Northeast Ohio Boomer & Beyond |September October 2020

5 Anniversary

Boomer FREE

Northeast Ohio

BETTER LIVING AFTER 50

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 NortheastOhioBoomer.com

Our

th

Issue

and Beyond

GAME-CHANGERS SHOWING US HOW TO ACT OUR AGE

INSIDE

September/October 34

20

NEO Grandparent

5th Anniversary Issue

Connecting with the Grandkids adults

Boomer Impact Awards & More

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Book Club Basics Join One, Start One

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Hugs, Handshakes, Hanging Out What We’re Missing & Why

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Keep It, Sell It, Pitch It

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Let’s Get Outta Here!

42

Museum Check-In (They’re Back)

ON THE COVER TRACEY MASON, KATHRYN EYRING, KAREN TALBOTT

Meet Three People Who Help Us Act Our Age Photos by Kim Stahnke

DEPA RTMENTS 8

15

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28

WORTH NOTING

TECH TALK

HEALTH

LEGAL

Sister Act, Grave Concerns, Pandemic Pet Prep

I’m Here, Can You Hear Me?

Good Night, Treat Right

Medicaid Pitfalls And How to Avoid Them

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MANAGING MEDICARE

Make a Plan To Find a Plan

EDITOR´S NOTE

Five Years and Counting...

Happy Birthday to You!

W

e’ve reached a milestone here at Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond that’s significant in ways that are both professional and personal.

We’re five years old. If we were a kid, we’d be heading to kindergarten.

It’s middle age for a dog, and old for a smartphone. But we’re a magazine, and five means we’re hitting our stride; the credit goes entirely to you, our readers. Happy Birthday!

I’m not big on sharing. I always hold the popcorn at movies and never request two spoons for dessert. But our Fifth Anniversary is an event I’m happy to share with readers, advertisers and everyone else who has supported us, critiqued us and led us through this interesting, invigorating adventure.

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Boomer Northeast Ohio

When publisher Brad Mitchell asked me to consider taking the helm of his newest publication (he also publishes Northeast Ohio Parent), my first thought was, ‘I’m too young to edit a magazine named Boomer.’

Turns out I wasn’t; I made the ‘Boomer’ cut with four years to spare.

I suspect many of you feel the same. Through the years, guided largely by reader feedback, our editorial team has focused on stories about aging well and embracing the changes that come with that journey.

I get it; it doesn’t feel like much of a journey when we’re recovering from surgery, caring for an ill parent or raising a grandchild. It’s part of the deal, and it’s our privilege to highlight the people, programs and institutions that are leading us forward.

Like you, we’re making our way through the pandemic and adjusting to whatever comes next. I pledge to keep our stories positive yet realistic.

I’ll continue to include columnists who have smart answers to tough questions. I’ll inject a bit of fun stuff into every issue.

In exchange (I may not like to share but I unfairly expect it of others), please continue to send me your story ideas and comments. Northeast Ohio is a big place and no one knows it better than you, our readers.

One more thing: if you see a story you like, go ahead and share it to your favorite social media site. The more people who see it, the better.

And please, let our advertisers know where you saw them; our incredible advertisers have enthusiastically supported Boomer — especially during the ongoing pandemic — and allow us to spread the word that Northeast Ohio is a great place to enjoy the next chapter of our life.

Happy Birthday to you! Thanks for inviting us to the party.

and Beyond

VOL. 6 ISSUE 5

Sept/Oct 2020 Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond is a property of Mitchell Media LLC

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

​/​NEOhio​Boomer​

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

M​arie Elium​

​marie@northeastohio​boomer.com

Boomer Northeast Ohio

BOOMER EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

and Beyond

Mindi Axner Executive Director National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland

Coming in the

November/December Issue beginning 11/16

Sharon Dundee Director of Marketing & Communications Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center

GIVE MORE, GET MORE FOODIE FAVORITES MEDICARE ENROLLMENT

Dr. Ardeshir Z. Hashmi Cleveland Clinic Director - Center for Geriatric Medicine Kathy M. Hirko Owner KAZ Company Jeanne Hoban Marketing Communications Director Benjamin Rose Institute Kathryn Kilpatrick President Memory Fitness Matters, LLC Susan Lieberman Director of Marketing & Public Relations Montefiore and The Weils

Holidays at Home (or Close to It)

Kelsey Loushin President Eldercare Professionals of Ohio

Bob Pontius Director of External Relations Danbury Senior Living

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

Stephanie Manning The American Heart Association, Cleveland

Leslie Royce Resnik President Royce Public Relations

Candyce Traci Vice President All Media Design Group

Steven Marsh Dr. Steve Marsh, DDS

Beth Silver Director of Public Relations and Marketing Menorah Park

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

Fatima Perkins Director of Community Outreach Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging

September/October 2020

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WORTH NOTING Compiled by Marie Elium

Pet Prep For the Pandemic

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Sister Act

T

happy byproduct of the pandemic is an uptick in pet adoptions.

The Northeast Ohio SPCA has handy tips for new and seasoned pet owners who may unexpectedly become sick from COVID-19 (or any other serious illness).

These Boomers are OK

hey talk about Millennial kids, awkward incidents with naked bananas and torn stockings.

The greater Akron-based podcasting team and sisters Jean Mader and Laura Bettinger Spelich have hit a sweet spot, podcast-wise, with their friendly, freewheeling, pleasantly rambling “OK Boomer” podcast.

Mader, 66, and Spelich, 60, encourage Boomers, Millennials and everyone to be “Happily OK together.” It’s an upbeat message that very much feels like you’re eavesdropping on two close sisters who

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Better Living After 50

are catching up for the week.

With backgrounds in law, real estate, teaching, app development, kid-raising, marriage and more, the sisters draw on a variety of topics and interests. It’s fun to hang on and see what pops up next.

“We don’t mind talking about anything, as long as it’s helpful and kind. And humorous. And we support each other – we can do anything, no matter our ages,” the sisters say.

You can find “OK Boomer” on your favorite podcast platform. Learn more at OKBoomerPod.com or on Twitter and Instagram at OK_BoomerPod.

• Keep at least a two-week supply of pet food, water, medication and a travel crate on hand.

• Line up people who can take care of your pets in an emergency.

• Have a written care plan with feeding details, veterinarian information, medication schedules and up-to-date vaccination records.

• Pets can be a great comfort during stressful times. Try to keep your pet with you if you become ill and need to self-quarantine.

Crush It (In a Good Way) W

ouldn’t it be nice to say you felt your age… and that was a good thing?

Getting older gets a bad rap – some of it deserved. Stuff wears out; knees, eyesight, hearing, memory.

R.I.P.

PHOTO BY TIM FOOR

Restoration in Peace

A healthy lifestyle goes a long way toward helping us feel better.

National Active Aging Week kicks off Oct. 1, coinciding with the International Day of Older Persons. Watch our website

O

(northeastohioboomer.com) for virtual and socially distant events that promote healthy lifestyles. On social media, use #ActiveAgingWeek to follow the nationwide activities and conversation.

ld cemeteries are interesting places for a peaceful autumn ramble. Beautiful marble statues, imposing mausoleums and poignant inscriptions make a suitable backdrop for contemplation.

But in many small cemeteries, the dead may rest in peace below ground, yet it’s chaos above them. Broken gravestones, toppling monuments and rusty iron pins that bleed onto the stone are just a few challenges for cemetery restorers like Tim Foor.

Part detective, part engineer, part artist, Foor brings respectful order to old cemeteries,

victims of vandalism, shoddy repairs, weather and other ravages of time.

One of his latest projects has been at the historic Baptist Cemetery in northern Portage County, where he’s methodically piecing together broken gravestones, resetting and cleaning them, to restore dignity to final resting places.

The next time you find yourself in an old cemetery, keep two things in mind: nothing lasts forever – even stone, and there are people like Foor who try to defy that fact.

“In a lot of situations, I end up finding things that have been lost to time. I like recovering the past.”

September/October 2020

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NortheastOhioBoomer.com

9

WORTH NOTING

No Sweat

Exercise Your Right to Vote Do you feel the heat?

That’s not an early-fall temperature spike. The presidential election is heating up, and no matter who you support, everyone can agree that voting is one of our most treasured American institutions.

A nonpartisan resource is the League of Women Voters of Greater Cleveland. For updated news on voting issues and candidate statements, go to my.lwv.org/ohio/greater-cleveland.

With an emphasis on voter access and education, the League does not endorse candidates; it promotes voter access, registration and education.

To learn more about voter registration, to become a poll worker or to request a mail-in ballot for the November election, go to the official Ohio elections website at ohiosos.gov/elections/voters.

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ANTIVIRUS Anti-Scams

A

s if we all don’t have enough to think about right now, here’s one more thing: coronavirus scams.

Crooks are posing as contact tracers representing health departments, purportedly to help control the spread of the virus.

Contact tracers need health information, never personal financial details and never money.

Here are more tips from the Federal Trade Commission’s website, ftc.gov/coronavirus/ scams-consumer-advice: • Ignore texts, emails or calls about government checks.

• Ignore offers for vaccinations and home test kits. Most kits are not FDA-approved and aren’t necessarily accurate.

• Hang up on robocalls. Scammers are selling bogus low-priced health insurance and work-at-home schemes.

• Watch for emails claiming to be from the CDC or WHO. Use sites like coronavirus.gov and usa.gov/coronavirus to get the latest information. Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know.

• Never donate in cash, by gift card or by wiring money.

Dude, Where’s My Medical Marijuana?

P

rescription pot for pain, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s and other serious medical conditions became legal in Ohio four years ago. It’s gaining acceptance slowly through the medical community and many prospective patients are confused about who gets it and how.

A good place to start is the Ohio Medical Marijuana Control Program website.

On medicalmarijuana.ohio.gov, you’ll find the full list of qualifying conditions, prescribing physicians, dispensaries, legal forms and everything else you need to know about using medical marijuana. Caregivers can also get answers to their questions about accessing the drug for their loved ones.

September/October 2020

The toll-free helpline is 1-833-464-6627.

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Book Club Basics JOIN ONE; START ONE

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By Mike McGraw

eading a book is a quintessentially solitary experience. Add a book club to the mix and it becomes a way to connect with others.

Not only can a book club prompt us to pick up a title we may not have considered trying, but once we read it, we’re encouraged to share our perspective. The trade-off? We get to hear what others think about the book, oftentimes from perspectives that may be very different from our own.

Most local libraries and bookstores host book clubs or can tell you where to find one or how to start one. Staff members are terrific sources for advice for getting the most out of a book club. The COVID19 pandemic and its associated lockdown may have thrown a curveball at these professionals, but they’ve nimbly adjusted to the times and constraints posed by social distancing. And, with few exceptions, so have book club members.

HOT BOOKS, HOT TOPICS Bibliophiles are always on the hunt for their next fix. Check out our Book Shelf selections on the next page. Here are a few more that Northeast Ohio book clubs have read or have on tap for fall, according to Grace Harper of Mac’s Backs-Books on Coventry.

“Lost Children Archive” by Valeria Luiselli “Severance” by Ling Ma “Her Body and Other Parties” by Carmen Maria Machado “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison “There There” by Tommy Orange

ONLINE-ONLY BOOK CLUBS If a local book club isn’t appealing or you want a limited-commitment experience, consider an online-only book club. Here a few favorites: • Oprah’s Book Club Oprah.com • Goodreads Choice Awards Book Club Goodreads.com • Reese’s Book Club - Hello Sunshine Hello-sunshine.com • #ReadwithJenna today.com/read-with-jenna

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NO CONTACT, NO WORRIES Jessica Breslin, branch manager for the Cuyahoga County Public Library, says Zoom and other video conferencing options for book clubs, as necessitated by social distancing considerations, “takes geography out of the equation. You can include friends and family that may have relocated, snowbirds or others that normally would miss out.”

Grace Harper of Mac’s Backs-Books on Coventry in Cleveland Heights, which hosts several book clubs, agrees.

“People seem to be responding pretty well to meeting remotely. It’s a great way to stay connected, and everyone is relaxed and safe in their own homes.”

Emily Forsee, who runs one of Mac’s book groups, says Zoom is not a 100% replacement for in-person interaction.

“It was an adjustment — the talking at the same time and making sure members with varying levels of technical skills were able to access the platform — were challenges at the beginning, but after a minimal amount of settling-in time, we have pretty seamlessly adapted to the new format without too much fuss.”

While allowing that some members who had attended in-person drifted away from the Zoom group, others who had moved out of state were able to continue to attend because of the Zoom format.

SO, YOU WANT TO START A BOOK CLUB? You’ve looked around but can’t find a book club that’s convenient or seems like a good fit. Sounds like it’s time to start your own. Jessica Breslin, branch manager for the Cuyahoga County Public Library, offers these tips to get your book club off the ground: AUDIENCE: Who will be your target audience? Neighbors, church friends, relatives?

Do you want people of different ages and backgrounds?

MEETING LOCATION: Is there an interesting or central place to meet? Should we meet in a public place or in members’ homes?

MEETING TIME: When will be a good day/time to maximize attendance? How often will you meet?

GETTING COPIES: How will you secure and distribute copies of the book selections? Will this be a borrow-only book club or one that expects members to buy the latest titles? How will you decide which books to read? Some clubs choose books for the entire year; others choose at the prior meeting.

PUBLICITY: Word of mouth really helps in terms of members; invite people as you strike up conversations with friends and neighbors.

As far as the tendency of people in a Zoom group to miss cues and talk over each other, Foresee says that, as a moderator, she can look for faces of people who are wanting to speak, and “for larger groups, there are tools

such as the “raise the hand” feature that can allow for a more formalized moderator/speaker format.”

Book clubs are a good way to meet people (virtually or in-person), explore topics you might not be

familiar with, and engage in lively discussions with people who like to read as much as you do. Whether you start with a safe, social distancing experience or go entirely online with videoconferencing, a book club may be just the cure for the not-enoughfun-things-to-do blues.

TELL US ABOUT YOURS We want to hear about your book club. What are you reading? How long have you been meeting? How do you choose books? Who leads the discussion? Email us at editor@ northeastohioboomer.com and we’ll spotlight your book club in an upcoming issue of Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond.

Mike McGraw is a book lover whose writing has appeared in PRIZM, Freshwater Cleveland, Wish Cleveland, and the Cleveland Street Chronicle. He lives in Cleveland Heights.

Bookshelf FAN CLUB

BOOK LOVERS’ FAVES FOR FALL If you’re in a book club or know someone who is, you know that book selections are a big deal.

You can’t judge a book by its cover, but you can judge a book club by what it reads. Grace Harper of Mac’s Backs-Books on Coventry gave us this list of recent book club picks.

Mostly Dead Things

Giovanni’s Room

The Sellout

By Kristen Arnett

By James Baldwin

By Paul Beatty

A father’s suicide, a taxidermy shop and an artist who creates aggressively lewd art — with the stuffed animals.

There’s a lot to unravel in this complex family tale. And, truthfully, aren’t you curious about a book with a taxidermy subtheme? We are.

