The residents of Parma Heights will remember for years to come where they were on Tuesday, August 6 around 4pm. As the notifications came in, the weather turned quickly and the tornado touched down in the City of Parma Heights and surrounding areas.
On August 17 the City of Parma held the always popular annual Safety Fair at the Parma Justice Center. This event features hands on displays and presentations by police, fire, rescue and medical services arranged so that the public can interact in such a way that they are much better informed about the various operations of the vital functions provided by these public servants. Lots of families were in attendance, participating at each exhibit, learning all about the function of our various safety forces in real life situations.
Living in Parma we are blessed to have some of the best Safety Forces in Northeast Ohio. On Thursday August 15th the Ward 6 Safety Meeting was held at my house with over 80 residents attending. This event was postponed by one week due to the tornado coming through Parma. Throughout the question and answer time the residents expressed their thanks and appreciation to all of our Safety Forces.
I am very passionate when it comes to the young and old. I believe that if more decision-makers could relate to the needs of the disenfranchised living in neighborhoods without access to recreational activities, perhaps they would be more likely to offer opportunities for positive engagement.
On July 8, 2024 of this year, it has been decided that the unidentified victims of the Cleveland Torso killer will be exhumed from their graves in an effort to identify them. Dr. Thomas Gilson, the Cuyahoga Chief Medical Examiner, is teaming up with the ”DNA Doe Project” to use DNA testing on the their remains.
This month's script Parma photo of the month contest winner is Parma's Kayla Detore whose son, Dax, appears. If you have a creative photo of the sign that you would like to have published, email it, along with your address and phone number, to Sean Patrick Brennan at pierogie5k@gmail.com. You could win a great prize if yours is selected.
US Senator Sherrod Brown stands with Parma Mayor Timothy DeGeeter, Ohio Stsate Rep Sean Patrick Brennan, and officials from Ukrainian Village during the Ukrainian Independence Parade on August 24.
SAG/AFTRA Picnic at Westcreek Reservation in August.
The 10th Annual SAG-AFTRA Family Picnic took place on August 4 in Parma at the Westcreek Reservation Pavillion. What a wonderful day and an amazing turnout. 87 degrees and sunny. There were over fifty people that showed through out the day from many places. It was nice to see everyone that was able to attend. Ms. Fay Porter even showed up. Ms. Porter is a wonderful lady that recently turned 95.The organization presented Executive Director Brian Lysell with a plaque for ten years of service. He has done a wonderful job to continue to organize and strengthen the Union for Ohio-Pittsburgh. Our friend Peter Lawson Jones was able to stop this year. He is such a great friend and was recently inducted into the Karamu House Hall of Fame. Congratulations
This year was the beginning of having door prizes donated from many wonderful establishments including Wall of Books, Little Birdie Wine Nest, Rookies, Yorktown Lanes, The Tipsy Flamingo, Au Jus, Gentiles, Cassidy Theater, The Beck Center for the Arts, Schnitzel Ale Brewery, Galluccis, and many others. If anyone would like to donate or be a sponsor for next year please reach out. andyschofield@yahoo.com
Thanks again for another successful day for the members and families.
Recently, State Representative Sean Patrick Brennan hosted Jason Stephens, Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, at Parma's Schnitz Ale. They met with the command staff of the Parma and Parma Heights police and fire departments to discuss state safety policy and funding, among other issues following the storms that struck the communities.
Governor Michael DeWine signs H.B. 466 at the Ohio State Fairgrounds as State Representative Sean Patrick Brennan (Parma) and guests watch.
I was very excited recently when I got word from the Governor’s office that he was going to sign House Bill 466. H.B. 466 is the second bill that I have introduced that the Governor has signed into law. I am told that it is rare for a freshman member of the Ohio House of Representatives to pass one bill, let alone two. After teaching American Government to middle and high school students for 30 years, I am literally living my life’s work.
The opening line of Charles Dickens’ classic novel of France during the French Revolution was “It was the best of times, and it was the worst of times.” That line could accurately describe the United States this year as we get closer to election day in November. I watched some of the party conventions this summer and the contrast between the two major political parties couldn’t be more radically different than they are this year.
The 5th Annual Cleveland Photo Fest runs through September at Bostwick Design Initiative at 2731 Prospect Ave in Cleveland. This year there are several exhibits. A black and white portrait exhibition of 60 Cuyahoga County Mayors and Civic Officials, including Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter. The Women’s Self Portrait Show, which includes photos of 40 women. CATography a national cat photography exhibit, and more. Lots of local talent in this exhibit.
