Places to go and things to see by Gypsy Bev

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Cambridge Lions Roar at 50th Anniversary Show

Pop the champagne! Throw the confetti! Fifty years have gone by as fast as a spring breeze. We have experienced a terrorist attack, the birth of the internet, cell phones, and a global pandemic. Now it’s time to celebrate the 50th Golden Anniversary Cambridge Lions Club Music and Comedy Show on March 19, 20, and 21 at 7:30 in Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center. You’re sure to enjoy an evening filled with music, and laughter for only $10 a ticket. Good times never seemed so good.

The show began in 1974 when the Lion’s Club made a substantial pledge to Guernsey Memorial Hospital for the construction of a new patient tower. There was only one concern. How could they raise the money to meet their pledge? A long-time fund raiser of selling light bulbs door to door was no longer fruitful.

Bob Jonard brought the idea of a minstrel show to Cambridge Lions Club when he moved here from Warsaw.

Robert Jonard, “The Father of the Cambridge Minstrel Show”, had just relocated with General Telephone to Cambridge from Warsaw, Ohio. The Warsaw Lions Club had been hosting an annual Minstrel Show for several years. What was a Minstrel? Bob explained it was a group of entertainers who performed songs, dances and comic routines.

J.O. and Frances Mehaffey played instrumental roles in that first show.

This opportunity became a hot topic of debate in the club. Several leaders were adamant it would never work. Bob found a listening ear in Ron Guthrie. Soon J.O. and Frances Mehaffey became strong supporters with J.O. helping with antics like his “Ode to the Outhouse,” while Frances did make-up, special wigs, and choreography. This team put together the first show after many nights around a kitchen table. It was simply called A Minstrel Show.

Bob and Ann Jonard were active members of the skits and the chorus.

Where would the talent come from this group of Lions? Bob found it by taking Lion members out of their comfort personalities and having them perform. Some sang or told jokes while others took part in some hijinks. Many familiar faces appeared in that first two-day event at the State Theater. They included Jim Caldwell, Bill Channel, Bob Jonard, Andre Odebrecht, Commissioner J.O. Mehaffey, Judge Henderson, Wayne McCracken, Harold Knouff, Howard Cherry, Bill Lilienthal, Jack Taylor and yes – Ron Guthrie.

Dave Wilson and Ron Guthrie are the only two who have been in all 50 shows.

Two of the young men in that first show have appeared in all 50 shows. Ron Guthrie and Dave Wilson are dedicated Lions and add fun to the shows.

Ron Guthrie at the age of 90 is “King of the Front Line” by telling jokes (some good and some bad) and singing solos or duets. Ron has been an Endman for 44 years and was Interlocutor for three shows. In those early days, his State Farm Insurance office was a primary outlet for tickets to the show.

This ad appeared in the Jeffersonian for their first show back in 1974.

Dave Wilson was one of those young people just out of high school and part of the Faith Methodist Church High School chorus. They led the musical portion of the show. Sheryl Eynon and John Voorhies were also part of that group that appeared in the first show and are back performing again. Many remember Dave as being the voice of AVC before he became a County Commissioner. He has been an Endman for 44 years, an interlocutor one year, and the powerful voice that closes the show.

The original chorus was composed of many of the Faith Methodist Church High School Chorus.

While funny jokes and skits filled the State Theater during that first show, music was still the main feature and still is today. At that time, the chorus only had a mimeographed copy of the music and made up their own harmony. Some of the songs included A Bird in a Gilded Cage, Daddy Sang Bass, Sweet Gypsy Rose, and Mammy.

Frances Mehaffey wore this dress in 1974 with a group performing the Charleston.

The Flappers danced their ways into people’s hearts with the Charleston and the then popular Ballin’ the Jack. Over the years, the can-can, black light dance specials, tap dancing, and line dancing have entertained the crowd. You never know what to expect at a Lions Club Show.

Howard Cherry and Dave Wilson were well dressed for that first show in 1974.

Then and now, the Endmen and Interruptions provide laughter with their own brand of humor and often dress in outrageous costumes as well. No shots are barred as they are aimed at local politicians, business people, and innocent members of the audience. People still remember State Patrolmen Bob Bistor and “Chicken George” Ed Barborak doing “Who’s On First?”

The Interruptions Crew, composed of Kim Conrath, Steve Gierhart, Mike Carpenter, Mike Edwards, Matt Dolan and Jon Hudon for many years, did just that. They interrupted the show with skits like Paper Dance, Olympic Swimmers, Rubber Balloons, and Mike Edwards doing the news. All brought laughter from the audience.

Cheri Harding, Charlie Steel, and Janice Jonard Steel sang together in 1976.

Over the years the show themes moved from a Dixieland style repertoire to music that blended with changing crowds. In 2005, to become politically correct, the show was rebranded as a Variety show. Three years later it became what it is known by today as the Music and Comedy Show.

Amy Hudson, Emmy Wilson, Cheri Harding, and Barbara Simmons have fun in the alto section.

Now the focus for the Cambridge Lions Club is to help the blind and visually impaired. These Knights for Sight use all the proceeds from the show to purchase eye glasses and needed eye treatments to area individuals. Because of the great support from the community through attendance or community sponsorships, over $600,000 has been raised to provide care for those who need eye exams, eye glasses, diabetic supplies, and more. Your ticket purchase goes for a great cause.

