NovemberHome Delivery 11, 2008 Now Available! CallThe 216-228-7223 Lakewood Observer Page Free – Take One! Please Patronize Our Advertisers!
Your Independent Source For Local News And Opinion – An Official Google News Source
Volume 4, Issue 23, November 11, 2008 Residents And City Fix Up Parks Lakewood Launches Housing Initiative by Melissa Garrett At the October 20th Lakewood City Council Meeting, Mayor Ed FitzGerald presented his 2008 Housing Initiative to Lakewood City Council. The mayor’s housing working group presented suggestions earlier this year which were incorporated into the com- prehensive program. “The quality of Lakewood’s hous- ing stock is a key factor in its success or failure in the years to come,” state Mayor FitzGerald. “New challenges demand that Lakewood reassess its housing strategy. While Lakewood cannot control national economic downturns or banking policies, it can control its own investment strategies and building code enforcement efforts.” Mayor’s FitzGerald’s housing ini- tiative takes a two-pronged approach: it encourages investment by homeown- ers, while streamlining and toughening enforcement measures. It is hoped that Friends of Madison Park left to right: Joe Beno, Dave Seman, Paul Burke, Judy Grzyboski, Mary Louise Madigan, Karen Kura- this balanced approach will help sustain mot (in back), Tessa and Parker Smith, Mayor Fitzgerald, Travis Gallagher and daughters, Valerie Molinski and kids, Mel Page, Lakewood’s housing stock, much of which Margaret and Katherine Cooney, George Graham & Michael Fleenor and kids. Thank you for your hard work and dedication. is now entering its second century. More Photos Inside And Online! continued on page 4... http://lakewoodobserver.com Mayor’s Charity Ball at Beck Center by Holly Lauch and The Lakewood Public Library. Mayor Ed FitzGerald is hosting The evening will include live music a Charity Ball at the Beck Center on from three local bands as well as the Pre- Saturday, November 15th at 7:00 p.m. sentation of the Key to the City. Charles All proceeds will support the quality Geiger will be the recipient of this Key. education and theater programs which Charles is a long time Lakewood resi- benefit Lakewood’s community. dent, business owner, member of the The Beck Center for the Arts, located School Board and is dedicated to serv- at 17801 Detroit Avenue, is the larg- ing the community in a variety of ways. est cultural institution on Cleveland’s Tickets are available in advance for west side. It provides a broad range of a suggested contribution of $75/$100 at art education and has been serving the the door. Black tie is optional. For addi- community for over 75 years. tional information, please contact Holly Several Lakewood restaurants and Lauch at [email protected]. businesses have graciously agreed to con- Fred DeGrandis, president and CEO Cleveland Clinic Regional Hospitals; Jack tribute to this fundraising event. The In This Issue Gustin, president of Lakewood Hospital; Atef Eltomey, MD; Stephen Samples, sponsors include: Aladdin’s Eatery, The Events & Notices...... 2 MD; Michael Modic, MD, chairman of the Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute; Beck Café, Brennan’s Floral Gift Shop, Samuel Borsellino, MD; Michael Mervart, MD Dewey’s Pizza, Edible Arrangements, Elm- Lakewood City News...... 4 wood Home Bakery, Friendly Mini Mart, Lakewood Public Library .. 5-7 Neurological Institute At Lakewood India Garden, Italian Creations, North Coast Wine and Beer, Players on Madi- Lakewood Cares ...... 8 Hospital Opens New Doors son, Rozi’s Wine House, Sakura Japanese Cleveland Clinic Neurological cal Institute organizes the entire Restaurant, Sam’s Food and Beverage and Lakewood Health News...... 9 Institute at Lakewood Hospital has healthcare team around organ and Sweet Designs Chocolatier. Needless to opened its new doors to patients. The disease systems, rather than individ- say, people will not go home hungry. Campaign 2008...... 10-11 Institute, located on the first floor of ual specialties. Our multidisciplinary In addition to the sponsors, the Lakewood Schools...... 12 the hospital, will be home to some of approach puts our patients first and at event is supported by a Host Committee the world’s most advanced treatments the center of care, which is the driving which includes: Lakewood City Coun- Lakewood Is Art...... 13 for neurological conditions. The Cleve- force behind expanding our services cil, Lakewood Alive, Cleveland Clinic land Clinic Neurological Institute first at Lakewood Hospital,” said Michael Health Systems, Lakewood Hospital, Madison Kids Park ...... 14 announced its expansion to Lakewood T. Modic, M.D., F.A.C.R., Chairman, Lakewood City School Board, Lakewood Conservation Corner...... 18 Hospital in August 2007. This new Cleveland Clinic Neurological Insti- Chamber of Commerce, First Federal facility will allow the Institute to pro- tute. “I look forward to expanding of Lakewood, Lakewood/Rocky River Pulse Of The City...... 19 vide more comprehensive services on the institute’s services in the coming Sunrise Club and Rotary, Kiwanis, Pil- Cleveland’s West side. lars of Lakewood, Junior Women’s Club Classifieds...... 20 “Cleveland Clinic Neurologi- continued on page 9 of Lakewood, The Lakewood Observer
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page The Lakewood Observer November 11, 2008
Events & Notices The Lakewood Observer is pleased to publish Notices on a first-come first-serve basis. Please be patient with us as we have a limited amount of free space available for these items. All notices must be submitted through the Member Center at www.lakewoodobserver.com Ohio Department Of Insurance To Host Medicare Check-Up Days by Dan Slife ber 31. People on Medicare have several ment’s Ohio Senior Health Insurance Other topics include significant options they can learn about. They can Information Program (OSHIIP) rep- savings on prescription drug costs for The Ohio Department of Insur- choose Original Medicare for their resentatives will provide information those with limited incomes; how to save ance is conducting a series of Medicare health coverage needs and pair it with on recent Medicare changes, explain the using retail discount drug plans; drug Check-Up Days in each of Ohio’s 88 a stand-alone Part D plan to get their different coverage options, run compari- company patient assistance programs; counties. They will be held starting prescription drug coverage. They could son reports on various plans and advise Medicare’s preventive benefits and in the fall and run until December 31. also select a Medicare Advantage Plan, beneficiaries if they can coordinate other managing expenses during the Part D The Lakewood Public Library, 15425 which provides comprehensive health coverages such as Veterans Administra- coverage “doughnut hole,” or gap in cov- Detroit Ave. at Arthur Ave., Lakewood, benefits including drug coverage; or tion along with that of Part D. erage. Attendees are encouraged to bring OH will be hosting an event on Decem- they may determine their existing For events Nov. 15 and later, a list of their prescriptions drugs, dos- ber 15th, from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. coverage already meets their health OSHIIP can help beneficiaries enroll in ages and preferred pharmacy, as well as The Check-Up Days complement insurance needs. Medicare coverage their Medicare coverage of choice. Now any information on pension, VA or other Medicare’s annual open enrollment or secured through open enrollment will in its 16th year, OSHIIP is the state’s medical care benefits they are receiving. “coordinated election” period, which begin January 1, 2009. lead program for Medicare informa- For a complete listing of available starts November 15 and ends Decem- At each Check-Up Day, the Depart- tion and enrollment assistance. Part D and Medicare Advantage plans, visit www.medicare.gov. Those with Medicare questions and who need Lakewood Early Childhood PTA Presents A enrollment assistance (starting Nov. 15) can call OSHIIP at 1-800-686-1578 or Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1- Free Program On Geneology And Family History 800-633-4227). A listing of Medicare by Jill Carson will highlight important resources in her research into local cemeteries. She Check-Up Days is available on the Greater Cleveland, including on-line is the author of three books - Cleve- Department’s web site at www.ohio- Lakewood Early Childhood PTA resources, and will explain how to fill land Cemeteries, Finding Your Family insurance.gov. presents, “Genealogy and Family His- out a five-generation chart. Aspects of History in Northeast Ohio, and Cem- tory – What is it? Is it important to this program could easily become part eteries of Northeast Ohio. my family? And how do I get started?” of your Thanksgiving holiday! As with all LECPTA programs, Want to work on your family tree, but Vicki is a native Clevelander, grad- this presentation is free and open to the Your Independent Source for don’t know where to start? uate of Brush High and Kent State public. The program will start at 7:45 Lakewood News & Opinion Local author, Vicki Vigil, explains University. As a social worker she has pm at Harding Middle School’s cafe- The LAKEWOOD OBSERVER is pub- worked in with abused and neglected torium. The school is located at 16601 lished biweekly by Lakewood Observer, where and how to begin your search. Inc., 14900 Detroit Avenue, Suite 309, She will show examples of documents children psychiatric hospitals and as a Madison (the corner of Wagar and Lakewood, OH 44107. important to the search and tell us home and school counselor in Euclid. Madison). Parking is available behind how and where to find them. Vicki Her interest in genealogy grew from the school. 216.228.7223 Copyright 2006 Lakewood Observer, Inc. All rights reserved. Any reproduction is Healthy Holiday Meal Creations... forbidden without written permission. Publisher Lower Fat & Sugar But Still Delicious Jim O’Bryan Editor in CHief Dan Slife by Evin Bodell November 15th from 2-4 PM. Learn decreasing fat and sugar from your diet ADVERTISING how to turn raw foods into delicious can produce measurable benefits in 216.228.7223 Westside Yoga Studio located culinary creations this holiday sea- increasingnutritional value and con- at 17100 Detroit Ave in Lakewood is son. Surprise your friends and family trolling weight gain. Sample tastes and Advisory Board Contributing Kenneth Warren Writers offering a special 2 hour workshop with dishes sure to please the most recipes are included in this workshop. Steve Davis Carl Baldesare with Janee Kuta Liano, Raw Food Chef stubborn of palates. Janee will pro- What are the benefits of eating a Heidi Hilty Thealexa Becker Evin Bodell vide information and guidance on how living and raw food diet? D.L. Meckes and Cleanse/Detox Expert on Saturday Dan Ott Jill Carson Whether you are eating a little Jeff Endress Justine Cooper Melissa Garrett CORNER or a lot, raw and living foods provide Lauren Fine Steve Ott John Guscott AROUND THE high-quality nutrition while naturally Liz Guscott supporting both proper digestion and Editorial Board Amy Kloss Wednesdays... Thealexa Becker Ruthie Koenigsmark a well-functioning immune system. Margaret Brinich Anne Kuenzel Eating these life-giving foods helps to Ruthie Koenigsmark Holly Lauch Kimberly Nee Rhonda Loje alkalize the body, a key factor in build- Matthew Nee Barbara Michel • Chiropractic care for: ing excellent health. When the body Vincent O’Keefe Margaret Nagel Kim Paras Kristine Pagsuyoin Athletes is in an alkaline state, it is better able Heather Ramsey Aimee Smith Seniors both to absorb nutrients and to expel Casey Ryan Eric Smith Karen Schwartz Heather Ramsey Pediatric toxins more efficiently. Eating Raw and Beth Voicik Gary Rice Living Foods is like taking an internal Joshua Rothhaas Everyone! Webmasters shower helping to internally cleanse Joan Rubenking • Nutritional Education Dan Ott Stephanie Toole and deodorize your body. Many peo- Jim DeVito Adam Tully • Weight Loss Programs D.L. Meckes ple who are eating more raw and living Mary Varano • Nutritional Products Photography Rosemary Wagner foods state that they experience better Ivor Karabatkovic Check Out our new website & the energy and mental clarity as well. Becky Flaugher arrival of our BioMeridian machine! Come to this workshop and Jacob Ott The Lakewood Tyler Wick Saturday 11:00-2:30 Observer is powered Dr. Michael Russell start to live a healthier life this holi- by: alaBrunch carte menu Sunday 9:30-2:30 18624 Detroit Ave. Lakewood day season. For more information Production Buy one · Get one Free (two doors down from Around the Corner) please contact Westside Yoga Studio Brian Simko Mondays Black Angus Burgers! 216-221-1788 email [email protected], phone 440 The views and opinions expressed in this 18616-20 Detroit, Lakewood 216-521-4413 773-1605 check website, www.west- publication do not necessarily reflect the www.atccafe.com www.russellchiro.net sideyogastudio.com views and opinions of the publisher and staff.
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com November 11, 2008 The Lakewood Observer Page
Moving, Feeling and Dreaming Is Your Life Expanding Neurological Care Is Our Life’s Work
Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute at Lakewood Hospital
Part of Ohio’s #1 Neurology and Neurosurgery Program*
You’ll find the advanced neurological treatments, technologies • Neurology and expertise of the Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute at • Neurosurgery Lakewood Hospital. We are the only hospital on the West Side • Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases to be part of Cleveland Clinic’s leading neurological program, • Adult and Pediatric Epilepsy making it even easier for you to access specialists who treat • Multiple Sclerosis the most complex neurological conditions. • Headache
For an appointment, please call 216.529.7110.
lakewoodhospital.org/neuro
*Ranked by U.S.News & World Report, 2008.
