+ All Categories
Home > Documents > Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Date post: 13-Mar-2016
Category:
Upload: heart-of-ohio-magazine-llc
View: 222 times
Download: 5 times
Share this document with a friend
Description:
The Jul/Aug issue of Heart of Ohio magazine.
Popular Tags:
64
JULY/AUG 2012 A Light on the Shore Benson Ford on Put-in-Bay INSIDE: Decorating with Inspiration The ‘Etta Express: Ashland’s Link to Ohio’s Grandest Baseball Dr. Lucille Ford: A Woman for All Times
Transcript
Page 1: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

JULY/AUG 2012

A Light on the ShoreBenson Ford on Put-in-Bay

INSIDE:Decorating with Inspiration

The ‘Etta Express: Ashland’s Link to Ohio’s Grandest Baseball

Dr. Lucille Ford: A Woman for All Times

Page 2: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Special wounds need specialized healing.

Don’t let a non-healing wound steal months from your life. MedCentral’s outpatient Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy specialists work with your physician to

offer the fastest healing possible.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is an advanced treatment for non-healing wounds. Patients lie in a specialized chamber breathing pure oxygen to speed healing and fight

infection. To find out if Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is right for you, contact our expert team at 419-526-HBOT (4268).

Expert wound care close to home.

12MCH0004 HyperbaricChamber Ad (7.5x10).indd 1 3/2/12 1:30 PM

Page 3: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

RESIDENTIAL DRILLINGWith many years of experience and

expertise, Jamison Well Drilling is

the company you can trust to drill

the well for your home.

Jamison Well Drilling, Inc. Water Well Drilling Water Tanks Geothermal Drilling Water Softeners

MANSFIELD 419.524.8560 | ASHLAND 419.289.8560TOLLFREE 800.606.8560258 Central Ave. | Mansfi eld, Ohio 44905www.jamisonwelldrilling.com

Page 4: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Restoring the Past Oak Hill Cottage Landscape Project

Decorating with Inspiration

A Light on the Shore

Andrews House The House that Love for a

Community Built

The ‘Etta Express Ashland’s Link to Ohio’s

Grandest Baseball

TABLE OF CONTENTS

8 30

19

F E A T U R E S

40

8

19

30

36

40

36

2 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 5: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

On the cover:

Benson Ford, Put-in-Bay, Ohio Photo courtesy of Don Coles, Great Lakes Aerial Photos

FROM THE EDITOR

Standing in the dining room of the Benson Ford with its black walnut paneling and gleaming brass fixtures, it was easy to feel as if I had reversed time and was sailing Lake Erie on a sunny spring day in 1924. My curiosity bristled as I wondered what Henry Ford and Thomas Edison might have talked about over dinner in this very room. Did they discuss their adjacent winter estates in Fort Myers, Florida? Maybe they talked over coffee about Edison’s latest fascination with moving pictures, or could it have been the future of the automobile that sparked the conversation between these two giants of American industry? It graces our cover, and “A Light on the Shore” is the story about this amazing ship-house and its history.

There are so many articles you won’t want to miss: In his column, Mike Greene introduces you to Maureen O’Hara-Ganz and her stable of magnificent Percheron horses. You’ll get a quick tour of the new Springmill Learning Center, and you’ll find out about the ongoing work at Oak Hill Cottage when you read “Restoring the Past”. And Barb Haller gives us a peek inside an energetic family’s vacation in this months column.

Writing about our interesting person for this issue has made me consider changing the department name to “fascinating and inspiring person”. When you read “A Woman for All Times”, the article about Dr. Lucille Ford, you’ll see why.

Summertime is baseball time, and Gary Caruso’s article, “The ‘Etta Express” has some interesting history for our sports fans. Summer is also a wonderful time of year for beach glass collectors… like me. “Pieces of Other Lives” is a little background on one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful recycling projects!

In this issue’s “Everyday Heroes”, I have the distinct privilege of sharing with you a story about the late Brigadier General Fred Larson, the father of the 179th Airlift Wing in Mansfield. “The Last Gift” may very well restore your faith in human kindness. After you finish, visit my blog at www.unremarkablewoman.blogspot.com to get the “story behind the story” when you read “The Good Soldier”. They’re both must-reads.

You are going to find this July/August Heart of Ohio magazine to be warm and sunny and full of flavor, just like everything else we enjoy about this time of year. I would love to have your feedback on this issue and hear your ideas on people and places for future issues. Leave your comments on my blog or contact me at Heart of Ohio magazine. After all… there wouldn’t be a Heart of Ohio without you!

Diana L. Coon, Editor Heart of Ohio magazine

PublisherSunGraphics, Inc.Diane K. Brown, [email protected]

EditorDiana L. [email protected]

Sales & MarketingDebra [email protected]

Contributing WritersDiana L. CoonJulie McCreadyMike GreeneBarb HallerGuest Authors

Graphic DesignersTami ShuckTom Hofacre

CirculationMichelle [email protected]

Becky [email protected]

FROM THE EDITOR

Heart of Ohio magazine is printed and published bimonthly by SunGraphics, Inc.

41 Longview Ave. E., Mansfield, Ohio 44903

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

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

3JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 6: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Interesting People 6 A Woman for All Times: Dr. Lucille Ford

Local Attractions 13 Greentown Preservation Association

Holds Commemorative Gathering

26 Richland Carrousel Park Celebrates Anniversary

Sports & Recreation 14 Maureen O’Hara-Ganz:

A CPA with a Taxing Hobby

Health & Wellness 24 Hawkins Corner: A Dream Becomes Reality

Collector’s Corner 28 Pieces of Our Lives:

A Beach Glass Collector’s Pleasure

Family Life 38 Ohio to Montana and Back:

A Family Road Trip

44 A Time of Transition: Embracing the Future

Training & Education 46 A Big Change at Mansfield City Schools

Has Students Climbing the Walls!

Self-Improvement 51 Brand: You

Money Matters 57 Demystifying IRA Distributions

TABLE OF CONTENTS

D E P A R T M E N T S

3 From the Editor

48 Milliron Everyday Heroes

52 Restaurants & Eateries

58 Give Us Your Best Shot!

60 The Last Word

I N E V E R Y I S S U E

When summer attacks, how do you f ight back?

Answer the next featured question on Facebook.Look for this image throughout the magazine to find out our readers’ favorite home remedies for summer stings and rashes!

We do not endorse any treatments or products discussed in response to this question.

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

4 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 7: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

www.avitahealth.org

“We tried EVERYTHING.”

Darrell Davis standing beside the

Hyperbaric Oxygen Chamber at

Bucyrus Community Hospital

THE BUCYRUS

COMMUNITY

HOSPITAL

WOUND CENTER

IS AN

ESTABLISHED

CENTER

AND IS PROUD

TO BEAT THE

NATIONAL

AVERAGE IN

SUCCESS RATES.

WE SIMPLY HEAL

WOUNDS.

Self-referrals accepted.

Call 419-563-9899.

Darrell Davis and his physician struggled to heal Darrell’s diabetic foot ulcer that remained unhealed for nearly a year. Once infection struck, Darrell was sent to the Wound Center at Bucyrus Community Hospital.

“I was ready to get my foot healed, no matter what.”

At the Wound Center, Darrell was treated by a team of expert clini-cians, specifically trained in the latest and best methods to treat and heal chronic wounds. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) was part of his treatment.

“The staff helped me understand treatments and what to expect. They were easy to talk to and fun to be around.”

After six weeks of treatment in the BCH Wound Center, Darrell’s foot healed.

“If it wasn’t for the Wound Center at BCH, I don’t think my foot would have ever healed.”

Page 8: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Perhaps it is genetics; Dr. Lucille Ford’s grandfather was a pioneer, staking a claim on land in North Dakota. Living in a sod hut with his family he read law and passed the bar; Lucille’s mother was the first white child born in this territory, and one of the first women to attend college in North Dakota.

Lucille Garber Ford was born in Ashland, Ohio. She graduated from Ashland High School as Salutatorian in 1940, from Stephen’s College with an Associate Degree of Arts in 1942, received a B.S. in Commerce from Northwestern in 1944, and an MBA in 1945. In 1967, after five years of study she received her Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve, and in 1995 she received a Masters in Pastoral Counseling.

In 1947, after teaching at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania, Lucille and her husband Larry moved to Ashland, where she served on the Board of Directors as assistant secretary and personnel director of A.L. Garber Company.

At the age of 17 Lucille’s father told her that her education should include business and economics because she would eventually be at the head of A.L. Garber Company. The printing business, started by her grandfather and grown under her father’s watchful eye, employed 600 workers. To gain valuable experience and learn about the business Lucille spent summers working in the print shop and bindery.

After years at the head of the business, Lucille was approached by a company who was interested in purchasing A.L. Garber Company. After much thought, she decided the timing was right and that selling was the only right thing to do for her 44 stockholders, some of whom had invested their life savings in the company.

“I will never forget the meeting to finalize the sale. I walked into an enormous conference room that looked like something out of a movie. A blue haze of cigar smoke hung in the air as this little Ohio farm girl came walking into the

meeting alone to do battle with a room full of rich, important business men. I had made the decision that I wanted cash, not stock options, for my stockholders. I was responsible for their investment and I took that very seriously. It certainly wasn’t what this room full of men wanted to hear, but I stood my ground and got my way. Later, when the stock fell from twenty-two dollars per share to eight dollars per share it became very clear my decision had been the right one,” Lucille remembered.

Lucille Ford began her career at Ashland University (AU) in 1965, and continued until her retirement in 1995. Serving as a professor of Economics, Chair of the Economics Department, Dean of Special Programs, Dean of the School of Business and Economics, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Provost, her work continued with AU as chair of the Building on Strength Capital campaign. Dr. Ford’s peers credit her with refocusing Ashland University; laying the groundwork to build the institution we see today.

In 1974, Dr. Ford received an unexpected phone call. “The person on the other end said, ‘How would you feel about running for Lieutenant Governor of

Dr. Lucille Ford

A woman for all times

Dr. Lucille Ford delivers a commencement address at Ashland University

6 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 9: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

the state of Ohio?’. My response was, ‘I beg your pardon?’” Lucille laughs.

1978 was the first year the Ohio Governor and Lieutenant ran on a tandem ticket. Jim Rhodes was vacillating about running for a third term, and so the ticket of Republican Charles Kurfess and Lucille Ford was being advanced.

“I have learned over the years to never say ‘no’ right away, to think things through. I told the person that I had a full-time job at Ashland University, but that I would give it some thought. I’ve never seen myself as a political animal, and I was flattered that they would ask me to be the first woman to run for this office. When I discussed it with the powers that be at the University, they told me if I thought I could maintain my position as I ran they were behind me,” Lucille remembers.

And so it was that Lucille Ford found herself on a “fly around” to kick off this campaign. “We would hop in a plane and go from city to city to speak. I found myself walking into a huge room filled with the press in Columbus. As I walked up the aisle that had been left open to the podium I

heard someone say, ‘We’re going to make mincemeat out of her,’ and I was instantly angered. We took our places on the stage and eventually the questions began to be directed to me. One of the press said, ‘What would you do if you were Governor tomorrow?’ I spoke slowly and distinctly to control my anger and I said, ‘I would convene a meeting with the best minds I could find in the state of Ohio and we would come up with solutions to our problems.’ They realized I was not going to shrink from their questions and that I had a brain, and it was much better after that”, she said.

Eventually, Jim Rhodes announced he would run for an unprecedented fourth term; winning the second of two non-consecutive terms made him the longest running Governor in the state of Ohio.

In 1995, Lucille Ford retired from academia, leaving Ashland University to become the first President of The Ashland County Community Foundation (ACCF), where she still serves today. “We started with absolutely nothing, but today we have returned over four million dollars to the community. ACCF does, indeed, improve

the quality of life in Ashland County. I could say my service as President is an obligation — but really, it is a privilege — a legacy for the generations to come.”

The list of Dr. Lucille Garber Ford’s credentials, honors, and service is three pages long; it is dwarfed by meeting her face to face. She is graceful and self-effacing, “I have always tried to do the right thing. I’ve never been asked to do anything special; I was expected to do what was in front of me.” She embraces the principal of personal accountability, and believes insuring women have the opportunity to succeed in the work place is a logical goal. “To deny women the resources to succeed is a detriment to the economy of our country. We need the efforts and brain power of all our people to solve problems and create growth.”

Lucille Garber Ford is not just an economist; she is an “economic philosopher”. Not just a Ph.D., but a Doctor of dreams; this is a woman in tune with her times. •

INTERESTING PEOPLE

7JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 10: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Mansfield’s 1847 Oak Hill Cottage was restored to the splendor of the 1870s period when it opened to the public almost 30 years ago, and now attention has turned to restoring the landscape surrounding the house.

Three years into the project, the two Bay Magnolias that flanked the front porch for over 50 years, and the euonymus hedge at the curve of the front sidewalk are now gone. Also gone are the rounded boxwood shrubs bordering the edge of the stone porch slabs. These changes haven’t been arbitrary or approached hastily; in fact, they are many years in the making.

A historic landscape study, including archaeology and extensive research, was completed in 1983 while major restoration of the Cottage was under way. Through shifting priorities or other circumstances

the study gathered dust. In the interim, shrubbery of rather modern taste had been planted, matured and then overgrew the front yard; now they are to be removed as the historic plan is implemented. Today, as in the old photographs, the landscape includes the original neatly clipped expanse of yard, carriage drive, urns, rose trellis, lilac, mock orange and plantings mapped out in the 1983 study.

Oak Hill’s landscape teaches us much about the Romantic Revival Period of American architecture in which the Cottage was built; a period that saw the integration of building styles with landscape designs. Andrew Jackson Downing is the most prominent figure of this 1840s renaissance, followed closely by Alexander Jackson Davis, whose house plans Downing promoted and published.

Downing was America’s first professional landscape architect. The first of his several books was The Theory and Practice of Landscape Gardening. His book, Cottage Residences, followed in 1842 and included the house plans of Davis alongside Downing’s elaborations on landscape design, and every other aspect of exterior and interior taste.

Downing and Davis favored Gothic, but in later books included a range of designs from Swiss chalet, to Romanesque, Italian and Venetian. The firmly rooted American tradition of home ownership in all economic levels was strongly influenced by Downing, whose plans and writings recognized the ease of acquiring property and building in the American environment. Another of our unique traditions, the porch, has the roots of its popularity in his writings.

Restoring the PastThe Oak Hill Cottage Landscape Project

Today the rose trellis once again graces the walkway.

8 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 11: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

The man who had Oak Hill Cottage built, John Riley Robinson, was clearly a connoisseur of the latest trends. A slightly younger acquaintance, John Sherman, built his first house in the Gothic Revival style, as well, and his library in the Sherman Room of the Mansfield Public Library includes Downing’s and other plan books in the same vein.

The original concept of Oak Hill’s landscape followed Downing’s advice in pairing the Gothic with a style of landscape he called Picturesque; in essence, a landscape composed as you would a painting, and contrived to be a wild and natural setting. The concept went back to English landscape innovators of the previous century, but brought up-to-date in application far down many

rungs of the social and economic ladder from the level of the large English estates.

Research based primarily on old photographs reveals that Oak Hill’s landscape, which reflected Downings ideals, changed little through the later Victorian Period and into the early 1900s. Cast iron urns, a couple of garden statues and the porch furniture seen in the old photos in the later 1800s were not out of keeping with the Picturesque approach.

What is not seen, and has been discounted by photo research and archaeology, is a formal garden such as was alluded to in Louis Bromfield’s Green Bay Tree. This first book of Mansfield’s Pulitzer Prize winning author used the Cottage as a backdrop; but it was a novel after all, and the description of a

withering, sooty formal garden choking in its industrial age environment was as fictional as the book’s characters.

An encouragement for restoration of the landscape has been the acquisition of adjacent properties. Most importantly, the removal of houses west of the Cottage opened up the vista down the hillside to Mulberry Street. The acquisition and restoration of the carriage house about 15 years ago has begun to reestablish the feeling of the old homestead as the Jones family, who occupied the house for 101 years, saw it when they labeled photos of Oak Hill “Home Sweet Home”.

