City Hall to Ponder Future of Beck Center

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To Be, Or Not To Be... City Hall To Ponder Future Of Beck Center

by Jim O’Bryan new restaurant or two to occupy space decades ago, or alternatively, whether opment after citizens were advised that As we go to press there are a flurry in front of the Beck Center, while other we should designate our money and developers would never come here. At of stories breaking about the Beck Cen- plans had the Beck Center becoming an resources elsewhere? the Realtor Conference at Sweetwater ter pulling out of Lakewood for a future integral part of the various opportuni- Lakewood’s Mayor Thomas Landing in the Emerald Canyon, Assis- at Crocker Park or elsewhere. ties for entertainment in Lakewood. George noted, “On my first night as a tant Planning Director Dryck Bennett Rumors have been swirling around What started out as Lakewood newly elected Councilmember in 1988 stated emphatically, “We are not hav- the city for over a year regarding many Little Theater, a community playhouse we voted to extend city dollars to the ing trouble finding developers. We are different plans for the property where 75 years ago, has become a crown Beck Center. I clearly remember former having trouble finding space.” the facility is sited and all plans concen- jewel of theater and arts education in Councilmember Tom Brown railing on Interestingly, one rumor has Bob trated on ways to enhance the property the region. Now the city and the Beck about the constant city support of the Stark building a new office building around the Beck Center in an effort to Board of Directors have to reckon Beck Center. That was 18 years ago.” for his home office in the Beck space. make it the anchor of Lakewood’s hot with success. The community that has The Lakewood Observer office was As City Hall ponders what they can do Entertainment District. always been so supportive and the city notified of a rumor nearly five months in a cash-strapped environment, the Cecil Yates had a plan to accom- that has given so much over the years ago about meetings initiated by Crocker Beck Center looks to move away from modate the Beck Center’s consideration wonders if the Beck Center will stay and Park developer Bob Stark with the Beck home. What is it worth to us and to our for redevelopment that would add a help our revitalization as we did theirs and the City of Westlake. We believed memories? I believe that everyone in at the time it was an offshoot of Yates’s Lakewood would like the Beck to stay plan. It was more recently that rumors but at what price? City Council To Review Internet, circulated about purposefully building BECK CENTER UPDATES ! a new facility in or near Crocker Park, Jay Foran Vice President of Lake- Cable Deal From AT&T paying all debts and a long-term com- woodAlive will speak with Fred Unger By Bryan Wroten She said parts of the proposed mitment from Stark or Westlake. and report to those in attendance at contract given to the City Council are “When Frederick B. Unger, chair- LakewoodAlive’s meeting June 28th at High-speed Internet. IP-based a concern such as different terms for man of the Beck Center’s Board of Lakewood Hospital. video and voice. Fiber optic cable nodes public access. She also said Cox’s cur- Directors, and others called a meeting LakewoodAlive thinks it will be that are 63 inches tall, 42 inches wide rent video service deal with the city with Planning Director Thomas Jordan extremely valuable for Beck Center and 20 inches long. Competition with took more than five years to negoti- and me a few weeks ago, we heard their representatives to hear first hand about another cable provider. ate, even after 26 years of partnership. tale of Stark’s offer. I told them the citi- LCPI’s exciting plans for Main Street, The Lakewood City Council will The AT&T negotiations only took six zenry of Lakewood are committed to and similarly, it will be most valuable have to consider all of these aspects of months, she said. doing everything they can to retain the for our members to hear directly about AT&T Corp.’s Project Lightspeed. A concern voiced by some resi- Beck Center,” said Mayor George. issues under study at the Beck. Denis Dunn, director of external dents at the last City Council meeting He then went on to say, “I also FreeTimes Associate Editor (and affairs in Ohio for AT&T, presented is the VRADs, the fiber optic cable explained that the Beck Center’s orga- Lakewood resident) Michael Gill has the potential plan to the City Council nodes that would connect the central nizational infrastructure is Lakewood spent three months researching the during the June 19 meeting. He said it office to customers. Because of their based, not Westlake...i.e., the person- story for an upcoming edition.Gill is the next step from the previous one, size and potential locations near resi- nel who clean the Center, take tickets saw the story break on the Lakewood Project Pronto, which offered DSL to dential areas, residents said they worry at events, make sure the programs get Observer’s on-line discussion area. customers in Lakewood. He cited the about children playing near or on them printed. A move to Westlake jeop- Observation Deck. past relationship between the city and as well as the aesthetics of the units. ardizes the operational end of the Please - join the discussion online the telecommunications company as a Dunn said AT&T would set up business.” at LakewoodObserver.com! reason to move forward. the VRADs mainly on existing facili- When I recently spoke with Mr. “It’s a multimillion dollar invest- ties, so there would not be a lot of new Unger, he made it clear that nothing was In This Issue ment over the next three years (for construction. The fiber optic cables set in stone and that the Beck is looking Lakewood),” he said. “Lakewood is are already laid down, he said, so they to Lakewood first. The board has hired Food Fun ...... 2 a great community for AT&T. It has wouldn’t have to dig up people’s lawns. consultants to weigh the issues and will scores of employees, retirees and share- The City Council has to do three not make a decision prematurely. City Hall ...... 3 holders.” readings before it can vote on the Nevertheless, he was also quoted Project Lightspeed would offer contract. Kevin Butler, Ward 1 coun- in a Plain Dealer article saying, “It will Lakewood Library ...... 4 high-speed Internet, IP-based video, cilman, said he and Edward FitzGerald, take two to five years for the build- Sports ...... 5-6 which would offer customers more councilman At-Large, would review ing to be built.” This makes the plan than 200 channels and a video library the contract in the Rules and Ordi- to leave Lakewood sound a little more LO Is One Year Old ...... 7-9 and IP-based voice, which would nance Committee. Butler said he has concrete. An important question: how improve phone service, he said. not yet had a chance to look too much much should Lakewood spend on a Family Room ...... 10 - 11 As another benefit, Dunn said a into the contract. He said the commit- business that may be committed to deal with the city would give residents tee will discuss it Thursday at 6:15 in leaving Lakewood? Minding The Issues ...... 12 a choice in their cable options as well City Hall. This situation reminds me of the Music ...... 13 as lower cable prices overall through As we go to press, AT&T instituted a Browns leaving Cleveland. While there new privacy policy which states “AT&T competition with Cox Communica- is no doubt that Art Modell deserved a Lakewood Lore ...... 14 tions and Adelphia Cable. may disclose records to protect its legit- new stadium, the city could simply not “It’s not competition that’s neces- mate business interests, safegard others afford to build one at the time. Pres- Gallery Watch ...... 14 sarily a problem,” Christy Frederick, or respond to legal process.” ently, the Beck Center is committed to Cox Communications director of pub- Some argue this is too broad and house its programs in new facility. Chef Geoff ...... 15 lic relations and government affairs, gives the company latitude to share Lakewood is going through a Advertisements ...... 16 “but fair competition.” data with the Federal Government. renaissance with $200 million in devel-

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Lakewood Fun

Jaycees Wing Cook Off Finger Licking Good! All photos by: Ivor Karabatkovic

Kenilworth’s Dan Kalsovsky mixing up some McCarthy’s Chris Tyers and Bryan Patterson People’s Choice “Best Buffalo Style” Wings: Carlucci’s wings

Crazy Rita’s Molly Newman, Ted Elesh and Nick The Lakewood Village cooks: Renee, Brandy and Genine Harry Buffalo’s Ed Zupan and Matt Guerra. Booker Lakewood Observer Ready To Tell Your Story or Join The Discussion?

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Story To Tell? We Want To Hear From You! The LAKEWOOD OBSERVER is pub- We LOVE folks who write for information,” according to We submit an article by visiting lake- lished biweekly by Lakewood Observer, Inc., 14900 Detroit Avenue, Suite 309, the Lakewood Observer! So, please Media: How Audiences are Shaping woodobserver.com and going to the Lakewood, OH 44107. don’t be shy . . . Part of our mission the Future of News and Informa- “Observation Deck.” statement is to “help Lakewood resi- tion, by Shayne Bowman and Chris An opening paragraph should 216.228.7223 dents and neighbors learn as much Willis. If you’re a fan of girl’s volley- be brief but explain the important Copyright 2006 as possible about the city” but we ball or rugby, please write about the points. This paragraph should be Lakewood Observer, Inc. can’t do this without you. games. If your church has a celebra- anywhere from three to five sen- All rights reserved. Any reproduction is The Lakewood Observer is tion, tell us about the event. If you tences. It should include the “five forbidden without written permission. driven by volunteer participation. have memories of Lakewood life, Ws,” who, what, when, where, and PUBLISHER Jim O’Bryan None of our writers, editors, pho- please pass them along to our read- why. The next paragraph should go EDITOR tographers, or illustrators are paid ers. Did your class participate in an into more detail . . .subsequent sec- Heidi Hilty for their work. Each contributor has interesting project? Tell us about it! tions may go into further detail. ADVERTISING some interest, some passion, or some If you are interested in something, We have been thrilled and grat- Call 216.228.7223 knowledge about a subject. Shar- then someone else is going to be ified by the number of folks who ing our interests is how articles get interested, too. have stepped forward to write for ADVISORY BOARD CONTRIBUTING Kenneth Warren WRITERS written and how we come to better Writing an article isn’t as diffi- the Lakewood Observer. And we Steve Davis Stan Austin know each other and our city. And cult as you may think and we have know there are many more of you D.L. Meckes Gordon Brumm Bob Buckeye Jeff Endress we know from experience, no one editors to help you. Articles should out there with a story that our read- Wendy Brickman can tell your story as well as you! contain about 700-750 words. ers would love to hear. So, have some EDITORIAL BOARD Mike Deneen Citizen journalism, also known Shorter articles are fine and work fun; tell us your story and help us to Heidi Hilty Jeff Endress Vincent O’Keefe Don Ferris as “participatory journalism,” is the well with pictures, which should “celebrate with the entire commu- Kim Paras Joe Grimberg act of citizens “playing an active role be the largest and best quality that nity the vibrant mosaic of culture, Emilia Rhodes Heidi Hilty Casey Ryan Bob Ignizio in the process of collecting, report- your digital camera can take. You nature, history, and personality we Christine A. Kaziner ing, analyzing and disseminating can find out more about how to call Lakewood!” WEBMASTERS Amy Kloss D.L. Meckes Ruthie Koenigsmark Dan Ott Renee Klann Rami Daud Hope C. McGuan D.L. Meckes Become an Observer! PRODUCTION Anne Palomaki Brian Simko Nancy Patterson The Lakewood Observer is looking for people, ages 15–100, to get involved in the paper and the city. We PHOTOGRAPHY Tom Powell-Bullock are looking for volunteer writers, photographers, designers and illustrators to help with the production of Rhonda Loje Paula Reed Ivor Karabatkovic Gary Rice the paper. It does not matter if you are a professional or amateur, our editorial staff will be glad to help. Rita Ryland ILLUSTRATION Angela Potts-Skourlis News releases—If you have information on an event, organization, program or news on anything that has to do Gary Dumm Dan Slife with Lakewood, send it to: [email protected] Mark Toneff Bryan Wroten

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Lakewood City Hall Video and Communications in the 21st Century

