At HMH19 Biannual History Programs Are Underway

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Written by volunteers for Cleveland Heights and University Heights • Read more at www.heightsobserver.org INSIDE Blackout didn’t stop the ‘rock out’ at HMH19 9 First annual Ann Koslow University Heights Fall The seventh annual Heights Music Fest is Oct. 6 Hop (HMH19), which took place Sept. 12–14, turned out to be unlike the previous six hops. It had more bands—82 in total—and 34 venues, in three districts over three nights: Thursday in Coven- 14 try Village, Friday in Cedar Fairmount Cleveland and Saturday in Cedar Lee. The last Heights evening featured a makers’ market of impacted by local vendors on the vacant lot at Lee storm and Road and Meadowbrook Boulevard.

power outage The evening of Friday the 13th Future H eights courtesy began beautifully. The sun was out AJ & The Woods performing at The Fairmount during the Sept. 13 blackout. and the winds were calm for the first the rain pushed us indoors and 15 until the end. I’m inspired more than part of the evening, but the full moon minutes later the power went out,” ever!” 24 portended something ominous. The said Thessalonian Turner, a member Heights busi- The storm caused blackouts in forecast had called for rain and poten- of the eponymously named band that nesses invited several neighborhoods, including the tial thunderstorms beginning about was scheduled to play at Luna Bak- to submit holi- south side of Cedar Fairmount. At day gift ideas 10:30 that evening, but at about 8:30 ery Café at 9 p.m. that evening, in The Fairmount, where bands were and photos p.m. a brisk wind blew in, culminating a Facebook post. “People scattered set to play on the outdoor patio, Kiss in a violent storm that the National but Jeremy Poparad got his acoustic Me Deadly quickly wrapped up its set Weather Service later confirmed was guitar, we found some light and as rain began to pour down, and the a microburst. people that I’ve never met listened Heights Music Hop 2019 team quickly 26 “Thirty minutes before my set to me share my heart. They stayed continued on page 12 Work by CH artist on UH Symphonic Band embarks on 50th season University Heights view at The Fairmount looks to be counted in 2020 Census

Mike Cook

University Heights has a campaign underway to ensure that all of its residents will be counted in the 2020 U.S. Census. Allocation of federal funds, grants and support to states, coun- ties and communities is based on population totals and breakdowns

courtesy Mark S outher courtesy by sex, age, race and other factors, Members of the band at a summer concert at Mentor Civic Amphitheater, June 6, 2019. as measured by the census. University Heights will benefit Mark Souther University (JCU) on Oct. 20, Dec. 5 the most when the census counts and March 8. Additionally, the band everyone living in the city. By re- This season marks the 50th anni- will present a series of holiday and sponding to the census, residents versary of the University Heights summer concerts around Greater help the city and school district get Symphonic Band (UHSB), an all- Cleveland. a fair share of the more than $675 volunteer wind ensemble sponsored The band is under the leader- billion per year in federal funds by the city of University Heights. ship of Musical and Artistic Direc- spent on schools, hospitals, roads This year the band is pleased tor Matthew Salvaggio, who also and public works. to inaugurate its first year-round serves as music director of the Eu- The city will promote its cen-

FutureHeights FutureHeights Blvd. #105 Washington 2843 Heights, OH 44118 Cleveland concert season, presenting concerts clid Symphony Orchestra. Salvaggio sus campaign via its At Your Service in Kulas Auditorium at John Carroll continued on page 3 newsletter, Mosaic magazine, and social media accounts. The cam- Biannual history programs are underway paign will encourage everyone to Jessica Lee Robinson and Kara Hamley reviewing bids. Presented by the be counted, with an emphasis on O’Donnell Cleveland Restoration Society; no hard-to-reach populations, such registration required. as college students, renters, young Geneology, house rehabilitation and children, and new residents. house research comprise the themes Tuesday, Oct. 29, 7 p.m.: In 2020, University Heights of this fall’s free historical lecture Cuyahoga County Archives plans to team up with Heights series. Sponsored by Heights Librar- talk with Judith G. Cetina Libraries, Cleveland Heights, and ies, Cleveland Heights Landmark Judith Cetina, Cuyahoga County the Cleveland Heights-University

Commission and Cleveland Heights city o f chcourtesy archivist, will identify the records Heights City School District to Historical Society, all lectures take Dean Dairy, ca. 1900, was located at the current in the holdings of the Cuyahoga ensure an accurate count. place at Heights Libraries’ Lee Road site of U-Haul, 3205 Mayfield Road. County Archives that will assist A census aims to count the Branch (2345 Lee Road). Are you planning a rehab project at in documenting the history of a entire population of a country, at your home? This program will teach home, or other significant struc- the location where each person Tuesday, Oct. 15, 7 p.m.: Planning you how to plan for the project, how tures, in the city of Cleveland lives. The 2020 U.S. Census will ask Your Rehab Project - Cleveland to choose the right contractor for Heights. In her talk, Cetina will questions of people in homes and Restoration Society the job, and what to look for when continued on page 5 continued on page 3

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 1 www.heightsobserver.org Letters/Opinion

you vote. Letters Policy Think before you vote city council meetings for the past The Heights Observer welcomes letters to three years? Melody Hart. Because To the Editor: the editor. They must be submitted electroni- Sheila Friedman Melody has this unique view of cally, along with the writer’s name, phone Cleveland Heights city council, she has a very good number and e-mail address, to: www.height- Before deciding for or against the pro- understanding of how it functions. sobserver.org/members. posed amendment to the city charter, Council, not CEM, Which candidate for CH City [I urge CH residents] read and think Council is a member of the Greater about what it establishes: rejected ethics clause HEIGHTS OBSERVER Cleveland Congregations (GCC) “Shall various articles of the char- The Heights Observer is a citizen-based news To the Editor: Housing Task Force? Melody Hart. source published monthly by FutureHeights, a ter of the City of Cleveland Heights be Because Melody has been very in- nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to amended to change the existing form of civic engagement and quality of life. To clarify more misinformation from volved in the actions the task force 2843 Washington Blvd. #105, city government from Council/Manag- opponents of the citizens’ amendment has taken, she has extensive knowl- Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 er to Mayor/Council, eliminate the City 216-320-1423 for an elected mayor: Citizens for an edge of what needs to be done to Copyright 2019 FutureHeights, All rights reserved. Manager and rename all related titles Elected Mayor (CEM) did not reject an reduce the number of neglected Reproduction is forbidden without written permission. and positions; create a directly elected ethics clause as Jack Newman alleged properties in the city. PUBLISHER Mayor with a four-year term, who may Deanna Bremer Fisher last month. By law, a proposed citizens’ Which candidate for CH City have outside, limited employment or [email protected] amendment can address only one issue; Council has a strong finance back- other work that does not conflict with Editor-in-Chief unlike council or a commission, citizens ground? Melody Hart. Melody will Kim Sergio Inglis assigned duties; provide for recall and [email protected] cannot offer changes across the entire bring a unique understanding of filling a vacancy; and set the authority E-NEWS Editor charter, so we had to focus solely on sec- the budgeting process to council and duties of the Mayor, including the Jessica Schantz tions related directly to the manager/ and will ask necessary questions [email protected] power to veto legislation, the power to mayor structure. about the financial operations of ADVERTISING hire, direct and discharge city employ- Newman should be more worried the city. Bob Rosenbaum ees, and in certain instances require 216-401-9342 that CH City Council itself rejected Melody Hart has my vote for [email protected] the Mayor to appoint city employees, a key ethics recommendation by the Cleveland Heights City Council. advisory committee subject to Council approval, including Charter Review Commission (CRC). Deanna Bremer Fisher, David Budin, Greg Donley, a City Administrator?” Judith Eugene, Jewel Moulthrop, Vince Reddy, Bob The Fully Amended Charter draft that Gail Larson Rosenbaum, Jessica Schantz, Kim Sergio Inglis Cleveland Heights needs a lot council tabled removed CRC’s clause GCC Housing Task Force member Editors of improvements. The master plan holding that the city manager, vice and Cleveland Heights resident Jamison Babb, Maryann Barnes, Deanna Bremer worked out by the council with the Fisher, Christine Brucker, David Budin, Fred D’Ambrosi, manager, council members and two city manager addresses these needs, Greg Donley, Jewel Moulthrop, Vince Reddy, Bob Rosen- department directors “shall avoid any baum, Jessica Schantz, Kim Sergio Inglis, Clare Taft. and slow progress is happening. Do we actual or perceived conflict of interest About the Observer design and PRODUCTION want a politician, with other work con- Temma Collins, Diane Roberto and any action likely to give the appear- cerns and no expertise required, to take The Heights Observer is not an or- DISTRIBUTION ance of impropriety in the execution over? Should we give all of this power to dinary newspaper; it is a nonprofit Sruti Basu of their public duties,” and replaced it one individual? We clearly need more publication for residents of Cleveland The views and opinions expressed in this publiction with a clause simply stating that those do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions highly qualified employees to do the Heights and University Heights. individuals have to follow applicable of the Heights Observer, its publisher and staff, or work which the plan details. That we The Observer has no writing staff; of FutureHeights, its staff and board of directors. ethics laws. Council also replaced a it is written by you—the readers. Seed funding for the Heights Observer gener- have a master plan being implemented phrase requiring that all “officers of the ously provided by the Cyrus Eaton Foundation, the is exciting to me, and rare, I believe. Individuals throughout the com- Dominion Foundation, and the Katherine and Lee City and all employees holding a posi- munity decide what stories they want Chilcote Foundation. Powered by the 9th Estate. Please study and think about the tion with an annual salary” join those proposed charter amendment before to write, then submit them for publi- other named positions in subscribing cation. Anyone in University Heights to an oath or affirmation that they’ll or Cleveland Heights is welcome to follow state laws, and limited such contribute regularly, occasionally or MOPS Meets Here an oath to the named offices plus all even just once. department heads. Is there something you think Every Other Friday Really? We need a charter revision should be covered in the Heights Ob- just to remind lawmakers and city em- server? If so, please write it on your ployees to follow the law? That should own, or with friends, neighbors or be self-evident. We need them to follow colleagues. Our volunteer editors will exactly all the ethics provisions that make sure it’s ready to publish and CRC wanted—in full, not in part. contact you with any questions. We’d welcome a modern ethics If you’re writing a news article, provision as part of the charter. As soon it should be clear and factual. If you as the initiative passes this fall, per- want to express an opinion, submit it haps council can offer one as a further as a letter to the editor or an opinion amendment—and include all of CRC’s piece. Either way, make sure it’s about original language as proposed, not as something specific to our two cities. tinkered with by council. • To make a submission of any kind, go to www.heightsobserver.org and click Michael Bennett on “Member Center” at the left. Secretary, Citizens for an Elected • For information about writing style, Mayor article length, etc., click on “Become an Observer” at the left. For questions that aren’t answered there, call the I support CH council FutureHeights office at 216-320-1423 candidate Hart or e-mail [email protected]. Articles to be considered for the ﬁ rstbaptistcleveland.org/mops November issue must be submitted by To the Editor: Oct. 14. We publish some articles online as they come in—and still consider Which new candidate for CH them for the next print issue. We also Mothers of Preschoolers City Council has attended most publish an e-newsletter each Tuesday. Support | Encouragement | Inspiration Committee of the Whole and

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 2 www.heightsobserver.org Opinion A park at Meadowbrook-Lee?

Fran Mentch POWER WASHING Cleveland Heights residents may be interested to know that Ralph Soloni- DECK CLEANING & STAINING tz, Garry Kanter and I submitted a plan for turning the city-owned space at Meadowbrook-Lee into a small PAVING • SEALCOATING • DECKS Phase 1 of the proposed park, as drawn by urban park. Over the years we have Ralph Solonitz. 216-533-2936 submitted three similar proposals in response to CH City Hall’s RFPs for all three times. (Or is it four times? SEALCOATING • ASPHALT that space. I can’t remember.) Our committee Our proposal is that the city work just wants everyone to know of our CONCRETE with us, and a committee of like- efforts—actually, some of you may minded residents, for two years to have been involved in our first effort raise $1 million to pay for the design several years ago. and creation of an interesting urban If you think that a smart, sophis- space, with a fountain kids and people ticated park at Meadowbrook and can interact with, a small stage, and Lee is a good idea, I hope that you will an open space for food trucks and a contact Cleveland Heights Economic farmers’ market, etc. Development Director Tim Boland, If the funds can’t be raised, no 216-291-4857, [email protected], Loganberry Books park. But, there is little to lose by try- and City Manager Tanisha Briley, 216- ing. It is well documented that parks 291-3737, [email protected], or like these contribute to the economic anyone and everyone else that you well-being of the community. And, in think can help with this. Thank you. the end, it will probably cost much less to build and maintain a park than Fran Mentch was a leader of Citizens for the subsidies that the city will provide Oakwood, the group that tried to stop to a company that puts a building the development of the former Oakwood there. Country Club. For more information, visit Our proposal has been rejected www.citizensforoakwood.org.

census continued from page 1 Haunted Bookshop Tours group living situations, including to the Constitutional requirement Oct. 31st  4-6pm for Gentle Goblins  6-8pm for Robust Goblins how many people live or stay in for a population count. Although  each home, and the gender, age and the U.S. Census long played a 13015 Larchmere Blvd. | Shaker Heights, OH 44120 race of each person. The goal is to role in the work of Congress, the www.LoganberryBooks.com | [email protected] | 216.795.9800 count everyone once, only once, permanent Census Bureau wasn’t and in the right place. created until 1902. The census Census questionnaires will be became part of the Department mailed to all U.S. households next of the Interior, then, the following year. Each person is counted at the year, the Department of Com- location where he or she sleeps merce and Labor, and, finally, the 3.5” H x 4.63“ W most nights of the year, in order Department of Commerce, where to account for people who have it has remained. moved, college students, and those From a simple head count in who travel frequently. 1790, that only included measures A second mailing will be sent of race, age and gender, to a decen- if the first is not returned. If nei- nial (every ten years) report that ther mailing is returned, a census includes more than 200 different worker will visit the address to surveys, the census has changed gather data. over time in order to accurately The collected information is and effectively measure the demo- kept completely confidential by graphics of the American people. the U.S. Census Bureau, and cannot be disclosed for 72 years. Mike Cook is the communications and The first census was recorded civic engagement coordinator for Uni- in 1790, and was undertaken due versity Heights. band continued from page 1

is the co-founder of Orchestra 19, a band member Robert Cotrell; Sea 19th-century historical performance Songs by Ralph Vaughan Williams; practice orchestra based in Cleveland. and First Suite in E-flat by Gustav Since he became its third director in Holst. The concert, at JCU’s Kulas 2015, UHSB has grown considerably. Auditorium, is free and open to the It now numbers close to 60 musicians public, with a suggested $5 donation drawn from throughout the Heights at the door. and the region. UHSB is a 501(c)3 nonprofit The band has made great musi- organization and a member of the cal strides. In addition to continuing Association of Concert Bands. For its tradition of playing a wide range more information about the band, of selections, including film scores a complete list of performances, and popular music, the band regu- and information about joining the larly performs both classical and core band, visit www.universityheights- wind band repertoire. band.org. The Oct. 20 concert, for example, will feature Courtly Airs and Mark Souther plays trumpet in the Uni- Dances by Ron Nelson; Sheltering Sky versity Heights Symphonic Band. He is a by John Mackey; Rhapsody for Flute professor at Cleveland State University by Stephen Bulla, with flute solo by and lives in Cleveland Heights.

