Shawnee Life - May 2022 by ShawneeLife

The Story of Us Happy Mothers’ Day From the Garman Family of Meadow View Drive May 2022

It’s Contest Time! Search the Ads - Find the Feather A $50 Gift Card to The Meeting Place on Market The feather is hidden in a business sponsor’s ad within this issue. Email the name of the business where you nd the feather and your contact information to Contest@ShawneeLife.com, to be entered in the drawing at the end of the month. One winner will be chosen from all entries and receive the following prize package, generously donated by our sponsors. A Free Seasonal Maintenance Service from Cleaves American Heating & Air Conditioning Co. (valued at $85) 2 • MAY SHAWNEE2022LIFE

HONORING FAMILY WISHES, THEN & NOW Trusted for over 75 years of funeral service Committed to providing our community with respectful, dignified, and professional services. We believe in giving back to the community that has supported us. Learn more about what we have to offer you and your loved ones at (419)www.bayliffandson.com645-4501 311 West Main Street Cridersville, Ohio 45806 Want to WIN a ‘sweet’ treat on your doorstep? The first 10 people to text us which house has a circle window wins! Text your name, address and the location of the window to 419-371-4633 to enter to win. BUYING SELLING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT BusyBRealty(419) 339-0600 | darheit@busybrealty.com MAY 2022 • 3 SHAWNEE LIFE

From Diane’s Desk... 4 • MAY SHAWNEE2022LIFE

Staying up late to work on magazine layout is definitely a labor of love. It must be entertaining to those driving by our house at night. They might hear dramatic de bates about word choice, layout decisions or cheerleading one another to get things done. They would see me double-checking that every ad is accounted for, making last minute changes to articles, organizing documents and photos into folders so Nick can place them perfectly into the magazine template, and lamenting that I can’t see the screen well because my reading glasses aren’t strong enough. My favorite part is watching Nick transform a word document into a beautiful article! They would see Nick utilizing his editing wizardry, working his graphic design magic, perfecting each and every pixel, and complaining incessantly about there being two spaces instead of one between sentences. His self-chosen title for this month is very fitting as Maker of Magic. Between the two of us, there are inappropriate jokes shared, a light (N ick’s Edit: HARD) punch on the arm after one of his many sarcastic or brutally honest remarks, followed by a gentle kiss, and a few peanut M&Ms being eaten to stay awake. Working side-by-side for so many hours has strengthened our relationship with one another. I can actually feel myself improving a variety of skills as I work with the magazine and that is a fascinating experience. Connecting with members of our community enhances the enjoyment of my day-to-day life. My gratefulness is to you, for show ing interest in building the Shawnee Life community by reading and interacting with the content and businesses in this magazine.

A community is not something that is tangible. It is a feeling that members have of belonging and that they matter to one another as well as to the group. Even though some will think it is ridiculous that something like a magazine can draw us closer together, I know it is possible, because I live it every day through each of you!

Learning more about our Shawnee community by working on this magazine doesn’t feel like a job…it is enlightening. The more I find out, the more I want to know. I hope this is the case for you as our reader as well. I want you to look forward to reading our pages every month and appreciate something new about the people and the area that we share together.

MAY 2022 • 5 SHAWNEE LIFE

Tisha Amazing Achievers

Michael McCormick Financial Focus

This can’t be the story of us without YOU. Shawnee Life Magazine is a unique vehicle because it allows our readers AND our local business owners to tell their stories. We rely on contributors to fuel the content and provide stories about what motivates them and connects us all together. Please don’t hesitate to submit your ideas, photos and stories to us, we want to work with you. In-fact, you’ve already got the job, there’s no experience necessary and we have writers in Middle School, Retirees and ev erywhere in-between. We grow as a community when we share with others. We are grateful to the advertising sponsors that make it possible to create, print and mail our magazine to all of our readers each month. We have also taken a bold step and increased circulation by 66%, but we felt the extra costs are a risk worth taking to grow Shawnee Life Magazine’s reach into more neighborhoods. This continues our mission of building more bridges of friendship and community.

Barnes Savvy Spaces Julie Lundin Know Your Neighbor Nicole Davis Welcome Wagon / Mercy Matters Zoe Smith

The Story of Us MEET THE TRIBE Diane Schoonover Publisher Michael Ayers Photographer Nick Schoonover Maker of Magic Janine Douglass DISH-cussions Anca DeifendeiferQin Making a Mark DamschrodeGeorgiannar Precious Pets Mikie Ricker Ad Strategist Molly Ellerbrock Graphic Designer

Thank you for joining us in the Shawnee Life - what a beautiful life it is!

ArticlesFeatured

Everyone loves to share stories about their pets. Find out how many people tend to treat them like another member of the family! Making a Mark Learn about a non-profit organization in our area and the people that truly make a difference in our community.

6 • MAY SHAWNEE2022LIFE

DISH-cussions

What’s cooking in Shawnee? This is where you will discover a delicious recipe and the story behind the dish and the chef! Savvy Spaces Inspiration abounds as we highlight inte rior design ideas, curb appeal strategies, and explain how to make your house feel like a home. Amazing Achievers Amazing students are all around us. Our Junior Writer shares a story about a successful student or athlete in the local schools. Sponsor Spotlight Our sponsors also have the opportunity to share who they are, how their businesses work and help contribute to our commu nity.

The Joys of Toys Mercy Matters We value and highlight Mercy and their health care professionals that dedicate their lives to caring for others and the community! Find the Feather Every month we hide the golden Shawnee Life feather in one ad. Find it, email us, and get entered in a drawing for something awesome!

Every month we showcase a family that lives in Shawnee to help you connect with others around you! Precious Pets

Seasonal Features Celebrating our graduates, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day love stories, Christmas wishes, traditions, etc. WHAT IDEAS DO YOU HAVE? This is The Story of Us, so we would love to hear your ideas.

Know Your Neighbor

Email: Ideas@ShawneeLife.com Show off your newest toy or passion! A new Jeep, Lego build, amazing guitar or a tech gadget? Show it off here and share why it means the world to you.

