Summer of Promise
“Go
— Henry David Thoreau
FROM THE EDITOR/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER MIRIAM CONNER
Finally, Sweet Summertime
It’s finally here—the season we’ve all been waiting for! After what felt like the longest winter in recent memory, the sunshine is back, the days are stretching longer, and there’s a buzz of energy returning to our beautiful community.
We’re thrilled to welcome summer and everything it brings along with it. The pool officially opens on May 24. We can already hear the splashes and laughter that make it the heart of the neighborhood during these warmer months.
Tennis players, dust off those racquets and head to the courts—a perfect spot to meet friends, get active and enjoy the outdoors. And for all the golf lovers out there, this is your season to shine. The fairways are
green again, the carts are charged, and the only thing missing is your next perfect drive. Be sure to check out Tee Time on Page 7 to meet our fantastic Golf Staff— they're excited to help you make the most of your game this season.
As we all begin to spruce up our yards and enjoy more time outside, don’t miss our feature on eco-friendly landscaping tips on Page 14—full of smart, sustainable ideas to keep your outdoor spaces beautiful and green in more ways than one.
And on a special note, Walden Life would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Aurora City Schools Superintendent, Mike Roberto, on his retirement. Thank you, Mr. Roberto, for your dedication, leadership and years of service to our community. Enjoy this next chapter—you’ve certainly earned it!
Most of all, we’re just happy to be outside again—to reconnect, smile without shivering, and fill our days with the kind of joy that only summer can bring.
Here’s to barbecues, block parties and spontaneous conversations on evening walks. Here’s to summer in Walden.
LOVING THE WALDEN LIFE,
Walden Life is a property of Mitchell Media, LLC P.O. Box 586 Aurora, Ohio 44202 330-822-4011
Publisher Brad Mitchell Brad@MyWaldenLife.com 330-714-7712
Editor/Associate
Publisher Miriam Conner Miriam@MyWaldenLife.com 440-396-0374
Associate Editor Estelle Rodis-Brown Estelle@MyWaldenLife.com
Art Director
Graphic Design Laura Chadwick Laura@MyWaldenLife.com
Photography Maria Biel mariabiel@me.com
Office Manager/ Accounting
Kathleen Mitchell
Kathleen@MyWaldenLife.com 440-533-1208
Publisher of
Member of
Sales Consultant Delma Romancak Delma@MyWaldenLife.com 216-346-0663 F acebook: @waldenlifemagazine I nstagram: @waldenlifemagazine
Golf Shop Staff Grew Up On the Greens
By Collin McEndree, PGA, Director of Golf at Club Walden
For this issue of Walden Life, I would like to highlight our golf shop staff here at Walden. As you may talk to Erin and Alec on the phone when you call the golf shop, or say hello to them when you are at the club, I would like to share a little more about their lives growing up in golf.
A fun fact about Erin is that she is a published artist in Ohio, showcasing her creative talents alongside her golfing prowess.
A fun fact about Alec is that he achieved a remarkable holein-one at the age of 7 during his first tournament at a U.S. Kids event, and he has notched a total of four holes-in-one throughout his golfing career.
ERIN CRAIG, PGA
(Head Golf Professional)
Erin grew up in Lorain, where she began her golf journey in 7th grade, following her brother into the sport, and went on to play college golf at the University of Findlay. Notably, her brother serves as the head coach at Tiffin University. Erin has been a Class A PGA member since 2017 and is now in her first year at Walden.
Her dedication to the game is reflected in her achievements, including multiple NOPGA awards such as the 2020 Youth Player Development Award, the 2023 and 2024 PGA Junior League Game Changer Award, and the 2024 Patriot Award.
ALEC ADCOCK
(Assistant Golf Professional)
Alec is a passionate golfer from Canton, where he grew up in a golfing family. His grandparents owned Lake View Golf Course in Hartville, which nurtured his love for the sport. Alec played college golf at Walsh University and is currently in his second year at Walden, focusing on advancing his skills. Following in his family's footsteps, he is a PGA Level 1 Associate working towards his PGA membership, with his father serving as a long-time PGA professional who has taught at Seven Hills in Hartville and now at Foxy Golf in Canton.
Worth Noting
BY MIRIAM CONNER
MEMORIAL GARDEN
Spring has breathed fresh life into the Memorial Garden in Walden, with its beauty beginning to flourish. The first phase of work has been successfully completed, including the clean-up of the creek, removal of trees, and the planting of grass and vibrant flora. Moving forward, the next phase will introduce benches and lighting, creating a welcoming space as the needs of this cherished area are thoughtfully evaluated.
