Shawnee Life - March 2024

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Know Your Neighbors: The Jmiai Family March 2024
of Us
The Story
Your Neighborhood Brokerage CowanRealtors.com Mark’s Maid Service is a family-owned business that wants to meet the expectation of excellence every single time! We specialize in: • Recurring Cleaning • One-Time & occasional Cleaning • Move In/Out Cleaning • Ready-To-Sell Cleaning • Holiday/Event Cleaning • Residential Cleaning • Light Commercial Cleaning Visit our website at marksmaidservice.com or call us at 419.604.0298 to request a free in-home estimate! 2 • MARCH 2024 SHAWNEE LIFE

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

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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.

AMUSEMENT

Sky Zone Trampoline Park (419) 549-5818

APPLIANCES

Tracy’s Appliances (419) 223-4786

Westrich Furniture & Appliances (419) 695-6045

BAKERY

Sara’s Sweets (419) 371-4745

BUILDING RESTORATION EXPERTS

Trisco Systems (419) 339-3906

CANCER CARE / ONCOLOGY

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

CEMETERY & MAUSOLEUMS

Gethsemani Cemetery (419) 233-0484

CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES

Gillis Chiropractic Clinic

Lima (419) 228-0000

Cridersville (419) 645-5555

CLEANING SERVICES

Mark’s Maid Service (419) 604-0298

Northwest Ohio Kwik Dry (419) 701-2081

CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES

Modish Maven (419) 581-7926

Twelve Oak Boutique (419) 773-0050

CUSTOM HOME BUILDER / REMODELING

Architon (419) 303-7138

DONATION PICK UP

Habitat for Humanity

Lima ReStore (419) 222-4937

EDUCATION

Languages & Tutoring Academy (800) 575-7500

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

Brunk Electric (800) 642-8942

FOOD & DRINK

Good Food Restaurants

Beer Barrel, Happy Daz, Old City Prime, Sycamore (419) 991-5346

Padrone’s Pizza Lima West (419) 331-3111

Purple Feet Wine Boutique (567) 940-9944

Schoony’s @ Elmview Pub (419) 991-4821

FUNERAL HOME Bayliff & Son (419) 645-4501

FURNITURE

Tracy’s Appliances (419) 223-4786

Westrich Furniture & Appliances (419) 695-6045

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Fresh Press Threads (419) 405-6575

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Mercy Health – St. Rita’s (419) 227-3361

HEATING & AIR

Cleaves American Heating & Air (419) 227-4328

Washam Plumbing, Heating & Air (419) 339-0729

INSURANCE

Beery Insurance Services (419) 228-4000

INTERIOR DESIGN

Deborah’s Interiors (419) 991-4400

JEWELER

Vons Diamonds & Jewelry (419) 227-5616

LAWN CARE

Select Lawn Care Services (419) 204-4498

LEASING LOFTS & BUSINESS SPACE

Kelly Martino (419) 604-2356

MANUFACTURERS & INDUSTRY

Cenovus Energy Lima Refinery (419) 226-2300

ORTHODONTIC SERVICES

Orthodontic Associates

Lima (419) 229-8771

Celina (419) 586-6195

Ottawa (419) 523-4014

PET MEMORIAL SERVICES

Bayliff & Son (419) 645-4501

PHOTOGRAPHY

The Ayers, Inc. (419) 236-8418

PLUMBING

Washam Plumbing Heating & Air (419) 339-0729

POOL CARE & INSTALLATION

Shawnee Pools (419) 999-1505

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Busy B Realty (419) 371-4633

REALTORS

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

WINDOW TREATMENTS

Affordable Window Fashions (419) 991-4400

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March

CONT ENTS

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MAKING A MARK: THE LIMA MUSIC ACADEMY

6 FROM DIANE’S DESK

A message from the publisher, Diane Schoonover.

15 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.

16 TALK OF THE TOWN

See how our sponsors and writing tribe are appreciated.

21 MERCY MATTERS

Learn how Mercy Health supports the community and provides high-quality hometown care.

22 MAKING A MARK

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

24 SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

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

26 SPECIAL FEATURE

Our very own photographer adds a special title to his impressive list of accomplishments.

8 KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS: GET TO KNOW THE JMIAI FAMILY

28 PRECIOUS PETS

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

32 AMAZING ACHIEVERS

Our Junior Writers and special school correspondents share stories about successful students, athletes, or events in local schools.

34 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.

36 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 your family’s goals.

39 WELCOME WAGON

Our sponsors love to welcome new families to the Shawnee area! If you have a new neighbor, let them know about the free welcome basket!

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SOLAR ECLIPSE 2024: LEARN ABOUT THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE ECLIPSE

From Diane’s Desk...

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Famous author, Victoria Holt once said, “I’ve always thought you’ve got to believe in luck to get it.” I believe that wholeheartedly, along with the idea that if you dream it you can achieve it. I wish all of the readers of Shawnee Life Magazine a Happy St. Patrick’s Day and hope that you will raise a glass filled with your favorite beverage and CHEERS to this lucky life we have each been given!

Please keep the magazine in mind when you have a story, article to share, or a business you want to advertise! Feel free to contact me at Diane@ShawneeLife. com with your ideas.

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MEET THE TRIBE
Diane Schoonover Publisher / Advertising Michael Ayers Photographer Janine Douglass DISH-cussions Georgianna Damschroder Precious Pets & Amazing Achievers Julie Lundin Know Your Neighbor Nicole Davis Welcome Wagon & Mercy Matters Tara Reynolds Bales Talk of the Town Lifestyle Libby Simmons Amazing Achievers
Burton’s Ridge complies 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 Come Join the Burton’s Ridge Family Burton’s Ridge is more than just an Assisted Living. We provide the comforts of home in our assisted living community, along with having a secure and safe memory care neighborhood. Whether you are looking for a place to call home, specialized memory care support, or a respite stay, we are here for you! Burton’s Ridge is located in a serene wooded area with breathtaking views located close to shopping and restaurants. Let us help you find that perfect apartment you have always been dreaming of. 2651 Ft. Amanda Road, Lima Ohio • (419) 228-8412 www.BurtonsRidge.com Contact Burton’s Ridge to schedule your own personal tour: (419) 228-8412. MARCH 2024 • 7 SHAWNEE LIFE
Mr. March Madness

Meet the Jmiai Family!

