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The Parma Heights Recreation team has been offering a great mix of sports, programs, activities and special events this year. On Saturday, October 22 they hosted Creatures on the Commons featuring live animals, crafts, the Parma Heights Police and Fire Departments with vehicles for kids to sit-in, Halloween decorations and everyone’s favorite – treat stations. The first-time event attracted over 500 guests and the evening was capped off with an evening Owl Prowl.

Frosty’s Fest is back, and this year, it will be bigger, better, and at a new location.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, the nation’s largest free volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation service is seeking volunteers to assist taxpayers in southwestern Cuyahoga County. Volunteers do not have to be retired or members of AARP.  We plan 2 tax preparation sites in Parma and 6 additional sites in the neighboring cities.

RAISING AWARENESS:  Human Trafficking/Abuse:Note: View the digital version to activate hyperlinks – www.parmaobserver.com/read/news >  K N O W   T H E   S I G N S  <
> Pay attention if a person:  > Be alert if a young person:
    *  Appears submissive, afraid or nervous.                                                            *  Has a much older “boyfriend / “girlfriend.
    *  Tells a well-rehearsed or inconsistent story.                                                   *  Has new jewelry, new hairdo or polished nails (not paid for
    *  Is not in control of his/her identification papers                                                 by the youth’s parent or guardian/s.
    *  Shows signs of physical or mental abuse.                                                        *  Has sporadic or poor school attendance.
    *  Is not able to come and go as he/she pleases.                                                *  Possesses multiple hotel cards or cell phones.
    *  Does not want to tell you about a tattoo which may be                               *  Wears clothing inappropriate for his/her age or for the
        a trafficker’s branding.                                                                                              weather.
> Signs a friend or someone you know may be experiencing human trafficking:
    * Someone has isolated your friend from you and other loving & supportive people.
    * Someone makes decisions for your friend about when he/she is free, where they can go, or who they can hang out with.
    * Your friend left town suddenly or disappears from time to time with little or no explanation.
    * Your friend is highly secretive about a new relationship or their whereabouts.
    * Your friend has received expensive gifts.
    * You never see your friend anymore or you can never get time alone with them.
    * Your friend seems frightened or nervous.
    * Your friend seems malnourished or ill and isn’t allowed to get the treatment they need.
>>  Know who to contact….a trusted adult, your local police department, the County's Regional Human Trafficking Task Force at 216.443.6085, or if you feel it's an emergency dial 911. Should services and/or support for a victim be required, a call to the H. T, Collaborative, 440.872.6500 can result in the appropriate connection/s being made w/any of its 70+ partner organizations or agencies. 

O  From Cleveland Rape Crisis Center... Click here to learn about support for survivors who are d/Deaf and hard of hearing.  Check out the video presented in American Sign Language  w/English sub-titles describing services available.

O  From The Collaborative to End Human Trafficking:
      >>  “Fundamentals of Human Trafficking” presentations are scheduled for 7:00 pm on Tues, Nov 15th, and again at 10:30 am on Tues, Dec 6th. These hour-long presentations are both free and virtual. Note that Social Workers completing this program are eligible to receive 1 free CEU. Get details & register here.
 
LOCAL EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES:
O  Grant Sources for Nonprofits...Here is another set of five grantors identified by the MyCom network:  >  Colibri Grants  > Classics for Kids Foundation  > The Edward E. Ford Foundation  > The Fordham Street Foundation         > The Global Fund for Children.  If you’re affiliated with a family/youth-serving organization visit these funders’ sites to see if your program/service fits their mission.  
 
O  From Parma City Schools: 
      >>  Go hereto learn more about how PCSD has & is responding to the mental health crisis, the notoriety the program has received, and how its efficacy has attracted key sponsorships & the support of Cav’s player Kevin Love.
      >>  Proposed new school boundary maps for the 2023-2024 School Year have been drafted. Go here to view & learn more.
     >>  In partnership with PSE Credit Union, K-4 students are now able to open an actual savings account & "bank" weekly! The “PCSD Pennie Club” program is student-run & staff facilitated at each of their elementary buildings.  Staff training is now complete and they’re ready for bankers!
      >>  If you’re not already aware, new Senior Discount cards qualify Senior citizens for 20% off of services offered by Normandy’s  Cosmetology program and meals served by the Sword & Shield Culinary restaurant! Senior discount coupons are available at the central office on Longwood. Learn more here.     
      >> If you’re a local business owner, go here to learn more about the district’s Workforce Learning Program. Find out why and how your business can participate to help build a local workforce pipeline.
     
