Giving Grace
by Amy Barnes
When I first heard of the huge number of young adults, ages 20 to 30, who are cutting all contact with one or more of their family members (mostly parents) and it is not based on abuse, I was stunned. Why would they cut contact instead of trying to work it out? When did family lose its value?
Through research, I found thousands who are going through overwhelming grief as their children, now grown, cut all contact with them.
Sometimes a reason is given, most often there is no reason. Sometimes there is not even a notification of any kind, just sudden silence.
The overwhelming number I found were mothers and grandmothers who had dedicated their lives to caring for their children and who were looking forward to the adult years when they could enjoy family gatherings, suddenly find themselves adrift in a sea of questions and confusion.
If you have not experienced this, it makes it that much harder to understand, but offering sympathy and support to those who grieve is helpful.These women
are grieving their loss, but cannot have a funeral, cannot get much community support.
The snide remark that “well, at least YOUR child is still alive,” is not only not helpful, but also outright harmful.
As you read this month’s feature story, please open your hearts to the words.
A local woman agreed to share her story but only on the condition that her and her family’s real names not be used because she feared repercussions from friends and internet trolls.
Her plate is full already, and she doesn’t think she could withstand unfounded accusations that would only cause harm.
It will be interesting, in years to come, if these same children who cut contact will one day come back, when life has knocked them down, looking for the parents they shunned to help them.
Thank you, Peggy, for being willing to share your story.
If you would like to write a Letter to the Editor, the guidelines are in “Out of the Box,” look for its location on the Table of Contents.
VOLUME 7, NUMBER 6
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Hannah Magrum
Mary Olson
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Contents
A SENSE OF FAMILY
18 19 6 11 14 16 17
by Amy Barnes
When Peggy’s children said they were going no-contact, it took days for the news to sink in. She did not realize she had just joined legions of other moms, dads and family members who are going through the same heartbreak.
THE READING NOOK MAKING MEMORIES
by D. J. Barnett
A visit to summer days gone by THE READING NOOK WHEN THE CALL FOR HELP IS ANSWERED: CHAPTER 4
by Hannah Magrum
In her own words and in monthly installments, we are following Hannah Magrum’s journey of the work that goes into being matched with a service dog. Four years of waiting was just the beginning.
BUSINESS
APPLAUSE!
Congratulations to Whispering Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary! and MCBDD scholarship winner
THE NETWORKER NETWORKING THERAPY
by Bob Arnold
There is an easy way to defeating social anxiety.
DOING BUSINESS
A calendar of area networking events
INVENTION CONVENTION
Patents recently granted to Medina County residents.
HOME AND GARDEN
VEGAN VITTLES EASY HOMEMADE SALSA
by Chris Pickens
Combine these seven ingredients to add zing to a gathering.
DIG IT! CREATING A MONOCHROMATIC GARDEN
by Michelle Riley
Pick a color, then meet the challenge.
CRITTER CRAWL EVEN AQUARIUMS BENEFIT FROM CYCLING
by Paris Deeter
Health issues can arise if this important chore is ignored.
On the front and back covers: photos by Amy Barnes Sogbety Diomande, a West African dancer, performed at the Third Annual Juneteenth celebration in Uptown Park in Medina’s Public Square.
HEALTH
OF MIND AND BODY RETHINKING DETOXES
by Amanda Liptak
Expensive products are not necessary and can cause more harm than good. Here are some better options.
BACK TO OUR ROOTS LITTLE KNOWN RISK OF ELDERBERRY SYRUP
by Stephanie Polinski
After taking several herbal remedy classes, the author shares what she has learned, with her own tricks and tips added, with included disclaimer.
COMMUNITY
MUNCHING WITH JOY
A different area of Medina County each month!
OUT OF THE BOX
Guidelines on submitting letters to the editor for publication.
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
OFF THE SHELF FROM STRANGERS TO SPARK
by Mary Olson
On a cross-country 200-mile walk, there is time for healing. JOYFUL
MIRTH AND JOY
by Jerry King
Our monthly cartoon by a former Disney cartoonist
OH, SNAP!
photos by Amy Barnes
Photos of people performing and enjoying Medina’s Juneteenth celebration
LET’S DO IT!
Find fun and adventure in our calendar of events.
JOYFUL LETTER DETECTIVES
Can you find the words about family? ?
Read the clue, collect the magnifying glass letters, and solve the puzzle!
CELEBRATE!
A clickable directory of vetted businesses who bring you Joy!
photo by Bella Huang
A Sense of Family
by Amy Barnes
Thereis a change quietly rippling its way across the U.S. that is causing families to be torn apart and is dramatically changing the parent-adult child dynamic.
A wave of adult and near-adult children are choosing to completely cut contact with either one or both of their parents.
They also are attempting to switch the dynamic so that they are chastising and disciplining
the parents.
In some cases, the adult children set boundaries that are impossible to meet. Such as telling a parent she can see her grandchildren from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. If she arrives a minute late, the visit is cancelled, and she is chastised for being late and told that all contact is now ended because she could not respect boundaries.
Not much research has been done on the trend
photo by Patricia Prudente
toward estrangement, but Psychology Today reports that one in four children cut contact with one or more family members when grown.
While, in some cases, contact must be cut for the welfare of the child, grown or otherwise, there is a new wave of grown children who are choosing estrangement over family traditions that have nothing to do with abuse.
For the parents, there is shock, pain, confusion, and a sense of betrayal all wrapped in their love for their offspring.
The shock the parents feel is the same kind of shock that workers experience when they show up for work only to find a “Permanently Closed” sign on the business doors.
Suddenly, they find they have been fired from their jobs as parents and grandparents and their support and love are no longer wanted.
Lost, confused, heartbroken, the one question they all ask repeatedly is “Why?” as they struggle to find ways to deal with the stages of grief.
In these cases of parental rejection, instead of trying to have a discussion or work out problems or misunderstandings, members of the 20- to 30-year-old crowd are choosing instead to completely cut contact.
While parents are adjusting to this new reality, many feel shame for being rejected by their own children.
They are embarrassed to tell family members and friends that their children are no longer speaking to them. They are worried about how others will view their situation.
Some worry they will be accused of abuse and thus struggle with how they will handle the subject with new people they meet when the estrangement makes no more sense to them than it does to outsiders.
When friends and family find out a parent has been cut off, it is common for their first words to be, “Why? What did you do to them?”
We will be calling her Peggy and her husband Rick. The children, in age order, will be Sally, Calvin, June, and Kiki.
If you are struggling with the heartbreak of your child cutting contact, please seek help through therapy. For support from others going through the same grief, there are also numerous groups that can be found on social media. For mothers and grandmothers, in particular, is “Estranged Mothers and Grandmothers: Millions Strong,” which can be found at https://tinyurl.com/2vhhc276
The Root of Grief
After graduating college, Peggy and a coworker became friends, which led to an engagement and marriage.
Over the next several years, Peggy and her husband, Rick, had four children and Peggy gave up her career to become a stay-at-home mom.
She loved doing crafts with the children and running the household. She loved making homemade cookies from scratch and coming up with new craft ideas for the kids.
At night, after dinner, she did the dishes while Rick would settle in with the kids and enthusiastically read them stories, even when the children asked for the same story night after night.
When the children started school, the teachers wanted to know what preschool the kids had attended.
“I was always so proud when they asked me what preschool the kids had attended. They said the kids were really well educated,” Peggy said, adding, “It was all just from playing outside, doing crafts, watching shows like ‘Sesame Street’ and being read to.”
Peggy truly loved being a mom, but as the years flew by, the longer she was a stay-at-home mom, the less Rick seemed to value her.
Once upon a time that was a fair question, but things have changed.
The following is a local woman’s story. She wishes to remain anonymous for fear of how her community will view her.
When her children cut contact with her, she was taken completely by surprise.
She was planning to provide the cake for her son’s wedding, as he had requested, and was arranging transportation to the wedding.
One night, as they headed upstairs to put the children to bed, he suddenly started yelling at her how worthless she was. It was so random and unexpected, Peggy had trouble catching her breath.
Rick never hit her, but the mental abuse he dished out to both her and the children caused the laughter to slowly disappear.
As the mental abuse continued to escalate, Peggy began to worry that it would become physical.
One time, Sally had an ear infection and Rick took the opportunity to yell full force into the infected ear.
Peggy hoped that a temporary separation would
continued from page 7
give everyone a re-set and a chance for Rick to remember what he had once respected and loved about her. It also would give her some time to think.
“I realized that the more children we had, the more stressed Rick had become, and I had hoped a break from all of us would help, he wasn’t used to having so many people around him all of the time,” Peggy said. “He was such a good man when we met. He and I agreed on so many principles.”
They tried counseling, which did not work.
Unfortunately, instead of things improving, Rick’s rage escalated rapidly, and a divorce became the only answer.
Custody arrangements were agreed to and life went on with all of the usual ups and downs of split families.
Peggy said that there was always at least one parent at the kids’ orchestra performances, plays, talent shows, choir performances, art shows, and more.
“It was important that the kids always knew they could count on at least one of us being there to cheer and clap for them,” said Peggy.
The years continued to fly by. The oldest child, Sally, was struggling with so many things that no one understood. Peggy tried, but by the time she realized there were real problems, communication
had all but ended between her and the oldest.
Eventually, Sally went to live with the kids’ dad after Peggy tried to take her to the hospital when Sally was screaming she was going to kill herself.
“That was so hard. I wanted to help her so bad but I had no idea what to do. I’d tried taking her to counseling but because she made high grades in school and successfully masked her internal conflicts from others, no one would listen,” said Peggy. “They told me that honor roll students don’t have problems.”
Soon after Sally graduated from college, she cut all contact with Peggy.
“By that point, all I could do was hope that she would one day find the help she needed so she could have peace and happiness,” Peggy said.
But this in no way prepared Peggy for what was to come, and it would be a few more years before there would be the total devastation of everything Peggy had lived for and built.
“The whole time the kids were growing up, I envisioned one day when they were adults, we would sit around at holiday time and talk, they would share stories about their lives, we would have the true family gatherings I never got to enjoy when I grew up because I had lost all of my family members.”
