To View November 2018 Holiday Traditions

Holiday Tradi ons 2018

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00299394 TABLE OF CONTENTS Christmas Breakfast Ideas ...... 4 Top 25 Christmas Songs ...... 6-13 Putnam County Event Guide ...... 14 Chocolate Gingerbread Recipe ...... 15 4-H Holiday Lights ...... 16-17 Local Santa Claus Memories ...... 20-21 Delphos Christmas Tree Festival ...... 22-23 30 Ways to Celebrate a Merry Month ..... 24 47th Annual Christmas Carol Sing ...... 25 Van Wert County Holiday Event Guide 26 Allen County Holiday Event Guide ...... 28-29 Delphos Christmas Activities ...... 30-31

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Holiday Traditions 3 Thanksgiving 2018 Christmas Breakfast Ideas

Christmas morning is an exciting and joyous time for families. Children are anxious to rush downstairs and see what Santa has le under the tree, and parents are eager to see the looks on youngsters’ happy faces. Having a fast and easy breakfast at the ready on Christmas morning allows families to jump right into the festivities rather than spending too much time in the kitchen. is recipe for “Spiced Yogurt Mu ns,” courtesy of the National Dairy Council, Dannon and McCormick, can be made in advance and then enjoyed while peeking into Christmas stockings or watching holiday parades on television. is big-batch recipe is ideal for feeding a houseful of overnight holiday guests. Or it can be prepared in advance and doled out as needed throughout the week. e mu ns also can be made as a treat for holiday o ce luncheons. Cut the recipe in half for smaller yields. Spiced Yogurt Mufﬁ ns 1 box (5 lbs) Gold Medal® Mufﬁ n Mix, (Yield: 50 servings) Whole Grain Variety tablespoons McCormick pumpkin pie spice 61⁄2 cups Dannon plain fat-free Greek yogurt 3 tablespoons McCormick Chipotle 4 cups water, room temperature 2 cinnamon

Combine yogurt and water in mixing bowl. Whisk until blended. Set aside. Add spices to dry mu n mix in a large bowl. Add yogurt and water mixture to the mu n mixture. Mix until just blended. Don’t overmix. Using a scoop, portion into greased or lined mu n pans. Bake at 350 F for 24 minutes, or 17 to 20 minutes in a convection oven, until the tops are golden brown.

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5 Thanksgiving 2018 Top 25 Christmas Songs to Get [You in the Mood for Christmas [

Arguably one of the best ways to get in the more contemporary music sung by Mariah Carey, it Christmas spirit is through the jolly, heart-warming can be hard to put together the best mix of Christ- songs that play each Christmas. mas tunes without forgetting some, so we’ve done Every year we enjoy a straight month of tunes it for you! that motivate us to put that tree up or get all our This list is compiled of the top Christmas songs shopping done. Christmas music has been around according to a mix of sales, Billboard spots, and for centuries and will likely continue being played, and songs worth singing to over and over to help get made, for centuries more. you in the spirit. So here is the Holiday Traditions From traditional songs sung by Burl Ives to Top 25 Christmas songs:

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Holiday Traditions 6 Thanksgiving 2018 25. “I’ll be Home for Christmas” by Michael Buble Buble released an entire Christmas album in 2011 entitled “Christ- mas.” The album is full of covers of traditional Christmas songs, as well as some new ones. His version of “I’ll be Home for Christmas” is soothing and doesn’t stray too far from the original.

24. “Do You Hear What I Hear?” by Carrie Underwood Originally written in 1962 by husband and wife Noel Regney and Gloria Shayne Baker as a plea for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Underwood’s version is a soft, yet powerful homage to the original.

23. “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” by U2 Released in 1987, this song ranked No. 1 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of Greatest Rock and Roll Christmas songs for its “sheer vocal power.”

22. “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney A song sure to express how great the Christmas season is, this song from 1979 has been a long-time favorite and is perfect to add to a Christmas playlist.

21.“Feliz Navidad” by Jose Feliciano Released in 1970, this song became a classic instantly in many different countries around the world due to its Spanish chorus that is intertwined with an English verse. This is a culturally-culti- vating Christmas tune that can be educational. The course, “Felize Navidad, pospero ano y felicidad,” translates to “Merry Christmas, a prosperous year and happiness.”

Holiday Traditions 7 Thanksgiving 2018 Top 25 ChristmaS Songs

20. “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” by Bruce Springsteen The original version of this song became an instant hit, selling more than 30,000 records within 24 hours. Springsteen’s version takes a classic song and adds a little bit of rock ‘n roll to it. A nice change up from all the similar sounding songs during the season.

19. “Where Are You Christmas?” by Faith Hill Released with the live-action movie of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” this 2000 contemporary Christmas song was originally written by Mariah Carey, who was unable to record it herself due to legality issues. This song is about those that do not feel as if they are in a Christmas spirit.

18. “Little Saint Nick” by The Beach Boys Released in 1964, this song shares a lot of rhythmic and structural similarities with the group’s song “Little Deuce Coupe.” This is a song not often covered, which makes it perfect for the list, as it has originality.

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Holiday Traditions 8 Thanksgiving 2018 17. “Hawaiian Christmas Song (Mele Kalikimaka)” by Bing Crosby & The Andrews Sisters Another cultural Christmas song, this hit released in 1950 is a catchy tune with Hawaiian language included in it. “Mele Kalikima- ka” translates to “Merry Christmas.”

16. “Blue Christmas” by Elvis Presley A song about love, this classic released in 1957 is a great one to add to a holiday play-list to give to a loved one.

15. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Gene Autry Released in 1949, this song aided in the popularity of Rudolph after the book of the same title was written just 10 years prior. Autry’s version holds the title for being the only chart-topping hit to fall completely off the charts after hitting number one.

14. “Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24)” by Trans- Siberian Orchestra The song most notable known as “the Home Alone song,” was released in 1996 and is the second most downloaded Christmas songs in history.

Holiday Traditions 9 Thanksgiving 2018 Top 25 Christmas Songs

13. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Michael Buble A new take on a old songs. Buble’s version, released in 2011, allows a more contemporary version of a classic song. Buble is a wonderful musician, and unlike some remakes, this one is sure to please the ears.

12. “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” by Thurl Ravenscroft Originally written by Dr. Seuss himself, Ravenscroft performs this 1966 tune about how a grouchy, mean and sinister Grinch lacks the Christmas spirit. This song is perfect for those that can’t wait for the holidays to be over.

11. “Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow” by Dean Martin Martin’s version of this song is perhaps the most beloved and well- known adaptation. Released in 1959, Martin’s take on this classic Christmas favorite is one every household knows.

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Holiday Traditions 10 Thanksgiving 2018 10. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams Released in 1963, this timeless Christmas classic is a song celebrat- ing Christmas itself. If Christmas cheer is what you need, look no further than this wonderful classic.

9. “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” by John Lennon & Yoko Ono Only the seventh single written by Lennon outside of The Beatles, this 1971 Christmas song doubles as a protest song to the Vietnam War. It is a Christmas song with a peaceful underlying message and a beautifulLadies’Ladies’ Ladies’anthem to the season. Night Night Night Out Out Out atat at Ladies’Ladies’December NightDecember Night Out Out 7 ★ ★6-8 pm6-8pm Ladies’ Ladies’NightLadies’ Night NightOut Out Out 7★ at at Ladies’December Night Out Leave the kids 7& men at 6-8pm Ladies’atat Night Out Leave the kids & men at at at home—thisLeave the is kids YOUR & NIGHT!men at at home—this is YOUR NIGHT! DecemberDecember ★ 76-8 ★pm 6-8pmhome—this is AllYOUR NIGHT! December7★ ★ 6-86-8 pmpm All DecemberDecember 7Leave the 7 6-85kids & menpm at Store LeaveDecember the kidshome—this & men is YOUR at★ NIGHT!6-8pm All DecemberLeave Leave7 the ★the kids kids76-8 & men& menpm at at % Store Leavehome—this the kidshome—this is& YOUR men is YOUR NIGHT!atAll NIGHT! %Merchandise home-Leave thethis kids is YOUR & men NIGHT! at 15 StoreMerchandise home—thisLeave the is kids home—thisYOUR &All men NIGHT!% is YOURAll atStore NIGHT! 15% (Except Sale Items) home—this is YOUR15 NIGHT!StoreAllMerchandise SomeMerchandise(Except exclusions Sale apply Items) All%Store (Except Sale15 Items) off Some exclusions apply Some exclusions apply 15%•AlloffMerchandise% FreeMerchandiseStore Gift to First 50 Ladies •(Except Refreshments Sale Items) • Door 15 • StoreFree Gift to First 50(Except LadiesMerchandise • RefreshmentsSale Items) • Door Some exclusions apply Free Gift to First 50 Ladies off %15 Some exclusions apply Prizes • Free ring cleaning & inspections Prizes(Except • Free ring Sale cleaning Items) & inspections • StoreFree (Except Sale Items) Gift to First 50 Ladies • Refreshments • Door offMerchandise• RefreshmentsSomefrom exclusions Laudick’s • JewelryDoor apply Prizesoff 15 %• Free Gift to First 50 LadiesSome • Refreshments exclusions apply • Door from Laudick’s Jewelry Free Gift to First 50 Ladies off•Prizesoff(Except 647•Merchandise Free W. Freering SaleErvin cleaning Items) Rd., & inspections Van Wert Prizes Gift to • First Free 50 ring Ladies cleaning • Refreshments & inspections • Door 15• Free Gift to •First• Free Refreshments 50Gift Ladies to First •50 Refreshments Ladies • •Door Refreshments Prizes• Door • Door FreeFreeSome fromGiftGift exclusions Laudick’s toto First First Jewelry647 50 apply50 Ladies Ladies Prizes W. • Free Ervinfrom ring Laudick’s cleaningRd., Van Jewelry& inspections Wert Prizes • Free Prizesring(Except cleaning• Free419.238.1546 ring Sale cleaning& inspections Items) & inspections off647• Refreshments W.Some Ervinfrom exclusions Laudick’s Rd., • JewelryDoor Van apply Prizes Wert • Free Gift to First 50 Ladiesfrom• Refreshments Laudick’s • Refreshments Jewelry • Door • Door Prizes from Laudick’s Jewelry off647 W. Ervin647 Rd., Van Wert 419.238.1546 W. Ervin Rd., Van Wert • FreePrizes Gift •647 Freeto First ringW. 50 Ervincleaning647 Ladies419.238.1546 W. •Rd., Refreshments Ervin& inspections Van 647Rd., Wert Van • Door Wert W. Ervin Rd., Van Wert Prizes from• Free Laudick’s ring cleaning Jewelry & inspections 419.238.1546419.238.1546 647 W. Ervin419.238.1546from Laudick’s Rd., Jewelry Van Wert 419.238.1546 647 W. Ervin Rd., Van Wert 419.238.1546 419.238.1546Holiday Traditions 419.238.1546 11 Thanksgiving 2018 Top 25 Christmas Songs

8. “Last Christmas” by Wham! Popular 80’s rock band, Wham! led by George Michaels released this holiday classic in 1984. Interestingly, Wham! released this song to attempt to earn a number one spot on the UK Christmas Charts, unfortunately for Wham!, that went to the next artist on the list.

7. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band-Aid This holiday favorite beat out Wham!’s “Last Christmas” on the UK Christmas Charts for the No. 1 spot, as it was released the same year in 1984.

6. “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey Released in 1994, this contemporary Christmas song is a change-up from all the traditional ones. Carey’s song also holds the No. 1 spot on Billboards Top 100 Christmas songs list, as well as FUSE’s top 35 Christmas song lists. The song is the most downloaded Christmas song of all time.

5. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee Released in 1964, Lee’s song is perfect while decorating the family Christmas tree. With the fourth most digital downloads of any Christmas single, Lee recorded this song when she was only 13-years-old.

Holiday Traditions 12 Thanksgiving 2018 4. “The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You)” by Nat King Cole Cole’s song is a classic that has been covered by dozens of other artists over the years. Originally released in 1946, the song was written during “a blistering hot summer in an effort to stay cool by thinking cool,” according to writer, Mel Torme.

3. “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms Released in 1957, Helm’s version of the song has been enjoyed by many throughout the years.

2. “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives Perhaps one of the most upbeat Christmas song, Ives’ 1965 Christmas anthem is a must-hear during the holidays and is largely enjoyed by every holiday-lover.

1. “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby Crosby’s “White Christmas” is the biggest selling Christmas song of all time. First performed publicly in 1941, the song won an Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy Hall of Fame award.

Holiday Traditions 13 Thanksgiving 2018 Holiday Season Events Putnam County Saturday, Nov. 24 GLANDORF — e Village of Glandorf will kick o the holiday season when they light up their park on Saturday, Nov. 24, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Santa will serve as the evening’s special celebrity guest and will visit with children of all ages. Other entertainments, as well as food, will also be available. Once lit, visitors to the park are invited to stay in their vehicles and drive through the park to view the various displays sponsored by local businesses and organizations.

Sunday, Nov. 25 OTTAWA — e Village of Ottawa will host the annual Welcome Santa parade on Sunday, Nov. 25. Sponsored by the Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce, parade participants will line up along the Ohio Defense Logis- tics property at 1:30 p.m. en, at 2 p.m., the parade will travel west from Waterworks Park along Main Street, turn north on Oak Street, and then east on Fourth Street, ending in the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church parking lot. As in years past, post parade activities will take place in Otta- wa’s municipal parking lot at the corner of Main and Oak Streets. Activi- ties include photo opportunities and visits with Santa, treat bags for children, wagon rides, and other entertainments and refreshments. Elite Interiors GILBOA — Gilboa’s Christmas in the Park, held an- nually at the Gilboa Fire Station, will take place on Sunday, Nov. 25. Beginning with the traditional lighting of the park at 6 p.m., celebrants will then congre- gate at the re station for a community meal and visits with Santa Claus. Donations of non-perishable food items, to be passed along to the Ottawa Food Pantry, are welcome.

COLUMBUS GROVE — Grove’s Memorial Park will Chic Retail Space offering once again serve as the venue for the village’s annual Luxurious Home Decor as well as Window Christmas in the Park on Sunday, Nov. 25. Santa is Treatments, Accent Furniture, Custom Furniture, Wall Treatments, Lighting, Accessories, & Much More! scheduled to arrive at 6 p.m., a er which the various Schedule your in-home consulations displays will be lighted. Jointly sponsored by Colum- with Joanne Thatcher! bus Grove’s Volunteer Fire Department and Chamber of Commerce, the event will feature visits with San- HOURS: ta, carol singing and other musical entertainments, Tue-Wed 11-5 Thu 11-6, the Tap On Wood dancers, and a veritable banquet Fri 10-6 Sat 10-2 of chili, hot dogs, cookies, treat from Santa and hot 103 W. Main St., Van Wert chocolate. e event is free and open to the public. 419-968-2732 Holiday Traditions 14 Thanksgiving 2018 Gingerbread Makes the Perfect Holiday Treat e holiday season is synonymous with many things, including family gatherings, shopping, elaborate lighting displays, and Santa Claus. For foodies, this time of year is the perfect opportunity to indulge one’s love of baked goods. Between o ce parties and gatherings with family and friends, it’s hard to avoid baked treats come the holiday season. Perhaps no baked good is more closely linked to the holidays than gingerbread, an indulgence many people enjoy only around Christmas- time. Holiday hosts or those who want to bring a dessert to their next holiday gathering can whip up this recipe for “Sticky Choc- olate Gingerbread” from Maxine Clark’s “Chocolate: Deliciously Indulgent Recipes for Chocolate Lovers” (Ryland, Peters & Small).

