Pick up at AAA centers across Ohio Visit www.amish-heartland.comPick uPick

OLIVESBURG GENERAL

STORETHE AMISH WEDDING

Always For the Town

Attractions • Events • Maps • Shopping

Heartland

NOVEMBER 2015

Tis the Season

FROM THE DESK OF

JAVON

for every season

Create

2131 SR 39 | Sugarcreek, OH888-852-2031 | Hrs: Mon-Sat 9am-5pmwww.swisscountrylawn.com

POLY FURNITURE

GAZEBOS

SWING SETS

GARDEN ACCENTS

INTERIOR DECOR

SEASONAL DECOR & GIFTS

Christmas Open House November

13 & 14

Spectrum Publications 212 E. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691, 330-264-1125, editor@spectrumpubs.com, www.amish-heartland.comPUBLISHER: Andrew S. Dix; NICHE PRODUCT MANAGER: Colette Taylor ext. 2220, SPECTRUM DIRECTOR: Amanda Nixon, ext. 2221; SALES: Lisa Beckman, ext. 2277; WRITER/ DESIGNER: Kate Minnich, ext. 2233; COVER PHOTO: Amanda Nixon; WRITER: Javon Miller

AMISHHeartland

WHAT’S INSIDE

FEATURES

28 FROM THE DESK OF JAVONThe Horse Auction

06 OLIVESBURG GENERAL STOREAlways For The Town

16 FURNITURE HEARTLANDTestimonials

24 IDEALZ

34 AMISH WEDDINGS‘Tis the Season

TRAVEL INFORMATION

12 CALENDAR OF EVENTSWhat’s Going on in Amish Country

IN EVERY ISSUE

AMISH HEARTLAND MAP18JUST VISITINGAmish Heartland’s Inns36EDITORIALMeet the staff02BOOK REVIEWThe Photograph03

RECIPES32SPECIALTY FOOD STORE10

BUGGY WHEEL CONTEST40*PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY CHERYL WESTFALL, AMANDA NIXON AND KATE MINNICH

28

November 20152

HeartlandMEET THE STAFF

Welcome Javon Miller !

We have listened to our readers! You have requested an Amish writer…and we have delivered! We are excited to announce our newest contributor to Amish Heartland, Javon Miller. Javon is a local Amish business man in Holmes County. He owns and operates Bunker Hill Hardware. Javon is truly passionate about writing and enjoys sharing his culture and faith through his fun and descriptive narratives! We welcome him to our magazine and look forward to his many stories. Check out his first story on page 28. Feel free to stop in the store and say “Hi.” to Javon when you are in Holmes County. Welcome Javon!

PIES • CAKESJAMS & JELLIES COOKIES DONUTS

• CANDIES • PASTA • CRAFTS • CLOCKS • DOLLS & MORE!

330-893-30024280 TR 356, Millersburg OH 44654

Hours: Mon. - Sat. 7am - 5pm • Closed Sundays

Miller’s“De Good Ole Fashioned Bakin”

B A K E R Y

4778 STATE ROUTE 545, ASHLAND, OH 44805419 8951038 • WWW.OLIVESBURGGENERALSTORE.COM

Mon. - Fri. 7am to 8pmSat. 8am to 8pm &Sun. 9am to 7pm

VisitOLIVESBURG

GENERAL STORE

STEP INTO THE PAST

ANNUAL HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSENovember 21st 10am - 3pm • Giveaways

READERS CHOICE AWARD FOR BEST ICE CREAM IN MIDOHIO FOR 2015

CAKE & COOKIE DECORATING SUPPLIESHOUSEWARES & GADGETS 650+ COOKIE CUTTERS

CROCKS DELI SANDWICHES PIZZASHAND DIPPED ICE CREAM SHAWSHANK SUNDAE

Amish Heartland 3

Reviewed by Amanda Nixon • AMISH HEARTLAND CONTRIBUTOR

Book Review

Can God use a worldly photograph of a young Amish woman to connect many lives and answer many prayers? In this latest novel by Beverly Lewis, “The Photograph”, a single photo causes quite the controversy among the Plain people of Eden Valley. Lily Esch, a young Amish girl has decided to leave her home town and leave her Plain life. She sneaks off in the middle of the night, leaving her two older sisters to worry. Eva and Frona Esch are beside themselves trying to figure out if Lily is okay and if she will ever return. But that’s not the only thing to fret over; their brother is preparing to move his family into the family home, leaving the girls to find a new home to stay.

Meanwhile, in Ohio, Jed Stutzman is grieving over the death of his fiancé for the last year. He is determined to occupy his time fine-tuning his buggy-making skills. When his uncle requests that he travel to Eden Valley to learn more about the buggy business, his path crosses with the young beautiful, Eva. Prior to arriving, Jed finds a mysterious photo on his train ride to Eden Valley of a young Amish girl. He is captivated by his findings and driven to find out what makes the girl in the photo have her photo taken.

Is Eva the mysterious Amish woman

in the photo? Or will this chance encounter answered the many questions of the Eden Valley people or create even more questions? I enjoyed this stand-alone story. Lewis has done a wonderful job weaving the lives of a few Plain people into the will of God. She demonstrates how something as simple as a picture can be used by God to have profound results. The story captivated me as much as the photo captivated Jed. I highly recommend this story!

by Beverly Lewis

Amish Heartland 3

November 20154

ATTRACTIONSBehalt/Amish & MennoniteHeritage Center..................................04Guggisberg Cheese Factory ..............14Warther Cutlery.................................27

CRAFTS & COLLECTIBLESC & C Treasure Seekers......................23Greenhouse Shoppe..........................38Main Street Bears...............................13Parsley Pot...........................................09Sol’s Exchange....................................38World Crafts........................................26

DINING & FOODBoyd & Wurthmann Restaurant......23Kauffman’s Country Bakery.............26Miller’s Bakery....................................02Smucker Company............................27Troyer’s Home Pantry........................12

FURNITURE & WOODWORKINGCountry Furniture............................23Green Acres Furniture.......................17Homestead Furniture........................17Jake’s Handcrafted Oak ...................38Troyer Furniture.................................17Walnut Creek Furniture....................17Yoder’s Oak and Cherry...................32

LAWN FURNITURE, STORAGE & GAZEBOSSwiss Country Lawn & Crafts......Inside

LODGINGBerlin Village Inn...............................36Donna’s Premier Lodging .................36Holmes With A View..........................36Scenic Hills RV Park..........................36

SHOPS & SUCHAmish Country Peddler.......Back cover

Berlin Craft & Antique Mall..............04Berlin Leather & Pets........................09Bunker Hill Hardware....................41Charm Harness & Boot.....................23Erb’s Stove Center............................15Gospel Book Store.............................03Holmes Sew & Vac..........................33Tis the Season.....................................09The Gospel Shop................................03Light for my Path..............................23Olivesburg General Store..................02Primitive Porch...................................13Quailcrest Farm..................................27

SPECIALTY FOOD STORESBulk Food Country Store..................11Cardinal Hill Grocery......................11Flour Sack, LLC..................................11Harvey’s Market.................................11Moreland Fruit Farms........................11Prairie Lane Market.....................10, 11

AMISHHeartland

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

America’s most-exciting cyclorama of Amish & Mennonite history; half-hour tours, bookstore, gifts;

5798 CR 77, Open Year Round.

330.893.3192 • www.Behalt.com

Amish Heartland 5

Amish Country Quilt Shop Hop

In Downtown Berlin

This is the shop hop you don’t

want to miss!

Area quilt shops join together to make this a fabulous 3 day event filled with fabric, fun and prizes. At each shop you will receive a different FREE pattern and be able to purchase a fabric kit for that block.

Call Gramma Fannie’s Quilt Barn for more information. 330-893-3243

November 4-7

November 20156

Down a windy road, with in the small town of Olivesburg lays a general store that has been serving the community

and tourists alike since 1840. Adapting to the demands of the surrounding community, Oliversburg General Store has supplied everything from dynamite and diamonds to cookie cutters and groceries. The store is currently owned and operated by Connie Crossen, but the environment and purpose of the building has not changed.

