FREE Volume 14 Number 6 take one June 1, 2021 HEIGHTS OBSERVER read local. shop local. Published by

Written by volunteers for Cleveland Heights and University Heights • Read more at www.heightsobserver.org RTA service changes coming to CH and UH Free parking at all Cleve- Vince Reddy line 9 ends its westbound trips in the land Heights center of the Cleveland Clinic campus, meters On June 13, the Greater Cleveland at East 93rd Street and Euclid Avenue, Regional Transit Authority (RTA) will while the NEXT GEN line 9 will serve introduce its NEXT GEN service the Clinic only from stops along East revisions, which will bring major 105th Street and Hough Avenue. INSIDE changes to Cleveland Heights and Rush-hour trips on line 9 now skip University Heights. Severance Circle and travel between 8 In 2019, RTA hired Jarett Walker Richmond Road and the Mayfield Register your ce R eddy and Associates to assist with rede- Red Line station in 22 minutes. Under garden for signing its route network to improve NEXT GEN, rush-hour trips all will Garden Walk service frequency and connectivity Vi n courtesy enter Severance, increasing trip time CH by June 7 within the constraints of its financial The stretches of RTA’s bus network shown in to 28 minutes. The change is necessary resources. This type of streamlining yellow will lose service on June 13. because line 37, which now serves Sev- has become common in the transit eliminated altogether. erance during rush hour, will no longer industry, with complete network The Mayfield Road bus (line 9) enter Cleveland Heights. Weekday redesigns in Houston and Columbus exemplifies NEXT GEN’s positive frequency on the 9 will improve, with

11 among the most notable. and negative effects. For the first 41 weekday runs in each direction, Longtime NEXT GEN will bring some im- time in years, Heights cities will compared to the current 34. UH resident provements to transit service in the have direct service to downtown Similar changes will come to remembered Heights, but there will also be cuts. Cleveland—on lines 9 and 11—but Cedar Road. The current line 32 will Service frequency will be increased the routes to downtown will be be discontinued and replaced with on some lines, while service to some circuitous. Making a transfer will a rerouted line 11, and the number parts of Cleveland Heights will be often still be quicker. The current continued on page 9 15 Pride flag theft sparks Friends and CH Green Team springs to action worry, then joy in UH family honor 20 their graduat- 21 ing seniors Maeve Kozak What looked at first to be a possible hate crime in University Heights turned out to be nothing more than a home-improvement project. Last month, University Heights neighbors feared the worst when a wagers a gay-pride flag disappeared from a house on Edgerton Road. They were concerned the theft was a hate

n catali courtesy crime, and an attempt to intimidate CHGT’s founders (from left) Catalina Wagers, Natalie Elwell and Alex Sitarik at Forest Hill Park and silence the LGBTQIA+ com- doing a cleanup on Earth Day. munity. Catalina Wagers sustainable environmental practices. Charlie Olivio turned to a Face- The group’s three founders met book discussion board to ask neigh- Have you ever wondered if you are while attending a Recycling Ambas- bors if they had any video surveillance recycling correctly? Have you ever felt sador seminar offered by Cuyahoga of someone stealing the pride flag compelled to learn about, and promote, County Solid Waste District in January. belonging to him and his husband, more environmentally sustainable prac- “As we introduced ourselves to the Tommy Chesnes. Olivio noted that tices in the Heights, but do not know class, [I] learned that two other par- the neighborhood has many homes where to start? You are not alone. The ticipants were also Cleveland Heights that fly pride flags, and expressed newly formed Cleveland Heights Green residents. We decided to connect and concern that others may also have Team (CHGT) is a community volunteer explore ways to work with Heights fallen victim to a thief. organization focused on working with residents to help improve recycling Neighbors rallied to the couple’s residents and local advocacy groups to practices,” said Natalie Elwell. defense, offering encouragement and shared frustration. Elizabeth Wolf- FutureHeights FutureHeights Blvd. #105 Washington 2843 Heights, OH 44118 Cleveland identify opportunities and solutions An Ohio native, Elwell chose to intended to promote healthier and more continued on page 2 son, Melissa Connelly, and Joe Yosef Hochheiser went so far as to offer to purchase new pride flags. Olivio sug- Forest Hill Church celebrates Juneteenth gested that neighbors instead make Ajah Hales donations to the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland, or to Throughout the COVID-19 pan- The Trevor Project. demic, Forest Hill Church Pres- While neighbors struggled to byterian has continued to press solve the crime, the caper was no forward with services, programs and match for the the couple’s dog, Daisy. traditions. The church’s food pantry In an interview with Channel 19 has tripled its service to families in News, Olivio said, “Our dog started barking out the window and directly

need. Co-pastors John Lentz and all Veronica Goines have delivered at the tree [in our front yard]. So, I sermons digitally to the community a Mc C opened the blinds, looked out the window and saw this little red and

and beyond, via YouTube, for more A ireo nn than a year. Elégie members Caleb A. Wright, Michael Hives, Mist’a Craig and Brian Barron. orange stripe. “I said, ‘Oh my gosh, I think Now, the church’s Black History ent the church’s first public event Hill Church’s annual Juneteenth cel- Education Committee plans to pres- since the pandemic began. Forest continued on page 10 continued on page 10

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 1 www.heightsobserver.org Letters/Opinion

Letters Policy Officials must protect tives who, when changing the face Do we want someone progres- The Heights Observer welcomes letters to of Cleveland Heights, will retain sive and inclusive, experienced and the editor. They must be submitted electroni- CH’s green assets its historically significant beauty. cally, along with the writer’s name, phone competent, thoughtful and decisive, number and e-mail address, to: www.height- reasonable and collaborative, with sobserver.org/members. To the Editor: Steven Rowsey proven leadership qualities? Perhaps Cleveland Heights someone up to the job who can take A recent stroll by the Top of the a fresh look at City Hall? HEIGHTS OBSERVER Hill project led me to also check If we do, I encourage residents out what has been called the “col- CH resident urges The Heights Observer is a citizen-based news to get involved in this race to find source published monthly by FutureHeights, a legiate edition” of Top of the Hill, voters to stay in- out what all the candidates have to nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to on Euclid Heights Boulevard. This civic engagement and quality of life. formed; endorses say. Join online forums, and as soon as 2843 Washington Blvd. #105, is a student-housing project located they are available, attend candidates’ Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 directly across from Buckingham 216-320-1423 Danforth debates. If they do, I think they will Copyright 2021 FutureHeights, All rights reserved. condominiums, to be marketed to conclude, as I have, that Barbara Reproduction is forbidden without written permission. Case Western Reserve University Danforth is the best candidate to lead PUBLISHER students. To the Editor: Deanna Bremer Fisher Cleveland Heights into the future. [email protected] Both the planning commission and architectural board of review Editor-in-Chief After more than four years of wait- Joy Roller Kim Sergio Inglis seem to have mandated the pres- ing for political noise to subside, [email protected] Cleveland Heights ervation and incorporation of an three major political races come [Roller is a volunteer helping to elect E-NEWS Editor existing 5,200-square-foot house to our backyard. The 11th District Jessica Schantz Danforth.] [email protected] and adjoining carriage house into U.S. Congressional race to replace ADVERTISING the project, due to their historical Marcia Fudge, the Cleveland mayor’s Bob Rosenbaum significance. An excellent decision, race to replace 16-year incumbent Hart is the leader we 216-401-9342 [email protected] which stands in stark contrast to Frank Jackson and, most significant need for CH mayor advisory committee the elimination of virtually every to Cleveland Heights residents, the Deanna Bremer Fisher, David Budin, Greg Donley, mature tree—literally anything first directly elected mayor’s race in Judith Eugene, Jewel Moulthrop, Vince Reddy, Bob Rosenbaum, Jessica Schantz, Kim Sergio Inglis green—between Overlook Park the city’s 100-year history. To the Editor: Editors apartments and Margaret Wagner While federal-level officials can Jamison Babb, Maryann Barnes, Deanna Bremer House. It would seem green space impact issues that affect American I urge my fellow residents to join me Fisher, David Budin, Greg Donley, Jewel Moulthrop, Vince Reddy, Bob Rosenbaum, Jessica Schantz, Kim holds no historical significance. lives, city mayors can make executive in supporting Melody Hart for mayor Sergio Inglis. With upcoming development changes that affect residents’ daily because she has demonstrated the design and PRODUCTION projects at the Millikin wetlands, lives. For that reason, the Cleveland kind of leadership Cleveland Heights Temma Collins, Diane Roberto MetroHealth, and Cedar-Lee- Heights mayor’s race is a rare oppor- urgently needs, to address a range of DISTRIBUTION Meadowbrook, citizens must stand challenges and opportunities we face. Sally Kramer tunity for residents to have a say in guard. We need to elect representa- As a Cleveland Heights coun- The views and opinions expressed in this publiction the future of our city. do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions cil member, Melody has made it a of the Heights Observer, its publisher and staff, or green team continued from page 1 priority to really listen to residents’ of FutureHeights, its staff and board of directors. “The time is just right,” noted El- Seed funding for the Heights Observer gener- concerns; respond, and actually get ously provided by the Cyrus Eaton Foundation, the relocate back to Cleveland Heights last well. “As we celebrate our city’s 100th things done; and do that by helping Dominion Foundation, and the Katherine and Lee year after spending more than a decade birthday, we reflect on all the things that Chilcote Foundation. Powered by the 9th Estate. bring people together to solve prob- working in Washington, D.C., in areas have made Cleveland Heights a great lems we all care about. About the Observer related to the environment, equity and place to live, and we look forward to a Melody sat in on council meet- poverty. “We were looking for a local future where a culture of sustainability ings for four years before deciding The is not an ordinary Heights Observer group working on recycling awareness, is part of all of our residents’ lives.” to run. She was elected [to council] newspaper; it is a nonprofit publication waste prevention, green space cleanups, Poet Alice Walker said, “Look closely with the highest number of votes in for residents of Cleveland Heights and and policy advocacy,” explained Elwell, at the present you are constructing: it 2019, and has shown that she has a University Heights. “but we were not having any luck finding should look like the future you are dream- comprehensive understanding of the The has no writing staff; Observer a good fit for us. This is when we decided ing.” CHGT is optimistic that its efforts many important issues facing our it is written by you—the readers. to reach out to community leaders, local to reach out and work with Heights resi- community, and the nuts and bolts Individuals throughout the com- grassroots groups, and residents, who ex- dents will drive tangible positive results of how various aspects of our city munity decide what stories they want pressed the need for a green action hub, in the community for years to come. government work (or don’t work). to write, then submit them for publi- where residents are inspired to connect, To learn more, and get involved We need someone with this kind of cation. Anyone in University Heights learn, participate and act.” with CHGT, visit www.chgreenteam.org, experience for our first elected mayor. or Cleveland Heights is welcome to Alex Sitarik, another founder, also and follow the group on Instagram (@ Melody will be out and about contribute regularly, occasionally or returned to her native Northeast Ohio clevelandheightsgreenteam) and Face- throughout the community during even just once. last fall, after spending nine years working book (@chgreenteam). the upcoming election campaign, so Is there something you think in Detroit. She pointed out that CHGT’s please take the opportunity to meet should be covered in the Heights Observ- mission is to reduce and better manage Catalina Wagers is an eight-year resident of her and get to know her. I think you’ll ? If so, please write it on your own, or er local impact on our environment through Cleveland Heights’ Fairfax neighborhood. be impressed! Her schedule will be with friends, neighbors or colleagues. advocacy, stewardship and education. She is the third co-founder of Cleveland posted at https://melodyjoyhart.com/. Our volunteer editors will make sure “For 2021 we have established three Heights Green Team, and is actively involved it’s ready to publish and contact you goals,” said Sitarik. “We felt that we with several local organizations, supporting Rachel DeGolia with any questions. needed to have clear, achievable and causes and programs focused on the advance- Cleveland Heights If you’re writing a news article, measurable targets, that align with events ment of NEO through better access to educa- [DeGolia is a friend of Hart.] it should be clear and factual. If you impacting the community this fall, includ- tion, policy advocacy, and environmental want to express an opinion, submit it ing the mayoral race and the transition to protection. as a letter to the editor or an opinion automated waste collection.” piece. Either way, make sure it’s about Those goals are: something specific to our two cities. • Support the city of Cleveland Heights Heights Observer Election Policy • To make a submission of any kind, go as it transitions to automated refuse The Heights Observer will review their submission. These disclosures to www.heightsobserver.org and click on collection, with heavy emphasis on election-related submissions with a are intended to inform Heights Ob- “Member Center” at the left. educating the community on best re- goal of providing fair and equitable server review, and will be disclosed • For information about writing style, cycling practices. access for those seeking office. to readers when relevant. article length, etc., click on “Become • Engage with CH mayoral candidates Candidates for office are ex- The Heights Observer will deter- an Observer” at the left. For questions regarding their views on the intersec- pected to identify themselves as mine whether and when submissions that aren’t answered there, call the tion of economic development and such when submitting anything for will run in print, online, or both. FutureHeights office at 216-320-1423 sustainability, as part of their candidacy publication. Contributions by and about can- or e-mail [email protected]. platform, with the purpose of educating Candidates’ supporters and didates, and any election issue, are Articles to be considered for the and mobilizing voters. campaign representatives, and any- limited to a maximum of 400 words. July issue must be submitted by June • Reach out to residents and local sister one writing about any candidate The Heights Observer does not 14. We publish some articles online as organizations to understand their vi- or election issue, are expected to endorse candidates, nor does Future- they come in—and still consider them sions for healthier and more sustainable disclose any personal or professional Heights, the nonprofit community- for the next print issue. We also publish green practices, in order to establish a relationship they may have with any development corporation that pub- an e-newsletter each Tuesday. roadmap for action. candidate, or with the subject of lishes the Heights Observer.

