STRONGSVILLE, Ohio -- The Strongsville Community Garden, a thriving oasis of greenery and camaraderie, has been cultivating more than just vegetables since its inception in 2017.
Nestled at 18181 Pearl Road within the Southwest Medical Center property, this garden boasts 65 plots, each measuring 4 feet by 8 feet, and serves as a nurturing ground for 65 families.
The initiative, a joint venture between the City of Strongsville and the Southwest General Medical Center, offers residents a unique opportunity to grow fresh, organic produce.
But the garden’s impact extends far beyond agriculture. It has become a vibrant hub for community interaction and mutual support.
“In the true spirit of a community, everyone helps out,” says Jennifer Milbrandt, coordinator of natural resources for Strongsville.
“I feel like our garden has become a community!”
Participation in the garden requires each plot holder to contribute to various activities, ensuring the garden’s upkeep and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among participants.
Activities include:
• Spring cleanup: Held in April, volunteers install wood chips around the plots and clean up the garden’s perimeter, bringing gloves, cardboard, garden tools and wheelbarrows.
• Weekly garden monitoring: Gardeners evaluate plots for weeds, notify plot owners and spray weeds around the perimeter.
• Social/flower deliveries: Volunteers plan events in the garden and deliver flowers weekly to local nursing homes and healthcare facilities.
• Bulletin board updates: This team provides updates on insects, diseases and what crops to plant or harvest. They also inform gardeners about social gatherings and garden walkabouts.
• Garden advisory board: This group oversees and directs the garden’s activities.
• Donation plots: Volunteers assist with large garden plots and deliver produce to local service organizations, including the city’s four fire stations.
The garden has become a haven for those without gardening space at home, blossoming into a close-knit community.
Through its diverse activities and communal spirit, the Strongsville Community Garden exemplifies how a shared space for cultivation can grow into a cherished community landmark.
For more information, go to www.strongsville.org.
Square dancing: The Brecksville Squares are inviting the community to join in the fun and excitement of square dancing with a complimentary introduction session.
This event is perfect for anyone looking to try something new, meet new people and enjoy a fun-filled evening.
The introductory lesson will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 9 in the old hall on the lower level of the Church of the Assumption, 9183 Broadview Road in Broadview Heights.
Square dancing is a great way to get some exercise, challenge your mind and enjoy music and camaraderie.
No previous experience is necessary, and all ages are welcome to participate.
The Brecksville Squares, a local square dancing club, has been promoting this lively and social dance form for years.
Their experienced instructors will be on hand to guide newcomers through the basics.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the joy of square dancing.
For more information, go to www.clevelandsquaredance.org/br/.
Brecksville talks: The Brecksville Human Services Center presents “Brecksville Human Services Talks!”
Here’s what’s coming up:
• Aug. 19 at 11 a.m.: Howard Hannah has a program about downsizing. Remember, your kids probably won’t want your stuff, so think about downsizing.
• Aug. 23 at 11 a.m.: The University Hospitals Health Series “Questions Are the Answers: Strategies for Making the Most of Your Doctor Visit.” Identify ways to get organized for your doctor visit and what questions to ask to ensure the best possible outcome. Presented by Lynn Hermensky from the Hospice of the Western Reserve, a partner of University Hospitals.
All programs are at the Brecksville Human Services Center at 2 Community Drive.
Call the center at 440-526-2499 to register.
School fundraiser: North Royalton City Schools is revving up community support with an exciting fundraiser that offers participants the chance to win a 2025 Chevrolet Trax.
The districtwide raffle, organized in partnership with Serpentini Chevrolet of Strongsville, aims to benefit various school groups and organizations while giving one lucky winner the keys to a sleek new ride.
Tickets are now available for a $10 donation each.
The raffle not only provides a shot at winning the grand prize, but also includes a $10-off coupon for an oil change at Serpentini Chevrolet.
Checks can be made out to The North Royalton Stadium Foundation.
Community members can purchase tickets at any North Royalton City Schools building or the Athletic Office at North Royalton High School until Oct. 10.
The grand drawing will take place during the North Royalton home varsity football game on the same date.
The winner is not required to be present.
Proceeds will be split evenly between the North Royalton Stadium Foundation and various school clubs, organizations and teams. This structure ensures that the entire school community benefits from the initiative.
To drum up excitement, the 2025 Chevy Trax is currently on display in front of the Board of Education office, giving potential ticket buyers a glimpse of the grand prize.
Additionally, the ticket seller who moves the most entries will receive a $500 reward, encouraging widespread participation.
Interested participants are encouraged to act fast, as tickets are expected to sell quickly.
With each $10 ticket, community members not only enter for a chance to win, but also directly contribute to the enhancement of educational and extracurricular programs across the North Royalton City School District.
Clerk of the year: North Royalton Clerk of Council Helen Dunlap has been recognized as the Ohio Municipal Clerks Association 2024 Clerk of the Year.
Helen’s unwavering commitment to public service and her invaluable contributions to our community make her a true asset.
Please join me and extend heartfelt congratulations to her!
Community festival: The 138th North Royalton Community Festival is set to take place Aug. 23-25, promising a weekend full of festivities and fun for all ages.
Festival highlights include:
• Old Timers Banquet, Aug. 24: This nostalgic gathering will celebrate the rich history of the North Royalton community. It’s an excellent opportunity for longtime residents to reminisce and for newcomers to learn about the town’s storied past.
• Fireworks Spectacular, Aug. 24: Sponsored by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 38 and NOPEC, the fireworks display promises to be a breathtaking show. The sky will light up at dusk, providing a magical end to the day’s festivities.
• County’s Best Parade, 3 p.m. Aug. 23.: The grand parade will march through the streets of North Royalton, featuring floats, marching bands and community groups.
The North Royalton Community Festival is a cherished event that brings together residents and visitors to celebrate the spirit and heritage of the town.
For more information about the festival schedule and activities, visit www.northroyalton.org.
Let the Brecksville, Broadview Heights, North Royalton and Strongsville communities know what is going on with your organization, church, school, business or family. Email me at shirleymac48@att.net.
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