Locals often visit the store for a taste of the award winning ice cream or sense of community. The local sport teams troop in after a game for some celebratory ice cream. Lounging in the cafe style table and chairs the mature guests converse over coffee every morning. The

Olivesburg General Store was voted to have the best sandwich in Mid-Ohio this year and the their ice cream has been recognized three years consecutively. More than awards, the store offers a place to gather with friends and neighbors.

Coach buses, car and motorcycle clubs roll into the Olivesburg General Store to discover a resting ground containing authentic small town charm. Tourists have traveled from as far as Japan in order to enjoy the ice cream and deli. Charter buses, like most experienced Amish Country travelers, often make this a must see on their routes and call ahead to give the store advanced notice of their arrival time. Other times, visitors are passing through and decide to stop on a whim. No matter the method, everyone is always welcome at the general store. They are

Story & Photos by KATE MINNICHAMISH HEARTLAND WRITER / DESIGNER

Olivesburg General StoreAlways For the Town

Amish Heartland 7

also encouraged to sign the visitors’ book which captures a running tally of who has come from where.

This time of year our thoughts are turning toward Christmas and baking; an event Olivesburg General Store is prepared to sustain throughout the year. With over 650 silicon and metal cookie cutters to choose from, the possibilities are endless and definitely not limited to a specific holiday. Spinning racks entertain the mind with visions of mushrooms, dogs or music note shaped cookie cutters.

Cookie Cutter alley is an addition to the general store that came about naturally for Connie. The uses for cookie cutters are not limited to forming cookies, as Connie pointed out, they are good for many food forming tasks such as cutting cheese into holiday shapes. Creating festive appetizer platters this holiday season will be a breeze. Connie herself used cookie cutters to cut off the crust of her son’s sandwiches, and to form them into fun shapes.

Connie stocks all the cookie cutters her supplier carries, but if all cookie cutter needs are not met then perhaps creating a personalized cookie cutter is the solution. Olivesburg General Store currently carries a kit that will allow the creation of any cookie cutter conceived by the human mind. Complete with the tools and materials, the kit is sure to end any long lasting search for a specific cutter.

Christmas baking often includes more then just the run of the mill cookies, requiring copious amounts of cooking and decorative items to create the delicious treats. Whisks, spatulas, and multi-colored sprinkles are staples and getting good quality products at a decent price can be difficult. Fortunately there is a one-stop shop ready to supply all your baking needs. There is a wall within Olivesburg General Store that contains the largest selection of sprinkles most eyes will ever see. Why would anyone bother going somewhere else? Rounding off the baking selection with cup cake liners, cake pans and so much more, the store is fully equipped to handle most baking needs.

Beyond baking, the general store offers an

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November 20158

assortment of household décor items and select clothing perfect for Christmas gift giving. For those on your list who enjoy candles, picture frames and the like, Olivesburg General Store has a selection bound to contain something to please. You can find authentic Amish bonnets and men’s hats alongside gas powered lanterns; anything that you might need!

There is always that one person on your list who really wants something out of the ordinary, or you may need to buy for a goofy gift exchange. A consignment room in the back of the general store is likely to contain items to help you find just the right thing. Supplied and maintained by three people, the room is overflowing with unique salt and pepper shakers, and other odds and ends.

Olivesburg General Store is prepared to aid visitors in all their holiday needs from shopping and baking to maintaining a calm facade. Shopping can be overwhelming, especially if the list requires visiting multiple stores. Take a deep breath and pick up a coffee or ice cream to calm all the nerves. Then look around the store and finish off the seemingly unending list.

Olivesburg General store is located at 4778 State Route 545, Ashland, Ohio 44805. For more information call 419-895-1038 or visit www.olivesburggeneralstore.com

Amish Heartland 9

THE PARSLEY POT

A SHOP FOR ALL SEASONS

HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 9-5 Sun. 12-5CLOSED Monday

Call for directions. (look for tourist activity signs)

"Celebrating 41 Years!”

419-281-7514697 Co. Rd. 1302

Ashland, Ohio 44805

Christmas Open HouseThursday, Friday & Saturday

Nov. 12, 13 & 14330-893-3604

Open Mon - Sat 9am - 7pm4363 State Route 39 in Berlin, OH

www.TisTheSeasonChristmas.com

Tis the SeasonOhio’s Largest Christmas Shoppe

Specializing in leather waist belts• Moccasins • Felt Hats • Pet Supplies

• Saddles & Tack • Western Home Decor • Western Shirts & Coats

330-893-7038 ext 3Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 9-5

Fri. and Sat. 9-6 Closed Sun.4363 St. Rt. 39, Millersburg

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Stop in on Black Friday for Specials!

November 201510

Prairie Lane Market

7841 County Road 373, Big Praire, OH 44611Between Shreve and Nashville

• Grocery• Bulk Foods • Name Brand Merchandise• Rubbermaid Products

and Storage Buildings• Name Brand Bent & Dent

Groceries• Camping Supplies• Coconut Oil• Shortenings• Lots of Baking Supplies• And Much More!

Great Christmas Ideas!Comforters • Sheet sets

Toys • Exercise EquipmentGadgets • Safes

Amish Heartland 11

Specialty Food Stores

BULK FOOD COUNTRY STOREAddress: 14396 Dover Road, Dalton, OH 446181 mile West of Mt. Eaton on US 250Hours: Mon.- Sat. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Open evenings by chance.Closed Sunday. Only Cash and good checks accepted Bulk Food Country Store is a traditional Amish store that has been serving customers for 37 years. Products include: Haitian vanilla, coconut oil, xylitol, raw sugar, gluten-free products, cake filling/icing, pie fillings, black walnuts, local maple syrup, snacks, candies, fudge, jams & jellies, Watkins, Stanley Home products, Fuller Brush products, F.L.P. Aloe Vera, LARGE selection of Tupperware, cookbooks, dish cloths, Basic H and much more. Stop out and see Mary!

MORELAND FRUIT FARMAddress: 1558 Moreland Rd., Wooster, OH 44691, 1 mile west of State Route south. Visit our website for full detailed directions. Contact: 330-264-8735 or visit morelandfruitfarm.comHours: Sept. - Oct. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sept. 20 - Oct. Sun. 1 p.m.- 5 p.m. Payment types: cash, check or credit card w/a 2% user fee. Moreland Fruit Farm is located in southern Wayne County, Ohio, on the edge of Amish Country. The gently rolling hills provide a scenic background for picking your own fruits or visiting our Farm Market. Our Pick Your Own patches, vineyards, and orchards are open for picking as each crop ripens and are sold by the pound (containers are available). Please call to check the daily availability of the fruits in season.

“Stop in for friendly service and a large variety of quality goods.”

CARDINAL HILL GROCERYAddress: 8221 County Road 192, Holmesville, OH 44633Located along the Holmes County Trail (at mile marker three)Phone: 330-279-2619 Hours: Mon. Wed. Thu. and Sat. from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. & Tues. & Fri. 8 a.m.- 7 p.m. We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover Family owned and operated Bulk Foods and Deli. Stop in for friendly service and a large variety of quality goods. Including: 15 years selling home grown asparagus. We also have fresh ground grains, farm fresh brown eggs, home baked goods and home made cereals. There is also a bike shop in the building, offering bikes, parts and repair services (evenings and Saturdays).

HARVEY’S MARKET Address: 12636 State route 39, Big Prairie, OH 44611Two miles east of Nashville, 9 miles west of MillersburgContact: 330 231-0786; www.facebook.com/pages/Harvey’s-Market Hours: Mon.- Sat. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; After hours and Sunday, self serve Welcome to Harvey’s Market, where good produce and great people come together! We supply you with all the fresh produce you could need: vine ripe tomatoes, watermelons, cantaloupe, apples, tree ripe peaches (wholesale and retail) and much much more. Come for a visit and sample before you buy! You will love the atmosphere, the friendly service and the quality you receive. It’s the closest thing to picking from your own backyard!

FLOUR SACK, LLCAddress: 2430 Twp. Rd. 183, Baltic, OH 43804-9607Located between Charm and Farmerstown just off State Route 557 Contact: 330-231-5974Hours: Mon.- Sat. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. We accept cash, checks and credit cards. We carry a wide variety of bulk foods, spices, snacks and beverages. Fresh milk and eggs from a local Amish family farm. RVing? Propane tanks refilled here. Directions: From New Philadelphia take SR 39 north to Sugarcreek. Turn left onto SR 93. Take SR 93 five miles to SR 557. Turn left onto SR 557. Take SR 557 five miles to Township road 183 just outside of Farmerstown. Turn left onto 183. Follow 183 a mile and a half to location. Destination will be on the left.

