Ohio corn maze clears way to Pearl Harbor

Niederman Family Farm's Harvest Moon fall activities have been opening new pastures for Americans of all ages for many years. But it's not just a corn maze, it's a surround sound, panoramic view affecting all five senses as the fall harvest is supposed to do.

It's an American custom to celebrate and give thanks during autumn. In honor of this tradition, the Niederman family creates a theme for their corn maze and 265 acres of farm festivities that raises recognition for something deserving in their community.

"This year, our 22-acre corn maze will pay tribute to the Lakota Thunderhawks School Band and help send 200 students to perform at Pearl Harbor over Thanksgiving," said Bethann Niederman. "They will be accompanied by an honorable guest and local World War II veteran who was there when the Japanese bombed more than 65 years ago."

As a tribute, Niederman Family Farm is pulling out all the stops for their Sept. 12 through Nov. 1 Harvest Moon season. Although it has long grown from a local to regional attraction for its many offerings, it wasn't always that way.

Although this farm family adapts to their and others' needs and wants, above all, they want to be entertaining and educational in addition to being helpful. As a farming family since 1948, they have created much to share.

The Fall 2008 Harvest Moon activities on Niederman Family Farm include farm tours, horse and tractor drawn hayrides, picking your own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch, massive playground and plenty of exciting activities, seeing the livestock, exploring the corn maze by day or flashlight, bonfire pits, barn rentals, paintball courses, and even a cozy bed and breakfast inn.

"Many children and their families are now generations removed from the farm and take for granted the significance agriculture plays in our lives," said Bethann Niederman. "We bring this education to people, both kids and adults, in a very entertaining way."

One of the favorite pastimes is a long hayride on a lazy autumn afternoon. Halfway is a stop at the pumpkin patch. Last spring, school groups from all over Southwest Ohio planted pumpkin seeds in the pumpkin patch. Now it's time to harvest those pumpkins. Pick your own and carve it up. Who knows, it may be the one you planted. Oh, and there are plenty of barnyard animals to entertain children of all ages. In the evening, gather around a bon fire pit and cozy up with family and friends for stories, a weenie roast and s'mores. You can even take home fresh kettle-corn, cotton candy, caramel apples and plenty other fall treats.

"Our nostalgic look at the American farm is slow-paced and relaxing. It is a fun opportunity for everyone in the family to reunite and really connect," said Bethann Niederman. "And it's not just for kids. Family reunions, group retreats and corporate team building exercises are often held here as well. We have very unique accommodations that include a restored 1890s barn with modern amenities or a bon-fire pit area to host groups up to 300 people."

If one day isn't long enough to take in the relaxing sights and sounds of farm life, stay a night at the Gregory Creek Inn Bed and Breakfast located at the farm.

Group accommodations are routinely made for families, Mom's clubs, school groups, day care centers and home school groups.

Niederman Family Farm is conveniently located near I-75 between Cincinnati and Dayton at 5110 LeSourdesville-West Chester Road in Liberty Township. Call 513-779-6184 or visit www.niedermanfamilyfarm.com for more information.