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 2 www.heightsobserver.org Opinion Severance should be candidates’ top priority MAC’S Robert Brown

Severance Town Center is a shell of BACKS its former self. Its troubles are obvi- BOOKSTORE ous to anyone who visits the property MACSBACKS.COM 216-321-2665 1820 COVENTRY RD. CLV HTS AUTHOR TALKS, and sees the vacant storefronts, the WRITING WORKSHOPS, closed Regal Cinema and I-Hop, the LECTURES, BOOK CLUBS, FREE COMMU- massive empty building that once NITY MEETING SPACE, LOCAL AUTHORS, The Most housed a Walmart, and expanses of POETRY READINGS, SPECIAL EVENTS, Precious Thing in asphalt that were once filled with the GREETING CARDS, n B row obert R JOURNALS, SPECIAL the Universe cars of shoppers. Large expanses of asphalt paving at Severance Town Center, once filled with the cars of shoppers, ORDERS, AND OVER are now mostly empty. 35,000 NEW AND USED A new book by The question now facing Cleve- BOOKS!  Tricia Springstubb land Heights is this: How can Sever- connected by a corridor filled with what is called an outdoor “power is out now! ance Town Center be redeveloped so smaller stores. center,” anchored by a Home Depot that it again becomes a productive as- It was a new shopping experience and a Walmart, along with a Marshalls set for Cleveland Heights—providing for Clevelanders, drawing customers and a Borders bookstore. [Of those, needed services and generating tax to Cleveland Heights from through- Home Depot and Marshalls remain.] TRADE IN YOUR BOOKS dollars to help relieve the tax burden out the region during the 1960s and Decline and foreclosure: on residents? ’70s. Despite the updates, Severance con- As Cleveland Heights prepares At that time, the region’s freeway tinued to decline and, in December to elect its first mayor, it is my hope network was not fully in place, so be- 2014, went into mortgage foreclosure, that its citizens will demand that all ing located on a major road like May- with management turned over to a candidates for mayor, and for city field was enough to make Severance a court-appointed receiver. council, address this issue. competitive regional destination for While Severance was in receiver- A new idea–an enclosed shop- shopping. ship, awaiting auction, FutureHeights ping mall: Decades after most of Expansion and “un-malling”: hosted a community meeting on Oct. Cleveland Heights had been nearly ful- As the region’s freeway network grew 21, 2015, attended by nearly 200 peo- ly developed as a first-ring Cleveland with the opening of I-271, I-480 and ple, to discuss options for its future. suburb, a large site remained available US 422, Severance’s location became Ideas generated at the meeting for development. It was the estate of less competitive; shoppers and busi- included everything from senior John L. Severance and his family, one nesses were drawn to newer centers housing and related health-care facili- of the wealthiest and most influential closer to freeway interchanges. ties to light industrial “maker” spaces, families in Cleveland’s history. Severance’s owners reacted by and even a Chautauqua-like cultural In 1963, Severance Town Center adding a Gold Circle discount depart- and educational center. opened on the grounds of the former ment store in 1981, and a large food Hope was expressed at the meet- estate as the first enclosed shop- court in 1986. These changes were not ing that city government would be ping mall in Ohio, with multi-story enough to save the interior mall, most proactive in reaching out to find a department stores—Higbee’s and of which was demolished by 1998. new owner who would meet the com- Halle’s—anchoring each end of it, Severance then transformed into continued on page 19

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Heights Observer June 1, 2021 3 www.heightsobserver.org Opinion What leadership means to me Melody Hart fiscal responsibility and housing issues. I developed and got legislation passed, A mayoral campaign is all about putting more teeth in foreclosure bond leadership, this time within the legislation, out-of-county register, and context of the Cleveland Heights vacant housing registry. I am well- community. Effective city leadership known to city staff and my council peers involves a three-legged stool, and our for my ability to listen, collaborate and city’s first elected mayor needs to compromise, especially on tough issues. have strengths in three areas—civic Managerial skills: I work along- engagement, experience in city gov- side my team. As mayor, I will get to ernment, and executive finance and know the strengths of our staff and Window Restoration managerial skills. maintain responsive communication MJM Civic engagement: My years of with our residents. I will work with Preserve the historic look of your home. involvement with Greater Cleveland the council collaboratively, in the same . sticky windows . cracked glass Congregations Cleveland Heights way I have worked with developers, . broken ropes . weather stripping Housing Committee includes direct residents, and many others to obtain engagement with the neighborhoods win-win solutions for our community. (216) 321-7729 • mjmwindowrestoration.com most affected by the housing crisis, My decision to run for mayor came and advocacy for housing equity after months of considering who else and reform. A longtime supporter might be able to provide all three “legs of Heights Friends of Immigrants, I of the stool” for our city’s future. When have sponsored a Haitian immigrant I didn’t see any other candidate who It’s nally patio who is now a working, productive was ready to create that collaborative member of our community. Serving vision, I made the decision to run. season again! as a board member and treasurer I am confident that, together, we for the past three years, I have been can set the stage for another hundred a member of Cleveland Heights years of success and progress—and I Democrats since 2005. I am also welcome the opportunity to talk with on the executive committee of the you directly about your vision for our Cuyahoga County Democratic Party. city’s first mayor. To view my calendar City government: When I was of events and sign up for an in-person elected to city council in November chat or phone call, visit melodyjoyhart. 2019, I received the highest number com. of votes of any candidate. Prior to being elected, I attended Council Cleveland Heights City Council Member Enjoy our fresh, locally sourced food and treats for dine-in, and patio dining. Committee of the Whole and Coun- Melody Joy Hart has been active in the com- Take-out, curbside pick-up and delivery through the Toast app. cil meetings weekly for over four munity and is running to become Cleveland Cleveland Hts: 2482 Fairmount • 216.231.8585 years, with a particular interest in Heights’ first directly elected mayor.

Moreland Hills: 34105 Chagrin • 216.672.3600 lunabakerycafe.com Requiem for city council and a form of government

Garry Kanter against that charter change; or Ya- sinow going door-to-door to defeat Cleveland Heights city coun- the amendment while prominently Your plumber, your neighbor cil has ceased to function in a wearing her city-logoed name tag. productive manner. Come Jan. 1, They saw nothing wrong with Serving the Herb’s Plumbing & Heating 2022, its duties will be drastically failing to disclose to their council Heights minimized by the change to a colleagues or the public their sub- since 1989 mayor-council form of govern- stantial donations and relationships ment. to the PAC—even as they were “City council” is both the discussing the ballot language of rules under which it operates, the elected mayor amendment, and and the people whose duty it is to the language of their own counter- • Experts in old carry out those rules. It’s hard to amendment. define the exact date, but some of Dunbar actually read a state- homes the people on the current council ment from their campaign PAC at stopped carrying out the rules in a council meeting, as she defended • Water tanks & good faith at least six years ago. their relationship with former coun- The hypocrisy and mendacity cil member Jimmy Hicks. heating systems of these council members, includ- Somehow, this year, some un- ing Ungar, Dunbar and Stein, is identified campaign transgressions undeniable. require “temporary” legislation, • Eco-friendly It continues to this day, as expiring Dec. 31. I’ve read the updates evidenced by the travesty that ordinance. It’s petty, second-grade- was the “Temporary Standing level stuff. And it includes no con- Rules” ordinance passed as a so- sequences for violations; hence it is • Fully trained, licensed, called “emergency” [the first week unenforceable. bonded & insured of May] and the so-called “first The “first reading” of the coun- reading” of the council vacancy cil vacancy amendment was equally appointment charter change pointless. They can’t vote to put the • Residential & commercial amendment (to put it on the charter change amendment on the November ballot), at the same ballot until the first week of July, as council meeting. per Ohio Revised Code. And the Ungar and Dunbar had no ballot language that was read was problem with their own cam- so bad it will be re-written before paign conduct in 2019, when they it’s voted on. worked actively to thwart the will The council is made up of just of the voters regarding the elect- seven people, and a couple of them 216-691-2300 ed mayor charter amendment via are, quite simply, out to lunch. So, a secret campaign PAC. They saw a guy like Ungar—a “very” accom- herbsplumbingandheating.com nothing wrong with then-council plished professional litigator—can member Yasinow soliciting the have an outsized negative influence. firefighters’ union’s endorsement continued on page 9

