“Light Up Lima did a great job helping with my outside Christmas lighting. I love how they made suggestions on which lights and where. The cost was very reasonable, and it looks beautiful! I wanted to add a nativity in the back yard and their putting lights in the trees looks like the stars in the sky above the manger. So beautiful. I already want them up next year and might add a little more in years to come.”
- Anne
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.
ADVERTISING
DEN Publishing LLC & Shawnee Life Magazine (707) 299-8942
APPLIANCES
Westrich Furniture & Appliances (419) 695-6045
AUTOMOBILE DEALERSHIP
Taylor Kia of Lima (567) 712-6604
BAKERY
Sara’s Sweets (419) 371-4745
BUILDING RESTORATION EXPERTS
Trisco Systems (419) 339-3906
CANCER CARE / ONCOLOGY
Cancer Care of West Central Ohio (419) 221-2273
CEMETERY & MAUSOLEUMS
Gethsemani Cemetery (419) 233-0484
CLEANING SERVICES
Mark’s Maid Service (419) 604-0298
CHRISTMAS LIGHT INSTALLATION
Light Up Lima (567) 208-0551
CUSTOM HOME BUILDER / REMODELING
Architon (419) 303-7138
DONATION PICK UP
Habitat for Humanity Lima ReStore (419) 222-4937
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Brunk Electric (419) 812-2821
FLORAL & GIFTS
Yazel’s Flowers & Gifts (419) 224-1771
FOOD & DRINK
Good Food Restaurants
Beer Barrel, Happy Daz, Old City Prime, Spring & Main, Sycamore (419) 991-5346
Padrone’s Pizza Lima West (419) 331-3111
PF Lounge (567) 940-9944
Schoony’s Pub (419) 991-4821
FUNERAL HOME
Bayliff & Son (419) 645-4501
FURNITURE
Westrich Furniture & Appliances (419) 695-6045
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Fresh Press Threads (419) 405-6575
HAIR REMOVAL
Bare Image by Tara at LOX Salon (567) 204-5465
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Mercy Health – St. Rita’s (419) 227-3361
HEATING & AIR
Cleaves American Heating & Air (419) 227-4328
Washam Plumbing, Heating & Air (419) 339-0729
INSURANCE
Beery Insurance Services (419) 228-4000
INTERIOR DESIGN
Deborah’s Interiors (419) 991-4400
JEWELER
Vons Diamonds & Jewelry (419) 227-5616
LAWN CARE
Select Lawn Care Services (419) 204-4498
LEASING LOFTS & BUSINESS SPACE
Kelly Martino (419) 604-2356
PET MEMORIAL SERVICES
Bayliff & Son (419) 645-4501
PETS & PET SUPPLIES
Dot’s Pet Center (419) 991-6113
PHOTOGRAPHY
The Ayers, Inc. (419) 236-8418
PLUMBING
Washam Plumbing Heating & Air (419) 339-0729
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Busy B Realty (419) 371-4633
REALTOR
Cowan Realtors (419) 222-1212
SECURITY
Lima Security, Inc. (419) 222-1250
TRANSPORTATION / LIMOS / PARTY BUS
Lucky Limo, LLC (419) 236-3964
WELLNESS
Leahy Family Wellness Center (419) 224-1234
WINDOW TREATMENTS
Affordable Window Fashions (419) 991-4400
WINDOWS & DOORS
All Service Glass (800) 521-7059
October CONT ENTS
Everyone loves to share stories about their pets. Find out how many people tend to treat them like another member of the family.
Billy Gladwell
The
Who
Learn how
The
Our
See what’s cookin’ in Shawnee and meet the chef behind the recipe.
Get inspired to travel near and far after reading about the details of various experiences.
Securities, Real Estate, Tax Planning. We bring the sharpest minds with their practical advice of how to strategically invest your capital to meet your family’s goals.
Our sponsors love to welcome new families to the Shawnee area! If you have a new neighbor, let them know about the free welcome basket!
Halloween is upon us and I am ready for it! Are your little ghouls ready? We have already been on hay rides, picked the largest pumpkins we could carry, visited numerous patches, enjoyed fresh apple cider, got lost in a corn maze and are looking forward to trick-or-treating! Now, it’s time to make final decisions about costumes! I hope you and your family enoy this time of year as much as we do!
As always, 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.
Introducing the Mulcahy family of Linfield Lane: Steve, Lyn, Meghan, Mary Kelly, Erin, and Bridget. The Mulcahys have lived in their home for the past 19 years. They love their neighbors and the beautiful surroundings on Linfield. In fact, Lyn is a self-taught gardener who enjoys spending time working in her yard. “It is a peaceful area and we are grateful to have a neighborhood where our children thrived,” said Lyn. “In the early morning and on Friday evenings in the fall we especially love to hear the Shawnee Band from our house! They are either rehearsing or performing, which means fall is in the air!”