7115-LAKE-11.indd 1 11/10/08 2:36:13 PM Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Approval ok wc/? Date Materials JOB NUMBER Client: Lakewood Hospital Prepared by: Laser Division: Lakewood Hospital Designer 7115-LAKE-11 PDF Project: Neurological Inst. Print Comp 1370 West 6th Street, 3rd Floor Proofreader PUBLICATION Bleed: n/a Image Approved Trim: 9.5" x 15.25" Cleveland, Ohio 44113 AD Lakewood Observer 216.574.9100 Live: n/a CD Line Screen: 85 INSERTION DATE Color: CMYK AE Image: Low Res____ Hi Res__X__ FINAL 11.10.08 APPROVAL Page The Lakewood Observer November 11, 2008
Lakewood City News Lakewood’s New Housing Initiative continued from page 1 The following is a summary of the 2008 Lakewood Housing Initiative: Investment To encourage investment in our neighborhoods, the City will increase funds reserved for acquiring, renovating or raising strategic properties, leverage other government dollars for housing, partner with residents and local financial institu- tions to reduce the cost of investing capital into our housing stock, and increase the capacity of local non-profits dedicated to improving housing. Lakewood property owners will be offered the following: • The FitzGerald Administration recently negotiated a tentative agreement with First Federal Lakewood, the terms of which include offering home equity loans, home equity lines of credit, and rehabilitation loans for Lakewood proper- ties at rates below that offered in other communities and by other lenders, despite Improve Inter-Departmental Coordination today’s nation-wide credit and liquidity crunch. Coordination will be improved between the departments—Building, Fire, • A variety of City housing loans and grants will be made available to improve Water, Refuse, Public Works, etc—to share information and coordinate our properties. Call the Lakewood Division of Community Development at 529-HOME efforts and resources. Our IS department is developing a comprehensive, universal to learn more about these programs and others: database on all properties in Lakewood, so the information is shared across depart- 1. Operation Paintbrush – Free exterior paint to low-income property owners. ments. 2. Lead Safe Grant—Grants up to $10,000 for low income residents or proper- Coordination will extend to include the Courts so that cases brought to the ties in low-income areas, including rental properties. Court are strong. 3. Various low interest loans—loans available at 3% for repairs, improvements and efficiency enhancements. Rental properties included. Legislative and Policy Changes 4. Doubles Conversion Program- $50,000 loans to convert doubles to single The current violation system includes a number of waiting periods and warn- family owner-occupied homes. ing letters, even for repeat offenders. A new policy will be set where a violation is Partnerships for Foreclosure Prevention given at the outset, which can be waived when there is compliance before the first With escalating foreclosures, the city must leverage our foreclosure assistance administrative hearing. This will dramatically cut the time it takes to enforce our resources. United Way’s 211/First Call for Help provides free counseling for those building code. facing foreclosure. OHFA offers alternative financing for moderate to low income The penalties for repeat offenders will be increased, and strictly enforced. individuals who cannot afford their current mortgages. The Ohio Home Rescue Fund can provide assistance to moderate to low income residents in the form of The city has been slow to use the tool of condemnation in response to dilapi- a deferred second mortgage. The emergency Mortgage Assistance Program pro- dated structures. This proposal includes an expanded use of this proceeding, in vides one-time help for moderate to low income residents who can demonstrate order to demolish or force renovation of properties. that upon completion they will continue to be able to make payments. Point of sale inspection. Currently, Lakewood only has point of sale inspection Acquisition and disposition of strategic properties for rental properties that are not owner-occupied. We are proposing that the city The City is also seeking, for the first time, to acquire properties for the purpose institute internal and external point of sale inspections for all rental units, as well of rehabilitation or demolition. Where the market has failed a property, the City will as an exterior point of sale inspection for single family homes. City Council is cur- intervene and either demolish or rehabilitate a property. The city recently purchased a rently evaluating options for point of sale legislation. notoriously dilapidated property on Riverside Avenue, and quickly sold the property, with a profit going to this same fund. The sale included deed restrictions requiring Landlord Responsibility the purchaser to swiftly abate any building violations and reside in the home within The city must expand the prosecution of properties which have become a nui- one year. Significant improvements to the property have already been made. CDBG sance. The nuisance ordinances are currently being re-written, but additional actions funding and other resources will enable us to expand this effort. Importantly, we can be taken through the fire department and other avenues. Repeated service calls have already passed legislation allowing the City to acquire properties faster. to properties must result in financial consequences for owners and tenants. Historic Preservation Program to protect and improve property values Mayor’s Nuisance Property Hearings. As a part of our new nuisance law Set to go into effect in 2009, the City recently passed legislation that will pro- enforcement, Mayor FitzGerald will hold monthly Nuisance Property Hearings, tect the character of historically significant homes and provide another mechanism to help identify potential problem properties, and hear from affected owners and to attract investment from outside Lakewood. residents, prior to the institution of criminal prosecution. Tax abatement for home renovation This initiative requires more of landlords before they are certified for the year. The City is considering expanded use of 100% tax abatement on the improved Currently, each rental property owner must pay an annual certificate of occupancy value of homes after they are renovated. The abatement would be limited to fee per unit. With a revised fee schedule, the city will contract for tenant screening Lakewood residents. services, which will include credit and criminal background checks. Landlords will be required to notify the city whenever a new resident occupies a unit. Lakewood Group purchasing programs for home owners residents will be eligible for a reduced fee for these services. The City will extend the government and bulk discounts that Lakewood receives for costly products including concrete repair/replacement and trees. Broadened Enforcement through Partnerships Enforcement Block clubs are an under-utilized resource when it comes to housing enforce- As part of a major enforcement effort, the City of Lakewood is overhauling ment. Involved neighbors are likely to be the first to be aware of properties which both its bureaucratic response to building code violations, as well as a wide array of are being neglected. By integrating housing issues into their mission will greatly statutory changes regarding repeat offenders, point of sale legislation, and nuisance improve the ability to respond quickly. properties. Underlying all of these enforcement efforts will be a stronger partner- LakewoodAlive has added housing issues to their focus, and will be working ship with neighborhood-based organizations. with neighborhoods to identify violations and use community input and education to abate these nuisances before turning them over to the City Building Depart- Proposed changes include: ment. CDBG funds were recently allocated to LakewoodAlive specifically for this Realigning the Building Department new program. The building department is currently divided into Commercial and Residential This is an ambitious agenda, but the city’s departments are hard at work to divisions. Employees will be designated to be specifically responsible for rental units, implement most, if not all, of these new polices as soon as possible. City council including an increased focus on ensuring that CMHA properties are in compliance has begun its deliberation of those elements which require their approval, and it is with the standards required under the Housing Choice Voucher program. anticipated that the Housing Committee, and eventually the entire City Council, Currently, approximately 50% of an inspectors time is spent doing paperwork; will help fine-tune this housing strategy. greater use of technology will dramatically improve productivity. Automation of “This strategy is the end result of a collaborative effort by Lakewood citizens the violation process has already begun. Money will be reserved in the capital bud- working closely with our city departments. We are determined to do everything get for the purchase of additional technology which will create a more paperless possible, even in the midst of difficult times, to preserve our housing stock for the system of code enforcement. next generation of Lakewood residents,” stated Mayor FitzGerald.
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com November 11, 2008 The Lakewood Observer Page
Lakewood Public Library Friends Of The Lakewood Public Library Celebrate Generous Donations With Upcoming Book Sale by Joan Rubenking much book business now being done on service desk. The gift of public dona- gram Guide, simply stop in at the Main The Friends of the Lakewood Pub- the internet. This leaves a broader field of tions to the book sales also benefits the or Madison Branch and pick one up. lic Library, a volunteer organization that choices on the Friends’ shelves open to the community at large. Proceeds from the There are programs to match practi- first formed in 1980, want to thank their discerning members of the public. book sales allow the Friends to sponsor cally everyone’s tastes in entertainment many donors and let everyone know that The Lakewood Public Library takes numerous free programs to the public. and information. For all those who have they are gearing up for yet another sale donations each and every day it is open In fact, over the years, the Friends have donated so generously, and to those who to the public in November. I recently for business. Both branches have a col- become the primary supporters of all the come and enjoy the variety of program had the pleasure of sitting down with the lection area, and whether the donation Library programs advertised in the Pro- offerings, the Friends of Lakewood Pub- Friends’ President of fifteen years, Paul is a handful or a trunkload, feel free gram Guides mailed to each Lakewood lic Library thank you. We’ll see you at Dimmick, for an update on the newest to ask for assistance at the customer home. If you don’t have the latest Pro- the November sale! Friends’ events and plans. The Friends preview sale will be on November 20th, and the ½ off, $3.00 bag sale for the pub- lic will be on November 22nd. Job Hunting In The New Millennium If you haven’t attended the Friends’ by Amy Kloss through the internet. Sites such as credentials listed in a data bank of pos- book sales in the past, you are in for a LinkedIn and Facebook allow both sible employees. Any resume with too pleasant experience. Downstairs in the What does it take to find a job in employers and job seekers to connect many columns, bullets or undistin- Main Library, there is a new, spacious 2008? Good contacts, up-to-date skills, through mutual business contacts. In guishable fonts may be difficult to scan sorting facility. Under the much better flawless resume, excellent interviewing other words, old-fashioned networking and end up in the circular file as too lighting, you can peruse row upon row of techniques – those are the things that has now gone digital. much of a hassle for the employer. organized books. When patrons come to haven’t changed for decades. Not only are classified ads now on- Anyone interested in a preview the sales, maps with subject locators are What has changed? Most job line, requirements for resumes have of information covered in the Job handily available. Not only are the Friends hunters will now be required to use also changed. No longer is the elegant Hunting Workshop can go to http:// able to offer this larger and brighter space, the internet for job applications and resume full of bulleted lists printed on www.lkwdpl.org/classes/jobhunt. but they also have more to offer, thanks to contacting employers. Even job seek- cream-colored paper the only one you htm. There you will find links to an increase in the volume of donations, an ers who have never used a computer need. Now a plain, graphically boring current articles on the subject of influx of books in better condition and of personally or professionally find that version of your resume is also necessary job hunting, a resume guide and a more recent dates, and the ability to once computer skills are necessary to secure for e-mailing and scanning purposes. list of job-hunting resources. The again offer magazine sales, which wasn’t a position. When a company tells you, “We’ll keep next Job Hunting Workshop will possible in the limited Omni location. Luckily, the Lakewood Public your resume on file,” they don’t mean be held November 20 at the Main Where once 99% of book sale materials Library is here to help. In addition to they’ll file your paper resume in a cabi- Library, 15425 Detroit Avenue in were Library discards, thanks to a gener- basic classes in word processing and net. What they do mean is that they Lakewood. Registration is required; ous public, the Friends’ materials are now internet usage, the library also offers will scan your resume and keep your call 216-226-8275, ext. 127. at least 40% public donations. All of the monthly Job Hunting Workshops. Held Friends’ members are volunteers, and all the third Thursday of every month are determined to keep good books from from 10 a.m. to noon in the Main West End Tavern presents: going into the trash. The volunteers, as Library’s Learning Lab, these work- NEW!!! Mondays Paul Dimmick simply puts it, do it because shops will help job seekers get hooked Fresh PEI Mussels “this is a joy to do.” It is a “green” organi- up with an e-mail account, prepare an $2.00/dozen zation, promoting the recycling and resale internet-friendly resume, and find out Your choice from our Wine list of reading enjoyment. the latest trends in job-hunting on the $3.00/glass Have you recently discovered a web. “NOW SHOWING” Tuesdays popular author? Perhaps the book sale Internet job hunting is much more Wednesdays & Sundays Burgers ‘n Beer contains earlier titles by that author, or than just clicking through jobs listed 5-CLOSE Our $7.95 Gourmet Burger and fries even newer books to add to your collec- on Monster.com. In fact, many experts $2.00 “You Choose” $3.00 OFF tion. Occasionally, real ‘prizes’ become now warn job seekers to limit their All Draft • Import • Domestic Beer Large Draft Beer available, when donations include entire time trolling the large sites such as Jack Daniels • Stoli’s • Captain Morgan $2.00 sets by particular authors. At any given Monster, Career Builder and Hot Jobs! Washington Apples • Grape/Cherry Bombs 16 oz. PBR ’ColdCans sale, one may discover encyclopedias and/ The extraordinary volume of listings $1.50 or how-to manuals on various subjects. A on those sites can bog down even the Saturday Brunch 11:00 am practice that once annoyed patrons, the most intrepid of job hunters. Sunday 10:00 am 18514 Detroit Avenue, Lakewood, OH 44107 snapping up of books by dealers for resale, Social networking is the latest featuring Mega Mimosas phone: 216-521-7684 fax: 216-521-9518 has largely been eliminated due to so trend for those seeking employment Lakewood Historical Society Mayor Edward FitzGerald cordially invites you Wreath And Calendar Sale To the Mayor’s Charity Ball at the Beck Center by Rhonda Loje The Lakewood Historical Society and show your support for our out- Saturday, November 15th, 2008 is now accepting orders for our very standing Lakewood Historical Society popular wreath sale. The wreath and by displaying our beautiful wreath. Beck Center for the Arts calendar sale is one of the largest and The 2009 Calendar commemo- 17801 Detroit Avenue most important fundraisers for the rates the rich automobile heritage Lakewood Historical Society. Wreaths of Lakewood. It features over forty 7:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. are $30 each and calendars are $10.00. historic photographs and images Black tie optional You can order them online at www. of the Templar, Winton, Gaeth and Hors d’oeuvres from lakewoodhistorymuseumstore.com or Baker automobiles, the men behind Lakewood’s finest restaurants by calling 216 221-7343. The order dead- the companies and their homes in Open Bar and Live Music line for wreaths is November 17, 2008. Lakewood. Again, the cost is just Presentation of the Key to Lakewood to Charles Geiger 2008 is the twenty-third year of $10.00! Celebrate the rich history our popular wreath sale. Over the of our community every day of the Proceeds will support the quality education and theater programs which ben- years, the wreath sale has enabled the year! Quantities are limited. 2009 efit our community. Suggested donation is $75 in advance / $100 at the door. For more information, please contact Holly Lauch at programs and community services of Calendars are available for purchase the Lakewood Historical Society to through mail order, online at www. [email protected] continue. Celebrate the holiday season lakewoodhistorymuseumstore.com