Know Your Neighbors

Meet the Jmiai family of Morning Sun Drive in Breezewood: Imed and Lilia, along with their children Adam, Tayma, Harroun, and Taym. The Jmiais have lived on Morning Sun for the past five years and thoroughly enjoy living in their Shawnee neighborhood. They love the beautiful woods and river in their backyard, as well as going on long walks together, especially in the late spring and fall seasons. In addition to walking their neighborhood, the Jmiai family enjoys hiking, playing in the rain, and taking vacations to Tunisia.

Imed is originally from Tunisia, which is the northernmost country in Africa. He is a math professor at The Ohio State University - Lima, and a co-owner of Sky Zone Lima. Lilia is also from Tunisia (she grew up in an exquisite little village by the Mediterranean Sea) and she is the owner of the Lan-

guages and Tutoring Academy here in Lima on Cable Road. When they came to the United States, they both brought their Mediterranean culture with them! Lilia said, “I am an old style mom and I still have to cook every day, especially when I use my mother and grandmother’s recipes.” In fact, they prefer staying home to eat Lilia’s Mediterranean cooking to going out to eat in restaurants. During the holy month of Ramadan the Jmiai family invites friends and family members to their house for iftar, which is a large dinner that is eaten at sundown after fasting all day.

Although the Jmiais are not Ohio natives, they are definitely Buckeye fans! Of course Imed is an Ohio State professor, so he roots for the Bucks! The kids cannot miss any games or events that are related to Ohio State! In fact, Imed and Lilia’s eldest son, Adam, will graduate from OSU next year with a degree in biology. He then plans on attending medical school. Adam and Tayma are twins and are 16-years-old. They both play soccer, run cross-country, and are on the track and field team at Shawnee High School. In addition, they are both part of the C2K Lima Striders Track Club. Also playing soccer are Har-

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roun, who is 15 years old, and Taym, who is 11. All four kids attended Shawnee until last year when Imed and Lilia decided to homeschool their children. Lilia shares that, “Homeschooling my kids has been the most rewarding experience of my life! As a parent, I enjoy homeschooling my kids because I get to spend more time with three unique and interesting people who happen to be my children.” She admits it has been hard at times, but still worth doing. They are grateful that their kids have plenty of friends through sports and social events, so they don’t feel deprived of “school” friends, which can be a concern for some people.

Each of the family members have been involved in the Lima community for many years. Imed and Lilia have volunteered their time coaching various youth sports, which gives them a lot of pleasure helping to develop character in the youth of Lima. Lilia is multilingual as she speaks English, French, Arabic and Italian. She is called upon by our courts and several other organizations as an interpreter. In addition, Lilia enjoys volunteering at the local schools.

These last few months have been an exciting time for the Jmiais with the opening of Sky Zone, an indoor trampoline park. In the past they would always drive to the Sky Zones in Dayton or Toledo to celebrate their kids’ birthdays. Imed decided that it was time for Lima to have an exciting and unique place for kids and adults to go and have fun! “It is the first active entertainment business of its kind in our area. We are looking forward to bringing our community together, providing jobs, and contributing to the growth of Lima,” stated Imed. In addition to this new business adventure, Lilia started the Languages and Tutoring Academy in 2015. This stimulating, one-on-one K-12 tutoring program is designed to fit the needs of each student; mainly focusing on their academic, language, and behavioral needs. Foreign language classes in Spanish, Arabic, Italian, Japanese, Chinese and French are also possible through individual or small group sessions.

With St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner, Lilia believes that it is vital for Americans to celebrate and embrace all of the diverse cultures in our own community. Each year the Jmiais decorate their house with shamrocks, and all of the family members dress in green and go to the parade downtown. “We have an amazing time celebrating the heritage and culture of the Irish people, even though my husband and I aren’t even the tiniest bit Irish!” said Lilia. “We are very honored to live in an area that appreciates the beauty of different cultures.”

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TOTAL ECLIPSE 2024

Q & A with Craig H. Williams, NASA Senior Aerospace Engineer

1. What do you do as a Senior Aerospace Engineer at NASA’s Glenn Research Center?

I have three assignments:

- Co-Chairman of Propellant Transfer Working Group for Human Landing System program

- Senior Advisor to GRC support to NASA In-Situ Resource Utilization program

- Senior Advisor to GRC support to DARPA Nuclear Thermal Rocket program

2. Why is the world so fascinated by a solar eclipse and why is this 2024 eclipse so notable?

This total eclipse will cross much of the eastern and midwestern United States, something that has happened only 21 times since the founding of our nation. The path of totality will cross half of Ohio. Because of the geometry of this eclipse, major population centers throughout the country, university astronomers, and scientific institutions will be able to easily observe and study this event. The last total solar eclipse visible in Ohio was in 1806, and the next one will not occur until 2099.

In addition, because of the orbital geometry this year, the Moon will be closer to the Earth than the eclipse of 2017. This means the duration of this year’s eclipse will be approximately double and the sky will be darker, thereby enabling a more spectacular show. Also, because of the Sun’s nearness to the peak of its 11-year cycle (“solar max”), its corona (atmosphere) will be more active. This means there will be greater potential for plasma “streamers” and coronal mass ejections, where plasma trapped on magnetic field lines can be seen dramatically shooting into space. Understanding the physics of the interaction between the Sun’s corona with Earth’s atmosphere is essential in the study of disruptions of terrestrial communication systems and our power grids, as well as climate change caused by the Sun. Many of these scientific studies can best be done (or in some cases can only be done) through terrestrial observations of eclipses.

3. Why do total solar eclipses occur?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting the moon’s shadow on Earth. This rarely happens because the moon doesn’t orbit in the exact same plane as the Sun and Earth do.

4. Where will the 2024 total eclipse be visible in Ohio?

Visibility in Ohio ranges from SW to NE Ohio with a width of 125 miles. In Ohio, one of the points of greatest duration will be Avon Lake. A dozen states between Texas to New York will be in the path of visibility.

5. When will the eclipse begin and end in our area?

In Lima, Ohio, a partial eclipse will begin at 1:54 pm EDT. Totality begins at 3:09 pm, with maximum totality occurring at 3:11 pm. Totality ends at 3:13 pm, followed by a partial eclipse that will end at 4:26 pm.

https://ema.ohio.gov/media-publications/ohio-total-solar-eclipse

Solar Eclipse
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eclipse.ohio.gov

6. Do you have any safety tips we should know about?

YES, according to https://eclipse.ohio.gov/view-it-safely these are the guidelines to follow:

- It is never safe to look directly at the sun’s rays, even if the sun is partially obscured.

