“It is December, and nobody asked if I was ready”- Sarah Kay FREE!

December 2019 TAKE ONE! Vol, 11, Is. 12 Please Patronize Our Advertisers

Shoppes At Parma Has New Owner by Daniel P. McCarthy rooted in the 21st Century concept of what retail looks Allied Development of like today, and therefore the Great Neck, New York has pur- future is considerably brighter chased the 765.000 square feet than it was 8 years ago. Allied's shopping complex known as The purchase is obviously a vote Shoppes at Parma for $81.6 mil- of confidence in the Greater lion dollars, it has been reported. Parma Community, and we Parmatown Station LLC, an should be glad that business affiliate of Prep Property Group, concerns feel so strongly about had redeveloped the former Par- being confident in investing matown Mall through several here. Congratulations to Prep years of intensive reconfigura- Property Group for sticking tion. The results were apparently to their plan and successfully Shoppes at Parma very appealing to Allied Devel- performing the task of sav- opment, as they expressed great investment in Northeast was expanding constantly time, and for a time it didn't ing and re-purposing our vital optimism in what they view as for the New York based com- from what had originally been really look all that good for the retail center. There are still a promising opportunity, with pany. a strip shopping center on future of this place. Since the many questions to be answered 95% of existing space filled and Most people in Parma have Ridgewood Dr. Changes that redevelopment and transfor- concerning plans of the new an additional 10 acres available fond memories and count- occurred from the mid 1990's mation from a traditional mall owners. One of mine is: Will on the property for future retail less stories when they think led to profound decisions on to an open retail community, the Shoppes at Parma name be development. The acquisition of Parmatown Mall. When I the part of the owners at that the space now seems firmly kept? of Shoppes at Parma is the first grew up in the 1960's the mall Local Students Win Young Astronauts Day Competition Script Parma Picture Of The Month by Cindy McNaughton the moon and Mars. We are Young Astronauts Day is On November 9th local proud to announce that Birch- an outreach event of Ameri- students gathered at wood School students met and can Institute of Aeronautics State University for the 27th excelled at these challenges and Astronautics. Each year Annual Young Astronaut Day. winning first place in the team since 1992, NASA Glen They competed in engineer- competition. They also earned Research Center hosts student ing tasks that required them awards individually in the fol- to compete in engineering to work together creating lowing events: and problem solving hands- and testing prototypes over Lego Mindstorms on activities. Their fun events a two-hour period. Students Robotic Arm: James Mamone build enthusiasm among stu- explored the same challenges (8th grade of Parma) & Qiwen dents for STEM (Science, Wu (8th grade of Cleveland)- Technology. The founders of the Parma script sign - the Brennan Family - Pat- that engineers are work- 1st place rick, Sean (Parma City Council President), Colleen and Deena. ing on to get humans back to NASA’s Super Guppy Atremis/Orion Spacecraft Cox Communications by Jim O’Bryan $5,000 Donation Ensures One of Ohio’s most inter- esting industries is Space Impact Local Students Travel. With NASA having a by Carolyn Kovach presence in 4 Ohio cities. This With an past week NASA flew the Arte- increased interest mis/Orion Spacecraft to Plum in the government Brook in Sandusky for testing. process during an The Artemis/Orion will take election year, the City the first woman to the moon, of Parma’s Leadership photos by Jim O’Bryan Jim by photos and then in 2030 on to Mars. for Tomorrow pro- And our friends and neighbors gram takes on new Northern Ohio’s favorite Weather Person Betsy Kling videos the had a huge part in it! levels of relevance in Students ask Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter arrival of the Super Guppy for her blog. its goal of educating to pose for a selfie. Parma City School District fourth graders about provides an additional boost the importance of civic engage- by covering the entire cost of ment. This year, Leadership the program, which encom- for Tomorrow has partnered passes nine visits by eight with the offices of State Rep- public schools in the district. resentative Jeff Crossman and As students explore differ- State Senator Nickie Antonio, ent functions and features of which issued proclamations their local government offices, of support for the program’s Representative Crossman and mission. A $5,000 donation This photo shows the size of the cargo. See all the photos online! from Cox Communications continued on page 6 Interested In Writing For The Observer? - Join Us At Our Public Meeting At Arabica Coffee House (6285 Pearl Rd.) Every Tuesday 7 PM Page 2 The Parma Observer Vol 11, Issue 12 December, 2019

COMMUNITY NEWS

Depot/Office Max in Parma and Mid- delburg Heights, or the Parma Area The President's Corner Chamber of Commerce. by Sean Brennan, Parma City Council President Cash donations may be sent in Nine years ago I read an article others, we have raised thousands of the form of a check made payable to about rising peanut butter prices. The dollars and pounds of peanut butter All Faiths Pantry and mailed to Parma article made me think about growing that have benefitted the needy of our City Council President Sean Brennan, up the son of a single-mother, following community. 6611 Ridge Road, Parma, Ohio, 44129. my father abandoning us. As a young I am happy to report that the ninth Feel free to contact me via email with boy I never thought about why I ate rendition of the Parma Peanut Butter questions at councilmanbrennan@ so much peanut butter, but the article Drive will kick off December 1 and run msn.com. made me realize that it was our main through the end of the year. I am hope- All Faiths Pantry is a simple, source of protein in those lean years ful that you, dear reader, will be moved practical program that delivers nutri- due to its relative affordability. The to give generously to the drive this year. tious groceries to seniors and people article made me concerned for families Although jars of Peanut Butter with limited mobility once a month at like mine growing up. are truly appreciated, All Faith Pantry no cost to the recipients. With direct Smokin’ Good BBQ, the Cuyahoga These thoughts obviously weighed prefers cash donations, as they can pur- deliveries to clients’ homes, the volun- County Public Library System, the on my mind that evening, as I awoke chase peanut butter at wholesale prices, teers at All Faiths are practicing their Parma Observer, Innovative Window at 3:00 am with an epiphany that multiplying the effect of your gift. vision of a community where diverse Cleaning, Sustainawell, Chuppa’s Mar- some might call divine intervention. I Peanut Butter jars may be dropped individuals and groups unite to feed ketplace, Yorktown Service Plaza, and called my good friend John Visnaus- off at one of our special commu- the underserved. Lamar Outdoor. kas, founder and director of All Faiths nity partners: either branch of the Special thanks to the following To find out more about All Faiths Pantry, and proposed the Parma Pea- Cuyahoga County Public Library in sponsors of the Peanut Butter Drive: Pantry, check out their website at www. nut Butter Drive. Thanks to John’s Parma, University Hospitals Parma Office Depot/Office Max, Dollar Bank, allfaithspantry.org. Best wishes to you and encouragement and the generosity of Medical Center, Parma City Hall, Dol- University Hospitals, the Parma Area yours for a wonderful holiday season. many residents, business owners, and lar Bank (5219 Pearl Road), Office Chamber of Commerce, Jones’ Bones Authors To Bring Food Fun To The OBSERVER