Locate the Logo Occasionally our business sponsors want our readers to find their logo. If you do, you will be entered to win a prize from that business! Financial Focus Securities, Real Estate, Tax Planning. We bring the sharpest minds with their practi cal advice of how to strategically invest your capital to meet your family goals.

FOUNDATIONSHabitatCancerWestrichTracy’sAPPLIANCESAppliances(419)223-4786Furniture&Appliances(419)695-6045CANCERCARE/ONCOLOGYCareofWestCentralOhio(419)221-2273DONATIONPICKUPforHumanityLimaReStore(419)222-4937EDUCATIONLimaCentralCatholicHighSchool(419)222-4276ELECTRICALCONTRACTORBrunkElectric(419)812-2821FOOD&DRINKPurpleFeetWineBoutique(567)940-9944&WATERPROOOFINGTheBasementDoctor(419)229-5800FUNERALHOME Bayliff & Son (419) WestrichTracy’sFURNITURE645-4501Appliances(419)223-4786Furniture&Appliances(419)695-6045 MercyHEALTHCAREHealth–St. Rita’s (419) HeatingCleavesHEATING227-3361&AIRAmerican&AirConditioning(419)227-4328WashamPlumbingHeating&Air(419)339-0729INSURANCEBeeryInsuranceServices(419)228-4000INTERIORDESIGNDeborah’sInteriors(419)991-4400JEWELERVonsDiamonds&Jewelry(419)227-5616PETMEMORIALSERVICES Bayliff & Son (419) PROMOTIONALWashamPHOTOGRAPHY645-4501TheAyers,Inc.(419)222-9377PLUMBINGPlumbingHeating&Air(419)339-0729PRODUCTS & PRINTING SERVICES ProForma Add-A-Line (419) 224-8747 These local businesses are proud to serve our community and sponsor Shawnee Life magazine. Their contribu tions make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and let them know that you saw them in Shawnee Life magazine. Neighborhood SponsorIndexREALTORSBusyBRealty(419)339-0600CowanRealtors(419)222-1212RETIREMENTCOMMUNITYBurton’sRidgeAssistedLiving(419)228-8412PrimroseRetirementCommunity(419)224-1200SECURITYLimaSecurity,Inc.(419)222-1250SOCIALMEDIAMARKETINGProFormaAdd-A-Line(419)224-8747SKILLEDNURSING&REHABShawneeManor(419)999-2055TRANSPORTATION/LIMOS/PARTYBUSLuckyLimo,LLC(419)236-3964UNHOLSTERY&WINDOWTREATMENTSDeborah’sInteriors(419)991-4400WEDDINGSTheAyers,Inc.(419)222-9377LuckyLimo,LLC(419)236-3964ProFormaAdd-A-Line(419)224-8747 MAY 2022 • 7 SHAWNEE LIFE

Meet the family Garman NeighborYourKnow 8 • MAY SHAWNEE2022LIFE

Brian and Lindsey moved to Shawnee in December 2018. Lind sey is a sixth-grade math and social studies teacher at Shawnee Middle School. They moved to Meadow View Drive because Lindsey wanted to be closer to work and she also wanted their future children to attend Shawnee Schools. Brian works for the Cincinnati Reds as the pitching coach for the Dayton Dragons, their minor league team. In ad dition, Brian is involved with coaching youth baseball players from all over the area during the off-season. Brian and Lindsey met during their freshman year at the Uni versity of Cincinnati. Lindsey is from Cincinnati and Brian is from Wapakoneta. Upon gradua tion, they decided to move back to this area to work and eventu ally raise their family. They are also looking forward to being an active part of Shawnee. “We are looking for programs to get involved in to help create a sense of community in Shawnee,” expressed Brian. The Garmans love their neighborhood! It is a great place for their Boxer, Miley, to run and play. Lindsey said, “We love how quiet our neighborhood is! We have wonderful neighbors who are like family and Miley has a best friend, Charlie, next door that she plays with almost daily. We are excited for Palmer to grow up in this neighborhood!” Brian, Lindsey, and Miley also enjoy the woods in their backyard for its privacy as well as the deer and wild turkeys that are common visitors. Both Brian and Lindsey enjoy traveling. Some of their favorite destinations have been the beaches in Destin, Florida, and going to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Brian played minor league baseball for the Brewers in Appleton, Wis consin so it is always fun for them to go back and visit the people they met in Appleton. Baseball spring training in Scottsdale, Arizona is also a favorite destination for Brian and Lindsey every year. The Garman’s love attending Garth Brooks concerts and have traveled to see his concerts in many different cities. During their free time youwill find the Garmans watch ing baseball games, playing with Miley in their yard, and spending time with family and friends. Brian loves to hunt, fish, and grill. He is known for making a mean griddle breakfast on their Blackstone, as well as some pretty fabulous steaks! Lindsey enjoys shopping, playing with Miley, spending time at the beach, and going to baseball games in the summer.

MAY 2022 • 9 SHAWNEE LIFE

Miss Palmer Jaymes has been in their lives for almost two months, as of this May 2022 issue of Shawnee Life Magazine. Lindsey and Brian are most surprised about how much they love her and how much she has changed their lives in the best way possible. “We have waited over four years for her and cannot believe that she is finally here!” Lindsey beamed. Of course, the lack of sleep has been difficult, but Brian and Lindsey thoroughly enjoy watching each-other as first-time parents. Brian expressed, “My favorite thing has been watching Lindsey get to be a mother.” Now that Palmer has arrived, Brian and Lindsey are looking forward to creating a lot of new memories and traditions on Meadow View Drive and within the Shawnee community!

by Julie Lundin Meet Brian and Lindsey Garman of Meadow View Drive. This spring has brought big changes to their lives! This excited couple welcomed their daughter and first child, Palmer Jaymes, on March 21st and baseball season is almost in full swing…a very busy time for the Garman household!

