PHOTO BY CHUCK HOVEN Standard Presorted Friday, June 14, 2019; LGBT Community Center of U.S. POSTAGE PAID Greater Cleveland Ribbon Cutting and Community Open CLEVELAND, OHIO House, 6705 Detroit Avenue: LBGT Community Center PERMIT 1354 of Greater Cleveland Executive Director Phyllis S. Harris FREE invited members of allied organizations to join with her saying “we make progress by connecting to people.” Vol. 46, No. 7 July 2019 PPlainlain PPressress CCleveland’sleveland’s NearNear WestsideWestside NNewspaperewspaper LGBT Community Center opens new facility on Detroit Avenue by Chuck Hoven while supporters, staff and board members of the board and staff, “an The Lesbian Gay Bisexual Trans- members fi lled the sidewalk around angel donor”, and the architectural gender (LGBT) Community Center the new building. fi rm and crew that designed and built of Greater Cleveland celebrated the The fi rst of a series of speakers, the new center. Sferra said the new opening of its new facility at 6705 Bob Sferra, President of the Board facility means new programs in a Detroit Avenue on June 14th with a of Directors of the LGBT Commu- bigger and better location. “We are ribbon cutting ceremony and open nity Center of Greater Cleveland, fi nally up and out,” he said. house. LGBT Community Center thanked all who contributed to Architect David Thal of Weber volunteers lined the sidewalk in front making the new center possible. Murphy and Fox described the new of the Center holding colorful fl ags Sferra specifi cally thanked individual building he designed saying it “ab- solutely compliments the mission of the center. The community center is for all of you.” Bryan Bowser, former board president of the LGBT Community Center, spoke of the effort and the generous donations that made it possible to open the new center with zero debt and with a $1 million plus endowment on hand. He urged those present to fi ll the new space with “your ideas” and “amazing programming.” He spoke of the 44- year history of the LBGT Community Center of Greater Cleveland and the many years ahead saying the efforts of those involved in creating this new facility “are gifting to the Greater Cleveland community this space, and all our great energy and mojo.” Bowser urged all LGBTQ people here in Cleveland, their friends and allies, and all of the community to PHOTO BY CHUCK HOVEN th continue to support and be involved Friday, June 14, 2019; Farm in the City, Halloran Park, 3550 W. 117 with the center to “make it a vibrant Street: Aleshka Rodriguez, age 2, and Love Rodriguez, age 4, are a place.” little wary as they pose with Party Pals Farm’s ball python, Hercules, State Representative Michael and Blanca Carrasquillo who is holding him. The Farm in the City event was sponsored by Westown Community Development Corporation, ccontinuedontinued oonn ppageage 4 Ward 11 Council Member Dona Brady and Cuyahoga Arts and Culture. Riverview Welcome Center opens with a vision of building community

by Colin Murnan at the soft opening of the Riverview community together. And the build- “I noticed that Riverview Towers Welcome Center on June 19th. ing hasn’t been utilized in a while has a community building,” Delores Proctor went on to say, “I know . . . I would love to see something PHOTO BY CHUCK HOVEN Procter, part of the Benjamin Rose back in the day, they used to do done with that building, you know Friday, June 14, 2019; Walkabout Tremont, Professor Avenue at Jeffer- Institute staff at Riverview Towers in parties. They could rent it out to the that’s going to help the community. son Avenue: Volunteers for City Dogs, a program of Cleveland Animal Ohio City, said in a video produced residents, AA meetings, NA meet- It really would.” Care and Control, brought dogs from the Cleveland City Kennel that by architect and videographer Clif- ings, bridal showers. You know it Social architect Malaz Elgemiab- are awaiting adoption to a new home. Volunteer Nina Sobel holds onto ford Benjamin Herring and shown was just something that brought the Jelly Bean, a dog ready for adoption. ccontinuedontinued oonn ppageage 8 Optometrist, Dr. Daniel Freson, is being forced out of MRN Ltd. owned United Bank Building by Bruce Checefsky Dr. Daniel Freson wants to help dealt with when they got around to people. it. Until then, I was on a month-to- His optometrist practice has been month lease.” at the same location on the first According to Crain’s Cleveland fl oor of the United Bank Building at Business journal, MRN Ltd bought 2012 W. 25th Street for more than the United Bank Building in 2008. thirty-seven years. With the W. Earlier this year, the company 25th – Ohio City Rapid Station and announced that it planned to open Greater Cleveland RTA bus service new apartments called Market for the 22, 51-A-B_C across the District Lofts in the 1925-vintage street from his offi ces, the location offi ce building. The suites at United is ideal for his clients--many of which Bank Building include studios and depend on public transportation. one-bedrooms ranging from 484 to But that’s about to change. MRN, 916 square feet in size. Rents range Ltd, a family owned real estate from $870 to $1,375 monthly. Development Company based in The nine-story, $1.5 million United Cleveland and owner of the United Bank Building opened in 1925 as Bank Building, is refusing to renew the tallest and largest commercial his lease. building on Cleveland’s west side. “When I fi rst starting renting, I It was one of the last of a series of had several three-year terms. After classical bank buildings constructed that, I had fi ve-year terms. I never in Cleveland during the 1910s and received a notice that my lease had 1920s, a golden age for the city’s expired in April 2018. I was placed banking industry. The Cleveland architecture fi rm on month-to-month. When I called PHOTO BY CHUCK HOVEN Walker and Weeks designed the about renewing my lease this spring, Friday, June 14, 2019; Walkabout Tremont, Professor Avenue at College Avenue in front of St. John Cantius MRN Ltd told me that I would be ccontinuedontinued oonn ppageage 5 Catholic Church: Dancers from Steve Popernack Production’s Tribe Osteara perform a Tribal Belly Dance. 2 Plain Press • July 2019 ARTS/MUSIC/THEATRE THE CLEVELAND SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL: Shakespeare in the Park with Henry V directed by Kelly Elliott, Saturday, July 6th at 7 p.m. Lincoln Park in the Tremont neighborhood. Free. For more information visit cleveshakes.org. CLEVELAND PUBLIC THEATRE’S STUDENT ENRICHMENT PROGRAM AT HERMAN PARK, W. 59th and Herman Avenue, Opening Performance Friday, July 26 at 7 p.m. Free. Rain Location: Cleveland Public Theatre, 6415 Detroit Avenue. OUTPRINT/INPRINT: What does digni- ty mean? A project created by JR which features photographs of over 260,000 people from around the world by trans- The Plain Press Community Board is a listing of a variety of free activities and resourc- forming messages of personal identity es for neighborhoods served by the Plain Press. The printing of the Community Board into works of public art. Malaz Elgemi- is sponsored by Organize! Ohio through donations from readers and supporters. abby, a Sudanese community architect will perform dance and commentary to p.m. at the Breen Center 2008 W. 30th. now living in Cleveland, is working with music that demonstrates the power and FESTIVALS community members to create a display beauty of integrated dancers in wheel EDGEWATER STREET FEST: Sun- of photos of local individuals to be part chairs. After the performance children day, June 30, Noon – 7 p.m. on Clifton of this international effort. Community will be invited to create a craft related to Boulevard. Family friendly festival with members were also given disposable the theme of the stories. Friday June 28, live music, art workshops, local vendors cameras to take photos exploring the 1-3 p.m. Rain Date: July 19, 1-3:30 p.m. and more. meaning of dignity. Photos of members CLEVELAND ASSOCIATION OF EDGEWATER LIVE: Free concert series of the community will be displayed on the BLACK STORYTELLERS: Positive with live music, food trucks, volleyball exterior walls of the new Riverview Wel- stories and interactive songs for children and entertainment at Edgewater Park. come Center. Opening will be on August to receive information, learn and be en- Every Thursday (except when it rains) 1, 2019, from Noon to 6 p.m. at Riverview tertained. Children attending the event from 4:30 – 9 p.m. thru August 1st. Welcome Center, 1701 W. 25th. will be invited to create a craft related to OUR LADY OF MT. CARMEL ITALIAN PHOTO BY CHUCK HOVEN OHIO CITY STAGES: The Cleveland the theme of the stories. Halloran Park, FESTIVAL: Wednesday, July 10 thru Friday, June 14, 2019; Undesign the Red Line Interactive Exhibit, Aspen Museum of Art’s Ohio City Stages is back 3550 W. 117th Street, Friday July12 from Sunday July 14, Our Lady of Mount Place, 6016 Lorain Avenue: Detroit Shoreway Community Development for its 7th year this July! Bring a blanket, 2-3:30 p.m. Rain date: Friday, July 26, Carmel Church, 6928 Detroit