Happy Fourth of July from the Brenners of Indianbrook! The Story of Us July 2022
Free Water Testing & Advising Pool Installation • Retail Store • Service Department Large Selection of Chemical Lines Family - Owned 419-999-1505 Shawneepoolslima.com 4580 Spencerville Rd., Lima, OH 45805 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) FindMay’stheFeatherWinnerisEmilyReeves! 2 • JULY 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 Axe throwing is now at Westgate! Our axemasters will show you how to throw, all you need to do is book your night online at www.westgateentertainmentcenter.com Rent a lane for you and some friends or rent the whole room for bachelor parties, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, gender reveals. 721 N Cable Road, Lima, OH 45805 419-227-7231 JULY 2022 • 3 SHAWNEE LIFE
From Diane’s Desk... 4 • JULY SHAWNEE2022LIFE
I also hope to visit Amish country with my son, take Amtrak to Chicago and stay in a tree house in Hocking Hills. Spending time around the pool is also a favorite summer activity, especially when you have a Cabana Boy like Nick around! We really do love throwing pool parties with family, friends and neighbors; sometimes more than one per weekend. I’m also looking forward to meeting new people from our community. One of the ways this is possible, is to reserve a ticket on our 2022 Shawnee Life Summer Drink & Dinner Tour! Tickets were first offered on our private Facebook group page and our VIP texting system, so check our website, www. ShawneeLife.com to see if there are still tickets available for the July 30th event. This is a wonder ful way for me to connect with you and for you to connect with fellow readers, all while having a fun time together! The dinner event at Purple Feet Wine Boutique in May was another nice opportunity to meet new people! We also plan to get a group together at the new axe-throwing room at Westgate Entertainment Center and we are “brewing” up a unique experience at T he Meeting Place on Market!
Have a super summer!
Summer is also an exciting time for us! The kids are out of school, the days seem longer, adventures are waiting to be had and memories are being made. We are hoping to explore new places, hang out with family and friends, lose track of time, and of course get some projects done around the house.
Shawnee Life Magazine is growing, thanks to YOU! We are slowly but surely getting more submis sions from readers to really tell The Story of Us. More and more businesses are also interested in joining our community, so please look for the new ads throughout the magazine. It is so exciting for us to be able to add additional pages!
We love when events support our business sponsors and allow our readers to get to know each other at the same time! In this month’s Making a Mark article you get to look into the Aspire program at Apollo, which I worked at for the past three years, after an over 20-year teaching career in California. Teaching and supporting students with learning English has always been a joy of mine, however I realized the only career I ever experienced was teaching, so I decided to try something completely different. Becoming the Publisher of Shawnee Life Magazine has expanded my horizons in unexpected ways. I never thought I would be writing, selling or marketing for a living, because frankly I feared change and didn’t think I had the skills (“Oh, I could never do that!”). But it turns out I CAN and the Cabana Boy is actually my biggest cheerleader and coach; and he “knew without hesitation” that I could do it all along. This is our 4th issue and I can’t help but wonder about what you think? Please feel free to share the good, the bad and the ugly! I want to know it all! I am here for you, so please let me know what you like and don’t like about Shawnee Life Magazine, as well as share what you want to see and keep those article ideas coming to Ideas@ShawneeLife.com!
Cheers,
MEET THE TRIBE Diane Schoonover Publisher Michael Ayers Photographer Nick Schoonover Cabana Boy Janine Douglass DISH-cussions Anca DeifendeiferQin Making a Mark DamschrodeGeorgiannar Precious Pets Molly Ellerbrock Graphic Designer Julie Lundin Know Your Neighbor Nicole Davis Welcome Wagon / Mercy Matters Zoe Smith Amazing Achievers JULY 2022 • 5 SHAWNEE LIFE
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!
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.
Know Your Neighbor
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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.
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.
ArticlesFeatured
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.
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.
APPLIANCES Tracy’s Appliances (419) 223-4786 Westrich Furniture & Appliances (419) 695-6045 CANCER CARE / ONCOLOGY Cancer Care of West Central Ohio (419) 221-2273 CLEANING Northwest Ohio Kwik Dry (419) 701-2081 DONATION PICK UP Habitat for Humanity Lima ReStore (419) 222-4937 EDUCATION Lima Central Catholic High School (419) 222-4276 ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Brunk Electric (419) 812-2821 ENTERTAINMENT Westgate Entertainment Center (419) 227-7231 EVENT SPACE The Meeting Place on Market (419) 330-5630 FINANCIAL ADVISORS Financial Clarity Group (513) 752-0386 FOOD & DRINK The Meeting Place on Market (419) 330-5630 Purple Feet Wine Boutique (567) 940-9944 FOUNDATIONS WATERPROOOFING& The Basement Doctor (419) 229-5800 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 SponsorDirectory FUNERAL HOME Bayliff & Son (419) 645-4501 FURNITURE Tracy’s Appliances (419) 223-4786 Westrich Furniture & Appliances (419) 695-6045 HEALTHCARE Mercy Health – St. Rita’s (419) 227-3361 HEATING & AIR Cleaves American Heating & Air Conditioning (419) Washam227-4328PlumbingHeating&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 PET MEMORIAL SERVICES Bayliff & Son (419) 645-4501 PHOTOGRAPHY The Ayers, Inc. (419) 222-9377 PLUMBING Washam(419)HeatingPlumbing&Air339-0729 POOL CARE & INSTALLATION Shawnee Pools (419) 330-5630 PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS & PRINTING SERVICES ProForma Add-A-Line (419) 224-8747 REALTORS Busy B Realty (419) Cowan339-0600Realtors(419)222-1212 RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Burton’s Ridge Assisted Living (419) 228-8412 Primrose Retirement Community (419) 224-1200 SECURITY Lima Security, Inc. (419) 222-1250 SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING ProForma Add-A-Line (419) 224-8747 SKILLED NURSING & REHAB Shawnee Manor (419) 999-2055 TRANSPORTATION / LIMOS / PARTY BUS Lucky Limo, LLC (419) 236-3964 UPHOLSTERY & WINDOW TREATMENTS Deborah’s Interiors (419) 991-4400 WEDDINGS The Ayers, Inc. (419) 222-9377 Lucky Limo, LLC (419) ProForma236-3964Add-A-Line(419)224-8747 JULY 2022 • 7 SHAWNEE LIFE
by Julie Lundin NeighborYourKnow Meet John and Karen Brenner of Indianbrook! John is a semiretired salesman and Karen works at a county office as an administrative assistant. The Brenner family moved to their Kitamat Trail home in 2010 on Thanksgiving eve, as well as Thanksgiving morning! Mak ing a holiday meal when plates and dishes were still packed in boxes turned into some pretty laughable memories today! John and Karen love the company of their neighbors immensely, as well as the safe and friendly atmosphere in the Indianbrook subdivision.
Meet the FamilyBrenner
John and Karen are the proud parents of five adult children, all graduates of Lima Cen tral Catholic. Amy resides in Columbus with her husband, Dan, and they have five chil dren. Jamie lives in Lima with her son. Dominic is in Columbus and is a market ing representative with Utica National Insurance. Danielle also lives in Columbus with her husband, Michael, and she is an occupational therapist at
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John, along with his sister Jan, who recently moved into Indianbrook after residing in Hawaii for 35 years, are from Fairborn, Ohio. He met Karen while playing professional softball. John finished that season and returned to Lima permanently to begin his life with Karen. Karen was born and raised in Lima with three sisters and one brother, who all live somewhat local. Each Sunday they continue their strong family bond by gather ing at their parents’ house for “Sunday Fundays”...enjoying time at the pool.