Sticky Chocolate Gingerbread 2 medium eggs, beaten (Makes an 8-inch cake) 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda 21⁄3 cups dark molasses 2 tablespoons milk, warmed 6 ounces dark chocolate (60 to 70 percent cocoa A pinch of salt solids), grated * Extra-large crystallized ginger pieces, to 13⁄4 cups all-purpose our scatter (optional) 2 teaspoons ground ginger A deep 8-inch square cake pan or 8 x 6 x 5 ounces whole pieces preserved stem ginger, 3-inch oval cake pan drained and roughly chopped 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, so ened 1⁄2 cup plus 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar, si - ed (to remove lumps)

Preheat the oven to 325 F. Grease and line the base and sides of the cake pan with nonstick parchment paper. Put the molasses in a pan and heat gently until hot, but do not allow it to boil. Remove the pan from the heat and add the chocolate. Stir until melted. Si the our, ground ginger and salt together in a bowl. Add the stem ginger and toss it around in the our until every piece is coated. Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl. Beat in the eggs, then the molasses and chocolate mixture and nally the our mixture. Dissolve the baking soda in the milk and gradually beat this into the batter. Pour into the prepared cake pan, scatter with the crystallized ginger, if using, and bake for 45 minutes. Re- duce the oven temperature to 300 F and bake for another 30 minutes. (If using the oval pan, cook for about 45 minutes at the higher temperature, then about one hour at the lower temperature, as it will be deeper.) A metal skewer inserted into the center should come out clean. Let cool for ve minutes in the pan, then turn out onto a wire rack and let cool completely. When cold, store in an airtight container for at least a couple of days to mature and become sticky. Don’t worry if it sinks a bit in the middle — this is normal.

Holiday Traditions 15 Thanksgiving 2018 Holiday Lights at Fairgrounds Raises Money for 4-Hers

BY COLIN KRIEGLE News Correspondent [email protected]

VAN WERT – One of the community’s favorite summertime celebration spots, the Van Wert County Fairgrounds, is about to transition into a twinkling winter wonderland as the Van Wert County 4-H Exchange Club is setting up for this year’s drive-thru Christmas lights display, which opened on Wednesday, Nov. 21 from 6-9 p.m. A er opening night, the event runs ursday-Sunday nights from Nov. 22 to Dec. 9, then every day from Dec. 13 to Dec. 25 from 6-9 p.m. is year’s show marks the 11th year H.G. Violet Equipment of the light show. In 2007, the event start- 2103 North Main St ed with only 13 displays and 500 vehicles Delphos , OH 45833 drove through. is year’s show has 110- Ph 419-695-2000 www.hgviolet.com plus displays and the event is expected to host 3,500 vehicles. Exhibits are themed around the holidays and are supplied by local businesses, individuals, churches and clubs. e advisor for the group, Jay Gam- ble, and the kids who work nearly 36 hours to put the display together, are extremely pleased to see the growth of the event, and would love to see it remain an a ordable seasonal activity. “Myself, the kids, and the other advisors just feel like this can be a great community event that is a low cost and can be a family tradition year a er year,” Gamble said. (Continued on page 17.)

Holiday Traditions 16 Thanksgiving 2018 Many, however, are not aware what the proceeds of the event are used toward. e proceeds from this event, as well as two pork dinner events, go toward the money needed to fund trips to work with other 4-H exchange clubs. Some of the states the club has traveled to include Kansas, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Montana. is year’s group traveled to Boise, Idaho. To travel, the members pay only for checked baggage, insurance, and any souvenirs they may want. e Club pays for meals and the main travel expenses. e event also funds other 4-H Exchange Clubs when they visit Ohio. e event has been able to grow over the years thanks to generosity of local businesses and donated displays from the Baughman family of Paulding County. “I think this year we’re going to have ve new displays,” said Gamble. “ e Baughman family donated some more to us and they’ve really helped us grow over the years.” e car drive-thru is not the only experience available. Santa Claus stops by every Saturday night of the event. Also, on Dec. 7 and 8, guests can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the lights for $7 per car load. Prices are $5 per carload and $25 for oversized vehicles/buses. For those who can’t get enough of the fascinating displays, a $10 decal pass for unlimited trips will be available, while supplies last. Follow and “like” the event on Facebook by searching “4-H Exchange Club Holiday Light Show.”

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Holiday Traditions 19 Thanksgiving 2018 Mounts Discovers Santa Claus to be a G d Friend in Mans eld BY JIM LANGHAM News Correspondent [email protected] VAN WERT – Hearth and Home Nursing Facility resident Carol Mounts discovered early in childhood that Santa Claus was not only a good friend to her, personally, but also to her parents. “Santa Claus brought the tree to us and put it up,” said Mounts, in referring to one of her most pleasant dreams of childhood. “When I got up in the morning the tree was decorated and the gi s were under the tree.” “Mom and dad were of modest means by today’s standards,” said Mounts, who was born in 1933 in Mans eld, near the end of the Great Depression. “Dad worked at Westinghouse and mom was a stay-at-home mom.” Without question, her favorite all-time gi was a Shirley Temple doll. “I played with her until she fell to pieces,” said Mounts. “Both of my parents passed when I was young,” continued Mounts. “My mother dealt with cancer. My mother’s sister lived here (Van Wert) and never had children. She wanted me to come live with them. I was an only child. I went to grade school and high school in Mans eld. A er that things changed.” Mounts moved to Van Wert and lived with her aunt and uncle, Helen and Harry Walter. Harry was the manager for City Loan Company at the time and her Aunt Helen worked in the Van Wert County Courthouse. One of Mounts’ most special memories of Christmas was the fact that her mother always had her family to their house for Christmas dinner. “My mother was the oldest of six children. Her father and mother both came from overseas, Austria and Poland,” observed Mounts. “On my dad’s side, his fam- For all of your ily came from Germany. I still have the passport that allowed them to come over here.” audio and video Mounts said that her mother had come through the needs heart of the Great Depression. For several years, all her Home mother received for Christmas was an orange, as did tVs many other children of the time. Auto Surround “She said that she always called it her Christmas remote Sound orange,” said Mounts. Starts Mounts said that even though the traditions of whole Home audio Sound Christmas have changed and are usually encumbered with much expense, one thing is still the same. Video Surveillance “It’s not the gi and it’s monetary worth that mat- ters,” said Mounts. “It is family, friends and all of the LocaLLy owned and operated people that make Christmas special that are the real gi s. at is what I really look forward to each year.” 419.238.4345 1196 westwood dr., Van wert, ohio

