Salt Flavor for Everyday Life|February/March 2016|$3 A supplement of The Lima News
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2 | Salt | February/March 2016
Smiles From Our Family to Yours!
Salt
Hide & Shake Find the shaker in this issue and be entered to win a $10 grocery card. Visit our website, thesaltmagazine.com, and click on the Shaker Contest link at the top to be entered. All entries must be received by Feb. 25, 2016. Only electronic entries will be accepted. In the December/January issue, the shaker was hidden on Page 15 in the top left photo. Congratulations to our most recent winner, Jean Oden of Lima. You could be our next winner!
Flavor for Everyday Life www.thesaltmagazine.com February/March 2016
Publisher Editor Food Editor Layout Design Content Sales
Pamela Stricker Lora Abernathy Andrea Chaffin Jayla Wallingford Adrienne McGee Sterrett Natalie Buzzard
pstricker@civitasmedia.com labernathy@civitasmedia.com achaffin@civitasmedia.com jwallingford@civitasmedia.com amcgeesterrett@civitasmedia.com nbuzzard@civitasmedia.com
Contact Salt: editor@thesaltmagazine.com 3515 Elida Road, Lima OH 45807 419-223-1010 Salt is published six times a year by Civitas Media LLC and is available through The Lima News. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue, in whole or in part, is prohibited. Salt is free to The Lima News subscribers and is also available for purchase at the office of The Lima News.
On the Cover Sara’s Sweets opened its storefront Dec. 15 in Lima. This photo was taken by Graham Goebel.
Please buy locally and recycle. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest @TheSaltMagazine.
Jed Metzger
Front Porch
Profile By Lora Abernathy
What movie deserves a sequel? “Rain Man” because it was a great movie with a great message, and I feel that there is a bigger story that could be told. What makes you pound your fist on the table? When a collaborative project comes together that impacts the quality of life for our community or individuals. Which are worse: spiders or snakes? I feel that snakes are worse due to the fact that they are slimy and can sneak up on you from time to time.
What piece of advice would you give to your younger self? Two thoughts: Do what you say you’re going to do, and treat others how you want to be treated. What is your ringtone? My ringtone currently is the Xylophone, but I change the ringtone from time to time. What do you love most about your community? I love the Lima/Allen County community because people are friendly, giving of their time, the location is close to bigger cities, and people work together to get things accomplished.
Salt | February/March 2016 | 3
Front Porch Profile offers a personal glimpse into the lives of notable people in our communities
President/CEO Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce
Salt CONTENTS
features
4 | Salt | February/March 2016
3 8 10 11 12 14 18 21 22 28 30
8
Front Porch Profile Pat’s promises plenty of paczkis Husband’s books spark memories Recipe Index Adopting a new friend
10
Pysanky: An ancient art form for modern times Readers share their favorite pet stories Local dog parks Sara’s Sweets fills gourmet cupcake niche Out & About The perfect partnership
14
columns
6 7 26
Publisher’s note
By Pamela Stricker
Salt notes
By Lora Abernathy
I like my dog better than you By Andrea Chaffin
26
Salt Contributors ADRIENNE MCGEE STERRETT Adrienne is the lifestyle/ special sections editor for The Lima News. She believes everyone has a life story worth sharing. Reach her at 567-242-0510 or amcgeesterrett@civitasmedia.com.
LIZ YOUNG Liz is a freelance writer for The Lima News. She is a special education teacher for the Allen County Board of Developmental Disabilities. In her free time, she enjoys reading, movies and spending time with family.
AMY EDDINGS Amy writes for The Lima News. She’s a former New Yorker and public radio host. When she’s not writing, she’s canning, cooking, quilting and gardening. Reach her at 567-242-0379, aedddings@civitasmedia.com or on Twitter @lima_eddings.
MICHELLE STEIN Michelle is a freelance writer for The Lima News. You can also find her work online as a news blogger for a parenting website, babycenter.com. When she’s not training for marathons, writing for various publications or running around her two (soon to be three!) young children, she’s probably drinking coffee … or sleeping. DANAE KING Danae is a reporter for The Lima News. Reach her at 567-242-0511 or on Twitter @DanaeKing.
Just this past Thanksgiving, my mother-in-law passed these down to my daughter. These originally belonged to my husband’s great-grandmother. She apparently had a huge salt and pepper shaker collection. My mother-in-law shared how she loved to look at her collection as a little girl and loved these “outhouses” in particular. She added that she had to use the outhouse at her grandma’s to use the restroom. Pamela Bauer Clinton County Health Commissioner In each issue of Salt, we try to feature photos of creative salt and pepper shakers from our readers’ collections. Please submit photos and descriptions to editor@thesaltmagazine.com by Feb. 25, 2016 for consideration for printing in a future issue.
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GREG HOERSTEN Greg is a sort-of retired page designer and reporter for The Lima News who, occasionally, works as a freelance reporter. His stories normally appear on the Reminisce page on Wednesday in the News.
Salt Shakers
d r o w e n o y M
6 | Salt | February/March 2016
Photo by Craig J. Orosz
Around the end of the year, I begin contemplating a new word for the next year. It’s been my practice now for the last seven or eight years. I was inspired by the idea when I heard someone sharing about their “word” on the radio. I decided to check out the referenced website and have been doing it ever since. This process has replaced the traditional list of New Year’s resolutions that tend to be broken by February and forgotten till the following January. This has been such a successful experiment for me. Here’s how it works, from the website, myoneword.org: Step 1: Determine the kind of person you want to become The first step is to simply take some time and decide what kind of person you want to be at the end of this year. This goes beyond simply being healthier and wealthier, but it must drive deep into your soul. What about the condition of your heart? What about the person that God Himself has created you to be? Step 2: Identify the characteristics of that person Get a picture of that person and then simply identify their major characteristics. Is that person gentle? Is that person generous? What are the qualities of the person you want to become? Step 3: Pick a word Once you have a list of the characteristics, simply pick a word. There might be 15 things that you want to change, but you must resist the temptation to promise you will do them all. Instead, simply commit to ONE WORD. This will provide you with a lens to see the changes you need to make, as well as a way to determine whether or not change is actually happening. Understand that this process is hard, but staying focused on your word will help you to struggle in the right direction so that you can actually see God working in your life. The changes have been significant over the years I have done this. I can look back and see that I am not the person I was when I started. The study of the word, exploring examples, facing the challenges that come and tempt me to give up on staying the course are all part of the journey. And the challenges do come! You have probably heard it said not to pray for patience because patience is produced by going through trials. I think every time a person begins to choose a better life, challenge can be expected. I chose the word “gentle” a few years ago (much to my husband’s delight), and my desire to become a more gentle person was challenged almost daily. Change didn’t happen until I quit giving in, determined to change, prayed for change, studied and “ate” the word, till it became part of who I am. So, this year, I am choosing the word “joy.” I am a pretty joyful person usually, but I want to know a deeper sense of joy in my life. I don’t want the circumstances around me to dictate my joy or lack thereof. I am not talking about being happy … happy depends on circumstance or what others do to you. I want that calm assurance and settled-down peace even when all hell is breaking loose around me. It’s even better to do this exercise with a friend. I have shared the experience with some of my close friends, and we meet and discuss our journey with our one word. We encourage and pray each other through to the end of the year. I would love to hear from you if you choose your word for 2016. Let’s make changes together. In the meantime, here’s another word I don’t want you to forget … please pass the “Salt!”
Pamela Stricker Publisher pstricker@civitasmedia.com
Salt Scoop Send us your favorite recipe. We may feature it in the next issue.
Every submitted recipe will be entered in a drawing for a $25 grocery card.