Parma • Parma Hts. • Seven Hills Parma Heights Library On December 17 The Parma Observer is a com- by Rick Haase They’ll appear in Meeting Room A of the Divinity with the purpose of infusing munity owned and operated Mark your calendars now for this library, 6206 Pearl Road. Register online the local community using the church citizen based news source. The views and opinions expressed special program at the Parma Heights for the program at Cuyahogalibrary.org. as a venue, for community outreach do not necessarily reflect the branch of the Cuyahoga County Public ERIE HEIGHTS BRASS ENSEM- in all forms of the fine and perform- views and opinions of The BLE – The group will perform in ing arts. It was founded by Greenbriar Library, which you don’t want to miss. Parma Observer staff or our Award-winning authors Fran Golden concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, December Drive residents Fredric and Marlene advertisers. and David G. Molyneaux, former travel 12 with a holiday-themed program. Dray. Mrs. Dray is the principal organ- editor of the Plain Dealer, will visit our Register online at cuyahogalibrary.org. ist of the church, and a retired Parma P.O. Box 29030 library at 7 p.m. Tuesday, December RING THOSE HOLIDAY BELLS City School District music teacher. Parma, Ohio 44129 17 to discuss their latest book, Unique -- The Celebration Ringers will present The Celebration Ringers are a 440.884.7625 • Eats and Eateries of Cleveland, and will a holiday concert at 7 p.m. December 14 community handbell choir dedicated http://parmaobserver.com at Divinity Lutheran Church, 11877 Blos- to taking their music ministry to senior also discuss some of the people who Advisory Board built Cleveland’s most iconic restau- som Avenue, Parma Heights. The concert citizens, churches and other audiences Craig Czepczynski rants. Golden and David G. Molyneaux is presented through Divinity’s Arts in in Northeast Ohio. They typically Lisa Zaremba have been writing and eating their way Action program. It is free and open to the schedule eight to twelve concerts twice George Salo through the Forest City for decades. public. A reception will follow. a year. The group was founded in Bill DeMarco Penny Schultz Arts in Action is a program of 2000 by six people from Strongsville who rang three octaves of borrowed Publisher handbells and has since grown to 18 Daniel P. McCarthy people from seven communities and Editor-In-Chief six churches. The group owns 5-1/2 Stefan P. Stefaniuk octaves of handbells and seven octaves Design and Production AGS Design of hand chimes with percussion instru- ments, keyboard, a public address Advertising Sales 440-884-7625 read the full list online at: parmaobserver.com Writers Sean Brennan Mallory DeTota Joe Germana Rick Haase Lakewood’s #1 choice for interior and exterior John Horton painting Jeremy Jusek Lee Kamps Carolyn Kovach Gene Lovasy Kathryn Mabin Wayne Mesker Davidione Pearl CJ Sheppard Daniel Taddeo Serving Northeast Linda Tas Ohio Homeowners since 1975 Photography Sean Brennan Mallory DeTota Quality Painting. Joe Germana John Horton THAT’S ALL WE DO! Carolyn Kovach Wayne Mesker Jim O’Bryan Davidione Pearl Call us at CJ Sheppard 216-529-0360 for a Free Consultation! The Parma Observer is powered by: neubertpainting.com

Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com December, 2019 The Parma Observer Vol 11, Issue 12 Page 3

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Healing Before The Holidays With Pure Oxygen by CJ Sheppard Center at UH Parma Medical Center Ken Sikora lay in the hyperbaric can safely treat and heal wounds and oxygen chamber, dozing on and off ulcers. Ken endured two courses of IV while breathing 100 percent oxygen. antibiotics that failed to heal his wound With each breath, the oxygen traveled – until he tried hyperbaric oxygen ther- through Ken’s tissues, delivering heal- apy. “The people at the Wound Care Hyperbaric oxygen therapy delivers healing properties of 100 percent oxygen by an ing properties to the deep wound in his Center are a wonderful caring group of experienced staff at the Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Center at UH Parma big toe. A diabetic with poor blood cir- people,” says the Seven Hills resident. Medical Center. culation and feeling in his feet, Ken was “The treatment I received there was unaware that the new boots he received spectacular. They treated me as if I was care of patients with chronic, non- carry more oxygen to the body's tissues. last Christmas were causing an ulcer on family, it was just really terrific.” healing wounds,” says Dr. Halpert, This improves microcirculation and also his great toe. Mary Alice, his wife of 45 Ken was admitted to UH Parma adding that patients can see a variety stimulates growth factor production, years, was the first to notice the hole in Medical Center with an abscess on of specialists, including doctors and which stimulates healing.” the bottom of his left foot, which was his great toe. A PICC line was placed nurses who specialize in the care and Medicare and other insurances have so deep that the bone was visible. An to administer IV antibiotics over the treatment of infectious diseases. “It’s approved coverage for hyperbaric oxy- estimated 30 million Americans suffer next month. Discharged from the hos- really a one-stop-shop, which makes it gen therapy for many types of chronic, from diabetes, and 25 percent of dia- pital after 10 days, Ken was referred by more convenient for the patient.” non-healing wounds, including diabetic betics will develop a foot ulcer in their Podiatrist Jeffrey A. Halpert, DPM, for Ken was among the first patients to wounds of the legs and feet, wounds lifetime. Untreated ulcers can lead to follow-up care at the Wound Center experience the effectiveness of hyperbaric and irritations to the skin and bones amputations, which can drive up the on the ground floor of Medical Arts oxygen in the new monoplace chambers. caused by radiation therapy such as soft mortality rate. Center 2, adjacent to UH Parma Medi- Located across from the Wound Cen- tissue radionecrosis and osteoradione- ter in the hyperbaric suite that opened crosis, bone infections that don’t heal For patients like Ken, the outpatient cal Center. “The Wound Center is the Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine optimal place for multidisciplinary in the Spring of 2019, the two pressur- from antibiotics, skin grafts that don’t ized chambers offer privacy and comfort take, and more. Hyperbaric oxygen is while patients breath in 100 percent oxy- also covered for diagnoses such as crush UH Parma Medical Center Opens Clinic gen. Once inside the chambers, patients and traumatic injuries and suturing of lay down and can sleep or watch televi- severed limbs, acute peripheral arterial To Track, Treat Lung Nodules sion. Staff stays close by to ensure patient ischemia, gas gangrene and more. “It by CJ Sheppard Suite 205, will ensure that patients are comfort. “Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was two hours out of every day, but the Lung nodules detected on chest seen quickly and continually tracked is a great adjunct therapy, which we are results were phenomenal,” said Ken, who X-rays and CT scans, such as coronary to receive follow-up care. “The Lung excited to offer to our patients in addition is walking again without any problems. calcium scoring, will receive expedited Nodule Center at UH Parma allows to the advanced wound care provided at “Those treatments in that chamber really care through the new Lung Nodule patients expedited access to the high- our Center,”said Clinical Nurse Man- healed the wound beautifully.” Center at University Hospitals Parma est-quality academic care in the heart agerLisa Martinis, RN. “While in the To make an appointment at the Medical Center. The Center, located of our community,” says James Hill, chamber, the patient breathes 100 per- Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine within UH Parma’s Community cent pure oxygen, allowing the blood to Center, or to learn more, call 440-743-4774. Care Clinic in Medical Arts Center 1, continued on page 5

Nationally recognized UH care – right in your neighborhood.

