Walden Life - Nov/Dec 2021

NOV

DEC 2021

SALUTING THE VETERANS OF WALDEN

Grandkids of Walden

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NOV

DEC 2021

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

16 Walden Staff Profile Heather Thoman

38 Walden News The holidays are here!

Club Walden has a full line-up of meals, events and services that wil make your celebrations extra-special.

18

40

GRANDPARENTS’ PRIDE & JOY

Back in the Day Rich & Sandra Pilarczyk enjoy 10 Walden homes over 38 years.

Grandchildren light up their lives (and these pages).

42

26

Neighbor to Neighbor Kathy Grandillo, your friendly neighborhood go-getter.

WE SALUTE YOU! Honor the military heroes in our midst with this special tribute.

44 Growing Up Walden Jim Rudolph grew up and left Walden... only temporarily!

SNAPSHOTS

47 8 Worth Noting

Walden Kitchens USAF Captain and B-52 Pilot Matthew Miller, a Gulf War veteran of Operation Desert Storm, circa 1990-’91.

14 Tee Time

22 Living the Life

50 Reflections

ON THE COVER

SALUTING OUR VETERANS COVER PHOTO: MARIA BIEL

4

WALDEN LIFE

Mmmmm, Pumpkin cheesecake!

PAMELA COWPER

Thank you Veterans for your service to our country! As a veteran’s wife, I am honored to be in the position to help you with your real estate needs.

DID YOU KNOW? Veterans Day evolved from Armistice Day, proclaimed in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson. Armistice Day recognized the end of WWI, when hostilities ceased November 11, at 11:00 AM, 1918 (The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month). President Dwight D. Eisenhower made November 11th the official national observance of Veterans Day. Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act calls on all Americans to observe 2 minutes of silence on Veterans Day, at 2:11 pm EST, to honor the service and sacrifice of Veterans throughout the history of our nation.

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3. In 2020 the VA removed the VA loan limit for VA backed mortgages, giving VA borrowers more buying power.

4. VA limits the closing costs that lenders charge veterans. No Private Mortgage Insurance. The mortgage is being insured by the federal government, reducing the risk of loss for the lender.

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FROM THE EDITOR

MIRIAM CONNER

A

s much as I love the long, lazy days of summer at the pool, there is nothing like this time of year.

No matter how old I get, the fall and winter holidays bring me such excitement and joy. I love this season with my family and seeing the holidays through their eyes. My kids are so good about keeping our traditions going every year.

I mention some favorite traditions of mine along with the rest of the Walden Life team on the following page. Breakfast with Santa at the Club is still one of our highlights and Christmas Eve at church is always my favorite service of the year.

I am also honored to have had the opportunity to meet with and talk to so many of our very own Walden veterans. In recognition of Veterans Day, they are featured in this issue. To all of them and all of the veterans not mentioned on these pages, thank you. My hope is that you feel honored and appreciated as you read through this tribute.

When we started Walden Life, we had the vision and passion that it would be something special, but we had no idea how well received it would be. I am so thankful for all of you and your kind words, encouragement and excitement since our premiere in March 2021. It has truly been a pleasure to get to know so much more about Walden and its amazing people. As we look ahead toward 2022, we look forward to another fantastic year of Walden Life!

For all of you snowbirds out there who fly South for the winter, you can keep up to date with Walden Life by following us on Facebook and Instagram @waldenlifemagazine. Whether you’re near or far, we wish you all a season of love, peace and joy.

LOVING THE WALDEN LIFE,

A

C E L E B R AT I O N

Walden Life is a property of Mitchell Media, LLC P.O. Box 586 Aurora, Ohio 44202 330-822-4011 Publisher Brad Mitchell Brad@MyWaldenLife.com 330-714-7712

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WALDEN LIFE

O F

T H E

W A L D E N

Editor/Associate Publisher Miriam Conner Miriam@MyWaldenLife.com 440-396-0374 Assistant Editor Estelle Rodis-Brown Estelle@MyWaldenLife.com Sales/Account Executive Leslie Fletcher Leslie@MyWaldenLife.com 440-785-3110

C O M M U N I T Y

l

Volume 1, Issue 5

Art Director Graphic Design J. Michael Myers Mike@MyWaldenLife.com Photography Maria Biel mariabiel@me.com

l

Nov/Dec 2021

Publisher of

Member of

Office Manager/Accounting Kathleen Mitchell Kathleen@MyWaldenLife.com 440-533-1208 Facebook: @waldenlifemagazine Instagram: @waldenlifemagazine

YOUR WALDEN LIFE TEAM It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

BRAD MITCHELL I love how things quiet down over the Christmas holiday week so we can relax and enjoy simple times together.

MIKE MYERS One of my family’s favorite holiday traditions is looking for outdoor holiday displays. In the car after dark, we look for homes or businesses with brightly lit holiday displays.

Cleveland’s Public Square is always a real crowd-pleaser.

MIRIAM CONNER I love spending time with my family without all of the usual running around. We bake my mom’s secret recipes, watch movies, play games, stay up late and sleep in, and enjoy several family holiday traditions together.

LESLIE FLETCHER My favorite Christmas memory is that magical moment before my boys would turn the corner to see what Santa had placed under our Christmas tree. The giggles of excitement and anticipation still make my heart so full.

I also enjoy not having to leave the Walden campus to celebrate the holidays with my extended family.

ESTELLE R. BROWN For me, the holidays are all about family, faith and friends.

From Thanksgiving through the New Year, my focus is all about togetherness with our grown children, extended families and close friends. Last year, COVID kept us apart, so we’re especially looking forward to gathering everyone together at the homestead this holiday season.

MARIA BIEL My favorite part of Christmas is seeing the magic through the eyes of our children. One of my favorite traditions is when our elves arrive from the North Pole to spend December with us. Every morning, the kids run to see what their silly elves have done during the night!

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7

Worth Noting

BY MIRIAM CONNER

Welcome to the Neighborhood l Terry & Alexandra Horne The Horne family has been busy remodeling their recently purchased home on East Acadia Point.

Terry was very familiar with Walden, having grown up in Aurora (AHS 1998 graduate). He even lived in Walden; his parents built a home on Glen Eden Drive. Terry joined the Navy right after high school and will be retiring in a couple of months after 23 years of service.

Terry was on vacation in the Dominican Republic when he met Alexandra and asked her out on a date. She turned him down for eight days straight before informing him that he would have to ask her dad first. Terry did that and with her dad’s permission, they went out and continued their relationship with Terry traveling back and forth to the DR. They were married in 2013.

Alexandra, who speaks five languages—English, Spanish, Portuguese, French and Italian—is busy taking care of their four children: 7-year-old son Liam, 5-year-old twin girls Jett and Ola, and one-year-old daughter Ella.

Eventually, Alexandra is looking forward to getting involved with golf at Walden.

Terry owns a real estate company in Florida but the Hornes have chosen to live in Walden because “it is the best place to live in town.” After having moved a lot with the military, the Hornes are looking forward to putting down roots and raising their family right here.

Songspiration

Meadows resident Tracy Bell has written 16 children’s musicals and she plays several musical instruments.

Her friend, Nina Bennett from Michigan, recently wrote a children’s book and Tracy wrote the song, “Grandma’s Hair” to accompany the book.

The book will be published in the spring and the song will also be recorded at that time.

Eleven-year-old Carlie Conner of Deer Island will be recording the song for Tracy.

(L-R) Carlie Conner with Tracy Bell.

8

WALDEN LIFE

Veterans’ Display at the Club

On November 10 & 11 at the Club, there will be a display of memorabilia supplied by our own Walden military veterans for all ages. Make sure you stop by and take a look!

Believe in Dreams Walden member Katie Eichenauer, executive director of the organization Believe in Dreams, announced a new partnership with her organization and the U.S. Marshal Service during the U.S. Marshal’s annual awards ceremony held at Progressive Field. She will be collaborating with U.S. Marshal in the Northern District of Ohio Pete Elliott, who is a Walden member. The Marshals will be nominating youth who have endured trauma and Believe in Dreams will fulfill their dreams! Believe in Dreams has fulfilled over 250 individualized local dream experiences since 2014 and continues to increase its dream fulfillment capacity each year.

