FREE Volume 4 Number 6 take oneJune 1, 2011 VOTE HEIGHTS OBSERVER for the read local. shop local. Published by Best of the Heights Serving Cleveland Heights and University Heights • Latest news updates at www.heightsobserver.org pg. 28 INSIDE CH declares four properties nuisances, prepares 6 CureSearch for demolition walk is June 4 Dana finley

Council Member Kenneth Montlack introduced three resolutions at the May 16 city council meeting that declared properties on Coventry Road to be 11 public nuisances. A fourth resolution Local declared a Northcliffe Road property businesses to be a nuisance. All four resolutions,

eligible for which passed unanimously, authorized a fi n ley a n energy efficiency D abatement of the nuisance— likely to 1724 Coventry Road deemed a public nuisance. grant lead to demolition of the houses. Photos of each property were dis- “Most of the problem properties has been removed. A memorandum played at the meeting to illustrate the are on submarket streets or neigh- from Wagner to Robert Downey, city severe structural issues. While three of borhoods,” Montlack said in a later 13-16 manager, regarding the property stated: the properties are located in close prox- interview. “North Coventry has had “The exterior is rapidly deteriorating Black& imity on the same street, Rick Wagner, up-and-down two-family houses. In due to needed roof repair/replacement. manager of housing programs for Cleve- general, streets and parts of streets with The property has been broken into and land Heights, declined to frame it as a up-and-down two-family houses have suffers from serious neglect. The cost of Gold neighborhood issue. weaker housing markets and are less rehabilitation would far exceed the prop- “It’s not so much a north Coventry desirable for people with choices.” erty value.” Foreclosure for the residence issue as it is a local and even national is- All four of the “nuisance” homes are was filed in March 2009. sue,” he said, noting that the foreclosure unoccupied. While Cleveland Heights has The three-family dwelling at 1655 23 crisis has played an integral role in the rehabilitated some such homes for resale, Coventry Road is owned by Yolanda Seitz-Agin demise of these properties. both Wagner and Montlack believe these Collier, of Shaker Heights, but is cur- hardware Montlack agreed, saying that the four are past the point of no return. rently unoccupied. The property has to close issue isn’t specific to the north Cov- The two-family home at 1633 Coven- been previously posted by Cuyahoga entry neighborhood but rather to any try Road, owned by Caden Development County. It needs lead abatement, major neighborhood with a lot of two-family LLC of South Bend, Indiana, has numer- foundation work and a new roof. In a and rental properties. ous broken windows and the plumbing continued on page 8 Few residents attend school FutureHeights to screen ‘The New Metropolis’ facilities listening session Richard Stewart

“The New Metropolis,” a two-part Dana finley The building assessment subcom- documentary film and community Nonprofit Organization Nonprofit US Postage PAID OH Cleveland, no. 920 Permit mittee concluded that the district’s engagement project, will highlight The school facilities committee for the buildings have significant issues that FutureHeights’s annual meeting on Cleveland Heights-University Heights require constant maintenance. Its sum- Tuesday, June 21, at 7 p.m., at the Cedar City School District held a “public lis- mary also stated that the basic systems Lee Theatre. The screening is free and tening session” on May 12 to get public in the CH-UH schools are “typically open to the public. feedback on its assessment process of inadequate” and in need of replacement. The film documents the implica- the district’s buildings. About 16 com- An assessment of the school district tions of America’s suburban migration

Deliver to addressee or current Deliver resident munity members attended. by the State of Ohio concluded that and challenges older suburbs face— During the first hour of the session, the district’s facilities were in need of shrinking populations, property aban- each of four subcommittees briefly pre- significant repair and replacement. donment, a dwindling tax base and sented their findings, and James Seaman The committee compared the limited resources to maintain a good of Fielding Nair International, a school district’s facility situation with that of quality of life—both for the people architectural firm that has worked closely Lakewood, a school district comparable who currently live there and for attract- with the district, presented his opinions in size and composition. Lakewood is ing new residents. An opportunity to via video chat on the district and its po- reportedly spending $205 million on a discuss the issues raised in the film will tential to be restructured for 21st-century districtwide program to construct both

FutureHeights FutureHeights #103 Lee Road 2163 Heights, OH 44118 Cleveland follow the screening. learning. new and renovated buildings. “Many of the topics raised in the City of Cleveland Heights receives a high The education subcommittee film will be familiar and particularly sa- focused its brief presentation around lient to Heights residents,” said Deanna volume of applications for vacant council seat the issue of what drives 21st-century Bremer Fisher, executive director of Fu- learning. According to the committee, tureHeights. “The film highlights many Dana finley plications. He explained that because of 21st-century learning is an approach that of the challenges we, and communities the large number of applicants, it would is highly customizable and adaptable. like us, currently face.” The City of Cleveland Heights has be impossible to interview each one. Ideally, this concept includes creating The annual meeting is one of Fu- received applications from 18 people The application asks potential smaller schools within a larger school. tureHeights’s signature programs, each seeking appointment to fill the seat council members to discuss special The subcommittee implied that of which is designed to revitalize the vacated by former Council Member skills they have that would be valuable by the 2014–15 school year, all state- community through education and en- Mark Tumeo. in serving on city council, along with mandated testing would be based on gagement. According to Bremer Fisher, Tumeo’s last council meeting was their educational and employment 21st-century learning skills. the FutureHeights programs give Cleve- May 16. He left the area to serve as backgrounds; recent community, profes- The facilities options subcommittee land Heights and University Heights dean of engineering at the University sional, and charitable involvements; and estimated that the minimally-required re- citizens the opportunity to directly par- of North Florida. their goals for the community. pairs and replacements will total more than ticipate in making their neighborhoods Cleveland Heights Mayor Ed Kel- The applicants are: Robert L. $40 million, while the cost of renovating better places to live, work and play. ley said that he and the council are Brooks, Jr., Jill R. Cohn, Jeff Coryell, the entire district’s infrastructure, with no “FutureHeights is dedicated to narrowing down the list of applicants Chirstopher Cummings, Shaylawnda change in size or configuration, would total building the future of the Heights,” said to interview based on their written ap- continued on page 7 continued on page 7 continued on page 5 Heights Observer June 1, 2011 1 www.heightsobserver.org opinion

Letters Policy Letters to the Editor Best of the Heights: Nominate your favorite businesses The Heights Observer welcomes letters to the editor. They must be submitted electronically, along with say, in the opening of a new outlet 1,500 from residents and previous nomi- the writer’s name, phone number and Opening miles away. Local merchants also tend to nees, the business categories have e-mail address, to: the Observer contribute a larger percentage of their been revised and the nomination form www.heightsobserver.org/members or revenue to local causes. streamlined to make the process easier e-mail: [email protected] That’s why it’s so hard when a store and more interesting. Bob Rosenbaum like Seitz-Agin Hardware closes. Yes, the Please take time to fill out the form store stocked products that 100-year- on page 28. If you prefer, you can find HEIGHTS OBSERVER One reason FutureHeights began pub- old homes need and that Home Depot it online at www.futureheights.org. The Heights Observer is a citizen-based news source lishing the Heights Observer was to can’t be bothered to stock. But just as By participating in this celebration published monthly by FutureHeights, a nonprofit, provide an easy and affordable way important, I’m not sure Seitz-Agin’s of local business, you help to honor the 501(c)3 organization dedicated to civic engage- ment and quality of life. for local businesses to reach potential owner, Joel Borwick, ever said no to merchants who serve you best, and re- 2163 Lee Rd., #103, customers. anyone who asked for financial support mind them why they chose the Heights Cleveland Heights, OH 44118. Why? Local merchants are a big 216.320.1423 for some local cause. as the place to do business. Copyright 2008 FutureHeights, All rights reserved. part of what gives the Heights its unique When you spend money with a local To express your opinion privately, e-mail Bob Any reproduction is forbidden without written permis- atmosphere. By helping those businesses merchant, it’s like having a rebate direct- sion. Rosenbaum at [email protected]. To to thrive, the thinking goes, Future- deposited into your neighborhood. PUBLISHER express your opinion as a letter to the editor, Heights serves the community. FutureHeights believes so strongly Deanna Bremer Fisher register at the Observer Member Center [email protected] Also, according to a series of well- in this simple dynamic that we put the (http://heightsobserver.org/members) ADVERTISING known studies (www.civiceconomics.com), message on the front page of every Jim Kuth and click on “Submit New Story” to contrib- money spent with local independent edition—right below the name of the 216.513.3070 or 216.320.1423 ute your letter. [email protected] businesses does more good for the paper: r e a d l o c a l , s h o p l o c a l . All this Editorial advisory committee area’s economy than money spent with is a long introduction to this year’s Best Bob Rosenbaum, chairman of the Ob- Bob Rosenbaum, chair; Carrie Buchanan, David Budin, server’s editorial advisory committee and John Ettorre, Greg Donley, Frank Lewis, Eleanor Mallet, national chains. of the Heights awards, a program that Jewel Moulthrop, Vince Reddy, Clare Taft Their overhead expenses are lo- recognizes our local merchants for the FutureHeights board member, writes this Editors cated here, and earnings are more likely way they serve us. column to provide transparency and under- Maryann Barnes, Deanna Bremer Fisher, Chris Hall, Car- to be reinvested here, too, instead of, This year, based on suggestions standing about the newspaper. rie Buchanan, David Budin, Greg Donley, Dana Finley, Kelli Fontenot, Frank Lewis, Eleanor Mallet, Fran Mentch, Jewel Moulthrop, Holly Pangrace, Vince Reddy, Bob Rosenbaum, Jessica Schreiber, Kim Sergio Inglis, Dermot Somerville, Clare Taft, Adele Zucker Have you read our blog? webmaster Dan Ott design and PRODUCTION Excerpts from recent posts at blogs.heightsobserver.org Temma Collins and Ruth D’Emilia The Real Meaning of the Closing of is why I christened my private investigation local schools. Are South Euclid residents PRODUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION aware of this? Deanna Bremer Fisher Seitz-Agin Hardware business Milan Securities after my first name. The last time I talked to Joel about the store’s Put the American slant on it—My-lan—and —Sarah Wean The views and opinions expressed in this publication health was shortly after I learned that the don’t say it the way you’d pronounce the do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of FirstEnergy: Not as Smart as They the Heights Observer, its publisher and staff, or of weekly deliveries had been curtailed. He told name of an Eastern European, or the Italian Want You to Think FutureHeights, its staff and board of directors. me that he felt he had survived the impact city noted for its fashion shows and its opera Seed funding for the Heights Observer gener- So its seems that FirstEnergy’s business phi- of Home Depot. But what he wasn’t sure he house. I’d gently corrected her on the phone, ously provided by the Cyrus Eaton Foundation, the losophy (in my neighborhood anyway) can Dominion Foundation, and the Katherine and Lee could survive is a change he observed in his and now Savannah said my name carefully, be summarized like this: Charge people as Chilcote Foundation. Powered by the 9th Estate. customers. They just weren’t making repairs as if she’d been practicing. much as possible to consume as much elec- anymore the way my father did and the way Her son, twenty-eight-year-old Earl tricity as they possibly can while providing I do. They had stopped calling for referrals to Dacey, was missing. He had left the house the most inefficient and unsatisfactory service plumbers and plasterers and furnace guys— six days earlier and hadn’t been heard from imaginable. old-home experts who bought their supplies since. Now his mother wanted to know what Clowns? Or an example of brilliant from Seitz-Agin. had become of him. “He never stayed out all management? Let’s just agree that they have maybe Joel has misread it. Perhaps night in his life,” she moaned. “If he’s ever some really big shoes to fill. people are finding their experts through half an hour late getting home, he always —Bob Rosenbaum Angie’s List on the internet. Or using Home calls me. Always. He’s a good boy.” GARDEN DESIGN & COACHING Depot’s growing installation and repair busi- —Frank Lewis School Days ness. Maybe the big box really has done in The boy who shoved her was still giggling landscape and Seitz-Agin. Random Access Oakwood Questions and headed back for a second go-round. WWW.BLOOMCREATIONSDESIGN.COMgarden coach Or maybe people really have changed. Here’s a weird below-the-radar fact: The The young lady didn’t look so happy. I pulled —Bob Rosenbaum tax revenue going to the schools from this my vehicle to the far side of the street and project goes not to the South Euclid-Lynd- headed over to the group. They were just Please call for a Books: An Excerpt from Les Roberts’ hurst School District, as many South Euclid playing around but I would’ve hated to see The Cleveland Creep residents would believe, but to the Cleveland someone hurt as a result of silly kid stuff. So consultation. “It’s kind of you to see me on such short no- Heights-University Heights School District, I asked the group to control their behavior tice, Mr. Jacovich,” she said. She’d phoned even though two-thirds of the development’s and tone down the play. Several of the young me the day before and had mispronounced footprint is in South Euclid. The developer’s GARDEN DESIGN & COACHING men apologized and said they understood. my last name. If it gives you trouble, just sound own marketing materials, a brochure sent to They returned to their walk but not before it out properly with the J sounding like a Y— South Euclid residents, says “$1.1 million to someone in the crowd yelled, “Get your fat WWW.BLOOMCREATIONSDESIGN.COM Yock-o-vitch. It’s hard to say, I think, which the local schools,” but they don’t say whose behind in your truck and go home.” —Andrea Davis SINCE There’s a better way to keep cool this summer... 1971 So Schedule your Air Conditioning Tune-Up Now! FREE ESTIMATES (440) 439- 7900 (216)577-4171(216)577-4171 Only $89 EAST SERVING ALL OF CUYAHOGA COUNTY WEST ALL JOBS INCLUDE: ● Secure all permits We Do Concrete OVER 300 TEAS, Driveways ● Sidewalks Over 300 teas, ● Removal of old garage HERBS, SPICES AND Foundations ● Patios herbs, spices and ● Expert concrete work CULINARY RX. 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Heights Observer June 1, 2011 2 www.heightsobserver.org letters

Farewell to Seitz-Agin University Heights going to look like in 50 small to have a economic development East Cleveland abut. years? What do the residents affected by staff person and had to take the opportu- A Toro minitractor and two ATVs This letter to Joel Borwick, longtime owner these projects think, and why can’t the city nities with which it is presented. If this is helped haul out about 50 bags of trash. of Seitz-Agin Hardware, was also provided make the developer address their concerns the dynamic driving our decisions, then Participants also collected an oxygen can- to the Observer for publication. as individuals? just what is University Heights going to ister, a plastic chair, several plastic stor- No one can answer the first ques- look like in 50 years? I will tell you this: age cubes, plastic tubing, a camp stove, Dear Joel: tion because no one has thought about My house will be 125 years old, and I about 20 tires and a transmission. Just a brief note to express thanks and it in a meaningful way. The answer to the won’t be upgrading it, because I won’t Volunteers also discovered a struc- admiration for all you have done for us second question is all too apparent. be able to get my money back out of it. ture resembling a rounded teepee. It was in Cleveland Heights these many years. I really wonder how allowing a Mc- Thank you very much city council and intricately built of tree branches, cov- The guys you put together were a unique Donalds on Warrensville will improve Temple B’nai Torah. ered with a layer of leaves and plastic. group, wise in the difficulties of wonder- University Heights property values. There has to be a formal plan for The structure was well hidden behind ful old houses, always responsive, forth- Other than a shallow gain to our tax the city. There is not. There has to be a hillock a few hundred feet from the right, and well, just plain trustworthy! It base, I can’t really see this as a good an attitude by city council to respect Dugway culvert, and did not appear to was a marvelous combination that you decision. Apparently neither does city the wishes of existing residents and to have been lived in recently. After the put together with such wonderful men. council. And yet they approved the protect the value of individual property. cleanup, only a pile of sticks remained. You all will be greatly missed—there project anyway given the “narrowness” If these projects are going to continue In the lower valley, parking lot vol- is going to be an absence of a “sense of the action they were requested to because “that is what comes down the unteers clambered up and down the sur- of security” for us who have used your take. The explanations of city council are pike,” then residents must be offered rounding slopes and collected 20 bags of services these many years. If you did neither satisfying nor defensible. If the remuneration by the developers as part trash, including a vehicle bumper and a not have what we needed, you could get vice mayor thinks it is a poor use of the of the cost of doing their projects. plastic cooler. it for us, tell us alternatives, or tell us property, then vote no. The justification Stuart Mendel In the parking lot off Forest Hills where we could get what we needed. need go no further than the 10 neighbors University Heights Boulevard, volunteers found hundreds We just wanted you to know—and who object to the project. What is their of beer bottles behind the mound of leaf we believe we are speaking for many remediation? What is their recourse? humus. One volunteer reported that in —that your operation of Seitz-Agin Changing the traffic patterns does not Clean-up volunteers years past she has seen after-the-game Hardware was a true blessing. We wish address the smell, noise and commotion baseball players with their car trunks you well and all your workers well and of a restaurant open 18 hours a day. find unusual items, open having social hour. all good things forever! If University Heights council thinks and have fun While working on a clean-up event, it needs a McDonald’s, put it somewhere one wonders about the human propen- Sam and Sue Nigro in the University Square Complex. If they A good, mud-splattered time was had sity to trash our environment. Cleveland Heights are restricted by the actions of the owner by the 50 volunteers who turned out for The park is always in need of vol- of the property, buy it from him and the Cuyahoga County Board of Health- unteer labor, and there will be other What will University land bank it. It would be worth the debt backed Forest Hill Park-Dugway Brook clean-up opportunities. If you have a Heights look like in incurred. Then build an office building Clean-Up Day on May 14, coordinated group interested in doing community or something else. by the cities of East Cleveland and service work in the park, contact Dick 50 years? I had the chance to address a group Cleveland Heights. Secor at 216-407-1887 or e-mail Elsa of University Heights seniors a week or Much of the focus of the cleanup Johnson at [email protected]. For me the issues of McDonalds on War- two ago about regional sustainability and was in the valley where the two branches rensville and Temple B’nai Torah on South collaboration. One of the participants of Dugway Brook join together and the Elsa Johnson Green are about three things: Just what is mentioned that University Heights is too park borders of Cleveland Heights and Cleveland Heights

