Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond - March/April 2016

Boomer Northeast Ohio

MARCH/APRIL 2016

88 SPRING THINGS

and Can’t-Miss Events

FREE

and Beyond OPTIMISM REPORT

Don’t Worry, Be Happier GAME ON

An Indians Fan Preview DRESS UP

Makeovers For Real People

& h R e s n e e r w f e R INDIA PIERCE LEE

GROWING LETTUCE AND CHANGING LIVES ONE HEAD AT A TIME

CURTAINS UP — GRAB A SEAT AT THE FILM FESTIVAL

SSP

SOLOMON, STEINER & PECK LTD.

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

EldEr law and EstatE Planning • Special Needs

• Elder Law

• Disability, Medicaid and Veterans Benefits Planning

• Probate and Trust Administration

• Corporate and Succession Planning

• Estate Planning

Michael L. Solomon

Laurie G. Steiner

Jennifer E. Peck

Masters In Tax Law

Certified Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation

OSBA Certified in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law

msolomon@ssandplaw.com

lsteiner@ssandplaw.com

jpeck@ssandplaw.com

Solomon, Steiner & Peck, Ltd.

6105 Parkland Boulevard, Suite 140, Mayfield Heights, Ohio 44124 Telephone 216.765.0123, www.SSandPlaw.com

Call (216) 765-0123 For More Information Join us each week as we sit down with our team of experts to bring you the best legal, financial, medical and lifestyle information you need to know as you age.

Catch Golden Opportunities Every Sunday Morning at 11:30 on WKYC Channel 3 To contact our Kitchen Conversation Line call: 440-742-GOTV (4688) Check out Golden Opportunities on YouTube.com and Golden Opportunities TV on Facebook

INSIDE

March/April

50 THROWBACK

FE ATU R E S

YEAR: 1965 The Debut

16

of a Teen Magazine Classic

DE PARTM E NTS

REFRESH YOUR STYLE

14 MIND MATTERS

Make Room for Improvement, Inside and Out

A 70s Quiz for TV Lovers

24 TRAVEL

18

Include all Generations for a Not-to-Be-Forgotten Trip

CATCHING ZZZZS

30 LEGAL

Fall Asleep – and Stay that Way

20

26

PLAY BALL! Tribe Time and the View from One Fan’s Seat

ON THE COVER India Pierce Lee inside Green City Growers.

Photography by Michael Blair

22

THE POWER OF YES

43

Cultivate Optimism, and Let It Grow

SPRING EVENTS

35

Scammed Protect Yourself and Loved Ones from Common Cons

31 PETS

Pet Pain Identify, Treat Source to Help Heal Your Best Friend

32 HOME & STYLE

Spring Renewal Fast Fixups Under $500

34 FITNESS

Exercise for Head to Toe Health

Tours and Eats for Moms, the Artistry of Fiber

Independent Living SHOWCASE

15

A SPRINGTIME POEM

4

Your Journey - Your Life

12

CLEVELAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Sit back and Enjoy

20

EDITOR’S NOTE

CULTIVATING A FRESH START

R

efresh and Renew Those are my goals for spring. Most of the time the reality is much different. That’s why there’s a bucket of soapy water and a mop by the back door. I’m trying to refresh, but it’s tough during Ohio’s mud season.

Thanks to the dogs, I battle a constant onslaught of sloppy paw prints. The place looks like a barn.

The good news is that by early May the bucket goes back in the closet. I’ll soon turn my attention to the outdoors. The mud that bothered me in March and April fades to just another hallmark of the season, as predictable as the forsythia blooming along the side yard and the birds frantically making nests in my wreaths.

In my search for an early spring, I came upon our cover subject, the dynamic India Pierce Lee and Green City Growers. She’s one of the public faces for several vibrant community programs aimed at bolstering distressed neighborhoods. Her warm enthusiasm and the lush lettuces and microgreens growing in the sprawling greenhouse close to downtown are the perfect antidote to a chilly early spring day.

To continue the theme, our main feature story this issue (pg. 22) is about cultivating optimism. It’s a worthy goal, especially at this time of year. Full disclosure — I’m a pessimist at heart. I like the idea of optimism, and most of the time I’m able to fake it with smiles, positive thoughts, a good book and a new lipstick. But I’ve found that nature is far more powerful than anything I can nurture in that department. I picked up some good tips from our story and learned that optimism is possible even in difficult times. Please note the accompanying story about pessimism. It’s not such a bad thing after all; the world needs us.

That story addresses our inner lives. Another in this issue concerns our outer lives, or how we present ourselves through our clothing. I’m a sucker for makeovers. It started when I was a kid and saw Dorothy and the crew’s transformation in Oz, and it has continued to any and all TV or magazine makeover stories I come across. I hope you enjoy our version (pg. 16).

And, finally, page through our extensive list of area events offered during the next couple of months. Whether you’re a joiner or a loner, a homebody or an outdoor enthusiast, get out of your comfort zone and embrace the season. I’m positive you’ll find a good fit.

Boomer Northeast Ohio

and Beyond

MARCH/APRIL 2016 Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond is a property of Mitchell Media LLC PO Box 1088 Hudson, OH 44236 330-822-4011 /NEOhio​Boomer

​/​NEOhio​Boomer​

PUBLISHER Brad Mitchell brad@northeastohio​boomer.com 330-714-7712 EDITOR​ M​arie Elium​ ​marie@northeastohio​boomer.com MANAGING EDITOR​​ Angela Gartner angela@northeastohio​boomer.com EDITORIAL SUGGESTIONS editor@​​northeastohio​boomer.com CALENDAR LISTING SUBMISSIONS calendar@​​northeastohio​boomer.com CONTRIBUTORS Estelle Rodis-Brown, Glen Miller, June Scharf, Traci McBride, Margaret Briller, Dr. Anna M. van Heeckeren, Jeff Tomaszewski, Laurie G. Steiner, Kathryn Kilpatrick ​​DESIGNER​​ Laura Chadwick laura@northeastohio​boomer​.com ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER Sherry Lundberg sherry@northeastohio​boomer.com ADVERTISING SALES Chris Geer, 330-614-8471 chris@northeastohio​boomer.com Janyse Heidy, 330-671-3886 janyse@northeastohio​boomer.com Samantha Olp, 330-636-6127 sam@northeastohio​boomer.com Yvonne Pelino, 561-307-4177 yvonne@northeastohio​boomer.com Michelle Vacha, 440-463-0146 michelle@northeastohio​boomer.com OFFICE MANAGER Kathleen Mitchell, 440-533-1208 kathleen@northeastohio​boomer.com DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES info@northeastohio​boomer.com PUBLISHERS OF

6

Your Journey - Your Life

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

Kelsey Loushin President Eldercare Professionals of Ohio

Sharon Dundee Manager of Marketing, Communications & Events Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center

Stephanie Manning Development Coordinator Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging

Kathy M. Hirko Owner KAZ Company

Bob Pontius Marketing Director Stow Glen Retirement Village

Jeanne Hoban Marketing Communications Director Benjamin Rose Institute

Leslie Royce Resnik President Royce Public Relations

Kathryn Kilpatrick President Memory Fitness Matters, LLC

Laurie G. Steiner Partner Solomon, Steiner & Peck, Ltd.

Susan Lieberman Director of Marketing & Public Relations Montefiore and The Weils

Nancy Udelson President and CEO Alzheimer’s Association Cleveland Area Chapter

Find Your FrEE copY at ovEr 550 Locations • Libraries • Senior Centers • Fitness/ Recreation Centers • Doctor/ Dentist offices • Hospitals • Salons, Spas, Cafes

Look For thE

MaY/JunE issue on May 11!

Boomer

FREE

Northeast Ohio

MARCH/APRIL 2016

and Beyond OPTIMISM REPO

88

RT

Don’t Worry, Be Happier

SPRING THINGS

and Can’t-Miss Events

GAME ON

An Indians Fan Preview DRESS UP

Makeovers For Real People

esh & Renew Refr INDIA PIERCE LEE

UCE AND GROWING LETT A TIME S ONE HEAD AT CHANGING LIVE

A SEAT CURTAINS UP — GRAB

IVAL AT THE FILM FEST

Suggest a new location to us at distribution@northeastohioboomer.com

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

7

WORTH NOTING

Calling all

TREE HUGGERS (and Climbers) TREETOP FUN AT HOLDEN ARBORETUM

C

elebrate Arbor Day at Holden Arboretum with a visit through the treetops and a presentation by a tree canopy expert, which are planned throughout the weekend from Friday, April 29 through Sunday, May 1 at the arboretum’s Corning Visitor Center.

“Out on a Limb – Exploration of Global Forest Canopies,” will also be the featured Arbor Day lecture at 7 p.m. Friday. The speaker, Meg Lowman, Chief of Science and Sustainability at the California Academy of Sciences, is an internationally known tree canopy researcher and the author of “Life in the Treetops.” The lecture is free and open to the public, but registration is required.

Come join the nationallycelebrated observance that encourages tree planting and care. Guided tree climbing, crafts, portable sawmill demonstrations and character presentations by Johnny Appleseed and John Muir are just a few of the family friendly activities that are planned at Holden from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Admission to the grounds is free Friday. Non-arboretum member tickets for the Canopy Walk and Emergent Tower are $4 for adults, $2 for children. On Saturday and Sunday, non-member discount admission is $10 per car or $20 per car (which includes admission to the Canopy Walk/Emergent Tower) while supplies last.

Holden Arboretum is located at 9500 Sperry Road in Kirtland. For more information, including specific event times, visit holdenarb.org or call 440-946-4400.

MOVING DAY CLEVELAND

Parkinson’s Event Raises Money, Awareness Register now for Moving Day Cleveland, a walk for Parkinson’s disease awareness. The event is Saturday, June 18 from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Wade Oval, University Circle. The honorary chair is Tim Tolman, Cleveland Indians player/personnel advisor and former bench coach, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2010. Register as an individual or a team at movingdaycleveland.org.

8

Your Journey - Your Life

WARBLERS, ANYONE? Migrate over to Magee Marsh for a Springtime Birding Adventure

Lake Erie’s southern shorelines are known throughout the world as prime bird watching sites. One of the best is just west of Cleveland at Magee Marsh.

From the end of April through about the third week of May, thousands of neo-tropical birds gather at the protected shoreline before making the exhausting flight north over Lake Erie to their summer nesting areas. These birds call Central and South America their homes during our cold winter months, then travel thousands of miles to raise their young in the north.

The second and third weeks of May are prime times to see North American warblers, including vireos. About 30 species of warblers often arrive during the peak migration. In all, visitors have seen 300 species at the 2,000-acre marsh, including raptors, flycatchers and orioles.

Magee Marsh is located off state Route 2 in Oak Harbor about one hour from Cleveland.

Visit mageemarsh.org for information about hours, parking, trails and updated bird sightings.

BOOK SHELF HISTORY, MYSTERY AND AN ILL-FATED OCEAN LINER

Spring ahead with these favorites from the staff at the Highland Square branch of the Akron-Summit County Public Library GIRL WAITS WITH GUN

by Amy Stewart While conducting research for one of her six nonfiction books, author Amy Stewart ran across the real-life news story that inspired this book. The year was 1914 and sisters Constance, Norma and Fleurette Kopp, and the horse-drawn carriage they occupied, were struck by Henry Kaufmann and his motor vehicle in Paterson, New Jersey. When the sisters try to collect a reasonable fee for damages, Mr. Kaufmann and his goons retaliate.

The situation escalates and before long, the sisters find out they are dealing with a truly dangerous man.