Get your tickets for this special 50th Golden Anniversary Show to be performed at Pritchard-Laughlin Civic Center on March 19, 20, 21 at 7:30 each evening. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Civic Center, saved for pick up, or saved at the “Will Call” window. Call 740-439-7009 for ticket information.

Karen Boyer directed the chorus in the 2025 Lions Club Show as well.

Many of the songs will be so familiar you will want to sing along. The show features director Karen Boyer with John Voorhies arranging the music. Most will recall songs like Country Roads Take Me Home, Sweet Caroline, and Life is a Highway.

Get ready to enjoy an evening filled with familiar songs, lots of laughter and some surprises along the way as you Hear Those Lions Roar.

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Cambridge, Family Fun, Music, Ohio, Organizations, Uncategorized

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Salt Fork Festival Mardi Gras Culinary Challenge

The Salt Fork Arts and Crafts Festival is a beloved tradition in Southeastern Ohio. The 56th annual Salt Fork Arts and Crafts Festival will be held in Cambridge City Park Friday August 14 – Sunday August 16. Even though August is many months and degrees away from today, the Festival committee is actively planning this year’s event. The team, led by new director Jessica Martin, is putting together an event to feature amazing visual and performing artists guaranteed to please the entire family.

Jan Wilson and Stephanie Bridwell prepare for the Mardi Gras celebration.

If you want to get a taste of the Festival literally, you can join the Salt Fork Festival krewe at the Mardi Gras themed Culinary Challenge at the Cambridge Country Club. This fun event is held annually on Fat Tuesday (February 17). Mardi Gras, French for “Fat Tuesday” is a celebration of feasting and merrymaking on the day before the Christian Lenten season begins on Ash Wednesday. Traditionally, this is a time for indulgence before 40 days of fasting and sacrifice leading up to Easter.

Rusty Parsons from The Community Bank won People’s Choice in 2025.

It features local chefs competing in the categories of Appetizers, Side Dish, Main Dish, and Desserts. A panel of three celebrity judges will pick the winners, and the audience will select the People’s Choice winner.

Greg Fowler won first place in the Main Dish category at the 2025 Culinary Challenge

There will be a silent auction, 50/50, and lots of amazing food for a good cause. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased online at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2026-culinary-challenge.

These outstanding artists won awards during the 2025 Salt Fork Festival.

The festival seeks to display outstanding artists and artisans in a variety of media. Each year approximately 90 artists are on display. You can find a variety of artists working in media such as painting, photography, ceramics, fiber, metalwork, and jewelry to name a few. Artists will find an appreciative audience in Cambridge and will be eligible to compete for a number of awards. Applications are now available via Zapplication or by e-mailing sfacfdirector@gmail.com. Applications are being accepted through June 30.

The Marketplace is a great place to pick up some tasty Ohio products to take home with you.

Another popular element of the festival is the Marketplace tent where festival-goers can purchase Ohio-made goodies and other natural products including honey and flowers. Approximately 10 vendors join us for this fun event. You can visit the Salt Fork website for more information: https://www.saltforkfestival.org/market-place

Mark your calendar for August 14-16 to attend the 56th annual Salt Fork Arts and Crafts Festival in the beautiful Cambridge City Park. This is a juried festival with only top-quality works of art on display. You will also enjoy a wide range of entertainment, a variety of concessions to satisfy your hunger or thirst, a fantastic Student Art Tent, Heritage Arts Tent, many crafts for the youngsters, and some surprises along the way. There’s something for everyone.

We hope you will join the Salt Fork Festival krewe at the Culinary Challenge as it is their only fund raiser of the year to keep the festival tradition continuing. It’s a fun evening of tasting creative creations from our local chefs and visiting with friends. Perhaps you’ll spot a silent auction item that you could easily use. Get your ticket online sometime soon. If you like, put on some festive Mardi Gras garments in purple, green, and gold, a sparkly headdress, and of course necklaces, to add to the spirit of the evening. Let the good times roll!

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Art, Cambridge, Festivals, Just for Fun, Ohio, Organizations, Uncategorized

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Library Book Clubs for Everyone

It’s always a good day to read a book.

Cody Addy, Executive Director,  Janet Tedrow, and Brei Fechuch welcome people to the Newcomerstown Public Library at the large stack of books outside.

Almost every library has a book club where readers all read the same book each month, then meet to share their interpretations and opinions. This is an enjoyable activity and gives purpose to reading. Cody Addy, Executive Director of the Newcomerstown Public Library, has several book clubs organized in their library for groups of all ages.

A table just inside the lobby reminds readers of the monthly adult book club selection.

Some book clubs are very specific like the one in Newcomerstown, where they have the Cookbook Club. While the club had a break in activity, it returned in 2025. This Cookbook Club is basically a book club for the ladies who love to try new recipes, socialize, and have good dishes to sample. This is an adult club for those 18 years and older and meets in the Library Annex from 4-5 on the third Wednesday of the month. It is led by Brei Fechuch, Public Services Manager.

The Library Annex served as the Newcomerstown Library beginning in 1961.

Each date has a theme where participants choose recipes from the given theme and share their experience. Participants need to bring a prepared dish and the recipe to the meeting. They have simple themes, such as “Southern Cooking,” where the idea was to make a dish that originates from the south to more challenging themes such as our “Red, White, and Blue” in July.

