Thanksgiving from The Wannemachers
THE
“We are funeral directors, but our profession is really all about life. It’s about the events, large and small, that affect us every day. Our experiences have taught us how to help you honor your loved ones in a way that transforms fond memories into a truly meaningful, personal life celebration event. We are just like you … someone who appreciates living each moment.”
BAYLIFF FAMILY
Pictured: Top Row: Brooklyn, Angela Knotts (Licensed Crematory Operator)
Middle Row: Valery Bayliff Fultz (Licensed Funeral Director), Gary Fultz, John Bayliff (Licensed Funeral Director), Becky Bayliff (Licensed Funeral Director) Bottom Row: Dayrius & Tyla
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
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
WINDOW TREATMENTS
Affordable Window Fashions (419) 991-4400
WINDOWS & DOORS
All Service Glass (800) 521-7059
November CONT ENTS
See what’s cookin’ in Shawnee and meet the chef behind the recipe.
Guest author, Billy Gladwell, helps us understand various topics in the personal development realm.
Learn
for the
Learn how Mercy Health supports the
nity
Our lifestyle expert selects an event she has attended
Our
or events in the two schools readers in
circulation attend:
Check out how a local centarian celebrated her 100th birthday.
Learn about how Bayliff & Son Funeral
makes it their mission to be a legacy of excellence and innovation.
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!
From Diane’s Desk...
You may have noticed a new addition to our Shawnee Life Tribe....my ten-year-old son, Evan! He has been my assistant since we started in April of 2022, but he recently asked why his photo wasn’t in the tribe section. Of course he should be included and I can’t believe I didn’t think of adding him sooner! He is my right-hand man. He enjoys hiding the feather for the Find the Feather contest, however he likes to challenge the readers a little too much, so at times I must ask him to ease up a bit. As my assistant, he also checks that I have included all of our sponsors’ ads, drops off extra issues when ordered by our sponsors or contributors, organizes the inventory of extra issues, helps with contest giveaways on Facebook Live, and has mentioned interest in graphic design, so you may see some of his work soon, especially with his tribe photo as he wants to “decorate” his monthly photo, just like his dad. The name of our LLC is DEN Publishing. Very few know that DEN stands for Diane, Evan and Nick. It truly is a family endeavor and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all! I hope you have a fun and pleasant holiday with friends and family! We are visiting Frankenmuth, Michigan for the first time so I am extra excited to spend the holiday in a new place!
As usual, 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.
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
Maria Pignataro Amazing Achievers
Evan Schoonover Find the Feather & Publisher’s Assistant
Nick Schoonover Pour Some Gravy On Me
Know Your Neighbors
Meet the WANNEMACHERS
by Julie Lundin
Meet the Wannemacher family of Indian Shores on Fraunfelter Road in Shawnee: Wes, Dawn, Christian, Lauren, Anna, along with their beloved dogs, Yoshi and Rocky. The Wannemachers have lived in their home for two years, but have been residents of Lima for many more! “We love looking out at the lake and enjoy seeing all of the wildlife. It’s a very relaxing and calm place to live,” commented Dawn.
Wes and Dawn both grew up in Lima. Wes graduated from LCC, and then attended both Xavier University and the University of Illinois. He is currently an Engineering Manager at Cisco. Dawn went to Elida, Rhodes State College, and the Ohio State Beauty Academy. Their three children all attended St. Charles and LCC. Christian is 29 years old and a captain in the US Army. He is currently stationed in Fayetteville, North Carolina. His visits home are always cherished by both Wes and Dawn. Lauren is 27 years old and was the Homecom-
ing Queen at LCC in 2015. She is also a graduate of The Ohio State University with a degree in liberal arts. Currently, she is volunteering her time at St. Charles School.
Anna is a sophomore at Bowling Green State University where she is studying criminal justice. In addition, she is on the BGSU women’s rugby team. Wes and Dawn love to take Wes’s sister, Leann, with them to visit Anna and watch the rugby games. Along with their children, Wes and Dawn dearly love their four-legged poochies, Yoshi and Rocky. Yoshi is a 12-year-old Chinese Crested dog and Rocky is a three-year-old Yorkie Poo. According to Dawn, Rocky loves going to doggie daycare to play with all of his friends!
The Wannemachers are self-proclaimed foodies. They love to try new restaurants and Dawn enjoys cooking new things for the family. Tacos and wings are Dawn’s favorite “go-to” recipes, but Wes also enjoys anything new that she makes. Their favorite place to eat in Lima is Skyline Chili because of the delicious chili and crackers. Wes and Dawn can also be found downtown checking out all of the new places that have come to Lima. They are big sports fans, faithfully watching the Buckeyes, Falcons, Reds, and Bengals. Lastly, quiet nights at home are also welcome…sitting and watching new Netflix shows is a favorite, with Yellowstone, Shotgun, and Slow Horses at the top of the list.
Family vacations for the Wannemacher family are always enjoyable, and Dawn’s mom, Lynda, frequently plans great trips. Disney World and Universal in Florida are favorites, but they also love Hawaii! “The islands are
beautiful and they are so different from the mainland,” said Wes. Each year Lynda plans for the family to go to new places and try new things.
As Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, Wes and Dawn are looking forward to spending the holiday with the family at their house in Lima. Dawn will, once again, prepare everyone’s favorites: green bean casserole and stuffing with gravy. The Wannemachers will definitely have a full and happy house for the Thanksgiving weekend!
Shawnee Life wishes you and your family a safe, relaxing, and blessed Thanksgiving holiday.
Why Crying Over Awesome Stuff Makes You Smarter, Less Stressed, and
by Billy Gladwell
Humans are emotional beings, and no matter how much we like to think we can separate ourselves from our feelings, emotions run the show. That’s just a fact. But here’s the thing— many of us don’t allow ourselves to fully experience emotional moments, especially the overwhelming ones that involve tears, awe, or the quiet gut punch of watching someone perform at their absolute best. And we’re missing out.
More Creative
Why? Because when you let yourself fully experience these emotional highs and lows, you unlock a world of benefits— things like deeper emotional intelligence, reduced stress, and heightened creativity. Yet, society tells us to “keep it together,” to avoid showing vulnerability. We need to rethink that.
We often see crying as weakness, a sign that we’ve somehow lost control. But here’s the kicker—crying when you witness something exceptional is one of the purest reactions you can have. It’s a testament to the fact that you’re deeply attuned to the beauty and excellence of human expression. Think about it—when you hear a piece of music that hits you right in the soul, or when you see a play that moves you to tears, that emotional response is your body saying, “Hey, this matters.” You’re recognizing greatness in that moment, and it moves you on a fundamental level.
Despite these powerful benefits, many humans—especially men—are taught to suppress their emotions, believing that crying shows weakness. But here’s the truth—crying doesn’t make you less of a man—it makes you more of a human. If someone mocks you for showing emotion, it says more about their inability to handle vulnerability than it does about you. There’s immense strength in allowing yourself to be moved by something powerful. The next time someone throws that “real men don’t cry” nonsense at you, remember—emotions don’t define your masculinity—they highlight your humanity. The ability to feel deeply—and express it—is a sign of emotional intelligence and maturity. So, don’t let their discomfort with your tears dictate how you experience life.
Now, let’s dive into the overlooked benefits of experiencing these emotional moments fully—benefits that many humans miss because they’re too focused on keeping a stiff upper lip.