Baldwin’s second novel about gay life in 1950s Paris fits the bill for book club fodder.

There’s plenty to talk about and process when an American discovers and tries to resist as he wrestles with his impulses. Some will love it. Some won’t get it. That’s the beauty of a book club discussion.

Sometimes the best way to process race relations is through satire.

Beatty is a master of it, bringing together disparate topics of dads and sons, the Civil Rights Movement, slavery and the Constitution. It’s a lot to take in. Beatty is more than up to the challenge.

Nice Big American Baby

Girl, Woman, Other

By Judy Budnitz

The joint winner of the Man Booker Prize 2019, “Girl, Woman, Other” provides snapshots of the lives of 12 British women, mostly Black, and their diverse realities.

Set in contemporary Great Britain, the book is a poetic and detailed fictional story of women from a variety of backgrounds and experiences.

By Bernardine Evaristo

Described as “modern fables” by one reviewer, these 12 short stories are inventive and sometimes bizarre, traversing the worlds of a man and a mailorder bride, the link between a surrogate mother and son, and a woman who crosses the border to give birth on American soil.

September/October 2020

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13

FOOD

Cool-Weather Cooking

AN APPETITE FOR BRAISING

By John Selick

I

’ve spent most of the summer in my backyard, cooking on the grill; it’s one of my favorite ways to prepare food. Who doesn’t love being outside with that unmistakable smoky aroma of grilled food? As the weather starts to get cooler and the days get shorter, I’m looking forward to putting away the grill for the winter and dusting off my Dutch oven for heartier meals.

While I love my grill, I also love my Dutch oven and slow cooker. I use them occasionally throughout the year but they get the most use in winter for braises or stews.

A Dutch oven is a heavy-duty pot, often enamel-coated cast iron or sometimes just cast iron. With its tight-fitting lid, it’s designed to be used on a stovetop then transferred to the oven. It retains and distributes heat evenly, which is helpful in the

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Better Living After 50

beginning portion of the cooking process for searing meats and caramelizing vegetables.

I have a really nice Le Creuset Dutch oven. My wife gave it to me as a birthday gift years ago and I’ve gotten a lot of use out of it. It was expensive, but I must say, it’s worth every penny as it still looks great and it will probably be handed down to one of my children. I also have a “celebrity chef”- brand Dutch oven that I’ve been using before I met my wife, and that one works really well, too. It’s bigger than my Le Creuset and was much cheaper. It hasn’t held up quite as well as the Le Creuset; it looks like it has taken abuse over the years, but it still performs really well and some of the best meals I’ve ever made were prepared in it. (I’m not a paid spokesperson for either brand but I’m willing to listen to offers).

PLAYING FAVORITES I recently saw a Facebook post in a food group, asking everyone to name their least-favorite kitchen gadget, and several said it was their slow cooker. I was surprised by that, as I really like mine. There is nothing better than coming home and opening the door when the slow cooker has been working all day.

I think many people have had substandard meals out of their slow cooker because they dump everything in and turn it on. But you have to develop flavor, and that is done by searing. Season the meat first and then brown it in a pan over high heat. When the meat is nicely browned, place it in the slow cooker and then return your pan to the stove and add any vegetables that you want to use.

Cook the vegetables over medium heat to sweat them (draw moisture to the surface), or higher heat to caramelize them. When they are cooked nicely, add liquid like wine or stock. Water is fine, too, if that’s all you have. When it comes to a simmer and all the brown bits get off the pan, add it to the slow cooker and turn it on. At the end of the day, you’re going to have a tender and rich dish — but there’s more! You still have to thicken the sauce, and that works best by simmering it with a thickener like cornstarch or flour. I like to thicken the sauce by mixing leftover coffee and flour to make a slurry and then whisk it into the simmering sauce.

Although you seasoned the meat in the beginning, taste the final product before serving to see if it needs more flavor.

I’m going to miss cooking outside in the gorgeous weather, but the comforting stews will make the winter a little more enjoyable.

John Selick is a Certified Executive Chef and president of the American Culinary Federation Cleveland Chapter.

TECH TALK

IT SHOULDN’T BE THIS DIFFICULT • In a regular virtual meeting, participants see and hear each other; it’s a two-way communication. In a webinar, (an extra cost to the webinar hosts), participants see and hear only the host, making it a one-way communication.

I’m Here Can You Hear Me? By Tak Sato

• If you’re using a videoconference service for the first time, you’ll be prompted to install that service’s videoconferencing software or app (for tablets and smartphones). You can install multiple client software or apps from different services.

A PARODY SERIES TO CELEBRATE THIS MAGAZINE’S FIFTH ANNIVERSARY WOULD BE AWESOME.

I can almost hear the actor Sir Patrick Stewart reciting: “Internet: the final frontier.

These are the voyages of Northeast Ohio Boomers. Their continuing mission: to explore the vast digital world. To seek out beneficial services and free entertainment.

To boldly go where no Boomer has gone before.”

HERE & NOW Although many “Star Trek” innovations are (still) fiction, real-world engineers have mimicked some of its gadgets and made them indispensable. Popular lore says the fictional “tricorder” was the design inspiration for cell phones. Today’s smartphones and smartwatches monitoring our health are uncannily similar to the series’ “medical tricorder.”

Living thousands of miles away from my parents, I’ve been using videoconferencing applications for decades, first on computers and later on handheld devices such as smartphones and tablets.

Used for working from home, online education, or to maintain social ties with family, friends and communities, videoconferencing has become an increasingly common way to bridge social distancing.

From the relatively unknown Zoom app that was catapulted to ubiquity status with the onset of COVID-19 to Microsoft’s familiar Skype, there are many makes and models for video chats.

Just like any car takes you from point A to point B, all videoconference services do the same thing: enable you to listen, talk to, and see the meeting participants — including yourself — in real time on your device’s screen.

If different videoconference services deliver the same utility, users seem to encounter similar kinds of issues: lousy audio and video.

From my experience helping people, the trifecta of: they can’t hear me, they can’t see me, I can’t hear them tops my list.

When using a tablet or smartphone for a meeting, troubleshooting these issues on a smartphone or tablet is frustratingly common but relatively simple: make sure the

• Most videoconferencing services on a personal computer may also work fine through the browser, for example Google’s Chrome, Mozilla’s Firefox, or Apple’s Safari, without installing the client software.

microphone, video or speakers are turned on.

It’s easy to mute the audio on a handheld device. Making matters worse, the controls often disappear after several seconds. One tip: if you can’t see any application controls, tapping the screen should bring them back into view.

To troubleshoot those same issues on a desktop computer, find the application’s Settings, Preferences or Audio/Video Settings section.

Unless your audio component inside your computer is already broken (Run a test with a YouTube video. If you can hear it with the speakers on and volume up, it’s fine), the Settings section of the application helps you find the right adjustment.

The probability of a They can’t hear me issue increases with an external USB webcam. Unless your integrated webcam/ microphone is broken and you need an external USB webcam, you shouldn’t have this problem on laptops, Chromebooks or all-in-one computers that contain all their components behind a screen. The other type of traditional desktop computer uses a cable to connect its monitor to its operating components.

Operating systems running on traditional desktop computers can get confused when a USB webcam is attached. In the Settings section, switch the computer’s video and microphone to the USB webcam. That should fix the problem.

Finally, use the same etiquette in a video meeting that you use in an in-person meeting. Remember, the other participants can see you, hear you, and often have the ability to record you. You don’t want to go viral or become an internet meme.

September/October 2020

• Always refer to the meeting invite email sent by the meeting host. It should include information, such as a link to join the meeting automatically when clicked/tapped, meeting ID and meeting password if joining manually, and a toll-free call-in telephone number. Print the invite in case of technical issues.

• If you encounter technical issues, you can always listen in on a meeting so you don’t miss anything. Take a deep breath, take out your phone and call into the meeting with the information in your meeting invite email you printed out the night before.

• Don’t wait until the last minute to check your audio and video setup. You can always use the link or ID and password in your meeting invite email in advance to test your settings.

As Lord Baden-Powell said, “Be Prepared!”

Tak Sato is a founder of the Cleveland-area nonprofit Center for Aging in the Digital World (empoweringseniors.org) that teaches digital literacy to people 50+ through the free Discover Digital Literacy program.

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HEALTH

Ask the Orthopedist

Good Night, Treat Right CAN THE WAY YOU SLEEP CAUSE SHOULDER PAIN?

By Dr. Reuben Gobezie

I

f shoulder pain is keeping you from sleeping at night, there is no doubt you are frustrated and want to find a way to stop it. When a patient tells me they have shoulder pain at night, they will often ask if it’s because they tend to sleep on their side.

Prolonged pressure on the shoulder from sleeping on your side can become painful, especially if there is an underlying condition in the shoulder joint or upper arm. Pain at night is not normal and it’s certainly a red flag that something needs to be addressed.

For side sleepers, this is commonly bursitis. Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, which is a fluid-filled pad that provides a cushion to the bones of the joint. When injured, fluid in the bursa increases and this swelling can be painful.

Other conditions that could lead to shoulder pain at night include biceps tendinitis, rotator cuff injuries or overuse injuries from a specific activity or shoulder motion that you make repetitively. Racquet and ball-throwing sports are common culprits, but any repetitive shoulder motion can cause an overuse injury.

Biceps tendinitis is usually the result of long-term overuse and deterioration of the biceps tendon that connects muscles and bones in the shoulder joint. Tendons may also get less flexible

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Better Living After 50

as we age, and more prone to injury.

Tendinopathy is often part of the aging process. Biceps tendinopathy can give sharp pains in the arm with certain motions, like reaching behind yourself.

Rotator cuff injuries usually involve a tear in these tendons. The rotator cuff includes four muscles that come together as tendons and connect your humerus bone to the shoulder blade.

The cuff provides shoulder stability and enables movement. Damage to any one of the four muscles could result in inflammation and swelling and general shoulder pain. Rotator cuff tears are common and may result from a fall or lifting something too heavy, too fast.

But most tears occur as the tendons wear down over time.

SELF HELP One of the first and easiest things you can do to try to relieve pain is to carefully stretch the shoulder before you go to bed. Stretching can increase the range of motion of the shoulder joint and lessen the pain. The following simple motions can increase flexibility: • Shrug shoulders up and down • Roll the shoulders in a backward motion • Do a wall stretch (stand close to a wall and walk your fingers up as high as you can and hold) Some things you can try at home to

reduce the pain and inflammation include: • Take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen or acetaminophen • Sleep in a recliner • Apply ice or heat • Wear a compression sleeve • Take a break from activities that may have contributed to overuse of the shoulder If the shoulder pain doesn’t go away or worsens, see an orthopedic specialist. It’s important to properly diagnose your condition to ensure you’re getting the best treatment. A specialist will evaluate your X-ray or MRI and determine a care plan.

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

Dr. Reuben Gobezie is the founding director of The Cleveland Shoulder Institute and Regen Orthopedics (844-SHOULDR).

Grand

Fun With the Grandkids

9/19 Super Science Saturday: Fabulous Fall.

The season is filled with changing leaves, growing pumpkins, apple harvesting and more.

10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Copley, 330-665-3466, akronfossils.com. $10

Northeast Ohio

Core Values

9/19-10/31 Fun Fest. Play in the haystacks and corncrib, climb the treehouse in the woods. Patterson Farms, 8765 Mulberry Road, Chesterland, 440729-9809, pattersonfarm.com. $5-8 9/19, 9/26 & 10/3 Harvest Days. Featuring u-pick apples, homemade cider donuts, apple cider, food truck, live music, children paint-your-own pumpkins, farm animals and pony rides. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Bauman Orchards, 161 Rittman Ave., Rittman, 330-925-6861, baumanorchards.com

Apple-Picking Pleasures

9/26-10/26 Pumpkin Pandemonium. Bring the family for a scavenger hunt, get lost in the Harvest Maze and take a relaxing hayride around the farm. Shop for pumpkins of all sizes, gourds, corn stalks and straw bales. Heritage Farms, 6050 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, 330-657-2330, heritagefarms.com. $5-11 9/27 Migrating Monarchs: Butterfly Tag & Release Event. 10:30-11:30 a.m. & 12:30-1:30 p.m. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-863-5533, stanhywet.org. $6-9 9/29 Nature Explorers: Spying on Spiders.

Games, other hands-on activities, and a spider search. Outdoors; dress accordingly. Children should be dropped off and picked up by their parents. 10 a.m.-noon. Beartown Lakes Reservation, 18870 Quinn Rd., Chagrin Falls, geaugaparkdistrict.org. FREE 10/2-10/4 Horsepower Weekend. Horses and tractors have been used throughout the years in the harvest. Help plow the field with draft horses and watch other harvest activities provided by horsepower. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com. $6-8

Plus

Building a Lifetime of Connections Supplement to

Boomer Northeast Ohio

and Beyond

10/4 & 10/11 3rd Annual Education & STEM Expos.

Can’t-miss education event of the season with precautions to provide a safe, clean and socially distanced experience. 40-plus schools and education-related businesses, engaging STEM activities, outdoor fun, raffle prize giveaways and more. 10/4 - Acacia Clubhouse at Cleveland Metroparks, Lyndhurst. 10/11 - Market Square at Crocker Park, Westlake. northeastohioparent.com/education-expo.

FREE 10/8 Spooky Species - Leopard Frog: Virtual. Meet Castella the leopard frog, and learn about why these animals are so important to have around.

6-6:30 p.m.starkparks.com. FREE September/October 2020

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Core Values Apple-Picking Pleasures

By Karen Shadrach

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Better Living After 50

T Apple Crisp Recipe Spread 4 cups of sliced apples evenly in an 8-inch square pan. Sprinkle with a mixture of ¼ cup water, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and ½ teaspoon salt.

Work together until crumbly, 1 cup sugar, ¾ cup flour and 1/3 cup soft butter.

Spread the crumb mixture over the apples. Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes at 350 degrees. Serve warm. * Source: “Betty Crocker’s Cook Book for Boys and Girls”

he air is getting cooler and the leaves are starting to turn colors.

It’s beginning to feel like fall and it’s time for apple-picking. The only thing better than spending a sunny, crisp fall day in an orchard picking apples is sharing this fall tradition with grandchildren.

Apple-picking season starts in September and lasts until late October. Apple varieties ripen at different times, so be sure to check if there is a specific type you wish to pick. Our favorite apple-picking farms include Pick n’ Save Orchard in Medina and Patterson Farm in Chesterland. A quick search online will turn up more than 20 other pick-your-own orchards in Northeast Ohio.

HOW LOW CAN YOU GO? Apple trees are smaller in size and the apples grow lower to the ground, allowing younger children to pick apples themselves. Sometimes, the branches are so heavily laden with apples that they touch the ground.

With our family’s two sets of twins in tow, we need to lift the girls up to pick most of the apples, but the boys can easily find the perfect apple to pick on their own. The farm will provide you with buckets for your apples. These can get quite heavy quickly. Bring smaller containers if you think they will be needed. Also, there are usually wagons or apple carts available to pull around your containers. Children are not permitted to ride in these carts, so if you have younger grandkids, you may want to bring along your own wagon.