Then, one year, Peggy had a very rough summer. There had been the suicide of an exboyfriend who proposed just four days before he killed himself, one of her dogs had died on a Monday and by the following Saturday she was having to make the decision to have another of her dogs euthanized, and yet the hardest blow was to come two weeks later.
During that summer, two of the children had birthdays.
The youngest, Kiki, turned 21. Because the youngest wanted to start sewing and already had shown she had a lot of talent making things and had even started her own business, Peggy bought an expensive sewing machine for her.
When Calvin arranged, through texting, a time to call her, Peggy was looking forward to having a chat with her son. His words would not be ones she was prepared to hear.
He told her that he had changed his mind and no longer wanted her to make his wedding cake and that she was uninvited to his wedding that was taking place in a month. He read a script to her, telling her that he no longer wanted to have contact with her.
“My heart shattered. I couldn’t believe that this boy I had raised and loved with all of my heart was cutting me out of his life. I felt like screaming. I begged him not to do it, to instead tell me what was causing this. He was even crying.
photo by Mateusz Butkiewicz
“He had only half the story of a car accident with a deer I had been in, that my son wasn’t even in the same state for, and blamed me for it when it was not my fault at all.
“We talked for three hours, the whole time I struggled to find something, anything I could say that would keep this horrible thing from happening. I failed. I kept talking, hoping that if I could keep him on the phone long enough it would make a difference. He said that he knew I had done my best as a single mom, but it wasn’t good enough. He said he was angry with me because I had not raised him autistic, even though he had not been diagnosed until he was well into his college career.
“I have never felt so helpless in my life. I asked him if he was keeping contact with his father. He said yes and his dad was invited to the wedding even though he acknowledged the abuse his father had dished out to him and his siblings. His reason? ‘Well, he abused us, but I never took it as personal because I always figured he was abusing us to hurt you, not to hurt us.’ And that was where our conversation ended. I could not stop crying. My last words to him were, ‘I love you.’ ”
Unfortunately for Peggy, that was just the beginning of 24 hours of heartbreak.
It would soon come to light that while Peggy
was doing without in order to pay for the sewing machine, the now-adult children were talking to each other and had come to a decision that they would cut all contact with her.
“They never even gave me a chance to clear up their misunderstandings, to provide the other half of stories that they had turned into stories of lies about just about everything from their childhood,” Peggy said, as her eyes filled with tears at the memory of what was said.
Next, came the text from June, her third born, asking for help removing her phone from Peggy’s account.
“I was starting to feel dead inside. I could feel what was coming but didn’t want to. I asked June if she was going to break contact, too. She said her original plan was to cut contact after removing her phone from my plan but there was no point waiting now. She said she would send a letter to explain.”
It was more than two weeks later that the letter arrived.
“The summation was that June was upset because I had not changed to plural or genderneutral pronouns fast enough. I am using female pronouns here to avoid confusion. I had tried to explain that I had called her by female pronouns for 23 years, it was going to take time and practice to
photo by Alex Jones
change. I told June I loved her no matter what she was, she would always be my child. While June demanded grace and understanding and respect, she gave none. That was the last time I heard from her. I made sure that the last words she heard from me were, ‘I love you.’ ”
Not wanting to wait for the other shoe to drop, Peggy called her youngest child, Kiki, and asked if she was going to lose her, too.
The response was a very guarded, “Why?”
Peggy said she was asking because the other two had and the youngest usually followed them.
It was that final “yes,” that Peggy says made her go completely numb. The grief was so intense, she had no way to handle it.
Two of the kids said, as they cut contact, that they expected her to commit suicide.
Peggy said that, for a while, she blindly kept functioning after losing the children. Too much had happened too quickly.
She was reluctant to lean on friends because she would have had to explain what was happening and she wasn’t sure all of them would be understanding.
It was not until she happened onto a group on social media of mothers and grandmothers who had the same thing happen to them that she finally was able to find some peace and acceptance.
The group she joined had more than 9,000 members and they all told the same story over and over. Stories of grown or nearly grown children suddenly breaking contact.
Some coming back only for money or help and then disappearing again. Many breaking contact years ago and not being heard from since.
Women who were happily married, women who were divorced, women who did not date while raising their kids, women who did date.
They all had the same story, Peggy said.
She said that it is like the 20- to 30-somethings are following a script.
That led to an internet search, where it was found there is indeed numerous scripts and instructions on how to break contact with any family member whom the adult children have labeled as “toxic,” which covers a wide range of transgressions, such as “your mother doesn’t show you respect.”
They are urged by those posting instructions to set and enforce boundaries and to not try to reason
with the parents.
“These women, and I am one of them, are grieving the loss of their children and grandchildren, yet the children are still alive and there is little to no support for the grief we are experiencing. Not one of us claims to have been a perfect mom, but we did the best we could with what we knew. We are going through all the phases of grief. It is like a half-death. You can’t have a funeral, but you can’t give up hope. You may never see them again or they just might suddenly pop up in a social media post or in a store you are shopping at or at your front door,” Peggy said.
“Many of us had built whole inheritances for our children, now some of us debate what to do with property, money and more while others are selling everything,” said Peggy.
Some are even moving far from where they raised their children in an attempt to start new lives. Some are staying firmly in the family home so they easily can be found, hoping that one day their grown children will reconsider their decision and open the door to discussion.
“I think the worst part of all is the judgment from others. Here we are, deeply grieving the loss of our children, our dreams of what the future would be like and those blessed enough to not have this happening to them sit in judgment and say that we must have abused our children.
“Not one of us is perfect, but these are not abuse cases. These are cases of children who somehow have been influenced to believe that there is no advantage to discussion, who find it easier to not deal with emotions or anything uncomfortable. There also seems to be a rejection of not just the parent, but also of the idea of family, where if one member needs help, the others step in,” Peggy said.
Where therapists have traditionally advocated communication and keeping relationships intact, there is a new group of therapists who are advocating the ending of all communication and interaction.
“It is like our 20- and 30-somethings heard a pied piper and are following without a thought to what they are losing. Or maybe they think we will just be sitting here, waiting for them to make a grand entrance to see if we have learned our ‘lesson.’”
Making Memories
by D.J. Barnett
Get up in the morning, With the new rising sun. You eat a quick breakfast, Hurry, get the chores done.
It’s a beautiful day, With white clouds in the sky. In wide circles flying, You can hear a hawk cry.
Gotta meet all the guys, As you hop on your bike. Summer day for us to Do whatever we like.
The twins, Billy and Bob. Wait with Matt, John and Drew. Now we have to decide, Just what we’re gonna do.
Maybe down to the creek, Catch some crawfish and frogs, Ride past old man Brown's Place, Best watch out for his dogs.
Then down to the diamond, For a game of baseball. We stop on the way to, Pick up Eddie and Paul.
A bunch of guys waiting, Let’s have us a ballgame. We pick Mikey and Bob, And that kid, what’s his name?
Let’s head back to my house, We can have us some lunch. Sandwiches and Kool-Aid, And my Ma’s apple crunch.
Head back out on our bikes, With canteens and backpacks. For a hike in the woods, That lay out past the tracks.
An abandoned old shack, Let’s save it from ruin.
Like his carpenter Dad, Bob knows what he’s doing.
The sun’s starting to set, Make our way back towards home. All laughing and joking, But all tired to the bone.
We stop at the corner, And we say our farewells. Leave laughing and smiling, With some stories to tell.
As I ride on back home, In the fading sun’s hue. We weren't just having fun, Making memories too.
Now those friends are long gone, And the years fade away. I remember them all, Still to this very day.
Don Barnett lives in Hinckley with his wife, April; his son, Robert; and daughter, Skylar. He is a 1975 graduate of Highland High School and recently retired from Century Cycle’s Medina location after being there for 20 years. He enjoys cycling and other outdoor activities.
photo by Alfred Schrock
Smaller parcels are available. Limited availability, call now for choice of best locations.
This is the first-account story of Medina resident Hannah Magrum and her journey to gaining a service dog and independence. We join her already four years into her effort, as she trains with her new service dog, Robbie. The first installment of their journey can be found on Page 6 of the April 2024 issue ( https://tinyurl.com/5h89wc46 ) and each month thereafter.
When the Call for Help is Answered: Chapter 4
story and photos by Hannah Magrum
Robbie
and I have settled into a routine, she often knows what I need before I ask her, but I still make sure to have her wait for me to ask her to do the task.
Occasionally, she is still not sure what I am asking her to do, so she has some default tasks that she will do to see if those might be what I am asking.
Her favorite default task is the cue I give her to either spin right or left. I call it her browser setting. I joke that it is her brain loading, because, much like an internet page that shows a spinning circle while it loads, she, too, will turn in a circle as a default.
We continue to bond, and, at this point, while she likes other people, her preferred person is me.
Occasionally I will give her a break in the afternoon thinking she might enjoy playing in the backyard with the kids.
We have learned, however, that is not what she prefers. She, instead, always wants to be with me.
I got a haircut recently, while she waited with my friend in the waiting area. Because she could hear me but not see me, she whined the entire time and was so relieved when I finally was in her eyesight again.
Robbie seems to gain a fan club wherever we go. Checking out at a store, she almost always
handles paying for my purchases. She takes my debit card, puts her paws on the counter, and hands my payment cared to the cashier.
This gets Robbie lots of positive comments and feedback. People did not know a service dog could do that task.
She knows more than 20 different cues, and we combine some of them to accomplish what I need.
For example, I will give her the cue to take something from me and the cue to go find my husband, she will then deliver to him whatever item I have given her.
Luckily, we still have not had any access issues anywhere we have gone. Because I am a wheelchair user, I think access for me and Robbie is likely easier than for someone who has an invisible disability.
In a very strange way, I carry a privilege that I never need to explain why I need her or what my disability is.
Service dogs can be trained to do so many more cues than people realize, some service dogs are scent trained and can tell changes in heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar changes, and can sense an oncoming seizure as well.
I do not need any of that assistance, so Robbie is solely trained on mitigating my physical disability,
“But, Mom, wwwwhhhhyyyy do I have to wear these shoes?”
but I think it is important to recognize that every handler and every service dog has unique needs and they are not always physical in nature.
