Boomers & Beyond AUG 2016

Sassy • Spirited • Successful

August 2016 INSIDE • Jambulance rolls in with fun • Exploring Devils Lake

Freshly Picked Summer Recipes • Healthy and Happy over 50 Investing in Retirement • Summer at Camp La La

Sassy • Spirited • Successful

Mary Helen Darah and Jennifer Ruple

We do not remember days, we remember moments.-Cesare Pavese In this edition, John Mark Rankins reminds you that even though you can’t change your age, you can change your choices (pg. 3).

Jennifer Ruple shares her favorite freshly picked summer recipes (pg. 4) and a creative grandma opens her heart and home to her family for ‘staycation’ known as Camp La La (pg. 6).

Want to hit the road? Enjoy sun and fun at Devils Lake (pg. 8).

Jeff Bucher has helpful tips on how to handle your retirement account when you switch jobs (pg. 10) and our favorite gardener discusses decorative garden grasses (pg. 12). Enjoy the last days of summer. Remember, as Bill See said, “The brave do not live forever but the cautious do not live at all.”

sas•sy

spir•it•ed

suc•cess•ful

adjective very stylish; confident and energetic

adjective full of courage or energy; very lively or determined

adjective having the correct or desired result; ending in success having achieved wealth, respect, or fame

BOOMERS & Beyond Inside Editors Mary Helen Darah Jennifer Ruple Boomer Consultant Sharon Lange Sales Manager Connie Torrey Contributing Writers Jeff Bucher, Rick Cozza, Mary Helen Darah, Christine Holliday, John Mark Rankins, Jennifer Ruple, Sue Schafer Layout and Design Elissa Cary Boom Your Business with Advertising boomersandbeyond2014@gmail.com 419/824-0100 On The Web sylvaniaadvantage.com/boomers-beyond facebook.com/BoomersandBeyondSylvania Boomers Hangout 5655 N. Main St. #1, Sylvania, Ohio 43560

•The Jambulance, owned by Pam and Ray Boyer, delivers The University of Toledo spirit to UT home games and beyond.

• Healthy and happy over 50

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• Freshly picked recipes • Summer at Camp La La

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• Sun and fun at Devils Lake

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• Investing in retirement

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• Crossword fun

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• Make a statement with ornamental grasses

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• Jambulance rolls in with fun

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• Books for boomers • Boomers on the move

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• It’s a date

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• Keep your cool this month at Devils Lake. Enjoy a scenic drive, water sports and special events.

ON THE COVER

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Fabulous over 50

How to be healthy and happy for the long haul By John Mark Rankins

You can’t change the clock (birthdate), but you can change the choices you make each day that affect life expectancy as well as your ability to live a longer, more vibrant life.

“Life expectancy is the average number of years that a group of John Mark Rankins persons in a population is expected to live,” said Elizabeth Arias, Ph.D., leader of the statistical analysis research team in the mortality statistics branch of the National Center for Health Statistics.

So how does one age well? What do we need to do, and/or stop doing?

While you can’t change your birthday, you can adopt behaviors that are linked to a higher quality of life and increased life expectancy. You can use this risk-avoidance advice for your own decision making. For instance, smoking and shorter life expectancy have a strong correlation, so if you smoke, quitting could make a difference.

Lifestyle Diseases, according to the U.S. Dept.

Labor Statistics, generate most of the chronic diseases that affect 160 million Americans and account for 78% of our healthcare costs. They are caused by lifestyle and environmental factorsnamely our diet, sedentary lifestyle, smoking and chronic stress. But the good news is the report goes on to say that those adhering to healthy behaviors can prevent:

AUGUST 2016

• 93% of diabetes • 81% of heart attacks • 50% of strokes • 36% of all cancers Research shows that top doctors believe that lifestyle choices and self-care are the future of health care. And with the emergence of new technology and online resources, self-care has never become easier.

Whether your goal is to receive anti-aging advice, lose weight, increase your energy, or just be healthier, health coaches will take the time to listen to your concerns, to help you discover why you are struggling, and to assist you in navigating the available options to figure out exactly what works for your unique body.

John Mark Rankins is a Certified Health Coach, Holistic MBA. Learn about his “Coach Approach” to break through weight loss barriers and plateaus and achieve your ideal body and optimal health at www.johnmarkrankins.com.

