Stow Munroe Falls, Fall 2021

OMMUNITY

ONNECTION The official magazine of Stow and Munroe Falls Fall 2021

Thankful

Summa Health Summa Medical Center Center Summa Health Health Stow-Kent Stow-Kent Medical Medical Center 3825 Fishcreek Road, Stow, 44224 3825 44224 3825 Fishcreek Road, Stow, 3825Fishcreek Fishcreek Road, Road, Stow, Stow, OH OH 44224

Urgent Care Urgent Care Urgent Care No Appointment Urgent CareNecessary No Appointment Necessary

No NoAppointment AppointmentNecessary Necessary

Stow-Kent residents now have access to a full suite of quality, Stow-Kent residents now have access to a full suite of quality, Stow-Kent residents now have access to a full suite of quality, Stow-Kent residents now have access to a full suite of quality, compassionate healthcare services close to home.

With a focus on compassionate healthcare services close to home.

With a focus on compassionate healthcare services close to home.

With a focus on compassionate healthcare services close to home.

With a focus on health and wellness, the Summa Health Stow-Kent Medical Center health and wellness, the Summa Health Stow-Kent Medical Center health and wellness, the Summa Health Stow-Kent Medical Center health and wellness, the health Summa Health Stow-Kent Medical Center offers primary care and screenings, as well as a wide range offers primary care and health screenings, as well as a wide range offers primary care and health screenings, as well as a wide range offers primary care and health screenings, as well as a wide range of specialty care. of personalized personalized specialty care. personalizedspecialty specialtycare. care. ofofpersonalized • • • • • • •

•• Behavioral Health • Behavioral Behavioral Health Health ••Behavioral Cardiac Testing Health • Cardiac Cardiac Testing Testing ••Cardiac Cardiology Testing • Cardiology Cardiology ••Cardiology Imaging (Mammography, (Mammography, • Imaging Imaging (Mammography, Bone Density, X-ray) Bone Density, Imaging (Mammography, Bone Density, X-ray) X-ray) ••Bone LabCare Plus Density, X-ray) LabCare Plus • LabCare Plus ••LabCare Neurology Plus • Neurology Neurology ••Neurology OB/GYN • OB/GYN OB/GYN OB/GYN

•• Outpatient Infusion • Outpatient Outpatient Infusion Infusion Primary Care/Internal ••• Outpatient Infusion Medicine • Primary Primary Care/Internal Care/Internal Medicine Medicine Pulmonary Function Testing ••• Primary Care/Internal Medicine Pulmonary Function Testing • Pulmonary Function Testing Pulmonology ••• Pulmonary Function Testing • Pulmonology Pulmonology • Urgent Care •• Pulmonology • Urgent Urgent Care Care • Urogynecology •• Urgent Care • Urogynecology Urogynecology Urology ••• Urogynecology • Urology Urology • Urology

Hours: Hours: Hours: Monday Hours:– Monday – Friday, Friday,

Monday ––Friday, 9 a.m.

Friday, 9Monday a.m. to to 7 7 p.m. p.m.

99a.m. to a.m. to7 7p.m. p.m.

Saturday Saturday – – Sunday, Sunday, Saturday – p.m.

Sunday, 9 a.m.

Sunday, 9Saturday a.m. to to 5 5–p.m.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

To To contact contact Urgent Urgent Care, Care, To contact Urgent or Care, call 234.867.6960 call orCare, To 234.867.6960 contact Urgent call 234.867.6960 or visit summahealth.org/ visit callsummahealth.org/ 234.867.6960 or visit summahealth.org/ stowkenturgentcare. stowkenturgentcare. visit summahealth.org/ stowkenturgentcare. stowkenturgentcare.

To learn more or make an appointment, call 234.867.7106 To learn more or make an appointment, call 234.867.7106 To learn more or make an appointment, call 234.867.7106 or visit summahealth.org/stow-kent. or visit To more or make an appointment, call 234.867.7106 or learn visit summahealth.org/stow-kent. summahealth.org/stow-kent. or visit summahealth.org/stow-kent.

OMMUNITY

ONNECTION Table of Contents

Band Show and Future Arts Performances

14

STOW PLAYERS:

24

In the Community Spotlight for 70 Years

4

Letter from Superintendent Tom Bratten

6

Letter from Mayor John Pribonic

8

Letter from Mayor James W. Armstrong

10

Educator of the Year Nominees

Sparkle in the Park

28

12

Facilities Planning is in Full Swing in SMFCSD

20

We are thankful for YOU!

23

No One Should Sleep Out in the Cold

13

Stow-Munroe Falls High School Named

26

From the desk of Munroe Falls Service Director, Jim Bowery

16

Calendar of Events

Partners in Education School of the Year

If you have a story that you feel would be a perfect fit for the Community Connection magazine, please contact Laura Forchione, Director of Public Relations at StowMunroe Falls City Schools at st_lforchione@smfcsd.org.

To place an ad in our next magazine, email Andy Isaacs at communityconnection@ cjn.org or call 216-342-5193.

3

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

T

he Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools truly enjoy an incredible working relationship with the cities and communities of Stow and Munroe Falls. We are looking forward to this joint venture which will highlight and celebrate both of these strong communities which are joined together in our schools. We are Bulldog Strong!!!

As your superintendent for the past 7 years, I can tell you that I’ve never been in a district with so much pride and spirit. Whether coming from our student section at a Friday night football game or another amazing performance from one of our brilliant fine arts programs, Bulldogs have a drive and dedication that makes me proud to call myself a member of the Bulldog Family! As we embark on a new district strategic plan, design the next steps for our new athletic weight room and training facility, improve our fine arts facilities, expand on our academic offerings, or continue to meet with our master facilities committee, our eye is constantly on what we can do to make Bulldog Nation a better place for our students and community.

In the past few years our community has been faced with many challenges and as I’ve told our families and my staff-- Bulldogs are resilient! We have proven that we can stand strong in the face of adversity and have come out stronger than ever. We will continue to adapt and change, and we will continue to innovate and create. We refuse to stay status quo and will continuously work to get better. We will continue to recover and we will rise higher.

I am so excited about this inaugural issue of the Community Connection that will showcase some of the great things we are doing in our school district and community at large. We encourage you to reach out to us with happenings in your family, neighborhood, and school so that we can celebrate those in our future issues.

