Garrettsville – Reading the cover of the play “Distance” by Jerre Dye immediately draws the reader into the drama. Alzheimer’s is taking Irene Radford further and further away from the people in her ever-devolving world. It’s a shifting world where the past becomes the present, the present becomes the past, and the future remains a terrifying mystery. Meanwhile, life must move on. Irene’s daughter, Luvie, picks up the pieces of her failed marriage while dealing with the burden of her mother’s illness. Irene’s in-home health worker navigates the complex relationship with her adult daughter, while Irene’s hairdresser must grapple with the pain of saying goodbye. As Irene drifts further into memory, the closer these relative strangers become inextricably connected to one another. According to the Chicago Theatre Review, “Dye’s latest play is heartbreaking, yet it’s also filled with unexpected humor and tenderness.” In her fifth role at the Curtains Up Theater, Shannon Mallory plays the lead role of Irene. She notes that most people have encountered the difficult subject of Alzheimer’s through a family or friend, and noted that viewers of this latest performance will find something that’s relatable to their lives. After participating in theater throughout high school and college, Mallory shared that the Curtains Up Theater is, “very refreshing, warm, and all-inclusive.” She urged people to come out to support their friends and neighbors at Curtain’s Up, adding “I’ve made lots of good friendships and met people I wouldn’t have met otherwise.” Her daughter is also involved in the theater, serving as an extra in productions since the age of 11. The proud mom noted that her teen daughter and friends have had the opportunity to work as stage hands, helping with sound, props, and in the light booth, getting opportunities they wouldn’t normally get in school. Madeline Cuckow, an eighth-grade science teacher at Warren City Schools, plays Irene’s daughter. A new resident of Garrettsville, Cuckow, who has been involved in theater since middle school, joined the Curtains Up cast in order to get to know people in her new hometown. While she’s played more light-hearted, comedic roles in the past, she noted that this play is very different. She’s looking forward to challenging herself to stretch as an actor. This is her second performance at Curtains Up Theater. In his first theater production ever, Eric DeRue has joined the cast. A life-long fan of theater productions, this 28-year-old has wanted to be in theater since he was 5. DeRue works during the week at Portage Industries, but “has been to a lot of plays, and pretends to direct and cast all the time,” shared his mom, Betsy Heisler. When they noticed the placemats (advertising Curtains Up) at Miller’s Restaurant, they decided to get involved. “I figured we could do something to help,” Heisler shared, “like taking tickets or helping backstage.” She was shocked when director Jackie Rinearson asked them to be part of the ensemble. The pair doesn’t have any lines, but will take part in the scene in the train station, so be sure to look for it. DeRue is looking forward to the performance, especially since he likes trains. He’s got over 20 friends and family members who plan to see his first theater performance later this month. Heisler noted that her son is “super excited about getting his picture in the program.” Watching a recent rehearsal, Heiser explained, “It’s fun to watch it take shape over time. It’s a tough story that will comfort people who are going through it. It’s hard, but when people pull together and work together, it’s a good thing.” You can experience “Distance” for yourself at the Curtains Up Theater Fridays and Saturdays later this month. Performances will be held on January 17th, 18th, 24th and 25th at 7 pm and on Sunday, January 19th at 2 pm at the Iva Walker Auditorium at J.A. Garfield High School. Due to the serious subject matter, the performance is not recommended for children under 12. The performance is made possible by the support of Ryser Insurance and Ohio Health Benefits. Tickets are available at the door and are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors 65 and up. Tickets for groups of 15 or more are $5 each. Visit www.curtainsuptheatre.com for more information.

You’re invited to attend Crafting with Marian’s “Personalized Reusable Water Bottle” program at the Garrettsville Library on Saturday, January 18 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm. Participants will use glass paint, sponges and brushes to upcycle a glass bottle. It is a fabulous way to repurpose to help save the planet from excess discarded materials as well as provide yourself with a lovely glass water bottle. All supplies will be provided. This program is free and open to adults. However, there is a $5 fee to register for a seat, which is promptly refunded the day of the program. Seats are limited for this popular program series, so call 330-527-4378 for your registration or register in-person during your next visit.

