Boomers & Beyond April Issue, March 15, 2016

Sassy • Spirited • Successful

April 2016 INSIDE ikes • Boomer B f U.S. Perimeter o pired • Asian-Ins Dinner

Local Author Channels Mark Twain • YMCA Opens in Waterville The Charm of Tecumseh • Revitalize Your Garden

Sassy • Spirited • Successful ‘April is a promise that May is bound to keep’--Hal Borland The snow has melted away–at least we hope. If you need inspiration to dust the cobwebs off your bike, be sure to ride along with 66-year-old Alan Thompson, (pg. 3) who is peddling the perimeter of the U.S. for two great purposes. The ‘2016 Year of the Monkey’ was celebrated in China. Get out of your winter rut and try our Asian-inspired offerings (pg. 4). Get ready for the upcoming growing season with our resident ‘Italian Gardener’ (pg. 13). In the ‘taxing’ month ahead, learn how to use your smartphone to reach your financial goals (pg. 14). Most of all, enjoy this beautiful time of year. Smell the flowers, breathe new life into the ordinary, open the windows and bloom as a BOOMER. We wish you the happiest of springs and as always, thanks for reading.

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 Rick Cozza, Mary Helen Darah, Roseanna Mosiniak, Jennifer Ruple, Sue Schafer Digital Media Specialist Layne Torrey 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

• Local author Tom Lambert

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• Discover Tecumseh

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• Books for Boomers

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• Crossword fun

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• Staying active at any age

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• Biking Boomer • Asian inspiration

13 • Personal finance on your cell 14

• Revitalize your garden

• Retired teacher, Alan Thompson, is cycling the perimeter of the U.S. to benefit ‘Habitat for Humanity’ and ‘Save the Children’ (pg. 3).

• YMCA opens in Waterville

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• Going beyond

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• Grab some chopsticks and enjoy three Asian-inspired dishes (p. 4).

ON THE COVER

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Biking Boomer

Powerful peddler with a purpose By Mary Helen Darah Maine was breathtaking. I have Boomer Alan Thompson, age 66, left enjoyed transitioning from one on Aug. 17 for a journey to help environment to another. I have seen others. The retired junior high school the foliage of the east coast to the teacher is riding a clockwise journey stark openness of Texas. I’ve seen around the perimeter of the United beautiful landscapes all around me.

States to raise funds and awareness for ‘Habitat for Humanity’ and ‘Save How has the weather been treating the Children.’ At present, Thompson you? has covered close to 6,600 miles of I’ve gotten drenched a couple times, the 10,000 mile journey. Thompson, Turning the Southeast corner at Vero especially through North Carolina. who had a hip replacement a couple Beach, Fla. Heavy rain is always a challenge. It’s of years ago and a bout with skin cancer, took an “It’s tough to dry out. I’ve been through the cold with temps now or never” attitude before deciding to set off on his in the upper 20s and through heat that shoots up journey. He is a seasoned world-traveling cyclist yet, unexpectedly. I’ve encountered everything but snow. as we learned, life on the road comes with a few road What has been the most rewarding aspect of your blocks and detours. Most recently, the philanthropic journey? biker was hit from behind by a Boomer going 50 mph It’s the feeling that I’m making a difference by raising after leaving Vidal, Calif. He is sore and bruised but, funds for ‘Habitat for Humanity’ and ‘Save the thankfully for Thompson, he is very much alive and Children.’ That’s the main purpose of my ride. I’ve well. We sat down with Thompson, Boomer-toalso enjoyed meeting some amazing people along the Boomer, to discuss the memorable moments of his way. One of my most memorable encounters was with journey and his contemplation on the feasibility of Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (Ohio’s 9th District getting back on his bike and on the road.