In order to qualify for a service dog you do need to be considered disabled and the service dog has to be able to complete specific tasks for the handler to mitigate or aid with their disability.
Robbie is a program-trained service dog and has passed rigorous training as well as testing to qualify as a service dog. For her entire life, we will continue to train and develop new tasks as necessary.
Some teams self-train their service dogs which is also OK as there is no requirement for professional training. Either of these avenues can be appropriate.
I do have a letter from my doctor that prescribes the necessity of Robbie. Although a letter is not necessary, it does mean I can use my health savings account (HSA) to cover all costs associated with Robbie’s care including her vet bills.
Robbie is considered medical equipment and is not just considered a dog that assists with tasks. Stay tuned, we have a busy summer planned!
Hannah Magrum has Charcut Marie Tooth and uses a variety of mobility aids. She is passionate about disability advocacy and being an advisor who focuses her financial practice on helping those with disabilities financially plan for the future.
Robbie keeps an eye on things with Hannah Magrum at a school event while Corbin peeks from a poster.
Networking Therapy
by Bob Arnold
ApplAUse!
New hires, promotions, certifications earned, and announcements
Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities awarded its $1,500 MCBDD Donor Scholarship to Connor Pugh, who will graduate in the spring from Brunswick High School and the Medina County Career Center. Pugh plans to become an intervention specialist for kindergarten through fifth grade. For more information about the services offered by MCBDD, go to http://www.mcbdd.org/
Sitting in my backyard with the many birds singing, drinking and washing in the bird bath, going about their many tasks with such vigor, I am reminded of an article I read recently of a young girl.
She was in her twenties and had a lot of crippling anxiety. It was highly recommended that she attend therapy sessions. Her response, since that route had failed several times before, was to join a bird-watching group in her area.
She found that by focusing on other creatures and being with like-minded individuals she was able to overcome her anxiety. The very act of focusing on others was the ticket to freedom.
In therapy sessions, she said that all of the focus was on her and that was not helping. So, she started focusing on others, and she was helped.
It is ironic that this article crossed my path, because I wrote my first book about networking simply because so many people were coming to me and expressing the high level of anxiety they had when even thinking about networking. Yet, they knew networking would help them in the pursuit of business and personal pursuits.
Whispering Acres Farm Animal Sanctuary recently had more than the usual chaos and excitement on the farm when a movie film crew visited to film scenes from “Hollow Lake.” Janine Smalley, farm owner, describes the movie as a gay horror film. For more information about the sanctuary, go to https://tinyurl.com/54u7nwf3
Has your business or an employee done something that should get applause or does your nonprofit have an announcement? E-mail the information to Joy@ BlakeHousePublishing.com and put “Applause” in the subject line. This is a free service for this magazine’s advertisers. There is a $50 charge for all nonadvertising businesses.
Business Owners and Decision Makers: You know reputation is everything and whom you hang out with matters. Want your company to be seen with the very BEST area companies and get your message to our readers? Call 330-461-0589
Networking is all about others.
When networking, focus on how to help others find the connections they need to move forward. Avoid what most tend to do and attend a networking group and focus only on their own needs. They then leave the event and find they did not accomplish what they wanted to accomplish.
Look for others in the room that have similar interests to yours, like bird watching. Then build a friendship around it. You will find that discussing business pursuits is much easier and have more satisfying results.
In the end, more business and referrals are gained by helping others than when focused on self.
The simplest way to beat anxiety is to find like-minded others you can network with. Try it out, it works!
Bob Arnold is the founder of ONward Networking and the international best-selling author of “The Uncanny Power of the Networking Pencil,” which can be purchased at https://amzn.to/2KSy3Xm. Learn more about Arnold at https://bit.ly/3VLzr1S Contact Arnold at TheNetworkingPencil@gmail.com
photo by Chris Smith
Doing Business
Local business networking events, not category restricted Greater Medina Chamber of Commerce Chamber membership requirement after two events.
Tuesday, June 4
Monthly Member Meeting: Ken Babby, Akron RubberDucks, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Williams on the Lake, 787 Lafayette Road, Medina. Chamber members, $22. Guests, $27. Register at https://tinyurl.com/zb7d4864
Thursday, June 13
BusinessBrew, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Blue Heron Brewery, 3227 Blue Heron Trace, Medina. No cost. Register at https:// tinyurl.com/5xybdtzu
Wednesday, June 19
Networking WOW! 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., Williams on the Lake, 787 Lafayette Road, Medina. No walk-ins. $12 member attendance charge, $15 non-member attendance charge. Register at https://tinyurl.com/34fm6ytx
Friday, July 26
Chamber Chat, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., United Way Summit Medina, 23 Public Square, L-1, Medina. Free. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mk72ms7d
Northern Medina County Chamber Alliance Chamber membership requirement after two events.
Wednesday, July 17
NMCCA After Hours: Nature Walk and Panini’s, walk is 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and social at Panini’s 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Panini’s Bar and Grill 3520 Center Road, Brunswick. Free. Register at https://tinyurl.com/27nk2bz7
Wadsworth Area Chamber of Commerce
Chamber membership requirement after two events. Monday, July 8
Women in Leadership Luncheon, noon to 1 p.m., Soprema Senior Center, 517 School Drive, Wadsworth. Speaker: Jennifer Nageotte, partner, Diamond Storage Solutions. $15 per person, includes lunch. Register at https://tinyurl. com/33tt6vy8
Wednesday, July 24
Chamber Luncheon: Speed Networking Event, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Galaxy Restaurant and Event Center, 201 Park Center Drive, Wadsworth. $20 per person. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mryvcpdt
Seville Area Chamber of Commerce
Thursday, September 12
Monthly Chamber Meeting, noon, virtual meeting. For more information, go to https://tinyurl.com/362rm6hy
Invention Convention
Patents recently granted to Medina County residents. Only county residents are included, although there may be additional people listed as patent grantees. Want to learn more about any of the patents? Put the number into the patent search at https://tinyurl.com/yyzef5sy
Patent for: Device and Method for Monitoring and Assessment of Movement Disorder Symptoms Number: 11,986,317
To: Joseph P. Giuffrida
City of Residence: Hinckley
Patent for: Tool Holder Including a Threated Actuator Number: 11,986,937
To: Everett A. Crosby
City of Residence: Homerville
Patent for: Lid Number: D1,027,639
To: Gustavo A. Morales
City of Residence: Brunswick
To: Charles T. Buckel Jr.
City of Residence: Valley City
Patent for: Tire Number: D1,027, 811
To: Lac An Nguyen
City of Residence: Wadsworth
Patent for: Sight Enhancer Number: D1,028,160
To: Matthew Balli
City of Residence: Homerville
Patent for: Self-Sealing Pneumatic Tire Number: 11,993, 106
To: George Jim Papakonstantopoulos
City of Residence: Medina
Patent for: Chute Control Assembly for a Snow Thrower Number: 11,993,903
To: Michael Wright
City of Residence: Wadsworth
To: Keith Fortlage
City of Residence: Medina
Patent for: Hinge Number: 11,993,969
To: Les S. Weinerman
City of Residence: Medina
To: Scott Arthurs
City of Residence: Brunswick
Patent for: Alcohol Containing Non-Antimicrobial Cleansing Composition
Number: 11,998,626
To: Amanda Jo Copeland
City of Residence: Seville
Patent for: Sanitizer Composition With Probiotic/Prebiotic Active Ingredient Number: 11,998,575
To: Amanda Copeland
City of Residence: Seville
Patent for: System and Method for Producing and Processing Transportation and Shipping Documentation Number: 12,001,995
To: Charles Edwin Dressler
City of Residence: Wadsworth
To: Michael James Dressler
City of Residence: Wadsworth
Patent for: Toilet Skirt Number: 12,006,674
To: Nina L. Schaldach
City of Residence:
Patent for: Tire Number: D1,030,628
To: Jordan S. Prise
City of Residence: Medina
photo by Pavel Neznanov
HOME AND GARDEN: VEGAN VITTLES
Easy Homemade Salsa
by Chris Pickens
What better way to enjoy a traditional Mexican side dish than to make it yourself? Easy, simple, very delicious, and, of course, nutritious!. This recipe will yield about 3 cups.
• 6 firm plum tomatoes
• 1 jalapeño or other small hot pepper
• 1/2 red or yellow minced pepper
• 2 tablespoons minced red onion
• 2 teaspoons peeled, blended lime
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh coriander
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
Remove the core from the tomatoes and coarsely chop them. Seed and mince the hot pepper. Combine with other ingredients in a bowl and blend well. Cover and let stand at room temperature for about an hour. Enjoy with favorite tortilla chips or add to any Mexican dish. Although, this salsa has been known to be eaten with nothing! Can be stored in the refrigerator for three to four days. Enjoy!
Chris Pickens, a vegan since 2016, is a certified holistic nutrition coach, a health and wellness coach, a holistic health practitioner, and a holistic health coach. To learn more about Pickens, go to https://bit.ly/3FqhEId Email her at momof4chris@gmail.com, with “The Joy of Medina Attn: Chris” in the subject line.
HOME AND GARDEN: DIG IT!
Creating a Monochromatic Garden
by Michelle Riley
Utilizing the same color, represented in different tones and blooms, is considered a monochromatic garden.
Monochromatic gardens carry a sense of depth and a refreshing air of simplicity.
Blooms opening with vibrant color and fading slowly with the soft cadence of the seasons. Each season bearing a different expression of the same color. Each blossom with its own story in expressing the monochromatic tones.
Understanding the seasonal bloom cycle is a great place to start when planning such a garden.
Beginning with early spring planning and creating a parade of blossoms that will carry the garden through to its winter rest.
A purple garden, for example, may include random varieties of purple Lenten rose (hellebore) that will bloom from early winter to late winter, their bloom depends greatly on lack of snowfall and freezing weather.
The easiest early blossom would include the crocus, hyacinth, tulips, and allium. All bulbs that are normally planted in the fall to prepare for an early spring or early summer bloom.
Each of these bulbs have a purple variety and will bloom in succession (as listed) starting late winter or early spring until late spring and early summer.