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Freshly picked

Savoring the fruits of summer By Jennifer Ruple

Farmers markets, roadside stands and local produce aisles are brimming with an abundance of fruits of the season, particularly stone fruits like tart cherries, tangy nectarines, sweet peaches and luscious plums. Certainly you can enjoy them in their pure, juicy, chin-dribbling state, or you can savor them in cobblers, tarts and pies.

Nectarine Tarts with Honey Add a drizzle of honey over these quick and easy tarts, and your friends will think you bought them at a fine French patisserie.

1 (17.3 ounce) package frozen puff pastry sheets, thawed Parchment paper

2 pounds nectarines, cut into ¼-inch slices 6 tablespoons sugar ¼ cup honey

Heat oven to 425 F. Cut each pastry sheet into six 3-inch squares and place in a single layer on two parchment paperlined baking sheets. Arrange nectarine slices on each pastry square. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake 15 - 20 minutes or until pastry is golden brown, rotating pans top to bottom halfway through. Cool on a wire rack 5 minutes. Drizzle with honey just before serving.

(Recipe from southernliving.com)

Cherry Balsamic Galette The addition of balsamic vinegar to this single-crust pie brings an extra layer of richness to the filling. ½ teaspoon vanilla extract ⅓ cup sugar 1 refrigerated pie crust, room temperature 1 egg ½ teaspoon salt 1 ½ pounds tart cherries, pitted Coarse sugar for sprinkling 1 ½ tablespoons balsamic and halved vinegar 3 tablespoons flour Heat oven to 375 F. On a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, unroll pie crust. Set aside.

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar and salt. Add cherries and stir to combine. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar and vanilla. Pour over cherry mixture and combine.

Add cherry mixture to the center of the pie crust, leaving a twoinch border around the edge. Fold edge up and over the filling, creating pleats all around. Whisk egg with 1 tablespoon of water and brush onto top of crust. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

(Recipe from Jennifer Ruple)

Chris Raszka

LMT, LLC

Christine A. Raszka, Licensed Massage Therapist 6616 Monroe St., Ste 3 • Sylvania, OH 43560 419.705.4993 • craszka@gmail.com • chrisraska.com

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Perfect Peach Cobbler Nothing says summertime like good old fashioned peach cobbler.

Feel free to experiment with other stone fruits or berries in this recipe, but for the most mouth-watering goodness, serve it right out of the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

6 peaches, peeled and sliced ¾ cup sugar plus 1 tablespoon, divided 1 cup flour plus 2 tablespoons, divided 1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon butter 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons shortening ½ cup milk

Heat oven to 425 F. Grease a 7x11 inch casserole dish. Place peaches in baking dish.

Combine ¾ cup sugar and 2 tablespoons flour and sprinkle over peaches. Sprinkle lemon juice over the top. Top with butter. Set aside.

Sift together 1 cup of flour, baking powder, salt and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Cut in shortening. Stir in milk.

Drop by spoonfuls onto peaches. Bake for 30 minutes.

(Recipe adapted from picsandpastries.com)

SEPTEMBER Issue Date: Tuesday Aug. 16 - DEADLINE: Friday July 29 OCTOBER Issue Date: Tuesday Sept. 13 - DEADLINE: Friday Aug. 26 boomersandbeyond2014@gmail.com

AUGUST 2016

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Creative grandma hosts Camp La La By Christine Holliday

then planning a “show” evening for their parents Lots of kids look forward to at the camp’s conclusion. In year five of ‘Camp summer camps. Scout La La,’ Pam decided it would be fun for the kids camps, sports camps, to sleep in tents in her backyard, so she and dance/song/theater granddaughter Eleanor shopped for a big tent. camps, even Lego Now Camp La La is an overnight camp, with all Robotics camps or the campfire fun and ghost stories that go with science camps are all sleeping outside. Some nights, local animals, options. Summer including deer, raccoons, squirrels, possums, programs are a great bats, groundhogs, and rabbits, have stopped by to opportunity for children to test their self-confidence see what’s going on.

Pam Kelso’s Camp La La away from home, meet Who is this grandma who can get her grandkids marked its seventh year new friends, and try (ages 10 ½-15) to look forward to giving up their this summer. new activities. Parents computers and phones to spend time with each appreciate the short breaks from parental duties other and with their parents and grandparents? too.