O From Ohio Dept of Education (ODE):
      >>  RecoveryOhio has partnered with several state agencies to create a new public awareness campaign focused on warning middle school, high school, and college students and their families of the dangers of counterfeit pills. Download the materials to share today.
      >>  Click here to learn more about a new Community Wellbeing: Social Determinants of Health dashboard available on the DataOhio Portal. Explore the dashboard to gain insight that can help inform local decision-making.
      >>  Are you working with students and families displaced by conflict, environmental disasters, and other extraordinary circumstances? Go here to review ODE’s new “Enrolling and Supporting Displaced and Newcomer Students” webpage containing requirements and considerations to best support displaced newcomer students with immediate enrollment and more.
      >>  If you’re a tutoring vendor or looking for a professional tutoring service click here to learn more about ODE’s just released high-quality tutoring program directory.

O  From All Faiths Pantry...The organization is in need of delivery volunteers. For more information call Megan at 216.406.4329 or visit their website athttps://allfaithspantry.org/

O  From Medworks of Greater Cleveland...They are hosting a FREE DENTAL CLINIC on Friday, Nov 18th and again on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Huntington Convention Center, 300 Lakeside Ave E, Cleveland.  No questions asked; walk-ins only. Patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. Go here for details.

O  From The Northeast Ohio Black Health Coalition (NEOBHC)...Visit their website here and click on the COMMUNITY tab to learn more about the more than 20 activities, events, and projects currently underway. DATA RESOURCES are also available by clicking on the ABOUT tab.

O  From Search Institute:
      >>  Go hereto review the results of their 2015 study, “Don’t Forget the Families – The Missing Piece in America’s Effort to Help All Children Succeed.” There’s a lot of good stuff here – well worth more than just a cursory visit. Among its many TIPS is a reference to Parent Further, Search Institute’s website for families to find quizzes, conversation starters, activities, and other tools to strengthen developmental relationships in families. Learn more & check it out here.
      >>  Sign up for this free, 1-hour webinar: The State of Developmental Assets coming up on Wednesday, November 16 at 10:00 am, CST.  SI’s CEO will be sharing new data around Developmental Assets, discussing the state of Developmental Assets throughout the pandemic, and how Assets lay the foundation for building meaningful relationships with young people to ensure they feel seen, heard, and valued. Register here.

O  From ASSE-Intn’l Student Exchange Program...ASSE is looking for local representatives to help assist local families and high school exchange students who will be attending high schools during the 2023 – 2024 school year. To learn how to apply visit their website by clicking the hyperlink above. For more specific information contact our state coordinator, Holly Hawk at holly@asse.com, ph: 937.418.6779.

O  From OCALI...For folks working (or living) with clients (kids mostly but adults as well) on the autism spectrum and/or who may have some type of physical or sensory challenge. OCALI’s annual 4-day, all-virtual conference is scheduled to start on November 15th. If registering as a parent/student the cost is only $50; if as a professional it's $250. They're quoting > 15,000 registrants so far & at $50 a pop it may be worth considering. Go here to visit the conference website.

O  From the Down Syndrome Assoc. of NE Ohio (DSANEO):
      >>  For families interested, DSANEO will be hosting its Holiday Party on Sunday, Dec. 4th at the Holiday Inn on Rockside Rd. Visit their website for more information.
      >>  While there, a) check all the activities planned for this month on the Calendar page and b) visit their Publications page to view among others, a list of all the programs and services they offer, and view a copy of “Life with Down Syndrome – A New & Expectant Parent Guide”

O From Lake Erie Ink (A writing space for youth)...Visit their website to learn more about how this local organization offers programs for students ages 6 to 18, as well as providing off-site creative writing experiences for students in schools and other youth-serving organizations.  Go here to view and/or register for any of their extensive list of fall programming opportunities.

O  From Ohio Dept. of Insurance... The Life Insurance Policy Locator tool from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners helps to connect consumers with their deceased loved ones' lost life insurance policies and annuity contracts if there are any. The online tool is free & available to anyone.