JUNIOR TENNIS PROGRAM
The summer tennis program runs on Wednesdays & Thursdays, June 11th through July 31st. The Walden Junior Tennis Program is divided into four levels.
The Quality Start program is for children under 6 years old, from 9:15-10 a.m. This program uses modified equipment and positive reinforcement to promote the great sport of tennis.
The next levels of the junior program are based on ability. The Grass Root 1 program is for children 7-10, from 10-11 a.m. This class uses pro fed drills and games to promote player development.
The Intermediate Class is for players over 10 who have had more experience, from 11 a.m.-noon. This class mixes pro fed drills and live ball drills. Topspin and serve development will be emphasized.
Grass Root 2 is available for 10-13-year-olds from 12-1 p.m. and will build upon skills developed in Grass Root 1.
The Weekday Summer Session Fee is $28 per class or a package rate of $235 for summer sessions. If you plan to attend more than 10 classes, the package rate is your best option.
SKILLS DAY:
Open for all ages and skill levels. Included in the Session Fee. Dates will be provided at the beginning of each month for weekly sign-up.
HOW TO REGISTER:
For information regarding the High School/Tournament player, please contact Kevin directly. Pros will announce various Play Days at the clinic program throughout the summer ($20 per day attended). For more information or to register for the Junior Tennis Program, call Kevin Vaughn at 330-554-3739 or email kvaughntennis@gmail.com.
Please let Kevin know you are registering for the Walden Tennis Program, as he is involved with various tennis programs. Please note, if you commit to the session fee for our Jr. Tennis program, you will be charged that rate. You may not change to the drop-in rate once the summer session has begun. Please contact Kevin Vaughn directly with your questions.
MAY-JUNE EVENTS
Walden is heating up with so many activities and events for May and June! Please check yourwalden.com for all of the ways you can get involved and have FUN!
Easier Ways to Eat Healthy There’s an App for That!
By Miriam Conner
So, you have resolved to eat healthy (again), but the process can be confusing. Some foods may look healthy, but in fact, they may not be. Since everything seems to be at our fingertips today, help with finding what you want to eat and what to avoid is no different. There’s an app for all that, of course!
I scan everything I buy at the grocery store. There are many things I leave on the shelf after taking a close look at the ingredients and explanations.
Here’s the skinny on four of the most popular ingredients-tracking apps for food and cosmetic products:
According to Trash Panda, The Trash Panda app upholds three core values: Ingredients Matter, Transparency is Key, and Better Quality Means Better Health. These key values help you find food products with clean ingredients. The app helps to identify these ingredients as well as provide insights into why other ingredients are considered harmful, with links to scientific studies to back the information on the app. Trash Panda also flags bio-engineered foods.
The Yuka app allows you to scan food and cosmetic products. Yuka analyzes food and cosmetic items and provides a detailed data sheet to explain how each product was evaluated. It also gives you suggestions for items that are better for your health. The Yuka app keeps track of products you have already scanned and displays items according to a color code.
Bobby Parrish is widely recognized as the owner of the highly acclaimed FlavCity YouTube channel, where he has gained a substantial following for his expertise as a home chef and his insightful meal prep techniques.
Parrish was the 2015 champion on the Food Network reality competition series, Guy's Grocery Games. He was also a runner-up on Food Network's Cutthroat Kitchen in 2016. The free Bobby Approved food scanner app instantly shows whether or not a food product is good for your health. Just point your camera, scan the barcode, and find out if your favorite foods are made with healthy ingredients, or if you would be better off avoiding them.
The Fig app helps identify ingredients based on specific food sensitivities and allergies. Some of the main categories are gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, sugar-free, and nut allergies. Additionally, the Fig app allows you to review ingredients and rank them.
If you need to find certain products based on specific, known food sensitivities, the Fig app works well. Once you tell the app which ingredients in food to look out for, the app will provide you with flagged ingredients based on what you've previously selected.
Give one of these apps a try. You may be surprised by some of the ingredients in some of your favorite foods. Happy scanning, and a happy and healthy summer to you!
Note: These recommendations come from the author’s personal experience. Consult with your doctor about using these apps if you have a chronic health condition.
Staff Profile
ERIC LEE
SALES AND CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
TIME WITH WALDEN: 6 months
JOB DESCRIPTION/ROLE: Charged with development, sales and construction at Walden to complete the community in the image of our founder, Manny Berenholtz.
