Of Parma High Corridor," He Said

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Proud Member Of The Observer Media Family Of Community Owned Newspapers & Websites Volume 6 • Issue 3 • March, 2014 Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter Delivers Third State Of The City Address by Michael Culp which last year leveraged $1.6 ural cornerstone for a "Town In his third State of the million in real estate purchases Center" concept, incorporat- City address on February 24, for 18 first-time, income-eligi- ing all that is around it - City Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter ble home buyers. Hall, the new public library, unveiled two new programs Meanwhile, the formation the hospital, Stearn's Home- the administration is develop- of a Parma Youth Commis- stead, and the Day Drive ing: a first-time home buyers sion, comprised of Parma high corridor," he said. "To sieze the program aimed at attracting schoolers, to encourage moment, our administration college graduates and a youth students to participate in gov- created the Parma Mayor's commission to encourage ernment, was announced. Town Center Task Force." The civic involvement among high DeGeeter tapped Council 15 member task force - com- schoolers. During his speech President Sean Brennan, a prised of stakeholders and at the Parma-Snow branch of U.S. History and Government residents - will produce strate- the Cuyahoga County Pub- teacher, to lead the effort. gic recommendations in about lic Library system, DeGeeter "They'll have the opportunity 6 months to help make the focused mostly on city efforts to learn about all facets of city Town Center concept a reality. to bolster the economy, Parma Mayor Timothy J. DeGeeter at the podium delivering his government and interact with The group already has met and strengthen neighborhoods, third annual State of the City address on February 24. public officials and commu- put considerable effort into the provide efficient government, nity leaders," DeGeeter said. project. Soon, the task force and maintain quality services "We hope this program will will solicit public input as part to residents. his father at the podium to the city. "We need them to prepare and encourage youths of the process to develop the While in a formal setting kick off the speech. DeGeeter not only work here but to live to pursue a civic minded life." town center vision. in the library's new state-of- used the address to announce here," he said. "Homeowner- Details are still being worked In addition to the mall the-art auditorium, the nearly new programs the administra- ship is critical for the life of our out, such as the application redevelopment and town cen- 40 minute address, punctuated tion is advancing, including community and we must not process and specific deadlines. ter concept, DeGeeter also throughout by applause, also a new first-time home buyers' undermine what we all have In his speech, DeGeeter touted other projects: reflected a family atmosphere. initiative intended to attract worked so hard to build." The highlighted new and expand- The Cuyahoga Public Five year old Jack DeGeeter, young professionals to Parma, proposal builds upon the suc- ing businesses and the Library's new $15.6 million the mayor's son, introduced especially those who work in cess of the existing program, administration's efforts to dollar Parma branch on Pow- build upon the on-going rede- ers Blvd. and the $15.2 million Joint Safety Meeting Held By velopment at the Shoppes at dollar renovation of the Parma- Parma. "The redevelopment of Snow Branch. Parma Councilmen Tuma And Divis the mall can be used as a nat- by Allan Divis informative presentations by any kind of yard work, and On February 12, Ward 8 Sergeant Kevin Riley of the being vigilant when strangers Parma Observer Welcomes Councilman Scott Tuma and Parma Police Department and knock on your door and try myself, Ward 5 Councilman Law Director Tim Dobeck. to engage you in conversation. Managing Editor Sergeant Riley addressed Law Director Dobeck’s pre- Allan Divis, hosted a joint by Daniel P. McCarthy safety meeting in Council home safety issues and pro- sentation focused on how best They say that imitation Chambers at Parma City Hall. vided useful tips on protecting to avoid becoming a victim is the sincerest form of flat- Despite the bitter cold, a good one’s home from intruders. of telephone and credit card tery. We have that in mind contingent of residents were on For instance, Riley suggested scams. Other guest speakers when other area publications hand to receive valuable infor- cutting your grass before leav- at the meeting included Mayor announce that they are seeking mation pertaining to home ing for vacation, locking your Tim DeGeeter and Safety community columnists and security and telemarketing doors while you are outside Director Gregory Baeppler. would like area residents to scams.The meeting included of your property while doing Following the presenta- send in photos of their events, tions, Councilman Tuma and special occasions, renovations, I moderated a question and etc. After all, we have been answer session with residents focusing on those things since and provided safety tip fliers. the very beginning, so it feels Tuma said, “Our number one good to be noticed and makes priority as elected officials of us think that we must be doing the City of Parma is community something right. The demand safety.” I believe that positive for our paper is increasing town hall meetings like this help Stefan P. Stefaniuk every month and judging from further that goal. The useful expand by including addi- the numerous calls we receive information that was provided tional key team members. A asking where the Parma to residents at the safety meet- decision has been reached to Observer can be found (in ing is available upon request by add the position of Managing over 185 locations throughout simply contacting either myself Editor. I have thought long and Parma, Parma Heights, and Left to right, Parma Police Sgt. Kevin Riley, Parma Ward 5 Coun- or Councilman Tuma through hard about this and I feel that Seven Hills) we realize that cilman Allan Divis, and Parma Ward 8 Councilman Scott Tuma our offices at Parma City Hall at our choice of Stefan P. Stefa- in order to meet this demand, at the Safety Meeting held in Parma City Council chambers on (440) 885-8091. February 12. it has become necessary to continued on page 2 Page 2 The Parma Observer Vol 06, Issue 3 March, 2014