I look forward to sharing all of our great stories with you throughout the year! I wish you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season and GO BULLDOGS! Superintendent Tom Bratten

4

THE HIGHEST QUALITY CARE CLOSE TO HOME

Local Expert Primary, Preventive and Emergency Care Services

Access to a Vast Network of Specialty

Care Physicians

As long-standing members of your community, our team of experts provides you and your family with the care you need close to home, including:

And, if you or your family member needs specialty care, our patients have access to the vast network of UH providers with advanced expertise in the following areas:

•

24/7 Emergency Care/Level 3 Trauma Center

•

Allergy/Immunology

•

Ophthalmology

•

Audiology Services

•

Cancer Care/Breast Center

•

•

Birthing Center

•

Cardiology

Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine

•

Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Services

•

Digestive Health

•

Pain Management

•

Cardiovascular Testing

•

Endocrinology

•

Pediatrics

•

Diagnostic Imaging/Interventional Radiology

•

•

Plastic Surgery

•

Family/Internal Medicine

General Surgery, including Robotic Surgery

•

Podiatry

•

Laboratory

•

Geriatric Medicine

•

Pulmonology

•

Nutrition Counseling Services

•

Hematology/Oncology

•

Rheumatology

•

Radiation Oncology Services

•

Nephrology

•

Sleep Medicine

•

Rehabilitation Services

•

Neurology

•

Urology

•

Sleep Disorder Center

•

•

Vascular Medicine

•

Urgent Care

OB/GYN/Comprehensive Women’s Health

•

Wound Care/Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Portage Medical Center 6847 North Chestnut Street Ravenna, Ohio 44266

To schedule an appointment: Scan the QR code Visit UHhospitals.org/Portage Call 330-281-4961 © 2021 University Hospitals REG 1766682

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

3760 Darrow Road • Stow, Ohio 44224 330.689.2700 • www.stowohio.org

Dear Residents,

Welcome to our first issue of the Community Connection - The Official Magazine of Stow & Munroe Falls.

You’re sure to love our new quarterly publication showcasing our amazing cities, our great schools, our thriving retail districts, our fascinating residents, our incredible parks and greenspaces, all of the outstanding things happening in our community and much more!

We have many great initiatives happening in our City. Your voice and opinions are very important as we move forward. Please take a few moments to get involved. Here’s how:

Parks & Recreation Master Plan The City of Stow is undertaking a master plan process to establish priorities for the future of our parks, trails, recreation facilities, and programs and services. As part of the process, the community is invited to participate in an online survey that will be conducted by our consulting firm. Scan the QR code below to take you to the survey page. Everyone is encouraged to participate in filling it out. This will aid the City of Stow in taking a community-driven approach to making decisions that will enrich the future of our City and positively affect the quality of life we provide for our residents.

Connectivity Plan The City of Stow is seeking to build upon its existing bikeways and trails through the Stow Connectivity Plan – a Connecting Communities Planning Grant, and is in the process of developing a strategy to create the missing connections between these existing routes and the people that use them. The city will explore the potential of shareduse paths and side paths as the primary facilities for the city’s trail network. Scan the QR code below, and use the Interactive Feedback Map to provide your specific comments about transportation.

#YOUMATTER We all feel the exhaustion that continues to build as we are navigating these different times. Please visit our Mental Health Resources page by scanning the QR code below, if you or someone you know needs help, especially throughout the holidays. There is truly no way to show our gratitude and appreciation to all those that have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic. We THANK YOU all!

I pledge to continue my accessibility to our residents and businesses. Your ideas, input and feedback are so very beneficial in understanding the concerns of our community. I have the best interest of Stow at heart and I hope you do as well.

Mayor John Pribonic

6

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Dear Neighbors:

It is with great anticipation the City of Munroe Falls joins the City of Stow and the Stow Munroe Falls City Schools in creating the Community Connection Magazine: Showcasing the best that our area has to offer and celebrating the cooperation and collaboration between our three entities whose joint goal is continuing and enhancing the way of life that makes our neighborhoods the best place to raise a family and make lifelong friendships.

It is appropriate that the inaugural issue of the Community Connection is being released just before Thanksgiving, since it is a natural time to reflect and count our blessings and remember what in our lives is truly important. The upcoming season is traditionally when families who live in other areas get together and our children return from the college campuses all over the nation. It provides the opportunity to step back from our daily obligations and focus on those we love and remember that even in troubled times there are many positives in which we can rejoice and be thankful.

This is also a time in which we can be thankful for the dedication of our Fire/EMS professionals who respond when there is an emergency, service personnel who clear our streets of snow and fix our water lines in inclement weather, and our dedicated police officers who keep our neighborhoods some of the safest in the state. Keeping in mind that if it were not for our teachers and role models, none of us could perform the duties and have the abilities which we too often take for granted.

Perhaps the best way we can help our first responders and educators continue performing at the highest levels, is to convey to our children the basic values that are established in the home and to remember that, as parents, our primary responsibility is to ensure our children are loved and that they have greater opportunity for success as they get older and take the public service responsibilities from those of us entering the September of our lives.

On behalf of the dedicated staff at the City of Munroe Falls, we are hopeful that you will enjoy the Community Connection as we pray for a safe and healthy holiday season.

Very truly yours, James W. Armstrong Mayor

8

THE #1 REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Your Votes Count.

Thank You!!

205 W Portage Trail Ext | 330.929.0707 bhhssimonandsalhanyrealty.com

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Educator of the Year Nominees

T

hree Stow-Munroe Falls City School District educators were nominated for awards at the 2021 Summit County Education Celebration.

The Summit County Educational Service Center recognized the top educators in Northeast Ohio at the 13th annual Education Celebration on Oct. 21 at the Stow Youth Baseball Hall. This event recognized educators from Summit County and surrounding areas who are making a difference in the lives of students across the region.

The celebration was open to 18 school districts, including every district in Summit County and the affiliated districts in Portage County. District administrators, award nominees and their guests were invited to attend the event, which featured an award ceremony and complimentary dinner.

During the event, the all-county All-Star Teaching Team, teacher of the year, rookie of the year and lifetime achievement award winners were announced. Nominations were submitted by parents, educators and administrators who feel a teacher deserves recognition for their dedication in the classroom, commitment to the school district and desire to go above and beyond for each child.

Among those nominated this year were three educators from Stow-Munroe Falls City School District; Ann Cottrill, Rookie of the Year nominee; Nicole Marconi, Educator of the Year nominee; and John Lacoste, Lifetime Achievement Award Nominee.

The Rookie of the Year Award honors local educators with fewer than three years of teaching experience in Summit County who have positively impacted student learning. Ann Cottrill, a school counselor at Stow-Munroe Falls High School, says she was surprised and honored by her nomination for this award.

“This nomination means that people recognize that I like to work hard for the district,” Cottrill said. “It’s nice to know that the work I do and the work I’ve put forth has been valuable, and I’m very honored to be recognized.”

Cottrill is a SMF alumna and a Kent State University graduate with a Master of Education in School Counseling and Guidance Services K-12. She is an executive board member for the high school’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, and she is involved with Bulldogs Taking Action, a group of staff and students that celebrates

10

From left: Nicole Marconi, Educator of the Year nominee; John Lacoste, Lifetime Achievement Award Nominee; Ann Cottrill, Rookie of the Year nominee

diversity.

As a school counselor, Cottrill assists students, with last names beginning with F-K, with academic, personal, social and future career needs. She is also in charge of the College Credit Plus program, which is a dual enrollment program that allows students to earn college and high school credits at the same time.

“I’m here for students first,” Cottrill said.

“One of the biggest things that I pride myself on is that students are my number one priority, and all the other stuff comes after what students need each day. The students are always the most rewarding part of this job.”

Nicole Marconi, a K-6 reading and math coach at SMFCSD and nominee for Summit County ESC’s 2021 Educator of the Year, agrees that connecting with students is the most rewarding part of working in education.

“It’s those lasting relationships that I’ve built with kiddos that means the most.”

