Sharon Bengel – Morning Journal https://www.morningjournal.com Ohio News, Sports, Weather and Things to Do Thu, 18 Jan 2024 22:04:08 +0000 en-US hourly 30 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.morningjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/MorningJournal-siteicon.png?w=16 Sharon Bengel – Morning Journal https://www.morningjournal.com 32 32 192791549 OSV Studios in North Olmsted looking ahead to next 40 years https://www.morningjournal.com/2024/01/19/osv-studios-in-north-olmsted-looking-ahead-to-next-40-years/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 13:00:35 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=815825 Since 1984, every one of Craig Smith’s days has been different and most have been a lot of fun.

Smith started OSV Studios, located at 29605 Lorain Road in North Olmsted, as a small offshoot of his father’s video rental franchise.

OSV Studios in North Olmsted . (Submitted)
OSV Studios in North Olmsted started in 1984. (Submitted)

Since then, he has worked on motion pictures, won multiple awards for his commercials and digitized millions of family photos.

“I basically learned by buying equipment and figuring out how it works,” Smith said. “We still do thousands of film transfer orders every year.”

Smith’s father and grandfather owned Merle Smith Auto Service in Lakewood from 1939 to 1989.

In 1983, Merle Jr. purchased a video rental franchise to diversify his holdings.

After an injury ended his football career at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Smith began working in the store.

Part-time work quickly branched into a $30,000 investment in equipment to do film transfers and photograph weddings.

Then, Smith shot a wedding for an ad executive.

That connection led to hundreds of regional and national spots for Family Dental Centers, Discount Drug Mart, Invacare, LeafGuard, NASA, several area car dealerships and many more.

OSV Studios is located at 29605 Lorain Road in North Olmsted. (Submitted)
OSV Studios is located at 29605 Lorain Road in North Olmsted. (Submitted)

Smith also works regularly with Cleveland’s professional sports teams and shot both the Major League Baseball and National Basketball Association’s All-Star games.

“Over and over again, I’ve had to adapt this business,” he said, recalling recessions as well as rapidly changing technology. “We use the best audio and the best camera equipment available.”

OSV Studios’ current client list runs over 200, and Smith and a staff of eight produce 50 to 60 commercials each month, with occasional help from subcontractors and freelancers.

Smith also rents equipment and his studio space which includes a fully equipped sound stage, a green screen and more.

Motion picture production companies sometimes rent his equipment to supplement their shoots.

Today’s cameras provide much better images than what Smith started out using.

And, equipment is much lighter and less expensive. Editing has improved as well from tapes that physically had to be cut to digital tools used on computers.

OSV Studios' current client list runs over 200. (Submitted)
OSV Studios’ current client list runs over 200. (Submitted)

The next wave of changes comes from the much-discussed AI or artificial intelligence.

But, Smith is cautious about how AI is used.

“I like technology that advances the product,” he said, “not that takes away from writers or artists.”

Smith also frequently works to advance his profession by sharing what he knows with the next generation.

He taught in Berea City Schools for 10 years and frequently employs interns.

“For over 35 years, both nationally and in Cleveland, we’ve amassed an impressive client list that we’re proud to have won many awards for,” according to its website. “Our versatile production capabilities cover all bases.”

Smith also would like to offer classes for local business owners since technology to capture video now is ubiquitous.

“We’re excited for the next decade,” he said, adding that he is currently hiring. “It’s been a great 40 years, and I’m looking forward to 40 more.”

In addition to OSV Studios, Smith owns the building he occupies and rents space to several businesses — such as a full service salon.

After raising his family in Westlake, he now lives in Willard where he and his wife operate Sweet Smitty’s ice cream shop, 302 Walton St. East.

]]>
815825 2024-01-19T08:00:35+00:00 2024-01-18T17:04:08+00:00
Avon Lake Public Library’s DiscoveryWorks continues renovation, fall reopening planned https://www.morningjournal.com/2023/12/31/avon-lake-public-librarys-discoveryworks-continues-renovation-fall-reopening-planned/ Sun, 31 Dec 2023 17:00:48 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=805891 Eureka moments will continue at the Avon Lake Public Library as the DiscoveryWorks center undergoes a major renovation in 2024.

Built in 1995, the hands-on learning environment has become a destination for Ohioans and a jewel in the crown of the Avon Lake Public Library, said Communications Manager Shea Altmont.

DiscoveryWorks draws more than 30,000 visitors annually.