PRAIRIE LANE MARKET7841 County Road 373, Big Prairie, OH44611(BETWEEN SHREVE & NASHVILLE)Hours: Mon. Tues. Wed. Fri. 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.; Sat, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Closed Thurs and Sun

Prairie Lane Market opened seven years ago as a grocery/bulk food and bent and dent store. “We are a family-owned store that carries a wide variety of discount groceries, health and beauty products, name-brand items like Huggies, Kraft and Campbells, just to name a few,” said owner Eli Weaver. “We also carry bulk foods, pet food, bird seed and more.” New shipments of products arrive constantly.

Stop in… fill your pantry shelves with great bargains or you just might find that perfect item you have been looking for!

NAME BRAND DISCOUNT

GROCERIES & BULK FOODS!

November 201512

Calendar of Events

November1Open House & Christmas PreviewWhen: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.Where: Pine Tree Barn, 4374 Shreve Rd., Wooster, OH 44691All our nooks and crannies are decorated for the holidays. See over 35 amazingly decorated trees. Great gift ideas. 330-264-1014www.PineTreeBarn.com

4-7Amish Country Quilt Shop HopWhere: BerlinArea quilt shops join together to create an event filled with fabric, fun and prizes. At each shop you will receive a different FREE pattern and be able to purchase a fabric kit for that block.330-893-3243

6Shakespeare Festival “Henry V”When: 7:30 p.m.Where: 1901 Smucker Rd., Orrville, OH 44667The American Shakespeare Center performs live. Call to purchase tickets.330-684-8932www.wayne.uakron.edu/shakespeare/festival.dot

6-7Season’s Splendor Arts & Crafts ShowWhen: Fri., 5 p.m.- 9 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.Where: Greenbriar Conference and Party CentreFloral designs, dolls, jewelry, wooden items, fabric items, stained glass, handwoven baskets, and seasonal holiday decor, glass block and wine bottle lights will be among the featured merchandise.330-345-5962www.greenbriarwooster.com

7Christmas Shoppe Open HouseWhen: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.Where: The Greenhouse Shoppe, 3649 Cleveland Rd., Wooster, OH 44691Revealing the 2015 Christmas Shoppe, full of lots of great Christmas decor and gift ideas! There will be refreshments and live music. Come celebrate the season and get your Christmas spirit started off right. 330-345-5300www.thegreenhouseshoppe.com

7-8Holiday Magic Open House When: Sat., 9 a.m.- 5 p.m., Sun., 11 p.m.- 4 p.m.Where: Quailcrest Farms, 2810 Armstrong Rd., Wooster, OH 44691Stop out for extraordinary gifts for everyone on your list and all your holiday decorating. Shop

668 W. Main St., Apple Creek330-698-4182

M-F, 6 am-6 pm; Sat, 6 am-5 pm;Closed Sunday

317 E. North St., Wooster330-263-1990

T-F, 6 am-4 pm; Sat, 6 am-2 pm;Closed Sunday & Monday

• Grandmas Jam House

• Schlabach Amish Bakery Granola

• Troyers Homemade Noodles

• Cappuccino/Coffee/Tea

Other Favorites:• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Amish Heartland 13

with our artists in the Greenhouse. Christmas workshops and lunches (call for reservations)330-345-6722www.quailcrest.com

9-14Three Year Birthday/Anniversary SaleWhere: Light For My Path, 8142 Twp. Rd. 574, Holmesville, OH 44633Check out this special event going on all week long! This special candle shop is full of great scents and lots of deals. All candles 30% off this week and a generous giveaway of three $30 gift certificates! Get a ticket for the drawing for every $10 you spend. Also, first three customers of the day receive a free ticket for the drawing. This is one you do not want to miss.330-600-2229

12World Craft’s Open HouseWhen: 9:30 a.m.- 8 p.m.Where: World Crafts, 131100 Emerson Rd., Kidron, OH 44636 (behind Lehmans)Stop out for the annual holiday kickoff. Lots of specials and holiday nativities.

12-14Christmas Open HouseWhen: 9 a.m.- 7 p.m.Where: Tis the Season, 4363 St. Rt. 39, Berlin OH 44610Celebrate the holidays with some great decor ideas and great gift ideas.330-893-3604www.tistheseasonchristmas.com

12-14Amish Country Peddler Christmas Open HouseWhere: Amish Country Peddler. 3147 St. Rt, 39, Walnut Creek, OH 44687Great savings and lots of specials during this three day open house. Thursday, November 12th, 20% off everything in the store. Saturday, November 13th and Sunday, November 14th, 10% off everything in the store.330-893-2134www.homespunwalnutcreek.com

13-14Pine Cone Gift Shop Christmas Open House When: 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.Where: Pine Cone Gift Shop, 2877 Kidron Rd., Orrville, OHThis great gift shop is full of lots of gift ideas: Christmas wreaths and arrangements, battery operated timer candles, lighted pictures, jewelry, scarves, gloves and tons of Christmas linens. Open house will include door prizes and refreshments...make sure you include this one in your holiday festivities. 330-857-4443www.pineconegiftshop.com

13-14Christmas in the Village Where: The Village of NavarreBring your friends and families to our historical village to experience an Old Fashioned Christmas. Fabulous shopping, horse drawn wagon rides,

Christmas Open HouseFri. Nov. 13th, Sat. Nov. 14th

10am-5pmSunday Nov. 15th 12pm-4pmDoor Prizes • Refreshments

225 NORTH MAIN ST. • (RT. 21) • NAVARRE(330) 879-9655

330-893-0150 • 4815, East Main Street, Berlin, OH 44610facebook.com/Th ePrimitivePorch • www.primporch.com

A Unique Experience Every Visit. Offering

Antiques, Primitives, and Country Home Decor.

November 201514

trolley, food and give-aways. Christmas parade starts at 10 a.m. on Sunday.www.visitnavarreohio.com

13-15Main Street Bears Christmas Open House When: Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Sun., 12 p.m.- 4 p.m.Where: Main Street Bears, 225 North Main St., Navarre, OH 44662Stop out to this unique store for some great gift ideas for that special someone. Refreshments, specials, and door prizes.330-879-9655

13-14Swiss Country Lawn & Crafts Annual Holiday Open House When: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.Where: Swiss Country Lawn & Crafts, 2293 St. Rt. 39, Sugarcreek, OH 44681Check out this annual tradition. Lots of great gift ideas and wonderful decor ideas to set the Holiday mood in your home. Specials and prizes.330-852-2031www.swisscountrylawn.com

13-14Christmas Open HouseWhere: Primitive Porch, 4815 Main Street, Berlin, OH 44610Stop in and be filled with the holiday spirit! We have tons of gift ideas and lots of Christmas decor to fill your home with cheer this season. During open house, we will have specials on some of your favorite items.330-893-0150www.primporch.com

14Holmes County Largest Book Signing When: 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.Where: Gospel Book Store, 4900 Oak St., BerlinWe invite you to join us for the Gospel Book Store’s 6th Annual Largest Book Signing. Over 30 authors will be in attendance. Chat with authors and have your books signed by your favorites. Many different genres to choose from. Pick up the perfect personalized Christmas gift for a friend or loved one. 330-893-2523www.mygospelbookstore.com

14-22Warther’s Christmas Tree Festival When: 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. Festival closes on 22nd at 5 p.m.Where: Warther Museum, 331 Karl Ave., DoverA forest of beautifully decorated Christmas trees will be set amid Warther’s famous carvings. Each tree, with its own unique theme, will be for sale. Proceeds from the festival benefit the Union Hospital Auxiliary330-343-7513www.warthers.com

16-21Holiday Open HouseWhen: 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Where: Smucker’s Store and Cafe, 333 Wadsworth Rd., Orrville, OH Join us each day for some great holiday specials. Please see our ad for the individual specials each day and times. Bring in the holiday cheer with some festive gift ideas and Christmas atmosphere.330-684-1500www.smuckers.com

21Olivesburg General Store Annual Open House When: 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.Where: Olivesburg General Store, 4778 St. Rt. 545, Ashland, OH 44805 Take a drive to this amazing hidden treasure tucked away in Olivesburg. The annual holiday open house will be the highlight of your season...giveaways and specials. Voted Reader’s Choice

Amish Heartland 15

Award for best ice cream in Mid-Ohio for 2015. Stop out and see why.419-895-1038www.olivesburggeneralstore.com

20-21Wooster Potters Guild Holiday Sale When: Fri., 4 p.m.- 9 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.Where: Wayne Center for the Arts, 237 South Walnut St., Wooster, OH 44691Great sale of local handmade pottery. 330-264-2787www.wayneartscenter.org

26

Happy Thanksgiving!