Most recently, the Historical Society has purchased the industrial building and lots on the hillside south of the Cottage so that, eventually, you will no longer need to stand on the porch roof to view Mansfield’s downtown skyline.

Things happen slowly sometimes at Oak Hill. From the purchase in 1964 it took 18 years to get restoration funded and seriously under way. The consternation of Mansfielders was palpable in newspaper articles and letters to the editor over whether the old vacant house would ever be restored. And now another 30 years have passed since archaeologist J. R. White began fieldwork scraping away sod and mapping the old carriage drive, but the work is finally bearing fruit. •

Oak Hill Cottage, 1853

J.R. Robinson, the man who had Oak Hill

Cottage built in 1847.

The grounds at Oak Hill Cottage, 1896

9JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 12: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

A Quality Tree ServiceEvery season has its own appeal, but

it’s also true that every season has an impact on trees. Whether you need pruning, tree removal, or stump grinding, A Quality is the one to call. They do after-storm cleanup, too! Let them keep your trees in optimum condition all year

grandmother’s orange anymore; Alta Greenhouse has a rainbow of colorful daylilies to capture your interest.

Plant materials, pots and fountains for the deck or the table top… Alta Greenhouse has what you need to create a living space that celebrates the great outdoors!

Find more information online at AltaGreenhouse.com or on Facebook.

Bob & Bob Door CompanyLocally owned and operated, Bob

and Bob Door Company has been offering fast, friendly, professional service since 1969. The company is owned by Shelby native, Robert D. Crabbs, and the office is managed by his daughter, Debbie Newmeyer.

Bob and Bob Door Company will be moving to a new location with a new warehouse and showroom. Currently located at 718 West Longview Ave, Rear;

Visit these area businesses to beautify your yard and home and make your time outdoors enjoyable.

419-529-2792935 Home Road Mansfi eldaltagreenhouse.com

FLORIST & GREENHOUSE

HERBS • PERENNIALS • LARGE GIFT SHOP

Florist for all occasions

Open Year ’RoundMon thru Sat 8 – 6Sun 10 – 5Call for seasonal hours

AQuality Tree Service

Tree Removal

Stump Grinding

Pruning

After-storm Cleanup

John V. Herrick, OwnerLicensed & Insured

CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE!419.589.8618

’round. Call John Herrick at 419.589.8618 for a free estimate and professional results.

Alta Florist & GreenhouseCreating an outdoor living space that

is pleasing to the eye and welcoming to the spirit requires color, texture and an understanding of your space and personal decorating style. At Alta Greenhouse, you’ll find things to create the look you want, with the expert advice to help you put it all together.

Shade or sun, you’ll love the burst of color from Picasso Petunias, beautiful pink flowers sporting ruffled green edges; or the dramatic look of Phantom Petunias, a black flower with a yellow star. Herbs are another wonderful addition to pots, and the Empress Wu Hostas, which grow to startling four and a half feet, claims the eye in any landscape. Daylilies are not just your

O u t d O O rL i v i n g

Page 13: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

they will soon be located at 903 West Longview Avenue, just east of Trimble Road in Mansfield. The company employs five full-time and two part-time employees.

Please come visit our new showroom and see why we were voted “The Best Garage Door Company” in Mid-Ohio for 2010 and 2011. The best products backed by the best service… that’s what you get from Bob and Bob Door Company.

Tree FrogSince it opened in August of 2010, Tree

Frog Canopy Tours has just kept on zipping along! Who goes to Tree Frog? Any active adventurist looking for over 4,000 feet of fun! It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Canopy tours are popular personal confidence builders for individuals, great team builders for corporate groups, and fun for families who want to experience something new together. Since their opening, Tree Frog has welcomed guests from 39 states and 36 countries.

Tree Frog Canopy Tours is open seven days a week, with fourteen to sixteen tours daily on weekends. During the fall season, up to 17 tours launch daily, selling out quickly as the leaves change colors.

Why not make this the year you see the great outdoors in a way you’ve never dreamed of seeing it before: Tree Frog Canopy Tours… they’ll take you into the trees longer, higher, faster! •

2012 TOUR PRICINGWeekday: $75.00 / PersonWeekend & Holidays: $85.00 / Person

Kids' Day (ages 10-17), every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday $60 per child (as always, must be accompanied by an adult).

Mohican Area’s “Must Do” Whether you are a nature lover, adventurist, or an adrenaline

junkie you will not want to miss this!For active adventurists ages 10 & above

meeting a weight requirement of 90-250 lbs.

2012 TOUR PRICINGWeekday: $75.00 / PersonWeekend & Holidays: $85.00 / Person

Kids' Day (ages 10-17), every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday $60 per child (as always, must be accompanied by an adult).

Mohican Area’s “Must Do” Whether you are a nature lover, adventurist, or an adrenaline

junkie you will not want to miss this!For active adventurists ages 10 & above

meeting a weight requirement of 90-250 lbs.

Located 9 miles S. of Loudonville • 21899 Wally Rd.

740-599-2662 • TreeFrogCanopyTours.com740-599-2662 • TreeFrogCanopyTours.com

OVER 4,000 FT. OFPure Fun!

Our 2 1/2 hour zipline, rappel & sky bridge adventure is an opportunity for a fun, unique & educational

outdoor experience you will never forget.

OPEN MAY - OCTOBERSee our website for additional restrictions, group pricing, & reservations.

Our 2 1/2 hour zipline, rappel & sky bridge adventure is an opportunity for a fun, unique & educational

outdoor experience you will never forget.

OPEN MAY - OCTOBERSee our website for additional restrictions, group pricing, & reservations.

OVER 4,000 FT. OFPure Fun!

Bob & Bob DOOR COMPANY

bobandbobdoor.com

800.676.2507

West Longview Ave.Mansfi eld | 419-747-2255

GARAGE DOORS • ENTRY DOORSSTORM DOORS • WINDOWS • MORE

Page 14: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

“ I read once that you should put a paste of meat tenderizer on bee stings to draw out the poison. I haven’t tried it so far, but I will if I get stung! ”

Susan E.Huron

Call us or visit us online to have our top quality

outdoor furniture delivered to you

anywhere in the country!

419-529-9887ericsoutdoorfurniture.com

2145 W. 4th St. | Ontario, OH 44906At the 4th Street entrance to the Richland Mall

LuxCraft Poly Furniture Features• Lifetime Warranty• Made from recycled milk jugs

• Stainless steel hardware• Won’t crack, fade or rot

Open tue-sat 9am-5pm

We have the area’s largest selection of herbs & perennials, � owering trees & shrubs and much more! At our Garden Barn Gi� Shop

and Q Boutique, you’ll � nd everything from food to fashion.

Herb FairSaturday, September 8

10am to 5pmOver 70 artists and cra� smen among the gardens!

Where beautiful gardens, special occasions and everyday living begin!

2810 Armstrong Rd., Wooster, OH 44691 | 330-345-6722 | quailcrest.comO� St. Rt. 83, 5 miles North of Wooster or 7 miles South of I-71, watch for sign.

Since 1948, Sandy Hill has been your one-stop source for fresh local produce, hummingbird feeders and lawn & garden

fertilizer & chemical needs!

Ashland Road • Lexington Ave.419-589-3944 • 419-756-3654

OPEN YEAR ’ROUNDMon. thru Sat. 8 – 8 Sun 8 – 6

12 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 15: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Allure StudiosFull Service Salon and Day Spa

491 & 495 Lexington AvenueMansfield, Ohio 44907419-774-9600www.allurestudios.net

$99 Day Spa Package$8 off

purchase of$30 or more

includes 1 hour massage or facial,

manicure and spa pedicure

New Client Special

Phone: 419-522-2965

Gallery Hours: Tue-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-3

96 North Main Street, Mansfield, Ohio 44902

Element of Art

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

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

Outdoor Living Areas Outdoor Kitchens & Bars Outdoor Lighting Outdoor Fireplaces

665 Sunset Blvd., Mansfield | 419-756-3229 | www.pacificimpressionsinc.com

Photo provided by Unilock

HOURS: Mon – Fri 8AM – 7:00PM | Sat 8AM – 6PM | Sun 9AM – 5PM

419.884.1993www.waynescountrymarket.com

Fresh Produce, Landscaping and Lawn Services, Mulch, Top Soil & more! Delivery Available.

2440 Lexington Ave Mansffi eld, Ohio 44907

Fresh Locally Grown Produce The Greentown Preservation Association 1812 Commemorative Gathering will be held Saturday, September 15 from 9 am to 5 pm at the Greentown-Delaware Indian village. The 52.4 acre site is in Section 18, Green Township, in Ashland County, 3 ½ miles northwest of Perrysville at 2498 State Route 39.

The Gathering pays tribute to those Delaware Indians who were removed from their village when Greentown was burned to the ground on September 2, 1812. Admission is $5.00 per vehicle to see the living history encampment, displays, vendors and other live demonstrations. There will be walking or shuttle tours of the Greentown site.

For more information, please visit www.greentownpreservation.org.

Greentown Preservation Association Holds Commemorative Gathering

MiGreps LLC

• Media• Business Networking• Project Consulting

P.O. Box 3822Mansfi eld, OH [email protected]

Mike Greene Reps

cell 419.565.1249

bus 567.247.4736

www.migreps.com

13JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 16: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Maureen O’Hara-Ganz is a CPA (Certified Public Accountant), a partner in Robert LeHew and Associates of Mansfield. She spends most of 8 to 10 hours each weekday sitting in front of a computer screen or calculator working with numbers. But that’s just part of her story.

Her day actually begin at about 5:30 AM with a workout routine designed to keep her body in shape for what is her true labor of love; caring for and training the 26 horses that are stabled at Ganz Farms Percherons just outside New London, about a 30 minute drive from her accounting office.

The majority of the horses that Maureen owns are Percherons, each weighing about 2000 pounds and standing around 18 to 19 hands high; that’s between 6 and 7 feet for those of you who, like myself, aren’t used to converting hands to inches.

The Percheron breed of draft horse originated in the Perche valley of Northern France and the exportation of them to the United States began in the late 19th century. Maureen paid $2000 for her first Percheron in 1997 when she was 32 years old. How old is she today? Well, due to my gentile upbringing I would never divulge a lady’s age but if you can’t figure that out for yourself, you might want to consider hiring her to do your taxes.

That initial Percheron purchase has led to the 26 horses that now call the barn at the Ganz farm “home”. Some of them were purchased at auction down in Mount Hope, Ohio; others were work horses on farms around Ohio. Maureen hesitates to say that any of her four-

legged giants should be considered rescue horses. She prefers to say, “We have a few that needed a management change from their previous life”.

That barn at Ganz Farms Percherons is one that would be the envy of any self-respecting steed. There is an area which Maureen calls, “draft horse alley” where each horse has his own sturdily built stall. There is also an arena for indoor exercising and training. Maureen’s husband, John, built the barn in 1999 in the spare time that he could find when not farming the 800 acres of land that, along with his wife’s income, helps to support an insatiable Percheron passion.

After Maureen’s own early morning workout she has to prepare and deliver breakfast to the Percherons and other horses in residence. While hay per horse

is not an exact science, each one gets a half to a full bale of hay a day; based on size and condition. She said that she also uses around six pounds a day for each horse of plain, soaked beet pulp pellets in two separate feedings. Throw in some barley, steamed rolled oats and cracked corn for all and you can see that hers is a “high end” equine bed and breakfast.

There is a reason that Maureen treats her horses, especially the Percherons, so well and that is because they are performers, showmen; entertainers if you will. Maureen and her all female crew of handlers (Megan, Brooke and Marian) take 8 to 10 of the horses to between 13 and 16 county fairs each summer. That’s why each morning after conditioning herself, Maureen then works out 2 or 3 of the group to get them ready for the coming weekends’ competition. There are no monetary rewards for finishing first, second or third. It’s just a ribbon or

Keeping Scorewith

Maureen O’Hara-GanzA CPA with a Taxing Hobby

CPA Maureen at her desk at Robert Lehew & Associates

14 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 17: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

a plaque and the satisfaction of knowing that the hard work of people and horses was appreciated.

Yes, each horse in the Percheron crew has a name. If a horse Maureen buys has already been a “hitch” horse, he already knows his name and so you don’t want to change it to something else as that could lead to chaos when you call them up to follow a command. For the record the Ganz Farms Percherons competitive hitch horses are Bart, Thunder, Bolt, Joe, Sampson, Beau, Ike, Luke, Duke, Jon, Roy and Tribute. Beau and Jo are the only two of the group to be given their names by Maureen. When she got them they had names she just couldn’t live with; Manwich and Sabo respectively. I’d say she made the right decision.

Each of the competitions at the county fairs is different from the one before or the ones to come. Some compete with one cart, others with two horse tandems and still others with 8, 10 and more horse hitches. With the larger hitches the Percherons perform different duties. The “wheel” horses (those closest to the wagon) are the weight carriers. Those in the center are referred to as the “swing” horses and those out front are the “lead” horses and they must be good listeners.

You may have noticed that all of the Percherons on the Ganz farm are males and that is by design; Maureen’s design.

She told me that, while some run hitches of mares, she does not because “the females are apt to be temperamental” (her words, not mine). Some of the competitors will legally medicate their mares to calm them down but Maureen prefers to handle her male hitch through strength and know how.

Strength is an absolute must have in order to control the 20,000 pounds

of well-muscled horse flesh that your see galloping in front of you as you sit in the driver’s seat. Maureen, who stands 5'9" and weighs not much more than 140 pounds, has upper arms (guns) on her that would make most male weightlifters envious.

As a Percheron FYI, the average life expectancy for a well-cared for member of this breed could be in the early 20s. But

Six-horse hitch at 2010 Lorain County FairPhoto by Marjorie O’Hara

Maureen and “pampered”

Percheron, Joe

15JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 18: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

you do lose some at the most unexpected times. A couple of years ago, Maureen was working with an 8 hitch group of her horses at home when one of them collapsed and died of an aneurysm. The horse, Nitro, was an 18 year old veteran, having worked with his hitch mates for a few years. As you can imagine the job of unhooking and removing the dead horse from the rest of the group could have been a complicated and dangerous process. But, Maureen said that the rest of Nitro’s co-workers stood silently as the uncoupling was accomplished; as if they knew that their friend was gone.

Raising Percherons is not an inexpensive hobby, especially when you do things on the scale that Maureen does them. You not only have to feed them, you have equipment, travel expenses, veterinarian bills and much more that must be paid for and you have to care for the investment every day of the year. Because of that last item, I asked Maureen when she is able to take a vacation… to which she quickly answered, “this is my vacation”. She loves her job; both jobs.

If these couple of pages has caused you to want to see and know more about Maureen and her Percherons, they’ll be performing all over Ohio and in Pennsylvania too this summer. Three county fairs that I know they’ll be at are the Lorain County Fair in August and the Ashland and Wayne County fairs in September.

If you do attend a fair where the Ganz Farms Percherons are performing, please don’t yell out, “hey Jon, keep up the good work”. If you do, Maureen’s husband John might be in the audience and stand up, thinking you’re offering congratulations to him but, hitch horse Jon might also hear it and , thinking he’s being given a command from the wagon, turn the performance into disaster. I say that as a member of the family since I actually am the third cousin of Maureen O’Hara-Ganz from New London, Ohio. •

There is an old saying, “don’t put the cart before the horse”, that applies to Maureen’s love of Percherons. She actually did begin collecting carriages before she purchased her first draft horse. It was her Dad, David, who suggested that it would probably be a good idea if his daughter came up with something to pull the ornate collectors carts that they were spending good money to acquire.

Maureen bought her first cart down in Mount Hope, Ohio, not far from Millersburg. Her collection has grown to more than a dozen including the beautiful, white vis-à-vis that she is seated in above. That was new when she bought it but others are relics of the past that require extensive rehabilitation before they can be hooked up to anything.

The A & D Buggy Shop on Township Road 628, just outside of Millersburg, has been buying, selling and restoring horse drawn carriages for nearly half a century and Ganz Farms Percherons has been a very good customer for the past 15 or so years. Maureen treats this part of her life with horses as more of a hobby. The carriages are not used in the performances at the various fairs at which she competes.