Pam is a retired public relations professional, who got into the communications For one extended local family, business as a result of her love of camp is a chance to performing and singing. Pam celebrate summer happily reports that her love of with family. Pam singing goes back to grade school, Kelso’s 2016 Camp when she was a fifth-grade soloist La La, held over the in the church choir in Gates Mills, 4th of July Ohio. She also appeared in high weekend, was school musicals, participated in similar to her little theater shows in Chagrin previous six camps—lots of food, of people," Pam Falls, and built a resume appearing st a fun group ju e ar e "W in musicals and theater productions fun, crafts, sports, skits, r family.

Kelso says of he in the Cleveland area. singing with her four grandchildren. This time, however, their parents La La is the perfect name for this grandma who were invited to be part of the fun, and Pam was studied opera and voice with the Cleveland pleased to hear her son Michael, a reluctant Institute of Music, studied camper, liken the camp experience to “a real music at Baldwin vacation.”

Wallace College, and was a soloist with the “That’s the idea,” she explained. “It is a stayA cappella choir at vacation!”

Otterbein The camp got its start when Pam invited her University. Pam grandkids to spend some time at a daycamp-like event at her house. Two-year-old Greta saw Pam moved to Toledo with her husband, performing in a show called Frog and Toad with Bob, in 1972, and was the Village Players, and called her “La La,” her part of the Village word for music. Over the years, the camp has Players (on Upton Every camp needs a bear–in this grown to a weeklong day camp, with the kids Avenue) in the case it’s grandson Griffin Kelso. helping to decide on the activities for the week,

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before 1970s. She performed at Friar Tuck’s in returning to Maumee and at the Friar Tuck’s Bijou in their tents for downtown Toledo from 1976 until the the night, the 1990s. She even had a five-piece country family band called Roundhouse. watched the Camp La La thrives on Pam Kelso’s film vivacious personality. She prints a “Zootopia” program for each camp, a document that projected on includes the camp song (written by Pam the outside to the tune of “I wish I were an Oscar That is one big rubber du cki e tha wall of the t is keeping Meyer wiener”), the daily schedule and Greta, left, and Ele anor, right, entertained. garage. the camp pledge stating, “We pledge to be true friends and to try to be kind to each other. Daughters-in-law and granddaughters Eleanor and Greta helped plan We strive to remain positive and curious this year’s camp using notes from past camps. throughout our time at camp and to have some She continually keeps her party-planning skills fun.” Crafts, swimming and free time are sharp all year round. Her Groundhog Day scheduled. The day ends with a singcelebration is a perfect example. She along around a campfire. made a meatloaf shaped like a rodent, Consider this lineup from a and required that everyone come to previous camp. Day one was dinner dressed as a shadow or a dubbed “All Day Ball Day” and groundhog. Pam lives by the belief the campers played volleyball that, “Life should be a celebration. I with a yoga ball, had relay races think experiences mean more than riding a ball in the pool, played stuff.

I would like my grandkids to pool baseball, and had meatballs remember our home as a fun place to and tapioca balls for dinner. Day two be, with rules.” was “Nutty Nature Day” that Grandson Max Kelso used She retired in the spring and has included a photo scavenger hunt at his Boy Scout training to Secor Park, peanut butter and jelly fashion a bamboo headdress. rediscovered how much she loves to write. She still loves to sing, and she lunch, afternoon swim and leather entertained customers and fellow travelers in a crafts. Day three was “Music Day” and featured pub on a recent trip to Ireland. Chances are, this a trip to the library for books about making #1 camp counselor will find a way to combine musical instruments, swimming to music, and those two interests in a way to entertain her construction of crazy homemade instruments. family and friends.

This year, the camp Griffin, the oldest grandchild, schedule included appeared in a fur coat and a bear three generations of hat at Camp La La this year, the Kelso family. bringing lots of laughs and making The campers played memories for his siblings and tennis and gaga ball family members. He happily and made crafts admits, “We are a fun bunch of using the bamboo people and I’m glad my grandma plants in the Kelso is as crazy and creative as I am.” yard. Daughters-inading and re r fo t ec rf pe law Christine and nt was The girls-only te Heather made a giant . ng sleepi placemat out of bamboo, son Joe worked on making a flute, and grandson Max designed a bamboo headdress.