27Nativity ParadeWhere: Main St., BerlinCelebrating the true meaning of the season, you will find no Santa Claus in this parade. The live nativity parade comes down Main Street and

concludes on the square where there will be candle lighting and caroling. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies provided by Operation Christmas Child.330-674-0022www.heartofamishcountry.com

27-28Christmas in the village of Downtown SugarcreekWhere: Village of Sugarcreek, Downtown SugarcreekA Christmas candle lighting service starts the activities, the Christmas story is read, an honorary candle lighter is recognized, and at the flip of the switch, downtown Sugarcreek comes to life with a beautiful tree, light displays and strolling carolers. Enjoy free song books, hot chocolate, pastries and gifts, and start your Christmas shopping- our stores will keep the doors open for you. www.sugarcreekbusinessassociation.org

November 201516

The four Furniture Heartland stores, all pride themselves on supporting their customers. For them the satisfaction

of a customer determines the success of their business, a mentality that has furthered each business.

Many customers who have visited the Furniture Heartland stores praise the quality products presented to them. Someone unfamiliar with the Amish furniture being produced by the Heartland stores would believe the pieces to be crafted from blonde wood, extremely sturdy and plain. While the pieces maintain a sturdy and durable quality, you are no longer limited to blonde wood and most of the pieces are far from simple.

The support and honesty shown to each customer has created a bond that is evident by the number of repeat buyers. As you read through the testimonials below it will become apparent that the service provided to the customers has made them more willing to return and bring their friends.

WALNUT CREEK FURNITURE“I have shopped with Walnut Creek Furniture

for about 15 years now and every time I am very pleased. The craftsmanship is excellent and the value is quite good. They are also willing to make changes if the piece(s) you like are not quite what you are looking for or you can design something from scratch. They are amazing!”

--- K. Yap, Clemmens, SC

GREEN ACRES FURNITURE“As you custom made the bed and dresser,

we want you to know that it IS exactly what we wanted and the quality is superb. We show all our friends your workmanship, the finish and the great slides that you put on the drawers. You were very accommodating and patient with our requests and the final product was perfect.”

– Nick & Florence Zulick, Sterling Heights, MI

TROYER FURNITURE“The guys delivered the furniture this morning

and it is BEAUTIFUL!! My first purchase from Troyer Furniture has been very favorable and I will be sure to share my pleasant experience with family and friends. Please let your manager know that you were most accommodating and had great ideas as we customized the bedrooms suit. Also, please thank the builder for the amazing craftsmanship and let the logistics manager know that the delivery guys were amazing! They were courteous, polite, cautious, and respectful. Thanks to all of the Troyer Team. I look forward to doing more business with you in the future.”

-- Charlie and Julie

HOMESTEAD FURNITURE“They took the time to show us around the

whole store, and helped us to make changes to the design of our furniture to fit our style. Erin the Interior Designer on staff met with us several times during the process and even followed up with us afterwards! We would definitely recommend Homestead Furniture.”-- Joellen

Customer Testimonials

Amish Heartland 17

Two Miles North of Mt. Eaton in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country7412 Massillon Rd. Navarre, OH 44662 | 800.807.0975

www.greenacresfurniture.com

BEDROOM SET WE LOVE OUR

BEDROOM SET

Our Live Edge Walnut Table in the home of a satisfied customer

November 201518

6 Berlin Village Inn

5135 SR 39, Millersburg (Berlin) (40.5597161º -81.80692º)

16 Donna’s Premier Lodging

5523 East Street, Berlin (40.560806º -81.795587º)

24 Holmes with a View

3672 TR 154, Millersburg (Berlin) (40.508033º -81.801507º)

41 Scenic Hills RV Park

4483 TR 367 NE, Millersburg (Berlin) (40.5513798º -81.7821696º)

52 Zinck’s Family of Inns

4703 SR 39, Millersburg (Berlin)

(40.559689º -81.791478º)

TR = Township Road SR = State Route CR = County Road US = US Route

AROUNDAMISHHeartlandIncludes GPS coordinates

3 Behalt/Amish & Mennonite

Heritage Center

5798 CR 77, Millersburg (Berlin) (40.5671534º -81.7815958º)

21 Guggisberg Cheese

5060 SR 557, Millersburg (Charm) (40.5246103º -81.8043815º)

22 Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary

5623 New Milford Rd., Ravenna (41.142673° -81.219571°)

28 J.M. Smucker Company

Store & Cafe

333 Wadsworth Rd., Orrville (40.802762° -81.763000°)

37 P. Graham Dunn

630 Henry St., Dalton (40.793873° -81.700984°)

49 Warther Carvings

331 Karl Ave., Dover (40.525787º -81.487994º)

7 Boyd & Wurthmann

4819 E. Main St., Berlin (40.561531º -81.7957431º)

12 Charm Family Restaurant

4450 SR 557, Charm (40.506683° -81.785093°)

28 Kauffman’s Country Bakery

6013 CR 77, Millersburg (Berlin) (40.5738493º -81.781379º)

32 Miller’s Bakery

4280 TR 356, Millersburg (Berlin) (40.5308237º -81.8118837º)

42 Shisler’s Cheese House

55 Kidron Rd., Orrville (40.796565º -81.746371º)

46 Troyer’s Home Pantry

668 W. Main St., Apple Creek (40.7554854º -81.8442625º)

8 Bulk Food Country Store

14396 Dover Road, Dalton (40.705213° -81.725843°)

11 Cardinal Hill Grocery

8221 County Hwy 192, Holmesville (40.635738° -81.905858°)

23 Harvey’s Market

12636 SR 39, Big Prairie (40.588578° -82.075478°)

33 Moreland Fruit Farms

1558 Moreland Rd., Wooster (40.711712°, -81.968451°)

38 Prairie Lane Market

7841 CR 373, Big Prairie (40.633630° -82.086563°)

17 Flour Sak, LLC

2430 TR 183, Baltic (40.477627° -81.755946°)

Amish Heartland 19

1 Amish Country Peddler

3239 SR 39, Walnut Creek (40.5451448º -81.7386129º)

2 Berlin Antique Mall

4359 SR 39, Berlin (40.55015909º --81.77977010º)

5 Berlin Leather & Pets

4774 US Route 62, Millersburg

(Berlin) (40.5613792º -81.7939588º)

