Middlefield Post Christmas Section
Dec. 5, 2012
The Christmas of Unlocked Memories
By Ellie Behman
The tables were covered with memorabilia from the past. Sunlight caught the old crystal and sparks of dancing light caressed the dust laden treasures. The auction was about to begin and the family of Emily Baldwin sat in the front row, sadness filling their eyes as they realized their childhood, locked deep with the various articles, would soon be scattered around the country. Emily lived a long life and stayed in the same house that her parents had built. Try as they could, her daughters were unable to convince her to move in with one of them so a round-the-clock nurse was hired when she could no longer take care of herself. Emily’s wish was to remain in that house till the end and now that dream had come to pass. As the quick talking auctioneer glibly described item after item, memories shot through Amanda’s mind like an arrow, sharp and clear. She was the baby of the family and still held onto the memories that had special meaning for her. “What’ll ya give for this one of a kind crystal vase? Do I hear $10... 10... 10? Do I hear $9... 9... ? Going once, going twice. Sold for $9. Just like that, thought Amanda as she squirmed uncomfortably in her seat listening to the auctioneer. Her mom’s prized possessions would soon belong to strangers. She felt the tears stinging her eyes and wasn’t able to hold them back. Her sisters, Kate and Marilyn, had told her many times to ask their mom for some of the things she was most fond of but she couldn’t bring herself to do that. Her mother
became bedridden towards the end and it just didn’t feel right to Amanda to ask at such a time even though she knew her sweet mother would have given her anything she wanted. Watching the remaining pieces of her parents lives being sold on this bright sunny morning was painful for Amanda. She knew the money from the sale of the property and contents was to cover the mounting debts from recent years and there had been little or no choice, but that didn’t make the day any easier to take. As the auctioneer flitted from one thing to another, his voice a drone like a thousand bees in the back of her mind, Amanda drifted back to when her mom had received a beautiful crystal vase from her dad on their anniversary. She could picture Emily in the kitchen, preparing one of her famous family dinners and her dad coming up behind her with a smile turning up the corners of his mouth. “Good grief Jacob, don’t sneak up on a woman like that, especially a woman with a carving knife in her hand.” She whirled around, trying to act annoyed, but obviously pleased at the brightly wrapped package in dad’s hand. “Emily,” he announced in that strong proud voice of his. “Happy anniversary to the most beautiful girl in the world.” He bowed in an exaggerated fashion and handed her the gift. Tears glistened in Emily’s eyes as she lifted the delicate crystal vase from its box. “Oh Jake, something for my wildflowers. How thoughtful.” She gave him a little kiss on the cheek and dad smiled broadly
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as if he had just handed her the world. They whirled around the kitchen floor like two love starved teenagers until Emily playfully pushed him away in mock protest, warning him that dancing would not get the dinner completed. Emily and Jacob had no problem showing their love for one another, no matter who was around. Emily also let Amanda know that someday she and her sisters would have some of these things to remind them of how much love was in that old farm house. Until now, Amanda had forgotten the crystal vase and the occasion for which it was given. Now it was too late. Emily and Jacob had tried hard to keep their financial problems hidden from their daughters, but after Jacob died years earlier the truth came out. Their dad had re-mortgaged the old farm house when Emily became ill and the hospital expenses grew to mammoth proportions. Jacob took on odd jobs whenever he was not busy tending to the animals and garden, but when his beloved Emily became ill, he lost all interest and stayed by her side. The girls had always feared that their mother could pass away at any minute, but they were totally unprepared when Jacob died quietly and unexpectedly in his sleep one very cold night. He lay on a cot next to Emily’s bed, his hand in hers and a look of peace on his face. He had always said that he would not want to live in a world without Emily and his daughters knew this was a prayer of his that had been silently answered. Emily lived on another few years and now Amanda, Continued on page 2
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{ merry christmas and happy new year } The Christmas of Unlocked Memories
Continued from page 1
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2 { Middlefield Post }
Dec. 5, 2012
along with her sisters, had the burden of paying off the debts. Kate and Marilyn were also saddened by the decision to auction everything off, but they had no choice. Neither of them had the finances to hang on. Amanda knew this in her own heart but she still held onto the hope that there would be a less painful solution. She didn’t even share with her sisters the letter she had sent to Aunt Hattie right after Emily’s death. She had outright asked for a loan to cover expenses but there had been no answer. Kate and Marilyn would have been embarrassed that Amanda would do such a bold thing. She just knew they would have accused her of begging and that was definitely against the Baldwin way. It was just as well that they didn’t know. The loud, rambling voice of the auctioneer invaded Amanda’s thoughts as she watched him hold up a Santa figure that had once graced the family tree.“ What’ll ya give for this antique Santa? Do I hear $5...5....5? Do I hear $3.50... How about $2?” he shouted somewhat exasperated. He was beginning to give the impression that he was less than pleased by the crowd’s enthusiasm. Without thinking, Amanda jumped up and shouted, “Two dollars.” Although puzzled, the auctioneer called $2 once, twice... sold for $2. Amanda held the old tattered Santa in her hands and caught the confused looks on her sisters’ faces. She could barely speak past the lump in her throat. “Dad gave me this Santa on my fifth birthday. I haven’t seen it in years. I thought mom had thrown it out. I’d like to pass it down to my children,” she whispered softly amid uncontrollable tears. Amanda felt herself drowning in a sea of emotions. She was feeling more attachment
