Avid hikers Jim Satrape and Kim Walton enjoy an afternoon at Cleveland Metroparks Brecksville Reservation.
Irecently spent a morning unclogging our toilet after I flushed my husband’s deodorant and realized, too late, that underarm deodorant should never see the inside of a toilet bowl.
Looking down at an overflowing toilet, I suddenly understood the danger of TikTok and other video-sharing platforms, Chinese ownership and government data gathering aside. I’m not a social media influencer: I’m the influenced.
My social media mishap occurred like most poor decisions… between midnight and 3 a.m. I was scrolling through my TikTok feed, past playful golden retrievers and curly hair tutorials when I landed on a woman boiling a jar of Vaseline.
The Vaseline woman added fragrant oil, poured the liquid into an empty deodorant container, stuck it in the freezer and, just like that… the best perfumed Vaseline you’ve ever had and didn’t know you needed.
I hit my husband’s deodorant stockpile, popped out the solid bar and tossed it into the toilet, an action to be dealt with later, I soon learned.
I turned my attention to the empty container, poured in the melted Vaseline and stuck it next to a bag of frozen wontons. Eager for the heady pleasure of fragrant homemade Vaseline, I waited an hour to find it wouldn’t come out of the tube, no matter how much I twisted the bottom. That part wasn’t in the TikTok video. I spent the next two hours working the clog out of the toilet and cleaning Vaseline off the counter.
I’ve had issues with Instagram and Facebook, too. I’ve bought magnesium oil to rub on my feet because an influencer with 127,000 followers said it would help me sleep. I’ve bought an overpriced belt recommended
by a content creator who promised it would give me a waistline. I’m embarrassed to admit, I even tried magnetic eyelashes to make me look younger. I tossed them (in the garbage, not a toilet) when a little girl looked up at me and said, “Mrs. Elium, you’ve got something hanging off your eye.”
While our government officials don’t trust social media, for me, it’s different: I can’t be trusted with social media. It leads me down rabbit holes of envy and hubris, and, while entertaining and occasionally inspiring, isn’t adding much to my overall well-being.
That brings me to our September/ October issue, which features outdoor adventures you can do, not just watch on a video. With most of the heat and humidity behind us, fall is a wonderful time to venture out. We introduce you to people and programs to expand your world and push your limits. Not an outdoor adventure type? No problem. Start where you’re most comfortable and see how it goes.
I'm no expert on social media algorithms, but after looking up “How to Unclog a Toilet,” I’m getting unpleasant videos across my TikTok and Instagram feeds. Maybe I should think of the Vaseline incident as an act of patriotism. If the Chinese government believes America is full of Vaseline-melting citizens and clogged toilets, how much of a threat can we be?
America: home of the free, the brave, and the fragrantly oiled. Finally, I’ve found a way to serve our great country. It doesn’t compare to military service (thank you, veterans), but it’s all I’ve got. My Vaseline skin has never looked better.
VOL. 10, ISSUE 5
Sept/Oct 2024
Northeast Ohio Boomer is a property of Mitchell Media LLC
PO Box 1088 Hudson, OH 44236 330-822-4011 NortheastOhioBoomer.com
/NEOhioBoomer /NEOhioBoomer
PUBLISHER - Brad Mitchell brad@northeastohioboomer.com 330-714-7712
EDITOR - Marie Elium marie@northeastohioboomer.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR - Estelle Rodis-Brown estelle@northeastohioboomer.com
EDITORIAL SUGGESTIONS editor@northeastohioboomer.com
CALENDAR LISTING SUBMISSIONS calendar@northeastohioboomer.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Jennifer Beach, Estelle Rodis-Brown, Bill DeMarco, Traci McBride, Mike Olszewski, Linda Peavy
Tak Sato, Karen Shadrach
ART DIRECTOR - Laura Chadwick laura@northeastohioboomer.com
ADVERTISING SALES
Sales Consultant
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VICE PRESIDENT
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PUBLISHER OF
NEO BOOMER EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD
Mindi Axner
Executive Director National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland
Dr. Ardeshir Z. Hashmi Cleveland Clinic Director Center for Geriatric Medicine
Julienne Hayes Content Manager Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging
Kathy M. Hirko Owner KAZ Company
Kathryn Kilpatrick President Communication Connection LLC
Kelsey Loushin President Eldercare Professionals of Ohio
Stephanie Manning The American Heart Association, Cleveland
Steven Marsh Dr. Steve Marsh, DDS
Fatima Perkins Director of Community Outreach Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging
Northeast Ohio
Thrive After 55
Coming in the November/ December Issue beginning November 19
GOOD GIVING
Mindfulness & Winter Outings
Bob Pontius Director of External Relations Danbury Senior Living
Leslie Royce Resnik President Royce Public Relations
Beth Silver Director of Public Relations and Marketing Menorah Park
Candyce Traci Vice President All Media Design Group
Nancy Udelson Retired CEO Alzheimer's Association Cleveland Area Chapter
Compiled by Marie Elium
GEAUGA-STYLE
In Northeast Ohio, it’s tough to find scenery that isn’t an “I-can’tbelieve-I-live-here” fall vista.
Our good luck aside, we asked the folks at the Geauga Park District for their favorite leaf-peeping hikes for gobsmacking autumn scenery. Here’s naturalist Trevor Wearstler’s take on it:
“Honestly, anywhere with an open field or meadow where you can see
the treeline would be good: Burton Wetlands Reservation, Observatory Park or Frohring Meadows, off the cuff. An especially popular new location for fall foliage is Veterans Legacy Woods. Not only does the park itself catch fire with colors, but you can see miles of fall colors into the distance from the entrance.”
He continues. “As for my personal suggestion, The Maple Highlands
Trail can take you along 21 miles of color, including a lot of open areas where the leaves generally begin to change first.”
Another favorite place (of Boomer editor Marie Elium) is Welton’s Gorge just outside of Burton. The Rookery is terrific, too. Get directions at geaugaparkdistrict.org.
Taxes, roads, schools. We all know people who gripe about stuff but don’t bother to do anything about it. A simple way to make your voice heard is at the ballot box.
You’re in luck if you want to be a more informed voter for the Nov. 5 general election. Cuyahoga County Public Library is hosting several programs to clarify the issues and candidates on the ballot.
The library system is partnering with Signal Cleveland, the League of Women Voters and the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections to offer a series of voter education seminars at library branches throughout Cuyahoga County, now through the end of October.
The only thing worse than not voting is not knowing what you’re voting for. Topics range from key issues on the ballot, the origins of our voting system, and key dates for voter registration and mail-in ballots. If you’ve got a question, someone will have the answer.
Learn more by going to the Cuyahoga County Public Library website, cuyahogalibrary.org/votereducation.
Avon Lake’s Jerry Popiel is a popular singer-songwriter, well-known among local audiences who will undoubtedly welcome his album “Edgewater” when it’s released this November.
Popiel tells us his folk-country-rock music “captures a nostalgic look at life in the days before computers ruled daily life.” Many of the songs have a familiar edge. The title track recalls “pining for summer classics like mayflies, cottonwoods, driftwood, spitting watermelon seeds and old El Caminos sitting in the driveway.” He sings about tugboat crews working on the Cuyahoga in “Collision Bend.”
We’re on board for Popiel’s musical nostalgia. Find the album and his original music on Apple Music, Amazon, YouTube, Spotify and other streaming outlets.
If you’re a fan of Ohio-based detective novels, you know about Wooster’s Bob Adamov. His mystery-adventure books based in Put-in-Bay have created a legion of fans, near and far. Bob’s new book has a familiar storyline with an unexpected spin. “Alone at Home” takes the Christmas classic “Home Alone” movie theme and spins a tale of a curmudgeonly 80-year-old who’s spending Christmas watching a cat. Adamov tells us his new book is humorous, heartwarming and ultimately, a tale of redemption. You can find it on Amazon or at packardislandpublishing.com.
Compiled by Marie Elium
HWAP. HEAP. PIPP. The alphabet soup of letters boils down to lower utility bills for lowincome residents, with priority typically given to older adults.
The Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) helps people make their homes more energy-efficient with insulation, upgraded heating system repairs and more. Call 800-282-0880 or go to energyhelp.ohio. gov to apply.
HEAP offers a one-time payment for utility customers in need. Household income can’t exceed $26,355 for one person, or $35,770 for two. Download an application at development.ohio.gov or pick one up at a community action agency, post office or library.
And finally, PIPP Plus (Percentage of Income Payment Plan) helps low-income families make more affordable monthly payments year-round for their utilities. You can apply through your local utility provider.
Sponsored Content
Presented by Ben Rose
Benjamin Rose’s annual TRIUMPH event was a vibrant celebration of community, resilience and unwavering support for older adults.
Held at the Benjamin Rose headquarters, the event kicked off with an inspiring keynote address from Dr. Olusegun Ishmael, Chief Operating Officer at MetroHealth. Dr. Ishmael emphasized how every one of us—from health systems to the local community—plays a vital role in ensuring older adults thrive on their aging journeys.
One highlight was a client panel sharing their impactful experiences with Benjamin Rose programs. Breast cancer survivor Phyllis Callihan spoke about how a compassionate clinical social worker from Behavioral Health Services helped her heal from past traumas. Willie Wade told his powerful story of rebuilding his life with the help of Benjamin Rose’s housing and financial wellness programs after losing his home. Dorothy Campbell spoke about the sense of community she found at the Rose Centers for Aging Well, where she now enjoys activities like Tai Chi and group trips. Caregiver Michael Matlock discussed how the WeCare…Because You Do care-coaching program gave him the tools to support his 83-year-old mother confidently.
