Joy of Medina County Magazine December 2021 by Joy of Medina County

THE DUCK WHO SAID NO PG. 14 When a local farm’s duck is scared of water, what do you do?

GROW FRESH WINTER GREENS PG. 20 Learn which edible plants can be grown indoors.

RECOGNITION OF GREATNESS PG. 23 Celebrating a man who excels at customer service.

Molding Soldiers The gift of a soldier-molding kit when he was 10 years old introduced Alan McClure to a hobby that became a career and has lasted all of his life. Pg. 4 A locally owned, independent publication dedicated to higher standards of journalism

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

VOLUME 4 NUMBER 11 JOYOFMEDINACOUNTY.COM

Use Your Outdoor Voice by Amy Barnes I am tired of using my indoor voice. Are you, too? Tired of standing by as our jaws drop at the shocking audacity of those who strike out at store owners and employees? It is time for all of the terrific, wonderful, kind people that are out there to be louder than the mean ones. Come on, let us make a ruckus! Make as much noise complimenting an employee as someone else does when berating them. Why are only negative words loud? We cannot stop others from being negative nasties, but we sure can drown them out! Make a joy-filled noise of appreciation every time an employee gets it right. Say, “thank you,” tip as much as you are able, and smile your happiest smile for them. When things do not go as you expected or as good as you had hoped for, be forgiving and kind. So what if your order is wrong? So what if it took extra time because there are only two employees in the store? Be grateful that you are alive and able to enjoy the next time it is perfect. Celebrate the good, and minimize the bad. Take time to enjoy the difference it makes in your life, in those around you. Be there for your friends and family members who need love and encouragement and be willing to accept it for yourself when you need it. Use your outdoor voice and celebrate the good!

It is just like what actually happens in life: If you focus on the negative, even unintentionally, that is eventually all you will see. While it is not easy to change your focus for even three days, it can be done. Try it, what do you have to lose? Depression, anger, hate? Well, did you want to hang on to those? This month we welcome Janine Smalley aboard as the new resident writer for “The Reading Nook.” While we will still publish guest submissions to The Reading Nook, Smalley will be considered our resident writer. You may remember Smalley from our feature story in the November 2021 issue about her farm called Whispering Acres Animal Sanctuary, which can be seen here: https://bit.ly/3jTmoep Smalley said she will be writing children’s stories, but if her first one is an indication of what is to come, I would argue with her that her stories are so heartwarming and real that they are universal. The stories will be true stories about the animals that reside at Whispering Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary and how they learn the skills to have full lives. For this month, Smalley’s story is about a duck who was scared of water and was too traumatized to swim. Daisy made a friend on the farm who taught her how to swim and love being in the water.

Also new this month is a column where local employees will be recognized for giving Want to mess with Facebook and what exemplary customer service. they think they know and understand? Our first one features a submission from Try this. Emily Bly regarding Brandon at Walgreens. Respond to, share, and write ONLY positive Thank you to Bly for her submission, to posts on Facebook for three solid days in a Brandon for being outstanding, and to row. Raymond Groves who kindly helped with When you see a negative post, no matter naming the column. who posted it, ignore it. Get it off your screen as fast as you can.

PUBLISHER Blake House Publishing, LLC EDITOR Amy Barnes ART DIRECTOR Danny Feller PHOTOGRAPHERS FlashBang Photography CARTOONIST Jerry King CONTRIBUTORS Bob Arnold Kelly Bailey Hunter Barnard Shannon Davis Tyler Hatfield Chris Pickens Michelle Riley Janine Smalley Robert Soroky Kent Von Der Vellen MASCOT Rico Houdini ADVERTISING SALES AND OFFICE 330-461-0589 E-MAIL Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com WEBSITE JoyOfMedinaCountyMagazine.com Learn more about the staff at Behind The Scenes, JoyofMedinaCountyMagazine.com Open positions are listed on the website at Open Positions.

JOY of MEDINA COUNTY MAGAZINE is published monthly by Blake House Publishing, LLC, 1114 N. Court, #144, Medina, Ohio 44256. It is distributed as an e-edition and in a print edition. Both editions can be found at JoyofMedinaCountyMagazine.com Copyright 2021 by Blake House Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Any unsolicited materials, manuscripts, artwork, cartoons, or photos will not be returned.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021 DIG IT!

BEST EDIBLE PLANTS FOR INDOOR GARDENING by Michelle Riley Grow fresh, homegrown greens throughout the winter.

BITE ME!

CRUSTLESS POT PIE recipe by Amy Barnes A great cold-weather recipe that takes only a few minutes to dump into a slow cooker.

HEALTH

22 4

4 14

SENTRIES OF HISTORY by Amy Barnes Alan McClure’s childhood passion grew into a worldwide business and filled his life with soldiers.

THE READING NOOK

THE DUCK WHO WOULD NOT SWIM by Janine Smalley When a local duck is scared of swimming, an unexpected new friend splashes in to help.

BUSINESS

by Bob Arnold Successful networking depends on sharing connections.

23 24

by Tyler Hatfield

LOOK OF SUCCESS

THE IN BOX

PLANNING FOR EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

by Robert Soroky

THE JOY OF GREAT SERVICE Giving recognition to those who go above and beyond. GEMS

SHOP WITH A COP FULFILLS WISHES by Kent Von Der Vellen Local officers help children fill their Christmas wish lists.

JOYFUL LETTER DETECTIVES CLUE BOX

MIRTH AND JOY

Read the clue, collect the letters trapped in magnifying glasses, and solve the puzzle!

by Jerry King JOYFUL WORD SEARCH

INTO BATTLE Search for the words from the world of miniature soldiers.

by Shannon Davis

ROLL ’EM!

NOTHING DEFEATS THIS FAMILY by Hunter Barnard A dedication to family and adventure makes this an anyseason hit.

The rules on employee benefits may be changing for business owners.

GETTING REEL

HOME AND GARDEN

ROAD MUNCHIES

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

APPLAUSE! Celebrating local new hires, promotions, certifications earned, and announcements.

by Kelly Bailey Controlled, induced stress can push a body to bounce back better. HEALTHY TRAILS

COMMUNITY

UNDERSTANDING DATA’S PATH

THE NETWORKER

USING INDUCED STRESS TO IMPROVE HEALTH

Food and drink ideas for days on the trails.

FROM A TECHNICAL MIND Are DNS, IP and ISP just so much alphabet soup? Here is an easy way to understand.

OF MIND AND BODY

CRAIG CREATED BOND WITH AUDIENCE

WATCHDOG

by Robert Soroky

QUICK CHECKS EXPOSE SCAMS

Daniel Craig added emotional depth to James Bond in five films.

by Amy Barnes There are a couple simple checks that can help you detect online scams.

VEGAN VITTLES

VEGAN MAC ’N CHEEZ SAUCE

On the front and back covers: photos by Amy Barnes Alan McClure, in his work area, is surrounded by tools of his trade and parts of his collection.

photos by Rob Cervenak and FlashBang Photography A marching band scores and festival attendees enjoy chocolate, brews and wines.

by Chris Pickens A sauce made from cashews that is great on cooked macaroni or steamed vegetables.

OH, SNAP!

LET’S DO IT!

CELEBRATE!

Take a break from the holiday rush and enjoy the best of December’s events. A clickable directory of vetted businesses who bring you Joy!

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

photos and story by Amy Barnes

McClure said that he was chunky as a kid, so it was difficult to find clothes that would fit him. The only ver the nine years that Alan and Becky place his mother could find clothes for him was at McClure have lived on Nottingham Drive in Medina, Wooster’s Freedlander’s, which was much like they have become known in the neighborhood for Cleveland’s Higbee’s. helping others, no matter the trouble, said Becky It was on one such shopping trip that a 9-year-old McClure. McClure spotted a child’s kit to cast toy soldiers. He They even have rescued 23 cats who were either begged to have the kit. strays or were dumped in the neighborhood. On his 10th birthday, he was thrilled to find the kit “We’re just really good at catching cats,” said Becky was his. Marketed for use by children, the kit involved McClure, with a shrug. pouring hot lead into metal molds to make toy What is not as commonly known is that, at one soldiers. time, Alan McClure accidentally became the biggest McClure laughs about it now, looking back and worldwide manufacturer of Marine Corps figures, thinking about what kids were given as toys. something he did not plan when he was a kid playing Making his own toy soldiers to play with entranced with his plastic green Army men on the floor. McClure for awhile but he was an impatient child, he

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

Alan McClure and a very small portion of his massive collection of toy soldiers.

says, so he did not take the time to follow the instructions. The molds were supposed to be heated prior to use, but he was too impatient to wait for the molds to heat, so the soldiers he made often did not turn out, plus he was frustrated because he was limited in the poses and types of soldiers to whatever molds manufacturers made available. “I wanted to make what I wanted to make, not what manufacturers wanted me to make,” he said. Even with getting a second set of molds that were of Civil War figures later on, McClure was soon frustrated again. Because of the lack of variety and the frustration of trying to make the soldiers, McClure set aside his hobby, picking it back up in his 30s, when he had more disposable income.