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page The Lakewood Observer November 11, 2008
Lakewood Public Library Events
SUNDAY WITH THE FRIENDS: nology Center and ask the staff to set you up on our Mouse Training Program. It’s Songs of Ohio’s Pioneer Era fun, easy and essential to becoming computer literate. You must have a Lakewood Roving musicians Kathy and Gus Ubaldi sing songs of unsettled Ohio. Travel Public Library card in good standing the day of the class. No exceptions. back in time with guitar and banjo to hear the music brought here by the first pio- WEB SEARCHING BASICS neers. Sunday, November 16 at 2:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium Find what you’re looking for on the Internet with strategies for speed and pre- cision. November 15 at 3:00 p.m. in the Main Library Learning Lab LAKEWOOD HISTORICAL SOCIETY: E-MAIL BASICS Why Preservation? It’s not too late to join the e-mail revolution. Keep in touch with friends and What is it about neighborhoods and downtown areas that interest us archi- family. Saturday, November 22 at 11:00 a.m. in the Main Library Learning Lab tecturally and provide a sense of place? Join Sara Hobbs, Associate Director at the JOB HUNTING WORKSHOP Cleveland Restoration Society, as she delivers an entertaining and enlightening Put the resources of the Learning Lab to work in the search for your next job. presentation about why preservation is important in the places we live. The talk Every week, an instructor will be there for how-to lessons and hands-on problem will demonstrate how easy it is for homes to become the victims of their owner’s solving. There will also be plenty of time to work on your resume, submit applica- good intentions as well as champion the best practices in residential rehabilitation tions and look for jobs online. Thursday, November 20 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 today. Thursday, November 13 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium p.m. in the Main Library Learning Lab
THE WRITTEN WORD CHILDRENS & YOUTH SERVICES KNIT & LIT BOOK CLUB THE ZONE: For students in kindergarten through fifth grade Here’s a new kind of book club for both the knit-a-holic and the incurable biblio- Get in the Zone and sign up for a week of themed activities! Visit www.lake- phile. Lynda Tuennerman will get us started with the first book selection. After that, woodpubliclibrary.com/youth for the list of fun and exciting programs just for meetings will grow organically like a long, long scarf as members make suggestions kids. To register, please stop in; call Main Library at (216) 226-8275, ext. 140 or for books and needlework projects. We’ll keep our hands and minds busy on the Madison Branch (216) 228-7428. third Tuesday of every month, sharing literary insights and personal projects. Visit November 10-12: Create a Card www.lkwdpl.org/bookclubs to learn more. To register, please call (216) 226-8275 ext. November 17-20: Simple Scrapbooking 127. Tuesday, November 18 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Meeting Room HOMEWORK ER: For students in kindergarten through eighth grade BUSINESS BOOK TALK WITH TIM ZAUN AND FRIENDS Tuesday, September 2, 2008 - Thursday, May 21, 2009 Who’s Your City? How the Creative Economy Is Making Where to Live the Need a little help with your homework or just want a cool place to work? Most Important Decision of Your Life by Richard Florida Come to the new Homework Room in the Children’s and Youth Services Depart- The Creative Class guru makes a strong case for place being important to our ment at Main Library for help and resources. Children’s and Youth Services twenty-first century well-being. Department at Main Library Sponsored by: Phoenix Coffee, and the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit http://www.timzaun.com or go to www.lkwdpl.org/book- CREATION STATION: For students in kindergarten through fifth grade clubs. Thursday, November 20 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Meeting Fridays, September 5 – May 22 at 4:00 p.m. Room Join us for crafts each and every Friday after school. There is no need to regis- ter; however, to schedule groups, please call Main Library (216) 226-8275, ext. 140 FIVE STAR FILMS or Madison Branch (216) 228-7428. Children’s and Youth Services Department at The Legend of 1900 (1999-Italy) Directed by Giuseppe Tornatore Rated R Main Library and Madison Branch Starring: Tim Roth, Bill Nunn, Clarence Williams III The absorbing story of a man born and abandoned aboard a cruise ship on CLUB LIFE: For students sixth through eighth grade January 1, 1900. Years later his dazzling talent on the piano brings fame, although Thursdays, September 11 – May 21 at 4:00 p.m. he’s never set foot on shore. One day, he tries to leave in hopes of making a life on Make a difference and join the club. Learn new skills or hone those you already land. Roth delivers a superb portrayal of an enigmatic genius. Marvelous musical have as you participate in projects designed to help your community. For more score. Saturday, November 15 at 6:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium information, visit www.lakewoodpubliclibrary.com/youth. To register, please stop in or call (216) 226-8275, ext. 140. Main Library Multipurpose Room LEARNING LAB CLASSES AT THE MAIN LIBRARY Reservations for computer instruction classes begin the first of each month. To FAMILY MUSIC & MORE: For the whole family register, please stop in or call (216) 226-8275, ext. 127. We ask that all students come Spend a Saturday evening at the Library and enjoy programs featuring musi- to class with a working knowledge of the mouse. If you need help, visit the Tech- cians and other talented performers. Performers are subject to change. Seating is limited. Doors open fifteen minutes prior to the performance. Saturday, November 22 is Family Movie Night: The Aristocats Meet the cats who know where it is at…for fun, music and adventure in this 1970 Disney animated classic movie. Main Library Multipurpose Room at 7:00 p.m.
FAMILY WEEKEND WONDERS Make the Library a part of your family weekend time with programs featuring stories, activities, music and crafts. Our staff will provide materials and ideas for families wishing to continue reading and storytelling at home. The programs are free and there is no need to register in advance. Main Library: Friday: 10:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m. Saturday: 10:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:00p.m. Sunday: 2:00 p.m.
Madison Branch: Friday 10:30 a.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m., Sunday 3:00 p.m. November 14, 15, 16: After Dark November 21, 22, 23: Hats Off to You November 24-25: Seasonal Centerpieces
THE FRIENDS BOOK SALES LAKEWOOD KIWANIS Join the Friends and receive entrance to a special, members-only preview sale. 87 YEARS SERVING LAKEWOOD AND IT’S CHILDREN Memberships may be purchased at the door or by returning the form in our Fall/ “Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing Winter Program Guide. Thursday, November 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the world one child and one community at a time” the Friends Book Sale Area located on the lower level at Main Library Help serve our community by joining NOVEMBER BAG & ½ PRICE SALE Lakewood Kiwanis. BARGAIN BOOKS $3.00 A BAG AND ALL ITEMS ARE 1/2 PRICE Contact us for more information: lakewood_ Saturday, November 22 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Friends Book Sale [email protected] http://www.lkwdpl.org/kiwanis/index.html Area located on the lower level at Main Library
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com November 11, 2008 The Lakewood Observer Page
Lakewood Public Library All About The PC Reservation System by Joshua Rothhaas All that is needed is a library card of word processing, image editing, and allows for two sessions per day, poten- If at any point in the foreseeable number and the PIN number, both of the Internet are just a few clicks and a tially totaling two hours of computer future utilizing one of the library’s 66 which are easy to obtain. If someone little bit of typing away. Simply find the use per person. (60 at the Main Branch, 6 at Madison) doesn’t have an account with Lakewood technology center on the second floor The last thing to touch on would brand new free to use computers seems Public Library, obtaining one is as sim- (in the Southwest corner of the build- be printing. After your print job has like a good idea, then coming into con- ple as bringing a government issued ing in the main building), approach been chosen, there will be a prompt tact with the PC Reservation System is photo ID and official proof of a current any unoccupied computer, click the to accept the cost of 10 cents per page. inevitable. address (which could be the ID itself), word “Available” and type in the There is no actual charge for print- For those used to the old sign spending just a few moments with the library card number and PIN. Remem- ing so just click “OK.” This needs to in sheet system, the change may be talented library staff, and presto, one ber, when typing in your library card be clarified because the PCRS denotes potentially frustrating at first, but the has a shiny new library card and PIN number, include the letters but not the page count in monetary values where learning curve is tiny and certainly number. If you already have an account spaces and be on the lookout for non- ten cents equals one page even though worth the effort. The PCRS (PC Reser- with the library but do not know your alphanumeric symbols at the end like no one is being charged for printing. vation System) streamlines the process library card number and/or your PIN, slash (/), dot (.), or the money symbol PCRS sets a limit of 20 pages (two dol- for patrons and staff alike. It is fully the solution is even easier, as any photo ($). After reading and accepting the lars worth) per person per day and automated, allows for the option to sit ID (for example a drivers license or library’s terms of use policy, you are there is no way to increase this limit. at that computer which is preferable school ID) will suffice to make you ready to start your computer session. After OK has been clicked, the next step (instead of the library staff making privy to that information. As with the previous system, is to approach, with a library card, any assignments), and allows for more Armed now with a library card there are time limits. The time of the three printers in the technology accuracy and fairness determining number which is printed on the back limiting aspect is a bit tricky, but ulti- center and scan the library card or type computer assignments when the room of the library card and the associated mately fair. Each time someone logs in the number. From there, click on the is full. PIN, access to resources along the lines in, he or she is allotted 30 minutes. If file name of the item to be released to there is a line for the computers, the the printer (it should turn blue), click user will be automatically signed out print, ‘click pay from account’ even Family Music and More presents: of the session at the end of that time. though there is no actual charge, and Be advised to save work often with a your item will come flying out of the flash drive, or use the last few minutes printer at almost a page per second. Disney’s The Aristocats! to email yourself anything needing to These steps may seem unnecessary to be saved. In the more likely event that some, but they benefit the library and by Adam Tully no one is waiting for the computer, taxpayers by reducing waste and ben- with five minutes to go the system efit our patrons by increasing privacy. Are you ready to watch the fur fly? will automatically offer up an addi- As always, any questions that still Take a trip to Gay Purr-ee with Duch- tional 15 minutes. This will occur may be floating around can be answered ess, Marie, Berlioz and Toulouse. C’est twice, allowing for up to one hour on by one of the library’s technology assis- la vie, what have you got to lose! Enjoy the computer per session. The system tants, we’re happy to assist you. this Disney romp with the whole fam- ily presented by the Family Music and More program at the Lakewood Pub- vocal talents of Eva Gabor, Phil Harris, lic Library. When a wealthy matron and with wonderful singing by Scat- bequeaths her riches to her aristocratic man Crothers, this jazzy feline flick cats, all meows break loose when her will be-bop its way into your lives and Butler decides to cash in! An animal leave you dancing in your seats. The menagerie offers to help the Aristocats Aristocats will be showing on Saturday, get back to where they once belonged November 22nd at the Main Library – and even a fun-loving Thomas Auditorium. The doors will open at O’Malley alley cat offers his assistance 6:45, the program is free, so scat your along the way. Starring the delightful way on down! 16608 Madison Ave. • 216.226.8822
Mon., Wed. 7:00 am - 8:00 pm Sat. 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Tues., Thurs., Fri. 7:00 am - 6:00 pm Sun 10:00 am - 2:00 pm LAKEWOOD OWNED AND OPERATED Dance Classes
Ages 3-Adult Fall Classes Open Now! Call MISS DONNA To Register. Ballet Pointe • • Tap Hip Hop • • Jazz Acro • • Breakdance Ballroom Dance
EAST END WEST END Main Ballroom 216-228-3871 Silhouette Dance “Too” 12501 Madison Ave www.silhouettedance.net 15641 Madison Ave
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page The Lakewood Observer November 11, 2008