- The only safe way to look directly at an eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as eclipse glasses or hand-held solar viewers.

- Homemade filters or ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe for looking at the sun. They transmit thousands of times too much sunlight and could damage the eyes.

- Always inspect your solar filter before use; if scratched or damaged, discard it. Read and follow any instructions printed on or packaged with the filter.

- Always supervise children using solar filters.

- Stand still and cover your eyes with your eclipse glasses or solar viewer before looking up at the bright sun. After looking at the sun, turn away and remove your filter —do not remove it while looking at the sun.

- Do not look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or other optical device.

- Similarly, do not look at the sun through a camera, a telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device while using your eclipse glasses or hand-held solar viewer – the concentrated solar rays will damage the filter and enter your eye(s), causing serious injury.

7. Do you recommend any activities for children in case it is cloudy?

Children could be invited to create a video of the illumination changes or record the sound of behavioral changes in animals. They could also do experiments where they take atmospheric measurements every 10 seconds of air temperature, air pressure and ambient light. It will be possible to watch the eclipse livestreamed online. And of course you could play appropriate music at an eclipse party like: “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers, “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden, “Eclipse” by Pink Floyd, and “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler.

(Source: The Transylvania Times, 2017)

8. How will NASA celebrate this year’s eclipse and what will you be doing on that day?

The Great Lakes Science Center is partnering with NASA’s Glenn Research Center and The Cleveland Orchestra from April 6-8 for Total Eclipse Fest 2024, which is a free, threeday celestial celebration at North Coast Harbor in downtown Cleveland. I will be at one of the observation sites on the centerline of totality.

Moon’s Orbit Around Earth and Its Phases (not to scale)

NASA Glenn Research Center
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Geometry of a Solar Eclipse

WE’RE A CANADIAN-BASED INTEGRATED ENERGY COMPANY HEADQUARTERED IN CALGARY. WE ENERGIZE THE WORLD TO MAKE PEOPLE’S LIVES BETTER.

And, we’re growing in Ohio. We’re now the state’s largest refiner, sustainably providing products needed for everyday living: gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and asphalt. We employ more than 1,000 people at our Lima Refinery, Toledo Refinery, and our marketing office in Dublin. We also have opportunities for students and new graduates.

To learn more about Cenovus, including career opportunities, visit cenovus.com/careers.

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Women in leadership share stories of resilience and give career-building advice

Add up the experience among them, and it’s an astonishing 118 years. That tenure, added to gained wisdom and grit, made for an educational and entertaining Lima Refinery kickoff event for the Stronger Together W@CVE Inclusion and Diversity network.

As the refinery establishes local I&D network groups, Stronger Together’s first event featured a panel of long-tenured women employees at the refinery, with a Q&A about how they have not just survived, but thrived in their careers.

Supply Chain Management U.S. Downstream Projects Manager Brenda Heuerman, Senior Turnaround Planner Vaune Glorioso, Business, Engineering and Operational Excellence Manager Pam Morris and Senior Manager for Contract Performance Julie Quatman did some great storytelling and gave useful advice.

When Quatman started at the refinery 21 years ago, she joined one other female engineer, and none in leadership. She remembered an instance early in her career when she felt patronized; she responded with confidence, knowing that she was a subject matter expert who deserved respect. Years later, much has changed, with the demographics of refinery employees, and approach to managing people for Quatman, now a senior manager.

“I manage with empathy. You don’t know what someone is going through,” Julie said. “But I also have learned to be comfortable with a decision. If I give something good thought, and I articulate the why behind it, then I can stand by it.”

Glorioso has been with the refinery more than 40 years, starting as a laborer when she was 18. Along the way, she earned a bachelor’s degree and an MBA, while becoming an operations supervisor. While she more recently joined the Turnaround group as a senior planner, her heart will always be with operations. She recalled great teams and couldn’t think of an instance of being mistreated.

Vaune recalled a time early in her career when she had made a mistake on paperwork sent to a regulator. Trembling, she told her supervisor, who simply said, “Well, how can you fix it?” She already had a solution, an addendum she could file. Someone supporting her and helping her learn, rather than taking a punitive approach, has helped guide her as a leader.

“I’ve always treated people the way I want to be treated, and that has worked,” she said.

Heuerman talked about women needing to trust themselves and their abilities and be ready for new challenges.

“You’re in your role for a reason. Trust yourself, and be ready for what’s next,” Brenda said. “I have a picture in my office that says, ‘If you’re not riding the wave of change, you’ll find yourself beneath it.’ I’ve carried it all of my career. You have to be ready to accept the next challenge.”

All professionals, but many women, can experience something called “Imposter Syndrome,” the feeling of anxiousness, selfdoubt or inadequacy despite being a high performer. Morris had advice for navigating those feelings.

“There can be a lot of pressure to be successful. People depend on us to do our jobs,” Pam said. “I do something for myself and something that’s externally facing. First, I slow down, with a technique – stop, breathe, notice, reflect, respond. Then – I’m a technical person; I love numbers. Focus on the value you add and quantify the value you add. Remind yourself that it’s a journey and growth is growth. Stretch yourself and then give yourself credit for how far you’ve come.”

MARCH 2024 • 15 SHAWNEE LIFE Cenovus Says
Kala Helms, Senior Advisor, Supply Chain Management, U.S. Downstream Projects, (far left) and Danielle Bockrath, Senior Capital Planning Engineer, (far right) have organized a Stronger Together with W@CVE network at Lima Refinery. The first event was a panel of long-tenured women at the refinery, including Supply Chain Management U.S. Downstream Projects Manager Brenda Heuerman, Senior Turnaround Planner Vaune Glorioso, Business, Engineering and Operational Excellence Manager Pam Morris and Senior Manager for Contract Performance Julie Quatman.

Talk of the Town

An Intriguing Musical Triptych

Lima Symphony Orchestra’s Music by Candlelight Concerts

The annual “Music by Candlelight” concert of the Lima Symphony Orchestra (LSO) is a visually and musically stunning experience. There is something magical about being in a church or historic venue lit exclusively by nearly 300 real candles, and being in close physical proximity to the musicians. It is intimate, meditative, reflective, and profoundly beautiful.

These Candlelight concerts always begin on Saturday at Trinity United Methodist Church in Lima, and the Sunday performance is always outside of Lima. The concerts demonstrate LSO’s commitment to serving the entire region and to bringing music to people in their home communities. This year’s Sunday Candlelight concert was held in the Grand Opera House in St. Marys.