In August, their theme was “A Taste of Your Name,” where attendees prepared a dish that starts with the first letter of their first name. Participants have so much fun with this program that they have asked to do it weekly! Stop by the library and register for these interesting and tasty meetings filled with bunches of goodies.

Janet Brown conducted a workshop making Fire Cider.

Sometimes, the group has a special speaker or workshop that will give them ideas on subjects related to food and herbs. One meeting each person in the group made their own Fire Cider, a natural remedy for colds. Another workshop was Eating the Mediterranean Way.

They also have a Teen Recipe Club (Grades 6-12), which meets after school at 4:00 on Wednesday. Brie and Kalli Fox work together on this program. The initial idea for this club was to teach teens a skill that they could utilize throughout their life. They learn about and prepare new recipes, then sample their creations. Here the library provides all the ingredients and each teen makes their own dishes following the given recipe. They use a microwave or air fryer to prepare their dishes.

It’s a chance to learn how to prepare simple snacks at home or prepare something when parents happen to be away or busy. Even though the recipes are simple, Library Director Cody Addy feels that it leads the teens to more responsibility, self-reliance, and ultimately helps support their growth into adulthood.

In the past, they have also held a Gardening Club, where the kids and teens learn how to garden from seed to harvest, utilizing a garden at the library. Once harvested, the kids got to take the food home to their families. Teaching the children and teens new skills brings joy to the staff.

Brei Fechuch and Janet Tedrow make plans for their next book club.

Book Clubs are also held at the Junior and Senior High Schools. They choose a book, read a certain portion of the book for the following meeting, and then discuss the plot, characters, and sometimes play games relating to the story.

There is also a program, Library Club, at the West School involving their L.E.A.D. Afterschool Program. At this club, they read a book together and follow it up with a craft that reinforces what they have read in the book.

Their Adult Book Club has a comfortable setting to discuss their most recent book.

Of course, they also have a regular Book Club being led by Janet Tedrow, Public Relations and Program Manager, which meets from 1-2 pm on the second Tuesday of each month. The monthly book can be found on a table in the lobby, where you can check out the book or an audio version if you prefer.

For questions on any of these book clubs, call Janet or Brei at 740-498-8228. You can register in person or over the phone.

The present Newcomerstown Public Library is celebrating 25 years of service.

There’s a book related club for everyone here at the Newcomerstown Public Library. Check out the library in your area to find out all the wonderful possibilities they hold within their walls. If you like books, you’re sure to find something that will brighten your life.

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Authors, Ohio, Organizations, Uncategorized

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Paul Courtright Demonstrates Woodturning

Paul demonstrates his woodturning on You Tube.

Woodturning has been part of Paul Courtright’s life since he was in high school during shop class. At that time, he acquired a Sears lathe from his father, which had been handed down from his grandfather. Paul taught himself the basics of woodturning by working with the lathe and learning from his mistakes.

Over time the bearings on that lathe wore out. They first replaced the motor with a washing machine motor, but later he replaced the lathe with a Powermatic. He purchased a second lathe that he could move out to the drive way and turn outside in the sunshine.

Pepper Grinders are a popular item.

Paul grew up in a small farm town in northern Ohio. However, after high school, he moved to the Columbus area for college. There he discovered a local woodturning club, Central Ohio Woodturners (COW) and decided to join. Over the years, Paul has served as President and Vice President of COW and taught several wood turning demos at the COW meetings.

Paul was named Woodturner of the Year by the American Association of Woodturners.

He also joined the national organization, American Association of Woodturners (AAW). Because of his membership in both these organizations, he has attended many symposiums and events which taught him the do’s and don’t’s of woodturning and furthered his knowledge of the craft.

A cheese slicer is one of his most popular items.

Then, he started to accumulate an inventory and began selling his work at craft shows and festivals from March through December. He now attends around 20 shows a year throughout Ohio and surrounding states, where he sells his work and does woodturning demonstrations. He now has pieces in several states like FL, NY, CA, AZ, and SC as well as a few countries including Germany, South America, and Canada.

This birdhouse was made from a tree blown down in a storm. He makes use of everything!

Little wood goes to waste in Paul’s world. When a tree blows down, he might turn part of it into a bird house. Old 2’x4’s might become an American Flag. Other reclaimed lumber might end up in a beautiful cross Laser engraved with a Biblical saying using his xTool.

Paul received a People’s Choice Award for this lidded pinecone bowl.

Recently, he began trying something new by working with different mediums like resin and alternative items like pumpkin stems, corn cobs, and pinecones. A beautiful pinecone bowl won a People’s Choice Award recently at the Salt Fork Festival. Some of his popular items include cheese cutters, pepper mills, American flags, and ice cream scoops. There are still some things he has on his dream list. One of them is a working grandfather clock.

His flags are often made of discarded 2x4s. Nothing goes to waste!

Giving is part of his nature. He often gives small items to children that appear at the festivals…perhaps a whistle or small car. Frequently, he participates in the silent auction at Children’s Hospital. Before costs raised, he gave a pen to every veteran he met but now he has a special wooden object that he gives them.

Scrap wood is put to good use in this colorful vase.

He even has his own YouTube channel (Wood Chip Woodworking) as a way to teach and share his knowledge and skill. Paul tells others, “Woodturning might be the best stress reliever of this century.”

Paul’s ice cream scoops are made from laminated dyed plywood.

