Shawnee Life - January 2023

Trusted for over 75 years of funeral service

HONORING FAMILY WISHES, THEN & NOW

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 www.bayliffandson.com

(419) 645-4501

311 West Main Street Cridersville, Ohio 45806

Neighborhood Sponsor Directory

These local businesses are proud to serve our community and sponsor Shawnee Life Magazine Their contributions make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and let them know that you saw them in Shawnee Life

APPLIANCES

Tracy’s Appliances (419) 223-4786

Westrich Furniture & Appliances (419) 695-6045

BUILDING RESTORATION EXPERTS

Trisco Systems (419) 339-3906

CANCER CARE / ONCOLOGY

Cancer Care of West Central Ohio (419) 221-2273

CLEANING

Mark’s Maid Service (419) 604-0298

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 (800) 642-8942

ENTERTAINMENT

Westgate Entertainment Center (419) 227-7231

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Financial Clarity Group (513) 752-0386

FOOD & DRINK

Old Barn Restaurant & Grill (419) 991-3075

Purple Feet Wine Boutique (567) 940-9944

FOUNDATIONS & WATERPROOOFING

The Basement Doctor (419) 229-5800

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) 227-4328

Washam Plumbing Heating & Air (419) 339-0729

INSURANCE

Beery Insurance Services (419) 228-4000

JEWELER

Vons Diamonds & Jewelry (419) 227-5616

LEASING LOFTS & BUSINESS SPACE

Kelly Martino (419) 604-2356

MANUFACTURERS & INDUSTRY

Cenovus Energy Lima Refinery (419) 226-2300

PET MEMORIAL SERVICES

Bayliff & Son (419) 645-4501

PHOTOGRAPHY

The Ayers, Inc. (419) 222-9377

PLUMBING

Washam Plumbing Heating & Air (419) 339-0729

POOL CARE & INSTALLATION

Shawnee Pools (419) 330-5630

REALTORS

Busy B Realty (419) 339-0600

Cowan Realtors (419) 222-1212

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Burton’s Ridge Assisted Living (419) 228-8412

SECURITY

Lima Security, Inc. (419) 222-1250

SKILLED NURSING & REHAB

Shawnee Manor (419) 999-2055

TRANSPORTATION / LIMOS / PARTY BUS

Lucky Limo, LLC (419) 236-3964

WEDDINGS

The Ayers, Inc. (419) 222-9377

Lucky Limo, LLC (419) 236-3964

WINDOW TREATMENTS

Affordable Blinds & Window Fashions (419) 230-1558

January CONTENTS

DIANE’S DESK A message from the publisher, Diane Schoonover.

KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS

Understand more about where the readers of Shawnee Life Magazine live.

MAKING A MARK

See what a difference our local non-profit organizations and service groups are making.

SAVVY SPACES

Inspiration abounds as we highlight interior design ideas, curb appeal strategies, and explain how to make your house feel like a home.

MERCY MATTERS

Learn how Mercy Health provides high-quality hometown care.

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

Our sponsors have the opportunity to share who they are and how their business works.

CENOVUS SAYS

Get the latest news from Lima Refinery and learn how Cenovus is reducing environmental impacts, leveraging new technology, and contributing to our community.

Everyone loves to share stories about their pets. Find out how many people tend to treat them like another member of the family.

THE JOY OF ...

This is where our readers show off their favorite toy, hobby or passion that brings joy!

FINANCIAL FOCUS

Securities, Real Estate, Tax Planning. We bring the sharpest minds with their practical advice of how to strategically invest your capital to meet you family’s goals.

TRAVEL TALES

Vicariously travel with our readers to destinations, near and far.

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!

Local teams celebrate fantastic successes.

WELCOME WAGON New people are always moving into Shawnee... meet them here!

Happy New Year!

As the new year begins, I fill my head with resolutions, some that I will succeed at and others that I will not. One of the resolutions I vow to try and work on revolve around how to interact more with you, the readers. I value your input and feedback, so please continue to communicate with me at Diane@ShawneeLife.com.

I also have to give a special birthday shout out to someone that is an integral part of this publication - Nick Schoonover. I never have to bring the party to you because you ARE the party! I hope you have the best year yet, Birthday Boy!

Open to all community members who are living, or caring for someone who has Parkinson’s. Along with our certified Big and Loud Therapy team, guest speakers will be discussing ways to excel with this illness.

Diane Schoonover Publisher / Advertising

Michael Ayers Photographer

Janine Douglass DISH-cussions

Georgianna Damschroder Precious Pets

Julie Lundin Know Your Neighbor

Nicole Davis Welcome Wagon & Mercy Matters

Tara Reynolds Bales Talk of the Town Lifestyle

Paige Brinkman Amazing Achievers

Nick Schoonover

The Story of Us! Know Your Neighbor

You may be wondering who “the story of us” is all about? The photos below are the many neighborhoods that we now receive our monthly magazine.

Since taking the reins in April 2022, Shawnee Life Magazine has almost doubled circulation since transitioning from Shawnee Living. This not only increased our reach to more households but also increased our printing and mailing costs considerably. Thankfully, our generous sponsors support the magazine so we can continue to deliver it free to our readers.

It is our sincerest hope to continue to increase circulation while managing costs, which is why we now offer the magazine in a digital flipbook format for FREE by registering for access at ShawneeLife.com. We encourage you to give our sponsors an opportunity to win your business. In-addition, please refer your favorite businesses to us so we can help them reach new audiences and grow. We hope that you have been able to form a connection or network with at least one other person or business because of this magazine. Some of the best ways to create community are to share your story, an article, or an idea, so Shawnee Life can continue to build the story of us in an authentic way.

Indian Shores

Ten Hills / McClintock Lake

a Mark

Making

328 West McKibben Street, Lima, OH 45801 419-222-4663

The Samaritan House’s mission is to restore personal dignity and independence to homeless women and their children by providing shelter, hope and guidance. The shelter is located at 328 West McKibben Street in Lima.

samhouselima@embarqmail.com www.SamaritanHouseLima.org

money, with her church helping with food and buying the personal items that were needed. Word spread about the service, and soon her small house was filled to capacity with women and children in need.