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 4 www.heightsobserver.org Opinion Basic services must remain mayor’s priority Alan Rapoport Aging, and our continuing efforts to Buckeye Medical Supply assure City Hall is open, accessible Ramps l Stair Lifts l Bath Safety Cleveland Heights soon will elect and accountable. l l a mayor for the first time since the Frosting on the cake makes our Lift Recliners Wheelchairs Scooters 1920s. As former CH City Council community special. But in the end, Hospital Beds l Incontinence l Walkers president with the official title of the cake is what good government is “Here to help since 1962” mayor, I worked closely with city all about. There is a traditional Cleve- 1495 Warrensville Center Rd. South Euclid, OH 44121 (216) 291 - 4000 managers. I understand the wide land Heights understanding: We pay scope of activities conducted by local high taxes, and we expect good, basic government. I know the important services in return. We should expect role a new mayor will play. An entirely our new mayor to abide by that un- PATIO NOW OPEN new system of government must be derstanding. reservations required created for our city without guid- The new mayor must have suf- 216-791-0918 ance from tradition or experience. At ficient experience, temperament, and stake is nothing less than the health, leadership ability to identify, hire and Tuesday-Thursday welfare and safety of all Cleveland supervise a city administrator to man- 4-9PM Heights residents. age day-to-day operations. Also, the Friday-Saturday Our community must choose new mayor must articulate a produc- 5-10PM wisely. It must elect the candidate to tive vision for Cleveland Heights, and lead a municipal corporation with a demonstrate an ability to work with $50-million budget, and hundreds of city council. employees. That choice should be In the end, it will be that mayor’s based on credentials. It should not most important responsibility to be based simply on the usual vague guarantee that public money is spent political statements about hopes and prudently. For this reason, voters dreams. deserve to know in advance of the Our new mayor primarily must election how each candidate plans pay attention to the basics. City to assure that excellent basic services resources supply us with police, remain a priority. fire, ambulance, refuse, snow- and I grew up in Cleveland Heights leaf-removal services. They main- and I still live here. I want our city tain streets, water and sewer lines, to succeed; with the right choice for public buildings, and many vehicles mayor, it can. and other equipment. I used to call this the “cake.” Other resources are Alan Rapoport, a longtime resident “frosting” on the cake—such as our of Cleveland Heights, served on CH fine recreation program, our excel- City Council (1980–87) and as mayor lent city parks, our caring Office on (1982–87). Former Cleveland mayor endorses Danforth

Jane Campbell city services, such as police, fire, and ambulance, must be maintained at As a former Ohio state represen- a high level. Can a directly elected tative (1985–1997) and Cuyahoga mayor solve all problems? Of course County commissioner (1997–2001) I not. But the right mayor certainly worked with a lot of mayors. Serving can move the city toward solutions. as mayor of Cleveland (2001–2005) As I told Barbara Danforth’s ome! was the highest honor and hardest supporters, it’s important for the elc and most important work of my life. mayor to have the mix of experience W Soon, Cleveland Heights will directly that Barbara has, to guide the city elect a mayor for the first time in through this transformational time. almost 100 years. I appreciate from Barbara worked in city government my own experience how difficult this as Cleveland’s chief prosecutor. She job will be. worked in county government as There’s no ducking responsibility the chief legal counsel for the De- when you’re the mayor. Cleveland partment of Children and Family rs are Heights has an almost $45-million Services. She handled personnel, r doo open! budget and nearly 400 employees. payroll, and complex financial chal- u O worship - Sundays The new mayor must inspire the lenges with her turnaround of the s for at 1 in u 0AM Jo it in person? . existing workforce to serve with YWCA [of Greater Cleveland], and make an’t fi rstbapt excellence, and bring in talented she served in the corporate sector, C live istcl atch eve leadership to manage the city. searching and vetting executive tal- W lan The buck always stops with the ent to fit large organizations. Finding d. or mayor. If garbage pickup is late, talent is a critical skill for an effective g or streets aren’t plowed on time, mayor. people expect a mayor to fix things. Cleveland Heights voters now Cleveland Food Bank If commercial districts start looking have the opportunity to hire the shabby, if the house on the corner is right talent to lead the city, Barbara Produce Giveaway overgrown with weeds, if the water Danforth. Cleveland Heights de- June 5, 10AM-12PM TFAP Guidelines and sewer lines break, if the Plain serves no less than the best to serve Apply Dealer calls and the television camera as the first mayor under the new truck is in the city hall parking lot, system. the mayor gets the call. Cleveland Heights is a wonder- Jane Campbell, former mayor of Cleve- ful place dedicated to creating an land, is president and CEO of the United intentionally diverse community. I States Capitol Historical Society in still have family and friends in the Washington, D.C. She also serves on the Heights, so I’m not a disinterested steering committee for the Women Mayors’ observer. But Cleveland Heights is Network, an international, nonpartisan First Baptist Church not without problems and challeng- peer network to support women who are OF GREATER CLEVELAND es—aging housing stock, commercial running governments at the urban level districts in need of improvement, and who are #LeadingDifferently. She 3630 Fairmount Blvd., Shaker Heights racial tension, to name a few. Basic is a friend of Barbara Danforth.

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 5 www.heightsobserver.org opinion

REPRINTED FROM FUNNY TIMES / P0 BOX 18530 / CLEVELAND HTS OH 44118 / FUNNYTIMES.COM / CARTOON BY KEN BROWN Heights pilgrims advocate for our community

gives all students an equal chance the common to excel, regardless of their needs good or the ability of their community to fund its public schools? School officials from across the state testified in support of the plan. Susie Kaeser Our district stood out, however, as the one community where 17 other On May 4, Elizabeth Kirby, CH- people added their voices to the UH schools superintendent, made superintendent’s. Voters and levy another pilgrimage to Columbus to workers, parents and grandparents, urge the Ohio Legislature to improve career educators, and school district the state’s investment in public edu- residents who have a stake in the suc- ©Ken Brown cation, and to directly fund vouchers cess of our public schools presented their case. Visit the Heights Coalition THE JOHNSTONS TAKE THEIR ANNUAL IMAGINARY VACATION and charter schools. The current funding of education choice has re- for Public Education website (http:// Provided by Funny Times, a Cleveland Heights-based business. sulted in deep cuts in programs and chuh.net/coalition/) to read their testi- personnel in the Heights schools, mony. a steep increase in local taxes, and They spoke for the people who plenty of tension and anger as state live in our community and are invested policy puts the future attractiveness in its long-term viability and success of our unique community in doubt. as a stable, vibrant and inclusive oasis. Heights Coalition for Public No one else brought that perspective, Education members Robin Koslen, the sense of urgency, and the set of Toni Thayer and Joan Spoerl, along values that people who are looking out with Jayne Geneva, a longtime for their community can articulate. AUTOMOTIVE SPECIALIST member of the district’s lay finance Each witness personalized the committee, also spoke before the need for better funding. They made Since 1982 Senate’s primary and secondary clear that paid lobbyists and think- Visit our website education committee, during hear- tank experts are not the only people ings on the state’s biennial budget. who should shape policy. They ef- Honesty, Value and to schedule your fectively challenged the prevailing service online The Legislature must approve an Communication operating budget by June 30, and narrative that public schools, which fixing school funding is a big-ticket serve 90 percent of Ohio students, item in the budget. have failed. They appealed to law- VOLVO • SUBARU • VW • AUDI • BMW • SAAB • PORSCHE Eighteen of the 136 people who makers to uphold the Constitution. submitted testimony in writing or Koslen and her two adult chil- 1815 S. Taylor Road, Cleveland Hts. • 216-371-5100 • swedishsolutions.com in person during the hearings were dren are graduates of the Heights from our school district. We are in schools. Her four grandchildren a crisis. It is no time to sit back. attend Canterbury Elementary We have an impressive track School. Devoted to her hometown, record of citizens speaking up and Koslen said, “I would feel terrible stepping up to create the community if I didn’t do everything I could to we want, instead of passively enduring get the legislation passed. I have the bad policy. That’s the reason I moved opportunity and the time; there is to Cleveland Heights 40 years ago. no excuse not to speak up.” There it was on full display again: the Spoerl had the luxury of partici- citizen voice! I could not be prouder. pating and felt compelled to use it. Each witness used her five minutes She wanted to participate in democ- to put a face on the issue and convince racy and hoped to “open [legislators’] Save in Bunches on lawmakers to support a strong system hearts and minds so they would listen of public education. They referenced to another point of view.” the myriad ways in which existing It remains to be seen if the policy is undermining education qual- legislature got our message. ity, devaluing children and educators, Perennials and damaging the communities served Susie Kaeser is a 40-year resident of by the Heights schools. Cleveland Heights and the former The funding plan is popular director of Reaching Heights. She is with Ohio school districts. Who active in the Heights Coalition for can argue with a plan that serves Public Education and the League of all children and school districts and Women Voters.

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Heights Observer June 1, 2021 6 www.heightsobserver.org opinion

We’re already living in a 15-minute city dining room now open cal Center and its 24-hour emergency and Noble 15-minute cities closer to- room came to Severance a few years ago, gether, providing easier access to food, Heights of greatly improving health-care access health care, and other amenities. Democracy there. Severance and Noble both lack a Modena points out, “The 15-min- sufficient range of social hubs. Noble ute city is not a silver bullet. Today residents have tried for years to attract Deborah Van Kleef and Carla Rautenberg our neighborhoods are segregated by a coffee shop. Cleveland Heights-based money—rich, poor, middle class, work- Phoenix Coffee has become a worker Recently we came across a hot new ers, bars, offices. . . . But what we must co-op under the Evergreen Coopera- yummy concept in city planning: the 15-minute do is use 15-minute cities to focus on tives umbrella. Could it be enticed to fun city. As longtime Cleveland Heights the common good. With enough fund- expand into Noble? Heights Libraries’ voted safest joint in town residents we said, “Wait . . . this de- ing and support, deployed in the right purchase of the church property next scribes where we’ve lived for years!” way, we can guarantee they are for the door to its Noble branch is bound to “inda heights” Residents of a 15-minute city can people.” increase foot and bicycle traffic in that work, shop, learn and play within a Clearly, Severance and the Noble neighborhood. Wouldn’t it be great to 2196 lee road 15-minute walk or bike ride from their corridor need the most support to check out a book and peruse it over cleveland heights homes, with good transit options for realize their 15-minute potential. Since a cup of Joe on the patio of a local, 216.932.9000 mojocle.com further destinations. the two areas overlap, positive improve- worker-owned cafe? With the rapid expansion of work- ments in one will enhance quality of life Adding community transit and a from-home during the COVID-19 in the other, and, of course, boost the cafe would amplify two great efforts pandemic, this concept gained inter- city as a whole. already underway in Noble: increased Free books mailed national currency. Carlos Modena, Cleveland Heights is a great com- green space in the Delmore Community a professor at the Université Paris 1 munity for working from home, as we Orchard, and the Roanoke and Noble to your young child! Panthéon-Sorbonne, championed the know from experience. But many es- mini-park; and the pilot Community idea, and sold it to Paris Mayor Anne sential jobs cannot be done from home, Learning Center at Noble Elementary Hidalgo. Hidalgo made it the center- and we could certainly use more decent- School, which will offer after-school, piece of her 2020 campaign, winning paying employment for local residents. weekend and summer programs for all re-election to a second term. With all the hand-wringing about Sever- ages beginning this fall. Cleveland Heights is already a ance over the years, we cannot recall any We see synergy starting to work complex of overlapping 15-minute discussion of redevelopment specifically its magic in the Noble 15-minute city. cities. Cedar Fairmount, Coventry Vil- focused on creating jobs that pay a living Let’s encourage the mayor and council lage, Cedar Lee, Noble and Severance wage; for example, light manufacturing we elect in November to rally our city’s each provide some access to groceries, of some kind. economic development staff and new If your child is green space, and social hubs, such as Save a Lot provides some groceries planning director to realize the poten- 4 years old or younger restaurants, coffee shops and bars. in the northernmost part of town, but tial of Noble and Severance. Three strategically located branches it is not a full-service supermarket. A and lives in Cuyahoga County of Heights Libraries supply residents service like the CircleLink shuttle, which Deborah Van Kleef and Carla Rautenberg Please register online at: with brain food, entertainment, edu- provides free transport from various stops are longtime residents of Cleveland Heights. cational programs and community in University Circle to Coventry Road, Contact them at heightsdemocracy@gmail. Imagina5onLibrary.com meeting spaces. MetroHealth Medi- could do wonders to draw the Severance com. You’ll miss ‘em when they’re gone