DEAD WAKE: THE LAST CROSSING OF THE LUSITANIA

by Erik Larson Author Erik Larson had a huge hit a few years ago in “Devil in the White City.”

Here, he follows the same formula of bringing historic events we thought we knew to life, through the eyes of those who were there.

THE MARTIAN

by Andy Weir Only rarely do fans of movies enjoy the source books, and vice-versa, but this is one of those rarities that manages it. No movie aliens here, just the cold realities of surviving an impossibly unforgiving environment.

CHILL FACTOR

by Sandra Brown Five women are missing from the sleepy mountain town of Cleary, North Carolina, and a blue ribbon has been left near where each woman was last seen. There are no bodies, no clues, and no suspects. Now, successful magazine editor, Lilly Martin, has returned to Cleary to close the sale of her cabin. But when her car skids and strikes a stranger as he emerges from the woods, they have no choice but to wait out a brutal blizzard in the cabin. And as the hours of their confinement mount, Lilly wonders if the greater threat to her safety isn’t the storm, but the stranger beside her.

EDITOR’S PICK

THE GLASS CASTLE

by Jeannette Walls Extreme poverty and dysfunctional parents are the cornerstone of this tender memoir. I loved this fascinating and soulful account of a resilient child who overcomes a bizarre background. It’s been a favorite of book clubs and college classrooms since its publication several years ago, grabbing readers from its opening paragraphs. One of my all-time favorites.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

9

WORTH NOTING

Take a Trip Through Childhood All Ages Welcome at Big Fun’s Anniversary Celebration

Sock Monkeys, tie-dyed onesies, vintage lunch boxes, troll dolls – meander through the aisles and grab a piece of your childhood at Big Fun toy store.

The popular spot is celebrating its 25th anniversary April 1 with discounts, cake, giveaways and entertainment throughout the weekend. Check out the action figures, try on some silly glasses and reminisce about the days when life was simple — and a lot of fun.

Big Fun annually makes the “Best of” lists for places to shop and browse. See for yourself what’s so fun at Big Fun. The store is located at 1814 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights. For hours and more information, visit bigfuntoystore.com

D

Strengthen the Mind — Challenge the Memory

o you remember the last thing you forgot?

It’s okay and normal to forget things occasionally. Everyone does.

If it happens more than you would like, or if you notice a change in your memory and brain function, it may be time for a memory screening.

The Center 4 Brain Health on the Menorah Park Campus is registered as a Community Awareness-Raising and Education Site (C.A.R.E.S.) with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

Screenings are available by appointment throughout the year. The free screenings take only about 15 minutes, and the public is invited to come and

10

Your Journey - Your Life

bring a friend or family member.

In addition to brain screenings, the center also offers classes designed to strengthen a participant’s memory and problem-solving skills, to teach meditation exercises and to help them master stress relief techniques — all designed to improve memory and cognition.

Do you need support? Care partners for individuals with memory and thinking concerns can attend the Center’s Care Partner Support Groups held from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month.

The Brain Health Information Resource Center provides education, support, and materials for various aspects of brain health including: nutrition, diet, cognitive and physical exercise, sleep, emotional wellness, and personal health concerns such as high blood pressure, stroke, and medications.

For more information on classes, or to make an appointment for a memory screening, contact Krystal L. Culler, Center 4 Brain Health, at 216-839-6685 or email center4brainhealth@menorahpark. org. or visit center4brainhealth.org.

HELP WANTED

Volunteers

Like to Read? Like Kids?

A Sale for a Cause Many of us probably have furnishings or accessories in our home that we no longer need or want. Why not donate those items to help people touched by cancer?

The Gathering Place Warehouse accepts gently used home furnishings and accessories throughout the year.

The items are sold during weekend sales. Proceeds pay for free programs and services at The Gathering Place for families and individuals dealing with cancer.

The warehouse was started by three women, Margo Roth, Marcia Schumann and Ellen Neye, as a way to help sustain The Gathering Place.

Volunteers visit homes, preview donations and help pack and move them to the warehouse at no cost to the donor. Contributions are tax deductible.

Once the items are delivered to the warehouse courtesy of Berman Movers, volunteers price the items and display them for sale.

The warehouse sales have generated more than $1 million for The Gathering Place. For more information on The Gathering Place Warehouse call 216-595-9546 or visit touchedbycancer.org/warehouse.

Anyone who loves to read knows that it can transform your life. Many children struggle with this basic skill. Fourth graders who can’t read at grade-level are four times less likely to graduate from high school.

Experience Corps is focused on ensuring children can read by the end of third grade.

That’s why Greater Cleveland Volunteers is again recruiting tutors for its partnership with the AARP Foundation Experience Corps to help Cleveland school children become great readers.

Volunteers 50 and older who can pass a criminal background check are invited to tutor students in kindergarten through third grade.

In a single school year, students who worked with Experience Corps tutors achieved 60 percent more improvement in critical literacy skills than their peers.

AARP Foundation Experience Corps has nearly 3,000 volunteers working in 22 cities where schools in lower-income districts have demonstrated a need for help meeting their state-mandated reading requirements. Each Experience Corps site operates one of three different tutoring models including one-on-one, group or classroom assistance (where volunteers work with teachers to tutor and coach during classroom activities).

Volunteers provide an average of 6-15 hours of support each week throughout the school year.

AARP Foundation Experience Corps fights a major contributor to poverty — overwhelmed public schools — by providing older adults and children an opportunity to improve their lives through literacy and volunteering.

To learn more, contact Greater Cleveland Volunteers at 216-391-9500 or visit greaterclevelandvolunteers.org.

UPCOMING WAREHOUSE SALE DATES • Saturday, April 16 & Sunday, April 17 • Saturday, May 21 & Sunday, May 22 • Saturday, June 25 & Sunday, June 26 • Saturday, July 30 & Sunday, July 31 Sale hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sundays. The warehouse is located at 4911 Commerce Parkway, Warrensville Heights. Cash or credit card only.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

11

Fun IN THE

Dark

CHOOSE YOUR MOVIES AND HEAD DOWNTOWN TO THE CLEVELAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

W

hen the 40th annual Cleveland International Film Festival kicks off March 30, at least 100,000 people are expected to attend the 12-day movie marathon in theaters around Northeast Ohio.

“We like to say there’s something in this festival for everyone,” says Patrick Shepherd, CIFF associate director. “People hear “international film festival” and they think they’re walking into a film with subtitles, and that’s true for some, with films from over 60 countries. But it’s a wide selection of films and lots of documentaries.”

12

Your Journey - Your Life

The CIFF offers a great opportunity not only to see unusual and highly regarded films, but also to interact with the people who make them, he adds.

“A lot of times the credits will roll and the lights go up and the director or an actor or the subject of a documentary is there and there are discussions,” Shepherd says.

PLENTY OF CHOICES From family-friendly films, which are perfect for all ages, to intense documentaries and quirky feature films, choices are broad and the selection vast.

“Some people want a film

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CLEVELAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Top: Post-film speaker after “Finding the Gold Within.”

Middle: The festival draws huge crowds to downtown theaters. Bottom: Actor Hans Obma during a “Meet the Filmmakers” segment last year.

from their ancestral homeland.

Others want to see films of women of the world,” Shepherd says.

An average of 45 screenings are held each day starting around 9:15 a.m. The late shows begin Fridays and Saturdays with 11:30 p.m. screenings. In all, around 400 films will be shown. More than 500 screenings are scheduled.

Most films are in the Tower City Cinemas, offering a convenient way to see movies all day, every day throughout the event, Shepherd says.

One way to plan your day – or days – at the festival is to look at the festival program and choose a category of films to see. The program meticulously indexes the films to make it easy for visitors to find a good film fit, he adds.

This year, join thousands of others for some “fun in the dark.”

“Film is very accessible,” Shepherd adds. “It’s something that most people have an affinity for in one way or another.”

A 204-page guide and schedule is available online at clevelandfilm.org.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

13

MIND MATTERS

TEST YOUR MEMORY – WITH 70S STYLE Fill in the blanks with the name of the person associated with each role. Choose your answers from the names listed below:

Brain Games UPGRADE YOUR MEMORY FITNESS ROUTINE

Lee Majors

Tony Randall

Jean Stapleton

Redd Foxx

Shirley Jones

Richard Thomas

Dennis Weaver

Peter Falk

Example The Rockford Files _J_ _A_ _M_ _E_ _S_ G __ A __ R __ N __ E __ R __ McCloud __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ The Odd Couple __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ The Partridge Family __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ All in the Family __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ Columbo __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ Sanford and Son __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ The Waltons __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ The Six Million Dollar Man __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ Game courtesy of Kathryn Kilpatrick, memory fitness specialist. For information about her programs, products or blogs visit www.memoryfitnessmatters.com

14

Your Journey - Your Life

ARTS

Vernal Pool Black mirror.

Dark wet womb.

Soft nursery padded with old leaves returned as gifts of gravity and time.

You are not fooled.

Stillness waries you, holding you as stone until you hear the wood frogs splashing song out over everything, not having caught your presence as you are now catching theirs.

You smile.

Nancy MacDermott, 80, is a sister of Notre Dame in Chardon. Her poem took first place in the Geauga County Parks District’s Annual Nature Writing Contest.

MacDermott says she has to live somewhere that has all four seasons. “I love them all,” she says.”I spend as much time as I can outdoors. I don’t plan things out in the beginning. I feed myself (ideas), or nature feeds me.”

For information about the Geauga Park District’s 21st Annual Nature Writing Contest, visit gpdwhatsnew.com.

Submissions are due April 13.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

15

Refresh YOUR

STYLE

TRY A CLOTHING, SKIN AND ATTITUDE MAKEOVER

By Traci McBride Photograhy By Mark Nowak

Linda is super comfy yet put together using texture, print and color. Note how she has fun with her polka dot eyewear. Bill wears his favorite lightweight bold sweater.

W

hat happens when you style a professional photographer and a retired rocket scientist?

They become one of the most inspiring and fashionable couples around.

Linda Ford of North Olmsted wanted to refresh and streamline the remnants of her former corporate life to better reflect her current passion, capturing milestone life moments as a photographer. She started with her closet and turned to Traci McBride, a wardrobe stylist and

16

Your Journey - Your Life

founder of STYLEDbyTee.com.

“Working with a wardrobe stylist gave me a freedom I never had before,” Ford says. “Learning why certain items worked and others didn’t was eye-opening – it wasn’t me, it was the cut of the clothes.

I have more space in my closet, clothes I love that express me

and mix into so many unique outfits, and a “Look Book” so I just effortlessly recreate outfits every day. My style is fun and expressive, which is how I live my life.”

Her husband Bill, says, “It’s priceless to have a wardrobe that easily transitions and layers into my on-the-go life, supporting my beautiful wife on photo shoots, enjoying activities with our grand kids and traveling around the world. “My style is colorful and complementary to the love of my life.”

TIPS TO REFRESH YOUR WARDROBE FOR GUYS AND GALS It’s easy to bring more color into your life and wardrobe.

Have a Power Color Analysis done and build a wardrobe in your best palette.

If dark has been your go-to, bring in color with your shoes or purse. Guys, move outside your comfort zone and add shirts, Winter white easily dresses Men have long been mixing polos or socks with a up for networking. Layer a prints like this. The v-neck vest pop of bold color. pashmina on a cold evening frames his face and the silhouGet color next to to glam it up even more. ette flatters his build. your face.

