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Proud Member Of The Observer Media Family Of Community Owned Newspapers & Websites Volume 2 • Issue 4 • April, 2010 Vote Yes On Issue ? The Right Time To Do The Right Thing by Daniel P. McCarthy maybe, in some cases, for the Education is the Public. We all there are other direct ways to and as best as I can remem- Our Country seems to be first time in a long while. One of find ourselves very busy these have a say in the process, and ber, I voted for J. Kevin Kelly going through the process of these very important institutions days just trying to make ends by far the most critical activity and others, and there lies the taking a good hard look at the is that of Public Education. For meet and finding basic happi- is voting. I am a faithful voter, continued on page 12 naked truth when it comes me, the way I feel, and I am guilty ness in our lives, so it becomes to certain institutions and the as charged, the most crucial all too easy to lose focus on our issues associated with them, ingredient missing from Public civic responsibility as citizens Do You Have What It Takes To Be of a nation who’s government rests in the hands of the people The Next Parma Area Idol? to make sure that our chosen representatives maintain our public functions in a way that is honest, effective, and cost effi- cient. Honestly, who has time to attend every School Board meeting, especially if they don’t even have children in the sys- tem anymore, or ever even did? I’ll admit that I have never even been to a School Board meeting, but I also know that
Dump No Waste, Drains to Creek by Lisa Zaremba be Polly Ann Zaremba – Dudek. by Sean Brennan tion in our waterways does not droppings and garbage before The Parma Area Chamber She has been a professional singer Councilman Ward 2 come from industries or facto- depositing it in streams. of Commerce and the Parma and musician all her life, touring ries (point source pollution). Storm drains along many Rib ‘N Rock presents the Sec- the U.S. and Canada for over 15 Most people want to pro- Instead, 80% of the pollution neighborhood streets collect ond Annual Parma Area Idol years as lead vocalist for the Band tect their local streams, rivers, affecting streams comes from the contaminated water and Contest. It will take place on the Clevelend. The band was recently and lakes. They value their nonpoint sources, such as storm dump it directly into streams, Main Stage June 10 -13, during inducted into the Rock and Roll clean water as a drinking drains. This means that pollu- without being treated first. the Rib ‘N Rock Rib Cook-Off, Hall of Fame, and is featured the source and for recreation, as tion does not come from a single Storm drains are merely pipes and is open to all amateur per- Guinness Book of World Records well as fish and wildlife habitat. point, but from storm water of waste transfer – from our formers 13-30 years old. Nearly for playing the longest rock con- Did you know that these same (rainwater) running across streets to our creeks. In fact, 30 talented contestants turned cert in history, 100 hours and 30 people are often responsible the land, picking up motor oil, much of Parma falls into the out last year and they are hop- minutes helping to bring the Hall for the contamination of local insecticides, fertilizers, road ing to increase that number this of Fame to Cleveland, Ohio. And waterways? Most of the pollu- salts, grass clippings, leaves, pet continued on page ?10 year. “Choosing a winner was let’s not forget the “Simon” of the very difficult last year, the level group Ken Dudek. He is from the of talented performers that came Cleveland Management Group, a out was amazing, I would hate to professional guitar player, singer be a judge,” said Lisa Zaremba, with a top ten single in 1966 Chamber Executive Director. which was No. 8 on Billboard That duty will go to a professional for 6 weeks. He was also a band panel of judges that includes manager for over 30 years. He has Jerry Colosimo, a local favorite worked with Mercury Records and graduate from Valley Forge here in Cleveland and Northeast High School, Colosimo has been Ohio supplying tour support for singing in the Cleveland area for such acts as Elton John, Jon Bon over 23 years. Also judging will continued on page 9 State Issue 1 On May 2010 Primary Ballot by Timothy DeGeeter will continue to create high- Third Frontier Renewal tech, good paying jobs for –State Issue 1 on may 2010 Ohioans.The Third Frontier primary ballot Job creation is a program within the Ohio and retention is currently a Department of Development number one priority in the leg- that was created in 2002 with islature. Ohio’s Third Frontier a 10-year initial life and a $1.6 Community volunteer Carl Sneed and Councilman Sean Brennan complete a storm drain stencil on Program is one key initiative Theota Avenue. that, if approved by voters, continued on page 4 Page 2 The Parma Observer April, 2010
Parma Observer Parma Symphony Orchestra Concert Sunday May 2nd by Joe Germana Institute of Music, where his principal The orchestra in it’s 41st season their children. All tickets are avail- The Parma Symphony Orches- instructor is Antonio Pompa-Baldi. consists of 70 members of all walks able at the door beginning at 2:30 PM. tra will present a concert on Sunday, He holds degrees in piano performance of life from all over the entire Greater The Parma Symphony Orchestra is a May 2nd 2010 at 3:00 PM at Valley from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Cleveland area. They meet weekly for self-supporting community orchestra Forge High School Auditorium located Hopkins University, the Cleveland rehearsals and present at least four in cooperation with the Parma City at 9999 Independence Boulevard in Institute of Music and the University of concerts annually. General admission Schools. For more information see our Parma Heights. The concert will Southern California Thornton School is $8 for adults and $5 for students and web-site www.parmasymphony.org or include Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony #5” of Music. Former teachers include senior citizens. Family passes are avail- call our Business Manager Joe Ger- and Rachmaninoff’s “Piano Concerto Yong Hi Moon, Daniel Shapiro, and able for families of up to 2 adults and mana 440-882-2012. #3” featuring piano soloist Alexander Antoinette Perry. In addition, Mr. Wasserman. Wasserman has performed in lessons A native of Oak Park, Califor- and master classes for Sergei Babayan, Dog Show Handling Classes Are Back! nia, Alexander Wasserman grew up Henri Brassard, Edward Francis, in a musical family, and began formal Dai Uk Lee, Richard Raymond, Paul piano studies with Suzanne Julian, Schenly, and Uriel Tsachor. herself a protege of renowned pianist Alexander Wasserman is repre- and teacher Jakob Gimpel. sented by Ingrassia Artists. For more Mr. Wasserman maintains an information see: www.alexanderwas- active concert schedule, with recent serman.com. For booking information, performances in the cities of Balti- see www.ingrassiaartists.com more, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, La Jolla, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Santa Barbara. As recitalist, chamber musician, and orchestral soloist, his performances have been broadcast on television and classical radio stations, including live Ridgewood Drive) - right accross from performances of concertos by Liszt and by Kathy Szomoru Wallmart & Parmatown Mall. Rachmaninoff. Additionally, he has My name is Kathy Szomoru and for There are two classes per evening. been heard in chamber performances over thirty years I have owned and shown The earlier class runs from 6:30 - 7:15. on Los Angeles’s premier classical radio champion dogs. I am now an AKC judge, It is geared towards the beginner enthu- station, KUSC 91.5 FM. Most recently, and I am pleased to offer my own dog siast, with lots of instruction. The later his performance of works by Beethoven show handling tips! I am currently teach- class runs from 7:30 - 8:15. It is basically and Chopin on the “Dame Myra Hess” ing classes to adults and children 8-18 a run thru, but does have instruction - concert series was aired on Chicago’s (junior handlers) wanting to learn to show as needed. All breeeds are welcome. television channel 25, and radio station their own dogs to win, while showing in In order to give everyone the WFMT 98.7 FM. the same ring as professional handlers. attention they need, classes are limited Mr. Wasserman is currently in Summer classes will begin again to 8 people per session. the Doctor of Musical Arts program on May 18, 2010, and will run until To book your reservation or for in piano performance at the Cleveland Mr. Wasserman September 14, 2010. Classes will be held again in The All Saints Episco- more information, please contact me at pal Church parking lot. The church 216.661.8360, or email me at is located at 8911 West Ridgewood [email protected] Craft Show and Flea Bazaar Drive, Parma, Ohio (Corner of Ames & May 15 at Tri-C West by Randi Hansen Western Campus Student Govern- Cuyahoga Community College ment. All proceeds will benefit the (Tri-C) invites all bargain hunters, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. crafters and others to shop and/or sell If you are a seller interested in reserving a table or for more informa- their wares at this year’s craft show and The Parma Observer is a community owned and operated citizen based tion, please call 216-987-5430. Tables flea bazaar. The bazaar will be held news source. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the are $20. Admission and parking is free on Saturday, May 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 views and opinions of The Parma Observer staff or our advertisers. p.m. at the Western Campus, located at for all shoppers. Refreshments will be 11000 Pleasant Valley Road in Parma. available for purchase. 11180 Snow Road, Parma, Ohio 44130 This event is sponsored by the 440.884.7625 • http://parmaobserver.com Advisory Board Writers Craig Czepczynski Lisa Zaremba Timothy DeGeeter Randi Hansen Randi Hansen David Lincheck Joe Germana Lisa Zaremba Jack Marschall Kathy Szomoru George Salo Jim Griffith Kathy Szomoru Kate Rapnicki Brian O’Donnell Publisher & Editor Patty Knox Daniel P. McCarthy Kelly Cooper Lisa Draganic Design and Production Craig Czepczynski Joseph Finding AGS Design Karen Velbeck Sean Brennan Advertising Sales Robert Rua 440.884-7625 Millissa Manco Gene Lovasy Michele Bizzi Laura Watson
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Parma News Dozens Of Area Residents Helped By Parma Career Expo by Jack Marschall the dots, so to speak, for those individ- The first-ever Career Expo hosted by uals who do not have the skill sets to the City of Parma was declared a big success reenter this constantly changing econ- by Parma Treasurer Anthony Zielinski. omy,” said Parma Treasurer Anthony The public was invited to attend Zielinski. “The experts who we invited the Expo March 18 at the Donna Small- distributed materials and provided wood Activities Center. Experts in the tools and ideas that many people the field of job training and retraining have been searching for. I would not were available to help unemployed and hesitate to host another Career Expo at underemployed area residents gain new some point in the future.” skills to help them reenter the work- The Parma Career Expo fea- force. A steady stream of interested tured employment experts from residents represented a wide range of Cuyahoga Community College, Parma age levels, from college students to indi- City Schools Community Education, viduals looking for a new career after Parma Adult Education Services, Bry- retirement or being laid off. ant & Stratton, Polaris Career Center, Parma Treasurer Anthony Zielinski listens to residents attending Parma’s first-ever “I was extremely pleased that we Employment Connection Career Cen- Career Expo on March 18. were successful in helping to connect ter and United Way 2-1-1.
nored to be recogn - is ho ized - 20 Best
Community Hospitals in AmeriCA
Becker’s Hospital Review, March/April 2010
Call us for a free physiCian referral at 440-743-4900.
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Parma Schools Dental Clinic at Normandy High School Keeps Patients Smiling by Kate Rapnicki bara Zindroski, along with the dentist, Dr. How many of you can say you Wolnik. They want to support the schools, have been getting satisfactory service and encourage the young people to pursue from one place every year since 1991? their goals in their vocation. Maria told me I’m guessing the answer would be not she wants to give the cosmetology depart- many of us. Sally Zuccaro claims she ment a try next! The patients aren’t the has. Sally has been coming to Nor- only ones that are satisfied with the ser- mandy High School’s Dental Clinic vice, the students couldn’t be happier with every year since 1991, and she couldn’t their class and the opportunities that are be happier with the service. She loves waiting for them right out of high school. Junior Sam Henry-Burdette takes Dentists like Dr. Wolnik is one of the the volunteer dentist, the teacher, and Merna Awad, Amanda Klemm, and Kristi instruction from his teacher and gets a reasons that 98 year old Sally Zuccaro especially the students. Did I mention Niznick all told me how they love the class hands on experience. has been coming to Normandy’s Dental she is ninety-eight years old? and their teacher. “She can’t retire yet!” Clinic since 1991. The dental program at Normandy agreed the three girls. They told me their High School is a vocational program that teacher is definitely nice, but not afraid to trains the students to eventually become give them constructive criticism. Amanda a certified dental assistant once they pass wants to continue her education to be the state test. Their junior year of high an EFDA (Expanded Functions Dental school they spend learning all the basics Assistant), Kristi wants to be a hygienist, from their teacher, Ms. Barbara Zindro- and Merna’s goal is to eventually become a ski. There senior year they will acquire dentist. After spending just a couple min- an internship with a dental clinic of their utes in the dental room, I have no doubt choice, and then will take their state test. that everyone will be leaving with a smile I got the opportunity to see exactly how on their face. Junior Kristy Niznick takes the blood Normandy’s dental teacher, Barb the students get hands on learning by sit- pressure of patient Rosemary Zuccaro Zindroski gives the students instruction. ting in on their dental clinic. Normandy has been having dental clinics since 1988. I was able to interview State Issue 1 On May 2010 Primary Ballot students and patients on how the dental continued from page 1 more than a 10 to one return on their of total grant money was awarded to clinics work and what they are receiving investment.That means from 2003 to Northeast Ohio-based companies and from the experience. A volunteer den- billion commitment in investments to 2008, an investment of $681 million research organizations from 2002- tist comes in from his/her regular job to support technology in fields such as of state expenditures resulted in over 2009. Just recently, here in Parma, it clean the teeth of the patients and give the biomedical, advanced and alternative $6.6 billion of statewide economic was announced that GrafTech Inter- students a hands on experience. Dr. Ken energy. Just last week, the Ohio Depart- impact. The program was set to expire national was awarded a $915,000 grant Wolnik is currently volunteering with the ment of Development announced in 2012. In response, both democrats for an advanced technology project. program, and Dr. Anthony Silvestro, Dr. that since the program’s inception in and republicans, including myself, GrafTech has also garnered a num- Craig Vinkovich, Dr. Mark Kozlowski, 2002, it has helped create 55,000 jobs recently voted with overwhelming ber of awards in past years including: Dr. Chester Bizga, Dr. Timothy Bizga, Dr. in Ohio and has assisted in the cre- support to place a $700 million, four- $973,154 n 2008 for a fuel cell pro- Milan Yalcovich, Dr. Kimberly Stopar, ation, attraction, and capitalization of year renewal of Ohio’s Third Frontier gram, $7,945,465 in 2007 for a research and Dr. Ed Glowski have all volunteered more than 600 businesses. According Program on the May 4 ballot. If met and commercialization program, and for Normandy in the past. I spoke with to an independent evaluation, over the with voter approval, the program will $602,044 in 2005 for a fuel cell pro- Sally Zuccaro’s daughters Marie Elena past seven years Ohio’s Third Frontier place Ohio at the forefront of high-tech gram. I urge you to vote yes on Issue and Rosemary Zuccaro who explained created over $2.4 billion in employee research and innovation. Northeast 1 in support of Ohio’s Third Frontier to me why they keep coming back every wages and benefits.The report also Ohio could especially benefit from this Program this May. year. They both agreed that they love the revealed that taxpayers were seeing program, since nearly half the amount friendly students and the teacher, Bar- Cuyahoga Public Library Events All programs are free and open to the public. Registration is required for some programs. To register, call the host branch or visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org. National Poetry Month is celebrated every April by libraries, schools and poets Parma-Ridge Branch across the nation through poetry readings, book displays and special events. Dur- 5850 Ridge Road / 440.888.4300 ing this month we are reminded of America’s rich poetic heritage. There’s such an incredible array of poetry that’s out there waiting to be read. Mother’s Day Scrapbooking Workshop To find a National Poetry Month program at a branch near you, visit www. Grades 5 & up / Registration required. cuyahogalibrary.org/PoetryMonth.aspx. You bring the pictures (4 to 6) and we’ll provide the paper, supplies and tools to try your hand at scrapbooking. Saturday, May 8th / 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. Parma-South Branch 7335 Ridge Road / 440.885.5362 Parma-Snow Branch 2121 Snow Road / 216.661.4240 Preschool Art Show Please join us for the 3rd annual Preschool Art Show. The show features the Résumé & Cover Letter Workshop works of local preschoolers. The show will be open during library hours when the Need to update your résumé? This workshop is for you. meeting room is not in use. Tuesday, May 11th / 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Landscapes, Landmarks & Legacies: An Overview of Lake View Cemetery Opening Reception Refreshments will be served. Cleveland has a rich history and Lakeview Cemetery is one of its most interesting Saturday, May 1st / 3:00 p.m. areas.
