With the celebration of Independence Day, I am not afraid to admit that our family is patriotic. Our flag flies 24 hours, seven days a week to show gratitude for the freedom that we do not take for granted. I am reminded of a quote by Thomas Jefferson which states, “How little do my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy!”
Indeed, many of us take our freedom for granted, perhaps because we have never been without it during our lifetime. George Washington observed, “A primary object should be the education of our youth in the science of government. And what duty more pressing than communicating it to those who are to be the future guardians of the liberties of the country?”
A few years ago, I heard a question posed about how many Americans could actually pass the test that is given to become a citizen of the United States. Being curious how I would fare, I took a sample test online, and while I passed, I felt that I should have known more. I resolved that I would read the U.S. Constitution again. When was the last time you read the Constitution and Bill of Rights?
With so many flags displayed for Independence Day, it is a good time to review flag etiquette. Are you aware that if a flag is hanging overnight, it should be lit? For a full list of flag etiquette rules, visit this page.
In 1984, President Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month and the third Sunday of the month as National Ice Cream Day. The Brimfield Police Department is inviting the community to join it from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 8 at Frank’s Ice Cream to enjoy an ice cream cone and conversation with officers and K-9 Recon. The first 50 children under age 18 will receive a free small soft-serve cone.
Good news! The Brimfest Veterans Parade returns this year at noon Saturday, Sept. 23. Everyone is encouraged to participate and be part of the fun. Registrations to participate in the parade are now being accepted here.
Veterans, veterans groups, first responders, bands, school and local groups, churches, organizations, businesses, horses and equestrian groups, active military members, antique car owners, car clubs, motorcyclists, farmers and their equipment, and more are invited to participate in the parade. For registration questions, call 330-678-0739 ext. 1470, or email [email protected]. Other parade-related questions can be directed to Mary Ridenour at 330-240-1226 or by email at [email protected].
With summer in full swing, there are a lot of happenings in Brimfield. Be sure to mark your calendars so you don’t miss the fun.
Brimfield Parks and Recreation
July Programs & Events:
Sat., July 8, 8:30 p.m. – Summer Outdoor Movie (starts at 9 p.m.): Finding Nemo 20th Anniversary at Lions Community Park (4484 Edson Rd.). Bring chairs, blankets and snacks for this free event.
Mon., July 10, 1:30-3:30 p.m. – Fossils for Kids at the Brimfield Community Center, outside (4538 Edson Rd.). Learn about Ohio fossils and other pieces of the past and how to find them, then search for fossils in the park. All ages are welcome, but the program is recommended for children ages 5 and over. Children must be accompanied by an adult (no drop-offs). Sunscreen, bug spray and sun-protective clothing recommended.
Fri., July 21, 7-9 p.m. – Summer Concert featuring the American Steal Band at the Brimfield Historical Society (4158 State Route 43). Bring your family and friends, lawn chairs and snacks for a free outdoor summer concert featuring this local band.
August Programs & Events:
Thurs., Aug. 10, 7-9 p.m. — Summer Concert featuring The Boomers at the Brimfield Historical Society (4158 State Route 43). Bring your family and friends, lawn chairs and snacks for this free outdoor summer concert featuring this local band.
Sat., Aug. 12, 10:30 a.m. – Kids Concert featuring kids’ musician Mr. Jeff at Lions Community Park (4484 Edson Rd.). Kids and their families are invited to enjoy this special free summer concert.
Fri., Aug. 25, 7-9 p.m. – Summer Concert featuring the Time Machine Band at the Brimfield Historical Society (4158 State Route 43). Bring your family and friends, lawn chairs and snacks for this free summer concert.
September Programs & Events:
Fri., Sept. 22, 4:30-10 p.m. – Day 1 of the annual Brimfest celebration at the Brimfield Historical Society (4158 State Route 43). This two-day extravaganza is Brimfield Township’s biggest event of the year. Held on the beautiful Brimfield Historical Society grounds, Brimfest is packed with fun for the whole family – from food vendors to live music and entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Sat., Sept. 23, noon – Brimfest Veterans Parade at Brimfield Town Center (parade route TBA).
Sat., Sept. 23, 2-10 p.m. – Day 2 of Brimfest at the Brimfield Historical Society (4158 State Route 43). Stick around for the main event on Saturday night: a spectacular fireworks finale sponsored by Meijer of Brimfield at 9 p.m.!
Until next time. Got news? Share it by contacting Shirley Mars at 330-673-0241 or at [email protected].