to the property and everything in it than ever before. She and her husband had spent many nights trying to come up with an answer. They were raising two small children themselves and had little money to spare, let alone to take over the farm. Amanda’s only hope, Aunt Hattie, seemed to be shattered since she hadn’t heard from her. She had tactfully asked for a temporary loan so that the farm would remain in the family. She knew Aunt Hattie’s health had been failing recently since she had been unable to travel to Emily’s funeral. Possibly Hattie’s son Andy and the rest of the family objected to her request at such a worrisome time for them. It was a long shot, but since there was no reply Amanda lost her one shred of hope. Now, sitting on the stiff hard bench outside the barn, her childhood memories came rushing back as she held onto the tattered Santa. She could almost hear her dad excitedly calling to her. “Mandy, Mandy, come here. I want to give you something.” “What is it, Daddy?” She ran toward her dad and found him hiding something behind his back. Smiling warmly he handed her the Santa, clean and new. “Your birthday is so close to Christmas honey that I wanted you to have this now to hang on the tree in a special place.” “Oh Daddy, it’s the most beautiful gift I ever got. I love you Daddy.” Even as young as Amanda had been, she knew times were tough because most of her clothes and even toys were hand-me-downs from her sisters. Dad must have gone without to be able to buy her this special gift. On and on pieces of the past were held up before the crowded rows of buyers and with each passing moment Amanda became more distressed. While most of the contents Continued on page 4
{ merry christmas and happy new year } By Joe Novak
Christmas Shopping
I am going to cut and paste last year’s article into this year’s article about buying local and buying American. I will try to add some new ideas along with the old, just to prove I am not totally lazy. Instead of supporting a Chinese state run factory, why not support your local economy and give gifts that people can actually use. We all get our hair cut so why not give gift cards to your local barber or beauty shop. My barber no longer charges me for haircuts; he charges a finder fee since there are fewer hairs to cut as I age. How about a gift of gutter cleaning, lawn cutting or spring yard clean up. Everyone has a golfer in the family that would love a couple rounds at the local course. Here is a “hot” idea; how about a cord of wood for someone who enjoys their fireplace or heats with wood. How about a car detailing, car wash or oil change certificate for the friend whose car needs some TLC? How about a gym membership for that friend or relative who needs a little encouragement to get in shape? I bet your mother or wife would like the services of a cleaning lady, or your dad
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may like his driveway sealed or plowed for the winter. Remember that this is all about helping the local hometown neighbor that may be counting on this Christmas season to pull them through a critical time in their business. Don’t forget the waitress or barber who could use a nice gratuity for Christmas and why not go a little further and tip your favorite cashier or other service worker; the garbage man, the mail carrier, the vet’s assistant and the girl who cleans the stalls at the place you board your horse. I bet she works their because she loves horses not for the meager pay. Here is a novel idea. Along with a gift card or gratuity for your service worker, write them a note of appreciation, it could mean more than the enclosed gift. Don’t leave a scripture verse without leaving a nice gratuity with it. Sharing the fact that Christmas is about Christ and about giving is, however, appropriate, so set an example. For those kids out there that don’t have much money, consider making a coupon book for your parents with various tasks that you will do when a coupon is redeemed. A car wash or wax, a floor scrubbing or babysitting a younger sibling. I am sure you can think of a dozen things that would help and please your parent and cost you very little. I wish all of you a great and blessed holiday season.
Briar Hill Health Care Residence
Invites all seniors to join us for Wednesday, December 12th from 9:00–11:00am
Entertainment with Ron Sluga
Our area has many families in need. This holiday season Fitness Plus and its staff would like, with your help, to make a difference. We are planning a canned food drive for the Food Cupboard at the United Methodist Church in Middlefield. The Food Cupboard is a subsidiary of the Cleveland Food Bank and feeds about 130 local families per month. They are in need of canned food (vegetables and fruit), soup, boxed pasta, peanut butter, tuna fish and other non-perishable items. Fitness Plus would not only like to help those in need - we also want to help those who give, with the gift of fitness. Bring your food items this December to Fitness Plus at 15980 Valplast St. and for every can of food you bring we will give you a $2 gift certificate to Fitness Plus up to $50. Not only can you help this holiday season but you can help yourself lose weight, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, improve muscle tone and strength. Please bring your food items in to help those in need this holiday season. For information call 440-632-1212 or visit www. fitnessplusonline.com. Thank you all and merry Christmas.