Churchpeople for Change and Reconciliation became interested and formed a task force to study the problem of homelessness in the area. One of the task force members, Rev. J. Norbert Howe of St. Rose Catholic Church, served on that committee and helped secure the use of his church’s former convent to house the homeless women and children.

The old convent became the “Samaritan House,” and the first residents entered this new location on July 1, 1987. During that first year, over 250 women and children were served.

Services

History

In August of 2022, Lima’s Samaritan House celebrated thirty-five years of serving Allen and surrounding counties. Yet there are still many who know very little about what this organization actually does for homeless and/or abused women and children.

Since 1987, Samaritan House has provided a home as well as hope for new beginnings for women in Northwestern Ohio. Prior to that time, homeless women and children were forced to live on the streets or in undesirable surroundings. Pastor Doneta Warren of the Living Waters Church decided to do something to help. She opened her home in 1986 to that segment of the population. Warren paid for the operation of that home with her own

Lima’s Samaritan House is a supportive emergency shelter program with 17 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, designed to help women become self-sufficient. On-site services, along with several area social service agencies, assist each individual with housing, and with personal, educational and vocational goals.

Women and children are referred to Lima’s Samaritan House by selfreferral, churches and other public and private social service agencies. Clients eligible for services must have no permanent residence, be able to provide care for themselves and

their children, and not pose a safety risk to themselves or others. While there is no cost to stay at Samaritan House, the women are required to save 80% of their income to apply toward their future housing. This not only empowers the women by investing in their own future, but also helps to extend the limited community resources. Admissions are up to a 90-day period.

Shelter services include one-on-one case management, meals, bathing and laundry facilities along with supportive programming that may include parenting, resume and job readiness, drug and alcohol education, budgeting, health and hygiene education, nutrition and more.

The crucial role of case management identifies and addresses the multiple challenges the women and children face on a daily basis. Guiding clients through choices and changes increases their chances to succeed and significantly reduces recidivism. Case Management also works to connect individuals with programs and resources necessary to ensure not only a successful transition, but a support system once they have moved on from the shelter.

Funding

Approximately 50% of Lima’s Samaritan House total annual budget is received from the Ohio Development Services Agency Homeless Crisis Response Program (HCRP).

The remaining 50% of necessary funding is attained through sustained grant writing efforts, private foundations, churches, clubs, organizations, and individuals. They rely on in-kind donations for most of the food, medicine, cleaning supplies, office supplies and household goods that are needed to run the shelter. In 2021, goods valued just over $49,000 were received as in-kind donations.

Support

Lima’s Samaritan House is in constant need of the support from concerned individuals who can help them continue to offer shelter to the homeless. Volunteering, offering monetary or in-kind support, or helping raise the awareness of homelessness in our area, are all ways you can help. Check out the DONATE tab at www.SamaritanHouseLima.org to learn about the various ways to help and to find the frequently updated WISH LIST of items needed.

Save the date for this year’s Raisin’ Bread fundraiser on August 9th, to help a wonderful cause!

If you or you know of anyone needing help, please call (419) 222-4663.

Savvy Spaces

Design with Purpose & Passion

Inspiration from Revival Design’s work with THE SYNDICATE in Bellefontaine

by Kelsi Nellis, Marketing Associate, Revival Design Co.

Sometimes, when you begin a project, you realize the location’s history will guide your design where it was always meant to go. This was the case when we began designing The Syndicate restaurant in Bellefontaine, Ohio. The Syndicate is a new building, constructed on the site of the old Jackson's News Stand. Originally opened in 1922 as an outlet for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the newsstand had several owners in its early days. In 1946, Warren and Jo Jackson took ownership and operated Jackson's News Stand for the

next 47 years. Although the structure was demolished long ago, our clients wanted to pay homage to the history of the site as a place that became much more than a newsstand — it was a Logan County institution where members of the community would gather to shop and socialize.

To begin a project of this scope, we start by asking tons of questions. Some are more focused on functionality — How many guests would you like to accommodate? What are your kitchen and bar equipment needs? How flexible does the space need to be for different types of events? Others are more focused on style — What's your story? How do you want guests to feel while dining? What type of image do you want to portray? What's going to be on the menu? In the case of The Syndicate, researching the history of the site would also be crucial to our design. This is done by gathering information from the library, the historical society, and most importantly, local people. When talking to those who remember these businesses and buildings, we treasure hearing the stories, memories, and history as remembered by past owners and patrons.

After our research, it was obvious that the entire brand, The Syndicate, needed to be thoughtfully structured around the newsstand theme: The bar is encompassed by a replica iron newsstand with Luxfer prism glass, salvaged from another downtown Bellefontaine building that had been demolished; A vintage Jackson's News Stand lit sign was incorporated into the back patio design; Museum-quality, original newspaper articles are artfully framed and displayed throughout the restaurant; Custom signage reading "Extra, Extra!" and "The Front Page" add fun to the space and remind guests of the history of the site.

restaurant design would be acoustics. At The Syndicate, we knew that minimizing noise was a top priority for the owner, so early on we brought in an acoustics consultant to run calculations and help us find a thoughtful acoustical treatment solution that was within the project budget. The final outcome were three-dimensional acoustical ceiling tiles, applied to the underside of the structure in the dining room to absorb noise and reduce echo. Not only do they look great, but the moment those panels went up during construction, everyone on the job site noticed a significant improvement in sound quality within the space. This could be easily applied to residential design through things like adding rugs to the floor, or hanging curtains.

The wall adjacent to the host stand is entirely covered with a custom wallpaper featuring historical news articles originally printed in the Bellefontaine Examiner (the local newspaper). We worked with the owner and the Logan County History Museum to gather as many news articles and advertisements as possible and then selected ones that were either historically significant or visually interesting. We partnered with a local design and print shop to carefully scan each delicate piece, artfully arranged them, and print and install the custom wallpaper.

Another factor at the forefront when making aesthetic decisions is the durability and clean-ability of items — you can select the most beautiful tile backsplash, dining room chair, or custom light fixture, but none of that matters if it breaks in six months or is impossible to clean. We sought frequent input from The Syndicate team, the contractors, the vendors, and the developers in regard to cleaning products that were going to be used in the space, the desired longevity for finishes and furniture, and their comfort level in maintaining and repairing custom features.