Themembers!Brennerfamily’s
Riverside Hospital. They are expecting their first child in October! Dalton, proudly residing in Lima, is a realtor with Berkshire Hathaway. Another very special addition to the family is their rescued dog, Bentley. He is eight years old and extremely loved by all…as well as being spoiled by most of the family
they enjoy going to Mara’s, Milano’s, Beer Barrel, The Meeting Place on Market, and 17 West in New Breman. When getting together for a family meal at home, each of the children choose one of their favorite dishes to be served, with homemade macaroni and cheese, as well as peanut butter pie being Family.favorites!This one word is an immeasurable part of the entire Brenner crew. Whether spending Sundays swimming, playing competitive games all night long, hanging out at the beach, or having meals together, the love of their family is definitely life’s greatest blessing.
favorite thing to do is gather as often as possible to competitively play a variety of board games or cards until the wee hours of the morning. They are also sports enthusiasts. Some of their favorite teams include the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame, Cincinnati Bengals, Texas Longhorns, Cincinnati Reds, and a select few root for the Cleve land Browns. The Brenners are sun worshipers, so an ideal vacation for them includes being at a beach soaking up the sun while playing Ticket to Ride, dominoes, or some paddle ball! Eating together is always a lot of fun for their fam ily. The Brenners love to go to various restaurants and try a variety of cuisines. The Pine Club in Dayton is, by far, their favorite place to eat. Locally,
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PURPLE FEET Wine Boutique 230 N. Main Street, Lima, Ohio 567-940-9944 Patio is OPEN! We put the “Celebrate” in Celebration! www.PurpleFeetWineBoutique.com CRAFT BEER, MEAD, CIDERS, COCKTAILS CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS WE OFFER WINE SLUSHIE MIXES! Stop in for Saturday Sippin’ Wine & Gifts For Any Occasion BOURBON NOOK! with over 80 bourbons/whiskies/ryes to sip on while hanging with us Cheesecake Slices/Bistro Bites Saturday, July 30, 2022 - 2:30 to 9:00pm Purple Feet Wine Boutique – TipBacks Wine & Craft Beer – Fíon Wine Room – Heflin Caterers Transportation by Lucky Limo Space is limited so buy your ticket now! Enjoy a glass or flights of wine, bourbon, craft beers, wine slushies and more! Experience live music at TipBacks, smoke a cigar or swing a golf club at Fíon, go shopping in the wine room boutiques, choose from a variety of appetizers and end with a DELICIOUS dinner by Heflin Caterers in Fíon’s private party space! $65 PER PERSON (price includes limo party bus transportation, appetizers, dinner, dessert) Attendees are responsible for all alcohol purchases Limited number of tickets available at ShawneeLife.com Shawnee Life’s Summer Drink & Dinner Party Bus REQUEST YOUR FREE QUOTE TODAY! 419-236-3964 | LuckyLimoLLC.com ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL & PRISTINE INSIDE & OUT! Luxury Seating • 50” Smart TV • Gray Oak Flooring Full Stereo System & Dance Lighting 10 • JULY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE
B Beery InsuranceServices CERTIFIED TO SELL IN THE MARKETPLACE EXCHANGE Specializing in Individual, Senior and Business Group Health Insurance for over 37 Years Phone 419.228.4000 ● www.beeryinsurance.com JULY 2022 • 11 SHAWNEE LIFE
3) They always answer my grammar questions.
Apollo’s Adult Education department offers ESOL & HSE classes. Classes are offered in the morning, afternoon and evening. All students are required to pre-register and attend an orientation where an assessment is given to help determine the individual’s educational plan and goals.
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
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ESOL classes are FREE and open to everyone over the age of 18 who needs help learning English. English is taught at many levels from beginning to advanced. The class focuses on listen ing, speaking, reading, writing, computer literacy and basic Ascitizenship.ateacher
2) The teachers always help in vital matters. You can always ask for advice here and it’s safe and private.
in the program for the last three years, I have loved working with students with different language back grounds from numerous countries. Having two different teachers in the classroom allows us to differentiate our instruction to meet the individual needs of students, and it is also rewarding to see students learn ing from each other. In addition to learn ing about American culture, students are encouraged to use English to teach one another about their own cultures. The culti vation of beautiful friendships is an additional outcome, which can be beneficial when recent immigrants might feel isolated.
1) Dreams come true here; I got US citizenship because the Apollo teachers gave me strong knowledge.
Hannah Davis believes that being an ESOL teacher at Apollo has been a dream come true. “I love that I get the opportu nity to help bridge the gap between cultures. My classes have become a second family and my heart is so full.”
Kingswood Lane resident, Trinh Dang, has attended Apollo’s ESOL classes for the past 4 years. He is originally from Viet nam and now works as a Production Line Associate at Honda of America Manufacturing Inc.’s Anna Engine Plant. He says, “I learn and practice English a lot and now my English skills are improving. In this class I have a lot of friends from around the world and I know more about different cultures.”
Apollo’s Aspire program provides FREE services through funding by the State of Ohio, to anyone who needs assistance acquiring the skills to be successful in post-secondary edu cation, training classes or employment. English Language Development is another offering under the Aspire program. For some, these courses are the missing piece for students to transi tion to the next chapter in their lives.
• Do you know someone who would like to improve their listening, speaking, reading, writing, and/or comprehen sion skills in English?
• Would you or someone you know, want to increase their basic academic skill set?
MarkaMaking
• Do you know someone that would benefit from completing a HSE (High School Equivalence) course to obtain their high school diploma?
ESOL student, Oksana Verrill came from Ukraine, where she worked as a lawyer for many years. She likes going to the class for four reasons:
4) I can meet other immigrants like me and make friends. Ma del Socorro Delgado Pantoja has been attending classes at Apollo for years, after coming here from Mexico, where she did graphic design work. She says, “Apollo School is the best place to learn and practice English because the teachers are patient and very friendly. I have met good classmates and great friends; it is a very pleasant environment to study.”
by Diane Schoonover 2022-2023 ESOL Classes Mon & Wed from 9-12 or 6-9pm. You may attend after required orientation on Sept 7 & 12, Dec 5 & 7, or Mar 13 & 15. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ApolloESOL
Orientations
24 Ohio Means Jobs Paulding Job (Paulding)Center HSE Classes held
24 Vantage Career
10,
Just in Allen County, more than 10,000 individuals are without a high school diploma! Over 75% of unemployed adults in the United States have a high school diploma or less education, and about half of these adults performed at the bottom profi ciency levels in numeracy.
Orientations
The GED tests give students the chance to earn a diploma that is equal to a high school diploma. This diploma is important for people looking for a job or continuing their education.
Ottawa Public (Ottawa)Library HSE held Mon/Wed 9:00 am Noon held: Sept. 12, Nov. 7, Jan. 9, Mar. 6, April Center (Van Mon/Wed 9:00 am Noon Monday/Wednesday 9:00am 12:00pm held: Sept. 12, Nov. 7, Jan. 9, Mar. 6, April Tues/Thurs Noon 3:00pm held: Sept. 13, Nov. 7, Jan. 9, Mar. 6, April (Delphos)Library 9:00am Sept. 13, Nov. Jan. Mar.
HSE Classes
Classes
Mercer
24 Delphos Public
Jodi Wireman, Aspire’s Program Coordinator, explained that “Aspire’s goal is to identify our students’ basic literacy and overall academic needs, provide instruction targeted to their specific needs, and monitor their progress. We strive to provide a safe, motivating and accountable environment for learning to read and improving their targeted areas.”
