www.oldbrooklyn.com November 2009 Volume 31; Number 9 Veterans Day, 2009 – OBN remembers fallen World War II vet from James Ford Rhodes by Myra Stone, Librarian tures of Rhodes soldiers in all branches of James Ford Rhodes High School the military. Every Rhodes commencement ceremo- When Donald signed the book, he stat- ny has its own special memories. At the last ed that his present leave from the military commencement exercise at the Cleveland was ending. We believe that he made Convention Center on June 7th, graduates arrangements to receive his diploma at the witnessed something they’ll never forget — 1944 graduation because he is listed in the posthumous awarding of the high school Rhodes’ 1944 yearbook. He missed his grad- diploma of a Rhodes grad who died in World uation because of the “D-Day” invasion of War II. the Normandy coast of France. Pvt. Donald D. Owens was killed in a Donald Owens served in the 773 Tank tank explosion on October 9, 1944, near Division, 90th Division. The men in it Luneville, France. Until recently he has been entered France through Normandy and listed at the Lorraine American Cemetery in fought their way across France. Pvt. Owens, St. Avold, France as “missing”. Now that his along with two other soldiers, was killed in a Photo by Sheila Quealy-Walter “dog tags” have surfaced, students, staff, tank explosion in what history calls the For the 15th year, giant Transformer-like figures are displayed in Pete Marin’s front yard at family members and members of the com- “Battle of the Bulge”. One soldier’s remains 4807 Wichita Ave. Optimus Prime and Bumble Bee will be there through November 8th. munity have had the opportunity to pause to were found just three years ago, and Pvt. belatedly thank one of their own. Donald D. Owens’ tags surfaced after that. Old Brooklyn CDC conducts annual meeting Donald D. Owens attended Rhodes They are now in the hands of the US High School from 1940-43. From the Military JPAC (Joint Prisoner of War and by Robyn Sandys In terms of the financial picture for the Rhodes Archives, we discovered that he Missing in Action Accounting Command) [email protected] CDC, it couldn’t be better. Revenue topped played varsity football, basketball and was a for DNA analysis. The remains of a third $1,003,802 with expenses at $948,696 Boy’s Leader. In March of 1943, just two soldier are still missing. Old Brooklyn Community which left an operating net surplus of over months shy of graduation, Donald left This story could not have unfolded Development Corporation (OBCDC) held $55,000. Rhodes to serve his country. At the age of were it not for the efforts over the years of its annual meeting on October 20th at the Besides telling the membership and seventeen, he voluntarily enlisted in the US Gerard Louis of Luneville, France. Gerard, Knights of Columbus Hall on Broadview community about all of the CDC’s success Army and was sent to basic training in Camp now in his 60s, was always captivated by the Rd. The K of C’s past Grand Knight Leo this year, there was some business conduct- Mead, Maryland. story of the tank and its occupants. He was Hansen graciously permitted OBCDC to use ed. The membership elected to its board two From what we have been able to piece determined to locate the remains of the sol- the space for free. There were about 45 peo- brand new board members — April Beates, together, Donald was hoping to return to diers as his way of saying thank you to the ple in attendance that learned about the the Marketing Director for Paran Rhodes to receive his diploma. His perma- United States for saving France during CDC’s activities this past fiscal year, from Management which owns and operate the nent record card states that he had complet- World War II. Gerard told me that he has July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2009. Memphis Fulton Shopping Center; and Jeff ed all the requirements for a high school been searching in the Forest of Parroy for Some of the key highlights included Kipp, the Executive Director of the Living in diploma. the past nine years. OBCDC’s completion of a new three-year Cleveland Center. Jeff and his family reside We know that Donald returned to Near the end of October, 2008, I strategic plan this past summer. A copy of in Old Brooklyn as well. The Living in Rhodes on Jan. 14, 1944 because he signed received a phone call from Duane that plan as well as the Annual Report can be Cleveland Center’s focus is to market and the “Blue Book” which was kept in the Main Thomascik, about the 90th Division found on the web site at promote Cleveland’s neighborhoods. Office. This book contains over 600 signa- See Veterans Day page 4 www.oldbrooklyn.com. The remaining three board members The strategic plan includes a number of were appointed during the year but needed goals OBCDC would like to accomplish by to be elected at this meeting — Theresa 2012. They include: Martin, a resident of Old Brooklyn who $900,000 in residential investment and works for Key Bank in their community $500,000 of commercial investment