Dress for the weather and wear a sun hat. It is important to wear layers as it gets warm and sunny, even if it is chilly when you leave home. The grass is usually quite tall in the fields and around the trees so it is a good idea to wear long pants and even boots if the grass is wet from rain the previous night before you pick.

EASY PICKINGS Pick apples by using a counterclockwise twisting motion, which will break the apple off from its stem.

(Look for brown spots and wormholes before twisting.) Remind the kids not to drop the apples. Hold with both hands and then place gently in your container.

Wash the apples before you eat them.

Our kids like to pick smaller apples because these are perfect to pack in lunches and make great snacks.

Many of the farms offer hayrides around the farm and out to the apple trees on the weekends. We prefer to go on weekdays, because there are fewer people and we feel more relaxed roaming through the apple trees for pictures and enjoying the experience. Some farms have chickens, horses and other animals for the grandkids to pet and feed.

Apple-picking is such a fun fall tradition. It provides the opportunity to see different apple trees and try the tastes of many apple varieties. Most apple orchards have freshly made cider and apple fritters, donuts and pies for sale. We always make time for cider and a donut before heading home.

Apples store well in the refrigerator.

You can peel, dice and cook apples with cinnamon for a delicious fresh applesauce. Our little Abigail loves and always wants to eat donuts, so we had to come up with a healthier alternative: “Abby’s Apples.” We make these healthy “donuts” by cutting out the core and slicing the apple horizontally.

Spread the slices with flavored cream cheese or peanut butter and top with raisins or mini chocolate chips.

Go apple-picking with your grandkids and share the fun and beauty of an autumn orchard.

September/October 2020

Karen Shadrach is an on-the-go, in-the-know grandmother of two sets of twins. Read her grandparenting blog at northeastohioboomer.com

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Building a Lifetime of Connections

Grandkids, Grand Adults

By Traci McBride

Do-Togethers Journaling, gardening, boating, travel, birdwatching, swimming, tennis, cooking, decorating, collecting, antiquing, auto repairing, car shows, chess, checkers, creating a family cookbook that includes stories of inspiration.

Conversation Starters • “What does a day in your life look like?”

• “Who are your best friends and why?”

• “What brings you joy?”

• “What would the perfect summer vacation look like?”

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H

ad we known how special being a grandparent was going to be, we might have had more kids.

Grandparenting has many rewarding milestones. Many of us have been blessed to live near our grandchildren, seeing them weekly or more often. Others manage the logistics of faraway kiddos. I juggle both scenarios, embracing all the“firsts,” knowing that the little ones won’t remember most of it and that they will be adults much longer than their fleeting childhoods.

MAKING TIME Life gets more complicated as grandkids age into their teen years and beyond. Staying involved is more challenging as their day-to-day lives get busy with college, jobs, relationships and, later, kids of their own.

Over time, a relationship with older grandchildren means seeing each other during the holidays and major family events.

Grandparents can feel marginalized during this later stage. It is on us to look for opportunities and common threads of interest to stay relevant and connected.

Struggling for ways to connect with the teens and young adults in your life? Here’s what worked for several Northeast Ohio grandparents: Judy R. “My Margie (27) loves to cook, as I do. She set me up with an iPad so we could cook together virtually, as she is in Columbus. We choose recipes a week before so we each can shop and cook together to show her my secrets and techniques. We both love it.”

Joan G. “When my granddaughter Brittany was 12, we journaled about our experiences during a summer vacation.

We had that passion in common for years. It has developed to an online-shared journal now that we are in different time zones, and we chat on Zoom every few weeks to continue our conversation. It means the world to me to help her during some tough times of being an adult with kids of her own now.”

Henry J. “My grandson, Mark (31) and I have an ongoing chess game on Facetime every Sunday morning over coffee.”

Howard & Gretchen H. “We love to RV and meet up for camping with our grandson Matt (39) and his wife and kids a few times a year for long weekends. We cook and laugh, swim and plan the next adventure.”

FINDING COMMON GROUND The College Years • Visit the campus and experience their day-to-day life • Send care packages of homemade bakery, notes and photos to make them smile • Attend a class with them Dos & Don’ts DO – Invest in a smartphone or tablet. Choose the brand they use.

DO – Follow them on social media (Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, etc.). Ask first!

DO - Learn the technology of whatever social media they use so you can easily connect. Facetime, Zoom, Skype and Google Hangouts are the most popular and free.

DO - Listen to their music DO - Accept the tattoos even if you do not understand why they have them (or get one with them) DO - Organize family reunions.

Connecting cousins and extended family deepens relationships for the generations.

DON’T - Make it all about you.

Focus on their passions & dreams, regardless of what they are.

DON’T - Lecture

Resources • Online: grandparentunleashed.com • On Facebook: @grandparentgrandchildconnection • A book and website: “Grandma’s in the Phone!” Shelbyhoefling.com

Traci McBride is not only a grandmother, but is also a Northeast Ohio image consultant, author and volunteer.

You can find her at teemcbee.com.

September/October 2020

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Hugs, Handshakes & Hanging Out MAKING UP FOR WHAT WE’RE MISSING

By Rosette Barron Haim

R

emember when your parents made you practice your handshake?

Not too soft like a fish; that would mean you couldn’t be trusted, but not too strong; that would crush a hand (especially if a woman wore a ring.)

Essential to that first impression was the proper, firm handshake. Your handshake was your word.

Those were the days, too, when a warm hug meant “I recognize you and care about you.” The hug came with a bonus of the release of endorphins in your body that offered comfort and connection.

And a kiss hello on the cheek?

My parents were Turkish-Jews, so culturally on both counts, if you neglected the air-kiss on one cheek or two, you were deemed disrespectful and fated to hear the dreaded, “Honey, give ‘your aunt’ a kiss hello.”

Every guest received the honorific title of aunt or uncle.

With the Coronavirus hanging onto everything we touch, it has destroyed the greetings that were second nature to the way we conveyed more than just ‘hello.’ In this era, how do we say hello and communicate all these other aspects of these simple greetings?

GREETINGS WITH MEANINGS During these last few months of the pandemic, like you, I’ve tried to figure out how to greet people I care about and even the stranger in a way that best protects us both from this dreaded virus.

At first, I’d do the elbow touch. Then I realized that we have been taught to cough and sneeze in our elbows, so that is a really bad idea. Plus it meant upending social distancing guidelines.

I started examining other cultures

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for their greetings and discovered that their forms of acknowledgment served the purpose of maintaining modesty or of managing position.

A woman and man would not shake hands but nod their heads; a bow would show humility but who went first mattered. So what’s left?

The wave—not the kind you do at the baseball stadium—who knows when we’ll be there again... No, the wave, like a handshake, has a discernable firmness or shyness associated with it. It is a gesture of enthusiasm if done rapidly; if the hand is stationary at eye level, it is respectful; with the pageant wave, we convey a warm hello.

Indeed, the wave requires a certain amount of confidence and courage.

And when accompanied by facial expressions if you’re significantly socially distanced outside, or even just the positioning of eyebrows when wearing a mask, it shares a message of joy, sadness, hopeful friendship or harassed hurriedness. It’s an invitation to come to join you or to keep your distance.

And the hug. I’ve started hugging myself with the exuberance I’d be hugging the person in front of me.

Add jumping up and down to indicate ‘I’m sooo happy to see you;’ add the downcast head and hand to your heart to mean ‘I’m so sorry for your loss.’

And our words matter even more than before. What would your parents

say before “use your words”? Your word can be your seal of a deal.

Your words written in a letter or on a makeshift sign point to the way we are reminded that our words matter.

Keeping our distance while sustaining our relationships matters.

Perhaps like me, you’ve never appreciated your backyard more.

Meeting outdoors in good weather answers the need to see friends and family. As I anticipate the fall, I imagine more wear for those fabulous sweaters and scarves I’ve accumulated while dining outside or when walking and hiking outdoors with friends to keep warm.

While we feel all kinds of losses in this pandemic, we’re also expanding our symbolic greetings and the ways we entertain to make up for them.

We’re all doing our best to find ways to keep each other safe and still keep each other close to our hearts and conduct our business. When it’s over, God-willing soon, the silver lining may well be that we will have learned a new language to convey our caring for each other and for everyone in our communities.

Rabbi Rosette Barron Haim of Beachwood is the creator of Celebrating Jewish Life.

CelebratingJewishLife.com is a subscription series that seeks to balance the social and sacred aspects of Jewish holiday traditions through meaningful spiritual, cultural and communal experiences.

Memorabilia Management What to Keep, What to Sell, What to Pitch Article and photography by Estelle Rodis-Brown

I

“

never want to be a burden to you,” Dad often told my Mom and us kids. He was always the man with a plan… a retirement plan, an investment plan, an end-of-life plan.

So it seems almost intentional that, 12 years since his passing, we’re still digging through the endless layers of papers, books and memorabilia he left behind. As Mom readies the family home for sale after 50+ years, Dad’s stuff has become the biggest burden.

truly worth keeping.

My family is not alone. According to a 2018 TD Ameritrade survey, 42% of Americans plan to downsize after retirement (25% moving to a warmer climate; 17% moving closer to family and 6% moving to a senior living community). Thousands of people are wading through stuff accumulated over a lifetime… their own or their parents’. If you’re among them, help is here to keep you from drowning in it.

SAVERS

Once you take stock of all the stuff crammed into closets and storage rooms, you could be tempted to chuck it all into the nearest dumpster. Don’t!

According to Stephanie Pulling, Sales and Marketing Director at Transitional Design Services (an estate liquidator based out of Akron), there are specific steps you should take to sort and declutter while preparing the family home for sale.

“No matter the size of the space or home a person is attempting to declutter or downsize, it is overwhelming,” she admits. “Typically, people start to think about this process and think ‘big space’ like the basement needs to be cleaned out, but we recommend that you actually start small, with something very manageable like a desk drawer or a nightstand. This way, you feel accomplished in a short amount of time.”

This isn’t a simple case of piles of worthless junk. It’s a complex, systematic outgrowth of decades of saving every scrap of paper that my dad was convinced could be useful someday in terms of research, record-keeping or posterity.

Volumes of neatly-clipped receipts from daily purchases (1941-1978); paper bags filled with newspaper clippings; file drawers stuffed with syllabi, professorial lecture notes and graded essays represent the tip of the iceberg.

But mingled between those leaves of mundane paperwork, we have discovered late-night notes my dad wrote to his loved ones; immigration papers, a marriage license and other valuable documents; even a series of neatly-pressed $20 and $50 bills, separated out in monthly pay-stub envelopes. We have to sift through every file, every book, every box, just to ensure we don’t miss something

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WHERE TO BEGIN

Pulling says to sort items into one of only four categories. Mark each box, tub and furniture with painters’ tape or marker accordingly: • RETAIN (furniture, art, collectibles, memorabilia you want to keep) • SELL (items with a monetary value but you can live without) • DONATE (items that are useable or can be recycled but aren’t valuable enough to sell) • DISPOSE (trash, broken items,

• Donate/sell clothes and shoes that don’t fit. Current-style clothes, shoes, coats, purses and accessories can be sold on consignment. Start with the current season. Attempting the entire closet at once can be overwhelming.

• Donate/sell furniture and housewares you don’t like, are outdated or that you won’t use.

Start with the items that fail to bring you happiness. (Pyrex nesting bowls and mid-century modern furniture are common but are popular/valuable to sell.)

• Pare down collections like Lladro and Hummel figurines, Longaberger baskets and vinyl to sell. Take a photo of the collection and have the photo professionally matted and framed to preserve the memory.

• Avoid holding onto items that look nice but aren’t practical. Keep furniture that has more than one function, such as a storage ottoman.

• Get rid of the guilt. Stop saving things “just in case” you need it.

• Hire someone to help you. They can help you think less emotionally and keep you on task.

ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

recyclables, hazardous waste, papers that need to be shredded)

STEP BY STEP

Pulling stresses that starting small ensures early victories that will keep you motivated to continue the process and see you through to putting your house on the market and making a happy transition to your retirement property: • First, make a mental commitment to get started on a specific date.

Mark it on your calendar and stick with it.

• Give back everything in your home that does not belong to you. This includes your kids’ trophies, prom dresses, school projects, toys, books, etc. Set a date that they need to be picked up. Otherwise, you must discard them or give them away.

• Throw away broken, stained and chipped items. These cannot be sold or donated.

If you have difficulty determining value, there are specific questions you should ask as you sort: • Do I like this item?

• Do I need this?

• Have I used it in the last six months?

• Can someone else use it?

• Does it work?

And when weighing sentimental value against monetary value, ask: Can this item be replaced? Would I want to replace it?

Pulling says, “If it brings great memories and it can’t be replaced, consider hanging onto it. Don’t ponder the price you paid or the price it’s listed for on eBay or selling sites. Both are irrelevant. The item can only be sold if someone else finds it valuable.”

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TAKE IT, PLEASE Older people can get upset when family members do not want their things. Stephanie Pulling says there are four main reasons why:

#1. They have their own belongings that they have chosen, and they prefer these things.

#2. Younger generations move frequently, so they don’t want clutter or heavy, bulky furniture.

#3.

Younger people are typically more casual entertainers with no use for formal china or silverware.

#4.

CLEAR YOUR SPACE; CLEAR YOUR HEAD

Pulling says that this is a process of “decluttering your head; not just your living space.”

At first, many people can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel (the move being done and the house sold) because they have so much furniture and boxes of unwanted things in their homes. But clearing a small space can oftentimes declutter a person’s mind so that they are no longer paralyzed by the enormity of the process.

“If they know they are downsizing one day and they know they don’t want to move their dining room set, spare bedroom furniture and old couches in the basement, then removing these items as a start to the process is oftentimes what it takes to ‘clear their heads’ of the clutter,” Pulling explains. “The china that was used once a year, the crystal stemware that hasn’t been used in five years and the candlesticks that you never liked, can be sold along with the dining room set and now this room will be cleared.”

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Some older seniors feel easily defeated because they no longer have the physical ability to get into the attic or crawlspace, so they need to wait for someone to help them.

While they may want to call a junk hauler and just be done with it, it’s better if they hire someone to place the items on tables in the garage or a spare room. Then the owner can sort for themselves, maintaining control of the situation, categorizing items appropriately.

Pulling explains, “At Transitional Design, our Senior Move Managers physically assist our clients with the downsizing and decluttering process, but our clients are in charge and are ‘driving the train.’

We are there to guide them and help them make choices based on their needs, lifestyle and desires. No two clients are the same. Every family situation is different and we develop a plan that will work with each person.”

The sorting process isn’t all drudgery, Pulling says. Unexpected finds, surprises and amazing discoveries are commonplace.

Open-concept homes are common and young people typically don’t have a formal dining area (or the dining room is used as a home office or a playroom).

