Parma Heights

The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library will present a virtual program Luminaria: Candle Shades on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. This event will be held virtually on Zoom. Registration required.  Learn how to combine wax paper, washi tape, and decorative elements to create beautiful glowing lanterns that add a warm glow to any small candle. The library will provide materials free of charge but registered participants will also need a few items from home. To register and for more information about this virtual program, visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or contact a librarian at the Parma Heights Branch at 440.884.2313

The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library will present Saturday Afternoon Book Discussion onSaturday, May 21, 2022 from 2:30-4:00 p.m. in Meeting Room C.  In-person program. Join a librarian from the Adult Services Department for a brand new, staff-led book discussion we discuss The Midnight Library by Matt Haig.  Registration requiredbefore picking up a copy of the book at the circulation desk. To register, visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch Library at 440.884.2313.   

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, May 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. 

If you're celebrating Mother's Day, going local is a great way to find unique gifts while supporting the local mom and pop shops in our midst. After reaching out to many mothers to ask what they would like for Mother' Day, almost every one of them wanted one thing. They want something affordable, so you won't need to bust open your piggy bank, and something from your heart. 

Olivia Kude of Seven Hills and Shivam Mahajan of Parma Heights participated in the 2022 District Science Day. The two of them earned the ranking of "Excellent" for their projects “Gasteria vs Crassula” and “Stealthy figures” respectively. The sixth graders were among a record-breaking number of 5th through 8th grade Birchwood students to receive recognition at the event. 

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. Parma Heights Branch Library, 6206 Pearl Road, on Wednesday, April 20th 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 Iditarod Trail on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 from 7:00 –8:30 p.m.  Join local dog sledding enthusiast Eleanor Csizmadia who will share her experiences visiting the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and her passion for this most unique sporting event in the world. Returning from attending the 2022 Iditarod, Eleanor will speak about her studies of the Last Great Race and share photos. Eleanor will discuss the history, facts, rules and what makes this race so special and unique. Learn about the mushers, the race, the Cleveland connection to the 2023 race and why dogs love to run. Sponsored by The Friends of the Parma Heights Branch Library. In-person program. Registration required. To register, visit www.cuyahogalibrary.orgor call the Parma Heights Branch Library at 440.884.2313. 

The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public LIbrary will host a virtual program You Must Learn: a Discussion about Cleveland’s Hip-Hop Cultural History on Tuesday, April 5, 2022 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. In the 1980s and 1990s, Cleveland was home to one of the most fertile hip-hop cultural arts scenes in the country. From the rap music of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony to graffiiti artists to dance groups, Northeast Ohio’s hip-hop roots run deep. Part of ThirdSpace Action Lab’s “Chocolate Cities” project, Twelve Literary Arts and Spread the Love Foundation will discuss ways to better document Cleveland’s rich cultural legacies. Learn more about some of Cleveland’s true legends of  “Theiveland” hip-hop and Cleveland’s history of hip-hop. This event will be held virtually on Zoom. Registration required. To register, visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or contact a librarian at the Parma Heights Branch at 440.884.2313. 

The Parma Heights Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library will host New Outlook/New You on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in Meeting Room A. As the world hits the reset button, trainer and extreme endurance athlete Tony Sigmund will talk about how to learn to take charge of your inner growth, despite external circumstances, in order to create the reality you want. In-person program. Registration required. To register, visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch Library at 440.884.2313. 

For peep's sake, I hope everyone gets the chance to "shop small" in preparation for the upcoming holidays of Easter and Passover. The small businesses in Parma Heights are egg-septional. If you are not lucky enough to know the people behind the counters where you go, don't worry, be hoppy. Perhaps now might be an egg-cellent time to make a change, look around and try a new place. On  2ND Friday, April 8th, select Pearl Road businesses in Parma Heights will be giving out Easter eggs, treats, and special giveaways. Some stores will be revealed on the Facebook page  "Parma Heights 2ND Fridays" That's egg-sactly right!  Ask friends, neighbors or some bunny for suggestions on the egg-citing independently-owned gems where you live and don't just hop over there and race through, but take the time and a little bit of effort to get to know the real heart and soul of Pearl Road, the mom & pop shops and family-operated favorites of the community, and you'll find a basket full of egg-citement. Shop small businesses hoppily ever after. And have an egg-celent Easter!