Council 06.19.06 By Stan Austin or did not rise at the same rate as in Lakewood City Council President Lakewood Observer City Council Reporter monopoly jurisdictions. The inference Robert Seelie called the June 19, 2006 was that the AT&T entry could bring meeting to order at 7:40. volunteers that included all members subscribers for 26 years. AT&T has prices down for cable and other video At the invitation of council of council and most department heads, been the primary telephone provider services in Lakewood. member Ryan Demro (ward two), shrewdly said, “I’ll sign the resolution.” for over 100 years. Cox brings the tri- Because of the complicated regu- representatives of the Lakewood Early Chances are, you’re reading this fecta of video, Internet, and recently lations on media transmission at the Childhood PTA addressed council with article in the print version of the added telephone services into your federal, state, and local level, the only feedback from the recent “Meet the newspaper. That method of transmit- home. Because AT&T has gone through certain need for Lakewood to address Trucks” event. Observer readers will ting information has been around for many business configurations over the is whether to approve the construction recall pictures in the last issue of some many centuries. Maybe you’re reading years, it has evolved from a telephone of node boxes to handle the reception of Lakewood’s mightiest and shiniest the online version. That technology is carrier to include becoming an inter- and transmission of video signals. The fire trucks and work trucks that were barely two decades old. Remember TV net provider in the last twenty years. It visual impact of these boxes has met on display at Lakewood Park for kids to antennas on the rooftops of homes? now wants to add the third, video, to with some resistance in Rocky River. climb on and sit in. The consensus was They are about as common as the old its offerings. According to Assistant Law Director that this first time event was extraor- transistor radios and black Bakelite Denis Dunn presented the formal, Thomas Corrigan, the design and con- dinarily popular. Comments on the telephones. Today the buzzword for public debut of AT&T’s entry into the struction of these node boxes can be a Observation Deck indicate that several information technology is conver- home video market to Lakewood Coun- matter for council to consider. 50 plus year old “kids” really liked the gence. Many technologies are coming cil. Dunn is the Director of External Dunn emphasized that the trucks, too. There was an award for Best together so the distinct lines between Affairs for AT&T Ohio and was most expected investment of several mil- Truck and just as in a dog show where them are blurring or nonexistent. If recently a member of city council as an lions of dollars by AT&T, the 14th the mutt sometimes gets the attention, you read this online you can talk on at-large member. largest company in the United States, here, the homely Zamboni ice finishing the phone through the computer and Project Light Speed is the national would represent a unique recognition machine from Winterhurst won! watch video all carried by cable, phone AT&T label for what it describes as of Lakewood at the national level. In Next, Demro introduced a res- lines, or through the atmosphere. “next generation communications addition, this would be a continua- olution commemorating the first The companies or enterprises technologies” which it will deploy in 41 tion of the long association of AT&T anniversary of the Lakewood Observer. which provide and carry this data are target markets over three years. Dunn in Lakewood. “We are the third larg- Well over 50 writers and volunteers either new to the scene or in some cases said that Lakewood could be the sec- est employer in Lakewood and have gathered on the council stage for the close to a century old. ond city in Ohio to be a test market. several hundred current and former customary photograph. Mayor Thomas Cox Communications has been The homeowner would be able to sub- employees living in Lakewood.” George, surveying the assemblage of familiar to Lakewood cable television scribe to AT&T U-verse TV, which is Cox now almost exclusively serves an internet protocol based video ser- the market of consumers that AT&T is vice. The basic product offerings are trying to target. Any entry by AT&T Chair-ity Auction Success! expected to compete with those now would therefore threaten the Cox cus- By Renee Klann, student class, Mr. McGuan, from the fourth- offered by Cox. According to Dunn, tomer base. However, at the moment, grade class, and Mrs. Pangrace, from “this choice contract will provide com- the Cox representative, Christy Freder- Students in the accelerated pro- the fifth-grade class. Refreshments petition where there currently is only ick, has in a letter to council suggested gram at Lincoln Elementary School were provided by Giant Eagle, as well. one provider.” He cited studies indi- “caution and due diligence when have what it takes to make a difference Fourth and fifth graders were calm, cating that in areas where competition reviewing this new proposal.” – CHAIRS! The project of paint- having done the same two years ago. existed that prices either came down The meeting adjourned at 8:50. ing chairs began four years ago as an On the other hand, second and third art project, but two years after that it graders were almost jumping with became Chair-ity Auction, and now excitement! Visitors strolled around City Hall Reaches Out To Realtors Lincoln gives all the proceeds to the inspecting the numbered chairs and Cleveland Foodbank. Students had asking the painters questions. A very been studying many different artists, special numbered chair (27.5), painted and after pulling an artist’s name from by Maureen Marshall in her unique a hat, the painting was on. Mothers style, was also for sale. with students in the classes gave their With everything from Chagall time and expertise to the task, too. to Renoir, Dali to Degas, Vermeer to After studying the artist’s style, pick- Van Gogh, there was a style for every ing a picture, and of course – finding taste! But now the bidding began. a chair discarded on a tree lawn, 47 Mike Snyder and Kevin Keane from reproduced masterpieces were created. WTAM radio station were the auction- Mr. Rego and Giant Eagle provided the eers. Paper plate paddles began to fly as paints and brushes and students pro- grandparents, parents, friends and any- vided the talent. After painting about 1 one else fought over chairs. A couple hour a day, for close to a month, all the of highlights of the auction were Mrs. chairs were ready for the auction! Marshall’s’ sunflower chair was bought On June 3rd, 47 students in grey for $400 and Halle Rose’s Children at shirts with green silk-screened chair the Beach by Mary Cassatt sold in the designs stood waiting to see what would end for $820. That was a new record happen. Parents and teachers in light Chair-ity auction. The total amount of green shirts rushed around preparing money raised was $12,525! Everyone Barb Kelley from the Lakewood Planning Department put on a fun day for over 50 as the first bidders came. The teachers had a wonderful time! area realtors. A lot of positive energy and information was provded. The day ended were Mrs. Marshall, from the 2/3 split with Lolly-The-Trolley tour of Lakewood. Thanks for the great job.

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Library Events Calendar

Wednesday, June 28 Saturday, July 8 BASIC COMPUTERS FOR SENIORS WORD PROCESSING BASICS The Lakewood Offi ce on Aging presents an eight-week series of classes that teach Find out for yourself why everybody is getting rid of their typewriters. For more computer skills from the ground up. Contact Kathy Cole at (216) 521-1515 to reg- information, please visit our Computer Instruction Page. ister. Classes begin in March and May. Reservations for computer instruction classes begin the fi rst of each month. To 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium register, please stop in or call (216) 226-8275, ext. 127. THE SPIKE FIDDLE 3:00 p.m. in the Main Library Technology Center The sonorous and elegant qualities of the violin arise out of the development Saturday, July 8 (cont’d) over several thousand years of bowed string instruments, called chordophones. THE TRANSFORMATIVE LIBRARY In this listening session, Stephen Calhoun, guides participants on a journey of This is the last program in a seven-session series about leveraging the library for musical discovery featuring the diverse music made around the world on violins, the purpose of exploration and transformation. Presenter Stephen Calhoun is a fi ddles, rebecs, kemanche, rababs, and proto-violins and proto-chordophones. theorist, designer, and facilitator of adult experiential learning. His conceptual 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium focus aims to “experientially evoke the critical insights and creativity that are the Saturday, July 1 hallmarks of self-artistry and personal transformation.” V3:00 p.m. in the Main SATURDAY NIGHT VARIETY -- SONGWRITERS IN THE ROUND Library Auditorium Area songwriters share the stage with Tracy Marie. SECOND SATURDAY FOLK -- THE EIGHTH OF JULY 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium Celebrate with patriotic music from some country or another. Monday, July 3 7:30 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium WOMEN IN TRANSITION: Navigating Your Financial Future Sunday, July 9 Candace M. Pollock of Hahn & Pollock, LLC will provide an overview of the SUNDAY WITH THE FRIENDS legal and fi nancial issues involved in six topics of interest to all Lakewoodites. The History of the Modern Guitar: Angel’s Wing or Devil’s Broom? These lectures are intended to give attendees a general idea of what is involved Gary Rice demonstrates key advances in guitar technology. in securing their futures in the most effi cient and responsible manner. For more 2:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium information, visit http://www.hahnpollock.com. MANGA CIRCLE 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium Have dreams of publishing your own manga comic? Want to learn more about Tuesday, July 4 visual storytelling? Our goals are to provide art instruction and support to fellow • Lakewood Public Library is closed in observance of Independence Day otaku! Sponsored by DELETER of Japan. (http://www.deleter.jp) Friday, July 7 4:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium FILMS ON FRIDAY TOP TEN MISTAKES OF MEDICAID PLANNING Buena Vista Social Club (1999) Directed by Wim Wenders RATED G Candace M. Pollock of Hahn & Pollock, LLC will provide an overview of the Follow these legendary but forgotten Cuban musicians on their return to the legal and fi nancial issues involved in six topics of interest to all Lakewoodites. spotlight. These lectures are intended to give attendees a general idea of what is involved 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium in securing their futures in the most effi cient and responsible manner. For more information, visit http://www.hahnpollock.com. 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library LPL’s Films on Friday Offer a Musical Glimpse into Cuba

�� By Matthew Charboneau What transpires in Wenders’ Academy Award-nominated film �� Lakewood Public Library’s is actually the 1998 follow-up trip “Films on Friday” series will present to Havana by Cooder, along with Buena Vista Social Club on Friday, his percussionist son, Joachim, �� July 7th at 7:00 pm. The film is a who soaks up the world-wide suc- music documentary by director Wim cess of the initial Buena Vista �� Wenders chronicling the musicians album. The film features scenes behind the Grammy Award-win- from the recording session for �� ning 1997 album of the same name. Ibrahim Ferrer’s solo album, bio- Produced by American musician Ry graphic vignettes with individual �� Cooder, the original album was a interviews and performances from romanticized attempt to recapture many of the group’s contributors the traditional “lost music” of pre- and spirited whole-group live foot- revolutionary Havana. age from concerts in Amsterdam The release was a revelation to and New York City. world music fans outside of Cuba, For many of the long-forgotten a nation whose export of cultural Buena Vista performers—some in commodity suffered during the their 90s at the time of the film— nearly fifty-year economic embargo the visit to New York City offered a by the United States in the wake of redemptive taste of their own impor- the Revolution and Fidel Castro’s tance to Cuban cultural identity and subsequent adoption of Communist musical history. politics. These scenes in particular are The success of the Buena Vista touching and heartfelt glimpses of Social Club recording created instant the Cubans’ reaction to the expanse musical celebrities out of its gregari- and metropolitan marvel of New ous musicians and spawned several York City. Isolated from North solo albums from the main contrib- America for forty seven years by the utors—one of which, the Cuban folk actions of both the American and �� singer Ibrahim Ferrer, had retired Cuban governments, these Cuban from music altogether and taken musicians expressed awe for the City �� to shining shoes on the streets of and conveyed a sense of penultimate Havana. The Buena Vista album life-accomplishment. �� sold 5 million copies worldwide Come to Lakewood Public and enabled the group to perform Library’s Main Auditorium at 7:00 to crowds throughout the world: pm on July 7th to be treated to both �� most notably a fiery sold-out perfor- this highly personal account of the �� mance at Carnegie Hall in New York lives and music of traditional Cuban City, replete with Cuban-Americans musicians as well as the fantastic live draping Cuban flags from the balco- concert footage included in Wim nies and dancing in the aisles. Wenders’ Buena Vista Social Club.