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Heights Observer June 1, 2021 7 www.heightsobserver.org Cleveland Heights News GardenWalk CH is July 17 and 18 Paula Darte

As a Cleveland Heights newcomer, Mary Hosier wandered into one of the ϯϰϱϭ&ĂŝƌŵŽƵŶƚůǀĚ͘ůĞǀĞůĂŶĚ,ĞŝŐŚƚƐ͕K,ϰϰϭϭϴϮϭϲ ͲϯϬϯͲϵϴϲϮ  ǁǁǁ͘ĞĂƐƚǁŽŽĚĨƵƌŶŝƚƵƌĞ͘ĐŽŵĨĂĐĞŬ͘ĐŽŵͬĂƐƚǁŽŽĚ&ƵƌŶŝƚƵƌĞ Heights’ favorite bookshops, said she needed to make new friends, and asked

It’s Your Home. about local gardeners. The recommen- arte  dation was to go find Jan Kious. This aula D P   ĞƐŝŐŶ/ƚ͘ launched a decade-long friendship, and Gardens large and small will be featured on Hosier joined the planning committee GardenWalk Cleveland Heights’ self-guided of GardenWalk Cleveland and, more re- tour. cently, GardenWalk Cleveland Heights, exchange about making gardens grow. founded by Kious. “It is also a nudge to get your gar- This year’s Cleveland Heights event dens in shape,” commented Kious, “so (https://gardenwalkclevelandheights.com) you can share in visits and banter, which will be held on Saturday, July 17, and we all so greatly need.” Sunday, July 18, noon to 5 p.m. each day. The volunteers organizing Garden- GardenWalk Cleveland (https:// Walk Cleveland Heights invite garden- gardenwalkcleveland.org), which features ers of all sorts to show their gardens, nine Cleveland neighborhoods, will be whether they are beginners, seasoned held one week earlier, on Saturday, July horticulturalists, have postage stamp- 10, and Sunday, July 11, from 10 a.m. to sized plots, or maintain secret gardens 5 p.m. each day. behind some of the Heights’ mansions. Both events are free, self-guided If you would like to add your garden tours. to the Cleveland Heights event, June 7 is tĞĂůƐŽďƵŝůĚĐƵƐƚŽŵǁĂůůƵŶŝƚƐΘŬŝƚĐŚĞŶĐĂďŝŶĞƚƐ͘ “This is such a great way to get to the deadline for letting the volunteer or- know your neighbors,” said Hosier. “We ganizers know. Submit a request through need ways to connect and calm the stress the website https://gardenwalkcleveland- we’ve all been through lately.” heights.com, or by sending an e-mail to tĞĂůƐŽďƵŝůĚĐƵƐƚŽŵǁĂůůƵŶŝƚƐΘŬŝƚĐŚĞŶĐĂďŝŶĞƚƐ GardenWalk Cleveland Heights  [email protected]. comprises individual and community A list of participating gardens will gardens, and offers an opportunity to be included in the July edition of the meet neighbors, explore unfamiliar cor- Heights Observer, and featured on Gard- In Our ners of Cleveland Heights, and gather enWalk Cleveland Heights’ website. gardening advice and encouragement. Loft Participating gardeners open their Paula Darte recently moved to Cleveland yards to share their living works of art, Heights and inherited a pollinator garden and visitors offer admiration and friendly that will be part of the tour. Boulevard Neighbors recaps recent projects

Rachel DeGolia can donate non-perishable food items for use by those in need. Boulevard Neighbors is a growing A ribbon-cutting ceremony was network of residents who live in held in May, followed by a walk to the neighborhood near Boulevard Compton Road to discuss the po- Elementary School, bounded by tential Compton Greenway with Cumberland, Taylor, Mayfield and Cleveland Heights City Planning Berkeley roads. Among the proj- Director Eric Zamft. ects the group has undertaken this • Continuing discussions with the spring are: city of Cleveland Heights, begun • Identifying a need for more trees in 2019, to explore possibilities in the neighborhood. Members for traffic-calming design, pocket are reaching out to neighbors parks, and safer bicycling paths and collaborating with Heights on Compton Road and Euclid Tree People to plant trees in Heights Boulevard. The Comp- front yards, for free. For more ton Greenway Study, viewable information, send an e-mail to online at www.clevelandheights. [email protected]. com/1171/Compton-Road-Green- • Building and installing a Little way-Study, outlines some of these Free Pantry in front of Beth ideas. El – The Heights Synagogue, on • In April, 15–20 Boulevard Neigh- Desota Avenue, where neighbors continued on page 12

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Heights Observer June 1, 2021 8 www.heightsobserver.org Cleveland Heights News Cleveland Heights City Council Cleveland Heights Community Development meeting highlights Block Grant applications open June 3 Jessica Schantz APRIL 19, 2021 Council members present were Jason Stein (president), Kahlil Seren (vice president), a proposed charter amendment [for filling The city of Cleveland Heights en- Craig Cobb, Mary Dunbar, Melody Joy Hart, council vacancies], and the establishment courages eligible residents and or- of council standing rules—claiming that the Davida Russell, and Michael N. Ungar. Also ganizations to apply for Community present were City Manager Susanna Nier- charter amendment wording was unclear Development Block Grant (CDBG) mann O’Neil, Clerk of Council and Finance and the standing rules were a reaction [by] Director Amy Himmelein, and Law Director one council member. A second resident also funding, available annually. This William Hanna. disagreed with the wording of the proposed federal program, run by the Depart- charter amendment, and maintained that the Chief of Police report ment of Housing and Urban Devel- amendment should include a 60-day limit for Police Chief Annette Mecklenburg reviewed opment, allocates money to eligible 216-291-4845. [council’s] consideration of an appointment the April 13 town hall forum on recruitment and then, if unfilled, a decision by the mayor municipalities to be used in the areas The city of Cleveland Heights and selection of officers, and vehicle pursuits, or council president. of economic development, housing established its Citizens Advisory attended by 56 community members. Another rehabilitation, and programming that Committee (CAC) shortly after forum, on April 27, will cover bias-based City manager’s report policing and use of force. The forums have The city manager said that she and staff will specifically serves low- to moderate- the formation of CDBG in 1974, to been announced on the city’s website, on the address the garage signage and dog park income persons and neighborhoods. encourage citizen participation in police department’s Facebook page, and on problems noted by the Buckingham residents. In Cleveland Heights, CDBG the oversight of the program and its flyers posted at local businesses. Also, staff will work on signage for the Ce- funding has historically supported distributions. The newest members dar Hill traffic pattern change [due to TOH Cedar/Lee/Meadowbrook organizations that serve the aging, construction], to avoid accidents. of CAC, for the 2021 calendar year, Economic Development Director Tim Boland the disabled, and at-risk youth; wrap- are Lee Barbee, Susan Efroymson, Legislation recommended, and council approved, a around services; housing rehabilita- Diane Hallum, Allison Hite, Marc proposal from Flaherty & Collins/City Archi- An ordinance proposing a charter amend- tion programming and assistance; tecture for the Cedar/Lee/Meadowbrook ment for filling a vacant council seat had a Lefkowitz, Josie Moore, Al Snod- redevelopment project. The proposal is a first reading. and business development in eligible grass, Patti Substelny and Catalina $50-million investment in the entire site. Council approved the Temporary districts. Wagers. Standing Rules for Council ordinance, with Council approvals The application period for 2022 Part of CAC’s charge is to work Kahlil Seren voting no. He said the rules • First extension of the development services CDBG funding will open on June 3 toward demographic and geograph- should not be adopted as written and agreement and project approval with Fu- needed further discussion. and close on July 15. For more infor- ic community representation on the tureHeights. The current agreement has Council amended the budget for the mation about the program, and to committee. To learn more about expired; this one will be for two years and fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2021. The clerk access the online application, visit the CAC, including membership will not exceed $140,000. of council/finance director reported that • A limit of 15 percent of the purchase price www.clevelandheights.com/CDBG. information, visit www.cleveland- expenses were up for the TOH bond, but on the commission third parties can charge Special assistance is available for heights.com/396/Citizens-Advisory- revenues have increased as well. Other restaurants to deliver orders during dine-in applicants, including translation ser- expenses increased due to a rise in indigent Committee. restrictions. Kahlil Seren reported that a burials, and the addition of an intern to help vices. Contact Brian Iorio, Cleveland local restaurant owner had complained the municipal court digitize records. Heights’ city planner and CDBG pro- Jessica Schantz is the e-news manager about thin profit margins being cut by up gram manager, to request assistance to 30 percent by delivery charges. Council member comments at the Heights Observer and a longtime • An amendment to the Fair Practices code Referring to the standing rules legislation and or learn more about eligibility. He can resident of Cleveland Heights. She is the to include source of income as a prohibited the rule requiring the support of two council be reached at [email protected], or current chair of the CAC. members for the introduction of proposed discriminatory rationale in housing rental. rta continued from page 1 legislation, Kahlil Seren said before the Council member comments vote that if the standing rules passed, he of weekday westbound runs will in- As noted above, the East 185th- Davida Russell noted that Sen. Sherrod Brown would support any other council member’s is sending a liaison to the Racial Justice Task crease from 30 to 39. As with line 9, Taylor (37) line, which had already seen legislation. Force, the first known senate/city liaison. The service to the center of the Cleveland reduced service in Cleveland Heights, michael Ungar said that several council task force’s work could help the senator’s staff Clinic campus will be discontinued, will cease serving the city altogether. members had asked him to write up the Tem- craft national legislation. porary Standing Rules for Council, and that with the 11 serving the Clinic from The rerouted 7 line will replace a small LWV Observer: Blanche Valancy. the next council [to be elected November stops along East 105th Street and part of the lost 37 service. 2021] should decide whether these rules Quincy Avenue. The trip to Tower Changes will be less dramatic to MAY 3, 2021 are acceptable. City from Cedar and Lee roads will other bus lines. The only 24-hour ser- All council members were present, as were melody Hart commented that she has take a lengthy 41 minutes. vice to the area, the Warrensville (41) the city manager, clerk of council, and law always collaborated with other advisers, director. staff, and council members when introducing The most drastic change will line, will be relatively unchanged, with be the revisions to what is now the some added service on Sundays. Week- Public comments new legislation. Comments, submitted by e-mail, included a Davida Russell said she appreciated Monticello-Euclid Heights (7) line. day frequency on the Lakeview-Lee request for a public park at Lee Road and the guidelines within the standing rules as The 7 now comes down Monticello (40) line will be significantly improved, Meadowbrook Boulevard; one objection introduced by Ungar. Boulevard to Mayfield Road and con- and the East 200th-Green (34) bus, to open fishing at Lower Shaker Lake; a LWV Observers: Gail Larson and Blanche nects to the center of the Cleveland which runs along the eastern border of petition signed by 342 residents supporting Valancy. Clinic campus (East 93rd and Euclid) University Heights, will continue as a fishing; and a request for speed bumps and Meeting packets, legislation, and other traffic detectors to counter discriminatory by way of Coventry Road and Euclid limited-service, weekday-only line, but information can be found at www.cleve- policing practices. One resident, noting that Heights Boulevard. Beginning June will be extended to Tri-C East from its landheights.com/1142/2021-Agendas- bulk trash pickup would take place only one 13, the 7 will not come west of Taylor current terminus at Green Road. and-Minutes. week per month, asked if dumpsters would Videos of council meetings can be Road. Westbound 7 buses will turn For more information on NEXT be available. viewed on the “City of Cleveland Heights, north on Taylor and end their runs at GEN, visit www.riderta.com/nextgen. Five residents of Buckingham Condo- OH” YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/ the Stokes-Windermere Red Line sta- miniums, located next to the Top of the Hill user/ClevelandHeightsOH. (TOH) project under construction, asked for tion in East Cleveland. There will no Vince Reddy works at LAND studio signage, such as “permit parking only,” in the Expanded reports are longer be any RTA service on Coven- and has lived in Cleveland Heights for parking garage where the city promised them try Road or Euclid Heights Boulevard. 24 years. preferential parking. available online at A resident questioned the use of an www.heightsobserver.org. do you like the emergency vote for two pieces of legislation— Requiem continued from page 4 He was a force behind the “se- [from] his cherished CRC. Heights Observer? cret retreat” council held regarding This city council is already a Mayor Cheryl Stephens a few years lame duck. Thankfully, it’s starting Your donation helps to keep it coming back. He was a force behind that to look like Ungar and Stein won’t rigged charter review commis- run for reelection in November. It sion (CRC). would be nice if they declared their The Observer is published as a non-profit project. aTe We just learned that unless his intentions publicly. on preferred candidate would be ap- Albert Einstein is said to have All proceeds are returned to the community d through programming by FutureHeights. o pointed, no one would be appoint- said something about insanity and T ed to replace Yasinow. And he said expecting different results for no n Your donation is tax-deductible and helps sustain he would only vote for the council reason. Well, until January anyway, a the Observer and other important projects. c