In terms of
Great Dane-ness I looked across the park and noticed an older couple walking a giant dog. I gasped in awe at its size, its beauty — and its good behavior. It was a Great Dane. I wanted one. Enter Bela. Our bright-eyed, happy Great Dane has been with us nearly 12 years. Not too bad for a dog whose kind only live six to nine years. But if the Great Dane breed hadn’t been right for us, we would have picked a different dog. That was not the case. Known as the “gentle giants” of the dog world, Danes are great around kids, intelligent, friendly, and require less grooming and exercise than other breeds. Perfect. “Friendly” might have been an understatement. Our beautiful girl loves people and has never met a stranger. Any time she hears the word “wow” from people while their car window is down and we’re out walking, she asBela and I pose for a picture after she graduated from puppy sumes they’re talking about school July 2, 2004. She was 4 months old. her. She’s not wrong. The ears go back as she hopes they slow down, stop and come pet her. The “less exercise” requirement for the Dane could easily be changed to “a quick walk up and down the driveway.” I knew she wouldn’t be wired like a border collie, but these dogs are serious couch potatoes. Bela loves going for walks, but can’t wait to come back in and curl up between the pillows on our bed or the arms of a chair that’s really too small for her. She’s always been easy to train and eager to learn. She’s not a complainer, either. In almost 12 years, I’ve only heard her yelp twice. She’s been a very healthy dog, and has never been on medication except for the occasional infection. She’s wildly content to lay on the couch, look out the window, and wait for her next ear rub. Arthritis is taking a toll on her bones faster than we wish. Medicine seems to help, but we know “the day” will come soon. “When Danes go, they go fast,” another Dane parent recently told us. “When she’s ready to go, we can come to the house,” the vet told me in December during her annual visit. Their words now echo too frequently in my head. Bela’s still got pep in what’s left of her step, though, and meets us with cheer and exuberance at the door most days when we come home. If she’s not at the door, she’s in her chair, ears back, ready to be greeted and adored from the comfort of her throne. My life has been richer since we brought her home. Other than my husband, that sweet, beautiful dog is my favorite human. LORA ABERNATHY Lora is the editor of Salt magazine. Originally from West Virginia and a proud Marshall University alumna, she lives in Hillsboro, Ohio, with her husband, Gary, is mom to a Great Dane and yellow Lab, and trains and competes in triathlons. Reach her at labernathy@ civitasmedia.com or on Twitter @AbernathyLora.
Salt | February/March 2016 | 7
Visit our website, thesaltmagazine.com, and click on the Recipe Submission link at the top to be entered. Include a photo of your dish, as well. All entries must be received by Feb. 25, 2016.
SaltNotes
Pat’s promises plenty of paczkis By Greg Hoersten In the days leading up to Lent, Pat’s Donuts and Kreme undergoes a change of pastry as the doughnuts and filled sticks that normally fill the shelves are crowded out by paczkis. “On Fat Tuesday, we’ll have nothing but paczkis. We might have a few doughnuts off to the side,” said Ed Ezzelle, who owns Pat’s along with his wife, Michelle. “It’s a supply-and-demand thing. I just can’t produce all the paczkis plus all the other doughnuts in a 16-hour day, because that’s about how long it’s taking us to make all the paczkis we need to fill our orders and supply our customers.” Long a favorite way to get “one big last sugar rush in before Lent starts” in cities with large Polish-American populations, paczkis are like jelly doughnuts “on steroids” — a little bigger, a little thicker, with more milk, more butter, more flavorings, according to Ezzelle, who promised the paczki will be on the shelves by Feb. 1. Fat Tuesday falls on Feb. 9.
“It’s a big thing now in Lima,” he said. It wasn’t always so. “The first year we tried it (about a decade ago), we couldn’t give a paczki away,” said Ezzelle, a Delphos native who picked up a fondness for paczkis while working in Toledo. “We probably made 30 or 40 dozen for all our stores, but we couldn’t give them away. By year two, it started picking up a little bit. By year three, we couldn’t keep up. So, by year four, we knew what we were in for and now it’s our biggest day of the year. It’s something I have to start planning for weeks in advance.” Ezzelle estimated Pat’s employees — the firm’s three locations employ 44 people — produce around 400 dozen doughnuts on a weekday with that number swelling to 750 to 800 dozen doughnuts on a Saturday. “We’re doing close to 1,200 dozen (paczkis) for Fat Tuesday. We do all of our flavors. I came up with that idea. Most traditional paczkis are a prune flavor.
Photos by Craig J. Orosz
Kierra Crisp frosts a tray of vanilla cake doughnuts by hand.
8 | Salt | February/March 2016
Where to get yours... Pat’s Donuts & Kreme has three outlets in the Lima area. All the pastry is produced at the shop at 2102 Elida Road, which is open 24 hours a day. In addition to pastry, sandwiches and pizza also are available. “We make our own pizza dough and sometimes, especially on a Friday night, it feels like we’re a pizzeria making doughnuts,” owner Ed Ezzelle said. “The ‘Kreme’ actually stands for ice cream and we have ice cream in our stores as well.” The shop at 662 Elida Ave. in Delphos offers the same menu items as the Elida Road location. It is open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., while the outlet at 1835 Harding Highway is open from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Harding Highway location has only pastry and coffee. Pat’s doughnuts also are available at Padrone’s Pizza shops in Wapakoneta and at South Dixie Highway and Breese Road, Kewpee restaurants, Circle K gas stations and “a lot of other little shops throughout the region,” according to Ezzelle.
Ed Ezzelle, owner of Pat’s Donuts & Kreme, holds a tray of fresh-baked Danish and jelly filled doughnuts.
At left, Jessie Derossett fills a tray of cream danish. Below, Kevin Jones pulls a tray of cake doughnuts from a fryer at Pat’s.
We don’t do prunes,” he said. “If you’ve ever had prune juice, you kind of know what you’re getting into.” Pat’s does do paczkis in butter cream, chocolate, vanilla, raspberry, lemon, blueberry and apple as well as Bavarian cream custard. “This year, we might do cherry custard, being that February is cherry month,” Ezzelle said. Ezzelle, who graduated from Delphos St. John’s in 1998 and later the University of Toledo, “grew up in the restaurant business.” His grandparents owned Nu-Maude’s restaurant in Delphos. When he married Michelle, who handles the administrative side of Pat’s, the couple decided to get into the restaurant business. “Somehow, the good Lord led us down here to Lima and we purchased Pat’s,” he said. The couple took over the business in 2005. The Ezzelles bought Pat’s from Henry and Pat Iven, who opened the stores in 1983 after Henry Iven
found himself out of work when the Arthur Treacher’s Fish and Chips restaurant chain closed. The Ivens owned two Arthur Treacher outlets in Lima. Henry named Pat’s after his wife. “I would never change the name,” Ezzelle said. “When I bought the business, I bought the name. Henry has been a great mentor and friend for me. I’m driving the bus Henry built.” He’s driving the bus well. Again this year, readers of The Lima News voted Pat’s doughnuts the best in the region. Ezzelle credited Pat’s popularity to the hard work of the firm’s employees and the fact the doughnuts are made from scratch. “Here, we have employees with a total of 125 years’ experience making doughnuts and they’ve just perfected it,” he said. “We take great pride and care in the doughnut, and I think that sets us apart from the average doughnut that you might get somewhere else.”
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10 | Salt | February/March 2016
By Danae King Will Cook, 90, hopes that one day his love for his wife will take them away together. “I would relish being in the last scene of that movie,” said Will, referring to the movie, “The Notebook.” “The Notebook,” released in 2004, and based on a book by Nicholas Sparks, follows the lives of characters Noah and Allie. They shared young love — like Wapakoneta resident Will and his wife, Pauline, who met in high school, and spent their life together. The movie shows Noah and Allie, nearing the end of their lives, as he reads a story of the beginning of their relationship to her. It reminds Allie, who has the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, who he is and, at the end, they die in her bed together. Will and Pauline’s story is not unlike the film. The two met in high school. He pulled her hair, and she leaned her head back so he could do it. From then on, they were together. She was his first real girlfriend, and he her first real boyfriend. They’ve been married for 69 years and have five children. They have been living apart for seven years, ever since Pauline, also 90, began to show the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and moved into a nursing home. Will started writing to remind her of their life, their travels and memories together. “I wasn’t aware of ‘The Notebook’ at the time I started this,” Will said. “I learned about it later. … I did see the movie ‘The Notebook’ and was feeling like he felt. “When he read to her, she understood,” Will said. When Will reads to Pauline, he can tell that she remembers and knows him, too. She has brief moments of clarity even though she can’t find her words. “She recognized Dad, she recognized me,” said Will’s son, Donald, who first encouraged his father to start writing books. “You can see it in her eyes and her face, how she is trying to emote and communicate that she knows.” For Will’s granddaughter, Alexandra Cook, the books have meant having her grandmother back for a treasured moment.
