Along with the rest of the country, I am saddened at the passing of Dolly Parton. Last August, my daughters and I flew to Nashville to see the premier of “Dolly, A True Original Musical”, which was a tune-up for the show that is opening in December on Broadway. I learned so much about Dolly’s life and came away with greater appreciation and respect for her faith, honesty, grit, humor and goodness. Two of my favorite “Dolly-isms” are “If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours” and “A strong woman looks a challenge in the eye and gives it a wink.” Dolly was a beacon of light in this often dark world and will be missed.
‘In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.’ — John Muir
An exciting and highly anticipated event finally happened — the opening of the newest Portage County park, right here in Brimfield — the Kame-Esker Bog! Who is it named after? The correct question is WHAT is it named after? The 215-acre park is named after remnants of the Ice Age. The foundation of the current landscape is sediment that was washed into mounds (KAMES) or long ridges (ESKERS), thus Kame-Esker Bog! Glacial lakes formed around them, and over thousands of years plants filled the lakes, forming a bog, which is home to sphagnum moss, tamaracks and blueberries, along with a hardwood forest.
The park features three trails - Glacial Trail (0.4 mile with an accessible surface), Spicebush Trail (1.4 mile), and Turkey Trail (0.3 mile). In addition, there are flush restrooms, water fountains, two picnic shelters, a 75-car paved parking lot, and a nature play area for children. There are also some amazing huge rocks that were donated by Lakeside Sand and Gravel in Mantua.
Brimfield Police Department
A warm welcome to the newest member of the Brimfield Police Department, Captain Michquel Penn, who comes with 20 years of law enforcement experience! Her credentials include an Associate of Science in Applied Criminal Justice Technology from The University of Akron and a Bachelor of Integrative Studies from Kent State University. She is also currently completing coursework toward her Master of Public Administration. Captain Penn has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her career, including being named KSU Police Services Commissioned Employee of the Year twice. Welcome to Brimfield, Captain Penn!
Hosted by Officer Mike Lee, Brimfield Police’s Fast and Furriest Car Show was a great success, with all proceeds benefiting the K9 program. Event shirts and sweatshirts are now available online from All Pro Sports, along with other K9 apparel. Check out the selection at https://allprocreations.com/product-category/brimfield-police-department-k9-apparel/
Thanks to the volunteers and police and fire employees who taught incoming kindergarteners about personal safety at Brimfield Safety School, all while having fun.
- Sept. 18, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. – Drive-thru Paper Shredding at the Brimfield Police Dept. Generously sponsored by Hometown Bank and RJ’s Auto Pros.
Red Cross Blood Drive
For only the second time in its history, the American Red Cross has declared a nationwide blood supply crisis, with warning of serious potential consequences. This is very disturbing! Dates and sign-ups for blood drives can be found online at www.redcrossblood.org. I will be donating blood and volunteering at the following blood drive.
Sept. 10, 1-6 p.m. – Blood drive at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2776 Hartville Rd, Rootstown
Along with Red Cross snacks, there will be a variety of homemade muffins served, and an exclusive Red Cross “Hello Kitty” collectible item will be available while supplies last. Most importantly, come to give blood, knowing that a life (or several lives) has been saved because of your donation!
Brimfield Plaza Updates
The Brimfield Plaza continues its transformation and is roaring back to life! Each time I drive past, something new is being done. I attended the Summer Block Party at the Plaza and enjoyed chatting with Keith and Kristine Michaels, owners of Double O Development, LLC. They were excited to celebrate their progress and partner with Megan Jones, of The Villas at Wyles Farm, to host a car show, food trucks and live music.
People were lined up at the Coreflux Dance Hub to register for upcoming dance classes. The studio has classes for all ages, and there appears to be a lot of interest in the new business.
While Wing Warehouse wasn’t quite ready to open in time for the Block Party celebration, it is finally open. My husband and I stopped by the day after opening and were impressed with the renovations made. The menu is surprisingly expansive, serving much more than just wings.
German Family Society
- Sept. 11-13 – Annual GFS Oktoberfest, 3871 Ranfield Rd. Authentic German music, food and dancing. Times are:
- Sept. 11, 6-11 p.m.
- Sept. 12, 3-11 p.m.
- Sept. 13, 12-7 p.m.
Falcon Fest – at Field High School, 2900 St. Rt. 43
Sept. 4, 4-7 p.m. – Kick off the school year and cheer on the Field Falcons against the Ravenna Ravens. Food trucks and fun for the whole family before the football game.
Young At Heart Club
Eleven years ago, the Young at Heart Club began for those 55 and older, under the leadership of Marie and Steve Amato. Today, the club is thriving and membership is growing, thanks to a group of active members. Bill and I recently attended their corn roast at the Brimfield Community Center where we were warmly welcomed. Over thirty people enjoyed a delicious dinner, cornhole, card games, and other activities. The group plans multiple activities each month, so there is always something to look forward to. I was surprised to learn that one does not have to live in Brimfield to join the club. For those interested in joining the Young at Heart Club can contact Camilla Taylor, membership chair, at 330-221-9253 or by email at TCamilla77@yahoo.com.
