News Flash

Read the June Fun Buzz here!

After more than four decades of dedicated service to the City of Stow, Stow Parks & Recreation Director Linda Nahrstedt retired on May 31, 2026. Linda’s career with the Parks & Recreation Department began 41 years ago as an intern, and through hard work, passion, and leadership, she rose to become the department’s director. Throughout her tenure, she helped shape the parks, programs, facilities, and community events that have become an important part of life in Stow.

Linda’s impact can be seen throughout the city, but one of her greatest legacies is the talented and dedicated team she leaves behind. Through her leadership and mentorship, she built a staff that works collaboratively and is well-positioned to continue serving the community for years to come.

“It has truly been the honor of a lifetime to serve the Stow community for the past 41 years,” said Nahrstedt. “Watching families grow through our programs and seeing the positive impact recreation can have on people’s lives has been the most rewarding part of my career. I am proud of what we have built together and confident that the department will continue to thrive for many years to come.”

“Linda’s dedication to Stow has left a lasting impact on our community,” said Mayor John Pribonic. “For 41 years, she has been a champion for the parks department by helping create the programs, facilities, and events that bring our residents together. Her leadership, vision, and commitment to public service have helped make Stow a better place to live, work, and play. We are grateful for her extraordinary service and wish her a happy and well-deserved retirement.”

The City of Stow extends its sincere appreciation to Linda for her extraordinary career and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.

Fun is in Full Bloom this May! #FuninStow

Stow’s Fourth of July Parade to Celebrate America, Community, and the Future with Grand Marshal “The AMP”

The City of Stow is excited to announce the return of its beloved Fourth of July Parade on Sat., July 4, 2026, stepping off at 10:00 AM along Kent Road. This year’s parade theme, “Celebrate America, Celebrate Community,” honors the people, traditions, organizations, and shared experiences that continue to shape Stow as our nation approaches America’s 250th anniversary. 

Adding to the excitement, the City proudly announces this year’s Grand Marshal: The AMP — Stow’s future outdoor amphitheater and gathering space that is already bringing the community together before construction is even complete.

“The AMP represents connection, celebration, creativity, and community spirit — values that perfectly align with what the Fourth of July Parade means to Stow,” said Mayor John Pribonic. “As we celebrate our nation’s history and look ahead to the future, The AMP symbolizes the next chapter of gathering together as a community.”

Currently under development at 1680 Norton Road, The AMP has already generated excitement through community pop-up events and public engagement initiatives designed to bring residents together and build momentum for the future venue. 

The annual parade remains one of Stow’s largest and most cherished traditions, drawing thousands of spectators and featuring community organizations, decorated floats, marching groups, businesses, performers, and patriotic displays. Parade organizers invite residents and participants to creatively embrace this year’s theme by showcasing what makes Stow and America strong: community.

The parade begins at the Stow Community Center/Target Plaza area and travels down Kent Road toward Holy Family Church. Community members are encouraged to arrive early, wear patriotic colors, and celebrate together with friends, family, and neighbors. 

Parade entry registration is currently open through June 5, 2026 or until full. Additional parade information, procedures, and event updates can be found at:  Stow Fourth of July Parade Information

Learn more about The AMP at:  Amphitheater | Stow, OH

Hop on board for adventure, fun, and entertainment with our upcoming Community Bus Trips! Open to all ages, these trips are a great way to relax, explore, and enjoy a day out with friends, family, or neighbors.

Upcoming trips include:

• Trader Joe’s & Crocker Park Shopping
• Portage Princess Cruise
• Disney’s The Lion King at KeyBank Theater
• Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley

Whether you’re looking for shopping, sightseeing, Broadway magic, or a little gaming excitement, there’s something for everyone!

Seats fill quickly — register today and join us for the fun!Contact Stow Parks & Recreation at (330) 689-5100 for details and registration information, or visit StowOhio.RecDesk.com.

