The best stories in Medina County!
HEALTHIER WHIPPED CREAM
Find out the ingredient that changes the game. by Chris Pickens
PG. 20
NEW! CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Come puzzle it out with us!
PG. 29
Brush of Color
A summer beauty reminder
PG. 30
Life’s Bountiful Bouquet
For Alan Parkhurst, life has been a series of doors answered and opportunities grabbed, with his experiences enriching him and those around him. Pg. 6
journalism
OneVoice
Real Prizes Not Computer Codes
by Amy Barnes
Perhaps I will show my age with this, but does anyone else remember when Cracker Jacks, the caramel popcorn with peanuts in those cheap cardboard boxes, had a prize? I mean a real prize?
Not these stupid computer codes that kids scan or input to then play an online game? Heck, last time I almost threw away the “prize,” not realizing that was it. Man, was I feeling let down! (And do not even get me started on the prizes in cereal boxes that are no more!)
The old prizes were great. I loved the discovery of what it was and then the challenge of assembly.
Although, I did not think much of the tiny joke books. Give me something to build and play with! Although the temporary tattoos were cool, even though they sometimes were not so temporary, causing a severe scrubbing of skin before school the next day!
Sometimes it was a little car where you had to break out the little pieces from the plastic frame, snap them together, and create your own little toy car. Snap-
together dinosaurs, small magnifying glasses, enclosed mazes with a tiny steel ball to manipulate through the trail. Many of the prizes were of the type like the toy car, remove pieces from the plastic frame and assemble.
You had to use small motor skills handling those tiny pieces, problemsolving skills when the pieces didn’t match perfectly or if you dropped and lost a piece. There was a sense of accomplishment, and the reward was getting to then play with what you had just built.
I still have a few of the prizes I got from the boxes of that sweet treat. Even as an adult, on a down day, I used to sometimes buy one of those three-packs. But after opening the first one and remembering it is only a slip of paper with a computer code, I donated the other two boxes.
It just was not the same.
A computer code does not look cool perched among the figures gathered around my computer to always remind me to never lose touch with the child inside.
VOLUME 7, NUMBER 12
JoyOfMedinaCountyMagazine.com
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
Amy Barnes
IT SUPPORT/LAYOUT
Tyler Hatfield
PHOTOGRAPHERS
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CARTOONIST
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CONTRIBUTORS
Bob Arnold D.J. Barnett
Paris Cannon
Tyler Hatfield
Curtis Hundley
Patti Moore
Shelby Moore
Mary Olson
Chris Pickens
Stephanie Polinski
Michelle Riley
Rachel Shepard MASCOT
Rico Houdini IN MEMORY OF Paul McHam
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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 2024 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.
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Contents
IN HIS HEART by Amy Barnes
17 18 19 20 21 22 6 14 16
He holds dear all friends and loved ones, here and gone, and connecting it all has been his love of flowers and what they can bring to others.
THE READING NOOK THE TRAGIC CASE OF MR. BUTTERS by D.J. Barnett
Being a lab assistant can be tough, but the duties poor Mr. Butters had to handle topped them all.
BUSINESS
FROM A TECHNICAL MIND AI IS AFFECTING HUMAN LIVES IN WIDE RANGE OF CATEGORIES by Tyler Hatfield
AI is rapidly becoming faster, smarter and more accessible.
6
THE NETWORKER TWO NETWORKS SHARING ONE SOURCE by Bob Arnold
Making strong, lifelong connections before the final chapter.
INVENTION CONVENTION
Patents recently granted to Medina County residents.
APPLAUSE!
Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities has earned a high accreditation.
DOING BUSINESS
A calendar of area networking events HOME AND GARDEN
VEGAN VITTLES AQUAFABA WHIPPED CREAM by Chris Pickens
Make healthier whipped cream with a surprising ingredient.
BITE ME! STUFFED SALMON AND POTATOES by Curtis Hundley
Stuffed salmon with a side dish of stuffed potatoes, you will be stuffed!
DIG IT! COLD SHOULDER by Michelle Riley
Take advantage on warmer days and wrap and mulch any vulnerable plants that are still exposed.
COUNTRYSIDE CRAFTS WINTER SCENE SUNCATCHERS
column and photos by Barbara Koenig Two versions to pick from or create both!
On the front and back covers: photos by Amy Barnes Alan Parkhurst in his kitchen.
photo by Amy Barnes
CRITTER CRAWL BROWN BOXING DOES NOT MEAN LUNCH
by Paris Cannon
Illegal shipping of reptiles can result in death and more restrictions.
HEALTH
PULL UP A CHAIR BECOME AN EXPLORER
by Emily Tinklepaugh
When shut in because of cold or snow, that is a great time to try something new.
COMMUNITY
WATCHDOG WEBSLINGER
by Amy Barnes
Beware companies that want to charge you large sums to list your company’s website on their registry and the FTC steps in to curb tech support scams.
OUT OF THE BOX
Guidelines on submitting letters to the editor for publication.
MUNCHING WITH JOY
Which are the cleanest restaurants? A different area of Medina County covered each month.
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
OFF THE SHELF HISTORY AND SUSPENSE ON A LAKE
ERIE ISLAND
by Mary Olson
An isolated island in a snowstorm is frightening enough but add smugglers and a woman who suddenly disappears, and the stage is set for a tense story based on history.
GETTING REEL
A DUO REVIEWS A DUO by
Patti and Shelby Moore
JOYFUL WORD SEARCH FLOWERS TO COME
Brighten your brain by finding these bright flower names.
NEW! JOYFUL CROSSWORDS WORDS FROM THE GARDEN
Can you solve our riddles and fill the squares? Answers will be in next issue.
MIRTH AND JOY
by Jerry King
Our monthly cartoon by a former Disney cartoonist
OH, SNAP! by Amy
Barnes
A breath of summer to lighten winter doldrums.
LET’S DO IT!
Resolve to enjoy activities that are this-timeof-year perfect!
JOYFUL LETTER DETECTIVES
A mother-daughter team, who love the play “Wicked,” review the movie. ?
Read the clue, collect the magnifying glass letters, and solve the puzzle!
CELEBRATE!
A clickable directory of vetted businesses who bring you Joy!
photo by Reza Mehrad
In His Heart
by Amy Barnes
Alan Parkhurst was a novelty from the beginning, and it quickly became evident that he had inherited his dad’s selling genes and his mother’s social genes.
At only 7 years old, Parkhurst was enthusiastically working for the church his family attended in Minnesota selling Christmas trees, wreaths and ropings.
Parkhurst even was dictating to the adults where the trees should go for the best display. He knew he was right.
At 10 years old, by then living in Medina, Parkhurst was given a tole painting kit. He enjoyed it so much that he started decorating a range of items and managed to convince local gift store owner Betty Trump to sell his items in her store.
Even so, who would have thought in 1971, when Parkhurst was a drummer in the Medina High School band and band president, that approximately six years later, he would be designing a float for the Rose Bowl Parade for the International Square Dancers? Or, a few years after that, invited to create floral arrangements for U.S. presidential inaugurations?
In 1984, he was a district, regional and national finalist for FTD America’s Cup floral design competition. When one of the competition’s judges was put in
The floral shop at 30 Public Square, Medina, that Alan Parkhurst ran with his mother, Sandy Parkhurst. photo provided
Alan Parkhurst at age 3 ½. Take note, that is the same facial expression he has today! photo provided
Current-day Alan Parkhurst. photo provided
charge of the floral arrangements for President Ronald Reagan’s inauguration, he remembered Parkhurst. The judge invited Parkhurst to join the design team as the selected site chairman for the Shoreham Hotel installation of Reagan’s inaugural flowers.
Years passed and Parkhurst was invited to design the inaugural floral arrangements for President George H. W. Bush.
President Bill Clinton wanted a simpler, less lavish inauguration with fewer floral arrangements, according to Parkhurst, so his services were not needed.
However, in 2001, he was part of a 139-member volunteer team that decorated for the inauguration of President George W. Bush. Humorously, even though a Republican at that time, Parkhurst had not voted for Bush.
“It’s all kind of whether or not you are willing to volunteer your time,” Parkhurst said about the inaugurations, which were organized by the Society of American Florists.
His favorite part of floral design is that it is so completely satisfying to him.
“I’ve taken some of those tests about being leftor right-brained, and they all conclude that I am half and half. So, my left brain says being a good businessperson and satisfying my client. My rightbrained part says using the power of nature to create beauty.”
He made his career choice at age 19, when his
desire to be a floral designer and run his own business was cemented through a part-time job and a paper he wrote in high school.
While still in junior high school, Parkhurst worked as a “jumper” in a floral delivery truck for Ed Crane’s Flower Town. A jumper would be paired with a driver and while the driver drove the delivery route, the jumper would be the one to grab the floral arrangement and deliver it into the hands of the eager recipient.
“I just fell in love with the whole crazy atmosphere of the flower shop,” Parkhurst said.
As part of his participation in Distributive Education, a vocational program through the high school, he wrote a term paper about opening a flower shop.
The paper was the final deciding point, Parkhurst decided he wanted to attend floral design school and open a shop. During holidays and the summer between the end of high school and the beginning of college, he would work at local flower shops to learn as much as he could.