First, there’s the boost to emotional intelligence. We’ve all heard the term thrown around in self-help circles, but emotional intelligence is just a fancy way of saying you’re aware of your own emotions and know how to manage them. When you allow yourself to really feel something—whether it’s joy, sadness, or awe—you’re teaching yourself to understand those emotions better. You become more in tune with what makes you tick, and that self-awareness pays off down the road when you’re faced with tough decisions or emotional stress.
Second, emotional moments create stronger memories. Think about the last time you saw something that genuinely moved you—odds are, you remember it in vivid detail. That’s because our brains are wired to store emotional experiences differently than your average, everyday events. The emotional charge enhances memory retention, making those moments stand out in a way that mundane experiences never will. So, when you let yourself get swept up in the moment, you’re essentially creating a mental highlight reel of life’s most impactful experiences.
Then there’s empathy—something we could all use more of these days. When you’re moved by someone else’s performance or creation, you’re not just feeling your own emotions. You’re tapping into the emotions of the artist, the performer, the human behind that moment of excellence. It’s like a direct line into their experience, and that helps you understand and connect with others on a deeper level. Feeling someone else’s pain or joy through their art makes you a more compassionate human—and that’s a skill that pays dividends in every relationship you have.
Let’s talk about stress. We’re all walking around with cortisol levels through the roof, and most of us don’t even realize it. But here’s the good news—experiencing emotional moments is a natural stress reliever. Crying, laughing, feeling awe—it’s all an emotional release. And that release helps to lower stress hormones, keeping burnout and anxiety at bay. So, the next time you feel like you’re on the verge of tears because of a song or a performance—don’t hold back. Let it out. Your body will thank you for it.
But the benefits don’t stop there. Fully engaging with emotional moments also boosts focus and mindfulness. When you’re absorbed in a moment of excellence—when all you can think
about is how beautifully someone is playing an instrument, or how flawlessly a dancer is moving—you’re not worrying about your email inbox or that meeting you have tomorrow. You’re in the moment, fully present, and that’s a powerful skill. Being able to focus like that improves your overall mental wellbeing, helping you stay grounded and in control.
There’s also a sense of meaning that comes with these experiences. Letting yourself be moved by greatness reminds you of what matters in life. It rekindles your sense of purpose, your connection to the world, and your drive to pursue what moves you. That’s not something you can manufacture—it has to come from within, and emotional moments help you tap into it.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly for some, feeling deeply ignites creativity. When you allow yourself to experience raw emotion, it sparks new ideas, insights, and ways of thinking. It’s no coincidence that some of the most creative humans are also the most emotionally attuned. The more you feel, the more you have to express—whether that’s through art, writing, problem-solving, or any other creative outlet.
Now, you might be wondering—how do you experience these moments more often?
To truly harness these benefits, it’s essential to invite more of these emotional moments into your life. Start with what resonates most with you. If music moves you, create the space to listen more often—really listen. Don’t just play it in the background while you work. Sit down, close your eyes, and let the melodies and lyrics wash over you. Go to live performances—whether it’s a local band or a renowned symphony. The energy of being in the room, surrounded by others who are just as captivated, amplifies the experience.
The same goes for other forms of art. Visit galleries, watch films that challenge or inspire you, attend theater productions. Push yourself to engage with the kind of work that makes you think, “This is what life is about.” And don’t stop at the mainstream stuff—sometimes the most powerful emotions are stirred by the unexpected, the indie film or obscure artist whose work hits you like a truck because it’s raw and real.
It’s also about being more present in your everyday life. We spend so much time distracted, bouncing between screens and multitasking, that we miss the small moments of awe all around us. Mindfulness—or the practice of being fully present in the moment—can help you tap into those emotional experiences more often. It’s not about forcing yourself to feel something—it’s about giving yourself the space and attention to feel whatever comes up.
Another way to invite these emotional moments into your life is by connecting deeply with others. Conversations with close friends or family—or even a heart-to-heart with a stranger— can bring out emotions you didn’t even realize were there. When you’re truly present with another human, listening and sharing openly, it creates an emotional connection that often leads to those deeply moving moments.
Ultimately, allowing yourself to experience these emotional highs isn’t just about waiting for something extraordinary to happen. It’s about creating opportunities for awe, for beauty, for connection. By actively seeking out experiences that move you—and by giving yourself permission to fully feel them— you’ll find that those moments of deep emotional impact become a regular part of your life. And the benefits they bring— from heightened creativity to a stronger sense of purpose—will follow.
Stop suppressing your emotions. Stop trying to “stay strong” in moments of beauty or awe. Let yourself feel it. Let the tears come. Let the goosebumps rise. Not only will you experience life more fully, but you’ll also unlock a deeper level of emotional intelligence, creativity, and personal growth. Isn’t that what we’re all after?
Meet Billy Gladwell
I’m an expert on hypnosis, influence, and persuasion. Some of the things I do are...
• Help humans make changes and overcome challenges
• Consult with mental healthcare professionals on hypnosis and how to integrate it into their practice
• Instruct mental healthcare professionals on how to be more effective and efficient in the therapy room
• Give sales professionals the skills needed to hear “yes” quicker and more often
• Teach humans communication skills so they can have deeper, meaningful, and constructive conversations
•
by Christopher
Cancer Care Full Steam Ahead!
Life is full of choices. On the other hand, there are some things we would never choose, if given the option. So, it is important to discern how to handle those circumstances that are out of our control. A cancer diagnosis is one of those things that we do not choose and is not in our control. It is at that moment that we simply make the best choice we can to find a team we can trust and rely on for support. Choosing a great team means looking for an experienced physician with a welltrained staff capable of handling your care.
For 23 years Doctor David Powell has served the Lima community as a cancer specialist. Cancer Care started small, in an office near Saint Rita’s Hospital with a staff of ten people. But the exceptional care and dedication shown to patients made a big impact in Lima. By 2008, Cancer Care expanded to its current location at 2740 West Market Street. This larger location made it possible to care for more patients in a quality setting.
Designed by JoAnn DeHaven, our office pays tribute to Lima’s rich train building history. Before the state
highway infrastructure was complete, trains were the backbone of America’s distribution network. Delivering goods across the country, the engines that ran on those tracks were built here in Lima, Ohio. Building train locomotives made Lima into the town we know today.
A train enthusiast himself, Doctor Powell contributed much of the early décor and memorabilia to the office. However, over the years of caring for the people of Lima, our collection has grown. To show appreciation for our caring team, the patients and patients’ families have gifted our office with special memen-
tos and family heirlooms, as well as historical items from Lima’s rich train engine building history. In some ways, our own office doubles as a museum showcasing the history of trains in Lima, Ohio. And that is all thanks to the wonderful patients we have seen over the past twenty-three years.
Authentic map from 1910 actually used on the railroad and gifted to Dr. Powell
Train painting by Sue Bee, 2008
Kris Bellman. Dr. David Powell, Jill Kuhlman
L. Powell, Office Manager - Cancer Care of West Central Ohio
Building train engines was hard work and takes dedicated men and women to make it happen. The same is true of Cancer Care of West Central Ohio. We work hard to make sure that we have the plan in place to offer the best care possible. Our dedicated front desk staff is always your first point of contact and we rely on them to handle your phone calls and assist you in making appointments. We not only help to schedule appointments in our own office, but we work to schedule your scans and assessments when needed. Cancer Care has a team of experienced nurses here every day to ensure the best possible care. Our office includes a spacious infusion area allowing patients to comfortably receive their care in Lima, close to those who know their treatment plan the best. To assist in all aspects of your care, we also have a billing department that will work closely with our patients to cover your insurance questions. The billing staff works with all our patients to find healthcare programs and financial aid, allowing our patients to focus on healing and not on the hassle of healthcare expenses.