The awards segment of the event shined a spotlight on community champions dedicated to uplifting older adults in the Cleveland area. Dr. Ardeshir Hashmi and the Cleveland Clinic Center for Geriatric Medicine earned the Above and Beyond Award. Sara Parks Jackson, the Cuyahoga County Director of Housing and Community Development, took home the Inez Tillman Killingsworth Community Leadership Award. Medical Mutual was recognized with the Community Partnership Award.
The event also featured the presentation of the Golden Achievement Award. Nominees Barbara Anderson, Deanna Reeves, Mark McNamara and Semanthie Brooks were celebrated for their extraordinary contributions to their communities. Mark McNamara, a Community Engagement Specialist with LakewoodAlive, ultimately received the award for his exceptional work in helping older adults age in place.
The day concluded with a community resource fair where attendees connected with local support groups. The TRIUMPH event truly lived up to its name, demonstrating how powerful it is when a community unites to champion the well-being of older adults.
By Tak Sato
ince graduating from college more than three decades ago, I've been through two cars; I’m currently on my third. I buy/finance my car instead of leasing. It feels good to make that last payment and own my car instead of having nothing to my name when a lease ends. Not long ago, we had to buy software applications to install on our computers; it’s called perpetual licensing. But for more than a decade, the software industry has been moving away from this business model and instead adding or outright replacing it with the subscription (leasing) format.
Some companies, like Microsoft, offer both the buy and lease options for their office productivity software suites that include Word, Excel and Powerpoint (word processing, spreadsheet and presentation applications, respectively). Other companies have moved to offering only subscriptions by leasing their software. Subscriptions are what fuels cloud-based, internet-based offerings ranging from Netflix (movies) or Spotify (music) to cloud storage and everything in between. Back to Microsoft’s Office. Should you buy it or lease it? This question comes up often, especially when someone buys a new computer.
The answer? Compare the cost of ownership over the short-term, like three years.
For example, how much would you have paid at the end of three years if you bought Office 2021 for Home and Students if you only need one installation of Office on one computer for your non-commercial use?
Your three-year cost would be $150 to buy versus $210 under the Microsoft 365 Individual (subscription) plan. Remember that you can use Office 2021 for Home and Student installation as long as Microsoft supports it without paying a penny more in year four and beyond, versus paying $70 annually for the subscription. Buying it outright makes sense.
But if you had a family of five and everyone needed Office on their computers, the three-year total cost of ownership would be $750 (to buy the five licenses) versus $300 to subscribe to the Microsoft365 Family (subscription) Plan, so a subscription makes sense in that case.
What about paying for an upgrade of Office? My response: how fast can you type? A newer version of Word won't make you type faster. Unless Microsoft ceases support of the Office version you’re using, save your money for a rainy day.
AUTHOR’S NOTE — I have no connection to or affiliation with the business that was advertised with my tech column in the July/August issue. The colors and image used in the ad may have led readers to believe that I was connected with the business. I am not. Services provided by my nonprofit, Center for Aging in the Digital World, have always been and will continue to be provided for free.
— Tak Sato
But wait, there is at least one other option. Freeloading is where you use a cloud service version of Word, Excel and/or PowerPoint, which may work for many people out there with basic needs. Using your favorite web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, etc.), you can access the cloud-based office services Microsoft offers for free. You will be saving the documents, spreadsheets and presentations you create in Microsoft's cloud storage service called "OneDrive" as a default, but you can just as easily download the file to your device, if you want to. Many people use their computers to simply check emails, stream entertainment, browse the web, shop online, or do their banking. An educated consumer is the best consumer, even in the digital world. Always choose appropriately.
Tak Sato is the founder of the Clevelandarea nonprofit, Center for Aging in the Digital World (empowerseniors.org), which teaches digital literacy to people 60+ through the free Discover Digital Literacy program.
TBy Linda Peavy
he fall 2024 fashion trends will be a relief for women over 50. Taking a cue from the past, the trends offer wearable classic and comfortable styles for any occasion. Think plaids, turtlenecks, ballet shoes, warm browns and soft faux fur coats. Add one or more of these trends to your fashion rotation and keep your wardrobe fresh and modern.
Yes, plaids are back. Plaids are extremely versatile prints worn on everything from skirts to scarves. Plaid adds color and interest to the wardrobe when you want to move beyond monochromatic solids. Plaids were seen on the runways from Burberry to Rasbanne.
Love them or hate them, feathers are back. Feathers on hems, cuffs and necklines adorned designers from Ferragamo to Bottega Venet. You can go big or small, but try this trend to get a bird’s eye for fall chic.
Ditch the stilettos for fall. Add cuteness and comfort to your shoe wardrobe. Ballet flats offer heel and leg comfort and can be found in casual to red carpet styles. Try different colors to add zest to your outfit.
Look for these two colors in stores this fall. Fern will be seen in various designs that make keeping workwear and evening dresses in style a breeze. Tomato cream is a very warm hue that will highlight dresses and coats.
Look for attached scarves to coats, sweaters, ponchos and more. The look will be THE fall/winter 2024 outerwear trend from Chloe to Brandon Maxwell. These cozy designs offer a slim appearance since the bulk of the fabric will be centered around the neck and shoulders, giving a tapered look to the bodice.
6. TURTLENECKS
Yes, the age-old fashion staple has made a comeback. Turtlenecks
were used on fall runways from Prada to Bottega Veneta. So versatile, a basic turtleneck can be worn alone or under a suit as an alternative to a shirt or blouse. In a more sumptuous fabric, it can be paired with a fancier skirt for after-work affairs.
7. STATEMENT
FAUX FUR COATS
Not just for special occasions anymore, oversized statements were seen on the fall 2024-2025 runway by Givenchy. Perfect for cold winter work days, faux fur will keep you in style and warmth. Look for coats in leopard print or quirky colors to add spark to drab winter days.
Linda Peavy is a Cleveland-based fashion influencer with a global reach, providing body positivity presentations internationally as the founder of Cultured Curves (culturedcurves.com). Linda’s Style Stop is your one-stop source of fashion tips to keep you looking sensational at any age.
As the leaves change and the air grows crisp, fall is the perfect time to get outside and get creative with your grandkids. One of the best ways to make the most of this special season is through outdoor painting. This fun and accessible activity allows you to bond with your grandkids while helping them develop their artistic skills and a deeper appreciation for nature.
Outdoor painting offers a host of benefits for kids. For one, it encourages them to get outside and engage with the natural world. By observing the vibrant colors and interesting textures of fall up close, kids can gain a greater appreciation for the changing seasons.
At the same time, outdoor painting helps kids develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination as they learn to mix colors and apply paint to their canvas. Most importantly, outdoor painting provides kids with a healthy outlet for self-expression. With a blank canvas in front of them, kids have the freedom to bring their unique visions to life. Your older grandkids can try their hand at reproducing the landscape in front of them. Smaller children love to make their own shapes and swirls of color.
To get your grandkids started with outdoor easel painting, you’ll want a few basic supplies. First, you’ll need a sturdy, kid-friendly easel. Look for one with a waterproof tray
and adjustable height settings to accommodate your grandkids as they grow.
Easels can be small, made of wood or plastic, and can be set up on the top of a picnic table. Or, you can have a lightweight easel with legs that fold, making it easy to travel with and
By Karen Shadrach
store when you are finished. Next, pick up vibrant, waterbased paints and a selection of paintbrushes in various sizes. Don’t forget a few canvases or a roll of paper to fit the easel, smocks, (an old T-shirt will do) and water cups for cleaning. If you want to make
things interesting, consider adding outdoor painting tools like sponges, spray bottles, and items found in nature like leaves and sticks. Take the grandkids to a local park, or just stay in your own yard. Set up their easel, and you’re all set to paint.
When it comes to outdoor painting with the kids, the key is to keep things fun and relaxed. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Let your grandkids play with different techniques like dripping, splattering and stamping to add texture and interest to their work. If you enjoy painting yourself, get involved; don’t just stand on the sidelines. Working on a painting alongside your grandkids can be a great way to bond and have some fun.
The most important thing is that your grandkids enjoy the painting process and feel proud of what they’ve created; praise their effort, not just results. Also, offer plenty of positive reinforcement along the way. Display their artwork proudly to help them feel seen and appreciated, encouraging them to continue exploring their creativity. Since easel paintings can get quite large to collect over time, you can take a picture and print it to save their masterpieces.
Consider making outdoor painting an annual fall tradition. This can give your grandkids something to look forward to and provide a fun way to track their progress over time.
Outdoor painting is a wonderful way to get your grandkids outside and engaged in a fun, creative activity this fall. By providing a few simple supplies and some gentle guidance, you can set up your grandkids for a season of artistic exploration and discovery. So why not give it a try? Grab an easel, head outside, and watch as your grandkids bring the beauty of fall colors to life on canvas.
Karen Shadrach is a Northeast Ohio on-the-go, in-the-know grandmother of two sets of twins. Read her grandparenting blog at northeastohioboomer.com.