Each family member brought an item to be redone for the family’s Flea Market Flip, and,

AUGUST 2016

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Plates and Places

Soak in the sun and fun at Devils Lake By Jennifer Ruple It’s August and things are heating up around here. But don’t lose your cool–roll the windows down, crank up the tunes, feel the warm breezes through your hair, and head to Devils Lake. Plan to stay for the Jennifer Ruple day and take in the scenic drive around the lake, lunch, water activities, and a little shopping.

Begin your journey from U.S. 223 and turn onto Devils Lake Hwy. Enjoy views of the lake and cottage homes as you make your way to Manitou Beach Village on the west side of the lake. There you’ll find a farmers market, boutiques, eateries, and on a handful of weekends, special events.

Make your first stop the Manitou Beach Farmers A boat is on display in front of the Market where Manitou Bar and Grill. you can

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A roadside view of Devils Lake in Michigan’s Irish Hills.

peruse the fresh produce, flowers, crafts, and homemade baked and canned goods. Located in a large pole barn, the market is held Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. through September 3.

Just across the street are two delightful boutiques where you can shop for a touch of lake living.

Located in the “lighthouse building” is Devils Lake View Living which features distinctive gifts for home and lifestyle, including beachwear, purses, jewelry, candles and chocolates.

The Buoy at the Lake, housed in a building of New England style character, Alexander, left, chats with offers nautical- Robert Bernie Dominique of Dog House inspired gifts Designs at the Devils Lake Art Fair in June. and home

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The Buoy at the Lake offers nautical-inspired gifts and home décor.

décor plus fun sandals, jewelry and accessories.

When you’re ready to chill out or for a light lunch, venture next door to Jenni’s Coffee & Cream. The trendy little haven offers a plethora of cold drink options, including iced tea, iced coffees and smoothies. A variety of ice cream possibilities are available as well as baked goods, salads and deli sandwiches.

For more hearty fare, hit the Manitou Beach Bar and Grill just around the corner. Take a seat on the porch and check out the Sweet Heat pulled pork, lake perch, or the Summertime Salad with strawberries, chicken and gorgonzola cheese.

The village also hosts many special events throughout the year, including a juried art fair in

early summer and the upcoming Rockin’ the Hills Craft Beer Festival on August 6 and the Manitou Beach Car Show on August 20.

Round out your trip to the lake with a little water action.

Pontoon boats, jet skis, fishing A narrow canal connects Devils Lake boats, kayaks, and Round Lake. paddle boards and lake toys are available to rent for the day or half day from Rob’s Rentals located at 9517 Devils Lake Hwy. The business also has scooters and bicycles for rent if you prefer to remain dry.

Call 517/673-3620 for reservations.

With all of this summer fun in store, what are you waiting for? Hop in the car and get to the lake.

Jennifer Ruple is the author of the blog somedaycowgirl.blogspot.com.

BLUE LAKES CHARTERS & TOURS Plan now to join us for an exciting getaway!

Aug. 22 - 25 Lancaster, Pa.

“Samson” at the Sight & Sound Theater Tour the Amish Countryside & Shops Herr Snack Tour, Chalk Artistry & Music “The Crooners” – American Theater

Oct. 3 – 5 Niagara Falls & Erie Canal

Maid of the Mist, Dinner at the Falls, Wine Country & Erie Canal Cruise.

Try Your Luck at the Casino!

BLUE LAKES IS HIRING DRIVERS!

Oct 17 – 23 Savannah, Myrtle Beach, Charleston, Pigeon Forge

Guided tours in Savannah, Charleston & the Smoky MT’s, the Drayton Hall, the Biltmore Estates, Visit Gatlinburg.

Shows at the Savannah Theater & the Alabama Theater, Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud & Country Tonite!

Oct 31 – Nov 5 Escape To Branson

Shows – Showboat Branson Belle, Shoji Tabuchi, Brett Family, The Haywood’s, Daniel O’Donnell “All Hands on Decks” Starring Jody Madaras!

Call Us for Tour Information & Reservations! 419-874-4225 or 1-800-282-4287 # 5

AUGUST 2016

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It’s all about the money

What are my retirement account options if I switch jobs? By Jeff Bucher Changing jobs can be a tumultuous experience.

Even under the best of circumstances, making a career move requires a series of tough decisions, not the least of which is what to do with the funds in your old employer-sponsored retirement plan.

Generally, you have three choices when it comes to handling the money in a former employer’s retirement account.

