Marvelous Mimi
“In
— Henry David Thoreau
COVER PHOTO BY MIRIAM CONNER
Barn's Chef Austin Radosta elevates
Mimi Bigler
muggy summer nights bring out the fireflies.
FROM THE EDITOR/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER MIRIAM CONNER
Well, June didn’t exactly bring the sunshine we were all waiting for—but, fingers crossed—July and August are ready to turn things around!
Summer is in full swing here in Walden and Aurora, and there’s no shortage of things to do. Flip to Worth Noting and Aurora News on Pages 9 and 10 to see what’s happening—you might just find your next weekend plan!
One of my favorite things about Walden Life is meeting the amazing people who make this place feel like home. Mimi Bigler is one of those gems, and she’s lighting up our cover this issue. Turn to Page 12 and get to know her—you’ll be glad you did.
Now here’s something unexpected: If you’ve ever had a bird thud into your window (yikes!), you are not alone. Curious why it happens—and how to stop it? Nature Notes has you covered on Pages 14–15.
Big things are cooking over at The Barn—literally! There are exciting culinary changes happening, including a fresh new farm-to-fork twist. Go check it out and get hungry on purpose.
A huge thank-you to our advertisers. Please show them some love!
Here’s to a July and August full of sun, stories and surprises. And if something cool is happening in your corner of the neighborhood, tell us—we’d love to share it in the next issue.
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
The Barn has a new farm-to-fork twist.
Get Your Golfing In Before It’s
Too Late
By Collin McEndree, PGA, Director of Golf at Club Walden
As we progress through our tournament season at Club Walden, I want to take a moment to recap our events so far and share some important updates.
Despite a very wet spring, we have successfully managed to keep our tournaments running smoothly. A big congratulations to our winners of the Men’s Member-Member Championship, Zach Mazur and Sanjay Kalhan. We would also like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the Ladies Member-Member Championship, Connie Eddy and Anne Caja.
Our Men’s and Ladies’ Club Championships, along with the Men’s and Ladies’ Old Pal Championship, are still running, and we look forward to seeing how the competitions unfold in the coming weeks.
As we round out our season, please note that we will be closing the golf course from July 14 to July 16. We will reopen on July 17 with only the back nine available until sometime in August, when we will shut down the remainder of the golf course for the season.
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you on the course!
PHOTO BY MARIA BIEL
Collin McEndree
BY MIRIAM CONNER
PHOTOS
SUNRISE SERENITY
Eva Wasil of Fairington captured this stunning shot of the June sunrise over Fairington Pond, looking toward Walden Drive.
BABY BIRDIE WITH A BIG APPETITE
Coby Conner captured this precious moment on Deer Island, as a hungry chick called out for lunchtime.
FUTURE GOLF PRO Deker Drayer enjoys the Member-Member Banquet.
AURORA FIRE DEPT. TO THE RESCUE!
When Ravines resident Sharon O’Neil’s deck umbrella took flight and landed on her roof during a windy day, a neighbor suggested she call the Aurora Fire Department. Just 15 minutes later, the crew arrived and cheerfully retrieved it. Whether it’s cats or umbrellas, the AFD is always ready to lend a hand!
CUTE & CURIOUS
Miriam Conner spotted this raccoon sneaking around her yard—adorable from afar, but let’s keep our distance!
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UPCOMING EVENTS
These events are taking place in July and August. Please contact Club Walden to confirm dates and times by emailing heather@yourwalden.com.
MOVIE NIGHT
Every Monday night, the Inn offers a complimentary movie for members. No need to register. The movie begins at 7 p.m.
BURGER NIGHT
A favorite Social Night at Walden! Reservations are not needed but encouraged to experience a Specialty Burger of the evening. For reservations, call the dining room at 330-995-3111.
YOGA
Yoga is offered daily at Spa Walden, with the exception of Mondays: Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.; evening class on Wednesday at 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8:30 a.m. Cost is $10 for club members; $15 for the public.
