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Singing Angels Jesse Owens In Memoriam: relocates to Olympic Oak Barbara Spaan Old Brooklyn p 12 p 15 p 8 Best Of Instagram

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2 hat is resiliency? How does it apply to a neighborhood? While many conversations today are defined around Spring 2019 economic and climate resilience, Old Brooklyn resi- dents know of a far more intimate version: community building.W FreshWater featured content: A huge reason for the strength of our community and the strong re- 5 / Spotlight: Historical Society of Old Brooklyn lationships we have within our neighborhood was Barb Spaan. Sadly, 10 / Old Brooklyn barber shops are a cut above Old Brooklyn lost one of its most treasured leaders when Barb passed 12 / Legendary tree rooted at Rhodes High School away this February. We grieve with her loved ones and also apply the 16 / Bakery fights human trafficking with cupcakes lessons she brought to the neighborhood as we move forward in a 22 / Building a church family one house at a time world without her.

Barb created, led, and served the Old Brooklyn Crime Watch for Old Brooklyn News: nearly three decades. She hosted thousands of community meetings 8 / Singing Angels relocates to Old Brooklyn over those years and through that work she empowered and support- 15 / In Memoriam: Barbara Spaan ed neighbors knowing each other and knowing their community. She believed firmly in making connections on your block, because those 18/ In Memoriam: Joseph Cannon relationships are what make our neighborhood strong. 20 / National Park 100 anniversary, part VII 24 / Church & News Events That is community resiliency. Looking out for your neighbor’s needs Inside 25 / Classifieds makes a tighter knit and inclusive neighborhood that can respond to challenges. This was a lasting legacy given to us by Barb and one that 26 / Community Meetings we will continue to work on moving forward. 27 / Town Crier The interactions between small business owners, community garden- FreshWater articles are part of the On the Ground - Old Brooklyn ers, crossing guards, police officers, and church leaders is central to community reporting project in partnership with FreshWater Cleveland, the work of OBCDC. In fact, it is the very core of our organization. Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation, Greater Cleve- Our work with the Old Brooklyn Farmer’s Market, small business land Partnership, Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, Cleveland Devel- support, and homeowner workshops are intended to bring us togeth- opment Advisors, and Cleveland Metropolitan School District. er. It is only through that connectivity that we make progress in Old Brooklyn. Join your neighbors at any of the community programs highlighted We are the accessible, family-friendly Cleveland neighborhood in this edition of the Old Brooklyn News or take some time this spring where business and people come to grow. to get to know others on your street, in your school, or at the coffee shop. That will make our community more resilient, and it will con- tinue on the legacy created by Barb for us to honor. To accomplish that vision, we provide: Community and Special Events, Block Club Organizing, Safety and Crime Watch, Small Business Assistance, Real Estate Redevelopment, Community Gardening, Housing Rehabilitation, Neighborhood Marketing, Community Jeffrey T. Verespej David Martin Education Planning, Code Enforcement, Old Brooklyn Advocacy

Executive Director President, Board of Directors Interested in advertising in our new, full color and large distribution magazine? Contact Sandy Worona at 216-459-1000 or [email protected] ON THE COVER

OBCDC and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park will be Staff bringing the “Crooked River Exploration Camp” back for Jeffrey T. Verespej Heather McMahon 2019. Check our website and Facebook page for info! Executive Director Director, Community Health

Julie Brown Rosemary Mudry Marketing & Promotions Coordinator Director, Neighborhood Development Board of Directors Jayme Lucas-Bukszar Jason A. Powers David Martin, President; Kristen Wilson, Vice President; Fr. Doug Brown, Corporate Director, Development & Communications Secretary; David Robinson, Treasurer, Mike Caparanis, Reggie Clark, Ramon Claudio, Neighborhood Development Project Manager John Jenkins, Dave Margolius, Sean McGrane, Richey Piiparinen, Tiffany Sedlacek Amber Jones Sandy Worona Community Health Coordinator Outreach Coordinator and Old Brooklyn News Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation is a 501(c)(3) - it holds Board Meetings at MetroHealth Old Brooklyn Health Center, 4299 Pearl Rd. every fourth Tues. of the month, Carlos Laboy Community Otreach Coordinator Ed Zubek 6 - 7:30 pm Wi-Fi Support

Meetings open to the public but the board reserves the right to close portions of the meetings. To confirm call 216-459-1000.

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4 Meet the real-deal, long-time Old Brooklyn residents, whose stories matter more than ever by Jen Jones Donatelli ed by president Connie Ewa- We asked Ewazen to assemble a pital; the western side of Schaaf was then zen, the Historical Society of Old group of long-time HSOB participants known as Doctor’s Row,” explains Riegel- Brooklyn (HSOB) is a dedicated so that they could share their own storied mayer-Kolodny. “Webster used to start bunch that has been meeting reg- pasts, and their tales didn’t disappoint. his office hours around 5:30 or 6 a.m. be- Lularly since 1982—when a group of locals cause the whole neighborhood was made This Old House: up of greenhouses. He would get up ear- Jill Riegelmayer-Kolodny ly to take care of the farmers and go by When any house is on the market for six horse-and-buggy to make house calls.” years, it’s sure to attract attention—but Riegelmayer-Kolodny continued her for Jill Riegelmayer-Kolodny, the mas- quest for information by tracking down sive 18-room historic house on Schaaf Webster’s great nieces and nephews, as Road was a constant source of curios- well as finding Webster’s former scalpels ity. “I God was saving that house and equipment at the Dittrick Museum for me,” says Riegelmayer-Kolodny. of Medical History. Some of the relics can When Riegelmayer-Kolodny eventual- even be found within the home, such as interested in forming a neighborhood his- ly bought the home, she became “obsessed” the 1896 diploma that still hangs above the torical society first met in the basement of with learning more about its original ten- fireplace in the office, and the sitting room the Glenn Restaurant on Pearl Road. Over ants—scouring the fourth-floor attic of Pearl that was once Webster’s waiting room. the years, the group has taken on a number Road United Methodist Church (where the “I’ve always been intrigued by old of ambitious initiatives in preserving Old society’s archives were stored before the homes, and the fact that I have one to live Brooklyn’s legacy, including an intensive museum opened) for old articles from the in with a great history is just phenomenal,” oral history gathering project resulting in Cleveland Press, death notices, and former says Riegelmayer-Kolodny. two books. editions of “Who’s Who in Cleveland.” The heart of the operation is the Sacred Ground: Vern Recker tiny museum located at 3430 Memphis Sporting a curly handlebar mustache, a Bolo Ave., which has been open since 2016. tie with an Ohio-shaped , and a The small but significant room plays trucker hat that reads “U.S. Navy Seabees,” host to a treasure trove of Old Brook- Vern Recker just looks like a man with sto- lyn gems, from old James Rhodes High ries to tell—and he doesn’t disappoint. The School yearbooks to framed copies of 75-year-old can remember getting milk The Brooklyn Newsto a pram filled with deliveries from Producers Dairy via horse baby dolls donated by an elderly resident. and buggy, swimming in a round pool at “There was an old lady from the senior the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, and buy- center who wanted to make sure her dolls ing a toy truck at Woolworth with a dime. would stay in Old Brooklyn when she was She also found blueprints for the house, He also remembers being a first-grad- gone,” says Ewazen. which were dated around 1925 and 1927. er at Our Lady of Good Counsel (now In light of the neighborhood’s momen- What she learned was that the house Mary Queen of Peace), where oth- tum, Ewazen sees the society’s role as more was built by Samuel J. Webster, a renowned er students referred to the school as pivotal than ever. “One of the objectives doctor who helped found Deaconess Hos- “OLGC - Old Ladies Gossip Club.” of the historical society is ensuring that, as pital. (In fact, the same bricks were used for the neighborhood flourishes and changes, both buildings.) Webster’s medical practice the history continues to live on,” says Ewa- included applying leeches, using acupunc- zen, who has been part of the group since ture, and treating typhoid fever by immers- 1986 (when the group became official). ing patients in ice-cold baths; he also deliv- Indeed, Old Brooklyn is in a period of ered more than 500 babies during his career. immense change, but the rich legacy of the Riegelmayer-Kolodny also learned that neighborhood is unlikely to be forgotten Webster practiced out of his home, which any time soon—and that’s in large part due explained why there were two entrances to the hard work of the historical society. (one for patients and one for personal use). So we wondered: while the HSOB is busy “He chose that location for the house telling Old Brooklyn’s story, who is telling because he wanted to be close to the hos- Cont’d on page their stories?