UPDATE:  As of 1:30 PM today Bow Wow Beach is back Open.  Have a PAW-SOME DAY at the Park!

The City of Stow Parks & Recreation Department announces that SKiP Playground will be closed for the day on Monday, May 4 to allow for scheduled maintenance, fertilization, and a comprehensive safety inspection.

This temporary closure is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to providing a safe, clean, and enjoyable environment for all visitors. Crews will be performing routine upkeep to ensure the playground equipment and surrounding grounds remain in top condition for the community.

The playground is expected to reopen on Tuesday, May 5, weather permitting.

Residents are encouraged to plan accordingly and explore other nearby park amenities during this time.  Parks & Places | Stow, OH

For updates and additional information, please visit the City of Stow Parks & Recreation Department’s website or social media channels.

Buzzing into Spring - Let the #FuninStow Grow!

The City of Stow is excited to announce a series of accessibility-focused improvements to the SOAR Playground at Silver Springs Park, reinforcing the City’s commitment to inclusive, community-centered recreation.

The project will be completed in multiple phases. Phase 1, beginning immediately and continuing over the next three months, will focus on the older playground section. Improvements include the removal of outdated equipment, installation of a new surrounding sidewalk for improved accessibility, and the addition of new swings and a modern merry-go-round.

Phase 2, scheduled for completion within three to six months, will enhance the newer playground section with the replacement of rubber surfacing to ensure a safer and more accessible play environment.

Looking ahead, Phase 3, planned for 2027, will introduce an exciting new feature: a double zipline, further expanding inclusive play opportunities for children of all abilities.

“These upgrades reflect our ongoing commitment to providing accessible, engaging spaces for all members of our community,” said Mayor John Pribonic. “SOAR Playground is a special destination, and these improvements will ensure it continues to serve families for years to come.”

4/6/2026

Bow Wow Beach is open today!  

4/2/2026

Due to continued flooding, Bow Wow Beach Dog Park will be closed again today (Fri., April 3, 2026) for the safety of all visitors and their pups. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we wait for conditions to improve.

As construction begins on the City’s long-anticipated outdoor performance venue, the City of Stow is inviting the community to help keep the momentum going with a new series of pop-up events at the future home of The AMP, located at 1680 Norton Rd., Stow, OH 44224.  

Titled “The AMP: Building the Beat,” the seven-event pop-up series will take place on-site during the early construction phase and is designed to be simple, welcoming, and accessible for all ages. Events will be held in the parking lot area of the future amphitheater and will offer residents a chance to gather, connect, and celebrate progress—even before the first note is played.

“These pop-ups are about reminding the community that The AMP is no longer just an idea—it’s becoming a reality,” said John Pribonic. “After more than a year of planning and coordination, we’re excited to activate the space and invite residents to be part of the journey.”

Each pop-up will be short and informal, featuring family-friendly activities centered around kids building, playing, singing, dancing, and getting creative, along with small promotional giveaways. Events are designed to be easy to attend—residents can stop by for a few minutes or stay longer—and reflect the inclusive, community-focused spirit that will define The AMP once it opens.

Pop-up activities throughout the series will include interactive experiences, an open mic night for young performers, a pop-up dance party, children’s building activities, and creative play opportunities, and a “Dig into the AMP” kickoff celebration.

2026 Pop-Up Event Schedule

• Sunday, April 12, 2026 | 1:30–3:00 PM | “Dig into the AMP” Kickoff Pop-Up

• Wednesday, May 20, 2026 | 6:00–7:30 PM | “Build the Buzz” Pop-Up

• Tuesday, June 30, 2026 | 6:00–7:30 PM | “Kids Build the AMP” Pop-Up

• Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | 6:00–7:30 PM | “Mini Mic Moment” Pop-Up

• Wednesday, August 19, 2026 | 6:00–7:30 PM | “Dress-Up + Photo” Stage Pop-Up

• Wednesday, September 16, 2026 | 6:00–7:30 PM | “Dance Freeze Party” Pop-Up

• Wednesday, October 7, 2026 | 6:00–7:30 PM | “Chalk the Countdown” Pop-Up

Residents are encouraged to bring friends, bring their energy, and be part of building something special for the community.

