A spooky story for Halloween - The Island of Dolls in Mexico City
In this special episode of Fun with Maps, host Dan Hanson warns you not to be afraid as he looks at a scary topic just before Halloween and the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos). The Island of Dolls (La Isla de las Muñecas) is an eerie, creepy destination in a borough of Mexico City south of the city center. The legend tells of a man who found a drown girl in the canal by his home. He also found her doll and hung it from a tree as a sign of respect. But he started hearing whispers, footsteps, and anguished wails in the darkness even though his hut-hidden deep inside the woods of the borough of Xochimilco-was miles away from civilization. Driven by fear, he spent the next fifty years hanging more and more dolls, some missing body parts, all over the island in an attempt to appease what he believed to be the drowned girl's spirit. Watch the video to see what happens.
This episode starts with an overview of the map of Mexico and then drills down to Mexico City and its 16 boroughs including Xochimilco. This borough has canals (like Venice) for transportation and tourism and chinampas for agriculture. Dan takes a look at the Day of the Dead and then finally to the scary Island of Dolls. See pictures and videos of the Day of the Dead Parade in Cleveland Ohio USA.
Dan Coughlin - Rest in Peace
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Dan Coughlin. He was a great sportswriter/announcer/author and an even better guy/friend.
The 635' Sam Laud Ship at The Foundry on the Cuyahoga River
The Foundry is a local non-profit organization whose mission is to transform the lives of Cleveland’s youth through access to the sports of rowing and sailing. Through the Row. Sail. Dream. program, the Foundry provides introductory rowing and sailing programming to all 6th-12th grade students from public school districts across the County, at no cost to financially qualifying households.
The Foundry is located right on the banks of the Cuyahoga River. Cuyahoga means crooked and maneuvering the twists and turns takes skill but especially for a ship this size. This is the M/V Sam Laud, a diesel-powered Lake freighter owned and operated by the American Steamship Company.
Sam Laud ship on the Cuyahoga River
This vessel was built in 1975 at Bay Shipbuilding Company, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin and included self-unloading technology. The ship is 634 feet 10 inches (193.50 m) long and 68.1 feet (20.8 m) wide, with a carrying capacity of 24,300 tons (at midsummer draft), limestone, gypsum, coal or iron ore. The ship was built for American Steamship in 1975 and named for a former company chairman, Sam Laud. The ship can be briefly seen during the opening credits for the 1989 film Major League.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is a government agency that protects people from frauds and scams. Unfortunately, scammer often target communities that they feel are vulnerable. That may be senior citizens, immigrants or members of ethnic communities. The FTC partnered with Ethnic Media Services (EMS) and hosted an event in Cleveland Ohio on September 24, 2024 dealing with Spotting and Avoiding Scams - especially for vulnerable communities.
Experts from several agencies were joined by ethnic community leaders and members of ethnic media outlets for a robust and informative session.
There are numerous federal and local resources for people to prevent and protect from scams and also to report a scam if it occurs. The resources are available in multiple languages and should be shared with others in your community.
There are three prongs to preventing a scammer from harming you and your community: Protecting Yourself, Identifying a Scam and What to do if you were scammed. Here are some resources:
How to Protect Yourself
A great resource to learn about avoiding scams is Consumer.gov. This website includes information on scams that target immigrants, warnings about notarios and how to get legitimate help with immigration. For example:
Get advice from U.S. government websites. A website might look like it comes from the government. Make sure the website address ends with .gov. That means it is a government website.
Do not pay a notario for legal advice. Notarios will not help you, even when you pay them.
Don't carry all your important papers or ID cards with you.
Don't click on unknown links in email messages.
Make sure websites start with https. The "s" at the end means the site is secure.
Many more useful and important tips at Consumer.gov. Identifying and Preventing a Scam
Experts say that Imposter Scams are the most common currently. In Imposter Scams someone pretends to be someone they are not, maybe even a friend, relative or co-worker, and contacts you out of the blue and tries to distract you and convince you to act urgently. They want you to pay in cash or gift cards or wire transfer or similar non-standard methods.
The government and legitimate companies will never do this! In addition do NOT give out personal information in response to an unexpected request whether it comes as a text, phone call or e-mail.
You can sign up for free Consumer Alerts at ftc.gov/consumeralerts to be kept informed about the latest scams.
Don't believe your Caller ID. Technology allows for scamming here. If someone asks for money or personal information, just hang up. You can always call the legitimate number of the business to confirm.