The vis-à-vis is, on occasion, offered to friends and family to dress up a wedding, but it’s not something that Maureen is considering turning into a business. As you can tell from the main story, her time is pretty well accounted for… and then some.

… and carriages on the side

Mike Greene spent nearly 30 years in radio and television reporting and

his voice was familiar to mid-ohio’s sports fans from the hundreds of college and high school football and basketball

games he called. His reporting and play-by-play work received recognition

from the Associated Press as well as the Ohio High School Athletic Association.

Mike still does free lance play-by-play work for several cable networks.

Wagon ride at Ganz Farms Percheron

Bride and attendants in wedding vis-à-vis

16 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 19: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

“ When we lived in the south, we had f ire ants to deal with. Their venom is very alkaline so you could just pour your soda pop on the stinger holes! The acid in the pop neutralizes the bite. ”

Lucille B.Delaware

www.johnnysmattress.com

MATTRESS & FURNITURE

Discover our new look for the new year.Introducing Charles Schneider Custom Furniture. Work with knowledgeable, trained professionals with over 50 years of collective experience.

Visit us online for all FIVE Johnny’s locations

American Made, Quality Furniture & North Central Ohio’s Best Sleep Source

419-524-8411 MANSFIELD 800-755-RFME (7363) TOLL FREE

419-524-3042 FAX

44 Sturges AvenueMansfi eld, OH 44902

HOMEAUTOBUSINESSLIFEHEALTH

www.rfmeins.com

Professionalism you can count on…Integrity you can trust.

Mid-Ohio’s Leader!

44 West Fourth Street, Mans� eld419-522-2332

www.littlebuckeye.orgOpen Wed thru Sat 10-6, Sun 1-6

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

17JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 20: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

“ My mom always put toothpaste on our poison ivy — the white kind, not the gel. It smells good and it does help with the itching. ”

Brian K.Mt. Vernon

1451 Spruce Street Extension, Wooster, OH 44691 | www.waynehabitat.org

in Wayne CountyTo make a donation or schedule a pickup, call

330.264.4999Most donations are tax-deductible.

Habitat wants your new or used appliances in good working condition (stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers, air conditioners, dishwashers, etc.).

Stop in at our store for some great fi nds! It’s open to the public.

Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose.Restoring refi nement to old items

Yesterday.Today.

Tomorrow.

The possibilities are endlessat your Library.

Main Library • Butler • BellvilleCrestview • Lexington • Lucas

Madison • Ontario • Plymouth

www.mrcpl.org

The Ohio State ReformatoryListed on the “101 Things to Do Before You Die”

2012 TOUR SEASON

100 Reformatory Road, Mansfi eld, Ohio 44905 • 419-522-2644 • www.mrps.org

GUIDED TOURSSundays 1pm – 4 pm • May 1st – September 9th

West Tower Tour • 1:00 1:45 2:30 3:15

East Cell Block Tour • 1:15 2:00 2:45 3:30

Hollywood Tour • 1:30 2:15 3:00 3:45

SELF GUIDED TOURSMon – Sat. 11am – 4pm

May 1st – September 8th

General Tour of Building

Admission: Adults $9.00 • Children & Seniors $7.00

18 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 21: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Decoratingwith inspiration

Page 22: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

WWhat inspires a person is as individual as the person themselves. There are many commonalities however that most of us might have on our list of things that inspire us.

Maybe it is nature. Or music. How about a beautiful smile? Or art. A cherished loved one? A place. The moment when the sun lowers itself below the horizon? Faith. A perfect evening?

The list is endless. But when someone knows exactly what is inspiring their ideas or motives, it makes my role as a designer very easy. Very quickly, I am able to focus in on what is inspiring them and… voila… I am able to gather the inspiration for their project!

Such was the case when my clients approached me in January of 2011 with architectural plans for a home on Lake Erie. They had purchased a fabulous lot

in the re-developed Bay Point Community located just below Marblehead, Ohio. Their goal was to build a summer home large enough to accommodate their grown children and their families, have an open floor plan, and windows everywhere to capture the expansive views of Lake Erie and the Sandusky Bay that can be seen from both front and back.

Hence, their inspired inspiration: children, grandchildren, family and friends. Boats, beaches, water, sunsets and fun. And what fun we had!

Once all the details were completed by the architect, my clients and I set out on a collaborative adventure to bestow upon their lake home the grandeur that she deserved as she became a jewel on the peninsula of Bay Point! With dark grey shake shingle siding and pristine white trim, her three stories, which includes a

usable third story windowed room known as the home’s “crow’s nest”, towers over the waters of the lake and bay. Beautiful curved eyebrowed windows greet road and water gazers from both the front and back of the home, creating the vision of the stately lady gazing back with an inquisitive look and an offer of welcome. She is surrounded by sturdy rock and concrete, allowing for large outdoor living spaces for sunbathing, entertaining, grilling, morning cups of coffee for the sunrise, and evening glasses of wine for the sunset. And every level of her three stories offers private decks with glassed railings so that family and guests can rest in one of the many outdoor gliders and enjoy an unobstructed view of the passing boats, swelling waves or the fireworks of Cedar Point Amusement Park.

And that’s just the outside! Inside, she shines as brightly as well. Reinforced

Inspiration [noun] The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to do something creative: “flashes of inspiration”. In order for a person to have inspiration, they must first be inspired.

Inspire [verb] Fill (someone) with the urge or ability to do or feel something.

20 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 23: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012
Page 24: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

with strategically placed steel beams, her floor plan is left wide open, without pillars, allowing for sweeping views in all directions of her interior beauty as well as the windowed outdoor wonders that can be seen in most all directions. And when one cannot see outside, there are interior features to be enjoyed inside as well. The complete openness of the home allows for a cohesive flow from one area to the next: living room, kitchen, sunroom and entertainment bar area. Every family member can easily be seated around the expandable dining table for a meal, watch a movie together in the evening or gather around the bar area for a toast to long lives and good health. And when the day comes to an end and solitude is sought, each family can retreat to one of the many bedroom suites that await them for a sweet slumber that is sure to revitalize them for the following day of fun, boating and sunning on the waters of Lake Erie.

Inspiration for the lovely lady’s interior décor came from the expected cues of her surroundings. Tidewater blues, sandy beiges, sunrise yellows and sunset oranges paint her walls that are bordered by warm wooden floors in the kitchen and main entry areas and soft carpeted floors in the living areas and bedrooms. Crisp white cabinetry accented with beadboard and rope beading punctuate the kitchen and bathrooms, creating a neutral grounding for the multifaceted granite slabs chosen for their unique veining and movement which emulate the ebb and flow of the waters outside. Comfortable sofas and chairs created by nearby Ohio manufacturer, Norwalk Furniture, beckon to the inhabitants to sit, rest, ponder and play in the many seating areas throughout the home. Pastel painted tables and chests create a playful palate against the sand and shell themed comforters, plushly made up on welcoming adult beds and a baby crib.

Finally, a few slightly unexpected inspirations have become the interior jewelry of the freshly introduced debutante. A richly stained tongue and groove vaulted ceiling in the study gained its inspiration from a passing by Lyman boat, a boat reminiscent of days long ago spent as a child in the cabins at Gem Beach. A spiral staircase cantilevered over

Page 25: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

the great room circles guests upward to the crow’s nest inspired by “the best view on any boat”. And the crown for this lady is the entertainment bar area which is situated at the base of her sweeping staircase in the center of all her grandness. Its inspiration: the winery at Mon Ami in Port Clinton, Ohio. The curved bar front

was custom created to look like wine barrels were dismanteled, metal strapping and all, and reassembled to become an accented focal point for an already interesting environment.

Inspiration… this time, this project, for this designer, it was easily understood and easily executed. I am quite certain that the

beautiful jewel of Bay Point and all she has to offer will inspire many a family member and fortunate guest to relax and enjoy one another along the shores of Lake Erie for many years to come. All brought to life by a husband and wife who paid attention to what inspires them in life and worked hard to make those dreams come true. •

Julie McCready and husband Tom own Norwalk The Furniture Idea/McCready

Interiors in Mansfield, Ohio. McCready and a talented staff of designers offer residential

and commercial design as well as quality, affordable furniture for the entire home.

LOCAL 419.747.7055 TOLL FREE 888.262.7632N. Lex-Springmill Rd., MansfieldFashionable. Affordable.

Residential/Commercial Design

HOURS Mon & Fri 10-8 | Tue, Wed, Thu & Sat 10-6 | Sun 1-5

www.mccreadyinteriors.com

23JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 26: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

For almost 40 years, the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. (AAA), located in Mansfield, has been providing services, supports and education to seniors and caregivers in Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca, and Wyandot Counties. One of 12 area Agencies in Ohio, the AAA, is part of a network dedicated to ensuring seniors and disabled Ohioans have options that will allow them to remain in their homes. A private, nonprofit business, the AAA receives Federal, State and Local funding to manage a variety of programs ranging from those that provide education, information and referral, advocacy, home repair, assistance and navigation into other programs, transportation, home delivered meals, personal care, and volunteer opportunities. In order to carry out its mission and execute programs, the AAA employs 105 of the most dedicated and professional staff I know. The AAA is fortunate to be governed by a Board of Trustees and to have a group of Advisory Council members who provide insight into the needs of seniors and the communities they represent. Furthermore, the AAA is privileged to service a region that is rich in its human resources. It is a joy to have so many providers, individuals, businesses, organizations, institutions of learning, and advocates work so closely and in unison for the benefit of others.

When I came to the AAA in 1994 as the Human Resource Director, the AAA employed 58 staff and was on the verge of significant growth. That growth and the expansion of services and programs have literally not stopped since. At the same time, I was given the opportunity to grow

professionally, and today am proud to lead the organization as the Chief Executive Officer, working for the staff and consumers of the organization.

A very wise man, whom I have a great deal of respect for, once told me to “look for opportunities, don’t waste a crisis and always have a dream.” When faced with a crisis or challenge, I turn to my teams and seek opportunities that will help us overcome the crisis or challenge and make us and the organization stronger. To ensure the AAA continues to grow and meet the needs of our aging population, myself and other leaders within the organization are constantly looking for opportunities that will benefit those we serve. Have a dream… I like this one. I spend a fair amount of time reflecting, forecasting and thinking about what the future could bring.

One thing has always been certain and constant, and that is change. The AAA has had to change and evolve in order to conform to State and Federal Policies, to meet the needs of the growing population, and to stretch and diversify its resources in tough economic times.

So why not DREAM BIG? That is exactly what I did.

My dream for many years has been to expand the Agency’s facilities to allow for on-site programs for seniors, a large community room for events and training

and a place where we could share space with other non-profits who serve

seniors and the community. Others embraced and

believed in this dream and together we loved

to talk about it. It was a January

afternoon: Kathy Daniels, the AAA’s Board President and I were attending meetings in Knox County. Being a fairly new Board President, Kathy

took this travel time as an opportunity to

ask me where I thought Agency would

be in five to ten years. I shared my dream. My reply

was this, “I want the Agency to have a facility in which we can have all staff under one roof, a place where seniors can come for educational programs and some socialization. I have this vision that the AAA could develop a place that we could share with other non-profits, thus making it easier for our consumers to access services.” I could feel Kathy becoming very intrigued and interested in what I was describing. I explained to her that the AAA currently shares space with the Alzheimer’s Association and this arrangement offers advantages operationally and fiscally to our organizations and customers.

Hawkins Corner: A Dream Becomes Realityby Duanna Patton, Chief Executive Officer, Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

A very wise man, whom I

have a great deal of respect for, once told me to “look for

opportunities, don’t waste a

crisis and always have a dream.”

24 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 27: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

“Wouldn’t it be great to invite additional organizations to share space with us?” I asked. Kathy couldn’t get a word in as I further described my vision taking place in a building such as the former Hawkin’s (Geyer’s) Market. “It would be perfect,” Kathy agreed. But of course, the building had been for sale and was currently in contract. An even greater barrier to such a vivid dream was that the asking price of the building was not in our budget.

Kathy, being a visionary herself, invited me to share this dream with her husband Dave. Dave, a “get it done” kind of guy who knows lots of people, arranged for me to meet Mr. Hawkins. I was thrilled at the opportunity and not because Mr. Hawkins owned a magnificent building, but because he and I shared a history of the grocery business. I grew up in the grocery business in the small town of Byhalia, Ohio. There, three generations of Jolliff ’s owned and operated a shopping center, selling groceries, dry goods, gasoline, and other ancillary services. My meeting with Mr. Earl Hawkins was memorable. We spoke only briefly about the AAA and my vision. We spent more time reminiscing about the grocery business, the introduction of the first digital produce scale and electronic cash register. It was like talking to my grandfather whom I lost several years ago.

I had the pleasure of hearing about Mr. Hawkins’ years in the service, fighting in the war and how he and his wife, Betty, worked together to establish successful businesses. I love local history and understanding where people have been and how they got to where they are. Earl (as I call him now) can remember very vivid details and sometimes I found myself wrapped up in his story as if I were there selling produce with him and Betty on a quaint street in Ashland, Ohio.

With the building at Park Avenue West and Lexington-Springmill Road still under contract with a potential buyer, I continued to dream and treasured the time I had to get to know Earl Hawkins.

It was just a few months later when I received a call from Mr. Hawkins, inviting

me to meet with him at his Corporate Office in Wooster. I looked forward to a second meeting and was eagerly anticipating knowing the purpose of the meeting. I had heard that the sale of the building had fallen through. During my second meeting with Mr. Hawkins, he asked, “Are you still interested in that building down in Richland County?” I replied, “Oh yes, but Earl, the Area Agency could never offer you what that building is worth.” Without hesitation and a grin on his face, Earl said, “Young lady, I don’t want your money; I want to give you that building.” I think time stood still for a minute or two and I’m sure I responded with a trembling voice, but am uncertain as to what exactly came out of my mouth. I do know that it was a sincere thank you and comments of appreciation. Earl and I exchanged some additional small talk and agreed to get together soon after I shared his offer and generosity with the AAA’s Board.

I clearly remember what happened next. I went to my car, and the feeling I had was the same feeling I had when the doctor told me I was having twins some 20 years ago - It was a feeling of joy and apprehension, for a remarkable gift was given and the unknown of how I was going to bring the dream to fruition made me anxious and excited. I phoned Kathy Daniels and shared the news. The AAA and Mr. Hawkins worked together to make the transition of “the gift” official.

Today, the building is empty, but the dream is coming alive. The AAA Foundation, under the guidance and support of a building committee, is working with the architectural firm of MKC. The design concept will ensure there are functional and inviting spaces for staff and consumers. There will be tenant and shared space for several other non-profits.

The AAA hopes to open Hawkins Corner in early 2013. My dream is that Mr. Earl Hawkins will join me and others as we open the doors and welcome the community in!

For updates on this project, please visit the AAA website: www.aaa5ohio.org. •

Do you want tomake a difference

Do you or a lovedone need information?

Do you or a lovedone need help?

[email protected]

We can help...

We have answers...

We can make a difference for you...

25JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 28: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

CARE LIKE YOU’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE.

825 State Route 61Marengo, Ohio 43334

419-253-0144 or toll free 1-888-BEN-GLEN

www.bennglen.com

Nursing and Rehabilitation CenterThe Villas Assisted Living

Bennington Glen

• Cosmetic Dentistry• Complete & Partial Dentures• Porcelain Veneers• Tooth Whitening

James Saltzgiver, D.D.S.C O M P R E H E N S I V E D E N T I S T R Y

419.756.1379

Exceptional Care for Exceptional People

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

370 CLINE AVE., MANSFIELD

• Crowns & Bridgework• Root Canals• Preventive Dentistry

OFFICE HOURSBY APPOINTMENT

What do you say to a business that’s been going around in circles for over twenty years? Happy 21st anniversary, Richland Carrousel Park (RCP/the Park)!

In 2010, RCP started the tradition of celebrating the Park anniversary with a run-bike-walk, and this year the event has grown based upon the success of the previous years. On Saturday, October 6th at 7:00 a.m. you can register for a bike tour (starts at 9:00 a.m.) that will wind through several beautiful Mansfield Parks (6.8 miles) before joining the Richland B&O Trail (40 mile loop). A 5K Run/Walk starts at the Park and winds through downtown, or the whole family might opt for the Fun Mile Run/Walk through downtown. All pre-registered run/walk entrants will receive an event T-shirt. Same day registration will receive a T-shirt while supplies last.