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 3 www.heightsobserver.org Opinion

Shop local. Play Local. Hire Local. Classroom technology Proudly selling the Heights since 2001 changes over time

THE and prepare students for taking state tests, where the stakes are higher. A Teacher’s Obviously, many teachers use REALTORS Voice 216.233.6726 TheMcKeonGroup.com computers in creative and innovative ways. Unfortunately, even though I was initially ahead in the use of Ari Klein computers in the classroom, I now feel left behind and teach in a mostly Last spring I found an unopened traditional manner. roll of plastic, about 10 inches I like to see how students work wide, among some old school stuff. out problems, and what they are I asked several colleagues if they thinking through their handwritten Meredith Babel Mike McKeon Eileen McKeon Britt Bodager knew what it was, but no one had a homework and quizzes. I have a hard clue. It turned out to be transpar- time making multiple-choice ques- ency film for an overhead projec- tions that actually show me where tor, the likes of which no one had an error in the student’s calculations Overwhelmed by Medicare options? seen in a while. Other examples of may have occurred. equipment from my early teaching I know there are ways to give years are now obsolete. students feedback on electronically So much of the technology we assigned work, but I have not kept use in the classroom today we too up with how to do that, instead opt- easily take for granted. It is hard to ing to write notes on students’ daily imagine how we would be able to assignments. It just seems easier, in survive without Internet access in the long run, for me. “Did you add in- our classrooms or without equip- stead of subtract?” “This looks really ment to project from our laptops. good, but please try #4 again using Computers are certainly the another method.” Many times I show most visible tools in schools today. examples of calculations or graphs on I was an early adopter back in this work, which I don’t know how to 1999, when I was given a laptop do in electronic formats. So, I guess I am a bit of a throwback. for a free consultation to and an LCD projector to use in I am old fashioned in other ways, learn about your options my classroom, thanks to a federal grant. I soon acquired an interac- as well. I still believe there is value in MEDICARE | LIFE | DENTAL & VISION | LONG TERM CARE tive whiteboard, which enabled using a compass and straightedge to me to control my computer at do geometry constructions, but you the board. It was great, and I probably already guessed that. I also developed all my lessons on the have a slide rule in my classroom that computer. few people have ever used. Technol- All teachers now have this ac- ogy can do wonders for teaching and cess and capability, and tools and learning in the right hands, but some software that are so much more traditional methods can still be effec- advanced. We—teachers and stu- tive. dents—are fortunate to have the materials and support to keep up Ari Klein is a lifelong community member, AUTOMOTIVE SPECIALIST with technological advances. math teacher at Cleveland Heights High On the other hand, our stu- School, and president of the Cleveland dents’ exposure to computers is Heights Teachers Union. Since 1982 focused mainly on ensuring that Visit our website they complete district and state Honesty, Value and to schedule your tests. For locally developed com- Communication service online mon assessments (a phrase mean- ing “tests”), the computer is used to score multiple-choice sections. VOLVO • SUBARU • VW • AUDI • BMW • SAAB • PORSCHE Students get immediate feedback on their test results, and teach- 1815 S. Taylor Road, Cleveland Hts. • 216-371-5100 • swedishsolutions.com ers can analyze each student’s

skill level. Computers take the ari klei n courtesy drudgery out of some test scoring Ari Klein with oversized slide rule.

Vote YES!on Issue 26

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 4 www.heightsobserver.org Opinion

preservation continued from page 1 The status quo can’t cut it street. Our historic housing stock, rav- discuss the nature and availability aged by mortgage fraud, is now beset of auditor’s maps, treasurer’s tax sion. They installed audio equipment by tax foreclosures, a challenge that duplicates, real estate appraisal in the executive conference room foreclosure bond legislation, belatedly cards, and deeds, and explain how Heights of (where they choose to meet), so that passed in 2018, cannot address. We these can be used in relationship Democracy audio recordings could be posted on lost 174 homes to demolition from with one another to create a chain the city’s website. Still, unless you can 2011 through 2015. (Housing Director of ownership and establish a date recognize the participants’ voices, the Allan Butler has not returned repeat- of building construction. For those Deborah Van Kleef and Carla Rautenberg recorded meetings are hard to follow. ed calls asking for updated numbers.) who also have an interest in geneal- Regular council meetings, held the A few vacant lots have been sold for ogy, her presentation will illustrate As regular readers of this column first and third Mondays of the month, $100 to adjoining property owners. how the history of a home is in- know, we enthusiastically endorse a take place in council chambers, where The rest must be mowed and main- tegral to understanding the story step toward a brighter future for our they can be videotaped and posted on tained by the city, which has trouble of one’s family. No registration city: Issue 26, the Cleveland Heights the city’s Youtube channel. In addi- keeping up even with this. required. city charter amendment providing tion, as required by Ohio law, minutes With city-manager government, for a directly elected mayor and a are kept. Council could conduct CoW much that occurs remains forever Jessica Lee Robinson is the local history professional city administrator ap- sessions with similar transparency, but behind the scenes. Council protects librarian at Heights Libraries. Kara pointed with council approval. it declines to do so. the city manager; the city manager Hamley O’Donnell is City Planner II During several years’ attendance Under the leadership of Mayor/ protects council (sometimes by hid- at the Cleveland Heights Department at committee of the whole (CoW) Council President Carol Roe, council ing vital information). In a mayor-led of Planning & Development. meetings—council’s working ses- committee functions are folded into government, the executive has a less sions, held most Mondays—we CoW meetings. No council member is cozy relationship with the legislative have seen that our current system responsible for shepherding a given piece branch (the first check and balance); can allow the city manager to with- of proposed legislation through develop- the mayor has veto power, which can Free books mailed hold important information from ment to the floor—again making the be overridden by council (a second to your young child! council and the public. Furthermore, process less transparent than it could be. check and balance), and must answer employment law requires that all dis- The current council and City to voters every four years (a third cussions about city employees, up to Manager Briley, who came on board in check and balance). and including the city manager, occur late 2013, have failed to dig Cleveland The beauty of Issue 26 is that it in executive session, from which the Heights out of the ditch created by the offers Cleveland Heights an execu- public is barred and of which there 2008 financial crisis, and exacerbated tive team, a full-time, elected mayor is no public record. (Discussions of by failures of previous councils and working day-to-day at city hall with a real estate transactions and pending/ former city manager Robert Downey. professional city administrator—the potential lawsuits happen in execu- Comparable neighboring sub- “Shaker model.” We’re convinced that If your child is tive session as well.) urbs, all with directly elected mayors, political leadership paired with effec- 4 years old or younger Until July 2018, there were no have done better. By what metrics? tive management will be better, and do And lives in official records of CoW meetings Improved housing values, increased better, for our city. Please vote “Yes!” 44106, 44120, CH-‐UH, whatsoever. Citizens had to attend in median household incomes, and more East Cle., Euclid or Shaker, visit person or remain in the dark. Finally, robust commercial development. Look Deborah Van Kleef and Carla Rauten- after many complaints and a lawsuit, around: In the once-vital Coventry berg are longtime residents of Cleveland heightsfamily.org council members and City Manager Village commercial district, there are Heights. Contact them at heightsdemoc- for registra6on informa6on Tanisha Briley made a minor conces- currently 14 vacancies visible from the [email protected].

Heights Schools Foundation Invites You to ROARHOMECOMING WEEKEND OCTOBER 11-12, 2019 For complete details visit HEIGHTSSCHOOLSFOUNDATION.ORG

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 5 pm Parade Down Lee Road 10 am High School Open House Pregame Party Family Rock the Block Pop-Up Gear Shop 7 pm Varsity Football Game 8 pm Post Game Party #HOCO19

HeightsCHUH-Homecoming19-ad.indd Observer October 1 1, 2019 5 www.heightsobserver.org9/18/19 2:00 PM Opinion New school year inspires Mary Dunbar renewed advocacy Cleveland Heights City Council school environment. Education is about human devel- the common opment. It’s priceless. It’s profound. good It’s worthy of ritual. The back-to-school launch re- Let’s work together to minds me that our system of public Susie Kaeser schools is essential, egalitarian and make Cleveland Heights worthy of investment and attention. Each year I have the good fortune I am grateful to live in a democracy even better of walking across the street on the where we guarantee all children ac- first day of school to help launch my cess to a free public education, be- five neighbor children as they start a cause each individual is valuable, and WHAT PEOPLE WHO KNOW SAY: new school year. The ritual includes because we all benefit from having me standing with the kids for the educated and thoughtful citizens. “ As a trustee of Doan Brook Watershed Partnership, Mary is a strong first-day-of-school portrait. Public schools bind us together. In voice for a healthy habitat in our community. She understands the It started 12 years ago when the a world of competition and conflict, over-arching importance of the environment in sustaining our city, oldest children, twins Adele and they express the common good. country and the planet.” Patrick, started kindergarten. With The kids are back at work, and — Peggy Spaeth, co-founder, Friends of Lower Lake three younger siblings, including an- now it’s time for us to resume our other set of twins, it was a challenge advocacy. Public education is under “ Mary is intelligent, dedicated to achieving the best for Cleveland for the family to get these new stu- attack. The new state budget shows Heights, and a pleasure to work with. She can and does collaborate as dents to school. I became their walk- that providing for a thorough and ef- part of a team to get things done. We need her thoughtful, informed ing buddy. For the next eight years, ficient system of high-quality public presence on Council to keep our current momentum going and growing.” accompanying these five youngsters schools that advances the common — Michael Ungar, current City Council member to elementary school was part of my good has taken a back seat to indi- morning routine. vidual rights and private education. “ Mary Dunbar is all about keeping our city a magnet for residents My young friends no longer need Our community is hit hard by these and small businesses. She is smart, willing to take on complex chal- my help getting to school, but I still anti-public priorities. lenges and works with others to find solutions. Let’s keep her on get to be in their first-day photo. I I am grateful to live in Cleveland City Council.” love this ritual and the chance to let Heights, where our community in- these students know I care about — Thomas Nobbe, Forest Hill resident vests in our children and values our them and their education. This public schools. I am grateful that “ Mary Dunbar’s recent successes include passage of a Complete and special moment is also a powerful we have a coalition of community Green Streets Policy (recognized as the nation’s best), foreclosure motivator to continue to advocate members, educators and elected of- bond legislation and legislation to protect our historic districts. She has for public education. ficials who fight for this essential This year, their mom posted a twice helped Cleveland Heights be recognized as a Bicycle Friendly cornerstone of our democracy. The photo of me with the big kids as kin- Heights Coalition for Public Educa- Community. Retain Mary to continue to build strengths.” dergarteners and another one with tion persists as an organized voice — Lee Chilcote, former City Council member them as Heights High juniors. In the for state policies that support public first photo I towered over them, and “ I love my house, but some landlords and renters in this neighborhood education. Citizen leadership is es- now they tower over me. The photos sential if we want the state legislature are problematic. Mary Dunbar helped me get action for some needed measure the passage of time and how to fulfill its obligation to provide for improvements. She is committed to greatly improving Cleveland Heights much has changed as these two young a thorough and efficient system of performance in dealing with housing issues. Vote for Mary Dunbar.” people have grown up. It goes fast! high-quality public schools. — Betty Watts, Caledonia resident In addition to getting kids out of Each day our children must func- the house and back on a structured tion within the reality shaped in large routine, the first day of school marks part by state policy. For that policy WHAT MARY DUNBAR SAYS: a new beginning: new opportunities to achieve our goals for children, and challenges, the excitement of we must demand that policymakers It’s been an honor to work for you as a Council member since 2012, self-discovery and discovering the make the success of our public school with these major accomplishments: unknown, growing as a thinker and systems their education priority. problem-solver, uncovering new We have a lot of work to do. n Supported economic development initiatives, sparking numerous information and being inspired to projects now under way search for more, becoming a writer Susie Kaeser is a 40-year resident of n Promoted citizen engagement, resulting in housing renovations and reader and able researcher, mak- Cleveland Heights and the former direc- and partnering to improve neighborhoods ing new friends and working with tor of Reaching Heights. She is active in others, and learning to navigate the Heights Coalition for Public Educa- n Increased transparency and communication adults and the daily routine of a tion and the League of Women Voters.

n Added to our strengths as a walkable, bikeable community We have amazing assets in our homes, business districts, schools, parks, cultural and recreational opportunities — strengths we must SCOTT HAIGH build on to keep our city attractive and vital. But our residents are our Website: ScottHaigh.Howardhanna.com greatest asset, and I will work for expanded governmental collabora- Email: [email protected] tion and citizen engagement to make Cleveland Heights an even more Direct: 216-272-6889 desirable community that attracts new homeowners and businesses Sold! 2239 Brockway Rd, University Hts. while retaining those already here. I am passionate about keeping Call me to sell your home! Cleveland Heights the place to be for diverse families and residents who love living here as much as I do.