U.S. House of Representatives). She heard about my What is the most challenging aspect of the journey? ride, was interested in my journey and wanted to meet The mental fatigue of being alone exceeds the physical me. challenges. I’m not supported in any way other than What goes through your mind while riding and my legs. The daily grind of packing up and then riding what is the probability of you continuing your ride? for hours begins to wear on you. In Texas, the When I’m on my bike, my mind wanders to everyone distances are so great. You have to bike 50 to 70 miles back home. I am an uncle and a brother. I often think to get to the next town. Physically I can handle it. The of my sister, nephews and nieces. I also have an iPod mental fatigue is far greater. that connects to my front handlebars, but sometimes Do you have a game plan with distinct stops? looking at the beauty around me is all I need. I’ve I pretty much go day to day. I don’t plan ahead too far. crossed through 24 states, and in my opinion, I contact the two organizations I’m raising funds for as California Rt. 62 has the worst infrastructure and their I go along. If one is close by and available, I try to stop safety margins are not adequate for cyclists. A disabled by and volunteer. I’ve done volunteer work in 12 veteran who heard about my journey and believes in different cities thus far. I’ve been staying in hotels and what I’m doing has anonymously offered to fix my I also camp. I did the majority of camping when I mangled bike. I’ve come so far, therefore the only started out. I also use a website for cyclists that provides information on places that will offer cyclists a option is to get back on the bike and finish strong. place to stay and a warm shower. That’s been kind of a neat way to travel. I have all my provisions, including extra tubes and basic tools. Of course, keeping well fed and ‘stoking the furnace’ is always on the agenda.

What’s the most beautiful place you have seen?

There has been so much diverse beauty. Traveling along the eastern seaboard and seeing the coastline of

APRIL 2016

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Asian Inspiration

Dinner for a few or a crowd By Jennifer Ruple and Mary Helen Darah The Chinese New Year has come and gone, but the celebration of the Year of the Monkey lasts until January 28, 2017, when the Year of the Rooster begins. By the way, if you happen to have been born during a Year of the Monkey - 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980 – you are characterized as intelligent, witty, playful and curious.

So grab some chopsticks, and maybe a spoon, and enjoy these three Asian-inspired dishes–an appetizer, soup and main dish that can be adapted to feed a few or a crowd.

Chicken Lettuce Wraps Vegetable oil Makes 10-12 appetizers 2 heads iceberg lettuce 3 boneless chicken breast halves, diced Thinly sliced green onions or scallions for garnish 1 can water chestnuts, drained and chopped 2 tablespoons corn starch 8 ounces cremini or ¼ cup water shiitake mushrooms, chopped

Marinade ¼ cup soy sauce 1 cup water ½ teaspoon ground ginger 2 cloves garlic, minced

5 tablespoons packed brown sugar 1-2 tablespoons honey

In a large bowl, combine chicken, water chestnuts and mushrooms. In a small bowl, whisk together marinade ingredients. Pour 1/3 of the marinade over chicken mixture and combine.

Allow to marinate 30 minutes. The remaining marinade will be used for a dipping sauce.

In a small saucepan, add remaining marinade and warm over medium-low heat. Combine corn starch and ¼ cup water until dissolved and stir into marinade.

In a wok or large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium high heat. Add chicken and stir fry for approximately 5 minutes, until browned and no longer pink (I cook my chicken in 2-3 batches to avoid overcrowding in the pan and steaming).

Spoon chicken mixture over lettuce leaves, garnish with green onions or scallions, and drizzle with extra sauce.

(Recipe by Jennifer Ruple)

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Asian Vegetable Soup 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, 2 tablespoons oil shredded 1 medium onion, chopped Kosher salt and black pepper 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon peanut oil 2 medium carrots, thinly cut 1 teaspoon oyster-flavored diagonally sauce (optional) 2 stalks of bok choy or 1 cup 1 tablespoon chopped fresh of shredded cabbage ginger 2 quarts chicken stock ½ cup tofu (optional) (homemade or bought) 8-10 ounces of pasta or Asian noodles – I cook my pasta separately to keep it al dente and then add it to the soup

In a soup pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, carrots, bok choy/sliced cabbage. Sauté for about five to six minutes until vegetables are soft.

Pour in the stock, and bring the liquid to a boil. At this point you can add the pasta and simmer for about five minutes or prepare pasta separately and add it later. Add salt, pepper and any other ingredients, such as sliced mushrooms, and simmer for a few minutes.

Top off with chopped green onions for taste and to add visual flair.

(Recipe by Mary Helen Darah)

Pepper Steak This dish is a no-fail crowd pleaser. The ingredients can be modified to serve more - I have prepared it for up to 40!

Serves 4-6 I pound flank steak cut into bite-sized pieces 1 tablespoon Chinese rice wine or pale dry sherry 3 tablespoons soy sauce 1 teaspoon sugar

2 teaspoons cornstarch 2 medium green peppers (or colored peppers) seeded, and cut into ½ inch squares 4 slices peeled fresh ginger ¼ cup peanut oil or vegetable oil-flavorless Rice or crunchy noodles for serving

Prepare ahead Cut flank steak lengthwise then crosswise. Mix together wine, soy sauce, cornstarch and sugar.