5 Cont’d from page 5 “It was a gathering spot for the Boy Scouts, One of Goodwin’s fondest memories But one of Recker’s most legendary sto- Kiwanis Club, different church groups of the farm is the swimming hole that her ries revolves around his grandfather’s for Bible study, and American Legion.” grandfather dug using horse-drawn machin- house and its unconventional origins. ery for her and her cousins. (“He dug a drain When his grandfather got married, he down in the valley to drain it,” she explains.) found the perfect house for him and his For Goodwin and the rest of her rela- bride…but it was a church located at tives coming of age in Old Brooklyn, the Pearl and Broadview. Sometime between pool was everything. “The pool was just 1900 and 1910, Recker’s grandfather the greatest thing growing up—it was the promptly purchased St. Luke’s Church for center of the neighborhood,” says Good- $400 and paid $700 to have it moved to win. “Four generations enjoyed that pool.” West 30th Street and Devonshire, where When the greenhouse farms began to it was remodeled as a residential home. be displaced by OH-176 construction in “One of the first things he did was the 1960s, efforts were made to save the remove the steeple,” says Recker, whose Loizos’ father also felt strongly about homes, with Goodwin’s Aunt Betty even middle name is “Louis” after his grandfa- supporting local businesses in the area, petitioning to get her 160-year-old home ther. “He also built the front porch with sourcing from nearby Roy’s, Producers designated as a historical land mark so it the help of my cousins, who were brick- Dairy, and M&W Meat Shop. “We would wouldn’t be razed. layers. When his two oldest kids were run out of bread because we were so busy, married, he put two apartment suites in so I used to make runs over to the bakery the back and remodeled for a second time at night to get more,” remembers Loizos, so that the whole family could live there.” who will turn 79 years old this year. Though the house was torn down Loizos says his dad also took the mean- around 1980, it continues to live on ing of “family restaurant” seriously, extend- as part of local lore. Recker’s grandfa- ing that meaning to their professional family ther was also known in the area because as well. “He felt he had a responsibility to his he worked for Busch Funeral Home, employees—it wasn’t just a dollar tradeoff,” where he was among the first in Cleve- says Loizos. “This was their livelihood, and land to receive an embalmer license. he wanted to make certain to keep it going.” Recker is proud to be the historian of When it became apparent that their sorts for his family, and it shows in his ef- A Deep-Dive into the Past: Lou Goodwin efforts were for naught, Old Brook- fervescent retelling of his background. Says Where OH-176 now sits is the stuff of Lou lyn residents started taking pieces of the Recker, “I never liked history when I was in Goodwin’s memories. “Literally, the whole home for posterity—from pieces of the school, but now I think it’s the best thing street was our street,” says Goodwin, refer- slate roof to the fireplace mantle to the ever.” ring to her extended family’s stretch of farms front door (now in custody of Ewazen). across Jennings Road during her childhood “I took a spice bush, irises, and daffo- in the 1950s. “I-76 took my Uncle Bill’s dils, and planted them at my own house in Good Eats, Great Memories: Mi- house, my grandpa’s house, and three other Brooklyn, where I’ve now been 27 years,” chael Loizos houses of our family.” says Goodwin. “The plants are still alive.” It’s easy for Michael Loizos to remember all Though the street no longer exists, the the old stores and landmarks that have dot- greenhouse farming culture that permeated This article is part of the On the Ground - ted the Pearl Road streetscape over the de- it and much of Old Brooklyn during that Old Brooklyn community reporting project cades—after all, his family’s Glenn Restau- era continues to be a point of fascination. in partnership with FreshWater Cleveland, rant was at the heart of it all. Goodwin can remember her grandfather Old Brooklyn Community Development taking his produce (mostly tomatoes and Corporation, Greater Cleveland Partnership, celery) to Central Market—where Quicken Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, Cleveland Development Advisors, and Cleveland Metro- Loans Arena Stands now)—and her and her politan School District. “dozens of cousins” helping to pick radishes. “As a kid, I remem- ber making baskets out Cleveland native and enthusiast Jen Jones of cardboard, and we Donatelli is thrilled to take on the manag- ing editor role at FreshWater. As a full-time would each make five freelance writer and editor for more than a cents per basket,” says decade, Jen has contributed to publications Goodwin. “Back then, including Redbook, Budget Travel, GOOD, Playboy, Thrillist, Cleveland Magazine, you could get a full Los Angeles Confidential, San Francisco, Ohio Along with the very first Historical Soci- basket of tomatoes for Today, and many more. She is also a contrib- ety of Old Brooklyn meeting, “we had a lot of uting editor for Destination Cleveland and a dollar and a quarter.” a proud graduate of Ohio University’s E.W. the community meeting there,” says Loizos. Scripps School of Journalism.

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7 The Singing Angels relocate offices and rehearsal studios to former Producers Dairy building owned by St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church by Lynette Filips Hear someone mention “The Singing Angels” and any one work his or her way up the ranks. Very occasionally, however, of a number of thoughts might come to mind – an ‘apprentice’ might be directly accepted into the Performing n They’re those kids from Northeast Ohio with extraordinary Chorus. voices. A Cleveland man named Bill Boehm founded The Singing n They’ve sung at the tree lighting ceremony at the White House Angels in 1964. Born in 1920, he had a master’s degree in in Washington, D.C. Dramatic Arts from Western Reserve University which he had n They’ve sung at the Vatican for the Pope. to put on hold when he was drafted into World War II. But n They’ve sung in lots of foreign countries on their international after the War, Bill found employment in the performance art tours. industry. He appeared on stage; he worked behind the stage; he As of January of this year, sang in live productions; and Photo by Charlene Duncan here’s a new thought to add he sang for at least one major to those (and to any others television production. which might have come to After approximately mind) – They’re now based in two decades of that kind of Old Brooklyn! work (and a marriage and a Mostly recently located in child later) Bill created his the Cleveland Masonic Tem- now-famous program to give ple on Euclid Ave., they need- interested children the op- ed to find a new home when portunity to perform what he the Masonic Hall announced considered to be ‘good’ mu- more than a year ago that it sic – Broadway show tunes, was going to be sold. That they patriotic and sacred hymns, landed at 3600 Biddulph Ave. holiday carols, old standards, and State Rd. in Old Brooklyn contemporary music and in a building which St. Mary’s even barbershop harmony. is delighted to be renting, is a Singing Angels Artistic Director Charles Eversole (at the piano) leads some And along with the vocals, story of connections and ser- of the Performing Chorus members during their rehearsal at their new he taught the young people endipitous timing. studios on State Rd. dance moves and showman- St. Mary’s principal, Rita ship, too. Basalla, was very familiar with the Angels because she had a The performance history of The Singing Angels is a chron- brother and a son who performed with them when they were icle of ‘firsts’ – their first performance was for the Christmas school-age. And the Angels’ head choreographer has a daughter holidays in 1964; their first television special was in1967; in St. Mary’s pre-school. Being on the lookout for a new space their first performance at the White House was in 1969; for their offices and rehearsal space she spotted the old Produc- their first record album, Bill Boehm’s Singing Angels was in 1972; ers Dairy building which St. Mary’s owns. their first international tour (to Romania) was in 1974. They’ve Although the remodeling is still underway, the five mem- appeared in concert with numerous superstars, both vocal and bers of The Singing Angels’ administrative staff moved in to instrumental, including, of course, the Cleveland Orchestra. their first floor offices at the beginning anuary.of J Not surpris- The Singing Angels have had a number of homes before ingly, the two full-time staff members also have Singing Angels their recent move to Old Brooklyn. Their first rehearsal hall connections. Both Executive Director Holly Harris and Artis- was the former Statler Hotel; the second was the old YMCA tic Director Charles Eversole sang in the Performing Chorus building; the third was the Cleveland Fire Training Acade- when they were young, and so did some of the part-time teach- my; and the fourth, the aforementioned Masonic Temple. The ing staff, too. Old Brooklyn location is their first home which isn’t downtown. At the end of January the Reserve Chorus and Littlest An- The Singing Angels’ signature song isLet There Be Peace gels began rehearsing (at different times) on the first floor of the on Earth. No doubt they’ll be singing it at their Sunday, May former Producers building and ultimately the Performing Cho- 19th, 2019, annual benefit concert at the KeyBank State The- rus will rehearse on the third floor. For now, though, they’re atre at Playhouse Square, and again during their tour to Ireland either in the Crystal Chalet, or, if it’s been rented, in St. Mary June 10 to June 19. It’s also available for anyone’s listening School’s gymnasium. pleasure online. The children in The Singing Angels range in age from seven The Singing Angels’ academic year is divided into two or eight to eighteen years old, and belong to one of three groups semesters, with classes taking place on Saturdays (and for the – Littlest Angels (a training chorus, currently composed of 18 Performing Chorus, expanding to Tuesday and Thursday eve- second and third graders); Reserve Chorus (45 students); and nings and Sundays as the year progresses.) Auditions are re- Performing Chorus (110 students). To be a member of the Per- quired for the older students, but not for the Littlest Angels. forming Chorus is obviously the goal, and usually a child must Cont’d on next page

8 There are expenses for tuition and uniforms. Parents who are interested in enrolling their children should visit the web- Saturday, May 18th site, www.singingangels.org, or call 216-432-5555 from Mon- Like us on Facebook to keep day through Thursday to obtain more information. up to date on start times, prizes and sponsors..

Lynette Filips has lived Explore Cleveland’s Old Brooklyn about 50 years of her life in neighborhood by bicycle and Old Brooklyn and writen for experience some of the best the Old Brooklyn News for 29 of our local businesses of them. She’s most known for her local history articles For more information and The Town Crier and website: pedalforprizes.org for her work as the former email: [email protected] monthly OBN copy editor.