University Hospitals Parma Medical Center has always provided high-quality, expert and personalized care to our community. We’re proud to say it’s also some of the highest quality care in the nation.

Excellence in Healthcare 2018 & 2019 Five-Star Quality Rated Hospital 2019 Granted Provisional Level III Adult Trauma Center Status 2019 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade ‘A’ 2019 American Heart Association / American Stroke Association Stroke Gold Plus & Target: Stroke Elite Plus Award

Experience exceptional care yourself. To schedule an appointment, call 440-459-0200 or visit UHhospitals.org/Parma.

© 2019 University Hospitals Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com Page 4 The Parma Observer Vol 11, Issue 12 December, 2019

OBSERVER

Ask yourselves: How often do we laugh together? Have fun together? Enjoy being with each other? Also try this In your home and family: Cook dinner together, with each family member preparing a dish. Then, for a fun change, eat dessert first. In your neighborhood and com- munity: Invite your child’s friend and his or her family over for an evening of family time—movies, games, popcorn and other treats. nothing special to do,” according to In your school and youth program: Asset Corner #120 by Gene Lovasy Search Institute surveys. Protecting Avoid scheduling practices or meetings young people from risky behaviors and that conflict with the dinner hour. It’s helping them develop positive behavior important for families to eat together. December’s Asset Category: This column’s focus will be on….. is easier when you spend time together Visit www.parmacityschools.org/ CONSTRUCTIVE USE OF TIME. All Asset #20 - Time At Home as a family. character, www.search-institute.org/ work and no play can be boring and Quality time as a family Tips for building this asset assets for more information about the stressful. The pace of everyday life var- Work, school, activities, friends, Simply start spending time 40 Developmental Assets and ideas for ies depending on the activities young and other obligations can at times together: First, choose an activity the helping young people build them. Or go people participate in. These fluctua- pull family members apart rather than entire family enjoys. Then, commit to here http://www.parentfurther.com/ tions are normal, even healthy. As long bring them together. You don’t neces- do the activity together one evening a for great asset-based parenting tips, as young people don’t consistently have sarily have to change activities to find week. Decide if you want to continue tricks, activities and ideas. too much to do or not enough to do, family time. Just be creative. the activity or try something different. they’re right on track. Problems arise Here are the facts when the balance begins to tip too Research shows spending quality Democrats Detail “Family First” Legislation far to one side or the other. Too much time together as a family helps young by Mallory DeTota and makes it easier for military fami- involvement can lead to stress or anxi- people strengthen skills such as lead- At a recent media event at the Ohio lies caring for a loved one with special ety. Too little involvement can be a sign ership, good health, and success in Statehouse, members of the Ohio House needs; to apply for Medicaid services. of depression or isolation. Ensure that school. About 51 percent of young peo- Democratic caucus outlined their legis- Additional proposals focus on young people constructively use their ple, ages 11–18, spend no more than lative successes so far in this General eldercare and Ohio’s senior population, time for both fun and learning. two nights a week with friends “with Assembly with respect to “family first” with bills to establish training stan- legislation. According to the legisla- dards for dementia care, simplify and UH Parma Medical Center Opens Clinic tors, they intend to continue pressing streamline the application for SNAP additional family focused legislation as and other benefits, and to improve To Track, Treat Lung Nodules part of the “Ohio Promise” framework quality of life at nursing homes. “It’s continued from page 3 rolled out earlier in the year. critical for lawmakers to understand MD, Associate Chief Medical Officer at According to Democratic House many of the issues facing our elderly UH Parma Medical Center. Leader Emilia Sykes (D-Akron), Dem- populations, especially those with The first of its kind in the UH ocratic legislators have been working to chronic diseases,” said Rep. Stephanie system, the Lung Nodule Center is craft legislation that demonstrates their Howse (D-Cleveland), who introduced overseen by Medical Directors Basel commitment to families. According to a bill to better care for Ohioans living Altaqi, MD, and Daniel Iltchev, MD. Minority Leader Sykes, the Republican with dementia. “By having these con- Special appointment openings will be majority’s priorities have been “mis- versations, we can better serve seniors reserved for these patients to ensure placed” in focusing on “legislation that and the elderly and connect families that they are seen within a week of Lynda Boldt, CNP, of UH Parma Medi- people have not asked for. That’s why with the resources they need to care for discovery of a lung nodule. Certified cal Center's Community Care Clinic, our caucus put forth the Ohio Promise their loved ones.” Nurse Practitioner Lynda Boldt, CNP, sees patients with recently detected lung this past spring, so we could focus on Parma Representative Jeff Cross- will initially evaluate each patient, nodules and refers to the appropriate the issues people care about.” man presented details regarding his then refer them to the appropriate specialists, including Pulmonologists Sykes pointed to a number of Dem- House Bill 390 also known as the specialist, such as a pulmonologist for like Basel Altaqi, MD, left, or Thoracic ocratic-backed family first bills that Pre-existing Condition Protection bronchoscopy, interventional radiol- Surgeon Chistopher Towe, MD. already cleared the House, including Act. Rep. Crossman filed the bill in ogy for biopsy or additional scanning, proposals to establish the Kinship Care an effort to protect the healthcare for or thoracic surgeon Christopher Towe, Navigators Program, which supports approximately 2 million Ohioans that MD, for removal. The Lung Nodule have lung nodules that are not neces- foster families, improves maternal could lose their healthcare, in the event Center has established a lung nod- sarily tracked and treated. Through health, creates the state’s first-ever read the rest of this story online at: ule registry to track these patients this registry, she will be able to deter- Children’s Behavioral Health Network, parmaobserver.com and ensure follow-up. Patients will mine the right practitioner to follow continue to be seen by their regular up for treatment based on the nodule’s primary care providers for all other size, location and characteristics. Risk medical care. Boldt notes that an esti- factors such as smoking and a family Crime Tip Line (440) 887-7340 history of cancer also are considered. mated 50,000 patients across the region [email protected] www.cityofparmapolice.com Emergency – 911 We work for you Non Emergency - (440) 885-1234

