New format for Winter Solstice event

The Geauga Park District announced this year’s plan for its annual Winter Solstice Celebration, and this one will feature an all-new format — a selfguided Solstice Traditions Trail in the woods

The event will take place 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Dec. 21 at The West Woods and its nature center, 9465 Kinsman Road in Russell Township.

Indoors, take in cookies and hot cider while listening to festive music of the season performed by the Pilgrim Brass Choir. Also, children are invited to try a free craft, making a lantern from a recycled water bottle and tissue paper.

Then, outdoors, stroll the self-guided Solstice Traditions Trail, a candlelit route through the forest; warm up by a bonfire; and stop by the stage area to watch costumed interpreters perform interactive skits highlighting solstice traditions of past civilizations, like the Druids and the origins of mistletoe.

Attendees are asked to dress for time spent indoors and out. Only indoor portions will be fully wheelchair/stroller accessible.

Registration is not required for this free event, but call 440-286-9516 with questions.

Citizens Bank seeks to aid nonprofits

Citizens Bank announced it is now accepting applications from nonprofits for crucial financial literacy services that help consumers better manage their money.

The bank said in a news release that this is part of an ongoing commitment to give people the confidence and tools they need to budget, save, invest and be fiscally healthy.

From Dec. 11 to 29, organizations throughout the bank’s 11-state retail banking footprint are invited to submit an application for funding as part of the bank’s Citizens Helping Citizens Manage Money financial literacy initiative.

Eligible financial literacy activities include: basics of banking and asset building; budgeting; homeownership counseling; foreclosure prevention; credit management and repair programs; and financial management for small businesses.

To be considered for funding, eligible nonprofits in the communities served by Citizens Bank should submit an online application by Dec. 29. Recipients will be announced in April.

For more information on nonprofit programs and services that may qualify for funding, or how to submit an application, visit http://bit.ly/1nyNvYP.

Agenda

The Agenda lists public meetings and closed executive sessions in the area today, unless otherwise noted. Bainbridge Township

trustees: 8 a.m., Saturday, swearing in elected officials, town hall. Chester Township trustees: 4 p.m., township hall.

Corrections

If you see an error in our paper, please let us know by calling 440-9510000 or 800-947-2737, ext. 47167.