Lakewood Cares Are You Up To The Challenge To Become A Great Dad? “West Shore Dads” Is Here To Help! by John Guscott the “5 D’s” - drinking, drugs, depres- sporting events, and outdoor recre- encouraged. Topics of discussion sion, delinquency, and disobedience. ational activities) will include building healthy self- In today’s world, being a great dad The value of an individual relationship • To increase public awareness of esteem in kids, effective and positive is no easy task. Many obstacles - such between an involved father and his son the critical role fathers play in their discipline, instilling healthy values, as a demanding job, divorce, a per- or daughter will not merely help keep child’s development implementing strategies for better ceived lack of parenting skills, lack of kids out of trouble, it will help produce Many local parenting groups tend father-child communication, shar- role models, or not knowing where to The value of an individual relationship between an ing ideas for spending quality time, turn for advice or help - prevent many involved father and his son or daughter will not merely help self-care for fathers, and many other fathers from realizing their fullest par- keep kids out of trouble, it will help produce immeasurable plea- topics. Hands-on demonstrations and enting potential. It doesn’t matter what expert lectures are also planned for kind of dad you are - whether you are sures and joys that are treasured by both father and child. some meetings. Please join us! a separated, divorced, widowed, stay- immeasurable pleasures and joys that to be dominated by moms. While these The first meeting of West Shore at-home, married, or a working dad, are treasured by both father and child. groups are critically important and Dads is on Monday, November 17 at and no matter your race, ethnicity, To help dads surmount the serve many purposes, dads involved 7:00 p.m. in the Lakewood Family sexual-orientation or socio-economic obstacles facing them, West Shore in these groups can often find them- Room (17400 Northwood Avenue). background - all dads face the same Dads was founded to achieve the fol- selves the “odd-man-out.” West Shore There is no cost for admission, and challenges in parenting and becoming lowing goals: Dads is designed specifically with men free refreshments will be provided. a role model for their children. West • To help fathers develop their in mind. While it is a well-known fact Dads of all types are welcome (while Shore Dads is a unique grass-roots sup- parenting skills that many men are uncomfortable with the focus is on dads with kids aged port group created specifically for those • To provide fathers an opportu- reaching out for help, or working in a 0-12, dads of teenagers are also wel- men who want to become the best dads nity for friendship and networking group environment, West Shore Dads come). Subsequent meetings will be that they can be, not only to benefit • To establish a lively venue for urges men to break free from their held on the first and third Monday of their children, but also to improve the fathers to discuss books on parenting, isolation, push their boundaries, and every month, with occasional Satur- quality of their own lives. or to listen to speakers on important attend a meeting. It will be well worth day outings scheduled throughout the Research proves that a father is parenting topics their time to learn from the advice and coming year. West Shore Dads operates just as important in a child’s life as • To help connect separated or experiences of other men who share in collaboration with the Lakewood their mother. This is true for both sons divorced fathers with legal and men- their exact situations, and who also Division of Human Services and the and daughters. Fathers’ rights advo- tal health resources in the Greater deal with the same parenting chal- Department of Early Childhood. Its cate Warren Farrell, author of Father Cleveland area lenges they face from day-to-day. home-base is in Lakewood, but dads and Child Reunion and The Liberated • To organize outings for fathers West Shore Dads seeks to empower from West Park, Fairview Park, Rocky Man, reports that equal dad involve- and/or their children (such as “Dads’ all men with children to become a great River, Westlake and Bay Village are ment means children with fewer of Nights Outs”, visits to local museums, dad! The meetings are conducted in a also encouraged to attend. For more free-form, relaxed atmosphere, and information, call 216-496-5355 or Independent Living At Its Best! sharing of ideas and perspectives is email [email protected]. OPEN HOUSE November 23 NOON-2:00PM •Full daily breakfast included in rent “I Should Have •All-inclusive meal plan available •Secured environment with daily Moved Here Sooner!” monitoring by our nursing staff – Marian Siddall, 1-Year Resident •A wide range of activities and My apartment here is outings with transportation provided large and bright. I am happy •Pet-friendly living at Lakewood Senior Health Campus with good Come and enjoy a Tailgate Party At Lakewood friends who, like me, enjoy complementary lunch or dessert being active enjoy being active. in our new dining room! Senior Health Campus We have so many activities Lakewood Senior Health Campus celebrated their second annual Tailgate Party held and outings to participate in on the grounds of the campus on Oct 14th 2008. Many residents attended our festivities that I have to do my and staff as well. The cookout we had consisted of hamburgers and hotdogs refresh- laundry on Sunday. ments and cookies. Our Campus Administrator Jason Coe grilled the food. Many staff If you need assistance, the assisted with our residents and also helped to plate the food. Fun was had by all!! staff are all kind and caring people. I encourage my friends to come and enjoy living at free live music every Fri & Sat! Lakewood Senior Health 1381 Bunts Road Campus. I should have moved Lakewood Coffee • Art • Beer here sooner! (Campus is on NEcorner of Bunts &Detroit) Phoenix Roasted Coffees
O’Neill Management Lakewood Senior HealthCampus is a 150- Locally owned and managed by the John O’Neill Family, serving seniors in the West Shore area since 1962. Big Microbrews Selection www.jtonm.net bed SkilledNursingFacility, 54-suite Assisted Livingand 60-suite IndependentLiving Bay Village, Ohio North Ridgeville, Ohio Lakewood, Ohio North Olmsted, Ohio Continuumof Care RetirementCommunity. 13321 Madison Ave 216-221-4479 Lakewood Senior Health Campus is a 150-bed Skilled Nursing Facility, 54-suite Assisted Living, and 60-suite Independent Living Continuum of Care Retirement Community. Mon-Thurs 10am-10pm • Fri - Sat 10am - 12am • Closed Sundays
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com November 11, 2008 The Lakewood Observer Page
LakewoodLakewood Health Observer News Lakewood Hospital Opens Lakewood Park Tennis Courts Resurfaced The tennis courts feature a Flex Largest Midwifery Practice Court all-weather, low maintenance tennis surface which is designed with On Cleveland’s West Side complete expansion and contraction to by Anne Kuenzel CNMs, according to Michele Thoman, fit every climate condition. The surface RN, MBA, chief nursing officer at is self draining, fast drying and leaves no Lakewood Hospital Midwifery Lakewood Hospital. “In our fast-paced standing water. You are able to play on the Associates opened its doors in Septem- world, it’s important for women to find surface minutes after it stops raining. ber. Seven certified nurse midwives a healthcare provider who will take the The City was able to obtain this (CNMs), who have a long history at time to truly care for her,” says Thoman. court surface at-cost thanks to Bill Lakewood Hospital, are now in one Additionally, Lakewood Hospi- Dubusker, a Lakewood resident who convenient location at the Lakewood tal Midwifery Associates offers warm sells Flex Court . Bill generously offered Hospital Community Health Center, water immersion for labor and birth. to waive his commission fee to make 1450 Belle Ave, Lakewood. The mid- Water birth is a wonderful labor and this park improvement more afford- wives collectively bring more than 70 delivery option providing the labor- able for the City. Lenny Weiss, another Bill Dubusker walks the new Flex Court years of experience to the practice. ing mom with a sense of calm and Lakewood resident, donated the net surface with Mayor FitzGerlad. Lakewood Hospital has had CNMs on relaxation, freedom of movement and poles for the renovated tennis courts. staff since 1991, when the hospital first decreased perception of pain. re-opened its Birthing Center. Lakewood Hospital Midwifery Lakewood Hospital Birthing Cen- Associates are accepting new patients. ter, which has eight private rooms that For more information or to make an accommodate labor, delivery and post- appointment, call 216-227-2500 or visit partum care, is a perfect setting for lakewoodhosptial.org/midwifery. Neurological Institute Opened continued from page 1 year and offering convenient access to patients requiring neurological care.” The Cleveland Clinic Neurologi- cal Institute at Lakewood Hospital will offer patients access to multiple spe- cialists, undergo procedures and use additional services required for their diagnosis and care all in one, convenient Lisa Petronio, director of Lakewood location. The Institute staff, comprised Hospital Radiology, Holly Bennett, of neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuro- director of Lakewood Hospital Teen radiologists, neuroendovascular and Health Center; Bob Gallagher, supervi- cerebrovascular surgeons, therapists sor of Lakewood Hospital Radiology and specialized nursing staff will pro- vide innovative treatment for a broad Treatment and Research will offer evalu- spectrum of neurological care. ation, follow-up and infusion treatments; “Lakewood Hospital has an Adult and Pediatric Epilepsy Center; excellent reputation for providing Spasticity Clinic, which addresses issues high-quality neurological care,” says related to abnormal muscle tone from Jack Gustin, President of Lakewood brain or spinal cord disorders, multiple Hospital. “The opening of the Institute sclerosis, cerebral palsy, stroke and brain will bring this care to the next level. and spinal cord injuries; Electromyogram Patients will benefit from expert care (EMG) Testing; and TCD/ Carotid Ultra- and enhanced neurological services, sound Testing. closer to their home. I am very proud of “Providing the best patient care in a what Lakewood Hospital has achieved healing and encouraging environment and what the Institute will offer.” is our priority,” says Fred DeGran- The Institute will feature neuro- dis, CEO and president of Cleveland surgery and general neurology services, Clinic regional hospitals. “This new where patients will be able to receive a investment assures patients and their comprehensive evaluation, treatment, pre- families that they will be cared for in a vention and rehabilitation. Additionally, modern facility that allows our expert the Institute will offer Cerebrovascular team of physicians and staff to provide disease testing offering expert diagnosis specialized, one-on-one neurological and medical and surgical treatment for care in a comfortable and convenient all cerebrovascular conditions, such as environment.” stroke and brain aneurysms; a Headache To make an appointment at the Infusion Clinic devoted to intravenous Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute infusions specific for headaches; staff from at Lakewood Hospital,call 216.529.7110. the Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis lakewoodhospital.org/neuro. Holiday Birthday Girls Birthday gals in the months of holidays feel their day gets Lost. Make them feel special with a visit to our salon for a just for them beauty service. Choose a manicure, pedicure, facial, hair style cut color or perm. Call for more info. 216.226.8616 Your Feminine Connection Carabel Beauty Salon & Store 15309 Madison Avenue
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 10 The Lakewood Observer August 22, 2006
Lakewood Campaign Volunteers & The Presidential Election Coverage Hope For Change With A Local Movement
by Dan Slife “It takes a movement to get it. This wasn’t just a campaign, this was a move- ment.” That’s April Stoltz, lifelong community activist and member of the Lakewood Democratic Club. Though filled with pride and hope for a new dawn in American leadership, Stoltz remains cautious. “The movement has to con- tinue.” Indeed, Stoltz and President Elect Barak Obama hold a shared belief in the power of community organizing, the power of a people to remake a nation. Obama’s character and charisma have inspired citizens throughout the nation to come together in the creative act of community building. In this, Obama has perhaps set the fundamental precedent photo by Jacob Ott that could lead to his success in office: the re-engagement of the American citizen in the work of rebuilding a nation. As Stoltz sees it,”[Obama] has a critical mass to do what he wants to do. Not only does he photos by Ivor Karabatkovic have charisma, he cut his teeth on com- munity organizing.” With a national economy in free rebuild national infrastructure in a New Two days before fall, two seemingly unwinnable wars in Deal for a new generation. He notes the the election Barack the Middle East, and leadership scandals importance of understanding deficit Obama’s rally in unfolding across all sectors of American spending in terms of the GDP. During Cleveland Ohio on life, it’s hard not to cast wishes for the the early years of the New Deal, deficit Mall C with Bruce “Good ‘ol Days,” warm apple pie, general spending hovered between 4 and 6 per- Springsteen. peace and the spoils of empire. But don’t cent, an amount not large enough to lift give up on America just yet, calls Obama the nation out of the Great Depression. and community activists throughout the With the onset of WWII, this figure sky- on leadership roles nation, and indeed, the world. rocketed to 30 percent. “We are not in before Barak Obama Few disagree that our nation now another Great Depression and we don’t was even a house- faces monumental challenges. According need a recovery program on the scale of hold name, let alone to economist and social commentator WWII. But we do need increased defi- a serious presiden- Robert Kuttner, the financial collapse cits,” writes Kuttner. tial contender. From signals a “Teachable Moment” with Though incremental, such a national the Lakewood Dem- accumulated political capital for a re-reg- shift from a destructive market cycle ocratic Club, the Lakewood Observer, of like a player who plums a string, we all ulation of markets, trade and industry. driven by growing financial distress and LEAF, LIA, MAMA, to city council and experience the humming in ourselves.” In his book Obama’s Challenge: An institutional corruption to an honest city hall, younger generations of active Either Obama is playing us like a Economic Crisis and the Power of a Trans- engagement with the dynamism of mar- Lakewood citizens are taking the reins of great chorus of fiddles, or we’re participat- formative Presidency, Kuttner notes that kets and a plan for their constructive, community leadership. ing in an energetic exchange that might there are “large economic policy areas creative, and nation building use amounts “Obama and this election coincide inspire a rebirth of the United States. If crying out for dramatic changes… in the to nothing less than an historic transition with a change that empowers regular Lakewood is any indication of that direc- realms of regulation, trade, labor, and from an old order to something new. But citizens to own a piece of their country tion, the hope seems real and grounded global energy and environment policy… the new order, should it come to fruition, and their community,” notes Tom Bull- in the lived experience of many a cam- President Obama will need to break with is at this point just a dream, an ideal. As ock, Lakewood’s youngest elected official paign worker and community activist. the bipartisan conventions of extreme Stoltz and Obama warn, the public must and president of the Lakewood Demo- continued on page 16 financial deregulation, which led to the demand, and in fact command, this new cratic Club. “In the old days only people subprime crisis, the credit crunch, the direction. And it’s not yet clear if our new seeking patronage jobs got involved. Or slide in housing values, and the weaken- president will orient himself toward the perhaps your boss told you that you had ing of bank balance sheets…” more radical cries for a new New Deal. to spend a day at pole.” Kuttner argues that despite an esca- Only time will tell. Election 2008 marks an historic lating national debt built of widening But in Lakewood, it is clear that the transition from that patronage tinted budget deficits, Obama’s administra- next generation of American leadership grassroots tribalism to a more expansive tion should increase deficit spending to has heard the call, many having taken arena of popular activism, firmly rooted in the local. “With Obama, thousands of people spent their free time… they jumped in and said ‘we’re taking this back.’ What’s new is the level and degree of their organization.” Bullock notes that the internet and new tools “made it possi- ble for Obama to get donations from over 3 million small donors efficiently.” This changes everything. For Bullock, the Obama victory signals something deeper, an interior experience not unlike listening to a heart moving song. Deep within the hearts of all Americans, there’s a yearning for a photo by Ivor Karabatkovic better day, towards hope, change and a new community standard of decency. Volunteer Julianne Davis with Holly- Lakewood Democrats celebrate at Sullivan’s Irish Pub when Barack Obama is announced “When Obama touches on this in his ora- wood star Scarlett Johansson at Obama’s as the winner of the election. tory, he’s evoking it in all of us. It’s kind Lakewood Headquarters.
