Thomas Jesson:  

Born in Marion, OH. Family moved to Caledonia in 1960, where I started the fourth grade at Caledonia Elementary. Then Junior High at Clarendon, and finally at River Valley. During my senior year in high school, spent my afternoons working at the Southland Mall Sears Display department. This was due to me being in Deca classes at River Valley. Must have put the bug in me for art and displays in my future at that time and didn’t know it. After graduating in 1971, received a draft number (#61) from the selective service. Didn't like my odds, so I enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in December. Went to basic training on Groundhog's Day, 1972. Became a Graphics Illustrator in the Audiovisual field, and spent the next 20+ years in the Air Force. Spent my last five years with the Air Force Orientation Group, the the official exhibit branch of the Air Force. Retired in June of 1992 as a Master Sergeant (E7). Have been stationed in Ohio, South Korea, South Dakota, Hawaii, Oklahoma, Republic of Turkey, Virginia, and back to Ohio in that order. Really miss Hawaii...could have stayed there the rest of my life! Made many close friends there who were locals. Ran two Honolulu Marathons, and was 1980 Hawaii State Champion in Novice Dance (roller skating). Hanging out and skating at t...Expand for more