Northeast Ohio Boomer | May June 2024

My Bee-List

SUMMER OF SURVIVAL

Ihad one thought when I tried on a beekeeping suit for the first time: How fast can I run in this thing?

Chickens are quick, as any “Rocky” fan knows. I share a flock with my neighbor and chase plenty of them around the yard. Bees are tricky. Not only are they fast, but they also have a propensity to sting if they’re surprised or mishandled by an inexperienced beekeeper.

My chicken neighbor and I dove in anyway and became bee owners; we’re too new to call ourselves beekeepers just yet. By the time you read this, we will have installed a second hive in my yard; that’s 20,000 bees, in case you were keeping track.

DODGING DEATH

I have lots of experience with animals: dogs, cats, horses, birds, fish, bats, mice, and even a garter snake or two. It took a couple of bee classes before I realized that this beekeeping thing was going to tax my animal management skills.

Bees die or disappear in more ways than most creatures I’ve encountered. They can get too hot, too cold or too wet. They can starve to death or have too much food (honey) and leave a crowded hive. Stray swarms will attack a hive and take over. Sometimes, the queen and her minions fly away without obvious provocation. Death is rife in a bee colony. Worker bees kill weak queens. Undertaker bees drag dead bees out of hives. A skunk can eat bees like popcorn if the hive isn’t elevated. And I haven’t mentioned

the Varroa mite. Keeping bees is like watching an episode of “The Sopranos.” You don’t know how or when a character will die, only that it’ll be spectacular and violent.

So what does this have to do with our May/June issue? It’s our Summer Fun Guide, and I’m keeping bees alive for my summer fun. You can find other suggestions for non-insect (mostly) things to do starting on Page 18. In addition to bees and chickens, I’m always up for an outdoor concert. Check with a community nearby for places to spend a balmy, music-filled evening.

We also have a story about starting your own business, a popular option for people who are rethinking their retirement years, and a notion that’s catching on with people living longer and healthier lives than our parents and grandparents enjoyed.

While being an investigative reporter is an unusual and gutsy job, Carl Monday tells us how he’s making the transition from full-time to part-time work in a Q&A with our pop culture columnist Mike Olszewski. Monday is interesting and impressively agile. Want to know how I know the latter trait? Read the story on Page 26.

You might say I’m going in the opposite direction from retirement by getting bees. I suspect I’ll be more attentive to them than I was to my (now) grown children, who, like a restless bee colony, up and left us: one to Atlanta, the other to Dallas.

Kids are sturdier than honeybees, based on my experience so far, and I don’t recall issues with mites. But I’m finding similarities: If you stick with both kids and bees long enough, you’ll get a sweet payoff, and both can also give a nasty sting. With bees, it’s when they’re startled; with kids, it’s when they say goodbye.

I’ll take the bee sting anytime.

VOL. 10, ISSUE 3

May/June 2024

Northeast Ohio Boomer is a property of Mitchell Media LLC

PO Box 1088 Hudson, OH 44236 330-822-4011 NortheastOhioBoomer.com

/NEOhioBoomer /NEOhioBoomer

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EDITOR - Marie Elium marie@northeastohioboomer.com

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CONTRIBUTORS

Jennifer Beach, Margaret Briller, Estelle Rodis-Brown, Bill DeMarco, Pat Faulhaber, Traci McBride, Mike Olszewski, Tak Sato, Karen Shadrach

ART DIRECTOR - Laura Chadwick laura@northeastohioboomer.com

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EVENTS MANAGER

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DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES info@northeastohioboomer.com

PUBLISHER OF

NEO BOOMER EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Mindi Axner

Executive Director National Council of Jewish Women/Cleveland

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

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

Boomer

Thrive After 55 Northeast Ohio

Coming in the July/August Issue beginning July 19

TACKLE TECH

From Androids to Zoom and Everything in Between Plus: Festival Fever

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

WORTH NOTING

Mad Daddy

HOW CLEVELAND CHANGED ROCK RADIO

It’s not your imagination.

Cleveland rock & roll radio set the pace for over-the-top DJs and cuttingedge music, led by a lively assortment of personalities whose influences reached far beyond Northeast Ohio.

You can learn about one of the most famous Saturdays, July 27, at Music Box Supper Club when the people who knew Pete Myers—“The Mad Daddy”— tell their firsthand takes of the colorful radio legend with “Mad Daddy! A Celebration of How Cleveland Changed Rock and Roll!”

Boomer’s pop culture columnist Mike Olszewski and his wife, Janice, will discuss their book, “Myers, Mintz, and the Moondog and How Cleveland, Ohio Changed Rock Radio.” Joining them are Cleveland radio pioneers Johnny Holiday, Jim LaBarbara, and Miriam Linna, founding member of the Cramps and Mad Daddy promoter.

Doors open at 12:30 p.m.; stories begin at 2 p.m. Admission is free but reservations for tables are required. Go to musicboxcle.com for more information.

Cleveland’s radio reputation spread far beyond Northeast Ohio. One reason: The oversized personality of Mad Daddy.

Sew Cool

A COMMUNITY OF CREATORS

Here’s a great idea that came to our attention recently: Sew4Service. The Cuyahoga County group turns donated fabric and yarn into handmade items, then gives them to local organizations.

As if that’s not enough, they teach sewing classes in Wickliffe and sell donated fabric, yarn and supplies at their Fabric Stash Store in Euclid’s Shore Cultural Centre. They also host bring-yourown-sewing-machine sewing sessions to make items for local charities. Learn more at sew4service.org, on their Facebook page or Instagram Sew4Service

You asked—we’ll deliver.

Northeast Ohio Boomer LAUNCHES HOME DELIVERY

Our free print edition comes out six times a year, distributed at 700+ locations throughout the region. And we have a digital version on northeastohioboomer.com. Yet, many of our loyal readers have asked for another option: home delivery.

44236, or call 330-822-4011 for credit card payments.

Created by Firza Alamsyah from the Noun Project

We hear you loud and clear. Now you can get an annual mail subscription to the Northeast Ohio Boomer print edition for $24. Go to the “Subscribe” tab at the top of our website to sign up, mail a check payable to “Northeast Ohio Boomer” to P.O. Box 1088, Hudson, OH

You can pick up free print copies of the magazine at the usual places: libraries, recreation centers, medical offices, Marc’s, Discount Drug Mart, and Giant Eagle stores. The website will continue to have the free digital issue, plus timely stories and blogger posts about active aging, and don’t forget our Northeast Ohio Boomer Facebook page with articles and contest giveaways. Home delivery is one more way to enjoy our magazine. We appreciate your support and value your feedback. Send story ideas and comments to editor@northeastohioboomer.com.

WORTH NOTING

Do you know someone aged 60 or better who challenges common misconceptions about aging and inspires others to embrace life to the fullest? Family member, friend or neighbor: Benjamin Rose wants to hear about them. The Cleveland-based nonprofit is taking nominations for its Golden Achievement Award to shine a spotlight on incredible individuals who defy aging stereotypes and inspire others to rethink aging.

Tell Benjamin Rose ABOUT AN EXTRAORDINARY OLDER ADULT

candidate today for the chance to see them honored at Triumph: Benjamin Rose Celebrates You! The Aug. 2 luncheon and awards ceremony will celebrate the remarkable achievements of Benjamin Rose’s clients, partners, supporters and community. A community fair open to the public will follow the ceremony and luncheon.

Nominate a deserving

Don’t miss your chance to bring recognition to someone truly worth celebrating. Submit nominations at benrose.org/golden-achievement by June 12 and help Benjamin Rose recognize this year’s Golden Achiever.

Cleveland Clinic Launches

CENTER FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH

Health care for women during midlife and beyond is the cornerstone of Cleveland Clinic’s new Women’s Comprehensive Health and Research Center. With star power backing from Maria Shriver, who was in Cleveland recently for the announcement, the center will focus on behavioral health, breast health, cardiovascular care, infant and maternal health, endocrinology and weight management, menopause, osteoporosis and metabolic bone density, wellness and disease prevention and healthy aging. It will also include The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement Prevention and Research Center, which Shriver founded.

To learn more, call 216-444-8686 or visit clevelandclinic.org/caringforwomen.

ICloud Cover

often get ideas for Tech Talk from older adults in my digital literacy classes. I’ve written about artificial intelligence (AI) and how smartphones use mobile data and Wi-Fi. A third popular topic is how smartphones use cloud storage. The question is often triggered by a cryptic message saying they’ve run out of storage space. Let me set the stage with a simple analogy.

In the real world, where we physically exist, I’ve noticed an uptick in storage units that spring up in an orderly, apartment-like fashion in suburban areas. My hunch is that most offsite storage renters make space at home by moving things to offsite storage.

With the ubiquity of a smartphone connected to the cloud 24/7, and with the touch of a screen, changing it from a phone to a camera, we can capture Kodak moments without using an actual camera. Using a smartphone as

Store More

a digital camera or video camera creates photo and video files. Those files need to be stored either on the smartphone’s internal storage space and/or copied (backed up) to cloud storage.

MORE SPACE

Barring expensive remodeling, your house has fixed square-footage space. Like your home, your smartphone’s internal storage is, for most makes and models, not expandable. In the early days of smartphones, Android smartphones’ internal storage was expandable. Eventually, most manufacturers jettisoned that capability due to, ironically, cloud storage’s proliferation. Apple iPhones, on the other hand, never could expand their internal storage and always relied on cloud storage.

Google and Apple’s cloud storage offerings, “Drive” and “iCloud” (notice the “i” prefix which is the signature Apple branding) respectively, provide free

cloud storage space, anywhere from 10% to 20% of your smartphone’s internal storage space, depending on the model.

When you set up an Android-based smartphone with a Google ccount, you can use Google Apps like Gmail (email) or Photos (digital picture album with backup to cloud storage functionality built in). They will ask if you want your photos/videos to be backed up to Drive at full resolution (original picture quality) or slightly reduced resolution so your free cloud storage fills up more slowly. Apple’s approach is the opposite of Google’s. Apple tries to save space on the smartphone’s internal storage instead of the cloud storage. iPhones/ iPads/Macs have a user-selectable option called “iCloud Photo.” If you turn it on, full-resolution images are stored in iCloud while lower resolution (but images sharp enough for viewing on the device’s screen) are stored on the smartphone’s internal storage.

As you probably guessed, both Apple and Google will sell you more storage space for a small monthly subscription fee. This is akin to upgrading to a bigger storage unit so you can transport more stuff from your home into the storage units.

The good news is that both Apple and Google’s fees are relatively reasonable, akin to one or two overpriced cups of coffee a month, more if you store videos. Google provides 15GB of free cloud storage space while Apple gives you 5GB. Google “Google One pricing” or “Apple iCloud+ pricing” for details.

One note: Apple users who are not sure if iCloud Photo is good for your situation, or if you’re already using it and want to stop, should visit the Apple stores at Crocker Park (West Side) or Eton Place (East Side).

Changing the setting midstream may require additional steps to ensure that you don’t inadvertently lose photos or videos.

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.

Good Teeth, Good Health

As we mature, almost everything in our lives—from our bodies to our homes to our cars—wears out, and that includes teeth.

Our teeth have lasted for a long time when you consider that our permanent ones started to come in at age 6 or so. They’ve taken us through thousands of meals and many days and nights, sometimes enduring grinding if we’ve been under stress. Add to that acids and debris left from the foods we’ve eaten; it’s quite amazing how well our teeth have served us.

Nevertheless, the years take their toll, and many people turn to their dental professionals for help. Color-wise, bleaching techniques like the Zoom in-office procedure and home-whitening gels can make a big difference. The use of bonding, porcelain veneers and crowns can also brighten stained teeth, as well as repair fractures and breakage.

Missing teeth can be fixed with permanent, all-porcelain bridges, implants and crowns. Multiple missing teeth can be treated with removable partials that no longer have metal sub-structures or unsightly metal clasps. Teeth that have shifted, due to a misaligned bite or movement over time, can be adjusted with braces or clear aligners to improve appearance and function.