QUICK TIP Add a statement neckREFRESH YOUR lace, tie or DATING PROFILE scarf in a Have a professional photo CLOSET DETOX pop of shoot so you can have different your best •A void hanging onto sizes that no shots on each platform you color. longer fit you; they are using valuable use – this tells more about you Be real estate in the closet. Remove what authentically. Have photos of aware doesn’t reflect who you are now, and you walking your dog, riding of how embrace your ‘now’ body. a bike, cooking and other differactivities that you want a • Fit is next. Try on every item in front of ent color partner to do a mirror. Note what needs to be tailored shades influwith you. and consider the costs involved. Do you ence your face, love the item enough to reinvest in it? eyes, blemishes and • Proportion is key. Too long or too wide for your body the delicate skin under looks sloppy. your eyes.

Eyewear is a daily • Subtle details make all the difference. Mix pin stripes accessory — have and plaid as Bill did in the photo. Play with your clothes some fun with it and and create new combinations by shopping in your closet. stop playing it safe • Pitch tired, dated or uncomfortable accessories. with black. If your skin tone is warm, go • Find a friend. It’s difficult to be objective about yourself - find for tortoise or army others who see your best assets and consider their opinions. green. Cool underNeed support to best use your closet space? Wholly-Organized. tones? Go for red com specializes in people 50 and older who are ready to or navy. maximize their spaces.

SHARE AS YOU RENEW, REFRESH AND REJUVENATE Give back by donating those items you’ve identified that no longer honor your body and renewed style. Consider dressforsuccess.org/cleveland for office attire for women. Guys, share your items with thecitymission.org.

Recycle your money and sell your clothes on consignment by visiting itssoyouboutique.com or if you prefer cash on the spot, clothesmentor.com.

TIPS TO REJUVENATE SKIN FOR EVERYONE Irene Hatziantoniou, skin expert and owner of North Coast Aesthetic Center in Westlake (NCASkincare.com) says, “A few fine lines here, a hint of gray there, are normal changes of aging.

We cannot stop the aging process but we can slow it down. With good skin rejuvenation products and facial treatments for your skin type that don’t involve surgery (this is a key factor), there are plenty of options for women and men over 50 who want to enhance the natural beauty of their skin.”

KEY TIPS YOU CAN DO AT HOME 1. STOP SMOKING - smoking prematurely ages skin 2. EAT RIGHT AND HYDRATE — skin will glow 3. PROTECT SKIN FROM THE SUN — use sunscreen 4. USE PROPER CLEANSER AND MOISTURIZER for your skin type 5. TRY TOPICAL VITAMIN C to give skin a boost

Traci McBride, a wardrobe stylist, founded STYLEDbyTee.com in 2008. She networks throughout Northeast Ohio and serves on several boards supporting non-profit groups that elevate women. She is passionate about writing, speaking and teaching confidence and selflove through one’s wardrobe.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

17

HEALTH

Catching I

f somnolence (also known as sleepiness) is what eludes you, then it’s time to start taking the problem more seriously.

Sleep issues often can be underdiagnosed because people think it’s just part of getting older, and they don’t raise their concerns with a doctor. That’s the word from a local sleep expert who’s made a career out of helping people fall — and stay asleep.

THE AGE FACTOR “Don’t give up hope,” says Dr. Dennis Auckley, Director of MetroHealth’s Center for Sleep Medicine and associate professor of sleep medicine at Case Western Reserve University.

He cautions those suffering from sleep challenges to distinguish between the many causes of disruption, some of which are natural.

“Sleep architecture changes with age,” he says. “A person may sleep the same amount as in the past but they’re in a lighter stage when

18

Your Journey - Your Life

they aren’t dreaming and can be awakened easily, leading to the perception that they are not sleeping as well. It’s just normal physiology.”

Sleeping is an activity that consumes one third of our lives. It’s hard to ignore the role it plays, so disruption to it requires serious consideration.

SLEEPLESSNESS CAUSES Two common causes of sleep disruption include apnea and menopause symptoms of hot flashes and hormone imbalance. Up to 18 percent of people 55 -70 suffer from apnea, and among those, three to five percent require therapy.

Snoring, a byproduct of apnea or its own issue, eventually becomes widespread as people get older. By age 50, 60 percent of men and 40 percent of women snore. By age 60, 55 percent of people snore, Dr. Kingman Strohl, Director of Sleep Medicine at University Hospitals Case Medical Center and a professor of medicine at

Case Western Reserve University says.

The most common treatments for both apnea and snoring include weight loss, oral appliances, a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device, increasing fitness levels and positional therapy such as sleeping on your side.

Regarding menopause, the loss of progesterone and estrogen, which are factors in brain health, are causes of disruption along with hot flashes. Also, as a general part of aging, “molecules in the brain that put you to sleep and wake you up are not as coordinated as they once were,” he says.

Dr. Strohl’s approach to addressing and diagnosing the problem begins with a sleep inventory, paying particular attention to medications since some promote wakefulness or sleepiness. Those include antidepressants, steroids, blood pressure medicine, beta blockers, antihistamines, pain medicine and sedatives which can lead to daytime tiredness.

Dr. Auckley notes that restless leg

Zzzzs syndrome is not uncommon, but underdiagnosed and disturbs the falling asleep process in 5-10 percent of the population. “It’s treatable with medicine.”

ALCOHOL, CAFFEINE MAY BE CULPRITS Many behaviors can lead to sleep disruption too, says Dr. Strohl.

Alcohol consumption is a “devious one,” he says, because it helps people fall asleep but after it’s metabolized, “arousal comes roaring back.” He also notes that caffeine can be a culprit since it’s metabolized three to four times slower after age 50.

In cases where sleep disruption is “event initiated,” such as with anxiety from the death of a loved one, a health diagnosis or other forms of stress, “insomnia is probably appropriate,” Dr. Strohl says.

“The statistics on sleep disruption reflect that women complain more, but not by much. Over

Fall Asleep – and Stay That Way — with Lifestyle Changes, Professional Help — By June Scharf

people’s lifetime, very few don’t have complaints,” Dr. Strohl adds.

At any one time in the adult population, 30 percent will suffer from poor, disrupted or inadequate sleep, and between ages 40-85, 70 percent will have occasional bouts of it. Five to 10 percent will require a doctor’s help.

NOW WHAT? How long should it take for a person to fall asleep, and how much sleep should be enough for a person to feel good?

Dr. Strohl says 20-25 minutes is typically how long it takes, although “many expect it to take two minutes, and if it takes 30 minutes, they complain.” Generally, six- to seven- and a half hours of sleep should be enough to feel refreshed.

Sleep stages follow a biological sequence of events, he adds, that first involve local brain regions, beginning with the frontal cortex, then cascading to the back of the brain and

creating retrograde amnesia where a person can recall none of the process of falling asleep.

Reading is the best medicine to enhance the process of falling asleep, Dr. Strohl says. It forces the mind to focus on something other than stressful events, and it’s a cue to relax.

His best advice for a good night’s sleep? Keep a log or a sleep inventory for two or three weeks to help you or your physician determine what’s keeping you up at night and then make changes on your own or seek help from a professional.

As we age, we may not “sleep like a baby” anymore, but a change in habits — and in some instances medicine or machines — can put a good night’s sleep within reach.

Sweet dreams.

June Scharf is a feature writer based in Beachwood.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

19

Play Ball!

Michael Brantley

BASEBALL SEASON IS ALWAYS A HIT FOR THIS LONG-TIME INDIANS FAN

By Margaret Briller

A

Cleveland Indians game is all about having fun. When the cry “Play Ball” goes out, those two words send shivers down the spine of most Indians fans. In the next few hours something exciting is going to happen, and the ballpark will be filled with cheers (and maybe a few groans). No one knows that feeling better than long-time Indians season ticket holder Terry Bittner, 58, who will be there cheering on the Tribe with his family and friends.

Hope runs eternal for the 2016 season and for Bittner, this season is going to be another great ride.

WHAT IS YOUR FIRST RECOLLECTION OF THE CLEVELAND INDIANS IN YOUR LIFE? In 1965, I received a 9-volt transistor radio for my birthday which I could hide under my pillow at night

and listen to the games. Back then, Vic Davalillo and Sam McDowell were my favorites. I remember on Opening Day going to school with a book that I had cut all the pages out of so I could hold the radio in the center and hide it from the teacher. I ran the ear plug wire up my sleeve and turned my head so the teacher couldn’t see what I was doing. Of course I got caught, but I remember the principal asking me what the score was before sending me back to the classroom.

DID YOU GO TO GAMES WITH YOUR FAMILY? Tribe games were definitely family events. The place is so friendly. I’d hold my youngest son on my lap and my two other kids and my wife, Cheryl, would enjoy the game from our other three seats. The kids are now 32 (Andy), 28 (Molly) and 26 (Cory).

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE CLEVELAND INDIANS

20

Your Journey - Your Life

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS SEASON? Hitting, hitting, hitting and some improved defense. I’m counting on the pitching to be there. We have plenty of good arms, and some that will get better with time, be it maturity or just recovering from injury or surgery.

WHAT IS THE BEST GAME YOU’VE SEEN? It has to be as we ended the 2013 season with that 10-game winning streak to make the playoffs. Giambi came up in the bottom of the ninth and hit the walk off, pinch-hit, home run. What a crazy night and two weeks that was.

HOW LONG HAS YOUR GROUP OF INDIANS FANS WHICH PLAYERS ARE WORTH TRACKING THIS BEEN TOGETHER? SEASON? There’s been a group of 8-10 since Opening Day in I’m keeping a close eye on Michael 1994, but the names have changed over the Brantley’s surgery and recovery time. years as people have come and gone.

It is crazy to think he’s ahead of Thinking back, I bet half of the origischedule when you’re talking nal guys are retired and unfortuabout a shoulder injury and nately, a couple have passed surgery. Knees are one away. I’ve learned who are thing, shoulders are anreal Tribe fans and who other. Lonnie Chisenhall aren’t. Other than me, only is my dark horse for the two other guys have stayed year. Right field seemed true for all these years. to fit him well in August and September last year, WHAT DOES THE AVID but let’s see where he fits INDIANS FAN BRING TO THE GAME BESIDES A WINNING in. As a number one pick, you ATTITUDE? want to see things fall in place for Terry Bittner (right) with Ninety percent of the time I bring my everyone and at about $2.7 million, he’s a bargain as a power hitter if things go well. friend Gregg Adams and wife, a pencil for the scorecard and a bag of Terry’s daughter, Molly peanuts. The place just brings a smile to my and his wife, Cheryl. face as you see dads with daughters, famiWHAT EXPECTATIONS DO YOU HAVE FOR THIS SEASON? lies celebrating special events and Slider This will be our year. Better defense, great pitchdoing something goofy all the time. Every once in a ing, much improved hitting and only the Kansas awhile you have to remember there’s a ballgame going City Royals stand in our way. Last year there was on, as there are so many positive distractions throughtoo much pressure on everyone. This year we’re out the place that keep your energy levels high. not supposed to be number one, although we are to be good, so maybe we can catch some people sleeping in April and get off to a good start. A good Margaret Briller is a freelance writer start brings confidence to our bats, gloves and fills from Northeast Ohio who is nurturing the seats in June, July and August, which will add a her sports gene this summer. game or two in the win column.

Kids Clubhouse — BALLPARK PLAY AREA CATERS TO YOUNG FANS Entertaining kids and grandkids at the ballpark should begin at the Kids Clubhouse, a two-story complex of free interactive activities for kids of all ages.

Here are a few of the activities kids can enjoy at the Kids Clubhouse: See Sliders Field, a small-scale baseball field where young fans dream of hitting a homer out of the park.