More purple early spring blossoms include grape hyacinth, vinca, perennial primrose, lungwort, violets, and creeping phlox.
Purple Syringa (lilacs) make a great late spring addition along with azalea, rhododendron, and Japanese iris.
Purple salvia varieties that will each bloom at different moments from late spring to late summer are great midseason fillers.
Adding mid- to late-summer blooming Russian sage (Perovskia) and butterfly bush (buddleia) accompanied by purple hydrangea, tall garden phlox, verbena, German iris, acanthus, monkshood, summer asters, indigo, blazing star (Liatris), campanula, hollyhock, veronica, lavender, spiderwort, and Coralbells (Heuchera) to name a few.
Rolling into late summer and fall with mums, fall-blooming asters, purple sedum, hens and chicks, sand cherry (Prunus Cistena), Ligularia and miniature chocolate Joe Pye weed (Eupatorium).
Choose the right plants according to bloom and environmental needs to create a monochromatic garden that blooms from early spring to early winter, giving a couple of months to rest before the next big bloom.
Michelle Riley is a local horticulturist, landscape designer, and consultant. She is the founder of the gardening subscription service, the Plant Shorts Posse; https:// michellerileyhorticulturist.com ; and https://neohiogarden. com . She also is the president of All About You Signature Landscape Design, Inc. Learn more about Riley at https://bit.ly/3BavKLk Riley can be contacted at Info@ MichelleRileyHorticulturist.com or by calling 234-678-8266
photo by Chris Pickens
Even Aquariums Benefit From Cycling
by Paris Deeter
Cycling an aquarium is an important aspect of the hobby that many people overlook.
However, it is extremely important so that the animals do not suffer from health issues due to the ammonia and nitrites that build up. Typically, it is a six-to-eight-week process.
To cycle an aquarium, you need a dechlorinator, ammonium chloride (which can be purchased either for aquarium use or pure ammonia from the grocery store), and a liquid testing kit, not a test strip kit.
It is important to note that test strips do not work and give inaccurate results.
Remove all pets from the aquarium.
Dose the ammonia up to two parts per million once daily and check the water parameters. If using aquarium specific ammonia, there should be a specific dosing given on the bottle. If using ammonia purchased from the grocery store, you will need to check the parameters to see what the ammonia is at after dosing.
Then, check the water parameters daily using the liquid test kit.
It should start reading less ammonia over time and the nitrites will start to go up. As it does this, you want to dose back up to one part per million each time, so the nitrites do not get too high and stall the cycle.
Eventually, it should start reading zero parts per million ammonia 24 hours after dosing.
Continue dosing up to one part per million until the nitrites start dropping.
When the nitrites start reading zero after 24 hours, you can increase the ammonia up to two parts per million.
Eventually, the ammonia and nitrites will start both reading zero parts per million 24 hours after dosing the ammonia. At this point, you are almost ready to add your aquatic friend to the tank!
Do 50 percent water changes once daily until the nitrates are at 10 parts per million.
Continue dosing the ammonia up to one part per million while making the water changes, so the bacteria have enough food to survive. At this point, you have completed cycling your aquarium!
If you have any questions or need additional guidance, please send an email to the address below.
Paris Deeter lives in Brunswick and has raised a wide variety of critters from spiders to rats. She welcomes questions and column suggestions, which can be sent to Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com with “Critter Crawl” in the subject line. Deeter also can supply information on where to obtain pets mentioned in her column.
HEALTH: OF MIND AND BODY
Rethinking Detoxes
by Amanda Liptak
You do not need to be on the internet for long before coming across an ad or an influencer who claims they have miraculously transformed their health by doing a cleanse and undoubtedly that you can, too, if you invest in their detox products.
But do you actually need a detox to improve your health?
After 22 years in the nutrition industry, I can wholeheartedly tell you that juice cleanses, detoxes and other extreme approaches are not necessary to be healthy.
As a matter of fact, most detox products will cause more harm than good.
If you want to focus on detoxing, the following ways will help your body decrease inflammation and make it easier for your kidneys and liver to naturally filter out toxins.
1. Hydrate. Advice you have heard before, but for good reason. Hydration supports kidney function and helps flush toxins from the body. Aim for half to a third of your actual body weight in fluid ounces as your daily goal. Want to spice it up? Try adding coconut water to your daily regimen, rich in minerals like magnesium and potassium to help balance fluids.
2. Eat anti-inflammatory. Many anti-inflammatory foods contain compounds that support liver function, the body’s primary detoxification organ. For example, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale contain sulfur compounds that enhance liver detoxification pathways. Dandelion root, which can be added to a salad when in season or enjoyed in the form of tea or coffee alternative, also greatly supports the liver. Additionally, foods rich in antioxidants like berries, green tea, and dark chocolate help protect liver cells from damage caused by toxins and free radicals.
3. Limit toxic exposure. This could be as simple as opting for fragrance-free laundry detergent or dish soap. Skip the dyes in foods, too, and look for brands that use foods as colorants in their products such as beets or turmeric, which is commonly used to give color to organic candies.
4. Sweat it out. A body that moves is a body that releases toxins. Engaging in regular activity helps promote circulation and lymphatic drainage.
5. Get sleep. Adults need seven to nine hours of quality uninterrupted sleep a night. Sleep time is when the body detoxes every organ. If you regularly wake up between the hours of 2 and 3 a.m., that is a good sign that you need to give more attention to supporting the liver’s detoxification process. There are a lot of ways to detox your life. Skip the extreme advice and start with the list above.
HEALTH: BACK TO OUR ROOTS
Little Known Risk of Elderberry Syrup
by Stephanie Polinski
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The information in this column being presented for educational purposes only and any claims of results are based solely on the author’s own personal experience. Results may vary and there is no guarantee that results will be the same for others or that the recipe or its individual ingredients are safe for use. The author is not a doctor and does not have any kind of medical training. Please do your own research on each listed ingredient as well as the combination thereof to ensure you can safely use it. Some ingredients in herbal remedies can interact with other medications or while nursing or pregnant. It is up to each individual to do their own research and/or to consult with medical personnel. The author, the magazine, nor its corporation take any responsibility for the misuse or any and all consequences to your health or that of others that may result from the use of this recipe or by following the advice presented.
Originally, I never planned on talking about elderberry syrup as it can be seen all over social media. However, I am shocked with how many people are taking this syrup who have autoimmune diseases or on medications that should not be taken with elderberry and have no idea.
Do not get me wrong, I absolutely love elderberry syrup and it is an amazing remedy, but not if you are pregnant, nursing, on certain medications, or have autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Lupus, and other conditions.
Elderberry syrup can stimulate the immune system and should be used with caution.
I cannot tell you how many people have come to me for help because they are experiencing increased autoimmune issues. Questioning reveals they have been taking elderberry syrup with no idea that it was causing their flare ups.
Symptoms subsided after they stopped taking elderberry syrup.
If you have autoimmune issues, be prepared that elderberry syrup may make symptoms worse. There are alternatives that can be used in place of elderberry syrup. If you still decide to take the syrup, do not do so for more than five days. As always, do your own research, and discuss it with your doctor.
There are a lot of benefits to taking elderberry syrup. It is high in nutrients and antioxidants. It may improve cold and flu symptoms, boosts the immune system, promotes heart health, and more.
This is my base recipe for elderberry syrup.
• 1 cup fresh or frozen elderberries, de-stemmed (or 1/3 cup dried )
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 5 whole cloves
• 2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
Amanda Liptak is a registered dietitian nutritionist with more than 20 years of experience. She is the owner of Nutrient Rich Life Nutrition Coaching, a functional nutrition coaching company that provides comprehensive weight loss support for men and women. Visit www.nutrientrichlife.org and learn more about Liptak at http://tinyurl.com/32zfajue
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup raw honey
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (if canning)
Bring elderberries, water and spices to a boil. Turn down heat to low, stir and mash it up a little, put lid on pot and let simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring and mashing slightly every 5 minutes or so. Turn off heat after 15 minutes of simmering and let brew for another 20 minutes. Stir and mash again and then strain out the elderberries using a fine mesh strainer saving the elderberry tea. Now, add the 1 cup of raw honey and stir until it is dissolved. Place in the refrigerator for up to a few months or water bath can it for 10 minutes to make shelf stable. Note that canning it will remove some of the medicinal properties. Each pint equals
around 92 1 teaspoon servings. Take 1 teaspoon every day to strengthen the immune system. Take 1 teaspoon every 30 minutes to 2 hours at the first sign of virus.
While Stephanie Polinski is not a doctor, she is passionate about sharing herbal remedies. She also is the owner and baker of Crazy 8 Custom Cakes, LLC, which can be found at https://tinyurl.com/4ssafnut . She has had to temporarily close her cake decorating business. Learn more about her at https://tinyurl.com/2ydvdtau
COMMUNITY: MUNCHING WITH JOY
Munching With Joy
by Amy Barnes
Congratulations to these restaurants!
Each month the focus will be on a different area of Medina County’s sit-down eating facilities. Only those restaurants that pass the Medina County Health Department’s inspection with a perfect score of 0 critical and 0 non-critical issues will be included.
Food trucks and those with no inspections will not be included. Keep in mind that an inspection is only a snapshot in time, so a restaurant not listed this month may make the list the next time. Inspections are based only on what the inspector observes at the time of inspection. Information for this list is taken from public records.
Time to chow!
COMMUNITY: OUT OF THE BOX
Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor,
Your editorial in the recent Joy magazine (Page 2, https:// tinyurl.com/zaz9x842 ) was very much appreciated because it showed that you are brave and determined to fight against deplorable acts of racism.
It is an eye-opener to those of us who believe that we are decades past racism!
I shared your letter at our recent Women’s Knowledge Share Circle at my place of business, Places In Time Farm & Getaway. Everyone made notes on what restaurant they will no longer frequent or support.
Karen Burke
Places in Time Flower Farm Seville
OUT OF THE BOX LETTER GUIDELINES
1. No politics, no religion.
2. Nothing that is spiteful or just plain mean.
3. Letters will run as submitted, writer is responsible for spell checking, editing and grammar.
4. Letters may be edited for length. Suggested maximum length is 150 to 200 words. Chose them wisely. Keep in mind this is a family magazine and watch those word choices.
