Our family project was cleaning up Wedgewood Park

Molly Faloon

Age: 39

Family: Tom and I met at YSU and got married on Dec. 31, 1994. Four children: Brendan, 11; Colin, 10; Kathleen, 8; and Patrick, 7. We also have 3 dogs: Holly, 14; Sidney, 1; and Carmel, 1.

I’m the youngest of nine children — 5 sisters and 3 brothers. My parents are Bill and Margaret Welsh. My mom died in 1998; my dad lives in Boardman.

I live in the same area — Nottingham Drive in Austintown — that I grew up in.

Groups: Most of my time is spent volunteering for SJ&IHM and taxiing my three boys to their respective hockey obligations. I then try to plan some well deserved girl-time with my daughter, like shopping or attending live shows (the Rockettes, plays at Powers, or events at the Covelli Center). Tom & I try to spend quality time with our children as well as our extended family and friends.

Education: I attended first through eigth grade at St. Joseph School in Austintown. I graduated from Ursuline High School in 1988. I graduated from YSU with a B.S. in Elementary & Special Education and a kindergarten Validation in 1994.

Q. What do you like best about living in your town?

A. The best thing about living in Austintown is the wonderful friends that surround us. I often refer to my neighborhood as “Mayberry” because our neighbors are more like “the family members we got to choose” than just random people who happen to live near us.

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

A. If money were not an issue, I would add a community center with a rec center, a large community swimming pool, picnic facilities, and an ice rink. Growing up, I practically lived at the Wedgewood Swim Club all summer, and I’m sad my children are missing out on that community experience.

Q. Describe the last community event you went to:

A. My family and I were members of the Friends for Wedgewood Park, and we worked with many others to restore that park to at least a safe place to play. As such, we’ve done multiple park cleanups, shoveled and spread gravel, helped stain the playground equipment, and worked on the Community Block Party Committee. It was amazing to see so many friends and neighbors working together to improve our community. Hopefully, the parks department will not only be able to keep the revived park in working order, but also develop it into a full service park including running water, picnic areas, and a pavilion.

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

A. I think Austintown is in need of a banquet hall — possibly in the Wedgewood or Austintown plazas. There is plenty of parking at both, and there are a few bars/restaurants in both areas that would benefit from the “after parties.”

Q. If you could name a street after someone, who would it be and why?

A. My mother, Margaret Mary Welsh. She was a spectacular human being who taught me to nurture my faith, to love unconditionally, to value family above all else, and to always look for the silver lining in both situations and people.

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

A. I often enjoy going out to eat; however, the destination depends on the company. If we’re going out as a family, we often choose Salsitas due the casual and kid-friendly atmosphere. If I’m going out on a date with my husband, my choice would be The Upstairs due to the more romantic atmosphere. The food at both is delicious!!

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

A. Mill Creek Park is my favorite tour destination for any out-of-town visitors. Yes, I realize I’m outside the township limits of Austintown, but nothing compares to the beauty and majesty of Mill Creek!

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

A. The song I feel best describes me is “Just Another Day in Paradise” by Phil Vassar. I am very thankful for the blessings in my life, and I try to appreciate them daily!!