Northeast Ohio Parent - July 2015

JULY 2015

FREE!

Family Living At Its Best CHOOSE A VACATION AWAY OR AN ISLAND GETAWAY

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HAVE A PARK ADVENTURE! OUTDOOR FUN MADE EASY WITH THESE GREAT SPOTS

FARM FRESH FOODS

+

TASTY RECIPES

90+

WAYS TO TURN UP THE HEAT THIS SUMMER!

NortheastOhioParent.com

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Family Living At Its Best

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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JULY NortheastOhioParent.com

features

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ISLANDS IN THE SUN

Join in the fun at Ohio’s islands. These popular destinations provide unique, family-friendly fun.

by Angela Zam

inside

Farm Fresh Foods

+ Tasty Recipes page 14

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departments

THE GREAT

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OUTDOORS

Ride, hike, walk and explore these city, county and national parks. There’s something for everyone.

WORTH NOTING Reading Room, Farmpark Anniversary and Baby Sleeping Tips

by Denise Koeth

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PARENT PICKS

Northeast Ohio Parent staff and bloggers provide a list of their summer hotspots around the region.

FAMILY HEALTH

Apps for parents to keep kids safe and track milestones.

11

BIKING ON THE TOWPATH TRAIL

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EDUCATION

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Helpful hints to help parents and their children battle the summer learning slide.

DISNEY PLANNING Make it a magical visit with these 12 Disney World travel tips.

30 AGES & STAGES Parents dish on parenting styles: “free-range,” or “helicopter parenting.”

by Sara Carnes

Don’t Navigate Pill Maze Alone Medication Management for Loved Ones

special

STAYING ACTIVE

Keep moving to stay healthy 48

Family Living At Its Best

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Summer Safety

COMMUNITY FOCUS: CUYAHOGA FALLS This city provides a unique small town, big city feel with amenities for all ages.

Features on health, home, support and events for your aging loved ones.

ON THE COVER: Cooper enjoys the Tudor Revival Playhouse at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens’ Playgarden in Akron, stanhywet.org.

Photography by Love Bug Photography, lovebugbycourtney.com

37 FAMILY CALENDAR

See what warm weather activities to enjoy, along with fair and festival happenings.

PHOTO BY TRICIA SCOTT, VISIT MICKEY VACATIONS

Contact Us ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: sales@northeastohioparent.com EDITORIAL SUGGESTIONS: editor@northeastohioparent.com

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Family Living At Its Best

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EDITOR’S

note

Keep Learning It’s time for families to head to vacation, play outdoors and complete home improvement projects — along with feel the freedom that summer brings.

While my little family will be enjoying all the sunshine and fun this month, we also plan to have some learning time, too.

My sons — and us, their parents — needed a break from the school routine. However, with a soon-to-be first-grader and third-grader, and the greater school expectations in the coming years, we want to ensure they stay ahead.

In this issue, we provide parents with ideas to help battle the commonly called “summer slide,” not just for elementary age, but for tweens and teens, as well (pg. 11).

Eating healthy is one of the ways to fuel the brain and there’s no better time than now to check out all the farmers markets happening around the region. Find out what your fresh picked choices are on pg. 14.

If your family is looking for a fun summer experience, we have plenty of options, both home and away. It begins in Ohio, whether traveling to your local park district (pg. 17) or taking a ferry to the islands (pg. 24). Or, find out how to take your adventure to Disney to the next magical level (pg.

22).

Northeast Ohio Parent staff and bloggers also had some ideas for hotspots around town. Check out where we like to explore starting on pg. 27.

I don’t know about you, but if I had to label my parenting style as “freerange” or “helicopter,” I would likely lean more toward “helicopter” — although I am working toward getting closer to the middle. We had local moms weigh in on what style fits with their families on (pg. 30).

Also, in this issue, we included some health tips — from phone apps to sleep environments for infants — that will help keep your kids safe.

Finally, with my kids reaching new heights in growth and milestones, I too, am still learning as a parent.

I just hope I can keep up!

VOL. NO. 2 • ISSUE NO. 7

July 2015 Northeast Ohio Parent is a property of Mitchell Media LLC PO Box 1088 Hudson, OH 44236 330-822-4011 • NortheastOhioParent.com / NEOhioParent

/ NEOhioParent

PUBLISHER - Brad Mitchell

brad@northeastohioparent.com 330-714-7712 EDITORIAL:

EDITOR - Angela Gartner

angela@northeastohioparent.com 216-536-1914 MANAGING EDITOR - Denise Koeth

denise@northeastohioparent.com EDITORIAL SUGGESTIONS:

editor@northeastohioparent.com CALENDAR LISTING SUBMISSIONS:

calendar@northeastohioparent.com CONTRIBUTORS:

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Sherry Lundberg sherry@northeastohioparent.com ADVERTISING SALES:

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July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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WORTH

noting

SLEEP LIKE A BABY (SAFELY)

Watching your baby sleep is a cherished memory, however, for some, this moment can turn into a nightmare.

According to the Ohio Department of Health, three babies

die in unsafe sleep environments each week in the state, with 819 infant deaths from 2007-11. “Sleep-related infant deaths occur suddenly and unexpectedly in a sleep environment,” the state released. “Sixty percent of these sleeprelated deaths occur in adult beds, couches or chairs. This is the leading cause of death between one month and one year of age.” To help educate parents, grandparents and other caregivers, Ohio has launched the campaign “The ABCs of Safe Sleep: Alone. Back. Crib. Every Baby, Every Sleep.” Here are some tips to keep your baby safe while sleeping:

Bare crib is best.

Don’t place bumper pads, blankets, pillows and stuffed animals in crib. Babies can suffocate on any extra item in the crib. Place your baby to sleep in a safety-approved crib with a firm mattress covered by a fitted sheet. Sleep clothing like fitted, appropriate-sized sleepers and sleep sacks are safer for baby than blankets.

Back is best for baby.

Always put your baby to sleep on his back.

Healthy babies naturally swallow or cough up their spit up, so your baby will not choke if he’s on his back.

It’s also safer for your baby to wake up often during the night on his back.

Share the room, not the bed. Always place

Break from back: Give your baby “tummy time” when she is awake and someone is watching.

“Tummy time” helps prevent flat spots on your baby’s head and also helps their head, neck and shoulder muscles get stronger.

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Family Living At Its Best

your baby alone in a crib, bassinet or play yard with a firm mattress. The safest place for your baby to sleep is in your room (within arm’s reach such as in a bassinet). This way, you can easily breastfeed and bond with your baby. Never nap on a couch or chair while holding your baby and don’t lay your baby down on adult beds, chairs, sofas, waterbeds, air mattresses, pillows or cushions.

For more information and tips, visit safesleep.ohio.gov

READING ROOM Hooray for Hat!

By Brian Won

preschooler Friendship (and some jaunty accessories) offers the cure for a common complaint: grumpiness. After Elephant wakes up on the wrong side of the bed, he opens his door to discover a gift box containing a stack of crazy, colorful hats. Donning the entire pile makes his bad mood vanish, so Elephant eagerly distributes the funky headgear to other grouchy friends. Recommendation courtesy of Avon Lake Public Library.

The Spy Catchers of Maple Hill

By Megan Frazer Blakemore school age In autumn of 1953, the poky town of Maple Hill, Vt., is rocked by rumors of a Russian spy in its midst, and brainy fifth-grade misfit Hazel decides that she’s just the sleuth to investigate. With the help of Samuel, the smart (but odd) new kid in town, Hazel does some spying of her own, starting with the suspicious new gravedigger, Mr. Jones. Can Hazel uncover the truth, or will her overactive imagination lead her astray? Recommendation courtesy of Avon Lake Public Library.

The Berenstain Bears’ Country Cookbook: Cub-Friendly Cooking with an Adult

By Mike Berenstain editor’s pick Spend time together by cooking up family-friendly fare with these 40 recipes. The book provides everything from meals to desserts, including stews, bear-themed muffins, lasagna and other simple foods. The book also encourages togetherness activities with kid-friendly cooking tips and easy food and measurement conversions. This becomes a great resource for families to gather around the kitchen and whip up fun at mealtimes.

25 YEARS OF FARMPARK Lake Metroparks had an idea to create a park that would provide a connection to an important part of Lake County’s cultural and natural history — farming. In 1987, Lake Metroparks’ park commissioners acquired a horse farm in Kirtland that they felt would serve as a suitable park. In 1989, the concept of Farmpark was set on the path of providing modern Americans with a connection to not only the farming past, but the present and possibly the future. Since opening on May 19, 1990, families with very young children have been a major part of the park’s visitation. Farmpark continues to provide a place where folks can go on a daily basis to gain an appreciation of where our food comes from. Learn about the 25th anniversary plans, including stories of families who have gone through generations of visiting the park, at lakemetroparks. com. ­ — Andy Baker, Farmpark Administrator July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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FAMILY

health

TeenSafe for iPhone $14.95 monthly subscription

The service allows parents to remotely monitor their teens’ device location, view texts and call logs, and see Facebook and Instagram activity. teensafe.com

KidSafe Alert App

FREE • The Hot Car Alert feature

warns caregivers when a child is left in a stationary car.

The app also offers the latest news on child and family safety, including product recalls. kidsafealert.com

PARENTING -TITUDE

App

Do you wonder if yo u’ve installed your child’s car seat correctly or if they are reaching their developmental miles tones?

Do you want to make

sure

your teens are safe wi th

their smartphones? Here are some apps made just for parents to

track of some importa nt

keep

safety and health informatio n.

Child Health Tracker $4.99 • Child Health Tracker

gives parents the power of on-demand access to their children’s health information, needs and providers, plus AAP guidance on the vaccinations and milestones that should be expected.

HealthyChildren.org

AppCertain

FREE • AppCertain emails

parents an alert for every app their child downloads, plus a quick analysis of the most popular apps. A Curfew Mode feature gives parents the ability to turn off all non-essential apps on an iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. appcertain.com

KidsDoc Symptom Checker

Food Additives 2 $3.99 • Avoid potentially

dangerous additives and see which ones are considered safe for kids. This application lets families easily access the general information of up to 450+ food additives. A self contained database, no WiFi is need. webartisan.com.au

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Family Living At Its Best

$1.99 • The care guides help parents make smart decisions on what level of care (if any) is needed and how to provide speedy symptom relief for minor illnesses or injuries that parents can manage on their own.

HealthyChildren.org

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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EDUCATION

corner

Battling the Summer Slide Do Children Really Lose Learning Over Break?

O

By Sara Baxter

ver the 10 weeks children aren’t in school, they lose an average of two months’ grade equivalency in math and a similar amount in reading, according to a report from the National Summer Learning Association.

Children from low income backgrounds may lose more.

There are simple things parents can do to combat lost learning and even prepare for the return to school in August.

You don’t need to use every suggestion, but choosing one or two that suit your child will help.

Kindle that are specifically for math practice, especially times tables.

Also check out sites like tenmarks.com, which offers a free summer math program. Children take a quick quiz and complete activities to reinforce understanding at the appropriate grade level.

Great Lakes Science Center and the University of Akron, in addition to other local resources, offer STEM camps for math and science with hands-on activities from the real world.

MATH

READING

Go shopping. Get children to help make the list and budget. Take a calculator and get them to add up items going in the cart. Ask questions like, “How much change you would get if…?” With younger children, play “shop” at home and make up simple prices for them to add up.

Find a book of problems and puzzles and use it for 10 minutes a day. Or use a free worksheet generator on the internet to create quick practice sheets for their grade level — education.com/worksheets is great for all subjects sorted by grade level.

There are dozens of free apps on Apple, Android, iOS and

Join your library’s summer reading program or you can follow the ABCs of reading: Access: Give children access to books. Make it a social activity where the whole family reads daily, even if only for 10 minutes. Leading by example speaks louder than words.

Books: Make sure books are at the right level. Librarians can help or use the Five Finger Rule — open any page and ask your child to read a couple paragraphs out loud. Each time they come to a word that’s too difficult, put up a finger.

Any more than five is too hard.

Comprehension: Ask about what they are reading. Get July July 2015 2015 •• NortheastOhioParent.com NortheastOhioParent.com

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EDUCATION

corner

them to recap the plot or describe a character, or they could do a review with a star rating.

GET OUTSIDE HELP

For an extra push, consider a tutor or academic coach.

Some schools offer enrichment programs or look online for resources.

“It’s particularly important for students with learning disabilities or attention deficit issues to remain on track during the summer, and The Tutoring Center specializes in helping these students,” says Rhoda Konigsberg owner and center director of The Tutoring Center.

Sylvan Learning Centers also offer summer programs and online tutoring. If you’re in the Akron area, check out Step

by Step Academic and Life Coaching (stepbystepcoaching. net). Or visit wcare.com or northcoasted.com.