Photo courtesy of Wil l Cook
“She just gets this look in her eyes. She knows who we are whenever he reads them … she has a look of hope.”
— Alexandra Cook
Wilson Photo by Amanda
Alexandra, 22, was young when her grandmother moved into the nursing home, but she remembers her grandfather reading to Pauline, and the emotion on her grandmother’s face. “She just gets this look in her eyes,” said Alexandra. “She knows who we are whenever he reads them … she has a look of hope.” Alexandra loves these times with her grandmother, who can’t talk much due to her disease. The moments help Alexandra know “she’s still there and she still loves us,” she said. “It’s very comforting. … Having that time with her and having her give me that look.” Writing books for Pauline also taught Will more about her life, her childhood and who she was as a person. For one of the books, titled “Pearls of Pauline,” Will reached out to their family and friends and asked them to write down thoughts and memories of his wife once a week for 20 weeks leading up to her birthday. What came back touched him. He liked that “they honor the memories enough to send it to her,” he said. “We didn’t know how much her life touched others.” In another book Will wrote his wife, titled “I hope I have a husband like you, you bring Pauline roses,” he wrote about their life together in 100 pages — as much as he could bind. It chronicles in photos and words their
visits to the redwood forests in California, Niagara Falls, Devils Tower and other landmarks and destinations. The books he writes — some for himself and his family, in addition to those for Pauline — aren’t meant for widespread publication. They’re just for the Cooks. “It was fun to do it and the fact that I had the mental capacity to be able to recall … My mental capacity has held steady,” he said. Though it seems as though he has a romantic soul, Will doesn’t speak in flowery language or get poetic about his relationship with his wife. They met in high school and, looking back, he says they got together because “I think we both thought, ‘I’m lucky to get anybody.’ ”
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Recipe Index
He couldn’t say why they’d stuck together for most of their lives, just that “we stuck together just because we did.” “I can’t say how or what,” he said. Will and Pauline had 62 years together before she started losing her memory. “We just stuck it out,” Will said. “She probably had unfulfilled dreams of what marriage should be, as I have had … but we didn’t go to war about it.” He mused about how today, people just give up on relationships. Still, he’d recommend other couples in a similar situation write books for their significant other. “Why not?” he said. “Of course. You need something to tie yourselves together.” Next for Will is “crawling into bed with her. I have no plans beyond that.”
Adopting a new friend Many avenues exist for adopting a new pet in the area. Be sure to check petfinder.com, as most area organizations use it to publicize the animals they are helping. Also, Facebook is a great tool for seeing animals various groups have available.
ALLEN COUNTY
12 | Salt | February/March 2016
Allen County Dog Warden Address: 1165 Seriff Road, Lima Phone: 419-223-8528 Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m.to noon Saturdays Once dogs that are brought in are determined to be strays and not separated from their owners, and their temperaments allow for adoption, they will be placed as available. If the dog was owned (came in wearing tags or microchipped) and is adoptable, it will not be put down. The dog adoption process includes a short application and verification of applicant’s vet and landlord. Cost is about $100, which covers vaccines and license. Ohio SPCA and Humane Society Address: 3606 Elida Road, Lima Phone: 419-991-1775 Adoptions: 3-7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, noon-4:30 p.m. Saturdays, or by appointment Dogs and cats are spayed or neutered, up to date on vaccinations and receive daily socialization. Dogs are available for about $150, and cats are about $50. Deb’s Dogs Location: Lima Phone: 419-204-6157 This dog rescue group provides foster care for shelter dogs that need extra attention. The agency works with inmates at Oakwood Correctional Facility for socialization of the animals, house training and
learning commands. Individuals who want to adopt should agree to keeping the pet mainly indoors, have a vet lined up, and returning the dog to the agency if the animal does not mesh well with the home. A Lotta Love Pet Rescue Location: Lima Phone: 419-229-5612 Email: Sandy2wayne3@yahoo. com This pet rescue group fosters animals while they are waiting to be adopted. The group also
helps seniors buy pet food. Open Hearts Bully Rescue Address: 5560 Bellefontaine Road, Lima Phone: 419-222-3047 This group focuses on finding homes for the “bully” breeds. At this time, it is not taking in dogs, but an application may be filled out for adoption of dogs that may come available. TLU Rescue Address: 42 Vance St., Bluffton Phone: 567-226-1067
This shelter flooded last summer, and it is nearing completion of renovations. Please call for details. Angels for Animals Rescue League Address: 211 S. Greenlawn Ave., Elida Phone: 419-339-9408 This agency formerly was a dog and cat rescue, but now is focusing its efforts on being a low-cost spay and neuter clinic in the community.
Compiled by Adrienne McGee Sterrett
AUGLAIZE COUNTY Auglaize County Humane Society Address: 616 N. Dixie Highway, Wapakoneta Phone: 419-738-7808 Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, noon-4 p.m. Wednesdays, closed Sundays Dogs and cats are able to be adopted at this agency, and boarding is also available. The cost to adopt a dog is about $150, and cats are about $40. The costs include spaying or neutering. SART (Sue’s Animal Rescue Team) Location: St. Marys Phone: 419-733-3650 This group offers cats for adoption. To visit or learn more, please call and leave a message.
HARDIN COUNTY Hardin County Dog Shelter Address: 49 Jones Road, Kenton Phone: 419-674-2209 Hardin County Humane Society of Ohio Address: 13510 state Route 68 S., Kenton Phone: 419-434-0733
Email: hchumanesociety@aol. com This agency does not have a shelter, as it does fostering and low-cost spay and neuter. It also operates a pet food pantry for people having trouble affording food for their pets. For details on fostering or adopting animals, call or text Tabbi at 419-434-0733.
MERCER COUNTY Mercer County Dog Control Services Address: 7009 state Route 49, Celina Phone: 419-942-1550 To view dogs or for dog control, please call. Animal Protection League of Mercer County Location: Celina Phone: 419-586-2887 Email: info@aplmercer.com This agency cares for the dogs at the county pound, especially the sick and injured, and works to find homes for them. Applications include personality matching and vet references.
days, 9-10 a.m. Saturdays, or by appointment Dogs are available to anyone at least 18 years old. Putnam Pet Pals Email: putnampetpals.net This organization is a rescue and advocacy group that provides foster care for shelter dogs until they can find a home. An application must be turned in, including verification of applicant’s vet, before applicant meets any dogs. Dogs will be matched with applicant’s personality to ensure a good fit.
VAN WERT COUNTY Van Wert County Humane Society Address: 309 Bonnewitz Ave., Van Wert
Phone: 419-238-5088 Email: vanwertshelter@vwchs. com Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays (call first), with extra staffed hours 3-6 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays, 4-8 p.m. Wednesdays, 4-6 p.m. Thursdays, 11 a.m. to noon Fridays and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays
REGION Open Arms Pound Rescue Phone: 419-852-0628 Email: openarmsrescue@ yahoo.com This agency helps find homes for dogs in Ohio pounds. Volunteers work to pull dogs from pounds, arrange for vetting, and coordinate transport to homes. References and a home visit are required.
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Pysanky:
An ancient art form for modern times
14 | Salt | February/March 2016
By Amy Eddings Dyeing and decorating eggs for Easter can be as simple as dipping a hard-boiled egg in a solution of hot water, vinegar and food dye, or it can be as complicated as the wax resist dyeing process used to make the extravagantly decorated eggs known as pysanky, or Ukrainian Easter eggs. Only one method is rumored to save the world from evil. “There’s an old Ukrainian legend that there’s a dragon of evil loose in the world, and it is tied down only by the chains which are made by the Ukrainian women who are making the Easter eggs,” said former pysanky maker Anna Selfridge. “Each egg is a link in the chain that holds the dragon down.” Selfridge paused. “So it’s plenty loose right now.” To be blunt, the world needs more pysanky. The craft is ripe for a resurgence, given the renewed popularity in other homespun, time-intensive projects such as knitting, crocheting and canning. Advocates of the art form say that, once the basic concepts and technique of the dyeing process are grasped, pysanky is easy. It’s also inexpensive. The tools and materials — beeswax, eggs, dye, kistka (the special pen or stylus used to write in beeswax on the egg) — are readily available. So are kits and books with step-by-step instructions. Selfridge, curator for archives and manuscripts at the Allen County Museum in Lima, taught herself to make pysanky in the 1970s, but arthritis stopped her about 15 years ago.