Avon Lake Public Library's DiscoveryWorks center is undergoing a major renovation and will reopen in the fall 2024. (Submitted)
Avon Lake Public Library’s DiscoveryWorks center is undergoing a major renovation and will reopen in the fall 2024. (Submitted)

“People come from up to an hour away,” Altmont said. “They’re learning while they’re enjoying themselves.

“Everything is really hands-on, and the kids love it.”

Local students also visit the center regularly, taking advantage of the lab and classroom space.

Staffed by educators – some of whom grew up visiting the center – DiscoveryWorks includes exhibits on rocks and minerals, a garden area, musical instruments and much more.

The more than 100 exhibits vary in size, and most will be reimagined in the renovations scheduled for the spring and summer months.

“We’re going to take it to the next level and make it an even more dynamic experience for kids and caregivers,” Altmont said.

The rocks and minerals display will be expanded into a walk-thru cave that shows glowing rocks and the layers of the Earth.

Other displays will be augmented with local landmarks.

“We’re going to be pulling in a lot of elements of things you either find in Avon Lake or that are inspired by Avon Lake,” Altmont said.

Just a block from Lake Erie, the new space also will include a wall devoted to Lake Erie life, which will show the natural environment.

Children will be able to draw their own fish and see them appear in the exhibit.

The renovations involve using the roughly 3,000 square feet of space more efficiently rather than adding on to the building, Altmont said.

Seating will also be added, and the hours of the center expanded, she added.

The popular Pipes of Pan — and several other well-loved exhibits originally built by the educators — will be enlarged as well.

Renovations will take place over the summer months while the center’s educators provide alternative outdoor activities on a limited schedule.

Take-home science kits and brown bag projects will continue to be offered.

DiscoveryWorks will reopen in the fall.

Patrons can get involved in the renovation by supporting the Initiative for Innovation Campaign.

Details on exhibit sponsorship and other giving opportunities can be found at alpl.org/discovery.

Altmont said the library is preparing for the upcoming solar eclipse in a strong partnership with the city.

The center line of totality of the April 8 eclipse is projected to align with Avon Lake’s Center Street.

Eclipse information and education are being incorporated into all types of library programming from story time to how to safely photograph the event.

Many events will offer free pairs of glasses for safely viewing the eclipse which is expected to draw thousands to the area.

On Feb. 15, the Dark Skies, Bright Kids Eclipse Program will include speakers from NASA and the Hoover Price Planetarium in Canton as well as door prizes and plenty of activities for youngsters, Altmont said.

“Our big push is to educate, educate, educate and make sure people view the eclipse safely,” she added.

Other offerings at the Avon Lake Public Library include an extensive lending library of non-book items.

The library particularly is proud of its music program which allows patrons to check out guitars and ukeleles and offers a program of lessons and jam sessions.

The library also lends bicycles, hotspots, Rokus and a variety of older technology such as VHS and cassette players.

It even has traffic cones for helping teens practice for their driving tests, Altmont said.

Avon Lake Public Library works to promote other area organizations as well as its own innovative offerings, which include a beach glass class taught by Altmont.

“We’re constantly thinking about how to serve our visitors better,” she said. “We kind of pride ourselves on not being a typical library.

“We love that we’re the place for learning and where people can find out what’s going on.”

]]>
805891 2023-12-31T12:00:48+00:00 2023-12-29T22:11:34+00:00
The Shoppes of Olde Avon Village offers one-of-a-kind shopping https://www.morningjournal.com/2023/12/26/the-shoppes-of-olde-avon-village-offers-one-of-a-kind-shopping/ Wed, 27 Dec 2023 01:00:13 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=805885 Avon families and visitors from near and far experience a history lesson, a one-of-a-kind shopping trip and a delicious meal all in one unique setting at The Shoppes of Olde Avon Village.

The Shoppes are located at 36840 Detroit Road on the former Mathias Alten farm, and each building has a long story and a creative current use.

The journey began in 1995 when Ron Larson bought the “front house,” which now is home to the Tree House Gallery and Tea Room operated by his daughter Jenna.

“My dad has preserved and saved quite a few buildings in Avon and brought them to their forever home,” she said.

The Larsons operate businesses in three of the buildings and serve as landlord to the other shopkeepers.

The Tree House serves lunch daily and also offers an eclectic collection of gift items as well as a wine shop.

The Tree House menu includes popular lobster bisque, and all items are made from scratch.