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Lakewood Sports Lakewood’s Top Ranger Rides off into the Sunset By Mike Deneen Gerome’s impact on the department was clearly demonstrated at This past school year brought a lot his retirement party, recently held of excitement for the Lakewood High at Brennan’s party center. Over 250 School athletic department. From the people, including family, co-workers, first snap of the football season right former students and community lead- through to the spring championships, ers attended. Much like the final scene there has been action galore: cheer- from “It’s a Wonderful Life”, people ing fans, hard hits, winning shots and lined up to thank him for his contribu- lots of sweat and tears. But perhaps the tions to the school and to the impact he most significant event of the year didn’t has made on their lives. take place on the field, court or rink. It Gerome, however, deflected the took place on a June day in the athletic praise onto his family, who he cred- director’s office, when Athletic Direc- its with making his career possible. tor Dan Gerome cleaned out his office His wife Sue, in particular, has played after a 35 year career at Lakewood a major role. Among the many tasks High. He is retiring from the post and she has worked are the press box will move on to serve as Commissioner coordinator for football and district of the new Northeast Ohio Conference, track, the girls’ soccer announcer photo by Ivor Karabatkovic which will include LHS when it begins and scoreboard operator, the bas- Dan Gerome and his hawk eyes! play in the 2007-2008 school year. ketball scoreboard operator, and a 1995 football team, which went unde- the kids turn to play and have fun”, says The mild-mannered Gerome ticket seller. All this while serving as a feated in regular season play. There is Gerome. “Parents often want to step in has served the past 15 years as Ath- Lakewood Elementary School teacher, also the 1995 girls’ basketball team, to fix their kids problems and the kid letic Director for the school. The high wife and mother. Gerome’s daughters which made a run all the way to the never learns how to deal with things on school AD post is one of the most also played an active role at LHS since state championship game. In addi- their own.” High school sports are also time-consuming and unappreciated they were five years old and big enough tion, there have been numerous LEL becoming increasingly commercialized, posts in all of sports. Unlike at the to deliver popsicles at cross country conference championships in a range a trend that concerns Gerome. When he college level, high school athletic direc- practices. Now grown, the three girls of sports. Facility improvements have became athletic director in 1991, high tors do much more than hire coaches. – Jody, Becky and Nicki – participated also been noticeable. He worked a deal school events had little or no TV cover- Among the administrative duties are in LHS sports during their father’s with Pepsi to provide $500,000 for the age. However, it is now common to find the scheduling of games, acquiring tenure. The entire family provided re-turf of Lakewood Stadium in 1999. high school sporting events televised umpires, arranging bus schedules, a sounding board for Gerome when New scoreboards have been added nationally on the ESPN networks. eligibility checks, ordering supplies, times were tough, and demonstrated for football, baseball, basketball and Although leaving LHS, Gerome scheduling facilities and rescheduling a lot of patience and understanding wrestling. In 2005, the baseball com- will still be heavily involved in high events after rainouts. In addition there dealing with his very long work days. plex, widely considered one of the school sports as commissioner of is award ordering and banquet plan- Gerome also offered praise for the finest in the entire state, was opened. the Northeast Ohio Conference. ning, meetings with coaches, athletic numerous coaches he has worked with In addition to accomplishments, Although the new league does not code meetings and monthly conference over the years. He calls them “a great there have also been challenges. The begin play until fall 2007, there is a lot meetings. Most importantly, there is example of hard working tireless role landscape of high school sports has been of work already put into the planning. working directly with kids, answering models for our kids and often not rec- changing, especially as it relates to par- Schedules are being developed and questions and handling issues from ognized for their efforts.” ents. Since he started coaching at LHS policies being put into place for the them and their parents. The job often Since Gerome became Athletic in 1971, he has noticed a change in the new league. As it has been for the past entails 12 hour days, requiring a true Director in 1991, LHS has seen a lot way parents relate to their kids’ athletic 15 years in Lakewood, it will be Dan love of sports and an ability to deal of success on and off the field. Among participation. “Parents need to under- Gerome working behind the scenes to with people. the highlights of his tenure is the stand that their turn is over and now it is make the onfield excitement happen. Atlanta Braves Bring Tryouts Back to Lakewood By Mike Deneen launch their careers. programs, which annually produce recommends that players work on the Sanders landed a job with the dozens of Division I college and future basics, such as throwing and catching. On the morning of Thursday, June Atlanta Braves, considered by most NFL players. The emergence of LeBron “Playing catch is one thing I would do 15th, the Lakewood High Baseball baseball insiders to be the sport’s James has further fueled enthusiasm in every day” says Sanders, “build your arm Complex became the proverbial “Field model organization. Since 1991, The the area for basketball. Soccer, which strength”. He also encouraged\s future of Dreams”. For the second consecutive team has won 14 consecutive divi- has emerged as a major sport at hopefuls to continue pursuing their year, the Atlanta Braves held an open sion championships, five National Lakewood High, is also draining off dreams by attending future tryouts. tryout at the newly refurbished facility. League titles and a World Series in top athletes. Despite these factors, the Over 250 young men showed up carry- 1995 (unfortunately at Cleveland’s state has produced many great baseball ing their bats, gloves and major league expense). The Braves have achieved players. Hall of Famers Pete Rose and dreams. Players came from as far away success by effectively scouting and Mike Schmidt, as well as current stars as Cincinnati, Rochester, New York developing talent through their like Ken Griffey Jr. and Roger Clemens, and Muskegon, Michigan. minor league system. This differen- hail from Ohio. The event was arranged by tiates Atlanta from more glamorous Sanders’ job is to identify the next Lakewood resident Reggie Sanders, teams such as the Yankees and Red Griffey or Clemens. “We mainly use who has worked as an Atlanta Braves Sox, who acquire most of their tal- [the tryout] to gauge up-and-com- scout for the past five years. Sanders, a ent by luring expensive free agent ing kids” says Sanders. Many of the Cleveland Heights native, played pro- players that were developed by other attendees were high school aged play- fessionally in the Los Angeles Dodgers teams. ers, ineligible to be immediately signed organization, reaching as high as the Sanders’ scouting territory includes but potential candidates for future AA level. (However, he is often con- much of the midwest, including the amateur drafts. Out of the over 250 in fused with current Kansas City Royals entire state of Ohio. Baseball scout- attendance, Sanders decided that fewer player of the same name.) Although he ing in Ohio can be difficult, since the than five were worth tracking. “Our never achieved his goal of playing in state’s poor weather hampers the devel- scale is just a little bit higher” says the majors, he wanted to remain in the opment of young players. In addition, Sanders, when comparing the Braves game after his playing career ended. most young athletes here prefer other to other Major League teams. Therefore, he decided to become a sports. Ohio has long been known for What advice does Sanders offer to scout, helping other young players its high-quality high school football potential players? Practice. He especially

Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 6 The Lakewood Observer June 27, 2006

Lakewood Schools Lakewood to Create Youth Master Plan By Amy Kloss that some cities actively market them- lies, education, and recreation. community. selves as family-friendly places. After Over the next nine months, the Both Buckon and Lakewood On June 13, Lakewood reaffirmed attending a Leadership Academy on Blue Ribbon Task Force and the four Mayor Tom George stressed the its commitment to citizen involvement Youth Master Planning, Lakewood committees will study the Lakewood importance of community involve- by inviting residents to participate representatives seized the opportunity community, gather information about ment. “Youth Master Planning is in the formation of a Youth Master to apply for a grant that would allow residents, provide a focus for com- about partnerships,” said George. Plan (YMP). Approximately 90 people Lakewood to study youth-related munity discussion, and construct a “It’s about hearing from you.” Buckon showed up for a community meeting issues. Lakewood was one of only six framework for future decisions. The also emphasized the importance of at Lakewood High School that evening cities in the country selected by the culmination of this process will be the youth involvement in the planning to offer opinions on current services National League of Cities to receive Youth Master Plan, a document that process. Four Lakewood High School and institutions that serve families this technical assistance, which will serve as a guide for making deci- students spoke at the meeting of the and youth ages 0-20. includes YMP training, support and a sions and allocating resources. recognition they received as vital, con- Those attending were informed of site visit to Lakewood by League rep- “This is going to be a dynamic, living, tributing members of the Blue Ribbon the work that has already been done resentatives. breathing document, “said Dottie Buckon, Task Force. toward creating the plan and were In January of this year, a Blue Rib- Director of Lakewood’s Department of If any Lakewood citizen is inter- asked to volunteer for one of four bon Task Force was formed consisting Human Services. Lakewood’s plan will ested in becoming involved in the committees now being formed. of representatives from Lakewood target youth ages 0 to 20 years old and YMP process, call the Department of Through involvement in the schools, library, hospital and city gov- their families. It will recommend a set Human Services at 216/529-6685 or e- National League of Cities, Lakewood ernment. The task force identified four of very specific action steps to improve mail at humanservices@lakewoodoh. officials realized several years ago focus areas: health and safety, fami- the lives of youth and families in the net. Lakewood High Students Travel to Europe By Wendy Brickman dents see on the trip? years old. The history that is found in while we are there.” A. We will be traveling through most European cities and villages is Q. How many suitcases/how Members of Herr Sent’s German Germany, Austria and France. simply so much older than most of us much stuff are you allowed to bring? and Madam Braquet’s French classes Q. What specific events from the see here. A. Students are encouraged to departed for Europe on June 20th for itinerary are the students looking Q. What events from the itinerary bring one suitcase and one carry-on. a fourteen day tour. The Observer forward to most? do you expect will impress the stu- They must be prepared to carry all met with Herr Sent for a little pre-trip A. I think students are excited to dents the most? of their belongings themselves. It is a Q&A. see the palaces and castles of Europe. A. Students last trip noticed many challenge to know what to bring and Q. What areas of Europe will stu- It is so foreign to our lives in America simply cultural differences. They have enough for two weeks without to see structures that are one thousand noticed how clean the German cities bringing too much. Many hotels do were. Students noticed that even the not have elevators and the cobblestone garbage trucks in Germany were made streets in Europe are not always suit- by Mercedes. able for rolling. For me as a teacher, it was great Q. What item from the packing in past trips to see how students used list do you most expect will be forgot- their language skills. They were now ten? the foreigners. All around them was A. It is sometimes amazing to me the German language. They will prob- the things that are forgotten. Some- ably see the world in a new light. times Q. How many students are going Students will take such time to on the trip? bring half of their wardrobe and then A. There will be a total of 21 stu- forget socks, toothpaste or their con- dents along with some adults. The tacts–basic everyday needs. I really total head count for this trip will be expect that this group will be well- 36. prepared. They are great kids and I Q. Chaperones? am sure their families will help them A. We will have two teachers, pack. (one German teacher and one French/ For now we say “Bon Voyage” to Spanish teacher) and two nurses as this wonderful group of ambassadors chaperones. for Lakewood as they begin what will Q. How have you prepared for the surely be one of the most interesting trip? and exciting times of their lives. We A. Before our trip, Madame Bra- will be back with a full report when quet and I lead group meetings after they return. school. We wanted students to review some of the sights they will be see- ing and the languages they will need abroad. Some cultural aspects of Europe were covered to help students turn back blend in with their surroundings. We discussed etiquette for ordering time. in a restaurant, tips (which are much Clear. Smooth. Radiant smaller in Europe), appropriate attire ® in cathedrals, using the metro systems, skin. The TimeWise system exchanging money, and of course the delivers anti-aging benefits actual flight to and from Cleveland. you can see and feel. My hope is that students feel com- To start looking younger now, fortable to reach out and experience as ® much as possible in the target culture. call me to try TimeWise As I told students at a meeting “You products for can save money by eating McDonalds AmyName B. 0Burns here in Lakewood instead of flying IndependentIndependent Be Beautyauty Consultant Consultant 0 to Europe. Try the food at a variety 216-536-5561Phone Number 0 of restaurants, cafes or marketplaces www.marykay.com/amyMary Kay ® Personal Web Site addressburns0 Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com free!