Avenue. Organization (DSCDO) Safety and Community Engagement Coordina- a neighbor, and some snacks to the 2-3:30 p.m. Italian Food, Games, Music, Rides, tor Jeremy Taylor and DSCDO Resident Leader Trish Parham greet Transformer Station lawn from 7:30-9pm SUMMER PARTY IN THE CITY: Sat- Casino, and fun for all. guests and help interpret the exhibition that connects discriminatory on the following dates for world music urday, July 27, Noon – 3 p.m. at West LA PLACITA: July 20, from 1-10 p.m., th th federal policies and practices that originated in the 1930s to political and dancing in the streets: Wednesday, Side Alliance Church, W. 38 and Bridge Clark Avenue at W. 25 . July 10: Tal National: Combining original Avenue. Exotic petting zoo, games, food CPL 150 STREET FESTIVAL: Satur- and social issues of today. music with traditional West African Folk & music. Free fun for all ages. day, July 27, 2019, Main Library, 325 VVisitisit tthehe PPlainlain PPressress oonlinenline aat:t: wwww.plainpress.orgww.plainpress.org songs. Wednesday, July 24: Garifuna FREE SUMMER FUN FOR EVERY- Superior Avenue, Downtown Cleveland. Collective. Blending Garifuna roots mu- ONE: Menlo Park Academy, 2149 W. The Cleveland Public Library is shutting sic with dance of this Central American 53rd Street on Sunday, July 28 from 1-3 down the street and celebrating its 150th musical tradition. Wednesday, July 31: p.m. Ice Cream from Maria’s Ice Cream Anniversary with an event featuring BKO – Contemporary Malian music, Wagon, bounce castle, face painting, family friendly fun. Local library branches combining two of the West African na- giveaways, tours and more. RSVP to will be closed and shuttle buses will be tion’s most well-known traditions. Free 440-925-6365 or visit MenloParkAcad- provided to patrons to come downtown and open to the public. For more infor- emy.com to join the celebration on this special day. mation visit clevelandart.org. OUTDOOR OPEN BUBBLE PALOOZA RECREATION CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT WITH DR. U.R. AWESOME: Dr. U.R. RECESS CLEVELAND: Outdoor games FAIRVIEW PARK ICE CREAM SO- Awesome, a six-time Guinness World of skill, teamwork, music and barbecues CIALS: Thursdays July 11, 18, 25th and record holder will demonstrate awesome at each free family session. Every Tues- August 1 at W. 38th just south of Franklin bubbles. Up to 40 children will be given day thru August 6th from 4:30 – 7 p.m. at Boulevard from 7-8 p.m. Free ice cream bubble buckets to create an Atmospheric 7805 Madison Avenue. and arts activity. Bubble Palooza. Friday, August 2, from SERVICES DANCING WHEELS COMPANY, World 2-3 p.m. Rain Date: Friday August 9, DO YOU NEED HELP ACCESSING Center for Integrated Dance Arts Access, 2-3 p.m. SOCAIL SERVICES AND WORK COMMUNITY SUPPORT? Cleveland Public Library SECOND DISTRICT POLICE COM- staff are trained Benefi ts Navigators who MUNITY RELATIONS COMMITTEE can help you apply for food assistance, MEETING: Tuesday, July 9 at 6:30 p.m. medical assistance and cash assistance. at Applewood Centers, 3518 W. 25th (In Library staff can also connect you with the gym on Daisey.) free classes and programs for GED/ COMMUNITY ACTION High School Equivalency Prep, Adult NEIGHBORHOOD ACHIEVEMENT Basic Literacy and skills, technology HUB: Creating Paths from Poverty to training, and job and career coaching. Possibility: Tuesdays, Fridays and Satur- NEIGHBORHOOD RESOURCE & days, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.at Denison Avenue RECREATION CETER EXPANDED SUMMER PROGRAMS: ACT/ACT United Church of Christ, 9900 Denison Prep, STEM workshops, job readi- Avenue. General Outreach – coffee, ness assistance, camp, dance, ballet, conversation, referrals, job network- visual arts, theatre and more. City of ing and food and clothing assistance. Cleveland’s 22 recreation centers are [email protected], providing new free services free to all 216-584-8339. Cleveland residents. For more infor- CRAFTS mation visit: www.clevelandohio.gov/ LEARN TO SEW by hand and machine. NRRCactivities Saturdays 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. thru July 20th SUPPORT GROUPS at the Lorain Branch Library, 8216 Lorain THE GATHERING PLACE is a caring Avenue. Free. Ask for Cosmic Bobbins. community that supports, educates and EDUCATION empowers individuals and families cur- LITERARY CLEVELAND 2019 INKUBA- rently coping with the impact of cancer. TOR WEEK: July 24-27. Twenty free Services provided free of charge. The programs: improve your writing skills, Gathering Place East, 23300 Commerce learn new tips and craft techniques, meet Park, Beachwood, OH. The Gathering editors, publishers, writers and local Place West, 24523 Center Ridge Road, literary organizations. To register or for Westlake, OH. For more information call more information visit litcleveland.org. 216-595-9546 or visit www.touchedby- FAMILY OUTINGS caner.org. FREE MONDAYS AT THE ZOO: On Mondays with the exception of legal hol- Plain Press idays, the Zoo (not including The Rain- 2012 W. 25th STE 500 Forest) is FREE for residents of Cuyahoga Cleveland, OH 44113 County and Hinckley Township. To con- Phone: (216) 621-3060 fi rm your residency, bring your driver’s email: license or state I.D. or a current utility [email protected] bill with your Cuyahoga Cty. or Hinckley Advertising email: Twp. address along with a photo ID. [email protected] KIDS RIDE FREE: RTA offers free sum- Website: www.plainpress.org mer rides to children age 12 or under Plain Press © Estab lished in 1971 th until August 10 . Limit three children Circulation: 21,000 copies. per fare paying adult. Published monthly. EMPLOYMENT Distribution area: Cuyahoga Riv er west WEST SIDE CATHOLIC CENTER, to W. 140, Lake Erie south to the Lower 3209 Lorain Avenue, will begin its next Big Creek Valley. Avail able free at over Workforce Development Certificate 500 lo ca tions. Managing Editor: Charles E. Hoven; 4-week Program (The Guaranteed Job Editor: Deborah Rose Sadlon; Offer Program), on July 8th, 9:30-12:00 Reporters: Bruce Checefsky & Victoria pm. Childcare and lunch are available. Shea Individual one-on-one employment work Photo Editor: Coriana Close; available afternoons; 1-4 pm. Please Photographer: Michael Oakar enter through the rear door. Ad ver tis ing Sales: Ed Tishel ENVIRONMENT Graphic Art ist: Dav id Myers Dis tri bution: Ahmed Morad OHIO CITY INC will host a panel and Mailing: Teresa Calvo community conversation about city-wide Board of Trustees: Keith Brown,Peggy tree initiatives and tree management in Davenport, David Gam ble, Dr. Leo Jef- Ohio City on Tuesday, July 9 from 6-8 fres, Joe Narkin, and Helen K. Smith. July 2019 • Plain Press 3 Central Tremont Block Club weighs in on J Roc Development proposal for an apartment development by Bruce Checefsky have lived there for 35 years or At their June meeting, residents more. of the Central Tremont Block Club Goulis asked Cory Riordan, Exec- voiced their concerns about J Roc utive Director of TWDC, to describe Development’s proposal to build a the development process in the 124-to-140-unit apartment building, Tremont area. called Electric Gardens, on the hill- “Developers are asked to check side just east of W. 5th and Literary in with Tremont West by the City Road. of Cleveland or councilman. We Julie Goulis, co-chair of the Cen- do an initial review and provide tral Tremont Block Club, opened the development guidelines. These standing room only meeting on June guidelines include meeting with the 3rd at the Polish Alliance Hall, with block clubs,” Riordan responded. a reading of the block club bylaws. “The economic development team “One person speaks at a time. formulates its own opinion. Central Be respectful and do not interrupt Tremont is not a legal body in the anyone while they’re speaking. For decision-making process. Neither questions, or comments, we will is Tremont West. The City makes a limit everyone to one minute. Simple decision based on our recommen- majority is needed to pass any issue dations. We are advisory only.” for our block club.” The remainder of the meeting Following an introduction by board focused on a proposal by J Roc members, people were asked to Development, the residential and state their names, where in Trem- mixed-use development company ont they live, and how many years responsible for Tremont Black and they’ve been in Tremont including Tremont North townhouses, for PHOTO BY CHUCK HOVEN th new residents of a few weeks in a project they are calling Electric Friday, June 14, 2019; Bergen Village, W. 5 and Literary Road. Residents of Bergen Village expressed the neighborhood, to residents who concern that their view of downtown and the industrial valley may be obstructed by a new apartment ccontinuedontinued oonn ppageage 6 building proposed by J Roc Development. Cleveland Lead Advocates for Safe Housing (CLASH) reviews new “Lead Safe” legislation introduced by Cleveland City Council After review of the Cleveland City under the city charter for a possible vote child to test positive, City Council’s bill partnership with the state and county protections for