The fundamental challenge common to all developers is execution — the savvy selection of the physical location, the alignment of brand and environmental design, and the orchestration of the build-out. Revival offers a better way to carry out our client’s vision through market research, deep collaboration, and multidisciplinary team-based approach. The result is distinctive brands and spaces that are delivered with white-glove service.

Whether you find yourself in a position where you’re designing a restaurant, or you’re just trying to redesign your home, the same basic tenets apply. Design with purpose and passion, and you will end up finding where you were always meant to go.

Another challenge to be met in architecture and design is how to make a space beautiful and functional simultaneously. Every single aesthetic decision involves deep thought in terms of functionality. An example specifically for this

A little about us: As a team, Revival believes in a collaborative approach to design. We are a team of story tellers, problem solvers, and dream makers. We believe in inclusivity, accessibility, and that being genuine and hospitable with others will make us all successful and happy.

Feeling inspired? Reach out and let’s talk at www.revivaldesign.co, call (800) 567-9103, or follow us @revivaldesign.co on Instagram, Facebook, or Linkedin.

Downtown Development

by Josh Bloomfield, Project Director

Get Busy Living!

Our vision is to create a well-orchestrated, mixed-use community that provides housing, commercial, medical, childcare, light industrial, and beautiful parks/public amenities to the great people of West Central Ohio! We want to create one of the nicest, most amazing developments in the Midwest. We believe that the people in our region both need and DESERVE this. We want this 254 acre project to be instrumental in helping nurture, uplift, entertain and grow our region. In short, we want this to help our region ‘get busy living,’ and will do so by providing the market rate housing and amenities to support a growing workforce!

We have a 25-year development agreement with the Village of Cridersville. Phase 1 of development will start in Q2 of 2023, and will be completed by 2028. Phase 1 of the project will include 210+ residences, a 20+ acre Medical Park, and the plots of land for restaurants that are currently listed for sale.

RESIDENTIAL

The Crossroads community has plans for multiple housing options to suit any tenant or property owner. From multi-family complexes like upscale apartments, townhouses, and condominiums to single-family homes, the residential aspect of the community will leave residents with no shortage of options.

Dr. Craig Nicholson is the founder and visionary behind Crossroads. He is one of the best and busiest Urologists in the country. He moved to our area 15 years ago and built his practice, raised his family, and fell in love with the people of West Central Ohio. He wanted to re-invest in the community and bring a taste of “big city” development to the region, including a state-of-the art medical plaza!

RETAIL

The Crossroads community is poised in the prime position to benefit retailers because the area serves as a crossing point between multiple regions and bigger cities. Planning is already underway for small commercial spaces and mid and large-box retail establishments.

RESTAURANTS

Every good community needs good food where community members can come together and travelers can try local food fare. The Crossroads is set to become a hot spot for the best eateries along the I-75 corridor with multiple restaurants already staking their parcel claims.

HOTELS

Accommodations, meeting spaces, and outdoor facilities are important to any well-established community. For now, several outlying parcels of The Crossroads are dedicated to hotels.

TRAFFIC

The majority of traffic to Crossroads will travel via interstate 75 and will have very little impact on the surrounding roadways. We have completed traffic studies, and are working in partnership with the local, state, and federal

putt golf, walking trails, outdoor concert venue, foodtruck accommodations, and frisbee golf. The park will become a community center for the local community as a great place to host an event, party, or concert. It will also provide a great draw for the 40,000+ daily interstate travelers to stop and spend some time/money in our community.

GET INVOLVED

We would love to partner with any interested local investors and businesses. The best way to get involved or learn more about the project is to reach out to me

Mudsock Rd

Talk of the Town

by Tara Reynolds Bales

The Ohio Theatre had been closed to the general public for over 10 years and is being transformed into a stateof-the-art performing arts venue. After a yearlong search looking for a theatre to buy, renovate and reopen, new owners of the property, Michael Bouson and Joe Correll, are working tirelessly to restore this historic landmark. They have currently opened the Ohio Theatre’s “The Stage Door Canteen,” and eventually in early spring “The Playwright Bakery & Cafe” will open. The “The Main Stage Dinner Theatre” will begin in the late spring and “Dillinger’s,” a jazzy second-floor speakeasy with a cutout to the interior lobby below and a 30-foot-long antique art deco bar will open summer of 2023.

While Michael Bouson is from Pittsburgh, PA, he attended Miami University in Oxford for his degree in theatre, and his father lives in Akron. He worked in live theatre and television most of this life, which includes 10 years on Broadway. He was also an executive chef and caterer in Manhattan, so the menu is a creative outlet.

Joe Correll is also a tv, restaurant and theatre professional. Michael and Joe met while performing together in 1988. They were also producers on the “Love Connection” reboot early in their TV careers, and have

designated Friday night as Date Night to honor all of those that have shared their stories about meeting their significant others at the theatre.

I attended Open Mic Night at the Stage Door Canteen with a friend, which is every Thursday night at 8 p.m. A few of the guests that signed up to perform were Jason Cooper on guitar, Angela Lauck with spoken word, Justin Giesige on the piano, and Zach Welly as a magician (and our bartender).

Looking for a twist on traditional chicken tenders? You must try the Honey Sriracha Chicken Tenders with Thai Cucumber Sauce. Sweet and tangy with a hint of heat! The Pepperoni Pizza Bomb exploded with marinara sauce and warm melted mozzarella cheese. Oh, the Parmesan Fry Bread! It was full of flavor, served warm with a side of sauce and peppers.

I look forward to checking out their Ladies Night with a drag queen show on Wednesdays at 8 p.m., Showtunes Sing Along on Friday nights at 7 p.m., Party Night on Saturdays at 8 p.m., and dinner theatre shows in April!

Jason Cooper, Guitarist

Angela Lauck, Spoken Word Zach Welly, Magician

Joe Correll & Michael Bouson

Stage Door Canteen Piano Bar

The Cole Collection Event, A Huge Success

by Megan Rockey, The Cole Collection Founder

The 9th annual Cole Collection event, held on November 3rd at the Shawnee Country Club, was a great success! Enough money was raised to buy gifts for all 185 children in foster and relative care through the Allen County Children Services.

Guests enjoyed passed appetizers as they shopped around the room at the various local boutique vendors.