If a little slower pace is more appealing, Tim McKee will host a leisurely historic walk through downtown; there will be free entertainment in the Brick Yard, and all participants will receive a free ride token on the Carrousel.

The 5K run will be officially timed by the Ashland Cross Country Parents. For those coming in the night before the big run, Holiday Inn offers reduced rates for runners/walkers, and a delicious “carb crammer” spaghetti buffet dinner in the dining room Friday evening.

For information on sponsorship opportunities for this event, like corporate teams, vendor tables, or to donate as a phantom runner, call Richland Carrousel Park at 419.522.4223, or visit them on the web at: www.RichlandCarrousel.com. •

Richland Carrousel Park Celebrates Anniversary

26 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 29: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

“You can trust our people and our products to provide you with the best home health care possible.”

- Ary VanHarlingen President of Shaw Ott Medical

270 Lexington Avenue, Mansfi eld, Ohio 44907Phone: 419-524-4388 | Toll Free: 877-742-9688 | Fax: 419-525-2354

Let us keep you active!

Lift Chair

StairLift

Scooters & Power Chairs

Page 30: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

It has been said that every time a sailor drowns a mermaid cries. Their remorseful tears wash up onto the shore as tiny glass pellets. You probably know these lovely droplets as sea glass or beach glass. Whatever you call this disappearing gem, there are many people who love collecting and using these beautiful pieces of glass. I consider it to be the ultimate in recycling; there are a lot of scavengers like me who cannot resist collecting these beautifully finished pieces of glass from beaches around Ohio and around the world.

Generally speaking, sea glass comes from the sea and beach glass refers to any glass from fresh water. Glass that comes from the sea has slowly dissolved in the salt water, giving it a satin-like patina. Beach glass has edges that are rounded and a surface distorted by movement through the tumbling water. The Ph of salt water is different from that of fresh water, but some lectures I’ve attended claim the Ph of Lake Erie is similar to that of the ocean. They point to that as the contributing factor to the beautiful finish of the glass that can be found on its shores.

Sea and beach glass is found all around the world, and in every color of the rainbow. Trash dumped in the water, old washed out dump sites, glass from wrecked ships, vehicles, any glass item washed into a body of water has the potential to become sea or beach glass.

Beach glass is treasured for its color. The most commonly found is “white”, or frosted clear glass; the most common shape found is triangular. I often throw pieces of “raw” glass, or glass that is still recognizable back into the lake when I find

it on the beach. There is really no clear answer to the question, “How long does it take Mother Nature to create a piece of finished beach glass?” Some collectors claim a minimum of twenty to thirty years, but of course it’s dependent upon the Ph level and movement of the water. Ideally, a piece of glass is hydrated and dehydrated over many years to develop the thickly frosted patina, but the tumbling action actually rounds, smoothes and defines the piece into a gem.

Every collector loves to find cobalt blue. It is less common, and these beautiful pieces are most likely from Vicks Vapo-Rub, Noxzema, Bromo Seltzer, or Milk of Magnesia bottles. Greens, browns and aqua are generally from old

medicine bottles or soda and beer bottles with very thick bottoms necessary because they were constantly being

refilled and reused. Red is a treasured color, likely from perfume bottles,

lanterns, traffic lights and vehicles discarded in the water. It’s very

unusual to find a large piece of red beach glass.

Black glass is rare and valued, the main source being from shipwrecks. Black medicinal, wine and gin bottles were used to protect the precious contents from sunlight on long voyages, a practice that disappeared by the mid 1800’s. The only pieces I

have ever seen were on display at a North American Sea Glass

Association Convention. Pink and lavender are my favorite

colors to find. These pieces often started out as clear glass that had been clarified with manganese (lavender) or selenium (pink). Over the years the sun causes the manganese and selenium to oxidize, leaving the glass in one of these two beautiful shades. The use of manganese in the United States peaked in the years between 1880 and 1915, so a piece of purple, sun-colored glass found on a beach today is very likely to be nearly 100 years old.

I’ve collected beach glass for a number of years, and it would not be unusual for you to find me on a beach in the early morning searching out these small pieces of other people’s lives. Thinking of the glass starting its journey in some anonymous place, being tumbled around for years, and now having found its way to the beach to lie at my feet on any particular morning intrigues me. Every shard carries a history I will likely

Pieces of Our LivesA beach glass collector’s pleasure

COLLECTORS CORNER

28 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 31: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

never know, but its story whispers through my mind with each piece I discover. I enjoy collecting these pieces so much that I’ve designed and created beach glass jewelry, and used it for decorating. The uses that seem to draw the most attention, however, are a bathroom vanity top in a summerhouse at Lake Erie, and the floor of a spare bathroom at our home in town. Using pieces of beach glass I created a mosaic, then grouted and sealed the surfaces. The result is quite durable and certainly out of the ordinary.

Jewelry is always unique when the gem is beach glass. Pitted or included glass is especially interesting, and stones can be drilled under water to use for pendants, earrings and rings. Wrapping some of the larger pieces in wire is another way to create pendants that are delightfully personal and one of a kind.

If you’re not a patient beachcomber or if you need a large quantity of glass you can find tumbled or chemically treated glass available in bulk on the Internet. This glass can be very attractive in landscapes or planters, any place you need a larger amount. The beauty of buying manufactured “beach glass” is that you can find any color, the source and size is predictable and it’s relatively inexpensive. Buyer beware certainly applies to any small quantities of “genuine beach glass” or jewelry you buy. Much of the glass sold is not authentic; it pays to know who you’re dealing with if you want the real thing. There’s certainly nothing wrong with any of it as long as you know what you’re paying for.

I believe the person who said, “One man’s junk is another man’s jewel,” must have been a collector of beach glass. As a hobby there is good news and bad news…cleaning up the waterways is positive for our environment, but those gains and the replacement of glass containers with aluminum and plastic has greatly reduced the amount of beach glass. At some point this beautiful litter will simply cease to exist. Before that happens I recommend you look around you next time you’re fortunate enough to be walking on a beach; you might just find one of nature’s recycled gems at your feet. •

Charles P. Hahn, CFP®

Cleveland Financial GroupAffiliated with Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp.Member SIPC108 North Main Street, Rear Building, Mansfield, Ohio 44902Tel. 419.522.4333 • Fax 419.522.3303 • [email protected]

EMERGENCY RESPONSE SYSTEMS (ERS)

FIRE EQUIPMENT & INSPECTIONS

INTEGRATED CCTV & ACCESS CONTROL

RESIDENTIAL SECURITY

SAFE. SECURE. SCHMIDT.

Local and trusted since 1976.www.schmidtsecurity.com

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

Schmidt Security Pro :241 Mansfi eld Industrial Parkway Mansfi eld, Ohio 44903

6481 Kinney RoadMount Vernon, Ohio 43050

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

29JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 32: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

LightA

Shoreon the

Page 33: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

FFor over twenty-five years it has perched on the rocky cliffs of South Bass Island, aka Put-in-Bay, jutting out over Lake Erie like a huge lacustrine sentinel. The 7,000 square foot forecastle section of the Benson Ford, a 612-foot ore boat, is one of the most unique homes in the country.

Twin ships, the Benson Ford and the Henry Ford II, were launched in 1924 as the cornerstones of the Ford Motor Company’s lake transport system. Named for Henry Ford’s grandsons, the ships moved iron ore and related materials across the Great Lakes to feed supplies to the growing auto company.

Benson FordThe maiden voyage of the Benson Ford

was April 26, 1924. It would sail the Great Lakes until being decommissioned in 1981, when it was renamed the Dykstra.

In 1984, the Dykstra was salvaged and sold to Frank J. Sullivan of Cleveland, Ohio. The huge ship sat at a dock on the Cuyahoga River for nearly two years as the owner pondered what to do with his new acquisition. He eventually decided on an unconventional use, and on July 3, 1986, the forward superstructure of the Dykstra was removed to a barge for transportation to South Bass Island to be used as a four-story summer home for the Sullivan family.

Henry Ford IIThe sister ship, Henry Ford II, first

sailed on August 14, 1924, launched by the Ford grandsons through electrical remote control in Detroit. Retired from the Ford fleet on December 28th, 1988, it was renamed the Samuel Mather (7).

The Marine Recycling Corporation of Port Colborne, Ontario bid on the Benson Ford, the Henry Ford II, and the William Clay Ford. The William Clay, 767 feet long, was too big to exit the upper lakes through the canals/locks. The company won the bid for the Henry Ford II, and it was towed to their yard for salvage.

Wayne Elliott, Director of Business Development for Marine Recycling shared this story about the Henry Ford II, “It was the most unique ship we ever salvaged. Henry Ford had many things chromed in

the ship, including port lights and covers, handrails in the engine room, steps, electric motor covers and railing stations. Crowds of people showed up to buy the salvage. The stack, which collapsed en route via truck, was taken to the Ford Museum in Michigan. The unloading boom is still at Port Weller Dry-docks, barged there in 1996 in four pieces. The wheelhouse sat on our lot and was used as an outbuilding for many years; about two years ago, we finally cut it up because

vandals had broken out all the glass. I’ve had a standing invitation from the Ford Museum to come see the pieces of the Henry Ford II on display, but I haven’t made it yet.”

Bryan Kasper, current owner of the Benson Ford ship house, relates this story about the installation, “This is the story I heard. It seems creating this ‘ship house’ wasn’t as popular with some people as you might think. The iron foundation

Bryan Kasper with wife Emily and sons Carson and Parker

31JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 34: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

was installed on the cliff ahead of time, and the ship section was placed on the kind of trucks you would use to move a house. Those trucks were driven onto a barge that sailed out into the lake to remain concealed behind the islands until five-o’clock on Friday evening. They rammed the barge into the cliff, blew out the ballast, and when the barge rose they pulled the ship house onto the iron foundation and welded it into place. By the time Monday rolled around, and the courthouse opened, the ship was securely in place. It would have been hard to do much about it then.”

By 1992, the Sullivans had lost a long legal battle with the Put-In-Bay Township Zoning Board when they sought a permit to allow the ship house to be used as a bed and breakfast. It was decided to look for a buyer for the property and

eventually, in 1999, the Sullivans held an “open outcry real estate auction” that produced more than 128 inquiries from ten states and Canada, and 58 inspections from interested parties.

Bryan Kasper recalled his first look at the ship house. “My Dad and I took our wives out to take a look at the property. It was in sad shape, with screens and windows broken out, old and worn out carpeting and lots of junk in the place. Ceiling fans and light fixtures were hanging out of the ceilings. We went over the place and when we got back into the car to head back to the boat everyone in the car said, “Boy, I wouldn’t want to try to bring that place back; too much work for me. No way!” I didn’t say much, but in my head I was thinking, “I work with cars, I can fix that!” I was in love with the place

from that first visit. I knew I wanted to bid on it, but I also thought it would probably be out of my price range.

At the time of the auction Bryan Kasper’s wife, Emily was out of town on business. Forging ahead, Bryan got a cashier’s check for a down payment, “Just in case,” he said.

“I went to the auction, and there were a lot of people in the room, twenty or more, and a lot of others on phones. First thing you know I am the high bidder! I was in a daze as they led me into another room to start the paperwork,” Bryan shakes his head and laughs as he remembers.

“I told them I wanted to call my wife before I signed anything, so I called her cell phone and she answered. Standing with all these people around me I said, “Honey, good news! We got the house!” There’s a pause and Emily said, “What

The Benson Ford juts proudly over the cliffs of South Bass Island.

32 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 35: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

house?” and I replied “The ship house”. She hung up on me. I looked around me and said, “We got disconnected”, so I called right back and she answered and I repeated that we had gotten the house. She said, “Are you serious, Bryan?” I said, “Yes, I’m not kidding!” and she hung up on me again. I continued to talk into the dead phone, “Oh, you’re excited, too! Great, talk to you later, sweetheart.”

“I know I was in a daze as we signed the papers, and then I walked out into the other room to about fifty news people with cameras and microphones. It hadn’t occurred to me it would be a media event! As I went through the door someone stuck a microphone in my face and said, “How do you feel about winning the auction, Bryan?” and my honest response was, “My wife is gonna kill me.”

There may have been a few nights of sleeping on the couch, but things have a way of working out. Bryan says now Emily loves the place, too; she and his sons, Carson (10) and Parker (8), spend more time there than he does.

During the initial cleanup that first year they hauled away 40 yard dumpster loads of junk and clutter. New floors, carpets and repairs had to be made, coolers and appliances had to be brought back to life, and air conditioning installed.

“In the summer the ship house was one big radiator. It’s solid steel, and when it heated up you couldn’t put enough fans in there to make it bearable. We had to retrofit a high-pressure air system, the challenge being to find workmen with the knowledge to work on a four-story steel structure like this. You can’t just cut holes in walls or floors, it’s not an easy thing to do when you start even the simplest projects,” Bryan said.

After he purchased the house Bryan contacted the Ford family and received permission to use the ship’s original name. “Benson Ford” was proudly restored to the side of the ship house, and high atop the structure is a large “K” for Kasper.

This fantastic home has a first floor game room with a bar/kitchen area that the Kasper’s designed and renovated. The second and third floors house four

The bedrooms are luxuriously appointed.

The back of the ship house with garage area.

The walnut paneled dining room which was used by the Henry Ford family and guests.

33JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 36: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

bedrooms, four bathrooms and two elegant staterooms, plus the galley kitchen and dining room; this is where Henry Ford, his family, and friends, like Thomas Edison, dined as they traveled Lake Erie in luxury.

The beautiful black walnut paneling and brass fixtures are intact throughout the structure, and the fourth floor wheel room still has all the original equipment

in place. Standing at the helm with a view of the lake it is easy to imagine you’re out on the open water.

Bryan hasn’t wavered from his “love at first sight” reaction to the ship house. “It’s my baby. I try to do one project every year to the place, and it just gets better and better. How lucky can you get? We have this wonderful retreat just a

20-minute ferry ride away where I can unhook and getaway.”

Bryan Kasper and his father, Jerry, own Kasper Auto Group in Sandusky, Ohio.

For more information on the Benson Ford, visit www.shiponthebay.com. •

Featured on MTV Extreme Cribs, Home and Garden TV’s Extreme Homes, and the Travel Channel’s Extreme Vacation Homes.

The wheel house, completely intact, on the Benson Ford.

The third floor living room with fireplace. The Benson Ford, commissioned in 1924.

34 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 37: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

The Last Roof You’ll Ever Buy!

• LIFETIME metal warranty• 40 year paint warranty – 25 rich colors• Reduces energy costs• Adds resale value• The look of shingles that

lasts 3-4 times as long• Resists hail damage• 100% recyclable• 28-gauge, double-galvanized steel

All Metal Roofi ng is NOT AlikeAsk to see the metal AND paint fi nish

warranties (some metal roofi ng is only warranted for 10 years on edge rust &

20 years for the metal). Ask to see roofs installed at least 5 years ago. Ask about exposed fasteners

(they may rust in a few years).

Steel Shingle Roofi ng

Owned & operated by the Miller Family since 1964

800-589-4905 • 330-695-4905www.MillerCustomExteriors.com9238 County Rd 245, Fredericksburg OH 44627

Over 190 metal roofs installed since 2001Over 35 years’ experience in exterior metal installation

SEAMLESS STEEL SIDING & GUTTERS | SUNROOMS | LEAF PROTECTION | WINDOWS & DOORS

Serving Delaware since 1993 with investment and wealth management strategies for individuals and businesses.

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

(740) 363-75573769 Columbus Pike, Suite 130

(US 23 at Cheshire Rd)Delaware, Ohio

www.hallerwealthmanagement.com

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC

www.ngfit.com 419.295.7886270 Lexington Ave. • Mansfi eld

Children’s Martial Arts Instills:RESPECT • DISCIPLINE • FITNESS • CONFIDENCE

Learn from Master Instructor Chris Hershberger, 5th Degree Black Belt with 26 years of martial arts experience.