The program for both concerts consisted of “Umoja” by Valerie Coleman, “Serenade No. 2, Op. 16” by Johannes Brahms, and “Serenade, Op. 44” by Antonín Dvořák.

Valerie Coleman’s “Umoja”, an anthem for unity, is contemporary and vibrant. “Umoja” means “unity” in Swahili; the score is characterized by its rhythmic complexity, use of traditional African-American musical idioms, and evocative melodies. The piece often serves as a bridge, connecting the traditional classical music audience with more modern, diverse musical influences, making it a pivotal work in contemporary classical music.

Johannes Brahms’s “Serenade No. 2, Op. 16” offers a warm, rich texture. It embodies the Romantic era’s ideals with its lush

harmonies, expansive melodies, and emotional depth. Though its historical and stylistic roots differ markedly from “Umoja”, both pieces demonstrate melodic expressiveness and emotional resonance – perfect for an intimate setting in candlelight.

Antonín Dvořák’s “Serenade, Op. 44” is known for its pastoral mood, folk influences, and lyrical melodies. Its connection to folk music provides a subtle link to Coleman’s incorporation of African-American musical traditions, while its Romantic roots align it closely with Brahms’s Serenade.

Together, these three pieces form an intriguing musical triptych. Coleman’s contemporary “Umoja” fuses cultural influences, redefining the boundaries of classical music. Brahms’s “Serenade No. 2” anchors the group in the rich traditions and emotional depth of the Romantic era, while Dvořák’s “Serenade” bridges these worlds with its folk-inspired melodies. Each piece, with its distinct voice and historical context, contributes to a diverse and dynamic concert program, inviting listeners to explore the evolving landscape of classical music through different eras and perspectives.

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Trinity United Methodist Church, Lima

What’s Happening at Lima’s Civic Center!

$5 Admission

60-Foot Movie Screen

Cash Concessions & Drinks

The Civic Center Foundation’s Groupie Movie Series is bringing family favorite classics to their 60-foot screen for the 2023-24 Season! The Foundation hosts this affordable series for the community to experience different kinds of entertainment in Crouse Performance Hall. Cash concessions and drinks will be available for purchase.

WIN 4 TICKETS TO THE NEXT GROUPIE MOVIE AT THE CIVIC CENTER!

To enter the drawing, email your name and contact info to Diane@ShawneeLife.com OR comment on the movie post on Shawnee Life Magazine’s Facebook page BY MARCH 5th!

One of the largest touring illusion shows, Champions of Magic, made its way to Lima in January. My nine-year-old son, Evan, and his ten-year-old friend, Owen, accompanied me to this super entertaining performance at the Civic Center. Five world class illusionists held our attention the entire time. This was one of the first productions where my son didn’t lean over to me after 15 minutes to ask how much longer the show was going to last, so I knew this was going to be a hit early on.

Strange was the name of the performer that proved to be one of everyone’s favorite acts with his repeat performance throughout the night of the chorus from a Limp Bizkit and Snoop Dogg song, “Red Light, Green Light.” He magically made his fingers light up with a red or a green light, whenever the song prompted him, causing the audience to laugh out loud. Conveniently they also sold this magic trick during intermission. Evan enjoyed the escape artist, Fernando, while he tried to get out of Houdini’s Water Torture Cell and out of a straightjacket before the extremely sharp Jaws of Death snapped down on him. Owen found Alex’s comic performance in the lion suit to be his favorite part. I was surprised at how I was amazed by the way the magicians seemed to cut people in half!

This show had a storytelling theme that encouraged the performers to share about their favorite magicians and heroes which was a nice, heartwarming touch. As the show was ending, Evan leaned over and said it all: “Before this, I only knew Houdini…now I know the Champions of Magic.” It was obvious the Lima audience enjoyed the show by the standing ovation at the end. We feel lucky that we didn’t have to go all the way to Vegas to see a show of this caliber!

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Talk of the Town

In the Pursuit of... BOURBON

I first met Kenny Coleman last summer. I had known of him from the Bourbon Pursuit podcast, which is the number one bourbon podcast in America. His uncle had visited Purple Feet (PF) and said that Kenny was his nephew. I didn’t believe him at first, until one day he called the bar and said Kenny is on his way to visit PF. Our manager, Dave, called me and I came up quickly so I didn’t miss meeting him. Kenny’s bourbon expertise was evident right away. He brought samples for us to try of the newest product that had just been released to Ohio. He really believes in his product and for good reason. Pursuit Spirits is currently very busy with moving into a new location in Louisville, right on whiskey row. Kenny and I are both in the IT business for our daily jobs, and we decided to work together to offer a virtual tasting. We received the Pursuit Spirits bourbon from the distributor, set up a projector and screen, and our remote event was underway. Kenny provided lots of knowledge and insight on what was to come with his products in the future. Then we tasted the bourbon and he went over the profile and tasting notes, as well as a little bit of how they came up with it.

The event was successful, which has opened doors for me to be able to have other distillery tastings with big companies that may be too busy to make the trip to Lima or are too far away. I am currently in contact with a few other brands such

as Buffalo Trace, Old Forester, Penelope, and Smoke Wagon to do either an in-person or virtual tasting.

I’ve scheduled another barrel pick in Kentucky for a group as well as a few other tasting events. I’ve also done several events for local businesses around the area. Come see me for Saturday Sippin’ at Purple Feet, or if you want a private tasting, to put on your own bourbon event, or need consulting, feel free to get in contact with me via email at lschmiedebusch@gmail.com Let me help you create a great event!

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We know how quickly a cancer diagnosis can change your life. That’s why we use the latest in medical advancements and technology to help you stay strong, determined and hopeful. Our exceptional team of caregivers is here to provide the personalized, compassionate care you need to help you every step of the way. Visit mercy.com to find a location and connect with a provider. Compassionate Cancer Care When You Need It CANCER CARE FOR THE UNIVERSE OF YOU 17522LIMPRI 20 • MARCH 2024 SHAWNEE LIFE

Community Health Improvement Plan

Question/Answer Session with Tyler Smith, Director of Community Health for Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center

What is a Community Health Improvement Plan or “CHIP”?

Mercy Health has been committed to the communities it serves for nearly two centuries.

Mercy Health – St Rita’s Medical Center continues this commitment today by devoting significant time and attention to researching and planning ways to address our community’s most urgent needs. Every three years, a survey is used to collect data and help determine the greatest needs in our community. When these needs are identified, they are used to create a 3-year strategic plan, “Community Health Improvement Plan.”

