Middlefield Post
March 6, 2013
Senior Living – A New Healthier You!
Senior Volunteers Support Library By Christina Porter
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he Friends of the Library Book Sale Room at the Middlefield Library is run by a dedicated staff of about 15 volunteers, all retired and in their 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. They love books, and among their ranks are three retired school teachers. Dorothy Allen, a feisty nonagenarian, insists nobody is in charge, but it is clearly her leadership that keeps the store thriving. Before the Middlefield Library moved to its present location 8 years ago, Dorothy was involved in running the quarterly book sales at the old library. She recalls storing donated books for the sales in her home garage when there was no space left in the library for them and doing whatever else was needed to make the sales successful. As Dorothy states, “Every single penny earned by book sales goes back to the library.” The group pays for supplies, refreshments and incidentals for both children’s and adult programs and other things that cannot be purchased within the library’s budget. Dorothy constantly praises her
volunteer staff, the workers at the circulation desk who promote the shop and answer questions when it’s closed, and the generous public support, both in sales and donations; three entire libraries have been bequeathed to the Friends of the Middlefield Library through library patrons’ wills. Ms. Allen stated that the quality of donations is on the rise, and the selection is incredible. There are books available for each member of the family and to suit every taste. Entering the library, patrons pass the beautiful statue of the reading children out front, which was purchased entirely by the Friends group. A kind person recently made the two figures scarves to keep them warm in winter weather, which adds a whimsical and amusing touch to the lovely piece of art. Once inside, it’s impossible not to take time to admire the stained glass window, which was created by a local artist. It depicts children reading. Along either side, images of everything we all love to read about in books, like dinosaurs, dolphins and even Winnie the Pooh, can be found.
The Friends of the Middlefield Library Library is located at 16167 E. High St. are a group of wonderful people who are (44062), 440-632-1961. happy to volunteer for such a great cause. They are so dedicated and loyal, they seldom take time off. One even called Dorothy while admitted to the Cleveland Clinic to apologize that she could not make her shift. The next time you attend a library program, remember that it’s likely the Friends of the Middlefield Library had a hand in making your experience so rich. The Friends of the Library Book Sale Room is open irregular hours on Saturdays and from noon to 3 p.m. weekdays. The beautiful stained glass window in the Friends of the Library Book Sale The Middlefield Room at the Middlefield Library.
Cancer Survivor at 60 Years, Walked 60 Miles
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Susan Howard and Samantha Davison represented Relay for Life at the 11th annual Chili Cook-Off on Feb. 23 at the Middlefield Market Pavillion.
andra Gale Howard will be 62 in April. She is a third-generation breast cancer survivor. Her grandmother, mother, father and she were all struck with the disease. Her story motivated her to do what she could to help find a cure for cancer. She was diagnosed Jan. 14, 2003 with a very aggressive cancer, but was saved by what was then a brand a new treatment option. After surgery, 6 months of chemotherapy and 33 radiation treatments, she was cancer free. Her faith in God had given her the hope she needed to see that even with this illness, all would be okay. It is this message she most wants to share to encourage others. At age 60, Sandra walked the three-day, 60-mile Susan G. Komen walk in 2011, for the second time. She has participated in numerous relays, 20-hour walks and 24-hour walks. She also sells daffodils to raise money for
cancer research, wigs, support groups, education, research and many other things to help cancer patients. This year Sandra will be involved with a purple tie survivor reception for cancer survivors and their caregivers April 20 at Cardinal Middle School from 2 to 5 p.m. She will, of course, participate in the May 4 Relay For Life at Cardinal High School where she also plans to donate her hair to Locks of Love. Sandra hopes her actions will set an example for the younger generation of being willing to serve and donate time and resources. As she says, “You’re never too young or too old to try to serve others.” To learn about Middlefield’s upcoming Relay For Life, visit www.relay.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_ id=49543&pg=entry