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FAIRVIEW PARK & ROCKY RIVER COMMUNITIES | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014

Rocky River Resident Is Volunteer Extraordinaire Tri-C’s Board Student Scholar I’m With Mojo By Kristin Broka In 1980, when Tabanji was 18, she By Jim Tishman fled war-torn Lebanon with her family Rocky River resident Mireille “Miro” and took refuge in Jordan. She left her It started in early 2010 Tabanji — the 2014-2015 Board Student homeland without graduating from high when my wife, Rosine, Scholar at Cuyahoga Community school, as the fighting often forced her to insisted I do something College (Tri-C®) — can tell you all about abandon class. besides read the sports page perseverance. Now, a quarter-century later and and bond with the remote. half-a-world away from the turmoil of There was an article in her youth, Tabanji is working toward an the paper inviting people associate degree at Tri-C. to attend a volunteer “I have big dreams I want to orientation class given by the accomplish,” said Tabanji. Don’t bet Berea Animal Rescue. It was against her. strongly suggested I attend When her family moved to the United this class. States in 1985, Tabanji was determined Well, I got hooked and a few to learn English and earn her high school months later, in April, five- diploma. She quickly reached those year old “Matt” (due to his milestones and set her sights on college matted state) was brought Mojo, a licensed therapy dog, dressed to bring and higher education. into the shelter. I fell in love smiles to everyone. Life provided a few detours, though. with the little guy. Rosine She met the love of her life, Tony, married and I decided to foster him, and had her first son, Anthony. She had renamed him Mojo (after an and patients alike make sure Mojo gets Mireille “Miro” Tabanji Student Scholar page 2 old Blues song, “Got My Mojo Working“) lots of belly rubs and ear scratches. We and took him home. A few days later, walk into individual rooms and the we became what is known as “Foster patients just smile and say, “Mojo’s here!” Failures” - we decided he had to become Sometimes I have to remind them that a permanent family member. I’m with Mojo. Makes me happy to see Being new to the rescue scene, we hired them happy. Mojo hops onto a bed or a a trainer to guide us through the first few lap and does what he does best: naps. months. Because of Mojo’s cheerful and Sitting vigil with patients has been an experience I’ll never forget. Helping Dine To Donate laid-back nature, the trainer encouraged us to have him trained and tested for a them and their families ease the Cancer Fundraiser Therapy Dog license. transition from this life to the next can By Debbie Simone Therapy Dogs International gave us be heartbreaking, but at the same time names of facilities that would like a knowing that Mojo and I are helping Join us for our cancer support therapy dog visit. So far, we have over 600 ease some of their anxiety is what it’s all fundraiser Dine To Donate. Tommy’s visits recorded in the western suburbs! about. Place, located at 1325 Linda St. in Rocky Most of these visits were in Alzheimer’s Through the Hospice, Mojo and I River, will donate 10% of all food item units. We discovered that Mojo, through have been to several veteran pinning purchases on Saturday, November 15, his human grandmother, has a special ceremonies, birthday celebrations, from 6 p.m. until closing. bond with these very special patients. special dinners (the food at Ames is Proceeds will be donated to help great) and, yes, funerals. The families Mike Broda who was diagnosed with a A First often request our presence at the last rare blood cancer. He has been given a Naturally, many of our patients moved farewell. Mojo has even been invited to a limited time to live. Mike and his family on to palliative or hospice care. Mojo and funeral mass and several church services. are in need of funds for medical bills, a I decided to train to become volunteers Thank goodness the little guy can nap anywhere! mortgage and general daily care. Billy Donato, Las Vegas Showman, with the Hospice of the Western Reserve. • The fundraiser will include door prizes, will be performing at Tommy’s Place Mojo is the first West Side Pet Therapy raffles, a Chinese auction, and a vintage on November 15. Dog licensed by the Hospice of the Jim Tishman is a volunteer for the jewelry sale…plus a special appearance Western Reserve. Our regular Wednesday Hospice of the Western Reserve. He by Billy Donato - Las Vegas Showman. onto the stage, Billy will touch your visits to Ames Family House in Westlake takes Mojo to visit hospice patients Billy’s show will start at 8:30 p.m. life in a way you will long remember. “I are uplifting. The staff at Ames is like and veterans for end-of-life comfort Billy’s high-energy interactive embrace audiences from all countries, family. and companionship, primarily in show is the trademark of his musical of all ages, with a love and passion as To see the smiles on the faces of Rocky River, Fairview and Westlake performance while representing a true if they were family and friends in the patients (and the staff) when we - okay, communities. Jim and his wife Rosine variety of styles and eras. This multi- living room of my home – a real family when Mojo walks in is rewarding. Staff live in Fairview Park. talented performer captivates audiences reunion.” Visit Billy Donato’s website to internationally, bringing song and dance preview his professional shows at www. to life, all with warm comedic flair. billydonato.com. we wish you a A native of Cleveland and graduate of I am asking for the support of the warm, wonderful, and John Carroll University, Billy’s one-man community on November 15 whether show has been seen at major casinos on it be by coming to Tommy’s Place for the Las Vegas Strip, on international dinner and drinks, buying raffle tickets, cruise ships, and with the world- making a cash donation, or seeing Billy’s renowned Cleveland Pops Orchestra. wonderful Las Vegas performance. For During the Gulf War, Billy’s public service more information, call Debbie at 440- announcements were heard worldwide 382-6789. • Happy on the U.S. Armed Forces Radio Network. He has also had principle roles on stage Debbie Simone is the owner of and television and in film. The Ritzy Chic. The shop helps With a magnetic presence that the support cancer survivors through its Thanksgiving audience can sense the moment he steps consignments and sales. 2 THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 ROCKPORT FILES

Student Scholar from page 1 a second son, Nathan, and took college love helping people,” Tabanji said. “But A Note from the Publisher classes intermittently while raising her most of all, I love to challenge myself and family. learn more.” ho would’ve thought that starting this paper would attract the man of In 2005, Tabanji and her husband A tribute to her hard work and Wmy dreams… opened a fitness center, which they dedication, Tabanji was named Tri-C’s I grew up in the “perfect” neighborhood...where our neighbors were considered successfully ran for three years. After Board Student Scholar for the 2014- Family. Two summers ago the Morris’ who lived two doors from us hosted a Labor selling the business, she decided to focus 2015 academic year. She was sworn into Day picnic with the Byers family; who lived just a few miles away but spent a lot on her college education. “It was time for the post at last month’s meeting of the of time on our street. Mrs. Morris (Sally) shared my second issue of The Rockport me to do something for myself,” Tabanji Cuyahoga County Board of Trustees. Observer with the Byers Family. One of the son’s visiting from Los Angeles noted said of her decision to go to Tri-C. In her new role, Tabanji is responsible my name as Publisher. She began with the Career Exploration for meeting with student government Five months later he saw my name in a comment on a mutual friend’s Facebook class at Tri-C’s Corporate College West in leaders on all four campuses and bringing page. He sent me a message asking if I was one of the Leonard sisters from Kleber Westlake and learned a lot about herself. any of their concerns or issues to the Street and neighbors of the Morris family…I responded “Yes!”...Indeed! Who Tabanji also became actively involved board. She meets monthly with student would’ve thought in this time of “social media” that The Rockport Observer with Student Life programs at the and college leaders in preparation for her would be the medium for the message of Love?! …and the announcement of our College. board presentation. wedding on November 15, 2014? When the Westshore Campus in “Being selected as the Board Student The many connections we have unveiled since our meeting have been Westlake opened in 2011, Tabanji was Scholar is an amazing honor and remarkable. When Brian asked his Mom if she remembered The Leonard’s, she hired as a student ambassador and challenge that I am excited for,” Tabanji said “Oh, I know LuAnn very well”. Brian, a bit shocked, said, “Why, very well?” She joined student government as secretary. said. recalled that I was her “go-to person” at Trumbull Industries after a fire in their The following year, she was elected vice Her goal is to complete her associate home. Discovering that there are no “degrees of separation” between countless president of the student government and degree within the next year and friends, relatives, schoolmates and the like has been just one of the simple joys of became president of the newly formed transfer to a four-year school to pursue our new relationship. Westshore International Club. a bachelor’s degree in communications Since neither one of us has ever been married, we continue to feel incredibly “I like to be involved on campus and and Middle Eastern studies. • blessed with the joy and support from family and friends, who with us look forward to our long life together. For this and so much more, we are Thankful. Finally, most important, thank you for picking this up, taking a look, and giving it a go. We hope you find something you enjoy and pass it along to a friend (or For All We Have someone you love). Happy Thanksgiving!

