July Our Town

JULY 2014

Page 2 www.ourtownnorthcanton.com June 2014

July 2014 www.ourtownnorthcanton.com Page 3

PUBLISHERJim Dansizen

EDITORSDan MucciKris Lackey

STAFF WRITERSCR Rae

Jeremy WattsTammy Proctor

Patricia FaulhaberSarah Weidner

Dawn LaRay CampanelliAlyssa West

Dr. Bob Roden

ONLINE CONTRIBUTORSDr. Bob Roden

SALES REPTerri McArthur

GRAPHIC DESIGNNick Conley

PHOTOGRAPHYCover: Dr. Bob Roden

Page 3: Walsh UniversityJulie Mathie Cross

PRINTING BYDansizen Printing

www.ourtownnorthcanton.comemail:[email protected]

Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . 3North Canton People

Mayor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5President of Walsh . . . . . . . 7Superintendent . . . . . . . . . . 8City Council President . . . 11School Board President . . 12

Dr . Roden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Cultural Corner . . . . . . . . . . 14Our Town Cooks . . . . . . . . . 17Literary Review . . . . . . . . . . 18Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

“ Freedom is never given, it is won.” - Author UnknownJU

LY

CALENDAR

4 YMCA July 4th Race

14Hoover’s four state titles recognized at Firestone Park during Racers game. Game to be televised on CBS.

18 to

19 Balloon Festival Classic Jackson Township

20Herb Society at Hoover Historical Center’s annual Summer Tea at 1 p.m. For reservations, call 330.244.4667.


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NORTH CANTON YMCA Community Building 330-499-2587 Child Development Center 330-305-5437 Gymnastics 330-498-4082


Mayor Held

By Dawn LaRay Campanelli Staff Writer

“I have six hobbies,” said a proud David Held shortly before Father’s Day. “Luke, Haley, Abbey, Aubrey, Heidey and Carley.” His six children, ages 9 to 19, have his heart and have taught him key life lessons he says he wishes he would have learned a long time ago.

“There is never a lack of opinion in my house!” laughed Held, “and having children has helped me appreciate three things in life – the importance of having patience, understanding people and humility.”

He encourages his kids to share their ideas about his role as full-time working father who happens to also hold the highest elected office in the city of North Canton. “It helps them learn and prepare to become adults,” added Held. “So much in life we cannot control. Ten percent of life is what happens to you and 90 percent of it is how we deal with a situation. Life is about our attitude.”

Balancing family and career is a matter of establishing priorities for Held. “My family comes first, then the people I serve,” he said, immediately complimenting his wife, Sharon of 23 years and the great people he works with as being very supportive of his active public servant roles over the last decade.

As North Canton’s mayor since 2005 and the executive director of the Stark, Tuscarawas, Wayne Joint

Solid Waste Management District since 2004, Held is accountable to thousands of residents, a seven member city council and a nine member commissioners’ board. “The purpose of life is to love and serve God and other people,” believes Held. “I can do nothing by myself and work hard to bring people together.”

To relieve the stress associated with his busy schedule, Held regularly works out at home, admitting that after age 40 it has been a challenge to stay in shape. On occasion, he can be spotted jumping on the trampoline with his wife and kids in the backyard. “I really enjoy spending time with the kids doing physical activities,” he added. “We spend a lot of time supporting the kids in their sports and events, but what I really like to do is to go boating – water skiing and tubing on Lake Erie and the inland lakes.” Familiar waterholes he remembers fondly from his childhood growing up in North Olmsted.”

The experienced father of half a dozen children offered some practical advice for new parents.

1). “It is really important to teach your children a sense of right and wrong,” said Held. “I always tell my kids to do work worthy of honor. In every action you take, think that the whole world is watching them and act accordingly.

2). Teach your children to have empathy for other people regardless of their situation. “No matter of their gifts and talents, every person can make a difference,” added Held.

3). Discipline. “Children need to understand how their behavior is affecting and impacting other people,” he explained.

While Held says he couldn’t have imagined that his life would be immersed in North Canton serving as mayor, he knew at an early age that he wanted to go into public service. “I really love public service and it is an honor and privilege to serve to try and address problems and concerns,” concluded Held. •

North Canton’s mayor puts family first in balancing his busy lifeCOVER STORY

And Now You Know!Inside fun facts about North

Canton Mayor David Held

Technology: If you ask his children they’d tell you their dad is always on the phone! “They tease me about it all the time,” remarked Held. “My Samsung smart phone is a great invention and is the technology tool I could not live without. It is critical to help me do everything I do.”

Book: Proverbs from the Bible. “It is a guidebook for anyone who desires public service. It really teaches young people how to work with others,” said Held.