20 Holiday Traditions Thanksgiving 2018 Santa Made Personal Christmas Eve Visit to Poling Home BY JIM LANGHAM News Correspondent [email protected]

VAN WERT – Van Wert’s June Taylor didn’t always know where Santa Claus was on Christmas Eve, but there was at least one place she knew about where he always stopped by – her home, that of her parents, Mildred and Delas Poling. “Santa Claus always came by our place on Christmas Eve,” said Taylor, who attended Pleasant School located west of Van Wert. “We always had Santa every Christmas Eve. My aunts and un- cles came and Santa would bring the gi s.” A er graduation from Van Wert High School, she worked for Ohio Power Company for ve and a half years. However, her marriage to Harlan Taylor was the end of that working stent. “When you were a woman and you worked there, you had to quit your job,” said Taylor. “ at was 60-some years ago. We had four children.” One thing that still stands out in Taylor’s mind is the aroma of oyster stew, the annual Christ- mas meal that was served every Christmas Eve. Taylor said she doesn’t quite remember what she thought of the stew but she liked the fact that it immediately preceded the arrival of Santa with the gi . ese days Taylor said that she can’t positively identify the “reality” of who Santa was each year, but she does know that it was a neighbor and that they traded o to be Santas for each other’s get-togethers. “Any present we got we got on Christmas Eve,” said Taylor, who was born in July of 1926. To this day, Taylor said that she is amazed at the beautiful gi s her parents came up with, espe- cially since it was during the Great Depression. “I always got a dress, a pair of shoes and some out ts,” said Taylor. “I don’t know how they did it. I know that they really worked hard. We opened our gi s a er Santa came.” Another treat Taylor recalls is “baked stu ” such as pies, cakes and Christmas cookies. e following day, Christmas Day, Taylor’s grandparents, U.S. Polling and Anne Polling came to spend the day. “ at was Christmas day and we had an old-fashioned Christmas dinner with them,” said Taylor. at included meat, potatoes, veg- etables and various dessert goodies, she said. “ e thing that meant the most to me about Christmas is the fact that we all got together,” said Taylor. “It wasn’t the ‘stu ’ but the people that made Christmas holiday special for u s .”

Holiday Traditions 21 Thanksgiving 2018 BY NANCY SPENCER DHI Media Editor Delphos Christmas Tr Fes val [email protected]

DELPHOS — Nestled among the retail and restaurants of Downtown Delphos is one of the jewels of the city: the Delphos Canal Commission Museum. From Nov. 24-Dec. 15, the museum will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland lled with more than 100 Christmas trees and other holiday decorations for its Celebrate Christmas event. Since 1999, the museum has opened its doors to local groups, families and individuals to participate in the annual Christmas tree festival. Museum trustees also decorate more than 60 trees. Tree decor can range from traditional Christ- mas fare to club themes to items for the Delphos Community Christmas Project. One of the favorite displays each year is a nativity set made by Gerhard Laudick (b. 9-26-1853, d. 5-19-1912) for his grand- child’s rst Christmas. Richard C. Mueller (b. 9-23-1911, d. 12-02-1993) was the rst child of Gerhard’s daughter, Clara Gertrude Laudick and Arthur “Art” Mueller. Gerhard died 8 months a er Richard was born. e original lighting for the crib was with coal oil lamps but it was converted to electricity around 1923. Some of the little gurines actually date from 1888. is nativity set has been a cherished part of the Mueller family’s Christmas for 100 years and they choose to display it at the museum each year so that others may enjoy it. Another item which has a long history is the feather tree, which is usually made out of green-dyed goose feathers. e trunk of the tree was a plain wooden rod and the branches were made of sti wire that had the feathers were wrapped around them. Red berries or candle holders were placed at the ends of the branches. Because of the danger of candles, these trees had more space between their branches than today’s Christmas trees. One visitor at the museum to comment that it looked like a “Charlie Brown” tree. e earliest feather trees in America were brought by German immigrants so it is not surprising that the museum has one in its possession.

Holiday Traditions 22 Thanksgiving 2018 Give the gift of great food! 1058 W. Main Street And what would Christmas be without a sleigh? e one at the museum is a one- Van Wert, Ohio 45891 horse open sleigh donated by the families of Richard Kimmet and Arthur Hoersten. is 419-238-5235 style of sleigh is also known as a “cutter” because it is lightweight, has gracefully-curved runners and a decorative body and usually holds only two people. On the second oor amongst the new military display is the POW/MIA tree and more are nestled in between the history of the city. e tree festival is open from 1-4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday and 9 a.m. to noon every ursday from Nov. 24 through Dec. 15. ere is no charge for admission; donations are gratefully accepted. Celebrate Christmas will also be o ered from 5-8 p.m. on Nov. 30 during the Ki- wanis Hometown Christmas. e museum is located at 241 N. Main St.