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Proudly serving the communities of PARMA, PARMA HEIGHTS AND SEVEN HILLS #PCSDProud PEA Food Drive helps families in What’s Happening in the need this holiday season Parma City School District by Dan Rajkovich We Need Your Input! The final Strategic Consolidation meeting will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2019 at Parma City School District’s Administrative Offices, 5311 Longwood Avenue. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. The community is encouraged to attend to provide input on the future of the district’s facilities. Upcoming Board of Education Meetings All Board of Education meetings will be held in the Board Meeting Room at Parma City School District’s Administrative Offices, 5311 Longwood Avenue. Meetings begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. The Board of Education meetings for December 2019 are as follows: • Tuesday, December 10, 2019 - Board of Education Work Session • Thursday, December 19, 2019 - Regular Board of Education Meeting Operation Toy Soldier Collection The Parma City School District is proud to be a drop-off location for Operation Toy Soldier this year. In partnership with American Legion Post 703 in Parma Heights and Yurch Funeral Home, PCSD’s Administrative Offices will be collecting toys from November 18 – December 18, 2019. The -com munity is invited to drop off unwrapped toys to 5311 Longwood Avenue from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. There is a bin located in the lobby for all donations. Thank you! Parma Parent University - Crisis Prevention Intervention Dec. 5 Join PCSD for the next Parma Parent University, free parenting workshops each month for families with children enrolled in the district. The next topic is Crisis Prevention Intervention: What Parents Need to Know. The session will be held at Parma Senior High School at 6 p.m. Visit www.parmacityschools.org/parentuniversity for more information. Sign Up for PCSD’s Weekly Newsletter Like what you see? Get more news from Parma City School District right to your email box each week! Sign up for the Monday Morning Monitor, the district’s weekly newsletter, at www.parmacityschools.org/monitor. Veterans Day Celebrations 2019

by Amy Popik families to help them have a full pantry during the winter months. The holiday season is the perfect time to give “PEA does this in an effort to bring the thanks and give back. school community together and support those Every year, students, families and staff get into who live in our community,” Olexa shared. “It the giving spirit and generously donate to the is important to give back because it gives us a annual Parma Education Association Food chance to help those we go to school with and Drive. All donations directly benefit those in numerous others in the community. The event need in the communities Parma City School gives students a chance to see their kindness in District proudly serves. action.” The PEA Food Drive is a long-standing tra- Students and staff not only donated food but dition in the PCSD, and this year, the district- also made posters, helped pack items and even wide collection was held from November 1 – 8. held contests and competitions to help make On November 8, schools dropped off their the food drive a success. donations to the Parma Hunger Center located One student at Hillside donated over 100 at the Parma Lutheran Church. PEA and PTA cans of food and other non-perishable food volunteers sorted, packaged and labeled all do- items in just one day! nations for families. “The outpouring of food donations, mon- “The food drive was amazing this year,” etary giving and helping hands was remark- expressed Will Olexa, a third-grade teacher able,” he conveyed. “It is a fabulous and fulfill- at Green Valley Elementary School and the ing feeling to see all the donations come in year community relations chair for PEA. “Some after year. It makes me proud of all those who standout donations came from Hillside Middle helped through donating, giving time, promot- School and Pleasant Valley Elementary School ing, collecting, sorting and organizing at the with at least three to four carloads each. All building levels.” other schools had at least two carloads.” Families can get help year-round at the With these plentiful and benevolent dona- Parma Hunger Center. tions, 67 families received six boxes of a vari- “The need is great is Parma, Parma Heights ety of food including two boxes of vegetables, and Seven Hills and the assistance is greatly one box of soup, one box of starches, one box appreciated,” Olexa expressed. “I am proud to of fruit/dessert and one box of meats/proteins. be part of such a kind and thoughtful school Veterans Day in the Parma City School Schools throughout the district held a vari- Each family also received a bag of supplies like district.” District was a special time where students ety of programs, special events and activities paper towels, toilet paper and tissues and a $20 View photos from the PEA Food Drive at and staff honored and recognized the brave to salute the heroes of our country. gift card. www.parmacityschools.org/monitor. men and women who have fearlessly served in To read the full story and view a photo gallery, Over 400 boxes of food were donated to the Armed Forces. visit www.parmacityschools.org/monitor.

PARMA CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT 5311 Longwood Avenue Parma, OH 44134 | (440) 842-5300 | www.parmacityschools.org Facebook: Parma City School District | Twitter: @ParmaSchools | Instagram: @ParmaSchools

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INSPIRATION I Believe by Daniel Taddeo urrection is the most certain fact in all Blank Stares And Hope A difficult past can be overcome by of history. It is not what other people by Wayne Mesker continuing to move on. A good friend is think of us, it is what we think of our- On November 20th my son Bill cheaper than therapy. As far as possible, selves. Nurture strength of spirit to and I traveled to Pittsburgh to meet Jay without surrender, be on good terms shield us in sudden misfortunes. Obe- Allen where we witnessed a very special with all people. Biblical baptism requires dience to God’s commandments is an performance of his song Blank Stares. choice, faith, repentance, and commit- expression of our love for Him. Jay had been watching his mother fight ment on the part of the participant. Every True morality is generated internally her battle with Early-Onset Alzheimer's aspect of our lives should be so ordered as from a heart of gratitude and love for for the last 5 years seeing her memory to glorify God in whatever we think, say, God and His Word. We should recount and her personality continue to slip and do. Friends are those rare people who all of our blessings and share our burdens away. Sadly at the young age of 55 she ask how you are and wait for an answer. with God. When Jesus makes His second lost that battle this past February. Jay God is “ready to forgive” every- appearance, everything will be subjected wrote Blank Stares to honor his mother one. He will never turn away those who to Him. When we choose not to follow and to share some of the pain that fam- approach Him with repentant hearts. God, He does not abandon us, but does ilies and Care Partners face. The video of Jay singing this song with his mother If we are looking for trouble, we allow us to go our own way. When we like Jay or the millions of Care Partners on stage has been viewed Millions of will soon find it. If we are not happy speak, our words should center on “that the world over that are playing a vital times around the world. His perfor- single, we will not be happy married. which is good to edify” and lift people up. role in the lives of their loved ones who mance at the Transform Aging Town The same principle applies to having Self-reflection is always a good are fighting this battle. God Bless all of Hall was more a Prayer than a song children. If we compare ourselves with exercise. What I believe is a work in them. The opportunity to meet Jay was and it touched me on a personal level. I others, we could become vain and bit- progress, not limited to these state- made possible by the Clearfield County applaud his courage as he continues to ter—not a good thing to do. It is not ments and subject to change. What do Area Agency on Aging.CCAAA Direc- perform this tribute because I felt his too much to proclaim that Christ’s res- YOU believe? tor Kathryn Gillespie teamed up with sadness and realized that it must break Dr. Bill Thomas founder of Changing Cox Communications $5,000 Donation his heart every time he does. I know it Aging and designer of MINKA Age / broke mine. Ensures Impact Local Students Dementia Friendly housing units in As an Advocate/Activist for people order to create the Village of Hope. continued from page 1 cial in a close-knit community like living with Dementia my knowledge Parma. “The City of Parma and Cox I will be inter-acting with them and Senator Antonio will provide an extra and understanding cannot compare Communication’s commitment to pro- closely following their progress. Dr. layer of insight into what it means to with the personal experience of people viding students with unfettered access Thomas and I have been friends since perform the duties of an elected offi- to their local government operations I became part of the Alive Inside Foun- represents a tremendous opportunity dation. It was good to have the chance for our young people,” Representative tremendous influence on the com- to see him again and also to make a Crossman said. “Senator Antonio and munity and its students,” said Robert connection with Kathryn.I know that This is a Medicare Supplement insurance solicitation. A licensed insurance agent/ producer may contact you. I are excited to participate and help Brill, market vice president for Cox given the prospect of addressing the needs of a growing Aging population Questions about your Medicare options? Parma students gain an appreciation Communications “With the important for what it means to be engaged in the jobs our municipal leaders hold, Cox is our Tri-City area of Parma,Parma Your Medicare choices civic process.” thrilled to see the exposure this pro- Heights and Seven Hills could defi- Lynda Parker can seem overwhelming. Unit Field Trainer - nitely benefit from a project such as Insurance Agent Let me help you find a Medicare Cofounders of the Leadership for gram provides local students, year after Supplement insurance policy that this ideally as part of the Westcreek helps fit your needs and offers you Tomorrow program – City Treasurer year.” The program brings local fourth more complete benefits. graders to Parma City Hall, where stu- Conservancy project to Re-Purpose Give me a call today! Tom Mastroianni, Parma Mayor Tim direct: (440) 455-7184 dents hold a mock city council meeting Parmadale. That is an idea I plan to cell: 440-785-3586 DeGeeter and the late Anthony Zielin- [email protected] ski, who preceded Mastroianni as city about an issue the class has chosen to present to the Mayors and Administra-