This fundraising event would not have been possible without the help of a huge team of volunteers and vendors that begin planning the event months in advance.

Thank you for another year of spreading joy to Lima area children. We were able to do this because of each and every supporter, attendee, vendor and volunteer.

According to Allen County Children Services, many of these children would receive very little, if anything, if not for the incredible generosity of everyone who is apart of the Cole Collection. For more information visit www. colecollection.org.

Shawnee Athletic Boosters and Dueling Pianos at Old Barn

by Mindy Molaski, Shawnee Schools Parent

On Saturday, November 5th, the Shawnee Athletic Boosters organizaton hosted an amazing event at the Old Barn Bar and Grill. The dinner was wonderful, offering chicken and rice, potatoes, salad, prime rib, and of course many delicious desserts. The entertainment kept the audience laughing and singing the entire night with pianos dueling every song anyone could think of!

Talk of the Town

Along with a portion of the ticket sales and specialty drink sales going straight to the Athletic Boosters, many single teams had baskets made to sell for the silent auction that were set up through the night. Every basket/item was sold, and that money goes directly to the teams. A wonderful night was had by all who attended, and all are hoping the event can only get bigger and better in the future! Special thank you to Booster President, Brian Wheeler, and owner of Old Back, Pete Williams, for all the hard work put into the event! All the student athletes at Shawnee High School will benefit from an evening of fun!

Ashton Wolf Entertainment, Indianapolis

World-class health care in

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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.

It’s true! You can’t stop the beat when the Broadway Show Hairspray and Project SEARCH come together. Thanks to Mercy St. Rita’s, this fantastic collaboration took interns backstage before the show and to the live show on November 6th. Interns from Project SEARCH got a special behind the scenes view of what it takes to run a Broadway show. This included everything from lights and the soundboard to costumes and makeup! The event culminated in a VIP experience for the interns before the live show and artwork they created featuring Hairspray was on full display! The cast even met with the interns after the performance to talk and take photos. It was a night that no one would soon forget.

by Nicole Davis

also treat the interns like staff. This is why our program is very successful. The events the interns get invited to may be a once in a lifetime kind of thing for them and it shows them with a little effort, many areas are rewarding. Events like Hairspray are just a topping on the program for them. Project SEARCH’s goal is to secure a competitive position in the community and the interns are working hard to gain the skills to be a leader, to know how to talk to an employer and be a young emerging adult in the workplace. I am excited to see where they all end up within the year.”

Mercy Matters

Ann Stiles, the Community Affairs Coordinator for Mercy Health – St. Rita’s, gave some insight on the impact of sponsoring such an event. “It was an amazing evening from our VIP reception in the new mezzanine, to the incredible performance of Hairspray, to the cast coming up to the mezzanine after the show and meeting the Project SEARCH students. It truly was a perfect night. Giving back to our community and impacting lives of our community is what Mercy Health is here to do.” Leigh Taylor, Project SEARCH Instructor, could not agree more! “Mercy does so much for the interns of Project SEARCH. Not only do they provide excellent mentorship through each of the individual internships, but they

Project SEARCH is a school-to-work program for students with disabilities who are serious about working hard and getting a job. It is designed to provide entry-level work experiences in a typical business setting. Interns work unpaid in three 10-week internships at Mercy Health/St. Rita’s Medical Center gaining soft skills and valuable experiences. Leigh also shared, “We have an 89% job placement rate and are in the 10th year of the program. We have 8 interns this year and they are completing the first internship soon. In between each internship we hold a workshop week where they will do mock interviews and go over more of the competencies for competitive employment and independent living skills. We are always looking for anyone who would like to do mock interviews, either in-person or online!” If someone is interested in Project SEARCH, email Leigh at Leigh.Taylor@apollocc.org. Check out the key dates and deadlines on page 25. Applications are due on Feb 17th.

Anthony found new confidence with a wig he tried on behind the scenes and was given to take home. It has helped him connect with other interns and staff. His mom, Michela, shared, “The look on his face when we went to the VIP experience was beyond words. He knew his effort got him there and it was an experience he/ we will never forget.”

Gabby’s internship is currently doing laundry and “condensing” at Mercy Health. She is excited to intern in the mail room next because as she said, “They give out the candy.” Her mother, Carrie, expressed her appreciation for Project SEARCH and the happiness Gabby expressed going to see Hairspray after her anticipation was through the roof!”

John has been interning in patient transport. “I love it!” He loves it so much that after his next internship in communication he is looking forward to returning to patient transport to intern again! John also shared the artwork he created for the VIP event. He was pumped to go watch the show!

Sponsor Spotlight

www.bayliffandson.com (419) 645-4501 311 West Main Street, Cridersville, Ohio 45806

We know that families turning to us must have complete confidence in our firm. At Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, our staff members are trained to handle situations in a dignified, professional manner.

For generations, we have met the needs of Northwest Ohio families with understanding and compassion. Our goal is to create a meaningful funeral or memorial service that is custom fit to each family’s individual wants, needs and budget.

When you select Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, you can rest assured that you will be cared for by people who are caring and knowledgeable. Your family is our priority.

Local families have known us for four generations. They trust us to provide compassionate service and support when the loss of a loved one occurs.

And, they know that funeral, cremation and pet services are available at Bayliff & Son 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout Northwestern Ohio.

Our chapel, conveniently located on Main Street in Cridersville, offers a spacious, comforting atmosphere for your family and guests. We invite you to stop by at any time for a tour and introduction to our funeral and cremation planning services.

Benefits of Planning Ahead

Preplanning your funeral is a loving gesture to those you leave behind.

It saves your family and friends the stress of planning a service during a difficult, emotional time. Your loved ones can support one another at home, rather than making final arrangements at a funeral home.

By making decisions now, you can also save money. Prepaying a funeral locks in today’s prices. You can pay now or later, plan everything, or just certain aspects; it’s all up to you.

At Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, we’ve made it easy for Northwest Ohio families to preplan funeral arrangements. If you are ready to experience the peace of mind gained from planning ahead, then we are ready to assist you.

John E. Bayliff, President

John E. Bayliff was born in Lima and moved to Cridersville when he was 2 years old. He was raised in the funeral home business, first cleaning cars, and then helping the ambulance service. He learned from an early age what it means to offer attentive service to families. John continues to set a daily example of what it means to provide the highest level of personal service to those you serve.