Holiday Traditions 23 Thanksgiving 2018 30 Ways to Celebrate a Merry Month e holiday season begins in late November and runs through New Year’s Day. It is marked by various gatherings of friends and family, decadent foods, cocktails, traveling, and gi exchanges. e National Retail Federation says consumers will spend an average of $967 during the holiday season. However, the joy of the holidays also is about all of the memorable experiences that tend to make the season so beloved. With that in mind, here are 30 ways to make the holiday season that much more merry. 1. Visit with an elderly or housebound neighbor and share conversation. 2. Donate gently used toys to a children’s hospital. 3. Research the history of the holiday and share it with people you care about. 4. Make handmade Christmas tree ornaments. 5. Donate money to a charity or other good cause. 6. Encourage “pay it forward” movements in your community. Start by doing something simple like buying a co ee for a complete stranger. 7. Feed birds facing the cold, winter weather. 8. Take a ride or walk around the neighborhood to look at decorated houses. 9. Make a re in a re pit in the yard and toast marshmallows while sipping hot chocolate. 10. Binge watch holiday movies. 11. Attend the concert of a children’s choir. 12. Help a friend decorate his or her home. 13. Host a tree-trimming party. 14. Schedule a day for baking cookies. 15. Sing Christmas carols at a nursing home. 16. Put together care packages of items and send them to troops overseas. 17. Share the holidays with a military family whose spouse is in service and can’t make it home. 18. O er to shop for someone who is homebound due to age, a chronic illness or injury. 19. Visit a large city to look at Christmas window displays. 20. Buy and hang real mistletoe … and use it. 21. Make a new friend and invite him or her to a holiday party for the rst time. 22. Babysit a newborn so his or her parents can get errands done or just catch up on rest. 23. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. 24. Share the religious traditions of your holiday with someone of a di erent faith. 25. If weather permits, go sledding, build a snowman or have a snowball ght. 26. Share favorite memories at family holiday dinners. 27. Remember a deceased loved one with a special tribute. 28. Construct a gingerbread house. 29. Teach someone how to make a cherished family recipe. 30. Surprise a distant relative with an impromptu visit.

Holiday Traditions 24 Thanksgiving 2018 47th annual Christmas Carol Sing PANDORA — Riley Creek United Methodist Church invites the region to its Annual Christmas Carol Sing on Sunday, December 2, at 7:30 p.m. In its 47th year, the program features readings from Scripture about Jesus’ birth, congregational singing of many carols, and special solo and ensemble performances, both vocal and instrumental, by the Pandora Unit- ed Methodist Church Choir, Ottawa Saints Peter and Paul Choir, and other musical guests. In keeping with tradition, the event is capped by the congregational singing of Silent Night, accompanied by a candle lighting ceremony. Built in 1882 and nestled on the banks of Riley Creek, the church is located southeast of Ottawa and northwest of Pandora at the intersection of Putnam County Roads M and 7-L (7102 County Road M, Ottawa OH 45875), across from Putnam Stone Co. e Rev. Duane Kemerley is pastor.

Season Greetings Cash for all Scrap Metal Aluminum Cans - Copper Brass - Steel - Cars - Batteries Appliances Catalytic Converters & Aluminum Wheels Metal & Vehicle Pickup Available Roll off BoxeS AvAilABle Ohio City Auto Inc. Fortman’s Crescent 11408 Snyder Rd., Ohio City, Ohio 45874 Linen Service, LLC 1-800-387-2401 223 N. Market St. Van Wert, Ohio 419.238.3520 Holiday Traditions 25 Thanksgiving 2018 Holiday Season Events Saturday, Dec. 8 Van Wert County Christmas Bake Sale and Bazaar Starting at 9 a.m. the CHP volunteers and Sew- Saturday, Nov. 24 ing for Hospice group will have gi items, holiday decoration and baked goods. is event is a Christmas Wonderland great way to purchase a gi for a loved one and At 7:30 p.m. Santa will make his way to the Nis- at the same time give to a future Hospice patient wonger Performing Arts Center to get Van Wert as all funds go to the Patient Care Fund. into the holiday spirit with a musical.

Friday, Nov. 30 Christmas with Michael McDonald At 7:30 p.m. spend the Christmas season with Gingerbread Junction Michael McDonald when he takes the Nis- e annual YWCA Gingerbread Junction will be wonger Performing Arts Center stage. held form 5 to 9 p.m. Session times are 5 p.m., 6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. Attendees will need to Sunday, Dec. 9 pre-register and will pay $15 per person prior to the Van Wert Area Performance of Handel’s Messiah night of the event. At 7 p.m. a biennial Christmas tradition returns to Van Wert when the performance of Handel’s Downtown Van Wert Tree Lighting Messiah in the sanctuary of First United Meth- Franklin Park will light up with the annual Van odist Church. One of the most important ele- Wert Tree Lighting. Co ee and hot cocoa will be ments of the performance is putting together a provided by Truly Divine and Santa Claus will be in great community chorus to sing all the wonder- attendance to greet children. e event takes place ful choruses of this musical masterpiece. from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16 Live Nativity All Is Calm Kick o the Christmas experience with the annual At 3 p.m. at the Niswonger Performing Arts Live Nativity Drive- ru at Jennings Road Church Center a story based on the Christmas truce of of Christ at 6:30 p.m. Stay in the comfort of your 1914 will make its way to the Van Wert stage. car as you drive into scenes representing the early Out of the violence would come silence, then a days of Jesus. Fierce Roman centurions, yelling inn- song. All Is Calm tells a remarkable true story, keepers, a bustling marketplace, lonely shepherds, told in the words and songs of the men who announcing angels, foreign kings….and a manger lived it. with new parents and a little baby!

