The sun was out as tables were being set, raffle baskets arranged, and the first of 135 guests arrived for the Parma Hilton Historical Society’s 55th Annual Banquet—a May tradition for Parma and Hilton residents to enjoy an evening together.
Andy Fowler, Hilton’s newly elected Mayor, and his wife, along with Parma Town Supervisor Dave Ciufo and his wife, were in attendance, along with former mayors and supervisors.
World War II Veteran Henry Ross was the special guest of honor for the evening. Hank, as he is known, was a Tech Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force. As a Waste Gunner, he participated in 50 bombing missions over Romania and Munich, Germany. Many guests stopped by Hank’s table to thank him for his service.
Partygoers also filled a birthday card with well-wishes and notes for Hank as he anticipates his 102nd birthday this Saturday, May 16. He lives next door to his niece and nephew on Peck Road, where he is still independent and enjoys visits from friends and relatives.
The theme of the evening was “A Night at the Commercial Hotel Tavern,” which once stood on the site of M&T Bank on Main Street and East Avenue. Popular duo The Biscuit Brothers provided upbeat entertainment, weaving the community’s history into their program, following a buffet meal served by Forest Hills Restaurant.
For more information about the Parma Hilton Historical Society, visit https://www.parmahiltonhistoricalsociety.com.
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