On Monday, November 21, 2022, a FREE Colored Pencil Workshop, will be held at the Donna Smallwood Activities Center, 7001 W Ridgewood Drive, 12:30 to 2:30 PM. The workshop will be taught by local artist and retired art teacher, Donata Rahne. This workshop is for those who state they can’t draw a straight line. It’s a friendly, relaxing, non-judgemental workshop that that introduces beginners to a fun way of creating something you can be proud to show to your friends. You’ll learn how to shade and color with pencils. It’s FREE and all supplies are included. 

Joe Timko felt revived after a surgical procedure to correct his atrial fibrillation.

Joe Timko figured he was just growing old, with a persistent heaviness in his chest that left him feeling sluggish. He didn’t realize he had atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common heart rhythm disorder and one experienced unknowingly by millions of Americans.

Artist:  Magickally Morbid

Prama Artspace & Gallery, 5411 Pearl Rd, is having their Annual Spooktacular Show. They sure do love the spooky stuff at Prama. If you love dark, mysterious and spooky, you’ll love this show. Opening night was Friday, October 28, 2022. Patrons came dressed in costumes, refreshments were served. and listened to the sounds of Sept Le Charme perform their latest Draculian dirges at 8 PM. Sept le Charme just released a new album of their dark poetry as lyrics titled, And on the 7th Day, the Goth God Created Sept le Charme. This exhibit will be available for you to peruse through November 20th. 

This month all across the country, families and individuals will be sitting down for a dinner and to give thanks what ever we have received throughout the year. The annual feast of Thanksgiving is truly a unique American holiday that is neither a religious holiday nor a purely secular holiday. Throughout the country Americans will be sitting down with family and/or friends and giving thanks for what we have, regardless of personal wealth or faith.

Thank you to The Bacon Guys at Barabicu.

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The 12th Annual Polish Village Treat & Greet, October 22nd, was a huge success this year. The weather was sunny and warm, which brought people out in droves. This event is brought to you by the Polish Village non-profit volunteers. The route included over 40 stops to trick-or-treat, from Ridge and Pearl to Ridge and Hamstead. Parma Police, Parma Fire, and Parma UH also participated passing out candy. Twenty-four raffle prizes were awarded to the adults this year, each with a value of $50 or more. Several shop owners dressed in costume also. As did the adults accompanying children. One stop had free coffee for the adults and a chance to rest. Sparky The Dog was seen greeting kids on Ridge Road. One stop had balloons for the kids. So many great costumes! 

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, the nation’s leading luxury massage and facial spa franchise, announced today the opening of its newest franchised location in Parma. Located in The Shoppes at Parma at 7841 W. Ridgewood Drive, the new Hand & Stone spa is owned and operated by longtime Independence resident and pharmacist Neel Patel. With the opening of his new spa, Neel is bringing Hand & Stone’s signature skincare services and luxury spa experience to his community, making high-end wellness services affordable and accessible in Parma.

Wildlife management is often a euphemism for killing, and the most beautiful creatures are typically the ones under fire. Why does Mayor Marie Gallo and Parma Heights City Council have this fixation with killing deer through hunting in city parks as the solution?  White-tails are wily by nature, and they turn understandably skittish around gun-packing strangers. An humane effort should be considered by the Cuyahoga County Mayors/City Managers Association and there could be a program with funding from humanitarians. Immunocontraception, a type of contraception that uses the deer’s own immune system to prevent pregnancy, is a viable alternative available to any city. The method has been shown to be effective in a wide range of species, including deer, is not harmful to animals; doesn’t pose a danger to humans; and provides a humane option for urban communities seeking to control the deer population. 

For over a decade, Dr. Jaclene Zauszniewski, an internationally recognized nurse-scientist and Distinguished Faculty Researcher Award recipient of Case Western Reserve University, and her research team, have learned from caregivers and for caregivers. Her research has one common goal: helping family caregivers to better manage stress and stay healthy.    

Located at James Day Park "All Kids Playground" provides opportunities for all youngsters to have fun, regardless of mobility level.

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Parma is Ohio’s seventh most populous city and, commensurate with its size and population, is a city of parks. But, how many residents have visited or are even aware of all 20 parks and the amenities that each provides? This month’s column is dedicated to Parma’s recreational parks and will hopefully encourage you to visit all that they have to offer. They are listed loosely in order from north to south. Cut out the column and use it as your checklist!

From the PCSD School District website.