HSE Classes held Tues/Wed/Thurs HSE Class options:9:00am 12:00pm, 12:30 3:00pm, or 6:00 9:00 pm
HSE Classes
Apollo Career Center (Lima) LEARNING LAB Tutoring (Walk Ins Welcome: July 12, 2021 June 17, 2022) Offered on Monday and Friday 9:00 am Noon & Monday 5:00 8:00 pm
Classes help you prepare for this test, by offering coursework in basic math, reading and writing skills.
12:00pm Orientations held:
Wapakoneta(Wapak)YMCA held Mon/Wed 9:00am Noon held: Sept. 12, Nov. 7, Jan. 9, Mar. 6, April 24 County ESC Building(Celina) held Tues/Thurs 9:00 am Noon held: Sept. 13, Nov. 8, Jan. 10, Mar. 5, April 25
HSE Classes held Tues/Thurs
The GED test has four subject areas: Reasoning Through Language Arts, Social Studies, Science and Math. The official GED test is administered at Apollo Career Center which is a PearsonVue Testing Center. The fee for the test is $120. When applying for the test you can request a one-time $80 voucher from the State of Ohio through Jessica Hoehn at Apollo, to lower the cost to $40. HSE student, Abigail Ritchie says, “The Aspire Program at Apollo Career Center is absolutely fantastic in every aspect, but mainly for the fact that it exists. A program devoted to helping adults get their High School Equivalence quickly and affordably, as well as counseling them in furthering their career is too good to be true. The program is amaz ing, but would not be a fraction of what it is, if not for the staff. They are exceptionally delightful peo ple that make the learning environment fun and achievable.”
Orientations
High School Equivalency (formerly GED)
The program’s other Aspire Coordinator, Jessica Hoehn had this to say, “Personally, I believe the Aspire Instructors are the key to the program’s success. They are not just teachers, but educators who invest their time and hearts into their students. Often the instructors are believ ing in the student first, before the student does. Because of this, student barriers are broken down, educational goals are made, and future dreams are now the student’s reality. It’s a privilege to work side-by-side.”
Sites FREE High School Equivalence Orientations and Class Times 2022 2023 school year
Orientations held at 9:00am, 12:30pm or 6:00pm: July 12, Aug 16, Sept. 20, Oct. 25, Nov. 29, Jan. 10, Feb. 14, Mar. 21, April 25, May 23
Orientations
Orientations
8,
7, April 25 Site Address Phone Apollo Adult Education Building 3325 Shawnee Rd. Lima, OH 45806 419 998 2956 Wapakoneta YMCA 1100 Defiance St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895 419 998 2956 Mercer County ESC Building 540 E Market St Celina, OH 45822 419 998 2956 Ottawa Public Library 136 Putnam Pkwy, Ottawa, OH 45875 419 998 2956 Vantage Career Center 818 N. Franklin St. Van Wert, OH 45891 419 238 5411 ext. 2075 Ohio Means Jobs Paulding Co. Job Center 250 Dooley Drive #B Paulding, OH 45879 419 399 3345 Delphos Public Library 309 W 2nd St, Delphos, OH 45833 419 998 2956 For more information visit https://www.apollocareercenter.com/adult education/courses/aspire/ JULY 2022 • 13 SHAWNEE LIFE
Wert) WorkKeys/HESI Prep Classes held:
(As HSENeeded)Classes held
Pre register required for our 3 day orientation call Aspire Coordinator Jodi Wireman 419 998 2956
From the kitchen of Shawnee Life Magazine readers were given early VIP access to pur chase tickets for Purple Feet Wine Boutique’s “Tour of Europe”
Purple Feet’s “Hostess with the Mostest” and Managing Partner, Mel Kirchenbauer, went on to serve us four more courses. The CedarPlanked Smoked Salmon Cakes with Fennel and Orange Greens worked as an exquisite combination. It was paired with a fruit-forward Gaillac Perlé 2020 vintage that tasted of a rich honey poured slowly over your palette spiked with a spring of tickling bubbles.
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5-Course Wine Dinner on Thursday, May 26th! Purple Feet’s Owner and Chef, Alisa McPheron, created each course to perfectly pair with a variety of wines from woman-owned vineyards around Europe. Rachel Nasatir, from Cutting Edge Selections, a specialty distributor based in Cincinnati, supplied the wine and performed curation throughout the Asmeal.we walked in, we were invited to try the wild card wine, which was a sweet and refreshing Sake. We learned that the manufacturing process of Sake is closer to beer than wine. This was paired with a variety of appetizers including: fresh ceviche, seared tuna, stuffed mushrooms and pineapple/chicken skewers.
Tour of Europe
After that came a stuffed Chicken Roulade with a Polenta Torte. The wine pairing was El Chaparral de Vega Sindoa Garnacha 2019 which has dusty tannins and an earthy streak leading to a long-lasting tart berry fruit. This proved to be the group’s favorite selection, prompting the largest number of bottles ordered to enjoy at home in the future. by Diane Schoonover
The Seared Beef with Green Peppercorn Sauce came next and was amazingly tender via sous vide, and was served with fluffy Garlic Whipped Potatoes and a beautiful bouquet of asparagus. The Foradori Teroldego 2020 provided a backdrop of blackberry, citrus and carried with hints of chocolate and herbal notes. This 100% Teroldego (related to the Syrah grape) are fermented with natural yeasts occurring on the fruit’s exterior and then aged in cement tanks sans sulfur. Lastly, the finale was a delightful Berry Tart with Pastry Cream and Coulis. The wine pairing was Joh. Jos. Prum Wehlener Soonenuhr Spat lese Riesling 2016 that erupted in sweet notes of pear, and white cherry with a firm yet sensual orange zest. As we were leaving the unique dining space at the back of the Legacy Arts Building in downtown Lima, we were gifted a box of Chef Alisa’s Boozy Chocolates to take home with us. Not only do her chocolates look like tiny works of art, they taste divine as a smooth velvety choco latey chaser to the lovely wines and wonderful dining experience.
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Purple Feet Wine Boutique offers monthly dinner events (except during the summer) on the last Thursday of the month, keep your eyes peeled for early registration for Shawnee Life readers via our private Facebook group or Text message, as these events usually sell out. The pairing theme may include, wine, beer, bourbon, or something else! One of the unique things about the retail wine boutique is the option to select any wine or beer and open right there to enjoy. You will be tempted to try your own hand at pairing by requesting a slice of Chef Alisa’s mouthwatering cheesecakes! Flatbreads, soups, charcuterie boards and other snacks are also usually available for your “boutique picnic.” The patio is also now open for the summer! Check out their Facebook page for photos of their daily cheesecake selections, to order tickets for their next event or to stay updated on all the newest drinks! Some images courtesy of Michael Ayers
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My early memories are playing on the beach and taking turns nervously asking our grandfather for rides in his boat. As we got older, my dad (Brian Walter) bought a boat and our family traveled to Clark Lake near Jackson, Michigan each summer. My brother (Ben Walter) and I would get up at sunrise and sneak outside to stoke the campfire and walk on the dock. Today, I can’t help but smile when I hear my two little boys (Lennon, 7 and Warner, 3) sneak around the cottage when they should be asleep. Just like me, Kyle, and Ben used to do. And like my dad and Steve before us, just as their dad and his brothers before them. A couple of years ago I bought a Sea-Doo. Then we bought a Taylor jet-boat, named “Sweet T” after my wife Teresa which we sold last fall to buy a family boat. We also have a rowboat for our boys. Though the toys bring us joy, it’s more about the family memories that we create. Ben and I still wake up at sunrise and sneak out to the dock. Now he has a boat, dubbed “Spray n’ Neuter” because he is a veterinarian. We all text each other pictures of “our next boat.” We have a real family connection with boating and the memories it has given us. We are lucky to live in Lima where there are so many lakes within an arm’s reach.