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NEW YEAR’S EVE Dance
Parkman Community House (16295 St. Rt. 422, east of St. Rt. 528) Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Heavy Hors D’oeuvres Buffet at 8:00 p.m. DJ - JOCKEY JOE will be playing all your favorite tunes from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. (Check them out on Facebook) $20 per person – B.Y.O.B. (Wash provided) For reservations call Sandy (440) 548-5740 or Denise (440) 548-2939 Reserve Your Seat Today - Tickets Are Limited!
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Dec. 5, 2012 { Middlefield Post}
3
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4 { Middlefield Post }
Dec. 5, 2012
The Christmas of Unlocked Memories
Continued from page 2
of the barn were dad’s tools, pitted and rusty, the avid crowd saw them as priceless antiques and the bidding picked up speed. Amanda mused how one person could see priceless antiques and another saw only memories. She could close her eyes and see dad swinging that heavy axe while he tirelessly split logs for the wood stove. The same strong arms that held Emily ever so gently as they danced in the kitchen. The old weathered saw was held up next. Dad had used it hundreds of times while building shelves for Emily’s canned goods. There were dozens of signs of dad’s woodworking talent everywhere, the small doll house, the swing that still hung from the old oak tree and so much more. Amanda had seen enough. She jumped to her feet, shouting “Stop. Please stop.” A hush fell over the crowd and her sisters ran to her, wondering what had happened. “I don’t want the sale to continue,” she cried. “Please don’t get rid of any more things today. I’ll figure something out.” Kate and Marilyn, realizing this was a highly emotional moment for Amanda, spoke to the auctioneer and convinced him to halt the bidding for now and continue in a few days. Many contents still remained as well as some livestock, home and land. The auctioneer agreed to pick up where he left off in two days and made the announcement to the crowd. “Amanda, I know how attached you have become to the old house and the things mom and dad had, but it’s time to move on. We have no other choice and mom and dad would have wanted it this way.” Kate was trying to be extra patient, but the more she tried to change Amanda’s mind, the more adamant she became. “Kate, I know we have a contract with the auctioneer and I realize you are anxious to get back home to your families, but all I’m asking for is one more chance to come up with an alternate solution.” Amanda made her point clear even though she didn’t have one new idea of how to raise the money. Her sisters nodded in agreement, if only to give Amanda more time to sort things out. As Amanda walked slowly toward her small rented home down the road, she was greeted by her husband Martin. “How did it go, Hon? Was it very hard for you and your sisters to let go?” Martin’s gentle concern opened the dam of tears. “Oh Martin, it just felt awful watching bits and pieces of my past go to strangers. I couldn’t bear to watch any more so I stopped the auction until I could come up with another answer”. “Come on Amanda, sometimes we have to let go of the past and move forward. We’ve
gone over this before and dragging it out won’t make it any easier for your sisters either. I know how painful this must be for you but let’s face it, none of us have the finances to pull that old homestead out of hock.” Martin placed his arm around Amanda’s waist and let her cry her heart out as they walked into the house. “Oh, by the way, Hon, there’s a letter for you from your cousin Andy. It’s on the table in the hall. Wonder why he’s writing after all this time. Maybe he and his family are planning to come down for a visit. That should cheer you up. I know you two were really close growing up and he spent many vacations at the farm.” Martin’s words were touching and Amanda felt bad that she didn’t even tell him that she wrote to Andy’s mom, Aunt Hattie. Her cheeks were burning with shame as she tore open the envelope. With trembling fingers, she pulled out the letter and began to read. “Hi Cuz. I am sorry I didn’t write sooner but mom had fallen about a month ago and broke her hip. We have been too busy to do much else but take care of her and make sure she doesn’t try to sneak out of bed and try to walk around. As you know, she is one tough cookie and has a hard time taking orders from anyone. This morning she told me I better get her paper and pen so that she could write you. She has been concerned about your dilemma and has sent the following message for you. I sure hope her answer has come in time to ease your mind. Besides, it would be nice for my kids to play in the yard that you and I enjoyed for so many summers. We would like to come down someday if that’s okay with you. Love, Andy.” Excitement welled up in Amanda’s heart. Andy’s letter could mean only one thing, an answer to her prayers. Tears fell on Aunt Hattie’s letter as she began to read. “My dearest Amanda. As you know from Andy’s letter, I have been on the mend lately. I was unable to travel to pay my last respects to my sweet sister Emily but I didn’t forget you or your request. I wanted to respond sooner but I have not been up to writing. Let me assure you that I have no intention of letting you down. Your mother and I spent many happy hours in that farm house. We played in the loft of the old barn many times and drank sparkling cold spring water from the well. That house holds so many precious memories, but until I received your letter I thought I was the only one who felt that way about mere wood and stone. I cannot think of a better family to continue to live in that house but you and Martin and your darling children. It shall come alive again with laughter and dancing just as it was when Emily and Jacob lived in it. They would be so happy to know that the rooms will be filled Continued on next page