Steve and Lyn are both Lima natives. Steve graduated from LCC in 1986, then furthered his education at the University of Toledo. Lyn graduated from Shawnee in 1990 and went to college at Bowling Green State University. Steve and Lyn met in 1989 when Steve was home playing in the Lima City Golf Tournament
in which Lyn was attending. They dated throughout college, even upon Steve’s graduation when he moved to Florida for a few years as a professional golfer. They were married in 1997 and for three years they shared their time between Lima, where Lyn worked, and Cleveland, where Steve worked. In 2000 Steve became the head golf pro at Shawnee Country Club and the couple moved to Lima permanently. Currently, Steve is the assistant men’s and women’s golf coach at the University of Findlay and Lyn is the dance studio director at Lyn’s Academy of Dance in Elida. This summer Lyn was able to take some employees to New York City for a dance convention where they were also able to see Billy Joel in concert! They both feel lucky that their jobs are also their hobbies and their passion!
Steve and Lyn have four talented daughters. Meghan graduated from The Ohio State University in 2022 and is in her third year as the elementary dance teacher at Liberty Arts Magnet for the Lima City Schools. In addition, she is a dance instructor at Lyn’s Academy of Dance. Mary Kelly and Erin are twins. They are both earning their Masters of Business Administration at the University of Findlay, while also competing on the women’s golf team. Bridget, their youngest, is currently at OSU
Lima studying Middle Childhood Education. She is also a tremendous golfer and was featured in the Shawnee Life “Amazing Achievers” article in 2022.
“Sharing the same passions as your kids is definitely rewarding,” stated Lyn. “It’s a special way to connect with them, and being able to help them grow is about as rewarding as it gets. Ultimately, we are proud of all our girls and the people they are becoming!”
As a family, the Mulcahy’s enjoy following Mary Kelly and Erin’s golf tournaments. They also enjoy going to various sporting events, dance programs, and Broadway shows and musicals. This summer they were fortunate to follow Mary Kelly to Ireland for the Arnold Palmer Cup. She was one of only 12 college women golfers to represent (and bring home a win) for the United States! Locally, the family enjoys going out to eat at The Met, Beer Barrel on Dixie Highway, and Milano’s. You may even see Lyn at her daily
Shawnee McDonald’s stop for a Diet Coke…or even at Kewpee getting hamburgers and frozen yogurts! The Mulcahys are also frequent fliers at Heritage Park in Shawnee where they can be found walking the trails or riding their bikes. They especially enjoy riding their bikes from Heritage Park to Ottawa Metro Park.
The Mulcahys are involved in the Lima community in various ways. Lyn is a lifelong member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church. Steve and all four of their daughters grew up in the Lima Central Catholic school system, so that is a place where the family has been quite involved. They are also members of the Lima YMCA. In addition, Lyn’s Academy of Dance has been a supporter of the Lima Civic Center for many years, having their annual recital there in the spring.
With Halloween around the corner, it is a holiday that is a favorite of the Mulcahy family! “We decorate our house, both inside and out, more for Halloween than any other holiday,” said Steve. “Pumpkins, skeletons, witches, and black cats…we love it all!”
The Freedom of Forgiveness:
Unburden Your Life and Reclaim Your Happiness
by Billy Gladwell
Forgiveness is like that magical elixir everyone knows they should drink—but nobody wants to touch because it tastes like a mix of kale juice and motor oil. But let’s be real—holding onto grudges is like downing a toxic cocktail that slowly poisons your life. In this article, we’re diving into the gritty details of how much life you give up by not practicing forgiveness and why holding a grudge is basically emotional quicksand.
The Emotional Toll of Grudges
Imagine you’re carrying a backpack filled with rocks. Every time someone wrongs you and you refuse to forgive, you add another rock. Over time, that backpack gets so heavy—it’s a wonder you can stand upright. Grudges are those rocks, and they weigh down your emotional well-being. They occupy mental space, consume your energy, and make it harder to focus on the things that actually matter.
Research shows that holding onto anger and resentment can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and even depression. When you’re stuck in a cycle of bitterness, your body is constantly in fight-or-flight mode, which can wreak havoc on your immune system. It’s like living in a state of perpetual emergency.
Real-Life Example: The Silent Treatment
Take, for instance, the story of John and his best friend, Mike. Mike borrowed John’s car and got into a fender bender. Instead of apologizing, Mike acted like it was no big deal. John—understandably pissed—decided to give Mike the silent treatment. Weeks turned into months, and their friendship withered. John lost not just a friend, but also the countless moments of joy and support that friendship brought him.
The Social Consequences
Grudges don’t just hurt you—they damage your relationships. When you hold a grudge, you’re building walls instead of bridges. It’s like setting up a fortress around your heart where nobody can get in, but you can’t get out either. This isolation leads to loneliness and erodes the quality of your social interactions.
Forgiveness, on the other hand, can mend relationships and foster deeper connections. It’s not about letting the other hu-
man off the hook—it’s about freeing yourself from the chains of resentment. When you forgive, you reclaim the mental and emotional energy that was wasted on anger.
Real-Life Example: Family Feud
Consider Sarah, who had a falling out with her sister over a trivial argument about their parents’ estate. They didn’t speak for years. Sarah missed family gatherings, holidays, and the chance to watch her nieces and nephews grow up. The price of holding that grudge was a decade of lost family moments that she could never get back.
The Physical Health Impact
Beyond the emotional and social toll, grudges can also take a physical toll on your body. Chronic anger and resentment are linked to a host of health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and even cancer. It’s as if every time you replay that hurtful event in your mind, you’re feeding poison to your body.
Forgiveness, on the other hand, has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve heart health. It’s like giving your body a detox from all the toxic emotions that have been festering inside.