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com August 22, 2006 The Lakewood Observer Page 11
Lakewood Campaign Volunteers & The Presidential Election Coverage Confessions of a Rally Go-er by Thealexa Becker rally was a little more exciting than a com- Lackluster. pulsory High School Pep Rally, and it had That is the one word that could nothing to do with the candidate, who did accurately describe the Palin “Road to what each of the other three candidates Victory” rally on Monday. did on the day before the election. Attending the rally as press, and The blame lies in several places, and therefore unaffiliated with either party, ideology aside, the northeast Ohio Repub- I was anticipating something along licans really dropped the ball on this one. the lines of the numerous sound bites It is not uncommon for local candi- readily available on any news feed or dates to stump a little in anticipation of mainstream media coverage. Palin’s ral- the high profile candidate. It is unfor- lies have received so much attention from tunate, however, when those candidates the press in the past for their rowdy con- spend more time pitching for themselves clusions and high energy level that it was than for their party leaders. One of them, not outlandish for me to assume that the Jim Trakas, even continued to promote Lakewood rally, while I hoped it would himself when Observer reporters asked not take on a hateful sentiment, would at why he supported the McCain-Palin least be lively. ticket. photo by Jacob Ott Well, I was wrong. Another candidate, Debbie Sutherland, Despite a higher than anticipated made what I saw as a gaffe when she played Governor Sarah Palin in Lakewood Park the day before the election. crowd after only two days notice, the Palin out a meandering joke comparing herself to Palin. While some might see it as quaint and playing off of the folksyness of both A New Purpose: candidates, I found it disrespectful and far off the mark. Politicians really should not tell jokes. They aren’t good at it, and that is Unity And Cooperation why we have political comedians. But the most disappointing thing by Justine Cooper about the rally was the meager enthusi- In forty-two years of life I have never asm exhibited by Palin’s supporters. Is cried about a Presidential election until this this how people show excitement over week. In fact I cried throughout the entire their chosen candidates? Perhaps as one day after Barack Obama was elected presi- of the speakers mentioned, people hadn’t dent and I haven’t cried from joy since my had their coffee yet. I can’t think of any- children were born. For weeks before the thing in the rally more sad than Mayor election I removed myself from the emo- Jeff Hruby’s attempts to get the crowd tions of this election. Because I realized my riled up by pledging to leave the stage if emotions were too strong, and secondly, they were loud enough. Needless to say, because I was so afraid to get my hopes up. I he was not oft absent from the platform. have been so disheartened and disillusioned Maybe that is why the youth vote by the disintegration of our country. The is so coveted. At least they scream loud United States has stood as a Superpower, the when they want something. land of the freedom of choice, so much choice photo by Tyler Wick And it really says something when that we have bankrupted ourselves, declared the Obama supporters protesting the schools’ report cards differ so much. “Quit were recently drastically cut in Lakewood war on another country that the rest of the Palin rally looked like they could have acting white” is a comment sometimes heard due to finances, but imagine what a cou- world did not agree with, and are falling been more energetic. in an all black school by kids to kids who are ple of hours a month times several people behind in education. Teen pregnancy and Then there were the overused meta- academically excelling. Now they can reply “I could do! If you believe in gay rights then infant mortality are higher here than other phors. am acting Obama”. And the fact that Obama offer to help the homeless gay teens who industrialized nations and many of our own This is Cleveland in early Novem- is half white and half African American could were thrown out into the streets with noth- are without health care. We send our facto- ber. It rains on occasion. Yet the sun help diffuse many race issues as he represents ing. If you support the war, be there for ries to other countries and allow child labor tends to come out everyday. These are the whole country. For all the critics who the veterans, visit them or the children so we can shop at stores like Walmart while not unusual occurrences. To suggest that believe in polarization, the “us against them” of the parents who are fighting in Iraq or looking the other way. Can we not admit our the sun is coming out because either the the “we are superior because of religion, race, who tragically have died there. I knew this country as a whole became spoiled and self- Republicans control the weather or God income, political party, ...” this is a time to cel- election would change our country regard- indulgent, with politicians taking money is smiling on Palin is just silly. ebrate that African American boys and girls less of who won. When my seven year old from big companies and allowing destruc- Equally silly was the selection of have a role model that could change who they daughter went from saying she wanted to tion to the people? While the rich get richer music. Someone really should have vet- become, make some pull up the rebellious be Hannah Montana when she grew up to and the poor get poorer and the middle class ted the DJ. baggy pants and feel proud of who they are, running for president with Hilary, I knew is just surviving - a paycheck away from Trust me, Evanscence, Dave Mat- after years of mixed messages. And isn’t that this election had the power to change our financial disaster - our housing market and thews Band, and Coldplay are NOT, I what we want for our country’s children? To children for the better. But it is up to us to financial markets have crashed like our tow- repeat, not conservative musicians. At rise up in educational status, rise up in unity, be part of the much needed change. Obama ers. The entire world is watching us and were all. In fact, Coldplay’s lead singer Chris rise up in strength and diversity to shine as is only human but the country is filled with watching this election as if it were their own. Martin and Dave Matthews came out the Superpower we can be? willing citizens who can help bring us back It terrified them to see a great country that publicly in support of Obama. And I am not disillusioned enough to think to basic values, caring for our own. When represented everything they wanted for their somehow, talking about not outsourcing one president can change everything, and the towers fell and when Katrina hit, we own self or children or country, self-destruct American jobs and putting America first he shouldn’t have to alone. This is our were all One. Color, age, race, income level and fall far from the pedestal we sat on. and then playing music by a British and country. My hope is that the same people mattered nothing while people raced to help This election, for some, represented the South African songwriter is odd. Unless who came out strong with their emotions each other and stand in Unity. This election first African-American president. For oth- they just assumed that the demographic for their political candidate will take just showed the same love and passion. And ers it represented a shift from greed and that made up the rally probably couldn’t one issue that they supported their can- now, like the clean-up after Katrina and the control of one right wing religion to a hope tell the difference. didate on and fight for that cause! If you Towers, we must continue to do our part. for embracing all races, all religions, and all Overall, I was rather let down. While believe in “pro-life” then take a couple We can no longer sit in armchairs com- income levels. For those who choose to pre- I might not be Republican myself, I can hours a month and help educate teens on plaining about gas prices and yelling about tend that this country is still not very much understand the importance of such a making better choices, or help teen moms what we “believe” in unless we are ready to divided by race, income and power, they need rally to the party. Yet as an observer, I who chose to have their baby and need roll up our sleeves and put our hearts where to visit a school in Strongsville and then visit would never have guessed that the crowd some love and guidance. They are plentiful our mouths are. And the awakening from one in Cleveland. Compare the Smartboards was welcoming the “most popular gover- in Lakewood. Aging and Youth programs this election assures me it is possible. and textbooks and ask yourself why the nor in the United States”
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 12 The Lakewood Observer November 11, 2008
LakewoodLakewood Observer Schools School Visits Underway In Lakewood by Rosemary Wagner respond in a similar manner, but focus on improvements in their respective For at least the last four school areas such as accounting, payroll, cus- years, each Fall, individual Members todial and maintenance, information of the Lakewood Board of Educa- and technology, food services, recre- tion have joined Superintendent Dr. ation, student services, teaching and David Estrop in visiting each and every learning, etc. Superintendent Estrop school and support department within commented that it has been very the Lakewood City School District. At enlightening to observe how the pre- each of these annual visits, the staff at sentations have changed over the course Superintendent Dr. David Estrop meets School Board Member Mrs. Linda Beebe each school has been asked to formally of the last four years. Estrop specifi- with Harrison Elementary School staff participates in the school staff meeting. respond to the following: cally noted that the meetings today are 1. Describe the student academic much more focused on data concern- the various initiatives presented to the tive staff that have produced improved performance results for your school ing student performance results, as Board by members of the administra- results in Lakewood. from last school year. well as assessments and interventions 2. Describe your school’s plans for for improving results. Board President improving student academic perfor- Chas Geiger noted that the visits help West Shore Students Team mance results for this school year. the Board keep a pulse on the District, Support departments are asked to as well as providing greater detail about With The Cleveland Clinic You Can Dress Them Up To Solve Crimes by Rosemary Wagner Jacqueline Smith, instructor for the program, commented, “It was a pow- AND Take Them Out The students in the Health Careers erful method to get the message out by Liz Guscott Technology Program of the West Shore to our young people who are making Career/Technology School head- lifestyle choices that may be harmful At 2:00 p.m. on Halloween, the quartered at Lakewood High School, to their future health.” Smith went on Saints Cyril & Methodius School park- teamed up with the Cleveland Clinic the say that she appreciated having the ing lot was abuzz with haunts of all Office of Civic Education to become opportunity, cooperation and technical grade levels. The third annual “Trunk Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) on capabilities to provide her students with and Treat Extravaganza” was underway Wednesday, October 29th. In this case, this educational resource and felt very as parents, some with little goblins in the “crimes” were committed against fortunate to work in a school system tow, doled treats from their car trunks the human body and consisted of such that provided this 21st Century learning as the costumed students paraded past things as smoking, poor diet, lack tool. The Human body CSI Curriculum to fill their bags. of exercise, etc. Using the new tech- was developed by the Cleveland Clinic’s The event kicked off with the nology capacities at Garfield Middle Office of Civic Education Initiatives and kindergartners through fifth graders School (all of Lakewood’s new schools is aligned with Ohio and national aca- parading around the block and enter- have such capacity), the Health Career demic content standards. ing the Madison Avenue parking lot Technology program participated via The Lakewood City School District entrance. They joined the middle- interactive distance learning (a capac- and the West Shore Career/Techni- school students in the lot to get a head ity similar to remote two-way TV cal School have plans for additional start on their trick or treating. Approx- A student helps a kindergartner fill her bag. broadcasts)over the school district’s distance learning experiences for a imately 175 total students were dressed rated and a few with Halloween sound technology network and conventional variety of academic disciplines and up, excited and well-mannered, as effects or music. Younger siblings and phone lines. programs. Dr. David Estrop, Superin- one parent remarked how they even even a couple pets made the event as Dr. Jeffrey Uchin, a Pathology tendent of Lakewood and West Shore thanked her for apples she handed out, well, making this an affair the whole Resident at the Clinic, guided stu- commented, “This is just one more way which were donated by Nature’s Bin. family could enjoy. dents through the experience posing that the investment made by the citi- Says William Bistak, SS. Cyril & SS. Cyril & Methodius School is question to the students as he dem- zens of Lakewood in their new schools Methodius School Principal, “This a U.S. Department of Education Blue onstrated the harmful effects of the is paying off with more learning oppor- event is a great way to end our first Ribbon School of Excellence and has “crimes” on actual body organs from tunities for the students of Lakewood quarter. The students are thrilled to provided kindergarten through eight actual specimens at the Clinic. Ms. and the West Shore.” show off their costumes and get a head grade children Catholic education for start on the Halloween festivities.” over 100 years. It is located at 1639 The parents got into the spirit as Alameda Avenue in Lakewood. For Lakewood Schools Reaches well, most with their car trunks deco- more information call 216-221-9409. Agreement For State Audit Revelations Salon & Spa by Jim O’Bryan the audit is dependent on the availability Hair • Nails • Skin • Massage • Retail Store La Pita ‘Tis the Season... of key staff members and district staff for Give the gift they’ll never forget! A letter has been received from cooperation, providing information and Frosty’s Meltdown Express Mary Taylor CPA, Auditor of State, to feedback to the team. The $10,900 maxi- One Hour Massage, Aromatherapy Pedicure & Aveda Renewal Facial $113 create a review and independent audit mum cost will be invoiced periodically Rudolph’s Revenge Fine Lebanese Cuisine Spa Manicure Treatment & for a whole group of items including; to the District as hours are accumulated Aveda Renewal Facial $51 & Vegetarian Food staffing levels, collective bargaining by the Auditor of State’s office. The Board Elf’s Day Off ½ Hour Massage, Aveda Renewal Facial & provisions, and leave use in an effort to voted to pay for the audit with funds Manicure $79 ensure efficient and effective services. from the Educational Service Center of Stocking Stuffers One Hour Massage $50 The “Project” will be handled by Cuyahoga County, from an account held ½ Hour Massage $32 Manicure and Paraffin Dip $18 the Auditor of State’s office, which has by the Lakewood City Schools for pur- Aveda Renewal Facial $30 to date completed 205 released audits poses such as this. Chair Massage $15 Look Your Best for the Holidays! resulting in more than 11,000 recom- School Board Vice President and Halo highlight, Haircut & Style $65 past president Ed Favre has been push- Haircut & Style $25 mendations, and more than $1 billion Bouncy, Sexy Permed Curls, With Cut & Style $65 Proudly in potential savings. ing for a school staffing audit from Moisturize and Warm Cold Feet with a Spa Pedicure $46 Serving Lakewood The cost of the “Project” will not the State of Ohio. At last night’s board 15516 Detroit Avenue Lakewood, Ohio 44107 13615 Detroit Ave exceed $10,900 which includes travel, tele- meeting, things were finally put in www.revelationshairsalon.com phones, and other items. Progress during place for that process to being. 216-228-2966 216-221-9925
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com November 11, 2008 The Lakewood Observer Page 13
Lakewood Is Art
Saturday, October 25, Vance Music Studios Student Recital Abby Boland’s vocals rocked, including her sixth original song for the evening called High School Never Ends. Tonight’s Lesson: Rock Out! The evening closed with a treat -- a new band named Bleu Hypoxia. Shane by Barbara Michel & were flying as he performed a drum ing nod from the illustrious Jack White Lang’s drum playing was “off the hook” Ruthie Koenigsmark solo during “Radar Love.” He has been himself. Nuclear Gun Rack’s front-man for entire set. The band’s bass guitar Most students want to learn how to playing drums since the age of four and and newest member, Jackson Jusko, player, Ethan Neauhaus kept the bass rock out, and they want to do it as soon his passion and persistence showed. played guitar and superbly sang six going strong on songs from 96 Quiet as possible. Games like Rock Band and Abby Boland’s stage presence accom- songs, including Give it Away, Creep, Bitter Beings to Cherub Rock. Peter Guitar Hero are testaments to that. But panied with her great voice energized Last Dance with Mary Jane, Godzilla Quigley played complicated pieces on one school is turning that yearning into the crowd. She carried vocals, singing and more. The band’s drummer, Eric lead guitar with ease. Peter also sang a reality for kids ages nine to 18 who are 10 songs, including two originals she Herald impressed the crowd with his the entire set including three original serious about rocking out on stage. created: What is Love and In The End. vocals on Paint it Black while knock- songs he composed: Paralysis, Obliter- “Rock-n-roll is here to stay” A band debuted called The Blue ing out some great rhythms. Jerry ate and Esoteric, each song had thought – at least, that’s what Danny and the Fish, named after a blue beta fish that Koenigsmark laid down some smooth provoking lyrics. When I asked Peter Juniors’ sang in their top 20 hit dur- was in the music studios where they bass lines for the band in his fedora and about the process he uses for creat- ing 1958. Now, 50 years later, it looks had rehearsals. Band members include sang both Helter Skelter and Not Fade ing his music, Peter said he write the like they were right. Keeping ablaze the Riley Johns who played guitar and sang Away by Buddy Holly. Jackson Jusko’s lyrics first sometimes and other times decades-old rock and roll flame, some Brain Stew, Wild Thing and You Really talents were highlighted again when he builds off a riff on the guitar. He local youngsters have wrapped their Got Me. Vinnie Berardi played guitar he performed three Pink Floyd songs said it is really fun to start by building fingers around drumsticks and guitar while Rob Moore kept the beat hopping perfectly, playing acoustic guitar while the framework of the song – “it adds picks at Vance Music Studios, learning on the drums. The entire band was in singing Pigs on the Wing part 1, Brain another dimension” to music for him. the art of rock and roll to the tunes of the groove as they played Bonzo Goes Damage and Pigs on the Wing part 2. Peter may enter a profession involving some of the genre’s greats. On Saturday, to Bitburg by The Ramones. If this band Venus band members entered music one day, but for now he will be October 25, eight bands had the oppor- was nervous it certainly didn’t show as dressed in Greek gowns befitting the entering high school in ’09. tunity to take the stage and rock out to a The Blue Fish did a remarkable job per- rock goddesses they have become. Erin After the performance we caught jam-packed house at the Winchester. forming in public this first time out. King kept the rhythm flowing from the up with Chris Vance, Owner of Vance “From The Ramones to Green Day Rock/Pop ingénue, Abby Boland, in drums throughout their set of 10 songs, Music Studios and he said “I couldn’t to originals,” Owner of Vance Music Stu- her second performance of the evening, starting with I Hate Myself for Lov- be more proud of these kids and this dios, Chris Vance said, “This was the best treated the audience to three of her orig- ing You. Lead guitarist, Bethany Zettler recital. Seeing all their talents improve concert we’ve had to date, mainly because inal songs: Who Am I, I Say No and Her played Back in Black, Californication and and evolve over time is priceless.” So, everyone got a chance to play all of the Light. She shared a strong, personal per- Ziggy Stardust to name a few, like some- “Class Dismissed”… until these new music they prepared for Band2Gether formance with an eager crowd. one who has played much longer than generation rock superstars take to the summer concert series. It was a great way Fabulous Waste of Time has wasted her eight to nine months. Alex Mosco stage again at the next Vance Music to punctuate all of their hard work and no time regrouping from a quartet to sang and played bass guitar, including Studios Recital. Adoring fans will then clear the way for new material.” a trio over the past few months. The setting a powerful bass line in Slide The have another opportunity to see and Little Known Fact started the eve- band added AC/DC as a new format Goo, Perfect Situation and many others. support rock stars in the making. ning off donning sombreros for the and were joined on stage by Tim Lane Spooky Fall Student Showcase, but as to perform TNT, which got the crowd soon as they started playing you knew fired up. Nick Hinchley played lead gui- you were not going to be listening to a tar while singing everything from Seven mariachi band. They immediately took Nation Army to Paranoid. David Flood command of the audience rocking had a fabulous drum solo during Smoke them with their robust sound as they on the Water highlighting his drum- opened with Say it Ain’t So by Weezer, ming skills. Matt Kerrigan held the bass which included one of two rockin’ gui- lines for the entire performance. tar solos featuring Clay Verga. Alberto Nuclear Gun Rack has continued to Rodriguez kept the audience going by grow into one solid band. Every band laying down some great bass lines and member sang at least one song during occasionally shouting out to the crowd. the set. Chazzz Koenigsmark’s guitar The music was propelled forward with playing was tight and his vocals on Mike Young’s beat and his drumsticks Blue Orchid were worthy of an approv- Art Gets Gritty In The City: Group Show And Sale Sunday, November 16th’ by Margaret Nagel setting as “a whole other world” they didn’t know about. Jazz guitar- Remaining upbeat, a group of art- ist and composer Mark Kleinhaut, ists is pushing onward with their show who recently performed at Blos- scheduled for November 16, Sunday, som with the Cleveland Orchestra, 2-6pm, former Lakewood Screw Fac- will treat show goers to an intimate tory, S. W. entrance off Bramley, 2nd performance. Jude Howe, certified floor, Nagel Studio. Russian kettle bells trainer will also Planned as an afternoon for the give fitness demonstrations on the senses, artists will be presenting in latest and hottest fitness tools. porcelain, stoneware, earthenware, oil Featuring artists: e. aberg, b. & acrylic on canvas, and fiber. Work smith, n. spotts, b. vrtunski, l. powers, shown will range from small ceramics, c. weinstein, m.c. nagel, a. brown, with jewelry & fantasy animals up to table Kettle bell demo by Jude Howe and sculptures. Artists are seeking pub- live jazz guitar by Mark Kleinhaut plus lic reaction to recent works, as well an wine & light appetizers opportunity to sell. Place: The Old Lake Erie Screw Exhibitors are shooting for a Factory, SW Entrance, Bramley and high “coolness” factor with live Clarence Ave., Lakewood. music and fitness demonstrations, Contact: Margaret Nagel, artist, wine and appetizers. Attendees will email [email protected], 440- find experiencing art in a factory 333-8308 home, 440-452-6577 cell.
