Therapeutic martial arts demonstrations, a “tour” of a Painesville City Fire Department truck and a treasure trove of helpful resources to make local citizens’ lives easier and maybe even a bit more enjoyable will highlight a free Community Resource Fair. Hosted by Summit Academy Community School – Painesville, the family-focused event will take place Tuesday, May 25, 5-7 p.m. at the school, 268 N. State Street, Painesville.
Open to the public, the fair will showcase an abundant mix of exhibitors, demonstrations and free chances at gift basket raffles, including one for Lake Metroparks Farmpark admission for four.
Event-goers can expect to see representatives from the Eastern Lake County Chamber of Commerce, Experimental Aviation Association Chapter 5, Lake County 4-H, Lakeland Community College, Lake County Free Clinic, Laketran, Forbes House, American Heritage Girls & Trail Life for Boys clubs, Morley Library, Painesville Recreation Department, Lake-Geauga United Head Start, Christ Child Society of Western Reserve, Cradle 2 Crayons, Ariel Inspired Art Studio, Busy Bees Pottery and Art Studio, Karate Institute of Mentor, Signature Health, Girl Scouts of North East Ohio and many others.
The list of exhibitors continues to grow. Thanks to so many participating local organizations the school is hoping for a successful turnout, not only by its own families, but the community as a whole.
Shihan Joseph J. Bove, Executive Director of Therapeutic Martial Arts/Special Programs for Summit Academy, says attendees are in for an eye-opening experience as they learn about therapeutic martial arts and see it in action. Shihan Bove, a Crisis Prevention Master Trainer, describes the flagship therapeutic martial arts program as a pillar component of Summit Academy’s curriculum, which specializes in educating students who learn differently, such as those who are autistic or diagnosed with ADHD. He emphasizes that Summit Academy is not a karate school but utilizes the martial arts as a way for students to learn cross-lateral movements, which helps open up pathways in the brain, and helps students build self-esteem and respect for self and others.
“Once students leave the dojo [training area] and return to their academic classroom, their pathways are relaxed and open for academic achievement,” Shihan Bove explains.
Principal Frank Cheraso says the school looks forward to opening its doors to the public for this special event.
“I am excited to see this event unfold, especially after all the COVID restrictions. It appears many community agencies are eager to get out there and connect with families as demonstrated by many organizations responding and participating in our event,” Cheraso says.