tenants (4) Prohibitions Council’s lead safe legislative proposal, in March 2020. supports our vision of a transformational, to require all city daycare centers to be on confl icts of interest between landlords Cleveland Lead Advocates for Safe “We understand that introduction of preventative testing system that requires “lead safe.” and those hired to complete lead tests; Housing (CLASH) is encouraged by the legislation does not guarantee that an “lead safe” status in all rental units in the As written, the City’s legislation also and (5) landlord protections such as the progress but remains concerned about actual law will be passed,” says Jeff city. raises constitutional issues because it safe harbor if landlords follow the lead key missing provisions. Johnson, CLASH member and former However, the City’s bill does not relies on criminal penalties to punish safety requirements. CLASH will continue its petition Cleveland City Councilman. “We will require that all rental housing be “lead landlords for their fi rst violation. CLASH’s attorney, Rebecca Maurer drive for our updated proposal because work with City Council but also remain safe” until March 1, 2023. CLASH Other important policy initiatives that helped to identify these differences, and CLASH understands there are three in the community to secure support for believes it must be March 1, 2021. are missing in the City Council proposal others, as part of her review of the bill, a phases to an actual law – introduction, a strong ‘lead safe’ law.” Additionally, the City Council proposal are (1) Use of a higher standard for the full copy of which is attached to this press review and passage. Until all three are The proposed ordinance introduced ignores the need to protect children in initial lead test in the rental housing. release. completed, and an effective “lead safe” June 3rd 2019 in City Council does daycare centers. CLASH believes local CLASH believes to properly protect our “For all the differences I have identifi ed mandate law with key policy provisions demonstrate the signifi cant switch from lead law must include daycare centers neighborhood children the initial test in two pieces of legislation, there’s one is passed, CLASH will continue to seek a reactive approach to a proactive registered under city law and that City must be the “gold standard” lead risk difference that should not matter” says public support for its proposal as allowed approach. Instead of waiting for a leaders must continue to support a assessment; (2) Inclusion on a Lead Attorney Maurer, “how this bill gets Advisory Board of citizens personally passed. Whether we get that legislation Cleveland Lead Advocates for Safe Houseing’s (CLASH’s) referendum is “fi ghting for impacted by lead poisoning, renters and ccontinuedontinued oonn ppageage 8 all Cleveland’s neighborhoods – to ‘get the lead out’” -- it is not a distraction healthcare professionals; (3) Enhanced Open letter to the shelve the referendum effort and various nationalities. Cleveland Lead Cleveland Plain Dealer: get to work helping council refi ne its Advocates for Safe Housing (CLASH) This letter is in response to the June legislation, see the light on regulating is a group formed around a single issue 12 Editorial by the Editorial Board of the home day cares and raising money in but is fighting for all of Cleveland’s Plain Dealer and published by cleveland. the community to support this important neighborhoods to “get the lead out”. com and the Plain Dealer titled Strong work.” Therefore, it is incumbent of City Cleveland lead safe legislation still needs City Council is a body elected Council to work with CLASH {and other funding and to add day cares. CLASH can by the people, for the people and groups} to determine what legislation help by ending distracting referendum drive. of the people so it is they who are to enact. Referendum is a handy tool Per the article: “There’s another accountable to the citizens who voted to use if City Council does not abide sour note in the process: CLASH -- the them in and may someday vote them by what the people want and with its Cleveland Lead Advocates for Safe out. The problem with Cleveland looming possibility may allow for more Housing citizens’ group that helped today lies in its lack of neighborhood negotiations between CLASH, City spark change with its referendum drive civic associations supported by street Council and the other groups. Our -- has announced that, because it didn’t block clubs. These organizations children’s very futures depend on it. get every single element it wanted in the proved {in the past} that they could Joe Bialek Cleveland legislation, it would continue to be used to transition neighborhoods Cleveland work toward a March 2020 ballot issue, once dominated exclusively by seeking to adopt its package of reforms by referendum.” And per the internet: “Initiative, referendum, and recall are three powers reserved to enable the voters, by petition, to propose or repeal legislation or to remove an elected offi cial from offi ce.” Obviously, it is the group’s right to proceed with the referendum considering the fact that they are the “group that helped spark change.” As a member of a community affected by lead I see it as every bit as incumbent of the group to press on with the referendum. I am glad they are doing this. Per the article: “Such a referendum drive -- undercutting Cleveland’s current efforts instead of working with City Council and the community Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition to strengthen the city’s lead safe proposal and solidify Proudly serving the Ohio City community funding -- couldn’t be more disruptive and counterproductive. CLASH should featuring: • Private Rehabilitation Suites • Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapies • Short-Term Rehabilitation Services • Complex Wound Care • Hospice Care • Respite Stays

3600 Franklin Boulevard Cleveland, OH 44113 216-651-1600

www.lhshealth.com 4 Plain Press • July 2019 In Memory: Toney Green December 21, 1947 - May 15, 2019 Near West Side neighbors remember a special friend to the community by Sarah Stoner House of Representatives, and It’s been a wonder, over the last former member of Cleveland City 10 years or so, to see the surge Council, opened the service with a in affection for our dear Ohio City perfect sentiment. Standing in her from the outside world. But what yellow jacket with her lovely smile makes it so special? she said, “I just miss him.” Undeniably the dense, concen- His son, Tony Jr. shared with us trated blocks of restaurants, book- stories of his father that helped to stores, breweries and galleries paint a picture with broader context. present a treasure trove of expe- Like the fact that he had signifi cant riences for day visitors to our city. talent as a portrait artist. Looking That’s only part of it though. The warmly at all of us in the sanctuary, people are what makes our neigh- his eyes so like his dad’s, he said, borhood so extraordinary. The peo- “He could draw you. He could rep- ple who own the shops and yoga licate a scene from memory, and studios, live in the neighborhood, also put you in a different outfi t if work in the restaurants, restore the you wanted.” century homes and take care of the In conclusion, Tony shared sto- roofs, sidewalks and tree lawns. ries of his father as a hard worker We lost one of our good ones who put his own dreams on hold late this spring. Our dear friend, when, at 17 years old, he became PHOTO BY MICHAEL OAKAR Toney Green, passed away on a father to Tony. Wednesday, June 5, 2019; Memorial Service for Toney Lynn Green Sr., Franklin Circle Christian Church, May 15, 2019 in his home in Riv- Others gathered that afternoon, 1688 Fulton Road: Tony Green, Jr. addresses Ohio City neighbors at Franklin Service Church at a Memorial erview Towers. He was a pillar in shared stories of Toney, too. Sto- Service for his father Toney Green Sr. In the background is a portrait of Toney Sr., surrounded by his tools. this community, as iconic as the ries of how he moved according bridges that connect Ohio City to to his own timetable…making it LLGBTGBT CCOMMUNITYOMMUNITY CCENTERENTER celebration of the Pride event on June 1st in Cleveland and preparing the east. happen, but not necessarily let- Friends and neighbors gathered ting you know when that would be. ccontinuedontinued ffromrom ppageage oonene describes himself as openly gay, for the opening of the center at the with Toney’s son and daughter- Toney would fi nd treasures that he shared his story of the fear he felt as same time. She talked of the open- Skindell (District 13) said the new in-law, Tony Green Jr. and Sylvia thought you might like and drop a ten-year-old about telling people ing of the new center during Pride center would serve not only serve Mildred Green, at Franklin Circle them off in your yard. who he was. McCormack described month and the commemoration of the Cleveland community but all Church a few weeks ago to re- How he used our tool sheds as the new center as “planting a fl ag the 50th anniversary