After graduating from Cridersville High School, he attended Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio and graduated from The Cincinnati College of Embalming. John is a member of the National Funeral Directors Association, the Ohio Funeral Directors Association, and the Cremation Association of North America. He was recognized in 2009 by the Ohio Funeral Directors Association for 50 years of service as a licensed funeral professional. John also served for 37 years with the Cridersville Volunteer Fire Department.

John is a member of the Cridersville United Methodist Church. He was a faithful and loving husband to his late wife, Cindy, and has three children, Valery, Chris and Becky. He also has four grandchildren and two great granddaughters and two great grandsons.

SHAWNEE LIFE

Valery Bayliff Fultz, Funeral Director

Valery has been with Bayliff & Son Funeral Home since 1982. She was raised in the funeral home business and lived her entire life in Cridersville. She attended Cridersville Elementary and graduated from Wapakoneta High School and then went on to receive a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Valery holds an Ohio license for preneed insurance. She is married to Gary Fultz and has a daughter from a previous marriage, along with Gary’s four sons from a previous marriage. Valery and Gary also have several grandchildren.

Becky Bayliff, Funeral Director

Becky Bayliff was born in Lima and grew up in Cridersville. She attended Wapakoneta Senior High School and Taylor University. She works with the Ohio Mortuary Response Team, Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team and active with Otterbein Homes.

She attends Cridersville United Methodist Church. She was married to the late Eric Pierson and has one daughter named Lynsey (Dom) Knepper and two stepchildren, Kristi (Jason) Dillon and Deric Wise. She also has six step-grandchildren, Ryan, Megan, Jimmy, Tori, D.J. and Keightlyn, a great granddaughter Everleigh Rose, and several grand puppies.

Angela Knotts, Crematory Manager

Angela Knotts was born in Lima, Ohio, and grew up in Cridersville. She attended Cridersville Elementary and Wapak Middle School and graduated from Elida High School. Angela is also a licensed crematory operator and spends most of her time at Bayliff meeting with families that have lost their beloved fur babies.

Continued from article on page 23. 419-991-4400 CALL TODAY TO CREATE A LOOK YOU'LL LOVE!

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At Cenovus, we are committed to creating positive impacts and to making people’s lives better. In Lima, that means safely and responsibly producing products we use in our daily lives, and strengthening our community as a trusted partner. CENOVUS.COM

Cenovus supports new Ohio State Lima degree, workforce development

face barriers to college education. Some of the funding supported a challenge match, which meant the university was able to increase the impact of the dollars.

The program is growing in its new space, the Engineering Education Manufacturing Center (EEMC), with dedicated lab space and equipment. The center is a partnership between Ohio State and Ford Lima Engine Plant. In 2021, the two announced the agreement to locate the EEMC in the former Ford Lima Engine Plant Training Center and this past fall marked the first semester with classes.

As with many local companies, Cenovus Lima Refinery is always looking for people in technical roles with specialized skills, and we want to support home-grown solutions for us and for regional workforce development in general.

The Ohio State University at Lima is doing just that, launching the Bachelor of Science in Engineering program in Autumn 2020 on three of the university’s regional campuses, including Ohio State Lima. This unique degree was developed to address the gap between education and industry and focuses on industrial manufacturing leadership development. The program integrates teaching and learning with industry examples, laboratory equipment and manufacturing experts as faculty and mentors.

To help launch the program and attract and retain students in the degree, Cenovus provides funding for a guaranteed scholarship; any student enrolled in the program receives the support. To date, Cenovus has provided $37,500 for BSET students and an additional $12,500 for the Lima Opportunity Scholarship, for students who

The program currently has 25 students and will graduate its first class in spring of 2024.

A BSET graduate would be considered for jobs at the refinery in project or reliability engineering; supervisory or planning maintenance roles; and process controls work. One of the refinery’s senior leaders sits on the degree curriculum advisory group and the refinery will host students so they can better understand the refinery career options.

“BSET graduates are continuous learners, problem solvers, and leaders, all good fits for the refinery, where our employees are essential to our operation and we value learning from our performance, empowering a questioning attitude and team backup,” said Dean Hempfling, Acting Vice President, Lima Refinery. “Young people have significant opportunities near their hometowns. We’re fortunate to have first-class education options, such as Ohio State, and really good jobs available here.”

Photos courtesy of The Ohio State University at Lima

First-year students work in the lab during a manufacturing processes 1 class this fall.

Could this be the Purrfect Cat?

Precious Pets

by Georgie Damschroder

By now, many of us have seen the famed “robo dogs” surfacing online. These metallic pooches have been programmed to behave just like living, breathing dogs, some knowing how to roll over or perform other common tricks. But sometimes these robodogs are used differently. For instance, in response to the pandemic of 2020, Singapore enlisted the help of robodogs to keep new social distancing protocols in place, who would navigate their way through public areas and play a recorded message asking for citizens to stay a meter apart. These dogs, collectively known as Spot, are assigned other important tasks as well, such as collecting info on ancient ruins that are too dangerous for humans to explore. And once their hard work is done, they can have a little fun by being programmed to dance. Spot are currently being trained to further help the world in any way they can!

One of the ways we have found mechanical animals help the world is simply by providing their companionship and therapy. Jingles is a grey and white mechanical cat that the O’Neils took home in 2021 just for this reason.

In 2016, Mr. O’Neil suffered a stroke, and Mrs. O’Neil, ready to help her husband recover, attended a stroke clinic. The clinic told her about different ways to help Mr. O’Neil with his recovery, with one of the options being to adopt a robotic cat. Since Mr. O’Neil could no longer care for the real cats that he loved so much, the couple welcomed Jingles into their home, who would indeed become the exact kind of pet they needed.

Jingles is equipped with sensors, which help him to detect when he is being handled and respond accordingly. Just like any other cat, Jingles will meow at his people

and purr when he’s pet. He will turn his head to look around, stand up, blink, and even roll over on his back for belly rubs!

“(He’s) much like the real ones, but doesn’t require any special care or feeding or vet bills to worry about!” Mrs. O’Neil says.