Add the steak slices. Using a large spoon, coat the meat with the mixture. You can prepare the dish right away or marinate the steak for up to six hours.

In a skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the ginger and cook for 30 seconds before placing the meat in the skillet. Stir fry until the meat is no longer pink.

Discard the ginger pieces, and add the peppers back into the skillet. Cook for an additional two minutes and serve over rice or with crunchy noodles.

(Recipe by Mary Helen Darah)

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Boomer book writer Tom Lambert

Enjoys ‘Living with Earl’ By Mary Helen Darah

Author Tom Lambert began his literary adventure by posting his daily musings with a fictitious and highly amusing houseguest on Facebook.

Lambert’s character, who he refers to as ‘Earl,’ insisted Tom Lambert channels his inner he was none other than Sam Mark Twain.

Clemens; the one and only Mark Twain. ‘Earl,’ who had a habit for continually quoting himself, entertained and amused Lambert’s Facebook followers until he decided their daily diatribes had run their course. Lambert quickly discovered that his loyal band of readers were not ready to say goodbye to ‘Earl.’

“The day I said that I was saying goodbye to the character, I heard from people telling me that I can’t take ‘Earl’ away,” recalls Lambert. “A friend of mine, a retired librarian, told me I needed to put my ponderings into something more durable and suggested I go back into Facebook and retrieve the material for a book. I was able to get everything but one post. Now in addition to being a carpenter and cabinet maker, I am a self-published author.”

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Failure to fiction writer “I failed English twice in high school,” states Lambert. “The dedication in my book recognizes my mother and Miss Elizabeth Gelvin, my former, highly stoic English teacher whom I referred to as ‘the prison guard.’” Lambert had failed seventh and eighth grade English that was taught by the football coach. He then was assigned to Miss Gelvin’s class, a teacher known for her strict discipline and high expectations.

“Miss Gelvin recognized that I was trouble. I was the class clown and the showoff,” remembers Lambert. “She had a writing assignment she gave to all of her classes. She would then read the best composition to each class. No one knew which one was going to be read. Before she read the winning entry, she prefaced by saying that the person who wrote it ‘is incredibly bright, but they refuse to apply themselves.’ She hoped the writer of the composition would spend more time working than playing. Then she read MY essay to the class.” Later, Miss Elizabeth Gelvin told Lambert that he had great potential. “She told me after class, in a quiet voice—the only time I ever heard her speak softly—that I had a real talent for storytelling,” states Lambert. “Thanks to her, I always thought in the back of mind, I would write something of substance one day.”

Creativity 101 Lambert is not a college graduate yet he audited creative writing classes at Bowling Green State University and edited a publication called, ‘The Literary Supplement.’ “Looking back, I think it is very ironic that I tended bar at ‘Old Howard’s’ where many of the English professors drank.

‘Old Howard’s’ is now the Wood County Library.” Lambert’s book is a series of short vignettes between he and his Mark Twain-like character, ‘Earl.’ “I read Huckleberry Finn about

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50 years ago,” states Lambert.

“Since I wrote my book, I have gone back and read everything Clemens ever wrote. I write ‘Earl’ as what I presume Mark Twain to be.

Readers have told me that they believe it to be a very accurate depiction.”

A family affair Friends and family have helped Lambert in his dream to be an author. “My sister, who worked for a national publication, helped me with the mechanics and editing of my writing and made a few suggestions about the flow of the book. She very carefully tiptoed around any type of literary editing.” Judy Fitzwater, a published mystery writer of a dozen books, helped Lambert format his book, and the cover design was created by a fellow classmate, Sue Ann Ladd, from Lambert’s high school in Bowling Green, Ohio.

Never too old Lambert believes that anyone can write a book and have their voice heard. His work has been well received and he was delighted to hear that his work is making its rounds through local book clubs. “People have been receptive,” states Lambert. “It’s funny. I often get a ‘Why are you doing this?’ attitude from those in my inner circle. Strangers have been the most encouraging.” Lambert has a few works he is “chomping at the bit” to finish, most notably the sequel to ‘Living with Earl.’ He would like to urge Boomers to follow their dreams. “You are never too old to create,” he states. “I don’t have to worry about sentence structure because I never learned it. If I could live for ten more years, I could write ten more books. Lose the fear and give it a try.”