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{ merry christmas and happy new year } Continued from previous page with love. I couldn’t bear to think of strangers living there and that’s why Andy and I have gone over my finances and find that I am able to lend you the money so that you can pay the bank off. Andy is in full agreement and only asks that you invite us all down once a year for a grand reunion just like the get-togethers we enjoyed so many times in the past. Andy will have the proper papers drawn up and will mail the check as soon as possible. (It would have been sooner if Andy hadn’t held my mail for me until I came home from the hospital). Love to all, Aunt Hattie.” Tears streamed down Amanda’s face and she could hardly choke the words out of her mouth. “M.....Martin, come quick. The farm is going to be ours. It’s staying in the family after all.” Although Martin was puzzled by her rambling, he began to grin as he read the letter. The past would soon be part of the present and Amanda’s dream would finally come true. She immediately called Kate and Marilyn and, although their reaction was total shock, they agreed to contact the auctioneer and offer a fee to him for his trouble. Then they could pack up and go home to their families. They decided that the son of Jacobs’ old pal, the family lawyer, would handle any legal work needed. Since Amanda’s sisters lived out of town and had no interest in relocating, they were comfortable with the fact that their sister would be living in the family home. It was a dream come true for Amanda. She could hardly believe that her future had turned around so drastically in such a short amount of time and her family would be living a comfortable farm life. “Everything would be perfect,” thought Amanda. “If only my sisters and family could visit for the holidays. I hope they can make it.” Preparing for Christmas was bittersweet. Amanda had invited Aunt Hattie and Andy, as well as his wife and three children. Although
she was excited to see them, the sadness of not sharing the holiday with her sisters clouded her happiness. As star shaped snowflakes melted on the windows, Amanda heard the cars come down the road, the frozen snow crunching beneath the wheels. The Christmas celebration was about to begin. As she opened the door, love filled her soul as never before. Kate, Marilyn and their families marched in, laden with packages and happy faces. Following them in was Aunt Hattie, feisty as ever, pounding her walker into the crisp snow as Andy carefully held her arm. One by one the family filed into the living room. There was much to talk about and everyone tried to do it at once. Amanda bustled around the kitchen, basting the turkey, checking the rolls and heating the casseroles that were handed to her by her sisters. She felt as if her heart would burst with so much happiness inside. She felt whole again. The tree was decorated with gingerbread men and strings of popcorn. It was a mirror image of Christmas past and one Amanda reveled in. Her beloved Santa hung in a place of honor at the very top of the tree and the lights sparkled like diamonds. Everyone was urging Amanda to open her presents and as she began, she found pieces of her past. Each sister had managed to track down some of the buyers at the auction and after explaining the sentiment attached to some of the articles, was able to persuade them to sell them back to the family. It was truly an act of love and an example of the real meaning of Christmas. As Amanda lifted the last gift out of its protective wrapping, her tears of joy reflected her gratefulness. It was her dear mother’s crystal vase that was given in love so many years ago. She glanced into the kitchen and could almost picture Emily and Jacob looking on, smiling at the legacy they left behind.
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DAY CHILD CARE
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Dec. 5, 2012 { Middlefield Post}
5
AJ & J ROLL-OFF CONTAINERS
LAMINATE FLOORING
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Auntie’s Antique Mall
www.auntiesantiquemall.com 15567 Main Market Parkman 440.548.5353
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ORTHOTICS COMPANY 16885 Kinsman Road Middlefield 440.632.5557
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15400 W. High St. Middlefield 440.632.1200
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LAKESIDE
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www.crossroadscountrycafe.com 15916 West High St. Middlefield 440.632.0191
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Area businesses They send their warmest thoughts
Stutzman Bros. Lumber
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13828 Bundysburg Rd. Middlefield 440.632.0093
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www.SitkoCounseling.com Jamie Sitko, M.Ed., PC-CR Hiram 330.687.5483
Middlefield Post
www.middlefieldpost.com 440.632.0782
TIM FRANK
Pine Valley Bolts & Industrial Surplus
Septic Tank Cleaning Co. www.timfrankseptic.com 440.636.5111 800.319.2847
5195 Kinsman Road Middlefield 440.693.4232
www.mccumbersbrady.com
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“Family Fun Center”
www.skylanebowling.com 8311 Windham St. Garrettsville 330.527.9999
MULLET’S HARNESS SHOP 16138 Newcomb Road Middlefield 440.632.1527
www.searshometownstores.com 15561 West High St. Middlefield 440.632.6363
Triple S Construction 14409 Grove Road Garrettsville 330.569.7032 330.569.4825
Middlefield Hometown Store
Middlefield Bank Plaza Corner of Routes 87 & 608 440.632.0300
Buyer of Standing Timber and Grade Saw Logs 440.272.5179
Southwind Drilling inc.