Medicare Supplement insurance is issued on Policy Form Numbers CPL-GR-A95A; CPL-GR-A95B; CPL-GR-A95C; CPL- tions of all 3 cities and the West Creek GR-A95D, CPL-GR-A95F; CPL-GR-A95FH; CPL-GR-A95G; CPL-GR-A95K; CPL-GR-A95L; CPL-GR-A95M; CPL-GR-A95N treasurer – wanted to help school-age consider. The students then travel to by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company. Plans subject to state availability. Medicare Supplement insurance policies are underwritten by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company. COLONIAL PENN, the Parma Justice Center, where they people as well. BANKERS LIFE AND THEIR LICENSED AGENTS/PRODUCERS ARE NOT CONNECTED WITH OR ENDORSED BY THE US children learn about how local gov- GOVERNMENT OR THE FEDERAL MEDICARE PROGRAM. This policy has exclusions and limitations. For costs and complete details of the coverage, contact your insurance Stay Tuned agent/producer. learn about the court system. The contact information provided is for a registered insurance agent who represents Bankers Life and Casualty ernment works. Cox Communications Company and is authorized to sell Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company products. This advertisement is authorized by Bankers Life and Casualty Company. You may contact the Ohio Department of Blessed Holidays to All Insurance to confirm that Bankers Life and Casualty Company, Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company, and their agents are licensed to do business in Ohio. is a proud supporter of the program

Bankers Life is the marketing brand of Bankers Life and Casualty Company, Medicare Supplement insurance policies sold by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company and select policies sold in New York by Bankers Conseco Life Insurance and partner to the city in its efforts to Company (BCLIC). BCLIC is authorized to sell insurance in New York. Underwritten by Colonial Penn Life Insurance Company help young people see possible future Faith Community Directory Admin Office: 111 E. Wacker, 2100, Chicago, IL 60601 312.396.6000 careers in a municipal setting. “Leader- BankersLife.com © 2019 Bankers Life (04/19) 180519 ship for Tomorrow continues to wield 155854-OH Christ the Saviour American Orthodox Church 10000 State Road N. Royalton, OH 440-237-9196 christsaviour.weebly.com All Faiths Pantry Danny's Auto Service P.O. Box 34239 Parma, OH 44134 216-496-4329 Domestic / Foreign ASE certi ed allfaithspantry.org Light Trucks Bethlehem Lutheran Church 7500 State Rd. Parma, OH 440-845-2230 www.BethlehemLutheranChurchParma.com Meyers Snowplow Parts And Service Divinity Lutheran Church 11877 Blossom Ave. Parma Hts., OH 44130, 440-845-2060 O www.divinitylutheran.com The Islamic Center of Cleveland 6055 W. 130th St. Parma, OH 44130 216-362-0786 Strengthening the community www.iccleveland.org of Parma through networking, Ridgewood United Methodist Church activism, and local pride. 6330 Ridge Rd. Parma, OH 44129 440-885-1360 www.ridgewoodumc.org ParmaYPs.com St. Bridget’s of Kildare Church 5620 Hauserman Rd. Parma, OH 44130 440-886-4434 #ThisIsParma www.Stbridgetparma.com Holy Family Catholic Church ParmaYPs @YPParma @follow_floyd_of_parma 7367 York Rd. Parma, OH 44130 440-842-5533 www,holyfamparma.org Parma Christian Church 7000 Ridge Rd., Parma, Ohio 44129, 440-842-1614 www.parmachristianchurch.org meet. share. network. change.

Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com December, 2019 The Parma Observer Vol 11, Issue 12 Page 7

NEIGHBORHOODS

help: 1) Plant trees. You can buy seeds, Let's Plant Trees In Parma– which are relatively cheap, or pur- chase from a nursery. If you are not a There Are Excellent Economic Benefits homeowner, consider donating to an by Jeremy Jusek on greenery to make neighborhoods current canopy it would cost taxpayers environmental group that plants trees When I first moved to Parma, one look and feel inviting. Trees also reduce $800,000 each year. for you. There are plenty of valid chari- of the first things I did was plant three water and pollution damage to infra- In terms of climate change, plant- ties online. trees in my front yard. This choice structure. Parma, a city which badly ing trees is a wonderful means of 2) Contact your city counselor. wasn't environmentally motivated. needs to address its water runoff and prolonging its worst effects. Planting They will not act unless we ask! I'd simply grown up around trees and sewer line issues, would greatly benefit trees on 0.9 billion hectares of land There is zero point in being defeat- missed the greenery. Eight years later from having trees reduce the amount could trap two-thirds of the carbon ist about climate change or poo-pooing my Red Maple has doubled in size and of water entering our pipes and getting emitted since the Industrial Revolu- the impact of our actions. Now is the offers enough shade to picnic with my processed at the treatment plant. tion. Most importantly, methane—a time to create the kind of world we kids on the lawn. The two cherry blos- Trees also matter to young home greenhouse gas 23 times as potent as want our children to inherit. soms on the treelawn flower each year buyers looking to start families, the carbon dioxide—is absorbed by cer- Sources: with beautiful white and pink petals, very demographic Cleveland should tain types of trees like pine,spruce, and https://www.natureworld- before quietly shedding their spring want to attract the most to safeguard birch. news.com/articles/439/20121226/ coat and switching to photosynthe- its long-term economic health. Envi- That’s all a lot of numbers. Here’s christmas-trees-absorb-greenhouse- sis full-time. To me this is relief. My ronmentally-conscious of impending a simple one: the EPA found that gas-methane-study.htm road, Maplecrest, is curiously short of climate change, millennials are far depending on where you live, every https://www.businessinsider. maples. It's short of trees, period. more likely to buy homes in green dollar invested in planting trees pro- com/millennials-buying-a-lot-more- According to the Cuyahoga areas. This is important because the vided a ROI ranging from $1.50 to $3. homes-than-you-think-2018-4 County Planning Commission, the rate of home ownership by adults I believe the answer is twofold: we https://www.cleveland.com/ list of benefits for planting more trees under the age of 35 is nearly 40% and is need to demand the local government opinion/index.ssf/2017/04/planting_ include "improving water quality, climbing every year. launch a green initiative and we must thousands_of_trees_in.html reducing erosion, reducing stormwa- The trees we do have offer mea- take it upon ourselves to plant more. https://www.sciencenews.org/ ter runoff, saving energy, lowering city surable benefits. Among others, our Roughly 75% of Cleveland land is article/planting-trees-could-buy- temperatures, reducing air pollution, trees save Cleveland property owners privately-owned, which means govern- more-time-fight-climate-change- enhancing property values, providing $3.5million in energy costs annually, ment initiatives alone will not improve thought wildlife habitat, facilitating social and they intercept 1.8 billion gallons of the problem. It is not upon Parma’s http://cityofparma-oh.gov/ educational opportunities, and pro- rainwater (valued at $11 million if citizens to solve climate change, but en-US/City-Council.aspx viding aesthetic benefits." If the city released into our sewer systems), they it is up to us to contribute to the fight http://www.countyplanning.us/ of Cleveland were to increase our tree prevent upwards of 1,200 incidents of against it. Every tree counts. And even projects/urban-tree-canopy-assess- canopy from its current 19% coverage health problems including asthma, dia- if you believe climate change’s worst ment/ to 30%, the economic and social value betes, and mental health, and remove effects are overblown, I urge you to http://www.city.cleveland.oh.us/ of land in Cleveland would rise from 42,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year. consider the potential financial ben- sites/default/files/forms_publications/ $28 millionannually to $42 million, a If we relied on CO2 capture methods to efits listed above. ClevelandTreePlan.pdf hefty 50% increase. Home values rely clean up the pollution captured by our There are two things you can do to