Garrettsville – Reading the cover of the play “Distance” by Jerre Dye immediately draws the reader into the drama. Alzheimer’s is taking Irene Radford further and further away from the people in her ever-devolving world. It’s a shifting world where the past becomes the present, the present becomes the past, and the future remains a terrifying mystery. Meanwhile, life must move on. Irene’s daughter, Luvie, picks up the pieces of her failed marriage while dealing with the burden of her mother’s illness. Irene’s in-home health worker navigates the complex relationship with her adult daughter, while Irene’s hairdresser must grapple with the pain of saying goodbye. As Irene drifts further into memory, the closer these relative strangers become inextricably connected to one another. According to the Chicago Theatre Review, “Dye’s latest play is heartbreaking, yet it’s also filled with unexpected humor and tenderness.” In her fifth role at the Curtains Up Theater, Shannon Mallory plays the lead role of Irene. She notes that most people have encountered the difficult subject of Alzheimer’s through a family or friend, and noted that viewers of this latest performance will find something that’s relatable to their lives. After participating in theater throughout high school and college, Mallory shared that the Curtains Up Theater is, “very refreshing, warm, and all-inclusive.” She urged people to come out to support their friends and neighbors at Curtain’s Up, adding “I’ve made lots of good friendships and met people I wouldn’t have met otherwise.” Her daughter is also involved in the theater, serving as an extra in productions since the age of 11. The proud mom noted that her teen daughter and friends have had the opportunity to work as stage hands, helping with sound, props, and in the light booth, getting opportunities they wouldn’t normally get in school. Madeline Cuckow, an eighth-grade science teacher at Warren City Schools, plays Irene’s daughter. A new resident of Garrettsville, Cuckow, who has been involved in theater since middle school, joined the Curtains Up cast in order to get to know people in her new hometown. While she’s played more light-hearted, comedic roles in the past, she noted that this play is very different. She’s looking forward to challenging herself to stretch as an actor. This is her second performance at Curtains Up Theater. In his first theater production ever, Eric DeRue has joined the cast. A life-long fan of theater productions, this 28-year-old has wanted to be in theater since he was 5. DeRue works during the week at Portage Industries, but “has been to a lot of plays, and pretends to direct and cast all the time,” shared his mom, Betsy Heisler. When they noticed the placemats (advertising Curtains Up) at Miller’s Restaurant, they decided to get involved. “I figured we could do something to help,” Heisler shared, “like taking tickets or helping backstage.” She was shocked when director Jackie Rinearson asked them to be part of the ensemble. The pair doesn’t have any lines, but will take part in the scene in the train station, so be sure to look for it. DeRue is looking forward to the performance, especially since he likes trains. He’s got over 20 friends and family members who plan to see his first theater performance later this month. Heisler noted that her son is “super excited about getting his picture in the program.” Watching a recent rehearsal, Heiser explained, “It’s fun to watch it take shape over time. It’s a tough story that will comfort people who are going through it. It’s hard, but when people pull together and work together, it’s a good thing.” You can experience “Distance” for yourself at the Curtains Up Theater Fridays and Saturdays later this month. Performances will be held on January 17th, 18th, 24th and 25th at 7 pm and on Sunday, January 19th at 2 pm at the Iva Walker Auditorium at J.A. Garfield High School. Due to the serious subject matter, the performance is not recommended for children under 12. The performance is made possible by the support of Ryser Insurance and Ohio Health Benefits. Tickets are available at the door and are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors 65 and up. Tickets for groups of 15 or more are $5 each. Visit www.curtainsuptheatre.com for more information.