Climb into a 3D player cutout to get kids’ pictures taken as a batter, catcher or sliding runner or have the kids record themselves calling the game or play in the media booth.

Slide down the Baseball Bat Slide,

a massive Indians bat that spans two floors.

Peek inside the Indians locker room and take a virtual tour. Lockers along the back wall are filled with authentic playe r ite m s from different eras in Indians history for kids to explore and to try on for photos.

Visit the Hot Corner, an interactive wall simulating what a third baseman’s corner is like while testing speed and reaction time.

Attempt a Circus Catch with different baseballs mounted at different heights along a wall to test vertical jumping ability.

Test kids’ arms at the Pitching S im ul ato r by standing in front of a virtual batter and throwing a real baseball at a target.

Be sure to visit the Kids Clubhouse when you go to an Indians game. There’s so much to see, do and learn that you can have just as much fun as your kids.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

21

The Power of Yes Cultivate Optimism, and Let It Grow

By Estelle Rodis-Brown

L

ike many life skills, optimism doesn’t come as easily as it did when we were 20.

Optimism is an exercise we can practice. We can attain it — and maintain it — if we put in the effort and keep our sights on a better future.

Optimism is a positive, empowered frame of mind while contemplating times to come (“Let’s do this!”)

Pessimism is a negative, helpless outlook (“It’ll never work. Don’t even try.”) Optimism and youth often go hand-in-hand, because that’s when time, energy and ambition are on our side. Over time, disappointments and setbacks come, relationships and health fail, loved ones die. Suddenly, our options seem limited. Our hopes fade.

But hope and optimism can be renewed. Springtime is the ideal season to shake off stagnant wintry thinking and regain a fresh perspective.

Restoration, refreshment and rejuvenation can be cultivated if you plant the seeds of optimism.

22

Your Journey - Your Life

MOVE FORWARD Dr. Ronald J. Morrison is in the practice of pushing back against despair. As senior pastor of Hope Alliance Bible Church in Maple Heights, he serves an inner-city community where poverty, poor education, unemployment, homelessness and violence prevail.

From the pulpit and also as executive director of community development corporation Alliance for Family Hope, Inc. (AFH), he instills hope in people. The goal is to transform the communities in Southeast Cleveland, reversing the pattern of deterioration and instability. With educate, encourage and enrich as its guiding principles, the AFH provides educational, enrichment, mentoring and vocational programs for disadvantaged and at-risk youth “to become productive citizens, well educated, deeply encouraged, and enriched beyond their wildest imaginations.”

Morrison says that optimistic people like himself keep an eye on the future, which helps them get through the difficulties of the present. Their optimism is founded on a belief that the best days are yet to come.

“People around us are hurting, and need to be encouraged,” he says. “I want to be the kind of person that can be a healthy and encouraging influence to everyone I meet.”

Instead of slowing down in his sixth decade, Morrison works with a sense of urgency.

“Changing seasons remind us of the passing of time. We cannot procrastinate and still have the opportunities to do meaningful and important things,” he says. “Each spring should remind us of a different season of life, and a window of time to start something new that will be meaningful and satisfying. It’s like waking up each day with another chance to make a difference. When the earth brings forth the buds and sprouts that will soon be full of life,

from the earth that was in previous weeks cold and hard, we should be invigorated to spring into action and get involved with whatever activities are meaningful and available.”

While the minister’s outlook is spiritual, it also reflects the principles of fulfillment from a psychological point of view.

A FULFILLING LIFE CAN NURTURE OPTIMISM It’s not happiness we should be seeking, but “a life of well being,” according Martin Seligman, founder of positive psychology. He says positive emotion is only one part of the fulfillment puzzle, along with engagement with what you do, a sense of accomplishment and good relationships.

Inevitably, the pressures of life can get discouraging. How can we lift ourselves out of the dumps and get back to our happy place?

Morrison advises, “Get to the root of a problem to find the right solution. One of my favorite mood-changing lessons comes from King David in the Psalms. He asks himself, ‘Why is my soul cast down and why is my soul/spirit anxious and disturbed?’

He acknowledges being troubled and down, but he’s not going to stay in his spiritual depression.”

Morrison says that if we focus too long inwardly, we get depressed and discouraged by our problems, challenges and limitations. Change your focus. “If I focus on His ability, rather than my lack of abilities, I regain my inner peace and joy.”

APPRECIATE THE POSITIVE Ellin Andrews, 69, is that picture of positivity. She teaches and tutors English at Lorain County Community College and co-owns and operates an alpaca farm in Vermillion called Abundant Blessings. She also rescues dogs and cats that are disabled, old and unwanted.

Single with no children, Andrews has endured the deaths of her beloved mother and sister, and has survived breast cancer and heart disease. She could feel despondent, but she chooses not to.

“Every day is a blessing,” she says. “Appreciate what you have.

Don’t focus on what you don’t have.

Whatever you have or don’t have, make do with it. Each day is a new

WHAT’S SO BAD ABOUT PESSIMISM, ANYWAY?

“I

am prepared for the worst but hope for the best.”

This wisdom coined by British Prime Minister and novelist Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881) isn’t just practical advice while facing an oncoming tornado; it’s a recommended approach for your mental health, according to modern psychologists.

Runaway optimism can set you up for a hard fall once the storms of life come, according to Psychology Today.

Positive thinking advocates believe that pessimism creates gloomy, dreary, sad-sack losers. But that’s painting with too broad a brush stroke. Successful people often use pessimism strategically to motivate and prepare themselves for the future, recent research indicates.

It’s simply false that optimism is “good” and pessimism is “bad.”

Rather, both are functional; both have value. Optimism and pessimism both help us manage our expectations and actions while we move forward into a hopeful future.

‘Rational optimism’ is now advised, where an optimistic outlook is tempered by an acknowledgment that unwanted outcomes are within the realm of possibility. Pessimism can assist us in managing our feelings. By spinning down expectations (“I probably won’t get this award/ promotion/hot date”), it insulates us from crushing disappointment when things don’t go our way.

The key is to continue to move forward. Don’t allow negative thoughts or fear about the future stop you in your tracks. Push back against perceived helplessness, using a pinch of pessimism as a motivational tool. You can preempt possible negative outcomes with creative mitigation plans that cushion your future with “insurance” for the best possible outcome.

Well aware that pessimism can be paralyzing when the storms of life come, Disraeli also says, “Action may not always bring happiness; but there is no happiness without action.” Keep pessimism in its place as you spring forward into an optimistic future.

canvas for you to create something beautiful. Don’t wait for things to happen. Stay active, get around young people, keep learning and do something new. It can be scary.

You can face heartbreak. But it’s exhilarating, and you come away with lessons learned.”

Formerly a businesswoman in McDonald’s management and an owner of Sylvan Writing Center franchises, Andrews lives out the underlying principle in the selfhelp novel “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,” by author Stephen Covey. Take responsibility. You can

choose to be miserable or choose to be happy.

Ever the optimist, Andrews doesn’t fear the future. “I’m slowing down, but I can still unload a truck full of hay. When I get tired, I sit and rest. Then I go on.”

Estelle Rodis-Brown is a freelance writer and photographer from Northeast Ohio. She was a natural optimist in her young years and has evolved into a rational optimist with the passage of time.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

23

TRAVEL

Bring

W

EVERYONE Along

Include all Generations for a Not-to-Be-Forgotten Trip

ithout a doubt, multigenerational travel is one of the hottest trends going.

Multigenerational vacations bring the entire family together to enjoy ex-

citing adventures and to make memories that last a lifetime.

Thirty-six percent of vacation bookings are multigenerational, according to travel association figures. The 55

and older generation worked hard, invested well and many of them are already enjoying retirement.

Yet, 54 percent of grandparents say they wish they had more time to spend with their grandchildren. And now, they have found the way; grandparents are taking the lead and booking trips for their whole family.

Tricia Scott, agent at Visit Mickey Vacations, reports an increase in multigenerational travel in the past few years. Travel to Disney offers plenty of trips for all ages that have nothing to do with parks or with Mickey Mouse.

Scott answers a few questions about multigenerational trips.

WHAT ARE THE BEST TRIPS? It’s a destination that can fit everyone’s pace. Nobody wants to feel left behind or the one holding everyone else back. Babies and grandparents may want a slower pace. Teens tend to be in a hurry.

So, what are the best options?

TRY A CRUISE Disney Cruise Line ships have activities and areas specifically designed for the entire family. They also have several adults-only areas, including spas and nightclubs.

Kids, too, have their areas which are conveniently divided by age groups.

Disney Cruise Line ships stop at a private island, Castaway Cay, on trips to the Bahamas or to the Caribbean.

Other trips include cruises to ports in Alaska, Europe, Mexico, California and the Canadian coasts.

Royal Caribbean, which is not affiliated with Disney, is another cruise line that does a great job with families. If you like to gamble, that might be a choice because Disney ships do not have onboard casinos.

24

Your Journey - Your Life

WANT TO STAY CLOSER TO HOME? The company has more than nine awe-inspiring trips throughout North America. Check out a Broadway show or gaze at the majesty of a glacier in Alberta, Canada.

See the true Wyoming Wild West or wind your way through the untamed wilderness of Alaska. All of these adventures have terrific things to do

and places to see; each is professionally crafted to give lifetime memories.

Traveling with a large multi-age group can be challenging.

Accommodating a variety of interests, ages and physical abilities can be stressful. Consider reaching out to a travel professional to find the right fit for your family. Let them do all the work so you can have all the fun.

ALOHA Aulani is Disney’s Resort and Spa in Hawaii, about a 35-minute drive from Honolulu airport. This lovely resort, which has activities for all ages, allows families to do as much, or as little, as they choose.

At Aunty’s Beach House, kids ages 3-12 can learn to Hula, snorkel in a pool and enjoy fireside storytelling. Many activities are included in the initial cost, but an excursion specialist can suggest extra adventures, depending on family interest.

With both Disney cruises and the Aulani resort, families can spend all their time together or split into small groups and then get together for meals and special events.

TRAVEL THE WORLD With Adventures by Disney, families are adventurers, not tourists. Its travel packages provide immersive activities such as making pasta in Italy, taking painting lessons at Monet’s home in France and making pretzels in Germany.

It offers more than 30 adventures in 23 countries. From the beauty of the Austrian Alps to wine tasting in the warmth of Tuscany, to ancient ruins in Athens, this is family-friendly world travel adventure.

Tricia Scott is a wife, mother and owner of Visit Mickey Vacations, which specializes in family travel. She has a department that specializes in families with special needs. For more information, go to visitmickeyvacations.com

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

25

Food for

Change Green City Growers and the Woman Who Helps Bring Hope to Struggling Neighborhoods

By Marie Elium Photography by Michael Blair

26

Your Journey - Your Life

K

now this about India Pierce Lee — she’s a hugger.

Her generous embrace comes with a quick warning. Then, suddenly, you’re in a hug – and in a part of her world.

For Lee, 60, her world is one with big ideas in a relatively confined area — several struggling inner-city Cleveland neighborhoods. She works with a team of corporate heavyweights, public sector groups, community organizations, foodies, bankers and almost anyone else who can inject a positive influence in places that are distressed and careworn.

She presents an interesting dichotomy — a dynamo who juggles dozens of projects and ideas at a time while being entirely present when talking one-on-one. It’s a quality that comes in handy with her work at The Cleveland Foundation and its many interests aimed at bolstering neighborhoods with high unemployment, dilapidated housing and — until recently — waning hope.