Katie Eichenauer and Pete Elliott at Progressive Field, Cleveland.

Bridge the Gap In 2019, the Executive Committee and Walden Trustees discussed the need to repair or replace the bridges along the walking path.

A structural engineer’s assessment and recommendation was to replace the bridges. The infrastructure of two of the three bridges had been compromised due to poor stormwater drainage and a land shift.

As the work began, the demo work on the two bridges across from the Club uncovered additional problems, including safety issues with the original retaining walls and the pitch of the topography in the Walden Drive right of way (land between Walden Drive and the walking path).

The new bridges offer enhanced safety for Walden residents, guests and future generations. Drainage and structural concerns have also been

addressed. During the summer of 2022, the guardrail will be removed by the city and curbing will be installed.

The aesthetics of Walden Drive have also improved, giving it a fresh, updated look. Currently, the Executive Committee and the Trustees are reviewing a landscaping plan for the area parallel to the bridge across from the Club Entrance.

The work was completed by the Northeast Ohio Deck Company.

Friday at the Rocks

Every Friday, weather permitting, residents of The Landings meet for “Friday at the Rocks,” where they gather for food, drinks and a great time. This tradition is very special to many residents of The Landings and can oftentimes draw 30 residents!

N O V / D E C 2 0 21

9

Worth Noting Meet the Board

l

Willem van der Wal

Willem works hard in his dual roles as President of Ravines West and Vice President of the Walden Association.

Part of his responsibility as Walden VP is to manage security.

Ravines West consists of 30 units and Willem attends monthly meetings with his board and manages any issues and suggestions that may arise. For his role with security, he has regular contact with head security guard Debbie, and manages any related security issues.

Willem was born and raised in the Netherlands. He came to the United States in 1969 when he turned 21 to finish his studies at San Diego State University with a BA in marketing. He worked in the US before going back to the

Netherlands to work in the timber industry. His company sent him to Liberia for six years. Following that, he began working for an American timber company and came back to the USA, working in North Carolina for six years. His final career move was to Beachwood, working for Industrial Timber and Lend company, where he worked in export sales before retiring six years ago.

Willem moved to a condo in the Gardens 30 years ago and then met Sherri. They have been happily married for 25 years, residing in the home they built in the Ravines.

Willem is proud to have become a United States citizen in 2017.

Willem “likes the atmosphere of Walden” and says it is “like living in a forest.” He enjoys golfing, going to the Club and Barn, and working out in the fitness center. This world traveler says, “I won’t move from here.”

TRIVIA When Did the Breakfast with Santa Tradition Begin at the Club?

Trivia Question from Our Previous Issue: What type of farming was The Barn originally built for and why does it have two silos?

Answer: The Barn was built for dairy farming and the silos were used for storing hay.

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WALDEN LIFE

N O V / D E C 2 0 21

11

CALENDAR

Worth Noting Thanksgiving Buffet

Burger Night at Club Walden

Movies at Inn Walden

Thursday, November 25

Every Wednesday Night

Every Monday Night at 7 pm

Thanksgiving buffet at Club Walden. Reservations are required.

The most popular night for dinner at the Club! Enjoy a beef burger, turkey burger or veggie burger with bottomless fries.

12/20: The Christmas Chronicles 12/27: White Christmas (See yourwalden.com for a full list of movies)

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WALDEN LIFE

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For more information about these events, please vist yourwalden.com.

Breakfast with Santa

Ugly Sweater Night

Candlelight Buffet

New Year’s Eve Gala

December 4, 10 am - Noon

December 17 at the Club

December 24 at the Club

December 31 at The Barn

Enjoy a delectable breakfast and then get your picture taken with Santa!

Reservations are required.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Night at the Bar.

Christmas Eve candlelight buffet at the Club.

New Year’s Eve Gala at The Barn.

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N O V / D E C 2 0 21

13

TEE TIME

Another Record-Setting Year of Walden Golf in Review

By Estelle R. Brown For the second consecutive year, golf at Walden has seen a dramatic increase in the number of rounds played and participants enjoying various events. Collin McEndree, PGA, Walden’s Head Golf Pro, reports that, by the close of September 2021, over 2,000 more rounds of golf were played this year, compared to last year.

McEndree remarks that this enormous growth came, ironically, “at a time when we had the rainiest summer on record in recent history. To me, as a golf professional—who cares tremendously about growing the game—it is great to see this type of interest in the game of golf.

“Whether you are a longtime member who has found more time to golf, or a newer member that may have picked up the game during the start of Covid, I think this participation and play we are seeing speaks volumes to how fun and addicting the game of golf can be. Also, being able to bring things back to normal and run events more consistent to the way they were before our ‘Covid Year’ has helped greatly.”

If ever there has been a silver lining to a pandemic, this growth of golf at Walden is certainly one to celebrate. Part of that celebration now includes recognition of individual golfers who excelled this past year on the Walden course.

Major Event Winners of 2021 n Men’s

Club Champion - Greg Myers Champion - Mary Ann Muccio n Husband/Wife Champion - Matt & Renee Wurm n Men’s Old Pal - TBD n WWGA Old Pal - Angie Gubanc & Laura Silver n Men’s Member-Member - Russ Papa & Tony Nero n Triple Crown - Dan Tober & Nick Pezzutti (Guest) n WWGA

Getting Your Golf Fix During the ‘Off-Season’ Now that the pleasant, sunny days of early October have given way to the blustery, cold days of November, you may not want to be out on Walden’s course, but you also don’t have to suffer from golf withdrawal, McEndree assures us.

Whether you putt at home or try out Walden’s golf simulator, McEndree has helpful tips to up your winter game.

“For those who may have caught the itch to play golf year-round, even when the snow is flying outside, there are many ways you can play and practice during those winter months here in Ohio,” he says.

14

WALDEN LIFE

(L-R) 2021 Triple Crown Winners: Nick Pezzutti (Guest) and Dan Tober.

“Putting is the most important part of the game of golf,” McEndree reminds us. “The key to putting at home is practicing with a purpose. Just hitting the golf ball around the floor at home may keep you busy, but will not make you a better putter. Practice on tempo, distance control and club path by making sure you’re hitting the ball where you’re aiming.”

McEndree says that there are many great drills for putting at home that are just a Google search away, but remember to “practice with a purpose.”

Another great way to satisfy that golf itch and get some swings in can actually be found here at Walden. Last January, Club Walden added a Trackman Golf Simulator next to the golf shop, where you can practice and hit balls on a virtual driving range as well as play golf courses from all over the world.

“This golf simulator is a great way to hit some shots while the weather outside is not ideal for golf,” McEndree says.

The simulator opened on November 1, when the outdoor driving range closed for the year. Call or drop by the Club to check out your options and schedule a time slot for your virtual golf session.

“Thank you, everyone, for a great 2021 golf season!”

McEndree concludes. “As always, please, never hesitate to reach out to me or any member of our golf staff with any questions you may have.”

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15

Staff Profile

H E AT H E R T H O M A N

DIRECTOR OF SALES Hometown: Akron Family: Husband Barry (married 26 years).

Children Jake (22), Evelyn (20), Benjamin (17) and Peter (11).

Hobbies: Hiking, spending time with my family and visiting breweries Favorite Music: I love when Christmas music comes on the radio in November Favorite Food: Chicken Paprikash Favorite Movie: “Sound of Music” or “Pride and Prejudice!”

Favorite Walden Event: The Clambake! I love that it brings so many members together with friends and family.

Did You Know: I have been at Walden going on 20 years!

Best Thing About Walden: The people, hands down, from the members to the employee partners.

I could not ask for better people to work with. Rob and Kate are the most caring and accommodating people I have ever worked with.

Patrick is my partner in crime in the office—he is always positive and makes me smile!

16

WALDEN LIFE

PHOTO: MIKE MYERS

Join us for a celebration of watercolors honoring our resident,

Ingrid Sussman

Sunday, November 21, 2021 Showing: 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

The Weils—16695 Chillicothe Road On 306, just north of Washington Street

Special appearance by International acclaimed violinist Steven Greenman R.S.V.P. 440.543.4221 or JKodrich@MenorahPark.org

Light refreshments will be served.