While wood, especially walnut, is his favorite thing, Paul also has a degree from OSU in Animal Science and Food Science. He has worked in the food industry with Abbott Labs in research and development of their products for around 20 years. He took a five-year break where he taught Food Science at OSU. Food is another passion of his but he also enjoys just being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and gardening.

His booth will be found at the Salt Fork Festival in August.

During the year, Paul also works on getting things ready for the various craft shows he attends. This year he plans to also demonstrate wood turning at his booth at the Salt Fork Festival. He also enjoys displaying his woodturning at the Paul Bunyan Festival in Old Washington in October.

Paul enjoys attending craft and art shows where he meets like-minded people, who have become great friends. This has allowed him to gain a lot of knowledge and experience in marketing his craft.

This American wooden cross is made from reclaimed lumber.

Today Paul lives in Westerville, Ohio. Woodturning has made him a happy guy. “I can take a piece of wood that someone has discarded or even threatened to throw into the fireplace, and I have made something out of it and presented it back to them. Just the smile and look of sheer wonder on their faces is priceless.”

Learn more about his work on his Facebook page, Paul Courtright or watch some of his woodturning videos. Of course, selling his work at craft shows also makes him pretty happy. He would enjoy having you visit him at the Salt Fork Festival August 8-10 at his booth Woodchip Woodworking. If you are lucky enough to have a piece he has created, you have something from his heart.

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Art, Festivals, Ohio, Organizations, Uncategorized

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Nurses Supporting Our Troops

Thank you to all who have served!

Acute Nursing Care in Cambridge has started a program on the local level to send Care Packages to people who are in the military and have families in the thirteen counties they serve.

Nurses at Acute Nursing Care have organized “Nurses Supporting Our Troops.”

This health care center provides professional services to clients in their homes to assist in day-to-day self-care activities. This surrounds them with family, friends, and the things that are important for that at home feeling. Nurses Supporting Our Troops give that same kind of home feeling to those who are away from home in the service by providing them with a touch of home.

Those in the military have always enjoyed letters from home to keep that connection with family and friends. So, a package from home has a special meaning as it shows the recipient that they are remembered. Care packages and letters are always a comfort to those away from home. Be sure to include a thank you so they realize their service is appreciated.

Shelly Long displays some of the things that go in the Care Packages.

Shelly Long, Acute Nursing Care owner/manager, got the idea early in 2023 when her nephew was being moved from Wright Patterson Air Force Base to serve in Kuwait. She knew life there was very hard for him and he was missing home so thought a care package from people he loved would lift his spirits. Their first care package was received in Kuwait in May and very much appreciated.

Matilda serves as the mascot for ANC.

After that, the staff at Acute Nursing Care thought this would be a great idea for more than just her nephew as many young people in the military experience a great change in their lives. Nurses Supporting Our Troops was organized locally to create Care Packages. Shipments are being made through international mailings along with Domestic Mail to active military bases. Nurses Supporting Our Troops has sent out care packages around the world.

Another recent recipient was an active duty Army Sargent of the Airborne Division, who was stationed in Poland. He received some flaming hot Cheetos in his care package.

To Celebrate D-Day on June 5, a care package was sent to an active soldier in the UK. Imagine the smile on the faces of those receiving a care package from home.

If you know of any active area person serving in the military that you would like to nominate for a care package, please email their full name, rank, and military base app address to York@acutenc.com.

This box for coffee drinkers was included in a Care Package.

If you would like to participate in helping with this program, some of the items that are easily shipped include: bags of chips, hygiene products (travel size preferred), individually packaged snack foods, lip balm, cooling towels, beef jerky (no pork products), and paper back books.

The only requirement they need for donations is the retail price of each item for customs and the exact number of items. Please do not send any items containing batteries or liquid as well as nothing that would melt in hot conditions.

York Hiestand, Human Resources, will answer all your questions.

Donations are being accepted at the next Senior Coalition meeting or at the office of Acute Nursing Care at 64979 Old Twenty One Road, Cambridge. You can drop things off Monday thru Friday 9-4 or call 740-439-5720 and they will pick them up at your convenience. Drop an email to York Hiestand, Human Resources, at york@acutenc.com for additional information.

Over 1,000 back-to-school items were donated to Cambridge Elementary.

Acute Nursing Care is active in the community and supports many local drives. Their participation in back-to-school drives for needed supplies was a huge success and donated over 1000 items at Cambridge Elementary. They have also helped organize baskets for seniors at home and in the nursing centers. Their caring goes beyond that done at Acute Nursing Care.

Nurses Supporting Our Troops realize that every day, service members put their lives on the line to keep us safe and free. Take a moment to let our troops know how much we appreciate their service and sacrif

Remember to send a letter with photos or a care package to friends or family that are serving our country in the military. If you can’t organize that, let Nurses Supporting Our Troops assist you. That little piece of home could be the highlight of their day.

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Cambridge, Ohio, Organizations, Uncategorized

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Carnegie Library Celebrates 120 years

The Andrew Carnegie Library on Steubenville Avenue holds many great memories since it has been around for 120 years. But did you know that Cambridge had previous libraries?

Today’s Downtown Branch of the Guernsey County District Public Library

Today’s library was preceded in 1832 by the Guernsey County Library and Reading Room. There were fifty charter members, all men, who felt a library gave evidence that the residents were people of intelligence.