The VA Hospital Challenge A message from Tom Lambert, author of “Living with Earl” I am a Vietnam era U.S. Army veteran. My fictional book reflects a deep emotional connection with American veterans, and my APRIL 2016

personal commitment to “give back.” I am donating twothirds of my profits from this book to a worthwhile project.

My goal is to send “Living with Earl” to every VA hospital–all 142 of them.

Every $13 collected sends another book to a hospital.

Unlike some other veteran charities in the news lately, we care and are doing this solely for our American veterans.

If you donate the entire $13, a book will be placed at a VA Hospital in your name or anyone’s else’s name or memory. I want to thank you in advance for reaching out to brighten someone’s day during very difficult times.”

For those interested, send your donation to Tom Lambert, 835 Sand Ridge Rd., Bowling Green, Ohio, 43402.

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Plates and Places

Discover the small town charm of Tecumseh By Jennifer Ruple Need an excuse to break up with your weekend routine? Head 40 miles northwest of Toledo to the quaint town of Tecumseh, Michigan. The town’s hub is easily accessible–it’s situated right on M-50 or Chicago Jennifer Ruple Boulevard as it is known locally.

There you’ll find charming eateries; boutiques; antiques shops; a winery, brewery, bakery, and ice cream parlor; and a history museum all within walking distance of each other plus hiking and outdoor adventure nearby.

Upon arrival, visit Lev’s Bakery, a Tecumseh institution.

Rumor has it that their doughnuts and soft, German pretzels (only available on Saturdays) are all the rage, but get there early in the day to indulge as they sell out The Boulevard Market offers artisan quickly. cheeses, handmade chocolates and A stroll along boutique wines.

Antiques shops are abundant in Tecumseh.

the boulevard provides a healthy dose of shopping opportunities. Visit Antiques & Vintage on the Boulevard and Hathaway Antique Emporium to scout out treasures from the past. For gift giving, peruse the floral arrangements, candles, linens and home décor pieces at the DG II gift shop. Into hobbies?

Browse the thousands of plastic kits, train sets, die cast cars, and accessories offered at J-Bar Hobbies.

The sign at The Boulevard Market says it all – wine, chocolate, cheese. Owners John and Erika Aylward craft their own cheeses with fresh local milk and create chocolates using Sicilian chocolate-making techniques. The market also carries specialty foods and offers the best selection of boutique wines in the area. If you feel like staying in Tecumseh longer than just the day, reservations and $89 will get you an

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overnight stay in one of the three hotel rooms located on the second floor of the market.

Speaking of wine, Tecumseh boasts not one but two wineries. Pentamere Winery is an urban venue and tasting room right in the heart of downtown, and J. Trees Cellars is an industrial/farmhouse-style tasting room housed in the historic Hayden-Ford Mill, a short drive from downtown.

When you are ready for a bite to eat, the options are abundant.

Enjoy a relaxing lunch of farm-totable fare at Evans Street Station.

Check into The Dog House for an all-beef hot dog embellished L-R Baylee Baker and Marissa with one of Shoemaker will scoop your favorite their creative flavor at The Spotted Cow. combos like the Junkyard Dog and the Frito Pie Dog, or design your own. Sample the many craft beer varieties along with a cheeseburger and tots at Tecumseh Brewery. For soups, salads and sandwiches with a side of espresso, look no further than The Daily Grind.

After lunch, visit the Tecumseh Area Historical Museum, located in a former church, and learn how the community has developed since it was first settled in Lenawee County in 1824.

Up for a little outdoor recreation? Drive a half mile or so east of downtown on M-50. Indian Crossing Trails Park is a 130-acre park with several walking paths. The one-mile main trail

Visit the Tecumseh Area Historical Museum for a lesson of the past.

winds along River Raisin. For a bit of adventure, visit the adjacent Satterthwaite Park where kayaks, paddleboards, canoes and row boats can be rented from the Tecumseh Paddling Company beginning on weekends in May. With so much to offer, Tecumseh’s inviting personality and close proximity to the Toledo area will beckon you to make a return trip, or two.

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

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Books for Boomers

Do you need a recommendation for a good read? Stop by or give us a call, and your friendly and knowledgeable librarians will recommend books based on your preferences. Here are some staff favorites to help you get started!