The happiest days of my childhood summers were when my dad would trailer the ’62 Glastron home on a Friday night. That meant we were heading to Clark Lake. I knew every By Justin Walter of Pro Drive As I sit here watching the sunrise over the lake, I think back to where my passion for boating began. I look across the water toward my grandparents’ cottage, and there it is. I recall when I was about 7 years old; back then my aunts, uncles and cous ins would stay at that cottage. My cousin (Kyle Walter) and I would wake up at sunrise and we would sneak around because we weren’t allowed to be awake yet.
The love of boats, water, and “The Lake” runs through the entire Walter family! Dating back several gen erations, the highlight of every summer was a trip to the lake. Justin, his father, Brian, and his uncle, Steve, all love to share stories about their summer boating memories. His cousin Kyle and brother Ben are also mentioned, as well as the legendary U. William Walter (Justin’s grandfather / Brian & Steve’s father). The Walters work hard within the family business, Trisco Systems, but they also know how to play hard on the water with their “toys.”
Walters on the Water
By Brian Walter of Wapak Rd
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always had a boat and Dad even let me pull it to the lake to ski with my friends when I was in high school (are you kidding me?). When my wife, Stacey, and I had the opportunity to buy a “Lake House” we could hard ly rub two nickels together. But we both shared the same story, our every significant childhood memory involved the lake and a boat—me in Ohio and her on the Mississinewa in Indiana, and we decided that was what we wanted for our children as well. So, we bought a wonderful place on beautiful Lake Cumberland 22 years ago and have gone through 3 boats and 5 wave runners. Our kids, Tiphanie, Kyle and Gretchen, tell us that the lake memories are their fondest—mission ac complished and now we are working on our 6 grandkids—so far so good. We now find ourselves truly fortunate to live on McClintock Lake (with a boat), a place overlooking Lake Cumberland (another boat), and on a Bay in Florida (a pontoon). They say that boating runs in your blood, well for the Walter family that blood has run for at least five generations. Our advice, go buy a boat and make some memories.
By Steve Walter of Shoreview I remember sitting on my grandfather’s lap surrounded by his family at his place on Indian Lake when I could not have been more than two or three years old. I remember all the family trips to Indian Lake and especially Clark Lake. Early morn ing fishing trips with my dad, skiing behind our boat, or being pulled on a tube (valve stem down) seems like yesterday. We square inch of that boat, the trailer, the black and white Merc 400, the smell of the fiberglass mixed with 2-stroke mixed with the musty canvas cover. Pure joy for a 6-year-old. As I grew up, messing about with boats was all I wanted to do. Fortunately, my dad bought a cottage at Indian Lake in the 70’s and we were there every weekend. Stored in the loft of my dad’s old warehouse at Trisco was a 9’ racing hy droplane that he had when he was a teenager. He gave that hydroplane to me when I was 14. I restored it back to life and obsessively bought old garage sale motors for it, trying to make it go faster. My dad had beautiful Sea Rays, a crazy fast Baja jetboat, a rowboat, and many others over the years. My first purchase after my wife, Suzanne, and I got married 35 years ago was a boat, and we have had one ever since. We took our kids (Justin, Rachel and Benjamin) to “the Lake” as much as we could during the summers. I bought a “Lake House” on Lake Cumberland in 2007 and then we moved to Indian Lake in 2019. The kids and I have boats for every occasion; a pontoon boat, crazy fast jetboats, a Sea-Doo, a rowboat, kay aks, and my pride and joy - Chris Craft the “CLARA ROSE”, named after my granddaughter. My 85-year-old dad tells me that his father rented cottages at Indian Lake when my dad was young. My dad’s first power boat ride was in 1942 when he was 5 years old. As fate would have it, the boat he and his little brother Billy rode on that day was docked at the property I own today. The Walter’s 5 generational love for boats, the water, and the peace it brings spans over 100 years.
$TWO419-701-2081ROOMCARPETCLEANINGSPECIAL99*WHOLE HOUSE AIR DUCTS CLEANING & SANITIZING *Up to 8 vents Includes Clean, Deodorize, Protect & *OversizedDisinfectorL-shaped combo rooms are considered 2 rooms $199* WWW.NORTHWESTOHIOKWIKDRY.COM NWOHIOKWIKDRY@GMAIL.COM HOW CAN WE BE OF SERVICE TO YOU? Deep Cleaning Technology All-Natural & Pet Friendly Super Fast Drying Time Home of the Hfree ome of the Hfree ome of the free Because of Bthe ecause of Bthe ecause of the brave! brave! brave! (419)339-0729 5028 Poling Rd. Lima, OH 45807 FOR SERVING! 18 • JULY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE
We will be located just North of the rabbit barn. Mention you saw our ad and get a special surprise! Want to WIN a ‘sweet’ treat on your doorstep? The first 10 people to text us how many condiments are at the snack booth wins! Text your name, address and the number to 419-371-4633 to enter to win. BUYING SELLING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT BusyBRealty(419) 339-0600 | darheit@busybrealty.com at the Allen County Fair August 19-27th JULY 2022 • 19 SHAWNEE LIFE
HEALTH CARE FOR THE UNIVERSE OF YOU 15226LIMADV World-class health care in your neighborhood 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. 20 • JULY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE
was served as a hint to the evening’s surprise
On behalf of the Mercy Health Foundation Greater Lima, thank you for your support of the third an nual Red Door Gala that took place on June 9th at the Veterans Memorial Civic & Convention Center. The charity event focused on St. Rita’s Neuroscience Center, stroke care, and inpatient rehabilitation. This was the first time the invitation to the gala was extended to the public, so we really appreciated everyone that attended! Sara Ambroza, President of the Mercy Health Foundation Greater Lima, expressed the impor tance of providing the highest levels of stroke and neuro care for our community. “Through these advancements, we are saving lives and be ing able to restore brain function.” St. Rita’s pro vides comprehensive stroke care and currently performs surgeries such as intracranial aneurysm embolization, mechanical thrombectomies, and advanced brain aneurysm procedures. The chari table dollars raised will be used to help provide life-saving neuroendovascular procedures, enhance technology, as well as expand the inpatient rehabilitation unit and functional therapy space. This expansion includes renovations in the K tower on the 8th Floor, extending into the E wing.The 2022 Mercy Club Award went to Shawnee resident, Sam D. Halker, President of Smith-Boughan Mechani cal Services. He has been a Mercy Club member since 1986, supporting: Hospice, the New Century Project, Easy Street, the Mobile Health Van, Cancer Care, Taking Our Mission to the Next Level, Medical Center of the Future, DepartmentEmergencyRenova
tion, 3D Mammography/ Hybrid OR projects, and most recently Graduate Medical “StrawberryEducation.Wine”
Mercy Health would like to thank the sponsors, attendees, vendors, event volunteers, and the donors for supporting the ability to provide advanced health care to transportreduceand save lives.