Farm to Table. Kids pick apples & vegetables and gather eggs. Next, they buy and sell from each other at a farmer’s market. Lastly, they put on a chef hat and make lunch. Akron Children’s Museum, 216 S. Main St., akronkids.org. $7
Hershey Children’s Garden. Search for fish, frogs and turtles in the pond, learn about veggie and herb gardens, create in the sandbox, care for plants, and explore and play in nature’s playground. 11030 East Blvd., University Circle, cbgarden.org $14-20
Shark Gallery & Sea Tube. Features three species of sharks, stingrays, eels and many other species of fish. Greater Cleveland Aquarium, 2000 Sycamore St., Cleveland, greaterclevelandaquarium.com. FREE-$19.95
Through Mid-October Corn Maze. Winding paths that steer you to intersections where you must decide where to go. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road., Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com
9/21, 9/28, & 10/12
Fall Festival. U-pick apples, live music, farm animals, pony rides and more. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bauman Orchards, 161 Rittman Ave., Rittman, baumanorchards.com
9/28
National Alpaca Farm Day Open House. Meet alpacas and learn about the alpaca lifestyle. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Our Little World Alpacas, 16800 Cowley Road, Grafton, ourlittleworldalpacas.com. FREE
Medina Fall Festival. Hay bale maze, pet parade, pumpkin painting, games, face painting and more. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Main Street Medina, mainstreetmedina.com. FREE
9/27-10/6
Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical. A colorful history lesson for children, reminding them that our differences make us awesome, not outcasts. Talespinner Children’s Theatre, 1305 W. 80th St, Cleveland, talespinnercle. org. $8-15
9/28-10/27
Pumpkin Pandemonium. Scavenger hunt, Harvest Maze, hayride and more. Heritage Farms, 6050 Riverview Road, Peninsula, heritagefarms.com. $6-13
10/4-26
Pumpkins and Ponies Pony rides, horse rides, hayrides and more. Fridays and Saturdays. Spring Mist Farms, 691 Pearl Road, Brunswick Hills, springmistfarms.com. $2-5
10/11-12
Enchanted Forest Meet costumed volunteers such as black bear, dirt, luna moth, and slug along the pumpkin-lit trails. 6:30-8:30 p.m. The Wilderness Center, 9877 Alabama Ave., SW, Wilmot, wildernesscenter. org. FREE-$10
10/18-19
Heavenly Harps. Kid-friendly tunes and our energetic hosts will get children singing, clapping, and moving to the music! 10 a.m. Friday, 11 a.m. Saturday. Severance Music Center, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com. $7
By Jennifer Beach
Exercise and movement are crucial at any age but especially as we grow older.
Regular movement cuts the risk of falling and getting frail. It helps us control or improve in many health metrics: weight, chronic diseases, dementia, diabetes, mood and sleep disorders, and more.
“If older adults want to remain as functional and independent as possible, exercise is typically an important part of how they can do that,” says Dr. Angela Catic, associate professor of Geriatric Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine.
“Think about the why. For many older adults, it is helpful to have a conversation about what they value, and oftentimes, that includes things like being independent and enjoying things in their life, which requires being as mobile as possible.”
While most research focuses on how cardiovascular and strengthening exercises can help us live longer, flexibility has not been as popular of a topic. Researchers from the Exercise Medicine Clinic (CLINIMEX) in Rio
de Janeiro, Brazil, wanted to know whether flexibility could have a similar effect on longevity.
Flexibility refers to the range of motion of muscle and connective tissues at a joint or group of joints. The study assessed 3,000 people to learn how flexibility impacts longevity. The team examined data collected from participants over a period of 28 years.
The findings weren’t surprising. People with more flexibility tended to live longer than those with lower flexibility ranges, researchers concluded.
It’s never too late to become flexible, but it does get more difficult with age. Tendons become more rigid, and muscles and joints that allow for easy mobility become stiff. A lack of flexibility makes daily activity challenging and also makes individuals more prone to accidents later in life.
• Focus on stretching major muscle groups (back, shoulders, legs and arms ) two or more times a week.
• While working to gain flexibility, know it will happen slowly, over
time. Stretching can provide instant gratification. If you’re stiff or have muscle pain, it’s easy to feel like the last thing you want to do is move. But gentle stretching paired with deep breathing can release tension immediately.
• Yoga, tai chi, pilates, dancing and working with resistance bands are individual and group activities that can help you gain more flexible muscles. You can stretch in a chair, in a bed, on the floor, standing or sitting.
• Talk to your medical provider to see if you may benefit from a physical therapy evaluation to work on your flexibility and educate yourself or your loved one.
• Go online for excellent resources including guided videos to help you stretch. Try eldergym.com’s articles and easy-to-follow videos.
Increasing my flexibility is something I should do but can’t seem to build into my routine with any consistency. I asked Helen, a 93-year-old client, if she would help me work on this goal; I’m a firm believer in the buddy system for motivation. Plus, I’m always looking for ways to keep our visits engaging within the limited surroundings of the nursing home where she resides.
I asked Helen if we could start our visit with a few simple stretches while we both remain seated in chairs (she is in a wheelchair). I was surprised that, after a little persuasion, she was more than willing to work with me. Now, we have made it part of our visit routine. We start with five minutes of stretching our arms above our heads, stretching our necks slowly in small circles, and flexing our feet back and forth. We then follow a 10-minute stretching video on my cell phone at the start of each visit. This activity has been beneficial for both Helen and me in many ways.
I encourage you to give it a try for yourself and for those you care for. You’ll discover that you can increase not only your flexibility but theirs, too.
Jennifer Beach is an Advanced Aging Life Care Professional. She established Advocate for Elders (advocate4elders.com) in Rocky River, where she works with and advocates for older adults and their families.
By Traci McBride
Inflation isn’t new to older adults; we’ve seen it before, but the impact is different each time.
Here are ways to take back control, shift our mindset, save money, spend wisely and make peace with the situation.
Editing and fine-tuning our home this time of year is evergreen for me with the added lens of cost versus need, being mindful as we sell or buy what is necessary to live a comfortable and stylish life. Clearing clutter brings benefits, such as less cleaning, managing or repairing, and more space.
Implementing these strategies will free up space, give you a sense of order, save money, and provide peace. Tightening our belts doesn’t need to mean denying ourselves; it’s about recalibrating what is essential.
Created by Ardiansyah from the Noun Project
Changing our habits can feel awkward but can have lasting benefits. What are your favorite hacks to save money? Send your suggestions to editor@northeastohioboomer.com and we’ll highlight them in an upcoming issue.
HERE ARE A FEW EXAMPLES:
Save with bulk buying. Purchase items with a long shelf life, such as marinara sauce, paper products, nuts and freezer meat. Investing in a garage freezer can save money by taking advantage of sale prices. If neighbors or family use the same products as you and want the big box club price without purchasing huge quantities, team up and split the costs.
Senior Centers offer activities, such as swimming, games, discounted lunches and affordable bus trips. If Europe isn’t on the budget, closer, shorter trips can be fun. One example: Rocky River Senior Center is sponsoring a Christmas in New York City tour.
Silver Sneakers, offered through many Medicare plans, can help you stay fit with free membership to local gyms.
Trade or sell plants from your garden with your neighbors.
Host a Swap Party where everyone brings a set number of items in whatever category (kitchen/décor/clothing/jewelry) the host chooses, and take what you need from other guests. Donate leftovers to a thrift shop.
Thrift gifts for the grandkids. Look for gently used toys and books, then put the money you save into an account for them to have later.
Shop your home. Rework what you have, especially if you enjoy changing things regularly. Moving furniture and art around is free.
Shop reversible clothing with two looks for one garment, such as skirts, camisoles, wrap dresses, and wool wraps. Look online for options.
Sell or buy on Facebook Marketplace, if that’s something you’re comfortable doing.
Before buying or selling anything retail or thrift, use your smartphone’s Google Lens to find the value to sell it or get the lowest price and place to buy it.
Barter with those who have a skill set you don’t have.
Pay cash at restaurants to avoid the added credit card fee.
Look for services you often use that offer cash discounts. Some nail salons, for example, give an 8% discount if you use cash.
DIY & dupes. Replicating an expensive retail item on a budget can be rewarding. YouTube creators provide step-by-step directions. Give one a try.
Cook in bulk and freeze smaller portions for later.
Traci McBride is a Northeast Ohio lifestylist of wardrobes and homes who helps people create spaces that reflect their evolved style. You can find her at Zspaces. TeeMcBee.com or contact her at Traci@TeeMcBee.com.
Cleveland Senior Network’s SENIOR WELLNESS EXPO
— Halloween 2024 —
Looking for a fun and informative way to start your Halloween day? Seniors in the community are invited to Cleveland Senior Network’s Senior Wellness Expo-Halloween 2024 on Thursday, October 31, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Beachwood Community Center, 25225 Fairmount Blvd.
Hosted by CSN and premier sponsors Five Star Clinical Solutions and Right at Home, this free outreach is designed to help local seniors gather information about beneficial services available to them in the community. The event will offer health screenings, informational presentations, senior service vendor tables, Halloween candy, and boxed lunches compliments of The Ashton (formerly Anthropologie) to the first 150 participants who pre-register by Oct. 8.
Come dressed for Halloween to enter the costume contest for your chance to win a prize. You can also enter raffles for more prizes, enjoy some exercise instruction and listen to helpful safety and wellness presentations from the fire department and healthcare services.
Visit vendor tables by area organizations serving the local senior community, including those listed on this page. Vendors are all members of the Cleveland Senior Network, a group of people from companies that work with seniors and care providers in the Cleveland area.
At Constellation Hospice, we are committed to delivering compassionate care, respect and integrity. Family-owned for over 15 years, we are committed to providing the best patient experience and the highestquality outcomes.