By Sue Schafer The Flight of Gemma Hardy, Harper, 2012 Manager, Sylvania Branch,

By Margot Livesey Toledo Lucas County After her widowed father drowns, Gemma Hardy leaves Iceland to Public Library live with a family in Scotland where she encounters many difficulties growing up . Eventually she accepts a post as an au pair on the Orkney Islands where she finds herself attracted to her employer, Mr. Sinclair. When Gemma returns briefly to Iceland to search for her family she understands more about herself. This story is set in the 1950s and 60s.

My Name is Lucy Barton, Random House, 2016

By Elizabeth Strout Set in the mid-1980s, Lucy Barton, hospitalized for nine weeks, is surprised when her estranged mother shows up at her bedside. Her mother talks of local gossip, but underneath the banalities, Lucy senses the love that cannot be expressed. This is the story that Lucy must write about, the one story that has shaped her entire life. A beautiful lyrical story of a mother and daughter and the love they share.

Gratitude, Alfred A. Knopf, 2015

By Oliver Sacks No writer has succeeded in capturing the medical and human drama of illness as honestly and as eloquently as Oliver Sacks. During the last few months of his life, he wrote a set of essays in which he movingly explored his feelings about completing a life and coming to terms with his own death.

Thomas Jefferson and the Tripoli Pirates: The Forgotten War that Changed American History, Sentinel, 2015

By Brian Kilmeade The authors of George Washington’s Secret Six present a pop-history narrative that illuminates a lesser known confrontation between the recently inaugurated third President and Pasha of Tripoli pirates who openly challenged his leadership by attacking American ships.

Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore, Farrar Straus and Giroux, 2012

By Robin Sloan The Great Recession has shuffled Clay Jannon out of his life as a San Francisco webdesign drone and landed him a new gig working the night shift at Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore. But after just a few days on the job, Clay begins to realize that this store is even more curious than the name suggests. There are only a few customers, but they come in repeatedly and never seem to actually buy anything. Soon he embarks on a complex analysis of the customers’ behavior and ropes his friends into helping him figure out just what is going on.

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Crossword fun: U.S. Presidents ACROSS 1. Bit of parsley 6. Jodie Foster’s “___’s Island” 9. Hat-tipper’s word 13. Baby grand, e.g.

14. ____ ____ mode 15. Baggins of the Shire 16. DNA and RNA 17. Any high mountain 18. Daisylike bloom 19. *Hailed as the “Father of the Constitution” 21. *First Republican President 23. Lungful 24. Darn a sock, e.g.

25. Bldg unit 28. *John Adams to John Quincy Adams 30. Soldier’s knapsack 35. Inside scoop 37. 16 of these in Tennessee Ernie Ford song 39. Masonic doorkeeper 40. Smoothie berry 41. *George to George W. 43. Hindu serpent deity 44. Most are now wireless 46. Glacier’s deposit 47. Smiley face 48. Chole____ 50. Windshield option 52. “C’____ la vie!”

53. Number of judges on Supreme Court 55. Leave speechless 57. “On guard” to a fencer 61. *Under him, the

APRIL 2016

White House debuted its website 65. “Will comply” in radio communication 66. One of five W’s 68. Smooth 69. Fill with high spirits 70. Tan maker 71. October 31 option 72. Scarlet and crimson 73. Indeed 74. Hollers DOWN 1. Unwanted correspondence 2. Type of type 3. Policemen’s surprise 4. Calcutta’s home 5. Blake Lively’s “____ Girl” 6. Indian flatbread 7. “____ at ease” 8. Breakfast syrup 9. Catchall abbr.

10. ____phobia, fear of heights 11. Cain’s unfortunate brother 12. Between dawn and noon 15. Movie “Smokey and the ____” 20. Talk like Demosthenes 22. Cartridge contents 24. Official command

25. *First to live in Executive Mansion 26. Lace loop 27. *Clinton signed North American Free ____ Agreement 29. *First “Dark Horse” presidential candidate 31. Sound of a small bell 32. Emanation from a loudspeaker 33. Knight’s breastplate 34. *First to run against a woman 36. Wedding cake layer 38. 18-wheeler 42. Of the kidneys