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S E P T / O C T 2 0 21

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Grandkids of Walden “Sugar and spice and everything nice” are just what the grandchildren of Walden are made of. See for yourselves!

Ken and Bette Susnik of the Gardens - grandchildren: Bennett, Brynn, Brennen, Beckett, Alyssa, Annika and Aaden.

Sean and Cara Johnson of East Acadia Point - grandson Beau Thomas.

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WALDEN LIFE

Ryan and Julie Driscoll of Deer Island - grandson Rainn Rylen Driscoll.

Members Sam and Michele Zingale with their five grandchildren: Carson, Jackson, Anna, Alyssa and Gianna.

GRANDKIDS OF WALDEN

Rick and Suzanne Kanzleiter of Russett Woods grandchildren: Carter Smoller and Brinley Kanzleiter.

Daisy Alford-Smith of Bent Creek with her five granddaughters.

Lea and Ed Echan of the Ravines - grandchildren: Nate and Joel Fletcher, and Noelle, Brady and Maggie Echan.

Grace Vitale of Fairington - granddaughters: Olivia and Parker.

Rick and Suzanne Kanzleiter of Russett Woods grandchildren: Lucy, Russell and Eleanor looking at newborn baby sister Penny Kanzleiter.

N O V / D E C 2 0 21

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GRANDKIDS OF WALDEN

Steve and Carol Bowman of Highpoint with great-grandson Carter.

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WALDEN LIFE

Patti and Tom Ianni of the Meadows - their seven grandchildren at the pool.

GRANDKIDS OF WALDEN

Sean and Cara Johnson of East Acadia Point - granddaughter Rose Amelia.

Bob and Ruth Tuttle of the Landings - grandchildren: Remy, Lyla, Reagan, Lilly, Carter and Addy.

Send us photos of your fireplace (to miriam@mywaldenlife.com) to be included in the next issue of WaldenLife.

N O V / D E C 2 0 21

21

LIVING THE LIFE

What Is Your Favorite Holiday Tradition?

Erica Gardner R I D G E W AY D R I V E

Jerry Buckmaster

“Growing up when it was Chanukah, my Grandma (Safta) would make the best potato Latkes. As I became an adult and had my own family, my late aunt Sandy would mail us a different menorah every year.

We have quite the collection.”

EAST ACADIA POINT

“Taking our nieces and nephew to the zoo every Thanksgiving to get them out of the house while everyone else cooks.”

Suzanne Kanzleiter RUSSET WOODS

“When my two brothers and I were children, my Dad took us bowling on Christmas Eve

Sandy Kechan WALDEN MEMBER

“The Christmas holiday has always been one of joyous celebration and tradition. The one tradition that is still near and dear to my heart is spending a full day baking our favorite cookies to enjoy with our family and friends. It brings us all in the kitchen to share and make special memories.”

22

to corral some of our excitement and anticipation. Bowling on Christmas Eve has now been a tradition for over 50 years.

As my parents would alternate the holiday among their three children, they continued to bowl with us. Now all three extended families bowl each Christmas Eve and text the family picture at the bowling alley, along with the scoresheet, to each other. In some cases, there have even been holiday team bowling shirts!”

Victoria Prato

Lea Echan

Pam Mehallis

WALDEN MEMBER

R AV I N E S

WILLOWS

“Decorating our home and seeing all of the beautiful outdoor lights.”

“After the Thanksgiving meal, our family hangs the 12 Christmas stockings over the fireplace hearth… one for each family member, left to right, oldest to youngest.”

“I love going to the Christmas concert at my church, Parkside, with my family.”

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S

“

tanding quite alone, far in the forest, while the wind is shaking down snow from the trees, and leaving the only human tracks behind us, we find our reflections of a richer variety than the life of cities.”

— H E N RY D AV I D T H O R E A U

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24

WALDEN LIFE

HHHHH SALUTE

TO OUR HHHHH

Walden Veterans Sam Albright n Air Force n 1956-1960 n Texas, Japan, Georgia,

Illinois n Jet engine mechanic n Ravines West (a Walden resident for 27 years) n Wife - Diane

(married 61 years) n Sam owned the

industrial distribution company, Keystone Components. Two sons own it now. n “Every year since my discharge in 1960, I am more proud to have served my country.”

John Atkinson USS NEWPORT NEWS COURTESY OF DAVE SCHIELE

By Miriam Conner

In recognition of Veterans Day 2021, I had the very high privilege of talking to some Walden veterans who have served and sacrificed for our shared freedoms and protections. A patriot is defined as “a person who vigorously supports their country and is prepared to defend it against enemies or detractors.”

All of the Walden veterans featured here embody this definition. No matter what their role was in the armed forces, they were doing part of a job that helped to secure our freedoms. They did not know what they would be facing when they enlisted or were drafted, yet they served anyway.

I hope you enjoy getting to know these vets as much as I did. Join me in honoring all of our Walden veterans, including those who may not be represented below (due to time and space constraints). They all deserve our gratitude.

26

WALDEN LIFE

n Army n 1970-1976 n Served 3 years Germany; 3 years at Fort Hood, Texas n ROTC in college n Ravines West n Wife - Tris n John and Tris

relocated here from Philadelphia, looking for a golfing community. At Walden, they both play golf.

n John worked 40 years in the gear industry with two companies. He still does consulting work for a German gear company. n “The time given is important. Serving gave me a

better understanding of what it means to be an American.”

SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS

Manny Barenholtz n Army (drafted) n 1957-1958 n USA - Niagara Falls n Received a Letter of

Commendation n Walden developer n Wife - Bonnie n Manny was building

houses at the time he was drafted. He built 22 houses while he was in the Army.

Looking back at his time in the service, he says it was a positive influence in his life.

n “I had a choice... slough it off or do the best I can.

I helped put some private enterprise into the base.”

n “When I first went to the USS Beaty, we went with a lot of other ships to Cuba where Casto was trying to ship missiles.” n Moved from Lyndhurst 6 years ago to Walden (Fairington). n Wife - Kathryn n “While I was in the service, the Vietnam War was

going on (The West Coast). I was stationed on the East Coast. I remember when President Kennedy was assassinated. I remember where I was and what I was doing, it’s one of those things you never seem to forget!”

Steve Bowman n U.S. Army n 1969 - 1971 n Aberdeen Proving Grounds, MD n Assigned to Army

Tom Bondra n Navy n 1962-1968: 4 years

active duty, 2 years inactive reserves n Rhode Island, Florida, Norfolk, VA on a destroyer n 6 years in the U.S.

Navy (1962-1968).

Honorable Discharge in 1966 as a Third Class Petty Officer.

n “My first tour of duty,

I was stationed on the USS ARD for three years on a floating dry dock; it never left the pier. While I was on this tour, I met a young man who loved to sing and we became good friends. His name was Herb Femster, who over the years became a singing artist by the name of Peaches and Herb (a very popular singer). I have many of his albums.”

n “I really wanted to see the world, so I asked the

Captain for a transfer. A few months later, I was transferred to Norfolk, Va. on the USS Beaty, a DD 756 destroyer. Well, I got my wish. That ship was never at the pier for more than a few weeks. That last year of active duty, I saw many different countries: Germany, France, Ireland, Sweden and a few others.”

Materials System Analysis Agency, doing systems and cost analysis studies.

n Steve graduated from

Bowling Green State University with a business degree in 1968; obtained an MBA in 1969 for a career in business management.

n Wife - Carol (53 years); 2 grown sons, Kevin and Mike. n Walden residents for 8 years - Overlook Drive. “We had been in Aurora since 1976 and decided to downsize.

Both of us are golfers and fell in love with the condo.” n “I actually volunteered through ROTC while in college.

I learned that rank is granted and leadership is earned.

I carry with me today the concept that no one is left behind.” u

“I carry with me today the concept that no one is left behind.”