On Saturday, March 6 Shivam Mahajan from Parma Heights and his partner Nelson Kude placed second in the "Don't Bug Me" category of the 2022 Science Olympiad competition held at Case Western Reserve University. The Birchwood team, coached by Linda Brown, Michelle Bogden, Lauren Miller, Sam Miller, and Rana Bottino have been practicing since October 2021. This team composed of fourth through sixth-grade students faced off with many local schools and this event and met with great results.

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.  Boxes of shelf stable food items will be available for curbside pickup—first come, first serve--at the Parma Heights Branch Library, 6206 Pearl Road, on Wednesday, March 16th 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. 

Join a librarian from the Adult Services Department at The Parma Heights Branch LIbrary of Cuyahoga County Public Library for a brand new, staff-led book discussion with registration required before picking up a copy of the book at the circulation desk. To register, visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch Library at 440.884.2313. Join us for Saturday Afternoon Book Discussion onSaturday, March 19, 2022 from 2:30-4:00 p.m. in Meeting Room C as we discuss Yellow Wife by Sadeqa Johnson. Registration required for this in-person book discussion and spaces limited.  

The Parma Heights Branch Library of Cuyahoga County Public Library will host This is How We Brew Iton Monday, March 7, 2022 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in Meeting Room C. Curious about how malts and hops transform into your favorite beer? Michael Williams, Education Director at Great Lakes Brewing Co., will present and talk about GLBC’s production process and its beers. Learn breakdown from mash tun into beer can. In-person program. Registration required. To register, visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch Library at 440.884.2313. 

Located at the intersection of "I want a drink" and Pearl Road and Commonwealth Blvd., Martini's Drive Thru beverage store, 6505 Pearl Road, Parma Heights, may very well be the pinnacle of American convenience. This drive thru is worth a detour on your next road trip. The best part about this drive-thru?  It's actually a drive-through, as in you drive inside the store, right up to the cashier. Plus in addition to selling beer and wine, they sell all your basics from chips, snacks and candy. The building used to be an old oil change store, but the owner grew it into a local establishment that is servicing the community in more ways than just selling beverages. The wants and needs of the customers are the No. 1 priority in key to being successful. Being greeted with a familiar and smiling face, and a bright, cheerful store stocked with a wide variety of craft suds, and even offer hand-selected wines by the knowledgeable owner. There are a variety of options for those who enjoy Cabernet, Chardonnay, or Merlot. And unique wines such as 19 Crimes Snoop Cali Red and 19 Crimes Cabernet Sauvignon, and commemorative Browns-themed wine bottles. 

The Parma Heights Branch Library of Cuyahoga County Public Library will host Deep Cover Cuyahoga County on Monday, March 14, 2022 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in Meeting Room C. Author Laura Peskin will talk about her three-volume book series Deep Cover Cuyahoga County and share a PowerPoint presentation with video. Learn fascinating information about suburban Cuyahoga County and marvel at local history—including Space Age architecture off Pearl Road! In-person program. Book sale following the presentation. Registration required. To register, visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org or call the Parma Heights Branch Library at 440.884.2313. 

Whether you plan to celebrate Valentine's Day at home or out this year, here are just a few of the best locally owned shops to find that special gift for yourself, your friends, and that special Valentine! 

The board gaming hobby can be a little overwhelming to start, but Brandon at Gamers Haven will show you how to jump in head first. Or maybe you've wanted to join a gaming community and want an opportunity to meet even more gamers? Checking out Gamers Haven, 6639 Pearl Road in Parma Heights, might be the next best step for you! The staff is knowledgeable, beyond friendly, and all around great to talk to about board games.

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. Boxes of shelf stable food items will be available for curbside pickup—first come, first serve--at the Parma Heights Branch Library, 6206 Pearl Road, on Wednesdays, November 17th, December 15th and January 19th, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. -12 Noon for customers who are in need. Please visit or call the Parma Heights Branch Library at 440.884.2313 for additional information. 

Bullying happens every day and we all know what a bully is, or do we? Before we try to answer this question, it must be understood that some bullying victims may not always let on that they are being bullied. They may hide it because they may fear consequences of more bullying, not being believed, or that the situation might be ignored by adults.