45. *Liberia’s capital named after him 49. Jar cover 51. “American Horror Story” disgraced clown 54. Full of news 56. Accustom 57. Water carrier 58. World’s longest river 59. Alternative to Saran 60. Parts of play 61. Flipside of pros 62. Asian weight unit 63. *Like President’s office 64. Brooklyn players 67. Tint

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The importance of staying active Exercise your mind and body

By Roseanna Mosiniak As the mind and body age we commonly think it is conversations with friends and family, learning new time to slow down and do less. However, the skills and traveling are all ways to keep your mind opposite is true. It’s important to exercise the mind active. and body to maintain mental function, reduce the It’s important to set yourself up for success to risk of disease, stay physically active and maintain maintain a high quality of life and to achieve flexibility and balance. measurable results with your fitness program.

There are options for individuals of all health and • Make fitness levels to begin or maintain an exercise exercise a regimen. If you don’t currently have a fitness plan, regular part or begin to experience challenges with your current of your day. routine, it’s important to consult with your You’ll be physician. Have a discussion about your goals and less likely to current challenges so you can work together to stop if it’s a develop a plan that will work for your lifestyle. part of your There are four important focus areas for staying everyday active as we age: routine, like brushing teeth. If you are interrupted for travel, illness or injury, you’ll find it easier to start • Aerobic exercises are fundamental for a healthy up again when you’re ready. heart. Try walking or biking with a friend, swimming, or low-impact group fitness classes that • Stick with it. If you can maintain your exercise will elevate your heart rate but are easy on your routine or physical activity for at least 6 months, it’s joints. a good sign that you are on the way to making physical activity a regular habit.

• Strength training produces dramatic results but is also important to prevent muscle loss as we age.

• Make it fun. Exercise doesn’t have to be an Lifting light weights can help to maintain strength in exhausting, sweaty chore that is dreaded. Try a new the arms, legs and core. sport, go dancing, or visit walking trails in the local park system. If you enjoy what you are doing, • Stretching and balance exercises can help relieve you’re more likely to look forward to your workout some symptoms of arthritis and prevent falls. Try a and will stick with it. yoga class or tai chi. The classes provide added benefits of peace and relaxation to help manage • Use the buddy system. Exercising with a friend stress. helps you both be accountable and gives you someone with whom to try new things and laugh!

• Stimulating the brain is important to help prevent the loss of mental function and some forms of dementia.

Roseanna Mosiniak is a Certified Personal Trainer Crossword and Certified Group Fitness Instructor at ProMedica puzzles, Wildwood Athletic Club, where she specializes in word senior fitness. For more information, visit games, www.wildwoodathleticclub.org or call 419/539-0235.

Sudoku,

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Revitalize your garden

Spend more time enjoying it! By Rick Cozza, The Italian Gardener

“What can I do to begin lessening the ongoing upkeep of my yard, so I can spend less time managing it and more time enjoying it?”

Most of our yards were planted when the house was built, often 30 to even 50 years ago. The plants available then were limited, and often purchased by unfamiliar building contractors. They looked good then, but now require a regular regimen of pruning, raking, complaining. Today, the breeders have developed many new plants that fit in the exact space and give you multi-season beauty. So, why not make a change now?

And, while you are at it, let’s also suggest some things to allow you to enjoy your yard a bit more each year as you have a bit more time to enjoy it. Seems logical, don’t you think? But, where to start?

Begin with your entry. Years ago, there were yews, burning bushes, azaleas, rhododendrons and lilacs. By now, the yews either block the front windows or have lost their green centers. Burning bushes are either 10 feet tall, and/or require your attention at least twice a year to keep them manageable (don’t you have better things to do?). Azaleas and rhododendrons love the acid soil on the east coast, and cringe at our alkaline soil here. Consequently, they likely are spindly, woody and less than attractive. Lilacs are either 20 feet tall, or have been hacked back to stubs.

Make this the year of change.

Spend some time and money this year to have them removed, and replaced by some of the lovely new varieties of plants that never outgrow the space you have allotted to them.

Fothergillas were likely never even heard of back then, but are one of my favorites. They grow to 3-5 feet, have lovely bottlebrush flowers in spring, and astounding fall color. You will spend ‘zero’ time pruning them.

There are now dwarf varieties of many of the huge plants of yesteryear, which will fit very nicely into your new, revised front yard. Winterberry Hollies with their wonderful red berries in fall, Dwarf

APRIL 2016

Oakleaf Hydrangeas, with huge white, or now red, pannicles of flowers and rich burgundy fall color.