—Steve Bowman

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SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS

Larry (Chip) Buchanan

Wally Cowper

n Army

n Marines

n Corp of Engineers

n 1959 - 1963

n 1967-1970

n Okinawa, Cambodia

n Germany 1st Lieutenant n 2019 - Moved to Walden (Russet Woods) n Wife - Deanna; daughter, son, 4 grandkids n Larry graduated in

1966 from the College of Forestry at Syracuse University with a B.S. in Wood Products Engineering, then earned an MBA from Syracuse University after military service.

n “I spent my entire career (40+ years) in the hardwood

lumber Industry with full retirement in 2010. We moved to Walden in 2019 from our tree farm in Northeast Ohio to be closer to our children. Manny created a wonderful place to live.”

Roger Chapman n Air Force n 1950-1955

automatic weapons instructor. While in Okinawa, became a black belt in karate.

n College, career after

service, police officer for 14 years, then went into sales for the electronics industry.

Finally, started a manufacturer’s representative company for the same industry.

n Wife - Pamela Cowper n Wally and Pamela have lived in Walden for 31 years:

The Meadows, The Ravines and currently in The Gardens. “THE LIFESTYLE brought us here! The first time we drove through Walden was in the late spring.

It seemed like a resort, with people driving their golf carts and all the beautiful flowers and trees in bloom.

I cannot imagine living anywhere else.” n “I volunteered to serve my country and would do so again if I were of age.”

n 2 duties overseas:

George Ducas

Korea & Azores Island off the Portugal coast

n Navy

n Pilot - “They needed

n 1945 - 1946 (WWII)

pilots so I passed the test to get into the Air Cadets.”

n Walden resident for 33 years (enjoyed golf)

n Pacific - aircraft carrier

n 2 years of college –

n George worked as a

Loyola in Chicago – then went into the Air Force; finished college after the service

n Went into the paper industry for many years; retired three times! n Wife - Margaret (21 years) n Roger had a farm in Rootstown. He has lived in the Meadows for 22 years. He worked for a Walden resident who suggested moving here. n “Moving to Walden was the best thing I ever did until I got married for the second time.”

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n Tank commander,

WALDEN LIFE

controller for Ford Motor Co. in Cleveland for 31 years. The building closed and he could have moved with the company to North Carolina, but instead, he became treasurer at Marshall Ford in Mayfield for 30 years.

SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS

Ed Echan

Peter French

n U.S. Army

n US Navy - Officer

n Active Duty: 1973-1975 (Vietnam Era)

n 1964-1967

n Stateside 2 years at

Fort Eustis, Virginia n Commissioned as a 2Lt

Transportation Officer out of ROTC from John Carroll University; after Officer Basic, assigned to an Adjutant General (AG) slot at Ft. Eustis.

n Started MBA at William

& Mary while in the Army with veterans benefits; finished at Cleveland State University upon returning home. n Wife - Lea (married 48 years); daughter Leslie Echan Fletcher (Glen Eden Court) and son-in-law Matt, grandsons Nate and Joel; son Matt (Sarah) and Noelle, Brady, Maggie and son Tim.

n Served on a destroyer along the West Coast, based at Long Beach with tours to the Western Pacific and Vietnam n Colby College n Glen Eden Court n Wife - Muriel; 4 children,

9 grandchildren n Worked for Alcan Aluminum (37 years) n Peter chose to enlist right out of college, attending officer candidate school. “I wanted to serve and felt I needed the maturity that serving would give me.”

Jim Gorian

n Walden residents for 9 years (Cardinal Court in

n Marine Corp

n 1969-1999 (Retired as

Ravines West). “For years, we said we would eventually move ‘on campus’ from Solon and in 2012 we did! We have been members since 1989, first on a corporate membership and eventually on our own.”

n “It was an honor and privilege to serve. Something like

only 1 in 10 soldiers actually are in combat units… those are the vets we look up to!”

Dave Edmonds n 1957-1959 n Continental U.S. -

Missouri n 2.5 years training outfit

in the Army n Dave attended the

ROTC program while in school n Ravines West

(a Walden resident since 2016) n Wife - Mary n “There are many who have served longer; I am happy to have done my part.”

a Colonel in the Reserves) n Vietnam (FO), Twentynine Palms (active duty) n Galveston, Kansas City, Atlanta, Cleveland, Quantico, Philadelphia Artillery Battalion n Walden Member for

28 years n Wife - Gail n Jim has worked as a sales rep, regional sales manager, industrial manufacturing general manager and VP. He currently owns his own business, Management Recruiters in Hudson. n “My wife was very understanding. Without that,

serving would have been very difficult. She handled the kids and I never had to worry about it. Serving was an honor and a privilege, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. When people say, ‘Thank you for your service,’ I tell them, ‘You were worth it.’” u

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SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS

Bob Herak

Steve Hujarski

n Air Force - 4 years. Ohio

n Navy

National Guard 24 years.

n 37 years - active & reserve service

n ROTC - Ohio State.

Pilot - HC130. Retired Officer. n Vietnam, Gulf War, Bosnian War n Bob started his military

service in the Army ROTC but the Air Force needed pilots, so he transferred to the Air Force and flew 78 combat missions.

n Walden member since 1989 n Wife Anula Ellis - a WWII Holocaust survivor from Poland (1941) n “For those who have fought for it, life has a flavor that the protected will never know.” (Not his original quote but his favorite!)

Terry Horne n Navy (23 years); retiring soon n Terry started as an

aircraft mechanic (6.5 years in California and Hawaii). Then he became a director of personnel and operations for recruiting, in charge of 16 recruitment offices and 85 recruiters.

n Now he owns a real estate company in Florida n Walden resident at East Acadia Point n “The Navy’s old slogan was ‘accelerate your life.’

It really does. You can get further in your life quicker if you join.”

n Norfolk, Virginia;

Washington, DC; Columbus, Ohio; San Diego, California; Pearl Harbor, HI; USS LaSalle; Manama, Bahrain; Yokota, Japan; Dayton, OH… many other ships and locations.

n Vietnam veteran (enlisted in 1965); recalled to active duty for Desert Storm. Achieved rank of Chief Petty Officer, commissioned to a Warrant Officer, commissioned to a LTJG after receiving college degree, retired as Commander. n AAS from CCC, BS from Lake Erie College, Master from Naval War College, Master Certificate from George Washington University n Steve has worked 45 yrs in Information Technology in numerous management positions for many companies. He retired from PNC Bank 4 years ago n Married twice; 4 children, 9 grandchildren n Walden resident (Arrowood Condominiums). Moved to Walden so his son could attend a better school in Aurora n “My Navy assignments have taken me to 25 different

countries, four different ships, and numerous locations in the U.S. I am proud to be a Veteran and to have served. Those who have died for our country gave up their tomorrows so we can have our today.”

“I am proud to be a Veteran and to have served.

Those who died for our country gave up their tomorrows so we can have our today.”

—Steve Hujarski

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WALDEN LIFE

SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS

Bill Keckan

Matt Miller

n U.S. Army

n Air Force - 7.7 years:

n Active duty 1971-1972, Army Reserves 1973 1990. Fort Benning for basic training, Fort Knox for Army Officer Training, Fort Jackson as Company Executive Officer.

USAF Captain, B-52 Pilot. Desert Storm (Gulf War)

n “After training as an

Command (SAC) Bases.

Built SAC Intelligence Data Handling System (IDHS) n After his military service, Matt earned an MBA and pursued a career in developing healthcare technology.

He is currently a managing partner in a venture capital firm investing in healthcare technology.

armor officer I was sent to Fort Jackson as a training officer for basic trainees. I was assigned to Fort Jackson’s Special Training Company that handled trainees who failed basic training, either for physical or discipline reasons.

The Army’s job description for me required a degree in psychology or social work. My degree was in accounting! Our job was to get these men in shape and return them to regular basic training, quickly.

We had a Motivation Platoon for those with behavioral issues or were having difficulty accepting authority.

Our success rate was very good and I got a lot of satisfaction seeing these young men turn themselves into good soldiers. I knew many of them would be going to Vietnam and we were helping them adapt to the intense training they would receive. This discipline might have saved their lives.”

n After active duty, Steve earned a CPA and an MBA,

thanks to the GI Bill. He spent 10 years in public accounting, specializing in healthcare clients. He then became CFO at Marymount Hospital. Later, he joined Cleveland Clinic as Chief Operating Officer and later as Executive Director for Cleveland Clinic, where he held several different roles before retiring in 2019.”

n Wife - Cindy (40 years); 4 sons, 8 grandchildren. n Built at Walden Farms 15 years ago after living 13 years in the Woods of Aurora. n “I was at Ohio State when I joined the ROTC in 1968.