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9 A cut above the rest: Old Brooklyn’s barbershops offer style and substance to the community by Rebecca Ferlotti Both Urban Kutz and The Trim have participated in pro- grams with the City of Cleveland Police Department. “They arbershops offer much more than traditional haircuts spoke to the kids and brought along a horse from their Mount- in Old Brooklyn—where barber chairs double as ed Police Department,” explains Jones, who believes these local school desks, as psychologists’ couches, as job coun- programs are crucial to lessening tension in the community selor offices, and as safe spaces. between police officers and citizens. BTake Urban Kutz Barbershop, which regularly offers free Community love blood pressure screenings as part of founder Waverly Willis’ With many repeat customers, local barbers truly get to S.W.A.G. (Saving Women and Gents) program, or The Trim know their clients. Ramon Claudio, who owns Top of the Line Barbershop, which recently helped neighborhood kids head Barbershop, remembers opening the barbershop nine years ago back to school in style with a day devoted to free haircuts and when there weren’t many in the area. Kids who got some of school supplies. their first haircuts from him are now on their way to college. For The Trim's owner Derek Jones, it’s all part of offering “It makes me feel good that moms feel good coming to my both style and substance to the community. “I’d like to think barbershop,” he says. that we play an important role in the community as a sort of getaway from typical everyday stress,” says Jones. “Barbers and customers not only become friends, but a trusted sounding board.”

More than a barber chair After Willis expanded beyond his initial Urban Kutz lo- cation in Cudell with a second location in Old Brooklyn, it didn’t take long to notice the way locals openly showed their Old Brooklyn pride. Since then, Willis has made it a priority to engage the neighborhood’s residents in every possible way via his nonprofit, The Urban Barber Association—from liter- acy programs to an employment guide for formerly incarcer- ated individuals. "Everything outside of cutting hair funnels through the Urban Barber Association," explains Willis. TUBA also recently received a Cleveland Foundation grant for the aforementioned blood pressure screenings, which Photo courtesy of FreshWater are facilitated by Cleveland State University and Case Western Top of the Line Barbershop Reserve University students every month. Willis intentionally sought a diverse neighborhood for what he calls his “all-encompassing, super diverse, and all-wel- coming business model,” and he credits the Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation (OBCDC) for mak- ing a conscious effort to foster that diversity. “Communities say they’re trying to increase diversity be- cause it sounds good, but not many make the actual effort. [OBCDC] has always done everything they can to help out. They showed me they weren’t just words,” Willis says. True to form, Urban Kutz has become a safe haven for a wide variety of clients. “So many people from the LGBTQ community have come in and told us they appreciate having an atmosphere where they can be a regular person,” says Wil- lis. “As an African-American man, I can really identify with Photo courtesy of FreshWater that—how people noticeably treat you different—and that’s a Urban Kutz Barber Shop shame.” Cont’d on next page

10 Extensions and expansions Willis wants to continue this legacy of acceptance with This article is part of the On the Ground - Old Brooklyn community re- his next project: Urban Kutz Style Studio, which will open porting project in partnership with FreshWater Cleveland, Old Brooklyn next door to Urban Kutz on October 5th. The Trim Barber- Community Development Corporation, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, Cleveland Development Advisors, and shop also has plans to expand, with “the ultimate goal” to Cleveland Metropolitan School District. become a franchise, according to Jones. Top of the Line Barbershop and Coffee Coffee Coffee feed off of each other, revitalizing the area. “We’re making it Rebecca Ferlotti is a freelance writer and Cleveland enthusi- a cool scene,” Claudio says. He will continue to participate ast who loves to cook. When in Old Brooklyn events (having volunteered for the Smor- she’s not writing at home, she’s traveling the world and gasbord dunk tank in July), and hopes to keep attracting trying to get to 30 countries people to the neighborhood, even when he is on the road before she turns 30. cutting hair for Machine Gun Kelly, UFC fighters, and oth- er celebrities. Claudio has also developed a mobile app to streamline booking appointments. “They can listen to playlists and see AA JenkinsJenkins Inc.Inc. pictures of haircuts, too,” Claudio explains. “It’s in the de- velopment stage, but my clients are loving it so far.” Cleveland 216-631-4800 The barbers of Old Brooklyn are paving the way for Medina 330-278-2799 a diverse generation of business owners, and building off the Old Brooklyn ideal of a welcoming community. In the ROOFINGROOFING && SIDINGSIDING meantime, as Jones says, “We will continue to focus on tak- ing care of our customers, one head at a time.” www.jenkinsexteriors.com Missing Shingles? Wind Damage? RELIABLE CONSTRUCTION Since Gutters 1980 Vinyl Siding Aluminum Siding Refi nishing BUILD l REMODEL l REPAIR $250 OFF 216 -221- 0012 Roof Replacement “Serving Cuyahoga County Since 1982” With mention of this ad at time of estimate. Prior sales excluded. Licensed - Bonded - Insured Mention this offer. Can be applied towards insurance deductible. A. Jenkins Inc. 216-631-4800 Free Estimates “Bob did a fantastic job. We’re Member extremely pleased with the work he www.areliableconstruction.net did. He is honest and professional.” A+ RATED -Nancy

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11 A tree grows in Old Brooklyn and it’s the stuff of legends by Rebecca Ferlotti very tree tells a story, but this one is for the (record) books. Oakville, Alabama, in 1913 and hit its stride in the 1920s af- Aptly located behind the athletic complex at James ter the Great Migration, during which Jesse’s family moved Ford Rhodes High School, the Jesse Owens Olympic Oak to Cleveland to find work. While Jesse’s other siblings had to Etree pays homage to the track star of the same name who brought get jobs because of the Depression, it was clear from the be- home four medals from the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin. ginning that Jesse could run at unbelievable speeds. Charles Owens’ victory was two-fold—not only was he the first person Reilly, Jesse’s coach at the now-defunct Fairmount Junior ever to win four gold medals at one time in Olympic track his- High School, is credited to discovering his incredible talent. tory, but as a black competitor in Nazi , he was able to “Even at his first track meet, his times were world- powerfully disprove Adolf Hit- class, which was un- ler’s idea of Aryan supremacy. heard of,” Tyrone says. To commemorate Owens’ ac- At the MOCA event in Au- complishments, the German gust, Tyrone shared his col- Olympic Committee gifted lection of Jesse Owens mem- him four English oak sap- orabilia, including a picture lings—which he later planted book from the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, behind his child- and other original photos. hood home, at The Ohio State And, of course, the treasure of University, and at James Ford the Jesse Owens collection at is Rhodes High School. (Owens the Jesse Owens Olympic Oak. attended East Tech, but was The tree received a plaque in bused to James Ford Rhodes October 2012 as part of a ded- High School for track practice.) ication ceremony held by the Over time, the trees in Old Brooklyn Community De- Berlin and his one-time home velopment Corporation (OB- were lost to the war and dem- CDC), and last year, OBCDC Photo by Bob Perkoski olition, respectively, and no Jesse Owens Tree at James Ford Rhodes High School in Old Brooklyn successfully worked with the one is sure of the exact where- Holden Arboretum to clone abouts of the tree at OSU, so the Jesse Owens Olympic Oak. it’s safe to say that James Ford Rhodes High School remains Now Tyrone is turning his attention to spotlighting oth- the only surefire spot to admire one of Owens’ Olympic Oaks. er hometown sports heroes—in hopes of encouraging future gen- And right now, both Owens and his erations of Cleveland athletes. He and Smith have joined forces Old Brooklyn-based tree are having a moment. on a book and documentary that will tell the stories of Olympi- In July, Governor John Kasich announced that Ohio’s ans like David Albritton, who followed Jesse from East Tech to newest—and largest—state park would be named after Jes- The hioO State University and to the 1936 Olympics, where he se Owens, and in early August, the Museum of Contempo- received the silver medal for high jump. Other athletes profiled rary Art (MOCA) hosted a Q&A between the Plain Dealer’s will include Vivian Brown, an East Tech grad who competed Bill Livingston and Owens’ second cousin, Tyrone Owens, ti- in the 1964 Olympics, and Eleanor Montgomery, a John Hay tled, “Points of View: The Legacy of Jesse Owens.” (The tree is High School alum who also competed in the 1964 Olympics. also featured prominently in Cyprien Gaillard’s Nightlife instal- “We’ve started doing the groundwork, and we hope we lation, currently running at MOCA through September 30.) don’t leave anyone out that’s deserving. There are several oth- Tyrone Owens—Jesse’s second cousin—is also get- er Olympians that went to East Tech and no one has heard of ting recognition. The former women’s track coach for James them,” Tyrone says. “These stories have just not been told.” Ford Rhodes High School, Owens will be inducted into the James Ford Rhodes Hall of Fame on October 12 alongside Ni- This article is part of the On the Ground - Old Brooklyn community re- cole Smith, another esteemed athlete and James Ford Rhodes porting project in partnership with FreshWater Cleveland, Old Brooklyn alum who later played professional basketball in Europe. Community Development Corporation, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Tyrone began his career with Cleveland Metro- Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, Cleveland Development Advisors, and politan School District in 1978, jumping from school to Cleveland Metropolitan School District. school until he was selected as the Rhodes track coach in 1982. Tyrone describes his 24-year-long career at Rhodes Rebecca Ferlotti is a freelance as “exciting”—having sent all types of students to state writer and Cleveland enthusi- ast who loves to cook. When championships, many of whom received scholarships. she’s not writing at home, He has also played a big part in helping preserve the she’s traveling the world and legacy of his second cousin, Jesse—whose story began in trying to get to 30 countries before she turns 30.