Jingles also feels just like a cat, with soft gray fur that makes it enjoyable to pet and cuddle with him. In fact, Jingles is lifelike enough to fool even a family dog, who began to bark and shy away when he first met Jingles!

Jingles’ ability to react to the love and attention his folks give him allows Mr. O’Neil to experience joy, friendship, and comfort without the stress of a living cat. No litter boxes, shredded furniture, or sharp claws for this family! They also note that Jingles travels exceptionally well.

The O’Neil family consists of Jingles and Mrs. and Mr. O’Neil, who reside together at Sheffield Rise in Shawnee. Though Jingles may not be your average cat, he is appreciated and loved all the same while he continues to help his family with cuddles and purrs!

Loving Legos!

The Joy of LEGO

I didn't have many toys as a kid, so whenever I got to choose a gift for my birthday or Christmas, I usually asked for Legos. Why? Because it's not just a toy…it's the toy that a Lego creator can continually make other toys with. I lived in Trondheim, Norway at 5 years old when I got my first Lego bricks, and they were all the rage in Scandinavia, because Legos are manufactured in Denmark. To this day, it’s a creative outlet to build things with Legos. This red truck was a family Christmas gift to me symbolizing my real black truck “Chuck” last year. There are over 2,000 parts— I’ll have to take it apart and build something else soon! - by Michael J. Ayers

Lego League classes at the Lima YMCA

When I was a kid, Legos were always a “go to” toy and activity. I think Legos are a great medium for kids to really let their imagination go wild. I love being able to give the kids a building prompt and see their creativity flow into their creation. The Lego League Jr. class at the Lima YMCA is an introductory course before the FIRST Lego League program. The kids learn how to build simple machines with gears, wheels, levers, etc. while also using their creativity to make creations of their own. This love for design and building carries over into our FIRST Lego League where the kids are given specific missions to build and for their robot to complete. This year’s mission involves learning about different types of energy sources and where our energy comes from in general. They also build and program their own robot using the Lego EV3 model. With the FIRST Lego League, I have seen kids fall in love with building more challenging structures and a few have also become interested in computer coding.

FIRST Lego League and Lego League Jr. allows kids to explore the possibilities of building and computer programming, but it also incorporates a lot of STEM learning. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, and is something we try and involve in a lot of our youth programs. This can help the kids progress into other programs we offer for high schoolers like robotics. Lego League Jr. (ages 6-9) is just to get the kids used to building, introduce them to simple moving components, and work together as a team. FIRST Lego League (ages 9-14) gets more into introductory robotics, challenging builds, and has specific challenges for the kids to complete.

FIRST Lego League is on Mondays from 5pm-6:30pm and Lego League Jr. is on Tuesdays from 5pm-6pm. Call the YMCA at 419-223-6045 to register for the next session!

- by Taylor Shimp, Lima Y.M.C.A.

Is There An Opportune Time to Convert Your Traditional IRA to a ROTH IRA?

As a small business owner, tax planning is even more important. On top of wearing multiple hats from general manager, HR, payroll, bookkeeper, and production management, small business owners also must worry about their own personal tax situation. Many times, this is overlooked and neglected until January comes around.

apply to your normal income plus the traditional IRA amount being converted.

Of course, if in 2022 you have abnormally lower income, that could make the conversion tax even less. The following table includes the marginal tax rates for 2022.

If your traditional IRA is invested in stocks and/or mutual funds, the recent substantial downward slide by the stock markets may provide a unique opportunity to convert your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA at a low cost, and then benefit when the markets recover.

Why would you want to do that? Because Roth IRA distributions provide tax free retirement benefits while payouts from Traditional IRAs are taxable.

Of course there is no assurance that the markets will not continue to decline, and this may not be the most opportune time to make a conversion in your specific circumstances but is something you may want to consider. Conversions provide the most benefit to younger individuals who can look forward to many years of the tax-free growth provided by a Roth IRA.

You don’t have to convert all of your traditional IRA in one year. You can convert what you can afford to pay the tax on each year.

Here Is How It Works – The tax code allows individuals to convert any portion of their traditional IRA to a Roth IRA by paying tax on the conversion as though taking a distribution from the traditional account. Thus, if you make a conversion you are taxed on the conversion based upon the tax rates that

Other Issues:

• There is no income limitation on making a conversion, thus anyone can do a conversion.

• Higher income taxpayers can use the conversion to circumvent the AGI limits for contributing to a Roth IRA.

• Once a conversion is made it cannot be undone.

• Some individuals for various reasons have made non-deductible contributions to their traditional IRAs. For distribution or conversion purposes, all an individual’s IRAs (except Roth IRAs) are considered as one account and any distribution or converted amounts are deemed taken ratably from the deductible and non-deductible portions of the traditional IRA, and the portion that comes from the deductible contributions would be taxable.

Give our office a call if you would like to explore the possible benefits of a traditional to Roth IRA conversion.

Deifendeifer Accounting has been in business for over 60 years. Gene Deifendeifer founded the firm in 1961. Later in 1993, his son Steve joined the firm, and in 2012, his granddaughter Anca joined the team.

The firm specializes in working with only small businesses such as many within the local community. The team works exclusively for business clients, as well as their owners to provide the best possible service. Business owners are encouraged to be proactive when it comes to their business rather than reactive. This helps them make more money and enjoy their business, while they maximize their wealth.

DEIFENDEIFER ACCOUNTING www.LimaCPA.com Office: 419-222-6355 Info@LimaCPA.com

Picture Perfect Portugal

Travel Tales

My husband’s love language is definitely TRAVEL! We are often looking for new adventures and places to explore both domestically and internationally. After hearing so much about Portugal lately we decided to see what all the buzz was about. Let me tell you - if Portugal was not on your travel bucket list before now, go grab a pen and rewrite your list!

We started our adventure in Porto!

Scenery and Overall Feel:

One of the first things to understand is Porto is divided by the Douro River and connected by the Dom Luis Bridge and of course walking across is a “must do” activity with great views of the river and architecture. All the beautiful cathedrals, historical landmarks, and pretty Portuguese buildings are all on one side. The other side is where all the port cellars are.

From its cobblestone streets to its colorful tiled houses and stucco rooftops, Porto is literally picture perfect in every way.

Food and Drink:

• Life’s short – Dessert First!