facili- development division; Jeffrey Rhodes, tated by the CDC; another resident of Old Brooklyn. Jeff teach- Increasing the number of people receiv- es at North Royalton High School; and ing CDC services from the current 2,750 a Christina Seabold, who also resides in Old year to 4,200; Brooklyn and works for Cleveland Increasing the number of people Metroparks. engaged with the CDC family from about After the meeting, OBCDC’s board 4,800 to 8,500; held a brief board meeting to elect officers The Master Plan for the CDC’s service for this coming fiscal year. Greg Huth will area was also reviewed as well as other plan- See Annual Meeting page 6 ning studies such as the Transportation of Liveable Communities which focuses on the W. 25 Street/Pearl RD. corridor from Lorain Ave. to Brookpark Rd. Again, all of these Inside the OBN studies can be found on the CDC’s web site. Some other key highlights of the year Community Spotlight; Desk of Frank Smith has again set up Heggs House of Horror, his hand-crafted, over-the-top included the “All Access” Home and the Executive Director; Halloween decorations, in front of and on the side lot of his home at 1608 Merl Ave. Bicycle Tour in July. It was a fun-filled day Community Meetings 2 Photos by Sheila Quealy-Walter where over 175 people went on Lolly the Trolley tours of the area as well as bicyclists News & Events; SNR 3 touring area attractions such as historical homes, parks, trails, area local shops and so CWRU Mural 4 forth. Benjamin Franklin Community Garden Town Crier; Church Merging 5 was also discussed as they now have received the award from the Cuyahoga County Fair two years in a row for “Best Commercial News; Community Garden.” This past year the OLGC & Art House; Mayor and those from all around the city Letter to the Community 6 toured the garden. OBCDC and Ward 16 Councilman Community Toolbox; Kevin Kelley sponsored three “Movie Residential Wind Turbine 7 Nights Under the Stars” this past summer which were a great success and fun for fam- Italian American Article; ilies throughout the area. Theater Notes 8 The CDC also purchased and is rehab- Family Fun 9 bing its first home on Tampa Ave. and will be pursing additional homes to rehab and Senior & Church Notes 10 sell. The home is expected to be completed Specters, tombstones, skeletons, a witch and pumpkins join the colorful autumn plantings at later this fall and hopefully sold by early Classified & Service Directory 11 this home on W. 14th St. at Merl Ave. for another outstanding Halloween display. next year. PAGE 2 OLD BROOKLYN NEWS NOVEMBER 2009
provided the impetus for restoring the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail; it now has From the desk of the national recognition as a National Heritage Corridor. Eventually their vision for the Canal executive director was extended all the way south to Zoar. by Robyn Sandys After gaining experience from these proj- [email protected] ects, Jeff was contacted by people to brain- November, the month where we give storm about how to preserve an area of the thanks. First a heartfelt thanks to all of our Jeff Lennartz – West Creek valley -- the last big chunk of members and volunteers who share your time throughout the CDC’s service area. woods in Parma -- which was being threatened and energy on behalf of Old Brooklyn and We also had a very successful Fall-O- Community Activist with development by a proposed golf course. Brooklyn Centre. I also want to thank our staff, Ween event on October 24th. There were over (West Creek is a north-flowing tributary board and City Council reps as well as the City 600 families there who all had a splendid time. by Donnald Heckelmoser The first 300 children received a free goodie and Lynette Filips of the Cuyahoga River, rising in Broadview of Cleveland Community Development and Planning Departments. Without all of YOU we bag and a hot dog meal. There was a costume [email protected] Hts., and passing through Parma and Brooklyn would not be doing our best to serve the nearly contest, pumpkin decorating, games, entertain- lynettef@old brooklyn.com Hts., before it empties into the Cuyahoga in Independence near the base of Schaaf Rd. 20,000 households that make up OBCDC’s ment and more. Jeff Lennartz is an Old Brooklyn resident Hill.) service area. Our home on Tampa has a new roof; stop on by at 2915 to take a look. The inside is com- who has a long history of successful communi- Again Jeff was in a situation where he Before we know it, it will be 2010. Do you pletely torn up and gutted. Work is expected to ty activism in the area of conservation. Over could be useful because he knew the areas. believe ten years have passed already this centu- be completed in about four to six weeks. This is the years, he’s helped to preserve forests, West Creek Preservation Committee was ry! It seems just like yesterday that we were a wonderful family home that will be totally like watersheds, canals and creeks, and helped to formed in 1997 and the committee began to lay worrying about Y2K! I am going on my 15th new inside