Jenna Larson also has many catering clients.

She has worked in the Tree House since she was 16 and took over running it 15 years ago after her father decided to open the Strip Steakhouse nearby.

The steakhouse operates in the Blackwell Barn, moved to the site from Knox County by Ron Larson in 2003.

The German-style barn is typical of what would have been found in the Avon area as well, he said.

The Strip is a destination restaurant specializing in USDA prime beef as well as tempting desserts and craft cocktails.

“We have a great group of creative individuals,” Ron Larson said. “Part of my task is to bring that creativity.”

The Larsons also operate Stone Eagle Farm on another historic property, supplying both fish and produce to the Tree House and Strip.

Other buildings on the property include:

• An 1882 Train Depot and 1918 Baltimore and Ohio Caboose, home to the Railway Barbershop.

• The 1840s George Clifton Barn which serves as an event venue.

• The 1857 Gibbs-Binns House which is home to Chez Michel French Market and was moved to the Olde Avon Village in 1987.

• The 1843 Lewis House which houses Details, an upscale gift shop and was moved to the property in 2002.

“We try to highlight what was,” Ron Larson said. “Each one of the buildings has its own flair.”

The Shoppes currently has a few vacancies, Jenna Larson said, but the landlords are particular about leasing to small businesses based locally.

“We know our customers on a first name basis,” she said. “We see them regularly, and that’s the best part of operating a small business.

“Everyone who come in here is like family.”

The Larsons also work to give back to the community sponsoring local school groups and others as well as answering more than 700 letters to Santa last Christmas.

“We try to make sure everyone has a sense of participation,” Ron Larson said.

Jenna Larson added: “We are an impactful part of the community.”

]]>
805885 2023-12-26T20:00:13+00:00 2023-12-26T17:16:34+00:00
Impressive Creations 4U in Avon Lake offers variety of items from local vendors https://www.morningjournal.com/2023/12/22/impressive-creations-4u-in-avon-lake-offers-variety-of-items-from-local-vendors/ Fri, 22 Dec 2023 19:30:50 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=805869 Impressive Creations 4U has done a brisk business since opening in July, in the Discount Drug Mart Plaza located in the 33000 block of Walker Road.

“The community of Avon Lake has definitely welcomed us with open arms,” said owner Connie Simpson, who grew up a mile from the store. “We’ve done very, very well, but there’s always room for improvement.”

Simpson rents spaces ranging from single shelves to huge displays to local artists and crafters.

Her 1,200-square-foot space is a collaboration of creativity.

Impressive Creations 4U, located in the 33000 block of Walker Road in Avon Lake, has unique stocking stuffers from 80 different artists. (Submitted)
Impressive Creations 4U, located in the 33000 block of Walker Road in Avon Lake, has unique stocking stuffers from 80 different artists. (Submitted)

The wide-ranging offerings include natural soaps, hand-poured candles, beach glass jewelry, painted lightbulbs, crocheted dish scrubbers and stuffed animals, beach wear, nostalgic candy and fresh flower arrangements.

Almost all products are made locally and many are less than $10.

“If you can’t find something here, there’s nothing that you need,” Simpson said. “Every day you come in, it’s something new.

“I have 80 different artists in here and the products change as their moods change. You cannot see it all in one trip.”

Simpson’s business model means small crafters can get their products in front of more customers without maintaining an arduous craft show schedule.

Craft shows can be difficult for many vendors since they have to transport their products, rent booth space and move a lot of boxes with no guarantee they will sell anything.

Simpson leases space month-to-month giving crafters time to replenish their stock as needed.

She monitors sales and keeps displays clean and neat.

Often, the crafters work together as well, creating gift baskets or simply providing each other with inspiration.

“We feed off each other; we help each other to produce the best products we can produce,” Simpson said. “I’ve grown to love every one of these vendors and the support they’ve given me.”

Simpson also tries to keep the stock from being repetitive and has a waiting list of crafters who would like to rent spaces.

Many customers quickly have become regulars often stopping in to see the rotating stock.

A customer appreciation event with Santa was well-attended, she said.

In the coming year, Simpson would like to tap into the expertise of her vendors by offering classes to the community.

“A lot of people want to get into crafting and they don’t know what they want to do,” Simpson said. “Somebody here should be able to teach you something.”

She’s also started a loyalty program where customers can earn points toward discounts.