Art Show Wednesday, May 12th / 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Saturday, May 1st – Friday, May 7th / during library hours
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Parma Observer Lies, Damn Lies, and Statistics by Brian O’Donnell problem is “you just can’t fire these ing and the economy was booming. are a very important key to economic Recently I have been engaging in people for no reason.” As if to imply Paychecks were large enough for us recovery across the board in the an exciting and challenging hobby. I that firing a worker without cause is to purchase all the goods and services United States today. A respectable like to call it “Network News Roulette.” a good thing. Game over. Now with we produced right here in the good living wage, heath insurance, pension The game is very easy to play, however, the television turned off I wanted to old U.S. of A. Good pay equaled more and annuity contributions, supe- I never seem to score very high. The digest what I had just heard. purchases. More purchases equaled rior training and safety standards, way to play is to tune into any newscast Government workers make 45% more jobs. In 1955 more than one and protection from unjust firings on any television station and then see more than private sector workers. third of working Americans belonged are just a few reasons to belong to a how long you can watch without being What the report was really saying was to a union that gave them the bar- labor union. Some in the non-union overwhelmed with the urge to smash that union workers have better ben- gaining power to collect bigger pay workforce may find themselves in a your television screen with the heavi- efits, better health insurance, better packages. The increased pay spilled situation where joining a union does est household item that is within reach. retirement savings plans, and better over into the non-union sector since not seem like a possibility. To them I Elvis liked to use a shotgun, but that is job security than that of non-union employers had to be competitive to say do not give up. Call a local union how you play the game when you are workers. These are facts that hap- keep and to recruit the most skilled hall for organizing information. the king. My current record is around pen to be true and I can verify these workers from the labor pool. The cog Others in the non-union workforce three minutes, but my average score facts on a personal level because I am that kept the U.S. economic engine are simply anti-union. To them I say runs somewhere around ninety sec- a proud member of the International running smoothly, the middle class, good luck. I am not trying to force my onds. Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. was well oiled. In recent years, with views on anyone who does not want In my latest round of Network The numbers in the report were pre- the decline of union membership, to be helped. Just remember that as News Roulette I came across the sented in a way as to besmirch the that same cog has become worn and unions raise the living standard for Fox Networks’ “Fox and Friends.” pay and the benefits that the aver- rusted resulting in a sputtering and its’ membership, the non-union sec- As I tuned in the show was doing age union employee enjoy. Why take untimely breakdown of the once tor will also enjoy an elevation of its’ an outro teaser heading into a com- this stance? Shouldn’t the question powerful U.S. economic engine. standard. Yet many in this group will mercial break. The teaser wanted be why the average public sector Smaller numbers of unionized still bash labor unions. I do have one me to stay tuned for a story on how employees ( code for non-union) do workers means less bargaining power. request for the union bashers. Please government workers are grossly over- not enjoy these same benefits in their Less bargaining power leads to lower refrain from putting down labor paid in comparison to private sector wage and compensation packages for wages. Lower wages mean fewer pur- unions on your weekends. Because, workers. I decided to wait through doing similar work? chases, which in turn leads to fewer after all, we are the ones that gave you the commercial break and check out If we look back 50 years or so the jobs. So it could be concluded that that two day weekend. this intriguing Fox News report. For American middle class was expand- unions and union membership drives those of you playing Network News Roulette at home, the clock stops while the news shows are in commer- cial break. No cheating! A Savvy Situation I have always been wary and by Craig Czepczynski aware of the potential misuse of When the owner of a local salon was statistics. These concerns were val- pondering where to open their doors, idated by a college professor I had the location was paramount. Would it who maintained that when dealing be in Bay Village? Could the East Side with numbers and percentages you be a better fit?? Adam Bechler, born and have “ lies, damn lies, and statistics.” rasied in Parma, decided upon the inter- So when Fox and Friends returned section of Ridge and Snow Roads. The from commercial and began their area has not seen a full service salon that report stating that private sector was this chic and yet practical. employees are paid, on an average, Now going on it’s third year and 45% less than government work- under new management, the place ers my full attention was grabbed. I has a brand new feel, and a great deal did not want to be caught off guard of credit for that goes to Salon Man- by the statistics that were sure to ager Brandie Shackelton; her energy back up this claim. Then the screen is felt from the moment you walk into showed a chart breaking down the the salon. Professionally trained staff compensation between the two sec- make you feel comfortable and hip. tors of the work force. I scanned the This is definitely not the salon of the numbers as the reporter droned on past. Stylist’s work stations are amply about the facts that were displayed arranged in this large room that opens on the screen. The difference in base up with high ceilings and a “holly- pay was significant but nowhere near wood” feel. Full salon services are 45% as originally claimed in the available, including airbrush makeup teaser. There was, however, a huge to give you that glamorous look once fresh fruit and mimosas will start you business, this savvy situation is for you! disparity in health care benefits, reserved only for movie stars! off with marking the special occasion. Located at 5784 Ridge Road in Parma pension plans, and holiday pay. My Bridal packages allow you to bring Plenty of parking at the rear of the build- with new convenient hours and specials. initial thought upon seeing the dif- the Bride and her party for a hair and ing for limos to whisk you away...letting Call 440-842-6256 for an appointment, ferences was this is not a comparison make up session that will truly add to Savvy do the work while you relax! or visit them on the web at www.thesav- of private sector versus government, her big day. A catered breakfast with If you would like to support local vysalon.com this was a clear case of union ver- sus non-union. Before I had fully developed this theory the reporter chimed in that the disparity of the When It Rains....You’d Better Have An Umbrella! numbers reflected in the study were by Craig Czepczynski caused, in large part, by the fact that An umbrella policy can offer you the peace of mind that one needs in today’s highly litigous society. Since writing an insur- most government workers were part ance article in an earlier edition of The Parma Observer, I have received several questions which I am all too happy to answer. A of some collective bargaining agree- personal umbrella policy protects the insured for any liability issues above and beyond your policy limits for your auto, home, ment. I had now been tuned in for boat, business, etc. This type of coverage, like most insurance policies, offer several different options...thus no two company’s almost two full minutes. I was sure policies are alike. Some include defense costs, some do not. Others may have a retention (deductible) while others have none. I could break my personal record in Examples of people who should should consider a liability umbrella policy include: households with youthful drivers, people my game of newscast roulette. Then who need to protect their savings or nest egg, and business owners in general. A qualified insurance agent can help you assess the reporter stated that the real the situation. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]