5. There is no guarantee of publication, but we will do our best to get all in that follow the guidelines.
6. Letter writers will be verified by phone, usually between 6 and 9 in the evening except for Sundays. If we cannot verify, the letter will not run.
7. All letters must include the name of the author and city of residence (and state, if it is outside of Ohio), all of which will be published. You do not have to live in Medina County to submit a letter.
8. Include a phone number we can call for verification. Letters can be emailed to: Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com with “Letters to the Editor” in the subject line. Or mailed to:
Letters to the Editor Joy of Medina County Magazine 1114 N. Court, #144 Medina, Ohio 44256
“I have no idea what I’m going to do tomorrow,” Lawrence said. “How exciting!” said Teddy Roosevelt. -- from the movie
“Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb.”
ENTERTAINMENT: OFF THE SHELF
From Strangers to Spark
by Mary Olson
Book: “You are Here”
Author: David Nicholls
Rating (out of 5 possible):
“You Are Here” is the latest novel by British author David Nicholls.
Nicholls’ beloved novel “One Day” is now a featured series on Netflix.
“You Are Here” is a charming and thoughtful novel set on a nearly 200-mile walk from the west to the east coast of England. The easy pace of the story reflects a walk out in nature.
Marnie is a copy editor who works alone in her London flat. Recently divorced from an unkind, selfish man and feeling disconnected, she reluctantly agrees to her friend Cleo’s idea of a cross-country walk in a small group.
The group includes a man named Michael who is a geography teacher still pining for his ex-wife, with whom he desperately wanted children but could not conceive. Michael is a master of geographical knowledge which he awkwardly imparts to his walking mates.
The walk on which Marnie and Michael embark is not for the casual hiker. Through pelting rain, the perambulators climb hills and cross streams, passing through meadows, moors and villages where they spend the night.
The unlikely pair begin to form a friendship when Cleo and the man she intended to pair up with Marnie both depart the group and head back home. Michael and Marnie decide to continue and begin sharing details of their lives, relationships and families.
In a few days’ time, a tiny spark ignites between the two. But will either have the courage to be vulnerable again?
This lovely novel is not a fast-paced thriller nor is it a romantic comedy. It is a portrait of two people at a moment in time, companions in a basic human activity through which they find friendship first and later, the promise of love.
David Nicholls perfectly captures the hesitancy that solitary people feel when they reach out to make a new connection.
Both Marnie and Michael have been deeply wounded by their partners, and the very act of talking and walking together takes courage.
There is wit, humor, erudite geographical tidbits, heartbreaking honesty, and heartwarming second chances in this earnest story.
It is easy to recommend this book to any reader who enjoys character novels, aptly described settings and entertaining dialogue.
Mary Olson is the readers’ advisory librarian at the Medina County District Library. To learn more about her, go to https:// bit.ly/3gZ1mg1
FAMILY COMMUNICATION LOSS SEEKING ADULTS MEMORIES
FAMILY COMMUNICATION LOSS SEEKING ADULTS MEMORIES
CHILDREN DINNER SILENCE QUESTIONS HEARTBREAK BOUNDARIES
Joyful Word Search Painting With Purpose
MIRTH AND JOY
by Jerry King
“Apparently, the bathrooms in this home aren’t high tech.”
DINNER SILENCE QUESTIONS HEARTBREAK BOUNDARIES
Answer Key for Last Month’s Search GOING TO THE DOGS
Abandoned Cats in Medina County through
Neuter/Spay,
The third annual celebration of Juneteenth was held in Uptown Park on Medina Public Square on Saturday, June 15, 2024. photos by Amy Barnes
Katherine Gerhardt was the drummer accompanying Sogbety Diomande’s dances.
Oh, Snap!
Pastor Arthur Ruffin
Sr. of Medina’ s Second Baptist Church gets into the act and dances with West African dancer Sogbety Diomande. Learn more about Diomande (including his stint as a lead djembe drummer for Jimmy Buffet and his time as part of Disney World) at https://sogbety.com/
Minister Senesa Peterson of Medina enjoyed dancing with Sogbety Diomande. “Whew, my heart is beating so fast!” she said afterward.
From left, Ethan Ruiz, Molly Galdamez and Shirly Ragin, all from Medina, were enjoying the vendors and performances.
Jionni Cox, age 5; Javahni Cox, age 6; and Dakotuh Poole, age 14
From left, Kythryn Carr Harris and her husband, Lawrence Harris, with his daughter Jentry Harris (in front) were celebrating finally finding out the address of where they will be building a home in Coddingville. They currently reside in Ohio City.
Christopher Wallace of Copley brought 1-year-old Bernice to enjoy Juneteenth.
From left, Cindy Maxwell, Cam Holley and Erika Eaton
From left, Mike Sency of Medina, Olivia Huth of Medina, Gabby Doolittle of Valley City, and happy dog Remy
Let's do it! July 2024 Event Calendar
Submitting Calendar Events
Listings in calendar must be events hosted by or benefiting a Medina County nonprofit organization or hosted/ sponsored by a magazine advertiser. Send submissions to Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com and put CALENDAR in the subject line. Information is not accepted by phone. The calendar is also available online at JoyOfMedinaCounty. com on the Community Calendar tab at the top of the page or on the drop-down menu on mobile devices.
Monday, July 1
International Reggae Day https://tinyurl.com/muttkjd5
Memory Café, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Buckeye Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Socialization for folks with memory loss and their care partners. Information at https://tinyurl.com/bdd97kty
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Cleveland Clinic Family Health Center Brunswick, 3574 Center Road, Brunswick. http://tinyurl. com/3u5y5pkt
Beginners Sign Language, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Third Floor Conference Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Introduction into American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Register at https://tinyurl.com/27jzxhs3
Anglophiles United, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Games, trivia and conversation on British culture. Information at https://tinyurl.com/43efhwk5
Intermediate Sign Language, 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Third Floor Conference Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Intermediate lesson on American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Register at https://tinyurl.com/8tsjcscs
Tuesday, July 2
Freedom From Fear of Speaking Day https://tinyurl.com/yth45npc Storytime in the Garden, 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., Medina Community Garden, 302 E. Liberty Street, Medina. Bring the family for nature themed stories, songs and rhymes in the garden. Information at https://tinyurl.com/hxrn9c8x Knit and Crochet Drop-In, 10 a.m. to Noon, Brunswick Hickory Room, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Come share and learn tips
and tricks for knitting and crocheting. Group donates to Warm Up Medina County initiative. Information at https://tinyurl.com/26v3dbnb
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saint Ambrose Church, 929 Pearl Road, Brunswick. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Family Pool Party, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Medina Rec Center Fields and Pool. Enjoy a picnic followed by family fun in the pool. Register at https:// tinyurl.com/mvw5rt5e
Invasive Species Management, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Learn how to properly combat invasive species. Information at https://tinyurl.com/2dsbdnd6
Wednesday, July 3
National Compliment Your Mirror Day https://tinyurl.com/4svtnpbs
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Root Candles, 640 W Liberty Street, Medina. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Drop In Crafts, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Stop in for some crafting. Information at https://tinyurl.com/mue38m78
Teen Dungeons and Dragons Campaign, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Medina Community Room A and B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Register at https://tinyurl.com/3t5r4z74
Trinity Rose Festival, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Common Ground Warehouse, 220 North State Road, Medina. Experience diverse foods, live music, and community. Information at https://tinyurl.com/muu7ycj
Independence Day Fireworks and Food Trucks, 6 p.m., Wadsworth Main Street. Rain Date, July 5th. Information at https://tinyurl.com/mvhwazzp
Thursday, July 4
See our special box for Fourth of July celebrations!
Friday, July 5
Comic Sans Day https://tinyurl.com/55afrmfh
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saint Mark Church, 1330 N Carpenter Street, Brunswick. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Reading Buddies, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Bring your little ones in for reading practice. Information at https://tinyurl.com/tjy6x6hj
Slo Rolls with Bike Medina County, 6:15 p.m. to 8 p.m., Chippewa Yacht Club, (Entrance is just past the Oaks Restaurant on Longacre Lane) Chippewa Lake. Join for a guided eight-to-ten-mile ride. Information at https:// tinyurl.com/ycyt6z9z
Saturday, July 6
Hop A Park Day
https://tinyurl.com/4yy3tz2r
Camp Half Blood, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Participate in games, trivia, and crafts Half Blood style. Register at https:// tinyurl.com/248nvtad
Tabletop RPG One Shot: Starfinder, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Medina 1907 Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Play tabletop rpg, solve mysteries. Register at https://tinyurl.com/cpp579se
Discovering Your Ancestor's Town of Origin, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Medina Community Room A, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Register at https://tinyurl.com/37t2aawr
A Healthy Dose of Nature: Hiking Series, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Lake Medina, 3733 Granger Road, Medina. Discover local wildflowers at their best and most beautiful. Information at https://tinyurl.com/3zyv5e6p
Jazz Under the Stars, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Uptown Park, Medina Public Square. Featuring Lou Armagno and Dianne Palmer, “Sinatra Selects.”
Sunday, July 7
International Peace and Love Day https://tinyurl.com/3nn8wjw8 Live at the Library: Tina Bergmann and Bryan Thomas, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Meeting Room A, Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Information at https://tinyurl.com/2e6fbbu7
Monday, July 8
Be a Kid Again Day https://tinyurl.com/yfvyaevm
Intergenerational Morning Book Discussion, 11 a.m. to noon, Sycamore Room North, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Discuss “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton. Teens welcome. Information at https://tinyurl. com/2u8wr5xt
American Red Cross Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m., Brunswick United Methodist Church, 1395 Pearl Road, Brunswick. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Monday Movie Matinee, 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Meeting Room A, Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Timothée Chalamet stars in the movie “Wonka”. Information at https://tinyurl.com/ mryda99u
Beginners Sign Language, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Introduction into American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ymnzxxkt
Chair Yoga, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Learn the benefits of yoga while safely seated. Register at https://tinyurl.com/yc7zhu7z
Native Shade Plants, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Buckeye Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Join Master Gardener Travis to learn about garden shade. Information at https://tinyurl.com/zxrmdzf4
Intermediate Sign Language, 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Intermediate lesson on American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Register at https://tinyurl.com/4arc7phu
Monday Night Intrigue: “Lay Them to Rest” by Lauren Norton, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Register at https://tinyurl.com/yuep7kxc
Tuesday, July 9
Call of the Horizon Day https://tinyurl.com/2h7hjuta
Senior Strides, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Granger Wetlands Wildlife Sanctuary, 4023 Beachler Road, Medina. Embark on a monthly senior social walk in nature. Information at https://tinyurl.com/4jaw3p5d
Volunteens: Mill Stream Clean Up, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Buckeye Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Register at https://tinyurl. com/mptss5ds
Popcorn and Pages, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Lodi Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Lodi. Register at https://tinyurl.com/34nkfz97
Teen Book Discussion, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Medina 1907 Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Information at https://tinyurl. com/ymsy6a23
Book Discussion, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville.