Opposite: India Piece Lee and edible flowers in the greenhouse.

This page: Hydroponic lettuce ready for harvest.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

27

PRACTICAL PROJECTS FOR MAXIMUM IMPACT Like many large cities, Cleveland’s most impoverished neighborhoods are located around some of its most prominent institutions. The Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University have well-deserved reputations as first-rate institutions.

Yet, until just over a decade ago, their influence was underutilized in the areas closest to them.

A challenge for Lee and others she has worked with was to figure out the

businesses. The question for Lee and others was, “How can we create businesses in the neighborhoods using the strength of the anchor institutions’ buying power?” she says.

A CAUSE CLOSE TO THE HEART

Lee is familiar with the low-income areas the foundation has set its sights on. She was raised in the Glenville neighborhood. Her younger brother was killed when he and her father were caught in crossfire while driving down E. 93rd Street. She graduated from Dyke College in Cleveland with a management degree, then attended Case Western Reserve University, where she earned a master’s in science and applied social administration.

Lee decided to venture away from the city she loved and became an air traffic controller — a job that in hindsight seems fitting for someone who today works on numerous projects with divergent interests.

She married her husband, Peter Lee, 20 years ago after meeting on a India talks to greenhouse employee Gangi Tirwa.

Glenville tennis court.

She has two stepchildren and five grandchildren. She’s close to best way to buoy these neighborher sister, brother, nephews, nieces hoods and their residents. Central to and extended family, most of whom this is The Cleveland Foundation, a live in Glenville or within a short drive. nonprofit group that links donors with Lee has successfully recruited friends worthy projects throughout the city. and others to move to the close-knit The foundation uses its substantial neighborhood. endowment and connections to Her husband was a more than 30support a myriad of programs. Lee year city employee and retired as fire is the foundation’s Program Director chief at Hopkins and Burke Lakefront for Neighborhoods, Housing, and airports. He stays busy with volunteer Community Development. work.

“We used maps to show vacant The couple are members of Bethany properties and poor building condiBaptist Church, whose pastor is the tions in the neighborhoods, and the Rev. Dr. Stephen Rowan. The church is Clinic, Case and UH were all within a 1.5 an important part of their lives. mile radius,” Lee says. “These neigh“In a neighborhood like Glenville borhoods basically were declining. you always hear about the bad stuff, We wanted to see how these wealthy never the good stuff. Because of my institutions can leverage their buying faith, I guess I’m willing to take those power and resources to stabilize their hits when I have to and also admitting neighborhoods around them.” when I’m wrong and being humble.”

One thing is clear — pouring money into neighborhoods without long-term SMART SOLUTIONS FOR TOUGH goals that address the complexities PROBLEMS of an area doesn’t work. Vibrant Eleven years ago, the foundation communities are communities with

28

Your Journey - Your Life

Here are a Few Places to Find Green City Growers Lettuce RETAIL Marc’s West Side Market- Cleveland Kroger Meijer’s WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTORS Sysco Sirna & Sons Produce Premier Produce One Hillcrest Food Service Northern Haserot

INSTITUTIONS Case Western Reserve University Cleveland Clinic University Hospitals RESTAURANTS Fire Food and Drink Katz Club Diner Lola Lolita Sterle’s Country House Greenhouse Tavern L’Albatros Pura Vida Graffiti Cork & Cleaver Flour Urban Farmer Lago Cleveland Museum of Art

started the Greater University Circle Initiative aimed at launching employee-owned businesses in the Greater University Circle area. After Lee joined The Cleveland Foundation, her attention quickly focused on housing, employment and other components key to neighborhood stabilization.

Lee met with people from around the country to learn about successful programs and returned to the foundation with plenty of information about what did and did not work elsewhere.

“We always worry about numbers, but if you look at programs across the country, millions and millions are spent, but do they really help people?” she asks.

“Here, you have people who show up and they (may) miss work and maybe they have been sleeping in their car or have domestic abuse. The

people who have the hardest time have a lot of stuff going on.”

She continues, “I’ve been in community development for almost 28 years, and working in an urban community all you hear is “No.” “ She quickly discovered that race, class and cultural issues complicate even the most well-meaning programs.

The multi-million dollar effort was complicated. The group put together grant and loan money and mind power from the Cleveland Foundation, the City of Cleveland, the anchor institutions, private banks, community leaders and others to launch the initiative.

The first was Evergreen Cooperative Laundry on Elk Avenue. The $5.8 million employee-owned laundry opened in 2009. It contracts with hospitals and others and employs people from the neighborhood.

Next was Evergreen Energy Solutions, a solar panel, construction and home-weatherization company.

Opened also in 2009, it recently won a contract from Cleveland Heights to install and retrofit LED energyefficient lighting for the city.

The latest Evergreen Initiative is Green City Growers Cooperative, the largest hydroponic (water grown) greenhouse in the state and the largest urban food production greenhouse in the country. Like the others, GCG is employee-owned and uses the greenest techniques available. The greenhouse opened in 2013.

Although she and a team helped nurture GCG from an idea to a greenhouse the size of three football fields – with plenty of sidetracks along the way – Lee still seems amazed by and certainly proud of the green rows surrounding her.

The lettuces are perfect. Grown pesticide-free and non-GMO (genetically modified organisms), their delicate roots spend their short lives in nutrient-rich water in a tightly controlled environment. No brown spots or holes mar their leaves. It makes them highly in demand among regional distributors, who in turn sell them to grocery stores, restaurants and specialty markets.

One small area of the greenhouse breaks from the hues of purple and green lettuces and sprouts. Here, bachelor’s buttons and other edible blooms grow in a riot of blues, yellows and oranges. They’ll be mixed with microgreens or show up as a dinner plate garnish at restaurants throughout the region. Workers are experimenting with 36 varieties of basil. GCG recently contracted with one of the

world’s largest food processors to roll out a new line of basil pesto.

The $17 million New Market Tax Credit investment in the greenhouse is starting to pay off. GCG employs 40 people, most from the surrounding neighborhoods. It ships three million heads of greens annually. Between 1 percent and 2 percent of the produce is donated to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

Workers here and at the other Evergreen Cooperatives get employment training and support to buy homes. The goal is to help them become ambassadors in the community.

“People always ask me what’s next, and I always say wherever God leads me,” Lee says. “I know I can make a difference, and I have the resources available to me. We’ve had people come from around the world and nationally to see what’s happening here. The Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve, and the City are anchors that are at the table every day trying to help us figure this out. The Cleveland Foundation has been a great place to innovate.”

FROM A BROWN FIELD TO ROWS OF GREEN A steady hum of motors and fans seems to fade away as a visitor walks through the 3.5 acres of greenhouse space in Cleveland’s Central Neighborhood just off E. 55th St. Workers carefully transplant plugs of lettuces with translucent root webs dangling from the ends.

Foam trays of lettuces float in long, shallow pools of room-temperature water. The rows stretch from one end of the greenhouse to the other in varying stages of growth. It takes 45 days to grow a head of lettuce from seed to shipping size.

Marie Elium is hoping someone creates an all-crouton salad.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

29

LEGAL

A

Scammed

MORE THREATS Thieves now also have sophisticated equipment that can copy credit card informaPROTECT YOURSELF tion from an online site or in AND LOVED ONES person when paying for gas FROM COMMON or using an ATM machine.

CONS They clone your credit card and go on a spending spree.

They can even copy Medicare or other health insurance cards and buy costly medical procedures for themselves.

By Laurie G. Steiner Sometimes, they sell the information to other crooks.

Watch your credit transacNEW SCAMS, SAME TARGETS Of course, there are the schemers tions daily to make sure no one has It seems that every day a new type of preying on grandparents, pretendyour Social Security or credit card scam pops up. Originally, seniors would ing to be a grandchild stranded numbers. Be careful who you give your fall prey to official looking letters in the in India who needs money to get private information to, and ask why the daily mail. These letters would promise home. The money is wired to a person needs that data. If someone prize winnings, free trips or money, all faraway destination. The grandchild calls with a request, always ask for his of which are very tempting to a senior was never there to begin with. or her name and contact information; living on a fixed income. Many required Seniors increasingly are tech that often ends the conversation. “just a small deposit” to be returned in savvy and are online with family Never buy anything on the spur of order to secure the winnings, which of and friends. The same scams as the moment by mail, phone, TV or course never materialized. noted above can work electronionline. Ask for more information and Then telephone calls became popular. cally as well. Be sure you and older more time. Only purchase items from Maybe your mother was sitting at home family members have anti spy a secure payment device that you watching TV when the phone rang and ware, antivirus and antiphishing trust, whether in person or online. a friendly voice was on the other end software security on computasking how her day was going. The ers to help reduce scam emails.

PROTECT YOURSELF AND person becomes a friend and then asks Additionally, a secure firewall on LOVED ONES for a loan or offers services to Mom for a your computer and mobile devices Take advantage of services that can fee. The money disappears, and Mom is is a must to prevent unwelcome help you protect yourself and family lonely once again. intrusions. members. You can annually request a ccording to the National Center on Elder Abuse, more than 2 million senior citizens are affected by financial abuse. It is the number one crime committed against people age 65 and older.

These scams fall generally into the category of financial elder abuse. Seniors lose nearly $3 billion to fraud annually, according to the Senate Special Committee on Aging.

free credit report for yourself to make sure no one has used your name, credit or Social Security number. Go online to annualcreditreport.com to obtain your report.

Opt out of telephone calls by calling 888-382-1222 or go online at donotcall.gov. Opt out of free credit card mailings that thieves steal by calling 888-567-8688 or go online at optoutprescreen.com.

Finally, if you are a victim, report it. The AARP has found that as many as 3/4 of people over 55 don’t report fraud. Don’t be embarrassed–it can happen to anyone. Call the Senate’s Special Committee on Aging toll free hot line at 1-855-303-9470 for information and to report scams.

Laurie G. Steiner is a member of the law firm of Solomon, Steiner & Peck, Ltd. She is a Certified Elder Law Attorney.

30

Your Journey - Your Life

PETS

Pet Pain Identify, Treat Source To Help Heal Your Dog or Cat

By Dr. Anna M. van Heeckeren

SIDEBAR SOURCE: INTERNATIONAL VETERINARY ACADEMY OF PAIN MANAGEMENT

Y

our veterinarian afford to pay for speSIGNS OF PAIN IN DOGS can use different cific tests and treat• Decreased social kinds of tests to ments before you start interaction identify why your pet approving them.

• Anxious expression is experiencing pain.

If your pet is ex• Submissive behavior Some of these tests can periencing pain that • Refusal to move be performed by your cannot be identified or • Whimpering primary veterinary care managed effectively at • Howling provider, and others a price you can afford, • Growling require a specialist with have a discussion with • Guarding behavior novel diagnostic tests. your veterinarian about • Aggression; biting Pain can be a whether you should • Decreased appetite challenge to treat. consider euthanasia for • Self-mutilation Understanding the your pet. It may be the (chewing) reason why your pet is in most humane choice • Changes in posture pain can help determine you have. If you have the best treatment opa hard time thinking SIGNS OF PAIN IN CATS tions. The most comabout euthanasia as • Reduced activity monly known treatment an option for whatever • Loss of appetite is pain medication. Pain reason, there are peo• Quiet/loss of curiosity medications for people ple who can help you • Changes in urinary/ may be harmful for your cope with this decision. defecation habits pet, so always talk with Pet treatments • Hiding your veterinarian about continue to evolve. I pain medications that recently attended a • Hissing or spitting may be safe to use in continuing education • Lack of agility/ your pet. event for veterinarians jumping Therapies to treat pet that talked about rec• Excessive licking/ pain include some you ognizing pain in dogs grooming may have heard are used and cats, and treat• Stiff posture/gait for people. These include ment options for pets • Guarding behavior acupuncture and laser experiencing pain.