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13 ld Brooklyn is a community built by the neighbors who love it and the businesses that sustain it. It is Cleveland’s family-friendly neighborhood where business and people come to grow; a place rich with history of multi-generational Obusinesses and households who have put down roots and supported the community. OBCDC is a membership based organization that works to enhance the community on every level and without your support and partnership our mission cannot be achieved. Joining our organization is the first, easiest, and most accessible way to show that you support your neighborhood. As a member of OBCDC, you are part of that investment and support our mission to bring together all in creating a vibrant neighborhood. We hope you’ll consider joining today!

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14 In memoriam Barbara Lynn Spaan 6/11/1955 - 2/10/2019 Our community lost a giant this Her service to community grew week. Barb Spaan, committed daughter, from a heart rich in spirit and love. Her sister and partner wore too many adjec- exuberance for her family, particularly tives and titles to list. Her work in our her beloved father, emanated. That fam- community could be measured in meet- ily love was deeply connected with her ings, phone calls, or conversations; her German American heritage, in part due love for our community could not. Barb to her family’s role in the Schuhplattler was a part of our family, as she was for so und Trachtenuerein Bavaria, Inc., her many over the last three decades in Old longstanding participation and leader- Brooklyn and our hearts are broken. ship in traditional German dance, and of course the great visits and food. As all who knew her will under- stand, she was a source of laughter and joy in our office. Quick to tell stories that would make others laugh, find the bright spot in an otherwise challenging nity. The Old Brooklyn Crime Watch, moment, or share her dog Cooper’s most a network of residents that she created recent tale Barb always had a way to and led, was a one-of-a-kind community brighten our day. partnership that has served Old Brook- Barb Spaan and Dan Ezra lyn for more than two decades. Vigi- lant and devoted to service she became As part of Cleveland’s network of a sworn Auxiliary Officer for the City community development professionals of Cleveland and wore the title proudly Barb stood out for her kindness and ded- each day of her life. ication. She was motivated by love and In a noisy and chaotic world, Barb worked tirelessly to connect neighbors was consistent, clear and driven. She and businesses in the spirit of commu- was often the first to remind us that if a program changed one person’s life it was worth it. We know Dan Ezra, Barb Spaan and Barb kept the following poem at her desk; we could not think of she changed thou- Council President Kevin Kelly a more fitting way to remember her spirit than to share it here: sands more than that. She stood by what she knew to be right and never hesitated to support others. If a meeting had to be moved on late notice, she would sit and wait in the old location to ensure everyone found out. When a commu- Mo Varga, Barb Spaan and Vince Seminatore nity member came into the office with Our loss is painful, but her memo- troubles she would sit ry will be a blessing, her impact felt for and listen with endless generations, and her spirit will live on patience and willing- through acts of service and kindness in ness to help. She was a our community. model of caring. ~Jason Powers & Jeffrey Verespej

15 This Old Brooklyn bakery is fighting human trafficking, one cupcake bouquet at a time by Stefanie Valentic

cupcake bouquet can make anyone’s day—but for some, it can make a world of difference. Enter Abolition Bakery, the brainchild of Old Brooklyn resident Rita Ballenger. Celebrat- ingA its fifth anniversary this year, the home-based bak- ery operation donates a portion of its proceeds to help combat a devastating issue: human trafficking. (Accord- ing to the International Labor Organization, more than 40 million people globally are victims of modern slavery.) The recipe for what would become Abolition Bakery began in 2011, after Ballenger retired from a surgical career at Metro- Health and a teaching stint at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C). To her surprise, the college offered Ballenger college credits as part of her retirement package, which she took ad- vantage of by enrolling in the school’s culinary baking program. Though Ballenger had already been aware of the human trafficking crisis, she didn’t realize the magnitude of the issue until she attended a presentation from the Collaborative to Rita Ballenger, Abolition Bakery at the Old Brooklyn Farmers Market End Urban Trafficking, a Cleveland-based organization. “I was made aware of human trafficking not only in the [Unit- ed States], but in this city. I just thought it was a third-world prob- Raising Awareness lem,” she says. “I was just really shocked and undone about it.” With help from an entirely volunteer-based staff, Ballenger After conducting additional research, Ballenger decided to di- now churns out loaves of bread, biscotti, and cupcake bouquets rect her baking talents at raising awareness and funds for local to clients around Northeast Ohio. To date, the business has organizations that are on the ground, battling trafficking every donated more than $10,000 in profits to Cleveland Rape Crisis day. Center, UnChained Love, and Remember Nhu, just to name The first break for Abolition Bakery came in 2013, a few. The fruits of Ballenger’s efforts can be seen both locally when Ballenger walked into the now-closed Food Peddler and internationally. on Fulton Road in Old Brooklyn. “There was a new store “Within the last year or two, we have been able to provide that opened up in my neighborhood,” she explains. “I went vocational training for some of the girls involved in [Remember there and asked if he would like to carry my bread, and he Nhu],” Ballenger says. “We provided cosmetology school for a said yes. That was the beginning of Abolition Bakery.” Cont’d on next page

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16 young lady in Bolivia, and we have been able to provide school for two young girls–who are only in the eighth grade–in Kenya.” In Northeast Ohio, Abolition Bakery’s efforts can be seen through its work with the Collaborative to End Urban Trafficking, as well as Reaching Above Hopelessness and Bro- kenness Inc. (RAHAB), an Akron-based organization that operates safe houses for both adults and minors. In addition, Abolition works closely with UnChained Love (also an Old Brooklyn-based organization), and Ballenger has spent “quite a bit of time in Shaker High School doing human trafficking presentations.” Abolition Bakery also has an ongoing presence at the Old Brooklyn Farmers Market, where the stand regularly sells out.

Bouquets All Day So what’s next for Abolition Bakery after five years? Online ordering and a larger focus on cupcake bouquets. “I don’t do cakes because there are so many places that do cakes well in Cleveland,” says Ballenger. “The thing that I love to do most is make cupcake bouquets. I would like to see the website create more awareness of the bouquets because that is Abolition Bakery - cupcake bouquets something no one else in Cleveland currently is doing.” As far as where the funds from sales will continue to go, This article is part of the On the Ground - Old Brooklyn community re- Ballenger continues to assess where they are most needed. porting project in partnership with FreshWater Cleveland, Old Brooklyn Interested in placing an order with Abolition Bakery? Email Community Development Corporation, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Rita Ballenger at or visit the Facebook page to learn more. Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, Cleveland Development Advisors, and Cleveland Metropolitan School District.

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17 In memoriam Joseph Patrick Cannon February 26, 1924 - January 16, 2019 magine living in the house in which you were born For years Joe and a corps of similarly-minded for all but your time in the military and the last men carried a 16 x 32-foot banner with the Divine couple of years of your life. Mercy image in Cleveland’s St. Patrick’s Day parade Imagine for all of your life being an integral part of (and also in parades in other cities across the country.) Ithe church where you were baptized and attended grade One of the ways he financed these Cleveland Divine school. Mercy activities was through an annual fundraiser at Imagine having the honor of representing a major Massimo da Milano, a restaurant which was formerly part of the neighborhood in which you were raised as a located on W. 25th St. just south of Detroit Ave. Cleveland City councilman. With Margee Jacobs, Joe co-authored a book Those were some of the realities of Joseph P. Can- called The Son Reigns on My Parade, All the Time. It non’s amazing, almost 95 year life. began with a recounting of his visit to Medjugorje, Joe was the youngest of seven children born to Wil- Yugoslavia, and continued with the story of how he liam and Nora Murphy Cannon, both immigrants from became involved with Divine Mercy. He used dona- County Mayo, Ireland. The home where he spent his tions from the sale of that book to help finance the life was at 4405 Brooklyn Ave. and the church where he ministry, too. was baptized and attended school was Our Lady of Good Counsel Joe was very generous in his support of OLGC/MQP. While it (OLGC). Now known as Mary Queen of Peace (MQP), the parish was still OLGC he spearheaded a campaign to light the church’s bell is where Joe’s funeral was celebrated on January 21 of this year. tower so that it could become a beacon of light in Old Brooklyn. The A James Ford Rhodes High School graduate, after the bomb- twinkling star effect is achieved by Swarovski crystals and spot lights ing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Joe chose the Navy as inside the bell tower. the branch of the military in which to serve during World War II. Later when the OLGC congregation changed names and the Following the War and before beginning public service work in the new pastor was looking for donors to purchase statues of saints for 1970s, Joe worked as a travelling salesman for the Cannon Tailoring the church’s interior side walls, Joe provided funds for a lovely statue Company, a family business owned by one of his brothers. of St. Jude, who had long been one of his favorite saints. An era of rebirth in Old Brooklyn was just getting underway Joe also knew how to have fun. He liked to converse, he liked during Joe’s four terms as councilman. The once grand Broadvue to sing, he liked to dance, he liked belonging to the Seniors Group Theatre in the formerly bustling ‘downtown’ shopping district had at Mary Queen of Peace, and he liked eating breakfast on Saturday been replaced by an X-rated porn theater, but things started chang- mornings with a particular group of Old Brooklyn businessmen. He ing when some of the churches and businesses banded together to even threw himself a 90th birthday party at Mary Queen of Peace buy the theater. It was their way of getting pornography out of the five years ago and joked that it was the funeral he wouldn’t be able to neighborhood. attend. The birthday gifts he was hoping to receive were monetary Joe was always working on the spiritual issues in life, too. In donations for his Divine Mercy billboard project. the Cleveland area as well as across the country, he’s known for his One of the songs the bagpiper played at the end of Joe’s funeral dedication to the Divine Mercy devotion which had been revealed liturgy was the traditional Irish hymn Going Home. I might alter that to a Polish woman now known as St. Faustina Kowalska. Joe paid to a bit to ‘Going to his Ultimate Home’. Joe made himself at home have hundreds of billboards erected with the image of Christ as He’d wherever he was… and no doubt he is still conversing and singing appeared to Sister Faustina, the words, “, I trust in You” and a and dancing and eating at the heavenly banquet. toll-free phone number at which to reach him. He mailed literature Rest in peace, dear neighbor and friend, and thanks for the to whomever called. memories. -Lynette Filips