Who creates the Community Health Improvement Plan?

Members of Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Community Health Department collaborate alongside key stakeholders from St. Rita’s Medical Center, including but not limited to clinical leaders, physicians, administrators, and community agency representatives from Allen, Auglaize, and Putnam counties. Together we work as a team to develop the plan and put it into action.

Where do you implement the Community Health Improvement Plan?

Even though we serve an 11-county area, within our CHIP we are focused on Allen, Auglaize, and Putnam counties, as this is considered our primary service area, and where over 80% of our discharged patients reside.

What focus areas were identified as priorities in our community?

• Chronic Disease Management

• Substance Abuse

• Mental Health

• Maternal & Infant Health

• Access

• Healthy Behaviors

• Housing & Community Conditions

Of these seven different key areas, there are a total of 44 unique strategies devoted to helping to improve health outcomes locally!

How are CHIP strategies being used currently?

- Hosting a Walk with a Doc event every 2nd Saturday at the Lima YMCA from 9am-10am, where our Family Medicine resident providers provide a 30-minute education session followed by a 30-minute walk around the track in the gymnasium.

- Partnering with Activate Allen County supporting the Activated Faith and Activated School challenges where faith-based and local schools were awarded funding to help improve physical activity and nutrition initiatives.

- Partnering with Ohio Northern University and their Mobile Clinic to provide primary care and age/demographic specific preventative cancer screenings at Our Daily Bread, The Lima Public Library and St. Rita’s Thrift Shop.

- Hosting and partnering with community organizations to have Neighborhood Block Parties in local areas where access to care is limited. At the neighborhood north of our hospital campus, we hosted a 3-hour event in September where we had over 400 individuals. In addition, we provided appropriate cancer screenings at no-cost and fun filled activities for the whole family.

- We were also awarded a few large grants from Ohio Department of Health, to help improve health outcomes in three local neighborhoods, to address tobacco cessation within our community and in schools with our youth, and to address maternal and infant health.

Mercy Matters
MARCH 2024 • 21 SHAWNEE LIFE

Making a Mark

Empowering people of all ages with the charm of music through scholarship-based music lessons

In 2019 I joined a men’s Bible study group, “The Huddle.” We met on Thursday nights in downtown Lima and as with any meeting, there was always the meeting after the meeting. Four of us started to discuss the importance of music in our lives and for our communities. Two of us were formally trained, professional musicians and the other two were music enthusiasts. One of our group members, David Jackson, said that part of his childhood desire had been to have music lessons and learn to play an instrument. But this never happened for him. However, he had a vision of generating a music program in Lima that would provide free music lessons for children and youth who would not ordinarily have such an opportunity.

We began to meet in earnest discussing a name, logo, core values and a mission statement. Covid hit and we were on hiatus for a year. And then in 2021 we began to meet again, enlisted the aid and expertise of two music teachers, became a 501(c)(3) and partnered with a local, downtown church to start providing lessons.

violin and David for piano and voice. We have partnered with Trinity United Methodist Church in downtown Lima and host lessons every Tuesday night. There are always two adults onsite during lessons to protect ourselves and meet the church’s safe sanctuary protocols. All teachers and chaperones undergo background checks. At present we are serving twelve students and have a waiting list of another fourteen students.

One of our students, Jane, is an 11-year-old girl who has always wanted to play piano. Her grandmother, Jackie, heard of Lima Music Academy through a Hometown Station commercial and called immediately. Jane has autism and Jackie’s first question to us—will you accept a special needs student? Jackie was delighted that we would. Jackie says that Jane is so excited after her lessons. She was delighted when she learned her first song, “Frere Jacques.” Jane has a keyboard at home and has a keyboard app on her tablet.

Jane undergoes physical therapy to improve her hand and arm movements. Jane’s therapist has incorporated a keyboard pad as part of her therapy and Jane has found that her piano playing and keyboard therapy sessions work hand in hand for improving her mobility.

Jane has two older brothers who play saxophone and a best friend, Chloe, who has started to learn piano. Jane’s hope is to play the keyboard with her church praise team, and she also looks forward to when she can play alongside her best friend Chloe.

Lima Music Academy is a faith based, 501(c)(3), non-profit music school dedicated to providing scholarship based music lessons to people who could not ordinarily afford them. Our mission statement is: Empowering people of all ages with the charm of music through scholarship based music lessons. At present we have two music instructors, Kendra for viola and

We are born with a passion to create and a desire to share our creation with others. The achievement of music not only challenges and fulfills us personally but also allows us to be connected with others and teaches the benefit of disciplined practice and learning.

Proverbs 29:18 states: Without vision the people will perish. I be-

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Jane

lieve a more accurate translation would be Without vision the people are unrestrained. In my life, the charm and beauty of music has always provided me with a sense of accomplishment and a vision. There is nothing more satisfying than to sit with a piece of music and work with it to master it and let it become a part of you. The vision becomes a blessed reality. This is part of our hoped outcome with our students that they too will realize the benefit of music.

I have been blessed to have music as a part of my life. My mother was a music teacher who endeavored to instruct her three boys in the discipline and beauty of music. Music has always been a large part of my life and Lima Music Academy allows me to be a part of extending that blessing to others.

The benefits of music education not only show how music can benefit students now, but how it goes hand-in-hand with their preparation for future endeavors. Music education involves a high level of memorization which benefits the overall memory center of the brain. Additionally, increased hand-eye coordination, teamwork, and an increased ability to process situations and find solutions have all been associated with music education.

Lima Music Academy is governed by a board of directors. We are active in the Lima community soliciting private and corporate donations. We have created many relationships in the community, including talks with Bradfield Center, Lima City Schools, City of Lima, Lima Symphony Orchestra, Council for the Arts of Greater Lima, Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce, United Way, and many more. We also very grateful to receive financial support from Nutrien and Tom Ahl Family Dealerships.

We know that there is a need for tuition-free music lessons. We have an abundance of students, and we now stand in need of additional financial support and teachers in order to keep moving forward. We have been in active communication with the Bradfield Community Center in the hope and desire to partner with them.

If you are interested to learn more and want to help support Lima Music Academy with financial donations or filling teaching positions, please contact us!

www.LimaMusicAcademy.com

LimaMusicAcademy@gmail.com

David Jackson (President LMA) 419-905-5037

Rev. Mark Hollinger (Treasurer LMA) 419-231-0428

Mailing Address: PO Box 822, Lima, OH 45801

MARCH 2024 • 23 SHAWNEE LIFE
WE NEED YOUR HELP!