Over the decades, the metal used for the figures changed from lead to tin, pewter, another lead-free alloy, or even plastic. McClure, however, still makes his from lead and markets them as collectibles, not toys. Another change in production was the molds used for creating the soldiers changed from metal to rubber, McClure said. He found a company that was making silicone rubber molds, and they were making molds for figures he liked. He also found a company that had mold-making kits so he could create his own molds. To make his own mold, he would embed a master figure halfway in clay to make a form, mix the rubber from two liquids, and pour it into a box he had made with interlocking toy bricks, wait 24 hours for it to set, and then do the other half of the figure. continued, Page 6

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

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Figures are displayed in a variety of ways, including creating or recreating battle scenes.

Attack of the giant green soldier? No, just soldiers and cannons waiting for the finishing touch among a jumble of paints and odds and ends.

Alan McClure holds an intricate molded reproduction of soldiers manning a Morse code station. McClure said that it can produce the actual sounds that made up the code. He did not make this figure; it is part of his vast collection.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

Another development in molding was centrifugal casting, where several figures could be cast at once instead of one at a time, speeding up production time. It has not been only the method of production that has changed, it also is that the soldiers are no longer looked at as toys but are viewed as collectibles to be bought, traded and bartered for at shows. “The day of playing with them on the floor is long gone,” McClure said. Sitting in a room where he is surrounded by miniatures, paints, tools, books, collectibles, an entire ham radio setup, and all kinds of other bits and pieces of importance, McClure meticulously paints the soldiers he so dearly loves. “I am not responsible for that room!” yells out Becky McClure. In the space of a mere few inches, Alan McClure paints the figures from battles past with a strong dedication to accuracy. “I’ve always loved toy soldiers for as long as I can remember,” said McClure. After he graduated from Medina High School in 1968, he served for 35 years in the Navy, then worked at a warehouse in shipping and receiving. He has since retired. His actual first name is Doug, but over the years he got asked so many times if he was Doug McClure, the actor, that he decided it was easier to go by his middle name, Alan. He formed his own company and named it Mac’s Military Models as a tribute to his Scottish heritage and to his father, who was called Mac by his mother. In the 1990s, he bought a company called Sea Soldiers, which was owned by a former Marine and specialized in Marine and Navy figures. With the acquisition, McClure obtained painting masters, a stock of castings, molds, and research materials. When he went through the paperwork and supplies for Sea Soldiers, he discovered he also had accidentally purchased a second company called Waterloo Galleries.

Paper soldiers, a newer addition to Alan McClure’s collection and passion, line up on the top two shelves, alongside other collectibles and books from the Tom Swift series. The bottom shelf has part of McClure’s wife’s collection of Victorian-era collectibles.

A variety of soldiers begin the final stage of the production process. continued, Page 8

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

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Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

Alan McClure shows the halves of an older-style mold. Paper soldiers that Alan McClure assembled. The printouts can be purchased online and come as flat sheets of paper to cut out and assemble. continued, Page 10

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

continued from Page 9

Alan McClure peruses one of his many reference books on military uniforms and formations, he is dedicated to accuracy in what he makes and in what he collects. In front of him are the tools of another of his passions: ham radio.

Waterloo focused on Napoleonic, Greek, Roman, Revolutionary War, Civil War, and soldiers up to Desert Storm. With the purchase of the two companies, McClure became the largest manufacturer of Marine Corps figures in the world. He also would eventually buy Bivouac Miniatures, which dealt exclusively in Civil War figures. At the height of his business, he had 25,000 figures and eight bookcases of soldiers. That has decreased some, down to 20,000 nowadays, he said. In approximately 1992, McClure started the Ohio Toy Soldier Show and ran it until he got burned out from all of the work that went into running it and handed the reins over to others. “It wasn’t fun anymore,” McClure said. That did not end the McClures going to shows, however.

“We raised our grandson going to the shows,” Becky McClure said. They have continued to attend the Ohio show as well as traveling to Schaumburg, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, for the annual toy soldier show there. Alan McClure said that the Schaumburg show is so big, it is the equivalent of going to Mecca for pilgrims. “Everybody horse trades there,” McClure said, adding, “Everybody knows everybody, so they cut them deals. We’ve made a lot of friends.” At the show, vendors take over three floors of a hotel, and the wheeling and dealing begins. Barters, trades and sales happen quickly. McClure said a particular soldier figurine might be seen in one vendor’s booth and, minutes later, it has changed hands and is now in another vendor’s booth. It is not uncommon to be up until 2 a.m., wrangling deals and talking, McClure said.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

“You just can’t imagine the money, the friendships, the people from other countries,” said Becky McClure. Alan McClure said the Russian vendors are known for their Medieval pieces they bring while CBG Mignot, which has been around since the time of Napoleon, is world famous for the dioramas they make using the miniature figurines. McClure said their most famous diorama is a depiction of the infamous, “War of the Worlds.” While the couple has not attended the toy soldier show in Columbus for a couple of years now, they have plans to have a booth at the Ohio Toy Soldier Show on May 22, 2022, at the Galaxy Restaurant in Wadsworth. Becky McClure said that during the shows, the women sit and read and run the booths while the men bounce around from booth to booth.

To see more examples of Alan McClure’s work, visit https://bit.ly/3wId3v5 final photo, Page 12

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

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Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

THE READING NOOK

The Duck Who Would Not Swim photos and story by Janine Smalley

nce upon a time, at Whispering Acres Farm, there was a little duck named Daisy. Even though she looked like some of the other animals on the farm, she knew that she was different. You see, Daisy McDuckerman was afraid of the water. She could not swim like all of the other ducks and geese. She would get up every morning with the crows of the roosters and say, “Today is the day, I am going to go swimming with the rest of the ducks.” Then, with a deep breath, she would put her bill high in the air, stretch out her neck and take the bravest step toward the pond. Daisy tried with all her might, but she just could not step off of the shore into the pond. She would get to the edge, stick her toes in, get scared, pull her webbed foot back, and then try again. All of the other ducks were jumping, splashing and diving under the water, quacking with delight in the early morning sunshine. But no matter how brave she would tell herself that she was, she just could not join them. Listening to the others laugh at her, she put her head down and waddled back to safety under the beautiful and fragrant lilac bush. So, while all the other ducks were out splashing and playing in the pond, Daisy just sat and watched. It made her sad that she could not get up the courage to do the same things the other ducks were doing. As she would sit in the shade, she would take a deep breath and wish with all of her heart that she would find a friend that liked her, even though she was different. The sun rose and set many times, and Daisy continued with her same daily routine. Little did she know that things were about to change. Daisy was sitting in the yard, playing in a very shallow mud puddle, and munching on some yummy green beans when she heard the rumbling of tires pulling down the gravel driveway of her farm home. When the dust settled, she saw that a big, shiny black truck had pulled up next to the barn. There was Something in that truck was making a strange sound, a sound that Daisy had never heard before. At

first, the sound scared her, but then, as she listened more, she realized it was a happy sound. Daisy perked her head up and listened more to the highpitched squeals followed by some grunts and then another squealing set of “squeeeeeeeeeeeee, squeeeeeeeee, squeeeeeeeeeeee.” Daisy was getting excited. It always was fun to meet the new friends that came to the farm. Just then, the truck door opened and she saw a ramp come out. Down the ramp came something that sounded like a giant to Daisy. “Boom, boom, boom, boom,” clapped the feet down the ramp. It was pink with big black spots and was kind of hairy with a crinkled-up nose and floppy ears. Daisy had never seen anything like it. She sat there and looked through the fence, wondering what that creature was walking on a leash towards her. Wynter, one of the farm helpers, opened the gate, and the furry thing came walking in, looking so very scared. Daisy knew just what it was like to feel afraid, and she did not want the new animal at the farm to ever feel alone and afraid, so she waddled over to it with a slap, slap of her feet and a bunch of excited, “quack, quacks.” Wynter gave Daisy a pat on the head and introduced her to Patsy the pig. Ahhh, Daisy thought, this is what a pig looks like.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

Once Patsy was off her leash, Daisy led Patsy all around the farm quacking happily the entire time. First, Patsy and Daisy had to stop for a yummy snack of kale and piggy chow. Patsy quickly ate all that was in her bowl, and the two went back to exploring. Daisy showed Patsy where all the good napping spots were, how to find snacks and where she could sleep at night. Patsy could not believe what she was seeing. There was even a nice pillow and blanket in the barn for Patsy to call her very own. Patsy never had a pillow and a blanket of her own, and now she was feeling like the most special pig in the world! Daisy noticed something new in the pasture. “What was that?” she wondered, as Patsy sprinted over to it. It was a little pool with just enough water in it for the big pig to roll around in and cool off. Patsy looked over to Daisy who was watching her happily splash around. With an oink and a grunt, Patsy invited Daisy to come on in and swim. Daisy quacked and shook her head saying, “No.” This confused Patsy greatly. A duck that would not go swimming? No way, she thought, ducks love to swim.

Daisy’s first swim with her new friend Patsy.

