🌱Dazzle Awards Are Back + Ceramic Poppies Honor Memorial Day

Happy Wednesday, people of Avon-Avon Lake! Here's everything you need to know about what's happening in town today.

First, today's weather:

A passing afternoon shower. High: 67 Low: 59.

Here are the top three stories in Avon-Avon Lake today:

1. Following in the footsteps of the Alabama Poppy Project, Avon High School art students have been busy working making beautiful, ceramic poppies to honor and memorialize fallen heroes on Memorial Day. Reportedly, Mike Schrull, American Legion Post 211 commander, was told about Alabama's Poppy Project by his sister. The Alabama Poppy Project is handmade ceramic poppies placed on metal stakes in a field; white ribbons displaying the names of the fallen are tied to various poppies, dedicated by loved ones, in their honor. Schrull loved the idea and wanted to bring it to Ohio. The American Legion Post has been selling the poppies for a $20 donation for families/friends to purchase in honor/memory of loved ones. Donations will be given to help assist families of veterans. (The Morning Journal)
2. Joe Reitz said a final goodbye recently, to his 35 years of working for the City of Avon Lake. He started as a part-time inspector and worked his way up to director of public works. He plans on spending his retirement cruizing in his antique cars, spending time with family and traveling. Reportedly, Mayor Greg Zilka said, “... Joe is a true friend. He is caring and always available to help others. He is a loving husband and family man. We wish him well as he enters another phase of his life.” (cleveland.com)
3. The Playhouse Square will once again host the Dazzle Awards after two years of being canceled because of COVID-19. Students from 29 area high schools will once again share their talents on the Connor Palace stage. The event will take place on May 21 at 7:30 p.m. hosted by Natalie Herbick of Cleveland's Fox 8 news. According to a release from the school district, Avon Lake High School is honored to receive several nominations. (The Morning Journal)

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From my notebook:

• Support Avon Schools: "Avon’s very own hero, Jerry Galant, was recently honored from the county for all he has done to support our students’ outdoor learning experience at the Avon East Garden. Thank you, Jerry! You are a true HERO!" (Facebook)
• Cleveland Clinic: "Loneliness is a risk factor for chronic health conditions — here's why (and what to do about it): Check out our story." (Instagram)
• Avon Lake City Schools: "Everything is possible....when pigs fly..... Mrs. Burgess' physics students at ALHS recently analyzed circular motion and tension in a "flying pigs" lab." (Facebook)
• AVON PTA: "If your family would like to donate, please send a labeled "LC4UKRAINE" envelope in this week!" (Facebook)
• Avon Lake City Schools: "The deadline to register has been extended. Rodeo is this Saturday." (Facebook)
• AVON PTA: "Big things happening at ELC! Please sign up to be a part of it!" (Facebook)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Wednesday off right! I'll see you around.

— Karena Garrity

About me: I am a native of Connecticut, who currently resides in the Tri-Town community of Chester, Deep River and Essex. I have been a community reporter for the better part of the past 20 years. I love my small town community and I am honored to be a part of Patch.com. You can reach me at; karena.garrity@patch.com.

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Avon-Avon Lake Daily? Contact me at karena.garrity@patch.com