The Windham Police Department has a unique way to provide gifts for children in need. Officers will be providing individuals a “Warning for Christmas Morning” voucher instead of a traffic citation. This voucher asks that the driver of the vehicle provide a new (unwrapped) toy in lieu of receiving and paying for a traffic citation. This program is designed to give back to those in need this holiday season in Windham. All donations can be dropped off at The Windham PD Lobby 24/7 or Farmers Bank during banking hours. Any questions, call the Windham PD 330-326-2212. Not all traffic violations qualify.
The Windham police and fire departments also had a fill-a-cruiser event at the Dollar General on Sunday afternoon. Santa, Mrs. Claus, The Grinch and some elves were there when I dropped off my donations. It seemed to be a very happy occasion, with lots of smiling faces. The loving community atmosphere was special.
Over the past several months, I have heard that the Windham Fire Department was very understaffed. Steps have been taken to fix that problem. Recent hires include Brenden Lewis, Antonio Lightner, Lee Allgyer and Megan Duarte. These new hires have a variety of experiences and certifications. They will be seeking additional certifications.
The Windham Schools Hall of Fame is holding its annual induction of new members. Inductees include Kim Viebranz Kiser, Ron Kamala, Bill Pozsgai, Zach Jobson and Alexis Knight. The ceremony will take place between the boys junior varsity and varsity games on Dec. 22. The Hall of fame was started in 1995 and with these inductees will include 111 members. It is exciting to be honored.
I get excited when I hear of a new business opening in Windham. The newest business is Lemon Zest Café and Market. It is starting up by opening up its ice cream window. Let’s help them to get started.
Unfortunately some great Christmas activities have already been held this month. The Free Lunch served 315 free lunches on Saturday. I think this is amazing for this small group of volunteers and how few people attend the Congregational UCC Church that provides them. The Methodist Church had a drive-thru Santa sighting in the church parking lot. Breakfast, goodies and gifts were provided at this event. The Christmas Parade has already been held on Sunday, Dec. 10.
Christmas Eve Services: Nelson United Methodist Church at S.R. 305 and Windham Parkman Road at 6 p.m. and at Windham United Methodist Church at 7:30 p.m.
Congregational United Church of Christ candlelight service will be at 7 p.m. with the Rev. Jeff Schultz. The church is located at 9027 N. Main St., and it is the church that provides free lunch at the Brick Chapel. We welcome everyone from the community or in the area who have lost loved ones or who are experiencing impactful loss in other areas of their lives.
The Personal Care Pantry at the UMC is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday. First-time visitors should bring proof of residency, mail showing address for each adult in the household and a report card or other proof of each child under 18. The God Provides meal will be closed in December but will be open January.
We can expect to see new road signs in the township. The township received a grant of $10,900 to accomplish this and was given 18 months to do it. In other township news: Jake Sweet is the new building inspector.
Windham’s lighting contest is being postponed until next year. Thanks to Gail Poots for suggesting the contest to the trustees. It was a great idea but more time was needed to get people familiar with the contest and to work out the details.
The Windham Lions Club will be starting its monthly pancake breakfasts on Jan. 6 at the Brick Chapel, 9003 N. Main St., Windham. I was told pre-sale tickets may be purchased from football team members.
Contact Ann Taft with your Windham news at 330-259-5596 or [email protected].