Food: Cheeseburgers

Dessert: Chocolate Milkshake

Sports Team: Hoover Vikings, Cleveland Indians and Cleveland Browns

First Political Race: 1996 – Held lost the Republican Primary for Stark County Commissioner

First Political Role: Appointed Marlboro Township Trustee in 2000

First Job: Medical Sales Rep for nine years

Unique Skill: Rides a unicycle

Coaching Experience: Assistant wrestling coach at Kent State University (1998-1999)

North Canton Favorite Spots: “When we have visitors come into town we always drive up Main Street,” said Held. “Everyone loves it because it resembles Main Street America.” He also showcases the North Canton YMCA, the walking trails, bike baths and the duck pond at Price Park.



By Tammy Proctor Staff Writer

As graduates begin the difficult job of finding a job, take heart. There is a role model in North Canton – a man who had his eye fixed on education, succeeded in the corporate world, then returned to education. This man had an amazing career path.

When Richard Jusseame enrolled in Walsh College, the campus consisted of two buildings and a few sidewalks.

“I was going to be a French teacher,” Jusseame, the son of Quebec immigrants said. “Then I was going to teach Spanish and English.”

Jusseame was born in Fall River, Massachusetts, a textile town where one-half of the school day was taught in French and the second half in English. His teachers were among the same brotherhood who founded Walsh University, the Brothers of Christian Instruction.

A full scholarship brought Jusseame to “the wild west” of Northeastern Ohio. It was just the beginning of a career path that would bring him full circle, leading him back to North Canton and to Walsh University as president.

“The physical changes on campus are quite dramatic,” said Jusseame of the early 1960s when he first stepped on the Walsh Campus. “There were two buildings and a few sidewalks.”

Today Walsh University’s campus features 24 buildings on 136 acres. The university has satellite campuses in Medina, Akron, Cleveland and Columbus. Internationally, Walsh

University has a campus in Rome, Italy.From 1964 through 1973,

Jusseame was known as Brother Richard as a member of Brothers of Christian Instruction. Early in his career, Jusseame served as an assistant principal and dean of students in upstate New York.

“The first job is the most important,” Jusseame said, who enjoys reading in his spare time. “The first job gives credibility with an employer.”

Jusseame earned credibility along every path he traveled. In the corporate world, he served as an advertising director, human resources director, director of strategic planning, chief operating officer, president and chief operating officer.

“I never took a class in business,” Jusseame said, who enjoys spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. “But I read everything on the subject.”

An avid reader, Jusseame continues to read a wide array of books and three to four newspapers daily.

Impacted by Robert Greenleaf’s essay and philosophy of servant leadership, Jusseame established a corporate leadership program while working at Graphic Enterprises in North Canton. Servant leadership is carried forth at Walsh in the leadership institute.

“I spent 17 years in education and then 17 years in the corporate world,” he said.

To recent college graduates, Jusseame said it is important to continuing learning.

“Approach a job with absolute diligence,” he said.

Jusseame said when employment opportunities arise, take it. An employee doesn’t have to possess every bit of knowledge about the job at the onset, but should diligently read and learn about a new challenge.

Only once did Jusseame not walk through a door of

opportunity. In 1973, he was told if he stayed in the religious order, he would travel to Italy to study where he would return with a doctorate and someday he would become president of Walsh.

Not taking the study opportunity in Italy was ultimately a blessing because along his path he met his wife, Terie, and the couple had five children and six grandchildren. This summer Grandpa Jusseame will welcome two more grandchildren.

In his 14 years at Walsh University, Jusseame has reinforced the mission of Walsh – to provide middle class students with a higher education.

“Our student body is Ohio-based,” said Juseame. “We make them a part of the global economy.”

The enrollment at Walsh has doubled in recent years. More than 3,000 students from 15 states and 31 countries have the opportunity to participate in programs that give them experience around the globe, from South America to Africa.

“Walsh is a real jewel in Northeast Ohio – one our neighbors are hardly aware,” said Jusseame.

He welcomes visitors to the campus, located at 2020 East Maple St. Walsh is a Catholic university that welcomes students of all faiths.

“Visit and see the opportunities,” he said.

This president, whose career began in education at Walsh, lead him to success in the corporate world and then back to Walsh, is the perfect example of opportunities that begin in North Canton. •

Jusseame’s lifelong learning journey starts and ends at WalshCOVER STORY

Walsh Pres .


Superintendent

Superintendent Hartenstein takes notice of magical moments in classroomsCOVER STORYBy Patricia Faulhaber Staff Writer

North Canton City Schools hired a new superintendent two years ago. Michael Hartenstein came to the district in 2012 and has been enjoying his time getting to know the community, the students and the teachers.