• Stops grooming/ therapy. The treatments At the International matted fur Dr. Jennifer F. Johnson, a Veterinary Academy of • Tail flicking veterinary pain managePain Management they • Weight loss ment specialist from developed a great way Pennsylvania, explained for you to help your were very convincing to me as efveterinarian determine if your dog fective options for treating specific or cat is in pain. You can find more causes of pain. Your primary care information about pain and your pet veterinarian may or may not have on their web site at ivapm.org. these specialized treatment options Dr. Anna M. van Heeckeren, available, so they may refer you to a MS, DVM, is founder, specialist. president and CEO of Some tests and treatments are One Health Organization more expensive than you may expect, in Gates Mills. For more so understand how much it will cost information contact her at and determine whether you can info@onehealth.org.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

31

HOME & STYLE

Fast Fixes under $500 Do-It-Yourself Projects Perk Up Outdoor Living Spaces

By Glen Miller

K

eeping the outside of your home in good shape adds curb appeal and value while saving money on more expensive exterior fixes later.

Dozens of small, inexpensive do-ityourself projects can revitalize outdoor areas.

Try these: Refresh house paint. A gallon of exterior paint costs $25-$34, depending on quality. For a cheaper option, tackle this project yourself to touch up or to change the color on your trim, shutters or the front of your home.

“It’s one of the best improvements you can make in your home’s curb

32

Your Journey - Your Life

appeal,” says Duane Prokop, a Mentor contractor.

Change or paint your front door. If your front door is looking a little sad, replace it or repaint it. Choose a color that works with your home’s exterior.

Plant something. Noelle Akin, Petitti Garden Center’s director of communication and education, says creating flower boxes or beds are less time-consuming alternatives to painting.

Dirt, mulch, plants and a shovel are all you need for flowers beds.

If you have a porch, patio, deck or courtyard, constructing or installing flower boxes will add a touch of color.

Brighten curb appeal with container gardens, especially near the front door, Akin says.

“Container gardens are an easy DIY project,” she adds. “You can start with a recycled container, use inexpensive plastic containers or you could purchase

something larger and more exotic, but (you) don’t have to.”

Akin suggests choosing flowers that “attract the eye, especially bright red and yellow flowers that pull the eye toward the entry way.” Pastel flowers can be used “to soften the approach” to the doorway.

Make your lawn greener and healthier You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on your lawn to make it attractive and healthy.

Sometimes, all it takes is cutting grass the proper length and pulling weeds to help your lawn look good, Prokop says. Start with fertilizer and whatever can be used to prevent the growth and spread of pesky crabgrass. Ask for advice at your local hardware or garden center, or do online research.

Get a new mailbox If your old, weathered mailbox is showing rust, consider a new one. Look for a mailbox that accents your home’s front yard or curb area.

Plant a few perennial flowers at the base of the mailbox to add color, Akin suggests. “You need perennials that are salt and drought tolerant because

this is the furthest point from the house.”

She recommends planting deerresistant coreopsis, sea thrift or bluebells.

Install new address numbers Eyecatching house numbers can be planted, placed, or otherwise displayed in your front yard to showcase your personal taste and design, Akin says.

Hide your garbage cans Most people place their cans in locations visible from the street. If you’re handy, build and paint a decorative fence around the area where you store garbage and yard waste containers. Plant flowers around the fence. The project costs $250-$300, if you have the proper tools, Prokop says.

Welcome warm weather with paint, plants and a few easy and inexpensive outdoor projects. Then pull up a chair and enjoy your spruced up living space.

Glen Miller is a freelance writer with 40 years of journalism experience.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

33

FITNESS

A

s we age, our mental abilities can begin to decline. Promising research shows that you can reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias through a combination of healthy habits, including eating right, exercising, staying mentally and socially active and keeping stress in check.

LIFESTYLE CHOICES ARE THE KEY Researchers are racing towards a cure for Alzheimer’s. But as prevalence rates climb, their focus has broadened from treatment to prevention strategies.

Fears about Alzheimer’s may discourage you from taking action. By identifying and controlling your personal risk factors, you can maximize your chances of lifelong brain health and take effective steps to preserve your cognitive abilities.

Alzheimer’s is a complex disease with multiple risk factors. Some, like age and genetics, are outside your control.

However, many others are within your sphere of influence. These factors can be quite powerful when it comes to your brain health.

The six pillars of a brain-healthy, Alzheimer’s prevention lifestyle are: regular exercise, healthy diet, mental stimulation, quality sleep, stress management and an active social life.

The more you strengthen each of these pillars, the healthier and hardier your brain will be. When you lead a brain-healthy lifestyle, your brain will stay working stronger, longer.

34

Your Journey - Your Life

SMART CHOICES FOR A

HEALTHY BRAIN

Exercise Can Keep You Fit From Head to Toe

By Jeff Tomaszewski

GET REGULAR EXERCISE – AND STICK TO IT To maximize the brain-protecting benefits of your workout, aim for at least 20 minutes of moderate intensity exercise daily. The ideal plan involves a combination of

cardio exercise and strength training, but anything that raises your heart rate is a good place to start.

Beginners can start with walking and swimming. Routine activities such as cleaning and gardening can count as exercise as long as they get you up and moving.

Build muscle to pump up your brain. Moderate levels of weight and resistance training not only increase muscle mass, they also help maintain brain health.

Combining aerobics and strength training is better than either activity alone.

If you’ve been inactive for a while, starting an exercise program can be intimidating. Look for small ways to add more movement into your day. Park at the far end of the parking lot, take the stairs, carry your own groceries, or walk around the block or pace while talking on your cell phone.

Build in frequent rewards, and within no time, the feel-good endorphins from regular exercise will help you forget the remote and have you heading out the door.

Jeff Tomaszewski is owner of MaxStrength Fitness in Westlake, is a certified athletic trainer and strength and conditioning specialist.

Go to maxstrengthfitness. com or call 440-835-9090.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION



Independent Living & Retirement Communities S H OWC A S E



THE INDEPENDENT LIVING DECISION Are you or your parents considering moving to an independent or senior living community?

The reasons for making a change at this time in life are as varied as the people making the decisions. Northeast Ohio has plenty of options that can make finding the right fit easy. Check out the communities inside. Maybe this is the year for a move.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

35

 SHOWCASE : Independent Living & Retirement Communities

 CHOICES FOR A NEW LIFESTYLE Today’s seniors and almostseniors are a demanding group. They want housing that meets their needs, and they want interesting activities, high-quality health care and access to technology.

How else will they be able to use their tablets and laptops without good Internet access?

From active 55 and older

CONNECT WITH US! /NEOhio​Boomer

​ /​NEOhio​Boomer

people to aged loved ones with serious health challenges, Northeast Ohio offers a plethora of living options. Spacious apartments. Private rooms.

Restaurant-style dining areas and resort-style public lounges. The new and improved housing options in the region are designed to meet the needs of older adults at all stages of life.

Within this special section are several facilities that bring together an impressive array of services with housing choices as varied as the people who seek them.

All levels of convenience and care are available within the region. It’s easy to “age in place” in Northeast Ohio.

5 Out of 5 Stars Highest Quality Rating from Medicare

36

Your Journey - Your Life



 SHOWCASE : Independent Living & Retirement Communities

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Laurel Lake announces Town Center Expansion Phase II Laurel Lake Retirement Community in Hudson has unveiled plans for Phase II of its Town Center Expansion.

The 150-acre community is working with concept architect Shekhar Bhushan, AIA of SB Architecture in Centennial, Colorado and Perspectus Architecture of Cleveland on a plan to transform Laurel Lake’s original Commons into a spacious new, amenity-rich Town Center. Hudson-based Augere Construction is general contractor.

Phase I, the addition of a new Bistro, Pub and Colony Shop, was completed last year. Phase II construction begins in March and includes the following: THERAPY CENTER – Laurel Lake’s therapy suite will be replaced by a new state-of-the-art Therapy Center providing physical, occupational, and speech therapies to residents and non-residents alike. It will feature a larger therapy gym with cutting-edge equipment; a kitchen, bath and laundry to help patients prepare for return to home; private exam and treatment rooms.

MAIN STREET TRANSFORMATION – The Commons—that main thoroughfare which connects Laurel Lake’s core amenities to its residential neighborhoods—will be transformed into a new “Main Street” complete with updated lighting, furniture, flooring and wall treatments, new archways and coffered ceilings.

DENTAL OFFICE – A new dental office will give residents easy access to preventative care exams, cleanings and basic treatments.

ARTS & CRAFTS STUDIO – The former Colony Shop will become a new artist’s studio with solar tube lighting, ample work surfaces, cabinetry and storage lockers. Laurel Lake’s Art Gallery will be renovated with new LED lighting and an art hanging system.

OFFICE SPACE – New offices for Hospitality (Catering), Security, Transportation and Mission will improve resident access to these services.

STAFF AMENITIES – The employee dining room, staff locker rooms and restrooms will be renovated for a more contemporary, inviting environment.

Plans for Phase III

– the replacement of Laurel Lake’s existing facilities with a new Wellness Spa featuring state-of-theart fitness and aquatic center,

salon and health clinic – will be unveiled later this year.

For information about Laurel Lake, visit www.laurellake.org.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

37

 SHOWCASE : Independent Living & Retirement Communities

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Grande Oaks Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center For people who use a ventilator to breathe, top-notch clinical and respiratory care is essential. It is especially critical for people trying to wean off the ventilator to breathe again on their own.

At Grande Oaks Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Oakwood Village, patients can breathe easily regardless of what stage of weaning they are in because of the experienced respiratory therapists who are on site 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.

“We identify each patient’s goals, and we come up with a personalized weaning program,” says Carole Stull, rehabilitation unit manager and a respiratory therapist at Grande Oaks. “Our goal is to return people to their homes or to assisted living, breathing without a bulky machine.”

Stull works with a team of experienced staff who offer a comprehensive approach to patient care.

“We address all aspects of a patient’s needs,” says Chuck Hillier, executive director of Grande Oaks.

The center provides services such

38

Your Journey - Your Life

as wound care; IV therapy; physical, occupational and speech therapy; and, assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing.

Typically, patients who admit to the ventilator rehabilitation unit come directly from the hospital or a long-term acute care (LTAC) hospital. Each patient’s care plan is created differently, based on the team’s assessments.

“Every patient is different,” Stull says. “Sometimes the process takes weeks, other times, months.”

Stull says the key to success on Grande Oaks’ ventilator weaning

unit is simple. “We offer plenty of one-on-one time with each patient,” she says. “That way, we can watch them closely as they build independence.

And we see them gaining strength in therapy.”

While patients work on breathing with their respiratory therapist, they also get help learning to feed and dress themselves safely for when they return home. A licensed speechlanguage pathologist is also onsite to help with swallowing disorders or other issues that may result from being on breathing machines.

The short-term ventilator unit at Grande Oaks, which has operated for more than 10 years, accommodates about 15 people on ventilators and another seven who have tracheostomy tubes.

To learn more about the respiratory therapy program at Grande Oaks or to schedule an evaluation, call 440-439-7976 or visit the website at EmbassyHealthcare.net.

