Message from Mayor Garlich, July 2026

Hello Residents,
We completed our review of those who registered their residence for the America 250 Decorating Celebration. I, with help from Councilperson Carl Hornung and my wife, was personally able to canvas the Village and was impressed with the number of residents who made an effort to show their patriotism with lighting, banners, displays and flags. This is truly a remarkable year in our country’s history. 250 years of freedom.
I counted more than 300 flags being flown, and I probably missed some. Flags are mounted on mailboxes, flag poles and some are even formed from LED, and the flagship flag was a 53ft. by 35ft. flag painted in a back yard. Some of the displays took minimal effort while others took maximum, but regardless of effort it shows pride and love of country. (I will also comment, ‘some were very creative’)
Some of our businesses decorated their window fronts and buildings. I appreciate their effort to add to the patriotic theme of our community.
I wake up every day knowing, I am blessed to have spent my entire life in this free country and thank God and those who served for the life I enjoy and will never take for granted.
We will recognize our winners at the August council meeting.
Thank you for making a special year more special. Let’s continue to celebrate and be especially thankful for our great country as we move through the remainder of 2026 and beyond.
**Visit https://www.middlefieldohio.com/gallery/am-250-celebrate-middlefield/ to browse photos of patriotic displays. Thank you to Councilperson Bill Blue for contributing some great photos.
Ben Garlich
Mayor Village of Middlefield
bgarlich@middlefieldohio.com