Eva M. Konya, MBA, BSN, RN, Administrator: 216678-2263, ConstellationOH-2@constellationhs.com, constellationhs.com
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Task Angel Care Services: No task too big or small. Specializing in helping disabled individuals or seniors when you can’t be there. Melinda Smith, Owner: 216-409-8140, taskangelcareservices@gmail.com
We are committed to helping community members because our goal remains NETWORKING WITH A HEART. Pre-register at no cost now by calling Shalom Plotnik at 216752-2222 or email him at shalom@ ohioseniorcare.net. Those who place reservations by Oct. 8 will receive an extra raffle ticket. Happy Halloween!
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Grande Pointe Healthcare Center: Offering skilled nursing, long-term care, in-house dialysis and a secure dementia unit. Our engaging approach creates meaningful social connections and a more active lifestyle with events and activities.
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Playhouse Square evolves with its audience, technology, and vision for the future.
By Mike Olszewski
The story of Cleveland’s Playhouse Square theaters has become almost legendary.
Many of us remember when the Palace and its neighbors down the street had a date with the wrecking ball. Thanks to a group of visionaries, the theaters were saved and became among the largest performing arts centers outside New York City. Its first 100 years have provided a tradition that folks at the Square vow to continue, but that also means meeting new challenges.
Autumn Kiser is Senior Vice President of Revenue and Marketing, and we asked her how they maintain the legacy at Playhouse Square. The
answer: meeting audience needs in light of economic stressors and riding the wave of technology.
“As a nonprofit organization that also focuses on arts education, we’ve also had to continue to evaluate how to fill the gap of exposure to the performing arts that is so often missing in schools today. Whether through in-person performances or streaming shows, we are finding new ways to reach these students and provide the resources their educators may seek,” she says.
Playhouse Square grew recently with the addition of the prestigious Cleveland Play House, a move Kiser says served everyone well.
“The breadth and depth of the Cleveland Play House’s performance offerings give more opportunities for audiences, both new and returning, to create memorable experiences at Playhouse Square, as well as generate exposure for the work that the company does,” she says.
Further, Playhouse Square’s purchase of the historic Greyhound bus station will expand the theater district’s footprint in downtown Cleveland with a nod to preservation.
“We look forward to sharing our plans for the space when they are solidified. In the meantime, we are committed to respecting the historic integrity of the building and to working with the City of Cleveland and Greyhound to ensure
the transition to Greyhound’s new base of operations occurs on a timetable that works for all parties. We are also exploring the possibility of repurposing other existing spaces along Euclid Avenue for additional live music or performance spaces,” Kiser adds.
David Greene is the Square’s Senior Vice President of Programming; he books shows up 18 months in advance.
He says the Square’s reputation is an advantage, noting, “Cleveland is geographically well situated for touring artists, and Playhouse Square delivers a backstage experience for artists and their teams that sets us apart from any competition.
“The Square’s venues are historic and beautiful, but it’s the audiences that give us an advantage. The Broadway season ticket community here is the largest in North America; more than 40,000 strong. That, combined with the fact that all of the shows on the KeyBank Broadway Series stay for at least three weeks, puts Cleveland at the top of the priority list for all of touring Broadway. The 1.2 million guests that visit Playhouse Square annually gives us the leverage to attract world-class artists and maintain eight strong resident companies.”
As the saying goes, The show must go on; an idea guiding the Square’s current caretakers into the future.
See Live Theater listings at northeastohioboomer.com
Don’t let the cool, crisp autumn air drive you indoors. Instead, dare yourself to get immersed in new adventures the changing seasons bring.
Cleveland Metroparks (CM) makes it easy. Not only are we surrounded by the all-purpose trails winding through the Emerald Necklace, but the adventure-based programs offered by CM’s Outdoor Recreation division invite us to safely push beyond our comfort zones.
Their Try It, Learn It, Live It series takes place on land (Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Races/ Events, Adaptive Recreation, Backpacking & Camping and Mountain Biking), on water (Kayaking, Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Canoeing, Sailing, Fishing) and in the air (Rock Climbing).
We’re moving past the sailing, paddleboarding and canoeing seasons until next spring, but other activities are held throughout the year, regardless of age, experience or physical limitations, says
By Estelle Rodis-Brown | Photography by Kim Stahnke
Rachel Nagle, CM’s Manager of Outdoor Recreation.
“A lot of our guests are 50, 60, 70. Older guests are either looking to try something new for the first time or get back to being active again. Maybe they had been active in their past lives, then they had kids and got away from it. Now the kids are gone, and suddenly, they have all this time to get back to doing what they used to do.”
The Try It, Learn It, Live It series encourages participants to find an adventure that’s right for them at the time in their life that’s right for them, Nagle adds.
“With a focus on outdoor recreation—human-powered, natural resource-based activities—we want people in Northeast Ohio to realize there are opportunities in their back yard. They don’t have to go to Colorado or Myrtle Beach to do it. They can choose their adventure at the level they want.”
Progress through your activity of choice according to your entry point.
Try It - This introductory level invites you to try something new (a short, low-cost experience).
“Come out and see if you like it,” Nagle says. “If you love it and want to continue, then we have classes where we dive deeper into the techniques and ways you can go further with it. If you try it and don’t like it, then you can try a different activity next time… whatever works for you.”
Then advance to the Learn It level, where the Outdoor Recreation staff of qualified, certified professionals and volunteers guide you through proper techniques to learn a new skill or get back to activities you once loved.
Live It : This is the goal… to embrace an active, outdoor lifestyle, confidently on your own, in the parks and farther afield.
“When people come to our programs, we want them to know that they’re in good hands, that we want to take them from where they’re at and help to grow them to where they want to be, in the way they want,” says Nagle, who has worked with CM in Outdoor Recreation since 2011.
“Because, when you’re out on the water or in the backcountry, you realize that connecting with nature in Cleveland Metroparks is why people live, work and play in Cleveland. You can have great experiences right here in your own back yard.
“For all of our staff, it’s a lifestyle, not just a job. This is what we do on our own; what we love to do as our passion. That’s why we want to share it.”
We spoke to people who participate in CM’s Outdoor Rec program. They tried it, learned it and not only live it now… they love it.
“Being outdoors is beneficial to my mental health. Nature is my therapy. I get on the trail and I feel accepted, whole, confident and complete. I have periods of depression and anxiety, and loading up my pack and hitting a trail does wonders for me. I need more tent time. The sound of a nearby creek, frogs singing, my dog snoring… It all beckons me. Green space is magic.” — Kim Walton
Kim Walton was born and raised in Cleveland. Now a Euclid resident, she is retired from the Air Force.
“I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors,” she says. “Growing up, my father would take us to parks to hike or I would hang out with him on fishing trips. I did some hiking here and there through the years, but nothing major.”
Walton became an avid hiker in the ‘90s when stationed in Germany, traversing through the countryside with various Volksmarching Clubs... five, 10 or 20 kilometers at a time.
Once Walton reached her mid-50s, she discovered running and entered a handful of half-marathons before she tore her meniscus. This knee injury helped her rediscover her love of hiking and tent camping.
She tried backpacking with CM’s Outdoor Rec program. Soon, Walton added kayaking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and other outdoor skills to her repertoire. Last year, she went from program participant to a hired seasonal Information Specialist for Outdoor Recreation.
“It’s the perfect job,” she says. “It’s a blend of admin work and my love of the parks. I get to help support the team that means so much to me, advocating for Cleveland Metroparks every day, talking to callers and working the occasional family campout event. Good times.”
Walton’s involvement with CM started with her curiosity about backpacking. Once she decided to Try It, everything fell into place.
For local hiking
• Northeast Ohio Hiking Club - NEO Hiking Club Facebook page
• nEo Adventurers - meetup.com/northeast-ohio-adventurers/
• Greater Akron Area Hikers - meetup.com/summit_county_ohio_hikers/
• Cleveland Hiking Club - clevelandhikingclub.org/ For paddling
• Ohio Kayak Adventures (OKA) - meetup.com/ohio-kayak-adventures/ For weekend to week-long trips, near and far
• Free to Roam Adventures - freetoroamadventures.com/
• She Travels Adventure Company - shetravels.com/
“Outdoor Rec had a one-overnight intro trip at Brecksville Reservation. They supplied the gear. It was reasonably priced. Perfect. But none of my friends were really interested. I stepped out on faith and registered. We learned how to select and pack our gear, the proper fit and adjustment of our backpacks, choosing a campsite and camp set-up, cooking tips and food storage. We did a short hike to our campsite with our loaded backpacks and got set up for the night.
“That intro backpacking trip led to three other trips with Outdoor Rec. I’ve gained so much knowledge from the staff. When planning my own trip with my friends, I reached out to Outdoor Rec, and they provided an introduction class just for us,” she says.
Adventuring has been great for Walton’s social life, too. She still hikes and backpacks with her tent mate from that first trip, including a venture in Maine’s Acadia National Park.
Other friends have joined her on backpacking trips in Pennsylvania’s Allegheny Mountains, West Virginia’s Dolly Sods, Virginia’s Grayson Highlands, Kentucky’s Red River Gorge, the Trans Catalina Trail on Catalina Island and Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies. She hopes to go backpacking in Denali, Alaska next.
Fall and winter are Walton’s favorite seasons for exploring. “I love the colors of autumn and that extra crispness in the air; a perfect time for backpacking. Winter hiking is amazing, especially after a fresh snow. The forest is quiet and sparkles. Put on some crampons or snowshoes, and hit the trails.”
With true retirement on the horizon, Walton says, “I don’t want to work til I’m ‘old’ and my body and mind are more beat down. What’s the point of working ‘til you can no longer enjoy your retirement? I want to do things now while I still can. I’m constantly inspired by all the seniors I see out there on the trails, still kickin’ major butt.”