Real-Life Example: Workplace Woes
Let’s talk about Lisa, who couldn’t forgive her colleague, Tom, for taking credit for her idea. Every time she saw Tom, her blood pressure spiked, and her mood soured. She dreaded going to work, which affected her performance and her relationships with other colleagues. When Lisa finally confronted Tom and decided to let go of her grudge, she noticed an immediate improvement in her overall well-being and job satisfaction.
Practical Steps to Forgive
So, how do you actually go about forgiving someone? It’s not like you can just flip a switch and be done with it. Here are some steps to help you on your journey to forgiveness:
Acknowledge the Hurt: Recognize the pain and anger you’re feeling. It’s okay to be hurt—just don’t let it define you.
Empathize with the Offender: Try to see things from their perspective. This doesn’t mean you agree with what they did, but it can help you understand why they might have done it.
Let Go of the Need for Revenge: Holding a grudge often involves a desire for the other human to suffer. Letting go of this need can be incredibly liberating.
Focus on the Present: Don’t let past hurts overshadow your present. Focus on the here and now, and let the past stay in the past.
Seek Professional Help: Sometimes, forgiveness is too big to tackle alone. My expert hypnosis skills can provide the tools and support to help you move forward.
Forgiveness isn’t about forgetting or condoning what happened—it’s about freeing yourself from the shackles of resentment and reclaiming the energy you need to live a fulfilling life. By practicing forgiveness, you open the door to better emotional, social, and physical health. Drop those rocks from your backpack, and start living a lighter, more joyful life.
Remember, every moment spent holding a grudge is a moment of life wasted. Choose forgiveness, and reclaim your time and happiness.
Meet Billy Gladwell
Hypnosis, Influence, and Persuasion Authority
With over three decades of experience, Billy Gladwell has established himself as a leading consultant, speaker, and author in the fields of hypnosis, influence, and persuasion. Empowering countless individuals to communicate effectively, ethically influence others, and achieve their goals, Billy’s expertise can transform your life and career.
As a human interaction specialist, Billy provides valuable insights into group dynamics, making them more predictable and suggestible. Utilize these principles to influence others and hear “yes” more frequently, in less time.
Whether you aim to build strong relationships, boost confidence, improve sales, or enhance negotiation skills, Bill’s expertise can provide you with real-world strategies for success.
Why Choose Billy Gladwell?
With over 32 years of experience in hypnosis, influence, and persuasion, Billy’s journey began as a high school student exploring hypnosis. After attending a Tony Robbins seminar and receiving certifications in Neuro-Linguistic Programming™
(NLP™) and hypnotherapy, Billy embarked on a mission to help others harness the power of hypnosis.
As a trainer for The Society of Applied Hypnosis, Billy has consulted with counselors, social workers, and therapists, integrating hypnosis into their practices. He also holds expertlevel certifications in Micro Expressions Training and Subtle Expressions Training from the Paul Ekman Group, LLC.
Billy has created over 2,000 hypnosis audio programs, developed ethical sales and persuasion techniques and now consults for individuals and corporations worldwide.
Entertaining, Engaging, and Unforgettable Experiences
Known for his captivating keynotes and seminars, Billy combines entertainment with education. As a critically acclaimed performer, he has held the #1 rated show in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the #1 nightlife attraction on Hilton Head Island.
Customized Solutions and Ongoing Support
Recognizing the uniqueness of each client, Billy conducts indepth research to tailor his approach to your specific needs. To ensure long-term success, Billy offers ongoing support via email, phone, and video conferencing, as well as access to the latest developments in hypnosis, influence, and persuasion. 702.721.8456
Dot’s Pet Center Meet the
New Owners
Local Shawnee residents, Nicholas Wheeler and Jared Wittenmyer recently jumped at the opportunity to take over the beloved Dot’s Pet Center when it became available, because their love of animals is what makes their world go round. They also couldn’t bear to see the only local pet store in the area close. Their eight-year-old son, Owen, is an integral part of the business and is thrilled to help whenever he can. You may recognize Nicholas as he is no stranger to owning a local business. Affordable Window Fashions serves as his other passion and provides the perfect outlet for his interior decorating talent, which he definitely put to use when transforming the new location that Dot’s Pet Center now occupies at 2411 Shawnee Road.
Nick’s love for animals started before he could walk. He has rescued hundreds of cats and kittens since he was just a little boy. He has countless memories
of bringing home critters that were in need of care, and still can’t resist the urge to do the same today. Since Jared met Nick, his like of animals has turned to love, as he quickly learned he doesn’t even have a chance to feel any other way.
Nick and Jared wanted to carry on the legacy of Dot’s because of their deep affection for animals. Providing a local, family-owned business that truly cares about the well-being of the community and all its inhabitants is the objective. Visiting Dot’s as a young boy was an event and always brought great excitement for Nick, so owning the store feels like a dream come true. Nick and Jared’s mission is to provide knowledge and a helpful hand wherever they can in the community for all of their furry and non-furry friends too. They have a plan for fulfilling this mission: “We want to raise awareness around the needs of our local rescue organizations and donate time and energy, as well as help raise funds to support all that they do. We also plan to have as many adoption events as necessary in order to find good homes for all of the animals in need.”
The new owners of Dot’s Pet Center played it smart during the move from the old location to the new location. They took note of the best-selling pet foods and products, and stocked the new space with only the highest quality and most reputable brands.