As someone who has worn glasses since I was twelve, I know the struggle of getting a new pair of glasses all too well. But thanks to 168 Optical, you can now shop easily and inexpensively for prescription eyeglasses. 168 Optical is located at 6315 Pearl Road on the 2nd floor, Ste #206 in Parma Heights. At 168 Optical, frames start at just $38 and carry a line called Twelve84. 1284 represents the year that glasses were invented in Italy. Twelve84 is a line that blends style, function and affordability with a simple all inclusive pricing structure. These frames are ideal for the occasional eyeglass wearer or the budget and fashion conscious.

The only thing that makes watching the game even better is cheering for your team in a crowd of other folks ready to go just as nuts as you when Baker Mayfield lobs the ball to Nick Chubb in the end zone. Whether you're looking for the perfect place to find rabid fans or you need a hideout where it's okay to root for Tom Brady, Parma Heights sports bars are full of people that make games even more exciting to watch, win or lose.

For most teenagers and young adults, acne can be a frustrating part of daily life. Often the butt of jokes and teasing among friends, the common skin condition can prompt emotional pain as well. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne affects more than 50 million Americans each year with most sufferers falling between the ages 12 and 24. During this impressionable time in adolescent development, it is vital for parents to watch for the telltale signs that acne might be triggering psychological issues.

An event like 2ND Fridays is long overdue for Parma Heights and is a welcome addition to the city's entertainment offerings. Consider it a block party along Pearl road to help promote and maintain an economically vital business district that is attractive and accessible to people of all ages. After a soft opening last month, Friday September 10th highlights a Scavenger Hunt along Pearl road. One will explore Parma Heights like never before. Work by yourself or with a team to answer trivia questions and complete photo challenges. Forms will be available the day before on the Facebook page of Parma Heights 2ND Fridays. Admission: FREE  Skill Level: Competitive Fun  Travel Method: Walking 

As a Cuyahoga County Recycling Ambassador, I wanted to share with you that recycling is easy in Parma Heights and Parma and having a cart just for recyclables makes it even easier! 

Throughout the past year, the pandemic has made navigating life’s many hurdles even more challenging. For women who were already juggling careers, kids, and households, being thrust into the role of educator while still being relied upon as a homemaker created significant burdens for moms everywhere. That’s why Cox Communications decided to enlist the support of the communities it serves to recognize deserving mothers with a $1,000 prize for the many ways they improve the lives of everyone around them by announcing the first-ever Super Moms campaign, just in time for Mother's Day.

A crosswalk is a kind of promise. When we step into the street, we believe that drivers will stop. The white lines are a promise that we will be safe. Parma Heights takes care to re-paint the lines every year or so. The crosswalks ask us to trust one another. But having a solo pedestrian crosswalk on a busy State route is useless, or even worse, an actual hazard. 

“Are there going to be trees in the middle of Pearl Road?” “The most beautiful crosswalks in Ohio.” “Love the new signs.” With all the great comments we are hearing at city hall, it’s clear that people are buzzing about Parma Heights! There are a lot of physical changes taking place on Pearl Road but before I get into a summary, let me answer that first question.

Did you ever look down the street, and what do you see? Yard after yard of green grasses and yellow dandelions. You might think that this is a pretty sight, but if your a native bird like a chickadee and you're looking to raise a nest of three babies there is nothing here for you to feed your babies. The chickadee used to have lots of food for its nest but these days the cities are planting non-native trees and there is not a true native tree anywhere in sight. So the day is coming that you will just be another extinct native bird. A chickadee needs 6,000 to 9,000+ caterpillars to successfully raise its three babies, and this is a 1/3 of an ounce bird. The oak tree would be a dream come true, but those are in short supply in my city, where no one wants a tree in their yard. You know, they might have to do some work. We all live in this environment. Yes, you and me too. If we continue to not care about the insects of our world, humans will also become extinct. But then we did it to ourselves and only have ourselves to blame!    

