Vol. 6 No 16
Thinking of Mom
Moms always have lists …
May 13, 2015
Mom – The Homemaker’s Advice
Submitted by Ellen Hershberger, Sarah Miller, Barbara Detweiler
Thinking of mothers … my grandmother often boiled potatoes and then used that water to make the base for her delicious bread.
Cleaning Tip … for a nice clean shine, add several drops of lemon essential oil when you wash off furniture.
Tips for Spring Cleaning • Do one room at a time. • Start with drawers, cupboards and closets. • Next, wash the curtains and then wash off the walls, ceilings and windows. • Do the furniture and floor last. Then put everything back where it belongs and go on to the next room.
In 2014, the Huffington Post compiled a list of the pieces of Happy Cleaning! advice readers said their mothers gave them that they most value … or, at least, best remember. The following is from that list: . Be kind and love your brothers and sisters. Family is forever. . Who your friends are, that is who you are. . This too shall pass. . No matter who enters your life, never lose sight of who you are. . Never miss an opportunity to learn a new skill. . Do your duty even if there is no reward for it. . Think good thoughts.
Turn to page 7 for more Tinker’s Creek School
Here are a few bits of motherly advice our readers remember … . Look and listen for God’s will to become clearer to you. . See God in the beauty of His creation. . When there is need, give help before you are asked to. . Everyone has equal value in God’s eyes. . If it is worth doing, it is worth doing well. . Don’t take up the burden of unforgiveness. . Learn the lesson setbacks are meant to teach you. Artwork by Linda from Tinker’s Creek School
Next issue: PLAIN COUNTRY: Wednesday, June 10. Deadline: Friday, May 29. See details on page 2.
PLAIN PAGES (published in the Middlefield Post): Wednesday, May 27. Deadline: Friday, May 15.
Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015 Please submit all ads and letters for Plain Country and for Plain Pages by deadline dates listed below. Plain Country, P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062 or call 440-632-0782 or fax to 440-834-8933.
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Happy Birthday May 15 May 15 May 15 May 16 May 16 May 17 May 17 May 17 May 18 May 18 May 19 May 19 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 22 May 22 May 22 May 22
Jonathan Mullet (Al) (13) Mrs. Miriam Yutzy Wallace J. Miller (65) Mary R. Schlabach (14) Mrs. Albert Sylvia Miller (70) Cindy J. Yoder (14) Rose Edna Detweiler (20) Amanda M. Byler (13) Joseph Detweiler (8) Crist D. Yoder (44) Myron C. Hershberger (7) Mrs. (Ray) Sarah Hostetler (50) Marvin Kurtz (45) Marvin Kurtz Jr. (23) Allen A. U. Byler (46) Ivan Miller Jr. (48) Carol D. Slabaugh (11) Jesse R. Miller (3) Mrs. (Emanuel) Sara Hershberger(78)
May 23 May 23 May 24 May 25 May 25 May 26 May 27 May 28 May 29 May 30 May 30 May 30 June 2 June 3 June 6
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Published by: the Fontanelle group inc Editorial Coordinators: Jacquie Foote, Joe and Sarah Miller v Staff Writers: Katherine M. Byler, Barbara Ann Detweiler and Donnie Miller v Contributing Writers: William Bender, Ellen Hershberger, Rachel Miller, Linda Weaver and Susan Yoder Mailing Address: P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062 Phone: 440-632-0782 v 440-834-8900 v Fax: 440-834-8933 Published Monthly – Free of Charge
Nancy Bender (44) Andrew G. Bender (16) Mrs. Mervin Kathy Wengerd (64) Mrs. Mary Hershberger Joseph W. Byler Jr. (47) Melvin Ray Bender (11) Harvey W. Byler (60) Michael Yutzy (7) Sam L Miller (29) Ray E. Mast (67) Elizabeth (John) Byler (20) Mrs. (Gid) Margaret Hershberger (60) Steven R. Byler (37) Rachel D. Detweiler (13) Wayne C. Byler (43)
Raymond Miller (51) Mrs. (Dan) P. Esther Hostetler (66) Mrs. John Mat Miller (73) Marty H. Miller (45) Mrs. Steve Miriam Yoder (31) Nathan M. Miller (9) Jonathan L. Hershberger (15) Rachel R. Miller (12) Le Ann M. Miller (10) Mrs. (Dan) Martha Mast (57) Mrs. Crist Kathryn Yoder (42)
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Melvin J. Shetler, 77, of Mesopotamia, passed away peacefully April 26, 2015 at home. He was born in Middlefield on Jan. 21, 1938 to the late John L. and Mattie (Stutzman) Shetler. Melvin married Maurine Yoder Sept. 15, 1960. He was a member of the Old Order Amish Church. He will be missed by his loving wife of 55 years, Maurine; children, Melvin Ray (Linda) Shetler, Aaron (Lydia) Shetler, Lorena (Lester) Byler, Clara Mae (Alan) Mullet; 30 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; four step-brothers; two step-sisters; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Melvin is preceded in death by: his parents, three brothers; six sisters; and four step-brothers. Melvin’s final resting place is in Wilcox Road Cemetery in Mesopotamia. Online condolences may be sent to www.bestfunerals.com.
ISSUE(S) “Plain Pages” in the Post PLAIN COUNTRY “Plain Pages” in the Post PLAIN COUNTRY “Plain Pages” in the Post “PLAIN COUNTRY “Plain Pages” in the Post PLAIN COUNTRY “Plain Pages” in the Post “Plain Pages” in the Post PLAIN COUNTRY “Plain Pages” in the Post Thanksgiving “Plain Pages” in the Post Christmas Greetings
In This Issue ... Birthdays | Anniversaries..................................02 Bits and Pieces....................................................06 Books in Review.................................................11 Children’s Immunization Clinics...................02 Coffee Break with Sue......................................05 From Our Schools....................................... 07-10 Greetings from Garrettsville..........................03 Greeting from the Bookmobile....................11 Greetings from Plain Community................05 Hello from Amish Crossing Corner..............03 Hello from Huntsburg......................................05 Howdy from West Farmington.....................05 In Memoriam......................................................02 Katherine’s Korner.............................................04 Lines by Linda.....................................................03 Mom’s Diary.........................................................04 Middlefield Care Center..................................06 Parkman Pathways............................................06 Recipes............................................................12,13 Tell Me a Story....................................................11 Wanted..................................................................02
Children’s Immunization Clinics Geauga County General Health District hosts local children’s immunization clinics. Immunizations for children and adolescents are free of charge for all Geauga County residents regardless of income. For non-Geauga residents, there is a $5 fee per child, per visit.
MIDDLEFIELD CLINIC (cancelled when Cardinal Schools are closed) When: Wednesday, May 13 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Where: St. Lucy Mission, 16280 Kinsman Road (Route 87 east), Middlefield. When: Wednesday, May 20 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Where: St. Lucy Mission, 16280 Kinsman Road (Route 87 east), Middlefield. When: Thursday, May 21 from 3 to 6 p.m. Where: St. Lucy Mission, 16280 Kinsman Road (Route 87 east), Middlefield.