Community News

maintenance of and cleaning of public the month at 7:00 pm. The public is The President’s Corner streets and sidewalks. It is in this com- encouraged to attend and participate mittee where new recreation programs, in these informative meetings, which by Sean Brennan, such as this year’s new evening youth take place at Parma City Hall in City Parma City Council President baseball and softball leagues, are dis- Council Chambers. To enter Council This month I will continue a series cussed. Chambers, simply park behind City of columns begun last month that Ward Six Councilman Larry Nap- Hall and enter through the back doors. are meant to inform you about the oli has always been an advocate for Meeting dates and times are posted on committee structure of Parma City making Parma’s environment even the City’s website at www.cityofparma- Council. Last month I focused on why better. This is why his colleagues have oh.gov or you may simply call the Council committees are formed and granted him the chairmanship of the Council office for information at 440- how they operate, as well as a synop- Environmental Standards Committee 885-8091. Happy St. Paddy’s Day and sis about the Finance Committee. This over the years. Ward Three Council- here’s to a warm spring! month I hope to inform you about man Mark Casselberry serves as Vice some of the other working groups of Chairman. All matters relating to Council. natural watercourses, streams, creeks, The Public Safety Committee is brooks and the pollution thereof; headed up by Council veteran, Ward the water supply, smoke abatement, Four Councilman Brian Day. Ward air pollution, street lighting, surface Seven Councilman Brian Brochetti Sean Brennan, and storm water drainage, the con- serves as the Vice Chairman of the Parma City Council President struction, maintenance and repair committee. The Safety Committee is chronic nuisance properties. The Parma Observer is a com- of storm and sanitary sewers, sewage charged with dealing with all matters Next, the Public Service Com- munity owned and operated disposal and the collection and dis- relating to the Fire Prevention Code, mittee is chaired by Ward Two citizen based news source. The posal of refuse and other waste are the the Building Code, the Housing Code, Councilwoman Debbie Lime with views and opinions expressed issues heard in this committee. For do not necessarily reflect the the Traffic Code, the improvement, Ward Six Councilman Larry Napoli example, Councilman Napoli’s com- views and opinions of The repair and construction of municipal serving as Vice Chair. This committee mittee played a key role in protecting Parma Observer staff or our properties and ways, public health, the handles legislation relating to public the West Creek Preserve, which is now advertisers. Building Department, use of public parks, playgrounds, recreational sites, the Cleveland Metroparks’ West Creek streets and sidewalks, penal ordinances the Ridgewood Municipal Golf Course, 11180 Snow Road, Parma, Reservation. and public nuisance abatement. For recreational buildings, such as Ries Ice Ohio 44130 More about the other committees instance, this is the committee that Rink, swimming pools, recreational 440.884.7625 • http://par- of Parma City Council next month. worked with the Building Depart- programs, public charities, direct and maobserver.com Committee meetings generally take ment to craft the new ordinance that work relief, hospitals, social services, place on the first Monday of each month authorizes building inspectors to ticket Senior Citizen programs, and the at 6:00 pm and the second Monday of Advisory Board Craig Czepczynski Randi Hansen David Lincheck Third Annual Parma Peanut Butter Drive A Success Lisa Zaremba George Salo by Sean Brennan cal Center President, and his staff for Board Member Rosemary Gulick Bill DeMarco I am excited to report that the Third assisting greatly with the drive, collect- and her husband Tom; John and June Annual Parma Peanut Butter Drive ing many jars of peanut butter at their Bolibrush; the Parma Animal Shelter; Publisher Daniel P. McCarthy continued its tradition of success. Held facility. Gary Sikon, Manager at Office Max during the last weeks of 2013 to benefit Dave Nedrich and Cheryl McIn- on Snow Road; the Parma Ridgewood Editor the patrons of All Faiths Pantry, we col- tosh at the Parma Area Chamber of YMCA Adventure Princesses and their Patty Knox [email protected] lected over $1,000 and well over 500 jars Commerce are also to be thanked for fathers; Michelle Bartunek; Girl Scout (890 pounds) of peanut butter. Needless allowing donors to drop items at their Troops 70027, 70802, 70806, 70959 and Managing Editor to say, I continue to be amazed at the offices at The Shoppes at Parma. 71499; Elaine Swade; Donald Hunt; Stefan P. Stefaniuk Design and Production generosity of the Parma area’s residents, Further, Brian Winslow and his Gene Lovasy; Judy Mileti and the staff AGS Design businesses, and non-profit organiza- staff at First Federal of Lakewood on at Distinctive Eyewear; Lawrence and Advertising Sales tions, all of which came together, once Snow Road in the Midtown Plaza Shop- Carolyn Murray; Kelly Scheiman; 440-884-7625 again, to help the senior citizens and ping Center kindly accepted donations Nick and Maria Vaccaro; Thomas other low-mobility residents on fixed this year, as well. and Evelyn Moore; the Parma Profes- Writers incomes served by the Pantry. The following deserve special sional Friefighters Local 639; Harry Amandah Blackwell Sean Brennan A sincere thank you goes to Sari recognition for their very generous Arnold; Robert Pampe; Adelbert and Michael Culp Feldman, Executive Director of the support of the drive: our main spon- Jo Ann Wojdacz; Cindy Pietrasz; Marie Allan Divis Cuyahoga County Public Library Sys- sor Columbia Gas of Ohio; Parma Tedeschi; County Council District Denise Geschwender tem. Our Parma library branches once Mayor Tim DeGeeter and the employ- 4 Councilman Chuck Germana, his Dr. Jeffery Graham again were wonderful in assisting as ees at Parma City Hall; City of Parma brother Joe Germana, and their kind Lee Kamps drop off and collection points for the Law Director Tim Dobeck and his fine staff at Four Star Insurance; Ward 2 Leo Lampeter Gene Lovasy staff; Parma City Council Clerk Ken Councilwoman Debbie Lime; Ward 5 drive. Hats off to the fine staff mem- Lucy McKernan bers who assisted with these efforts at Ramser and our staff; former Dent- Councilman Allan Divis; and Ward 6 Wayne Mesker our Parma branches. zler Elementary School Principal Gayle Councilman Larry Napoli. Dale Powell I also wish to thank Terry Deis, Clapp and her husband Alan; Patty A special thanks is in order to the CJ Sheppard University Hospitals Parma Medi- and Wayne Wanyerka; Parma School many individuals and families who Stefan P. Stefaniuk gave their donation anonymously. Daniel Taddeo Kathryn Yates Once again, Parma’s residents (and Parma Observer Welcomes several folks from surrounding com- Illustrations munities) have proven their true Julia Cindric Managing Editor hometown values of helping one’s Photography continued from page 1 Stefan is a modest and humble person, neighbor when in need. Amandah Blackwell niuk to fill this crucial role with the who prefers that I do not list his many Last, but not least, thank you to Michael Culp Observer is most definitely the right accomplishments and qualifications, John Visnauskas and the many vol- Allan Divis step at the right time. so I will honor his request. What is Wayne Mesker unteers at All Faiths Pantry for filling Dale Powell most important is that he is committed Who is Stefan P. Stefaniuk? He is a a desperate need in our community. CJ Sheppard lifetime Parma resident, Navy Veteran, to helping the Parma Observer grow Without selfless individuals like them, Stefan P. Stefaniuk Realtor, father and all around active and reach ever greater heights in our many in our midst would be truly Kathryn Yates citizen who is involved in a multitude mission to create an atmosphere where suffering. To find out more about All of useful civic endeavors. I know him true dialogue in the seventh largest city Faiths Pantry please visit their website The Parma Observer is powered by: from his involvement in Polish Vil- in Ohio can result in lasting, positive at http://allfaithspantry.org/ or call me lage and the Friends of Parma Theater. changes that we all can be proud of. at (440) 884-0489 for a brochure.

Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com March, 2014 The Parma Observer Vol 06, Issue 3 Page 3

Your nationally recognized care, close to home.

Introducing University Hospitals Parma Medical Center.

University Hospitals is proud to welcome Parma Medical Center into our exceptional care community. With nationally recognized physicians and nurses, plus immediate access to UH’s specialty institutes and prompt 24-hour emergency care, you can rest assured knowing there’s advanced care, right around the corner. Introducing your great care, made even greater. Introducing University Hospitals Parma Medical Center.

For more information about this exciting advancement, visit ParmaHospital.org.