of Stonewell. of Northeast, Ohio with great pro- member him. Every day for the his personal tool library, checking in the ground” and saying to young “Let’s think about the signifi cance gramming, wonderful services and past 20 years, as neighbors and out a tool from one person’s yard people with fears similar to those of all this,” she said. staff. Skindell said State Senator visitors would walk along the side- to get everyone’s jobs done-- a lad- he had as a child, “this community Harris then invited all present to Nickie Antonio (District 23) wanted walks, Toney Green would greet us der here, a wheelbarrow there, a cares for you.” tour the new center. to attend the ribbon cutting but was with a shout, a wave, a smile, and rake, s broom…and store them in LGBT Community Center of The tour of the center revealed an tied up in Columbus with the State a bit of neighborhood news … or a whatever yard he happened to be Greater Cleveland Executive Direc- open and inviting space with lots of Senate’s deliberations on the Ohio bit of nonsense to make us laugh. working in. Taking care of all of us. tor Phyllis S. Harris asked members natural light. The Center will have a budget. You could never predict where you One of our youngest community of allied organizations to come to her variety of programs in the new facil- City of Cleveland Ward 15 Council might see him; he worked on many members, who had known Toney side as she addressed the crowd. ity including some new programs. Representative Matt Zone praised blocks, at all times of day. since he was a toddler and is just She read a poem about how those The LGBT Community Center’s the LGBT Community Center’s Truly the eyes and ears of the now in the double-digits, stood up that have gone before you are part website lgbtcleveland.org notes a efforts and advocacy that led such neighborhood, he took his job very to share how he remembered that of your fabric. Harris noted the number of existing programs and accomplishments as having a do- seriously to keep Ohio City tight Toney, “He just helped people,” he forty-four-year history of the LGBT services provided including health mestic partnership registry in Cleve- and tidy. He ensured our sidewalks said. Community Center at the Gordon and wellness programs, youth and land and bringing the gay games to were shoveled, our leaves raked But it wasn’t just that he helped Square Arcade, W. 29th Street and young adult programs, and SAGE Cleveland. He noted activists in the and our environment free from everyone with their yard work, Coventry. She called the opening a program for adults over 50. The neighborhood such as the late Buck those who meant to do harm. or that he was such a hard work- of the new LGBT Community Cen- center also offers LGBTQ+ sensitivi- Harris and Detroit Shoreway Com- Friends and neighbors gathered er out in the elements from early ter the highlight of her career. She ty training programs and community munity Development Organization with Toney’s son and daughter- morning until late afternoon in the acknowledged and offered thanks meeting space. MetroHealth Doctor Executive Director Jeff Ramsey, who in-law, Tony Green Jr. and Sylvia blazing heat of August or the cold- for “the support of community mem- Doug Vanauken says the Pride Clin- have worked in support of the center. Mildred Green, at Franklin Circle est days of February. It was that he bers, elected offi cials and people ic will be moving from McCafferty Zone also spoke of the welcoming Church a few weeks ago to remem- truly cared about his friends in the who believed in us over the last 44 Health Center to the new LGBT message the LGBT Center sent to ber him. neighborhood. years.” Community Center. the LGBTQ community members Carol Hedderson, one of the pi- He made every encounter a warm Referring to all the allies now Those touring the facility noted the of greater Cleveland. He noted his oneers of the vibrant resurgence bright spot in the day. You could count standing at her side, Harris talked spacious second fl oor with a capac- late brother, Marty, left Cleveland for of Ohio City back in the 1970’s, on Toney to greet you with his pet name about their role in making the new ity of up to 198 people. The second for you...Princess, Darling, Hollywood, New York City because he didn’t feel shared, “Toney would always say ‘I center happen. She said, “We make fl oor also features an outdoor patio. Mama or Money--it cracked us up. He welcome here. got your back. You hear me?’ And progress by connecting to people.” From the front of the building’s east and I used to scat rhymes back and City of Cleveland Ward 3 Coun- that always made me feel secure. cilman Kerry McCormack, who Harris talked about the Center’s side, former Board President Bryan forth...though he was much better at it Bowser noted you can “get a peak” I knew he would be out in the al- than I. In the last years, we did that less at Lake Erie looking down W. 67th ley making sure we were all okay. often (maybe because I couldn’t keep He did so much for our neighbor- up!) but still would take a few moments Street. to chat every time our paths crossed. Architect David Thal showed hood in so many ways. There is no one who is like him and he will be Alan Fodor, a longtime resident read guests the gender-neutral restroom from the bible Luke 10:25 – 37, The missed terribly.” facility signs that say “THEM.” Parable of the Good Samaritan, fol- Guests enjoyed colorful pastries Her sentiment is echoed in ev- lowed by beautiful thoughts shared by prepared by Board President Bob eryone’s memories of him. fellow resident Reverend Lisa Hess; an Sferra’s catering company Culinary The Honorable Mary Rose excerpt from her reading follows: Occasions. Oakar, longtime resident, for- “We gather today to remember a mer member of the United States man who will live in our hearts forever. Toney Green gave of himself as did the Samaritan…As Jesus said in the book of Matthew, chapter 7, verse 12: ‘Sow whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.’ Let the memo- ries of Toney Green linger in our minds to remind us that we should all give to others as generously as Toney Green did.” The gathering of Toney’s loved ones, and sharing our thoughts and memories was the beginning of healing for a lot of us, but also a reinforcement of what truly is important not just in our smaller community, but our larger human com- munity. Small kindnesses matter. Wealth is not defi ned by money alone. The true value in a life well lived can be illustrat- ed by how we make others feel…pro- tected, loved, taken care of, inspired. The fabric of our communities is strong when we accept each other for who we are and look out for one another. Rest in peace, Toney. We miss you and remember you forever. Sarah Stoner lives in a cottage in Ohio City with her husband Jeff, their two cats and dog. She is a writer. July 2019 • Plain Press 5 Children delight as they visit with animals at Farm in the City event at Halloran Park by Chuck Hoven delight as he reached out to touch to Buckeye the Holstein calf. event along with their classmates small Party Pals Farm piglet named The Farm in the City program at Jacob, the Alpaca, but quickly drew Children also had a chance to from Treetop Day Care on Denison Chip. Halloran Park on June 14th drew chil- back as the large animal turned ride a pony. Janice Houston, age Avenue. The event sponsored by Westown dren and their families from through- suddenly. Cook was not deterred, 8, took a turn riding a pony named Eight members of Cleveland Community Development Corpo- out the Plain Press readership area. he successfully petted both Jacob Fudgesicle guided by Party Pals Police bike patrol visited the Farm ration, Ward 11 Council Member The children delighted in petting and the Alpaca and Buckeye the Holstein Farm staff member Sara Thomas. in the City event and joined with Dona Brady, and Cuyahoga Arts and feeding Jacob the Alpaca, a Holstein calf before turning his attention to Next in line to ride Fudgesicle was Community Policing Captain Keith Culture featured animals from Party calf named Buckeye, and a small feeding the goats. Samya Bailey, age 3, whose Mom, Sulzer in posing for a picture with a Pals Farm in North Bloomfi eld, Ohio. herd of goats. Zavier Scott, age 9, devoted Samantha Bailey, walked close by Maurice Cook, age 5, smiled with some time to picking grass to feed during the ride. Two brave young sisters Aleshka DR. DANIEL FRESON Rodriguez, age 2, and Love Ro- properties--his partners are Rick, his driguez, age 4, posed for a photo father and company founder, and his with a Ball Python named Hercules ccontinuedontinued ffromrom ppageage oonene younger brother, Jori, but his request which was being held by Blanca United Bank Building and nearly 20 for a 10-minute phone conversation Carrasquillo. The sisters came to the other banks throughout the city in went unanswered. the 1910s and 1920s. Though, per- In a phone conversation with Dr. Lamia, host of local production Horror haps, best known in Cleveland for Freson, Mr. Goss was willing to Hotel, receives