The campus was in turmoil over the Vietnam War. It was a difficult time for those in ROTC to even wear the uniform on campus. I didn’t really care about protesters. My dad served in WWII and my cousins during Korea. I felt strongly that it was my turn to serve. And going in as a commissioned officer gave me leadership experience that benefited me throughout my career. I’m proud to have served.”

n Attended Officer Training School after earning bachelor’s degree in biochemistry n Multiple Strategic Air

n Wife - Lisa Vegas; “4 children between us (3-me,

1-Lisa).” n Walden residents for 2 years (Deer Island). n “I grew up on a farm and always wanted to serve my nation and, if need be, fight for freedom. I would do it all over again, if need be.”

Al O’Neil n Army n 1945-1946, rising to the

rank of Staff Sergeant. (“An amazing experience for a young guy!”) n Al was drafted into the

service two months after his 18th birthday and two weeks after VJ Day… the end of World War II. After training in the U.S., he spent several months in China, mostly in Peking (now Beijing). Also, he spent a month or so in both Shanghai and Tokyo.

n “My mission was to assist the Chinese National Government in resisting Communist revolutionary forces.” n Walden resident at the Ravines n Wife - Sharon u

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SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS

Rich Pilarczyk n Air Force n 1952-1956 n Washington, DC to Alaska; primarily Kansas n Took aerial photos of

the Russian coast n Walden Farms n Wife - Sandra n Rich graduated from

Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas in 1959 with a degree in Mathematics. “I took a course in German because some of the math books (especially matrix theory) were still not converted to English. I graduated with honors in math.”

n Worked as a mathematician for an engineering company for 60 years n “I had a tour of duty (USAF) in 1955, stationed at Eielson Air Force Base, just outside Fairbanks, before Alaska was a state. (Alaska gained statehood in 1959.)

I was there during the summer (24 hours of daylight -The Land Of The Midnight Sun). Quite beautiful and rustic.” n Completed a four-year term in just over 3 years by going full time (no summer breaks). He also had to take a required course, to fulfill graduation require- ments, at Kansas University in Lawrence, Kansas

Stan Rusk n Marine Corp n 1956-1958 + 6 years in

the Reserves n Cherry Point, NC

Marine Corp Air Station, a training facility for jet pilots n Went in on the day he

turned 18. Got out and got married a month later. n “The training I received

in the Marine Corp helped me with my business. I never give up. I learned that in the Marines.”

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WALDEN LIFE

n Stan started out working for the A&P produce

department. After his service with the Marines, he became a Kroger store manager at age 22. He opened up the first Kmart grocery store in Lorain, then worked on the road, selling for a national company, Smith Weber and Swinton. He bought the company in 1972 and sold it in 1997, retiring at age 57.

n Ravines (2nd home in Ravines - Manny built house in 1985). Lived there until 2003; now living in Florida most of the year but retains Walden membership. n Wife - Ginger; 5 sons, 11 grandchildren n “I have worn the same gold pendant around my neck for the last 50 years to promote the Marine Corp.

I know what it did for me.”

Dave Schiele n Navy n Quartermaster (navigation), 3rd Class Petty Officer n Joined right after high school graduation (1972) n Served on the 2nd Fleet Admirals staff - Newport News flagship n Norfolk, VA - 2 years

active duty, 2 years active reserves, 4 years inactive reserves n 1978 tour to Norway, Copenhagen, Portugal, Puerto Rico. Crossed the Arctic Circle - received the Blue Nose Certificate n Attended Lakeland Community College while in the Reserves; earned an associate degree in civil architect engineering; then earned a bachelor of arts degree from Tri-State University in civil engineering n Retired from Nexus Engineering in Cleveland n Coming from a military family, Dave’s father and

brothers also served in the Navy. His daughter is a captain in the Army, and his son is a WWII and Civil War reenactor. He says, “It is a family tradition to serve.”

n Fairington resident at Walden n Wife - Charmaine; 4 children, 6 grandchildren n “It was a great time to serve the country and figure out what I wanted to do. I was able to go to school and mature.”

SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS

Ed Schlaker n Marine Corp n 1958 - 1962: “Glorious Peace Time” after Korea and before Vietnam n Spain 2 years, North

Carolina 2 years n Walden resident for 20

years (Russet Woods) n Wife - Peggy (passed

several years ago); 3 sons, 9 grandchildren.

Married while in the Marines. n Ed has worked in sales and marketing for Parker Hannifan – a Cleveland industrial products company – for 20 years. n Moved to Walden from Chicago; had lived in

Chagrin Falls for many years. Fell in love with Walden and the condo immediately. Active with the Aurora Seniors Group. “I love living here.”

n Wife - Marsha (53+ years). Met at Marquette

University and got married while still in college.

“We adopted Vietnamese twins: Christopher and Jennifer in 1973; they turned 50 this October. We have three grandchildren: Ashley (28), Jayden (16) and Sophia (11).”

n “Marsha and I have traveled all over the world. We have been to all 50 states, over 100 countries and I have been to all 7 continents.” n The Landings (1989-1995), East Acadia Pt.

(1995-2020); now live in the Lakes of Aurora. Still Walden members, “We absolutely loved our 31 years living in Walden. Marsha and I have moved 17 times.

We moved to Northeast Ohio from Bucks County, Pennsylvania to join Master Builders. I found Walden by accident. We were about to be empty nesters and Marsha suggested that we buy a condo in a golf course community. At the time, neither of us were regular golfers. My realtor brought me to Walden and we fell in love with it.”

n “I was in the Army Reserves during the Vietnam War.

n “Very happy that I served. It was a privilege to serve and I respect all servicemen and their service. They are patriots.”

Mike Shydlowski

Ken Susnik

n U.S. Army Reserves

n Army

n 7 years of service. Rank

n 1959-62

at discharge: SP5D (1976)

n Air defense missiles

n Basic Training at Fort

Campbell, Kentucky; AIT at Fort Sill, Oklahoma n MOS: Artillery, trained

on 105 Howitzers and 8” guns. While in St. Louis, transferred to 624th Engineers platoon.

n Earned a BS in Civil Engineering from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin n Ed spent 38 years in the concrete and concrete chemical industry. He retired as CEO and President of Master Builders Inc., shortly after it had been sold to BASF in 1997. He is starting his 15th year of retirement.

I was never deployed. I am proud to be a veteran.

Our son, Christopher, was in the Marines and our son-in-law, Luke, was in the Army Reserves and was deployed in Afghanistan. I cannot tolerate the often disrespect for our flag.”

n Texas, Korea, Detroit n Ken entered the electronics field due to the nature of his service.

After he was educated in electronics, he went into the furniture business. n Moved to Walden to be near family (The Gardens) n Wife - Bette; daughter Audrey, son Brad, 7 grandchildren n Ken enlisted in the Army right after high school graduation. “Glad I did it.” u

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SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS

Gary Weimer

Steve Wells

n May 1, 1968, I was

n Army

n 1973-1975

drafted into the U.S. Army, the highest draft call since WWII. Ft. Jackson, SC for basic training and Ft. Sill, OK for artillery.

n U.S. Army rank:

Specialist 5, Public Information. (Not an aviator but logged in many flight hours).

n Deployed to South

Vietnam in 1968, serving 14 months. Assigned to 23rd Artillery Group in III Corps (largest in Vietnam), as artilleryman with duties as public information officer/correspondent. Traveled throughout Saigon, covering six artillery battalions, with fire support bases in support of infantry operations. Filed hundreds of news releases on 23rd Artillery personnel in action, plus artillery photo features released to Pacific Stars and Stripes, Associated Press and other wire services. n Flew all kinds of helicopters... observation, Hueys,

Chinook, cargo. Flew with AO pilot, artillery aerial observation missions in “Bird Dog” Piper Cub aircraft.