0 Please set all copy in upper and lowercase, flush left as indicated on artwork at these point sizes: Consultant name in 11-point Futura Heavy; Independent Beauty Consultant in 9-point Futura Light; phone number in 11-point Futura Regular; Web site or e-mail address in 7-point Futura Light. ‡ Please set all copy in upper and lowercase, flush left as indicated on artwork at these point sizes: Consultant name in 11-point Futura Heavy; Independent Beauty Consultant in 9-point Futura Light; Web site or e-mail address in 8-point Futura Light; phone number in 7-point Futura Light. To the Consultant: Only Company-approved Web sites obtained through the Mary Kay® Personal Web Site program may be utilized. June 27, 2006 The Lakewood Observer Page 7

Lakewood Observer

Celebrating One+ Year - http://lakewoodbserver.com Founding Members of The Lakewood Observer’s Observation Deck The Lakewood Observer’s Advisory Board would like to thank all that have taken part in this project during this ﬁrst year. You are the founding members in this ground breaking, award winning, nationally recognized and respected project into Civic Journalism. Thank you for your support and trust. This list was compiled by D.L. Meckes and is based on when people signed on to the Observation Deck. Thanks to DL and everyone for taking an active part in Lakewood’s Future. Isn’t it time you joined this open civic discussion?

Dl Meckes Mike Deneen Frederick R. Parham 5th. Lorri Stewart David Boron Stephen Gracey Stan Austin Bob Buckeye Paul Schrimpf Lea Swanson Kate Parker Scott Meeson Jim O’Bryan Han Liou Ed Fitzgerald Todd Shapiro Mar Kelleher Anne Cox Mark Timieski Frank A. Mills Phil Oravec Edward Favre Ken Lipka Annie Stahlheber Tom Powell-Bullock Leslie M. Basalla Hector Lineablanca Joseph Milan Rick Uldricks Doug Huntingdon Donald Farris Tara Wendell Otto Lombardo Paul Beegan Nadia Nakonecznyj Jennifer Hooper Tara Zeigler Stan Walsh Bobbie Hendrick Dennis B. Novak Jennifer Moshier Michael Wise Lynn Farris Scott MacGregor Cyndie Morgan Ann Schleckman Elle Schneider Greg Morley Stephen Calhoun Craig Bobby Andrew Harant Savannah Farris Maureen Rosenheim Everybody Massage Mark Crnolatas Jan Henderson Ann Stahlheber Ashley Brooks Schneider Schoen Bill Koltiska Rami Daud Chris Kelley R L. Healy Mark Schroeder April James Laurie Field Bill Grulich Mary Louise Madigan Dan Shields Shawn Juris Brad Babcock Jan Mcmahan Kenneth Warren Michele Billow Kathy Berkshire Leslie Favre Patrick Andrews Arc Ancient Stephen Davis Cathy Frantz Anthony J. Lacerva Michelle Gruss Ian Maurer Lakewood Lawncare Gordon Brumm Bryan Wroten Carly Mcdonnell Audrey Kinsella Allied Home Mortgage Mark Reinhold Dan Slife Steven Ollay Brian J. Seitz Kit Hoffert Mary Mcgraw Howard Horvath Bob Togliatti Joe McClain Lkwd Chamber Of Commerce Janet Popielski Brian Simko Noreen Lucic Luis Gutierrez John Crino Nickie J. Antonio Larry Baldanza Joan Roberts Bill Varkonyi Stephen Gross Jonathan Strick Elizabeth Kash Melisa Yeoman Katherine Kratz Marian Ockington Steve Hoffert Primus Chuks Igboaka Ellen Malonis Ralph Hutchison Rockport Kiwanis Mary Bodnar Bill Davis Fran Kennedy Susan Porter Chris Trepal Dennis J Kampe Tom Jordan Michael Fleenor Hunter Farris Sgt. Maj. Larry M. Isaacs Rita Ryland Linda Riiel Paul Moos Matthew Charboneau Thomas J. George Linda Porter Lisa Judge Mark John Sullivan Jim Snyder Thomas D. Corrigan Mark Latvala Silvia Weber Liz Powell-Bullock Lynda Meeks David Sierk Larry Bennet Dr. Larry Keller Mark Brittsan Victoria Policard Richard W Miller Dave Matlock Eric Eakin The Reagle Beagle Ed Besserglick Mark Utrata Jennifer DeSilets Indira V. Dejarnette Iris McCarry Bill Call Patrick Corrigan Marty Hout Tom Leatherman Lisa Shaffer-Gill Melissa Garrett Aartvark Design Studios Roxanne Smith Phillip King Amanda Schoen Suzanne Bretz Blum Julia A. Wiltse Culeen Carey Jason Stewart Ivor Karabatkovic Donna Seemuth Charles Tilly Kristen Barker Timothy E. Kanak Nancy Hunter Foreman Beth Kappa Jessica Gruenke Christina Mccallum Mary Anne Crampton Gayle Elizabeth Pickel Jeff Weber Terese Memmer Chris Wiegand Duffy Shannon Jeff Endress Frances White Hilary Schickler Dottie Buckon Esther Hazlett Kenny Hendershott Suzanne Metelko Tracy Jones Molly Singletary Sarah Minko Dustin James Jill Harvey Heidi Hilty Carol Mason Mary Ross Dan Policard Albert Leibowitz William Brown Holly C. Whisman Lars McFadden Dave Meadows Todd Shaw Laura Comerford Aiden Schlafmann Adam Gercak M. J. Flynn Ellen Snider Karen Bowers-Emping Bob Seelie James Mckay Mary Ross Coleman Chuck Hackett Laura Walter Teresa Andreani Erin White Doug Gordon George Kubas, II Brian Kelley Jeff Ashby Rev. Steve Patrick Christine Gordillo Terry Batdorf Charley Newcomer Denis Dunn Karen Forte Eileen Dixon Colin Dussault Susana Chow Teresa Newcomer Jackie Taylor John Steele Amy Kloss Daniel Waitkus Pat Ballasch Kevin Galvin Jeff Dreger Sharon O’Donnell Barbara Aylward Don Davis C. Dawson Denny Wendell Jill Timieski Tim Carroll Juliann Sutton Charlie Kirchner Ed Lawn Care Gary Rossen Steven M. Ott Joe Raddish Stephanie Hengesbaugh Beverly Rudin Ferdinand Hansen Paul Nickels Nancy Roth Jaime Christ Brad Humphreys Jeff Normile Kaye Pryor Tom Shaughnessy Lynn Rodemann Glen J Sacha Jarrell McAlister Linda O’Malley Dick Powis John Guscott Kate Mccarthy Ryan Salo Matthew Minnich Casey Welter Steveleach Dan Ott Brett Cushing Michell Slife Gary Pritts LCC Diane Brinich Jacqlyn Avis Kim Langley Pastor Joe Raddish Jay Kennedy Adam Glenn Glenn Palmer Vincent O’Keefe Anita Hoffman Fox Jesse Schmidt Sue Cliffel Dee Rogozinski Jamie Carracher Turo Dexter Mark Moran Josh Rothhaas Natalie Schrimpf Laurie Rhodes David Scott Jeremiah Hull Lee E. Batdorff Mike Masters Jean Smith Dana Baker Patrick McSweeney Kevin Butler Pam Smith Chelsea L. Waschek Richard Cole First Federal Of Lakewood Mike Fridrich Catherine Butler Bryan Schwegler John Pyke Local Girl Gallery Diane Lewellen Michael Donnelly Grace O’Malley John Farina Patrick Stanton Brian W Keske Paul Conroy Joe Grimberg A Graphic Solution Ivan Crnic Jr. Jay Foran Chat Room Richard Tidyman Nate Tieman Ryan Patrick Demro Jerry Ritcey Deanna Rivera David A. Kurczi Paul R. Levar Mikelann Rensel Beckett Warren Anne Marie Villnuve Stephanie Klemola Bob Ignizio Ray Tapajna Joe Whisman Vince Frantz Dean Boland Mike Farley Joe Upton Erich Cranor Dori Schneider Ruth Sholtis-Furyes Daniel Brennan Tim Liston Angelina Cami Ryan Costa Tony Ciresi Mary Rose Peter Chirdon Wendy Brickman Steve Leach Emilia Rhodes Beth Dobrowolski Glenn Langman Rhonda Loje Richard S. Cihlar Pete Kotz Chris Trapp Curt Ackley John K. Sinatra Lauren Chelsea Totten Christopher Kelley Kevin Hoffman Justine Cooper Michael Gill Paul Tepley Dave Mooney Barbara Anne Ferris John Rausch Joe Dangelo Paul Fikaris John Viglianco W.I. Nugent Gary Thomas Michael Dever Gary Hurd David Anderson Stosh Burgess Ken Picklesimer William Anderson Jennifer Frigolette Beladubby Anne Steiner Ann Driscoll Scott Kermode Jerry Koenigsmark David Campbell Zak Wright Joshua Rothhaas Terry Bell Rita Ellen Enlow Caroline Bourque Dawn Schroeder Phil Florian Sue Spell Ruthie Koenigsmark Shelly Gould Burgess Ed Morrison Mary Nix Christine Kazimer Keith Kopko Benjamin Robert Burdick Lakewood Jaycees George Fraatz Donnald J. Heckelmoser Jr Josiette White Robert Swanson Chanel Steiner K. Nugent Mike Swanson Nina Curcio Charyn Varkonyi John LePlae Julie Finley James Rowell Tony Felice Radoslav Karabatkovic Jan Greenﬁeld Kim Senft Paras Michael Deneen Lisa Ellis Richard Baker Dave Kermode Chuck Greanoff Casey Ryan S. Galwey David Lay Edward F. Fitzgerald Bac Nguyen Danielle Masters John E. Price Monica Owen Jakub Mejstrik Colleen Wing Mazie Adams Melessa Sandoval Eileen Libens Michael Compeau Shellie Sedlak Mike Rodemann Linda Beebe Katrina Cegledi David Bargetzi

Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 8 The Lakewood Observer June 27, 2006

Lakewood Observer Members & Supporters - This Resolution Is For You!