A table with chairs, that welcome sight — LuAnn Leonard Our family, our friends, pure delight Publisher

A caring kiss with a gentle smile Each tender hug lasts that country mile

The presence of love so fills the air This gift of God brings our hearts so near The soon-to-be Mr. & Mrs. Brian Byers.

Reflections of past bring nurtured thought Community news powered by the Great visions come by, what life has taught citizens of Rocky River & Fairview Park

Check out our Web site at In thankful ways we embrace this day Volume 2 | Issue 5 TheRockportObserver.com And often think of loved ones away

With a current circulation of 5,000 copies distributed to over 250 locations in the Fairview Park, Kamm’s Corners, and Rocky River community and via our Web Those serving us proud are often gone site, The Rockport Observer is a community media initiative whose mission is to But their spirit remains, closely drawn involve, engage, inform and converse with neighbors in what was once known as Ohio’s Rockport community. The views and opinions expressed in the publication do not necessarily reflect that of The Rockport Observer, its publisher or staff. Copyright 2014-The Rockport Observer, All right reserved. Any reproduction or Our Nation should praise each special one use of the content within without expressed written consent is forbidden. For all we have is through what they’ve done The Rockport Observer is a locally-owned and operated citizen-based news source written by community writers. Stories are accepted in the order received (save for time-sensitive community event material). The Rockport Observer reserves the The freedom to have Thanksgiving Day right to edit all entries and items for publication. Keeps certain plates bare, please truly pray NEXT DEADLINE: PUBLISH DATE: December 4, 2014 December 11, 2014 — Roger J. Robicheau

PUBLISHER EDITOR LuAnn Leonard Carolyn Hildebrandt [email protected] [email protected] 440.941.7092 WRITING ENSEMBLE ADVERTISING SALES & Nan Baker | Kristin Broka BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Meg Greenwald Conda Boyd | Perry Haan [email protected] Colleen Harding | Chris Keener Kathy Kosiorek | Noreen M. Kyle ADVISORY BOARD Bridget Lavelle | Kevin Madzia Peggy Cleary | Shelly Essi-Norehad Daniel Makara | Pat Miller Dr. Perry Haan | David Hildebrandt Elizabeth O’Brien | Eileen Ann Patton Joe LaPonza | John O’Brien Peggy Calvey Patton | Bryan Ruocco Kitty Sommers | Betsy Voinovich Debbie Simone | Angela Smith John Spielberger, Sr. Kitty Sommers | Jim Tishman PHOTOGRAPHER Karen Uthe | Susan Weir Brian Bendlock Alyssa Wiegand | Cynthia Wilt www.yearroundphotography.com

DESIGNER Angela Hammersmith

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Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com 4 THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 SHOP LOCAL

Shop Local for the Holidays

By Perry Haan The national trend is toward more active social media campaigns have local shopping. In communities where higher sales, especially among younger With the holiday shopping season more hometown shopping is done, there customers. getting into full swing, local businesses are more economic benefits to be enjoyed, Giving customers incentives to shop are encouraging people to buy from local including higher real estate values. locally on a specific day can help drive businesses. Local independent retailers “Local businesses make a community sales. American Express has sponsored a have several distinct advantages over strong and unique”, according to national “Shop Small Day” on the Saturday national big box competitors. Catherine Jones, owner of Fiori della following Black Friday since 2010. These stores have many connections Vita, a flower shop in Rocky River. The main reason consumers state for to the community. Local entrepreneurs “Driving through the downtown of every not doing more local shopping is price. can use those “roots” in the community small town in America tells the story of It is sometimes difficult for local stores in ways that the national stores cannot. that town. A vibrant and active retail to compete with the larger box stores To successfully leverage the hometown area means the community is healthy that buy in volume. “It is challenging to advantage, businesses need to show and growing.” compete with the big warehouse stores Dr. Perry Haan authentic concern for the community. In and supermarkets that offer discount Rocky River and the surrounding area, Local Benefits flowers every day”, Jones said. as in many other communities, business Shoppers often choose to buy local On the other hand, many small Finally, it is important for local owners serve as community leaders because of the intangible benefits their businesses offer products in niche entrepreneurs to buy from other local in a variety of capacities. “Living and spending can bring to the area. Improved markets where price is not as much of businesses. Local businesses can generate working in the same community is one local shopping choices, stores with an issue. Jones said she brings in fresh some discussion by purchasing locally of the best benefits I have”, according to local character, and salespeople and flowers daily from The Netherlands and and featuring their local buying habits in Paul Gorton, owner of Ford’s Clothier in owners who know their names are all buys from greenhouses in the area. their marketing. This can be a powerful Rocky River. reasons why some consumers keep their Just because an enterprise is local does tool to attract shop-local-oriented The economic argument for why spending local. not mean it is providing good personal consumers, giving them another reason customers should shop locally is “My customers come to me because I service. It is critical for local businesses to to visit a business. It also lets small simple. Spending at local businesses know them, their families and friends. provide additional personal touches that businesses support each other directly helps the local economy by providing I can meet their needs and exceed are not typically delivered by national and helps build new relationships for jobs. Local entrepreneurs also tend to their expectations. Local businesses firms. marketing. • buy from local suppliers and use local are connected to their customers and According to Gorton, “There are many professional services such as attorneys community in a very personal way”, benefits for customers to shop local, but Dr. Perry Haan is Professor of and accountants. Studies show that Jones said. probably the number one benefit for me Marketing and Entrepreneurship and for every $100 spent in locally owned Social media is also credited with as a small independent retailer is that I former Dean of the Business School at independent stores, $68 returns to the helping buy-local efforts. Smaller can be flexible and considerate toward Tiffin University. He resides in Rocky community through taxes, payroll and businesses now have a less expensive my customers. Customers will receive River and can be reached at 419-618- other expenditures. In comparison, the way to market themselves and, more the best customer service available 2867 or [email protected]. same amount spent in a national chain important, to develop relationships because I really do care if they come back store returns only $43 to the community. with their customers. Firms that have time and time again.”

