Community Corner

Senior Issues Etc. Kicks Off 14th Season

"The most important thing is that we're not a younger group defining what seniors are doing. We're a voice for ourselves," said Vita Verden, host of Senior Issues Etc.

The Senior Issues Etc. television program may deal with issues important to seniors—like nutrition, exercise and protecting oneself from scams—but what makes the program unique is that it is also run by seniors.

The host, Vita Verden, is 81. The show's producer, 83. One of the cameramen is 89, while another is 80, Verden said.

"We're really an old crew to do the work that we do," said Verden. "Despite the fact that we have all sorts of physical infirmities, we're doing good work for our community."

The Libertyville-based Senior Issues Etc.—which can also be seen in Vernon Hills and Evanston—filmed the first show of its 14th season Sept. 16. The show features Verden interviewing the various members of the production crew. They film the show at the Comcast studios in Waukegan.

"The most important thing is that we're not a younger group defining what seniors are doing. We're a voice for ourselves," said Verden.

Verden stumbled into the role as host of Senior Issues when she was approached by Comcast's predecessor, Jones Intercable, about doing a show. 

"It was a hit," said Verden. "I just happened to be in the right place at the right time. I don't have a television background."

The shows are featured on public-access channels. They're also shared on YouTube and through the Senior Issues blog on Libertyville Patch

"We have pioneered this,"  said Verden. When the show first started, Verden said she had to beg people to appear on the show. "Now I have people calling me and wanting to be guests." 

The shows all feature a special guest. The next show, for example, will feature a representative from the Lake County Health Department, along with a local dentist, Verden said. Other shows this season will feature a representative from Advocate Condell's Centre Club, a nutritionist, a police officer talking about scams, and, for Veteran's Day, a World War II veteran. 

After the seniors have finished filming the show, they also do their own editing and graphics, Verden said. They even created their own website. 

"I'm amazed myself because it's beyond where I ever thought this thing could go," said Verden. 

Senior Issues Etc. can be seen on Lake County Comcast Channel 17 on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. Check it out on these channels as well: 

  • Evanston E.C.M.C. Channel 16 on Mondays at 4 p.m., Wednesdays at 10 a.m. and Fridays at 6 p.m.
  • Vernon Hills Comcast Channel 4 on Wednesdays at 5 p.m.
  • Vernon Hills AT&T Channel 99 on Wednesdays at 5 p.m.


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