First, you can cash out of the account. However, if you choose to cash out, you will be required to pay ordinary income tax on the balance plus a 10% early withdrawal penalty if you are under age 59½.

Second, you may be able to leave the funds in your old plan. But some plans have rules and restrictions regarding the money in the account.

Or third, you can roll the money into an IRA. Why do so many people choose an IRA rollover? Here are a few of the major benefits: Rollovers may preserve the tax-favored status of your retirement money. As long as your money is moved through a direct “trustee-to trustee” transfer, you can avoid a taxable event.³ In a traditional IRA, your retirement savings will have the opportunity to grow tax-deferred until you begin taking distributions in retirement.

An IRA rollover may open up your investment choices. When you stick with your former employer’s retirement plan, you are typically limited to the investments offered by the plan.

With an IRA, you may have a much broader range of choices, giving you greater control over how your assets are allocated.

Rollovers can make it easier to stay organized and maintain control. Some people change jobs several times during the course of their careers, leaving a trail of employer-sponsored retirement plans in their wake. By rolling these various accounts into a single IRA, you might make the process of managing the funds, rebalancing your portfolio, and adjusting your asset allocation easier.

An IRA rollover may make sense whether you’re leaving one job for another or retiring altogether.

But how your assets should be allocated within the IRA will depend on your time horizon, risk tolerance and financial goals. ³ This article is not intended as tax advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult a tax professional for specific information regarding your individual situation.

Jeff Bucher is the president and co-founder of Citizen Advisory Group, a comprehensive financial planning company in Perrysburg. You can contact him at 419/8720204; email at jeff@citizenadvisory.com; visit at 770 Commerce Dr., Perrysburg; or visit the website at www.citizenadvisory.com.

Investment Advisory services are offered through Alphastar Capital Management, a SEC Registered Investment Advisor. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by Commission Alphastar Capital Management, LLC and Citizen Advisory Group are independent entities.

Congratulations, Jeff!

Jeff Bucher is a Top Five National Finalist for Retirement Advisor Magazine's Advisor of the Year. The traits that the magazine editorial team were looking for included outstanding personal production; a commitment to the community or other nonprofit endeavors; a spotless ethical record; and a passion for working with clients to ensure they have a financially successful retirement.

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Crossword fun: 1980s Movies ACROSS 1. Like an old chip 6. Military hospitals 9. Whip strike 13. Fruit-peeling device 14. Part of circle 15. Type of duck 16. *James Bond’s James St. John Smythe, e.g.

17. *Type of race in Cusack’s “Better Off Dead” 18. Closes in on 19. *Daniel LaRusso’s martial art 21. *Marty McFly’s destination 23. Utmost degree 24. Not final or absolute 25. Gourmet mushroom 28. Domesticated ox 30. *Type of bomb in “Fat Man and Little Boy” 35. Like dental surgery 37. U, on the road 39. Phil Collins' “____ Be in My Heart” 40. Alliance acronym 41. Misbehave 43. Guilty, e.g.

44. Consumed 46. Spiral-horned antelope 47. Bit of slander 48. *“Missing in Action” star Chuck 50. Count on 52. Query 53. Departed 55. Tree fluid 57. *Prince’s “____ Rain” 60. *He had an epic day off

AUGUST 2016

63. Cone shaped dwelling 64. Time period 66. *Johnny 5 of “Short Circuit” 68. Like yesterday’s meal?

69. Opposite of don’ts 70. Sheep-like 71. Get the picture 72. Thus far 73. Chunk of iceberg?

DOWN 1. Resting place 2. Spill the beans 3. Diva’s delivery 4. “Live and ____” 5. Cheap substitution 6. Bud holder 7. *One of Indiana Jones’ quests 8. *“The Terminator” genre 9. In ____ of 10. Month before Nisan 11. Withered 12. Store posting, for short 15. Something that exists 20. Sorority letter 22. “This land is your land...”

24. Take under one’s wing 25. *Vengeful barbarian 26. Inspiration for poets and musicians

27. ____ familias 29. *John Candy’s slacker uncle character 31. “My bad!”

