Serving Our Seniors Magazine: July - September 2026

10 N. Edison Dr. Milan, OH 44846 419.499.2968 milanhistory.org We look forward to welcoming you! Did you know, we have six exhibit buildings where you can rediscover the past in our history galleries and reconnect with your creative side in our glass and art galleries? Did you know, we proudly offer many discounts, and host engaging monthly programs and events? Did you know, our museum store offers exclusive gifts made by local artisans for every history and art lover! The positive impact has been physical as well as emotional. Debbie Zielinski, 59, joined Just A Numb3r after suffering an injury that limited her mobility. At the time, she weighed 200 pounds and struggled to find exercise she enjoyed. “I hated the gym, and I hated walking,” she admitted. She started with Irish dance classes before someone told her about Shirley. Debbie contacted Shirley and joined the dance crew. Over the last two and a half years, Debbie has lost 80 pounds. She credits moving to dance for her improved health. For Rini Gaunter, 84, the group reflects a larger philosophy about aging. “Instead of asking ‘Why?’ I ask, ‘Why not?’” she said. Rini believes older adults must continue seeking new experiences and opportunities. “If you can’t find anything that interests you, you’re dead,” she said bluntly. “If it’s not available in your community, ask someone to start it — or start it yourself.” Janice Papcun, 74, first saw the group perform in Medina and immediately wanted to join. “The enthusiasm, the fun, the expressions on everyone’s faces just sold me,” she recalled. She now appreciates how dancing challenges both mind and body. “You could sit crocheting and watching TV,” she said, “but when you’re here moving your body, you want to keep moving.” Shirl Naylor, 69, also rediscovered a passion she thought had been left behind years ago. A childhood tap dancer, she stopped dancing as an adult before eventually returning to it at age 41. “I reached out to Shirley, and it has been amazing ever since,” she said. “It’s so fun to dance again, and I love performing.” Her favorite quote “Dreams have no deadline,” captures the spirit of this group of women. Fran Bass, 79, a retired teacher, believes dancing keeps the brain sharp. “Your body is made to move,” she said. “Dancing works both your right and left brain.” She feels the mental stimulation is just as important as the physical activity. Beth Coleman, 71, a certified yoga instructor, had not yet performed on stage when we spoke, but she was eagerly preparing for her first parade appearance. “I’m preparing now to perform in the Brook Park Memorial Day Parade,” she said excitedly. Beth was drawn to the strong connection between movement, wellness, and community. Shirley Drayer is best described as Just A Numb3r’s “Instigator of Fun.” Before retiring, she owned a cheerleading business and now dedicates her time to organizing performances throughout Northern Ohio and beyond. Helping her is Shirl Naylor. The dancers have performed at “Country Tonight” in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and they will perform aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship in November 2026. There is no charge for Just A Numb3r’s appearances / performances. Perhaps Shirley expressed the mission of Just A Numb3r best when she reflected on aging and visibility. “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve noticed older women tend to disappear and are no longer taken seriously,” she said. “I want us to stay visible because — here we are!” Debbie Rini Janice Shirl Fran Beth continued on next page 13