For updates on The AMP project and the “Building the Beat” pop-up series, visit StowOhio.gov or follow the City of Stow on social media.

New sessions of Pilates and Yoga are starting soon. Whether you're looking to build core strength, improve flexibility, or simply carve out time to relax and reset, these classes are a great way to invest in your health and well-being.

We’re hopping into planning for our Fourth Annual Cocktails & Cottontails Adult Egg Hunt, and we’re looking for sponsors to help make this egg-ceptional night a success!

This sell-out 21+ event features live music, drinks, appetizers, and an egg-stra fun golf course egg hunt — and it’s a great way to showcase your business to our community.

Interested in becoming an EGG Sponsor?  Visit: Program: Sponsor:Cocktails and Cottontails-Adult Hunt

Let’s make this event egg-stra special together!

Fall in Love with Local Fun!

The February Fun Buzz is here and packed with some of our most popular upcoming events you won’t want to miss! From community favorites to exciting seasonal activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Stow Arts Commission is providing an open art call. The commission is seeking proposals from artists to provide artwork for vinyl wrapping of electrical traffic signal boxes. March 16, 2026, 5:00 pm Submission Deadline.

ORDER BANNER HERE 

Honor your 2026 high school graduating senior with a commemorative banner that will be displayed outside on the grounds at Stow City Center complex.Banners purchased through this program must be a part of the display at Stow City Hall Center through June 30, 2025. Banners may be picked up after July 7 and no later than July 31, 2026. (Stow City Hall Hours: M-F, 8:00am-4:30pm). Banners not retrieved by July 31, 2026 will be disposed of.Complete this registration and upload your digital photo during registration.

Cost of each banner = $65.00This program is open to 2026 graduating seniors that are Stow or Munroe-Falls residents no matter which school they attend.Orders must be received by April 6, 2026. NO LATE ORDERS WILL BE ACCEPTED, as this would delay the printing and installation timeline for ALL banners.

Due to the forecasted snowstorm, the City of Stow has announced that City of Stow Offices, Stow Municipal Court, and the Stow Community & Senior Center will be closed on Monday, January 26.

This decision has been made out of an abundance of caution and with the safety of City employees and the public in mind.

While facilities will be closed to the public, City employees will continue conducting business by responding to calls and addressing essential needs to ensure services remain available as conditions allow.

Residents are encouraged to monitor the City of Stow’s website and social media channels for updates regarding any additional weather-related information.

For emergencies, please call 911.

Stow Parks and Recreation is excited to announce that registration is open for a Community Bus Trip to see Water for Elephants at the Connor Palace Theater on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

This special outing marks the first official bus trip on the new “Stow on the Go” Parks and Recreation Bus, launching a new way for residents to travel together and enjoy cultural experiences beyond the city.

Water for Elephants tells the unforgettable story of a young man who, after losing everything, joins a traveling circus and discovers love, purpose, and a new beginning. Seen through the eyes of his older self, the story is a powerful reminder that life can begin again at any age.

The trip is open to all ages and includes round-trip transportation from Stow City Hall.

Trip Details:

• Date: Sunday, March 22, 2026

• Depart: 11:30 AM (Stow City Hall)

• Return: 4:30 PM (Stow City Hall)

• Cost: $75 (Stow Resident) | $77 (Non-Resident)

Space is limited. Register online at stowohio.recdesk.com or contact Stow Parks & Recreation at 330-689-5100 for more information.

This report reflects the dedication of our staff, partners, and volunteers who work together to provide welcoming spaces, engaging opportunities, and memorable experiences for residents of all ages.

She’s here — and she’s making a very festive debut! Our brand-new Parks & Recreation community bus is here!

