Let more light in, improve energy efficiency, and give your home a fresh, updated look this
For five decades, All Service Glass has been the trusted name for quality and craftsmanship. From replacement windows and doors to custom shower enclosures and auto glass, we’re here to enhance your home, your vehicle, and your view.
THE BAYLIFF FAMILY
“We are funeral directors, but our profession is really all about life. It’s about the events, large and small, that affect us every day. Our experiences have taught us how to help you honor your loved ones in a way that transforms fond memories into a truly meaningful, personal life celebration event. We are just like you … someone who appreciates living each moment.”
Pictured: Top Row: Brooklyn, Angela Knotts (Licensed Crematory Operator)
Middle Row: Valery Bayliff Fultz (Licensed Funeral Director), Gary Fultz, John Bayliff (Licensed Funeral Director), Becky Bayliff (Licensed Funeral Director)
Bottom Row: Dayrius & Tyla
Neighborhood Sponsor Directory
These local businesses are proud to serve our community and sponsor Shawnee Life Magazine. Their contributions make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and let them know that you saw them in Shawnee Life.
ADVERTISING
DEN Publishing LLC & Shawnee Life Magazine (707) 299-8942
APPLIANCES
Westrich Furniture & Appliances (419) 695-6045
AUTOMOBILE DEALERSHIP
Taylor Kia of Lima (567) 712-6604
BAKERY
Sara’s Sweets (419) 371-4745
BUILDING RESTORATION EXPERTS
Trisco Systems (419) 339-3906
CANCER CARE / ONCOLOGY
Cancer Care of West Central Ohio (419) 221-2273
CEMETERY & MAUSOLEUMS
Gethsemani Cemetery (419) 233-0484
CLEANING SERVICES
Mark’s Maid Service (419) 604-0298
DONATION PICK UP
Habitat for Humanity
Lima ReStore (419) 222-4937
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Brunk Electric (419) 812-2821
FOOD & DRINK
Padrone’s Pizza Lima West (419) 331-3111
PF Lounge (567) 940-9944
Schoony’s Pub (419) 991-4821
FUNERAL HOME
Bayliff & Son (419) 645-4501
FURNITURE
Westrich Furniture & Appliances (419) 695-6045
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Fresh Press Threads (419) 405-6575
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Mercy Health – St. Rita’s (419) 227-3361
HEATING & AIR
Cleaves American Heating & Air (419) 227-4328
Washam Plumbing, Heating & Air (419) 339-0729
INSURANCE
Beery Insurance Services (419) 228-4000
INTERIOR DESIGN
Deborah’s Interiors (419) 991-4400
JEWELER
Vons Diamonds & Jewelry (419) 227-5616
LAWN CARE
Select Lawn Care Services (419) 204-4498
LEASING LOFTS & BUSINESS SPACE
Kelly Martino (419) 604-2356
PET MEMORIAL SERVICES
Bayliff & Son (419) 645-4501
PETS & PET SUPPLIES
Dot’s Pet Center (419) 991-6113
PHOTOGRAPHY
The Ayers, Inc. (419) 236-8418
PLUMBING
Washam Plumbing Heating & Air (419) 339-0729
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Busy B Realty (419) 371-4633
REALTOR
Cowan Realtors (419) 222-1212
SECURITY
Lima Security, Inc. (419) 222-1250
SENIOR LIVING
Kessler Estates Senior Living (419) 331-2442
TRANSPORTATION / LIMOS / PARTY BUS
Lucky Limo, LLC (419) 236-3964
WINDOW TREATMENTS
Affordable Window Fashions (419) 991-4400
WINDOWS & DOORS
All Service Glass (800) 521-7059
March CONT ENTS
Our Junior Writers and special school correspondents share stories about successful students, athletes, or events in the two schools readers in our circulation attend: Shawnee & LCC.
Guest author, Billy Gladwell,
Learn
See
a difference our local
Learn how Mercy Health supports the community and provides
Find
See what’s cookin’ in Shawnee and meet the chef behind the recipe.
Everyone loves to share stories about their pets. Find out how many people tend to treat them like another member of the family. Also learn what cats and dogs are available for adoption from our local pet rescue organizations.
Securities, Real Estate, Tax Planning. We bring the sharpest minds with their practical advice of how to strategically invest your capital to meet your family’s goals.
Our sponsors love to welcome new families to the Shawnee area! If you have a new neighbor, let them know about the free welcome basket!
From Diane’s Desk...
HAPPY SPRING & HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY!
If the long-range forecast is to be believed, it appears we are in for a chilly start to spring. I am learning to embrace the chill of March and April and see it as an opportunity to get outside more as the sunshine lingers a little longer each day.
St. Patrick’s Day is also upon us so I raise my glass to you and shout CHEERS! May you live your life like you have found the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow and experience luck after finding fourleafed clovers everywhere you go!
As usual, please keep the magazine in mind when you have a story, article to share, or a business you want to advertise! Feel free to contact me at Diane@ ShawneeLife.com with your ideas.
Happy Spring from the Hatton Family! Jennifer and Eric live on Morning Sun Drive in Breezewood Estates with their children, Phoenix, Chloe and Xavier, along with their dogs, Leia and Nova. The family enjoys the quiet neighborhood and appreciates their nice neighbors. Jennifer and the dogs love to take walks while the children ride their bikes. The children love to play in the yard while Eric “porch sits” in nice weather. In order to better enjoy the view of nature and wildlife in their backyard, they are planning on building a bigger deck.
Jennifer and Eric bought their house in May of 2017 when their household only included a rescued sled dog named Zeffi, a husky German shepherd mix, and Leia, a husky boxer mix. Within a few years, Eric and Jennifer filled their home with their three beautiful children. Five-year-old Phoenix and six-year-old Xavier joined the household in September of 2019 and then were adopted in November of 2021. Chloe joined the household in December of 2022 at seven years old and was adopted in February 2023. Finally, Nova, a husky, was welcomed into the busy home.
Eric is a native of Lima with both sides of the family from the area. Jennifer was born in Maryland, and attended Ontario High School in Mansfield. Eric and Jennifer met in Columbus while going to school. Jennifer is a hematology/oncology physician, currently serving as a traveling doctor who goes to cancer centers across the midwest. Eric is a retired Army veteran who is a stay-at-home Dad for their very busy children. Phoenix, now 11, goes to Shawnee Middle School and Xavier and Chloe, both 10 years old, attend Shawnee Maplewood.