While Hartenstein is not a teacher himself, some of the moments that make him stop and take notice are those that happen in the classrooms.

“Those magical moments in the classroom when learning clicks for a student and creates an aha moment for the child and the recognition manifests itself physically in the child’s face is what I notice most when working in education,” Hartenstein said.

“Other great moments I experience in my job are when I see kids doing something really nice for other kids. It’s those acts of kindness and compassion that make a real difference. I’ve noticed the level of volunteerism and parental involvement in the North Canton community and the district is enormous,” he said.

Hartenstein lives in Berea and commutes to North Canton. His wife Meg teaches math in the Parma City School district. Before coming to the North Canton school district, Hartenstein worked at Parma schools for 13 years, first as a director of information systems and then as chief operating officer.

His own education includes an undergraduate degree in history and a Master’s degree in educational administration, both from Miami University. His superintendent’s licensure work was completed at Cleveland State University.

“I wanted to be a college professor before realizing the limited job opportunities. I started working three jobs at Butler County school system. I was a truant officer, pupil personnel director and the technology coordinator,” Hartenstein said.

He has also worked for the Ohio Department of Education in Columbus. He taught himself computer programming and realized he had a talent for working with computer and network systems. He went on to work for IBM for several years. Hartenstein later started his own networking and

engineering company. One of his clients was the Parma City School District.

Parma’s superintendent convinced Hartenstein to come to work for the district. He and his family eventually moved from Columbus to Parma.

Hartenstein and his wife have two children, Anna, 31, who lives in Pittsburg, Pa., and Ben, 28, who lives in Brooklyn, NY. They also have a granddaughter, Beatrice, who is 2 years old.

How does the superintendent unwind? He is a runner, swimmer and has had a lifelong passion for biking. Both he and his wife have taken many long, overnight biking trips around the U.S.

Two of the longest biking trips the Hartensteins have taken include a five-day trip through northern Minnesota. They’ve biked various segments of the bike trail from Pittsburg to Washington D.C. and they’ve also taken some time to bike the Stark Parks trails and the Towpath trails.

“I also have a deep passion for classical music. I love to listen to classical music. I’ve also studied the history of music and composers,” Hartenstein said.

Hartenstein has several major achievements in his career that have been memorable. One was chairing the levy committee in the Parma district. The district had tried seven times to get

the levy passed. “If the levy didn’t pass, the district

was going to go into state receivership. I came at the levy campaign like it was a business venture and we got it passed. The second thing that has made a difference to me was getting the Straight A grant for this district. This grant is hugely important to North Canton City Schools. I’m excited about the great things we’re going to do here and this grant will help me achieve those things,” Hartenstein said.

Another proud moment in his life was when his wife got her Ph.D. in theoretical mathematics. She earned her degree while working at The Ohio State University and raising their children.

“I’m hugely proud of her and she was such an inspiration for our children,” he said.

In addition to planning great things for the district, Hartenstein has been spending the last two years getting to know the students, staff, parents and the community in North Canton. He sits on the boards of the North Canton Chamber of Commerce, the North Canton YMCA and Character Counts and is involved with the North Canton Rotary.

“I really like this community a lot. I like the entire area and feel very fortunate to be here,” Hartenstein said. •

Superintendent of North Canton City Schools, Michael Hartenstein, is enjoying his relatively new job working with the North Canton School District and the community.

Photo by Patricia Faulhaber


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Seated left to right:Standing left to right:

Cindy Ferry and Steve StifflerMegan Siskie, Debbie Payne, Tara Bumgardner and Christine Belak



City Counsil Pres

in North Canton and was a 1996 graduate of Hoover High. His parents live in the surrounding area.

Camping is a big part of the family’s life and they usually do so wherever they can. Spending a weekend camping at Cedar Point is always a highlight of the summer, but the fun does not stop there. Peters said the vacation time really revolves around the kids doing what they like to do and “they love to go camping.”

Other adventures have taken the family to Dayton. In fact, they often go to Peters’ brother-in-law, who is a history teacher in the Dayton area and is very “in tune” with the history of the city. So the Peters have seen everything Dayton and learned much about the beginnings of aviation.

One of the favorite family trips was camping at Niagara Falls. They have also taken some beach trips and with 17 grandkids on Anne’s side of the family, they have spent time camping with the entire family at Indiana Dunes. Anne was born in Chicago, so Jeff and the kids have learned about Lake Michigan and each year, when camping at Indiana Dunes, they journey on the train into the windy city. “The kids love the big city, it is quite a change for them,” Peters said.

They plan more history trips for the kids as they get older to learn more about the country’s past. •

CR Rae Staff Writer

Jeff Peters, age 46, is North Canton council president, but there is more behind this president than going to council meetings and helping to run the city.