Doctor Powell has been treating cancer for over 25 years. Living in Lima and an active member of the community means that he knows how cancer affects every one of us. It is his dedication to his patients and expertise in medicine that continues to make him the best choice in Lima for Cancer Care. In the 25 years of caring for patients, cancer has changed, but so has the way we treat cancer. Doctor Powell utilizes the latest therapies to treat cancer and care for the patient.
No one chooses cancer, yet you can choose to treat cancer differently. Choose a doctor that has the experience to develop a completely personal treatment plan. Choose a team of nurses that know your care plan. Choose a team that keeps you close to home. Choose Cancer Care of West Central Ohio.
Cancer Care Staff - Back Row (standing): Mary Ann, Becca, Kim, Gina, Sharon, Stephanie, Jill, Kris, Penny, Gail / Middle Row (sitting): Marissa, Angie, Mandi, Jean Front row: Dr. David Powell, Christopher Powell
Watercolor of Cancer Care building
Making a Mark
Forging Strength, reSilience, and community
In a world that often feels disconnected, Warriors Way is uniting people through the ancient craft of knife-making. Founded by David Bates, a decorated veteran, Warriors Way is not just an organization; it’s a movement empowering individuals to discover strength, resilience, and community.
Meet the Founder: David Bates
David Bates, the driving force behind Warriors Way, is a U.S. Army veteran who served three tours in Iraq with the 1st Cavalry Division. Like many veterans, David faced challenges transitioning to civilian life, including PTSD. He found that recreational therapy, particularly through knife-making and hands-on crafts, played a vital role in his healing. His passion for sharing these benefits inspired the creation of Warriors Way.
David’s dedication to helping others has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the local Jefferson Award and the first national Jackie Kennedy Onassis Award recipient in Lima, Ohio. His story exemplifies the transformative power of craftsmanship and the profound impact one person can have on a community.
From the Grudge Match to the Expo
The Warriors Way Expo originated from the “Grudge Match” at the Central Ohio School of Metalwork, where knife makers tested their skills and showcased their craftsmanship. This small gathering evolved into a large-scale Expo, featuring over 22 skilled knife makers and drawing participants and spectators alike. This transformation reflects the growth and ambition of Warriors Way as it continues to expand its reach and impact within the community.
The Expo has become a premier event that celebrates creativity and skill, bringing together artisans and enthusiasts who share a passion for craftsmanship. It serves not only as a platform for showcasing talent but also as a way to educate the public about the art of knife-making.
Mission and Vision
At its core, Warriors Way is dedicated to empowering individuals through skillbuilding and personal development. The mission is to provide opportunities for people to discover their inner strength, develop practical skills, and cultivate a sense of purpose. By teaching the art of knife-making, Warriors Way fosters resilience, patience, and creativity—qualities that are essential in everyday life.
The organization envisions a community where everyone feels valued and supported, whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or a beginner picking up a hammer for the first time. This inclusive environment encourages participants to embrace their creativity and find their place within the Warriors Way family.
Programs and Activities
One of the most exciting aspects of Warriors Way is its hands-on approach to teaching. The organization offers various programs, workshops, and events tailored to different skill levels. The annual knife-making expo showcases incredible craftsmanship, allowing participants to witness the entire process of creating knives from start to finish.
This year’s expo is scheduled for November 16th from 10AM5PM at our shop located at 3865 S. Dixie Hwy, and will feature live demonstrations, including making crucible steel using a 25kw induction forge. Attendees will engage in the journey from raw steel to a finished blade, gaining insights into the artistry involved. On November 17th, an auction will begin at noon, providing an opportunity to bid on unique creations and support the mission of Warriors Way. Join us!
Throughout the year, Warriors Way hosts workshops teaching knife-making, blacksmithing, and metalworking. These workshops provide a supportive environment where participants can learn from experienced craftsmen and gain valuable hands-on experience.
Chief Marketing Officer, Jeff Dauterman, and Founder, David Bates
New Initiatives: Archery Program and Fundraiser Banquet
Warriors Way is excited to announce the launch of a veteran/youth traditional archery program set to begin in April 2025. This new initiative aims to provide veterans and young people with an opportunity to learn archery, build confidence, and develop a sense of focus and discipline. Through this program, participants will not only learn a valuable skill but also forge connections and build friendships in a supportive setting.
To support this initiative, Warriors Way, in partnership with Whitetails Unlimited, is hosting a fundraiser banquet on November 9th at the Auglaize County Fairgrounds. This event promises to be a night of celebration, featuring delicious food, engaging activities, and an opportunity to connect with the community. We are actively seeking sponsors for this event to help raise the necessary funds to kickstart the archery program. Your support will enable us to provide equipment, training, and resources for veterans and youth interested in exploring this traditional skill.
The Urgency of Growth: Investing in Our Future
As Warriors Way continues to grow, we are looking toward an ambitious goal—purchasing our own property to facilitate hosting events and the archery program. Owning a space is essential to ensure the sustainability and expansion of our programs, allowing us to reach more individuals and make a greater impact. However, this requires significant financial support, and we need your help now more than ever. By raising these funds, we will have the foundation necessary to provide a permanent home for Warriors Way’s activities and to continue empowering individuals for years to come.
The Backbone of Warriors Way: Our Partners and Donors
The mission of Warriors Way would be impossible without the support of our dedicated partners and donors. Organizations such as Moose Lodge Post 199, United Way of Greater Lima, VFW Post 8445, American Legion Post 330, and Palmgren have been instrumental in helping us achieve our goals. Their generous contributions have enabled us to provide services to those who need them most, ensuring our continued growth and outreach.
In the 2023 fiscal year alone, Warriors Way was able to provide services to an impressive 702 individuals, thanks to the unwavering support of our partners. These collaborations are more than just financial contributions; they represent a commitment to empowering veterans, youth, and anyone seeking a path to personal growth and resilience.
How You Can Get Involved
Warriors Way is always looking for ways to engage with the community and welcomes anyone who wants to be part of our mission. If you’re interested in learning a new skill, check out our free/donation-based classes under the events section of our Facebook page. We are also in need of volunteers, sponsors, or donations to help us purchase our own property. Email us at WarriorsWayForge@gmail.com with any questions.
More Than Just a Nonprofit
Warriors Way is more than just a nonprofit—it’s a testament to the power of craftsmanship, community, and the human spirit. By teaching the art of knife-making and soon traditional archery, Warriors Way is preserving time-honored traditions and forging a brighter future for individuals and communities alike. Join Warriors Way on this incredible journey!