The takeaway is that, regardless of someone’s age or dental situation,

there’s a remedy. Today’s dental offices make it easier than ever to invest in oral health. In some cases, insurance may offset the cost. (It’s usually by the calendar year, so get started soon). Most offices take credit cards, and some offer 12month, no-interest plans through

CareCredit, which can be accessed over the web. Dental work can often be staged over time to help patients afford their treatment plan.

Regardless of a patient’s age or condition, today’s dental materials and techniques can help make your teeth feel, function and look years younger.

Fresh & Bold

COLOR YOUR SUMMER

Surrounding yourself with colors that make you feel good is a gift that keeps giving. Color sparks energy, yet many of us play it safe, relying on neutral tones. I love my white couch, but I zhoosh it up with fresh, oversized green pillow covers trimmed with pom poms. It makes me happy.

SEASONAL SWITCHUPS

Changing accessories and art to shades of green is a must-do for me this year; what color is for you? Each season triggers a rotation of our belongings. While my base remains the same, the supporting players get a refreshing rotation switch-out.

A passion I’ve followed for the past few decades is infusing the power of color in others’ lives, both in their spaces and wardrobes.

After visiting hundreds of homes and hearing from clients, friends and audience members at speaking engagements, I’ve heard plenty of color confessions. People don’t know where to begin or feel overwhelmed with options and ideas. Some worry that color will make their room look disjointed or clownish. Others are afraid to make wrong choices so they waste time and money. Many have pinned colorful rooms on Pinterest

OUTSIDE

Patios and decks are places most of us use daily, so give these spaces love and colorful punches to magnify your relaxation and happiness.

• Upscale your outdoor spaces by ditching the paper plates and plastic red Solo cups; add acrylic wine glasses and bold melamine plates.

• Use outdoor rugs on the patio to add to the indoor feeling. Consider outdoor space as another room.

• A color palette for cushions, pillows and plants streamlines to a lush, sophisticated style over a cluttered, busy one. Being intentional with color beats haphazardly adding random colors.

yet never implemented the ideas into their homes. They lack the confidence to pull it off successfully.

TIPS

Think of the most beautiful sunset you’ve ever seen; how did it make you feel? Could the colors be translated into your home decor?

• Use art you already own and bounce those colors into the rest of the room where they are displayed. Repeating the pop of color in different shades of the same hue throughout the room and bringing it into other spaces in the home will create a flow. Use accessories, textures, paint, accent trim, and wallpaper to facilitate the connection.

• Change the matting of your framed prints with a quick trip to Michaels craft store; they can cut any size with many options of both color and texture.

• Consider pillow covers, vases and rugs. Color changes don’t need to cost much. Shop your home first; visit consignment and thrift shops to assemble everything else.

• A common question is whether laying a rug on wall-to-wall carpeting is OK. Yes, it is OK. Not everyone has hardwood, and the carpet can be a quick, unifying way to pull a space together. Rugs create a warm, cozy space with dimension and punch of color.

• For indoor rugs, let furniture mostly sit on the rug or at least the front two legs of the couches or chairs. Choose a thin rug on top of lower-profile carpeting. Add a thin gripper pad underneath to avoid shifting, and if the corners might be a tripping hazard, use corner carpet tape to secure them.

Creating a mood with color in your spaces and wardrobe will generate a ripple effect in every area of your life.

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.

Grand

Child’s Play

Rediscover the Great Outdoors

It’s not your imagination: children today spend less time outside than any other generation. That’s the word from the National Recreation and Park Association.

With unstructured playtime down and technical use up, the time kids spend outdoors drops every year. It’s important that we, as grandparents, make the most of our time together and spend as much time as possible doing activities outside. After all, nature is the best playground.

The natural playground is a play area with elements that are integrated with the outdoor landscape, such as treehouses, streams and rope bridges, downed trees to jump on and tunnel

logs to crawl through.

Natural playgrounds offer a wide range of options that encourage creative and imaginative play and allow children to choose how they interact with the nature around them.

Studies show that children who play in a natural environment have a greater attention span, better physical fitness and less stress. Plus, it’s good for developing gross motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

GOOD NATURED

Cleveland Metroparks and Cuyahoga Valley National Park offer abundant opportunities to explore and learn about the habitats surrounding us. Discover something new outdoors this season with your grandchildren, and take in all the new life (plant and animal) emerging as the world turns green and colorful again.

Cleveland Metroparks comprises 18 separate reservations and over 25,000 acres in Northeast Ohio that make up our Emerald Necklace. CVNP in nearby Peninsula has 33,000 acres that include ledges, waterfalls, a river and hiking trails.

In addition to natural play areas, the Metroparks system has free nature centers, open year-round. They are great places to view and learn about local wildlife with native live-animal exhibits and naturalist-led programs. All offer special programs and camps for different age groups throughout the summer, something to remember if you want to attend one with your grandchild or provide a ride and cover the cost (if any) for participating.

Over the last few years, Cleveland Metroparks has added interesting nature-themed playgrounds.

Andrew’s Nature Play area is across from Brecksville Nature Center on Chippewa Road. It has a large pavilion with picnic tables, balance equipment, swings, a slide, a tunnel, a climbing tree and a great layout with lots of room to run around. Brecksville Nature Center is at a trailhead for several surrounding trails. A tallgrass prairie is adjacent to the building. The trailside program center hosts educational programs and sponsors hiking for tykes and outdoor adventures.

Karen’s Way Play Space at Huntington Reservation in Bay Village is the newest park addition, located within the historic lakefront park. Nearly one acre in size, this children’s play space has an expansive nature-based design that highlights log tables/chairs, climbing equipment, an interactive water play area, a willow tunnel and a slide. Huntington Reservation is also the home to Lake Erie Nature and Science Center.

Nature Play at Penitentiary Glen Reservation in Kirtland is a part of Lake Metroparks. It offers interactive sites designed to engage children in creative and imaginative play. Let the kids explore the playground that has logs to climb on, hillsides to roll down, a large sand pit and tunnels to crawl through. There is also a play campsite, a play garden center and a shallow pond. Kids can chart their course of adventure through this outdoor play maze. It is completely fenced in so parents can observe from a distance. Their Wildlife Center, adjacent to the nature center, is a mini-zoo featuring special presentations and baby wildlife demonstrations.

The Lindsey Family Play Space is at Edgewater Park near the Upper Edgewater Picnic Shelter. It has a wide range of nature play opportunities such as water, sand, boulders and natural climbing structures. It is a part of the Lakefront Reservation.

Cleveland Metroparks Rocky River Nature Center hosts a Nature Arts and Craft Series for kids 12 and older. The program runs throughout the year with registration open the month before the event. This may be something you can participate in together with an older grandchild.

Other favorite Nature Centers are in Shaker Lakes, Creekside in Parma and CanalWay in Cuyahoga Heights.

Find more outdoor play spots, both manmade and natural at clevelandmetroparks.com. What’s great is that if it is a rainy day, you can spend all your time indoors at a nature center and have fun playing while learning about nature.

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.

FUN with the GRANDKIDS

TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS

Summer Farm Fun Days. Come out and enjoy the fresh summer air. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 6/11-8/18. Nickajack Farms, 2955 Manchester Ave., Canal Fulton, nickajackfarms.com. $8

WEDNESDAYS

Fun on the Farm. Pony and pony cart rides, horse rides and more. June-August. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Spring Mist Farms, 691 Pearl Road, Brunswick Hills, springmistfarms. com. $5

ONGOING

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

Two Acre Outdoor Play Park. 60-foot giant slide, four-person helicopter swing, a 200-foot zip line, a mini challenge course and an old fashioned merry-go-round. Akron Fossils & Science Center, 2080 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road, Copley, akronfossils.com. $12

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

5/19

Family Fun Day. Activities, food and more for one great day at the lake. Trail Lake Park 605 Ravenna Road, Streetsboro, portageparkdisctrict. org. FREE

6/5

Elemental: Outdoor Movie. Follow Ember and Wade, in a city where fire, water, earth and air residents live together. 7 p.m. Centennial Plaza, 330 Court Ave. NW, Canton, cantonpalacetheatre.org. FREE

6/22

Baby’s Beach Bash. Featuring a short story, songs, photo opportunities, and other baby activities. 10-11 a.m. Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Road, 330-688-3295, smfpl.org FREE

TUESDAYS

Northeast Ohio Parent Event Series. Free, family-friendly entertainment with interactive activities for kids ages 2-9, northeastohioparent.com

PINECREST PLAY DAYS

11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Pinecrest Orange Village

5/14, 6/11, 7/9 & 8/6

FUN AT FIRST & MAIN

10 a.m.-noon

First and Main Hudson 5/21, 6/18, 7/16 & 8/13

CROCKER KIDS

11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Crocker Park Westlake

5/28, 6/25, 7/23 & 8/29

Sweet Summer Fun

Entertain Family & Friends at these Hot Spots

We’re in the sweet spot.

It’s that wonderful time of year when the fear of frost is finally over, the sweltering heat of midsummer is still off in the distance, and out-of-town family and friends are descending for graduations, weddings, family reunions, or just because.

Beaches

Nothing says summer like a day at the lake. Pack a picnic, throw on your bathing suits, lather on the sunscreen and let loose. Along with sunbathing and swimming, you can go kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding or otherwise floating on Lake Erie from several prime beaches.

So, now that the weather is kind, where should you take your guests to enjoy the best that Northeast Ohio has to offer?

We’ve compiled a short list of fun options that should be crowd-pleasers as spring segues into summer:

Everyone knows about Cedar Point but have you ever spent a day at Cedar Point Beach, Lakeside, Catawba Island State Park, Kelleys Island State Park Beach, North Bass Island State Park, South Bass Island State Park, Marblehead’s East Harbor State Park Beach, or Magee Marsh Wildlife Beach in Oak Harbor? See shoresandislands. com for more information.

Closer to home, Cleveland Metroparks offers swimming at six life-guarded beaches, including Edgewater Beach, Wallace Lake, Villa Angela in Euclid Creek Reservation, and Huntington Beach during posted dates and times at clevelandmetroparks. com/parks/visit/activities/activity-types/swimming. (Hinckley Lake Spillway and Ledge Pool are temporarily closed.)

Bike Trails

Did you know that Ohio is recognized for having the most U.S. Bicycle Route miles in America? And since May is National Bike Month, there’s no better time to explore the state’s bike trails.

Ride along the 18-mile Richland B&O Trail in Northeast Ohio or explore options in your neighborhood at ohio.org/things-to-do/cycling-bikepaths. You can check out the state’s network of bike trails on a detailed map at transportation.ohio.gov.

Botanical Gardens

One of the largest botanical gardens in the nation is Holden Arboretum in Kirtland. It boasts more than 3,600 acres of gardens and wooded areas to be explored, with over 9,400 different kinds of plants.

There’s also Cleveland Botanical Garden with its Japanese Garden, Costa Rica Glasshouse, and Hershey’s Children’s Garden. See holdenfg.org to learn more about each location.

Cruises (Sightseeing/Dining)

See Cleveland from a new vantage point. Climb aboard the GOODTIME III, the largest quadruple-deck, 1,000-passenger luxury ship on the Great Lakes for a two-hour narrated cruise along the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie. You’ll get an in-depth look into Cleveland’s history and enjoy singular views of downtown Cleveland, the Flats and surrounding areas.

Reservations are recommended and can be made on the day of the cruise, based on availability. Call (216) 861-5110 or visit goodtimeiii.com/ sightseeing-cruise/.

You may also enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner cruises on Lady Caroline, which offers “a relaxing opportunity to experience Cleveland and our local waterways. Every passenger will see our city, river and lake in a whole new light while enjoying the sounds of our onboard DJ entertainment.” Call (216) 696-8888 or visit ladycaroline.com.

From the West Bank of the Flats, the Nautica Queen offers dining cruises along Cleveland’s north shore. Glide under historic bridges along Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River while enjoying an unlimited buffet meal and DJ entertainment. Call (216) 696-8888 or visit nauticaqueen.com for details.

Guided Walking Tours

Tours of Cleveland, LLC offers yearround educational walking tours of beautiful and historic downtown Cleveland, featuring Downtown Highlights, Cleveland From the Inside, Downtown Public Art and the VIP Experience. Reservations required; book at toursofcleveland.com.