The Hatton family appreciates the chance to spend time together being grateful for the simple things like walking the dogs, playing and working in the yard and garden, cooking, and playing games together. Jennifer is a Star Wars and Lord of the Rings fanatic, which is reflected in their house decor and family time spent with a movie marathon over several week-
ends. Eric enjoys cheering on OSU and the Las Vegas Raiders, collecting football cards and playing vintage video games. He bowls on Wednesdays with his dad and brother at Westgate. The kids all enjoy Legos and games, including Minecraft and Uno. Phoenix is into Pokemon, Batman, math, science and animals. Xavier also likes Spiderman and serves as sous chef for his mom. He prefers being outdoors in nature and loves to fish. Both boys really like football. Chloe is the reader and is currently reading Goosebumps and Boxcar children. She also likes Harry Potter, American Dolls, Barbies, playing house, and is into arts and crafts. The children recently started 4-H so they can keep learning many valuable skills in the summer.
The Ohio State University Buckeyes is the family’s favorite college team. Jennifer went to OSU for 16 years for her undergraduate and graduate degrees and then for medical school.
The house is divided as far as the NFL. Jennifer and Phoenix are hard core Steelers fans while Dad and Xavier are Raiders fans. Chloe flips back and forth to keep the peace. Mom is convinced Chloe just doesn’t care yet, but in time will choose the Steelers!
Sharing meals are moments the Hatton family enjoys. Jennifer loves to cook and some of the family’s favorite meals include: steak on the grill with corn on the cob, mac-n-cheese, pork ribs, Grandma Helen’s beef stew, chicken dumplings, and spaghetti with homemade spaghetti sauce using tomatoes and herbs from the garden. Jennifer and Eric also enjoy occasional trips to The Met and Old City Prime. As a family, they enjoy Kewpee, Shawnee Station, La Charreada, Applebees, and Beer Barrel. Jennifer did share that the kids prefer to eat “Mommy’s food” over going out.
Eric and Jennifer enjoy sharing their family vacation time in Clearwater Beach/St Petersburg, Florida with Eric’s parents, Deb and Tom. As the children came to the family, they too fell
in love with the warm sands and the wind on their face while charter fishing on the Daisy Mae or going dolphin watching. Eric loves the fresh seafood and beautiful views. Tom, an avid fisherman, got Jennifer and all the kids hooked on fishing.
March is a special time of the year for the family as Jennifer reignites her passion for gardening. Jennifer has a “green thumb” with roses and even won Best of Show for one of her white roses at the County Fair in 2023. She also enjoys growing berries, herbs and vegetables. The children love to help their mom start seedlings, tend the plants, prune, cut fresh flowers for the table, and pick fresh food to cook.
The Hatton family is also looking forward to Easter and are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. They also dedicate money and time in service to several charities. This family has a heart of gold, which is apparent in how they live their life.
Chloe Phoenix Xavier
The Power of Single-Tasking
Personal Development
by Billy Gladwell
Alright, humans—let’s cut the crap and talk about something gnawing at our productivity-crazed minds: multitasking. We’ve been fed this nonsense that juggling multiple tasks at once is the pinnacle of efficiency. Spoiler alert—it’s not. In fact, multitasking is about as effective as using a chocolate teapot.
Imagine this—you’re working on a crucial report while checking emails, texting a friend, and maybe even trying to catch up on the latest episode of whatever show is trending. You feel like a superhero, right? Wrong. What you’re actually doing is setting yourself up for a cognitive train wreck.
Research from Stanford University shows that multitasking is less efficient than single-tasking. Humans who multitask are not performing as well as those who focus on one thing at a time. Your brain is like an old computer— try to run too many programs at once, and it’s going to crash. By switching between tasks, you’re constantly loading and unloading information, which eats up time and mental energy. This “task-switching” can cost you up to 40% of your productive time.
Think about it. When was the last time you truly focused on one task? No distractions, no interruptions. Just you and the task at hand. It’s probably been a while. But when you did, wasn’t the outcome far better? That’s because single-tasking allows your brain to dive deep into the subject matter, leading to better understanding and retention. You’re not just scratching the surface—you’re mining the gold beneath.
Single-tasking isn’t just about productivity—it’s about quality. When you’re focused on one task, the quality of your work improves. You’re less likely to make mistakes because your brain isn’t being pulled in a hundred different directions. This leads to higher quality outcomes, whether it’s writing a report, creating a presentation, or even having a conversation.
Now, let’s talk about stress. Multitasking is a sneaky stress amplifier. Your brain is under constant strain trying to juggle multiple balls at once, leading to
increased cortisol levels—the dreaded stress hormone. This not only impacts your mental health but also takes a toll on your physical well-being. On the other hand, single-tasking can be a mindfulness exercise. By focusing on one task, you’re in the moment, fully present, and this can significantly reduce stress.
Remember that time you were driving and decided to check your phone? Yeah, we’ve all done it, but it’s dangerous. Your attention is divided, and you’re not fully aware of your surroundings. The same principle applies to your work. When your attention is split, you’re more likely to overlook details and make errors. Single-tasking minimizes these errors because you’re fully engaged with what you’re doing.
Alright, let’s get practical. How do you start singletasking? First, prioritize your tasks. What needs your immediate attention? Focus on that and that alone. Set specific blocks of time for each task and stick to them. Turn off notifications, close unnecessary tabs, and put your phone on silent. Create an
Meet Billy Gladwell
Hypnosis, Influence, and Persuasion Authority
With over three decades of experience, Billy Gladwell has established himself as a leading consultant, speaker, and author in the fields of hypnosis, influence, and persuasion. Empowering countless individuals to communicate effectively, ethically influence others, and achieve their goals, Billy’s expertise can transform your life and career.
As a human interaction specialist, Billy provides valuable insights into group dynamics, making them more predictable and suggestible. Utilize these principles to influence others and hear “yes” more frequently, in less time.
Whether you aim to build strong relationships, boost confidence, improve sales, or enhance negotiation skills, Bill’s expertise can provide you with real-world strategies for success.
Why Choose Billy Gladwell?
With over 32 years of experience in hypnosis, influence, and persuasion, Billy’s journey began as a high school student exploring hypnosis. After attending a Tony Robbins seminar and receiving certifications in Neuro-Linguistic Programming™
environment that fosters concentration. And here’s a radical idea—take breaks. Your brain needs time to recharge, and breaks can boost your overall productivity.
In a world that glorifies being busy, slowing down and focusing on one task might seem counterintuitive. But it’s not. It’s about working smarter, not harder. By embracing single-tasking, you’re not only boosting your productivity but also improving the quality of your work and reducing stress. It’s a winwin situation.