32. Head of mosque 33. Intestinal obstruction 34. *Head of the Griswolds 36. Displeasure on one’s face 38. Titian’s Venus of Urbino 42. Sign of life 45. “Peanuts” character 49. Sun in Mexico 51. Peter of Peter, Paul and Mary

54. Clingy one 56. Establish validity 57. Christmas partridge’s perch 58. “____ ____ no good” 59. Smell badly 60. *Like the times at “Ridgemont High” 61. What do you do on eBay? 62. *“Ghostbusters,” but not the movie 63. Sheep not yet sheared 65. Wade’s opponent 67. Driver’s aid

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Get growing

Make a statement with ornamental grasses By Rick Cozza, The Italian Gardener

“I don’t like ornamental grasses. They get too big.”

OK! If we look at life based on what we saw once, long ago, we would never do anything, would we? So let’s debunk that myth, and look at some really cool uses of grass (even if I do say so myself).

Ornamental grasses are virtually indestructible (pic. 1), seemingly thriving in wicked sun, near drought, very poor soil. They are one of those plants that you can use when nothing else seems to survive. And with new, smaller varieties, a mass of grasses can be incredibly astounding in appearance.

There are a multitude of grasses available, which might be one reason that people shy away from them.

But let’s be simple and talk about the three varieties that I seem to use most often and are most-readily available.

Dwarf fountain grass (Pennisetum) (pic. 2) is a low-growing, hardy grass that looks just like its name, a fountain. ‘Hameln’ is my favorite, growing to 2’ high and wide, perfect for that little space in the sunny garden bed. Here it is, tucked into a small bed next to the birdbath. Note that the texture of grasses is a great contrast to almost any largerleafed planting.

Of course, if you want to truly make a statement, a mass-planting of ‘Hamelns’

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can be truly spectacular, as with this entry garden right here in Sylvania. Notice how it brings the eye out to the yard (pic. 3), especially with a more two-dimensional home like this.

But, most likely, you would use it in an area of sun, like a patio.

Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis) is a wonderful, taller grass in a limited area. ‘Karl Foerster’ is my favorite. In fact, a grouping of lower Fountain Grass, combined with just one taller Feather Reed Grass is often spectacular, especially at an entry, end of driveway or other focal point.

But my favorite is a more shady-loving grass, only a foot high or so, but wider than tall. Japanese Forest Grass (Hackonachloa) (pic.

4) is one that will always stop people in their tracks, especially en-masse. A line of grasses coming up the walk or a group of three massed in a bed . . . wow!

They aren’t your grandfather’s ornamental grasses anymore, so don’t be afraid to use them.

As grasses become more common in landscape use, we will be less ‘afraid’ of them. BWI Airport in Maryland has beds of several hundred ‘Hamelns’ each, throughout the public areas of the airport entry drive.

Spectacular!

Pic. 1 Ornamental grasses are virtually indestructible and can survive in all types of conditions.

Pic. 2 Dwarf fountain grass is a lowgrowing grass that literally looks like a fountain.

Pic. 3 A mass planting of Hamelns lines an entry garden.

Pic. 4 Japanese Forest Grass is a showstopper.

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Let’s JAM!

Local couple rolls in the fun By Mary Helen Darah A 1993 Ford E-350 7.3L ambulance has become a without an oversized helmet in the front. The original emergency equipment including the symbol of University of Toledo pride, spirit and sirens, lights and PA system, are still operational. most of all FUN. It began with the purchase of Of course, there are a few extra goodies on board the diesel ambulance and the vision of original as well including a full-size grill, 45” flat screen owner Pat Ryan in April 2005. Ryan, an alumnus television and a stereo system that will knock of the University of Toledo, purchased the retired your socks off. Friend and expert electrician, John ambulance in New Jersey and brought it back to Pokrzywa, installed Ohio with the help of his extras incuding a friend, Dan Miller. The computer system and two transformed the message board. The vehicle into what is now ‘Jambulance’ made its known as the debut at the University ‘Jambulance.’ They also of Toledo 2005 home had assistance from football season opener fellow UT graduate, and has been getting Steve Tecza, who has people in the spirit ever some major skills in the The ‘Jambulance’ transports the fun and spirit to University since. area of electrical and of Toledo games, local celebrations and nonprofit events. mechanical engineering.

Finding a new home Tecza used what the team of transformers predict Ryan and his wife felt it was time to retire from at being close to 10,000 LED lights, to replace the the ownership and operation of the vehicle but vehicle’s original lighting. While Tecza focused wanted to make certain its next owners would on the engineering aspects of the Jambulance, carry on its traditions the way they envisioned.