FutureHeights is leading the Sustain- Heights engages citizens. Engaged citi- Build the Future of the Heights able Heights Network initiative, which zens build strong communities. Help us will catapult the Heights to become a build the future of the Heights! How do you build the future of a com- sustainable future for Cleveland Heights local leader in sustainability. Please take a minute to fill out this munity? It can be as simple as turning and University Heights neighborhoods. • Building Community Partnerships form and mail it with your membership off the TV, leaving the house and getting How do we do this? FutureHeights partners with many check to FutureHeights today. to know your neighbors. • Promoting Civic Engagement community organizations on projects You can also donate online at www. It can also mean volunteering at We hold public forums and host speakers. that build upon the assets of our com- futureheights.org or www.heightsobserver. your local neighborhood school or li- • Publishing the Heights Observer munity. org. Or call 216 320-1423. brary, attending a community forum or The Heights Observer enables the com- Learn more about how Future- Thank you for your support! writing a letter to the editor of the local munity to tell its own story. Each Heights Builds the Future of the Heights newspaper. month, volunteers help write and edit at our annual meeting, Tuesday, June Help us Build the Future of the stories, and anyone can participate. 21 at 7 p.m., at the Cedar Lee Theatre. Heights. FutureHeights is an organization • Supporting our Local Economy We will host a screening of “The New made up of people like you, Heights resi- FutureHeights brought American Inde- Metropolis,” by Andrea Torrice, a two- Deanna Bremer Fisher dents, who want to promote civic engage- pendent Business Alliance co-founder, part documentary about the challenges Executive Director ment through education, advocacy and Jeff Milchen, to the Heights in 2010 to facing America’s First Suburbs, and a information on issues that concern them. discuss the importance of independent community discussion. RSVP at http:// Now is the best time to become a businesses to the local economy, and we futureheightsannualmeeting.eventbrite.com. member of FutureHeights. Won’t you have helped form aA Heights year’s worth Indepen of ways -to buildLearn community more inat the www.futureheights.org Heights or join us? dent Business Alliance.January February by calling 216-320-1423.March April Lloyd May Bell June FutureHeights is committed to • Creating a VibrantAttend and SusRecycle- Your financialVisit one contributionof the Support will make President,Pick up litterBoard on of DirectorsOrganize a engaging citizens to build a healthy and tainable Future fora community the Heights a difference Heightsin your Libraries community. neighborhood Future- your street or block party forum schools someone else’s □Yes, I want to help FutureHeights Build the Future of the Heights! □ I/We have enclosed a check made payable to FutureHeights □ Senior/Student $15 □ Individual $30 www.futureheights.org □ Please chargewww.futureheights.org my MasterCard orwww.futureheights.org Visa (AMEX and www.futureheights.org Discover not accepted)www.futureheights.org www.futureheights.org □ Dual/Family $50* □ Civic ChampionJuly $75 August□ Please divideSeptember my credit card payment October into equal amountsNovember charged □ MonthlyDecember □ Quarterly Vote for the Write an article Fix it, even if you ______Walk to school Bike to work, Buy from local □ Citizen Activist $125 □ Squeaky Wheeldid not break $250 it Best of the school or the in the Heights merchants HeightsCredit Card Number store Observer Exp. Date □ Newspaper Publisher $500 □ Other $______* I/We want to support citizen-driven, community news. With a $50 or more gift, FutureHeights will send 12 issues of the Heights Observer directly to my home or business. Card Holder’s Name (Please print as it appears on the card)

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As you would like it to appear in recognition of your gift. FutureHeights 2163 Lee Rd#103, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 Tel. 216-320-1423 E-mail [email protected] Other ways to support FutureHeights and ensure our work into the future: □ I/We wish to remain anonymous. □ Volunteer. I/We wish to volunteer with FutureHeights in the following capacity______Please contact me/us. Address ______□ Matching Gifts. My employer will match my donation. Company name: ______□ Bequests. I/We have remembered FutureHeights in my/our will or estate plan. City ______State ______Zip______□ Appreciated Stock. Please contact me/us to arrange for my/our gift in the form of a stock transfer. Phone ______E-mail ______Mail To: FutureHeights, 2163 Lee Road, #103, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118

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Heights Observer June 1, 2011 3 www.heightsobserver.org university heights news University Heights Inches, pounds and comfort food

point of view are single-mirror cubicles, the kindest. City Council Some have two, “the better to see you, my dear.” Then there is the terrible three-way mirror cubicle that won’t meeting highlights Anita Kazarian allow you to keep a single delusion. APRIL 18, 2011 ment plans from McDonald’s Corporation for Take in the cutest suits to try Councilman Phillip Ertel was excused. 2216-2234 Warrensville Center Road. A spe- It’s June, early in the month. Snow on. Then start squirming. Did they Piggyback tax cial meeting was held on May 9 in council cham- change how they size bathing suits bers. The proposal is on the city’s website. jackets and flannel bed sheets are put The Regional Income Tax Agency (RITA) in- away. Summer clothes take their happy over the winter? Sometimes the top formed the city that a suggestion was made Votes delayed due to lack of quorum is too small, or the bottom is, or there during discussion of the state biennial budget Several ordinances were either tabled or posts at the front of the closet. It is just isn’t enough “suit.” We repeat this, that the state should collect municipal income switched from “emergency” to “first reading” time to face the music—bathing suits tax through a piggyback tax on the State of status due to the lack of a quorum. These come out of hiding. usually in more than one more shop, Ohio tax return. include an amendment agreement with the There’s no denying it. Also com- until one finally fits. Now you tell me, McDonald’s traffic study Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority ing out of hiding from beneath winter who wouldn’t dread this? and the Cleveland Heights-University Heights URS engineers have completed the McDonald’s sweaters and sweatpants, is winter’s Maybe another option—diet— City School District relating to a cooperative traffic study. Copies will be delivered to council comfort food, inexplicably trans- makes better sense. How hard can it be and will also be available for public viewing. agreement, a tax increment financing (TIF) agreement, and a memorandum of understand- formed into inches and pounds. to get rid of winter’s inches and pounds? A work session to be held on April 26 will I buy Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink. involve council, department directors, URS, city ing related to the University Square parking You know what I’m talking about. engineers and others. garage; two changes in the city code dealing Shop for a new bathing suit or start The teaser on the cover says “Why we with fireworks; and a bid award (jointly with the eat more than we think.” Yup, that’s me, Vital statistics for the city that diet, tomorrow? That dreaded cities of Shaker Heights and Cleveland Heights) eating more. The book is just over 200 Previously, the finance department provided the to Karvo Paving Company for the 2011 street experience, bathing suit shopping—at pages. Wansink backs up studies with vital statistics function for the city. In the interest resurfacing program. its best, humbling. of regionalism, this function has been transferred pages of reference notes, documenting Resurfacing program First, you must come to terms with to the City of Cleveland, which will lessen the why we mindlessly eat. The first reading of an ordinance to award the the fact that bathing suit designers, burden on the finance department. Councilman For me, the grapefruit diet, protein Bullock asked if there were any fees attached to 2011 street resurfacing program to Karvo Pav- unlike industrial designers, never heard diet, cabbage soup diet, 3-day, 10-day providing this function, and the finance director ing Company jointly with Shaker Heights and of form serving function. Second, stated that there were none. Funeral directors Cleveland Heights was presented. City Engineer do you go for comfort or a bathing or any-day diet don’t work. Maybe five Joseph Ciuni said four bids were received and need to be notified of this change since they suit straight out of the Victorian era, or ten pounds go away for a while, but Karvo came in under budget at $97,600. Theirs often stop at the finance department for certifica- promising to make you look 10 pounds return they with interest. So why not tion on their way to a funeral. was the lowest and best bid, and Karvo had previously successfully completed projects for thinner? Finally, you have to look at change the way I eat? Business revolving loan program the city. yourself trying them on. Studies say we make about 200 Joe Jenkins of State Treasurer Mandel’s office Emergency operations plan My friend Joan plans bathing suit food-related decisions a day, 90 per- indicated that the state is offering a revolving cent of which we aren’t even aware of. loan program for businesses called Grow Ohio The first reading of the Cuyahoga County Emer- shopping trips better than generals that is similar to the home repair loan program. gency Operations Plan was presented. plan their military campaigns. If you And yes, my metabolism slows down It can be found on the treasurer’s website. Yard waste have to ask “why,” you are either a man when I cut back on food, to help me Rain garden Rob Jamieson, public service director, informed or swim textile free. The reality of “survive famines and barren winters” The rain garden at 2603 Ashurst Road is func- city residents that all yard waste must now be bathing suit shopping means steeling in Cleveland. tioning. Plants sowed last fall have survived and bagged or tied into manageable bundles for The final straw comes with studies pickup. yourself. You get to see, in the mirror, the spice ash is starting to bloom. The garden what time and comfort food accom- showing it isn’t the fast-food syndrome has mitigated the flooding problem caused by Pool and slide that is the culprit. Our eating behavior the Doan and Dugway brooks. More plants will Mayor Infeld stated that due to all the wet plished over the last six months. may actually be formed in the first be sown this spring. weather, the pool would not be painted until fall, Unless you spend in the three- several years of our lives, before we “Make a Difference Day” but she hopes to have the water slide painted figure range, you shop in stores with even meet a happy meal. What to do? Governmental Affairs Chairman Sue Pardee re- before summer. dressing rooms that generally don’t help ported that Oct. 22 will be “Make a Difference Intersections narrowed your self-image. I’m talking about the Hmmm. Day” when residents will have the opportunity to Councilman Steven Bullock reported that industrial florescent lights—the same do service learning projects. The first meeting to the intersection of Belvoir and Washington ones you find in car repair shops. Anita Kazarian, a marketing professional, discuss the project will be in late May. boulevards would be narrowed to enhance The cubicle is cramped, not and founder of Noah’s Landing, LLC, is a pedestrian safety and that the intersections at LWV Observer: Lana Cowell. longtime resident of University Heights. Miramar and Washington are in the funding always carpeted, and comes with a mirror inches from your nose. Some Contact her at [email protected]. MAY 2, 2011 queue for the same treatment, but would not Vice Mayor Frankie Goldberg and council take place this year. members Susan Pardee and Steven Sims were LWV Observers: Carol Gibson and Pat Solomon. (216) 392-1335 [email protected] excused. Pool passes Mayor Infeld reminded residents that they can Look for earlier, and often expanded, post- Class 1 Pavers & Remodelers now purchase pool passes online or buy them ings of meeting summaries online at www. at city hall beginning one week before the heightsobserver.org. Specializing in Residential Driveways pool opens. These meeting summaries are abstract- Asphalt & Concrete, Sealcoating Cedar/Taylor merchants ed from LWV observers’ written reports. The Save 30%! Discount on Kitchens, Bathrooms, Siding, Cedar/Taylor merchants are meeting with the summaries have been edited and prepared Basement Waterproofing & Windows goal of devising ways to distinctively brand the by Anne McFarland, Charlene Morse Ask for Gary or Mike 1481 Warrensville Ctr. Rd. shopping district. and Maryann Barnes. To receive e-mail (216) 392-1335 Financing Available www.class1pavers.com Police retirees honored postings of full reports, send an e-mail to Police Chief Gary Stehlik was honored on his [email protected] or join through retirement after 37 years of service to the city, Google groups using “lwv-chuh observer Easy to sell the last 14 years of which were as police chief. reports” as a search phrase. These reports contain member ob- phoenix coffee Healthy Deputy Police Chief James Rohal was also hon- phoenix coffee ored for his 41 years of service to the city. Both servation and selected highlights of public (no sugar, fat or salt!) were made honorary citizens of the city and meetings and are not official statements each received personalized plaques. of the Heights Chapter of the League of Supports our local Women Voters Cuyahoga Area. This dis- fundraising economy McDonald’s development plans claimer must accompany any redistribution The planning commission recommended that of these reports. earn money for your school or Earn over $1,000 council approve the final proposed develop- of profit for community group by selling our locally your group roasted coffee & loose leaf tea. For more info visit phoenixcoffee.com/ fundraising EGGS•C HEESE•BAKERY Or call LOCAL PRODUCE PL ANT S•SPICES•COFFEE•CRAFT S DIRECT FROM FARM SEE OUR COMMUNIT Y GARDEN! 216.522.9744

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Heights Observer June 1, 2011 4 www.heightsobserver.org cleveland heights news Planting seeds to Cleveland Heights homeowners receive grow new uses for old Coventry School historic preservation award

Sarah Wean Deanna Bremer Fisher 1923 for William Stouder Thompson, massive slate roof, replacing missing was owned by the John Kennedy Lynch tiles and copper flashing and repairing The Cleveland Heights-University Heights The Cleveland Restoration Society family from 1963 until 2009. copper downspouts, and restored the City School District hosted a meeting (CRS) and the American Institute of Addie Hayek owns Creative In- stucco exterior walls. The couple also on May 5 to update the Coventry Village Architects-Cleveland honored Salim novations, a design firm, and managed restored the landscaping to the original neighborhood about current leasing activ- and Addie Hayek, the owners of 2900 the entire renovation, which included 1930s plan, which was designed by land- ity in the former Coventry School building, Fairmount Boulevard, for the restora- the remodeling of eight bathrooms scape architect A. D. Taylor. which has seen little use since the school’s tion of their Tudor Revival home at and a large kitchen. CRS staff provided The home was featured in last year’s closing in 2007. Steve Shergalis, business the annual Celebration of Preservation technical assistance. Heritage Home Tour and will be the site manager for the school district, announced awards ceremony on May 10. Energy-efficient improvements in- of a CRS benefit this summer. For more that 40,000 of the 60,000 square feet of The Hayeks were recognized for clude a geothermal heating and cooling information, visit www.clevelandrestora- available space will be occupied for at least their attention to detail and renova- system, new plumbing and electrical tion.org. the next 12 months by three well-established tions that reflect the home’s history and systems, and interior storm windows community service organizations. architecture. They are the third owners that preserve the architectural integrity Deanna Bremer Fisher is executive direc- The 105-year-old Cleveland Sight of the house. The mansion, designed of the facade. tor of FutureHeights and publisher of the Center is renovating its Cleveland facility by Phillip Lindsley Small and built in The Hayeks renovated the home’s Heights Observer. and, while located at the Coventry School, will open its preschool classroom to both futureheights continued from page 1 blind and sighted children, and an adult Cleveland Heights’ Newest Donegal Agency! Bremer Fisher. “We believe all citizens employment phone training center. The Donegal Insurance Group is pleased to recognize can contribute energy, ideas and action center is also moving 109 employees and Keller National in Cleveland Heights as a new to building a better community, and we Donegal agency appointment. a retail store to the Rockefeller Pointe work to provide the tools to make this building on Mayfield Road in Cleveland Together, Keller National and Donegal will provide a reality.” insurance solutions for individuals and businesses Heights. The center has a few openings FutureHeights will also induct new in Cuyahoga County. Stop by in the preschool for sighted children, and or call Keller National and members into the Innovator’s Circle. is seeking volunteers from the community. discover the value of “The circle honors the vision and ef- Donegal for your auto, For information, call 216-791-8118. home and business forts of people—active and dedicated The award-winning Ensemble The- insurance. citizens—who give their vision and atre, established in Cleveland Heights in Call David Keller Today! energy to making our communities the 1979, has had its base of operations at the best they can be,” said Bremer Fisher. Coventry School since early this year, and Although the event is free, capacity expects to extend its lease for another year • • • • Auto • Home • Business is limited and FutureHeights requests this August. Its programming includes that participants RSVP at http://future- Rockefeller Center, Suite 203 producing plays, theater education in the heightsannualmeeting.eventbrite.com. To 3109 Mayfield Road • Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 schools, and a series of theatrical workshops learn more visit www.futureheights.org www.KellerNational.com beginning this spring. Volunteer opportu- 216-965-0646 or call 216-320-1423. nities are available. For information, call 216-321-2930. Richard Stewart is a member of the Future- The district is in discussions with Heights board of directors and owner of Di- Andrew Auten, owner of The Open Of- gizoom Media, a video production company fice, a shared collaborative workspace for based in Cleveland Heights. small and home-based businesses. Auten is looking to set up shop in Coventry Vil- lage. Because it is not an education-based Advertise organization, it will need a variance from the City of Cleveland Heights to operate in the Heights on the premises. Observer Sarah Wean is a Coventry Village resident. www.heightsobserver.org Give your yard and garden a makeover this spring! 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Heights Observer June 1, 2011 5 www.heightsobserver.org community news CureSearch for Children’s Cancer Walk is June 4

Stephen Crowley

My wife, Cynthia Van Lenten, and I are walking in memory of our daughter,

Olivia, who lost her struggle with cancer n crowley of stephe courtesy when she was ten years old. Krissy and Olivia Crowley, daughter of Steve Crowley and Mark Gallagher are walking with their Cynthia Van Lenten. four-year-old son, Austin, who is a cancer increased dramatically, rising from 30 survivor. Stacey Brown-Walker and Chris percent to 78 percent in the last three Walker are walking with Caleb, age six, decades. Yet 74 percent of childhood who is also a survivor. cancer survivors suffer from chronic These and other Cleveland Heights illnesses, and 40 percent from life- residents will be walking on June 4 threatening illnesses. because they have learned that, while The CureSearch Walk funds the re- cancer is a horrible disease at any age, search of the Children’s Oncology Group childhood cancer is particularly under- (COG), which is the world’s largest child- funded. Consider the following: hood cancer research collaborative, treat- courtesy of carlacourtesy bailey • Besides accidents, cancer is the leading Heights High sophomore Janine Walker will spend her junior year in Thailand as an AFS exchange student. ing more than 90 percent of children with cause of death in children, more than cancer at over 200 hospitals in the United all other childhood diseases combined. States, including Rainbow Babies, the Sending my daughter to study abroad yet drug companies invest next to Cleveland Clinic, and Akron Children’s nothing on research into children’s Hospital. Instead of focusing on one cancer; they simply see no profit in hospital, COG sets up the clinical trials Carla Bailey family forever. it. As an article in the Plain Dealer re- and the standards of care used throughout AFS is one of the largest and most cently reported, certain drugs needed the country. This collaborative work is the While most Heights High Students reputable student exchange organiza- to treat childhood leukemia are in main reason that cure rates have increased are anxiously awaiting the last day of tions in the world. For more than 60 short supply because drug companies so significantly. Yet, COG continues to school, my daughter Janine Walker will years, AFS has provided safe and secure don’t find them profitable. struggle for funding. be packing her bags to begin 11th grade experiences abroad for thousands of • The National Cancer Institute (NCI) The CureSearch Walk will take in Thailand. Three years ago, her older students, so I am not worried about her spends less than four percent of its place on Saturday June 4, from 9–11 brother went to Japan for a summer safety—but I will miss Janine dearly. budget on children’s cancer, and its a.m., at Wade Oval in University Circle. exchange. She remembers how much Supporting my daughter in her goal budget is being cut by ten percent. To register or contribute, go to www. he enjoyed it and how it broadened his of exploring the wonders of the world • Half of all chemotherapies for children curesearchwalk.org/neohio. Contributions view of the world. through intercultural exchange might are more than 25 years old. are welcome even after June 4. Since then, she has had a goal of be the greatest gift that I can give her. • The incidence of pediatric cancer has in- going abroad—and not just for a sum- creased by about 30 percent over the last Stephen Crowley is a longtime Heights resident. mer, but for the school year. As I con- Carla Bailey is a parent volunteer at Heights several years, and no one knows why. He and his wife, are the cochairs of Cleveland’s templated the duration and cost of the High and with AFS, and Janine’s mom. • The good news is that cure rates have CureSearch for Children’s Cancer Walk. program, I spoke with other Heights parents who had sent their kids abroad The cost of an AFS one-year study in high school. They all said it was a abroad program is about $12,000. wonderful experience for their kids. Janine has raised nearly $8,000 and Cleveland Skating Club As we filled out forms and discussed is working to raise the remaining the details, I was even more convinced Social and Sporting Club Since 1937 $4,000. A Family & Friends Benefit that living and studying abroad will Fundraiser for Janine’s Thailand Edu- prepare Janine for life in many unique cation will be held Saturday, June 18, and educational ways. This isn’t just a 4:30–8:30 p.m., at the home of Van- vacation to a foreign country, but a life- Join now for as little as $100 per essa Whiting, 2489 Coventry Road. enriching experience that will help Jan- month for single membership For information, call 323-215-8774. ine learn about herself and the world. Donations can also be made directly Our exposure to exchange students • 11 outdoor Tennis Courts, 4 indoor to Janine’s AFS account through her began when our family started volun- Tennis Courts blog at Janine-in-Thailand.blogspot. teering with American Field Service • 5 Pros clinics and private lessons com. (AFS). We have hosted or been a liaison and special Junior membership AFS is currently in its 2011-12 family for students from Saudi Arabia, • 4 outdoor heated Paddle Courts hosting season. for families interest- Kenya, the Philippines, Malaysia, Ger- • 2 indoor Squash courts-clinics and ed in hosting a student, or sending a many and Mozambique. These young private lessons child abroad for a summer, semester, people have surrounded us with new cul- • Great Fitness Center or year, contact Krista Hawthorne at tures, religions, and foods from around • Olympic indoor pool- learn to 216-554-0520. the world, and they will be a part of our swim, water exercise classes, and great swim team • Part of USA-USC, Hockey program from Mite C to Bantams 1763 Coventry Road • Figure Skating, learn to skate, synchronize team, theater on Ice Team Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44118 www.pacificeastcoventry.com • Private and group lessons • Special Curling membership Mon. - Thurs. :11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. • Two eateries to choose from Fri.: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. Sat.: 12 p.m. - 3 p.m., 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. • Pro Shop Sun.: 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. • Day Care Center • Banquet and meeting space up to 300 guests Japanese Restaurant Tel: 216-320-2302 Fax: 216-320-2306 • Summer Camps-Multi Sport, Tennis, Squash, Figure Skating, Hockey and Summer Swim Team HeigHts frame & art Call Now. Ask for general manager Custom Picture framing Joseph Gallo 216-791-2800 ext 214 E-mail [email protected] or 2252 Warrensville Center road University Heights, Ohio 44118 [email protected] 216-371-3711 www.clevelandskatingclub.org [email protected] 2500 Kemper Rd Shaker Hts 44120 • 216-791-2800