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For strong Air & Space Museum; Grimes thoseA who missed the previous articles, Field; and the National Museum of the the series began in March, 2017, with the United States Air Force. founding of the early National Parks out The Collection, Spe- West, and continued with the Cuyahoga Valley National Park between Cleveland cial Collections and Archives Library at The National Museum of the and Akron along the Cuyahoga River and Wright State University; the Woodland United States Air Force the Ohio and Erie Canal. Cemetery and Arboretum; the Greene The National Museum of the Unit- The David Berger National Memo- County Historical Society; and local visi- ed States Air Force (formerly the United rial in Beachwood and the James A. Gar- tor centers are other cooperating organiza- States Air Force Museum), 1100 Spaatz St., field National Historic Site in Mentor tions. In all, more than fifteen aviation-re- is located on the grounds of Wright-Patter- were the topics of the June, 2017 article. lated locations in Ohio are centered on the First Ladies National Historic son Air Force Base in what is now known The activities of the Wright Brothers. Site in downtown Canton and Perry’s Vic- as Wright- Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Armstrong Air & Space Museum tory and International Peace Memorial The It is near Fairborn, and six miles northeast on South Bass Island in Put-in-Bay were is located at 500 Apollo Dr. in Wapakone- of Dayton. It is the oldest and largest mil- the topics of the September, 2017 article. ta, Ohio (the birthplace of astronaut Neil itary aviation museum in the world and The three areas of the Fallen Timbers Armstrong). Among its most famous ex- has both interior and exterior exhibits fea- Battlefield and Fort Miami National hibits are the Gemini VIII space craft in turing over 360 aircraft and missiles. One Historic Site in Maumee-- Fallen Timbers which Armstrong and his partner Mark section of the museum is dedicated to pio- Battlefield, Fallen Timbers Monument and neers of flight, including Orville and Wil- Fort Miamis – which interprets negative bur Wright. A replica of the Wrights’ 1909 relationship issues between the incoming settlers to Ohio and the Native Americans, Military Flyer and other Wright Brothers were the topics of the March, 2018 article. artifacts are on display. The six areas of the Hopewell Culture Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., National Historical Park in the Scioto the Museum is one of Ohio’s most visited River Valley -- Mound City Group, Seip tourist sites. Both admission and parking Earthworks, Hopeton Earthworks, Hopewell are free. Visit its extensive website, www. Mound Group, High Bank Works and Spruce nationalmuseum.af.mil for more informa- Hill Earthworks -- were the topics of the The Armstrong Air & Space Museum tion. June, 2018 article. (High Bank Works is not Wright State University, 3640 Colo- open to the public.) Scott orbited the earth; lunar rocks which The Dayton Aviation Heritage Na- nel Glenn Hwy., was founded in 1964 as tional Historical Park was the topic of Armstrong and his Apollo 11 partner Buzz the Dayton campus of Miami University the September, 2018 article. Its focus is Aldrin brought back from the surface of and The Ohio State University. It became Wilbur and Orville Wright, the two young the moon; and Armstrong’s spacesuits from a State university in 1967, built on land men from Dayton who are credited with those two missions. Visit www.armstrong- inventing flight and like a few of the oth- museum.org for specific details about visit- er parks we’ve visited, it has multiple loca- ing this popular location. tions in and around Dayton: one Nation- Grimes Field, aka Urbana Munic- al Register Historic District -- the Hoover ipal Airport, is a city-owned, public use Block where the brothers had one of their airport located one mile north of Urbana, printing shops; and five National Historic Landmarks -- the Wright Cycle Company Ohio’s, central business district (in Cham- building, one of six which the brothers had paign County). It has two runways, one operated; the Flying Field with an asphalt surface and the other with at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base; the a grass surface. The airport is the home of 1905 III airplane at Carillon the Champaign Aviation Museum, which Orville and Wilbur Wright Park; the Wright home, ; houses B-25, C-47, Fairchild and Stinson and the (poet) Paul Lawrence Dunbar State planes, and also a project to rebuild a World deeded in part by Wright-Patterson Air Memorial. War II era B-17 heavy bomber called the Force Base. It lies within a mile of Huffman The more expansive, federally desig- Champaign Lady. See their website, www. Prairie, where Orville and Wilbur perfected National Aviation Heritage Area nated , grimesfield.org., or their Facebook page for their flying machines in 1904 and1905. which is also located in and around Day- more information about visiting. Cont’d on next page

20 The Wright Brothers Collection, Special Collections and campus. Founded in 1841, it is one of the nation’s five oldest rural Archives Library, Wright State University, is one of the most garden cemeteries, and is where Wilbur and Orville Wright are complete collections of Wright material in the world. It was deed- buried. Visitors to the grounds can also see the gravesites of poet ed to Wright State University in 1975 by the Wright Family; ad- Paul Laurence Dunbar, writer Erma Bombeck, inventor Charles ditional materials have been added to the collection. The online F. Kettering, National Cash Register founder John H. Patterson, collection inventory is divided into seven sections: (1) a technical Bicycles founder George P. Huffman, Mead founder library; (2) manuscripts; (3) photographs; (4) photographic al- George Mead, and Queen and King of the Gypsies Matilda and bums; (5) phonograph recordings and film; (6) awards and certif- Levi Stanley, among many others. icates; and (7) medals. A lovely escape within Dayton’s city limits, Woodland Ceme- In addition to the main Wright Brothers Collection, Special tery is similar in style to Cleveland’s Lakeview Cemetery; its chapel Collections and Archives has numerous other collections related also has a window designed by the Tiffany Studios. to the Wright Brothers, as well as two original Wright Brothers’ The Greene County Historical Society has a museum fea- propellers, which are located in their reading room. turing local history materials and artifacts at 74 W. Church St. in Not every single paper related to Orville and Wilbur Wright is Xenia. in Dayton, however. The We’ll be back in Xenia in our next issue, at the Charles Young Library of Congress got Buffalo Soldiers National Monument. I plan to finish this se- ‘first dibs’ on it after Or- ries then by also discussing two more NPS sites in Ohio – the ville died in 1948, but they North Country National Scenic Trail, which runs through many could only take so much. William Howard Taft National Historic Site The Wright family wanted counties, and the the rest of it to stay in Day- in Cincinnati. ton, in 1974 Wright State expressed their interest, and “the rest is history”. Lynette Filips has lived Woodland Cemetery about 50 years of her life in and Arboretum, 118 Old Brooklyn and writen for Woodland Ave., is just a the Old Brooklyn News for 29 of them. She’s most known bit south of downtown for her local history articles Dayton and adjacent to and The Town Crier and Wright Brothers graves the Stewart St. side of for her work as the former Woodland Cemetery the University of Dayton monthly OBN copy editor.

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21 Building a church family, one house at a time by Tricia Chaves

t 10:30 a.m. on September 2nd, Gateway Church Old from Louisville, KY-based Boyce College with his bride, an Ala- Brooklyn held the first service in its brand-new home bama native whom he met and married while studying ministry. at 4542 Pearl Rd. in a shared space with Unity Luther- Alongside their work at Gateway, the Losetos have spent the an Church (located on the southeast corner of Behr- last five summers repainting local homes and making light repairs waldA Ave). in partnership with Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation. It’s a true community effort—the CDC helps secure funding and identify residents in need; the volunteers are referred by a Christian organization called World Changers; and assistance is provided by local nonprofits Community Housing Solutions and the Clean & Green trailer. “[Old Brooklyn CDC] helps secure the funds through grants to help low-income, disabled, and senior homeowners, and then we provide all the labor free of charge,” explains Loseto. All of the work is increasingly interconnected—two house- holds became members of the Gateway Church Old Brooklyn family after receiving help with home repairs. Loseto provided an extra layer of support by connecting them to other members of Tony and Beth Loseto the congregation who could help with transportation to and from services. As he applies the final coats of paint in preparation of the Cont’d on next page parish’s opening day, pastor Tony Loseto is pausing to reflect on the past five years spent church planting with his wife Beth in the west side neighborhood. Loseto led the church’s first official service on January 18, 2015, with a group of 20 people inside the Rhodes High School auditorium; today the congregation has tripled to include about 60 members. Independent of any denominational control, the church is affiliated with the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio, Southern Baptist Convention, and Cleveland Hope. A converted Catholic who grew up attending St. Leo the Great, Loseto was raised in Parma by Old Brooklyn-bred parents. “My father immigrated from Italy to Ralph Ave., my mother—a Rhodes alumna—grew up on West 52nd Street. I began planning to do work in the Old Brooklyn area before graduation because I was familiar with the area,” the pastor recounts of his 2013 return Losetos have spent the last five summers repainting local homes and making light repairs in partnership with Old Brooklyn CDC.