Country FabricsGifts & Housewares

Over 9,000 Boltsof Quilt & Craft Fabrics!

Moda • Hoffman • RJR Thimbleberries • Marcus

Homespun • Windham • AndoverMaywood • Red Rooster

Timeless Treasures • Benartex

Bulk Batting: 96”x 55 yds 3.3 oz. $ 95.00

120”x 55 yds 3.3 oz. $119.00

96”x 30 yds 6 oz. $ 95.00

“It’s Worth the Drive!”9-5 Mon. Tue. Wed. Fri.

9-7 Thursday | 9-3 Saturday

6142 Ganges 5 Points Rd.Shiloh, OH 44878

419-896-3785

35JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 38: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Andrews House

If you take it simply at face value you might look at the large, white mansion at the corner of Winter and Franklin Streets in downtown Delaware and think it’s just a lovely example of Greek revival architecture. Caught up in the beauty of the columns at the graceful entrances, you could miss the fact that, for nearly twenty years, this stately house has been home to programs and services that are vital to this community.

Constructed in the mid 1840’s by Hiram Griswold Andrews, the house eventually became Delaware’s first hospital in the early 1900’s.

By 1930 the hospital was in need of a larger facility, and the building was sold to Ohio Wesleyan University’s Phi Kappa

Psi fraternity. Finally, from 1960 until 1993, it was the home of the Tau Kappa Episilon fraternity.

During the fraternity occupancy the mansion fell into total disrepair. Heavily damaged, it was purchased by St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and slated for demolition to increase their parking area. A member of the congregation, Paul Nicely, suggested the house might be better used for the common good, and a decision was made to transform the building into a place of “hospitality, healing, and education.” Paul and his wife Anne were a driving force behind the fundraising effort to save and transform the building. Money came from individuals, foundations, churches and

corporations, and it was named “Andrews House” after the homes original owners.

Today Andrews House is a model nonprofit community services center. Programs are run almost exclusively by volunteers and, with the exception of the nutrition programs, they receive no government funding. The House is funded by individual and corporate philanthropy, grants, and the support of various kinds from 16 partner churches, just as the founders’ intended.

Two free community meals are provided each month, and free summer lunches for low-income school children are served at two elementary schools. A weekly free medical clinic is run by Grace Church of Powell, Ohio, as well as a

The house that love for a community built

36 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 39: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

monthly free legal advice clinic staffed by volunteers from the Delaware County Bar Association. In addition, Andrews House has free computer learning classes, free tax preparation for seniors during tax season, and it is Delaware County’s only provider of supervised visitation which allows non-custodial parents visitation with their children in a monitored environment.

The social service agencies that are housed at Andrews House pay below market rental fees, allowing more dollars

to be spent on programs and less on overhead. With so many assisting agencies in one place referrals are easier and costs can be shared.

The following are Andrews House Resident Partners:

■ Action for Children■ Alzheimer’s Association■ Big Brothers Big Sisters■ Connections (Volunteer Center)■ Grace Medical Clinic■ Legal Aid Society of Columbus

(Delaware Office)

The people at Andrews House are always looking for ways to maximize and use the talents of their literally hundreds of local volunteers. It is estimated that Andrews House activities will positively impact persons in the surrounding community over 6000 times each year.

“With our resident partners and our largely volunteer-based programs we are able to live out our mission of “People Strengthening People”, says Don Chenoweth, Ph.D., Executive Director of Andrews House. •

Top left: Salad is prepared for the Summer Food Service Program. Top right: Families enjoy meals through Angel Food Ministries. Bottom left: Supplies are gathered for Grace Medical Clinic. Bottom right: Volunteers are eager to assist with the Summer Food Service Program.

37JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 40: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Fourteen years ago, we threw caution to the wind and headed west with our four kids. Final destination: the great state of Montana. The whole extravaganza was born of my husband Bill having a business meeting in Whitefish, Montana. En route, we’d swing by Wisconsin to pick up son Dan from Boy Scout camp. And so a grand plan was hatched: two weeks and 5200 miles spread before us.

The mini-van wouldn’t cut it unless we left necessities — or two children — at home. Renting a cherry red 12-passenger van and nicknaming her Big Red, we removed the back bench seat leaving plenty of cargo space. Four big kids got three bench seats which naturally created some touchy sibling situations, if you know what I mean.

I gave each child a plastic milk crate for the trip: no duffle bags, no suitcases, just an 18-inch cube. If it didn’t fit in your crate, it stayed at home. The campgrounds were equipped with laundries so we found it easy to get by with just a few sets of clothing. The crates stacked perfectly in the back of Big Red, and we also packed sleeping bags, two coolers, covered plastic bins of food and supplies, a propane camp stove and a pillow for every head.

First stop, Chicago, then on to pick up Dan in Wisconsin: a lush, lovely state. From there we rolled through the Badlands of North Dakota, Wyoming’s prairies, and on to Montana. The American west is big, big, BIG. At the time of our trip North Dakota had no speed limit so my husband once pushed

it up to about 100 m.p.h. That thrilled our boys no end. Of course, with miles of barren landscape, it was no big deal. We saw many exits with no signs of civilization whatsoever, just a solitary road leading away from the interstate into the vast plains.

With the exception of a swanky resort in Whitefish, Montana, we stayed in KOA campgrounds in simple, rustic cabins. I was skeptical at first, but they were ideal while traveling with four squirrelly kids. We’d pull into Devil’s Tower, Wyoming or where-have-you and the kids would leap from Big Red and run for the pool to blow off steam while I fixed dinner. Camping, as one mom aptly put it, is like taking your housework to the woods. But I took the opportunity to teach the kids some life skills such as cooking, doing dishes outdoors, and quickly packing their belongings into Big Red each morning. They weren’t thrilled with this “summer school” but a mother knows her duty.

The most memorable campground was in Kennebec, South Dakota. The six of us slept on cots inside an enormous tipi, also home to some jumbo-sized spiders. I had to hold our daughter Katie’s hand that night until she fell asleep.

I loved lunchtime. We pulled salami, cheese, crackers, peanut butter and fruit from the cooler and ate at some spectacular picnic spots such as the beautiful Wind River or the majestic Tetons. But feeding the troops proved challenging at times. When a dust storm blew through our campground in Idaho Falls, Idaho, we abandoned plans to make dinner and ate out.

I thought it would be fun if the kids would journal during the trip so I bought each of them a notebook. I had a 25% percent return on that one; only 10-year-old Mark faithfully wrote in his journal. My favorite entry was his account of the events at the Little Bighorn battlefield in Montana in 1876. For anyone with an interest in history, this national monument is hauntingly fascinating. As a cool drizzle fell, we were mesmerized by the American Indian guide who walked us through the battle from an area overlooking the wind-swept battlefield. Mark wrote, “On the day of the battle, Custer made a bad mistake. He thought he could beat the Indians. But Sitting Bull had been collecting Indians for months and Sitting Bull won.”

I guess I went overboard with my exuberance for history. The kids got tired of me exclaiming, “Gee, imagine being a settler and making this trip in a covered wagon!” Poor kids.

We once met a family whose rule was that only children over age six went on family vacations. I thought this a little extreme until our Montana trip. Let’s just say our youngest family member, age 8, was tired and cranky for most of the two weeks. Then again, we kept a pace that might have worn out the most seasoned traveler.

I’m not sure what our kids remember most about the trip: riding “jammers” into Glacier National Park, throwing snowballs on the Continental Divide, getting up early to catch the eruption of Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park, or simply the tiresome hours in a van with their family.

Ohio to Montana and Back: A Family Road Trip Barb Haller

38 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 41: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Mark’s journal entry on August 14 sums up the trip: “Drove home! On our trip we experienced fights, being bored in the car for hours, swimming, whitewater rafting, hiking, getting 49 different license plates, beautiful scenery, big cities, cities of only 44 people, fishing, 9 KOAs, 1 hotel, a lodge, lots of McDonalds, rivers, mountains, wildlife, Devil’s Tower, Mt. Rushmore, rest areas, gas stations and lots and lots of fun.”

As we pushed home from Iowa on the last, long day, Ohio couldn’t come soon enough. Mile upon mile of corn shimmered in the August sun as four exhausted kids slept in Big Red, and mom and dad knew without a doubt that an unforgettable family memory had been made. •

Barb Haller writes from her home in Delaware, Ohio. She and her husband Bill enjoy quieter road trips these days. Read more of her writing at hallerbarb.blogspot.com. Header photo by Katie Haller.

Sutton Bank,

Where free checking is still free!

(with Rewards!)

Free Checking ~ Free Rewards Checking Disclosures available by calling 800‐422‐3641 or at www.suttonbank.com. Rewards details available on www.mysuttonrewards.com. 

  Ashland Mansfield 1804 Claremont Ave. 595 Lexington Ave. 1521 E. Main St. 863 N. Lexington-Springmill Rd.  

www.suttonbank.com ~ 800-422-3641 ~ Member FDIC Old-fashioned Innovation

39JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 42: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

The history of baseball in Ohio is as grand as the game itself. Most of that heritage is well-documented, from Cincinnati, where the 1869 Red Stockings were the first professional team, to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y. where many Ohioans, including the incomparable “Cy” Young, are enshrined.

Yet some of the state’s baseball history is not well-known. Yes, the Reds have won the World Series five times and the Indians have won it twice, though not since 1948. On seven occasions teams from Ohio’s institutions of higher learning have won NCAA championships. Two schools share those seven national championships; Ohio State won in 1966, leaving the other six NCAA titles for just one school. That’s the chapter of Ohio baseball history that is rather obscure.

“Marietta College Baseball: The Story Of The ‘Etta Express,” a new book published by The History Press, seeks to remedy that oversight. With no athletic scholarships this remarkable small college program just won the NCAA Division III World Series for the second straight year (the other titles were in 1981, ‘83, ‘86 and 2006).

This year’s team was ranked No. 1 in the nation nearly all season en route to a 48-8 record; ultimately becoming the first Division III repeat champion since 1979.

One of the highlights of Marietta’s rich history and the stories in this book is tied directly to the Heart of Ohio, specifically to the John Schaly family of Ashland.

John, the baseball coach at Ashland University, is the oldest son of the late Don Schaly. He built the baseball program at Marietta College and guided it for 40 years (1964-2003), winning the first three of the school’s national championships. When Marietta won its first national championship in 1981 it was John, an overachieving second baseman, who was named Most Valuable Player of the World Series.

Now owner of 937 career victories as a college coach, John is on track to soon join his dad in the 1,000-victory club; a first for a father-son combination in NCAA baseball history.

Don Schaly won 1,442 games (only 329 losses), is a member of the American

Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, and was named the Coach of the Century (Division III). But the incredible Schaly baseball tradition doesn’t stop there. John’s oldest son, Adam Schaly, was one of the finest pitchers in the state this year, posting an 11-0 record with an unbelievable 0.20 earned run average at Ashland High. The 18-year-old lefthander pitched two no-hitters, one of them a perfect game, to lead the Arrows to a 23-5 record and their first conference and district titles since 2007. An “A” student, he was named the Gatorade High School Player of the Year in Ohio and will play college ball at Stetson University in DeLand, Fla.

There’s another Schaly on the way, too. Adam’s brother Drew, only 10 years old, is

THE ‘ETTA EXPRESSAshland’s Link to Ohio’s Grandest Baseball

by Gary Caruso

John and Adam Schaly

40 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 43: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

a right-handed pitcher who throws at about the same speed Adam did at that age, according to their dad.

The Schaly baseball lineage is rich indeed. Don was a star catcher in Ellwood City, Pa., then at Marietta College. He embarked on a coaching career that led him back to his alma mater in southeastern Ohio just four years after he graduated from the private, liberal arts school that now has an enrollment of 1,400.

In 40 years as Marietta’s coach Schaly had 40 winning seasons. This year’s team produced Marietta’s 50th straight winning record, the last nine by Schaly’s successor, Brian Brewer. The baseball program long ago adopted its own unofficial nickname of ‘Etta Express for the way it regularly steamrolls the competition.

Schaly’s .814 winning percentage and career victory total both ranked first in NCAA history, regardless of division, when he retired. Today he’s still first in both departments among Division III coaches. He produced three major league success stories - former Pirates reliever Kent Tekulve, former left-handed starter Terry Mulholland, and current Colorado Rockies manager Jim Tracy.

Schaly was relentless in working to make Marietta College baseball national caliber, and he involved his family - wife Sue and four sons - in every possible way.

A typical family outing in the summer was a trip to Pioneer Park, since renamed Don Schaly Stadium, to pull weeds and pick up rocks. The ballpark became one of the finest in Ohio and hosted the Division III World Series for 12 years before the event outgrew the facility.

John and his brothers ( Joe, the baseball coach at Thiel College; Jim, a professional umpire; and Jeff, an assistant athletic director at Marietta) were involved in the baseball program in some way from the time they were youngsters. They started as “foul ball chasers” and

then graduated to batboy. When the next-in-line was old enough to be batboy, his brother would move to the manual scoreboard to hang numbers.

As the oldest, John was the first to get the opportunity to try out for the team, and he was the only one of the four to succeed as a player. That, however, was in serious question for a while.

After John’s freshman season (1979) when he didn’t play well with the JV team, he was nearly cut by his dad until an assistant coach persuaded him to give his son another chance.

“I threatened him with divorce if he cut my son!” said Sue Schaly. “But I don’t think that held any weight, because Joe Schaly came along a few years later and he cut Joe.”

John used everything he’d learned through the years of being around his dad and the Marietta team. That experience and the relentless work ethic instilled in him helped to overcome his deficiencies. He began to turn the corner as a player during his sophomore season. By the time he was a junior in 1981, he was a solid, consistent performer as the team’s leadoff hitter and base stealing threat. He batted .398 and stole 25 bases. Then in the World Series, John put it all together, hitting a tournament-best .667, including 4-for-4 in the championship game. He stole two bases and turned a game-ending double play.

Ashland University Coach, John Schaly

The late Don Schaly (right), coaching at Marietta, before a game against his son John (left), who was in his first coaching

position at Berry College in Rome, Georgia.

John Schaly as a player

at Marietta College

41JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 44: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

He was named second team all-America that year and first team as a senior. Not bad for someone that was nearly cut — by his father, no less!

“We grew up around baseball and were exposed to it at the college level at a young age,” John said. “We got to know the players and develop relationships with them. It’s in our genes, I guess. We all enjoyed the game; it’s been the same with Adam and Drew. Everything we do as a family (that includes wife Becky and daughter Nikki, a sophomore at Marietta) revolves around baseball including our summer vacations. One year we went to Myrtle Beach when Adam was in a tournament there. We’ve made a couple of trips to Cooperstown and made a father-son hobby out of collecting autographs. We’ve got about 50 Hall of Famers.”

Speaking of the Hall of Fame, one footnote to this saga is that Ban Johnson, founder of the American League, was a former Marietta College catcher who’s now enshrined at Cooperstown as a pioneer of the game. •

Gary Caruso is an Ohio native (East

Liverpool) and graduate of Marietta College. He lettered twice as a student

assistant baseball coach under Marietta’s legendary Don Schaly. Copies of his book,

“Marietta College Baseball: The Story of the ‘Etta Express,” signed by Kent Tekulve

or Jim Tracy, can be purchased at wonderdogpub.com, and unsigned copies are available at bookstores and websites.

Hal Maxfi eld, CCIM, SIORPresident / Managing Brokerhalmaxfi [email protected]

George DiezCommercial REALTOR®

georgediez@halmaxfi eld.com

George R. Sikora, DVMCommercial REALTOR®[email protected]

John P. Bryk, DVMCommercial REALTOR®[email protected]

www.halmaxfield.com

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

EXPERTSLocal, out-of-county,

out-of-state and out-of-country

properties

REAL ESTATE CO., INC.

380 N. Main St. • Mansfield, OH 44902 419-524-0010

INDIVIDUAL MEMBER

INDIVIDUAL MEMBER

Bucyrus Tourism & Visitors’ Bureau

BUCYRUSohio

Discover

Bucyrus is easy to fi nd — in the Heart of Ohio, along the Historic Lincoln Highway — and we make sure we are hard to forget by giving you an experience you will talk about for a long time. There are thirty fi ve attractions from which to choose and we will design a tour to your liking. Contact us today. We are anxious to help you Discover the Bucyrus Area!