Heights Observer June 1, 2011 6 www.heightsobserver.org community news

Volunteer opportunities at the Heights Libraries facilities continued from page 1 great numbers at the meeting, the qual- ity of questions was exceptional. I fully more than $226 million. expect larger numbers at community Sheryl Banks Lee Road summer lunch program According to the Ohio Schools meetings, if and when the school board The Lee Road Library seeks volunteers Facilities Commission (OSFC), which moves to do something officially,” Tabor Summer is a great time to get involved to help serve free cold lunches from examined the CU-UH district’s facili- stated in an e-mail. in your community, and Heights Li- the Cleveland Foodbank to anyone ties, it is feasible to reduce the 1,300,000 “Cleveland Heights is a very smart braries offer a variety of fun volunteer under the age of 18. The summer square feet of facilities the district has to and engaged community, particularly opportunities all summer long. “Vol- lunch program starts on June 13, and about 800,000 square feet. The OSFC around issues related to schools.” unteering is an incredibly rewarding runs Mondays through Fridays, from has suggested that the district imple- Posch emphasized that it was im- experience,” said Heather Howiler, noon–1 p.m. ment structural changes gradually, over portant to the school district to hold Heights Libraries volunteer coordi- the next five to seven years, to minimize Gardening volunteers the forum, regardless of the number nator. “It’s also a good way to build learning disruptions. The library needs volunteers to help weed, of aspects of the project that were still your resume if you are unemployed, The subcommittee emphasized that plant and maintain the flower beds at each unresolved. “Early on, the district made or to fulfill high school volunteer work its findings and those of the OSFC were building this spring and summer. a commitment that they were going to hours.” recommendations only, and that it would open this to the public,” Posch said. If you are interested in volunteering take significantly more input from teach- Noble’s early literacy playroom Angee Shaker, director of commu- at the library, contact Heather Howi- ers, students, professionals and residents The Noble Neighborhood Library is nications and community engagement, ler at 216-932-3600, ext. 287, or e-mail to reach a final conclusion on a future looking for volunteers experienced is confident that the public will become [email protected]. course of action for the district. in preschool development/literacy to increasingly involved in the project as “We received a lot of great feedback interact with caregivers in carrying out Sheryl Banks is the marketing and community time progresses. “The committee is in that evening,” said committee member literacy-based activities in the newly relations manager for the Cleveland Heights- the middle of a long process, and we’ve Jim Posch. “I think this is more of a created literacy playroom. University Heights Public Library. publicized that process extensively. We learning experience, we’ve learned a lot have approximately 50 school facility in these committees.” committee members, who have rolled up Cleveland Heights resident attempts to shatter Dave Tabor of the finance subcom- their sleeves and given countless hours to TM mittee reported that little risk was found Guinness world record on June 17 studying, touring, discussing and brain- in the prospect of participating in the storming about our current and future OSFC’s Expedited Local Partnership Dana finley the endeavor,” he said. “Presser agreed facility needs,” she stated in an e-mail. Program. With this initiative, the state to help us out with promotions and mar- “This is hard and sometimes very tedious could fund up to 14 percent of renova- Cleveland Heights resident Keith Curry keting. I also contacted Robert Kopis work that not everyone is willing, or has tions undertaken by the district. Unfortu- is attempting to set a Guinness World of PizzaBogo and he agreed to provide the time, to participate in. Regardless, nately, CH-UH is currently number 524 Record™ for the most people dressed up discount food to all who attend.” we had a number of passionate residents out of 612 districts on the priority list to like video game characters in one place. Participants should note that there attend, and we have documented their receive funding from the program. “The idea came up when my friend, are some regulations as to which video questions and concerns, which will help James Seaman presented his opin- Chris Myrick, and I were watching the game characters can be impersonated. us as we move forward.” ions regarding the district’s potential MTV reality show Rob Dyrdek’s “Fantasy For example, Sonic the Hedgehog first One person inquired about the fate of to be restructured as a 21st-Century Factory” and it was the episode where he appeared in a video game in 1991, before existing buildings, if the district were to Learning School. Citing a long list of broke like 20 world records. It sparked its television and comc book appearances. move toward renovating or building new 21st-century learning principles, Seaman my curiosity, so I went to the Guinness Therefore, Sonic qualifies for the attempt. structures. “We are committed to preserv- drew parallels between CH-UH and World Records™ website and tried to Batman was first featured as a comic book ing the original cores of buildings,” said other 21st-Century Learning Schools find an easy record to beat,” Curry said. character in 1939, prior to appearances as Stephen Shergalis, director of business throughout the world, by using side-by- “I found this one and I filled out the a video game character in 1986, so Batman services for the district. He explained that side examples that included images from required form. After about six weeks, I does not qualify as a character that can be the committee wanted to recognize the schools in Florida, Australia and Japan. had completely forgotten that I had even portrayed as part of the record. architectural integrity that many of CH- The final 45 minutes of the meet- done it when I got an e-mail from Guin- Those interested in helping Curry’s UH’s school buildings have, and said that ing were devoted to questions and ness with a record breakers pack.” attempt to break the record should plan they have also explored the possibility of comments by the parents, residents The previous Guinness World Record™ to attend the gathering scheduled for repurposing sites for future use. and faculty. Committee leaders tried to for the most people dressed up like video June 17 at the Coventry P. E.A.C.E. Park Posch recognizes the sensitivity gauge the attitudes on the issues of the game characters in one place is 376 people. from 2 to 5 p.m. surrounding the school issues the com- 16 people who attended the meeting by Curry quickly enlisted local busi- munity is facing. “I think there was a lot using remote-controlled survey-takers. nesses to help him in his quest to break Observer intern Dana Finley, editor-in- of anxiety when the school district closed As one resident later pointed out, in a the record. “The first thing I did was chief of Shaker Heights High School’s news- an elementary school,” he said. “I’m really comment directed toward the commit- contact Steve Presser from Big Fun to paper, The Shakerite, will attend Boston hopeful that the district is being extra tee, 16 people was hardly a legitimate see if he’d be interested in assisting us in University in the fall to study journalism. cautious and the committee is, too.” sample population of the cities of Cleve- “The next important step will be council continued from page 1 land Heights and University Heights. for the committee to reconvene on June Posch wasn’t fazed by the low Davis, Mary A. Dunbar, Rob Fischer, cil hope to discuss the finalists in an 2, and digest the feedback. We have to turnout Thursday night. “I think we, as Michael Gaynier, Robert Gross, Ceric upcoming work session and make an develop our set of recommendations for a committee, did a good job of report- D. T. Jackson, Sr., Edgar A. Mitchell, appointment in time for the June 6 or a presentation to the school board. I’m ing,” he said. “Unfortunately, what we Ellen M. Roth, Jason Stein, Anthony June 20 council meeting. sure the community input will play a role found out isn’t enough to satisfy the M. Stevenson, Keba Sylla, Benny Tal, in our recommendations,” Tabor stated. community at this point.” Darlene B. White, and Kevin A. Ziegler. Observer intern Dana Finley, editor-in- The school facilities committee “There were a lot of people at the Many of these individuals are already chief of Shaker Heights High School’s news- will present its findings to the CH-UH prior meeting at Monticello,” he said. involved in community programs. paper, The Shakerite, will attend Boston Board of Education on June 5. For more “I didn’t really expect a lot of people Kelley said that he and the coun- University in the fall to study journalism. information, visit www.chuh.org. [at the May 12 meeting]. before we have definitive options, there’s not a lot for Observer intern Dana Finley, editor-in- the community to comment on.” MAC’S MARATHON chief of Shaker Heights High School’s news- Tabor was similarly optimistic Same location since 1977 paper, The Shakerite, will attend Boston Scott Berman Ken Block about future community participation University in the fall to study journalism. 2 Certified ASE Master Technicians in the project. “While there weren’t All Types of Mechanical Repairs Domestic & Import, Light Truck & Auto Repair Fun times at Noble Road Presbyterian Church Licensed E Check Repair Facility Marcelo Atanasio day night dances. In addition, there is a Ohio Lottery We Recycle monthly community meal every fourth Noble Road Presbyterian Church con- Sunday. tinues its annual Strawberry Festival Mi casa es su casa! Come on down 1828 S. Taylor Road, Cleveland Heights tradition on June 10, from 6–8 p.m. to NRPC, 2780 Noble Road, for fun 216.321.3113 The Rummage Extravaganza will be times. Call 216-382-0660 or e-mail nrpc@ [email protected] back July 9. The church is seeking craft sbcglobal.net for more information. vendors to enhance this event. A $20 fee Reliable. Honest. 100% Satisfaction. is requested. Marcelo Atanasio is a longtime resident of After Labor Day, the church will Windshield Wiper. BUY ONE/GET ONE FREE with ad Cleveland Heights and an active member of restart its pancake breakfasts and Satur- Noble Road Presbyterian Church. Heights Observer June 1, 2011 7 www.heightsobserver.org cleveland heights news Bicycle parking in Cleveland Heights Cleveland Heights Nick Matthew Bar and Grill. • Cedar Fairmount shopping district Take out that bicycle, fill up the tires, also has three bike racks: in front of City Council and save money this summer by using Dave’s Market, outside Aladdin’s Eat- one of Cleveland Heights’s many bicycle ery, and behind Starbucks. meeting highlights parking racks. Bicycle parking is free, • Some bike racks are better than others. APRIL 20, 2011 Pedestrian signal improvements easy to use and located throughout The best are those that allow users to Vice Mayor Phyllis L. Evans was excused. Council authorized a contract with CT Consultants Cleveland Heights. With the average secure both the frame and wheel of Bluestone Mayfield development changes Inc. for professional services for the Mayfield/ American spending more than $8,000 their bikes. The worst are “grill” racks, Council authorized modifications to the agreement Lee Pedestrian Signalization Improvement Proj- ect. Necessitated by the temporary move of the a year on gasoline, insurance, and other which can damage bicycle wheels and with GFO LLC for redevelopment of the property at 3505 Mayfield Road (the former Jewish Com- Cleveland Sight Center’s offices to the Rockefeller costs related to automobile use, bicycle provide the least amount of security. Pointe Building (while its East 101 Street facility parking is a great way to save money, and munity Center property). One change would CHBC has volunteers working to enable the city to elect the “recapture option” is undergoing renovation), the improvements will improve your fitness at the same time. improve Cleveland Heights’s bicycle for reimbursement of home loan funds for some include an audible pedestrian accessible signal The Cleveland Heights Bicycle parking. Laura Marks, an advocate who of the units. The other change allows the replace- and curb ramp upgrades. The fees for these Coalition (CHBC) surveyed the com- successfully encouraged Cleveland State ment of a 23-unit loft building with 16 three-story services are not to exceed $8,500. munity’s bicycle parking racks, and University to install the yellow racks on townhouses, as approved by the city’s planning City commended for lawn chemicals here’s what it found: Euclid Avenue, is now collaborating with commission and architectural board of review. restrictions on municipal properties At the Cleveland Botanical Garden on April • Cleveland Heights has more than 50 John Foreman, building manager for the HUD homeless prevention program Council amended a previous resolution that au- 29, Cleveland Heights received a commenda- bicycle parking racks. CH-UH elementary schools. Ian Hoff- tion for being the first city in the United States • Lee Road was the most bicycle-friendly thorized an agreement with Cuyahoga County man, CHBC treasurer, is working with for the expenditure of funds received by the city to ban the use of pesticides and herbicides on road, with 25 parking racks in just 1.4 Coventry Village to find ways to improve from the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban municipal properties as well as around libraries, miles of roadway. That’s an average of the shopping area’s bicycle parking. Development under the Homeless Prevention and public schools, and day care centers. Cleveland Heights resident Laurel Hopwood played a a parking rack every 300 feet! To see maps of available bicycle park- Rapid Re-Housing Program. That agreement pro- vided $699,894 for homeless prevention services catalytic role in this ban, which passed in 1995. • Severance Shopping Center has a total ing in Cleveland Heights, or to volunteer Cleveland Heights is still the only city in Cuya- of eight bike racks. to qualified Cleveland Heights residents. Due to to make the city more bicycle friendly, less-than-expected demand, the city has spent only hoga County that has such restrictions. • Coventry Village has three bike racks: visit www.bikesintheheights.org. $136,000, benefiting 67 households, or about Sale of city-owned properties outside Coventry Village Library, out- 200 persons. The amended agreement ensures Council approved the sale of three rehabbed side Chipotle Mexican Grill, and be- Nicholas Matthew is an officer and cofounder that in administering the remaining program funds, properties owned by the city. tween the parking garage and Panini’s of the Cleveland Heights Bicycle Coalition. the county will give priority to Cleveland Heights The first two were rehabilitated with funds residents, but may also provide homeless preven- from the federal Neighborhood Stabilization demolition continued from page 1 tion services to residents in other area communities. Program (NSP). The approval also includes A minimum of 20 percent of the remaining funds down-payment assistance funding for the pur- memo to Downey, Wagner wrote: “The engineering work and a new garage, with must be used for Cleveland Heights residents. chasers of the properties. The properties and owner has allowed a supposed workman needed repairs estimated at more than Cleveland Sight Center at Coventry School sale prices are: to stay in the house even though the $100,000. Under the city’s Revolving Loan Fund program, • 1062 Allston Road, $130,000, with down- payment assistance of $11,500. water has been turned off. The repair The single-family home at 3563 council authorized a loan agreement with the Cleveland Sight Center to help establish an • 3994 Delmore Road, sale price $84,900, of the property, combined with the back Northcliffe Road is owned by William with down-payment assistance of $5,000. taxes that have accumulated, make the education and training center at the former Holmes, who is currently incarcerated, Coventry Elementary School site. The $15,000 The NSP helps cities address the rehabilita- financial feasibility of the rehabilitation according to the city. Wagner’s memo loan, with zero percent interest, will come from tion of vacant, abandoned and foreclosed proper- prohibitive.” stated: “The house continues to dete- block grant funds, not the city’s general fund. ties. These two sales bring the Cleveland Heights The two-family house at 1724 riorate, and poses a blighting influence total of properties sold under this program to five. Duplex zoning The money received goes back into the NSP to ad- Coventry is currently owned by XBY on the neighborhood. Repairs to the Council amended an ordinance to allow the dress other problem properties in the community. LLC of Austin, Texas. It requires major property far exceed the value.” issuance of building permits for the reconstruc- The third property, 3132–3134 East Derby- tion/repair of some of the city’s two-family As a result of the council’s action, shire Road, $129,900, was rehabbed under a the city was to issue an order of nuisance homes if they are destroyed or damaged in similar program, the East Derbyshire Neighbor- excess of 60 percent of their market value. The abatement to each property owner on hood Improvement Program, which is funded by measure applies to a small number of two-family Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) May 23, giving the owner 30 days to homes that, early in the zoning of the city, were funds. make itemized repairs. If the owners fail allowed to be constructed in single-family zones. County emergency operations plan Bring in this ad to comply, the city will begin the process Potential purchasers of these properties have difficulty obtaining financing because lenders Council adopted the amended Cuyahoga and receive to demolish the structures. County Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), $5 off your next see too much risk. Council Member Mark “The city pays for the demolition Tumeo, who voted no, objected to overriding which establishes official policies, strategies, and yoga purchase! and then we file a tax lien on the prop- the building code so that banks can be assured planning assumptions for disaster preparedness, response, recover, and mitigation. This plan OB erty to recoup the funds,” Wagner said. that double-family homes can be rebuilt in areas replaces the Cuyahoga Emergency Incident One coupon per purchase. Offer valid only on regularly He added that Cleveland Heights was not zoned for that purpose. priced classes. May not be combined with other discounts. Management System that was adopted by EXPIRES 12/31/11 one of the first cities in the country to LWV observers: Katherine Solender and Patricia Cleveland Heights in 1988. The new plan is practice this kind of cost recovery. Solomon. countywide in scope and includes coordination with all 59 municipalities. Highlights of the plan MAY 2, 2011 Our Students Say: Observer intern Dana Finley, editor-in- will be published in the June issue of Focus. “No hype, no lycra." All council members were present. chief of Shaker Heights High School’s news- LWV observers: Katherine Solender and Kirsten “Life-transforming!" paper, The Shakerite, will attend Boston New signatories for specific accounts Karakul. As needed by the recent hiring of Tom Raguz as Now in our 14th year! University in the fall to study journalism. assistant finance director, council authorized desig- Look for earlier and often expanded postings of meeting summaries online nated city employees to be signatories on specified 2319 Lee Rd. 216-371-9760 at www.heightsobserver.org. www.atmacenter.com [email protected] city accounts at various financial institutions. See disclaimer on page 4.