“Jewelry, credit cards, keys, priceless photos and heirloom pieces lost for years are discovered on nearly every estate clean-out that we do, but uncovering a solid gold bar in a dresser drawer and suitcases filled with collector stamps are probably among the most amazing discoveries we have come across.”

Decluttering and downsizing is not a journey for the faint of heart but there can be many joys along the way, as long-forgotten memorabilia stir up stories of yesteryear. Those are the ones to keep.

Estelle Rodis-Brown is a freelance writer from Portage County who also serves as digital/ assistant editor of Boomer magazine. She is committed to lifelong learning, wellness and the pursuit of better living at any age. She can be reached at estelle@ northeastohioboomer.com.

LEGAL

Common

Medicaid Pitfalls And How to Avoid Them

By Laurie G. Steiner

M

edicaid is the main government benefit available to help pay for long-term nursing home stays, which can be as high as $10,000 per month. Without it, many people can’t otherwise pay for care.

There are many pitfalls to avoid when applying for Medicaid benefits; the rules to qualify are harsh.

YOUR HOUSE A home is most peoples’ single biggest asset, and it holds so much meaning and memories. If a single person enters a nursing home with a house but no money, many people don’t know that the new regulations say that the house is a countable asset, and the person won’t qualify for assistance.

Medicaid will be denied unless that person or their power of attorney prepares and files a letter with Medicaid that says he or she intends to return home and asks Medicaid to exempt the house. If that happens, the caseworker can exempt the house and Medicaid can cover nursing home expenses.

The downside of seeking an exemption of the house is that when the owner dies, the State of Ohio will demand the value of that home when it’s sold, with the proceeds paid to the state through Medicaid Estate Recovery, up to the amount of Medicaid benefits paid. The beneficiaries could inherit nothing from the home sale.

As a result, it doesn’t make sense to keep the house until death. It should have been sold when possible, and planning undertaken to protect some of the sale proceeds. No one at the nursing home or at Medicaid is going to tell you how to protect the house value.

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RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS IRAs and other retirement accounts are also complicated assets for Medicaid eligibility. In another recent change to the interpretation of the law, an IRA could be counted as an asset that would disqualify you from Medicaid eligibility. Liquidation of an IRA to spend the money means income taxes must be paid, which diminishes the value.

However, under the new rules, if the IRA is being paid out to you under the Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) rules (now at age 72), Medicaid will not count the IRA as an asset but will count the RMD amount as income. The underlying asset doesn’t count while you are alive, but the income received is part of the monthly income you have to pay to the facility as a part of your “Share of Cost.”

Similar to the house, if the IRA is exempt while you are alive, then at your death, the State of Ohio will demand the value of that account as Medicaid Estate Recovery, up to the amount of benefits paid out. In order to avoid this outcome, there are other planning options with IRA money that are available. Medicaid isn’t easy, and these are just two of the program’s pitfalls. Good estate planning is vital. See a certified elder law attorney for help with Medicaid asset protection planning and application.

Laurie G. Steiner is a member of the law firm of Solomon, Steiner & Peck, Ltd. She is a Certified Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation and the Ohio State Bar Association and an accredited attorney for the preparation, presentation and prosecution of claims for veteran’s benefits before the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Laurie has also been named as a Super Lawyer for 2019 and 2020. She practices in the areas of Elder Law, Medicaid, VA and Disability Planning, and Estate and Trust Planning and Administration.

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Members will receive the November/December issue in the mail. Members must reconfirm membership with each issue for future home delivery of the magazine. Offer valid for Northeast Ohio residents only. Maximum of one mailed copy per household.

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Today, more and more families enjoy the benefits of multigenerational living. According to census data analysis by the Pew Research Center, a record of one-in-five Americans lived in multigenerational homes in 2016. Multi-gen homes, as they are also called, allow two or more adult generations to comfortably live together. This can mean grandparents living with their children and grandchildren, or adult children coming back home to live with their parents.

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Better Living After 50

center with a sink, refrigerator, microwave and cabinet storage. The Extra Suite+ also includes its very own entryway for ultimate privacy.

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September/October 2020

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Let’s Get

ONE-DAY ROAD TRIPS

By Margaret Briller

Outta Here!

I

f staying at home is driving you stir-crazy, it’s time to take a one-day trip to see Ohio’s greatest treasures.

From the gorgeous shores of Lake Erie to the historic Ohio River Valley, there are 27 designated Ohio Byways ready to explore from the COVID-safe confines of your car.

No hotels, no airport lines, no worries.

You’ll find gateways to cultural, historic, natural, scenic and recreational areas in every corner of the state. Make tracks. Hit the road. Vamoose.

Get out of Dodge. It’s time to go — at least for a day.

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Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail

Follow the River

Lake Erie is Ohio’s greatest resource and the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail provides travelers with 293 miles with access to its beaches, state parks, preserves, lighthouses, islands, historical sites, adventure sites, quaint villages and big cities.

The Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail is an America’s Scenic Byway, which weaves along the southern shore of Lake Erie, part of the largest freshwater system in the world. It’s the trail for shopping, fishing, birding, biking, boating, camping, touring and exploring.

From the east, the byway begins at Conneaut and follows the Erie shoreline to Toledo and the Michigan border. From the west, part of the byway winds through Ottawa and Lucas counties, offering visitors views along the Maumee State Scenic River. The byway passes right by Cedar Point, America’s premier coaster park, and ferry rides to Lake Erie’s islands.

Visit: ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/site/tourism/ resources/scenic-byways. Also, check out the Lake Erie Ohio Coastal Trail app.

The history-rich Ohio River Scenic Byway meanders along the banks of the Ohio River, hugging its shoreline and offering majestic views. The history of this “Beautiful River” is found both in rural landscapes and quaint river communities.

It marked the boundary between the North and South during the slavery era and was the gateway to freedom for many.

From East Liverpool on the eastern edge of the state, the Ohio River Scenic Byway meanders along the Ohio River for 462 miles through 14 counties via State Route 7 south to U.S. Route 52 west to Cincinnati. There are many museums and historic sites that can be explored (check ahead for hours).

The Byway runs through Wayne National Forest and Shawnee National Forest, as well as several state parks, all of which offer trails, biking, water activities, camping, picnicking and adventure courses.

Better Living After 50

The Netcher Road Covered Bridge is a recent addition to Ashtabula County, constructed in 1998 over Mill Creek in Jefferson Township.

“In southern Ohio, Portsmouth boasts massive floodwall murals by famed artist Robert Dafford,” says Judy Bratten, assistant director of Steubenville Visitor Center. “And in Steubenville, you will find another self-guided tour of 25 larger-than-life works of art in ‘The City of Murals.’”

Most of the Ohio River Scenic Byway runs through Appalachia and travelers can explore its unique foods, wineries, breweries and crafts. Visit: ohioriverscenicbyway.org.

Bridges of Ashtabula County A covered bridge is a trip back in time when wood was plentiful and a bridge was the fastest way over the river.

As Ohio’s Covered Bridge Capital, Ashtabula County is home to 19 covered bridges, with 17 of them still open for vehicle traffic. The majority are in farmland and woodland, making fall a popular time to see colorful leaves as a backdrop for these picturesque bridges. Two

bridges in Ashtabula County are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The earliest documented covered bridge structures remaining in the area date back to 1867 in Mechanicsville and Windsor Mills, and 1868 for Root, Middle and Harpersfield bridges. The shortest drive-through bridge is Liberty Street Bridge at 18 feet. Riverview Covered Bridge carries only pedestrian traffic and mirrors the Pratt arch design of the 613-foot Smolen-Gulf Bridge, the longest covered bridge in the U.S. Visit: visitashtabulacounty.com.

Margaret Briller is a freelance writer in Northeast Ohio and a road-trip warrior.

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CHANGING THE AGING GAME

By Marie Elium Photography by Kim Stahnke

Earlier this year, we put our heads together to come up with a way to celebrate Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond’s fifth anniversary. We decided that the best way to mark this milestone would be to recognize people who are doing innovative and inspiring work for those 50 and older. We asked for nominations from the community and were impressed with your responses. A lot of people are doing great work; we’ve known that for five years. You thought so, too.

D

“

In the next few pages, we want to tell you about — and celebrate— three extraordinary people who represent the best of our region’s innovators. They’re our Boomer Impact Awards honorees.

Each unique, yet working toward the same goal, these women have made a transformative difference in the lives of our region’s older adults.

When the pandemic hit, we had already decided to mark our fifth anniversary by using our magazine to honor people who honor aging

Meet Our Winners

o you want to see my garden?”

I catch up with Kathryn Eyring as she nimbly steps through the raised beds in her backyard, a block from Lake Erie.

The garden, like Eyring, has a lot going on: tomatoes, beets, cucumbers and more. The tour takes time because Eyring likes explaining what she planted and why. She’s a natural teacher and skilled cheerleader. Right now, she’s promoting the season’s lush harvest.

When we sit down in her screened porch to talk about her “Aging Gracefully TV” and how she ended up as a Boomer Impact honoree, Eyring stops the conversation.

“Do you like pickles? I made pickles. My first time,” she says.

Eyring goes inside and brings out a jar of pickles and plops one onto a plate in front of me.

“Wait. Do you mind if I record this for my website? I’m recording peoples’ reactions.”

The pickles were delicious. You get the idea that there’s not much Eyring does that she doesn’t do well. And, as promised, she later sent me a link to her pickle-tasting segment, my reaction edited in.

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well. These honorees prove that creative programs coupled with practical solutions can overcome most barriers to healthy aging (even social distancing). We’re in this together, and for that, we can thank Kathryn Eyring, Tracey Mason and Karen Talbott.

Thanks to our readers, advertisers, advisory board members and everyone else who has supported us in the last five years. We plan to stick around for another 50 ; ) — Brad Mitchell, Publisher

A POSTER CHILD FOR HEALTHY AGING Eyring uses that same energy and enthusiasm to promote healthy aging through her “Aging Gracefully TV,” an interactive online community for people 50+. Her series of webcasts, classes and public-access TV shows are Eyring-conceived, produced and executed. Because of COVID-19, she’s been recording many from the basement of her Avon Lake home.

As is true for many people, but especially Eyring, the pandemic has been an uneasy fit. “It’s not that I don’t take this seriously. I cannot live in fear. You cannot think rationally if you live in fear.”

The mother of three grown sons and a grandmother to four, Eyring’s positive nature and silliness comes through with her online videos. She’s passionate about promoting healthy aging and looks the part, crediting yoga and healthy eating — again, the garden and other habits she promotes through her website, aginggracefully.tv.

Eyring, 61, is such a dynamic, powerful and youthful-looking advocate for aging, it’s hard to think of her growing older. She embraces what’s ahead with peaceful, positive confidence.

Her mother died at age 45 in a car accident. Eyring considers every day a gift.

Nominated by Glenn M. Blair, retired business executive, Standard Oil (Ohio) and Baldwin-Wallace University:

“As a yoga instructor, health coach and functional aging specialist, Kathryn guides seniors in strength and fall protection. Appreciation and respect for older adults is her message as she challenges cultural misconceptions of what aging looks like as well as the diminished value of aging adults in a modern, fast-paced community. Kathryn encourages people to embrace maturity of life with enthusiasm.

She believes long lives are blessings to be shared and celebrated. Her motto is, “Live a long, healthy life without regrets.”

Meet

Kathryn Eyring, Creator, Host & Producer of Aging Gracefully TV

Why focus her career on serving people 50 and older?

“I’ve always really loved older adults and I wonder if it’s because I had such an excellent relationship with my grandparents. I adored my grandparents,” she says.

Children and teens are the focus of many community programs. Providing internet access during the pandemic is an example that comes to mind, she adds. But if older adults don’t have the internet, they can become isolated. “If we’re going to give to the kids, please, I want to give to the seniors. I think the focus so often is just on younger people.”

Many factors keep older adults from being fully integrated into their communities.

“There is an assumption, for one thing, that they are not tech-savvy. But I think, given the opportunity, so many of them are whizzes with the stuff. When all of my classes went to Zoom, I helped everyone who needed it. But 75 percent of them didn’t need any help. They were able to figure it out.”

Eyring has learned a lot from her older friends and students.

“Seniors have told me, you have to make sure you’re always feeding young people into your social funnel. You’re a scientist, you’re a principal, you’re a doctor. When you speak with them, you learn so much is in the past.

That’s when I started thinking, ‘these people are amazing.’ They didn’t just stop having some quality life when they retired. These are people who just keep it going.”

She continues, “I started the TV show when a woman came out to my class in Bay Village and she was 85 at the time. She told me she teaches Tai Chi two to three times a week and had been doing it for 20 years.

And she played the cello and she just started it when she was 80. She was my very first guest on the TV show. And I thought, ‘You’re just amazing. How do you do this? Tell me more.’”

“I want to be like this until I drop at 104,” Eyring says. “I actually picked yoga as my late-career choice because I’m thinking it’s something I can grow with and nobody can say you’re too old to teach yoga. Only I can say that.”

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Meet

Tracey Mason, Administrator of Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services

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Better Living After 50

Nominated by Denise Rucker-Burton, program administrator, Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services:

“Tracey has a deep passion for serving older adults...overseeing a $22 million budget that provides services to 30,000 older adults. Tracey rebuilt DSAS’ technology infrastructure to improve health outcomes and service coordination for older adults, resulting in a $1 million Electronic Health Record system.”

C

onversations through a computer video feed are clumsy affairs. Necessary because of the pandemic, it can be difficult to get to know someone when you’re relying on an internet connection and a computer screen… unless you’re talking to Tracey Mason.

This is a person whose particular background and irresistible enthusiasm for helping older adults translates through computer lines and linkups. Mason, 52, not only likes what she does, she knows why she does it.

FAMILY TIES, FAMILY VALUES Managing a sprawling and complicated government agency is occasionally frustrating and certainly cumbersome. It’s tough to balance budgets, client needs and public officials’ demands. In some ways, Mason was born for the job.

“My mom and I are 14 years apart and, because we were so close in age, my grandmother had a firm hand in my upbringing,” she recounts. “She was a social worker herself, so I remember as a kid, volunteering in the food pantry with my grandmother. I remember going to civil rights marches with my grandmother. I remember packing Christmas toys for other families with my grandmother. And so, throughout my life, I have had women – from my grandmother to my mom to my aunt – who are deeply dedicated to social services. So that has been instilled in my heart.”

After retirement, Mason’s late grandmother volunteered at the Hitchcock Center for Women. Mason spent Tuesdays and Thursdays enjoying time with other older adults at the St. Martin de Porres Family Center. Her mother, Ruth Williams, is executive director of the Lorain Urban Minority Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Outreach Program.

“This work is very personal for me, this is not about professional change; it’s about personal growth and how I can continue to contribute to those marginalized families.”

As is true with nearly everything today, the pandemic has hit particularly hard among the people Mason is responsible for helping.

“The biggest impact that we have experienced is not being able to have that face-to-face contact with many of the clients that we service, which we all know, was disproportionately impacting seniors and our older adults.