440-743-3000 ParmaHospital.org

Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com Page 4 The Parma Observer Vol 06, Issue 3 March, 2014

Health/Culture Parma Hospital Celebrates Joining UH by CJ Sheppard care and culture. As evidence of this An energized employee force clad comfort level, he cited the reaction in red and black welcomed University of surgical nurse Natalie Klubnik to Hospitals (UH) leadership to the newly the July 1 announcement that Parma integrated UH Parma Medical Center Hospital intended to become part of for a special day of celebration on Feb- the UH health system: It’s like fam- ruary 12. ily. Klubnik was among the UH Parma “We celebrate a new beginning,” Medical Center employees featured UH CEO Thomas F. Zenty III told a in a celebration video shared with packed auditorium. “We’re commem- employees. orating the combination of two very “We celebrate today, and we’re compassionate cultures. Our vision for thankful that we found an organiza- integration is to elevate the quality of tion that matched us so closely,” Deis care for all the patients that we serve, said. “We knew that we needed to both here and in all of Northeast Ohio, become part of a bigger, greater system by enhancing the great care that you to ensure that health care was in Parma already provide.” and the surrounding communities for To honor the historic integration the long haul and that we were here for Opportunity through Unity: University Hospitals leadership came to Parma on Feb. of the former Parma Community Gen- those we are privileged to serve.” 12 for a day of celebration with the newest hospital to join the UH family. eral Hospital and EMH Healthcare Zenty reassured staff not to con- into the UH family, Zenty brought a out the day, excited employees received investing in facilities and equipment, sider this change a takeover of their team of leaders with him on the road, their new ID badges and gifts com- and expanding UH Institutes to the hospital, as it has been characterized including Dr. Eric Bieber, the new memorating the occasion. Parma campus. UH’s Seidman Cancer in some arenas. It’s a new starting line President of UH’s western region, and Tait acknowledged that UH and Center expanded to Parma in August, rather than an ending point. He noted Chief Strategy Officer Paul Tait, the Parma both focus on high quality and as its 16th location in Northern Ohio. that University Hospitals was named architect of the expansion. They vis- the best patient experience. Over the UH Parma Medical Center Presi- to the 2013 US News & World Report ited UH Elyria Medical Center in the next several months, Tait said UH will dent Terrence G. Deis said he believed Honor Roll, recognizing the top 18 of morning and spent the afternoon at work on bringing more physicians here UH best mirrored Parma’s commit- the more than 5,700 hospitals in the UH Parma Medical Center. Through- to enhance the existing medical staff, ment to community, high-quality country. But UH can learn from Parma also, he added. “Our goal here is to create a long- Healthcare.gov - Open Enrollment lasting, generations-long partnership,” Zenty said. “We’re going to learn as much from you as you’re going to learn Ends March 31, 2014 from us. We’re going to bring the best of our worlds together as a result of this expect to take in the Health Insurance Application”; or with an in-person by Gene Lovasy newly formed relationship.” Healthcare.gov – Open Enroll- Marketplace: assister. ment Ends March 31, 2014 Remember: Step 1. There are four ways you Step 2. A bit about you. You’ll March 31st is the last day to sign up can sign up through the Health Insur- need to answer some questions about The Confident for health insurance. Do you need it? ance Marketplace: online – go to you and your family, including your Choice For What happens if you don’t get cover- www.healthcare.gov; by phone – call income, the number of people in your In-Home age? The accompanying guide should 1-800-318-2596 TTY 1-855-889-4925; family, and more. Having at your fin- Care. provide answers to these questions. by mailing in a paper application – to ger tips the following information Here’s how to begin the enrollment download a copy go to healthcare.gov would be helpful: the Social Security process. and click on the “4 Ways to Apply” link numbers of everyone who will be on Here are the basic steps you can and scroll down to “Apply with a Paper your plan, income information….a

recent W-2 pay stub would do it and Providing quality, affordable, non-medical information about any health insur- in-home care for seniors and other clients ance you currently have (if you have who need companionship and personal care. any)….something that has the policy ﬁrstlighthomecare.com number on it is all you need. HopkoFuneral Home Read The full Story Online at: John C. Hopko Cheryll A. Hopko http://parmaobserver.com 28025 Clemens Rd., Suite 4, Westlake 440-250-9733 6020 Broadview Road - Parma, Ohio

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Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com March, 2014 The Parma Observer Vol 06, Issue 3 Page 5

Parma Education

PCSD’s Kindergarten registra- tion is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, March 13th & 14th from 7:30 am to noon and again from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Shoppes at Parma (enter by the Food Court). Check out the District’s Kindergarten Web page for details & tips & tricks to help you prepare your child for this life mile- stone. Share your asset building ideas Watch for information regard- and/or thoughts about the develop- Asset Corner #51 ing how you can help with our annual mental asset concept by visiting the by Gene Lovasy heard and express opinions. With Backpack For Kids program. Spear- “asset corner” facebook page. I’m SHOW KIDS YOU CARE: these skills in hand young people make headed last year by the Collab & Phil looking forward to hearing from you. DISCUSS THEIR DREAMS AND appropriate decisions and stand firm in Kish of KIKS Office, over 400 school Visit www.search-institute.org/ NIGHTMARES. March’s Asset Cat- what they believe. supply filled backpacks went to deserv- assets for more information about the egory: SOCIAL COMPETENCIES Here are the facts: ing kids in our district. Unfortunately 40 Developmental Assets and ideas for Learning social skills is a lot like learn- Research shows that young people the need is closer to 900 so we have helping young people build them. Or ing to play the piano in that you need to who can resist negative peer pressure a ways to go. Flyers will be coming go here http://www.parentfurther. learn some basic competencies and you and dangerous situations are more out soon detailing how you can get com/ for great asset-based parenting need someone to teach you those skills. likely to avoid risky behaviors and involved. tips, tricks, activities and ideas. You need time to practice, guidance focus on positive attitudes. About 41 as you gain experience, and feedback percent of young people, ages 11–18, say along the way. Social competencies are they can resist negative peer pressure District-Wide Initiative Aims To the skills and life perspectives young and dangerous situations, according to Increase Breakfast Participation people need to develop into healthy, Search Institute surveys. Speaking up competent adults. These skills are for themselves takes practice, but with by Dr. Jeffrey Graham National Dairy Council and the NFL, important daily, but they’re even more your help, young people can learn to our high school Cooperative Mar- crucial when young people encounter take a stand. The impact of breakfast on learn- keting Management students will be the tough times in life. Tips for building this asset: ing is well documented. Poor nutrition competing to increase breakfast par- Social Competency Assets Teach young people resistance is linked with absenteeism, hunger ticipation throughout the district. Include: skills, but also teach them the values symptoms and psychosocial problems #32 Planning & Decision Mak- that support why they would take a - all of which impact a child's ability to These high schoolers are gaining ing – Young person knows how to plan stand on an issue. Having many con- learn. So why aren't more of our stu- real-world experience creating and ahead & make choices. (29%*) versations with a teenager about drug dents eating the most important meal implementing marketing and incentive #33 Interpersonal Competence – use, sex, safety, and personal boundar- of the day? An alarming 80% of the programs aimed at improving aware- Young person has empathy, sensitivity ies increases the chance he or she will students who visit our school clinics ness of the importance of a healthy & friendship skills. (45%*) make a safe choice when, for example, have not had breakfast. And while 48% breakfast, and increasing the number #34 Cultural Competence – asked to ride in a car with a driver who of our students qualify for our free and of students who eat breakfast. Their Young person has knowledge of and has been drinking. reduced food program, only 13% are goal is to increase the number of stu- comfort with people of different cul- Also try this: taking advantage of breakfast served at dents who eat breakfast by 25%. We'll tural/racial/ethnic backgrounds. In your home and family: Model school, leaving a lot of students under- be sure to share their progress with (43%*) and role-play resistance skills, specify- served. you. #35 Resistance Skills – Young per- ing what to say or not say. Talk with your son can resist negative peer pressure child about what was easy and what was Our Nutrition Services Depart- I want to thank everyone who is and dangerous situations. (41%*) difficult. Focus not only on how to resist, ment, under the leadership of working together to help our students #36 Peaceful Conflict Resolution but also on what to say “yes” to. supervisor Jackie Rohr, has put sev- grow up healthy and strong, both men- – Young seeks to resolve conflict non- In your neighborhood and com- eral grant-funded initiatives in motion tally and physically. Wellness for a violently. (40%*) munity: Offer a safety net to the young such as a pilot program of Break- child has a life-long impact on his or (* The percent of youth who expe- people you know. Let them know they fast in the Classroom and Grab n' Go her life. And that's something we want rience or have this asset in their lives. can call you if they feel pressured or breakfast options to help increase the for every one of our students. Data based on an aggregate Search tempted to do something unsafe or number of students who eat breakfast. Institute sample of 148,189 students unhealthy. But it's their district-wide effort I want Sincerely, surveyed in 2003. The sample included In your school or youth program: to shine a light on today. Made possible Dr. Jeffrey Graham students in 202 cities in 27 states.) Learn about people in the world who through funding by the Fuel Up to Play stood up for their values and resisted 60 program, which was founded by the This column’s focus will be on….. what everyone else was doing (such as Asset #36 – Resistance Skills Rosa Parks and Gandhi). Discuss why The art of resistance and reason- they were able to do so. CHALASINSKI INSURANCE GROUP LLC ing.... ASSET RELATED NEWS If you’re not aware, the Parma City SR-22 Bond Learning resistance is one of Auto, Home, Renter, Commercial, Life Insurance the most important social skills to Schools spring edition of the Adult develop. This skill gives young people Education Catalogue is now available. Senior Security the confidence to say “no” to people or There are quite a few new, creative & “MOWIMY PO POLSKU” situations that make them uncomfort- unique programs available. Check it www.ThomasChalasinski.com able. Learning to assert themselves also out at the District’s web site - www. www.ChalasinskiInsuranceGroup.com helps young people make their voices parmacityschools.org. Call Me Today & Save 440.838.5383