Mon - Thursday: 4pm-9pm Friday - Sat 12pm-11pm Sunday 12pm-9pm
Introducing the New Volunteer/Auxiliary Resources Director, SARA HEITMEYER
by Nicole Davis
Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center would like to introduce their new Director of Volunteer/Auxiliary Resources, Sara Heitmeyer. Sara joins St. Rita’s excited to have the opportunity to partner with others to make a difference in the lives of those in the community. After working with volunteers since 2016, Sara finds it so admirable that people choose to give of their time to come help others. She chose her new role as Director of Volunteer/Auxiliary Resources because everyone at Mercy Health - St. Rita’s Medical Center truly cares about helping one another, their patients, and their community. Sara expressed, “What a privilege I have to get to be the hands and feet of Jesus each and every day.”
Sara grew up and lived in Lima, graduating from Shawnee High School in 2001. From there she received her MBA from UNOH and even graduated in their first MBA class. Prior to working at St. Rita’s, she worked with CASA of Allen & Putnam Counties, which is a fabulous volunteer organization that advocates for abused and neglected children in our community. To Sara, the best part of working with volunteers is the people! She went on to share about her experience at St. Rita’s, “Our volunteers are so much fun. There are so many opportunities, and each day is unique. Coming to work and having fun every day is one of our specialties in the Volunteer Department.” Volunteering with St. Rita’s is so unique because you can do just about anything you want. There are volunteers who deliver mail, help in the Thrift Shop (off site), visit in patient rooms, offer comfort items to patients in pain, stock rooms, assist in the Cancer Center, visit Veterans, offer spiritual care, greet visitors, play music, and even make crafts! The best part – no day looks alike.
Life outside of work for Sara is all about family. Her husband Erik is from Kalida, Ohio and works at Honda (Anna plant). Together they have four kids - all attending or graduated from Shawnee.
Their oldest son, Jonah (21) works full time at Honda and recently purchased his first home. They have twin boys, Connor & Brady (16) who are sophomores at Shawnee and their daughter Aubrey (15) is a freshman at Shawnee. You will find the Heitmeyers on a sports field of some type all year round (soccer, cross country, basketball, and track). When the family does have a free evening, you’ll find them having smores in their backyard around the firepit or at the movies.
Whether someone is looking to volunteer or support, there are many options at Mercy Health - St. Rita’s Medical Center, in the Volunteer/Auxiliary Resources department. Many people do not realize that there is a volunteer-run thrift shop, located at 528 W. North St. It’s a great place to shop, donate and volunteer (talk about a one-stop shop!). There are also several fundraisers throughout the year. The biggest one is coming up on Thursday, December 5 – The Annual Holiday Street Fair. The Volunteer Craft Club works hard throughout the entire year to prepare for this event. All monies raised by volunteers, including the Gift and Thrift Shop, stay local. This year, the volunteers will pay off a pledge of $1 million that went towards the development of the Graduate Medical Education Building!
St. Rita’s Medical Center
St. Rita’s Medical Center Thrift Store
- Scan the QR code
- Visit the website: www.mercy.com/ about-us/careers/volunteering/apply-now
- Call 419-226-9038
- Email SRMCVolunteer@mercy.com.
Outreach Committee at Allen Oakwood for Fresh Start Clothing Project
Sara, Karen Chadwell (volunteer) and Carissa (Project Search intern)
The Team: Linda, Heidi & Sara w/Carissa
Sara with volunteers at a training meeting
Top row: Jonah, Erik, Connor / Bottom row: Aubrey, Sara, Grandma, Brady
Lima Symphony Orchestra’s Annual Wine Tasting & Auction
by Tara Reunolds
On September 19, 2024, Lima Symphony Orchestra (LSO) kicked off the 2024/2025 Season with its annual Wine Tasting & Auction event at 19 Hawthorne. Over two hundred supporters ate delicious food, drank fine wine, bid on fantastic items, and socialized with friends throughout the night.
Rob Nelson of The Met served up flavorful appetizers that had LSO supporters going back for seconds and thirds. Crab croquettes were full of sweet crab meat that melted in my mouth. The Met’s spinach and artichoke dip is always a crowd pleaser. The smoked brisket was tender and full of savory, beefy flavor. Thank you to Rob and his team for their culinary perfection.
Auctioneer Mike Reindel, encouraged attendees to bid on items. Hands were up and down trying to be the winner of a week stay in Panama, a luxury two-day stay at The Henry - Autograph Collection Hotel in Dearborn, MI, and a stay at the Nicewonder Farm and Vineyards in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Bristol, Virginia. The sports enthusiasts in the room went all in to win club level tickets to a Cincinnati Bengals game. The hot item of the night was two deck-level tickets to watch The OSU Buckeyes beat the Michigan Wolverines. O-H-I-O!!!
What’s a wine tasting without wine? Wine aficionados were excited by the wines such as Duckhorn Merlot, Cakebread Chardonnay, and wines from Caymus Vineyards up for auction. Bidding was in full force for a hard-to-find 2019 Opus One wine. Lima is allocated one case per year, so LSO supporters were motivated to score this rare find. Thanks to the passion for wine from LSO supporters, thousands were raised during the wine portion of the live auction.
Deputy Warden for Special Services, Corey Foster described the impact of the LSO’s Healing Through Music program on incarcerated persons at Allen Oakwood Correctional Institution (AOCI). LSO party goers learned about Healing Through Music, a program developed in 2018, which is focused on outreach to our community members who are actively fighting opioid crisis and experiencing mental illness. As part of this program, Lima Symphony musicians have performed for people in a variety of locations, including AOCI. Deputy Warden Foster expressed his appreciation for having LSO’s partnership. Bringing LSO to AOCI gives incarcerated persons time and space for reflection. “Music can play a valuable role in rehabilitation by promoting well-being, positive behavior and personal growth.”
LSO Executive Director, Elizabeth Brown-Ellis, conveyed the importance of the program work at AOCI: “This groundbreaking partnership is Director,
much more
Elizabeth Brown-Ellis & Conductor, Andrew Crust about so
Danielle & Corey Foster
Rob & Nicole Nelson, Jim & Amy Morrissey
Bales
than just performing music. We have forged relationships, created something meaningful and lasting together, and given the men of AOCI a positive outlet to process their emotions. We are very thankful for Corey and all of the visionary leaders at AOCI.” The attendees were so moved by the Healing Through Music program, that many raised their paddle to give to the program. Thousands of dollars were donated to support the LSO and AOCI relationship. The Healing Through Music program is made possible by generous donations from Altria, Mercy Health at St. Rita’s, and Rudolph Foods.
Once again, LSO’s annual kickoff was a success. Money was raised to continue with LSO programing, community partnerships, school outreach, and to bring magnificent performances to Lima. It was wonderful to be in a room full of LSO supporters and I encourage readers to attend next year’s event.
Jerilyn Neeper, Jon Neeper, Kurt Neeper
Cheryl Steinwedel, Jim Gideon, Judy Bowers
Don & Helena Knowles
Elsa & Ken Malcom, Anne Gideon
Tara Reynolds Bales
Jeff & Joyce Tracy
Achievers
Amazing
by Maria Pignataro
Positive Peer Advocates at Lima Central Catholic High School
Students at Lima Central Catholic started the school year off with lots of positive energy. A student lead club, Positive Peer Advocates (PPA) spent a week dedicated to building relationships, spreading kindness, and encouraging students to engage with one another. This week was called “Start With Hello Week” and members of PPA came up with various activities to help spread that positivity throughout the hallways. Start With Hello fell on the week of September 16th-20th. This is very intentional given that September is National Suicide Prevention Month. Mental health is a huge focus point within this club, and members dedicate their time to help other students feel seen and welcomed in the school community. Being a part of activities and resources that support positive mental health is something I care deeply about, which is why I decided to dedicate my time to serve as co-president along with fellow senior Emma Skinner. The group meets biweekly to bounce ideas off of each other. “I love the environment all of our members help create, and I think our group works together very well,” says Emma Skinner. “It’s also really encouraging having the younger freshmen and sophomores step up and be involved.”