Sponsor Spotlight

Sara grew up in the small town of Washington, IL, which is located outside of Peoria. She always loved baking as a child and often spent holidays baking with her mom. She attended Greenville College in southern Illinois where she studied mathematics education. She also ran collegiate level cross country & track. Of course, she baked for the team for fun.

Sara dated her high school sweetheart, Ben Anderson, through college. Later Ben moved to Lima in 2009 to follow a career with State Farm. The two married in July 2010 and then Sara moved out to Lima. She took a job teaching Algebra 2 & Geometry at Lima Senior High School. She worked there for three years, and then one summer she decided to start her baking business. She began by baking desserts for The Met when they first opened.

In 2013, she made the brave move to quit teaching to work on her business full-time. During the next

few years, she worked her business from home and also offered a pop-up at The Met every Wednesday & Saturday.

In December of 2015, she opened her first Sara’s Sweets store. They have undergone two expansions since opening day. They now have a staff of about 20-25 depending on the time of year. The bakery offers a daily selection of cupcakes, cookies, brownies & cakes. Furthermore, they also offer catering for large events & weddings, preschool story time during the summer, and monthly kid & adult cake decorating classes.

Family-wise, Ben & Sara have been married for 13 years. They have three children that attend Temple Christian School – James (age 9), Theo (age 5) and Eleanor (age 2). They are very involved with their church, Lima Baptist Temple, which is where Ben is the lead pastor. They enjoy traveling as a family and when Sara has some time to herself, she enjoys long-distance running & reading. She

24 • MARCH 2024 SHAWNEE LIFE

also serves as the Vice President of the board for the West Ohio Christian Chamber of Commerce, and she leads the Motherhood’s Our Mission (MOM) group at their church on Wednesday nights.

When asked how she balances being a mom, wife and businesswoman, she laughed. She said, “There are ebbs & flows to the life of an entrepreneur. The bakery is very cyclical in its busy seasons, so certain months of the year I can be present at home a lot more. And then during holidays & such, I do have to work a lot more. We have a lot of support through grandparents. Thankfully, both of our jobs are pretty flexible so we can make it work.”

Sara admits that she always loved to bake but she never really saw herself doing it as a career. Thank goodness her vision changed! The part she loves the most about Sara’s Sweets is the people. She enjoys developing the team members, as well as meeting & interacting with customers. She also absolutely loves teaching the cake decorating classes! Putting together imaginative theme days and themed products for various times of the year (April Fool’s Day, holidays, Throwback Snack Attack) is another thing

Sara and her team look forward to. Running the social media for the bakery is one of Sara’s tasks that she is keen on doing. Her entrepreneurial spirit comes shining through as she says, “Feeling the creativity that comes with owning your own business (especially one as fun as a bakery) is unlike any other feeling.”

The most challenging part of the job is managing the various needs of the bakery. According to Sara, “I strive to devote the appropriate amount of time to all my employees, and truly get to know them and know what’s going on with their lives. Balancing the needs of my employees while also creating a safe working environment that is profitable, is the goal.”

Baking can be both an art and a science and Sara explained why: “It is definitely a science, because if you don’t follow the measurements in a recipe, it is unlikely that it will turn out well. It can be an art, especially when working on the presentation of a product or dish.”

Some may be surprised to learn that Sara actually developed a gluten/wheat allergy about 6 years after the bakery opened. She finds it to be a little bit sad, but it makes her more empathetic for those with allergies. They have actually greatly expanded their gluten-friendly options since she was diagnosed! When asked what her favorite dessert to eat is she said some variety of chocolate or peanut butter cheesecake.

Sara’s Sweets is working on expanding their shipping offerings! They are able to ship their cookies nationwide, but now they are working on expanding the variety of items that are shipped, through a special shipping box each month of their seasonal/ themed items.

MARCH 2024 • 25 SHAWNEE LIFE

Michael J. Ayers Named Vice President of International Photographic Council’s Executive Board of Directors

Renowned photographer and teacher brings unique experiences and contributions to worldwide photography organizaiton

New York, NY, January 11, 2024 - The International Photographic Council (IPC) has announced the appointment of Michael J. Ayers as Vice President to its Executive Board of Directors. Founded in 1974, IPC is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing worldwide recognition of photography as a universal means of communication.

“Michael represents our focus of Peace Through Photography, the Universal Language,” says Andy Marcus, President of IPC. “As a teacher, he educates his students on the incredible power they have in their hands to change the world. His career has taken him around the world and that kind of introspection will bring enormous value to our board.”

Ayers is a past recipient of the IPC Leadership Award. He earned the WPPI’s International Photographer of the Year Award in 2001, and was the 2011 recipient of SWPP’s Honorary Fellowship. He is sought after for his wedding, portrait and corporate photography work. He has educated more than 50,000 students across over 100 countries in his distinctive techniques and skills to enrich their talent. He participates and chronicles his work with missions, bringing clean water, food, medicine, and other essentials to showcase world issues.

“Photography is a synonym for love,” says Ayers. “I’m fortunate to have been able to capture moments in time that open eyes and hearts. I’m looking forward to working with the IPC Board and I’m honored to have been asked to participate.”

Ayers joins a diverse board of directors comprised of representatives from every major sector of the photographic industry. In October, IPC honored President and COO of Sony Electronics North America, Neal Manowitz, with its annual Hall of Fame Award for his vital contributions to the photo imaging industry. Six professional photographers also earned coveted IPC awards for their work. This year also saw the first two inaugural recipients of the James L. Chung Memorial Scholarship. Visit IPCPhoto.org to learn more.

