Greetings:

Thank you for subscribing to my email newsletter that enables you to obtain pertinent information on a monthly basis about the great things happening in Parma and also to get insights on timely public policy issues.

First, thanks to all who participated in my second annual Charity 5K Run and Fun Walk last month that benefited the American Heart Association. Over $2,500.00 was raised for this charity and the number of runners and walkers increased significantly from last year's event. Next spring information will be provided for the 2006 Run, so watch this space for details.

As always, Parma celebrates the Fourth of July in a big way. It begins with an annual parade that kicks off at 10 AM at the intersection of Ridge and Snow Roads and ends at the Parmatown Mall. If you'd like to march in the parade with me and my staff, call Michelle Blair on (440) 885-8001 to get signed up, parade assembly details and to order your free T-shirt.

Then at 7:30 PM, the City hosts its yearly fireworks extravaganza at Cuyahoga Community College's Western Campus located at York and Pleasant Valley Roads. Even though the fireworks display begins at dusk, this event draws thousands annually, so come early to get a good seat and parking.

On Thursday, July 14, beginning at 10 AM, Marlborough Park will be renamed for former Mayor John Petruska. You are cordially invited to the re-dedication ceremony and to acknowledge Parma's 10th mayor.

Another rite of summer in Parma is the Miss Parma Pageant which will be held on Sunday, July 17, at the Schaaf Community Center, beginning at 1 PM. With your schedule permitting, please join me and the other judges who will crown this year's winner.

If you're a lover of the Metroparks, you'll be pleased to know that on Thursday, July 21, beginning at 10:30 AM, the City of Parma, along with the members of the West Creek Preservation committee, will hold a ceremonial signing agreement with Metroparks for the agency to operate West Creek. This historic undertaking and partnership will make Parma's own 350-acre nature facility a part of the renowned Emerald Necklace and provide for generations to come a protected green space in Ohio's seventh largest municipality.

In other city matters, I am elated that the City is moving closer to constructing two new fire stations that will provide even more safety for Parma residents and businesses. Groundbreaking for these new facilities is expected in the spring of 2006 with further details made available as developments occur.

Parma is on the move and I'm grateful to serve as mayor and to continue making this municipality one that residents and businesses alike are proud to call "home."

Your support is appreciated and I look forward to serving the needs and requirements of this great city. More updates will be coming your way in my August Email Newsletter.

Dean DePiero