Courtesy photo
Ann Reddy, left, and Luba Perchyshyn.
Anna Selfridge holds a sgraffito style egg which is an art technique in which a surface layer of paint is scratched away to reveal a contrasting color underneath.
“I just thought they were pretty,” she said. “I also knit and cross-stitch, so I had the patience for it. I don’t know that I do anymore, considering that it hurts.” Selfridge isn’t Ukrainian, so pysanky isn’t a part of her family heritage. It’s not a family tradition for Ann Reddy, either, who said she’s of Irish descent. The artist and Tiffin Columbian High School librarian learned pysanky in 1985 from an art teacher who was Ukrainian. “I just fell in love with it,” she said, pulling out from a closet in her art studio in Findlay a box covered in wax drippings and stained with dye. It was filled with her pysanky supplies, including decorated eggs in various stages of the dye process. “It’s very much a flow activity, very much a slowing down” she said, setting up her tools for a demonstration. “Each step, you can’t take it any (faster) than it takes.” You’ll need eggs, emptied of their innards. There are special tools that help you puncture a small hole in the pointy end of the egg and blow air into it to force out the yolk and egg white. You’ll need beeswax, dyes, large jars to hold the dye mixtures in, spoons to dip the eggs into the dye, a kistka, a candle to melt the beeswax off of the egg at the end of the dyeing process, varnish or shellac for sealing and protecting the finished product, an egg rack for drying the eggs, and clean cloths or paper towels to blot up spills and wipe away melted wax from the egg during the final step.
“Each egg is a link in the chain that holds the dragon down. So it’s plenty loose right now.” — Anna Selfridge
Anna Selfridge with an assortment of Ukrainian eggs she decorated. Most of the eggs are chicken, duck and goose. Photos by Craig J. Orosz
Salt | February/March 2016 | 15
“This is a paper towel-intensive process,” quipped Reddy. She picked up an empty, white egg shell in one hand and a soft lead pencil in the other. Starting at the top of the egg, she drew a faint line around the length of the egg. She drew another line around the egg’s middle. Dividing the egg into sections provides a symmetrical framework upon which to build a pattern. Like quilts, there are many standardized designs that have developed over the centuries, such as the triangular pattern known as “Forty Days of Lent,” or the eight-pointed star, cross and branches pattern called “Paska.” There are dozens of animal, plant and geometric motifs, each steeped in meaning. Stars represent success. Fruits and
vegetables such as peas, cherries and apples encourage a good harvest and abundance. Ladders signify the ascent to heaven; hens and roosters, fertility. Books like “Ukrainian Easter Eggs and How We Make Them” and “Eggs Beautiful: How to Make Ukrainian Easter Eggs,” both by Anne Kmit, Loretta Luciow, Johanna Luciow and Luba Perchyshyn, provide examples and instructions. Perchyshyn is Reddy’s hero, her mentor from afar. Perchyshyn’s store, Ukrainian Gift Shop in Minneapolis, is Reddy’s longtime source of pysanky supplies and inspiration. “This past November, I was at a conference in Minneapolis, and I thought, I just gotta go,” Reddy said. She visited the shop, which has become more of a warehouse than a store.
“The son was there … and he said, ‘You know, we don’t have the kind of business that we used to have. It’s all just basically online,’ ” said Reddy. She spotted a table covered with gorgeous Ukrainian Easter eggs. “I asked him, did you make all these eggs, and he said, no, my mother did, she’s over there, there’s Luba.” Reddy giggled with delight, retelling the moment when she met THE Luba Perchyshyn. “I got my picture taken with Luba! She’s 92 years old!” Her story told, she picked up her kistka. With smooth, long strokes, she covered the pencil lines with beeswax. The wax, stained black by the carbon from the flame used to heat the kistka, was easily visible on the white egg.
Photo by Amy Eddings
16 | Salt | February/March 2016
Ann Reddy holds a finished egg, covered in black beeswax, near a heat source to melt away the wax and reveal the dyed pattern underneath.
“Everything I’m drawing right now on the white egg will remain white once the wax is removed,” Reddy explained. She unscrewed the lid of a glass jar of yellow dye and placed the egg inside. Once the egg has reached the hue she wants, she’ll remove the egg, let it dry, and then draw more patterns with the beeswax pen. Whatever she draws on the yellow egg will remain yellow in the final design. The process of drawing, dunking and drying continues, with darker and darker dyes: green, orange, red and finally black. Reddy took a nearly finished egg out of her box. It was all black with waxy gray markings on it. Hidden under that gray wax were the brilliant colors of the preceding dye baths, colors that would be revealed once she held the egg’s surface near the flame of a candle and let the wax melt away.
“I prefer to put them in a low-temperature oven, with a pan underneath to catch the wax,” Reddy said. “If you hold the egg too close to the flame, you can crack it.” Cracking the fragile shell is one of the hazards of the craft. “If you have small children or animals, I wouldn’t recommend it,” warned Selfridge. But if you can keep the kids at bay for a few hours, if you can lock the cat or dog in the basement, if you can set aside the desire for rapid results and let this ancient art form work its magic, there is much to recommend pysanky. Time, slowed down. Tradition, kept alive despite modern impulses favoring speed, disposability and uniformity. Keepsake-worthy eggs. And more links in the chains that keep our inner and outer fire-breathing dragons at bay.
RESOURCES Ann Reddy teaches how to make pysanky. Contact her for class availability and location at areddy2@me.com. Ukrainian Gift Shop: This Minneapolis store, where Reddy has purchased her supplies for decades, bills itself as “the world’s largest source of pysanky and pysanky supplies.” Most of its business is conducted online at ukrainiangiftshop.com, but the store also offers a mail-order catalog. The website offers a guide for a “featured design.” It is located at 1008 N. Fifth St., Minneapolis, MN 55411. Its hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST Monday through Thursday. Call 612-7882545 or toll-free, for orders only, at 866-PYSANKA. Ukrainian MuseumArchives: This Cleveland institution offers pysanka classes and has an exhibit of pysanky from different regions of Ukraine. Upcoming classes are limited to five to 10 people. Contact the staff at staff@umacleveland.org for information. It is located at 1202 Kenilworth Ave., Cleveland. Its hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Call 216-781-4329.
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Surma, The Ukrainian Shop: This store is located in New York City, but you can buy goose egg ($75), chicken egg ($30) and wooden egg ($7.50) pysanky online at surmastore.com/pysanka. html. The store also offers a Ukrainian Easter Egg Decorating Kit and supplies for creating pysanky. It is located at 11 E. Seventh St., New York, NY 10003. Its hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, and it is closed Sunday. Call 212-477-0729.
Tales of humor, grief and hope Salt readers share their favorite pet stories
Christopher and Grace
18 | Salt | February/March 2016
Rusty
Angel and Henry
Grace Graceful Angel, Grace for short, was a beautiful red doberman show dog. She had a gentle, loving soul and was the pride of our son, Christopher. She was his “Little Girl.” Yes, she was an ornery pup, but soon that puppy stage gave way to a sweet and loving companion. Christopher and Grace were inseparable with a morning ritual and always a kiss goodbye before leaving for work and kisses and hugs upon returning. Christopher plays the saxophone and Grace would “sing” along with him for hours while he practiced. Actually, her “singing” was more of a howl, much to the distress of Chris’s wife, who would often sneak off to the car with a book. Eventually, due to age, Grace developed wobbler’s disease for which there is no cure. A decision had to be made to ease her suffering and lay her to rest. On the day Grace was to go to the vet for her final visit, she ate steak, took a walk through the neighborhood in a wagon pulled by her loving owner. She laid in her soft bed, surrounded by her favorite toys while Christopher played “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” on his sax. Grace couldn’t “sing” the entire song, but did the best she could. We grieve, as she was a member of this family. We miss her terribly, but Christopher and his family gave her the most wonderful life, full of companionship, laughter and fun, but most of all unconditional love. — Jacqueline S.
