Newcomerstown News: Journey's End Ministries mural dedicated to the late Ed Groff
A mural in memory of the late Ed Groff was recently created on the Journey’s End Ministries Building at 205 S. River St.
Groff along with Jim Marinucci, members of the Newcomerstown Church of the Nazarene, and former Pastor Mark Lail attended a Promise Keeper’s event in 1996. They came home with the plan to begin a soup kitchen and provide clothing for those in need at the church. It was not long until they were out of space, so a building was purchased on Main Street. Shortly after they were again in the same situation. Journey’s End services and those using them continued to grow. Thereafter, they moved to the current River Street location, where they have the adequate capacity for now and future progression. Thirteen area churches are presently a part of Journey’s End Ministries.Ed served as director for J.E.M. for several years, and he loved assisting and reaching out to people in need. He was also active in the community as he worked both Heller Tool and the General Electric plant from which he retired after 28 years. From there he became a police officer and dispatcher for the Newcomerstown Police Department, then retired once again. Ed was one of the first EMTs to become certified and join the fire department's scuba team. He served as captain, lieutenant, and fire chief. He enjoyed old car shows, hunting, and serving his Master.
"Ed was an Army veteran as well as a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. We were married for 55 years before his passing on Feb. 12, 2021, due to complications from COVID 19,” his wife Jody said.The scene in the mural, painted by Ed Davis of Waynesburg, was selected in Ed Groff’s memory as one of the three founding fathers of Journey’s End Ministries.
To learn more about Journey’s End, call 740-498-5772 during daytime hours on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday.
Historical society pays tribute to Harley Dakin
The Newcomerstown Historical Society paid tribute to Newcomerstown native and resident Harley Dakin, the society's vice president and historian, who recently died. They noted Harley’s many years of dedication and volunteer work for both museums. He was instrumental in bringing the Lenapa Diasora to the village. Officials thanked Harley for all he did while expecting nothing in return.
Basketball fundraiser is Sept. 23
The Newcomerstown High School boys basketball team’s Night at the Races fundraiser is Sept. 23, at the Newcomerstown Moose Lodge #1337. You can pick your horse for $20, and admission is $5 each. To reserve your horse, call Coach Troyer at 330-714-4745 or Coach Stahl at 330-340-2667. Food will be available at 6 p.m. and the first race will start at 7 p.m.
Music boosters seeks volunteers
The Newcomerstown Music Boosters is seeking adult volunteers to work the Lee Stadium concession stand during home events. To signup, go to the group's Facebook page or contact Cat Marlatt at 330-447-6364.
Parents meeting, meet the team
The fall sports parents meeting and meet the team for grades seven to 12 cheerleaders and band members will take place Aug. 11. The parent meeting will start at 5 p.m. followed by meet the team at 6 p.m., at Lee Stadium weather permitting. In case of inclement weather the events will be held in the high school gym. A varsity football scrimmage will also take place against Bridgeport at 7 p.m.
Newcomerstown Christ United Methodist Church Movie Night
A family Disney movie night will be held from 8:30 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 4, in the River of Life parking lot located, 648 Oak St. In case of rain, the movie will be held inside. There will be free popcorn and beverages.
To submit Newcomerstown highlights and events to this weekly column, email kkwilkin61@gmail.com
This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Newcomerstown News: Mural dedicated to the late Ed Groff