If we don’t use a skill, it becomes rusty, or worse, we forget altogether. Employing simple techniques can help your children retain knowledge and skills, as well as help you structure their time.

Sara Baxter, BA, PGCE, CC, is an academic and life coach.

She is the owner and founder of Step by Step Academic and Life Coaching, located in Cuyahoga Falls.

SUMMER LEARNING IDEAS AT HOME AND IN YOUR COMMUNITY The following are some ways you can help your child learn during the summer months and send them back ready for the new school year from The National Summer Learning Association, a nonprofit exclusively focused on closing the achievement gap through high-quality summer learning for all children and youth.

KEEP A SUMMER JOURNAL.

Have your children keep a journal about the books they are reading, their favorite summer events or activities, and the new friends they’ve made. Take trips to your local museum, aquarium, zoo, park or nature center. Encourage kids to write about their trips in their summer journal.

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Family Living At Its Best

PLANT A GARDEN.

career options with your child. Visit college campuses. Connect your child with a mentor who works in a career that interests them.

Help them write a resume. Find a summer internship or job with websites like landme.org.

VOLUNTEER TOGETHER.

For more information, visit summerlearning.site-ym.com

Start simple with a tomato container garden or fresh herbs grown on your kitchen window sill. It’s a great way to encourage healthy eating with your child.

Volunteering builds life skills and compassion.

Help spruce up a school or local park, collect supplies for a shelter, or serve food at a soup kitchen.

TOP TIPS FOR TEENS AND TWEENS: PLAN A PROJECT.

Does your child want to give his or her room a new look? Have them sketch out design ideas, plan a budget, calculate the area needed for paint, price materials and manage a timeline.

MAKE IT SOCIAL.

Many tweens and teens want to spend free time with friends. Talk with the parents of your child’s friends and plan a group project or series of activities that involve reading, being outside to explore, or even brushing up on math through shopping, cooking or having a yard sale.

TALK ABOUT COLLEGE AND CAREER.

Summer is a great time to explore college and

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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FAMILY

eats

Local farmers markets are bursting with a bounty of food — and fun

by Denise Koeth ow that the summer season has made its official debut in Northeast Ohio, area farmers markets, are in full swing.

Not only are local markets great places to find the freshest food and unique handmade products, they also are great learning opportunities, both for children and adults.

“Shopping at the farmers market allows parents to make informed choices about

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Family FamilyLiving LivingAtAtItsItsBest Best

what they’re putting on the table and in their kids’ bellies,” says Heather Roszczyk, education and marketing manager for Countryside Conservancy (cvcountryside. org), organizer of the Countryside Farmers’ Market at Howe Meadow in Peninsula. “At a producers-only market…you buy the food directly from the person that raised, grew or made it, so you have the opportunity to talk with them and learn about their growing practices and ingredients.”

inSEASON options they are serving has been picked fresh and brought to the market quickly, not spending precious time on a truck traveling great distances,” adds Marcey Bryant, recreation coordinator for the city of Mentor, which hosts a weekly farmers market in Garfield Park (cityofmentor.com/play/mentormarket). “Also, many times the produce is less expensive than the grocery stores, when it is in season.”

The markets offer parents opportunities to teach healthy eating habits and set a good example of eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, according to Joe DeGaetano, vice president and general manager of Miles Farmers Market (milesfarmersmarket.com).

“You’re also teaching them how to pick out good, fresh produce — not picking up a package,” he adds.

“They’ll get to see vegetables as they look when harvested — carrots with their tops, Brussels sprouts on the stalk — and can meet the very farmer that grew them,” Roszczyk says. “They’ll also learn about diversity; at Countryside Farmers’ Market’s annual Tomato Tasting each August, over 30 varieties of tomatoes are available to sample, each with a unique appearance and flavor.

“It’s also fun to give your child a small amount of money to spend as they choose,” she adds. “With just $5, they can learn about budgeting, prioritizing desires and polite interactions with the vendors.”

Farmers markets offer more than just food, too.

“They often include events such as children’s activities, chef demos, live music and other activities that make markets more than just places to shop at,” according to a spokesperson for Gordon Square Market (gordonsquaremarket. org), which takes place every Wednesday in the Cleveland Public Theatre lot on Detroit Avenue. “Community partners often table at farmers markets, allowing parents and children to learn about organizations in their neighborhood and how they can become involved more with their community.”

With most markets open through September or October it’s time to get creative in the kitchen.

« When shopping

farmers markets, it’s best to plan your family’s meals around the available seasonal produce.

Pair the sustainablyraised meat, eggs and cheese found at most markets with the following fruits and vegetables. In July, expect to find beans, carrots, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, onions, peas, peppers, potatoes, squash and tomatoes. July also brings fruits like blackberries, cantaloupe, peaches, raspberries and strawberries.

Visit ourohio.org/food/whats-in-season for a monthly breakdown.

FARM to kitchen Looking for some inspiration for your fresh, seasonal produce? Here are two options.

´ INGREDIENTS:

1 lb. garlic scapes, cut into 1-inch chunks 1 C grated parmesan or romano cheese 1 C olive oil 1 T fresh lemon juice Sea salt and black pepper to taste Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth. This makes a great sauce for pasta and pizza.

Leftovers can be frozen.

SUBMITTED BY BIRDSONG FARM (birdsongfarmohio.com)

INGREDIENTS:

1 bunch fresh asparagus, medium to thin; trimmed and washed in cold water, then dried 2 tsp. olive oil 2 T roasted garlic cloves, roughly chopped 1 /4 C fresh oregano, roughly chopped 3 T toasted pine nuts 1/2 tsp. French sea salt (Fleur de sel) or quality salt In a 10- or 12-inch sauté pan, heat olive oil to moderately high heat and add asparagus. Sauté for 2 minutes, gently turning asparagus. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic. Sauté for 1 minute, then add pine nuts and oregano. Turn off heat. Place on serving plate. Season with salt just before serving.

SUBMITTED BY MILES FARMERS MARKET (milesfarmersmarket.com)

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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local MARKETS For more hours and addresses, visit NortheastOhioFamilyFun.com CUYAHOGA COUNTY

Crocker Park Market Through Dec. 19 Westlake Tremont Farmers Market Through Oct. 6 Frostville Farmers Market Through October, North Olmsted

Strongsville Farmers Market August through early October GEAUGA COUNTY

Geauga Fresh Farmers Market Through October, South Russell

LAKE COUNTY

MEDINA COUNTY

Willoughby Outdoor Market Through October

Medina Farmers Market Through Oct. 11

Mentor Farmers Market Through Sept. 25

PORTAGE COUNTY

LORAIN COUNTY

Haymaker Farmers Market Through October, Kent

Avon Lake Farmers Market Through September

Aurora Farmers Market Through Aug. 26 STARK COUNTY

Farmers Market of Massillon Through Oct. 3 Alliance Farmers Market Through Oct. 10 SUMMIT COUNTY

Copley Creekside Farmers Market Through Oct. 8 Hudson Farmers Market Through October, Village Green Tallmadge Farmers Market Through Oct. 15 Farmers Market in the Falls Through Oct. 2, Cuyahoga Falls

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COVER

story

THE GREAT

OUTD ORS In Northeast Ohio, there’s a park in every backyard

By Denise Koeth

From city and county parks to national recreation areas, Northeast Ohio is home to scores of opportunities for outdoor fun. No matter where you live, it’s likely there is a park close to home.

While we can’t list them all, below is a sampling of unique parks in each of Northeast Ohio’s counties. Enhance your family’s summer by visiting one — or all — of the parks below.

Stark County

Walborn Reservoir, part of the Stark County Park District (starkparks.com), encompasses more than 1,852 acres and provides the perfect escape for equestrians, hikers, anglers, canoeists and kayakers.

Quiet trails for hikers and horseback riders travel through pine woods, brushlands and oak and hickory forests throughout the park, which also offers a covered picnic shelter overlooking the shoreline of Walborn Reservoir, as well as a marina, fishing dock and boat launch.

Fishing at Sippo Lake Park

PHOTO COURTESY OF DALE ZUTAVERN

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

Cuyahoga County

From beaches to boat ramps, fitness trails to fishing piers, Lakefront Reservation is a true gem in the “Emerald Necklace” anchoring Cleveland Metroparks’ presence on the shores of Lake Erie. Edgewater Park, E. 55th Street Marina, Whiskey Island and Gordon Park comprise the new Lakefront Reservation (clevelandmetroparks.com).

Edgewater Park boasts 6,000 feet of shoreline — including Edgewater Beach, a 900-foot swimming beach — and features a playground, pavilions and one of the best views of downtown Cleveland. Anglers and boaters can take advantage of the 1,200foot fishing platform, eight transient docks and concession facility at the E. 55thSt. Marina. Whiskey Island, originally named for the distillery that was built on the land in the 1800s, includes a marina and Wendy Park, which provides the public direct access to Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River.

Part of an Audubon Important Birding Area, Gordon Park provides the best viewing for a large number of diverse and rare gulls and ducks, in addition to 1.3 miles of armored coastline and onshore fishing platforms.

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Lake County

Lake Metroparks’ 600-acre Lake Erie Bluffs (lakemetroparks.com) property in Perry Township protects a significant amount of wetland, meadow and mostly undeveloped lakefront habitat used by rare and common plant and animal species. The park, which features 40-foot high beach bluffs and open sandy and cobble beach across 9,000 feet of shoreline, offers fishing and hiking, with three scenic overlooks and beach access.Lake Erie Bluffs protects habitat used by many rare species, including bald eagles, so keep an eye out for wildlife while visiting.

Lorain County

Spanning two adjacent areas separated by the Vermilion River — Mill Hollow on one side and Bacon Woods on the other — Lorain County Metro Parks’ Vermilion River Reservation (metroparks.cc) offers plenty of open space, five miles of wooded trails, two playgrounds and two ponds.

The Park’s Benjamin Bacon Museum at Mill Hollow lets visitors walk through the original settler’s house, built in 1845.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

PHOTO BY LOVE BUG PHOTOGRAPHY

PARKS LEGACY « Connecting past and present has always been important for Akron’s Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens (stanhywet.org), which now features a Playgarden specially designed for children.

The fun-filled garden features six interactive experiences — including a splash fountain, kid-powered antique Model A truck, and archeological dig, among others — that are all tied to stories of the Sieberling family, whose patriarch F.A. Seiberling co-founded The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. The Playgarden also echoes the historical significance of Seiberling’s role in the creation of many local parks, including the Akron Metro Park District and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Sieberling, who was part of a small group of Akron leaders who lobbied the city to form the Akron Metropolitan Park District in 1921, believed that accessibility to clean, safe outdoor spaces created stability and happiness among community members.

With the creation of the Akron Metropolitan Park District, he took this philosophy one step further by donating 469 acres of his personal property on the west side of Akron as the foundation for Sand Run Park.

Geauga County Geauga Park District’s 1,100-acre Observatory Park (geaugaparkdistrict.org) allows people to explore nature from the ground to the galaxies, as it is one of only 15 designated “Dark Sky Parks” in the U.S. and 20 in the world. The park’s Robert McCullough Science Center features weekly planetarium shows; a meteorite display that includes a meteorite visitors can touch; and projection equipment for astronomy-related programming. Across the plaza, the Oberle Observatory has a partially retractable roof to allow direct sky viewing with the Newtonian reflector telescope. Observatory Park also features several other wonders, including a milelong Planetary Trail with interactive pods representing each planet; a Weather Trail with interactive stations representing ways to study weather; life-sized corner stones of the Great Pyramid of Giza; earthen mounds; henge stones; and woodland trails connecting the main campus with the soon-to-be-renovated Nassau Astronomical Observing Station.

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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FUN FOR ALL ABILITIES « Several area parks cater to children of all levels of abilities, including Preston’s H.O.P.E. (prestonshope. com), the largest fully accessible playground park in Northeast Ohio.

Located on the property of and operated by the Mandel Jewish Community Center in Beachwood, this massive public park features several areas, including Imagination Village, with make-believe houses that are connected by a raised walkway; a play theatre; sand area; and areas with swings, tunnels and slides.

The park was built with many custom-designed elements to accommodate youngsters with mobility issues, vision or hearing impairments.

Lorain County Metroparks’ Inclusive Playground located at the Hollstein Reservation combines water play, structured play and natural play.

The playground provides an opportunity for people with special needs and all families to get connected with each other. The park has swings that are wheelchair accessible, a sensory village, a stocked fishing pond that can be used by all abilities, and a variety of different play areas that accommodate people with special needs.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park The Cuyahoga Valley National Park (nps.gov/cuva) protects nearly 33,000 acres and receives more than 2.2 million recreational visits each year, making it one of the most-visited national parks in the United States. Amazingly, it’s right in our backyard, letting locals take a hike, ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, explore the visitor centers, attend a concert, or bike the Towpath Trail. The park is home to 20 miles of the Towpath Trail, which follows the historic Ohio & Erie Canal route. The fully accessible trail features picnic areas, restrooms and train access points along the way. Through Oct. 31, the park’s Bike Aboard! program allows riders to bike the Towpath Trail in one direction, then hop on the train for a relaxing ride back.