3rd Annual Red Door Gala! by Nicole Davis
see you at the 4th year!GalaRedannualDoornext Dr. Matt & Crista Owens Eric & Lisa Rampe Lance & Carol Buettner Presenting Sponsor Superior Credit Union, Foundation Board Chair Ronda Lehman & Sam Halker Abe & Sara Ambroza Barry & Angelika Clark (Board of Directors Chair) Smith-Boughan & RondaFamilyLehman & Deana CarterDeana Carter Concert Bill & Charlene Walter, Stacey & Steve Walter (Philanthropy Board Chair) THANK YOU! RED DOOR OF MERCY PRESENTING SPONSOR Superior Credit Union RED DOOR OF HEALING SPONSORS Design MuhlenkampCollaborativeBuilding Corporation St. Rita’s Medical Center St. Rita’s Medical Center Volunteer/ Smith-BoughanAuxiliary Mechanical Tuttle Construction, Inc. RED DOOR OF HOPE SPONSORS Good Food Restaurants TriscoNutrienSystems, Inc. RED DOOR OF ACCESS SPONSORS Buckeye Floor & Ceiling Cenovus Lima Refinery Lima Pathology Associates, Inc. Wannemacher Total Logistics RED DOOR OF COMPASSION SPONSORS Bluffton University CCR ChamberlainRealtorsHuckeriede Funeral CheapHome Sign Company Dr. & Mrs. Joseph J. Sreenan Fidelity Builders Supply, Inc. Gray’s Cappie Sportwear Greater Lima Region, Inc. HCF Management, Inc. InnovativeINEOS Packaging, LLC Lima Pallett Company Lima Radiological Associates, Inc. Miller Contracting Group Premier Bank Rhodes State College Ron Spencer Real Estate, Inc. State Bank Stifel Lima Branch The Ohio State University Lima University of Northwestern Ohio EVENT VENDORS Chef Alisa McPheron Chef David Lani & Team Dean HeatherSoundMarie Photography Joyous Occasions Lima Civic Center Staff Mercy Health event volunteers Michael Ayers Modo Media Tracy Moran and Team – Bell Tree Productions JULY 2022 • 21 SHAWNEE LIFE
MattersMercy
entertainer; American country music singer-songwriter, DEANA CARTER! Something particularly interesting to note about Deana, is she worked with recovering stroke and head injury patients after majoring in rehabilitation therapy. She found the work rewarding and actually used the power of music to help heal patients. By star ring in the Red Door Gala, she continues to pursue her passion of music and help patients.
OwensgivengratitudeSpecialisalsotoDr.Matt(Chief Clinical Officer), Lisa Neuroscience(DirectorRampeof and ofGinternator),EventRetBuettnerNeurologist),(InterventionalDr.Rehabilitation),AymanGheithFamily,Lane(SpecialCoordiAudrey(DirectorAnnualGiving), their fearless leader Ronda Lehman (President, Mercy Health – Lima), Mary Ann Bailey (Mercy Health Foundation Board Coordinator), and of course the ultimate planner with the vision Sara Ambroza (President, Mercy Health Foundation Greater Lima). Both Sara and Mary Ann went above and beyond to help make this event a success! And of course, apprecia tion goes to the surprise entertainer Deana Carter - who was spectacular! Every dollar raised goes to support the greater Lima area. Because of you, more of our friends, neighbors, and loved ones will receive the highest levels of stroke and neuro care they need right here at home. We hope to
Chad, wife Michelle and their four boys are excited to get out and start installing new pools and create their own memories. “I actually worked for my Uncle Bob, for a few summers dur ing college. I remember those times fondly, working alongside Scott, Jim and Calvin who are all still a part of Shawnee Pools. My college experience led me to engineering and designing for NASA and other major defense contractors. It’s an honor to continue the legacy of this great business. We’re looking forward to continuing to service Lima and the surrounding communities with superior pool care and installation. We loved that Shawnee Pools was family-run and we will be continuing that tradition. My wife and four sons will all be a part of the business and we’re grateful to the existing employees for stay ing on to help us plan for the future,” says Stall.
After 53 years in business, ownership of Shawnee Pools will change hands but stay in the family.
Bob and Connie Sutherland re member fondly the night that would change their lives. A traveling pool salesman came into the home to sell Bob, then a bricklayer, on a dream of installing swimming pools for a living. While the couple had just had their second baby, they took a chance and with a lot of hard work, sweat and seasonal stressors, the business went swimmingly well. They’ve seen a lot of employees come and go, with many leaving lasting impressions on their small family-owned and operated business. One of the greatest changes through the years was expanding to the nearby land, building a new and much larger facility, and bringing on their middle daughter, Deanna Roush, as a business partner; running the retail and service teams, while Bob continued to lead the installation. Deanna has been with Shawnee Pools for 28 years and will also be retiring from the business to be closer to her grand children. “We have loved being a part of our customers lives and helping them create family memories in their backyard. We have the best customers that have been with us, many for 20 plus years that feel like family to us. We have also been blessed with loyal, hard-working employees that have helped us through the years and they are definitely like family to us too,” explains Roush. Bob and Connie have 3 daughters, 8 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. The couple agrees, “Shawnee Pools has by Jodie Robinson provided a wonderful life for our family thanks to our amazing customers and team.”
Granddaughter Sidney Roush explains “I feel so proud to have gotten the opportunity to work alongside my grandpa for all these years. He has truly taught our entire family what hard work consists of and looks like.”
Nestled in the Shawnee School District, Shawnee Pools was started in 1969 and is located at 4580 Spencerville Road, after Bob Sutherland began three years prior under Sutherland, Inc. Its modest beginnings started with a home-based business behind the Sutherland family home. Customers would come from all over Northwest Ohio to get a water sample tested, load up on chemicals and pool knowledge, all while taking in the sights of the fam ily’s horse farm.
Through the years, Shawnee Pools has touched many families by creating an outdoor oasis where their family could make lasting memories. It was a privilege and honor to serve almost 2,000 customers and install 926 resi dential pools and 134 commercial pools! While Bob will cherish these memories, he is looking forward to enjoying his beautiful backyard and traveling to more horse shows. As we usher out the Sutherland fam ily and thank them for their many years of dedication, we are excited to announce we are keeping it in the family! The new owner, Chad Stall, happens to be Bob’s nephew. We are ecstatic that the business will remain in the family, and we know it will be left in good hands.
Shawnee Pools 53-year Legacy Being Passed Down Not Pictured: Palmer & Madison Barnett
SpotlightSponsor
“Bob is a hard one to get to sit and relax, so don’t be surprised if you still run into him at the shop. We are so grateful that our current employees have agreed to stay and help make this a smooth transition.”
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Chad and Michelle grew up in Pandora and raised their four sons there as well. Chad left his job of 26 years at Nelson Manufacturing in Ottawa where he was the engineering manager and the company’s Vice President to continue his uncle’s pool business. Chad loves spending his free time outdoors hunting and fishing with his Michellesons.worked as a barber for several years until she be gan staying home to raise her sons. As they began graduat ing high school and mov ing into their life’s journey, Michelle began a small cookie business called “Sweets4Sons” where she decorated sugar cookies for many special occa sions. She won’t be doing that near as much as she is working alongside her husband and sons. Michelle loves being with her family and enjoys the simple things in life like sitting on the back patio with family and friends.