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Parma Education EL/CIVICS STUDENTS EXCEL by Kelly Cooper dents’ English skills which will help them The Parma ABLE (Adult Basic and find jobs.” Lena Westfall said she is very Literacy Education) Program has earned grateful and shared, “I have learned a lot an Exemplary rating from the state of of information about America and felt Ohio for the fourth year in a row!! This the state research project was very inter- award-winning program serves the esting.” Maryann Bilska likes to come to community well by preparing adults class because she has fun and is improv- to transition to post-secondary educa- ing her English at the same time. She is tion/training and employment. GED learning about America, its cultures and Test Preparation classes, Success Work- traditions. Andrii Samar enjoys com- shops, and ESOL (English for Speakers ing to the EL/Civics class because it has of Other Languages) classes are offered helped improve his skills of reading, to assist adults in making a smooth tran- writing, listening and speaking English sition. This year, an exciting new facet, and has helped him discover many new the EL/Civics Program, has been added and interesting details about the USA. for adult ESOL students. The new EL/ Zeina Nader enjoys the new friends she Civics Program is funded through a has made in the EL/Civics class as they state and federal grant. The program all learn to write and speak English while provides a wonderful opportunity for help improve their speaking and listen- project-based activities completed in the learning about America. There are three adult ESOL students to practice their ing skills and their reading and writing computer labs. Community field trips convenient locations offering the free English in authentic ways. Students are skills. There is also a focus on improv- provide hands-on experience in learning EL/Civics classes for adults: involved in classroom conversations to ing student technology skills through about US customs, government, history, * CCPL Parma-Ridge Branch 5850 safety, and health care. Volunteering in Ridge Road on Wednesday mornings the community is also a vital part of this Instructor: Debbie Holley, Assis- unique program. The FREE EL/Civics tant: Mary Kay Chambers, Computer classes are held in a relaxed atmosphere Instructor: Gene Zayac and have been very successful as students * Valley Forge High School 9999 improve not only their English skills, but Independence Blvd. on Wednesday also skills that will help them understand evenings more about America and everything Instructor: Kelly Cooper, Assis- associated with living and working in tant: Regina Krysiak, Computer this great country. EL/Civics student, Instructor: Gene Zayac Constancia Scharff, states, “Adults of dif- * Merrick House-West 3167 Fulton ferent nationalities come to the EL/Civics Road on Tuesday and Thursday mornings class to learn about the United States of Instructor: Christine Lee, Assis- America, to learn to speak English and to tant: Mary Kay Chambers, Computer prepare for the US Citizenship Test.” John Instructor: Gene Zayac If you are inter- Covic, “Enjoys learning about the history ested in participating in an EL/Civics and government of our country and feels class, please call (440) 885-4877. this class will help improve many stu-
Parma CS ABLE Families And Schools Together Provides GED Program “Families and Schools Together, State Road Elementary and Parkview F-A-S-T” is a song that frequently First Step Preschool. by Karen Velbeck the practice test are an indication as to echoes through many of the Parma Over the past ten years Parma City The Parma City School District the readiness of the prospective exam- City School District’s elementary School District has graduated over is designated as an Official GED Test inees to take the Official GED Test. school hallways. 1,000 families from the F.A.S.T pro- Center by the Ohio Department of The GED Practice Test is provided For the past ten years the Parma gram. Families and Schools Together Education. The General Educational through Parma City Schools District’s City School District has been fortunate has been so important to the fami- Development (GED) Test provides Adult Basic Literacy and Education to be able to offer Families and Schools lies in our community because it has many adults who did not finish high (ABLE) Grant, and thus, is offered free Together (F.A.S.T.) to numerous fam- opened up communication between school an opportunity to earn an Ohio of charge to adults in the community. ilies throughout our community. the family and school, strengthened High School Equivalence Diploma. The Parma ABLE Grant also provides Families and Schools Together is a child/parent relationships and focused Like a regular high school diploma, the quality educational programming for prevention program that encour- on parent empowerment. Due to the GED diploma gives the diploma holder adults as they strive to reach their goals ages interaction and communication F.A.S.T program parents and children the opportunity to obtain employ- in their roles as learners, family mem- between families, their community have developed strong friendships and ment, to apply for career advancement, bers, citizens, and workers. GED Test and their school. It is an eight week continued those relationships long to pursue higher education goals, or Preparation classes are offered at six program that offers relationship and after the program has ended. Parents to reach a personal goal. Approxi- area locations. The five content areas skill building activities in a fun and feel more comfortable getting involved mately 18% of Ohio’s population who of Language Arts – Reading, Language energetic environment. With today’s in their child’s school and feel more are 25 years and older are without a Arts – Writing, Math, Science, and families’ busy schedules F.A.S.T allows connected to their community. Chil- high school diploma. The Official GED Social Studies are included in the GED one night a week of dedicated “family dren’s behaviors have also improved Test is offered approximately six times curriculum. In addition to this core time” that includes a family meal. both at school and at home. each month at five area locations. The curriculum, this year a GED-IT class Families and Schools Together FASTWORKS is a continuation Parma GED Test Center administered is being offered. This class provides program is grant funded through the of F.A.S.T that keeps families con- 710 tests in 2009, 712 in 2008, and 587 supplemental information to the GED Alcohol Drug Addiction and Mental nected after the program has ended. in 2007. Already this year, 102 tests Test Preparation class. Technology Health Services Board of Cuyahoga FASTWORKS allows families to stay have been administered. Many adults skills are integrated into this curricu- County. F.A.S.T. is a special pro- connected by providing family based take the GED Practice Test prior to lum thus empowering students with gram because it is offered in very few activities coordinated by F.A.S.T. par- taking the Official GED Test. The prac- the skills necessary to be successful as communities throughout Cuyahoga ents. tice test is administered regularly at they transition to post secondary and/ County and Parma is fortunate to be If you would like to learn more eight area locations. This test is struc- or employment after achieving their one of those communities. F.A.S.T is about the F.A.S.T program or would tured exactly as the Official GED Test GED credentials. As noted by Lynn currently offered at Hanna Elementary, like to come and observe a session except that the Official Test has twice Thoreau Park Elementary, Ridgebrook please contact one of the F.A.S.T school the number of questions. The results of continued on page 7 Elementary, Parma Park Elementary, sites.