Our National Park

Between the cities of Cleveland and Akron, we have a national treasure: Cuyahoga Valley National Park. A refuge for native plants and wildlife, the park features the restored Cuyahoga River, deep forests, rolling hills and open farmlands.

Walk or ride the Towpath Trail to follow the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal, take a train ride along the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, or check the calendar for daily events. See nps.gov/cuva/index.htm for all the details.

Stargazing

If nighttime is your vibe, view the stars at Observatory Park in Montville’s Geauga Park District. When the park opened in 2011, it was awarded a Silver Tier Dark Sky Park distinction, making it one of the only Dark Sky Parks in the country. Go to geaugaparkdistrict.org/ park/observatory-park/ for details.

Or head to Bay Village for Lake Erie Nature & Science Center’s Planetarium. The full-dome planetarium theater offers comfortable seating for 54 and is wheelchair accessible. Its star projector and digital projector provide an immersive learning experience through high-resolution, 360-degree images and a realistic display of over 3,000 stars. See lensc.org/visit/planetarium/ for scheduling details.

LIVE EVENTS

May 18-19

The Fair Food Walk-Thru will whet your appetite for the 127th Annual Cuyahoga County Fair planned for August 6-11, 2024. This preview will be held at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Berea from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. each day.

This fair food teaser will highlight favorite midway foods with 12 concessionaires participating. From pizza, gyros, steak sandwiches, Italian sausage,

corn dogs, and pierogies, to sweet treats like banana cream nachos, strudel, kettle corn, cheesecake-on-A-stick, funnel cakes, elephant ears, ice cream, caramel and candy apples and more. (Some vendors accept credit cards; most accept cash only.)

This is a rain-or-shine event with free admission and free parking at both the Main Entrance at 19201 East Bagley and through Gate 2 off 164 Eastland Road. For event details, including open times and a listing of participating concessionaires, visit cuyfair.com.

May 24- 27 (Memorial Day Weekend)

Also at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds will be the 25th Annual Berea’s National Rib Cook-Off & Beer Fest. Recently named one of 15 Can’t-Miss Food Events in Cleveland, you’ll enjoy some of the best ribs around. This family-friendly event has a picnic-style atmosphere with face-painting, a rock-climbing wall, craft vendors, live music and more. There is free parking, free admission for kids under 12, and in celebration of National Military Appreciation Month, on Monday (Memorial Day), Retired & Active-Duty Military personnel showing proper military ID will be admitted for free. General Admission is free on Friday before 5 p.m., then $10 after 5 p.m., and $10 on Saturday, Sunday and Monday (Memorial Day). Musical entertainment is free all weekend long with your paid cook-off admission.

Learn more at berearib.com.

May 25-26 (Memorial Day Weekend)

The Civil War Encampment at Century Village in Burton is a big draw for history buffs of all ages. This living history event takes you back in time with musical entertainment, shopping, food and a historic battle reenactment.

Strains of fife and drums, visions of tent camps with folks in period dress with period-perfect accouterments, exploring historic buildings housing exhibits and craft demonstrations, and watching 19th-century military men demonstrate Civil War-era cannons and rifles on the rolling plains are all part of the picture.

Find details at centuryvillagemuseum.org and ohiofestivals.net/ civil-war-encampment-burton/.

Sweet Summer Fun

June Through September

Rock The Block community days, which celebrate Pride, Juneteenth, Black Music Month and Hispanic Heritage Month and other free concerts return to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s Union Home Mortgage Plaza this summer.

Book FREE RSVP (if necessary) for the events and get details at rockhall.com.

• June 13, 7 p.m.

Juneteenth: Black Music Now

• June 16, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. –MX Juneteenth

• June 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. –Fam Jam

• July 5, noon-2 p.m. Revolutionary Women: Solo Sets

• Aug.10, noon-4 p.m. –Cleveland Cultural Fest

• Aug. 30, 6:30 p.m. –Believe in CLE Yoga

• Sept. 28, noon – 4 p.m.Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration

Community Event Pages

June 7-July 26 (Every FRIDAY Evening)

LakewoodAlive—celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year—features family-friendly, community-building, diverse events including the Front Porch Concert Series, which kicks off on the first Friday in June.

With a total of eight free, open-air shows taking place every Friday evening in June and July, the first six will be on the front steps of the Lakewood Public Library, and the last two will be hosted at Madison Park Pavilion. Bring your family, friends, snacks, blankets and

chairs for a memorable summer evening.

For details, see lakewoodalive.org/ event/2024-front-porchconcert-series-2/.

July 10, 17 & 31 (Wednesdays)

City Stages is the Cleveland Museum of Art’s (CMA) free summer concert series, with global music at Transformer Station in Ohio City’s Hingetown neighborhood. Musical groups this summer are Mexico-based Pahua (July 10), Haiti- and Canada-based Wesli (July 17) and Brazil-based Bia Ferreira (July 31) Concerts start at 7:30 p.m.

There’s so much to do and see as summer bursts onto the Northeast Ohio scene. Savor the sweet spot while it lasts. Go to NortheastOhioBoomer. com for updated event listings.

Estelle Rodis-Brown is NEO Boomer magazine’s associate editor... and a happy camper.

COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM

Embark on a wild adventure this summer at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Explore all eight animal regions where you can watch zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles roam across the savanna while lions nap in the shade. Feed giraffes or watch the bright pink Caribbean flamingo and the black and white Humboldt penguins strut with their fellow mates. Don’t forget to visit the newest additions to our Zoo family, a baby orangutan and a baby gorilla. Plan your perfect day at columbuszoo.org and make unforgettable memories this summer.

LAKE ERIE NATURE CENTER

Spend your summer at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center. Explore the outdoors, meet resident animals, and discover the night sky in the Schuele Planetarium. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center offers free general admission to indoor and outdoor exhibits 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nature-based programming including summer camps, wildlife encounters and planetarium shows are available for visitors of all ages. View the program schedule and register at lensc.org.

LORAIN COUNTY METROPARKS

The Lorain County Metro Parks offers a variety of public programs, including hikes, outdoor concerts, animal encounters,

Special Advertiser Listings

educational opportunities, and more. Lorain County Metro Parks has been caring for the landscape of your family traditions since 1957. With more than 11,000 acres of protected and public land, everyone can find a park to enjoy. Visit loraincountymetroparks.com to see what’s happening and to find your chance to enjoy nature nearby.

OLENTANGY CAVERNS | OLENTANGY ROCK & GEM SHOP

Explore a kidfriendly cave. Mine for gems. Start your rock collection at our Rock & Gem Shop. Hunt for treasure in the

maze. Play on our REAL fire truck, then walk the Bigfoot Walking Trail. Enjoy a round of mini-golf. And visit Columbus’s largest petting zoo. Open daily through October 31. Located just 5 miles from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. 1779 Home Road, Delaware, OH, 740-548-7917 olentangycaverns.com

TASTE OF CLEVELAND

Taste CLE offers all kinds of fun summer events. How about a Jimmy Buffett Tribute event in July which includes margarita sampling, tequila sampling with headliner, the Peter Mayer Band which are the guys from Jimmy’s Band. Reggae lovers, come to Reggae Fest in Downtown Cleveland. For our East Side Clevelanders, check out the bar crawls in Chagrin Falls. We finish up the summer with a Food Truck Music Festival at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds.

Special Advertiser Listings

THE CLEVELAND ORCHESTRA

The countdown to the 2024 Blossom Music Festival starts now. Reserve your seats today for concerts from June 29 through Sept, 1. Highlights include a “Salute to America,” “Rhapsody in Blue,” “Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony,” “Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony,” movie nights, and Broadway favorites. Guest artists Béla Fleck, Leslie Odom Jr., John Legend, Víkingur Ólafsson, Tony DeSare, and others visit Blossom this summer. Save by buying season subscriptions, choose your packages or ultra-flexible Lawn Ticket Books. Ask about Under 18s free tickets.

Prepare for a splashing good time this summer at Zoombezi Bay, Ohio’s most epic waterpark. Dive into excitement with new features including a new food location, events, live music, and DJs to celebrate the season. Make Zoombezi Bay a must-visit destination for your summer fun plans. Plan your perfect day at zoombezibay.com and dive into unforgettable adventures this summer.

Employee Entrepreneur to

THE BUSINESS OF STARTING A BUSINESS

After spending decades in the same job or company, countless adults over 55 want or need to keep working. For some, that means transitioning from employee to employer as a small business owner.

Nearly a quarter of new entrepreneurs across the country are 55-64 years old, according to “Trends in Entrepreneurship Series,” by The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, which studies and supports new businesses. Older adults have attributes that are key to building a successful business: experience, knowledge, education and time.

Holly Bolinger is the center director of the Small Business Development Center at Kent State University’s Tuscarawas branch, one of several located throughout

RESOURCES

Ohio. She’s worked with entrepreneurs and startups for two decades and is seeing more people who want to start their businesses.

Most older adults exploring encore careers want to use skills they developed from decades in the workforce, she says. Consulting is a common option, returning to a former employer or industry to train or assist the next generation of employees. Some move into the service field, starting restaurants or group homes.

“Others start businesses using skill sets like welding and auto repair,” Bolinger says. “Our Small Business Orientation startup webinars have had over 40 people registered for the

• Small Business Development Center (SBDC), clients.ohiosbdc.ohio.gov, for planning, analysis, workshops and training programs, one-on-one business counseling, and more.

• JumpStart, jumpstart inc.org, for programs, workshops, funding opportunities, and business assistance.

• Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE), cose.org, is a small-business group offering networking and educational events, advocacy on legislative and regulatory issues, navigation to the right resources and solutions, and costeffective group purchasing programs.

• Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), score.org, offers mentors, workshops, community partnerships, and local resources.

• Made in Ohio, ohio.org/home/made-in-ohio, provides links to hundreds of Ohio companies and small businesses; it’s a good place to get business ideas.

SHOW ME THE MONEY Grant Options

• Ohio Small Business Grants - usgrants.org/ ohio/small-business-grants

• Top Small Business Grants in Ohionerdwallet.com/article/small-business/ small-business-grants-ohio

• The Ohio Chamber of Commerceohiochamber.com/6839-2/

• Ohio.GrantWatch - ohio.grantwatch.com/ cat/13/small-business-grants.html

• B2B Network - b2bnn.com/2023/11/ small-business-grants-ohio/

past several months. There are attendees just looking for information while others request counseling. Most want to create a business plan and receive ongoing assistance.

“The business climate in Northeast Ohio is amenable to those over 55. Experience allows them to prioritize effectively and to work smarter rather than harder. If the company is labor intensive, they hire others to do the physical labor while they concentrate on management, marketing and sales growth.”

QUESTIONS, REWARDS

Bolinger says to ask yourself these questions before starting a business: Why do you want to do it? Can you afford it? Can you go without a paycheck or benefits temporarily? Do you have a plan, and is your spouse or partner on board?

One of the biggest challenges to starting any business at any age is money.

“Access to capital continues to be an issue for startup businesses, especially for those in the service sector with little collateral,” Bolinger says. “Banks appear to have tightened credit, plus interest rates are high. Some individuals have turned to home equity loans to fund their businesses.

“Banks are usually not as open for a startup as they are for others seeking funding. The few programs that might be used for startups usually want control of the monies and are term loans rather than revolving lines of credit. While this works well if you need equipment and can submit an invoice to the bank to pay and add to your loan, it does not work for a business that needs ongoing working capital for payroll or other short-term needs.”

Regardless of the challenges, Bolinger says that for those she has counseled, the rewards outweigh the difficulties.

“Often the talents of this (55+) group have been overlooked, and breaking out on their own allows them more control and recognition.”

Pat Faulhaber is a freelance writer, editor and blogger based in Northeast Ohio.

So You Want to Start a Business? Steps for Success

1. Make sure your spouse or partner is on board. Starting a business takes a toll on personal savings and time.

2. Leave retirement funds alone; they aren’t protected from actions such as bankruptcy.

3. Attend a start-up seminar at your local Small Business Development Center (clients.ohio sbdc.ohio.gov). Seminars cover local resources, legal issues, licenses, taxes, business planning, and funding.