Biking on the Towpath Trail CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

Next to the museum, the Carriage Barn offers information about the park and hosts nature programs throughout the year. The Bacon Woods area of Vermilion River Reservation is home to a nine-hole public Disc Golf course, as well as an amphitheater for musical concerts during warmer months.

Medina County

Medina County Park District’s Alderfer-Oenslager Wildlife Sanctuary/ Wolf Creek Environmental Center

Wildlife Sanctuary/ Wolf Creek Environmental Center

(medinacountyparks.com) houses an environmental education center among its 248 acres of mature forests, wetlands, meadows and prairies. The education center hosts park district nature programs that offer handson experiences in the study of the environment.

The Wolf Creek Educational Wetlands, a project that recreated roughly four acres of marsh ecosystem, has a boardwalk permitting visitors to travel “into” the wetland for study and wildlife viewing, while a deep-water pond provides opportunities for pond study.

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Family Living At Its Best

Portage County

Towner’s Woods, part of the Portage Park District (portageparkdistrict.org), features picnic shelters, a gazebo, sledding hills, hiking trails, access to the Portage Hike & Bike Trail, and the historic Brady Interlocking Railroad Tower.

The property consists of 234 rolling acres of mixed forests, diverse wetlands and meadows in Franklin and Ravenna townships. Foot trails throughout the park provide hiking options ranging from easy to strenuous, as well as renowned crosscountry skiing through beautiful natural scenery and varied habitats.

Summit County

Summit Metro Parks’ 104-acre Nature Realm (summitmetroparks.org) includes a 10,000-square-foot visitors center with exhibits, kids’ areas, live animals and a gift shop featuring educational and locallymade items. The park’s grounds showcase a suspension bridge over a 45-foot-deep ravine, several gardens, plant identification, observation decks, two ponds, wetlands, hiking trails and a tall-grass prairie.

Just remember dogs are not permitted, since the park is a special-use area that has been set aside for the study and enjoyment of nature.

Watch for bald eagles and other rare species – check park websites.

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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1

USE A DISNEY TRAVEL AGENT. Disney pays these agents a commission, making them free for you.

They give you great tips, in addition to making all your reservations, including hotel, fast pass and dining plus.

2

BRING A BACKPACK & STROLLER.

Even if your kids are a little out of the “stroller age,” bring it because you’ll be walking a lot.

I also always carry a small backpack so I can have water, Advil and any other necessities handy.

3

PARK HOPPER?

Having a Park Hopper upgrade on your ticket allows you to visit different parks in the same day. We plan for visiting one park a day on our trip. However, if you happen to see a special offer or upgrade for this perk, snatch it up. It’s nice to have the option.

DISNEY G N I N N A L P MADE PERFECT

6 4

GETTING THERE. To save money, we usually drive to Disney. It’s about 16 hours from Cleveland to Orlando. If you’re on a budget, this option really isn’t that bad. Bring some games and make a fun family road trip out of it.

5

PICK YOUR SPOT.

If you drive to the parks, remember where you park. Take a picture of where you parked using your phone. We forgot once and looked for our car for an hour. Let’s just say we won’t let that happen again.

STAY AT A DISNEY WORLD RESORT.

We’ve done our vacations multiple ways, from staying at a condo or hotel offproperty to staying at one of Disney’s resorts. There are many perks, including Extra Magic Hours (early entry and extended hours for Disney property guest only), early access to Disney dining reservations, and more. Three levels of lodging — deluxe, moderate and value — are designed to fit different budgets. We’ve stayed at all three levels and have been happy at each. Do your own research online or have your travel agent help you decide what your needs are and what would be the best fit for your family.

isney 12 Tips for D imers World First-T

by Sara Carnes

M-i-c … k-e-y … M-o-u-s-e!

Did you start singing the song in your head as you read those letters? There’s something magical and happy about those letters and that mouse. That’s why so many families look forward to planning their family trip to Disney World each year. First off, I have to say I got really lucky and married someone just as crazy about Disney as me — my husband and I collectively have been to Disney World nearly 50 times in our lifetimes. We’ve both been going since we were kids with our families, and now we love to take our own children. With four theme parks, two water parks, Downtown Disney and more, planning a Disney trip can seem like a daunting and expensive task — but it doesn’t have to be. Here are 12 tips for a

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magical and budget-friendly Disney trip, from our family to yours.

Family Living At Its Best

PHOTO BY TRICIA SCOTT, VISIT MICKEY VACATIONS

EAT BREAKFAST IN YOUR ROOM.

7

We’re fine with eating a smaller meal in our room for breakfast. Keep it light. We bring food, or my hubby will run to the hotel lobby and get smaller items for us to eat quickly.

8

MEET & GREET. If you have smaller kids, reserve at least one character dining experience. This is a perfect opportunity for the kids to talk, mingle and get an up-close look at the princesses and other Disney characters.

with Sleeping Beauty

9

GET TO THE PARKS EARLY FOR “ROPE DROP.” One of our favorite parts about arriving early at the Magic Kingdom is the welcome show where they sing the “Good Morning Song” and Mickey and the gang arrive on the train.

If you want to experience shorter lines, cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, get there early. We typically can get in between five and 10 rides the first hour the park is open.

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DISNEY DINING PLAN. Talk to your travel agent or do your research regarding what’s best for your family. It does make things very easy and adds more of an all-inclusive feel during your trip, but it could end up costing you more than just buying your own meals.

For a more in-depth look at dining plan strategies, visit: visitmickeyvacations.com/ disney-dining-plans.html

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BRING YOUR OWN SOUVENIRS.

You’ll save a ton of money by bringing your own souvenirs from the dollar store or department store. Leave them in your room with a note from Tinkerbell, so when the family arrives back after a day at the parks, the kids are surprised with their “magical gifts from Tinkerbell.”

10

RIDER SWAP. If you have smaller kids, utilize the unadvertised amenity called “Rider Swap” on rides the whole family isn’t able to ride. Rider Swap allows a parent to ride with the older children while the other parent waits with the younger ones. After the older children ride, the parents swap places and they ride again. Inquire with each ride’s cast member.

Family Selfie!

Sara Carnes is co-host of the Family Friendly Morning Show with Len Howser weekdays from 6-9 a.m. on 95.5 The Fish.

She and her husband Russ are raising their two daughters, Makayla and Reagan, right here in Northeast Ohio.

PHOTO BY TRICIA SCOTT, VISIT MICKEY VACATIONS

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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ISLANDS SUN IN THE

Summer adventures await your family at Lake Erie’s islands

by Angela Zam

P

ut-in-Bay and Kelleys Island have earned a reputation for fun over the years – playing host to countless

bands, bachelorettes and boaters among the many watering holes and eateries that line the streets. However, the Lake Erie islands are more than just adult playgrounds. Whether your family is into outdoor adventure, snapping selfies or taking a look back in time, the islands have something for you.

“I think it’s very family-friendly, especially during the week,” says Tara Nilson, a teacher and mom of four from Avon Lake. “My kids love it over there.”

FamilyLiving LivingAtAtItsItsBest Best 24 24 Family

CONTINUED ON PAGE 26

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

Nilson’s parents own a Put-in-Bay hotel and she her family spend a lot of time on the island each summer.

“They love golf cart rides. I can’t tell you how many times they’ve fallen asleep in the golf cart,” she says.

Cabs, carts, bikes and scooters are available for a fee on both islands to help you get out and explore. And although there are countless ways to spend a day on the islands, here are some of the best bets for families of all ages and interests.

To really start at the beginning, visit Kelleys Island Glacial Grooves Geological Preserve on the north side of the island.

The 400-foot-long grooves were cut into the limestone by ice that covered North America 18,000 years ago. The site contains marine fossils ranging from 350 to 400 mil-

Crystal Cave

PHOTO BY LAURA WATILO BLAKE

lion years old and is viewable from a walkway, stairs and footbridge. Admission is free and the site is open during daylight hours.

On the other side of Kelleys Island is Inscription Rock, which features symbols engraved by American Indians sometime between 1200 and 1600 A.D. The petroglyphs on a slab of limestone are on display under a protected roof and are accessible daily. For information on the grooves or the engravings, visit ohiohistory.org.

Another popular attraction for the historically inclined is the U.S. Brig Niagara, the flagship of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry during the Battle of Lake Erie in 1813. The giant ship will visit Put-in-Bay harbor each year through 2020 on the third weekend in June, docking in the shadow of Perry’s Victory & International

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Family Living At Its Best

PHOTO COURTESY OF PUT IN BAY PARASAIL

Peace Memorial. Visit flagshipniagara.org and nps.gov/pevi.

Each Sunday on Put-in-Bay, islanders and visitors alike celebrate history with an antique car parade. The 20-year-old tradition starts at 2 p.m. and features different cars each week. For more information, visit putinbaycarparade.com.

If the view from land isn’t good enough, check out the scenery from the sky at Put in Bay Parasail (putinbayparasail.com) or head underground to tour one of South Bass Island’s caves. Crystal Cave — found under Heineman’s Winery — is the world’s largest geode (heinemanswinery.com) and also offers parents a chance to sample some of the adult fun on the island. Just across the street is Perry’s Cave — home to a rare underground lake and a full complement of family fun attractions including a giant maze, rock wall, miniature golf and the chance to pan for gemstones and fossils. Also on site and a must for selfie-lovers: The Butterfly House, home to more than 50 varieties of the colorful creatures.

“The kids love the Butterfly House and the Crystal Cave and the Maze,” Nilson says.

“It’s nice because it’s all in one general area.”

Another favorite of the Nilson clan: DeRivera Park in downtown Put-in-Bay, which features play structures, cannons and a public bathroom and shower facility complete with lockers for rent.

“Of course the park is everybody’s favorite place,” Nilson says. “Hanging out in the park and getting your picture taken sitting on the cannon is always a favorite.”

When posting your pics online, don’t forget #lakeerielove, a campaign by Lake Erie Shores & Islands to promote the area and share images from visitors and islanders alike. The group’s website, shoresandislands.com, offers plenty of information for planning a trip to the region.

Photo courtesy of Lake Erie Shores and Islands

There are three ferries that service Putin-Bay and Kelleys Island. Each boat ride is approximately 20 minutes and each boat offers guests the chance to sit indoors or out.

Ages 5 and younger ride free on each.

The Jet Express (jet-express.com) offers ferry service for passengers and bicycles from docks in downtown Sandusky and Port Clinton to Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island, as well as back and forth between the two islands.

The Miller Boat Line (millerferry.com) offers ferry service for passengers, bicycles and vehicles from Catawba Island (Port Clinton) to Put-in-Bay, as well as Middle Bass Island.

The Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line (kelleysislandferry.com) offers service for passengers, bicycles and vehicles from Marblehead to Kelleys.

You also can enhance your island trip with a sunset cruise, sightseeing excursion or overnight liveaboard boat rental from Moon & Back Getaways (moonandbackgetaways. com). Services are offered in Sandusky, Put-in-Bay, Kellys Island and Middle Bass Island.

LEARNING FUN:

RELAXING LOCAL SUMMER GETAWAY FOR THE FAMILY:

GET ACTIVE:

Place to Learn About Safety

Biking Adventure

Lakeside Ohio

DENISE KOETH, MANAGING EDITOR

ANGELA GARTNER, EDITOR

Firehouses around the region are great places for kids to learn about fire safety — and parents can learn something, too. If your boy or girl is interested in getting a close-up look at the different trucks or equipment, stop by your local fire station. There also are several annual “Touch-a-Truck” events.

These provide kidfriendly interactions with all types of large vehicles, plus family entertainment and fun.

BRAD MITCHELL, PUBLISHER

We love the Towpath Trail — it’s smooth and wide, which is perfect for the pull-behind trailer in which our son rides. Some of our favorite stops are Brandywine Falls and Peninsula, Szalay’s Farm and the Mustill Store.

PICKS FOR

Life simplified.

It’s a step back in time and likely the most stress-free vacation you can imagine. Since our kids were little, we’ve spent at least a week each summer at this picturesque cottage community on the Marblehead peninsula. While others may choose a thrilling day at Cedar Point, I prefer to walk the lakefront path, play shuffleboard, enjoy Patio Donuts and take in a free nightly show at Hoover auditorium. If you long for a real break from the fastpaced lifestyle we’ve grown accustomed to, check out lakesideohio.com.

SUMMER CONCERT IN THE PARK:

Wade Oval Wednesdays KRISTEN KELLY, NORTHEAST OHIO PARENT BLOGGER

Wednesday evenings through Aug. 26, Wade Oval is filled with music, dancing, food and family fun. University Circle from 6-9 p.m. Each week features a different band or familyfriendly movie on select evenings.