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 5 SHOP LOCAL

Sip, Shop, Stroll Thursday, November 20th 6pm-10pm

come and visit us at Holiday Walk Saturday, December 6th 11am - 4pm

Mitchell Sotka A Way of Living Fine Furnishings and Antiques

Interior Design Services

19071 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River 440-333-1735 www.mitchellsotka.com

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com 6 THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 LOCAL BUSINESS Century Cycles Named a Gold-Level bicycle-friendly in the 22-plus years that we have been in business”, said Scott Bicycle Friendly Business Cowan, owner of Century Cycles. “It’s an By Kevin Madzia communities. Since 2008, it has honor to have the official recognition sponsored and organized the Bike To from the League of American Bicyclists, The League of American Bicyclists has School Challenge, which has increased not to mention being the first bicycle recognized Rocky River-based bicycle the rate of students bicycling to six local shop in the area to earn the award. We are shop Century Cycles as a Gold-Level schools (including Rocky River Middle also very proud to be the first business of Bicycle Friendly Business. The league School), and educated thousands of any type in Ohio to earn the gold level of is a national non-profit advocacy group students about the health, economic, and Bicycle Friendly Business.” that is leading the movement to create a environmental benefits of cycling. “Even though we’re a bike shop, it was Bicycle Friendly America for everyone. It Staff members from Century not automatically given that we would announced the 2014 list of 150 new and Cycles attend corporate wellness fairs be named a Bicycle Friendly Business”, renewing Bicycle Friendly Businesses on throughout the region to speak to added Kevin Madzia, the company’s September 24. Century Cycles joins a list organizations’ employees about the IT manager who led the application of over 800 local businesses, government health benefits of bicycling. The store process. “We had to apply just like any agencies, and Fortune 500 companies provides amenities for customers such as has supported Bike Cleveland, the other business, and we had to submit across the country that are transforming ample bicycle parking, free air for tires, local cycling advocacy group, since its applications individually for each of our the American workplace. free maintenance classes, and award- founding with membership promotions three stores. This allowed us to highlight Century Cycles is the first bicycle shop winning customer service for bicycles and awareness campaigns. Century the unique cycling cultures in each of the in Northeast Ohio to earn the Bicycle and accessories. Bicycling incentives for Cycles is also a long-time sponsor and communities that we are located in.” Friendly Business Award, and the first employees include cash paybacks for supporter of the area’s most popular Century Cycles is located at 19955 business of ANY type in the state of Ohio cycling to work, secure bike storage, and cycling events, such as the Great Ohio Detroit Road in Rocky River. In addition, to earn a gold-level designation (the a guaranteed ride home in case of bad Bicycle Adventure, Tour of the Scioto it has stores in Medina and Peninsula. • league recognizes businesses at either the weather or mechanical difficulties. River Valley, Bike MS Pedal to the Point, Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze levels). Outside the stores, Century Cycles VeloSano, and the recent NEOCycle Kevin Madzia is the Information Century Cycles encourages bicycling has spearheaded numerous efforts festival. Technology Manager and a Bicycle Fit as an easy option for transportation and to improve the quality of life in our “We have always considered ourselves Specialist for Century Cycles.

Dog Training: Gestures Gallery: Sooner Is Better Local Art and Crafts

By Daniel Makara into a routine of unwanted behaviors. By Chris Keener You can count on one hand how many As the owner of Rockstar Dog “oops” moments a puppy in training has. Gestures Gallery - in the heart of Training, I meet many people and dogs in While puppyhood is the best and Rocky River at 1150 Linda Street - has different situations. Unfortunately, I’m cheapest time to call a dog trainer, a dog been providing over 130 different regional usually called to someone’s home after a between the ages of six months and a year artisans a place to showcase their work behavior problem has already developed. is also in the premium age of trainability. for five years. Gestures is stocked full of Whether it is severe human or dog By this time, some bad habits may have one of a kind creations, including wall aggression or extreme separation developed but, with proper guidance, art, jewelry, hand-crafted soaps, pottery, anxiety, my typical client is already in these are relatively easy to break. The cards, plus many functional fiber art panic mode when he or she calls me. most difficult problem behavior to work pieces. While rehabilitation is possible in all on in this age range is separation anxiety. If jewelry is your thing, we have cases cases, it is definitely a lot of work, as my It is best to start working on this problem of unique pieces created in sterling silver, Gestures is filled with unique gifts current clients will tell you. right away, as it will only worsen over copper, and brass, along with beach created by local artisans. It may come as a surprise that the time. glass and found objects. You can even best time to call a dog trainer is before Regardless of the age of your dog customize a necklace or bracelet with If you are looking for unique gifts, you even get a dog! On occasion, I’ve whether he or she is an eight-week-old your initials. We have Ohio is HOME Gestures is the place for you. The shop been hired prior to a client picking out puppy or a nine-year-old senior, every t-shirts, decals and glassware. You can is warm and friendly and loaded with a puppy. I’ve been able to assist not only dog is trainable. Results are usually order a personalized cutting board with gift options. There is a price point to fit in the selection of the dog but also in the fast. However, older dogs that have your favorite family recipe engraved every budget. We do gift wrapping and initial homecoming. an established routine of unwanted on top, as well as commission one of our shipping too. This is the absolute perfect setup, as behavior take more work, consistency, local artists to do a watercolor portrait of Shop local and make Gestures part of I am able to show a client from day one and follow-through to rehabilitate your children or a pet. your gift giving this holiday season and how to stop a new puppy from getting completely. And more work costs more The shop is filled with creations that all year. Our artists thank you!!! dollars. feature Cleveland in prints, photographs Store hours have been extended When selecting a dog trainer, always and magnets. These make perfect gifts during the holiday season for your look for someone who will work in your for someone local or someone who shopping convenience. So, stop in or visit home - in the dog’s own environment, has moved away. Holiday ornaments, us at www.gesturesshop.com. • offer lifetime support, and guarantee driftwood Christmas trees and beach results. Rockstar Dog Training does glass soaps are just a few of the items Chris Keener and Valerie Greathouse all of this! Visit my Website www. you will find at Gestures for the holiday are co-owners of Gestures. rockstardogtraining.com or Facebook season. page or call 800-649-7297. Remember, sooner is better when it comes to dog training. • Song of the Pilgrims Just two well-behaved kids hanging Daniel Makara is the owner of Across the rolling, wind-swept sea out! Rockstar Dog Training. For months we’ve sailed along, I see a land that’s new to me Against the blue horizon. LIFETIME SUPPORT GUARANTEED RESULTS Oh, beautiful land of freedom born, I’ve come across the sea To reap your fruits and build my home, And make my people free.