          To put it mildly, Parma has had some issues getting a new levy for its schools. My kids attend Shiloh and Thoreau Park, which means I’m involved in their education and extracurriculars (sports, student councils, FAST, etc). I speak with other parents about this issue. And I get it: parents feel burned. Recent memory reminds us of a prior administration who intentionally shrouded themselves in a cloud of secrecy before bankrupting the district. I saw the news, and I stood in line with other angry parents to try and figure out what had gone wrong.

Reasons to Vote for Cleveland Metroparks Issue 5 this November 8

On behalf of the Parma Council of PTAs, we urge our communities to vote "yes" on Issue 9, the Parma Schools bond issue. We recently adopted a resolution in support of Issue 9 because we believe this is an important investment in our children. The one high school campus that the administration is developing will have more Career Tech, Advanced Placement, and College Credit Plus classes in one location than we are able to have now. Students will not have to travel across the district to capitalize on the wealth of options that the district offers. We will actually be able to have strong Freshmen and JV teams in our sports, too, instead of the low numbers we often see now. It's time for Parma to start being more competitive with so many of our neighbors who have already invested in new schools. Our students, too, deserve the best we can give them. As a graduate of the district, mother of two current students, and the President of the Parma Council of PTAs, I support Issue 9 and ask you to join me!

Like most voters, I look at the person, not the party, and that’s why I’m going to vote for Sean Brennan for the Ohio House of Representatives this year. We need leaders who will unite us, instead of divide us – and Sean is the man for the job. Over the past few years, I’ve seen too many politicians rely on inflammatory rhetoric, distracting us from the real issues at hand; but Sean promotes and acts on the common sense, common ground ideas that tangibly help our community.

He has served our community as President of our City Council and a teacher in our public schools, and I’ve never seen a public servant who works and delivers like Sean does. He is “all action,” and that’s why he has my vote.

And to be clear, Sean is the only Democrat I’ll be voting for this year because I know he is the candidate who will get the job done better than anyone else. I urge my fellow citizens who are dedicated to their faith, their families, and their community to do the same. 

2ND Fridays Parma Heights has long been known as a leader in supporting small businesses and entrepreneurial growth. If you love to shop, or even if you just have to shop, this is your time to pay back the small businesses. Shopping locally, it's the best present that you can give to your community.

Despite the important work nonprofits and community organizations do in the communities they serve, many are lacking the modern technology tools needed to perform their missions to the fullest. To bridge this technology gap, Cox Communications today announced the call for nominations for its annual “Tech Boosts” program, which awards grants to nonprofit groups committed to investing in technology equipment for the betterment of its patrons and mission. The nomination period closes October 13, 2022.  

Sometimes it takes many years for us to be able to look back and understand the changes which have occurred in our lives. Having published the Parma Observer for 13 years, It is easier for me now to reflect on the path we've taken since October of 2009, and I am utterly amazed when I take stock of all the experiences I've had and the many people I've met. Chance favors the prepared mind, as they say, so it would be wise if we recognize the signs of change in our community and prepare for the most favorable outcomes. Events have transpired since 2009 which has undoubtedly made the world a very different place, and the Tri-City Area of Parma, Parma Heights and Seven Hills has certainly experienced our share of these ongoing developments. We've all learned a lot about things we should have done, things we shouldn't have done, and what transpires regardless of our actions. In a most certainly contentious and often divided nation, we still have to live according to our means locally, and that takes cooperation and often some compromise in order to keep moving forward. 

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At the Sept. 19 Parma City Council meeting, Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter, Ward 5 Councilman Allan Divis and Ward 7 Councilwoman Kammy Coyle Shuman recognized Padua Franciscan High School cafeteria worker Megan Kulikowski for her heroic actions. On Sept. 1, a red-faced student approached Kulikowski during lunch, leaned into her and gasped the word, “Help.” The four-year cafeteria worker called for assistance and then immediately performed the Heimlich maneuver, saving the choking student’s life. A humble Kulikowski said she does not perceive herself a hero and that any Padua lunch employee would have done the same.

 Hannah Porter-Occena to perform with PSO

Parma Symphony Orchestra will perform a LIVE Classical Music Concert on Sunday, October 16 at 3:00 PM at Valley Forge High School Auditorium located at 9999 Independence Boulevard in Parma Heights featuring: 

On Saturday, September 24 the American Legion Post 703 held a re-dedication for the Veterans Memorial monument behind the Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library. The original monument was dedicated on July 4, 1969.