Join for a discussion on “The Last Ride of the Pony Express” by Will Grant. Information at https://tinyurl.com/yae7pxmr
Explorastory: A Squash and a Squeeze, 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Join for books, songs, and rhymes as well as crafts. Register at https://tinyurl. com/3zvsbtsp
Local Author: Mark Dawidziak, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Learn about Frank Darabont's film adaptation of Stephen King's novella. Information at https:// tinyurl.com/4wzu6cky
Wednesday, July 10
National Kitten Day https://tinyurl.com/5cnbdvwd
Natural Discoveries, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Buckeye Woods Park Shelter, 6335 Wedgewood Road, Medina. Join a nice easy walk in nature. Information at https://tinyurl.com/33tvmr73
Toddler Summer Splash Party, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Fred Greenwood Park
Fourth of July Celebrations
Wednesday, July 3
BRUNSWICK
Brunswick Fireworks Show and Concert, concert starts 7 p.m., fireworks start at dusk. to 10 p.m., Brunswick High School, 3581 Center Road, Brunswick. Concert by Funkology at 7 p.m. Rain date: July 5
MEDINA
Medina Recreation Center Festival, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., 777 E. Union Street, Medina. Bands, games, food trucks, foam pit, games, contests.
Cornerstone Chapel Fireworks Fest, 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Cornerstone Chapel, 3939 Granger Road, Medina. Food trucks, inflatables. Free. Then watching Medina fireworks show from hill and parking lot. Bring own chair or blanket.
Medina Fireworks Show, at dark, Medina High School, 777 E. Union Street, Medina.
WADSWORTH
Independence Day Fireworks and Concert, 6 p.m. to dark, 102 Main Street, Wadsworth. Concert begins at 7 p.m. Rain date: July 6.
Thursday, July 4
CHIPPEWA LAKE
Chippewa Lake Lions Club Foundation Fourth of July Parade, 1 p.m., parade starts at Gloria Glens Town Hall, 7966 Lake Road, Chippewa Lake, and ends at Lions Park. Shuttles available, prizes awarded. For more information, go to https://tinyurl.com/yh7h4kf6
Chippewa Lake Water Ski Team, 5 p.m., Chippewa Lake. Free Fourth of July show.
HINCKLEY
4th of July Parade, 9 a.m., Hinckley Police Department, 1410 Ridge Road, Hinckley,. https://www.facebook.com/events/441907242126071
MEDINA
Medina Fourth of July Parade, 4 p.m., starts at Medina High School, 777 E. Union Street, Medina. Parade travels to East Liberty, and around the square.
Medina Community Band Concert, 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Uptown Park, Medina Public Square. Free, but donations gratefully accepted at the concert for sheet music and other band expenses.
VALLEY CITY
Valley City Parade, Car Show, Concert, and Fireworks, noon to 11 p.m., Mill Stream Park, 1200 Maple Street, Valley City. Tribute to LaVerne Tolsma prior to parade start. Parade starts at 11 a.m., follows State Route 303 to West River to School Street to Maple Street to Mill Stream Park. Concessions available.
Saturday, July 6
SPENCER
Spencer Independence Day Celebration, 12:30 p.m. with fireworks at dark, Firestone Park. Park Drive, Spencer. Parade, festival at 1 p.m.; bounce houses, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.; animal show, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m..; clown, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.; touch a truck, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.; food trucks; and games. For more information and updates, go to http://tinyurl.com/2p994rf8
photo by Arthur Chauvineau
Joy of Medina County Magazine | July 2024 on “Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman. Register at https://tinyurl. com/4m85eyhn
and Splash Pad, 350 West Sturbridge Drive, Medina. Ages 0 to 3, children with or without disabilities. Part of the activities with the Play, Learn, and Grow group. More information and updates for bad weather at https://www. mcbdd.org/
American Red Cross Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m., Brunswick United Methodist Church, 1395 Pearl Road, Brunswick. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Learn to Draw: Charlie Harper Style, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Park volunteer Walt Wozniak shows how to draw Charlie Harper birds. Register at https://tinyurl. com/3r59xp7h
Bingo, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Information at https://tinyurl.com/4tnadmx2
Lost Ohio Treasures, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Author Mark Strecker will talk about his book Ohio's lost treasures. Register at https://tinyurl.com/4ax2h4xp Pajama Story Time, 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Put on pajamas and listen to a story. More information at https://tinyurl.com/27d47dxj Tech Class: What is the Cloud and How to Save to It, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina Computer Lab, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Register at https://tinyurl.com/3exu9mu6 Novel Ideas: “Hello Stranger”, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Read and discuss “Hello Stranger” by Katherine Center. Register at https://tinyurl.com/35eay6wj
Thursday, July 11
All American Pet Photo Day https://tinyurl.com/2ax6ea7s Camp Wired, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Medina Computer Lad, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Learn new computer skills with Sherri Meinke. Information at https://tinyurl.com/y97mybeh Pop-Up Library, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Valley View Park, 618 West Street Wadsworth. Explore fairytale fun through read out loud stories and enrichment activities. Information at https://tinyurl.com/nhzc6mbu
Book Discussion Group, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Third Floor Conference Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Join the discussion
A list of art shows in Medina County
To have a show listed, send the information to joy@ blakehousepublishing.com at least two months in advance. There is no such thing as too early, but there is too late.
Northeast OAEA K-12 Youth Art Exhibit through July 20
Student artwork on display
B. Smith Gallery
Third Floor, Medina Library 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina
2024 Juried Photography Show
July 1 through July 30
Winners announced during Arts Week, July 14-21) The Common Ground 220 N. State Road, Medina
Art for the Ages
July 2 through July 29
Reception: July 20, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Brunswick Library 3649 Center Road, Brunswick
ICONS
July 29 through August 24
Brad Rice portraits of influential people throughout history.
B. Smith Gallery
Third Floor, Medina Library 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina
Tween Thursday: Secret Art of the Ninja, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Become a ninja as you learn about them in history. Information at https:// tinyurl.com/4rd8yt7w
Information Technology Security Breaches, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Lodi Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Lodi. Learn how to stay safe online. Information at https://tinyurl.com/4m85eyhn
Common Threads: Textile, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Bring your project and supplies for a social stitching experience. Information at https://tinyurl.com/ y45kd658
Writing Workshop, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Local author Seth Borgen helps with creative writing process in a trio of workshops. Bring your material and jump into discussions. Register at https://tinyurl.com/bdju38bh
Friday, July 12
Night of Nights https://tinyurl.com/3j8995wp
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Medina Community Recreation Center, 855 Weymouth Road, Medina. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Reading Buddies, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Bring your little ones in for reading practice. Information at https://tinyurl.com/953knf9d
Saturday, July 13
National Rock Day https://tinyurl.com/mvx5kr45
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saint Mark Church, 1330 N Carpenter Street, Brunswick. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Craft Supply Swap, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Medina Community Room A and B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Bring your unopened or gently used craft supplies to exchange. Information at https://tinyurl. com/9s5tw6p4
Storytime on the Lawn, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Register at https:// tinyurl.com/bdh7dt8v
Tales and Tails, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Therapy dogs visit to help children with reading out loud. Information at https://tinyurl.com/bdef8veu Damsels and Dragons, Noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Learn the life cycle of dragonflies. Information at https://tinyurl.com/2rv85m5r
Broad Street Independent Writers, 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Meeting Room
B, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Connect with a network and sounding board of fellow people of the pen. Information at https://tinyurl.com/78pdppbr
Starry, Starry Nights at Letha House, 9 p.m. to 11 p.m., Letha House Lodge (West), 5800 Richman Road, Chatham Township. Enjoy observing deepspace objects through a telescope and discussing the night sky. Information at https://tinyurl.com/y4uftexh
Sunday, July 14
Shark Awareness Day https://tinyurl.com/mreapw3k
Damsels and Dragons, Noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Learn the life cycle of dragonflies. Information at https://tinyurl.com/2rv85m5r
Monday, July 15
Celebration of the Horse Day https://tinyurl.com/m9camvnb Nocturnal Animals Week, All day, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Discover who is awake while you are asleep. Information at https:// tinyurl.com/mvhbczw3
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5Ways to Create Celebrations for All!
1. Ask Questions
Birthdays, graduations, holidays and other special occasions are celebrations people look forward to attending. As you plan your next big celebration, don’t forget to think about making it accessible for people with disabilities so they also feel welcome and included.
With your invitation, ask guests if there are any things you can do that will improve their visit, including dietary restrictions. This communication beforehand, gives people the chance to speak up about what they need to feel welcome.
2. Adjust Your Space
Make sure your party place is as physically accessible as possible. This could mean renting a ramp for front door steps, or rearranging furniture so people can navigate your space safely. Make sure that everyone is able to reach table tops that hold food, activities, or gifts.
3. Be Mindful of Sensory Input
Celebrations often come with decorations, music, foods, and scents. Experiencing too much of these can be overwhelming for some people with sensory concerns. Flashing lights can cause visual overload, distraction, headaches, and even trigger seizures.
4. Create a Sensory Space
Consider creating a sensory space in a room that is not being used for the celebration. Sensory spaces are where guests can go to take a break from the typical hustle and bustle of a gathering. A child that needs a nap, a person with sensory
This Month’s Highlights...