Customers can fill out a “Wish List” card and send family and friends in to buy gifts that will be guaranteed to please.

Although her days are long, Simpson enjoys every minute.

“I’m loving it right now,” she said. “I’m feeling really confident going into the new year.”

]]>
805869 2023-12-22T14:30:50+00:00 2023-12-22T08:28:59+00:00
Avon Lake Matters podcast part of city’s communication efforts https://www.morningjournal.com/2023/12/22/avon-lake-matters-podcast-part-of-citys-communication-efforts/ Fri, 22 Dec 2023 13:25:55 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=805858 In just over two years, Jen Miller has had no trouble finding subjects for the Avon Lake Matters podcast.

“Avon Lake and Lorain County in general have such a richness of people who are engaged, nonprofits who do so much,” Miller said. “We’ve never been at a loss for topics.”

As part of the city’s Communications and Technology Department, Miller records the podcast every other week.

Residents and fans further afield can find it on all the major podcast platforms as well as the city’s website.

In her nine years with the city, Miller said the Communications and Technology Department has morphed in many ways taking responsibility for the Government Access TV channel, the Community Access TV channel and the city website as well as a printed newsletter for residents.

“It felt like we were still missing something,” she said, explaining how the podcast was born.

Director Barb Cagley had some experience with podcasting, and Miller said she has learned a lot as part of the team that produces the show.

“I had no background in interviewing or journalism,” she said, describing the casual style of the show. “If it’s something you’re interested in and passionate about, it’s an easy conversation.”

The shows also include an opportunity for residents to ask questions of city officials.

Overall, the goal is to educate and inform residents.

Listener statistics show some episodes have been downloaded hundreds of times.

Miller noted listeners are as far away as Japan, presumably former residents of the community.

She’s even interviewed Santa Claus for the show.

Miller said she looks forward to creating new shows in 2024.

Topics she’d like to try include getting to know members of City Council as well as stories of local business people.

A YouTube channel is also planned.

“I love it; there are so many stories,” Miller said. “It’s my favorite part of my job.”

Avon Lake residents interested in creating their own podcast can access the city’s equipment at no charge, Miller added.

If you have a suggestion for the pocast, contact Miller at alctv@avonlake.org.

]]>
805858 2023-12-22T08:25:55+00:00 2023-12-22T08:26:31+00:00
For Their Future owners operate Common Good Collective in Norwalk https://www.morningjournal.com/2023/11/26/for-their-future-owners-operate-common-good-collective-in-norwalk/ Sun, 26 Nov 2023 23:00:25 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=797355 Childhood friends Sarah Smith and Allison McDonald work to make a better future for their children one product at a time.

The two have collaborated with each other to create For Their Future – a refill business providing bulk products and refillable containers – and with others to create the Common Good Collective in downtown Norwalk.

McDonald grew up watching her parents run a small business in Norwalk and learned about refill shops during the pandemic.

It was during the coronavirus pandemic, that the idea for For Their Future was born.

“We were taking walks during COVID, discussing all the things we want to fix,” Smith said. “Our reason is our kids.”

They began participating in farmers markets and in September 2021 helped create a new one to draw people to uptown Norwalk.

Then, a storefront owned by McDonald’s father became available.

The retail space opened just over a year ago.

“We opened with 10 vendors we knew from markets,” McDonald said. “It worked out really well.

“Now, we have more than 20.”

Some vendors rent space and other goods are sold on consignment at the Common Good Collective. (Submitted)
Some vendors rent space and other goods are sold on consignment at the Common Good Collective. (Submitted)

Inside the Common Good Collective, For Their Future is one of many businesses occupying space.

It’s the only refill shop in north central Ohio.

Some vendors rent space and other goods are sold on consignment.

Most of the businesses are home based, but some are more traditional retailers.

Smith and McDonald look at how the vendors they use try to lessen plastics in their products.

Very little plastic is recycled, they said.

Even when recycled plastic is used, virgin plastic has to be added to it.

Plastic destined to be recycled used to be shipped to Asia, but that has become very expensive, McDonald said.

The current estimate is that only five percent of plastics are recycled in the United States.

“It’s being manufactured at a rate higher than it ever has been,” Smith said. “We need to find alternatives.”

Smith and McDonald hope their refills and other products help people begin to make incremental changes toward using less plastic and fewer chemicals.

“We’ve been trained that we can buy everything we want really cheap,” McDonald added. “We’re not good with change as humans.