Marconi said. “Now when those kids see me out, they want to come say hi and tell me things that are going on in their lives.

That means I’ve done my job, and I’ve made a meaningful connection, and to me that’s more rewarding than anything.”

Marconi is a Kent State graduate, who began her career as a student teacher at Woodland Elementary School in 1998. After

graduating with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education a year later, she returned to Woodland Elementary to teach first grade for four years and then fourth grade for 18 years.

This year, she has taken on a new role as a literacy coach for the district, which allows her to help kindergarten through 6th grade teachers meet the needs of the children in their classrooms. Marconi serves on the District Leadership Team, and during her time at Woodland Elementary, she served on the building leadership team, worked with student council and co-founded the Peers Uplifting Peers (PUPs) program.

“I’m very happy to say that I’ve spent my entire career at Stow-Munroe Falls,” Marconi said. “I take pride in being a teacher at this district, and I hope to stay here because it is a district that I am very proud to be a part of.”

Marconi has worked hard over the last 22 years to make sure her students feel safe and welcome in her classroom, and she feels that the district shares her children-first philosophy.

“School should be more than just learning, and I wanted my kids to walk away knowing that I really cared for them,” she said. “Whenever I make decisions, I say to myself, ‘what is best for kids?’ That has always been my guiding principle. I have always felt that Stow puts the kids first and they do everything they can to build relationships with students so that they feel

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF STOW AND MUNROE FALLS connected.”

Being nominated for Educator of the Year has been such an honor for Marconi.

“I think almost all teachers go into teaching because they love kids and they enjoy working with kids, and to be recognized like this, it just solidifies that I did pick the right path and I am doing what I truly have always felt I was meant to do,” she said. “It feels really good to do what I love doing and know that people recognize my passion as well.”

John Lacoste, former Indian Trail Elementary School principal and 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award nominee, shares Marconi’s passion for educating the future generations.

“Welcoming children to school and validating who they are each day was an important piece of my approach,” Lacoste said.

“I think if you can build genuine relationships with students, they are more willing to attend school and come willing to learn.”

Lacoste, who retired in June, says it has been an honor and a privilege to serve the Stow-Munroe Falls community for the last 17 years. He has since been recognized as the district’s Educational Ambassador, where he is now serving as a liaison for the district through its different projects.

“It was a bit overwhelming, because I never expected that kind of recognition on behalf of the Board and the superintendent,” Lacoste said. “But this role allows me to stay connected with the district while still enjoying my retirement.”

Lacoste has had a long and rewarding career in education that began in 1986 when he graduated with a Bachelor of Education from the University of Maine. He went on to earn a Master of Arts in Special Education in 1988 and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Administration in 1997, both from the Ohio State University. Before his time at SMFCSD, he worked with Dublin, Westerville and Hilliard City Schools.

The Lifetime Achievement Award honors teachers, educators and administrators who

Nicole Marconi with her students

have spent their entire career in education.

Lacoste says he is honored and humbled to be nominated for this award.

“This nomination recognizes more than just me, it recognizes all of the people that I’ve had the opportunity to interact and grow with; students, parents, staff and teachers that have been a part of my journey,” he said. “I think it also recognizes all the retirees in education this year and their lifetime commitment to children. You’re never alone in this business, and I think in the end this particular nomination represents all the people who have come together to make a difference in the lives of children, and I just happen to be one of them.”

Lacoste said the district has felt more like a family than just an organization, and he is grateful for the connections he’s made with the community.

“Working at this district is more than just a nine-to-five job, it’s a place that you become family, you encourage others to be at their best, and I think it is a place that is inspiring,” he said. “I’ve seen people in this district support each other, go out of their way to help one another and truly be a Bull-

dog in the sense of what it means to celebrate success and overcome adversity.”

The Summit County ESC believes it is important to recognize the outstanding educators like Cottrill, Marconi, Lacoste, and so many others in the region.

Last year’s Educational Celebration was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and Patti Maloney, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent at the Summit County ESC, says the organization is very excited to have an in-person event this year.

“Summit ESC is pleased to host and coordinate the annual Education Celebration on behalf of area school districts. We receive so many deserving nominations for Teacher of the Year, Rookie of the Year, and the Lifetime Achievement Award. It is our honor to be able to recognize such an outstanding group of educators at this event,” said Summit ESC Superintendent Joseph Iacano. “Teachers should be celebrated. They truly make an impact on the lives of their students. Our nominees and award winners are a great representation of the outstanding caliber of educators in our region.”

In Memoriam Jan Mather (1941-2021) The students and families of the Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools will forever be indebted to Jan for her overwhelming kindness, innovation of the Bulldog Bags program and her overarching vision of never seeing a Bulldog student hungry. Her legacy is sure to live on forever.

11

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Facilities Planning is in Full Swing in SMFCSD

O

ur schools are a great source of pride in the community. In order to protect our residents’ investment in our schools, from time to time, we analyze the way we do business to ensure we deliver on the quality and efficiency our community expects, including our school buildings.

For many years, Stow-Munroe Falls City Schools has taken great care to maintain our schools. Providing safe, warm, dry, and effective learning environments for our students is of the utmost importance.

Recently, our district has launched a multi-step process to review the current state of all of our buildings. With buildings that range from over 30 to 80 years old, it’s important to review what it is costing residents to patch and repair our aging schools, especially if the state of Ohio is willing to pay for 24% of the cost.

Starting in 2019, the district worked with construction and school facilities experts to analyze every square inch of our school buildings – both from a financial and educational standpoint. This is a free service provided by the state of Ohio as part of the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission (OFCC). In addition, the district created a Facilities Task Force made up of a large cross section of our community to assist the district in coming up with a Master Facilities Plan.

The assessment revealed that although our staff has done an incredible job with maintaining our schools, many of our building systems are nearing or well beyond their lifespan. In addition, our classroom space does not reflect what students will encounter in today’s colleges and job market.

Akron Monument & Granite Co. Some of the finest examples of monuments in Summit County have been designed by Jim Leone.

To Serve You and the Community Jim Leone Owner

Since 1973, Jim Leone has earned a reputation as a person that many families have trusted for honesty, integrity and professionalism. For information on choosing Monuments, Bronze Markers, Cemetery Lettering, Private Mausoleums and/or information on Cemeteries, Funeral Homes and pre-planning call today.

AKRON MONUMENT & GRANITE CO.

Call Jim Leone - HELPING FAMILIES CHOOSE THEIR MEMORIALS SINCE 1973

• FREE Lettering • FREE Design • • FREE Temporary Plaque •

DISCOUNT ON SELECT INVENTORY Order Now & pay in the Spring of 2022. www.akronmonumentgranite.com

590 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron, OH 44310 3/10 of a mile east of Route 8 & Tallmadge Ave. exit

(Corner of Damon St. & E. Tallmadge Ave. next to DeVitis Italian Market)

330-252-1746

12

Now that the assessment has been completed, the next steps include involving the community on what, if anything, should be done to address any facility needs through a Master Facilities Plan. The community-led Facilities Task Force is working with construction experts, architects and school officials to help create a Master Facilities Plan. We will hold multiple community meetings to gather feedback from community members as well.