About the International Photographic Council (IPC):

The International Photographic Council (IPC) is a Civil Society Organization formally associated with the United Nations Department of Global Communications, composed of representatives from every major sector of the photographic industry. IPC’s motto is “Peace Through Photography, the Universal Language.” IPC is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Special Feature filmstrip image: Freepik.com
Photographic Council PRESS RELEASE
International
26 • MARCH 2024 SHAWNEE LIFE
MARCH 2024 • 27 SHAWNEE LIFE

Picky Pup Pepper

Every dog is known by the name of its breed. From akitas to zuchons, these doggy titles distinguish one kind of pooch from another. But many breeds have come to be known by more than one moniker, being given nicknames that display a key characteristic of the pups they include. Take the Weimaraner, a silvery furred and sleek dog that has rightfully earned the ominous nickname of the gray ghost dog. The Papillon has been called the butterfly dog due to its large, Dumbo-like ears that spread from its head like a butterfly’s wings. And the title of the barkless dog can only be awarded to the Basenji. This tawny pupper is the only dog breed that is incapable of barking, instead stretching its voice into a kind of yodel! Great Danes are also known as the Apollo of dogs for their majesty and beauty, rivaling that of the elegant Greek god Apollo. The Pointer’s boundless energy and ability to hunt for hours without rest has led to its impressive nickname, the Cadillac of bird dogs. And the Keeshond has claimed the fitting and adorable name of the smiling Dutchman, referring to the breed’s Netherlands origin and the doggy smiles that they always seem to be giving!

One of these nicknamed canines lives with the Rees family. Pepper is a seven-year-old Shih Tzu, a breed that has been dubbed as the chrysanthemum dog due to its fur, which grows in every which way, the same way the petals of a chrysanthemum flower do! Pepper became part of the family when wife Sharon and husband Tom Rees were visiting their son and daughter in-law in Cincinnati. There, they stumbled upon an ad in the local newspaper for Shih Tzu puppies and arranged a meeting with the breeder. All it took was one look at Pepper to confirm that this lucky pup would be going home with them.

much-deserved attention. She enjoys taking long naps with Tom, racing from wherever she is to join him in his rest. Pepper is even allowed every dog’s dream: permission to jump up into the bed at the end of the day to sleep with her people. A particular pooch, Pepper will refuse to sleep until her pillows and blankets are exactly the way she likes them, moving them about until she has achieved peak comfort! After this, she will lay like a baby before finally falling asleep. Pepper is even picky in the way she eats. If she can see the bottom of her bowl even slightly, she will refuse to take another bite until the situation has been rectified.

Pepper

Pepper is an exceptionally cuddly girl, loving nothing more than to curl up next to you and receive

“We have to move the food around so that it covers the bowl before she will eat her food again,” says Sharon.

When she is left home alone, Pepper patiently waits in her kennel for Sharon and Tom to return. Even though she is allowed back out when there are people in the house, Pepper loves her space, and will remain in the kennel whenever she is in need of some alone time!

Pepper lives on Lakeshore Drive in Amanda Lakes with Tom and Sharon Rees. Tom is retired from Honda of America, and Sharon from Wapakoneta City Schools. Both now substitute for Shawnee Schools. The couple has two children: Devy, who lives in Hamilton and teaches at Middletown City Schools, and Shelly, who lives in Vermont and works at Ticonderoga Paper Miller. They also are blessed with two grandchildren, Matt and Taylor, who work at GM in Detroit and University of Minneapolis in Minnesota respectively. This happy family turned out to be the perfect place for Pepper, who receives all the cuddles, care, attention, and food rearrangements a dog could ever hope for in her loving home.

Precious Pets
28 • MARCH 2024 SHAWNEE LIFE
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Amazing Achiever

Carson Frost

Senior year is an exciting yet challenging time for students. For some, the last year of high school is the time for relaxing and enjoying the last months of school. But others, like Shawnee senior Carson Frost, are intent on finishing high school with a bang. Carson has pushed himself hard this year, taking many advanced classes like AP Calculus and Anatomy and finding great success with them. Though Carson is known for performing exceptionally well in all of his classes, his favorites are those that involve math. Carson is also very gifted athletically, partaking in a variety of sports throughout school years such as soccer, track and field, and cross country. In 2023, Carson and both his cross country and track and field teams trained and raced hard to bring home Western Buckeye League cham-

pionships, beating out many other schools in Ohio. These incredible victories have been commemorated on the Lappin Gymnasium’s sports banner wall, marking them as a part of the school’s history.

“Being able to be part of those special teams is something that I will cherish for a very long time,” says Carson.

When Shawnee’s track season starts up this spring, Carson hopes to further bring pride to his school by winning the WBL’s track championship, as well.

Though Carson is still deciding where he will go to college, he carries a passion and interest in architecture. After graduating high school this summer, he plans to earn his bachelor’s degree in architecture at either Miami University in Ohio or at the University of Cincinnati, then go on to earn his master’s in architecture at his chosen college.

Outside of school and sports, Carson is an avid member of Shawnee YoungLife, a church group that hosts events and camps to increase community and friendship amongst its members.

Whenever he has free time, Carson enjoys spending it with his friends and family, who admire Carson’s dedicated work ethic and genial personality. He also adores watching sports almost as much as he adores playing them, and rooting for his favorite teams is a favorite pastime.

32 • MARCH 2024 SHAWNEE LIFE

When his family heads out to Devil’s Lake in Michigan for much needed vacations, Carson has fun by engaging in watersports out on the waves. A dog lover, Carson also loves to spend time playing and walking with his golden retriever Charlie, and trying to tire out puppy Hudson!

Carson lives in Wildbrook with his parents Kelly and Dave and his younger sister Lydia, who also attends Shawnee Schools as a

sophomore. Dave co-owns and works at Fidelity Builders Supply, a company which has been in the family for over sixty years, alongside Carson’s uncle Robb Frost.

Though senior year is a difficult and busy time, Carson is taking on its challenges with finesse and dedication, making him someone his school, family, and community can be proud of.

MARCH 2024 • 33 SHAWNEE LIFE

Lazarus Bread Pudding

from the kitchen of Connie and Jim Hutson, Tanglewood Lane

To some people, the miles between Roundhead to St. Marys and Elida, Ohio to Corpus Christi and Richmond, Texas, then back to Waynesfield and Lima, Ohio, would seem long and disconnected. But to Connie and Jim Hutson, for the last two years in Shawnee, that journey was a direct route to Connie’s current profession, and more travel.

Connie is an Advanced Practical Nurse for a wound and hyperbaric company out of Jacksonville, Florida, for which she travels all over the U.S.A., going on 18 years, to all manner of places including Alaska, Appalachia, Arizona, New Jersey and Washington, D.C.. At each destination, she teaches hyperbaric-oxygen safety classes to staff and providers. Jim is a retired gas and oil business man, and is currently working part-time for Cook’s Plumbing and Heating, Wapakoneta. The couple has two adult sons, Jeremy in St.Paul, Minnesota, and Zachary in Elida, plus 5 grandchildren. Connie’s work résumé includes retail fashion sales in Lima’s erstwhile Lazarus store, from which she gleaned this often served and voraciously consumed recipe here.