Specializing in Water Well Drilling Since 1988
Chuck White & Nancy White www.newburybizpark.com 440.632.1851
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Windsor
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SHEFFIELD Monuments
7418 North Wiswell Road Windsor 440.272.5157
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s thank you for your patronage this year. s and best wishes for a Happy New Year!
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By Christina Porter
Believing in Santa
I don’t remember how old I was when my aunt turned to me and said, “You don’t still believe in Santa, do you?” I know that I was young enough that my brother gasped and turned to stare at me with wide, horrified eyes and my mother was furious. But there was no need for shock or anger because I didn’t believe her anyway. I figured Santa simply gave up on those who didn’t believe in him and stole out of their lives but was alive and ever-present for all of us who did. And I believe that to this day. Who among us doesn’t recall being a child and struggling to stay awake long enough to see or hear Santa’s sleigh? Do you still listen for it? I do, even though I can’t explain why, and my husband says this gives him all the evidence he’ll ever need to have me committed one day. But without fail, a fantastic wave of enchantment rises up and hits me every Christmas Eve. I suddenly turn back into that snotty-nosed little kid who strains to hear sleigh bells as her mile-long Christmas list parades through her head. To lose one’s faith in Santa Claus is an awful thing. It’s losing one of the most glimmering parts of yourself and surrendering to an existence that doesn’t allow for magic, miracles or promise. It’s trading the possibility of all that can be for the mundane. I won’t ever lose my belief in Santa. My stocking might hang empty and my Christmas wish list may never grow any shorter, but every year I’ll receive a wonderful gift of hope while my heart beats quickly and my eyes shine with optimism as they stare up into a winter’s sky in search of Santa’s sleigh. Christmas isn’t just one day out of the year, it’s a season. To many, it’s only a season of shopping and baking and making yourself both crazy and broke. But for others, it’s a time to reflect and consider how to make a contribution to this world. Christmas is a feeling of goodness, a sensation of being connected to our fellow human beings, a flood of wonderful memories and a warming of the heart. It’s a time when we feel thankful for what we have and strive to share our good fortune with those less fortunate. The generosity of people donating to food banks, shelters and charities is overwhelming during the winter holidays, and if such rampant giving took place all year long, nobody would ever be hungry. This beautiful spirit of giving is Santa. He exists.
Holiday Trivia Quiz 1. Which two words will you find on gift tags? 2. In the song The Twelve Days of Christmas, ‘...my true love brought to me nine...’ what? 3. Traditionally, kids leave out snacks for Santa Claus. What are these snacks? 4. What is the most popular ornament used to place at the top of a Christmas tree? 5. In Charles Dickens’ novel A Christmas Carol, who was Scrooge’s dead business partner? 6. Which Saint is the character of Santa Claus based on? 7. What is the most popular holiday plant decoration in America? 8. What color of Christmas did Elvis Presley sing about? 9. What led the three wise men to the Baby Jesus? 10. How many sides does a snowflake have? Answers: (No peeking)
1. To and from, 2. Ladies dancing, 3. Milk and cookies, 4. Angel, 5. Jacob Marley, 6. Saint Nicholas, 7. Poinsettia, 8. Blue, 9. Six and 10. A star.
SCHEID’S ENTERPRISES OF MIDDLEFIELD 13680 Old State Road • Middlefield Twp. • On Rt. 608 2.5m North of Downtown Middlefield www.trucnrv.com • 440-632-6321
For our complete calendar of events, visit www.retroalsinternetcafe.com
Kiwanis Sock and Mitten Tree
The AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford
The East Geauga Kiwanis Club is sponsoring a Sock and Mitten tree at the Crossroads Country Cafe, 15916 W. High St. in Middlefield. Donations of socks, hats, mittens, scarves, gloves and underwear will be accepted until Dec. 16 to be distributed by Geauga County Jobs and Family Services. For information, visit www. eastgeaugakiwanis.com.
All promotions are for customers only, must be 18+ to participate in sweepstakes.
Now available through your local Hartford independent agent!