In 1899, Cambridge Library Association held their first meeting. Col. Joseph Taylor, a prominent citizen, gave the upstairs of one of his buildings on Wheeling Avenue as space for the library. His wife organized the library effort.

Library cards cost $5 annually but only one book could be borrowed at a time for a period of two weeks. Overdue books were charged three cents a day. By 1901, all interested residents were given a free card to the library.

Andrew Carnegie

That same year, a committee from Guernsey County met with Andrew Carnegie in New York City. This was unusual as business with Carnegie was normally conducted by mail. Carnegie felt a library was the most important thing a community could have to benefit its people.

He remarked, “It was from my own early experience that I decided there was no use to which money could be applied so productive of good to girls and boys, who have good within them and ability and ambition to develop it, as the founding of a public library.”

This was an early picture of the Carnegie Library shortly after it was built.

On Jan. 22, 1902, the Carnegie Corporation sent a letter saying they would furnish $18,000 to erect a free library building at 800 Steubenville Ave since all the requirements had been met. Frank Packard became the architect with C.W. Dowling being the builder.

Once it was finished, the committee needed more funds to finish the interior and landscape the outside. Mr. Carnegie again provided those funds.

Books were very important to Carnegie from his childhood in Scotland and his teen years in Pennsylvania. Andrew Carnegie built 1,689 libraries throughout the United States and a total of more than 2,500 throughout the world.

The staff was presenting a book to a patron in 1950.

When the Carnegie Library opened in Cambridge emphasis was placed on religious and moral content. They initially purchased 1,334 volumes at $1300 with more books being donated by local families. The Women’s Book Club donated 208 books.

The second floor was to be used for community activities. Probably the first events held there were lectures. One series contained seven lectures about birds, while another was on boys’ temptations. During WWI, the Red Cross made bandages there. For about thirty years, the Cambridge City Band used it for their practice room.

Students were frequent visitors to the library in 1945.

In 1907, the first children’s furniture was purchased for the library since over half of the new borrowers were children. Story hours were developed for the children and Christmas parties with Santa were established.

Howard Finley donated his collection of historic books to the library with the stipulation that the collection bear his name. He also donated $6,227 for the library to use. The genealogy room is named in his honor today.

Cambridge City Band, who practiced here years ago, performed for a special library event.

By 1947, the library had expanded to serve the surrounding community. There were several branches and 49 deposit stations, most of them being at schools. Every six weeks, the library would take a box of 50 books to the area schools for students to read.

Today’s library staff helps with many special events in our community. Here they are dressed Victorian.

There were branches at Byesville, Cumberland, East Cambridge, Southside, Quaker City, Madison, and Senecaville . They existed until the library purchased their first bookmobile in 1956.

Today, Friends of the Library hold book sales in the basement of the Carnegie Library.

Friends of the Library was formed at a time when there was a need for more room at the library. Over the next thirty years, the Carnegie Library added a large addition, a new library was built in Byesville,and Crossroads Library became the relocation for administrative offices and technical services.

The annual Dickens Marathon Reading takes place in the main lobby.

By 1910, there were 2,200 people using the library of 6,332 books. By 1922, there were 2,745 using 9,123 books. In 2024, the Guernsey County Library has over 70,000 books plus many other resources.

Director Michael Limer is proud of their new Bookmobile which serves places around the county.

Michael Limer, present director, expresses well the connection with today’s library and the community. “I am really proud of all work the staff has done to help the library become an integral part of the community. Besides all the great things you would expect at a public library, I feel the staff has strived to excel in engaging with the public. From great programs and new services to our work with our many community partners, I am thrilled with how we reach out to serve the public, both within our walls and throughout the county. “

Libraries have been an important part of our community for many years and continue to be a place to find free reading materials, movies, and more.

Knowledge is free at the library, just bring your own container. Visit your library sometime soon!

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Cambridge, History, Ohio, Organizations, Uncategorized

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Grow & Show Garden Club Touches the Community in Many Ways

To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.

Creative ladies who enjoy gardening, flowers, and nature started the local Grow & Show Garden Club sixty-one years ago. As part of the Ohio Association of Garden Clubs, their purpose is to stimulate knowledge and love of gardening among members, increase their interest in knowing, growing, and sharing, and to promote protection of our environment.

Members of Show and Grow Garden Club prepare to decorate the Downtown Branch of the library for Christmas. Pictured are Kay Bennett, Kat Bennett, JoEllen Hayes, Marti Reed, and Sue Cowden.

One of their first projects was a flower show downtown. Area residents have fond memories of the beautiful Guernsey County Fair booths and the Christmas wreaths they used to display.

The committee working on the Scarecrow named Garden Goddess Antheia-Flora included Paula Shockley, Marti Reed, Kat Bennett, and JoEllen Hayes.

Today they enjoy decorating for many occasions. Just recently they took part in the Scarecrow on Parade Decorating Contest at the Great Guernsey Trail. They built a ten-foot-tall scarecrow with grasses for the skirt, a wreath collar, and a hat decorated with plants and flowers. After the contest, they moved the scarecrow to the Guernsey County Senior Center so it could still brighten someone’s day

They decorate two fireplaces each year with greenery and Christmas decor.

One project at this season of the year is decorating the Downtown Branch of the Guernsey County Library for Christmas with a Victorian touch to honor the popular Dickens Victorian Village. The library display continues through November and December.

Charles Dickens writes beside the Christmas tree decorated with handmade Victorian angels.