So, Patsy oinked, squealed and showed Daisy that her feet could touch the bottom and that it would be OK to get in the water. Daisy sighed and waddled over to the little pool, stuck one foot in, and then the other. “Oh, my gosh,” she thought, “I am in the water. I am swimming, I am swimming!” The next thing she knew, she was splashing around and swimming happily alongside Patsy. Water was splashing all over the place, the chickens were dodging water droplets, and the goats were happily jumping and bucking around, celebrating Daisy’s swimming victory. As they continued to swim beneath the warm summer sun, the goats, chickens and ducks stood around the pool clucking, quacking and happily bleating as they celebrated Daisy’s first swim. Want to meet the animals in the story? They all live at author Janine Smalley’s Whispering Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary, Medina. For more information about Whispering Acres, go to https://bit.ly/3AxRqha or https://bit.ly/3Byx3lx .To arrange a time to visit, call 440212-6769. Donations can be made at https://bit.ly/ 3lwVbiD Whispering Acres is a 501c3 organization.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

BUSINESS: FROM A TECHNICAL MIND

Understanding Data’s Path by Tyler Hatfield When visiting a website, you probably do not consider how your phone or computer finds that information. While all we see is data appearing in front of us, all of that information had to travel thousands of miles and through dozens of devices and systems to reach us. When you enter a URL into a web browser, your device first has to find where that points to since special computers, called servers, host the data you need. Servers have an address similar to a house address, so your device needs to find it. Your device will send the request out to your internet service provider (ISP) first. Once there, it is sent off to a set of special servers designed to store and remember where every website points to or to remember another server that will know. These special computers, called Domain Name Servers (DNS server), use the name of the website you are trying to find to look up the server's address that holds the data for it. These addresses are called internet protocol addresses (IP addresses). Every device connected to the internet has an IP address, though your home network has one main IP address for your house that your devices share. While this may sound complicated, an easy way to think about this process is to compare it to the postal system. First, you send a request (your piece of mail) for Example.net to your post office (your ISP). The post office then sends your mail to a sorting center, in this case, a DNS server.

The sorting center then looks up the address of Example.net and sends your mail to the nearest post office or sends it to another sorting center closer to the address. Once close enough, the sorting center sends the mail down to the local post office, the recipient's ISP, to be delivered to the end address where the website's server is located. After that request is received, assuming all goes to plan, the server ships a package full of the website's data back to you using the same process. In most cases, data travels faster than the blink of an eye over the internet. However, things can go wrong on every level, causing outages to homes or making websites suddenly go down and stop working. The most dangerous of these outages are DNS outages where the sorting system can no longer function. Without DNS servers, your requests are not able to reach other devices and vice versa. These types of outages are rare, but they do happen. We will explore how and why this affected Facebook.com in a recent outage in next month’s column. Tyler Hatfield has a passion for technology that he would like to someday turn into his own business. He runs a small media group, hatsmediagroup.com, and works on computers on the side. He can be contacted with questions and for recommendations at hatsmediagroup@gmail.com

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

BUSINESS: THE NETWORKER

Look of Success

Bringing good people good companies

by Bob Arnold It is really exciting when things come together at a networking event! It brings out the kid in me. Let me explain. I was at a networking event the other day and met Sandy (alias) and she was explaining to me that she loves to invest in old houses, yet finds the titling process to be quite complicated and troubling. She wished she could find an agent who is well versed in navigating these unique title landscapes. After a few questions, I learned she likes to buy within certain neighboring communities and likes century homes that have a lot of character left in them. Sandy laughs because the kind of house she wants to invest in is the kind of house her friends turn their noses up at and tell her she is crazy. She just smiles at them and knows she is on the right track. I was puzzled about something though. “Tell me more about the title agent you need,” I said. She responded, “Well, I’ve had some real issues trying to get agents to understand the complexity and historic tangles various owners have gotten into when they owned the home. A lot of that stuff ends up mucking up a title and creates complicated paths to a sale. I want someone who can focus with me as I search out properties and look for the best buys.” I asked her if she knows of someone she could use an introduction to. To my glee, she said, “Well, I’ve heard that XYZ Agency has some experience in this type of work.” To which I replied, “I know ABC over there and I’ve heard that he handles old houses like they were his own.” “I’ve heard his name before. Do you think you could introduce me to him?” she asked. I replied, “Absolutely, but I’ll go one better. Let’s meet for coffee later this week, and I’ll have him join us and introduce the two of you directly.” She smiled! I smiled! This is how success appears at a networking event.

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Bob Arnold is the founder of ONward Networking and the international best-selling author of “The Uncanny Power of the Networking Pencil,” which can be purchased at https:// amzn.to/2KSy3Xm. More networking tips are available at “Bob’s Pencil Points” blog at http://onwardnetworking.com/ or by contacting Arnold at TheNetworkingPencil@gmail.com

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Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

BUSINESS: THE IN BOX

Planning for Employee Benefits by Shannon Davis Small business owners know there are many expenses and considerations when hiring employees to help build and manage a business. One of those expenses is employee benefits. While pension plans have been steadily declining over the past 25 years, there are now more options available. Although most options are self-funded, employers are still making contributions, but the onus is on the employee. Since 2012, states have been studying, proposing and enacting legislation to implement state-facilitated savings programs. Proposed federal legislation would mandate that employers who have been in business for more than two years and have five or more employees have retirement savings plans. Many states are attempting to put their own programs in force prior to a federal program implementation. In September, Ohio introduced a bill and referred it to the InHouse Committee to establish an auto-enrollment retirement savings program for private-sector employees. Small businesses are competing for employees by increasing employee pay and offering sign-on bonuses, but providing an employer-sponsored retirement plan could be an even greater incentive.

To quote U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, Ways and Means Committee chairman, “We know that having an employersponsored retirement plan is key to preparing for retirement, but nearly half of American private-sector employees work for an employer that doesn’t offer a retirement plan.” Some retirement savings vehicles may seem familiar, and some are more affordable than others: � 401(k) � Solo 401(k) � 403(b) � 457(b) � IRA � Roth IRA � Self-directed IRA � SIMPLE IRA � SEP IRA � HSA Solopreneurs actually have many considerations over and above the well-known retirement savings of a traditional IRA or a Roth IRA. Besides the benefit of saving for the future, these options can provide different tax benefits. The three basic questions to ask when starting to plan are: � Would deferment of paying taxes until retirement years be preferential? � Should you pay taxes now and not have to pay taxes when you withdraw your money later? � Are there other choices? These are the options to consider when saving and planning for future employer requirements. Shannon Davis is a financial advisor, entrepreneur and resident of Medina County. She is an advocate for financial literacy and a How Money Works educator. Have questions? Davis can be reached by calling 303-916-3864 or by visiting https://howmoneyworks.com/shannondavis

BUSINESS New hires, promotions, certifications earned, and announcements

Congratulations to Popping Tabs Medina County and Surrounding Areas, headed by Theresa Forlini-Petrey and family! With the enthusiastic help of the community, they collected 1,320 pounds of can tabs, an estimated total of 1,672,440 tabs. The family will deliver them to the Akron Ronald McDonald House and start collecting for the 2022 effort. For more details, see the story in the September 2021 issue of Joy of Medina County Magazine, https://bit.ly/3GG6vBN

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

HOME AND GARDEN: WATCHDOG

HOME AND GARDEN: VEGAN VITTLES

Quick Checks Expose Scams

Vegan Mac ’N Cheez Sauce

by Amy Barnes

by Chris Pickens

How do you know if someone is legitimate or is trying to scam you through social media or e-mails? There are a couple of easy checks to do that can quickly answer that question. A super-easy way to check if a social media profile or page is fake is to look in the “address” box at the top of your computer screen. When you are communicating with someone and the address has either the person’s name or the name of their company at the end of the URL, there is a good chance you are talking to the person they claim to be. If the address has a different name in it or it is misspelled,

Welcome to northeast Ohio! The colder temperatures are really kicking in now. If asked what is one thing that this area is known for, many would say cold winter weather! There are some people who appreciate the beauty that the snow-covered terrain offers, and when the sun decides to show up, it makes the area look almost like a postcard! For the rest of us, we continue to live here trying to get used to it, maybe even counting the days until spring. It cannot last forever! One way some of us choose to adapt is by making and enjoying this delectable and creamy sauce. What a very pleasant way to warm the body from the inside out! Happy winter, friends! Oh, and before I forget, stay warm and be happy!

then it is unlikely you are talking to the person you think you are. One exception to this is if someone created their Facebook profile and had a subsequent name change, such as a woman getting married, the names may not match up completely. Checking the name in the URL is not fail safe, but it at least is an easy first step in verifying who you are communicating with or who has sent you a friend request. Get in the habit of checking those URLs, and you may be surprised by what you can learn. Along the same line as checking URLs, how about the emails you get? Before you click an e-mail (no matter what they have promised!), take a look at the actual return e-mail address. Are they claiming to be with a company, but the e-mail’s .com address has someone’s name instead of a legitimate company name? Not legitimate. Look out for those e-mails that claim you have been “honored” with being added to a Who’s Who list, too. Check the e-mail it was sent from, and it quickly becomes obvious it is a scam to get your personal information. I get no fewer than five such notices in a week and each one is sent from a personal name, not a company. I block each as they come. Work at making these checks a habit, and it can help save you a lot of grief down the road.