4. Determine how the company will operate and consider potential liability. A bar has more risk of a lawsuit than an answering service. Business entities include Limited Liability Company (LLC); Sole Proprietorship; Corporation; S Corporation; Partnership; Limited Partnership; Limited Liability Partnership; General Partnership or Nonprofit.

5. If there are multiple owners, consider using an attorney to create formal articles of organization to define terms; address how profits are to be shared, including a formula or amount of money if someone dies or gives up ownership. Set this at the start when everyone is friendly.

6. Make a comprehensive plan. While there are many templates available, entrepreneurs should research them to make them meaningful. The better the plan, the fewer surprises down the road. Understand and be able to explain business projections for growth and profit, especially if you need financing.

7. Projections determine how much capital you need and when you can take a paycheck. Do you have enough money to start a business? Do not use credit cards; their high interest rates affect cash flow and most likely cause the venture to fail.

8. Are family members or friends loaning you money? You’ll need a promissory note with the amount, interest rate, and repayment size and timing.

9. If necessary, apply for one or more commercial loans. A line of credit is for short-term capital needs 12 months or less. It can be borrowed, paid down, and re-borrowed. It is due on demand. Undercapitalization usually fails. Have an attorney read the documents before signing and negotiating changes. Banks do not need to honor change requests, and if they do, they charge substantial fees.

10. Do not be pressured into anything. Last-minute changes are often disastrous. Take time to evaluate any new course of action. Once you are up and running, you have to make it work.

Source: Holly Bolinger, center director, Small Business Development Center, Kent State University, Tuscarawas branch. She can be reached at hbolinge@kent.edu.

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Carl Monday has seen some stuff.

He’s had a gun pressed to his forehead. He’s been on stakeouts. He’s ambushed corrupt politicians.

But until a couple of weeks ago, he’d never been trapped on a third-story deck in Cleveland’s Warehouse District with two strangers.

That’s how I learned that Monday is not only extremely polite but also limber.

Our pop culture columnist Mike Olszewski met Monday decades ago when they worked in radio, suggested a story and put together the following Q&A.

I tagged along with photographer Kim Stahnke for our cover shoot so I could write an introduction to Olszewski’s story. And honestly, I wanted to see for myself what kind of person Carl Monday is; I’ve only known him through his on-air persona.

Before we got a single photo, I accidentally locked us out on Monday’s rooftop deck. Thanks to athleticism, the good fortune to have a cell phone (Monday) and car keys (Stahnke), they climbed over three walls, took an outdoor staircase down from the roof and got a door key from Monday’s wife who was working nearby.

Here’s what I know: Monday tells great stories that are great because they’re true, he’s unexpectedly soft-spoken, and he’s just a little bit scary because, like I said earlier, he’s seen some stuff.

He’s also a good sport and a decent climber.

I hope you enjoy the interview.

WHO DOESN’T LIKE Monday ?

THERE’S MORE TO CARL THAN A MIC AND A CAMERA…AND ALL THOSE EMMY AWARDS

Investigators and trench coats go together like peanut butter and jelly… Sam Spade, Columbo, Dick Tracy and many more. In Northeast Ohio, no one wears the coat and the title better than veteran TV investigative reporter Carl Monday. He’s semi-retired but is still reporting, so we tracked him down to find out what he’s like when he’s not holding a mic.

Boomer: Is it fair to say there are two Carl Mondays? There’s the hard-nosed reporter who’s not afraid to get in some pretty tense situations for a TV story, and then there’s the guy talking about old records, Cleveland history and everyday stuff. Is there a dividing line somewhere?

CM: At least two! Just kidding. Even as a kid growing up in Cleveland’s Slavic Village, I always had a split personality. At St. Stanislaus, I would be serving as an altar boy at morning mass. By lunchtime, I was sitting in the principal’s office for disrupting class. One news director told me I had the most “passive/ aggressive personality” of anyone he ever met in the TV business. Thing is, I can turn it off with a flick of the switch, whether on the job or off.

Boomer: But is it tough to turn that switch? Your reputation precedes you.

CM: As time passes, your private life and public persona tend to become one and the same… at least it did in my case. The news is everywhere 24/7, so it’s difficult to get away from it. That’s not to say that, off the air, I don’t have interests that I enjoy. I’ve always been fascinated by the recording industry, collecting records and listening to music, new and old. As my wife Sandy and I transition into full retirement, we’re traveling a lot more. In just the last couple of years, we’ve vacationed in St. Lucia, Charleston and Maine, and took a river cruise in the Netherlands. We also work out five or six times a week to keep our boyish/girlish figures.

Boomer: Are people surprised to see a different side of you off-screen?

CM: Not as much as you might think. I was born and grew up in Cleveland. During our marriage, we spent one year someplace else. As Sandy often jokes, “When Carl asked

Monday’s I-Team anniversary

me to marry him, he promised me we’d see the world. In 50 years of marriage, we’ve seen Cleveland and Wichita, Kansas.” We’ve lived downtown for 25 of those years. Sandy works part-time at the downtown Heinen’s. We have a group of senior friends we hang with, and even some of the younger folks downtown. I think there’s a comfort level here.

Boomer: What’s it like going into a restaurant for the first time? Do you notice people watching you or pointing you out, maybe wondering if you’re there for something other than a meal?

CM: What I do often get is the “If Carl Monday’s eating here, the food can’t be too bad.” Always get a kick out of that. Like I’m on the Food Channel or something. Some people I run into will also say, “I bet you get good service here.” Or “I bet you get a good deal.” What I tell them is, “That may be true. But everyone is entitled to good service or the best deal they can get.”

Boomer: What is something about yourself that might surprise people?

CM: The Cuyahoga River is right outside my window. But if I ever fell in, I’d be in big trouble. I can’t swim a lick, even after taking swimming lessons three times.

Boomer: You live in the heart of downtown Cleveland? Why?

CM: Sandy and I have lived downtown in the Historic Warehouse District for 25 years. We live in a four-story townhouse. We were the first folks to build, and move into a newly constructed home downtown in 30 years. We both have worked in or near downtown. We love the convenience, not to mention the money we’ve saved on gas the past 25 years. I was on the Warehouse District Board for over 23 of those years. I grew up in the city. It feels like home. Although you never completely get used to the loud car music, motorcycles, sirens and occasional gunfire.

Boomer: You and Sandy have been together a long time. You also have a high-stress job. How do you keep the stress of the job away from your home life?

CM: Somehow, you adapt. I learned to use the stress to my advantage during my years on the job. But to be honest, it hit me like a brick wall when I retired from full-time work. I like to call it TV-PTSD. Five years later, I’m still trying to wind down, after years of deadlines, threats and lawsuits.

Boomer: You’re semi-retired. Any thoughts on officially saying, “I’m done” at some point?

CM: I still air an I-Team story on Fox 8 during the three ratings periods of February, May and November. Don’t know if I’ll ever retire. Still have that book to write.

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

Becoming Carl Monday

Most people know Carl Monday from his TV reports; the tough reporter who asks tough questions in tough circumstances, but that’s not the way he started out. We asked Monday about his career evolution, image and the future of TV news.

BOOMER: Based on the stories you’ve chased down and the way you’ve covered them, you can be an intimidating presence. Are people a little nervous when they first meet you?

CM: To be truthful, some people can be somewhat guarded when they meet me. I try to assure them that I’m “off the clock.” Of course, that’s never totally true. A good reporter is always on the clock. On the other hand, I meet people who will take me aside and say, “Don’t tell anyone where you got this from... but...”

BOOMER: If you weren’t an investigative reporter, what could you see yourself doing? Was there a “Plan B”?

CM: When I entered Kent State as a freshman in 1969, I wanted to get into the music business, working for a big record company. But two things happened. I quickly realized the music business had a hidden side that I didn’t want to be a part of. Secondly, the Kent State Shootings occurred months later. Not long after, I found myself working news at the WKSU-TV station and KSU RADIO-TV Information. I never looked back.

I never had a plan B. I was already on commercial radio as a senior in high school. I was the sports and music editor of my high school paper (Go, Garfield Bulldogs!) But looking back, I might have enjoyed a career perhaps in urban renewal and design, or even home design. I’m hooked on HGTV. Oh yeah, in fifth grade, I wanted to be a priest.

BOOMER: Do you have a favorite story? Was there a story that might have gotten away?

CM: By far, the story viewers most often bring up is the one involving my confrontation with George Forbes over his delinquent water bill. We recently aired an update on Fox8, 40 years to the date the story first aired. My personal favorite may be the one I did on restaurants and caterers tossing perfectly edible food in the dumpster. As a result of the story, we started Food Rescue, that picks up otherwise wasted food and delivers it to the poor. Thirtyfive years and millions of pounds later,

the program is still in operation as part of the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. As far as those I missed, there have been a few. Remember Jimmy DiMora? Yeah, we had tips on him and his buddy Frank Russo long before the FBI raid. I learned the hard way to take every tip seriously.

BOOMER: We are in a far different media landscape than even a few years ago. “AI”-generated news, dwindling ad revenue for traditional media having an effect on news staffs, younger people opting for online news and social media, and on and on. You were on TV news in its prime. Will there even be TV news as we know it a decade from now?

CM: Local news is in a precarious position, and so are the networks. You’re right about right place, right time. I made a good living, doing what I loved to do for nearly 50 years. I still get a kick out of viewers coming up to me with a, “Get away from me, Carl Monday” or, “One of these days I’m gonna take that camera and wrap it around your @$#&*!!” (phrases borrowed from one of my investigations).

BOOMER: Assuming, of course, they aren’t serious.

And if you were wondering… Carl Monday wasn’t always a Monday, or any other day of the week. He was Carl Stylinski, but has used “Monday” since 1970 and changed his name legally to Monday in 1972. His wife Sandy has always been a Monday.

Here’s the story behind the name in Monday’s words:

“As a freshman at Kent, I was a day away from my first DJ show on the campus radio station WKSU.

Over a couple of beers, my dorm roommates and I kicked around some names. Someone suggested Carl Alexander, after the Robert Wagner played character on ABC “It Takes a Thief,” Alexander Mundy.

I shook my head. Someone else recommended Carl Day. But there was already a Carl Day on a Canton radio station. Well, how about “Carl Monday?” another roomie suggested.

“That’s it!” I shouted. And from that day on… I became Carl Monday.”

YOUR MONEY

Riders Life Insurance

FOR LONG-TERM CARE

It’s time to embrace the outdoors, relish the sunshine, and soak in the energy that only summer can bring.

Planning for today is great, but don’t forget to plan for tomorrow, too. That brings us to the topic of long-term care, a more serious topic than making the most out of summer but arguably a more important and far-reaching one.

If you're thinking about buying a stand-alone long-term care insurance (LTCI) policy, you might have another option. An increasing number of states, including Ohio, permit the sale of long-term care hybrid products that allow you to obtain long-term care coverage with a special rider added to your life insurance policy.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

When it comes to long-term care, you might be able to add an acceleration rider to your life insurance policy that will allow you to tap into (accelerate) your death benefit if you need long-term care during your life.

For such a rider to take effect, most insurers require a prognosis of death within 12 months, and your benefits may be limited to a percentage of the face amount in your policy. Your death benefit will be reduced by the amount of benefits you receive. If your long-term care costs are high, you may eventually deplete your death benefit (assuming your policy allows it). This would negate the original purpose of your life insurance policy—to provide financially for family members after you die.

Long-term care riders differ from company to company. Some reimburse you for long-term care expenses as they're incurred, up to the limit set by the rider. In other cases, you may receive a percentage of the death benefit each month, which you can apply to long-term care expenses. Before you purchase a rider, make sure you understand exactly how you'll be reimbursed.

You’ll also want to know what triggers the prepayment of your death benefit that can be used for long-term care. For example, does needing home health care entitle you to benefits, or will you need to be chronically ill and unable to perform at least three activities of daily living to start receiving benefits?

WHAT’S BEST FOR ME?

Opinions differ on whether an acceleration rider can be an adequate substitute for a separate LTCI policy. The answer depends in part on the size of your life insurance policy, the money you'll receive while the policy is in force to pay your long-term care costs, and how much long-term care is expected to cost when you need it.

If you do the math, you'll probably discover that an acceleration rider on your life insurance policy won't cover all of your long-term care expenses, giving you a false sense of security. Plus, the benefits may exhaust the policy’s life insurance payout.