The tree is decorated with handmade Victorian angels. Marti Reed’s grandmother made the doilies and the club members turned them into angels. Marti’s grandmother always took her to the library so she thought it fitting her doilies would end up there. Large wreaths hang above two fireplaces and the mantles are covered with greenery and touches of the holiday. The 12 Days of Christmas vignettes appear in the windows.

Next time you visit the library, take time to appreciate the work involved in creating a holiday venue.

A special Easter Egg tree is part of the holiday decorations during the Easter season.

But that’s only one season of decorations for the group at the library. Another time they enjoy decorating is at Easter. At that time, they have stuffed animals and an Easter egg tree. Fluffy yellow chicks and bunnies of all sizes rest on the shelves and windowsills.

The first week of December, Grow & Show holds a Gingerbread House workshop for their members at Crossroads Library. Wonder if their gingerbread houses have plants or flowers around them.

Members take time to visit Cardinal Place each month where they take candy and treat bags to the residents while visiting them. They hope to expand this to other care facilities in the future.

A tree was planted for Sue on her 50 years of being a member. Pictured are Cheryl Lowry-Miller, Kat Bennett, Sue Cowden, Marti Reed, and Pat Graven.

The garden club plants and helps maintain trees that are dedicated in someone’s memory or just to honor someone special. There are two gardens where they plant trees. One is Shafer Park in East Cambridge while the other is a donated park at the corner of Beatty Ave and Clark St.

Jo Lucas has not only a beautiful flower garden but many fruit trees. At this time, she placed parachutes over them to protect the fruit from the birds.

They hold one public meeting related to gardening each year at the Cambridge Senior Center. This year the topic will be Gardening for Pollinators. Light hors d’oeuvres and a selection of desserts will be available. Reservations must be made for this March 26 meeting. Cost is $15.

Kat Bennett, Violet Scott, and Pat Graven explain using straw bales for planting.

Every year in May, they hold a Mother’s Day Garden Sale the Saturday before Mother’s Day where you can find some beautiful plants or flowers for mom. This year the event will be on May 10 at the Cambridge City Park Big Pavilion from 8-12.

Indoor plants are also a joy. Pat Graven has a green house in her bathroom.

Purchasing a couple hanging baskets to beautify downtown Cambridge is one of their projects. Some of their members also participate in watering the baskets throughout the summer months.

Much work has been done on the Great Guernsey Trail by members. They have contributed benches, trees, and flowers as well as helped with the Butterfly Garden. Plans are now being made for another display of plants there.

As you can tell, their community is very important to the members and many projects revolve around the beautification of Cambridge.

Bonnie Perkins has a beautiful koi pond in her yard surrounded by a variety of plants and flowers.

Grow & Show Garden Club meets the fourth Wednesday of each month at Crossroads Library at 1:00. Programs are always garden-related. A couple of times a year, the group visits a member’s garden. Some of them include waterfalls surrounded by plants, while others might have plants inside or a garden or orchard for their own food. Perhaps they might also visit a greenhouse or apple orchard. New members are always welcome so if you have an interest in gardening, stop by for a meeting..

These busy ladies know how to have fun while making the world a more beautiful place!

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Art, Gardens, Nature, Ohio, Organizations, Uncategorized

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Friends of the Library Love Book Sales

Mystery. Romance. Comedy. History. These are just a sampling of the kind of books you will find at a Friends of the Library Book Sale.

Their book sales have two purposes. First, you can stock up on books for your reading pleasure at a reasonable price. The last couple of years, the Friends have simply asked for a donation from books that have been selected. You can’t beat that! They also have delicious home-baked goods available for donation as well. There are some pretty tasty treats available from candy to cookies and even homemade bread.

Book Sales at Crossroads are held in this room where new window coverings, tables, and chairs were purchased from book sales.

The second purpose would be to provide special items for the library that they might not be able to purchase themselves. That has become an impressive list over the last few years.

During the early years of the group, which was founded in 2010, funding could only provide money for purchase of books from the best-seller list as well as the Newberry Award books. But as funding increased, so did the size of their projects.

New book bins were purchased for Cambridge Main and Byesville from Book Sales.

Colorful return book bins have been placed outside the Byesville and Main branches for easy return of books and videos. The logo on the bins was designed by local artist, Steve Lowe. The large meeting room has been enhanced with new window coverings and comfortable folding chairs.

They have contributed to the Summer Reading Programs for children at the library, and recently they purchased 15 wonder books with ready-to-read audiobooks inside, and 5 Launchpads for use in the Children’s Library. These Launchpads can also be borrowed from the library and contain learning aps, games, videos, and more for hours of fun. No Wi-Fi is needed.

A Discovery Backpack Program enables children to check out an exploration kit from the library. These include books, magnifying glass, headlamp, walking stick and more.

Stephanie Laube of United Way accepts a check for Dolly Parton Imagination Library from Friends representative, Mary Sikora-Skeslock after a book talk by young author, Gage Shepherd.

One of their favorite community-minded projects promotes the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in Guernsey and Noble Counties with 887 children enrolled. The project began in 1995 in Dolly’s home county and was inspired by Dolly’s father who never learned to read or write. She wanted the children of their area to develop a love of reading.

This was the recent book mailed to youngsters during the month of January.

