Ohio Department of Aging
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 17, 2006
COLUMBUS - James Matteson, a Brooklyn Heights resident and owner of Caraso's Bar, discusses his role in thwarting a Cleveland bank robbery with Merle Grace Kearns, Director of the Ohio Department of Aging, in the latest installment of the department's television show, "Finer With Age."
On August 22, Matteson went to his bank only to find himself standing behind a man attempting to rob the bank. After taking $5,000 from a teller the robber then told Matteson, "Get out of my way, old man." The 70-year-old Matteson was not pleased, so he grabbed the robber, slammed him against a wall and onto the floor.
"People sometimes think seniors aren't active and strong just because of their age," said Merle Grace Kearns, Director of the Department and host of the show. "The bank robber learned the hard way not to judge someone based on their age. It was inspiring to meet Mr. Matteson. He is proof that age is just a number."
"I'm not a violent man, but don't go around calling me names," Matteson said of the incident. "I don't call anybody an old man, and I don't appreciate anybody calling me that." The department commends Matteson for his intrepidness, but at the same time reminds all Ohioans to be cautious if faced with a similar situation.
"Finer With Age" is produced monthly by the Ohio Department of Aging and taped at Ohio Government Television in Columbus. The latest episode also includes a discussion with Col. Christine M. Cook, Superintendent of the Ohio Veterans Home Agency, about the "Best Kept Secret in Ohio." It begins airing in October on participating cable access and public broadcasting stations throughout the state. Check your local listings for air times. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com/finerwithage for more on the program.
About ODA
The Ohio Department of Aging serves and represents two million Ohioans age 60 and older. The Department advocates for the needs of all older citizens, with an emphasis on improving the quality of life for older Ohioans, helping them live active, healthy and independent lives, and promoting positive attitudes toward aging and older people. The Department provides services to older Ohioans through 12 area agencies on aging, home and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman and the Golden Buckeye Card. For more information, visit www.goldenbuckeye.com.
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Ohio Department of Aging