Stand-alone LTCI policies can be costly depending on your age, health, and benefits. If these costs are prohibitive, a rider on your insurance policy may be a middle-ground solution. A rider allows you to tap into money if you need long-term care (even if that means less for your surviving loved ones). Contact an insurance professional for more information.

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.

CAREGIVER CORNER

Make the Most of Your

MEDICAL APPOINTMENT

Most of us don’t look forward to a doctor’s appointment. Parking is a hassle, wait times can be long, and we rarely see the same doctor if they’re in a group practice.

A medical practice can include not only a team of doctors but also a rotation of CNPs (Certified Nurse Practitioners) and PAs (physician assistants). They collaborate to provide immediate and follow-up care and often span several locations, ensuring we get care when our regular doctor isn’t available. For those reasons, it is important to make the most of a medical appointment, both yours and a loved one’s.

There are many things you can do to make the most of every medical appointment:

• Schedule appointments when they fit your schedule best. This is not always an option but when it is, consider you or your loved one’s pain level, mobility, drive time, bathroom schedule, meal and medication schedule and other issues.

• Think about the goal of the appointment. What is the issue, what do you want to discuss and how will you explain the concern(s)? Take time to think, plan and be prepared before the appointment. If you are reporting

symptoms, keep a list so you can report accurate data. Include the date, time of day, severity, and what you did to try to address the symptoms. Summarize the information before the appointment so you can easily discuss it.

• Know your medications; what they are for, how long you have been taking them, and who prescribes them.

• Know your allergies; if you had a reaction, when and what occurred.

• Write questions and specific details down so you are prepared. Prioritize your concerns; you may not get to cover multiple issues so start with what is most important.

• Ask questions and make sure you understand the answer. Repeat or summarize what the medical provider said. Don’t be afraid to ask the medical provider to talk slower, louder or to repeat information if you have difficulty understanding.

• Keep a medical log of appointments, recommendations, what has been tried, what worked and what has not worked. Information is important; know your history and how to summarize it.

• If you are not comfortable with your medical provider or want a

second opinion, switch providers or get a second opinion. It amazes me how many of us are uncomfortable or feel it is inappropriate to get a second opinion. Fear of questioning or offending the provider is typically the main concern. I always ask clients when they need diagnostic or repair work done on their cars or items around their house, do they get at least two assessments/estimates before making a choice? Why is our health any different? Getting a second opinion is just that; an opinion from another source. Medical providers give their best opinion, based on their knowledge and experience.

Navigating today’s busy health care system takes time and energy, which might already be low if you or your loved one have a chronic condition. Speak up and take action to meet your own or your loved one’s needs. Being prepared is the best way to get the most out of your health care team and your medical appointment.

Jennifer Beach is an Advanced Aging Life Care Professional. She established Advocate for Elders (advocate4elders.com) in Rocky River and has 25 years of experience working with and advocating for older adults and their families.

Community Focus BEACHWOOD

A Place to Call Home Community Focus

Marcia and David Cromer have lived in Beachwood since 2001. They were initially attracted to the city because of the beauty of the neighborhoods and the location.

“I've always traveled through the community and noticed how well the properties were maintained. The proximity to my family was also pretty key. My parents were older, and I wanted to be very close to where they were. Living in Beachwood allowed us to be 10 minutes away if my parents needed anything,” Marcia says.

Although the location brought her

BEACHWOOD

to Beachwood, she stayed because of the community. Marcia says, “I love the community. I love the benefits of living here. I like that my property value has increased over the years. Everyone, from the onset, was just very friendly.”

A Good Fit

Beachwood is more than just a place to live, it’s a community. The city of Beachwood has a summer block party program to help residents build connections and community with their neighbors. Marcia has attended a number of the block parties over

the years. One of her favorite party memories was when a symphony performed for residents.

“I really appreciated the efforts of the city to reach out to people during the pandemic. We weren't really seeing each other much. It was really nice to sit outside in our lawn chairs and listen to the symphony play.”

The city’s community center is another asset she takes advantage of, attending drawing classes since 2017, and participating in Zumba, art shows and other special events. “There’s always something going on at the community center,” Marcia says.

BEACHWOOD Community Focus

There are several hidden benefits that the city offers in addition to encouraging an active senior community, she adds.

“I really love the free shred days where you can take your confidential documents to the city for shredding. They even have an old medication drop-off at the police station. These are things people take for granted. If you haven’t lived in Beachwood your adult life, then you know that a lot of these opportunities aren't available to other communities. I like seeing my tax dollars at work, and I think the taxes are reasonable for what you get.”

Safety is something that many people cite as another benefit to living in Beachwood, and it’s something that the city leadership prioritizes. Marcia appreciates the work that the police department does and said that, “Anything you need, they are there. I just can't commend them enough.”

Living in Beachwood

What makes Beachwood so attractive is its ability to cater to a diverse range of needs—it's a place where everyone can find their niche. The city's reputation for exceptional schools, safe neighborhoods, and prime location contributes to the stability and desirability of the housing market.

There are a variety of housing styles, from single-family homes to condos, townhouses, apartments, and senior-specific housing.

With tree-lined streets and wellmaintained properties, the diverse architectural offerings ensure a robust real estate market and competitive property values. Beachwood offers a tranquil and secure environment where residents can enjoy peace of mind. With well-maintained neighborhoods and a vigilant community, safety is prioritized,

ensuring a sense of security for all who call Beachwood home. The city provides many services at no extra charge. These include services that residents in other cities typically pay for themselves—things like sidewalk repair and snow removal, senior transportation, and rubbish and recycling removal. One of the newest services is the Rust Belt Riders Composting Program. This program is free for all residents and is designed to minimize waste and promote sustainability in the city.

Community Life

RW and Connie Strong moved to Beachwood in 1979 because of the schools. They raised three children who graduated from Beachwood High School—the classes of 1985, 1987 and 1988. Two of their children moved back to Beachwood to raise their children, which means RW and Connie Strong have four

BEACHWOOD Community Focus

grandchildren who graduated from Beachwood Schools, as well.

Connie says, “I wasn’t a senior when we first moved to Beachwood. But now I am navigating through senior life. Beachwood Community Center is a place where seniors can come together to support, encourage and enjoy one another. It’s like a family. I love the programs. There is so much to do, and there is always something that keeps us updated with various life changes and keeps us involved. I don’t think there’s anything I have to leave Beachwood to get for seniors.”

Beachwood is dedicated to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle among its residents. With numerous parks, recreational facilities and outdoor spaces, there's no shortage of opportunities for residents to embrace wellness and enjoy the outdoors. Whether it's a leisurely stroll through the park, a workout session utilizing the outdoor exercise equipment, or a family outing to the Beachwood Family Aquatic Center, there's something for everyone to do.

Community Services Director Derek Schroeder says, “I see the community center as the hub of what's going on in the city. We try to spoil the seniors. We appreciate what they've done here in Beachwood. We want them to have positive experiences. We want them to get out of the house and come socialize.”

To support that goal, the

Community Services Department has a director dedicated to older adult programming. Activities include different card games and Mahjong, a tile game. The city hosts a monthly luncheon where older adults can eat lunch while enjoying a program.

There are a number of different programs around the different arts including music, painting classes and storytelling. There are even technology classes and programs on how to get a book published. Beachwood also offers movies, trips, and concerts for older adults. A big community event is National Night Out, an event that happens all over the country to celebrate the police department and its role in the community.

The community center offers a full circle of activities to keep active, physically and mentally. Schroeder says, “One lady here is 99 years old, and she comes to her exercise class

three times a week.

Sally and Bud Rich, both 91, have lived in Beachwood since 1986. Sally says, “All the senior adult programs are wonderful. I take Silver Sneakers classes at the community center, which doesn’t cost me any money because of our health insurance and it’s a terrific class.”

Beachwood also offers selfdefense classes, balance seminars, and programs on improving mental health. This will be the first full summer with six new pickleball courts, which include teams, leagues, tournaments, lessons and open play.

When planning programs, Beachwood looks for ways to make programs accessible for participants with mobility challenges.

Sally says, “I’ve taken a tour of the Cleveland Metroparks that explained the Metroparks and what was growing. They took participants around on a cart throughout the tour.” The accommodation was helpful because her husband is unable to walk.

Beachwood offers a senior van service that operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The van provides door-to-door service within 10 miles of the city. Free for residents, last year the van provided around 1,000 rides to places such as doctor’s offices, grocery stores, community events and other activities.

Schroeder says, “We have a great team of drivers here. We pick up some people weekly, while others we pick up multiple times a week. It's very appreciated by these seniors and the family members of the seniors that utilize the service. It's

BEACHWOOD Community Focus

great that we're able to offer that.”

Schroeder also encourages residents to provide suggestions if they have ideas for programming. For those who are more entrepreneurial in Beachwood, whether full-time, parttime, or on the side, the city is home to the active Beachwood Chamber of Commerce, which also hosts the Women of Beachwood Chamber of Commerce Coffee Hour.

1. Beachwood Library

In addition to the programming through the community center, the Beachwood Public Library is a wonderful resource. Tracy Strobel, Cuyahoga County Library CEO, says “Beachwood is such a library-loving community. It’s one of the busiest branches. Seniors love to come to the branch. We have a lot

of senior-focused programming and just about every program offered there fills up with grateful and curious seniors who love to learn and to continue their lifelong learning and also to mingle with each other. It’s a great source of community there.”

There are a variety of programs across diverse interests including the arts, music and history. There are also author events, book discussions, and even cooking classes. Beachwood Library also provides space for other community groups that serve residents and seniors. Beachwood Library Manager Amia Wheatley says, “We try to make sure we've got programming that's relevant to the times in addition to regular library services. We also do a lot of outreach. We have a table at the Beachwood Fall Fest and sometimes other city events. We also do a lot of outreach to the Maltz Museum. We try to be here for the community.”

2. Location

One of the benefits to Beachwood, in addition to housing, is its location. Beachwood is centrally located so it’s easy to get to many other locations. Positioned east of Cleveland, Beachwood offers easy access to major highways, making it ideal for commuters and travelers. It’s also only 30 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Premier shopping—including Beachwood Place—dining, parks, and The Maltz Museum and other cultural attractions further enrich the area.

3. Dog Park

Not forgetting the furry companions, Barkwood provides a space for dogs to roam and play, fostering a sense of community among pet owners. With an astroturf surface, and key-fob entry system, Barkwood is a popular amenity among Beachwood’s dog owners.

BALANCE SOLUTIONS

Balance Solutions Physical Therapy offers personalized rehabilitation services to restore mobility, strength and confidence. With a multidisciplinary approach, our highly skilled therapists assess each client's unique needs to develop tailored treatment plans. Through evidencebased techniques, including manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and modalities, we address issues ranging from orthopedic injuries to neurological and age-related conditions. We aim to empower individuals to regain independence and optimize their functional abilities, promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Special Advertiser Listings

The Institute for Learning in Retirement East affiliated with Baldwin Wallace University provides affordable college-level courses for seniors, taught by former professors, teachers, and professionals who are experts in their subject matter: art appreciation, Cleveland sports, history and more. Members pay a small annual fee and a per-class fee to access classes, travel, and events. Classes meet at Temple Emanu El in Orange Village. To learn more: bw.edu/ilr, 440-826-2400, ilreast@bw.edu.

CITY OF BEACHWOOD

Consistently rated a top suburb in Northeast Ohio, the City of Beachwood warmly welcomes new residents and visitors. Residents will find comfort in a community that prioritizes the ability to age in place with access to world-class healthcare, beautifully maintained housing, top-notch first responders, highly rated schools, recreational opportunities and dedicated city services such as free van transportation. Visitors can experience shopping among luxury brands, premier dining, and nearby cultural attractions. Discover where you belong at BeachwoodOhio.com.

ELLIE MENTAL HEALTH

At Ellie, our mission is to transform the mental health culture by making wellness accessible. We know that caring for your mental health and being vulnerable with someone you just met can seem scary. We do everything that we can to make each appointment as comfortable and as fun as possible. We aim to walk along this journey with you and provide a comfortable place to talk, decompress, do the work, and heal.