Here a child can receive a new book mailed to them each month from birth to the age of five. Pick up an application at any of the Guernsey County Libraries or go online to register at http://www.imaginationlibrary.com. Over 172 million books have been given away by the foundation as of December 2021. What a great way to promote reading.

An evening of folk music by Adam Miller was presented at the library.

Some of the early community projects the Friends sponsored were family movie nights at the library, guest speakers, and promotion of young authors. They encouraged sharing stories through musical or even dinner theater with a lovely catered meal at the library.

Jerry Thompson dressed as Father Christmas reads during the Dickens Marathon Reading.

Several years ago, Friends of the Library began a project with Dickens Victorian Village. Each season they schedule a day to have a Dickens Marathon Reading of Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol.” This has become a popular annual event with a new reader every 15 minutes throughout the day.

Chris Hart has performed several one-man shows at the library as well as at the end of the Steeple Walk as part of Dickens Victorian Village.

Another event involving Dickens, has been an annual presentation of a Christmas-themed tale told by Chris Hart. This traditionally is performed at the end of the Steeple Walk. Chris has a wide variety of Christmas based stories he uses for this occasion.

A paranormal program captured attention with presentations by Shone Winegartner and his daughter of Cumberland and Mark Jordan from Malabar Farms. Joan Albaugh introduced the speakers.

There are approximately 90 members of this organization. They organize the books prior to the sale, help customers during sale days, as well as provide delicious baked goods. If you would like to be a member, you can pick up a form at the libraries. Fee is $15 for individuals or $10 for seniors 60+. Fill out the form and leave it at the library.

Children’s books are a popular item and always go quickly.

Perhaps you have some books you would like to contribute to their Book Sales. Donations are only accepted on sale days during the sales. There’s always a need for cookbooks, craft, and quilting ideas.

Of course, there are always books left over at the end of the sales. Some are saved for future sales. Friends have registered with Operation Paperback for the military and will use this as an outlet to diminish their paperback supply and also give some reading pleasure to our military.

Michele Hatcher, Carol Marlyne, and Joan Albaugh prepare for another Friends Book Sale.

Plan now to attend the Friends of the Library Book Sales for year-round reading enjoyment. Everyone needs some good books at home ready for a relaxing evening. While there, pick up some of their delicious home-made treats. Remember, everything is by donation and there’s no limit on how many books you can take home with you.

“When I think of all the books still left for me to read, I am certain of further happiness.”

~Jules Renard

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Cambridge, Christmas, Just for Fun, Ohio, Organizations, Uncategorized

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Heartland Travel Showcase Promotes Tour Group Travel

Heartland Bus (2)

Area travel attractions and tour groups enjoyed a peaceful ride to Heartland Travel Showcase.

    Every February, tour group leaders and attractions from the eastern United States meet at Heartland Travel Showcase to share ideas in various locations of the eastern United States. They have recently been in Pigeon Forge, Detroit, and Chicago with plans to have their showcase in Cleveland for 2021.

Radisson Hotel Home

Radisson Hotel Lansing at the Capitol was our home for a few days.

     This gypsy has been fortunate to be able to attend the Showcase for several years as the tour group coordinator for Dickens Victorian Village.  We were fortunate to have a great bus driver for our trip to Lansing. When we arrived, we unloaded our suitcases at the Radisson Hotel in downtown Lansing, which was just across the river from the Lansing Center where the Showcase was to take place.

     Heartland Travel Showcase is produced by the Ohio Travel Association in various cities in the eastern part of the United States. Travel is an important industry accounting for nearly $44 billion dollars a year in the state of Ohio. These shows are an important place to make connections and let others know about your particular event.

Lansing River Walk

An enclosed pedway led us from the hotel over this Grand River to the Lansing Center where the Showcase was held.

     This weekend event sets up booths early Friday morning, followed by what is called a Four Minute Meet. Here the tour groups are set up in a large conference room in alphabetical order and attractions have four minutes to tell them about why they might like to arrange a tour to their particular area and attraction.

Heartland Set up

Tour attractions just finished setting up their booths in preparation for the next two days of appointments with tour operators.

     The evening always has entertainment and a delicious buffet of foods provided by the city hosting the event. In Pigeon Forge, we visited The Island at Pigeon Forge as well as the Titanic Museum and a buffet at a country/dinner theater. Detroit treated us to a historic museum while Chicago opened the doors to their Impression 5 Science Center.

Lite Brite at Science Museum

Freedom to play with a giant Lite-Brite screen has Heartland visitors at the science center designing the mega-screen with a huge heart.

Heartland Slime

Several enjoyed the challenge of making their personal bag of “slime” for the kid in them.

     These places not only show other groups the highlights of their area but gives a chance to become familiar with other attractions and tour groups on a more personal level.

2020 Heartland (2)

Dixie Lacy from the Visitors and Convention Bureau and Beverly Kerr, group tour director for Dickens Victorian Village met with many potential visitors.

     Saturday and Sunday are spent at appointments that are scheduled with various attractions. This gives tour operators a chance to learn more about the attractions and see if they would like to schedule a visit.

    All events throughout the weekend are spent in networking with other tour groups and tour operators. There were also seminars on ways to learn about trends in the travel industry and how we might use them in our event.

Heartland Muskingum

On one side were friends from Muskingum County. Brenton Baker from the nearly opened  Dresden & Co. shared the booth with Kelly Ashby, Zanesville’s Chamber Vice President.