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22 “A lot of people in our neighborhood don’t have a vehicle, and It’s all we’re hopeful that, as the church grows, we’ll be able to offer regular part of a shuttle transportation to anyone who needs it,” he says. simple yet Block party at Estabrook powerful Eager to plant roots in the church’s new space that will include concept a gym, fellowship hall, and office, Loseto and his wife are already that drives planning new programs—such as Gateway Game Night, a month- Loseto and ly all-ages activity gathering with food, fellowship, basketball, and the Gate- board games. The church's grand opening celebration will coincide way Church with the fifth annual harvest festival in October. Old Brook- "We enjoy being out in the community, but the new loca- lyn: “We tion will allow us to do some more regular ministries in the church really be- building,” he says. "[However,] we still want to do some of our lieve part of Community sports camps programs and outreach at Estabrook Recreation Center." the Christian The couple holds bible studies in their Old Brooklyn home on faith is living out your faith with other Christians.” Sunday and Wednesday evenings, and inclusiveness is a priority. A podcast of each sermon is available on the Gateway Church “At Sunday night bible study, we have four people who speak Span- Old Brooklyn website. ish—two of them are bilingual, so we translate as we go,” shares This article is part of the On the Ground - Old Brooklyn community re- Loseto. “It’s been great for our English speakers, too, enabling them porting project in partnership with FreshWater Cleveland, Old Brooklyn to interact people who aren’t like them. We’re able to bring a lot of Community Development Corporation, Greater Cleveland Partnership, different people together who have Jesus in common.” Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, Cleveland Development Advisors, and Cleveland Metropolitan School District.

Sports camps Tricia Chaves is a ‘hair raising reporter’ who splits her time between writing and her Thousand Locks Offerings are rounded out by community sports camps for kids Charity project to increase awareness about hair do- and quarterly neighborhood “block party” events with free food, nation among stylists and improve the availability of crafts, and bounce house entertainment—all meant to foster a spirit free wigs for women and kids with cancer. A former style and beauty editor, these days she’s more likely to of fraternity, regardless of faith. Most recently, 150 backpacks filled be wearing her toddler on her back than makeup on with school supplies were distributed to attendees, and a barbershop her face. You can follow the adventures of her foodie staff was able to coiff more than 30 students in time for school. family at Planes, Trains and All of Our Meals.

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23 Church Notes Christ Church Rummage Sale - Fri., May 3, 9 am. - 4 //: Stations of St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church 6400 Memphis Ave pm. Sat. May 4, 10 am. - 2 pm. the Cross - every Fri. 7pm., Diocesan 4600 State Rd. 216-741-7979 440-236-8282 christchurchohio.org Evening of Confession - March 20, Preschool & Pre-K - Partime & Full- Christ Church is a contemporary, non- St. Barbara Church 5 - 8 pm. Parish Mission - Mar. 25 - time classes for 3 & 4 yr. olds. Extend- denominational, Bible based church. 1505 Denison Ave. 216-661-1191 27, 7 - 8 pm. Speakers - Philip Keller ed care available. Registration fee $50. Sunday Service: 9:30 & 11 am. Kid’s Ash Wed.- Mar. 6, Mass & imposition from Blind Faith, Robby’s Voice, David County vouchers accepted. The curric- Programs: Nursery thru 8th grade; of ashes, 7:30 am (English), 5 pm (Pol- Petrovic. ulum we follow is by the Catholic Di- Lord’s Supper service 1st Sun. of the ish), 7 pm (English). Pancake Breakfast - April 14 - 9 am. ocese of Cleveland. Licensed under the month 9:30 a.m. service. - 1 pm. Ohio State Department of Education. Lenten Series on Eastern Christians Call 216-350-8121. Gateway Church Old Brooklyn and Their Faith – Fr. Joseph Hilinski Holy Thursday - April 18 - 7:30 am. 4542 Pearl Rd. presents 3 Wed. talks Mar.13 & 27, & Morning Prayer. 7 pm. Mass of the Unity Evangelical Lutheran Church www.gatewaychurcholdbrooklyn.com April 10. Mass 7 pm., lecture 7:30 pm. Lord’s Supper 4542 Pearl Rd at Behrwald Ave. Easter -Stravaganza - Sat., Apr. 13; Serra Club, Lenten Reflection with -April 19 - 7:30 am. 216-741-2085 1-3 pm. Food, fun, & egg decorating. Bishop Martin Amos Sat. Mar 30 Morning Prayer, 12 Noon Passion Play, Sun. Worship - every Sun; 9:30 am or 7 Good Friday Service - April 19, 6:30pm. - , , morning prayer 9:30 am, Mass 10 am, 3 pm. Solemn Celebration of the Lord’s pm. Bible Study - each Wed. 4:30 pm. Immanuel Lutheran Church Talk by Bishop Amos 11 am. Passion; 7 pm. Stations of the Cross. Weds in Lent - 7 pm. Worship service. 2928 Scranton Road - April 20 - 7:30 am Holy Week - Divine Stations of the Cross - Mar. 8 – Apr. Morning prayer; 12 Noon Blessing of service with holy communion 7 pm; 216-781-9511 19, 7 pm, every Friday during Lent. German & English Mass - each Sun- food; 7:30 pm . Good Friday service 7 pm; Easter Sunday day. German - 9 am. E​ nglish - 10:30 Evening of Confession - Mar 20, 5- 8 pm. - April 21 - 8, 9:30 & Easter Sunday worship service 9:30 am. am. All are welcome! 11 am. Masses. Easter Sunday 6:45 am Holy Thursday- April 18, Mass 7 pm. Fish Dinners - Fri, Mar. 8, 15, 22, 29t, by the Columbarium in Lutheran Cem- etery, 4566 Pearl Rd. Mary Queen of Peace Good Friday - Apr. 19, Sacrament of April 5 & 12, 4:30 - 7 pm. with dine-in 4423 Pearl Rd. 216-749-2323 Penance Noon-1 pm; Solemn Reading or take-out. Soup, kids meals & weekly Fish Fry Dinners - Fri. March 8, 15, of the Passion 3 pm. Confessions after specials. Call for more info. 22, 29; April 5, 12; 4:30 - 7 pm. Din- Stations of the Cross. ners $8 - $9. Parish Center cafeteria. Holy Saturday -- Apr. 20, Blessing of Cash Bonanza Pancake Breakfast - St. Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church Easter foods 1 pm., Mass for Great Vigil 4644 Pearl Rd. 216-749-3545 Pastor Joseph Colini Sun. March 10 & 31; April 28; 9:30 of Easter 8:30 pm. am to 12:30 pm. $5 for Cash Bonanza Sunday Service - 10 am. 4316 Pearl Rd ticket + free breakfast. Easter Sunday- Apr. 21, Mass 9 am En- Bible Studies: Miller Hall glish, 11 am Polish. Sun. - 8:45 am. (free coffee) 216-772-8337 Mobile Food Pantry - Sat., Mar. 16; Wed. - 6:30 pm. Service Times: Apr. 20; May 18. Free produce - 9 - 11 St. James Lutheran Church Men’s Bible study - 2nd & 4th Sat. ursday: 7 p.m. Sunday: 11a.m. am. Garages behind rectory. 4771 Broadview Rd. 216-351-6499 8:45 am. Free Community Meal - Sun. Mar. 17; Lenten Worship Services - March 6, oldbrooklynchristianchurch.org Apr. 21; May 19; 1 pm. Parish Center 13, 20, 27, April 3 & 10; 10:30 am. & cafeteria. 7 pm. April 18th Maundy Thursday services, 10:30 am & 7:30 pm. April Duquesne University Choir - Concert 19. Good Friday services Noon & 7:30 - Sun. March 24; 4 pm. Free. pm. Easter service April 21, 10:15 am. News & Events LEAF - Meeting for Families of loved 50 Plus Group - meets 3rd Wed. of the Old Brooklyn CDC Online Store - your birth certificate. To save time, ones who are incarcerated. Wed. March month, noon. Mar. 20; Apr. 16 & May purchase t-shirts, sweatshirts, hood- go to website & fill out the registra- 27; April 24; May 22; 7 pm. Lower 21. Lunch provided for a $3 donation, ies, maps, a ceramic mug, poster or tion form & bring it in or register on Church. games to follow. Everyone 50 & over the new Old Brooklyn flag. Visit line at www.OBALL.org. welcome. Lenten Parish Mission - Sun. April 7; oldbrooklyn.com & click on the * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon. 8; Tues. 9; Wed. 10; 7 pm. A Bible study is offered prior to the 50 OB Shop tab at the top of the page Spay & Neuter Assistance Simple Soup Supper 6:15 pm. Plus meetings at 10:30 am. No Mar. or call 216-459-1000 or stop in at through Nov.- Valley Save-A-Pet meeting. Bible Study - every Wed. eve- 2339 Broadview Rd. low cost spay/neuter. 26 veteri- Breakfast - Sat. April ning - 101, 7 pm. Men’s 13; 9 - 11 am. Parish Center Cafeteria. Bible Study - every Sat. morning, 8:30 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * narian joined in to help. Also, the Easter Masses - Sat. April 20; 7:30 pm; am. Adult Bible Study - Sun; 9 am. Benjamin Franklin Community veterinarians have discounted the Sun. April 21; 6:45; 8:30 & 11 am. Garden Plots - Now accepting cost of the first rabies & distemper Worship Services - Sat.; 5 pm. & Sun.; - Sun. April 28; 10:15 am. names for the 2019 waiting list. vaccines at the time of spay/neuter. Confessions 1 pm; Mass at 2:30 pm. Sunday School - 9 am. Plot sizes are 20’×25’ for $45 or Mon. & Thurs. 11 am. - 2 pm. For Reverse Raffle - Sat. May 11; 6 pm. a half plot 12’×20’ for $25. Call more info call 440-232-2287 or go Tickets $35 include dinner, beer & St. Leo The Great Church Sandy 216-459-1000 at Old to www.valleysaveapet.org. chance to win $1000. 4940 Broadview Rd. 216-661-1006 Brooklyn Community Develop- * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mass Schedule - Sat. 4 pm, Sun. 8 & ment to be put on the list. Buzzard Day - Sun., March 17 - Pearl Road UMC 11am. Weekday - Mon. - Thurs. - 7:30 am; Fri. - 8:30 am. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Hinckley Reservation Buzzard 4200 Pearl Rd. 216-661-5642 O.B.A.L.L. Sign-Ups - Two loca- Roost, corner of State Rd. & West Easter Worship Service - Sun., April Confession - Sat. - 2:45 - 3:30 pm. 21, 10am. tions: St. Mark’s Lutheran School Drive. 9 am. - 2:30 pm. The event Gym, 4464 Pearl Rd., Sat., March includes an early bird hike; skits, Pastor 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30. 9 am. - 12 pm. songs & stories performed in tents Lawanna Porter Tremont Location – PLAV Post or in fields, displays, crafts, pho- 30, 1041 Starkweather Ave. Sat., tos, contests & additional hikes. March 2, 9, 23 & 30. 4:30 - 6:30 Call 330-278-2066 for more info. pm., across from Lincoln Park. $55 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sunday worship: 12 noon TBall (4-6 yrs old) $65 PeeWee (7-9 World Water Day Celebration Wednesday night prayer: 7 pm. yrs old), Little F (10-12 yrs old), Big – Sat., March 23; noon – 4 pm. Contending For The Faith Training F (13-15 yrs old), Girls Fast Pitch West Creek Conservancy, 2277 (Bible Study) 7:30 pm. (12U & 14U) (family discount W. Ridgewood Dr. Try traditional 4840 State Rd. 216-317-2265 offered for more than one child) crafts, listen to folk music, & enjoy [email protected] Bring: wallet size picture & a copy of ethnic food tastings. Free wagon