And there are Dwarf Lilacs that will grow to only four feet tall and wide, new hydrangeas that bloom on new growth instead of old, and will therefore actually bloom in this region after a hard winter. And there are bright, vigorous new perennials that will come back year after year, allowing you to stop buying those same old impatiens year after year for the front walk.

So, make this the year that you cut out that unnecessary work in caring for your outdated landscape. Get some help, get some advice, but get going. Who would not want a Lemon Lace™ Elderberry near the front door?

One of my goals in any landscape is to have visitors (and the owner, too) stop along the way to marvel at the lovely plantings. And, while you are at it, stop at Lily’s At Levis Commons, or check out the aluminum/tubular steel benches at plowandhearth.com to add a new bench for you to sit back and enjoy all you’ve done. It will give you more time to yourself, and isn’t that what you wanted?

Crossword Puzzle Solution

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Personal Finance

Use your smartphone to achieve your financial goals

(StatePoint) Sixty-four percent of American adults with a username and password). have a smartphone, according to Pew Research • Manage your money on-the-go: Use your bank’s Center, and that number is growing. Savvy free money management services like online bill smartphone users are doing a lot more with their pay, mobile check deposit and mobile funds devices than selfies. At the forefront of a transfer. Get peace of mind before heading out for smartphone’s capabilities is on-the-go money holiday shopping. Before purchases, use your management, which personal phone to check account balances finance experts say can be a key and make transfers as needed in tool to helping you achieve your order to avoid overdraft fees. money goals.

• Add automatic account alerts: “Technology advances are giving Preset limits for transactions and banks an opportunity to further purchases, so you can be enhance their customers’ ability to immediately notified when those manage their money,” says Brett limits have been exceeded. This Pitts, Head of Digital for Wells will help you track your spending Fargo Virtual Channels. and prevent you from breaking Want to get a better handle on your budget. You may also wish to your money? Pitts offers some sign up for other notifications, such tips for making your smartphone as when your card is declined, your your own personal banker: balance drops below a certain threshold or a direct deposit posts • Go mobile: You may have used Jeff Creque of Creque’s Greenhouse, to your account. your phone to log into your Sylvania, Ohio, checks his bank account via your bank’s website. balance using his smart phone.

• Get reminded: Make late fees a Check your bank’s mobile thing of the past. Set up calendar application offerings and download its mobile app reminders for credit card payments, mortgages and instead. Using an app designed for device other bill due dates. Your bank’s app may also have readability will make transactions easier and more a built-in reminder feature to help you streamline efficient. When downloading an app to your payments. smartphone, make sure you’re using a trusted • Keep contact details up-to-date: Make sure your source. Make sure you download directly from bank knows how to reach you. For example, some your phone’s app store or your bank’s website. banks notify customers of possible suspicious card • Review functionality: Mobile applications are transactions through text messages – which allow always evolving and improving. Review your customers to reply quickly to confirm whether the bank’s app functionality periodically to ensure transaction is legitimate or not. you’re up-to-date. For example, Wells Fargo just More banking tech tips and resources can be found added several new features to its already robust at wellsfargo.com/mobile. mobile banking suite. Once enabled, customers can Thanks to new user-friendly technologies, being view balance information with its FastLook swipe responsible with your money is easier than ever. feature, as well as be notified of transactions via Be smart with your smartphone and use it to help opt-in push notifications (without having to log in meet your 2016 financial goals.

Join now • SYLVANIA’S

OWN COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION • All members are part owners!

SYLVANIA AREA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

SYLVANIA AREA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

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If you live, work, go to school or volunteer in the Sylvania area, you can become a member. Visit our web site for complete banking services or stop by and see us.

6613 Maplewood Ave. • 419-882-3525 • www.sylvaniaareafcu.com

BOOMERS

& Beyond

Get moving

Community celebrates YMCA opening in Waterville By Jennifer Ruple

Those seeking a healthier lifestyle in the Waterville - Whitehouse area now have another option for fitness and camaraderie. The new Anthony Wayne Community YMCA, located at 1330 Michigan Ave., opened Feb. 24 and includes a wellness center with cardio equipment and free weights, locker and steam rooms, and an exercise studio for dance classes, group exercise classes and personal training.