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Heights Observer June 1, 2021 9 www.heightsobserver.org University Heights News

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Need affordable Medicare that’s in step with your life? courtesy u n i v ersity city heights courtesy hall Choosing the right Medicare coverage can A screen shot from Channel 19 News’ coverage of the flag bandit. be confusing. Kathy Carvin that’s our pride flag,’ and I looked Olivio and Chesnes “love calling Licensed Insurance Agent I can help you find a plan and saw a big, fat raccoon walking up University Heights home,” and were that’s right for YOU the limb.” happy to find out that the thief was This is an advertisement. and YOUR BUDGET. Turns out, the flag was taken by not someone with malicious intent. a raccoon for a nest that, apparently, For the third year in a row, a Not all agents are licensed needed a splash of color. pride flag will be displayed in front of to sell all products. Service University Heights residents cel- University Heights City Hall for the ebrated the happy end to the story on entire month of June, as part of the and product availability social media. Leilani Hall surmised city’s pride-month celebration. And varies by state. Call today for personalized service! that the “racoon wanted to show his this year, at the base of the flagpole, a 46275-HM-0920 pride,” while Chris Janata stated he toy raccoon will be displayed in honor (216) 375-5902 was “so happy the result is a critter, of the Great Edgerton Road Caper of Kathy Carvin not hate.” 2021. Licensed Insurance Agent Maeve Kozak is a summer intern with This is an advertisement. Not all agents are licensed to sell all products. Service and the city of University Heights. product availability varies by state.

Safe. Happy. Not lonely anymore. That’s juneteenth continued from page 1 how Lillian Gattozzi describes her new life. ebration has been a widely attended event for the past five years, though it was held digitally in 2020. “ I’m so much happier since I moved here. On Saturday, June 19, at 4 p.m., the church will present a commu- I can’t imagine a better place.” nity meal, and an outdoor concert A former nurse that radiates kindness, featuring Elégie will begin at 4:30 p.m. Community members are en- Lillian grew up in Bainbridge and made couraged to bring lawn chairs and the move to South Franklin Circle in 2019. blankets, to sit on the front lawn of the church. Relishing the bustling activities in her new All COVID-19 protocols will community, Lillian quickly joined in for be observed, and masks will be required for all attendees. social gatherings, exercise programs, In case of inclement weather, and card groups with fellow residents. the food service still will take place at the church at 4 p.m.; the “We go for walks, we talk, and I’m able to concert, however, will be presented digitally at 6:30 p.m., on Forest Hill meet lovely people. The warm, caring staff Church’s Facebook and Youtube pages. is just icing on the cake. I can’t begin to say This will be Elégie’s first pub- how comforting that is,” says Lillian. lic concert since 2019. The group comprises four vocalists, Brian Bar- Read the full story at ron, Mist’a Craig, Michael Hives judsonsmartliving.org/blog and Caleb A. Wright, all graduates of Heights High, where they were members of the original Heights High Barbershoppers. They will be joined by pianist Phillip K. Jones II, another Heights High graduate, and other musicians. For more information on the Juneteenth celebration or Forest Hill Church Presbyterian, contact the church office at 216-321-2660, or visit www.fhcpresb.org. For more information on Elégie, like and Lillian Gattozzi follow the group on Facebook and Bringing Community to Life Instagram.

Judson Park Cleveland Heights | Judson Manor University Circle | South Franklin Circle Chagrin Falls Ajah Hales, a Cleveland Heights resi- dent, is a poet, activist and social justice judsonsmartliving.org | 216.350.0326 advocate. She is a member of the Forest Hill Church Black History Education Committee, and has been a member of the church since 2005.

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 10 www.heightsobserver.org UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS NEWS UH community remembers Pete Bernardo one of Santa’s helpers, dressing up as Mike Cook Santa Claus for JCU’s annual Break- fast with Santa event for more than For decades, Pete Bernardo dedi- 20 years. cated his life to his country, his Bernardo also served on Uni- community, and to John Carroll versity Heights City Council, 2007- University (JCU). Bernardo died 2009. He helped organize the on May 14, at the age of 75. He is University Heights Memorial Day survived by his wife, JoAnne, and Parade and ceremony for 30-plus three sons. years. “To describe the loss of Pete “My heart hurts over this. I first Bernardo and what he meant to this met Pete in 1991 when I transferred community is almost beyond words,” to Carroll, and loved him immedi- University Heights Mayor Michael ately,” said Rachel Mullen, executive Dylan Brennan said. “He was a model assistant and special projects coordi- of service and dedication to our com- nator for University Heights. “I was munity and to our country. All of us thrilled to work with him again on

who worked with him are honored to UNIVERSITY CITY HEIGHTS COURTESY HALL the 2019 parade. We all experienced have done so.” The late Pete Bernardo, pictured at University Heights’ Memorial Day Ceremony in 2019. his kind heart and generous spirit A decorated Vietnam War vet- firsthand.” eran, Bernardo was the recipient of assurance, and safety plans for a served in a variety of roles at JCU, Brennan said planning for the the Distinguished Service Cross and $164-million research-and-devel- including director of alumni rela- city’s Memorial Day Ceremony and three Purple Hearts for his heroic ef- opment test program designed to tions (1988–1997), director of ad- the parade (usually held on Memo- forts in the line of duty for the U.S. produce and test the free world’s vancement services (1998–2000), rial Day, but rescheduled this year Army. only non-nuclear antiballistic mis- and director of planned giving (2001­­ for July 4) will be emotional. “This Bernardo helped plan, coor- sile system. –2007). Most recently, Bernardo will be the first time in over 30 dinate, and negotiate the con- Following a distinguished 20- was senior director of philanthropic years we are doing these commu- figuration management, product year military career, Bernardo relations. nity events without him,” Brennan Upon receiving JCU’s 2016 said. “He will be in our hearts and Alumni Medal, Bernardo explained minds, never more so than this year Friends of The Walt restore native plants his dedication to service. “There as we do these things in memory of are just some things that have to be Pete.” done,” he said, “and someone needs [Portions of this article were to do it.” adapted, with permission, from a Bernardo was active in many JCU press release.] activities at JCU and in Greater Cleveland. He staffed the chain crew Mike Cook is the communications and at JCU football games, and mentored civic engagement coordinator for Univer- ROTC cadets on campus. He was sity Heights. CAIN PARK 2021 SEASON Welcome Back! Cain Park Arts Festival 7/9-11 Apollo’s Fire 7/13 COURTESY UNIVERSITY CITY HEIGHTS COURTESY HALL Tom Chapin and the Chapin Sisters The reigning University Heights Volunteers of the Year were back at it on 7/15 May 15 and 16. Over the weekend, they planted and watered 404 plants, Mary Bridget Davies 7/16 bringing 23 Ohio native plant species back to Walter Stinson Community GroundWorks Dancetheater 7/23-24 Park. As a group, they volunteered for a total of 46 hours on May 15, and Anne E. DeChant 7/29 an additional 23 hours on May 16. Amythyst Kiah 8/3 Dancing Wheels 8/6 Cabarets 8/7, 21, 28 Paula Cole 8/8 Are you thinking about Miko Marks 8/12 replacing your old windows? Naturally 7 8/14 Kiefer Sutherland 8/27 Are they drafty, Keeping your old Indigo Girls 9/9 windows is sustainable, Tri-C Jazz Fest 9/11-12 painted shut, energy efficient, cost and/or otherwise effective, functional, inoperable? and maintains the Don’t replace them! character of your beautiful Restore them! historic home. Visit www.cainpark.com for a complete schedule We offer affordable solutions for your old Fiat Lux In-Person Residents Day 6/26, 9-5 window needs,including weatherstripping, Restoration 216-371-3000 mechanical tune-ups, is here to help On Sale At Ticketmaster repairs, and full restoration. Cain Park is produced by the City of Cleveland Heights E-mail us at with your old [email protected], or call us at (440) 384-0100 windows! www.cainpark.com