So, next time you’re tempted to juggle multiple tasks, remember the chocolate teapot. Focus on one thing at a time and watch how your efficiency and well-being skyrocket. Trust me—your brain will thank you.
By understanding and embracing the power of single-tasking, you can unlock a level of productivity and quality that multitasking simply can’t match. Give it a try and see how much more meaningful and effective your work becomes.
(NLP™) and hypnotherapy, Billy embarked on a mission to help others harness the power of hypnosis.
As a trainer for The Society of Applied Hypnosis, Billy has consulted with counselors, social workers, and therapists, integrating hypnosis into their practices. He also holds expertlevel certifications in Micro Expressions Training and Subtle Expressions Training from the Paul Ekman Group, LLC.
Billy has created over 2,000 hypnosis audio programs, developed ethical sales and persuasion techniques and now consults for individuals and corporations worldwide.
Entertaining, Engaging, and Unforgettable Experiences
Known for his captivating keynotes and seminars, Billy combines entertainment with education. As a critically acclaimed performer, he has held the #1 rated show in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the #1 nightlife attraction on Hilton Head Island.
Customized Solutions and Ongoing Support
Recognizing the uniqueness of each client, Billy conducts indepth research to tailor his approach to your specific needs. To ensure long-term success, Billy offers ongoing support via email, phone, and video conferencing, as well as access to the latest developments in hypnosis, influence, and persuasion. 702.721.8456 Bill@HypnosisForHumans.com HypnosisForHumans.com
Your Local Insurance Agency Since 1985
Beery Insurance Services shops for your insurance so you don’t have to. Every person has unique insurance needs, as one size doesn’t fit all. They offer reputable coverage options for health insurance, as well as life, dental, vision, and much more. They help both business groups and individuals enroll in insurance that fits their lifestyles.
Why Choose Beery Insurance Services?
Beery Insurance Services is committed to assisting their clients. As a locally owned and operated company for 40 years, they value creating long-lasting relationships with their customers. They help you prepare for the unexpected by ensuring you are covered adequately. They provide customers with personalized insurance solutions by gathering your data, shopping the marketplace, spreadsheet the findings, and review the information with you in an understable way. They also assist with filing claims, changing policies, and renewing policies. Let them help you protect your health and assets.
Business Group Health Insurance
Beery Insurance Services specializes in health insurance options for business groups. They understand that every business requires different insurance options and strive to make it easy to provide health benefits for employees. Beery Insurance Services empowers you with all the information you need to choose the right insurance for your business.
Networking with Insurance Providers
Specializing in one area of insurance such as health insurance has given Beery Insurance Services the opportunity to research the many carriers and their products, premiums, networks and all that is available to clients. They offer comprehensive health insurance, including health savings accounts, short-term interim health, Medicare supplements, dental, vision, life, disability income, long-term care, and annuities.
Owners Bev Beery and her son Jeff Beery would like everyone to know that, “While our loyalty is always to the client and we are their advocate, we also prioritize building good relationships with all of the insurance carriers that we represent and their staff so that we can work on behalf of our clients when it comes to their premiums and claim issues.” They aim to stay knowledgeable about all the products available and summarize all of the options for clients.
First Woman-Owned Insurance Agency
You will quickly realize you are in very good hands with owner, Bev Beery, who also happens to hold the title of being the first woman-owned insurance agency in the Lima area. Bev is a well-known and beloved member of the community. In fact, she is a steward for numerous causes that are near and dear to her heart and the heart of her clients. She stays busy as a member of her local Kiwanis service group, she is a long-time board member for Family Promise which works to prevent and end family homelessness, and she serves as a state board member of Ohio Excels whose mission is to improve the quality of education in the state of Ohio. Bev is also active in programs through Grace Community Church like the Community Outreach Program and Kids Hope where she mentors students from Lima City Schools. Bev is on the statewide board for the National Federation of Independent Businesses and sits on the Small Business Advocacy Board and the Legislative Committee of the Lima/ Allen County Chamber of Commerce.
Bev has been recognized for her accomplishments and dedication to those in need in our community. She is a role model and an inspiration. Here are just a few of her awards: Jefferson Award for Public Service in 2017, Small Business Champion of Ohio in 2022, and Woman-Owned Business of the Year in 2023.
Bev has always been an advocate for small businesses and individuals in their search for health insurance and employee benefits by finding them the best plan to meet their needs and keep it affordable while maintaining on-going relationships. Bev’s deep affection for Lima is also undeniable as she shares, “I have made so many friends and have gained so much satisfaction being a part of the Lima community that I tell everyone I love living in Lima and never want to live anywhere else.”
Visit their New Location for a Free Consultation
You are encouraged to visit their new office at 2575 Breese Road in Lima for a free, no obligation consultation to review the details of your current policy to see if there might be something better, or shop for an entirely new plan! When you visit, you will be welcomed by office manager, Kim Palmer, who has been with the company for 17 years and is regarded like family. Learn more about how Beery Insurance can help you by calling 419-228-4000.
Bev Beery, Jeff Beery, Kim Palmer
Making a Mark
Downtown Lima: A Thriving Heart
by Cricket Rodriguez, Executive Director of Downtown Lima, Inc.
A Renaissance in the Making
Have you been downtown recently? It might surprise you. In 2024, downtown Lima experienced a remarkable transformation. Nearly two dozen new businesses opened their doors, marking the largest economic growth spurt in decades. From trendy boutiques and gourmet restaurants to entertainment venues and cultural hubs, the city center is buzzing with activity. Downtown Lima Inc. is proud to have supported this exciting growth, working diligently to make downtown Lima a thriving destination for our community.
The Downtown Lima Inc. Mission
To enhance and advocate for a dynamic, vital, and sustainable downtown.
A Community Effort
Downtown Lima Inc. (DTL) is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to enhancing the downtown area. For thirty years, DTL has worked tirelessly to create a vibrant and inviting downtown district. But we are not alone. Our standing board members include the City of Lima, Visit Greater Lima, The Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce, Allen Economic Development Group, Veterans Memorial Convention and Civic Center and the Allen County Commissioners all share the common goal of revitalizing Lima’s downtown. A strong community of over 100 members drives DTL forward through their active involvement, whether it’s volunteering at events or contributing their insights on committees.
Together, we are actively enhancing the downtown experience in several ways through Downtown Lima Inc. The DTL Design Committee is beautifying the streetscape with the Banner Program, showcasing artistry while providing advertising opportunities for area businesses. Our Planter Program adds a touch of natural beauty, filling the area with color and fragrance. We also empower businesses to thrive through our Development Loan Program, providing crucial funding for business growth and opportunities. And with the city’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), DTL is encouraging exploration and supporting local establishments by allowing visitors to enjoy spirited refreshments while discovering all that downtown has to offer.