L-R: Mike Bostdorff of J&R Contracting, Steve Shives, executive director of the Fort Meigs Y, and Mike Denman, board member and volunteer chaplain at the Anthony Wayne Y.

L-R: Jeremiah Wagner is the associate executive director and Gail McNeely is the membership director at the Anthony Wayne Community YMCA in Waterville, Ohio.

L-R: Waterville residents William Salmi and Denise Pollock look forward to using the new equipment and taking yoga classes.

The 10,800 square-foot wellness center is packed with cardio and weight lifting equipment.

L-R: Julie and Bill Verhelst of Swanton are excited about the new programs available at the Y.

L-R: Karen and Tom Wiggins of Waterville receive a tour from Gail McNeely.

L-R: Zac Ries, Anthony Wayne Y board chairman, and Casey Holck, COO of the YMCA of Greater Toledo, attend the grand opening celebration.

WE ARE ONLINE! sylvaniaadvantage.com/boomers-beyond

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! facebook.com/BoomersandBeyondSylvania

APRIL 2016

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GOINGBEYOND

attendEVENTS

getMOVING

Tuesday Latin Dance Class Sunday Short Hort Company C Dance Club, Toledo, Ohio Toledo Botanical Garden Tuesday, May 5, 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Main Campus Conference Center April 3, 9:30 a.m.-Noon Join in for a wonderful time learning how to move A brief horticultural topic followed by light garden to the Latin beat. Classes meet every Tuesday, work. The topic will be dividing perennials. Free $10 per class. For additional information call and open to public.

419/708-2194 or michaltpromotions@gmail.com.

Mud Hens Season Opener Toledo Metroparks Walking Series Fifth Third Field Various Toledo-area Metroparks April 7, 4:05 p.m.

You can walk with a member of the Metroparks staff four days a week. Register online for these Come celebrate the opening day of Hensville and free, 50 minute trail walks. Preregistration is the Mud Hens Opening Day. The Toledo Mud Hens required at www.metroparkstoledo.com. will play the Louisville Bats.

The Metal House Preserve: Extreme Gardening in Small Places Olander Park, Nederhouser Community Hall LivingBetter50.com Tuesday, April 12, 7 p.m.

An online women’s magazine covering Wild Ones is a not-for-profit environmental everything from beauty to business. education and advocacy organization whose GypsyNester.com members promote the use of native plants and Enjoy the humorous chronicles of natural landscaping. The program is free and open discovering the world of becoming to the public, no registration is required. parents of adult children and rediscovering It’s Friday the fun couple who fell in love years ago.

Toledo Museum of Art www.ohio.org Friday, April 22, the museum is open until 10 p.m.

Your adventure starts here! The inside The evening offers an ever-changing combination scoop from around the state. of events for adults and families. The evening includes free tours, activities, live music, glassblowing demonstrations, wine tasting and more. Information regarding the schedule of events can be found at Toledo Zoo www.toledomuseum.org/events/friday/.

searchWEBSITES

discoverTRAVEL

serveVOLUNTEER

2 Hippo Way, Toledo, Ohio The Zoo Educator program is a year-round volunteer opportunity for adults who have great people skills, love of animals, nature and conservation. If Schedel Arboretum and Gardens interested, contact the volunteer coordinator at Elmore, Ohio 419/385-5721, ext. 20145 or Visitors are welcome to admire the beauty and to volunteers@toledozoo.org. enjoy an opportunity for quiet reflection on the 17 Olander Park acres of gardens. Art abounds at the Arboretum 6930 W. Sylvania Ave., Sylvania, Ohio and Gardens with garden sculptures and art shows Special events volunteers needed for Annual Easter year round. For more information call 419/862Egg Hunt and Kid’s Trout Derby. Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks from arts/crafts to 3182 or www.schedelgardens.org. fishing assistance. If interested call 419/882-8313 Magee Marsh Wildlife Area or email info@olanderpark.com State Route 2, west of Port Clinton, Ohio Toledo Area Humane Society Magee March Wildlife Area supports an abundance 827 Illinois Ave., Maumee, Ohio of wildlife, but is best known as one of the top Volunteer activities involve direct contact with animals, birding spots in North America. Special events, other non-animal opportunities available. All volunteer naturalist programs and bird walks are scheduled projects help to improve the quality of life for the throughout the year. For more information, call animals in the Toledo area. More information is 419/898-0960, ext. 31. available by calling 419/891-0705.