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

39

 SHOWCASE : Independent Living & Retirement Communities

 SHOWCASE : Independent Living & Retirement Communities

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Atrium at Anna Maria The Atrium features comfortable accommodations and compassionate care that is second to none. The Atrium at Anna Maria is a new, state-of-the-art mature living apartment community uniquely designed for the active-minded senior who may have varying levels of living preferences.

“Atrium Living” is about continuing to experience the vitality and enjoyment of life.

“Atrium Living” is about leveraging more than 20,000 sq. ft. of indoor landscaping/ gardens, an aquatic center, walking path, fitness center, outdoor courtyards and an abundance of natural light. Other features include a theater, spa, grand dining hall, library and casual bistro & lounge.

40

Your Journey - Your Life

Choice is important at The Atrium the choice of our residents/guests to participate in innovative recreational programming such as lifelong learning, intergenerational programs, outings and a variety of clubs and other activities.

Living at The Atrium at Anna Maria offers an unparalleled opportunity for each person to continue to live life to the fullest, surrounded by new neighbors and friends who share similar interests.

You’re invited to have lunch and see for yourself why our residents call The Atrium home. Call Diane Barben, Director of Marketing, at 330-562-7777 for an appointment.

MAY/JUNE*

SEPT/OCT*

Home Health Care Solutions

Assisted Living/ Skilled Nursing/Rehab

JULY/AUG*

NOV/DEC*

Professional Services

Palliative Care/Hospice

 SHOWCASE : Independent Living & Retirement Communities

U P CO M IN G S H OWCAS E S

*Indicates issue month of Aging Answers supplement in Northeast Ohio Parent

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

41

42

Your Journey - Your Life

SPRING EVENTS PHOTO COURTESY OF STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS

Submit an event listing to Calendar@NortheastOhioBoomer.com

May 8 PICK YOUR DAY MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS

Adult Horseback Riding.

Perfect for beginners or experienced riders. 6:15 p.m.

Monday, 7 p.m. Wednesday, and 10 a.m. Friday. Nickajack Farms Riding Academy, 2955 Manchester Ave. NW, North Lawrence, 330-323-9715, nickajackfarms.com/ride. $35 RightFit Senior Wellness Program. Designed to help adults ages 65 and older improve their health at a comfortable pace. 1-2 p.m. at Akron General Health & Wellness Center North, 4300 Allen Road, Stow, and 2-3 p.m. at Akron General Health & Wellness Center West, 4125 Medina Road, Akron, 330665-8272, akrongeneral.org/ rightfit. FREE Functional Training. A functional training class for ages 50 and older will help you gain strength and mobility to enhance your activities of daily living. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

The Ehrnfelt Recreation & Senior Center, 18100 Royalton Road, Strongsville, 440-5803260, strongsville.org. $3-6

Mother’s Day Enjoy a stroll around the lovely Stan Hywet gardens and manor house on Mother’s Day. Free admission for all moms, self-guided tours only.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org •

Mother’s Day at the Akron Zoo

Half off admission for mothers and grandmothers.

Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron, 330-375-2550, akronzoo.org •

Mother’s Day Tea & Program

Create a memory while sharing elegant tea fare with mom, grandma, daughters and/or best friends.

2-4 p.m. Hower House Victorian Mansion, The University of Akron, 60 Fir Hill, Akron, 330-972-6909, howerhouse.org. $22-32 •

Mother’s Day Brunch

Treat mom or grandma to an unforgettable feast in the Garden, where she’ll be surrounded by thousands of spring blooms as stunning as she is.

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org. $18-$50

May 7 Mother’s Day Tea: Language of Flowers During tea, you will be treated to a program all about the language of flowers. Lake County History Center, 415 Riverside Dr., Painesville, 440-639-2945, lakehistory.org

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardents

WEDNESDAYS

Health Matters. Join neighborhood experts from nine UH locations for insights on health matters from 6-7:30 p.m. the second Wednesday of every month. 216-767-8435, uhhospitals.org/healthmatters.

FREE

Solo at Sarah’s Vineyard.

Cozy up in their 1840’s post and beam tasting room and listen to some local favorites. Sarah’s Vineyard, 1204 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9298057, sarahsvineyardwinery. com. FREE Senior Matinee Series. All programs include a cookie and punch reception following the performance. 1 p.m. The Fine Arts Association, 38660 Mentor Ave., Willoughby, 440-951-7500 ext. 103, fineartsassociation.org. $15 Ballet for Balance. Learn the art and language of ballet to find balance and increase flexibility. 2-2:45 p.m. Mentor Senior Center, 8484 Munson Road, Mentor, 440-974-5725, cityofmentor.com. $30

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

43

SPRING EVENTS

SATURDAYS

Late Night at the Garden.

The Garden has extended hours on Wednesdays until 9 p.m. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org. $16

Carnegie West Knitting Club. Novice and experienced knitters welcome. 1-3 p.m. Carnegie West Branch Library, 1900 Fulton Road, Cleveland, 216-623-6927, cpl.org. FREE

Social Networking for Beginners. On the fourth Wednesday of each month learn about different social networks like Facebook and Twitter. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

North Canton Public Library, 185 N. Main St., 330-4994712, ncantonlibrary.com.

FREE

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS

Bike Aboard. Bike the Towpath Trail in one direction and hop on the train in the other. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, cvsr.com. $3

Martin and Erik Demaine’s piece Red Velvet from the KSU Focus Fiber 2016

ONGOING

show. Photo by the artist.

THURSDAYS

Senior Happenings.

Attend this weekly lecture series sponsored by the City of University Heights. Open to residents of all communities. 2-3 p.m. University Heights Branch Library, 13866 Cedar Road, 216-9323600, heightslibrary.org.

FREE Camp Wired. Adults 55 and older learn or brush up on computer basics along with a variety of skills and software. 9:30-11:30 a.m. Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway St., Medina, 330725-0588, mcdl.info. FREE Yoga Class. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Amherst Public Library, 221 Spring St., Amherst, 440988-4230, amherst.lib.oh.us.

FREE

Healing Journey Support Group. 2-4 p.m. or 6-8 p.m.

Hospice of Visiting Nurse Service, 3558 Ridgewood Road, Copley, 330-6684662. FREE Watercolor: Nature Scenes. Local artist and instructor leads this stepby-step four-class session in April. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

French Creek Reservation, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, metroparks.cc. $40

44

Your Journey - Your Life

Through 7/3 Focus: Fiber 2016 at the Kent State University Museum Explore a juried exhibition of contemporary fiber art coordinated by Textile Art Alliance. Artists from around the country have provided 56 works of contemporary fiber art, including weaving, basketry, quilts, tapestry, felting and embroidery and much more. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent (corner of East Main and South Lincoln streets). 330-672-3450, kent.edu. General admission $5. Sunday admission FREE. Laughter Club. 11 a.m.-noon.

South Euclid Community Center, 1370 Victory Drive, Cleveland, 216-291-0771, communitypartnershipon aging.org. FREE Family & Caregiver Support Group. Second Thursday of every month for families and friends of people affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Maplewood, 190 W. Bath Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-208-9871, maplewood atcuyahogafalls.com. FREE Warm Up America. This group enjoys knitting and crocheting afghans, lap robes, scarves, hats and blankets for others in nursing homes, hospitals and shelters. 1-3:30 p.m. The Ehrnfelt Recreation & Senior Center, 18100 Royalton Road, Strongsville, 440-580-3260, strongsville.org. FREE

Sistas Knit. Socialize with other crafters while creating wonderful projects. All crafters welcome. 6 p.m. Maple Valley Branch Library, 1187 Copley Akron Road, Akron, 330-864-5721, akronlibrary.org. FREE Parkinson Group Exercise Program. 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Summa Rehab Hospital, 29 North Adams St., Akron, 330-572-7300, summarehabhospital. com. FREE

FRIDAYS

Fit Friday. Get out with Stark Parks for this biweekly, healthy walking series for a 3-4 mile walk at different locations.

9-11 a.m. 330-409-8096, starkparks.com. FREE

Through 4/3 The Man Who Came to Dinner. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-836-2626, weathervaneplayhouse.com Through 6/12 Operation Finale: The Capture and Trial of Adolf Eichmann. Maltz Museum, 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-593-0575, maltzmuseum.org. $10-12 Through 7/3 Shaker Makers: American Furniture Icons. This exhibit will showcase the beautiful craftsmanship of the Shakers, some will be on display for the first time. Shaker Historical Society, 16740 S. Park Blvd., Shaker Heights, 216-921-1201, shakerhistoricalsociety.org. $5

DAY-BY- DAY 3/19-20 Midwest Cactus and Succulent Society Show and Sale. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-721-1600, cbgarden.org. $11 3/24 West Side Poetry Writing Workshop. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Parma Branch Library, 6996 Powers Blvd., Parma, 440885-5362, cuyahogalibrary. org. FREE

Mindfulness and Meditation. Learn how to boost your health, memory, and sense of peace with this workshop. 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave, 440-255-8811, mentorpl.org. FREE 3/26 Dog Hike. 2-3:30 p.m.

Acacia Reservation, 26899 Cedar Road, Lyndhurst, clevelandmetroparks.com.

FREE 3/30 Classical Guitar Music.

7 p.m. Independence Branch Library, 6361 Selig Dr., 216-447-0160, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE Container Gardening.

A Lake County Master Gardener will talk about container gardening. 6:30 p.m. Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave, 440-2558811, mentorpl.org. FREE Senior Connection: Balance.

Enjoy lunch while listening to Kelly Becay, physical therapist, speak about balance. noon-1 p.m. Painesville Twp. Park, 1025 Hardy Road, Painesville, 800-454-9800, lakehealth.org

3/31 Gardening Series: Plants for Dry, Shady Spots.

6-7 p.m. Exploration Gateway, 5710-5712 12th St., Canton, 330-409-8096, starkparks.com. FREE Speaking of Women’s Health: Mission Nutrition.

Enjoy health screenings, wellness vendors, dinner and expert panel discussion.

5:30–8:30 p.m. The Banquet Center at St. Noel, 35200 Chardon Road, Willoughby Hills, clevelandclinic.org/ swhwilloughby. $20.

4/1-3 Big Fun - 25th Anniversary. 1814 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-371-4FUN(4386), bigfuntoystore.com. FREE 4/2 Hip to That. Come see “Hip to That”, a four-piece jazz band, as they swing the socks off the library. 2-3 p.m.

Maple Hts. Branch Library, 5225 Library Lane, 216-4755000, cuyahogalibrary.org.

FREE A Fugitive’s Path: Escape on the Underground Railroad. 5:40-10 p.m. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, 330-666-3711, wrhs.org. $20

4/4 Cleveland Humanities Festival. This event is cosponsored by the Armenian Genocide Centennial Committee of Ohio. 6-7 p.m. Case Western Reserve, Tinkham Veale University Center, 11038 Bellflower Road, Cleveland, humanities.case.edu. FREE 4/5 Cybersecurity, Help, Information & Protection.

2-3 p.m. Parma-Snow Branch Library, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, 216-661-4240, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE 4/6 Dig In! What Grows Where? Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, 2600 South Park Blvd., Cleveland, 216321-5935, shakerlakes.org. $5-8 Discover Careers That Fit Your Personality 6:30-8:30 p.m. Strongsville Library, 18700 Westwood Drive, 440-238-5530, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE 4/7 People of the Vine – Explore the Significance of Wine in Jewish Life.

Join the Jewish Federation of Cleveland to explore

the traditions, customs, rituals and laws that have woven their way through Jewish life across the ages. 7 p.m. Mandel JCC, 26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood, jewishcleveland.org. $15 Ballroom Dance Classes.