24 Classified APPLIANCE REPAIR GUTTERS LANDSCAPING LANDSCAPING 216 - M 741-4334 CHRIS – ISH’S LAWN CARE HEDGEMAN TRIMMING etro MONDE HOME SERVICES A ppliance Grass cutting, weed trimming, IMPROVEMENT edging, fertilizing, R snow removal. For All Your Trimming Needs epair Seamless gutters / gutter Prices starting @$20 We provide the following services S ervice toppers. Tree removal services available ACTIVE Call John, 216-906-1448. Free estimates MILITARY We also off er: LESS Seasonal clean-up, Hedge trimming, Weeding, COSTLY SENIOR Mulching, Light landscaping REPAIRS DISCOUNTS Senior &Veteran Low cost HELP WANTED discounts FOR SPRING CLEAN-UP Call: 440-667-5799 Call Joe at 216-906-1963 Part Time Driver Needed BANKS Municipality looking for driver to transport senior citizens in local PAINTING area. Must have clean driving record and be 21 years or older. MAKKOS Memphis-Fulton Office Hourly rate PAINTING & DECORATING Call: Thea 216-739-3702 for details. Interior and Exterior 4140 Fulton Road, *Stones *Shrubs *Edging lCeiling & Drywall repairs lStaining Cleveland, OH 44144. Application: www.brooklynhts.org/ *Perennials *Free Estimates lCeiling texturing lFaux fi nishes Phone: 216-749-6900 en-US/Employment-Opportunities. *Light Tree Work Fax: 216-459-8072 aspx. Mail to: Community Services *Mulch / Top Soil [email protected]. 233 Tuxedo Ave. *Low Voltage Lighting Quality work guaranteed Free estimates, Insured. NMLS#580281 Brooklyn Hts. 44131 *Clean-ups Cell: 216-402-2861 Call: Jeff Makkos 440-625-0718 BASEBALL JAZZERCISE

2019 “FREE WEEK PASS” Registration will 5:30 pm. classes Mon thru Thurs. be held Saturdays in March Saturdays 9 am., Sundays at Noon Brooklyn Recreation Center For more information, visit our 7600 Memphis Ave. Brooklyn 44144 website at: www.OBALL.org You do not have to be a resident (see News & Events page 24) or a member of the Rec Have FUN this summer playing More info: Contact Marisa Little League Baseball with OBALL 216-408-2969 or [email protected]

& Events Supporting neighborhoods, Ohio 18yrs. & under free. Public wel- 9 am - noon. Ohio’s largest done- City, Tremont & Hingetown. Lolly come. NO b.y.o.b, Food & bever- in-a-day cleanup effort. Volunteers ages available. For more information rides & parking shuttle provided. the Trolley free rides from 2 - 8 pm. must sign a waiver before they par- or table reservations of 8 or more: Call 440-887-1968 for more info. Go to ClevelandDyngus.com for ticipate, Children under the age more info. Call Elaine 216-496-0223. Go to of 16 must have the waiver signed * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * www.cpapolkas.com for more info.* Benjamin Franklin Community * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * by an adult. Call Bob Gardin Big The Old Brooklyn Golf League - * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Creek Connects at 216-269-6472 Garden Fundraiser - Sat., Apr. Retro American Glass Show & Sale 6; 5:30 - 9 pm. Sachsenhiem Hall, Start date April 28th; 9 am. Sene- or [email protected] ca golf course. Now accepting sign Sat., May 4, 10 am. - 5 pm. & Sun., or canalwaypartners.com to register 7001 Denison Ave. Tickets $25: May 5, 10 am. - 4 pm. St. Mary’s includes all you can eat appetizer up’s for our 9 hole. 21 & over Sun- or for more info. day morning men’s league. $60, Crystal Chalet, 3600 Biddulph Ave. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * buffet, beer & wine. Cash bar for Antique & vintage glass, & hard liquor. Door prizes, raffles. 20 week season. For more info. Class of 1969 50th Class Reunion www.oldbrooklyngolfleague.com china for sale. Admission $6 good James Ford Rhodes High School For tickets call Greg at 216-789- for both days. Free for 30 yrs. & un- 2086 or at OBCDC office, 2339 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * - Sat., June 22; 6pm. - 12 am. Cleveland Polka & United States der w/ID. Free glass identification, Carrie Cerino’s Ristorante & Party Broadview Rd. See ad on page 4. seminars, Betty bingo & prizes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Polka Associations Joint Dance - Center, 8922 Ridge Rd. Buffet din- Sun., April 28. Holy Spirit Party * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ner$55 per person, cash bar. RSVP Dyngus Day - Mon., April 22, 10 RiverSweep 2019 - Sat. May 11 - Center, 5500 W. 54th St. Doors by May 1 to [email protected]. am. - 9:30 pm. Locations: Gordon Big Creek/Lower Harvard: Meet at Square on Detroit Ave. & W. 58th – open 2 pm, Music 3 - 7 pm. Mu- For more info. go to www.rhodes- sic by The Project. Donation $13, The Sand Bar, 4002 Jennings Rd. 1969reunion.com for more info.