“The Central District is very thankful for the Development Loan Program through Downtown Lima Inc. helping to provide gap funding for developments,” said Tracie Sanchez, owner and developer of the Central District. “This type of funding is critical to make projects like Central District work. We appreciate our local organizations being able to offer these types of programs.”
Downtown Lima Inc. plays a crucial role in shaping the heart of our city. We actively participate on the Design Review Board, ensuring that new developments and renovations enhance the downtown aesthetic and align with the city’s vision. DTL has partnered in two parking studies, the most recent in 2021, to improve downtown accessibility. This resulted in additional public and private parking lots downtown being opened for free evening and weekend parking.
Our strategic plan focuses on connecting businesses with valuable resources, promoting a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, and securing sustainable funding to support ongoing programs and initiatives that benefit the entire community.
Modish Maven Boutique, a downtown business owned by Tonya Gendreau, benefited from such a program that was funded by First Financial Bank. “The Facade Im-
Images by Modo Media
provement Grant was invaluable in enhancing our visibility in downtown Lima,” Gendreau said. “This support not only helped us attract foot traffic but also alleviated some of the financial burden associated with launching a new business. We are profoundly grateful to have been selected for this grant.”
Join the fun!
To continue our vital work, we rely on the support of you, the community. By becoming a member, you can contribute to our organization’s efforts and help shape the future of DTL and downtown Lima. Members enjoy exclusive benefits, such as networking opportunities, marketing exposure, and a voice in shaping programs, events, and initiatives.
For those who want to get involved and support the revitalization of downtown Lima, there are plenty of opportunities to participate in exciting events.
“Game Show Extravaganza”
Our annual fundraiser, the Game Show Extravaganza is a popular event bringing back the nostalgia of the prime-time Game Shows of the ‘70s and ‘80s, where contestants can “Come on Downtown!” to win some amazing items from local businesses as well as other premium prizes. Tickets are available now at www.visitdowntownlima.com.
“Build a Bouquet with Mom”
This year, the DTL Promotions Committee is launching a new fundraising event called “Build a Bouquet with Mom” to support the beautification of downtown Lima through the Planter Program. The Saturday before Mother’s Day, you will have a chance to join Mom as she explores the exciting new developments downtown. At each participating business, she will collect a fresh cut flower and enjoy an exclusive discount or free item. Mom will end the day with a beautiful bouquet, and you will have fond memories with Mom in downtown Lima. One ticket is needed per bouquet, not per person who is attending. The event is limited to 100 bouquets, so secure your spot by visiting www.visitdowntownlima.com.
You can also follow Downtown Lima Inc. on Facebook and Instagram for more events and updates throughout the year.
Downtown Lima Inc.’s Vision
A vibrant downtown for all.
A Brighter Future
“While we’ve seen significant progress, the work is far from over,” said Cricket Rodriguez, the Executive Director of Downtown Lima Inc. “We are dedicated to creating an inviting downtown space that attracts visitors and residents alike. There’s a wave of optimism happening right now. You can literally feel it when you walk around. And we want to use that to focus on enhancing public spaces, supporting local businesses, and hosting unforgettable events that contribute to the overall excitement and pride in our community.”
As downtown Lima continues to evolve, it is clear that the future is bright. With the support of the community and the dedicated efforts of us here at Downtown Lima Inc, the city center is poised to become an even more vibrant and thriving hub of activity.
Career Pathways
Patient Care Technician / Summer Nurse Extern Program
by Nicole Davis
1. How does Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center support local students in nursing? Selected students have the opportunity to gain clinical competence and ease the transition from student to professional nursing. This is done through different pathways, depending on the level of study, known as either a Patient Care Technician or a Summer Nurse Extern.
2. What is a Patient Care Technician (PCT)?
This position is for anyone 18 years or older that is interested in starting their path in the medical field. Not only does St. Rita’s offer free online training, but students are compensated for the time it takes to complete required courses, such as earning Basic Life Support Certification. PCT employees provide direct basic care under the guidance of a designated health care professional, act as a liaison between patients and nurses, provide documentation and other duties as required.
3. What is the Summer Nurse Extern Program? It is an eight-week summer program beginning June 2, 2025. Students who are currently enrolled or have completed their junior level of studies in a RN nursing program may apply. Externs participate in a number of clinical experiences and attend special seminars, while being assigned to areas that match their personal interests. Externs receive a stipend and tuition reimbursement while participating in the program.
4. Who are the programs designed for? “For high school students we offer the PCT program at St. Rita’s. Additionally, we partner with high schools in our
Use this QR code to learn more about the Summer Extern Program: Hazmat Training in the ER Externs
10-county area to provide insight on the reality of the nursing field through interviews and career panels. The externship program is for nursing students who are in or have completed their junior year of college and are on their way to their professional nursing career.” – Kate Blue, Director of Nursing
5. How are students selected? “We are looking for people with great character and integrity. As we build our culture, students will be set for success to join our team through unique opportunities and high-level training.” – Grant Recker, Emergency Department Nursing Manager
For more information about becoming a Patient Care Technician, contact Grant Recker: GMRecker@mercy.com
Use this QR code to find your nursing Pathway:
For more information about the Summer Extern Program, contact Marcus Cole: MCole1@mercy.com
Weird World Art Market
Monthly Arts and Crafts Market Brings Culture to Lima
by Jihane Bishop, Weird World Art Market Host
Art and culture are expressions of human spirit. An artist goes through intrinsic fulfillment of purpose through the experience of creation, and the viewer witnesses the soul of the artist. In small town Lima, Ohio, the hosts behind Weird World Art Market aim to keep culture alive and give local artists and crafters a space to express themselves and sell wares. As the current host, I invite people of all ages to come check it out.
Visual Artist Ryan Stechschulte longed for a space for artists like him in his hometown: “I had always felt that there really wasn’t a space that I could already join… that was already carved out for me or people like me. Weird World was kind of my way of saying, ‘well, if there isn’t anything, then I’m going to create something and see if I can get it to take off.”
In spring of 2022, the young artist decided to create the artistic space he wanted to see in his community and thus, Weird World Art Market was born. The first market was hosted at Somewhere in Time, Lima’s historically LGBTfriendly bar, and then soon found a home at Lima’s Outskirts Brewery. In 2025, the event is in a new area, welcoming a new era of crafters and a new audience. This year, the art and crafts market is set to occur every 2nd Saturday each month at the
Central District building located at 207 South Central Ave, Lima, Ohio from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Artwork, crafts, and items vary from event to event, offering many options: paintings, drawings, stained-glass, jewelry, needlework, candles, made-from-scratch natural beauty items, even hot food, and much more.