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Heights Observer June 1, 2011 8 www.heightsobserver.org

community news Family Connections announces the 2011 Carolyn Grossman Award winner

Ellen Barrett She delivers parenting and teacher training sessions, and has provided Annie Lopez, executive director of the training to more than 300 early child- Redstone Schoolhouse, was presented hood teachers through the Greater with the 2011 Carolyn Grossman Award Cleveland Literacy Cooperative. She by Family Connections of Northeast also provides program development Ohio (formerly Heights Parent Center) consultation to early childhood and at the organization’s Fiesta benefit on family literacy providers throughout May 7 at Hiram House Camp. Northeast Ohio. of hrrc courtesy Home Repair Resource Center is a nonprofit organization located at 2520 Noble Road. Lopez holds a doctorate in devel- Lopez founded, and continues to opmental and educational psychol- supervise, the Redstone Schoolhouse in After 40 years, HRRC planning for sustainability ogy from Teachers College, Columbia Ashtabula County. This child develop- University. Lopez has been actively ment center provides needed services in Kathryn Lad its assistance has made. Its financial involved in both research and applied a low-income rural area, including spe- settings, and her work has focused on programs, counseling, and educational cialized autism services. In addition to This year marks the 40th anniversary breaking the cycle of poverty through opportunities emphasize self-help and offering high-quality educational services of Home Repair Resource Center. From education. She ties this focus in part to enable families to maintain not only to children up to 12 years of age, Lopez its inception, its mission has been to her personal experiences growing up in the physical structure of their homes, provides a parenting lending library and maintain and strengthen the houses of the South Bronx neighborhood of New but also a positive living environment. monthly family literacy events. Cleveland Heights, to support the com- York City, after emigrating from Cuba as Clients grow in self-esteem as they learn The Carolyn Grossman Award honors munity’s rich diversity. a child. When she received the Carolyn to manage the process of contracting individuals who demonstrate an extraor- HRRC began when concerned mem- Grossman award, Lopez acknowledged for home repairs, as they pay back their dinary commitment to strengthening bers of Forest Hill Church gathered to that her strong family and their focus loans, and as they gain experience work- families and preparing young children for assess the fair housing needs of Cleveland on education were the foundations on ing with tools and repair techniques. In success in school and in life. Recognizing Heights, and discuss whether a church which she has built her career and life’s the larger community, HRRC’s efforts that parents often need support in mak- committed to open housing and racial work. have instilled pride in neighborhoods ing the most of their children’s critical harmony could do anything to meet those “My family spoke only Spanish and afforded volunteers and donors an early years, Carolyn Grossman cofounded needs. In a time of anger and fright— when we arrived from Cuba,” she said. opportunity to make a difference at the Heights Parent Center in 1982. Now especially fear of deteriorating neighbor- “Isolated and alone, my parents relied on local level. known as Family Connections, the organi- hoods and declining housing values—the the resources around them to make sure In recent months, HRRC’s board zation provides education, resources and group wondered, whether, if the issue were we were able to access a good education. and staff have been planning the orga- support for families with children, from defined as maintaining quality housing, and All families deserve this access.” nization’s course for the future. With birth through elementary school. Gross- not racial integration, people of all persua- Lopez developed and operated a strategic planning grant from the man’s children established this award in sions and attitudes might become involved. several successful family literacy pro- Cleveland Foundation, HRRC analyzed her honor in April 2003. These efforts led to the birth of HRRC grams, including the Waltersville Family its services and the resources it takes to (originally FHC Housing Corporation) in provide them. With fewer public funds Resource Center in Bridgeport, Conn. Ellen Barrett is a family support specialist and September 1971. available to support programs in the and Even Start family literacy program parent educator at Family Connections and a Over the years, HRRC expanded future, HRRC has developed a compre- in Cleveland Heights. lifelong resident of Cleveland Heights. its programs, moved several times and hensive fund development strategy to changed its name to more accurately ensure the future of the organization. Fieldman leads MedWish International’s reflect its mission. The organization built The organization has also begun to fundraising efforts, Band-Aid Bash a broad base of support and became the envision new ways of carrying out its primary advocate for housing in Cleve- mission, and is exploring partnerships land Heights. Many financial institutions, Mary Patton event, which was held on Saturday, May with other organizations that could businesses and organizations, as well as 21. MedWish transformed its industrial expand its impact on the community. hundreds of individuals partnered with Orlando native Matthew Fieldman is warehouse at 17325 Euclid Ave. in Cleve- Everyone at HRRC is excited HRRC to meet shared goals. planting roots in Northeast Ohio—spe- land into a trendy, New York City-style about these possibilities. HRRC invites Grants from the Cleveland Foun- cifically in University Heights. With an nightclub. Guests were surrounded by community residents to mark its 40th dation helped establish the Challenge undergraduate degree from University of 40,000 square feet of medical surplus anniversary at the annual meeting on Fund, and the George Gund Foundation Florida and an MBA from George Wash- waiting to be shipped overseas. Expected Wednesday, June 8, at 7 p.m. at the provided funding for the Project Repair ington University, Fieldman began his to raise more than $200,000 to support Cleveland Heights Community Center. program and its tool loan. Commu- fundraising career with the Jewish Fed- its mission of “saving lives and saving The keynote speaker will be Chuck nity Development Block Grant funding eration of Greater Washington. While the environment,” the event featured a Miller of Doty & Miller Architects, who through the City of Cleveland Heights en- looking to expand his work, a mentor live video conference with an interna- will address “Housing Issues for the 21st abled HRRC to offer financial assistance suggested that he pursue an opportunity tional hospital. Spice of Life, a catering Century: Looking Forward.” celebrate to help homeowners repair their homes. with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. company dedicated to using only local, HRRC’s role in “keeping Cleveland Through these programs, more than $14 He fell in love with the city. sustainable foods, provided international Heights in good repair.” million has been invested in Cleveland Following several years at the Fed- foods. WKYC’s Mark Nolan served as Heights houses. eration and various consulting projects, the guest emcee. Kathryn Lad is the executive director of HRRC has seen the difference Fieldman discovered MedWish Interna- fieldman and his wife Alyson, have Home Repair Resource Center. tional and landed a position as director settled in University Heights. They have of development for the Cleveland-based two daughters—Eliana, a toddler, and nonprofit organization. Liona, an infant. “When we were looking H APPy FATHER’ S DAy MedWish recovers surplus medical to buy a home, we wanted a place where from your neighborhood barber shop supplies designated for disposal by 38 we could walk to restaurants and coffee hospitals throughout Northeast Ohio shops, and we ended up at Fairmount REDISCOVER and redistributes them to developing Circle,” said fieldman. “We enjoy tak- nations where they can save lives and ing our daughters for walks around JCU, The Art of Barbering promote better health. eating dinner at Pizzazz, and playing at QUINTANA’ S $5.00 OFF ANy “In 2010, MedWish grew 47 percent the local parks. University Heights offers B A R B E R and served 54 countries around the a great quality of life.” & D R E A M S P A HAIR SERvICE world,” fieldman said. “With ten years fieldman welcomes financial support 216.321.7889 • 216.421.8380 Hours: Tues 8 am - 8 pm, experience in fundraising, I’ve been for MedWish, and also seeks individuals 2200 South Taylor Rd Wed 8 am - 8 pm, lucky to find a growing organization that and groups to help sort medical supplies at Cleveland Hts, OH 44118 Thurs 8 am - 8 pm, offers an international flavor and has so the MedWish warehouse during the week quintanasbarbershop.com Fri 8 am - 6 pm much potential. With a sustainability- and on most Saturdays. For more informa- or dreamspainc.com Sat 8 am - 4 pm focused mission, we’re ready to take tion on MedWish, visit www.medwish.org. MedWish to the next level.” $25.00 OFF ANy MASSAgE One of fieldman’s main respon- Mary Patton is a University Heights resident sibilities is to oversee Band-Aid Bash, and public relations consultant. MedWish A Luxurious Massage or any Facial the organization’s annual fundraising is a client. Heights Observer June 1, 2011 9 www.heightsobserver.org community news Spring into action with home repairs

Allison Urbanek right ballpark. • For major repairs, check out financing Spring is my favorite time of year. The options through local banks and agen- grass is green, flowers and trees are cies, such as HRRC and Cleveland blooming, and Mother Nature is com- Restoration Society, to help make the ing out of hibernation. It is fantastic— repair more affordable. until you do that first real walk around • For do-it-yourself jobs that require tools the house. Those rose-colored glasses that you may not own, consider renting quickly get put back into their case, and instead of buying. there are a few places reality sets in. You begin to notice the that rent tools. See if you qualify for wear and tear the harsh winter weather HRRC’s tool loan program. o n i T hayer has had on your home. HRRC offers a resource library with This is when the pen and paper contractor evaluations and handouts come out, and I begin to prepare my that will help make contracting for of T courtesy to-do lists. It is very easy to become a repair easier. Instructional DVDs, Last year’s manager, Tracie Zamiska, and her mother, Karen, tending tables in September 2010. overwhelmed, but there is help out videos and workshops are available for there for you. DIYers who want a refresher on specific Cleveland Heights City Fresh harvests local Here are some important tips: repairs. fruits, veggies, and community • Analyze your repair needs and make Stop by HRRC to help take some a list focusing on the most important of the stress off of your “honey-do” list. Toni Thayer Volunteer Bethany Dare was also repairs first. Then get ready to put your rose-colored a customer before becoming involved • Research your repairs. Find out what glasses back on, grab a glass of lemonade The all-volunteer crew of the Coventry with the Fresh Stop. “We’d been getting needs to be done, how it should be and enjoy the summer. Fresh Stop is gearing up to begin distrib- our vegetables almost exclusively at the done, and what can go wrong. uting farm fresh fruits and vegetables farmers’ market or directly from some • Get several bids. Home Repair Re- Allison Urbanek is the financial programs on the lawn next to the Coventry Amish near Middlefield for at least source Center (HRRC) recommends coordinator at Home Repair Resource Center Village Library on June 14. Part of the a solid year when we started actively two to three bids per repair. If the and enjoys working one-on-one with residents City Fresh Community Supported Ag- looking into CSAs with a pick-up near prices are comparable, you are in the to solve their home repair problems. riculture (CSA) network that delivers Cleveland Heights,” she said. “We got food from local farms to sites across a sign-up sheet from a coworker at the Cuyahoga, Lorain and Summit counties, beginning of last summer and sent in our Local autism agency plans joint conference the Coventry Fresh Stop will operate check within a couple days, without a with OAR on Tuesday evenings from June 14 until second thought, because we could try a Oct. 25, with food demonstrations on week at a time and could still purchase the third Tuesday of the month. City shares after the start of the season. Deena Nyer Mendlowitz Fresh is a project of the nonprofit New Within a week or two I was helping with Agrarian Center, based in Oberlin, distribution. We were hooked.” The Organization for Autism Research Ohio. Unlike other CSAs, City Fresh sells (OAR), a highly respected national This will be Fresh Stop’s fourth year shares week by week. Members can buy agency focused on applied research, will at the Coventry library location. In past only for the weeks they need produce. hold its annual conference on June 21 in summers, the pop-up market set up Shares must be ordered and paid for at partnership with Cleveland’s Milestones tables near the large mulberry tree each least one week in advance, but they can Annual Autism/Asperger’s Conference: week and piled them high with fruits be stopped and started, or even doubled “Life-Long Strategies for Success.” and vegetables less than 24 hours out of for company, at any point in the 20-week Through this new partnership, the ground. A little before 5 p.m., a line growing season. They are available in OAR will provide a special conference would start to form—college students both family (three or four people) and track to focus on cutting-edge research and retirees from nearby apartments, single (one or two people) sizes. and to implement these research find- joggers with dogs, families with kids— City Fresh is also unique in its com- ings into daily life. These tracks will and soon customers would move along mitment to providing affordable fresh feature speakers from OAR’s Scientific the tables collecting lettuce, squash, food to low-income members. Those Council and its growing list of funded onions, peaches, herbs, and more, chat- who qualify can purchase shares at a researchers. The conference will offer ting about recipes with volunteers. reduced price. City Fresh accepts cash, 30 workshops and 13 different tailored Cofounders of Milestones Ilana Hoffer Skoff and It is a summertime ritual for many. checks and Ohio Directions cards. tracks, from new diagnosis to the transi- Mia Buchwald Gelles. “I really got drawn into it because of my The produce is grown on 30 small tion to adulthood. kids,” said Anna Kiss Mauser-Martinez, family farms—including four urban The conference is an opportunity conference, visit www.milestones.org. manager of this year’s Coventry Fresh farms—within 70 miles of Cleveland. for parents, professionals and adults Stop. “We would come to pick up our Unfortunately, the 2011 season is start- with autism to learn about local resourc- This story was excerpted from its online ver- share and my kids would play with other ing slowly because of unusually high es and the best practices for school, sion because of space constraint. To view the kids, climb the tree, while I talked to rainfall this spring. Originally slated to home, community and work. full story, visit www.heightsobserver.org. people about bok choy. Pretty soon I begin June 7, the first distribution day For more information about OAR, started volunteering, and after a year or had to be pushed back because farmers visit www.researchautism.org. For more Deena Mendlowitz is the communications as- two, I became the assistant manager. I knew they wouldn’t have enough pro- information on Milestones and its annual sociate at Milestones Autism Organization. look forward to it when the snow’s on duce ready to pick. the ground.” Over the course of the summer, shares get gradually bigger with the $15 DISCOUNT FOR NEW CLIENTS! harvest. The produce contains familiar favorites, but farmers also include some Platform Beds exotic vegetables. Learning how to pre- We offer solid wood or metal platform pare Japanese eggplant and kohlrabi is beds in all sizes, colors and styles. The Loving TM part of what customers enjoy. Hands Group “It makes dinner planning so much easier,” said volunteer Yevgenia Probst. Unique Services For “Whatever we get is what we eat.” Seniors And Those With for order forms and more in- Limited Mobility formation on the Coventry Fresh Stop, visit its Facebook page at www. • Art • Writing • Music • Interior Design • Yoga & More! facebook.com/pages/City-Fresh-Cleveland- Heights/100406746378 or visit www. We Visit Your Home Or Group Living Community cityfresh.org. 1812 COVENTRY RD 216-320-9761 216.408.5578 Toni Thayer is a 16-year Cleveland Heights SleepSourceUSA.com www.LovingHandsGroup.com resident, City Fresh volunteer and avid veg- We Bring The World To You! TM gie adventurer.

HeightsSLE-9313 Observer Platforms_Heights June Obeserver 1, 2011 May Ad_4.83x3.5.indd 1 5/17/11 3:28 PM 10 www.heightsobserver.org sustainability Grants boost small businesses Sustainable Heights Network hosts ‘public leadership in sustainability’ forum Kelli Fontenot Energy efficiency is becoming Dana finley increasingly important for small com- sive tree program that the city has. Small business owners who are in- panies, Kovach said, noting that not Even the CH-UH school district is At the May 10 networking forum held by terested in saving money, improving only are energy prices increasing, but getting in on the movement. Douglas Sustainable Heights Network at Rock- conditions for their clients, and reduc- research has shown that energy-efficient Heuer, district superintendant, told the efeller’s restaurant on Mayfield Road, ing environmental impact can apply companies outperform their competi- forum that all buildings in the district the focus was on government. A group to receive one of 85 grants for energy tors by 10 to 15 percent. In addition, recycle, though environmental regula- of public officials indicated that sustain- assessments as part of the Ohio Small energy-efficient lighting can make em- tions prohibit onsite composting. ability practices exist where you may not Business and Energy Efficiency Grant ployees more productive and engaged, As middle and high school students expect them. program from Council of Smaller according to recent data Kovach cited. cleaned out their lockers at the end of “We believe that the greenest build- Enterprises (COSE). The deadline for Furthermore, businesses with fewer the school year, sustainability practices ings are existing buildings,” said Nancy applications is June 15. than 50 employees pay 35 percent more reached them, too, with a specific pro- Levin, director of the CH-UH Public According to Tim Kovach, COSE’s than those with 100 or more employ- gram to encourage recycling of otherwise Library. By “recycling” the former YMCA energy product coordinator, the $500 ees, according to the Small Businesses discarded items. Other notable practices building into a library branch, the library grants will be given to 85 businesses in Administration. include the use of local and organic foods has provided space for additional activi- Ohio, primarily in Cuyahoga and Lake “Investing in energy efficiency is a in school lunches and the introduction ties and outside organizations—including counties; the Cincinnati, Columbus, great way to reduce costs, as well as free of clean-burning low-sulfur buses, which Playworks and the Dobama Theater. Dayton, and Toledo metro areas; and up dollars to spend on other areas that Heuer acknowledged are 50 percent more Levin pointed out that the concept counties in Southeast Ohio. will help a business grow and increase the expensive to operate. of a public library is itself an example of The program, which was funded bottom line,” Kovach said, adding that Robert Brown, from the City of environmentally-friendly sustainability: by a $100,000 grant from the Ohio $3,000 grants will go to 25 companies to Cleveland Planning Commission, also Through the sharing of media items and Department of Development, aims to help them carry out recommendations provided insights at the forum. One of continuous recycling, it reduces the dis- educate businesses with fewer than from the initial assessment, he said. Cleveland’s biggest problems, he said, is carding of books, magazines and DVDs. 100 employees about energy efficiency, Presser qualifies for the $3,000 the vast amount of land that has been Levin said administrators are explor- Kovach said. grant through the Department of De- abandoned by residents in recent years. ing alternative energy sources to power Through the program, business velopment and said he plans to use it to Cleveland is putting some of this land the library, including solar, wind, and geo- owners complete assessments that re- pay for a more efficient air conditioning to use by encouraging urban agriculture thermal power, but emphasized that the veal how energy costs add up, what up- system, replacing the current unit at the in the city. The commission has revised CU-UH library needs continued citizen grades are possible, how much they cost, Coventry Road location. zoning codes to permit urban agriculture, support to make these changes. and what the long-term benefits are. “It’s such a great opportunity,” he particularly chicken farming and beekeep- Cleveland Heights Mayor Edward Thirty-five businesses that qualify for said. “You could be losing $100 a month ing. The city has partnered with Garden- Kelley highlighted the city’s continued the first grant can get an additional $350 in energy costs, and for a small business ing for Greenbacks, an organization that recycling efforts to reduce use of land- scholarship for certification through the owner, those dollars add up. With this distributes grants of up to $3,000 to buy fills. “Over 50 percent of the trash that Green Plus program from the Institute grant, I can create a better environment agricultural equipment. Currently, there would be headed to a landfill otherwise for Sustainable Development. for my customers, I’m saving money and are 230 community gardens and farms in is recycled,” Kelley said. He also men- “Green Plus helps businesses to I’m energy efficient.” Cleveland. tioned planned construction of a pair of review their operations to determine As president of Coventry Village See the complete video of the event solar-powered bus stations to be built on how they can become more effective Merchants, Presser’s goals go beyond at http://vimeo.com/23958951. Mayfield and Coventry roads. Accord- and efficient, and how sustainability can bringing his own store’s utilities up to ing to Susanna Niermann O’Neil, CH’s be incorporated into that plan,” Kovach date. Businesses in the area are working Observer intern Dana Finley, editor-in-chief director of community services, projects explained. “I like to view it as a compre- together to turn Coventry Village into of Shaker Heights High School’s newspaper, like these are vital to the future of city hensive business improvement program. a green neighborhood, he said. The Shakerite, will attend Boston Univer- neighborhoods. “We’re very progressive,” It is more than just an effort to green Through a partnership with the sity in the fall to study journalism. she explained. “Sustainability projects are one’s business; it looks at the business’s Sustainability Plan Clinic at Baldwin- absolutely what we’re about.” performance, how it relates to its em- Wallace College, the Coventry Special For example, the city has proactively ployees and the community, and what Improvement District is promoting a sought out grants to undertake sustain- impact it leaves on the environment.” neighborhood approach to sustainabil- ability projects. These include $200,000 Big Fun Toy Store in Coventry Vil- ity, considering adding recycling in the Quality Painting. That’s All We Do! from the Department of Energy to ret- lage is among the businesses that are restaurants and other initiatives to help rofit lighting at the Cleveland Heights Cleveland Heights’ housepainter participating in the program. Energy Coventry become one of the leading Community Center, and $238,000 from for over 35 Years! efficiency might not be one of the first districts in the city. the Ohio EPA to improve the quality of things to spring to shoppers’ minds amid The City of Cleveland Heights rainwater runoff at the newly redesigned Interior • Exterior the extraordinary array of memorabilia, offers corrugated cardboard and paper Cumberland Pool parking lot. hard-to-find candy, retro magnets and product recycling bins. In addition, O’Neil said the city is reexamining quirky gifts sold in the city’s iconic Presser’s business uses spring water zoning codes to add eco-friendly ele- toy store. But establishing a positive and recycles regularly. In fact, his wife, ments, such as allowing for solar panels, atmosphere for customers and reducing Debbie Apple Presser, is an artist who rain barrels and rain gardens. environmental impact are top priorities creates sculptures using recycled materi- University Heights Mayor Susan Infeld for Steve Presser, the store’s owner. als. Some of these are displayed in the also spoke at the forum. She said that Uni- Presser submitted detailed monthly store’s front window. versity Heights has once again been awarded statements about the store’s energy At another Coventry fixture, Tom- 216-529-0360 the Tree City USA award for the 33rd straight usage to receive a customized energy my’s restaurant, cars can pull up behind www.neubertpainting.com year. The award recognizes the comprehen- 12108 Madison Ave., Lakewood, Ohio 44107 audit provided through the COSE grant. the restaurant to fill their tanks with Green Street Solutions came to the biodiesel, demonstrating one of the store to check pipes and potential leaks many steps the city has taken to become in the building, and identify other com- greener. mon building issues that might affect his “We want to create a model that costs. can be used in other neighborhoods—an “I’m frugal and I don’t want to example of several businesses imple- 1814 coventry rd • cleveland hts • 216-371-4FUn (4386) spend a ton of money, but I want to find menting [green practices] in a way that’s out what I can do to help the environ- economic and efficient,” Presser said, ment,” he said. adding that this makes the area attrac- In Presser’s case, some of the tive both to shoppers and to potential WE BUY OLD TOYS! needed changes were obvious, such as residents, increasing the neighborhood’s upgrading from incandescent lighting, value. We Sell: ColleCtibleS • Cleveland SouvenirS but others were less evident. “I don’t Kovach agrees that Cleveland Superhero FigurineS • vintage video gameS have the ability to take an infrared cam- Heights is already a leader in this area. era and walk around and find out where By mid-May, four businesses had signed ClaSSiC Candy • greeting CardS & gag giFtS I have leakage,” he said, explaining that up to receive a grant, and several more the auditors did just that, and found a expressed interest. As part of the effort StiCkerS & magnetS • toyS & gameS For all ageS place in the building where air was leak- to concentrate on specific neighbor- toyS From the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s & 90’s ing out and significantly increasing his hoods and encourage businesses to monthly costs. continued on page 12 voted one of 20 Coolest Stores in america by playboy.com Heights Observer June 1, 2011 11 www.heightsobserver.org heights kids Families return to Coventry School