HOME INSTEAD

Home Instead is committed to high-quality non-medical senior care. We have reliable, experienced, background-checked care professionals with nurse-led

training. We specialize in Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, respite care, personal care and more. With locations in Oakwood, Brecksville, Pepper Pike and Chagrin Falls, we can provide surrounding communities with oneon-one personalized care, family educational events, resources, and local support. Call 440-914-1400 today to experience compassionate care.

MALTZ MUSEUM

This summer at the Maltz Museum, visitors are invited to explore the rich framework of families found in America with two art exhibitions and interactive children’s activities. On view from June 1 to Sept. 2, “A

Celebration of Family'' combines two art exhibitions, “Growing Up Jewish—Art & Storytelling and Love Makes a Family” and “Portraits of LGBTQ+ People and Their Families” that present paintings, photographs, and interviews. It takes visitors on a creative journey that celebrates families from all walks of life. For more info ticket pricing, and group tour discounts visit maltzmuseum. org or call 206-593-0575.

ROSE SENIOR LIVING

Rose Senior Living offers an unparalleled senior living experience in Beachwood. With a focus on comfort, community, and care, our community provides a vibrant environment where residents can thrive. From spacious apartments to personalized care plans, we prioritize

the well-being of our residents. Enjoy gourmet dining, engaging activities, and exceptional amenities tailored to your needs. Experience the next chapter of life with peace of mind and a sense of belonging at Rose Senior Living Beachwood. Discover more at beachwood. roseseniorliving.com.

THE HIATUS

Indulge in luxury living at The Hiatus, a premier, resort-style apartment community in the heart of Beachwood. The Hiatus boasts modern apartments with open floor plans, gourmet kitchens, and spa-inspired bathrooms. The Hiatus lifestyle is centered around wellness and relaxation. Residents enjoy our upscale amenities like the outdoor pool, 24/7 fitness center with sauna and steam rooms, movie theater, game room, co-working space, rooftop lounge, and more. Discover a new standard of luxe living in Beachwood. luxuryhiatus.com 216-333-6321.

VELOCITY CLINICAL RESEARCH

Their vision is to improve lives by making clinical research accessible to all. Their mission is to improve the clinical research process to accelerate the delivery of new therapies and provide exceptional care to the community. Give them a call at 216682-0320 to discuss what programs would best fit you and your lifestyle.

YOUR RECOVERY COUNSELING

Your Recovery Counseling, a beacon of hope honored with the Beachwood Ohio Spirit of Success Award, adheres to the highest standards of care in the realms of addiction and mental health. YRC offers a lifeline to those battling addiction and mental health challenges. “Our firm commitment to patient empowerment and our respect for a person’s right to selfdetermination is encapsulated in our philosophy “Healing Begins With You,” says CEO Sadigoh Galloway. 216-483-1001 or yourrecoverystarts.com

We had a Great Time in the Country

Whew. That was a good one.

We hope you had a chance to drop by for our Boomer Bash West last month at Westlake’s LaCentre. Cowboy hats, boots and denim: You wore them well.

The Bash is like no other in Northeast Ohio, featuring music, food and raffles. We had square dancing, a sketch artist and a photo booth plus dozens of vendor tables so attendees could learn about businesses and organizations that serve people 55 and older.

If you missed this Bash, don’t worry. We’ve got another coming up June 27 from 4-6 p.m. at Mentor’s LaMalfa. Our theme this time: Rad ‘80s. The first 500 people to register get in free. Go to our website northeastohioboomer. com for details.

Thank You

to Our Exhibitors

A & M Financial Group Inc.

440.249.0397 ext. 106 amfinancialgroup.com

Aetna 330.842.0129 aetna.com

All American Gutter Protection 216.346.9363 allamericangutterprotection.com

Apex Skin 330.607.1454 ApexSkin.com

Asset Protection

814.860.3101 assetprotectionltd.com

At Home Senior Fitness

614.579.1336 athomeseniorfitness.net

Bath Fitter

440.926.6331 bathfitter.com

Benjamin Rose 216.791.8000 benrose.org

Berson-Sokol Agency Inc. 216.464.1542 berson-sokol.com

Better Business Bureau

216.413.7678 bbb.org

Center for Aging in the Digital World 440.787.2020 empowerseniors.org

Centering Space

216.228.7451 centeringspace.org

Cleveland East Senior Network 216.409.8140 cle-eastseniornetwork.com

Dedicated Senior Medical Center 216.906.1479 dedicated.care

Devoted Health Plans 330.730.7649 devoted.com

Echo Hospice of Cleveland 216.400.9055 echohospice.com

Foundations Health Solutions 216.570.0460 foundationshealth.net

Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers of Westlake 440.385.7278 fyzical.com/westlake-oh

The Ganzhorn Suites Specialized Memory Care 440.294.1500 ganzhornsuites.com

Greater Cleveland Volunteers 216.391.9500 greaterclevelandvolunteers.org

House Doctors of Strongsville 216.452.8995 housedoctors.com/strongsville/

Humana 216.816.5645 humana.com

Institute for Learning in Retirement 440.826.3188 ilrbw.org

It’s Just Lunch Cleveland 216.328.9000 itsjustlunchcleveland.com

Ed Huck Team Keller Williams Citywide 440.617.2500 edhuckteam.com

Kendal at Home 440.788.7962 kendalathome.org

LeafGuard of Cleveland 330.304.5828 leafguard.com

Long Term Care Ombudsman 216.696.2719 ltco.org

Maltz Performing Arts Center 216.368.0295 case.edu/maltzcenter

Marcum Wealth 440.459.5921 marcumwealth.com

Medical Mutual of Ohio medmutual.com

Joseph L. Motta Co., LPA 440.930.2826 josephlmotta.com

Reserve Hearing Center 440.376.5405 reservehearing.com

Right at Home 216.350.3530 rightathome.net/rocky-river

Road Scholar 800.454.5768 roadscholar.org

Sprenger HealthCare Systems 440.989.5200 sprengerhealthcare.com

St. Mary of the Woods 440.937.3111 atriumlivingcenters.com

United Healthcare 216.407.2406 unitedhealthcare.com

Unity Catholic Federal Credit Union 888.815.6571 unitycatholiccu.org

Wellcare 844.917.0175 wellcare.com/Ohio

Spry Senior provides holistic primary care focused on prevention, as well as the management of chronic and complex medical conditions, for patients 58 and older. Our dedicated team of exceptional providers offers longer appointment times and sees patients more often through in-person and virtual visits. This keeps us connected to our patients and responsive to changes in their health while keeping them engaged in their care.

Spry Senior is centered on the belief that your best life starts with a connection to health care, wellness and community, bringing all three together under one service.

Dedicated to Health Care For Those 58 and Older

Presented by Spry Senior

Patients will have a dedicated primary care provider, along with the conveniences of an on-site lab, free door-to-doctor transportation for those who need it, and sameday appointment access. Because Spry Senior believes in promoting a socially active and healthy lifestyle and a strong connection to friends and neighbors, we offer on-site community activities and education at our larger centers.

Hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Spry Senior accepts major insurance plans. To schedule an appointment, call 440-592-6200 or sign into MyChart at mychart. sprysenior.com to book online.

Spry Senior is accepting new patients. To learn more, call for a personalized tour at any location and visit us at sprysenior.com to check out our latest community event calendar.

Convenient Locations to Serve You:

• 5855 Harper Road, Suite A, Solon, OH 44139

• 15201 Pearl Road, Strongsville, OH 44136

• 14770 Snow Road, Brook Park, OH 44142

Let’s SPRY Together

Choices & Quality with Global Meals

Presented by Global Meals

Global Meals has been the premier leader in providing home-delivered meals since the summer of 2006. Our first delivery route consisted of 16 people who are still relying on our services today.

Eighteen years later, we proudly serve over 17,000 consumers across all 88 counties in Ohio and parts of Indiana. Our focus is steadfast in providing nutritious and delicious meals for seniors and adults with disabilities. Certified by ODA & Medicaid, we provide meals to individuals enrolled in Medicaid Waiver, MyCare Ohio, DODD, and local city levy programs.

We understand that people have diverse dietary needs; we offer meals tailored to Kosher, vegetarian, vegan, sodiumcontrolled, and gluten-restricted diets. Our menu includes frozen, refrigerated, and shelf-stable meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We have flexible delivery options, whether customers require weekly, biweekly or monthly meals.

Our executive chefs design menus that are approved by licensed dietitians. We take great pride in providing meals that not only taste great but also meet our consumers’ nutritional needs. Whether someone is recovering from an illness, managing a chronic disease, or desires independence, Global Meals is here to provide convenient and nutritious meal solutions.

We offer a complete nutritional solution, ensuring our consumers receive top-quality meals and exceptional service. We serve our customers with dedication and compassion, understanding the significance of a healthy and balanced diet in maintaining overall well-being. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey towards better health and independence. Choose Global Meals for the best meal delivery experience.

Groundbreaking Advancements with Oticon Intent

Imagine if there was a hearing aid that understood what you wanted to listen to. There is!

HearingLife is proud to introduce the Oticon Intent, the world’s first hearing aid with user-intent sensors. New sensor-driven BrainHearing™ technology uses your movements, the environment and the conversation around you to recognize what you want and need to listen to and adapts seamlessly to deliver truly personalized support.

Oticon Intent helps you to engage in life like never before, offering:

• Exceptional clarity: Enhances and balances the full spectrum of

sound so you can embrace conversations with better understanding.

• More comfort: Seamlessly adapts to your surroundings, making listening feel more effortless and comfortable.

• Enhanced confidence: Trained to mimic how the brain learns sound, the smart technology inside Intent helps conversations flow naturally.

The Oticon Intent BTE (behind-theear) is sleek and compact. With nine color options to match your hair, skin color or unique style, you can choose how hidden you want it to be. Its rechargeable battery gives users up to 20 hours of battery life and recharges quickly. Control and personalization of your hearing devices are easy with the Oticon Companion app. The app lets you find lost or misplaced hearing aids, take phone calls, connect to your devices and chat with a hearing care expert. What could be more convenient?

Visit your local HearingLife office for a complimentary demonstration of this remarkable new technology. Go to hearinglife. com to schedule your convenient appointment today.

For over 60 years, O’Neill Healthcare has remained family-owned and operated and highly rated in Ohio, upholding a cherished legacy of compassionate care within the John O’Neill Family. Renowned across Greater Cleveland, O’Neill Healthcare has a steadfast reputation for delivering comprehensive senior care. Across its six communities in Bay Village, Fairview Park, Lakewood, Middleburg Heights, North Olmsted and North Ridgeville, the commitment remains unwavering: to furnish the utmost in health care services, coupled with genuine respect and concern for every resident and family member.

O’Neill Healthcare offers Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care, Hospice and Palliative Care, Dialysis, Rehabilitative Therapies, Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs, and Stroke Rehabilitation. The excellence of O’Neill Healthcare communities is emphasized by their

Excellent Care at Every Level

Best Nursing Home by Newsweek and Statista, distinguished as number one in Ohio.

O’Neill Healthcare offers Assisted Living in Bay Village, Lakewood, North Olmsted, and North Ridgeville, integrating residential accommodation with personalized care services, meals, medication management, and health care assistance as required. It serves residents who don't need skilled medical care but want support with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as dressing, bathing and meal preparation.

Assisted Living residents get 24/7 care within the privacy of their apartment. Dedicated activities staff curate engagements and community outings to enrich residents’ lives while chef-prepared meals are overseen by registered dietitians, guaranteeing nutritional value.

Apartments include three daily meals and snacks, nursing supervision and nurse aide support 24/7, kitchenette, easy-access bathroom with a walk-in shower, emergency call cords in every room, satellite service and local phone plus activities by dedicated staff members. There's also housekeeping and laundry service, onsite beauty salon, transportation to appointments, medication administration and physical/ occupational/speech therapy services. Call or text for a private tour: 216-386-6687.

New Year. New Card?

In 2018, Medicare cards were updated by replacing a person’s Social Security number with a random identifier that includes numbers and letters. That was the last time the card was updated and there is no plan to update it again.

What Does the Card Look Like?

The card from Medicare is a paper card that has a blue banner on the top, a white middle, and a red banner on the bottom. However, you can print your own in black and white.