and out with a great yard facing east develop trails. out a plan, lobby and petition for the West year as a Northeast Ohio resident. I moved to with loads of sunshine. It will sell for in the high Jeff has lived in Parma and the Old Creek Valley. The group was able to get three Cleveland in December of 1994. I lived down- town my first year and have worked for non- $50’s. If you know of someone that is interest- Brooklyn neighborhood his entire life. Now a measures put on the Parma ballot and to pass ed, have them call the CDC at 216-459-1000. Chemical Engineer, he’s had a love for the out- two (in 1998 and 2000) of the three. profits within the City of Cleveland ever since. This by far is my most challenging and exciting Finally, check out Jeff Rhodes (OBCDC doors since wandering through the woods of Throughout this time, the Committee was Board member) eco friendly energy saving Parma (and other areas of the county) as a garnering more and more support, and eventu- adventure yet. Thank you all for helping us do our best. home on Behrwald. The article on page 7 child; this hobby continued through college. ally the support of the administrations in neigh- We had a successful Annual Meeting in describes the ground breaking work he has After graduating from college, Jeff came boring communities. With Jeff and the October; you can read more about that on the completed in order to save some energy at to understand that all this beautiful green space Committee having helped to define the specif- front page. We are home. This could be the first home wind mill in was slowly being replaced with housing, shop- ic area to be protected, Parma formally invited looking forward to working with our new board Cleveland. ping and other development projects, so he the Metroparks to manage the park land, that members. We have an excellent group repre- Have a Happy Thanksgiving! occurred in 2006. The Metroparks’ signage and joined groups that care about the outdoors and senting institutions, businesses and residents its preservation. He led hikes for the Cleveland entrance to the park is on the south side of Hiking Club, volunteered for the Metroparks, Ridgewood Dr. between Broadview Rd. & and became a member of the Sierra Club of State Rd. Jeff continues to sit on the board of COMMUNITY MEETINGS Cleveland and the Nature Conservancy. West Creek Valley Preservation Committee. Like-minded individuals connected Jeff Jeff is now helping “Friends of Big Brooklyn Centre Naturalists meeting, Sat., Second District Police Community with Tom Yablonsky and Mike Giangrande and Creek”, (www.friendsofbigcreek.org) formed Nov. 14th, 2:30 - 4:30 pm, Cleveland Public Relations meeting, Tues., Nov. 10th (& every they formed North Cuyahoga Valley Corridor in 2005, to continue preserving and connecting Library, 3545 Fulton Rd. Working meeting to second Tues.), 7 pm, Applewood Center, 3518 coordinate fall & winter activities. Contact W. 25th St. in 1985. This group recognized that the Flats areas around the Big Creek watershed. Brooklyn Centre Naturalists, on the north end and the Cuyahoga Valley Jeff is one of numerous people in this area [email protected], for more info. Southwest Citizens Area Council meeting, every National Recreation Area on the south end who see the need to preserve green space and first Thurs., 7 pm, Gino’s, 1314 Denison Ave. were growing into large-scale tourist destina- natural amenities to help improve the quality of Brooklyn Genealogy Club - Brooklyn Branch, tions. They wanted to link these attractions life in communities. He’s taken his love of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, 4480 Ridge Ward 15 Democratic Club meeting, Tues., Nov. 24th (& every fourth Tues.), 6:30 pm, and highlight and revitalize everything in outdoors and turned it into a successful volun- Rd., Sat., Nov. 14th, 2 - 4 pm. Topic: "Pennsylvania Researching - How to research in Estabrook Recreation Center, 4125 Fulton Rd. between. teer career – ensuring that certain woodland the Keystone State"; Speaker- Among other things, the group was dedi- areas will be protected and preserved. Carol Williams. Call 440-734-2021 with any Ward 16 Democratic Club meeting Tues., cated to promoting the concept that woodland Having such areas helps to bring in visi- questions. Visitors welcome. Nov. 17th (& every third Tues.), 7 pm, Gloria areas in urban settings should be viewed as tors, attract new residents and new businesses Dei Lutheran Church, 5801 Memphis Ave. amenities. One of their first successes was the and is one of the pieces of the puzzle for suc- The Historical Society of Old Brooklyn annual Metroparks’ establishment of the Ohio and cessful neighborhood revitalization. Jeff potluck supper, 6 pm, Fri., Nov. 13th, Pearl Road United Methodist Church, 4200 Pearl Rd. (Use Erie Canal Reservation in 1999. encourages other people to become involved in rear entrance off parking lot.) Members are Don’t be the turkey The group also thought that trails should preserving our woodland amenities, too. encouraged to bring an item of historical, at the table be developed to link canals, valleys and wood- If you would like to get involved with one genealogical or antique interest for the show-and- lands. After a few years, Tim Donovan was of the neighborhood preservation groups, call tell segment of the evening. Call president hired to head the effort and the group’s name the Old Brooklyn Community Development Connie Ewazen, 398-8969, with any questions. Mario’s Corporation at 216-459-1000. was changed to Ohio Canal Corridor. They Old Brooklyn Community Development BARBER SHOP Corporation board meeting, Nov. 24th (& 4764 Broadview & Oak Park every fourth Tues.), 7:30 pm, OBCDC meet- OLD BROOKLYN NEWS 3344 Broadview Rd. ing room (3344 Broadview Rd., upstairs). 