After we solidify the details of the Master Facilities Plan, the board of education will determine the next steps and whether or not to move forward with an action plan.

We are keeping an open mind. We are not moving forward with preconceived notions or assumptions. All options and suggestions regarding the school buildings will be thoroughly vetted and guided by the input of the community. We encourage all residents to participate in the conversation.

We hope to complete any plan developed by April 2022 and will offer tours of our school buildings in fall 2022.

We understand transparency through every step of this community-led plan is a crucial component of the process. Our district will be updating our website with progress frequently. We encourage you to visit https://www.smfschools.org/Administration2/114 on a regular basis for insight on developments. Any questions about this process can be directed toward the director of operations at 330-689-5413.

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF STOW AND MUNROE FALLS

Stow-Munroe Falls High School Named Partners in Education School of the Year

S

tow-Munroe Falls High School is proud to have been named The Ohio Lottery Partners in Education School of the Year 2021-2022!

Stow-Munroe Falls High School was selected as the School of the Year from 162 Ohio schools who participated in the Lottery’s Partners in Education program during the 2020-2021 school year. Stow-Munroe Falls High School student Rosa Tate was nominated as an Academic All-Star by Superintendent Tom Bratten which made the school eligible for the School of the Year award.

The Ohio Lottery Partners in Education Academic All Stars category recognizes a student who has exhibited academic achieve-

ment, community involvement, citizenship and leadership in and out of the Stow-Munroe Falls community. Rosa volunteered in every department imaginable at SMFHS, and has been the assistant to the athletic director in every major production that department has conducted. Rosa Tate was also the sole student representative of the newly formed district Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Executive Board. Rosa is so incredibly highly respected by district and community leaders, teachers, and her peers alike.

Stow-Munroe Falls High School received a School of the Year trophy, a $1,000 gift card to OfficeMax and autographed team merchandise from major and minor league sports teams across Ohio to be used for

future fundraising efforts. All the school’s students and staff received a Partners in Education backpack.

Congratulations to SMFHS! You continue to make our community proud! Go Bulldogs!

Sell, Buy or Build We do it all for You! Call the Cooks!

“The Best Recipe in Real Estate”

(over 40 years combined experience) (List or Buy a home by January 1st, 2022 and receive A Free Home Warranty)

g Happy Thanksgivin

Call today • Cell: 330-730-6263 Email: bonniecook@howardhanna.com Web: bonniecook.howardhanna.com 13

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Band Show and Future Arts Performances

T

he Stow-Munroe Falls High School Bulldog Marching Band has a history of excellence dating back to 1939. It is one part of the band program which also includes four concert bands, three jazz ensembles and various percussion ensembles. The music department has been listed as a “Best Community for Music Education,” the past 12 years. The marching band performs at the annual Stow-Fourth of July Parade, has performed at bowl games as well as a Cleveland Browns game halftime in 2019. Every four years, the marching band travels to Florida to perform at Walt Disney World, and performed at Ohio State’s Buckeye Invitational on October 16 at Ohio Stadium on the campus of OSU. Each September on the third Saturday of the month, the marching band hosts its annual band show in Bulldog Stadium-Ron Marhofer Auto Family Field. This year’s show featured bands from Canton South, Kent Roosevelt, Hudson and Riverside High Schools and the Kent State University Marching Golden Flashes. The band show is a major fundraiser for the band program and helps fund the program in a variety of ways from grades 5 through 12.

The Band Parents Association hires a drone service for the event and provides coverage of each band’s performance to their director as a teaching tool as they continue to perfect their performance throughout the season.

This year, the Marching Bulldogs presented part one of its early 80’s show entitled, “Hits that started the 80’s.” We are very fortunate to have the best announcer in the business, Chris Schrickel, who gets the crowd rockin’ with the opening announcement of the band, “Put your hands together and stomp your feet as we present the 2021

14

The SMFHS Marching Band marching to the Bulldog Stadium

Stow-Munroe Falls High School “Bull-Dog” Marching Band!”

The opening song is “Call Me.” As part of the drill, the band makes a phone and moves the phone receiver to depict making a call!

The second song is a Journey classic, “Open Arms,” featuring junior baritone soloist Kristin Mickovic and senior mellophone, Carolyn Engle.

The show continues with “Party Train,” by the Gap Band. The band forms a train, rotates the wheels and moves the train across the field.

The next selection in the show titled, “You Dropped a Bomb on Me,” is a song described in the announcements as “A song the band can dance to!” Senior leaders created the dance during the summer months and taught it to the band during band camp in August.

In the following selection, Turn Your Love Around, the band makes a rotating heart form to turn your love around!

The Bulldogs finish the show with a classic song by Styx entitled, “The Best of Times,” with an added clip of “Africa,” by the band Toto.

“I am very fortunate to have an outstanding supporting team. It takes a village to make the band look and sound their best. Assistant Directors Sandra Sandman, Krystal Grossi, Tom Lewis and Nick Campagna push me to push the students to achieve excellence on and off the field and rehearsal room,” says director Greg Newman.

We are lucky to have the hardest working, talented, students, dedicated parents in the community and supportive administrative team!

The annual band show would not have been possible without our parent volunteers from start to finish! Additional performances by the band can be found on the band calendar: https://smfband.org/.

GO BULLDOGS!

Good to know.™

Kathy Reid, Broker

Kathy Reid Realty

AT THE LANDING OF STOW, WE’RE TRANSFORMING WHAT SENIOR LIVING LOOKS LIKE AND FEELS LIKE. We create an environment where quality care means being supported and encouraged from the moment you move in.

Ask us how you can SAVE on a Studio Apartment today!

Dan Reid

Brett Reid

Mary Jo Heller

Cindy Lindberg

Jeff Kutz

Butch Baer

Rosa Di Gennaro Closing Coordinator

Wayne Miller

Susan Bloom

Admin. Asst./Realtor

VISIT US AT THELANDINGOFSTOW.COM 330.342.0934 • ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

AWARD WINNING COMPANY +35 YEARS OF PROVEN SUCCESS HONESTY · INTEGRITY · TRUST · STABILITY Ohio Association of Realtor Awards

Awards for New Construction

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

• Cleveland Choice Award for Brochure • National Home Builder Association Award for Builder Marketing Video • HBA “MIRM” Award for Development Brochure • Top Awards for New Home Sales

Office Exterior Office Interior Real Estate Sign Relocation Brochure Relocation Video Community Video Classified Advertising Institutional Advertising Television Advertising Personal Marketing Website Design Novelty Advertising Corporate Communications

Awards for Sales Production • OAR – “Pinnacle of Performance” Award • OAR – “Award of Distinction” $2.5 Million in Sales • OAR – “Award of Achievement” • Akron Sales & Marketing Executives – “Distinguished Sales & Marketing Award”

PRE-PLANNING GRIEF SUPPORT PERSONALIZED VIDEO TRIBUTES CREMATION SERVICES

Awards for Relocation Services • International Referral Service Award • “Broker of the Year” #1 in North America • Referral Services Top Referral and Conversion Award – Customer Service • Partnership Performance Award for Referral Program – Corporate Service • Aires Relocation VIP Preferred Broker Rating • Brookfield Relocation Premier Services Rating Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Achievement Awards • • • • •

Cornerstone Award for Office Excellence Leading Edge Society Chairman’s Circle Award Top Ohio Quarterly Agent Production Award Rare Legend Award

North Regional Office 330-650-2600 South Regional Office 330-688-1911

Serving Our Communities, One Family at a Time 3633 Darrow Road

■

Stow, Ohio 44224

330-688-6631 www.redmonfuneralhome.com 15

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DECEMBER

Monday, Nov. 29 - Friday, Dec. 17 Santa’s Mailbox outside of Stow City Hall Drop you letters to Santa in the mailbox located outside Stow City Hall.