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Parma Schools
pasts. Ask participants to send thank you notes to the residents they met. Also encourage the young people to discuss what they learned from their visit and what they contributed to the lives of the residents. Visit www.parmacityschools. org/assets or www.search-institute. org/assets for more information about the 40 Developmental Assets and ideas for helping young people choices. Have regular family meetings build them. Asset Corner #5 to plan, solve problems, and encour- Developmental Assets® are pos- itive factors within young people, more likely they are to grow up healthy age one another. Rotate who leads the by Gene Lovasy families, communities, schools, Developmental Assets - 40 in 8 and avoid risky behaviors, such as alco- meetings. and other settings that research has Categories: The more assets kids have hol and other drug use, violence, and In your neighborhood and com- found to be important in promoting the more likely they will be to thrive early sexual activity. munity: Get involved in the community the healthy development of young and avoid at-risk behaviors. and advocate for developing meaning- people. From Instant Assets: 52 The months of November and Empowerment Assets are: ful opportunities for young people, such Short and Simple E-Mails for Shar- April are when we focus our atten- # 7. Community Values Youth as volunteer projects and civic activities. ing the Asset Message. Copyright tion on the EMPOWERMENT asset # 8. Youth as Resources In your school or youth pro- © 2007 by Search Institute®, 877- category. If you recall from the # 9. Service to Others gram: Take a field trip to a nursing 240-7251; www.search-institute.org. November column, the point was #10. Safety home or senior housing complex. This message may be reproduced for made that.... Have students and group members educational, noncommercial uses Feeling valued and appreciated Tips for building these assets: perform a concert, and afterwards only (with this copyright line). All is important to all of us. For young It’s not always easy to know talk to residents and learn about their rights reserved. people, this means feeling safe and what it takes for young people to feel present situations, as well as their believing they’re liked and respected. empowered. Sometimes young peo- These feelings can go a long way ple doubt themselves or don’t feel toward empowering children and valued despite the good intentions of Parma CS ABLE Provides GED Program and recognition from caring adults. youth. Providing opportunities and continued from page 6 have been studying and share with me Communicate with young people recognizing accomplishments helps Stutzman, a GED instructor, “Adult their test preparation strategies; their openly and honestly about relation- young people build self-esteem. This learning programs are essential for determination and perseverance are ships, politics, religion, and other in turn, gives them the confidence individuals needing the services avail- so admirable. It is so commendable serious issues. Young people need to to share their ideas, knowledge, and able through ABLE. Students attending that I question if I were put in their know that their questions and con- creativity by volunteering and work- GED classes are seeking the guidance place, would I hold such qualities.” The cerns are valid and important. ing in paid jobs. By paying attention to complete or continue their edu- Parma ABLE GED students are dedi- to young people, you show that you cation.” When speaking with these cated to lifelong learning, and it is a Also try this.... value them. adult students, Shannon Pelsnik a pleasure to assist in their learning. For In your home and family: Research shows the more young GED Examiner finds much to respect. more information, please contact 440- Empower your child by providing people are valued and feel valuable, the “Examinees tell me how hard they 887-4877.
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Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com Page 8 The Parma Observer April, 2010
Parma Life Sports And Their Place In My Life by Joseph Finding my grandparents, because by the sixth My name is Joe Finding. I’m 70 grade I had outgrown both of my par- years old, and I live on Pinegrove Ave. in ents. By the eighth grade I was five foot Parma with my wife of 47 years. I was a ten, one hundred eighty five pounds, Councilman in Ward 1, and three years and shaving! I never played in an orga- ago I retired from teaching and coach- nized game with equipment until the ing sports after 46 years. Needless to say, Ninth Grade at St. Edwards. While sports have been a dynamic part of my there I played football and was on their life, and are a major facet of what has very first wrestling team. I transferred shaped me as a person. I believe that to St. John Cantius, and as luck would my lifelong involvement with sports has have it, one time during a game there opened doors and led to experiences were scouts from Kent State University, that I may never have had otherwise. and afterwards they offered me a schol- I grew up on the Westside of Cleve- arship, which I accepted. I attended land and attended St . Colman’s Grade KSU for four years, playing football, School on West 65th. and Madison. Our and also wrestling for two years. One of Monsignor did not believe in sports, so my teammates was Lou Holtz, and three we had none at school. My first learn- of my coaches went on to positions for ing experiences involving sports all the Bengals, the Colts, and the Lions. I took place in the red brick alley between graduated from KSU in 1961 with a B.S. Joe the Coach West 83rd. and West 85th.Streets. All of Degree.I started a career of teaching and the neighborhood kids played just about coaching that lasted for forty six years. sports for as long as I can remember, in schools because of a failure to pass every game there was there, and back During my years of teaching, I went but I have always kept sports in their these levies- it’s really up to the par- then most parents came to watch and back to school and earned my Mas- proper place; sports are a major part ents now. What do you think? I would cheer us on. Looking back now. those ters of Education Degree in 1967. Some of my life, but they do not rule my life. love to hear from people about their were great times; it’s hard to explain just schools that I coached at were West Sports on video games played on tele- thoughts concerning sports. What do how it was, but I wish that young people Tech., Charles Eliot, John Adams, Col- vision are a waste of time and will not you like? What do you dislike? How today had a chance to experience what it linwood, Brecksville, North Royalton, improve skills. Young people should about High School Championships? was like in those days. Normandy, Valley Forge, and Parma get outside and play these games, learn- How about College sports? How about When I was in grade school I was High. I have donated countless coach- ing the “ins and outs”. I think that it anything related to sports at all? Con- much bigger than most of the other kids; ing hours to Catholic Grade Schools. would be a real shame if we lost sports tact me at- [email protected] I must have inherited my genes from I have been actively involved with Tri-C West Hosts County-Wide Traditional Memorial Day Observance by Randi Hansen Memorial Day on the Cuyahoga ans Memorial Gardens located on archives inside the College. The Bring your family and honor Community College Western Cam- the western side of campus for an Crile Archives is a repository of our servicemen in a county- pus. Gather on Sunday, May 30, event to honor all veterans who 20th century military history con- wide traditional observance of from 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. at the Veter- have served our country. taining documents, artifacts and The observance will include a oral histories of the veterans of Tri-C West Theatre Announces parade, military displays, family WW I, WW II, the Korean war and activities and a free All-Ameri- the Vietnam war. The most recent Perfomance Dates for “Into the Woods” can hot dog buffet. Following the additions to the collection are a POW archive, and photos and doc- by Randi Hansen parade, a special remembrance cer- uments from nurses and African Cuyahoga Community College emony honoring our nation’s fallen