Peters has been married to Anne for 19 years. They have four daughters, Kendra, 12, Holly, 10, Eva, 8, and Delaney, 4. He has lived in North Canton for 43 years and is a graduate of Hoover High School Class of 1986. After graduation, he attended the University of Akron and moved on to begin a career in sales.

He is currently employed at Glazer’s distributors of Ohio and has been with them 12 years. Prior to that, he worked approximately 12 years with the Coca Cola Co.--working in sales for both companies.

Peters has been, as he put it, on and off council since 2002. He was an at-large councilman for two years and then was appointed to council in 2008 and was

appointed council president this spring, when Jon Snyder resigned the position.

He is “Mr. Mom” throughout the school year as Anne works several evenings a week. Peters picks up the kids from school, makes sure they do homework, makes dinner and takes care of bedtime. “Back when I was a kid, my dad worked all the time and my mom was always home. This is normal everyday stuff today, with two parents working. We find a way to make it work, it is very busy, but very rewarding,” said Peters.

Two of the four daughters are involved in gymnastics, which keeps the family busy most weekends. “It takes a lot of time, and as parents, we are part of the booster club and we work all of the events at the snack bar, judge’s tables, etc.,” Peters said.

He is a hometown guy and is a big Cleveland sports fan. He attends the local high school sporting events.

Peter’s family lives in Ohio. His brother Eric lives in Plain Township. Eric graduated from Hover High in 1988. He has a younger sister, Emily, who lives

Council president Peters enjoys active life with familyCOVER STORY

“Back when I was a kid, my dad worked all the time and

my mom was always home. This is normal everyday

stuff today, with two parents working. We find a way to

make it work; it is very busy, but very rewarding,”

- Jeff Peters, Council President


By Patricia Faulhaber Staff Writer

Betty Fulton has a passion for public education which she takes very seriously. She believes in the benefits students receive when attending public schools. Fulton also strongly believes in the quality of education that students at North Canton City Schools receive.

She continues to put action to her words. After retiring from teaching reading and math to elementary school children for 38 years (25 of those years were at North Canton), she ran for and was elected to the North Canton City Schools Board of Education in 2012. She was elected as board president for 2014.

“It’s my opinion and experience that North Canton City Schools has the most caring and dedicated educators who are always here for their students,” Fulton said.

“I’m very proud to have been a part of the accomplishments the district has achieved over the years. We have all worked very hard to reach those goals,” she said.

Fulton said her position on the board of education is unique in that she lives in the district, is a taxpayer, her children graduated from the district and she herself has spent many years

in classrooms throughout the district. She’s taught in Clearmount, Orchid Hill and North Canton Middle School.

“I can see things from a variety of positions when making decisions as a board member. The kids in the district and what happens to them is personal to me. One of the things I love about being involved with education is that I can look back and say I touched someone’s life in positive ways,” Fulton said.

Fulton holds two degrees, a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in education from Wayne State College in Wayne, Neb. She also has 30 hours past her master’s degree from Ashland University.

Many of her family members also continue to be a big part of North Canton. Ron, Fulton’s husband, worked in management at The Hoover Co. in North Canton for more than 35 years. Her oldest son Matt Johnsen teaches English and is the high school swim coach for the North Canton district. Her step-son Matt Fulton lives in Columbus and works for Radio Shack. Her daughter Susie Johnsen-Celek lives in Philadelphia, PA., and owns her own business called Skin Palette.

She has two granddaughters, Leah who is five years old and Lauren who is 2 years old. She and her husband also have a weinheimer dog named Sammy. Fulton said one of her favorite hobbies is to walk Sammy on the Stark Park Trails. She and her husband walk three or four miles every day with their dog and sometimes with their granddaughters.

Fulton also enjoys gardening and has a large vegetable garden she works with over the summer. She plays golf, teaches at summer Bible school and volunteers with Camp Read a Lot at her church.

A co-worker of Fulton’s, Flo Rankin, said she is very outgoing, vivacious and charismatic. Rankin is the high school librarian and has worked with Fulton for many years.

“Betty is a happy go lucky person with a touch of seriousness, she takes education serious,” Rankin said.

Fulton has dedicated her life to education in North CantonCOVER STORY

School Board Pres

Together with believing in public education, Fulton really takes notice of people who go above and beyond what is expected of them as teachers. Those two reasons along with her passion for education form the foundation for why she wanted to be a member of the board of education.

“I care about what happens to the kids at North Canton schools. I do have a passion for education and doing what’s best for the kids. My happiest times in my life include watching graduation and seeing the kids get their senior awards every year,” Fulton said.