Summitview Restrooms and Storage under construction (supporting Soccer, Baseball, Bocce, volleyball, walking trail, home days, concert series, picnic pavilion and much more)

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First, I want to congratulate the Parma Observer on their 13th Anniversary issue. Next would like to the thank Parma Observer Publisher Daniel P. McCarthy for his article the 2022 Seven Hills Home Days. The picture he took for article was sadly the last photo ever taken of my father before his passing. I have so much to share about our parks and recreation improvements, but I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t at least briefly touch upon the City of Seven Hills’ finances.  The current financial situation remains strong. As of August YTD, financial statements, the General Fund Unexpended (Cash) Balance is $8.56 million, a particularly strong balance for a city of this size and revenue stream. The August YTD General Fund Revenue at $9.35 million outpaced General Fund Expenses of $7.93 million.  We are currently forecasting to finish the year with a General Fund surplus.  We will once again set aside / dedicate any surplus to the capital improvement fund where it will be applied to future projects such as the 2023 road program.

Dean DePiero aloing with Bernie Kosar. Everyone was thrilled to see that the surprise starter of the 5K Run/Walk was Bernie Kosar, who delighted the crowd with his remarks and good humor. 

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On September 17 the North Royalton YMCA hosted the 5th Annual Bubble Blast 5K Run and Walk. This race is dedicated to the memory of Kathlene Cochrane Depiero, a former YMCA Board member, who is credited with starting the event back in 2016, first held in Parma. Her husband Dean DePiero, former Parma Mayor, is always front and center at this event, and this year he brought in a guest starter for the race, none other than former Browns great Bernie Kosar. This was quite a surprise to the participants, on a beautiful crisp September morning. The event went off without a hitch, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves, knowing that this race raises much needed money for many important  services and programs at the YMCA. I ride my mountain bike out here from Parma every year and it is usually my last big ride of the season. This year while riding back on those big State Road hills, Kathlene was on my mind as I remember her, and I couldn't help but think how proud she would be seeing her children growing up and her husband keeping her alive in the hearts of so many who loved her dearly. 

On Monday, October 17, 2022, a FREE workshop, titled Marvelous Metallics, will be held at the Donna Smallwood Activities Center, 7001 W Ridgewood Drive, 12:30 to 2:30 PM. The workshop will be taught by local artist Donata Rahne. This workshop is for those who state they can’t draw a straight line. It’s a friendly, relaxing, non-judge mental workshop that that introduces beginners to a fun way of creating something you can be proud to show to your friends. It’s FREE and all supplies are included. 

RAISING AWARENESS:  Human Trafficking/Abuse:  Note: View the digital version to activate hyperlinks – www.parmaobserver.com/read/news
O  From The Collaborative to End Human Trafficking:
      >>  Become a Collaborative Community Ambassador ... This is a network of Individuals that are active in their community and would like to volunteer their time to help increase awareness and knowledge about the reality of Human Trafficking. They are looking for individuals that are passionate about the Mission of the Collaborative to End Human Trafficking.
      >>  “Fundamentals of Human Trafficking” presentations are scheduled for 10:30 am, Tues, Oct 4th, and again at 7:00 pm on Tues, Nov 15th, These hour-long presentations are both free and virtual.
      >>  Go here to display a list of the nearly 70 partner organizations & agencies that make up Greater Cleveland’s Coordinated Response to Human Trafficking. Click on any Entry to visit their respective website.
      >>  Know who to call….If you believe someone may be a victim of human trafficking call the Cuyahoga County Regional Human Trafficking Task Force Hotline at 216-443-6085 or 911 in the case of an emergency.     

O  From ICAC Task Force... There are many different approaches parents and children can take to stay safe online. The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention and ICAC presented a virtual session regarding internet safety. To watch the first session,

O  From Cleveland Rape Crisis Center (CRCC):
      >>  It being Back-To-School time, go here to learn of four ways you can help support students and survivors in our community this fall.
      >>  CRCC offers resources on preventing, responding to, and supporting survivors of rape and sexual abuse.
      >>  Learn how YOU can help to prevent sexual abuse in our communities. Whether you’re an educator, healthcare provider, or parent/caregiver, we ALL can play our part. The training is free, virtual & open to all.

O  From Futures Without Violence...Addressing the sharp increases in mental health issues being experienced by youth across the country, Fw/oV has made available some excellent material that educators, youth-serving professionals, juvenile & family court personnel, and of course parents may find helpful. Visit their  Changing Minds NOW website for details. Also available, CDC has published a terrific set of resources to help children and youth transition back to school.