national recognition its monumental public buildings like extend the lease an extra 30-days, Cleveland’s own Lamia from “Horror until the end of July. A few days later, Hotel” was named runner-up for “Favorite Severance Hall, Municipal Stadium, th he sent an email requesting that Dr. Horror Host” in the 17 Annual Rondo and the Public Auditorium, Walker Hatton Classic Horror Awards. and Weeks eventually became Freson sign a contingency lease and TV20, which airs the show locally, one of the most sought-after bank provide an exit strategy. The email promoted the show last year saying: builders in the Midwest. (source: stated that he was eligible to stay “Produced locally here in the City of clevelandhistorical.org) the extra month to move his busi- Cleveland by REEL TV, TV20 is happy Dr. Freson’s fi rst fl oor offi ce in- ness but, just as quickly, Mr. Goss, to bring you: Horror Hotel! Hosted by cludes two exam rooms, a waiting apparently not speaking on behalf Lamia, Queen of the Dark, and her trusty serpentine companion, Lilith. Horror room, auxiliary testing room, phone of MNR Ltd, changed his mind. Dr. Hotel will be a brand-new twist on TV20’s storage room, a closest and lunch Freson was told to leave by June th Cleveland Classic Cinema, bringing clas- room plus another offi ce. He sees 30 . sic & indie horror fi lms, trivia, interviews, about fi fty patients a month. Most of “MRN’s timetable is of no concern and an all-around spooky time. Horror his patients come from the surround- to me,” said Dr. Freson. “My time- Hotel will be airing at midnight this Friday ing neighborhoods: Riverview Apart- table is obviously of no concern to and Saturday, with an 8PM airing on ments, Clark-Fulton, downtown and them. I’m assuming they rented the Sunday.” West 9th Street, and from as far as space to someone else, but they’ve The Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Parma and Lakewood. He accepts a told me nothing.” Awards were created by David Colton Dr. Freson will have to cancel and Kerry Gammill in 2002. The awards number of payment arrangements are fan-based, and have no connec- for services including Medicare previously scheduled appointments tion to any commercial sponsor. The and Medicaid. The vast majority if he doesn’t get a lease extension. awards give national recognition to what of Medicaid enrollees lack access Generally, he schedules clients two fans believe is the best in the horror to other affordable health insurance. or three months in advance and, in genre! His patients range in age from 4 some cases, up to two-years. He’s “Horror Hotel” is a hosted horror show years-old to elderly people in their searching for a new location in Ohio produced entirely out of Cleveland. The nineties. City for his practice but doesn’t have show began broadcasting locally and PHOTO BY CHUCK HOVEN on the web in 2013, before picking up anything fi nalized yet. Friday, June 14, 2019; Farm in the City, Halloran Park, 3550 W. 117th Dr. Freson knew something was national syndication in 2016. Currently, wrong when he contacted MRN Ltd “I’d like to pay my employees and the show is available nationally on both Street: Children delight in petting a Holstein calf named Buckeye. in mid-April to discuss a new lease. get a transition plan going but I don’t Retro Television and The Action Channel. Buckeye is visiting from Party Pals Farm in North Bloomfi eld, Ohio. He was referred to Mr. Joseph Del know if that’s going to be possible,” In Cleveland, the show also broadcasts industry since the 1970s. The show is Re, Chief Operating Offi ce, who told he said. “Counting myself, we have on TV20, View show trailer: https://drive. written, produced, hosted and edited him in a phone conversation that seven part-time employees and two google.com/fi le/d/1oZ6IsE0eI2NVFNrx- dGEGhNBT2acArEuX/view by Lamia. The entire on-set production they were not planning to renew his full-time. I’d like to stay in the neigh- team is local to Cleveland, the show is lease. borhood and take my employees The award is great achievement by a local production. The show was cre- fi lmed on the West Side of Cleveland at th with me.” A few weeks later, on May 30 , he ated by lifetime Cleveland resident Ray a studio on Storer Avenue. received a letter from Mr. Geoffrey Tears welled up in his eyes as Szuch, who grew up with a love of the Goss, General Counsel and HR he looked across the offi ce where horror host genre watching Ghoulardi Director at MRN Ltd informing him his optometrist business has been and has worked in the fi lm and television that he had thirty days to vacate the for the past thirty-seven years. “I’ll property. probably fi nd a place where I can Prior to the letter from Mr. Goss, continue for a few more years,” said Dr. Freson tried to talk to Mr. Ari Dr. Freson. “I think I’ll be okay.” Maron, spokesman for the Cleve- land-based realty company respon- Editor’s Note: Dr. Freson found a sible for the East Fourth Neighbor- new offi ce space at Lutheran Hospi- hood and Uptown retail/multifamily tal, 1730 W. 25th, Suite 3000 6 Plain Press • July 2019 Abbey Avenue makes connections by Gwendolyn Kochur Abbey Avenue also runs through Roads are not only a means of Duck Island, which is the source of travel--they are a way for people to many new housing sites and con- connect. Abbey Avenue makes up dos. The Duck Island Club, which only about 3,500 feet of the city’s started as a speakeasy during sprawling roads—but what it lacks prohibition days, is located just a in distance, it makes up for in signif- block off of Abbey at 2102 Freeman icance, connecting historic districts Ave., next door to some of the new of Cleveland. housing units. Many people recognize Abbey The Inner Belt Bridge that runs Avenue by its name alone, however, perpendicular to Abbey Avenue was what is most important is what it originally built in 1959, and it can be makes accessible. argued that it split neighborhoods in Ohio City, with its versatile dining half, making Abbey Avenue’s con- options, entertainment and the West necting trait even more important. Side Market, lies just west of Trem- One of the businesses effected by ont, a hub of Victorian homes and of this was the Gateway Animal Clinic trendy eateries and festivals. Acting at 19th and Abbey, which had to as a direct connection between the move farther west on Abbey Avenue two is Abbey Avenue. from W. 15th and Abbey in order to The Abbey Avenue Bridge also accommodate plans for the con- gives Tremont residents access to struction of a new Inner Belt Bridge Columbus Road which is the home that began around 2010. Stripmatic of St. Wendelin’s Parish to the south Products, a stamping plant that and also leads to the Cleveland’s manufactured tubular metal parts Metropark’s Merwin’s Wharf and from an Abbey Avenue plant since other amenities to the north by the 1948, was forced to relocate outside Cuyahoga River. of the neighborhood due to the plans PHOTO BY MICHAEL OAKAR Abbey Avenue runs west through for the new Inner Belt Bridge which Saturday, June 15, 2019; Corner of Clark and W. 25th, US Bank Parking Lot; The band Los Tres Sonidos Tremont to Ohio City. As viewed included its property. performs at a rainy La Placita festival, an open-air market celebrating Hispanic heritage. Carlos Berrios, from a map, Abbey Avenue is actu- The Abbey Bridge has gone Johnny Gonzales, and Tony Pegan make up the band. ally within the reach of three historic through its fair share of changes districts, as it is only a few streets ccontinuedontinued oonn ppageage 7 CCENTRALENTRAL TREMONTTREMONT BBLOCKLOCK CCLUBLUB WEIGHSWEIGHS IINN away from Scranton Flats. ccontinuedontinued ffromrom ppageage 3 is the process of singling out a small ment project have suggested. The design approval and rezoning has committing 5% - 10% for workforce parcel of land for a use classifi cation panoramic view, on the other hand, been costly and time consuming. housing. Gardens. totally different from that of the sur- is an entirely different issue. Still, we are committed to moving Workforce housing is a term used J Roc Development is propos- rounding area, for the benefi t of the When Chris Nielson purchased forward with completion of the proj- by developers to provide attractive ing to construct a 124 to 140-unit owner of such property, often to the his townhouse in Bergen Village four ect in the near future.” and affordable housing for mid- apartment building connected to detriment of other owners. years ago, he was promised in a “The fi rst meeting we had with dle-income service workers, such as the Towpath Trail and overlooking In some states, spot zoning is ille- promotion from Sutton Development Councilman Kerry McCormack was police offi cers, teachers and nurses, Cleveland’s industrial valley with gal and has uniformly been denied Group, “an astonishing scenic view 677 days ago,” Taylor said. “We’ll in close proximity to their jobs. panoramic views of the Cuyahoga in zoning appeals when there is from its enviable location… with have met twenty-nine times since Households earning from 60 percent River. The 2-acre