For example, it was important to carry Dr. Gary’s Best Breed pet food as it is veterinarian-developed, holistic, made with all natural high-quality ingredients, full of healthy nutrition and produced locally here in Ohio. Dr. Gary developed the brand to help address the issues that he would see repeat-
Owen with Ball Python, Lucille
edly in his clinic. Customers may also decide to take advantage of the assortment of dog treats available by the pound in bulk bins, in order to find the perfect treat without committing to a full package and to make it fun for pups to taste different options. Of course, tried and true pre-packaged options are always available. Even though the new location is somewhat smaller, they have packed it with all of everyone’s favorites.
Live pets like hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, rabbits, sugar gliders, reptiles, birds, fish and kittens from Cat Haven are the stars of the show and make visiting Dot’s a special experience. Dot’s continues to be a destination for families to enjoy with their children and their pets. Dot’s operates as a family. What sets them apart from other local pet stores, is how they strive to be a friend to everyone that walks in the door. “No one feels like a stranger. We treat everyone like family and strive to be as helpful as possible. We will go above and beyond to make sure our customers are satisfied. We have also changed our pricing system to be more competitive with online retailers. We would like to see a customer get what they need locally, rather than have to wait on it to be delivered in the mail,” according to Nick.
Nick and Jared would like to thank everyone that has shown unwavering support. They live in
the Shawnee community and want to keep Dot’s in their own backyard. Plans to grow the store are already in the works, and they are constantly working on growing their knowledge in order to be as helpful as possible for the community. “For animal lovers like us, Dot’s Pet Center has been a Shawnee staple for many, many years and we are doing everything possible to make sure it is here to stay.”
Penny, the new store mascot
Good Food Restaurants Charities
is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities where Good Food Restaurants operate. Their mission focuses on three key areas:
• Social services for veterans, with an emphasis on hunger relief
• Shelter and services for the homeless
• Emergency assistance for families in crisis
History and Mission
Founded in November 2014, originally as Happy Daz Charities, the organization was established to support various causes, including the Blue Star Mothers Veterans Food Pantry in Lima, OH. When the pantry lost its former location, Good Food Restaurants Charities stepped in, providing a five-year lease at just $1 per month for a building owned by John and Aimee Heaphy, the owners of Good Food Restaurants. Since then, the charity has expanded its reach, proudly donating over $150,000 to numerous organizations that serve their local communities.
That’s right! to local communities
$150,000
Organizations Supported
Good Food Restaurants Charities has provided crucial funding to a variety of organizations, including:
• Veteran’s Food Pantry
• Lima Rescue Mission
• Kathy’s House
• Mercy Unlimited
• City Mission of Findlay
• Lima Community Foundation
• Agape Ministries
• Lots for Soldiers
• “MASH” Food Pantry
• Save a Warrior Foundation
• HOOVES
• Salvation Army
• Guiding Light
• Children’s Hunger Alliance
• Soldiers of Honor
• Angels for Veterans
• Findlay Hope House
• YWCA of Van Wert
• Community Harvest
Grant Funding and Application Process
Grants are awarded throughout the year by an independent board of trustees. Good Food Restaurants Charities accepts grant applications during two specific periods each year, reviewing all submissions and notifying the recipients once decisions have been made. Announcements regarding the opening of grant application windows are communicated to the community via email and Facebook.
How to Get Involved
There are several ways for the community to support Good Food Restaurants Charities:
In-store Donations: Each Happy Daz location features change receptacles at the counters where guests can easily make donations.
Seasonal Campaigns: Twice a year, around the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving, guests are invited to purchase a paper flag or pie for $1 to show their support. These campaigns also engage employees, who often participate in the check presentations, witnessing firsthand the impact of their efforts.
Annual Golf Outing: The Beer Barrel golf outing is held annually, with all proceeds benefiting Good Food Restaurants Charities.
Tax-Deductible Donations: Donations can also be mailed to: Good Food Restaurants Charities 1860 S. Dixie Highway Lima, OH 45804
Community Impact and Engagement
Erika Robinson, Secretary of Good Food Restaurants Charities, expresses how rewarding it is for employees to meet the organizations they support and hear their stories. This direct involvement not only strengthens their connection to the community but also inspires greater participation in future campaigns, knowing that even small contributions can lead to significant impacts.
Stay Connected
To stay updated, follow Good Food Restaurants Charities on social media or join the mailing list for Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill or Happy Daz Restaurants.
Scan the QR code to check out the GFR Charities Facebook page! Feel free to follow us & share with your friends. We don’t want you to miss out on photos and information on ways you can help us & our employees impact our community!
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Healthy Families Expo 2024
Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 10am - 1pm at the Civic Center
by Nicole Davis
The Healthy Families Expo is a wonderful annual event that is sponsored by Mercy Health. They bring education, fun and excitement for people of all ages. The Expo features: healthy community vendors, health screenings, food distributions from the West Ohio Food Bank, face painting, Santa Claus with live reindeer, a bounce house, dance demos, boxing demos and much more. The event is free and open to the public. The first 100 children receive a free t-shirt thanks to Humana.
New for 2024, Mark’s Ark will be on hand from noon to 1 pm for a special animal display. Children can see and touch animals from around the world! Mercy Health is so excited to bring this event back to downtown Lima for the 8th year in a row.