www.rockstardogtraining.com 800.649.7297 — Nancy Sue Krenrich

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 7 LOCAL BUSINESS Metheny Weir Brings Chalk Paint® to the West Side By Susan Weir “We’ve spent 15 years learning how to Priming and sanding aren’t required create great custom finishes and worked when painting with Chalk Paint®. In fact, Now Cleveland Westsiders can visit in hundreds of fine homes around someone with no experience can create Metheny Weir’s new Rocky River studio Cleveland”, says Weir. “Now we’re sharing a beautiful waxed furniture finish in a to learn easy DIY paint techniques the secrets we’ve learned and teaching couple hours. Help is always available at that will enable them to channel their folks how they can reinvent furniture, either store, or after hours on Metheny creative energies and transform their kitchen cabinets, or almost anything all Weir’s “paint emergency line”. home decors. This new store is located at by themselves.” The new store is open Tuesday 20254 Detroit Road. The acclaimed no-prep paint – named through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Demand for the Chalk Paint® by Annie for the appearance of chalk, though the and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to Sloan and for painting classes taught paint is chalk-free – has become the go-to 3 p.m. For more information, visit www. by co-owners Kim Metheny and Sue product for easy makeovers for furniture methenyweir.com or call 216-303-9755. • Weir has grown in recent years at their and cabinetry. “Many of our customers original studio in Shaker Heights. “We are women who are bored with the look Susan Weir is co-owner with Kim have a bunch of customers who make of their homes and want to freshen things Metheny of Metheny Weir Painted Artistic duo Sue Weir and the trek over to Shaker from Rocky up”, says Metheny. “Our workshops help Finishes located in Rocky River and Kim Metheny River, Lakewood, Westlake and Avon so them get the confidence they need to use Shaker Heights. we think there’s a great opportunity to the Chalk Paint® and waxes to create a grow here,” says Metheny. fantastic finish on anything from a chair to an entire kitchen.” Meet the New Owner of Herb’s Tavern

By Perry Haan she enjoyed but started helping from Berry buys as many local products also acquired many new customers. For behind the scenes. Then her parents both as she can and, when possible, also buys the first time, Herb’s is not only drawing One of Rocky River’s venerable eating suffered health problems. “In January, from Cleveland’s West Side Market. She the younger crowd but also people ages and drinking establishments recently while on a business trip, I had a big uses independent distributors because 55 and above. changed ownership after celebrating decision to make - should I sell Herb’s Herb’s is also an independent business. Today young families walking their its 50th anniversary in business. Herb’s or keep it. My parents had given their The independent wine distributors have children in jogging strollers stop in for a Tavern at 19925 Detroit Road is now blessings for either choice. I decided to connections with vineyards in Italy and burger and drinks. The outdoor patio is owned by Kim Berry, who bought the quit my job and keep Herb’s.” California. “There’s always a story with a main attraction for people passing on business earlier this year. independents and I love that!”, she stated. the street as well as for people watchers. Berry is the daughter of Herb and A Return to Quality The Tavern has bourbon tasting, Some come to Herb’s because of the radio Bobbie Brugh who opened the business When Berry took over, a lot of cigar smokes, wine tastings and other advertising or word of mouth now that in April of 1963. “We lived upstairs over work needed to be done. “My parents’ events, which she promotes on the Herb’s things are much better, according to the Tavern for the first eight years of my standards were very high for food quality, Facebook page. The business is known Berry. life”, Berry said. cleanliness and customer service. I had for its weekend Bloody Mary breakfasts, “Our food is high quality. We strive to In the early days at the Tavern, Herb no choice but to start with a new staff. In three egg omelets, and sausage links. make guests’ experiences one they will would bartend downstairs while Bobbie May, Herb’s closed for three days to clean Berry believes Herb’s offers a big, fresh be glad to repeat and tell their friends was upstairs taking care of the family. and train new staff.” Many customers breakfast for a great price on Saturdays about. We aren’t perfect, but we sincerely “Dad would ring a bell when customers left, claiming that Berry was changing and Sundays. still enjoy our craft. I think there is great ordered food and mom would come down everything - from rewriting the menu to “We serve great coffee now that is energy at Herb’s.” and cook it. It wasn’t until 1971 that they knocking down the walls. blended by a local independent company. could afford to hire a cook and mom “It’s been six months. All I did was what Coffee is important because it’s the first A Final Wish didn’t have to cook anymore”, Berry said. my parents would want, which was to and the last thing you taste.” She believes Berry’s one wish would be for her father Berry has many fond memories of bring the Tavern’s customer service and Herb’s weekend breakfast is one of the to see the improvements and talk to the growing up in the family business. “If the food and drink quality up to the level best kept secrets in the area. young families and customers coming in walls could talk…everyone loves Herb’s that they had provided for many years.” for the first time. I know our customers and my parents. But everyone’s story of These are all things that customers expect New & Old Customers would enjoy hearing his stories about the why they love Herb’s is different.” Berry from Herb’s, according to the new owner. Berry realized many customers would Tavern. is having cards created to place on the A major improvement that Berry has leave given the changes. However, she Herb’s new proprietor said she feels tables so that customers can write down made is in the quality of the Tavern’s also knew that Herb’s would not survive very blessed and loves being back in the their stories of why they love Herb’s. signature item, the Herb Burger. “We now if she did not make improvements. business. “I love coming to work every These stories will then be posted on have our burgers made fresh and shipped “Failure to me is not trying. We are doing day and talking with our customers. I Herb’s Tavern Facebook page. to us, which makes a huge difference. The well and people still love us. Some of the want to continue Herb’s for another 50 In 2012 Berry’s parents asked her to Herb Burger comes in three sizes and it’s old customers are slowly coming back years.” • run Herb’s. She had a corporate job that my dad’s recipe of 51 years.” and it’s great!” She said the business has

When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude. — Gilbert K. Chesterton

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com 8 THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 HEALTH

Wellness Doc Say Goodbye to Headaches and Migraines

By Bryan Ruocco address what is causing the pain. Let me food allergies. Poor blood sugar balance assure you that the pain in your head and hormone imbalance, especially in Over the last month or so, I have had doesn’t just happen without a reason. I women, are also very common causes. many clients visit my office seeking help believe our medical system does not look Among the most overlooked causes, for migraines and headaches. Since so at what I believe are the primary causes which conventional medicine does not many people suffer with this debilitating of the pain, but instead focuses only on even consider, are misalignments of the condition, I thought it would be a great the pain. Pain meds are prescribed, pain spine and poor posture. discussion topic. management is offered, Botox is injected, Another key factor is the location of There are many reasons why and the list goes on. the headaches and migraines, which one suffers from headaches and/or This is absurd. Imagine driving your can be indicative of where the potential migraines. I believe most people could car and the check engine light comes on. problem may be. Typically, pain in the eliminate their pain if they knew and You pull into the nearest gas station, wait, back of the head is caused by poor spinal understood what was causing it. In my and then the attendant says he fixed the alignment, poor posture, and digestion. Dr. Bryan Ruocco opinion, conventional medicine really problem. You get in your car and see that Pain in the temporal region is oftentimes misses the boat because the treatment he put a piece of black tape over the light. hormonal. Pain in the frontal region is 4744, mention this article, and receive a is geared only toward dulling the pain, Would you continue to drive the car? The often due to food sensitivities. comprehensive evaluation, consultation which does not in any way address the check engine light is not the problem - Supporting healthy hormone and one set of x-rays to assess your spinal problem. the engine is! balance, maintaining healthy digestion, alignment for only $29.00. Call today to I am amazed by how many people Do not just treat the pain, instead you addressing food sensitivities, and take advantage of our special offer, which actually experience and live with such must get to the root of the problem. In correcting any misalignments of the is valid for the month of November. See pain. Headaches can be serious and may my clinical experience, headaches and spine and posture can very well be your our ad for details. indicate some serious problems within migraines stem from poor digestion and answer to ending your headache and the body. There is nothing normal digestive problems, which the patient migraine suffering. No drugs, no pain Wishing you a Happy Holiday Season! • about your head hurting and feeling may or may not recognize. You do not management, just a simple natural like it is going to burst. And taking a necessarily have to have digestive approach to ending your pain and Dr. Bryan Ruocco is a local pill is not going to solve the problem. symptoms. suffering. I see successful outcomes every chiropractor and wellness advocate. Moreover, heavy or long-term use of week in clinical practice. He owns and operates the Power of LIFE some medicines, including ibuprofen, Finding a Root Cause For those of you who are suffering Wellness Center located in Rocky River. naproxen, and aspirin, can cause chronic There are simple tests and reflex and looking for answers other than Dr. Ruocco graduated from the Life kidney disease. points on the body that can be pills, I would like to offer you a special Chiropractic College in Marietta, GA. To get rid of headaches and migraines tested. Headaches can stem from food opportunity to visit our office to see if He graduated in the top of his class and for good, you must understand and sensitivities, which is different from we can help. Call our office at 440-331- received Magna Cum Laude Honors.