Awarded Bronze Star for Service and Air Medal for hours logged in combat zone.

n Gary returned to the USA from Vietnam with an

n Fort Campbell, KY First Airborne n Moved to Walden 15 years ago (The Landings) n Wife - Kathy n Steve grew up in small-

town America, originally from Grand Junction, Colorado, then moved to Champaign, Illinois in junior high. He benefited from meeting people of diversity while in the service. He moved to Cleveland in 2004 on a work transfer.

n Steve returned to college with the GI Bill. Then he

graduated from the University of Illinois with a BS in Business Administration and later earned an MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University. n “I worked in corrugated manufacturing and sales for

two companies: Georgia Pacific and Inland Container (now International Paper), gaining increasing responsibilities. At my retirement, I had full P&L responsibility for six box plants in the Midwest.”

n “All veterans gave some of their lives but some gave all for our freedom we enjoy today. God Bless America and ALL who have served.” u

Honorable Discharge in December 1969. n Has lived in Aurora over 35 years, 16 in Walden Farms

(Arrowhead Association). Gary served 8 years on the Board of Directors, including terms as President and Vice President. n Wife - Betsy; 2 adult children; 4 grandchildren in Hudson and Denver. n “After college and the military, for over 20 years,

34

I served in executive positions in higher education at Oberlin College, UC Santa Barbara, Case Western Reserve and Hiram (Vice President), followed by nearly 20 years in healthcare philanthropy as Director of Development and Sr. VP at UH, and Sr. Director of Development at Cleveland Clinic, retiring in 2010.”

WALDEN LIFE

“All veterans gave some of their lives but some gave all for our freedom we enjoy today. God Bless America and ALL who have served.”

—Steve Wells

George Balog

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Country Club Builders & Remodelers will work with you on your project from the preliminary design and estimating phase all the way through construction. If you already have a professional design, we will work with that design to produce a line-item specification with all the details necessary to give you a firm price on your project.

We’ll discuss what you want to accomplish with your remodeling project, any special needs, and what type of investment you want to make in your home. During our first visit to your home we will discuss the project, take photographs, measurements and explain how Country Club Builders & Remodelers performs the design and planning process.

Start your project by calling us today or filling out our online form to request a callback. www.CCBuildersRemodelers.com George Balog 330.608.3131

SALUTE TO OUR VETERANS

T

his memorial tribute was provided by Tara Lynn Bohrer’s father and Walden resident Skip Bohrer.

Skip bought his first condo in Walden in 1992 in the Clairages. While here, he met his wife Joyce in 1994. They moved to Brandon Circle in 1995.

Skip formed Concept Communities and built more than 500 condominiums in five developments over 10 years: two in Tallmadge, one in Brunswick, one at Boulder Creek in Streetsboro and Tara at Barrington. Skip and his company developed and built Tara at Barrington in Aurora in honor of his daughter, who passed away from Gulf War Syndrome after serving in the Persian Gulf.

“The street names are the streets she grew up on. We added a memorial trail around the lake at the rear.

Her son Tommy officially opened Tara the day we had the grand opening,” said Skip.

In Memory of Tara Lynn Bohrer

(04/15/71-11/18/02)

n US Air Force - AFC n Stationed in Pensacola Fla. 1991-1992. While serving, she became ill with Gulf War Syndrome from the Persian Gulf War. n Tara always studied about the military services.

At Upper Arlington High School in Columbus, she wrote her senior paper about the Vietnam War. This earned her a scholarship to Ohio State and the ROTC program.

n She was 6 feet tall and weighed 115 pounds.

At the age of 15, she was a model for American Models in Paris, France for two summers.

As a runner, she competed on four national championship cross country teams.

n “Tara was a free spirit but very shy because of her

height,” her father explained. “She was a beautiful soul.” n She had 3 children after her honorable discharge

from the Air Force. n Gulf War Syndrome was caused by the chemicals in the air over the oil fields in Yemen. When Tara’s oldest son was born, he did not grow until the doctors discovered the chemicals in his system.

He had to take very strong steroids to combat the

chemicals. Today, he is 25 with three children of his own. The steroids and other medicine were not readily available to veterans because, at that time, Gulf War Syndrome was not acknowledged by the U.S. Government, very similar to the denial of Agent Orange that Vietnam vets had to deal with when they came home. Tara succumbed to her lungs filling with fluid and cancer of her spine.

TO ALL WHO SERVED THIS COUNTRY WITH YOUR MILITARY SERVICE...

Thank you for your bravery, for protecting our country, and for all you did to make this country safe. With gratitude for your service to America on Veterans Day and always.

36

WALDEN LIFE

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www.CertifiedCarrie.com N O V / D E C 2 0 21

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NEWS These pages brought to you by Club Walden

Creating Memories & Upholding Holiday Traditions at Walden

W

alden has always been passionate about providing thoughtful resources and amenities that allow members to create enchanted memories that last a lifetime... especially during the holiday season.

NOVEMBER 4 Taste and purchase your holiday wines on November 4 at the Clubhouse with a Holiday Wine Tasting. Chef Matt will offer small bites to enjoy as you taste a variety of wines for your holiday tables and gift-giving. Laura Miller from Southern Wines will be in the house to suggest some labels you may never have tried! $25 per person for the tasting.

NOVEMBER 24 The Thanksgiving Buffet will be filled with a bounty of scrumptious salads, sides and desserts. Consider our kale-apple salad with apple cider vinaigrette and roasted beet salad with pistachios, goat cheese and citrus dressing. Who can resist our chef’s butternut squash bisque, cornbread-crusted cod with tomato mascarpone sauce, candied sweet potatoes or white cheddar whipped potatoes? And don’t forget chef carving stations of pasture-raised turkey and roasted sirloin filet. The dessert bar will be filled with an array of pies, tarts, cakes and more.

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WALDEN LIFE

Santa at Club Walden

A newer tradition over the past few years has been our Thanksgivingto-Go service. Members order their entire meal or just a few sides, desserts or simply turkey. The meals are all pre-cooked and just need to be reheated and served at home.

This year, we are trying something new and offering Thanksgiving-to-Go a day ahead, November 24.

We have many families that celebrate the day before with one side of the family and we feel it will make things more relaxing on Thanksgiving Day for families to wake up with their meal already in the house. They can simply reheat it at their leisure without having to rush out of the house on the holiday to pick it up! This service

is open to the public, so you are welcome to call and inquire about ordering Thanksgiving-to-Go! Contact Heather at 330-995-3104 or email inquiries to heather@yourwalden.com.

DECEMBER 4 The Members Holiday Party is always a fun event! This year, we will host the Members Holiday Party on Friday, December 10. Members dress up in cocktail attire and enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails throughout the Clubhouse. It is a great night to spend with fellow members and celebrate friendship and the holiday season. The Clubhouse is always tastefully decorated, the trees in the

WALDEN NEWS

front lobby have been a welcome addition in the past years. Christmas is a magical time of year, and Walden is honored that so many families entrust their holiday dining and parties to Walden.

DECEMBER 4 Santa kicks off the Christmas season with Breakfast with Santa in early December. Members enjoy a festive breakfast together and then the children and grandchildren have a chance to sit with Santa in his sleigh and have a photo taken with him and share their cherished Christmas list with the man himself!

DECEMBER 24 Then we’ll have a beautiful Christmas Eve Candlelight Buffet at the Clubhouse. Chef Matt creates a beautiful display to tempt every palate while over at The Barn, Chef Thomas welcomes members and their guests to an a la carte dinner menu... but

his specials are longer than Santa’s Christmas list! The Barn sells out every Christmas Eve, so if you have not made a reservation yet, pick up the phone now and call! Members can reserve by calling 330-562-7136 or via online dining reservation on the website yourwalden.com/dining.

DECEMBER 31 Ring in the New Year at The Barn’s New Year’s Eve Gala. We highly encourage this to be a Black Tie event! The evening begins with dinner at 8 p.m., dancing to a live band, and a champagne toast at midnight. If you prefer a quiet New Year’s Eve at Home... join us for an early dinner at the Clubhouse or The Barn. Dinner wraps up at both locations by 8 p.m. and allows you plenty of time to make it home, settle in front of the fireplace, wrap up in a cozy blanket and watch the ball drop from Time Square.