Thursday, Dec. 2 KP - Band Concert 7:30-8:30 p.m Glow with Stow - Holiday Lighting on Stow City Hall Campus @ 6-9 p.m. (tree lighting at 6:15 p.m.)

Celebrate the Season! See Santa and his workshop! Music, Food, Displays & Tree Lighting!

Lights & Displays will be on each night until January 3, 2022.

Friday, Dec. 3 MF Holiday Tree Lighting and Opening of Sparkle in the Park @ 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 4 HS - Drama Club’s Lunch w/Santa @ HS 12 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 5 Heritage Park Holiday Drive-Thru at Silver Springs Park Young Rd. @ 6-8 p.m.

Take a ride back in time! Drive thru and see the historical homes for a Period-Specific demonstration and scenery displays

Monday, Dec. 6 HS - Board of Education Meeting 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 7 HS - College Credit Plus Meeting @ HS Auditorium 6 p.m.

MF Council Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec 11 HS - ACT Testing @ HS KP - Musical 7-8 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 12 KP - Musical 2-3 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 13 LV - Choir Performance 5-8:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 14 MF Council Meeting @ 7 p.m.

The Colors of Christmas at Local Churches @ 5-8 p.m.

Local churches will provide outdoor festive lights, singing and more.

Wednesday, Dec. 15 HS - Choir Concert @ HS @ 7 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 20 HS - Board of Education Meeting 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 22 Records Day - No School for Students MF Planning Commission Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 23 - Wednesday, Jan. 5 Winter Break - No School Friday, Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Jingle 6 p.m.

(All residents step outside of their homes on Christmas Eve at 6pm and ring bells for two minutes to spread Christmas Spirit and to help Santa fly his sleigh.)

Wednesday, Dec. 8 HS - Student Council’s Spikeball Tournament 6 p.m.-8 p.m. in HS Gym HS - Orchestra Concert @ HS 7 p.m.

KP - Choir Concert 7-8 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 28 MF BZA Meeting @ 7 p.m. (as needed)

Thursday, Dec. 9 HS - Winter Band Concert @ HS 7 p.m.

(5K run starts and ends at the Stow-Munroe Falls High School To register, visit SummitAthletic.com)

Friday, Dec. 31 Great New Year’s Eve Race - 5K 4-6 p.m.

SMF High School

Friday, Dec. 10 KP - Musical 7-8 p.m.

JANUARY Thursday, Dec. 23 - Wednesday, Jan. 5 Winter Break - No School

Tuesday, Jan. 18 MF Council Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 3 MF Organization Meeting @ 6 p.m.

MF Council Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 25 MF BZA Meeting @ 7 p.m. (as needed)

Thursday, Jan. 6 MF Park Board Meeting, @ 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 14 Professional Development Day - No School for Students Paint N Pour 6:30-9 p.m. @ The Leona Farris Lodge (Follow a step-by-step seasonal painting instruction while having a fun evening with friends.)

Monday, Jan. 17 Martin Luther King Day - No School

16

Wednesday, Jan. 26 MF Planning Commission Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 27 HS - Jazz in January @ HS 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 29 HS - Student Council’s Winter Formal @ HS 8-11 p.m.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FEBRUARY

Tuesday, Feb. 1 MF Council Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 3 MF Park Board Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 5 HS - Student Council’s Chili Cook-off @ HS Commons 12 p.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday Feb. 6 Pizza Palooza 12-3 p.m. SMF High School

Thursday, Feb. 17 EH - Parent Teacher Conferences 3:45-8:15 p.m.

HS - Parent/Teacher Conferences 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

HS - 8th Grade Orientation @ HS 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 19 An Enchanted Afternoon 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2-4 p.m. @ The Leona Farris Lodge (Kids - Play games, work on a craft, and enjoy singing and dancing with your favorite princesses!)

(Pizza, Inflatables, Community Booths & more!)

Monday, Feb. 21 Presidents Day - No School

Thursday, Feb. 10 HL - Parent Teacher Conferences 4:30-8 p.m.

KP - Parent Teacher Conferences 3-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 22 MF BZA Meeting @ 7 p.m. (as needed)

Saturday, Feb. 12 HS - ACT Testing @ HS

Wednesday, Feb. 23 KP - Band Concert @ 7:30 p.m.

MF Planning Commission Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 15 MF Council Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 16 HS - Orchestra Concert @ HS 7 p.m.

HS - Student Council’s Dodgeball Tournament 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

KP - Spring Sports Meeting 6-7 p.m.

MARCH Tuesday, Mar. 1 MF Council Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Sunday, Mar. 13 KP - Kimpton Musical @ 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Mar. 2 HS - Band Concert @ HS 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Mar. 15 MF Council Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Thursday, Mar. 3 HS - Choir Concert @ HS 7 p.m.

MF Park Board Meeting@ 7 p.m.

Friday, Mar. 18 Early Release Day

Friday, Mar. 11 KP - Kimpton Musical @ 7 p.m.

HS - Interact Talent Show @ HS 7 p.m.

Saturday, Mar. 12 KP - Kimpton Musical @ 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Mar. 22 MF BZA Meeting @ 7 p.m. (as needed) Wednesday, Mar. 23 MF Planning Commission Meeting @ 7 p.m.

Monday, Mar. 28 - Friday, Apr. 1 Spring Break - No School

SCHOOL KEY

Join us for our Senior Programs https://stowohio.org/senior-adult-programs/

EH-Echo Hills Elementary HL-Highland Elementary FC- Fishcreek Elementary IT-Indian Trail Elementary RV- Riverview Elementary WD-Woodland Elementary LV- Lakeview Intermediate School KP-Kimpton Middle School HS-SMF High School

17

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Serving our Bulldog Family for 30 years!

Congratulations to Betty Bradshaw for receiving her 30-year recognition pin for 30 years of service to the Stow-Munroe Falls City School District. Betty began her tenure at SMF Schools in 1990, working as a substitute classified staff member.

Over the early years, she served as a noontime aide, library aide, special education and education assistant as well as a secretary at Stow High School. She spent 15 years in the school buildings before accepting a job as Administrative Assistant to the Director of Operations and moved to the Central Office, where she works to this day. Betty’s work is invaluable as she has proven over the years to not only lend a hand to those in need but to single handedly manage an entire department and keep everyone organized. Her bright and cheery demeanor is something Betty is known for, as well as her investment in the well-being of those around her. She is always one to offer a kind word, a helping hand or a shoulder to lean on.