9 Bunker Hill Hardware

3939 CR 135, (40.540187º -81.767010º)

10 C&C Treasure Seekers

3169 SR 39, Walnut Creek (40.544694° -81.736425°)

13 Charm Harness & Boot

4432 CR 70, Charm (40.506574º -81.784203º)

14 Country Furniture

4329 CR 168, Millersburg (40.5711508º -81.776448º)

15 Country View Wicker

2701 SR 557, Baltic (40.841048º -81.764447º)

18 Gospel Book Store

4900 Oak Street, Berlin (40.7071309º -81.679855º)

19 Green Acres Furniture

7412 Massillon Rd., Navarre (40.561738º -81.799496º)

20 Greenhouse Shoppe, The

3649 Cleveland Rd., Wooster (40.8453279º -81.9284401º)

25 Holmes Sew & Vac

4897 West Main St., Berlin (40.561726º -81.798374º)

26 Homestead Furniture

8233 SR 241, Mt. Hope (40.6268459º -81.784219º)

27 Jake's Handcrafted Oak

8239 TR 562, Holmesville (40.659197º -81.918054º)

29 Kauffman Lawn Furniture

4540 US 62, Millersburg (Berlin) (40.5690155º -81.7849802º)

30 Kiko’s Greenhouse

8142 TR 574, Holmesville (40.798646º -81.646774º)

32 Light For My Path Candles, LLC

225 N. Main St., Navarre (40.609090º -81.913460º)

33 Main Street Bears

225 N. Main St., Navarre (40.7225129º -81.5224304º)

34 Mt. Hope Fence

7102 CR 77, Millersburg (40.603298º -81.780687º)

35 Olivesburg General Store

4778 SR 545, Ashland (40.855888º -82.318932º)

36 Parsley Pot

697 CR 1302, Ashland (40.8768762º -82.2596821º)

39 Primitive Porch

4815 E. Main St., Berlin (40.561488º -82.795519º)

40 Quailcrest Farm

2810 Armstrong Rd, Wooster (40.899130º -81.990688º)

43 Sol’s Exchange

4914 W. Main St., Berlin (40.5617104º -81.7991439º)

44 Swiss Country Lawn & Crafts

2131 SR 39, Sugarcreek (40.5172712º -81.6999655º)

45 Troyer Furniture

985 W. Main St., Sugarcreek (40.5110001º -81.6529587º)

48 Walnut Creek Furniture

3473 Ohio 39, Walnut Creek (40.5463267º -81.7477899º)

50 World Crafts

13100 Emerson Rd., Kidron (40.7412134º -81.7450194º)

57 Yoder’s Oak & Cherry

6018 CR 77, Millersburg (Berlin) (40.573872º -81.781354º)

5911 S. Kansas Rd., Apple Creek

(40.7281179º --81.7760680º)

November 201520

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November 201522

SUGARCREEK

11 Brick Towne Tavern

980 W. Main St., Sugarcreek(40.499299º -81.635022º)

12 Broad Run Cheese House

6011 Old 39 NW, Dover(40.510957º -81.573298º)

4 Sugar Valley Meats

2149 Dutch Valley Dr. NW.,

Sugarcreek(40.515232º -81.608855º)

15 Collectors, Decanters & Steins

119 East Main St., Sugarcreek (40.502761º -81.640391º)

22 Gospel Shop, The

112 East Main St., Sugarcreek (40.502816º -81.640546º)

6 Idealz

100 W. Main St., Sugarcreek (40.502778º -81.641009º)

1 Alpine Hills Historical Museum

106 West Main St., Sugarcreek(40.503017º -81.641373º)

1 41511

12

22

6

Amish Heartland 23

Antiques & Primitives • Shabby ChicSpecializing in Gas & Oil Memoribilia

C & C Treasure Seekers

OPEN MONDAY SATURDAY 105Located 1/4 mile West of Walnut Creek

New Location! 3175 SR 39, Millersburg, OH 44654

330-893-1333 Like Us On Facebook!

Where Comfort, Quality & Price

Meet!

Discover unique styles or customize

Handcrafted by Family

or Select Local

craftsmen.

39 YearsFamily Owned!Since 1976

4329 C.R. 168, Millersburg, Ohio 44654 � 1 Mile North of Berlin in Bunker Hill Hours:

Mon-Sat: 9am-5pm � 330-893-4455

Where You Can See &Feel The Difference

www.boydandwurthmann.com

Downtown Berlin330-893-3287

Mon. - Sat. 5:30am - 8pm

Since“1938”

8142 Township Road 574 • Holmesville, OH 44633Mary Troyer • 330-600-2229

Located on the corner of SR 83 and Sheriff Training Center Rd.

3 year Anniversary / Birthday Sale November 9th-14th

Giveaway - 3, $30 Gift Certifi cates• Get a ticket for every $10 you spend• First 3 shoppers each day get a ticket.

4441 Co. Rd. 70, Charm • 330-893-0402Mon. & Fri. 7:30-7:00; Tues., Weds. & Thurs. 7:30-5:00; Sat. 7:30-3:00

Kid’sMen’s Women’s

FASHION TO WORKCUSTOM

LEATHER BELTS

November 201524

Shopping locally takes on a new meaning at iDealz, where items from popular stores are offered at lower prices. Similar in concept to

Marshalls, the store provides anything from home décor items and groceries to vintage items and jewelry.

The items obtained by iDealz are not consignment items, but rather items that have been returned or contain slight imperfections and cannot be sold by the big name stores. Comforter sets, clocks, purses and more line the walls and shelves of iDealz offering the latest styles. Carrying a various assortment of everything, iDealz is able to shorten any Christmas list without breaking the bank.

The store has become well known for their clock wall due to the high volume and range of styles they are able to offer. Ranging in size, style, and shape there is sure to be something to fit the décor of any home.

Beyond the clock wall, there are various wall hanging items that will spice up any room in your home. Chalk boards of different styles and shapes

hohoppppiningg lolocacallllyy tatakekess onon aa nnewew mmeaeaniningng aatt

Story & Photos by KATE MINNICHAMISH HEARTLAND WRITER / DESIGNER

Amish Heartland 25

are sprinkled throughout the establishment. Other more unique items can be found sprinkled throughout the store. One particular piece contains enlarged numbers and letters in a square formation and is reminiscent of a drawer in a letterpress printing shop.

Buying jewelry can often be frustrating and expensive, but at iDealz, the prices are reasonable and the products are made of good quality materials. Button earrings are predominately displayed on a swivel stand and in a decorative bowl. Available in various colors and patterns the earrings are a perfect gift for any fun loving, earring wearing person on your list.

Created due to popular demand a vintage line of home décor takes up the full length of the building. Sometimes the latest trends do not complement the theme of a home or the liking of its owner. Other times the vintage items offered by mainstream stores look brand new. The vintage items found at iDealz express the vintage feel through their distressed surfaces or

overall design. Within the vintage section of iDealz customers

are sure to find common items as well as a bit of the unusual. Various tables and chairs delight the eye with possibilities for home makeovers. Accents such as candle sticks or decorative boxes are interspersed throughout the room inviting a method of personalization that may not have been initially apparent.

Repeat, local customers keep iDealz in business and spur the addition or subtraction of items from the inventory. When a bent and dent store down the road went out of business patrons couldn’t purchase discounted groceries anymore and asked iDealz if they would stock grocery items. Always trying to cater to their customers, iDealz values their opinions and modifies their inventory to echo the needs of the community.

Rising in popularity all throughout the country is the sale of grocery items past their marked expiration date. Whole shops are rising up that

araree spspririnknkleledd ththrorougughohoutut tthehe eeststabablilishshmementnt ovovereralalll dedesisigngn

November 201526

strictly carry items the grocery stores are no longer able to sell, because of the government regulated expiration date. Many of these items are still safe for consumption, but the grocery stores are not allowed to sell the items directly to consumers so they are being sold to retailers similar to iDealz. Completely legal and safe to consume, the items can then be sold at a lower price.

When iDealz first began carrying groceries, it only took up the back corner of the store. The section has since grown to encompass roughly a third of the room. New groceries are brought in bi-weekly or when particular items are running low.

Idealz offers home décor, vintage, grocery, jewelry and so much more. A single visit will not satisfy the curiosity, with new items being brought in regularly there is always something new to be discovered.

Idealz is located across from the cuckoo clock at 100 W. Main Street, Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681. For more information call 330-852-6111.

Holiday Cookie Trays • German Stollen Breads • Red Velvet Cake Donuts • Sauerkraut Rye • Peanut Brittle

All Souvenirs, Jams & Jellies & Specialty Goods!

50% OFF*Up to $4 value. Not valid with

other offers or discounts.

50% OFFBAKED-GOOD

ITEM

Mon-Thurs 7am-5:30pm; Fri & Sat 7-6 • Open Sunday

May through November

Order Online: www.kauffmanscountrybakery.com

330.893.21294357 US 62

Millersburg, Ohio

November 27th, 28th & 29th

Open Sunday

Nov. 29th Our

Last Sunday for 2015

Fairly Traded Handcrafted Items From 35 Developing Countries

13110 Emerson Rd., Kidron • Beside Lehman’s• 330-857-0590 •

www.worldcraftskidron.com • Mon-Sat, 9:30a.m.- 5p.m.

OPEN HOUSENOV. 12TH, 9:30A.M.-8P.M.