Cotner of Lima Rusty My dog, Rusty, was the best dog I’ve had in my 76 years. We got him as a pup and his companionship helped me through one particular rough time. One time, when I was putting wagons away, I slipped on the ice and fell on my back. As I laid there assessing the situation, moaning, he came and laid beside me and whimpered, commiserating with me. Another time, while we were walking the fields, he “saved” me from an agitated buck deer — or at least he thought so. I was told by neighbors Rusty was worth his weight in gold for his ability to hunt groundhogs. Sadly, Rusty died several years ago at 13. I miss him tremendously and will never replace him, for no other dog could. — Sent by Mary Oen of behalf of William J. Oen of St. Marys Henry Meet Henry. He is 215 pounds of pure love. Henry is a rescue Great Dane that was just hours away from being put to sleep. He came to me, and I was just going to be his foster mom, but I am proudly a foster failure. He truly is the definition of love. He was just 14 months old when he came to me in 2011, and he was skin over bones, a whopping 130 pounds and, for his frame, that was horrible. He has definitely come a long way. Henry has such a loving personality, that I decided that he would follow in the big paw prints of his Aunt
Shelby and become a therapy dog with Therapy Dogs International. Henry became certified in early 2015 and has become a sensation wherever he goes. He goes to the local library and children read to him. He sometimes dresses up for them. He goes to the USO where he visits with military members and their families, and he has also been to a school and a nursing home. He enjoys his work! I am so happy to share him with the world because he had 14 months of a rough life, but now, he brings smiles and spreads love everywhere he goes, so he knows how wonderful life can be. He’s a blessing to me and all the folks he meets. — Angel Ketcham of Bartow, Fla., originally from Lima Rucker and Belle We lost our yellow Lab last year to cancer. After five months, my husband came home one day and asked me to go over the local Paws Animal Shelter with him, as he thought we had gone long enough without a dog. We fell for a black collie mix, about 6 years old, very smart, house trained and spayed. Then I spotted Rucker. Rucker is about 17 months old now, but was only about 7 months when we met him. He is a St. Bernard mix, now weighing in at about 120 pounds and still growing. A very smart dog and so loving, but a real handful for older people in our “golden years.” He is also a housedog. Our grown son has spent much time with him,
teaching him commands and manners. When he occasionally forgets his manners, and we have to repair the fence or fill in a hole in the yard, we just say, “It’s all for the love of Rucker.” Belle, the Collie, is a wonderful companion for him and helps keep him in line. They are such a delight to us, and help to keep us at least feeling young. Please visit your local shelter and adopt other wonderful dogs just waiting for permanent homes. — Glenna Coleman of Urbana
Rider Since February, my husband, Doug, and I have had the privilege of puppy-raising a golden Retriever for Pilot Dogs Inc. of Columbus. This organization has been training guide dogs for the blind since 1950. We discovered the program through the St. Marys Lions Club, of which we are now members. We signed on to be puppy raisers early fall 2014 and finally received our little
8-week-old bundle of fluff on Presidents Day. He was just adorable, with a face that was wrinkled like an old man. We were so excited. We share our home with a senior rescue border collie along with three cats, all of which weren’t nearly as thrilled when we brought Rider home. Our job is to socialize our puppy, introducing him to all kinds of situations and environments, along with basic obedience training. But here’s the big thing of it: We have to give him back! When Rider is approximately 1 year old, he will return to Pilot Dogs for his formal guide dog training. After five months of hard work, he will be matched with a blind or visually impaired person. Everyone always asks us the same question: How are we ever going to be able to give him up? Puppy raising is a happy/ sad experience. We know we are doing a good thing, but we also know what’s coming. Is it even possible to prepare ourselves for the fact that we may never see him again? I’m sure there will be a few tears. Well, maybe the cats won’t be so sad. Doug and I feel this is a way of contributing to the greater good that is a win/ win situation. We get to raise a cute little pup and help him become a loving companion that could change someone’s life, allowing them freedom and independence that they may never have known until Rider came into their lives. Even if it means a piece of our hearts will be carried away with him. — Julie Metz of St. Marys
Rucker
Belle
Sassi
Rider
Salt | February/March 2016 | 19
Sassi Sassi is queen of all she sees from her throne, which is really the nut box I keep filled for the squirrels. It is nailed to a tree in our back yard and she will not allow trespassers. When I found her and brought her home, she was in terrible shape. She was skin and bones and she was in need of a bath and a good meal. We took care of both and let her alone. It took her no time at all to get used to her family, and she was out in the yard with us and soon let us know she was not going anywhere. Our dog is her best friend and they have a great time together. The only thing she does not understand is the toads that live in my flower beds. They jump at her and she comes flying into the house. I firmly believe every senior citizen should have a pet. They make life worth living, make you get up in the morning, feed them, and start your day. — Mary Callow of Van Wert
Oh, boy. Where should I start? How about with our Great Danes? Axel, Herschel, Turk, Bubba, Sadie, Ceniza, Sofie and Libby. Sadie, Sofie and Libby were all beautiful Harlequins. We had two very loving shar-peis, Tia-Ling and Hoover. Two months after my wife, Peggy, passed away, Libby developed neurological depression and had to be euthanized. She was Peggy’s baby girl, and they shared countless times together before and during Peggy’s long illness. Between those wonderful dog-loving years, I should not forget our mixed breeds: Fritz, Si Si, Chumie, Emma Lee and Buddy, who now is my close companion. I need to mention our cats that mingled with our dogs over the years. Bicep, Ollie, Tilly, Buttercup, Sammy, and now currently living with me, Rootie Kazootie and sisters Lucy and Lu Lu. As evident, with over 50 years together, Peggy and I extended many happy and heart-breaking years to bring an ever loving home to our pets. — Jack Bevilockway of Lima
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Local dog parks
Wapak Dog Park Across from the fairground on West Auglaize Street
There are two fenced-in areas for dogs to play. West Bank Dog Park West Bank Road, Celina Inside a park area on Grand Lake St. Marys This dog park is at the south end of the road, in a park area along the lake. There are two fenced-in areas for dogs of different sizes. Dog waste bags and benches for owners are available. Dog owners must stay with their dog during the visit. Hours are dawn to dusk. East Bank Dog Park East Bank Road, St. Marys
Inside a park area on Grand Lake State Marys This dog park is just north of the first shelter house on that road along the lake. There are two fenced-in areas for dogs of different sizes. There are dog waste bags, drinking water for pets and benches for owners. Hardin County Veterans Memorial Park 15906 state Route 309, Kenton This park, which offers various amenities, also has an enclosed dog run area. Dogs should be wearing their tags, dog waste must be disposed of, and aggressive dogs are not allowed.
Salt | February/March 2016 | 21
Allen County Dog Park 1165 Seriff Road, Lima Behind the Allen County Dog Warden 419-223-8528 This dog park has one large fenced-in area with some agility equipment and park benches. An application is necessary for a free membership, which allows staff to be sure dogs are licensed and friendly and gives members the code to the lock on the door. Hours are dawn to dusk.