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it. — William Arthur Ward

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 9 HEALTH New Alzheimer’s Trial at Lakewood Hospital

By Angela Smith (mental processes which connect past experience with present action) People aged 60 to 90 who are diagnosed • Poor judgment Aphasia (language with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disorders) disease may benefit from something as •Apraxia (motor disorders) simple as sitting in a chair – a state-of- the-art chair, that is. The Trial and Treatment Clinical trials for the new chair therapy Following an initial interview and began last fall at the Cleveland Clinic consultation with the physician and Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las a research coordinator, individuals Vegas. This non-invasive therapeutic approved for the trial must commit to system uses cognitive training and participating in a 15-week program that transcranial magnetic stimulation consists of daily appointments (lasting 1 (TMS) on targeted areas of the brain. The to 1-1/2 hours), five days a week for six trial was expanded to Lakewood Hospital weeks, and two screening visits. in early 2014. If you are interested in participating “While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, in this trial or getting more information, we are always looking for treatments to contact the study coordinator, Christine improve cognitive function for patients,” Whitman, RN, at 216-227-2438 or says Babak Tousi, MD, a geriatrician with [email protected]. special interest in neurodegenerative diseases. He is the principal investigator Support Services of the clinical trial at the Lou Ruvo The Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health Center for Brain Health at Lakewood offers comprehensive outpatient services Hospital (formerly the Senior Care for older adults experiencing a change in Assessment Center). their physical, psychological or social “Until the introduction of this device, well-being at four locations - Lakewood medication was the only approved option Hospital, Cleveland Clinic main campus, for treatment,” Dr. Tousi says. “The pilot Las Vegas and Cleveland Clinic Florida. trials suggest that this treatment may For more information or to schedule an help provide patients with nine months appointment at Lakewood Hospital, call of better brain function even after the 216-521-2228. treatment.” In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association Cleveland Area Chapter, Know the Symptoms Lakewood Hospital presents Tuesday Alzheimer’s disease, the result of Talk on Dementia. Held the first Tuesday an increasing number of nerve cells of each month from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at deteriorating and dying, affects more the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health at than 5 million Americans, most older Lakewood Hospital (Community Health than 65. Symptoms include the following: Center, 1450 Belle Ave., 2nd floor). Topics •Memory loss of discussion vary each month. For more •Confusion information or to reserve a spot, call 216- •Decline in executive functions 227-2273. •

Forever on Thanksgiving Day The heart will find the pathway home. — Wilbur D. Nesbit

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Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com 10 THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 EDUCATION & LIBRARIES

“The Pajama Game” “For God & Country” Comes to Magnificat Letter Contest By Eileen Ann Patton, Mayor

Each school year, the 7th and 8th grade students at Lewis F. Mayer Middle School, St. Angela Merici School, and Messiah Lutheran School compete in a letter writing contest aimed at acknowledging the overseas members of our Armed Forces and expressing gratitude for their sacrifices in keeping the United States safe and free. Referred to as “For God and Country,” this contest received its name from the letter prompt given to students: “Why God, country, and the men and women who serve in our Armed Forces are important to our country’s freedom.” The year 2014 marks the 38th year of the For God and Country program. Student letters are submitted to the We Do Care Committee annually and judged by a group of volunteer residents. Letters are selected from each school as winners and are read aloud at a meeting of the Fairview Park City Council. The winning student authors are publicly identified and receive a certificate acknowledging their success. The 2014 winners of the For God and Country contest will be recognized and their letters read at the November 17 meeting of City Council. Copies of the winning letters will be sent to troops stationed at almost 200 installations “The Pajama Game” comes to Magnificat in November. Cast members pictured around the world. are Cindy Trannguyen ‘16, David Faust (senior at St Ignatius), Mary Hearns ‘15, Fairview Park’s We Do Care Committee was founded by resident and chairman Nora Dillon ‘15, and Casey Sobecks (senior at St. Ignatius). Harriet Beekman in 1976 in response to diminishing patriotism during the Vietnam era. The Committee was formed in an effort to encourage students in By Karen Uthe Fairview Park to consider and understand how our Armed Forces have helped ensure freedom in the United States. • Grab your favorite blanket and a pillow, and head to the Magnificat Center for the Performing Arts on November 22-23 and 28-29, as Magnificat High School presents Eileen Ann Patton is the Mayor of the City of Fairview Park. “The Pajama Game”. Set in 1954 in a Cedar Rapids, Iowa pajama factory, the musical “The Pajama Game” follows the journey of Babe Williams and Sid Sorokin, two employees in the Sleep Tite Pajama Factory. Add to this the antics of other wacky characters and some beautiful, Drug Free Community Coalition fun and timeless music, such as the songs “Steam Heat”, “Hey There” and “Hernando’s Hideaway”, and you have a musical that presents a serious message about workers’ Receives Funding rights and corporate greed, while never forgetting to entertain. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and at 4 p.m. on Sunday. plan by completing a logic model and Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for senior citizens and $10 for students, and can be By Noreen M. Kyle intervention mapping. purchased by visiting www.magnificat.tix.com or by calling 440-331-1572, ext. 261. The Westshore Young Leaders In an effort to understand the local Magnificat is located at 20770 Hilliard Blvd. in Rocky River. • Network (WYLN), an emerging coalition conditions that are contributing to youth in Cuyahoga County that serves six substance use, a Community Perception Karen Uthe is the Director of Marketing for Magnificat High School. communities in the West Shore region, Survey will be used to gather data. A received notification that it had community’s strengths, gaps, needs, and been selected to be mentored by The barriers impacting all residents will be Community Awareness and Prevention examined. Association (CAPA) for the Coalition of The Westshore Young Leaders Network Excellence - Mentoring Grant from the is dedicated to implementing strategies Ohio Department of Mental Health and aimed at preventing and reducing Addiction Services. The communities youth substance use while encouraging include the suburbs of Bay Village, healthy life choices. For information or Fairview Park, Lakewood, North to join WYLNetwork Coalition, contact Olmsted, Rocky River and Westlake. Noreen Kyle at 440-250-9916 or visit us The funding will be used to at www.westshoreyoungleaders.org. • enhance community collaboration and reduce youth substance use in Noreen Kyle is an employee of the West Shore communities. It will assist Westshore Enforcement Bureau, drug in the development of a strategic task force. She is the school prevention planning process that will result in specialist for the Westshore Young a comprehensive community action Leaders Program.

Best Thanksgiving Thanksgiving is here, so our minds have turned To what time has taught us, to what we’ve learned: We often focus all our thought On shiny things we’ve shopped and bought. We take our pleasure in material things, Forgetting the pleasure that friendship brings. If a lot of our stuff just vanished today, We’d see the foundation of each happy day Is special relationships, constant and true, And that’s when our thoughts go directly to you. We wish you a Thanksgiving you’ll never forget, Full of love and joy—your best one yet!