She also spends time with her favorite causes. Her step-son has multiple sclerosis (MS) and she gets involved when she can. She also feels it’s important to get the word out about how good public education is and encourages everyone to visit www.ohiocoalition.org to learn about equity and adequacy for school funding.

The other things that make her the happiest is spending time with her family. She and her husband have an RV and they spend a lot of time traveling together.

“I would be lost without my family. They are everything to me and I’m passionate about them too,” Fulton said.

Betty J. Fulton has been on the board of education at North Canton City Schools since 2012 and was elected president of the board for 2014.

Betty J. Fulton, board president of North Canton City Schools Board of Education, loves to spend time with her dog, Sammy.


Dr . Roden

situations with the children in your life and show them how to honor their convictions. For example, “What would you do if you witnessed someone being bullied on the playground?”

Accept responsibility for their actions. We all make messes occasionally. The important factors involve taking responsibility, apologizing when necessary, learning and resolving to improve. Rationalizing, half-truths and lying are not acceptable.

Ask for help when they need it. Children need to know that there are times when they need to seek help from parents, teachers, friends, counselors, etc. There are issues in life which they should not try to handle alone.

Thank those who help them achieve their goals. The simple words we learned as children are still “magic”—please and thank you. Great leaders know on whose shoulders they stand to be where they are today.

“Walk with the Boss” and do what you can to nurture the youth leaders in your life. We can work together to make our community—and the rest of the world—a little more caring and a lot stronger. •

Dr. Bob Roden Staff Writer

North Canton has a heritage of strong leadership in families, government, schools, YMCA, faith communities, service clubs and business. This legacy is originated with William Henry “Boss” Hoover who provided an example for all of us to follow: family man, businessman, mayor, minister. The plaque accompanying his sculpture in Bitzer Park states, “A man of simple tastes, Mr. Hoover enjoyed evening and Sunday afternoon walks around town —inviting children and friends to join him for lively discussion. His ability for mentoring others throughout his lifetime is depicted in this monument, “A Walk with the Boss…”

As we reflect on current and past community leadership, it is vital to consider how we will cultivate the next generation of innovators and trail blazers. Consider the children in your life: your own children, grandchildren, neighborhood children, kids on community sports teams, high school arts, youth groups, etc. Do the children in your life believe they have the potential to lead their own lives and inspire others? How can we “walk with the boss” and mentor the children in our lives?

All children have potential for leadership. The opportunity lies in helping them discover and nurture that potential.

Schools, faith communities, arts programs, sports and other activities can work with parents and extended families to provide consistent leadership teaching/coaching. Consider some attributes of excellent leaders to assist all of us in helping our children discover their leadership capabilities.

Quality leaders:Believe in themselves—they

know they have value. Children are true Masterpieces: works of art in process. Make sure they realize that by nourishing their special gifts/talents and helping them discover their

passion. Have confidence in their abilities.

This trait flourishes when children are expected to consistently follow through on responsibilities. Help them develop confidence by encouraging hard work and reinforcing jobs that are well done—especially if the tasks are outside their comfort zone. Never do anything for children that they can do on their own.

Understand the importance of communication. Support them in developing the vital art of listening. Encourage them to “use their words” in expressing themselves clearly and appropriately. Read to/with them and ask open-ended questions.

Are you not afraid of making mistakes? Reinforce the importance of taking chances and using errors in judgment as the best learning opportunities. We can model this by admitting our own imperfections/missteps, taking responsibility and cleaning up our own messes.

Care and serve. The best leaders have an enduring concern about others. Encourage children to serve. Start with simple “acts of kindness”: hugs, smiles, active listening, etc. Volunteer in schools and other youth serving organizations. Discover service opportunities to accomplish as a family, within neighborhoods and in the broader community.

Set goals and make choices that will help achieve those goals. In academics, sports, arts or their spiritual life, encourage goal setting—doing a little better next time. Quality practice makes perfect. Help children to understand that small steps are necessary to achieve great goals.

Choose a positive attitude. Everybody has bad days, but quality leaders try to maintain a positive approach to life. They know that no one can make us angry—we choose anger.

Stand up for what they believe—even when it is difficult. Children need to develop a strong sense of character and integrity. Discuss hypothetical

Walk with the Boss and learn to develop leadership skillsDR. RODEN


Cultural Corner

Students learn more that music at Lesson CenterCULTURAL CORNERBy Dawn LaRay Campanelli Staff Writer

Music brings people of all ages together. Some historians believe that every culture has had some form of music dating back 50,000 years. That tradition continues today in North Canton at The Main Street Lesson Center.

Throughout the week, the acoustic sounds of strumming guitars, the harmonious notes from the ivory keys of the piano, the up-tempo beat from percussion instruments and the melodic vocals of aspiring singers can be heard from its location at 1664 North Main Street near the Dairy Queen.