SUMMER NIGHTS IN THE ARBOR
The culinary team will grill and prepare fresh items in the Arbor. Live music and a cash bar will complement the evening under the stars in the Arbor.
LIVE PIANO ENTERTAINMENT AT THE CLUBHOUSE AND BARN
Stephen Schuch returns from Chicago! Enjoy an evening of great entertainment and dinner at the Clubhouse. Call 330-995-3111 for reservations.
The walking path in Walden is a wonderful space for residents to enjoy fresh air and scenic views, whether strolling solo or with a furry friend. To keep this cherished pathway clean and pleasant for all, it's essential for pet owners to pick up after their pets and properly dispose of waste bags at your home. Unfortunately, some bags are left behind, detracting from the beauty of the path. To ensure a tidy and welcoming environment, our professional pet waste removal company steps in once a week to clean up any leftover messes. Together, with responsible pet care
and regular maintenance, we can keep the Walden walking path pristine and enjoyable for everyone.
In addition, the Walden Association is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the beauty of our shared spaces. In the coming weeks, the bridges will be power washed to refresh their appearance, and the guardrails and split rail fences will receive a fresh coat of stain to preserve their durability. Additionally, efforts will continue to enhance the Memorial Garden, ensuring it remains a peaceful and welcoming place for reflection. These improvements help keep Walden looking its best for all residents to enjoy.
Walden association neWs
Summer’s in Full Swing Throughout the City
Hooray for summer!
Our Food Truck Wednesdays—the second and fourth Wednesdays of the week from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kiwanis-Moore Park—and our Summer Concert series on the second and fourth Thursdays at Veterans Memorial Park at 6:30 p.m.—are in full swing through August. You can also enjoy the Aurora Splash Pad from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and boat rentals at Sunny Lake Park.
We have a wonderful new attraction this summer, the Aurora Trail, a hike-and-bike trail running from State Route 82 at the former railroad crossing to Chamberlain Road in Mantua Township. We held the Grand Opening on June 28 for this trail that showcases 2.8 miles of beautiful scenery along a 10-foot wide paved path. You can access it from the parking lot at Paddock River Preserve on Trails End. This trail has been a long time in the making, and I am thrilled that the first section is finished. Enjoy!
Please welcome my new Executive Assistant, Rachel Miller, who started in June. She brings 12 years of experience working for a nearby municipality and grew up in Aurora, so she knows our community well. She can be reached at 330-995-9126 and MillerR@auroraoh.com.
Tuesday, August 5, is our National Night Out/Truck and Tractor Night, held annually at Kiwanis-Moore Park, to showcase our police and the extensive collection of vehicles that service our city. The event includes free
food and fun, including an opportunity to learn about and explore vehicles and equipment from all our departments. This event is also a great opportunity for organizations to interact with hundreds of families from our community. Vendors can register online for a tent at the event at Auroraoh.com or email Katie at nahrak@auroraoh. com with questions.
In case you haven’t noticed, our staff works really hard to make the city beautiful, safe and fun. From infrastructure maintenance, including paving, to field maintenance and flowers, to overseeing new construction and issuing building permits, they are busy! And of course, our Fire Department responds to all your distress calls, and the Police Department keeps our city safe from crime. Please express your thanks to them when you have a chance.
Have a great summer! Ann Womer Benjamin, Mayor of Aurora
If You Don’t Know Mimi Bigler, Do You Even Live in Walden?
By Miriam Conner
If you’ve spent any time in Walden, chances are you know Mimi Bigler—or at least of her. She's part of the very fabric of the community, and her story is just as charming as she is.
Mimi grew up in Cleveland Heights and attended Laurel School. Her father owned an auto replacement parts business, which eventually caught the eye of a businessman from California named Lee. Lee bought the business, and over the next 10 years, he and Mimi went from business acquaintances to life partners. The two were married in 1967.
They split their time between homes in Malibu and Pepper Pike, raising two children—Todd and Dana. Todd attended Gilmour Academy while Dana graduated from Orange High School.