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 11 www.heightsobserver.org OPINION CH residents deserve a public hearing on Meadowbrook-Lee site

Fran Mentch Many people agree—more than do so. hearing, or, better yet, call them. 668 have signed our Change.org Citizen participation in council Their numbers (except one) are Cleveland Heights citizens have not online petition—and have joined meetings has been severely weakened on the city’s website. Just google been asked what they think about with us to help make this happen. because the meetings are virtual— Cleveland Heights City Council, the city’s (sixth) attempt to develop Don’t let people tell you a park citizens can’t go to the meeting and then click on their photos to find [the site at] Meadowbrook Boulevard won’t bring in money. If they say bring up the issue ourselves. We have their phone numbers. and Lee Road. this, explain that the Coventry submitted written comments that are For more information, visit our My friends and I think that merchants are on record saying that read at the meetings, but they have website, www.cedarleepark.com, or putting in an urban activity park (a Coventry P.E.A.C.E. Park brings been ignored. our Facebook page. If you agree that space with a stage; an area to hold them business. No matter how you feel about the Meadowbrook-Lee space should farmers markets, or food trucks; a We have repeatedly asked city what should be done with that city become Cedar Lee Park, please water feature, etc.) is a good idea for council [members] to put a discussion land—build apartments or a park— e-mail us [email protected] the 1.07-acre space at Meadowbrook of a park at Meadowbrook-Lee on the more important issue is: Shouldn’t to request a yard sign, or leaflets to and Lee. their agenda. They have refused to citizens have an opportunity to pass out to your neighbors. participate in the discussion about this space? Fran Mentch was a leader of Citizens for It’s time for fair school funding We think citizens deserve a Oakwood, the group that tried to stop public hearing about Meadowbrook- the development of the former Oakwood Robin Koslen We are tired of the cap on Lee; not a public meeting, but a Country Club. She is a doctoral candidate state funding, which results in new formal public hearing. in the Cleveland State University Levin The following is a shortened version of students not generating new dollars. If you agree, please e-mail city College of Urban Affairs, the chair of the the testimony I gave to the Ohio State We are tired of EdChoice dollars council (clevelandheightscouncil@ Northeast Ohio Sierra Club Executive Senate’s K–12 Education Committee coming from district funds instead of clvhts.com) and ask for a public Committee, and a community activist. on May 5, in support of HB-1: directly from the state (and with no Like you, I think my community cap). We are tired of being considered is pretty amazing. We in the Heights wealthy, when anyone taking a look pride ourselves on our racial, economic at the actual income of our families The nobility of Noble Neighbors and religious diversity. We believe that would never make that assessment. diversity is our strength. Yet, when We are tired of having to explain Diane Hallum believed we were members of a local you [talk to] someone who has looked to citizens every three years that citizens group focused on improving for a home here, the most common our state designed a system in which I love the gardeners market sponsored our area. It turns out we aren’t [comment] is, “I love Cleveland the additional funds needed just by Noble Neighbors at the Roanoke even considered “members” by our Heights and University Heights, but to keep up with inflation are the park. I have found new homes there “leaders.” We’re just on an e-mail list the taxes are so high.” Residents agree, responsibility of homeowners, yet for my crowded native perennials. like any other schmuck! and some may think it is because their again. But mostly, we are tired of The park that finally occupies Under the watchful eyes of city tax dollars aren’t used well. the inadequate contribution that the that space, after years of begging the leaders, including FutureHeights, But that is not the case. In so state of Ohio has made to the 90% of city to allow citizens to create it, is which acts as the fiscal agent for many ways, we have fallen into a children who attend public schools in wonderful and charming, all initiated Noble Neighbors, somehow a Noble- black hole with regard to the funding the state. by the early work of Noble Neighbors’ area citizens group transmogrified of our schools. The Fair School Funding Plan Beautification Committee. into an e-mail list, and “members” Our public school population is addresses many of the complex Noble Neighbors’ May event is were stripped of having any rights a diverse group. All of the children issues around school funding. It also tremendous, but I do wonder over its functions or operations. in our public schools qualify for free takes into account both property who actually plans it, since members When city leaders claim Noble lunch because so many of our kids are values and income of the residents never discuss [the plans]. Neighbors was included in some eligible. Ten percent of the children of a community. It funds EdChoice I learned long ago as a member decision, or approved something, attending Noble Elementary School vouchers at the state level instead of Noble Neighbors (we first came what does that actually mean? An come from refugee families from of saddling homeowners with bills together in winter 2013, because of e-mail list said this was okay? Bhutan. Many of our kids are in that leave some communities writing crime and related housing issues) Just how did it indicate its foster care, and some of our kids live checks to the state, and costing that beautification and promoting approval, I wonder. in huge mansions in families that my district over $9 million this our area had become the group’s Joking aside, this is how systemic could have chosen any private school school year. It addresses the true sole purpose. Any confusion about racism plays out: a group of frustrated, around, but chose public because cost of education and provides a this was made quite clear at one of fed-up and angry citizens in a long- it reflects their values. A more framework to share the cost between the group’s monthly meetings, that I abused and -neglected part of the homogeneous group of kids might be the community and the state. It pays had attended religiously. In mid-2015, city is co-opted by city leaders and its cheaper to educate, but then it would for state mandates, such as busing. one woman became frustrated by the agents to create a marketing e-mail not be Cleveland Heights-University This is a plan that has been in the leader’s refusal to allow attendees to list that exists to tell everyone that Heights. works for three years. It has been discuss vacant-housing issues. The whatever the city or its agents decide, We have chosen to tax ourselves researched and studied extensively. leader and her allies told her angrily it’s great! to the hilt because of the manner in It needs to be passed—now. that she was not wanted, and she The takeaway: “Noble” here which Ohio funds its public schools, should leave! does not apply to my neighborhood and because of our own commitment Robin Koslen is a mom, grandma, Cleveland Noble Neighbors’ website on the north side, but instead to the to the children in our community, but Heights resident, retired teacher, part-time statement that “crabby people” are not feudalistic treatment of it. we are tired of it. activist, and full-time rebel. allowed to be members reinforces this reproach! So, don’t mention housing Diane Hallum is a 30-year resident in at any meeting! the Noble Road area, north of Monticello Going shopping? Where did this reproachful Boulevard. and exclusive attitude take Noble Here are 4 reasons to buy Neighbors? from local small businesses: In March 2021, an e-mail from BOULEVARD continued from page 8 Noble Neighbors to me and CH City 1. They’re part of the Council revealed attributes of the bors members and Beth El - The community’s character group about which I was unaware: Heights Synagogue members fanned 2. They recirculate more of A leader of the group said Noble out along several streets for a neighbor- your money locally Neighbors is not a citizens group, is hood trash pickup to dispose of trash 3. They support local causes not a nonprofit, and [doesn’t] have that had accumulated over the winter. and institutions bylaws that give members rights on For the latest news and information, 4. If you don’t support them how the group operates! check out the group’s Facebook page now, they may not be Furthermore, the leader stated at Boulevard Neighbors Cleveland around later the function of Noble Neighbors is as Heights, or e-mail boulevardneighbor- Find it at a network, and “members” are people [email protected]. bit.ly/dewdiligence from all over the city and beyond who

Sponsored by HeightsObserver join the Noble Neighbors e-mail list! Rachel DeGolia is a member of Boulevard Published by I and other Noble-area residents Neighbors.

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 12 www.heightsobserver.org COMMUNITY NEWS Cleveland Heights Girl Scout receives a Medal of Honor

the water herself, Costanzo jumped in and pulled him out, putting him SUMMER. on the dock’s ladder. From there, family members were able to pull him completely out of the water and on to the dock to safety. “Because of her quick thinking STARTS. and willingness to jump right into action, someone’s life was saved,” said Christyson. “It takes courage and confidence to do what she did, HERE. and we are happy to present her with this national award.” Celebrate on Training in health and safety is part of the Girl Scout program. A Select Days Girl Scout, because of the Promise and Law to which she has sub- scribed, is expected to be resource- This Summer. ful, skilled and competent; to have presence of mind and be of service COURTESY BREANNA GANUELAS COURTESY Cleveland Heights resident Ellie Costanzo to others. Many factors are taken points to her new medal. into consideration in determining if an act is of unusual bravery beyond that which is expected of a Girl Breanna Ganuelas Scout. Between 1998 and 2020, GSU- Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) SA has bestowed this honor on awarded Elizabeth (Ellie) Costan- more than 500 Girl Scouts, and zo, a Girl Scout Brownie, its Medal GSNEO has recognized 11 of its of Honor for saving the life of a own scouts with this national family friend last year. The Girl honor. On May 3, Costanzo joined FOOD TRUCK TUESDAYS Scout Medal of Honor is presented their ranks. to Girl Scouts who have performed from 11:30-1:30 p.m. acts of heroism beyond the degree Breanna Ganuelas is marketing coor- Visit cedarfairmount.org/summer for dates and locations of maturity and training expected dinator and brand specialist for Girl for their age. Scouts of North East Ohio. MUSIC THURSDAYS Jane Christyson, CEO of Girl Scouts of North East Ohio from 7:00-8:30 p.m. (GSNEO) presented Costanzo Bring your chairs and listen to Cleveland’s best! All concerts are free! with the award, along with a con- Rain dates will be posted on www.cedarfairmount.org gratulatory letter from GSUSA, in June 17 - Moises Borges Trio (Firestone Parking Lot) a ceremony at Church of the Gesu 216-371-5944 June 24 - Blue Lunch (Parking Lot adjacent to Nighttown) in University Heights, on May 3. July 15 - IN2ATIVE with Esther Nahm (Luna Bakery & Café) While visiting her grand- • Slate and tile repairs & replacement July 22 - Moises Borges (Parking Lot adjacent to Nighttown) parents’ lake house last summer, • Tear-offs & Shingles August 12 - Blue Lunch (Firestone Parking Lot) Costanzo was standing on the dock • Gutters and downspouts installed • Chimney and step tuck-pointing August 19 - IN2ATIVE with Dylan Moffit (Luna Bakery & Café) with her siblings and two family • Flat roof specialists friends. Her brother was fishing on MASTERCARD/VISA the dock and had a bite on his line; FAMILY ARTS/ENTERTAINMENT but soon after the fish bit, it swam SATURDAYS under the dock. One of the friends, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. who was 3 at the time, bent down Hands-on art projects, entertainment, historic architecture tours to look at the fish and fell into and so much more! All events are free! the water. Costanzo saw that he was having trouble breathing and Visit cedarfairmount.org/summer struggling to stay above the water. www.ustonroof.com Knowing she was able to stand in for dates and times or scan the code

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Heights Observer June 1, 2021 13 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS SCHOOLS