The current venue, Central District Lima, is the home for various small businesses, including Modish Maven Boutique, Touch of Europe Bakery, Ev’Dera Bath & Body, Winans Coffees and Chocolates, Red Fox Boutique, Annette Bridal, Infinity Hair Studio, Steady Does It Mechanical Services, Bath Masters, iHeart Radio, The Hub MakerSpace, and the new restaurant, Social House. Join us on a 2nd Saturday and make a day of shopping at Weird World Art Market and the Central District!
needing to rely on a system that doesn’t look out for them in the first place.”
To apply to sell your wares as an artist or crafter, message Weird World Art Market on Facebook or email weirdworldartmarket@ gmail.com with a description of your business, website, and any possible photos. Weird World is also looking for music acts and food trucks.
Not pictured: Maria
Founder of Weird World, Ryan Stechschulte, says: “Art is everything. There’s no point to anything without art. People need art. Art is just intrinsically part of life… The art market is a genuine experience with people who really put their hearts and their energy into what they create because they actually have a hope that they can create something for themselves, you know… that they can create their own way of supporting themselves and finding out who they are instead of
To create is to bear your soul. To view art is to bear witness to a soul. To attend Weird World Art Market is to have fun, check out some cool creations, and meet some cool people along the way. You’re invited!
and Becky Diglia
Pignataro
Achievers
Lima Central Catholic’s National Honor Society
by Maria Pignataro
It’s often easy to notice what emerging leaders look like, even from a young age. We commonly see students recognized for achievements in activities such as sports or other extracurricular. Although, one very notable type of achievement among high school students that may be overlooked is academics. At Lima Central Catholic, eleven top students were selected to become members of the National Honor Society.
2024-2025 National Honor Society Members
replied, “In order to lead, you first need to serve, and by volunteering their time and efforts, they are serving their school first, which shows great leadership.”
Horstman also added that the members are always willing to help any student in need, oftentimes through tutoring.
This leads us into the main duties of NHS members. Each member volunteers a certain amount of hours of individual
tutoring sessions. Oftentimes, the members will tutor underclassmen and help them learn study skills they can use later on. Every Wednesday, NHS hosts “study tables” for an hour after school. This is an open time slot where any student can come in to ask questions about homework, get help studying for a test, or even just have a quiet space to work.
What exactly is the National Honor Society (NHS), and what does it entail? Maintaining a minimum GPA of 3.7 through at least four semesters of high school is the minimum qualification. The National Honor Society recognizes students for their hard work, character, and service to their community. This group equips students with the skills to be great leaders among their school, and also beyond graduation. Generally, members get inducted into the NHS their junior year, but some also join their senior year. Wes Horstman, history and math teacher at LCC, has taken on the role of NHS advisor for the current school year. When asked how these particular students strike him as leaders, Horstman
Another large project NHS students do is a community service project. Last year, when these 11 students were juniors, they were split into groups amongst themselves and the seniors. Each group came up with a community service project they were going to do together. For example, one group volunteered their time to help clean at the Humane Society. Trudy Thompson, math teacher at LCC was in charge of advising the National Honors Society group for the 2023-2024 school year. Regarding last years’ services she said, “In general, when people do volunteer work, they feel a sense of community and gain a better sense of empathy for others. Through the projects students chose, they demonstrated significant growth in leadership skills, collaboration with peers and other adults, and developed a deeper sense of personal respon-
Front row: Hayley Chambers, Maria Pignataro, Jillian Terrill, Teagan Helmig, Melana Badea, Ava Hefner Back row: Austin Craig, Cole Rinehart, Angelo Collins, Claire Janowski, Emma Skinner Not pictured: Nathan Niemeyer
Advisor, Wes Horstman
Jill Terrill helps a student during weekly study tables.
sibility. I hope this encourages them to continue to be involved in community service beyond high school.”
This brings us into this year’s projects. The students have decided to split into two groups. One group will be making motivational and inspirational posters to hang around the school and in the bathroom stalls. Just seeing an uplifting message like this could make a difference in someone’s day. The other group will be holding a bake sale, and using the proceeds to buy supplies for the Samaritan House. These projects will begin when the current juniors are inducted at the ceremony. This ceremony is held to recognize all the efforts of the students, and the dedication they have put in to achieve their academic goals.
The National Honor Society at LCC even has leaders within the group. There is a secretary (Jillian Terrill), treasurer (Maria Pignataro), vice president (Melana
Badea), and president (Austin Craig). Each leader has an individual role within the group and helps all events run smoothly. When asked about his role as president, Austin Craig said, “ I enjoy the responsibility and being able to lead my fellow classmates. I feel close to the student body, and they can come to me with any questions or if they need help.” Austin is an involved student at LCC, in both athletics and academics. He was voted into this position by his fellow NHS members, showing the respect he has earned from his classmates and friends.
Most of the NHS members have been in school together their entire lives, so their work ethic and drive has seemed to rub off on each other. Each individual brings their own talents that they share with the group. There is also an aspect of healthy competition among the members. Seeing each other succeed makes each individual want to work harder to better themselves. The sense of community among the members is special, and definitely an advantage that stems from the small size of LCC. If you wanted to define an “amazing achiever,” these individuals would fit the description. Their willingness to help others does not go unnoticed. It is groups like the National Honor Society that shape young people, such as these LCC students, and set them up for successful and bright futures.
Service hours at the Humane Society
Austin, Ava and Hayley working hard at study tables.
ArtSpace’s 2025 Juried Photography Exhibition
31 photographers had their work displayed in the 2025 Juried Photography Exhibition at ArtSpace between January 11th - March 1st. Nine photographers won awards. The only requirement was the photographer had to bring their work ready to hang and up to five original pieces could be entered. This year’s juror was Craig Orosz, former Lima News Photo Editor.
ArtSpace Executive Director, Sally Windle, had this to say: “The ArtSpace Photography Show has a history of being one of the finest in the region. The high quality standard was set when the Photography Club was responsible for the event. Since then, we have worked to keep the quality and integrity set to their (and our) expectations, keep the award monies high, and keep an excellent presentation. This year’s show is a perfect example of all of those requirements. ArtSpace is honored to showcase the great work and great photographers.”