661-7533 Cleveland, Ohio 44109 Meetings open to public for review & com- GRAND OPENING is The Old Brooklyn News (216) 459-0135 ments, but board reserves right to close por- $ “Dan” will publish its tions of meetings from public. Nov. date may SPECIAL 10 change call 216-459-1000 to confirm. back December, 2009 issue on Circulation 15,000 Friday, December 4th, 2009 Published Monthly Senior Citizens website: www.oldbrooklyn.com email: [email protected] Valley Road Villa Apartment The Old Brooklyn News (OBN) is a monthly publication of the Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation (OBCDC) 1 Bedroom $494 - $560 and is available free of charge within the community boundaries of Submission Deadlines Brooklyn Centre, Old Brooklyn & City of Brooklyn. The views 2 Bedrooms $608 - $689 expressed in the OBN are not necessarily those of its publisher, edi- Display Ads . . . . . Mon., Nov. 23rd tor, staff, or of the board of trustees, officers, or commercial, resi- Classified Ads . . . .Wed., Nov. 25th dential, institutional or associate members of OBCDC. 4146 Valley Road Call (216) 398-4430 TTY 800-750-7300 Reproduction of published material without the consent of for more information News Releases . . . Wed., Nov. 25th OBCDC is prohibited. Advertisers and Agencies assume all legal For Information call 216-459-0135 responsibility and liability concerning offers, artwork, and any and Some applications available for immediate rental. all text published in contracted display, classified or other advertise- E-mail: [email protected] ments. The OBN is a charter member of the Neighborhood and Others taken for waiting list. Section 8 available Community Press Association of Greater Cleveland. FAX NUMBER 216-459-1741 INCLUDES All Utilities Carpeting Electric Range Refrigerator Beauty Shop Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation Visiting Nurse Monthly Party & Game Rooms Cable Available Library Planned Social Activities Pets Allowed MISSION STATEMENT: We are committed to uniting, engaging and empowering the community to improve the economic vitality and quality of life within the Old Brooklyn and Brooklyn Centre neighborhoods SMC MANAGEMENT CO. Office Hours: Mon - Fri 9-5 Greg Huth, President, Lynea Derwis, Vice President, Terrell Cole, Secretary, Theresa B. Martin, Treasurer Robyn Sandys, Executive Director Cynthia Cejka, Office Manager Tom Collins, Commercial Manager Season’s Greetings from David Fox, Real Estate Manager Donnald Heckelmoser, Jr., Program Services Manager Our Family to Yours! Lori Peterson, Residential Marketing Manager Sheila Quealy-Walter, Residential Code Manager oin our family of satisfied customers. As an independent agency, we tailor the Barb Spaan, Outreach Manager best insurance protection at competitive prices. We represent only the finest Sandy Worona, Community Outreach Coordinator/OBNAdvertising & Sales Manager insurance companies, like Auto-Owners. The “No Problem” People. Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation Board Meetings, are every fourth Tues. of Ask us about the many other advantages of doing business with an the month, 6-7:30 pm. OBCDC meeting room (3344 Broadview Rd., upstairs). Meetings open to the public but the board reserves the right to close portions of the meetings. To confirm call 216-459-1000. independent insurance agency. Old Brooklyn News Auto-OOwners Insurance Sandy Worona -- Layout & Ad Manager; Lynette Filips -- Copy Editor; George Shuba -- Photographer Life Home Car Business This month’s Proofreader--Cynthia Cejka The No Problem People This month’s OBN writers -- Jennifer Berardinelli, Maria Dimengo, Lynette Filips, Myra Stone, Matthew Wilder & OBCDC staff OBCDC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that serves the communities of Brooklyn Centre and Old Brooklyn- 3505 East Royalton Rd. Broadview Hts. Ohio 44147 For more information regarding services and projects call 216-459-1000. (440)526-5700 NOVEMBER 2009 OLD BROOKLYN NEWS PAGE 3 NEWS & EVENTS Monday, November 2nd Friday, November 20th Saturday December 5th Mon. - Fri., 10 am - 2 pm. Resale shoppe open Cuyahoga Valley Genealogy Society 2nd Annual Noche de Gala Tropical Gift Boutique Mon, Wed. & Fri., 10 am - 2 pm. Call 216-749- Independence Civic Center, White Oak Room, Renaissance Cleveland Hotel, 24 Public Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2928 4295 for appointment for help with completing 6363 Selig Blvd., 7:30 pm. Speaker, coffee & Square, 6 pm - 1 am. Latin Grammy award- Scranton Rd., (corner of Scranton & Seymour), food stamp applications or walk-in & ask to refreshments. All welcome; call president John winning artist Milly Quezada & her orchestra. 