Lazarus Bread Pudding w/Whiskey Sauce

Custard Mix:

• 2 cups granulated sugar (reduce to 1 ½ if using donut pieces)

• 1 tsp salt

• 8 extra-large eggs

• 5 ½ cups milk

• 1 tsp vanilla

• Blend eggs, salt and sugar lightly with wire whisk. Add vanilla and milk. Blend and strain. Set aside.

Pudding:

• ½ pound French bread, preferably stale (or Krispy Kreme donuts or Mello-Crème glazed yeast donuts (stale, which may take a couple of days)

• ¼ cup pecans, toasted

• 4 ounces butter, melted

• Custard mix recipe

Break French bread (or donuts) into medium pieces. Add pecans and melted butter. Arrange in 9 x13 baking dish. Pour custard mix over bread (or donut pieces.) To bake, place the baking dish in a larger pan to create a double boiler effect. Place a small amount of water in the bottom pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes. Test by inserting a knife blade into the center of the pudding, until it comes out clean.

Whiskey Sauce:

• 8 ounces butter, melted

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 2 extra large eggs

• 2 Tbsps whiskey (save some for yourself)

• Melt butter. Whip in powdered sugar. Fold in eggs. Add whiskey. Serve warm over bread pudding.

Elementary through high school classmates, each other’s bridesmaids, Christmas and birthday card exchanges, Friendsgiving and anniversary celebratory meals: the treasured and timeworn ingredients of a lifelong friendship between contributor, Connie Hutson and this DISH-cussions writer!

DISH-cussions
34 • MARCH 2024 SHAWNEE LIFE
LUCK wouldhaveit, ...andsodo we! ASHAM PLUMBING, HEATING & AIR PLUMBING, HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. CONDITIONING, INC. (419) 339 - 0729 419) 339 - 0729 MARCH 2024 • 35 SHAWNEE LIFE

Unraveling the Threads of Financial Well-being: A Continuation of the Money Mindset Journey

In the intricate tapestry of life, where every decision we make weaves into the fabric of our future, the delicate threads of money and mindset entwine seamlessly. In our previous exploration, we delved into the profound impact of our beliefs on financial choices. Today, let’s continue navigating this journey, as we unravel the knots that bind us and embrace the transformative power of a positive money mindset.

Reflecting on the Canvas of Beliefs

As we embark on the voyage to financial illumination, it’s crucial to revisit the canvas of our beliefs. Take a moment to pause and reflect on the instincts, emotions, perceptions, and attitudes that have guided your financial ship. Have they been intentional or by accident and are these currents steering you towards prosperity, or are they threatening to cast you adrift in the stormy seas of financial insecurity?

Our beliefs about money often function as silent architects, designing the structures of our financial decisions. Our subconscious at work. A negative mindset, akin to a corroding foundation, can compromise the stability of our financial edifice. It’s imperative to acknowledge these foundations before we can erect pillars of positive change.

The Ripple Effect of Negativity

A negative money mindset, much like a pebble cast into a pond, creates ripples that touch every facet of our financial existence. If money is perceived as malevolent, opportunities may be dismissed or potential income streams couldl become untapped. The incomplete belief that money can’t buy happiness might hinder prudent saving and investing, relegating financial goals to distant mirages.

Recognizing the detrimental impact of these ripples is the first step toward steering our financial ship back on course. Awareness is the lantern that guides us through the shadows, revealing the path towards a more positive financial future.

Empowering Change: Knowledge as the Navigator

Armed with self-awareness, the next beacon on our journey is knowledge. Picture knowledge as the navigator, helping us chart the course through the sometimes-turbulent waters of personal finance. Budgeting, saving, investing – these are not mere transactions; they are the tools we use to sculpt our financial destiny.

Education transforms money from an enigmatic force into a malleable instrument. Understanding the nuances of personal finance dismantles the barriers of fear and uncertainty, empowering us to wield money with confidence and purpose.

Affirmations: The Art of Mindset Sculpting

In the grand gallery of the mind, affirmations emerge as masterpieces, each stroke contributing to the creation of a positive money mindset. Just as an artist transforms a blank canvas into a captivating scene, we can reshape our thoughts. Instead of dwelling on the impossibilities, dare to believe in your ability to build wealth. “I am capable of building wealth” becomes the brushstroke that paints a brighter financial future.

Embracing the Tapestry of Positivity

The journey towards a positive money mindset is a transformative experience. It empowers us to navigate the financial landscape with confidence, make informed decisions, and view money as a tool rather than a measure of our worth. This paradigm shift fosters a healthier relationship with money, where its role is not to dictate our happiness but to facilitate the realization of our goals.

In conclusion, as we continue weaving the intricate tapestry of our financial lives, let us be conscious architects of our beliefs. By fostering a positive money mindset, we open ourselves to a realm of possibilities, where financial health and prosperity are not distant dreams but tangible destinations on our journey.

So, I ask again, what is your money mindset?...

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 Business 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.

Financial Focus
36 • MARCH 2024 SHAWNEE LIFE
419-812-2821 brunkelectric@gmail.com Interior | Exterior | Landscape
UNDERWRITERS
ARTIST SPONSOR MARCH 2024 • 37 SHAWNEE LIFE
GUEST
38 • MARCH 2024 SHAWNEE LIFE

WELCOME WAGON

New to Shawnee? Welcome to our Community!

If you’re new to the area, we have a beautiful gift basket full of wonderful donations from our magazine sponsors and friends.

Introduce yourself and your family by emailing our Welcome Wagon Coordinator, NICOLE DAVIS, at WelcomeToShawnee@gmail.com, and we’ll deliver a gift basket to your doorstep.

Welcome Basket made possible by: Affordable Window Fashions

Bayliff & Son Funeral Home

Brunk Electric

Cleaves American Heating & Air Conditioning

Gillis Chiropractic Clinic

Kwik Dry Total Cleaning of Northwest Ohio

Mercy Health

Purple Feet Wine Boutique

Sara’s Sweets

Shawnee Station – Coffee ▪ Bar ▪ Grill

Tracy’s Appliances

Westgate Entertainment Center

Are you new to the Shawnee area, or know someone that just moved here?

Let us know so we may hand deliver a WELCOME BASKET full of goodies from our beloved sponsors, in order to adjust to a new neighborhood!

Welcome Wagon
****************************************
MARCH 2024 • 39 SHAWNEE LIFE

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