Orosz chose Amanda Rose’s Little Robots as the Best of Show because “it is very interesting to look at. I know that some of you may think otherwise, but really take a look at it, and I think you will see what I see in this photo.” He gave the First Place Award to Ajina DuPree for her untitled piece. “This piece is so unique. I love the composition, and it really draws you in. The llama is smiling for this photo.” The Second Place Award went to Alex Stinebaugh for by Diane Schoonover Into the Abyss. According to Orosz, “This is so haunting. I absolutely love the composition. And it is one of the best Niagara Falls photos I have ever seen.” Third Place went to Spencer Cunningham for Reaching. Orosz said, “I love the colors in this photo. It’s a simple composition, but the way the trees are bending in and out just really makes a great image.” The Color Award went to Barbara Ward for Light Play #38. “The color award is just a dream, like it’s awesome display of textures and colors.”
BEST OF SHOW - Little Robots by Amanda Rose
FIRST PLACE AWARD - Untitled by Ajina DuPree
THIRD PLACE AWARD - Reaching by Spencer Cunningham
SECOND PLACE AWARD - Into the Abyss by Alex Stinebaugh
COLOR AWARD - Light Play #38 by Barbara Ward
Displayed images were photographed by Richard Parrish for this article.
During this three-hour, hands-on, transformational experience, attendees will gain clarity on their goals, increase their confidence, and accelerate their personal & professional growth - learning & leveraging some of the same tools that Heroic uses to support elite performance at the highest levels of collegiate and professional sports, the U.S. Military, Fortune 100 companies, and every day heroes around the world
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10am - 4pm
Wednesday: 11am - 5pm
Thursday: 10am - 4pm
Friday: 10am - 4pm
Saturday: 9am - 1pm
Sunday: Closed
Baked Macaroni & Cheese
from the kitchen of Beth & Dennis Rockhold of Indianbrook
by Janine Douglass
Even though their quiet cul-de-sac location is not outstanding in the Indianbrook neighborhood for its high-traffic site, the home of Beth and Dennis Rockhold is actually just the opposite when you get the chance to cruise by it in any given month throughout the year. Through Beth’s mother, an artist/ retired art teacher, she has inherited a natural knack for not only choosing handsome outdoor paint colors, but for highlighting the joy of each changing season and consecutive holidays with delightful exterior accents. Beth and Dennis, both of Rockhold Wentling Financial Advisors, bought their current Shawnee home in April of 2008, a short commute to their investment management office on South Cable Road, Lima.
The same type of long-term investment, but in personal terms, is evident by Beth’s devotion to the recipe she offers here, handed down from her mother and preceding generations. Tweaked by Beth, this craved dish is requested for holidays, cookouts, graduation parties, reunions, and church potluck meals by friends and family, including adult son, Matt, daughter, Jennifer, and grandchildren, Zoey and Wyatt. (Beth jokingly adds she thinks that if she ever showed up without this favorite, she would be sent home!)
INGREDIENTS
• 16 oz box elbow macaroni
• 32 oz shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1 stick butter (1/3, 1/3, 1/3)
• 1/3-1/2 cup flour
• 6 oz heavy whipping cream
• salt & pepper
DIRECTIONS
Boil the macaroni until tender. Drain macaroni and rinse. Cover bottom of casserole dish with shredded Colby Jack cheese, a layer of elbow macaroni, another layer of shredded cheese, sprinkle a bit of flour over the cheese, cut 1/3 of the butter into pats and place on flour, then sprinkle salt & pepper to your preference. Repeat this process two more times, and then the last layer will be only elbow macaroni, shredded cheese & pepper. Before baking, pour heavy whipping cream over the top of the casserole. (Beth normally prepares this dish the evening before, in a large crock pot dish, refrigerating it until the next day. Then, before she bakes it, she pours the heavy whipping cream over it. When finished, she places the crock pot dish back into the heated outer case/unit of the crockpot, keeping it on low while serving.) The quantified ingredients yield approximately 20 servings. To serve a smaller gathering, decrease ingredient amounts accordingly.
Beth likes to serve stewed tomatoes along with her mac & cheese with an artist’s eye for color contrast and taste compatibility. Her love of art and design, obvious in her home’s curb appeal, is not just a hobby, but thrives in interior design talent. In fact, at the Rockholds’ favorite getaway vacation spot, Hidden Mountain Resort in Sevierville, TN, she has collaboratively designed three of the cabins there. In that idyllic setting, too, her baked macaroni and cheese creation is demanded, devoured and delights!
A Colorful Approach to Wine
by Brian Keegan, Wine Steward - Old City Prime American Steakhouse
In my capacity as Wine Steward at Old City Prime (OCP) American Steakhouse in Lima, I am often asked by customers to recommend a wine to pair with an entrée. This is not as easy as it might seem. The old rule is, of course, red wines with red meats and hearty tomato-based pasta dishes and the like; and white wines with seafood, light sauces and most fowl. And where, one might ask, do rosé wines fit into this old rubric?
I find it is often useful to approach the question from a different perspective. For example, there is a substantial difference between prime rib and a Delmonico ribeye. The rib is milder in flavor and very fatty whereas the ribeye is beefier in flavor and marbled but much leaner. The ribeye can accommodate a bolder red such as a cabernet sauvignon or merlot, but those wines would overpower the rib. Considering the extra fattiness of the rib, a better pairing would be a milder red with a more acidic character. Pinot Noir comes to mind as does a Barbera or similar medium-bodied red.
Another consideration is not just the color of the entrée but also its flavor profile. In this instance, the thing to consider is balancing the food with a wine. A dish like chicken piccata, for example, with its lemon butter caper sauce, calls for a wine that would be a balance to the citrusy acidic sauce. A nice nonbuttery chardonnay would be excellent or a sauvignon blanc from Bordeaux - but I would avoid the grassy sauvignon blancs from New Zealand.
And what about other dishes that are somewhere in between? In my experience, this would include salmon dishes, some veal entrees and darker fowl
such as duck or pheasant. These can be the trickiest of all, so my approach is to consider the cooking method involved. For example, salmon with a sweet glaze like mango chutney (which we serve at OCP) requires something on the dry side to counter the sweetness of the chutney. Here the options are quite diverse. I could recommend a dry rosé, a dry white with some body to it like a white Bordeaux or even a lighter pinot noir, such as some of the excellent domestic wines coming from the Willamette Valley in Oregon.
Dishes with a heat component, such as blackened seafood or fowl, will benefit by being paired with a wine that contains a hint of sweetness. Vouvray (chenin blanc), viognier and a mild riesling or gewurztraminer would be good choices, but I would avoid anything with a higher sugar content such as moscato or any late harvest wines.