In every way imaginable, Betty Bradshaw has shown what it means to be a Bulldog and the entire SMF community is blessed to have her! Congratulations, Betty!

Jason A DuBois

IRT-1848G-A

Financial Advisor

18

Stratford Place 4301 Darrow Rd Ste 4400 B Stow, OH 44224 330-686-0300

edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

For 34+ years I have been blessed to be part of homeownership.

Leslee Salhany 330.958.1220

salhanysold@gmail.com

©2021 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affliates, LLC.

Food.Fun.Drinks.

We are a friendly, neighborhood pub with good food, drinks, and friendly people. We have daily specials, homemade soups, salads, burgers, and pub food.

Stop in for one and stay for the fun!

3041 Graham Road, Stow Open daily at 11 a.m.

19

The Stow-Munroe Falls Community has so much to be thankful for all year long, but take a moment with us this holiday season to stop and appreciate the simple things around you.

We are thankful for YOU!

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

The Stow First Responders Memorial Fund, a nonprofit 501C(3), was founded in 2018 for a First Responders Memorial to be built and maintained in front of the Stow Safety Center, 3800 Darrow Road, Stow, OH44224. Donations and fundraising efforts were put on pause last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Planning and fundraising is now back on track and the word needs to get out.

The purpose of the Stow First Responders Memorial is: • To honor those who bravely gave their lives performing the duties of their professions.

• To recognize and honor the retired police officers, firefighters and dispatchers who served our community day in and day out providing a lifetime of service and commitment to the City of Stow.

• To be a permanent funding source to help maintain the memorial site that honors, recognizes and remembers the commitment service and sacrifice of our first responders.

The memorial fundraising goal is $145,000 and over $63,000 has already been raised. All donations will be used to make the memorial a reality and for general upkeep and maintenance.

Here are the ways to donate: • Mail check to: Stow First Responders Memorial Fund 4466 Darrow Road, Stow, OH 44224 • Online: http://sfrmfund.com • Call: (330) 474-3721 SERVICE ~ INTEGRITY ~ COMMITMENT Our goal is to make sure we are celebrating the men and women who devoted their professions to this community with a permanent memorial, which they truly deserve.

Programming and Software Development

Aeronautics Careers Academy

Culinary Arts

NEW! Modern Manufacturing for Employment

Engineering Academy

The Six District Educational Compact offers 28 Career-Technical Education programs and also provides career assessment, summer programs, the annual Reading & Writing Festival & Burbick Math and Science conference, C.A.R.E. workshops and more! 52 years strong! +123-456-7890

Authentic Learning

Internships

College Credits

reallygreatsite.com

Connections

@reallygreatsite

Hands-On Experiences

Industry Partners

Real World Skills

www.sixdistrict.com 22

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF STOW AND MUNROE FALLS

NO ONE SHOULD SLEEP OUT IN THE COLD Communities join together for collection drive Nov. 22 - Dec. 18

A

gain this year, the Mayors of Stow, Munroe Falls, Silver Lake and Cuyahoga Falls are joining forces with the Peter Maurin Center and The Knights of Columbus to spearhead a community collection drive in their respective communities to collect donated cold weather items for the homeless.

The drive is specifically intended to help the unsheltered population – people who live in spaces not intended for habitation rather than going in to local shelters – which increased last year due to COVID. Last year, Mike Rauh, Peter Maurin Center volunteer, and Stow Mayor John Pribonic spearheaded this inter-community drive. All four communities were overwhelmed by the outpouring of generosity from their communities.

“What I heard from residents is that they knew this was a problem, but they just didn’t know how to help,” Pribonic added.

“This gave them a connection and once they knew how to help, the turnout was incredible.”

The Peter Maurin Center is a nonprofit organization that offers hot meals, shelter, clothes and comfort to unsheltered and marginalized people.

For this year, each of the four communities will have donation bins in their city halls so that residents may drop off items during business hours. They will also hold two weekend drive-thru events to collect donated items at the curb where The Knights of Columbus will be on hand to help. Drive-thru event dates are: • December 4, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Stow and Silver Lake City Halls • December 11, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Munroe Falls and Cuyahoga Falls City Halls Only items from the specified list will be accepted for donation, and the items MUST be new.

DONATION ITEMS NEEDED AND ACCEPTED – MUST BE NEW • Boots - waterproof, men’s (10-12), women’s (all sizes) • Hoodies - men’s w/zipper, XL, XXL (Fruit of the Loom – cotton) • Flashlight and Batteries – any • Backpacks – daypack adult type – sizes: 20L or 40L • Hand Warmers – many needed • Socks – large athletic or wool – many needed • Gloves – thermal • Boxer Briefs - men, all sizes • Underwear – women, all sizes, cotton briefs • Meal Cards - McDonalds, Burger King, Subway, etc.

• One Day Akron Metro Bus Passes • Money – 100% goes toward the homeless through PayPal only: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id= 3ZV9GWR9EAUGC Mayors Pribonic, Armstrong, Hovey and Walters thank you in advance for your generosity!

Dr. Anthony Caruso 4466 Darrow Rd, Suite 16 Accepting new patients and Dr. Stow, OH 44224 Caroline * SameBateman Day Crowns Dr. Anthony Caruso and Dr. Caroline Bateman

(330) 688-3115

www.darrowfamilydentalcentre.com

* Tooth Whitening * Family, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry * Most Insurances Accepted

Accepting new patients

• Same Day Crowns • Tooth Whitening • Family, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry

Most Insurances Accepted 4466 Darrow Rd, Suite 16 • Stow, OH 44224 (330) 688-3115 • www.darrowfamilydentalcentre.com

23

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

STOW PLAYERS: In the Community Spotlight for 70 Years

W

hile watching TV, a movie, or even a live theatrical presentation, have you ever found yourself thinking, “I wish I would have been in a play in school,” or “I wonder if that would be as much fun as it looks.” If the answer is “Yes,” then Stow Players is a good place to find out. Stow Players has been in the Stow community for almost 70 years, is a 501(3) (c) nonprofit formed in 1954, and focuses on the two words: Community and Theater.

Stow Players found its first performance space in the basement of the old Town Hall. In 1980, the Stow Historical Society and the Stow Players collaborated with the City of Stow to fund and construct a barn near the Heritage House Museum for both organizations to share. The first event held in Heritage Barn was the 1981 Harvest Festival, which also included an evening square dance. Stow Players debuted in their current, in-the-round style home with a rousing rendition of “Mame” a year later. Gene Stebbins served as President throughout the 1980s, designing and installing the light and sound systems Stow Players uses to this day.

Stow Players strives to inspire and enrich

24

the lives of those in our community. “Our mission is to provide a creative outlet through a live theatre experience that is ar-

tistic and entertaining in a unique, intimate setting, “ stated LeeAnn Covey, President of Stow Players Board of Directors. “Our vision

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF STOW AND MUNROE FALLS is a community, now and over the next generations, that supports and celebrates live theatrical productions.”

The November to April production season usually consists of three adult cast plays, sometimes including a musical, and two youth productions. Auditions for the adult casts are usually “cold readings” from the script or memorized audition pieces – whatever the director chooses. Those cast are usually in rehearsal for six weeks with a two- or three-weekend run.