Now, what exactly did “Start With Hello Week” consist of? On Monday, PPA members passed out name tags to the student body. Students were encouraged to write their name, as well as an adjective describing them and wear it around during school. As simple as this seems, this was a great way to get students to greet each other and give a smile. It was also effective in encouraging the students in different grades become familiar with each other. This was called “Meet and Greet Monday.”
On “Tasteful Tuesday,” fruits were
passed out to students as they entered school. This was to help energize the students and start their day off right. On “Well-Being Wednesday,” sticky notes were placed on every student’s locker. Classmates had the opportunity to write positive messages on each others’ lockers. This brings a little extra joy into the school community seeing colorful, positive messages filling the halls. Even just a small compliment from a stranger could completely change someone’s day. That is something so sensitive and beautiful about what the Positive Peer Advocates are trying to convey. Most students actually keep these notes up for the remainder of the year. “Thought-
ful Thursday” consisted of positive notes on clothespins. PPA members wrote compliments on clothespins and secretly clipped them onto students throughout the day. This brought a light and humorous energy to the day. It was a great way for students to say nice things to their friends while bringing an element of fun. Students would find clips on their backpacks, shirts and even hair!
The last day of the week was definitely the biggest. On Friday, the school held a “Walk and Talk, Suicide Prevention Walk.” Students were also encouraged to wear their You Matter shirts! During this thirty minute walk, juniors were paired up with sophomores, and freshmen paired with seniors. This walk created an opportunity to get outside for some fresh air, but more importantly the event was designed for students to engage with people they wouldn’t normally talk to. Seniors were able to answer questions from freshmen and help them feel more comfortable with the transition into highschool. Teachers even joined in on this walk. It was a great way to end Start With Hello Week and brought a sense of unity among the student body.
Over the course of this week, some PPA members took the initiative to provide mental health facts over the announcements and sent out inspiring quotes as well. An active member, Addi Fay stressed the importance of mental health awareness in our school community. “It’s important that students hear about mental health…knowing that you have a whole support system here (LCC) to help you is comforting for students on their own journeys,” she says.
PPA members were pleased with the outcome of this Start With Hello Week. It is definitely something that will continue year after year and hopefully the tradition of the Walk and Talk will carry on. “This week helped students make connections that they wouldn’t normally have made…and gives them an understanding that they matter and are cared about here at LCC,” says adult advisor Sue Janowski. Janowski expressed how this week was all studentled and how proud she is of the leaders that have stepped up. After a successful week, PPA members want to make it their mission to continue this energy throughout the rest of the school year. From my personal perspective, I was really touched by what was accomplished at the school. My biggest takeaway from this week was that students do want to connect with each other, sometimes they just need that little push to do so. I hope I was a good example of positive leadership, and this group continues to do great things!
Sue Janowski, Adult Supervisor
Shawnee High School
Class of 2024 Excels on AP Exams
The College Board recognized 21 of our students with Advanced Placement Scholar Awards* for demonstrating excellence on multiple exams.
DISTINCTION*
The DISTINCTION AWARD is received by earning scores of 3 or higher on 5 or more AP Exams with an average exam score of at least 3 50 on all exams taken
HONORS*
The HONORS AWARD is received by earning scores of 3 or higher on 4 or more AP Exams with an average exam score of at least 3.25 on all exams taken.
SCHOLAR*
The SCHOLAR AWARD is received by earning scores of 3 or higher on 3 or more AP Exams
In May of 2024, 88 students took 148 AP exams, with 94% of the exam scores being a 3, 4, or 5.
The following students earned the Seal of Biliteracy for their Spanish & English proficiency: Jackson Carpenter, Shashank Chanamolu, Rose Kottapalli, Andrew McKenzie, Salahuddin Mohammed, & Lena Parsley
Cale Adams DISTINCTION*
Mason Burgess HONORS*
Shashank Chanamolu DISTINCTION*
Kelly Cooper SCHOLAR*
Jenova DeBrosse DISTINCTION*
Kael Dodson SCHOLAR*
Hunter Drury SCHOLAR*
Painter Drury SCHOLAR*
Dean Dunlap DISTINCTION*
Ribka Eyob HONORS*
Emma Hartzler SCHOLAR*
Daniel Koh DISTINCTION*
Vanessa Latimer SCHOLAR*
Alex McGuire SCHOLAR* Andrew McKenzie DISTINCTION*
Perry Meredith SCHOLAR*
Salahuddin Mohammed DISTINCTION*
Lena Parsley DISTINCTION*
Olivia Shenouda HONORS*
Noah Swallow SCHOLAR*
Rose Kottapalli DISTINCTION*
SHAWNEE HIGH SCHOOL proudly recognizes the following 54 graduates for outstanding academic performances on the Advanced Placement Exams. These graduates earned a score of 3 or higher (on a scale of 5) on each of the Advanced Placement Exams listed below.
Cale Adams
Art History
Calculus AB Chemistry
English Lang
English Lit Spanish US History
Hunter Alston
Calculus AB
Physics 1
Mason Burgess
Art History
Calculus AB Physics 1 US History
Jackson Carpenter
Spanish US History
Shashank Chanamolu
Art History
Calculus AB Chemistry
English Lang
English Lit
Physics 1
Spanish US History
Carter Cleaves Art History
Chemistry
Kelly Cooper
Calculus AB
Chemistry
Physics 1
Jenova DeBrosse
Art History
Calculus AB
Chemistry
English Lang
English Lit
Physics 1
Physics 2
US History
Karina Delgado Chemistry
Kael Dodson
Calculus AB Physics 1 US History
Hunter Drury
Calculus AB Chemistry
English Lit
Painter Drury
Calculus AB Chemistry Physics 1
Dean Dunlap
Art History
Calculus AB Chemistry
English Lang English Lit Physics 1 US History
Madison Extine US History
Ribka Eyob
Calculus AB Chemistry Physics 1 US History
Grace Freiberger 2-D Art and Design
Carson Frost
Calculus AB
Emma Hahn
Spanish US History
Paige Harris Chemistry
Emma Hartzler
Chemistry
English Lit US History
Jesse Hensley Chemistry
Joshua Hinojos Chemistry
Kaylin Huber Art History
Evan Jackson Art History Chemistry
Zachary Jordan US History
Daniel Koh
Art History
Calculus AB Chemistry
English Lang
English Lit Spanish US History
Rose Kottapalli
Art History
Calculus AB Chemistry
English Lang
English Lit Physics 1 Spanish US History
Cohen Lampton Chemistry
Vanessa Latimer
Art History
English Lit Spanish
Samantha Lauck Art History
Ethan Lewis Chemistry Physics 1
Alex McGuire
Calculus AB Chemistry Physics 1
Andrew McKenzie
Art History
Calculus AB Chemistry
English Lang
English Lit Spanish Statistics US History
Perry Meredith
Calculus AB Chemistry Physics 1
Salahuddin Mohammed Calculus AB Chemistry
English Lang
English Lit Physics 1
Spanish US History
Mia Therese Molina
Art History US History
Gracie Nickolson
Art History US History
Adebowale Olujimi Chemistry
Ethan Parlapiano Chemistry US History
Lena Parsley
Art History Chemistry
English Lang
English Lit
Spanish US History
Christian Powell Chemistry
Olivia Shenouda Calculus AB Chemistry
English Lang
English Lit
Music Theory Spanish US History
Kaiden Smith
English Lang English Lit
Riley Smith Art History Spanish
Raquel Stallone US History
Adelay Stover Art History US History
Noah Swallow
Art History Calculus AB Chemistry
Amelia Vega-Ortiz Chemistry
Lily Vondrell US History
Chloe Whetstone Spanish
Jayna Zeltner
Art History Chemistry
Precious Pets
Fostered Fidos
by Georgie Damschroder
Though many of us want to help animals in shelters, sometimes adoption is just too big of a commitment. After all, feeding and caring for a pet for years can certainly be a daunting task. Fortunately, however, there are other, less demanding ways to help a dog or a cat in need. Pet fostering is when a person temporarily houses and cares for an animal up for adoption until a forever home can be found. This practice is extremely beneficial for shelter pets, as they can experience life in a house surrounded by people and other animals and learn to be more comfortable in a home environment. Fostering animals also helps free up space in shelters and allows them to take in more critters in need. Though thousands of people foster pets, there is still a massive need for more willing to foster, so now is the perfect time to take part in this rewarding practice.
