Honor recognizes time and effort spent

YOUNGSTOWN — The pride that Charlie Staples takes in the appearance of his barbecue restaurant helps Youngstown to look good.

So, too, does the care North Side homeowner Carole Pesa takes with her flower beds. As does Youngstown State University Student Government Association’s devotion to restoring the gardens at the former Wick-Pollock Inn.

Each of the 16 individuals, businesses, institutions and community groups that were recognized Tuesday at CityScape’s Beautification Awards ceremony has done a small part to beautify Youngstown.

The organization, which has made improving the city’s landscape its mission, wanted to highlight the large impact of small contributions, said executive director Sharon Letson.

“When you have all these things going on at the same time, and you see that impact across the board, that’s the key,” said Letson.

CityScape chose the recipients of its awards from all parts of the city — those with great resources and those with few.

“The point is not that a lot has been spent, but that a lot of time and effort have been spent,” said Letson.

For more, see Wednesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com