Eventually, Mimi decided she wanted just one home base. Lee had always loved Walden, having attended several social gatherings there. Mimi, however, wasn’t sold. “I thought only old people lived in Walden,” she laughs. But Lee, persistent as ever, toured the neighborhood with their realtor and found a lot he thought had potential. He convinced Mimi to take a look, assuring her she could build the house of her dreams.
And that’s exactly what she did. They purchased a lot on Deer Island in 1989 and began construction in 1990. They moved into their custom-built home in 1991, with Walden developer Manny Barenholtz overseeing the build. The Biglers became close friends with Manny—he and Lee especially shared a strong bond.
Mimi has fond memories of those early years in Walden. She loved evenings spent at the back bar of the club, where she met neighbors who would become lifelong friends. One of her favorite events was the annual Deer Island picnic—when everyone gathered, and you really got to know your neighbors. She and Lee appreciated the peacefulness, the sense of community, and the safety Walden offered. Lee, an avid golfer, took full advantage of the links while Mimi embraced the social life.
In 1996, Lee passed away from cancer—a heartbreaking loss. But Mimi chose to stay in Walden, drawn to the comfort of her friendships and the quiet strength of the community. At one point, she thought she might downsize and asked Manny for help finding a smaller house. After a few tours, Manny told her, “You’re not going to be happy anywhere else.” And he was right. Mimi stayed put and has never regretted it. Today, she treasures the view from her deck and the peacefulness of the lake.
Mimi’s family has grown—she now has seven grandsons, ages 20 to 32. Dana lives nearby in Chagrin Falls and has two sons. Todd, who has five boys, is currently in Arizona but is planning a move back to Walden or nearby.
Another beloved companion entered Mimi’s life 14 years ago: Charlee, a Bichon Poodle mix, made a surprise entrance. Mimi’s friend Nancy Atwell heard about a litter of puppies in Wooster and brought home one for herself. Nancy and Cara Johnson returned to pick up a pup for Cara—and a tiny, two-pound surprise for Mimi. They showed up with Charlee during a cocktail hour, and Mimi still laughs at the memory: “That’s what friends are for!”
Most recently, Mimi’s Walden friends—led by Cassie Washburn—threw her a surprise birthday party right at her home. She’s grateful she never left. “I’m so thankful for the memories and the friendships Walden has given me,” she says.
Mimi Bigler isn’t just a resident—she’s part of what makes Walden feel like home.
From left: Mimi, her son Todd and her daughter Dana
Mystifying Summer Flyers Birds That Go Bump by Day; Bugs that Light Up the Night
By Estelle Rodis-Brown
Birds fly into windows by day. Fireflies light up the night. Summertime is full of mysteries that beg explanation.
One of the most appealing architectural features in Walden is the prominence of picture windows, sliding glass doors and window walls. These glass panels help bring views of the natural landscape indoors.
Especially during breeding seasons, birds’ defenses are up. When they see their own reflection in a window or vehicle mirror, they try to fight with the “rival” bird in order to protect their territory (territorial aggression). This happens most frequently with cardinals and robins, but can occur with any species.
Since windows reflect views of the natural landscape, birds fly right into them. Protect our feathered friends by adding patterns to the window (right pane).
Unfortunately, birds flying through the natural landscape cannot detect the transparent or reflective glass barrier between their home and yours. So on any given day, you can hear bird strikes against your windows. And for every collision casualty you may find outside your home, three more typically go unseen, flying out of sight before falling or being carried away by predators.
According to the Audubon Society, window collisions are one of the leading direct human causes of bird deaths in the United States, totaling between 365 million and one billion birds killed annually.
Since birds cannot distinguish reflection from open flyway, they collide with reflective surfaces when attempting to feed or rest, when avoiding predators or flying from tree to tree. Shiny glass exteriors, interior plants near windows, glass corners and greenery close to buildings can all be deadly for birds.
We notice bird-strike casualties more in the summertime because that’s the season when we spend more time outdoors. But bird-vs.-building collisions increase even more during spring and fall migration and when young birds start flying during the spring and summer breeding seasons.