LOCAL EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES:
O  Grant Sources for Nonprofits...Here is another set of five grantors identified by the MyCom network. These have a mostly mental health focus:  > American Mathematical Society (AMS) - Epsilon Fund  > American Chemical Society (ACS) > The American Radio Relay League (AARL) Foundation > The Amgen Foundation   > The ASM Materials Education Foundation.  If you’re affiliated with a family/youth-serving organization visit these funders’ sites to see if your program/service fits their mission.  
 
O  From Parma Council of PTA’s:
      >>  Help support scholarships for Valley Forge students by helping sponsor one of two (or both) PTA-sponsored student events being planned for 2023.  The cost is more than reasonable at $50 each for which your business (or organization) will be listed as a school supporter on the event sponsor board and be publicly acknowledged on their various social media platforms and at PTSA meetings. For more information call/email Melissa Wolfe at 440.552.4960 / mwolfe0921@gmail.com.
      >>  Go here for information regarding upcoming events and activities. Included, among other things, are links to order forms for the PTA’s current School Calendar, and details related to the Annual Kalahari Night Fundraiser scheduled for October 27th.

O  From Parma City Schools: 
      >>  The bond issue on the November ballot funding replacement of Parma H.S. will be 3.95 mills or $11.53/month per $100,000 in property value.  Email bond-related questions to bondissuequestions@parmacityschools.org .  Responses are posted weekly.
      >>  Learn the facts - Click here to view the administration’s presentation of information about the District's ODE Report Card at last month’s board meeting.
      >> If you’re a local business owner, go here to learn more about the district’s Workforce Learning Program. Find out why and how your business can participate to help build a local workforce pipeline.
      >>  Save the Date: 6 – 7 pm, Friday, Oct. 14 – Bonfire & Tailgate party at Byers Field. It’s free and all are welcome. Go here for details.
      >>  Go here to learn more about the recently opened PCSD Historical Museum located at Parma Senior High at the back of the building.

O  From Parma Early Childhood PTA (PECPTA)...Will be hosting their Annual Preschool Showcase – 7:00 to 8:00 pm, Tuesday, Oct. 18th at Shiloh M.S., 2303 Grantwood Dr. The event provides an opportunity to speak with upwards of 15 local preschool programs & youth-serving organizations. For more details, go here.

 O From Ohio Dept of Education (ODE):
      >>  Has introduced a new behavioral health resource that includes screening tools, detection and prevention options, and guidance on when and how to seek help for a child. This online behavioral health resource can help families, teachers and health care professionals manage increasing childhood mental health needs. Learn more here. 
      >>  OHIO LEARNS 360...Click on the link to learn more about this partnership between our local PBS stations and the Ohio Department of Education, which focuses on afterschool programs to address disruptions to learning caused during the COVID-19 pandemic. Or, go here for additional details.
 
O  From The Literacy Cooperative  / Imagination Library... In addition to sending high-quality books each month to kids ages 0 – 5 (enroll your child here), they’ve recently begun providing a series of virtual presentations on health topics of interest to families w/young children. Another session in this Healthy Families series, “A Guide to Your First Year as a Parent” is now available.  Go here to learn more & to register.  Or, go hereto view archived programs.

O  From City of Parma Hts.:
      >>  The police department now has a SAFE ZONE for custody exchanges, private property & e-commerce transactions that are on camera. These are marked spots on the police department parking lot across from their front door facing the library.

O  From Islamic Center of Cleveland, 6055 W. 130th St, Parma, 44130:
      >>  The Ibn Sina Free Health Clinic….offers free healthcare services to community members who are uninsured or underinsured. The clinic serves anyone in need regardless of race, gender, religion, or ethnicity.  Visit https://clevelandibnsina.comfor details.
      >>  Offering Free Fresh Produce on the first Saturday of each month, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Federal program income guidelines apply; please bring your ID & your bags/cart; no admittance before 10:30.

O  From University Settlement/SW Community Based Svcs:
      >>  A Stuff The Truck Diaper Drive is scheduled for 12 – 3:00 pm,  Saturday, Oct. 1st at St. John Bosco Church, 6480 Pearl Rd. Check out the attached flyer for drive details. To learn more about the Diaper Bank of Greater Cleveland & how your organization can partner up, visit https://diaperbankgc.org/

O  From Search Institute...For both educators and parents, check out:
      >>  8 Interventions for Struggling Students
      >>  Getting at the Heart of Student Motivation – Finding Students’ Sparks
Both are easy reads with references to supporting resources.

