Celebration Grove is Austintown’s hidden gem

Gary Reel and Susan Leetch at Kirk Road cleanup project in Austintown.

NEIGHBORS SPOTLIGHT | GARY L. REEL

Age: 62

Groups: Rotary, church, 4-H International Program, People to People, Grange, Civil War Roundtable, World War II Heritage Group, Canfield Community Concert Band

Education: Austintown grades 1-12 (all in old school), then YSU for bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

What do you like best about living in your town?

Hard-working people who want to do the best for their families and neighborhoods, strong police and fire protection, nice neighborhoods, library, schools, parades, band and choir programs.

What one thing would you add to your town if money was not an issue?

Swim center attached to fitness center, which could be expanded for social programs and community gatherings, similar to Salem.

Describe the last community event you went to:

Fitch Band Night, where nine or 10 bands were gathered to show their skills. It was a great night in the late summer and whole families were there to support their youth.

If there was a store or business to add to your town, which would you like it to be?

Best Buy. It’s too far and too much traffic in Boardman.

Where is your favorite place in town to go for a little hide-away time or bite to eat?

I enjoy Panera with wife or friends, always seems to be someone I know walking in. Food is good.

What one place would you direct an outsider to visit to experience your town?

Township Park has lots of space and facilities. One spot hidden is the Celebration Grove near Pogany Pavilion — 100 trees dedicated to someone or an event. It was a Rotary project from 2004-2006. The library is also a gem — relaxed atmosphere.

Is there a song, book or movie that you hear or see and say “They’re describing me?

“Friends are Friends Forever” and “I’m Proud to Be An American.”