Kids In the Commons 2017 A Huge Success

Balloons by Blake proved to be one of the most popular attractions for children and their families during the "Kids in the Commons" weekend.

They came, they saw, they had fun. The City of Parma Heights' second annual Kids in the Commons weekend was a rousing success. Held August 12 and 13, 2017 at the Greenbrier Commons Complex, the event was purely designed for family fun. "This event has become a summer tradition in Parma Heights," said Mayor Michael P. Byrne.  "We were so happy to see so many members of the community join us and take part in the fun."

The YMCA of Greater Cleveland presented YSplash, a water safety and education program for kids. The city pool and waterpark was open continuously for all to enjoy. Along with that, there was DJ Island Jeff, who presented his unique brand of Steel Drum Music, balloon twisting, fun with bubbles, air brush tattoos, sand volleyball, cornhole and bocce ball.

Parma Heights recently installed new Pickleball courts, and they were in use throughout the weekend. The Cleveland Metroparks were part of the weekend with their Nature Tracks and EcoExplorer vehicles. University Hospitals Parma Medical Center visited with their safety vehicle on Saturday, and the MedEVac helicopter on Sunday. The Cuyahoga County Public Library's Parma Heights branch offered free selfies for children, along with a special craft project for each child. A Saturday evening movie, "Moana" brought out a very large crowd during its outdoor screening. 

A Sunday afternoon family storytime, with special guest readers, including Parma Heights City Council Members and Mayor Michael Byrne proved itself quite popular. The Parma Heights Historical Society offered old fashioned games for children and families, while selling the "official" Parma Heights T-shirt.

Hundreds turned out. "Kids in the Commons" was the result of generous support from the Cleveland Metroparks, University Hospitals Parma Medical Center, the Parma Heights branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, and the YMCA of Greater Cleveland. Sponsors included Mayor Michael P. Byrne, Yorktown Lanes, and the Parma Heights Food Pantry, as well as Councilmembers Jim McCall, Robert Verdile and Renee Everett. "We are already planning for next year's event," said Byrne. "You won't want to miss it." The weekend of activities concluded with a Summer Band Concert featuring Wayne Tomsic.

Rick Haase

Rick Haase handles Public Relations and Special Projects in the Office of Parma Heights Mayor Michael P. Byrne

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Volume 9, Issue 9, Posted 1:01 PM, 09.01.2017