One local family has been stepping up to help dogs in need for years. The Cox family has fostered many pups, and currently has four dogs in their family: Mae, a ten-year-old Parsons Jack Russel, Winnie, a fourteen-year-old puggle, Tinker-
bell, a ten-year-old chihuahua-pug, and Mary, a four-yearold chihuahua. Mae, Winnie, and Tink all started out as foster pets in the Cox home, but eventually ended up as “foster fails,” meaning the Coxes fell in love and adopted the pups for themselves! Though Mary is still currently a foster dog, she seems to be going down the same path as her sisters, and will likely be adopted by the Coxes soon. Mae was welcomed home after being dumped at the dog warden’s office, exhausted and covered in mange. Mother Stephanie Cox offered to take care of the poor pooch, and after Mae was in good health again, she was adopted by the Coxes. Now, you could hardly tell that the happy and spunky Mae was once a sick and scared pup! She is extremely loving to everyone in the family, and always enjoys cuddling up in blankets around the house.
Similar to Mae, Winnie was found as a sickly stray and fostered by the Coxes. Her snuggly yet mischievous personality made her fit right in with the pack, and the Coxes quickly realized that this pup was meant to be part of their family. Winnie is the troublemaker of the family, and can always be counted on to get herself in a pickle! She once managed to get herself tangled in the blinds, and was found by her horrified family hanging from her foot! A hungry pup, Winnie has also gotten into lots of food over the years, including a pack of dark chocolate and an entire bag of dog food!
Winnie
Tink...in pink
Stephanie Cox, Founder of Happy Tails
Tinkerbell, nicknamed Tink, was brought to the shelter after she was thrown over the fence of a family that didn’t know her. Like her sisters, she started out as a foster at the Coxes’ house, but she quickly formed an inseparable bond with daughter Carlie, and the family knew that Tink had found her forever home! Tink is the drama queen of the family, and will let everyone know if she disapproves of what’s happening! She has mastered the art of turning up her nose and rolling her eyes whenever something doesn’t go her way, and will absolutely refuse to do anything she doesn’t want to do!
Mary Puppins is the newest addition to the Cox pack. She was rescued from a hoarding situation, and has quickly become a loved member of the family. Though her manners still need a little work, Mary is adjusting well to life with the Coxes, and is always helpful when keeping the other dogs in line!
ing a pumpkin roll or becoming a foster, visit their Facebook page, Happy Tails Pup Partners, and send them a message.
The Coxes and their pups live on Wildbrook Lane, where they enjoy the quiet of their neighborhood and their gorgeous view of the woods, where they often catch a glimpse of wild deer and turkeys!
Father Joey works at Cenovus as a Senior Operations Manager, while Stephanie keeps busy running Happy Tails. Their twelve year old daughter Carlie is in seventh grade at Shawnee Middle School, where she is a dedicated member of the volleyball team and choir. Following in her mother’s footsteps, Carlie also loves to volunteer at the Ohio SPCA in her free time. The Cox family is never short of puppy love, and will continue to rescue and care for every lucky pooch that stumbles into their lives!
A big part of the Coxes’ love and passion for fostering dogs comes from Stephanie’s nonprofit, Happy Tails. Happy Tails works to help shelter pets in need by offering training and medical assistance to pets and pulling them from kill shelters and other dangerous situations. The nonprofit is always looking for new fosters to help out, and will even cover all supplies the pet needs while it is in the foster home. This month, Happy Tails is also doing their annual pumpkin roll fundraiser, in which delicious pumpkin rolls made from scratch are sold for Thanksgiving, with all proceeds going to dogs and cats in need! If you are interested in purchas-
If you have any questions about Happy Tails or how to help out, feel free to email them at happytailsrescue@ hotmail.com.
Mae
Stephanie with dogs
Tink
Stephanie & Carlie Cox
Mary
Secret Recipe Pumpkin Pie
from the kitchen of Tess and Dr. Bryan Luna, Shawnee
by Janine Douglass
The holidays are that wonderful time when families and friends come together to celebrate their blessings from throughout the year. And an absolute must is bringing out those traditional recipes reflecting all the love and joy of this festive season, especially in baking. Tess Luna’s crucial culinary custom is her mother, Norma’s pumpkin pie.
Growing up in the Missouri Ozark Bootheel area, her family valued their recipes handed down through generations, and guarded them closely. Over the years, Tess has made this pumpkin pie for several friends in this area for their late year celebrations and has received positive feedback, along with continued requests for repeats and specifics. She feels now after many decades of keeping this treasure a secret, she would love to share it with their extended community that has been so good to Tess and her husband, Bryan.
The couple moved to the Shawnee area in 1996, both of them being in the dental profession: Bryan, an oral surgeon and Tess, a dental hygienist. They have made many friends here, enjoy Ohio’s changing seasonal scenery, and the small town feel of Lima. Tess and Bryan also have a home outside of Nashville, Tennessee, and enjoy spending their spare time there as well.
Ingredients:
• 1 can 15 oz. Libby 100% pure pumpkin (or actual pumpkin meat)
• 1 can 12 fl. oz. Carnation Evaporated Milk (lowfat option also works well in this recipe)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (grated whole nutmeg really makes a difference)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 homemade deep dish pie crust, or for convenience purposes, you can use Marie Callender’s deep dish pie crust.
Directions:
Mix dry ingredients in small bowl. Beat eggs in large bowl, stir in pumpkin, add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mix. Gradually stir in evaporated milk, then place in saucepan over low heat till warm. Add 1 tablespoon of molasses to mixture in saucepan while warming. Pour into pie shell, sprinkle light coating of nutmeg over the top. Bake in 425 degree oven for 15 minutes, reduce temperature to 350 degrees and bake 30-40 minutes or until knife comes out clean. Cool on wire rack for 2 hours.
Serve with your favorite whipped crème or streusel topping.