Lock 3 and Lock 4 in Downtown Akron JANYSE HEIDY, SALES STAFF

Lock 3, located on Main Street, and Lock 4, off of Bowery Street, provide free concerts through Sept. 2. Check schedule for details.

Up the ante on your summer now — through the eyes and experiences of the Northeast Ohio Parent staff. It’s our turn to choose some places to try for parents, by parents.

PLACE TO WATCH THE SUNSET:

Lakefront Lodge SHERRY LUNDBERG, AD PRODUCTION MANAGER

One of my family’s favorite things to do on a summer evening is go to Lakefront Lodge in Willowick and watch the sunset.

This park overlooks Lake Erie and has beautiful unobstructed views.

If we have the kids with us, we pick up ice cream or a pizza to eat while we wait. The park has picnic tables and swings; or you can bring your own chairs and blankets to enjoy the “show.” It is also a romantic place for couples!

Monroe’s Orchard & Farm Photo by Kristen Gough

FRESH FOOD PICK:

Monroe’s Orchard & Farm

KRISTEN GOUGH, CONTRIBUTOR

Fresh, bright red strawberries line the rows of fields at Monroe’s Orchard & Farm. We like to spend the day filling our baskets with strawberries we picked ourselves and then gobbling up handfuls on our way home. With our leftovers, we make strawberry shortcake, strawberry smoothies, and chop some to freeze and eat once the weather turns cold again.

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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SUMMER DINING:

Scoot in for a Dog ANGELA GARTNER, EDITOR

Whether you went to the pool or the local beaches around town — Headlands Beach or Fairport Harbor LakeFront Park — Scooters Dawg House provides an array of fare for the whole family.

There are more than 15 hotdog flavors on the menu from classic selections to speciality dogs. For those who don’t dig dogs, there’s a variety of sandwich options.

Top your picnic off with something sweet!

MARIE ELIUM, CONTRIBUTOR

Frozen Dee Lite is an ice cream stand and restaurant with an indoor eating area — and the best frozen custard in Geauga County.

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Family Living At Its Best

PARENT’S NIGHT OUT

Sarah’s Vineyard CHRIS GEER, SALES STAFF

Located directly across from Blossom Music Center, Sarah’s Vineyard is a favorite spot for my wife and I to spend some adult time. (It's also a great stop before a show at Blossom.) Its new open air structure provides a great rustic environment to taste wines while enjoying summer weather. You can bring your picnic basket or order one of Sarah’s wood-fired pizzas; there’s no chicken fingers on the menu here.

STROLLER-FRIENDLY FUN:

Art Museums DENISE KOETH, MANAGING EDITOR

While you might not think noisy toddlers and the peaceful atmosphere of an art museum are a good mix, I’ve found both the Cleveland Museum of Art (11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, clevelandart.org) and the Akron Art Museum (1 S. High St., Akron, akronartmuseum.org) to be great destinations. The Akron Art Museum offers unique classes for children of all ages, including the “Art Babes” series for babies 18 months and younger. At the Cleveland Museum of Art, when my young son gets restless after a stroller ride through the galleries, I spend the rest of our visit in Studio Play, which has hands-on, interactive activities and a plethora of unique toys.

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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When Parenting Styles

COLLIDE

The debate over free-range children

vs.

helicopter parents

M

By Denise Koeth

aking parenting decisions is never easy, especially when it comes to choosing between conflicting advice, opinions and practices.

Recently in the national media, a debate has been swirling over the concept of “free-range” kids — those who are allowed freedom to roam and be independent.

On the other side of the coin, a “helicopter parent” pays extremely close attention to his or her children in almost all situations, thusly named because of the tendency to “hover.”

When local parents weighed in on the issue, it became clear that no two parenting styles are exactly the same — and that it’s rare to find a parent who identifies 100 percent with either free-range or helicopter, as most are a healthy mix of the two.

Below, several parents share their views on the topic and how they choose which freedoms to allow their children.

FREE RANGE, WITH LIMITS

Those who fall on the free-range side of the spectrum cite the importance of raising independent children.

“We live on a 13-acre farm, so ‘free-range’ is quite literal in our house,” says Jackie Bebenroth, of Brecksville.

She explains that while she allows her children certain freedoms — her 8-year-old daughter stays home alone during quick errand runs, for example — rules and expectations are laid out in advance and must be followed.

“I don’t believe in people allowing their kids to roam free without ensuring they have the right rules in place,” Bebenroth says. “We can teach our children tools to allow them these freedoms — like how to act in public, or how to cross the street after looking both ways.”

As an example, Bebenroth lets her daughter, along with her 6-year-old son, help her grocery shop by giving them a cart and a portion of her grocery list. The two are allowed to go a few aisles away, find what’s on the list, and then check back with their mother about every 10 minutes.

“They understand they have this freedom because they are well-behaved and because they follow rules, like staying together and coming back to check with me,” she adds. “It’s very different from letting your kids roam the grocery store.”

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Family Living At Its Best

While Bebenroth is confident in her free-range approach, she has felt judgment from other parents.

Her sister, who has three children, doesn’t feel comfortable allowing Bebenroth to watch her kids long-term because “our concept of risk is much different than her own.”

“Parenting approaches are very personal; anytime you’re making decisions based on your values, it does become a hot button issue,” she adds. “I have gotten into arguments (in which) I’ve tried to get other parents to understand that we allow our children to roam free because doing so allows them the chance to make smart decisions as they grow older.”

Michelle Arwood, of Valley City, has three daughters, ages 13, 20 and 23.

While she identifies as a free-range parent, there were — and still are — situations when her kids were growing up in which she placed some restrictions.

“One thing I’ve always been careful about is seeing the kids get on the school bus,” she notes. “Even now, I don’t let my youngest daughter wait for the bus alone at the end of our really long driveway.”

In general, Arwood describes her parenting style as “laid back,” letting her daughters handle issues with friends or classmates on their own.

“When my oldest was 11, we sent her to a babysitting course,” she recalls. “After that, we would leave her for short spurts with the two younger ones. We knew she could call our cell phones if she needed anything, and we would be close by.”

When her older girls started driving, Arwood eventually learned to let go of her worry — which was helped along by requiring her children to answer their cell phones when she called.

“If I was to worry every time the girls took the car somewhere, I’d never let them out of my sight,” she says. “Part of them growing up is becoming independent and eventually living on their own.

The worry never ends, but kids need freedom and independence.”

Conn’s younger son, now 10, was able to walk or ride his bike to a friend’s house in the neighborhood at age 8. Currently, she requires an adult to be present if he is at a friend’s house, though he is allowed to stay home with his older brother.

Now that her 16-year-old is driving, communication is a key factor.

“I tell him my concerns and we have an open dialog,” she says. “I tell him, ‘You’re allowed to go, but this is what I expect; if you don’t abide by these rules, my trust will be broken and you won’t be allowed these privileges.’”

Patty Mutti, who lives in Strongsville and has five children ranging in age from 11 to 17, says she is “trying not to be a helicopter parent.”

“Some things about technology are good — the kids are able to touch base when they leave or arrive places,” she explains. “But I require them to check in and when they don’t, it leads me to be a helicopter parent without even realizing it.”

She and her husband have purposefully given their children a lot of responsibilities to prepare them for adulthood.

“It changes and increases as they get older, but as soon as my kids are in school they have chores,” Mutti says.

“When my kids turn 16, they get jobs and have credit cards.”

As far as deciding when to allow certain freedoms and privileges, she follows her kids’ leads.

“If they’re asking me to do something — go to the neighborhood playground or borrow the car — I try to allow them because that means they think they’re ready,” Mutti says. “If they’re asking and they haven’t given me any reason to not trust them, and I’m comfortable with them doing it, I kind of let them guide me regarding when they’re ready for it.”

Mutti feels social media is partly to blame for the free-range vs. helicopter debate.

“When my parents were raising us, they did it the way they thought was best and no one bothered them about it,” she recalls. “Today, it seems people tweet or express every emotion or thought they have. We need to help and support other parents in whatever stage they’re at, not judge them.”

MORE ON THE PROTECTIVE SIDE

For some parents, it’s more challenging to let go — and to let their children roam.

Suzanne Conn, of Medina, admits she was “very overprotective” with her first child, but became more laid back after having a second. “Once I get to know the situation and I’m comfortable with it, then it’s okay,” she notes.

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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COMMUNITY

focus

7 Reasons Our Family Loves Living in

Cuyahoga Falls

by Jessica Walters

Water Works Aquatic Center - Park

Keyser Barn

Cuyahoga Falls Library

Water Works Aquatic Center

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Family Living At Its Best

W

e have lived in Cuyahoga Falls for about nine years now. I grew up roughly 30 minutes from here, in a more rural setting. I’ve never lived in a big, bustling city like Cleveland — though I do visit often.

I’ve grown to love living here in Cuyahoga Falls. While I enjoy the culture and excitement of the big city and the scenery of country living, I have found the perfect combination of both.

Let me share with you what I tell friends and acquaintances who consider moving here or pay a visit.

1.

IT IS A FAMILY COMMUNITY. There are countless activities and venues for all ages. The Cuyahoga Falls library (2015 3rd St.), Riverfront Square District, the Natatorium, Quirk Cultural Center, and our YMCA are all great places to start.

The library offers reading programs with incentives and special events for both young and old — along with a good number of lending materials and online resources.

Riverfront Square District hosts a summer concert series on Friday nights, “Flicks in the Falls” family movies, the Riverfront Car Cruise-in, the giant interactive water fountain for playing and cooling down, an ice skating rink in win-

ter, along with many unique shops and restaurants. Enjoy the scenic views of the boardwalk while you’re down there.

The Natatorium (2345 4th St.) features an enormous indoor tree sculpture (my daughter’s favorite spot in town) for climbing, sliding and playing. Additional offerings at the Natatorium include a large pool, winding water slides, warm therapy pool, swimming lanes, an indoor track, two floors of weight and exercise machines and several rooms for community meetings and special events.

The Quirk Cultural Center (1201 Grant Ave.) hosts many events and classes for the community — everything from ballroom dancing, pottery, bingo for seniors, annual rummage sales, fundraisers and more. A favorite activity of mine at the Quirk property is the Farmer’s Market.

Families can always find fun at the YMCA (544 Broad St.) Which is always busy with gymnastics, tumbling, indoor rock climbing, various classes, and as you’d expect, many exercise and weight machines.

Once you live here, you’ll likely feel as though you have an extended family comprised of our community. It’s not uncommon to encounter classmates and others I’ve met before while being out and about for entertainment or errands.

2.

THE CUYAHOGA FALLS CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT has been very good to us so far, and I hear great things from parents of older children. Parents are highly involved in volunteering and supporting the staff. I know several people who currently teach here, and I’d be ecstatic if my daughter ends up having any of them as teachers in the future.

For families that would like private school options, there are many to choose from, as well.

3.

PARKS, PLAYGROUNDS, AND WADING POOLS. Nearly one fifth of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park system’s 33,000 acres is right here — that’s more than 6,000 acres in which to explore and experience the unique activities and scenery each of Ohio’s four seasons has to offer.

The CVNP is one of the most visited parks in the country, and stands out because of the variety of things to do and see all year.

Several playgrounds, shelters and wading pools serve as perfect meeting spots and party locations.

4.

ABUNDANT SHOPPING AND DINING OPTIONS. Portage Crossing is the latest addition to our fair city.

Included are a Giant Eagle Market District, LA Fitness, Cinemark movie theater, BurgerFi (the scene of a recent LeBron James sighting), Aladdin’s Eatery, Chipotle and more.

Within the Falls River Square District you’ll find antique stores, art galleries, vintage shops and restaurants such as Burntwood Tavern, Beau’s Grille on the River (inside Sheraton Suites), Hibachi Japan and Firehouse Grille and Pub, among many other options.

5.

BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER. This outdoor music and entertainment venue (1145 W. Steels Corners Road) holds more than 19,000 people — in the covered pavilion, 5,700 seats are available, and an additional 13,500 spaces are available on the sloped lawn. In the summer months, Blossom is home to the Cleveland Orchestra. For orchestra performances, children ages 18 and younger receive free admission with one paid adult admission.

6.

WATER WORKS AQUATIC CENTER. This park (2025 Munroe Falls Ave.) features numerous slides, a lazy river, rentable poolside cabanas, picnic tables and grills, and a large sand play area. Residents of Cuyahoga Falls receive significantly discounted rates for daily admission and season passes.

7.