25 Community Meetings

Big Creek Connects - if you have Meeting - Wed., May 29 7pm., the Brooklyn Fire Station Commu- Memberships are $5 yearly. Speaker: interest in or concerns about preserv- Chuck Klein, “Building of nity Rm, 8400 Memphis Ave. For Fri., March 8, 7 pm.“The Vehicles

ing greenspace, improving conditions the Terminal Tower”. more info: laurelgardenclub.org of the Western Reserve” presented of Big Creek & the natural environ- Spring Quilt Raffle“Good - Morning by a Western Reserve Historical So- ment, & improved quality of life for Grindstone Knitters’s Guild - Meet Sunshine”, Hand-quilted hand-ap- ciety’s representative. For questions our residents. Contact info@bigcreek- third Tues. of the month. Mahler pliquéd quilt. or more info. call president, Con- connects.org to be notified of future Museum, 118 E. Bridge St. Berea, 7 Call Barb 216-941-0160 or email: stance Ewazen at 216-398-8969 or events. pm. For more info grindstoneknitters. [email protected] for wordpress.com the museum at 216-337-8200. Brooklyn-Cleveland Kiwanis - more info. Old Brooklyn Crime Watch - If 2nd District Police Community meeting every Tues., noon - 1:30 Relations every second Cuyahoga Valley Genealogy - first interested in starting a crime watch/ meetings- pm, Golden Corral, 8676 Brook- Tues., 7 pm, Applewood Center, Mon. of the month. block club, call Barb Spaan, 459- park Rd. 3518 W. 25th St. March 4, “Slovak Research Strategies” 1000 for more info. Brooklyn Genealogy Club Meet- Presented by: Joe Monsman. Southwest Citizens Area Council ings - third Sun. of the month; 2 pm. Old Brooklyn Families Group April 1, “Genealogy on Your Mobile meetings - every first Thurs., 7 pm, Brooklyn Public Library, 4480 Ridge meetings - Dina’s Pizza & Pub, 5701 Device” Gino’s, 1314 Denison Ave. Rd. March 17, “You Only Have a Presented by: Roger Marble. Memphis Ave. 6:30 - 8 pm. Every Death Announcement”: NowWhat? May 6, “Until Death Do Us Part: first Tues., of the month. Ward 12 Democratic Club meetings April 21, “Diggin for Historical An Examination of Marriage & The Polish Genealogical Society - every third Wed.; 7:30 pm. Gino’s Records on Family Search. May 19, Divorce Records of the 1800’s” Pre- of Greater Cleveland - St. Mary’s 1314 Denison Ave. Contact BGC Secretary Sue Hill, 440- sented by Tom Neel. Polish National Church Parish Hall, 865-0402, for more info. All meetings 7 pm. Independence Western Reserve American Glass 5375 Broadview Rd. Meetings are Club meetings - first Mon. of the Civic Center, Willow Rd., 6363 Selig Brooklyn Historical Society Meet- held on the first Tues. of the month, month. Crystal Chalet, 3600 Bid- ings - Welcome spring luncheon - Blvd. Call President Bobbi Hamm 7:30 pm., during the months of dulph Rd. 7 pm. Glass topic discussion, Tues., March 26., noon, members 330-225-0890 or cuyahogagenealogy. Mar., Apr. May, Jun., Sept., Oct., snacks, raffle, a library, glass ID table, luncheon. org for more dates & topics. Nov., & Dec. items for sale & more. Email wrag- Meeting - Wed., April 24 7pm., [email protected] or call 440-799-1618 Speaker: Rebecca McFarland, “Early Laurel Garden Club - meetings The Historical Society of Old for more info. Breweries of Cleveland” are on the 2nd Tues., of the month- Brooklyn - Pearl Road United March - May & Sept. - Dec. 7 pm, at Methodist Church, 4200 Pearl Rd.

Developing a passion for Jesus, Learning, and the Arts Preschool–Grade 8

CHRIST-CENTERED —incorporating a Biblical worldview in all core areas. COLLEGE PREP—blending a rigorous college preparatory program with 21st century technology and career readiness skills. ARTS FOCUS—incorporating the arts—music, visual Come be a part of our and creative art instruction, orchestra and drama—into the daily lives of our students, helping them realize school family! the importance of their God-given talents. Call the school office at 216-749-5300 Thanks to the Cleveland scholarship, most families to schedule a tour for enrollment for are able to attend with no out-of-pocket tuition costs. the 2018-19 school year.

Luther Memorial—Main Campus Luther Memorial—West Campus 4464 Pearl Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109 12826 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44109

26 center. Read the separate article about this in Tbilisi, Georgia in Eurasia. I said that exciting, world-renowned addition to our I’d keep you posted on his new life there, neighborhood on page 8. And if you’re an working as Director of Management & Op- Old Brooklyn business owner, you might eration. Here is a compilation of some of meet some of the Angels’ parents on Sat- the things he wrote in answer to my ques- urdays because they’ve been given a list of tions -- neighborhood establishments to visit while I live in a spacious three-bedroom apart- their children are rehearsing. ment in the center of town right next to the While I’m on the subject of neighbor- main Central Park. It’s a modern 19-story hood businesses, I’d like to document that apartment building. I live a 15 - 20 min- last August, Pearl Road Auto Wrecking, ute bus ride from work, or a 40 minute walk. 5000 Pearl Rd., officially changed owner- (I’ve done the walk several times.) I don’t have ship. The business had been in the Kaplan a vehicle yet, but I expect to get one by spring. family for 91 years, established by Jacob and Right now I’m taking buses. They also have Rose Kaplan in 1927. Their son Joseph op- a minivan system of transportation, plus their erated it after they retired, and since 1971, version of Uber/Lyft. I can get anywhere in nother winter is almost behind Joseph’s son Myron has been at the helm. the city for as low as $.20 on the bus, and us! The polar vortex has come Although Myron has three sons -- Michael, $3-4 in Georgian Lari (the currency). and gone, and at least so far, just Kevin and John -- none of them wanted to The central city and capital, Tbilisi, is once. Although I know a lot of deal with the business end of things, and pretty congested and sometimes the air quality peopleA who had upper respiratory viruses, Myron didn’t want to deal with it anymore, is not good. (It helps that I have a big green I don’t know anyone who got the ‘real’ flu either. (He loves the work itself, however space next-door.) The weather has been tem- this year. (Maybe the Center for Disease and is still there every day.) perate, about 5 to 7° warmer than Cleveland, Control got the virus strains in the flu shot Ali Lotfi, who also owns Buck- so similar except that we’ve had no snow this right this time.) And whether or not the eye-Woodland Auto Wrecking, is Pearl winter. People work very hard to keep Tbilisi groundhog saw his shadow on February 2 Road Auto Wrecking’s new owner; he di- clean. Older men and women are employed to doesn’t make a bit of difference about how vides his time between his two locations. sweep the streets and sidewalks. long winter is going to last anyway. After all Ali, too, has sons working with him in I’ve been outside the city several times; the these years I’ve learned that it was just a leg- the business – Raheem at Pearl Road and main roads and freeways systems are good and end about badgers (not groundhogs) which Ameer at Buckeye-Woodland. He’s filled the countryside is beautiful -- mountainous some of the immigrants from Eastern Eu- up the yard with lots of cars and is keeping with a lot of rivers. Because of the mountains, rope brought with them to this country. the former hours – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon- their ski resorts are only two to three hours What changes in the neighborhood day through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Satur- away from Tbilisi and have a lot of snow. The have occurred during these three winter day, and closed Sunday. geography and weather are very diverse! There months? Driving around Old Brooklyn, Moving on to artier news, I stopped by are even palm trees in the warmer climate on the happiest change I’ve noticed is visible St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church to the Black Sea. from both Pearl and State roads. It’s the ask Fr. Marek Visnovsky if he’ll be teaching My typical day is getting to work by 8:30 former Greater Cleveland Regional Tran- another icon painting class this Lent and he or 9 a.m. and sometimes working as late as 6 sit Authority’s bus garages starting to look is not, at least not in Cleveland. This year to 8 p.m. The government shutdown did not like the artist’s rendition of the new MCPc he’ll be teaching icon painting in Ann Ar- affect us too badly; the Peace Corps diverted Security Operations Center which we’d bor, Michigan, for a week. resources to ensure that the overseas operations pictured on the cover of the Fall 2018 issue Aspiring painters still have another were not impacted significantly. of the Old Brooklyn News magazine. That local option to connect with their creative I’m doing a lot of cooking but I eat out green color really pops out! side, however – the painting classes which occasionally with friends from the embas- In case you missed the original article, Michael Gutierrez sponsors at his 2020 sy. Georgian food is really delicious -- great the Secure Technology Asset Disposition Gallery at 2020 W. Schaaf Rd. He brings fresh breads, interesting salads and some very site will be used to bring in old electronic in an artist who, over the course of four ses- unique combinations like walnuts and wal- devices, remove the data from them, and sions, guides the students toward creating a nut paste mixed with things like pomegranates depending on the data, destroy all or part painting with a specific theme. and eggplant. They have excellent wines and of the devices. Whatever remains will be Michael is also having fun showcasing brandies at great prices. recycled, redeployed or resold. different artists in his studio, including an For fun I’ve also been out to hear local The saddest change I’ve noticed is the artist from Old Brooklyn, Jonny Stoker, music, and to the opera, and I’ve been walking ‘For sale’ sign in front of the short-lived who’s never exhibited his work in this kind around the old town to get to know my new City Diner on Memphis Ave. Apparently of venue before. Jonny has been working city. For Christmas I attended church -- there the owner of the building and the restauran- for Nunzio’s Pizza for the past fifteen years, are two Catholic churches in Tbilisi -- and teur could not reconcile their differences. which proves that there’s an artist inside then on Orthodox Christmas I went to an Or- Another very happy change which peo- each of us who is trying to escape and ex- thodox church which was very interesting. ple aren’t yet able to notice without some- press himself/herself! It will be summer when the next quar- one telling them about it is the new tenant My last entry in this column in our terly Town Crier comes out! Email your sug- on the first floor of the former Producers Winter 2018 edition was about Mapledale gestions for it to: [email protected], Dairy office building on State Rd. The Ave. resident (and former City of Cleveland or snail mail them to: Lynette Filips, c/o Singing Angels are now operating and re- Ward 14 Councilman and OBCDC exec- Old Brooklyn Community Development hearsing just north of St. Mary’s Byzantine utive director) Brian Cummins’ having Corporation, 2339 Broadview Rd., Cleve- Catholic Church’s Crystal Chalet party accepted a position with the Peace Corps land, 44109.

27

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