Krissy Dietrich Gallagher

After quietly sitting empty since 2007, the Coventry School building will once again be filled with children’s voices. On June 21, Family Connections, the fam- ily support organization formed from the merger of Heights Parent Center o nn ectio n s and Shaker Family Center, will move amily C amily its Cleveland Heights office and core F programming from Taylor School to Learning through play at Family Connections. Coventry. The move has been greeted with enthusiasm by staff, participants Barrett believes that Family Con- and area residents alike. nections will add to the sense of commu- According to Ellen Barrett, long- nity that already exists in the Coventry time playroom coordinator and family neighborhood. “Family Connections is support specialist at Family Connec- deeply committed to supporting parents tions, “We’ve been fortunate over as they make the often difficult journey the past 15 years to be housed by the through the early years of parenthood,” CH-UH City School District in both she said. chuerger Millikin and Taylor schools, but we’ve Because of the move, the Family S arah never had the chance to be part of a Connections drop-in programs at Taylor S wider community. Being at Coventry will be closed from June 13 through July will give us an opportunity to work side 5. The Little Heights literacy programs Fairmount Church Co-op Preschool by side with the P. E.A.C.E. Park and at the Lee Road Library will remain The Young 3s preschool class at Fairmount Church Co-op Preschool enjoys playground groups, Coventry merchants open, as will the drop-in programs at the playhouse on the school’s playground. For information about the school and Coventry Village Library, as well as the Shaker Family Center (located in call 216-321-5800 or visit www.fairmountcoop.org. the great group of folks moving into the the former Sussex School). Family Con- building with us.” nections will honor Cleveland Heights small business grants continued from page 11 “We were thrilled to learn that Cov- passes at the Shaker location during the collaborate, Kovach and Nicole Stika, compelling for them.” entry School is going to be used in ways three-week move. Learn more at www. director of energy programs for COSE, Businesses can apply for a COSE that enhance our neighborhood,” said familyconnections1.org. met with business owners across Ohio grant at www.smallbizenergysaver.org, Mark Chupp, a 15-year resident of the to share details about the program. or by contacting Kovach at tkovach@ Coventry area, “The two organizations Krissy Dietrich Gallagher is a longtime Whether businesses are interested cose.org. Businesses that are religiously [Family Connections and the Cleveland resident of Cleveland Heights, a graduate of in attracting environmentally-conscious affiliated or home-based are ineligible. Sight Center] bring programs that can the Heights schools and a former Coventry customers, capitalizing on the potential The $3,000 grants are awarded on a first serve young families that have recently school teacher. She currently sits on the to reduce expenses, being green, or come-first served basis. moved to this area. We commend the board of directors of Family Connections. saving the world, an energy assessment school board and the city for working She blogs at http://krissygallagher.word- can help, Kovach said. “It’s up to the Kelli Fontenot is a journalist living in together to make this possible.” press.com. business owner to decide what’s most Cleveland Heights. SUMMER CAMPS AT THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT... FINANCIAL Mom & Dad, AID IS AVAILABLE

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the residents of Cuyahoga County For more information, call 216-421-5806, ext. 100 or visit www.TheMusicSettlement.org through Cuyahoga 11125 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, OH 44106 Arts & Culture

Heights Observer June 1, 2011 12 www.heightsobserver.org Volume 96, Issue 3 The Black & Gold, Cleveland Heights High School Wednesday, June 1, 2011 Girls lacrosse team #1 in state Team overcomes obstacles and comes out on top By Colin Higgs Early this year, while the ground was still covered with a thin blanket of snow, and most people were huddled away indoors avoiding the still linger- ing winter’s cold, one group of girls remained unaffected by the bitter climate and focused firmly on the coming spring.

Starting at the end of February, the Cleveland Heights High Girls Lacrosse Team began meeting in the gym every day after school for prac- tices. Inside, the team used the time to work on game mechanics, and to get into shape.

In addition to these school prac- tices, though, the team has gone above and beyond this year, says Coach Maura Neumeister. A number of girls have been organizing their own indoor practices since November. “They really hold each other to very high standards,” says Neumeister. “The team is very motivated, very Pictured above: Senior Olivia Lash (right), Senior Kelly Jones (left) supportive of each other, and very Photo by Maura Neumeister determined.” With the odds against them, the nia, the girls went on to win 10 more But despite the girls’ rigorous girls waded into their first game and, games, losing only three over the The forfeited games have not been practice schedule, the team members much to their own surprise, won course of the season. But because of the only hardships that the team has could not help but be nervous when handily. “There were a lot of moments a new league rule that restricts the endured. The girls also had to cope leaving for their annual spring trip in where I thought to myself ‘How do use of a player who has been given with the poor weather that kept them March. Not only was the team travel- they do that?’” says Neumeister. “After two yellow cards in a previous game, from practicing outside, and the ab- ing across the country to Palo Alto, the game, all I thought was, ‘Wow. the team was forced to forfeit three sence of one of their key starters, Kelly California, but part of the trip also The girls have really stepped it up of their victories where they were in Jones, for a large part of the season, involved the team’s first outdoor play this year.’” violation of this rule. “Basically, it was who was out because of a head injury. of the season. a lot of confusion, from a new rule” After their first two wins in Califor- says Neumeister. “We have been through a rough season with all of the complications of new rules, but we have overcome them and are hoping to go far,” says 10th-grader Mackenzie Lash.

And despite the obstacles, the team has gone far. The girls now are ranked number one in the state, and number three in the entire Midwest. “As the season went on, the girls just kept winning, and they kept having fun with it,” says Neumeister. “They’ve really made themselves the team to beat this year in Ohio.”

According to Neumeister, the team is a really close-knit group. Aside from their trip to California, the girls also have regular pasta dinners, and always get along very well with each other.

“The hardest thing is everyone keeps asking, ‘Who’s really good,’ but it’s all of them. They work really well together as a team. It’s been a lot of fun coaching them.”

The team will play in the District Senior Kelly Rosenbaum makes a save in game. finals on Tuesday, May 31, hoping to beat Medina and reach the state finals. Photo by Maura Neumeister

Heights Observer June 1, 2011 13 www.heightsobserver.org Page 2 Opinion Wednesday, June 1, 2011 The Black & Gold, Cleveland Heights High School New policies, technology does not work By Kelsey Ferguson The newly enforced EOS period ing difficulty in mastering certain themselves for a technologically SAT or ACT tutors, increasing stan- that was implemented at the be- concepts. The EOS’s purpose is for based economy, the laptops did dardized test scores that could ginning of this school year is not students to receive help from their not enhance academic growth. potentially increase the schools only a waste of time for students, teachers, strengthening their grasp They were frivolous, expensive and rating, the students’ academic but creates problems when help is on the information: this cannot added nothing to our academic future, and knowledge students needed in the class. This extra pe- happen when students are forced achievement. They were helpful in will need to take college entrance riod, added to the day, disregards to stay in their EOS with other writing papers or surfing the web exams. Laptops are not going to students’ needs for individual help. students when they should be re- for some academic purposes, but do any of these things. Technol- The Heights High School website ceiving help on information they how are these expensive gadgets ogy is becoming a large part of states, “The Educational Options don’t understand. The special help really furthering the knowledge of mainstream society, but it is not for Success (EOS) periods are in- time after school was cut this year, our schools students? Though so- essential for every school student tended to offer in-school academic because with the EOS addition to cial network sites were blocked, the when computer labs and libraries support for students. There is the schedule, students would be majority of students found ways of are readily available. also after school support offered.” provided” in-school academic sup- breaking the code to these locks, If our school wants to project a (www.chuh.org) port for students.” (CHUH) With few using these sites more often than bounty of successful students into The EOS period was created for aligning periods, how are students those relevant to their schoolwork. college, the workforce, or any other students who are struggling in their expected to get the help they need? For example, out of my five core occupation, changes will need to studies and for those who could use Though many believe that the classes, I used my laptop on only be made in order for these goals to the extra period to obtain help from new laptop initiative, that placed one occasion. I feel that instead of be met. The EOS period is a waste their teachers. Too often, though, a laptop in every student’s pos- issuing laptops to every student, of time, the laptops are a waste of students’ EOS periods do not align session, provided attractive tools a better use of the money could money, and better options must with their teachers, thus experienc- that helped students prepare have gone towards professional be available. Teacher feature: Julie Raffay By Brandon Fernando Currently in her 7th year of Ms. Raffay has found some methods teaching at Cleveland Heights High of utilizing the new technology. School, biology teacher Julie Raffay In her Bio 1 class, Ms. Raffay has is a Cleveland native with a passion conducted virtual labs while in her for understanding how living things AP Biology classes she uploaded her work. This interest has translated into daily powerpoint notes to the web an enthusiastic approach to teaching for student access. There has been that includes experiments such as some turbulence in her attempted dissections, brewing root beer, and implementation of student laptops, inserting DNA into bacteria. however, “The science wing doesn’t Ms. Raffay grew up on have great internet access, so we had the West Side of Cleveland, and to have backup plans just in case,” in the past year she has moved to admits Raffay. The website for the AP Lakewood from Cleveland Heights. Biology textbook was also blocked Partial to her place of origin, Ms. by the school web filter, for some Raffay confesses that she is “still a reason. West Side girl. I love being able to Outside of teaching, Ms. walk wherever I want to go,” says Raffay enjoys traveling. Some of her Raffay, speaking of Lakewood. most recent trips include excursions According to Ms. Raffay, biology to London and Italy, and her summer appealed to her at a young age, plans include trips to Las Vegas and partially due to her very “outdoorsy” Florida. In addition to traveling, Ms. parents. Although committed to a Raffay has also recently taken up biology major even before college, running as a healthy way to express Ms. Raffay decided to focus on her competitive side, while staying in teaching only in her senior year. “If shape. I really like this, I should get other Over the summer, Ms. Raffay people to like it too,” says Ms. Raffay, will be taking an AP preparation explaining her thought process. course so that she will be able to Still looking to encourage teach AP Environmental Science next interest amongst her students, Ms. year. In between the traveling and Raffay includes numerous hands- the preparation course, Ms. Raffay on experiments in her lesson plans plans to read books by the pool and with varying subject matter. Both generally “soak up free time” before this year and last year, her AP Photo by Margaret Hull returning not only to teach in the Biology classes made root beer while both frogs and sharks after taking New to her teaching fall, but to grad school in pursuit studying fermentation. Ms. Raffay’s the AP Biology test. In between all of experience this year was the of her second masters degree. Ms. Nature Studies class has taken the experimentation, her classes do introduction of student laptops. Raffay currently has a masters degree nature walks to Cain Park, where cover plenty of material. In fact, AP Although the long awaited arrival in Educational Administration and they have searched for salamanders. Biology, arguably her most intensive of the student laptops received will be working towards a masters For the second year in a row, her class, covers 52 chapters before somewhat of a bittersweet reception degree in Public Health starting this AP Biology classes will also dissect taking the AP exam. from students and teachers alike, coming school year.

The Black & Gold is a student publi- The Black & Gold is affiliated with advisor, Margaret Hull, at m_hull@chuh. * * * cation of Cleveland Heights High School, the following press organizations: org, or reach her by phone at (216) 320- Editors-in-Chief ...... 13263 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, Northeastern Ohio Scholastic Press As- 4999 ext. 81321 Colin Higgs Ohio 44118. Our World Wide Web site is sociation (NOSPA), Columbia Scholastic The Black and Gold is made possible ...... Julia Gay located at go.chhs.chuh.org Press Association (CSPA), Journalism in part by a generous grant from the Managing Editor...... Jake Stern The Black & Gold welcomes all opin- Education Association (JEA), The Great Cleveland Heights High School Alumni ions in the form of signed letters to the Lakes Interscholastic Press Association Foundation; the staff of the paper would Reporters: Brandon Fernando, Sofija Conic, editor. All letters should be sent in care of (GLIPA) and Quill and Scroll. The Black & like to extend its graditude. Monica Chan, Lily Gould, Mikale Thomas, publications to the above address. Gold has won the NOSPA First Place, CSPA Opinions expressed are the consen- Ilona Eke, and Kelsey Ferguson. The Black & Gold is produced camera- Medalist Awards, CSPA First Place Awards, sus of The Black & Gold editorial board and ready on Macintosh computers using the GLIPA Buckeye Award and Quill and Scroll do not represent the views of Cleveland Advisor...... Margaret Hull InDesign program. International Awards. For advertising Heights or the Cleveland Heights-Univer- Photograhpy...... Jake Stern rates and information, please email our sity Heights School District. Heights Observer June 1, 2011 14 www.heightsobserver.org black & Gold

Page 3 Feature Wednesday, June 1, 2011 The Black & Gold, Cleveland Heights High School Homecoming Heights grad, playwright, returns for visit By Lily Gould On May 20, Rajiv Joseph, a 1992 able to. Later, I found out I was truly Cleveland Heights High School Alum- good at playwriting,” Joseph told the nus, returned to his alma mater to talk class. to students about his journey to the big time as a nationally recognized play- After returning to the States, he wright who was a 2010 Pulitzer Prize wrote a number of plays, including nalist. On returning to Heights High, his most recent, and Tony nominated, he talked to several English classes and work Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo. visited his roots by watching the Vocal A Broadway producer who saw the Music Department’s Singers during play in California was very impressed. their eighth period class. Producers recruited Robin Williams to play the lead role of the Tiger, in After receiving his degree in Creative hopes of making it on Broadway. The Rajiv Joseph Writing from Miami University in Ohio, play opened in March at the Richard Photo Courtesy of chuh.org Joseph joined the Peace Corps and Rodgers Theatre, with a limited run until seph talked a little bit about his plays Me,” a tradition started by Bill Thomas, was sent to the West African Republic early July. Closer to home, Joseph wrote and his theater career, though he was founder of Singers and his choir direc- of Senegal. There he kept journals and Huck and Holden, currently playing at more interested in seeing the students tor. In parting, Joseph advised the stu- was quite fond of writing. “When I was the Cleveland Play House. perform. After watching practiced dents that, although they may not be young I always wanted to write novels. pieces, Joseph joined in the singing perfect at what they love, they should My heart was set on it but I was never While visiting the show choir, Jo- of the choir’s signature song, “Let It Be always follow their dreams. Environmental Club is growing Poetry By Ilona Eke Spotlight Last December, Mr. Steven Education and, after approval, they will students to take them home. During Warner and Ms. Jannet Korb, science get started immediately. the rst week after school ends, club Aerial Swift teachers at Cleveland Heights High The club’s main project is the members will help sort out all the By Corliss Amerson My mind trapped behind the fence, School, talked to their classes about Learning Garden at The Deborah S. belongings left behind. Trying to realize there are ways to water quality. Ms. Korb and Mr. Warner Delisle Education Center with the col- Students at CHHS also built Climb to a better you. worked in collaboration to help the city laboration of Cleveland Heights and bird boxes that have been erected at No car I drive can drive out of this of Cleveland Heights and the Cuyahoga University Heights. Currently, there are the Education Center. The bird boxes State of mind Board of Health obtain a grant for a 40 plots (8 ft. x 10 ft.). The high school attract bluebirds which are becoming Though only they can free them- green parking lot at Cumberland Pool. will use ve of the plots, the rest are endangered. Selves. This past fall, Mr. Warner and open to residents and businesses for At the start of the 2011-2012 In their diary, no limits are bound to his students presented their ideas sale at $20.00 each. If you would like to school year, there will be a Service The mind and their hope for an environmental buy one or more, please call University Learning Class offered at the high Where emotions are put into play. club at the high school to bioneers at Heights City Hall at (216) 932-7800. school. The class’s goal is to teach stu- Free minded people can overcome Cuyahoga Community College. In the Students from Mr. Warner’s science dents through service in the commu- Any wall of judgement months following, the Environmental classes have taken soil samples to help nity. The class is open to a cross-section But all cold hearted people will never Club was born. plan how to amend the soil for plant- of 9-12th grade students in all small Understand true love of the arts, The main focus of the club is to ing. By summer 2011, the club hopes schools. The class is worth one credit, Only trapped in the negative degrees preserve the environment. The ideas to have plots at The Deborah S. Delisle with only 25 slots available. Interested Causing them to freeze in ice. presented in the club are included in Education Center full of plants. students should contact their guidance My only advice is that you must nd the English and Science curriculum. Another Environmental Club counselor. “This class is very important An outlet for yourself - Mr. Warner took students from the project, scheduled during nals week, so please join as soon as possible,” And mine is poetry. club and his science class on a eld trip is helping the custodians clean out advised Mr. Warner. My words breeze the emotions of to a number of local gardens. They trav- lockers at the high school. Students For more information, contact Others and my intentions eled to Fairfax Elementary, Canterbury leave large quantities of belongings in Mr. Warner at: steven_warner@chuh. Build up until they are as powerful as Elementary, Montessori School in Little their lockers, so the club is encouraging org. Italy, the Coventry area, and The Debo- A hurricane. rah S. Delisle Education Center, formerly called Taylor Academy, to learn about about various community gardens. The club is collaborating with the cit- ies of Cleveland Heights and University Heights, and the public schools to help create more environmentally friendly actions. The club is assisting Future Heights, a community based nonpro t organization, with green mapping the city for sustainable assets. The map is located at http://www.opengreenmap. org/greenmap/sustainable-heights- green-map. Students at the high school will map Taylor and Lee Roads in the future. In addition, the high school hopes for future collaboration with Fairfax and other elementary schools. Graduate students and sta at Case Western Reserve University are also involved with plans to install some rain gardens at The Deborah S. Delisle Edu- cation Center and CHHS. The students and faculty made three designs for Mr. Warner’s first period class at Taylor Academy collecting dirt samples for testing. rain gardens to be proposed for these areas. Students of CHHS will present Photo Courtesy of Environmental Club the information to the CHUH Board of Heights Observer June 1, 2011 15 www.heightsobserver.org black & Gold