parcel on Liter- substantial impact upon surrounding unparalleled views and panoramic then, with Bergen Village about six to 120 percent of the area’s median ary Road purchased by J Roc is land. The City of Cleveland currently setting…with a nostalgic touch of times and Central Tremont Block income are often considered eligible zoned industrial, which means the has no consistent urban design Cleveland’s history, and most of all, Club six times. We’ve really tried to for workforce housing. Affordable development corporation is seeking standards that would limit the mass, a distinctive experience in urban work with residents; listen to their housing, on the other hand, is gen- a rezoning from industrial to mixed height, and appearance of any new living.” feedback; and have the spirit of erally used for households where use. Spot zoning, as it is referred to, construction. Without a master plan, The J Roc Development parcel compromise.” income is less than 60 percent of developers can pick and choose par- borders his property line. Even with Compromise for J Roc Devel- AMI (Annual Median Income). cels that serve the interest of their the current redesign of a 4-story opment designers and architects The median household income in investors and ignore the concerns apartment building, lower than the meant scaling back their project Tremont is $40,561 or 27% lower of surrounding neighbors, or the 5-story fi rst presented to the block from a 5/1 construction (fi ve stories than the national average. environmental impacts on the land. club, Nielson’s scenic view will be over a garage) stick building with a Proponents believe every city With the Towpath Trail near to the blocked. The effect is like having scaled height of 81 feet, to propos- needs workforce housing, so peo- entrance to Electric Gardens, the someone cut in front of you to get ing removal of more than 14,000 ple can live near where they work spot zone request could potentially the better view. yards of soil to lower the height of especially those workers who are confl ict with the public use of the Erin Taylor from J Roc Develop- the building to 51 feet. As of last essential to the local economy. trail, as some critics of the develop- ment explained. “The process of month, they settled on a 4/1 (four Tax incentives for workforce hous- stories with a garage) design with ing in Qualifi ed Opportunity Zones PPlainlain PPress:ress: TToo AAdvertisedvertise ccontactontact EEdd TTishelishel a height of 42 feet, just a few feet like Tremont are meant to promote aatt [email protected]@yahoo.com above the Bergen Village current job and wage growth. Developers height level. can temporarily defer taxes on Sutton Development Group built capital gains with restrictions but the Bergen Village in 2009. Their web- types and compatibility of housing, site promotes Tremont’s fi rst gated and the impact on the character of community as a residence on Trem- neighborhood rarely get discussed, ont’s Ridge that enjoys “an aston- according to residents of Bergen ishing scenic view from its enviable Village. location…with a nostalgic touch of Nielson appreciates the effort Cleveland’s history, and most of all, J Roc is going through to engage a distinctive experience in urban with local residents, but the Central living.” Tremont Block Club approved a “Many of the homes have gor- three-story construction project, not geous city views that must be four-story. The fi rst renderings of the experienced,” reported several real project were made public less than estate sites with listings of the town- a month ago, according to him. houses for sale. “I think your depiction of the That could all change if J Roc De- neighborhood concerns like park- velopment gets approval to rezone ing, density, and building height the industrial site. Electric Garden are legitimate,” said Nielson, “but will create a barrier to the scenic they go beyond that. We don’t know view of the industrial valley from the impacts that can evolve as the Bergen Village. The developers project gets built. The massing and make no excuses for their plans appearance of the building is a to piggyback onto the success of monolith. A monolith is a monolith the Towpath Trail and monetize the is a monolith. It’s our view and it’s a views of the industrial valley. In fact, monolith.” it’s their selling point. Several Bergen Village properties “We made simple moves to ori- are currently listed for sale from entate the building, break down the between $425,000 - $615,000. scale, and engage it with the view,” “From the design perspective, said Bill Neburka from Evident Ar- Electric Garden still has to go chitecture Offi ce, while disusing the through the design review process design process. “We wanted to push and City Planning Commission,” the building as close to the Towpath Riordan added. as possible,” added Taylor. When the vote tally was returned, Current projections for a typical there were 31 votes in favor of unit at Electric Gardens are 600 to rezoning the site from industrial to 1100 square feet, with a monthly rent mixed use, and 13 votes against it. of $1200 - $2200 depending on the Nielson was visibly disappointed. apartment. J Roc Development rep- “They can simply do better,” he said. resentatives expressed interest in July 2019 • Plain Press 7 AABBEYBBEY AVENUEAVENUE for eager Clevelanders to enjoy. Another landmark that disap- ccontinuedontinued ffromrom ppageage 6 peared with the passing of time was throughout the years, including be- the Coca Cola Bottling Company ing closed for long periods of time near east Abbey Avenue, just off of for repairs or while awaiting funding Crown Avenue. While exact dates for rebuilding the bridge. The most of the Bottling Company’s departure recent changes being in 2013 when from the area are unknown, the the road underwent more than four building disappeared from historical months of work. The road was maps sometime between 1937- closed for east-bound drivers while 1951. new pavement was poured for the This building was outlived by its bridge. The work resulted in wider next-door neighbor, the Distribution sidewalks and two new bike lanes. Terminal Warehouse Company, a Not only did the fi nished product 131 ft. high-rise. The 12-fl oor build- benefi t drivers, cyclists and pedes- ing broke ground in 1926 and was trians, the work changed the look of demolished 85 years later in 2011. the road cosmetically. According to Emporis, the Ware- Just down the street in Tremont is house Company, also known as the Sokolowski’s University Inn, a fam- Cold Storage Co., was often deco- ily owned and operated restaurant rated with ads that could be clearly since 1923. Specializing in Polish seen by travelers and commuters cuisine, Sokolowski’s is the oldest using the Inner Belt Bridge. It was family owned restaurant in Cleve- demolished to make space for the land, and the family prides itself George V. Voinovich Bridge. on serving “the working man and As for the roads, path and the Ab- business person for over 92 years.” bey Avenue bridge itself, the building materials have changed. Michael Sokolowski, who is one PHOTO BY CHUCK HOVEN of the Sokolowski’s to carry on the Sokolowski remembers the Abbey Avenue bridge being better suited Friday, June 14, 2019; Farm in the City, Halloran Park, 3550 W. 117th Street: Children check out the goats. restaurant’s name and Polish cui- The goats are visiting from Party Pals Farm in North Bloomfi eld, Ohio. sine, has seen Abbey Avenue adapt. for horse and buggy. However, as “So much has changed—really in Cleveland became industrialized, was not yet open. A note in the Plain Only six of these signs can be hood to historic Tremont, and the the past 10 years,” Sokolowski said. the bridge had to be adapted to cater Press 20th Anniversary Scrapbook found around the city, one of them beer links Cleveland history to a Sokolowski recalls that, as one to vehicles of greater horsepower in notes, “A new Abbey Road Bridge being off of Abbey Avenue. The dark, malty Belgian Dubbel.” traveled west on Abbey, heading the 1980’s. is scheduled to open soon.” signs were installed by Destination While Abbey Avenue has certainly toward the West Side Market, there Sokolowski and his family know Getting to downtown with the Cleveland, who told Fox 8 that “the experienced plenty of changes was a huge warehouse along the fi rst hand just how important Abbey bridge closures in Tremont was a sign provides both a tangible Cleve- throughout its lifespan, its purpose road. It was slowly demolished and Avenue is when it comes to con- challenge, but Tremont residents land brand experience to visitors has remained the same. To this day, disassembled in 2009. Cleveland necting Tremont to Ohio City. He were up to the challenge and even and residents alike, and another and hopefully for many days in the natives weren’t the only ones to remembers when the bridge was made a sport of it. An article in the opportunity for iconic images of future, Abbey Avenue remains a recognize this change in scenery. closed for a long period of time. early 1980s in the Plain