First opened in 2005, the Center helps students of all ages find and develop their inner talent in vocal and instrumental musical arts. Currently, 100 students between the ages of 4 and 83 actively participate in lessons. They are enthusiastic about adding their talents to the rich culture of the community through performance arts. For the past 10 years, student Kristo Pantelides has been studying music at the Center, most recently taking guitar lessons. “I would recommend them with the highest esteem,” he said.

“Our instructors have more than 178 years of experience in live performance and working in recording studios,” said proprietor Mike Rasicci, who highlighted that its studio offers comfortable ventilated, well-lit practice areas.

Understanding that the main reason students want to learn how to master an instrument is their desire to learn to play their favorite song, Rasicci and his colleagues have redefined the way that they teach to ensure that students maintain their love of music. In addition to Rasicci, instructors include Chris Watts, Matt Vic, Rik Cunningham, Mark Thomas, Jessie Frank and Judy

Warren. Whether they are providing lessons in voice, piano, bass and electric guitar, drums, percussion, trumpet, flute or strings, they focus first on helping students play songs then mix music theory into the process. “We want students to enjoy music,” said Watts. “We want them to have as much fun as possible.”

What could be more fun than combining your talents with others to form a performing band? Through the Center’s unique Rock Camp designed for a small ensembles of guitarists, bassists, keyboardists and drummers, students are invited to audition for the band. They work together in additional to their private lessons to play songs from the 1950’s through current Top 40 favorites. “From a practical standpoint, we teach the students how to gain compensation from their talents by understanding what consumers what to hear at weddings and private parties,” added Rasicci. “When we go out into the community to play, students learn to set up the equipment, the sound system and gain experience interacting with people to meet their expectations.”

The most recent group formed through Rock Camp is the Generation Gap band. The group has been very successful and showcases students

quarterly in various venues around North Canton. Most recently they have played at the North Canton Playhouse, local car shows and last year’s North Canton Community Sing & Christmas Tree Lighting. Throughout the recent graduation season, the band entertained crowds at various members’ parties. You can hear a recent practice session of the group on The Main Street Lesson Center Facebook page.

Over the last decade, students from The Main Street Lesson Center have chosen a music career and a couple have been finalists in the Canton Idol competition. “Music teaches students more than just music. Music teaches students about life and how to solve problems,” added Rasicci. “The majority of our students go on to get advanced degrees at the college level in many different fields. Regardless of the path they choose, they typically continue playing even if they do not choose music as a career” continuing the tradition of helping future cultures appreciate the value of music in the life of a community.

To join in on the fun, new students can contact The Main Street Lesson Center at 330-494-8110. Office hours are Monday through Thursday 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., or by appointment. •

“Music teaches students more than just music. Music

teaches students about life and how to solve problems,”

- Mike Rasicci

The Main Street Lesson Center was formed in 2005 by proprietor Mike Rasicci.

Student Kristo Pantelides (left) enjoys

taking guitar lessons from instructor Chris

Watts at The Main Street Lesson Center

in North Canton.


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Our Town Cooks

Refreshing, fruity chicken saladOUR TOWN COOKSBy Tammy Proctor Staff Writer

We had an inside family joke that I could serve the nastiest bologna on a croissant and our children believed they were dining on a gourmet meal. They loved buttery croissants.

This chicken salad recipe, a family favorite, is absolutely delicious served on croissants. When family comes into town, I make this ahead of time and it’s perfect for lunches.

This recipe is not definitive. Everything is to taste. Our family doesn’t like a heavy mayonnaise taste. I use real mayo or light mayo. Don’t be afraid to

experiment with this recipe. As a time-saver in the

kitchen, purchase a rotisserie chicken and strip away the meat. If time isn’t an issue, bake bone-in chicken breasts, or boil a chicken. Just make certain the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Mix together: 4 cups cooked chicken¾ cup mayo1 tsp. brown mustard1 tsp. Truvia3 Tbsp. milk¼ cup dried cranberries (or

sugar free cranraisins)1/8 cup slivered almonds

(using the honey sweetened

almonds is best in this recipe)

1 cup seedless grapes, cut in half (green or red grapes add nice color to the salad)

The amounts listed above can be adjusted to taste. I sprinkle in the Truvia (you can use sugar) to sweeten the mayo taste. To help coat the chicken, I add milk one teaspoon at a time so the mayo is diluted and coats the chicken easily.

This recipe actually flavors best when refrigerated overnight.