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Page 6 The Parma Observer Vol 05, Issue 12 December, 2013

Inspiration I Believe Cure For Cabin Fever by Daniel Taddeo by Dale Powell if you live in the area on the other side. A relationship is a two-way street. Like most of us this winter, I have Before this, if you wanted to walk over After love, the most important word is we; the least important word is I. spent a good deal of time in the house, there, you needed to walk all the way to All family members should express their concerns and explore options. unable to do the things that I like to do Stumph Rd., cross the bridge there, and All God really wants from us is our attention. outside. There's only so much cleaning, make your way all the way back. Hoo- All of our choices produce some kind of consequences. dusting, and rearranging of items on ray to the person or persons who finally Almost everyone has his or her version of what is fair. The question remains, shelves and in drawers that one can do. thought of this obvious solution. “Who is right?” I try and get out to various places and As I walked along on my return Children benefit when the family eats together without TV. engage in as many activities as I can, journey, I thought of long ago when Children growing up without a father are more likely to manifest undesirable but I just miss the opportunity to enjoy I would walk along this same path, behavior. the outdoors. It's not as if I hate the sometimes with my father. I was much Children need good role models: girls need mothers and boys need fathers, if winter; in fact, there are few sights as younger then, and so many memo- at all possible. beautiful and peaceful looking as snow ries come back to me from that time. Children thrive when parents devote individual attention to each child, if pos- covering everything in a gorgeous The Metroparks have always been here sible. blanket of white. Problem is, at my age since I've been alive, and they just keep Everyone who calls on the Lord shall be saved and blessed. and with an artificial hip as well, I can't getting better. I wonder if people in the Family discussions are better when everybody faces one another. risk walking around my neighborhood Greater Cleveland area realize what Generally speaking, children should be limited to the cash allowance allotted with all of that ice and snow. a genius William Stinchcomb was, them. Thank goodness for the the man who envisioned the Emerald God’s word says that our lives are to be lived in service to one another. Metroparks! On February 13, I went Necklace 100 years ago. Few places Having fun together as a family is a key part of building a strong family iden- to the area near Big Creek between have such a planned system of park tity. the Snow Rd. Picnic area and Stumph lands encircling the whole of their cit- Individual disobedience can have extended, negative consequences. Rd. The upper path along the road was ies. Believe me, they are an awesome Marriage and family are two of the greatest blessings one could possibly expe- plowed rather nicely, making it very cure for cabin fever, especially after a rience. easy to walk along safely and enjoy the winter like this one. I can't wait to walk Money is the number one topic about which husbands and wives argue. wonderful sight of the trees, and squir- there in the Spring, when a whole new Often we use our God-given gifts to our own end, rather than share them. rels and other wildlife busy with their set of sights will amaze me. Prayer is the key to heaven, but faith unlocks the door. winter activities. The lower path, near Problems in the world will only intensify and become worse without adher- the creek, is especially enjoyable. While ence to God’s law. it is not plowed, there is a clear path The biggest secret to being a happy family is just trying. made by the many people who choose The formula for unending joy is putting God first, others second, and one’s to walk along it. I couldn't believe my self third. eyes when I saw the new wooden bridge The most highly charged time of day for a family is between 6:00 p.m. and built to cross the creek with paths that 8:00 p.m. connect to the Greenbriar Commons The word of God provides the light we need to find our way in life. New bridge crossing the creek in Parma Area in Parma Heights. Not only is it We are blessed with serenity when we are content with just who we are—no Heights. A welcome, practical route was a wonderful way to glimpse the natu- more, no less. created here, and you may meet some ral area, but it is also a practical way to We are meant to lean on each other. new friends. have access to the commercial district When people gamble, the more they play, the more they lose. When we focus on Christ, giving really feels good.

to: CLEVELAND Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. date: MARCH, 2014 name: JOHN DOE Worship the God of the Bible and serve Him first. Self-reflection is always a good exercise. What I believe is a work in progress, not limited to these statements and subject to change. What do YOU believe?

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Buenos Aires Argentina March, 2014 The Parma Observer Vol 06, Issue 3 Page 7

Parma Area

Great thrifty finds.

Liverpool Lads performing at the UAW Hall on Feb. 8. Really easy to find.

The "INVASION" Of Parma SMith rd by Wayne Mesker The first British Invasion began . on April 18, 1775 when General Gage ordered 700 British soldiers to Con- Southland cord to destroy the colonists' weapons Shopping Center depot. That night, Paul Revere and

William Dawes were sent from Bos- 130th St. W. ton to warn colonists. Revere reached Big CreeK pKWY.

