Sassy • Spirited • Successful
Co-editors Jennifer Ruple and Mary Helen Darah
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel, read only one page.” - St. Augustine Boomers & Beyond hits the road with our inaugural travel issue. If you haven’t explored Put-in-Bay recently, hop aboard the Jet Express and discover more than beer and babes (pg. 3). Are you a first time cruiser? Theresa Russell offers some helpful tips before you set sail (pg. 6). If you’d rather stay closer to home, consider a day trip to Dublin, Ohio (pg. 8). For a getaway near or far, make sure to review the guidelines for a stress-free vacation (pg. 10). What’s a road trip without tunes? Robert Alexander offers up a playlist to “get your motor running” (pg. 11). Protect your money. Jeff Bucher shares 10 things that you should never travel with (pg. 13). Whether you’re traveling by plane, train or automobile, we have the perfect book to keep you entertained (pg. 15). We wish you happy, safe travels this summer, and in the words of Confucius, “Wherever you go, go with all your heart.”
sas•sy
spir•it•ed
suc•cess•ful
adjective very stylish; confident and energetic
adjective full of courage or energy; very lively or determined
adjective having the correct or desired result; ending in success having achieved wealth, respect, or fame
BOOMERS Inside & Beyond Editors Mary Helen Darah Jennifer Ruple Boomer Consultant Sharon Lange Contributing Writers Robert Alexander, Jeff Bucher, Mary Helen Darah, Jennifer Ruple, Theresa Russell and Sue Schafer Distribution Donald Frazier, Nancy Jomantas and Paul Jomantas Layout and Design Elissa Cary Boom Your Business with Advertising boomersandbeyond2014@gmail.com 419-824-0100 On The Web sylvaniaadvantage.com/boomers-beyond facebook.com/ Boomers Hangout 5657 N. Main St. #1, Sylvania, Ohio 43560
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• Cruise control
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• Day trip to Dublin
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• Back to the bay
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• Getaway guidelines • Crank up the tunes
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• Crossword fun • Protect your $$$$$ • Books for boomers • It’s a date
The Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial towers over The Keys Restaurant on South Bass Island, Ohio.
ON THE COVER
BOOMERS
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Plates and Places
Back to the Bay By Jennifer Ruple
It’s funny how perceptions can change over Jennifer Ruple time. Could it really have been two decades since we had visited Put-in-Bay, the Key West of the North as it’s nicknamed? It had been at least that long, considering we’ve been married for 20 years. As youngsters, we knew South Bass Island, aka Put-in-Bay, to be the place to escape the daily grind of work, get away with friends on a Saturday, and get a little crazy, or a lot crazy I should say. With this in mind, I was leery to report on the island for a baby boomer publication. We opted to make the trip on a Thursday, the better weather choice, and hoped there would be less of a crowd. Getting there is half the fun The quickest way to the bay is the Jet Express. Board at Port Clinton, sit on the top level for the best view, and enjoy the approximately 30-minute boat ride to the island. If you plan on visiting on a day other than a Saturday, take advantage of the Jet and Cart for Two offer, which includes: two adult round-trip tickets and a two-seater golf cart JULY 2017
A view of the harbor from Rita’s Cantina at The Boardwalk at Put-in-Bay.
to zip around in when you get there, which I highly recommend so you can explore the entire island. There are some exclusions to the offer though … it’s not valid the day of purchase so book in advance, on Saturdays or on blackout dates. For details, visit jet-express.com.
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A blast from the past We arrived on the island around noon, picked up our golf cart, which was an extremely easy process and no lines. As we drove around, we were pleasantly surprised at how pretty the island looked with flowers blooming everywhere. Next, we strolled around the downtown area and visited old haunts such as the historic Round House bar. The 1873 establishment is known for its mural-painted plaster walls, overhead canopy, live
The Round House Bar
October 1. From the monument, we headed northwest along the coast and enjoyed the ride while taking in the scenery of quaint cottages and beautiful homes situated just feet from the water. Also along our self-guided tour, we came across Heineman’s Winery and South Bass Island State Park beach and campgrounds. And, for the adventurous, we found a myriad of services on the island that offer activities such as charter fishing, parasailing, jet skiing, tubing and paddle boarding.