This recipe is a tasty success served on mini-croissants for brunches with a side of fresh fruit. •


By Alyssa West Staff Writer

Adventure, magic, history and danger are what local North Canton author Sean McCartney has brought to life in his book series “The

Treasure Hunters Club.” McCartney’s series currently

features two short novels, “The Treasure Hunters Club: Secret of the Magical Medallions” and “The Treasure Hunters Club: Breaking the Beal Code.” There are also two stand alone short stories that are an extension of “The Treasure Hunters Club” series, “The Ten Cent Treasure” and “A Diamond in Afghanistan.”

The series along with the two short stories follows a group of four middle school friends as they escape their everyday problems through their search for adventure and treasure. The series is a perfect easy summer read for young teens.

McCartney is a graduate of GlenOak High School and current Plain Local School employee. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Alfred University in New York in 1993, McCartney traveled the world for two years as a member of the Washington Generals playing against the Harlem Globetrotters. McCartney continued his education and earned his Masters in Education in 1996. Despite his inevitable losing record with the Washington Generals, he continues his love of basketball as the current Canton South boy’s assistant varsity coach.

Through his experiences in the classroom and on the basketball court, McCartney aimed to create a book series that would encourage young reluctant teens to enjoy reading. Each of the books is tailored to be a short, easy, action packed read. McCartney explained that he hoped this style of writing for his novels would capture the young reader’s attention so they would continue to read and

enjoy it. The series is described as “a cross between the Hardy Boys and Indiana Jones with a touch of National Treasure.” “ The Treasure Hunters Club” series is also designed for implementation in the classroom. A free Teacher’s Guide is available on the Treasure Hunters Club website and adheres to the National Standards.

“The Treasure Hunters Club: Secrets of the Magical Medallions”, the first novel in the series, introduces the group of four middle school friends. The story follows them as they create their club to search for adventure and escape from their everyday issues. Issues McCartney believes are relatable to the young readers. Tommy Reed is the main character of the series and ring leader of the group. His uncle, Diamond Jack, is a famous treasure hunter and inspiration for the treasure hunters club. Characters Jack Miller, Shannon McDougal and Chris Henderson complete the group. McCartney said he created each of the characters and made them all unique with the hope that the reader can identify with one of them and see themselves as the hero in the story. While the characters are not modeled after a specific individual, McCartney

said they are a mix of qualities of past students and friends he grew up with. “My favorite character is Tommy, not just because he is the main character but he is the one I most identify with,” says McCartney. The group of young teens continues their adventures in the second novel, “The Treasure Hunters Club: Breaking the Beal Code”. The two short stories add to the groups adventures.

The release of the two novels in “The Treasure Hunters” book series has been a success. McCartney shared that he has plotted out for about 12 books in the series, so the adventures are sure to continue.

For more information about Sean Paul McCartney and “The Treasure Hunters Club” book series, you can visit www.treasurehuntersclubbook.com. The web site contains more detailed information about the series and reviews, along with teacher guides and video trailers. All four of McCartney’s works are available for purchase.

McCartney and his wife Lori reside in North Canton with their children, Jonah and Julia. •

North Canton resident pens short novels for childrenLITERARY NEWS

Author McCartney

“My favorite character is Tommy, not just because he is

the main character but he is the one I most identify with,”

- Sean McCartney.


Author McCartney

330-497-90006811 WISE AVENUE, NORTH CANTON

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!


pays for uniforms for many of Hoover’s sports teams. He also said the middle school gym is in good shape as well.

Last year, North Canton’s youth basketball program found itself in a pickle when the former high school on Charlotte Street was torn down. This tear down took away a much needed basketball court for the youth teams to accommodate an in-house basketball program.

“There has been talk about the need for additional basketball courts,” said Shimek. “But there are no definite plans.”

Finally, Shimek discussed the community partners that step forward to keep Hoover’s athletic facilities competitive with the rest of the Federal League.

“Many of the upgrades have been made through the generosity and hard work on the part of private donors, the Hoover Foundation and the Hoover sideliners.”

*Editor’s note: As noted in past Our Town articles, the former Hoover Co. donated significant land and partnered with North Canton City Schools. •

By Dan Mucci, Editor

North Canton Hoover athletics regularly compete for the Federal League All-Sports trophy continuing to win league championships, district and regional championships including a couple of state titles.

Behind each championship are quality coaching, hardworking athletes and outstanding facilities. North Canton Athletic Director Don Shimek discusses Hoover’s current facilities and what may need improved in the future.

“I would rate our athletic facilities as very good,” said Shimek. “There is always room for improvement, but we also have a lot of community members that take pride in and support upgrades to our facilities.”

Memorial Stadium, home to North Canton’s football team, lacrosse team and track teams, was built in 1946.