Lexington about midnight and warned pearl rd. Sam Adams and John Hancock who were hiding out there. Eventually the contributed to this event including the British were defeated. UAW, Ganley Chevrolet, Clear Chan- The second British Invasion was nel, IATSE Local 160, all of the local to happen nearly 184 years afterward businesses that allowed us to put up Visit the Cleveland Furniture Bank when The Beatles arrived at John F. posters and flyers, and members of the Kennedy International Airport on Feb. media that helped spread the word. Thrift Store, now located in the 7, 1964. But the most successful Brit- Also, thanks to the vendors who came Southland Shopping Center! ish Invasion occurred recently right out with an interesting variety of prod- here in Parma when the Liverpool ucts ranging from vintage clothing, to The Thrift Store is bigger and better than ever, with incredible Lads (Beatles) and Jumpin’ Jack Flash art to purses made using old 45 RPM deals on a wide variety of furniture, clothing and household items. records. An excellent time was had by (Rolling Stones) performed at the lat- Come visit our new location at the Southland Shopping Center Laser Comp PDF PDF (No Slug) JPG Flash Native Files est Friends of Parma Theater event, in all and there will surely be more events AE s D ELIVERABLES : in Middleburg Heights. Right now you can enjoy even more great partnership with UAW 1005 and held at like this in the months to come. So, the UAW hall in Parma on February 8, keep your eyes and ears open and be savings – 20% off your entire purchase with coupon. Date 2014. Hundreds of “Friends” new and sure to follow the Friends Of Parma Our selection changes constantly, so come back often. Theater on Facebook. facebook.com/ old were in attendance at this fun-filled You never know what you’ll find and your purchases go Initials Rockin’ and Rollin’ extravaganza. FriendsOfParmaTheater to support the needy of Northeast Ohio. Thanks to all who supported and Approval Copywriter CD - Copy Designer/AD CD - Design Quality Assurance Proofreader Production AE FINAL APPROVAL Winter Weather Wreaks Havoc Purchased Retouched Approved Hi Res On Parma Homeowner BW Other

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Crash! On Tuesday, February 18th, 13360 Smith Road, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130 Client: Division: Project: x 0” 0” Flat Size: x 15.25” 4.625” Size: Trim x 0” 0” Area: Live 0” Bleed: 85 Line Screen: C OLOR : I MA g E : my mom's patio awning couldn't take www.clevelandfurniturebank.org 216.459.2265 the ice and snow anymore and col- lapsed on the patio. What a mess! Ice, Store Hours: Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Prepared by: 3rd floor W 6th St, 1370 OH 44113 Cleveland, 216.574.9100 snow, dirt, awning pieces and wood Saturday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. cover the patio. It makes it difficult for Harriet, my mom's 16 year old Yorkie Patio awning had enough of the ice and Poo, to go to the bathroom. snow. No one was hurt when the awning fell down, but the booming sound the awning. brought out the neighbors from their Many people like winter because 01.06.14 warm homes. Everyone wanted to see DATE INSERTION of sports such as skiing, ice skating or MEDIUM PUBLICATION JOB NUMBER & C OMPONENT

OBSERVER PARMA what happened. The next door neigh- and sledding. But it can destroy a car 20% off * bors offered to help shovel the ice and or home in less than 2.5 seconds. Win- your entire purchase snow, but it was too slippery. It was ter has a dark and cold side. It’s not as * One coupon per person. Not to be combined with any 2435_02_CLFURN_InitialPrint_4.625x15.25_Parma nice of them to offer. pretty as some may think. other offers, sales or promotions. Production Notes: Hopefully, the temperatures will For those that didn’t winterize rise instead of fall and melt the snowy their homes before Jack Frost rolled mess so the cleanup can begin. Of into town, cover windows with plas- course, the insurance adjuster has to tic and shore up awnings with support In the Southland Shopping Center come out and assess the damage. Will beams. Most importantly, maintain this affect my mom’s homeowner’s the snow blower so that it works. After 13360 Smith Road, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130 insurance rate? It shouldn’t because it all, according to the groundhog, winter www.clevelandfurniturebank.org was an act of God, right? It’s not as if will stick around for six more weeks. 216.459.2265 she went outside and knocked down Great.