•HOME DECOR••SCARVES••JEWELRY•

•COFFEE/TEAS••CHOCOLATE••NATIVITIES•

Amish Heartland 27

330-345-6722 • Rt. 83, 5 Miles N. of Wooster or7 Miles S. of I-7i • www.quailcrest.com

1029830200

Open House Sat., Nov. 7th 9-5& Sun., Nov. 8th 11-4

Wonderful holiday treats, guest artists, music and a special visit from the

Christmas Alpaca’s! Come celebrate the

season with us.Tues.- Sat. 9-5

Starting Nov. 29th

Mon.-Sat. 9-5 • Sun. 11-4

2010 Armstrong Rd. • Wooster, OH 44691

November 201528

It is early in the morning, Saturday to be exact. Both of our sons will soon be awakening to an exciting day. We are on a

mission. Our faithful buggy horse of 13 years needs to be replaced. The second Saturday of every month, hundreds of horses and people converge upon the little hamlet of Mt. Hope, Ohio. Drive through this sleepy little town on a regular weekday and you will think it is a small farm town. A grocery store, two feed mills, a restaurant, hardware store, fabric and shoe stores, and two banks are all that it appears to be. Ahh, behind the mainstreet buildings lies the main attraction. The Mt. Hope Auction Barn. This monthly auction draws people from Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Michigan, and many other states for the sole purpose of horse trading.

On our way to Mt. Hope, we have a few small errands to take care of, so we take the tractor and trailer. We stop at the lawn mower repair

shop to pick up our newly rebuilt mower. We also need to start the day off right, so we stop at Kauffman’s Country Bakery in Bunker Hill to get coffee and donuts. The fresh, crisp air is truly invigorating and it is a beautiful morning. On the way we pass many horses and buggies. We could say all roads lead to Mt. Hope.

The excitement mounts as we find a parking spot several hundred yards from the action. We near the main barn that blocks the view of all the activity that we can hear. The familiar sounds of pounding hoofbeats, the heavy snorting of horses, the smell of sweaty horses, and the excited drone of the spectators quickens my heartbeat with anticipation of what I know we will see. The beauty of horses in full stride racing around the track. The thrill of seeing a dozen or more horses and jockeys breezing around the track. Truly a bright sight. The question is always, what will the horse market be today? Will they be affordable?

From the Desk of Javon Miller....The Horse Auction

Amish Heartland 29Amish HeHeeaararartltlaand 29

As I round the corner, here comes the first horse! Wow! What a horse! He’s big, black, and “chromed out” with white trim. His mane and tail are streaming out in the wind. His breath is coming in sharp snorts. The jockey is pulling hard on the lines to keep this horse in check. With multiple other horses running, this horse is fired up and putting up a show!

Almost everybody greets us with a smile and a hearty “Good Morning.” We are truly a part of the community.

“Good morning. Isn’t this a nice day?” I turn to see who addressed me and find a boyhood friend from three hours away. We stop to chat a bit. After a few pleasantries and a few minutes small talk, he says, “Looks like the horse prices might be up a bit today.” Not good for me.

Here comes another horse flying around the corner at a blazing trot. This is a smaller bay colored horse. His flanks are speckled with flecks of sweaty foam. What a sight. The jockey, evidently knowing my friend, with straining arms and line so taut you could almost strum a tune, drives up and says, “Hold him a bit while I rest my arms.”

Behind the barn the dust is billowing as the dealers and jockeys test drive the horses around the track. The beating of dozens of hooves resonated through the air and you can almost feel the pulse in your head. Here is where we watch for any prospects that might catch our eye. On a paper we note any number tags that are glued to the horse’s rump. These are the numbers that we will look for in the auction arena.

Next step is to go to the main office. We cannot bid on a horse unless we register for a buyer’s ID number. I am registered #365. We also pick up a dealer listing of consigned horses. After a quick glance over it, I see a horse that I want to see. I am attracted to his pedigree. My sons and I head for the barns to take a closer look at the options available. This is a horseman’ s pleasure. Rows of horses all tied to face the aisles. Hours have been put in getting these ready for this day. They are gleaming with the scent and sheen of “Show Shine”, a spray that is brushed into their coat to bring out the lustrous color and make the dust

brush off with no effort. Here we are, at the stalls represented by Duane

Hershberger. He is truly a master of the trade. He grew up in the horse world, can handle about any horse, and knows quality when he sees it. His lot might not be as extensive as some dealers, but he makes up for it with quality! Presenting a stunning dozen or couple more consignments, I have found the one I am looking for. There he is, Neely Lane! I have driven a half-brother of his and so am attracted to him.

My boys and I begin the initial scrutinization. He is big enough for us. How is his temperament? As we approach him, he watches us with a calm look. I run my hands down his neck, across his back and rump and end up walking behind him with a gentle pull on the tail. Don’t do this unless you are accustomed to horses. Next I lift his feet and handle his legs. Everything looks good except for the left front knee. It is swollen a bit, no heat or puffiness, just a large hard knee. I inquire about it and am reassured, “You buy him with that. It doesn’t bother him. Appears to have been a racetrack injury. If he turns out lame, bring him back. I carry my 30 day soundness guarantee on him.”

I ask about his history. “I have him here for someone else. He was too much horse for his wife. He has been in the buggy. He is traffic safe and just had too much speed.”

Just what I need. Now the big question, how many other people want him too? I ask one more question, “Is he ready to drive to town or church tomorrow morning?”

“Ahh, once you get used to each other, yeah.” answers Hershberger. I should have asked more questions about that response, but didn’t.

Next stop, the hub of it all, the auction arena! As we near it, I hear that we have Dean Beachy as auctioneer. This is one to respect. Master of equine auctioneers. Sellers love to have him sell their horses and buyers cringe to bid for him. Mr. Beachy is one of the smoothest auctioneers in the business. Just having Dean sell can raise the horse prices $1,000 or more. Mr. Beachy is truly an artist. He grew up as the son of best horse trader in Holmes County, Bert Beachy.

November 201530 November 2015330

He learned his lesson well. A glance at the horse, a quick rustle and Dean has looked at the registration papers and he knows what to do.

“Five year old. Mr. Laveck by Lindy Lane goes back to Balanced Image. A record of 1:45 at a trot as a two year old!”

The dealer chimes in, “Got this horse six weeks ago fresh from the track. Drove him to town. My wife and 16 year old daughter have driven him, traffic safe and sound! Drives with style and snap! A real driving machine!”

“Twooooo thousand,” interupts Dean, and the sale is on. “Two thousand, thousand dollars, fifteen hundred, fifteen now two thousand...” The bid takers start yelling with bids all over the place and so it goes until at $3,000 we’re stalled. Mr. Beachy kicks in with a pep talk. “Listen guys, we’re way under the money here. We’re in the first 20 horses, you think they’ll be cheaper, they won’t! We still have a couple hundred to go and tonight at 3 o’clock this horse will be $5,000. Thirty-five hundred, do I have $4,000...SOLD. Fifty-two fifty. Buyer 295.”

So it goes as the horses parade through the arena. Most find a new home, others are no-saled, “takes more money.” After six dealers, we arrive at the one I am looking for, Mr. Hershberger. The crowd shifts a little in their seats. A fellow beside me leans over a bit and says, “If you want a horse, here is what everyone is waiting for. Duane’s are always good horses. They are usually the highlight of the sale.”

My heart drops a bit. He also told me that they are usually at the top of the money in auction. I am limited on how much I can go and clearly know my limits. The first one comes in and sells for a quick $7,400. The next six to seven all range from $4,500-$7,500! Not good. My hopes are quickly diminishing for a reasonable price.

My son looks at me and asks, “Dad, when is our horse coming?” My answer, “The next one.”

Here he comes. My heart rates raises a little in

anticipation of the upcoming battle. The auctioneer announces, “Neely Lane, a five

year old trotter.”Mr. Hershberger recommends, “5 years old,

been in the buggy. I am selling him for someone else. He is traffic safe and sound. You buy him with a swollen knee, it doesn’t hurt him but it’s there. The reason for selling is he had too much pull for women. He’s here to sell!”