What’s in a Name? Lots if you’re a Lois The Northeast Ohio Chapter of the Lois Club (NEOLois Club) had its first meeting on November 14, 2003 There were 11 women named Lois at the first event. Since then, the group has grown to its current membership of just under 40 members this year. The ladies decided to continue with these luncheons on the same schedule at the National clubs, as there are several across the country, including Canada, which is on the 5th Tuesday of the month. Generally, there are 4 such days in each year, and occasionally there are 5. There are Lois Club groups on Facebook too! An annual convention is scheduled in different locations throughout the states that presents an opportunity to travel, sight see, and meet others who share the name of Lois. This event is open to friends and family.
The Cleveland Cohort as part of the Poland Personally Classrooms wihtout Borders place-based learning experience.Led by Amnon Ophir, second from left, we will continue to build the network of learning here in Cleveland.
Incarnate Word Academy educators Traci Borden and Anne Hribar recently participated in an intensive study seminar, Poland Personally, presented by Classrooms Without Borders. The purpose of the seminar was to increase their understanding of the value of diversity and the results of prejudice. Accompanied by Holocaust survivor Howard Chandler, participants spent over a week visiting many historical sites, including the Warsaw and Krakow ghettoes, as well as Treblinka, Majdanek, and Auschwitz.
The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library, partnering with The Greater Cleveland Food Bank, will offer a monthly Mobile Food Distribution on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at the Parma Heights Branch Library, 6206 Pearl Road, on Wednesday, September 18th from 10:00 a.m. - 12 Noon for customers who are in need. Please visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch Library at 440.884.2313 for additional information.
The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library will host Native North American Art: Before, During and After Colonization on Tuesday, September 17th, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. in Meeting Room A. The Cleveland Museum of Art will talk about Native American Art in this hands-on experience with art objects. The artists, who represent the diverse cultures and tribes of Indigenous peoples in North America, created functional and beautiful art objects with spiritual significance. Please note: Participants will be required to have clean hands when handling the art objects. Registration required. To register, please visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch at 440.884.2313.
The Cuyahoga Works: Job & Career Services team of Professional Career Counselors will present Tips for Success for Job Seekers Over 40 as a hybrid program held virtually on Zoom and held in-person at the Parma Heights Branch on Monday, September 23rd, 2024, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Choose to attend via Zoom or in-person at Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library. September is International Update Your Resume Month. Celebrate by attending this hybrid program presented by a Career Counselor from Cuyahoga County Public Library’s Cuyahoga Works: Job & Career Services. Over age 40? Learn how to increase your marketability in today’s competitive job market as a career seeker over age 40. This informative and motivational program will also include tips for success among your competition regardless of experience, age and additional factors that concern you. Gain a new viewpoint to continue your search in the job market with success. Register for the hybrid option or register for the in-person option. To register, visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch at 440.884.2313.
The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library will host Small Business Series Workshop on Thursday evenings in September 2024 in Meeting Room C. Are you thinking of starting a small business? Are you a small business owner exploring ways to develop? This four-part series is designed for people with a small business idea who are seeking information and are interested in launching or growing a successful small business. Local small business community leaders and entrepreneurs will share their experiences and Q&A following the presentations.
In Ohio, agriculture provides 1 out of every 7 jobs, making it one of the state’s biggest economic drivers. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I have been working to support our agriculture industry and consumers who rely on our farmers and producers for affordable food.
Named after George W. Crile, the founder of the Cleveland Clinic and a prominent Spanish American War and World War1 Surgeon. Crile General Hospital opened on York and Pleasant Valley roads in Parma on April 21, 1944. At the time it was a rural area, perfect for a sprawling Hospital Base. Eighty Seven building were constructed on 53 acres for the Barrack style Military Hospital, with Operating rooms, Inpatient wards, Administration buildings, Mess halls, Chapel, and even a secure area for German and Italian Prisoners of War sent up from Camp Perry in Northern Ohio. (One prisoner did try to escape and was shot and killed). The Hospital had 1,725 beds, seven miles of corridors, and 1,000 Caregivers during WWII. Throughout war, 15,000 wounded soldiers and POWs were cared for in Parma.