Don't pay upfront for a promise such as job assistance, mortgage assistance or the like.
Take your time. Con artists want you to act in a hurry. If in doubt, slow down and check with trusted sources, search online and so on.
Hang up on Robocalls. Don't press a button to be taken off the list. That could lead to more calls.
Be skeptical about free trial offers. These can lead to unwanted billings and difficult cancellations.
Don't deposit a check and wire money back. This is a common scam where you will end up being responsible for paying back the bank.
Don't click on unknown links in e-mails. They can look legitimate so be very wary. Also, don't grant remote access to your computer even in messages pop up warning you.
It is very important to report if you were scammed. Go to https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ and choose your language. You can also call the FTC at 1-877-382-4357 (1-877-FTC-HELP)
You can remain anonymous, speak in your own language and give as much or as little information as you want.
Note: Scammers are impersonating the FTC. Know that the FTC will never threaten you, say you must transfer your money to "protect it," or tell you to withdraw cash or buy gold and give it to someone. Learn more at ftc.gov/impersonators
Do not be ashamed or embarrassed. The scammers are often professionals who spend a lot of money and time trying to fool you. Everybody gets targeted and people from every age group and demographic have been scammed.
Take the Pledge - Do Your Part to bring this to Cleveland
The Greater Cleveland Sports Commission just doesn't stop. After the successful Pan Am Masters Games they went right onto the next event for the City. There's now an opportunity to attract an event that will bring over 125,000 people to the city. And you can help out. Here are some details:
"Cleveland is The Land, Ohio is The Heart of it All and the Special Olympics is fueled by the Flame of Hope burning in the heart of its inspiring athletes. The Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, Special Olympics Ohio and Destination Cleveland are teaming up to bring the 2030 Special Olympics USA Games to our city. We're talking over 5,500 athletes and coaches, plus 125,000 family members and fans. They'll all be here to witness the largest inclusive sporting event in our city's history. But we can't do it alone. Sign our pledge to help bring the Special Olympics to The Land today, rally your friends and family to sign, and join us in bringing this historic event to Cleveland."
Don't worry. The Pledge is asking for money or locking in commitments.
It asks if you want the event to come to Cleveland in 2030 and if you are willing to attend events, cheer on athletes and maybe volunteer. They reported that in just the first a week they received over 5,000 pledges but we need more to show what Cleveland can do!
The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) will soon launch an eight-week support series and introduction to Parkinson's disease (PD) for Cleveland area residents diagnosed in the last five years and their care partners. The PRESST (Parkinson's Roadmap for Education and Support ServicesT) program will meet from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM on Tuesdays from August 27 to October 15 at the Avon Branch of the Lorain Public Library (37485 Harvest Dr, Avon, OH). There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. APDA's PRESS program is specially designed for people within five years of a PD diagnosis and their care partners. The eight-week program will be conducted in a support group format and aims to help attendees feel empowered and optimistic by providing emotional support, education, and a comfortable space to share coping strategies. The program will be facilitated by Lee Strouse, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Registered Nurse.
76 year old blind Cleveland Woman runs the 10K at Pan Am Masters Games
The Pan-American Masters Games are a multisport event for Masters Athletes over the age of 35. The 2024 Pan-American Masters Games were held in Cleveland Ohio USA and featured athletes from 6 continents, 48 states and more than 70 countries. Participants competed in 24 medal-contending sports.
At the Closing Celebration on Sunday July 21, 2024 we caught up with 76 year old athlete Keryl. Keryl just completed the 10K race and what makes it more impressive is that she is legally blind and ran with a guide. Wow.
Cleveland was the proud host of the 2024 Pan-American Masters Games from July 12-21, 2024. A major event of the International Masters Games Association, the Games offer an opportunity to showcase competitive spirit and athletic ability of masters athletes on a global stage. Thousands of athletes from 6 continents (sorry Antarctica), 48 states and more than 70 countries came to Cleveland in a celebration of health, vitality, friendship and an active lifestyle at any age.
It was the largest international event in Cleveland's history. The Games had only been in the Western hemisphere twice before - in Rio de Janeiro and Vancouver.
The Greek Garden Association of Cleveland (GGAC) hosted one of their educational series events in the Greek Cultural Garden on Sunday August 4, 2004. GGAC President Lou Frangos told of a special honor to be given to Ted Theodore as the first Greek Garden Board Member Emeritus. Ted Theodore was a ten year old kid in 1939 and attended the original dedication of the Greek Garden with is mother. 2,000 people attended the event.