My heart hammers in my throat when I start the bidding at $1,750. At $2,500 we are stalled. I hold the bid! The tension is rising! Is it possible? Not a chance, I think. Not with Dean at the block. He knows what this horse is worth and

it will bring more. Both the auctioneer and the dealer give a pep talk on the qualities of this horse and the auction resumes. Oh no, a new bidder entered the fray. I slowly nod my head at each new bid request. We are at my maximum bid. I give a slow, pensive nod in trepidation. Will someone raise my final bid? My heart is hammering. Please let me have him at this price, Dean. Drop that gavel in sale. Dean eyes Duane Hershberger as he asks for another bid. Duane

makes a slight cutting action with his hand. Ah, thank you, the gavel drops! SOLD! Your buyer number sir? 365. Mission accomplished! My boys are elated and I am relieved. It is over.

After paying my dues, arranging trucking, and a final look at our horse, we head home.

Before we leave the hamlet of Mt. Hope, we stop at the Country Mart and buy ice cream cones. A must before going home.

At home, we eagerly await the arrival of Neely Lane. Here he comes! The whole family comes out to assess the new addition. We all, including Mom, hitch him to the lightweight open buggy and go for a test drive. WOW, what a driver. He is all fire and spirit! This one is sure to keep me on my toes! I see why I was told, once you two get used to each other.

On the final stretch home, he is almost

"My heart hammers in my throat

when I start the bidding at $1,750. At $2,500 we are stalled. I hold the bid! The tension is

rising! Is it possible? Not a

chance, I think. "

Amish Heartland 31Amish HeHeeaararartltlaand 31

unmanageable. We do arrive home safely. Just a couple of drives and he will be alright, we console ourselves. Next morning we hitch him up to go to church five miles away. We get a late start and breathtakingly are among the first ones there. Unfortunately, most of our fellow church members started on time and we passed them on the way to church. What an adventure. An Amishman in his Sunday best driving a runaway. I told my wife, “Grab my hat before I lose it.” And so it was, hatless we cruised around most of our church folks. Part of the time I was actually standing upright in the buggy, pulling back with my whole body.

Monday evening we drove him again. Same story. What in the world did we get ourselves into? Neely Lane is totally traffic-safe but completely unmanageable. Finally my wife grabs ahold also and we are both hauling in as hard as we can. Please Lord, we ask that the stitches don’t break on our lines! If they do, we are done for. Just as we thought all control was lost, he started whistling for breath and staggering. I found a driveway to pull into and forced him to stop. We stood a few minutes to gather our wits together and rest my weary arms. I asked Star (Neely Lane renamed Star by our five year old Jayden) to start off again, what a change of heart! We got through to him. His respect for us was gained. His attitude changed completely. I can now feel the communication flowing between us through the lines.

We have a mode of transportation that is alive and a part of our family. My wife and eight year old son can drive and control this 1,300 pound animal with no problem. Never would I allow an eight year old to drive without someone by his side, but Star obeys his slight cues. My sons can pet and brush him as a pet. When we come into the barn, he stands at his gate waiting for us.

You have just walked with me through our process of choosing a new mode of transportation. This is very much a personal experience, more so than going to a car dealership and dealing with a salesman. Our transportation is a part of our family.

What did I do with my faithful horse, Mack,

of 13 years? I could not sell him through the auction barn. He was and still is a friend to me. An answer showed up unexpectedly. A family friend has struggled to own a good horse for a long time. Nothing worked out. He requested that I sell Mack to him. I was happy to give Mack to him. Mack will be used lightly once a week. He will be well fed and now enjoys a leisure retirement. Mack still loves to pull a buggy and run when on the road but just could not handle the regular trips of a family.

I still see him regularly out at pasture, enjoying his retirement. If I bike past, all I have to do is whistle or call his name and he instantly looks around for me. How many cars or trucks will do that?

A horse is more than a mode of transportation. To us, they are a companion, business partner (farmers), and friend.

Respectfully submitted,

Javon Miller, owner of Bunker Hill Hardware

November 201532

Recipes

INGREDIENTS:*1 large can sweet potatoes*2 apples, cored, peeled & sliced*1/2 cup brown sugar, packed *1/2 cup chopped walnuts*5 Tbsp. butter or margarine*1/2 cup buttered crumbs*Walnut halves

DIRECTIONS: Layer potatoes and apples in a greased 1 1/2 qt. cassrole dish. Combine brown sugar and chopped nuts. Sprinkle casserole with 1/2 sugar/nut mixture, then dot with 1/2 the butter; repeat. Top with buttered crumbs and arrange walnuts on top. Cover and bake at 375° for 45 minutes. Remove cover and bake 5-10 minutes more or until crumbs are light brown.

Sweet Potato-

Apple Casserole

DIRECTIONS:Brown hamburger and onion in skillet.

Cook noodles according to directions. Combine all ingredients in a greased casserole dish and bake uncovered at 350° for 45-55 minutes or until bubbly.

INGREDIENTS:*1 1/2 lb. hamburger*1 Tbsp. minced onion*1 large can tomato juice*1 can tomato soup *1/4 cup sugar*Dash of chili powder*1/2 tsp. salt*1 pkg. medium noodles

Johnny Marzetti

We build furniture your way All day!

• Dinettes • Bedroom Sets

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Amish Heartland 33

Marbled Pumpkin Cheesecake

INGREDIENTS:*1 1/2 cup crushed gingersnap cookies*1/3 cup butter, melted*3/4 cup sugar, divided*3 eggs*3/4 tsp. cinnamon*1/2 cup finely chopped pecans*2 8-oz. pkgs. cream cheese, softened*1 tsp. vanilla*1 cup pumpkin*1/4 tsp. nutmeg

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350°. In a medium mixing bowl, combine cookie crumbs, pecans and butter. Press into the bottom and about 1/2” up the sides of a 9” spring form pan. Bake 10 minutes. Set aside to cool. In another medium bowl, mix cream cheese, 1/2 cup sugar and vanilla until smooth. Mix in eggs one at a time, blending well after each. Set aside 1 cup of this mixture. Mix 1/4 cup sugar, pumpkin, cinnamon and nutmeg into the remaining mixture. Spread the pumpkin mixture onto cooled crust. Drop plain mixture by spoonfuls onto the top. Swirl with a few strokes of a knife to create marbled effect (be careful not to do this too much or the effect will look muddled). Bake 55 minutes or until filling is set. Run a knife around the edge of pan when slightly cooled. Allow to cool fully before removing from pan. Chill at least 4 hours before serving.

4897 West Main Street • Berlin, OH 44610(330) 893-2864 holmessewandvac@yahoo.com

Hrs: Tue.- Fri. 9:00-5:00 • Sat. 9:00-2:00 • Closed Mon.

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November 201534

The months of November and December do not immediately evoke thoughts of weddings within the general populous,

but within the Amish community early winter weddings are a deeply rooted tradition. One of the most prevalent reasons Amish weddings took place predominantly in the colder months was due to the inability to prepare food in advance without storing it within a cool area. Today, weddings among the Amish community occur all year round due to the rental of trailers containing coolers and ovens for baking. The weddings are now planned for a year in advance due to the demand on the trailers and the baking begins weeks ahead of the actual day.

All the cooking is completed by women of the families connected to the wedding couple. The number of guests at each wedding is dependent upon the size of the surrounding community because neighbors, church members, and family relations are all invited. Typically, an Amish wedding will have between 300 to 400 people in attendance. In short the preparation for the meal must be started before the day of the ceremony and the cooks must rise very early on the morning of the event.

The day of the ceremony the bride puts on a dress of blue, a white apron and a black headpiece. This attire will be worn by the woman for the church service, after its conclusion, the black head piece will be switched out for a white one, marking the woman as married.

Pre-selected ushers greet guests as they arrive at the church and help them to their seats. Depending on the Order the Amish couple is affiliated with, there may be two or four ushers.

In most cases the women are seated on one side of the church while the men sit on the other. The first two benches are reserved for close family members.

The church service is officiated by a bishop with the support of fellow ministers. Before the sermons can begin, the bishop and residing ministers go into a private room with the couple. At this time the duties of each party within the marriage are discussed and understanding is encouraged from both parties. The man is encouraged to be understanding of his wife when she has just had a child and a woman is asked to be understanding of her husband when he has had a long day at work.