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Perspective In Health Care, We Are Truly All In This Together by Lee Kamps and the risk pool becomes more stable. In 1979, the United States Supreme in employer group health insurance Since the exchanges opened last Take pregnancy and maternity Court ruled in a case that group insur- plans, the overall cost of group health October, there has been much criti- benefits, for example. Pregnancy and ance plans that did not cover normal insurance did not change much at all. cism over the benefits that are required maternity charges only affect a certain pregnancy and maternity expenses But that ruling did not extend to indi- for policies available through the segment of the population; women of the same as any other illnesses were vidually purchased health insurance. exchanges. Much of that criticism child bearing age. If as has been done engaging in discrimination. In effect, So health insurance companies contin- deals with why single men or women with individual health insurance policies the Supreme Court ruled that compa- ued to exclude normal pregnancy and over age 50 must pay for things like until the ACA became effective; normal nies that covered employees for health maternity benefits until this year when pregnancy and maternity benefits or pregnancy and maternity expenses were insurance now had to cover normal the ACA exchanges became effective. that why should women have to pay for generally excluded and only covered if pregnancy and maternity benefits like But when it comes to health insur- prostate exams. At the same time many the person purchased a maternity rider. any other illness. ance; we are truly all in this together. people complain that while tobacco Of course, the only people who would I was a beneficiary of this deci- Since what we (or our employers) pay users are required to pay higher premi- purchase that rider were those most at sion since my employer, a major life for health insurance is dependent on the ums, why isn’t the same requirement risk of incurring pregnancy and mater- and health insurance company, did not overall health of the population. This is applied to people who are obese? nity expenses; women of child bearing cover normal pregnancy and maternity something that has been largely ignored This criticism ignores the basic age. As a result, this pregnancy rider was expenses and my wife was pregnant with in the United States for decades. Some- principle of insurance that every rookie often very expensive and unaffordable our youngest daughter. We had been how we have tolerated higher infant learns in Insurance 101. That is, the basic to most women. In more than 35 years paying monthly installments to the doc- mortality levels, greater levels of obe- principle of insurance is the pooling and of selling health insurance, I never sold tor to cover the expected cost of the birth. sity and a shorter life expectancy than sharing of risk. That means that when an individual health insurance policy Suddenly in April 1979, we got health many other developed countries. This the risk pool (people pooled together to with a pregnancy rider. insurance that covered those pregnancy not only increases the cost of health care share a particular risk) becomes larger, But if that risk of pregnancy and and maternity expenses and got a refund for everyone, but also makes the United each person’s individual share of that risk maternity expenses had to be included of all but $100, which was our deductible. States less productive. becomes smaller. A second principle of in all health insurance policies; then the Our daughter was born in July 1979. We are all stakeholders in health insurance is that when risk pools are as potential risk pool has been expanded That Supreme Court decision care. What happens to someone else large as possible, the “law of large num- to include everyone, not just women of hardly affected the cost of employer does affect us individually. We need bers” works. That is, when a large number child bearing age. Therefore, according group health insurance. Although to remember that a healthy nation is of people are pooled together and shar- to the basic principle of insurance, one’s health insurance companies could a productive nation and a productive ing common risks, the incidences of that actual “cost” of covering pregnancy and charge higher premiums for women of nation is a prosperous nation. particular risk becomes more predictable maternity expenses is minimal. child bearing age that were included Five Things You May Not Know About Parma by Stefan P. Stefaniuk in the Greater Cleveland area. With walkable Polish Village and Ukrainian So, you think you know Parma? various ongoing improvements that Village commercial districts, a thriving Like most residents, you probably know include the exciting redevelopment 21st century Parma continues to be a that Parma, with over 80,000 residents, of the soon-to-be pedestrian friendly popular community of choice for those is the seventh largest city in Ohio and Shoppes at Parma, two new large mod- who value plentiful services, modern Cleveland's largest suburb. You may ern libraries, and revitalization of the amenities, a competitive cost of living, even know that Parma is commonly city’s increasingly trendy and very and a high quality of life. considered to be the pierogi capital of Ohio and that plastic ornamental fla- mingos, especially those of the pink Cleveland Furniture Bank: variety, seem to decorate many of Par- ma's neatly maintained front lawns. But here are five things you may not first "Guardian City" by updating lan- Furnishing Hope Since 2006 know about Parma, Ohio. guage in its animal-related ordinances Advertorial children also get to select new beds for Parma was recently ranked the to recognize and promote a higher Since opening its doors in 2006, their children as part of the Beds for third safest city in the United States standard of responsibility, care, and The Cleveland Furniture Bank has Kids program. and safest city in Ohio. This ranking, respect for animal companions. In been providing basic home furnishings Along with the client-only show- published by NeighborhoodScout.com doing so, Parma became the 18th city to Northeast Ohioans in need, and as room, the organization’s headquarters which features enterprise-grade data to join the ranks of pet-friendly guard- of the end of last year, has given away also includes a donation intake, sort- for every neighborhood and city in the ian communities. These ranks include 72,975pieces of furniture. In addition, ing and sanitation zone, and a country, includes cities with popula- the cities of San Francisco, Beverly their special Beds for Kids program, 20,000-square-foot retail thrift store tions over 25,000 and is based on the Hills, and West Hollywood, California; started in 2012, has provided 1,853beds that sells new and gently used furni- total number of violent and property Boulder, Colorado; St. Louis, Missouri; to children. ture, clothing, household goods and crimes per 1,000 residents according and Bloomington, Indiana. “We started the Cleveland Fur- other items. All proceeds from thrift to the most recent FBI crime statistics. Parma is shown to be the one of niture Bank because we saw a need store sales make it possible for the Fur- Crime data for Parma shows a crime the top three most popular destina- for individuals working so hard to niture Bank to continue providing to index score of 90 out of 100, indicat- tions for young adults between the get back on their feet to not have the those in need. ing Parma is safer than 90 percent of ages of 25 and 34 according to a recent added burden of buying furniture,” “Furniture donations from com- the cities in the United States, with an report titled "Mapping Human Capi- said Tom Gaghan, executive director, munity members and thrift store sales annual violent crime rate of 0.69 per tal: Where Northeast Ohio's Young Cleveland Furniture Bank. “Since are what enable us to continue provid- 1,000 residents and a property crime and Middle-Age Adults are Migrating." our first year of operation we’ve only ing furniture to those in need. Without rate of 5.57 per 1,000 residents. The Of the top three destinations, a closer seen need for furnishings continue to community support in these ways we total annual crime rate is 6.26 per 1,000 look at the data reveals an increase of grow and recently moved to a larger wouldn’t exist,” Gaghan said. “No mat- residents. 3,148 young adults in Lakewood, 1,842 facility in Middleburg Heights to ter how small, every donation and thrift Parma is consistently rated one in downtown Cleveland, and 1,379 in meet that need.” store sale really makes a difference.” of the best suburban values in the Parma. “Right now, Parma is hot!” says Now headquartered in the South- Northeast Ohioans are encour- Greater Cleveland area according to the report's author, Richey Piiparinen, land Shopping Center, today over aged to visit the Furniture Bank’s thrift Cleveland Magazine’s annual “Rating an urban planning researcher, co-edi- 3,000 individuals are referred to the store at the Southland Shopping Cen- the Suburbs” feature. Other cities that tor of “Rust Belt Chic: A Cleveland organization each year by more than ter, or call (216) 459-2265 to donate made the list include Parma Heights, Anthology,” and senior writer at Belt 300 agencies and organizations in furniture and schedule a pick-up. To Lakewood, Brook Park, Berea, and Magazine. the region. Each person referred gets learn more about donating furniture, North Olmsted. Parma has seen home prices rise to visit the Furniture Bank to select a thrift store hours and opportunities to Parma has taken the lead in by seven percent over the past two gently-used couch, chair, dining room get involved, visit www.clevelandfur- becoming a more pet-friendly destina- years as people continue to buy more set, dresser, bed and lamps from its cli- niturebank.org. tion and distinguished itself as Ohio's homes in Parma than any other suburb ent-only showroom. Individuals with

Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com March, 2014 The Parma Observer Vol 06, Issue 3 Page 9