On the bubbly, cheesy surface, pizza is just dough, sauce, and toppings. How hard can it be to make, right?  But for a small group of passionate pizzaiolos in Parma Heights, pizza is a constant learning experience in search of perfection. For a long while, Parma Heights' pizza scene consisted mostly of national chains, where toppings, sauces, and dough were a sad lineup of sameness. But with a sense of camaraderie and an organic exchange of ideas, a few standouts are refreshing the once-boring Parma Heights pizza landscape.

From gifts and cards to cocktails and dinner, consumers are expected to spend an average $200 on Valentine's Day.  If you are going to spend on the Day of Hearts, why not take the opportunity to shop locally?  Parma Heights is home to creative and caring people who run thoughtful businesses. Many of them pouring money back into the community.  So here's a few suggestions of purpose driven places to shop locally all across the city:

This story is related to Andrew “Andy” Novak, 51, a retired forklift driver from Parma, OH, he began experiencing shortness of breath and severe chest pain on January 20, 2018. Moments after telling his wife he may need to go to the hospital, she found him unresponsive on the couch. Andy’s wife and daughter began CPR while they called 911. The Parma Heights Fire Department arrived at the home four minutes later and quickly transported him to UH Parma Medical Center.

Parma Heights is now one step closer to the construction of a retention basin at Nathan Hale Park to help alleviate the flooding problem residents have been experiencing primarily in the area south of Pearl Road and west of York Road. After a long and complicated process that begin in 2017 and involved administration, residents and community partners, the city has filed and is awaiting approval of a comprehensive application required by the National Park Service before construction can begin. Funding for the project is in place by way of a $1 million Community Infrastructure Grant from the Northeast Ohio Sewer District (NEORSD).

Well, we are certainly living history and maneuvering our way through this time is not always easy and often confusing. As things change on a daily and weekly basis, the City of Parma Heights strives to share information with our residents, businesses, and community in as many ways as possible and I am grateful to the Parma Observer for the opportunity to communicate here.

It seems that our world has been turned inside out, doesn’t it? Residents of Parma Heights, like every other community, are feeling the effects.  But hopefully you’ll find this information helpful as we all continue to adjust to our new normal of working at home and social distancing.

PARMA HEIGHTS -- As he indicated he intended to do more than 18 months ago, Bob Stoesser has now formally stepped down from his leadership role as Board President at the Cassidy Theatre, Inc., having held that position for 10 years. New at the helm is President Michael “Mike” Caraffi, who works for PNC Bank and has an extensive background as a business analyst. He has been a longtime volunteer actor, performer and director at our local community theatre gem. Caraffi is a good choice for heading up the theatre’s Board. The Cassidy, which has struggled to fill seats for years since the decision to privatize it. The municipality still owns the building, but no longer has the responsibility for its day-to-day operation. Caraffi, an accomplished pianist and performer, knows both sides of the theatrical and business equation – something that will come in handy as he works to chart a new course for our local community theatre, founded by the late Parma Heights Mayor Paul W. Cassidy for his wife, Elise, a former actress, in 1974.

It’s that time again. The Parma Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for the 2020 Pride Awards. The awards will be presented Saturday, March 14 at a planned Roaring 20’s gala at Stillwater Place on the grounds of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland.

Mark your calendars now for this special program at the Parma Heights branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, which you don’t want to miss. Award-winning authors Fran Golden and David G. Molyneaux, former travel editor of the Plain Dealer, will visit our library at 7 p.m. Tuesday, December 17 to discuss their latest book, Unique Eats and Eateries of Cleveland, and will also discuss some of the people who built Cleveland’s most iconic restaurants. Golden and David G. Molyneaux have been writing and eating their way through the Forest City for decades. They’ll appear in Meeting Room A of the library, 6206 Pearl Road. Register online for the program at Cuyahogalibrary.org.

The city has a new Director of Finance and Personnel. Katie Iaconis says she looks forward to working with the administration and Parma Heights residents in her new role. She replaces veteran Finance Director Terry Hickey, who retired this summer after 51 years with the city. “It’s exciting,” she said. “I really enjoy projects. There’s a lot of ways for us (the city) to save money and be more efficient.”

In the last twelve months, Pathway received 2,400 referrals for Northeast Ohio children of all ages needing to be placed in a safe and nurturing home. Today, Cuyahoga County represents over 60% of our foster care referrals. There are children in our own community, who sit next to your child in school, who have been abused and neglected and are in need of a foster family.