Garrettsville – Reading the cover of the play “Distance” by Jerre Dye immediately draws the reader into the drama. Alzheimer’s is taking Irene Radford further and further away from the people in her ever-devolving world. It’s a shifting world where the past becomes the present, the present becomes the past, and the future remains a terrifying mystery. Meanwhile, life must move on. Irene’s daughter, Luvie, picks up the pieces of her failed marriage while dealing with the burden of her mother’s illness. Irene’s in-home health worker navigates the complex relationship with her adult daughter, while Irene’s hairdresser must grapple with the pain of saying goodbye. As Irene drifts further into memory, the closer these relative strangers become inextricably connected to one another. According to the Chicago Theatre Review, “Dye’s latest play is heartbreaking, yet it’s also filled with unexpected humor and tenderness.” In her fifth role at the Curtains Up Theater, Shannon Mallory plays the lead role of Irene. She notes that most people have encountered the difficult subject of Alzheimer’s through a family or friend, and noted that viewers of this latest performance will find something that’s relatable to their lives. After participating in theater throughout high school and college, Mallory shared that the Curtains Up Theater is, “very refreshing, warm, and all-inclusive.” She urged people to come out to support their friends and neighbors at Curtain’s Up, adding “I’ve made lots of good friendships and met people I wouldn’t have met otherwise.” Her daughter is also involved in the theater, serving as an extra in productions since the age of 11. The proud mom noted that her teen daughter and friends have had the opportunity to work as stage hands, helping with sound, props, and in the light booth, getting opportunities they wouldn’t normally get in school. Madeline Cuckow, an eighth-grade science teacher at Warren City Schools, plays Irene’s daughter. A new resident of Garrettsville, Cuckow, who has been involved in theater since middle school, joined the Curtains Up cast in order to get to know people in her new hometown. While she’s played more light-hearted, comedic roles in the past, she noted that this play is very different. She’s looking forward to challenging herself to stretch as an actor. This is her second performance at Curtains Up Theater. In his first theater production ever, Eric DeRue has joined the cast. A life-long fan of theater productions, this 28-year-old has wanted to be in theater since he was 5. DeRue works during the week at Portage Industries, but “has been to a lot of plays, and pretends to direct and cast all the time,” shared his mom, Betsy Heisler. When they noticed the placemats (advertising Curtains Up) at Miller’s Restaurant, they decided to get involved. “I figured we could do something to help,” Heisler shared, “like taking tickets or helping backstage.” She was shocked when director Jackie Rinearson asked them to be part of the ensemble. The pair doesn’t have any lines, but will take part in the scene in the train station, so be sure to look for it. DeRue is looking forward to the performance, especially since he likes trains. He’s got over 20 friends and family members who plan to see his first theater performance later this month. Heisler noted that her son is “super excited about getting his picture in the program.” Watching a recent rehearsal, Heiser explained, “It’s fun to watch it take shape over time. It’s a tough story that will comfort people who are going through it. It’s hard, but when people pull together and work together, it’s a good thing.” You can experience “Distance” for yourself at the Curtains Up Theater Fridays and Saturdays later this month. Performances will be held on January 17th, 18th, 24th and 25th at 7 pm and on Sunday, January 19th at 2 pm at the Iva Walker Auditorium at J.A. Garfield High School. Due to the serious subject matter, the performance is not recommended for children under 12. The performance is made possible by the support of Ryser Insurance and Ohio Health Benefits. Tickets are available at the door and are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors 65 and up. Tickets for groups of 15 or more are $5 each. Visit www.curtainsuptheatre.com for more information.