PHONE US AND BOOK YOUR TOUR TODAY!

BEST “WURST” BIKE RIDESaturday, August 18, 2012

BUCYRUS TOURISM & VISITORS’ BUREAU301 South Sandusky Avenue | Bucyrus, Ohio 44820 | 866-562-0720email: [email protected] | www.bucyrus.org

BRATWURST FESTIVALAugust 16, 17, 18, 2012

SPEAKEASY PRODUCTIONSAugust 17 – ShowOctober 20 – Dinner/TheatreProduction available for groups of 35 and over.

42 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 45: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

www.tiffi nlittleboxshops.com | 888-298-7236 | info@tiffi nlittleboxshops.com

VISIT TIFFIN’S

American Civil War Museum of Ohio

Collecting, preserving & interpreting…

FrameworksShadowbox Framing & Gi� s

Seneca County MuseumWhere History Flows

Ti� n Art GuildWhere Local Artists Can Collaborate with Others

� e AngelusBeautiful Religious Artwork & Gi� ware

MLAD Graphic Designs ServicesGraphic Design & Large Format Printing

Surf 'N Turf A Fresh Meat and Seafood Market

Burns ElectricWe have it ALL!

Neumeister’s CandyIt’s as good as you remember.

Subtle VerseVisit www.subtleverse.com

Ti� n Glass Museum & Gi� Shoppe

History & Displays of Ti� n Glass

Crystal TraditionsWatch Glass Blowing & Crystal Hand Cutting

Ralph’s Joy of LivingCome experience the joy for yourself!

� readsSee the Latest Fashion Trends

� e Wax ShackUnique Handmade Candles

ralphsjol.com

Jazzin’ Ti� n & � e Ti� n Art Guild Show | September 8 • Ti� n Seneca Heritage Festival | September 15 – 17

Page 46: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

This is quite a year for our family. As of June 3, 2012, our son Jackson will have graduated from high school and set his sights squarely on The College of Wooster, where he will enter this autumn the Class of 2016. In fact, as I write this we are actually making final preparations for his graduation party. Of course, many families are walking through the same transitional phases as ours… but for us as a family, and for me as a father, our son graduating and leaving for college is personal. And it is from that place that I write these reflections. Hopefully you will find meaning and hope here, or at least a place to pause in your day and reflect on what and who are most important to you.

As we experience these momentous, one-of-a-kind days, many things run through my mind as a dad and (I’m sure) my son’s mind as a son and as a young man. Of mine, I am sure; of his, I can only speculate. I am certain Jackson is excited, ready, and I imagine he is facing it all with a mix of wonder, anticipation, and healthy trepidation. It’s a big step, a lot of big steps, and he (along with many others) will be independently navigating waters that heretofore he has only heard tell of or ridden along as a passenger. He is taking the helm of life in new ways. Well, he and God with him.

In the darkest night, after everyone else has long gone to bed, I find myself contemplating what I think many parents wonder:

such things as, “Have I done enough?”, “Have I taught my son well? (not just intellectually, but emotionally and spiritually)”, “Did I get the ‘core values’ conveyed as I hoped?”, “Did I help him not only with what to think and value but how to think and value (as he develops and deepens his own worldview)?”, “What did I miss?”, and “What have I taught that I didn’t intend to?” I think (at least I hope) it’s totally normal as one’s child enters adulthood and leaves for the next phase of life (college, trade, etc.), to feel like you need to get those particularly poignant lessons taught, have that culminating crucial conversation, and be sure you’ve imparted that “stuff ” that you wished you had known as a young adult.

There have been nights I have spent too long counting my sins and failures, many known to our son I’m sure, but some unknown. Such nights I lament over the potential and unnecessary pain I have brought upon my son. Some of the pieces of my brokenness unfortunately fall on him; I hope and pray that they do

not leave mortal wounds…But you know what? Life

happens. Facing these nights squarely is necessary to a degree.

Many of us have things we want to emulate from our own upbringing, things witnessed in our parents or grandparents — and things we vow to never repeat… while we often do the former, sadly, too often, we do the latter as well (that ‘thing’ or something akin to it).

But you know what else? Our brokenness, and even the pain it leaves in its wake, is not meaningless. It is not unredeemed. At least, it need not be. It is

through our suffering that we are forged and ‘being made perfect’. I don’t want to seek suffering nor do I want to inflict it, especially upon my son. But it happens. It happens to us, and by us. It’s all a part of the process, the journey. As author and poet Robert Bly once wrote (in Iron John: A Book About Men, 1990), “Where a man’s wound is, that is where his genius will be. Wherever the wound appears in our psyches… whether it stems from isolation, disability, or disease, that is precisely the place from which we will give our major gift to the community.” It is not automatic. It often takes work. But the fact that we are human and fallible is not a death sentence; and our mistakes, however tragic, need not be our final word.

And you know what else? I need to — and I do, daily — count not only the cost, the mistakes and sins I have humanly afflicted on my beloved son, but more so I count the blessings. And they are more numerous, more powerful, and I pray more definitive of a legacy that is passed to him and future generations beyond him.

We believe our son is able to meet any and all challenges he will soon face. He is an amazing young man; and as he has grown, it has been wonderful to watch him, pray with and for him, laugh with him, wrestle with him, and have our weekly father-son time on “fast food night.” Having always been a well-rounded person, as he enters adulthood I trust him to fully embrace his intellect and analytical abilities in the context of his social, honorable, respectful, morally-attuned, thoughtful, fun-loving soul. Whatever trepidation he may feel, that’s OK — in fact, it’s healthy.

Having the relationships we do, my wife, son, and I have learned about – and experienced — love, trust, forgiveness, compromise, and accountability. We

by Bradley K. Fox, Ph.D.

FAMILY LIFE

A Time of Transition: Embracing the Future

44 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 47: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

know better what it is to have someone sacrifice for us, believe in us, the impact of selfishness, and the power of grace and of moving on past arguments and frustrations. We have worried (at least mom and I have, and too much at times); we have all laughed much; we have sought to build a home that has been and will continue to be a safe and stable base, an anchor point he can turn to for example, guidance, and encouragement and from which this intelligent, strong, witty, sensitive, tender and caring young man can launch into the world and discover all that God has ahead for him.

The blessings of Jackson in our life and us in his are as numerous as the sands on all the shores and do not end with graduation. Once a parent, always a parent. Once a son, always a son. Not always are we children; but every adult is either a son or a daughter of a parent. When you invest your heart and life so long and so deeply into another human being, a part of you goes with them always and a part of them is retained in you. Relationships change as the journey matures, but St. Paul wrote in in the early part of the first century (in the First Letter to the Corinthians, chapter 13), “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

And so, as Jackson graduates, moves into his college years and beyond, and grows in his independence and manhood, I hope he knows deep in his heart that we have faith in him, that we will always see his future as one of hope and promise, and that he has now and always will our pride, our respect, and our love. •

Brad Fox, PhD is a licensed Psychologist at The Center for Individual & Family Services in Mansfield.

Based on the hit movie, this musical tells the story of Elle Woods, the most unorthodox student ever to attend Harvard Law School. This Chihuahua-friendly musical is fun for the whole family. Starring a talented local cast, directed by Michael Thomas with music direction by Deborah Logan.

S U M M E R M U S I C A L

SPONSORED BY: TICKETS 419.522.2726 mansfi eldtickets.com

138 Park Avenue West | Mansfield, OH 44902

Duane Getz, Inc.

� e Area’s Largest Collection of Quality, Solid Wood, Domestically Made Furniture Since 1963

1055 Spring Mill Road • Mansfi eld

� e Barn - Big, beautiful & unique

Bedrooms - Beatiful solid wood

Upholstery & Leather Specialists - With hand-tied coil springs

Dining Rooms - A feast for your eyes

Mattresses - For a good night’s rest

Game Rooms - Create the Ultimate Man Cave

www.springmillfurniturebarn.com

S M F BAmerica’s Most Fascinating Furniture Barn

Monday – Friday10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

419-747-6066

45JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 48: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

A visit to the Springmill Learning Center (SLC/Learning Center) will show you what the term “fast track” really means. Brad Strong, one of the “engines” behind this fascinating project, describes how the idea came about, “Superintendent Dan Freund had the idea to bring our outdoor education program from Richland Rural Life Center to this site. That facility had been rented and used by the city schools for forty-five years. That idea evolved into using this building to create a top of the line learning center that would have 6 unique components. When we sat down to discuss his idea the superintendent said, “I want you to think so far out of the box that we don’t even know where the box is!”, and we’ve done just that.”

When it is finished at the end of 2012 the SLC will be comprised of:

1. Science/Math center galleries2. 5th grade Science Immersion3. Outdoor Education4. Adventure Gallery, designed to

promote cooperation, teamwork and self-discovery, which includes a climbing wall, ropes course and bouldering wall.

5. History Center6. 4th grade math/algebra immersionThe former Springmill Elementary

building opened in 1961 as a K-5 building. In 2007, it was a 4-6th grade building and in 2010, it closed when the district realigned and those grades were moved to the Malabar building.

“The building had been empty for a year and used for storage for the whole system during that time, so it was completely full. We got the keys on June 1st, 2011, and our first job was to empty this building, then move the 45-year accumulation of outdoor ed “stuff ” from the Rural Life Center,” he laughed. “It looked impossible but we did it. Other than some broken windows and clogged drains it really wasn’t in bad shape.” The staff met all summer to plan and design.

Looking around at how far they have come it is obvious how much hard work has already taken place. With half the project completed and the rest in various stages of work, the Learning Center is already serving students on a nearly daily basis.

The unique ideas for this Learning Center have been teacher led. “There has been no top down instruction. We’ve worked with people in the area who are experts on this kind of development. Dr. Herb Broda, who has authored multiple books on outdoor education, Dr. Louis Flemming and Steve McKee, from the Gorman Nature Center, are just a few whose input has been important.

The classrooms are colorful and adaptable. In the chemistry lab the floor is covered with the table of elements; another has a wall of gears, levers and pulleys; still another has a lighted version of the world map on the ceiling. Everything is hands on. “We want the kids to touch stuff,” Brad said.

Dealing with contractors has sometimes proved to be challenging when the function is more important than form. “I have to explain that something has to be designed to absolutely do ‘this’. Sometimes the contractor doesn’t see why a particular item has to be so specific; our requirements on this project are probably way out of the norm.”

A big change at Mansfield City Schools has students climbing the walls!

The courtyard is designed to attract a variety of birds for students to watch and identify.

46 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 49: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Outdoors an area to attract birds includes a water feature and plantings to make the space appealing to many species. The surrounding woods, ending in a glacially scored ravine, are ideal for outdoor exploration and discovery. “The setting is a no brainer; perfect for our use,” said Brad.

Retrofitting the 50-plus year old building for this new purpose has

required a lot of hands. “We have used local contractors wherever possible. Seventy percent of the work is being done by businesses located in Mansfield, 91% are businesses based in Richland County. Local artists have done the paintings and murals,” Brad Strong said.

Springmill Learning Center is dedicated to adding value to the learning experience in the Mansfield

City Schools, but the long-term plan is for it to be a regional resource. “Our five-year goal is to be totally self-sufficient through the revenues raised by renting days to other school systems,” Brad explained.

This project, the brainchild of Superintendent Dan Freund, is being headed up by three city school teachers in this first stage of development. Brad Strong, Janet Ellsworth and Fred Boll are the coordinating staff, and Brad explained, “We all have different skill sets and duties, but we are all equals here.” They are assisted in the daily operations by Aaliya Lewis, who is the building-wide Paraprofessional, and Bruce Brewer, Head Custodian.

Brad summed up the project this way, “I believe we are on the cutting edge of development, and this is what schools will look like in 2020 and 2030. We want it to be Kosi on steroids, but with an educational twist. It’s exciting to see it come together, and it will be completely finished when we come back from Christmas break this year!” •

Springmill Learning Center1200 Nestor Drive429.525.6348 extension #4334Look for them on Facebook

TRAINING & EDUCATION

Brad Strong in the chemistry lab, a colorful, flexible space that can be reconfigured as needed.

The surrounding grounds inspire exploration.

Lights in the ceiling world map are individually controlled for instructional use.

Students will learn about the human body from the inside out.

47JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 50: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

From the time she was ten years old Sheila Hall lived across the street from Fred Larson. In the summer it was her job to pull the weeds that grew up between the slate slabs forming the sidewalk in front of her house in Wadsworth, Ohio.

“I still remember the first time I saw Fred. He came out of his house and crossed to the sidewalk where I was pulling weeds. He stepped right on my hand and just kept walking. I thought to myself, ‘what a jerk!’ as he just kept walking without saying a word,” Sheila remembered.

All through her teen years Fred was like a big brother. “He was always at our house, and he always seemed to know when my mother was fixing something he liked for dinner.” The teen years passed, and Sheila and Fred both went to Ohio University; Sheila’s boyfriend at the time

also attended O.U. “Fred and my boyfriend were in the same fraternity, and my boyfriend had a habit of pulling dumb stunts. One evening I got a call from Fred telling me about my boyfriend’s latest screw up; it was the final straw for me and I broke up with the boy. Fred’s mother always said she knew he couldn’t wait to make that call. We were a couple after that; we have two wonderful children and were married forty eight years.” Fred and Sheila Larson are the parents of Nils, who lives in Lexington, and Kristen, who lives in Sacramento, California.

In 2011, Fred Larson faced a diagnosis of leukemia the way he had faced every challenge… head on. “The doctor said there were two ways to approach this; one is a very aggressive chemotherapy regimen and the other… Fred stopped her

there, saying, ‘You don’t have to go any farther. I want to hit this with the aggressive therapy,’” Sheila remembers. “Fred was a man who never gave up, and I knew he would fight to beat this.”

During his treatment at Cleveland Clinic (the Clinic) Fred charted everything and stayed on top of his treatment. He understood he wasn’t making progress the way he should and he asked the doctor to explain. “She said she didn’t know, and Fred said, ‘We don’t know what we don’t know, do we?’ The doctor looked puzzled and Fred said, ‘Do you know who said that? Donald Rumsfeld.’ From then on it was his catch phrase to his team of doctors,” Sheila said.

By December of 2011, the family prepared to gather for Christmas and Fred’s birthday (he was born on Christmas Day). On the 17th the couple returned to Cleveland Clinic for a transfusion. The 19th of December found him attending a State Headquarters meeting in Columbus; on December 20th Fred and Sheila received the news that his leukemia was advancing.

“We met with Fred’s doctor at the Clinic, and she told him he had a decision to make. If the chemo was to resume they had to do it very quickly; in fact, she didn’t want him to leave the Clinic. Fred told her the family was coming in and he wanted to discuss his options with his family; we headed home. The following day our whole family sat around the kitchen table, ready to discuss treatment options. I didn’t expect what Fred said: ‘I’ve made a decision, and I want to hear what each of you thinks about it. I have decided to accept palliative care instead of resuming the chemotherapy. There is no guarantee the treatment will buy me any time; in fact, it could kill me. I want this time with all of you. Now tell me

everyday

The Last Gift

48 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 51: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

what you think.’ Very quietly each of the family members expressed their thoughts, and every one of them agreed with Fred’s decision,” Sheila said.

No one at the table knew what was going on behind the scenes at the home of their neighbors, John and Marsha Triska:

“Fred told us he would have to shorten his “bucket list” due to the fact that he needed to stay close to home to receive care. We asked what was on that bucket list, and he said to read Don Rumsfeld’s book, Known and Unknown. Sheila got the book for him for Christmas, but on Christmas Eve day he woke with double vision, totally unable to read. We ordered the book on CD and talked about how wonderful it would be if Donald Rumsfeld would call Fred. Everyone in our family decided we had to try to make it happen. We called the Department of Defense, Fox News, The Secret Service…any angle we could think of to get it done. Not wanting to give up I even emailed a man who’d bought my husband’s boat trailer. It was a

long shot, but I knew he followed politics because he kept sending us political emails. Accepting the challenge to reach Rumsfeld, he got a phone number off a website that had to do with the Department of Defense and he called it. The woman who answered just happened to be the daughter of one of Rumsfeld’s best friends; he had attended her wedding. She had his cell number, and everything unfolded from there. Every one of us believes it was divine intervention.”