     We were pleased to be surrounded by other area attractions making it easy to discuss combined tours for a possible several day tour. These connections are an important part of the travel industry so we have friends who can help answer questions.

Heartland Marietta

Across the aisle, another special friend,  Deana Clark from the nearby Marietta/Washington County CVB  provides possibilities of many interesting tours.

Great Ohio Lodges - Salt Fork

On the other side representing Great Ohio Lodges were Joan Arrowsmith and Kathlene Williams. Our local Salt Fork Lodge is part of that group and the perfect place for lodging.

     By the time Sunday afternoon rolls around, ideas are flowing in everyone’s minds about tourism in 2021-22. It’s been a great place to build relationships and plan tours.

Heartland Capitol Building Lansing

Our last evening there, we took a walk to a nearby restaurant and had this view of the Lansing Capitol right down the street.

The bus ride home has everyone talking about possibilities for the future.

If anyone is interested in a tour to Dickens Victorian Village in Cambridge, Ohio during November and December each year, please contact me at DickensGroupTours@gmail.com and we’ll design a plan for your specific group.

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Art, Cambridge, Christmas, Festivals, Michigan, Museums, Ohio, Organizations, Travel Tale, Uncategorized

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Dance the Night Away with Cambridge Social Dance Club

Fezziwig Ball at gym

This dance group has led Victorian era dances at the holiday balls for years.

Tuesday evenings you often hear music coming from the Banquet Room of Mr. Lee’s Restaurant. This isn’t to entertain the customers over a delicious meal, but lesson time for the Cambridge Social Dance Club. If you would like to learn some new dance steps, this is the place.

Sock Hop with Elvis

Elvis even joined them for a sock hop.

   Spreading the love of dancing has been something this group has been doing for several years. They often perform at community events and spin around the floor making you wish you had their nimble ability.

Ron and Sheri 2

Ron and Sheri Warren teach others to dance at Tuesday evening classes.

   Started in 2002 by Al and Lee Mularski, the dance club was a place to teach others something that brought the Mularskis great pleasure. They loved dancing. Today, Ron and Sheri Warren serve as patient instructors. During my visit to a dance session, they were teaching the merengue, a Latin dance.

Ron and Sheri 001

Instructors Ron and Sheri Warren are dressed for the Grand Victorian Ball.

   Ron and Sheri demonstrated the basic steps of the dances first. They went very slowly adding new moves as soon as everyone was familiar with the original.  The moves they taught for the merengue included: travel, bow tie, hammerlock, and pretzel. Once they had the pattern down, couples could then make choices as to which move should come next.

Social Dance Club parade

They added their charm to a holiday parade.

   Often this group goes out to demonstrate their dance skills while they endlessly encourage others to join them. Rolling Hills Middle School volleyball team was one of those groups that found it a great social activity. Several places they have been recently included nursing homes, senior centers, and church programs. They’ve even been seen twirling down the street in a parade.

Joe and Ellen Waske 001

Joe and Ellen Waske share their dance skills at many events.

   Every year they do a benefit for a local charity that has special meaning to the group. Money raised might go to the American Heart Association or Cancer Association, but they make certain that it stays locally.

Jim and Paula Bakos

Social Dance Club President Jim and Paula Bakos shine on the dance floor.

   Jim Bakos now fills the role of president for this group. He feels dance is important because “it exercises the mind and the body.” Both partners have to know the steps, but the man leads and signals the next move to his partner through a touch, an arm movement or speaking.

Ladies 001

Ladies of the Cambridge Social Dance Club are pictured in their beautiful gowns.

   On Saturday, November 23 the group will be performing and instructing at the Grand Victorian Ball held at the Eagles’ Club and sponsored by the American Heritage Historical Society. They will appear in their beautiful Victorian ball gowns, many being made by Martha Owens, one of the dancers. Audience participation in many traditional Victorian dances will be encouraged.

Martha and Gary

Martha Owens and Gary Carpenter enjoy dancing. Martha makes many of the dresses for the ladies.

   The Grand Ball is reminiscent of Mr. Fezziwig’s Ball in Charles Dickens “A Christmas Carol.” Dancers from Columbus to Cleveland to Steubenville participate in this musical event. Dances they perform will include The Grand March, Virginia Reel, Lancers Quadrille, and Spanish Waltz.

   Reservations are required by November 18 for the Grand Ball at the Eagles’ Reception Hall and can be made by calling 740-435-0400 or 740-439-4150. Cost is $25 per person or $45 per couple.

Cambridge Social Dance Club Dancing

Dancing in the street gave a Victorian feel to a Street Fair in recent years.

   On Tuesday evenings they want to instruct those who are interested in social dancing. All ages are welcome from 10 -100. You might be a beginner or want to advance to another level – there’s a place for everyone. Every few weeks they change the dance they are teaching so you might find yourself doing the waltz, merengue, or tango to name a few. The dance for November is the East Coast Swing.

   The cost of lessons is very reasonable at $6.50 for members, $7.50 for non-members, and $3.00 for students. Children, when accompanied by their parents, are free! Lessons begin at 7:00 each Tuesday night except for December. For more information call Cathy Pastre at 740-826-4081 or Gary Carpenter at 740-502-8171. Join in the fun and learn how to dance. It will brighten your life.

   Dancing with the feet is one thing, but dancing with the heart is where the Cambridge Social Dance Club excels.

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Cambridge, Just for Fun, Music, Ohio, Organizations

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