10 am - 4 pm. Tables -- $15. speak to an outreach advocate. Applications Stoika, 216-524-3472, for more info. VIP reception, dinner & dance - $150; light will be completed & delivered to Dept. of Jobs meal & dance - $55. Also silent auction, prize Saturday, December 5th & Family Services. Other outreach services Thursday, November 5th drawings & more. Proceeds support Spanish Holiday Brunch with St. Nicholas & Santa available; call for details. Genealogy Lecture American Committee programs & services. St. Mary Byzantine, 4600 State Rd., 10 am - 1 Independence branch, Cuyahoga County pm. Pictures with St. Nicholas & Santa Claus. Ready, Set, Grow Preschool Public Library (CCPL), 6361 Selig Dr., 7 - Saturday November 21st All you can eat pancake & sausage brunch. Located in Brooklyn Heights United Church of 8:30 pm. CCPL’s Genealogy Specialist Joni "Women of Purpose" Brunch Prices -- adults, $7; children (10 & under), $5. Christ, 2005 W. Schaaf Rd. Ages 3 - 5. Learning Mihelich discussing importance of recording Vine Bible Fellowship, 3510 Broadview Rd., Call 216-749-7980 to reserve a seat. & social skills for kindergarten readiness. personal & family history. Learn tips & tools to 10 am - noon. Time of refreshing for all Certified teachers. Registration fee, $25. Class turn memories into memoirs. Free. women. Words of encouragement, fellowship, Saturday, December 5th times, 9:20 - 11:20 am. Call 216-741-2280 for prayer, food, fun & prizes; free. Bring a friend First Ohio City Christmas Walk more info. Saturday November 7th & dessert, salad or casserole to share. RSVP to Bridge Ave., Jay Ave. & Fulton Rd. between Czech Holiday Fair Teresa, 216-799-9769, or e-mail mvg4wrd @ W. 28th St. & W. 30th St.; 6 - 10 pm. Advance Our Lady of Good Counsel School Czech Cultural Center of Sokol Greater Cleveland, gmail.com. ticket purchases: $18, individual; $32, couple; Registration for Kindergarten & Preschool Bohemian National Hall, 4939 Broadway Ave., 10 day of event: $20, individual; $35, couple. Are you interested in an excellent Catholic am - 4 pm. Czech & Slovak gifts, traditional Czech Free Flu & Pneumonia Shots Ticket pickup & sales begin one hour before Education? Call now for a tour & registration packet holiday food for purchase, special pastry, cash bar For people living in Cleveland who: are event at Ohio City Blooms, 1909 West 25th St. for the upcoming 2009-2010 school year. with Czech beer, music by Al Machusik. Call Dot between 6 months & 18 years old; 50+ years or Park in lot behind Ohio City Blooms' rear Kindergarten registrants must be 5 yrs old by Sept. Cummings, 440-526-7730, for more info. older; have a long-term illness (high blood pressure, liver, heart or lung disease, diabetes, entrance; lot may also be used night of 30, 2009. Cleveland Tutoring & Scholarship vouch- asthma, pregnancy, cancer or a weakened Christmas walk. Call Ben Trimble, 216-781- ers are accepted as well as county vouchers for pre- Saturday November 7th immune system); live with or take care of 3222 Ext. 5, or visit ocnw.org or ohiocity.com school/after care. Call Ms. Patty at 216-741-3685 Ashley's Hope Annual Children's Resale someone who is 0-5 yrs old, 50+ years old or for tickets/more info. between 8:15 am & 2:30 pm for more info. Visit web- Grace Church, 7393 Pearl Rd., Middleburg Hts. have a long-term illness. site www.olgoodcounsel.com for up to date info. Early bird preview, 8:30 - 9:30 am; $2 admission. Every Friday, now thru - Dec. 29, City of Cleveland, Division of Police, General admission, 9:30 am - 1 pm; $1. Basket raf- McCafferty Health Center, 4242 Lorain Citizen On-line Reporting System St. Leo Preschool Registrations fles & food. To purchase a table, donate a raffle item Ave., 8 - 11 am; 216-651-5005. As of July 7th, file your own police report on- 2009-2010 School Year or for more info, call Jennie or Donna, 216-661- St. James Lutheran Church, 4771 line for the following types of incidents/crimes St. Leo Preschool is located at 4940 Broadview Rd in 6585, or email [email protected] or vol- Broadview Rd., Sat., Oct. 31, 12 - 2 pm; 216- 351-6499. -- lost property; damage to property; criminal the Parish Community Center. The preschool offers [email protected]. Estabrook Recreation Center, 4125 Fulton damaging; petty theft/theft from a motor vehi- programs for skill development & kindergarten readi- Pkwy., Sat., Nov. 7, 12 - 2 pm; 216-664- cle; supplemental reports. These types of ness for 3 & 4 year-old children. A full-day 8 am.