"We're what you call role models." Running track in their 80s
The Pan-American Masters Games are a multisport event for Masters Athletes over the age of 35. The 2024 Pan-American Masters Games were held in Cleveland Ohio USA and featured athletes from 6 continents, 48 states and more than 70 countries. Participants competed in 24 medal-contending sports.
We caught up with two octogenarians who had just competed, and won medals, in the 400m dash. William Bohle is 8o years old and Johnny Lucassen is 85. It turns out they live only about 6 miles part in small towns in Alabama. They raced at Baldwin-Wallace Finnie Stadium on July 14, 2024 and placed 1st and 2nd. Here they share their experience and give some advice to others in their age group and younger. Johnny told us, "We're what you call role models." Watch the short video interview.
RIP Great Lakes Troubador Pat Dailey
Pat Dailey passed away at home on July 3, 2024. He was 83. Pat was called the Jimmy Buffet of the North and played for decades in Put-in-Bay and other northern Ohio venues in the summer and in Key West Florida in thwe winters.
If you've ever heard a Pat Dailey song, you have had a taste of the very heart of summer in northeast Ohio. What Clevelander can't relate to Pat's lament "Winter was a bummer"? Once you've seen him perform, you are a fan for life eagerly awaiting his next appearance. Maybe you like to sing along to classics: "Put-in-Bay, we're going to have a GOOD TIME" or "You better get your ass to Cleveland, cause the best things in life are here." (Who doesn't love a song that mentions Dorothy Fuldheim, Ralph Perk and others?)
Maybe you prefer to kick back and listen to his hauntingly beautiful tales of the Great Lakes. Either way, you will never forget a Pat Dailey concert. You can't say that about too many performers and we were fortunate to have Pat Dailey - singer, songwriter and traveling musician - as a part of our summers in Cleveland. RIP Pat.
Pat Dailey relaxing in a Cleveland bar photo by Debbie Hanson
Steve Zilber, president of the Cleveland Go Club told us about the game of Go which dates back 3-4000 years. Originating in China, the game of Go moved to Japan and other countries.
There are white or black stones - all have the same "powers". Steve said the game scales well so they have a 9x9 board, 13x13 and 19x19 which experts like him play on.
Steve and the Cleveland Go Club were at the 2024 Cleveland Asian Festival inside Asia Plaza and playing and teaching the game of Go. Watch the short video.
Beware of Scams
Fraudsters use regular mail, telephone and email to scam individuals, businesses, payroll and tax professionals. Businesses should watch out for tax-related scams and implement safeguards. Know your risks and the warning signs to better protect your businesses and employees. Remain vigilant against common scams targeting you as a business owner, ensuring protection against fraudulent activities.
Remember, the IRS doesn't initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information.
Take proactive steps today to safeguard your business and employees, by implementing robust security measures such as using anti-malware/anti-virus software with automatic updates and enforcing strong passwords with multi-factor authentication. Ensure that you only enter personal data on secure websites (https) to prevent unauthorized access.
Social media: Fraudulent form filing and bad advice
Social media can circulate inaccurate or misleading tax information that encourages people to submit false, inaccurate information in hopes of getting a refund or taking advantage of a credit. Taxpayers should always remember that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Online Account help from third-party scammers
The scammers making these offers are trying to steal a taxpayer's personal information. Taxpayers should be alert to fake communications posing as legitimate organizations in the tax and financial community. These messages arrive in the form of an unsolicited text or email to lure victims into providing valuable personal and financial information that can lead to identity theft.
Unscrupulous tax preparers
Most CPAs provide outstanding and professional service. However, people should be careful of shady tax preparers. Avoid these "ghost" preparers, who will prepare a tax return but refuse to sign or include their IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number as required by law. Avoid “Tax preparer” who is not a CPA, or tax attorney or enrolled agent!!!
Offer in compromise
Offers in Compromise is an important IRS program to help people who can't pay to settle their federal tax debts for less than the full amount owed. But "Offer in Compromise - mills" make exaggerated claims with ads about settling tax debts inexpensively. They can aggressively promote Offers in Compromise in misleading ways to people who clearly don't meet the qualifications.
Employee Retention Credit
Some unscrupulous promoters have misrepresented eligibility rules for the Employee Retention Credit, luring well-intentioned businesses to claim the credit when they don’t qualify.