So we had to also balance safety of the staff as well as meeting the clients’ needs,” she says.

“We’ve not had that face-to-face contact and many of our seniors looked forward to seeing their social worker show up for the day. We had to quickly change and began to make wellness calls so all of our face-to-face contact that we were having with our clients became daily check-ins.”

Earlier in her career, Mason was Vice-President of Partnerships and Client Services with the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. She understands the impact on a family when they can’t afford food and how a pandemic amps up the need among older adults.

“One of the things we noticed is, food insecurity was on the rise. And we were fortunate to have an onsite food pantry so we were able to take out groceries to our clients. We were able to deliver groceries, place them on the front porch and let the client know that we were there. We were able to meet the need, from a distance, and that has had an impact on everyone,” Mason shares.

Mason says access to information is the biggest barrier older adults face: who to call for what you need.

“I’m deeply committed to making sure there’s a live voice responding on the phone. Every intake system I’ve ever been a part of, my first priority is that there’s always a live voice to talk to. We also know, a lot of times when you’re on the phone with an older adult, you don’t know who else they may or may not have talked to that day or the day before, because social isolation is real.”

Raising public awareness is another area Mason embraces.

“The greatest misconception is that all of their needs are provided and are taken care of by Medicaid or Medicare and that they have no need for additional services or that their family has the capacity to take care of their parent or grandparent,” Mason says.

She continues, “In the work that I do, I often say we have to build a system for us, for everyone. This is not about my grandmother and my mom. I have an opportunity to help build a system that will help the next generation of older adults… and what resources can be shaped now so we can build communities that are supportive of older adults.”

More than most people, Mason is in a unique position to reflect on what her life may look like in the next few decades.

“I look forward to getting older. I look forward to becoming a grandmother, I look forward to just enjoying my life and being able to give back in other ways and retiring with my husband,” she says.

“Is it scary sometimes to think about those resources you’re going to need some time, too? Absolutely it is, and so I’m often thinking about what I can do today, whether it’s for Tracey Mason or anyone else, so that at a minimum, I’ll know who to call.”

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Meet

Karen Talbott, President of Child Guidance & Family Solutions, former Facilitator of Leadership Akron NEXT

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Better Living After 50

Nominated by Susan Kosco, Director of Community Engagement, Leadership Akron:

“Leadership Akron NEXT is a two-month program designed for community-driven individuals who are approaching, experiencing or mastering retirement. NEXT offers the opportunity for experienced leaders to define their next chapter of community involvement and impact while engaging with other likeminded individuals. Serving as the facilitator from 2012-2019, Karen Talbott has been the heart and soul of NEXT. Without her, there would be no NEXT. She has made the program possible in so many ways.”

A

t 73, Karen Talbott is at an age when most people are either retired or are thinking about retiring. Instead, she’s spent much of this past decade helping others choose their next place, their next role in the greater-Akron community.

Her day job is leading a medical specialty practice that provides emotional, mental and behavioral health services and programs to children, adolescents and adults. Although she’s spent most of her career as an administrator for health care organizations, Talbott’s experience with Leadership Akron has been of particular interest, as has its offshoot, NEXT. She was in one of Leadership Akron’s early classes, became a board member, then started working with NEXT in 2011.

Leadership Akron, like similar programs throughout the country, forms a class of area leaders each year and does a deep dive into the community, with speakers and tours focusing on topics ranging from education to government, businesses and social services, recreation, the arts and more.

Talbott speaks in a firm, confident voice that projects her unabashed commitment to NEXT and the importance of people finding a place in their community. We met for the first time via videoconferencing, where her enthusiasm came through, loud and clear.

DISCOVERING WHERE YOU LIVE The goal of NEXT isn’t necessarily to match older adults with volunteer opportunities, although that’s a frequent outcome. Instead, the two-month program – similar to Leadership Akron – illuminates the agencies, businesses and organizations that make up the fabric of the community.

“Leadership Akron opens your eyes to all these things that you did not have a clue about. And I said, that makes sense to do for an older population, as well. Either they’ve already retired or they’re soon to retire or [become] semi-retired,” Talbott explains.

“We don’t say that when you become a member of the program that you need to volunteer with

something. All we’re doing is laying the table for you.

If something looks inviting, then sample it,” she says.

“We’re matchmakers, in a way. We assume that people know about the civic theater and other landmarks in the community, and they’re wonderful, but there are also other hidden gems in the community that they don’t know about.”

Summit Artspace is one example. “There’s a gallery there, there are young entrepreneurs there, there are old entrepreneurs there. We’ve had folks who’ve connected with them and helped with business plans,” she says.

Isn’t it true that if someone hears about NEXT, then they’re likely to already know about a lot of volunteer opportunities in the Akron area?

Sometimes, Talbott says.

“You also have some people who live in Akron but worked in Cleveland. Or somebody might have been involved with the arts during their professional life (but) they never got exposed to healthcare, they never got exposed to education. They never got engaged with parks and the environment. We would take them places and they’d say, ‘Wow, I never knew this existed. Isn’t this great? Tell me more.’”

“If they hear, for example, there’s food insufficiency and you take them somewhere and they see people in line to get food, there’s an imprint on them and they see that this is real; it’s not something they read about in the paper or someone told me about it. They’ve seen it firsthand and you’d be amazed what an impact that has on people,” she adds.

As someone who likes to plan, it makes sense that Talbott was responsible for helping others do the same as they transition out of full-time employment.

“People say, “On X day I’m going to retire. But they don’t think about the day after that: what’s in store for me, what am I supposed to do? Talbott says. “You can be retired but you’re still in charge of your own destiny.”

Marie Elium is the editor of Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond. Send your favorite tips for aging well to marie@northeastohioboomer.com.

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Congratulations!

K A R E N

T A L B O T T

Boomer Impact Award Recipient

“…a dedicated, effective leader with a

compassionate heart!”

“…the perfect role model to lead the NEXT Classes"

“… an inspiration to NEXT Class members as they Karen Talbott was nominated for her

explore new opportunities to make a difference by extensive work on behalf of the

serving others."

Leadership Akron NEXT program.

“Karen kept [the program] on track...every minute of NEXT is the opportunity for community-

every class day." minded individuals who are approaching,

experiencing or mastering retirement to

“… very well deserved!!” reimagine their next chapter of

community involvement and impact.

To learn more about Leadership Akron NEXT, please contact Leadership Akron at

330-436-5291 or visit our website at LeadershipAkron.org/NEXT.

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MUSEUM CHECK-IN

NEW EXHIBITS, HOURS & ACCOMMODATIONS

By Breanna Mona

Are you there, art and culture? It’s us, former museum-goers.

It’s been a while… With rules changing what feels like daily, you may be wondering which of your favorite Northeast Ohio museums are open, what new hours and procedures are safely in place and, of course, if there are any new exhibits you should know about. Don’t worry, we did the digging for you. Keep reading to learn how to get reacquainted with your old favorites or give that NEO staple an overdue visit.

Exhibit: Ultimate Dinosaurs Meet the elusive dinos from the Southern Hemisphere.

These bad boys evolved separately from the dinosaurs we’re already familiar with. You’ll get to mingle with the likes of the “Giganotosaurus” — T. Rex’s hefty cousin. This exhibit features real fossils, full-size reconstructions and augmented reality. Now through Oct. 4.

Museum Hours Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Friday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

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Accommodations Staff and guests are temperature-checked before entering the museum and are required to wear a mask.

Single-flow traffic is now implemented throughout the building, with staff helping visitors keep a safe social distance. For now, the Smead Discovery Center, Shafran Planetarium and high-touch exhibits are closed. Walk-up admissions and walk-up member visits are not accepted at this time.

Details: cmnh.org, 216231-4600, 1 Wade Oval Dr, Cleveland

THE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART CLEVELAND At this time, the museum has closed its doors to keep visitors safe. The staff has been busy digging through archives, however, and are examining new perspectives on current shows.

MOCA throws an occasional virtual watch party and continues to share what local art lovers are creating from home. Check out their Facebook and Instagram pages to join the conversation and stay tuned about re-opening.

Details: mocacleveland.org, 216-42-8671 11400 Euclid Ave, Cleveland

THE CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER Exhibits Stokes: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future Originally opened at the History Center in 2017, this exhibit honors Mayor Carl B. Stokes and his brother, Congressman Louis Stokes, and has been developed as an extension of their legacy of leadership, advocacy and action.

Electric, Steam or Gasoline | The Past, Present & Future of Alternative Power Modern automobiles like the Chrysler Portal concept are contrasted against its initial 1900 counterpart (back when electric cars were in their glory days). Discover

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CLEVELAND HISTORY CENTER

CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

how companies like Chrysler and Tesla are utilizing tools from history to rework the future.

Hours Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. with the first hour reserved daily for at-risk visitors.

Advance timed tickets are required for all guests with the final ticket sold at 3 p.m.

Tickets are available at cletix. com.

Accommodations Increased sanitization, enhanced cleaning protocols, physical distancing signage, touch-free experiences and timed-entry have all been put in place.

Not ready to visit? History at Home is a digital resource page available on the Cleveland History Center website — and it’s brimming with cool material to sift through from your sofa.

Details: wrhs.org, 216-7215722, 10825 East Blvd, Cleveland

THE ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART

Exhibit: It’s Been Said All Along: Voices of Rage, Hope & Empowerment This powerful new exhibit showcases how musical artists have long used the power of rock and roll to address racism. This exhibit takes you through captivating musical moments of rage, hope and empowerment through the lenses of influential African American photographers Chuck Stewart, Bruce Talamon, Bob Douglas and more.

Some highlights include political anthems like Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power,” N.W.A.’s jacket echoing the significance of their single “F*ck tha Police,” Aretha Franklin’s Valentino dress worn during her first appearance at Radio City Music Hall, where she belted out “Respect” — which went on to be hailed as an anthem for both the Civil Rights and Women’s Liberation Movements.

Cle art museum square Untitled (Jua Kali Series), 2014. Tahir Carl Karmali (Kenyan, b.

1987). Archival pigment print; 45.7 x 30.5 cm. © Tahir Carl KarmaliTahirCarlKarmali_female_S

Hours Daily: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Early access is available at 10 a.m. for teachers (Mondays), vulnerable fans (Tuesdays), Rock Hall Members (Saturdays) and healthcare workers (Sundays).

Accommodations Hand sanitizing stations are located throughout the building, masks are required of both staff and guests as well as temperature checks before entering. Tickets must be purchased in advance online, with limited capacity ticketing structure to ensure reduced volume, safe social distancing.

Details: rockhall.com, 216781-7625, 1100 Rock and Roll Blvd, Cleveland THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART Exhibits PROOF: Photography in the Era of the Contact Sheet This free special exhibit has been extended through Nov. 29. Featuring over 180 works, this collection includes pieces from Clevelanders Mark Schwartz and Bettina Katz and showcases a wide range of photographers from the second half of the 20th Century. You’ll see key works by guiding figures like Diane Arbus, Richard Avedon, Harry Benson, Harry Callahan, Robert Frank, Philippe Halsman, Irving Penn and Albert Watson, as well as Schwartz’s friends Arnold Newman, Larry Fink and Emmet Gowin.

Gold Needles: Embroidery Arts from Korea This exhibit honors anonymous female artists and their imaginative creations that prevailed over the conventions of the patriarchal Joseon society.

Through spectacular examples of embroidery and patchwork, this exhibit delves into Korean embroidered artwork as tools of empowerment to conquer social and cultural constraints.

Now through Oc. 25

to connect remotely while social distancing protocols stay in place. Home Is Where the Art Is offers plenty of online resources and activities so you can dig into the museum’s collections virtually. Check out the special virtual events and programs as well.

Second Careers: Two Tributaries in African Art

Details: clevelandart.org, 216-421-7350, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland

This exhibit examines the links between historical African art and contemporary practices through the museum’s impressive African collection and loaned works — objects from nine cultures in Central and West Africa like male and female masks and figures, a masquerade costume, a hunter’s tunic and a prestigious throne.

These objects are set against large-scale installations, photographs, sculptures by six prominent contemporary African artists.

AKRON ART MUSEUM Exhibits Akron Art Museum gathers work from 1850 to today.

The collection has over 6,000 objects and features fascinating works by a slew of artists spanning across the globe, including glass, sculpture, photography, paintings, digital art and more.

The Akron Art Museum’s modern and contemporary galleries are now open, but there are no special exhibits for now.

Nov. 1, 2020 – March 14, 2021 Hours Tuesday, Sunday: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. are reserved for seniors and immunocompromised individuals.

Hours Thursday: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Friday – Saturday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Accommodations You must register for a timed ticket before visiting. If you don’t have internet access, you can call 330-376-9186 and select option “0.” No need to print out tickets or show a QR code when arriving, just give the front desk your name.

Tuesday – Sunday: 10 a.m.

– 5 p.m.

Accommodations Temperature checks and face coverings are required.

Enhanced daily cleaning protocols and antibacterial solution stations are safely in place, as well. Tickets must be reserved and will be scanned at the door (there are no on-site ticket sales at this time). Tickets for the parking garage can be purchased in advance during the time of ticket purchase, or guests can pay the parking garage fee on-site using a credit card.

Guests must now arrive through the main door on High Street and exit through terrace doors. The staff is masked and guests are asked to mask up, as well.

Hand sanitizer is available throughout the building and galleries have been structured to create a onedirectional flow through the spaces. At this time, there is no food, drink or coat check available and the museum is currently cash-free, as well.

The café, restaurant, museum store and coat check are closed for now.

Home Is Where the Art Is: For those who want to soak in artwork from home, CMA is providing digital resources that allow guests

Details: akronartmuseum. org, 330-376-9185, 1 S. High St, Akron

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Exhibit: Body Worlds Rx This new anatomical exhibit explores the human body and the staggering effects of disease. The exhibit’s specimens compare healthy organs to diseased organs, peeling back the curtain of disease’s physical toll on the human body.

When: Now through Jan. 3, 2021 Science Center Hours Tuesday – Saturday: 10 a.m.

– 5 p.m. Sunday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Accommodations Handwashing and sanitizing stations are located throughout the building and certain exhibits have been altered to reduce touch.

Air circulation and filtering for the HVAC system have been increased, regularly swapping inside air with outside air. Along with

reduced guest capacity and a new requirement for buying tickets in advance online, all guests and staff are temperature-checked and required to wear masks. Increased cleaning procedures also take place throughout the day and after closing — including “fogging style” sanitizing treatments.

Learning Lab Program: This new program supports working parents who need safe daytime childcare for their school-age children as school districts adapt to the pandemic. Parents can register children for as many days of the week as needed, and children are able to do virtual schooling from the Science Center in a structured, safe environment, where social distancing, masks and handwashing are required.

Details: greatscience.com, 216-694-2000, 601 Erieside Avenue, Cleveland

MALTZ MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE Exhibits The museum was saddened to shut their doors from March through mid-August but is pleased to announce that the digital programming that was put in place postpandemic will continue for guests who would like to visit from home. The re-opening of the museum in late August did not include a special exhibit, but the addition of an exhibit called “The Interactive Biography of Stanley Bernath” is underway.