Cleveland Heights-University Privileged Heights Board of Education to help. Meeting highlights APRIL 20, 2021 — Work Session LWV Observer: Robin Koslen. Board members present were President James Betsy Warner, Agent We’re honored to serve this community for 25 years. Posch, Dan Heintz, Malia Lewis, Jodi Sourini, MAY 4, 2021 2491 Lee Blvd My staff and I look forward to many more with you. and Beverly Wright. Superintendent Elizabeth All board members were present, as were the Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 Thank you for your continued support and business. Kirby and Treasurer Scott Gainer also at- superintendent and treasurer Bus: 216-932-6900 ® tended. betsywarner.com Get to a better State . Get State Farm. Pandemic planning CALL ME TODAY. School-community partnerships Fourth-quarter instruction and graduation: Nancy Peppler, supervisor of the community Students began participating in the five-day and school partnerships program, reported. option model for in-person instruction on April District community partners have provided 12. State testing for grades three through 12 services, staff, and funding to support the dis- will be completed by May 14. Graduation is trict and its students during the COVID pan- planned for June 3, with June 4 as the rain 1211030 State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL demic. Notably, MetroHealth is providing date. health care, education, and employment to Summer school: Planning continues; pres- students and their families. Other community ently, 447 students have registered. partners are providing additional enrichment Vaccine clinics: The district held a CO- and support, including supervision and inter- VID-19 vaccination clinic at the high school in vention, for this summer’s Tiger Camp. partnership with Giant Eagle Pharmacy and Board members commented on the impor- the Educational Services Center. Students will tance of having centralized and experienced receive their second dose at a clinic on May management of the community partnerships. 19. For a future middle school student vacci- They also noted the educational and employ- nation, the district will host as many clinics as ment opportunities that MetroHealth provides allowed. for students at all levels, in addition to its medi- cal services. District finances, Fair School Funding Plan Scott Gainer presented the five-year forecast Noble community learning center in a new, expanded format that was easier Experience Matters. Peppler also reported on the district’s commu- to read. The Ohio legislature is considering nity learning center’s research-based school how to fund the Fair School Funding Plan. Cur- improvement strategy, built on the pillars of rently, funding for the bill is embedded in the expanded learning time and opportunities, senate’s biennial budget bill. EdChoice vouch- active family and community engagement, ers would be funded directly by the state, and collaborative leadership and practices, and the district’s per-pupil allocation would return integrated student support. The district is work- to a base amount. However, funding for the ing with Noble Elementary School to launch a plan would be phased in over six years. Thus, community learning center in fall 2021, and the district would not immediately see signifi- hire a full-time coordinator in spring 2021. cant funds. Once the state’s biennial budget A vibrant future starts with bold new vison is finalized, the district will be able to adjust Performance audit update the forecast. and leadership. Cleveland Heights’ first Jodi Sourini reported her research on per- The state’s Student Wellness and Success mayor must be ready on day one. formance audits, which included discussions funds have been folded into funds for the Fair with the superintendent and treasurer of the School Funding Plan. Malia Lewis interjected Talawanda school district about its 2020 per- that the governor did not intend for those funds BARBARA DANFORTH HAS THE formance audit. Talawanda was one of two to be used in this manner; Gainer concurred. Ohio school districts to have requested a state The state expects districts to use Elementary PROVEN EXPERIENCE TO GET IT DONE. performance audit between 2018 and 2020. and Secondary School Emergency Relief The other district’s audit was limited in scope, (ESSER) funds as a stopgap for the six-year covering only facilities. phase-in of the Fair School Funding Plan. ES- ✓ Smart economic development initiatives. The Talawanda officials criticized the au- SER funds and Student Wellness and Success dit process and did not think it was worth the funds are separate from general operating $60,000 expense. They said many audit rec- funds. ✓ Investments in all of our neighborhoods. ommendations would have adversely affect- The superintendent is considering using ed the district’s state report card results and the district’s ESSER funds, which must be spent would not be acceptable to their school com- by 2024, to support various educational mod- ✓ Strong safety forces and city services. munity; others were impractical or inconsistent els or summer programs. with state requirements. [A detailed summary The board approved the five-year fore- ✓ Accountable management of every tax dollar. of their objections can be viewed online.] cast and agreed that the community should be educated regarding the changes in fund- LWV Observer: Kathy Petrey. ing. ✓ Respect and support for our diversity. APRIL 30, 2021 — Special Meeting LWV Observer: Rosemarie Fairman. All board members were present, as were the superintendent, treasurer, and Assistant Su- Documents for all board meetings can be ac- A strong future for Cleveland Heights... perintendent Alicia Gould. cessed at www.chuh.org/BoardofEducation. aspx. Go to “BoardDocs” in the left menu; BARBARA DANFORTH for Mayor Paper and pencil for third-grade tests then “MEETINGS” in the top menu; click on LEARN MORE. GET INVOLVED. WWW.VOTEDANFORTH.COM The board met with one agenda item: to au- “Agenda.” Board meetings are livestreamed thorize a paper-and-pencil format for the on the district’s YouTube channel (www.you- Paid for by Friends of Barbara Danforth third-grade math and English language arts tube.com/CHUHSchools) and recorded for tests; the format was approved. later viewing.

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Heights Observer June 1, 2021 14 www.heightsobserver.org SENIOR SHOUT OUTS [SPONSORED]

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Heights Observer June 1, 2021 15 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS LIBRARIES Library offers memory kits What’s going on at your library? for those with dementia Coventry Village Library can reveal how people all over 1925 Coventry Road, 216-321-3400 the world fight for freedom and books, music, movies, and activities Monday, June 21, 7 p.m. equality. The library is observing that center around a theme or a decade. Juneteenth with a book giveaway The materials are designed to trigger Matchmakers Midsummer Outdoor Looking for a great sum- for children and teens. Enjoy some fond memories, and help caregivers Book Talk. mer read? Join Matchmakers on the time outdoors with library staff and those with dementia connect over library’s front lawn, where partici- and choose a title for your home fun and relaxing activities. pants will share book suggestions. library. “I hope that the users of these kits Bring your own chair or blanket, will find enjoyment in using them, and and look for the sign. This program that they will help stir up memories University Heights Library follows CDC safety guidelines, and 13866 Cedar Road, 216-321-4700 through the music, movies and activi- will be held weather permitting. Monday,dining June room 14, 6 p.m. now open ties we’ve selected,” said Wheatley. Wizbang Circus in the Park. Come Library staff also partnered

COURTESY HEIGHTS LIBRARIES HEIGHTS COURTESY one, come all, to this special per- with Amy Jenkins, supervisor of the Lee Road Library 1940s-themed memory kit materials. 2345 Lee Road, 216-932-3600 formance by Cleveland Heights’ Cleveland Heights Office on Aging, Monday, June 28, 5 p.m. Wizbang Circus Theater. The to develop the kits. The library will Big Top moves outside to Walter Isabelle Rew be donating six kits to the city’s Se- Greater Cleveland Food Bank Drive- Free fresh Stinson Community Park for an nior Center. Through Mobile Pantry. produce will be available to those evening of laughter, thrills and Alzheimer’s disease and other forms “With this partnership, driven in need at this drive-through magic. For kids, teens and adults. of dementia that result in memory by an initiative called Dementia- pickup. Those served must be 18 loss impact many in our commu- Friendly Cleveland Heights, our yummy or older, and should bring a photo Online program nity. According to the Alzheimer’s office hopes to expand our program- fun ID and make sure their car trunks Monday, June 28, 7 p.m., on Zoom Association, more than 6 million ming to include Cleveland Heights are clean. First come, first served, Startingvoted a Small safest Business joint in in town Ohio. Americans are currently living with seniors with dementia and their rain or shine. Baffled by LLCs? EINs? Operating Alzheimer’s, and more than 11 mil- caregivers,” Jenkins said. “Our vision “inda heights” Agreements? Attorney Joe Dun- lion provide unpaid care for people would be to someday be able to host son will present a legal overview with dementia. a support group at the center.” Noble Neighborhood Library 2800 Noble Road, 216-291-5665 on starting a 2196small lee roadbusiness, and In June, all Heights Libraries “The kits that the library has cleveland heights Saturday, June 19, 12 p.m. answer216.932.9000 questions. Registrationmojocle.com branches will begin circulating memo- compiled should serve as a wonderful Books begins June 1. ry kits to support community members vehicle for discussion, participation, Juneteenth Book Giveaway. living with Alzheimer’s disease and stimulation, and fun! We look forward dementia, and their caregivers. to sharing them with the community,” Library staff developed the kits added Jenkins. after attending a Dementia Friends This summer, Heights Libraries is Cleveland Heights – University training in fall 2020, hosted by the planning programs to educate commu- Benjamin Rose Institute, which de- nity members about Alzheimer’s and Heights Public Library Board scribed ways people and spaces can other forms of dementia. The Cleve- be made more welcoming to those land Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Asso- Meeting highlights with dementia. ciation will present an online series on “The library is always trying to topics ranging from “Understanding APRIL 19, 2021 been up and running during the pandemic; find ways to assist various groups in Alzheimer’s and Dementia,” on June Board members present were President Dana classes and workshops can be found at www. our community,” said Adult Services 7, to “Effective Communication Strate- Fluellen, Vice President Gabe Crenshaw, Patti csusbdc.com. Librarian Amia Wheatley. “After gies,” on July 26. All programs will be Carlyle, Max Gerboc, Annette Iwamoto, Tyler McTeague, and Vikas Turakhia. Public service report this training, we formed a task force on Zoom, and will begin at 7 p.m. • Deputy Director Kim DeNero-Akroyd pre- to create these memory kits and For more information, visit www. Finances sented the 2020 Strategic Plan annual re- programming for those living with heightslibrary.org. Total cash balance across the operating ac- port. counts, Bauer Fund accounts, and investment ac- • The library now has a tablet-lending pro- dementia and their caregivers to use counts was $21,063,366.46. gram. to help start conversations.” Isabelle Rew is the community engage- • As a supplement to the ongoing “1619 Proj- Memory kits are interactive ment associate for the Cleveland Heights- Board resolutions ect” discussion series, Librarian John Piche bundles of library materials, containing University Heights Public Library System. • Recognition of Assistant Finance Manager Amy has been interviewing authors and academ- Gerson’s retirement. ics on the topic of race in America. Links to • An amendment to the service and administra- the interviews can be found at: heightslibrary. tive policy, stating the library’s willingness to org/services/1619-project. modify services or programs to allow full par- • Technology trainers Ann MacNamara and ticipation of people with disabilities. Jackie Mayse conducted Facebook live events • Removal of overdue fines on hot spots and vid- in March on how to use Zoom and language eo games; the library is now a fine-free library. learning. Sessions were recorded and are • A contract with Bostwick Design, in the amount available on the library’s YouTube channel. of $49,840, for help with predesign and vision- • Students at Noble and Roxboro elementary ing of the Noble Neighborhood Library’s reno- schools logged in to connect with library staff vation/addition. during one of three 30-minute sessions de- signed for kindergarten through grade one, Director’s report grades two and three, and grades four through • Heights Libraries returns to pre-COVID hours of five. Staff shared new books, read aloud, and operation on May 10. talked about what to expect at the library. • The Noble Presbyterian Church sale closes on April 30. LWV Observer: Elizabeth M. Tracy. ARDMORE TREE SERVICE • Two public Zoom meetings were held to intro- Serving Tree Care Needs in the Heights duce the community to the Noble branch ex- Library board meetings are livestreamed, pansion. recorded, and available on YouTube on the for over 40 years • Staff from Maximum Accessible Housing of Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Li- Ohio are conducting accessibility assessments brary Channel. Tree Service Year Round of each of the Heights Libraries buildings, be- Information about the board, including Pruning•Removals•Cabling & Bracing ginning with the Lee Road branch. meeting minutes, can be found at heightslibrary. •Fertilization & Spraying• Air Spading • The Small Business Development Center has org/locations/heights-libraries-board.