Otherwise, millions of birds are injured or killed each year when they accidentally crash into windows, having mistaken the reflection of the sky for open space. Birds need strong clues on or around glass surfaces to warn them of the barrier.
The best approach is to break up the reflection by placing items on your window’s exterior, such as:
• Creating patterns on reflective glass surfaces (with multiple markings two inches apart)
• Closing interior blinds or curtains
• Installing external window screens
• Moving interior plants away from windows
Placing bird feeders directly on window surfaces
Window blinds can discourage birds from flying into windows. If left partially open, birds can detect a striped pattern from outside the window. This can discourage collisions by creating the appearance of a series of barriers.
Closed curtains and shades can also discourage collisions on windows that otherwise appear transparent. When closed, birds can no longer see through the windows; they look opaque. However, window reflections may still appear. So closed curtains and shades are most effective on windows where collisions are caused by the appearance of transparency.
Fiberglass screening can also be mounted in front of windows to prevent bird collisions. When placed at least five inches in front of the glass with enough tension, most birds that fly into the screen will bounce off without suffering injuries that would result from directly impacting the hard glass surface.
The Audubon Society recommends these brands for effective bird-strike prevention products that are considered simple, elegant and aesthetically pleasing:
• Acopian BirdSavers Wind Curtains (birdsavers.com)
• Feather Friendly Bird Do-it-Yourself Tape (conveniencegroup.com/featherfriendly/feather-friendly/)
• ABC BirdTape (abcbirdtape.org/)
• CollidEscape Window Film (collidescape.org)
One final note: Single stickers or decoys of any shape or size will be ineffective. Multiple smaller markers, spaced in a twoinch-by-two-inch grid, will best preserve your beautiful window views while protecting the birds.
You call them lightning bugs. I call them fireflies.
But they’re all bioluminescent beetles belonging to the family Lampyridae and are known for their magical, pulsing points of light that glow up hot summer nights.
Not all fireflies are created equal, as there are about 2,000 different firefly species that thrive in humid regions of Asia and the Americas, where they mostly feast on plant pollen and nectar.
For the most part, fireflies use their lights to communicate with other fireflies and find a mate. According to National Geographic, they have special organs under their abdomens that take in oxygen which they combine with a substance called luciferin to create light with almost no heat. They use this bioluminescence to light up the ends of their abdomens in yellow, green or orange with their species’ unique flashing pattern. Large groups of fireflies sometimes even blink in unison.
When a male firefly wants to communicate with a female firefly, he flies near the ground while flashing his light every six seconds so she can more easily tell if he’s from the same species as she is. (Most female fireflies can’t fly.) She answers his flashes by responding with her lights; then the male finds her.
Predators, including birds and toads, can easily spot fireflies by their glow, but they rarely eat them because fireflies release drops of toxic, foul-tasting blood. Their flashing lights warn predators to stay away.
An adult firefly’s life span is just one to three weeks, so switch off your exterior lights after sunset and watch for their pulsating glow as more humid, sultry air moves into yards, meadows and forests this summer.
Brought to you by Club Walden
A New Era of Culinary Excellence at The Barn
The Barn at Walden has long been a cherished destination for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience. Now, under the culinary direction of Chef Austin Radosta, The Barn embarks on an exciting new chapter, blending tradition with innovation to offer a truly remarkable farm-to-fork dining journey.
A CULINARY VISIONARY AT THE HELM
Chef Austin Radosta brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at Michelinstarred establishments like Momofuku Ko and 1789 Restaurant in Washington, D.C. His culinary philosophy centers on sustainable practices and a deep
connection to local farms, ensuring each dish is crafted with the freshest, chemical-free ingredients. Chef Radosta’s dedication to sourcing whole animals and embracing nose-to-tail cooking reflects his commitment to honoring the entire ingredient and minimizing waste.