“If we can help people make some changes now, and think about it differently, that’s what we’re here for.”

Refillable products at the store include detergent, hand soap, dish soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste and all-purpose cleaners.

The store also stocks dryer balls, silicone baking mats and bamboo toothbrushes.

They also offer some “create your own” options for cleaners using natural ingredients and essential oils.

For the refills, customers can buy containers or bring their own and the two also will refill containers while customers run other errands.

Other products carried at the Common Good Collective include candles, jewelry, baked goods, home décor, rosaries and stuffed animals.

They also have baby items, bath bombs, Norwalk-themed items and a variety of unique gifts.

An herbalist supplies salves, teas and more.

The pair also try everything they sell so they know it and can share accurate information with their customers.

And, so far, they make up the bulk of the staff for the same reasons.

Smith and McDonald also want Norwalk residents and visitors to know how much is available in the uptown area.

Berry’s Restaurant is set to reopen, hopefully, in time for Christmas, and other shops sell clothing and a variety of home goods.

“We’re really trying to get people to shop uptown and remember what is here,” Smith said.

The Common Good Collective at 11 W. Main St. is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays.

]]>
797355 2023-11-26T18:00:25+00:00 2023-11-25T14:43:38+00:00
Stein’s Honey in Collins is a family business https://www.morningjournal.com/2023/11/25/steins-honey-in-collins-is-a-family-business/ Sat, 25 Nov 2023 17:00:51 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=797392 Wes and Kelsey Stein have four children, but care for thousands of lives in the more than 1,000 bee hives that produce Stein’s Honey, 5345 W. Collins Road in Collins, just outside of Norwalk.

After growing up in the business run by his parents, Bill and Bonnie, Wes took over the operation in October.

“In the last few years, many people have begun to see the importance of bees,” Wes Stein said, adding that the greater awareness has allowed the company to expand.

He remembers the honey production occurring almost by accident.

In 1998, Bill Stein had an orchard that wasn’t producing fruit.

Meanwhile, relatives owned Bergman Orchards in Port Clinton and said fruit wasn’t forming due to a lack of pollinators.

More than 1,000 bee hives produce Stein's Honey, 5345 W. Collins Road in Collins, just outside Norwalk. (Submitted)
More than 1,000 bee hives produce Stein’s Honey, 5345 W. Collins Road in Collins, just outside Norwalk. (Submitted)

So, hives were brought in.

“It basically wasn’t the thought of honey,” Wes Stein said. “We just wanted the pollinators.”

Shortly, two hives became 10, then 25 and then 100.

When Bill Stein sold to his son, the company had 860 hives.

Combined with 200 some hives Wes had been maintaining, the company now has approximately 1,100.

Wes Stein quit his full-time construction job this past April.

More than 70 retail locations carry Stein’s Honey and it has many wholesale customers as well.

Stein also sells bees and offers advice to new beekeepers.

The hives produced 150 barrels in 2023, he said.

Each barrel holds between 620 and 645 pounds of honey.

Beeswax candles and other products also are produced.

The Stein bees are migratory.

Wes explained that bees produce honey for their own food.

Beekeepers are critical partners for all sorts of crops across the country since without their pollination activity crops don't produce. (Submitted)
Beekeepers are critical partners for all sorts of crops across the country since without their pollination activity crops don’t produce. (Submitted)

It’s excess honey that is harvested and consumed by people.

Beekeepers are critical partners for all sorts of crops across the country since without their pollination activity crops don’t produce.

To keep his hives strong, Wes Stein sends most of them south for the winter.

They move to Georgia in October and are able to feed themselves by gathering natural pollen.

The honey they produce is left in the hives to keep the bees strong.

In January, most of the Stein hives will head for California almond groves — along with a large portion of hives kept throughout the U.S., Wes Stein said.

In March, they will return to Ohio.

From March to May, the bees will feed on the honey they made in California.

Then they will be ready to pollinate Ohio’s apple orchards from May to September.

“It’s very weather dependent,” Wes Stein said. “In Ohio, it’s hard to keep your bees alive in the winter.

“It’s giving the bees a better life than I have. They get to travel more than I do.”

Without the migration, the Steins would have to feed the bees over the winter using sugar water.

That produces inferior honey and less healthy hives, Wes Stein said.

Because of the migration, the bees are well-fed and more of the Ohio honey can be harvested.

During apple pollination season, the Steins have hives in 45 locations in a radius from their farm in Collins.