1 ½ cups cashews 3 tablespoons lemon juice ¾ cup water 1 ½ teaspoons salt ¼ cup nutritional yeast flakes ½ teaspoon chili powder ½ clove garlic (can chop up into small pieces) ¼ teaspoon ground turmeric ½ teaspoon ground mustard Cover cashews with lukewarm water and presoak for at least two hours. After soaking, drain, and add rest of ingredients. Blend in a blender or food processor until smooth. This sauce is best when used immediately after preparing. It can be added to cooked macaroni or even some steamed veggies. Chris Pickens is a certified holistic nutrition coach, a health and wellness coach, a holistic health practitioner, and a holistic health coach. She has been a vegan since 2016 and enjoys sharing her recipes. She can be contacted at momof4chris@gmail.com

R photo by Marcus Winkler

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

HOME AND GARDEN: DIG IT!

Think about how deep the vegetable Best Edible Plants will grow when deciding on a dish for Indoor Gardening or pot size. column and photos by Michelle Riley Understanding that December, months after the garden has been put to rest and cool season crops months before you will get to dance through it once again, such as lettuce, leaves you with a sense of space. Swiss chard, This space can sometimes feel as an unfulfilled craving. The kohlrabi, kale, and extent of the cravings may range from one extreme to another. spinach like cooler For example, a mild craving may nudge you to look at pictures temperatures, of plants for moments or possibly hours, while making encourages you to meticulous notes on who or what this specimen is and where its place them in a perfect new home will be in the garden. cooler spot in the You may even lament over a plant that did your garden wrong home, while also this past season, insulted your sense of gardening, and made its offering them four presence unbearable. to six hours of Swiss chard Note-making eases your gardening mind and gives you a sunlight. center, a foundation in which you can draw upon to create the Did you know, a simple desk lamp with a sunlight bulb is best garden yet this coming year. sufficient? Journal these experiences, they will help your garden grow. Snow may be falling soon, are you starting to have garden Some may tell you to cure this craving by visiting the local withdrawal? Need a quick fix? Leafy lettuce offers the quickest grocery, grabbing the nearest succulent, purchasing it, lovingly return on labor. naming it Fred and placing it by your reading chair. Depending where you are on the craving spectrum, Fred may work. Michelle Riley is a local horticulturist, landscape designer, and Would it not be more exhilarating to grow something from consultant. She is the founder of the gardening subscription seed? service, https://theplantmall.com/; https:// One of the easiest cures to fill that space between fall and michellerileyhorticulturist.com ; and https://neohiogarden.com spring is to grow something. With as little as a paper cup and a She also is the president of All About You Signature Landscape bit of soil you can grow leafy lettuce quite easily. A plastic bowl Design, Inc. Riley can be contacted at widens your horizons and your lettuce crop. Try radishes, Info@MichelleRileyHorticulturist.com or by calling 234-678onions or even carrots in a deeper dish. 8266.

Kohlrabi

Kale

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

HOME AND GARDEN: BITE ME!

Crustless Pot Pie by Amy Barnes Depending on whether you use two or three cans of soup, this can come out with a thicker gravy or can come out more souplike, it is a completely flexible recipe. If prepared more souplike, biscuits or dinner rolls make a wonderful side. One of the things I love about this recipe is that the chicken breasts can be purchased when on sale, frozen, and when ready to make this dish, no defrosting is necessary! This is a meal that all ingredients can be easily stored, takes minutes to throw together, and you can work on other things while it cooks. • 6 boneless, frozen chicken breasts • • • • •

1 bag frozen vegetables 1 can cream of broccoli cheese soup 1 can cream of chicken soup ½ cup sliced mushrooms 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon granules

Place ingredients, in order listed, into slow cooker. The frozen vegetables can be any of your choice. Add one soup can of water, adding more later if needed. If want to have it more souplike, add a third can of cream soup and another can of water. Good options for the third can of soup are cream of celery or asparagus. Cook on high for approximately six hours or on low for 10 to 12 hours. Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for the thicker version. Cook’s tip: Freeze leftover rice in portion sizes. It heats easily in a microwave, retains its moisture and is as if fresh made. Want to have your recipe featured in a future issue? Send it with your name, phone number (in case we have questions), the city you live in, and some information about you to: Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com with “recipe” in the subject line. Recipes MUST be your original recipe or one you have highly modified and thus made your own. By submitting a recipe, you are guaranteeing it is one you have developed or modified and used. This is open to all ages who would like to submit a recipe.

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Our bath salt is designed to Relax Your Body + Soul. Prized European salts and our special formula create an experience like no other. More than a body scrub, Botara Bath Salt is skin therapy. It also soothes muscle aches, pains, and tired feet. It’s like your personal massage and shower refresher.

Substitutions Chart

Substitutions for those moments when you are in a pinch! • Greek yogurt for Mayonnaise • Lemon juice for vinegar • Mustard powder or saffron for turmeric • Cinnamon or mace for cardamom • 2 cups sifted powdered sugar or ¾ cup honey for 1 cup sugar • 1 ¼ cups sugar plus ¼ cup water for 1 cup of honey • ½ cup white sugar plus 2 tablespoons of molasses=1/2 cup brown sugar • Plain yogurt for sour cream • Light cream or half-and-half for evaporated milk • 2/3 cup evaporated milk for 1 cup heavy cream (not for whipping) • 7/8 cup shortening for 1 cup butter • Keep a box of powdered milk in the freezer in case of running out of milk.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

HEALTH: OF MIND AND BODY Using Induced Stress To Improve Health by Kelly Bailey Are you comfortable with discomfort? Have you ever noticed that the actions and activities that will make you fit and healthy are often a little, er, painful? The human body is an adaptive-reactive system. That means it needs to be stressed just enough to cause a reaction. This reaction often causes discomfort but also is what forces the body to bounce back better. I can think of three things I do almost every day that are uncomfortable, but also are science-backed ways to improve health. 1. Exercise. Exercise pushes you to your mental and physical limits. You breathe hard, sweat and sometimes get sore. In the gym, I am always trying to get one more rep or go a little heavier. It is hard! But the body needs this kind of stress to build back stronger. If you want to see big improvements in your health in less time, try strength training two to three times per week. 2. Infrared sauna. Short bouts of extreme heat or cold are actually good for the body and force positive biological adaptations. In fact, our genetic code seems to expect this kind of stress (after all, most of our evolutionary history happened outside in extremes of weather). I recommend using it two to five times per week. 3. Fasting. Hunger causes discomfort, but it is good for us. Going for periods without eating gives your digestive system a break and forces your body to utilize stored body fat and old proteins for energy. To make it simple, stop eating by 7 p.m. and do not eat again until about 9 a.m. the next day. This moderate 14-hour daily fast is great for general health. So, the next time you feel uncomfortable and want to quit, remember that it is not laziness! More than likely, it is a fear of the discomfort. Lean into it and know that your body is being forced to adapt and will bounce back better than ever! A certified personal trainer and certified holistic nutrition coach, Kelly Baily owns and operates Kelly Bailey Wellness. Find her blog, visit the Food Freedom page, and contact her at https://www.kellybailey.fit/ Following any recommendations are solely at your discretion and responsibility. Consult your medical professional prior to undertaking any suggested diet, lifestyle or exercise change or routine.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

HEALTH: HEALTHY TRAILS

Road Munchies by Robert Soroky On occasion, some riders, like myself, love to spend an entire afternoon on the bike, whether it is tackling city roads for longdistance training rides or leisurely cruising the Cuyahoga Valley and Cleveland Metroparks bike trails. The challenge, though, on these day-long adventures is the ability to stay fed and hydrated. Of course, stopping at a quaint little town deli is always fun, but if those stops are too far off the route or you just do not want to take that long of a break, then packing some snacks for the afternoon is a wise call. As a fitness rider, I prefer to pack as little as possible on my bike, bringing just enough “stuff” to fit in a small bag under the seat. With storage at a premium, food selections need to be small packages that deliver a lot of kick. Starting with hydration, I like to bring at least two insulated water bottles carried in brackets mounted to the bike frame. To ensure I am getting enough vitamins, minerals and electrolytes, I fill the bottles with water, then pop in natural-flavored supplement tablets. These tablets typically have fewer calories and less sugar than traditional sport drinks, making them a healthier hydration alternative. Plus, a tube of these tablets fits

easily in a small under-seat bag, so any time I need to refill my water bottles on the go, I have a solid supply! On the food side, I pack a few high-protein bars and sport gummies and gels, all of which are loaded with everything needed to keep me going. What is cool about the gels and gummies is that they are available in a cornucopia of flavors, and they provide various levels of ingredients based on what kind of effort being exerted. For example, some may have a higher sodium content for those who sweat excessively or are prone to getting muscle cramps on high-exertion, high-heat days. Bottom line, you do not have to pack a refrigerator’s worth of food when heading out for a day on a bike. Robert Soroky is a lifelong cyclist who regularly participates in long-distance charity rides and is the manager of the Century Cycles Medina location. Contact Soroky at robert@centurycycles.com to suggest column topics, for further information or to chat about bikes.