It was a beautiful night at Progressive Field on Tuesday, July 23. The Cleveland Guardians hosted the Parma Heights Recreation Youth Baseball programs. I started the night with a change-up, as I threw out the ceremonial first pitch! The youth baseball players enjoyed parading around Progressive Field. Along with all the ballplayers and their families, the Parma Heights Senior Center attended as well. In all, it was over 200 fans from the City of Parma Heights. It was a fun night at the ballpark and the Guardians won the game!
Bring your family and friends to the Annual We Are Parma Proud’s Picnic In The Park on August 3rd, from 11 AM to 2 PM. It’s back at the Ridgewood Basin Park, formerly known as Ridgewood Lake Park, across the street from The Shoppes at Parma, next to the Splash Pad. Free admission!
The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library, partnering with The Greater Cleveland Food Bank, will offer a monthly Mobile Food Distribution on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at the Parma Heights Branch Library, 6206 Pearl Road, on Wednesday, August 21st from 10:00 a.m. - 12 Noon for customers who are in need. Please visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch Library at 440.884.2313 for additional information.
The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library will host Cleveland’s Union Terminal Tower on Wednesday, August 14th, 2024 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. in Meeting Room A. Cleveland's Union Terminal Tower changed Cleveland's skyline, businesses, transportation and reputation. Doug Kusak, Historical Interpreter at Cleveland Metroparks, hopes to build upon what you know about the iconic complex planned by the Van Sweringen Brothers. Registration required. To register, please visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch at 440.884.2313.
While visiting a Veteran friend in Hospice on Monday 7/22/24 I noticed a paper titled The Daily Chonicle on the table where he was sitting. On the front page there was a Title called, DID YOU KNOW. Under this title was written, Before John Dillinger became Public Enemy No.1, he joined the Navy in order to avoid charges of auto theft in his native Indiana. He didn't last long in the Navy, though. He went AWOL several times before heading back to Indiana and beginning a spree of armed robberies. In 1934 FBI Agents gunned him down outside a movie theater in Chicago. The Famous bank robber and escape artist was known as "PUBLIC ENEMY #1."
Is getting outside and exploring one of your favorite things to do? Then join the 2ND Fridays Parma Heights Scavenger Hunt which will send adventurers all over Pearl Road in Parma Heights, if they choose. The scavenger hunt was meant to bring people out to "discover Parma Heights". If you haven't been to Parma Heights lately, come see all the new stores, head up Pearl Road, and discover some interesting things about the city. The 4th Annual 2ND FRIDAYS Scavenger Hunt goes from Aug 5-10th. It could be a solo challenge or a collaborative activity with a friend or two. It could even be a competition if you have a large enough group and can split into teams. Highlights of the scavenger hunt include visiting spots that locals may or not be aware of, all along Pearl Road in Parma Heights which can win you or your team gift certificates and prizes from local businesses. This year the scavenger hunt will encourage participants to pinpoint landmarks, small businesses, and a few curious places in Parma Heights. It's a stroll with an entertaining (and sometimes educational) purpose, shedding light on Parma Heights and small businesses around you! It all begins Monday Aug 5th. Pick up a FREE 2nd Friday Scavenger Hunt Clue Sheet at the Parma Heights Library, 168 Optical at 6656 Pearl Rd, Heidy's Nail Salon, Gamers Haven, Stop N Go Brew Thru, Smoke World, Hair & Stuff 216, Village Cards & Gifts or copy it from the Parma Heights 2ND FRIDAY Facebook page beginning Aug 5th. (which will also list the cool prizes). 100% sponsored by residents and small Parma Heights businesses. There are no hard and fast rules, only an invitation to slow down, enjoy a Summer day and open your eyes to the little things Parma Heights has to offer.
Tribe Ostara Tribal Belly Dancing Group
Jan McAndrews, Parma Arts member, and member of Tribe Ostara Tribal Belly Dancing will be at Cleveland Pagan Pride Festival, 730 Broadway Ave., Bedford, performing improvisational sword, skirt and zill performance, in beautiful & colorful, ethnic clothing with movements inspired by Middle East, North Africa, Spain & India folklore dances, on Saturday August 17.
Save the date! Saturday, August 24th from 1pm to 3pm come to The Parma Art Center, located at 7335 Ridge Road in the Parma Parks & Recreation Building. Kids, Teens, Mom & Dad, Grandparents too, creatives of All ages, 2 to 102, are welcome to join in on the fun!