Editor and Advisory Board Member Heidi Hilty holds the Resolution issued by Lakewood City Council to ALL Members and Supporters. Everyone in this photo and another 500+ have given their time, effort and words of encouragement on what has become Lakewood’s Paper and Website. Thanks to everyone, we will not let you down. Founding Advisory Board, Editors, Writers, Photographers, Illustrators & Production Mazie Adams Margaret Cessna Melissa Garrett Gary Hurd Scott MacGregor Steve Ott Kim Senft-Paras Susan Adams Matthew Charboneau Joseph Geither Bob Ignizio Chris Madak Anne Palomaki Todd Shapiro Stan Austin Justine Cooper Mayor Tom George Tom Jordan Diane Marshall Jacob Palomaki Brian Simko Patrice Aylward Charles Dahill Jeanine Gergel Tim Kanak Carol Mason Kelsey Paras Dan Slife Ken Bach Rami Daud Susan Godfrey Rosalie Kastelic Danielle Masters Kate Parker Kathy South Jenni Baker Bill Davis John Goodell Ivor Karabatkovic Hope McGuan Nancy Patterson Annie Stahlheber Richard Baker Jan Davis Chuck Greanoff Christine Kazimer DL Meckes Genna Petrolla Robin Sylvester Kristen Barker Steve Davis Jan Greenﬁeld Amy Kloss Suzana Megles Sam Phillips Ruth Sylvester Leslie Basalla Indira DeJarnette Joe Grimberg Dag Kingsbury Terese Memmer Mary Piatak Paul Tepley Bob Becker Ryan Demro Jessica Gruenke Ruth Koenigsmark Suzanne Metelko Victoria Policard Lynn Thompson Paul Beegan Mike Deneen John Guscott Tom Kotz Joseph Milan Angela Potts-Skourlis Jill Timieski Dryck Bennett Michael Dever Lou Gutierrez Carla Kowalski Dave Mooney Tom Powell-Bullock Mark Timieski Kate Bennis Eileen Dixon Terry Hamovitch Kelly Kutler Mark Moran Stephanie Pritts Nick Tjotjos Christa Blum Celia Dorsch Andrew Harant LakewoodAlive Rachel Mravec Kaye Pryor Bob Togliatti Mary Bodnar Ann Driscoll Patty Harken Lakewood City Council Richard Moles Jennifer Raynor Mark Toneff Bob Bond Tys Douglas Kevin Harrod Lakewood City Schools Chris Morit Paula Reed Joe Toner David Boron Maureen Duffy Mikelann Rensel Trish VanAusdal Wendy Brickman Gary Dumm “Congratulations to the Lakewood Observer on your one Emilia Rhodes Mary Anne Varano Gordon Brumm Laura Dumm Gary Rice Laura Walter Robert Buckeye Jim Dustin year anniversary. Thank you for your service to our commu- Lynn Rodemann Beckett Warren Greg Budgett Susan Eisler nity, and I wish you many more years of continued success.” Jim Rowell Kenneth Warren Ben Burdick Lisa Ellis Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich: Dee Rogozinski Chelsea Waschek Shelly Burgess Jeff Endress Mrs. Rolfe’s 4th Grade Fred Weller Terri Pedaci Burns Rita Enlow Richard Healy Lakewood Historical Elizabeth Nici Class/McKinley Casey Welter Catherine Butler Don Farris Heidi Hilty Society Paul Nickels Corey Rossen Holly Whisman Kevin Butler Hunter Farris Jacob Hilty Lakewood Hospital Charlotte Still Noble Jim Rowell Barry Wemyss Steve Calhoun Lynn Farris Kit Hoffert Lkwd Public Library Dennis Novak Casey Ryan Julie Wiltse Bill Call Savannah Farris Steve Hoffert Kim Langley Debra O’Bryan Rita Ryland Colleen Wing Mike Callahan Bonnie Fencl Henry Holtkamp Will Limkeman Jim O’Bryan Julie Schabel Amanda Winters Whitney Callahan Barbara Ferris Jennifer Hooper Tim Liston Vincent O’Keefe Mike Scherer Dar Wolnik Culeen Carey Michael Fleenor Ann Hornsby Han Liou Mary Osburn Natalie Schrimpf Bryan Wroten Patrick Carroll Jay Foran Rebecca Huffman Rhonda Loje Helen Oshaben Mark Schroeder Tara Ziegler Katie Cegledi Vince Frantz Jeremiah Hull John Lovano Dan Ott Rita Seabrook Rachel Zinn Founding Advertisers Without You None Of This Would Be Possible Please Support These Businesses As They Support Civic Source In Lakewood IN EVERY ISSUE Clark Financial Services Huntington Bank Pug Mahones Thank You For Your Commitment to City Dweller Independence Mortgage Services Ken Pullin / Rescue Me Lakewood and the Observers Computer System Development Johnny Malloy’s Progressive Urban Real Estate Around the Corner Services Lacey Paraphernalia Reagle Beagle Rocky River Carpet Cleaning 18616 Detroit Ave. Cox Communications LakewoodAlive Creative Retirement Planning Lakewood Arts Festival Roman Fountain Bela Dubby Custom Slipcovers Lakewood City Hall Ryan J. Salo Marketing Inc. 13321 Madison Ave. Charles Dahill Lakewood Congregational Church Rysar Properties Phoenix Coffee Dan Donnelly Heating & Cooling Co. Lakewood Hospital Rockport Square Diverse Universe Lakewood Lawncare Santa @ Hixson’s ( Ron Lewis ) 15108 Detroit Ave. Dough Boy’s Bakery Lakewood Public Library Save Our Software Rozi’s Wine Shop E & D’s Landscaping Lion and Blue Save the Humans 12900 Detroit Ave. Ed’s Vac Service Local Girl Gallery Slife Heating & Cooling, Inc. Edgewater Cove Apartments Madison Family Dentistry William Simko, D.D.S. All the Rest Every Body Massage Masonic Temple Society Dry Cleaners In Alphabetical Order! We also First Federal of Lakewood McCarthy’s Ale House Steve Barry Buick thank you for your commitment to Flora Cafe Allan Mencin T-Mobile civic journalism and Lakewood. Rosalie Ferguson My Mind’s Eye Tree and Landscape Services 4-Design Geppetto’s Nature’s Bin / Cornucopia Inc. Trinity Lutheran Church A. Graphic Solution Inc. Geiger’s North Olmsted Animal Hospital The Violin Studio Arc Ancient Jan Greenfield Sharon O’Donnell / Realty One Virginia Marti College Beck Center for the Arts Patsy Haldeman Oriental Palace Wendell Design Communications Bob’s Appliance Service George Haritonovich, D.D.S. Paninis @ The Riviera West Shore Career Technical Brennan’s Floral Gift Shop Hixson’s Pet’s General Store Institute Amy Burns, Independent Home Alone Pet Sitting Place a Pet Foundation Winterhurst Ice Rink Mary Kay Consultant Howard Hanna / Smythe Cramer Pizza Pan Chartwell Group Hungry Howies Pizza Preserving Tomorrow’s Memories

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Lakewood Observer Members & Supporters - This Resolution Is For You!

June 19, 2006

Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 10 The Lakewood Observer June 27, 2006

Lakewood’s Family Room The Lakewood Family Room: Community Families

You’re a thirty-five-year-old law- By Rita Ryland Program. This program prepares chil- yer. You gave birth to your first child also for every caregiver. The program ics such as recycling, nutrition, cloth dren up to age five for a more formal one month ago. You are breast feeding, is free; there is no registration, you just vs. disposal diapers, home schooling classroom setting. It helps a child feel but your baby is having choking epi- drop-in. In this age of cutbacks and and community schools. In fact, Lynn comfortable with other children. And sodes. You’re frustrated. Litigation was program slashing, people expect to pay Rodemann, a mom who attends this for parents, it helps to strengthen the easier. top dollar for everything. Some people program, said, “We spend a lot of time bond with their child. In this setting, You’re a first-time dad. You’re a think if a program is free that it’s only talking about schools.” Most of these play is instructive. Angela Skourlis and musician. Two weeks ago, the doc- for people in need, people who can’t caregivers work outside the home in Sharon Gaspar, both moms with edu- tor diagnosed your three-year-old son afford a fee-based program. Not true. part-time jobs. cation backgrounds and over a year with autism. Now, you’re afraid to Some people think if a program is free, The Family Room also offers a employment in the program, are the play with your son, not sure what will the quality might not be there. Not Parents Raising Children with Spe- staff members. frighten him. Your mind is filled with true. This program is an effort to cre- cial Needs Drop-In program on Friday Each play station has a card, play questions. ate a sense of community, to reduce the mornings. Funded by the county and pointers, that tells the adult how to use You’re a sixteen-year-old high isolation that caregivers often feel and staffed by Kayann Zentarski and Alice the activity and suggests open-ended school student, living with your par- to provide the best early opportunities Podgorski, Family Support Special- questions to ask the child. The learning ents. You want your one-year-old to for children. ists for Early Intervention with Help table theme changes monthly. “Don’t play with other children. You have Take the first example given Me Grow, this program is designed just come once,” said Angela Skourlis. questions about your new boyfriend above—a thirty-five-year-old nurs- to provide a supportive environment “The first time you may not feel com- and don’t want to ask your mom. ing mom having difficulty feeding her for the child and caregiver. The Fam- fortable.” Angela encourages caregivers You’re a forty-five-year-old grand- newborn. The Family Room offers a ily Room is large enough, divided into to come often. Friendships will form. mother taking care of your grandson Wednesday morning session, Nurs- three spaces: a kitchen with a super- Your children will learn. Monday through Friday, so his parents ing Moms Chat. In this one and a half vised play tub; a large conference room The Mommy and Me Teen Parent can work. You have a few toys, but not hour program, nursing moms get to with table and chairs, wooden build- Drop-In is held on Thursday evenings enough. You want to talk—to anybody. meet with Suzanne Forsgren, R.N., ing blocks, and a puppet theatre; and at Lakewood Hospital. One partici- Everyone wants to be a good care- BSN, Perinatal Home Visit Coordi- a large playroom with couches, chairs, pant has been attending the group for taker. Every family has dreams for their nator and Lactation Consultant from a table and over a half-dozen play sta- over six years. Children accompanied children. The City of Lakewood shares Lakewood Hospital. Suzanne has a tions. On Fridays, this large space by seven moms, one grandmother and your dreams. The City of Lakewood scale on the table to weigh infants. She allows the children to play in a struc- two dads attended the program one knows that every resident, at some point reinforces feeding techniques, suggests tured, cozy setting. As Jim Kusinski recent evening. The children played. in the parenting process, will encounter dietary intake for moms whose infant said, “This is ideal.” His four-year-old Three moms, who have known each a situation where they could use some may be lactose-intolerant, and places son, Michael, has apraxia and wasn’t other since kindergarten, sat around help. In response, the City of Lakewood, phone calls to physicians. “There are sounding words at eighteen months. a table and chatted. After pizza and with some support from county fund- questions you don’t want to call your He and his son have been attending the general discussion, Barbara O’Patry, a ing, has developed programs that will doctor about,” said one mother. “I call Friday program for two years. “When licensed counselor, led a group discus- help each family to reach its highest Suzanne.” families feel there’s no hope or any- sion on relationships. The teens talked, potential and to become a part of the A new mother may experience body out there, and feel they want to some openly, about the choices they community family. sadness, mood swings, bouts of crying, talk to other families, they can come to have made. The Lakewood Family Room, a and depression. Suzanne creates a safe the Family Room,” said Kayann. “What we’re trying to create is program administered by the City of environment for moms to discuss their In your home, behind closed an atmosphere where we all grow Lakewood, Department of Human feelings and makes referrals to addi- doors, it’s easy to think that nobody and become stronger,” said Toni Services, Division of Early Child- tional community resources as needed. will understand your situation. But Gelsomino. Assisting Toni and the hood, is dedicated to supporting and “There’s such a need for new moms to once you walk into the Family Room, staff with this goal is Cindy Walsh, a strengthening all care-giving families. connect with other new moms,” said you know you’re not alone. Caregivers Licensed Independent Social Worker The Family Room is located at 17400 Suzanne. “The concerns mothers have play with their children; children play and family support specialist. Cindy Northwood Avenue, behind Saint are universal.” with each other. At nine-thirty, one is an employee of Lakewood Hospital James Catholic Church. Toni Gel- Or you might start your week off recent Thursday Morning Drop-In, the contracted with the city with funds somino, a Lakewood resident, serves with the Alternative Parenting Drop- Family Room held about a dozen chil- provided by the Children’s Trust as the program manager. “Toni has a In. What’s that, you say, some program dren and as many adults. The air was Fund. Cindy works ten hours a week consistently gentle approach. She’s all left over from the seventies? No. This filled with the hum of tender voices. By at the Family Room and is available about empowering us to make good is a group of caregivers who are self- ten-thirty, more families had arrived. for families who request assistance. decisions,” said Emmie Hutchinson, a directed. They know they can go to Moms and dads drank coffee, sat in She makes home visits, makes refer- program participant. Toni Gelsomino if they have questions clusters talking, played with the kids in rals to other agencies, helps families The Lakewood Family Room is for about a community resource. On Mon- the puppet theatre or sat at the learn- to connect with resources within every child, newborn to eight-years- day morning, they bring their children ing table. the community, and helps each fam- old. The Lakewood Family Room is to the Family Room to discuss top- “Parenting is isolating and dif- ily to develop a plan that works for ficult,” said Ginger, a mom and them. “This is a very innovative rela- Lakewood resident. “No matter what tionship,” said Toni, referring to the �� your socioeconomic status, everybody relationship between Lakewood Hos- �� needs a friend and support.” You will pital and the Family Room. �� meet caregivers in the Family Room Another innovative aspect of the who have completed eight grades, or �� program is that the City of Lakewood are high school graduates, Ph.D. can- �� utilizes space, once Saint James Con- didates, chefs, writers, stay-at-home vent, that is now Saint James Childcare �� moms, stay-at-home dads, grandpar- Center. The nuns who lived in the con- �� ents, or caregivers who work outside vent were Sisters of the Holy Humility �� the home at part-time or full-time jobs. of Mary. As teachers, they would be �� You will meet longtime Lakewood res- pleased to hear the laughter and learn- idents and newcomers. You’ll meet ing of the children. There’s plenty of �� people for whom English is their sec- free parking either in the building’s ond and, in some cases, third language. small private lot or on the street. �� “It’s the greatest asset Lakewood has to “It’s all about breaking down �� offer,” Ginger said. There’s also a toy isolation, building friendships and �� lending program. establishing relationships,” said Toni �� On Tuesday and Thursday after- Gelsomino. The City of Lakewood �� noons and on Wednesday evenings, invites you, all of you, to come to The the Lakewood Family Room offers Family Room. Please contact Toni at �� the Learn Through Play Early Literacy 216/529-5018 for program details.

Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com June 27, 2006 The Lakewood Observer Page 11

Lakewood’s Family Room

The following was written by Angela Potts Skourlis, resident of Lakewood since 1969. Justine Cooper is an eight-year res- Aidan attends the Family Room Learn ident of Lakewood. Until recently, she Through Play Early Literacy Program. owned a business on Madison Avenue. The Family Room teaches Aidan to She and her husband have three share, to be more social and also to be children: Aidan, three, Corinna, four, comfortable with independent play. and Nicholas, fifteen. Of the Lakewood Aidan finds the rice table calming. Family Room, Justine said, “I think it’s Now that summer is here, Corrina one of the best assets in Lakewood.” and Aidan will make more trips to the Justine and her husband have no Family Room. immediate family in the area. Her pre- Justine plans to go back to school schoolers are twelve months apart. She and finish her counseling degree. She found that her husband was working wants to counsel children. She loves long hours. And, as she said, we have the fact that the Family Room staff long winters. “If I didn’t have The Fam- is warm and welcoming and that the ily Room, I honestly would feel lonely.” group is diverse. There are people from And when you’re home you are on the all backgrounds, all cultures, some phone, doing laundry, cleaning. “I born in other countries. “You have a wanted to give the kids a different envi- common bond when you’re at the Fam- ronment and get out of the house.” ily Room.” Presently, Corrina is in pre-school. Justine Cooper with Corinna, 4, and Aidan, 3.

Jessica Drayer and Robert Gross, Jr. with Alyssa 5, Aidan 3, Alek 22 months, and Angela Skourlis with Elizabeth 6, Katherine 4, Mary 3. Aryanna 10 months. Jessica wrote: “The Family Room Family Room Tuesday and Thursday The year is almost half over. The is the Lakewood Family Room. It is my is a place where parents can find sup- programs. Jessica gets to interact with holidays are a faint memory and I still safe haven. port, encouragement, and a connection other moms, socialize and see how have a feeling of gratitude in my heart. For those of you who are a part of to local resources without judgment. other moms do things. “It helps me It is a little unsettling because I cannot my life at The Lakewood Family Room, It is accepted that even great parents keep my sanity, get out of the house put my finger on why I am so thankful. I I am thankful for you. You have eased need help occasionally.” and be happier and balanced.” It gives pause and run through the list of family me into life’s chapter called parent- Twenty-two-year-old Jessica her children an opportunity to know and friends. I marvel as I start to catego- hood. You have held my hand, dried my Drayer, mother of three children, other children. “My kids love coming rize my thankfulness to them. As the list tears, sung songs, laughed, encouraged, ranging in ages from twenty-one to the Family Room. Alyssa gets upset takes form, I can see my topic sentence. I talked, and drunk endless cups of coffee months to five and a half years, moved if for some reason the family can’t get have gratitude in my heart because I am with me. When I look at you and see how to Lakewood eight and a half years ago. to the center.” thankful for my community in good ole wonderful you are, I hope you can look In Lakewood time, she’s a newcomer. Over the years, Jessica has sought Lakewood, Ohio. at me and see those same things. Jessica graduated from Lakewood and received assistance from Cindy Yes, Lakewood, the city where I was I have traveled the world at the Fam- High School and was a member of the Walsh, Licensed Independent Social raised; the city that I tried many times ily Room. I have friends from Germany, Flag Corps. Worker, and from Toni Gelsomino, to shake. I went to college and said, Russia, Thailand and Poland. I have Jessica attended a GRADS Pro- the Family Room Program Manager. “I never will go back to Lakewood!” I friends from little cow towns and friends gram at Lakewood High School for Of the services, she said, “I get the sup- went to the Rocky Mountains to find from major cities. Some friendships have young moms as well as attending the port I need. What’s important for me myself and shake a bad relationship and been fleeting, but some have developed Mommy and Me Teen Parent Drop- is the help that comes without judg- I proclaimed, “I will never set foot in into an extended family. We have shared In on Thursday evenings at Lakewood ment.” Lakewood!” I married and followed my births, deaths, birthdays and everything Hospital Childcare Center. With the Jessica and her fiancé, the father of husband and his job down South, and in between. Life breathes here. help of the GRADS Program, Jessica ten-month-old Aryanna, are attending I laughed, “We will never come back to At first glance, The Lakewood Fam- was linked to the CDBG scholarship a Parenting Education Series on Thurs- snow or Lakewood!” Yet, I always came ily Room can be overwhelming chaos. program to assist with the cost of child day evenings at the Family Room. Over back. Children run amuck and you may won- care for her daughter, Alyssa. “I got my the years, Jessica has been told that she Sometimes, I drive in my car der if they have a caretaker near. The best grade in my senior year,” said Jes- has problems because she’s young. and wonder what I am still doing in beauty is that we, the adults, are care- sica, proudly. Now that she’s in the parenting class Lakewood and I make plans to escape as takers to every child in the room. If you When Jessica’s son, Aidan, was where she listens to parents of all ages, soon as I can. Other days, I can never see give us a chance, let down your guard, born, she went to the Nursing Moms she said, “Raising children is difficult myself anywhere else. Here is my confes- we will welcome you. We will fold you in Chat program at the Lakewood Family no matter what age you are. Period.” sion—I have three young daughters and our arms and care for you and your chil- Room. Jessica felt pressured by some As for Jessica’s dreams for the we need this community. We have built dren. This strong community will mold of her peers and some older moms not future, she plans to attend nursing it and we will stay. you and let you remold us. to breast feed. Of the nursing moms school: “A lot of my focus is my chil- What is the community that I speak The Family Room was awaiting my group, Jessica said, “It was a place to dren being able to look up to me. I of? It is my family, my silver and my gold family. I found the diamond. I will stay get help and reinforcement.” want to give my children stability— friends, my neighbors, groups such as in Lakewood because of this precious Jessica and her children attend the financially and emotionally.” JWCL, and the LECPTA, but, mostly, it gem.

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Minding The Issues Right Song, Wrong Stanza For Celebrating Our Nation

Recently we’ve seen a controversy By Gordon Brumm impose his dogma on me (though to be about whether the Star-Spangled Ban- brutally honest, I can’t tell what his atti- ner should be sung in Spanish or only world? Are we celebrating “might” with tain ways of thinking in the minds of tude would be if Mormons controlled in English. But if it’s important to think no consideration of “right?” If these those who sing it. The first stanza of the government). I’d like to respond about the language in which the song are our convictions, they are better left “The Star-Spangled Banner” reinforces appropriately. is rendered, isn’t it even more impor- unexpressed. an unthinking tribal loyalty to our However, I’m left wondering. He tant to think about the song itself, about There is a better alternative, and it country, based only on the fact that it is says that I should believe in The Book what it means? is close at hand: OUR country. This narrow chauvinism of Mormon. But what if a Catholic sent If we thought about the words that Oh, thus be it ever, when free men puts us on the same plane as any other me a statement of Catholic doctrine? come out of our mouths when we sing shall stand nation, good, bad or indifferent. Any What if a mainstream Protestant sent the national anthem – specifically its Between their loved homes and the thought of a virtuous purpose is strictly me a statement of his or her church’s first stanza -- we’d realize that its only war’s desolation! an afterthought, added on to justify the doctrine? What if a Muslim sent me point is to celebrate and glorify victory Blessed with vict’ry and peace, may aggressiveness of the rest. Surely we can the Koran? Or if a Hindu sent me the in battle – it’s a song of war, exulting in our heav’n-rescued land do better than that. sacred writings of Hinduism? What victory over our foes, with only a one- should I say to them? They believe in line afterthought to show tentatively Has “Our country right or wrong” become our their own doctrines just as strongly as why we might deserve to be victorious. rationale -- a rationale that validates our acting the gentleman from Westlake believes If I didn’t know better, I might think in Mormonism. If I accepted The Book it’s the war song of some neo-Fascist with impunity in the world? of Mormon as truth, I would be show- group. Praise the Pow’r that hath made By contrast, the final stanza ing a regrettable lack of respect for these The Fourth of July, dedicated to and preserved us a nation! expresses dedication to values greater others. How can I respect all these per- commemoration of our nation’s ide- Then conquer we must, when our than mere national existence, values that sons and their doctrines equally – and I als, might be a good occasion to ask cause it is just, constitute our greatness and help justify believe they deserve equal respect – if I whether the Star-Spangled Banner And this be our motto: “In God is our claim to nobility. We profess to be accept any one of the doctrines as true? really expresses those ideals. our trust!” a nation grateful for its freedom and You can see my dilemma. This holiday is meant to celebrate And the Star Spangled Banner in intent on using that freedom to achieve The only way out is to recognize our nation’s virtues, its nobility of pur- triumph shall wave the best that humans are capable of. that no religious doctrines are true in pose, and its grand history wherein that O’er the land of the free and the That is the best and truest patriotism, the straightforward sense of that term. nobility and that virtue are displayed. home of the brave! and that is what the last stanza of “The Some would say that my religious doc- Why, then, do we mark it by singing a This of course is the splendid last Star-Spangled Banner” stands for. It is trine is “true for me;” but “true for me” song that only commemorates one par- stanza of “The Star Spangled Banner,” our proper anthem, and deserves to be is an oxymoron. If I say there is a tree ticular battle – a battle that was part of a as different from the first stanza as day recognized as such. on the lawn outside, my statement is stupid and futile war, a battle whose sole from night. This last stanza celebrates a either true or false. To say that it is true distinction is that it was one of the few nation dedicated to ideals derived from A Note on My for one person and false for another is that saved the War of 1812 from being a higher source, and it exhorts us to Religious Dilemma to ratify hallucination. remembered as an utter catastrophe. As measure our accomplishments against Which is to say that religion is a a patriotic emblem, the first stanza of those ideals. It honors the tragic but Recently a nice man in Westlake special part of our lives, and religious “The Star Spangled Banner” is a bust. noble sacrifices necessary to achieve sent me a copy, for my spiritual enlight- language is not like the language we As we habitually sing the words, do those ideals in a world where ideals are enment, of The Book of Mormon. This use in science or in our ordinary life. we really mean to imply that the most always in peril. was in response to my column “On the We may say our religious doctrines are important fact in our country’s history In saying “...conquer we must, Teaching of Religion.” In the accom- true, and indeed we may act as if they was that a banner flew over an embat- when our cause it is just” (not “for our panying note my benefactor said, are true, but we must realize that in tled fort after a long night of fighting? Is cause it is just”) the final stanza rejects essentially, that the Book or Mormon is doing so we mean “true” in a special mere victory in battle, regardless of our the “Our country, right or wrong” men- true because he knows it is true. figurative sense. And whereas scientific cause, what we wish to celebrate? Has tality. I appreciate the gesture of this man truth sometimes entitles the govern- “Our country right or wrong” become More than poetic taste is involved. from Westlake. I appreciate his generos- ment to regulate our lives in certain our rationale -- a rationale that vali- After all, the purpose of singing a ity, and I appreciate his simply presenting ways, the attribution of religious dates our acting with impunity in the national anthem is to reinforce cer- me with his thoughts instead of trying to “truth” never does.