Early on the morning of December 29th Sheila got a call telling her that the call from Rumsfeld might take place that very day. “I was determined to stick by that phone, but I eventually had to make a dash to pick up some prescriptions. Just as I came through the front door the phone rang and my daughter Kristen asked if she should get it, which she did. I went to the bedroom to check on Fred and found him sleeping.”

“Donald Rumsfeld asked for Mrs. Larson, and Kristen acknowledged that

her mother was there. ‘This is her daughter, Kristen,’ she said. As she walked the phone to her mother Kristen said to Mr. Rumsfeld, ‘I think I know who this is. I recognize your voice.’ Rumsfield queried, ‘Who do you think this is?’ to which Kristen replied, ‘Are you Rummy?’ Donald Rumsfeld laughed and asked how she recognized his voice. ‘My dad and I were listening to your book on CD today; I was listening to your voice this morning.’ I just couldn’t get over the fact that my daughter, standing in our kitchen, was talking to Donald Rumsfeld and calling him Rummy!”

Sheila talked briefly with Rumsfeld. “He said he understood Fred had been a C-130 pilot, and then asked me to tell him about all the planes Fred had flown. I was afraid my mind would go blank, but I was able to remember,” Sheila chuckled.

Finally, Sheila handed the phone back to Kristen while she went into the bedroom to prepare Fred for the call. “I said, ‘Fred, you’ve got to wake up and talk to someone on the phone.’ He said he didn’t want to talk to anyone right now, but I pressed on with, ‘you’ll want to talk to this one, it will make you happy.’ ‘Who is it?’ Fred askd. ‘I can’t tell you, it’s a surprise.’ But he asked again and I told him it was Donald Rumsfeld. Fred started to sob, and I was afraid he wouldn’t have the strength to pull himself together to take the call. I should have known better, he composed himself, and we gave him the telephone,” Sheila said quietly.

“We only heard the one side of the conversation and I don’t know everything that was said, but I know Rumsfeld thanked Fred for his service to the country, and I heard Fred thank him for his service, too. The call lasted about fifteen minutes, and I know it meant everything to my husband,” Sheila said.

The family was overwhelmed by Rumsfeld’s gesture. “He is a compassionate person; for him to take the time to do this over the holiday’s was amazing,” Sheila said.

Brigadier General Fred N. Larson died on Sunday, January 1, 2011. He is admired and remembered as the “Father of the 179th” at Mansfield Lahm Airport, where he was commander from 1986 to 1995. Active in the community, dedicated to his country, Fred became Director

Fred met President George H.W. Bush shortly before his election in 1988 when he landed in Mansfield for a speaking engagement in Ashland.

49JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 52: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

of Operations, Headquarters Ohio Air National Guard, and retired in 1998. In 2005, Fred “put on his BRAC shoes” and went to Washington; he was instrumental in saving the base when it was marked for closure.

“Long before my husband became ill we talked of where we wanted to be buried. We have a plot in Wadsworth where my parents are, but Fred had a different plan. He wanted to be in the Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman. I told him I wanted the two of us to be together; and so, being the wise man he was he said, ‘Well, cremate me and divide the ashes. Put half in the Western Reserve National Cemetery and half in Wadsworth,’ and that’s exactly what I did,” Sheila said. She added with a grin, “Fred asked which half would go where, and I told him it was his brains that got him ahead in his career, so I guess I’d better take the other half to Wadsworth.” •

MANSFIELD OFFICE | 419 525-4600TOLL FREE | 800 525-2021

Corner of Mulberry and Third St. in Mans� eld

Real Estate Closings with Friendly Professional Service

We do closings anytimeand anywhere.

WOOSTER OFFICE | 800 219-4183GALION OFFICE | 800 468-4811

SANDUSKY OFFICE | 888 309-4811

www.southerntitleofmans� eldohio.com

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

Email your story to: [email protected]

or send to: Heart of Ohio magazine

P.O. Box 1406 Mansfield, Ohio 44901

50 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 53: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

“I don’t consider myself an author, but they say everyone has a book in them and I have knowledge to share,” Julius Rhodes said. His book, Brand: You, takes the concept of branding to a personal level.

In the book’s foreword, Tom Wimer, founder and President of KnowledgeBank, says, “In life, as in business, effective branding removes the variability of perception. Those individuals or groups that have consciously embraced the concept of branding realize the same result. There is power in the brand!

In this, his first book, Julius Rhodes discusses the four principals of establishing your brand:

Part I: Principles of Brand EstablishmentPart II: Promoting Your BrandPart III: Challenges to Your BrandPart IV: Change.

The style is conversational, the information meaty and usable. His chapters on values, attitudes and trust are informative and thought provoking.

Brand: You is dedicated to instructing three segments of the population: those without a job, those with a job they see ending, and students graduating college and entering the workforce. In truth, this book is a must read for everyone who wants to grow to their best potential. Whether you are in the work force or a dedicated volunteer, a stay at home parent or a retiree, Brand: You is an informative action plan for day-to-day success in life.

Julius Rhodes describes himself as a man driven by the desire to make his parents proud of him. The youngest of four kids, his love of and belief in a strong family is evidenced by his 22 year marriage to wife, Linda (Givand) Rhodes and his two children, Jerome (19) and Lauren (17).

Julius believes you simply can’t phone it in; being a good parent requires being present in your loved ones lives. “Being at your children’s sports events, field trips, plays and activities is very important; I’ve

missed very few of those things as our children have grown up. Being surrounded by loving parents, aunts, uncles and friends has helped me move forward today, and I want my children to have that same advantage,” Julius said.

He understands that same devotion is important in a good marriage. “Once, I even represented my wife at one of her company functions when she couldn’t attend. I wore a badge that said, “Hi, I’m Linda Rhode’s husband, Julius”, and it got a lot of laughs. Wife, Linda, is the daughter of Johnny and Lillie Givand of Mansfield.

Mr. Rhodes received his bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University in Personnel Administration, and he has a Master’s degree from Loyola University in Human Resources and Industrial Relations. He has completed his coursework toward a Ph.D. in ethics at Loyola, and is now working on a second book detailing his parent’s impact on his parenting and being a role model. His first book, Brand:You, is now in its second printing which is now 101 pages and 5

chapters; the 5th being on presentation skills ( face-to-face and electronic).

In 1994, he began the mpr group, a broad based human resources consulting firm providing customized training, consulting, and project management services. Through his work at mpr group he has facilitated numerous human resources related activities in manufacturing, health care, consumer products and electronics, information technology, educational, and the cultural arts for public and private firms in the profit and not-for-profit sectors.

“I started my business as a way to be able to do a full range of things within the field of Human Resources, which is where my education and experience has been. It has been a good balance for my professional and personal aspirations,” Julius said.

On June 22nd, Julius Rhodes presented his seminar, “Shake it off and Step Up”, at North Central State College-Urban Center in downtown Mansfield. His message on personal accountability, discipline, leadership, and actions leading to success prompted one audience member to remark, “I’ve never felt so much positive energy from a speaker in my life.” •

Julius E. Rhodes, MSHRIR, SPHRFor information on the mpr group, or

Brand: You, visit www.mprgroup.info..

SELF-IMPROVEMENT

BRAND: YOU Julius Rhodes

51JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 54: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Broken Rocks Cafe & Bakery123 E Liberty St, Wooster, 330.263.2949www.brokenrockscafe.comM-Th 9-9, F-Sa 9-10

B  L  D TO     

Casual dining with upscale appeal. Hand crafted pasta, pizza, soup, salad, sandwiches, steaks and dessert. Artisan breads baked daily. Wine list and full bar. Open for breakfast lunch and dinner. Gift cetificates available $$

Bromfield’s at Mohican State Park Lodge1098 CR 3006, Perrysville, 419.938.5411www.mohicanstateparklodge.comM-Su Breakfast 8-10:30, Lunch 11-2, Dinner 5-8

B  L  D TO     

Open Daily. While overlooking gorgeous views of Pleasant Hill Lake, dine on one of our locally farm-raised beef dishes including our delicious signature half-pound burger or one of our outstanding pasta dishes. Full-service lounge, banquet spaces and catering available. $$

Brown Derby Roadhouse3985 Park Ave W, Ontario, 419.529.2959www.brownderbyontario.comM-Th 4-10:30, F 3-11:30, Sa 12-11:30, Su 11:30-9

D TO      

The one true Roadhouse. A relaxed and fun atmosphere. We hand select and cut our steaks fresh daily. Our USDA Prime and Choice steaks are cooked western style over open hardwood flames. St. Louis BBQ ribs, great seafood selection, over the top sides, draft & bottle beer, specialty drinks & wine. $$

The Alcove Restaurant & Lounge116 S Main St, Mt Vernon, 740.392.3076www.alcoverestaurant.comDining M-Th 11:30-9, F-Sa 11:30-9:30 Lounge 11:30-10, F-Sa 11:30-11

L  D TO    

The Alcove first opened in December 1911, now 100 years later, we are proud to say we are still the place to come for quality food & service. Daily lunch & dinner specials, our famous Alcove prime rib on Friday and Saturday, intimate cocktail lounge, private banquet rooms, catering services. $$

Athens Greek Restaurants41 N Main St, Mansfield, 419.524.5620M-Sa 11-841 S Lexington-Springmill Rd, OntarioM-Sa 11-9

L  D TO   

Best gyros outside New York. Closed Sundays & major holidays. $

reStaurantS eaterieS&B Breakfast

Br Brunch

L Lunch

D Dinner

TO Takeout

GG Grab ‘n’ Go

Outdoor Seating

Family-Friendly

Reservations

Happy Hour

Wheelchair Accessible

Find us on Facebook

Average dinner entrée price

$ $10 or less $$ $11-$20 $$$ $21-$30 $$$$ $31 or more

Heart of Ohio is proud to feature some of Ohio’s great local eateries. Use the key below to find the perfect place to go for your night out or lunch on the go.

Cakes, Cookies, Teas & more…1. Choose the treat2. Send us your gift list3. Tell us when to ship

837 Lexington Ave. Mansfield419.525.2868

Send a tasty message

to clients or friends!

www.eatmorbundt.com

• Special Occasions

• Thank You Gifts

• Congratulations

• Graduations

52 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 55: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Carmie’s Grill & Bar2460 S. SR 231, Tiffin, 419.448.7699www.tiffincamdenfalls.comM-Sa 11-10, Su 11-9, Bar F-Sa til 12am

L  D TO      

Family atmosphere & we’re grillin’ and chillin’. $

City Grille & Bar37 E 4th St, Mansfield, 419.709.9199T-Th 11-10, F 11-11, Sa 4-11, Closed 2-4 Bar T-Th til 11, F-Sa til 1am

L  D TO     

American cuisine. Family-friendly, casual full-service restaurant & bar. $

Coolridge Golf Course Diner591 Vonhoff Blvd, Mansfield, 419.521.5159M-Sa 6-7, Su 6-2

B  L  D TO GG    

Home-cooked meals, friendly atmosphere. Prime Rib Friday 4-7. Daily Specials. $

Der Dutchman720 St Rt 97 W, Bellville, 419.886.7070www.derdutchman.comM-Sa 7-8, Closed Sunday

B  Br L  D TO     

Amish kitchen cooking. Formerly Troyer’s Dutch Heritage. $

Doc’s Deli424 Glessner Ave, Mansfield, 419.521.5159www.docsdelimansfield.comM-F 10:30-6, Sa 10:30-3

L  D TO GG    

“The Cure for the Common Sandwich” Casual Catering, Business Delivery $

Ed Pickens’ Café on Main28 N Main St, Mansfield, 419.522.7699www.cafeonmain.netM-F 8-3

Br L  TO   

We can provide a complete range of services for groups of 20 to 600. Continental breakfasts to full service wedding receptions, we can fulfill all your needs for a seamless event. Our soups, salads, entrees, sides, and desserts are all made at our facility in downtown Mansfield. Visit www.cafeonmain.net. $

Empress Express1041 Park Ave W, Mansfield, 419.524.4200M-Sa 11-9

L  D TO   

Our food is fresh, made to order. Limited delivery. $

The Kenyon Inn & Restaurant100 W Wiggin St, Gambier, 740.427.2202www.kenyoninn.comBreakfast M-F 7-9:30, Sa 8-10 Brunch Su 9-2, Lunch M-Sa 11-2 Dinner Su-Th 5-8:30, F-Sa 5-9

B  Br L  D TO      

A charming atmosphere awaits you at The Kenyon Inn on the campus of Kenyon College. We offer delicious food, fine wine and tantalizing desserts. Live music in the summer during our Party on the Patio series and introducing our newly enlarged and renovated private room for special occasions and corporate needs. $$

The Mill Street Bistro Bar21 Mill St, Norwalk, 419.663.3663www.millstreetbistrobar.com

D      

Our own farm-raised elk, buffalo and beef. And local produce. $$

Oak Park Tavern2919 St Rt 430 E, Mansfield, 419.589.2637www.oakparktavern.comTu-F 11-10, Sa 3-10, Su 3-9

L  D TO     

Enjoy fine dining in a casual atmosphere. $$

Ontario Event Center3985 Park Ave W, Ontario, 419.529.2959www.ontarioeventcenter.com

B  Br L  D TO 

Full service banquet and catering facility. Can accommodate 25-1500 off site and 300 on site. Breakfast, lunch, dinner menu or custom menu per your request. Located at the back of the Brown Derby Roadhouse corner of Rt 314 and Rt 309 (Park Ave West). Voted “Best Banquet Facility” again! See display ad for more. $$

• Enjoy Lunch or Dinner on the outdoor deck overlooking the beautiful golf course!

• Weddings and Receptions and Meeting rooms available.

• Call to book your golf outing.

The Sand Wedge Grill

Full Service Restaurant & Bar

at

Call 419-886-7090 for reservations

Mon – Thu • 11am – 8pmFri & Sat • 11am – 9pm

Sun • 11am – 7pm

900 Comfort Plaza Drive | Bellville

Open Year Round

www.deerridgegc.com

53JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 56: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

TJ’s Restaurant359 W Liberty St, Wooster, 330.264.6263www.tjsrestaurants.comM-F 11-9:30, Sa 4:30-9:30

L  D TO      

Steaks, seafood, chicken, pasta, daily specials in a relaxed atmosphere. $$

V&M Restaurant104 Main St, Bellville, 419.886.3569www.vandmrestaurant.com

B  L  D TO  

What’s the best thing about small town Bellville? Many think it’s the V&M Restaurant. Breakfast, lunch, dinner – The meals are home cooked with consistent quality that draws people from near and far. Great food at pleasant prices, served with a smile. $

Virginia BBQ625 Lexington Ave, Mansfield, 419.522.7427www.virginiabbq.comM-Sa 11-8, Su 12-7

L  D TO   

Genuine Southern BBQ and fresh side items. Catering available. $

Shugar Freaks Bakery & Sandwich Shop189 Marion Ave, Mansfield, 419.709.6220M-Fri 9:30-3:30

L  TO GG    

Sweet Treats and Good Eats $

Slick’z Drive-In228 Lexington Ave, Mansfield, 419.522.FOODwww.slickz.comM-Sa 7-7, Su 7-3

L  D TO     

Our meals are made to order from the freshest ingredients. Nothing is “pre-fab”, from the hand formed specialty burgerz to the fresh cut french fries. Serving the area’s best breakfast (all day, every day), lunch (soupz, saladz, sandwiches) and dinner (each includes two sides)!! Cruise in-Chill Out at Slick’z. $

Southside Diner620 S Main St, Mt Vernon, 740.392.1282M-Sa 5:45-8, Su 7-3

B  L  D TO   

Enjoy 50s / 60s atmosphere. Breakfast served all day! Homemade pies. $

Spearman’s Restaurant26155 Coshocton Rd, Millwood, 740.599.7617M-Sa 7-7:45 Su 8-7:45

B  L  D TO   

Daily Breakfast, lunch, dinner specials over 60 years! Homemade pies. $

Steve’s Dakota Grill3101 Park Ave W, Ontario, 419.529.9064www.stevesdakotagrill.comM-Th 4-10, F 4-11, Sa 12-11, Su 11-8

L  D TO     

Casual, relaxed atmosphere. Steaks cut fresh daily, USDA prime choice steaks hand selected, aged to perfection, flame-broiled, seasoned with Steve’s special blend. Rotisserie roasted prime rib, fresh seafood, pasta & chicken dishes. Great sandwiches. Kids’ menu. Wine & beer selections from around the world. Voted “Best Prime Rib” again. $$

• Prime Rib• Steak• BBQ Ribs

• Burgers• Wings• Seafood

Fresh, never frozen. Always homemade.