With seating for up to 40 passengers, ADA accessibility, improved comfort and reliability, and a colorful wrap that captures our Fun in Stow spirit, this new bus brings fresh energy and excitement to community transportation and programming.

Throughout January and February, we will share opportunities to “Meet the Bus” at pop-up events at locations across Stow.

In March, “Stow on the Go” will be hitting the road for a full season of adventures, day trips, and outings.

With a bold new look and a bright future ahead, “Stow on the Go” is ready to carry our community into a fun and active year.

Merry Christmas, Stow — this one’s for you! 

’Tis the season to sparkle. ?? #FunInStow

The City of Stow is pleased to announce a major milestone in its long-term vision for expanded community entertainment and cultural programming. After months of positive and productive negotiations, the City has officially signed the purchase agreement for the property located at Norton Road and Darrow Road—the future home of Stow’s new outdoor amphitheater - The AMP.

This agreement represents a significant step forward not only for the City’s amphitheater project, but for the revitalization of the surrounding plaza. As part of the negotiated terms, the plaza owners, The Soclofs, have agreed to undertake substantial upgrades to the site, including improvements to the overall property and the recruitment of new restaurants and businesses. These enhancements will help support and complement the amphitheater, creating a vibrant, connected destination for residents and visitors.

“We are thrilled to reach this important milestone,” said Mayor John Pribonic. “This project has always been about creating new opportunities for community connection, live entertainment, and economic growth. Signing the purchase agreement brings us one step closer to making that vision a reality.”

With the agreement now finalized, the City will move into the next phase of the project: seeking competitive bids for the construction of the amphitheater. Design plans have been completed and ready for release, allowing the City to advance quickly into procurement.

Once a construction bid is awarded, the build is expected to begin when weather permits. A community groundbreaking ceremony is planned for early spring, marking the official start of construction and celebrating the collaborative work that brought the project to this point.

“Today marks an exciting new chapter for the City of Stow. The signing of this purchase agreement reflects our shared commitment—between City leadership and City Council—to creating vibrant spaces where our community can come together. The amphitheater will bring new energy, new opportunities, and unforgettable experiences to our residents. We are thrilled to see this vision moving forward and grateful for the teamwork that helped make it possible,” said Mayor John Pribonic.

The City of Stow will continue to share updates on progress, bid announcements, construction timelines, and future programming opportunities as they become available.

Sweater weather and thankful hearts #FunInStow

Visit our website for up-to-date information on a full array of Events!

• Glow with Stow Holiday Lighting Event
• Mayor's Mingle & Magical Lights Tour
• Santa's Mailbox
• Wine & Design
• Connect with Nature
• Community Yoga & NEW! Pilates Demo
• Stay Active, Stay Social Active Agers

.....And More!

Cooler days, hotter fun – #FunInStow
Visit our website for up-to-date information on a full array of Summer Events!

Felicity Baxter Achieves Eagle Scout Rank with Community-Focused Environmental Project.

Felicity Baxter’s Scouting journey began as a young girl in England, where she joined 1st High Lane as a Beaver Scout. When her family later moved to the United States, she was disappointed to find that, as a girl, she was unable to continue in the World Scouting Movement. After years of advocacy, girls were officially welcomed into Scouting America in 2019—a milestone that allowed Felicity to begin her path toward Eagle.

The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest achievement in Scouting America, a distinction earned by only about four percent of Scouts since the program’s founding in 1911. To reach this rank, Scouts must complete a rigorous review process, earn at least 21 merit badges, dedicate significant time to community service, and plan and lead a major service project from start to finish. Felicity officially earned her Eagle rank on March 5, 2025, and will be honored at a formal ceremony this September (Invitation Attached.)

Her Eagle project was inspired by an environmental science class in high school, where lessons on biodiversity, native plants, and sustainable farming sparked an idea: creating a seed library for the community. The Common Ground Seed Library will provide a shared space where community members can borrow, exchange, and donate seeds, along with seedlings and educational resources. Designed to encourage both novice and experienced gardeners, the project promotes sustainable practices, supports biodiversity, and helps residents learn to grow their own food while caring for the environment.