He also independently conducted his own marketing study on Medina’s Public Square where he asked people what kind of businesses they felt were needed on the square.
During his senior year of high school (1971-1972), he worked at Stauffer’s Hardware in Sharon Center. He loved working at the store and considered opening his own, but at the time, Medina had several hardware stores and opening a hardware store was a huge
Casket spray created by Alan Parkhurst for Maryann Andrews’ funeral. photo by Alan Parkhurst
continued from Page 7 financial investment.
Parkhurst had dreams of being an actor. While in high school, Parkhurst played JJ McHabe in “Up the Down Staircase” and Jeff Douglass in “Brigadoon.”
He became a member of a community summer theater group known as Community Artist Summer Theatre. In CAST, he was Murray, the policeman, in “The Odd Couple” and Captain Corcoran in “The H.M.S. Pinafore.”
Despite greatly enjoying the exposure to acting, Parkhurst did not pursue it as a career.
“I guess I thought I would be more practical,” he said, adding, “I had a great career, though.”
Acting did teach him how to catch and hold an audience’s attention, though, which came in good use for him when he started doing presentations at floral shows.
“Yes, I was a florist, but I was interested in education and in acting,” Parkhurst said.
Parkhurst said he had a great relationship with both his mother, Martha, and father, Howard.
Martha, maiden name Sanderson, was known as Sandy. Her family owned Oneida Ltd., which was known for its tableware.
Parkhurst’s family home was built in 1848 in Oneida, New York, at 170 Kenwood Avenue. It is now a museum and inn (https://www.oneidacommunity.org/).
He highly values his extensive collection of Onedia, Ltd. tableware items and the connection it has to his family’s legacy.
Parkhurst has an older brother, Jim, who resides in Park City, Utah. His sister, Janine, is married to Jim Nogawa who is an agricultural agent conducting a grub study in Ohio.
Dad Howard worked as a salesman for the Oneida company, which translated into a lot of travel for the family as the company worked to expand its sales. Which is why Parkhurst was born in Temple, Texas, after his family was transferred there.
After having nine children, with only three surviving, Parkhurst said his parents really cherished him and his siblings. He added that since both parents had come from broken homes, they put a high value on family and togetherness.
“My parents loved having kids,” he gently said.
They also were determined that each child would get a college education.
His mother, Sandy, was a bit of a trickster with a great sense of humor, Parkhurst recalls with a smile.
He remembers one Thanksgiving in particular when his mother made a big deal about having all of the kids gather around to watch her put the turkey in the oven.
Unbeknownst to them, she had pre-cooked a Cornish game hen and hid it for just the right moment.
Just as the turkey was ready to serve, she quickly hid the turkey and put the Cornish game hen in the oven. She called the kids to come watch her get the “turkey” out of the oven. They were astounded it had shrunk so
Alan Parkhurst with his loyal sidekick, Bruce. photo by Amy Barnes
photo provided
much! She had a good laugh.
“She made everything exciting,” Parkhurst said.
Parkhurst seems to have inherited his mother’s sense of humor. In talking about how he ended up with his current loyal companion, the very small but feisty min pin/dachshund Bruce, Parkhurst says with a perfectly straight face that when he visited the rescue organization, he was looking for a German shepherd. He says, at least Bruce looks like a little German shepherd!
The family moved to Indiana when Parkhurst was 4. He said his parents hated it there and could not wait to leave.
Edina, a suburb of Minneapolis, was the family’s next stop. Parkhurst said it was funny because their high school had a hornet mascot and their colors were green and white, very similar to Medina High School, where he would eventually attend school.
In the summer of 1962, the Parkhurst family arrived in Ohio. Parkhurst grew up in a house close to the Medina Post Office at 526 E. Union Street, Medina. He said he has been in Medina ever since, except for the 12 years that he spent working in Florida.
Learning from his mother the ability to see the humor in various situations has stood Parkhurst well. Especially in 1966, when he was 12 and walking his German shepherd with the German shepherd club in Parma’s Fourth of July parade.
What happened next would have mortified anyone else, but Parkhurst found the humor.
“Right in the middle of the parade, my dog started a dump that started the other dogs dumping and we had a huge mess. Fortunately, the horses were right after us, and no one noticed the dog (poop) after the horses went by!” relates Parkhurst.
Parkhurst said that his parents always supported his interests and encouraged him to follow his dream
of opening a flower shop. So much so that his mother actually became his business partner when, at the age of 19, he opened the Flower Gallery on Medina’s Public Square on March 23, 1973.
Back then, he was not legally old enough to open a business, the requirement was a business owner had to be 21. Since he did not want to wait, his parents agreed to have the shop in their name.
With a $7,000 loan from his parents, a love of flowers and how they could be used to send a message, and in the middle of college final exams for his business administration degree at Lorain County Community College, Parkhurst opened the Flower Gallery at 102 W. Washington Street, Medina, on March 23, 1973.
Parkhurst said his mother loved working at the flower shop and she was a huge asset because she was so loved in the community. For many years, she had volunteered for numerous organizations, was on the board of the Medina UCCC, and everyone knew her.
“She was a very social person. She loved that the most and people loved her. She was charming, she was
photo provided
By the glow of his porch light, Alan Parkhurst pauses while walking Bruce to point out his pumpkin and bee display. photo by Amy Barnes
When he looks at his dog, Bruce, Parkhurst sees a mini German shepherd. Bruce is convinced he is a full-sized one. He actually is a min pin/dachshund and is about the size of a chihuahua.
10
Joy of Medina County Magazine | January 2025
continued from Page 9
funny,” said Parkhurst of his mother.
He added that neither of them got a paycheck for twoand-a-half years while the shop became established. But by the end of that time, he had been able to repay his parents’ investment in the shop.
It was lucky, Parkhurst said, that his parents let him live at home during the lean years.
Parkhurst, however, was not about to stop with only establishing a successful flower shop. After all, he still had the urge to be an educator and an actor, and those seeds were pushing to be realized.
He credits his staff and his mother with keeping the floral shop going so he could continue exploring the world of floral design.
His interests led him to taking classes at Hixson’s School of Floral Design, Dutchmaster’s International Lisse in Holland, European Masters in Austria, and Rulloda Master’s Program in Phoenix.
Parkhurst wanted to see what other designers were doing and how he could improve his skills. He was interested to see the big influx of European design that was coming into the U.S.
“It opened my world,” Parkhurst said.
American floral design is based on ovals, circles and triangles with only one “heart” to the design. European design can be many shapes and have many hearts. His acting skills came in handy when he presented more than 350 floral educational shows in the U.S. and Canada either as a designer or a commentator In 1995, the flower shop was sold because Parkhurst
felt it was time to do something different. Sandy died the following year at the age of 76, working in the flower shop up until it sold.
Parkhurst’s father, Howard, died in 2001, a week before the 9-11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center towers in New York.
“I’m grateful he didn’t have to see what happened,” Parkhurst shared.
The store was eventually moved from the square by new owners to its current location at 735 N. Court Street, Medina.
After selling the Flower Gallery, Parkhurst continued his career in floral design, working for a variety of companies.
Those positions included the national floral design manager for JoAnn Stores in Hudson, Ohio. His job was to open 75 new big box JoAnn ETC stores and supervise 130 silk floral departments.
Parkhurst was selected to design the lobby flowers for the winning quilts of the National Quilt Association in Chicago.
He was the designer for Elite Flowers in corporate market development for businesses such as Target, Kroger, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and Wegmans.
Parkhurst also worked as the senior designer for Dole Fresh Flowers in the Florida Crop Management and Bouquet Division product development in retail and wholesale. When he applied for the position, the competition was stiff, he was chosen over 70 other applicants.
The position necessitated his moving to Miami, Florida, where he created and analyzed what was being grown and what flowers would be plentiful for use in arrangements.
He stayed in Florida for 12 years, until the death on October 25, 2010, of his partner of 23 years, Floyd Mullet.
After a lengthy career that included, but was not limited to, having his work featured on numerous magazine and brochure covers, being a staff designer for a professional floral designer magazine, designing a Football Hall of Fame float, having his stories published in the books “Flowers are for Love” and “Flowers are Forever” by Kathy
Installation at the United Church of Christ, Congregational, 217 E. Liberty Street, Medina, by Alan Parkhurst. photo provided
Lamancusa, being a guest on TV shows, and serving two terms as chairman of the Society of American Florist’s Professional Floral Communicator’s International board of directors, Parkhurst retired and returned to Medina.
Parkhurst also taught floral design; was a Medina Community Band member; helped establish the original organization of small business owners that made up the square, preceding the current Main Street Medina; and has been involved in various committees and civic efforts in Medina.
Medina High School recognized his accomplishments by adding him to its Hall of Fame in 2021, but he was not officially inducted until March 11, 2023 because of issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Though retired from floral design, Parkhurst cannot completely give up his life’s work. He has a small table near the door to his home for displays he creates.
He is not interested in doing full, elaborate floral displays any more, but he does do some floral designs for old friends.