Garrettsville – Reading the cover of the play “Distance” by Jerre Dye immediately draws the reader into the drama. Alzheimer’s is taking Irene Radford further and further away from the people in her ever-devolving world. It’s a shifting world where the past becomes the present, the present becomes the past, and the future remains a terrifying mystery. Meanwhile, life must move on. Irene’s daughter, Luvie, picks up the pieces of her failed marriage while dealing with the burden of her mother’s illness. Irene’s in-home health worker navigates the complex relationship with her adult daughter, while Irene’s hairdresser must grapple with the pain of saying goodbye. As Irene drifts further into memory, the closer these relative strangers become inextricably connected to one another. According to the Chicago Theatre Review, “Dye’s latest play is heartbreaking, yet it’s also filled with unexpected humor and tenderness.” In her fifth role at the Curtains Up Theater, Shannon Mallory plays the lead role of Irene. She notes that most people have encountered the difficult subject of Alzheimer’s through a family or friend, and noted that viewers of this latest performance will find something that’s relatable to their lives. After participating in theater throughout high school and college, Mallory shared that the Curtains Up Theater is, “very refreshing, warm, and all-inclusive.” She urged people to come out to support their friends and neighbors at Curtain’s Up, adding “I’ve made lots of good friendships and met people I wouldn’t have met otherwise.” Her daughter is also involved in the theater, serving as an extra in productions since the age of 11. The proud mom noted that her teen daughter and friends have had the opportunity to work as stage hands, helping with sound, props, and in the light booth, getting opportunities they wouldn’t normally get in school. Madeline Cuckow, an eighth-grade science teacher at Warren City Schools, plays Irene’s daughter. A new resident of Garrettsville, Cuckow, who has been involved in theater since middle school, joined the Curtains Up cast in order to get to know people in her new hometown. While she’s played more light-hearted, comedic roles in the past, she noted that this play is very different. She’s looking forward to challenging herself to stretch as an actor. This is her second performance at Curtains Up Theater. In his first theater production ever, Eric DeRue has joined the cast. A life-long fan of theater productions, this 28-year-old has wanted to be in theater since he was 5. DeRue works during the week at Portage Industries, but “has been to a lot of plays, and pretends to direct and cast all the time,” shared his mom, Betsy Heisler. When they noticed the placemats (advertising Curtains Up) at Miller’s Restaurant, they decided to get involved. “I figured we could do something to help,” Heisler shared, “like taking tickets or helping backstage.” She was shocked when director Jackie Rinearson asked them to be part of the ensemble. The pair doesn’t have any lines, but will take part in the scene in the train station, so be sure to look for it. DeRue is looking forward to the performance, especially since he likes trains. He’s got over 20 friends and family members who plan to see his first theater performance later this month. Heisler noted that her son is “super excited about getting his picture in the program.” Watching a recent rehearsal, Heiser explained, “It’s fun to watch it take shape over time. It’s a tough story that will comfort people who are going through it. It’s hard, but when people pull together and work together, it’s a good thing.” You can experience “Distance” for yourself at the Curtains Up Theater Fridays and Saturdays later this month. Performances will be held on January 17th, 18th, 24th and 25th at 7 pm and on Sunday, January 19th at 2 pm at the Iva Walker Auditorium at J.A. Garfield High School. Due to the serious subject matter, the performance is not recommended for children under 12. The performance is made possible by the support of Ryser Insurance and Ohio Health Benefits. Tickets are available at the door and are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors 65 and up. Tickets for groups of 15 or more are $5 each. Visit www.curtainsuptheatre.com for more information.

On January 25th, the PTO will hold a Spaghetti Dinner and Student Art Show at the Elementary School from 4:00 - 8:00 pm at the elementary school. “This is a new fundraiser for the PTO and we are super excited for it to be a successful event,” said Michelle Gill, co-chair of the event. The public is invited to enjoy dinner and view students’ work of art. This public event will help raise the needed funds for the PTO to continue their mission of providing the students and staff of James A. Garfield with supplies, materials and financial support to help them grow and succeed. Pre-sale tickets can be purchased by contacting Michelle Gill, 440-669-7525 or Michelle Herron, 330-647-2638

