Fundraiser benefit set Sunday for Robert Melone in Boardman

BOARDMAN — A fundraiser buffet dinner and auction is set for Sunday afternoon for Robert John Melone, a Poland native and 1991 graduate of Poland Seminary High School and executive chef, who was recently involved in a motorcycle accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down.

Melone was trained at the Pennsylvania Institute of Culinary Arts and worked as a chef locally at several restaurants and county clubs in Boardman, Youngstown, Howland and Salem, before moving to other restaurants around the country.

After his accident, he was hospitalized and placed in nursing facilities for one year and was recently moved back to Poland.

A “Motor On For RJM” benefit dinner is planned to assist Melone’s family in his care. The event will be noon to 4 p.m. at the social hall at St. Charles Church, 7345 Westview Drive.

Organizers are still seeking baskets or singular items to be included in the raffles. Gift certificates to local restaurants, salons and stores are also needed. Drop off items at Scarsella’s Restaurant, 4151 Market St., Youngstown, or call Roslyn Schmidt at 330-360-1904 to organize a donation.