O From Goods Bank NEO: Go here to learn more about this relatively new organization established to
help nonprofits, schools, and faith-based organizations provide new goods to the people they serve or use them to support their operations, all for a nominal handling fee. If your organization is a qualified 501(c)(3) that has been in existence for two years and has at least two staff and a nonresidential location; the annual membership is $100.  And, if you’re a local corporation looking to support our local non-profit community, partnering up with Goods Bank NEO might be a good way to do that.

O  From Starting Point’s Out-Of-School/After School Dept.:
      >>  For 9th, 10th & 11th-grade students interested in a nursing career, go here to learn more about Cleveland Clinic’s ASPIRE Nurse Scholars program. If nursing is something you’re interested in then this is a must-visit!
      >>  Re: Tri-C – Women In Transition...The last day to register for this popular, free, hybrid, six-week program (held at their Metro Campus this year) will be October 25. Visit tri-c.edu/women-in-transition to learn more.
      ­>>  For educators or any youth-serving organizations (or a parent, for that matter) encouraging an entrepreneurial spirit check out these two free curriculum offerings: Startup Squad for grades 2 – 6 and Upcycle Parts Shop for grades 5- 12.
      >>  Connecting for Kids...Connecting for Kids (CFK) provides education and support for families with a concern about their children. This local organization can help with many types of concerns - from understanding a new diagnosis to family challenges, like divorce or adoption. CFK programs are free to any family with children between the ages of 0-12. Our service area includes Cuyahoga, Lorain, and the surrounding counties. Click on the above link to learn more or download the seasonal program flier.
     >>  To learn more about local Out-Of-School/After-School activities signup for their e-newsletter by contacting: Stacey Gepperth,  Out-of-School Time Specialist at 216.575.0061 x540 or stacey.gepperth@starting-point.org.

O  From Cuyahoga County Public Library (CCPL):
      >>  Student Success Centers (formerly called Homework Help) are now open at 10 CCPL branches. Go here to learn more.
      >>  After-school meals (Kids Café) for kids 18 and under are available Monday thru Friday while supplies last at Parma Hts. from 3:00  to 4:00 pm, Parma-Powers from 3:30  to 4:30 pm, & Parma-Snow from 3:15  to 4:15 pm.
       >>  Go here to view when specific Branches will be hosting a Cleveland Food Bank Mobile Food Pantry. Locally, Parma-Snow will host their Food Pantry from 3:30 – 5:00 pm, Tues., Oct. 4th  (if you have the time, they do need more volunteers);  Parma Hts mobile pantry will take place from 10 – 12 noon on Wed, Oct. 19th.
      >>  Use your CCPL library card (or get one here) to take advantage of just some of these more unique services/programs available at your library.
            > WiFi Access & Computer Classes– A full complement of free, in-person & online computer classes are now available including Microsoft Office Specialist Certification Prep courses.
            > One-on-one tech help is available from the Digital Navigator service.
            > Learn how to hold a conversation in over 70 languages
            > Digital Newstand - Enjoy digital versions of your favorite news publications and magazines
            > Take your pick from thousands of streaming movies & TV shows from Hoopla, Kanopy & Overdrive
            > Design something & use the 3D printing capabilities of the Parma-Snow Innovation Center            
            > Learn more about Library2You, their homebound delivery service
            > Passport services are now available.
            > Check out programs for pre-school & school-aged youth. Scroll down for Teacher resources.
            >Cuyahoga Works: Job and Career Services, ESOL, GED, Citizenship classes
            > Sign up to receive the Library's weekly e-Newsletter
            > Click here to visit CCPL’s Home Page

The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library, partnering with The Greater Cleveland Food Bank, will offer a monthly Mobile Food Pantry distribution on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at the Parma Heights Branch Library, 6206 Pearl Road, on Wednesday, October 19th 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 additionalinformation. 

You’re invited to attend the Corn Husk Dolls workshop, with Joyce Morrow Jones, on Thursday, October 13, 2022, 12:30 to 3:00 PM at the Donna Smallwood Activities Center, 7001 W. Ridgewood Drive. This workshop is free, supplies included, and brought to you by Parma Area Fine Arts Council and in part through a grant from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture. Space is limited, and is filling up fast, so email kathrynmabin@att.net to register now. 