“As you get older, there’s more pain involved in staying active. But it’s a clear use-it-or-lose-it proposition. Being in motion keeps your body and mind in shape. It doesn’t have to be difficult exercise to make a big difference. I just love being outdoors.”
— Jim Satrape
Jim Satrape and his wife Manon are both Outdoor Recreation volunteers who lend their expertise with canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, backpacking, backcountry orienteering and camping. Living in the Akron area, Satrape (66) is an engineer for Goodyear.
His introduction to the great outdoors came early, camping in a big canvas tent with his parents and siblings on road trips to Massachusetts, to visit relatives.
“I liked to hike and went to summer camp a couple times,” he says. “But my first real outdoor adventure was a 10-day canoe trip in Canada, doing traditional canoe camping.”
Much later, Satrape became a leader in his son’s Boy Scout troop and helped participants earn their Canoe Merit Badge. He took canoe classes to master proper techniques, then became certified as a canoe instructor through Cleveland Metroparks on Hinkley Lake in 2008. Soon afterward, he began volunteering with CM to help lead canoe trips and experiences.
Satrape met his current wife at a canoe clinic, learning freestyle or canoe dancing, where canoeists paddle to music. He has added stand-up paddleboarding to his water sports and has branched out on land with backpacking, bicycling, camping, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Manon is trying to get Jim to try downhill skiing and yoga.
“It helps that I have a wife who enjoys the same outdoor activities I do. Not everyone has a spouse who shares their love of the outdoors,” he says.
“People I work and socialize with tend to think I’m quite active and adventurous. But I also socialize with lots of active people in meet-up groups who are my age (in their 50s, 60s and 70s). They’re doing the same things I’m doing.
“I just love being outdoors in nature, looking at trees, flowers and birds. It challenges my mind to remember all their names and it’s exciting to run across something unusual… like a beaver, coyote or black rat snake… fun stuff like that.”
To those wary of leaping into an outdoor adventure, Satrape says, “When you’re new to it, you just have to get over your hesitations. Decide to try whatever activity and get back into nature, hiking or biking by yourself.
“For the social aspect, join a welcoming club or meet-up group. Eventually, you will connect with people and they become your friends.”
“Being outdoors in all seasons really helps my attitude. If I am unable to get outside for extended periods, I tend to get grouchy and grumpy.”
— Eoin Herlihy
A recent retiree, Eoin Herlihy is a man for all seasons… a sailor, backpacker, bicycler, cross-country skier, Trail Ambassador and a captain of Cleveland Metroparks eLCee2 Water Taxi on the Cuyahoga River in The Flats.
After growing up in Ireland, he went to Baldwin-Wallace College in Berea. Herlihy and his wife Debbie now live in North Royalton. He has always “realized that the Emerald Necklace and Cleveland Metroparks are an unbelievable asset and a great place to jog, ride and just explore. The ability to go for a hike, a walk or even participate in canoeing activities has always interested me.”
Herlihy discovered upcoming events and programs from CM’s weekly online newsletter, the Emerald Necklace Weekly.
One event that intrigued him was Outdoor Recreation’s
“I
have always loved the age I am. I never look back and wish I was 20 or 48 again, or whatever. I embrace
the year I’m in and what I’m about to become. What’s next for me?
I’m thinking about my next backpacking tour in October, another sailing adventure, or trying jet skiing. I want to keep enjoying myself and being active, or I will miss out. I want to live, and live fully.” — Carolyn Henry-Hurst
Carolyn Henry-Hurst has challenged herself to try paddling, sailing, paddling, backpacking and even more daring outdoor adventures over the years. At first, she tried Outdoor Rec programs to test them before bringing her urban students to participate. Then she kept coming back for more.
After growing up in the Virgin Islands, she says she “followed a man to Ohio” and they married in 1986. She and her husband both taught in the Cleveland schools before retirement. She also earned her podiatry degree, became an ordained pastor and has home-schooled her children and grandchildren.
Henry-Hurst’s first grandchild was starting kindergarten when Ohio instituted its third-grade reading guarantee.
“I wanted to ensure that our black and brown children would be successful with this. So I started a summer camp for kids in kindergarten through sixth grade from the Southeast Side to succeed, be engaged and have fun. In my search for free or inexpensive, fun activities, I discovered Cleveland Metroparks. So many doors, opportunities, fun, excitement and thrills opened up. We read all morning then spent our afternoons in the Metroparks and the public libraries… for seven years.”
Henry-Hurst continues, “I was doing my research in 2015, checking out these programs for myself. I’ve been doing it ever since. I started with sailing—captaining and skippering—with my family. Last month, I took my family
and friends on sailing trips… one a fast friend I met on an Outdoor Recreation kayaking program; we did a skyline sunset sailing tour.”
When it comes to trying new outdoor activities, HenryHurst’s motto is, Do it afraid.
“Whether I’m horseback riding, swimming in a lake or doing water sports, it’s all scary. But I made myself try it all. I don’t want to miss out on the fun. Now it’s your turn. Push yourself to just try. Show up. Go gradual. Then keep going back until you conquer it.”
Henry-Hurst and her husband recently went on a tour of Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic as part of her pursuit to visit at least 60 countries by the age of 60.
As she approaches this milestone, Carolyn says, “When I wake up, I start my day with an attitude of gratitude. I start my day dreaming of new adventures, having a ball, visualizing how I will spend my time, all with a motivational mindset.
“I love being in a space where I can sit in awe and wonderment out in nature. It’s so inspiring; it calms me and stills my nerves. We can explore and enjoy the greatest in the nation right here in Cleveland Metroparks. We need to take advantage of what we have.”
backpack cooking program. “I took the course and was amazed to learn about the tasty dishes that could be easily made on a backpacking trip.
“Then when I saw that Cleveland Metroparks was offering an Introduction to Sailing program, I decided to see if I could help. I am passionate about sailing and really enjoy helping others find out about my passion for Lake Erie and the joys to be found in sailing. Outdoor recreation is not just for warm-weather activities. I have participated in their cross-country skiing program and now occasionally assist with that activity, as well,” he says.
After Herlihy brought his wife to the backpacking cooking class, she joined him as an outdoor recreation volunteer. “We enjoy being Trail Ambassadors and being able to do this fun activity anywhere in the Metroparks system, either on foot or on our tandem, which sparks a lot of interest.”
Essentially, Herlihy is hooked on the outdoors. “Being active in nature clears the mind, keeps me physically active, and allows me to learn more and observe more every time I’m outside,” he says.
“Now that I have started my retirement, I am always looking for new activities to keep me busy and engaged. I am eager to do new things like kayaking and overnight backpacking, which I’ve thought would be fun for a long time. So Cleveland Metroparks has been a great resource for me and something that I want to give back to.”
Estelle Rodis-Brown is NEO Boomer magazine’s associate editor.
Presented by Mutsko Insurance Services
Are you eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid? If so, you may qualify for a specialized Medicare Advantage plan that works together with your Medicaid coverage. It is called a Dual Eligible Special Needs Advantage plan or D-SNP.
In addition to receiving Medicare and Medicaid benefits, D-SNP beneficiaries may be eligible for:
• Coverage of co-pays, co-insurances, deductibles, and some or all of Part B premiums
• Help with groceries, electricity, gas, water and internet service costs
• Transportation assistance
• Emergency Response System
• $0 copays for routine dental and hearing services not covered by Medicare or Medicaid with some plans including coverage for dentures, eyeglasses and hearing aids
• $0 copay for all covered prescriptions at innetwork pharmacies
Regardless of your age, if you have both Medicare and Medicaid, you are likely to qualify for a D-SNP Plan. An easy way to determine if you are dual eligible is to check if you have both a Medicare and Medicaid card.
Plans are available through many of the most respected insurance carriers in Ohio. We at Mutsko Insurance Services can provide details on D-SNP plans and help you find the plan that matches your doctors, hospitals and other care providers.
Like to learn more? Call Shireen Cain at 440255-5700 or email SCain@mutskoinsurance.com.
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent seven organizations that offer 84 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for information on your options.
As you age, your healthcare needs change—and you want a doctor who can help you address this stage of life.
At Spry Senior, everything we do is focused on older adults ages 58 and older. With physicians and a care team dedicated solely to the healthcare of mature adults, Spry Senior offers a unique perspective and level of expertise.
In addition to your physical health, we’re focused on your mental and social needs. From care for a chronic condition to keeping your mind sharp to finding a community of support and friendship, we’ve got you covered. We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare.
Spry offers extended appointment times because older adults have specific healthcare needs requiring time and attention. Physical changes are natural, including a slowing
metabolism, loss of endurance, decline in cognitive abilities, plus decreased bone density and muscle mass.
You might also be dealing with the long-term effects and impact of chronic health conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes. This is also a time of many life changes and transitions which can lead to anxiety, depression and social isolation. You need a provider that can understand and identify these concerns early, and discuss a treatment plan. That’s why an appointment usually lasts 30-45 minutes—longer for a firsttime visit. We see you at least 4-5 times a year to help you maintain your health.
We also provide a hub of services, including:
• Comprehensive care coordination
• Same-day appointments for urgent care
• On-site lab and point-of-care testing
• Free transportation to and from
appointments
• Fitness, educational and social activities
To learn more about Spry Senior, schedule a tour or attend a monthly open house at our Brook Park and Strongsville locations. Getting started is easy; schedule a new patient appointment, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 440-5926200 or schedule an appointment via MyChart at one of our locations in Solon, Brook Park or Strongsville.