FAMILY: Wife Gali; 11-year-old twins
Eli & Yael
FOOD: Tacos would be my death-row meal.
MUSIC: Depends on my mood. Music is typically on in the background.
MOVIE: Too many to list
HOBBIES: I love to travel. I consider myself an accomplished cook. I know much too much about Cleveland sports.
SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW
ABOUT YOU: Lived in Israel for the last five years
FAVORITE THING ABOUT WALDEN: I love the family atmosphere here in the company. As a new employee here, [I have enjoyed] introducing myself to people around. I was astonished at the retention of employees. It is truly a unique place to work.
PHOTO BY MIRIAM CONNER
WALDEN KITCHENS
FROM THE KITCHEN OF ERIC LEE, WALDEN SALES AND CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
SHAKSHUKA, AN ISRAELI BREAKFAST DISH
Shakshuka is one of my family’s favorites. The ingredient amounts are estimated to suit your taste. I hope you enjoy it.
— Eric
DIRECTIONS
In an oven-safe pan, sauté onions, peppers and garlic in a tomato base. I use a can of whole San Marzano tomatoes, spiced with cumin, paprika, barad and chili powder.
Let it cook on low heat for 30 min.
Add six eggs and put in a 250-degree oven to let the eggs poach in the sauce, maybe 10 minutes.
Top with chopped parsley and serve with a fresh-chopped Israeli salad and warm pita bread to sop up all the goodness.
There are many variations of the dish based on meat or dairy preferences.
Mark Your Calendars: City of Aurora’s Slate of Summer Outings
A Message From Ann Womer
Benjamin, Mayor of Aurora
Summer is coming! The Aurora Splash Pad opens on May 24 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the Sunny Lake Park Boathouse opens then, as well. Boathouse hours are weekdays, noon to 8:00 p.m., and on weekends, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
May 26 is Memorial Day and we will commemorate the occasion with a ceremony at 10:15 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park. A procession will then march from there to the Aurora Cemetery, where another ceremony will occur at about 11 a.m. God bless our veterans!
The annual Plant Sale at the Moebius Nature Center occurs on June 7, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Two big signs of summer—Food Truck Wednesdays and Summer Concert series—begin on June 11 and June 12, respectively. Food Truck Wednesdays are held at Kiwanis-Moore Park, the second and fourth Wednesdays from June through August, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The concerts are on the second and fourth Thursdays at Veterans Memorial Park at 6:30 in the evening.
If you want your kids or grandkids to learn safety issues about bikes, seatbelts, fire, swimming and the like, sign them up for the Aurora Police Department’s annual Safety Town. Five different sessions begin June 9, led by Officer Alexandria Libertucci and others from our Police Department. You can register or volunteer by contacting the department at 330-5628181 ext. 210 (Officer Libertucci). The program is free for Aurora residents.
Nominations for Grand Marshal for our Fourth of July parade are due by May 31. You can find the link to nominate someone on the Parks and Recreation Events page. Our Fourth of July festivities begin with the parade kicking off from the Heinen’s parking lot at 11 a.m. You can register to be in the parade on the Parks and Recreation page on the city’s website at auroraoh.com. The Festival begins at noon at KiwanisMoore Park, featuring food trucks and carnival food, entertainment, inflatables, balloon art, face painting, and character meet-and-greets. Fireworks begin at dusk
at the West Pioneer ballfields. Note that West Pioneer will be closed at about 9:30 p.m. from 43 to Birchbark Trail, in preparation for the show.
Our new park at Geauga Lake is moving along, with plans being developed as I write this. We have had small group meetings with residents and held an open house in April which some of you may have attended. This is a large, exciting project which will be done in phases. We are working on the utility infrastructure and the design for the first phase of the park, some of which we would like to open in the summer of 2026. We hope to have pavilions and greenspace available, with lake access for non-motorized boating, among other things. Fingers crossed!
Enjoy!
— Ann Womer Benjamin, Mayor of Aurora
Announcing 565 Years of Experience Retiring From ACSD in 2025
From the Desk of Aurora City Schools Superintendent, Mike Roberto:
The winds of change are breezing through the Aurora City School District (ACSD). This summer, several shifts in leadership and in the classroom will take place due to the retirement of multiple veteran staff members.
Paul Milcetich, our current Assistant Superintendent, will officially become the ACSD Superintendent on August 1, 2025. Mike Hayes, the current AHS Principal, will fill Paul’s shoes as the next Assistant Superintendent, and at the time of writing this article, we are in the process of hiring a new high school principal. Treasurer Bill Volosin is also retiring at the end of this school year, and we are excited to welcome Bryan Schiraldi, who is coming to us from the Youngstown City Schools, where he has served as Treasurer since 2022.