Compiled by Adrienne McGee Sterrett
Sweet tooth Sara’s Sweets fills gourmet cupcake niche in Lima
22 | Salt | February/March 2016
By Michelle Stein Three short years ago, Sara Anderson was working as a math teacher at Lima Senior High School. But her daily life couldn’t be more different now. Today, 27-year-old Anderson is the face behind Lima’s thriving gourmet cupcake business, Sara’s Sweets, which just upgraded to its very own storefront Dec. 15. So how exactly did this young, multi-talented teacher transform a sweet hobby into a booming business? Anderson said her passion for baking started off alongside her mother when she was just a child. “My mom and I always baked, especially at the holidays,” she said. “She would bake a lot, and we would make up cookie tins for the neighbors and family. And then in high school, I got a job working at a bakery in my hometown, and so I worked there for about three years through high school and college.” While in college, she continued with her cupcake obsession as she slowly perfected her growing list of recipes, and her cross country and track teammates were always more than willing to help taste test the creations. Anderson even made cupcakes for a few large events on campus. Still, she didn’t have plans of opening her own bakery anytime soon and continued pursuing a degree in education. Her cupcakes, meanwhile, remained in high demand. The summer
after college graduation is when Anderson first catered them for a friend’s wedding. Shortly after that, she baked more than 500 cupcakes for her own wedding. Following their nuptials, the Illinois native moved to be with her husband, Ben, in Lima, where she soon landed her first teaching job at Lima Senior. There, she would frequently bring in tasty treats for her fellow staff members and students to enjoy. Word of mouth of Anderson’s fantastic baking skills traveled fast. Before long, she was in contact with the owners of The Met, who had heard from a mutual friend that she loved to bake and her goods were really good. In 2012, when she started baking for The Met, Anderson also opened up a Facebook page to sell her treats from home — just to test out the waters. “It just took off from there,” Anderson said. One year later, she decided to take that leap of faith and turn her passion into a business. Anderson quit her career as an educator and jumped into baking full time. “You go from the steady paycheck, benefits, everything, to the unknown of running your own business,” she said. “It’s a lot of risk, but I’m glad I did it.” Between selling treats from home and opening up a cupcake counter at Pears Avenue (and then at The Met after Pears Avenue closed), the demand for local gourmet sweets in Lima was definitely there.
Photos by Graham Goebel
SARA’S SWEETS Address: 435 S. Eastown Road, Lima,Ohio Phone: 419-371-4745 Email: sara@sarassweetslima.com Website: sarassweetslima.com Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays
“It was always kind of like, ‘Oh, someday way in the future I’ll have a bakery when I’m old and retired.’ I never thought at the age of 27 I would be doing it.” — Sara Anderson
Salt | February/March 2016 | 23
24 | Salt | February/March 2016
As of Dec. 15, Sara’s Sweets parted ways with The Met and has started its newest adventure as a standalone cupcake and bake shop. Located at 435 S. Eastown Road in Lima, right next to the Vein Care Center, Sara’s Sweets is open for business from 10 a.m. to 6 pm. Tuesdays to Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. “We have about eight types of cupcakes available daily, plus a lot of cookies, brownies and bar-type things,” she said. “And special order cakes — the same stuff I do now, just on a larger scale and more
availability.” Sara’s Sweets also offers coffee and has recently expanded its menu to include cinnamon rolls and scones. Among her impressive cupcake options are: French silk pie, cookies & cream, key lime pie, PB&J, pineapple upside down cake, cappuccino chip, Boston cream pie and more — adding up to more than 40 gourmet flavors in total. By far, the buckeye cupcake is the top seller at Sara’s Sweets. The website describes it as “chocolate cake filled with a buckeye center,
topped with fluffy peanut butter buttercream and a buckeye.” And Anderson’s favorite flavor? Brownie batter, which is “chocolate cake filled with a brownie truffle center, topped with brownie batter buttercream, hot fudge and brownie bits.” Anderson said customers often joke with her about always being surrounded by delicious treats. They wonder how she can stop herself from eating cupcakes all day long. “When you’re around it all of the time, you don’t really
want it,” she laughed. “I’ll have maybe a cupcake every other week or so.” Anderson admits she never pictured herself as an entrepreneur so early in life. “It was always kind of like, ‘Oh, someday way in the future I’ll have a bakery when I’m old and retired.’ I never thought at the age of 27 I would be doing it,” she said. Still, she wouldn’t have it any other way. “I can’t even imagine still being in the classroom,” Anderson said. “This is where I’m supposed to be.”
Sara’s recipe
BANANA CHOCOLATE CHIP BREAD Directions: Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray loaf pan with cooking spray. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and pudding mix. Whisk to combine and set aside. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon flour and chocolate chips; set aside. With mixer, combine butter, shortening and sugar. Beat on high until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Add eggs, one at a time, until thoroughly combined. Add milk and vanilla, then banana to mixture; combine well. With mixer on low, add flour mixture just until combined. Fold in chocolate chips. Spread into loaf pan; tap to remove air pockets. Bake for 1 hour or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Let loaf cool in pan for 5 minutes; then turn out onto wire rack to cool completely.
Salt | February/March 2016 | 25
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 small package instant vanilla pudding mix 1 cup chocolate chips 2/3 cup sugar 1/2 cup butter, softened 2 eggs 2 tablespoons milk 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 3 large, extra-ripe bananas, mashed
..
is. The truth
I like my dog better than you HOMEMADE PEANUT BUTTER DOG TREATS The easiest homemade dog treats ever. Simply mix, roll and cut. Easy peasy, and so much healthier than storebought. Use a boneshaped cookie cutter. Pumpkin, a great source of fiber, keeps dogs “regular” and peanut butter just tastes darn good. Ingredients: 2/3 cup pumpkin puree 1/4 cup peanut butter 2 large eggs 3 cups flour
Reciprocate your best friend’s love with homemade treats
26 | Salt | February/March 2016
By Andrea Chaffin I never wanted a dog. They stink. They drool. They jump. They bark. I grew up with cats, which require little care. Basically, as long as their bowls are full and their litter boxes are scooped, they don’t need anything. But dogs? They’re big and need to be taken outside. Surely, they couldn’t love me like my cat could. I had no interest in such a beast. Until I met my dog. She changed me. Now, I’m the quintessential dog lady. When meeting people, I tend to greet their dogs first. Dog people know other dog people. It’s easy for us to spot each other because everyone else in the room is giving us the stink eye while we’re cooing and kissing our fur babies. People tend to say I spoil Harley, my 7-year-old pit bull mix. I won’t lie — she always gets the last few bites of whatever I’m eating, thanking me with a few warm licks. I rub her belly and scratch under her ears in response. And, of course, I tell her I love her. A lot. She has her own camping chair.
My car, couch and wardrobe are constantly covered in a blanket of her white, wiry hair. I recall once when then-Wilmington Mayor Randy Riley picked out a few short strands of Harley’s fur out of my black blazer during a meeting. “I just take a little bit of Harley wherever I go,” I explained at the time. Others have refused to ride in my car or sit on my couch, knowing they risk a dog-hair covered behind. My answer to those problems is a collection of lint rollers: two in the house, one in the car and one at the office. “Have you considered keeping her off the furniture?” some have gingerly asked. No. How are we supposed to cuddle? And go on adventures together? And be best friends. Simply, it’s not an option. That got me to thinking: Is there any person I prefer over my dog? I think not because dogs are better than people. Here are 10 reasons why: 1. They’re mobile vacuums. Lose half the cheese dip off your tortilla chip? No problem. Fido will have that cleaned up in a jiffy.
Directions: Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat; set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat pumpkin puree, peanut butter and eggs on medium-high until well combined, about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups flour at low speed, beating just until incorporated. Add an additional 1/4 cup flour at a time, just until the dough is no longer sticky. Working on a lightly floured surface, knead the dough 3-4 times until it comes together. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out desired shapes and place onto the prepared baking sheet. Place into oven and bake until the edges are golden brown, about 2025 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the treats. Let cool completely.
HOMEMADE BEEF AND OAT DOG TREATS Although these savory cookies smell a little odd to a human nose, dogs will gobble them up. Oats are another great source of fiber for dogs. You’re guaranteed to have these ingredients sitting in the pantry. Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups rolled oats 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 egg 1/2 cup unsalted, low-fat beef broth or chicken broth Directions: Preheat oven to 325 F. Add oats, salt, beef broth and egg to a large mixing bowl. Combine well. Pour onto wax or parchment paper and knead dough for about 3 minutes. Let stand for about 3 minutes to begin to become firmer. Between two sheets of parchment paper, press to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut with cutter and place onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for use or store in a ziptop bag in the freezer for later thawing and use. ANDREA CHAFFIN
Andrea is the food editor of Salt magazine and the editor of The Madison Press. She can be reached at 740-852-1616, ext. 1619 or via Twitter @ AndeeWrites.