FARM-TO-FORK PHILOSOPHY IN ACTION
At The Barn, the menu evolves with the seasons, guided by what is harvested from local gardens and farms. Chef Radosta has cultivated strong relationships with regional producers such as Lamppost Farm,
Old Forge Dairy, Mud Run Farm and Coyote Run Ranch, among others. These partnerships ensure that every dish showcases the rich flavors of Ohio’s finest produce and meats.
Guests can savor dishes like the everchanging Wagyu-Holstein “Butcher’s Cut” steaks, offering selections from filet mignon to ribeye, and seafood specialties including scallops, octopus and handmade pastas. Each plate is a testament to Chef Radosta’s artistry and dedication to delivering an exceptional dining experience.
GROWING OUR OWN
The Barn’s commitment to freshness extends beyond local partnerships. Garden boxes outside the Barn’s lower level are being cultivated to grow our own vegetables and herbs, further enhancing the menu’s seasonal offerings. Additionally, in-house butchering, baking and charcuterie production are underway, bringing guests closer to the culinary process and ensuring the highest quality in every bite.
AN ATMOSPHERE OF ELEGANCE AND WARMTH
Dining at The Barn is an experience that engages all the senses. The elegantly restored barn exudes warmth and nostalgia, providing an intimate setting perfect for romantic
evenings, celebratory gathering or a special night out. The ambiance is complemented by an extensive wine list to pair perfectly with your meal.
JOIN US FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENING
The Barn at Walden is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday evenings, from 5:308:30 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended to ensure your place at this exceptional dining destination. To make a reservation, visit yourwalden. com or call (330) 562-7136. The dress code at the Barn is casual elegant: jackets are requested for gentlemen; neat, dressy attire is required.
Please note that dining at The Barn is exclusive to Club Walden members, Inn Walden guests, and Spa Walden guests on the day of their visit. For information on Club Walden membership, please email heather@yourwalden.com.
WALDEN WORD EXCERPTS (1994 - 2002)
Here’s a slice of life from Walden published 25-30+ years ago in Walden Word, a newsletter by Walden Golf and Tennis Club. Enjoy these tidbits from yesteryear!
JULY 1998
NOTE FROM THE PRO SHOP:
With all the scoring we do in the shop, the new computer scorecards have been a big help. For the few events we are not able to use these scorecards, please remember to always write your first initial and last name along with your current handicap. Thank you!!
AUGUST 1998
GOLF NEWS: Summer is always a busy time for the Golf Course. There are many days when the early afternoon tee times are booked at near capacity. We have had an abnormal amount of reservations that do not show and do not call to cancel. Please make sure that you call anytime you find that you can not make your tee times so that other members can enjoy these times. -Thanks, Mitch Camp
JULY 1999
HOW QUICKLY DAYS PASS when one’s focus is on the activities of summer. The July calendar is filled with activities for everyone. Ray Jobin has a wide range of family games and entertainment at the pool and tennis courts planned over the Fourth of July weekend. Mitch Camp is putting together a full schedule for all golfers and for those who prefer dining, all of the club facilities will be jammed with great culinary preparations from our chef. No one should feel left out when planning activities for the month of July. -Thank you, Al Zimmerman, Advisory Board President
JULY 2001
WALDEN TOUR OF HOMES: In memory of Dick Schultz and benefitting the Gathering Place, a wellness community for those touched by cancer, July 28th, 2001. This special event begins with lunch at the Walden Clubhouse or The Barn at 12 noon. The tour features the most intriguing homes and gardens and takes place from 1 to 4:30p.m. A Gala Cocktail Party at one of Aurora’s finest historical homes will follow the tour from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
AUGUST 1999
PLAY YOUR CARDS
RIGHT: If you wish to play the 1999-2000 Walden Ladies’ Bridge Season, call the committee by the Tuesday before each game. Social bridge will resume on September 24th. Please arrange your own partner. Call the Club for dinner reservations. If you wish to play Ladies’ Duplicate Bridge 1999-200 Season, please call the committee by the Tuesday before each game. $2 per person.
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.