Spirituality Opportunity SAmbition ervice Leadership Student Well being Our Core Values Set Us Apart LIMA CENTRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL W W W L C C H S E D U • 4 1 9 2 2 2 4 2 7 6 Chair Exercise Class Every Wednesday – 10:00 am Presented by Midwest Rehab with focus on balance, range of motion and building strength. Day Trip to MVP Dairy Thursday, May 12th – 8:30 am to 3:30 pm Join us for a bus trip to visit the MVP Dairy in Celina, Ohio! Shuttle tour of the barns and see the cows being milked in the state-of-the-art milking carousel. Tour is free, lunch at your cost. Reserve your spot by Tuesday, May 10 th Quilt Show Tuesday, May 17th – 2:00 pm Join us in the Primrose Wellness Center for a display of quilts and discussion by local quilter, Betty Fiser. Refreshments will be served. 3500 W Elm Street, Lima, OH Please RSVP to Cortney at (419) 233 3338 and come see why our residents say… Primrose Health Fair Thursday, May 19th – 2:00-4:00 pm Held outdoors, our health fair will feature booths offering health screenings and tests as well as fair food trucks and prizes! Retired Teachers Luncheon Tuesday, June 2nd – 11:30 am Join us for lunch and fellowship with local area retired teachers. Please make your reservation by Monday, May 30th Parkinson’s Support Group Wednesday, June 8th – 2:00 pm Presented by Ohio Living. Please let us know you are able to attend by Monday, June 6th Our events are designed for individuals 55+ You’re Invited! Want to experience what life would be like at Primrose Retirement Community? Check out these events designed specifically for future residents! It’s time to start thinking about Spring Cleaning! Shop our selection of appliances.419-223-4786 @tracysapplianceslima tracysapplianceslima.com 4064 Elida Road, Lima, OH 45807 SHOP SMART. SHOP LOCAL. SHOP rebatesFactoryareavailable! Check us out on Facebook! • APPLIANCES • MATTRESSES • DELIVERY • FINANCING • SERVICES & PARTS • INSTALLATION 10 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

SelectionSeasonalCelebrate your Graduate Do you know a graduate that deserves a shout-out? Submissions due by MAY 11th • A photo of the graduate (print quality high-resolution 300 ppi or higher) • School • Degree/certificate along with any special recognitions • Career aspiration • A message of up to 50 words for or about the graduate Cost: $35 to have a photo and details about the graduate printed in the June issue of Shawnee Life Magazine Add $10 for each additional copy of the magazine. Part of the proceeds will benefit a non-profit organization highlighted in our Making a Mark section!Submit your Grad today https://ShawneeLife.com/Grads2022at MAY 2022 • 11 SHAWNEE LIFE

May is Mental HeathAwareness Month! 12 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

PROFESSIONAL TRAININGS: For businesses, non-profits, churches, school staff, and other mental health professionals on topics such as Resilient Kids & Teens, Grief, Stress, Relationships, Anxiety, De pression, Conflict, etc.

SCHOOL PROGRAMS: Professional development trainings for school staff, equipping them with skills to use both personally and as they seek to help stu dents. The Resilient Kids & Teens school program includes as semblies, classroom lessons and small groups for students to proactively equip them with practi cal tools to manage stress, anxiety and depression, and navi gate healthy interac tions with friends.

Cornerstone of Hope

In response to a desperate deficit of mental health services for our area, Cornerstone of Hope Lima opened in September of 2014. Doug and Heather Bell of Amanda Lakes graciously donated office space to us initially, then as we continued to grow to serve over 100 clients per week, they eventu ally made it possible for us to purchase the entire building at a rate we could afford. Their incredible generosity enabled us to impact our community with services that lead to hope!! Doug commented that, “The journey was multifacet ed, involved many people and developed over a long period of time. This story is possible because God interacts with His Believers to direct their paths.”

by Kari ExecutiveTaylorDirector, Cornerstone of Hope

COUNSELING: Individual, marriage and family counseling sessions SUPPORT GROUPS: Battling Big Emotions kids’ group and summer camp, Kids Conquering Anxi ety, Resilient Teens, Women’s Managing Stress & Anxiety, Adult Grief Support, Men of Integrity, and Healthy Relationships

MarkaMaking

We now have 13 counselors on staff and two support staff between our Lima office location as well as an office in the Bluffton area, and serve over 130 clients per week, not counting community groups, trainings, or workshops! Cornerstone of Hope is a faith-based, non-profit counseling organization that provides compas sionate, professional, and affordable support, education, and hope for children, teens and adults in the Greater Lima Area. Cornerstone accomplishes this through individual counseling, support groups, workshops, trainings, school programs and commu nity events.

WORKSHOPS: Family Equipping Workshop (for families with kids ages 12 and under), Courageous Parenting Workshop, and Chronic Stress Hope & Resilience Workshop

- “Fall Festival of Hope” is a unique and special evening of rustic sophistication including delicious food tastings and live entertainment at the beautiful Black Bird Farm. - “Hope Tea & Chocolate” is in the spring and is a memorable event for women and girls of all ages and includes a delicious brunch, chocolate table of desserts, tea tasting, women’s boutique and more!

VOLUNTEER! We are currently looking for volunteers to help with cleaning our building, do yard work, plan for events, prepare materials for groups or trainings, etc. If interested, you can fill out a Volunteer Application online at cornerstoneofhopelima.org, under Services.

3) OUR CULTURE - We have a truly incredible team of counselors and support staff that enjoy working together, believe the best in each other, grow from each other and work as a team to ensure that the services we provide are done with compassionate professionalism and great excellence! FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

DONATE! Financial Donations of any kind can be made on our website cornerstoneofhopelima.org by clicking the Donate button.

What makes Cornerstone of Hope unique?

2) EQUIPPERS - Any individual or group counseling, workshop, training, or event is intentionally prepared with the question, “How can we best equip them so that they can go from here and apply what they are learning to increase their hope, healing, or impact?”

- Mental Health Board of Allen, Auglaize and Hardin Counties: Cornerstone has an excellent relationship and contract with the mental health board .

1) FAITH-BASED – Faith is integrated into our profes sional counseling services, however this is never forced on anyone, and we do serve those who do not wish to discuss faith and treat them with just as much respect and compassion.