Garrettsville – Reading the cover of the play “Distance” by Jerre Dye immediately draws the reader into the drama. Alzheimer’s is taking Irene Radford further and further away from the people in her ever-devolving world. It’s a shifting world where the past becomes the present, the present becomes the past, and the future remains a terrifying mystery. Meanwhile, life must move on. Irene’s daughter, Luvie, picks up the pieces of her failed marriage while dealing with the burden of her mother’s illness. Irene’s in-home health worker navigates the complex relationship with her adult daughter, while Irene’s hairdresser must grapple with the pain of saying goodbye. As Irene drifts further into memory, the closer these relative strangers become inextricably connected to one another. According to the Chicago Theatre Review, “Dye’s latest play is heartbreaking, yet it’s also filled with unexpected humor and tenderness.” In her fifth role at the Curtains Up Theater, Shannon Mallory plays the lead role of Irene. She notes that most people have encountered the difficult subject of Alzheimer’s through a family or friend, and noted that viewers of this latest performance will find something that’s relatable to their lives. After participating in theater throughout high school and college, Mallory shared that the Curtains Up Theater is, “very refreshing, warm, and all-inclusive.” She urged people to come out to support their friends and neighbors at Curtain’s Up, adding “I’ve made lots of good friendships and met people I wouldn’t have met otherwise.” Her daughter is also involved in the theater, serving as an extra in productions since the age of 11. The proud mom noted that her teen daughter and friends have had the opportunity to work as stage hands, helping with sound, props, and in the light booth, getting opportunities they wouldn’t normally get in school. Madeline Cuckow, an eighth-grade science teacher at Warren City Schools, plays Irene’s daughter. A new resident of Garrettsville, Cuckow, who has been involved in theater since middle school, joined the Curtains Up cast in order to get to know people in her new hometown. While she’s played more light-hearted, comedic roles in the past, she noted that this play is very different. She’s looking forward to challenging herself to stretch as an actor. This is her second performance at Curtains Up Theater. In his first theater production ever, Eric DeRue has joined the cast. A life-long fan of theater productions, this 28-year-old has wanted to be in theater since he was 5. DeRue works during the week at Portage Industries, but “has been to a lot of plays, and pretends to direct and cast all the time,” shared his mom, Betsy Heisler. When they noticed the placemats (advertising Curtains Up) at Miller’s Restaurant, they decided to get involved. “I figured we could do something to help,” Heisler shared, “like taking tickets or helping backstage.” She was shocked when director Jackie Rinearson asked them to be part of the ensemble. The pair doesn’t have any lines, but will take part in the scene in the train station, so be sure to look for it. DeRue is looking forward to the performance, especially since he likes trains. He’s got over 20 friends and family members who plan to see his first theater performance later this month. Heisler noted that her son is “super excited about getting his picture in the program.” Watching a recent rehearsal, Heiser explained, “It’s fun to watch it take shape over time. It’s a tough story that will comfort people who are going through it. It’s hard, but when people pull together and work together, it’s a good thing.” You can experience “Distance” for yourself at the Curtains Up Theater Fridays and Saturdays later this month. Performances will be held on January 17th, 18th, 24th and 25th at 7 pm and on Sunday, January 19th at 2 pm at the Iva Walker Auditorium at J.A. Garfield High School. Due to the serious subject matter, the performance is not recommended for children under 12. The performance is made possible by the support of Ryser Insurance and Ohio Health Benefits. Tickets are available at the door and are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors 65 and up. Tickets for groups of 15 or more are $5 each. Visit www.curtainsuptheatre.com for more information.

Portage County District Library’s Garrettsville location is partnering with Portage Park District to present a program for preschool and early school age children, accompanied by an adult. Please join us for a “Mystery of Snowflakes Book Hike” on Wednesday, January 29 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Bring your favorite little learners to this “Owlbert- approved” Owlet adventure to learn about the mysterious frozen water that falls from the sky. Program will begin with a reading from a book about snowflakes, followed by a short walk outside on the Headwaters Trail next to the library. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Remember to dress for the weather. Call the Portage Park District at 330-297-7728 to register for this exciting event.

Mark your calendars. The Garrettsville Area Chamber’s 27th Annual Community Yard sale is slated for Spring 2020 and will run 9am--4pm each day. So start cleaning out the closets and get ready to make some cash on those unused and unwanted items one has lying around. Remember, what might be considered trash by you could be someone’s treasure. This annual event is not limited to residents of Garrettsville. We encourage residents of Windham, Hiram, Nelson, Freedom residents to participate as well. If you live outside the greater Garrettsville area and want to participate, you can register for a space at SkyLanes bowling alley in town. Registration for the yard sale begins on Friday, February 1st, 2020 and closes at 5:00 PM on May 5th, 2020. Registration forms are available in the Weekly Villager newspaper, at the Chamber of Commerce office (8088 Main Street), and on the Chamber's website. Online registration is also available at 44231.org/shop. All forms will need to be dropped off at The Weekly Villager office, or mailed (with payment) to P.O. Box 1, Garrettsville, OH 44231. The fee for the event is $15 ($16 online) and Garrettsville village permits are waived if you register for this chamber event. The fee covers: Advertising for your sale; inclusion of your address and sale highlights on the official map; inclusion of your sale on the Discover Garrettsville app; inclusion of your sale on the interactive website map. The deadline to register and be included on the list is May 5, 2020. The 27th Annual Community Yard Sale is sponsored by the Garrettsville Area Chamber.

Join us on Main Street for the first classic car cruise night of 2020.

Presented by the Garrettsville Summerfest Corporation, a 501c3 non-profit organization, Garrettsville Summerfest transforms Garrettsville's quaint Main Street into a rocking feast of people and colorful tents for three days of world-class fun in the sun. As always admission to Summerfest is free!

Spend the day enjoying the sights at Garrettsville Summerfest, then take in the awesome classic cars in Garfield Plaza!

Main Street Cruise Night