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The Jet Express in Port Clinton, Ohio
entertainment and buckets of beer. The last time we were there, it was wall-to-wall partygoers spilling drinks all over each other. However, this time and being a Thursday afternoon, there were a few dozen folks enjoying some beer and great live music. A bite to eat After our walk, it was time for lunch. There is no shortage of burgers and fries on the island; however, we were in the mood for something with more Florida flair. We chose The Keys Restaurant, which not only afforded us gorgeous views of the lake and harbor but a Caribbean-style menu with dishes such as Blackened Mahi Tacos, Lobster Salad Sliders and Chicken Teriyaki and Veggies. Taking in the scenery Following lunch, we hopped on our golf cart and set out to see what else there was on this 2 x 4-mile island. Our first stop was the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. Unfortunately, the observation deck, rotunda, and plazas are closed in 2017 for cleaning and repairs; however, the visitor’s center is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily until
Teriyaki Chicken at The Keys Restaurant
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A fond farewell Prior to our departure for home, we wrapped up our island excursion with tropical cocktails from Rita’s Cantina at The Boardwalk. Put-in-Bay was certainly different this time around for us in a very good way, providing us with that relaxing, island getaway we were hoping for.
Heineman Winery
Watercraft rentals
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Cruise Control
Tips for first timers
By Theresa Russell Intrigued by cruising? Don't Mexico know where to start? There’s more to cruising than simply booking a cabin and showing up at the pier. Here are some tips to help you make your first cruise a great one: • Set a budget for your cruise adventure and then get in touch with a good cruise travel agent. Your agent will help you choose a cruise that suits your needs. Choosing the wrong cruise, cabin or itinerary can negatively influence your vacation as can traveling without insurance. worrying if your flight will be delayed or • Plan to arrive the day before your cruise cancelled due to bad weather, mechanical, crew departs. Yes, it will be an extra expense for the and other issues. overnight, but that far outweighs the stress of • When you arrive at the port, be sure that you are going to the correct terminal. Ports like Miami and Fort Lauderdale have multiple ships sailing everyday. • Be sure that your luggage is tagged and you have your documents ready at the terminal. You will go through security like you do at the airport; open liquids will be confiscated. Check with your cruise line for its policy for bringing water or wine on board. • Prior to boarding, you may be able to choose dining times, shows and shore excursions. Of course, you may also like to wait to see what you feel like doing once on board. • Once you are checked in, you will be given a number which indicates your boarding group. Wait patiently and go when your number is called. Have your keycard ready for swiping as
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BOOMERS
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Santorini
you board. Always keep your keycard with you and keep it safe. It is not only your room key, but also your onboard credit system. Speaking of your keycard, if you are using a debit card to pay for your onboard expenses, remember that a certain amount will be held per day and not released for several days. • When you board, you may be offered a fancy welcome drink in a special glass. These are not complimentary, so be aware before you grab one and take a sip. • Your stateroom will likely be unavailable when you board. Your luggage will arrive several hours after boarding, so be sure that you keep important items with you. If you are thinking of going to the pool, be sure to keep your bathing suit and pool items in a carry-on bag. • Lunch will be available in the buffet at the top of the ship. Everybody goes to the buffet and crew often direct guests to the buffet, knowing how popular it is. But, being popular also means it will be crowded and sometimes hectic. Have a more relaxed boarding lunch experience by going to the main dining room, which is always complimentary. • About a half-hour before scheduled sailing time, there will be a safety drill known as a muster drill. All services on the ship will close down for this mandatory drill. Be sure to be on time. Your muster drill station will be noted on the door in your room (your room will be ready
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by this time) and usually on your keycard. The crew will take attendance. • A daily service fee is either pre-paid or added to your onboard account. No need to carry cash for tips. Some people tip extra on top of the daily service fee to reward extraordinary service. • Read the terms and conditions of the cruise line to avoid misunderstandings if changes occur. Enjoy, explore and experience a great vacation at
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Getaway Guidelines from AAA Bill Murray once said, “You can handle just about anything that comes at you out on the road with a believable grin, common sense and whiskey.” Perhaps there is some truth to that statement. However, we offer some getaway guidelines from Patty Hicks, Regional Travel Sales Manager at AAA Club Alliance, for safe, stress-free travel.