- Outside Payers and Sponsorships: We accept contributions from local churches, businesses and indi -viduals.EAP:Cornerstone is part of the ENI Provider Net work and has been able to work with some Employee Assistance Program providers to offer financially covered sessions for clients. If you or anyone you know are in need of mental health services, please contact us at 419-581-9138. To join our email list and stay informed about up coming Cornerstone events, please contact micah.moore@cornerstoneofhope.org.

MAY 2022 • 13 SHAWNEE LIFE

BECOME A TEAM HOPE FINANCIAL PARTNER! We are looking for Team Hope fi nancial partners who are willing to give monthly or yearly to enable children, teens, and adults to receive excellent and affordable mental health care. How can you support our mission?

Ultimately, we believe that when individuals in need of mental health services contribute something finan cially to their care, they gain more confidence and are more motivated to work toward their goals. We seek to collaborate with all these generous resources listed to ensure that finances will not be a hindrance, while working with the client to see what they can contribute themselves. We have several options to help pay for services: - Gift of Hope Fund: This is a fund that is fueled by our popular, annual Hope Tea & Chocolate women’s -event.United Way of Greater Lima: Cornerstone has received a 3-year grant from United Way.

Kayla Latsha’s son attended the week-long summer camp for Battling Big Emotions and had this to say: “We still use a lot of the language and tools they taught him. They send home good explanations of how to deal with certain scenarios. They also used Legos, which he obviously loves, to help kids describe their emotions and then process through them.”

Haley Teodosio said she is “truly honored to serve at Cornerstone of Hope. As a counselor, being able to help clients understand and make practical steps towards mental and emotional wellness, while also having the opportunity to come alongside them on their spiritual journey is such a beautiful thing. To see the “aha!” moments and practical changes take place is so exciting! Every single person on our staff is amazing and really, deeply cares about our clients, which makes it such an encouraging and uplifting work environment as well!”

14 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

A woman who attends counseling sessions had this to say: “I really appreciate that I can get counseling from someone who shares the same faith and beliefs that I have. I have found that by inviting God into my coun seling space, I have been able to work through and heal from a lot of trauma that I wasn’t able to do when I was going to a traditional counselor. My therapist also specializes in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensi tization and Reprocessing) which has been a helpful adjunct to talk therapy. My counselor is very knowl edgeable, and everyone I have met at Cornerstone of Hope is very friendly and professional.”

MarkaMaking withahadEmotionsterNikkiwhileemotionslarykidsgagesBattlingEndorsementsEarnestBigEmotionsenkidswithLEGOssolearntoolsandvocabutoexpressandmanageinhealthywaysbeingcreative.NoceraGross’daughattendedtheBattlingBigsupportgroupandthistoshare:“WehadreallypositiveexperiencetheBattlingBigEmotionsclassatCornerstone of Hope. Scarlet looked forward to going every week and was excited to tell me about what she made using Legos during each class. She walked away with vi sual, verbal and physical tools to process the spectrum of emotions we all have and had so much fun doing it. As parents, we all want to raise healthy, happy, resilient kids and this class begins to give them the tools and knowledge to navigate their feelings. The class also culminated with a session just for parents that went over everything our kids were learning and ways we could keep the conversations going at home. I plan to send my son through this class as well and think any child would benefit from the skills it teaches them in a fun and open environment. Our community is lucky to have such a great resource for families at Cornerstone of Hope.”

The family of Busy B Realty believes in our community and thus gets engaged in the community. Once you are a client, buyer, seller, investor, or tenant of Busy B you are part of their family. Dawn Arheit and Busy B Realty strive to be available for all aspects of your Real Estate needs.

Busy B Realty sponsors numerous area high school sport ing events from soccer at Elida, to Basketball and softball at Lima Senior. They also have supported school choirs and bands in the area. They realize the future is in the hands of future generations They do not stop there. Busy B also supports the Girl Scouts by giving donations and also by donating their time in educating many troops on bee-keeping and how honeybees are essential to the community and the food chain. Additionally, they support our local FFA clubs and Allen County 4H clubs. Busy B Realty was named as a Friend of 4H for 2022 due to their involvement and support of local 4H clubs and 4H kids. Donating funds by Diane Schoonover

Busy B works with the elderly through speaking engage ments at nursing homes. They also contribute to the fine arts locally with donations to the Lima Symphony Orches tra, and the Lima Area Concert Band.

Busy B Realty is not only part of the community, but they also strive to give back to the community in all they do. Something that most people may not notice unless they are told, is that over 80% of the advertising Busy B Realty does is through sponsorships to other community events. Busy B has always strived to promote their company in ways that help others as well.

SpotlightSponsor

Homes prices are at an all-time high and the inventory is still very low. It is a great time to list a home to get top dollar for your property. Many homes are getting mul tiple offers and selling very quickly. If you are thinking of purchasing a home in this market Dawn suggests being pre-approved before looking and be prepared to make an offer the minute you find what you are looking for as it may sell quickly.

MAY 2022 • 15 SHAWNEE LIFE

toward community speaking events for local area pre schools, homeschool groups, local dance studios, Lima Lady Legends and Allen County Conservation, are other examples of how they give back to our community.

Amy Cover, a Jeep fanatic herself, has had her bright orange Jeep Gladiator since March of 2020. Nicknamed Phil after a Super Bowl commercial, it was a gift from Mrs. Cover’s husband for her forty-fifth birthday. Many ad ditions to the Jeep have made it easy to distin guish from others, including orange-and-black seat covers and new Rubicon tires.

“All of these changes make it unique and easy to pick out in a parking lot!” Mrs. Cover says.

ToysofJoysThe

Owning a Jeep can give you more than just transportation. According to many Jeep own ers, it’s an experience, and the community and friends you make along the way can make Jeep ownership very special. “J” Ellis of Amanda Lakes, Amy Cover on Spencer ville Road, Leslie Olsson of Monticello, and Josh Laird of Indianbrook are all devoted Jeep owners and enthusiasts.

Of course, in the summertime, the doors and roof go off and the family goes in! The entire Cover family loves taking long rides in Phil when the weather is just right. Mrs. Cover thinks of it as her four-wheeled motorcycle. She had always wanted a Jeep, but never thought she would actually get one. Now, she is a proud member of the Grand Lake Jeep Group and has taken part in many Jeep cruis es!