ANNUAL EVENTS. Throughout the year, there are many events that allow the opportunity for creating great family memories and getting to know others within the city. Some of the annual events include the Mom Prom, Daddy and Daughter Dance, Easter Egg Hunt and the Summer Solstice Festival at Sarah’s Vineyard. There are just too many to list them all. For more event listings visit cityofcf.com

The Falls River Square Amphitheatre July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

33

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Cuyahoga Falls

D

ue to conflicting work schedules, my husband Gregg and I see very little of each other throughout the week, so we make sure that our date nights are frequent and fun.

We prefer interactive dates such as dining, miniature golf at Downview Golf Course or walks along the boardwalk that trails along the Cuyahoga River.

Beau’s on the River, which is located at the Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls, has an incredible buffet breakfast on the weekends and offers stunning views of the river rapids and falls with floor to ceiling window. It’s also the site where our wedding was celebrated and we have many good memories over the years of walks along the river. ​We started our date night with an amazing lobster

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Family Living At Its Best

By Janyse Heidy

bisque soup, but we were tempted by our charming waitress Julie to try the mozzarella cheese sticks.

I’ve never tasted a better cheese stick, a result of rolling the cheese in Italian bread b ​ efore gently frying. ​ I had the Lobster Strozzopretti, and Gregg had the Grilled Halibut on Forbidden Rice. We topped off dinner with ice cream and a slice of their Key lime pie.​ The downtown area offers many festivities throughout the summer.

After dinner, we walked through the cruise-in, with antique cars and hot rods parking amongst the quaint shops in the Riverfront area. Holding hands while we walked, we reflected on why we fell in love and cherished another happy date night.

From the Mayor’s Desk

By Angela Gartner

Why is Cuyahoga Falls a destination for families to live or visit?

“We are a city of 50,000; we have a big enough tax base for all the things we offer (such as the fitness center, water park, recreation programs, etc.), but we are still small enough where I will see (residents) at the grocery store — we get the best of both worlds,” says Cuyahoga Falls Mayor Don Walters.

“We have all different price points in our housing market and provide one of the lowest utility costs in Northern Ohio,” he adds. “There is easy accessibility to our city from Route 8 and we have a direct connection (to highways), so whether someone works in Cleveland or Canton, they still have quick access to Cuyahoga Falls.”

Walters says the city also has a great natural resource that is open to recreational water sports like kayaking and canoeing. The city received a Cooperative Boating Facility Grant through the Ohio Division of Natural Resources — Division of Watercraft for the construction of a boat launch facility at River Front Park. This will provide waterway options for both amateur and professional-level paddlers. Walters noted professional kayakers will be able to enjoy class 5 rapids in the Cuyahoga River. This also will help navigate travel and tourism for the city.

The city’s slogan, “Life is better here,” can mean different things to different people, according to Walters, who adds, “I am very proud of everything we have. Our city has programs that benefit all ages.”

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

35

COMMUNITY FOCUS

Cuyahoga Falls

BuzzWorthy BUSINESSES

by Jessica Walters

BLUE DOOR CAFE & BAKERY At this one-of-a-kind fine dining experience, nearly everything is made in-house from scratch. All ingredients are very carefully selected and mindfully procured. You would be hard-pressed to find a more unique and delicious experience. Breakfast and lunch served Wednesday through Sunday. Reservations recommended for Friday and Saturday evenings. 1970 State Road, 330-926-9774, bluedoorcafebakery.com

FALLS HARDWARE While it’s reminiscent of a small town store — complete with a cash register that’s nearly 100 years old — don’t let the storefront fool you. The shop carries a variety of goods and can order nearly anything that isn’t in stock. The decades of experience offered by the staff is unmatched. 2413 State Road, 330-928-4414

METROPOLIS POPCORN The shop features more than 50 flavors of gourmet popcorn that gets its start in the fields right here in Ohio. Located on the Riverfront, the store is open for extended hours during Riverfront festivals. 2164 Riverfront Pkwy., 330-928-6446, popohio.com

RETRO DOG An unusual spot to visit, the old-fashioned drive-up burger and hot dog place also has amazing shakes and fries. 350 E. Steels Corners Road, 330-928-3500, retrodog.com

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Family Living At Its Best

SARAH’S VINEYARD WINERY Indoor and outdoor seating is available at this winery, which grows nine varieties of grapes among its beautiful surroundings. The building features a gift shop, as well as a loft for special events. 1204 W. Steels Corners Road, 330-929-8057 sarahsvineyardwinery.com

SUGAR LUV Delightful sweets are handmade in small batches. Try a slice of the “heaven bar,” as it definitely lives up to its name.

This also is a fun place to take children to let them pick out a special treat. 410 Chestnut Blvd., 330-474-9869, sugar-luv.com

VILLAGE GARDENS This family-owned restaurant features many classics and some items with a European flair. It’s the perfect spot for a family-friendly meal, serving up great food at very reasonable prices. 2437 State Road, 330-928-5751

VIVA VINTAGE Owned by a father and daughter duo, this shop focuses on items from the 50s, 60s and 70s. You’ll find furniture, glassware, clothing, accessories, costume and fine jewelry, housewares, collector’s items, and Christmas decorations at low prices. 526 Graham Road, 330-920-1437 visitvivavintage.com

YUM YUM GUM SHOP Come for an opportunity to try more than 100 unique flavors of gum. Parents stay happy because the gum is sugarfree. 2595 State Road, 800-604-8041, yumyumgum.com

JULY calendar NortheastOhioParent.com

Festive Fourth

Celebrate the country with your little ones at a variety of patriotic events fit for the whole family.

7/2-4

A Salute to America. Great music, fireworks and fun for the whole family.

8 p.m. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, clevelandorchestra.com

7/1-4

Fairport Mardi Gras. Rides, games, food and fireworks at the beach on Fourth of July weekend. Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park, 220 Third St., Fairport Harbor, 440-352-3620, fairportmardigras.vpweb.com

7/4

Old Glory Days. Children’s parade, games, music, face painting, balloon animals and pie eating contest.

Chardon Square/Gazebo, Short Court Street, chardonchamber.com

PICK YOUR DAY MONDAYS

Marvelous Mondays. Each week is a new activity such as LEGO Bricks Building, Carnival Games, Fairy Tale Time and more. Ages 5-11. 12:15-12:45 p.m. ParmaSnow Branch Library, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, 216-661-4240, cuyahogalibrary.org Summer Kids Movie Series.

Summer break doesn’t have to be boring! Watch a familyfriendly movie for only $1. 1-2:45 p.m. 605 Market Ave. N., Canton Palace Theatre, 330-454-8172, cantonpalacetheatre.org

TUESDAYS

Farm Fun Tuesday.

Perfect for farmer friends of all ages. $5 per person will give you access to The Discovery Barn, Farmer Joe’s Barnyard Animals, Rascals Round Up and the playground. Nickajack Farms, 2955 Manchester Ave. NW, North Lawrence, nickajackfarms.com

WEDNESDAYS

Story Time. Ages birth to 2 years.

10 a.m., Wickliffe Public Library, 1713 Lincoln Road, Wickliffe, 440-944-6010, wickliffepl.org

Stinchcomb Summer Concert Series. Join family and friends for great free music. 6-8 p.m. Rocky River Reservation, StitchcombGroth Memorial Scenic Overlook, Cleveland, 440-734-6660, clevelandmetroparks.com

Dinner with Dad! Give the kids a fun evening out with your undivided attention. 10% discounts on dinner or desserts for dads flying solo with the kids. Cafe O’Play, 911 Graham Road, Stow, 330-928-7517, cafeoplay.com

THURSDAYS

FRIDAYS

Bow Wow Books. Stop by every Thursday evening and sign up for a 10-minute reading time with a therapy dog. 6:30-8 p.m. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, Westlake, 440-8712600, westlakelibrary.org

Euclid Beach Live. Food trucks and live bands make for a fun twist on the traditional picnic in the park. Euclid Beach Park, Euclid Creek Reservation, Cleveland, 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com

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JULY

calendar

Poolside Stories. Cool down during your 15-minute rest period with some fun stories from Mentor Public Library. 2-2:15 p.m.

Civic Center Pool, 8500 Civic Center Blvd., mentorpl.org

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Music Nights at First & Main.

Evenings of music, dancing and giveaways. 7-9 p.m. First and Main streets, Hudson, 330-653-9530, firstandmainhudson.com Music in the Park. A variety of musical talents perform, from Motown to rock to jazz. 6-8:30 p.m.

Crocker Park, near Cheesecake Factory, 189 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, crockerpark.com

SATURDAYS

Boulevard Beats. Sit back, relax and enjoy a summer concert series.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Eton Chagrin Blvd., 28601 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, 216-591-0544

DAY BY DAY 7/1 & 2

Cole Brothers Circus.

4:30-7:30 p.m., Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, 164 Eastland Road, Berea, 800-796-5672, gotothecircus.com

7/4

Kent Heritage Festival. Held in downtown Kent on Water, Erie, Franklin and Main streets between Depeyster and Cougler. 9 a.m.11 p.m. kent360.com, kentbiz.com Artwalk. Meet the artists who make Downtown Akron culturally and artistically vibrant. Free trolley to more than 20 destinations.

5-10 p.m. downtownakron.com Independence Day Parade.

Begins at the Fairlawn Town Center and proceeds west to the Dillard’s parking lot at Summit Mall. 6:30 p.m. 2775 W. Market St., cityoffairlawn.com Willoughby Fireworks. 9:45 p.m.

South High School, 5000 Shankland Road, Willoughby, 440-953-4200, willoughbyohio.com

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THURSDAYS Edgewater Live Grab a blanket or lawn chair and listen to some of Cleveland’s hottest bands and grab dinner from the top local food trucks. Edgewater Beach, Cleveland, 216-635-3200, clevelandmetroparks.com PHOTO COURTESY OF EDGEWATER LIVE/CLEVELAND METROPARKS

Rock and Boom. Celebrate Independence Day from the deck of the Mather and watch Cleveland’s fireworks. 8 p.m.

216-621-2400, greatscience.com Mentor Fireworks. Spectacular fireworks display can be viewed from Civic Center Park and Mentor High School. 9:50 p.m. Civic Center Park, 8600 Munson Road, Mentor, cityofmentor.com Westlake Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks. Parade begins at Westlake High School and proceeds east on Hilliard Blvd.

Evening activities take place at Clague Park. cityofwestlake.org

7/7

Music by the Lake. Enjoy free lake swimming beginning at 5 p.m. and a one-hour concert at 6:30 p.m. Munroe Falls Metro Park, Lake Area, 521. S. River Road, Munroe Falls, 330-865-8060, summitmetroparks.org Family Show. Rick Smith, Jr., magician and Guinness world record holder for card throwing, wows audience with his comedyfilled magic show. 1-2 p.m.

Goodyear Branch Library, 60 Goodyear Blvd., Akron, 330-784-7522, akronlibrary.org

Popsicles in the Park. Children ages birth to 6 years old with caregiver for stories and popsicles.

1 p.m. Riverside Park Pavilion, downtown Chagrin Falls (along the water), cuyahogalibrary.org Nature Baby. Grab a baby backpack or just carry your child for a walk in the woods. Hear a story and the sounds of nature.

Older siblings welcome. 10:3011:15 a.m. Rocky River Nature Center, 24000 Valley Pkwy., North Olmsted, 440-734-6660, clevelandmetroparks.com

7/8

Unmasking Teen Talent. Show off your talent, whatever it may be! Microphone will be available.

Wickliffe Public Library, 1713 Lincoln Road, Wickliffe, 440-944-6010, wickliffepl.org

7/9

Evening Pontoon Float. Join naturalists for a leisurely cruise on a floating water lab in search of wildlife. Bring waiver day of event (families can all be on one).

Hinckley Lake Boathouse & Store, 1 West Drive, Hinckley, 440-526-1012, clevelandmetroparks.com

Swifty the Clown Balloon Show.

Experience the power and fascination of the balloon with Ohio’s premiere balloon artist.

2-3:15 p.m. Fairview Park Branch Library, 21255 Lorain Road, 440-333-4700, cuyahogalibrary.org

7/9-11

Italian-American Festival.

Bring the family downtown and let the infectious atmosphere win you over, one bite at a time.

11 a.m.-11 p.m. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron, it-am.org

7/9-12

Fairview Summer Fest.

Budget-friendly family event that includes a parade, carnival rides, dog parade, fireworks and more. Bohlken Park, 3701 W. 210th St., Fairview Park, fairviewsummerfest.com

7/10

Outdoor Family Film. Watch “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” after Family Fun Zone and Drum Circle. Film begins at Dusk.

7-10:30 p.m. Witwer Park, 301 Harmon St. SW, North Canton, ncantonlibrary.com

7/10-26

River Days. Live entertainment, art show, games, pony rides, Taste of River and much more.

Rocky River, rrcity.com

The Pajama Game. The timeless musical “The Pajama Game” has delighted audiences since it first opened on Broadway in 1955.