COMMUNITY

Giving kudos to those who are providing great service at area businesses

Emily Bly was thrilled recently with the above-and-beyond customer service she received from Brandon at Walgreens. Here is what she had to say, “I sent him a card with some gift

I literally had a sense of calmness come over me because I knew he was the one taking care of me. I knew everything would be correct. He remembered my name and remembered me, when I

cards in it and also spoke to his manager, Gus. I also contacted

have not even been there in over a year. His customer service

corporate. I used to go to Walgreens a lot (about a year ago) for

and the way he treats and speaks to customers is on a whole

the pharmacy, and sometimes I would get him taking care of me other level than anyone else in that store. Long story short, he is and he was always the most polite and super friendly. Well, they amazing. These days good help is very hard to find, and this kid had a recent turnover of employees and honestly, I have missed is a gem!” seeing familiar faces. The service hasn’t been the same. Then when I went the other day, Brandon answered the phone in the

Has an employee at a local store made your day? Gone that extra

pharmacy drive-through and he literally made my day by what

mile to help? Send your name, the employee’s name, place of

an exceptional employee he is. I knew with him, everything

employment, date of occurrence, and what made your experience

would be correct and no issues would happen. (Sometimes

special to Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com Recognition limited to

getting scripts filled can be frustrating due to doctor orders,

those employed within Medina County.

pharmacy not having, or scripts not being called in by doctors).

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

COMMUNITY: GEMS

Shop With a Cop Fulfills Wishes by Kent Von Der Vellen Every December for the last seven years, children in Medina County have had the opportunity to Shop with A Cop for Christmas. Brett Robertson, Medina County Law Enforcement Association president, said they receive between 110 to 150 recommendations from local school systems for children to participate each year. There is no application or specific requirements to participate, and it is left up to the schools to recommend students who could benefit. Occasionally, another source will make a referral, as well. Elementary and middle school students are recommended for the program, and it is common for older and younger siblings to be included. The program is meant to help those in need celebrate Christmas and help children become comfortable talking to and being around police officers. MCLEA was created as a 501C3 in 2016 to help facilitate the Shop with a Cop program. Darren Stout, president of the Medina County Fraternal Order of Police #204, said they partner with MCLEA to raise funds and organize the Shop with a Cop program. Although they hold fundraising events during the year, the majority of funds come from individuals, businesses and organizations in Medina County. On the day of the event, there will be roughly 150 officers volunteering their time and another 150 volunteers from around the community helping make the day a success. The officers come from 13 law enforcement agencies that are part of FOP #204. Each law enforcement agency helps to make the day a success by allowing the use of their vehicles by the officers volunteering their time. Shop with a Cop is modeled after a similar program the Wadsworth Fraternal Order of the Police has held for several Christmas seasons. Medina County FOP members would volunteer at the Wadsworth program and decided they needed to bring it to other communities. The day starts early with each child arriving at their designated law enforcement headquarters, where they will meet their personal officer of the day. After checking in, they ride with their officer to Blue Herron to enjoy a continental breakfast at 9 a.m. After breakfast, they take part in a parade of squad cars, firetrucks and other emergency vehicles which delivers them to Walmart to shop. Stout said it is amazing the level of community support they receive along the parade route as cars pull over and people come out of their homes and stores to wave as they drive by. This year, they are hoping to convince Santa to lead the parade in a Cleveland Clinic helicopter. Walmart brings in extra employees to help the children and

Medina County Law Enforcement Association, LLC DBA: MCLEA 3593 Medina Road, Suite 283 Medina, Ohio 44256 (330)714-7513 Web address: Date of formation: 08/01/2016 Organization type: 501(c)(3) Description of Organization’s Purpose: Raising funds for Shop With a Cop and support of community programs Is the organization's registration status current? Yes The financial information below is from the organization’s most recent filing within the on-line system. If the items below are blank, the organization has not yet filed information on-line or they may be exempt from filing an annual report. Reporting Year: 2019 Reporting Start Date: 1/1/2019 Reporting End Date: 12/31/2019 Total Revenue: Total Expenses: Total Program Expenses: Percent of Total Expenses: Total Assets:

their officers find the items on their lists. The kids take the opportunity to get items they want, but Robertson and Stout said the kids are surprising in how thoughtful they can be by buying toys for siblings, something for their parents, and practical items, like a coat and clothes. Each child is given $100 to spend, and it is not uncommon for an officer to help with few extra bucks when the price goes over a bit. One year, a child purchased a basketball goal, and the officers arranged for it to be delivered to the child’s home and set up. After the children finish shopping, they return to Blue Herron for lunch and a chance to play until their parents pick them up. This year’s Shop with a Cop will be Saturday, December 4. The lights-and-sirens parade that transports the children on their shopping trip is expected to travel through Medina Public Square sometime between 9:15 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. The public is invited to line the parade route to cheer for the kids and officers. For more information, contact a local law enforcement agency or visit FOP #204 at https://bit.ly/3wnjPGt . Kent Von Der Vellen is a 20-year Medina resident. He has been a volunteer for various youth sports teams, is a member of the Medina Lions Club, and, with his wife, Kim, founded the Jakob F. Von Der Vellen Memorial Foundation. Contact Von Der Vellen by e-mailing Gems@BlakeHousePublishing.com or by calling 330-421-0863. Learn what other area nonprofits need by visiting Giving Hearts under the Help tab at https://www.joyofmedinacountymagazine.com/ .

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

Want more Joy? Subscribe to our e-edition and get Joy no matter where you go! Use this link https://bit.ly/30duSlB to start your subscription. Want to read Joy in print? Visit Medina County libraries where you can find Joy of Medina County Magazine as an official, cataloged publication in the Periodicals section of the library. Joy also can be found in the Medina Library’s Historic Archives! For more information about Joy of Medina County Magazine, visit our website: https://bit.ly/38WotiH

Joyful Word Search December Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021 2021 Joyful Word Search Into Battle Into Battle

MIRTH AND JOY by Jerry King

L A R P T F P Y R A E W T B S D O Q O J W T L T V M

C Z S R E I D L O S H P E

I P Z D I L N B M T L L M

TOY SOLDIERS TOY SOLDIERS LEAD LEAD COLLECTIBLE COLLECTIBLE HANDMADE HANDMADE SELL SELL PAINTED PAINTED BATTLE TENTH BATTLE

R P N P K E A T N O B Q T

O O H B R T N E E I L O L

T K D A T E T D T D Y D Y

S Y S L N S C C S L Q M S

TENTH HISTORICAL MOLDS WOOSTER CHILD PRECISION SCENES FRIENDS

I H E E D D E I Y L E T J

H T S L N L M D S T Z A D

B A K E L E I A A I D Q D

R C B O L X C H D R O P G

D B C N L L T S C E T N L

TRADES CATHY KOPP* HISTORICAL MOLDS WOOSTER *Congratulations to CHILD PRECISION Cathy Kopp! She SCENES solved our October FRIENDS “Letter Detectives” TRADES CATHY KOPP puzzle.

Joyful Word Search Answer Key for Last Month’s Search Whisper of Home Whisper of Home

“I’m just one big, weird thing.”

"Everybod wantin' to kno y's been w nobody's tellin somethin', but ' nobody nothin '."

T K N I O K R A B

R L Y B K Q A T H

O D G C L A T O Y

N B A N B E N J M

S U T E I K A E L

Q A Y L D K L B C L WW O O T N Z M

A D N B U B Z R K

A M Y D N Z O G C K WW T D T Y C R

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: ROLL ’EM!

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: GETTING REEL

Nothing Defeats This Family

Craig Created Bond With Audience

by Hunter Barnard Movie: “The Addams Family 2” Viewed: movie theater Rating:

For my movie review this month, we went to the theater and saw “The Addams Family 2.” It was a really funny movie, and I really liked the story, too. The characters were all pretty funny and I ended up liking it even more than the first one! This movie definitely gets a top rating from me. This Addams Family movie is about them going on a road trip. They want to spend some time together as a family, and they go to lots of cool places. The whole family goes on the road trip, including the family member I think is my favorite character in this movie, Uncle Fester. Uncle Fester is really funny, and Wednesday does an experiment on him that makes him look funny sometimes, too. The family is taken by Uncle Fester to Niagra Falls, which is a really neat place that has the biggest waterfall ever. Even though no one else was expecting to go there, it looked really fun. My favorite part of the movie was toward the end when Uncle Fester got turned into a funny-looking animal by Wednesday. She is really good at science, and I think she is really cool, too. Uncle Fester knew what he was doing though, even when he was turned into a monster, and he was able to still help his family. I thought that part was really nice. I thought the movie overall was really funny, it had lots of funny parts and good jokes. I enjoyed the Addams Family because they always make me laugh, but this movie is my favorite. It had a happy ending, which is the most important part. I think it is a great movie even when it is not Halloween! Hunter Barnard is an energetic 8-year-old who is a former Brunswick resident who now attends Berea City Schools and likes to share his opinion. He is assisted in writing his column by his mother, Jessica Rapenchuk.

by Robert Soroky Movie: “No Time to Die” Viewed: movie theater Rating: “The name’s Bond. James Bond.” After 15 years and five movies, actor Daniel Craig has delivered this iconic phrase for the final time. “No Time to Die,” the swan song for Craig’s tenure as Ian Fleming's master spy, rounds out a complex story arc first introduced, along with Craig himself, in 2006’s “Casino Royale.” Craig has been masterful in his portrayal of James Bond. Not only did he capture the rugged toughness reminiscent of Sean Connery’s Bond, but he also brought a deeper emotional perspective to the character, adding traits like vulnerability and compassion. The audience was brought closer to Bond than ever before through Craig’s multi-dimensional portrayal of Bond, which was significantly more relatable. This connection would pay big dividends in “No Time to Die.” For me, though, the most fascinating part about the Craigera of Bond movies (“Casino Royale,” “Quantum of Solace,” “Skyfall,” “Spectre,” and “No Time to Die”) is that they construct an actual beginning, middle and end to the James Bond character. This is unique as, traditionally, Bond movies tend to be episodic in nature, each one its own contained story, with little need to see any of the others to gain context. Craig’s movies, however, played out like a mini-series, taking us through Bond’s entire MI6 career, from earning his double-0 status as a rookie agent, through the ultimate mission that brings his illustrious career to a gut-wrenching close. As for “No Tme to Die,” the final movie in the arc, there is a lot to unpack, and every detail is a spoiler. Therefore, my mouth is sealed. What I can say, though, is that it is the perfect wrap-up and send-off for Craig’s James Bond. It has action, suspense, beautiful girls, crazy car chases, classic Bond one-liners and, of course, the tried-and-true gadgets from Q. It is also pleasant, heartfelt and deeply emotional, something not always associated with a Bond film. I laughed and cried through this one. I left the theater quietly appreciating the awesome journey through Craig’s Bond movies and how Craig made his time as an MI6 agent truly special. Robert Soroky is a lover of science fiction and a lifelong cyclist who regularly participates in long-distance charity rides and is the manager of the Century Cycles Medina location. Contact Soroky at robert@centurycycles.com to chat about science fiction or bikes, he loves to hear from readers!