- Sept. 8, 10 a.m. – Brunch at Mike’s Place Restaurant
- Sept. 11, 12 p.m. – Bag lunch and card making activity at community center. Free supplies provided
- Sept. 14, 12 p.m. - Lunch at restaurant (TBD)
- Sept. 21, 10 a.m. – Brunch at Mike’s Place Restaurant
- Sept 24 1:45 p.m. – Lunch at Hartville Kitchen,
- Sept. 28, 12 p.m. –Lunch at restaurant (TBD)
Upcoming Venue activities at the Tallmadge Circle:
- Oct. 16, 6 p.m. – Murder Mystery – Buffet dinner - $50
- Oct. 25, 1 p.m. – Elvis Returns – Buffet dinner - $37
Questions or RSVP’s to Camilla Taylor at 330-221-9253 or by email at TCamilla77@yahoo.com.
Brimfield Methodist Church
Sept. 16, 6 a.m. – Bus trip to the Ark Encounter, Williamstown, KY. Estimated return arrival around 12 a.m. All are invited. Transportation cost $102 per person. Ark Encounter ticket prices – Adults under 60 - $60, Seniors 60+ - $50. Dining is available in multiple areas. Pricing varies. Sign up at the church office or call (330) 673-7597.
Brimfield Township
Sept. 18 (Time and place not available at time of publishing) Brimfield Twp. will host a POW/MIA Observance Program in partnership with Alpha 11 Veteran Logistics Inc. and the Portage County Veterans Service Commission. The day serves as a call to action, reminding the nation to rededicate efforts to account for missing service members.
Trustee Meetings – Held at Town Hall, 1333 Tallmadge Rd. All trustee meetings begin at 7 p.m.
Sept. 8 (6:30 p.m.- Board of Trustees will meet regarding a proposed amendment to the township’s Zoning Map before the regular 7 p.m. meeting.)
Sept. 21
Oct. 5
Zoning Commission Meeting – Held at Town Hall
Sept. 10, 6:45 p.m. - Public Hearing regarding a proposed amendment to the Zoning Resolution. This amendment would update Section 600.10 J. to incorporate Senate Bill 264/Megan’s Way Out.
Questions may be directed to Economic Development and Zoning Specialist Kayla Nealon at knealon@brimfieldohio.gov or (330) 548-186
Board of Zoning Appeals – Held at Town Hall
Sept. 9, 7 p.m. - To hear the following variance request: Applicant- Jacob and Jeff Miterko, 4050 Mogadore Rd., Kent – Request to construct a carport in front yard.
Brimfield Branch Library
- Sept. 1, All day – Anti-Social Book Club – Dark Academia – Tweens/Teens. Too busy for a normal book club? No worries! This book club runs completely on your own time. Limited to 10 participants.
- Sept. 1, 5:30-6:45p.m. – History of Games Discussion – Learn history of games from 5,000 years ago to today. Adults.
- Sept. 2, 1-3 p.m. – Homeschool Group Board Games – intended for families with children of all ages. Limit 30.
- Sept. 3, 12-3 p.m. - New Knitter Mitts! - Learn to Knit!- Two-part event provides all materials. Learn how to make a pair of mitts. Limit 8.
- Sept. 3, 5-5:45 p.m. - Bingo! - Bingo Night for adults.
- Sept. 5, 10:30-11 a.m. - Fall Family Storytime for ages 5 and under.
- Sept. 8, 5:30-6:45 p.m. - Brimfield Book Club - "The Big Door Prize" by M.O. Walsh for adults.
- Sept. 9, 10:30-11 a.m. - Baby & Me Storytime for children under 36 mos. and caregiver.
- Sept. 12, 2-4 p.m. - Learn to Paint Miniatures for adults.
- Sept. 15, 5:30-6:45 p.m. - National Voter Registration Day - Discussion on Voting, New Voting Laws & Your Ballot for adults.
- Sept. 16, 4-5 p.m. - Shrinky Dink Day – Make keychains or magnets. Intended for ages 7 and up. Limited to 10.
- Sept. 17, 5-5:45 p.m. - Trivia Night! - Test Your Knowledge for adults
- Sept. 19, 10:30-11 a.m. - Fall Family Storytime for ages 5 and under.
- Sept. 21, 4-5 p.m. - Paint Party – Work with acrylic or watercolor (or both) – for ages 8 and up. Limited to 10.
- Sept. 22, 5:30-6:45 p.m. - Genealogy with Roger Marble – Learn to trace your family roots. For adults.
- Sept. 26, 1-4 p.m. - The Crochet Chain - Crochet Get-Together for adults. Share a current project and meet up with other enthusiasts. Limit 8.
- Sept. 28, 5-6 p.m. - Lego Freebuild for tweens/children. Limit to 10.
- Sept. 29, 4-6:45 p.m. - Dungeons and Dragons with Dave - Learn D&D for adults. Limited to 8.
Final thought: School is back in session! PLEASE drive safely and watch for children getting on and off buses and crossing streets!
Until next time. Got news? Share it by contacting Shirley Mars at 330-673-0241 or at mars@ohiomars.com