Examples of Medicare Card Scams

Someone calls you, claiming:

• You are getting a new, plastic Medicare card

• Medicare is switching to a card with a chip in it

• It’s a new year so you need a new card

• You need a black-and-white card

• They need your Medicare number to see if you have received your new one yet

• They need you to verify your Medicare number so they can confirm you have the correct Medicare card

What Can You Do to Stop New Medicare Card Scams?

• Only answer calls from numbers you recognize

• Do not confirm your Medicare number or answer “Yes” to any question

• Guard your Medicare card and number like a credit card. Don’t share your number, laminate it, make copies, or let anyone else make a copy.

How Can Your Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) Help?

Your Ohio SMP is ready to provide you with the information you need to PROTECT yourself from Medicare fraud, errors and abuse. We can help you with questions, concerns or complaints about potential fraud and abuse issues. If you mistakenly gave a caller your Medicare number, let us know. We can help check your Medicare account for suspected fraud and then help to get it resolved. We can be reached at 800-293-4767.

Cleveland Senior Network

Laugh & Support a Worthy Cause at “Not a Day Over Fabulous”

Cleveland Senior Network is here for you, Networking with a Heart, for every step of the aging process. Each Cleveland Senior Network member has the professional know-how and the personal mission to serve the community with compassionate, skilled senior services.

You can contact any of the professionals in the Network to build a support team that will best serve your changing needs. Call upon the expert services provided by our dedicated board members and sponsors listed on this page.

And remember to laugh along the way.

Back by popular demand and once again sponsored by the Cleveland Senior Network, the rib-tickling musical comedy revue, “Not a Day Over Fabulous,” returns to the live stage. We can

all laugh about the foibles of aging while ticket proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association’s The Longest Day Campaign.

This original set of rib-tickling vignettes and musical spoofs set to ‘70s rock hits is the brainchild of playwright and director Jill KoslenFreireich and will, once again, be performed by local actors. Through songs, dances, skits, and monologues, they satirize all-too-familiar aging predicaments you can relate to and

We will be at a different venue this year. Two-hour performances will be on Saturday, June 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, June 9 at 3 p.m. at Disciples

Christian Church at 3663 Mayfield Road in Cleveland Heights. Then join us for a dessert reception following each show.

Ticket price is $20.00. Pre-purchase tickets for “Not a Day Over Fabulous” on eventbrite. com or get them at the door. For questions please contact Melinda at 216-409-8140.

If you cannot attend this fun event, you can still support our local fundraiser for The Longest Day on the Alzheimer’s Association website act.alz. org/goto/CLESeniorNetMusical. or at clevelandseniornetwork.org.

The Longest Day refers to the day of the year with the most light — the summer solstice—when people around the world will combat the darkness of Alzheimer’s through a fundraising activity of their choice. Help us ease the burdensome journey of Alzheimer’s for local patients and their families through the gift of laughter. See you at the show!

Board Members Sponsors

Caring Hospice Services: Quality, compassionate hospice care at the time you need it most. Providing unique, holistic, cost-effective hospice care meeting social, emotional, spiritual and physical needs of patients and families facing terminal illness.

Eva M. Konya, MBA, BSN, RN, Director of Business Operations, Independence. 216-524-5500, 216-678-3153, ekonya@caringhospice.com

Five Star Clinical Solutions: As Patient Advocates, we ensure you receive the best possible medical care and services.

Robera Brofman, President/Founder: 216-513-9622, roberta@fivestarclinical.com, fivestarclinical.com

Howard Hanna Real Estate Services:

Stephanie McFearin, Realtor expert for Northeast Ohio. Call, text or email anytime for info on a free market analysis or buyer consultation.

Stephanie McFearin, REALTOR®: 440-554-7712, StephanieMcFearin@HowardHanna.com

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

Alert Care: Push-of-a-Button Emergency Help. Assisting aging and disabled communities to achieve greater independence in their daily lives. Locally owned and operated.

Kent Bondi, Owner: 216-381-5598, contact@alertcareohio.com, alertcareohio.com

North Coast Residential: Advocates for seniors making a move, helping to plan your transition and the sale of your home with unsurpassed service, care and dignity. We provide free confidential consultations. Call us.

Lee-Ann Spacek, CRB, SRES, President & Broker: 216-5136800, LSpacek@NorthCoastRelo.com

Rocking Mobility: Repair-Rent-Sales of durable medical equipment, from wheelchairs and power mobility devices to hospital beds plus bath and home safety equipment.

Marsha Adair, President & Co-Owner: 216-356-6984, rockingmobility.com

The Pane Agency: This unique insurance agency offers Medicare, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Employee Benefits, Veterans Needs and Life Resources.

Michael Pane - Cratsley Pane Agency Office: 716-526-8450, Cell: 585-626-9455; cpinsagency1@outlook.com; facebook. com/ThePaneAgency

Contact a board member for help or to volunteer. clevelandseniornetwork.org

IMATURE LIVING SHOWCASE

Sponsored Content

THE BENEFITS OF LIVING NEAR WATER

f you’re looking for the perfect home during retirement, we suggest going somewhere near water. Those who live close to bodies of water often experience fewer health problems as they age, creating a better quality of life.

When you spend time outside by water, you’re getting fresh air, soaking in vitamin D, oxygenating your blood, and releasing endorphins, making you calmer and healthier. Plus, spending at least 120 minutes a week in natural

better health; pleasant surroundings make people seek activities outside and experience fewer health problems. Living near water can allow you to be more active, more relaxed, or find a perfect balance of both. This could be a time to do mindful exercises with yoga and meditation, get active by swimming or fishing, and stay creative through

Regular exercise and reduced stress from living near water will improve your sleep; being away from city noise prevents disruptive sounds or smog from keeping you up at night. As we age, we want to live a comfortable and adventurous life. At Concord Reserve, you can fill your days through various refreshing and revitalizing activities. Schedule your tour today to enjoy the best years of

HEALTH CARE FOCUS: HOME HEALTH CARE

Home Health Agency Checklist

FIND QUALITY CARE

It can be tough to find good care. Use this checklist when choosing a home health agency.

1. Medicare certified?

2. Medicaid certified (if you have both Medicare and Medicaid)?

3. Offers the specific health care services needed such as skilled nursing services or physical therapy?

4. Meets special needs, like language or cultural preferences?

5. Offers the personal care services needed like help bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom?

6. Offers the support services needed or can help arrange for additional services, like a meal delivery service? (NOTE: These types of services aren’t generally covered by Medicare).

7. Has staff that can give the type and hours of care the doctor ordered and start when needed?

8. Is recommended by the hospital discharge planner, doctor, or social worker?

9. Has staff available at night and on weekends for emergencies?

10. Explains what insurance will cover and what must be paid out-of-pocket?

11. Have letters from satisfied patients, family members, and doctors that testify to the home health agency providing good care?

Content

Source: Medicare.gov

Home Instead

25 Years of Exceptional Care

For over 25 years, Home Instead has been a pillar of nonmedical home health care in Beachwood, specializing in Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, respite, personal care, and more. Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through ongoing training and education at our Learning Center, ensuring our caregivers are skilled and reliable.

With a dedicated team, we’ve been recognized for four years as a top workplace—locally and nationally, with a remarkable 90% retention rate among 300+ care professionals, many with over 15 years of experience. Our tagline, “To Us, It’s Personal,” reflects our dedication to personalized care, helping clients maintain independence where they call home.

We believe in personalized care at Home Instead. Our nurses, care managers and staff live in Beachwood and surrounding communities. Our mission is to provide exceptional care tailored to clients’ needs while offering dementia and wellness education for families, enhancing community well-being.

Home Instead has garnered numerous accolades in Northeast Ohio, including awards for Most Meaningful Place to Work, Innovation, Leadership in the Community, and Education and Training Excellence. Owner and president Margie Orth was honored as Beachwood Woman of the Year.

Home Instead looks forward to continuing to grow and provide unparalleled care to Beachwood and beyond. Visit homeinstead.com/116 or contact Nancy Goffman at 440-9141400 for more details.

What’s Happening

WEDNESDAYS

Lakewood

Front Porch Concert Series

Free, live music in a welcoming environment. 7 p.m. Lakewood Public Library, lakewoodalive.org FREE

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Summer Music Nights

CLASSES

TUESDAYS

Watercolor Pencils. Learn classic drawing skills, design, composition and terminology. 6-8 p.m. 6/4-7/18. Fairmount Center for the Arts, 8400 Fairmount Road, Novelty, fairmountcenter.org. $90

WEDNESDAYS

Writer’s Salon. Dip into poetry, memoir and prose through lively conversation and creative writing activities. 7-8:45 p.m. 6/5-7/31. Bay Arts, 28795 Lake Road, Bay Village, bayarts.net. $185

THURSDAYS

Bachata 1. Native to the Dominican Republic. Learn to dance island style! Perfect for those who claim to have “2 left feet.” 6:15-7 p.m. LESALSA Dance Studio, 17108 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, lesalsa. com. First Class FREE

SATURDAYS

Loom Weaving. Learn how to calculate your warp, dress the loom, and weave a sampler, using many different types of 4-harness weaves. 2-4:30 p.m. The Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 Mill St. W., peninsulaartacademy.com. $25

6/1

Funkology, Jump the Gun, Monica Robins, Backtraxx and more. 7-9 p.m. 7/5-8/23. First & Main Green, Hudson, firstandmainhudson. com. FREE

Farming Fungi at Home. Learn easy ways to grow oyster mushrooms at home. 1:30-3 p.m. Cleveland Botanical Garden, 11030 East Blvd., holdenfg.org. $25-30 ok to remove

6/6

Try It: Rock Climbing. Learn the basics of outdoor rock climbing. 3:30-5 p.m. Hinckley Reservation, Top O’Ledges Picnic Area, clevelandmetroparks.com. $7.50

6/8

Try It! Wheel Throwing. Get your hands dirty in the mud room & make

WHAT´S HAPPENING

a work of art from a ball of clay. 3 or 5 p.m. Busy Bees Pottery & Arts Studio, 7850 Mentor Ave., Mentor, mentor.busybeesart.com. $75

6/10

Fundamentals of Floral Design

Learn the techniques to achieve a beautiful arrangement. 7-8:30 p.m. Strongsville Branch Library, 18700 Westwood Drive, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE

6/27

The Art of Plant Pressing. Learn the tricks of the trade for mounting and preserving plant specimens. Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron, summitmetroparks.org. FREE

7/9

Beginning Zentangle. Learn this meditative method of drawing structured patterns. 6-7:30 p.m. Goodyear Branch Library, 60 Goodyear Blvd., Akron, akronlibrary.org. FREE

7/9-11

Old Time Fiddler Boot Camp. A master fiddler will teach the bowings, rhythmic patterns, and bow stroke needed to produce an authentic, Round Peak old-time fiddle sound. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Music Settlement, 2610 Detroit Ave., Ohio City, themusicsettlement.org. $180

CLUBS

MONDAYS

Delicious Discussions. Discuss new releases on the fourth Monday at downtown Willoughby establishment. 7-8 p.m. Willoughby Public Library, we247.org. FREE

TUESDAYS

Memory Cafe. Relaxing and comfortable gathering for those in the early stages of memory loss. 1-2 p.m. Various Akron Library branches, akronlibrary.org. FREE ok to remove

Tea Time Book Club. An afternoon of tea, cookies and friendly

discussion. Last Tuesday of each month. 2-3 p.m. and 3:30-4:30 p.m. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., alpl.org. FREE

Western Reserve Spinners & Weavers. Enjoy guest speakers and workshops on spinning, weaving and textile arts. 6/25 & 8/27. 6:30-9 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com. FREE

WEDNESDAYS

Adult Art Club. Share ideas and show off your work. Meets once a month. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Road, twinsburglibrary.org. FREE

Castaways. Meet with fellow fiber artists to work on projects and get ideas. Second Wednesdays. 10:30 a.m. Mentor-on-the-Lake Branch Library, 5642 Andrews Road, mentorpl.org. FREE

WHAT´S HAPPENING

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

SATURDAYS

Woodcarvers Club. Second and fourth Saturdays each month. 9:30 a.m.-noon. The Wilderness Center, 9877 Alabama Ave. SW, Wilmot, wildernesscenter.org