• Book and travel with a reputable agency or supplier. There are lots of scams out there. If the price sounds too good to be true … it probably is. • Travel with extra medication in case of delays or cancelled flights. • Keep all medication with you in a carry-on bag. • Bring copies of your medication scripts, in case they need to be replaced or refilled. • If possible, have medication in the original bottles. This is not always easy to do if you order meds online and if they are in large bottles. • Carry a card with you that lists every medication you take, the dosage and your doctor’s name. This helps if you become incapacitated.
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• Made sure the hotel offers an in-room refrigerator for medications such as insulin. • Alert the front desk if you do have insulin in the fridge, so that the housekeeping staff does not discard any important medication. • If you are traveling with a group, make sure the group leader is aware of any medical conditions or limitations. • Purchase travel insurance. • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. • Seniors can be targeted by pickpockets. Gentlemen should keep their wallets in their front pockets. Ladies should keep a purse in front of them. • AAA Travel Stores and other retailers offer “Anti-Theft” purses with “slash-resistant” straps, RFID Blocking slots and compartments that lock to ward off thieves. • Be aware of your surroundings and travel with others for safety and fun.
BOOMERS
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Rock Matters
Crank it up with tunes worth driving for
By Robert Alexander My answer for summer college, I’d make numerous boredom has always been the trips to the Jersey Shore or to same ... hit the road. As a teen, the Newport Folk Festival. I would walk out the door and As a father, there were family hitchhike somewhere, camping trips to Canada, anywhere. If Dylan could Maine, Wyoming and jump a freight train and head Colorado. south out of Hibbing, Even today, we pack up the Minnesota or visit Woody RV and head to Gulf Shores, Guthrie in a New York Alabama or Lake Champlain hospital, I could certainly hobo in Vermont. Great adventures around the east coast. await when you leave it all With no money and “No behind and take to the Particular Place to Go,” but highway. So, “get your motor with my copy of Kerouac's running” and “Hit the Road, “On the Road,” I became a Jack.” Here’s this month’s Robert Alexander looks through the fearless Dharma Bum. While in selection of vinyl at Culture Clash Records. summer travel playlist: The Playlist • “Holiday Road,” Lindsey Buckingham, from “National Lampoon’s Vacation” • “Born to Be Wild,” Steppenwolf, from “Easy Rider” • “Travelin' Man,” Ricky Nelson • “Ramblin' Man,” Allman Brothers Band (Rock will miss you, Greg.) • “Route 66,” The Rolling Stones, original Nat King Cole • “On the Road Again,” Willie Nelson • “Truckin',” Grateful Dead,“what a long strange trip it’s been” • “Riding with the King,” Eric Clapton, B.B. King, “Cadillac and a diamond ring, don’t you know you’re riding with the king?” • “Roam,” The B 52s, “roam if you want to, roam around the world” • “Me and Bobby McGee,” Janis Joplin, written by Kris Kristofferson
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• “Roadhouse Blues,” The Doors, “let it roll, baby, roll ... all night long” • “Road Trippin',” Red Hot Chili Peppers • “America,” Simon & Garfunkel • “Running on Empty,” Jackson Browne • “Take It Easy,” Eagles, “don't let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy” • “Two Tickets to Paradise,” Eddie Money (Remember him?) • “Pinch Me,” Barenaked Ladies • “Runaway Train,” Soul Asylum,“runaway train, never coming back” • “Drive My Car,” The Beatles • “Back in the USA,” Chuck Berry's national anthem • “Born to Run,” The Boss, Bruce Springsteen, “tramps like us, baby we were born to run”