Pasteis De Nata is the national desert of Portugal and it is divine. This custard pastry doesn’t look very appetizing from the pictures but it’s quite divine! I had too many to count while visiting and I may have enjoyed four of them the night we left.

• The Main Dish -

I was immediately attracted to the facade and cobblestone streets of Porto. Porto is Portugal’s second largest city and is so incredibly picturesque!

We were told we must eat Franceschina. It is one of the most traditional and talked about dishes in Porto. It is essentially a sandwich with thin steak, sausage, ham, and melted cheese, all cooked in a thick tomato and meat sauce. As if this heavy meaty rich dish was not enough on its own, Dino decided to add an egg on top of it!

Kitchen, BEFORE

• The best for last – THE WINE!!

You probably already know this but Porto is famous for its Port wine. This is the fortified dessert wine that has become famous worldwide. All of the major port makers are in and

Submitted by Jess & Dino Moler of Keresan Trail

around Porto. You will see from the Dom Luis Bridge all the numerous signs representing different wineries.

The grapes for port wine are grown in the Douro Valley. And if you love drinking port and wine, why not go straight to the source and be among the beautiful vineyards of the Douro Valley. The Douro Valley with its dozens of stunning wineries is only 2 hours by train away from Porto. And this is where we spent the second half of our amazing trip!

I really have never had fondness for Port in the past but “when in Rome,” so we booked a tour with one of the many vineyards that offer Port tours. This allowed me to learn a lot about the history and the winemaking process and how Port is fortified and aged. Then of course, we went to taste yet more Port wine. And I must say that I developed quite a fondness for some of the ports. We were also introduced to a white wine called vinho verde which has become my new favorite! While I’m no wine connoisseur, I would describe this wine as a green wine, a touch of fizzy, and mostly dry. I have several bottles that have been added to my home collection if anyone wants to stop by to try a glass.

And while the tours and tastings were all amazing, the scenery in the Douro Valley was just breathtaking. From the mountains to the Douro River, and rows upon rows of grapevines and olive trees, this was certainly a trip that we highly recommend to all of our Shawnee Life neighbors and friends.

Amazing Achievers

Lima Central Catholic Annual Retreats

by Paige Brinkman, Lima Central Catholic Senior

Every year at Lima Central Catholic, students go on a retreat with their class and each grade has a different retreat. These retreats focus on building relationships with your class and with God.

Freshman students go to Camp Clay at the beginning of the year. They spend the day swimming in the pond, playing games, doing exercises to build relationships, while creating a bond with their class. When at Camp Clay, students are split into two groups. One group does kayaking or paddle boating, goes swimming in the pond, plays on inflatables, and goes on the zip line. The second group goes off to do games with the staff running the retreat. The students play games that help them learn more about their class and that focus on teamwork. After lunch, everyone switches activities. The freshman retreat is used as a time to create new friendships with the classmates they will be with for the next four years. While on the retreat, I created many memories and friendships with my class that I still hold on to today.

The sophomore retreat and junior retreat are held at our school’s campus. These retreats are smaller but still have a big impact. The sophomore retreat, like the freshman retreat, encourages students to get to know their class and to let their class know who they are. The junior retreat focuses more on a relationship with God. This retreat is run by Net Ministries College Students. They go from school to school to share the word of God. When the retreat begins, they split the juniors into small groups. When with their group, students talk about God. One part I remember the most from the retreat is when we shared where we were at with God and when we learned how to strengthen our relationship with God. These retreats were fun, but not as much fun as the senior retreat.

The senior retreat is called Kairos, which means “God’s time” or a time when conditions are right for the accomplishment of a crucial action. Kairos is a four-day retreat at Maria Stein in Mercer County. This retreat is student-led by class leaders. In order to be a leader, students have to fill out an application and have an interview as a junior. If selected as a leader, they go on the retreat as a junior with the senior class. They go as a junior so that they can experience the retreat and then, as a senior, they can lead their class retreat. Billy Bourk attended as a junior this year and said, “I loved it, it was a very eye-opening experience.”

The point of Kairos is to get to know your classmates on a deeper level, learn about your own faith journey, and deepen your relationship with God. At Kairos, the leaders and adult leaders give a witness talk. These talks are a story from the

2022 Senior Leadership Team

Top left to right: Gabe Cira, Oli Bruno, Matt Cira, Ben Siatkosky, Sal Guagenti

Bottom left to right: Olivia Stolly, McKenna Bader, Paige Brinkman, Ashlyn Lee, Blythe Nickels

leader about their life and faith journey that shows how God was with them or how they found God. Every story is different, but many of the students can often relate to someone’s story in some way. They then split into small groups where they reflect on the talks and everything that goes on at Kairos. This is a time to share personal thoughts and all that is shared in the small group, stays in their small group. Along with the witness talks and small group time, seniors will also attend mass, adoration, penance, play games, and have a chance to share their own story or experience. There are also many more fun surprises that I cannot share, but they are definitely the most impactful parts of the retreat. These four days and three nights allow students to grow closer to each and every one of their classmates. Each year,

the senior class and junior leaders come back from the retreat with a weight lifted off their shoulders, a closer bond with each other and God, and many memories they will never forget.

As a senior student at Lima Central Catholic, it is easy to say that these retreats have been one of the best and most memorable parts of each year. Bridget Mulcahy said, “It was great, we grew closer as a class and to God.” Christian Marks shared that, “It was fun getting to know other students in a different way. The retreat taught me how to open up and share my feelings. I am so glad I went!” Each retreat has a different impact and as I get older, the impacts have grown bigger and bigger. My senior class just went to Kairos this past November, and we all learned so much about each other. You think you know a lot about a person, but you really only know the surface. Each person has something deeper to them and getting to know that about the people in your class really helps you grow a stronger bond. I created bonds with people I don’t normally talk to and I can now say we are friends. Kairos has become one of my all-time favorite high school memories and I will never forget the fun times I had with my class.