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 14 The Lakewood Observer November 11, 2008
Friends Open Madison Kids Park
Mayor Edward FitzGerald and Councilwoman Mary Louise Madigan tell the young ribbon cutters, “NO running, be careful.”
Last Saturday the City of Lakewood and Friends of Madison Park unveiled the results of dreams and hard work at the official opening of Madison Park’s Kid’s Park. A large turn out welcomed the state-of-the-art playground with everything from bees that fly to motorcycles to ride. The park features comfortable benches for the adults to keep eyes on the children, it was a good thing. As quickly as they tried and climbed on everything, the little ones began to tire out, and looked for their dads to hold them.
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com November 11, 2008 The Lakewood Observer Page 15
Lakewood Observer Financial Crisis! What Happened? What Can We Do? by Carl Baldesare criteria that were required by Fan- trol of the mortgage giants Fannie which both sides have a pretty strong nie Mae and Freddie Mac before they Mae and Freddie Mac, with use of the stance. Currently the estate tax exemp- In response to our current eco- would purchase the loans from the newly created Federal Housing Finance tion is $2 million for 2008, and $3.5 nomic situation, and the number banks. The 30 year fixed rate loan with Agency. This will allow the FHFA to million for 2009. The estate tax is of vacant homes in and around the 20% down, and adequate income to regulate the operations of Fannie Mae repealed for 2010, but in 2011, we’re city, I have decided to forgo my usual support the payments, was known as and Freddie Mac and put the $5 tril- back to $1 million. The current top financial banter and write about the a prime mortgage. When the housing lion dollars worth of mortgages on the estate tax rate is 45%. Sen. McCain has situation that effects all of us and has market began to rise and rates began to backs of U.S. taxpayers. While the two stated that he would prefer an estate raised questions from the people I meet fall, new and more creative loans began are under government control they will tax exemption of $5 million and a on a daily basis and my current clients. to find their way into the traditional take on additional mortgage-backed reduction of the top estate tax to 15%. This may be a little dry but I am going lending institutions and Fannie Mae securities with the hope that this will Sen. Obama is in favor of freezing the to try and reveal some facts of what has and Freddie Mac began to lower their stabilize the housing market through exemption amount at $3.5 million and happened with our economy and some standards to buy these highly profit- 2009. In 2010 the two will begin to the top estate tax at 45%. Make sure certainties for the future. able loans. These loans known as Alt-A reduce their portfolios by 10% per your estate plan is reviewed to ensure Americans are very good at utiliz- loans were big on Wall Street because year until they have just a little more it addresses current laws and maintains ing a concept known as OPM (other they were backed by the value of the than $250 billion respectively. This flexibility for future changes. If you do people’s money). This concept is a home and were very profitable. The action was taken by the government not have an estate plan (no matter your great way to leverage capital to help other loans that began to stream onto because they felt that Fannie Mae and age and marital status) you should create wealth. Americans have been Wall Street were the high credit risk or Freddie Mac’s individual holdings explore your options with a competent using OPM to build enterprises from sub-prime mortgages; these mortgages were too large to fail. professional. nothing and to buy homes and cars had more risk but the high interest rates I am writing this a few hours after I know through my years growing further boosting our economy. With- proved to overshadow the risk and the the House of Representatives voted up in Lakewood and living here now, out this leveraging we would not be giants of Wall Street began to buy these “no” on the $700 billion dollar bailout our city is one that is built on strength, able to build new homes, buy cars like kids in a candy store. Fannie Mae that was proposed. The bill was pro- entrepreneurship and great neighbors. and goods, and keep our closely held and Freddie Mac encouraged high posed to insulate everyday Americans Our closely held businesses will need businesses running. With this credit risk loans made by banks and lending from Wall Street’s greed and bad bets us more than ever so please keep dol- comes responsibility and risk. To take institutions because Fannie Mae and that have helped to fuel this economic lars local by supporting our businesses. this concept a step further, banks have Freddie Mac would buy them and there crisis. I am confident that in the next There are many homes that are vacant, a similar concept that carries with was a false sense that Fannie and Fred- few weeks we will see some form of be a good neighbor and cut that grass at it some sense of insurance against a die were government backed. a bailout. Our country is too vulner- the vacant home next door. Keep your loss, this is known as a credit-default In April of 2005, Allan Greens- able to a crisis and our life’s work eyes peeled for any suspicious activity swap. Full understanding of a credit- pan warned of financial crisis saying, depends on a secure future. This and call the police if you see anything default swap is difficult even to those “We increase the possibility of insol- being an election year, we also have out of the ordinary. We all need to work who know what it is, so here is a short vency and crisis...Without restrictions to consider tax implications from together, on this. When the neighbor- explanation: on the size of (Fannie Mae and Fred- both parties. Special consideration hood is safe and looks great everyone A credit-default swap is a financial die Mac), we put at risk our ability should be noted in proposed changes benefits, homes sell faster and our pride contract between one party and another to preserve safe and sound financial to tax laws across the board. in our city shows. which protects a default on a debt. It markets in the United States.” It is quite possible that under Proper planning and asset provides periodic payments from the This warning from Greenspan either Sen. John McCain or Sen. diversity will play a major role in buyer to the seller in exchange for the speaks of insolvency, or the concept of Barack Obama’s leadership, the capital preserving the wealth that we all right to a payoff if there is a default or being upside down with our debts. In gains tax rate will rise. Sen. Obama is work so hard to attain. It is our credit event in respect of a 3rd party. 2005 a regulatory bill was proposed to on record that he would raise the rate responsibility as Americans to pre- The game on Wall Street is to the Senate. A majority Democratic vote up up to at least 20% (from 15%). Sen. serve the wealth of our country and trade and negotiate these credit- shot down the Republican’s attempt at McCain states that he would keep it the of our families. Please take the time default swaps. Right now there are an a proactive solution. Because that bill same (15%) depending on the taxpay- to review your financial plan. One estimated 62 trillion dollars worth of was blocked the number of loans con- er’s income tax rate. This is important of the first things I teach my clients these outstanding. The worth of these tinued to rise. Sub-prime and Alt-A if you need to reallocate any assets in that not knowing what you do not credit-default swaps have mystified loans generally had an adjustable inter- the next few months because of the know is the worst detriment to your even those who created them in the est rate that was fixed for a period of other changes in our economy: please family’s future. I hope this helps to first place. One of the biggest prob- 2 or 3 years. Our housing boom that consult your tax advisor. clarify some of the questions I know lems with these is that they do not created new loans in 2003 and 2004 left Estate planning is an issue on are on everyone’s mind. really insure anything. thousands of people unable to pay their Example: You go to the bank to mortgage when the rates and payments get a loan for a home you would like to inevitably went up. Americans desper- buy, the bank will evaluate your credit ately tried to refinance their mortgages risk and issue a loan with the agree- only to find out that the same lending ment that you will pay the bank back institutions that gave them the first in a timely manner with a profit (inter- loan were tightening their standards est) for their investors. The agreement and would not give them another loan. will also say that if you don’t pay the This forced thousands into foreclosure. bank back under the terms of the The foreclosures and the large num- agreement, they can sell your asset ber of homes for sale drove the home (home) to attempt to recover any loss. values down, creating the insolvency SAVE Once you agree to the terms, the bank Greenspan had warned us about. The packages your loan up with other sim- credit-default swaps that were created % ilar loans and sells them off to another from mortgages on Wall Street became party, like Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. nearly impossible to sell because the 50 Fannie and Freddie then sell the loans value of the “insurance” (the real For The Entire Year! on Wall Street with the understanding estate) had not only dropped, but the Pay $249 for 12 full months that the investors will have very little income (from housing payments) had (Regularly $545) risk because the loan is collateralized also dropped, thus leading us to where Start now or start your in case of a default. we are today. GET YOUR BODY BACK. Karen Kilbane 12 mos. on Jan. 1 New customers only. Cannot be This game worked very well for How do we get out of this mess? 440 356 0337 combined with other offers. Hurry – many years because there were certain The federal government seized con- [email protected] Good for only the first 10 customers.