Press titled Cleveland to be shared throughout means of connection. “I have friends from college who “We had our struggles getting First Tremont Auto Race blazes path the world.” ******* come to visit and ask ‘What hap- across that short area [to Ohio City],” to downtown notes that Jeff Chiplis Like all of the Cleveland Script Editor’s Note: This is the fi rst in a pened here?’” Sokolowski said. Sokolowski said. won the race in his 1978 Chevette, Signs, the Script Sign accessed by series of articles featuring streets in The area then underwent land- According to him, this was one going from the closed W. 14th Street Abbey Avenue features a beautiful the Plain Press service area. The scaping and became part of the of the main areas to shop as an I-90 ramp to public square down- city scape background. Social media Plain Press will be publishing fea- Towpath trail that runs 81 miles from alternative to downtown Cleveland, town in 7 minutes and 33.6 seconds. savants can pose before the Inner- tures on major streets in our service Cleveland to New Philadelphia. This which he described as “hopping in With many routes out of Tremont belt and Shoreway bridges with the area leading up to the March 2021 section of the Towpath trail stretches those days.” to downtown including the Abbey Key Bank Tower and Terminal Tower fi ftieth anniversary of the founding a quarter of a mile and cost about Sokolowski remembers a Dillard’s Bridge closed at the time, the article peeking out behind. If visitors take of the Plain Press. $5 million to complete. in downtown Cleveland as well as said, “here is Chiplis’ fi rst place route their photo on the night of an Indian’s The articles were written this This project included adding Morgan Linen Services, which is to Public Square: W. 14th, Abbey, win, they can capture the fi reworks past fall by students in Plain Press 100 new parking spaces off Abbey still in business today on Colum- W. 13th Place, University, Scranton, of Progressive Field in their photo. Board member and Cleveland State Avenue for easy access to the trail. bus Road. He also speaks fondly Carter, Old River, St. Clair, Ontario, Abbey Avenue’s sign was one of University Professor Leo Jeffres’ When completed, the Towpath trail of Fuzzy’s Bar that he frequented Public Square.” the fi rst three installed in Cleveland, Communication’s Class at Cleve- will cover 101 miles from Lake Erie around 1965/66 and noted that there Another institution along Abbey being erected in 2016 before the land State University. Plain Press to New Philadelphia, Ohio. The were many bars accessed by Abbey Avenue that is no longer with us and Republican convention set upon the readers are welcome to send in their piece of the Towpath that intersects Avenue that could be enjoyed. is sorely missed is Haab’s Bakery. city. The 8-foot-high, 16-foot-long memories of events, businesses with Abbey Avenue opened in 2017 The Plain Press chronicled the After 104 years in business, Haab’s sign may only be a little over two and places on major commercial efforts of Tremont activists trying Bakery, just off of Abbey Road years old, but the $20,000 script is streets in the Plain Press service CLASSIFIED to get the bridge repaired in the on W. 19th Street, closed in 2000. putting Abbey Avenue on the map area to be incorporated into these 1980s. An article titled, Tremont When the business was owned by and will document it for years to articles as the Plain Press staff and PLAIN PRESS CLASSIFIED: $10 gets promises for needed bridge for 12 words and 30¢ for each Elfriede Haab, she placed an ad in come. volunteers prepare the articles for repairs, written by Tremont West nearly every issue of the Plain Press Another lasting Abbey Avenue publication. The Plain Press serves additional word. To advertise Development Corporation organiz- count the words and mail a check in the 1980s and 1990s. The ad icon exists in the form of a beer from the area from the Cuyahoga River er Robert Laycock and appearing featured the Haab bakery building Great Lakes Brewery. The Ohio City to W. 140th and from Lake Erie to or money order with your ad to in the November 11, 1983 issue th that also served as her home and brewing company named a Dubbel the Big Creek Valley. Streets we the Plain Press, 2012 W. 25 #500 reported, “Passage of special legis- Cleveland, OH 44113. looked like a gingerbread house. beer after the street, honoring the hope to publish features on include: lation in City Council on November The bakery supplied merchants at Gehring Brewery that used to be Denison Avenue, Fulton Avenue, FLEA MARKETS/RUMMAGE 14 brought reopening of the Abbey SALES/THRIFTS the West Side market as well as housed only a few blocks away from Detroit Avenue, Franklin Boulevard, Avenue Bridge closer.” According to area residents with freshly baked Abbey Avenue. Lorain Avenue, Clark Avenue, Storer ST. PAUL’S THRIFT STORE: the November 1983 article City of W. 45th and Franklin, Clothing, goods. Nicholas Haab, who later According to Great Lakes Brew- Avenue, Madison Avenue, Professor Cleveland offi cials promised mem- th th bric-a-brac, household items and inherited the business, had ties to ery’s description of the beverage, Avenue, W. 14 , W. 25 /Pearl, and bers of the Free Tremont Committee the neighborhood too. He was a “The street [Abbey Avenue} now W. 117th. Contributions can be sent more. Open Wednesdays 1 to 5pm that “Construction would begin by (regular prices) First Saturday of graduate of St. Ignatius High School. links our own Ohio City neighbor- to [email protected]. May of 1985 and be completed by Abbey Avenue is also south of Month 10 to noon store and Gym, May 1986, assuming all goes well.” Auto Body Rooms For Rent Bargain Prices, Clothes $1.00 a one of the most recognizable sym- However, apparently not everything bols of Cleveland. Plastered across bag. Third Saturday of Month 10 th went well—by the 20 anniversary of social media, categorized under to Noon Store only, All unmarked the Plain Press in 1991, the bridge racked clothes $1.00 a bag. various hashtags such as #thisiscle FOR RENT or #clevelandsign, are thousands PROPERTY OWNERS NEEDED: Business Directory of pictures of those posing with a If you are a property owner with Cleveland Script Sign. nice, clean, reasonably priced apart- Attorneys ments, and are looking for tenants, PPLAINLAIN PPRESSRESS please call Care Alliance at (216) TTOO AADVERTISEDVERTISE 924-0429 and ask for Jim Schlecht. CCONTACTONTACT EDED TISHELTISHEL LOOKING FOR HOUSE LOOKING FOR HOUSE: Rent to AAT:T: own in Clark-Fulton, Stockyards [email protected]@yahoo.com and Detroit-Shoreway area. Three Insurance bedrooms at least one on fi rst Accountant Real Estate fl oor, with fi rst fl oor bathroom. Call Ray at 216-272-8790. LOOKING TO BUY PRIVATE COLLECTOR: Buying old and new coins, currency -- foreign and domestic, plus all stamps!!! Call John 216-848-9967. SUBSCRIPTION TV STREETS MOS SUBSCRIBE: STREETSMOSTV: YOUTUBE. COM/STREETSMOSTV ¥ Inter- views • HoodNews • Music • Life- style • 216-633-1078. 8 Plain Press • July 2019 Style Question: What is right and best to wear inside the hotel and inside the hotel suite? Respectfully, Mr. Hotel, Motel, Holiday Inn Hi Mr. Hotel, Motel, Holiday Inn! slides that you have, but why not This is a great question and I am go for an upgraded woven, velvet so happy to answer it because last or suede loafer type of slipper? Add month, I shared with the ladies how a splash of color with purple, green, to look stylish while on vacation, but plaid or graphic designs, but what- I did not include anything for men, ever you do, say, “No” to packing and I certainly did not touch on the dinosaur head, Bart Simpson loungewear! Nobody wants to see shaped, roaring, belching novelty or be the guy in his ill-fi tting robe slippers that look best at home and and underwear hovering over the no where else! continental breakfast line. So, let ‘s The best thing about this lounge- get right into it shall we? wear is the fact that all of it can be T-shirts: Stock up on as many sourced at any and every price comfortable t-shirts in a variety of point so splurge wherever you see colors and styles that you can afford fi t. Also, your signifi cant other will because they will come in handy for thank you for leaving the shapeless, summer time casual wear, but are oversized “dad” tees and basketball perfect for lounging around in the shorts at home and, after seeing hotel. You can choose from cotton, how good you look, hopefully, in the recycling bin. Thank you for writing in, I hope this all makes sense to you! If not, I have affordable shopping and per- sonal styling services available to PHOTO BY CHUCK HOVEN specifi cally address your concerns Friday, June 14, 2019; View of the Cuyahoga River from Whiskey Island. Boats wait for the bridge to open. and issues. Email me anytime at la- Fifty years after the Cuyahoga River caught fi re for the last time on June 22, 2019, Clevelanders celebrated dysilk@thehouseoffl y.com. progress toward a cleaner river on the weekend of June 19-23rd with a series of clean water events.