- Sunday November 8th 4149. reports may be made only if there is no suspect, 2:30 pm. Mon. - Fri. program is available, with after Wooden Churches of the Carpathians Merrick House, 3167 Fulton Rd., Thurs., suspect vehicle, or serial number information. school care at an additional charge. In addition to the Carpatho-Rusyn Heritage Museum, 1900 Dec. 3, 10 am - 12 pm; 216-281-4212. To make an on-line report go to full day program, Mon., Wed., Fri. half-day classes Carlton Rd. Parma, 2 pm. Presentation by Call 216-664-4621 or visit www.cleveland- www.city.cleveland.oh.us/police & click on the are available for 4 year-old children. Tues., Thurs., Professor F. William Lucak, then explore the health.org for more locations & dates. crime reporting link. You must be 18 years old half-day classes are available for 3 year-old children. building which embodies the faith & spirit of & have an e-mail address. Children must be of age by Sept. 30. County vouch- the Rusyn people. Free, but donations appreci- Cuyahoga County seeks tax preparation ers are accepted. A $50 nonrefundable fee & a copy ated. Visit www.c-rs.org for more info. volunteers - training provided Corpus Christi Class of 1968 & 1969 Reunion of the child's birth certificate are required at the time Volunteer tax preparers needed for the V.I.T.A. Planning a reunion before the parish closes. Contact of registration. For more info., call Jeanne Sabol at Wed., Nov. 11th, Sat., 21st & Sat., Dec. 12th site at the corner of Memphis Ave. & Fulton Janice (Gulan) Havasi “68” at 216-267-3812. 216-661-5330. St. Peter Chanel High School events Pkwy. Both classroom & web-based training 480 Northfield Rd. Scholarship/Entrance provided beginning in late November. Tax America Reads Tutors St. Mary Byzantine School Registration Exams - Wed., Nov. 11th, 6 pm - 9 pm; Sat., returns for the Old Brooklyn V.I.T.A. site are Cleveland Public Library, South Brooklyn St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Elementary School, Nov. 21st, 9 am - noon; Sat., Dec. 12th, 9 am simple; training is not difficult. If interested Branch, 4303 Pearl Rd. Tutors from Cleveland 4600 State Rd., now accepting applications for pre- - noon. Cost of exam - $20. Call Scott Gongos, call 216-987-6620 or email: State University available to help school age school - grade 8. Before/after school services avail- 440-232-5900, ext. 144, to reserve a seat. [email protected]. children available Tues., Wed. & Thurs. until able. Local tuition assistance available to all families; Open House -- Sun, Nov. 15th, noon - 3 pm; the end of the school year. Call 216-623-7067 participates in Cleveland Scholarship & Tutoring refreshments served; free; no reservations Ohio Cemetery Alliance Contest to make appointment. Program. Updated computer lab, interactive Smart required. For a $10 donation to Ohio Cemetery Alliance, Boards in all classroom, instrumental music & art submit your name (or a friend or relative's name) WSEM Food Center instructor, athletics & more. Call 216-749-7980 or Thursday, November 12th to be used as a character in the next "Les WSEM Food Center at Brookside, 3784 Pearl visit www.smbyz.org. Antique Collectors Club Meeting Roberts" novel. Visit Rd., 216-749-4295. Food service available Busch Funeral meeting room, 7501 Ridge Rd., www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~ohca/ to purchase 7 pm. Jim Lewandowski (new curator of Arts, your chance. The author will pick the winning Schools as Neighborhood Resources moves Crafts & Antiques at Cuyahoga County Fair) speak- name on Dec. 5, 1:30 pm. at Visible Voice ing about World Fairs; guests welcome. Books, 1023 Kenilworth Ave., Tremont. Winner The Schools as Neighborhood Resource Thursdays; David Csomos teaches that class. will receive an autographed copy of the book. (SNR) program has moved from Charles Adults are also improving their health at Saturday November 14th Mooney Elementary School to James Ford Walkercise/Exercise classes on the same America Recycles Day Join Old Brooklyn Browns Backers Rhodes High School, 5100 Biddulph Rd. Class evenings. Sandy Worona, a name many read- 3727 Ridge Rd. & 5600 Carnegie Ave., 9 am - 3 pm. Cleats, 3995 Jennings Rd. Enjoy Cleveland days and times remain the same -- 6 to 8 p.m. ers recognize because of Sandy’s position at Drive up & drop off. Plastics, aluminum, tin cans, Browns games with Old Brooklyn's own on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday the Old Brooklyn Community Development glass jars/bottles, computers, tires & household haz- Browns Backer Chapter. Contact the Old evenings. Both children and adults can partic- Corporation, teaches the fitness classes. ardous material. Maximum 10 tires per person; no Brooklyn Browns Backers, 216-536-6496, for ipate for free by simply signing up any time Classes in Mixed Martial Arts (Gung Fu, latex paint. Environmental demonstrations & infor- more info. between now and March. wrestling and weight-lifting) are also offered at mation about how to conserve energy, water, keep Basketball, which is offered on all three Rhodes on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday First Friday of Every Month sewers clean, what to recycle, how to compost. evenings, is very popular. James Burton is the evenings. Robert Madison, an instructor in Free Hot Meal basketball coach. Gung Fu (Chinese) karate and Wrestling Saturday Nov. 14th & Sunday Nov. 15th St. Boniface Campus School Hall, 3555 W. Arts & Crafts on Monday evenings, instructor James Greenwood teach the class. 