Saturday, Dec. 1 Merry Christmas from Santa Day at Kenn-Feld Group our Family to Yours! Santa is coming to town from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grooming Available Kenn-Feld. All Breeds! All Sizes! Grooming • Training • Boarding e Nutcracker At 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Tchaikovsky’s famous Stop In Nutcracker Ballet will take the Niswonger Perform- Today! ing Arts Stage. Kathy Kaufman, Groomer/Trainer 1727 Rd L1, Ottawa, OH

419-604-1403 www.CountryK9Kennels.com 00300289 Holiday Traditions 26 Thanksgiving 2018 Riley Creek Pharmacy Invites you to: Girls Night Out! Thursday, Nov 29th, 4pm - 6:30pm Verhoff Machine & Welding, Inc. A Very Merry Christmas and Happy Join us at Riley Creek Pharmacy in Holidays from Our Family to Yours! Downtown Pandora for a night of fun! • Fabricating • CNC Punching • 25% off all gifts • Shearing • Press Forming • Refreshments and prizes • A gift for every lady • Stamping • Laser Cutting • Sign up to win a $50 gift card 419-596-3202 00300531 • Make a Christmas wish list

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Allen County Museum Christmas Tree Festival Delphos Canal Commission Ham and Bean Soup fundraiser Nov. 28 - Dec. 2 5-8 p.m. Nov. 30 Wed. and urs. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m. - e Delphos Canal Commission will once again be 8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; and Sun. 12 - 5 p.m. selling Ham & Bean Soup supper with cornbread for 620 W. Market St., Lima $4 during Hometown Christmas. Sales begin at 5 p.m. is year’s theme is “A Shiny New Christmas.” Over Drive or walk up to get your soup, we’ll be serving in 100 decorated Christmas Trees from community or- front of the Canal Museum at 241 N. Main St. ganizations will deck the halls of the Museum. e Christmas Tree Festival will feature “Evergreen” the ONU Holiday Spectacular talking ChristmasTree and tours of the decorated Nov. 30-Dec. 2 MacDonell House. ere will be daily demonstra- Friday, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; tions in the Log House as well as activities in the Sunday at 2 p.m. Children’s Discovery Center. Live entertainment Admission is $5. scheduled throughout each day. Over ow parking No holiday season is complete without the ONU Hol- is available at St. Rita’s Medical Center parking lot to iday Spectacular! It’s tailor made for the whole family. the immediate north of the Museum on High Street. From the toy soldiers to Santa to the lovely carols of Sponsored by Church Women United in the Lima the season, adults and children alike come away with Area, Johnny Appleseed Metro Park District, and the “holiday spirit.” Lavish sets and costumes. Tickets e Allen County Historical Society. available at all Kewpee Hamburger locations or contact Freed Center Box O ce at 419-772-1900. Delphos Canal Museum’s Celebrate Christmas Nov. 24-Dec. 15 every Saturday and Sunday from 1-4 Encore Theatre’s A Christmas Story p.m. and 9 a.m. to noon on ursdays and by spe- Nov. 30-Dec. 2 and Dec. 7-9 cial appointment. Celebrate Christmas will also be Friday and Saturday 8 p.m.; Sunday 2 p.m. o ered from 5-8 p.m. on Nov. 30 for the Kiwanis e theatrical version of the movie about Ralphie and Hometown Christmas. his quest for a Red Ryder Air Ri e for Christmas. All With over 100 trees plus Christmas embellishments the elements of the story are here. throughout, the museum takes on a festive air. For Admission: $15 adults, $12 senior citizens and high more information visit www.delphoscanalcommis- school and younger $10. sion.com Breakfast with Santa at the Dephos Public Library Delphos Kiwanis Hometown Christmas 10-11:30 a.m. Dec. 1 in the First Edition Building on First 6-8:30 p.m. Nov. 30 Street Kiwanis Club of Delphos is sponsoring “Hometown Kids can come eat donuts, get a goody bag and meet Christmas” in Downtown Delphos. Activities and Santa Claus. Registration is required by calling 419- entertainment start at 6 p.m. Open to the public. 695-4015. Santa Parade begins 6:30 p.m. on Main Street (between Second and Fourth streets). Free hot choc- 29th annual Apollo Christmas Craft Show olate and hotdogs next to Santa’s house on Second 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 1 Street. Free horse and wagon rides a er the parade. Join us for our annual Christmas Cra Show! Over 100 Contact: Cindy Metzger at cmetzger@ rst-fed.com cra ers with unique and quality cra s draw a large at- Delphos Canal Commission Ham and Bean Soup tendance of approximately 2,000 people. Food is avail- fundraiser able for purchase. Proceeds help fund the clubs at Apol- lo Career Center. Cra ers interested in a booth call 419-998-2908. Holiday Traditions 28 Thanksgiving 2018 Harrod Polar Express Handel’s “Messiah” at Bluffton University 2-4 p.m. Dec. 2 4 p.m. on Dec. 9 at Blu on University Free and open to the public. Come visit Santa and Mrs. Performance of Handel’s “Messiah”. Soloists are Dr. Claus inside our red caboose! Bring your own camera Helen Allen, soprano; Stephanie Schoenhofer, mez- to capture the special moment with Mr. & Mrs. Claus zo-soprano; Justin Berkowitz, tenor; and Lance Ash- from 2-4 p.m. e Railroad Heritage Park is located east more, baritone. e event is free and open to the of Lima on SR 309 for approximately 10 miles, and then public. A free-will o ering will be taken. turn south onto Napoleon Road for 2 miles. A Very Merry Dickens Christmas Grand Afternoon at the Delphos Public Library (Activity Room) 6 p.m. on Dec. 11 at Lima Public Library 4-5 p.m Dec. 3 Celebrate Christmas Dickens’ way, learn about Vic- Grandparents and their crandchildren are invited to torian traditions, and make a vintage tree ornament. this a ernoon of Christmas cra ing, snacks, and board Join us in the auditorium. Reservation required by games. Geared toward preschool-5th grade. calling 419-228-5113.