Ryan focused on its interior. As a retired Army Enter Ray and Pam Boyer, the new owners of the Ranger with the nickname ‘Ranger Rocket,’ Ryan ‘Jambulance’ and spreaders of UT pride since meticulously cleaned and renovated the interior.

2013. “I ran into him (Ryan) at a Toledo Mud The vehicle now sports UT colors, midnight blue Hens game and started to talk with him about the carpeting and leather seats. Externally, the red ‘Jambulance.’ “Next thing you know I am driving ambulance stripe has been repainted in rocket it home,” stated Ray. “It’s a natural fit. I have gold, 16 ft. rocket decals have been placed on always been a big supporter of Toledo—football, both sides and what ‘Jambulance’ isn’t complete baseball, hockey—and I have wanted to make Toledo bigger and better. Pam and I met at a UT Crossword Puzzle Solution tailgate party. Whenever my wife and I leave town, we always wear our UT attire. I also used to sell concessions at the UT games including those when UT was 35 and 0.”

Although the couple is bubbling over with UT enthusiasm, Ray initially had his doubts. “As much as I loved the ‘Jambulance’ I didn’t think I was ready for the responsibility of it. My wife, Pam, convinced me. She has her ways. I blame her for this whole fiasco. Seriously though, we are loving every minute of it and are having a lot of fun. We have been to school outings, fundraisers and parades,” stated Ray. The couple also uses the vehicle to help nonprofit organizations. “We are big supporters of Costco and their work for The

TO PAGE 15

AUGUST 2016

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Books for boomers Although there may be plenty of reasons to be unhappy that summer will soon be coming to an end, don’t despair.

August is Admit You’re Happy month!

Here are some book suggestions that will lift your mood.

Live Happy: Ten Practices for Choosing Joy, HarperElixer, 2016

By Deborah K. Heisz This is an eye-opening shift of perspective on the secret of authentic happiness: how surprisingly simple, everyday acts lead to lifelong joy and fulfillment.

By Sue Schafer

Manager, Sylvania Branch, Toledo Lucas County Public Library

Little Victories: Perfect Rules for Imperfect Living, Doubleday, 2015

By Jason Gay In this collection of 18 essays, Jason Gay observes both the practical and ridiculously positive things about living in the modern age.

The Happiness Equation: Want Nothing + Do Anything = Have Everything, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2016

By Neil Pasricha Learn principles such as: · Why success doesn’t lead to happiness · How to make more money than a Harvard MBA · Why multitasking is a myth · How eliminating options leads to more choices

Level Up Your Life: How to Unlock Adventure and Happiness by Becoming the Hero of Your Own Story, Macmillan, 2016

By Steve Kamb For the past five years, the author has transformed himself from wanna-be daydreamer into a real-life superhero and actually turned his life into a gigantic video game: flying stunt planes in New Zealand, gambling in a tuxedo at the Casino de Monte-Carlo, and even finding Nemo on the Great Barrier Reef.

The Gratitude Diaries: How a Year Looking on the Bright Side Transformed my Life, Dutton, 2015

By Janice Kaplan This book recounts how the author spent a year living gratefully, drawing on advice from psychologists, academics, doctors, and philosophers in order to gain a fresh outlook that transformed her relationships, work, health and daily life.

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Boomers on the move

Holland Pickleball Club golf outing

L-R:Wayne Blosh, Robyn Blosh, Ann Yunker and Mike L-R: Bridget McClain, Nancy McKelvey, Betsy Yunker.

Kenniston and Kristen Villaflor.

Forty enthusiastic players from the Holland Pickleball Club gathered at White Pines Golf Course in Swanton for the first HPC golf scramble on Monday, June 27. The event was organized by club members Betsy Kenniston, Bridget McClain, Kristen Villaflor and Nancy McKelvey. The winning team consisted of HPC President George Namik, Stan Lehnert, John Lehnert and Jeff Storer. Longest drive for men was won by Jeff Storer, Vicki McGrath belted the longest drive for women, and closest to the pin awards were won by Betsy Kenniston and Judy Lambert.

Raffle prizes included pickleball related items such as paddles, hats, tee shirts, balls and carry bags as well as jewelry and certificates for rounds of golf and hair styling. The outing was a success, and will hopefully become an annual event.