Chess Club. A drop-in activity for chess players of all skill levels. 6/8-9/21. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Road, twinsburglibrary.org. FREE

FITNESS & OUTDOORS

MONDAYS

Ping Pong Time. Improve your handeye coordination, have some fun and

meet new people. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Euclid Public Library, 631 E. 222nd St., euclidlibrary.org. FREE ok to remove

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

ONGOING

Murch Canopy Walk and Kalberer Emergent Tower. Enjoy a 500-footlong elevated walkway 65 feet above the forest floor and a tower 12 stories tall provide a breathtaking view. Holden Arboretum, 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, holdenarb.org. $14-20

5/29

Black River Kayak Clean Up. Help clean up the river via kayak and learn about the history of

the Black River. 5:30-7:30 p.m. French Creek Reservation, 4530 Colorado Ave., Sheffield Village, loraincountymetroparks.com. FREE

5/30

Senior Hike. Slower-paced group hike. Noon-1 p.m. Portage Hike & Bike Trail, 7173 Hudson Road and 784 Judson Road, Kent, portageparkdistrict.org. FREE

6/2

Covered Bridges Bike Ride. Explore the rural roads, scenic countryside and covered bridges in Northeast Ohio. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Western Reserve Greenway, Lampson Road Staging Area, lakemetroparks.com $10

6/8

Guided Forest Therapy Walk. Experience the calming effects of the forest. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Holden Arboretum, 9500 Sperry Road, Kirtland, holdenfg.org. $12-22

6/9

Bald Eagle & Osprey Kayak. Float down a beautiful lake in search of Osprey and Bald Eagles and learn cool facts about them. 10 a.m.-noon. Headwaters Park, Boat Launch, Claridon & Huntsburg Twps., geaugaparkdistrict.org. FREE

6/10

Sound Bath. Full body relaxation experience to help with stress, tension, sleeplessness, anxiety and more. 6:30-7:30 p.m. North Ridgeville Senior Center, 7327 Avon Belden Road, nridgeville.org. $20-30

6/13 & 6/27

Senior Cycling. Join like-minded senior Summit Metro Parks supporters as we ride and explore various trails.10 a.m.-noon. Mustill Store Trailhead, 57 W. North St., Akron, summitmetroparks.com. FREE

6/17

Introduction to Pickleball. Get an introduction to this fastgrowing sport. 6-7 p.m. Purvis Park, University Heights, 2198 Wrenford Road, heightslibrary.org. FREE

7/7

Yoga Hike. Power down and connect with nature while stopping to practice yoga postures and learning breath practices during your hike. 9-11 a.m. Horseshoe Pond, 2075 Major Road, Peninsula, convservancyforcvnp.org. $15-20

MUSIC, THEATER & ARTS

TUESDAYS

Chamber Music in the Atrium. Piano Cleveland presents performances on the third Tuesday of the month through May. Noon. The Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org. FREE

WEDNESDAYS

Lakewood Front Porch Concert Series. Free, live music in a welcoming environment. 7 p.m. Lakewood Public Library, lakewoodalive.org. FREE

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

Summer Music Nights. Funkology, Jump the Gun, Monica Robins, Backtraxx and more. 7-9 p.m. 7/58/23. First & Main Green, Hudson, firstandmainhudson.com. FREE

THROUGH 6/9

In the Heights. The story of the corner bodega where the coffee is hot, light, and sweet, the apartment windows are always open, and the cool breeze carries the percussive rhythm of the bustling city and three generations of dreams. Allen Theatre at Playhouse Square, 1407 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, playhousesquare.org. $25-95

5/26

Yacht Rock Karaoke Brunch Cruise. Grab your friends and some yacht rock-themed attire to set sail on a voyage of musical nostalgia. 1-3:30 p.m. Lady Caroline, 1153 Main Ave., Cleveland, ladycaroline.com

$64.95

6/8-9

Not A Day Over Fabulous. A musical comedy about aging. 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. Disciples Christian Church, 3663 Mayfield Road, Cleveland Hts., eventbrite.com. $20

6/13-7/7

Something Rotten. Welcome to the Renaissance and the outrageous, crowd-pleasing musical farce. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron, weathervaneplayhouse. com. $14-36

6/27

Date Night: Summer Serenades

Bring along a picnic and enjoy a relaxing night listening to live music with the Canton Symphony Orchestra from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and then enjoy a guided hike at 8 p.m. 16146 Daniel St. NE, Minera, starkparks.com. FREE

WHAT´S HAPPENING

7/12

Shakespeare & Dinner in the Garden. Enjoy dinner and some fabulous theater under the stars in the Lagoon area of the estate. 6 p.m. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, stanhywet.org. $85

SPECIAL EVENTS

5/23-26

Blossom Time Festival. Enjoy carnival games, food, rides, hot air balloon launch, live music and Memorial Day parade in Chagrin Falls. Downtown Chagrin Falls, cvjc.org FREE

5/24-26

Feast of the Flowering Moon. Native American music and dancing, crafters, exhibitors, demonstrations, entertainment and much more. Yoctangee Park, Enderlin Circle, Chillicothe, feastofthefloweringmoon. com. FREE ok to remove

5/24-27

Berea Rib Cook-Off. A family-friendly environment with a picnic-style atmosphere. Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds,164 Eastland Road, Berea, berearib.com. FREE-$10

5/25-27

Memorial Day at Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market. Visit more than 1,000 indoor and outdoor vendors. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, hartvillemarketplace.com

5/27

Memorial Day Parade, Ceremony & Car Show. Parade at 10 a.m. from Green High School. Ceremony is at 12 p.m. at Green Veterans Memorial Park. Picnic and Car Show begins at 12:30 p.m. at John Torok Community Center. cityofgreen.org. FREE

6/1-2

Railroads in the Park. Celebrate all things trainrelated featuring G-scale trains, Lionel O-gauge trains, Lego display, and much more. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Lake Metroparks Farmpark, 8800 Euclid Chardon Road, Kirtland, lakemetroparks.com. $7-9

6/6-8

Coshocton Hot Air Balloon Festival. Kiddie rides, entertainment balloon launches and more. 707 Kenilworth Ave., Coshocton, coshoctonhotairballoon festival.com

6/8 & 6/15

Strawberry Festival. U-pick strawberries, food trucks, pony rides, face painting, music and more. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Bauman Orchards, 161 Rittman Ave., Rittman, baumanorchards.com

6/9

Crocker Park Block Party. A fun day of personal safety activities, games, exhibits, demos, and more. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 189 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, crockerpark.com Free

6/27

Boomer Bash Rad ‘80s. Entertainment, raffles, music, vendor tables, and much more. 4-6 p.m. LaMalfa Party Center, 5783 Heisley Road, Mentor, northeastohioboomer. com. FREE

TALKS

TUESDAYS

Lunchtime Lecture at The Cleveland Museum of Art. First Tuesday of the month, join curators, scholars, and other museum staff for a talk on objects currently on display. Noon. 11150 East Blvd., clevelandart.org. FREE ok to remove

Adult Technology. Come every Tuesday for an array of exclusive adult-only training and technology support events. 4:305:30 p.m. Fulton Branch Library, 3545 Fulton Road, Cleveland, cpl.org. FREE

6/3

Summer Seeds. Learn how to plant a variety of seeds and baby plants. 5 p.m. Rice Branch Library, 11535 Shaker Blvd., Cleveland, cpl.org. FREE

Author Talk: Scott Guild. Hear Scott discuss his new novel, Plastic. 7-8 p.m. Parma-Powers Branch Library, 6996 Powers Blvd., Parma, cuyahogalibrary. org. FREE

6/6

Cycling Safety Talk. Learn how to navigate safely on the road as a cyclist. 7-8 p.m. Westlake Porter Public Library, 27333 Center Ridge Road, westlakelibrary.org. FREE

6/11

SW General Health Talk Learn current approaches to hip and knee arthritis, from non-surgical to surgical options. 10-11 a.m. Strongsville Branch Library, cuyahogalibrary.org. FREE

The Aging Brain and Cognitive Communication. Learn

about the normal aging process of the brain as well as potential deficits or disorders. 11 a.m.-noon. Avon Lake Public Library, 32649 Electric Blvd., alpl. org. FREE

Rain Gardens for Your Home. Discover the benefits of installing a home rain garden. 7-8 p.m. Coventry Village Branch Library, 1925 Coventry Road, Cleveland Hts., heightslibrary.org. FREE

6/20

Time Management Strategies for Completing a Novel. Learn time management, goal setting and accountability strategies that align with a writer’s lifestyle. 6-7 p.m. Medina

County District Library, 210 S. Broadway St., mcdl. info. FREE

7/12

Epic Film Discussion. Watch the 1963 film, Cleopatra, with Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, at home and then discuss it together. 3:304:30 p.m. Chardon Branch Library, 110 E. Park St., divi.geaugalibrary.net FREE

7/13

Ham Radio

Demonstration. Learn how ham radio can connect you with the world and make new friends without leaving home. 1-3 p.m. Kent Free Library, 312 W. Main St., kentfreelibrary.org. FREE

When the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame opened in 1995, the celebration and day-long concert at Municipal Stadium drew journalists from around the globe to Cleveland.

Not long after, I received a letter from England that said I was quoted in “The Times of London,” leaving me scrambling to find a copy. The letterwriter asked for information about jazz saxophonist and Cleveland native Albert Ayler, a name I had heard but didn’t know much about.

Joe Mosbrook, along with his long career as one of Cleveland TV’s most honored television reporters, is also a noted jazz historian. I had a conversation with him some time back and mentioned Ayler, whom Mosbrook said took the term avant-garde to a whole new level. He said some of his recorded work sounds like he never picked up an instrument, but when he did a second take, it started the same way. I hunted down some of those tracks and Mosbrook was right. Unless you are really into that type of jazz, it’s not likely you’ll be tapping your toes to his extensive catalog.

MUSIC MAN

Born here in 1936, Ayler took up the saxophone with the encouragement of his dad, later performing as a duo. He continued his musical education

BOOM TRIVIA

Weird, Cool & Cleveland

How Paul McCartney used a John Adams High grad to annoy his producer.

Albert and Edward Ayler

at John Adams High School, and by the time he was 15, was playing semiprofessionally with Little Walter Jacobs. He attended college briefly, but lack of money left him few options, so he joined the Army, playing in the military band at bases across Europe. Ayler developed his distinctive free jazz style while stationed in France. He briefly returned to Cleveland in 1961 after he left the service.

Ayler took his act on the road, honing a technique that was once described as a “Salvation Army Band on LSD.” At an April 1966 booking at Cleveland’s La Cave nightclub, he joined up with a violinist from the Netherlands; a recording from those sessions was

released after Ayler’s death as part of the “Holy Ghost” box set. In November 1970, at just 34 years old, Ayler’s body was found floating in New York’s East River. Authorities said no foul play was involved. But even then, conspiracy theorists spread stories that Ayler had a bullet wound to the head and was chained to a jukebox. The Army paid for his funeral, and he is buried at Cleveland’s Highland Park Cemetery. Adding to his mystery, the gravestone says Ayler died in Vietnam, which isn’t true. So how does Paul McCartney fit into this? McCartney was into experimental music and in the mid-1960s, produced a film showing a French gendarme directing traffic using Ayler’s “La Marseillaise” as the soundtrack. He had several of Ayler’s albums. When The Beatles were recording their “Revolver” album, McCartney was sometimes at odds with producer George Martin about the band’s musical innovations. To annoy Martin, McCartney would play Ayler’s album “Spiritual Unity” while they were dining.

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

Last issue, I mentioned that one of the most feared movie villains was a Northeast Ohio native who starred in a banned episode of “Sesame Street.” In this episode, Margaret Hamilton reprised her role as the Wicked Witch of the West on the program. The episode ran once and, after a wave of parent complaints saying it frightened their kids, was never shown again. A copy turned up when the “Sesame Street” archives were given to the Library of Congress but was only available to researchers. It has since shown up on YouTube.

For next time, a Cleveland band left audio instructions on their debut album for the best way to enjoy the LP. Which band was it?

Thrive After 55

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