TrueNorth Cultural Arts, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, 440-949-5200, metroparks.cc/truenorth

7/12

Good, Old-Fashioned Outdoor Fun. Calling all families to join a naturalist for interactive, outdoor fun. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Road, Richfield, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org

7/11

Fireflies: Nature’s Night Lights.

Learn how these amazing “bugs” light up the summer sky.

8:30-10 p.m. Goodyear Heights Metro Park, Pioneer Shelter and Trails, 550 Frazier Ave., Akron 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org Pancakes with the Penguins. Enjoy breakfast in Komodo Kingdom Cafe, then help with the morning feeding at Penguin Point. 8-10 a.m.

Akron Zoo, 504 Euclid Ave., Akron, 330-375-2550, akronzoo.org Outdoor Movie: “Big Hero 6.”

Come early for entertainment from magician “The Great Brad.”

Movie begins at dusk. Dudley Park, 31500 Willowick Drive, Willowick, cityofwillowick.com Superhero Day. Dress as your favorite superhero and bring your superpowers to enjoy crafts, games and activities.

10 a.m-5 p.m. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, Westlake, 440-871-2600, westlakelibrary.org Sensory Storytime. Specifically for children with special needs and their families. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Bay Village Library, 502 Cahoon Road, 440-871-6392, cuyahogalibrary.org Super Science Saturday.

Kids entering kindergarten through fifth grade can exercise their super powers as they conduct an experiment or two. 2 p.m. Mentor Headlands Branch, 4669 Corduroy Rd. Mentor. 440-257-2000, mentorpl.org

7/11 & 12

A Mommy Pop-Up Show!

Enjoy a day out and shop this pop-up shop event with nearly 40 handmade artisan vendors. Legacy Village (Former Apple Store Location), 25001 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, bumptobows.com

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS Ice Cream Weekends Celebrate National Ice Cream Month by trying your hand at making ice cream and meeting the cows. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Ave., Chardon, 440-358-7275, lakemetroparks.com

7/22 I Scream, You Scream, We all Scream for Ice Cream Families and children make their own ice cream. 4-5 p.m.

Medina Library, Storytime Room, 210 S. Broadway St., 330-725-0588, mcdl.info

Family Karaoke Open House.

Show off your voice during a family-friendly karaoke concert.

Noon-2 p.m. Exploration Gateway Shelter, 5710-5712 12th St. NW, Canton, 330-409-8096, starkparks.com

7/13-18

Medina County Arts Week Festival. Free daily arts activities for children at the gazebo in Medina Square and in Brunswick.

Free events at various venues from noon-9 p.m. each day. medinacountyartscouncil.org

7/14

River Jamboree. Free family event that focuses on species and qualities that make the Grand River unique. Pre-registration required.

1-4 p.m. Hidden Valley Park, 4872 Klasen Road, Madison, 440-3587275, lakemetroparks.com Crocker Kids – Red, White & Balloons. Fun, free, interactive activities for kids of all ages on the second Tuesday of each month, including music, giveaways and more. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

189 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, crockerpark.com

7/18

Medina Bee Festival. Celebrate the bees at a fun-filled day for the whole family. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Medina Library lawn, 210 S. Broadway St., 330-725-0588, mcdl.info STEAM Saturday – Interactive Riddles. Grades K-6 collaborate on a variety of STEAM-related brainteasers. Registration opens July 4. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Cleveland Heights Public Library, 2800 Noble Road, 216-291-5665, heightslibrary.org

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JULY

calendar

Big Rigs Day. Kids of all ages can come play on large trucks, play on an obstacle course, get airbrush tattoos and specialmade balloons. Chardon Square/ Gazebo, Short Court Street, chardonchamber.com

7/19

Lakewood LEGO League. Use your imagination and the Library’s collection of LEGO bricks to create new structures and designs.

6 p.m. Lakewood Public Library, 15425 Detroit Ave., 216-226-8275, lakewoodpubliclibrary.org

7/22

Teen Drama Club Presents. Come and enjoy a theatrical presentation by the Lorain Public Library’s very own Teen Drama Club. 10:30-11 a.m.

351 W. 6th St., Lorain, 440-244-1192, lorainpubliclibrary.org

7/23

Totally Teen Thursday.

Ages 11-18 try toilet paper bowling, glow-in-the-dark tic-tac-toe, and balloon ping pong. 2-3 p.m.

Firestone Park Library Branch, 1486 Aster Ave., Akron, 330-724-2126, akronlibrary.org

7/24

Run the Parcours. A combination of running, walking and other physical exercises. 8-9:30 a.m.

Sand Run Metro Park, Treaty Line Area, 995 Treaty Line Road, Akron, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org

Akeelah and the Bee. Watch as 11-year-old Akeelah rises above the challenges in her daily life to advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Cleveland Hts.-University Hts. Library, 2345 Lee Road, 216-932-3600, heightslibrary.org

Summer Volunteen Day. Ages 11-18 volunteer at the library while earning service hours, meeting new friends and having fun.

Akron-Summit County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron, 330-643-9067, akronlibrary.org

The Wonderful World of Bubbles.

The magnificent Bubble Lady creates acrobatic, bouncing, square, and super sized bubbles.

Lakewood Public Library, 15425 Detroit Ave., 216-226-8275, lakewoodpubliclibrary.org

7/20 Bugs for Kids Join a naturalist on a walk to look for bugs. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows, 2620 Harrington Road, Akron, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org

7/25

Wigs for Kids Day at the Zoo. Run, walk or stroll your way through the zoo for a great cause.

Activities also include a Cut-AThon, raffle prizes, face painting, kid zone, live entertainment and more. 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, wigsforkids.org Dance Party on the Patio.

Dancers of all ages are invited to get their groove on, make a craft and listen to music. 2 p.m.

Hudson Library & Historical Society, 96 Library St., Hudson, engagedpatrons.org “Race ‘N’ Taste” at Hiram House Camp. 5k Race, 1-Mile Fun Run/ Walk and Food Tasting event.

Benefits the “Campership Fund” to enable children in need to attend summer camp. 8:30 a.m. race start time, 11:30 a.m. restaurant tasting event.

Register. 33775 Hiram Trail, Moreland Hills, 216-831-5045, hiramhousecamp.org

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LIBRARY FOCUS — Here are a few kid-friendly fun events happening this month at this area library.

Cuyahoga Falls 2015 Third St. 330-928-2117, cuyahogafallslibrary.org

7/2 Mighty Math!

Kids in grades 1 to 3 are invited to join this over-the-top club designed to get them fired up about math. They will get to build stuff, run and jump, make music and more. 6:30 p.m.

7/7 Canvas Shoe Art Kids can bring a pair of plain, white canvas shoes to customize with Sharpies, paint and their creativity. Grades 6-12.

Call the Teen Librarian for recommendations of where to buy shoes. 3 p.m.

July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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Solve-It Summer Weekends Great Lakes Science Center

JULY

Come to Great Lakes Science Center for four big weekends filled with Rubik’s Cube-inspired fun and games for the whole family. Enjoy everything from life-sized chess games to crazy contraptions.

Solve-It Summer Weekends programs are free with paid admission to Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland. Get details at GreatScience.com.

7/25

PHOTO COURTESY OF GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

calendar

Headlands BeachFest – Presented by Marc’s The mile-long lakefront will be filled with colorful flying kites, sand castles, live music, strolling performers, kayaking, dancing and tents filled with children’s activities, arts & craft vendors, and food. 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Headlands Beach State Park, 9601 Headlands Rd, Mentor. cityofmentor.com

7/26

Special Needs Family Night.

Exclusively for families with a special needs child and their siblings for a night of fun. 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Children half-off admission. Cafe O’Play, 911 Graham Road #27, Stow, 330-928-7517, cafeoplay.com

7/28

Kelly Miller Circus. Come to the park on the morning of their arrival to watch the animals being unloaded. Advance tickets purchased at Manry Activities Center. Performances at 4:30 & 7:30 p.m. Dudley Park, 31500 Willowick Drive, Willowick, cityofwillowick.com

7/29

Ice Cream Social and Musical. Enjoy ice cream while listening to Tom Todd’s variety of music for all ages.

Wickliffe Public Library, 1713 Lincoln Road, Wickliffe, 440-944-6010, wickliffepl.org

7/30

Yoga for Kids. Children ages 6 to 10 will mimic animals and other natural movements with a naturalist and certified yoga instructor. Liberty Park, Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org Summit County Farm Bureau Mobile Learning Lab. Explore 10 learning stations inside the trailer with a professional educator to guide students and families. 1-3 p.m.

Odom Blvd. Library Branch, 600 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, 330434-8726, akronlibrary.org Teen Expo. Come for education, health, recreation and safety information. Fun activities include video truck, inflatables, games, prices and entertainment.

5:30-9 p.m. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron, 330-375-2712, akronpeacemakers.org Candy: The Sweet Side of Chemistry. Learn the chemistry of candy and confections with The American Chemical Society.

Lodi Library, Community Room, 635 Wooster St., Lodi, 330-948-1885, mcdl.info

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July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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SAVE THE DATE

FAIRS FESTIVALS 7/9-11

Old Canal Days Festival. Grande Parade, fireworks, horse drawn canal boat rides and fun for the whole family. St. Helena Heritage Park & Historic Downtown, 123 Tuscarawas St., Canal Fulton, visitcantonstark.com

7/10-12

7/23-26

Streetsboro Family Days. Free concerts, fireworks, fair food, games, rides, car and bike show and much more. Streetsboro City Park, 8970 Kirby Lane, streetsborofamilydays.org

7/25

Arts Festival. Art exhibits, restaurant-quality food and entertainment. Cain Park, 14591 Superior Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-371-3000, cainpark.com

Headlands Beachfest. Familyfriendly celebration of wind, water and sand. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Headlands Beach State Park, 9601 Headlands Road, Mentor, 440-466-8400, cityofmentor.com

7/11

7/28-8/2

Lakewood Summer Meltdown.

The best backyard summer party that includes street vendors, games, activities, live music and more. 4-10 p.m. Downtown Lakewood, lakewoodalive.com

7/17-19

Painesville Party in the Park.

Featuring activities, music and many other things for the whole family to enjoy including “Family Fun Zone.” Downtown Painesville, Veterans Park, 7 Richmond St., parkpartyinfo.com Octoberfest in July. Car raffle, model trains, rides, Chinese auction, miniature golf and more.

Immaculate Conception Church, 37932 Euclid Ave., Willoughby, 440-942-4500, immaculate.net

7/19

African American Festival. Live music, food and youth activities.

11 a.m.-9 p.m. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St. Akron, lock3live.com, akronafricanculture.com

7/23

Taste of Akron. Get the full flavor of Akron by sampling appetizers, entrees and desserts from a variety of area restaurants and food trucks. 6-10 p.m. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron, akronartsexpo.org

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Summit County Fair. Six-day affordable family entertainment venue. 229 E. Howe Road, Tallmadge, 330-633-6200, summitfair.com

8/1

Fun Fest. Free family festival with arts, crafts, music, petting zoo, balloons, games, train ride, inflatables, dancing, face painting, characters and more. 10 a.m.2 p.m. Downtown Massillon, massillonmuseum.org/fun-fest

8/3-9

Medina County Fair. Featuring headliner Little Big Town and lots of free family entertainment including: Elephant Encounter, Granpa Cratchet Puppet Show and an Agriculture Tent.

710 W. Smith Road, Medina, 330-723-9633, medina-fair.com

8/4

National Night Out. Come and meet your safety officers and city officials and enjoy Jungle Terry, live Superheroes, a DJ, raffles and a racing obstacle course. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Chardon Square Gazebo, 101 S. Hambden St., 440-286-2610, chardon.cc

8/6

KidsFest & Flea Market.

Flea Market 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

KidsFest noon-3 p.m. Chardon Square, 101 S. Hambden St., chardonsquareassociation.org

8/8

Lake Erie Water Fest. Bring the family and celebrate your Great Lake. Noon-5 p.m. Miller Park Road, Avon Lake, avonlakewater.org

8/9

The FEST. Free family day of fun including performances by national Christian musical artists and activities for children of every age. Center for Pastoral Leadership.

28700 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe, thefest.us

8/8 & 9

Twinsday Festival. The world’s largest gathering of twins (and other multiples). 9825 Ravenna Road, Twinsburg, 330-425-3652, twinsday.org

8/22

Art-A-palooza. A wide variety of art, live entertainment, food and children’s activity area. Boettler Park, 5300 Massillon Road, Green, cityofgreen.org Chesterfest. 5th annual family fun event. Noon-6 p.m. Parkside Park, 12701 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, 440-729-7297, chesterlandchamber.com

8/28 & 29

Mentor CityFest. Familyoriented active event with live entertainment, rock wall, inflatables, games and more. Civic Center Park, 8500 Civic Center Blvd., Mentor, 440-974-5720, cityofmentor.com

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marketplace

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Party Planning

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un F y l i m a F d an y h p a r g o t Pho

marketplace

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Visit NortheastOhioParent.com and click on the Directories tab to find more Party Planning and Summer Fun ideas!