844 St. Rt. 97 West, Bellville, OH419.886.2159

Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun | 11am - 10pmFri & Sat | 11am - 11pm

CLOSED MONDAY

Voted best BBQ of Mid-Ohio 2010 & 2011

419-529-29593985 Park Ave. West - OntarioEmail: [email protected]

For more information visit our websitewww.ontarioeventcenter.com

Catering to Your Taste!

Located At The Brown Derby Road House

Our Professional Staff will create the Perfect Event!Complete Catering and Banquet Service from 25 to 1,500 guests.

Wedding Receptions Rehearsal Parties Bridal Showers Creative Customized Menus On & Off Premise Catering Special Events Thanks for Voting us the Best Again!

Your Every Event Caterer

54 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 57: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Protect Your Family with Affordable Health Coverage.

• Self Employed & Independent Contractors• Individuals without Group Coverage• COBRA Alternative• Early Retirees and Seniors• Small Business

This coverage is Ideal for:

Call Brandy, your local agent for aFREE quote or personal consultation!

BRANDY WIRICKAuthorized Agent

Local: 419-528-2567 Toll-free: 866-297-4049www.BrandyWirick-insurance.com

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Community Insurance Company. Independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ®ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

How lowcan you go?

Low Rate • Fast Approval • Low Payment • Shorter Term Options

Disclosures are available by calling the telephone number listed in this ad for details about credit costs and terms.

Home Loans • Refinance

Disclosures are available by calling the telephone number listed in this ad for details about credit costs and terms.

Call Today! 419.525.8700 Member FDIC EQUAL HOUSING

LENDER

Be a part of the next

To be featured in this section:

[email protected]

419.961.7464419.524.2127

&ResTauRanTs eaTeRies

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

scan this QR code with your smartphone

ONE YEAR(Now 6 issues)

$15

Page 58: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

M

31 East Fourth Street • Mansfi eld, OH 44902419.522.2004 P • 419.522.2424 F • 419.545.3417 M

www.mytownpartners.com

We are now hiring!

Oak Hill Cottagec. 1847 Mansion in the Gothic Style

www.oakhillcottage.orgCall 419 524 1765 for

special group tour reservations.

Open Sundays 2pm to 5pm

Adults $5, Children 12 & under $1Group and “basement to attic”tours arranged by reservation.

Royalwood Ltd.Supplies for beading, basket & seat weaving

Irish Waxed Linen Thread Mizuhiki & Embellishment Cords Beads, Threads & Wires Tools & Kits Books & Patterns And much, much more…

517 Woodville Rd.Mansfi eld, Ohio 44907

800-526-1630www.RoyalwoodLtd.comGIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

OVER 200 USED VEHICLES

mmgauto.com

1493 Park Ave. West | Mansfi eld419.529.4000 | 800.762.8824

Deadlines freaking you out?Relax! Let us handle the details.

DESIGN PRINTING COPYING & FINISHING MAILINGWEB DESIGN PROMOTIONAL ITEMS EXPO DISPLAYS

p r i n t i n g & p u b l i s h i n g

419.524.6277www.sungraphicsinc.com

56 JULY/AUG 2012

www.hea

rtofohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 59: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

For most of us, the big worry about retirement planning is building a sufficient nest egg. But according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, millions of Americans have Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and Keoghs totaling $4.15 trillion, an historic high in 20071. It may be that the trickier part of an IRA isn’t putting money into it — but taking money out.

Most people probably know the basic rules of withdrawing from a traditional IRA. They know they have to begin taking distributions at age 70 ½. They know IRAs are taxed as ordinary income at the state and federal level. And generally they know there’s a penalty if they take distributions too early or not in sufficient amounts. A lot can go right when a distribution is handled properly. But plenty can also go wrong when it’s not.

There are a number of moving parts that can create not only confusion but opportunities for mistakes. A case in point: While you can withdraw as much as you like after age 59 ½, failure to take the required minimum distribution (RMD) after the IRA participant turns 70½ has huge consequences — a 50% tax penalty on the amount that should have been withdrawn. (The RMD is calculated by dividing the adjusted account balance as of Dec. 31 of the previous year by the appropriate life expectancy factor based on the IRS’ Uniform Lifetime Expectancy Table.) The basic rule is to take no longer than April 1 of the year following that in which you turn 70 ½.”

Even then, consider someone who turned 70 in 2009 and 70 ½ in 2010. They would be required to take a distribution no later than April 1 of 2011 based on the account’s value ending Dec. 31, 2009. But this year they also must take a second

distribution for the amount as of Dec. 31, 2010. So if you wait till April 1, typically you are required to take two distributions, which, generally speaking, could push you into a higher tax bracket.

Three common pitfalls that your financial planner can help you avoid through good, sound distribution planning include the following:

■ Get the beneficiary right. Without a designated beneficiary, such as an individual, trust or charity, all money in an IRA must be distributed to the estate. If your beneficiary is a trust, be sure it qualifies under IRS regulations. Among them: The trust must be valid in the state in which the IRA participant resides. The beneficiary must be “identifiable” in the language of the trust. The trust must be irrevocable no later than the death of the participant. In addition, you may wish to discuss the various distribution options available with your intended beneficiaries.

■ Avoid the penalty for early distributions. Withdrawals taken before age 59 ½ typically come with a 10% IRS penalty. But there are some noteworthy penalty-free exceptions with income taxes due, including distributions for higher

education expenses (tuition, books, supplies, special needs services) for the IRA holder, spouse, child or grandchild; qualified medical expenses; $10,000 toward an IRA holder’s first-time home purchase; “Substantially Equal Periodic Payments,” (72t) in which payments are spread out over 5 years or age 59 ½ whichever is longer based on your projected life expectancy; and health insurance premiums in the event of unemployment.

■ Anticipate tax consequences. Generally, there’s no estate tax due when the death of the first spouse occurs, as long as the other spouse is noted as the beneficiary. A younger spouse will often be able to defer taking a distribution, and its resulting income taxes, by rolling over the plan. Additionally, non-spouse beneficiaries, including unmarried domestic partners, can now take minimum required distributions based on their life expectancy, rather than having to take distributions within five years or as a lump-sum payout. This saves tremendously on tax consequences, and allows the assets the potential to continue to grow.

1 March 2010, Employee Benefit Research Institute

MONEY MATTERS

Demystifying IRA Distributionsby Charles P. Hahn, CFP® in conjunction with Lincoln Financial Advisors/Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors,a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor

TEAMRick & Karen RIEGEL

Rick Riegel“SELL”: (419) [email protected]

Karen Riegel, SRES®

“SELL”: (419) [email protected]

where caring is key

1180 Lexington Avenue • Mansfield • Ohio • 44907

57JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 60: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Nancy Mule, Mikelann McCarty, Ryan McCarty and

Brendan McCarty took Heart of Ohio magazine with

them when they visited Shepherdstown, West Virginia.

Give us your best shot!Whether you’re vacationing, exploring or just relaxing with a cup of coffee, we would love to see you enjoying your copy of Heart of Ohio magazine. Submit your photo, and you just might see yourself in a future issue!

Send your photo to: [email protected]

Bill Vickers took Heart of Ohio magazine with him when he visited Atlantic City, Wyoming.

“The Parsell 5” took Heart of Ohio to the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway in Nelsonville, Ohio.

MAY / JUNE 2012

Marie’s Frame ShopYou name it, we frame it.1444 Lexington Ave., Mans� eld419-756-6040www.mariesframeshop.comM, � 10am-7pm, T, W, F 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-5pm

We provide custom framing of pictures, keepsakes, shadowboxes & cross-stitches.Gift Certi� cates Available

Crafty ClutterClutter makes a house a home305 E. Main St., [email protected] 10am-6pm, Sun in Dec. 10am-6pm

Gift Certi� cates AvailableCandles & home decorating accessories!

Buckeye Bookkeeping SolutionsSmall Business Management & Accounting9944 Mount Gilead Rd., Fredericktown740-398-5726www.smallbusinessaccountingservice.net

Call to schedule your appointment.“I have over 25 years in small business management and accounting services. Call for a FREE CONSULTATION !” – Sherry Wilson

� e Evergreen CompanyWhere the Unusual is O� ered117 Harding Way E., Galion 419-468-4472www.myevergreencompany.comMon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12-4pm

Since 1993, o� ering unique home decor, � ne gifts, jewelry, WoodWick candles, Willowtree, pottery, dishware, Christmas year round, Gift Certi� cates

Angelwoods Hideaway B&BBetween Mohican, Malabar & Mans� eld1983 Pleasant Valley Rd., Lucas 419.892.2929www.ohio-bed-breakfast.com

• Gift Certifi cates AvaiableWedding & Reception, Rehearsal Dinner & Showers, Reunions, Business Training, Scrapbook/Craft Weekends, Retreats

Scotty’s Diamond Power•VacLess Dust – Call Us419-883-3321800-360-0786www.scottysairductcleaning.com

Family Owned & OperatedFree Estimates, Furnace & Airduct Cleaning, Dryer Vents, Chimneys

Advertise in

Contact our sales department:[email protected]

419.524.2127

Are you reaching your target market?

Page 61: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

E M P O R I U M JULY / AUGUST 2012

Crafty ClutterClutter makes a house a home305 E. Main St., [email protected] 10am-6pm, Sun in Dec. 10am-6pm

Gift Certi� cates AvailableCandles & home decorating accessories!

Buckeye Bookkeeping SolutionsSmall Business Management & Accounting9944 Mount Gilead Rd., Fredericktown740-398-5726www.smallbusinessaccountingservice.net

Call to schedule your appointment.“I have over 25 years in small business management and accounting services. Call for a FREE CONSULTATION !” – Sherry Wilson

Crowe’s ShoesArea leader in � tting feet properly for 75 years56 N. Main St., Mans� eld419-522-2431 or 419-522-1005Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm, Fri ’til 6pm

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

John’s Hobby Shop, Inc.On the Square – Established 197715 N. Main St., Mans� eld419-526-4426www.johnshobbyshopohio.comMon-Sat 10am-5pm, Fri ’til 6:30pm

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

JOHN'SHOBBYSHOP

Planktown Country Market, LLC1921 Free Rd., Shiloh 419-896-3525Mon-� u 8am-5pm, Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8am-5pm, Closed Sunday

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

Angelwoods Hideaway B&BBetween Mohican, Malabar & Mans� eld1983 Pleasant Valley Rd., Lucas 419.892.2929www.ohio-bed-breakfast.com

• Gift Certifi cates AvaiableWedding & Reception, Rehearsal Dinner & Showers, Reunions, Business Training, Scrapbook/Craft Weekends, Retreats

Tara,s Floral ExpressionsOn the Creative Edge1235 Park Ave. W., Mans� eld419-529-0600www.taras� oral.comMon-Fri 8:30am-5:30pm, Sat 8:30am-1pm

Complete Floral Services • Fresh Flowers • Fruit & Gourmet Baskets • Plants & Planters • Gift Certifi cates Available

TARA’SFLORAL

EXPRESSIONS

Bridal & Formal Wear by B. LLCYour Special Day is our Specialty564 N. Lexington-Springmill Rd., Mans� eld419-529-2009Mon-Fri 11am-8pm, Sat 10am-5pm

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

Squirrel's DenAlways Fresh - Always Delicious33 N. Main St., Mans� eld419-522-9070www.squirrelsden.comMon-Sat 9:30am-5pm, Fri ’til 8pm

We make it here! Solid milk, dark & white chocolate. Homemade fudge and over 21 � avors of popcorn.FEATURED ON

Scotty’s Diamond Power•VacLess Dust – Call Us419-883-3321800-360-0786www.scottysairductcleaning.com

Family Owned & OperatedFree Estimates, Furnace & Airduct Cleaning, Dryer Vents, Chimneys

59JULY/AUG 2012

www.hearto

fohiomag

azine.co

m

Page 62: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

THE LAST WORD

We all know the old African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child”. It’s amazing what a group of people can accomplish when they share a common goal, have strong leadership and have a stake in the results.

So is the case of saving Mansfield’s 179th Air National Guard. Feel the pride as you read the letter from Bridgette McDaniel, president of Richland Community Development Group.

Diane Brown, Publisher

For Release Upon Receipt

For additional information contact: Bridget T. McDaniel @ 419-545-4159 or [email protected]

Great Response from a Great Community

Response to the “Save the Air National Guard C27J mission” was overwhelming. Over 22,000 memos were

sent by local citizens to Congress to express support of the mission. All local media outlets publicized the effort

through the RCDG Media Sector, with additional Email links appearing on websites and Facebook pages to

facilitate the process. The community sent a message loud and clear that the Ohio Air National Guard’s

C27J mission is cost effective and highly successful.

The campaign spurred national and statewide attention to the region; highlighted by both of our

United States Senators and local Congressman attending a media day event in May. Because of this

unprecedented support by the community, Congress took action to extend the mission for one year

while further studies are conducted to validate the cost effectiveness of the C-27J mission.

This email response was one of the most effective mounted by a community, but our level of support

must be maintained to ensure the ultimate success of our efforts to keep the C-27J mission in Mansfield.

The partnership of the media and the business community helped to spread the word and

demonstrated how a coordinated effort can lead to success. Although North Central Ohio has had its

issues, the spirit of community is still strong. The area should be proud and capture this momentum.

Gayle Gorman Freeman and Jeff Gorman, co-chairs of the 179th Airlift Wing

Community Support Group, have been overwhelmed by the level of support

of the community, and especially the unconditional support of Gog Meisse

and Tom Brennan’s Media Sector and RCDG led by John Brown and Bridget

McDaniel, that consistently kept this issue in front of the community to

help ensure the maximum number of people were informed of the

situation and what they could do to help.

Richland Community Development Group

55 N. Mulberry Street, Mansfield, OH 44902

Phone: 419-755-7234

www.ChooseRichland.com

Page 63: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

Collision Repair

More than just Collision RepairCOMPLETE AUTO REPAIR

Family owned and operated since 1953.

Our experience and training make the diff erence!

We work with all insurance companies

Over 395 years of collective automotive experience

25 I-CAR Trained and ASE Certifi ed technicians and staff

6 ASE Certifi ed Master Technicians

Over 98% customer satisfaction rating

595 Fifth Avenue • Mansfield, Ohio 44905 419-524-1350 • Fax: 419-524-8855

www.bakerscollision.com

You’re Driving Home Our Reputation!BRAKES • ALIGNMENTS • HEATING & COOLING

Everything Under the Hood

scan this QR code with your smartphone

Page 64: Heart of Ohio - Jul/Aug 2012

We are a division of Nucor Steel and share their simple business

philosophy: take care of our customers by being the safest,

highest quality, lowest cost, most profitable steel and steel products company in the world.

Our culture expects it. Our actions support it.

Together we can make a difference!

Nucor Steel Marion and General Recycling of Ohio are stewards of our community. Thanks to the generous donations and support of our team and suppliers we were able raise over $67,000 from our 3rd annual Charity Outing. Through these donations and in conjunction with the Make A Wish Foundation we were able to grant the wishes of 6 children from the Marion community. We were also able to support the efforts of the James Cancer Center in its quest to cure cancer.

It’s our nature.

General Recycling of Ohio, LLC, a subsidiary of Nucor Steel Marion, Inc.400 Bartram AvenueMarion, Ohio 43302 740-383-6068

Nucor Steel Marion, Inc.912 Cheney AvenueMarion, Ohio 43302 740-383-4011

www.nucor.comSafety & Health Achievement

Recognition ProgramConsultation: An OSHA Cooperative Program


Recommended