Have questions? Contact CPA Sam Tanious at 440-991-6864 or e-mail samytaxservices@gmail.com
The Sixties
Alzheimer’s Association Urges Americans to Focus on Brain Health
Currently, two-thirds of Americans have at least one major risk factor for dementia. Science shows that modifying risk factors and promoting healthy behaviors can reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia – in fact, scientists estimate that up to 40% of dementia cases worldwide could be prevented by a change in habits. The Alzheimer’s Association is offering “10 Healthy Habits for Your Brain,” simple everyday actions people can take to reduce their dementia risk.
Challenge your mind. In the words of Ted Lasso, be curious! Put the brain to work and do something new. Challenging the mind may have short- and long-term brain benefits.
Stay in school. Education reduces the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Encourage youth to stay in school and pursue the highest level of training possible. Continue your own education by taking a class at a library, school or online.
Get moving. Engage in regular exercise and activities that raise your heart rate and increase blood flow to the brain and body.
Protect your head. Help prevent a head injury. Wear a helmet, a seatbelt and be careful of falls.
Be smoke-free. Quitting smoking can lower the risk of cognitive decline back to levels similar to those who have not smoked. It’s never too late to stop.
Control your blood pressure. Medication, eating right and engaging in physical activity can lower blood pressure.
Manage Diabetes. Type 2 Diabetes can be prevented or controlled by healthy eating, increased physical activity and medication.
Eat right. Healthy eating can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Focus on vegetables and lean proteins, avoiding processed and high-fat foods.
Maintain a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor about your ideal body weight. Following these healthy habits and getting adequate sleep can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Sleep well. Good quality sleep is important for brain health. Turn off all screens before bed to minimize disruptions. Address any sleep-related problems like sleep apnea.
“Research confirms what we have suspected for some time – people can lower their chances of cognitive decline with healthy habits,” said Mary Ertle, program director for the Alzheimer’s Association Cleveland Area and Greater East Ohio Area chapters. “Adopting these simple actions can decrease dementia risk, even for people with a family history. It’s never too late or too early to take charge of your brain health.”
Six million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, including 220,000 Ohioans. The number of Ohioans living with Alzheimer's is expected to increase to 250,000 by 2025. One in three seniors dies with dementia - more than breast and prostate cancer combined. Those concerned about themselves or a loved one can contact the Alzheimer's Association Cleveland Area Chapter at 216.342.5556 to schedule a care consultation and be connected to local resources.
Watch out for Utility Scammers
Be aware of scammers who call and claim to be collecting on your bill and ask for an online or over-the-phone payment. Some of these requests can sound and look real. In some cases, scammers are able to make it appear they are calling from a Dominion Energy phone number. How to avoid these scams:
Remember, Dominion Energy will never call you to demand a payment.
If you pay your bills on time, be suspicious of any call or email regarding your account.
Be careful using search engines. Instead go directly to dominionenergy.com. Scammers use fake ads to trick you into clicking.
Never provide personal or financial information to someone who calls and asks for it.
Verify the status of your account by logging in to your online account or the Dominion Energy app.
If you’re still in doubt as to the status of your account, or if you were speaking with an employee, please call Dominion Energy. There is no need to hold for an agent to check your account balance.
Dominion Energy employees will never request to enter a customer’s home without proper identification, an appointment or a reported emergency. Additionally, employees do not ask for payment in person.
Alzheimer's Association Releases 2024 Facts and Figures Report
10 sources of Tax-Free Income (not taxable)
Workers Comp & Disability Insurance.
Scholarships and Employer Education Assistance.
Health Savings Account.
Child Support & Alimony.
Federal Disaster Relief.
Inheritance and Gifts.
Life Insurance Payouts.
Capital Gain on your Home.
Municipal Bond Interest.
Roth IRA.
Some limitations and exceptions apply.
Have questions? Contact CPA Sam Tanious at 440-991-6864 or e-mail samytaxservices@gmail.com
Just Thinking
Today I was in a shoe store that sells only shoes, nothing else. A young girl with a tattoo and green hair walked over to me and asked, "What brings you in today? I looked at her and said, "I'm interested in buying a refrigerator." She didn't quite know how to respond, had that deer in the headlights look.
I was thinking about old age and decided that old age is when you still have something on the ball, but you are just too tired to bounce it.
When people see a cat's litter box they always say, "Oh, have you got a cat?" I just say, "No, it's for company!"
Employment application blanks always ask who is to be called in case of an emergency. I think you should write, "An ambulance."
The older you get the tougher it is to lose weight because by then your body and your fat have gotten to be really good friends.
The easiest way to find something lost around the house is to buy a replacement.