Hours Sunday, Monday, Tuesday 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m.: The Interactive Biography of Stanley Bernath + Self-guided Museum Tour 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m.: Selfguided Museum Tour Only 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Dropin shopping hours at the Museum Store (no reservation required) Accommodations Masks are required for entry and temperature checks along with health screening questions take place at the door. Signage throughout the building reminds visitors to keep social distancing in place. Tickets must be purchased in advance online or by calling.

Details: maltzmuseum. org, 216-593-0575, 2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood

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committed to educating the public about the history of military aviation. The museum is home to exciting educational displays and a collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits and historical archives in its own library.

Hours Tuesday: open only for seniors (60 and over) and those with documented health or immune system issues as well as their immediate family members.

Thursday – Saturday: 10 a.m.

– 2 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Accommodations Masks are required and may be purchased in the gift shop for $1. Signs and arrows have been placed around the museum to direct safe traffic flow. Interactive displays are closed for now and many displays are now behind barriers to prevent touch.

Tours of the restoration area are on hold for now.

Guests are encouraged to call before visiting to ensure hours have not been changed due to COVID-19 updates. A virtual tour of the museum is available on their website, if you’d rather visit from home.

Details: mapsairmuseum. org, 330-896-6332, 2260 International Pkwy, North Canton

MAPS AIR MUSEUM

BASEBALL HERITAGE MUSEUM

Exhibits This aviation museum is operated by the Military Aviation Preservation Society; an all-volunteer, non-profit organization

Exhibits Check out the new 1920s World Series installation that highlights the Cleveland Baseball Club’s quest for a championship. The museum

PHOTO HOWARD AGRIESTI: THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER

Thimbles, early 1900s. Korea, Joseon dynasty (1392−1910).

Silk and cotton, various weaves; each_ 1.5 x 2.5 x 2.8 cm.

Seoul Museum of Craft Art, 2018-D-Huh-3025−56.

is also celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the conception of the Negro Leagues.

Ask about their growing digital programs, too. The museum has implemented a digital learning outreach program that focuses on baseball skills.

Hours Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and by appointment

Accommodations Continuous sanitization practices and hand-sanitizing stations have been added.

Temperature checks for staff, social distancing, and masks are all required. The first hour of the day is devoted to the high-risk population.

Admission is free and reservations are not required.

Details: baseballheritagemuseum. org, 216-789-1083, 6601 Lexington Ave, Cleveland

MUSEUM OF AMERICAN PORCELAIN ART

Hours Small tours can be scheduled by appointment only until public hours resume in the future.

Exhibits Thought to be the first museum of its kind, this new, free museum inhabits a 26room mansion built in 1928 — a designated Ohio Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s devoted to preserving and promoting the American strand of the porcelain arts, an art form which began in Han Dynasty China and boomed in continental Europe and Great Britain.

Accommodations Masks are required and groups are limited to 10 guests per appointment/ tour.

Details: americanporcelainart.org, 216-223-7024, 645 Mayfield Rd, South Euclid PSST… While we are doing our best to ensure information is up-to-date, there is a chance some exhibits or hours may change due to precautions concerning the coronavirus.

We recommend checking with museums shortly before making your visit.

Boehm Collection Check out the special section of the museum that showcases the molds that Boehm used to create his work and discover how the more complex pieces needed dozens of individual molds.

Breanna Mona is an entertainment and lifestyle writer whose favorite museum is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Long live rock!

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Sponsored Content

Virtual Volunteering & More

S

Yes, You’re Still Needed Presented by Greater Cleveland Volunteers

ince the unsettling times from last spring to today, we all have adjusted our lives and will continue to do so. The changes have affected how we shop for essentials, connect with family and friends and manage business procedures and operations.

Nonprofit agencies have made adjustments, too. Many staff members are working virtually and nonprofits have had to suspend or alter volunteer duties while still fulfilling their mission and meeting client needs.

For example, nonprofit agencies that provide food distribution still rely on people to help meet this critical need. Area nonprofit agencies have reached out to volunteers to make wellness phone calls to the health-comprised or older adults. Volunteers also ensure that food and essentials are delivered to clients’ homes.

Adult living and health care facilities rely on volunteers to send “thinking of you” cards or letters of encouragement to residents. On the business side, nonprofit agencies use volunteers (with proper COVID-19 safety measures) to help with office mailings and other administrative tasks.

If the pandemic has affected the agency where you volunteer, consider reaching out to other nonprofits to discover what support they need.

Greater Cleveland Volunteers partners with 100+ nonprofit agencies in Cuyahoga County, connecting people to meet those requests. If inperson volunteering is a concern, consider a virtual opportunity.

To learn more, go to greaterclevelandvolunteers.org.

Sponsored Content

Coping with the Pandemic

The Need to Honor Loved Ones Remains Presented By Hospice of the Western Reserve

S

ince the beginning of the healthcare crisis, life has changed dramatically.

For those who are grieving, these changes can be especially overwhelming. Not being able to hold a funeral or celebration of life causes anxiety, frustration, sadness and isolation in a world of unfinished business. Because there is no definitive end-date to grief, the landscapes of our lives are forever altered, no matter the circumstances.

When we’re not able to begin the grief process as our customs and beliefs have taught us, how do we honor loved ones? Here are a few ideas to consider: Plan a virtual memorial with those closest to you. You can do this via Zoom, Microsoft

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Better Living After 50

Office Teams, Facetime or other technology platforms. Share favorite memories and photos of your loved one on the web.

Create a memorial garden.

Consider choosing perennials, bulbs or flowering trees or shrubs that will bloom year after year. The process of designing and digging

the garden and selecting the plants can be as therapeutic as enjoying the finished garden. Create or purchase a special piece of art to place in the garden to remind yourself of your loved one.

Write daily to your special person in a journal. The journal need not be seen by anyone but you. This spiritual connection can provide a healing way to release your deepest thoughts and feelings.

Regardless of how you choose to honor your loved one, you are not alone. Western Reserve Grief Services provides a variety of support options, including a private Facebook group, virtual support groups and other online resources.

For more information, call 800707-8922 or go to hospicewr.org/ griefandloss.

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Boomer B´ West

See You in the Spring

B

oomer Bash West 2020 will be moving to the Spring of 2021. Since we are concerned about the safety for all involved during these trying times, we are looking to move this event to early next year.

We encourage you to keep up with the latest Bash developments at northeastohioboomer.com.

In the meantime, we're highlighting our Bash sponsors on the following pages and have included a Bash vendors' guide and a list of our current advertisers on page 51.

Boomer Bash West 2021 will include a mix of entertainment, education, raffle/giveaways, complimentary small bites, happy-hour priced cocktails, photo booth fun and much more. It is truly Celebrating Better Living After 50.

We look forward to seeing you then!

SPONSOR PROFILE

THE NORMANDY SENIOR LIVING Diverse Amenities, Thoughtful Support Presented by The Normandy Senior Living

GET TO KNOW US The Normandy is a Senior Living Campus that combines top-notch amenities and a connected community lifestyle to provide a continuum of care for every stage of senior life.

We offer three specialized facilities all on one convenient campus. Family-owned and operated for almost 35 years, we take pride in our caring staff, diverse amenities and thoughtful support services.

Our beautiful and calming campus stretches over 30 acres along the shores of Lake Erie in Rocky River.

WHAT WE DO The Normandy Senior Living offers a continuum of care for residents to age in place. Our campus services range from independent living to s • Breakwater Independent Living Apartments Eliminate home maintenance, transportation and cooking concerns while placing a premium on unique and relevant social activities that build community We have newly renovated spacious modern apartments with one, two, and three bedroom accommodations.

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Better Living After 50

• Lakeside Assisted Living Designed for residents to live independently with easy access to daily care and assistance under the supervision of a Medical Director and a team of qualified nurses Perks include medication management, assistance with dressing, and bathing and continence care. Lakeside also includes dedicated memory care at Edie’s Place, featuring 40 unique suites designed to support those coping with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

• The Normandy Care Center A leading rehabilitation and skilled nursing facility focusing on supporting cognitive, emotional, physical and social needs Our Care Center houses 150-beds, is licensed for skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and memory care and is under the supervision of a Medical Director.

We offer compassionate nursing home living and around-theclock medical and personal care services.

OUR STORY Constructed in 1967 by Neville A. Chandler, he looked to evoke the romantic charms of the French countryside with distinctive landscaping and unique

architecture. Current owners, the Orlean Family, joined The Normandy in 1986. They added the Care Center in 1991 and completed an atrium project in 1994 to connect buildings A and B, renovated Breakwater Apartments and added Lakeside Assisted Living in 2018.

Our campus features chefdriven meals, a partnership with the library system, and new spaces for socialization and fitness.

GET STARTED We are redefining senior living, focused on ensuring our protocols are keeping residents, staff and families as safe as we possibly can while still maintaining an active social calendar! We have rapidly advanced our cleaning procedures while continuing to make important changes and have maintained agility to respond to this environment.

We’re confident you and your family will love calling The Normandy home.

Schedule a tour by calling 440-333-5401 and learn more about our campus at thenormandy.com.

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

Our Story

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

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

What We Do

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

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Better Living After 50

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

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

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

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

ENTERTAINMENT/ACTIVITIES Aging Gracefully aginggracefully.tv Historic Sauder Village saudervillage.org 800-590-9755 Summit Metro Parks summitmetroparks.org 330-867-5511 Westlake Porter Public Library westlakelibrary.org 440-871-2600

Vendor Showcase KAZ Company medicareplansneo.com 216-901-9300

Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center chsc.org 216-231-8787

UnitedHealthcare Medicare unitedhealthcare.com 800-468-5001

Digestive Disease Consultants mygidocs.com 877-891-3636

LIVING OPTIONS/FACILITIES

Hospice of the Western Reserve hospicewr.org 216-545-5995 Mandel Jewish Community Center (JCC) mandeljcc.org 216-831-0700 Medicina Medical CPAP EquipSource, Inc cpap411.com 440-625-066 Miracle Ear North Olmsted miracle-ear.com 440-979-1863 Regen Orthopedic regenorthopedics.com 844-786-2355 Xcell Medical Group xcellmedicalgroup.com 440-324-0092

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICE Altimate Care 440-565-7818

HOME IMPROVEMENT All American Gutter Protection allamericangutterprotection.com 330-268-7270 ShelfGenie of Cleveland shelfgenie.com/cleveland 330-827-2033 SureRoof Commercial Contractors sureroofinc.com 330-310-9502

INSURANCE Bright Health brighthealthplan.com 844-667-5502 Humana -Shannon Mapes humana.com/smapes 330-734-9581

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Mutsko Insurance Services mutskoinsurance.com 440-255-5700 UnitedHealthcare myuhcagent.com/charles.jennings 216-470-7849

Dr. Steven Marsh, DDS clevelandsmiles.com 440-461-1003

Lorain County Metro Parks loraincountymetroparks.com 800-526-7275

Medical Mutual of Ohio medmutual.com 877-583-3166

HEALTH & WELLNESS

PARKS & RECREATION City of Westlake/Westlake Rec Center cityofwestlake.org 440-808-5700

Solomon, Steiner & Peck ssandplaw.com 216-765-0123 As You Wish Travel asyouwishluxurytravel.com 440-965-6868 Cleveland Better Business Bureau bbb.org/cleveland 216-241-7678

Arden Courts Memory Care Communities arden-courts.com 216-385-1610 Gross Residential Property Management grossresidential.com 440-237-1681 K. Hovnanian Homes khov.com/ohio 888-546-8466

Hickman & Lowder Co. hickman-lowder.com 440-323-1111 Joseph L. Motta Co., LPA josephlmotta.com 440-930-2826 Keller Williams Elevate realestateagent.kw.com 440-552-7842 Metro by T-Mobile metrobyt-mobile.com 888-863-8768

McGregor mcgregoramasa.org 216-851-8200 Menorah Park Center For Senior Living menorahpark.org 216-831-6500 Ohman Family Living ohmanfamilyliving.com 440-214-2259 Rae Ann Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation rae-ann.net 440-835-3004 Richmond Heights Place richmondheightsplace.com 216-291-8585

Ohio SMP at Pro Seniors proseniors.org 513-458-5515 Ohio Tuition Trust Authority collegeadvantage.com 800-233-6734 Unity Catholic Federal Credit Union unitycatholiccu.org 440-886-2558

SERVICE AGENCIES Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging benrose.org 216-791-8000

Rose Senior Living Beachwood beachwood.roseseniorliving.com 877-222-9724

Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services hhs.cuyahogacounty.us/divisions/detail/ children-and-family-services 216-881-5554

Sprenger Health Care Systems sprengerhealthcare.com 440-989-5200 The Belvedere of Westlake Assisted Living rae-ann.net 440-835-4000

Encore Cleveland greaterclevelandvolunteers.org/programs/ encore_cleveland.php 216-391-9032

The Enclave of Newell Creek enclaveofnewellcreek.com 888-693-8046

Forbes House forbeshouse.org 440-357-1018

The Normandy Senior Living Campus thenormandy.com 440-226-9630

Greater Cleveland Volunteers greaterclevelandvolunteers.org 216-391-9500

The Village at Marymount villageatmarymount.org 216-332-1100

Leadership Akron leadershipakron.org 330-436-5291

Wesleyan Village Senior Living villageliving.org 440-284-9000

Summit DD summitdd.org 330-634-8000

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Medications that cause ‘brain fog’ have been well described in AGE WISE the media. Benzodiazepine anxiety medications, several over-thecounter sleep medications, and pharmacotherapy for urinary incontinence can lead to memory impairment and confusion.

Medications then are often part of the problem, not the solution.

Another area of concern is the 40 million family caregivers who take care of loved ones with dementia. Caregiving can take a toll on the medical health of caregivers themselves. A good way to plan for what help may be needed is to map out the stages of dementia: • The level of independence with activities of daily living (eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, WAYS TO PROMOTE continence) BRAIN HEALTH • The level of independence • Aerobic exercise (regularity, MYTHS, MARVELS AND with instrumental not intensity, is most PRESERVING MENTAL SHARPNESS important) activities of daily

By Dr. Ardeshir Hashmi living (managing • Mediterranean Diet medications, (seafood, green leafy vegetables, olive oil) finances, driving, phone calls, grocery very 65 seconds, someone in changes in the brain • Social connectivity and shopping, cooking, our nation develops Alzheimer’s have already been sense of purpose laundry and dementia. From the current six occurring for the past • In addition, hobbies and housekeeping) million, it is expected that the number 20 years. Contrast that special interests are Let’s move of people with Alzheimer’s will somber reality check excellent exercises for the mind. Examples include towards the future increase to 16 million by 2050. with this: How many reading, doing crossword of dementia care Alzheimer’s is just one type of times does your doctor or jigsaw puzzles, Sudoku which harnesses dementia. Dementia is an umbrella term ask you specifically and learning a new language technology to that describes any decline in memory about memory, or a musical instrument. combat the scourge significant enough to start impacting much less do formal Scientific evidence of dementia: day-to-day functioning. In addition to screening for it? There from the world’s leading • Visits which use Alzheimer’s, other types of dementia is a silver lining and Scandinavian healthcare system has proven the value artificial intelligence include vascular (related to stroke), some hope if we look of these lifestyle changes. to assess memory, Parkinson’s disease, Frontotemporal in the right places. As based on each unique and Lewy body dementia.