Learn more and get involved at www.marydunbar.com The City Council election is nonpartisan. Council members serve at large. Paid for by Dunbar for Cleveland Heights City Council, Bonnie Baker, Treasurer 2514 Wellington Road, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 6 www.heightsobserver.org Opinion Issue 26 seen as a recall vote New resident advocates for leadership Vince Reddy projects—Top of the Hill and Lee- Patrick Akers There’s no reason we can’t have this. Meadowbrook, to name two—that I believe an elected mayor will Though it hasn’t been presented as had been languishing. While she may As a relatively new Cleveland give Cleveland Heights a better shot such, the November ballot Issue 26, not have the figurehead-style presence Heights resident, I write in support at reaching its full potential. This regarding the future of city govern- of some other area city managers— of an elected mayor. My fiancee and I is no slight to those working under ment in Cleveland Heights, is a recall Dave Ruller in Kent or Eric Wobser moved to Cleveland Heights in Janu- our current council-manager form of vote on the performance of City Man- in Sandusky, for example—she is ary 2018 after living downtown. Over government. I believe they are doing ager Tanisha Briley. If the proposed undeniably competent and hardwork- the past two years, we have fallen in the best they can under the current switch to a mayor-council form of ing. Most important, when she makes love with this city and its people. It charter: the city manager reports government is approved by voters, occasional missteps, she is quick to certainly helps that restaurants, cof- equally to seven people who work the deposed city manager would be correct them and change course. fee shops, a gym, and a movie theater as part-time council members. Can expected to continue in her role until The city’s assets, as well as its are all within walking distance of our you imagine taking direction from the mayor arrives in January 2022. Of problems, should be considered in house, but what resonates with us and reporting to seven different course, Briley could not be required to deciding whether we need a structural the most are the people and our com- part-time bosses? Under our current stay on as a lame-duck city manager. change that will require a transition munity—neighbors lending a hand system, the best we can ever do is If citizens are unhappy with period of more than two years. to clear a fallen tree; running up and maintain the status quo. It explains Briley’s performance as city man- Most of what Cleveland Heights down streets seeing block party after why projects and issues, such as Top ager, they should address that, rather offers we take for granted: its com- block party; and seeing standing- of the Hill and Severance Circle, than propose a structural change in mercial districts, parks, schools and room-only city council meetings. have stalled or been unaddressed for the city’s form of government—a libraries, theaters, nonprofits, stores, At an initial meeting regarding an protracted periods of time. change that will be time-consuming, restaurants, and a diverse and inter- elected mayor, I met people from all To move forward—to address expensive, and completely unproven esting array of long- and short-term over the city with different opinions the needs of current residents and at- in terms of how well it would work. residents. I would also argue that about its successes, management, tract future residents—we need lead- Voters should keep in mind that our Cleveland Heights’ design standards and future. ership, not management. An elected, neighbor to the north, East Cleve- surpass those of its neighbors and I can’t speak to the past, but full-time mayor is best positioned to land, made the change we are now that planning done throughout the I can speak to the future. While do this. We will get the opportunity considering in the mid-1980s, and it city’s history has positioned it to face we certainly love our new city, we to discuss our progress and future did not prove to be a panacea. many of its current challenges. fear it is not keeping pace with through non-partisan, mayoral elec- Cleveland Heights faces many Voters should educate themselves neighboring communities, and is tions every four years. Our mayor challenges, but there are few com- on the council-manager and mayor- not positioned to keep up with the will be responsible for ensuring that munities that don’t. As a Noble-area council forms of government. The needs of our current and future citi- we move at the pace and [in the] resident and homeowner, I lived in council-manager form is the most zens. I see friends and other young direction we have chosen, and will the midst of the devastating effects common in the U.S. Research shows professionals dismissing the East be answerable to the public on a day- the foreclosure crisis and recession it is more efficient and less likely to Side, instead turning to the likes of to-day basis. Our elected officials will had on Cleveland Heights and most face corruption. I see no reason for Tremont and Lakewood. Even if they be subject to an additional form of other cities in Cuyahoga County. It Cleveland Heights to change from considered the East Side, how does accountability: our mayor will hold was a difficult time for the city, es- the form of government that has Cleveland Heights distinguish itself council accountable, just as council pecially its northern neighborhoods, served it well for nearly 99 years. Vote from neighboring communities, like will hold our mayor accountable. and I was not always pleased with the no on Issue 26. Shaker and University Heights, when This balance of power—this healthy city’s handling of the situation, but we many of us visit their community competition—will allow our govern- are moving in the right direction. Vince Reddy is a former FutureHeights centers and dog parks? There are ment to be more agile, responsive Briley has done an excellent job board member and a 23-year resident of plenty of great restaurants, bars, and forward-looking—qualities of stabilizing the city’s finances in Cleveland Heights. He recently served on and shops on Lee Road and at Cedar necessary for the future of our city. the wake of the recession and the the city’s Charter Review Commission and Fairmount, but neither area reaches state’s draconian cuts in aid to local was the city’s zoning administrator from the same level of “togetherness” that Patrick Akers is a resident of Cleveland governments, and she has revived 1996 to 2005. you see at the Van Aken District. Heights. Claims that the CRC was biased are unfounded

Mike Gaynier mayor by a margin of 10-2, with one against the strong mayor were as a political stepping stone.” abstention. We then voted 11-2 in as varied as their diverse back- Since our report was submitted, I am often asked why the Cleveland favor of keeping our current coun- grounds. For me, it was the long two professors at the University Heights Charter Review Commis- cil-manager form of government history of problematic, unac- of North Carolina have published sion (CRC) voted overwhelmingly (the previous abstention voted countable strong-mayor cities in a research paper, looking at more against changing to a strong mayor. with the majority on this vote). Cuyahoga County that fuel inef- than 2,700 U.S. cities. They found The answer is simple: We deter- After our exhaustive examination ficiency and increase costs to tax- our current form of government mined it was not in the best inter- of all the pros and cons for mak- payers. Other members cited our is 57 percent less likely to result in est of Cleveland Heights residents. ing a change, only two commission long history and successful experi- corruption convictions than the Claims that the commission members voted for a mayor. One ence with a shared-power council, proposed mayor-council form. was biased are unfounded. The pro-mayor commission member and professional, accountable city I talked to one of the authors, council was split 4-3 in favor of resigned shortly after this meeting. manager expertise. Most found Kimberly Nelson, a leading expert keeping the council-manager sys- Another meritless claim is that no evidence a mayor-council gov- on local government. She said tem. Each of the seven council the commission ignored citizen ernment would correct perceived research shows cities that change members appointed one CRC support for a strong mayor. It’s problems, and that this kind of their form of government almost member who, one can assume, true that the majority of public change could destabilize our city, never realize the benefits they supported their point-of-view. I comments made to us at the close slowing or stopping progress on hoped to achieve, and she gave me was appointed by Council Member of our twice-monthly meetings our master plan objectives. a quote from Plato: “In politics we (now Mayor) Carol Roe. Though we favored this position. A little over The other reasons for our presume that everyone who knows both opposed a strong mayor, we 30 speakers addressed us at these recommendation are in our final how to get votes knows how to disagreed on other issues, includ- meetings, several on multiple oc- report, including that a mayor- administer a city or a state. When ing my initial preference for ward casions. At a public forum, which council system would “generate we are ill . . . we do not ask for the representation. The remaining attracted 80 residents, the majority conflict and gridlock, as opposed handsomest physician, or the most eight appointees were agreed upon of comments also favored a strong to the more collaborative process eloquent one.” by the entire council, and were mayor. These residents were heard, . . . that should be expected from assumed to be neutral. We were a but their assertions were not as a council-manager system.” The Mike Gaynier is a leadership con- very diverse body of individuals, impactful as the evidence, and we mayor system empowers a single sultant, and co-chair of Cleveland ideas and opinions, just like our were tasked with making recom- individual and “campaigning skills Heights Citizens for Good Govern- city council. mendations in the best interest of do not necessarily translate into ment, a PAC formed to inform voters After seven months of re- all of the residents of Cleveland leadership ability necessary to about the benefits of the council-man- search, we took two votes. We Heights. guide and control a complex city.” ager form of government. He served voted against changing to a strong The reasons members voted Some mayors “might regard it only on the CRC.

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 7 www.heightsobserver.org Opinion Study says mayor-council government more likely to have corruption convictions

Fred D’Ambrosi partisanship. Professors are pro- elected mayor, only in a council- cities were flat, and other forms of hibited from registering for parties manager system (not the strong government were down 1 percent. A new study, published online in or making political contributions. mayor system proposed in Issue 26), Nelson said, “If you look at re- April 2019, concludes cities with the She is part of a team that travels also helps lower the corruption rate. search on places that change, they council-manager form of govern- the state training city managers, Nelson confirmed, “This does not almost never realize the benefits ment, like Cleveland Heights, are 57 mayors, clerks and other officials mean a strong mayor in a mayor- they hoped to realize. The problem percent less likely to have corruption from across the political spectrum council form.” isn’t the form of government.” convictions than cities using the in ethics, money management, lead- Nelson said her data, which she mayor-council form of government. ership and personnel. believes to be the most up-to-date Fred D’Ambrosi has been an award-win- CH will vote on Issue 26 on Nov. 5 The study directly addresses in the nation, shows most votes to ning journalist for 40 years, mostly as a to decide whether to switch to the the vote CH voters are facing: change city government fail. Those TV news director in Cleveland, D.C., mayor-council system in 2021. “Every year, local communities that pass do so by a very close mar- San Diego and Milwaukee. He’s enjoyed The study was done by two debate changing their form of gov- gin. From 1990 to 2018, she said, the living in Cleveland Heights since 2015. professors in the School of Govern- ernment” from council-manager to number of council-manager cities, He is volunteer communications director ment at the University of North mayor-council. “The argument is the most popular form in the U.S., for Cleveland Heights Citizens for Good Carolina, Kimberly Nelson and made that the mayor-council form was up 1 percent. Mayor-council Government. Whitney Afonso, and was published provides greater accountability . in the latest edition of Public Ad- . . than the council-manager. . . . The case for an elected mayor ministration Review, a peer-reviewed In fact, oversight is lessened when academic journal (https://tinyurl.com/ greater political independence Tony Cuda money from a Washington, D.C., trade mayorcorruption). They looked at is afforded to a single person . . . association. The International City 2,759 U.S. cities with populations of and the evidence presented here Cleveland Heights needs leadership that Managers Association (ICMA) has at least 10,000. suggests significantly higher levels is directly accountable to the voters. pledged up to $25,000 in matching funds The study analyzed corruption of corruption associated with the That means an elected mayor. We don’t to help defeat the elected mayor cam- convictions “between 1990 and mayor-council form of government have that now. City council appoints paign. But hundreds of our volunteers 2010 to determine which factors, . . . .” a part-time mayor with no executive have responded with hundreds of small including form of government, af- The final paragraph states, authority. The vast majority of voters donations. Our supporters are proud to fect the probability that a corrupt “This study provides evidence that we have spoken with do not think the be on the side of a grassroots campaign act will occur. The findings indicate municipalities using council-man- current system is working and believe a that promotes democracy and voter that municipalities with council- ager form of government are less full-time elected mayor will be more re- participation. manager form are 57 percent less likely to have corruption charges sponsive to the needs of our community. Many things the opposition is say- likely to have corruption convic- filed than are municipalities with That is why Issue 26 is on the ballot. ing are simply not true. One that stands tions than municipalities with the the mayor-council form of govern- Not because a 10-member committee out among many is Jack Newman’s asser- mayor-council form.” ment. The prevention of corruption calling itself Citizens for an Elected tion in last month’s Heights Observer that Nelson said her teaching and is critical to successful government, Mayor thinks so. It is because 4,000 an elected mayor would “focus power research focus on local govern- and this research presents a strong voters signed a petition saying they in one individual.” The truth is, power ment, and do not reflect any politi- case for the council-manager form want to be able to vote for mayor. They would be shared between two elected, cal agenda. She said the School of of government.” talked about their dissatisfaction with co-equal branches of government, with Government requires strict non- The study also found that an Severance, taxes, garbage collection, checks and balances that are currently their water and sewer bills, the Top of nonexistent. the Hill process, Noble Road, Taylor This is not a power grab. Giving all Road, Coventry Village, Mayfield Road, the power to the one and only branch A Fall Celebration of Music and a general lack of vision and leader- of government is a power grab. And the featuring the beautiful organs of St. Paul’s ship. There certainly were accolades for voters are telling us this form of govern- police and fire. But the vast majority felt ment is not working. that an elected mayor would give them Our elected mayor amendment and our city a better future. Bottom is actually very similar to the current All Events Free — Please Join Us! II line: Cleveland Heights citizens want to form of government in Shaker Heights. Sunday, Sept. 29, 4 p.m. — Organ Plus: Noa Even, vote for mayor! They don’t want council The mayor would need city council to saxophone; Karel Paukert, organ; works by choosing for them. approve legislation and appointments, F. Wiley, J. Teml, LJ White, J. Alain, B. McDaniel (first performance) The people opposing our right to including that of the city administra- vote for mayor concede that voting tor. The city administrator would have

for city council is sacrosanct. But you A TribuTE To ANToN HEillEr (1923-1979) the same credentials as our current cannot say you trust citizens to vote for city manager and would have to be Friday, October 4, 7:30 p.m. — Recital: Jay Peterson (Chicago), organ; city council, but they can’t be trusted confirmed by council. In other words, assisted by Madelyn Hasebein, soprano; to vote for mayor. They applaud voters daily operations would be run by a works by J.S. Bach, G. Boehm, M. Reger, for somehow managing to elect apoliti- professional administrator who reports P. Hindemith and A. Heiller cal, virtuous council members, but fear directly to the mayor. It’s called a hybrid Saturday, October 5, 2 p.m. — Remembering those same voters would probably elect form of government because it is the Anton Heiller: Fulbright grant students Christa rakich a corrupt mayor if given the chance. Our best of both worlds: a professional ad- and Jay Peterson will share remembrances of the supporters have found this insulting, ministrator and a directly elected mayor beloved Viennese organist, composer, conductor and pedagogue. hypocritical and elitist. As former Char- accountable to the voters. The citizens ter Review Commission member Jessica of Cleveland Heights will finally know Sunday, October 6, 3 p.m. — Recital: Christa rakich (Oberlin/Boston); works by P. Hindemith, J.S. Bach and Cohen said in a recent Facebook post, where the buck stops! A. Heiller “I am so disgusted by (the opposition’s Regardless of what happens on Nov. campaign). I can’t believe they have 5, it is the voters who will have the final Friday, October 18, 7:30 p.m. — Vive la France! resorted to fearmongering and negative say. Just as it should be. Erik Suter (Wash., D.C.); works by M. Duruflé, campaigning already.” M. Dupré, J. Langlais, Ch.Tournemire, and J. Alain Another thing voters have told us Tony Cuda is a longtime CH resident and Saturday, October 19, 4 p.m. — Organ Music of the Seventeenth they don’t like—our opponents accept- campaign manager for Citizens for an Elected Century: Steven Plank (Oberlin/St. Paul’s); works by S. Scheidt, ing outside Political Action Committee Mayor. G. Frescobaldi, D. Buxtehude and L. Couperin Sunday, October 20, 4 p.m. — Petr Eben: Labyrinth of the World and Paradise of the Heart (after Jan Amos Komenský-Comenius): Karel Paukert, Opinions continue on organ; John orlock, narrator pp. 16, 20 and 21, All events made possible by grants from the Ingalls Foundation and the Charles H. Teare and Clifford K. Kern Music Fund at the and online at Cleveland Foundation. www.heightsobserver.org/  St. Paul’s Episcopal Church  2747 Fairmount Boulevard  Cleveland Heights, Ohio  (216) 932-5815  www.stpauls-church.org read/news-/opinion.