American veterans. (Tri-C) Western Campus Theatre heroes and Gold Star families The Memorial Day observance Department performs its spring pro- will feature local dignitaries and is being co-sponsored by Tri-C in duction, Into the Woods, April 23-24, Retired United States Army Lieu- partnership with Busch Funeral 28-30, and May 1 at 8 p.m. and April tenant General Robert W. Wagner and Crematory Servics and the 25 and May 2 at 2 p.m. in the West- as the keynote speaker. Memorial Day Association of ern Campus Theatre located in the T The public is also invited to Greater Cleveland. building at 11000 Pleasant Valley Road view the Crile Archives during Free parking is available in the in Parma. the event. Signs will direct visi- B lot near the event. Stephen Sondheim and James tors from the double doors leading Lapine’s amazing musical intertwines available for parties of 10 or more. in from the memorials to the the stories of the Brothers Grimm Parking is available in the B lot fairy tales, Jack and the Beanstalk, (enter via Pleasant Valley). All other Rapunzel, Cinderella, and others into lots will require permits— parking a cautionary tale of what can happen costs $1 for a two-hour time block in when you obtain your heart’s desire. designated visitor lots on each Tri-C For more information, please call 216- campus, or a hangtag permit can be 987-5536. General admission is $10, purchased for 75 cents. students, seniors and staff are $8, and For more information, contact Tri-C students are admitted free with a Fred Gloor: 216-987-5536 or Fred. valid Tri-C student ID. Group rates are [email protected]. Be part of a unique travel experience throughout this breathtaking region. 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Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com April, 2010 The Parma Observer Page 9
Parma Heights A Victim Twice? by Jim Griffith pawned the items. They say they need and roadblocks are stopping you from be very time consuming for the pawn You have returned home from a remedy to get their investment back making yourself whole. shops. Realistically, the shops will only a night out. You just paid big bucks and holding the items for purchase by There have been several attempts see restitution 50% of the time. The for a good dinner and a bad movie. the owner guarantees they do not lose by members of the Ohio Legislature to shops do not consider this a very good As you pull into your driveway, you their investment. They state that with- ban the practice of making victims buy option or business practice. Is the way notice your front door is open. You out the guarantee, the loss of money their own property back, but every bill a pawn shop operates a good business were sure you had closed it when you would result in much higher costs, and introduced in the last decade has died practice? Are there certain times when left, so you approach with a quizzical prices that would put a lot of stores out in committee and never made it to the property rights need to take a backseat look on your face. As you walk up to of business or keep prices too high to floor. The usual explanation for this is to business practices? Do the business the front door you notice the door has make the items attractive. Where you the fact that the pawn shops have pow- owners have the right to protect them- been kicked in. You immediately call land in this debate is almost directly erful lobbyists who have influenced selves from being a victim? These are the police. You find that all of your jew- related to whether you have ever been enough house and senate members hard questions. Perhaps being aware elry and credit cards are missing from victimized before. People who have to keep those bills from getting to the of the process will help you should you the drawer in your bedroom.The police never experienced the pains of being floor for a vote. The most often offered become a crime victim someday. Per- officers take the information and they victimized can understand the logic solution has been the concept of mak- haps it is a system you want to question tell you they will get back to you. The the store employs when explaining ing the pawn shops a victim in the theft prior to being a victim. Perhaps it is a next day somebody tries to use one of their policies. Those who have been so that they could also prosecute and system that makes sense to you. Like your stolen credit cards at Parmatown victimized can understand the frustra- attempt to get the money back through so many other issues we deal with on a Mall. The store calls the police, they tion and feeling of helplessness as you the courts. Anybody familiar with daily basis, you decide. arrive and find all of your jewelry in attempt to put your life back in order the court system knows this would a book bag the bad guys is carrying. The police photograph the items and give them back to you. In the end, all is good. You were a victim. The system Parma Heights Historical Society worked the way it designed; to help a victim get their life back into order as To Form Centennial Committee soon as possible, with as little disrup- tion in their life as possible. There are a percentage of crime victims that claim to be victimized twice. To illustrate their dilemma, we only need to make one change in that perfect scenario. When the police arrest the thief, they find pawn shop tickets in his bag. The bad guy pawned your jew- elry the night before. If you were to go to the pawn shop to claim your items, a vast majority of pawn shops would not return your stolen items to you without you paying for them. You would liter- ally have to buy your own stolen items back from the pawn shop. The police cannot force the pawn shop to turn over the stolen items back to you. State law allows an exemption to pawn shops when it come receiving stolen property. How does a pawn shop operate under Ohio law? When a person comes into a pawn shop to pawn an item, they must present a valid ID that the shop must by Jim Griffith mittee in celebration of the 100th with your contact information. document. When an item is pawned, The Parma Heights Historical birthday of the City of Parma Heights. It will not be necessary for any- a pawn shop cannot do anything with Society is forming a Centennial Com- This will take place during the summer body to join the historical society if that item for 14 days. After 14 days the of 2011. If you are interested in getting they would like to be on the committee. item is available for resale. If an item is involved in planning events for the This is a stand alone effort with the only identified as stolen, the police depart- Do You Have What It centennial, please contact Jim Griffith goal being a well planned and presented ment can request the pawn shop hold at 440-886-4934 or email jgriffith@ event to celebrate the city’s milestone. the items until the investigation is Takes To Be The Next parmaheightshistoricalsociety.org complete. After the investigation is complete, the hold is removed from the Parma Area Idol? items and they are available for resale. continued from page 1 At any time the items are on hold, the Jovi, Kiss, Joan Jett, Peter Citara, and also victim may come in and purchase the managed the band “Clevelend”. items. After the hold is removed, the They are each highly qualified and items can be sold to anybody. Pawn really have their work cut out for them. shops are the only entity in the state of Not only will the winner receive bragging Ohio that can legally hold your stolen rights as the “Parma Area Idol” making items and not return them. Most peo- appearances at other local events, but ple are unaware of this until they are they will also receive a $200 Cash Prize a victim. When they try to claim their and the chance to record a “demo CD” at own personal property and are unable Advanced Audio Design Studio. to get it, they feel victimized again “We hope family and friends will and feel the system is working against also come out to lend their support them and not for them. Pawn shops, with posters and lots of cheering for on the other hand, can justify their their favorite.” actions. They argue that the cost of Applications along with the Rules Private Lessons doing business would be cost prohibi- and Regulations are available in the tive if they continually lost the money Chamber Office or call 440-886-1700. that was paid to the thief who had FREE passes are also available.
Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com Page 10 The Parma Observer April, 2010
Parma Observer Founding of Parma Historical Marker Unveiling Ceremony by Laura Watson the Community School Business part- Thanks to the initiative and hard nership (CBS), the Parma Education work of Parma City Councilman Sean Association and the Parma Board of Brennan, a dedication ceremony will be Education, Councilman Brennan was conducted for a new historical marker able to solicit enough funds not only for denoting the birthplace of Parma. It the marker, but also for a park bench will be held on April 22nd near the cor- located near the same location. On ner of Pearl and Ridge Roads, the site April 22nd, at 6:00 p.m., there will be an where the city was born. Benajah and unveiling ceremony which will include Ruth Wilcox Fay and their ten children a relative of the Fay family and many left New York and came to Ohio, where notable city dignitaries such as Mayor on March 7th, 1826, they represented Dean Depiero, the American Legion, the first settlers of Greenbriar, later Ohio Historical Society representa- to be named Parma. Located on the tives and Parma city councilpersons. wagon trail connecting Cleveland and Additionally, Dr. Sarah Zatik will be Columbus, their log cabin grew into the speaking on behalf of the Parma City well-known Benajah Fay Inn, Parma’s School District and CBS. PEA President, first business establishment. Unfor- Maureen Neville will also be speaking democratic nation. It is hoped that this both the City of Parma and the Parma tunately, since 1826, there has been no on behalf of the Parma teachers who so ceremony will showcase the quality of City School District. marker to designate this spot as the generously donated to this long over- birthplace of Parma until Mr. Brennan, due project. A band will be playing the Christian Values + Fashion + Problem with approval from the Ohio Historical “Star Spangled Banner” and a couple Society, sought donations to purchase of Parma students will be giving a brief Solving =Holy Family School Fashion Show the beautiful “Ohio Historical Marker” historical narrative of Parma as well as by Michele Bizzi that is pictured below. Thanks to the noting why public education has been Fashion and the spirit of coop- generosity of many Parma citizens via so important in the development of our eration filled the halls of Holy Family School to close our week long celebra- Dump No Waste, Drains to Creek tion of Catholic Schools Week. Students from grades Kindergarten through continued from page 1 eighth participated in our annual News- paper Fashion Show. A fashion show, Big Creek and West Creek watersheds, even one using newspaper may not be meaning most of our storm water ulti- unique, but at Holy Family School our Holy Family School students participating mately ends up in Big Creek or West take on it is exceptional. in the annual Newspaper Fashion Show Creek, then the Cuyahoga River and, Students at HFS used their prob- finally, Lake Erie. Nonpoint sources are in a school wide fashion show where lem solving skills to design a fashion to more difficult to control and eliminate, each class had the opportunity to strut wear within a forty minute time limit. so that is why a joint effort by businesses, their stuff and hard work on the gym Cooperation skills based in their Chris- industries, and citizens is necessary. floor turned cat walk. Guest judges tian values was put to the test since the As councilman for Ward Two of were on hand to select the winning students had to complete their outfits Parma, over the past two year I have classrooms from the elementary, mid- while also helping others in their class. partnered my Parma Municipal Court dle and junior high school grades. All Added to the challenge at hand, our District juvenile diversion community of the newspaper was promptly sent to upper classmen at Holy Family School service group with the Cuyahoga Soil issue of storm drain pollution and the Holy Family recycle bins located on serve as mentors for the younger stu- and Water Conservation District to paint take steps such as not dumping grass, the campus grounds. dents. They not only completed their storm drains in Parma’s Ward Two with household hazardous products and pet Holy Family School is commit- fashion within their time limit, they the following stencil: “Dump No Waste droppings into storm drains, sweep- ted to building a better world where also assisted the younger grades in cre- – Drains to Creek.” We have also deliv- ing excess fertilizer from your sidewalk Christ’s love can take root… One stu- ating their outfits. “It was the perfect ered information to residents regarding and driveway, etc. If you are interested dent at time. ending to our Catholic Schools Week – the program. Our hope has been to raise in coordinating a storm drain stencil- \Holy Family School, 7637 York having fun while helping others”, said awareness about the dangers of dumping ing program in your neighborhood Road, Parma, Ohio 44130, Contact: Ali Smith, 8th grade student. wastes into the storm drains. contact Amy Roskilly at Cuyahoga Soil Mrs. Holly Benkner, Art Teacher, 440- All of their hard work culminated This year make it a point to join and Water Conservation District at 842-7785 with your neighbors and discuss the (216) 524-6584, extension 22.
Are you or someone you know FACING FORECLOSURE?