“This is one area where we will be focusing our attention in the future,” said the leader of the orange and black’s sports programs. “The track was resurfaced in 2011. The scoreboard and sound system upgraded in 2012. The press box and infrastructure/shell of the home side of the stadium need upgrades.”

When pressed a little more, Shimek elaborated on Memorial Stadium.

“There is no timeline on the upgrades to the home side stands at

Memorial Stadium,” said Shimek. “We need to look at concrete work. The home side press box needs to be more modern. …the last upgrades to the stadium and press box were made in the early 1990s.”

The gym, which will be home to new boys coach Todd Blackledge and the girls 2014 Division I state runner-up Lady Vikings, was repainted in 2012. The wrestling team also has matches in the gym as well the volleyball teams.

Moving outside, we discussed through email the baseball and softball facilities.

“The baseball field is in good shape with a new indoor facility with batting cages being completed,” said Shimek. “There are no plans to add lights.”

“The softball team just recently built a new facility and is in good shape.”

Unlike most schools, where the soccer team shares a field with the football team, North Canton’s soccer teams have their own fields. “The soccer teams play on their own grass field just southwest of Memorial Stadium,” said Shimek. “A new drainage system was just installed last summer.”

The Vikings are in the process of resurfacing the tennis courts.

“The tennis courts are being resurfaced this summer,” said Shimek. “This is being done in partnership with North Canton City, North Canton City Schools and private donors.”

The boys and girls swim teams practice and hold meets at the North Canton YMCA.

As part of the athletic department’s budget, Shimek said his department

Hoover athletic facilities top notch - Memorial Stadium renovation on horizonSPORTS

“I would rate our athletic facilities as very good. There is always room for improvement,

but we also have a lot of community members that take pride in and support upgrades

to our facilities,”- North Canton Athletic Director Don Shimek.

JULY SPORTS• July 12 - East/West football

game• July 17 to 19 - Erie vs. Akron• July 29 to 31 - The Indians vs.

Seattle

Sports


Sports


CR Rae Staff Writer

Here is an opportunity to teach your children a little about Ohio history without them even knowing they are learning something. This summer take in the outdoor drama “Tecumseh!” in Chillicothe.

With horses galloping up and down the aisles, cannons being shot off, people swimming in the river and falling off cliffs--the kids will be so involved they will not realize they are really learning about the history of Ohio.

In the forest of Southern Ohio, the story of “Tecumseh!” comes to life in the Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre. It takes more than 100 people to make the drama come to life. Sitting under the stars with cannons firing over your head, horses galloping by and the sounds of battle will give you the real feel of the history of the late 1700’s.

This is a great trip for those students going into the fourth grade as they will be studying Ohio history during the school year. You can make the trip into a pre-history tour of Ohio. It is possible to take in the Rankin House, located on the Ohio River in Ripley, part of the Underground Railroad and the Serpent Mounds in Peebles and still include “Tecumseh!”

It can be done in one day--no worries the kids will sleep on the way home or sleep over and take in more of the rich Ohio history of the area.

“Techemsuh!” is an exciting drama telling the story of the Indian nation that created an impact on all of America. To really experience the drama, take the behind the scenes tour before the show. You will see all the “ins and outs” of how the show takes shape. It is fun, interesting, humorous and educational. By doing the tour, the kids will be excited to point out the things they had learned on the tour throughout the performance. It is the “tell all” from how the costume changes take place to where the blood comes from. The members of the cast enjoy answering questions. Find out just what is shot out of the barrels of those rifles and how they are loaded. During the tour, stunt men demonstrate fighting and just how to make that sound of body-to-body contact that appears to be so real during the show. It is best to make reservations for the backstage tour when you purchase tickets for the show. There are two times for the tours.

No need to worry about dinner between the behind the scenes tour and the performance--the Terrace Buffet offers dinner that includes fried chicken, ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, salad bar, breads,

desserts and more. The buffet is available from 4:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.

Also available is the Snack Shack with pizza, popcorn, pretzels, etc. open at 4 p.m. through intermission.

Following the performance, the actors will be available for a meet and greet for autographs and photos.

There is also a Living History tour available that gives a deeper insight into the lives of the characters in “Tecumseh!”

Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheater will give you a unique experience. The first performance was in 1973 and Tecumseh! continues to amaze audiences more than 2.5 million viewers later.

To learn more about the history of the area and things to do, visit www.ohiohistory.org. For more information, times, prices and to make reservations, visit www.tecumsehdrama.com.

The Serpent Mound is located at 3850 State Route 73, Peebles, 45660. The Rankin House is located at 6152 Rankin Road, Ripley, 45167, (turn up the hill at 500 N. Second Street). Both places are on www.ohiohistory.org. •

Tecumseh is fun way to learn about Ohio’s historyTRAVEL

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