As our culinary options have expanded over time, the task of pairing wine and food has become more complex. Not too many years ago, your average steakhouse served grilled beef and pork, a chicken dish or two, shrimp cocktail and maybe a couple seafood entrees along with their take on French onion soup, the house salad and a few desserts. Today menus have expanded in many directions to all manner of chef’s specials, creative designer dinners and a myriad of complex flavor profiles.
To keep pace with all this innovation, designers of wine lists (yes, I think of it as a design project as much as anything) have also had to expand their offerings. Our list at OCP, for example, has over one hundred wines to choose from, something that would have seemed extreme in our market not so long ago.
So what is the answer to this knotty problem? Often it is situational. I’ll explain.
If you are able to and can afford to get a reservation at a top tier restaurant where you are going to spend top dollar for dinner, there is probably going to be a sommelier on the staff. This is a person who has spent years studying wine and food pairing and has become intimately acquainted with the wines on the restaurant’s list. Ask for a recommendation but have some idea of your spending limit because the
first offering will be high on the value scale (their main aim is to make money, after all). Once the negotiation has been settled you may be certain the wine will be a good match for your entrée.
Most places won’t offer this service, but there often will be a Wine Steward whose job it is to maintain the wine cellar and who has probably chosen all the wines on the list. You could think of the sommelier as someone with a Ph.D. in wine and the Steward as an enthusiastic Master’s student. Again, when in doubt – ask.
If neither of these is an option, there’s a chance there are servers in the restaurant who can be helpful.
But the best thing to do if it is important to you to get the most out of food and wine pairing is to get some education on the subject. In this age of information overload, there are any number of online services available. There is the elaborate site try. vi,which has a dazzling number of options (lots of fun for foodies, too). I also like thewinesociety.com, though they are also wine merchants and offer to sell you stuff (ignore all that – they’re in the U.K. and the delivery charges would be horrendous).
The exploration of food and wine pairing can be a great culinary adventure and like most adventures, I believe, what you bring to it is the most important component.
Precious Pets
Ginger the Gourmand
by Georgie Damschroder
BREED BACKGROUND
At some point or another, all of our dogs have eaten something they shouldn’t have; maybe a sock, a child’s toy, or a piece of chocolate. And while this habit can certainly be frustrating, we should be more thankful that our pups don’t have more expensive tastes. The same can’t be said for Cecil, a goldendoodle who, in 2023, snatched up a wad of cash from his family’s counter and ate the whole thing- about $4,000. Cecil ended up being perfectly fine, but his owners, who had to gather up the money as it passed, clean it, then tape it back together certainly weren’t. Even worse than Cecil is Sierra, a black labrador who gulped down both her owner’s engagement ring and wedding ring in one sitting. The cost of the rings totaled around $23,000, but luckily, the rings were retrieved in an emergency surgery, and Sierra was just fine. And another pup’s monetary lunch may not seem as impressive-only $1.11-until you realize that Jack the jack russell terrier ate this amount entirely in pennies.
GINGER
One local pup loves gobbling up whatever she can find, though to the relief of her family, her taste is less pricey. Ginger is a sevenyear-old cavapoo welcomed into the Heitmeyer family from a breeder in Columbus, and she is known for her love of almost everything edible. Be it brussel sprouts, peppers, spinach, or apples, Ginger will wolf it down and then immediately demand seconds. The only food she has a distaste for is onions; she will always turn her nose up at them, perhaps sensing that onions are toxic to dogs, and instead try to find something more suitable for a voracious pup like her!
When Ginger’s appetite has been satisfied, she spends her free time searching for new friends to run and play with. Ginger is definitely a people-pup, and she often sneaks past her inground fence to say hello to her favorite neighbors before her family finds out and drags her back home. Though Ginger is always up for any game that involves being around others, she has a particular love for the game of fetch. She will chase any
ball you throw to her for hours on end, her energy never seeming to wane, smiling and wagging her tail the entire time!
No matter what her family is doing, Ginger wants to be a part of it. As such, she despises being left home alone, and will scratch and whine until she finally gives up and collapses into some soft pillows for a nap.
“When we get home, she greets us like we have been gone forever!” says mother Debbie.
One of Ginger’s favorite ways to kick back and relax after a long day of fetching balls and visiting neighbors is going for a ride in the family’s boat. Whenever she’s out on the water, Ginger will lean over the edge of the boat, feeling the wind in her fur as it flops her long ears every which way!
The Heitmeyers live in Indianbrook on Hokan Trail, where they adore their friendly neighbors (that have gotten very used to returning Ginger home!) and all of the different activities hosted by Indianbrook throughout the year, such as the annual Luminary Night or tailgates. The family consists of Ginger, parents Debbie and Jeremy, and children Caden and Rylen.
Even if Ginger does mistake something expensive for an apple slice some day, her family will love her all the same, and will never stop giving her all the love and table scraps a dog could ever ask for!
Happy Tails Pup Partners formed as a non-profit 501(c)(3) in 2013. At that time the Allen County Dog Warden’s Office was consistently at capacity. We started pulling dogs from there that needed extra medical care and also to free up kennel space. We were doing some work with the Auglaize County Humane Society and distributing supplies to Angels for Animals back then as well. Until recently, we were providing assistance at the Ohio SPCA and had been doing so for almost 10 years.
Our focus is on local animals who are in need, whether they are in shelters, lost from owners, injured or have been abandoned. We have also assisted owned-animals in times of crisis with food and medical emergencies. Happy Tails has funded many surgeries for shelter dogs, as well as transported them to and from these appointments. We have taken dogs to board and training programs to help improve their chance at adoption also. We have purchased dog and cat food, Kuranda beds, cat condos and many other supplies needed for our local animal shelter over the years. We network to find forever homes or specialized rescues and also pull dogs that may not be thriving in the shelter environment. We may pull dogs to heal from surgery, or if shelter life is putting them in too much distress. We then adopt them out or we may even keep them to live out their lives in our home, depending on the situation. We have a special place in our hearts for senior dogs and often look to pull those who are up in years, out of shelters. We do realize that sometimes animals need rehomed, and we can provide assistance there as well. We have done some TNR (trap/neuter/ release) of community feral cats in the past and look forward to visiting that again this Spring.