Singles and couples welcome. 6:30 p.m.-8:45 p.m.

Quirk Cultural Center, 1201 Grant Ave., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-971-8225, cityofcf.com. $10-18 4/8 Books & Brews. A funfilled explanation from Jeff Bradbury of Lucky Owl Brewery of how craft beer is made. Samples and snacks provided. 6-8 p.m.

Bainbridge Library, 17222 Snyder Road, Chagrin Falls, 440-543-5611, geaugalibrary.net. $5 4/8-10 4th Annual Celebrate Chocolate. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th Street NE, Canton, 330-497-1000, gervasivineyard.com.

Prices vary

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

45

SPRING EVENTS 4/9 Adult Flashlight Dash Egg Hunt. The Adult Flashlight Dash is a fast-paced, competitive all-out sprint of an egg hunt just for adults 21 and over. 7:30-9 p.m. Black Brook Golf Course, 8900 Lakeshore Blvd., Mentor, cityofmentor.com. FREE Wildflower Walk. 2-3 p.m.

Brecksville Reservation Nature Center, 9000 Chippewa Creek Dr., 440-526-1012, cleveland metroparks.com FREE Legal Aid at Your Library.

Free, brief advice and referral clinics offered by the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland’s Volunteer Lawyers Program. 9:30-11 a.m. Hough Branch Library, 1566 Crawford Road, Cleveland, 216-623-6997, cpl.org. FREE

46

Your Journey - Your Life

Rock for Water 2016: Recycled Fashion Show.

Lorain Palace Theatre, 617 Broadway, 440-245-2323, lorainpalace.org/rock-forwater. $15-35 4/11 Legal Issues Affecting Seniors. 2-3 p.m. ParmaSnow Branch Library, 2121 Snow Road, Parma, 216-661-4240, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE 4/12 Basket Class: Midnight Illusions. This basket has a woven 6x10 base, overlays and an interesting diagonal curl design, black weaving with a small color accent.

6-9 p.m. Miller Nature Preserve, 2739 Center Road, Avon, 440-937-0764, metroparks.cc. $24-$27

Tea Time Book Club. An afternoon of tea, cookies and a friendly discussion about a great book. 2-3 p.m.

Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd, 440933-8128, alpl.org. FREE Anatomy of Dementia Related to Behaviors H.O.P.E. Series, 6:30-8 p.m. Windsor Heights Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, 23311 Harvard Road, Beachwood. Adult care provided. Pre-registration requested. 216-839-1600.

FREE 4/13 Nature Drawing for Adults. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor. 1-3 p.m. Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org.

FREE

4/14 Pains and Strains in Your Fitness Journey.

Presented by Cleveland Clinic. Enjoy health screenings, wellness vendors, dinner and expert panel discussion. 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Emerald Event Center, 33040 Just Imagine Drive, Avon, clevelandclinic.org/ westfitness. $15 4/15 Pestival. Annual cocktailstyle reception featuring creative cuisine made from garlic mustard, an edible, invasive species pulled from the Nature Center grounds each year.

6-9 p.m. Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, 2600 South Park Blvd., Cleveland, 216321-5935, shakerlakes.org. $65-90

4/17 Breakfast in the Park. Join a morning hike and then return to a hot, delicious breakfast prepared by volunteers. 9-11 a.m. Hinckley Reservation, Redwing Picnic Area, off Bellus Road between Rt. 606 and State Road, Hinckley Twp., 440-526-1012, clevelandmetroparks.com.

FREE

Federation of Cleveland. 2-4 p.m. 4966 Woodland Avenue, Cleveland, jewishcleveland.org.

FREE Ways to Tame Chronic Pain. 6-7 p.m. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, 330-273-4150, mcdl.info. FREE

4/20 Good Health in Store: Supermarket Tours for Diabetes. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Miller’s Market, 711 Wooster St., Lodi, 330-948-5546, akrongeneral.org.

FREE

4/18 Line Dance Party. Line dances lead in a party atmosphere. Light refreshments will be served. 7-9:30 p.m. Mentor Senior Center, 8484 Munson Road, 440-974-5725, cityofmentor.com. $5 5th Annual Fitness & Nutrition On the Go. An evening of nutritious food, exercise demonstrations, and hands-on activities. 6-8 p.m. Chagrin Falls Park Community Center, 7060 Woodland Ave., Chagrin Falls, 440-247-6030, fcsohio.org. FREE 4/19 Volunteer - SC4K (Shoes and Clothes for Kids). Count inventory, sort and pack new clothing and shoes into boxes for distribution with the Jewish

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

47

SPRING EVENTS 4/21 14th Annual Minority Men’s Health Fair. Free screenings and information on many topics. Registration required. 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Glickman Tower/Miller Pavilion, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, my.clevelandclinic.org. FREE 4/21-24 Geauga County Maple Festival. Join in the fun as Geauga County celebrates the coming of spring and the year’s maple syrup crop. Chardon Square (Rt. 6 & Rt. 44), Chardon, maplefestival.com 4/22 & 4/24 Talent Has Hunger. This inspiring film about music’s power to consume and enhance lives focuses on master cello teacher Paul Katz as he helps young

48

Your Journey - Your Life

people nurture their talent.

7 p.m. 4/22, 1:30 p.m. 4/24.

The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-707-2483, clevelandart.org. $7-9 4/22-5/7 Moon Over Buffalo. Old Towne Hall Theatre, 36119 Center Ridge Road, North Ridgeville, 440-327-2909, oldetownhalltheatre.com $10-12 4/24 Sunday Cinema: Enchanted April. 2 p.m.

Lakewood Main Library Auditorium, 15425 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-2268275, lakewoodpubliclibrary. org. FREE Senior Citizen Prom. 1-3 p.m. The Ehrnfelt Recreation & Senior Center, 18100 Royalton Road, Strongsville, 440-580-3260, strongsville. org. $3-5

4/25 Plan Now for Retirement.

Join a financial expert for an overview of the retirement planning process.

Independence Branch Li­ brary, 6361 Selig Dr., 216447-0160, cuyahogalibrary. org. FREE Delicious Discussions - “My Life in France”

by Julia Child. Book discussion held in historic downtown Willoughby. 7-8 p.m. Willoughby Public Library, 30 Public Square, Willoughby, 440-942-3200, we247.org. FREE 4/26 Senior Fest 2016. Health screenings, oldies concert, light lunch and door prizes.

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Spitzer Center at Lorain County Community College, 1005 N. Abbe Road, Elyria, 440-326-4816, loraincounty.com. FREE

4/28 Good Eating on a Fast Food Budget. Heinen’s Wellness Coordinator will discuss how to eat healthfully on a budget. 7-8 p.m.

Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, Westlake, 440-871-2600, westlakelibrary.org. FREE Big Chuck and Lil’ John.

Chuck Schodowski and Solon’s own John Rinaldi will share their stories and comedy bits for a night to reminisce and laugh. 7 p.m.

Solon Branch Library, 34125 Portz Pkwy., 440-248-8777, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE 4/29 - 5/1 Arbor Day - Celebration of Trees. Holden Arboretum, 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, holdenarb.org, 440-946-4400. FREE Admission on 4/29

4/30 Senior Center Garage Sale.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mentor Senior Center, 8484 Munson Road, 440-974-5725, cityofmentor.com. FREE

5/14-15 Cleveland Gems and Jewelry Show.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Soccer Sportsplex, 31515 Lorain Road, North Olmsted, parmalapidary.com. $6

5/1 A Night of Sinatra. TrueNorth Chamber Orchestra and Big Band share the stage with TrueNorth singers as they share Sinatra’s greatest hits. 3 p.m. The Emerald Event Center, 33040 Just Imagine Dr., Avon, 440949-5200, tncarts.org. $55

5/15 House Concert: Ed Caner. 7-8:30 p.m.

Hines Hill Conference Center, 1403 W. Hines Hill Road, Peninsula, 330-6572909, conservancyforcvnp.org. $10

5/16 Silent Films in Sixteen. “The Vagabond” and “The Fireman.”

7-8:30 p.m. Noble Neighborhood Branch Library, 2800 Noble Road, Cleveland, 216-291-5665, heightslibrary.org. FREE

5/4 5 Minutes to Fabulous. Interactive, fun demonstrations using actual clothing, accessories and volunteers from the audience to show women how to look and feel good about themselves. 7-8 p.m. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, 330-2734150, mcdl.info. FREE 5/6 Music Gems of Past Eras. The Piano Department presents a nostalgiafilled musical journey filled with old “chestnuts’ from the turn of the century and early 1900’s. 6:30-8 p.m.

The Music Settlement, 11125 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, 216-421-5806, themusicsettlement.org. FREE 5/6-7 Heritage Hobby Bus Tour. Venture to the Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival to explore how these historic crafts are being done today. Price includes bus tour and hotel room.

Depart from Fairview Park. Register at clevelandmetroparks.com or call with questions 216-206-1000. $175 5/12 Warning Signs of Stroke & Screening. 5-6:30 p.m. UH Parma Health Education Center, 7300 State Road, Parma, uhhospitals.org. FREE 5/14 HorseFest. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, 440-2562122, lakemetroparks.com. Regular admission applies.

Spring Plant Sale. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Exploration Gateway, 5710-5712 12th St., Canton, 330-409-8096, starkparks.com. FREE March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

49

THROWBACK YEAR

It Happened in ...

1965

SURPRISE. SURPRISE.SURPRISE!

Remember when we had to get up to change the TV channels? Here are the top shows of 1965 your family might have watched in order of popularity: “Bonanza,” “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.,” “The Lucy Show,” “Red Skelton Hour,” “Batman,” (the newest episodes), “The Andy Griffith Show,” “Bewitched,” “The Beverly Hillbillies,” “Hogan’s Heroes,” and “Batman,” (the old season).

HIGBEE’S Higbee’s department store at 100 Public Square got an elegant remodel — a block-long main aisle lined with crystal chandeliers. The downtown stalwart was a “dress up” destination for thousands of shoppers. The 10th floor housed The Silver Grille, Winter Garden Restaurant and The Pronto Room.

AND THE BEAT GOES ON...

Tiger Beat magazine debuted in 1965.

Did you save your babysitting money to buy it? Did you tape the posters to your bedroom walls? Did you think The Beach Boys just might want to relocate to Northeast Ohio?

Yes. yes and yes.

HAIR CONTROL Anyone who wanted pictureperfect hair that could withstand a windstorm knew just the product to buy: Dippity-do. It was invented in 1965.

The tub was found on bathroom counters and dressing tables everywhere. Even

50

Your Journey - Your Life

John Coltrain

late rocker Eric Carr, of Kiss, reportedly drenched his hair in Dippity-do when he was a teen and pulled a stocking over his head before bed in an attempt to get his curly hair to lie flat like the Beatles’, according to a CNN program on the history of cosmetics.

CLASSIC JAZZ AND A ROOFTOP SING-A-LONG Jazz saxophonist and composer John Coltrain appeared at Leo’s Casino Aug. 1922, performing songs from his classic album, “A Love Supreme.”

Leo’s Casino was a popular destination for R & B and Motown artists. It was located in the Quad Hall Hotel at 7500 Euclid Ave.

• “Chim Chim Cher-ee” from “Mary Poppins” won best song at the 37th Academy Awards, which honored films from 1964.

Music and lyrics were written by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The ceremony was held April 5.

SOURCES: THE DEPARTMENT STORE MUSEUM, CNN, YEARBORN.NET

PYLE

March/April 2016 • Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond

51