The Parma Area Historical Society (PAHS) will hold a ribbon-cutting on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 11:00 am to acknowledge the installation of Mobi-mat walkways at Stearns Homestead, making the farm more accessible to wheelchair users and individuals with mobility needs. The portable sidewalks reduce physical barriers and allow all visitors to more easily access the barnyard area and interact with the farm animals.
While driving through the Polish Village section of Parma you’re sure to spot the beautiful flower pots on Ridge and Pearl Roads. The pots are a part of a beautification program that began a few years ago called Adopt-A-Pot. Local residents, businesses, and churches along with volunteers from the non-profit Polish Village Parma, Inc., and Councilwoman Debbie Lime, plant the flowers, weed, and water them. Kudos to all those volunteers who work so diligently to better our community and make it a great place to live.
The Adult Services staff atParma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library will teach Creativebug 101 on Tuesday, August 6th, 2024 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. to adults age 18 years and older. Creativebug, created by JoAnn (formerly known as Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores), is a subscription database available at Cuyahoga County Public Library and remotely at home using a computer. Creativebug has many craft projects and ideas. In this beginner-friendly digital maker class, library staff will demonstrate how to use Creativebug which requires a library card & PIN along with a valid email address. Following the demonstration, library staff and the audience of registered customers will make a crafty, fun project together using Creativebug. Registered customers need to bring their library card number & PIN and their valid email address & email password. Registration required. To register, please visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch at 440.884.2313.
The Founder of the the Parma Area Senior Veterans Group, Tony kessler, after the One year Anniversary of a very succesful 2023, wanted to make sure our Group was in the NATIONAL spotlight. After many phone calls and filing of several forms to obtain a 501C and receiving word that we were approved, he posted the information on facebook. All of the details of our Group are on Facebool. We have had a lot of Guest Speakers that have come to our Monthly meetings and answered several questions from our Group members. We promote MUTUAL TRUST AND RESPECT. If you are a Veteran, Spouse of a Veteran, Caretaker, or Supporter please come to our Monthly meeting at the Donna Smallwood Senior Center in Parma and sign up to be a Member. I can tell you from my own experience that this Group is dedicated to supporting Veterans and all Seniors. I have been a member since Tony started this Group in February of 2023 and can tell you that out of the many groups that I have been involved in over the years. that this Group ranks at the top of the list. There is an atmosphere that is generated by all of the members of caring for each other and returning to all things that make this world a better place. I am honored and proud to be a member of the Senior Veteran's of America Chapter: Parma-01 OH
Parma residents have exhaled a collective sigh of relief after the botched abduction attempt of the knobby kneed flamingo. Prior to the shocking event, our beaky friend had resided at Anthony Zielinski park There beside the Parma Script sign that bird added just the right amount of pink and well, decorum for all wanting a snapshot. Residents became angry at the harm that was inflicted upon the flamingo. The community and the city police department joined forces to apprehend those responsible while the
beaky best Parma has to offer laid injured unable to stand. Yet the flamingos are not the only ones hit hard.
Kim Tyler of Parma, Ohio is the winner of the $25,000 grand prize in the CrossCountry Mortgage (CCM) Dedicated Dawgs Sweepstakes. CCM is the nation’s number one distributed retail mortgage lender and the official mortgage partner of the Cleveland Browns.
State Representative and Parma Run-Walk for Pierogies Race Director Sean Patrick Brennan with the 2024 female and male winners Suzanne Rupe (19:23) and Jonathan Zappala (17:46).
This month's script Parma photo of the month contest winner is Parma's Jankowksi Family - Krista, Eric, Carson, and Kara. If you have a creative photo of the sign that you would like to have published, email it, along with your address and phone number, to Sean Patrick Brennan at pierogie5k@gmail.com. You could win a great prize if yours is selected.
State Representative Sean Patrick Brennan with the Mottl family with Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives Jason Stephens presiding.
In a full session of the Ohio House of Representatives recently, I had the honor of eulogizing my longtime friend, predecessor, and role model, Ronald Milton Mottl. What follows is the speech I delivered to my 98 colleagues. You may watch it on the Ohio Channel at: ohiochannel.org/video/ohio-house-of-representatives-6-12-2024
Fifty years ago this summer, the country was in the midst of a real constitutional crisis amid a battle between the executive and legislative branches.The nation survived and the constitution worked. So, let’s call up Peabody and Sherman from the old Rocky and Bullwinkle show and their “way back” time machine and set the calendar back fifty years to August 1974.