It’s a

The Batmobile has been on many off-roading adventures, including one in West Virginia! It is also a great hit with the Ellis kids, es pecially when summer rolls in and the doors come off!

Thing! 16 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

Dr. Ellis has made many modifications to his Jeep including a new hood, tires, and bumper.

Proving that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, Mr. Ellis’ father was also a Jeep lover. His father took his Jeeps into many fields and forests, and always logged hun by Georgie Damschroder, Junior Writer dreds of thousands of miles before agreeing to trade them.

Dr. Ellis has had his 2012 Jeep Wrangler for nine years. His kids lovingly nicknamed it “Batmobile”, and the name stuck ever since.

“Driving my Jeep now still makes me feel a little closer to my dad, even though he has passed,” says Dr. Ellis.

Many Jeep enthusiasts carry around small rubber ducks with an at tached note that they will place on Jeeps that catch their eye.

“They are just fun to pass along and share the love of Jeep ownership,” Mrs. Olsson says. There are even Facebook groups dedicated to the art of Jeep ducking with thousands of members and posts of colorful little ducks on the hood of a Jeep. Many fun memories are made and shared in the seat of a Jeep, and many families love the friends, experience, and joy owning a Jeep has given them!

MAY 2022 • 17 SHAWNEE LIFE

Josh Laird has had his 2010 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, “Rubi”, for seven years. Mr. Laird actually bought Rubi in Washington D.C. from an Oklahoman House Representative! He was able to meet many important people in the buying process, and even signed the final pa perwork in the basement of the Rayburn Office on Capitol Hill. “Not many people can say they’ve had that type of experience buying a car!” Mr. Laird exclaimed. Mr. Laird hopes to take Rubi off-roading and earn “Jeep badges,” which are badges one can earn by taking the Jeep on certain trails the company has deemed worthy of the reward and are typically placed on the front fender of the Jeep. The Laird family loves taking rides in Rubi, especially son Gavin Laird, who loves the car almost as much as his father. As usual, summer is the prime time for roofless Jeep rides!

Lesile Olsson has had her Jeep Wrangler for a year, though this is her fourth one! The Jeep came exactly how Mrs. Olsson had wanted it, leaving little room for modifications. The entire Olsson family adores taking rides across the United States in the Jeep. The car has loy ally transported the family to Colorado, up the Rocky Mountains, and along Florida’s beach es, leaving behind tire tracks and memories for years to come. Even the furriest member of the family, Catcher the dog, takes part in the Jeep ardency! Besides, after a long day of swimming on the beach, what better way to get dry than to stick your head out of a doorless Jeep?

All four of these Jeep drivers and many more partake in a special “Jeep Wave”. The rule of thumb in Jeep ownership is that when you see another avowed owner on the road, you are obliged to wave at them. Ellis, Cover, Olsson, and Laird all love the special community that the wave seems to build. “Once, my wife borrowed my Jeep for a few days and couldn’t figure out why everyone was waving to her!” Dr. Ellis recalls. Another fun Jeep custom is known as “Jeep ducking.”

Whether it’s tackling a serious health issue or improving your overall well-being, we’re committed to helping you stay healthy and strong. Our doctors and health care professionals are passionate about improving your overall health with personalized health care solutions so you can be there for what matters most. Visit mercy.com to find a location and connect with a primary care provider today.

18 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

15226LIMADV

FOR

World-class health care in your neighborhood

HEALTH

HEALTH CARE FOR THE UNIVERSE OF YOU 15226LIMADV

Redyear!

Door Gala Annual Fundraising Event by Nicole Davis

Cocktail Attire SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: Red Door of Mercy Presenting Sponsor $25,000 Red Door of Mercy Healing Sponsor $15,000 Red Door of Hope Sponsor $10,000 Red Door of Access Sponsor $5,000 Red Door of Compassion Sponsor $2,500 To secure a sponsorship today, contact the Mercy Health Foundation Greater Lima at 419-226-9113. 2022

Mercy Health is pleased to invite you to join them on June 9th for the third annual Red Door Gala fundraiser. The Red Door Gala event was launched in 2018 to celebrate their centennial and raised charitable dollars to support Mercy Health’s commitment to addressing our community’s most pressing needs. Through the Mercy Health Foundation, the event this year will support neuroscience, stroke care, and in patient rehabilitation services. Mercy Health is investing in advancing their neuroscience center to provide high acuity care for our community, allowing it to become a comprehensive neuroscience center. Through these advances they are reducing transport out of town, which enables them to provide lifesaving care right here in Lima. For over 100 years, St. Rita’s has served the greater Lima community. Their healing ministry has continued to advance medical care by introducing advanced technology and respond ing to emerging treatment needs. Their driving commitment has always been to provide the best care - mind, body, and spirit - for all who come to them. Thank you for believing in Mercy Health St. Rita’s and investing in their mission of mercy as they continue to strengthen the health of our community. We hope to see you at the fundrais ing event of the

JUNE 9, 2022 Veterans Memorial Civic & Convention Center 7 Town Square, Lima, OH 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Cocktails, Heavy Hors d’oeuvres and Silent Auction To view the silent auctions items, visit Reddoorgala.givesmart.com. 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Program, Mission Support Hand Raise, and Surprise Entertainment RSVP by May 27 Space is limited. Individual tickets of $250 each are available. Please respond promptly by completing the enclosed RSVP card or by visiting Reddoorgala.givesmart.com.