13th Annual Winter Craft & Gift Fair 54th St. (enter from side parking lot on W. St. Mary Byzantine Catholic School, 4600 State Rd. 52nd St.) Doors open, 4 pm; dinner served, 5 Movies and Snacks on Wednesday evenings If the Cleveland Municipal School Sat., 9:30 - 3:30 pm. Sun., 11 am - 3:30 pm. Ethnic - 6 pm. Sponsored by St. Boniface Church & and Games on Thursday evenings. Kim District (CMSD) is closed on a Monday, foods, bake sale, raffles, handmade crafts & gifts. St. Rocco Church. Csomos and Rachel Missella are teaching the Wednesday or Thursday, either for a scheduled Arts & Crafts and Games sessions. holiday or because of inclement weather, the Sunday, November 15th Saturday, December 5th As has been the case for many terms, evening classes at Rhodes will not be in ses- Pancake & Sausage Brunch Holiday Bazaar adults can sharpen their Computer Skills at sion (even though these classes are not taught St. Mary’s Crystal Chalet, corner of State Rd. Brooklyn High School, 9200 Biddulph Rd. classes on Mondays, Wednesdays and by CMSD personnel). & Biddulph Ave., noon - 2 pm. Donation: admission: 9 am - 3 pm; free. Crafts, hand- adults, $6; children, $3; includes pancakes, made gifts, gourmet pet treats, jewelry, deco- sausage, scrambled eggs & beverage. Take- rations, raffles, door prizes & much more. Hot outs available. Split-Pot raffle during the lunch, bakery & beverages. Raffle grand prize, brunch. Call school office, 216-749-7980, for patchwork quilt, "Cats Everywhere". Drawing more info. held at 2:30; winner needn’t be present. Call 216-661-2418 for more info. Special Flavors: Pumpkin Pie, Pumpkin Pecan
America Recycles Day, November 15th Bring your plastic grocery bags to Honey Hut for recycling anytime from November 1st - 15th We’ll recycle them for you.
FOR CLOSINGTHE SEASON: November 22, 2009, 8 pm 749-7077 4674 State Rd. Serving Old Brooklyn since 1974 PAGE 4 OLD BROOKLYN NEWS NOVEMBER 2009 Veterans Day from front page CWRU students team up to paint a mural on Mr.'s E's brick wall Association, asking me if I could assist in locating information about possible family by Maria Dimengo knew nothing about our chance meeting that were streets, brick buildings and facades, and members of Donald D. Owens. I connected February morning. So I immediately thought maybe It all began with pancakes and a cup of with Sue Bennis, Research Associate of the something coffee. Westlake Porter Public Library, who was that remind- I first met Hal and Della Esterwood, the already hard at work. Sue had discovered the ed us of the owners of Mr. E's Inn, during a business break- possible connection to Rhodes High School original fast at Dee's Diner on Pearl Rd. I had told them from the database, Brooklyn about a grant I had received from Case Western www.Clevelandvetsmemorial.com. Township. Reserve University (CWRU) to revitalize Duane, Sue and I worked feverishly So a storefronts in Cleveland. exchanging information garnered from Rhodes group of Hal and Della have lived in Old Brooklyn memorabilia, genealogy friendly databases, CWRU stu- for decades, raising their five kids. In addition and the military. Together we were able to dents to Mr. E's, Della has been operating Della's quickly locate the Owens family in Mobile, showed up House of Beauty on W. Schaaf Rd. for over 42 Alabama. We traced the Owens family though on a sunny years. Photo by Maria Dimengo Donald’s older brother, Gerald, who passed day in June So when Hal offered to show me the old The mural on the side wall of Mr. E's Inn, 4256 Pearl Rd. was painted in pri- away in 2004. Lois Owens, Gerald’s wife, and and power- wall, I wanted to see what it was all about. He mary and secondary colors -- blue, green, yellow, purple -- and white. all five of their adult children came up to washed the thought it would make a great mural some day, Cleveland last June to be present when the of the strange coincidence and e-mailed Ben a wall. Next, we scraped off the peeling paint, and he asked me to take a look. It was late diploma was awarded. Lois Owens said it was picture of the wall to see what might come of spackled the wall and rolled a sealant over it. February, when 20-degree temperatures were “the thrill of her life”. this interesting idea. We later added a coat of blue paint to match the part of the routine here in Cleveland. Hal told A seventy-something cousin of Donald’s, Fresh from the history books sky. We then scheduled a meeting with the City me I would pass by it on my way to work, so I Shirley Speicher of Massillon, told me she It's easy to drive right by Mr. E's Inn on to make sure they approved of our idea. drove by the space at 4256 Pearl Rd., hopped wouldn’t have missed the graduation. Shirley Pearl Rd. Located south of Memphis Ave., its By this time, June had turned into July out of my car, and snapped a few