The Stall family is looking forward to dividing and conquer ing. Finding out where each son excels and discovering which parts of the business they enjoy the most, will help Chad and Michelle decide which aspects their sons can take the lead on. As a family, they feel like this is what will truly set them up for success and help give the best quality of work and service to their customers. The entire family is eager to meet you so stop by Shawnee Pools soon!
by Diane Schoonover Bob Sutherland and Chad Stall Eli, Jesse, Michelle, Chad, Joel, and Luke
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The oldest of the four sons, Jesse, recently moved back from West Texas where he spent the last four and a half years man aging a 15,000 acre farm. He grew hay, cotton, chili peppers, and even began growing corn in the desert! Jesse loves to figure things out and has the mind of an engineer. He is a born leader with an incredible work ethic. Luke, the next in line, was born for the outdoors. The pool office will never be where you find him. He is happy running skid loaders and being on the jobsite. You rarely find Luke without a smile. After high school Luke worked on a farm for years, as well as for a commercial Landscaper. He shares Uncle Bob’s love of horses and even bought his very first horse from him with his own money at age 11. Eli, the third born son, went to Millstream Career Center in high school where he was in the construction program. At age 21 he was asked by his former instructor to be on the board at Millstream. Eli spent his first year of work at Vaughn Indus tries. He traveled a lot and decided he would go for it and start
The Stall Family Meet the New Owners his own construction company. He will continue doing that as well as working at Shawnee Pools. Eli is a true entrepreneur. His passion for building started with Dad’s scraps of wood out in the barn. The youngest, Joel, recently graduated high school. He was always very active in sports with football being his greatest love. Hunting and fishing are at the top of his list as well. Joel is spending his summer working alongside his brothers. He plans to go to college for business/account ing but wants to work with his dad this summer and see where he might fit in at Shawnee Pools. Joel is known for his kindness and friendships.
Students were then given a schedule of four assigned tables and a list of information to gather during each session.
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24 • JULY 2022 SHAWNEE LIFE 5th MiddleAnnualSchool2021 19 1718 16 15
Parents and community members represented 21 career fields at the fifth annual Shawnee Middle School Career Fair on Thursday, May 19th, 2022. Nearly 600 students in sixth, seventh and eight grades, gained information on four or more careers. Prior to the event, students received a list of the career fields and prioritized their top choices.
by Erica Schmiedebusch, School Counselor & Fair Coordinator
Professionals shared information about the required educa tion and experience, specialized training and licensure, work schedule, daily responsibilities and tasks, salary range and more. Temple Wright (Cowan Realtors) shared, “It was wonderful seeing how the children are grow ing into young adults. If I just encouraged one child in a positive direction, it was a successful day!” It was truly a unique and fun day for both adults and students alike. One of the 6th grade teachers, Mrs. Cooper, noted, “The conversations on the way back to the classrooms were electric!
“The career fair was a great opportunity to learn more about our local workers and discover potential career paths to explore!” – Georgie Damschroder (7th grade) “The career fair was absolutely amazing and really helpful. It gave us more opportuni ties to look for what we want to be when we grow up.” - Kaia Baker (7th grade) “It was a very fun experience. I learned a lot of things that I didn’t know about the jobs represented there. I also liked how we got a little something from each station that we went to. All the jobs were very fun to learn about.” – Madalyn Fuerst (6th grade) “I really liked how nice and amazing the environment was. It was better than being in a classroom for sure.” - Aya Eissa (7th grade) What students had to say...
The students really were inspired and took note of careers that interested them. They also delighted in the careers that were different than what they expected.”
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Officer Jon Baker (Shawnee Township Police Dept.) Rachel Richardson (Ohio State University) Temple Wright (Cowan Realtors) Professionals & Career Mentors
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JULY 2022 • 25 SHAWNEE LIFE CAREERShawneeFAIR
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Lakrisha Freytag, Michelle Rosas, Lorna Brumley (St. Rita’s Outpatient Wound Clinic) Matthew Myers, Joe Seddelmeyer (Shawnee Fire Department)
Aimee Bucher (Harrison Latham) Chad Massie, Robert Rowland (Rhodes State College) Crystal Dunifon (Mercy Health - St. Rita’s) Dr. Brian Dietz (Premier Vision) Dr. Joe Misson (Orthopaedic Institute of Ohio) Dr. Kristen Sobota (Ohio Northern University) Dr. Micah Sobota (Coleman Behavioral Health) Dr. Marin Harbur (Land O’Lakes, Inc.)
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Jaylene Smith, Alex Casey, Natalie Winegardner, Jacob McKissick, Devin Dye (Dye Realty & Land Company) Jeffrey Rosebrock (Ohio Air National Guard) Jerry Cooper (Shawnee High School) Jessica Begonia (Alloway) Justin Niese (Ohio Department of Transportation) Kathy Valenti, Jane Berg (Tuttle Construction)
Emily Turner (Sielschott, Walsh, Keifer, Regula & Sherer, Inc.)
Kristina Stanford (Wedding & Event Planner)
PetsPrecious by Georgie Damschroder Velcro Vizslas
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Vizslas are regarded as great family dogs. They are well known for their loyalty and love, sometimes to the point of ofpossessionmostsaidvizslasWorldtion.oftowerelearnpriseittousareTheseproudthousandsassothatthesebecausePerhapsclinginess.itisoftraitstheyarepopularpets,withofowners.dogssoubiquinow,thatmaysuryoutothattheydriventhebrinkextincDuringWarII,weretobetheprizedHungarianaristocrats,
Kali lives up to this title, needing to be close to her people at all times. She also has a “vizsla howl,” which is a special way that she talks.
or high-class folks. When Russia took over Hungary, they were not fans of the aristocrats, and associated the poor vizsla as a symbol of them, getting rid of as many of the dogs as they could. At a time, there was estimated to be only about a dozen purebred vizslas left. By miracle, Hungarian dog-enthusiasts were able to protect these remaining precious pooches, and over decades, the breed made a drastic comeback. Now, they have been ranked the 31st most popular dog in the US by the American Kennel Club, and all of them are sus pected to be descended from the original twelve!
Kali is a very energetic pupper, and enjoys swathes of attention and lots of exercise. Although she may have fizzled out a little in her old age, she still loves to play, run, and go on walks! After a long day of chasing the Cox kids, Kali is ready to lay with them on the floor and watch TV. As loveable as all dogs are, she has this one habit that everyone wishes she didn’t have. Kali enjoys rolling around in anything smelly. “She just can’t help herself. She will do it right as you stand next to her,” Mrs. Cox says. Fortunately, Kali doesn’t mind getting a bath after her putrid procedures.
Jessey and Holly Cox always keep an eye on them because we all know the she nanigans chil dren and dogs can get into! The Coxes sure are lucky that the vizslas stuck around, for it gave them the joy of sharing their home with loving, happy Kali!
Mr. Cox works at the Cenovus Lima refinery as a Turnaround Manager, but when left home alone, Kali has no issue getting some sleep in her crate whilst she loyally waits for her people to return. Kali looks forward to seeing her “siblings,” Hannah (10) Harper (8), and Hayden (2), after they return home from Shawnee Schools. The four of them love chasing each other around the house, their energy matched only by each other!
One of these lucky dogs, Kali, lives right in Home stead Estates on Honeysuckle Bend! Kali is an eleven-and-a-half year old female vizsla. She was adopted by the Cox family from a breeder in Pitts burgh after lots of research. Vizslas are a particularly adherent breed, known as “velcro dogs” because of how clingy they can get!