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

The Buckeye Marching Band performed at the State Band Finals in Medina in November and earned a Superior Rating, the highest possible for a band. photo by Rob Cervenak

Smiles, food and silent actions were served up recently at the Seventh Annual Fall Festival: Wine, Brew and Chocolate, Too, at the Galaxy Restaurant, 201 Park Center Drive, Wadsworth. The fundraiser raised approximately $14,500 for the YMCA, said Amy Phillips, YMCA interim executive director.

Absorbed in watching the festivities were, from left, Janelle Sailer, Nate Sailer, Rick Davis, Denise Uhler, and George Uhler. photo by FlashBang Photography

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

photo by FlashBang Photography Event co-chairwomen Beth Kilchenman, left, and Tana Fligor were all smiles. photo by FlashBang Photography

James Kreuscher was the evening’s featured speaker. Kreuscher spoke on how much value he gets as a YMCA member. He suffered a heart attack at the YMCA facility at 623 School Drive, Wadsworth, and his life was saved by YMCA staff and fellow YMCA members. He also credits the YMCA with helping and supporting him through his recovery. Photo by FlashBang Photography continued, Page 30

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

continued from Page 29

photo by FlashBang Photography

Jill Kolesar, Akron Area YMCA chief executive officer, present flowers to Emily Lee, Wadsworth YMCA executive director, thanking her for her service to the YMCA, while Amy Phillips, Wadsworth YMCA interim executive director, applauds. photo by FlashBang Photography

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

Not sure what Linda Riemenschneider said to Bud Riemenschneider, but it looks like he is about to have a comeback to it! photo by FlashBang Photography

Enjoying chocolate and laughs are, from left, Ashley Texter, Steve McIlvaine, Sara McIlvaine, Tana Fligor, Lori McIlvaine, and Alex McIlvaine. photo by FlashBang Photography continued, Page 32

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

continued from Page 31

Representing Honey Bee Bakery were, from left, Kimberly McDonald, Maddie Polk and Emmy Coyle. photo by FlashBang Photography

The friendly cashiers for the evening were, from left, Helen Kiko, Victoria Gonzalez and Ann Marie Christoff. photo by FlashBang Photography

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

photo by FlashBang Photography

Here’s a toast to you, from Ron and Beth Klichenmen! photo by FlashBang Photography

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

December 2021 Nonprofit Calendar K Wednesday, December 1

Eat a Red Apple Day https://bit.ly/3kCiIxU Alcohol Ink Candles, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Sycamore Rooms North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Make candle using alcohol ink. Two candles will be provided, but can bring more from home to decorate. Register for 1:30 p.m. session at https://bit.ly/3kBJ3vS and 6:30 p.m. session at https://bit.ly/3qz9XbG Bored Games, 2:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Enjoy board games with others Grades 6 through 12. Holiday Paper Straw Wreath, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Make a holiday wreath. Register at https://bit.ly/ 3cd8mzO Considering DNA Testing for Genealogy? 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Community Rooms A and B, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Compare companies and options, details to consider. Virtual option available. Register at https://bit.ly/3DiMD5o

Thursday, December 2

Fritters Day American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., St. Mark Lutheran Church, 1330 N. Carpenter Street, Brunswick. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp Camp Wired: Shopping Online Safely, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Computer Lab, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Learn safety tips, how to get best prices, shipping costs returns, more. Register at https://bit.ly/3FcPzBa Tween Thursday: Amazing Mazes, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Ages 9 to 14. Crafts, build gadgets, crack codes, play games, more. Legal Resource Center, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Olive Meyer Room, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Domestic Relations Court volunteers help those not represented by a lawyer in family court. First come, first served. Masks required. Medina High School Holiday Choir Concert, 7 p.m., Medina Performing Arts Center, 851 Weymouth Road, Medina. Senior citizens and students, $4; adults, $6. Go to http://medinachoir.com/ for ticket information.

Friday, December 3

Make a Gift Day American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Medina Community Recreation Center, 855 Weymouth Road, Medina. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp December First Friday: Santa! 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Santa and Mrs. Claus pop in for photos, crafts, more. Encore Holiday Extravaganza; 6 p.m., activities for children begin in the lobby; concert begins at 7 p.m., Medina Performing Arts Center, 851 Weymouth Road, Medina. Activities for children include games, crafts, stories, cookies, and a photo opportunity with Santa. Concert includes sing-alongs and is open to all ages. Reserved seats, $9; children younger than 12, $4. Go to http://medinachoir.com/ for ticket information. If Medina makes it to the football semifinals, the Extravaganza will be moved to December 4, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, December 4

Skywarn Recognition Day https://bit.ly/3ox8Erf Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK A Healthy Dose of Nature: Hiking Series, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Oenslager Nature Center, Sharon Center. Vigorous 3- to 5-mile hike with naturalist, dress for weather, wear appropriate footwear, bring own water. Ages 10 and up. No registration, free Student Digital Art Workshop: Basics of Procreate, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m, Hosted by Cliffside Artists Collaborative. Breakfast, lunch, and iPads will be provided. Must take this class prior to Advanced Procreate on Dec. 10. Class limited to 14 high school students. Free. For more information and a link to register, go to https://bit.ly/3CkvEhH Shop With a Cop Parade, sometime between 9:15 a.m. and 9:45 a.m., Public Square, Medina. A lights-and-sirens parade transporting kids on their Shop With a Cop trip to Walmart. Contact Natalie Santivasci, 330725-7777 or nsantivasci@medinaoh.org, for more information. Adapted Storytime, 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., Story Time Room, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Supportive environment for children with autism and/or sensory integration challenges. Register at https://bit.ly/3kD5OQ3 C is for Cookie Storytime, 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Celebrate National Cookie Day with story and activity. Register at https://bit.ly/3c993Kw Mittler’s Flea Market, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Kitten Krazy, 930 Lafayette Road, Medina. Huge indoor space, some outside when weather permits. All proceeds benefit Kitten Krazy, a nonprofit cat adoption center. Donations accepted of anything in clean, useable condition. Holidays at Hambley, noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Visit and enjoy the holiday decorations. All ages. Winter Wonderland, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., downtown Lodi. Santa, reindeer, horse-drawn wagon rides, crafts, face painting, bonfire, treats, and more!

Sunday, December 5

International Ninja Day Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Holidays at Hambley, noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Visit and enjoy the holiday decorations. All ages. Save Ohio Strays Meet and Greet, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Petco, 1052 Williams Reserve Boulevard, Wadsworth.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021 Medina County Historical Society John Smart Open House, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., John Smart House Museum, 206 N. Elmwood, Medina. Selfguided tour with docents at stations throughout the house. Admission is $4 for senior citizens and historical society members, $5 for adults, $3 for students ages 7 to 18, free admission for children younger than 7 years old with a hand-holding adult. For more information, call 330-7221341 or e-mail mchs@zoominternet.net Medina County Historical Society McDowell-Phillips Open House, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., McDowell Phillips House, 205 S. Prospect Street, Medina. Guided tour leaves every 20 minutes. Limited to eight people per group. No reservations. Admission is $9 for senior citizens and historical society members, $10 for adults, $7 for students ages 7 to 18, free admission for children younger than 7 years old with a hand-holding adult. For more information, call 330-722-1341 or e-mail mchs@zoominternet.net ORMACO David Zuder: Songs for the Spirit of the Season; 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Free. Reservations recommended, call 419-853-6016.

Drive-Thru Holiday Lights Medina County Fairgrounds 720 W. Smith Road, Medina December 3 through 5 and 10 through 26 Fridays and Saturdays: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays and Weekdays: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Cars: $10 15-Passenger Vans: $20 Buses: $50

Monday, December 6

Put on Your Own Shoes Day 11th Holiday Whodunnit? all day through December 11, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Get guidebook, follow the clues, question the library staff, and solve who, where and with what Mr. Gin G. Bread was killed. Solve the mystery, get a prize. Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Monday Movie Matinee: “Last Christmas,” 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Meeting Rooms A and B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Co-sponsored by Soprema Senior Center. To reserve a space, call Soprema at 330-335-1513.