“We have to strategically place them and space them out as much as we can so they don’t compete for the same food source,” Stein said.

Right now, Wes and Bill perform most of the hive work: checking hives, moving bees around to make sure all hives are equally strong.

Kelsey and the couple’s two oldest children also help with bottling the honey and marketing activities.

Wyatt, 7, and Avery, 5, already have their own bee suits.

Three-year-old Riley and 1-year-old Miles also will grow up with the business.

“I need them to be used to it,” Wes Stein said. “Our kids need to not be afraid of bees because they’re going to be around them.”

People enjoy honey not just for its natural deliciousness, but also for the health benefits they see in it.

“Honey is linked with a lot of great things. A lot of people preach home remedies with honey,” Wes Stein said. “With all the bad stuff that happened to bees, it made people aware and that allowed us to grow our business.”

]]>
797392 2023-11-25T12:00:51+00:00 2023-11-24T20:52:35+00:00
Norwalk Public Library readies for Holiday Extravaganza https://www.morningjournal.com/2023/11/24/norwalk-public-library-readies-for-holiday-extravaganza/ Fri, 24 Nov 2023 13:00:05 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=797364 Norwalk Public Library expects 300 people to visit for its third annual Holiday Extravaganza from 5-7 p.m., Dec. 6, at 46 W. Main St.

As residents became more comfortable in groups after the coronavirus pandemic, the library revived events beginning with a children’s Halloween party in 2021, said Assistant Director Miranda Jenkins.

“We were so thrilled with the turnout, we decided to throw another party in December,” Jenkins said, adding that ever since, library events have been well-attended. “We think we’re on par to have another 300 people.”

The event always includes live music, animals for children to read to and refreshments.

The library collaborates with the Firelands Historical Society, which was founded in the Carnegie-era building and now occupies space nearby.

The Firelands Historical Society hosts Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as provides refreshments, Jenkins said.

This year, harpist Karen Westgate will perform as will magician Michael Mage.

The Whitman family will bring its pet rabbits for children to read to and take photos with.

“We’ll give the kids a chance to read to them, pet them and just be with animals,” Jenkins said, noting that last year’s animal guests will be a hard act to follow. “We had so many people surprised that we had alpacas in the library.

“And, we had so many kids — and several adults — wanting pictures with the alpacas.”

Jenkins said the holiday events are a great way to bring the community into the library and spread the word about its services.

“So many people don’t know we offer so many activities for free,” she said. “Ohio is so fortunate to have so many libraries.

“Everyone is doing something a little bit different.”

Notary services are the latest addition to the Norwalk Public Library’s offerings.

Residents are encouraged to call ahead to make sure the properly credentialed staff member is on duty.

Norwalk Public Library's Book Bugs program offers trading cards for youngsters and adults who record reading hours. (Submitted)
Norwalk Public Library’s Book Bugs program offers trading cards for youngsters and adults who record reading hours. (Submitted)

Jenkins said she also is excited about the Norwalk Public Library’s Book Bugs program, which offers trading cards for youngsters and adults who record reading hours.

The program runs during the school year as a way to maintain reading momentum begun during the popular summer program.

“We’re trying to encourage kids to read throughout the school year with some additional incentive,” Jenkins said. “We think it’s a great program.”

Other recurring events include a weekly story time, monthly family party and monthly Kids in the Kitchen events.

At 4:30 p.m., Dec. 12, a staff member will share her family’s secrets to making pierogis for the Kids in the Kitchen program geared toward first- through sixth-graders.

The next family party is set for Jan. 30 and is themed around the “Bad Guys” series of middle grade chapter books.

“We love to have people in our library enjoying the space,” Jenkins said. “Everything the library does is free.

“Anyone who is able to come, we want them to come.”

Norwalk Public Library has a story walk installed at Sofios Park on North Old State Road. (Submitted)
Norwalk Public Library has a story walk installed at Sofios Park on North Old State Road. (Submitted)

The Norwalk Public Library also has a story walk installed at Sofios Park on North Old State Road.

The book “Wombats are Pretty Weird” by Abi Cushman has just been installed.

Depending on the weather in early 2024, the book likely will be displayed through the end of January, Jenkins said.

“We think folks who go out will learn a lot,” Jenkins added.

Some library programs such as the Holiday Extravaganza are open to all to drop in, she said.

Others like Kids in the Kitchen require registration, Jenkins said.