Perspective Ohio Division Of Unnatural Resources Shoots Self In Foot, Twice by Lucy McKernan misinformation. Cleveland Metroparks’ own head of What we can start with is our The blood trail, some say, leads all In fairness to the DNR powers- natural resources, Terry Robison, DOW, which needs sweeping reform the way to Governor Kasich’s office. that-be, the memo was not put into finally admitted publicly that Ohio such as that recommended by leading Kasich is at the top of the heap of action. But how, according to his hunting is to blame for large, “success- national wildlife biologists: broad- Ohio’s government agencies, not the spokesperson Rob Nichols, was Kasich ful” populations. based funding, not hunter-funding; an least of which is the topic of this article: not aware of the memo when his top As we watch these two state gov- eclectic board instead of one comprised Ohio Division of Natural Resources officials were invited to a special 2012 ernment scandals unfold with the of all hunters; innovative, humane (DNR), recently under fire for two meeting about the very subject of the usual repugnance, it can’t be denied deer “management” like proven birth blatant, wide-ranging scandals. The memo: an official fracking communi- that the DNR’s tentacles reach far from control methods, adaptive/native land- first involves Ohio Inspector General’s cation plan? Columbus, the epicenter of Repug- scaping; driver awareness and public office investigation into 16 to 18 Ohio Since these stories recently broke, nicanism. DNR is mired in the same safety programs; a willingness to inno- Division of Wildlife (DOW) officers - Kasich has distanced himself from abuses as the good-ol’-boys-hunt-club vate less invasive resource extraction and those who supervise them - who fracking, claiming he never endorsed (make that “good-oil-boys”) it’s sup- processes and collaboration with envi- allegedly fudged timesheets while ille- it. On the evening of this writing, posed to regulate. The entire DOW ronmental agencies; transparency; gally killing deer. DNR oversees the Kasich was delivering his “State of the board is comprised of hunters, every accountability through several over- DOW, the very agency paid to regulate State” speech, in which he touts hon- one of them. This is a conflict of inter- sight groups; and, last but not least, hunting and issue poaching penalties. esty, accountability and public trust. est. So is the DNR’s involvement in strict adherence to the spirit of The Second, an Open Public Records The state DNR “regulates” deer fracking. Our state government is very Public Trust Doctrine, which explicitly request procured by the Sierra Club the same way it regulates all other corrupt. states that wildlife belongs to everyone. of Ohio resulted in one very damning natural resources such as natural gas, memo, recently made public by The like a commodity. Deer constitute a Great Lakes Theater Tour Stops At Columbus Dispatch. The memo elabo- multi-million dollar business for Ohio rates, in unequivocal fashion, how the government, often garnering over half East Park Retirement Community of DOW’s annual revenue to the tune DNR was planning a public relations by Kathryn Yates At the end of the play there is campaign to promote hydraulic frac- of tens of millions. The East Park Care Center in a talkback session where the actors, turing, or “fracking.” DNR is supposed Every year in Ohio, hundreds of Brook Park hosted the Great Lakes along with Mr. Keo, collect audience to regulate the industry, not promote thousands of white-tailed deer are Theater production of “Seven Ages” feedback. Dates remaining for the 2014 it. The memo explicitly outlines how unnecessarily killed and suffer from on Friday, February 14th. The event Outreach Tour are: March 3rd (Ole to undermine environmentalists and hunting. Hunting as a means to con- was free to the public and included a Town Hall Theater, North Ridgeville), other opponents’ credibility by por- trol populations is a myth perpetuated three-course meal complete with wine, March 4th (Lakewood Public Library, traying them as extremists spewing by the DOW for profit. Just last week, coffee, and bakery, making it a mid-winter’s night dream for the 112 people DeGeeter Delivers who attended. This was the fifth year the center has hosted the event. 3rd STOC Address The hour-long one- continued from page 1 during and in the aftermath of Hurri- act play is a world premiere The merger between Parma cane Sandy. production billed Seven Community General Hospital and During the speech, DeGeeter also Ages – Seven tales by David Hansen plays the melancholy "Jaques" before University Hospitals. Tens of millions recognized individuals in the audi- seven northeast Ohio play- "Touchstone" (Bobby Williams) trims his beard. of dollars in upgrades are planned for ence who not only illustrate how city wrights. It is performed by four of the Lakewood), and March 5th (Quirk what is now known as University Hos- programs are impacting Parma in a company’s great talents: David Hansen Cultural Center, Cuyahoga Falls). pitals Parma Medical Center. positive way, but show the strength of (also one of the playwrights), Annie “They are all free,” Keo reiterated. “We The opening of the 18,000 square- Parma's residents. "What really makes Peruseck, Emily Pucell, and Bobby tend to say, depending on public venue, foot Watershed Stewadship Center at me optimistic about our future, and Williams. The seven stages of man get there early.” the Cleveland Metroparks' West Creek what truly makes Parma strong, are are presented in a storytelling frame GLT’s next production will be Reservation. The project was made the people in our community," he said. around a campfire as the four seek ref- “Deathtrap” – Broadway’s longest run- possible when the city, the Northeast DeGeeter closed his speech with uge in the woods from a raging storm. ning comic thriller – at the Hanna Ohio Regional Sewer District, and the the story of Shirley Palotai, a U.S.M.C. The play draws from Act II, Scene VII Theater from Feb. 21st – March 16th, West Creek Conservancy teamed with Gunnery Sergeant, and her fifth-grade of Shakespeare’s As You like It which 2014. Tickets start at $15. – students sit the Cleveland Metroparks. son Tyler Miranda, who attends St. begins with the famous monologue in any seat for $13. DeGeeter also discussed ways City Francis de Sales School. The fifth- delivered by Jaques: “All the world’s The East Park Care Center was the Hall is becomig more effective and effi- grader had not seen his mother in some a stage, And all the men and women closest location to Parma on the 2014 cient: time because she had been deployed in merely players.” Outreach Tour schedule and the only Merging administrative opera- Afghanistan for a year. Palotai sur- The show is part of the Great one offering the bounteous free din- tions of Human Resources and the prised her son by showing up for a Lakes Theater’s (GLT) community ner. The dining room was bedecked for Civil Service Commission. school assembly. "Not a dry eye could outreach tour to bring awareness of the Valentine affair and many attend- Pursuing joint purchasing oppor- be found in the gym, including mine," ees were couples having a tunities with surrounding governments said DeGeeter, who concluded his romantic evening shared through the Cuyahoga County Shared remarks to applause by honoring Palo- by friends. After the meal, Services Regional Cooperative. tai. "I want to thank you, Shirley, for Dianna McBee (East Park Saving more than $800,000 in your service, and for your sacrifice for facilitator for the event) just seven months by converting to your country. Your example shows why drew names from attend- automated citywide trash collection. I have so much faith in our city, our ees for the Chinese raffle Recouping $92,000 from state and state, and our country." baskets. Judy Sledz really federal sources for expenses incurred “perked up” after winning Dining room of East Park filled with attendees. a coffee maker then play- fully back-handed hubby its theater productions at the Hanna Jim, a “Tin Can Sailor,” for flashing a BLUE LINE BAR & GRILL and Ohio theaters. “Every year we do pic of his 19-year old sailor self. Other four surround shows and put them on winners were Emma Dunlap and Don for free,” said Tim Keo, a 10-year GLT and Mary Shaffer. Now Open Daily 11:00 A.M. actor and teacher. “There is a season The East Park retirement commu- Food and Drink Specials of five shows – we always do A Christ- nity is located at 6360 Elmdale Rd. in 4305 Brookpark Road mas Carol, two Shakespeares, and two Brook Park and is planning on opening classic plays. We are Cleveland’s classic a memory unit soon. 440-799-4305 company.”