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July 2015

Don’t Navigate the Pill Maze Alone Medication Management for Loved Ones STAYING ACTIVE Keep moving to be healthy 48

Family Living At Its Best

Summer Safety

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Brad Mitchell brad@northeastohioparent.com

Supplement to Northeast Ohio Parent Aging Answers is a property of Mitchell Media LLC

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July 2015 • Northeast Ohio Parent | Aging Answers

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Celebrate Summer Safely

Tips to keep your loved ones safe during this warm season

T

he weather is turning warmer and for many, thoughts are turning to the dozens of great outdoor parks, fairs and festivals that Ohio’s communities offer.

The Ohio Department of Aging, through its STEADY U and HEALTHY U initiatives, urges all Ohioans to think about health and safety while enjoying the festivities.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO STAY SAFE THIS SEASON: ● As much as possible, stick to paved surfaces and sidewalks. Consider using a cane or walking stick for off-road walking. ● Trash, hoses and cables in walkways can cause you to slip or trip. ● Heavy crowds can affect the way you walk and cause you to trip or be knocked over. Consider attending events and attractions during off-peak times, such as early in the day and on weekdays, to avoid large crowds. ● Dehydration and exhaustion can

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make you unsteady on your feet before you realize you feel tired or thirsty. Take frequent breaks to sit down and rest. Drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids to stay hydrated. Watch for signs of dehydration and heat-related illness, such as muscle cramps, light-headedness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, flushed or clammy skin and disorientation. Seek cool environments and medical attention if you experience symptoms.

GET THE MOST OUT OF SUMMER DESTINATIONS: ● Make a budget for your visit. Know how much you expect to spend for travel, parking, admission, food, gifts and other expenses. ● Contact the venue in advance to ask about discounts on admission, food or gifts for veterans, seniors or groups. ● Call ahead to ask about wheelchair or mobility scooter rentals and prices, or if you can bring your own. Ask if there are any areas of the venue that are not accessible for people with limited mobility. ● Bring any necessary medications with you in a sealed, waterproof container, along with a list of the medicines you take and dosage information. ● Apply sunscreen to exposed skin and wear sunglasses or a hat with a wide

brim to protect your eyes and minimize glare. ● Wear light-colored, lightweight clothing made from natural fibers. Fabrics like cotton absorb less heat from the sun, allow good air circulation and dry quickly if they get wet.

AFFORD COOLING COSTS If you are concerned about your ability to afford your summer cooling costs please know that there is help available through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Summer Crisis Program. The Summer Crisis Program is a federally funded program administered by the Ohio Development Services Agency’s Office of Community Assistance. It is designed to help eligible lowincome Ohioans meet the high costs of home energy.

For more information about HEAP and applying for the Summer Crisis Program, call the Direction Home Akron Canton’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) at 1-877-770-5558.

HEALTHY U Ohio offers several community-based and online workshops that can help you learn proven strategies to live a more active life with chronic conditions. To learn more, visit www.aging.ohio.gov. Article courtesy of the Ohio Department of Aging.

Health & Well Being

Exercise Offers Many Benefits for Older Adults

I

f the older adult in your care has health problems, he or she may have a hard time starting or consistently doing exercises. Those health problems may reduce energy levels or make activities feel too difficult.

However, there are easy exercises for those who do not have much energy or do not feel well. Getting started is the hardest part. You can help your loved one start at a lower level that he or she can tolerate before building up to recommended levels of activity.

If you do the exercises together, not only will you gain the benefits of the exercise, you will be spending quality time with your loved one and may find that some of the stress associated with caregiving is reduced.

BENEFITS OF EXERCISE Older adults who regularly exercise or maintain high levels of physical activity have a better quality of life, as well as improved memory, mood and ability to do daily tasks. Physical activity is important, and possible, even for people who have physical health, memory or mental health problems. Although health problems can make it challenging to be physically active, exercise can still be beneficial.

by Jeanne Hoban Even older adults with severe memory problems experience benefits from regular exercise. Early findings from a study by the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging — the Reducing Disability in Alzheimer’s Disease study — show that exercising helped improve the ability for people with dementia to do daily activities, such as dressing, bathing and walking. The exercises helped improve their mood, too.

CREATING AN EXERCISE PLAN The American Heart Association recommends that older adults spend two and half to five hours per week doing moderate-intensity exercise; or about 30-60 minutes a day, five times a week.

This can be done all at once or in increments as little as 10 minutes at a time.

There are two types of recommended exercises. One type is aerobic exercise, which can help reduce the risk of premature death from cardiovascular causes, improves cognition and mood, and includes, for example, swimming, fast walking or bicycling. The other type is resistance exercise, which can help with strength, function, balance, bone density and reduced risk for falls.

Some examples of resistance exercise include lifting weights, some types of

housework or yard work, and using resistance bands during movement. The best exercise program is one that includes both aerobic and resistance activities.

THE KEYS TO HELPING YOUR LOVED ONE GET THE MOST BENEFITS FROM EXERCISES ARE TO: Help him or her consistently do exercises for the long-term. It usually takes around six weeks to notice the physical benefits, but the mood-enhancing benefits may show up right away.

Make sure he or she is doing the right exercises; doing the wrong exercises can be risky. Check with his or her physician or an exercise professional to get started.

Be free with words of encouragement.

Set a time or schedule for exercising each day, or every other day.

For more information on the benefits of exercise for older adults, visit NIH Senior Health from the National Institutes of Health at nihseniorhealth.gov.

Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging cares for people with complex, long-term needs through home care, mental health case management, social work and other services. benrose.org

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Take Control of Prescriptions YOUR AGING LOVED ONES DON’T HAVE TO NAVIGATE THE PILL MAZE ALONE

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bit of arthritis. High cholesterol. Diabetes. Aging takes its toll on everyone. As health issues mount, so do the number of prescription medications.

A hodgepodge of pill bottles lining a kitchen windowsill or crowded into a bathroom drawer can be a dangerous way to manage medication. Take one drug twice daily, another only at bedtime, a third with meals — it’s easy to make a mistake. Aging family members can have a difficult time sorting through an ever-increasing assortment of prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and other supplements. The problem can be magnified by possible memory and other issues.

Personalized Help Via Technology

While the everyday pill box can help keep things organized, there are organizations around the region that sort and deliver prescriptions in personalized pouches. One example is the Cleveland area-based Exactcare Pharmacy.

With no additional cost beyond the usual pharmacy charge, the company will provide an in-home assessment of all medications that someone takes.

A trained staff member looks at every prescription and over-

by Marie Elium

the-counter medication, contacts each physician to review dosages and other details and turns the information over to the company’s online pharmacy. All insurance claims and other paperwork are handled by Exactcare. Drugs are sorted and packed into carefully marked pouches that detail the day, time and other dosage information. The box of drugs, including any inhalers, diabetic supplies and over-the-counter medicines, is delivered to the home with no shipping charges, says Dale Wollschleger, company founder and president.

It’s best suited for people who take five or more medications regularly. Antibiotics, for example, are taken for a specific amount of time and don’t lend themselves to the program.

Wollschleger, a pharmacist, had worked with mental health patients and devised a system to help them take multi-doses of medications. He knew the system could be helpful to others, so he started Exactcare.

“Safety is a huge factor in this,” he explains. Often, senior citizens are hospitalized or move to assisted living facilities because they have a difficult time managing their drugs.

Of every 100 prescriptions written, between 50 and 70 are taken to a pharmacist. Of those, between 46 and 66 are filled.

The numbers become more sobering; only 25 to 30 of the medications are taken properly and just 15 or 20 are refilled as prescribed, Wollschleger says.

A glance at the pre-dosed, pre-sorted Exactcare packaging can tell a family member or patient if he has taken the correct drug in the correct dose at the correct time.

Pharmacies Provide Extra Services People may be surprised at the variety of ways pharmacies try to help people manage their medicines, regardless of age, says Stuart Deal, a pharmacist with Klein’s Pharmacy and Medical Equipment in Akron.

“We try to make it as streamlined as possible,” he says.

Klein’s uses two systems to help keep pills organized: Doc-U-Dose and RxMap. Doc-U-Dose uses envelopes with four individual pouches for each day to separate doses into morning, noon, evening and bedtime. Each is meticulously labeled. RxMap employs a similar packaging system but uses a trifold card. Each card represents one week of medications. With each, the pharmacist can include over-the-counter medications and vitamins.

Deal and other pharmacists are liaisons who coordinate physician prescriptions, insurance reimbursements and the needs of patients.

Klein’s most frequently uses a delivery service to get the “compliance packaging” into the hands of clients if patients or caregivers can’t pick it up at the stores.

Dosing systems such as those offered by Exactcare and Klein’s can be customized to best suit the needs and abilities of patients and caregivers. A quick look at the packaging ensures that medications are taken in a timely manner and indicates missed doses.

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MEDICATION SAFETY TIPS Prescription drugs can save lives, but in the wrong dosages or combinations they can be killers.

About 76 percent of seniors ages 65 to 74 used two or more prescription drugs within the past month. Thirty-seven percent use five or more. It’s tough to juggle medicines at any age, but many seniors have diminished memory and other cognitive challenges that make proper drug use difficult.

✔ Review Medications with Your Healthcare Provider Schedule a medicine review annually with your primary healthcare provider. Make sure

your list of drugs is up to date, review dosages, discuss which need to be changed or eliminated and ask about lower cost alternatives if drug expenses have become a burden.

Here are four ways to use prescription drugs safely, according to the FDA: ✔ Take Medicine as Prescribed Seniors on fixed incomes may be tempted to take unused medicine from a spouse or split pills to save money. Others may tinker with their dosages to counter unpleasant side effects. Drugs such as those for arthritis or high blood pressure work best when taken over a long period of time. Follow the advice of the health care provider. Don’t make adjustments on your own. ✔ Keep a Medication List Write down the name and dose of every drug. Keep it handy and give a copy to a close family member or friend. The list is invaluable in an emergency or at the next doctor visit. ✔ Be Aware of Potential Interactions Age can increase harmful drug interactions.

Liver and kidney function may not work as well, and aging often affects the way the body absorbs medicine. Read the prescription insert and rely on the pharmacist or healthcare provider for further information.

July July2015 • 2015 •Northeast NortheastOhio OhioParent Parent| |Aging AgingAnswers Answers

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OHIO SUPREME COURT ENACTS NEW GUARDIANSHIP RULES Two of the most important estate planning documents you can sign are a financial durable power of attorney and a health care power of attorney.

These documents allow someone you trust to handle your financial affairs and health care decisions if you are no longer able to make them yourself.

Having these documents signed can prevent someone from being appointed as your guardian through the county probate court. Having a guardianship is costly, time consuming and involves lots of paperwork. Plus, it’s public record of the fact that you have been declared incompetent. Most people want to avoid a guardianship. Effective June 1, 2015, the rules to serve as guardian were changed, making it even more important to avoid a guardianship. Below contains some highlights of the new rules.

• All guardians who were serving on June 1, 2015, or during the five years before June 1, 2015, must take a six-hour fundamentals course provided by the Supreme Court of Ohio or an entity approved by the court by June 1, 2016. This training is required unless the court waives the training for good cause to a person related to the ward.

• In each succeeding year, a guardian must complete a continuing education course of three hours provided by the Supreme Court or an entity approved by the court. A guardian must report that he/she has taken such course by or before January 1 of each year.

• Anyone requesting to be appointed as a guardian will need to have a criminal background check. In addition, the training and annual continuing education will apply to guardians appointed after June 1, 2015. Newly appointed guardians will have until six months after their appointment as guardian to complete the six-hour fundamentals course.

• If the person under guardianship is to be moved, you must notify the court. Unless it’s impractical, you must notify the court no later than 10 days prior to changing the ward’s residence. If the change is to a more restrictive setting, the court’s approval must be obtained prior to such move, unless health and safety reasons would be affected by a delay.

• Each year, a guardian is required to file a guardianship plan. This is a new requirement and is in addition to the guardian’s report. The guardianship plan must contain the guardian’s goals for meeting the ward’s personal and financial needs. In addition, a guardian must meet at least quarterly with his/her ward.

Local court rules will be enacted, which will implement these above rules. The following is a link to the Ohio Supreme Court website for more information: supremecourtofohio.gov These changes are meant to improve the lives of the persons under guardianship. However, these new rules can be burdensome, and you should try to complete a financial power of attorney and a health care power of attorney instead of imposing all of these rules on your loved ones. Please contact Solomon, Steiner & Peck at 216-765-0123 for more information.