Everything at Spry Senior is designed to keep your mind and body active and help you thrive. Whether we’re treating a chronic condition, holding fitness classes, providing transportation, helping you navigate the healthcare system, or hosting gatherings to build social connections, we’re focused on you.
By Marie Elium
hat’s new for 2025 in Medicare? Quite a bit, especially when it comes to prescription drugs.
You may have heard of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. It’s led to significant changes for Medicare participants, resulting in lower drug costs and budget-friendly ways to pay for outof-pocket expenses.
Medicare is now negotiating directly with drug manufacturers on select high-cost drugs (look for more of those next year). And, starting in 2025, it will put a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket costs for Part D Medicare prescription enrollees. In addition, a new feature called the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P), lets people split their out-of-pocket costs over the plan year, basically creating predictable, monthly installments to cover their prescription costs.
Other changes: People with Medicare Part D drug coverage will no longer pay a copayment or have a deductible applied for vaccines such as shingles, whooping cough and others recommended by the federal government’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
Another result of the Act is that Medicare plans can’t charge members more than $35 a month for their Part D-covered insulin, and there’s no deductible. Insulin pump users who get their equipment through Part B’s durable medical equipment benefit also won’t pay more than $35 monthly for their insulin.
Medicare Part B plan members may find themselves with lower coinsurance costs for some drugs if their prices have increased higher than the rate of inflation, according to the Medicare website, medicare.gov.
One more change, effective in 2024 and continuing forward, relates to the Extra Help subsidy for low-income people who earn less than 150 percent of the federal poverty level. The subsidy helps pay for Part D prescription drugs; an expansion to the program capped generic drugs at $4.50 and brandname drugs at $11.20.
To qualify, a single person can’t have a monthly income over $1,903 and resources (cash, IRAs, investments) that don’t exceed $17,220. The limit for a married couple is $2,575 monthly income and $34,360 in resources.
Learn more at medicare.gov.
By Bill DeMarco
Retirement is essential, but where do you start? First, estimate how much income you’ll need to support your retirement lifestyle. This task is challenging because retirement planning is not an exact science, and your needs will vary based on your goals and several other factors.
A common approach is to estimate your desired annual retirement income as a percentage of your current income, often ranging from 60% to 90% or more. This method is simple and based on the idea that your current income supports your present lifestyle. By reducing it slightly, accounting for expenses you’ll no longer have (like payroll taxes), you might sustain a similar lifestyle in retirement. However, this approach might not suit everyone’s needs. If you plan to travel extensively or have other significant expenses in retirement, you might need 100% or more of your current income. It’s helpful to use this percentage as a starting point, but it’s crucial to review your current expenses and consider how they will change over time as you transition into retirement.
Your retirement income should be enough to cover your expenses. Estimating these expenses can be challenging, especially if retirement is far off. Here are some common retirement expenses to consider:
• Basic Needs: Food, clothing, housing (rent/mortgage, property taxes, insurance), utilities and transportation.
•Insurance and Health: Medical, dental, life, disability, longterm care insurance, and out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
• Taxes and Debt: Income taxes, capital gains taxes and debt payments.
• Education: College expenses for children or grandchildren.
• Gifts and Savings: Charitable donations, personal gifts and contributions to investment accounts.
• Recreation: Travel, dining out, hobbies and leisure activities.
• Needs: Costs for assisted living, nursing homes or in-home care.
• Miscellaneous: Personal grooming, pets and memberships.
Remember that the cost of living will rise over time, and your retirement expenses may change yearly. For instance, you might pay off your mortgage or children’s education early in retirement, but healthcare costs might increase as you age. To protect against these variables, it’s wise to build a cushion into your estimates. Consulting a financial professional can help ensure your projections are realistic.
Determining when you’ll retire is crucial in estimating your retirement needs. The earlier you retire, the more years of income you’ll need. This decision depends on your goals and financial situation. Retiring at 50 might be appealing, especially if you’re financially secure, but it will require significantly more funds than retiring at 65.
Life expectancy is another critical factor in determining how long you’ll need retirement income. While no one can predict exactly how long they’ll live, you can use tools like government statistics, life insurance tables, or life expectancy calculators for a reasonable estimate. These estimates consider factors like age, gender, health and family history. Given the trend of increasing life expectancies, it’s wise to plan for a longer retirement.
After estimating your retirement income needs, assess your readiness. Consider what sources of income will be available, such as:
• Employer Pensions: Monthly benefits from a traditional pension.
• Social Security: Estimate your benefits through the Social Security Administration’s website.
• Plans and Investments: 401(k)s, IRAs, annuities, and other investments.
• Part-Time Work: Income from working during retirement. The income you receive will depend on factors like how much you invest and the rate of return.
If your estimated income falls short of what you need, there are steps you can take to bridge the gap:
• Cut Current Expenses: Save more for retirement by reducing current spending.
• Adjust Investments: Shift to assets with higher growth potential, keeping in mind the risks.
• Reevaluate Retirement Goals: Consider lowering your expectations for retirement to reduce needed income.
• Work Part-Time: Supplement your retirement income with a part-time job.
• Delay Retirement: Postpone retirement for a few more years to save more.
A financial professional can help tailor a plan that meets your needs and ensures a comfortable retirement.
Bill DeMarco is an investment advisor representative with A&M Financial Group in Westlake. You can reach him at 440-249-0397, ext. 106 or go to amfinancialgroup.com. Advisory Services are offered through AMFG Wealth Management LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor. Note: You should not decide which investment options are appropriate for you based on tax considerations alone. Nor should you decide when (or if) to sell an asset solely based on the tax consequence. A financial or tax professional can help you decide what choices are right for your specific situation.
By Meg Pauken
Fall is the perfect time for a bucket list trip. Many popular destinations are less crowded and rates are often lower during the season. Last October, my husband and I went on an amazing trip to Italy. We relaxed and enjoyed it because we planned for worst-case scenarios. In our case, they never happened, but if they had, we were ready. Here is how we planned, and what I recommend to friends and clients.
What ifs & more. Consider scenarios in which you might need assistance: extended travel delays caused by weather or labor strikes, a health emergency while traveling, or an emergency while you are away, such as tornado or flood damage to your home. We have had friends encounter all of these. You may have special circumstances unique to you that require extra planning, such as care for an elderly relative, farm animals, or a business.
Leave a trail of breadcrumbs for close friends and family. This should include the airline and flight numbers, travel itinerary, and tour company or hotel information. Even with cell phones everywhere, emergencies happen and phones can get lost or damaged. If your family needs to reach you, make sure they can.
Review (and update, if necessary) key legal documents. Make sure that your general power of attorney and healthcare power of attorney are up to date with current contact information.
If you are leaving young children with a caregiver, does that person have written authority to obtain medical care for them? This should include the ability to obtain medical information, as well as consent to care.
Is your traveling companion your healthcare agent? If not, you may wish to consider this in case something happens while you are traveling and you are temporarily unable to make medical care decisions.
Do both general and healthcare powers of attorney identify a backup agent other than your traveling companion? This is important in case you are involved in a common accident, or help is needed at home while you are away. Does your agent have all the powers they might need to take care of business for you while you are away? For example, if a tree falls on your roof, is your agent authorized to contact your insurance agent and arrange for repairs? If your return is delayed, is your agent authorized to pick up your pet or arrange for extended care?
Have you left information in an accessible way for your agents? Give them the location of your key personal information, like homeowners insurance and health insurance.
Make copies. Give copies of your powers of attorney to your agents. We also carry copies of ours on a small jump drive when we are traveling, in case we need them while we are away. Get a paper copy of the necessary prescriptions from your doctor and bring them with you. If luggage is lost, medications spill or travel delays leave you short, you will be able to obtain refills.
Leave a key. Leave a key to your home and the code for your security system with a trusted friend, family member, or your power of attorney. If a storm causes damage or an extended power outage, or if your return is delayed for some reason, someone may need access. It is also a good idea to provide keys to cars in the garage for the same reason.
With a little extra thought and planning, your next “bucket list” trip will be even more relaxing because you will have fewer worries while away.
Meg Pauken is an attorney and owner of Pauken Legal Services in Chagrin Falls. She specializes in estate planning, elder law and special needs planning. You can reach her at paukenlegal. com or 440-468-0003.
Presented By Concord Reserve
f a senior living community is part of your retirement plan, you’ll want to get on their waiting list as soon as possible. Here’s everything you need to keep in mind when joining a senior living waitlist.
A waitlist allows you to have a place in the queue as different home openings become available. There are many benefits to joining a senior living waitlist besides having a plan in place while the demand is high. You’ll have the opportunity to meet your future neighbors, try out the community perks, and start your downsizing process.
Every community has its waitlist policies and procedures. Prospective residents fill out an application and pay a fee to get on the waitlist, and priority is then based on application dates, accommodation selection, and level of care needed. While on the waitlist, prospective residents keep in touch with the community on their health or care requirements. If you’ve already toured and chosen a senior living community as
a part of your retirement planning, you’re in great shape. There are many things you can do while on the waitlist beyond downsizing your current home. Now’s the time to get involved in your future community; try their dining and amenities and take a look at the resident handbook.
As we get older, it’s important to plan for our future care. At Concord Reserve, you’ll receive resources and support to help you age well. Schedule your tour today to enjoy the best years of your life.
Presented by Greater Cleveland Volunteers
Loneliness and isolation among older adults are on the rise, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Nearly one in four adults 65 and older are socially isolated. Loneliness contributes to a higher risk of health issues, including dementia.