Emma J. Detweiler (nee Miller), 72, of Mesopotamia, passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness on April 30, 2015 at home surrounded by her family. She was born in Mesopotamia on Jan. 11, 1943 to the late Jonas A. and Sarah (Troyer) Miller. Emma married Melvin M. Detweiler Jr. April 18, 1963. She was a member of the Old Order Amish Church. She will be missed by: her loving husband of 52 years, Melvin; children, Marvin (Ada) Detweiler of KY; Robert (Katie) Detweiler of Middlefield, Dora (William) Bender of Middlefield, Paul (Mary Ann) Detweiler of Garrettsville; daughter-in-law, Arlene Sue (Amos) Wengerd of Middlefield; 27 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; three brothers; four sisters; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Emma is preceded in death by: her parents, son, Melvin Detweiler III; one brother; and two sisters. Emma’s final resting place is in Wilcox Road Cemetery in Mesopotamia. Online condolences may be sent to www.bestfunerals.com.
When: Where:
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TROY CLINIC
Wednesday, June 24 at 11:30 a.m. No clinic in May. Open every other month in even months. Troy Community Center, 1395D Main Market Rd. East of Route 700.
Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Lines by Linda
Hello from Amish Crossing Corner
By Linda Weaver
By Sarah Miller
May 1, 2015: Hello Everyone … It looks like the weather will be pleasant for the weekend, with warm temperatures. We’ve been looking forward to this all through the long winter … or at least I have! So many sad happenings over the past weekend and, of course, the accident last week that took the life of David C. Byler, 63, has been on our minds. His wife Martha and daughter Amanda still at home can be written to at 16775 Nauvoo Road, Middlefield, Ohio, 44062. Sunday morning, news was sent of the passing away of my cousin Maurine’s husband Melvin Shetler, 77. This was also a shock as he hadn’t been sick at all. We attended his funeral on Wednesday where over 600 people came to pay their last respects. His widow can be written to at 4829 Kinsman Rd., Middlefield, Ohio, 44062. Sunday afternoon, Daniel (Smoke) Bontrager, 70, was relieved of his many illnesses. He had plans to attend their Communion services, but the Lord had other plans for him. He leaves his wife Ina who can be written to at 18184 Madison Rd., Middlefield, Ohio, 44062. Our hearts
and sympathy go out to all these families, and may God be with them in their sorrow. Our children and grands gathered at son Bobs last Friday night for a delicious supper and April birthday celebration. Jake’s brother Eli and Kathryn Weaver were also invited, as they were our “secret friends”. Since then, he spent an overnight at the hospital for his arthritis and other aliments. They put him on antibiotics while he was there. John Troyer (brother-in-law) had a heart ablation at University Hospital a week ago. He also was there overnight. He has not been able to attend church for several months. A line of cheer would brighten him at 1634 Burton Windsor Rd., Middlefield, Ohio, 44062. Georgia Road School closed its doors for the summer on Wednesday May 29, with 3 graduates: James Miller (Amos and Ella), Martha Mae Miller (Bill and Betty) and Annie Slabaugh (Erwin and Betty Ann). A picnic is planned for Monday evening, May 4 … a much looked forward to event. Will close wishing you all God’s blessing till next time.
April 30, 2015: A little on the cool side again. Although we could use a good shower. Farmer Joe has sown oats and lots of produce is being planted. I’ve been working in my flowerbeds, getting ready to plant some flowers. Need to go up to son Perrys and get my flowers before they get all picked out. Thursday, April 30, sister Edna Byler and I went down to sister Fannie and Mel Yoder. She is coming along a little better from her hip surgery and is walking along with a walker. Three funerals within our community in the past week. Our sympathy to all the families. Schools are having their end of the year exams. Our school, Saw Mill Lane, had their last day on Wednesday, April 29. The picnic is to be on Friday evening, May 8. Hopefully it will warm up by then. David M. Yoder is still a patient at Cleveland University Hospital taking treatments for his cancer. We wish him better days. Weddings are in full swing. We have 4 invitations at the present … two on the same day, May 14. Our visitors Thursday evening and Friday, April 23-24 were daughter Betty and Melvin Byler from Mio, Mich. They got a ride with some friends who wanted to check out flooring at Sheoga Hardwoods. After having brunch at son Perry and Katie Ann’s, they left
Happy Anniversary
for home. The children and grandchildren spent Friday evening here visiting. Melvins also. They had supper at Melvin’s brother and sisters on Friday before coming back here. On Thursday evening, April 28, Joe and I spent a very enjoyable time at my sister Edna and Bill Byler on Nauvoo Road with a singing group. Snacks and coffee were served. Thanks, guys, for inviting us!! Our next blood drive will be here in our shop on Saturday, May 9. All are welcome to come and donate. We will be hosting a dinner for the Leadership Geauga Group here on Thursday, May 21. They want a chicken dinner. There will be between 26 and 30 people. The pancake breakfast held in our Window Shop on March 27 for Daniel Burkholder family was a huge success. There were over 1500 people here raising $40,000. The help was super! A crew worked the evening of Thursday making donuts. They made 6,000! One was served with each breakfast and the rest were sold by the dozen. More could have been sold! A big Thank You was wished by the family for the Amish and Non-Amish who helped in any way. With a community working together, much can be accomplished. We received word that Mrs. Melvin Emma Detweiler of North Girdle Rd. died on Thursday morning, April 30. The funeral is on Saturday, May 2. The family has our sympathy.
May 16 … Freeman & Martha Mullet (41yrs)
Memorial David RS Sharp Shop Day is sharpen-up’ Monday May 25
Spring, the time to ‘
Greetings from Garrettsville By Rachel Miller
everything!
April 23, 2015: It is now 6:30 in the evening and 33 degrees. That’s as high as it went. It was 30 degrees this morning and the ground was white with snow and it was still snowing, too! Snow was on the trees and daffodils and the tulips. Is this the last snow? I wonder. I was doing some cleaning today and, this afternoon, I helped Ivan load his trailer with bikes and bags of cans. He has a full load. Tomorrow, he has a taxi coming to
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take them to a place they take tin cans, etc. Ivan makes clothes racks out of the rims of bikes, so he buys old ones wherever he can and takes t he wheels off. Barbara is through working tonight cleaning offices. My sisters and brother were coming tonight for my birthday, but that’s off now as sister Sarah, (the Albert Detweiler’s), neighbor David C. Byler was instantly killed last night when he came out to the road from Troy Mill to walk home and was hit by a car, He was 63 years old. That makes 4 people from that church that died in several months’ time. A couple weeks ago, we had 10 or 12 turkeys come in our yard. One had his tail fan spread. They eat sunflowers under the feeder. We also put corncobs out on a tree stump and cracked corn and meal worms out. Lettuce is up, but it’s still too wet to plow the garden. I’m anxious to get peas, radish and onions out. Today, we saw a grosbeak at the feeder and a year ago the 23rd, I had my first humming bird. I put my feeders out with some seed in it and oranges for the orioles. I’m calling them to get it. Rhubarb is growing and soon will make pies, etc. Saturday is the big machinery sale at Marty Millers. The schools take turn having the breakfast and lunch sale. They work hard and do very well.
Katherine’s
Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Mom’s Diary By Barbara Ann Detweiler
Saturday, March 25: I’ve been feeling pretty good the last while. Maybe it’s the weather and knowing Spring is in the air. Sunday, March 29: We went to my brother Johns for supper. My parents, brother Stevens and sister Elizabeth and family were there also. Of course, they had ice cream and cake for my birthday which is April 1. There were only four candles on the cake! Monday, March 30: Betty and Norma are looking forward to the end of the school term. Tuesday, March 31: Katherine and I went out to visit school this afternoon. My Mom and a friend were there also. Wednesday, April 1: My birthday … they sure aren’t what they used to be. Laura had a dentist appointment, so I picked up an ice cream cake on the way home. We celebrated three birthdays. Thursday, April 2: Katherine’s 15th birthday. She thinks birthdays are wonderful. Betty had a dentist appointment and had a tooth extracted. We went over to brother Johns and watched the boiling process of making maple syrup. Friday, April 3: Everyone was home today because of Good Friday. Even the sun came out to join us. We all have Spring Fever. Saturday, April 4 – Monday, April 6: We’ve been having lots of rain. We’re anxious to have some nice weather and do some outdoor cleaning. Tuesday, April 7: Katherine and I, along with my Mom, went to my sister Elizabeth’s in Carroll County. I had enough time after I got home to freshen up and go to the parent/ teacher meeting at school. Wednesday, April 8: My parents are getting ready to go to Iowa to get help for Dad’s Scleroderma. Thursday, April 9: We went down to Mom and Dad’s to visit before they leave for Iowa. Brother Johns were there also. Friday, April 10: Katherine substituted at school today, so I was alone. I enjoy it every once in a while. Saturday, April 11: We had school today to make up for the days they lost earlier due to the weather. Mom and Dad left for Iowa this afternoon. Sunday, April 12: It was a beautiful day. The girls got out the croquet set and played a few games. We went down to Wayne’s parents tonight. Monday, April 13: Katherine did a lot of laundry today, including some winter clothing that, hopefully, we can pack away until next winter. Mom called and said they’re okay and having nice weather. Tuesday. April 14: We’re having some beautiful days. The girls are getting antsy to get into Spring Cleaning. Mom called again. Dad’s getting his treatments done. Wednesday, April 15: I tried sewing and managed to get one garment done. My elbows are bothering me a lot. Some of my fingers are swelling up again.
Korner By Katherine Byler
Spring has sprung and we’re enjoying it immensely … not the least of all the idea of the plastic off the front porch and being able to see out. Like a get-out-of-jail free card, do not pass go. Already, SOMEONE said that before we know it, twill be FALL!! Okay, if you really want to know, on Sept. 15, it’s only 100 days to Christmas! * Everyone’s happy that the snow is gone. Maybe especially Mahlon (Crash) Miller, who was so faithfully clearing out the white stuff with the snow scoop. It was the big one with the super curved handle. While he was dumping the load, the handle came up the back and hit him on the head. You figure it out. OUCH! Fred Ida Hochstetler is moving from an apartment in Orwell to Peters Road (former home of Eli E. Miller Jr.) by May 1. House number will be 17747. Wish her happiness in her venture. Our venture took us all the way to Iowa and back. We were at a doctor about 60 miles from the Nebraska border. Our co-passengers made for a shorter trip. They were Bill M. and Ellen Miller, Tavern Road. We stayed at a motel on the way out and also on the way back. It’s about 14 hours driving time each way. Don with his RV equipped van was our very able speed limit driver. The doctor thinks he can help Joe with his Scleroderma, so we have high hopes. It took a while coming, so it may take a while leaving! We appreciate the company we’re getting. Also, sister Betty W. and neighbor girls who came and gave our lawn and flower beds a good working over. Daughter Barbara Ann and girls were here one eve scrubbing indoors. She said it’s a good thing Robert stayed outside, they’d have probably scrubbed HIM! It takes all kinds and it doesn’t mean we’re getting older. One lady had company and could not figure why one foot felt so different than the other. She finally discovered she had two booties on one foot and none on the other! The daffodils and hyacinths look so colorful among the green of the grassy lawn. We still have the tulips to look forward to. Brother John J. S. Miller, 70, in Carroll County is battling colon cancer. His address is 3217 Ming Road, Carrolton, Ohio, 44615, in case someone cares to write him or send a card.
John didn’t have to work today so he did a bunch of outside work. Thursday, April 16: The girls and I went down and cleaned my parents’ house while they’re gone. My brother Robert was there and I worried for a while that the girls were going to scrub him too! Friday, April 17: Dad and Mom started home today. I hope he’ll see results soon. Saturday, April 18: A beautiful day; almost perfect. I walked along the road with Betty and Norma to pick up garbage in the ditches. We got two garbage bags full in less than half a mile! Sunday, April 19: To church and then home for the rest of the day. Monday, April 20: It rained off and on, but held off long enough to get laundry dried. Tuesday, April 21: Katherine and I went thrift shopping with some neighbor ladies. We found a few bargains. Wednesday, April 22: It actually snowed today and we’re back to cool weather. Thursday, April 23: I baked most of the day for a bake sale the school is having tomorrow at the machinery sale. Katherine did the mixing since I can’t do that. Friday, April 24: We went to the machinery sale tonight. We bought our supper, some baked goods and not much else. Saturday, April 25: A nice, sunny day, but a bit chilly. I’m feeling pretty good the past few days, although there are certain areas that do trouble me. My elbows are hurting now and are swollen. I can’t move my arms freely. It really is something how this disease travels from one joint to another and, of course, leaves its damage as it goes. Sunday, April 26: Wayne went to a neighboring church. The girls played nicely all day which made for a good day for us all. Monday, April 27: A dreary day. Katherine did housework instead of laundry. Wayne and I went to the viewing of Melvin Shetler. It was a shock to hear of his passing. Tuesday, April 28: I was alone today because Katherine went to help at school. I puttered around and organized some drawers. Wednesday, April 29: Katherine has been having lots of back pain recently, so I went to the chiropractor with her today. Hopefully, that will take care of it. Thursday, April 30: Katherine decided to start with Spring Cleaning, so she washed the curtains on the sunroom. If it wouldn’t be for my hands and elbows, I’d feel almost normal! I do appreciate feeling as good as I do. Friday, May 1: The last day of school. Betty and Norma think they’re glad, but I know they’re going to miss it after a few weeks. They had a wiener roast for lunch.
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May 1, 2015: It is with heavy heart that I need to write about the passing of a dear friend, Mel J. Shetler. In the blink of an eye, many lives are changed; our hope and prayer is that they can see the sun shine as brightly as it did before. The Shetlers, along with Bert and Sara Miller and Joe and Dora Hostetler visited at Dan (Smoke) and Ina Bontragers Monday eve, the 20th of April. It had been the Hostetler’s turn to choose someone to visit. Then, Sunday morning, the 26th, Mel passed on with what is thought was a heart attack … and by noon, Smoke also had gone to his reward. We will miss them. This morning’s paper brings the news of yet another death, Mrs. Melvin (Buster) Detweiler Jr. (Emma). They had a grandson in Kentucky who got married yesterday to Simon and Mary Ann Schmucker’s daughter. Two vanloads of Kentuckians (mostly former Mesopotamians) were here for the viewing at Shetler’s. Then two van loads came for the funeral. It’s great to see old friends, but sad that it has to be at funerals. Niece Susan. Mrs. Norman Yoder, gave us the news that they want to have a John S. C. Miller gathering Aug. 8. Right off I told her we probably can’t come because of Marty Miller’s consignment auction! It didn’t take long for her to change it to the first of August. Whew! Am sure glad she mentioned it to sister Betty and me first! Susan and Norm’s son Allen has a problem. He wanted to drive the horse and buggy to his dad’s and take their two cute little girls along. But, lo and behold, he could not! The cat had kittens on the buggy and must be they were too little to move. I sure hope it doesn’t happen here. Ray and Cindy Byler also had surprise kittens, as did John and Barb Mast. A whole lot of children were happy! (Too bad the kitties (not the KIDDIES) grow up to become CATS!) Just once I’d like to go shopping in Chardon when it’s not snowing, raining or windy. Am I too fussy? Well, I washed off a buggy for the first time in my life that I recall. At age 67 and a half, it looks like a pretty fair job! It was easier than anticipated. Glad to report hubby was some color in his cheeks again. Now, my job is to fatten him up. HIM, not me! *So glad you’re helping me keep track of the days till Christmas, JR. R. Miller, but must be you can’t count. HINT! HINT! 225 days at last count.
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Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Howdy from West Farmington
Coffee Break with Sue By Susan Yoder
By Mrs. Rudy Kathryn Detweiler
April 30: A friendly “Hi Y’all”! We’re blessed with lots of sunshine despite it being a little cold yet. Everything is nice and green again … brand new! What an awesome God we serve! Our neighbors Paul and Linda welcomed their first child, a little girl named Sara Jane who was born on April 21. The grandparents are Daniel Burkholders and Neil Schmuckers Jr. Greats are Andy Burkholders, Allen A. C. Millers, Neil Schmucker and Dan H. Millers. We traveled out to Holmes County and visited at our niece and cousin Mrs. Kendall (Wilma) Hershberger. Others going along were son Norman Jr., Kathryn and two boys, daughter LeAnna and children and daughter Regina and baby Grace. Dad and Mom Yoder were also there. We had cake
April 23, 2014: We heard the shocking news last night of the sad accident on Route 87 in front of Troy Mill where David Byler, age 63, got killed when he was walking across the street and was hit by a car. Their daughter Amanda works with our girls at Signum and was in the van coming home from work when an ambulance passed. She did not know it was her dad. He was married to Martha (Bill Kemph) and has seven girls and one son. All are married except Amanda. They are in Bishop Gid Miller church district. The address for the family is 16775 Nauvoo Road, Middlefield, Ohio, 44062. Let’s also remember Bill Jr. and Linda Mullet since their dear dad Bill Mullet, age 71, passed away over in Parkman. They gave lots of TLC to their Dad and Mother who are now both gone and a very empty, lonely home left without them. Fishing Fever is in the air and son Marty and Husband Rudy and more guys who went along had their limit of walleye by noon Saturday. So, it’s time to get last year’s fish out of the freezer and make room for fresh fish. We had a big fish fry and barbecue chicken dinner last night when a van load of Davis and Verna Mullets and marrieds of Atlantic, Pa. came to cut next year’s supply of wood. Son John’s family and Billy Millers of Mespo and son Marty also helped us.
and ice cream for her birthday, which is on May 6. Invitations are out for the weddings of Jonathan Yoder (Mervin) and Ann daughter of Noah Troyers as well as for Robbie Miller (Eli) and Rachel daughter of Marvin Schmuckers. These are both on May 21. May 28 is the big day for my nephew David Detweiler Jr. and Lydia daughter of Mahlon and Ruth Byler. Several funerals again this past week. “We rejoice with those who have gladness and sorrow with those with sadness.” Such is life.
Hello from Huntsburg By William Bender Time to get this toy out and put some turkey tracks on this paper. We all know that our winter has left us. It is warm enough that I went to work in April! In the morning, we want to head out for Kentucky for a wedding at Simon Schmuckers. I went for a finger stick today and, when we came back home, a letter was stuck in our door that my letter will be picked up Friday. The Township sure made our corner look different; they cut a lot of trees down. Makes a guy wonder what is all going to happen. Over a hundred years that corner was doing its job as it was; now all at once they want to tear it up. The lawns are getting haircuts; gardens are plowed. I saw one farmer sowing oats today. We are still a little on the cool side and still have a fire in the house every day. A long time friend of ours passed away Sunday morning, Melvin Shetler, age 77. He was the last of John Shetler’s 12 children.
Then, when we went to the viewing, we found out Smoke Bontrager died close to Parkman Sunday around noon. Smoke was 70. Both died of heart attack. I got to know Smoke maybe 30 years ago. We were good friends ever since. One time Uria and I were to watch our nephew Willie Schmucker. We had a plugged drain and Dad dug down to open it. Well, the hole wasn’t filled up yet, so we put Willie in that hole. (Uria’s idea.) It worked good until mother looked out the window. A 3 or 4 year old could have gotten out real fast. (Anyway, some boys that want to do other things thought so.) Uncle Uria used to say we put Joseph in the pit. We didn’t get the last Plain Country so I am not sure what I wrote. Melvin Ray says three more days of school. The school terms go a lot faster than they did 60 years ago. We have three grandchildren coming out of school this year. And here I used to think that I wouldn’t live long enough to get out!
Greetings from the Plain Community By Donnie Miller Monday, April 27, 2015: Greetings … Glanced at the calendar this morning and my letter is due today. OH MY! Another dreary and cool morning. When will it warm up for good? Lawns are growing and being mowed. Three deaths in the community. Thursday, April 23 was the funeral of David C. Byler from Nauvoo Road who was killed on Monday the 20th by Troy Mill while he was crossing the road going home from work. David was the son of Crist E. and Sylvia (Hostetler) Byler. Survivors ware his wife Martha (Kempf ), seven daughters and one son. Sunday came news of two more deaths … Mel Shetler, age 77, and Dan (Smoke) Bontrager, age 70. Both passed away suddenly on the morning when they had planned to attend communion services. Our sympathy to the families.
“When you are courting a nice girl an hour seems like a second. When you sit on a redhot cinder a second seems like an hour. That’s relativity.” ~Albert Einstein
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Visitors last evening were sons Mikes and Toms, also Sara Jane and Andrew. Ice cream and cake were served for Sara Jane’s birthday. Tonight is our Troyer Family night at Ken and Sara Benders. A daughter named Sherri Lynn was born to Danny Jr. and Lori Gingerich. Dannys are first time parents. Grands are Dan Sr. and Dan Kuhns of Kentucky. Greats are John Gingerich Ada and John Kuhns. Simon Gingerich is not well. He is on oxygen and is weaker and losing out. He had hoped to attend communion, but not sure yet. Nancy had her eighth round of Chemo pills last week and does not feel as well this week. Doctors want her to take 12 rounds total. Every 28 days, she will take five days of the pills. We hope for the best. Her last MRI showed clear.
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Chuckle: A passenger in a taxi had a question for the driver and tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention. The driver let out a scream, threw his hands in the air, hit the steering wheel with his legs, swerved into the next lane nearly colliding with a dump truck, jumped the median and plowed across three lanes of oncoming traffic, just missing being smashed by a bus. For a minute everything was deadly silent in the cab. Then the driver spoke up, “Please, I beg you, don’t do that again. You nearly scared me to kingdom come.” The passenger, also scared out of his wits, said he was very sorry and he didn’t realize a tap on the shoulder could cause so much panic. The driver explained, “It’s not really your fault. I’m the one who should apologize. It’s just that today is my very first day driving a cab. For the last 20 years, I drove a hearse!” (Whew, that would be scary!)
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Many thanks to them all! Seems Old Man Winter does not want to leave us this spring. Believe it or not, it is snowing this morning and, yes, it is April 23. And this is after having some 70 degree weather. So … all the Spring projects are on a standstill today. Hubby is enjoying himself using a bobcat to take out some ugly old trees and shrubs. Some of those plants were over 40 years old. Sure makes the scenery more pleasant with them gone. On Tuesday, Mel Shetler Maurine, Albert, Dan, Andy Ida, sisters Crist Ida and Joe Martha and I traveled to Home, Pa. to visit Ben Shetler Fannnie who is grieving the sudden unexplained death of her husband Ben, our uncle and Mel Shetler’s brother. It is hard to believe Mel is the only one living of the John Shetler family anymore. We only dwell on the many memories now and hope to meet them all some sweet day. Yesterday, the marrieds of (Aggie Joe) Bill Lizzie traveled to Atlantic, Pa. to remind Lizzie of her birthday. Happy Birthday, Lizzie. Milo Mary Detweiler and daughter Mrs. John Rachel Hershberger and widow Mahlon Gert Byler were also on our load and went along to different places in Punxsey, Pa. to visit relatives.
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Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Parkman Pathways By Ellen Hershberger Saturday, March 21: A busy day with going to town. Regina was here so kindly spring-cleaning my 2 bedrooms. Last year I was able to do it all myself. Sunday, March 22: A nice day of rest and then we visited Aunt Fannie and Melvin Yoder in the evening. Monday March 23 - Wednesday, March 25: A week of work helping 2 days at school, etc. Tuesday evening we went singing by scribe Donnie and Nancy Miller. Wednesday evening we enjoyed the corned beef and cabbage dinner at the church in Parkman. Thursday, March 26: Another nice day at school and I find myself getting quite attached to these little ones. Friday, March 27: A busy 3 hours at work, and then we spent this evening out with friends. Saturday, March 28: We had a load planned to visit cousin Edna Mae at a clinic in Mansfield, but 3 were not feeling up to going, so just 5 of us went. We found Edna Mae being as cheerful as usual and being hopeful that the cancer treatments are helpful. Sunday, March 29: After church today we had a delicious ham supper with family. Monday, March 30: Got some errands done after work and then to bed at 8:00 to fight off this miserable cold. Tuesday, March 31: I was at school today and then we did paper checking here at my house after school. Wednesday, April 1: I “forgot” to take sister with me to get a treatment today and it was no April first joke. Tonight, I went with Mikes to Orwell and saw the home they have bought and also enjoyed the good supper at Lesters. Thursday, April 2: I put out the first Oriole feedings. I worked the three hours today instead of tomorrow. Good Friday, April 3: Our cousins from Andover and here had a good meal by Neil and Mattie Miller. Saturday, April 4: After cleaning my house, (yes, it does get dirty) I wanted to spend time at the library … only to find out they close early. Sunday, April 5: We had brunch together here and then, on the afternoon, sister and I were with Rita for two hours at Briar Hill. It tugs at the heart to see the many helpless, lonely souls there. In the evening, we were blessed with neighbors visiting us. What a wonderful privilege! Monday, April 6: Just a normal day of some work, a little baby-sitting and then our visiting group spent the evening by Bob and Fannie Mae Miller. They’ve come a long way from Fannie Mae’s brain surgery and having a 3-pound preemie. Tuesday, April 7: Six of us had a nice get together today and then the singers’ group was by Mrs. Daniel Byler. Wednesday, April 8: Just an easy, normal day. Thursday, April 9: Rain, rain, most all day at the wedding of Eli Ray and Clara Kurtz. My aunts from Michigan and here were along to visit Elmina in the afternoon. Friday, April 10: After work and rest in the afternoon, we enjoyed a fish supper in Warren. This was a beautiful night for the auction for Sunny Hope School. Sunday, April 12: We were to all day
services today. Monday, April 13: After work I did some errands and then, this evening, the singles group took supper to Mrs. Gertrude Byler. A very enjoyable evening. Tuesday, April 14: Another worthwhile day at Tinkers Creek School. The days are going by fast! Wednesday, April 15: After the easy work shift, I went for a treatment and can’t be thankful enough that, on a daily basis, my back pain is gone for the most part! It is such a blessing of GOD’S mercy. Thursday, April 16: We had a good day at school, the children enjoying a lively indoor game when it rained. Teacher Marlin took his first graders to his house for supper tonight. This is from our school here on Bundysburg Road. Michael came home with the gift of a bow and arrow, which he was pretty excited about! Friday, April 17: A load of us relatives went to the viewing of friend Robert tonight. Saturday, April 18: Not feeling too peppy due to stomach flu. All I did was run errands and a few odd jobs at home. We paid a visit tonight to the Matthew Yutzy home. Sunday, April 19: After a morning walk, the kind neighbor brought a bouquet of daffodils. We had brunch “out back” and stayed for supper. Tuesday, April 21: We had visitors at school today which we enjoyed. The singing group went to the Albert Miller home tonight where they have 2 sons on wheelchairs. Wednesday, April 22: After work and treatment, I went to an Amish store, the post office, etc and then cozied up catching up on writing tonight. Just heard the news of David Byler’s accident. Thursday, April 23: This was my last day at school … an inspiring experience since Christmas. Friday, April 24: After the threehour shift, transit took me to a doctor appointment in Chardon. Afterwards, my friends David, Alnita and Lee took me out and we enjoyed fish dinner together (except I had roast beef. Saturday, April 25: This was the big day for the Marty sale and our school had charge of the lunch stand. It was fun but tiring and they had a huge crowd. Sunday, April 26: We had all day Communion services and just resting tonight. Monday, April 27: Just a typical day of work and baby-sitting. Then I spent a few hours making copies, faxing and doing other errands with Bonnie. I guess I need to quell the rumors that I am moving. Not so. I still live in the little house where my aunts used to live. It is right beside my house, which is bigger. Nephew Michael and family have plans to move to Orwell soon …out of my house. Eli Ray and Clara Kurtz want to move into my house when Michaels vacate. Tuesday, April 28: A beautiful day to do laundry and wash windows where the robins have been pecking. Hopefully, the screens will now discourage them. Wednesday, April 29: This afternoon, I was able to enjoy the fellowship of Miriam’s sisters and mom who were here helping pack.
Esther, Minnie and I then ate the free dinner at the church. It was good! It was chicken enchiladas, rice, cornbread and dessert. Thursday, April 30: Today was the wedding down the road at Ray Fishers. I’m enjoying the many birds at the feeders … and the oriole has come back! GOD’S blessings wished to all.
“Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul - and sings the tunes without the words - and never stops at all.” ~Emily Dickinson “If you could kick the person in the pants responsible for most of your trouble, you wouldn’t sit for a month.” ~Theodore Roosevelt “All generalizations are false, including this one.” ~Mark Twain
The Quickie Update By Jaime A Fisher RN DON Middlefield Care Center Here’s a quick update. The Care Center has been hopping. We were expecting to slowdown for the month of May, and then to rev back up for June and July, but April was a 16-baby month. The winners for the most visits to the Care Center are … February: Marvin and Katie Byler; March: Lester and Rosa Yoder, and April: Ray and Catherine Byler. Thanks to all for your continued support and commitment to the Care Center. It doesn’t go unnoticed. Attention: We need to ask the help of our friends of the Care Center. After pouring over the numbers, the Board noted an increase of operating costs as we trailblaze into our 25th year of newborns. We need to have a lot more months like this past April. Staffing costs are cut in half since it costs the same to deliver two newborns as it does one. Therefore saving that delivery money for major repairs and the updates required
to keep our birthing center in the top 10 percent of free-standing birthing centers in the country. So please spread the news to your friends and family. The Care Center is an awesome home environment to welcome the newest member of your family. According to Geauga County statistics, 1,272 newborns were delivered in Geauga county in 2014 with 16 home deliveries and 152 deliveries at the Care Center. The rest, 1,104, were born at Geauga Hospital. The Amish population represents a large part of this community. Help me to continue to grow the Care Center. As always, thank you for the best Job in the world! All suggestions and comments are welcomed. This is your Birthing Center of which many are so thankful. Until next month. ~ Labor the hardest work you will ever Love.
Wise Advice to Buggy Drivers From the people in your life who care for you Always drive in the buggy lane when one is provided. Pull to the side of the road to let traffic pass when it is safe to do so. Always be visible day and night by using lights and reflective tape Buggies are “slow-moving vehicles” and should always have the appropriate signage. Only use horses that are accustomed to being on the road. Always bring the horse to a complete stop at stop signs. Be careful when making left turns. Always signal a turn.
Bits and Pieces of the Past By Mrs. Henry Detweiler, submitted by Rachel Miller The Tornado at Atlantic, Pa. continued: Eli Fishers had church the first time after the tornado. After services and before going back to Andys, we walked up to where our house once had been. That was nine days afterward and the first time I had returned, I didn’t think it would ever seem like home again, with all the familiar surroundings gone. Now, 12 years later, we still have a very grateful (but unworthy) feeling toward all the kind folks who helped build and make a new home for us. Folks who don’t know it would never guess that a tornado had gone through here. All our crops and garden had to be replanted, which was done by kind friends, “English” as well as Amish. Not much lawn
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mowing had to be done that first summer. We could still pick some strawberries but they weren’t good; they had a muddy taste. We had nine children at the time, so our family all went through the tornado except Nancy who was born the next year. Roman was only 1 year old so he can’t remember anything. This is our experience going through the 1985 tornado. But I am sure others could add to it. There were four other Amish homes taken completely, those of Dave Troyers, Jonas N. Millers, Ben Weavers and Ben Hershbergers. Several other houses were damaged, and barns and other buildings were also taken.
Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Tinker’s Creek School
featuredschool From the Teachers
From Teacher Barbara … Greetings from Tinkers Creek School. I’m Teacher Barbara Yutzy and I teach first, second, third and fifth grades. We only have 13 days left of school. I think everyone would agree this school-term really flew. Everyone is enjoying these nice days, here at school. I hope everyone else is, too. God Bless Everyone.
From Teacher Rebecca … I’m Teacher Rebecca Bricker. This is my first term in teaching and I have grades eight, seven, six, and four. We are all having fun playing baseball right now. Our school gets out May 1 and the Picnic is planned for Monday night, May 4. The children are getting done with their books pretty fast! Hope you all have a good summer!
It’s All About … Michael Byler, age 12, grade six, birthday 1-13-03 Artwork by James Bender
When I Grow Up, I Want To Be … Grade One: Roofer … Jacob Bender Teacher … Annie Miller Sara Mae Miller Grade Two: Teacher … Marcia Detweiler Amy Miller Sara May Miller Linda Yoder Hunter… Danny Ray Hostetler Farmer … Donnie Miller Kenny Miller Grade Three: Teacher … Katie Mae Detweiler Esther Yoder Farmer … Andrew Miller Sammy Miller Grade Five: Woodsman … Marcus Bender Mason … Marc Miller Babysitter … Karen Coblentz Roofer … Phillip Miller Myron Miller
Favorites … book -Old Yeller, subject –English, color – blue, song – Love Your Neighbor, indoor game – Stiniz, outdoor game – baseball, bird- chickadee, drink – Pepsi, candy bar – Milky Way, season – summer Likes … playing baseball, ponies Dislikes … eating carrots, drinking coffee, blowing leaves This summer I look forward to going to Virginia Beach I hope I never have to go to the hospital. Someday I’d like to shoot a buck.
Mary Beth Coblentz, age 12, grade six, birthday Feb. 12, 2003 Favorites … subject –spelling, color – pink, song – Jesus Signed My Pardon, indoor game – Confusion, outdoor game – baseball, bird- dove, drink – Root Beer candy bar – Twix, season – spring Likes … reading, dogs Dislikes … eating carrots, drinking Dr. Pepper, doing math This summer I look forward to going on vacation. I hope I never have to go to the hospital. Someday I’d like to work in Sunny Hope School.
Leanna Detweiler, age 11, grade six, birthday October 15 Favorites … subject –math, color – teal, song – One Day at a Time, indoor game – dodge ball, outdoor game – baseball, bird- bluebird, drink – ice tea, candy bar – Snickers, season – spring Likes … stamping, ponies Dislikes … eating apples, drinking lemon tea, cleaning the fish bowl This summer I look forward to camp. I hope I never have to eat mushrooms. Someday I’d like to be a teacher.
Jamie Fisher, age 11, grade six, birthday 9-2003 Favorites … book -Old Yeller, subject –Geography, color – blue, song - I’m Free, indoor game – ping pong, outdoor game – baseball, bird- yellow finch, drink – Mountain Dew, candy bar – Snicker, season – summer Likes … playing baseball, Horses Dislikes … eating oysters, drinking root beer, cleaning the barn This summer I look forward to playing baseball. Some day I’d like to be a carpenter.
Betty Anne Miller, age 12, grade six, birthday March 11, 2003
Artwork by Annie
Favorites … book –Lily Books, subject –writing, color – coral/white/gray, song – Ashes of Love, indoor game – playing cards, outdoor game – volleyball, bird- blue bird, drink – ice tea, candy bar – Milky Way, season – summer Likes … playing outside, dogs Dislikes … eating beans, drinking coffee, washing dishes This summer I look forward to going to trips. I hope I never have to drive a horse. Someday I’d like to baby-sit.
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Stories with Spelling Words The words to be used were: announcements, benefit, cable, connected, engage, household, laundry, leisure, locomotive, machinery, mankind, mercy, mysteries, produced, resemble, revolution, sigh, traffic, typewriter, and volume.
A Machinery By Leah Bender, grade seven We went to a machinery place where they made household things. We have always gone through a revolution in our ways of traveling. They were having a leisure time so they took us for some announcements. We had an engage conversation with the workers. One man gave a sigh and said we just got a call from the laundry mat. Their one washer is broke so we have to go to fix it. “This place resembles a lot like Texas.” said Dan. We went to a benefit about machines it was very interesting. On the way over it was a lot of traffic jams along the way. The volume of the trucks motors hurt my ears. We pasted a locomotive on the way too. They said they cure a lot of mysteries around there. And they produced a lot of other things this year. We somehow connected with a man and wrote my parents in Texas with a typewriter. On the way home the cable on the van broke so we had to fix it. Me and my brother were in the van and he punched me and I said have mercy on me would you. We met the president of the road he is a friend of mankind.
A Story about Machinery By Benji Byler, grade seven There was once a boy who loved machinery. In his leisure time he was trying to make machines, but none would ever work. When he was 9 years old he took a cable and connected it to a typewriter and sat there for hours just playing with it. It was one of his amusements. He tried to invent the locomotive but there was too many mysteries about inventing it. He had to do his own laundry in the household. He produced something that resembles a pencil on an eraser instead of an eraser on a pencil. He would sit there and sigh because he could not count the traffic wheels revolution. Of all mankind he wanted to invent something. When he became older he got a girlfriend. Then they got engaged and five days later they got married. Later he received a benefit. He then got an apprentice to help him in his shop. There they invented a radio and its high volume was 20. Lots of people had mercy on him when he got older.
Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Stories with Spelling Words By Jason Byler, grade seven Yesterday Mom said if she is done with the laundry we may walk over to the machinery auction. When we went over to the auction we were surprised to also see household goods. I came home and read volume 2 of “Phantom Stallion” books. Summer is around the corner and the strawberries are coming. Last year we produced eight bushels of strawberries. We had mysteries going on around our house. We usually set our lunch buckets outside the house. Two mournings in a row our lunch buckets were pen and our food was gone. We thought it might be a coon so we placed the lunch buckets inside and put a trap where the lunch buckets were and we caught the con. We went to my uncles who lives out west. We went with a locomotive when someone put a cable on the track and we came off track. We used a typewriter in the store over by our old place and we liked it, so we bought us a new one. A man came into the store and said the Earth makes 500,000,000,000 revolutions every minute and each time it rains 2000 times more. I did not believe him. And he said 60 1/3 seconds resembles an hour. He just kept on talking. He said he is not engaged with his family. That day it was a lot of amusements. That same day the man said he is connected with drugs. I just had to sigh about the man. Food is something for every mankind. My Mom was startled when she heard a man did not let his son eat for a whole week. My Mom said, “Mercy! Mercy!” There was a traffic jam for the police when they went to get the man. They had a benefit auction at our house and I hardly could leisure.
Artwork by Marcus Artwork byJacob Miller
Artwork by Davy Miller
Artwork by Davy Miller
Artwork by Kenny Detweiler Artwork by Sara Ann Yoder
Artwork by Jacob Bender
Artwork by Donnie
Artwork by Sara Mae
Continued on page 9
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Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Tinker’s Creek School
featuredschool
Artwork by Matthew Bender
Artwork by Marcus
Word Search by Marlene Miller
Artwork by Amy
Word Search by Leanne Byler
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Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Tinker’s Creek School
Artwork by Karen Coblentz Artwork by Sara May
Artwork by Marc
Artwork by Sammie Miller
Word Search by Raymond Yoder
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Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Books in Review
Bookmobile News
By Jacquie Foote “The Waiting” published by Revell, Grand Rapids, Michigan, copyright 2010, written by Suzanne Woods Fisher is also available with two other novels by Mrs. Fisher in a collection called “Secrets”. Either way, it is a story well worth reading. “The Waiting” is set in the mid 1960s, a time of upset in America at large, and a time when the “Englisch” world caused problems for Amish Communities. Amish were granted Conscientious Objector status before the Second World War, but, during the Korean Conflict, the government changed the rules. An Amish man called up by “Selective Service” AKA “The Draft” could no longer remain on the farm, doing service to his country by raising food for “The War Effort”. In the 1950s the government decided that, If drafted, Amish men had to leave home and serve elsewhere in some capacity or other. They could be assigned to do work for the government here, in the States, often as a hospital orderly. Or they could agree to be sent over seas into the battle zone to work as a stretcher bearer or corpsman. In either case, they would be away from any Amish Community. In addition, Amish parochial schools, which the Amish had tried to start since the closing of one-room schoolhouses in the late 1930s, were taking hold but were still regarded as inferior by many state boards of education. There was always a danger that local authorities would make a move to close the Amish schoolhouses and force the children back into the public schools. And, of course, it was a time when the Civil Rights Movement was on the minds of many. Suzanne Fisher weaves the themes of that time skillfully into the story, making them an important part of the backdrop and of the story itself. Few Amish themed novels contain the fullness of the times in which the story was supposed to occur. Mrs. Fisher also goes more deeply into Amish life and values than most other nonAmish authors do. And she does so with knowledge, authority and respect. “The Waiting” is about Amish Farming families in an area of Lancaster County. The quiet Community had done its best to be separate from the more hectic Englisch world. But things begin to happen. Cal Zook, who has headed Beacon
Hollow, the family farm, since the deaths of his parents in a traffic accident, is chosen, in the traditional Amish way, to be one of the ministers in a new church district. His wife is not well and the extra duties of a minister worry her. A new one-room schoolhouse has been built for that district and Cal is instrumental in choosing Jorie King, a neighbor whose family raises Percherons on their farm, Stoney Creek, to be the teacher. Both Cal and Jorie are devout, joyful Amish Christians. They will need to be, to withstand the problems that the world will throw at them. Cal’s younger brother, Ben, has been called up and is serving as a stretcherbearer in Vietnam. Jorie is waiting for Ben to return. They planned to marry. The next youngest brother, Matthew receives notice of his call up. A new veterinarian moves to the area with his pregnant wife. They are in need of a house and Jorie’s father, at her suggestion, rents them the house on his farm that his parents had lived in. The vet and his family are people of color and there are those who do not like the fact that they have found a place to live among the Amish. Ephraim, Cal’s youngest brother befriends a large cat - a very large cat. Cal’s great aunts decide to abandon the Amish tradition of non-interference in courting matters and start to play the matchmaking game, resulting in many excellent meals and more than a few hilarious moments. Throughout the story, the strength of the Community and the depth of the commitment of its members to each other is an underlying joy even though some members carry things a bit far from time to time. Sometimes with results that lead to chuckles. This book is a delight to read. Its historical accuracy is a jewel not that often found in novels; its characters are believable and likable. Mrs. Fisher is a master storyteller and the story is involving and, even, gripping. I have not read a book I would recommend more highly than “The Waiting”.
Greetings from the Bookmobile
By Leah Schmidt
On April 9 and 10 the Friends of the Bookmobile sponsored Penitentiary Glen Reservation’s Raptor Encounter Program for four Amish Schools. The schools in this year’s program rotation were Stoney Creek, Peters Road, Sawmill Lane, and Lakeview. A total of 133 children, eight teachers, and four other adults attended the programs. I was at each of the presentations, and it was very interesting and fun. I also truly enjoyed spending time with the children and teachers at each of the schools. One of our drivers, Sheila, had an interesting request from a young adult Bookmobile patron. A young man asked, “How many Matt Christopher books are available?” Sheila looked it up and told the young man: “202.””Can I order all?” He asked. He must be a very good reader, and we love to see young people that are hungry for books. The Geauga W.O.R.K. Out Challenge will begin May 1 and will end Sept. 11. Geauga W.O.R.K. Out is a program that promotes both mental and physical activity. We are teaming up with UH Geauga Medical Center and the Geauga Park District for this event. The program is open anyone age 12 and up. Participants will sign up at the libraries or the Bookmobile to receive a starter kit and challenge log. If participants complete the activities in four categories (Walk, Observe, Read, Know) then they will receive a final incentive including a stainless steel water bottle as well as be entered into a drawing for larger prizes! Participants can choose to be entered into a drawing for a Fitbit Flex, Walking Sticks & “Best Hikes Near Cleveland” book, Yoga Mat and DVD
or a $25 Sporting Goods Gift Card. Yeah May! Each month the library adds numerous items to its collection, and May is no exception. Nonfiction titles include “Born Special” by Rhea B. Woodruff; “Better Made at Home: Salty, Sweet, Satisfying Snacks and Pantry Staples You Can Make Yourself” by Esterelle Payany; “Sunday Soup: A Year’s Worth of Mouthwatering, Easy-to-Make Recipes” by Betty Rosbottom; and also available is “ The Complete Illustrated Guide to Farming” by Samantha Johnson and Philip Hasheider; and from Dewey 364, “Listening to Killers: Lessons Learned from My 20 Years as a Psychological Expert Witness in Murder Cases” by James Garbarino. Our juvenile collection also has many new books, and I have selected but a few to feature in this column. The collection includes board books like “Psalm 23” by Richard Jesse Watson, and “Pups of the Spirit” with illustrations by Deborah Melmon. A seasonally appropriate picture book is “Sun Above and Blooms Below: A Springtime of Opposites” by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky and beautifully illustrated by Susan Swan. For school age children “Andy, the Unhandy: and Other Stories for Children” by Elizabeth Wengerd; and a reproduction of an original work published before 1923, “The Corner House Girls: How They Moved to Milton, What they Found, and What They Did” by Grace Brooks Hill. For those who love baseball, “Out at Home” by Cal Ripken, Jr. with Kevin Cowherd, and Mike Lupica’s The Only Game. May is a favorite month of many, because on most May days, spring feels like spring!
Tell Me an April First Story By Mrs. Rudy Kathryn Detweiler The Bible teaches us not to say April Fool, so we say “April First”. One Sunday afternoon years ago, Rudy and I were coming home from church, slowly going up the hill in our horse and buggy over on Girdle Road. I saw something lying on the road. As we went on, I kept thinking that the thing in the road looked like a pocketbook. Rudy thought so, too. So, he stopped the horse.
Sudoko puzzle on Page 12
I got off and ran back to pick it up and … it disappeared just as I reached down. It had an invisible string attached to it and, probably, some giggling boys behind the bushes who thought that this was very funny. If they read this, they are probably still laughing even though they are grown men.
Chuckle: The little boy ran to his father and exclaimed, “Wow! You should see the new lawn mower the people next door got! It does not need gas or anything! All you have to do is push it!”
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Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Recipes That Can Be Fixed Ahead Rhubarb Coffee Cake
Rhubarb Torte Submitted by Mrs. Rudy Kathryn Detweiler
Submitted by Katherine Byler
Birds are singing, “It’s Spring! It’s Spring!” And our rhubarb is showing off, making me hungry for this delicious torte. Crust: 1 cup butter 2 cups flour 4 tablespoons brown sugar Mix well until crumbly. Then put into a 9 inch by 13 inch pan and bake for 10 minutes at 350 degrees. Custard: 5 cups Rhubarb, cut fine 6 egg yokes, beaten 2 cups white sugar 4 tablespoons flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup cream 1 teaspoon vanilla Mix all together and pour over baked crust and bake at 350 degrees for another 45 minutes or until the custard is settled. Meringue: 6 egg whites 3/4 cup white sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon cream of tarter Beat egg whites until stiff, gradually adding sugar, salt and cream of tarter. Spread over torte and bake at 350 degrees for another 15 minutes.
Sudoko - Medium
White Bread
1/4 cup sugar 2 tablespoons lard 1 1/2 cup hot water 1 cup cold water 1 package dry yeast 1 1/2 teaspoon salt 6 cups flour
3/4 cups butter 1 1/8 cups milk 1 1/2 cups sugar 3 cups plus 2 tablespoons flour 1 egg 4 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 3/4 teaspoons salt 3 cups chopped rhubarb Crumb Mixture: 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Sauce: (optional) 2 eggs (beaten) 2 cups sugar 1 cup cream or pet milk 1/2 stick butter 2 teaspoons vanilla Cream butter and sugar and then add egg, milk and dry ingredients, reserving the 2 tablespoons flour. Roll rhubarb in the reserved flour and fold into the batter. Combine crumb mixture ingredients. Spread batter in a 9 in. X 13 in. pan, sprinkle with crumb mixture and bake at 350 degrees until toothpick comes out clean. Serve with warm sauce if desired: Combine sauce ingredients except for butter and vanilla in a heavy saucepan over low heat until boiling, stirring all the while. Boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla. Keep warm until served.
Submitted by Ellen Hershberger
Mix sugar, lard and both hot and cold water. Then add yeast and let set until foamy. Add salt and flour, kneading until elastic but not sticky. Let rise 1/2 hour. Punch down and let rise 45 minutes more. Punch down again and let rise 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes.
Windsor
Stairs and Millwork Answer on page 11
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We Remodel • Stairs KITCHENS ! • Boxed Newels • All Interior Trim Unfinished or Prefinished • Hardwood Flooring • Hand-scraped Flooring For That Aged Look • Hand Hewn Beams • Custom Finishings
July 4th Ox Roast Weekend
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be sure to reserve your space soon! Space is running out! Call Melvin today (855) 3155665.
The show will take place Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 17,000 sq. ft. 60 vendor booths of various sizes. Business owners/operators will have the opportunity to present their products and services to as many as 10,000 consumers. The consignment auction will begin Friday 4 p.m. Sale items include tools, indoor and outdoor furniture and more! Double B Assembly LLC will give away $500 in prizes Friday!$500 in prizes on Saturday! Food will be served.
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Call Dave C. Miller 440-272-5157
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Plain Country of Northeast Ohio | May 13, 2015
Recipes for Busy Times Mexican Chicken Rollups Submitted by Barbara Ann Detweiler 2 1/2 cups turkey or chicken, cubed 1 1/2 cups sour cream, divided 3 teaspoons taco seasoning, divided 1 can cream of mushroom soup, divided 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided 1 small onion, chopped 1/2 cup salsa 10 flour tortillas Shredded lettuce to taste Medium tomato, chopped Combine meat, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning, 1/2 of the soup, 1 cup cheese, all the onion and salsa. Place 1/3 cup of this filling on each tortilla. Roll each one up and place, seam side down, on greased 13x9x2 baking dish. Combine remaining sour cream, taco seasoning, and soup. Pour over tortillas. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Serve with lettuce and tomato. Top with more salsa and sour cream if desired.
Rhubarb Dessert
Submitted by Sarah Miller 1/2 pound butter 14 tablespoons + 2 cups sugar 2 cups plus 2 level tablespoons flour 5 cups rhubarb, cut fine 1 1/2 cups sweet cream 6 egg yolks 6 egg whites, beaten 1/4 teaspoon plus a pinch of salt 2 tablespoons vanilla Crumple together the butter, 2 tablespoons of the sugar and 2 cups of the flour and press into a cake pan. Mix the rhubarb, the egg yolks, the sweet cream, 2 cups of the sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and the vanilla and pour into the cake pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 to 45 minutes. Mix remaining ingredients and put on top of baked filling and brown.
Quick TwoWay Dinner Anonymous 1 or more pound ground meat 1 large onion, chopped, for each pound of ground meat 2 cups of tomato sauce or spaghetti sauce for each pound of ground meat Salt and pepper to taste Enough noodles for all who will eat OR 2 hamburger buns each for all who will eat Sauté’ ground beef, adding chopped onion when meat is half done. Add tomato or spaghetti sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve over noodles or on the buns with pickles on the side. It’s great with the Quick Rhubarb Pudding for dessert!!
Quick Rhubarb Dessert Submitted by Rachel Miller 2 to 3 cups rhubarb 1 to 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 tablespoon Clear Jell 2 teaspoons strawberry Jell-O (more if desired) Combine all ingredients and cook until tender, no water needed. Can use as pie filling, or if in a hurry, as pudding.
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