Tess’s grandparents actually had a restaurant called the Silver Front in Doniphan, Missouri, just 10 miles from Arkansas, known for its hamburgers, fries, cobblers and pies. So as you enjoy your own Thanksgiving feast topped off with this treat, you may be starting your own holiday history to pass down, and pass around the table each year!
A Centarian Celebration at Gethsemani Cemetery
by Peggy Gallagher Hinders
Centenarians are considered to be the Greatest Generation, born between 1901 and 1927. There are currently fewer than 4 million Americans in that generation. They have lived through the Great Depression, two World Wars, and seeing a man from Wapakoneta become the first person to walk on the moon.
Juanita Mae (Armentrout) Gallagher of Lima, OH, is one of them, turning 100 on November 22nd. Her family, consisting of 12 children, 24 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren, celebrated her upcoming birthday Labor Day weekend at Gethsemani Cemetery.
Why a birthday celebration at a cemetery? Gethsemani Cemetery has been a part of the Gallagher history since 1970, when Juanita’s husband, Robert (Bob) 1923-2004, took over the care and supervision of the grounds. All Gallagher generations have come to know and enjoy that history.
Juanita’s 12 children, 10 boys and 2 girls, cherish the role model their mom has provided in navigating the largely uncharted territory of living well into 100. The active centenarians are exceptional examples for defying the odds, breaking the mold
and showing us what is possible. Four of her children live in the Lima area, the remaining live throughout the country, from California to Florida. Her oldest five sons served in different branches of the military.
Moderation has always been key for Juanita in her “art of aging.” She still lives in her own home, likes tinkering in her yard, eats what she enjoys, has a sense of humor, personal courage, positive yet realistic attitude, loves new things, and has a strong spiritual belief. She has that can-do spirit we all pray for as we age. She is a true inspiration to her five generations that celebrate her 100 years.
In addition to raising her large family, she found time to volunteer at St. Vincent DePaul for many years as well as distributing Communion for patients at St. Rita’s and Memorial Hospital, and for the homebound.
Juanita and Bob were active parishioners of St. John’s and St Rose and had a circle of close friends for all these many years.
Juanita believes she is truly blessed: “How else can I explain why I’m still here?” she says. Born and raised in Lima, she was one of six children. All her family members, including both her parents, never lived to see 70. Juanita states, “It’s been a journey for me, one I’ve learned to take day by day and do the best I can. You learn to accept the losses and
changes that come with aging and not let it stop you. A lot of daily prayers and a strong faith in God helps me with the ups and downs of life.” She especially enjoys her family and spending quality time with each and everyone, regardless of the generation.
“My family keeps me going.” Finally, she states, “It helps to have had a great husband and father like Bob.” They were married 60 years.
Happy 100th Birthday, Juanita!
Bayliff & Son Funeral Home & Crematory: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
For over 80 years, Bayliff & Son Funeral Home & Cridersville Crematory has been a beacon of hope and support in Northwest Ohio, offering unparalleled funeral and cremation services with a deep sense of family commitment. As a familyowned and operated business, Bayliff & Son has consistently demonstrated an unwavering dedication to serving families during their most challenging times.
The story of Bayliff & Son begins with Walter Bayliff when he bought a half-interest in the Umbaugh Funeral Home at 223 West Main Street in 1938. In 1942 he purchased the remaining half-interest. In 1947 the funeral home moved to the present location at 311 West Main Street and has served families from there ever since. John Bayliff decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and became a licensed funeral director and embalmer.
John has been a visionary in the field of funeral service. His dedication to providing personalized and compassionate care led him to pioneer innovations in the industry. Recognizing every family has unique needs, John was the first in Northwest
Ohio to install an onsite crematory, reflecting his commitment to offering flexible and respectful services. His “10 Step Guarantee” ensures that every individual in their care receives the highest level of service, setting a standard of excellence that continues to define the Bayliff legacy.
John’s forward-thinking approach also led to the addition of a second crematory unit dedicated to pets, further expanding to Bayliff & Son Pet Crematory. Recognizing the deep bond between people and their pets, he introduced pet cremation services focused on promptness and quality. Understanding the need for closure, the Bayliff family ensures that a pet’s cremated remains are returned within 48 hours, offering comfort during a difficult time.
A Family Tradition of Service
The Bayliff legacy is carried on with equal dedication by his daughters, Valery Bayliff Fultz and Becky Bayliff. Along with John, they maintain the firm’s reputation as a leader in quality service, blending tradition with innovation. The vision for
Top row: Gary Fultz, Valery Bayliff Fultz (Licensed Funeral Director), John Bayliff (Licensed Funeral Director), Becky Bayliff (Licensed Funeral Director), Angela Knotts (Licensed Crematory Operator) / Bottom row: Tyla, Darius, Brooklyn
Bayliff & Son is symbolized by the lighthouse logo, representing the guidance and support they offer families navigating the difficult journey of loss. Just as a lighthouse provides a guiding light, the Bayliff family offers a beacon of hope and comfort.
Having worked closely together for three generations, family means much more than just the description of their business for the Bayliffs. It is the heart of their personal and professional lives. It is the core of their personal relationships. They vacation together; whether in the Smokey Mountains of Tennessee or Marblehead Lighthouse (which served as the model for the lighthouse logo), it becomes a family event of shared experiences.
This strong family bond is a driving force behind the firm’s enduring success and the commitment of each new generation to the business. Valery’s daughter, Angela Knotts, meets with families who have lost their beloved pets and is a licensed crematory operator.
Angela is currently working towards obtaining her funeral director’s license, positioning her to become the fourth generation of licensed funeral directors at Bayliff & Son.
The Personal Touch
Bayliff & Son is dedicated to celebrating life in all its richness. They believe every service should reflect the unique personality and passions of the individual being honored. From showcasing a quilting instructor’s handiwork by featuring samples of her quilts and her quilting frame to honoring a gentleman’s unique style of wearing red socks (the Bayliff staff donned red socks as well, lifting their pants legs in tribute when the family arrived and departed).
Everyone shares grief at the passing of a friend or relative but personalizing the service with personal effects focuses the attention on what matters most: the life that was lived.
Funeral Pre-Arrangement for Peace of Mind
Understanding the importance of planning ahead, Bayliff & Son offers comprehensive pre-arrangement services. This option provides peace of mind by allowing individuals to plan their funeral in advance, ensuring their wishes are met and easing the burden on their families. The pre-arrangement services can be financed through specialized insurance policies or a trust. When families choose Bayliff & Son for pre-arrangement, they receive the professional service and personal touch that define the Bayliff family’s commitment.
Commitment to Excellence
Bayliff & Son has even gained national prominence within the funeral profession as recipients of the Pursuit of Excel-
lence awarded by the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA). This award has been recognizing excellence in funeral firms for over 40 years. Bayliff & Son has received this award for ten years. A select committee evaluates each participating firm on a variety of criteria including:
• Proficiency in key areas of funeral service, including compliance with state and federal regulations
• Staff participation in ongoing education and professional development
• Offering outstanding programs and resources to bereaved families and maintaining an active level of involvement in the community
• Active participation in and service to the funeral service profession
• Adherence to a Pledge of Ethical Practices.
Having earned their 10th Pursuit of Excellence Award, Bayliff & Son was inducted into the NFDA “Hall of Excellence” in 2024. This honor is reserved for those funeral homes that demonstrate a consistent commitment to professional and ethical standards.