— Joanna Fuchs

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 11 EDUCATION & LIBRARIES

Become a Part of the FAIRVIEW PARK BRANCH Improving Job Market LIBRARY HAPPENINGS

November 6 at 7:00 p.m. Join us for the by a Career Counselor. This workshop By Cynthia Wilt Plaza West Conference Center of River Golden Age of Shopping in Cleveland, will provide attendees with an Properties. The basic module of five a delightful look back at the height of understanding of the basics and the Are you an underemployed or classes will be held in the third floor downtown elegance and elaborate intent behind LinkedIn. Learn how unemployed person looking to start a conference room on Thursday mornings holiday displays. Which was more to create a LinkedIn account, build new phase of your life? Do you wonder from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for a five week glamorous—to ride the elevator with an a profile, set up privacy settings what you can do when you retire to period, November 13 through December operator or the escalator? Remember and build a professional network. bring in some income or to keep yourself 18 (excluding Thanksgiving). downtown shopping at Halle Brothers, Registration required. occupied and your brain alert? Or are You can sign up at www.careertc.org The May Co., Higbee’s and the Sterling you just tired of doing the same old thing where you can also see a video describing Linder Christmas tree? From your December 8 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 and want to change careers to something the program and the registration purchases delivered next day by p.m. Come to our Concept2Business more fun and enjoyable? If so, the new form. Or you can email cynthia.wilt@ trucks and dining in the tea rooms, workshop to learn how to generate 2nd Stage Institute is for you. careertc.org for a registration form and shopping downtown was a dressy affair! and cultivate your business ideas and Three organizations – all centered information on how to hold your seat. Registration required. develop your business concept. Take in Rocky River - have come together Seating is limited and all services are the challenge and see if you are ready to provide a series of five classes, priced very affordably - just enough to November 20 from to become an entrepreneur. assessments, elective classes and group/ cover costs. 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. individual coaching to help you realize There is nothing else like this LinkedIn Basics is To register, call the Fairview Park who you really are and how you operate. anywhere in Northeast Ohio. So what’s aimed at LinkedIn Branch Library at 440-333-4700 or Learn how you can fit into this new job stopping you from improving your beginners and presented visit www.cuyahogalibrary.org. market/business environment and what future? It just takes some time, energy, is the best fit for you in your future. Dave drive and a little bit of money to improve Clements of Vision 21 Consulting, Rev. your path and get you to your next stage Charles Eduardos of Victorious Living of life. Call 440-409-0318 for more details. System and Cynthia Wilt of Career Don’t be left out of this group who will be Transition Center have collaborated to improving their life situation with the bring this amazing new program to the tools they will learn from this program. • area. Classes will be held at the Fifth Third Cynthia K. Wilt is President, Board of Bank Building at 20220 Center Ridge Directors, Career Transition Center. Road and at the recently remodeled

All in a Word T for time to be together, turkey, talk, and tangy weather. H for harvest stored away, home, and hearth, and holiday. Find a baragain at Rocky River Public Library’s ongoing book sale. A for autumn’s frosty art, and abundance in the heart. N for neighbors, and November, nice things, new things to remember. Like Bargains? Love our Book Sale! K for kitchen, kettles’ croon, kith and kin expected soon. By Kitty Sommers S for sizzles, sights, and sounds, and something special The Women’s Committee of Rocky River Public Library hosts an ongoing book that abounds. sale in the library’s lobby. Recent bestsellers, Pulitzer-prize winning novels, children’s That spells THANKS—for joy in living and popular and classic literature, as well as a host of nonfiction(ranging from cookbooks and travel guides to antiques and decorating) are snapped up almost as soon as they a jolly good Thanksgiving. hit the shelves. DVDs, CDs and audiobooks abound! Prices generally range from 50¢ to $1.00 for new and nearly new items that have been donated to the library. — Aileen Fisher Proceeds from the book sale are donated by the Women’s Committee to add equipment, furnishings and new services to the library. • Kitty Sommers is Director of Marketing at Rocky River Public Library.

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com 12 THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 GOVERNMENT Report on Westshore Council of Thank You to Voters Governments Meeting on October 8

By LWV observers Conda Boyd cull deer on private property. Mayor term goal for Lakewood, and he will (Bay Village) and Kathy Kosiorek Kennedy noted that the MetroParks continue to research the idea. (Lakewood) culls 30-120 deer a year in Bradley Woods. North Olmsted is examining options, County Council Update This report is not an official LWV including an ordinance similar to Avon Cuyahoga County Council District statement. Official minutes are Lake’s. Rocky River sent residents an 1 Representative Greenspan described prepared by Mayor Patton’s office and advisory on how to discourage deer. Bay a new RTA program that will offer posted on Fairview Park’s website. Village has had 20 deer-vehicle accidents discounts for transportation to cultural in the past year. Mayors Sutherland and events. He also discussed in detail a RTA Kennedy agreed that aggressive wild proposed $50 million fund to demolish By Nan Baker There will be a public meeting about turkeys have also been problematic. vacant buildings. Mayor Summers RTA’s future on October 21 at 2pm at stated that while Cleveland’s needs are Thank you to the voters of District RTA headquarters. Lakewood’s upgraded Suburban Water Council disproportionately large, a reasonable 16 - Bay Village, Fairview Park, North transit stations are due to be completed Mayor Bobst stated that infrastructure percentage should be directed to the Olmsted, Rocky River and Westlake - in November. improvements are built into the rates suburbs as well. Property value increases for their overwhelming support to re- charged to all Cleveland Water customers, materialize much more quickly in the elect me on Election Day. Thank you Cuyahoga County Mayors & City so it’s important to bring those dollars suburbs, spurring regional recovery. also to my campaign team for tirelessly Managers Association (CCMCMA) back to the city via the renewal program. walking door-to-door with me, making Mayor Sutherland reported that HB5 Rocky River is now checking water County Health Insurance Program phone calls, attending festivals, walking municipal income tax changes will be lines in conjunction with other projects. Mayor Patton reported that Fairview in parades, planting yard signs and taken up by the lame duck Ohio Senate Fairview Park has evaluated water Park is nearing the end of its first year volunteering at our wonderful October and will require close monitoring to main breaks, matched them with their under the county program. They opted Pancake Breakfast in Rocky River. ensure progress. street program, and prioritized projects for two of the seven plans and estimated Our message was clear, “It’s All About North Royalton Mayor Robert accordingly. Bay Village City Council has $300,000 savings in 2014. Employee Jobs!” As always, my number one Stefanik is asking the CCMCMA to declined to participate in the renewal satisfaction is high, and the 2015 priority will continue to be to create endorse his letter demanding that the program. Lakewood owns and operates premium increase is only 1.5%. an environment that encourages jobs Ohio Department of Natural Resources its own water system. to stay and locate in Ohio by lowering (ODNR) manage the deer population. The WCOG was founded in 1971 excessive taxes and mandates in order Mayors Clough and Sutherland declined Clean Fuels “to foster cooperation between to compete with other states. Workforce to sign this letter, but Mayor Sutherland Mayor Summers met with Clean Fuels municipalities in all areas of training will also be a priority to give stated that the ODNR is trying to shift Ohio about fueling stations for alternative municipal service.” All meetings are our Ohioans the skills to obtain the good the burden onto homeowners. fuels. While potential fuel savings for open to the public. The next meeting paying jobs that exist today. In Avon Lake, homeowners can request cities and schools are substantial, the will be November 12, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 I am excited to return to the Ohio permits from ODNR and the city to cost of these special stations may be a.m. in the Fairview Park Gemini House of Representatives 131st General prohibitive. Energy efficiency is a long- Center’s Birch Room. • Assembly in 2015. It is an honor to serve you. • State Representative Nan Baker Give thanks for unknown blessings already on their way. —Native American Saying represents the 16th Ohio House District.