When his friend Mary Ann Andrews died, she had it in her will that if Parkhurst were still alive, she wanted only him to do the floral displays for her funeral. He, of course, complied with her final wishes.
Another friend, Earle Olson, got married at age 80 and Parkhurst created arrangements for his wedding.
The modest pumpkin display outside Parkhurst’s door for fall gave little indication of the whole Alan Parkhurst experience awaiting within nor of how quickly the senses will be filled with beauty and an overwhelming sense of peace.
Enter Parkhurst’s home and enter a world of color,
exquisite design and objects from a lifetime of adventure, some from Parkhurst’s adventures, some from his friends’ adventures, each lending its individual look and yet blending expertly with objects around it.
He retains his strong sense of community and is very proud that he has attended United Church of Christ, Congregational since 1962 and that he became a member in 1969.
When UCCC hosted the Uganda Children’s Choir, Parkhurst open his doors to two of the children and their chaperones.
Parkhurst volunteers at the church and on three different committees, one of which should be no surprise: property and grounds. He also greatly enjoys working with the Kids Connected program.
Kids Connected was started by two missionaries who wanted to have volunteers and tutors visit elementary schools to be mentors and offer support to students who need it without talking about religion or prayer, Parkhurst said.
“I’m a substitute grandparent, although at my age, I guess I am a substitute great-grandparent,” quipped Parkhurst.
Both of his parents are buried in Spring Grove Cemetery, 785 E. Washington Street, Medina, and he will be, too, Parkhurst said.
At 70 years old, he is matter of fact about his eventual death, but until that time, he is working to leave behind a legacy of kindness and is proud to have touched people’s lives with the messages his flower arrangements have delivered.
Wreath of flowers designed by Alan Parkhurst for Earle Olson’s son’s urn. photo by Alan Parkhurst
A casket spray created by Alan Parkhurst for the funeral of Mark Woods who was killed in a mountain climbing accident in 1974. Friends of the family brought flowers from their gardens to Parkhurst’s shop to be cleaned and added to the arrangement. Suspended above the flowers were two monarch butterflies that Woods and his mother found on the side of the road during their last walk together before he died. photo provided
Alan Parkhurst, with full beard and mustache, at the Dillon Wholesale Flower Show in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1994. Parkhurst was the master of ceremonies and educator/announcer. photo provided
A wreath Alan Parkhurst created for the historic McDowell-Phillips House, Medina. photo provided
We NEED Volunteers!
Do you have a LOVE for animals?
Do you have spare time?
Whispering Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary is looking for volunteers. We need some volunteers who don’t mind some heavy lifting, FARM Animals & want to help out more than one time. As volunteers we help with daily tasks & cleaning around the sanctuary. If you or someone you know would be interested PLEASE visit the website & fill out a Volunteer form. Our volunteer coordinator will reach out & schedule a orientation!
The Tragic Case of Mr. Butters
by D.J. Barnett
Trigger warning: While this is a tongue-in-cheek, humorous story, not everyone survives, and younger readers may find it distressful (or they may be the ones who laugh the loudest!).
Doctor Brown and Doctor Smeer, recently graduated with diplomas firmly in hand with the ink barely dry, headed out into the world.
Best of friends through college and graduate school, they were ready to take on the scientific world.
Although Dr. Brown had an annoying habit of constantly puffing on a cigarette, Dr. Smeer was able to overlook it in the name of friendship and science.
Being men of science, they decided, as scientists are wont to do, that they wanted to conduct an experiment.
After careful debate and lengthy discussion, over many cups of coffee and far too many bottles of beer, they came to a decision. They had come up with what would forever be known, in scientific circles and urban legend, as: “The Effects of Constipation on Land Animals of the World by Drs. Brown/Smeer.”
Being fairly intelligent but broke, with astronomical student loans to repay, they set out to procure funding for their project.
They started at the local and state level but
by
quickly moved up to the national level. After presenting their proposal before numerous committees and sub-committees, they finally received a multimillion dollar grant from the sub-committee for Frivolous Ridiculous and Unnecessary Dealings (F.R.A.U.D.) and were on their merry way.
With visions of Nobel prizes dancing in their heads, they made their preparations.
The first order of business was to find a suitable place for their laboratory. After an exhaustive search, they settled on an abandoned warehouse on the lower side of town by the docks. A little run down but the rent was cheap. They met the landlord, a shady looking character named Mr. Smith, and handed over a check for the first year’s rent and security deposit.
They quickly set about outfitting their laboratory with cages and containment areas for the animals and a room to conduct their experiment.
Safety, for them and for their test subjects, being foremost, the room had a separate area behind thick, clear plastic windows to set up audio and visual recorders and the computers needed to document the experiment, as well a place to safely observe the proceedings firsthand. The doctors, with the Scientific Method firmly in hand, and their handful of underpaid lab assistants, were ready to begin the experiment.
They set about gathering their test subjects, starting small and working up.
First, they collected mice, gerbils, rabbits, and rats. A few snakes, lizards, turtles, and frogs. Chickens, ducks, turkeys, and geese. Some cuddly cute kittens, puppies, cats, and dogs. Goats, sheep, pigs, horses, cows, and a mule. Then, for good measure, koalas, wallabies and kangaroos. Some deer, antelope, caribou and moose. Don’t forget monkeys, gorillas, giraffes, and zebras. Lions, bears and tigers. Also, hippopotamuses and rhinoceroses. And finally, an African bush elephant, the largest living land animal. Let the fun begin!
All in all, the experiment was remarkably simple. They would take an appropriately sized cork, attached to a string, and place it in the subject’s butt. After 30 days, they would remove the cork and observe and record the results for further analysis.
Things started out quite smoothly. Starting with
photo
Ross Sokolovski
the mice, they put tiny little corks in their butts, made observations and waited 30 days.
On day 31, much to the relief of the mice and the excitement of the doctors, they pulled the plugs. Results were as they expected and, after some considerable clean up, proceeded on to the next animal.
After a few months, they did notice that as the animals increased in size, the exhaust pressure increased exponentially. The lab assistants, being severely underpaid, began to balk and argue amongst themselves at having to pull the corks out.
The doctors decided that maybe the best thing to do was to train a monkey to pull out the corks.
After a time of extensive training, a monkey named Mr. Butters was ready to begin his scientific career. To make him feel like part of the team, they gave him a little white lab coat with his name embroidered on it and, for safety, a pair of goggles. He was a happy and enthusiastic little guy, excited to do his part for science.
The experiments continued.
At first, Mr. Butters did his job with great joy. But soon he, too, was a little reluctant to pull the cork, as the animals increased in size. He became sullen and withdrawn, and visibly nervous and anxious when called to duty.
The doctors thought that maybe he was suffering from PTSD. They resorted to rewarding him with bananas after each experiment was completed. They even considered bringing in a counselor to help him with his wellbeing.
After months and years, they were finally ready to conclude their experiment. The African bush elephant.
They inserted a giant-sized cork in the elephant’s butt and waited for the results. On day 31 they sent Mr. Butters in.
On trembling legs, he approached the massively expanded elephant. With tears in his eyes he took hold of the cork’s rope. With one last look at the doctors, almost pleading with them to abort the experiment, he took a firm grip and pulled.
Unfortunately, and before Dr. Smeer could stop him, Dr. Brown took that moment to light a cigarette.
Several days later, Dr. Brown awoke in the hospital. Disorientated and suffering numerous cuts, contusions and a few broken bones, he looked over to see Dr. Smeer, in the bed next to him, in similar condition.
After quietly calling Dr. Smeer’s name, Dr. Brown was overjoyed to see him finally respond.
“Oh good, you’re awake! How are you feeling?” he asked.
“I feel terrible, how about you?” Dr. Smeer replied.
“The same. Do you remember what happened?” Dr. Brown asked.
Before he could answer, the door pushed open. Walking in was a doctor, a nurse, a policeman, and a man who had a very serious look on his face.
The doctor introduced himself. “Hello, I’m Dr. Adams. I’m so glad to see you’re both awake. You gave us quite a scare. This is Detective Billings. If you don’t mind, we have a few questions for you.”
The doctors looked at each other and then back at Dr. Adams and Detective Billings.
Slowly Dr. Brown asked the question that was on both men’s minds, “What happened, how did we get here?’’
Detective Billings was the first to answer.
“There appears to have been an explosion at your laboratory. The fire department is at a loss as to the cause, but the damage was extensive. As most of your assistants were in the back holding area with the rest of the animals, the only casualties besides you and Dr. Smeer were a monkey and an elephant.”
“Oh, poor Mr. Butters,” Dr. Smeer said, fighting to hold back the tears in his eyes. “All I can remember is an image that will probably haunt me the rest of my life.”
Finally allowing himself to cry he continued, “That poor little monkey trying so desperately to put that cork back in.”
photo by Jamie Haughton
BUSINESS: FROM A
AI is Affecting Human Lives in Wide Range of Categories
by Tyler Hatfield
The world of artificial intelligence (AI) has made some incredible leaps in the past year, and it is changing our daily lives in unexpected ways.
From helping doctors diagnose diseases to creating artwork and even writing stories, AI is becoming smarter, faster and more accessible than ever before.