We also will see a number of staff members’ careers come to a close at the end of this school year. Many thanks go out to these retiring staff members who have served Greenmen Nation, some for decades, and have helped us create a
nurturing learning environment so Aurora Learners are Future Ready: Kim Armbrecht (Craddock - 30 years), Donna Janoso (Craddock - 52), Tami Mazzella (Leighton - 22), Linda Proctor (Leighton - 33), Joy Sharrotta (Leighton -17), Angi Frankmann (Harmon - 23), Paul Frankmann (Harmon - 26), Lauren Sobolewski (Harmon - 27), Nancy Tyrrell (Harmon - 24), Sandy Petti (Harmon - 33), John LoGalbo (AHS - 34), David “Doc” Munson (AHS - 21), Ken Brown (AHS - 28), Kathy Funnell (AHS - 41), Sue Millar (Transportation - 37), Becky Graham (Transportation - 30), Gary Graham (Transportation -11), and Mary Lombardo (Transportation - 27).
Needless to say, there will be a lot of experience and institutional knowledge to replace as, including Bill’s and my time in Aurora, there are over 565 years of experience retiring from the ACSD this school year! We wish the best for each one of these incredible staff members as they turn the page to a new chapter.
Keep up with Aurora City Schools at aurora-schools.org
Transform Your Outdoor Space With 4 Eco-Friendly Landscaping Trends
By Estelle Rodis-Brown
We are finally starting to enjoy the balmy outdoor-weather months. There’s nothing better than walking out your door and entering your beautifully-landscaped yard…
Just never mind that yellowing patch of grass. And try not to notice those puddles of rainwater providing a perfect breeding pond for mosquitos. And what about all this weeding, watering and mowing begging for attention?
There must be a better way to establish and maintain a beautiful, sustainable landscape.
Actually, there are several eco-friendly ways to transform your outdoor space with landscaping trends that combine beauty, sustainability and long-term value. While conventional lawn-care practices require constant treatment and maintenance, these nature-friendly options work with— not against—our regional soils, weather patterns and climate.
Here are four landscaping trends to consider:
1. SUSTAINABLE LAWN-CARE PRACTICES
The Ohio State University Extension Office provides free information on natural organic lawn-care practices. From ideal grass seed selections to composting your clippings, minimizing fertilizer applications, and implementing preventative weed and pest management, sustainability includes protecting the planet while saving resources, time and money. These eco-friendly lawn care solutions balance environmental responsibility with practical savings:
• Cool-Season Turfgrasses - For home lawns in Ohio, four grass species are recommended, depending on your lawn’s soil conditions, shade/sun exposure and the amount of foot traffic it gets: turf-type tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, fine fescue and Kentucky bluegrass. (See ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/hyg-4031 for details.)
• Mowing - Keep your mower blades sharp to ensure an even grass cut; this promotes a healthier lawn that requires less water and fewer costly treatments. Just don’t overdo
it. Longer grass shades the soil, helps prevent weed seed germination, keeps the soil cooler, and reduces water loss. Recommended mowing heights for turfgrasses are 2.5-3 inches for Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass and fine fescue; and 2.5-4 inches for tall fescue. When mowing, never remove more than one-third of the blade of grass at a time.
• Grass Clippings - A real time- and lawn-saver is leaving clippings in the lawn as natural fertilizer. This reduces the need for additional soil amendments while supporting lawn health. Grass clippings break down quickly, returning nutrients and organic matter to the soil, providing up to 30 percent of a lawn’s seasonal nitrogen needs without contributing to thatch formation.
2. NATIVE PLANTS, NATURALLY
Embrace the beauty and benefits of native plants—those naturally adapted to our region’s climate and soil—which naturally resist local pests and diseases. Create stunning, low-maintenance landscapes with native plants that require less water, fewer chemical treatments and minimal upkeep compared to ornamentals, which are often better suited for southern climates. Natives are also vital for pollinators like hummingbirds, honey bees and butterflies, helping to sustain biodiversity in our region.
Consider adding these eye-catching native plants to your landscape design:
• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): Known for its vibrant blooms and ability to thrive in various soil types, this perennial adds color and attracts pollinators.
• Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): This hardy plant is perfect for flowerbeds or borders. Its bright yellow flowers with a dark center ‘button’ are a magnet for butterflies and other pollinators.
• Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum): This drpught-tolerant ornamental grass creates texture and movement in your landscape while providing habitat for birds.
• Ohio Spiderwort (Tradescantia ohiensis): Featuring striking blue flowers, this low-maintenance native thrives in sunny or partly shaded areas.
• Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis): This small,
versatile tree produces beautiful spring blossoms and edible berries for year-round appeal.
Visit The Native Plant Society of Northeastern Ohio’s website, nativeplantsocietyneo.org, to get plugged into local events, workshops and celebrations, and learn more about landscaping with native plants.
3. SMART IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Smart irrigation systems provide an efficient and costeffective way to maintain healthy landscapes while reducing water waste and time spent wrestling with water hoses, spray nozzles and old-fashioned sprinklers. This technology uses sensors and weather data to optimize watering schedules based on real-time conditions. Instead of following a fixed timer, these systems adjust to soil moisture, rainfall and temperature, ensuring plants get the water they need at the right time. This not only keeps lawns and gardens looking their best but also reduces water bills and minimizes runoff that can harm local ecosystems.
For example, smart irrigation systems can detect heavy rainfall and delay watering, preventing oversaturation that could damage plants and flood your property. During dry spells, they ensure water is delivered when and where it’s needed. Over time, this precision can bring significant cost savings while supporting the health and sustainability of your landscape.
4. PERMEABLE HARDSCAPING
When it comes to hardscaping for driveways, patios and walkways, you have options. Permeable hardscaping combines durable functionality with environmental benefits to enhance the visual appeal of outdoor spaces while managing stormwater runoff.
Effective water drainage through porous pavers, gravel, pebble stone and permeable concrete prevents puddling, flooding and other property damage from excess stormwater. These porous materials allow water to seep through and percolate into the ground instead of running off into low areas and storm drains. This reduces the risk of flooding, erosion and water pollution after a popup thunderstorm.
Permeable hardscaping helps you design polished, functional outdoor spaces. Made of durable materials, it may cost more to install but requires minimal maintenance for dependability and long-term savings.
Ask your favorite landscaping service, building supply company or lawn-and-garden center for the smart irrigation systems and permeable hardscaping products they offer.
These four eco-friendly landscaping trends—from organic lawns to native garden plants, smart irrigation systems and permeable hardscaping—allow you to build a beautiful outdoor space that’s inviting to family, friends, pets, butterflies, hummingbirds and honey bees. By requiring less of your time, resources and trouble to maintain it, your property can become even more enjoyable during these warm-weather months.
Brought to you by Club Walden
Time for a Fresh Cut!
Someone once said, "Hair color and a really good blowout can change a girl’s life!"
Diane Carper recently joined the staff at Spa Walden as a hair designer. She has been in the salon industry for 39 years and continues to love doing hair and building relationships with clients. She has been a salon owner, designer and educator during her career. Diane specializes in hair cutting and hair color services. She is available for appointments at Spa Walden on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
More than color and a great blowout, Diane specializes in trendy cuts and men's cuts, as well.
Diane recently moved into the Walden
neighborhood from the Dover/New Philadelphia area. She is the mother of two, Chloe (23) and Will (20). When not at Spa Walden, she enjoys spending time with her partner, Tony, traveling, reading, gardening and walking. She is also a volunteer at Happy Trails Farm Sanctuary in Ravenna.
To schedule an appointment with Diane or any of our Spa Walden practitioners, visit yourwalden.com/ salon-services or call 330-995-9772.
Spa Walden continues to be one of the Top 100 Spas, and right in your back yard. Come see what everyone loves about Spa Walden. Remember, Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and nothing says “I Love You, Mom” like a day at the Spa!
• Tuesday-Friday mornings at 9 a.m.
• Saturday and Sunday mornings at 8:30 a.m.
• Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m.
$15 for the public, $10 for Club Members
Diane Carper
PHOTOS COURTESY OF WALDEN
YOGA AT SPA WALDEN
If
summer, you're in great company.
But more homes on the market also means more competition, so it's absolutely essential that your home is looking its best ... and that's where I come in.
I can help you prepare your home for sale so it gets noticed. I will help you create the best marketing images and will deliver a selling campaign designed to help you achieve the highest possible price.
Michael Knows REAL ESTATE
More
I can help you prepare
so
Photo by Maria Biel
summer, you're in great company.
But more homes on the market also means more competition, so it's absolutely essential that your home is looking its best ... and that's where I come in.
I can help you prepare your home for sale so it gets noticed. I will help you create the best marketing images and will deliver a selling campaign designed to help you achieve the highest possible price.