5700 Broadway Avenue . Cleveland, Ohio 44127 . www.nhscleveland.org Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com
April, 2010 The Parma Observer Page 11
Parma Seniors
Caregiver’s Kitchen: No-Time, No-Energy Meals by Patty Knox grease and set aside in a bowl to cool. as desired, including two stalks celery, nightly meds, turn on some Brahms or Let’s face it. Our world revolves This will be divided into three parts. (If ½ a green pepper, 1 small zucchini, Mozart, scoop out a little bowl of ice around the person we are caring for, you want to jazz it up, you can use the and anything else you fancy. Leave out cream or sherbet for dessert, and enjoy and we need some down time just to beef-pork-veal meatloaf mix instead.) what you don’t like. Simmer veggies for dinner WITH your cared-for, instead stay ‘up’ for them. So, instead of cook- Now, our three one-bowl meals about ten minutes, or ‘til soft and eas- of hopping up and down, for a change! ing three suppers three nights in a row, are Shepherd’s Pie, Johnny Marcetti, ily chewable. Each entrée will provide four cook once and take two nights off. and Ground Beef Stroganoff. While that’s working, boil up a meals. Refrigerate or freeze as you like Reheating no longer requires me to put The longest to cook is the Mar- bag of egg noodles in a big pot of salted (although sour cream doesn’t like to be the spurs to the Revereware & create cetti, to get the fresh carrots soft. They water, regular or no-yolk as desired. frozen; it separates). Reheat individual more dirty pots and pans. God bless add amazing flavor, so it’s worth it! Half will be used for the Stroganoff, portions to serve for about two minutes the inventor of the microwave! Pour one can of diced tomatoes with half for the Marcetti. Don’t overcook in the microwave; if needed, keep add- Here’s how: You only need one garlic, basil and oregano into pan them, or they will be limp and disgust- ing 30 seconds to the reheating time large sauté pan and one gallon pot. and set on medium low to simmer. ing! Just cook ‘til slightly chewy, drain until barely hot. Do not overheat! Stir Brown 3 pounds (or less, if you’re not Add tomato juice or tomato paste and and rinse in cold water to stop the food before serving to your cared-for, big meat-eaters) of ground beef & one water to make a soup-like consistency. cooking process. as microwaved food tends to harbor large diced onion in pan. Season lib- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for Meanwhile, set out two storage hot spots that can burn their mouth. erally to taste while cooking with salt, depth of flavor. Slice carrots on the bowls (roughly quart-size) and place Better safe than sorry. pepper, and either Worcestershire diagonal into thin ovals and put into 1/3 of meat in tomato mixture pan, If you would like to join some sauce or a few drops of Maggi. Pour off tomato mixture. Dice other vegetables 1/3 in one bowl, and 1/3 in the other other caregivers for a free dinner, bowl. For the Stroganoff: Mix one can Nancy Taurino at Mount Royal Villa cream of mushroom soup, a small can in North Royalton has contacted me to of sliced mushrooms, and a pint of sour share her invitation of a monthly free Distinguished Achievement Hall Of cream, plus ¼ teaspoon black or white meal. This month’s dinner speaker is Fame Inaugural Induction Ceremony pepper. Stir. Add in egg noodles & stir addressing the topic of how to avoid again. It’s ready. caregiver burnout on April 28th at 4:30 Thursday, April 22, 2010 Now, for the Shepherd’s Pie: Make p.m. RSVP by Friday, Apr. 23 to (440) mashed potatoes using 2% milk for the 237-7966. Nancy would love to hear total amount of liquid called for on from you to answer any further ques- by Millissa Manco the box. Use Molly McButter or But- tions. Arrange for respite care now, & Please join the Normandy High School Alumni Association on Thursday, ter Buds to substitute for margarine take a couple hours off to be good to April 22, 2010 to celebrate the many successes of its former graduates and inau- or butter. Great flavor, no guilt! Add a yourself! It will be a joy to meet other gural inductees into the NHS Distinguished Achievement Hall of Fame. The Hall couple of dashes of Jane’s Krazy Mixed- caregivers like yourself. I hope to meet of Fame celebration will be held at Normandy High School beginning at 6:00pm. Up Salt, worth hunting down at the you there. You will return to your Tickets are $18.00 and include dinner and refreshments. Please call (440) 885-2400 grocery store. It makes anything bland cared-for refreshed in mind and spirit. for additional information. taste SO much better. Mix one can The price is right. And doesn’t food of creamed corn into meat, top with usually taste better (at least psychologi- mashed potatoes. Let cool, then cover. cally) when someone else cooks it? Seven Hills Last of all, let’s finish up the Mar- Keep those emails coming! cetti to eat tonight. Toss the noodles Write with your questions, concerns, into the simmering soupy tomato, veg- comments, & info to share to alzhei- gie and meat mixture to warm slightly, [email protected] and thank you dish out and serve with a bowl and a for reading the Parma Observer. Have spoon. Add a beverage, some bread, the a great April!
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Parma Observer’s Back Page The Right Time To Do The Right Thing continued from page 1 their fate, while in the Public, voters hold that essential responsibility. problem; why didn’t I take the time to Many will hope for a leader who properly arm myself with the infor- “makes us feel good about ourselves mation which may have led me to vote again”. I think that the way to feel good more wisely? After all, the problems about ourselves is to know that we did with certain elected officials all over our the right thing at the right time, and the county occurred mostly because we as right thing to do at this time is to vote voters failed to field better candidates yes on both the renewal levy for the from our comminity in the first place, schools as well as the emergency levy. and put them in positions where they We need to make sure that we retain knew they would be scrutinized closely control of our schools and not the state. and held to tight standards set by us, the We also need to make sure that as vot- people who put them there. ers we are selecting candidates who If that may seem a bit too simplis- have demonstrated talent, competence, tic to some, let’s not forget that this is and honesty- not someone who “we’d the simple way in which our govern- like to have a beer with”! ment is supposed to work. What good Parma’s Mayor Dean DePiero addresses the need to pass these levies. Even though it seems as if it’s taking is representative government if the wherever we choose- you, me, them, us, much more vigilant Public. forever, you know that sooner or later representatives don’t at all feel obliged politicians, etc.: one fact remains abso- There is a popular habit to the economy will improve, and banks to the voters? When society feels that lutely certain, and that is whomever or denounce government out of hand, and will again increase lending to home- wealth and the influence money can whatever is at fault, it is most definitely to disrespect anything public, suggest- buyers. When that time comes, whether buy is the most important thing, then not the children. Quite frankly, these ing instead that private market forces our community will be seen as a good naturally the current state of politics children don’t even fully realize just always do a better job of managing more place to buy a home or not will depend is an accurate reflection. Take a good how much is at stake here, in our near effectively, but I disagree and will point on this levy vote, as will so many other look. Our job as voters is to make sure future as well as their not-really-all- out that if this were true, then the near factors which define the essence of our that our chosen officials know that if that-far off future. We obviously find collapse of our financial system would community. I completely agreed with they choose to act in any other inter- ourselves painted into one nasty cor- never have occurred. We actually need Mayor DePiero when he spoke at the est besides our own, then they will ner here. Somehow, even though Forbes a better balance between what should Press Conference of the Three Mayors most definitely be replaced. This is still Magazine has recently listed us as one of be private and what should be pub- and said “ This is the most significant the only real way to ensure that decent the best cities in which to raise a child, lic. Truth is, the same corruption that levy vote for the next ten years”. In 2020 people go in and decent people come we have a school system that is teetering nearly brought down the banks is the I hope that we can say that we as voters out, instead of you know what! on the verge of financial takeover by the same corruption that has so tarnished rose to the occasion. You may think that When we do not take care to see state. However this may have occurred, our political institutions. These people you can not afford it, but upon exami- that our role is filled, then politicians we shouldn’t spend too much time on did not appear from some other world: nation, you will find that you definitely are only so happy to make their own blame, but more rather we should make they came from our families, schools, can’t afford the alternative. This is the rules, and our institutions will suf- certain that this situation never occurs and churches. The only difference is right time to do the right thing. fer, as they have. We can lay the blame again, and this will obviously require a that in Business, shareholders decide
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