–by Mary Helen Darah

Let’s JAM!

FROM PAGE 13

party to support UT.” Children’s Miracle Network,” stated Pam. “One of the original UT Blue Crew members is a The couple is surprised, and enjoy, being manager of Costco. That’s how we got started recognized outside of the ‘Jambulance’ there. He asked us if we environment. They also would help raise funds.” feel strongly about the importance of carrying Hitting the road on the tradition. “I want The couple has done a to see the ‘Jambulance’ great deal of traveling continue to be a positive with the vehicle. One of force of UT spirit,” said their most memorable Ray. “We have invested experiences was rolling a great deal into it and in UT spirit to Mobile, keep making it bigger Ala. “We took it down to Pam and Ray Boyer, owners of the Jambulance, attend University of Toledo games and other events with the and better. People love Alabama for the ultimate party vehicle. it. They want us to come GoDaddy Bowl,” to their family functions, wedding receptions and recalled Pam. “It has provided us with some great graduations.

One day, we will find someone with memories. The best part is when we take it to away games and we’re parked in another school’s the vision and spirit to keep the tradition going.” lot. People just go crazy about it and love hearing the story.”

Driving the tradition For the Boyers, the most rewarding aspect of owning the vehicle is providing a special gathering place for others. “We have such fun and huge tailgates,” stated Pam. “We basically throw a

AUGUST 2016

15

beats

It’s a date

Yark Subaru Rock N’ Roar Toledo Zoo Aug. 6. 7 p.m. - midnight Summer's wildest dance party! Black Swamp Rebels, Electrik Circus and DJ Jim Lieber will keep the party tunes pumping all night long. Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for nonmembers.

Visit toledozoo.org/roar.org River Raisin Jazz Festival St. Mary’s Park, Downtown Monroe, Mich.

Aug. 11 - 14 An award-winning musical event held on the banks of the beautiful and historic River Raisin River. RiverRaisinJazzFestival@monroeinfo.com Sunset Jazz and Art Festival Towpath Trail, Grand Rapids, Ohio August 21, 2 p.m. to dusk A beautiful setting for an art fair and jazz concert.

Presented by the Grand Rapids Arts Council. grandrapidsartscouncil.org

shindigs

Barefoot at the Beach Maumee Bay State Park, Oregon, Ohio Aug. 13, 6 - 11 p.m.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Toledo present its annual fundraiser. Enjoy food, dancing to the sounds of the Madison Avenue Band, and fireworks after sunset. Tickets $100 per person. barefootatthebeach.org

flicks

National Parks Adventure 3D COSI, Columbus, Ohio Through Sept. 5 Narrated by Robert Redford and captured with IMAX® 3D cameras, this ultimate offtrail adventure features the majestic beauty of our National Parks - Yellowstone, Yosemite, The Everglades and the Arches in full glory. cosi.org

Got upcoming events?

Email us at boomersandbeyond2014@gmail.com!

hops and vines

Rockin’ the Hills Craft Beer Festival Manitou Beach Village on Devils Lake Irish Hills, Mich.

Aug. 6, 3 - 9 p.m.

Featuring live bands and craft beers from Michigan breweries. Tickets $30 at door or $25 in advance. irishhills.com Uncork’d Wine, Food and Ale Festival Harbor Park, East Tawas, Mich.

Aug. 6, 12 - 6 p.m.

8th annual event features Michigan wines and ales and eats from area restaurants. tawasbay.com/events.shtml

sweats

Pollyball YWCA of Greater Toledo, 1018 Jefferson Ave. Aug. 20 Annual volleyball tournament to honor Polly Hylant-Tracy who lost her battle with cancer in 1990.

The event will raise money and awareness for breast cancer. Enjoy the fun and camaraderie of volleyball. pollyball.com

eats

Festival of India Centennial Terrace Aug. 7, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Celebrating its 27th year with the theme ‘Flavors of India,’ the event includes food, performances and fun for the whole family. Parking and event are free.

419/450-9280, hindutempletoledo.org Greek Luncheon Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church Community Center, downtown Toledo Aug. 11, 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Luncheon includes: Tiropita (Cheese Pie), Pistachio (Greek Lasagna), and Dolmathes (Grape Leaves), Greek salad, bread, coffee or iced tea $9. Pastries available. holytrinitytoledo.com/greekluncheon-dates-for-2016/