Have you ever noticed: The Roman Numerals for forty (40) are XL.
The sole purpose of a child's middle name is so he knows when he's really in trouble.
Did you ever notice that when you put the 2 words "The" and "IRS" together it spells "Theirs?"
Aging: Eventually you will reach a point when you stop lying about your age and start bragging about it.
Some people try to turn back their "odometers." Not me. I want people to know why I look this way. I've traveled a long way and a lot of the roads were not paved.
Ah! Being young is beautiful but being old is comfortable.
Lord, keep your arm around my shoulder and your hand over my mouth.
May you always have:
Love to share, Cash to spare, Tires with air,
And friends who care.
A Different Perspective
We are a Unique Generation
We grew up in the 40s-50s-60.
We studied in the 50s-60s-70s.
We dated in the 50s-60s-70s.
We got married and discovered the world in the 60s-70s-80s.
We ventured into the 70s-80s.
We stabilized in the 90s.
We got wiser in the 2000s.
And went firmly through the 2010s.
Turns out we've lived through NINE different decades, TWO different centuries, & TWO different millennia.
We have gone from the telephone with an operator for long-distance calls to video calls to anywhere in the world.
We have gone from slides to YouTube, from vinyl records to online music, from handwritten letters to email and WhatsApp.
We have gone from live matches on the radio, to black and white TV, and then to HDTV.
We went to Blockbuster and now we watch Netflix.
We got to know the first computers, punch cards, diskettes and now we have gigabytes and megabytes in hand on our cell phones or iPads.
We wore shorts throughout our childhood and then long pants, oxfords, Bermuda shorts, etc.
We dodged infantile paralysis, meningitis, H1N1 flu and now COVID-19.
We rode skates, tricycles, invented cars, bicycles, mopeds, gasoline or diesel cars and now we ride hybrids or 100% electric.
Yes, we've been through a lot but what a great life we've had! They could describe us as "exennials" people who were born in that world of the fifties, who had an analog childhood and a digital adulthood.
We're kind of Ya-seen-it-all. Our generation has literally lived through and witnessed more than any other in every dimension of life. It is our generation that has literally adapted to "CHANGE".
A big round of applause to all the members of a very special generation, which are UNIQUE.
Remember our car radios?
Funny Retiree Mental Fitness Evaluation
This test is to ascertain your mental state now. If you get one right you are doing OK, if you get none right you better go for counseling. (I'll meet you there.)
There are 4 test questions. Don't miss one.
Giraffe Test
1. How do you put a giraffe into a refrigerator?
Stop and think about it and decide on your answer
before you scroll down.
The Correct Answer:
Open the refrigerator, put in the giraffe, and close the door. This question tests whether you tend to do simple things in an overly complicated way.
Elephant Test
2. How do you put an elephant into a refrigerator?
Did you say, Open the refrigerator, put in the elephant, and close the refrigerator?
Wrong Answer.
Correct Answer:
Open the refrigerator, take out the giraffe, put in the elephant and close the door. This tests your ability to think through
the repercussions of your previous actions.
Lion King Test
3. The Lion King is hosting an Animal Conference. All the animals attend... except one. Which animal does not attend?
Correct Answer:
The Elephant. The elephant is in the refrigerator. You just put him in there. This tests your memory.
Okay, even if you did not answer the first three questions correctly, you still have one more chance to show your true abilities.
Crocodile Test
4. There is a river you must cross but it is used by crocodiles, and you do not have a boat. How do you manage it?
Correct Answer:
You jump into the river and swim across. Haven't you been listening? All the crocodiles are attending the Animal Conference. This tests whether you learn quickly from your mistakes. Ha Ha!
Clevelander Sara Lucy Bagby The last person returned to slavery in the US
The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses established in the US during the early 1800s to help slaves escape into free states and Canada. It was run by abolitionists and others sympathetic to the cause of the escapees. Ohio had many stops on the Underground Railroad and since Canada was an ultimate destination, the short distance across Lake Erie from Cleveland to Canada made the city a popular destination. Cleveland was codenamed Hope on the Underground Railroad.
Restore Cleveland Hope operates the Underground Railroad Interpretive Center in the Cozad-Bates House, the only surviving pre-Civil War building in University Circle. They offer tours and events and it was here that we learned of the story of Sara Lucy Bagby.
Sara Lucy Bagby display at Cozad-Bates House
Sara Lucy Bagby was born in the early 1840s in Virginia. On October 3, 1860 Bagby fled from slavery in Wheeling. She eventually escaped slavery via the Underground Railroad and made her way to Cleveland, Ohio.