Prama Artspace & Gallery, located at 5411 Pearl Rd , opened an exhibition on September 23, 2022. of work by Gina Washington. titled "Monday's Child". It’s an archaeological dig into family identity, identity expectations, and the dualistic nature of Black Identity in America. This project will consist of photographic portraits manipulated through collage techniques, hand weaving, and embedded augmented reality. The images will illustrate the poem "Monday's Child." Each person represents their born day. The hand building/weaving of each picture connects to the physical process of raising children, and the objects will represent the people no longer present. Opening night the cool jazz duo of Alex Henry & Lovest Watson played. "Monday's Child" is supported by the Satellite Fund, which is administered by SPACES and funded by the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts Regranting Program. The show runs from September 23rd to October 16th. Regular hours are Sun, Wed, Thur, Sat, 2-6 and by and by appointment. 

Radar sign used around the ward to show drivers their speed 

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Ward 9 News Scores of seniors attending a recent Ward 9 Safety Meeting expressed their concerns about traffic safety. THEY MADE THIS HAPPEN! Several Radar Speed-Alert Systems have been deployed at strategic locations identified by Ward 9 residents as having high incidents of speeding. These new devices will identify speeding events, display vehicle speeds, and flash warning lights when speeding occurs. There are no cameras in these systems. The data collected is aggregated and will be used only to evaluate the need for additional safety measures. We trust that motorists in these areas will react to these electronic reminders by slowing down. Additional 25MPH Speed Limit Signs have been installed at locations identified by Safety Meeting attendees. Placements include along Gettysburg Drive, a busy road often called a speedway by senior residents. The partially tree-blocked traffic light at the intersection of Broadview Road and Keystone Road is now in full view, thanks to everyone who called this to our attention. Without your safetyconscious alert, there is no telling when we would have realized the need to prune that tree for maximum safety.

Always follow-thru with your technique

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If you peruse through the news stories in the national headlines you will see numerous stories of women lost or murdered, men shot and killed, and children lost or forgotten. And even though we see these news stories, we keep moving ahead with the belief that they are not an integral part of our own productive lives. That may be true because many of the stories are at a distance from us. But it always touches us in one way or another. We may start thinking about what kind of danger might be surrounding us or of others we know who suffered an unforeseen fate. So, take another look at the city you live in. The statistics may narrow down the chances of you being attacked, but the danger could be lurking from the corners of your safe world.

I grew up in Parma on Theota Avenue near the Pearl and Ridge Road intersection. I attended the Parma Pubic Schools through high school. I graduated from Valley Forge High School in the class of 1966. I was able to go to college right after high school and graduated from Kent State University in June 1970. While I was attending school in Parma, I never gave much a thought about the quality of education I was receiving. I just took the courses I needed to get into college. My grades were good, but I was not National Honor Society; but they were good enough for me to get into college.

Donna Smallwood's family: son-in-law John, daughter Sherri, grandaughter McKenna and grandson Bobby

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The Donna Smallwood Activities Center has something to offer everyone ages 55 and older. We are calling this month "rocktober" because we are a rocking senior activities center with over 100 people coming here daily. Please stop on in and join the fun!

I’ve been privy to scandalous stories about Cleveland Metroparks (CMP): Murders, accidents, lives lost and saved, low staff morale, wanton greed, public trust violations, and the park system’s demonstrably ineffective deer “population control” program, sharpshooting.

Dance teaches the importance of movement and fitness in a variety of ways through a variety of disciplines. As well, dancers learn to connect emotionally with an audience and other people. Whether you're just getting started or are a skilled performer, Charlotte Braun Dance Studio has a class for you! Charlotte Braun Dance Studio offers classes for ages 2.5 and up in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical and modern. Looking for a ballet class?  Students are taught ballet with a combination of both traditional and new methods. Their unique curriculum focuses on individuality and creativity in a non-judgmental environment. In business for over 60 years, Patty Nowak Briggs, is dedicated to helping develop the technical skills of dancers of all levels and experience. Dancers from Charlotte Braun Dance Studio have gone on to obtain numerous college scholarships, professional contracts, to become dance instructors, and even to NYC as a Radio City Rockette at the Radio City Music Hall.