photos. produced a letter Donald had written to her windows are covered with posters promoting and we needed to take advantage of the warm Even in the wintertime, the space next to parents — Donald’s father and her mother drink specials and what's on tap for the week. sunny days. First, I invited a team of artists Mr. E's was full of life. A proud iron gate were brother and sister — in August, 1944, But little did I know that Mr. E's Inn had from Akron to project Ben's art on the wall and offered a protected boundary from traffic and from “somewhere in France”. “I know the been a fixture in Old Brooklyn for nearly three trace it with magic markers. Then the paint-by- passersby. Patches of snow clung to the worn, only way home is through Berlin,” Donald had decades. The building was constructed some- numbers game began. Neighbors and kids peeling paint. The open space showcased the written. time before the 1920s, and Hal had opened his stopped by to assist, wondering what would old brick where Theo's Restaurant used to be. Shirley reminisced that as a little girl, she bar there during the 1960s. At one point a become of the old wall on Pearl Rd. Folks Once measured, the wall at Mr. E's was 60 remembers attending Rhodes High School Faflik's shoe store, a five-and-dime and other walking by waved their approval, while work- feet wide, which would turn into an ambitious football games and questioning her father as to small businesses operated nearby. ers on their lunch breaks came by to see what project if I decided to take it on. But I didn't why they kept calling Cousin Donny’s name on The years had been unkind to the build- we were up to. Even the regulars from Mr. E's think much of it, until I got a call from a the public address system. Apparently, Donald ings that lined Pearl Rd. Although Hal had came out to check on our progress. Others CWRU student named Ben Meck. was a standout football player. rented his space for years, the building next to stopped by to tell stories and reminisce about Ben was eager to graduate and needed one My husband and I visited Luneville, it had turned into an eyesore, ready to be con- the old neighborhood. Complete strangers more credit hour to finish his degree. He won- France last summer. Meeting with Gerard demned by the City. Vagrants had been living picked up paint brushes and did their best to dered if he could create some artwork for Case Louis was heartwarming. He is so grateful to in the building and Hal decided he wanted to follow Ben's drawing, which was taped to the Cares, my city revitalization project. the United States for saving France during create a better space. wall every day for three solid months. Ben had never met Hal Esterwood and World War II. He considers his life’s mission to After he purchased his building in 2007, Finally, our project is complete. And now be returning the American soldiers to their Hal took about $40,000 of his own money to that the old wall has been painted, I can't help homeland. I went to thank him and he kept another Rhodes graduate from sixty-five years have the building next door demolished. After but think of all those conversations with Kevin, thanking me. ago. It has been an unparalleled honor for me it was torn down, a faded wall with peeling Ann, Carla, Karen, and the students from The love and respect these French people to assist in locating family members and then paint was left behind. Charles Mooney Elementary School. profess for Americans brought me to tears. to help plan the ’09 graduation ceremony. Imagine what it was like when I was pre- This mural was a transforming moment, Everyone we met expressed their appreciation In addition to Donald, James Ford Rhodes sented with the possibility of doing something not only for me, but for dozens of people who of the sacrifice of the American GIs. High School honors all those who served and with that old wall. After Ben showed me his cared. And even though a couple of coats of As a result of this discovery, Rhodes sen- are presently serving in the United States ideas and drawings, I figured it might be fun to paint mean nothing to people outside the City, iors this year not only took away their diplo- Armed Forces. create a simple piece of art that reminded us of it certainly changed me and the people who mas, but also their own special thoughts about the way life used to be, an era before there wanted to help beautify Old Brooklyn. Happy Thanksgiving from Joe Gigante & Sons Speed Exterminating Happy Thanksgiving Schedule service at your home or business. We provide quality, dependable, pest-control service. 4 Generations of Gigantes in Old Brooklyn 216-351-2106 Or visit our do-it-yourself store. 4141 Pearl Rd. 1 block north of Broadview Rd. Thanks to everyone for making Fall-OO-WWeen a great success Retain Councilman Brancatelli for Ward 12 on November 3rd Front row L - R: Tom, Mark, Joe, Max the dog, Andrea, Joey Back row L -R: Anthony & Uncle George Honesty RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
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