Lakewood Hospital Names Bill Baddour Chief Operating Officer By Joe Grimberg the community,” says Fred DeGrandis, nity to help the hospital continue to chief executive officer and president provide high quality and innovative Westlake resident Bill Baddour of Lakewood, Fairview and Lutheran patient care to thousands of area resi- has been appointed chief operating hospitals. “He is a tremendous addi- dents.” officer at Lakewood Hospital. tion to Lakewood’s administrative Baddour earned an executive Lakewood Hospital’s Chief team. He will help ensure Lakewood MBA from Baldwin-Wallace Col- Administrative Officer Jack Gustin Hospital follows our vision of being lege and received his undergraduate made the announcement on June 5. the best place to receive care, the best degree from Cleveland State Univer- “Bill’s extensive background in health place to practice medicine and the sity. He grew up in the West Park area care administration, commitment to best place to work.” and graduated from St. Edward High quality and vision for the future will “Lakewood Hospital is a leader in School in Lakewood. be a great asset to Lakewood Hospi- northeastern Ohio’s health care com- Bill resides in Westlake with his tal,” says Gustin. “His dedication to munity,” says Baddour. “I’m looking wife and three children. working and partnering with com- forward to this wonderful opportu- munity organizations also makes him a perfect fit for our hospital.” Baddour most recently served as regional vice president of Opera- recently was the co-chair of the suc- tions/Operational Improvement for cessful Westlake City School’s May Fairview, Lakewood and Lutheran levy campaign. On a larger scale, he hospitals. Previously, he has served as served as co-chair for the Cleveland division administrator of the Opera- Clinic’s United Way campaign and tions Division at Cleveland Clinic. Red Cross initiatives Baddour is involved in numerous “Bill has proven himself to be an community organizations and most effective leader in the hospital and in

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Lakewood Culture

Literary Luchador An Interview With Lakewood Writer Fred Wright By Bob Ignizio If you want more, the other two So what can you expect from this still at it and improving the quality of days of the fest are Thursday, July 6, Lollapalooza of literature? “I have their product. Fred says, “Zines are still Born in Philadelphia in 1970, at Mac’s Backs in Cleveland Heights no idea what to expect beyond that it viable as a medium, but the zine world writer/musician Fred Wright eventu- (start time 7pm), and Saturday, July probably won’t be a typical literary is mostly left to the hardcore. From a ally settled down in NE Ohio after 8th, at Pat’s in the Flats in Tremont reading,” says Fred. “I actually like just mainstream media perspective they’ve completing college at Bowling Green (start time 9pm). Each night will fea- hearing a story or some poems, and I been covered already, so they tend to and grad school at Kent State. He’s ture about 10 different writers giving expect there’ll be some of that, but the get ignored. Thus one gets the impres- moved around the area a bit, but cur- 15 minute readings, and the final night ULA tends to enjoy more theatrical sion that no one does zines anymore, rently he’s settled down in Lakewood. at Pat’s in the Flats will feature writers performances. I guess a good descrip- but that’s not true.” Fred says, “Lakewood has a good vibe. backed up by local rock musicians like tion would be pro wrestling mixed Although Fred has published The folks tend to be a bit individual- Derek Deprator, Kong Sauce, and Kill with a Beat Generation poetry reading zines himself in the past, these days he istic, which I like, and it’s favorable to the Hippies. For a complete line-up for mixed with an updated version of the mostly writes for other people’s zines. walking, which is nice. There’s lots of all three nights, visit http://www.wred- Dadaists’ Cabaret Voltaire mixed with Fred says, “I still love zines, but I think cool art, literature, and music in town, fright.com/filf.html. a religious revival mixed with a party.” if I self-published again it’d probably and lots of cool artists, musicians, and The idea for the festival came Since the ULA believes that literature be a book. For all the work one does on writers that live here, making it an even about through Fred’s membership in should be a lively and democratic activ- a zine, once it reaches a certain level of cooler place.” the Underground Literary Alliance, ity, audience participation (including readership you might as well publish Fred’s doing his part to keep or ULA. “They’re a group of zinesters heckling) is encouraged. In addition to a whole book instead and have some- Lakewood cool, too. He’s put together who had become interested in the the live readings, the participants will thing that’s less ephemeral.” In fact, the three-day F Independent Literary intersections between zine publishing have books, zines and cds to trade and one of Fred’s last zines, a serialized Festival, a showcase for independent, and book publishing in the larger liter- sell. novel about a garage rock band called underground, and zine literature. ary world,” says Fred (“zines” are, you But why spend the money to pub- The Pornographic Flabbergasted Emus, Lakewood ‘s bela dubby coffee house guessed it, small magazine-style publish an actual print zine in the age of is scheduled for publication in book (13321 Madison Avenue) will be part lications, usually self-published by the the internet and blogging? Fred says, form through the ULA later this year. of the event. Writers from NE Ohio writer and reflecting their interests). “There are benefits and drawbacks to For more information about Fred, visit and across the country will be giv- “They wanted to attract attention to whatever medium one uses, but there’s http://www.wredfright.coml. For more ing readings there on Friday July 7th. the many talented writers toiling in the something still delightful about read- information on the ULA visit www.lit- The event gets underway at 8pm. The print underground, whom they con- ing a scruffy photocopied zine that eraryrevolution.com. line-up of performers for the evening is trasted with the writers of what they you can hold in your hand and stick The F Independent Literary Festi- Jack McGuane (Lakewood Poet Laure- considered to be a very corrupt corpo- in your pocket.” Although Fred sees val makes a stop at bela dubby on July ate), Willoughby, OH cartoonist Paul rate literary publishing world. To that fewer newcomers going the print route, 7th. Foresta, Frank Walsh (Philadelphia), end, they’ve started publishing books he says many longtime zinesters are Pat King (Alabama), Crazy Carl Robin- on their own.” In the past the ULA has son (Virginia), King Wenclas (Detroit), held events in New York, Philadelphia, Edna Million (Wisconsin), Mark Son- Chicago, and Detroit. This year, Fred nenfeld (New Jersey), Adam Hardin thought it was time the ULA came to Indulge Your Sweet Tooth (Illinois), and Fred himself. Cleveland and offered to organize it. with Some Candye Lakewood Music Events Calendar By Ruthie Koenigsmark Candye’s show on Saturday high- lighted songs from all seven of her CDs. The Winchester On Saturday, June 17, the Win- Her most recent release, “White Trash Thursday, June 29th it’s the Troubadours of Divine Bliss. This female gui- chester gave the stage to the infamous Girl,” is Candye’s guided tour through tar and accordion duo has been spreading their brand of folk music around Candye Kane. Haven’t heard of her? her eventful life. One of her singles the country and around the world since 1995 - “anywhere the spirit leads” they Well, if you hadn’t and you attended the from this CD–“Estrogen Bomb”–pro- proclaim on their website. Tonight the spirit had led them to the Winchester, show you aren’t soon to forget this vel- vided the audience with a sense of her where they’ll be doing a free show starting at 7pm. vet-voiced seductress of the blues with a wit and songwriting prowess. witty sense of humor and a message. One of the “moments” in the show Friday July 7th it’s Gnappy. This Ausitin, Texas-based band describe As Candye’s bio will tell you, she surely was Candye’s rendition of Buck themselves as “the bastard son of Tower of Power and Average White Band, was born in East L.A. to a hippie musi- Owens’ “Crying Time,” a tribute to a with a healthy dose of Wired-era Jeff Beck thrown in for good measure.” They cian father and a mother who taught dear friend and beautifully executed also incorporate elements of jazz, hip hop, and electronica for good measure. her to shoplift at a very young age. in spite of her failing vocal chords after The band released their third album, ‘Unloaded’, this year. Admission is $7 She was an unwed mother involved in an intensive three week tour, which and the show starts at 9:30pm. the gang culture, who then indulged included Cleveland’s Gay Pride Festi- in “modeling,” to help provide for her val. The Hi Fi Concert Club son appearing on the covers of over 150 When you listen to Candye, you Friday, June 30th it’s ZO2 with Blue Fire and Quickening. ZO2 features magazines, including Hustler. Candye learn a lot. For example, you learn it David Z, bassist for the Trans Siberian Orchestra. Drummer Joey Cassata has also wrote a monthly advice series for takes a whole lot of living to belt out a played with Las Vegas-based version of The Blue Man Group, and guitarist Gent Magazine. genuinely soulful tune. You also learn Paulie Z has fronted several NYC-based bands. But this group is making a She also began to pursue her that she is a strong woman–confident name for itself, having recently done a stint opening for KISS and Poison. dream of music finding her place in the and comfortable in her skin, which Opening the show are New York-based hard rockers Blue Fire and local indie country-punk music scene (in the 80’s). these days is something worth writing rock band Quickening. Contact the club for show time at (216) 521-8878. During this time, she shared the stage about. with musicians as diverse as Black Flag, To this show I brought one of The Phantasy Nite Club Social Distortion, Los Lobos, The Blast- those friends who goes anywhere new ers, Dwight Yoakum and Buck Owens. with a bit of hesitation. He said, “This Friday, June 30th Starloft presents a local rock showcase with Fuzion, Candye married Paladins bassist is one amazing show” and “when is she Adrenaline, Slither Monkey, The Disaster March, and The Carsons. The show Thomas Yearsley, settled down a bit, coming back?” Candye promised the starts at 9pm. If you get a flyer (you can print one out at www.starloft.com) had another son and became a Women’s audience that she would start her next admission is free for 21 and over, $5 for 16-20. If you don’t have a flier, it’s $5 Studies major at the local community tour in our area–so we could have the for 21 and over, and $8 for 16-20. Admission also gets you into the Symposium college. She continued to create music very best she has to offer. downstairs where you can catch Hot Ham and Cheese and Every Second. and discovered the musical stylings of And in case any of you were won- blues greats Big Maybelle, Big Mama dering, the message she has is love To get your event listed, contact Bob at [email protected]. Thornton, and Etta James. Candye yourself and each other! Thanks, Can- found her home singing the blues. dye!