MOVE-INSUMMERTIMESPECIAL! 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 Burton’s Ridge wants to help you find the perfect home for the summer! Enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle this summer! No mowing, no trimming, no yard work! Move into Burton’s Ridge Assisted Living by July 31st and receive your first month’s rent FREE! To schedule your personal tour, contact us at (419) 228-8412. JULY 2022 • 27 SHAWNEE LIFE
Some folks might remember that, back in 2008, Wesley Snipes was sentenced to three years in a medium-security prison for his failure to file tax returns. And the story of how and why that happened is something that drives home the point of how easy it is to believe the urban legends around taxes, according to Forbes. Let’s begin with a bedrock foundation: unless specifically excluded, you have to pay taxes on all the income that you earn. It doesn’t matter if you’re a stockbroker, a bounty hunter, drug dealer, bootlegger, or vampire. Even if your income is earned illicitly, you must declare it, and probably pay taxes on it. Everyone has to file a tax return if they make more than the minimum allowed by law… period. Now, that sounds like an easy, no-nonsense thing to re member. The problem is that, as long as there has been a tax system in the U.S., there have been those who thought taxes didn’t apply to them. From the rumors that tax only applies to money earned from a foreign source, to the idea that if you’re independently employed you don’t owe the government anything, there is a colossal amount of misin formation out there. To make matters worse, it’s extremely persuasive misinformation, because there is nothing quite
Even Vampire Hunters Can’t Slay Without The Proper Tax Plan
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It’s been a generation since Marvel brought Blade the bloodthirsty vampire hunter to the big screen; and showed what happened when you combined the acting talent of Wesley Snipes with a comic book that was allowed to go rated R. Of course, much like how Blade has been largely forgot ten, there are a lot of folks who have an empty spot in their memory regarding its lead’s tax troubles. Everyone Has To Pay Taxes. Even Vampire Hunters as appealing as the idea that you found a loophole in the system, and you don’t have to pay taxes because you were clever enough to realize the truth. Which brings us back to Mr. Snipes’ predicament. Be tween 1999 and 2004, he’d made over $40 million as an action star, and the “advice” that he received was that he didn’t have to pay taxes on it, or any other money he made. Which would have been quite ap pealing, given that he owed about $7 mil lion to his silent co-star, Uncle WhichSam. is, of course, why he was taken to court. Blade’s day in court Snipes ended up with a lighter sentence because he shared information about the men who had persuaded him to fol low the non-reporting path, but he didn’t get out of trouble entirely. Which goes to show you that ignorance of the law (and the internal revenue code is law) is really no excuse, and that being rich and famous doesn’t do much when the IRS comes calling. No one really wants to pay tax es. But if you want to minimize the amount you owe the govern ment, then you need a plan to do so. Claiming you don’t have to follow the rules is not a good planning strategy. There are tax saving strategies in the tax code for every busi ness owner. Let us help you find the most profitable ones for you.
...he’d made over $40 million... and the “advice” that he received was that he didn’t have to pay taxes on it...
FocusFinancial
by Michael McCormick, CPA 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
SPRING IS HERETime for something new! 419-812-2821 brunkelectric@gmail.com Interior | Exterior | Landscape your outdated lighting with REFRESHLEDs PrimroseRetirement.com Townhome Villas, Independent & Assisted Living Next to the Senior Center • 3500 W. Elm St, Lima, OH • (419) 516-0320 When it comes to Senior Living Communities better than others! SUMMER DEBORAHSINTERIORS.COM 1747 ALLENTOWN ROAD, LIMA, OH 45805 419-991-4400 CALL TODAY TO CREATE A LOOK YOU'LL LOVE! SPECIALIZING IN WINDOW TREATMENTS, CUSTOM FURNITURE & INTERIOR DESIGN OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE! JULY 2022 • 29 SHAWNEE LIFE
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Shawnee High School students have been making new connections all year in a new advisory group for grades 9-12 called “Connections.” Meeting each Wednesday this school year, students were grouped with peers their same age and the same teacher - that is until the end of the school year. On this special Wednesday, high schoolers begantorsSchoolyoungeringElmwood,”“Connectionshostedwithgroup-themwithmuchstudents.administraandcounselorsplanningearly in the year for the high school to host Elmwood students in an extended Connec tions period. Since Elmwood students already do a Daily Mile with their own classes, the studentseventwith“ConnectionsElmwood”beganwithmeeting on the football field with their assigned groups (one Elm wood class was as signed to every one or two high school classes). Called to the track in 4 larger groups, some stu dents and staff were off to the races and others took a more leisurely stroll, to complete the Daily Mile together. The predetermined route took the over 1,000 students and 60 staff around the Shawnee School grounds, which included the youth soccer fields, baseball and softball fields, then back to the finish line on the track. From there, high school bubbles,studentsfortheyledgroundstionanmwooddirectedstudentstheirElclassestoassignedlocathroughoutthewheretheyanactivitythathadplannedthegroup.Somebroughtinkickballs, wiffle balls and wa ter balloons. Accord ing to observations and comments from staff and students in both buildings, much fun was had, and most importantly, new personal “Connec tions” were made. As noted by one Elmwood teach er, “You should be very proud of how your students carried themselves today. They were so kind and interacted with our students so well. They were great role models. I hope we can do more in the future by connecting with your building.” We are grateful for our students' will ingness to make this new successfulexperienceandlook forward to more Connections with Elmwood in the by Angie Rex & Abby Wood, Shawnee High School Counselors
Connectionsfuture!
Professionals from the represented fields facilitated various activities such as:
• Eye disease simulations
• Building pipelines to transport gasoline
• Using virtual reality goggles to imitate construction sites
JULY 2022 • 31 SHAWNEE LIFE
• Collaborating in teams to build model airplanes Thank you to the following individuals and organizations for sharing your knowledge and expertise and making this event possible: Dr. Brian Dietz (Premier Vision), Chad Massie (Rhodes State Col lege), Matthew Graff, Dr. Marin Harbur (Land O’Lakes, Inc.), Ohio Department of Transportation, and Marathon.
• Computer coding exercises
• Rock salt, concrete, and asphalt demonstrations
• Practicing the Heimlich maneuver, intubation, and the usage of a heart monitor
On Friday, May 13th, all 7th and 8th grade students at Shawnee Middle School spent their Math and Science periods learning about various careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) by engaging in hands-on activities during the third annual STEM Day event. Students had the opportunity to learn about careers in optometry, emergency medical services, civil engineering, man ufacturing engineering, construction engineering/ management, data science, and computer coding. When asked about her first experience at STEM Day, Dr. Marin Harbur (Land O’Lakes, Inc.) shared, “I had a blast introducing students to data science, an ideal career for anyone who enjoys math, com puters, and constantly learning more about our world. I loved seeing them realize the math they learned this year could be used to answer a complex, real-world question about agriculture. Y = mx + b: it doesn’t just exist for homework! STEM Day was also exhausting. I have an even greater appreciation for how hard our teachers work each day!” by Erica Schmiedebusch, 7th/8th Grade School Counselor 2022 STEM Day
My daughter, Tatum, 13 and attends St. Charles, picked the bedroom on the third floor because of the beautiful cloud mural on the ceiling. My son, Christian, 17 and attends Lima Central Catholic, picked a bedroom on the second floor because of the balcony access. My oldest son, Nathan, 21 and lives in Pittsburgh and works for Bank of Mellon NY, stays in the spare room facing Shaw nee Road when he visits us. He likes to look out the window and see our tree-lined driveway and the golf course across the street. I’m a genealogy buff who has traced my family back to 1100 AD - and I applied the same tenacity to researching the genealogy of our home. The house was built in 1935 on 2.6 acres by Mr. Orrin A. June, who followed his father from Western Pennsylvania to Lima. Orrin’s father was a Vice President of Buckeye Pipeline. Orrin was a salesman and founded the June Floor Company. The original address was 1435 Shawnee Road – though in the 1950s the address was changed to June Drive, ostensibly because Orrin resented the long walk to his Shawnee Road mailbox. Mr. June passed away in 1966. Mrs. June stayed in the home until 1973 when she moved to Nashville to live with her son, Wick June. The Junes sold the home to the Kuck family, who sold it to the Borras in 1978.