Her arrest in Cleveland on January 19, 1861 became a test case of the Fugitive Slave Act.
Wheeling resident John Goshorn and his son showed proof of ownership, and the federal court ordered her return to Virginia. Sara Lucy Bagby was the last person in the United States forced to return to slavery in the South under the Fugitive Slave Act.
The Cleveland Plain Dealer and Democrat Party of the US were both pro-slavery so despite the state government's and citizens of Cleveland's attempts to intervene, Lucy was transported back to Goshorn's property in Wheeling, then still part of Virginia.
After the Emancipation Proclamation, Bagby eventually resettled in Cleveland, where she died in 1906 and was buried.
In this video, Kathryn Puckett, Restore Cleveland Hope Board Chair, tells the story of Sara Lucy Bagby.
Recently I overheard a father and daughter in their last moments together at the airport. They had announced the departure. Standing near the security gate, they hugged and the Father said, "I love you, and I wish you enough."
The daughter replied, "Dad, our life together has been more than enough. Your love is all I ever needed. I wish you enough, too, Dad."
They kissed and the daughter left. The Father walked over to the window where I was seated. Standing there I could see he wanted and needed to cry. I tried not to intrude on his privacy, but he welcomed me in by asking, "Did you ever say good-bye to someone knowing it would be forever?"
"Yes, I have," I replied. "Forgive me for asking, but why is this a forever-good-bye?"
"I am old, and she lives so far away. I have challenges ahead and the reality is, the next trip back will be for my funeral," he said.
"When you were saying good-bye, I heard you say, 'I wish you enough,' may I ask what that means?"
He began to smile, "That's a wish that has been handed down from other generations. My parents used to say it to everyone..." He paused a moment and looked up as if trying to remember it in detail, and he smiled even more. "When we said, 'I wish you enough,' we were wanting the other person to have a life filled with just enough good things to sustain them.'' Then turning toward me, he shared the following as if he were reciting it from memory.
I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright no matter how gray the day may appear.
I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun even more.
I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive and everlasting.
I wish you enough pain so that even the smallest of joys in life may appear bigger.
I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.
I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.
I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye.
He then began to cry and walked away.
They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them; but then an entire life to forget them.
Don't hang out with Negative People
A man was getting a haircut prior to a trip to Rome. He mentioned the trip to the barber, who responded, “Why would anyone want to go there.
It’s crowded and dirty and full of Italians. You’re crazy to go to Rome. So, how are you getting there?”
“We’re taking United,” was the reply. “We got a great rate!” “United!”
exclaimed the barber. “That’s a terrible airline. Their planes are
old, their flight attendants are ugly and they’re always late. So,
where are you staying in Rome?”
“We’ll be at the downtown International Marriott.” “That dump! That’s
the worst hotel in Rome. The rooms are small, the service is surly and
they’re overpriced. So, whatcha doing when you get there?”
We’re going to go to see the Vatican and we hope to see the Pope.
“That’s rich,” laughed the barber. “You and a million other people
trying to see him. He’ll look the size of an ant. Boy, good luck on
this lousy trip of yours. You’re going to need it!”
A month later, the man again came in for his regular haircut. The
barber asked him about his trip to Rome. “It was wonderful,” explained
the man. “Not only were we on time in one of United’s brand new
planes, but it was overbooked and they bumped us up to first class.
The food and wine were wonderful, and I had a beautiful young
stewardess who waited on me hand and foot.
And the hotel! Well, it was
great! They’d just finished a $25 million remodeling job and now it’s
the finest hotel in the city. They were overbooked too, so they
apologized and gave us the presidential suite at no extra charge!”
“Well,”muttered the barber. “I know you didn’t get to see the Pope”
“Actually, we were quite lucky, for as we toured the Vatican, a Swiss
Guard tapped me on the shoulder and explained that the Pope likes to
meet some of the visitors, and if I’d be so kind as to step into his
private room and wait, the Pope would personally greet me. Sure
enough, five minutes later, the Pope walked in. As I knelt down he
spoke to me.”
“What did he say?”
“He said, ‘Where’d you get the crappy haircut?
You didn't know I was a chef, did you?
Can you still feel the burn from this?