HOME MADE BAKED GOODS
baked FRESH in our woodburning ovens Now taking Christmas orders for pick up Dec. 24 Cookie Platters are our specialty! Offering 3 sizes of platters ~ Makes a delicious gift! Plus Candies • Cut-out Cookies • Fruit Cakes & Gift Baskets Ivan and Nora Bender, proprietors
Celebrating Our 7th Anniversary December 14th & 15th
10% off all Christmas orders drawings Placed During Anniversary discount Pricing
17075 Mumford Rd., Burton • 440-834-0776
Approx. 2.25 miles north of Rt 422, 1.25 miles south of Rt. 168 We Will be Closed the month of January 2013
Gift Baskets for Holiday Gift Giving Call for your free, no-obligation quote.
We wish you day a safe holi season!
Find out more about benefits like Accident Forgiveness‡, a Disappearing Deductible‡, Lifetime Renewability†, and our Competitive Rates! This auto insurance is designed exclusively for AARP members – and is now available through your local agent!
Kleve & Assoc. Insurance Agency, Inc 440-834-4432
‡ The AARP Automobile Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwritten by Hart ford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, One Hartford Plaza, Hartford CT 06155. In Washington, the Program is underwritten by Trumbull Insurance Company. AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states. This Program is provided by The Hartford, not AARP or its affiliates. The Hartford pays a royalty fee to AARP for the use of AARP’s intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Applicants are individually underwritten and some may not qualify. Specific features, credits and discounts may vary and may not be available in all states in accordance with state filings and applicable law. The premiums quoted by an authorized agent for an AARP program policy include the costs associated with the advice and counsel that your local agent provides. ‡ Some benefits, including First Accident Forgiveness and the Disappearing Deductible, are only available with the optional Advantage Plus package. A policy without these benefits is also available [Call for details.] To qualify for these two benefits, all drivers on the policy must have a clean record (no accidents or violations) for five consecutive years in most states. For the Disappearing Deductible, these five years must include a period of three consecutive years as a policyholder in the AARP Auto Insurance Program (commencing after the effective date of the policy issued through this offer). PA drivers are not eligible for the complete disappearance of the deductible, although it will be reduced to a minimum of $100. The First Accident Forgiveness benefit is not available in Delaware. † If you are age 50 or older, once you’re insured through this Program for at least 60 days, you cannot be refused renewal as long as applicable premiums are paid with due. Also, you and other customary drivers of your vehicles must retain valid licenses, remain physically and mentally capable of operating an automobile, have no convictions for driving while intoxicated and must not have obtained your policy through material misrepresentation. 107292 Rev
8 { Middlefield Post }
Personal and corporate gifts for the Holiday: n Gift Baskets Made to Order n Pre-Package Gift Baskets n Gift Boxes Shipped Worldwide HOLIDAY HOURS: Dec. 24 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For the Holiday Parties: Dec. 25 Closed Dec. 26 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. n Meat & Cheese Trays Dec. 31 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Dec. 5, 2012
Swiss Cheese Annie says, “Don’t forget your Holiday Gift Baskets!“
Tuesdays are Golden Buckeye Days
Jan. 1
Closed
15815 Nauvoo Rd., Middlefield (Corner of Rt. 608 & Nauvoo Rd) 440.632.5228 Ext. 6000 • 800-327-9477 Ext. 6000 www.middlefieldcheese.com • Open Mon-Sat 8:00-5:30
Amish Church Orders
Mon-Sat 8-5:30
{ merry christmas and happy new year } Countryside Home Bakery Celebrates Seventh Anniversary Countryside Home Bakery is pleased to announce their seventh anniversary celebration Dec. 14 and 15, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be drawings, free coffee and more. The bakery is a family owned business that opened in 2005 as a way to generate a little extra income, and grew into a self sustaining business through the hard work and traditional recipes used by the store’s bakers. By baking everything from scratch and using real butter Countryside Home Bakery provides the community a product that is readily available, yet does not lose the homemade, down to earth taste. Another distinctive feature of the bakery is its traditional wood burning oven that produces unique and delicious products. Stop in and taste the difference! At Countryside Home Bakery you will enjoy traditional, home-made breads, pies, cookies, and more all made from scratch. With Christmas just around the corner, the bakery offers Christmas cookies, gift baskets, delicious breads and specialty items like chocolate covered candies. Orders are now being taken for all of your Holiday baking needs. When you visit the Open house, place and pre-pay your order, you will receive a 10 percent discount. Countryside Home Bakery is located in Burton at 17075 Mumford Road. For questions or to place an order call 440-834-0776 (Note: only orders placed in person during the open house are eligible for a discount.)
More Than Just Flashlights By John Melaragno Neetlights has lots of great ideas for Christmas. We just got in a new stock of light up dog collars and leashes. These collars are made by Nite Ize and come in red and orange. They have an LED strip in them that can stay on steady or flash. With daylight being so short, this a great idea so you can see your dog in the yard or just a good thing to have while walking your dog at night. These would make great gifts for you and the pets of everyone you know. We also have many other Neet things by Nite Ize: light up K9 balls for the dog, LED marker bands that are great for early morning late evening walks, bicycle lights, personal security items, and of course, lots of flashlights. Stop in and see all the stocking stuffer ideas we have. Tell us you saw our add in the Middlefield Post and get a Free Key Chain light with purchase of $15 or more. Neetlights is located at 14533 N. Cheshire St., Burton. Call 440-218-7153.