13376FOUENV (3-22) MAY

HeroesCareHealth&MattersMercy

• 19 SHAWNEE LIFE

An accessible home, one that has incorporated uni versal design, can be a desirable selling point for a home. The value increases by allowing people to age in place in the home they know and love. There are a number of resources available to you when incor porating aging in place or universal design in your remodel or new build. Interior designers, architects, AARP, United Disabilities Service and Rural Health Information Hub are great resources to consult. In our next article we are going to walk through the design process of a major kitchen renovation. See you next month. by Tisha Barnes

Aging in Place

In our last article we talked about space adaptation and the importance of form and function of the many spaces throughout our homes. This month we are going to discuss how important universal design is when we are building a new home or remodeling an existing space. Universal design incorporates space planning with a thought about the changing needs as we age or face a disability. One of the most influential lessons I had in college was spending half a day in a wheelchair and the other half in glasses that impaired my vision. This exercise helped me understand the importance of designing spaces for a wide range of people regardless of age, size, or disability status. Until you are faced with a disability or inevitable aging related challenge, one does not always think about the impact of our physi cal environment. Universal space planning can be incorporated into any style of design in a way that is both beautiful and functional for the many stages of Inlife.the bathroom remodel project, you can see many elements of universal design. A curbless shower with a wide entry and grab bars have been installed around the shower. The vanity is open below the sink, making it easier for those that are wheelchair bound to utilize the sink and vanity space. The space is also very bright with both natural and task light ing to aid those with fading eyesight. A few other elements that were incorporated into the design are a comfort-height toilet and pocket doors with wide en tries. While all these elements are incorporated for a couple that is aging in place, wanting to stay as long as they can in their home of many years, these design touches are just as beautiful and useful for people in any stage of their life.

SpacesSavvy

PalmerKarenbyphoto–DesignsChapmanJennifer

20 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

by Nick Wheeler of Deborah’s InteriorsOne of my favorite place’s in our home is our custom kitchen. We built our house mostly ourselves and after much hard work and dedication, we cannot be more pleased with the end result. A well thought out kitchen is crucial to how we live our everyday lives! From the cabinet placement, to picking out the countertops, adding a custom pot filler, to the backsplash and much more! The kitchen is where we spend most of our time when we get a break from our hectic lives and hav ing an organized kitchen makes cooking and baking much more efficient. We love hosting parties, cooking fancy dinners, and most of all spending time with our son. One of my favorite things when I designed our kitchen, was installing the microwave in the pantry. This allowed for more cabinet and counter space, and best of all not having to look at it! I love the glass tile backsplash we recently installed. It brightens the room up and really fin ishes off the look of the whole space. It’s the little things that make a big difference. Our kitchen is much more than just a kitchen to us, it’s memories made in it we will cherish forever. OH 45805 Barb Cooley of Monticello - Our hearth room is one of our favorite rooms in our home. The décor style is comfortable, warm and earthy with a cozy fireplace and a black walnut table created by our son. When family and friends are paying a visit, it is a welcoming space for conversation whether it’s with a great cup of coffee in the morning or an early evening cocktail. A room enjoyed all year round.

to be

MAY 2022 • 21 SHAWNEE LIFE

419-991-4400 CALL TODAY TO CREATE A LOOK YOU'LL LOVE! SPECIALIZING IN WINDOW TREATMENTS, CUSTOM FURNITURE & INTERIOR DESIGN OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE! Favorite Spaces Request for Submissions Please continue to send us photos of your favor ite spaces along with an explanation to Ideas@ShawneeLife.com. by

DEBORAHSINTERIORS.COM 1747 ALLENTOWN ROAD, LIMA,

Regardless, if you are considering a 15 or 30 yearterm the buyers credit rating (FICO score) dramati cally influences the interest rate offered. Get those blemishes cleaned up before you go mortgage shop ping so there aren’t any surprises.

Mortgage rates continue to be historicallylow considering 16% to 18% occured in the ‘70s

While mortgage rates may be influenced by the Fed, the reality is mortgage rates are driven by the mar ket. If one bank can charge more (because people are expecting it) others will start to raise their rates as well. Mortgage rates continue to be historically low considering 16% to 18% occured in the ‘70s. It’s possible that rates will decrease again but buy ers shouldn’t rely on that as a possibility. Look for fixed rates not ARMs. Shop around. Your bank will likely not have the most competitive rates. Get preapproved before you go shopping and lock-in a fixed rate as early in the process as possible.

Going, going, gone!

Michael McCormick is the Principle of Financial Clarity Group, Inc. an Ohio CPA and Investment Advisor Representative, with over 20 years experience. A graduate of the University of Cincinnati’s College of Busi ness Administration and a 1988 graduate of Lima Central Catholic. He can be reached at 513-488-1121 or mike@financialclaritygroup.com and www.financialclaritygroup.com

Not long ago a home buyer could bid on their dream home (or maybe the first runner-up) and possibly get a counter offer. They could also borrow the major ity of the money for thirty years and expect to pay less than 4% interest. Now, buyers are only likely to get an offer accepted somewhere between the fifth and twenty fifth house they’ve considered if they use conventional financing, require no inspection, and sometimes sight unseen. The interest rate they will be offered will be approaching or exceed 6.5% (if they have better than average credit). What a difference a couple percentage points make in home affordability and the cost of carrying the debt. When you consider that each $100,000 borrowed over thirty years will now cost an extra $2,000 or more per year, some will need to either stay put, bring more cash to closing, or look for a different home. If a buyer is able to commit to a 15 year mort gage it could save as much as a half percentage point and thousands over the term of the loan.

For those who have an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM), or have balloon mortgages start shopping for a fixed rate. Don’t wait for the adjustment to happen because it’s possible that the increase in your month ly payment could disrupt your budget. For those fortunate to have locked in lower rates you may want to check to see if the loan is assumable in case you decide to sell. It may make your property just a little more valuable to a potential buyer. Going, going, gone – We may never see mortgage rates as low as they are right now. Low rates, get ‘em while their hot…

by Michael McCormick, CPA

FocusFinancial 22 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

Our readers could be looking at your ad RIGHT NOW, learning about your business then calling you for help and giving you their money; all for less than half the cost of a postage stamp per home. Remember this while waiting for your phone to ring... or email: ads@ShawneeLife.com Look!../\ MAY 2022 • 23 SHAWNEE LIFE

SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING CAN BE A LOT OF WORK, BUT IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BREAK THE BANK 24 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

Ingredients and Directions: Brown 1 lb of 90% or higher lean ground beef or lean ground turkey with ½ of a diced onion of choice, a couple dashes of garlic, sea salt, pepper, Italian seasoning (taste to liking). Add 1 can of fire-roasted tomatoes, 2-3 diced or chunked green, yellow and/or orange peppers, and an extra-large can, or 4 regular cans of tomato Bringsauce.toaboil. Add 2 cups of beef or vegetable Thenbroth.add 1 cup brown or white rice and 1 cup Orzo pasta (or another cup of brown or white Ifrice).cooking on the stove top, turn burner to low and let sit for 20-30 minutes.