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Culture Wars And Christmas Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com Lee Kamps

Much has been said in the media over the past decades about the “cul- Page 8 The Parma Observer Vol 11, Issue 12 December, 2019

PERSPECTIVE

endar. Just take a look around Parma Culture Wars And Christmas for example of that change which has occurred in my lifetime. by Lee Kamps may be spoken in the United States. ies from Spain and Italy. St. Nicholas, When I was growing up in Parma, the Much has been said in the media over In many respects our Christmas who became the archetype for Santa big divide was whether one was Roman the past decades about the “culture wars” traditions that most Americans cel- Claus was a man from modern day Tur- Catholic or not. Ridge Brook elementary in the United States. I believe that this is a ebrate come from different countries. key. But different cultural traditions of school where I attended was all white. The bogus issue. The United States is a nation The putting up of a Christmas tree Christmas have found themselves rep- cultural difference was based on ethnic composed of many different cultures indoors comes from northern Europe resented in the United States. groups; whether one’s family was Polish from all over the world. It was recently where evergreen trees were revered However the United States in the or Italian or some other mix. But no one reported that there are more than 300 because they stayed green through the 21st century is much different than made a big deal over that. Several years different languages spoken in the United winter. The lights on the tree are sup- the United States of 100 or 200 years after I graduated from Valley Forge High States. Many are obscure native American posed to represent the stars in the ago. More immigrants have settled School I was living in South Carolina. I languages only spoken by a few tribes, but heavens. Other traditions of the season here from non Christian regions where was showing a friend of mine the year- practically every language in the world come from other lands such as luminar- December 25 is another day on the cal- book from my senior year at Valley Forge High School and her comment was “that Cuba: A Vibrant Tapestry Shrouded In Iron Curtains is awfully big for a private school”. To her by Davidione Pearl tural and financial shutdown between and wide across the world and have any school that was that new, that clean There is a stretch of contested land the United States and Cuba by means helped to link them well on the road of and all white had to be a private school. rising out of the Caribbean ninety of sweeping embargoes orchestrated progress despite continued American But that was Parma fifty three years ago. miles south of the Florida Keys, at a through American policy. sanctions. Looking around Parma, the city if very neighboring latitude/longitude of Far from perfect, Cuba would The heart of Pinar del Rio how- the home of the largest Islamic Center in 21.5218 N/77.7812 W. A nation remark- however fully blossom and culturally ever is her world-class artists; at any the state of Ohio. It is a beautiful build- ably close in proximity to our own, thrive on her own, with vast amounts given moment you can hear the pulsat- ing that looks like it was dropped from yet so incredibly distant in what we of state sponsored assets that would ing Afro-Spanish variances of Rumba the Middle East. There is also a vibrant have historically been permitted to unremittingly be earmarked and rhythms in and around her every cor- Indian community in Parma as well as know of one another beyond the Iron apportioned directly into medicine, ner, effortlessly played by friends that a large Hindu temple in Parma as well. Curtain and the Cold War campaign social services, and the arts. Arts and have held each other up in honor since Change is never easy. In 1925 a - a virulent posturing of superpower culture soon became one of Cuba’s their early years as children at the high school biology teacher in Tennes- ideologies on the world stage by the most lasting exports unto the world, very beginning of their artistic jour- see was arrested for teaching Charles United States and former Soviet Union, with entire communities subsisting on neys. You can wander down any of her Darwin’s theory of evolution. The which culminated in a bitter debilitat- government supported arts programs streets and find visual artists quietly ensuing “monkey trial’ captivated the ing twentieth century military and within the country, and their wider immersed in the intensity of their cur- nation as science and religion clashed. political standoff over allegiance and audiences abroad. rent projects, or performance artists control of her shores. This nation, One such community are the art- hard at work rehearsing lines in prepa- continued on page 9 The Republic of Cuba, consequently ists of Pinar del Rio. Located 163 km ration for a wide found herself in the midst of a severe west of the capital Havana, the city of array of upcom- push-pull dynamic between The Soviet Pinar del Rio evinces one immediately ing musicals at Union and United States, and would to a time that bridges antiquity with Teatro Mila- ultimately be used by the U.S and the modern day – from antique 1950s nes. If there is U.S.S.R as the pretext and catalyst to lay American motorcars still on the road one word that the groundwork towards what would today (not particularly as a result of would sum become the single-most largest scale an avid national movement of collec- up the artis- arms race in the history of the world, tor’s passions, but of necessity itself), tic essence of with the central pursuit being the to eye popping vibrant pastels awash Pinar del Rio development of nuclear warheads and every inch of available dry stone across and Cuba her- their delivery systems. Her developing the brilliance that is their predomi- self, it would leader at the time, Fidel Castro, would nant Art Deco architecture. A raw be none other eventually align with Soviet support vibrant beauty mixed in with modern than, Guara- and a campaign of armed insurrection, accoutrements like any other develop- pachanga. La which triggered an immediate cul- ing nation, as their allies extend far Guarapachanga is an annual week long Thank you Ward 5 voters for music festival in Pinar del Rio that cele- allowing me to have the privilege of brates Cubanity both local and continuing to serve and represent abroad, with (216) 505-0310 many inter- all people in Ward 5 national 5546 Pearl Road performers of Parma, Ohio 44129 Cuban heritage Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays returning home each April and Happy New Year to to celebrate Allan J. Divis ZachariasLaw.com Parma Councilman Ward 5 continued on everyone in the Parma Community page 9