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 8 www.heightsobserver.org university Heights News UH Fall Fest is Oct. 6 Mike Cook

The inaugural University Heights Fall Fest will take place on Sunday, Oct. 6, 1–5 p.m., at Walter Stinson Community Park. Jersey, the Bruce Springsteen trib- up hungry, as Ye Olde School Treats- ute band, will headline the event, with n-Eats will be serving up novelty ice a concert at 3 p.m. creams and other carnival food out of a There will be plenty of shopping retro-fitted school bus. at Fall Fest, as dozens of local artists Rock and roll historians will re- and small businesses will have booths member that Bruce Springsteen and the at the festival. Vendors include Altemus E Street Band played University Heights Leatherwork, Milan’s Bead Company, back in 1975. Tim Russert produced the Dude About Town photography, LeLux show at John Carroll University, while Jewelry & Accessories, Judy’s Jewelry Kid Leo from WMMS served as the em- Basket, Sunshine on Silk, Milk & Cook- cee. To celebrate the ’75 show, Jersey will ies, and Shebaflora. perform songs from Springsteen’s JCU For kids, Fall Fest will feature in- set list, including “Spirit in the Night,” flatables, Balloons by Blake, RW Magic, “Thunder Road,” “She’s the One,” and Kool Kidz Face Painting by Samantha “Born to Run.” Bias, and pumpkin painting. For adults, Beachwood Boot Camp will present an Mike Cook is the communications and exercise session at 1 p.m. civic engagement coordinator for University Attendees are encouraged to show Heights. join our blossoming Scalise is new UH city prosecutor team Work for Luna, one of Mike Cook to survivors seek- the best local cafes in ing civil protec- CLE. Health Bene ts, A former Cuyahoga County assis- tion orders. As an 401K, Vacation tant prosecutor, attorney Stepha- assistant county nie B. Scalise is the new city pros- prosecutor, Scal- Hiring at both locations - ecutor and assistant law director ise worked in the Cleveland Heights & for the city of University Heights. General Felony uh city hall courtesy Moreland Hills The first woman city prosecutor in Unit, the units for Stephanie B. Scalise [email protected] the history of University Heights, Children and Family Services, and or stop in to apply Scalise replaces Michael K. Astrab, the Juvenile Justice unit. who recently accepted a private “University Heights is a beau- sector position. tiful community where diverse “Ms. Scalise brings prosecuto- people are genuinely happy to live, rial experience, thoughtful tem- work, and learn together,” Scalise perament, and a strong sense said. “I feel very privileged to have of justice to the position,” said this opportunity to serve a place I University Heights Mayor Michael can be so proud of.” Dylan Brennan. “I am delighted Scalise earned her law degree she accepted our offer to serve the from Case Western Reserve Uni- residents of University Heights.” versity. She has a Bachelor of Arts Scalise is owner of Scalise Legal degree from Wilson College as a Services, where her litigation prac- double major in legal studies and tice focuses on juvenile law, family history/political science. In addi- law, criminal defense, and appeals. tion, she studied at the University She is an advocate for children as of Oxford. guardian ad litem in the Cuyahoga Law Director Luke McCon- County Juvenile Court and the ville appointed Scalise, upon the Domestic Relations Court. mayor’s recommendation. UH Her other legal work includes City Council approved the ap- partnering with the Ohio Domes- pointment at its Sept. 16 meeting. tic Violence Network, The Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence, Mike Cook is the communications and and the Cleveland Rape Crisis civic engagement coordinator for Uni- Center to provide representation versity Heights.

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 9 www.heightsobserver.org university Heights News Open house kicks off Fire Prevention Week

fabric · patterns · ribbon · stitch parties uh city hall courtesy Hang out with the University Heights Fire Department at its second annual Open house on Sunday, Oct. 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 2026 Murray Hill Road, Little Italy Mike Cook University Heights Fire Department open Tuesday - Saturday 11am - 6pm (3980 Silsby Road) invite community boltandspool.com In celebration of Fire Prevention members of all ages to their station Week, Chief Robert Perko and the on Sunday, Oct. 6, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Activities will include fire safety talks, station tours, and food, as well Neff Landscaping & Snowplowing as inflatables and a coloring contest for kids. University Hospitals will provide health screenings and food, including Kosher options, while the American Red Cross will distribute fire detector batteries. This year, national Fire Preven- tion Week runs Oct. 6-12, and this year’s theme is “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape—Plan and Practice Your Escape.” Fire safety tips will be featured on the city’s social media accounts throughout Fire Prevention Week.

Mike Cook is the communications and civic engagement coordinator for Univer- sity Heights.

UHPD to distribute candy on Halloween night

Mike Cook

As is their tradition, members of the University Heights Police Depart- Over 40 ment will be ready for Halloween night, Oct. 31, with candy for trick- Years! or-treaters. Trick-or-treat hours will run from 6 to 8 p.m. that evening. Residents are Dependable Service asked to leave their lights on if they in the Heights Area will be distributing candy. Mike Cook is the communications and Small Jeeps used in narrow driveways civic engagement coordinator for Univer- Block discounts available (440) 449-3050 sity Heights. Early Bird Coupons at: Advertise in the nefflandscaping.com Observer

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 10 www.heightsobserver.org

cle veland heights news

Cleveland Heights City Council meeting highlights

SEPTEMBER 3, 2019 She also asked that council meeting min- Resource Center and FutureHeights, and the Council members present were Mayor Carol utes be included in the packet and for an Police Department’s successes in tracking To receive email postings of full reports, send Roe, Vice Mayor Melissa Yasinow, Craig explanation of when emergency legisla- down those suspected of perpetrating violent an email to [email protected] Cobb and Mary Dunbar. Members absent tion is appropriate. Vice Mayor Yasinow crimes. There will be a presentation on the or join through Google groups using “lwv- were Kahlil Seren, Jason Stein and Michael answered the last query by explaining that Noble Road Corridor at the Sept. 16 council chuh observer reports” as a search phrase. N. Ungar. The meeting lasted from 7:46 to legislation can take immediate effect if it meeting. These reports contain member observa- 8:46 p.m. is passed after a single reading (“Emer- NOPEC Grant tion and selected highlights of public meetings gency”), but must wait 30 days if there are and are not official statements of the Heights Public comments An ordinance to authorize all actions neces- Residents spoke about a wide variety of two or more. She noted that the Charter sary to accept Northeast Ohio Public Energy Chapter of the League of Women Voters of concerns: Review Commission has recommended a Council (NOPEC) 2019 Energized Commu- Greater Cleveland. This disclaimer must ac- • Mark Pultusker spoke again about his modification of the wording of this matter nity Grants received a first reading. company any redistribution of these reports. experience with municipal broadband in the Amended Charter, but that will not Edwards Road projects on both sides of the issue. He be presented to voters until a future date. An ordinance to vacate a portion of the street is quite concerned and offered the city • Bill Bruml lives on Middlehurst Road right-of-way for Edwards Road received a first a free study to show pros, cons, and and is concerned that building an eight- reading. This will accommodate the proposed potential pitfalls. Mayor Roe stated she suite apartment building with only eight buildings and improvements to be constructed will discuss this with council and staff. garages on the block south of Mayfield as part of the Top of the Hill, while reserving City Manager Tanisha Briley encouraged Road will cause a parking problem. There an easement for utilities and drainage. him to submit a proposal soon, as the RFP is currently informal parking on the lot period is closing. that will be built upon. He was referred Mayor’s report • Joan Mallick urged a market study for to Richard Wong to discuss his concerns. Mayor Roe urged citizens to look at council Top of the Hill. She stated Richard Wong • Alex Pesta encouraged council to be updates on the city website and announced of the planning Department had said this “bold and intentional” about Top of the the following events: would not be done, because the devel- Hill; he pointed out the developer’s and • Oct. 2: Noble Neighbors Governance oper had performed a study. She feels city’s commitment, adding that so many Forum this should be done before proceeding. meetings and studies can lead to a project • Oct. 3: League of Women Voters Candi- • Joyce Rajke asked that the next Archi- “getting stuck,” and concluding “you can- dates Forum at the Community Center tectural Board of Review meeting be not satisfy everyone.” • Oct. 10: League of Women Voters Issue video recorded; she claims that the court City manager’s report Forum at Cleveland Heights High School reporter is inadequate. She asked that Briley’s full report may be found at: www. LWV Observer: Blanche Valancy. a complete drawing be presented—be- clevelandheights.com/documentcenter/ Look for earlier, and often expanded, post- cause at the last meeting the drawing View/5304/cc_packet_09032019?bidId= ings of meeting summaries online at www. was incomplete—and that a shadow A few highlights from her discus- heightsobserver.org. study be done. sion included the broadband RFP, Global • Mark Perrin, a Ph.D. in neurobiology, in- Cleveland, NOPEC aggregation, the up- quired about a wildlife study, particularly coming Happy 5K Race, block parties, the Tear-offs • Re-roofs • All repairs of the deer population, as there have communications department, the Taylor Shingles • Slate • Tile • Gutters • Siding • Chimney Work been cases of Lyme disease in the region Road study, a planned apartment building # Metal Roofs Installed and deer ticks can spread the disease to on Middlehurst Road, Top of the Hill and Insured • All work guaranteed • Free estimates humans and mice. Edwards Road, an electric scooter project, • Linda Margolin thanked the speaker Cedar-Lee-Meadowbrook, Severance Center, 1 Flat Roof Experts about the deer, reflecting on the com- Fairmount-Coventry-Scarborough, signaliza- Roofing Nobody Under Bids Us munity trauma caused by a vehicle/deer tion projects, new canine officers, the Refuse accident in her neighborhood after which and Recycling Task Force, the recent Safety Residential the police had to shoot the injured deer. Forces Night Out, properties from the land 216-319-0430 She suggests it is time to cull the herd. bank that have gone to the Home Repair Commercial

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 11 www.heightsobserver.org Cleveland Heights news

music hop continued from page 1

worked to get the band’s equipment MAC’S under cover. Members of AJ & the Woods were waiting inside The Fair- mount for their scheduled 9:30 p.m. BACKS performance when the power went BOOKSTORE out. Not missing a beat, the band MACSBACKS.COM 216-321-2665 1820 COVENTRY RD. CLV HTS AUTHOR TALKS, played an acoustic set in the dark as WRITING WORKSHOPS, the crowd listened intently. Upstairs LECTURES, BOOK CLUBS, FREE COMMU- at Green Tara Yoga, Michael McFar- NITY MEETING SPACE, LOCAL AUTHORS, Ghosts & land continued on in the dark. POETRY READINGS, SPECIAL EVENTS, Legends of “What happened tonight [Sept. GREETING CARDS, JOURNALS, SPECIAL Northeast 13] exemplifies the love these musi- ORDERS, AND OVER 35,000 NEW AND USED Ohio cians and all of the musicians who BOOKS! Oct. 26th 7pm played tonight have for the spirit of this festival and this community,” ourtesy Future H eights ourtesy

posted Jason Patrick Meyers, a mem- C ber of the Heights Music Hop 2019 The crowd enjoys a performance at Boss Dog Brewing Company at Heights Music Hop 2019. team, on Facebook. TRADE IN YOUR BOOKS “On Saturday morning, it be-

4100 Carroll Blvd., University Hts. • Price: $395,000 • Classic brick colonial with architectural detail throughout • 5 bedrooms, 3 full baths ALL on second floor • Freshly painted home includes an updated eat-in kitchen with granite counters, large island, and views of the private fenced in yard • Formal step down living room, study and dining room ourtesy Future H eights ourtesy ourtesy Future H eights ourtesy C

leads into the family room, all on spacious first floor C • Lower level has a bedroom and full bath, wet bar, One of Coventry Village’s newest merchants, Still Point Gallery in the Cedar Fairmount Busi- fireplace and plenty of built in storage Macaron Cafe, was a music venue at Heights ness District was one of several retail shops that Call me to schedule a private showing! Music Hop 2019. hosted music during Heights Music Hop 2019. This is a rare opportunity to buy in a prime location!! came evident that power was out “Our team—Ann, Jason, Eric and at several businesses on Lee Road, Josh—did an amazing job quickly and the damage from the storm was reorganizing to accommodate the so widespread that we doubted it power issues, consult with those af- would be restored by that evening,” fected, and communicate changes My team is here to help, 216-319-3333 or said Deanna Bremer Fisher, execu- on social media—all while remaining [email protected] tive director of FutureHeights, the calm,” said Bremer Fisher. “I’m proud nonprofit community development of them, and I’m proud of our com- corporation that organizes Heights munity for coming together like it Music Hop. “Five of our 19 venues did. This year’s Heights Music Hop for that night were impacted by the is one I will never forget.” DĂĚĞŝŶKŚŝŽ͘ outage, but we made the decision to Although power was restored to all ĞƐŝŐŶĞĚďǇzŽƵ͘ move forward knowing that it’s one businesses on Lee Road by Sunday eve- of the biggest nights of the year for ning, Meyers urged Heights residents our local businesses. And, we thought to make a special effort to visit Cedar that residents without power might Lee: “Take a night sometime soon and want to be with others, where there support one of these businesses that was music and light.” were impacted by the power outage, Despite the lack of power, three grab a drink at New Heights Grill, a of the impacted venues were able pizza at Dewey’s Pizza - Cedar Lee, to accommodate performances that guacamole at Lopez, some BBQ at Rib evening. Using a portable genera- Cage, or a glass of wine at CLE Urban tor, The Rib Cage relocated its live Winery. Maybe you could even pair music acts to the city-owned parking it with a concert from one of the five lot next door to its venue, where it acts that weren’t able to perform on was hosting its traditional pig roast. Saturday—Vanishing Shores, Holden Dewey’s Pizza’s musical acts were able Laurence, Key to the Mint, The Prom to perform acoustically on its outdoor Queens, and Maddie Indre.” patio. CLE Urban Winery was able to open its garage door-style windows Ann Koslow is the Heights Music Hop and host music by candlelight. coordinator for FutureHeights.