Greater Cleveland Volunteers has a program to combat the social isolation that some older adults experience. The Chat Pals program pairs volunteers with participants through weekly phone or video calls. Greater Cleveland Volunteers takes great care in matching up volunteers (18+) with participants (55+), based on their interests and experiences.
More than a weekly wellness check-in, Chat Pals provides the foundation for a genuine friendship, which is the ultimate goal. Many participants and volunteers have developed friendships independent of the program.
As many volunteers have discovered, it’s not only the participant who
reaps the rewards of the relationship. Volunteers also benefit from making friends with the participants, who are often from an older generation. As many differences as there are between Baby Boomers and Gen X-ers, Millennials, and younger, those differences often create genuine interest between people and budding friendships.
Chat Pals is always taking applications for new participants and volunteers. Just an hour a week is all it takes for a brighter day for people on both sides of the phone. For more information, visit the Greater Cleveland Volunteers website at greaterclevelandvolunteers. org, or call the Chat Pals program coordinator, Kirsten Riley, 216-3919500, extension 2124.
Home Instead CLE is honored to extend our compassionate care to the VA community, offering personalized in-home services tailored to the unique needs of veterans and their families.
As a VA-accredited provider, we’re dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for those who have served our country. Our professional caregivers are committed to delivering reliable support that fosters independence, dignity and comfort for our cherished veterans in the community.
BOOK CLUB
Join this interactive book club on the third Tuesday of the month. 2:30 p.m., Orange Senior Center, 32205 Chagrin Blvd., Pepper Pike, orangerec.com. FREE
KENT SILENT BOOK CLUB
Bring a good book and read it in companionable silence, then stay and socialize. Third Thursdays. 2 p.m., The Cleveland Bagel Cafe, 436 E. Main St., Kent, kentfreelibrary.org. FREE
MONDAYS
Adult Acting: The Basics . Classical and contemporary techniques are explored in polishing craft along with keys to unlocking scripts and bringing them to the stage. 11/412/9. Beck Center for the Arts, 17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, beckcenter. org . $144
Beginning Mahjong. Hands-on learning with other players. 10 a.m.-noon, Lyndhurst Community Center, 1341 Parview Dr., communitypartnershiponaging.org
TUESDAYS
Realism in Watercolor. Learn to paint the fruit that looks good enough to eat or a flower you can
almost smell. 11/19-12/17, 4-6 p.m. Bay Arts, 28795 Lake Road, Bay Village, bayarts.net. $200
Adult Ballroom. Perfect introduction to ballroom dancing including American Smooth, American Rhythm and Latin social dances. 10/22-12/3, 6:30-7:15 p.m. BW Community Arts School, 611 W. Bagley Road, Berea, community.bw.edu. $95
WEDNESDAYS
The Healthy Eating Lifestyle Learn to live a non-fad diet lifestyle. 9/18-10/23, 12:30-1:50 p.m. Institute for Learning in Retirement, Baldwin Wallace University, Helwig Whistle Stop, 599 W. Bagley Road, Berea, ilrbw.org. $25
FRIDAYS
Encore 55+ Learning: Collage Class. Learn various types of collage and the background history for each. 9/20-11/1, 10-10:50 a.m. Cuyahoga Community College, 4250 Richmond Road, Highland Hills, tri-c.edu. $30
10/15
Creative Aging Institute: Papermaking & Collage. Designed exclusively for adults 55+, this program offers in-depth, quality art-making experiences taught by contemporary artists. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., akronartmuseum.org. $5
10/17
Wellness Through Art: Nature Mandala. De-stress while exploring your creativity. 6:30-7:45 p.m., Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron, akronartworks.com. $27.50
10/19
Bookmaking Workshop. Learn about different bookmaking techniques and create your own small sketchbook or journal. 10 a.m.-noon, Fairmount Center for the Arts, 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty, fairmountcenter.org. $40
Scratchboard Techniques. Explore advanced scratchboard techniques and tools and create an 8” x 10” image of a bird. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Valley Art Center, 155 Bell St., Chagrin Falls, valleyartcenter.org. $80
TUESDAYS
Tokusatsu Club. Learn about, watch, and discuss Japanese Tokusatsu films and television shows like Ultraman, Godzilla, and more. Fourth Tuesdays through 11/26 at 6 p.m. Amherst Public Library, 221 Spring St., amherstpubliclibrary.org. FREE
WEDNESDAYS
Castaways. Meet with fellow fiber artists to work on projects and get ideas. Second and fourth Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. Mentoron-the-Lake Branch Library, 5642 Andrews Road, mentorpl.org. FREE
Riverinos. Book discussions and guest speakers on the third Wednesday of each month. 7-8:30 p.m. Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, rrpl.org. FREE
Writers Group. Engage in writing exercises, peer critiques and helpful instruction on your writing projects. 10/2 and 11/6. 6-7 p.m., Avon Branch Library, 37485 Harvest Drive, lorainpubliclibrary.org. FREE
Afternoon Tea Club. 1:30 p.m. Bring your own tea cup and explore the world of tea and taste test. 9/25, 10/30 & 11/27. Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, mcdl.info. FREE
THURSDAYS
Invasive Plant Removal Drop-In. Help improve soil quality, restore native plants and create better habitats for wildlife. Second and fourth Thursdays, 1-3:30 p.m. Conservancy for CVNP, 1403 W. Hines Hill Road, Peninsula, conservancyforcvnp.org FREE
FRIDAYS
Renaissance Collage Club. Monthly sessions to practice collage techniques and projects. 10/11 & 11/8. 3:30-5 p.m. Windham Branch Library, 9005 Wilverne Drive, portagelibrary.org. FREE
SATURDAYS
Woodcarvers Club. Second and fourth Saturdays each month. 9:30 a.m.-noon. The Wilderness Center, 9877 Alabama Ave. SW, Wilmot, wildernesscenter.org. FREE
MONDAYS
Never Miss Monday Walking Club. Get up, get moving and take a stroll around the library grounds. Through 10/28, 5:15-5:45 p.m. Memorial Nottingham Branch Library, 17109 Lake Shore Blvd., Cleveland, cpl. org. FREE
TUESDAYS
Geauga Walkers. Join other active seniors on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month for hikes. 1-2:30 p.m., geaugaparkdistrict.org. FREE
Walkabout Tremont. Feed your creative side with art vendors, live music, food, and more. Second Friday of each month. 5-10 p.m., 2406 Professor Ave., thisiscleveland.com. FREE
EXHIBIT OPENS OCT. 30
Presented by Maltz Museum
Exhibit DEGENERATE! Hitler’s War on Modern Art explores how artwork was used as propaganda to sway public opinion by the Nazi party.
Part history, part art show, the exhibition features famous art labeled “degenerate” by the regime, including works by world-renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Wassily Kandinsky, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, George Grosz and more.
The exhibition will be on view at the Maltz Museum from October 30 through April 20. For tickets, visit maltzmuseum.org.
