Friends sponsor One in a MILL-ion event for Kirby Mill

Hey Mavis performing; Hofbrauhaus catering

It has been several years since the Richfield community has hosted a large fund-raising event like the One in a MILL-ion Celebration scheduled for Oct. 16 in the Lodge at the Richfield Heritage Preserve. The event celebrates the 100-year anniversary of the Kirby Mill and the funds raised will be used to continue to restore that mill.

The tailgate-themed, adults-only festivity will include Northcoast Americana band Hey Mavis, dinner catered by the renowned Hofbrauhaus, an open bar, Mill tours and a live auction. Attire is casual for this exclusive event sponsored by the Friends of Richfield Heritage Preserve.

Thom and Lisa Mandel are the event honorary chairs of the fundraiser. Thom is CEO of Akron’s Rubber City Radio Group and serves on the board of trustees for the Ohio Association of Broadcasters. He and Lisa have served as board chairs of United Way and have made generous donations to the local United Way organization. In 2018 United Way named its Akron headquarters the Thomas and Lisa Mandel Community Center. The Jewish Akron Organization has honored the Mandels for their leadership and generosity to the community. Lisa also volunteers for many other not-for-profit organizations including Bath Volunteers for Service and WITAN.

The Friends have previously raised and spent more than $200,000 to restore the century-old mill. An estimated $300,000 is still needed to complete the effort. According to Corey Ringle, Friends president, “We have had some wonderfully successful fundraisers in the past thanks to the community and the park’s supporters. We are excited for this next step in fundraising and restoring Kirby’s Mill to inspire young people and future solution finders!”

When asked about the event, Richfield Joint Recreation District board Chair Anita Gantner remarked, “Friends of RHP have an unparalleled commitment to and love for our park. Their work on and dedication to the Kirby Mill project is just the latest demonstration of that commitment. Please join us in our efforts to turn the Mill into an educational and multi-cultural destination.”

Reservations are $100 per person and may be purchased through the Friends website friendsofrhp.org. Seating is limited. Event sponsorships are available on-line at friendsofrhp.org/sponsor-one-in-a-mill-ion-celebration.html. ∞