Fundraiser benefit for paralyzed chef is Sunday in Boardman

Staff report

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 recently was 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 country 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 recently was moved back to Poland.

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

Funds raised will assist in providing a handicapped/converted van to provide Melone with increased independence as well as transportation to his Cleveland doctors, where programs for health and life survival training are offered.

Funds raised also will help with his rising medical needs. A bank fund will be set up for “Motor On For RJM.”

The event will offer basket raffles, basket auctions, and a 50-50 drawing starting at 3:30 p.m. Winners do not have to be present, and winning items will be available for pick up for seven days after date of event.

Live entertainment will be provided by Lenny and Dominic DiTommaso, followed by Tony Horvath and Andrea Karas Cicoretti.

The buffet menu will feature penne pasta with sauce and meatballs, citrus-grilled chicken breast provided by Scarsella’s Restaurant, buttered corn, salad, bread and butter, cake provided by Nemenz IGA, and other refreshments.

Cost is $15 for those 12 and older; $8 for children 5 to 11; and free for children 4 and younger. Each ticket purchase earns an entry for a door prize.

Tickets are available at Scarsella’s Restaurant, 4151 Market St., or by contacting Roslyn Schmidt at 330-360-1904.

Organizers still are seeking baskets or singular items to be included in the raffles. Gift certificates to local restaurants, salons and stores also are needed. Drop off items at Scarsella’s or call Schmidt to organize a donation.