Pickleball. Designed for players with limited experience. Class will consist of drills, strategy, games and more. 9-10 a.m. 10/1-10/29, 11/5-11/26 and 12/3-12/17. Mentor Community Recreation Ctr., 6000 Heisley Road, cityofmentor.com. $36-60
TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS
Movin’ and Groovin: Aurora Seniors. Move to upbeat music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscle strength, range of motion and balance. Tuesday at noon, Thursdays at 11:30 a.m., 129 W. Pioneer Trail, Aurora, auroraoh.com. $2
9/19
Rose Garden Community WorkDay. All skill levels
are welcome to help cultivate the beauty of this historic garden. 8:3010:30 a.m., Lakeview Park, 1800 W. Erie Ave., Lorain, loraincountymetroparks.com
9/21-22
Wild Outdoor Women Weekend. From crafts to archery and the thrilling annual WOW Dash, there’s something for everyone! 10 a.m. 9/21 through 1 p.m. 9/22, Walborn Reservoir, 11324 Price St. NE, Alliance, starkparks.com. $40-45
9/29
Early Autumn Canoe Float. Paddle along the peaceful shores of Bass Lake and enjoy the plants and animals that call it home. 1-3 p.m., 11445 Lakeview Road, Munson
Twp., geaugaparkdistrict. org. FREE
10/2
Fall Colors Hike. Discover why the leaves change colors and what other plants and animals are doing to get ready for winter. 5:30 p.m., Chapin Forest Reservation, Kirtland, lakemetroparks. com. FREE
10/8
Senior Strides. Make new friends and get exercise at the same time. 10-11 a.m., Sharon Nature Preserve, 6734 State Road, Sharon Twp., medinacountyparks. com. FREE
10/10
Senior Cycling. Gather to socialize and determine the route, distance and pace before rolling out. 10 a.m.-noon, Bike & Hike Trail, Barlow Lot, 331 Barlow Road, Hudson, summitmetroparks.org FREE
SATURDAYS
Playhouse Square Public Tours. Playhouse Square is the largest theater restoration project in the world. Find out how these gems were saved from the wrecking ball. Third Saturday of each month. 10-11:30 a.m., 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org. FREE
9/20-28
Erma Bombeck: At Wit’s End. Join us for an evening of laughter, nostalgia and genuine insight into the life of one of America’s most cherished humorists. Chagrin Valley Little
Theatre, 40 River Street, Chagrin Falls, cvlt.org $20-23
10/1
Senior Day at the Akron Art Museum. Adults 55 and older are invited to visit with representatives from health care, government, cultural institutions, and service agencies. 1 South High St., akronartmuseum. org. FREE
10/3-20
Cabaret. In a Berlin nightclub, at the end of the 1920s, a garish Master of Ceremonies welcomes the audience and assures them they will forget all their troubles at the Cabaret. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron, weathervaneplayhouse. com. $16-36
10/8
Cleveland Music Institute of Music Orchestra Concert. Guest Conductor, Jake Taniguchi. 7:30 p.m., Severance Music Center, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, clevelandorchestra.com FREE
10/12-11/3
What the Constitution Means to Me. Playwright Heidi Schreck’s play breathes new life into the U.S. Constitution and imagines how it can shape the next generation of Americans. Outcalt Theatre at Cleveland Playhouse, 1407 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, playhousesquare.org $45-85
10/16
The Carol King & James Taylor Story Featuring passionate renditions of Fire and Rain, Sweet Baby
James, I Feel the Earth Move, Natural Woman, You’ve Got a Friend, and many more. 6:30 p.m., the Kent Stage, 175 East Main St., kentstage.org. $22-32
10/17
Frankie Avalon. Get ready to get sent to Venus because the legendary Frankie Avalon is coming to town! 7:30 p.m., The University of Akron, E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron, uakron.edu.ej. $44+
Chamber Music in the Galleries. Featuring young artists from the Cleveland Institute of Music’s guitar studio. The Reinberger Gallery, 212 Baroque Painting and Sculpture, Cleveland, clevelandart.org. FREE
11/2
Home Movie Day at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Annual celebration of amateur filmmaking and a celebration of our local music community and the history of the Northeast Ohio music scene. 2-5 p.m., 1100 E. 9th St. Cleveland, rockhall.com. FREE
11/3
Musical Mix & Mingle. Join this social afternoon of chamber music-making, open to strings, winds and piano. 1:30-4:30 p.m., The Music Settlement - University Circle, 11125 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, themusicsettlement.org. $35
WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY
The National Park Scenic Excursion. Take in the beauty and wonders while meandering through miles of nature and cityscapes in
a vintage rail car. Through 10/27. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Akron and Peninsula, cvsr.org. $18-39
THROUGH 9/30
1,000 Paper Cranes. Celebrate the International Day of Peace and the story of Sadako Sasaki by making origami paper cranes. Rocky River Public Library, 1600 Hampton Road, rrpl.org. FREE
Through Mid-October
Pick Your Own Apples. Pick some great Ohio apples and take a wagon ride.10 a.m.5 p.m., Patterson Farms, 8765 Mulberry Road, Chesterland, pattersonfarm.com
THROUGH 10/31
Return of the Butterflies. See butterflies actively searching for nectar as a food source and exploring their surroundings. Take part in butterfly releases each afternoon at 2 p.m., Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., holdenfg.org. $13-19
9/20-22
Headlands Birding Festival. Join museum experts and partners as we celebrate the amazing diversity of birds in the Headlands/Mentor Marsh region. Headlands Beach State Park and Mentor Marsh State Nature Preserve, cmnh.org
9/21-22
Apple Harvest Weekend
Witness many traditional harvest activities and discover how apple butter and cider are made. 9 a.m.5 p.m., Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com
9/29
Migrating Monarchs: Butterfly Tag-and-Release Event. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30-1:30 p.m., Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, stanhywet.org
10/5-6
Hale Farm Harvest Festival. Experience the seasonal work of a 19th-Century farm, like cider pressing and fermentation. 10/7-8, 10 to 5 p.m., 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, wrhs.org
10/10
Boomer Bash EAST in Margaritaville
Tropical island-style live entertainment with an island attitude, blending island jazz, easy-listening tunes plus island-style dance music. Sketch artist, photo booth, small bites, raffles, vendor tables and more. 4-6 p.m., Signature of Solon, 39000 Signature Dr., northeastohioboomer.com
10/19
Walk to End Alzheimer’s. This inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to join the fight against the disease. 9 a.m., Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, act.alz.org/cleveland
11/3
First People’s Day. Delve into the unique history of Northeast Ohio nature cultures with talks, hikes and demonstrations. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Rocky River Nature Center, 24000 Valley Pkwy., North Olmsted, clevelandmetroparks.com. FREE
THURSDAYS
University Hospital
HOT Health Topics. Be informed on hot topics for seniors for yourself or a loved one. 9/26, 10/24, 11/21 & 12/19. 1:30 p.m., Ehrnfelt Recreation & Senior Center, 18100 Royalton
Road, Strongsville, ehrnfeltrecreationcenter. com. FREE
9/24
Legally Protecting Your Assets in Medical Emergencies. Elder law attorney Jaclyn Palumbo will discuss Medicaid, probate, and estate planning. 2-3 p.m., Richfield Branch Library, 3761 S. Grant St., akronlibrary.org. FREE
9/26
Online Safety. Learn “beyond the basics” strategies for staying safe online and protecting your privacy on a computer or mobile device. 2-3:30 p.m., Lee Road Branch Library, 2345 Lee Road, Cleveland Hts., heightslibrary.org. FREE
9/30
Freudian Strips: A History of Comics and Mental Health. Explore the fascinating connection between comic books and mental health. 7-8 p.m., Parma Heights Branch Library, 6206 Pearl Rd, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE
How to Train for a 5K. Join Carolyn S. of Second Sole to learn how to train for walking or running a 5K. 6-7 p.m. Mentor Public Library, 8215 Mentor Ave., mentorpl.org. FREE
10/17
Defying Gravity. Learn the three stages of falls and how to be prepared. 2-3 p.m., Solon Senior Center Game Room, 35000 Portz Pkwy., solonohio.org. FREE
10/21 & 11/18
The Financial Fatigue of Caregiving: Virtual. Learn practical strategies and resources to help you navigate these challenges effectively. Noon-1 p.m., Benjamin Rose, benrose.org
10/22
Brown Bag Lunch Series at the Massillon Museum. Ally Carlson: “McKinley Monument: A Tribute to a Fallen President.” 12:10 p.m., 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon, massillonmuseum.org. FREE
10/24
Author Series: Jenna Bush Hager. Hager discusses her work and books, including Everything Beautiful in Its Time, which pays homage to her beloved grandparents. 6:30 p.m., Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. North, Canton, cantonpalacetheatre.org. FREE
11/12
Key Steps to Returning to Work After an Extended Break. Learn helpful strategies that can help you transition back into the world of work successfully. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Independence Branch Library, 6361 Selig Drive, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE
Environmentally Speaking: Electric Vehicles 101. Get your questions answered and learn more about electric vehicles. 7-8 p.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., alpl.org FREE
By Mike Olszewski
If you’ve lived in Northeast Ohio for any length of time, chances are, you’ve crossed paths with Gary Lewis. He had a string of hits with his band The Playboys and is a favorite on the nostalgia circuit. Plus, when Gary was approached about performing at the Sonny Geraci benefit a few years ago, he was one of the first to say, “Count Me In.” (Gary’s fans will get that reference.) He’s a good guy.
No one can deny that his dad, Jerry Lewis, had an impressive stage, film and TV career. But he was concerned about how he would be remembered. Many of his most memorable roles were slapstick comedy. The stuff he did with Dean Martin, and his solo work in “The Delicate Delinquent,” “Cinderfella,” “The Nutty Professor,” and more stand the test of time.
Lewis set the template for later comedians, notably Jim Carrey, but he wanted to be known for more. He was opinionated, confrontational, cranky and controversial. Lewis wanted to
prove he could be a dramatic actor, but he recognized that his first attempt was a mistake: the 1972 film, “The Day the Clown Cried.” It’s been out of public view for years, but apparently, that’s about to change.
The premise is horrifying and takes place during World War II. A has-been clown played by Lewis (and closely resembling Emmet Kelley) is fired from his circus and finds himself in a concentration camp for mocking Hitler. His character entertains children and leads them like the Pied Piper to their deaths.
Lewis said in his autobiography the role “scared the hell out of me.”
Disputes over rights kept the film from being distributed and an embarrassed Lewis didn’t want it to be seen until years after his death, and only for research. That time has arrived.
Lewis’ estate reportedly gave a copy of the film to the Library of Congress with instructions not to screen it until
2024. I have not seen the entire film, but when you travel the convention circuit, you make contacts. I saw about half an hour of the movie; I have no intention of seeing more.
I watch movies to be inspired, informed or entertained, and this film accomplishes none of that. Scholars and friends of Lewis’ who saw the entire film say you don’t miss much, from the horrific storyline to his performance. One of Lewis’ lines in the movie is, “I don’t like people laughing at me…but, oh, how I hate when they don’t.”
Lewis had a dramatic role in the 1982 film, “The King of Comedy,“ but I prefer remembering him for making people laugh. I am anti-censorship but pro-common sense. If you choose to see “The Day the Clown Cried,” that’s your right; don’t say I didn’t warn you. However, the film accomplished something I never expected: it made me agree with Jerry Lewis. It scared the hell out of me.
Mike Olszewski is a veteran award-winning radio, TV and print journalist. Contact him at janmike1978@gmail.com.
Last issue, I asked which of the hippie comic strip trio, the Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers, was from Cleveland. It was Fat Freddy, and the reason may be that cartoonist Gilbert Shelton lived in Cleveland for a brief time. His friend Robert Crumb suggested he try for a job at American Greetings. He didn’t get it but went on to do quite well with posters, comics, and similar works.
For next time, this actress grew up in Lakewood and was best known for her role in a TV series about a character who could fly. Who is she?