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 12 www.heightsobserver.org Community News music hop continued from page 12

getting to know you ourtesy Future H eights ourtesy C Matt Harmon performed in front of Mitchell’s Fine Chocolates during Heights Music Hop 2019. ourtesy Future H eights ourtesy Future H eights ourtesy C C Julie Heffernan Self-Portrait as Wrangler II, 2019. A performance at the Coventry P.E.A.C.E. Arch, A performance outside of Stone Oven during hosted by the Coventry Village Branch of Heights Heights Music Hop 2019. Cleveland Institute of Art Libraries, at the 2019 Heights Music Hop. Reinberger Gallery Nov 1–Dec 13, 2019 Opening Reception Fri Nov 1, 6–8pm

An exhibition of works that reinterpret the figure, featuring Natalia Arbelaez, Julie Heffernan, Haley Josephs, and Devan Shimoyama.

cia.edu/exhibitions ourtesy Future H eights ourtesy

C IG: reinbergergallery Red Rose Panice performs at Boss Dog Brewing Company at Heights Music Hop 2019.

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 13 www.heightsobserver.org Community News Cleveland Heights hit by massive storm

University Hts CIAO TIME! 216-371-5643 Pepper Pike Mayfield Village 216-831-1595 440-442-9600 www.GERACISRESTAURANT.COM Jessica S cha n tz A home with tree damage from the Sept. 13 storm.

Jessica Schantz the storm and the following evening, in spite of many venues losing power. City crews and First Energy respond- At approximately 8:45 p.m. on Sept. ers spent multiple days clearing de- 13, the south side of the Cedar Fair- bris, fixing downed utility polls, and mount Business District lost power, restoring power after a major storm but the music continued—in the and microburst damaged neighbor- dark—as the three bands scheduled hoods in Cleveland Heights and near- to play in businesses there adjusted by suburbs on Friday, Sept. 13. The to the situation and went acoustic. microburst—a rapidly descending “We knew lots of folks didn’t wind and rain shaft caused by storm have power [that] Saturday morning,” convection—was the second to hit said Deanna Bremer Fisher, executive the community in the last three years. director of FutureHeights, the orga- The vast majority of damage oc- nization that presents the Heights curred in the neighborhoods south of Music Hop. “We made the call to go Cedar and west of Lee roads, fanning forward with the event for Saturday out from the Fairmount Boulevard, once we determined that 14 of our Coventry Road and Scarborough 19 Cedar Lee venues had power. Our Road intersection. thought was that people would want As a result, the annual Heights to come together—where there was Community Congress (HCC) Home music and light. & Garden Tour, scheduled for Sept. “We were hoping that power 14, was canceled. would come on for the other five The houses and yards that were venues, but that didn’t happen. The to have been featured on this year’s Rib Cage was able to move forward tour are all located in the historic with its pig roast and outdoor music, Coventry and Fairmount neighbor- Dewey’s hosted the music on its pa- hoods that were among those most tio, and CLE Urban Winery hosted its affected by the storm. [For informa- bands via candlelight. New Heights tion on receiving a refund for HCC Grill and Lopez were not able to open tour tickets, or donating the cost of and host music as planned.” tickets purchased to the nonprofit, Most residents had power re- see article on p. 15.] stored by late afternoon on Sept. 17. The Heights Music Hop—another annual Cleveland Heights event, Jessica Schantz is the e-news manager held this year on Sept. 12, 13 and 14— at the Heights Observer and a longtime was able to proceed both the night of resident of Cleveland Heights. Winter is Pruning Season For healthy, beautiful trees next spring, the time to care for them is now. Let our Certified Arborists assess your valuable canopy. Call today.

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 14 www.heightsobserver.org COMMUNITY NEWS HCC cancels annual tour

Eric Dillenbeck

Due to extensive storm damage of donation, visit HCC’s You too can that occurred on Friday, Sept. 13, website. Heights Community Congress The annual tour enables be proud of (HCC) had to cancel its 42nd HCC to offer programming to Annual Heights Heritage Home promote a better understanding your garden & Garden Tour, and its Sept. 14 of the richness of the diversity preview party. we experience every day in the Despite your best HCC had been planning its Heights. HCC will continue to efforts, are you annual home and garden tour, set pursue this mission, and will be disappointed with the for Sept. 15, since last February. offering two programs in October, appearance of your yard? The profits from this annual tour at Forest Hill Presbyterian are a major source of support Church: Are you tired of to HCC’s ongoing mission to • On Thursday, Oct. 10, 7–8:30 calling an 800 monitor and advocate for fair p.m., HCC will present “Source number and not receiving housing practices in the Heights of Income Discrimination: A the personal service and throughout Cuyahoga County. World Café Conversation.” you deserve? It is HCC’s largest fundraiser, • On Thursday, Oct. 24, 7–8:30 Are you frustrated and an opportunity to showcase p.m., HCC will present “The with high pressure the beauty and diversity of the Culture of White Supremacy.” sales calls for services Heights. For details on these and other you don’t want or need? HCC sold more than 600 programs, visit HCC’s website. tickets in advance of the tour. The community’s continued Anyone who would like to request support will be critical to HCC a refund should visit HCC’s in the coming months. HCC’s website, www.heightscongress.org, Board of Directors is at work, for details. (Refund processes vary brainstorming ideas for a different depending on where and how the type of “FUNdraiser” that will We customize fall maintenance tickets were purchased.) highlight the uniqueness of the services to meet your needs: Those who would like to Heights community and HCC’s • Lawn renovations donate the price of their tickets commitment to ensuring fair • Fall leaf clean up to support HCC’s mission should housing for all people. Please stay • Bed maintenance simply keep the tickets. On them is tuned. • Pruning and trimming a tax-exempt donation statement, • Weekly lawn maintenance which makes each ticket a tax Eric Dillenbeck is the executive receipt. For more information, or director of Heights Community www.lawnlad.com | (216) 371-1935 to request an official statement Congress.

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 15 www.heightsobserver.org OPINION Don’t follow In East Cleveland’s footsteps: Vote no on Issue 26

Jackie Shakir family on my street. I remember the East Cleveland, and I still do. political city manager, Tanisha Briley, days when we had ice skating rinks on But in 1987 we left it. who manages city services and city Cleveland Heights should take a lesson Shaw Avenue, dances at the YMCA, In 1986, East Cleveland swore in employment, and is held accountable from East Cleveland and vote “NO” on and three outdoor swimming pools its first mayor, Darryl Pittman, after by our elected council. This is the most Issue 26 to stop the politicization and with tennis courts. I graduated from voters rejected our council-manager common form of municipal government destabilization of our city. I’ve seen this Shaw High School in 1974, and I gave system for a strong mayor by a ballot in the country and prevents public cor- show before and it isn’t pretty. back by teaching at Kirk Middle initiative. Sound familiar? Promises ruption. Roads get paved because they I was raised in East Cleveland, School in East Cleveland. My children were made that with a strong mayor, need to be, not because a donor lives on and I was part of the second black were born in East Cleveland. I loved instead of a city manager, our city’s that street. People get hired and fired problems would go away. They didn’t. because they’re qualified for the role, Instead, they got worse. not because they’re a political ally’s rela- East Cleveland was placed under tive. Does anyone wonder why Frank fiscal emergency under Pittman. The Jackson hired disgraced former judge emergency continued under Wallace Lance Mason, or why Frank Jackson’s Davis, whose previous leadership ex- grandson wasn’t prosecuted by the perience included running a funeral Cleveland city prosecutor? home. Then East Cleveland got Em- I want to keep Cleveland Heights manuel Onunwor, who spent nine years government accountable. I want to keep in federal prison for public corruption. politics out of city services and employ- Eric Brewer followed Onunwor, and ment. I want to stop the destabilization then East Cleveland got Gary Norton, of our city, and stop us from going the Helping display and who was ultimately recalled in a special way of East Cleveland. Anyone who election and replaced with the current says that it can’t happen here is fooling preserve your mayor, Brandon King. East Cleveland themselves. art and memories is a shell of its former self under this I hope that East Cleveland has a since 1973 mismanagement. brighter and stronger future. I really I do not want Cleveland Heights do, and I am working toward that goal to follow in East Cleveland’s footsteps. with my fellow Shaw alumni. However, Treatments for everything from I have lived in Cleveland Heights for everyday to extraordinary we in Cleveland Heights cannot ignore over 20 years, am a proud resident of the East Cleveland’s past. Beautiful art for sale 44112 area, and serve as my Democratic Cleveland Heights should not fol- Displays and shadowboxes precinct captain. I live only a couple of low in East Cleveland’s footsteps by Solutions for large and streets away from my daughters and throwing out our form of government Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-5 hard-to-frame items their families. I love Cleveland Heights, on the promises of a magic mayor. I urge and I want it to stay strong. everyone to vote “NO” on Issue 26. Cleveland Heights has withstood 13429 Cedar Road Get $20 off on framing over $100 the problems that have harmed East Cleveland Hts. (One discount per visit) Jackie Shakir has lived in Cleveland Heights Cleveland because our city has been, for over 20 years, but was raised in East Cleve- 216-397-7671 woodtraderframing.com and continues to be, professionally land. She is a proud resident of, and advocate managed. We have a qualified and non- for, the 44112 area of Cleveland Heights.

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 16 www.heightsobserver.org COMMUNITY NEWS Belarusian delegates visit CH RETAIN COUNCILMAN CRAIG COBB COURTESY JUDITH EUGENE COURTESY In August, a delegation from the country of Belarus—advocates and leaders in the field of diversity and inclusion—visited Greater Cleveland to observe and learn about programs here for those with disabilities. They plan to take what they learned back to Belarus, and implement the ideas there. Cleveland Heights’ Loving Hands Group (whose principal, Judith Eugene, is third from left in the photo) was among the companies and organizations that the delegation met with. The U.S. Agency for International Development funded their visit, in partnership with World Learning, and Cleveland Council on World Affairs planned their itinerary. Your Independent Voice on Cleveland 4 CH Senior Center News Heights City Council November 5 Vote to Amy Jenkins Advance registration and payment of $20, which includes both Working for you for Attention, music lovers! The Cleve- the lecture and the concert, is KEEP land Heights Senior Activity Cen- required, as seating is limited. Good Government ter’s (SAC) partnership with Uni- The Cleveland Heights SAC, COBB versity Circle’s Distance Learning located in the CH Community programs continues this month Center at 1 Monticello Blvd., offers Paid for by the Friends of Craig Cobb, Treasurer Ruth Cobb, with an exploration of Chopin on a variety of programming for those 2832 Berkshire Rd. Cleveland Heights, Oh. 44118 Tuesday, Oct. 22, 1 p.m., at the 60 and older. A complete schedule center. of programs is published in the Julia Russ, Cleveland Institute community center’s newsletter, of Music faculty member, will pres- available online at www.chparks. ent “Chopin in Paris”—a talk about com. the composer’s life and work, and SAC membership is $5 for HEIGHTS HIGH SCHOOL the cultural life in Paris at the time. Cleveland Heights residents. To Russ is a recipient of the Steinway sign up, bring a recent piece of mail PRESENTS Top Teacher award and has con- (such as a bill) and a photo ID. certized extensively as a soloist and University Heights residents collaborative pianist. who would like to join SAC must In the second part of the pro- first register with Patrick Grogan- gram, planned for Sunday, Oct. Myers, University Heights commu- 27, 3 p.m., participants will travel nity development coordinator, at to Cleveland State University’s 216-932-7800, ext. 203, or pgrogan@ Waetjen Auditorium for a musical universityheights.com. Member- program, also titled “Chopin in ship is $10 for University Heights Paris.” It’s part of the innovative seniors. Kulas series of Keyboard Conversa- tions with Jeffrey Siegel—a unique Amy Jenkins is supervisor at the Cleve- concert-plus-commentary in which land Heights Office on Aging and the Siegel explains the musical pieces Senior Activity Center. She can be before performing each piece in its reached at 216-691-7379 or by e-mail entirety. at [email protected].

