Preservation Parks wouldn't be where it is without our cadre of dedicated volunteers. Each month, we honor one of the volunteers with our thanks and a chance to tell us a little about him- or herself.

John and Jan Brinkerhoff

Resides in: Ostrander, Ohio

Originally from: Both Jan and John are from Cleveland; Jan from the west side, John from Geauga County

Children: Two stepchildren -- Louis, a telecommunications engineer living in Virginia, near Washington, D.C., and Jenny, a hospital physician recruiter living in Logan, Ohio. One son, our youngest, Brian, who works at Checkfree in Dublin, Ohio and lives in Raymond, near Marysville

Occupation: Jan and John met at American Greetings in Cleveland, where Jan was the Humor Editor. Since then, she has managed a bookstore and a travel agency. She currently is the registrar for the Arts Castle (Delaware County Cultural Arts Center).

John retired after a 33-year career at Lord, Sullivan & Yoder Advertising, where he was a copywriter, creative director and Senior V.P. He currently does periodic freelance writing for several area organizations.

Q:  What is your favorite Preservation Park? Why?

A:  Gallant Woods Preserve because of its variety, from open space to heavily wooded areas. Also because of Jan's fondness for Charlotte Gallant, whose girlhood home this preserve was.

Q:  What's your favorite spot in the park?

A:  The Acorn Trail. It's a short walk, but very peaceful and shadowy.

Q:  How did you get involved with the park district?

A:  We were fortunate enough to be involved in the effort to procure the first levy that helped bring Preservation Parks to its present form. We've been involved ever since, though not as deeply as some of the other very dedicated volunteers. This is a terrific organization with a great staff and a mission that becomes more important with every family farm that becomes development property.

Q:  What do you do for fun?

A:  We read, write, travel and spend as much time as we can with the young ones, grandchildren, and now great-grandchildren.

Q:  Favorite travel destination?

A:  The British Isles, England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales. We never get tired of roaming around there, and have had some hilarious encounters. A close second is the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Our family has been gathering there every summer for more than 30 years.

Q:  If you like road trips, describe your favorite.

A:  The trips to Virginia, or North Carolina

Q:  What's the last book you read?

A:  John "The Lions of Medina"
      Jan "The Stolen Child"

Q:  What's your favorite restaurant?

A:  Doc Henderson's in Marysville