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 13 THE ARTS

Beck Center Dance Education An Essay Offers Festive Events November By Pat Miller Workshop and select dancers as they perform excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s By Peggy Calvey Patton Beck Center Dance Education brings classic ballet, “The Nutcracker”. in the holiday season as it presents A “The Holiday Tea is especially Perhaps it is the cruelest month of all to those who live in northern Ohio. The Journey with Clara to the Land of Sweets appealing to families with young children rich amber, gold and purple leaves falling from the exposed brown tree bark and its popular biannual Holiday Tea as they watch the story come alive remind us of the coming cold winter. The trees are weeping their leaves in winds Party. With several dates and times to right before their eyes”, said Associate that start out as lukewarm breezes and turn frigid in minutes. Blue skies turn choose from, you should be able to find a Director of Dance Melanie Szucs, who is a brooding grey in a heartbeat. It is a melancholy goodbye to summer and the time that is right for you and your family. also choreographing the piece. beginning of winter. A Journey with Clara to the Land There are two performances on The split personality of November juxtaposes us with contrasts every day. There of the Sweets takes place on Sunday, Saturday, December 6 at 4 p.m. and 7 may be time for bike riding, walks and driving through the valley, but the short November 23, in the Recital Hall of p.m., which include complimentary days of November have us home before nightfall. Beck Center’s Music & Dance building. beverages and desserts. High tea will be The first day of November is a fusion of both remembrance and excess with the This dance workshop offers 90 magical served at two performances on Sunday, Catholic feast of All Saints Day and the spoils of Halloween begging. A rewarding minutes of fantasy fun for children ages December 7 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., including gluttonous day for youth and a painful day for those who lost someone dear. A 4 to 8 years. Students may select from sandwiches, fresh vegetables, desserts time for retrospect mixed with the joy of the young. two class times - 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Cost and beverages. Tickets for the Saturday On November 2 , daylight savings ends and setting clocks back one hour shortens is $15 per student. Class size is limited, so performances are $10 per person and for the precious sunlight that seeps through the grey clouds. Voting day is on the first enroll today! the Sunday performances, $12. Children Tuesday and it brings us a jaded hope that things will change and usually they do, The young students will join Clara on 11 and under must be accompanied by but it never seems to be what we want. We are cautiously hopeful that the secret a magical journey through the Land of an adult. Reserved seating is limited and dealings of crooked politicians are over. the Sweets. They will listen to the story, tickets are selling fast. Veterans Day on November 11 is a day of ceremonial thanks and prayers for watch portions of the story unfold, and Finally, as is tradition for the Holiday the young men who went off to our many wars and didn’t come home. American learn simple dance steps from Beck Tea, the 70 performers will take “The servicemen’s graves are all over the world because America is always helping Center dancers. The workshop concludes Nutcracker” on the road to three area other countries in their time of hostilities. The veterans that did come home are with an opportunity to take photos of the nursing homes on Saturday, December honored and thanked for saving our American way of life. So few that did so much students with their favorite characters 13. “Our dancers will share the holiday for the rest of us. God bless our heroes. from “The Nutcracker”. A Journey with production with residents at Lutheran November 22, 1963 is etched in our lives as the end of innocence for America. The Clara is a fundraiser supporting Beck Home Concord Reserve, Our Lady of the Kennedys were our first superstars and we couldn’t get enough of them. It was a Center dancers who are taking their own Woods and Eliza Jennings”, said Szucs. joyful and exciting time; we believed our politicians then and felt our government journey to the Youth American Grand Tickets may be purchased online at in Washington would lead and protect us. Then he was gone. We began to learn of Prix competition in Chicago in February beckcenter.org or by calling Customer conspiracies. The world would never be the same again. 2015. Services at 216-521-2540, x10. Beck Thanksgiving Day is in some ways nicer than Christmas because it focuses on The Dance Alliance of Beck Center is Center is located at 17801 Detroit Avenue only three things - family, friends and food. Less hectic, it is a day of hugs and inviting children and their families to a in Lakewood. Free onsite parking is platters of food. In the morning, guys will go to the neighborhood parks and play Holiday Tea Party on December 6 and 7 available. • an annual ragtag football game that started in grade school and will continue in the Recital Hall of the Music & Dance Pat Miller is Graphic Design and until they are grandpas. building at Beck Center. Guests will enjoy Marketing Coordinator at the Beck Tables will be set with the good china and silverware. The kids will decorate entertainment by the Beck Center Dance Center. the mantle with their art class-made turkeys and pilgrims and there is always a football game playing on television. Gathering around the dining room table and giving thanks are treasured moments. Everyone will be happy on this autumn afternoon. The Christmas songs start in November and football games reach their peak. The fans will watch football games, any and all football games. They’ll have tailgate parties, bar parties, bets and pools. They’ll dress in brown and orange and paint their faces. Their motto is usually “Wait till next year”. I envy their love for the game and the “Brownies”. And the snow will come. And the grey days too. Goodbye to pedicures, tank tops and short shorts. Hello to boots, scarves and gloves. This is November in Cuyahoga County. It is unpredictable. It is glorious. It is sad. It is a collection of the favorite days of our youth. It is the sadness of remembering those gone before us. It is the joy of being with family and friends in a warm home. It is goodbye to sunshine. The sweet warm memories of November will fortify us in the coming winter. We will make it through the winter and see flowers growing again. •

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Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com 14 THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 RECREATION

Get in the Game! So You Think You’re Fast? Prove It!