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Citizen Viewpoint Parma Discrimination by Denise Geschwender States (HSUS) Parma Safety Committee Meeting on pit bulls are and always have been I am Vice President of Animal International Association of February 10th, whereas we had a Gov- present in Parma, regardless of the Guardians for a Prosperous Parma. We Animal Behavior Consultants ernment Affairs Consultant from Best ordinance. This further proves that the are a group of concerned and compas- International Association of Friends Animal Society, Lori Kershner, ordinance is unenforceable. sionate individuals, coming together Canine Professionals come forth to disclose further facts as While we are not immune to rec- to urge the Parma Administration not National Animal Control Assoc. to why breed specific legislation is non- ognizing injuries caused by dog bites, to prohibit specific dog breeds. This National Animal Interest Alliance effective. Lori was instrumental in we want to educate the public that ALL practice is not ensuring public safety, National Association of Dog getting HB14 passed in Ohio to remove breeds have a tendency to bite. To state but rather encouraging a false sense of Obedience Instructors pit bulls from the vicious and danger- that a pit bull type dog can cause a security for Parma residents. National Canine Research Council ous breed list. more serious injury than another breed Through the gathering of facts No Kill Advocacy Center The Parma Administration is ada- has been scientifically proven untrue. and evidence to further our cause, I've The White House mant on keeping pit bull type animals Aggression is not hereditary. We have come across multiple residents and out of Parma. They refuse to pro- compassion for ANY person who has even City Council members who are These groups represent the best vide any factual data to support their endured a dog bite, regardless of breed. basing their decisions upon reports of the best in the United States for decision. Mayor DeGeeter has only Data shows that Parma has had a found online through the unreliable dog trainers, rescues, shelters, animal addressed our group one time. He "recorded" dog bite record of 875 from and debunked website of dogsbite.org. behaviorists, government entities, vet- stated that in an April 2012 publica- 2002-2013 that averages to approxi- Dogsbite.org's goal was not public erinarians, and even animal control tion, the Administration stated their mately 7 dog bites per month. Only 3 of education or anything that she claims officers. All of them oppose breed spe- position and stand by that decision. these dog bites were allegedly described it to be about now. It was about enact- cific legislation, in large part, because What he is referring to is: “The ban has as pit bull type dogs. If the pit bull ban ing breed specific legislation even they have experience working with been successful,” DeGeeter said. “In is working in Parma and creating a safe though she has no credentials to pro- the actual dogs, read the science, and my recent memory I don’t recall hear- environment for the residents, then pose legislation like that with any basis realize that aggression is not a breed- ing about any pit bull attacks. I think why are our bite records so extremely of expertise. And make no mistake, all specific issue. The reality is that most that’s due to our ordinance.” high? of the expert organizations disagree dogs, regardless of breed, do not show However, let me point out that We invite individuals to visit our with her idea on breed-specific legisla- aggressive behavior and yet, some dogs, during this meeting, Safety Director website: http://parmaguardians.wix. tion. of each breed, have. Baeppler disclosed a pit bull attack com/agpp and read the facts that we A partial list of organizations All recommend dog ordinances happening in Parma on February 7th. provide and can be substantiated by opposed to laws targeting specific that focus on the behaviors of the He did not disclose any of the details experts. breeds of dogs includes: actual dogs and not on its body type. surrounding this incident. Thank you, American Dog Owners Assoc. Not listening to the professional orga- This contradicts Mayor DeGeeter's Denise Geschwender American Humane nizations, but rather, listening to an previous statement. It also proves that American Kennel Club (AKC) "organization" that has no expertise, is American Society for the Prevention a disservice to those of us focused on of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) the best interest of public safety. Breakfast with the American Veterinary Medical We (Animal Guardians for a Pros- Association (AVMA) perous Parma) and a multitude of other Easter Bunny American Working Dog Federation groups have been presenting credible Association of Pet Dog Trainers facts at every City Council meeting April 12, 2014 Best Friends Animal Society since the beginning of November 2013. Center for Disease Control Our most recent gathering before Humane Society of the United Council and Administration was at a

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Reflections Are Pedestrians Second Class Citizens? by Daniel P. McCarthy gerous, and impassible sidewalks of I will admit, when it comes to Parma that we pedestrians experi- pedestrian and walkability issues, I ence every winter. There are those who am completely biased. Being a strident faithfully comply with the law and advocate for walking, I believe hav- clear their walks, but so many don't ing been struck by an auto while in that it has a tremendous impact on the a crosswalk and bouncing off of the ability to safely walk in most neigh- windshield grants me that right. Walk- borhoods in Parma during the winter ability is a key word these days when months. This causes people of all ages the discussion centers on communities. to engage in an even more dangerous When people are searching for a place activity - walking in the street. to buy a home, walkability is a rating Honestly, I would shovel my side- category in real estate listings, espe- walk in front of my home whether there cially important to young professional was a law or not. I view this as some- couples - a group most sought after by thing we all should do as part of being cities. Our community is no exception. good citizens. The city has a program Parma has over 30,000 homes with a for seniors and disabled people where busy and vibrant real estate market they will clear their walks for them. as a result. Walkability should be rel- How about the rest of the thousands evant all year long, not just in the good of property owners in Parma? I have weather. Suppose I were a prospective included a photo of an elderly woman home buyer in Parma during the win- Here's an elderly Parma resident doing her duty and complying with ordinance that I noticed was shoveling her side- ter months and I decided to take a walk 660.05. If someone like her can see to it, what is wrong with all the younger, able- walk after one of our tremendous around the neighborhood, perhaps to bodied residents who won't? Why isn't the city enforcing our wise law that requires snowfalls recently - she must be at least have a look at the school my Realtor everyone to clear their sidewalks within 12 hours of a snow event? 80 years old. (I would have assisted her, told me was only a few blocks away? nance, 660.05 Duty To Keep Sidewalks the years went by, less and less people but you will notice that she had com- One look at the two foot snowdrifts In Repair And Clean, which states "No bothered to shovel the snow from the pleted the task). If an elderly woman covering the sidewalks in my possi- owner or occupant of lots or lands sidewalks in front of their property. like this can comply with the law then bly new neighborhood would not only abutting any sidewalk, curb or gutter More significantly, the City of Parma what is wrong with every other able- discourage me from venturing any fur- shall fail to keep the sidewalks, curbs seemed to lose interest in enforcing bodied person? What good is a law if ther; I would most likely get in my car and gutters in repair and free from the law requiring everyone, residents not enforced? What kind of message and go to another city, where better snow, ice or any nuisance." This has and businesses, from doing their duty does that send to residents and future walking conditions exist. been a law in Parma since before I was within 12 hours of a snow event. The residents? Are pedestrians second class One such city may very well born, and was followed religiously, as I result has been the snowbound, dan- citizens? be Parma Heights where they have remember. What happened? always had the wisdom to employ a There was a court decision years vehicle which clears the sidewalks in ago involving an insurance company the entire city. As an avid year-round in a personal injury case where it was walker, I can't tell you how splendid decided that the insurance company that is. I easily give Parma Heights was not responsible for covering the an A when it comes to winter walk- injuries in question that had occured 11575 Bookpark Road ability issues. What grade does Parma on an icy sidewalk. The Court made it get? How about an F? This was not clear that this did not relieve citizens always the case. When I was growing from obeying ordinances requiring Senior Menu Starting At up in Parma, for the most part, side- them to clear their sidewalks in any walks were always cleared of snow and given city. Apparently, public per- walkable. In fact, Parma has an ordi- ception differed and I noticed that as $4.99 Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner All-You-Can-Eat Daily Specials Delicious Steaks’n Burgers Expansive Catering Menu www.JordansFood.com

Commercial property at Snow Rd. and Chevrolet Blvd. Not only is the sidewalk 216.267.5353 buried, but they have seen fit to plow the snow from their parking lot where it totally At the corner of Brookpark and Chevy. obstructs the sidewalk. I had witnessed dozens of people, including children, having no choice but to walk in the street at this point. FREE MEAL "Correct the Cause and the Pain goes away Naturally!" Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner (With the purchase of any regular menu item) Dr. Robb J. Baker, D.C. Menu item of equal or lesser value free. Up to $8.00 value 5810 Pearl Rd. with purchase of 2 beverages. One coupon per visit. Parma, Ohio 44130 Coupon may not be combined with any other offer. 440-888-6979 Not valid on All You Can Eat or Senior Meal Present coupon with order. http://docbaker.net Coupon expires 4/1/14

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Congratulations Pleasant Lake Villa for a Deficiency-Free 2013 Ohio Department of Health Survey!

Pleasant Lake Villa Part of the Legacy Health Services Family

Call 440-842-2273 for a Tour! www.lhshealth.com

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