Josh Unterbrink, Director of Activate Allen County, says, “the Healthy Families Expo is our favorite day of the year. It is a one-stop-shop to learn about all things ‘health’ here in Allen County and is also an absolute blast. Don’t miss this unique and inspiring event.”
Talk of the Town
The Lima Symphony Orchestra 2024-2025 Season
The Lima Symphony Orchestra returns this fall with a transformative season of electricity, adventures and celebration!
In October, the symphony returns to the stage plugged-in as they welcome guest artist electric violinist Tracy Silverman. Listen to a fusion of progressive rock ‘ n ’ roll and classical music, then fall in love again with the romantic Romeo and Juliet Suite, this time with a happy ending.
Relish in a program for kings and queens this November as the symphony shares the stage with the Lima Symphony Chorus. Listen to Handel’s regal Water Music and choral anthems Moving forward into the 19th century, the program concludes with Brahms’ pastoral Symphony No. 2.
Celebrate the holidays with Bells, Brass & Bows as the symphony brings cherished Christmas films to life. Listen to the hauntingly beautiful soundtrack from The Nightmare Before Christmas, comical tunes from H the Grinch Stole Christmas, and the festive music of The Polar Express. Continuing their annual tradition, sing along with sacred hymns and beloved carols, then delight in the concluding piece: Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite.
Dance the night away this New Year’s Eve as the symphony welcomes back Jeans ‘ n Classics for an evening of Disco and Motown. Get your groove on with the sounds of Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, ABBA, and more.
In January, immerse yourself in a timeless representation of historical classical concerts as the symphony performs alongside magnificent sounds of the pipe organ Experience classical music in its most authentic form in the sanctuaries of beautiful churches in Lima and Minster.
Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! Bring your whole family on a “Symphonic Safari” as the symphony presents a concert for the whole family Witness animals come to life through a choreographed feature of life-sized animal puppets set to vibrant music.
In March, embark on an adventure to Spain as Music Director Andrew Crust leads the orchestra in a dramatic program of esteemed works set in the Spanish vista Delight in the seductive melodies from Bizet’s Carmen Suites then listen to the powerful allure of Ravel’s Bolero.
Discover the American sound in the symphony’s season finale as we explore the lively and energetic classics set in the American landscape
Journey from the Wild West to the Midwest with Copland’s Billy the Kid Suite and selections from his opera The Tender Land. But what is the American sound without the blues! Conclude your journey with America’s favorite Rhapsody in Blue.
F blues, and from the Baroque organ to the electric violin, this season promises something for every musical palate! Tickets and subscriptions are available now. Visit www limasymphony com
Electric Love
Saturday, October 19, 2024 // 7:30 PM
Veterans Memorial Civic Center
Karl Hirzer, guest conductor
Tracy Silverman, electric violin
Brahms and Water Music
Friday, November 8, 2024 // 7:30 PM
Veterans Memorial Civic Center
Lima Symphony Chorus
Bells, Brass & Bows
Saturday, December 14, 2024 // 7:30 PM
Veterans Memorial Civic Center
Sarah Webb, dancer
Lyn’s Academy of Dance
New Year’s Eve: Disco & Motown
Tuesday, December 31, 2024 // 7:30 PM
Veterans Memorial Civic Center
Jeans ‘ n Classics
Organ by Candlelight
Saturday, January 18, 2025 // 7:30 PM
Trinity United Methodist Church, Lima
Sunday, January 19, 2025 // 4:00 PM
St. Augustine Catholic Church, Minster
Jared Post, organ
Family Concert: Symphonic Safari
Sunday, February 2, 2025 // 3:00 PM
Veterans Memorial Civic Center
Carmen and Bolero
Saturday, March 8, 2025 // 7:30 PM
Veterans Memorial Civic Center
Greg Hamilton, clarinet
Gershwin and the American Sound
Saturday, April 5, 2025 // 7:30 PM
Veterans Memorial Civic Center
David Lai, piano
Kira McGirr, mezzo-soprano
Lima Symphony Chorus
Meet Shawnee High School’s Drum Major: WILL OWEN
by Georgie Damschroder
Leadership can be a very daunting task to take on. Having others rely on you for answers and guidance makes being a leader a stressful and difficult challenge. However, more and more local students have begun to tackle leadership roles and establish themselves as strong and capable people that others can look up to. One such student is Willam Owen, a junior at Shawnee High School. This year, Will has earned himself the spot of drum major, which is the highest position a student can hold in the Shawnee marching band. Along with literally leading the band through parades and performances by marching ahead of the group, Will works hard to keep the over ninety members of the band in time and sounding their best by diligently conducting throughout performances. The drum major is often dressed in more ornate clothing than the rest of the band and is responsible for providing commands to the ensemble, leading them while marching, and directing them what to play,
when to play, the dynamic or volume of playing, and what time to keep.
“I am the epitome of a student leader and serve as a role model for all band members, especially the underclassmen. I also serve as a bridge between the directors and students, helping both sides understand what needs to be done,” says Will.
The competition for the drum major role was exceptionally tough this year, but Will has proven time and time again that he is the right student for the job. He has quickly adapted to the many challenges presented by the role of drum major, and is currently working to better himself by training his hearing and adjusting to the sound differences between instruments and the distance they are from him. Band director, Jaz Bluhm said, “Drum Major Will serves as the ultimate role model and peer mentor to the members of the Band of One, helping them succeed musically and personally.”
