The Grapevine
Local musician Tony Paparella – lead guitarist, song writer and vocalist for the roots-rock band Wishgarden –never set out to win film awards. He simply wanted to create something meaningful for his parents, John and Delores Paparella, in celebration of their fifty years of marriage. The result: “In 50 Years,” an original song he wrote and recorded with his band that includes his sons, Vince and Danny.
What began as a simple plan to shoot a homemade video quickly evolved into a full-scale production after the family teamed up with a professional film company. Danny and Vince were involved in writing the script, and the shoot took place at the Barberton home where their grandparents were married and held their reception in 1958. Family members, including Tony’s wife Susie Paparella, appear as extras, and 8mm footage from the original wedding adds emotional depth to the project. “Recording this song with my sons for my parents was the best experience of my life,” Tony said. “Working together creatively made it unforgettable.”
Though the video wasn’t made with recognition in mind, it has since earned awards at major festivals, taking Gold at the 2025 International Independence Film Awards in Texas, winning Best Music Video at the New York Film & Cinematography Awards, and earning a screening at the prestigious Venice Under the Stars International Film Festivalin Italy.
The public world premiere of the music video “In 50 Years” will take place on July 10 during Downtown@Dusk, the Akron Art Museum’s free summer concert series. Wishgarden includes Saam Cabot, Zavier Ali, Mike Lenz, Mark Topik, Daniel Kshywonis, Bob Mozik, and Tony Paparella with Vince Paparella on bass and Danny Paparella on drums. “The song asks, ‘Where are we going to be in 50 years?’” Tony said. “We don’t have the answers, just the questions. But if our story helps others see themselves in it, that’s the real reward.”
Congratulations to Tony and the entire Paparella family on this beautiful, heartfelt achievement. What a powerful reminder of how art, family and love can come together to tell a story that resonates far beyond our town.
Big congratulations to the 41st Class of Leadership Akron, including fellow Bath residents January Miller, Amanda Strickler, Jarod Hampshire, and me.
Being part of this 10-month journey has been truly eye opening and rewarding. It gave us the chance to meet and learn from leaders across so many different fields, better understand the real challenges and strengths of greater Akron, and grow into more thoughtful, connected community leaders.
Leadership Akron is a selective program that brings together people from all walks of life that want to make a bigger difference in our community. Each session – designed by alumni – dives into important issues and includes visits to meaningful places around the area. It’s been a powerful way to learn, build relationships and feel inspired to make a positive impact.
The Akron Art Museum’s annual wine auction, chaired by Dedee O’Neil, successfully raised funds to support the museum’s programs and exhibitions. This year’s event embraced the vibrant theme “Mosaic at the Museum,” highlighting how many different pieces come together to create something greater than the sum of their parts.
“This theme perfectly reflects our museum and the incredible community that supports it,” said Jon Fiume, museum director and CEO.
The event wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of many hands and hearts. The planning committee included Rose Andrews, Lyn Bober, Jeff Bruno, Laurajeanne Fligor, Molly DeHoff Holtzer, Paige Hoover, Meghan Meeker, Kathryn Michael, Chris Myeroff, Laura and Nevin Nussbaum, Laura Purdy, Duane and Earline Roe, Jane Stathopoulos, Bill and Trish Steere, Courtney Steere, and Suzanne Woods.
Among the attendees were several Bath friends including Dr. Anne Caveny and Dr. Wayne Hedrick, Nick andMaureen Katanic, Rick and Susan Lobalzo, Kara Buckler, Nicole Vincent, Phil and Alex Vukoder, Dr. Ganesh and Dr. Suganthi Veerappan, and MaryKay and John Chlebina.
Congratulations to Camryn Bir, a senior at Revere High School, who was awarded the prestigious $2,500 STAR scholarship from the Philanthropic Educational Organization Sisterhood. The P.E.O. STAR scholarship is based on excellence in leadership, academics, extracurricular activities, community service and potential for future success.
In addition to a variety of school activities, Camryn has served as president of both Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society and Project Planet. Camryn volunteers as a stream monitor for Summit County where she conducts testing along the Cuyahoga River to assess the water quality and health of the watershed. In the fall, she will pursue a double major in biomedical engineering and data analytics at The Ohio State University.
Ron Garman, a Bath resident and retired Revere teacher, recently received special recognition from the American Cancer Society for raising over $100,000 to support Relay For Life, the society’s signature event that unites communities to honor cancer survivors and raise funds for research and patient support. Ron and his wife, Carol, have been proud supporters of Relay For Life for 15 years through their involvement with Team Bath/Richfield.
Ron’s commitment to supporting cancer patients is deeply personal. Diagnosed with acute leukemia as a child, he is now an inspiring 60-plus year survivor. A Roy Rogers enthusiast with “Happy Trails” as his personal theme song, Ron embodies the true cowboy spirit. Often seen around town in his western boots and hat, he offers his homemade mustard in exchange for donations to his campaign.
You can support Relay For Life by purchasing Ron’s homemade mustard at the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop in Akron.Thanks so much to everyone who shared their stories and inspired our readers with your amazing accomplishments and generous spirit. I’d love to hear more and celebrate all the good news, so keep sending your updates to me at avukoder@gmail.com. Wishing you all a fantastic summer!