Our most recent endeavor is taking on the need for low-cost spay/neuter clinics in the area, through our Spay it Forward Program, which we hope to provide every few months. The overpopulation of animals can lead to neglect, animal cruelty, and over capacity shelters and rescues. Our hope is that area veterinarians will reach out and work with us, so we can continue to schedule and help fund these clinics. We truly appreciate Serendipity (Midwest) Animal Clinic staff and Dr. Jackie for hosting our first two clinics in January. The clinics fill up quickly as there is great need. Please go to our Facebook page and fill out the application in the link pinned to the top of our page. You only need to fill it out once and we will notify you when a spot becomes available at a futue clinic date.
Happy Tails needs foster homes. We cannot help many of the animals we would like to, without caring people who are willing to open their homes and hearts and become fosters. We provide everything needed and it is a rewarding experience for both the animal and foster family, so please contact us.
We usually work mostly with dogs, but last year we met a wonderful woman named Gerri, who was trying to get a handle on the stray cat population in her neighborhood. A neighbor had let out her female cat who was not fixed, to run the streets. This started litter after litter to be born in the neighborhood. Gerri was feeding and caring for many of them herself until we came up with a plan and Happy Tails was able to fix and vaccinate every cat that was feeding at her house, over the next several months. Gerri has done an amazing job with these cats, turning her back porch into a cat sanctuary/spay/neuter recovery center of sorts. She even found homes for several cats. Ginger and Meg are two sisters from this group. They are two years old, spayed and vaccinated and looking for forever, indoor homes. They have very different personalities. Ginger is more the dominant type of cat, who loves to eat and would do anything for a treat. Meg is the quiet type and a total snuggle bug. Please contact us if interested in meeting Ginger or Meg.
It definitely takes the community working together, to take care of animals in need.
by Stephanie Cox, Founder - Happy Tails Pup Partners
Meg
Ginger
What’s Your Money Story?Part 3 Spending, Saving & Giving
by Ann Meiring, Financial Advisor - Citizens Wealth Management Group
We’ve talked about what a money story is, and we’ve talked about how to discover your money story. You may be thinking to yourself, “that was great information! Now what?” You may be excited about these new ideas and revelations about yourself and the way you think and feel about money, but maybe you don’t know what the next step is.
After doing this exercise with some clients, they still feel some confusion as to what behaviors are healthy or unhealthy regarding their finances. As we learned previously, money can trigger all kinds of emotions. Whether it’s a happy emotion when we spend, or an anxious emotion when we don’t have enough, money can be a puppeteer of our emotions if we aren’t careful. So, let’s dive into some behaviors surrounding money & how they can affect us.
To make it simple, there are three main categories of what to do with money: Spend, Save, and Give. There is a wide range of behavioral options in each of those categories.
SPENDING
I don’t know about you, but spending is admittedly one of my favorite categories of what to do with money. I love to shop, I love to go out to eat, travel, etc. All those things take money. I want to be clear; there is nothing inherently bad about shopping, eating out, and traveling. However, to take you back to my past, I was also a person who soothed themselves by spending money when I was sad. I would buy something I didn’t need, (and sometimes didn’t even really want) just
to get that little rush of dopamine. And it did make me feel better. For a while, at least. I felt better until I got the credit card bill, or the item I bought just sat somewhere in my home, unused. So, while there is nothing “bad” about any of those activities, you must evaluate if you are spending for the right reasons, and are you choosing a quick dopamine hit even though you know long term it’s not the best decision? These days, I still allow myself to spend money on things I love, but I take a more intentional approach to spending. Even if there is an item I really want, and may even need, the emotions that get jarred while making a financial decision must be paid attention to. If I feel too eager to make a purchase that isn’t an absolute necessity, I sleep on it. Take a day or two to make the final purchase decision and discuss it with someone-whether it’s a spouse, or close friend. When we slow down our decision making, enjoying the purchase is far more likely.
SAVING
Saving money wasn’t always my strongest suit. When I was young, I felt like I had all the time in the world to save money. Little did I realize that time moves fast. I talk to many people who had that same outlook on life, and now they are behind in their saving. The first thing I tell them is not to get stuck in the blame game. You can sit all day long and say what you could have or should have done. It doesn’t change the current situation. So, you can either stay stuck, or start where you are at. It’s always better to start, than to keep procrastinating.
There are many things to save for. First and foremost, having emergency savings is so important! Having emergency savings puts a cushion between us and a potential financial disaster. Life happens, and if you aren’t prepared for those little downturns, they will cause stress and turmoil. I had a client that had a furnace go out a couple years ago. Of course it was in the dead of winter. They did not have enough in emergency savings, so they ended up financing the purchase of a new furnace. It added $10,000 in new debt with a high interest rate to their household. Start your rainy day fund if you haven’t already. Because I assure you, it will rain.
Another extremely important event to save for is your retirement. There will come a day that you will no longer work. Whether by your choice, or not. Is saving for retirement daunting? It certainly can be. Don’t let something that scares you stop you from doing it. People are living longer, which means they are living in retirement longer. People also want to enjoy retirement in whatever way is important to them. Whatever dreams you have of what your life looks like after your career, you are going to need money to accomplish those. Long gone are the days when you worked for 30 years in a factory and retired with a great pension. It’s up to us to save enough to live on in our later years.
GIVING
Lastly, let’s talk about giving. The third and possibly the most fulfilling category of what to do with your money. We all give, whether its to a charity, or to our church, or to help our kids or grandkids. Giving is fun. It can make us feel like we have a purpose. Think about your goals for giving. If you want to give regularly to your church, what does that look
like for you? Is it a sum of money each week, and some of your time as well? One way I love to give is to pay for someone’s groceries. I think we all know that groceries can be expensive! Another creative way to give is to call a local school and see if there are any kids that need their lunch balance paid. Giving can be whatever you
want to make it. Make it meaningful to you, and it will be for someone else as well. Giving is simply a way to spread the good fortune that has been given to us!
These categories and examples are just tips of the iceberg of what you can do with your finances. Pick one that is important to you and get moving on that goal! And as always, if a more private conversation is needed, I am here!
Ann is a long time resident of Lima, and loves living in this community. She was a career changer in 2018 when she found her passion for helping people manage their wealth. Although Ann doesn’t exclusively serve women, her practice is female-focused, and her passion is creating a better experience for women in the financial industry. She loves to educate about finance, and has spoken for different groups in the community. You can catch her monthly events “Savvy Women Invest on Purpose” on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at The Met in Lima. On a personal note, Ann is married to Paul, and they have three amazing kiddos, two of whom are still at home & attend Shawnee High School. She loves being outdoors, reading, listening to music, and spending time with her family.
You can reach Ann at the downtown Lima branch of Citizens National Bank, by phone at 419-358-8060 ext 338, or at ann.meiring@lpl.com.
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