Once the bishop and ministers have finished their counsel, the wedding couple returns to the congregation. The clergy remain closeted for a time after to talk over the marriage. At this time they may confirm who is saying what part of the service.

Upon leaving the clergy the wedding couple meet with their witnesses and enter the main congregation. Generally four witnesses, consisting of two couples, are selected; one by the bride and the other by the groom. While the wedding couple and clergy were away the congregation maintained the singing of songs pertaining to marriage.

The wedding service focuses on the family structure and the institute of marriage as laid out by the Bible. An opening sermon will be given by one of the ministers and followed by a scripture reading. The bishop will then give a main sermon speaking from the old and new testaments focusing specifically on relationships

Story by KATE MINNICHAMISH HEARTLAND WRITER / DESIGNER

Amish Heartland 35

and marriage. Then the wedding vows are exchanged between the bride and groom.

Following the vows, a prayer is spoken by the congregation. The bishop then takes the hand of the bride and places it in the hand of the groom saying: “The God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob be with you and help you together and give his blessings richly unto you, and this through Jesus Christ, Amen.” Concluded with a song by the congregation, the church service is finished and the group moves to a separate building for a meal.

The bride and groom are seated behind a table with their witnesses on either side of them. The wall behind the couple is decorated to the bride’s specifications and may contain candles or similar items.

Each guest is served a meal of chicken, potatoes, salad, dinner rolls, and dressing. Followed by a dessert of ice cream, cake, or pie and coffee. The decorative wedding cake is traditionally three tiers, but is not served to the guests. Instead the wedding cake is given to the servers, ushers and witnesses who have supported the bride and groom throughout the day.

As each guest finishes their meal they will rise and greet the newly wedded couple before departing. There are two shifts during which the guests will eat; the first wave will eat directly

after the church service. When this group is finished they will rise, greet the wedding couple and depart. There is another meal served around five o’clock.

The Amish Order the wedding couple is associated with will determine who eats at which meal. In the older Amish Orders the first meal is eaten by those who attended the church service and is the general eating time. The meal provided at five o’ clock is more intimate and eaten by the family, people of the church and the younger friends of the bridal party. In the new Order of Amish the first meal is served to the married couples who will then rise at the conclusion and greet the wedding couple as they leave. Then the tables are re-prepared and the unmarried guests eat at the later meal.

Similar to English weddings, the Amish have traditions that are deeply associated with their religion and culture. Several little differences exist between the way the old Order and the new Order of Amish go about the ceremony and the meal, but the meaning behind the marriage is the same. They all spend the

day celebrating the family structure and reveling in the joy of new creation.

This article was sourced by an Old Order Amish Minister and a New Order Amish Minister.

First they are both asked: "Can you both confess and believe

that God has ordained marriage to be a union between one man and one wife, and do you also have the confidence that you are approaching marriage in accordance with the way you have

been taught?” The bride and groom then answer

yes....

Then individually: "Do you also have the confidence, Brother [Sister], that the Lord has

provided this, our Sister [Brother], as a marriage partner for you.”

The bride and groom respond yes....

"Do you also promise your wife [husband] that if she [he] should in bodily weakness, sickness, or any

similar circumstances need your help, that you will care for her [him] fitting for

a Christian husband [wife]?” The bride and groom respond yes.

...The couple is then addressed

together: "Do you both promise together

that you will with love, forbearance, and patience live with each other, and not part from each other until God will

separate you in death?” They both respond yes.

November 201536

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3672 Twp Rd. 154, Millersburg(Located just outside of Charm)

330-893-2390www.holmeswithaview.com

johnam8@gmail.com

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Amish Heartland 37

Heartlandwww.amish-heartland.com

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Amish Heartland is packed with content our readers love:

• Authentic stories about the Amish culture

• Features on your favorite Amish businesses

• Amish recipes• Full calendar of events• Contests that keep our

readers engaged

For more information call 330-264-1125

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November 201538

Christmas ShoppeOpening Saturday, Nov. 7th

THE GREENHOUSE SHOPPE

• Collectible Santas • Angels • Unique Glass Ornaments • Wreaths

• Table Top Figurines • Christmas Florals and much, much more.

Poinsettias, Fresh Wreaths, Greens, Winterberry, Roping available after Thanksgiving

Nov. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm • Sat. 9am-5pmDec. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9am-7:00pm • Sun. 1pm-5pm3649 Cleveland Rd. • Wooster 330-345-5300

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OPEN YEAR ROUND • Closed Sundays4914 West Main St. • Berlin, OH 44610 • 330.893.3134

Search: Sol’s in Berlin

Ohio’s Largest Arts & Crafts Mall

An Amish Country ‘Must See’ Since ‘93

June-OctoberOpen 9am-7pm

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November - MayOpen 9am-5pm Daily

Open Memorial Day, 4th of July &Labor Day

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Amish Heartland 39

MailbagWhen we ask people what their favorite part of the Amish Heartland is, we get comments on our magazine and the places we write about. In August, we received over 50 letters from all over the U.S. Here is what some of them had to say this month:

Fall Photo ContestAmish Heartland is having a Fall Photo Contest.For the upcoming season put your photography skills

to work and capture the beauty that is only found in our Amish country.

Contestants can submit up to 10 of their best photos. Photos that have been edited will not be accepted.

The deadline for the Fall Photo Contest is Dec 1, 2015.The top three winners will be announced in the March

issue of Amish Heartland. Winners will receive a 6-month subscription to Amish Heartland and a gift from one of our local retailers.

Send photos and contact information to Amish Heartland, 212 E. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691

or via e-mail to kminnich@spectrumpubs.com.

We love all the featured stories about the Amish and Mennonite culture and ways of their everyday life. A favorite place to stay is “Guggisberg Swiss Inn”. We really love the “authentic” Amish family recipes. You do a great and informative magazine. -CLIFFORD WILLIAMS, COLUMBUS

“

My favorite part of the Amish Heartland is the great food and wonderful scenery. It’s always a special trip. -JAMES AMEND, ASHLAND

“ ”

Looking for and finding the buggy wheel, also reading about events taking place in the Amish country.

-MARLA GARRISON, ASHLAND

“”

”

My favorite part of Amish Heartland is the well built furniture. Knowing quality work turns into quality products those advertised are functional and appealing by Eastwood Amish Craft Furniture. -ROBERT & LINDA KRANAK, AKRON

“

”

Buggies. My dad was raised in Millersburg. I grew up in Ashland- Olivesburg area. I love to visit home!!

-LAI SCHLUETER PARISH, FRANKLIN

“”

My favorite part of Amish Heartland are the shops, recipes, the countryside people, crafts and the food.

-LINA WESTERMANN, SOUTHGATE MI

“ ”

“ My favorite part of the Amish Heartland is the calendar of events, articles about Amish living. The ads for shopping and restaurants. EVERYTHING!

-KIM LEICHNER, FREDERICKTOWN

”

November 201540

Pick up at AAA centers across Ohio Visit www.amish-heartland.comPick uPick u

OLIVESBURG GENERAL

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Always For the Town

Attractions • Events • Maps • Shopping

Heartland

NOVEMBER 2015

Tis the Season

FROM THE DESK OF

JAVON

I FOUND THE BUGGY WHEEL ON PAGE ____________NAME: ADDRESS: PHONE: MY FAVORITE PART OF AMISH HEARTLAND:

Don’t miss a single issue of

1 Yr. Subscription = $27.50

Order your subscription by sending your name, address, phone number and check (made out to Spectrum Publications) to Amish Heartland, 212 E. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691.

Find the Buggy WheelRules for entry: Somewhere in this issue you’ll find a buggy wheel, just like

the one below. It may be tucked in an ad, in a picture or placed somewhere else on a page. It won’t be just any buggy wheel, but just like one of the wheels at the right.

Clip the entry form below and mail it to: Amish Heartland Puzzle, 212 E. Liberty St., Wooster, OH 44691; Entries must be postmarked by November 30, 2015. One randomly selected winner with the correct answer will receive a gift from one of our Amish Heartland advertisers.

In last month’s issue the buggy wheel was hidden on page 22. Congratulations Roger & Rita Lonas of Athens, OH on being our September winner.

Heartland

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Stop in today and we look forward to seeing you!

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phone: 330-893-2134 3147 Ohio 39 Walnut Creek, 44687

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