YOUR HOLIDAY PARTIES Looking to host a family or corporate event this holiday season? Let us help you. Walden is happy to host your private dinner party for family or your corporate event at any of our three properties. We still have some dates available for the upcoming holiday season. Contact Sarah at Inn Walden (330-995-7160), Eric at The Barn (330-562-7136) or Patrick at Club Walden (330-995-3131).

Join us for dinner on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Make your reservations soon!

It’s a winter wonderland inside Club Walden.

N O V / D E C 2 0 21

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BACK IN THE DAY

Why Stop at One? Pilarczyks Enjoy 10 Walden Homes Over 38 Years

By Estelle R. Brown Back in the day, Rich Pilarczyk and his wife, Sandra, used to take weekend drives out to the countryside from their home in Bedford. In the ‘70s, they casually watched as the concept of Walden began to materialize in rural Aurora. They found both the condos and the stand-alone homes to be very appealing, so it was difficult to settle on one or the other.

So by the time they set their sights on a custom condominium built for them by Manny Barenholtz in 1983, it was simply the first of 10 homes at Walden they fell in love with over the years. With Walden’s 621 properties comprising 533 condominiums and 89 individual homes, it’s been difficult to decide which home to choose.

They started with a condo on Concord Downs Lane, then moved to a Deer Island condo, then relocated to an Antler Point home, moved on to a stand-alone house on Arbor Way, then chose a Chandler’s Cove condo and Red Fawn Path place at Deer Island…

“We watched Walden as it took shape.

Concord Downs Lane started the parade.

We’ve been in a lot of places in Walden.

We’ve bounced around quite a bit. Every home has been great.”

—RICH PILARCZYK

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WALDEN LIFE

That’s only about half of the Walden homes the Pilarczyks have enjoyed, but you get the idea. Nowadays, Rich and Sandra are enjoying the pastoral views of horses in fields while sipping wine from their home at Walden Farms.

Retired for the most part now, Rich is still “dabbling” in the global health care technology business he founded years ago, Patient Data Management (PDM), which created a patient-centric Blockchain Medical Records platform.

PDM’s mobile app provides health care professionals and patients access to data currently stored in various siloed locations.

“My son-in-law Lee leads the pack now,” Rich says. “I stick my nose back in it whenever he needs my help.”

The Pilarczyks’ daughters, Janice and Karyn, loved growing up within the Walden community, where there was always something fun to do and friends to be found. Holidays were made special, with lively decorations and special visitors like Santa to spice things up.

Now Janice and her husband (Lee Shorts) live at Walden Farms while Karyn and her husband (Leonard Stusek) reside at Four Seasons, also in Aurora.

REMEMBER WHEN PLUS FOURS WERE ALL THE RAGE? Rich treasures many memories of days gone by, from entertaining evenings at Walden’s Bogey Bar to fun times with old friends at the Club. But among

his favorite memories were the annual Plus Four Tournaments, where golfers would wear antiquated knickerbockers that extend four inches below the knee (hence the name).

Plus fours were inspired by World War I British officers who wore loose riding breeches that bloused out over the tops of their boots. Plus fours were introduced in the 1920s and became popular among sportsmen, particularly golfers and game shooters, since they allowed more freedom of movement than at-the-knee knickerbockers.

They enjoyed a resurgence, thanks to professional golfer Payne Stewart, who wore them on the PGA Tour (1982-1999). Plus fours are typically paired with knee socks and argyle sweaters, styles worn by 1930s-era Ivy League athletes.

A LIVING LEGACY Another memory Rich treasures is one that offers lasting beauty and shade to Walden golfers. Back in the late 1980s, Rich had a tree planted at Hole #2 in honor of his mother-in-law, Helen Wolfe.

Rich says,” I don’t golf anymore but the tree is still there. It’s quite an honor.”

Looking back over nearly 40 years, the Pilarczyks are happy their weekend drives brought them home to Walden… to all 10 of them!

M A G A Z I N E’ S HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST The Walden Life Team will be checking out all of the holiday decorations at the Walden residences including Walden Farms and will vote on the favorite home and association.

Winners will be announced in the Jan/Feb issue.

PHOTO COURTESY: PETER & MURIEL FRENCH

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NEIGHBOR TO NEIGHBOR

Kathi Grandillo Service with a Smile

By Miriam Conner

Kathi at Daisy Alford-Smith’s Golf Outing at Walden.

Kathi receiving the Person of the Year Award 2017.

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WALDEN LIFE

You probably know Kathi Grandillo. Kathi has always been involved in Walden and Aurora and she selflessly gives her time to her community. She will always greet you with a smile and positive attitude. She was the first female to serve on the Walden Advisory Board and served as president for two terms.

During her first year on the board, she was in charge of the social committee. Kathi was also the treasurer for the Walden Home Owners Association (HOA) for several years. In 2006, she was a member of the city’s planning commission before being appointed to council in 2012.

Kathi still serves as our Ward 5 Councilwoman. One of the things Kathi focuses on in her position is communication.

She sends emails and updates through social media pages regularly to keep her constituents informed. Kathi “likes making decisions that she feels are right for the city and enjoys working with a great group of council members and directors.”

Kathi grew up in Willoughby Hills and attended Lake Catholic High School. After graduation, her parents moved to Solon. She attended court reporting school downtown.

Kathi’s parents moved from Solon to Walden in 1985.

When she married her husband, Greg, in 1987 at the club, she always said she wanted to live in Walden. Kathi and Greg looked at other places, but kept coming back to Walden. They found a condo on Windward Drive and moved to Walden in 1989.

Greg worked in industrial advertising for Thomas Register Industrial Advantage for 20+ years. He currently

Swearing in after the 2017 election for Council Ward 5.

NEIGHBOR TO NEIGHBOR

York. When their sons moved out, Greg and Kathi moved back into their original condo on Windward.

Kathi enjoyed women’s golf on Tuesday evenings as she was working downtown at her court reporting firm, Corsillo and Grandillo Court Reporting. Kathi was a court reporter for 32 years, but decided to change career paths in 2012 due to the traveling her previous business required.

She now works for Walden resident Sean Johnson in customer service and sales administration at RFI Technology Solutions, which covers everything from payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, ordering stock, banking, order entry and invoicing customers.

For fun, she now golfs two to three times a year and often goes to the Club. She says she “loves the Club and the Barn.”

Kathi describes Walden as a beautiful, quiet and peaceful place. The people are friendly and she says you can be very involved if you want to, but you can have your privacy if you want to, as well. She still has friends she met here in 1989. Kathi always enjoyed the HOA picnics and she now enjoys “Fridays at the Rocks” in the Landings.

She loves living in Walden and doesn’t think of ever moving anywhere else.

(L-R) Kathi, Sean, Kyle and Greg Grandillo.

works in industrial advertising for Total Web Partners.

When they had their sons, Sean and Kyle, they moved to Cross Creek Oval. Sean, an actor, is currently living in New York and recently landed the lead role in a traveling show, “Oklahoma.” Sean has also had roles on “Law & Order,” “Blue Bloods” and “The Scream” TV show. Kyle is living in Nashville and is an engineer for Cumulus Media. Kyle will be getting married next year and will also be moving to New

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43

GROWING UP WALDEN

Jim Rudolph Bookends parents bought a house on Glen Eden.

My wife and I bought a house here in 1997 on Cross Creek Oval and have been back ever since. Our two kids, Jessica (now 31) and Jay (now 28), also grew up here in Walden. Our daughter was 7 and our son was 4 when we moved in. They enjoyed growing up here.”

“I didn’t know if we were going to be able to pull it off,” Jim says of those days with a double mortgage.

“But it all worked out and we’re very fortunate to be here. It’s a wonderful place to live and we don’t plan on going anywhere.”

WHY WALDEN?

2021 Family Vacation in Colorado: (L-R) Heidi and Jim Rudolph: Brooklyn, Jessica and Brian Kocak; and Jay Rudolph.

By Estelle R. Brown He couldn’t stay away.

After growing up here in the mid-1970s and graduating in 1981 from Aurora High School with more than a dozen other kids from Walden, Jim Rudolph brought his wife Heidi and their two young children to live in Walden so they could enjoy the built-in sense of fun and community that Jim wanted to return to.