The Common Ground Seed Library will be located at the Stow Community Gardens (5070 Stow Road, Stow) and is expected to open for public use in the 2026 gardening season.

Join us for casual pickleball this fall on Stow’s brand-new courts (opened in 2024)! This free league is a fun way to get active, meet new people, and enjoy the game—whether you’re new to pickleball or already hooked.

#FuninStow is heating up! We are so excited for the Stow Summer Sunset Blast, coming up with our amazing end-of-summer fireworks spectacular! Check out this edition of the August Fun Buzz for more information and an array of #FuninStow Events!

Whether your expertise is in dance, art, music, fitness, marketing, graphics, or another area you’re passionate about—if you have a proven track record of success, we want to hear from you!

We welcome all proposals and resumes for consideration. Please note: submission does not guarantee acceptance, as selections will be based on community needs, scheduling, and program fit.

Bring your talent. Inspire our community. Help us make Stow an even more vibrant place to live, work, and play!

Application form and more information can be found on our website: Share Your Skills, Teach with Us! | Stow, OH.

UPDATE:  SKiP Playground maintenance has been postponed.  The playeround is open for play this morning!  

 SKiP Playground will be closed for Routine Maintenance on Thursday, August 7, 2025, from 7 AM - 12 PM.  Please enjoy another one of our beautiful parks during this time: https://stowohio.org/390/Parks-Places

The City of Stow is proud to welcome runners and spectators to Silver Springs Park on Saturday, July 26, as part of the Burning River Endurance Run, a nationally recognized trail race featuring 100-mile, 50-mile, marathon, and relay team events.

Runners will begin arriving through the park as early as 3:00 AM, with the park remaining active until approximately 10:00 PM. This high-energy, ultra-distance event brings endurance athletes from across the country to experience scenic trails, community support, and a challenging course that includes portions of Hudson’s bike trail, Silver Springs Park, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park region.

In Stow, the following park areas will be in use throughout the day:

• Leona Farris Lodge and parking lot
• Oaktree Shelter and parking lot
• SOAR parking lot
• Ballfields and Ballfields parking lot
• Bow Wow Beach parking lot
• The footbridge connecting the bike & Hike trail to Bow Wow Beach
• Bike & Hike trail between Silver Springs Park and Hudson

Visitors to the park should anticipate increased activity, temporary closures, and limited parking in the above areas. We encourage the community to come out and cheer on the athletes, while also planning accordingly if visiting for recreation or other events.

“The Burning River event showcases our park system and trail connectivity in an exciting way,” said City of Stow Mayor, John Pribonic. “It’s an honor to be part of such a prestigious endurance event, and we look forward to supporting the athletes and spectators who will be passing through.”

About the Burning River Race

Now in its 18th year, the Burning River Endurance Run is a premier ultramarathon hosted in Northeast Ohio, attracting elite runners and first-time ultra participants alike. The course winds through beautiful trail systems, scenic parks, and historic areas between Cuyahoga Falls and Akron, including the heart of Stow’s outdoor space at Silver Springs.

For more information about the race, visit www.burningriver100.org.

The city of Stow is pleased to announce the completion of the parking lot expansion and stormwater management system at the Stow Community & Senior Center, 5344 Fishcreek Rd., Stow. As part of ongoing efforts to improve accessibility and infrastructure for residents, the project added 21 new parking spaces, bringing the total to 95 standard spaces and 5 designated handicap-accessible spaces.

In addition to expanded parking, a modern stormwater drainage system was installed to improve runoff management and support environmental sustainability. Final lighting installation is scheduled to be completed this week, enhancing safety and visibility for all visitors.