 October 30 • November 1,2  7:00 pm November 3 4:00 pm

Call (216) 320-3105 for ticket information or visit ClevelandHeightsChoirs.com

Dina Rees Evans Cleveland Heights High School  Performing Arts Center 13263 Cedar Road  

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 17 www.heightsobserver.org CHUH-DamnYankees-ad.indd 1 9/18/19 1:42 PM HEIGHTS SCHOOLS Tiger Nation signs promote district unity

Krista Hawthorne

You’ve seen the signs in yards throughout the neighborhood—Heights Tiger Nation. The slogan with the face of a tiger has popped up on T-shirts, cups and hats. But some people do not have a clue what Tiger Nation means. COURTESY REACHING HEIGHTS REACHING COURTESY Visit the Around 2010, CH-UH City School A Heights Tiger Nation yard sign. District leaders were looking for a way to encourage district unity. They wanted all CH-UH students, families, Elizabeth Kirby. “I love that students Pumpkin Patch staff members, and residents to feel from kindergarten to high school, pride in their district. They understood alumni, families, staff, and merchants that to feel a connection with others show their pride by wearing and dis- who have shared experiences helps playing Tiger Nation gear.” build unity and a sense of belonging. Reaching Heights supports Tiger At about the same time, the words Nation in many ways, including as a “Tiger Nation” started appearing on distributor of Tiger Nation yard signs. district spirit-wear, marketing ma- If you would like to join the Tiger terials, gift items and exterior signs. Nation, contact Reaching Heights at Many of the district’s schools encour- 216-932-5110 to purchase a yard sign aged students and staff to wear Tiger for $10, with proceeds going to the Nation gear. The popular yard signs PTA of your choice. started appearing a few years later, in You can also purchase Tiger Na- neighborhoods throughout the com- tion gear on the school district web- munity. Thus, the tiger went district- site, under Shop Heights Gear. Mums ▪ Kale ▪ Cabbage ▪ Gourds ▪ Cornstalks ▪ Straw Bales wide; it became everyone’s mascot. “When I first came here, I im- Krista Hawthorne is executive director of mediately saw how everyone embraces Reaching Heights, and a proud and grateful Tiger Nation,” said Superintendent Heights Tiger.

Cleveland Heights - University Heights Board of Education Meeting highlights

SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

13410 Cedar Rd. ▪ 216-932-0039 ▪ www.bremec.com President Jodi Sourini, Vice President James Posch, and board members Dan Heintz, Ma- lia Lewis and Beverly Wright were present. Five-year forecast Superintendent Elizabeth Kirby and Treasur- The board approved the five-year forecast er Scott Gainer were also present. The meet- for fiscal years 2020 through 2024. ing began at 7 p.m. and ended at 7:51 p.m. Resolution on state takeovers Re-Elect District events Dan Heintz presented a resolution concern- The district will host its fall Heights Family ing Ohio House Bill 70. It passed unanimous- Academy on Sept. 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at ly. The resolution states “that the Board of Ed- the high school. All schools have been hold- ucation of the Cleveland Heights-University ing open houses over the past week. Board Heights City School District calls for the com- Carol Roe members set up a schedule to attend as plete and immediate repeal of HB 70 and many as possible. the enactment of HB 154, which restores lo- to Cleveland Heights City Council cal control and focuses on the improvement AP scholars of student outcomes.” The full resolution can Dan Heintz said that the high school has 36 be viewed at: https://go.boarddocs.com/ Advanced Placement (AP) scholars, and of- oh/chuh/Board.nsf/Public. fers 20 AP courses. LWV Observer: Carol Spackey. LGBTQ support To support LGBTQ students, the schools are offering resources such as clubs and access to social workers. Look for earlier and often expanded Metal detector purchase postings of meeting summaries online The district received a grant for metal detec- at www.heightsobserver.org. See tor purchase. A new detector will be in use disclaimer on page 11. for the high school football game on Friday, Sept. 6.

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 18 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS SCHOOLS Dougbe River School plans annual gala event Apple Construction Residential Contractor Serving Greater Cleveland since 1980 Kitchens, bathrooms, additions and more 216-321-6639

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COURTESY JOHN LUTTERMOSER COURTESY October 18th Proud graduates of the Dougbe River Presbyterian School. 5 - 7 p.m. John Luttermoser For children ages 12 and under... 44118; or by using PayPal at the all children must be accompanied by an adult The Dougbe River Presbyterian school’s website, www.drpsl.org. School, a mission in Africa that was conceived of in Cleveland Heights, John Luttermoser is a member of the will hold its annual fundraising gala board of the Dougbe River Presbyterian on Sunday, Oct. 27. School. The school is the first ever in a remote region of the West Afri- can nation of Liberia, which is the birthplace of Isaac Monah, elder in the Noble Road Presbyterian Church. He left Twarbo Region in 1990, fleeing Liberia’s civil war. Heights Libraries In 2007, shortly after return- ing from a visit to Liberia, Monah brought his idea for the school to Is Here for You, the church’s elders, where it was met with enthusiasm. Working with other worship Wherever You Are communities and individuals, the school opened in 2012. It now has “I think libraries are one of the greatest institutions ever created. They’re a wonderful source of about 160 students, boys and girls, knowledge and information. Even though I have a from preschool through ninth smartphone now and can look up a lot of things grade. The school is open to all myself, the staff and community always keeps me regardless of religious affiliation. coming back.” Monah serves as the school’s — Sam Wolf executive director. Several members of the board live in Cleveland Heights or University Heights. All staff members are from West Africa, mostly Liberia, and it’s an all-volunteer effort on this side of “We moved here from Virginia and come here all the time, at least 2 to the Atlantic Ocean. 3 times most weeks. We go mostly Current challenges for the to the Children’s section, and we’re school include building dormito- always looking at the How-To ries and continuing to develop the books. I homeschool my son, and school farm, which is at the heart we rely on the library to provide all the books we need for his learning. of a plan to make the school self- We don’t use a set curriculum, so sustaining. Some of the food grown whatever he wants to learn, we’ll on the farm is used to feed students come here and browse and check and staff, and some is sold to sup- out different books on that subject. The library is a wonderful resource port the school. for us both.” This year’s annual Dougbe River School gala will be held on — Sarah & Sam Nemecek Oct. 27, at the Banquet Center at St. Noel, 35200 Chardon Road, Wil- loughby Hills. The event begins at 5 p.m., and will feature news from the school and information about Visit us in person, plans for its future, as well as food, drinks, a silent auction, and a wine online, or in the pull. community. Tickets are $55 per person, or $400 for a table of eight, and can www.heightslibrary.org be reserved with a check payable (216) 932-3600 to Dougbe River School, mailed to Dougbe River School, P.O. Box 18017, Cleveland Heights, OH

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 19 www.heightsobserver.org OPINION Elected mayor is a step toward more-real democracy

Greg Coleridge religious “leaders” are increasingly Our own nation’s history is filled can do is maximize opportunities publicly perceived as unaccountable, with profound movements to give for both residents and elected repre- People the world over are increas- not transparent, captured by special greater voice to citizens over elites. sentatives to be mutually heard and ingly demanding a greater voice in interests, corrupt and disconnected These include a colonial revolution accountable. the decisions directly affecting their from the problems affecting people against a self-anointed king; popu- There is also no single form of lives, communities, nations and in their everyday lives. Rather than lar resistance to a new Constitution government that should be seen as for- natural world. exploring real alternatives to our until the Bill of Rights was added; ever, or blindly believed to be adequate. Many/most government, cor- fundamental problems, our “leaders” and social movements to provide Times change. Conditions change. porate, media, educational and seem visionless. voting rights to freed slaves, women, Choosing a mayor and appointing indentured servants and indigenous a city manager should no longer be “in people, as well as to directly elect house” decisions—actions beyond the senators (formerly appointed by leg- reach of voters. Let Cleveland Heights islatures). Those who strive to end voters decide. Privileged voter suppression, gerrymandering, Having city council selecting big money in elections, and corporate who will be city manager and who personhood represent this movement will be mayor isn’t remotely the same to help. today for real democracy. So do those as citizens directly electing who will advocating for ranked choice voting, represent us and our interests in run- direct election of the U.S. President ning the city. Accountability and re- and, specifically at the local level, sponsibility under the current system Betsy Warner, Agent We’re honored to serve this community for 25 years. 2491 Lee Blvd My staff and I look forward to many more with you. direct participatory governance. is too dispersed. It’s too easy to pass Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 It is this spirit for a greater public the buck. We need a full-time mayor Bus: 216-932-6900 Thank you for your continued support and business. ® voice that drives the effort in Cleveland (with professional staff ) who is directly betsywarner.com Get to a better State . Get State Farm. CALL ME TODAY. Heights to popularly elect a mayor. accountable to voters. Let’s be clear: there is no single There are those with concerns solution to the challenges Cleveland that a reformed system will invite Heights faces, some of which are root- outside influence from special in- ed beyond our community and beyond terests who could flood the local 1211030 State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL our ability to directly influence. All we mayoral campaign with political contributions. This implies that special interests currently have no influence on public policy-making, which is not true, though it may be more hid- den. It also ignores the reality that politically astute Cleveland Heights SUITES AVAILABLE voters will see through and reject blatant attempts by special interests Shaker Heights to manipulate our elections. Direct voter election of a mayor Cleveland Heights is consistent with the current trend to provide residents and citizens a Lakewood greater authentic voice—which is Cleveland essential to improve civil skills and competence, to increase a sense of community, and to make people feel more personally responsible for public decisions. There will be many possibili- ties to tap our collective skills as we • Large 1, 2 and 3 Bedrooms face a future of uncharted political, • Walking distance to CWRU, economic, social and ecological chal- Shaker Square and RTA lenges. An urgent first step, however, Refinished Kitchens • is to transform the “in-house” selec- • Hardwood Floors tion of the mayor to a public election. • Parking Cleveland Heights is our collective • Laundry Facilities “house.” All who dwell here should • Dishwasher and Disposal have the right to decide who will represent us. Greg Coleridge is national outreach director of Move to Amend Coalition, and a “All together Cleveland Heights resident. sunny, spacious, superbly maintained and well located apartments!”

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 20 www.heightsobserver.org OPINION Fostering a resilient city doesn’t demand change in form of government

Jill Tatem to refute each of those propositions. Certainly we have serious prob- munity of strongly held views, usually Here’s just a sample: lems, as do many inner-ring suburbs. conveyed quite emphatically. Many of Citizens for an Elected Mayor’s (CEM) • In 2018 violent crime decreased by 28 But these are not data that portray a our neighbors express frustration that advocacy for changing the form of percent, and burglaries and breaking city in severe decline. city government does not make deci- Cleveland Heights government from and entering by 50 percent from the Neither are these positive trends sions and implement programs more council/city manager to strong mayor previous year. an accident. They are the product of quickly. Just as many of us urge the relies on three propositions: • Median home-sale prices increased by effective and efficient management city to postpone decisions, gather more 1) Our city is in severe decline. 37 percent from 2014 to 2019. coupled with a seven-member city information, conduct another study, 2) The approach of our current city • In 2017 and 2018, 95 new businesses council, responsible for determining have more public meetings. Compro- government to our problems is opened in our city, nearly one each the city’s direction and priorities. Each mise does not come easily to us. The ineffectual. week. member is held accountable for those difficulty of balancing these compet- 3) We cannot solve those problems • Even at CEM meetings, participants decisions by the voters every two years. ing expectations will not evaporate unless we change the structure of praised our police, fire, public works A single-minded focus on a strong by changing our form of government. city government. departments, parks, and senior mayor overlooks the significance of CEM is proposing a hero-scape- I think there is ample evidence center. our city’s constrained resources. At goat model of leadership: one person, the same time the 2007–09 recession a full-time mayor, to articulate and created or exacerbated many of our implement our city’s vision. And one current problems, the city budget took person to blame when anything goes Where is the evidence that a strong- a significant hit when the state of Ohio wrong. abolished the estate tax and decimated But resilient cities are not built mayor system would be better for CH? the Local Government Fund. Our from the top down. They are the capacity to act was undermined by the result of individuals, neighborhood Jack Newman same crisis that created the need to act. groups, businesses, organizations, and geting redevelopment of the Sever- But we are recovering that lost government all accepting responsibil- In the nearly two years since a group ance property (75-percent outside- ground. City programs supporting ity for developing the community we promoting a strong mayor emerged, funded), followed by a request for businesses include a Commercial want to live in. Consolidating power in its members have poured out thou- proposals on redevelopment. Loan Program, Small Business Ad- one person does not foster a culture of sands of words. But they still have not • A self-funding foreclosure bond ministration Grant Program, Eco- shared responsibility. demonstrated (as opposed to merely program that requires financial in- nomic Development Fund, Micro- Our city’s problems were not claimed) that the daily lives of Cleve- stitutions to post a substantial bond enterprise Loan Fund, Storefront Re- caused by our government structure. land Heights residents would have to pay for potential code violations. habilitation Program, and others. In Nor will changing that structure been, or will be in the future, safer, • Partnership with FutureHeights in 2018 the Community Reinvestment solve those problems. We cannot more prosperous, or otherwise better a Community Development Corpo- Area designation made available afford to waste time and energy on if only the city were run by a political ration to deal with blighted homes. tax abatements for residential new ineffective measures that don’t ad- executive and appointed underlings. • A GSI mapping technology project construction or remodeling. Recent dress the root causes of our problems This failure is not surprising. There through the National Resource approval of the Caledonia Oppor- and risk disrupting recent progress. is no meaningful foundation for any Network and New York University tunity Zone is yet another program Maintaining the current form of such conclusion. The evidence points to help the Police and Housing to attract private investment in our government in Cleveland Heights strongly in the other direction. departments respond to nuisance city. Since 2016 the Safe Routes to is not an invitation to complacency Consider several developments properties. Schools initiative has brought almost and inaction. It is an opportunity to in our city in recent years under our • A stabilized bond rating, reflecting $1 million into our city and improved engage more actors in the vital work city council and professional execu- much-improved financial circum- bicycle and pedestrian safety. of improving our community. tive, all reflecting a sharp upswing: stances that have allowed increased A single-minded focus on a strong • A comprehensive, multi-year master budget allocations, and a five-year mayor overlooks the significance of our Jill Tatem is a longtime Cleveland Heights plan that addresses, with specific- capital plan. community’s culture. We are a com- resident. ity, housing, economic develop- • A Complete/Green Streets program ment, infrastructure, sustainability, developed and proceeding on many and much more. Execution on the fronts, ranked number one in the master plan is well underway, with nation, to optimize roadways for In support of an elected mayor quarterly updates to council. all users: pedestrians, bicyclists, • A 37-percent increase in single- disabled people and people of all Dennis Keating largely manages the city’s affairs. family home sale prices since 2014, ages, as well as motorists. Citizens for an Elected Mayor (CEM) (in the top third of cities in the Running a city is hard labor, When the city manager form of gov- proposes this type of governance on county) and continuing as one of calling for vision (as in the master ernment emerged in the Progressive the November ballot. the top cities in the county for the plan), diligent planning, and faith- reform era, it often did serve as a As Cheryl Stephens, former first half of 2019. ful execution day-to-day and over good government response to politi- Cleveland Heights City Coun- • Advanced-stage development at extended periods. Speculative as- cal corruption and incompetence. I cil member and mayor, and now Top of the Hill, following multiple sertions about a prospective nirvana believe that it no longer serves as the Cuyahoga County Council member, phases of planning and public input. following a jettisoning of the current best governance model for the city of argued in her opinion in the Septem- • Developer selected for a much- professional government in favor of Cleveland Heights. Our city has been ber issue of the Heights Observer: expanded, mixed-use project at a powerful political mayor should challenged on many fronts as it has “Strong mayors . . . have respon- Cedar/Lee/Meadowbrook. carry no weight—particularly when had to compete not only with exurbs sibilities and can take action. They • Designation of the city as a Com- considered against the hard evidence in the region but also with some of set priorities and build support for munity Reinvestment Area with of substantial progress our city gov- Cleveland’s inner-ring suburbs (e.g., them. By combining administrative accompanying tax abatement, on ernment has been making for the Lakewood). responsibility and political account- a basis that can accommodate well-being of our citizens and the To compete successfully—to ability, a strong mayor can engage the particular needs of the Noble big risks and major unknowns a new retain present, and attract new, resi- and focus community attention in neighborhood. government structure would bring. dents and businesses in the face of ways a city manager can’t.” • A formal, outside-funded planning No city is without its needs and factors such as population decline, I agree with Stephens and also study of the Noble Road Corridor, issues. After all, that’s why we have more aging residents, a housing stock with her rejection of arguments that and early county funding for repav- government in the first place. Our that has problems, and reliance upon question the viability of the elected ing of Noble Road. council/manager system continues to a mostly residential tax base—the strong-mayor system. While admit- • Development of the College Club serve us well in systematically tack- city needs to take more aggressive tedly not all such mayors will be the property into residential units. ling what lies before us. The effort to and innovative action. The city best leaders, I am confident that the • Ongoing process to acquire the discard that system is unwise, desta- manager system does not readily lend voters of Cleveland Heights can and Taylor-Tudor buildings for redevel- bilizing, and a thorough disservice to itself to this. will choose among highly qualified opment, to revitalize the area from the citizens of Cleveland Heights. It Almost all other local govern- choices of future candidates for the Cedar to Superior. should be rejected. ments in Cuyahoga County have position of elected mayor. • Designation as a Certified Local elected “strong” mayors who can Government, facilitating investor Jack Newman, a retired lawyer, is the provide needed leadership. Shaker Dennis Keating is a professor emeritus at applications for historic tax credits former chair of the Charter Review Heights provides a model of a strong Cleveland State University’s Levin College of on redevelopment projects. Commission, and is co-chair of Cleveland elected mayor, while a chief adminis- Urban Affairs, a 36-year resident of Cleveland • A completed feasibility study tar- Heights Citizens for Good Government. trative officer reporting to the mayor Heights, and a FutureHeights board member.