One of the most exciting developments has been the rise of generative AI. This is a type of AI that can create things, like writing, images or music, on its own.
For example, AI can now write poems, help plan a vacation, or even design a logo based on a simple description provided.
Many of these AI tools are easy to use and available to anyone with an internet connection, making them no longer just for experts.
In healthcare, AI is helping doctors spot problems earlier.
Imagine a doctor using AI to look at medical images, like X-rays or MRIs, to help detect diseases such as cancer and heart problems. These AI tools often can catch things that might be missed by the human eye, leading to quicker diagnoses and better treatment options.
Some companies are even using AI to help discover new medicines, speeding up what can be a prolonged process.
AI also is making a big impact on transportation.
While self-driving cars are not quite ready to hit the roads everywhere, AI is already helping make cars safer with features like automatic emergency braking (AEB) and steering assistance that help prevent accidents. AEB is estimated to reduce rear-end collisions by nearly 50 percent compared to vehicles without the feature.
Despite all of these exciting advancements, there is a need to carefully consider how AI is being used.
Concerns are growing around privacy and whether machines could replace human workers in certain jobs. To address these issues, experts are working on creating rules and guidelines to ensure AI is used in a way that is fair, transparent and beneficial for everyone, not just a select few.
Tyler Hatfield has a passion for technology and enjoys working on computers. To learn more about Hatfield, go to https://bit.ly/3Qr0LkH He can be contacted with questions and for specific recommendations at hatsmediagroup@gmail.com
Two Networks Sharing One Source
by Bob Arnold
Well, the New Year is here!
Recent discoveries, or beliefs, of environmental scientists indicate that everything in our environment is alive and has an energy that affects its actions. I will leave that there.
As I write this post, it is November, I am watching two different types of networking taking place right in front of me within one species. Networking is an energy between two or more of the same species.
There is a huge oak tree in my backyard. There are still leaves on the tree. There also are leaves lying on the ground all around the tree’s base.
The leaves in the tree are all individually connected to the tree through a stem, so they all are separated, for the most part from other leaves on the tree except for the life-giving sap that feeds them.
The previously mentioned scientists would believe there is some innate awareness and energy working within the tree that keeps this networking machine in motion. The leaves on the ground are separated from the tree and are lying on the ground, mixed in with each other. They all touch one another and will decay back into the ground to return nutrients to the tree for future leaves.
One type of networking does not depend on others to accomplish what it is doing in this world, except for the energy that feeds it from “behind the curtain” so to speak.
The other type of networking is totally dependent on others as they all go through a transition period as they exit their existence.
I draw a theory from this.
We tend to think that we can go it alone in this world and just do our thing without depending on others.
There is a much starker realization as we progress through our lives and realize that we actually do need others: ones who can help, guide, be companions, and more.
I hope you do not wait until your final chapter, like the leaves on the ground, to make friends who care for you and help you through all the multiplicities of life.
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. Learn more about Arnold at https://bit.ly/3VLzr1S Contact Arnold at TheNetworkingPencil@gmail.com
Help Abandoned Cats in Medina County through Trap, Neuter/Spay, Return
By spaying and neutering just 1 female and 1 male cat, more than 2,000 unwanted births can be prevented in just 4 years – and more than 2 million in 8 years!
Invention Convention
Patents recently granted to Medina County residents. Only county residents are included, although there may be additional people listed as patent grantees. Want to learn more about any of the patents? Put the number into the patent search at https://tinyurl.com/yyzef5sy
Patent for: Electrostatic Dispensing of an Anti-Microbial Coating Material
Number: 12,121,049
To: Terrence M. Fulkerson
City of Residence: Brunswick
Patent for: Handheld Showerhead With Push-Button Release Mechanism Number: 12,129,633
To: Viorel Berlovan Jr.
City of Residence: Medina
Patent for: Weight Number: D 1,049,270
To: Richard C. Petek
City of Residence: Medina
Patent for: Spacer Frame With Rising Locking Member Number: 12,134,931
To: William A. Briese
City of Residence: Hinckley
Patent for: Systems and Method for Integrating Driver Facing Imaging Device With a Vehicle Blind Spot Detection System Number: 12,136,346
To: Liju V. Alex
City of Residence: Medina
Patent for: Beverage Dispenser Number: D 1,049,741
To: Michael Paterson
City of Residence: Medina
Patent for: Bridge for Use With Woodworking Clamps and Method of Use Number: 12,138,821
To: Wayne Sherman
City of Residence: Hinckley
ApplAuse!
New hires, promotions, certifications earned, and announcements
Congratulations Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities for earning the highest accreditation period an organization can receive from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities!
DODD visited the MCBDD site 4691 Windfall Road, Medina, to ensure standards in 370 areas of the Ohio Administrative Code were being met.
“Receiving this level of accreditation shows the dedication of our staff to improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities,” said Superintendent Stacey Maleckar. “Our staff is highly committed to the work they do and continues to strive to provide the best service possible.”
MCBDD provides services for more than 1,500 Medina County individuals and their families.
Services provided by MCBDD include early intervention, education opportunities for children and employment and inclusive living for adults.
Has your business or an employee done something that should get applause or does your nonprofit have an announcement? E-mail the information to Joy@ BlakeHousePublishing.com and put “Applause” in the subject line. This is a free service for this magazine’s advertisers. There is a $50 charge for all nonadvertising businesses.
Business Owners and Decision Makers: You know reputation is everything and whom you hang out with matters.
Want your company to be seen with the very BEST area companies and get your message to our readers? Call 330-461-0589
photo by Pavel Neznanov
Doing Business
Local business networking events, not category restricted
Greater Medina Chamber of Commerce
Chamber membership requirement after two events.
Tuesday, January 21
Monthly Member and Safety Council Joint Meeting: The Accomplished Life, the Art and Science of Getting More
Done, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 777 E. Union Street, Medina. Speaker: Kirby Hasseman. $18 members. Register at https://tinyurl.com/443zaz9b
Northern Medina County Chamber Alliance
Chamber membership requirement after two events. No information available by press time.
Wadsworth Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber membership requirement after two events. Monday, January 13
Women in Leadership Luncheon, noon to 1 p.m., Cambria’s Bistro, 132 Main Street, Wadsworth. $15 per person, includes lunch. For more information and to register, go to
Wednesday, January 29
January luncheon: Nonprofit Fair, 11:30 a.m to 1 p.m., The Galaxy Restaurant Banquet Center, 201 Park Centre Drive, Wadsworth. $20 per person. For more information and to register, go to https://tinyurl.com/ytc8t4kj
Seville Area Chamber of Commerce
No information available by press time.
photo by Daniel Fazio
HOME AND GARDEN: VEGAN VITTLES
Aquafaba Whipped Cream
by Chris Pickens
Chickpeas, also called garbanzo beans or even ceci beans, are a very versatile, international bean. They are commonly consumed in the Mediterranean, Middle East and India. They can be used as a main dish, snack or side dish and even have been used to make flour for pancakes.
Growing up, our family never wasted food. After all these years, I have taken on this mindset, too. That is where this little tidbit comes in. Not a lot of people are familiar with the liquid that is found in canned garbanzo beans. It is called aquafaba and can be used in many dishes. This can include stews, soups and curries. In recipes that call for eggs, some people even make the switch. When I learned that whipped cream could be made from the aquafaba, I had to make it to see for myself.
• 3/4 cup aquafaba
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup vegan powdered sugar
Pour aquafaba into a medium mixing bowl. Using a mixer, beat the liquid until it starts to get foamy. Add lemon juice and continue to mix for five minutes on high until it becomes very fluffy and forms stiff peaks. Add vanilla and continue to beat for another minute. (It will turn light brown for a minute, but then turn white again as it beats in). Slowly add powdered sugar while continuing to mix on high until all vanilla and sugar are mixed in and the mixture is very fluffy. Mix for nine to10 minutes for whipped cream that will hold its fluffiness the longest. Enjoy, and let me know how it is! Any pictures are appreciated, too.
Chris Pickens, a vegan since 2016, is a certified holistic nutrition coach, a health and wellness coach, a holistic health practitioner, and a holistic health coach. To learn more about Pickens, go to https://bit.ly/3FqhEId Email her at momof4chris@gmail.com, with “The Joy of Medina Attn: Chris” in the subject line.
HOME AND GARDEN: BITE ME!
Stuffed Salmon and Potatoes
by Curtis Hundley
Here is a recipe for stuffed salmon, with a creamy broccoli and cheese filling.
• 4 8-inch salmon fillets
• Fresh broccoli florets
• 1/2 brick cream cheese, room temperature
• Butter
• Lemon, sliced thinly
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Make a lengthwise-incision in each salmon fillet. Cook the broccoli and drain. Combine cooked broccoli with cream cheese, then stuff each salmon fillet. Top fillets with butter and lemon slices. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
Looking for a side dish? Try stuffed potatoes.