Fast Delivery • Quality Materials • Competitive Prices
LAKESIDE
Residential & Commercial
SAND & GRAVEL
Since 1954 • 58 Years of Service
• Washed Sand & Gravel • Road & Driveway Gravel • Limestone Products
• Screened Topsoil • Fill Sand & Dirt • Landscape Boulders
3498 Frost Rd, Mantua • www.lakesidesandgravel.com
Custom orders WelCome!
Cornhole Games Team Colors & Many Others
Mastercard, Visa and Discover Accepted
330-274-2569
& A Gift Certificate Makes a Great Gift!
Picnic Tables: Octagon & Straight 5’ to 8’ • Arbors • Gliders • Adirondack Chairs & Benches Swings • 4 Sizes of Wishing Wells • Mini-Bridges • 6 - 16-Ft. Bridges • Screened Gazebos & More!
17071 Tavern Rd. (Rt. 168), Middlefield • 440-548-2657 Open Mon-Sat 8am-5pm • Closed Tues & Sun
Christmas Word Jumble
Unscramble the following jumbled lines of letters to find seasonal words.
1. ERDRINEE 2. CEDEBRME 3. ETSPNER 4. GCIOSNTK 5. GLSHIE 6. WANOMSN 7. ITAVYINT 8. TEHMHELBE 9. TOSTMILEE 10. DANCYNACE
A new shipment of guitars have arrived! Shop local ~ Shop early 15910 West High St. Middlefield (44062)
440-632-0678
www.roadhousemusic.org
Lessons • Sales • Rentals • Repairs Private Music Lessons for Guitar, Bass, Banjo, Drums, Violin, Voice and All Band Instruments
Layaway Now for Christmas
Answers: (No peeking)
1. Reindeer, 2. December, 3. Present, 4. Stocking, 5. Sleigh, 6. Snowman, 7. Nativity, 8.Bethlehem, 9.Mistletoe and 10. Candycane.
“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” ~ Calvin Coolidge
Happy Holidays from
Geauga County
Pleasant Hill Home “170 Years of Caring”
13211 Aquilla Rd., Chardon
440.279.2161 Assisted Living • Respite Care Available • RN on Staff Rates Based on Ability to Pay
Support provided by your tax dollars through The Geauga County Commissioners
Dec. 5, 2012 { Middlefield Post}
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{ merry christmas and happy new year } CountrySide Bicycling
BIKE REPAIRS • NEW & USED BIKES ACCESSORIES • OLD STYLE SCOOTERS TUBES • TIRES • ELECTRIC BIKES RECUMBENT BIKES
Authentic Amish Cooking
Bakery Fresh Pies • Breads • Apple Butter
GIft Shop Sale!
Christ ma Layaw s a Availa y ble!
Through Dec. 24 15% Off Gift Shop Items* 10% Off Quilts* *Food items not included
440-632-1939
Mon, Fri, Sat 7am - 8pm Tues, Wed, Thurs 11am - 8pm
14743 N. State St. Middlefield 44062
8663 Cox Road • Windsor 440-487-5018 CountrySideBicycling.com
Attention RoofeRs & HomeowneRs! RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL A container can be delivered to your job site or home.
10-15-20 Yards AJ & J ROLL-OFF CONTAINERS
– estAte cleAnups –
CALL JIM - CELL: 440-336-0544 / HOME: 440-834-1282
Advantage.
That’s My
SeaSon
of
ENTERTAINING Cheese Platters Starting at
34.99
$
Holiday Bakery Deli Platters Items Starting at
Starting at
19.99
$
4. Call 440-632-1200 to place your orders $
79
State Liquor Agency Monday–Saturday 9:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Sunday 10:00a.m -10:00 p.m.