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 21 www.heightsobserver.org CLASSIFIEDS

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 22 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS LIBRARIES

Heights Libraries embraces What’s going on at your library? fandom with fall programs Coventry Village Library Noble Neighborhood Library 1925 Coventry Road, 216-321-3400 2800 Noble Road, 216-291-5665

Isabelle Rew Monday, Oct. 21, 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, 7 p.m. trivia night and a gaming series. Escape the Room: The Haunted Man- Ohio Spirits with Jim Kleefeld. This fall, Heights Libraries will “We are hoping to reach those sion. Can you solve the puzzles and Kleefeld returns with another host a series of programs that people who want to share their escape the haunted mansion before ghostly program! In Ohio Spirits, celebrate the books, movies and passions or perhaps explore new time is up? Test your skills as you hear about dead spirits who stayed cultural phenomena that have ones with members of the com- work with a team to try to beat the behind, and the artifacts they drawn people in and inspired fol- munity,” said L.P. Coladangelo, clock. Registration required. inhabit. Kleefeld’s stories and arti- lowers to transcend the original adult services associate. “There’s facts from across Ohio include tales piece and make it their own. nothing more contagious than Lee Road Library of the boy in the box, the man in the “Few among us are new to the enthusiasm, and we want to give 2345 Lee Road, 216-932-3600 photo, and more. experience of seeing a favorite TV fans the opportunity to celebrate show get cancelled, or reading what it is they love and appreciate Sunday, Oct. 13, 2 p.m. University Heights Library an enthralling series to its finale about a particularly compelling Indigenous Peoples Read-In. Celebrate 13866 Cedar Road, 216-321-4700 and longing to stay in touch with story.” the voices of indigenous peoples. that world,” said Greg Osborn, Programs will include book You’re encouraged to bring a short Tuesday, Oct. 8, 6:30 p.m. adult services librarian. “Whether discussions of Good Omens by Neil selection from a Native American Movies for Fans of Musicals. Do you it’s sports, music, art, film, or a Gaiman and Terry Pratchett and or other indigenous writer to share, have a song in your heart? Join us thrilling read, die-hard fans have by Richard Ad- Watership Down or simply be part of the audience. for a screening of “Little Shop of expanded on the stories they love ams, a study group at the Cleve- Co-sponsored by Friends of the Horrors” (1986, 88 min., PG-13), in through the development of dis- land Museum of Art on the topic Heights Libraries. Registration which a quiet, shy flower-shop em- cussion groups, fan fiction and of fans and fanatics in the arts, recommended for those who want ployee finds an extraordinary plant even cosplay.” sports- and musical-themed movie to read at the event. with unusual appetites. While fan culture might nights, and an open-mic Harry seem a product of the Internet Potter fan fiction night. age, wherein online forums teem The 1986 film “Little Shop with theories dissecting every of Horrors,” one of those stories plot twist, fandom dates back showing Oct. 8, 6:30 p.m., at the to the turn of the century, with University Heights branch, is MJM Window Restoration Arthur Conan Doyle’s creation based on the 1982 off-Broadway Preserve the historic look of your home. of his iconic character Sherlock musical, which is itself based on . sticky windows . cracked glass Holmes. Early fans of the deduc- a 1960 movie of the same name. . broken ropes . weather stripping tive detective were not satisfied The film has spawned fan fiction, just reading the books; they took a cartoon show, yearly screenings (216) 321-7729 • mjmwindowrestoration.com matters into their own hands, im- and multiple new musical open- mersing themselves in his world by ings on and off Broadway. designing their own mysteries in “Fandom is a great way to homage to Holmes himself. And bring people together and inspire with that, the fan was born. creativity,” Osborn explained. “At the end of the day, people “It’s always exciting when you find who appreciate books and mov- a group of people that you can ies can put them aside and not completely connect with about a think about them. They can say, subject, whether totally fantasti- ‘I like that, but it’s time to move cal or a reflection of our everyday on with my life’,” said Osborn. lives. And that’s what the library “Fanatics, on the other hand, live is really about.” WEYBRIDGE ROAD ~ SHAKER HEIGHTS and breathe their chosen subjects. For a full schedule of Heights Stunning Brick Georgian Offers So Much They become a part of the legacy Libraries fandom-inspired pro- of the story, and in doing so, the grams, visit www.heightslibrary. SUSAN DELANEY story never has to end.” org. SUSAN DELANEY ABR®,RRS,CNE® Heights Libraries will em- A 2019 Cleveland Magazine Top Realtor brace fan culture by hosting 20 Isabelle Rew is the community en- Email: [email protected] programs about subjects people gagement associate for the Cleveland Web: susandelaney.howardhanna.com can’t seem to let go of, including Heights-University Heights Public film screenings, book discussions, Library System.

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 23 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS BUSINESS Call for Heights Holiday Gift Guide entries Deanna Bremer Fisher unique items Heights retailers are $50 to $150, Gifts More Than $150, FutureHeights has issued a call for offering this holiday season and as- and Gifts For the Person Who Has entries for its annual Holiday Gift sist them in “shopping local first” It All. Guide that the Heights Observer to support the local economy. Heights retail business owners will publish in its November issue. The 2019 guide will contain are invited to e-mail high-reso- Entries are due by Oct. 18. listings in each of the following lution photos and brief descrip- The guide is designed to help categories: Stocking Stuffers ($10 tions of items they would like to Heights residents discover the or less), Gifts Less Than $50, Gifts be considered for publication in the 2019 guide to Jessica Schantz ([email protected]) no later than Oct. 18. Put “Holiday Gift Guide” in the subject line. Entries must be purchasable at a brick and mortar store, and not The guide will appear in the No- available exclusively online. vember print issue of the Heights Submit the following for each Observer, as well as in weekly item: item category (one of the e-newsletters in the lead-up to five categories listed above), item the holidays, and online at www. name, item price, name of business heightsobserver.org. submitting the item, and a JPG The annual guide is just one of photo of the item. Please limit the ways in which FutureHeights VisitVisit thethe newnew cafécafé onon CoventryCoventry descriptive text for each item to supports locally owned, indepen- one sentence, or no more than 30 dent Heights businesses and en- words. courages residents to “shop local” The guide will remind readers for the holidays. that local retailers have gift cards for goods or services, so there is no Deanna Bremer Fisher is executive di- need to submit those as items for rector of FutureHeights and publisher consideration. of the Heights Observer.

Voted #1 by Rachel Ray for outstanding quality, freshness and taste Fair Trade Expo comes to JCU Our Macarons are famous in New York, but you’ll love our other café favorites, too! European, French & Artisan Pastries · Donuts · Ice cream · Soups · Import coffee · andwichesS and more Rachel Jewell certified Kosher Products · Vegan and Gluten-Free options for those with food sensitivities 1767 Coventry Rd, Cleveland Heights “There is no bet- Mon-Fri: 6 am-9 pm | Sat: 10-10 | Sun: 10-8 ter way to eradicate poverty, strengthen families, and better our global community than through the empowerment Ranked #1 of women,” said Best All-Girls High School in Ohio Kara Valentine, co- founder of Threads COURTESY THREADS WORLDWIDE COURTESY Worldwide, a social Angela Melfi and Kara Valentine, founders of Threads Worldwide, enterprise that pro- are keynote speakers at the Ohio Fair Trade Teach-In & Expo. vides sustainable income opportunities One of the BEST for women worldwide through the vides an ideal opportunity for early creation and sale of fair trade jew- holiday shopping. girls’ schools in elry and accessories. “Not only does the fair trade Valentine and Angela Melfi, market provide handmade, unique Threads co-founder, will be the goods to give as thoughtful gifts the country is keynote speakers at the Ohio Fair to your friends and family, but it Trade Teach-in & Expo on Saturday, provides an opportunity to shop Oct. 26, at John Carroll University’s your values; providing opportuni- right around Dolan Science Center. ties, empowerment and advantages Fair trade, a system of com- to those living in poverty situations merce that is respectful and equita- and allowing them to create long- the corner in ble to both purchasers and produc- lasting, meaningful change in their ers, has made access to education, own lives as well,” said Laura Potter- dignified housing, and work much Sadowski, manager of One World Shaker Heights. more possible. This, in turn, means Shop, Cleveland’s oldest nonprofit that families have a greater chance fair trade organization. of staying together and avoiding The Ohio Fair Trade Teach-in & a treacherous journey to migrate Expo will take place Oct. 26, from elsewhere. 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Registration Sharing the success stories of is free through Eventbrite. artisans and partners who are work- Lunch will be available for pur- ing in fair trade communities, and chase from the Italian Creations bringing fairly traded goods to the food truck and from nearby eater- Northeast Ohio market, are the ies. Attendees are welcome to bring main goals of the Ohio Fair Trade their own lunch or snacks. Expo. Now in its 14th year, the hb.edu expo showcases approximately 30 Rachel Jewell is a member of the Ohio vendors displaying work by artisans Fair Trade Network and a fair trade from throughout the world and pro- advocate.

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 24 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS ARTS LEI youth writers attend international congress in San Juan Shari Nacson tions worldwide that believe “young ensuring a supported infrastructure, people need places where they can can thrive. Said Travis, “When you Three veteran Lake Erie Ink (LEI) write and be heard, where they can are young and a creative or activist, participants attended the second have their voices polished, published, it is hard to not feel small when your International Congress of Youth and amplified.” role models are all adults. Surrounded Voices, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, If that mission sounds familiar, by so many creatives and activists Aug. 7–11. This year’s congress gath- it may be because Cleveland Heights- in my age range was uplifting and ered 130 young writers and activists, based LEI is a member of the al- inspiring.” ages 16–20, from all around the liance. Rosenbluth has found the Travis believes her creative work world, with the goal of enabling them relationship to be fortifying, in terms and social activism will be changed

to learn with and from accomplished of developing best practice models by this experience. She explained, LEI COURTESY writers, activists and elected officials. and building a sense of community “Listening, learning, and advocating LEI participants Grace Yoo, Rachel Kelly, and Ayelet Travis enroute to the International Con- For the three local delegates, the that is not bound by geography. for those who suffer from oppres- gress of Youth Voices in San Juan, Puerto Rico. selection process began with LEI This year’s delegates participated sion isn’t enough. Often we ride the nominating them to the 2019 Con- in public performances and program- social-justice wave and only listen To read about the 2019 del- gress. After acceptance and submis- ming that included open mic nights, to who everyone else is listening egates, visit www.internationalcon- sion of required materials, Tess Kelly poetry slams, writing workshops, and to (which often are the people who gressofyouthvoices.com. To learn more (of Pepper Pike), Ayelet Travis (of a teen editors/book project. have the most privilege within the about Lake Erie Ink and its upcom- University Heights), and Grace Yoo The five-day event included group). After the congress, I have ing events and programs, including (of Mayfield Heights), traveled with “many amazing and inspiring edu- made it a point to actively seek out The College Essay Workshop (Oct. Amy Rosenbluth, LEI’s executive cators and activists,” said Travis, a marginalized voices, listen to their 2), Teen Writing workshops, and a director, to be part of the event. Fuchs Mizrahi and Heights High stories, learn from their perspec- Stories of Suspense writing work- According to the congress, “stu- alum. “Between seminars, we got tives, and then advocate for them and shop (Oct. 26), visit https://lakeerie- dent delegates are chosen based on to explore the beautiful city of San educate my community about their ink.org. their commitment to leadership and Juan and volunteer with an organi- struggles.” social justice and their passion and zation that aims to rebuild Puerto The congress covered lodging Mostly a mom, Shari Nacson, is a freelance eloquence as writers.” This oppor- Rico.” and meals for student delegates, editor, social worker, and nonprofit consul- tunity to cultivate leadership among For Travis, the most meaningful who paid their own way. The three tant who makes her home in Cleveland accomplished youth was created by aspect of the congress was meeting LEI-affiliated youth writers received Heights. More than anything, Nacson is author Dave Eggers and nonprofit other delegates in a setting where partial financial assistance and a inspired by kids and adults who build leader Amanda Uhle. peer mentorship, with invested adults chaperone via LEI. connection through kindness. Many participants are identified through the International Alliance of Youth Writing Centers, a group comprising more than 60 organiza- Burning River Baroque to perform at Blank Canvas CLE