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PERSPECTIVE

Cuba: A Vibrant Tapestry Shrouded In Iron Curtains For a great many years, we Americans have allowed the nature of our under- continued from page 8 is a language of giving, we could even and overall harmonic national tone. standing to often be expropriated by the together in the spirit of performance say a language of love. That is to say, what they have uncov- directives of those that have decided to with former teachers and classmates. The Republic of Cuba has forged ered through embracing all lineages deem what is better for us as a result of The community delights in all-day in no uncertain terms, a unique path of heritage that have made Cuba the political agenda. Be that as it may, we are workshops throughout the city, and though the power of art to more effec- cultural beacon it is today, is the very now thirty long years removed from the evening performances highlighting tively neutralize even the effects of thing that rendered racial tensions Cold War; may we each reach deep inside some of the most sought-after art- racism itself, as all Cubans, no mat- less prominent: love and acceptance to a more natural state of warmth, connec- ists from across the island nation and ter their tint of hue dark or light, fully of one another, the essence and vital- tion, compassion, and reason, and release those living abroad. What is particu- and zealously embrace their essential ity of ancestral co-assembly through ourselves from outdated antiquated fears larly warming is to bear witness to the bloodline roots of African, European, a shared heritage, and celebrating the against our lovely island neighbors to the phenomenal caliber of up and coming and Indigenous heritage. This collec- binding of our bloodlines at key points south, to more fully live the eternal lessons young Cuban musicians during the fes- tive acceptance of their wide-ranging in history that has made the world and depth of what we know to be true at tival, their work especially, is nothing forebears is proudly exhibited vig- what it is today. the heart of our good books… short of absolutely bedazzling. The arts orously through their music, dance, Culture Wars And Christmas Valley Forge Alum Graduates From continued from page 8 became known as “Bloody Sunday”. I Basic Military Training and is a 2019 graduate of Valley Forge But that law remained on the books saw the house where Martin Luther King by Linda Tas San Antonio-U.S. Air Force Air- High School, Parma Heights. until 1968 in Tennessee. Jr once lived in Montgomery that was man Sutone Napoleon Tasavanh Change is never easy. This past fire bombed several times. I also visited graduated from basic military training spring I took a trip to Alabama where a Baptist church in Birmingham where a at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, I visited the cities of Montgomery bomb exploded on a Sunday morning in San Antonio, Texas. The Airman and Birmingham. During my lifetime September 1963 killing four girls. completed an intensive, eight-week those cities saw radical change as the But things did change. Integration program that included training in mil- Jim Crow south changed and inte- became the law of the land and eventu- itary discipline and studies, Air Force grated. But that change didn’t come ally people did move on. Alabama has core values, physical fitness, and basic easy. Change was met by violence. I vis- changed and it is a credit to that state warfare principles and skills. Air- ited a black church in Birmingham that that they have not sugar coated its his- men who complete basic training also was fire bombed three times, the first tory of violence and racism. earn four credits toward an associate one being on Christmas Day. So let us celebrate our diversity in applied science degree through the I crossed over the Edmund Pettis instead of desiring for a past that really Community College of the Air Force. Bridge in Selma where people peacefully never existed. Look at the message of the season; Peace on Earth and Good Tasavanh is the son of N. Linda marching for the right to vote were sav- Sutone Napoleon Tasavanh Tasavanh and Sornsin Phanthouhem, agely beaten by local police on what Will to All. Merry Christmas.

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AREA WIDE EVENTS

PSO Holiday Concert December 8 by Joe Germana accompanied by the combined choirs Broadway” arranged by John Higgins Family passes of $20 are available for Parma Symphony Orchestra will of Parma, Valley Forge, Normandy and everyone’s favorite “Sleigh Ride” families of up to 2 adults and their perform a Holiday Concert on Sun- and Padua Franciscan High Schools by Leroy Anderson. children. All tickets are available at the day, December 8, 2019 at 3:00 PM at and CCC-West Collegiate Choir. Also The orchestra, in its 51st season door beginning at 2:30 PM. Valley Forge High School Auditorium featuring a transcription by orchestra consists of 75 members of all walks Parma Symphony Orchestra is a located at 9999 Independence Boule- member Everett Brandt and cartoon of life from all over the entire Greater self-supporting community orchestra vard in Parma Heights. Music Director video of “Corny Concerto” shown Cleveland area. They meet weekly for in cooperation with the Parma City Dr. Randolph P. Laycock will feature with music performed by the orches- rehearsals and present at least four Schools. For more information can be “Les Preludes” by Franz Liszt, “A Musi- tra. Christmas favorites to be featured concerts annually. found on Facebook, web-site www.par- cological Journey Through the Twelve are the Robert Bowden arrangement General admission is $10 for adults masymphony.org or calling Business Days of Christmas” by Craig Courtney of “A Christmas Treat”, “Christmas on and $5 for students and senior citizens. Manager Joe Germana 440-882-2012. News You Can Use (And Where To Find It) by Gene Lovasy • All area students ages 12 -17 are procedures more clearly define how the Northern Ohio & will go to local fami- More re: Human Trafficking welcome to join. For announcements district will move forward w/requests lies in the Cleveland area. Visit the State of Ohio’s Human & detailed information visit the PACT to transfer current students in grades Parma Parent University... PCSD Trafficking Task Force Web site for Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ K - 12 between schools. The applica- & Tri-C have teamed up to offer free, Related Information and Available parmaheights.police; email: pactunit@ tion process runs from Nov 15 to Jan informative & entertaining workshops Resources... https://humantrafficking. gmail.com; ph: 440.884.1235. 15 and is made via an online, digi- for parents w/students in the district. ohio.gov/ From Parma Area Chamber of Com- tal form. Note also that the “Special The next session is scheduled for Dec Go here: https://humantraffick- merce... Transfer” process has changed slightly. 5th from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Parma ing.ohio.gov/response.html to review The ever popular Annual Christ- Visit www.parmacityschools.org/scho- Sr. H.S. – Topic: Crises Intervention: a Toolkit for Serving Survivors of Traf- mas Parade is scheduled to step off at olofchoice for details. What Parents Need to Know. Call ficking in Ohio 2:00 pm, Sunday, Dec 8th. It’ll start The district has been selected Audrey Holtzman at 440.885.8334 to Go here: https:// by Stearns Farm, head north on Ridge as adrop-off location for this year’s register. Visit www.parmacityschools. humantraffickinghotline.org/nhth- Rd. to end at Ridgewood Golf Course “Operation Toy Soldier”. This nation- org/parentuniversity to learn more. hhs-online-trainings for an extensive where a host of special, special fam- wide initiative provides toys to children Take advantage of “Donuts wth list of available, free online training ily oriented holiday activities will be of soldiers deployed, non-deployed Dr. Smialek,” a once-a-month oppor- modules from NHTH & HHS offered. or who have just returned home. tunity for a donut, coffee & an informal Go here: https://humantraf- From Parma City Schools: You’re invited to drop off unwrapped conversation with the Superintendent. fickinghotline.org/resources/ Ridge-Brook Elementary needs toys (age range between 5 – 10) at the The next two sessions are scheduled human-trafficking-awareness-edu- COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS to Admin Bldg. lobby (5311 Longwood for: 7:30 am, Mon., Dec. 02, at Royal cators to view the training video on support their Project MORE (Mentor- Ave.) from7:30 am to 4:30 pm, Mon- Human Trafficking Awareness for ing in Ohio for Reading Excellence), day thru Friday through Dec. 18th. All read the rest of this story online at: Educators. 1:1 reading mentoring program for 3rd toys collected will benefit the USO of parmaobserver.com Watch for more information re grade students. The school is looking to Human Trafficking in the next issue. begin the program on Tuesdays and/or Compliments of the Imagine Foun- Thursdays from 12:15-1:15 beginning dation. the week of January 14th (note change OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS: in time/day previously reported). This The Parma Heights PACT (Police is a great program but needs volunteers NOW OPEN & Community Together) Youth to fully realize its potential. Please call Group: A special thank you to every- the school at 440.885.2350 to let them one who donated personal care items know your available. Project MORE is for the group’s “Comeback Kits” for the hosted throughout the district. How- What inspires You?... homeless project. The kits were assem- ever, each elementary building hosts Let our devoted staff curate it for you! bled by the kids & delivered to the City on various days and times. If you Mission for distribution to their home- would prefer volunteering at another Catered Living less population. The community’s building simply give the school a call & Assisted living financial support is always appreci- and indicate your interest. Memory Care ated & can be made by check payable to As of November 15th the “Open Located at the the Parma Height Police Department, Enrollment” program has been re- Shoppes of Parma. memo’d “PACT Youth Group. named “Parma School of Choice”. New