For complete details on all events, visit www.norwalk.lib.oh.us.

“We think that libraries across the state are doing just phenomenal work,” Jenkins said. “We are thrilled to be a small part of it.”

]]>
797364 2023-11-24T08:00:05+00:00 2023-11-23T11:44:33+00:00
Ty Bielozer of North Ridgeville grew in faith on mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints https://www.morningjournal.com/2023/11/23/ty-bielozer-of-north-ridgeville-grew-in-faith-on-mission-for-the-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saints/ Thu, 23 Nov 2023 14:00:20 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=797311 Ty Bielozer grew his faith and his confidence on a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“My faith has been a large part of my life,” the North Ridgeville High School graduate said. “I already enjoyed sharing what I believe and this was an opportunity that always interested me.”

In the Mormon church, men and women as young as 18 are encouraged to become missionaries.

They are trained for six weeks, sometimes learn a foreign language and are placed throughout the world to share their faith and serve others.

Ty, 20, is the oldest of Keith and Alexis’ three children.

As a high school student, Ty played trumpet in the marching band, earned straight As and stood out as a kind, motivated young man, his dad said.

Ty Bielozer, center wearing suit and tie, of North Ridgeville, with family and friends. (Submitted)
Ty Bielozer, center wearing suit and tie, of North Ridgeville, with family and friends. (Submitted)

However, the mission field changed everything.

“The transformation is crazy,” Keith said. “When he came back, he was a man. He’s not my little boy anymore.”

After being accepted at Brigham Young University, Ty deferred enrollment to go on his mission which took him to Spanish speaking neighborhoods in the greater Seattle area as one of approximately 200 missionaries.

He said he now is fluent in Spanish and proficient in Portuguese.

Ty’s daily and weekly activities while on mission were pretty tightly scheduled, beginning with daily workouts, scripture and language studies.

Once a week, he could call home.

The rest of the time was spent finding ways to talk to people working with a rotating companion.

Playing basketball, soccer, working with location congregations on service projects and old-fashioned door-to-door visits, the missionaries worked on building relationships and inviting people to learn more about their church.

“Most people were very respectful, although they weren’t really interested,” Ty said. “It totally depended on the day but there were a wide variety of reactions.

“A lot of times we would find people who were interested in learning more.”

Homesick

The early days were hard for both Ty and his family.

“It was super hard for six or eight months,” Keith said, and then the family settled into a routine with weekly phone calls and ways to involve Ty in family meals, games and other traditions.”

At first, Ty said he was really homesick.

“It was definitely a big wake-up call from high school to real life,” he said.

Ty Bielozer, a North Ridgeville High School graduate, is a member of the Brigham Young University marching band. (Submitted)
Ty Bielozer, a North Ridgeville High School graduate, is a member of the Brigham Young University marching band. (Submitted)

Ty said he believes he is more organized and appreciated learning to cook and live on his own while getting along with a lot of different people.

“I got a lot better at handling stress and helping others handle stress,” he said. “I’d say emotionally is where I matured the most.

“It was a great opportunity to develop good habits and learn.”

Ty also had an opportunity to lead, a role which rotated among the missionaries in his area.

The goal of sending missionaries out is to grow the church, Keith said, so it’s not for everyone.

However, Ty had wanted to go since age 12, following in the footsteps of his mother’s brother.

He is so well-liked, his dad said, dozens of families from outside the Westlake congregation logged on for his Facebook Live send off.

“We kept telling Ty, you’re doing missionary work and you haven’t even left yet,” Keith said.

Ty’s parents weren’t the only ones to notice his transformation.

“It definitely was a great program for him,” said Kevin Bielozer, Ty’s uncle and the chief of the Westlake Police Department.

“I’ve never met a kid like him,” added Kevin’s wife, Aimee, “to always have such a drive and want to do better.”

Ty is majoring in computer science at BYU and playing trumpet for their marching band.

He earned the coveted spot by being one of 900 to submit video auditions for the 300-member group.

His mission

Ty continues to work his assignment in the church, co-leading a group of other students.

He knows that his time in the mission field will help him with whatever the church asks him to do in the future.

Ty said mission is not required for any of the church assignments, but he knows it made a difference for him.

“The mission is a personal thing to devote yourself to the Lord,” he said. “The mission gives you a lot of skills that will help you do your assignment.

“I just need to make sure I keep applying what I learned.”

Devotion to the Lord is the primary consideration for anyone thinking about making a mission, Ty said.