I say to my patients, individual’s upper limit of cognition medication is only 2% of the solution; and how that changes in time CHALLENGES, HOPES 98% is the non-medication lifestyle • Technology tablets that help No clinician likes to talk about the changes that each of us can make today people self-assess hearing sad reality that we do not have a cure and every day to preserve and actually • A team that actively “defor dementia. There are five FDAimprove memory. prescribes” harmful medications and approved drugs for Alzheimer’s but Science also has shown that focuses on caregiver needs these are designed to slow down the specific medical conditions Out-of-the-box solutions are progression of the disease, not to external to the brain, classically needed and may be available closer reverse the decline. not considered in dementia, have than you think.

Consider this: In the last 113 a significant impact on memory years, these five drugs are the only and brain health. These include medications approved for dementia. underlying sleep disorders, Dr. Ardeshir Z. Hashmi is Endowed Chair, Geriatric There has been no new medication depression, hearing loss and macular Innovation and Director of approved since 2003. Before any of degeneration. Identifying and treating the Cleveland Clinic Center us first notice significant changes in these conditions can potentially for Geriatric Medicine. memory, internal dementia-related improve memory.

Brain Health

E

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Better Living After 50

HEALTH

Behind the Mask

D

espite the fact that everyone is wearing masks that cover up our smiles, many people are using this time to take care of their mouths.

Dentists across the country have reported that they are especially busy.

Part of this may be attributed to people having more time on their hands; they’re not going on vacation and they’re working from home.

LOOKING GOOD People are using this extra time to get healthy — from walking to working out to taking care of their teeth.

Others are using Zoom to speak to their families and friends and are more aware of their smiles and their associates’ appearance, staring into the screen at unmasked faces.

So what can be done to improve your look? Teeth whitening with gels can be accomplished in two ways — Zoom whitening or custom-fitted trays.

Zoom whitening - often done for an event or meeting - is accomplished in a dentist’s office in about 90 minutes using a thick liquid and a laser-like light to accelerate the process. Shade changes can be impressive, depending upon the age of the patient and tooth structure. When the treatment is completed, it is recommended that patients use trays with a

YOUR SMILE STILL COUNTS

By Dr. Steve Marsh

carbamide peroxide gel 15-30 minutes once or twice a month to maintain the new color.

These same trays can be used without Zoom to acquire a whiter smile, but they need to be used much more frequently and longer to achieve the “Zoom” look.

Another option is veneers or crowns to brighten and/or change the appearance of the front teeth.

Whether used in the upper or lower arch, they can make chipped, cracked, broken or discolored teeth look like new, or close to it, as they cover the existing teeth or roots.

Requiring just two appointments, they can make a huge difference, creating a youthful and healthy smile.

Composite bonding, though not quite as resilient, also can change tooth appearance. In just one visit to the dentist, the material is applied over the tooth or where part of the tooth is missing to give the tooth an improved appearance and function.

With these options, dentistry can make a huge improvement to a smile. And now that we have more time for ourselves, we can make use of these techniques to improve both the quality and appearance of our teeth so that when we’re on our computers, we’ll have a Zoom smile on the Zoom app.

Dr.‌ ‌Steve‌ ‌Marsh‌ ‌focuses‌ ‌on‌ ‌cosmetic‌ ‌dental‌ ‌procedures‌ ‌and‌ ‌general‌ ‌dentistry.‌ ‌Visit‌ ‌ClevelandSmiles‌ ‌to‌ ‌learn‌ ‌more.

CHECK OUT BACK ISSUES AT

Boomer Northeast Ohio

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FREE

and Beyond

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PLAN A REUNION FRIEND POWER Get Some, Keep the Ones You’ve Got REEL FUN Try NEO Fly Fishing

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MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT It’s that time of year again!

The annual Medicare open enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7, for coverage changes effective in January 2021. This is your window of opportunity for Medicare plan enrollees to reevaluate your coverage — whether it’s Original Medicare with supplemental drug coverage or Medicare Advantage — and make changes if you so choose. Our Medicare Guide will help you make the right choices. Contact the featured advisors and companies that can help you make sense of the details and terminologies so you’ll secure the best plan for your particular situation. Streamline your search for the best match here. As always, you can find further information at medicare.gov. Choose well; be well.

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Better Living After 50

MEDICARE ABCs They’ve Got You Covered (Mostly)

M

edicare boils down to two questions: what’s covered and how much do I pay?

Your primary source for basic information is medicare.gov, the federal government’s official

Medicare site and the first place to go if you’ve got a question about coverage. Here’s what it says about the basics: • Medicare coverage for many tests, items, and services depends

on where you live. This list includes tests, items, and services (covered and non-covered) if coverage is the same no matter where you live.

• Medicare Part A hospital insurance covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility, hospice, lab tests, surgery, home health care.

• Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) coverage includes doctor and other health care providers’ services and outpatient care. Part B also covers durable medical equipment, home health care, and some preventive services.

• Medicare health plans include Medicare Advantage, Medical Savings Account (MSA), Medicare Cost plans, PACE, MTM Some items and services aren’t covered by Medicare Part A or Part B. You’ll have to pay for the items and services yourself unless you have other insurance. If you have a Medicare health plan, your plan may cover them.

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Better Living After 50

Sponsored Content

Covid-Safe Consultations — Find Your Fit for a Medicare Plan Presented by KAZ Company Annual enrollment can be a very confusing time to try and decide if the plan that you currently have is the right plan for your medical and/or prescription needs.

Kathy Hirko and the KAZ Company team can help you answer that question and any other questions you may have. KAZ Company is an insurance agency focused

60 Better Living After 50

ONLY on Medicare plans. We work hard to understand all of the plans in order to help you find the plan that best meets your needs.

At no cost or obligation to you and with a team all throughout Northeast Ohio KAZ Company is here to help. Give us a call at 216-901-9300.

MATURE LIVING

SHOWCASE

Allow us to introduce our Mature Living Showcase, your go-to guide for businesses and services that specialize in older adults.

Here you'll find advertisers who can help you and your loved ones age successfully in Northeast Ohio.

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Sponsored Content

LIVING YOUR LIFE… BUILDING A LIFESTYLE

By Lee Ann O’Brien for The McGregor Foundation

A

re you finding it hard to live the life you want? Are you the one in control? You have probably heard this before: “What you do today will reflect on your future.”

Every day comes with its own set of challenges, no matter your age or the business you’re in. Whether we’re talking about careers, lifestyle or healthy

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Better Living After 50

living, each path we take will determine the future life we live, the career goals we reach and our longevity.

What we do today will reflect on our future and will lead to living a happy and positive life.

Here are some tips to building that life and the lifestyle you want, today, tomorrow and in the future:

• Happiness does not come with money. We have heard this before; money doesn’t buy happiness, but it is important to life and enables us to build the lifestyle we desire.

• Clear your mind and let the good thoughts take over.

Nothing good or bad happens to us; it’s the perspective that makes us believe it’s one or the other. We need to free our mind of negative thoughts to make room for the positive ones.

• Life is all about having fun.

Make time for your friends, family and colleagues. Having fun will help to improve your mood. Sometimes, hanging out with friends is the best medicine.

• Life should be used to do what you like, to pursue what you want in life, and to reach your ultimate goal.

Live authentically and say “no” sometimes. Saying no is an art and an essential part of life. Leave time for the moments to say “yes” to the real opportunities that come your way.

• Believe in the possible. When you feel like you can’ t do something, try your best to prove yourself wrong. Life has a funny way of working out. Believe that you CAN and believe it WILL happen.

All these sentiments are applicable to any one of us, no matter the season of our lives.

Plan ahead, invest in doing the research and avoid a crisis.

McGregor’s track record among assisted living and senior retirement living experts speaks for itself. Rated a Top 100 Facility, as awarded by U.S. News & World Report, located in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Sponsored Content

REIMAGINED CLEVELAND JEWISH FILMFEST Presented by Mandel Jewish Community Center

T

he Mandel Jewish Community Center is pleased to present the annual Cleveland Jewish FilmFest this fall. The event is slated for October 15-25. The festival, now in its 14th year, brings the best of international Jewish cinema to Greater Cleveland.

The longstanding and popular Cleveland Jewish FilmFest has been reimagined this year. Films will screen primarily in a virtual format. A limited capacity opening night drive-in experience is also planned for top sponsors and donors.

The 2020 FilmFest will showcase a mixture of outstanding documentary, feature, comedy and short films.

Two critically acclaimed Israeli television series will also be streamed throughout the festival. Movie viewers can join several interactive live Zoom Q & A sessions following select film streamings.

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Better Living After 50

“We are thrilled to offer our community this stellar lineup of thought-provoking films,” says Deborah Bobrow, director of arts and culture at the Mandel Jewish Community Center. “We are committed to re-creating the festival atmosphere the best we can in this new, reimagined environment.

Unlike many traditionally in-person events, film lends itself to a virtual presentation. We are excited to deliver a dynamic opportunity for film

enthusiasts to experience powerful, award-winning films created through masterful storytelling that explore Jewish history, cultural identity, civil rights and antisemitism—offering viewers unique perspectives on issues that continue to challenge humanity today.”

Major sponsors for the 14th Annual Cleveland Jewish FilmFest include: Cuyahoga Arts and Culture, John P. Murphy Foundation, Leonard Krieger Fund of the Cleveland Foundation, The Harry K. and Emma R. Fox Charitable Foundation, The Lerner Foundation, Ohio Arts Council, Cleveland Israel Arts Connection of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and Jay Auto Group.Tickets go on sale Sept. 15. To purchase tickets and access details on the films being featured, visit mandeljcc.org/filmfest.

For more information, call 216-8310700, ext. 1378.

Sponsored Content

MOVE-INS INCREASINGLY ASK ABOUT SAFETY & COMMUNITY Presented By Rose Senior Living

W

ith amenities becoming more commoditized even among the few luxurious senior living developments in the region, we’re seeing significant uptick in interest for what can be described as “soft amenities.” We’re talking about a thoughtfully-curated safety and welcoming community.

To find both and the usual “must-haves” required searching and searching not too long ago. Now, you can have it all right here in Beachwood, Ohio. Most notably, the newly-minted, maintenance-free dwellings are intentionally designed for safely connecting its inhabitants to a community of neighbors.

WHAT TOPS YOUR LIST OF MUST-HAVES? The first residents of Rose Senior Living Beachwood are continuing to safely move in, joining their new neighbors at the active community featuring luxury homes and personalized continuum of care services, from Independent Living to Assisted Living and Memory Care.

PRACTICALITY ALERT! According to their website, move-in specials are now available: Contact 877-222-9724, info@ roseseniorliving.com, or visit beachwood.roseseniorliving.com.

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Sponsored Content

MENORAH PARK - NOW THIS IS LIVING!

M

enorah Park is more than a top choice in Northeast Ohio, and in the nation, for health and wellness services and residential living. It’s a resource offering sound solutions to improve lives with a focus on each individual’s preferences, values and motivations.

And, now we provide even more resources to help individuals continue personal stories of successful aging through our affiliation with Montefiore.

Menorah Park’s residential communities provide the warmth, caring and friendliness typical of thriving neighborhoods. Our goal is to support each individual’s desire to live empowered, to live better, and to become inspired with all the possibilities life has to offer in a safe, clean and welcoming community, fully embracing all COVID-19 safety protocols and best practices.

From independent living to assisted

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Better Living After 50

Presented by Menorah Park

living, memory care assisted living and skilled nursing care, you’ll discover the right fit that includes fun social opportunities, safe and supportive living services, signature dining, convenient amenities and a variety of creative activities as the best defense against isolation and boredom.

Find your bliss through outdoor concerts with local favorites, art

experiences, bowling and walking clubs, stimulating discussion groups, fun-filled theme events, and so much more.

Our residences include: • R.H. Myers Apartments: Catered independent living • Wiggins Place: Assisted living with a full complement of health and wellness services • Stone Gardens and The Weils: Allinclusive supportive assisted living services and amenities • Helen’s Place, The Willensky Residence and The David and Freda Robinson Residence: Assisted living residences with internationally recognized memory care programs • Menorah Park and Montefiore: Skilled nursing residences at the forefront of care and lifestyle innovations Schedule your personalized virtual tour to discover what’s right for you by calling 216-360-8202 or go to our website MenorahPark.org.

WHAT’S

Happening

Please visit northeastohioboomer.com for the most up-to-date calendar listings.

THROUGH 11/30 FALL HIKING SPREE Get out and explore; complete at least eight designated hikes to earn hiking staff (first-year hikers) and shield.

SummitMetroparks.org.

FREE

CLASSES MONDAYS Art Class: Watercolors. Step-by-step instructions for all levels. Bring a water container, spray bottle, paper towels, scissors, ruler, paint, palette, brushes and mixing tray. Through 10/26. 12:302:30 p.m. Miller Nature Preserve, 2739 Center Road, Avon, 440-937-0764, loraincountymetroparks.com. $13-15 TUESDAYS Beginner Line Dancing. Tuesday evenings beginning 10/6 for 8 weeks.

7-8 p.m. Call Jackie at 440-546-7531 for info. St. John Byzantine Catholic Church, 1900 Carlton Road, Parma. $5 donation

WEDNESDAYS Appy Hour. Join the Tech Trainers on Facebook Live every other Wednesday at 4 p.m. to learn about apps to try on your Apple and Android smartphones and tablets. 4-4:30 p.m. heightslibrary.org 9/19 Butterfly Gardening Basics. Tour the butterfly and prairie gardens to learn about the best host and nectar plants.

Learn about the pollinators that rely on these plants, how you can help them have food to survive, and easyto-put-together plant combinations.

10-11:30 a.m. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., 216-7211600, cbgarden.org. $20-35

9/20 Make Your Own Mask Tutorial. Sewing machines and a choice of fall fabrics provided. Experienced sewers are invited to learn the art of making your own face mask. Tutorial includes options for adult and child sizes. 1-2:30 p.m. French Creek Reservation, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, loraincountymetroparks.com. $4 9/24 Sustainable Body Care Products.

