DEAR EDITOR:

Through the efforts of Canfield’s American Legion Post #177 and many generous individuals and organizations, the veteran’s plaza is a reality. It is an outstanding tribute to our veterans and enhances the city green.

In order to recognize all of the 250 persons and organizations involved, a framed metal sign embossed with the names of individual contributors and organizations was designed and built to be installed at the entrance to the plaza; however, the Design Review Commission and the Parks and Cemetery Board refused permission to install the sign! It’s another example of Canfield’s obstructionism.

Board members are appointed by council. Council has the right and prerogative to change or overrule any decision made by any board. At the Aug. 9 city council meeting, a motion was made by council member Chuck Tieche to allow the sign to be installed.

Several people spoke in favor of the sign installation, including Leo Connolley Jr., a wounded Vietnam veteran and commander of the Ohio Department of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

After much discussion, the final vote was taken. In favor of installing the sign were Mayor Dan Dragish and council members Bruce Neff and Chuck Tieche. Voting against the sign installation were council members Anthony Nacarato and John Morvay. Fortunately, better judgment prevailed and the issue was passed. No good deed goes unpunished.

The sign is installed. The over 250 persons and organizations are honored in a public display of their part in the veteran’s plaza. The sign is not obtrusive and is there for all to see as they enter the plaza. What better tribute can we pay to our veterans and all who supported the plaza? The city of Canfield can be proud of the plaza and is justified in recognizing and publicly displaying the names of all who contributed.

FRANK A. MICCHIA

Canfield