Battlefield Crosses
If they only knew
Signs of a Stroke - Remember STR
Remember the '3' steps, STR. Sometimes symptoms of a stroke are difficult to identify. Unfortunately, the lack of awareness spells disaster. The stroke victim may suffer severe brain damage when people nearby fail to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. Now doctors say a bystander can recognize a stroke by asking three simple questions:
S Ask the individual to SMILE.
T Ask the person to TALK and SPEAK A SIMPLE SENTENCE (Coherently) (i.e. It is sunny out today.)
R Ask him or her to RAISE BOTH ARMS.
If he or she has trouble with ANY ONE of these tasks, call emergency number immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher.
New Sign of a Stroke - Stick out Your Tongue. Another 'sign' of a stroke is this: Ask the person to 'stick' out his tongue... If the tongue is 'crooked', if it goes to one side or the other,that is also an indication of a stroke.
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) supports the state highway system and promotes transportation initiatives statewide. ODOT's mission is to provide safe and easy movement of people and goods from place to place.
As we age we have all experienced slowing down and/or weakening of some of our abilities. Maybe it's our vision or hearing not being what it used to be. Or a physical or mental challenge. Or even our medications! Maybe we didn't drive much during the Covid pandemic and are a little rusty or fearful now.
The good news is that we older adults are among the safest drivers on Ohio roads. We are more likely to wear our seatbelts and less likely to speed or drink and drive as some of the younger people. The bad news is that the risk of being injured or killed in a crash increases with age.
The best news is that ODOT is sharing information about resources and services available to older Ohioans, families and friends, caregivers and others who interact with older drivers through its Stay Fit to Drive program.
Or just Browse around using the topics to the left
Better than many weather forecasters
ClevelandSeniors.Com Joke of the Week
After seeing a documentary about ice fishing, Zeke decided to give it a try. He gathered some gear and headed out to the ice. As he set up and was about to drill his first hole he heard a booming voice from above saying "There are no fish under the ice."
Zeke was starled but started to drill. He again heard the powerful voice stating "There are no fish under the ice."
Zeke got scared. But decided he must be imagining it and began to drill again.
The voice boomed out again, "There are no fish under the ice."
Zeke looked up to the havnes and asked, "Is that you Lord?"
The voice boomed, "No, this is the manager of the skating rink"
McDonalds menu in 1972
Advice from someone heading toward his 80th birthday
After loving my parents, my siblings, my spouse, my children and my friends, I have now started loving myself.
I have realized that I am not "Atlas". The world does not rest on my shoulders.
I have stopped bargaining with vegetable & fruit vendors. A few pennies more is not going to break me, but it might help the poor fellow save for his daughter's school fees.
I leave my waitress a big tip. The extra money might bring a smile to her face. She is toiling much harder for a living than I am.
I stopped telling the elderly that they've already told that story many times. The story makes them walk down memory lane & relive their past.
I have learned not to correct people even when I know they are wrong. The onus of making everyone perfect is not on me. Peace is more precious than perfection.
I give compliments freely & generously. Compliments are a mood enhancer not only for the recipient, but also for me. And a small tip for the recipient of a compliment, never, NEVER turn it down, just say "Thank You."
I have learned not to bother about a crease or a spot on my shirt. Personality speaks louder than appearances.
I walk away from people who don't value me. They might not know my worth, but I do.
I remain cool when someone plays dirty to outrun me in the rat race. I am not a rat & neither am I in any race.
I am learning not to be embarrassed by my emotions. It's my emotions that make me human.
I have learned that it's better to drop the ego than to break a relationship. My ego will keep me aloof, whereas with relationships, I will never be alone.
I have learned to live each day as if it's the last. After all, it might be the last.
I am doing what makes me happy. I am responsible for my happiness, and I owe it to myself. Happiness is a choice. You can be happy at any time, just choose to be!
Beatitudes for Friends of the Aged
Blessed are they who understand My faltering step and palsied hand.
Blessed are they who know that my ears today Must strain to catch the things they say.
Blessed are they who seem to know That my eyes are dim and my wits are slow.
Blessed are they who looked away When coffee spilled at the table today.
Blessed are they with a cheery smile Who stop to chat for a little while.
Blessed are they who never say, "You've told that story twice today."
Blessed are they who know the ways To bring back memories of yesterdays.
Blessed are they who make it known That I'm loved, respected and not alone.
Blessed are they who know I'm at a loss To find the strength to carry the Cross.
Blessed are they who ease the days On my journey Home in loving ways.
An Answered Prayer
Smith climbed to the top of Mt. Sinai to get close enough to talk to God. Looking up, he asked the Lord.. "God, what does a million years mean to you?"