The Medina County Board of DD is pleased to announce the name of this year’s recipient of the MCBDD Donor Scholarship.
concerns, or a new parent with their baby can all benefit from this quiet and relaxing space. Make the space comfortable by using low lighting and provide items like pillows, blankets, fidget toys, or books and magazines.
5. Provide a Remote Option
Whether it is due to a disability, sickness, or not being able to travel, it’s
- Safety Town PLUS+
The scholarship was founded to support young persons who are pursuing a career which serves people with developmental differences. The 2024 MCBDD Donor Scholarship recipient is Connor Pugh. Connor graduated from Brunswick High School and the Medina County Career Center this spring, In the fall, Connor will be attending Baldwin Wallace University, where he plans to major in Special Education and hopes to become an Intervention Specialist for grades K-5 and to work with students with mild to moderate needs. While attending college, Connor also hopes to be able to continue working as a Direct Support Professional.
common for people to feel left out if they cannot attend a celebration in person. Having a remote video option gives guests the chance to connect with those at the gathering. You can even mail or drop off a package which includes food, decorations, or supplies for activities beforehand so they can participate virtually in the festivities.
The Medina County Board of DD was excited to host its Safety Town Plus program from June 17-21. The program offered all the regular Safety Town fun “PLUS” the extra help some children with developmental disabilities may need.
The MCBDD worked with Sgt. Beverly Fraser of the Medina County Sheriff’s Department, volunteers from the Granger Fire Department, and the Medina City Schools Transportation Department, along with many other volunteers, to present this unique program.
This year marked the eleventh year the MCBDD has offered this program which has been provided to about 250 students with disabilities in Medina County. The specially designed program is one of only a handful of Safety Towns offered across the nation which cater to children with disabilities.
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Joy of Medina County Magazine | July 2024
Young Inventors, All day from July 15 to July 31, Children’s Department, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Pick up an invention kit to take home. Information at https://tinyurl.com/bdfzmatr
The Internet: An Introduction, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Learn the basics of internet access. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mrx6jrcm
Memory Café, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Buckeye Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Socialization for folks with memory loss and their care partners. Information at https://tinyurl.com/5n74y977
Reading Buddies, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Bring your little ones in for reading practice. Information at https://tinyurl.com/yupbanzv
Beginners Sign Language, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Introduction into American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mha4bje8
DIY Scratch Art, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Lodi Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Lodi. Create scratch art with crayons and paint. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ybwv2b73
Intermediate Sign Language, 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Intermediate lesson on American Sign Language and the Deaf culture with Jean Cormany. Register at https://tinyurl.com/5n6dw8af
Tuesday, July 16
World Snake Day https://tinyurl.com/29t4u7hz
Knit and Crochet Drop-In, 10 a.m. to Noon, Brunswick Hickory Room, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Come share and learn tips and tricks for knitting and crocheting. Group donates to Warm Up Medina County initiative. Information at https://tinyurl.com/57m5jmb4
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., The Chapel Wadsworth Campus, 1391 State Road, Wadsworth. http://tinyurl. com/3u5y5pkt
Discovery Drop-In: Pollinators, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Green Leaf Park, 1674 S. Medina Line Road, Sharon Center. Drop by to discover what pollinators live within Green Leaf Park. Information at https://tinyurl.com/2vr87m2u Tech Tuesday: Drop-In Device Help, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Drop in and conquer your digital dilemmas. Information at https://tinyurl.com/3rjnm8n6 Book Discussion with Wanda M. Morris, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Register at https://tinyurl.com/bddhre8f
Wednesday, July 17
A list of runs and walks that benefit area non-profit organizations.
To have your run listed, send the information to joy@ blakehousepublishing.com at least two months in advance. There is no such thing as too early, but there is too late.
Thursday, July 4
Twin Sizzler 27-mile Citizen and Expert Bike Race, 5K Run and 27Mile Bike Race, 10K Run, 5K Run, 1-Mile Fun Run, start times from 7:45 a.m. to 9 a.m., Medina Public Square, 89 Public Square, Medina. For fees, registration and more information, go to https://tinyurl.com/ bdfhjthc
Friday, Aug. 9
Collin Cares Glow With the Flow Twilight Run 5k and 1-Mile Run, 8:15 p.m. to 11 p.m., Root Middle School, 333 W. Sturbridge, Medina. Fees increase after July 21, 2024. For fees, registration and more information, go to https://tinyurl.com/58zrzzzt
Sunday, Aug. 11
The T-strong Fall Dash, 9 a.m., 5k and 1-mile fun run, Buckeye Woods Park, 6335 Wedgewood Road, Medina. For fees, registration and more information, go to https://tinyurl.com/9phhxsne
Take Your Poet to Work Day https://tinyurl.com/k4skwnnz
Teen Dungeons and Dragons Campaign, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Medina Community Room A and B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Register at https://tinyurl.com/4d3ew8j6
Artist Trading Card 101, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina Community B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Make tiny works of art that you trade with other artists. Register at https://tinyurl.com/7jz6pe3t
Pajama Story Time, 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Put on pajamas and listen to a story. More information at https://tinyurl.com/kduuvfcr
Purrs and Pages, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Storytime about cats with a feline friend. Information at https://tinyurl. com/2trn7uza
Understanding the American Hobo, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Register at https://tinyurl.com/3uanrhw8
Evening Book Discussion, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Brunswick Hickory Room, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Register at https:// tinyurl.com/mpja9umf
Thursday, July 18
World Listening Day https://tinyurl.com/k4skwnnz
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Medina County Health Dept, 4800 Ledgewood Drive, Medina. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Camp Wired, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Medina Computer Lad, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Learn new computer skills with Sherri Meinke. Information at https://tinyurl.com/bdenrtaz
Refrigerator Pickling, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Learn to pickle without the stress of canning. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mr23md2f
Alphabet Adventure: B is for Bumblebee, 6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Register at https://tinyurl.com/4vc2y4nr
Slo Rolls with Bike Medina County, 6:15 p.m. to 8 p.m., Offsite, meet at Spokes Cafe, 406 S. Broadway, Medina. Join for a guided eight-to-ten-mile ride. Information at https://tinyurl.com/3w7e93fy
Faithful Friends, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., St. Paul Lutheran Church, 6462 Ridge Rd. Sharon Center, Medina. Information at https://tinyurl.com/69vrw8t2
Breathing Techniques for Stress Relief, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Health and Wellness Expert Sujata Patel teaches about breathing in relation to stress. Information at https://tinyurl.com/4j8vb6r8
Friday, July 19
National Urban Beekeeping Day https://tinyurl.com/wnyxzsbe
Picasso Crafternoon, All day, Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Drop in and try some Picasso inspired crafts. Information at https://tinyurl.com/ mtkwzpak
Music and Movement, 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Come celebrate music with dance and instruments. Information at https://tinyurl.com/2p9k4hxh
Nature Fun, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Oenslager Nature Center, 6100 Ridge Road, Sharon Center. Join Jo Oklessen for this nature playshop. Register at https://tinyurl.com/4zt35rmt
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Medina United Methodist Church, 4747 Foote Road, Medina. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Reading Buddies, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Bring your little ones in for reading practice. Information at https://tinyurl.com/2hkhr9tx
Saturday, July 20
Space Exploration Day https://tinyurl.com/58ywb6b3
K-9 Kapers, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Killbuck Lakes, 7996 White Road, Burbank. Socialize your dog on these pet friendly hike. Information at https://tinyurl. com/2p9ebkwr
Picnic Paddle, 10 a.m. to noon, Chippewa Yacht Club, Chippewa Lake. Pack a picnic and your paddle craft for this two-part program. Register at https:// tinyurl.com/3u6nfuyf
Community Fest, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 220 N. State Road, Medina. Free kids crafts, food trucks, face painting and chalk art, snow cones, games, performances, music from local bands, more.
Bee Festival, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Opening of the hive 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; beekeeping show and tell 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Nate the Great Bee Balloon Art 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Honey tasting, beekeeping information, crafts, and more. Information at https://tinyurl.com/3rue2k7b
Damsels and Dragons, Noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Learn the life cycle of dragonflies. Information at https://tinyurl.com/bykeyhk7
Sunday, July 21
Take a Monkey to Lunch Day https://tinyurl.com/3ahma39e 50th Annual Art in the Park, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Uptown Park, Medina Public Square. Sponsored by Medina County Art League. Paintings, sculptures, photos, more.
