Who are the leaders in Youngstown?

[Mary_Krupa]

I also recognize John Swierz as a community leader. I say this for several reasons. One is his great spirit of involvement and enthusiasm. Not too many people have hopeful attitudes about the city. I do, but I do get depressed reading the Vindicator and driving around town looking at the rundown areas which look like war zones. I can't help recall the old days when it was thriving and prosperous. Of course, it wasn't the most gorgeous city in the world, there's always room for improvement, but there definitely was life and energy. John's attitude is a personal reminder to me not to wallow around in hopelessness. I feel John focuses on the energy that is here and the potential of the energy that is just around the corner. He has many ideas about fun things for the city as well as jobs. He also works hands-on with citizens in beautification efforts or neighborhood events. I know this because I have been at the same events and meetings and have participated in clean-ups and beautifications in which he has physically labored, spent his own dollars for donuts and supplies and spent hours working on these projects. His attitude is contagious and much needed.

Another aspect of his attitude is in regard to funding. People often give up because they don't think they can get the funding for a project. I agree with John that if you are really behind something the money will come. Attitude is the biggest thing and can work miracles. I think we need to surround ourselves with people who have hope about Youngstown and choose to think highly about what we can accomplish. We can definitely accomplish a lot. Sometimes we just need to reminded. Actually, in our situation we need to be reminded daily. We must choose not to wallow in all the bad things that have happened and that still happen. If you do that then you lose hope and you get nowhere except where we are now. We must move beyond this. We aren't victims of this situation and we aren't helpless. There are a heck of a lot of good things happening in the city now that with the same continued effort of the concerned citizens involved, will reach a critical mass and have a huge positive impact on the area. We need to advertise these efforts, support the leadership behind them and become involved each in his or her own way. No matter if it seems like a small way. Every way counts. Involvement is crucial.  Attitude is crucial.

Anyway, I think John Swierz captures the essence of what I have been rambling on about here. Let's support leadership like his. Naturally, we won't always agree with him, but we need to see beyond disagreements and see the value of his leadership in the big picture. No one accomplishes alone. A good leader rises above ego and takes the ideas of the people he serves whether he agrees with them or not, thinks about these ideas, incorporates them or gleans parts of them and comes out with an even stronger plan of action (stronger because it was part of a united effort) and then implements it one way or another with the help of others.

[William]

Rufus Hudson

[KenneyJoe]

John R. Swierz, President of Youngstown City Council, is an extremly active, energetic and capable leader.  He was instrumental in helping form Block Watch Groups including the Lansingville Block Watch.  Swierz brought together people to help form the 7th Ward Citizens Coalition.  His "call to action" and "hands on" efforts resulted in community garden spots, clean up efforts and beautification of Powers Cemetry among other projects.  His "ear" toward his constituents resulted in the Ipes Field Playground. His interest in First Night Youngstown has drawn residents and outsiders to see the many wonderful and positive aspects of downtown Youngstown.  Swierz's Nostalgia led to the return of The Greater Youngstown Area Soap Box Derby, another positive and family oriented event.  President of Council Swierz leadership has, no doubt, made him some political enemies, however his firm stance and ability have won him respect in the 7th Ward, accross the city and those who "watch" wherever they are.  Visit John at his website at: www.jrswierz-poc.com 

[Mark1]

Holly B.  She is a member of the Mahoning River Committee.

[Mary_Krupa]

Enlighten me. I moved back to the area last year and don't know who Tom Anderson is. Could you give some additional info?

Thanks!

[Robert H.]

Tom Anderson
Mr. Anderson knows something about every aspect of the community including legislation.  Tom is on a first name basis with most elected officials in the city and county.  He is very active in several organizations and strives to help all residents.

[jay]

Who do people in Youngstown consider to be community leaders?
 
The person does not have to be a past or present office holder.