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Crossword fun: Fun in the Sun ACROSS 1. Fastening device 6. Computer-generated imagery, acr. 9. Savannah College of Art and Design 13. Of the kidneys 14. Not decaf. 15. Flourishing 16. “The ____ of defeat” 17. Tide alternative 18. “PokÈmon,” e.g. 19. *Hitting the water 21. *In the open air 23. RNs’ org. 24. Not happening 25. Eastern title 28. Open-mouthed astonishment 30. Muslim woman’s headscarf 34. Foul substance 36. *Hang out till these come home 38. *July 4th and Labor Day events 40. Novice 41. Addressable locker 43. Calf at a grocery store 44. Biased perspective 46. Ore deposit 47. Home to Sacramento Kings 48. “Live and ____” 50. Telephoned 52. Definite article 53. Same as eon 55. *Poison ____ 57. *Lawn pastime 61. Become undone 65. Nonsense 66. “Dancing in the Rain” dance 68. Window treatment 69. Plural of atrium 70. Id’s partner 71. Brickowski of “The LEGO Movie” 72. *Pick berries, e.g. 73. Movie director Howard 74. Back of the neck, pl. DOWN 1. Underwater hermit 2. Toy brick 3. Dwarf buffalo 4. ____ ray
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5. Applying oneself diligently 6. Rugged rock 7. Hair raiser 8. Meltable home 9. *Volleyball turf 10. The Muse of history 11. Shells in a magazine 12. Textile worker 15. Jamaican vernacular 20. Civil rights org. 22. “Gross!” 24. Neonatology patient 25. Play parts 26. *Fired up for BBQ 27. Same as auras 29. *Alternative to #33 Down 31. Indonesian island 32. Weather advisory, e.g. 33. *Cooling off spot
35. Spanish lady 37. Scotch accompaniment 39. Kind of gin 42. Xe 45. Cause for an ER visit 49. Clinton ____ Rodham 51. *Horticulturist’s patch 54. Weasel’s aquatic cousin 56. Stealing is bad ____ 57. Burn to charcoal 58. Traditional learning method 59. Edible pod 60. Witty remark 61. 2nd word in many fairytales 62. Femme fatale 63. D’Artagnan’s sword 64. TV classic “____ Make a Deal” 67. Gone by
BOOMERS
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Protecting your $$$$$
Ten Things That You Should Not Travel With
Jeff Bucher
Concerns over identity theft continue to grow, especially with news of data breaches at major companies and financial institutions. Unfortunately, you have little control over the hacking of these companies, but you do have control over your
actions. Whether you’re traveling to the Lake Erie Islands or across the country, here is a list of 10 things that you shouldn’t take with you. 1. Social Security Card — A Social Security card may be used to open credit card accounts and take out loans. Taking it out where it might be stolen is tantamount to handing the keys to the kingdom to a thief. For seniors, this also includes your Medicare card since it has your Social Security number on it. 2. Multiple Credit Cards — Carry a single card for general use and emergencies. Only carry
By Jeff Bucher another card if you plan on using it that day. Keeping all those cards at home will save you considerable time in reporting lost cards and disputing charges. 3. Gift Cards and Certificates — They’re like cash. Keep them home until you’re ready to use them. 4. Spare Keys — Your wallet or purse contains your home address. No sense making the theft worse by endangering your home and family.
5. USB Drive — Very convenient for carrying important files, but it’s gone forever if your wallet or purse is lost or stolen. 6. Password Cheat Sheet — Carrying passwords makes it possible for them to fall into the wrong hands. Don’t carry your cheat sheet? How about those ATM PINs? That’s a sure way to lose cash fast. 7. Checks — Carrying around a blank check is an obvious risk. Even a canceled check is a risk, since
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Protecting your $$$$$
Jeff Bucher is the it has your routing and account president and conumbers, which may be founder of Citizen used to transfer cash. Advisory Group, a 8. Receipts — Besides comprehensive financial planning being bulky, they will contain the last five company in Perrysburg. You can numbers of your credit contact him at 419card. A thief might 872-0204; email at “phish” to find the rest of jeff@citizen these. advisory.com; visit at 9. Passport — A thief 770 Commerce Dr., could use this to travel Perrysburg; or visit the website at under your name, open citizenadvisory.com. bank accounts, or even get a Social Security card. Not es vacation good. and their famili up ro G y or is zen Adv The staff of Citi awaii. 10. Business Cards — Big Island of H e th on ther ge to Consider a separate case and carry them in your pocket. Do Investment Advisory Services offered through AlphaStar you really want a thief to know where you work? Capital Management, LLC. AlphaStar Capital Management, LLC and Citizen Advisory Group are independent entities.