Damsels and Dragons, Noon to 5 p.m., Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Boulevard, Brunswick. Learn the life cycle of dragonflies. Information at https://tinyurl.com/bykeyhk7
Music at The Lodge, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., The Lodge at Allardale, 141 Remsen Road, Medina. Come to the park for free, live musical entertainment. Information at https://tinyurl.com/mt397xea
Monday, July 22
National Hammock Day https://tinyurl.com/24t35cs2
American Red Cross Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m., Seville United Methodist Church, 74 W Main Street, Seville. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Sign Language Social, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina Community Room B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. All levels of sign language welcome. Light refreshments will be provided. Register at
Tuesday, July 23
National Gorgeous Grandma Day https://tinyurl.com/33aeduas Advocacy Meeting, 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., Virtual. Information at https:// tinyurl.com/33zm8a3j
Afternoon Movie, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Watch and discuss a movie. Information at https://tinyurl.com/34zjfm3c
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Northside Christian Church, 7615 Ridge Road, Wadsworth. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt Movie Discussion, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Watch the movie on your own then join for discussion. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ypcnfe6c
Wednesday, July 24
Amelia Earhart Day https://tinyurl.com/ytf48ddh
Jeff Nicholas, 11 a.m. to noon, Meeting Room A, Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Bring your elementary schoolers for draw along storytime. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ynvz5zs9 Jeff Nicholas, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Meeting Room A, Meeting Room B, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Bring your middle schoolers for draw along storytime. Register at https://tinyurl.com/52w4sbkw Pajama Story Time, 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Put on pajamas and listen to a story. More information at https://tinyurl.com/ycyzrb5w
Thursday, July 25
World Drowning Prevention Day https://tinyurl.com/872p8hck Tales for Tots, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. / 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., River Styx Park, 8200 River Styx Road, Wadsworth. Children learn about our pollination partners through a story and activities. Information at https://tinyurl.com/3tpar84s and https://tinyurl.com/ycy72x8e
A Healthy Dose of Nature: Hiking Series, 10 a.m. to noon, Hidden Hollow Camp, 8672 Richman Road, Lodi. Join a naturalist for a vigorous 3 to 5 mile hike. Information at https://tinyurl.com/4cypfzjz
Baby & Me Yoga, 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Sing and move with your baby, meet other caregivers. Register at https://tinyurl.com/5fuf2msf Camp Wired, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Medina Computer Lad, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Learn new computer skills with Sherri Meinke. Information at https://tinyurl.com/yv53uy7c
American Red Cross Blood Drive, noon to 6 p.m., Brunswick United Methodist Church, 1395 Pearl Road, Brunswick. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt Camp Day: Animal Adventures, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Buckeye Community Room, Buckeye Library, 6625 Wolff Road, Medina. Explore the lives of local wildlife with summer camp activities. Register at https://tinyurl.com/2mkyxwez Introduction to Dungeons and Dragons, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Meeting Room A, Wadsworth Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Learn the basics of DnD and make your very own character. Register at https://tinyurl.com/3ejjprnp
Tween Thursday: Minion Mania, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Make Minion inspired crafts and Minion inspired games. Information at https://tinyurl. com/2s3ewamr
Beginner Dungeons and Dragons Campaign, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Medina 1907 Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Register at https://tinyurl.com/3xpzynys
Friday, July 26
One Voice Day https://tinyurl.com/bdhssau6
Cody Clark Sensory Friendly Magic Show, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Register at https://tinyurl.com/48uumjet Pop-Up Library, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Valley View Park, 618 West Street Wadsworth. Explore fairytale fun through read out loud stories and enrichment activities. Information at https://tinyurl.com/4bfnzr9a
Cody Clark Sensory Friendly Magic Show, 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ykkxca4u
Reading Buddies, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Bring your little ones in for reading practice. Information at https://tinyurl.com/bdcmmywj
Saturday, July 27
Take Your Houseplant For a Walk Day https://tinyurl.com/yc5vmuty
Adapted Storytime, 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., Story Time Room, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Storytime in a supportive environment for children with autism and sensory integration challenges. Register at https://tinyurl.com/pwt9r92n
Broad Street Independent Writers, 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Meeting Room
B, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Connect with a network and sounding board of fellow people of the pen. Information at https://tinyurl.com/5cejaeu3
Sunday, July 28
World Nature Conservation Day https://tinyurl.com/34svx6s5
Cars and Coffee, 8 a.m. to noon, Medina’s Public Square. Nearly two hundred cars will be on display, so grab a coffee and enjoy. Information at https://tinyurl.com/mrx3ry94
A list of golf outings that benefit area non-profit organizations.
To have your golf outing listed, send the information to joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com at least two months in advance. There is no such thing as too early, but there is too late. Contact the hosting golf course for pricing, registration and sponsorships.
Address Guide:
Bunker Hill Golf Course 3060 Pearl Road, Medina 330-722-4174 or 216-469-9241
Fox Meadow Country Club 4260 Fox Meadow Drive, Medina 330-723-4653
Shale Creek Golf Course 5420 Wolff Road, Medina 330-723-8774
Friday, July 12
Gene Hickerson Memorial Golf Outing
8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Benefits: Cleveland Touchdown Club Charities Bunker Hill Golf Course
Monday, July 15
The Society: Give Back on the Green Golf Outing
6 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Benefits: The Society, provides services for the developmentally disabled Shale Creek Golf Club
2nd Annual Medina Youth Gridiron Golf Outing
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Benefits: Medina Youth Football and Cheer Fox Meadow Country Club
Monday, July 22
Jobs for Ohio Graduates (JOG) Golf Outing
8 a.m.
Benefits: JOG programs Bunker Hill Golf Course
17th Annual Trinity Rose Golf Outing
8:30 a.m. registration
Benefits: Trinity Rose, which helps children who have vision problems Shale Creek Golf Club
Saturday, July 27
Miracle League of Northeast Ohio 2024 Golf Outing
6:30 a.m. registration, breakfast, putting contest
Benefits: Miracle League gives those with developmental disabilities a chance to participate in sports
Bunker Hill Golf Course
Joy of Medina County Magazine |
Brunswick
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sundays, June 9 through October 5 (closed July 7)
Sunday at the Farm
Produce, consumables and crafts, free historic building tours
Heritage Farm, 4613 Laurel Road, Brunswick
Vendor registration information by emailing brunswickareahistory@gmail.com
Medina
9 a.m. to noon
Saturdays, May 4 through October 26
Produce, consumables, crafts, knife sharpening Cornerstone Chapel 3939 Granger Road, Medina
Enter lot from Weymouth Road
Vendor registration information at https://bit.ly/3MQSaFJ
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturdays, May 18 through October 5
Produce and consumables
Medina Public Square
Vendor registration information at https://tinyurl.com/4v75w9by
Seville
9 a.m. to noon
Saturdays, May 25 through September 28
Produce, consumables and crafts
Gazebo at Maria Stanhope Park, 73 W. Main Street, Seville
Vendor registration information at https://bit.ly/3muNr3S
Wadsworth
9 a.m. to noon
Saturdays, June 22 through September 28
Produce, consumables and crafts
Central Intermediate School, 151 Main Street, Wadsworth
Vendor registration information at https://bit.ly/409S0iR
Monday, July 29
Rain Day https://tinyurl.com/55p86b59
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cleveland Clinic Lodi Hospital, 225 Elyria Street, Lodi. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Wizarding Week: Hogsmeade, 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Medina Community Room A and B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Discover the world of Harry Potter all week with games, crafts, and more. Register at https://tinyurl.com/4xs65wnt
Improvisational Theater, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Sycamore Room North and South, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Register at https:// tinyurl.com/w5x27zyn
Wizarding Week: Hogsmeade, 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Medina Community Room A and B, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Discover the world of Harry Potter all week with games, crafts, and more. Register at https://tinyurl.com/2x9nrhce
Ohio's Electric Railways: The Past, Present, and Future, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Join Chuck Gibson’s presentation on electric railcars. Register at https://tinyurl.com/4kx9yh58
Tuesday, July 30
Paperback Book Day https://tinyurl.com/mr2nmf9t
World Friendship Day, All day, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Come in and make a bracelet for World Friendship Day. Information at https:// tinyurl.com/yc3eckr6
Knit and Crochet Drop-In, 10 a.m. to Noon, Brunswick Hickory Room, Brunswick Library, 3649 Center Road, Brunswick. Come share and learn tips and tricks for knitting and crocheting. Group donates to Warm Up Medina County initiative. Information at https://tinyurl.com/5n6chbrc
Wizarding Week: The Forbidden Forest, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Medina Community Garden, 302 East Liberty Street, Medina. Discover the world of Harry Potter all week with games, crafts, and more. Register at https://tinyurl. com/yuzyfek5
Wizarding Week: Ollivander's Wand Shop, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Medina 1907 Room, Medina Library, 210 South Broadway Street, Medina. Discover the world of Harry Potter all week with games, crafts, and more. Register at https://tinyurl.com/mr2df32j
Dungeons and Dragons, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Prepare a level Five 5E Character to embark on an adventure. Information at https://tinyurl.com/4j5hvvcp
Lughnasadh Workshop, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Highland Community Room, Highland Library, 4160 Ridge Road, Medina. Learn the history of Lughnasadh. Register at https://tinyurl.com/jxjfpt36
Wednesday, July 31
National Mutt Day https://tinyurl.com/22fywjrw
American Red Cross Blood Drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Root Candles, 640 W Liberty Street, Medina. http://tinyurl.com/3u5y5pkt
Wizarding Week: Gringotts Bank, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Story Time Room, Medina Library, 210 S. Broadway Street, Medina. Discover the world of Harry Potter all week with games, crafts, and more. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ eh7x262e
Backyard Wildlife, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Seville Library, 45 Center Street, Seville. Join the Akron Zoo and discover animals that live in Ohio. Information at https://tinyurl.com/3dbskvs6
What's All the Buzz About? 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Lodi Community Room, Lodi Library, 635 Wooster Street, Lodi. Join for an animated movie about a sweet bee with a big heart. Register at https://tinyurl.com/437vcrsd
Chatter Box At Spokes II Cafe, 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., 5741 River Styx Road, Medina. Information at https://tinyurl.com/2mtrushn
Pajama Story Time, 6:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., Children’s Activity Room, Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad Street, Wadsworth. Put on pajamas and listen to a story. More information at https://tinyurl.com/2vzdd53e
Celebrate!
Joy of Medina County Magazine thanks and celebrates these great companies who believe in community and make it possible for readers to enjoy this magazine for free.
Please thank the following companies for bringing Joy to you!
Cable, Internet, Phone
Armstrong
1141 Lafayette Road, Medina
Contact: Sam Pietrangelo
Community Marketing Manager
Phone: 330-722-3141
Website: ArmstrongOneWire.com
Community Resources
Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities
4691 Windfall Road, Medina
Contact: Patti Hetkey
330-725-7751
Website: https://www.mcbdd.org/
Photographer
FlashBang Photography/ Videography
Phone: 440-263-4502
Website: FlashBangFoto.com
Simulated Shooting Range
Engage Virtual Range
Locations in Medina and Avon Lake
Visit EVR website for information and to book appointments.
Website: EngageVirtualRange.com/r/b9aSrM
Fireplaces, Hot Tubs, Grills The Place
2377 Medina Road, Medina
Contact: Andrea Reedy
Phone: 330-239-4000
Website: YourPlace4.com
Want to join these great companies in sponsoring the best publication in Medina County? Contact Amy Barnes, Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com, 330-461-0589.
The Col. H.G. Blake House photo by Amy Barnes
Joy of Medina County Magazine
1114 N. Court, #144, Medina, Ohio 44256
E-mail: Joy@BlakeHousePublishing.com
Website: JoyOfMedinaCountyMagazine.com
Phone: 330-461-0589
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