Page 4 Feature Wednesday, June 1, 2011 The Black & Gold, Cleveland Heights High School Senior Destinations 2011 Baldwin-Wallace University Hiram College The New School of Jazz and Collin Simpson Anna Borkan Katherine Starr Contemporary Music Jonathan Thomas Belmont University Sheri Chambers Johnson and Wales University Thiel College Gina Evangelista Michael Bryant Bowling Green State University Sharrell Pointer Tamar Atwell Brian Barron Kent State University Shawn Fields Karolina Kucerova United States Air Force Christopher Lanton Alexandra Pattillo DeMarcus Patrick Ajia Mason Serrena Prezioso Ashley Pope University of Akron Jordan Raines Maryland Institute College of Cierra Avery-Starks Joshua Toombs Marcel Dear Art DaVonna Jackson Canisius College Lucia Maher-Tatar Cheray Lillard Jordan Oates Daelantae Marshall Meredith College Case Western Reserve Adajah Morgan-Bennett University of Cincinnati Lydia Resnik University Miami University Chandrima Bhadra Brandon Gordon Carlin Jackson University of Dayton Christopher Patton Muskingum University Cincinnati State Technical & Larissa Davis University of Michigan Community College Cory Dodson Kelly Rosenbaum Cody Martin North Central College University of Mt Union Cleveland State University Niyah Banks Adam Ceasor Devon Crenshaw Samantha Hackman Charles McCoy Oakland University University of Pittsburgh Nicole Rosenbaum Brianna Monroe Kayla Kelly Mairi Mull Ezra Rabinsky Ohio Northern University University of Rochester Andrew Royal Jared Birks Zena Levan Tyree Shaw Jonathan Tarnay Allison Walker Ohio State University University of Toledo LaTonya Bouldin Timmery Wimbley Haingo Andriamasilalao Jasmine Berry Mario Braxton Elana Berusch Sierra Hu man College of Wooster Andrea Chan Blanchard Jones Diana Drushel Rachael Collyer Rosalind Leonard Gwendolyn Donley Demetria McIntyre Jesse Hammond Ariana Saleem Cuyahoga Community College Ryan Simpson Breana Laster Nadiyah Harper Shannon Je ries Sylvia Taylor Christopher Jordan Destinee Wagner Cuyahoga County Airport Avital Lugasy Flight Academy Daniel Pease-Kerr University of Wisconsin- Parish Roston David Schellenberg Natalie Sperl Madison Bennett Wildey Ryan Perlic Denison University Taylor Wong Ariana Gray Be’ Ursuline College Ohio University Ayla Harris DePaul University Richard Moses Saralila Kalafat Virginia Marti College of Art & Emma Lissemore Oral Roberts University Eric Gray, Jr Design Eastern Michigan University Candice Avery Deltreasa Lee Rochester Institute of Wittenberg University Elmhurst College Technology Samuel Collins Imani Banks Alexander Ritchey Wright State University Gannon University Savannah College of Art & Kamille Harris Niobi Dunn Design Morgan Clement Xavier University of Louisiana George Mason University Taylor Lowry Ashley Aniton Shawnee State University This is a partial listing of schools as of May 24, 2011. A complete list will be available online at www.heightsobserver.org Heights Observer June 1, 2011 Ashley16 Bryant www.heightsobserver.org heights schools

Thank a teacher, support excellence Cleveland Heights-University THE COMMON reflect, redesign and improve. Create all Heights School Board GOOD over again. If we want good teachers, we can meeting highlights help create what Emmons calls the Susie Kaeser “psychosocial environment” that makes them want to pour their hearts and April 19, 2011 Individuals can have a powerful effect minds into their work on a daily basis. If on the quality of teaching in our public teachers were made of steel, they could Board Member Kal Zucker was excused. means that people will have to be brought in from schools. better withstand the ever-changing pub- outside the district to coach and advise extracur- We can’t give educators the skills lic policies, administrators, students and Contract agreements ricular activities they need to be effective, but we can families, educational fads and expecta- The board approved two-year extensions of cur- help motivate them to be their best. tions that affect their daily lives. Not rent contracts for Cleveland Heights Teachers and Employment medical exam When we pay attention to their work, to mention the attacks by people with Monitors Union Local 795, Ohio Association of Board Member Nancy Peppler questioned the dis- and let them know how valuable they their own agendas. Despite these pres- Public School Employees (OAPSE) Local 617, trict’s decision to receive a comprehensive report are, it makes a difference. When they sures, teachers have to stay the course. OAPSE Local 102, OAPSE Local 100, Educational of an employee’s initial employment medical exam do well, tell them! It’s as easy as that. Don’t underestimate the harm Administrative and Professional Staff Council. instead of receiving just a statement of the person’s The Cleveland Heights-University inflicted on quality education by the President Coble thanked the bargaining units for ability to perform the job. McDaniel explained that Heights City School District has an ar- teacher bashing that is part of a long- agreeing to the two-year pay freezes. the more complete information could be helpful to ray of strategies to develop its teachers. term effort to discredit public education. personnel staff in some instances. But according to educational psycholo- Little by little, it is eroding the confi- Lease/purchase of office equipment gist Christine Emmons, from the Yale dence and will of the people who do this The board approved a resolution for the lease/ Staff/student communication University School of Medicine’s Child important human development work. purchase of office equipment along with a service Board Member Karen Jones questioned whether Student Center, they need us, too. We must give educators the sup- agreement at a cost of $140,103. it was realistic for the district to prohibit staff/stu- In the April 6 edition of Education port that helps them rise to the level we dent communication via e-mail or text. Micheller Week, Emmons explains that teachers want. Acknowledgment is powerful. Use Gearity roof explained that the prohibited communication is via do not leave college knowing how to be it. Write a note, visit a school and ob- The board approved a March 31, 2011 bid for social media like Facebook and that the distinction great teachers. “Skill and competence serve, express your gratitude in person. roofing at Gearity Professional Development needs to be made clearer. are built through experience, effective Send a letter to the editor, or invite your School. mentoring and relevant professional elected representative to see the great Gifts development.” Clear and consistent work that teachers do. Let people know Race to the Top Regarding disallowing individual gifts from staff to goals, adequate resources and tools to you are proud of our children and their The board accepted the Race to the Top grant students, Jones asked about small incentives given achieve those goals matter, as does, “the teachers. Challenge the naysayers who for $195,231. in the classroom. Micheller explained that these respect of colleagues, policymakers, and make sweeping generalizations about are not considered gifts. the general public.” educators and schools. Personnel policies and legal changes Good teachers do a lot more than Start by visiting www.reachingheights. Nylajean McDaniel, director of human resources, Tutoring for credit show up. This demanding profession org and click “Thank A Teacher.” and Joseph Micheller, director of special programs Jones also asked whether a teacher tutoring a stu- cannot be done by rote or formula. and compliance, reported on changes in federal dent for credit in conjunction with the new flex credit Teachers must plan, create engaging Susie Kaeser is a longtime resident of Cleve- and state laws and legal precedents, which CH- violates the policy against teachers tutoring students lessons, listen effectively, think on their land Heights. She is the former director of UH policies must reflect. outside of school for pay. Micheller said he would feet, connect, be organized, smile, use Reaching Heights and current board member check the ethics code to see if there are specific assessments to redirect their teaching, of the Home Repair Resource Center. Supplemental contracts circumstances that might allow such tutoring. In the administrative union, while some members are to be called administrators, others, such as LWV Observer: Nancy Dietrich. information technology staff, are to be called professional staff. Because of the change, hourly Look for earlier and often expanded staff will no longer be able to take supplemental postings of meeting summaries online contracts for extracurricular work because of legal at www.heightsobserver.org. complications with the way their pay, including See disclaimer on page 4. weighted overtime, would be calculated. This

Boulevard Science Club wins first-place

FATHER’SDAY

JUNE 19TH

The Science Club at Boulevard Elementary School took home two first-place medals at theE ngi- neers and Technicians of the Future robotics competition. The students won for best presentation and best-looking robot. K-5 science specialist Jackie Taylor (right) and 4th-grade teacher Sandy Axner (left) lead the club.

2266 Warrensville Center Road As seen on KT0611 University Heights, Ohio 44118 Diners, 216 371-5643 216 382-5333 Drive-ins www.geracisrestaurant.net and Dives Mon - Fri 8-7, Sat 8-6, Sun 10-5

Heights Observer June 1, 2011 17 www.heightsobserver.org heights schools Roxboro kindergarteners visit Coventry New principal to Deanna Bremer Fisher he was 14. “Now you can show your par- lead Canterbury ents what you learned,” he joked. “And The Roxboro kindergarten classes paid a they can be impressed—or not.” Elementary special visit to Coventry Village on May The students also visited Mac’s 6 to learn about how small businesses Backs, Big Fun, Hunan Coventry and work and how they contribute to the City Buddha. local economy. “The trip fits into our social stud- Tom Fello, owner of Tommy’s restau- ies curriculum,” said Polanco, who rant, welcomed the students with a snack organized the outing. “We are studying of Muenster cheese, French fries and communities, and we live in a great vanilla and chocolate milk shakes. While one. I wanted the kids to get to know the children devoured the treats, their the community and the function that ch-uh city school district teachers, Jennifer Polanco, Lynne Mara- it serves. Many of them have probably Stacy Stuhldreher Kevin Harrell deanna bremer fisher gliano and Amy Miracle, presented Fello Suzanne DeGaetano, owner of Mac's Backs, shows been to Coventry before, but now the with a Roxboro Elementary T-shirt. Roxboro Kindergarteners one of her favorite kids have a chance to go behind the Angee Shaker books from her childhood. Pictured are Roxboro Fello took the students on a tour mom Amanda Plavan, and Roxboro student Rachel scenes, meet the shop owners, and learn of the restaurant’s back-of-the-house O'Keeffe. how a community functions.” Douglas Heuer, superintendent of the operations, including the French fry The class plans a return trip to Cov- Cleveland Heights-University Heights preparation area and walk-in freezers. He all of the plastic containers from our entry Village in June. They will visit the City School District, announced two explained that he wanted to show them strawberries and other items and give it Coventry Village Library to get library changes in his leadership team for the how a mom-and-pop business runs and to a local artist so that she can use it to cards and sign up for the summer reading 2011–12 school year. emphasize the values of supporting local decorate a fence that surrounds a con- program. They also plan to visit several Stacy Stuhldreher will become businesses, recycling and healthy eating. struction project on Cedar Road.” more local businesses. “You’re never too principal of Canterbury Elementary He described to the kids how Fello took the kids to the restau- young to learn about supporting local School. An educator for more than 20 Tommy’s recycles to support other local rant’s basement where supplies are businesses,” noted Polanco. years, Stuhldreher is widely recognized efforts. “We take all of the oil from our received, stored and prepped. He also as an innovative and effective school French fry machine and mix it with a demonstrated how to take the core out Deanna Bremer Fisher is executive direc- leader. She joined the CH-UH district little diesel fuel to power diesel-powered of a head of lettuce with just one hand, tor of FutureHeights and publisher of the in 2005 and is currently coordinator of trucks,” Fello explained. “And we save a skill he told them he had learned when Heights Observer. elementary curriculum, a post to which she was named after serving as principal at Oxford Elementary School for four years. Bellefaire students nurture quails Kevin J. Harrell, the current Can- terbury principal, will become coordi- Joy Henderson nator of elementary curriculum on July 1, replacing Stuhldreher. Harrell began Tucked away in a corner of Bellefaire his teaching career in the East Cleveland School is a bobwhite quail hatchery City School District and was both an that was designed and decorated by art assistant principal and principal in the students to make the young quails feel Cleveland Municipal School District safe and happy. The chicks hatched in before joining CH-UH as principal late March and are part of a project of Canterbury Elementary School in involving 25 students in math, science 2006. and art classes. In a letter to parents and guard- The process of hatching and car- ians of Canterbury students about the ing for quails has been exciting for the changes, Heuer expressed his gratitude students. Monitoring the egg health, to both Stuhldreher and Harrell for their preparing the hatchery, recording chick “flexibility and enthusiasm,” and his development, and researching the best henderson joy belief in the potential of these changes location for the release in May has been Shawn tends quails in the hatchery designed by students at Bellefaire School. to benefit the entire community. a full educational experience. on watching the birds, seeing if they quail project are Marc Baker (art), Diane “I have tremendous confidence in “This project made us want to were okay.” Munro (math), and Judy Spainhoward Ms. Stuhldreher’s ability to transition learn,” sophomore Jenna S. said. “Watch- Senior Aaron A. is part of the team (science). The project was funded with into her new role quickly, completely, ing a new life come into the world was researching quail habitat. The students a service learning grant. and with great success,” Heuer said. great.” She was part of the team that will release the birds in late May at a Bellefaire School serves CH-UH The superintendent also expressed created graphs and charts tracking egg farm in Southington, Ohio. “We will students in grades 6–12 who are placed his confidence that Harrell’s transition and chick growth. look for an area on the farm that has in an alternative environment. The will likewise be marked by smoothness Junior Taylor W. and her team were the best food, water, and shelter for the structure, curriculum and small class and efficiency, and that these latest responsible for setting up a webcam. quails,” Aaron said. size enables teachers to offer individual changes within his leadership team will Once in place, the students could watch “I am happy that we can release them attention and emotional support. “allow two incredibly dedicated and the birds and make sure their environ- to their natural habit,” Taylor said. “But accomplished instructional leaders to ment and development was good, with- we will all miss seeing them grow up.” Joy Henderson is the parent/community maintain their high level of effectiveness out handling them. “I really got hooked The teachers leading the Bellefaire liaison for Heights High. while taking on challenging new assign- ments.” “Ms. Stuhldreher and Mr. Harrell, The “Tuck-Point” Turner along with our teachers and our entire Restorative Cosmetic Masonry Specialist professional staff, are at the center of Tavern our vision of Preparing All Students Company Specialists in restoring “Heirloom” Homes built before 1950 for Success in A Global Economy The Only Lime-Registered Mason in Ohio (P.A.S.S.A.G.E.),” Heuer said. “In the (Source – Cleveland Restoration Society) Cleveland Heights-University Heights Mon. Burger Fries & Beer Night $9 Top-shelf products & methods to restore your Antique Brickwork! schools, our human resources are indeed Tues. Flatbread Pizza Beer /Wine an extraordinary asset.” Tues. Trivia starting at 10 pm 20 (Yes, Twenty!) YEAR mortar guarantee Wed & Thurs: "5 for $30" In Masonry Since 1974 2 Dine for the $ of 1! Includes 2 small salads + s¬)NSURED¬¬s¬¬2EFERENCES¬!VAILABLE¬5PON¬9OUR¬2EQUEST¬¬s¬¬!¬h'REENv¬"USINESS Angee Shaker is director of communications 2 select dinners + a pitcher of Moosehead beer for Cleveland Heights-University Heights OR a bottle of House wine = ONLY $30 Artisans, NOT Bricklayers City School District. M-F Happy Hour 5–7 pm Find samples of my work on FACEBOOK!