Bayliff & Son Funeral Home stands out for its creative services, integrity, value, and superior facilities. Their dedication to providing memorable experiences through caring professionalism and a commitment to excellence sets them apart. For over 80 years, the Bayliff family has been a trusted guide for families in Northwest Ohio, offering support, compassion, and innovative solutions during life’s most challenging times.
www.bayliffandson.com
The Algebra of Wealth
A Simple Formula for Financial Security
A Book Review by
I just finished a book that I will be gifting all three of my boys (ages 15-25) AND it’s my new #1 recommendation in the realm of money: The Algebra of Wealth: A Simple Formula for Financial Security by Scott Galloway.
Before we dive into the book, let’s look at some quick stats about money and retirement in the United States.
● 40% of Americans do not have any form of retirement account
● 1 in 4 adults have no retirement savings at all
● The average household entering retirement is expected to have only 55% of the income needed to maintain their pre-retirement standard of living
● The average retirement age is 63
● The average American life expectancy is 76
The future’s so bright, you gotta wear shades, right?
The Algebra of Wealth is a guide for optimizing your life for wealth and success that anyone can follow.
Who is the book for?
Anyone looking for financial security. More specifically, it’s a guidebook for those in their late teens/early twenties for how to live, work, and save.
The book is broken into four main chapters: Stoicism, Time, Focus, and Diversification.
Marc Bowker
Stoicism, Focus, & Time lay the foundation and are easy to digest for anyone, regardless of financial know how. In fact, they have very little to do with money at all.
Stoicism
The chapter on stoicism is about developing self-mastery and living a good life.
Some of the takeaways from this chapter:
Match your actions to your intentions. When it comes to living, do what you say you will do. If you tell yourself that you’re going to save $100 per month, then save $100 per month. If you say you’re going to only eat out once per week, then only eat out once per week.
By following the practices in this chapter, you will learn to trust yourself.
Seek out guardrails and advice. Find friends that will keep you grounded and offer their perspectives.
Invest in your partnership. “The most important decision you can make is to partner with someone and go through life as a team, and your partner is the most important relationship you’ll have.” Falling in love is easy. Standing in love takes work.
I am not a finance guy. But, I’ve made some good decisions when it comes to business and retirement. Many of these decisions were made out of fear thanks to growing up in a family that lived beyond their means - sorry mom & dad.
But I didn’t make these decisions alone. My spouse and I have been on the same page more often than not, during the course of our 28+ year marriage. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have a partner that you’re in sync with when it comes to money.
Focus
The chapter on focus is about finding, (and following), your talent - not your passion - when it comes to work.
Accept the necessity of hard work. You’re not going to love every job. But you’ll acquire skills and knowledge that will help you down the road.
Try new things, take chances, and don’t expect to achieve great success right away. “Most overnight success stories are the product of years of hard work.”
It’s crazy that we expect 18-year-olds to know what they want to do for the rest of their lives when they graduate from high school. Few adults have it figured out at 25, 30 or even 50.
I started college as a Psychology major because I liked helping people with their problems. What I didn’t like was the biology requirements. So I changed my major to History in my second semester.
On top of that, I had five different jobs in my 20s before I started my own business at 30.
But while I kept trying new things, my wife & I kept putting money into our kids’ college savings accounts (529) and our retirement accounts.
Get to a city, go to the office. “Your twenties and thirties are for learning the way of work, for pushing yourself, for expanding your network and your knowledge of the world. That means being around other people.”
Time
“The past is a memory, immutable. The future, a dream. What you have control over, and the opportunity to be present in, is the now. Dwelling on the past or believing the future will unfold positively without action and discipline in the present is a road to regret about what you didn’t do, and can’t fix, in the immutable past.”
The chapter on Time is where Galloway starts to pull back the curtain on how to save money and retire comfortably. He gives the example of investing $1000 per month for ten years (age 25-35) at a rate of 8%. At 65, you would have $2.5 million dollars! But if you start at 45, you’d only have $500,000.
This is why it’s so important for those just entering the workforce to start investing right away. Can’t swing $1000 per month? How about $50 or $100? The important thing is to start and to be consistent.
Marc Bowker is a husband, father of three, and owner of Alter Ego Comics in downtown Lima. He is also a Heroic Performance Coach, workshop instructor, and investor. Follow him on Instagram@marcbowker or LinkedIn for more personal development tools.
There’s so much gold in the chapter on Time that it’s worth the price of the book.
Diversification
When he comes to the chapter on Diversification, Galloway states:
“If you work in finance, much of this chapter may be familiar, even rudimentary. Read or skim at your discretion…If you are new to finance, it may feel overwhelming - it’s a lot of information.”
The chapter explains diversification, talks about risk & return, fees, taxes, and the downside of day-trading as a hobby. This is A LOT for the average person to process, and is why most of us rely on financial advisors to guide us.
A good financial advisor will help you figure out your investment goals and your risk tolerance (usually higher when we’re young and more conservative as we get into our 50s).
And don’t be afraid to take potential advisors for a “test drive” to see if they’re a good fit for you. Make sure that they can break down the complex world of investing into language that you feel comfortable with. They’re not going to take it personally if you jump to someone different.
One area that Galloway cautions most of us against is day trading (see above, Time). There is always going to be the next big thing in stocks or crypto-currency. Don’t be seduced by the do-it-yourself apps or the tales of your buddy making a killing in Dogecoin. In most cases, there is no “get rich quick” formula when it comes to wealth building.
Final Thoughts
The Algebra of Wealth should be taught in high school finance classes and given to every 18-year-old when they graduate. It truly is “a simple formula for financial security.” Give it as a gift this holiday season to someone starting their wealth-building journey.
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:
Welcome to the Shawnee Life Community!
Welcome the Vetters Family to Indianbrook! Rob and Nicole have been married for 16 years in September. They are both employed at the Honda Engine Plant in Anna, Ohio. The family is involved in their local church, Lima Baptist Temple and love spending time together! Rob and Nicole have three amazing kids. Rob’s son, Ryan, is 22 and is living on his own, but will be visiting some here and there. He graduated from Mount Vernon College with a history teaching degree and is now starting his teaching career in Trenton, Ohio. Their oldest daughter, Alayna, is 14 and started her freshman year at Shawnee High School this fall. She is currently in the marching band and loves to play basketball and softball. She also enjoys cooking and baking in her spare time. Their youngest daughter, Aja, is 12 and is in 7th grade at Shawnee Middle School. She is currently on the U13 Girls Shawnee Select soccer team, loves to play basketball and softball, and reads in her spare time. They also have a charcoal Labrador, Asher. He is still a puppy and is full of energy! The Vetters family loved taking walks in their old neighborhood and are excited that plenty of people in Indianbrook take walks as well!
Welcome Dennis and Ashley Gorban to Acorn Acres on Fraunfelter Road! In August 2024, the Gorbans moved from Columbus, Ohio, to Lima. Ashley has worked for a corporate pharmacy since 2013. She graduated summa cum laude from Franklin University in 2023, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Dennis is a professional tile installer and proud employee of Buckeye Floor & Ceiling, LLC. Dennis moved from his home city in Dnipro, Ukraine, where he holds a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, to the United States in 2013. Ashley and Dennis were married in downtown Columbus on December 10, 2018. They are both enjoying their beautiful new home in a more rural setting.