15400 W. High St. • Middlefield • 440.632.1200 Store Hours: Monday - Sunday 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. 10 { Middlefield Post }
Dec. 5, 2012
Sponsor a Family “Sponsor a Family” is a holiday program that provides food and gifts to low income families and seniors in Geauga County. For more than 40 years, Geauga County Job and Family Services has coordinated the Sponsor a Family Program during the holiday season. In 2011, 580 families, from every geographic location in the county, received help through this program. Over 1,240 children received toys and gifts, and 15,000 to 20,000 pounds of food was donated, sorted, packed and delivered. Sponsor a Family matches low income families who need assistance during the holidays with area churches, organizations, companies, families and individuals who would like to help. Families, foster children and seniors are referred to the program. The goal is to match as many families as possible with sponsors from the community. Those not matched with a designated sponsor will receive food, toys and gifts from the donations Job and Family Services receives. Sponsor a Family would not be possible without the generosity of community members. Area individuals, families, schools, businesses, organizations and churches collect food and toys to donate. Monetary donations are used to purchase meat, staples and other basic items. Sponsor a Family volunteers are essential. Last year, approximately 300 volunteers donated over 900 hours to sort and pack food and gift donations and deliver the gifts to the families. Toys will be collected at The Middlefield Banking Company in Middlefield (main branch), Huntington Banks in Middlefield, Chardon and Burton, and Geauga Savings Bank in Newbury. To make donations, volunteer time or for information contact Sara at 440-285-9141. Checks for monetary donations must be made payable to “Special Services” with “Sponsor a Family” in the memo portion of the check. Mail checks to P.O. Box 309, Chardon, OH 44024. New toys, coats and other donations are accepted at Geauga County Job and Family Services, 12480 Ravenwood Dr., Chardon.
Fill a Log Cabin for the Holidays The Burton Chamber of Commerce now has a way for you to bring their log cabin home or give it away, so you or your gift recipients can always enjoy this historic building. The log cabin serves as an information and resource center, and is the place where maple syrup is produced each spring, and maple candy is made all year round. The die cut cabins can be sold flat or filled. This beautiful gift box is patterned after the log cabin in Kentucky in which Abraham Lincoln was born. Your holiday gift purchases from the Burton Log Cabin can be packaged in this unique gift box designed exclusively for the Burton Chamber of Commerce. This gift box is available at the log cabin on the square in Burton through the holiday season. Variations of the holiday gift box will be available throughout the year and as always all of your unique purchases can be shipped worldwide. This is the perfect gift for regular visitors to the cabin, for those who have visited
Burton, and for those who have moved away but wax nostalgic for the sights and smells of the beloved historic building. The log cabin on Burton Town Square is the only place to purchase the replica. It is open through Dec. 23, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Stop in and enjoy picturesque Burton Village all decked out in its holiday finest. Visit the Chamber’s Web site,www. burtonchamberofcommerce.com. For orders, call 440-834-4204 or 800-526-5630.
“My idea of Christmas, whether oldfashioned or modern, is very simple: loving others. Come to think of it, why do we have to wait for Christmas to do that?” ~ Bob Hope
8009 State St., Garrettsville
For Complete, Friendly Service
GARRETTSVILL E HARDWARE FREE
Gift Wrapping
on all items purchased in our store Lots of Christmas Items Available
(In Garfield Plaza)
330.527.2037 Mon-Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-5
{ merry christmas and happy new year } A Little Christmas Pun If a reindeer lost its tail, where could he get a new one? At a retail store. Do reindeer go to public school? No, they’re elf taught. How long are an elf’s legs? Long enough to reach the ground. What did the Gingerbread Man put on his bed? A cookie sheet! What did Adam say the day before Christmas? It’s Christmas, Eve! What is green, covered with tinsel and says, “Ribbit, ribbit?” A mistle-toad. What do Christmas trees and bad knitters have in common? They both drop their needles. What do you call people who are afraid of Santa Claus? Claustrophobic. Why did they ask the turkey to join the band? He had the drum sticks. What is the best thing to put into a Christmas pie? Your teeth! What did the salt say to the pepper? Season’s Greetings. What did the bald man say when he got a comb for Christmas? Thanks, I’ll never part with it!
“What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace.” ~ Agnes M. Pahro
Garland & Lots of Christmas Items,
Toys, Bikes, Clothes and Furniture plus General Merchandise, Groceries, Medicine, Paper Products & More!!
Kurtz Salvage LLC 16777 Dead End Shedd (Off of Old State Rd.)
440.632.5623
Mon-Thurs 8-5 • Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-3
Help the Local Food Banks by Building a “TP Tree!” They spoke and we are answering ... our local food banks are not only in need of food items, they are also in great need of paper products such as toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissue and personal hygiene items. In answer to their call, we at the Geauga Credit Union want to see how big we can build a “TP Tree” using your donations. Please bring your paper product and personal hygiene donations to our Burton Office, 14499 N. Cheshire St., across from Berkshire High School. For more information call 440-834-4327.
Triple S ConSTruCTion • New Construction • Pole Barns • Replacement Windows • Decks • Basement Finish • Metal Roofs & Siding • New Roofs • New Siding • Reroofs 23 Yrs. Experience Quality Guaranteed • Re-siding
FREE ESTIMA TES!
Daniel J. Schmucker (330)569-7032 or call (330)569-4825 (Voice Mail) 14409 Grove Rd. • Garrettsville, OH 44231
Dec. 5, 2012 { Middlefield Post} 11