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Furry Friends

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Easy Ways to Protect Your Dog from Getting Canine Influenza

by Dr. Anna M. Van Heeckeren, MS, DVM at One Health Organization

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anine influenza is a viral disease of dogs. You may have read reports about this in the news. Luckily, there are some easy ways you can prevent your dog from getting this disease (and other viruses).

FOR A QUICK OVERVIEW, HERE ARE 5 EASY WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR DOG:

1.

Know more about how this virus is spread to your dog

2. Get your dog vaccinated against canine influenza

3.

Stay away from areas where your dog will encounter other dogs

4. Learn more about whether canine influenza can spread to other species

5.

Understand what it looks like if your dog may be infected with canine influenza How is the disease spread? Canine influenza is spread to other dogs like human influenza virus is spread to other people–coughing, sneezing, and even indirectly through objects like leashes, food bowls and clothing that can carry the live virus (this virus can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours).

What about a vaccine for canine influenza? Like the human influenza virus changes every year, so can canine influenza. Therefore, currently available canine influenza vaccines may not be 100% protective. Regardless, they are likely to help your dog’s immune system fight against exposure to many strains of canine influenza. Talk to your veterinarian about what vaccines are recommended for your dogs.

How can you prevent your dog from getting exposed to canine influenza?

One of the best ways to prevent the spread of canine influenza is to keep your dog away from other dogs. However, you may want to balance the risk of exposure versus your dog’s happiness. If your dog loves to have “playdates” with other dogs, be sure you know that your dog’s playmates are receiving the same kind of precautions you give your dog, like vaccines. Similarly, make sure that if your dog needs to go to dog day care or to a boarding facility, that the facility has stringent guidelines about vaccinations (plus disease testing for heartworm and parasite control).

Can canine influenza infect people or other pets? Luckily, canine influenza isn’t thought to be able to infect people and make them sick. However, it may make your cat sick.

What does it look like if your dog has canine influenza? Your dog may cough, have runny eyes or nose, be lazier than is typical for your dog, not want to eat all their food, and have a fever.

Finally, if you suspect your dog has been in contact with an infected dog or has the symptoms mentioned, then call or make an appointment with your veterinarian.

Canine influenza and other transmissible diseases of dogs and cats are constantly emerging and re-emerging.

That’s why it’s so important that you and others take your pets to a veterinarian for vaccinations and parasite control, and keep on top of your pet’s health condition. Know what’s typical for your pet, and talk to your veterinarian about your lifestyle, your pet’s lifestyle, and how to best protect them given your special circumstances.

July 2015 • Northeast Ohio Parent | Aging Answers

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Be Fit!

Take the ‘Physically and Financially Fit’ Challenge this Summer

by Dee Siegferth

ummer in Ohio is the time to finally be able to enjoy the outdoors, which make becoming more physically fit doable. Summer also is a good time to take the “Financially Fit Challenge.”

Here are some ways to help your aging loved one do both.

WARD OFF HEALTH ISSUES

The days are longer, which means more time to plan activities to increase your physical fitness. Being physically fit helps you ward off health problems, have more energy, and feel better inside and out. You can become physically fit by adding more steps each day while enjoying the outdoors.

Take the challenge every summer by turning off the television or electronic device for at least an hour to enjoy more of summer’s fresh air in an outdoor physical activity. It only takes 21 days to create a new healthy habit, and you will have the satisfaction of meeting your fitness goal.

BE MONEY WISE

At the same time, you can become more financially fit by setting aside time to “Close the holes in your financial security bucket.”

Did you realize that most people do not check their beneficiary forms that they may have completed a long time ago for their insurance, investment or retirement (IRA, 401k or 403b) accounts?

Just like getting a physical each year, your financial and risk protection house needs an annual check-up to cover up any holes. Adjust your plan to meet yearly changes.

Eight out of 10 people do not have their important legal documents completed to ensure that their wishes will be completed their way during life or after they pass.

Have you thought about what would happen to your nest egg if you become too ill to take care of yourself or make your own decisions?

Without a plan, you may not have “your wishes, your way.” With a solid plan, your care will be followed the way you want it to happen.

Take the summer fitness challenge this season to become physically and financially fit by being in control of your life’s direction.

Securities offered through Wall Street Strategies, Inc. 362 N. Main St., Huron, 419-433-5291 Member FINRA & SIPC

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Family Living Living At At Its Its Best Best Family

HEALTH & WELLNESS EVENTS July/August 2015 Mondays & Wednesdays

JULY EVENTS

strength, stretching and stamina. No floor exercises. Chairs, mats, weights provided. Sign up for one or two days a week. $4 per class. 10-11 a.m. Health Education Center, 7300 State Road, Parma, 440-743-4900, uhhospitals.org

Scam Alert. Learn about the latest scams

Tuesdays

7/8

the Coventry Collaborative Garden with fellow community members. 6-7 p.m. Coventry Village Branch Library, 1925 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-3400, heightslibrary.org

new DVD releases and light refreshments.

1-3:30 p.m. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, 330-273-4150, mcdl.info

Senior Fit. Ages 60 and older focus on

Open Gardening Hours. Help tend

Blood Pressure Screening.

First Tuesday of every month sponsored by Southpark Mall and Southwest General. 9-10 a.m. Southpark Mall, upper food court, 500 SouthPark Center, Strongsville, 440-816-4037, swgeneral.com Senior Horticulture Group. First

Tuesday of each month. 10 a.m.-noon. $5 for members and $7 for non-members. Cleveland Botanical Gardens, 11030 East Blvd., 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org

Wednesdays

Senior Matinee Series. Cookie and

punch reception following the performance. $15 per person. 1 p.m. The Fine Arts Association, 38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, 440-9517500 ext. 103, fineartsassociation.org

Thursdays

Laughter Club. 11 a.m.-noon. South

Euclid Community Center, 1370 Victory Drive, Cleveland, 216-291-0771, communitypartnershipon-aging.org Arthritis Exercise. Approved by the

Arthritis Foundation. 9:30-10:30 a.m. DeJohn Community Center, 6306 Marsol Road, Mayfield Hts., 216-291-3902, communitypartnershiponaging.org Brain Gain Games & Puzzles.

Fun and thought provoking! Drop in on the first and third Thursdays at 1 p.m. Stow Senior Center, 3968 Darrow Road, 330-686-1325, stowohio.org

Fridays

Intermediate Line Dancing.

Dances such as the Bossa Nova or learn new Cupid Shuffle and Cha Cha Slide. 9:30-10:30 a.m. DeJohn Community Center, 6306 Marsol Road, Mayfield Hts., 216-291-3902, communitypartnershiponaging.org

7/7

targeting our senior population and find out how to protect yourself and your loved ones.

7-8 p.m. Richmond Heights Library, 5235 Wilson Mills Road, cuyahogalibrary.org Afternoon at the Cinema. Enjoy

7/10

Archery for Seniors. Ages 55 and

older can learn and test their marksmanship. Equipment and instruction provided.

Registration required. 7-8:30 p.m. Silver Creek Metro Park, Archery Range, 89 Western Road, Wadsworth Township, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org

7/14

Welcome to Medicare. A representa-

tive from the Lake County Council on Aging and the Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) will provide unbiased information on Medicare Part A and Part B benefits and more. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., lccoa.org Wellness Lecture – “Exercise is

Medicine for Cancer-Related Fatigue.” 7-8 p.m.

Cleveland Clinic Lyndhurst Campus, Auditorium, 1st floor, 1950 Richmond Road.

216-448-4325, clevelandclinic.org

Aging and the Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) will provide unbiased information on Medicare Part A and Part B benefits and more. 1-2 p.m. Fairport Senior Center, 1380 East St., Fairport Harbor, lccoa.org

Stroke Survivor Support Group.

7/17

7/25

available at 11:30 a.m. and games begin at 1 p.m. Ages 50 & over. Quirk Cultural Center, 1201 Grant Ave., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-971-8425, cityofcf.com

to save while learning how to shop at all the stores like Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, Staples and more. 2-4 p.m. Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway St., 330-725-0588, mcdl.info

Bingo. 25 cents a card. Lunch concessions

7/18

Arts for Wellness – Collage Jewelry. For those affected by cancer:

patients, former patients, family members, caregivers. 10 a.m.-noon. Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-932-3600, heightslibrary.org

7/23

A Matter of Balance – Healthy U!

Emotional healing to new drugs or devices or specific therapies that might be helpful to the stroke survivor. 6-7:15 p.m. TriPoint Physician, 7590 Auburn Road, Concord, Lubrizol Conference Center, lakehealth.org Couponing with Rachel. Find ways

7/27

Chronic Pain Support Group. 2-4

p.m. Hillcrest Hospital Atrium, 6770 Mayfield Road, Mayfield Heights, 440-312-4310, clevelandclinic.org

7/28

Random Act of Music. Weather

Your risk of falling decreases the minute you stop being afraid of falling. Free. Avon Senior Center, 36786 Detroit Road, 440-934-2417, cityofavon.com

permitting, the all-volunteer Metro Parks Ensemble performs traditional marches, big band standards and oldies. 7-8 p.m. Wood Hollow Park, 2121 Barlow Road, Hudson, 330865-8060, summitmetroparks.org

7/24

7/30

55 and older.Registration required. 5-6:30 p.m.

Silver Creek Metro Park, Archery Range, 89 Western Road, Wadsworth Township, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org

includes lunch, beverages, games . 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Rear Quarry Picnic Shelter, Euclid Creek Reservation, Euclid Creek Parkway, near Green Road entrance, Euclid, 216-650-4029, communitypartnershiponaging.org

Archery Games for Seniors. Ages

CPA Picnic-in-the-Park. $13

7/15

Heart & Sole Challenge, Healthy Strides. A

casual 30-minute walk, preceded by a brief informative talk by local health professionals and city officials. Sandy Ridge Reservation, 6195 Otten Road, North Ridgeville, nridgeville.org

7/16

Welcome to Medicare.

A representative from the Lake County Council on

July 2015 • Northeast Ohio Parent | Aging Answers

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7/31

8/5

8/12

Kiwanis club of Nordonia Hills. 4:30 & 7:30 p.m. Northfield Village Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation, 10267 Northfield Road, 330468-1800, northfieldvillagesnr.com

lunch, entertainment and health information.

Reservation required. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. St. George Fellowship Centre, 3204 Ridgwood Road, Fairlawn, 330-869-9800, Tickets are $12, akrongeneral.org

new DVD releases and light refreshments.

1-3:30 p.m. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, 330-273-4150, mcdl.info

Kelly Miller Circus. Sponsored by the

AUGUST EVENTS 8/1

Free Family Health & Safety Day Celebrate wellness with free health

screenings, education and demonstrations – plus family-friendly activities. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

University Hospitals Richmond Medical Center, 27100 Chardon Rd, Richmond Heights, 216-593-1768, uhrichmond.org

WAKR Senior Luncheon. Enjoy

8/10

Joint Replacement Class. Learn

how to prepare for your recovery, what to expect during and after your total joint replacement surgery. 9-11 a.m. West Medical Center, 36000 Euclid Ave., Willoughby, lakehealth.org

tion Program (OSHIIP) provides Medicare information. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Willoughby Senior Center, 38032 Brown Ave. lccoa.org

Afternoon at the Cinema. Enjoy

8/24

Chronic Pain Support Group. 2-4

8/16

British Invasion at Blossom – The

Cleveland Orchestra. $65 includes transportation, dinner, concert ticket and event t-shirt.

440-473-5138, communitypartnershiponaging.org

8/18

Welcome to Medicare. A representa-

tive from the Lake County Council on Aging and the Ohio Senior Health Insurance Informa-

p.m. Hillcrest Hospital Atrium, 6770 Mayfield Road, Mayfield Heights, 440-312-4310, clevelandclinic.org

Underground Railroad Walking Tour. Learn more about the homes, sites

and people that played a significant part in the anti-slavery movement of pre-Civil War Hudson. 6:30 p.m. Entrance of Hudson Library, 96 Library St., Hudson, engagedpatrons.org

Medicare update The Medicare Open Enrollment period for 2016 begins this fall on Oct. 15 and runs until Dec. 7. This is the period of time when all people with Medicare can change their Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage for 2016.

Medicare is available for people age 65 or older, people under age 65 with certain disabilities, and people of all ages with end-stage renal disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant).

Medicare Part A covers inpatient care in hospitals, including critical access hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Depending on eligibility, it also can help cover hospice care and some home health care.

Medicare Part B provides medical insurance to help cover doctors’ services and outpatient care.

It also covers some other medical services, such as physical and occupational therapy, some home health care, and supplies when they are medically necessary.

Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage and is available to anyone who receives Medicare. Private companies provide the coverage. Beneficiaries choose the drug plan and pay a monthly premium.

People with Medicare, family members and caregivers should visit medicare.gov, for the latest information on Medicare enrollment, benefits and other helpful tools.

Courtesy of Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, benrose.org

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July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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July 2015 • NortheastOhioParent.com

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