• 4 baking potatoes
• Olive oil
• Chicken or turkey, cooked, shredded
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 twigs of chives, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
Wash and dry four baking potatoes, pierce skins with a fork, then coat with olive oil, and bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes. After cooling, cut in half lengthwise, scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Mix the flesh with shredded, cooked chicken or turkey. Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, chives, garlic cloves, salt, and pepper. Mix it well. Place the mix into the potato skins and top with remaining cheese. Place the potato skins in oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, then remove from oven. Now you have your side dish!
Note: Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, and add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Curtis Hundley cooks more by sense than measurement, and he greatly enjoys cooking for his family and fiancé. He has promised his fiance’ that he will have dinner ready for her every day after work once they get married. She is really looking forward to that!
HOME AND GARDEN: DIG
Cold Shoulder
by Michelle Riley
Winter is upon us and the predictions are calling for a very cold, very snowy winter.
It is always better to be prepared rather than get caught with your plants suffering out in the snow.
A few simple ways to prepare can be as easy as adding mulch to your landscape beds around the precious root system of vulnerable plants. This will help to keep the roots warm amid freezing temperatures.
If there are trees available, leaf clean up can prove to hold a double duty.
My grandparents used to take all the leaves that they raked from the yard and bury their rose garden in them. They would mound the leaves on top of the roses, but not before my grandfather would trim the roses back to 8- to10-inch stems.
Those mounds would reach my eyeballs in height.
However, I was little, so I am guessing the leaf mound was about 3-feet tall. The mound would compress over the winter, with the repeated freeze and thaws, though I will always remember my grandfather digging his precious roses out in the spring and every stem was lush and green, ready for new growth.
On the flip side of the plant, burlap can be used to wrap snuggly around the plant to protect it from sweeping winds
and wind burn.
Frost covers and horticultural fleece are great products for covering larger areas of susceptible plants, they need to be pinned down with landscape staples, boulders or something heavy to prevent the wind from entering or blowing the cover away. They can also be used to create frost tents by wrapping them around bamboo or stakes for protecting small, tender trees or shrubs.
A cold frame can be purchased as a kit or built from scratch by using old doors, windows and other discarded items.
During heavy snowfall, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on shrubs and trees and clear snow from them as needed to prevent limbs cracking, breaking and deforming the plant under the weight.
Knowing what to do is half of the battle.
Michelle Riley is a local horticulturist, landscape designer, and consultant. She is the founder of the gardening subscription service, the Plant Shorts Posse; https:// michellerileyhorticulturist.com ; and https://neohiogarden. com . She also is the president of All About You Signature Landscape Design, Inc. Learn more about Riley at https://bit.ly/3BavKLk Riley can be contacted at Info@ MichelleRileyHorticulturist.com or by calling 234-678-8266
Winter Scene Suncatcher,
Two Versions
column and photos by Barbara Koenig
Skill level: Beginner
Skills: decoupage, reverse glass painting, planning, miniatures/dioramas, decision making, ratios, cutting Adult supervision: Limited
Supplies needed:
• Clear plastic plate or clear plastic container lid
• Satin white acrylic paint
• Hologram glitter finish acrylic paint
• Hologram glitter finish acrylic paint
• 1” sponge
• Chisel paint brush
• White iridescent glitter
• Cotton balls
• Clear school glue
• 1 disposable cup
• Paper plates
• Dry plant material (foxtails and dry weeds were used) 2 inches to 6 inches
• Tin foil
• Miniature figures
• Colored tissue paper or paper coffee filters moistened with water then colored with watercolors and dried
This project will work first on the back side of a clear plastic plate or a clear plastic container lid that bakery goods are often sold in. This technique is called Reverse Glass Painting. We will also be decoupaging the back to create the suncatcher effect.
Have fun decorating the front with personal touches like more glitter, more bushes, or a personal favorite small figurine. I added a few flakes of larger transparent glitter to
the back while decoupage was still wet. I also included a picture that paint is applied to the backside of the plate after the holographic paint instead of the tissue.
Completely paint the back of the clear plate with a sponge using the hologram glitter paint. While that is drying, cut tissue paper into half inch strips. Then cut these into smaller pieces for glueing later.
When hologram paint is completely dry, paint white clouds as seen in picture. Be sure to leave lots of room for the decoupage to shine through. Let dry overnight.
The next step is to prepare the plant materials to look like trees and bushes.
Lightly crumple a sheet of tin foil to use as a prop to dry the plant material. Put some glue for dipping plant material on a paper plate. In another plate pour glitter. Roll the edges of plant materials in glue then glitter. Prop on tin foil to dry. If any sticks, it is easily cut away and not noticeable. Let dry.
Mix two parts clear glue to one part water in disposable cup. Brush a thin layer onto the center back of the plate. Place pieces of tissue paper over wet decoupage glue overlapping edges. Each time work wet on wet. Apply decoupage glue and cover with tissue then a thin layer of decoupage glue. Cover the back with tissue and then cover with an additional thin layer of decoupage glue. Let dry overnight.
Now turn over and work on the front. Using cotton balls stretch and fill the bottom of the container to make drifts and valleys. When you are satisfied with the look, glue in place. Place trees and bushes and decide the best placement. When you decide the best arrangement dip stem ends in glue and, if necessary, a dot of glue on back to hold in place. Place miniature in center. Add glitter to cotton as desired to imitate snow.
Barbara Koenig is a retired rancher in Oklahoma, hobbyist and crafter who enjoys turning everything she can into an educational moment.
Painted version
HOME AND GARDEN: CRITTER CRAWL
Brown Boxing Does Not Mean Lunch
by Paris Cannon
A very large problem in the reptile hobby is the illegal importation of certain species, also known as “brown boxing.”
Brown boxing is when a package is either shipped across state lines or shipped into the country with no indication that live animals are in the package.
This is a huge issue for many reasons.
First and foremost, it is extremely illegal. Anyone caught sending or receiving a brown-boxed package, can end up with jail time and massive fines.
Secondly, it puts the animals in the package at extreme risk. Having the boxes unlabeled often leads to them being handled a bit rougher, as well as them not being kept in temperature-controlled areas which can lead to overheating, freezing and death to many species.
Brown-boxed species often are brown-boxed due to being highly illegal as well, meaning that the animal would not be able to receive any vet care if it got sick due to it being confiscated, and often euthanized, if found.
This means that if the animal has any health issues, it is essentially a death sentence.
Thirdly, brown-boxing causes a huge stigma around reptile keeping. Often when brown boxers are busted, they make the news, making people view the hobby in an even more negative light than it already is. It also typically ends up putting further restrictions on the hobby due to people not following the rules.
One of the rules that was put in place was the recent revising of the Lacey Act, which requires the scientific and common name of any species being shipped to be in plain sight on the package. This revision almost ended up making it essentially illegal to ship animals across state lines due to the strict wording originally used in the act, however, reptile hobbyists spoke out against it and it was revised again before it was passed. All in all, brown boxing seriously harms the hobby and should be stopped.
Paris Cannon lives with her husband in Brunswick and has raised a wide variety of critters from spiders to rats. She welcomes questions and column suggestions, which can be sent to Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com with “Critter Crawl” in the subject line. Cannon also can supply information on where to obtain pets mentioned in her column. M
HEALTH: PULL UP A CHAIR
Become an Explorer
by Emily Tinklepaugh
It is not uncommon to feel let down after the rush of the holidays, which brought with them the big, constant push for socialization, and then the sudden switch to winter isolation.
Whether you were an active participant or a bystander, the winter isolation can be hard.
With snowstorms and extreme cold, it makes it extra challenging to feel connected to friends and loved ones or to pursue your usual interests.
After having several breaks from routine because of the holidays, it is hard to see anything but same-old-same-old in the months ahead.
Instead of sinking into the sofa cushions, why not use this time to pick up a new hobby? Or get that piece of home exercise equipment you have been wanting?
It does not matter if it is something you will do or use for only a short time, it is all about making the effort and pushing your envelope, exploring different possibilities.
Maybe that new hobby will result in a new side business or in making things to donate to those in need.
Look for People Helping People type groups on social media and see what is being sought. Perhaps it will inspire you to clean out that spare room or those boxes in the attic and set it out for porch pickups.
Write an old-fashioned paper-and-pen letter and mail it, you can even buy stamps online and have them delivered to your home. Not sure how to start? Go to https://www. usps.com/ship/letters.htm for tips, instructions and to order stamps.
When cabin fever starts to get the best of you, explore the calendar of events at the back of this magazine and see how many events or classes you can find that pique your interest. Most of them are free.
Perhaps some of these will stick and become habits, perhaps they will not. But it can help fight those winter blahs and increase your self-care efforts.
If the winter doldrums really start to drag you down, despite your best efforts, please reach out to friends or family or check out the Help page at https:// joyofmedinacountymagazine.com/community-help/ where you can find groups that need your help as well as those offering help.
Have fun becoming a winter explorer and enjoy this noyard-work-no-guilt time of year!
All advice offered is solely at readers’ discretion whether to follow it. We urge seeking professional help if needed. Additional help can be found at https://tinyurl.com/ ysrbph4n or call 211. Emily Tinklepaugh is a local writer and a long-time observer and student of human nature and relationships. While not a licensed therapist, Tinklepaugh has successfully guided and advised many over several decades. Ask a relationship question or share a moment by emailing Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com with Dear Emily in the subject line, or mail to Dear Emily, Joy of Medina County Magazine, 1114 N. Court, #144, Medina, Oh. 44256. All correspondence will be kept confidential and printed with pseudonyms.