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Heights Observer June 1, 2011 18 www.heightsobserver.org heights schools Heights Hall of Fame inducts ten distinguished alumni

Angee Shaker

The Cleveland Heights High School Alumni Foundation inducted ten dis- tinguished alumni to its Hall of Fame on May 5, at Landerhaven in Mayfield Heights. The Hall of Fame was created as a way for Heights High to honor the accomplishments of its alumni. It also gives current students solid examples of what they can accomplish in life, as they listen to adults who sat in the same seats and walked the same halls they do. With more than 50,000 graduates to date, students have an impressive and diverse list of alumni from which to select potential inductees. A student committee, known as the courtesy of angee shaker courtesy Imagemakers, selects from nominations Front row: Richard Gray, A. David Rossin, Rebecca Spyke Keiser, Jerome Jennings; Back row: Rabbi Jerome Epstein, Mark Blumenthal, Michael Deet, Thomas made by the general public. Imagemak- Burton, Gladys Haddad. Not pictured: Gary Glazer. ers do not know the names of the nomi- nees, only their accomplishments. Dr. A. David Rossin, ’49; nuclear engi- The evening’s program began with forms can be found at www.heightsalum- This year’s inductees are: neer and scientist. performances by the Heights Singers, ni.org. Also posted on the foundation’s Mark Blumenthal, ’81; editor and politi- “It’s not until you hear the inductees followed by remarks from the induct- website is a complete listing of Hall of cal consultant. speak and listen to their stories that ees. The next morning, the new Hall of Fame inductees, as well as biographies Thomas D. Burton, ’83; educator and you understand just why the students Famers visited Heights High, touring the of inductees from the past 17 years. administrator. selected them for the Hall of Fame,” building and speaking to classes. Michael Deet, ’88; music producer and said Eric Silverman, president of the The alumni foundation accepts Angee Shaker is director of communica- manager. Cleveland Heights High School Alumni nominations for the Hall of Fame tions for the Cleveland Heights-University Rabbi Jerome M. Epstein, ’61; activist Foundation and a 1987 graduate of throughout the year and application Heights City School District. and religious leader. Heights High. Dr. Gary Glazer, ’68; physician and “What is great about this year’s Landscape Design inductees is not only their varied ca- educator. & Construction Richard S. Gray, ’49; entrepreneur and reers and lives, but also the uniqueness MJM business advisor. of their experiences at Heights High. Michael J. Madorsky U (216) 321- 7729 Dr. Gladys Haddad, ’48; educator and Once again, the Imagemakers have author. done an excellent job identifying for us UÊFencesʇÊVÀ>vÌi`ÊvÀœ“ÊVi`>À For the finest Quality Jerome E. Jennings, ’99; musician and ten Heights High alumni of exceptional UÊPatiosʇÊLÀˆVŽÊœÀÊy>}Ã̜˜i teacher. character and stellar credentials who UÊDecksʇÊVi`>ÀʜÀÊVœ“«œÃˆÌi Since 1983 UÊPlantingsʇÊ`iÈ}˜ÊEʈ˜ÃÌ>i` Dr. Rebecca Spyke Keiser, ’87; researcher make perfect additions to a phenomenal and administrator. Hall of Fame.” Hundreds of Satisfied Cleveland Heights customers

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Heights Observer June 1, 2011 19 www.heightsobserver.org heights schools Night School increases Class of 2011

Susie Kaeser semester of the school year. Students starting early to try to close any credit content of the online curriculum with take a full course load during the day gaps and stay on track to graduate. their courses. According to Anderson, Every time a student graduates from at Heights High, then go to the media Nick Petty, principal of the Mosaic “The materials are wonderful. This is a high school there is reason to celebrate. center after school to make up their School, oversees the program. The guid- well thought out program. “ He or she has taken the critical first step missing credits using APEX, a Web- ance staff, in collaboration with the edu- APEX is used in all three of the high toward successful adulthood. Without a based curriculum. They get back on cation services team, handles placement school’s alternative programs, which diploma, life’s options are immediately track for graduation, saving themselves in the program. give students options for keeping up narrowed. —and taxpayers—the cost of another Mary Anderson is an English teacher when they fall behind, or accelerating Thanks to Night School, 45 Heights semester of high school. assigned to Night School on Mondays their learning to shorten their time in High seniors who would not have gradu- To graduate, students need 20 and Tuesdays, when students can take high school. About 60 students from ated this year will be receiving their credits, earned in a mix of required and any of the eight English courses required 9th to 12th grades, who have fallen far diplomas. That’s almost 10 percent of elective courses. Night School targets for graduation. She, like the other behind in the regular class environment, the 461-member senior class. seniors who need one or two required subject-area specialists who take turns are assigned full-time to Success Con- Night School is not a completely courses to graduate. A few participants staffing the labs, is there to grade essays, nections, where they benefit from the descriptive title for this program that are athletes who want to improve their help students understand the online self-directed and paced online setting. gives students the chance to close a GPAs in the hope of landing a college materials, and proctor tests as students Ten of these students will also graduate credit gap. It is held after school, from 4 scholarship. The five-year-old program complete the course. She is impressed in June. to 5:30 p.m., and only during the second also accommodates a few juniors who are that Heights teachers have aligned the Heights students can mix regular, teacher-led courses and online courses by choosing Opportunity Lab for one • Teaching me geometry and for being or two periods a day. They can work on Comments of gratitude patient when I’m foolish. several courses at once. For some, it is • Opening my mind to thinking in a the way to catch up; and for others, it Joy Henderson • Not giving up on me when I gave up whole new way. Your class changed my is a way to complete high school in less on myself. outlook on life. than four years. More than 100 Heights High students • Inspiring me to share my poetry with- • Putting up with me when I am dif- The standard high school format submitted Comments of Gratitude for out fear. You’ve helped me understand ficult and listening to me when I am does not fit every student. Heights is faculty and staff members. The thank myself, and to be more confident. in shambles. Thank you for letting promoting greater student success by you notes tell a story about how adults • Being an understanding principal who me cry and for telling me the things I valuing and accommodating the diver- inside the school make a big difference gave me good advice. You keep it real need to hear. sity of learners in its classrooms. These in the lives and learning experiences of and tell it how it is. • Thinking so highly of me when no one options are keeping kids in school who students. • Helping me get ready for college, even else would. might otherwise give up, helping more Here is a sample of the comments. through I’m only a sophomore. to finish on time, and ensuring that more Thank you for: • Showing me how to be dedicated. I Comments of Gratitude is a project of The students get off to a strong start by earn- • Believing in me. hope I can be as dedicated to my career Heights High Parent Connection Council. ing their high school diplomas. • Challenging me. You taught me how as you are to yours. The PCC also provided a May 6 Staff Ap- to bring ideas together and pick apart • Listening to me and helping me find preciation Luncheon for staff. Susie Kaeser, a longtime resident of Cleveland history to get a better understanding. I my voice! Heights and former director of Reaching learned to open up and consider other • Teaching me about history. It makes Joy Henderson is the parent/community Heights, recently joined the board of trustees points of view. me think before I act. liaison for Heights High. of the Home Repair Resource Center.

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ȗ‡„‡”ǡ –‘”•“—‹–›••‘ ‹ƒ–‹‘ ͖͕͚Ǧ͕͗͛Ǧ͔͔͔͗ ̰‡„‡”ǡ–ƒ‰‡‹”‡ –‘”•ƒ†Š‘”‡‘‰”ƒ’Š‡”•‘ ‹‡–› Ȉ“—‹–›‡„‡”•Š‹’ƒ†‹†ƒ–‡ —‡͝Ǧ͖͚ǡ͖͔͕͕ ™™™Ǥ ƒ‹’ƒ”Ǥ ‘ Š‘–‘‰”ƒ’Š›„›ƒ˜‹†‡”‡ŽƒǦ ƒŽŽ ƒ‹ƒ”ŽƒŠ‡ƒ–‡”

Heights Observer June 1, 2011 20 www.heightsobserver.org heights library Summer reading programs help Cleveland Heights-University prevent ‘summer learning loss’ Heights Public Library Board Sheryl Banks the theme, “One World, Many Stories,” will be encouraged to read in a variety With one of the worst winters and wet- of ways. They will be able to track their meeting highlights test springs on record finally behind us, reading over the summer months with we’re all ready for the joys of summer. a colorful mural in the children’s area, Swimming pools, parks, day camps, and participate in special events, such APRIL 25, 2011 playgrounds, amusement parks, and as a puppet workshop, a magic show, Chuck Collins was named interim adult services even just the backyard are some of the multicultural crafts, and a raffle with Board Member Jason Stein was absent. coordinator. favorite summer destinations for kids in prizes. Gifts and grants Crosswalk safety concerns our community who are ready to relax “It’s not like doing a book report,” The board accepted $550 in donations in Concern continues about the safety of the Lee and have fun after the school year. said Black. “We make reading fun for the memory of Everett L. Dodrill, Jr., a supporter of Road crosswalk between the buildings. It is poorly All that summer fun, however, can kids, and tie it in to all kinds of activities Dobama and a library user known for biking to marked and often ignored by motorists. This is be- lead to “summer learning loss,” a phe- that will spark young imaginations.” the library. ing discussed with Cleveland Heights Mayor Ed nomenon where kids sometimes lose Teens will have their own summer The board also accepted a grant awarded Kelley and the city’s public works director. the academic skills they gained during reading program, “You Are Here,” which to Children’s Associate Shamekia Chandler for a the school year. will also encourage summer reading with program called “Cinderella Around the Globe.” Library patrons cautioned “Kids who read or engage in other related activities. There will be a teen film In Chandler’s words, “Cinderella is one of the In the past six months a number of laptop thefts literacy-based activities over the summer festival to encourage them to explore the oldest and most beloved folktales in the world.” have occurred despite posted warnings regarding will retain more of their skills than kids connection between literature and film. Her program will allow local children to celebrate unattended possessions on tables and in meeting who don’t,” said Susan Black, children’s Children and teens can sign up this fairly tale in a multicultural context. rooms. services librarian. for summer reading programs at all That’s why Heights Libraries are four locations—Lee Road, University Noble Neighborhood Library reopening March public service report highlights: ready to combat that potential learn- Heights, Coventry Village, and Noble Architect James Duber was present to answer • Wii Wednesdays gave kids the opportunity to ing loss with fun-filled summer reading Neighborhood. For more information, questions about the Noble Library renovations. burn off energy in bad weather. activities for children and teens that will ask a children’s or teen librarian. Board Member Jim Posch expressed concern • Moving the large print material to the first floor make the library a summer destination, about letting the community know that the interior area formerly occupied by the ongoing book too. Sheryl Banks is the marketing and community renovation is only Phase 1. Phase 2 will be exterior sale has increased first-quarter circulation by Children who sign up for this year’s relations manager for the Cleveland Heights- repair that is obviously needed. It was agreed to 20 percent. summer reading program, which has University Heights Public Library. have signage at the Noble Library reopening to • The Photoshop Elements class was well re- indicate that. ceived, and a second part will be added. • Local author Paul Gaus, who writes the Resignations and appointments Amish mystery series, talked at the Coventry Free lunch program is back this There have been four resignations this month. Village Library. Jo Ann Vicarel introduced Deputy Director Catherine Hakala-Ausperk will the author. summer at the Lee Road Library become executive director of Northeast Ohio • Maggie Lindsey has tripled teen participation Regional Library System. Adult Services Coordi- at the Coventry Spot with more variety in daily Sheryl Banks literacy programming and services,” noted nator Alice Iden will become project manager for programs. Sam Lapides, the library’s interim young two merged nonprofit agencies. Serena Olson, With school out for the summer, children adult services coordinator and coordina- children’s services librarian, will work for the LWV observer: Anne S. McFarland. and teens in the Heights who rely on free tor of the summer lunch program. Tacoma (Washington) Public Library. Jeremiah school lunches face a potentially hungry The library has the capacity to serve Bryant, part-time adult services associate, has Look for earlier and often expanded summer. Cleveland Heights-University as many as 250 lunches, and invites all accepted a full-time position at Hyland Software. postings of meeting summaries online Heights Public Library is ready to help community children and youths up The board approved three appointments: Andrew at www.heightsobserver.org. again this year, by hosting the free sum- to age 18 to attend. Free lunch will Bray, circulation assistant; Peg Zitzner, technology See disclaimer on page 4. mer lunch program sponsored by the be served between 12 and 1 p.m. each trainer; and Anna Register, administrative assistant. Cleveland Foodbank. weekday, June 13 through Aug. 20. No According to the U.S. Department registration is required. of Agriculture, hunger is one of the “We are so excited about offering What’s going on at your library? greatest barriers to learning, and lack this program again this summer,” said of nutrition over the summer can lead Nancy Levin, Heights Libraries direc- University Heights Library to poor school performance once school tor. “We met many new families last starts again in the fall. summer, including a large group of new All Branches 13866 Cedar Road, University Hts., Summer Reading is here. Ask a librarian 216-321-4700 In addition to lunch, the library will immigrants. It is a perfect partnership about signing up for summer reading Monday, June 20–Wednesday, June 22, be serving up reading-related activities for our library.” programs for children, teens and adults. 4 p.m. and opportunities—kids can read books, For more information about the Babysitting Clinic play games, color, and sign up for the program, contact Sam Lapides at 216- summer reading program while enjoying 932-3600, ext. 290. Coventry Village Library Tuesday, June 14, 6 p.m. 1925 Coventry Road, 216-321-3400 Film series: The Drummer (Hong Kong / a healthy meal. Monday, June 2, 7 p.m. Taiwan/Germany, 2008) “This program enables us to fill the Sheryl Banks is the marketing and community Reading Comics Tuesday, June 21, 6 p.m. crucial nutritional needs of local children, relations manager for the Cleveland Heights- Wednesdays, June 8–29, 4 p.m. Film series: Troubled Water (Norway, 2008) while also offering opportunities for early University Heights Public Library. Possibilitarian Puppet Workshop 2011 Best of the Heights Awards Lee Road Library 2345 Lee Road, 216-932-3600 Vote for your favorite local business. Now through Aug. 31 Friday, June 7, 3 p.m. Ballot on back page, or vote online at www.futureheights.org Teen Summer Cooking Competition Kick Off classified ads Wednesday, June 15, 7 p.m. Pet Show Tuesday, June 21, 7 p.m. Wake Up and MJM Third Tuesday Book Club: Await Your Reply Smell the Coffee! Window Restoration by Dan Chaon x Repair/Restore Existing Call 216-513-3070 This is More Windows x Maintain the Historic Look to find out how you can Noble Neighborhood Library Than Just of your Heights Home 2800 Noble Road, 216-291-5665 Coffee. x More Cost Effective than advertise your business for as Monday, June 13, 7 p.m. It’s Super Foods in Every Cup! Replacement Windows Moving and Music the Preschool Way x Increase Energy Efficiency low as $22/month. 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heights shops Seitz-Agin Hardware to close this month

Frank Tascone ones just passed.” Children may inquire what is to Seitz-Agin Hardware, a mainstay in become of Rocky, “the hardware dude.” Cleveland Heights for 66 years, will close Borwick said the big teddy bear, who this month. Owner Joel Borwick cited greets customers near the entrance, the economic climate as the reason for “may be headed to my granddaughter closing. or he may be headed to the highest bid- “When the recession hit it just der.” seemed to change everything,” Borwick Borwick said he has no plans to leave explained. “Business really went down the area. He will continue as president and the bottom line is we lost money of the Heights Youth Club. “I’ve always for the last year or two. I can’t do that believed in giving back to the commu- forever, and I don’t see how it’s going to nity, and I think I’ve done that over the come back.” years. I love the community, really, and Borwick bought the store 38 years that’s what it’s all about. So right now I

ago when he was looking to get into the frank tascone have no plans to move.” retail business. “Somebody knew some- Joel Borwick, owner of Seitz-Agin Hardware, advises a customer. body who knew the people who owned Frank Tascone teaches writing and literature this place, and they got us together, Smith said people have been shocked to ladies out a couple weeks ago in tears. at the University of Mount Union and is a and lo and behold, I owned a hardware see the inventory down. “I sent a couple It’s like you told them one of their loved Cleveland Heights resident. store.” The store, which is named after the previous owners, has enjoyed a zeal- ous patronage in Cleveland Heights. “The community is very loyal to Ten Thousand Villages opens at Cedar Fairmount those who are loyal to them and those who give back to the community,” Bor- Kaye Lowe received by TTVC. Entire villages are wick said. often involved in producing crafts, pro- He also credits his employees and Ten Thousand Villages of Cleveland viding a better quality of life.” their ability to deliver good service. (TTVC) has relocated from downtown “Other places give you help and hand Cleveland to the former Grapevine loca- Kaye Lowe is the executive director of the you something,” Borwick explained, tion in the Cedar Fairmount Business Cedar Fairmount Special Improvement “but I can’t think of too many where you District. The relocation marks seven District. come in with, let’s say a faucet stem, and years in the Cleveland area. they’ll walk in the back room, clean it The new store, which opened in Ten Thousand Villages out, put the washer on for you and come May, is slightly larger and will offer the Mon.–Fri. 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m.; back and ask for fifty cents.” same one-of-a-kind, handcrafted prod- Sat. 10 a.m.– 9 p.m. Borwick is concerned about his ucts as the former downtown store. Sun. 11 a.m.– 6 p.m. Ten Thousand Villages is a local, employees. “The truth of the matter is, 12425 Cadar Road, Cleveland Heights they’re not really employees—they’re national, and international business friends. They’re the reason I probably leader with a commitment to social and 216-575-1058 stayed as long as I have. But every one environmental responsibilities. This fair- jeff balase Ten Thousand Villages on Cedar Road. of them is bright and I’m sure every one trade retailer of artisan-crafted home of them will land on their feet. They all décor, personal accessories and gift items understand what’s going on.” All but one from across the globe features products employee has been at Seitz-Agin for at from more than 130 artisan groups in least 30 years. some 38 countries. Borwick does not believe the big The large selection of items includes box stores are to blame for loss of busi- hand-woven scarves from India, colorful ness. “I’ve worked with them for 15 years earrings from Peru, hand carved statues almost, and to be frank they have not and baskets from Africa, pottery from really been an issue. Maybe they kept Mexico, and much more. me from growing, but we managed very As one of the world’s oldest and well.” He holds that the economy hurt largest fair-trade organizations, Ten contractors, which in turn hurt store Thousand Villages has spent more than sales. He noted that some contractors 60 years cultivating trading relationships are starting to find more work, but in which artisans receive a fair price for added that much of it seems to be on their work, while providing consum- a smaller scale: “Instead of repairing a ers access to distinctive handcrafted bathroom or a kitchen, they’re repairing items. It is a founding member of the “respect the food, a gutter outside.” World Fair Trade Organization, a global The main issue, according to Bor- network of more than 350 fair-trade don’t mess with it too much wick, is that customer needs have organizations in 70 countries. and the end result changed. In the past, customers “just Corrinne Wallner, chair of TTVC’s knew or for some reason were raised board of directors, has been involved with will always be great.” knowing how to fix things. Customers the group for the past seven years. She jill vedaa executive chef basically knew what they wanted. They said, “Ten Thousand Villages creates fair still needed help, but they would do it trade and a fair wage for artisans to help themselves.” He’s observed a change them improve their quality of life.” She among younger customers. “They’re so spoke of a woman who was able to send busy working to make a living—I’ve got her son and daughter to college with the a Sunday and that’s about all I have, and income provided from TTVC. I want to spend it with my children.” “Artisans are paid half the cost, When asked about customer re- when the order is placed,” said Wallner, restaurant+lounge | 216.321.0477 and the remainder when the crafts are action, Seitz-Agin employee Ramone 3099 mayfield road | cleveland heights, ohio rockefellers-restaurant.com tuesday through saturday 4 pm to 1 am New Location – in the Garden Room of Paysage