Tuesday, December 7

Letter Writing Day 11th Holiday Whodunnit? all day through December 11, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Get guidebook, follow the clues, question the library staff, and solve who, where and with what Mr. Gin G. Bread was killed. Solve the mystery, get a prize. Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Create! 3-D Holiday Cards, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Create holiday cards with supplies provided. Ages 12 through 17. Register at https://bit.ly/322VquD Gingerbread House, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Community Room, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina.. Build a gingerbread house with your family. Bring candy to decorate with, graham crackers and frosting provided. Register at https://bit.ly/3CjFK2q Creative Canvas, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Sycamore Rooms North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Learn how to paint a balloon animal. Register at https://bit.ly/3neLaaL Santa Night, 6 pm. to 7:30 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Santa and Mrs. Claus visit, bring your list! Crafts. Register at https://bit.ly/3kBpqnO Alphabet Adventure: G is for Gift, 6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Story, practice letter G, make crafts. Ages 2 through 6. Register at https://bit.ly/30uNPo3 The History of World War II in Cartoons, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Learn about

photo by Tejas Prajapati

the war through Akron Beacon Journal cartoonist’s cartoons with history, humor. Register at https://bit.ly/3nhp7As

Wednesday, December 8

Pretend to be a Time Traveler Day https://bit.ly/3wKbZqt 11th Holiday Whodunnit? all day through December 11, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Get guidebook, follow the clues, question the library staff, and solve who, where and with what Mr. Gin G. Bread was killed. Solve the mystery, get a prize. Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Monthly Makers: Trees, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Wadsworth. Display building. Registered households are provided outdoor space each month to set up displays according to that month’s theme. For more information and to register, go to https://bit.ly/30pFth5 Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Seasonal Discoveries, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award, naturalist will initial form at end of hike. For form and more information, go to https://bit.ly/3kATmk3 American Red Cross Blood Drive, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., Wadsworth YMCA, 623 School Drive, Wadsworth. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp Cork Pendants, 2:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Make a unique cork pendant. Grades 6 through 12. Wadsworth Historical Society: The History of the River Styx Cider Mill, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Rooms A and B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Learn history, tradition, heritage of the family-owned mill.

Thursday, December 9

Weary Willie Day https://bit.ly/3qyHYcd 11th Holiday Whodunnit? all day through December 11, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Get guidebook, follow the clues, question the library staff, and solve who, where and with what Mr. Gin G. Bread was killed. Solve the mystery, get a prize.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Monthly Makers: Trees, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Wadsworth. Display building. Registered households are provided outdoor space each month to set up displays according to that month’s theme. For more information and to register, go to https://bit.ly/30pFth5 Camp Wired: Genealogy 101, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Computer Lab, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Learn how to use Ancestry Library Edition to search census using Heritage Quest Online, complete charts and trace roots. Register at https://bit.ly/3ChdQnU Tween Thursday: Bombs Away, 4 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Make bath bombs using easy-to-follow recipe. Register at https://bit.ly/3FcSSZ6 Reindeer Games, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Crafts, activities, Buckeye High School Choir performs, Santa and Mrs. Claus visit. All ages with an adult. Register at https://bit.ly/3Fk17mn Chair Yoga, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Improve flexibility, concentration, strength. Register at https://bit.ly/3qDan0S

Friday, December 10

Official Lost and Found Day 11th Holiday Whodunnit? all day through December 11, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Get guidebook, follow the clues, question the library staff, and solve who, where and with what Mr. Gin G. Bread was killed. Solve the mystery, get a prize. American Red Cross Blood Drive, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Medina Hospital, 1000 E. Washington Street, Medina. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Student Digital Art Workshop: Advanced Procreate, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m, Hosted by Cliffside Artists Collaborative. Breakfast, lunch, and iPads will be provided. Must take Basic Procreate first. Class limited to 14 high school students. Free. For more information and a link to register, go to https://bit.ly/3CkvEhH Monthly Makers: Trees, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Wadsworth. Display building. Registered households are provided outdoor space each month to set up displays according to that month’s theme. For more information and to register, go to https://bit.ly/30pFth5 Bluegrass Jam and Dinner, 5:30 p.m. till ?, Lafayette United Methodist Church, 6201 Lafayette Road, Medina. Kitchen opens at 5:30 p.m., music starts at 7 p.m. Donation admission $3, dinner is additional donation request. Bring favorite dessert to share. Bluegrass/country bands welcome, arrive early to be scheduled.

Monthly Makers: Trees, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Wadsworth. Display building. Registered households are provided outdoor space each month to set up displays according to that month’s theme. For more information and to register, go to https://bit.ly/30pFth5 Tales and Tails, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Therapy dogs visit the children’s area to be read to. Mittler’s Flea Market, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Kitten Krazy, 930 Lafayette Road, Medina. Huge indoor space, some outside when weather permits. All proceeds benefit Kitten Krazy, a nonprofit cat adoption center. Donations accepted of anything in clean, useable condition. Winter Wonderland Celebration, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Medina Community Recreation Center, 855 Weymouth Road, Medina. Crafts, chocolate bar, cookie decorating, visit from Frosty, more. Cost is $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers. Register at https://bit.ly/3kuB0B9

Sunday, December 12

National Ding-a-Ling Day https://bit.ly/3kACU3b Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Family Portrait Day, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sycamore Rooms North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Register for free 15-minute time slot for free digital family portrait taken by library staff in winter setting. Register at https://bit.ly/3Fj8YAi Monthly Makers: Trees, noon to 5 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Wadsworth. Last day. Display building. Registered households are provided outdoor space each month to set up displays according to that month’s theme. For more information and to register, go to https://bit.ly/30pFth5 Save Ohio Strays Meet and Greet, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Petco, 1052 Williams Reserve Boulevard, Wadsworth.

Monday, December 13

Pick a Pathologist Pal Day After all, everyone needs a pal! Kids in the Kitchen Cooking Series, all day, virtual. Hosted by Medina Library. Kits available for pickup for at-home cooking series. Include number of kids in household when registering at https://bit.ly/3Hmnx85 Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK American Red Cross Blood Drive, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Brunswick United Methodist Church, 1395 Pearl Road, Brunswick. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp American Red Cross Blood Drive, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Medina Fire Station 1, 300 W. Reagan Parkway, Medina. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp Makerspace Mondays: Large-Format Printer Demo, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Watch a demonstration of how to use the equipment in the Makerspace and Digital Lab. Register at https://bit.ly/3DlGfug Saturday, December 11 Stress-Free Studying, 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Community Room, Lodi Noodle Ring Day https://bit.ly/3kACU3b Library, 635 Wooster Street, Medina. Study for exams and get different 11th Holiday Whodunnit? all day through December 11, Highland study tips and relaxation techniques each day. Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Get guidebook, follow the clues, L question the library staff, and solve who, where and with what Mr. Gin G. Tuesday, December 14 Bread was killed. Solve the mystery, get a prize. Roast Chestnuts Day Better get the open fire going! Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021 Knitting and Crocheting Circle, 10 a.m. to noon., Hickory Room, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Beginners welcome. Making Warm Up Medina County donations. Advanced Directives Workshop, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Lodi. Learn how to appoint a health-care power of attorney and create a living will. Register at https://bit.ly/31Rkrc0 Stress-Free Studying, 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Medina. Study for exams and get different study tips and relaxation techniques each day. Make a Gingerbread House, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Meeting Rooms A and B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Supplies provided. Ages 3 through 12. Register at https://bit.ly/3DgZuVT Dungeons and Dragons, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Activity Room, Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Go on a magical journey. Register at https://bit.ly/3Fw5zP5

Wednesday, December 15

Cat Herders Day https://bit.ly/3CaurK5 Adult Craft Kit: Tassel Keychains, all day, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. E-mails will be sent when kits are ready. Register for a kit at https://bit.ly/322Oy0j Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Gingerbread House Contest, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., virtual. Hosted by Seville Library. Send photo of your gingerbread house to rathbun@mcdl.info for chance to win prize. Register at https://bit.ly/3DjLfzv Introverts Unite! 2:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Buckeye Library, 625 Wolff Road, Medina. Enjoy low lighting, hot tea, light piano music with fellow introverts. Bring quiet activity such as knitting, crocheting, drawing, a book. Grades 6 through 12. Stress-Free Studying, 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Medina. Study for exams and get different study tips and relaxation techniques each day.

Thursday, December 16

Chocolate Covered Anything Day Yes!!! Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Camp Wired Party, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Community Room A, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Join the crew and celebrate the holidays with food, drinks, printable holiday handouts.. Register at https://bit.ly/3HowEFB American Red Cross Blood Drive, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., St. Ambrose Church, 929 Pearl Road, Brunswick. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp Tween Thursday: All Kinds of Trivia Contest, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Play games, create crafts, more. Ages 9 to 14. Register at https://bit.ly/3FhprVK Holiday Centerpiece Class, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., hosted by Seville Library at Seville Flower and Gift Shop, 4 E. Main Street, Seville. Create a festive centerpiece with Jane. Bring own clippers and $30 supply fee. One class per person. Register for 6 p.m. class at https://bit.ly/3qAAEwu Register for 7 p.m. class at https://bit.ly/3wN2bvG Santa Storytime, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Community Rooms A and B, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway, Medina. Santa Claus visits for a storytime. Register at https://bit.ly/3FgV4ih

R A list of art shows in Medina County. To have a show listed, send the information to joy@blakehousepublishing.com at least two months in advance. There is no such thing as too early, but there is too late.