Kairos Senior Retreat, November, 2022

Chapel at Maria Stein

Chinese Stir Fry

with Beef, Tofu & vegetables

From the Kitchen of Ricky & Anca Qin on Atalan Trail in Indianbrook

From the Kitchen of Ricky and Anca Qin on Atalan Trail in Indianbrook

by Janine Douglass

This month, Ricky Qin, whose mother, Yanyan Barrett, brought him to this country from China when he was 16 years old, offers this, what may be an exotic recipe to some, because it features tofu. Tofu, which originated in China, is made of condensed soy milk that’s processed into solid white blocks in a process similar to cheese making. Ricky and his wife, Anca, both cook, and know the soy in tofu provides an excellent source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. And tofu itself is naturally gluten-free and low in calories. Traditional meat lovers will relish the pairing of beef with the tofu for flavor and nutrition.

Chinese New Year is celebrated on January 22, 2023. This is the Year of the Rabbit, according to the Chinese Lunar Calendar.

Prep time: 20 minutes.

Cook time: 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pkg firm organic tofu

• 1 lb sirloin beef

• 1 yellow onion

• 5 stalks of celery

• 2 bell peppers

• 2 Tbsp soy sauce

• 8 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp garlic powder

Meat Marinade:

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp pepper

• 1 tsp thyme

• 1 tsp parsley flakes

• 1 tsp cumin powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 2 Tbsp water

Directions:

Cut tofu into quarter inch thick squares. Slice beef into 1/8th inch thickness. Mix salt, pepper, thyme, parsley flakes, cumin powder, garlic powder and water to create the marinade. Let the beef sit in the marinade mixture for 15 minutes. Chop celery, onion and bell peppers into small cubes or chunks.

Ricky Qin and his mother, Yanyan Barrett

Cooking:

Warm a frying pan with 3 Tbsp olive oil, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sear the tofu on medium heat until golden brown. Turn the tofu over, back and forth during the process a few times so both sides can be heated evenly. While the tofu is frying, stir fry the beef in a separate wok or pan with 2 Tbsp of olive oil on high heat. When the beef is medium done, take it out and set aside. Use the juice left over from cooking the beef and pour the chopped vegetables into that same wok/pan. Stir fry the vegetables with 3 Tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp of salt and 1 tsp of garlic powder. When the vegetables are at your desired crispiness or tenderness, add the beef and tofu back into the wok/pan and turn the heat on high to stir fry until sizzling. Add 2 Tbsp of soy sauce and mix well before serving.

May be served with rice. Shrimp may be substi tuted for beef.

If there is a musty smell in my basement does that

automatically mean I have mold and if so what can be done?

A musty smell in a basement is usually a sign that something is going on that needs to be corrected. The smell of mildew usually means that moisture is present, either from a leaking basement or a high humidity situation. Purchasing a small humidistat from Lowes will tell you if the air in the basement is causing a smell. You should maintain a relative humidity reading in the 50 to 55 percent area. If you see water or patches of mold, I would recommend getting a professional to inspect the premises.

Send us your questions at Diane@ShawneeLife.com and we’ll feature the answer in an upcoming issue!

Sports Superstars

Shawnee Boys Win State Soccer Championship!

by Mindy Molaski,

Schools Correspondent

The third time was a charm for the 2022 Shawnee boys soccer team. Going to state semifinals in 2001 when coach Ryan Quatman played, and again in 2020 where he coached, both teams fell short to travel to Columbus for the State Finals. This team though, they made it. And they won it!

The championship game was played at the Columbus Crew Stadium on November 13, 2022. It was a chilly night, but the spirit and excitement in the stadium was far from cold. Shawnee Nation showed up with the boys. As Coach Quatman told the community, they were the “twelfth man” and they brought it. The student section kept the spirit alive the entire game, starting chants and keeping the rest of the crowd cheering.

With the regulation game ending with a 0-0 score after 80 minutes of play, both teams were ready for overtime. Another 15 minutes would be added to the clock. The team was ready, the coaches remained calm, and the fans were on their feet. It was a new game; first to score would win. Another 15 minutes passed without a score. Let’s keep going. Add one more 15-minute overtime. 0-0. Next up, penalty kicks. Best of five, wins the game and takes home the state championship. With Jack Tenwalde in the goalie box, Coach Quatman was confident in the penalty kicks. Both teams missed their first kick. Bexley, the opposing team, made the next one. That would be the only goal that made it past Tenwalde. Shawnee’s first kick was blocked, but the next three got where they needed to be - past the goalie. Shawnee Soccer won its first ever State Championship!

Being on a team in high school brings a “family feel” to the players, especially after the time spent at practices, at games, in the locker room, and on the bus. They are all together...a lot. Having four sets of siblings (all of whom are varsity starters) on the team brings a whole new meaning to feeling like a family. Four families and eight siblings experienced the excitement of this season together, and this story will be told many times and for many years to come. They were lucky to share this with their team family, and their own family.

Top

Middle

Bottom

The team ended the season with a 21-1-1 record, the 4th straight WBL title, and the State Championship. Thank you to the 2022 Shawnee boys soccer team for a great ride!

Images courtesy of Brian Scheid

Shawnee

row: Sam Tenwalde, Collin Scheid, Noah Neth, Austin Miller, Josh Myers, August LaGrande, Hunter Drury, Ethan Sargent, Coda Miller, Noah Scheid, Connor Hoops

row: Alex McGuire, Drew Neidemire, Connor Latham, Aaron Lea, Aidan Latham, Mason Latham

row: Ethan Parlapiano, Luca Fusillo, Ethan Rosebeck, Sam Tenwalde, Matteo Fusillo, Adam Jmiai, Rhett Frasier, Tate Bender, Caleb Miller

Four sets of siblings: (top row): Noah & Collin Scheid, Sam & Jack Tenwalde, Austin Miller, Matteo Fusillo (bottom row): Caleb Miller & Luca Fusillo

Andrew, Jenn, Abby, Hannah, and A.J. found their perfect home close to family and friends. Andrew is a Sales Manager for a German company called Hella and Jenn is Director of Benefits for Valvoline.

Abby (8) is in 2nd Grade at Shawnee Elmwood and her sister Hannah (7) also attends Elmwood in the 1st Grade. Sweet little A.J. (3) enjoys spending his day at Tiny Tech.

As a family, one of their favorite travel spots is Lakeside by Port Clinton/Sandusky. They also love to go swimming, especially since Abby and Hannah are pros, and bike riding together. Make sure to say hello if you see them out and about!