If using a crockpot, add all ingredients after meat is browned and let cook for 2-4 hours on medium Ameesetting.discovered early on that this savory soup is a culinary-clever way to serve “stuffed peppers” to kids in a way that they’ll even eat the peppers, not just the stuffing! Ladle helpings into large soup bowls, topped with shredded mozzarella and a few Caesar salad croutons. Voila! by Janine Douglass

DISH-cussions MAY 2022 • 25 SHAWNEE LIFE

• Daughter, Sydnee, a senior at The Ohio State University studying Business and Mar•ketingSon, Joey, sophomore at Wapakoneta City Schools and avid football athlete

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: on the stove top, 30 minutes, or in a crockpot 2-4 hours

Perfect for cooler days or nights, but even ideal for warmer weather as farmers’ markets featur ing fresh produce become more plentiful, Stuffed Green Pepper Soup from the Truesdale’s Tolowa Trail kitchen hits the spot. Amee is a banker and also works with Lima’s Institute for Orthopedic Surgery and the Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio, while her husband, Todd is with Shawnee Township’s Fire Department. They have lived in Indianbrook for 16 years, and proudly introduce their family:•Son, Nick and Shelby Truesdale, Wapakoneta City School teachers and coaches for football and cheerleading respectively, along with grandchildren Ellie and JJ

Join the Truesdales for Stuffed Green Pepper Soup

ter the loss of a previous boxer, Ellie, Elsa was adopted from a dog breeder.

Elsa adores the snow, which is a very un common trait of the boxer breed. She will spend hours racing after snowmobiles and four-wheelers when she goes to the Upper Peninsula and loves hiking in Michigan! De It’d be hard to find someone who hasn’t heard of Peter Pan. The boy who refused to grow up seemed to be a part of everyone’s childhood, despite the fact he never truly ex isted. However, Peter does have a more bona fide equivalent, though it may not be what you’d expect. Huge, slobbering bundles of fluff who simply love life: boxers. These dogs are known as “Peter Pan Dogs,” due to their seeming inability to grow up. Their puppylike attitudes and energy cause them to have one of the longest puppyhoods of any dog, officially mature at three years old. That’s like a human maturing at 30 (we all know someone like that). One of these whimsical dogs lives right in our Shawnee community. Elsa is a twoyear-old fawn boxer who lives with Shawnee Middle School teacher, Ms. Julie Lundin on Kiowa Trail, named after a beloved aunt. Af

PetsPrecious by Georgie Damschroder, Junior Writer

Woman’s Best Friend 26 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

“She definitely came into my life for a reason”

spite all these places Elsa loves to go, she is not very fond of the car rides along the way.

Elsa has stayed true to her role as “woman’s best friend” after Julie lost her boyfriend, and she has been her closest companion ever since. “She definitely came into my life for a reason,” Julie says. Elsa loves to play fetch and has many toys, her favorite being a ball they call the Holy Roller. She also has a snubnosed dog theBesidesClementinefriend,thepug!dominatingcouches,giving love and affection is what Elsa does best. She is a caring and loyal “pupper”, one whose energy and love for life are traits that even Peter Pan would envy!

MAY 2022 • 27 SHAWNEE LIFE

Churches, social service groups and volunteers are welcome to spend time with families at the new facilWestsideity.

UMC Pastor Dan Lee, Leadership Team Lead: Sally Leidy, Family Promise Executive Director: Hellen Douglas

Family Promise of Lima-Allen County finally has a static site! Westside United Methodist Church at 604 Gloria Avenue, Suite B, in Lima is now leasing part of their big, beautiful building to this very deserving non-profit organization. “Thanks to so many com munity members that came together, we get to make this dream a reality,” said Hellen Douglas, Executive Director of Family Promise.

The biggest difference is Family Promise’s homeless support program will now be at a more permanent location. The families will feel more stable by stay ing at one site, rather than staying at the Day Center during the day and traveling to the host church of the week for evening and weekend accommodations. Local churches and other organizations are now encouraged to come to them. With the new building, six families will now be able to each have a private room, instead of the previous set-up which only had room for two families that had to share a space. This new arrangement will help do away with the waiting list or drastically reduce it. For the last 14 years, Family Promise has been serv ing families in need, but changes had to be made in order to meet the growing needs from a facilities standpoint. They hope to add a laundry facility and a few walls, otherwise they feel like the new space was made for them. So many resources are available now that weren’t before, including private rooms, a fullby Diane Schoonover

UpdateMarkaMaking

28 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

size gym for the kids to play and a computer area for the parents to work on their job search, to name a few.

A Glimpse of a New Beginning

Request your free quote LuckyLimoLLC.com419-236-3964today! Ride In LuxuryPerfect for Proms & Weddings! 2651 Ft. Amanda Road, Lima, OH 45804 P: (419) 228-8412 • F: (419) 228-8612 BurtonsRidge.com HCF facilities comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. English ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-866-453-7413 xxx 45805 Spanish ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-866-453-7413 xxx 45805 Chinese注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-866-453-7413 xxx 45805 Move in to our Assisted Living by May 31st, and your first month of rent is free! *Security deposit must be paid. For more information or to schedule your tour, please call (419) 228-8412. MAY 2022 • 29 SHAWNEE LIFE

AchieversAmazing

Shawnee High School senior Delaney Dawson will be attending Ohio’s own Franciscan University of Steubenville this coming fall to play tennis and major in middle school education for language arts (which is also her favorite subject in school) and social studies. She explains, “I’ve been inspired to major in education in order to inspire the next gen Delaneyeration.¨

has been looking at Franciscan University in eastern Ohio, since her junior year of high school. FUS is in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) and includes schools mostly in Pennsylvania but also Ohio and West Virginia. ¨My family has helped me by being the ones who introduced me to Franciscan Serving it Up Whether in a cone or on the tennis court by Zoe Smith, Junior Writer University of Steubenville and motivating me to always keep working on tennis.¨ Delaney started playing tennis in 2018, towards the end of her eight-grade year. Delaney has played tennis for Shawnee all four years in high school where Shawnee has won WBLs three times, includ ing this past year. However, this season almost did not happen for her because of an injury she received towards the end of the summer when she broke her wrist at a tennis class. After playing on it for two weeks Delaney realized it was truly broken and had to play the entire school season with a cast on her wrist. Delaney no longer has wrist problems and is ready to take on her next level of tennis at the col legiate level.