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Kelli Fontenot present during that time period—as “A remarkable number of businesses that I haven’t seen for 40 years, and well as customers, residents, and former that were established in that time period people who are going to come in from At a reunion this summer, merchants members of the now-defunct Coventry are still around. We’re putting out the as far away as Australia to hang out with and local residents who were active in Neighbors—the reunion is open to all call to anyone and everyone who was us.” Hundreds of people are expected to the Coventry Village Business District who would like to attend. there at the time, to come on in and tell be there, Strong said. during the 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s can swap Participants are encouraged to share their stories,” Strong said, explaining The reunion is scheduled to take stories with friends and help document their recollections with Mark Souther, that she and others in the community place on June 18 from about 2–5 p.m. community history. a Cleveland State University professor had noticed that the era has not yet been at Coventry P.E.A.C.E. Park, where Coventry residents Ellen Strong who will be taking histories. Strong documented. She hopes the reunion will attendees will be able to buy food pro- and Marcia Polevoi are organizing the indicated that video and audio record- make a difference. vided by Tommy’s restaurant. More event with Steve Presser, owner of Big ings collected during the event might be “It was a time of great change. information about the reunion is at Fun Toy Store and president of Cov- included in a segment for the Cleveland Coventry went from being a small www.coventryvillage.org. entry Merchants Association. Strong Memory Project, a searchable collec- sleepy neighborhood to a place that was said that although the reunion is aimed tion of digital resources on Cleveland opening up to new ideas. I am looking Kelli Fontenot is a journalist living in at bringing back merchants who were history. forward to seeing old friends and people Cleveland Heights. Fadi Kdayssi’s VideoDub handles diverse video formats for CIFF Jewel Moulthrop who converts video submissions to the Cleveland International Film Festival Remember purchasing your first VCR (CIFF) to the format that the festival and having to choose between Beta and uses in screening movies for its audi- VHS formats? While VHS dominated ences. Because filmmakers from at least the consumer market, Beta became the 60 different countries submit movies to preferred format among video profes- CIFF, Kdayssi is a busy man in the weeks sionals worldwide. before the festival’s opening night, and But it didn’t end there. Both here even during the run of the film festival. and overseas, dozens of other formats Films selected for the festival be- developed, along with DVD technol- gin to trickle in about five to six weeks ogy; and the situation couldn’t be more before the event’s opening night. Like confusing. There are source formats taxpayers waiting until the last minute (what comes out of the camera), editing to file their returns, many filmmakers are formats, sharing formats, and archiving reluctant to release their projects in ad- formats. vance, making adjustments to their films courtesy fadi kdayssi fadi courtesy Although some filmmakers still until the last possible moment. That Fadi Kdayssi in his VideoDub International studio. shoot film, an increasing number are means long hours for Kdayssi in the final turning to video. That’s where Fadi days before the festival begins. verters from England, and a few other CIFF’s equipment. Kdayssi’s VideoDub Kdayssi, president of VideoDub Interna- Kdayssi started VideoDub in the pieces of equipment. As his business is the only company in Cleveland with tional, and a Cleveland Heights resident mid-1980s with a small office in the expanded, Kdayssi moved his company the capability to convert these formats, for 25 years, comes in. He’s the go-to guy Hanna Building, a couple of video con- to a larger space, and added an impres- thereby providing a fast turn-around for sive array of professional equipment to late submissions. handle the demands of his growing client The walls of VideoDub Interna- base in television and video production, tional are neatly lined with racks holding and in the corporate world. dozens of broadcast and professional “Kdayssi’s VideoDub has been essen- video recorders, computers, and so- tial to our industry for over two decades,” phisticated video processing and testing said Reggie Carter, a videographer and equipment. In addition to converting regular client. “We don’t know what we materials from one format to another, would do without him.” Kdayssi is adept at enhancing them for With the new technologies, movie optimum visual and auditory quality—an 75th Anniversary submissions to the festival began arriving important skill when working with the Saturday, June 18th in a variety of different and incompatible output of new filmmakers. formats. That is when David Wittkowsky, Kdayssi said he is happy to be one of Bring Your Family & Neighbors volunteer and later executive director the sponsors of the film festival. “CIFF to Our In-Store Celebration! of the festival, turned to VideoDub to not only enhances Cleveland’s reputa- convert them. It was also the start of tion,” he added, “but it also provides a a successful and ongoing relationship great showcase for new filmmakers from Activities Will Include: between Kdayssi and the festival. around the world.” Currently, about 70 percent of the Session on how to , get the best coupons Magician movie submissions CIFF receives are in Jewel Moulthrop is Cleveland Heights Face Painting and savings – digital formats. Kdayssi converts them resident and a member of editorial advisory presented by and Balloon to a single format that is compatible with committee for the Heights Observer. “Joe the Coupon Guy” Making

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Heights Observer June 1, 2011 24 www.heightsobserver.org heights arts Mac’s Backs event to celebrate local comic book authors HeightsWrites Dana Finley on the foreclosure that Pekar gave him his first exposure crisis. to the world of underground comic Poem for June 2011 Though underground comic book writer “I interviewed a books. The trees are finally in full leaf, and the Harvey Pekar died last July, his works lot of people in “Who would be willing to have Cleveland Indians have the best record in continue to be released posthumously. Cleveland,” Tob- two teenagers over to his apartment major league baseball. We dare to hope, and His latest book, Huntington, West Vir- ocman said. “The and show us comics that we weren’t al- the stadium fills. Not so fast, warns the poet, ginia ‘On the Fly’ (Random House) was economic crisis lowed to buy?” Tobocman asked with a it’s early in the season. released April 26 and will be celebrated is getting deeper chuckle. “He was quite an anomaly to —Meredith Holmes on June 2 at an event at Mac’s Backs on and people need us. He got us free sci-fi books out of the Coventry Road. to address it po- VA hospital.” Shakespearean Baseball The book chronicles Pekar’s en- litically.” Tobocman’s early encounters with Sonnet #105 counters with a variety of characters Tobocman will the underground comic book scene by Michael Ceraolo in his everyday life, including a chapter present a slideshow grew into a lifelong occupation. He has titled “Neighborhood Spark Plug,” de- presentation at authored many comic books focusing Let not the phenom be shown idolatry voted to Steve Presser, owner of Coven- the bookstore on local and international politics, After an admittedly great first game; try’s Big Fun. about the foreclo- including Three Cities Against the Wall, Save alike all the songs and praises be Suzanne DeGaetano of Mac’s Backs sure crisis. Disaster and Resistance, and War in the Till he is more deserving of such fame: softskullpress random house softskullpress explained that, along with celebrating The book Neighborhood. Though having a dazzling array of the release of Pekar’s new book, the delves into how Wall Street fueled the For more information about the June pitches, bookstore event will also host fellow economic fire with the help of Washing- 2 event, visit www.macsbacks.com. Hype may make him too big for his Cleveland Heights native and comic ton politics, while explaining the logis- book artist Seth Tobocman, who re- tics behind mortgage-backed securities, Observer intern Dana Finley, editor-in- britches; cently wrote his own graphic book Un- derivatives and foreclosures. chief of Shaker Heights High School’s news- The specter of injury always lurks derstanding the Crash with Eric Lauresen Tobocman also had a unique con- paper, The Shakerite, will attend Boston Hidden and ready to gum up the and Jessica Wehrle. The book focuses nection to Pekar as a teenager. He said University in the fall to study journalism. works. And let us not forget the other side, Hitters stung in their professional pride dependents Week, which promotes the To make necessary tweaks at the plate. Summer heats up on Coventry locally-owned, independent merchants So let us go slow anointing him great: Heights Observer staff who make our community unique.” sidewalk sales and host special events. On July 21, Coventry P.E.A.C.E. Stuff, makeup, luck have often lived Coventry Village, the street known Neighborhood restaurants will also offer Park will be the site of the notorious pie alone, for its eclectic mix of merchants and specials. fight. “It lasts about 30 seconds,” said Which three have but rarely kept seat patrons, will host a number of fun- A new feature of the festival is a Presser, “but there’s nothing that’s more in one. filled events this summer designed to main stage at the north end of Coventry fun than hitting your friends—and total that will host an exciting mix of bands. strangers—in the face with a whipped celebrate the artist and free spirit in Michael Ceraolo, a resident of Willough- There will be two music sessions, from cream-filled pie crust.” all of us. The Coventry Village Special by Hills and self-described civil servant, noon to 2 p.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m. “Coventry Village is always looking Improvement District (SID) will spon- is the author of one full-length book, During the break, from 2 to 4 p.m., for volunteers for our summer events sor two arts festivals, a music and movie Euclid Creek (Deep Cleveland Press) Passport Project will present a dance and sponsorships are greatly appreci- series, and a pie fight. and several chapbooks. “Shakespearean performance. ated,” said Presser. For more informa- This year’s Coventry Village Street Baseball Sonnet #105” is from Ceraolo’s There will be plenty of opportuni- tion, contact him at steve@bigfunbigfun. Arts Fests will be bigger and better Baseball á la Shakespeare. than ever. According to Steve Presser, ties for festival attendees to support the com. marketing director for the Coventry activities. The Coventry Village SID is considering enabling residents to donate Village SID, organizers are expecting Free Elder Law Community Seminar a huge turnout. “We’ve moved the fes- online, holding a 50/50 raffle, and placing tivals from a weekday to a Sunday and a donation box at the festival. “As always, expanded the hours,” he said, adding funding is tight,” said Presser, “but the that “it’s still free, family oriented and festival will remain free, and we appre- Ask the Expert: 5 Tips to help plan for Long Term Care open to the public.” ciate the goodwill of this community in Medicaid - Medicare - VA Bene ts Questions Answered The two festivals will be held on helping us keep it that way.” Sunday, June 26, and Sunday, July 24, Thursday evenings, from June 23 from noon to 6 p.m., and will feature through Aug. 4, the Coventry Village Beachwood Community Center, Chagrin Room dance, music and drum circles, said SID will host a music and movie series 25325 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, OH 44122 Presser. “The Cleveland Museum of at Coventry P.E.A.C.E. Park. The eve- Art and the Progressive Arts Alliance nings will start with music at 7:30 p.m., Limited seating: are just two of the organizations we are followed by a movie at 9 p.m. RSVP at 991-5222 (KABB) partnering with this year. We’ll have “Not all of the movies are chosen or [email protected] giant puppets, Flower Clown, jugglers, yet,” said Presser, “but the series kicks Light refreshments provided. The difference is care. stilt walkers, a local farmers market, off with ‘The Wizard of Oz’ on June artists, arts and crafts, and a variety of 23. On Thursday, June 30, we will show Rachel Kabb-Effron, Esq. 216.991.5222 (KABB) musicians all along the street.” ‘Madagascar.’ On July 7, we will show an Certified Elder Law Specialist www.kabblaw.com Coventry merchants will hold independent film to help celebrate In-

A Night In Rio Join us for an exciting summer party to benefit the Cleveland Restoration Society. SATURDAY, JULY 23, 2011 7:00 P.M. TO 10:00 P.M.

Dinner, dancing, music and entertainment await you as you tour the award-winning restoration of one of Fairmount Boulevard’s most beautiful historic home and garden settings.

Ticket price: $175 per person VIP Tickets: $250 per person

For more information or reservations, contact Felicia at 216-426-3110 or visit www.clevelandrestoration.org.

Heights Observer June 1, 2011 25 www.heightsobserver.org Bruce Springsteen taken at the Richfield Coliseum in 1980 by Anastasia Pata- nos.

heights arts Heights photographers show rock music photos on Waterloo

Heights Observer Staff

Cleveland has been a hotbed of rock and roll for more than five decades. “Visual Music: Northeast Ohio Photographers Look at Rock and Roll” presents the work of a dozen photographers who lived and worked in Northeast Ohio since the 1960s. Among them are three photographers who live and work in Cleveland Heights: G.M Donley, Aaron Featured Performers at the South end of Coventry at Euclid Heights: Mendelsohn, and Anastasia Pantsios, who is organizing and curating the Bluegrasstafaria with Katty Whompus Noon-2 PM show.

The show opens at the Zaller Build- atanos Roots Reggae with 4-6 PM ing Gallery at 16006 Waterloo Road I-Tal in the Collinwood neighborhood of nastasia P A nastasia Dance performance by Passport Project between music acts Cleveland, a block from the Beachland Bruce Springsteen at the Richfield Coliseum in Ballroom, on Saturday, June 11, with a 1980. Plus additional live bands all day at the North end of Coventry at Mayfield reception from 7 to 11 p.m. It’s free and open to the public. It will run through and a member of the board of Heights Cleveland Museum of Art: Hands on Children’s projects Saturday, June 25, concluding with an Arts. He creates overlapping images to Passport Project: Art, Music and Dance all-day open house from noon–8 p.m., express the passage of time. to coincide with the Waterloo Arts Fes- Aaron Mendelsohn has traveled Progressive Arts Alliance: Music and Dance tival. around the country shooting festivals and Over the years, the talented photog- special events as well as covering concerts GIANT PUPPETS • STILTWALKERS raphers in this show have documented close to home at the Grog Shop. Cleveland’s vibrant music scene from The show also features work by BALLOON TWISTERS • JUGGLERS • MAGICIANS the Beatles to Bruce Springsteen to Ken Blaze, Jay Brown, Bob Ferrell, Joe the White Stripes. Longtime Coventry Kleon, Bryon Miller, Karen Novak, ARTS and CRAFTS • FRUITS and VEGGIES Village resident Anastasia Pantsios has Stephanie Saniga, George Shuba, and FOOD from Local Restaurants been shooting for 40 years, since she Linda Woods. All have created distinc- SPONSORED BY: came to town to attend college. She cur- tive bodies of work. “Visual Music” will rently has a show at the Rock and Roll be largest survey of local music photog- Hall of Fame and Museum titled “Girls raphy ever assembled, with almost 200 on Film: 40 Years of Women in Rock.” prints. G.M. Donley is head of creative For more information, look for Coventry P.E.A.C.E services at the Cleveland Museum of Art “Visual Music” on Facebook.

Heights resident wins Cleveland Arts Prize

DRIVE-IN STYLE MOVIES

WITHOUT THE CARS! goldberg stacy courtesy Grab a Bite at one of Coventry’s Great Food Vendors, Marsha Dobrzynski with students from Roxboro Elementary School who worked with Young Audiences Bring Your Blankets and Lounge With Your Family artists on a Chinese cultural art residency. And Friends On the Lawn of the Coventry School PEACE Playground at the Corner of Coventry, Euclid Hts. Stacy Goldberg budget of nearly $2 million and serves & Washington in Cleveland Heights. more than 242,000 children each year. Cleveland Heights resident Marsha Her goal remains to introduce an in- 0XVLFDW30‡)LOPVDURXQG30 Dobrzynski was selected as a 2011 Cleve- creasing number of children to the joy These events are Free to the Public. land Arts Prize recipient for her role as and excitement of the arts. All Are Welcome! executive director of Young Audiences. The mission of Young Audiences is Sponsored by Coventry P.E.A.C.E. and the Coventry Village Special Improvement District Since 1994, her work has inspired young to enrich the lives of children and pro- people in Northeast Ohio through arts mote creative learning by uniting arts and education. and education. Young Audiences offers Dobrzynski will receive the Martha programs in dance, theater, music and Joseph Prize for Distinguished Service visual art. to the Arts at the 51st Cleveland Arts With a legacy of service in offering Prize Award event on Tuesday, June 28, quality, hands-on experiential learning in at 6 p.m. the arts, Young Audiences has more than When Dobrzynski assumed the 110 experienced teaching artists who not leadership of Young Audiences, the orga- only excel in their art form, but also love Thursday, June 23 Thursday, June 30 nization was on the verge of bankruptcy. working with and inspiring children of Through her tireless commitment to all ages. Find out more about Coventry’s free summer establishing a financially sound organi- activities at www.coventryvillage.org zation, with the capacity to serve many Stacy Goldberg, director of marketing for ALL EVENTS ARE FREE AND ALL ARE WELCOME! children, she turned things around. Young Audiences, is a resident of Cleveland Today, Young Audiences operates on a Heights.

Heights Observer June 1, 2011 26 www.heightsobserver.org coheimmguhtsnity a rntsews Heights Arts expands on Lee Road

Peggy Spaeth

Heights Arts has been envisioning an arts center for more than 10 years. In the beginning, we imagined converting the former stables on the Severance property into such a facility, but realized that as a new organization we needed arts heights courtesy to build our own infrastructure rather and performance space. We’re plan- than rebuild a physical structure. Then, ning movable walls so that the space is the library offered us space in its newly flexible, and we are especially excited acquired YMCA, which was slated to be that we’ll be able to seat 75 people for developed into a community art space. concerts and other events. As we waited several years for that con- Recently, the Community Partner- Saturday, June 11 struction to be approved and finished, ship for Arts and Culture published In University Circle we settled into a 900-square-foot store- “Putting Artists on the Map,” a study front near the Cedar Lee Theatre—not of Greater Cleveland artists’ locations. Circle Village 11 a.m.–4 p.m. exactly what one might envision as an We were not surprised that the county’s arts center, but it became one as we artist sector is concentrated in Cleveland Parade at noon developed programs that connected our Heights by a wide margin (17.9 percent community with its creative residents. of all respondents), because that is why Free When the library space finally became Heights Arts was founded. A dozen available, we kept our Lee Road gallery years ago, we recognized this city as the and added art classes and workshops at epicenter of a rich cultural region. the library. The summary report further said, Next, we actively advocated turn- “Artist-based community development is ing the former Coventry Elementary more than opening an art gallery or hav- School into an arts center, but again ing an artist move into a neighborhood.” we were not positioned to take on a Indeed, Heights Arts was founded on major project. Eventually, the library’s the premise that capitalizing on our priorities changed and the one-time community’s rich artistic resources art space there became a computer lab. would positively impact all aspects of Our classes and workshops were tem- community life: community-building, porarily homeless. But we always kept economic development, education and our eye on that prize of establishing a public spaces. multidisciplinary art space where artists, With our expansion, we are doing musicians, and writers could expand the just that. This is possible because our scope of our community’s access to a community believes what we believe: broad range of artistic endeavors. that the arts simply make life better. Last year, a storefront adjacent to the The gallery’s next show, “Building gallery became available. It was our Gol- Below the Radar,” will open Friday, June dilocks moment: This one is just right! 10, with a reception from 6 to 9 p.m. The space—previously a Starbucks and The show illustrates, through construc- then a sushi restaurant­— provides us with tions and visual displays, three distinct a total of 2,400 square feet that opens to approaches to architecture in Cleveland the adjacent public minipark. We began today by small, independent architecture fundraising a year ago with a lead grant firms doing high-quality work: Anthony from the George Gund Foundation, then Paskevich & Associates, Kordalski Ar- signed a lease in October, and started chitects, and Studio Techne. construction in April. More than 350 To learn about upcoming classes and individuals have made donations to make workshops, shows, concerts, and public this renovation happen. art projects, or to make a renovation do- The new space will bring to street nation, please visit www.heightsarts.org. level our office (which has been on the second floor of the building) and a new Peggy Spaeth is the executive director of classroom, as well as expanded display Heights Arts. ‘Klezmer Guy’ at Nighttown

Heights Observer staff Stratton reads comedic prose sketches and plays clarinet, accompanied Bert Stratton, the leader of the klezmer by Alan Douglass on vocals and piano. band Yiddishe Cup, performs “Klezmer This fuel-injected show has no brakes. Guy,” an original prose-and-music show It is a nudnik/beatnik show, with music at Nighttown on Tuesday, June 14, at ranging from “St. James Infirmary” to 7:30 p.m. “The Berkowitz-Kumin Rag.” Stratton’s son, Jack, is on drums. Jack Stratton produced, recorded and played on the album “Starship,” which is currently #1 on Billboard’s “Top Cast Albums” chart. Bert Stratton’s prose pieces have appeared most recently in The New York Times and The Forward. Tickets are $10. For more informa- tion, visit at www.nighttowncleveland.com or call 216-797-0550. courtesy bert stratton bert courtesy Bert Stratton (L) and Alan Douglass.

Heights Observer June 1, 2011 27 www.heightsobserver.org 2 011 Cast your BEST OF THE HEIGHTS ballot today for AWARDS Best of the Heights!

Complete this ballot or go online to: Best New Business Best Place for Kosher Options www.futureheights.org Deadline for ballot submission: Best Customer Service Best Dining Ambiance August 31, 2O11.

Please Note! Best Realtor Best Boutique or Specialty Shop Voting is for Cleveland Heights and University Heights localities only. Best Auto Service Best Place to Get Healthy One ballot per person. In order for your ballot to be counted, you need to vote for at least half (11) of the ballot Best Looking Store Front Best Place for Pets catagories, and include your name and contact information. Ballots not meeting these requirements will be considered invalid. Best Breakfast or Brunch Best Live Entertainment Mail your ballot to: FutureHeights Best Casual Meal Best Place to Take the Kids 2163 Lee Road #103 Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 Questions? Call 216-320-1423 Best Ethnic Eats Best Salon or Spa

Name: Best Place for Vegetarian Cuisine Best Grocery Store Straightforward Price Address: Best Place for Sweet Treats Favorite University Heights Business

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Heights Observer June 1, 2011 28 www.heightsobserver.org