“We’re proud to have completed this important project that improves access to community resources,” said John Pribonic, Mayor, City of Stow.  “The added parking and stormwater upgrades will make a real difference for the seniors and residents who participate in the Community and Senior Center activities."

Visitors to SKiP Playground will now be greeted with a burst of color and creativity, thanks to new art wraps installed on the playground's restroom doors. The installation, part of a community-driven beautification initiative, brings playful, family-friendly artwork to one of the park's most-used facilities.

The vibrant designs were created to reflect the spirit of SKiP Playground—welcoming, imaginative, and inclusive. Featuring nature-inspired patterns, whimsical characters, and bold color palettes, the wraps add an artistic touch that enhances the playground’s atmosphere and encourages creativity among its young visitors.

“We wanted to make even the most functional parts of the playground feel like part of the experience,” said John Pribonic, Mayor, City of Stow. “These art wraps make the space more inviting and enjoyable for families, and they’re a great example of how small changes can make a big impact.”

It is one of several initiatives aimed at promoting public art and improving community spaces throughout the city.

Check out this edition of the July Fun Buzz for more information and an array of #FuninStow Summer Events:

• Summer Sunset Blast
• Special Back to School Kids Concert on the Green
• Pop Up in the Parks
• Connect with Nature
• Flow & Connect Community Yoga

.....And More!

 https://conta.cc/46cm6s2

The Stow Community & Senior Center will be closed from Fri., July 11 through Wed., July 16 to complete the parking lot construction.  All registered programs during this time will take place at Stow City Hall (3760 Darrow Rd.) instead.

The Stow Arts Commission is providing an open art call for Phase V of the Traffic Signal Box City Beautification Project. The commission is seeking proposals from artists to provide artwork for vinyl wrapping of electrical traffic signal boxes.  Each box varies in size and design (vents, access doors etc…) but are an average of 60 x 40 x 27 inches. 

Boxes are located along route 59 (Kent Road), Fishcreek Road, Hudson Drive and Steels Corners Road.

Upon acceptance, each artist will be assigned a box and the measurements.  They will also be made aware of the printer’s digital file requirements.  Artists are encouraged to physically go look at their assigned box to ensure their content fits appropriately, taking into account location of vents, handles, etc.

Artwork may be panoramic around the box, or four separate images on each side of the box.

We are seeking bright, vibrant and colorful art. 

Two dimensional paintings, drawings, designs and digital art will be acceptable submissions.

The submitted art will be digitalized and screened onto vinyl, which will be wrapped around a traffic signal box.

The hard deadline to apply for this time sensitive project is by 5:00 pm on March 28, 2025.

The selection committee will review completed applications (see application materials below) and notify selected artists, via email, by April 14, 2025.

Traffic Box Phase V Art Submission

March 28, 2025 5:00 pm:  Deadline for submission 

April 14, 2025:  Artists notified via email

May 9, 2025:  Final digital art due to Up Front Art

July and August:  Installation complete

Terms

Eligibility and Requirements:

Applications are open to North East Ohio artists.

Artwork must be in a 2 dimensional medium.

Artwork must be bright, colorful, and visually appealing from a distance.

Artwork must be deemed appropriate for public, family-friendly viewing.

Happy Holidays!

Highlighted in this newsletter…
* Stow Community & Senior Center Grand Opening
* National Lego Day
* Wine & Design: Crushed Glass Resin Tray
* Connect with Nature: Whose Shadow?
* Yoga at the Lodge Winter Session
and much more!

Ohio's Law on Fireworks

With the fireworks law that went into effect on July 1, 2022, we wanted to remind our community what is permissible under the law.  Please see the attached flyer to learn more.  You can access the Ohio Department of Commerce fireworks fact sheet here. 

Ohio's Law on Fireworks

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With the MyAccount feature, you can customize your viewing experience, sign up for notifications, and engage in information you care about. Check out Notify Me today!

With the MyAccount feature, you can customize your viewing experience, sign up for notifications, and engage in information you care about. Check out Notify Me today!