Outside of band, Will is an incredible student who is known by his teachers and fellow students for being especially hardworking and determined. He has a deep interest in language, and has been taking Spanish for many years, making it by far his favorite subject. Will has also participated in many school extracurriculars throughout his high school career, showing himself to be an exceptionally dedicated student.
Despite his busy schedule, Will is always sure to make time to hang out with his close friends. He has also developed a passion for sand volleyball over this past summer and has gotten many of his friends
involved with the sport. Now, they often get together at Shawnee’s sand volleyball court to play a few games.
Will is a strong advocate for the rights of minorities, and works to create an equal environment for everyone, regardless of race, sexuality, or any other differences. He encourages others to be accepting of all, even if they differ from the status quo.
Will lives on Elmview Drive with his mother, who works as a band director for Botkins Local School, and his father, who is the athletic director of Shawnee. His brother is currently in his first semester of college at Bluffton University. Will’s dedication and leadership makes him a role model for everyone around him, and he continues to work to create a marching band, community, and school that Lima can be proud of.
Precious Pets
Pandemic Pets
by Georgie Damschroder
The COVID-19 pandemic was an incredibly difficult time for everyone. After all, being cooped up inside fearing illness is no one’s idea of a good time. There were many ways to help combat this pandemic stress and loneliness, but one of the most popular methods was to bring home a new pet. Nearly 20% of all Americans adopted a new furry friend throughout the pandemic, and spent billions upon billions of dollars on pet food, toys, and other amenities. And the companionship these pets brought into the lives of millions made them worth every penny, as many reported that their pets brought them the joy, laughter, and energy that was so needed during those difficult times. The best part? Over 80% of the pets adopted during the pandemic are still living with their families, having finally found their forever home.
One of these pandemic pets lives with the Wheeler family! Rocco is a four-year-old French Bulldog. He was adopted during the height of the pandemic and quarantine, which was right when his family needed his bright and spunky personality to brighten up their home!
“Rocco came into our lives when we needed him the most. He became part of our family straight away and is loved so much!” says Rocco’s mother, Tara.
Rocco loves nothing more than hopping in the car and tagging along with their daily adventures. Though his usual stops include the park to go for walks and the coffee shop to order pup cups, Rocco recently went on an escapade to Bass Pro Shops! There, he enjoyed an exciting day of being doted on by employees, watching the fish swim around their tanks, and even getting to pick out a toy for himself from the pet aisle. Tuckered out from his shopping spree, Rocco spent the entire car ride home snoozing in the back seat.
Though Rocco loves getting out of the house, he always appreciates a good day spent at home with his family, sunbathing on the porch and playing for hours at a time. Some evenings, this spoiled pooch is even given his own bowl of ice cream, which he is always quick to lick up!
Rocco is a very extroverted dog, and adores meeting new people and fellow pups. His fun-loving personality means that everyone he comes across is sure to become his friend! He has already become very popular with the neighborhood dogs, who are always quick to greet him whenever Rocco is out on a walk.
Rocco lives with his mom, Tara, who is the guidance and attendance secretary at Shawnee Middle School, his dad, Michael, who is a chiropractor at Rabe Chiropractic, and the Wheeler kids, Roselyn and Bruno, who will be entering ninth and seventh grade respectively this fall at Shawnee Schools. The Wheeler family enjoys the peace and quiet of where they live, and Rocco loves seeing and barking at the various wildlife that lives around the house.
Rocco’s love and light came into his family right when they needed it the most. Now, Rocco is living his best life, filled with all the love and ice cream a dog could ever ask for!
Brats & Spuds
from the kitchen of Judy and Dr. Richard Damschroder of Pro Drive
by Janine Douglass
Mercy Mat
As the wife of busy obstetrician/gynecologist in Lima, Dr. Richard L. Damschroder, Judy relied on the “expedience” of slow cooker meals to provide a hearty autumn meal that would be filling, tasty, and piping hot whenever Dick arrived home. The old crockpot cookbook from which Judy pulled this recipe when Dick was professionally active, was used a lot in those days. Now that the two have both retired, their lives are just as full, filled and fulfilled.
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Dick and Judy have lived in the same house off Pro Drive since 1981, and have three adult offsprings, all married, plus six beautiful granddaughters, (two of the latter in college this year), with whom the couple relishes spending time. Dick loves to garden with a large vegetable garden as proof. And because Dick is also a former vintner, the Damschroder wine cellar is stocked with the fruits of his labor. Judy enjoys scrapbooking, reading and walking, no doubt accompanied by their darling dachshund, Lizzy, both at their Shawnee home, and while spending time at their Indian Lake getaway.
Ingredients:
• 5-6 bratwurst links, cut into 1” pieces
• 5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 27 oz. can/jar sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
• 1 medium tart apple, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ tsp. salt
Directions:
1. Brown bratwurst on all sides in skillet.
2. Combine remaining ingredients in slow cooker. Stir in bratwurst and pan drippings.
3. Cover. Cook on high for 4-6 hours, or until potatoes and apples are tender.
Variation: Add a small amount of caraway seeds or crisp bacon pieces, just before serving.