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BOOMERS
& Beyond
Books for Boomers
Are you looking for some interesting reads for your vacation? Whether you’re traveling on a plane or relaxing on a beach, here are some books to keep you entertained! Anything is Possible, Center Point, 2017 By Elizabeth Strout By Sue Schafer This collection takes up where the novel, My name is Lucy Barton, leaves Manager, Sylvania Branch, off. The chapters read like short stories with Lucy Barton as the thread Toledo Lucas County that runs between them. The characters populate Amgash, Illinois and Public Library their stories are woven together. Into the Water, Riverhead Books, 2017 By Paula Hawkins With the same propulsion that captivated millions of readers around the world in her novel The Girl on the Train, Paula Hawkins unfurls a gripping, twisting, layered plot, interwoven with a powerful understanding of human instincts and the damage they can inflict. Imagine Me Gone, Little Brown and Company, 2016 By Adam Haslet When Margaret's fiancé, John, is hospitalized for depression, she faces a choice: carry on with their plans, or back away from the suffering it may bring her. She decides to marry him. What follows is the unforgettable story of what unfolds from this act of love and faith. Exit West, Riverhead Books, 2017 By Moshin Hamid This is a story of two young lovers, whose furtive affair is shaped by local unrest on the eve of a civil war that erupts in a cataclysmic bombing attack, forcing them to abandon their previous home and lives. The Fix, Grand Central Publishing By David Baldacci A latest thriller featuring football player-turned-detective Amos Decker finds him using his eidetic memory to solve a high-stakes case. Series: Amos Decker novels, 3.
Crossword Puzzle Solution
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It’s a Date
We hope this month’s Travel Issue has inspired you to pack up and hit the road, even if it’s just for the day or overnight. Here are our picks to help you get out of town and explore nearby cities and events. Happy travels!
rides
Classics on Main Car Show Downtown Bowling Green, Ohio Saturday, July 8, noon – 4 p.m. Show features nearly 400 vehicles from vintage models to modern electrics. Trophies are awarded for categories such as Street Rods, Special Interest Vehicles, Best of Show, Alternative Fuel, Import/Foreign, Corvettes, Mustangs, PreWar and more. Information: 419-354-4332 or downtownbgohio.org.
fests
Toledo Lighthouse Waterfront Festival Maumee Bay State Park 1400 State Park Rd. Oregon, Ohio July 8, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. July 9, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tours of the lighthouse (weather permitting), lighthouse photo contest, silent auction, arts and crafts vendors, food, kids activities, entertainment and free concert at 7 p.m. Saturday in the park’s amphitheater. Free admission and parking. toledolighthousefestival.com Michigan Lavender Fest Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill 17985 Armada Center Rd. Armada, Mich. July 14-16, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The 15th annual festival offers an open-air market with one-of-a-kind gifts, art and handcrafted items from Michigan artisans and farmers, gourmet food, and free activities for kids. Admission $7 for adults; children under 12 free. Free parking within walking distance. michiganlavenderfest.net
August Issue: July 25 DEADLINE: Wednesday, July 12
Got upcoming events? Email us at boomersandbeyond2014@gmail.com
vines
Wild Beasts Wild Wine Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak, Mich. Friday, July 21, 6 – 10 p.m. Sample wine from more than 40 local and national wineries and vineyards while enjoying the zoo’s awesome animals, live music, and zookeeper talks. Tickets are $45 per person and are available at detroitzoo.org.
sweats
Metroparks Bike Tour Start at Fallen Timbers Middle School 6119 Finzel Rd., Whitehouse, Ohio Saturday, July 15, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tour offers the opportunity to visit up to four scenic, wooded Metroparks and view the historic Maumee River. Four routes include 15-, 31-, 62- and 100-mile rides. Register and begin at your convenience between 7 and 10 a.m. MVAdventurers.org
beats
16th Annual River Raisin Jazz Festival St. Mary’s Park 25 W. Elm Ave., Monroe, Mich. August 12 – 13, noon – 10 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy two full days of live jazz music, food court, beer tent and art fair. Lineup features award winning flutist Alexander Zonjic and The Ohio Players. Admission is free. riverraisinjazzfestival.org
arts
Sunday Artisan Market Kerrytown District, Ann Arbor 315 Detroit St. Sundays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ann Arbor’s weekly art market. More than 40 artisans bring their creations for displaying and selling their works to the public. Information: 734-913-9622 or sundayartisanmarket.org.