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The Pulse Of The City The Storm of Change It was then that the soft July breeze, evening. Forty-two fatalities were weary world at the brink of the abyss. By Gary Rice cutting through the Lakewood sun- registered in Ohio, with seven in the Who was supposed to be giving this shine, stopped being a breeze. In fact, greater Cleveland area and several in help to others? In the case of my friend July 4th, 1969, started out like it stopped altogether. In all of my life, Lakewood, including a friend of mine who had died, it was felt that she might many other Fourth of July holidays on I have never experienced such a quiet from high school. one day have become a teacher. She was our stretch of the North Coast. Par- moment. In the days after the storm, trees always helping others. Who was left to ents, children, and volunteer groups Then it started. First, a roar were cut up, electricity was do the helping work in this world that prepared to march in parades, made began that sounded like restored, and debris was needed to be done? last-minute picnic preparations and a horrible freight swept away. Those Well... I was a blue-eyed son... coordinated with their friends as to train coming. of us devas- wasn’t I? where to meet that evening: down at From my van- tated by the That’s one of the big reasons I went Lakewood Park -- for the lakeside fire- tage point, loss of our into teaching. Over the years, hundreds works display. it looked f r i e n d s of children with special needs received As well, protesters across the coun- as if a solid had no help from a blue-eyed son; inspired try were preparing to express their g i g a nt i c , counselors partly by Bob, partly by Joan, and yeah, displeasure at America’s involvement gray wall of to turn to partly by my friend, and the terrible in Vietnam. What had begun as a fairly water was rap- back then. circumstances surrounding the events non-violent exercise in peaceful pro- idly approaching School was, of July 4th, 1969. test in the mid-sixties had degenerated from the north- after all, out for I had the opportunity to thank into an ugly, no-holds-barred confron- west. The band the summer. For Joan Baez personally (many years tational situation all over the nation. quickly started those of us recently later) for her part in my personal spiri- Lakewood had avoided much of the to put their graduated in the class of tual epiphany. It was too late to thank ugliness that had marred these pro- equipment into the ‘69, we had to grow up fast. my Lakewood friend. Besides, there are tests in other cities, but officials were house. In a few weeks, we would expe- some things that need to be done pri- understandably wary of potential civil And then, the rience the moon landing and vately – in the depth of one’s heart. I disobedience or violence, particularly “derecho” hit like new stories from Vietnam would elected not to publish her name today on public patriotic holidays. a sledgehammer. again dominate the headlines. Many because I did not want to intrude upon Unfortunately, the entire city was The word “dere- of our classmates would soon be in the her family, wherever they may be. The certainly not expecting the type of cho” was coined by ‘”Nam” in person. Others, like yours old-timers here in Lakewood know violence that would arrive at 7:00 pm Dr. Gustavus Hin- richs, truly, would move on to college. Still who died . . . we lost several of the best that evening. Ask anyone who lived a physics professor at the University of others would go on to jobs or building and the brightest of our youth that day. in Lakewood on that day and you will Iowa, in 1888. “Derecho” is a Spanish families. We survivors had a lot to measure up hear tales of utter terror, mixed with word which can be defined as “direct” In those weeks following the storm, to. Hopefully, most of us at least tried many tales of sorrow and heroism. or “straight ahead” while the word I spent a lot of time with my guitar, in to do so. I was with my band on Virginia “tornado” is thought by some to have the basement; wondering about the So many people never know how Avenue. Ordinarily, my band might been derived from the Spanish word meaning of life – how could friends our much they have inspired others to have been at the Lakewood Park band- “tornar” which means “to turn”. The age possibly be cut down? – at the very action. Perhaps it is enough that the shell, but we were playing the Virginia National Weather Service said that this point that their lives were beginning to action takes place. That day, July 4th, Avenue block party instead. Another North Coast disaster was the result of blossom? 1969, changed many lives forever, here band was going to play at the Lakewood a line of severe thunderstorms with I was into Bob Dylan songs back in Lakewood. The change is not only Park bandshell that day. I forget why we storm winds clocked in at 80 mph. then. One of these was “A Hard Rain’s etched into the minds of those who weren’t down at the bandshell; perhaps Some said 100 mph. It was bad enough A Gonna’ Fall”, as sung by Joan Baez. experienced it, but also in the lives of we had booked the Virginia engage- either way. While the song does mention tough those who were influenced by the infi- ment first. I do remember our playing Whatever it was, Lakewood (and times ahead, the last part of it is a call nite spirit of Goodness . . . the positive on a front porch and stopping for a most of the Ohio-Erie coastline) for action...the blue-eyed son who goes inspiration that grew out of a tragic break. went into an abyss of destruction that out before the rain comes, to help a event.

Gallery Watch Local Girl Gallery 16106 Detroit Avenue By Ruth A. Koenigsmark and Christine A. Kazimer 216.228.1802 Saturday July 15th 7-9pm is the opening reception of Akron artist Samara Gallery Events for June 27th through July 10th: Peddle. Her show is titled “STRIPPED SIMPLE”. Samara’s works are based on the nude female figure and it includes the basic mediums of oils, printmaking, watercolors, charcoal drawings, photography and collage. Her work will be fea- Beck Center For The Arts tured throughout July. Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 12-5pm, Friday and Saturday, 12-6pm. 17801 Detroit Avenue 216.521.2540 Pop Shop Gallery and Studio “Bold Intentions” is an exhibit by local Cleveland Photographer Greg Terepka from June 21 - July 23. Bold Intentions displays an intimate viewpoint of ten rela- 17020 Madison Avenue tively common flowers to highlight their intense depth of color, fine texture and 216.227.8440 remarkable lines from an uncommon perspective. Pop-O-Matic show is to run through July 15th. Please note new gallery hours. Hours: Monday-Friday 4pm-8pm, Saturday 2pm-6pm. bela dubby Wobblefoot Gallery and Frame Studio 13221 Madison Avenue 216.221.4479 1662 Mars Avenue Opening July 15, Noon-Midnight, entitled “No Surf in Cleveland” A Visual 216.226.2971 history of skateboarding in Northeast Ohio. . .Subculture on Display. . .Celebrat- Showcasing the master watercolorist and book illustrator, Tim O’Connor. ing 35+ years of skateboarding subculture in Northeast Ohio. 1968-1996. He has worked for Walt Disney, Walter Lantz, and Dr. Suess, illustrated for the Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 am – 10 pm, Friday and Saturday Moody Bible Institute and many others worldwide. 10am-midnight. Hours: Tuesday – Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 10am-4pm. Art gallery news and event information should be forwarded to [email protected]. Every effort will be made to include it in our next column.

Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com June 27, 2006 The Lakewood Observer Page 15

Chef Goeff Walking the Plank The grill is the cooking appli- By Jeff Endress ance of choice during the summer. Whether you use a Weber kettle, gas or even electric, most homes have the Ginger Planked Scallops requisite tools for outdoor cooking. Turn on the gas, or light the charcoal, (serves six) and in short order, those burgers are sizzling over an open flame and • Large Diver scallops--approximately 2 Lbs. mouths are beginning to water. There (allow 4-6 per person, depending on size) is probably nothing that conjures up rinsed, drained and patted dry the image of Americana so much • 1 cup dry white wine as a backyard barbeque. However, • 1/4 cup freshly grated ginger root (DO NOT substitute dried powdered ginger) after a few months of simple grilled • 1/4 cup soy meats and veggies, we become some- • 1 fi nely minced clove garlic what jaded with our outdoor cooking • 2 tbsp honey experience. “Not burgers again!” “Let’s have spaghetti....please?” CombineCombine marinademarinade ingredients,ingredients, stirringstirring toto combinecombine well.well. InIn a shallow,shallow, non-reactivenon-reactive dishdish (glass),(glass), placeplace sscallopscallops iinn So those of us who love our out- a single layer and pour marinade over. Allow to marinate 2 hours, turning once half way through. doors cooking experience add some variety, upping the culinary ante. Place Cedar or Alder planks (soaked overnight) on grill over a medium fi re. Arrange scallops in a single layer, We throw in some hardwood chips allowing space between. Close grill cover, and allow to cook 15-20 minutes. If smoke production indicates the and let the aromatic smoke add a planks are burning, douse any fl ames with a spray bottle. Scallops are done when they are no longer translucent, new dimension to the flavors. We and are fi rm to the touch. Serve with risotto or couscous, grilled zucchini haves (cooked while scallops are marinate the meat allowing the fla- cooking), a fresh romaine lettuce salad and a crisp Chardonnay.l vors of wine and herbs permeate the gaining such popularity, with dozens overnight. This can be a simple as will benefit from planking. A simple chicken or chops, and mix a variety of cook books dedicated to “plank- water, or for more complex results, rub of some fresh herbs, a littler salt of dry herbs and spices and massage ing”, many suppliers of the necessary other liquids, including beer or wine. and pepper, and your meat is ready to this rub into the ribs. The variants lumber, and a significant array of Then, it’s simply a matter of prepar- be planked. Some in my household are bounded only by your imagina- websites devoted to discussion and ing the grill as usual, putting a little have an aversion to the smell of scal- tion and add a level of depth to the recipes. olive oil on the food side of the plank, lops being cooked in the kitchen, and grilling experience that palates tired The beauty of plank cooking is and placing the plank over the coals since they are my favorite seafood, I of simple grilled burgers will appre- twofold. Not only is there the addi- and the food on the plank. Because have taken those tasty morsels out- ciate. tion of a gentle smoke to the flavor, you will develop some smoke and side and found that a little ginger Grilling food is, of course, the old- but as the soaked board gives up its steam, it is best to keep the grill marinade and a water logged cedar est method of cooking, and as should moisture, the food is actually more covered. The water logged wood plank can add significantly to their be expected, there exist techniques steamed than grilled. And despite the will smolder, but check occasion- flavor and my enjoyment. that are just as ancient. Sometimes unique addition to your repertoire ally to assure that it hasn’t become those methods, while still employed as a grill master, there is no further a conflagration. There is no turning R E N R O C in certain areas, go largely unused or addition of time or effort; it is truly required, although plank cooking undiscovered by the mainstream. One AROUND THE a win-win situation. Typically, thin, time will take a bit longer then direct such “new” cooking method which is 1/2 inch planks of cedar or alder are heat, but the additional few minutes somewhat of a fad is “plank cook- used. Due to the new-found popular- are well worth it. The planks are gen- ing”. Hardly a new technique, plank ity, those planks are readily available, erally not consumed by a single use, cooking has been used for centuries, both locally and through the inter- and may be reused until the char on Great Food, particularly by the Native Americans net. Heinen’s Rocky River carries the wood, or a burn through, renders of the Pacific Northwest who discov- Wings, & Fish Frys! cedar planks (at the seafood dept.) the plank unusable. If you are reusing ered the benefits of planking their and cedar, as well as alder are also a plank, make sure that the food side fresh caught salmon on alder boards, MONDAYS available through a number of web has been well scrubbed with warm and cooking the fillets over hot coals. 2-4-1 sites, including Tasty Timbers (www. water to remove any remains of the Burgers The technique has continued among tastytimbers.com) and the heritage prior use. This is best accomplished the locals for centuries, and has been workshop (www.theheritagework- immediately after use. OPEN FOR LUNCH “discovered” by a number of chefs shop.com/cedar_cooking_plank. Traditionally, the meat of choice who have brought this innovation Breakfast Brunch htm). for plank cooking was salmon. This into the mainstream. Once you have Saturday 11-2 Once the planks are in hand, still remains true, given the influence tried plank cooking on your grill, you Sunday 9:30-2 the only preparation they require is of the Pacific Northwest, but I have will understand why the technique is 18616-20 Detroit, Lakewood a good thorough soaking, preferably found that any fish (or even chicken) 216-521-4413 �� GET 1 �� Buy 1 FREE ��

Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 16 The Lakewood Observer June 27, 2006