Things to do

If you’re 60 or better, you can build skills, explore new ideas, enhance understanding and enrich life by attending any state college or university, thanks to the Ohio Department of Higher Education’s Lifelong Learning program. (At some locations, students as young as 50 can enroll for free). Satisfy your thirst for learning at one of these colleges or universities nearby. ...

Do you need more polished casual pieces for activities with the grandkids? Did you buy an RV and find you need clothing for camping? Perhaps you feel as though you are too casual when attending luncheons or game night with friends. It's easier to focus on one or two areas of your wardrobe that are lacking alignment with your current lifestyle. ...

Fireflies or lightning bugs? Whatever you call them, they create magic in the summer night's sky. Blogger Donna Hessel tells us more about the different species that light up our nights in Northeast Ohio. Along the way, you'll learn how fireflies are great for your garden, too! ...

A sprinkling of festivals is scheduled throughout July in the greater Cleveland area and there’s one in the Akron/Canton area, as well. Some are virtual, others are drive-throughs; all have had to adapt to the constraints of the day. Even so, as this festival schedule reminds us, we don’t have to leave fun behind this summer. ...

It never occurred to me to deliberately grow or search out flowers specifically to use in a recipe. But that’s exactly what is trending! So here’s a brief guide to some flowers that are edible and how to use them; and a few caveats to keep in mind before you make a selection. ...

Growing sunflowers with your grandchildren is a rewarding summertime experience. The weekly growth of sunflowers is staggering and the kids can measure and record each sunflower’s progress. Soon, the plants surpass the child’s height before blooming in late summer or early fall into their magnificent yellow and orange heads. And, of course, it is important to save some seeds for next year, dry them and wait until another spring to continue the sunflower tradition! ...

Playing games on smartphones and tablets has been around for more than a decade. Accessibility and the ease at which games can be played quickly probably surpass other forms of gaming and provide a common thread linking generations of game lovers. ...

Pretending you're a tourist on your own stomping grounds is a fun way to see Northeast Ohio in a new light while also giving your wallet a breather. Check out these gorgeous beaches, ledges and islands that make it feel like you and Toto are not in Ohio anymore. Stay near, get lost but remember to check destination websites for special hours, facility availability and other restrictions resulting from COVID-19 precautions. Many places have special hours for older visitors and for those especially vulnerable to the coronavirus. Up early? Morning hours are usually less popular with visitors, making it easy to have social distance-appropriate outings. ...