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 16 The Lakewood Observer November 11, 2008
Lakewood Observer Hope For Change continued from page 10 conquering a distant enemy went hand in hand. Both demanded an immeasur- “We saw this very thing flower in able degree of sacrifice on the part of a Lakewood. Because Lakewood is a front generation of Americans whom we’ve porch town, a street car community, it come to know as the Greatest Genera- works especially well in Lakewood. You tion, the Heroic Generation. had people who were neighbors but not In The Fourth Turning: An Ameri- friends who were all of a sudden working can Prophecy, What the Cycles of History together in the trenches. They bonded. Tell Us About America’s Next Rendez- They made history. This was a searing rite vous with Destiny, published in 1997, of passage for people who didn’t believe it generational scholars William Strauss was possible. They have committed and and Neil Howe predicted that “Some- photo by Becky Flaugher delivered the goods,” states Bullock, with time around the year 2005, perhaps a Obama canvassers get ready to hit the streets. conviction. That’s transformation. That’s few years before or after, America will Howe suggest that “the catalyst will unfold their adversaries had darkly warned. the antidote to anomie. enter a Fourth Turning.” For Strauss according to a basic Crisis dynamic… This new regime will enthrone itself for President Elect Barak Obama’s and Howe, a Fourth Turning represents An initial spark will trigger a chain reac- the duration of the Crisis. Regardless campaign was powered by nothing less the breakdown and possible failure tion of unyielding responses and further of its ideology, that new leadership will than the most grassroots movement in of an established order, a breakdown emergencies. The core elements of these assert public authority and demand pri- recent history. which results from the erosion of sys- scenarios (debt, civic decay, global dis- vate sacrifice.” “Yes We Can.” The eerily prophetic tems economic, social and cultural. It’s order) will matter more than the details, The hope for change, that deep- chant now echoes across an America the final stage in a recurrent four-fold which the catalyst will juxtapose and con- seated longing for transformation that is torn by crisis. That we’ve been heading generational cycle which can be located nect in some unknowable way.” Four years uniquely American is once again rising in this direction for at least a decade is and tracked throughout the history of before 9/11, before military campaigns in within the nation’s spirit. Hope. Change. now undeniable. According to the New American society since its early settle- the Middle East, and eleven years before Yes We Can. The power of words, when York Times, “2.3 million Americans ment some half a millennium ago. the modern financial crisis, Strauss and spoken with grace and conviction, can have been out of work for six months A Fourth Turning is a time of cri- Howe identify the general direction bring people together and mobilize or more, a level of long term joblessness ses, when doing more of the same is no toward total Crisis and the dynamic fac- action. Lakewood Democrats and Inde- not seen in the early stages of any reces- longer an option, when the challenges tors accelerating that procession. pendent supporters felt that call to duty sion since World War II.” The period of the present can no longer be resolved “Soon after the catalyst, a national and helped to deliver the county and of American history beginning with nor buried by the once reliable systems election will produce a sweeping political state to Obama. In the process a new the Great Depression and ending with of the past. They are eroding. In the best realignment, as one faction or coalition economy is already emerging, one con- the victory in WWII was a dark time of times, the crisis catalyzes action. At capitalizes on a new public demand for cerned more with the accumulation of which imposed great challenges, exter- worst, it christens the fall of a nation. decisive action… The winners will now social capital and healthy relationships nal demands for heroic action, on an With a keen sense of the future have the power to pursue the more potent, than financial capitalization. entire generation of young Americans. grounded in a solid historical under- less incrementalist agenda about which According to sociologist Frank The work of rebuilding a nation and standing of American society, Strauss and they had long dreamed and against which Hearn, social capital is the bedrock upon which all modern democracies must rest. In Moral Order and Social Disorder, Hearn explains that “Dignity… depends less on USPS Safety Corner: Automation the assertion of rights and duties than on mail from left to right and bottom to Over the past few years many com- Secondly, if a letter gets damaged or can- the presence of people who care and are top. It is more important than ever to panies have been using less manpower not be read the letter will be returned. attentive to the needs of others. For the address letter mail accurately, includ- and more automation. The main reason #2 Make sure to write legibly and moral person, the coherence of the social ing a return address. If the letter is not given is cutting costs. The Post Office is try not to crowd numbers. world rests on the fulfillment of respon- addressed properly, the computer could no different. Currently at least 70% of #3 Lasts names on mail are critical. sibilities bestowed by relationships, not redirect the letter to the wrong station all letter mail is computer generated. Carriers do not always know peoples’ on adherence to abstract principles; or possibly the wrong route, causing a Within the next few years, magazines first names. This is also a problem if the and morality requires the development delay in delivery. Here is a list of ways to and other mail pieces will be processed addressee has moved. The carrier can- of those qualities that sensitize people prevent the computer from misreading the same way, leaving very little mail not forward the mail if they do not have to, and encourage them to meet, these your letters and preventing any delays. for the carrier to sort in the mornings. a last name. This is very important in responsibilities, not the development of #1 Write a standard heading with This can be both beneficial and det- addressing apartment mail. Boxes are cognitive complexity.” the return address in the upper left hand rimental. This is beneficial because a labled by last names only so it is impera- In his penetrating analysis of the corner. Return addresses are essential greater number of mail pieces can be tive that last names be put on the mail philosophical dilemma underpinning for two reasons. First, if the person the processed in a shorter period of time, along with apartment #’s. Forwardable symptomatic civic dysfunction in the letter is being sent to has moved and saving costs. However, it is is detrimen- mail is handled by last name only. United States Hearn repositions the their change of address is past a year, tal because mistakes cannot be caught #4 If you receive a piece of mail that questions of Moral Order and Social the letter will be returned to the sender, and corrected since it is not being han- does not belong to you, please do not Disorder well beyond the right-left but if there is no return address the let- dled by clerks or carriers. write on the mail. If you write on the paradigm. In doing so, he moves the ter could end up in the dead letter office. The computers scan each piece of mail the computer can no longer read abstract, and indeed cold world of tradi- the piece of mail because the writing is tional political philosophy and strategy not recognized as part of the address. back into the realm of the heart. It is The best thing to do is just leave the here where once anonymous neighbors misdelivered piece of mail sticking out bond in the trenches of nation building, of your box for pick up. where a presidential hopeful can appeal You may be wondering what the to our higher angels, and where we will “Dead Letter Office” is. This is an always return for renewal, personal and office in another state where all mailed civic. It’s the personal heart, the hearth pieces get sent to when they cannot be of the home, and the intangible center returned for lack of a return address. of all healthy communities. We cannot stop automation from According to president elect Barak taking over, but we can prevent mail Obama, “It’s the answer that led those from being delayed and returned by who have been told for so long by so simply sticking to the basics when many to be cynical, and fearful, and addressing an envelope. For more doubtful of what we can achieve to put information addressing letters, visit their hands on the arc of history and our website at USPS.com. bend it once more toward the hope of Have a safe day! a better day.” Let us begin this work Your Lakewood Safety Committee today, right here in Lakewood, Ohio.
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com November 11, 2008 The Lakewood Observer Page 17
LakewoodPulse Of The Families City How A Single Dad Chaged The Lives Of Two Teenagers Through Adoption by Stephanie Toole and fun. Tony was enrolled in the 8th grade at Garfield Middle School where, How would you describe a person with continued weekly counseling and who, through adoption, has changed excellent communication between the lives of not just one, but two young school and home, he began to adapt to men? What would possess a single 38- his new life in Lakewood. Tony’s adop- year-old middle school science teacher tion was made final on July 24, 2008. to embark on an emotional journey to In August, Kevin and I and our seven fatherhood and family life? children attended our first ever adop- I first met Drew Goddard in Sep- tion party at Lakewood Park. Getting tember 2007 in the midst of selling hot to meet Wendell, Shirley and Greg, and dogs, candy, and nachos while volun- seeing them interact with Tony and teering for the LHS Athletic Boosters in Devin, I could not only see, but feel the the concession stand at the Lakewood love they have for their newest family High School Football Stadium. I was members. struck by his kind, genuine person- This fall finds Devin and Tony ality and sense of humor. One week full swing into their freshman year at later and back behind the concession Proud father Drew Goddard with his two adopted sons Devin and Tony Lakewood High School. As members counter, Drew and I talked more about of the Freshman Football team, they our children. I learned that he had a tive father. After much discernment, volunteering Drew met other parents. are proud to call themselves Rangers. son Devin, who, at that time, was an he decided he was most comfortable He began to feel part of the commu- Tony is looking forward to wrestling 8th grader at Garfield Middle School. adopting an older male. He had been nity, even meeting another family who this winter while Devin will take his Devin played football and basketball teaching 15 years in the Cleveland also adopted an African American athletic talents to the basketball court. and was looking forward to running Municipal School District with the child. Devin’s adoption was official on Win or lose, Drew will be there, cheer- middle school track in the spring. last five at the Cleveland School for August 16, 2006. ing on his boys. What began as just a Something in Drew’s eyes sparkled as the Arts. Drew knew he really liked During the fall of 2007 Drew volunteering opportunity for Drew has he spoke about his son. It seemed dif- the junior high age and felt very famil- and I volunteered several more times turned into a circle of friends with three ferent than the typical “macho-ness” iar with all that comes with it. Most together behind the concession coun- women whom the boys affectionately of a proud father. That evening I was of his students were African Ameri- ter, swapping stories about the joys and call “their moms”. Being one of them, I introduced to Devin when he stopped can. Knowing that there were so many trials of raising teenage boys. While it feel blessed to part of their lives. up to check in with his dad. Like his waiting to be adopted, Drew decided he is one of the toughest jobs as a parent, it My children have been richly father, he had a beautiful smile and would be best suited to raise a teenage is also the most rewarding. I was deeply blessed by their friendship with the warm demeanor. African American male. touched by Drew and his story of adop- boys. Whether my daughter Clare is After Devin left, Drew said ever so Once approved, in the spring of tion. I felt called to share his story with doing back tucks on the LHS football nonchalantly, “If you hadn’t guessed, 2005, Drew was excited to adopt right the Lakewood Community. field with Tony, or my son Ben is going Devin was adopted.” After purchas- away. Waiting was the hardest part. During that fall, Devin shared at it on the basketball court with Devin, ing a home in Lakewood in 2001, Drew Drew attended his first Adoption Mixer with Drew his desire to have a sibling. there is never a dull moment when we reached the point in his life where he in April 2005 at a local Cleveland bowl- Together they agreed to bring another are together. While parenting the boys felt it was time to give back. At 35 he ing alley. Taking a friend for support, he child into the Goddard family through does not come without its own set of was ready for a family of his own. It was signed in, looked around, and headed adoption. Not long after, Drew was told challenges, Drew, Devin and Tony are then the seed of adoption was planted. straight to the bathroom where he of a goofy, crazy, fun-loving, energetic a family. They do not take lightly their That seed continued to grow, and in cried. It was emotionally overwhelm- young man who had spent the last 8 second chance at life. They work hard the fall of 2004, Drew signed up for ing seeing all those kids who needed a years in foster homes, with the last two at school. They take their commitment classes through the Cuyahoga County home. A few weeks later, Drew received at the Berea Children’s Home. At 15, to their athletic endeavors seriously. Children’s and Family Services to look a call from his Social Worker. She had Tony had long given up the hope of ever Their lives no longer consist of visits into the possibility of adopting. Dur- five young males with matching crite- being adopted. Given the choice to say from social workers, but rather their ing 10 three-hour classes Drew was ria. On that list was a 12 year old boy ‘yes’ or ‘no’, Tony felt an instant con- grandparents and uncle. They have a able to discuss fostering versus adopt- named Devin. No last names were nection to Drew. With just three days father with whom they can share life’s ing, older versus younger children, given. Devin’s caseworker described notice and never hearing of Lakewood joys and sorrows. They talk of college single versus married parents. He him as a preteen who had been in fos- before, permanent placement living and careers. They not only have a house researched and gathered information ter homes for three years, played the arrangements were made for Tony to to go home to, but a family to celebrate about the issues involved with adop- saxophone, and loved sports. Drew met move in with Drew and Devin. Arriv- birthdays and holidays. I asked you tion, including emotional and physical Devin at the next Adoption Mixer. In ing on Christmas Eve, Tony enjoined a how you would describe this man. In abuse and raising children who are the days following, Drew made the call, holiday filled with lots of family, food my eyes Drew is an unsung hero. ethnically different. Drew found the he would like to adopt Devin. classes fascinating and enlightening. It was now time to tell his family. He learned the statistics about older Wendell and Shirley Goddard raised LOBSTER BISQUE HOW DO WE KNOW African-American boys - that there are Drew and his older brother Gary in IS BACK LAKEWOOD! many and they are often hard to place. Salem, Ohio. From the start, they were WE’RE THE BEST? He found himself becoming more and supportive of Drew’s desire to adopt. AND GET READY FOR more interested in adoption.In telling They looked forward to their new a few close friends of his intentions to grandson and nephew. Devin began THE ONSLAUGHT OF OUR adopt, their response was often, “Why visits at Drew’s home in early Novem- DELICIOUS AUTUMN BECAUSE would you want to do that?” ber. They continued until Devin’s SQUASH BISQUES! Somewhere deep down, Drew permanent placement on December 16, knew this was his calling. He felt con- 2005. Their first Christmas as a fam- fident he would be a great dad. Despite ily was spent in New York City. Devin YOU others’ doubts, Drew pressed on with adapted wonderfully to his new home SAID SO! the adoption process. He was assigned and life in Lakewood. He made friends a case worker from the county. After at his new school, Emerson Middle a long and arduous process of home School. He continued to succeed both Best Soup studies, letters of character references, on and off the athletic field. Adopting 2003, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08! background checks, fingerprinting, and Devin changed Drew’s life more than OHIO CITY • 2528 LORAIN AVE. • 216.737.SOUP more, Drew was approved as an adop- he ever imagined possible. Through 14809 DETROIT AVE. • 216.712.7292 • LAKEWOOD