2. They don’t get mad when you put your cold feet on them in bed. They’re great heaters and fantastic cuddlers. 3. They’re always happy to see you, no matter if it’s been three days, three hours or three minutes. 4. They eat the spiders. Thanks, I didn’t want to get near that thing! 5. They don’t expect you to be primped for the day. I’ve never been judged by my dog for wearing elastic pants two sizes too big, a T-shirt, dirty hair and last night’s makeup. 6. They’re loyal and protective. Once your dog has committed to you, a bond is made forever. 7. They don’t scroll through Facebook while you’re talking to them. 8. They’ll do you a favor and make that gross cookie from Aunt Beverly disappear. We all know you couldn’t choke it down. Gotta love that trick. 9. They’re not greedy or materialistic. The only thing my dog
wants is me! 10. They always cheer you up when you’re in a bad mood and help you through tough times. What better way to reciprocate love to your best companion than by fixing some homemade dog treats? They are cheaper and easier to make than you might think. Using a few simple, healthy ingredients, these homemade dog treats will become your pet’s favorite.
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Welcome Home to a great night's sleep
ut & Abou
Out & About ALLEN COUNTY
Feb. 14 Travis Tritt performs, 8 p.m., Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, 7 Town Square, Lima. Call 419-224-1552 or visit limaciviccenter.com. Feb. 18 Allen County Ag Outlook Event, 7:30-11:30 a.m. Call 419-222-6045 or visit limachamber.com. Feb. 18 “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,” 7 p.m., Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, 7 Town Square, Lima. Call 419-224-1552 or visit limaciviccenter.com. Feb. 20 Maple Fest Volunteer Training, 9 a.m. breakfast, 9:30 a.m. training, McElroy Environmental Center, 2355 Ada Road, Lima. Call 419-2211232 or visit jampd.com. Feb. 25 Connections, 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m., Shawnee Country Club, 1700 Shawnee Road, Lima. Call 419-222-6045 or visit limachamber.com. Feb. 26 Kewpee High School Art Invitational Reception, 6:30 p.m., ArtSpace/ Lima, 65-67 Town Square. Call 419222-1721 or visit artspacelima.com. Feb. 27 “Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story,” 8 p.m., Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, 7 Town Square, Lima. Call 419-224-1552 or visit limaciviccenter.com.
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March 3 Schmooza Palooza, 3-6 p.m., Howard Johnson, Lima. Visit limachamber.com. March 5-6 Maple Syrup Festival, noon-5 p.m., McLean Teddy Bear Park, 2004 N. Dixie Hwy., Lima. Guests can take a guided tour along a half-mile wooded trail to take a historic look at maple sugaring. Visit jampd.com. March 5-6 Tri-State Gun Show, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Allen County Fairgrounds, 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima. Call 419647-0067 or visit tristategunshow. org. March 11-13, 18-20 “Ravencroft,” 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, Encore Theatre, 991 North Shore Drive, Lima. Call 419-223-8866, email encore@mw.twcbc.com or visit amiltellers.org.
March 13 Family concert, “Star Wars,” 3 p.m., Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, 7 Town Square, Lima. Call 419-222-5701 or visit limasymphony.com. March 19 The 56th Annual Young Artist Competition, Yolder Recital Hall, Bluffton University, Bluffton. Call Kim Shannahan at 419-222-5701 or email kim@ limasymphony.com. March 19 “It’s Barbershop Harmony Time,” presented by the Lima Bean Chorus, 2 and 7:30 p.m., Lima Senior High Auditorium, 1 Spartan Way, Lima. Call 419-306-0374, email terryr@fairpoint.net or visit limaallencvb.com. March 25-26 Tim’s Motorsports Expo, noon10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Allen County Fairgrounds, 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima. Call 419222-4894 or visit timssims.com or lima-allencvb.com. April 1 Hippifest, 8 p.m., Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, 7 Town Square, Lima. Call 419-2241552 or visit limaciviccenter.com. April 2-3 Tri-State Gun Show, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Allen County Fairgrounds, 2750 Harding Hwy., Lima. Call 419647-0067 or visit tristategunshow. org. April 7 Chamber Shack, 5-10 p.m., Howard Johnson, 1920 Roschman Ave., Lima. Call 419-222-6045 or visit limachamber.com. April 8-10 “Law & Order: Fairy Tale Unit,” Encore Theatre, 991 North Shore Drive, Lima. Call 419-223-8866, email encore@mw.twcbc.com or visit www.amiltellers.org. April 9 Lima Family YMCA Spring Momto-Mom Sale, 345 S. Elizabeth St., Lima. Call 419-223-6045, email babysitting@limaymca.net or visit limaymca.net. April 10 LACNIP’s International Expo, 2-6 p.m., Lima Senior High Commons, 1 Spartan Way, Lima. Call 419-9996242 or visit lima-allencvb.com. April 16 “Requiem and Reflections,” 7:30 p.m., Veterans Memorial Civic and
Compiled by Lora Abernathy
Convention Center, 7 Town Square, Lima. Call 419-222-5701 or visit limasymphony.com.
AUGLAIZE COUNTY March 1 Wapakoneta Bob Evans Event, 5:30-7:15 p.m. Join the Armstrong Air & Space Museum educator at the Wapakoneta Bob Evans where children can create a paper copter and learn about lift and gravity. Call 419-738-8811 or visit armstrongmuseum.org. March 5 Wapakoneta Area Chamber of Commerce Bowling Bash, 8-11:55 p.m., Astro Lanes, 1113 Apollo Drive, Wapakoneta. Visit wapakoneta.com. March 16 The 50th anniversary for the Gemini VIII mission, 6:30-8 p.m., Armstrong Air & Space Museum, 500 Apollo Drive, Wapakoneta. Call 419-7388811 or visit armstrongmuseum.org. March 19 Public Program: Flight and Aviation, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Armstrong Air & Space Museum, 500 Apollo Drive, Wapakoneta. Join the museum educator in the front hall to discuss Forces of Flight and create a clothespin airplane. Guided tours will also be taking place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with museum admission. Call 419-738-8811 or visit armstrongmuseum.org. March 26 Easter egg hunt, 10 a.m., Armstrong Air & Space Museum, 500 Apollo Drive, Wapakoneta. Rain or shine. Call 419-738-8811 or visit armstrongmuseum.org. April 9 Yuri’s Night, 8 p.m., Armstrong Air & Space Museum, 500 Apollo Drive, Wapakoneta. Celebrate the first man in space. Guests will enjoy two complimentary drinks and an evening of music, Russian culture and food. Call 419-738-8811 or visit armstrongmuseum.org.
HANCOCK COUNTY Feb. 17-21 The musical, “Smile.” Call 419-4232787 or visit marathoncenterarts. org. Feb. 18-21, 25-27 “Much Ado About Nothing.” Call 419-422-3412, email boxoffice@ artspartnership.com or visit artspartnership.com or fortfindlayplayhouse.org.
Feb. 19 The Toledo Symphony “Celebrates the Oscars!” 7:30 p.m, Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. Call 419-423-2787 or visit marathoncenterarts.org. Feb. 27 Red Cross Oscar Night, 7-11:30 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 1050 Interstate Drive, Findlay. Call 419422-5252. Feb. 28 Bread Baking in the Old Wood Stove, 1-4 p.m. Those in attendance will be treated to the warm smell of bread baking in the old cook stove as they help the McKinnis family and neighbors prepare dough. Learn about the different kinds of breads they eat and how they bake without commercial yeast. Call 419-425-7275, email hpdparks@hancockparks.com or visit hancockparks.com. March 4-6 “Winnie the Pooh KIDS,” 7 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 2300 S. Main St., Findlay. Call 419-422-3412, email boxoffice@artspartnership.com or visit artspartnership.com. March 5 Journey Unauthorized, 7:30 p.m., Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. Call 419-423-2787 or visit marathoncenterarts.org. March 5 Greater Findlay Home Show, 10 a.m to 9 p.m. Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Findlay Village Mall, 1800 Tiffin Ave., Findlay. Visit findlayhomeshow.com. March 7 Freedom Train, 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. Call 419-423-2787 or visit marathoncenterarts.org. March 12 Maple Sugarin’, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Litzenberg Memorial Woods. Call 419-425-7275 or email lbogard@ hancockparks.com. March 13 “The Monster Who Ate My Peas,” 3 p.m., Winebrenner Theological Seminary’s TLB Auditorium. Call 419-422-3412 or visit artspartnership.com or winebrenner.edu. March 16 “Gruff! The Musical,” 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. Call 419-423-2787 or visit marathoncenterarts.org.