COMMUNITY: WATCHDOG Webslinger
by Amy Barnes
If you own a website, you are likely to get mailings from such companies as Domain Listings, based in Las Vegas.
These companies try to convince you to pay them a fee to list your company’s .com on their internet directory for the low, low cost of $288.
Their solicitation is set up to look like an invoice for renewing your domain. But it is not connected to renewing your domain, it only means your .com gets included on their website, similar to Yelp or Google.
Always be sure to take the time to read before sending money so you understand exactly what you are buying with your company’s hard-earned money. If in doubt, contact your website host, send them a copy of the letter, and ask if they are legit or connected to your website host.
Domain Listings? Well, in the last three years they have had 252 complaints filed against them with the Better Business Bureau. Here is the link to the BBB page so you can see for yourself: https://tinyurl.com/ycxjcas4 They also are called a “scam” and “spam” over and over again on the internet.
In related news, the Federal Trade Commission has approved amendments to its Telemarketing Sales Rule that oversees inbound telemarketing calls.
The TSR may be better known for being the ruling that established the Do Not Call Registry, which now includes pre-recorded telemarketing calls and dept collection services.
Amendments to TSR are designed to protect people from incoming calls or from outgoing calls in response to advertisements or direct mail solicitations for tech support.
The FTC reported to Congress that people aged 60 years old and older were five times more likely to fall victim to tech support scams.
These scams try to get people to pay for support services they do not need or fix a problem that does not actually exist. Scammers also will ask permission to “enter” the victim’s computer in order to better facilitate fake repairs and thus gain access to data stored on the computer. They can even leave behind a “back door” so they can re-enter the victim’s computer later.
Payment to the scammers is usually requested through the use of gift cards, cryptocurrency or money transfer.
Scams, fraud and bad business practices can be reported at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
COMMUNITY:
OUT OF THE BOX
Letters to the Editor
OUT OF THE BOX LETTER GUIDELINES
1. No politics, no religion.
2. Nothing that is spiteful or just plain mean.
3. Letters will run as submitted, writer is responsible for spell checking, editing and grammar.
4. Letters may be edited for length. Suggested maximum length is 150 to 200 words. Chose them wisely. Keep in mind this is a family magazine and watch those word choices.
5. There is no guarantee of publication, but we will do our best to get all in that follow the guidelines.
6. Letter writers will be verified by phone, usually between 6 and 9 in the evening except for Sundays. If we cannot verify, the letter will not run.
7. All letters must include the name of the author and city of residence (and state, if it is outside of Ohio), all of which will be published. You do not have to live in Medina County to submit a letter.
8. Include a phone number we can call for verification. Letters can be emailed to: Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com with “Letters to the Editor” in the subject line.
Or mailed to:
Letters to the Editor
Joy of Medina County Magazine 1114 N. Court, #144 Medina, Ohio 44256
COMMUNITY:
Munching With Joy
Congratulations to these restaurants!
Each month the focus will be on a different area of Medina County’s sit-down eating facilities.
Only those restaurants that pass the Medina County Health Department’s inspection with a perfect score of 0 critical and 0 non-critical issues will be included.
Food trucks and those with no inspections will not be included.
Keep in mind that an inspection is only a snapshot in time, so a restaurant not listed this month may make the list the next time. Inspections are based only on what the inspector observes at the time of inspection. Information for this list is taken from public records.
Time to chow!
Wadsworth, West Salem, Westfield Center
ENTERTAINMENT: OFF THE SHELF
History and Suspense on a Lake Erie Island
by Mary Olson
Book: “Trouble Island”
Author: Sharon Short Rating (out of 5 possible):
Sharon Short is an Ohio author who writes historical mysteries and suspense based on real people and events in the buckeye state.
As Jess Montgomery, Short wrote the Kinship series of mysteries set in rural Vinton County, featuring a main character based on Ohio’s first female sheriff.
The novel is based on the author’s family’s experiences during Prohibition in the 1930s.
In the middle of Lake Erie, between Ohio and Canada, lies Trouble Island. This small, isolated island is a stopping point for smugglers and is the setting for this closed-room mystery.
Trouble Island is home to two women who both have connections to the gangsters that use the island as a stopping point or hideaway for their smuggling activities.
Rosita is the lady of the mansion, married to the notorious Eddie McGee, who has made a name for himself doing vicious deeds. Rosita is deep in mourning after her young son was killed in crossfire.
Aurelia is Rosita’s maid, but this identity is just a cover for a scared woman who is on the run for committing murder. What began as an act of friendship, when Rosita offered to take Aurelia in, is now a tense situation that Aurelia longs to escape.
With a snowstorm approaching on the lake, McGee and his cronies arrive on Trouble Island just as Aurelia is planning her secret departure. She is a skilled open water swimmer and has made a plan to leave the island for good.
With McGee’s arrival, the mood goes from bad to worse. Threats, intimidation and secrets, combined with too much liquor, create a volatile situation in the house.
Rosita soon vanishes, leaving Aurelia questioning if she can ever escape.
The setting of Trouble Island is lonely and remote, adding to the atmosphere of this haunting novel.
A unique look at Prohibition culture and a little-known place, Trouble Island is easy to recommend to anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
“Trouble Island” will be discussed at Short’s appearance at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Register to attend at https:// tinyurl.com/24fdx8s7.
Rescue Me Pawsome Style, Inc.
Knowledge regarding animal rights has become more prevalent throughout the world and while this does aid in the protection of animals, many people are still unaware of the struggles that animals are facing. Starvation, disease, abuse, overpopulation in shelters, and lack of general resources are only a few of the battles that animals encounter.
The mission of Rescue Me Pawsome Style, Inc. is to bridge this gap and to shine a light on the plight of unwanted and abandoned dogs by providing them with stable and loving homes. We are interwoven with our rescue partners, transporters, and veterinarians. We educate and are forever grateful for the compassion and care of our many fosters and adopters.
Please help us to continue our work: Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/forthepups
Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/rmpsdogs
Cashapp: @ RMPSrescue
Mailing Address: R.M.P.S
3454 Forest Lake Drive Medina, OH 44256
Mary Olson is the readers’ advisory librarian at the Medina County District Library. To learn more about her, go to https://bit.ly/3gZ1mg1
MOVIE TIME BOX
How long is the movie?
93 minutes = 1 hour, 33 minutes
102 minutes = 1 hour, 42 minutes
106 minutes = 1 hour, 46 minutes
111 minutes = 1 hour, 51 minutes
126 minutes = 2 hours, 6 minutes
135 minutes = 2 hours, 9 minutes
161 minutes = 2 hours, 41 minutes
189 minutes = 3 hours, 9 minutes
“
“I started off the day thinking about calling off work, and I haven’t arrived (brainwise) yet!”
“I’m going to let you believe that, but you are wrong.”
“
ENTERTAINMENT: GETTING REAL
A Duo Reviews a Duo
by Patti and Shelby Moore
Book: “Wicked”
Seen: movie theater
Rating (out of 5 possible):
Patti:
Shelby:
For the most part, we usually agree on what we like and do not like when it comes to Broadway shows.
Even though we both love the play “Wicked,” we do not agree on the movie.
Patti: The scenery and colors are beautiful, and the cast of characters is very well chosen. The singing, songs, and dance numbers are entertaining and very well done.
The disconnect begins with Glinda, the good witch. She is much funnier, and more likable and unlikeable in the play. I do not believe it is Arianna Grande’s performance, I think that that part of Glinda’s personality just doesn’t transfer from the play to the film.
I also do not like that the play has been split into two films. The current film ends with a spectacular version of “Defying Gravity” but then it will be a year of waiting for part two.
The movie was long, drawn out and slow at some parts. If they had kept the movie moving, they could fit the whole play in one movie.
Shelby: My mom is right in saying that we normally agree when it comes to Broadway shows. “Wicked” has always been in my favorite top three plays.
The opening line of the play being, “Good news, she’s dead!” had me seated and completely enraptured the first time I saw the show.
“Wicked,” the movie, captured the same feeling and same vibe of Oz as the play and even expanded on it.
The play has gorgeous sets, but the movie was able to build a world that the stage just cannot achieve. Seeing Shiz University, the Emerald City and the Ozdust Ballroom on the big screen was stunning.
While my mom did not feel that Glinda transferred well to the film, I disagree.
I thought Ariana Grande’s version of Glinda was funny while still carrying that essence of Glinda that we get in the play.
A little uppity, spoiled, but an undoubtedly likeable character, Grande brings an enjoyable fresh take to Glinda.
Her voice was stunning, especially in the song “No One Mourns the Wicked,” to the point I had goosebumps and could not look away.
Cynthia Erivo, meanwhile, plays Elphaba beautifully. My only critique of her performance is that sometimes her facial expressions bordered on cartoonish, but her voice more than made up for it.
Her rendition of “The Wizard and I” and, of course, “Defying Gravity,” are enough to move you to tears.