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 18 The Lakewood Observer November 11, 2008
Conservation Corner Giving Thanks Without The Stress by Heather Ramsey in favor of other foods. Give yourself like straight from the farmer who raised a challenge by trying for a 100-Mile them! Local Harvest, an organiza- It is almost time for the beginning all over the globe. While it is a blessing Thanksgiving. Thousands of people tion dedicated to helping people access of what Americans tend to call the “hol- that we can obtain goods from nearly across the country have created inno- local foods, has a directory of farms iday season”, when traditional holidays anywhere, this blessing has taken, and vative 100-Mile meals already, and you and stores who offer local produce. You like Thanksgiving and Christmas are continues to take an enormous toll on can read their stories and get recipes can search the site by locations or even celebrated. Thanksgiving, that Thurs- the earth, not to mention our health. from 100milediet.org, TreeHugger, by specific foods. Check out their page day in November when we all celebrate Why not give thanks for the har- and any number of others. about turkey at http://www.localhar- the harvest season, or, more likely now- vest (and everything else you have to Though it can take a lot of work vest.org/organic-turkey.jsp. adays, whatever it is we feel thankful be thankful for, of course) with items to do an entire 100-Mile feast, and Though the Lakewood Farmer’s for, is nigh. Unfortunately, Thanksgiv- that actually were just harvested in may not even be possible without a lot Market and Lakewood Earth & Food ing meals of today are a great deal more the area? Buying local foods not only of advance preparation, every little step Community (LEAF)’s LEAF Nights stressful for our environment than the reduces energy use from transporta- counts. Buying an organic, local, and/or are over for the season, you can still celebration upon which they are based. tion, but also helps you get foods while free-range turkey is one of many things get local produce from the associated What was initially a local and organic they are fresh and still contain their you can do. Though there are loopholes Farmer’s Markets at Crocker Park (Sat- meal now tends to include turkeys valuable nutrients. Going green for in “free-range” labeling rules that could urdays from 9am-1pm) and Shaker raised on crowded factory farms eating Thanksgiving could mean the usual mean your turkey didn’t have a much Square (Saturday from 8am-noon) grain and antibiotics rather than local turkey, supplemented with local and/ better life than its factory farm coun- through December 13th. In addition, grasses and bugs, canned or boxed side or organic dishes; a turkey-substitute; terparts, organic and local birds are you can look for organic fruits and veg- dishes whose origins may be even more a smaller, organic, free-range turkey; sure to be better, and if you go local, gies at stores like Giant Eagle, Heinen’s, suspect, and produce trucked in from or even abandoning turkey altogether you can find out what conditions were and Nature’s Bin. If you’re looking to try a Tofurky this year (more informa- tion available at tofurky.com), they are available at Trader Joe’s stores Inspired Space When shopping, try to buy items in as little packaging as possible, and in the largest size that you’ll use. When Sort, Purge, Assign, Contain, Equalize packaging is unavoidable, choose materials that are recyclable or contain by Kristine Pagsuyoin or trade items try, clevelandfreecycle. recycled content (or both). Rather than com, craigslist.com, or ebay. Throw a contributing to the billions of pounds With all the bad news about the Dilemma. You may feel you need to trading party in your neighborhood, of food thrown away every year, try to economy, now can be the right time to add: Gifts, Charity, Return (if you have and never underestimate the power of purchase and cook only what you’ll be tackle those de-cluttering projects that a receipt), and Selling. Take the time the Lakewood tree lawn for passing on able to eat before it spoils. Though it is have been on your mind. That old clut- to touch and reflect upon each posses- stuff you don’t want. always difficult to estimate, keep past ter could be money in your pocket! Extra sion you are considering letting go. Place ASSIGN years in mind and think back to all cash from your unwanted stuff can help unwanted possessions as you de-clutter. Now is the time to start organizing those leftover turkey sandwiches you’ve make ends meet or pay for a well-deserved For Repairs be sure you are willing to the the possessions you are keeping and to had to force down when that turkey night our after all of your efforts to cut- do repair soon, or don’t keep the item. Try make decisions about where they will go just never seemed to end. Rather than back, and after-all, Christmas shopping to keep the Dilemma box small; however, in the room, or space. Try clearing out buying an entire turkey, you could just time is just around the corner. this box does come in handy so that you the room completely so that it is empty get a breast, or only thighs and wings, After you have determined where don’t get hung up on one item too long like the day you moved into your home. or even stick with the entire turkey, but and what to de-clutter, and have begun and stop the process. The Transit box is Many times new ideas will come to you, downgrade a few pounds. what can sometimes be a very emo- used for those items you want to keep, but such as, paint color or how you want When serving the meal, the best tional process of letting go, then it is is being moved to another place in your the room to feel. You might even decide way is to use dishes you already own. time to figure out what to do with the house. At the end of the day (or when the that the room has a new, better function However, if washing all those dishes at unwanted stuff. You must get it out of timer goes off) put supplies or posses- than what you originally intended. the end is giving you nightmares, con- your space as soon as possible. Don’t sions that still need to be evaluated away CONTAIN sider purchasing disposable dishes and start “new” clutter by keeping bags of neatly. Start fresh each time you work on Notice that this step is almost the utensils that are biodegradable (mate- clothes you are meaning to donate, or the clutter instead of when you are feeling last thing you do, not the first. So many rials include sugarcane and potato boxes of unwanted possessions waiting tired or overwhelmed. Sometimes you people, after deciding to de-clutter and scraps) or paper plates that have been to be passed on to someone else. will get more done when you walk away get organized, run out and buy a bunch made using recycled fibers. Most people are just at a loss at what and take a break. of containers before they even know There is, of course, more to to do with their unwanted belongings, PURGE what they are going to keep. This is really Thanksgiving than food. Millions of and they feel guilty just throwing stuff Remove the unwanted posses- the fun step because now you get to put Americans will travel even more mil- away. To solve this problem, you first sions right away. Schedule a pick-up your new room together. Explore cre- lions of miles this holiday season to need to have a system as you de-clutter, from a local charity, or set a date for a ative ways to contain your possessions spend time with their loved ones. If you then secondly, a plan to get it out of your garage sale (within 30 days). If you let while still maintaining a sense of style, are among these millions and are trav- life for good. S-P-A-C-E, which stands it just sit in your space, you are start- especially if your space is small. Now- elling by car, get a tune-up before you for: Sort, Purge, Assign, Contain, and ing new clutter towards which you may adays, there are tons of resources and go to be sure that you get optimal gas Equalize is one process you can utilize assign new feelings of guilt. Pass It On: ways that you can create a room that is mileage on the road. Better yet, take a to help with the de-cluttering process. A Resource-full Guide to Donating functional, clutter-free, and beautiful. train or bus to your destination, if the How to use SPACE-- in your space: Usable Stuff, lists almost every con- EQUALIZE option is available. When getting the SORT ceivable item that could be donated This last step is about you maintain- house decorated to warmly greet your Get 5 basic boxes or totes labeled: and who will take it. To get a copy, ing your space and staying in control of friends and family, reuse decorations Trash, Repairs, Recycling, Transit, and call, 216-443-3749. If you want to sell your clutter! There should be no stress you’ve kept from past years, or buy dec- involved when it is time to clean-up at orations that you will be able to reuse in the end of your day, because now every- the future. As an alternative, try making Need a Holistic Alternative? thing you have kept should have a place. decorations yourself. This will not only Pet PASTRIES Call to discuss Macrobiotic Diets, Herbal Set de-cluttering dates, done monthly, have money-saving potential, but can be and Natural Homeopathic Treatments, all natural - the healthy alternative First Aid and Natural Household Products seasonally, or weekly, to revisit areas in a fun and creative activity for the whole More than just a treat. A portion of proceeds benefits to aid in your companion’s well being. your home prone to attracting clutter. family that can become a lasting part of animal welfare organizations. Curbing impulsive shopping and buying your holiday traditions. 'FBUVSJOH: We use 100% natural ingredients fortified with vitamins and minerals will help you avoid clutter build-up while No matter what steps you take to help boost immune support and target specific ailments CORE Essence using the World’s Healthiest Foods. 1FPQMFBOE1FU'SJFOEMZ/BUVSBMT saving you money. Ask yourself, before toward making your festivities sus- Human grade, No Chemical Additives, No Artificial Preservatives, Vet Approved! you buy it, where will it go once I get it tainable, take satisfaction in them and 216.647.1911 www.pet-pastries.com home? If you don’t know, don’t buy it. enjoy your holiday.
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com November 11, 2008 The Lakewood Observer Page 19
Pulse Of The City
Those Among Us: Jim Tigue- Lakewood Woodworker Extraordinaire! by Gary Rice are custom-built, wooden keychain toothpick holders! These days, as our fingers fly over Jim’s pens are made one at a time these ubiquitous computer keyboards, (as are his other devices). They‘re hand- it’s hard to realize that not too long ago crafted, and many are hand-turned. the pen and the pencil were the prin- To me, they’re truly works of art. In cipal vehicles of communication in a recent exhibition up at Lakewood this world. Then, the typewriters came Hardware, during the Art Walk, Dad along, and personal writing instru- bought two beautiful pens from Jim for ments began to bow to technology. my birthday. Jim normally exhibits at After WWII, the ink pen was improved craft shows, where his products are on with ball-point, and later, gel technol- display for all to see. ogy- but by the 1980’s, computers were To write with one of Jim’s pens eclipsing the pens and typewriters, is an experience that I’ve found to be running them off the map. Nowadays, most enjoyable. There’s something those small hand-held text-messaging about putting one’s thoughts on paper devices and electric memo pads would while holding a custom-built writing seem to make handwriting virtually instrument, this is truly inspirational obsolete. Jim Tigue, with his many creations to me. These pens would make fan- But not for everyone, it seems. tastic holiday gifts for those inclined, Particularly, for those who value These days, Jim (the son) is a well- His specialty these days, is and Jim currently has a good supply the unique and timeless personal known and highly talented guitarist making custom writing pens using of great pens waiting for their lucky beauty of the hand-written note, espe- and singer, having a solo act, and also beautiful unusual woods, mother-of- owners. cially when crafted with a unique, having been with the Tie-Die/Harvest pearl, corncobs, and other amazing Jim’s work can be seen on display hand-built pen. bands, among others. materials. His pens range in cost at a number of upcoming area holiday Lakewood is fortunate to have Jim (the father) has held a variety from about 25 dollars, up to around craft shows this year. His pens can also many unique and talented one-of- of jobs in his life; meat cutter, soldier, 100 dollars or more. He also makes be purchased at Lakewood’s Galleria a-kind individuals who have the insurance, and then, being part of the wooden business card holders, mini- D’ Arte, at 15614 Detroit Ave. power to quicken and inspire the pharmaceutical business. He finally lights, and the best custom wood You can get in touch with him pulse of our city with their time, retired from the pharmaceutical indus- refrigerator magnets ($5) that I’ve directly for a schedule of those their talents, and in this case, by try... In his retirement, Jim decided to ever seen! (Will hold up to 15 sheets events, or to see his pens, at (216) their handiwork. focus on his woodworking hobby by of paper, Jim says) Among other really 226-6620 or by e-mailing thetigues@ Jim Tigue Sr. is a woodworker. I applying his creative passion towards practical devices that Jim makes sbcglobal.net. came to know him years ago when I crafting beautiful items that others can was helping his son Jim, with his music. enjoy.
Proudly Painting Lakewood Homes for over 11 Years! McGuire Painting Professional Interior Painting
FREE ESTIMATES!!! Flexible Terms Available: “Let me paint your rental, pay me when you rent it.”
“Mike painted the interior of my home beautifully. His attention to detail was above and beyond what I expected. From prep to cleanup, Mike was fast, courteous, professional and extremely reasonable. I recommend McGuire Painting without hesitation.” – Deb O’Bryan
Michael McGuire 216-221-7033
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com Page 20 The Lakewood Observer November 11, 2008
Back Page Advertising Heem’s Auto Connection Good Used Tires $15 & Up! Just Outside of Lakewood!
• FALL CLEANUP 10519 Madison Avenue 216 780-8294 WE PAY TOP $$$ FOR JUNK CARS • SNOW PLOWING Bob’s Appliance Service Repairs On Most Major Brand Appliances #OMMERCIAL 'RADE 7ASHERS • PARKING LOT SALTING AND $RYERS n !MERICAN -ADE s 3TOVES s $ISHWASHERS )NDEPENDENT $EALER s 2EFRIGERATORS s 7ASHERS$RYERS 24 Hour Service s 3ERVING ,AKEWOOD AND THE 7ESTSIDE 3UBURBS 3INCE s 1UALITY 2EBUILT 7ASHERS AND $RYERS s $ELIVERY !VAILABLE 216/521-9353 Leave Message on Machine 1-216-526-3954 2003/05/06/07/08 Angie’s List Super Service Award!
RELIABLE CONSTRUCTION Interior And Exterior Painting Of Homes, Offices, 216 221-0012 Places Of Business, Condos, Rentals, New Construction, SERVING LAKEWOOD SINCE 1982 Additions, Basements, Fence FULLY INSURED - BONDED - FREE QUOTES And Deck Staining, Drywall FULL SERVICE Repair, Plastering, Wallpaper REMODELING Removal, Paint Removal. ALL CARPENTRY PROJECTS Current Member Of The Cleveland BBB SIDING Visa/mastercard/discover, GENERAL REPAIRS Insured. 216-287-7468 www.phoenixcoffee.com Lakewood Business. Member of the BBB References. More Than 20 1-Owner Cars To Choose From Look For The One Owner Sticker On THe Windshield Buckle up. Cox High Speed Internet just got even faster. 2002 Jeep Liberty Limited 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser 1999 Buick Regal GS speeds up to Loaded, 1-Owner $9995 11K Miles, 1-Owner $8450 Clean 1-Owner Car $5995 20Mbps www.SteveBarryBuick.com
2004 Buick Century 2005 Saturn Ion 2 2005 Chevy Trailblazer LT Ahead of the race 28K Miles, 1-Owner $11,995 9K Miles, 1-Owner $12,995 23K Miles, 1-Owner $14,995 Ř $IWHUFRQVHFXWLYH\HDUVRIVSHHGHQKDQFHPHQWV\RXFDQEHFRQILGHQW WKDW&R[ZLOOFRQWLQXHWROHDGLQVSHHG Ř &R[+LJK6SHHG,QWHUQHW60LVNortheast Ohio’s fastest Internet provider, with speeds up to twice as fast as DSL’s top speed.*
Accelerate your fun Ř 6DYHWLPHZLWKLQFUHDVHGXSORDGDQGGRZQORDGVSHHGVWKDWDOORZ \RXWRDFFHVVPRYLHVPXVLFJDPHVSKRWRVDQGPRUHLQDIODVK Ř /HDGWKHRQOLQHJDPLQJSDFNZLWK,QWHUQHWVSHHGVIDVWHUWKDQ'6/ 2006 Pontiac G6 GT 2006 Chrysler 300 Touring 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix 21K Miles, 1-Owner $16,995 33K Miles, 1-Owner $16,995 21K Miles, 1-Owner $14,995
Add the Preferred or Premier package with PowerBoost® Ř 3RZHU%RRVWJLYHV\RXDQH[WUDEXUVWRIVSHHGWRXSORDGDQGGRZQORDGODUJH ILOHVHYHQIDVWHU Ř Just call 216-535-1149 today and get your 1st month free!* Ř Plus, get a free modem with rebate!**
2005 Buick Rendezvous CXL 2003 Mercury Sable Wagon 2001 Buick LeSabre 27K Miles, 1-Owner $16,995 21 K Miles, 1-Owner $9995 Nice 1-Owner Car $6995
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p0ESVY0ESV$7 7VSHHG3RZHU%RRVWpLVD UHJLVWHUHGWUDGHPDUNRI&RPFDVW&RUSRUDWLRQ8VHGZLWK3HUPLVVLRQ,QVWDOODWLRQIHHVPD\DSSO\2WKHUUHVWULFWLRQVDSSO\k&R[&RP,QFGED&R[ &RPPXQLFDWLRQV&OHYHODQG$UHD$OOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 216-920-0866
Join the Discussion at: www.lakewoodobserver.com