VAN WERT COUNTY
Feb. 27 An Evening with B.J. Thomas, 7:30 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio, 10700 state Route 118 S. Call 419-2386722 or visit npacvw.org.
March 20 “Flashdance — The Musical,” 3 p.m., Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. Call 419-423-2787 or visit marathoncenterarts.org.
March 3 The Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra, 7:30 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio, 10700 state Route 118 S. Call 419-238-6722 or visit npacvw.org.
April 8 The Annie Moses Band, 7:30 p.m., Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. Call 419-423-2787 or visit marathoncenterarts.org. April 9 Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Atypical Learners and the Arts, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Owens Community College, 3200 Bright Road, Findlay. Educators, administrators and parents are invited to learn how the arts can be used in the classroom to engage all students, especially those with aspergers, autism, ADHD and other related conditions. Call 419-422-3412 or visit artspartnership.com.
HARDIN COUNTY Feb. 17 Ada Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Dinner, 6 p.m.,Wishing Well in McIntosh Center at Ohio Northern University, Ada. Call 419788-9459 or visit adachamber.org. Feb. 21 Ohio Northern University Symphony Orchestra performs, 5-7 p.m., Freed Center, Biggs Theatre, Ada. Call 419-772-1900 or visit ticketing. onu.edu.
March 18-19 Relay for Life at Ohio Northern University, 6 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Saturday, King Horn Fieldhouse, Ada. Email onurelayforlife@gmail. com. March 21 “It’s Spring in My Heart,” 7:30 p.m.,
March 6 Luke Zamperini, 3 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio, 10700 state Route 118 S. Luke Zamperini is the son of Louis Zamperini, one of World War II’s most well-known prisoners of war and hero of the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. Louis Zamperini is the subject of Laura Hillenbrand’s book, “Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption.” Call 419-238-6722 or visit npacvw.org.
Journey Unauthorized is set to perform March 5 at the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts in Findlay. Ohio Northern University Freed Center, Biggs Theatre, Ada. Call 419772-1900 or visit ticketing.onu.edu. April 5 PaintINN, Inn at ONU, 401 W. College Ave., Ada. Participants work under the guidance of a trained professional while they create a beautiful canvas while enjoying delicious food and drink. All supplies, food, a beverage and fun are included. Cost is $38. Call 419-772-2500, email t-eichelberger@onu.edu or visit innatonu.com.
MERCER COUNTY Feb. 20 “Bob & Tom Show” comedian Heywood Banks, 9 p.m., Overdrive, 3769 state Route 127, Celina. Call 419-925-9999, email contact@ theoverdrive.com or visit theoverdrive.com. Feb. 27 Motown on the Lake, 6 p.m., Romer’s Catering and Entertainment, 1101 Westbank Road, Celina. Presented by the Lake Improvement Association, all proceeds will go toward the improvement of Grand Lake St. Marys. Visit seemore.org.
March 10-13, 17-20 “Beauty and the Beast,” Van Wert Civic Theater, 118 S. Race St., Van Wert. Call 419-238-9689 or visit vwct.org.
March 4 Branson on the Road performs, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Overdrive, 3769 state Route 127, Celina. Call 419925-9999, email contact@theoverdrive.com or visit theoverdrive.com.
March 20 Natalie Grant performs, 7:30 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio, 10700 state Route 118 S. Call 419-2386722 or visit npacvw.org.
March 12 Main Event, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., a guys-only event, Mercer County Fairgrounds, 1001 W. Market St., Celina. Call 419-586-3239 or visit mercercountyohiofair.com.
March 31 The 15th Annual Southern Gospel Expo, 7 p.m., Trinity Friends Church, 605 N. Franklin St., Van Wert. Visit trinityvw.com.
March 19 Easter egg hunt, 11 a.m., downtown courthouse square, Celina. Visit celinamercer.com. March 19 Comedy Night, 7 p.m., Mercer County Fairgrounds, 1001 W. Market St., Celina. Call 419-586-3239 or visit seemore.org or mercercountyohiofair.com. April 7-9 Village of St. Henry community garage sale. April 9 Mom 2 Mom Sale, Mercer County Fairgrounds, 1001 W. Market St., Celina. Call 419-586-3239 or visit mercercountyohiofair.com.
April 3 Libera, 3 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio, 10700 state Route 118 S. Call 419-238-6722 or visit npacvw.org.
April 15 Riders in the Sky Salute to Roy Rogers, 7:30 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio, 10700 state Route 118 S. Call 419-238-6722 or visit npacvw.org. April 16 Van Wert Blooms with P. Allen Smith & Friends, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio, 10700 state Route 118 S. Call 419-2386722 or visit npacvw.org.
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March 1-2 PaintINN, Inn at ONU, 401 W. College Ave., Ada. Participants work under the guidance of a trained professional while they create a beautiful canvas while enjoying delicious food and drink. All supplies, food, a beverage and fun are included. Cost is $38. Call 419-772-2500, email t-eichelberger@onu.edu or visit innatonu.com.
Out & About
March 16 Moscow Festival Ballet presents, “Cinderella,” 7:30 p.m., Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, 200 W. Main Cross St., Findlay. Call 419-423-2787 or visit marathoncenterarts.org.
Laurie Eversole, of Lima, is about to throw a toy for her Labrador mix, Coco, at Yappy Hour. Photo by Danae King
The perfect partnership
Dogs paired with developmentally disabled
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By Liz Young A local day services program for adults with developmental disabilities has taken to heart the adage that dogs are indeed our best friends — pairing its participants with four-legged partners to create a unique niche. Friends of Leroy Brown is part of the nonprofit organization Innovative Opportunities, and uses a group of nine privately owned and trained dogs to teach responsibility, job skills and social skills to its participants, according to Janet Seward, CEO of the nonprofit. “It’s really a cool concept. I wouldn’t start a day program like the others. I wanted something different,” she said. “I wanted (participants) to get that feeling to actually give to somebody else, a sense of pride, of self-esteem.” And the name? It’s not inspired by the 1973 Jim Croce song about the bad, bad Leroy Brown. This Leroy Brown is a dog, and certainly not bad. Several years ago, Leroy tangled with a raccoon and lost. With severe injuries, area veterinarian Dr. Nathan Metz saved him and, although Leroy’s injuries left him with disabilities, he beat the odds. Still living with Metz, Seward said Leroy was partly the inspiration for the program. Dogs, she thought, could give people with disabilities a way to connect with the
FRIENDS OF LEROY BROWN Address: 1662 W. Breese Road, Suite B Annex, Lima, OH 45806 Phone: 567-940-1337 Website: leroybrown.org community. Additional inspiration came from John Martin, director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. Seward said Martin once told a story about how people would “look through” his son, who has disabilities. So, he got him a dog, and suddenly people would stop and talk to him about the dog. “Putting Leroy’s story together with the John Martin story — what if we gave people with disabilities the opportunity to give to the community and make a connection?” she asked. “Dogs are unconditional love … they don’t care if you have a disability.” Participants receive training on dog handling and learn to feed, groom and clean up after their canine counterparts. They also accompany the dogs on visits to nursing homes, according to Andrew Rowe, program coordinator. A certified dog trainer, Rowe said all dogs in the program
are certified by the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen program. Fay Murphy, of Lima, said she has considered Friends of Leroy Brown for her daughter, Kylie, who will graduate this spring from Marimor School, through the Allen County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Fay said she likes the idea of Kylie learning more responsibility and taking care of animals. Kylie has a cat, but the Leroy Brown program could expand her skills and give her something different from other day services options. Working with animals can promote an all-around sense of well-being for people with disabilities, according to Erin Koenig, behavior support specialist with ACBDD. Building relationships with animals creates positive companionship and enhanced selfesteem, she said. And it’s good for the dogs, too. Rowe said the interaction and attention they get is highly beneficial for their health and happiness. It’s a win-win. In addition to the program, the nonprofit recently opened Leroy’s Place, a doggie daycare site. As participants gain handling skills, they can volunteer at the daycare where Seward said they learn job skills that could eventually lead to employment. “We’re trying to make it full circle. We’re bringing people over (to the daycare), exposing them to the work site, training them,” she said.
And one more thought... “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” — Pablo Picasso
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Photo by Craig J. Orosz
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