Judy herself only sprinkles a tiny bit of brown sugar on top, and adds 1/4 cup cider to the pot. It’s a great fall recipe for any schedule-packed family, a couple, or a great treat for friends!
by Josh Keller
Back to Bavaria
During the summer, I returned to the land of schnitzels, biergartens, böllers, and lederhosen, with my wife Kate, and my aunt and uncle. For three weeks, we trekked across Bavaria enjoying most of our time in the small towns of Berchtesgaden and Mittenwald before visiting Salzburg, Vienna, and Munich.
In Berchtesgaden and Mittenwald we spent our time hiking in the Alps while enjoying the beer gardens and schnapps huts along the trails, taking a rowboat across the incomparable Königsee Lake, relaxing, and spending time with some of the greatest people you will ever meet. In between all the walking and beer we managed to return home with some traditional Bavarian items including lederhosen for me, a dirndl for Kate, and another böller to add to my collection (if you hear what sounds like an explosion in Indianbrook…it’s probably us).
After having our fill of the country life in the mountains, we spent time exploring Salzburg, Vienna, and Munich. There was no shortage of beautiful churches to see, palaces to roam, history to absorb, and biergartens to visit. Kate even found a “Sound of Music” themed guided bicycle tour in Salzburg that was surprisingly enjoyable as it gave us an opportunity to explore much of the city and surrounding countryside. Three must-dos were: Stiegl-Keller in Salzburg for a great view of the city and on a hot day enjoy a killer radler (a German beverage that’s a mix of beer and lemonade), Stöckl Biergarten in Vienna on the Belvedere palace grounds, and Andechs in Munich for the best beer in the world.
Sound of Music bike tour
Marienplatz in Munich
Salzburg
Above: Josh in lederhosen from Franz Stangassinger, handmade from mountain goat
Right: Josh’s böller (small cannon) & a boller workshop
Schnappshutte - mountainside schnapps hut
Königsee Lake
The only thing that rivaled the beautiful scenery and amazing history was the food. We feasted on traditional Bavarian cuisine including tafelspitz (boiled beef with root vegetables), kaiserschmarrn (a sweet fluffy scrambed pancake with rum-soaked raisins), streudel (pastry), schnitzel (thinly pounded meet that is breaded and fried), currywurst (sausage with curry ketchup), obatzda (beer cheese dip), leberkase (meatloaf made with a variety of ground meats), schweinehaxe (roasted
ham hock), sauerbraten (spiced braised beef), sauerkraut (fermented cabbage), and sausage. And of course beer. Lots and lots of beer. Prost!
Kehlsteinhaus - Hitler’s Eagles Nest
Hiking atop Karwendelspitze German/Austria border
Obersee
View of Königsee from Kehlsteinhaus Kate, hiking the Alps
Augustiner biergarten - largest biergarten in Munich’s city limits
Achenstüberl - our favorite local pub in Berchtesgaden
Sacher Torte - famous dessert in Vienna, made popular by the chef at Hotel Sacher
Josh at Hofbrauhaus biergarten in Munich
On Top of Europe
The Hollenbachers celebrate in Switzerland!
by Suzanne and John Hollenbacher
Since we were unable to truly celebrate our 50th birthdays and our 20th anniversary during Covid, we decided to make it right with the trip of a lifetime to Switzerland this summer. This was our first time “across the pond,” as some would say. Two months prior to departure, we planned an 8-day train trip that took us to three different locations and then spent the last four days visiting our destination of choice. One of the smartest decisions we made while planning our trip, was to utilize backpacks so that carrying our luggage wouldn’t be such a struggle. Something we didn’t plan for was the amount of special experiences and memories from this one vacation that we will gladly carry with us forever.
At first we wanted to go to Iceland, but with some research we found there wasn’t enough to keep us busy for 12 days and apparently, the food isn’t the greatest. Switzerland was high on our list for two reasons: English is spoken there and it is easy to visit many places quickly because of their excellent transportation capabilities.
Our trip began in Lucerne. We both thought this location represented Switzerland the best. The landscape, food, and culture all around us was truly what we had expected and dreamed about. But due to bad weather we missed an entire day of our trip and were only able to spend 24 hours here. However, we were able to visit the famous Victorinox store to purchase our very own set of Swiss steak knives and Swiss Army knives for all of our staff back at our business, Yazel’s Flowers and Gifts
If you are ever in Lucerne, you must visit Mount Pilatus. It is a very dramatic backdrop to the city and affords fantastic views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding areas at 7000 feet. Not only is the view spectacular on the mountaintop, but looking out from inside the cogwheel trains and gondolas was fantastic also.
Our next stop, Lugano, is a favorite vacation destination for locals. While looking across the water, a resemblance to gorgeous Italy was evident. From there we took a beautiful and breezy boat ride to Gandria, a little town off the water of Lake Lugano. While enjoying the cozy streets of Gandria we found ourselves at a local bar off the water to relax and take it all in. It was there that I tried my first Aperol Spritz and found it to be so refreshing! Back at Lugano we enjoyed strolling on the boardwalk and listening to several bands play while shopping at local markets.
Our third and final destination was St. Moritz, a luxurious ski resort town for the rich and famous, however, it was pretty void of any celebrities during the time we were there. Since skiing wasn’t an option, we visited Piz Nair and Muottas Muragl for all the sites. The views were gorgeous but the “alpine glow” of the sunset was breathtaking.