“Take the time each day to pray, read your scripture and recognize what the church has done in your life,” he said. “Make sure you believe in what you’re doing.

“The experiences are deep and life changing.”

]]>
797311 2023-11-23T09:00:20+00:00 2023-11-22T16:28:38+00:00
Sandusky Book Bar opens in former YMCA space https://www.morningjournal.com/2023/11/13/sandusky-book-bar-opens-in-former-ymca-space/ Tue, 14 Nov 2023 00:00:16 +0000 https://www.morningjournal.com/?p=795414 Janie Ahner harnessed local companies and the power of the written word to create a cozy shop already on its way to establish itself as a community staple.

Opened on Nov. 1, the Sandusky Book Bar, located in the former YMCA building at 2101 W. Perkins Ave., is a used bookshop with a coffee bar.

Ahner expects her liquor license next week, which will extend both hours and offerings.

As a first-time business owner, Ahner said she appreciates the helpful interest she’s received, especially from her brother Dan.

“I worked only with folks in the local area,” she said. “I knew the renovation would be huge.

“I have gotten such an outpouring of support from local businesses and the local community.”

Ahner and her three brothers grew up in Sandusky and graduated from Perkins High School.

The Sandusky Book Bar, located in the former YMCA building at 2101 W. Perkins Ave., is a used bookshop with a coffee bar that opened Nov. 1. (Submitted)
The Sandusky Book Bar, located in the former YMCA building at 2101 W. Perkins Ave., is a used bookshop with a coffee bar that opened Nov. 1. (Submitted)

In 2019, the family bought the building after the YMCA closed.

The brothers operate Ahner Commercial Doors and Windows in part of the building.

“This part of the building was just sitting here, so I said, “do you mind if I try something?” Ahner recalled.

The shelves currently are stocked with used books from Ahner’s own collection, auctions and sales, or donations.

The Sandusky Book Bar, located in the former YMCA building at 2101 W. Perkins Ave., is a used bookshop with a coffee bar that opened Nov. 1. (Submitted)
The Sandusky Book Bar, located in the former YMCA building at 2101 W. Perkins Ave., is a used bookshop with a coffee bar that opened Nov. 1. (Submitted)

Several local authors also have stopped in, and their books are being sold on consignment.

Sales have been steady since opening day, Ahner said.

“I’m always on the hunt; people are loving the used stuff,” she said. “I would love to get to a point where I can bring in popular new stuff.”

Locals who have visited or heard about the shop are not surprised.

Growing up, Ahner always had a book in her hand, locals said.

The Sandusky Book Bar, located in the former YMCA building at 2101 W. Perkins Ave., is a used bookshop with a coffee bar that opened Nov. 1. (Submitted)
The Sandusky Book Bar, located in the former YMCA building at 2101 W. Perkins Ave., is a used bookshop with a coffee bar that opened Nov. 1. (Submitted)

Meanwhile, Ahner maintains her full-time job as an account executive with an area health technology company.

The list of future events and adventures already fills a notebook.

The constantly flowing ideas include book clubs, signing events and more.

The building has a nice patio space she said she hopes to have ready next spring.

Furnishing the 4,000-square-foot space challenges Ahner’s Craigslist skills, but she said she is working to bring in more seating and décor.

The shop already is popular with area youth who gather to socialize as well as read.

“I’ve tried to make it cozy,” Ahner said. “I’ve had a lot of local artists reach out about displaying their work.”

The Sandusky Book Bar, located in the former YMCA building at 2101 W. Perkins Ave., is a used bookshop with a coffee bar that opened Nov. 1. (Submitted)
The Sandusky Book Bar, located in the former YMCA building at 2101 W. Perkins Ave., is a used bookshop with a coffee bar that opened Nov. 1. (Submitted)

The book bar operates with a crew of five part-time employees hand-picked by Ahner, just like those who helped her renovate.

Popular items at the coffee bar right now include a lavender vanilla latte, lavender lemonade and pastries from Bake Erie.

The general manager and mixologist plans several unique cocktails once the liquor license is granted.

“It gives me a chance to rebuild a community asset,” Ahner said.

She continues to both purchase and accept donations of used books.

Hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. until Nov. 19.

Starting Nov. 20, hours will be 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Mondays through Saturdays, and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sundays.

]]>
795414 2023-11-13T19:00:16+00:00 2023-11-13T17:45:34+00:00