The Lord replied, "A minute."
Smith asked, "And what does a million dollars mean to you?"
The Lord replied, "A penny."
Smith asked, "Can I have a penny?"
The Lord replied, "In a minute."
The 7 Dwarves of Old Age
Murder in the Cultural Gardens
"It just didn’t seem right to DJ. A body found bludgeoned in a place known for “Peace through Mutual Understanding.” But there she was, crumpled behind a bust of composer Franz Liszt in the Hungarian Cultural Garden. He pulled out his cell phone and dialed 911. “What is the nature of your emergency?” the dispatcher queried. With a suddenly very dry mouth DJ managed to get out, “There’s been a murder in the Cultural Gardens.”
That's the beginning of the recently published first novel by Dan Hanson.
The whodunit, titled Murder in the Cultural Gardens, takes place in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens and all 30+ gardens are featured during the mystery. You may even recognize some of the characters.
Click the link above to learn more or to purchase in paperback or Kindle version from Amazon. Or contact Dan via the Murder in the Cultural Gardens webpage to have a signed book delivered.
A Senior Prayer
God, grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked anyway, The good fortune to run into the ones that I do, and the eyesight to tell the difference.
Who Needs Advance Directives about Medical Care?
Advance directives help ensure that you receive the medical care you would want even when doctors and family members are making decisions on your behalf. There are two different types of advance directives: Health Care Power of Attorney and Living Will.
It is difficult for people to accept the notion that adult abuse occurs in the elderly, but the sad fact is that it occurs everyday. Last year in Ohio over 16,000 incidents of elder abuse were reported to Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. In Cuyahoga County alone, over 3,000 incidences of elder abuse were reported to Cuyahoga County Department and Senior Adult Services, Adult Protective Services.
Many people do not like to think about death or funeral arrangements, but some people do make plans for when they pass. For example, some people choose to purchase “pre-paid funeral contracts.” These contacts allow you to make decisions about your own funeral, and pay for it ahead of time. These pre-paid contracts give some people peace of mind. But before purchasing such a contract, keep the following issues in mind.
How can seniors learn more about benefits available to them?
BenefitsCheckUp is a web-based service that helps seniors. It is especially helpful for those with limited income and resources, their family members and, social service organizations. It connects people to over 2,000 public and private programs. Many adults over 55 need help paying for basic needs. Some of the benefits screened for are health care services, prescription drugs, rent assistance, in-home services, meals, heat, and energy assistance, and transportation.
Grandparents sometimes find themselves caring for a grandchild unexpectedly. This often happens without any formal court order giving the grandparent custody or guardianship. Without custody or guardianship, the grandparent will face problems getting medical care for the child or dealing with the child’s school.
A durable power of attorney can be one of the most helpful estate planning tools a person uses, but it can also be very risky. A durable POA gives a person (who is called an “attorney in fact”) legal authority to act for another person in a variety of matters, including banking, benefits, housing, taxes, real estate, litigation, and more. (The durable POA is different from a Health Care Power of Attorney, which is the form used to appoint a person to make decisions about health care.)
:When my mother died in 2012, we discovered that her will was from 1959 and had not been updated to reflect the many changes in her life since then: she had four more children, she bought a house, furniture, an automobile, jewelry, and a dog. As a result, my mother died without a valid will. Following her death, bills had to be paid, property sold, her furniture, jewelry, the car divided, and someone had to take in the dog."
Recommended For You (popular with other Cleveland Seniors)
ClevelandSeniors.Com Book of the Week
Before You Leap
Before You Leap starts on screeching tires, literally—an interstate bridge, a police chase, three men trapped in a car, driving at full speed. The two in the front are arguing, one is brandishing a gun, and the third is bleeding profusely in the backseat. You can’t help but be immediately hooked and wonder, Who are they? And how on earth did they get here?
The novel then takes you back a few days. Greg Cole’s quiet and secluded life is about to be thrown into chaos when he learns that his dead sister’s convicted murderer has been released early.
Before You Leap is absorbing, thought-provoking, and psychologically riveting. I was struck by how the author is able to delve into Greg’s psyche and express his grief over the loss of his sister—and the inner turmoil that overtakes him—with such clarity. What you’re left with is a poignant, complex, nail-biting novel where you watch in a stupor as someone’s life and sanity shatter. And as it crescendos, the story pulls the rug from under your feet and delivers the most unexpected twist—one that took my breath away and left me reeling.
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Cleveland Cooks Vol 3