From Plein Air Study to Studio Painting November 8 through December 5, 2021 B. Smith Gallery Third Floor, Medina Library 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina Holidays Through December 8, 2021 Cool Beans 103 W. Liberty Street, Medina The Christmas Star December 13 through 19, 2021 Brunswick Library 3649 Center Road, Brunswick Lessons in Colored Pencil December 13, 2021, through January 9, 2022 B. Smith Gallery Third Floor, Medina Library 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina Explorastory: “Bear Stays Up for Christmas,” 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Make crafts, read story, sing songs, more. Register at https://bit.ly/3oqISEN Giant 3-D Paper Snowflake, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Make a giant snowflake to take home. Register at https://bit.ly/3orUyXR Intro to Arduino: Writing and Programming Holiday Lights, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Computer Lab, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway, Medina. Learn how to create your own holiday light show. Teens welcome. Register at https://bit.ly/30lydmG Edmund Fitzgerald: What Really Happened? 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Rooms A and B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Brief history of Lake Erie shipping that led to the Fitzgerald, which sailed the like for 18 years with record-breaking loads until it sank November 10, 1975. No one has yet solved the mystery as to why. Several theories will be explored. Register at https://bit.ly/30m8xq3

Friday, December 17

Underdog Day Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Graham Cracker Gingerbread Houses Session 1, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Sycamore Rooms North and South, Brunswick Library, 3549 Center Road, Brunswick. Build a gingerbread house with your family. Crackers, frosting, decorations provided. Register for only one session. Register at https://bit.ly/3c8teIF Graham Cracker Gingerbread Houses Session 1, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Sycamore Rooms North and South, Brunswick Library, 3549 Center Road, Brunswick. Build a gingerbread house with your family. Crackers, frosting, decorations provided. Register for only one session. Register at https://bit.ly/3c9BBU3 Mini Con, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Community Rooms A and B, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway, Medina. Anime celebration, cosplay contest, gaming, button making, martial arts and Project Sushi demos, Artist’s Alley, more. Register at https://bit.ly/3Fg24fn Parent’s Night Out Pool Party, 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Medina Community Recreation Center, 855 Weymouth Road, Medina. Pizza and games for kids ages 6 to 12. Cost is $15 for members, $20 for nonmembers. Register at https://bit.ly/30pGYwh

Saturday, December 18

Camp Wired: Master Your Tablet, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Computer Lab, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Learn physical features, home screen, apps, getting e-books from the library. Register at https://bit.ly/3neLcQ1

Friday, December 24

National Eggnog Day Yum! Start the day using eggnog instead of milk to make pancakes! Libraries closed.

Saturday, December 25

Christmas and Grav Mass Day https://bit.ly/3kx8XAY Libraries closed.

Sunday, December 26 Thank You Note Day MCDL libraries closed.

Monday, December 27 No Interruptions Day MCDL libraries closed.

Answer the Phone Like Buddy the Elf Day https://bit.ly/3CfDitU Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, through December 19, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK Mittler’s Flea Market, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Kitten Krazy, 930 Lafayette Road, Medina. Huge indoor space, some outside when weather permits. All proceeds benefit Kitten Krazy, a nonprofit cat adoption center. Donations accepted of anything in clean, useable condition.

Tuesday, December 28

Sunday, December 19

Tick Tock Day https://bit.ly/3FjRTGL Time is almost out for this year! American Red Cross Blood Drive, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Comfort Suites Brunswick, 1464 Town Center Boulevard, Brunswick. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp Large Words With Friends, 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Lodi. Play word puzzle and expand vocabulary. Register at https://bit.ly/3CdWKHp Family Fort Night, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Bring blankets, sheets, clips and build reading forts. TikTok Dance Class, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. For teens. Register at https://bit.ly/3c9CRXo

National Hard Candy Day Woo, hooo! Time for ribbon candy! Self-Guided Natural Discoveries Hiking Series: Rocks and Fossils, last day, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Princess Ledges Nature Preserve, 4361 Spruce Avenue, Brunswick Hills. Learn about the geology of the area and prehistoric animals that once lived here. Follow the trail and read signs. One sign has a code word to list on Natural Discoveries form, next to the hike title. Counts toward Natural Discoveries award. Ages 7 to adult. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/36XdMfK American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Hinckley Fire Old Station, 1410 Ridge Road, Hinckley. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp Save Ohio Strays Meet and Greet, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Petco, 1052 Williams Reserve Boulevard, Wadsworth.

Card Playing Day Create a game using the holiday cards you received! Knitting and Crocheting Circle, 10 a.m. to noon., Hickory Room, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Beginners welcome. Making Warm Up Medina County donations. American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Root Candles, 640 Liberty Street, Medina. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp Otaku Tuesdays, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina Room, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. A discussion of all things anime, for Grades 6 through 12. Do geekcrafts, learn about Japanese culture, cosplay welcome! Register at https://bit.ly/3kCumZA

Wednesday, December 29

Thursday, December 30

Bacon Day and then, when you indulge too much, National Bicarbonate of Soda Day Go Caroling Day Tune up your pipes, and give it your all! Camp Wired: E-Mail, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Computer Lab, Medina American Red Cross Blood Drive, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., First Congregational Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Learn about attachments, Church, 114 Church Street, Lodi. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp folders, distribution lists and more. Learn how to organize e-mails into folders and make signature blocks. Register at https://bit.ly/3210NKS

Monday, December 20

Tuesday, December 21

Look on the Bright Side Day and National Flashlight Day How perfectly perfect! If you cannot find the bright side, use a flashlight to help! Winter Wonderland With Turtle Dance Music, 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., virtual. Hosted by Medina Library. Winter songs, movement activities, stories, giant bubbles, more. Grades pre-kindergarten through Grade 5. Link sent after registration at https://bit.ly/3DiFgee

Wednesday, December 22 National Date Nut Bread Day

Thursday, December 23

Festivus https://bit.ly/3orSAXE American Red Cross Blood Drive, 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Medina Community Recreation Center, 855 Weymouth Road, Medina. https://rdcrss.org/2ybO4Rp

Friday, December 31

Make Up Your Mind Day Start the new year with a clean slate, get the last of those decisions made! Libraries closed.

Joy of Medina County Magazine | December 2021

Celebrate! Joy of Medina County Magazine thanks and celebrates these great companies who believe in community and make it possible for readers to enjoy this magazine for free. Please thank the following companies for bringing Joy to you! Cable, Internet, Phone

Armstrong

1141 Lafayette Road, Medina Contact: Sam Pietrangelo Community Marketing Manager Phone: 330-722-3141 Website: https://armstrongonewire.com/

Dentist

Landry Family Dentistry 5076 Park Avenue West, Seville Contact: Dr. Joseph G. Landry II Phone: 330-769-4470 Website: www.LandryFamilyDentistry.com

Fireplaces, Hot Tubs, Grills

Job Services

Ohio Means Jobs 72 Public Square, First Floor, Medina 330-441-5341 Website: https://medinacountyworks.com/

Photographer

FlashBang Photography/ Videography

The Place

Phone: 440-263-4502 Website: https://www.flashbangfoto.com/

2377 Medina Road, Medina Contact: Andrea Reedy Phone: 330-239-4000 Website: https://www.yourplace4.com/

Botara Euro Spa

Furniture

Wallace Home Furnishings

Spa

620 Ridgewood Crossing Drive, Suite E, Akron Phone: 330-576-3059 Website: https://botara.com/

883 N. Court Street, Medina Contact: Richard Wallace Owner

Phone: 330-723-3006 Website: https://bit.ly/30hZFl1

Want to join these great companies in sponsoring the best publication in Medina County? Contact Amy Barnes, Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com, 330-461-0589.

photo by: Mike Enerio

Scan code for free digital subscription!

Joy of Medina County Magazine 1114 N. Court, #144, Medina, Ohio 44256 E-mail: joy@blakehousepublishing.com Website: JoyOfMedinaCountyMagazine.com Phone: 330-461-0589

Joy of Medina County Magazine December 2021

Articles inside

Mirth and Joy by Jerry King

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: Getting Reel: Craig Created Bond With Audience

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: ROLL ’EM! Nothing Defeats This Family

COMMUNITY: GEMS Shop With a Cop Fulfills Wishes

HEALTH: HEALTHY TRAILS Road Munchies

Health: Of Mind and Body Using Induced Stress to Improve Health

HOME AND GARDEN: BITE ME! Crustless Pot Pie

HOME AND GARDEN: DIG IT! Best Edible Plants for Indoor Gardening

HOME AND GARDEN: VEGAN VITTLES Vegan Mac and Cheese Sauce

HOME AND GARDEN: WATCHDOG Quick Checks Expose Scams

BUSINESS: THE NETWORKER Look of Success

BUSINESS: FROM A TECHNICAL MIND Understanding Data’s Path

THE READING NOOK The Duck Who Would Not Swim

Sentries of History