Jim had tried life “on the outside” after getting married in 1986 following 44

WALDEN LIFE

graduation from Wittenberg University, where he and Heidi met. They first lived in South Euclid, Lyndhurst and then Twinsburg, where they built a house. But when they saw their dream house while visiting at Walden in 1997, they jumped at the opportunity and moved here, even though their Twinsburg house didn’t sell for several months.

Jim explains, “I did grow up here, as my parents were early members of Walden. We lived in Four Seasons until I was around 12 when my

Jim loves Walden’s resort lifestyle, where you can enjoy work-life balance without the hassles of wasting time in traffic between work and play. He can put in a half-day of work in the morning, then play a round of golf, then return to work before enjoying the evening at home. He’s got it all.

The Rudolphs also enjoy holidays at Walden. They always look forward to the traditional Christmas Eve dinner at The Barn. Most other days, you’ll find Jim at Walden’s exercise room— especially on the elliptical machine— or the golf course. “I used to play paddle tennis here at Walden when we had courts, but Heidi does play tennis at our great clay courts.”

LIFE CYCLES When he was a kid, Jim says that Walden was a community of young families, so it was easy to make friends and get involved in the fun activities Walden offered at the pool, on the nine-hole golf course, grabbing hot dogs at The Grille, and along the trails. But when he and his young family moved back in the ’90s, The PHOTO COURTESY WALDENOFAURORA.COM

GROWING UP WALDEN

“The best thing about living here is the beauty of Walden and it feels like you’re living at a resort when you can jump in your own golf cart and head up to the Club.”

—JIM RUDOLPH

Grille was gone and now a beautiful new clubhouse stood by the expanded 18-hole course. Walden had become a community of empty nesters.

The only kids around tended to be the grandchildren of Walden members and residents. Now, he says the

Walden community has come full circle and there’s a great balance of all ages and life stages here.

“Walden is back to its original state with lots of kids here again,” Jim says.

“Manny was way ahead of his time with his vision of Walden.”

CHANGING SEASONS Now, Jim and Heidi are the empty nesters. They bring their granddaughter Brooklyn to splash in the pool when her parents, Jessica and Brian, visit from Columbus. Jay, who lives in the Tremont/Ohio City area of Cleveland, also enjoys playing golf here with his dad and old friends from the Walden neighborhood.

Jim and Heidi are celebrating their 35th anniversary this year. Heidi has

retired after 31 years of teaching math at Orange High School and is enjoying her return to artwork (Humble Art by Heidi).

Jim has been in sales management for the steel industry for 22 years.

After his previous employer went out of business, he went to work for a former competitor last year. Having experienced 80 days of unemployment in between the two, Jim realized he wasn’t ready to golf full-time.

“Work is still fun for me so I’m not ready to retire yet,” he says. “Besides, demand is up 30% higher than ever, so I’m very busy!”

“Living here is an incredible experience,” Jim concludes. “The best thing about living here is the beauty of Walden and it feels like you’re living at a resort when you can jump in your own golf cart and head up the Club.”

N O V / D E C 2 0 21

45

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46

WALDEN LIFE

WALDEN KITCHENS

Pumpkin Cheesecake WITH BRANDY SNAP GARNISH & CARAMEL SAUCE

(Yield: 12 servings)

From Chef Rebecca Hess Blue Ribbon Caféėat Inn Walden What could possibly tantalize your taste buds better during pumpkin spice season than this caramelly, rich pumpkin cheesecake with a toasty graham cracker crust? This five-part recipe takes more time than you may expect, so give yourself a couple days for best results.

FOR THE CRUST n 2 cups graham cracker crumbs n 3 tbls sugar n 4 tbls melted butter n Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Mix all ingredients together until graham cracker crumbs are thoroughly moistened.

Spray a 12-inch springform pan with pan spray.

Then press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the pan and slightly up the sides.

Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees until golden in color, about 15-20 minutes.

Set aside to cool. Meanwhile, make the batter.

FOR THE CHEESECAKE BATTER n 3 lbs cream cheese n 1 lb sugar n 1 tsp vanilla n 8 eggs n 1 (15-ounce) can of pure pumpkin puree

Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, whip the cream cheese with the sugar until soft and fluffy.

Add the vanilla then gently fold in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.

Separate the batter into two bowls. Fold the pumpkin into one of the batters.

RECIPE CONTINUES u N O V / D E C 2 0 21

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WALDEN KITCHENS

PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE WITH BRANDY SNAP GARNISH & CARAMEL SAUCE

RECIPE, CONTINUED

Drop each batter alternately, 1 cup at a time, into the baked crust. Using a butter knife, in a number 8 motion, swirl the two batters together for a marbled appearance.

Wrap the bottom and sides of the springform pan with aluminum foil. Place into a 13-by-9-inch cake pan.

Pour about 4 cups of boiling water into the pan to create a water bath.

Place into the oven and bake for 1 hour or until the cheesecake is jiggly and firm to the touch in the center. Let cool overnight.

To remove from the springform pan, run a knife under hot water then gently run the knife around the sides of the cheesecake then unlatch the springform pan.

Gently release the pan from the sides of the cake.

Using an offset spatula, run the spatula under hot water then gently slide it underneath the cheesecake to release the cake from the bottom of the springform pan.

Slice into 12 pieces.

FOR THE BRANDY SNAP GARNISH n 8 ounces all-purpose flour n 8 ounces sugar n 8 ounces corn syrup

n 1 ½ cups sugar n ¼ cup water n 1 tbls butter n 2 cups heavy cream

In a small stainless steel bowl, mix the water and sugar until the sugar has slightly dissolved.

Transfer to a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, turn down to medium and let the mixture come to a dark golden color. Once desired color is achieved, remove from heat and stir in the butter.

Return to the heat and add the heavy cream. The caramel will seize into a ball; this is normal. Bring the mixture back up to a boil at medium heat. Stirring continuously, simmer until the mixture thickens and all of the caramel has melted into the heavy cream.

Continue to simmer for two more minutes.

Remove from the heat and let it cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.

FOR FINAL PRESENTATION

Let cool in the refrigerator for a half-hour. Roll into ½ -inch balls. Place onto a Silpat mat 2 inches apart from each other.

On each individual slice of cake, press the edge of the brandy snap cookie into the top layer. Lay an herb such as mint or rosemary sprigs next to the brandy snap cookie. Then drizzle the caramel sauce across the top of the cake and onto the plate in a pinstripe pattern. The caramel sauce will naturally pool onto the plate. As an option, you can also use fall edible flowers, such as mums, in place of the herbs for a more fall seasonal effect.

Bake in the oven at 425 degrees F until dark golden/brown in color.

The final result will be both delicious and aesthetically pleasing to everyone around your table!

n 8 ounces softened unsalted butter

Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, whip all of the ingredients together until fully combined and dough is formed.

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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FOR THE CARAMEL SAUCE

WALDEN LIFE

Marketplace If you would like to advertise, please contact Leslie Fletcher at 440.785.3110 or Leslie@MyWaldenLife.com.

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Sandra Myers Realtor ®, RRS As a professional Realtor® and a 15 year resident of Walden Farms, I look forward to helping you find a new home or sell your current Walden home.

For a home valuation, visit: homevalue.howardhanna.com/sandramyers Email: SandraMyers@howardhanna.com Cell: 216.409.0305 Office: 330.562.6188 195 Barrington Town Square Aurora, Ohio 44202 N O V / D E C 2 0 21

49

REFLECTIONS

“The fire is the main comfort of the camp, whether in summer or winter, and is about as ample at one season as at another. It is as well for cheerfulness as for warmth and dryness.”

— H E N RY D AV I D T H O R E A U

T H E F I R E P L A C E AT C L U B W A L D E N

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WALDEN LIFE

S E P T / O C T 2 0 21

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M I C H A E L R. B A L O G

“It has always been my vision to improve the real estate industry and how people buy and sell their homes. This goal of mine has fueled a burning passion to provide unmatched value and unprecedented service to each and every person I interact with on a daily basis.

This is the key to my success.”

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Michael R. Balog, Realtor

195 Barrington Town Square Aurora, Ohio 44202

330.802.4874 Michaelbalog@howardhanna.com MichaelRBalog.com

ENJOY WINTER AT WALDEN!