Stow Players conducts theater workshops for youth as well, with the end result being a community performance. Younger children can participate in a six week workshop that provides an introduction to theater and focuses on movement, voice and other basic acting skills. Older or more experienced children can participate in a six week workshop that focuses on monologues, scene work, and delves into more advanced acting skills.

The organization is governed by a Board of Directors. The Board is known as a “working board,” which means that all members perform staff, management, and technical duties in addition to the fiduciary (financial) and strategic responsibilities of governance. And, some of them act! They perform in their own productions.

Are you still thinking about that question you’ve asked yourself not once, but often?

Do you have an interest in community theater? It is not necessary to have prior knowledge and experience about community

theatre to be a member. Currently, Stow Players is looking for people who can help them reach a larger audience, increase revenue and formulate a strategic plan for Stow Player’s growth and future, and might want to try being onstage or backstage!

Why become involved? Community theater contributes to the arts in a community, as well as teaching many important skills such as teamwork, problem solving, and confidence in public speaking.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: LeAnn Covey Vice President: Dave Sherman Treasurer: Valerie Sherman Past President: Pat Robertell-Hudson Matt McCombs Bill Morgan Tom Stephan Joyce DiNardo Leah Thompson John Leasure

Stow Players!

2021-2022 Season

Performing at the Stow Heritage Barn 5238 Young Road • Stow, OH 44224 Purchase tickets on-line at www.stowplayers.net The Holiday Channel Christmas Movie Wonderthon

By Don Zolidis • December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, and 18 at 7:30 p.m.

• December 5 and 12 at 2:30 p.m.

The Journey of Little Red

By Samantha Knight • January 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m.

• January 23 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $15.00/$10.00 student ticket option

Mauritius

By Theresa Rebeck • February 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, and 19 at 7:30 p.m.

• February 6 and 13 at 2:30 p.m.

The Monologue Show (From Hell)

By Don Zolidis • January 7 and 8 at 7:30 p.m.

• January 9 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $8.00

• Tickets are $8.00

Into the Breeches!

By George Brant • March 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, and 19 at 7:30 p.m.

• March 6 and 13 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets are $15.00 / $10.00 student ticket option

Tickets are $15.00 /$10.00 student ticket option

25

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

From the desk of Munroe Falls Service Director, Jim Bowery

I

t’s that time of year again when our crews will be working day and night clearing snow and salting our streets.

Help us keep your streets clear by following these tips: • Remove vehicles from the street when snow accumulation is 2 inches or more.

• Never push or blow snow in the street – it creates traffic hazards.

• Plow drivers should never push snow off the property and into or across the street.

• Never put trash cans in the street. Clear

a place for trash cans to be emptied from the curb, not the street.

• Keep catch basins clear for proper drainage of melting snow and ice.

• If there is a fire hydrant near your yard, remove any snow and ice within a 3-foot perimeter so it is accessible.

• Secure your mailbox post. The weight of snow and ice can take down a poorly constructed or poorly installed mailbox.

Thank you in advance for your assistance and have a safe and healthy winter season.

New Ways to Pay! The Water Department recently upgraded the water billing system and now offers several NEW options to pay your water bill. Customers can now pay online with a check or credit card, set up optional recurring payments, manage and view your water bills. If you are not registered online, visit our website www.munroefalls.com, click “Payments Portal,” click “Pay Your Water Bill,” then click “Register” and complete the required information.

For Our Snowbirds If you are heading to a warmer climate during the cold weather months, you are referred to as a “Snowbird”. Here are some helpful tips when leaving your home for an extended time during the winter: • Turn off the water at the main shut off valve (near the water meter). Make sure the valve is fully operational. Older valves can easily break if they haven’t been used in a long time. Call your plumber to check or replace it if needed.

• Lower the thermostat, but do not turn off the heat. Set the temp no lower than 55° to prevent any water in the lines from freezing. Open cabinets so heat can reach lines that are located close to an outside wall.

• Complete a Vacation House Watch form at the Police Department.

• Contact the Water Department to let them know they can expect a drop in the water usage. We can even keep a watchful eye for any usage that might happen while you are away.

• Contact other utility and service providers like gas, electric, phone, satellite service or internet provider.

Lindsey Malin

Director of Business Development lmalin@serenityhospiceoh.com 4491 Darrow Rd. Suite 1 Stow, OH 44224 Office: (330) 686-9900 Cell: (216) 318-3462 Fax: (234) 525-6234 serenityhospiceoh.com 26

• Suspend newspaper delivery so the papers don’t pile up.

• Go to the post office and inquire about mail delivery options or stopping mail delivery.

• Have a trusted neighbor or friend check for flyers, door hangers, accumulating at your door.

• Unplug unnecessary electronics and appliances.

• Arrange to have snow removed from the driveway so it’s not obvious you are not home.

• Install timers on a few lights in the house.

• Don’t post travel plans on social media.

• Store valuables you are not taking with you in a safe or safety deposit box.

Winter Safety Tips • Make sure your home heating devices are in good working order.

• Get your central heating system cleaned, inspected, and serviced by a certified HVAC technician.

• If you have a gas heater, make sure that you have working carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home.

• Make sure any space heaters are surrounded by at least three feet of empty space.

• Turn off space heaters when you leave the house or go to bed.

• Get your chimney inspected each year to make sure that it is safe and never leave any fire unattended.

• Never leave burning candles unattended or when you go to sleep.

• Verify that all holiday lights and extension cords have been tested by an organization such as Factory Mutual or Underwriters Laboratory.

• Use only fire-retardant holiday decorations.

• Make sure there are sufficient smoke detectors in your home.

• Don’t leave food cooking unattended on the stove.

• Ensure your fire extinguishers are fully charged.

• Make sure young children know how to dial 911.

• Practice stop, drop, and roll with your children so they learn how to escape beneath a fire.

• Teach everyone in your family multiple ways to escape from every room in the event of a fire.

• Remember, there is nothing more important than the safety of your family.

• Have a Fire Safe Holiday Season.

All About Dance!

by Kristen

Promoting smiles, self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment since 1993!

Offering classes for ages 2 through adult.

(New sessions all year long) Try any class with our “2 for $2” Trial Classes!

We’ve Got Your Style!

330.688.6000 | 3038 Graham Road, Stow | allaboutdancebykristen.com

S M A R T SY S T E M TUNE UP Call Today and Save!

9495

$

17500

$

27

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Spotlight on Munroe Falls Parks & Recreation Board The Munroe Falls Parks & Recreation Board is a nine member group of volunteers appointed by the mayor and approved

by City Council to set policies and implement improvement projects for the Munroe Falls parks. The Board’s current project is a multi-year rejuvenation of the City’s Veterans Memorial in Guise Park. After a resident came to the board with concerns the memorial needed maintenance, the board kicked off a fundraiser selling memorial bricks dedicated to honor a veteran. Using these funds, the City has been able to clean and repair the stone surfaces, purchase a new sign visible from Munroe Falls Avenue, and make other improvements to the area.