Carol of the King Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Celebration Tour 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Lima Civic Center 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 22 at the Lima Civic Center Carol of the King, e Irish Dance Christmas Spectac- eirs is one of the most distinctive and recognizable ular is led by former lead dancer from Michael Flatley’s sounds in the music industry. e four-part harmo- Lord of the Dance and founder of Two Step Produc- nies and upbeat songs of e Oak Ridge Boys have tions, Justin Boros. Two Step Productions also created spawned dozens of Country hits and a Number One the smash hit and fastest growing Irish dance show in Pop smash, earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and the U.S., Rhythm in the Night, e Irish Dance Spectac- ACM awards and garnered a host of other industry ular, which continues to tour every Spring and set re- and fan accolades. Every time they step before an au- cords across the country. Two Step Productions is now dience, the Oaks bring four decades of charted sin- bringing Irish dance and Christmas together to turn an gles, and 50 years of tradition, to a stage show widely age-old tradition into an exciting Irish dance Christmas acknowledged as among the most exciting anywhere. spectacular the entire family will enjoy! Tickets are $75/$54/$45/$35 and can be purchased Tickets are $18 and $26 and can be purchased online at online at www.limaciviccenter.com, by calling 419- www.limaciviccenter.com, by calling 419-224-1552 or 224-1552 or at the Lima Civic Center Box O ce. at the Lima Civic Center Box O ce. Lima Symphony - Dancing Queen - Music of ABBA Lima Symphony Orchestra’s Bells, Brass and Bows 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 31 at the Lima Civic Center 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Lima Civic Center Put on your platform shoes and ring in 2019 with Rediscover the joy and wonder of the season with our the sultry and enduring sounds of Disco,. Jeans ‘n beloved holiday concert. e Lima Symphony Chorus Classics breathes new life into timeless classics like will lend their magni cent voices as we perform a fes- “Mamma Mia,” “ e Winner Takes it All,” “Dancing tive and joyful program full of cherished holiday songs Queen” and many more! and carols. Tickets are $30 and $25 and can be purchased online at Tickets are $30 and $25 and can be purchased on- www.limaciviccenter.com, by calling 419-224-1552 or line at www.limaciviccenter.com, by calling 419-224- at the Lima Civic Center Box O ce. 1552 or at the Lima Civic Center Box O ce.

Holiday Traditions 29 Thanksgiving 2018 Hometown Christmas BY NANCY SPENCER DHI Media Editor offers evening of festivities [email protected]

DELPHOS — e holidays are fast approaching and one of the kick-o events in Delphos will be the rst-annual Kiwanis Hometown Christmas on Nov. 30. e downtown activities and entertainment this year are fully sponsored by the Kiwanis as a way of saying “thank you” to the businesses and individuals in the community for supporting the club throughout the year at its various fundraisers and projects. e Delphos Canal Commission will serve up their delicious Ham and Bean Supper at the EMS building beginning at 5 p.m. for only $4 a dinner. e Canal Commission Museum will also be open for the annual Christmas Tree Festival until 8 p.m. e Delphos Public Library will also start their events at 5 p.m. with sugar cookie decorating and the Dicken’s Christmas Village on display. Entertainment and activities downtown will start at 6 p.m. Costumed characters will be on hand for photos and interaction with the crowd. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be welcomed to town atop a re truck with a parade starting at 6:30 p.m. from the Delphos Her- ald parking lot, proceeding down Main Street and ending at Santa’s house in front of the First Financial Drive through. All are welcome to participate in the parade. Line up is at 6:15 p.m. in the Delphos Herald Parking lot near Main and Fourth streets. Santa will light the o cial Christmas Tree at his house at the end of the parade and begin to see children to learn their Christmas wishes. Santa will be available until every child has been seen. Mrs. Claus will head over the Dienstberger House for storytime. Free refreshments will be available and Santa will have his sleigh and one of his reindeer for the kids to see. Parents and grandparents are urged to bring their cameras to take pictures with the reindeer and sleigh. Free horse and wagon rides and pony rides will be available beginning a er the parade and Schrader Realty will o er Santa workshop with Letters to Santa at their o ce on Main Have a safe and happy Street. Lavish Salon and Spa will “Light Up Christmas” with carni- holiday season from your val games and gizmos; at Westwood Behavioral Center children can decorate Santa hats and enjoy mini holiday cupcakes and Grinch punch; At Home Realty will have pictures with friends at Lee Kinstle their reindeer, cookies and candy canes; e Grind will have free hot chocolate and cookies; and H&R Block will have hot apple cider. Dick Clark Realty will also o er holiday activities. Kids can sign up to win a bicycle at the Delphos Area Chamber of Commerce o ce during the evening. Cross o people on your Christmas list with a pool pass from the Delphos Municipal Swimming Pool. Passes will be on sale for $35 at the municipal building from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 30 and from 6-7 p.m. during Hometown Christmas. Activities will wrap up around 8:30 p.m. unless children are still waiting to see Santa or ride in the horse-drawn wagon. Additional Santa House hours are 6:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 and 12. Letters can be dropped o any time at the Santa House in the special Santa mail slot. LEE KINSTLE GM It’s an Old Fashioned Hometown Christmas in downtown SALES AND SERVICE Delphos on Nov. 30.

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