“Defying Gravity” is one of, if not, THE best Broadway songs. Emotional, raw, and the perfect way to end the first half of the play.
While I am bummed that the story is split in half, ending the movie on that incredible song and the strong, emotional performances was the best way they could execute it.
The core of the story is the relationship and eventual friendship between Glinda and Elphaba, and part one executed that wonderfully.
Patti and Shelby Moore are a mother and daughter team who reside in Brunswick. They love almost everything Broadway. The Broadway play “Wicked” is one of their favorite shows.
photo by Christian Wiediger
FLOWERS TO COME
MIRTH AND JOY by
Jerry King
“Sorry, Mrs. Hollymore, but I wasn’t able to complete my science project. Plutonium is harder to get than I thought.”
Printable versions of the Joyful Word Search (https:// tinyurl.com/4bvcrpa6) and Joyful Crossword (https:// tinyurl.com/ycymdkra) are available on the Joy of Medina County Magazine website.
Joyful Word Search December 2024
LIGHTING UP THE NIGHT
Answer Key for Last Month’s Search LIGHTING UP THE NIGHT
Oh, Snap!
As we get into the deep of winter, we thought you might enjoy a breath of summer with these pictures from the local gardens of the historic Col. H.G. Blake House in Medina. The house is on the National Register of Historic Places for having been part of the Underground Railroad. photos by Amy Barnes
Let's do it! January 2025 Event Calendar
Submitting Calendar Events
Listings in calendar must be events hosted by or benefiting a Medina County nonprofit organization or hosted/ sponsored by a magazine advertiser. Send submissions to Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com and put CALENDAR in the subject line. Information is not accepted by phone. The calendar is also available online at JoyOfMedinaCounty. com on the Community Calendar tab at the top of the page or on the drop-down menu on mobile devices.
Wednesday, January 1
Polar Bear Plunge Day https://tinyurl.com/yd32vx6e
Yule Lads, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Self-guided outdoor scavenger hunt. Trails open 6 a.m. to one hour past sunset. Information at https://tinyurl.com/k23tj9ps
Thursday, January 2
Motivation and Inspiration Day https://tinyurl.com/27askujb
Yule Lads, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Self-guided outdoor scavenger hunt. Trails open 6 a.m. to one hour past sunset. Information at https://tinyurl.com/k23tj9ps
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saint Ambrose Church, 929 Pearl Road, Brunswick. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
Family Game Night, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Come enjoy board games new and old! Information at http://tinyurl.com/bdhuy4dm
Writing Workshop, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Local author Seth Borgen helps with creative writing. Bring your material and jump into discussions. Register: https://tinyurl.com/ybwrwmc4
Google Calendar and Keep, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Hands on workshop. Register: https:// tinyurl.com/mup725hf
Friday, January 3
Women Rock! Day https://tinyurl.com/4dj98y2a
Dungeons and Dragons, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Create a character and join a campaign. Grades Six through 12. Register: https://tinyurl.com/ys6wh29a
Yule Lads, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Self-guided outdoor scavenger hunt. Trails open 6 a.m. to one hour past sunset. Information at https://tinyurl.com/k23tj9ps
Saturday, January 4
Trivia Day http://tinyurl.com/vmxc5p3m
VolunTEENS, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Help to prepare crafts for upcoming library programs. Information: https://tinyurl.com/rw4xmfv6
Marshmallow and Pretzel Structures, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Hands on engineering to eat. Grades five through 12. Register: https://tinyurl.com/mt4er6zf
Yule Lads, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Self-guided outdoor scavenger hunt. Trails open 6 a.m. to one hour past sunset. Information at https://tinyurl.com/k23tj9ps
Healthy Dose of Nature: Hiking Series, 10 a.m. to noon. Killbuck Lakes, 7996 White Road, Burbank. Three to five mile vigorous hike. https://tinyurl. com/3e8k5xtw
Sunday, January 5
National Bird Day https://tinyurl.com/34br2322
Yule Lads, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Self-guided outdoor scavenger hunt. Trails open 6 a.m. to one hour past sunset. Information at https://tinyurl.com/k23tj9ps
Monday, January 6
Cuddle Up Day http://tinyurl.com/4nryyt5e
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Medina Fire Station 1, 300 W Reagan Parkway, Medina. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
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Joy of Medina County Magazine | January 2025
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Trinity United Church of Christ, 215 High Street, Wadsworth. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
Art in the Afternoon: Polar Bear Under Northern Lights, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Information: https://tinyurl.com/bdbby8mz
Beginners Sign Language, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Introduction into American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Ages ten and up. Register: https://tinyurl.com/5t44kbur
Intermediate Sign Language, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Intermediate lesson on American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Ages ten and up. Register: https://tinyurl.com/4pp5775c
Tuesday, January 7
National Bobblehead Day http://tinyurl.com/33rbd33d
Wednesday, January 8
Argyle Day http://tinyurl.com/43t8tf5y
Indoor Outdoor Games, 2:15 p.m. to 3 p.m., Buckeye Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Information: https://tinyurl. com/35k7xtpk
American Red Cross Blood Drive, noon to 5 p.m., Wadsworth YMCA, 623 School Drive, Wadsworth. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
Harry Potter Club: Magical Memories and Dreams, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Compare your dreams to Harry Potter characters and create a dream journal. Ages 9 to 14. Register: https://tinyurl.com/ynkyppax
OSU: Pesticide and Fertilizer License Recertification, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m, OSU Extension Office, 4046 Medina Road, Medina. Licenses expiring March 2025 need three hours of credits completed to renew. Register: https:// tinyurl.com/3tcm4hf2
Novel Ideas: Peace Like a River, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Meet with other book nerds for discussions and reading. Register: https://tinyurl.com/2zxr4rdp
Thursday, January 9
Balloon Ascension Day http://tinyurl.com/msa2ax7z
Tween Thursday: Library Architect, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Create a library diorama. Ages 9 to 14. Register: https://tinyurl.com/4m4m76jh
Friday, January 10
Houseplant Appreciation Day http://tinyurl.com/yk6fnw88
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Medina United Methodist Church, 4747 Foote Road, Medina. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn Bluegrass, 5:30 p.m. kitchen opens, music starts at 7 p.m., Lafayette United Methodist Church, 6201 Lafayette Road, Medina. Local bluegrass bands jam in practice rooms and play on stage. Charge for dinner, desserts are by donation. Admission is $5 at the door. Second Friday of each month. Information at https://tinyurl.com/2ffy2unv
Saturday, January 11
Learn Your Name in Morse Code Day http://tinyurl.com/p4wfwwmh Winter Bird Walk, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Bundle up for a hike to observe winter birds. https:// tinyurl.com/h3ccz7wa Tales and Tails, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Therapy dogs visit to help children with reading out loud. Information: https://tinyurl.com/4z2fhc8e S’mores Pops, 11 a.m. to noon, Lodi Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Lodi. Learn to make pops. Grades four through 12. Register: https://tinyurl.com/2kua3ynj
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saint Mark Church, 1330 N Carpenter Street, Brunswick. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
For the Birds, noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Drop in to learn what birds do throughout winter, make a craft. Information: https://tinyurl.com/yr62vvs5 Broad Street Independent Writers, 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Meeting
Room B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Connect with a network and sounding board of fellow people of the pen. Information https:// tinyurl.com/4tzzttxh
Sunday, January 12
Quitter’s Day http://tinyurl.com/yn8f25vn
ORMACO: Bill Lestock; Mandolin, 2 p.m to 3 p.m., Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Lestrock performs original mandolin music. Seating first come, first served. Information: https://tinyurl.com/9v283t4j For the Birds, noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Drop in to learn what birds do throughout winter, make a craft. Information: https://tinyurl.com/yr62vvs5
Monday, January 13
National Rubber Ducky Day http://tinyurl.com/3kutubne
Monday Movie Matinee: the Fall Guy, 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Meeting Room A and B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Reservation: call Soprema Senior Center (330)335-1513.