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Heights Observer June 1, 2021 16 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS ARTS LEI offers in-person and virtual camps Helping display and Eli MIllette to work, and feels more in control of preserve your art and As Lake Erie Ink (LEI) prepares her space and her career. memories since 1973 for the start of in-person creative LEI found opportunities for expression camps this summer, one growth, as well. Forced to create a cannot help but reflect back to last writing space for youth without youth summer, when the idea of meeting in allowed in the space, LEI patiently MOLA! a physical space seemed impossible. adapted, creating strong, virtual MOLA! The story of LEI this past year programs (including a virtual Comic MOLA! is one of difficulty, as the entire Con) and finding unique ways to get organization scrambled to find ways the community creatively engaged. Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-5 to adapt. Now, LEI is coupling in-person By appointment only Stop in and learn about these fabulous Perhaps no one had to adapt camps with a series of virtual works of art! Many to choose from, or bring yours to frame. more than Catherine Madison, LEI’s programs, taking lessons learned 13429 Cedar Road program operations coordinator, and from last year and applying them to Cleveland Hts. Get $25 off on framing over $100 mother of a first-grader. Looking back the future. on the year, Madison noted, “I’ve LEI is offering limited, outdoor 216-397-7671 woodtraderframing.com had to find a balance of being able creative-expression camps, finally to manage work and also manage my bringing youth back to the Coventry daughter’s schoolwork. To be honest, PEACE campus. it was driving me nuts.” Learn more about LEI’s summer Despite the difficult year, programs at https://lakeerieink.org/ Madison noticed moments of growth. summer, and register for LEI’s in- “There’s been growth in our patience,” person and virtual camps at https:// Power-Washing Madison said. “We had to grow and lakeerieink.org/register. learn how to be patient with ourselves, Deck Staining with work, with our kids.” Eli Millette works as the communications Asphalt & After her daughter went back to and outreach director at Lake Erie Ink, and Concrete Sealing school, Madison was able to come in lives in Cleveland Heights. Tuck-Pointing Dobama releases anti-racism policy Masonry Work

Colin Anderson review and assessment of progress. In 2019, Dobama Theatre was rec- The Process defines how ognized with the Kathryn V. Lam- Dobama plans to take action going key Award for its efforts toward forward. Dobama will reimagine 216-533-2936 equity, diversity, and inclusion. On existing structures and operations, March 8, Dobama’s Board of Direc- emphasizing circular management tors renewed the theater’s commit- models rather than top-down hi- ment [to those principles] when it erarchies. It will invest further in unanimously adopted its Love and community engagement and deepen Respect document. In a statement, important relationships in order to the Dobama Theatre team noted it serve its neighbors more fully, con- was “continuing to learn about each necting with small businesses, local other’s life experiences, engaging schools, and initiatives with the city Auto • Home • Life • Commercial Insurance with and supporting colleagues, of Cleveland Heights. Most impor- and challenging injustice when we tantly, Dobama promises to democ- For all your personal and encounter it will help us create the ratize programming by involving business insurance needs community we seek.” more representative voices in script The living document is a plan selection, education programs, and An independent agent for anti-racist action, and building audience engagement. Dedicated to your unique needs a culture of authentic inclusivity at Dobama worked closely with Dobama Theatre, focusing on the ALJP Consulting in the creation of 3109 Mayfield Road, Suite 203 intersections of race with sexuality, the document. ALJP is a Chicago- Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 gender, disability, religion, and other based firm focused on creating equity 216-965-0646 oppressed identities. The plan estab- in the nonprofit arts sector. Call Jared Lavender lishes a set of guiding principles for Dobama recognizes that there is creating opportunity and undoing still much work to be done beyond www.KellerNational.com previous harm. It is divided into three this document. Breaking down bar- parts, with each section containing riers set in place by years of systemic actionable items for initiatives, such as racism and other forms of bias has fair pay, non-union employee protec- been, and will continue to be, at the tions, and preventing bias in casting center of Dobama’s mission to inspire and hiring, among others. an examination of the contemporary The first part, The People, em- world. The Love and Respect docu- phasizes the importance of physical, ment seeks to end xenophobia within mental, and emotional health in the theater industry and in our com- creating a thriving workplace, which munity. leads to high-quality art. It creates Dobama Theatre has made this a plan for ensuring representation commitment to action publicly in in programming, reimagining the order to be held accountable. To read board’s role as stewards of the organi- more about Dobama’s anti-racism zation, and investing in living wages. actions, including solidarity and ac- The next section, The Work, es- countability statements, visit dobama. tablishes a new model for collabora- org/antiracism. tive artmaking and visible inclusion, removing barriers to access through Colin Anderson is the director of produc- mentorship, clear reporting systems, tion at Dobama Theatre. He has worked and anti-bias training. This section as a director, designer and dramaturg with emphasizes the ongoing nature of the theaters throughout Cleveland, with a document, building a plan for annual special focus on LGBTQIA.

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 17 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS ARTS

Tear-offs • Re-roofs • All repairs Shingles • Slate • Tile • Gutters • Siding • Chimney Work # Metal Roofs Installed Heights Arts presents Insured • All work guaranteed • Free estimates 1 Flat Roof Experts ‘Random Acts of Art’ Roofing Nobody Under Bids Us Residential Commercial 216-319-0430

Care-A-Van June 12, French Toast Breakfast June 19 COURTESY HEIGHTS ARTS HEIGHTS COURTESY SCOTT HAIGH A performance from the 2020 season. Website: ScottHaigh.Howardhanna.com Email: [email protected] Megan Gallagher performances to the community Direct: 216-272-6889 last season, and it gave vital work 2615 Hampshire Rd, Cleveland Heights Heights Arts is proud to announce to 17 musicians trying to make ends Under contract in 6 days! the return of its Random Acts of meet in the Heights community. Art LIVE! music program for this Past hosts said the music provided summer and fall. The concert series a light during an otherwise gray was born during the pandemic, period. when local musicians found that “Northcliffe neighbors their usually steady summer work enthusiastically hosted several was no longer available due to socially distanced front-porch the shutdown of many, if not concerts this past summer. This all, performance opportunities. was a wonderful opportunity for Concerts went virtual, and artists neighbors and friends to enjoy live were inspired to write and create music safely during the pandemic,” new music addressing current remembered concert host Donna issues and challenges. The Random Johnson. “The first concert was Acts of Art LIVE! series allowed emotional. We were gathered for continued live performances, with face masks on. For many of bringing friends and neighbors us, this was the first live music we together, while remaining socially had experienced since March. And distanced. this was our first neighborhood “There is something magical gathering since the pandemic. It about hyper-local pop-up events was a joy seeing everyone!” like this, especially after some Heights Arts hopes to continue of the isolation we felt in the the momentum and provide more last year,” said Arleigh Savage, performances to the community music coordinator at Heights Arts. in a safe, fun environment this “I always witness spontaneous season. Certain communities will conversation and excitement also benefit from free concerts shared with listeners at these thanks to funding from the Paul concerts, with everyone walking M. Angell Family Foundation. away feeling energized with the Said Heights Arts Executive connection the event fosters.” Director Rachel Bernstein, “In The Random Acts of Art many ways, this program is LIVE! program provided eight allowing us to reach communities we might not have been able to reach prior to the pandemic. It has The Heights’ #1 choice given us a way to bring music to a for interior and exterior painting neighborhood instead of waiting or hoping for its residents to find us—providing a performance for those who might never have heard it otherwise.” In addition to free Serving Northeast performances, private bookings Ohio Homeowners are available to those who would since 1975 like to host a performance. Those interested in booking a concert Quality Painting. can visit www.heightsarts.org/ THAT’S ALL WE DO! random-acts-of-art to fill out a host reservation form. E-mail questions to Arleigh Savage, at music@ Call us at 216-529-0360 heightsarts.org. for a Free Consultation! neubertpainting.com Megan Gallagher works in marketing at Heights Arts.

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 18 www.heightsobserver.org CLASSIFIEDS

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SEVERANCE continued from page 3 SAME DAY HARVEY & 50 owner-occupied townhomes— Mobile Battery Replacement FRIENDS munity’s expectations for trans- the Courtyards of Severance. Bookshop forming Severance. That did not Another glimpse into a possible 2nd Floor happen; in 2016, the Namdar Realty future came more recently, with the All proceeds of the Group, based in Great Neck, N.Y., establishment and proposed expan- support the library Lee Road Branch purchased it at a public auction for sion of a MetroHealth hospital. Great Selection of Used Books, $10.5 million. Some observers have suggested DVDs, & CDs For Sale Since then, Namdar, which owns that Severance be reconfigured to Every Day! more than 400 properties nation- feel more like the rest of Cleveland wide and specializes in acquiring Heights. 440-571-4969 www.friendsheightslibraries.org distressed properties, has managed The revitalization of Severance Severance without making a signifi- should be a top priority for Cleve- cant reinvestment in it. land Heights’ new administration. CITY LITE ELECTRIC, INC. One What are your thoughts about TEACHER/TUTOR The future of Severance: For all your electrical needs could say, “Severance is too big to its future? fail”; or, more accurately, “Sever- RESIDENTIAL / COMMERCIAL * Vivian Vail * ance is too big and too important Robert N. Brown is a city planner with Certified, with Reading Endorsement to Cleveland Heights to be allowed 45 years of experience, including nine Build Confidence - Enjoy Learning to fail.” years as Cleveland’s city planning direc- (440) 840-8941 Pre-K - 5th Grade A glimpse into what might be part tor. A Cleveland Heights resident for Ask for Steve License #48370 Your home or library of Severance’s future came between more than 40 years, he is the co-chair of 2000 and 2007, when Peter Rubin’s the FutureHeights Planning & Develop- [email protected] “Reliable electrical service and repair” Coral Company redeveloped the ment Committee. He can be reached at 216.224.8789 northeast segment of Severance with [email protected].

Heights Observer June 1, 2021 19 www.heightsobserver.org Join Heights Schools Foundation and the CH-UH School District in congratulating the Heights High Class of 2021, along with our 5th and 8th grade students moving up to new buildings next year. All of Tiger Nation can help celebrate these milestones by displaying this tiger in your window.

Congratulations to all of our scholars. Your Future is Now!

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CHUH-HO-fullpage-Grad2021.indd 1 5/19/21 2:05 PM Heights Observer June 1, 2021 20 www.heightsobserver.org