Sferra thanks the members of state House

COLUMBUS -- The Ohio House of Representatives bid farewell to state Rep. Daniel J. Sferra, a Democratic lawmaker from Warren who was defeated by his Republican opponent last month in Sferra's bid for a third two-year term.
"I've enjoyed my service," Sferra said Wednesday atop the rostrum of the House. "I just want to say thank you for giving me the honor of being able to call you my friends."
State Rep. Kenneth A. Carano, an Austintown Democrat, recalled Sferra's so-called "15-minute" rule when anyone ever wanted to speak with him. "If you can't say it in 15 minutes, don't bother to talk to me about it," Carano said, imitating Sferra.
Carano said Sferra never spoke that much in Democratic caucus meetings, but when he did speak, he had something important to relate.
"When he speaks, we all should listen," Carano said.
State Rep. Sandra Stabile Harwood, D-Niles, agreed. "I know you will go on and continue to serve our folks back home," Harwood said.
Sferra, a former mayor of Warren, was defeated by Republican Randy Law in November.
Sferra served as Warren mayor from 1980 to 1995. He served on Warren City Council from 1972 to 1979.