Lucerne
Lugano
Suzanne on a snowfield in St. Moritz
Bernina Glacier
Aperol Spritz
Gandria
After completing our trip on the train, we hauled our backpacks up the mountain to the village of Wengen in Launterbrunnen Valley, which is in the Berner Oberland region. It was here that we were able to stay for four days and unpack to finish out our vacation.
The Jungfrajoch – the highest peak in Europe, was the perfect spot to celebrate our 50th birthdays. We felt like we were on top of the world as we enjoyed an incredible cheese fondue lunch and visited an actual ice palace at the altitude of 11,333 feet.
Our final day was spent in a little village perched on a mountaintop shelf called Murren. The only way to visit Murren was by cogwheel train and on foot. We loved taking our time here because we could watch paragliders jump off the cliffs and fly over the valley. It was so surreal. Murren is the quintessential Switzerland village.
Switzerland is one of the world’s largest chocolate producers and exporters, so of course we had to partake throughout our trip. We must have brought home five pounds of chocolate. The pastries we discovered were divine and we found our favorite chocolate croissant at the train stations.
No matter where you visit in Switzerland, you will want to relish in the breathtaking scenery, appreciate the culture, indulge in decadent chocolate, satisfy your cheese cravings, and create memories that leave you feeling on top of the world. It is “mein lieblingsplatz” – my favorite place.
Jungfraujoch Mountain, Berber Oberland region
Lauterbrunnen Valley Wengen
A beautiful sunset in St. Moritz
Sponsor Spotlight
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An Investment Reality Check
by Michael McCormick, CPA
I’ve spent years helping people manage their finances, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that most of us tend to overestimate our comfort with risk—especially when it comes to investing. We imagine ourselves as cool, calm, and collected, ready to face the ups and downs of the market with the steely resolve of Gordon Gecko. But in reality? We’re more like someone who thinks they can handle a double-diamond ski run after a few lessons on the bunny slopes.
Think about it: how often do we overestimate our abilities in everyday situations? Take driving in bad weather, for example. Who hasn’t thought, “I’ve got this,” as they head out in a snowstorm, only to find themselves gripping the wheel in sheer panic as their car starts sliding across Shawnee Road? Or, what about those home improvement projects we’re so confident we can tackle after watching a five-minute Chip and Joanna Gaines YouTube tutorial? Sure, it looks easy, until you’re knee-deep in drywall dust, Googling “how to fix what I just did.”
The Risk Reality
Many of us make the mistake of assuming we’re comfortable with more risk than we actually are. When the markets are calm, and things are going well, it’s easy to say, “I’m okay with some volatility. I’m in it for the long haul!” But the minute the market dips, we’re scrambling to check our portfolios, sweating over every percentage drop, and frantically calling our financial advisors.
What’s worse, our portfolios often reflect this overconfidence. We’re so convinced that we can handle the ups and downs that we end up with investments that are far riskier than we realize. It’s like signing up for a marathon after a few jogs around the block—optimistic, but not exactly realistic.
Finding Your True Risk Tolerance
Investing is no different. We think we can handle the market’s twists and turns, only to realize that our nerves aren’t quite as steely as we thought when things get rocky.
So, how do you figure out your true risk tolerance? First, stress test your portfolio. You should understand the expected rate of return of your mix of assets, as well as the range of volatility (standard deviation number) you must be able to endure to get that return. They both need to be aligned with your comfort level. If they set up for a younger you, who had more time and could be more willing to ride the roller coaster, you probably will not have
a successful investing experience. I’ve had clients that needed high returns to make up for lost time, but they couldn’t handle the downside that make the returns possible. I also have clients that prefer the merry-go-round. If your portfolio is exciting, you’re probably taking too much risk.
Next, stress test yourself.
Consider how you react to financial news. If a minor dip in the market sends you into a tailspin, you might not be as risk tolerant as you thought. And that’s okay! The key is to invest in a way that is right for you—not for your neighbor, your cousin, or your investor friend who’s always boasting about his latest stock picks. That means knowing ahead of time what the historical range of possibilities of your mix of assets can produce and being realistic about how you will respond
when the portfolio does what it was designed to do. If the portolio analysis shows your portfolio mix of assets is expected to generate too much volatility for your liking, reduce the amount allocated to equities (stocks) and more to short-term fixed income. If the analysis shows your portfolio’s expected return is below your needs or expectations, reduce the amount allocated to fixed income and increase the amount allocated to equities/stocks (diversified across the globe).
The Portfolio Reality Check
It’s time for a portfolio reality check. Sit down with a financial professional and review your portfolio’s anticipated extremes (highs and lows). Make sure they match your true risk tolerance—not just the one you think you have. It might mean adjusting your portfolio to reduce risk or diversifying more, but in the end, you’ll be glad you did. Do it now before you get tested and are tempted to panic.
Remember, investing isn’t about proving how brave you are. It’s about growing your wealth in a way that lets you sleep soundly at night. So, let’s leave the overestimations to the snowstorms and home improvement projects, and get real about how much risk we’re really willing to take.
If your portfolio is exciting, you’re probably taking too much risk. Wouldn’t it be better to know your true comfort level now rather than find out the hard way during the next market downturn?
Your future self—your family—and your blood pressure—will thank you.
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
ELECTRIC LOVE
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 our participating sponsors:
