Heart of Ohio - Fall 2011 by Heart of Ohio Magazine, LLC

cELEBRATING HOMEGROWN SUCCESS

FALL 2011

A Haunting in Mansfield PLUS: Love the Planet, Decorate the Walls Keeping Score with Mike Greene Locavore / Locapour Community Development

— PAID ADVERTORIAL —

Simply EZ

Sharon & Don Granter ®

When it comes to food service, the name Granter has been synonymous with it in the Mansfield area for 4 decades. In 1998 Don and Sharon Granter took the experience they had acquired in the retail and catering sectors “on the road” , so to speak, when they founded Simply EZ - Home Delivered Meals. They began by serving just one county with one van and one driver. Today Simply EZ has distribution centers in Mansfield, Columbus, Akron and Toledo delivering 120,000 meals each month in 56 Ohio Counties. What has allowed this food service business to flourish? In large part it has to do with Don and Sharon’s knowledge of and experience in the food service industry as well as their dedication to pleasing every customer that Simply EZ serves. For those of you who don’t know, Simply EZ - Home Delivered Meals is a government authorized food provider approved by the Area Agency on Aging and the Ohio Department on Aging. Due to the nature of the program, they must abide by the rules and regulations set down for them. That means that the meals must be nutritionally sound and meet all of the daily requirements. However, that does not mean that you must eat something you don’t like! With their 6 week lunch/dinner menu and 4 week rotating breakfast menu, Simply EZ offers as wide a variety of entrees, vegetables, fruits and desserts as possible. Making sure that their customers receive a varied selection and are not getting the same thing over and over again is very important to them. Simply EZ strives to make sure that mealtime is an enjoyable experience. Perhaps THE one thing that has set Simply EZ apart from other home delivered meal providers since its inception is their packaging. Almost all of the food they deliver is vacuum packed allowing them to deliver the number of meals requested in ONE WEEKLY VISIT. They are not at your door every day. Again, it’s Simply EZ’s way of offering the convenience that their customers desire and deserve. Although the bulk of our Home Delivered Meals program is currently in the Area Agency on Aging and Passport sectors and government funded, we at Simply EZ are always looking for ways to expand our services. We are positioned and prepared to accommodate the volume feeding needs of groups in the public and private sectors including senior living facilities, schools, hospitals, correctional institutions, veterans groups and homes for the mentally and physically challenged. Finally, we at Simply EZ believe in giving back to the counties and communities we serve. That’s why we are members of the various Chambers of Commerce, support worthy causes and volunteer when we can. We owe our success to the thousands of individuals who help make Ohio a wonderful place to live, work and do business. So from all of us at Simply EZ... a “simple THANK YOU”.

Simply EZ Home Delivered Meals 1223 Ashland Road Mansfield, OH 44905

1-866-439-6325 LOCAL 419-589-4006 www.simplyez.net

TOLL FREE

To a chef, an empty bowl is the best thank you.

It’s all set in motion from the first bite. You can’t stop until the bowl is empty — even licked. But there was nothing simple about creating Panera Bread’s Signature Mac & Cheese. It was a labor of love. An exercise in finding the perfect dance of cheeses and pasta. Our Head Chef, Dan Kish, was lucky to have his own team of taste testers right at home. In the end, the winning recipe was a savory blend of white cheddars and the perfect shell pasta. And the test run? Well, his family ate every bite. Try our Signature Mac & Cheese as part of a You Pick Two® with a Bacon Turkey Bravo® Sandwich.

Mansfield 2070 Walker Lake Rd.

Wooster 3934 Burbank Rd. panerabread.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

42 6

FEATURES A Haunting in Mansfield

Decorating with a 18 Recipe for Success Community Development: 28 The Key to Recovery and Growth Locavore / Locapour 32 www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Love the Planet, 42 Decorate the Walls

FALL 2011

32 28

FROM THE EDITOR

It’s time to start tucking summer away in all the places we store our bikes, and boats and lawn furniture. A book started on the beach, put aside to explore the sunshine, will be finished while snuggled under a favorite quilt. In this issue we welcome fall with a visit to the Bissman Building and the Ohio State Reformatory. Both have been the scene of movies and featured on television shows that offer spooky stories about haunted locations. Whether you believe they’re haunted or not, you’ll have to agree they are fascinating. This is the season of county fairs, so of course we had to take a look at the Little Brown Jug at the Delaware County Fair. That’s harness racing as good as it gets. We are rich with stories about talented people who brighten the world with their ideas. Doni and Burton Stahl’s marriage of painting and music keeps them together; Diane Kaye creates beautiful fused glass pieces, and Stephanie Zing explains her love of recycled art. And let’s not forget John Talbott, the new Executive Director of Development and Campaigns at The Ren. Mike Greene visits the Wilson Football Factory in Ada, where every football used in the NFL since 1941 has been produced. Read “Locavore / Locapour” for a story about how some area restaurants are designing their menus around locally produced foods and wines, and this edition of Cruisin’ is an introduction to wineries around the area. A solid history and forward thinking are things that have kept Mechanics Bank around for one hundred twenty five years, read about where they’ve been. North Central State College looks to a bright future that embraces our communities as they announce the new Ralph Phillips Conference Center, planned for the Kehoe Center in Shelby. This is such an amazing season when Mother Nature is busy creating her annual “foliage fireworks display” that will soon sweep across the landscape. We’re not wasting any time here, either; while you’re enjoying this new fall issue we’ve set to work on our first annual Holiday Issue that will be on the stands in November. Don’t waste any time looking over your shoulder at the receding summer, look forward to the change of seasons in the heart of Ohio.

Publisher SunGraphics, Inc. Diane K. Brown, President diane@sungraphicsinc.com Editor Diana L. Coon editor@heartofohiomagazine.com Sales & Marketing Debra Baker debra@heartofohiomagazine.com Contributing Writers Diana L. Coon Julie McCready Mike Greene Paula M. Cohen Guest Authors Graphic Designers Tami Shuck Tom Hofacre Circulation Becky Herrick maildept@sungraphicsinc.com

Heart of Ohio magazine is printed and published quarterly (plus special editions) by SunGraphics, Inc.

41 Longview Ave. E., Mansfield, Ohio 44903

Diana L. Coon, Editor Heart of Ohio magazine

Visit www.heartofohiomagazine.com for more information, or call 419.524.2127.

FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

ON THE COVER: Ohio State Reformatory Photographer: Scott Sukel

Copyright 2010 pending, Heart of Ohio Magazine, LLC. ISSN 2158-8732. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission. SunGraphics, Inc. and Heart of Ohio Magazine, LLC accept no responsibility for unsolicited material. While ensuring that all published information is accurate, the publisher cannot be held responsible for mistakes and/or omissions. Distributed through local retailers, advertisers and by subscription.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS Sports & Recreation

The Arts

12 Keeping Score with Mike Greene: Ada and Wilson: Football fever all year round

41 State of the Arts: Diane E. Kaye, Paul McClain

15 World-class harness racing in the heart of Ohio Little Brown Jug, Delaware, Ohio

Family Life 16 Just love her…

Comfortable Living 22 The “New Normal” for security and interactive home technology 25 The Personal Home… from Start to Finish Part Three

Business Matters 26 Banking on Mechanics for 125 Years

Outdoor Living 40 Flying Squirrels: Ohio’s Nighttime Gliders

46 Two Arts are Better than One Doni and Burton Stahl

Interesting People 48 John Talbott: Renaissance Man

Health & Wellness 51 As life speeds up this fall, don’t neglect your health 53 Seniors Becoming More Technology Savvy

Money Matters 55 Integrate Retirement Planning with Charitable Giving

IN EVERY ISSUE 3 From the Editor 38 Milliron Everyday Heroes 57 Ask the Communication Coach

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

60 The Last Word

H ave you ever ha d a pa ran orm al ex pe rie nce ? Look for this image throughout the magazine to find out about our readers’ supernatural encounters.

FALL 2011

Answer the next featured question on Facebook.

Go to www.facebook.com/heartofohiomagazine to find the featured question. Submit an answer and it may be printed in a future issue of Heart of Ohio magazine. And while you’re there, be sure to our page to receive updates on future issues of the magazine.

When you invite your friends to one of these places, an uninvited guest might turn out to be the (after)life of the party.

Photo by Scott Sukel

A Haunting in Mansfield

Ohio State Reformatory If you drive by the Ohio State Reformatory frequently you may just take it for granted. After all, since construction began in 1886 it’s been there seemingly unchanged and unrelenting to the elements. Susan Nirode lived just north of Mansfield and drove by it every time she came into town. Intrigued and a little afraid of the structure, Susan says she only imagined it being in use during her lifetime, the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. “I never realized until I became Operations Manager that it had been open since the turn of the century,” she said. When she accepted the job in June of 2006 she soon understood how many lives the facility had touched and how it continues to capture the imagination of people from all walks of life today. When OSR closed in 1990 the old building sat empty, decaying at a rate that seemed to accelerate with every passing month. By 1995 a group of citizens, led by Dan Seckel, Virginia Imhoff, Bill McCarrick and Lydia Reid, formed the Mansfield Reformatory Preservation Society in an effort to save the amazing structure. The state leased the structure to the city, with ownership eventually passing to the Preservation Society by 2002. OSR is the largest castle like structure in Ohio, and one of only five in the whole country. It houses the tallest

free standing cell block in the world; 6 tiers, 12 ranges and 600 cells. The doors were opened to its first 150 young offenders in September 1896, and when it closed those doors on December 31, 1990 over 155,000 men had been in residence during its lifetime. 1998 was the first year of ghost hunts at OSR. They have grown in popularity over the last decade and for the 2011 season they were sold out by the middle of February this year. In addition, The Haunted Prison Experience tours added much needed money for repairs and restoration. This year the popular Halloween attraction runs from September 23rd to Halloween night, and is expected to attract over 40,000 to this season.

Like the Bissman Building, Ohio State Reformatory has been discovered by the television shows that feature haunted attractions. In 2000 the Travel Channel included OSR in 101 Things to do Before You Die; in 2001, the Fox Channel arrived to film The Scariest Places on Earth. 2004 saw a visit from TAPS ( for Sci-Fi Channel’s Ghost Hunters), and in 2008 the Travel Channel included the prison in the filming of The Most Terrifying Places on Earth. In 2009 Ghost Adventures visited and pronounced the place haunted; Travel Channel’s newest show, Paranormal Challenge, was filmed last spring and aired this past July. Manager Susan Nirode smiles as she says, “Sometimes I look out over the grounds from my office window and

www.heartofohiomagazine.com FALL 2011

Photo by Scott Sukel www.heartofohiomagazine.com 8

think, “I’m sitting here in a building named one of the most terrifying places in the world. How’s that for a one of a kind job?” Is there something paranormal going on at the prison? Susan thinks there is. “One evening we were locking up after a ghost hunt. I was standing at the end of E cell block with four volunteers, when we heard a loud “bang”. Paint chips fell from the second tier. We all looked to see who might be down there. I called out and got no answer, but we all saw a white figure lean out from the second tier. We carry radios, so I called to see if a volunteer might be up there, but everyone was outside the gift shop waiting for us to come out; there was no one else in the building,” she said. “It’s common to hear people talking in FALL 2011

hallways, the sound of music, or doors opening and closing when no one is around. East cell block in particular is active, and I have seen a hazy figure climbing the stars that are blocked off in that area. It dissipated as I watched.” Today OSR is the sight for many events. The beautifully renovated historic Central Guard Room is available for wedding receptions, parties, banquets, reunions, etc., and will seat 200 to 225 comfortably with a dance floor. The former warden’s dining room seats 20 to 40 comfortably and is perfect for conferences or smaller events. Future renovation may find increased parking in the rear of the building and restoration of the second floor warden’s quarters for more rental areas.

Joe James, a 17 year old senior at Clearfork High School, is one volunteer who has taken his dedication to OSR to the next level. After telling a friend about the place and taking him to see it, Joe decided to do a book for family and friends with details about how the original prison was run. His fascination with the buildings history and the self-sustaining system that kept it running evolved into an interesting story that he eventually published. “I was able to interview a former inmate about day to day life in the prison. It was interesting to learn how these men survived inside those walls,” Joe said. Some unexplained experiences began while volunteering during a local school prom that was being held in the Guard Room. “I was checking the area, making sure no one was wandering around in areas they weren’t supposed to be in, when I was struck on the calf of the leg by something small. It hit me with enough force to sting, and I was completely alone,” he said. Another creepy event really got his attention. “I worked an EVP (electronic voice phenomena) session, asking if anyone in that area could say my name. When we played the tape back there was a clear “Joe” in response. I’ve also been in areas where you can hear doors slam, but when you investigate there’s no one to be found.” James said. The Ohio State Reformatory: An Overview, by Joseph James, is available at Main Street books in downtown Mansfield, and at Barnes and Noble in Ontario, where a book signing will be held October 1, from five till seven p.m. The team featured on Travel Channel’s Eerie Paranormal will be making an appearance for the signing.

The prison is open weekdays for self-guided tours from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; guided tours are conducted on Sunday from 1:00 pm. to 3:45 p.m. For complete information on rentals and tours visit the website at: www.mrps.org.

The Bissman Building

thoughts, so Ellis contacted owner, Ben Bissman, for another walk-through a couple of weeks later. This time he approached the building with a feeling of dread. “It just felt different before I even got inside. There was heaviness, a stillness that was not of this world or something you can explain,” Ellis remembered. Ellis explained, “We took pictures and conducted EVP (electronic voice phenomena) sessions. Later, we discovered we had a little girl’s voice on our recorder, and I had experienced someone touching my hair. Although Ben Bissman was initially reluctant to discuss opening the building for tours, the evidence we gathered on that trip convinced him it was something he should do.” FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

The Bissman Building has held its place on North Main Street in downtown Mansfield since it was constructed in 1886, the same year and by the same builder who constructed the Historic Ohio State Reformatory. First a wholesale grocery business, the building was eventually used as a beer depot and finally, after being abandoned for many years, Pirate Printing moved in. The imposing structure eventually caught the eye of producers looking for movie locations, and The Bissman Building became the Brewer Hotel and the Portland Daily Bugle for the filming of Shawshank Redemption. In 2007, it was again leased to a major film production company for the production of The Dead

Matter, a vampire movie released in October 2010. Enter Ellis Byrd, founder of Gussethunters Promotions, and a paranormal enthusiast. “I was attending a race in Mansfield, and as we were heading back to Columbus we drove up through town, past the Bissman Building. I recognized it from Shawshank Redemption, and my friend and I stopped. There was a fellow working there for Pirate Printing and he allowed us to come in. I can honestly say I didn’t experience anything out of the ordinary that day. We walked around a bit, and other than being rather gloomy I didn’t get much in the way of impressions at all,” says Ellis. Although nothing exceptional happened that first trip, the Bissman Building simply would not leave his

In the three years since the Bissman Building opened for ghost tours it has become a resounding success. Paranormal groups from all over have come to gather information and experience the building, and Hollywood is no exception. Ghost Hunters, on the Sci-Fi Channel, TAPS, the popular paranormal series, and multiple episodes of “My Ghost Story” for the Biography Channel have gained national recognition for the building. A recent episode featured two local residents who claim to have been physically and psychically attacked during a ghost hunt, forcing them to be removed to their hotel rooms to recover. The testimonials from eye witnesses who’ve been there, done that, are plentiful when you visit the website: www.Bissmanbuilding.com. Visitors report everything from cold spots to footsteps, from disembodied voices to shadow figures, and full body apparitions

during their visits, and everything in-between. Owner, Ben Bissman, grew up playing in the old building and hearing the stories about things that had happened there from his grandfather. “My grandpa used to say, “don’t play around the elevator or you’ll end up like old man Simon”, and we were not sure what that meant. No one would reveal the story to young Bissman until many years later. It seems old man Simon stuck his head out into the elevator shaft and was decapitated. “My grandfather never let us forget that, and I wonder if Simon isn’t one of the former employees who still want to contact us,” said Ben. “I’ve had some odd experiences in that old building. One happened not long ago when I was in my office. I saw this man come around the corner downstairs and then just kind of faded down the steps. He had on a long duster, like a shop or trench coat, and had a dark

body. I ran down the steps to check the door, and it was locked. It was probably the freakiest thing that’s ever happened. Sometimes you can tell it’s just going to be one of those days.” Ben said. Gussethunters Promotions conducts tours locally of the Bissman Building, The Mansfield Fire Museum and The Renaissance Theatre for people to experience hauntings for themselves. They are all part of Haunted Mansfield, Ohio. Now housing Pirate Printing, the Bissman Building is owned by Ben and Amber Bissman, and located at 193 North Main Street in Mansfield. Tours and nighttime investigations may be arranged through the website. • Information and tour dates for the Haunted Mansfield locations (Malabar Farm, Mansfield Fire Museum, Ohio State Reformatory and Renaissance Theatre) are online at MansfieldTourism.com

“There was heaviness, a stillness that was not of this world or something you can explain.”

Let’s get aquainted!

Mid Ohio Automotive “We treat every vehicle as if our own family were the passengers. We use only quality parts, and treat every customer with respect. Come see why people keep coming back to Mid Ohio Automotive for their automotive repair shop!”

You’ll Love Our Service • • • • •

Shuttle home or to work (ask about a loaner car) Professional Diagnostic Equipment Preventative Maintenance Emergency Repairs High Quality Services & Repairs including:

FREE

CAR WA SH WITH A NY SERVIC E

4X4 Systems, Air Conditioning & Heating, Brake Service, Clutches, Chassis, Diagnostics, Engine Repair & Replacement, Exhausts, Oil Changes, Timing Belts, Tire Services, Transmission Services & Repairs and much more!

85 South Illinois Avenue, Mansfield, OH 44905 (419) 589-6203

Certified Service

HOURS: Monday – Friday | 8am – 5pm Saturday by Appointment

Check out our full range of services and schedule an appointment at midohioautomotive.com

Keeping Score with

Ada and Football fever all year round

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

When locals are asked to describe where Mansfield is in as few words as possible, most say that it’s midway between Cleveland and Columbus. Let me give you another Map Quest tidbit. Did you know that this city that I call home is not far from being midway between Canton, and Ada, Ohio. A very logical reply to such a statement would be, “so what does that mean?” If you know little or less than that about professional football, it would mean nothing. However, for anyone who has spent more than a few hours watching the NFL in person or on TV, it is very significant because it puts this city of 50,000 just about halfway between the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton and the Wilson Sporting Goods factory in Ada, where every NFL football that has been passed or punted in an NFL game since 1941 has been made.

Dan Riegel, Wilson factory manager FALL 2011

I took a ride to Ada a few weeks ago to visit the Wilson Football Factory. As I waited for Dan Riegel, the factory manager, to come out, I noticed the reception area was about the size of a walk-in closet, and I was sure Dan was not going to greet me in a Brooks Brothers suit with a silk tie and pocket square. I knew, without even meeting the first employee, this was a place where midwestern pride and workplace skills were more important than anything else. Dan took me back to his office, which was not a whole lot bigger than the entrance area, but within those four walls were pictures, posters, framed newspaper stories and a wide variety of, you guessed it, footballs. When I was covering sports for a living, I had many opportunities to interview famous and not so famous NFL players, sit through post game press

conferences and watch the games from field level. But as I sat there in Dan’s office, I found it hard not to just sit back and admire this amazing collection of football history with my mouth open and eyes glazed over. I thought, “This guy works in a gridiron shrine.” I did manage a short conversation with Dan before he invited me on a guided tour of the facilities where not only the official NFL footballs are made, but also where Pee Wee, Youth, Junior, High School and College footballs are produced too. The work is done by 130 employees who work four10-hour days a week. That group of workers, who average about 20 years of experience each, produces 4000 footballs a day and over 700,000 a year. Why footballs are referred to, by some, as a “pigskin” is puzzling since the hides come from cows (beef not dairy cows) and

it in about 15 seconds each. Emmitt is a 40-year employee. After going through several stages, including lacing and stitching, each NFL football is put through a final inspection. Each ball is inflated to 13 pounds and must weight between 14 and 15 ounces. If it does not meet those and other stringent standards it will never be used in an NFL game. If you are wondering whether the workers at the Wilson football factory in Ada are football fans themselves, the answer is “yes”, for the most part. They do all gather at the factory for the AFC and NFC championship games because once the Super Bowl participants are determined in those contests, the Super Bowl footballs with the names of the

Sharon Mullins, Wilson employee for 43 years Emmitt Lawrence, turning Wilson footballs for 4 decades

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

the NFL footballs are all made from Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas cows. The workers who turn the hides into game day footballs have a job life expectancy that is much longer than the careers of the average NFL player. If a pro-footballer’s career reaches double digits he is the exception not the rule. Many of the folks who make Wilson footballs in Ada have been at it for three and four decades. Sharon Mullins, one of the leather cutters, has worked at Wilson for 43 years. Emmitt Lawrence is a “turner”, one of the more physically demanding jobs in the shop in that he has to turn each NFL football inside out. From what I witnessed, it would take me the better part of a half hour and cost me three fingernails to turn just one ball. He does

participating teams have to be produced and sent to the site of the game within a couple of days. Dan Riegel has attended more than 20 Super Bowl games and usually takes about 15 other employees from the Ada factory with him. Those workers earn their trips by meeting and exceeding production goals throughout the year. While at the Super Bowl venues, the Wilson folks participate in the NFL Experience by showing visitors how the footballs are produced. How’s that for an incentive? It sure beats the two Salesmen of the Month plaques that I was awarded during my media career. Wilson also produces the “official” footballs for the NCAA, the Ohio High School Athletic Association and 26 other high school associations. The college and high school footballs are distinguished by the stripes around each end. Those used to be spray-painted on, now they are stitched on; just another step-up in quality designed to help Wilson keep their edge. Another very popular feature that has won over many high schools and colleges across the country is Wilson’s ability to add the schools name and logo to each football they order; personalize pigskins, if you will. Check out your favorite H.S. team this fall and see if they don’t have their own special imprint on the game balls. Ada is also home to Ohio Northern University and you know the footballs they use have their Polar Bear nickname imprinted beneath the laces, and those are made just a mile or so across town from where the ONU games are played. There is one former Polar Bear currently playing in the National Football League. That would be Jason Trusnik, a fourthyear linebacker with, coincidentally, the Cleveland Browns. Perhaps the biggest demand for NFL balls comes right around Super Bowl time when the fans of the two cities that are represented scramble to get replicas of game balls with their favorite team’s name stamped on them. According to Dan Riegel, Green Bay snapped up a huge number of Super Bowl XLV balls; probably because their favorites had not FALL 2011

MiGreps LLC Mike Greene Reps Media • Business Networking Project Consulting participated in the ultimate post season game in years. Denver is another city where demand was high when the Broncos were on top. Believe it or not, Steeler Super Bowl footballs are not as hot of an item as you would think. I suppose that’s because Pittsburgh has been to the “big show” so many times their fans have become a bit blasé about the accomplishment. But as Dan told me, he can’t wait until the Browns play in a Super Bowl because he thinks that Cleveland fans will break every record in his factory’s production history in an effort to acquire a Super Bowl ball. However, as a highly trained sports reporting professional, I feel compelled to advise you not to send your orders in just yet for that “Official Wilson Browns Super Bowl Football”. Let’s wait until they, at least, produce a winning season. •

cell 419.565.1249 bus 567.247.4736

P.O. Box 3822 Mansﬁeld, OH 44907 mike@migreps.com

www.migreps.com

ALL OF THE BEST OF MOHICAN IN ONE PLACE!

www.MohicanAdventures.com Located on St. Rt. 3 South, Loudonville OH 44842 Camp & Cabins: 888-909-7400 • Canoe & Fun Center: 800-662-2663

OUR GOLF RATES

Coolridge Golf Course & Diner welcomes you to a great breakfast. Lunch and Dinner Specials. Diner will be open year ’round. DINER HOURS

Mon – Fri 6AM to 8PM Sat & Sun 7AM to 8PM

9 holes w/ cart 18 holes w/ cart 9 holes walking 18 holes walking Senior Discount 591 Vonhoﬀ Blvd. Mansﬁeld, Ohio

$14.00 $19.00 $12.00 $15.00 $1.00 OFF 419-521-5159 Open 7:00AM – DUSK

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

www.halmaxfield.com

Mike Greene’s voice and face have been familiar to the sports fans of North Central Ohio for decades now. He did play-by-play for hundreds of high school and college football and basketball games over the years and still does selected Ashland University football games on television. He also hosted a popular SportsTalk show on WMFD-TV for a dozen years. FALL 2011

REAL ESTATE CO., INC.

INDIVIDUAL MEMBER

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE EXPERTS Hal Maxﬁeld, CCIM, SIOR President / Managing Broker halmaxﬁeld@earthlink.net

George Diez

Bret Gandee

Commercial REALTOR® Commercial REALTOR® georgediez@halmaxﬁeld.com bretgandee@halmaxﬁeld.com

380 N. Main St. • Mansfield, OH 44902

Local, out-of-county, out-of-state and out-ofcountry properties

419-524-0010

SPORTS & RECREATION

World-class harness racing in the heart of Ohio Little Brown Jug, Delaware, Ohio Manager of the Delaware County Fair and the Little Brown Jug, says this year’s race promises to be as exciting as ever and just a little different. “The Jug has only been won by a filly one time in its 65 year history, and that was in 1981. This year there is a very good chance we are going to see another filly in the race. The horse’s name is “See you at Peelers”, which is something the horse’s owners used to say as they left the barns after they had finished a race. Peelers is slang for a strip club,” Terry chuckled. See you at Peelers has already beaten the boys in one big race, and she promises to help make this year’s Jug memorable. The Little Brown Jug is without question the biggest single day sporting event in the area, drawing people not only to the Delaware fairgrounds where the live handle can reach over two million dollars, but to off track pari-mutuel betting centers that can boost the days totals to over four million dollars. Tom White has been the public relations person for The Jug for the last twelve years. Although he is semi-retired, he still handles publicity for LBJ, and writes feature articles for racing

magazines. From his home in Lexington, Kentucky, he spoke about The Jug with an enthusiasm that only a true lover of the sport can muster. “Anyone who’s in harness racing wants to win The Little Brown Jug. I’ve also discovered you can’t meet anyone from Ohio and mention that race but what they say, ‘Oh yes, I know about The Jug!’ It’s funny, but about a quarter to a third of the crowd attending the race is from Canada. The race is very popular there, and some very fine horses have come to The Jug from Canada, too. The Delaware race is very well known and well respected in the racing world.” There is no question that The Little Brown Jug has put Delaware on the map, and it is obvious that General Fair Manager Phil Terry takes pride in everything connected with the fair. His smile lights his face and he chuckles as he says, “Some people would say that The Jug is the Kentucky Derby of standard bred racing…but I say that the Kentucky Derby is the Little Brown Jug of thoroughbred racing.” For complete information on the Delaware County Fair and all it has to offer visit www.delawarecountyfair.com •

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

There is nothing quite like a county fair… tractor pulls and cake and flowers on display, quilts and junior fair exhibits, motor sports and livestock sales. The American classic form of entertainment for the whole family is still popular across the country. Here in the heart of Ohio, September 17th through the 24th will mark the 168th annual Delaware County Fair, but the thing that puts it in a class by itself is a full week of the greatest harness racing in the world. This year is the 66th year of the Delaware County Fair’s crown jewel, “The Little Brown Jug”. The Little Brown Jug is the signature race for three year old pacers, and has been run on the fastest half mile track in the world, right in Delaware, Ohio, since 1946. Horses and their entourages come from all over North America to compete in the race, and, for many, fair week serves as a racing community reunion. Preparation for running The Jug begins immediately, because a horse must be nominated at birth to compete in the race. As the animal matures that nomination must be renewed at the ages of two and three years. The Little Brown Jug only accommodates 30 horses; the best of the best of those nominated horses are selected based upon their lifetime earnings. To claim the $600,000 purse, a horse must win twice on the big day. Twenty two races are run during fair week, including the Jugette, featuring three year old fillies, the Winback Pace for aged horses, the Old Oaken Bucket for three year old trotters, and the Buckette for three year old filly trotters. I couldn’t find anyone who didn’t agree that Thursday is the most exciting day of the fair. That’s when upwards of 50,000 people converge on the fairgrounds to watch The Jug. Phil Terry, General

FALL 2011

FAMILY LIFE

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

… r e h e v o l t s u J

With clenched fists she stomped through the toddler years. Our daughter Katie was a courageous climber: up the stairs and out of a crib before she could walk, scrambling onto tables and kitchen counters. With a steel will, our determined daughter had no intention of conforming to the expectations of anyone, especially me. She insisted on wearing her socks inside out, and with arms crossed she sternly told me at the shoe store that I’d “be wasting money buying those shoes because I’m not going to wear them.” Katie scribbled precious, primitive notes to me, threatening to run away from a life made miserable by three bothersome big brothers. “But I know you’d miss me,” was her tender postscript. Some nights as I lay in bed, a sense of defeat enveloped me. I knew God should have the victory in this battle with Katie’s will. But I stubbornly thought that God fully trusted me to do the job. I cried to my husband Bill, “She baffles me; what should I do with her? Does she need more discipline, or less? Do I need to lighten up?” “Just love her” was his three-word cure. How his quick-fix annoyed me! To me, “just love her” was on a par with permissiveness. In my mind, Bill had the easier end of the loving deal. The revelry started after dinner each evening as four kids romped with dad in the family room. Diving off sofas and rolling in pillow piles, our children squealed with wild abandon as Bill led the charge through hours of fun. On the weekends, I gladly turned Katie over to Bill. Ashamedly, I derived some secret satisfaction when my husband’s calm demeanor was ruffled by our daughter’s emotional tidal waves. Now he knew what I was up against all week. Though tense with frustration, somehow he could muster up his motto

FALL 2011

and “just love her.” Her tears soon turned to giggles and I was left baffled. One Saturday night Bill’s love-cure was severely tested. As he filled our large tub with bubbles and bath toys, three-yearold Katie took her battle position. “Wash my hair? Make me!” She seemed to say. “Katie, your hair needs to be washed,” Bill told her firmly. He coaxed and teased to no avail. She would not be swayed by daddy’s usual tender tactics. Soon the scene escalated into one of thrashing arms, flying bubbles, dripping walls and one drenched daddy. Katie’s shrieks reverberated throughout the house. I hoped the neighbors couldn’t hear the commotion. Determined to subdue her and accomplish the task, Bill stripped off most of his clothing and climbed into the tub with our hysterical daughter. From my spot in the hall I soon heard not one, but two people crying. Katie’s howls mingled with the long, deep sobs of my husband. As I peered around the corner, I gasped to see the two of them a sopping, sobbing mass of intertwined bodies. At last, our little girl surrendered and leaned into her daddy, relieved to be controlled and comforted by his strength. I sighed with gratitude that I’d married a man with an amazing capacity to put

by Barb Haller

aside his frustration and intensely love our willful daughter. The moment reminded me that God never gives up on us. He weeps over our disobedience and waits to enfold us in his loving arms. He accepts us even when we are obstinate, screaming and thoroughly unlovable. God wants us to realize our utter helplessness and lean fully on his strength. Through our messiness and moping, our tirades and tantrums, he loves us. He just loves us. Katie is now in high school and her tantrums are a distant memory. God used my daughter’s willfulness to build in her the strength of character she needs to resist negative peer influences. We still have a few battles of the will, but in the end we both realize that God has the final say. The love that Bill poured into Katie must have filled her to the brim. It spills out as she calls from her room at bedtime, “G’night, Mom and Dad, I love you!” • Barb Haller is finding more time to write now that her four children are grown. Her hair turned gray in 2003 when all four kids were teenagers. Barb’s other pursuits include gardening, walking the dog, reading, travel and two sweet granddaughters. She and her husband Bill live in Delaware, Ohio.

Serving Delaware since 1993 with investment and wealth management strategies for individuals and businesses. (740) 363-7557 3769 Columbus Pike, Suite 130 (US 23 at Cheshire Rd) Delaware, Ohio www.hallerwealthmanagement.com

Robert T. Haller, Dena Haller Russell, Jeffrey D. Brooks

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC

If your patio doors stick, If your patio doors stick, squeak or leak, these could squeak or leak, these could take some getting used take some getting used to. to. If your patio doors have seen better days, it's time to If your patio doors have seen better days, it's time to replace them with Andersen® 400 Series Frenchwood® replace them with Andersen® 400 Series Frenchwood® hinged patio doors. Available in both inswing and hinged patio doors. Available in both inswing and outswing designs, they give you custom sizes, seven outswing designs, they give you custom sizes, seven hardware selections and your choice of pine, oak, hardware selections and your choice of pine, oak, maple or prefinished white interiors. With low-maintenance maple or prefinished white interiors. With ™low-maintenance exteriors and new High-Performance Low-E4™ glass, these exteriors and new High-Performance™ Low-E4™ glass, these doors are the perfect combination of beauty, convenience doors are the perfect combination of beauty, convenience and energy efficiency. and energy efficiency.

home & kitchen supply We’re building our future with you.

163 North Diamond St., Mansﬁeld, OH 44902 1-800-647-5514 | 419-526-3859 www.homeandkitchensupply.com andersenwindows.com andersenwindows.com

Discover the difference an Andersen patio door can make. Discover the difference an our Andersen patiotoday. door can make. Visit showroom Visit our showroom today.

Something Special A Unique Floral & Gift Shop

Ralph’s Joy of Living

VISIT

Crystal Traditions Watch Glass Blowing & Crystal Hand Cutting

Threads See the Latest Fashion Trends

Subtle Verse Visit www.subtleverse.com

Tiffin Glass Museum & Gift Shoppe History & Displays of Tiffin Glass

The Wax Shack Unique Handmade Candles

The Angelus Beautiful Religious Artwork & Giftware

TIFFIN’S

Frameworks Shadowbox Framing & Gifts

MLAD Graphic Design Services, LLC Graphic Design & Large Format Printing

4th Annual Art Show Sept. 10 • Jazzin’ Tiffin Sept. 10 • Holiday Happenings Nov. 5 & 6 • Tiffin Glass Collectors Show & Sale Nov. 5 & 6

FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Burns Electric We Have It All

www.tiffinlittleboxshops.com info@tiffinlittleboxshops.com 888-298-7236

e p i rec Decorating with a

for success

My maternal grandparents immigrated to the United States in the early 1900s from an area in the southern boot of Italy called Calabria. They raised a family of 10 children on little money, hard work and home-cooked food. I can close my eyes and see my grandmother standing in her kitchen with a big stock pot on the burner, fresh vegetables harvested from her tiny garden in the back yard, and braided garlic hanging from the ceiling beside the stove. To this day, I can still hear the “whack” of the handle of her knife as she would crush garlic and toss it into the pot of aromatic sauce bubbling on the stove in front of her. One thing I never remember seeing in her kitchen, however, was a recipe or cookbook. She was a “from scratch” kind of cook. A little of this, a little of that, take a taste, add more of that, then serve up an amazing meal that made you feel that Calabria, Italy was right outside the back door! If you have ever met me and have seen my fair skin, you wouldn’t know I come from an Italian family. Of course, not until you hear me, see me talking with my hands, or sit in my kitchen and watch me cook! I, too, am a “from scratch” cook just like my mother and grandmother were. I enjoy the discovery of taste that comes at the end of a cooking journey that got its inspiration from something spotted at the grocery store or some item about to “go bad” in the refrigerator. My cookbooks gather dust on the shelf from lack of use, and a recipe is never in sight on my counter. While cooking without a recipe is easy for me to do, designing and decorating kitchen remodeling projects requires thoroughly following a well thought out recipe for success for my clients who are ready for a culinary environmental change!

After

Many of my clients at Norwalk The Furniture Idea/McCready Interiors have decided that staying in their existing homes and updating their environments makes better sense for them rather that trying to sell or build. Kitchen remodeling has been at the top of their update lists, and I have been very busy over the last 24 months assisting them as they turn their outdated, sometimes broken-appliance

kitchens, into new and exciting hubs of cooking and entertainment delight. Remodeling a kitchen can be a daunting task! There are so many new AND expensive appliances on the market that one can be easily lured into adding dish drawers instead of dishwashers, free-standing icemakers along with ice in the door, latte machines that grind and froth instead of the traditional 8-10 cup

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Before

FALL 2011

After

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Before

coffeemakers, and refrigerators that take up entire walls. Double ovens, convection microwaves, and stock pot spigots by the stove (bet my grandmother would’ve loved that one!)… the list and the financial tally can go on and on! Then there are other decisions to be made. Flooring… vinyl, wood, or tile? Countertops… Formica, granite, quartz or how about concrete? Decorative backsplashes? Cabinets… raised panel, recessed panel, painted, stained or a combination of both? Kitchen layout… can I achieve the “perfect kitchen triangle” for optimal movement around my environment? The list can be endless and the budget can be blown quickly! So, that leads me back to my recipe for kitchen remodeling success. First, establish a vision for your new kitchen. Study kitchen magazines and use the internet to research a look that you want. Next, seek out the professionals. Hire an interior designer or kitchen designer to look at your existing room and help you decide if you are going to use the existing footprint or possibly reconfigure the space for a better layout. Once that is decided, employ a dependable contractor who will work quickly and efficiently to

FALL 2011

get the remodeling job done. Nobody wants to be without a kitchen any longer than they have to! And before anything is ordered, before any demolition work begins… ESTABLISH A BUDGET!!! Gather quotes for every aspect of the job, get out your calculator, and add up all those numbers. Only then will you know exactly what can stay on your wish list for the perfect kitchen. Finally, prepare yourself for the events ahead. There will be some pain to endure as you travel that remodeling road. But I always remind my clients that when everything is done, and they cook that first meal in their new, beautiful “heart of the home”, it will all be worth it! The photographs that you see around this article are of a recent remodel that I completed for a couple in Ashland, Ohio. They were willing to follow my recipe for remodeling success. They trusted me when I explained that a wall had to be removed in order to expand their area and create a better flow for their kitchen. They hired local contractor Dave Litt of Quality Woodworking and Construction, and My Floors by Prints and Paints, to handle the tear out and installation of their cabinets, countertops, and flooring.

Powell Supply in Mansfield and The Olde Parsonage and Home Hardware in Ashland assisted with plumbing fixtures, lighting and appliances. My clients allowed me to guide them through the arduous task of choosing product, picking colors, and all of the other decisions that needed to be made in order for the project to flow both aesthetically and financially. In the end, they were thrilled

with their new kitchen and look forward to spending time there, cooking for their family and friends. Whether or not they decide to cook those meals from “scratch” or follow a recipe from one of their cookbooks, I am confident that they will prepare their meals with the peace of mind in knowing they followed a great recipe for decorating success!

If my grandmother were still around to see that kitchen, I’m pretty sure I would hear her say in her native Italian… BRAVISSIMO!! •

Julie McCready and husband Tom own Norwalk The Furniture Idea/ McCready Interiors in Mansfield, Ohio. McCready, along with a staff of talented designers, provide residential, commercial and remodeling design services along with quality, affordable furniture for the entire home.

HOURS M & F 10-8 Tu, W, Th & Sa 10-6 Su 1-5

N. Lex-Springmill Rd., Mansfield LOCAL

419.747.7055

TOLL FREE

888.262.7632 FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Fashionable. Affordable. Residential/Commercial Design

COMFORTABLE LIVING

The “New Normal” for security and interactive home technology

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

by brian schmidt, V.P. business development, Schmidt Security Pro Do you remember when you used to dial a rotary phone when calling someone? When was the last time you popped in a cassette tape to listen to music, or walked to a bookshelf and picked up an encyclopedia to figure out what type of mysterious bug you found in your garage? How about the last time you manually cranked up a car window? Do these statements conjure up recollections of activities that used to be part of our daily lives, and somehow faded into distant memories? We now have a “New Normal” standard for each of these actions. We just speak a person’s name into our smartphone and the number is dialed. That same smartphone stores and plays thousands of songs. We go to Google to find out what kind of bug that is, and the car window goes up and down with the push of a button. The same is happening in the world of security and home technology. We used to think of a security system as a pretty simple concept…we punch in a code on a keypad when we leave the house or go to bed to turn the system on. We do the same thing when we get home or wake up in the morning. Hopefully the alarm never sounds… for any reason! Home security systems are quickly evolving into “Interactive Lifestyle Systems” that we interact with for many different reasons, and our smartphones and computers are now becoming the standard way in which we do this. These interactive systems send mom and dad a text message when kids get home from school to let them know they’ve arrived safely. The system can also send a 10 second video clip so mom and dad know how many friends are following them in the door! If mom forgot to set the alarm or even lock the door when she left for work in the morning, there’s no need to turn

FALL 2011

around and go back… she can just click an easy to use application on her smartphone and the system will set the alarm and lock the doors. This same interactive platform will also turn the thermostat down and the lights off when everyone leaves the house, offering real energy savings to the homeowner. These features are also ideal for a vacation home. It wasn’t too long ago that a new custom home — and many, many thousands of dollars — were required in order to have these features. Today, the technology is primarily wireless and is designed for retrofit applications in existing homes. The technology has tremendous battery life and is very easy to use. The equipment cost has come down significantly from where it was just a few years ago. A small monthly fee includes the text notifications, the interactive web interface, video live viewing and storage, as well as alarm monitoring with secure cellular communications. Things are moving fast in the world of home technologies… are you ready to embrace the “New Normal”? • Brian Schmidt is Vice President of Business Development with Schmidt Security Pro in Mansfield. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Electronic Security Association of Ohio, and is a member of the Pro Advisory Group for GE Security.

“ Shortly after my Mother passed away I told my sister I wished Mom would send me a sign that she is alright. Being a gardener I thought a blue butterfly would be appropriate. The next day, as I went out to work in the garden, there was a blue butterfly sitting on a flower. It didn’t move, didn’t fly away. I had never seen one before, but I continue to see them frequently years later .” Marion D. Mansfield

SAFE. SECURE. SCHMIDT.

Schmidt Security Pro

Offering the latest security and safety systems to protect your home, business and most importantly, your family.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE SYSTEMS (ERS) FIRE EQUIPMENT & INSPECTIONS INTEGRATED CCTV & ACCESS CONTROL RESIDENTIAL SECURITY

Local and trusted since 1976.

www.schmidtsecurity.com

Toll Free 866.526.4747 | Mansfield 419.526.4747 Wooster 330.263.4747 | Mt. Vernon 740.393.4747 Ashland 419.281.1717 | Marion 740.387.4747

Schmidt Security Pro : 241 Mansfield Industrial Parkway Mansfield, Ohio 44903 6481 Kinney Road Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050

“ One night I woke to my dog barking hysterically. I went into the kitchen to find a raccoon had come in through the doggie door and was ransacking the place! I shooed him out the door with a broom. I was grateful to my faithful boxer for waking me, even though he had died three weeks before. ” Jerry P. Lexington

www.heartofohiomagazine.com FALL 2011

DEER RIDGE GOLF CLUB chose Jamison Well Drilling to help beautify their greens. The water drilling for the irrigation system was a necessity for the lush look and feel of the beautiful golf course.

Jamison Well Drilling, Inc.  Water Well Drilling

 Water Tanks

 Geothermal Drilling

 Water Softeners

419.524.8560 | ASHLAND 419.289.8560 800.606.8560 258 Central Ave. | Mansfield, Ohio 44906 www.jamisonwelldrilling.com

MANSFIELD TOLLFREE

The Personal Home… from Start to Finish between client and architect. Now discussions will involve selections of materials like flooring, siding and windows, and systems, including electrical, mechanical and plumbing. Here is where the architect can best steer his client into relevant green building techniques. Here, too, is where budget discussions intensify. The client’s tastes and selections can drive costs, and it is important to have the experienced guidance of their architect. These all important final drawings provide the contractor with a complete portfolio of information. Contractors need to know more about the house they will build than just foundations, walls and floors. They are charged with providing and installing hardware, skylights, thermostats and smoke detectors. By necessity the drawings have to show every square inch of the client’s media center, or the gourmet kitchen… perhaps even the safe room in the basement. Every small detail is important to eliminate mistakes and prevent cost escalations that inevitably happen when work must be redone. Finally the completed plans have to be sufficiently thorough for securing the proper building and zoning permits. With the drawings finished, it’s time to find our builder. Most architectural firms have a ready list of experienced home builders that they have worked with in the past and are comfortable recommending to clients, but it is also important to know if the client has qualified names to take into consideration. At our firm, we invite the builders, distribute drawings, conduct necessary meetings at the site and set a bid-due date. The day of the bid opening is exciting as we sit down with the client to open sealed bids, intent upon finding the best low bidder. Low is obvious, best is a mix of many ingredients: time of construction, experience, size of the crew, and importantly, the chemistry a client

may have as they become acquainted with the builder. The culmination of bidding will be a collage of financial arrangements, permits and a thorough, but uncomplicated, contract. Many firms, ours included, prefer an AIA document for this purpose. In its most basic terms, the contract sets the builders scope of work, the price for that work, and the time frame. Construction: the long awaited process when the design and drawing become three dimensional and real. This is still a very exciting for me, and I hope for the clients. No matter how many homes we’ve done, when the ground is opened up and starts to yield the shapes and forms of our design, it’s a wonderful feeling of discovery and satisfaction. We like to have meetings at the site with our clients to make sure this feeling gets translated to them. Most architects will inspect the construction process on both a regular (scheduled basis) and irregular basis. Some decisions can be made on the phone, but most are field directed. At the end of each month contractors present their invoices to the architect for the completed work. The architect will review the numbers and sign off his approval for the client’s bank to process. We like to install a retainage (usually 8%) which will accumulate till the final draw, thus insuring some leverage for the owner to get a list of final items completed. When the work is completed the architect and client will walk thru the finished dwelling, making sure everything is in order. The architect will make sure that the contractors work is guaranteed for up to one year. The long project is done, and from the volume of drawings, the hours of meetings and the long hours of work a home is born. After that… well, I’m always available if a client has concerns or needs additional help. That’s what an architect is all about. •

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

From Tim Alexander, the final installment on building a home with an architect Final drawings… the documents that are the bridge from the preliminary design the client has fallen in love with, to a finished dwelling that is the shelter for their dreams of enjoying their specific lifestyle. By now the architect has crafted the magazine clippings, the favorite photos, the written and verbal wishes of his client, into a carefully perfected design. While still a preliminary footprint, this design has become a profile of the client that still respects the site and their budget. This next phase is all about the architect’s blue prints, which, in the twenty first century, are anything but blue and usually produced as a computer generated package. While our firm turns out all commercial projects on computer, we still like to hand draw residences whenever possible to allow us to keep our creative juices flowing during the construction document process. Construction drawings are the means by which preliminary designs morph into “pictures” of the home’s final form. Walls, doors, windows, heating, plumbing, electrical, material selections… where will we have carpet? Where do we want wainscot? Should we use steel or wood to span long distances, and how much insulation is enough? What is the detail required to properly waterproof the foundation built into a hillside with prolific springs? And on and on… Someone once said there are 10,000 decisions that must be made to design and build a home, and I believe that to be true. Three hundred or so homes into my career I know that most clients will trust their architect to make most of these decisions, but it is an awesome task made easier by experience and a well-developed bond between client and architect. During the final drawing process, which will necessarily take a number of weeks or months, meetings continue

e e r h t t r pa

FALL 2011

BUSINESS MATTERS

Banking on Mechanics for 125 Years by kristi m. lord, director of marketing, Mechanics Bank

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

The year is 1886. The world is certainly different. The Statue of Liberty is dedicated. Grover Cleveland is President. Coca-Cola is introduced in Atlanta. The first car earns a patent. And Mechanics Bank opens its doors to the public. First named “Mechanics Building & Loan Company”, the business was founded with $60,000 in assets and operated from a private office just two evenings a week. In 1913, Mechanics Building & Loan moved to the May Building at 30 South Park Street in downtown Mansfield. Following four interim locations, the bank opened its permanent headquarters on September 23, 1926 at the location of 2 South Main Street where it remains today and is now Mechanics Bank. Five additional offices have been added in Richland County since that time, with the newest at Trimble Road in 2009. In the span of 125 years, Mechanics grew from a part-time operation to a household name. The bank survived economic downturns, recessions and even the Great Depression. In a time when bank mergers and buyouts were as common as the sun setting each day, Mechanics chose to remain independent. Mechanics now stands as the only remaining home-owned bank in Richland County. While the history of Mechanics is interesting in itself, what really makes its 125 years special is one thing, and one thing only — people. 125 years is certainly worth celebrating but Mechanics isn’t just observing the passing of time. Instead they are honoring years of building relationships with loyal customers, generations of customers — all whom have made 125 years possible. All whom at one time or another referred to Mechanics with the phrase “That’s My Bank” — a phrase that says so much. And for the current 114 employees at Mechanics, celebrating a milestone anniversary has its share of excitement. Those who work there will tell you that what they do is more about people than it is about banking. The bank’s guiding principle “It’s All about People” conveys it best. So now the year is 2011. The Statue of Liberty still stands tall. Coca-Cola is the world’s most popular soft drink. On the road are hybrid and fuel-alternative cars. And Mechanics Bank yet again opens its doors to the public and for this hometown bank, 125 years is more than enough to celebrate. •

(Top to bottom): In 1913, Mechanics Building & Loan Company served customers in the May Building at 30 South Park Street. On September 23, 1926, Mechanics Building & Loan Company opened its permanent location at 2 South Main Street in Mansfield where the Main Office remains today. The sixth office opened in June 2009 and is locaed on Trimble Road in Mansfield. Outside the front steps of the Main Office in downtown Mansfield.

FALL 2011

MATTRESS & FURNITURE 35 TO CHOOSE FROM

★ QUALITY NAME BRANDS FOR EVERY ROOM IN THE HOUSE ★

THREE GREAT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! 1534 Ashland Road, Mansfield, OH 44905 Phone: 419-589-5646 • Fax: 419-589-0354 305 South Gay Street, Mount Vernon, OH 43050 Phone/Fax: 740-392-5646 2437-A Back Orrville Road, Wooster, OH 44691 Phone/Fax: 330-345-5646

LEATHER GALLERY

• WHITE DOVE MATTRESSES • YOUTH FURNITURE • Made in Cleveland, OH since 1922 • Bunk Beds • Innerspring • Futons • Memory Foam • Day Beds • Latex • Roll Aways • Adjustable Bases • POWER SOFAS, POWER • LEATHER GALLERY RECLINERS & POWERLIFT CHAIRS • LIVING ROOM GROUPS • GIFT IDEAS • RECLINERS • Rockers • DINETTES & • Lamps DINING ROOM GROUPS • Occasional Tables

WWW.JOHNNYSMATTRESS.COM

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE!

419.589.8618 Tree Removal Stump Grinding Pruning After-storm Cleanup John V. Herrick, Owner Licensed & Insured

FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

70 LIVING ROOM GROUPS

Quality Tree Service

Community Development: The Key to Recovery and Growth

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Recognizing the community need for a regional business center, North Central State College has announced plans for the Ralph Phillips Conference Center at the Kehoe Center in Shelby. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Kehoe Center is at the heart of one of the most exciting new business development projects in north central Ohio,â&#x20AC;? College President Donald Plotts said. The stately three-story building was formerly the headquarters of The Shelby Mutual Insurance Co. Now a North Central State College facility, it offers manufacturing training in engineering, automation and physics.

FALL 2011

“The College’s Kehoe Center is at the heart of one of the most exciting new business development projects in north central Ohio. The Ralph Phillips Conference Center will not only complement adjacent Technology and Innovation Park but will become a major tool for regional economic development. Chris Harris, Foundation Executive Director.

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

The exciting new project will be accomplished in two phases: Phase 1 ($1.5 million) includes the third floor renovation of the large meeting/banquet room, with central hallway and the remodeling of the interior side entrance to Kehoe’s first floor. Phase 2 ($1 million) includes the renovation of the building’s third floor corporate suite, offices and storage rooms to become an exhibit hall, breakout rooms, business facilities center, boardroom and large meeting room spaces. The College’s Conference Center project was on a back burner until its College Foundation received a gift of $750,000 from the family of the late industrialist, Ralph Phillips. With the Conference Center on the fast track, Mr. Phillips’ family is continuing with his plans for a Technology and Innovation Park where tenants would work closely with North Central State College for training, personnel, and research and development needs. “This Conference Center project, just like the Urban Center, is exactly what we need in our region to help jump start our local economies with advancements in education and business development. The Urban Center, in downtown Mansfield, has been an inspirational catalyst for downtown renovation and growth, and we are already adding more space for classes there,” Don Plotts said. For the Conference Center, the North Central State College Foundation will raise $750,000 over the next year that, when combined with the recent gift of $750,000, will fund Phase 1 of the project. Fundraising for Phase 2 will be conducted as part of a special campaign commencing in 2013. • All images are artist renderings. FALL 2011

The Wine List

Relax an

Cyp

nd enjoy a glass of wine at these area wineries and vineyards.

press Hill Winery Rear 37 East Fourth Street Mansfield, Ohio This is a true wine cellar where the tasting room is situated in the midst of a working winery.

419.295.2142 www.cypresscellars.com Thu, Fri, Sat 4pm – 10pm

Al-Bi Winery 29 North Smith Street Dellroy, Ohio The winery on Atwood Lake. Medalwinning wines at wine competitions.

330.735.1061 330.735.2856 fax Mon – Fri 5pm – 8pm / Sat 10am – 9pm

ino Where You Live 6400 Newark Road Mount Vernon, Ohio Changing minds one glass at a time…

740.397.9463 www.vinowhereyoulive.com Wed & Thu 6pm – 10pm Fri & Sat 3pm – 10pm

Shamrock Vineyard 111 County Road 25 Waldo, Ohio (Cardington for GPS) Est. 1984. Tours, host private parties, wine tasting, RSVP events, bring a picnic.

740.726.2883 www.shamrockvineyard.com Mon – Sat 1pm – 6pm / Closed Sundays We arrange hours for special functions.

Troutman Vineyards & Winery 4243 Columbus Road Wooster, Ohio Family-owned in Wayne County. Opened June 2001. Events include wine festivals & tastings, live music.

330.263.4345 www.troutmanvineyards.com Hours vary by season. Call ahead for schedule.

The Winery at Wolf Creek 2637 South Cleveland-Massillon Road Norton, Ohio Wine, romance & a view for Miles… Established 1980.

330.666.9285 www.wineryatwolfcreek.com Sun – Thu 12noon – 9pm Fri & Sat 12noon – 11pm

Locavore Locapour

From field to fork and vineyard to wineglass

Locavore, the movement toward eating seasonal, locally grown foods, is gaining momentum. Here are three examples of taking it to the next level.

Table

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Sometimes you make an amazing find: a place or product that is the culmination of a great deal of experience and hard work. If you travel to Millersburg and visit Table, a restaurant where you will have one of those experiences. Kent Welsh has been a chef for over seventeen years. After training at the Culinary Institute of Montpelier, Vermont

FALL 2011

and obtaining a degree in nutrition from Marquette University, Kent set out to see the world. His career experience has embraced training staff in the kitchens of the Ritz Carlton, opening restaurants for Wolfgang Puck, cooking in the Napa Valley, as well as for the Emmy and Grammy ceremony dinners.

“Working all over the world, absorbing different cultures and cuisines, creating themes and menus for the most amazing restaurants, has given me a richness of experience to bring to my own place,” Kent explained. Born and raised in the CantonMassillon area, Kent and his wife, Saren, returned to open a restaurant in Millersburg to be close to Kent’s Mother, who is in failing health. “I wanted this time with my Mother, and to be here to help my Dad as much as possible. We came home for a visit, drove by a farm and bought it sight unseen. The farm and Table are intertwined because they represent the vision for our future here,” Kent said. As a nutritionist Kent has strong feelings about food and the food chain. “So much of what we eat in America is just poison. The way meat is produced is especially bad, but vegetables and fruit are equally tainted. We follow organic practices at the farm to bring to our customers the freshest and healthiest produce, herbs and edible flowers,” Kent said. Kent and Saren Welsh have a longterm vision that includes raising all the vegetables and meat for the restaurant, but it’s more than just supplying delicious

cuisine that drives this couple. Kent explains their plan this way, “We want to work with troubled kids at the farm, creating a place they can go to as an alternative to a juvenile correction facility. Working with these kids to raise food and care for animals can instill values, responsibility and an “I can do it” attitude. The food raised will supply the restaurant; in turn the restaurant will finance the work with the kids. The circle of life and caring is what we want to establish, not just a business. We need to create a place where these children find enough room to fail and enough room to succeed.” A good idea that has produced a great restaurant, Table offers fresh baked breads, salads, sandwiches, desserts and delicious dinner menus that delight the senses. Experience this gourmet restaurant nestled in Millersburg soon. Table 149 East Jones St. Millersburg Ohio, 44654 Phone: (330)674-0023 www.tablegroovyfood.com

149 E. Jones Street Millersburg 330-674-0023 www.tablegroovyfood.com

Ask Joe Nagy, Owner/Operator of The Mill Street Bistro Bar in Norwalk, what sets his menu apart from other restaurants and he will tell you, “Quality is our secret ingredient”. Originally from Cleveland, Joe has worked and traveled the world. He has cooked in the kitchens of famous hotels and restaurants in the US, and restaurants in Europe, as well as being a restaurant consultant. All his experiences never changed the fact that he has a love of the Lake Erie islands, so he came back to build homes on Kellys Island and businesses in the area he enjoys so much. Joe brought his accumulated experience and his drive for perfection, to Norwalk to open The Mill Street Bistro Bar. The Mill Street Bistro Bar is known not just for quality, but for unique offerings like the elk medallions on the menu. The restaurant meats, buffalo, steer, chicken, turkey, Cornish game hens and elk are raised at River Ranch; sitting on the Huron River with a small boat & dock, the farm is Joe’s quiet, but busy, retreat away from the Bistro. Fish are farm raised and fresh from Blue Ribbon Fish Processing. Produce is purchased locally from The Culinary Vegetable Institute/Chefs Garden. “The Mill Bistro Bar is a fine dining experience. We do not have daily “specials”, our features change with the season and the crops. Everything is local, sustainable and renewable, and we offer our customers the finest cuisine and service. Producing our own dry aged, beef, buffalo and elk, fresh fish and fowl, and buying local produce is definitely not the easy way to do things. It’s simpler to just wait for the big truck to pull up to the back door, and the majority of restaurants don’t want to be inconvenienced by the demands of procuring quality,” Joe explained. His believes his dedication to serving locally produced foods is a trend whose time has come. “The rising cost of food globally will continue to be a motivating factor for people to start raising gardens and buying locally produced foods. I think this trend will also be healthier for people as we go back to a more affordable and healthier food chain in the local restaurants they choose.” The Mill also offers a wine list that is second to none. “We offer wines by the glass or by the case from an eclectic wine list, and we offer regional wines,” Joe explained. The Mill Street Bistro Bar is a delightful evening whether you’re having dinner, or attending the monthly wine or beer tasting events. For more details about Mill Street Bistro Bar, and the historic 1847 mill that houses it, visit the website: www.millstreetbistrobar.com

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

TABLE is a voice in the movement towards real food — food that is alive from the garden, TABLE’s own farm, locally and sustainably farmed. TABLE, where impeccable training and the love of hospitality meet HOURS ranks: Come!

Mill Street Bistro Bar

Tues – Thurs: 11 - 2:30pm L 4:30 - 7pm D Fri: 11 - 2:30pm L 4:30 - 8pm D Sat: 4 - 9pm D

FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Ohio Wines… a growing success The word ‘Locavore’ has been around for a number of years. It refers to folks who consume food products grown within a couple hundred miles of their residence. It is a ‘hot’ and ‘trendy’ term. That term is now being joined by a ‘cousin’ vocabulary word: Loca pour. Locapour is being used nationally by restaurateurs, wineries and wine lovers generally to encourage the pairing of locally grown wines with locally grown foods. It is a wonderful phenomenon for the regional wine industry — but even better for the local economy. As our wineries grow, we are bringing jobs, tourist dollars, farmland preservation, capital investments in lodging and transportation services and we are helping to establish a positive ‘quality of life’ image which supersedes some outdated and not so complimentary representations of our communities. A great deal is happening to support and encourage the expansion of local wine and food pairings. Our Ohio Department of Agriculture’s Ohio Grape Industries Program (a sister to our privately funded Ohio Wine Producers Association) has established a vineyard expansion program to help underwrite the considerable costs of vineyard establishment. While the dollars are very limited and the number of vines in the ground under this project are still small, the interest among potential growers has been great. As the economics of ‘local’ wine and grapes becomes more obvious, we will surely watch many others take advantage of the trends and expand additional plantings. That same OGIP committee is in its third year of promoting Ohio grown wines through a program called Ohio Quality Wines. Bottles so labeled must contain 90% Ohio grown fruit and are eligible for special promotions and marketing opportunities. Beginning in 2010 and continuing through midsummer this year, state wide television and restaurant promotion campaigns are showcasing the

FALL 2011

OQW wines. On many restaurant menus, these are being paired with locally produced meats and vegetables. At Vintage Ohio 2011 four of Cleveland’s very trendy ‘Food Trucks’ (with the local gourmet cuisine features) will be offered a select number of entrees that were carefully paired with award winning Ohio wines on festival field. On the locally produced food, the development of CSA’s [Community Service Agriculture] complements what all of us are trying to accomplish. These farmers service hundreds of subscribers with fresh fruits and vegetables all summer long. Several wineries across the state are ‘pick up points’ for these local growers. When those bags of farm-totable goodies are taken home from the winery site, lots of bottles of wine fill bags going out the doors. Internationally, the idea has been fed by the ‘agri-tourism’ and ‘culinarytourism’ trends. The Italians launched what they call the ‘Slow Food’ movement a number of years ago. Eric Long of Portland created the ‘International Culinary Tourism Federation in 2002. Nearly every recent North American tourism conference has hosted an ‘agri-tourism’ expert. The concepts of Locavore and Loca-pour fit perfectly to Ohio’s situation. We have a large population base, lots of wineries, an emerging number of ‘creameries’ (cheese producers) an

innovative agricultural community (like Cover Bridge Gardens CSA in Ashtabula County) a supportive Department of Agriculture [including Ohio Proud] and all the other necessary elements to take this ‘trend ‘ and make it our own. So the opportunity at hand: local wines, local foods — a win-win for all. Email dwinchell@OhioWines.org for more information. •

where caring is key

TEAMRick & Karen RIEGEL Rick Riegel

“SELL”: (419) 565-7541 RickRiegel@haringrealty.com

Karen Riegel

“SELL”: (419) 565-8999 KarenRiegel@haringrealty.com

1180 L e xington Ave nue • M ans fie ld • Ohio • 4490 7

a large Visit us to enjoy wines, selection of Ohio unique as well as many around fine wines from the world.

Munhcat yhouiceraves! We have w

460 Biscayne Drive

We oﬀer a wide variety of Ohio wines, unique ﬁne wines from around the world and craft beers. Stop by and see us or check out our website for upcoming wine & beer tastings and scheduled bus trips to local wineries.

(corner of SR 430 E. & Biscayne Dr.)

Mansﬁeld, OH 44903 419-589-9321 2440 Lexington Ave, Mansﬁeld, Ohio 44907

419.884.1993 www.waynescountrymarket.com

Catering to Your Taste! Located At The Brown Derby Road House

Send a tasty message to clients or friends! • Holiday Greetings • Thank You Gifts • Congratulations

Our Professional Staff will create the Perfect Event! Complete Catering and Banquet Service from 25 to 1,500 guests.  Wedding Receptions  Rehearsal Parties  Bridal Showers  Creative Customized Menus  On & Off Premise Catering  Special Events

Cakes, Cookies, Teas & more…

837 Lexington Ave. Mansfield 419.525.2868

www.eatmorbundt.com

419-529-2959

3985 Park Ave. West - Ontario Email: staff@ontarioeventcenter.com For more information visit our website www.ontarioeventcenter.com

FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

1. Choose the treat 2. Send us your gift list 3. Tell us when to ship

Thanks fo r Voting u s the Best!

“ Since my father passed away I sometimes see someone sitting in his chair out of the corner of my eye. When I look, there is no one there but I feel his presence with me in the room.” Robert S. Mansfield

Trust Services

On your terms. With the Investment & Trust Group at Richland Bank, we provide service, we are not just another client center. We provide investment and retirement services designed for your unique situation.

Let’s talk! Charla Irvin

INVESTMENT & T R U S T

Vice President & Trust Officer

G R O U P

facebook.com/richlandbank

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

The entire month ll of October is a fa visitors celebration that re of all ages are su to enjoy!

Enjoy countless fun fall activities, such as our straw maze, rope swing, large slides & zip line during our hours of operation. Available on weekends: fun house, balloon pumpkin & hay rides! Book us for a school outings from preschool through 3rd grade. FALL 2011

Join us for our annual Kids Night Saturday October 22 6pm – 9pm 2440 Lexington Ave, Mansfield, Ohio 44907

419.884.1993 www.waynescountrymarket.com

“… a place where families gather to imagine and discover together in quiet corners and wide open creative spaces.”

44 West Fourth Street, Mansfield

419-522-2332 www.littlebuckeye.org Open Thur 10-5, Fri & Sat 10-8, Sun 1-5

3rd Anniversary Sale August 29 – September 10 All spring and summer clothing priced at $1 per piece! Jeans and formal wear excluded.

We choose Richland County

Store Hours Monday – Friday Saturday

10am – 5pm 10am – 3pm

What Goes ‘Round Thrift Shoppe is filled with an eclectic mix of donated items, including clothing and accessories, shoes, jewelry, bridal attire, furniture, household goods, small appliances, and more! All proceeds from the store benefit Hospice of North Central Ohio.

113 North Main Street, Mansfield, Ohio 44902

419.522.2890

Dr. D.B. ‘Zoon’ Nguyen and Gulimina Mahamuti Music brought Dr. D.B. “Zoon” Nguyen and Gulimina Mahamuti together, but it’s a love of Richland County that kept them here. “We stayed at the Country Inn and Suites and visited Kingwood Center. The hills and scenery in Richland County are so beautiful,” Guli said. Zoon earned his undergraduate degree with honors at Harvard and his MD and a PhD from Dartmouth and now leads Mansfield Radiation Oncology department at MedCentral/Mansfield Hospital. The couple frequents nearby attractions like Pleasant Hill where they had their first Ohio picnic, and “Shawshank Redemption,” film locations. Gulimina (and her China family) can’t believe she lives near its film location at the Mansfield Reformatory. They’re also grateful that Columbus and Cleveland are close, especially since Guli makes the trip south on 71 nearly every day, but they are pleased that this area boasts its own symphony orchestra and many cultural venues.

They choose Richland County for its fields and forests, professional communities and cultural opportunities.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY RICHLAND COUNTY MEDIA OUTLETS

Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow.

Main Library • Butler • Bellville Crestview • Lexington • Lucas Madison • Ontario • Plymouth

www.mrcpl.org

Vision Statement To enhance the lives of citizens & visitors through the benefits of looking locally first; to develop the local economy and establish more pride in our community. For more information contact: Jeff N. Kent, Swan Cleaners, 419.524.2611

FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

The possibilities are endless at your Library.

everyday submitted by Pastor Edward Colegrove Edison Enterprise Baptist Church

On the Road Again

Front (Left to right): Pat Clark, Bill Clark, Earl Smith and Ryan Jones Back: Abram Colegrove, Pastor Ed Colegrove, Terry Kinsey and Aaron Wilcox

EEBC Garage Ministry

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

In 2003, the Edison Enterprise Baptist Church (EEBC) in Edison, Ohio, bought property adjacent to the church building. On the property was a garage, and some of the men of the church felt that building could be put to good use. That was the beginning of the EEBC Garage Ministry. This group, consisting of the Pastor and some volunteers, meets every Thursday from sun up until sun down to repair cars for those who cannot afford to pay for the work. As many as 15 cars are often repaired on any given Thursday. Pastor Ed Colegrove says, “The Lord has richly blessed our efforts. We have been fortunate to receive an overhead lift, tire changer and computer diagnostic tool to help in the repairs.” The opening of a second bay is in the works. Repairs range from the simple oil and tire changes to more difficult jobs, like clutch, exhaust and brake replacement. The only things this crew doesn’t tackle are engine and transmission replacements. The ladies of the church have started their own ministry preparing food for the

hard working repairmen each Thursday, and they raise funds through a yearly garage sale to support the ministry. Anyone is welcome to use the ministry. The church asks only that the person pay for parts; labor is no charge. Donations to the program are gratefully accepted, and many who use the service support them with generous donations.

Not pictured: Shirley Klaiber and Brandon Gonzalez

“We have been able to help many people through the years, and it blesses us as much as it blesses them,” said Pastor Colegrove. • Edison Enterprise Baptist Church 3055 West St. Rt. 95, Edison, Ohio Church: 419-947-7231 Pastor Colegrove: 419-560-0870

Milliron Industries and Heart of Ohio magazine understand that we all know heroes. They are the people who have displayed courage or leadership in an effort to benefit others. We need your help to tell their stories by introducing your hero to the readers of Heart of Ohio magazine. The nominees for “Everyday Heroes” are a person or group of people who have shown their selflessness in one or more of the following ways: (1) Led the way to correcting a hardship or injustice; (2) Overcome adversity and by example has helped others do the same; (3) Served the country and/or community above and beyond normal expectations. Nominees must live in the heart of Ohio and be willing to have their story and picture in the magazine, on the website, and in the offices of Milliron Industries. Email your story to: editor@heartofohiomagazine.com or send to: Heart of Ohio magazine, P.O. Box 1406, Mansfield, Ohio 44901 FALL 2011

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER is here for Small Business Owners * Free Services include: Counseling, Seminars & Workshops, QuickBooks/ProAdvisor Assistance, Business Plan Development, And More

To learn more visit www.mtc.edu/sbdc, email Kathy Goon at goonk@mtc.edu or call 740.389.4636, Ext. 404

Chris H. Shelby www.heartofohiomagazine.com

*These services are available to new and existing business owners with 500 employees or less.

“ I had a visit from my Dad the night he died. He was scheduled to go home from the hospital the next morning after a minor surgery. I woke to see him standing at the foot of my bed as plain as day. He did not speak, but as he looked at me I understood what had happened and I waited for the call from the hospital that ca me thirty minutes later.”

FALL 2011

OUTDOOR LIVING

Flying Squirrels:

Ohio’s Nighttime Gliders

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

by Warren Uxley, Naturalist for the Crawford Park District The sun has set but there is still a flush of color in the sky over the western horizon; in the east, darkness is gathering. With movements that are lightning fast, several Flying Squirrels approach a feeding station and begin their nighttime activities. Many people don’t realize it but the Southern Flying Squirrel is one of the most abundant animals in Ohio. (The Northern Flying Squirrel inhabits the boreal forests of northern Michigan, Canada and Alaska) It can be found in all eighty-eight counties and is in most of the woodlots. It can even be found in suburban communities that have significant numbers of large trees. But their nocturnal habits mean that they go largely unnoticed. The name, Flying Squirrel, is a misnomer. They don’t actually fly; they glide. By extending their front and rear legs, flyers stretch a fold of skin creating a flap. The flap, called the patagium, acts as an airfoil; this and a broad flat tail are all that’s needed to glide from one tree to the next. Subtle shifts of the legs and tail change the shape of the airfoil, this enables the flyer to dexterously maneuver while in flight. Beginning in early April, the females give birth to a litter of two to four pups. A tree hollow serves as the nursery. They will often have a second litter in the middle of the summer. This high reproductive rate is offset by the depredations of predators and the elements. Owls take a terrible toll and house cats add to it. Fall normally brings with it an abundant mast crop. Flyers feast on beechnuts and acorns but they have a particular fondness for hickory nuts. Any woodlot with good stands of Shagbark

FALL 2011

Hickory, some White Oak and Beech, is sure to have Flying Squirrels in residence. Storing nuts and acorns is an important fall activity — winter survival depends on it. Normally living a solitary existence — females with young being the one exception — flyers feel compelled to abandon the solitary life in winter. This is done out of necessity — winter is a challenging time. Being a small animal (2-4 ounces) means that it’s hard for them to maintain their body temperature. Gathering in large numbers in nesting cavities, the flyers benefit from the shared body heat. Up to 50 have been recorded in one tree hollow. Severe cold spells will force the flyers into a state of torpor. Huddling in their nest, their body temperatures can drop more than 20 degrees F. The energy saved while in this dormant state is a matter of life and death. During the brutal winter of 1978 many flyers were known to have gone dormant for over a month. If you want to attract Flying Squirrels to your property, there are a few simple things you can do. If you are feeding the birds, you may already be feeding flyers. Check your feeders at night. They love sunflower seed and corn. They also have a fondness for peanut butter and while not loyal to any particular brand, they do show a decided preference for the extra chunky style. One resource that is often in critically short supply is nesting cavities. Many birds and Ohio’s three daylight squirrels use cavities and the competition is intense. This is particularly true in second growth woodlands. The smaller trees have fewer cavities. Ordinary Bluebird boxes can serve the flyers very well. The box entrance is too small for many of the flyers’ competitors. They do

prefer the box to be higher than the birds like — 10 feet minimum, 15 is better. If you are planting trees and want to attract flyers then first on the list is Shagbark Hickory, then Pignut Hickory followed by White Oak and Red Oak. For more information about Flying Squirrels visit the following website: flyingsquirrels.com. •

Photos by Warren Uxley (Top) Flying Squirrels frequently visit feeding stations from early spring through summer. As Hickory nuts and acorns become available, activity drops off considerably. (Bottom) Flyers will most often launch themselves into the air while suspended head down on the side of a tree.

State of the

arts

Meet the people who use their talent to make things a little more beautiful in the heart of Ohio.

Diane E. Kaye

Glass Artist

Diane E. Kaye expressed her interest in the medium of glass as an art form approximately ten years ago. Her original mediums were the use of pen, pencil, handmade paper and ceramics. While taking courses at the Cleveland Institute of Art an instructor suggested that she should try painting. Although paint was a real departure from the materials being used, she became familiar and discovered paint was something she quickly embraced . Perhaps that is why she listened years later when an artist friend, who was teaching the medium of glass, said that Diane painted “like a glass artist”. Diane took classes from this artist friend and discovered a passion for working in glass. Diane explains, “I work like a painter in two dimensions, and I do not let the technology get in my way.” The process I use is very much like collage. Glass is fired in a flat kiln for 24 to 48 hours in the studio in Cleveland, where she works. Diane’s art can be viewed at Artworks on Main in Mansfield’s Carousel District, at various shows and galleries in Ohio, in private collections in America and by appointment at her studio. (whdekaye@gmail.com , 419.994.3508)

Paul McClain

Painter

Look for more local artists in upcoming issues of Heart of Ohio magazine.

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Paul McClain was two years old when he started to draw on the walls. His earliest memory is of a trip to the Toledo Museum of Art at about that time. He says, “I still remember the impact Andrew Wyeth’s work had on me. I looked at it and thought, wow, that looks like fun!” He believes his persistence has been as important as talent. For the last twenty years Paul has worked full time to create paintings that give an illusion of detail that allows the eye of the viewer to fill in the blanks. “I work from my own photographs and drawings for reference, but not for color.” Using only primary colors with white adds a unique aspect to his work. “The shadow colors stay clean and vivid, the highlights look natural. You don’t end up with mud,” he explained. Paul learned this technique from Robert Bonnin, a local artist who sold much of his work in Arizona, New Mexico and Los Angeles. “Robert was kind enough to let a young kid watch him work as he explained paint mixing and his color techniques. It was an invaluable time for me,” Paul said. Many are familiar with Paul’s paintings of Oak Hill Cottage, Malabar Farm and Kingwood Center. He credits his wife, Rehab Services Commission counselor Helen McNamara, with supporting and inspiring him. Discover Paul McClain’s work at Artworks on Main, the Mansfield Art Center, at shows around the country, and his studio, The Painters Art, 134 South Linden Road in Mansfield. (419.524.0137) ulmcclainthepaintersart@yahoo.com

FALL 2011

Love the Planet

Decorate the Walls

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

by Stephanie Zing, artist How do you find art and décor for your home that won’t bust the budget and helps the environment? Current trends in the art world show an increase in the number of artists creating “green” or environmentally friendly art using found objects, recycling and repurposing materials. The use of found objects in art began in the early 1900s, had resurgence in the 1980s and is again considered a modern art movement. While found object art isn’t going to solve the vast environmental concerns of the world, it is a choice for decorators and art lovers who happen to also care about the planet. As an artist with an environmental bent, I create objects of art that are beautiful and functional. With a recent solo show entitled “Recycled + Repurposed = Reincarnated”, in Oxford, Ohio all of the items were recycled objects decorated with recycled items. Some materials were gifted to me or discovered in my travels to garage sales, thrift stores or auctions where items were slated for demolition. Some items in the show originally were dumpster saves including a leather saddle and several birdhouses. I grew up in a household where we recycled and composted everything we could. My parents, raised during the Great Depression, instilled in me the value of the goods we purchased. We reused whatever we could, including old cardboard toilet paper rolls (great for holding the cords of electric devices and cute when covered with decorative papers); old strawberry baskets (terrific as an Easter basket with found paper woven through the sides); and Styrofoam meat packaging (perfect for paint palettes). Sadly, on trash pickup days I see serviceable items on the curb destined for our already overflowing landfills. Over the past 45 years I’ve watched our obsessed culture follow the need for the newest item on the market at the expense of the items we already have.

FALL 2011

This excess seems to be a uniquely American problem. According to recent Self Storage Association statistics, of 58,000 storage facilities worldwide in 2009, 46,000 were located in the United States. That represents a total of some 1.6 billion rentable square feet of storage space. I saw this problem intimately when I managed one of the largest privately owned self-storage companies in the Washington D.C. metro area. It was astounding how many people were willing to simply abandon their stored property to the landfill. I began making found object art in response to my love of the environment and as a statement about our intense societal need for having the newest material goods, even when what we have is still in good condition. It is ironic that one of the hottest new trends, Sculptural Objects and Functional Art (S.O.F.A.), is retro/refit and recycled made-into-art objects. It gives me satisfaction to give

people a second chance to enjoy these object(s) in a unique and new way. Many of the items I use would take decades to disintegrate in landfills. While the subject of recycling is a serious one, I strive to make artwork that can by turns be useful, fun, thought provoking and perhaps even sacred from what would otherwise have become waste. •

Stephanie Zing is a fused and stained glass artist, painter, collage and assemblagist and jewelry creator who uses many recycled objects in her works. An instructor for adult and children programs, her greatest love is sharing her art as an emerging public artist. Her work can be seen at the Pendleton Art Center in Middletown, OH, Studio #117, Bohemian Art Café, and the Oxford Community Art Center. She may be reached at info@bohemianartcafe.com or www.bohemianartcafe.com.

www.heartofohiomagazine.com 44

“ I had my granddad’s hat hanging on the wall of our fa mily room, and my neighbor gave me his own bowler hat to hang beside it. The two hung there for years, undisturbed. One day I ca me home to find the bowler hat in the middle of the floor, and an hour after I hung it back on the wall my sister called to tell me our neighbor had died in the emergency room earlier that day. The hats still hang together on the wall and have never fallen since.” Roseanne G.. Mansfield

Charles P. Hahn, CFP® Cleveland Financial Group Affiliated with Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp. Member SIPC 108 North Main Street, Rear Building, Mansfield, Ohio 44902 Tel. 419.522.4333 • Fax 419.522.3303 • chuck.hahn@lfg.com CRN201005-2042432

2011 – 2012 Season Sat., Oct. 15, OPENING NIGHT: MUSIC & DANCE

Sandusky State Theatre, 8 PM

Sun., Nov. 13, REED-WORKS SAXOPHONE QUARTET

Sandusky State Theatre, 7 PM

Sun., Dec. 11, HOLIDAY MOVIE MEMORIES

Sandusky State Theatre, 7 PM

Sat., Feb. 25, HARP MAGIC

Sandusky State Theatre, 8 PM

Sat., Mar. 17, A CELTIC CELEBRATION: GENERAL GUINNESS BAND Sandusky State Theatre, 8 PM Sat., Apr. 14, BELOVED OPERAS

NEW SUBSCRIBERS – BUY 1 GET 1 HALF OFF TICKETS: TOLL FREE

FALL 2011

Sandusky State Theatre, 8 PM

419-626-1950 877-626-1950

www.sanduskystate.com

INFORMATION:

419-652-4800

www.firelandssymphony.com

PUBLIC LIBRARY OF MOUNT VERNON & KNOX COUNTY 201 N. Mulberry Street, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050

OUTREACH SERVICES

740.392.BOOK

www.knox.net

740.392.BOOK

FREDERICKTOWN COMMUNITY LIBRARY DANVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

1 Burgett Drive 740.694.BOOK 512 S. Market Street 740.599.BOOK

GAMBIER COMMUNITY LIBRARY

15 Meadow Lane 740.427.BOOK

Element of Art Studio / Gallery is a non-profit art gallery that showcases the artistic talents of individuals with developmental disabilities affiliated with Richland Newhope Industries, Inc. Because the space doubles as a studio, the public has the opportunity to interact with the artists as they create unique artwork including but not limited to painting, photography, jewelry, and ceramics.

Element of Art

Phone: 419-522-2965 Gallery Hours: Tue-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-3

s t u d i o / g a l l e r y

96 North Main Street, Mansfield, Ohio 44902

Royalwood Ltd.

Supplies for beading, basket & seat weaving      

Irish Waxed Linen Thread Mizuhiki & Embellishment Cords Beads, Threads & Wires 517 Woodville Rd. Tools & Kits Mansﬁeld, Ohio 44907 Books & Patterns 800-526-1630 And much, much more… www.RoyalwoodLtd.com

Custom Designed • Affordable Luxury

Wynn Baker

Donna K. Delaware

419-961-7463 closetsandshowerdoors.com FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Fantastic Closets Shower Doors

“ The Christmas after my beloved grandmother died I was decorating the tree. In one of the boxes of bulbs I ca me upon an envelope with my na me on it, in her handwriting. It was a card with a loving message in her shaky handwriting. There was also a ten dollar bill, Grandma’s yearly Christmas gift to each of us. Why it was in that box unopened I will ever know, but it was a well-timed and much loved gift that year. ”

THE ARTS

Two Arts are Better than One

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Doni and Burton Stahl Doni and Burton Stahl have been making beautiful music and art together for twenty-three years. It seems to have been an interesting journey. Doni Stahl is a painter. Her remarkably detailed pictures of old Mansfield captivate the eye and seem to bring the past into sharp focus once again for the viewer. “I love architecture. I was a Navy brat, and we lived all over the place. Every weekend we took trips. Mom and Dad would put me in the car and we would drive through little towns and big towns just looking at houses and buildings. I really think that’s where it started for me,” she says. Doni’s husband, Burton, points out her work is so detailed that the number of bricks in the side of a building in her paintings of downtown is accurate to the real building. “She works from pictures, magnifying and counting the bricks per foot and she translates that to her art,” Burton said. Currently, Doni is working on a three-foot by four-foot picture of Lahm airport as it was in the early 1950’s. “I want to do a series of these, perhaps six, for a show. That’s my goal,” Doni said. View Doni Stahl’s work and you will find a personal message from her if you know what to look for. “For instance, in my pictures where there is a clock, calendar, or, say, a license plate, I’ve incorporated the time of our grandson’s birth, our wedding date, special times and dates for our family,” she smiles. Although much of her work is commissioned, she laughs when she tells the story of a painting she did of old downtown Columbus, Ohio. “It had the old Lazarus building in it. I didn’t know if it would sell, but I put it on Ebay anyway. One of the Lazarus daughters saw it, fell in love with it and bought it from me.”

FALL 2011

Doni Stahl

The other half of this duo is Burton Stahl, the smiling, affable musician who was part of The Music Explosion in the sixties. On September 2nd and 3rd of 1966, the group recorded “Little Bit of Soul”, and by May 16th it had rocketed up the Billboard Top 100 chart. Two and a half months after release it was awarded gold record status (over a million dollars in sales). “Soul” was number two in the country for two weeks, spent 16 weeks on the national charts and was number one in plays in every Ohio radio station all summer long. Burton and his friends, Jamie Lyons, Don Atkins, Rick Nesta and Bob Avery, went from being a popular Mansfield band to rock stars in the wink of an eye. Burton Stahl laughs as he remembers how impressed he was with his new status and how totally unaffected his Dad was. “I’d been on the road for weeks and I had come home to crawl into bed and sleep for days. I was an exhausted but cocky nineteen-year old when my dad opened the bedroom door and said, “Come out and help me clean the garage.” I rolled over and said, “Dad… I’m a rock star now and

Burton Stahl

I’m tired.” My Dad didn’t miss a beat when he said, “Get your rock star butt out of that bed and help me in the garage.” My Dad had a way of keeping you grounded. 1966 to 1969 were fantastic years for me and for the group, we had fame and a gold record, but I still managed to do a lot of garage cleaning when I was home.” Written by song writer John Carter after a religious conversion, the lyrics to

“Little Bit of Soul” has a message to deliver. Perhaps that explains some of the song’s longevity and continuing popularity. Still showing up in commercials, movie sound tracks and classics music lists, “Little Bit of Soul” continues to play. Burton Stahl may be retired from a day-to-day workplace, but he continues to make music and says he always will. “Music has always been a big part of my life. I play the tuba, the trumpet, piano and the acoustic guitar. I continue to write songs, I do some commercial work and I have a great group of friends I play with from time to time. We play private parties and at some area restaurants and events. I will never stop making music.” Although two artistic temperaments in one household might seem like a difficult combination, it’s easy to see how this couple maintains a balance. “I love watching her work and seeing her paintings come to life,” Burton says, obviously proud of his talented wife. On the other hand, Burton has taught Doni to play the acoustic guitar and the two write songs together. “I’ve always loved music, and living with a musician is perfect for me,” Doni says. Burton sums up the two artists’ household this way, “You can have passion without having war.” Doni Stahl’s work may be seen at Marie’s Frame Shop in the Appleseed Center, or you can reach her at: RetroOhio@aol.com. Contact Burton Stahl and find out about the Music Explosion at: www.musicexplosionband.com. •

t w ith Start the day righ st. Granter’s breakfa Lunch with us or take it with you.

Have a Grinder for dinner… we’re open til 7.

GRINDER REMINDERS Call or fax your order to:

419-774-8911 FAX

419-774-9321

We can cater your business meeting or family gathering!

Open Mon. – Fri. 6AM to 7PM , Sat. 7AM to 3PM

www.grantersgrinders.com

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

“ We once lived in a house out in the country around Butler where the sound of an infant crying would often wake us at night. We were a young couple with no children and the nearest neighbor was half a mile down the road. Never figured out where the crying was coming from, and wasn’t sure I wanted to know.” Marion D. , Mansfield FALL 2011

INTERESTING PEOPLE

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

John Talbott: Renaissance Man John Talbott is the new Executive Director of Development and Campaigns at Renaissance Theatre. It is a 46 year long, circuitous route to get here, but John says he is very happy he made it. “The first time I walked in here I fell in love with this theatre. I was really hoping they would give me the job, and when they did I felt as if I had come home,” Talbott said. In the 60’s Talbott found himself working as a Federal Investigator for the Department of Labor. At best he found it dull, at its worst it was downright unpleasant, so he started looking for other opportunities. That search led him to apply for a job with the Central Ohio Heart Association; overnight he became a fund raiser. When he speaks about the years he spent with St Jude as regional director it is evident Talbott enjoyed those years. Danny Thomas became a close personal friend in addition to managing the charity. Talbott created the first St. Jude telethon in Lima, Ohio during the 70’s. In the 26 years that telethon was on the air it raised over 20 million dollars in support of the hospital. Eventually he took the telethon to New York, the first one raising over one million dollars on Memorial Day weekend, 1978. Over 70 stars participated at that event at the Ed Sullivan Theatre, and in the Spring of 1978 Talbott presented Danny Thomas with a caricature that still hangs in Sardi’s today. “They know I come in at least once each year, and they always seat me where I can see Danny’s caricature and make sure it’s still in place,” he smiled. The Arthritis Research Institute of America, The Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Mahaffey Theatre in St. Petersburg, The Ferst Center at Georgia Tech and the Southern Arts Federation in Atlanta as well as Arts Management Associates where he was an agent for artists and attractions including Mansfield’s own Sylvia McNair all of these are on John Talbott’s impressive resume of accomplishments. How did Mansfield get so lucky?

FALL 2011

“My wife, Marilyn, and I were visiting our daughter and grandchildren in Galena at Thanksgiving last year.” The Talbott’s have been married 46 years with two grown children, were living in Madera Beach, Florida at the time. John was running his own consulting firm. “On the way back home my wife commented that she would love to come back home. She and I met at college at Ohio State, we’re both Buckeyes. I wasn’t for it at first, but as we talked I could see how much it meant to her. I told her I would look for something to keep me busy in the area, and that’s when I found this position at The Ren,” he said. In John’s short time at the theatre he has hired an agent to arrange touring opportunities for the Neos Dance Theatre. After he connected with a New York agent who represents Off- Broadway productions, it is likely that future plays by Michael Thomas will premiere at the Ren and then

tour the country. The opportunities and challenges are endless, but John Talbott seems excited about both. “I’m getting to know the community, and I love it. My job is not only to raise money for the Ren, but to consult with staff and work with Mike (Miller) . To do those things you must be part of the community. My wife and I live here now, and we will put roots down here,” Talbott explained. “The Renaissance Theatre is blessed with such incredible talent. I am happy to be a part of it, and I am very optimistic about the future of this beautiful historic theatre,” John Talbott said. •

MITCHELL’S ORCHARD & FARM MARKET OKTOBERFEST

2011 ASHLAND COUNTY DRIVEITYOURSELF FARM TOUR

Saturday, October 8 12:00pm – 5:00pm

Sat., October 1 10:30 am – 6:00pm Sun., October 2 12:30pm – 6:00pm

Wine & beer sampling. North Coast Mix Band. Great food & fun.

FREE KIDS DAY

GROW SWEET & SOUR CHERRIES PLUMS • PEACHES PEARS • ASIAN PEARS 36 VARIETIES OF APPLES BLACK RASPBERRIES • GRAPES BLACKBERRIES • WINE GRAPES

Sat., October 15 10:00am – 5:00pm Hayrides, apple picking, face painting. Talk on Johnny Appleseed @ 11am / 12pm / 1pm / 2pm. Caramel apples & cider.

1217 TR 1153 • ASHLAND, OH 44805 • 419-207-0746

Sometimes it’s easy to let things slide off your priority list, but taking care of your personal health should not be one of those...especially a non-healing wound. Wounds that linger for 30 days need the attention of a doctor who specializes in wound care. The Wound Healing Center of Bucyrus Community Hospital specializes in the latest therapies for hard to heal wounds and includes hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Our doctors are experts in the field and our staff is specially trained to offer a personal care program that will get you back to the life that you remember. If you suffer from any of these conditions or symptoms, we can help: • Diabetic wounds • Infection • Pressure wounds • Gangrene • Radiation burns • Failing grafts & flaps • Surgical wounds • Wounds on lower legs or feet • Any wound not healed within 30 days

Let us heal your wound.

WOUND HEALING

AND HYPERBARIC MEDICINE CENTER AT BUCYRUS COMMUNITY HOSPITAL AV ITA HEALTH SYSTEM

Call us at

419.563.9899

www.bchonline.org

Our new surgeon’s orthopedic career began at age 11. MedCentral welcomes joint replacement specialist Dr. Scott Foster. When Scott Foster’s brother fell off a local ski lift, he broke his wrist and both heels. Eleven-year old Scott was so fascinated by his brother’s care, he knew then he wanted to become an orthopedic surgeon. Two decades later, Scott’s finishing a Harvard Medical School fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital and returning to Mansfield to lead our new, multidisciplinary joint replacement program. If you’re considering joint surgery, ask your doctor about MedCentral’s excellent orthopedic program or call 419-756-8899.

Expert orthopedic care close to home.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

As life speeds up this fall, don’t neglect your health by Karen Collins msw, lisw, Licensed Independent Social Worker

“When you do nothing, you feel overwhelmed and powerless. But when you get involved, you feel the sense of hope and accomplishment that comes from knowing you are working to make things better.” — Pauline R. Kezer

Diet ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

ack your lunch four days out of five P Eat out less Drink more water Limit sweet snacks Bring a healthy snack to work Grocery shop with a list Limit alcohol consumption Identify emotional eating Limit caffeine

Fitness ■ Take the stairs ■ Change your mindset to think fitness is a priority ■ Have your kids join you on a bike ride ■ Take a walk after supper with your spouse ■ Develop an exercise plan

Family ■ S pend more time with family ■ Plan together time around something that is relaxing, like hiking ■ Grab the kids for a game of basketball or P-I-G ■ Establish rules and chores so that everyone is pitching in on housework

Friendship ■ R esolve a conflict in a friendship ■ Appreciate your current friends

Romance ■ S et aside time for your significant other: Take a walk together ■ Save a night once in a while for the two of you (no kids!) ■ Appreciate one another

Finance ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

reate a budget C Define purchases as a need or want Eat out less Shop with a list Stop smoking

Mental Health ■ A llow yourself down time in your schedule ■ Develop a solid support system of friends ■ Address signs and symptoms of depression early ■ Incorporate a daily or near daily activity in your life that is relaxing ■ Develop an exercise plan ■ Limit reactions to stress ■ Limit alcohol consumption

Physical Health ■ Take vitamins ■ Get a physical ■ Educate to common health problems and preventions ■ Limit alcohol consumption ■ Stop smoking ■ Develop an exercise plan Just remember: Small changes can lead to a big difference in your life! • FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Great health doesn’t happen by accident. When we think of our health, we typically think of our physical wellbeing. It is important to understand our emotional health as well. We devote a great deal of time to our families, patients and careers, but do we spend enough time taking care of ourselves physically and emotionally? Why is it so often acceptable to put our own health aside? Our health should not be at the bottom of the to-do list that only gets attention if and when time allows or once a medical condition has developed. How can we learn to focus on our total wellbeing? It really is simple to include routines in your life that create optimal health and happiness. Each of us is worth the extra time and effort it takes to eat healthy, exercise and focus on emotional wellbeing. In fact, these are all connected and take less time to address daily than you might think. We feel better when we eat better. Our bodies need exercise to stay strong and healthy inside and out. Exercise helps emotional balance by counteracting depression and reducing stress. Purposefully creating balance between family responsibilities, work, daily stresses and having fun will assist in creating emotional wellbeing. Diet, exercise and emotional health are interconnected and we function best when all three are in line. Making a difference in your life is easy. Choose three to six areas you consider

important and identify small changes you can do with a small amount of effort to get started. Then, increase the effort needed as the change becomes more difficult. Here are some examples: Family, Friendship, Work, Diet, Mental Health, Physical Health, Fitness, Romance, Finance. Following are some areas of life you might be interested in improving, as well as some ways you can improve your life in those areas. You will notice some of the listed changes overlap. For example, shopping with a grocery list can help you eat healthier and keep you on your budget.

CARE LIKE YOU’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE.

Ohio District 5

Area Agency on Aging, Inc. Advocacy

Bennington Glen

Assistance

Nursing and Rehabilitation Center The Villas Assisted Living

Answers on Aging

825 State Route 61 Marengo, Ohio 43334 419-253-0144 or toll free 1-888-BEN-GLEN www.bennglen.com

A Lifestyle Worth Cheering About www.heartofohiomagazine.com

No Home Maintenance, No Housekeeping, Just Fun!

Your local expert on aging and long term care.

Whether it be traveling, playing golf, meeting up with friends, spending time with family, or relaxing, you'll find more time for the things you enjoy when you move to Primrose! For your personal tour of Primrose, call Jill or Tanya at (419) 526-2900. Come see why we say, ®

780 Park Avenue West, Mansfield 419-524-4144 | 800-860-5799 www.aaa5ohio.org FALL 2011

Primrose Villas, Independent & Assisted Living

1301 Millsboro Road Mansfield, OH EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

PrimroseRetirement.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Seniors Becoming More Technology Savvy by Bev Rosich, Communications Manager, Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. Most people in the 65 and younger age group deal with new technology on a daily basis — from computers at work to cell phones in the car. However, for those that did not grow up with an iPod in their pocket, technology can be scary and intimidating. Younger generations take it for granted as they have been raised with a lot of these items. Even those in the middle-age bracket find themselves at the minimum exposed to it from their families and jobs. But for those who no longer go to work and may have limited access outside of their homes, technology can be viewed as unnecessary and frightening. What they don’t realize is how much technology can make their day-to-day tasks easier and improve their quality of life.

Introducing Technology If you are trying to introduce some type of technology to an older person, be sure to start slow and with something that is easy to understand and use. A cell phone can be intimidating to someone who has never used a computer. Do not inundate or overwhelm by introducing things they will not have a use or need for.

Help with Finances Most banks offer free online services including bill payment and check ordering. Online bill pay is fast and reliable and saves the time in writing checks and stamping envelopes. Paying bills online also offers a way to track finances down with Quicken, Excel of many other online financial tools.

Although technology-savvy young people were mainly responsible for the explosive growth of the internet during the early stages, senior citizens 70 and older are now representing the fastest growing segment of Web users. In 2005, just 26% of 70-75 year olds in the U.S. surfed the web. As of last year, that

The Area Agency on Aging, which covers Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca and Wyandot Counties, can be reached at 419-524-4144 or 800-860-5799 and is located at 780 Park Avenue West in Mansfield. •

Social Network Online Baby boomers and seniors are the fastest growing group of social networking website users. Older Americans are increasingly using the internet to connect with people from their past and to seek information and support with medical issues. Social networks are one of the few places — either online or offline — where parents, teenagers, grandparents, friends and neighbors regularly communicate. E-mail and online news are already a habit for all age groups. Almost all baby boomers age 50 to 64 and senior citizens send or read e-mail. More than half of the group exchanges e-mails daily. Status update sites such as Twitter, however, are only just beginning to catch on among older adults. Some 11% of those aged 50-64 have either tweeted or read someone else’s tweets. If a senior in your life is interested in becoming more technology savvy on the computer and does not have access to a computer in the home, they can usually find free internet access at their local library or senior center.

Hospice

Morrow County

Serving Morrow County & All Surrounding Areas

Your best choice if life may be nearing an end. More time, more attention, more care for patients & families from our expert nurses and hospice team.

comfort, pain relief, compassion… When you need us, we are always here. Our nurses and team members help patients and families savor life’s goodness, even during difﬁcult times.

419.946.9822

www.hospicemorrowcounty.org FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

History

number had grown to 45%. The percentage of those 76 and older that use the internet rose from 17-27% during that time. Seniors are no different from anyone else using the computer — they rely on it for news, resource information, communication and socialization through Facebook and Twitter. E-mail remains the most popular online activity for internet users age 64 and older. However, older users are less likely than younger people to conduct online shopping and banking. Physical challenges that accompany growing older still act as a barrier for internet use with this population. Things such as poor vision can make reading text more difficult, while arthritis can make using a mouse more challenging.

They will have so much to say… don’t miss a word.

You’ll be surprised how affordable good hearing can be. Call today to hear about our special promotion!

419.683.1141

FREE TV Listening Device* No more straining to hear your favorite TV shows and movies. This device connects your TV wirelessly to your hearing aids. (Retail Value $599.00) * With valid hearing aid purchase. Limited time offer.

A+ Technology Hearing Aid Services

1007 Crestview Dr. • Crestline, OH 44827 Open Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

MONEY MATTERS

Integrate Retirement Planning with Charitable Giving by Charles P. Hahn, CFP® in conjunction with Lincoln Financial Group, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor

For many Americans, giving money to charity — during their lifetime or in their will — is an important financial goal. But common sense says you shouldn’t do so at the expense of other goals — for instance, educating your children or funding your own retirement. By thinking ahead it’s possible to include charitable giving in the comprehensive financial planning process.

Beyond Taxes

Giving During Retirement Before starting the charitable giving process, determine what your passion is and who you want to help the most. Charity does truly begin at home, and you should make sure you have enough assets to maintain your standard of living in retirement. Work with your financial advisor from the beginning to make sure you have sufficient discretionary assets to continue making charitable contributions in retirement. Computer modeling can help gauge what any financial decision — including large gifts to charity — will mean 10 or 20 years in the future, and they can determine if gifts may be possible in the future after you’ve met your other financial goals.

Charitable Bequests There are generally three places your money can go when you die — to family members, to charity or to estate taxes. An estate plan can help you control who gets your money at the lowest possible tax cost. In their wills, people often list charities and the dollar amount each will

receive. But, make sure your estate can afford the bequests. If you make specific bequests and the market declines, there might not be enough left to take care of family members. How you phrase things in your will can make a big difference. Consider, for example, a $2 million estate that makes five $100,000 bequests to individual charities. If the estate shrinks to $1 million, the charities now get 50% of the estate instead of 25%. Instead, consider leaving beneficiaries a specific percentage of your estate. With a $2 million estate, $100,000 is 5%. If the estate shrinks to $1 million, 5% is only $50,000, but more is left for family members.

Future Legacy Oftentimes, people’s charitable interests often expand as retirement nears. They have a greater sense of their mortality and wonder about their legacy. Giving to charity can help add meaning to their life. With proper estate planning, you and your spouse not only can have a comfortable retirement but also leave a charitable legacy that will continue even when you’re gone. •

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

When you integrate charitable giving with your other goals the most important question to ask yourself is: “Do I have a heart for charity?” Don’t make donations just to get a tax deduction. While you get a nice deduction, people tend to be bitter about money they gave away if they don’t have enough assets in 10 or 15 years when they retire. The bottom line is that charitable contributions may reduce your tax liability, but make sure those dollars are truly discretionary before giving them away. Charitable contributions can take many forms. Most people are familiar with giving cash or checks. But it’s also possible to donate stock or other securities. The advantage is you may not have to pay capital gains taxes on any appreciation in the value of the publicly traded securities – and you may receive an income tax deduction for the current market value. Note that your choice in charitable beneficiaries may affect your allowable charitable deduction. Other, more sophisticated strategies are also available, such as family foundations. Although the assistance of an attorney is needed, you and your family members can use the foundation to make gifts to your favorite charities. Other commonly used charitable vehicles include:

■ A charitable remainder trust. You retain an income interest for a period of time. Then the assets go to the named charity. The donor gets the income plus an available income tax deduction based on the present value of the interest going to charity. ■ A charitable lead trust. It operates in reverse, with payments first going to charity. After a period of years the assets go to a noncharitable beneficiary you select. This strategy works best for individuals who don’t need the income the assets will generate in retirement but want to control who gets the property.

FALL 2011

! t o h s t s e b r Give us you Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re vacationing, exploring or just relaxing with a cup of coffee, we would love to see you enjoying your copy of Heart of Ohio magazine. Submit your photo, and you just might see yourself in a future issue! Send your photo to: editor@heartofohiomagazine.com

Theresa Hensley en joys Heart of Ohio on her front porch in Ashland, Kentucky .

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Lee and Margie Tasseff took their daughter, Natalie, son Grant and Heart of Ohio magazine to the Grand Canyon.

(Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina) Back row: Lori Oestreich, Aaron Brown, Cindy Brown, Tim Rinehart, Sherry & Jim Morrison. Front row: Daniel Rinehart, Tyler Brown, Elizabeth Oestreich, Michelle Oestreich, Justin Brown, Robby Rinehart. FALL 2011

COMMUNICATION COACH by paula m. cohen

I am a department manager at a medium-sized manufacturing company. We regularly receive IT training on new programs, software, etc. Two IT specialists are competent to do the training: “Jay” and “Tom.” The problem is that English is a second language for Jay, and he’s the one who usually presents the training. Jay is very difficult to understand; we have to frequently ask him to repeat instructions and information. He becomes frustrated and keeps saying the same thing over and over — only more loudly each time. At the end of the training, we walk away confused with only limited understanding. When we get back to our departments, we have to keep calling the IT people for help. We are wasting time and losing money. I have asked the IT director to please send Tom instead of Jay, but he insists Jay knows more about new programs than anyone else. We are afraid if we push any harder, it will look like discrimination. K L, Norwalk

A neighborhood acquaintance of mine has an interesting hobby — she likes to “try out” different religions. In the five years I have known her, she has affiliated with three very different belief systems. I feel that if it works for her… well, who am I to stand in the way of her spiritual development? I also feel badly for her because she has had a chaotic family life. My problem is that she tries to get me to convert to whatever she is practicing at the time. She’ll show up at my house with religious literature and other materials that I “have to” read and watch to find the real meaning of life. She also wants me to attend religious services with her. I am perfectly comfortable with the religion I grew up in and want her to stop! I dread running into her, but please do not tell me to cut off all contact with her; we live on the same block and our children play together. W L, Mansfield She’s obnoxious, intrusive, and lost. Her identity searching relates to low self-esteem and feeling rootless. It’s not the change in affiliation, but the frequency (three religions in five years) that is concerning. You can have

sympathy for her and her family; however, that is not a reason to tolerate her aggressive proselytizing. You do not say if you have spoken to her about this before. If you have not, start with a polite but confident tone: “Janie, you know that we are happy with our religion. Please respect our beliefs.” If she continues, you’ll need to be more firm in your response: “Janie, if we are going to remain friendly, you need to accept that we have different views, and not push any message, invitations, or religious literature on me. Your proselytizing is not welcome.” Remain consistent in your words and actions — if you back down even one time and take her literature or materials, you’ll be back to square one. Do not engage in any debate with her; you’ll only be fueling her new-found fire. If she still continues to bombard you, you will have no choice to cut off contact between your kids and hers. I think it’s safe to assume that she is irritating others, too. Your actions may inspire others to stand up to her as well. In situations where you dread running into someone because it makes you anxious, angry, or just irritated — reflect on your end of the communication process. By taking control of the situation and not hiding from it, you’ll relieve yourself of unnecessary stress. In some situations avoidance may be an option, but when there is frequent contact, as in this case, it’s best to deal and be done with it.

Paula M. Cohen is the owner of TrineVentures, a communications consulting business that helps organizations meet their communication needs through a variety of programs. Send inquiries or questions for this column to trineventures@hotmail.com. FALL 2011

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

Every company needs to be willing to shift valued employees around to protect productivity. Recognizing and utilizing each individual’s strengths and talents is necessary for long-term success. Perhaps the IT director is not completely aware of how Jay presents information to groups. Jay may be able to communicate more clearly in a smaller group setting, which may have created the idea (in the IT director’s mind) that he’s just fine with larger, non-IT groups, too. Ask the director to attend Jay’s next training session. Also, ask him to prepare an after-training quiz for the attendees. I think the combination of seeing the dynamic of the training and poor quiz results will result in the director rethinking how training information is disseminated. Your concern about issues of discrimination related to language and ethnicity are valid. Make sure in all

discussions about this situation you communicate that you feel Jay is an asset to the company and his technical expertise is needed and valued. Another consideration: How comfortable is Tom with training? Conducting training to groups is a lot like public speaking, and can strike terror in the hearts of many people. Just because someone has expertise in an area, does not mean that they can effectively communicate that expertise to groups. I applaud your concern and sensitivity about this problem. Recognizing that sometimes professional responsibilities and roles need adjusting to maximize employee strengths is a key for businesses.

E M P O R I U M H

Jane's

g e r Pa y n

Restaurant BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER

Jane’s Hunger Paynes Restaurant

Family Pools & Spas

Homestyle Cooking – great pies at great prices. Feel like part of the family when dining at our “community table”.

Above & In-Ground pool installations. Spas in all sizes & prices. BioGuard pool & spa chemicals with FREE computerized water testing.

Watch for the Lincoln Highway Sign 819 E. Main St., Crestline 419-683-3433 www.hungerpaynes.com Tue-Sat 6am-8pm, Sun 7am-2pm

Oak Park Tavern

Serving Great Food since 1940 2919 Park Ave. E., Mansfield 419-589-2637 www.oakparktavern.com Tue-Fri 11am-10pm, Sat 3-10pm, Sun 3-9pm

1672 Claremont Ave., Ashland 419-289-1946 or toll free 1-888-467-1946 4182 Burbank Rd-, Wooster 330-264-5970 or toll free 1-888-533-5970 www.familypoolsandspas.com

JOHN'S HOBBY SHOP

John’s Hobby Shop, Inc.

On the Square – Established 1977 15 N. Main St., Mansfield 419-526-4426 www.johnshobbyshopohio.com Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Fri ’til 6:30pm

Famous for our Lake Erie Yellow Perch. We cut our own steaks and prepare everything fresh to order in our open kitchen. Closed Mondays.

Lionel Factory Trained Authorized Service Station Come for your complete hobby supplies. We’re known for our service and product knowledge.

Crowe’s Shoes

Squirrel's Den

Podiatrist Recommended/Specializing in sizes & widths Hush Puppies, Sebago, Drew, Birkenstock, New Balance, San Antonio Shoes, Rockport, Ros Hommerson, Naturalizer, Florsheim, Trottero, Bella-Vita, Dunham

We make it here! Pumpkin Pie Fudge! Fudge • Chocolates • Frosted Nuts Over 21 Flavors of Popcorn

Area leader in fitting feet properly for 75 years 56 N. Main St., Mansfield 419-522-2431 or 41-522-1005 Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm, Fri ’til 6pm

Always Fresh - Always Delicious 33 N. Main St., Mansfield 419-522-9070 www.squirrelsden.com Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm, Fri ’til 8pm

FEATURED ON

Planktown Country Market, LLC

Bridal & Formal Wear by B. LLC

Large Selection of Bulk Foods, Groceries, Party Trays Available • Over 100 Kinds of Deli Meats & Over 100 Kinds of Cheeses with Everyday Low Prices

Bridal Gowns • Complete Tux Packages • Visit us to see New Arrivals • Homecoming & Prom Dresses • Bridesmaids & Flower Girls • Special Occasion Dresses

Angelwoods Hideaway B&B

Sandy Hill Fruit Farm & Garden Center

1921 Free Rd., Shiloh 419.896.3525 Mon-Thu 8am-5pm, Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Closed Sunday

Between Mohican, Malabar & Mansfield 1983 Pleasant Valley Rd., Lucas 419.892.2929 www.ohio-bed-breakfast.com Wedding & Reception, Rehearsal Dinner & Showers, Reunions, Business Training, Birthday Party or Dinner, “Big Girls” Slumber Parties, Scrapbook/Craft Weekends, Retreats

Your Special Day is our Specialty 564 N. Lexington-Springmill Rd., Mansfield 419-529-2009 Mon-Fri 11am-8pm, Sat 10am-5pm

Your Fall Headquarters 1482 Ashland Rd., Mansfield 1572 Lexington Ave., Mansfield Mon-Sat 8am-7pm, Sun 8am-6pm Mums • Pumpkins • Straw • Fresh Produce • Bird Feeders & Houses • Shrubs • Mulch & More

FALL 2011 A. L. Callahan Door Sales

Celebrative Art

Offering Ohio made Products.

We offer beautiful Cremation Urns and Keepsake Jewelry all made by hand. Several of our jewelry pieces are custom made with your loved ones own remains set within a beautiful, one of a kind, glass pendant.

Marieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Frame Shop

Paragraphs Bookstore

We provide custom framing of pictures, keepsakes, shadowboxes, cross-stitches, memorabilia, artifacts, certificates & awards

NEW ADDRESS - Moved 1 block! Bigger & Better!

Serving North Central Ohio for over 25 years! 35 Industrial Dr., Lexington 419-884-DOOR (3667) www.callahandoors.com Mon-Fri 7:30am-4:30pm

238 W. 3rd St., Mansfield 419-775-7078 or toll free 1-855-518-4568 www.celebrativeart.com

You name it, we frame it. 1444 Lexington Ave., Mansfield 419-756-6040 www.mariesframeshop.com M, Th 10am-7pm, T, W, F 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-5pm

Serving Readers Since 1996 229 S. Main St., Mt. Vernon 740-392-9290 www.paragraphsbookstore.com Mon-Fri 9:30am-6pm, Sat 9:30am-6pm

Crafty Clutter

Clutter makes a house a home 305 E. Main St., Lexington 419-884-1901 clutter4u@aol.com Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

Candles & home decorating accessories

Want to advertise in the

EMPORIUM? Contact our sales department: sales@heartofohiomagazine.com 419.524.2127

io ing in oh

y of spr the beaUt Unfolding

SPRING 2011

ONE YEAR (5 issues)

Watch for the special Holiday Edition!

Schnormeier Gardenonsy & Serenity Peace, Harm PLUS:

Subscribe to Heart of Ohio To have Heart of Ohio magazine mailed directly to your home or office, you may subscribe online at www.heartofohiomagazine.com or call the circulation office during business hours: 419.524.2127

rs Tree Frog Canopy Tou â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Native Orchids Appreciating Ohio rnational Flair Inte Decorating with an nds Heart of Ohio Fairgrou

scan this QR code with your smartphone

THE LAST WORD

We’ve all heard the old adage, “Choose a job you love and you’ll never have to work a day in your life.” I love my job. How else would I have had the opportunity to meet Elizaabeth Pastor, arguably one of the most interesting women in our area? You, too, will meet Ms. Pastor and her fascinating Ashland Art Garden in an upcoming issue of Heart of Ohio magazine. I’ve toured Schnormeier Gardens in Gambier, discovered the Frog Tree Canopy Tours in Loudonville and met dozens of artists, writers, entrepreneurs and just plain nice folks. Every day Diana Coon and I receive emails & phone calls telling us of another fascinating person, place or event that the heart of Ohio “should really know about”. Thank you, thank you, thank you for making my job the blessing it has been to me. Waiting to hear from you,

Diane Brown, Publisher Heart of Ohio magazine Heart of Ohio magazine is available by subscription and through local retailers. Look for Heart of Ohio in the magazine section of all Kroger, Meijer, Hawkins, Buehler’s and Geyer’s stores between Delaware and Lake Erie.

… and even here in north central Ohio! N I E D A M A S U E H T

www.heartofohiomagazine.com

SunGraphics, Inc. is proud to offer promotional items, products, gifts and giveaways that are made in the USA. Many are even made in north central Ohio.

FALL 2011

www.sungraphicsinc.com 419.524.6277

Collision Repair Family owned and operated since 1953.

More than just Collision Repair

COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR Our experience and training make the diﬀerence!

Everything Under the Hood

 We work with all insurance companies  Over 395 years of collective automotive experience

 25 I-CAR Trained and ASE Certified technicians and staff 595 Fifth Avenue • Mansfield, Ohio 44905 419-524-1350 • Fax: 419-524-8855 www.bakerscollision.com

 6 ASE Certified Master Technicians  Over 98% customer satisfaction rating

You’re Driving Home Our Reputation! BRAKES • ALIGNMENTS • AIR CONDITIONING

scan this QR code with your smartphone

Mid-Ohio’s Leader! Home

John S. Roby Eugene P. Earick Kim A. Foster

Auto Business

John C. Roby Nancy E. Them William A. Smith

ROBY-FOSTER-MILLER-EARICK

TRUSTED

PROVEN

PREFERRED

www.rfmeins.com

419-524-8411 MANSFIELD 800-755-RFME (7363) TOLL FREE 419-524-3042 FAX 44 Sturges Avenue, Mansfield, OH 44902

Life Health