Create your own personal care products under the guidance of a park naturalist. Registration required. 1-2 p.m. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron, 330-865-8065, summitmetroparks.org. $10

Submit an event listing to Calendar@NortheastOhioBoomer.com or go to NortheastOhioBoomer.com September/October 2020

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WHAT´S HAPPENING 10/13 Homebrewing Craft Beer 101: Virtual. Brewing beer is fun and easy; if you can make mac and cheese from a box without help, you can make beer… and we’ll show you how. This program will provide you with all the necessary information to brew beer from an extract recipe. 5:30-6:30 p.m. divi. geaugalibrary.net

GREAT LAKES SCIENCE CENTER ONGOING Body Worlds Rx. Through the process of Plastination, a complex preservation method that removes the fluids from the body and replaces them with reactive resins and elastomers, the specimens in this special exhibition offer guests inspiration and amazement by the inner workings of the human body. 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000, greatscience.com.

FREE-$16.95

10/17 Goat Yoga. Join baby goats as they climb, stretch, sniff, lick and kiss you during your light-hearted practice, full of goat goodness. Goat yoga is a fun, playful trend. 10:30-11:30 a.m. The Twisted Olive, 5430 Massillon Road, North Canton, thetwistedolive.com/yoga-thetwisted-olive. $29-33

ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME ONGOING Class of 2020 Inductees.

Explore artifacts, instruments and a collaborative installation featuring items from each of the 2020 Inductees, including Doobie Brothers, Depeche Mode, Whitney Houston, Nine Inch Nails, The Notorious B.I.G., and more. 1100 Rock and Roll Blvd., Cleveland, 216781-7625, rockhall.com. $18-28

EXHIBITS CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO THROUGH 9/20 Asian Lantern Festival. Back by popular demand, the Asian Lantern Festival presented by Cleveland Clinic Children’s is returning with 70+ all-new, larger-than-life, colorful lantern displays and live performances on the Fifth Third Stage. 6:3010:30 p.m. 3900 Wildlife Way, clevelandmetroparks.com/zoo. $15-20 THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART THROUGH 10/4 Tiffany in Bloom: Stained Glass Lamps of Louis Comfort Tiffany. Tiffany in Bloom introduces visitors to the magic that Tiffany created with thousands of shards of glass and the “newfangled” power of electric light. 11150 East Blvd., 216-421-7350, clevelandart.org. FREE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY THROUGH 10/4 Ultimate Dinosaurs: Meet a New Breed of Bite. Explore dinosaurs of the Southern Hemisphere that evolved in isolation from the dinosaurs we know and love. 1 Wade Oval Drive, cmnh.org. FREE-$17

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STAN HYWET HALL & GARDENS ONGOING The Winds of Change. Both dynamic and nuanced, the theme is captured in a colorful garden exhibit. Composed of whimsical wind catchers and designed by an all-female group of local artists. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-836-5533, stanhywet.org.

FREE-$15

ONGOING HOLDEN ARBORETUM Patrick Dougherty’s ‘Stickwork’. Twisting mazes, towering castles and hedges full of faces that have been featured in more than 300 locations around the world from Scotland to Japan to Brussels, and all over the United States. 9500 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, 440-946-4400, holdenarb.org. $10-15

CLEVELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY ONGOING Cleveland 20/20: A Photographic Exploration. In honor of Cleveland Public Library’s 150th anniversary year, library staff, community partners, patrons and Cleveland residents alike are stepping up to help document Cleveland. A diverse range of local and teen photographers snapped photos throughout the city to ensure Cleveland was documented like never before. 325 Superior Ave., cpl.org. FREE

MUSIC 9/24 Whose Live Anyway? 90 minutes of hilarious improvised comedy and song, all based on audience suggestions. Cast members Ryan Stiles, Jeff B. Davis, Dave Foley, and Joel Murray will leave you gasping with the very witty scenes they invent before your eyes. 8 p.m. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron, 330-535-3179, akroncivic.com. $32.50-49.50 10/4 Pavilion Wine Pairing Dinner.

Experience an exclusive fall dining event in Gervasi’s beautiful covered Pavilion, nestled between a sparkling lake and lush vineyard.

Listen to live music and enjoy a five-course gourmet meal with wine pairings led by our expert wine steward, Brad Preston.

1700 55th St. NE, Canton, gervasivineyard.com. $140

11/8 Eagle’s Brunch. “Take it Easy” with Ohio’s Best Eagles Tribute. Enjoy brunch or a Bloody Mary while you’re at it. Music Box Supper Club, 1148 Main Ave., Cleveland, 216-2421250, musicboxcle.com. $10-12 11/12-14 Cleveland Orchestra: Beethoven’s Ode to Joy. UNSUK CHIN Puzzles and Games from Alice in Wonderland. BEETHOVEN - Symphony No. 9. Severance Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com 11/13 Glass Harp. The Youngstown trio of guitarist Phil Keaggy, bassist Dan Pecchio, and drummer John Sferra represent a unique position in the rock history of Northeast Ohio and nationally. 8 p.m. The Kent Stage, 175 East Main St., Kent, 330-6775005, thekentstage.com. $39-49

OUTDOORS TUESDAYS Geauga Walkers. Join other active seniors on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month for hikes in Geauga County and the surrounding area. Hikes are typically 1-1.5 miles. 1-2:30 p.m. 440-279-2137, geaugaparkdistrict.org. FREE FRIDAYS Nature Walks. Mayfield Village’s Greenway Trail. Meet at the Grove parking lot. 10 a.m. communitypartnershiponaging.org

THROUGH 11/30 Trekking Through Autumn: Hiker’s Choice. Call it hiking, walking, strolling, rambling, wandering or trekking; it’s good for body, mind and spirit — maybe now more than ever. Get out and explore the Medina County parks through this self-guided hiking program. First-year hikers earn a backpack; veteran hikers earn a pin. medinacountyparks.com.

FREE 10/27 Park Pop-Up. Stop by for a socially distanced visit with the park staff. They welcome you to ask questions or pick up park information, and they may even have some surprises for you. 4-6 p.m. Towner’s Woods Park, 2264 Ravenna Rd., Kent, co.portage. oh.us. FREE

SPECIAL EVENTS 9/23 Reader Series: Combating Racism. In the wake of the killing of another unarmed Black man by the police, protests have sprung up around the globe, and many people are now seeking ways to educate themselves on racial inequality and oppression in the U.S. In this series, we will read and discuss three popular books centered on racism in the US. Zoom panel discussion. 7 p.m. maltzmuseum.org. $5-10.

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WHAT´S HAPPENING 9/25 Apple Butter & Cider Weekend. Witness many traditional harvest activities and discover how apple butter and cider are made.

Tour the Johnny Appleseed Trail. The whole family can explore a three-acre corn maze. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, 440256-2122, lakemetroparks. com. $6-8 9/26 Fiber Arts Fest. Have you ever wondered how a sheep’s wool is transformed into your favorite sweater or warm woolly mittens?

Come and watch fiber artists demonstrate and share their love of fiber arts. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sauder Village, 22611 State Route 2, Archold, saudervillage.org 9/28-10/3 Grab-and-Go Brain Games for Adults. Pick up your bag while supplies last.

Avon Branch Library, 37485 Harvest Dr., 440-934-4743, lorainpubliclibrary.org

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/​NEOhio​Boomer

9/30 Lake Grab-&-Go for Crafty Adults. Stop by curbside pickup for this fun adult craft kit; everything you need included. Call when

you get here and they’ll bring it out to you. 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m.

Mentor-on-the-Lake Branch Library, 5642 Andrews Rd., 440-257-2512, mentorpl.org 10/1 Parking Lot Bingo.

1 p.m. South Euclid Community Center, 1370 Victory Dr., South Euclid, communitypartnershipon aging.org 10/2-4 Norton Cider Festival. A family event with something for all ages, including apple decorating, magical train, inflatables and fireworks.

Friday 5-9 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday noon-6 p.m. Columbia Woods Park, 4060 Columbia Woods Dr., nortonciderfestival.com

TALKS 9/21 Erie Wrecks: Fire, Storm & Lighthouse. Marine specialists and professional divers promise an informative and enlightening evening, complete with stories, facts and visuals from their years of research and expeditions.

7-8 p.m. Solon Branch Library, 34125 Portz Pkwy., 440-2488777, cuyahogalibrary.org.

FREE

Hear Better So You Can Socially Distance Better: Virtual. Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center will share ideas on how to improve your hearing, particularly during these unprecedented times. Noon-1 p.m. westlakelibrary.org 9/24 Creating a Dementia-Inclusive Cleveland Heights. People living with dementia and their caregivers live in every community in America.

They are our neighbors, customers, clients and friends. Join this webinar from 9 a.m.-noon. benrose.org. FREE 9/26 Medicaid Asset Protection.

Zoom Webinar on your computer, smartphone or tablet. To RSVP and register, contact Debbie DiPenti at 216-765-0123 or ddipenti@ ssandplaw.com. 2 p.m. Solomon, Steiner & Peck, Attorneys at Law, ssandplaw.com Confused by Medicare? Virtual Event. With Medicare open enrollment coming up, come join us virtually to hear Elizabeth England, SPHR, talk about your Medicare Choices. Registration is required. A Zoom link will be emailed to you. 1-2 p.m. akronlibrary.org 10/1 From Paycheck to Retirement Check: Virtual. Learn the ins and outs of the retirement planning process. Includes IRA income strategies, brokerage account income, Social Security, investment allocation tactics and more. Register for a Zoom link to be emailed to you.

6-8 p.m. akronlibrary.org 10/13 Learning for Savvy Seniors: Downsize or Age in Place? Senior Real Estate Specialist Connie Lemke will talk about options for seniors as life changes. 1-2 p.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., 440-933-8128, alpl.org. FREE 10/16 What’s New(s) in Israel (Remote).

Israeli-born Professor Kalir will take us on a quick trip through Israel’s current affairs — from national security to political reality, from recent legislation proposals to key Supreme Court cases. Noon-1 p.m.

Case Western Reserve University, Siegal LIfelong Learning, case.edu/ lifelonglearning. $5-10

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WHAT´S HAPPENING 10/27 Grandparenting Today: Virtual Webinar. Join a lively discussion from your home for grandparents-to-be and new grandparents about the changes in birthing and infant care practices.

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Fairview Hospital Wellness Center, 3035 Wooster Rd., Rocky River, events.clevelandclinic. org. $15 The Importance of Hearing on Maintaining your Independence.

Discuss the role hearing plays on maintaining your independence and the importance of hearing well on person’s cognitive and mental states.

10 a.m. Register at: blog.chsc.org/ audiology-events. Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center, chsc.org. FREE 11/10 The Dos and Don’ts of Managing Arthritis Pain: Virtual Education Series. Learn about medications, lifestyle changes and natural remedies to manage discomfort. 6-7:30 p.m. events.clevelandclinic.org. FREE

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MIND MATTERS Sponsored By

Brain Games UPGRADE YOUR MEMORY FITNESS ROUTINE

TWO FOR ONE Seriously, These are Fun Who couldn’t use a bit of fun right now? Lighten up with these brain ticklers; no paper or pencil required.

Try this activity with a friend and see who comes up with a sentence first. Extra points if it’s extra silly. Think of a four- or five-letter word. Take the letters in chronological order and make up a sentence. Be creative; it’s not as easy as it seems.

Example:

STOP APPLE WATER

Steal The Orange Peel.

Andy Praised Paul Last Evening.

Watch Alice Take Extra Raisins.

Try the suggestions below and then come up with your own. Read the word then do not look at it again. Word options could be street names, cities, names of people, months, or days of the week. Enjoy!

Here are a few words to get you started:

HANG MILK BLACK WATER How about another game?

Pick a five-letter word.

Spell it forward then spell it backward. Keep going with longer words. This is a great activity to do when taking a walk. Brain games combined with physical activity support brain health.

MEMORY QUOTE

Example:

SUGAR…..RAGUS

Try these:

PENCIL MONDAY OCTOBER MOTIVATE CELEBRATE

“A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.”

— Albert Einstein

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

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AN ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION AND STILL GETTING RID OF STUFF

BOOM! POP CULTU RE CHRON ICLES MIKE OLS ZEWSKI

I

t has been a very rewarding (and swift) five years, working with the terrific people at Northeast Ohio Boomer and Beyond, not to mention all the folks we meet at the Boomer Bashes. We still have so many stories to share and the next five years look to be very busy, as well.

In the last issue, I mentioned how we are doing a deep spring/summer cleaning and once we started, we couldn’t stop. We had time to kill with the quarantine and I suspect the neighbors think we’re ready to move because our tree lawn has plenty to offer on garbage day. We’re still at it. The guys working the truck think there’s no way two people can generate this much stuff, week after week. I heard them swearing so much, they were making up words.

The house is like a portal to another dimension, where boxes of memories and stuff you really thought you’d need end up on the curb. We’re not turning into minimalists but when you find Eagle Stamp Savings Books, Instamatic

cameras, VHS tapes and on and on, you wonder, “Why did we keep this stuff?”

NOT JUNK, HISTORY I’m still transferring audio and video files to hard drives, mostly radio airchecks, and it struck me there’s probably plenty of stuff out there, sitting in people’s closets. If you do have some old Cleveland radio shows you need transferred, contact me at the email address at the end of the column… not just the music you taped but the whole shows. I want to hear the disc jockeys and commercials. It’s a part of our history that should be preserved.

Do you have a bunch of old records?

With vinyl making its big return, you could be sitting on a gold mine if you have the right discs. Looks like we’ll be hitting the record shows once the allclear sounds.

I read an article saying that vinyl doesn’t actually sound better; it’s the sound of your old records that make them special. You recognize every

Last issue, I asked for the name of the Cleveland-born actor best remembered for roles as a secret agent and a police lieutenant. That actor was Greg Morris, who portrayed Barney Collier on ”Mission: Impossible” and Lt. David Nelson on ”Vega$.”

Have you been watching a lot of reruns? I’ve been watching shows that were old when I was a kid, but I noticed something odd.

BOOM TRIVIA

FOR NEXT TIME, name the only main character on “I Love Lucy” that wasn’t seen on “The Lucy Show.” I’ll have the answer in the next issue.

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click and pop and how it got there. The memories lie between the music. Smell can do the same thing.

Here’s what I mean: in junior high, most boys took industrial arts classes, better known as shop. Those were the days when you could still land solid blue-collar work, and Moody Jr. High had wood, electrical, metal and plastic shop courses.

A few of my classmates ended up making license plates in later years, but that’s another story. The projects they gave us in the intro classes seemed silly. In the plastic shop we had to make a keychain, and that’s what your grade was based on. That didn’t seem like a viable career path for me, but I went along with it.

I made a keychain with a silver dollar inside, and a few years later when the price of precious metals went through the roof, I thought I would cash in. The weird thing is, when I started hacking away with a saw, the smell of that plastic took me back to junior high.

I had to step back for a minute and think about what year it was. As far as I was concerned, the plastic was now worth more than the silver. The dollar was set free, and I keep it with the plastic in my security box.

HOLIDAY PREP Another thing we started early...

Christmas shopping! We figured with quarantine, etc., that mail-order shops are going to be overwhelmed once the season begins, so we’ve been picking up items here and there. What a weird year.

Mike Olszewski is a veteran award-winning radio, TV and print journalist and college instructor. Contact him at janmike1978@gmail.com.

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