RRIVERVIEWIVERVIEW WWELCOMEELCOME CCENTERENTER is Cleveland’s fi rst experiment with “I don’t want to settle. If this is ccontinuedontinued ffromrom ppageage oonene to get to know the people?” Inside Out, created by renowned what my team can do with this lim- artist JR to help engage the world ited budget and in a short time span, by has partnered with LAND studios Luckily, Malaz had previous ex- in a global art project. imagine what we could do together to do just that. The goal is to turn perience in immersing herself in In the future, Malaz hopes to as a community when we think big. the former Riverview Community projects like these. She once spent expand the Riverview Welcome We know we can get there. I know Center, for years being used as a a week homeless on the street to SSilkilk AAllenllen Center into a large park overlook- it’s hard for people to have hope storage facility, into a new welcome understand the importance of per- ing the Cuyahoga River. The future when they’ve been broken so many FASHION center for all of the citizens of Ohio sonal space. During the economic crisis, she lived with a single mother design includes a walkway to a times, but you know what? Give me or cashmere, but pay attention to City. The center is located at 1701 chance. That’s what I want to tell th th struggling to provide for her child. rooftop overlook covered in grass. the cuts that you choose. If you West 25 at the corner of W. 25 and She did these things to align her In order for the project to be set in people. I will do my best.” like looser boxier fi ts go for a scoop Franklin Boulevard. community buildings with the needs motion, additional funding is needed The Riverview Welcome Center neck, but if you prefer a slimmer Born in Sudan, Malaz has had of the people she was building them as well as the stabilization of Irish- is hosting the Cleveland Common style then try it with a crew or v-neck extensive education from around for. When she was a kid, Malaz’ town bend and the straightening of Ground on June 30 as well as the line. If you are unsure, try both of the world, studying architecture in mother would constantly remind her Franklin Boulevard. Malaz says if annual AA Cleveland anniversary. them on in a store and see which London and receiving a master’s of the power of empathy. they can bring enough attraction to The OUT Print/IN Print exhibit is one looks the best on you. Not just degree in design from Virginia “She would regularly take us to the welcome center and keep the scheduled to open at the Riverview for your hotel stay, these tees will Commonwealth University in Qatar. st the orphanage for us to see the momentum going from there, good Welcome Center on August 1 . also look great with shorts and jeans From there she began designing children there and to help them, things are sure to come. if you choose them correctly. community buildings internationally, understand them, to understand Sweaters: A lightweight sweater winning more awards along the way, that their struggle is part of life and CCLASHLASH REVIEWSREVIEWS LLEADEAD LLEGISLATIONEGISLATION like a long sleeve tee, henly or ther- but always keeping her values from that everyone is destined with a dif- ccontinuedontinued ffromrom ppageage 3 organizations include the Cleveland mal are great for those of us who get Sudan in mind. Lead Safe Network, Single Payer Access “My father comes from a Sufi ferent sort of struggle; even though through City Council or through a ballot chilly at night or maybe your room Network, Cuyahoga County Progressive you feel you are struggling, there is initiative, what’s important is that we has a balcony that you want to sit village in south of Khartoum,” Malaz Caucus, Black Lives Matter of Cuyahoga something in you that can help oth- protect kids in the best way we know out on. A slim, but not too tight fi t, is said. “Part of the Sufi culture that I County, Cleveland End Poverty Now ers, and that is what you can focus how. CLASH is encouraged to see the grew up with is very entrenched in Coalition, Organize!Ohio, Northeast fl attering and you can jazz it up by progress made by City Council, but, as community service and we grew up on” Ohio Coalition for the Homeless, choosing styles with prints, patterns, long as we see areas for improvement, Malaz spent four months talking to Cleveland Democratic Socialists of zippers and pockets which is great watching my grandmother cook for we will remain active.” residents of Ohio City and gathering America, Northeast Ohio Black Health for fashion and function. If you are the whole village, feeding the whole ABOUT CLEVELAND LEAD information. She attended dozens of Coalition, and Black on Black Crime, unsure of what colors to get, stick village – the house was always ADVOCATES FOR SAFE HOUSING: Inc. For more information or to volunteer open. You don’t just live, trying to events ranging from AA meetings Cleveland Lead Advocates for Safe with a classic navy, gray or black; with CLASH contact Yvonka Hall at the to personal dinner parties. Malaz Housing (CLASH) is dedicated to you can’t go wrong. serve your own dreams. Your own Cuyahoga County Progressive Caucus said one of the most revealing ex- protecting the most vulnerable citizens Trackpants: Look for a slim fi t wellbeing is connected to the well- at 216-802-8201 or by email at ymhall@ periences was when she became in the City of Cleveland. Member and tailored trouser style with ad- being of your community.” msn.com. an Uber driver for the Ohio City justable drawstrings and pockets Malaz is hoping to bring these neighborhood. with zippers in order to keep a room same values to her most recent “Just driving people around . . . key and anything else you need to project – creating a welcome center what happens is you trust people secure. Have fun and go for a pair that unites all the people of Ohio into your own personal space. with contrasting colors, prints or City. She talked of a building in her You’re vulnerable because you allow even your favorite team logo and childhood village that everyone in them into your car, your space. In wear them with one of your simple the community gathered, every day. exchange, they trust you and so that tees or sweaters. “They eat together, they celebrate sort of exchange of trust allows for Sweatpants: Seemingly the eas- together, they solve their problems.” a lot of stories and information to be iest of all loungewear, sweatpants It was a way for people to interact learned.” can be tricky if you don’t get the fi t and become familiar. After hearing what the people had right! A slim contoured fi t always Creating a building like this in to say, Malaz and her team came up looks more pulled together than a Ohio City is a large task, as the with four values to base their project baggy shapeless style and will look range of socioeconomic classes are on: community, inclusivity, diversity, like you actually made an effort to vast. The city houses many senior and dignity. She highlighted dignity look “presentable” while on vaca- citizens in the Riverview high rises as perhaps the most important. tion. Go for silk, cashmere or cotton while, at the same time, there are “Dignity is a place to be, to exist, depending on your level of comfort young families moving in. Despite without having to pay, without having and budget. gentrifi cation projects, the city still to do things, you can just be who you Pajamas: Don’t mistake a good struggles to create a central bond are, and you feel welcome.” pair of pajamas for being old fash- for all of the varying neighborhoods. This theme of dignity has been put ioned and stuffy! A classic answer “If we don’t do anything about it, into action with the Out Print/In Print to loungewear and an exercise in it’s just going to continue that path project. For the In Print half of the personal style, there are so many of keeping those communities seg- project, citizens are given cameras choices and combinations like regated and isolated,” Malaz said. to photograph people and spaces to plaids and stripes, pastel jacquard “and eventually it’s gonna break.” explore the theme of dignity. These and colored piping that you can’t go In order to know how to unite the photos will then be developed, wrong! Pants should be relaxed and people and what they wanted from and some will be exhibited inside light and don’t be afraid to pair them their community center, Malaz set the Riverview Welcome Center on with one of your tees or sweaters for out to truly get to know Ohio City opening day, August 1. a high-low casual look. residents. “When I came here, I Portraits of citizens are being Slippers: Yes, you can pack your didn’t know the community very well. taken as well and these photos Nike or whatever other sportswear I’m an outsider, so how am I going will be pasted on the outside of the Welcome Center to represent the PPLAINLAIN PPRESS:RESS: inclusiveness and diversity of the TTOO AADVERTISEDVERTISE CCONTACTONTACT EEDD TTISHELISHEL AAT:T: building itself thereby representing [email protected]@yahoo.com the Out Print portion. The project