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Though I moved to Pittsburgh in 1999, I returned often for holidays and family celebrations. In March 2021, I was hired as a Regional Director for Ohio Education Association, giv ing me the opportunity to return to Lima. My husband Rick, a professor at Ohio Northern University, and I searched for homes online daily. One day, our real estate agent Kathy told us about two homes on Shawnee Road and one on June Drive. Not knowing where June Drive was, I crossed that house off of the list. However, Kathy, who had a keen sense of the home we wanted, convinced us to drive by June Drive. As Rick drove down Shawnee Road, I could see on the GPS app that we were getting close, but I still could not place June Drive. Then just like that, I was in the driveaway of my dream home! The home faces Shawnee Road but the address is 2298 June Drive. As Rick and I walked through the doors, I told him, “You are never go ing to be able to talk me out of this house.” After 29 years, I finally get to see the inside of my dream home. The house did not fail me. It is impressive. Beautiful dentil crown molding, original hardwood floors, five fireplaces, stunning sitting room with French doors that open to a sun room, remarkable formal dining room and a beautiful stair case leading up to the second and third floors. We bought the house and on May 1, 2021, our blended family moved in!
by Tara Reynolds Bales
History of a Home
As a teenager living on Lima’s Lakewood Avenue, I often would drive pass the impressive red brick colonial-style home off Shawnee Road, slowing down to admire and dream. On a cold December day in 1993, as the Christmas lights sparkled in the tall trees in the front yard, I dreamed of owning the house one day.
The Borras embarked on a massive restoration project. They repaired crumbling ceilings in the front room and primary bedroom. Also, they added a bathroom on the second floor and had murals painted throughout the house. They added a new wing to the house with a family room that has access to a quaint brick patio area, an office, and full bathroom. Over time they added a balcony, a pickle ball court, and a twocar garage with gorgeous wisteria growing along it. They added vegetable and flower gardens and landscaped all 2.6 acres where our dogs Jack and Lucy love to play. The Borras restored every inch of this now over 4,000 sq ft. home.
The mirror used to hang in the Shawnee Country Club. It was purchased by the Paynes. They felt it belonged in the house so they left it for us. We agree!
The front room is my favorite space because the artwork above the fireplace belonged to my mother. We have placed a few other pieces belonging to her in this room. It is a quiet place where we like to gather to feel closer to my mother. I enjoy this space because there is no TV which allows us to re ally sit down and talk with each other.
Favorite Space
After 30 years of living on June Drive, the Borras moved out of state in 2007. The Christians bought the home in 2007, then sold the home to the Paynes in 2014. The Christians and Paynes kept the charm of the home, and each family made its mark. Specifically, Mrs. Payne became a Master Gardener and enhanced the gardens to an impressive level.
The Borras loved to host parties and we have been told of some great times in this home. Joyce and Jeff Tracy once stomped grapes at an Italian themed party given by the Bor ras. Keeping with the hosting tradition of the Borras we have had many parties since we moved in. In particular, on May 24, 2022, we proudly hosted the Lima Symphony’s Donor Appreciation Party. About 50 people ate and drank as they walked through our home and many shared stories of parties they had attended in the past. This is the house June built and has been loved by all fami lies who have had the honor of living here. We are the sixth family to own this amazing home. We love our home and are very appreciative of the restoration work done by the Borras and meticulous care given by all owners. Because of their love of the home and dedication to keeping the origi nal charm of the home, as you walk through you feel as if you are in 1935. Most people buy an 87-year-old house to remodel. Not us! We do not plan to change a single thing.
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recently relocated from Tennessee, where they lived for almost seven years. Stacey grew up in Shawnee and is happy to be back living closer to her family. Her children will all attend St. Charles School in the fall. Ava is 8 and will begin 2nd grade, Ethan is 6 and will be in 1st grade, while 4-year-old Ryan will start Pre-K. As a family, they enjoy going to parks, hiking, being outdoors, and staying involved in local youth
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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, Kwik Dry, The Meeting Place, Mercy Health, ProForma Add-A-Line, Purple Feet Wine Boutique, Tracy’s Appliances, Westgate Entertainment Center Welcome to the Pro Drive EickholtNeighborhood,Family! by Nicole Davis Please welcome the Eickholt Family - Stacey, and her three children; Ava, Ethan, & Ryan to Peachtree ThePlace.family
Our Core Values Set Us Apart L I M A C E N T R A L C A T H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L Spirituality Opportunity Ambition Service Leadership Student Well-being W W W . L C C H S . E D U • 4 1 9 . 2 2 2 . 4 2 7 6 Now is the time to spruce up your kitchen with summertime savings! 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 JULY 2022 • 35 SHAWNEE LIFE
For anyone with a love of writing and a desire to be more active in the Shawnee community, I strongly urge you to become a Shawnee Life writer. I believe you would grow in a similar capacity that I have.
Most importantly, I will miss my family, but I’m excited and eager for what the future holds. Thank you to my family for supporting me all these years and encouraging me to dream big and work hard. Special thanks to my mom who encouraged me to become a Shawnee Living writer. On by Zoe Smith
I’m Zoe Smith, and I have been the junior writer for Shawnee Living and Shawnee Life for a little over a year. I graduated from Shawnee in June and will be attending Loyola University Chicago (major unde clared) this fall, so this will be my last article.
Shawnee is a great place full of gorgeous parks, friendly people, and a great sense of community. I’m going to miss the ice cream trips to Pete’s, walking and playing through Heritage Park, and the other numerous things there are to love about Shawnee.
Leaving for college soon, I’m sure all high school graduates are reminiscing over their past 18 years like I am. It’s very exciting to look at the future as it is full of anticipation and dreams, but I also find myself reflecting on everything that’s happened already. I have changed a lot since I was a freshman and even more since I started writing for this maga zine as a junior.
Moving
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It has been great connecting with so many people from our community and hearing their stories. I have loved doing the many interviews and taking time to write about the many good things happening in the community. I have become more comfortable and confident with my writing since the beginning. It has been a lot of fun working with people in this capacity. I am thankful to Jodie for investing and believing in me as well as Diane for continuing to work with me and guide me.
We are on the search for an additional writer for our Amazing Achievers column and we have an opening for a Shawnee High School student. This section of the magazine highlights schol ars, athletes and events from both Shawnee and LCC high schools. We’re looking for someone that is (or is willing to learn to be) outgoing, a thoughtful listener and asks questions to learn more about people.
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Attention SHAWNEE
If you think this fits you, then your first assignment will be to write 500 words about the per son that you know best, YOU! Here are a few ideas to get you started, tell us about: a hobby or skill you know, an accomplishment, a goal for the next year, career aspirations and a dream you hope to achieve. Put down a few notes and then just start writing.
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Send your article and any other writing samples to us at Diane@ShawneeLife.com Terrified at the thought of writing for the world to see? We were too once, then we started writing regularly, and you will get better with practice and support! Curious about the lives and accomplishments of your classmates? Like to grow as a writer and gain impressive experience? Want to add to your resume and college entrance application? Thinking about writing or journalism as a career? Interested in joining our Tribe as a Junior Writer? HIGH
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SCHOOL Students! JULY 2022 • 37 SHAWNEE LIFE AchieversAmazing
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Lima Central Catholic Class of 2022 Shawnee High School Class of 2022 JULY 2022 • 39 SHAWNEE LIFE
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