30 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

“I’ve been inspired to major in education in order to inspire the next generation.¨

In the summer, you’ll find Delaney working at Sha ron Dairy King taking and making your ice cream orders. Delaney also works at Westwood Tennis and Fitness in Shawnee year-round mostly at the front desk where she has been able to meet more people in the tennis community. This is also where she trains for tennis by having lessons and hitting sessions there. She recommends that everyone have a good schedule to stay organized and fit in both work and life activities to keep their life balanced.

Delaney also participates in Spanish Club, FCA (Fel lowship of Christian Athletes), and NHS (National Honor Society), in addition to playing tennis. In her senior year she is now the president of the Spanish Club and one of the leaders of FCA. In closing, Del aney adds, ¨Tennis has taught me mental strength and that it’s possible to bounce back after being down.¨

SPRING IS HERETime for something new! 419-812-2821 brunkelectric@gmail.com Interior | Exterior | Landscape your outdated lighting with REFRESHLEDs MAY 2022 • 31 SHAWNEE LIFE

my experience and expertise as a pediatric occupational therapist, I want to use my time here to garner in a new appre ciation for toys and all the ways they can assist in your child’s Idevelopment.wouldimagine

• I see a toy that can be played with in various positions – sit ting, standing, lying down – thereby encouraging a child’s body awareness and proprioception.

• I see pretend play, opportunity for imagination and make believe.

As parents, we’ve all been there…staring at a messy playroom and wondering to ourselves, “Why do we have all of these Usingtoys?”

that when many people look at a particular toy at the store, they look at how many things that toy does. How many buttons does it have? Does it light up or make noise? How many ways will it entertain my child?

I want to slightly shift the lens with which we look at toys. To do this, I’m going to use the example shown here of a game called Ruff’s House, made by Learning Resources (an excellent source for toys, by the way). This looks like a fairly simple toy, right? It’s basically just a plastic doghouse, a tiny stuffed dog, and several dog bones. There’s not that much to it. It doesn’t light up or make noise, there are no buttons to push. Well, let me share with you what I see when I look at this “fairly simple” toy.

by Laura Mitchell of Indianbrook

• I see opportunities for kids to practice counting.

• I see opportunities for kids to practice matching, patterns, and concepts of similar/different.

• I see dog bones with many different textures that will expose kids to varying tactile inputs, thereby improving their abil ity to process their sense of touch and developing tactile discrimination skills.

32 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

Matters!Play

• I see opportunities for kids to learn colors.

Well known educator, Maria Montessori, is quoted as saying, “Play is the work of the child.” This quote truly encompasses what I do every day as an occupational therapist. Play is how kids develop motor skills, coordination skills, cognitive skills, language skills, social skills and sensory processing skills, just to name a few. All these skills are important for our children’s success in the many activities in which they will participate throughout their lives. The best toys, therefore, are those that encourage the development of as many of these skills as pos Withsible. all this said, please don’t hear me suggesting that you need to go out and buy your kids more toys and further clutter up your playrooms. My hope is simply to increase your un derstanding of how toys can be utilized to encourage a child’s development, and perhaps shift the way you view play as your child’s primary occupation.

• I see small manipulatives that can be carried – one at a time or many at a time – developing a child’s hand strength and fine motor skills.

• I see opportunities for turn taking and social skills as kids share this toy with their peers.

I could go on and on, but hopefully you get the idea…

Time: 9:00-10:00 AM Session 1: June 20, 21, 22, 23 Session 2: July 18, 19, 20, 21 Session 3: Aug 15, 16, 17, 18 2022

MAY

• 33 SHAWNEE LIFE

Happy Mo�ers’ Day too much money! Do not advertise in Shawnee Life or you will get a lot more business and exceed your wallet’s capacity. You’ve been warned. For everyone else, ads@ShawneeLife.comcontact: WARNING: Business Owners with 34 • MAY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE

by Nicole Davis

Shawnee Life would like to welcome Janet Hawk, who happens to be the owner of the newest home in Indianbrook! With the perfect location in mind on Tonkawa Trail, Jan’s dream home began with a maga zine picture of a floor plan. She enjoyed everything about the building process because of her builder, Gehring & Burtchin, and her designer, Marci Hefner. Family is very important to Jan. She has two married sons. Her oldest son and his wife live in Austin, TX and are expecting their first child in June. Her young est son, his wife and their 10-month-old daughter live in Columbus. Jan enjoys traveling, especially to visit her family. She serves on the Lima Memorial Founda tion Board of Trustees, The Lima Symphony Or chestra Board, and the United Way of Greater Lima’s Community Review Panel. When you see Jan walk ing in the neighborhood, please make sure to say hi!

MAY 2022 • 35 SHAWNEE LIFE

WELCOME WAGON

New to Shawnee? Welcome to our Community! If you’re new to the area, we have a beautiful gift basket full of wonderful donations from our magazine sponsors and friends. Introduce yourself and your family by emailing our Welcome Wagon Coordinator, Nicole Davis, at WelcomeToShawnee@gmail.com, and we’ll deliver a gift basket to your doorstep. Welcome Basket made possible by: Bayliff & Son, Brunk Electric, Cleaves American, Deborah’s Interiors, Mercy Health, ProForma Add-ALine, Purple Feet Wine Boutique, Tracy’s Appliances

Welcome Indianbrook,toJan!

Joinhttp://GROUP.ShawneeLife.comourprivateFacebookGroupfor:• Special Offers from Sponsors • Early Access Invitations for Exclusive Events • Connect with other Shawnee Life readers