Spirit of giving benefits family

Compassion, vested interest in communities ‘vital,’ council vice president says

The only thing missing was the tree.

That was Eastlake Council Vice President Michael Zuren’s observation while Christmas in July took place in the Titschinger family’s living room July 22.

At 8 a.m., Nick and Becki Titschinger, and their four children, Jayden, Anthony, Jacob and Annalynn, were surprised to find Zuren, local pastors Randy Whitely and Todd Gulley, of Harvest Bible Chapel (Cleveland Northeast) and Willo-Lake Church of the Nazarene, respectively, and Santa and Mrs. Claus wishing them a Merry Christmas in July.

To the delight of the children, Santa and Mrs. Claus handed out multiple gifts, including clothes, shoes and games, which the children tore open with glee while repeatedly thanking the jolly couple.

“It’s nice to be a part of such a wonderful event,” Zuren said, handing Nick and Becki a Christmas feast from

“It’s nice to be a part of such a wonderful event.”

— Eastlake Council Vice President Michael Zuren on Christmas in July

Severino’s Restaurant and Lounge, located at 35125 Vine St. “This is the first year we’ve promoted something like this with multiple organizations.”

Partnering with Harvest Bible Chapel, Eastlake’s celebration of Christmas in July expanded across the city at various locations, including Mama Primozz Pizza and other businesses that decorated for the “holiday.”

Four additional local churches also held services.

The Eastlake Police Athletic League Community Center, the Eastlake Women’s Club, the Eastlake Public Library and local vendors were also part of the community involvement to celebrate the conceptual joy in July.

Due to medical and financial issues, the Titschingers

recently fell on hard times, Zuren said, and in cooperation with Whitely and Harvest Bible Chapel, the church the family attends, the city identified them as a family in need.

“The spirit of Christmas is a time of caring and compassion for our friends, family and neighbors, and we recognize the vital role nonprofit organizations and churches hold as public servants to their surrounding communities,” Zuren added. “We believe that the family is the fundamental building block for the longterm growth and success of society.

“We conclude every resident has a vested interest in the well-being of their community, an obligation to make positive contributions and a willingness to offer assistance to those in need. The city of Eastlake urges all citizens to join in outreach efforts in our community to support their neighbors in need with love,

compassion and encouragement.”

As the kids excitedly

showed one another their presents, Nick expressed his gratitude to Zuren, Whitely

and Gulley.

“I have to thank the entire city of Eastlake, too,” he said. “I’m almost in tears. We’re not used to this kind of generosity. It’s great. My kids are very thankful. This entire thing is just breathtaking.”

“The spirit of Christmas is a time of caring and compassion for our friends, family and neighbors, and we recognize the vital role nonprofit organizations and churches hold as public servants to their surrounding communities.”

— Eastlake Council Vice President Michael Zuren

Santa and Mrs. Claus deliver gifts to members of the Titschinger family on July 22 during Eastlake’s Christmas in July partnership with local businesses and community organizations. From left are Jayden, Jacob, Annalynn and Anthony.