Thompson Electric donated new and upgraded lighting and the project received financial support from Thompson Electric, Stow-Munroe Falls Community Foundation, Stow-Munroe Falls Rotary Club, Munroe Falls Historical Society, Munroe Falls Garden Club, Summit County Master Gardeners, Acker Moore Memorial Post 4738, American Legion Post 175 and approximately 100 individuals who purchased memorial bricks.

The board is very grateful to all these generous donors! Bricks are available to purchase through Memorial Day, May 30, 2022.

If you are interested in buying a brick, contact the Park Board at MunroeFallsParkBoard@googlegroups.com or through our Facebook page!

Additionally, the Board hosts several events throughout the year such as the garlic mustard weed pull in the Spring, the Veterans Memorial Ceremony, the Tree Lighting Ceremony and the unveiling of our newest project, Sparkle in the Park. Check out our upcoming events at www.munroefalls.com or our Facebook page.

(L to R) Gary Toth, John Impellizzeri, Evelyn Taylor, Debbie Clark, Annette Oborn, Lindsey Stone, Beth Stuber, Ross Widenor (not pictured: Cassie Weyer and Nicholas Poorbaugh)

(L to R) John Impellizzeri, Lindsey Stone, Gary Toth, Evelyn Taylor, Debbie Clark, Beth Stuber, Annette Oborn, Ross Widenor (not pictured: Cassie Weyer and Nicholas Poorbaugh)

SPARKLE IN THE PARK Join us on Friday, December 3, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. for our Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and the opening of our Sparkle in the Park. Bring family and friends to enjoy a leisurely walk through Guise Park enjoying festive holiday displays. Sparkle in the Park will be open through January 3, 2022. Over the next few years, the Park Board’s goal is to expand sparkly holiday displays throughout Guise Park. Through generous support from local businesses and residents, the first phase will be ready to enjoy on December 3, 2021.

A big thank you to major sponsor Larry Thompson and Thompson Electric. Thompson Electric has generously supplied us with the electrical components needed to produce the “Sparkle” for our Sparkle in the Park.

28

Thank you to all our sponsors for their generous donations: • Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Simon & Salhany Realty • Kiwanis Club of Stow-Munroe Falls • Kremer Realty • Kyocera • Meijer • Meneer School of Dance • Munroe Falls Garden Club • Oak Group Inc. • Petitti Garden Centers • Professional Technical Sales Associates • Rotary Club of Stow-Munroe Falls • Shuman Plumbing Inc. • Small Steps-Big Strides Child Care • Stow-Munroe Falls Community Foundation • Stow Munroe Falls Lions Club • Studio 9 Salon & Spa • Teammates Center • Thompson Electric • Western Reserve Hospital

Feeling STUCK with your current employer?

ADHERE to a growing company that cares.

Join the Mactac team today!

Your Connection for Success

The SMFCC provides resources, professional development, and purposeful events to connect and grow your business.

Key Dates: January 12

(CBC Group) Coffee, Business, Connect - A new business referral group if you do business in Stow and Munroe Falls. Build connections over coffee with like-minded business professionals who believe in the power of relationships.

February 3

“Save the date” - The Elite Business Awards presented by the SMF Chamber of Commerce - A celebration of business and economic development in Stow and Munroe Falls.

June 4

The New SMF Business Showcase - The Showcase is back with a leaner look and a business focus.

Check out our website for more events, resources, and programming at www.smfcc.com

29

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

DID YOU KNOW?!

About Thompson Electric, Inc.’s recent partnership with SemaConnect: Project: In partnership with SemaConnect, Thompson Electric, Inc. (TEI) recently installed Electrical Vehicle (EV) charging stations in the parking lot of their corporate offices located at 49 Northmoreland Ave., Munroe Falls, Ohio. They are presently open to the public.

What was installed?

• SemaConnect Series 7+ Dual Pedestal Charging Station • SemaConnect Series 6 Single Pedestal Charging Station • These stations are designed and built for commercial and fleet applications, featuring built-in alerts, and a smart dashboard that can report on electricity used, carbon offset, and fuel savings

Why was it installed?

• To help in the reduction of carbon emissions • To facilitate TEI’s current EV fleet • To continue to offer their visiting customers and community leaders with the utmost convenience and the latest in service in EV charging • To inform their customers that TEI can serve as a certified installer of EV charging solutions • To add to their state-of-the-art facility • To power up the local community

(L to R) Scott Thompson, President of Thompson Electric and Mayor James W. Armstrong at TEI’s corporate office in Munroe Falls.

More about SemaConnect A complete EV support partner, SemaConnect is making transportation electrification possible in this decade through innovative, elegantly designed charging stations, a robust and open network platform, and an unparalleled charging experience for drivers and station owners. Since their founding in 2008, SemaConnect has installed thousands of smart charging stations. SemaConnect remains the preferred charging solutions partner to municipal, parking, multifamily, hotel, office, retail, and commercial fleet customers in the United States, Canada, and India.

Did You Know?

As the Covid-19 Pandemic continues, we understand the stressors that can accompany everyday life. We work hard to ensure that clients are matched with the right counselor, because we know that relationship is crucial to your success.

Our team members have undergone specialized training that will help you get back on the path to your best life.

• • •

Online and in-person appointments available We will work with your insurance, and offer all KSU students, faculty, and staff a discount Seven of our employees are KSU Alumni

We love working with students in all stages of their college journey!

3425 Kent Road • Stow Oh 44224 www.middlepathOH.com • (330) 835-7477 30

Thompson Electric, Inc. (TEI) is a full-service electrical contracting company that started right here in Munroe Falls in 1977 by father and son, and has grown to be one of the largest electrical contractors in our Community with over 300 employees. TEI offers electrical contracting and emergency services for any and all electrical applications ranging from residential to utility installations.

TEI’s employees are extensively trained and committed to safety.

All employees receive four to five years of classroom and field related training, conducted and approved in accordance with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).

TEI’s service employees are trained and certified by the Electrical Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program (EVITP). EVITP is an Industry recognized, National Program that was designed to train electricians for the installation of Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE) in North America. Having installed various EV charging units in Northeast Ohio, TEI has quickly become the industry leader in EVSE solutions. TEI’s specialists will put you at ease throughout every step of the selection and installation process.

You have researched your Electrical Vehicle. TEI has researched your charger. Let the TEI pros do your work!

APPLY TODAY AT STEP2.COM/CAREERS

STARTING PAY $16-$21/hr MACHINE OPERATORS & ASSEMBLY

WE’RE HIRING! COME JOIN OUR TEAM THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

NEW WAGES! Sign-On Bonus + Attendance Bonus + Product Discounts PLUS SEVERAL OTHER PERKS

S to w

v

ve E e

n mor ew

it h

Sa

Low Prices, Friendly People, Fast Checkout!

L ow

Consistent

We’ve

PR

ICE S

LOWERED PRICES on the Items You Buy the Most!

Quick & Easy WALK-IN VACCINATIONS! Covid-19 • Flu • Meningitis Pneumonia • Shingles • Tdap See Pharmacy for Details.

See Our Knowledgeable & Caring Pharmacists Today!

Corey Sawaya Pharmacist

Kyle Kamlowsky Pharmacist