Take a look at our July newsletter!
JULY 2024
BE SMART, GET RINEHARDT Rinehardt Law | RinehardtLawFirm.com | 419-LAW-2020
SUMMER CAMP MEMORIES
FROM CAMPER TO COUNSELOR
As the July sun beats down on Ohio, my mind drifts back to Chardon and the magical summers I spent at Camp Wise. For me, camp wasn’t just a break from school — it was a transformative experience that shaped the person I am today, both professionally and personally. I still remember my first summer as a camper, a shy 8-year-old with a tangle of unruly curls and a suitcase full of nerves. That first night, homesickness threatened to overwhelm me, but my counselor, Amanda, sat with me until the tears subsided, sharing stories of her own first-year jitters. It was a small act of kindness that I never forgot, and one that I would later pay forward as a counselor myself. As the years passed, Camp Wise became my second home. I looked forward to escaping the pressures of school and societal expectations, diving into a world where I could be unapologetically myself. Whether I was belting out silly songs at the top of my lungs during meal times or conquering my fear of heights on the ropes course, camp was where I discovered my voice and my courage.
Returning as a counselor during my college years opened up a whole new dimension of camp life. Suddenly, I was the one comforting homesick campers, mediating bunk disputes, and cheering on hesitant swimmers. Each age group brought its own challenges and rewards. The wide-eyed wonder of the youngest campers as they mastered their first friendship bracelet was just as rewarding as helping a teenager navigate their first crush. One summer stands out in particular — the year I worked with the 13- and 14-year-old girls. As someone who had struggled with self- confidence at that age, I was determined to create a safe space for these young women to explore their identities. We had late-night discussions about body image, peer pressure, and future aspirations. The magic of Camp Wise was its ability to strip away our “real world” personas. Free from the constraints of social media and societal expectations, we could explore new interests and develop genuine confidence. I took pride in encouraging young girls to push their boundaries, whether it was tackling the climbing wall or speaking up in group discussions. Now, as a stepmom to an 11-year-old girl, I strive to re-create that supportive environment at home, encouraging my stepdaughter to embrace her authentic self. My experiences at Camp Wise continue to inform my approach to both law and family life. The empathy I cultivated at camp helps me connect with clients on a human level, understanding their fears and advocating for their needs. Those summers at Camp Wise were more than just fond memories — they were the foundation for my professional and personal growth. To those considering sending their children to camp, know that you’re giving them more than just a fun summer — you’re providing them with invaluable life lessons and memories that will last a lifetime. – Rachel
Rachel (top left) and her sister Hannah (top right) were co-counselors to this group of kiddos at Camp Wise 2016.
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The Enchantment of Fireflies NATURE’S SUMMER LIGHT SHOW
Tips for Attracting Fireflies to Your Backyard To enjoy the magic of fireflies in your own backyard, consider creating a firefly- friendly environment:
Fireworks are cool, but for John, the flickering glow of fireflies on a warm summer night is even more captivating. As a kid, he and his brother would chase fireflies and capture them in jars to marvel at their soft, mesmerizing light. Today, Hillary often finds John quiet on the back porch in the dark staring out at the magical display of lights in the dark sky. These tiny insects, also known as lightning bugs, transform ordinary nights into extraordinary light shows. But what makes these creatures glow, and why are they so important to our ecosystem? Let’s explore the science and charm of fireflies. The Science Behind the Glow Fireflies produce light through a fascinating chemical reaction known as bioluminescence. Inside their abdomens, they have specialized cells that contain luciferin, a light-emitting molecule, and luciferase, an enzyme that triggers the reaction. When oxygen combines with these substances, it produces light without generating heat — a phenomenon scientists call “cold light.”
This bioluminescence serves several purposes. Primarily, fireflies use their glow to attract mates. Each species has its own unique flashing pattern, acting as a coded language that helps males and females of the same species find each other. Additionally, the light may serve as a warning to predators, signaling that fireflies are unpalatable due to certain chemicals they contain.
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Turn off exterior lights — Fireflies use their light to communicate, and artificial lights can disrupt this process. Plant native trees and shrubs — These provide essential habitat for fireflies and their prey. Avoid pesticides — Pesticides can harm fireflies and their larvae. Create a water source — Fireflies thrive in moist environments, so consider adding a garden pond or leaving a shallow dish of water.
The Role of Fireflies in the Ecosystem
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Beyond their enchanting displays, fireflies play a crucial role in the ecosystem. As both larvae and adults, they help control pest populations by preying on other insects. Moreover, their presence indicates a healthy environment. Fireflies thrive in areas with clean water, abundant vegetation, and minimal light pollution. Unfortunately, firefly populations are declining worldwide due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and light pollution. Conserving their habitats is vital not only for preserving these natural light shows but also for maintaining the ecological balance they support.
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The enchantment of fireflies is a timeless reminder of nature’s wonders. So, the next time you find yourself outside on a warm summer night, take a moment to enjoy the natural light show provided by these extraordinary insects.
Hidden Hollow Camp: Mansfield’s Best-Kept Secret!
John attended Hidden Hollow as a boy, and so did all three Rinehardt kids. Hidden Hollow Camp is located in Bellville, Ohio, at 5127 Possum Run Road. The camp office is only open during the camp season. It is owned and operated by The Friendly House Association of Mansfield. Its mission is to provide camping programs to its immediate neighborhood and community at a cost that everyone can afford. One of the best parts of Hidden Hollow is that campers get to learn how to be independent! Campers get to choose which activity they would like to go to at each activity period.