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Join the Discussion at: www.parmaobserver.com December, 2019 The Parma Observer Vol 11, Issue 12 Page 11

PARMA ART SCENE

Holiday Show Season: Katrina Lindsley, Parma Area Parma Art Scene Michelle Behal, President of Fine Arts member and owner of Devo- Parma Area Fine Arts and owner of tions, with homemade room fresheners Bank. This year’s theme is a Comic by Kathryn Mabin Bear Tracks Art will be at the Mulberry (“smelly jelly”) and more, will be at Gary G. Nass, a Parma Area Fine Book/Christmas Movie Mash-up. Creek Christmas Open at Mulberry Normandy High School on December Arts Board Member, is a participant Call For Instructors: Parma Area Creek Farm, 3212 Bogart Rd. in Hud- 7th, St Nick’s Craft Show at the Seven in the Scatterings: 3-Dimensions On Fine Arts Council, a 501(c)3 nonprofit son, Ohio., on December 7th and 8th. Hills Rec Center on December 8th, the Wall & Off Show, brought to you organization, operating in the Tri-City Bear Tracks Art specializes in custom Brunswick High School on December by Cleveland Photo Fest at Doubt- area, for over 50 years, is looking to wood-burned items, and acrylic paint- 14th and Broadview Multi Care Craft ing Thomas Gallery located at 856 expand their art class offerings. If you, ing. She has an excellent selection of Show on December 21st. You can fol- Jefferson Avenue in Tremont. This or know of someone who, would be small stocking stuffers for reasonable low her on Facebook at Devotions. event is also a part of the Tremont interested in teaching an art class, or prices. Visit her web site at www.beart- Support your local artists and shop Artwalk. The show features sculp- a one day workshop, please email your racksarts.com, or follow on Facebook. small! tures and assemblages incorporating resume and class details to kathryn- photo-based imagery from 13 creative [email protected]. individuals. You may remember read- Prama Artspace & Gallery – Call ing an artist profile of Gary’s work in For Artists: Located at 5411 Pearl the March 2019 issue of the Parma Road, this Parma gallery offers you a Emerging Artists Showcased At Observer, which detailed his unique new exhibit each month. December is and lengthy process, involving wood, Krampus & Kringle. In Central Euro- Tri-C Gallery West handmade paper and photographs. pean folklore Krampus is a horned by John Horton pus, located at 11000 Pleasant Valley This event opens Friday, December 13, half goat, half demon who punishes The talent of eight emerging Road in Parma. For more informa- 2019 6 to 9 PM. Closing reception is children who misbehave. Kringle aka Northeast Ohio artists who work in tion, call 216-987-5322 or visit www. January 3, 2020 from 6 to 10 PM with a Santa rewards well behaved children. a variety of mediums will be high- tri-c.edu/gallerywest. Multimedia performance by Jim Szudy Krampus & Kringle is a celebration lighted during a monthlong exhibit and Shawn Sloburn. of both the naughty and nice. Artists at the Western Campus of Cuyahoga WE BUY HOMES. Craig Lindsley, Parma Fine Arts drop off of work is December 6th, at Community College (Tri-C). Call Today for Your Board Member, and instructor, is a 6:00 PM through December 9th. The The exhibit will be on view participant in the Annual Carol & opening reception is December 13th, 6 through Nov. 21 at Gallery West, FREE VALUATION! John’s Holiday Party and Charity Art to 10 PM. The exhibit runs December located on the second floor of the Show at Carol & John’s Comic Shop at 13, 2019 through January 6, 2020. The campus library. Gallery hours are Don’t list it! Kamm’s Plaza. Comic book covers are gallery also houses a small boutique 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Don’t fix it! created by local artists, placed on dis- where you’ll find unique one-of-a-kind Thursdays and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fri- play, and raffled off at this event. The inexpensive gifts and stocking stuffers. days and Saturdays. Don’t clean it! proceeds benefit the Cleveland Food Follow Prama on Facebook. Featured artists include Elisa Don’t show it! Albrecht, Madison Egleston, Jes- sica Hokes, Jasmine Kornel, Marlene Don’t worry! Michl, Mary Kay Palazzo, Phaedra WE’LL PAY Scherl and Meagan Smith. All are CASH FOR IT! recent graduates of Kent State Uni- versity. Free parking for Gallery West visitors is available at Western Cam- 216.906.4282 [email protected]

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Five Star Overall Rating by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

Heartfelt Holiday Pleasant Lake Villa is holding its fourth annual gift drive to help make the holidays a little brighter for senior citizens in our community. ITEMS SUGGESTED FOR DONATIONS: Blankets Slippers Nonskid socks Toiletries Snack foods Tea Please drop off items NOVEMBER 4 through DECEMBER 5 at: Pleasant Lake Villa · 7260 Ridge Road · Parma, OH 44129 · 440-842-2273 or Regency Hospital Cleveland West · 6990 Engle Rd. · Middleburg Hts., OH 44130 · 440-202-4200 Join us for a reception at Pleasant Lake Villa on Thursday, December 5 | 4–6 p.m. Refreshments and cookies provided For more information, call the front desk at 440-842-2273.

7260 Ridge Road · Parma, OH 44129 6990 Engle Rd. · Middleburg Hts, OH 44130

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