Paula Maust

Thoughtfully crafted programs inspired by the current social cli- mate are at the heart of Burning River Baroque’s eighth season, which focuses on unconventional 17th-century women and percep- Open tions of mental health. Known for its socially motivated program- House ming and dynamic interpreta- tions of early modern music, the group will bring “A Mad, Burning November 10 Desire” to Blank Canvas CLE on Oct. 19. 2-4 pm The performers will also engage Montessori the audience with dialogues about the myriad ways the perception of mental illness in the early modern period is directly related to the Builds.Learn How. stigma surrounding mental health in contemporary times. Visit Ruffing as we celebrate 60 years of providing innovative Praised as a group that “left an indelible imprint on my psyche” Montessori education. Our curriculum builds upon a (Boston Musical Intelligencer), Burning child-centered approach, producing confident, inquisitive, River Baroque offers vibrant musical performances that inspire engag- independent learners who are prepared to be compassionate, ing dialogues and meaningful social collaborative citizens of the world. change. See “A Mad, Burning Desire” on Oct. 19, 7:30 p.m., at Blank Canvas Schedule your visit today! CLE (2174 Lee Road). More information is available at www.burning-river- baroque.org. ruffingmontessori.net

Paula Maust (harpsichord) is co-director, 216.321.7571 with Malina Rauschenfels (soprano), of 3380 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights Burning River Baroque.

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 25 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS ARTS Dobama presents new Will Eno play The Fairmount exhibits CH Gavin Hubbard cancer. Trying to comprehend the Mirto. possibility of losing a close friend, Performances are Thursdays artist’s fiber series Dobama Theatre continues its 60th Eno was inspired to write a play that at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays Anniversary season with “Wakey, deals with the complexities of dying at 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Wakey” by Will Eno. The play runs and loss. In naming the play, Eno said Tickets are $32–$38. Senior, student Oct. 18 through Nov. 10. he wanted something that had the and military discounts are available. The New York Times called the sense of “time to get up,” and also of For more information and to play “profoundly moving,” and an Irish wake. purchase tickets, call the box office Variety described it as “a work of Eno is an American playwright at 216-932-3396, or visit www.dobama. humor, humanity and grace that based in Brooklyn, N.Y. His play, org. The box office is open Monday makes you want to hug your lover, “Thom Pain (based on nothing)” through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., your neighbor and maybe an usher was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m., during on the way out.” This new play from in Drama in 2005. Eno’s “The Real- performance weeks, and one hour Pulitzer Prize-nominee Will Eno istic Joneses” appeared on Broadway before all performances (when all (“The Realistic Joneses,” “Middle- in 2014, where it received a Drama remaining tickets are available at the town,” “Thom Pain”) features a guy Desk Special Award and was named pay-as-you-can rate). named Guy who knows, like all of Best Play on Broadway by USA In an effort to remove economic COURTESY SADYE MASCIA SADYE COURTESY us on some level, that he is about to Today, and best American play of barriers and to make Dobama’s pro- Katie Mongoven’s fiber art is on exhibit at The die. Guy engages in a conversation 2014 by The Guardian. His play “The ductions accessible to everyone, the Fairmount through Nov. 28. about life and what is worth cel- Open House” was presented off- first Sunday of every production is ebrating, what is worth treasuring, Broadway at the Signature Theatre pay-as-you-can . Sunday, Oct. 20 at Sadye Mascia and what is worth letting go in this in 2014 and won the Obie Award for 7:30 p.m. is the pay-what-you-can moving and hilarious play. Playwriting as well as other awards, performance. Katie Mongoven is the latest artist “Wakey, Wakey” is the final and was on both Time magazine and to have her work featured at The piece Eno wrote in his five-year Time Out New York’s Top Ten Plays Gavin Hubbard is Dobama Theatre’s Fairmount, as part of its emerging residency with Signature Theatre. He of 2014. administrative intern and a graduate artist exhibition program. The ex- explained that, during his residency, “Wakey, Wakey” features Jason of Heidelberg University, where he is hibition features Morgoven’s fiber Jim Houghton, the theatre’s artistic Martin as Guy and Katrice Headd as currently pursuing an M.B.A. in arts series, Periodic, and will be on view director, had been diagnosed with Lisa, and is directed by Christopher administration. until Nov. 28. Mongoven, who lives and works in Cleveland Heights, is known for her use of vibrant color and attention to detail—bringing unique patterns into focus. She began the Periodic series at the Vermont Studio Center last winter, as an exploration of embroidery and a denaturing of its established purpose as a decorative embellish- ment. Each piece bonds the intan- gible qualities of light and color with Make Your Next Chapter an Adventure. texture, pulling inspiration from traditional quilt-making, geometry and pattern-making. Her work has previously been shown at Arc Gallery in Chicago and site:Brooklyn in Brooklyn, N.Y. She received her degree in fine arts from the University of Michigan. To view more of her work, visit www.ktmongoven.com. The Fairmount is located at 2448 Fairmount Blvd. It is open Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Sadye Mascia is a freelance journalist living in Boston. A Cleveland native, she attended Beaumont School in Cleveland Heights. Get ready to connect, engage and be inspired by

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 26 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS ARTS First concert in chamber music series is Oct. 13

Tickets for Japanese & Malaysian Cuisine Casual Asian Fusion Close Encounters in- 216-320-2302 216-320-9008 dividual concerts, 1763 Coventry Road, CH 13911 Cedar Road, S. Euclid as well as full-se- www.pacificeastcoventry.com www.pacificgrillcedar.com ries subscriptions, are on sale at www. heightsarts.org/concerts. Untouched: The Digital Paradox,

COURTESY HEIGHTS ARTS HEIGHTS COURTESY is on view at Heights Arts through Sun- day, Oct. 13. In this

COURTESY HEIGHTS ARTS HEIGHTS COURTESY unique exhibition, Musicians perform at a 2018 Heights Arts Close Encounters concert in organized by guest a Herrick Mews carriage house. curator Matthew Hollern of the Cleve- Laura Freeman land Institute of Art, technology and art work together in some unexpected October marks the opening of the ways. 2019–20 Close Encounters chamber In the Spotlight gallery, work by music concert series. Now in its 14th photographer and mixed-media art- season, Close Encounters celebrates ist Jamie Richey is on view through Heights Arts’ 20th anniversary with Oct. 27. four unique afternoons of chamber Heights Arts will kick off the music performed by some of the world’s holiday season with the opening of its finest musicians—who just happen to 2019 Holiday Store on Nov. 1. Open live here in the Cleveland area. seven days a week, the annual holi- The first concert, to be hosted at day shop showcases 100-plus artists a historic carriage house in Herrick working in many mediums, including Mews, will take place on Sunday, ceramics, jewelry and metals, and Oct. 13, at 3 p.m. glass (many unique holiday orna- Performing is the Omni Quartet, ments), making it a place to shop who will present Robert Schumann’s for unique gifts from local artists. String Quartet in A-minor, written dur- The 2019 Holiday Store will be open ing a brief and singular period of hap- through Dec. 30. piness in his otherwise melancholy For more information on Heights life. Musicians in the Omni Quartet Arts community programs and are also members of the Cleveland events, including house concerts, Orchestra. gallery performances and outreach, The second concert in the series visit www.heightsarts.org. will take place at Dunham Tavern on Sunday, Nov. 24, with subsequent con- Laurel Freeman is a marketing intern at certs planned for March 1 and May 3. Heights Arts. Right Now! Annual benefit event will Fair Trade & Immigration feature Ohio’s poet laureate Donna Johnson Reserve University. Oh io’s poet Past speakers at the event have laureate, Dave included other area writers, including Lucas, will read award-winning novelists Mary Doria his work at the Russell and D.M. Pulley, and mystery eighth annual writer Annie Hogsett. “Afternoon PEO International (www. with an Author,” peointernational.org), organized in

COURTESY DONNA JOHNSON COURTESY hosted by the 1869, is a nonprofit, philanthropic Dave Lucas C l e v e l a n d educational organization of women Heights Chapter Q of Philanthropic that raises money for women’s Educational Organization (PEO) education. It has about a half- International. The poetry reading will million members in the United be followed by a Q&A session, a book States and Canada, and chapters are signing, and a dessert reception on designated by letters, not numbers or Saturday, Nov. 2, 2 p.m., at Forest Hill geographical location. Ticket sales TEACH-IN & EXPO Presbyterian Church (3031 Monticello will benefit its International Project Blvd.). Tickets are $20. for Women’s Education. Book sales October 26, 2019 Lucas’ first book of poems, will benefit A Cultural Exchange, a 9:30a - 3:30p Weather, received the 2012 Ohioana nonprofit organization promoting John Carroll University, Book Award for Poetry. Pulitzer literacy. Dolan Center Prize-winning poet Rita Dove named For tickets or more information, Free Admission him one of 13 “young poets to watch.” contact Katie Rarick at 847-204-1555 Lucas has also received a Discovery/ or [email protected]. The Nation Prize and a Cleveland Arts Prize. In 2018, he was appointed Donna Johnson is a member of Cleveland the second Poet Laureate of the Heights Chapter Q of P.E.O International State of Ohio. He lives in Cleveland and a proud resident of Cleveland Heights ohiofairtrade.com Heights, and teaches at Case Western since 1995.

Heights Observer October 1, 2019 27 www.heightsobserver.org HEIGHTS ARTS

boys, I want teams one and two over My awesome sports career there, and teams two and three over there.” So, team two ran back and out at Cumberland every day—mostly forth, not knowing where to go, and SONGS AND playing tether ball, which I still think team four just stood there watching. STORIES should be an Olympic sport—this man, My friend, who helped out in the Mr. Tupta, Roosevelt Junior High’s school’s athletic offices, described guidance counselor, came around and this coach as the kind of guy who David Budin started timing kids in the 50-yard dash, sticks his head into a room that has in search of participants for the upcom- one person in it and says, “Anybody Most of the way through Coventry ing Junior Olympics. I did well, and he want any coffee?” Elementary School, I was a chubby wanted me to run in that event, but I But my most memorable gym kid who hated sports (except for declined (I don’t remember why). But class was the day our teacher, Coach baseball, though I wasn’t very good he strongly suggested that I try out for Cappelletti, had to attend a meeting at it). And I always hated running— the Roosevelt football team in the fall, and put all four of our period’s gym

except to first base, after hitting because I was fast and big. He thought classes—100 guys—together in the BUDIN DAVID COURTESY the ball in a baseball game, though, I could be a ball carrier. gym to play battle ball. The substitute I’m standing right next to Coach Jackson—No. fortunately, I guess, that situation Except that when I tried out, and gym teacher laid out the rules. He 41. For some reason, my shoulder pads were much smaller than everyone else’s. Maybe was pretty rare. made the team, we all figured out that I said, “Okay, boys, when you get hit, that’s why playing on the line was so painful. But then, around the fifth grade, couldn’t see much without my glasses— be honest and raise your hand and go I started getting taller. By the sixth and that included the ball—so Coach sit on the side.” who, by then, had become one of the grade, I was among the tallest kids Jackson put me on the line. Which My friend Bellamy and I both—as state’s best high school basketball in the school. I didn’t realize that I was awful. But I lasted the full season. soon as one ball was thrown—raised coaches. (He died a few months ago.) was never going to grow any taller. Because I didn’t play very much. The our hands and sat down on the side. Cappalletti and I talked for a while But it was nice for a few years. Then, next year I played a lot. Enough that After watching for a minute, I said to and I told him the battle ball story, starting in, maybe, the ninth grade, I halfway through the season I quit. I also him, “Look, let’s just go get dressed which I thought he might find amus- got shorter every year. (Not literally, ran track at Roosevelt, which was much and take off. There’s a hundred guys ing. He began to apologize, and I of course. That’s happening now.) nicer than football. Except for all that here. And chaos. No one will know.” stopped him and said, “No. You were Then, when I got to Heights High, running we had to do in training. So that So, that’s what we did. While we were right. You were doing your job.” I had to try to remember which kids was the end of my athletic career. All I walking through the hall, on our way He thanked me. I thought about I might have bullied during my tall really wanted to do was music, anyway. to freedom, I joked that we’d probably it for a second and I said, “No. Thank years. Though at Heights High we did run into Cappalletti, who would say, you.” But, going back to sixth grade have to go to gym class. The first “Budin? Bellamy” Where you guys and my sudden tallness, and its resul- semester, my gym teacher was the headed?” We laughed, and immedi- David Budin is a freelance writer for national tant thinness, another unexpected school’s football coach. The class was ately ran into Cappalletti, who said, and local publications, the former editor of result was speediness. I suddenly fun, in a way, mainly because he said “Budin? Bellamy? Where you guys Cleveland Magazine and Northern Ohio became a really fast runner. things like, “Okay, boys, run on the headed?” Live, an author, and a OHIO EXCELLENCE In the summer, between sev- count of three. One, two, three, ready, We received some kind of suspen- professional musician and IN JOURNALISM AWARDS 2019 enth and eighth grades, my second GO.” Which meant that every one of sion. About 30 years later, when I was comedian. His writing summer playing for Cumberland us false-started. And, after dividing the doing some kind of volunteering at focuses on the arts and, es- BEST COLUMN Park’s softball team and hanging class into four football teams: “Okay, Heights High, I ran into Cappalletti, pecially, pop-music history.

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Heights Observer October 1, 2019 28 www.heightsobserver.org