They can go to an activity with their new friends or their bunk mates. Campers engage in a variety of choice activities that are unique to the camp like archery, arts and crafts, drama, horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, woodshop, and more! HHC runs for six weeks this summer, plus three days of Jr. Camp. Campers must be between the ages of 8–15. The last week of camp is open for campers ages 10–15 only. Jr. Camp is for campers ages 6–8 who have never been to camp before, and all 6-year- olds must have completed kindergarten.
As of the time this article was written, there were still openings for several weeks at the end of July and the beginning of August. Fees for camp in 2024 are $450 per child/ week for weeks 1-6, and $150 for Jr. Camp per child. Camperships/scholarships are available to Richland County, Ohio, residents only and for those families who meet the financial requirements.
Check it out at HiddenHollowCamp.org .
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Summer Camp Is Good for Your Child’s Development
Grilled Za’atar Chicken With Garlic Yogurt and Cilantro
The Rinehardt kids started going to sleepover camp for three weeks of the summer when they were 8 years old. Hillary and John had great experiences as overnight campers as kids, and they wanted Aaron, Rachel, and Hannah to share that experience. Summer camp is more than just a fun getaway for kids —it’s a valuable opportunity for growth and development. From building social skills to fostering independence, the benefits of summer camp are extensive and impactful. Building Social Skills One of the most significant benefits of summer camp is the opportunity for children to develop social skills. In a camp setting, kids interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, learning to communicate, cooperate, and resolve conflicts. These interactions help children build friendships and develop essential social skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. Fostering Independence Summer camp provides a safe environment for children to become more independent. Away from the familiar comforts of home, kids learn to take care of themselves, make decisions, and solve problems on their own. These experiences build self-reliance and confidence, essential traits for personal growth. Promoting Physical Activity In today’s digital age, it’s more important than ever for kids to engage in physical activity. Summer camp offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and swimming to team sports and adventure challenges. These activities promote physical fitness, healthy habits, and a love for the outdoors. Most camps require campers to leave their devices at the door. Enhancing Emotional Well-Being Summer camp also plays a vital role in enhancing children’s emotional well-being. The supportive camp environment allows kids to express themselves, try new things, and face challenges without fear of judgment. This freedom fosters resilience, self-esteem, and a positive outlook on life. The benefits of summer camp extend far beyond the fun and games. By building social skills, fostering independence, promoting physical activity, and enhancing emotional well-being, summer camp provides a holistic development experience for children. As parents and campers alike attest, the positive impact of camp can be life-changing, setting the foundation for a brighter, more confident future. As you plan for the summer, consider the invaluable experiences and growth opportunities that summer camp can offer your child. It’s an investment in their development that will reap benefits for years to come.
This is Hillary and John’s favorite recipe this summer. Marinate the meat overnight for best results, but a couple of hours will do. Be sure to make extra because the leftover chicken is great sliced on a salad for lunch the next day. You can broil the chicken instead of grilling, but if you do, line your sheet pan with aluminum foil for easier clean-up.
INGREDIENTS
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6 garlic cloves, finely grated, pressed, or minced
• 1 1/2 lemons, zested • 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt (we use Greek yogurt) • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • 1 1/2 tbsp za’atar (you can find this in the spice section of the grocery store) • 1 tbsp oregano or marjoram • 1 3/4 tsp salt • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper • 2 1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large bowl or container, stir together 5 of the garlic cloves, half the lemon zest, 1/3 cup yogurt, the cilantro, oil, za’atar, oregano or marjoram, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. 2. When ready to cook, light the grill to medium or heat your broiler with the rack 3 inches from the heat source. Remove chicken from bowl, shaking off any excess marinade, and grill or broil on one side until charred in spots, 5–8 minutes. Flip the chicken and grill or broil for another 5–8 minutes, until just cooked through. 3. While the chicken is cooking, place remaining 2/3 cup yogurt in a small bowl. Stir in the reserve grated garlic clove and 1 tsp lemon zest, and season to taste with salt and pepper. 4. To serve, place chicken on a serving platter and drizzle with olive oil and a large squeeze of the zested lemon. Top with extra cilantro sprigs if desired and serve with yogurt sauce.
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2404 Park Ave. W., Mansfield, OH 44906 419-LAW-2020 BeSmartLegal.com
INSIDE THIS EDITION
Thank you to everyone who entered our summer photo contest! We were thrilled to receive so many wonderful submissions showcasing the beauty and joy of the summer season. Grand Prize Winner The Grand Prize winner of a $100 Amazon gift card is Stacie Shoemaker for her heartwarming photo of @OhBellaGirl. Bella, a charming dog with a lot of personality, waits by the pool every spring, eagerly anticipating the moment she can dive in as soon as the temperature rises. Bella’s aversion to the cold stems from her arthritis, a result of a broken paw. Be sure to check her out on Instagram for more adorable photos! Honorable Mention Honorable mention goes to Carter Townsend , a talented teacher, author, and photographer. Her captivating photograph taken at Muir Woods captured the serene beauty of the ancient redwoods, reminding us of the simple joys found in nature. 1 Growing Up at Camp Wise 2 Make Your Yard Firefly Friendly Check Out This Summer Camp in Bellville 3 Reasons to Enroll Kids in Summer Camp Grilled Za’atar Chicken With Garlic Yogurt and Cilantro 4 The Results of Our Summer Photo Contest Are In Announcing Our Summer Photo Contest Winners!
Congratulations Stacie and Carter! Your photos have brought smiles to our faces and captured the essence of summer beautifully.
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