American Red Cross Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m., Brunswick United Methodist Church, 1395 Pearl Road, Brunswick. https://tinyurl. com/2v8p3dyn
Beginners Sign Language, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Introduction into American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Ages ten and up. Register: https://tinyurl.com/bdh47ch5
Intermediate Sign Language, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Intermediate lesson on American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Ages ten and up. Register: https://tinyurl.com/yw8dk7ar
Monday Night Intrigue: College Girl Missing , 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Register: https://tinyurl.com/aja6rkbp
Tuesday, January 14
International Kite Day http://tinyurl.com/4fh4vk3d Explorastory: Poles Apart , 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Join for books, songs, and rhymes as well as crafts. Register: https://tinyurl.com/4c6v5ct2
Wednesday, January 15
National Hat Day http://tinyurl.com/ypwmxp4b
Natural Discoveries, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Buckeye Woods Park Shelter, 6335 Wedgewood Road, Medina. Easy walks throughout the year to observe nature. Ages seven to adult. https://tinyurl.com/4v27s297
Birds and Beverages, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center Library, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Enjoy a warm drink in the bird viewing area. Register:https://tinyurl.com/4hs49uxv Popcorn Bar, 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., Buckeye Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Create trail mix. https://tinyurl. com/7fwnc9rt
Pajama Story Time, 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Put on pajamas and listen to a story. Information:https://tinyurl.com/2njxuc7s
Gray Wolves of the Continental US, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Todd Cartner presents history and reintroduction of grey wolves. Information: https:// tinyurl.com/3cdxcw62
Thursday, January 16
National Nothing Day http://tinyurl.com/4f4z5rcx
Healthy Dose of Nature: Hiking Series, 10 a.m. to noon. Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Three to five mile vigorous hike. https://tinyurl.com/y4tu6kst
Tween Thursday: Evolution of Flight, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Explore history of human flight. https://tinyurl.com/n46y5xrj
Friday, January 17
Museum Selfie Day http://tinyurl.com/mr269ywu
Dungeons and Dragons, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Create a character and join a campaign. Grades Six through 12. Register: https://tinyurl.com/y8wdyjt6
Saturday, January 18
National Thesaurus Day https://tinyurl.com/yrf86vua
Book Buddies, 11 a.m. to noon, Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Drop in 20 minute reading sessions with teens. Ages 5 to 10. Information at https://tinyurl.com/mrtexv25 Soup-er Series: Ice Fishing, noon to 2 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, Classroom and Lab, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Class teaching techniques taught by experienced ice fishers for northern Ohio, no actual ice fishing. Soup available while supplies last. https://tinyurl.com/26hs4msh
T-Shirt Embroidery, 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Grades six through twelve. Register: https://tinyurl.com/4ddp72nd
Get Ready to Garden, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Come prepared with questions and Learn how to plan a garden. Information: https://tinyurl.com/55as53pm
For the Birds, noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Drop in to learn what birds do throughout winter, make a craft. Information: https://tinyurl.com/yr62vvs5
Friends of Medina County Dog Shelter: Dine to Donate at Corkscrew Saloon, 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., 27 North State Road, Medina. Fundraiser with many ways to participate. Information: https://tinyurl.com/4rwws66s
Sunday, January 19
Good Memory Day http://tinyurl.com/mu4uhwnv
Winter Sowing Workshop, 2 p.m to 4 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Learn outdoor sowing techniques, create a mini greenhouse. Bring a clean milk jug. https://tinyurl.com/4en872bv For the Birds, noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Drop in to learn what birds do throughout winter, make a craft. Information: https://tinyurl.com/yr62vvs5
Monday, January 20
National Penguin Day http://tinyurl.com/yu9phhmc
Coffee and Canvas, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Paint and sip event. Register: https://tinyurl.com/ycya2j75
American Red Cross Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m., Northside Christian Church, 7615 Ridge Road, Wadsworth. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
Tuesday, January 21
National Hugging Day http://tinyurl.com/2kru5nbt
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., The Chapel Wadsworth Campus, 1391 State Road, Wadsworth. https://tinyurl. com/2v8p3dyn
Mug Rugs, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Medina 1907 Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Create a yarn cocoa coaster. Grades six through 12. Register: https://tinyurl.com/3pkh4pvv
Wednesday, January 22
National Polka Dot Day http://tinyurl.com/3pkc6rsv
No Day Like a Sno Day!, 2:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Buckeye Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Have sno-cones and games. https://tinyurl.com/yhf4x53f
Pajama Story Time, 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Put on pajamas and listen to a story. Information: https://tinyurl.com/mryyhkd2
Science Fiction Book Discussion, 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina 1907 Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Discuss the Terraformers by Annalee Newitz. https://tinyurl.com/3bkt2xuz
Thursday, January 23
Measure Your Feet Day http://tinyurl.com/4arrjznc
American Red Cross Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m., Brunswick United Methodist Church, 1395 Pearl Road, Brunswick. https://tinyurl. com/2v8p3dyn
Tween Thursday: Tessellation Puzzle and Art , 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Decorate shapes and make puzzles. Ages 9 to 14. Register: https://tinyurl. com/yckyjs9w
Sunset Stroll, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Take a stroll to see a winter sunset. https://tinyurl. com/5n6jbwut
Alphabet Adventure: Y is for Yawn, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Register:https://tinyurl.com/yefpn5zp
MCBDD: Driving with a Disability, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Open to families of people with disabilities. Free Zoom virtual event. RSVP: https://tinyurl. com/2r9rvcsx
Travel Photography Adventures, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Richard Gatschall Presentation of images from around the world. Information: https://tinyurl. com/bdfezsjm
Friday, January 24
Just Do It Day http://tinyurl.com/mwmrjvkf
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Medina Community Recreation Center, 855 Weymouth Road, Medina. https://tinyurl. com/2v8p3dyn
Hide and Seek, 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Lodi Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Lodi. After hours in the library. Permission slip required. Register: https://tinyurl.com/yzeej7ht
Saturday, January 25
Clashing Clothes Day http://tinyurl.com/2k7y8vmv
Wreath Cleanup Day, 10 a.m., 10175 Rawiga Road, Rittman. Dress for the weather. Event ends when cleanup is complete. Information: https://tinyurl. com/mrnua5hz
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hinkley Fire Old Station, 1410 Ridge Road, Hinckley. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
10th Annual Medina County Local History Fair, noon to 4 p.m., Medina Community Room A and B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Presented by Medina County Historical and Geological societies. https://tinyurl.com/mpznvr98
Broad Street Independent Writers, 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Connect with a network and sounding board of fellow people of the pen. Information: https:// tinyurl.com/yc3u3dkk
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.
Art for the New Year
Through January 12
The Artists of Group Ten Third Floor, Medina Library 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina
21st Annual Aquarius Exhibition
January 27 through March 6
Medina County Art League members compete Choose your favorite for People’s Choice Award Third Floor, Medina Library 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina
Sunday, January 26
Toad Hollow Day of Encouragement http://tinyurl.com/ypztxbwu
Monday, January 27
National Seed Swap Day http://tinyurl.com/2hvrdmr8
American Red Cross Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m., Seville United Methodist Church, 74 W Main Street, Seville. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cleveland Clinic Lodi Hospital, 225 Elyria Street, Lodi. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
Beginners Sign Language, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Introduction into American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Ages ten and up. Register: https://tinyurl.com/35f864ba
Sensory Friendly Story Time, 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad, Wadsworth. Prepared especially for children with sensory integration challenges, and their families. Register: https://tinyurl.com/23fwwha8
Music Mayhem, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Make your own music and art. Grades six through 12. Register: https://tinyurl.com/4tnxbs53
Intermediate Sign Language, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Intermediate lesson on American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Ages ten and up. Register: https://tinyurl.com/46z72dp4
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Tuesday, January 28
Pop Art Day http://tinyurl.com/ycyvnk8m
How to be a Dungeon Master, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Ages 12 to 18. Register: https://tinyurl.com/bpac4znu
Sunset Stroll, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., Buckeye Woods Park Ballfield, 6335 Wedgewood Road, Medina. Take a stroll to see a winter sunset. https:// tinyurl.com/5n6jbwut
Dungeons and Dragons, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Bring a level 5 prepared character in D&D 5th edition. Information: https://tinyurl.com/ysn5aycn
Otaku Tuesdays, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina 1907 Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Draw permanent stickers. Grades six through 12. Register: https://tinyurl.com/bddevhdf
Puppet Palooza, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Meeting Room A, Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Puppet show followed by create a puppet. Option for interactive play. Ages three to 12. Register: https://tinyurl.com/4ph79639
Wednesday, January 29
Freethinkers Day http://tinyurl.com/34f4s23u
Birds and Beverages, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center Library, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Enjoy a warm drink in the bird viewing area. Register: https://tinyurl.com/4hs49uxv
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Root Candles, 640 W Liberty Street, Medina. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
Paint by Sticker, 2:15 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Buckeye Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Create a masterpiece. https:// tinyurl.com/yu6hyjpm
Pajama Story Time, 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Put on pajamas and listen to a story. Information: https://tinyurl.com/ysc3pe9t
Local Author: Irv Korman, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Information: https://tinyurl. com/5n9764aw
Thursday, January 30
Draw a Dinosaur Day http://tinyurl.com/5x8s73as
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Medina County Health Dept, 4800 Ledgewood Drive, Medina. https://tinyurl.com/2v8p3dyn
Friday, January 31
International Zebra Day http://tinyurl.com/83b6ka4r
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: ArmstrongOneWire.com
Community Resources
Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities
4691 Windfall Road, Medina
Contact: Patti Hetkey
330-725-7751
Website: https://www.mcbdd.org/
Fireplaces, Hot Tubs, Grills The Place
2377 Medina Road, Medina
Contact: Andrea Reedy
Phone: 330-239-4000
Website: YourPlace4.com
Photographer FlashBang Photography/ Videography
Phone: 440-263-4502
Website: FlashBangFoto.com
Dance
Dance d’Elegance
750 E. Washington Street, #F1, Medina
Phone: 330-990-1451
Website: https://dancedelegance.com/
Want to join these great companies in sponsoring the best publication in Medina County? Contact Amy Barnes, Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com, 330-461-0589.
Joy of Medina County Magazine
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Website: JoyOfMedinaCountyMagazine.com
Phone: 330-461-0589
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