Debbie Palmer has been a community journalist since earning a communication degree at Cleveland State University. She was an award-winning writer at the Sun Newspapers, where she worked as a reporter and assistant editor, overseeing the Sun Star and writing news and feature stories in Strongsville, including the Police Blotter.

Debbie grew up in Brook Park and is a lifelong west-sider. She worked at the former Brookgate Movies during high school and college, selling popcorn and tickets. After landing a job at the Sun Newspapers, she developed a strong commitment to community journalism and went on to win numerous writing awards from Suburban Newspapers of America, Ohio Society of Professional Journalists and the Cleveland Press Club.  

Debbie is married to Strongsville High School grad Ken Wood. They have a son, Brandon and two cats. Debbie walks every day for exercise (and stress-relief) and enjoys reading, word puzzles and her iPod Touch.

debbie.palmer@patch.com

(216) 280-2200

Your Beliefs
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Politics 
How would you describe your political beliefs? 

I'm middle-of-the-road, with liberal leanings.

Religion
How religious would you consider yourself?

I guess I'd say spiritual rather than religious.

Local Hot-Button Issues
What do you think are the most important issues facing the community?

Like every city, Strongsville is facing budget woes and needs to keep providing services without new tax dollars. The school district is also at a crossroads, trying to convince voters to approve levies under Ohio's broken-down funding system and with criticism about cutbacks officials have made.  I'd also say the lack of an no-kill animal shelter is an issue here.