Drop in for Get in the Game! on November 19 from 3:15 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for students in grades 3-6. Meet at the Rocky River Public Library to hang out with your friends, play games and munch on snacks. Different games are featured each month, including Wii Just Dance, PlayStation Rock Band, party games and board games. And coming around the bend...she took the lead. Dance Alliance of Beck Center By Elizabeth O’Brien Supported by a trio of talented and Hosts Social Event accomplished coaches, Lakewood Club If you have never seen speedskating skaters benefit from their knowledge By Pat Miller in person, it’s time to make a jaunt over and experience. to Winterhurst Arena in Lakewood and Dennis Marquard is a Level 2 Certified The Dance Alliance of Beck Center invites you to Afternoon Reception & Acoustic watch adults and kids - as young as five Coach and a U.S. Speedskating Hall of Concert with Dolinar Spahija on Sunday, November 23. This social event will take place - race around the oval, dipping deep into Fame inductee. Katie Class Marquard at 3 p.m. in the intimate Studio Theater at Beck Center. Tickets, which include one the corners and pushing for the finish was a member of the 1984 Sarajevo drink ticket, are $25. Appetizers and beverages will be served as a concert featuring line. But even better would be to give it and 1988 Calgary Olympic teams and the internationally and classically trained Spahija takes place. All proceeds benefit a try yourself. served as Executive Director of U.S. the Dance Alliance of Beck Center. Depending on your age, you may be Speedskating for 16 years. Joe Balbo, The Dance Alliance was founded to support the Dance Education program at Beck better acquainted with Bonnie Blair who has been coaching for more than Center through fundraising and volunteerism. DABC members are primarily parents than with Apolo Anton Ohno, but don’t 20 years, is a speedskating referee and of dance students and adult dance students, but also include unaffiliated friends of let that stop you from strapping on a certified personal trainer. the program. All are welcome to join this volunteer organization. Dues are $5 per pair of skates. Speedskating is a great The Lakewood Speedskating Club year. To join DABC, contact Melanie Szucs, associate director of Dance Education, at workout, combining strength training is a member of the Ohio Speedskating [email protected]. and cardiovascular endurance. Association and U.S. Speedskating. Tickets for the Afternoon Reception & Acoustic Concert may be purchased Young and old, beginners and Practices are held on Sunday and online at bit.ly/DolinarDABC or by calling Customer Services at 216-521-2540, x10. accomplished skaters alike, all come Wednesday evenings at Winterhurst Ice Beck Center is located at 17801 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood. Free onsite parking is together to practice and compete in Arena in Lakewood. Skaters can elect to available. • the Lakewood Speedskating Club. Our skate one or both nights. To participate, skaters include children, teens, and skaters need to be able to skate adults from as far away as Chagrin Falls independently. They are also required and as close as Rocky River, as well as to wear a helmet, gloves, knee pads, and several families who have passed the a neck guard. The club offers speedskate love of the sport on to their children and rental on a yearly basis. All ages and grandchildren. Many join to compete, abilities are welcome. New skaters are but others join simply for the exercise welcome at any time! and personal and physical growth that Interested? Check out our website at speedskating promotes. www.lakewoodspeedskatingclub.org or The Lakewood Speedskating Club contact Coach Denny at 440-899-9577 was formed in the 1940s and has a long or [email protected]. history of providing supervised training, Be a part of the sport that won more producing National Champions and Olympic medals than any other winter World and Olympic team members. sport! •

Dolinar Spahija

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.

— Melody Beattie Skaters of all ages in the Lakewood Speedskating Club at Winterhurst Arena.

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 15 THE GOOD LIFE

The Etiquette Corner An Easy Holiday Side Dish Please, No Candy in Church! By Alyssa Wiegand By Colleen Harding

This recipe puts a gourmet spin on Recently, I attended a church service and sat in front of some poorly behaved roasted butternut squash with a hint children. To make matters worse, the parents attempted to bribe their children with of sweet balsamic vinegar, pieces of candy suckers that came in very loud wrappers. smoky bacon, and crunchy walnuts. In my house, candy is a reward for good behavior. I wondered why someone would It’s a great side dish for Thanksgiving give an overly active child sugar in the hopes that they would calm down. Bribing an or Christmas, but it’s easy enough to overly active child to calm down with sugar is like bribing an alcoholic to get sober serve any night of the week. with a beer. It just didn’t make any sense, but it got me thinking. You can also substitute kabocha squash, acorn squash, pumpkin, sweet potato If we want our children to grow up to be thoughtful adults, able to make good or yam for the butternut. decisions for themselves, we need to set an example by making good decisions in front Omit the bacon and add an extra 1/2 tablespoon of oil to make the recipe of them. We need to work on being real-life role models, demonstrating through our vegetarian. actions what is and is not acceptable behavior. We cannot make poor choices in front of our children without potential future Balsamic Glazed Butternut Squash with Bacon & Walnuts consequences. One of my favorite quotes on this issue is from a lady named Dr. Deirdre Serves 6-8 as a side dish Adduci: “You can tame the kitten now or the lion later”. I think that pretty much sums it up. Ingredients When you attend a church service, a meeting, a presentation or even while you’re 1 butternut squash, seeds removed, skin removed and cut into 3/4 inch cubes shopping, be aware of the people around you. Put your cell phones on vibrate. Say (should yield about 4 cups of cubes) please and thank you to anyone who helps you. Make eye contact and smile. Offer 4 oz bacon, cut into matchsticks to help someone randomly. Tip the person who puts the groceries in your car. 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or French walnut oil from The Olive Scene Compliment someone who looks nice. Dress appropriately. Let people go ahead of you 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (try The Olive Scene’s Traditional 18 Year, instead of rushing and pushing to get out the door. It shows kindness and patience to Pumpkin Spice, or Fig Balsamic Vinegar) your children. 1/2 cup chopped toasted walnuts These simple little actions can demonstrate an immense amount of good will and Salt and pepper politeness. Imitation is the finest form of flattery. Let’s give our children something good to emulate. • Preparation Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Please submit your questions to Mrs. Harding through our website, Toss the squash and bacon on a rimmed baking sheet with the oil and season click on Submit a new story and choose the category “Mrs. Harding”. to taste with salt and pepper. Roast for about 20-30 minutes, stirring after 15 minutes and every 5 minutes after that, until squash cubes are tender and cooked through. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning, adding more balsamic to taste. Top with shopped walnuts and serve warm.

This recipe is brought to you by the The Olive Scene in Rocky River. Stop in or visit the store at www.theolivescene.com.

Colleen Harding “Training Future Leaders” be sure to visit these local

(216)970-5889 clevelandschoolofetiquette.com Holiday Shopping Events

The Shops of Lake Road Present… Holiday Preview Open House 2014 Friday, November 14 6pm - 9pm Enjoy a sneak peek of the holiday treats and wonders of the season that await you at Rocky River’s unique collection of specialty shops, eateries and services. Giving Thanks For the hay and the corn and the wheat that is reaped, Winter Market — Sip, Shop, Stroll For the labor well done, and the barns that are heaped, Thursday, November 20 For the sun and the dew and the sweet honeycomb, 6pm - 10pm On Linda Street in Rocky River For the rose and the song and the harvest brought home -- Sip some beverages, shop for the holidays and stroll Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving! through the shops and restaurants of Linda Street

For the trade and the skill and the wealth in our land, Fairview Park 2nd Annual Winterfest For the cunning and strength of the workingman’s hand, Friday, November 28 5:30pm - 8pm For the good that our artists and poets have taught, Lorain Road & Fairview Parkway For the friendship that hope and affection have brought -- Join us for the tree lighting at 6pm, music, ice carving, Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving! food trucks, and of course, Santa!

For the homes that with purest affection are blest, Downtown River Holiday Walk Saturday, December 6 For the season of plenty and well-deserved rest, 11am - 4pm For our country extending from sea unto sea; Downtown River The land that is known as the “Land of the Free” -- Join us for the 6th Annual Downtown River Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving! Holiday Walk, a unique holiday experience for you and your family. — Author Unknown

Join the Discussion at: www.therockportobserver.com 16 THE ROCKPORT OBSERVER | VOL 02, ISSUE 5 | NOVEMBER 2014 ROCKY RIVER PUBLIC LIBRARY • CALENDAR OF EVENTS

November 3 at 6:30 p.m. Join us for sister. Enjoy fresh, hot popcorn while November 18 at 7:00 p.m. Join our Dug. Before Mario, there was Jumpman. Mystery Monday. Pick up a copy of celebrating the world of cinema. Men’s Book Discussion of “Killing Jesus: Before them all, there was Pong. Parents “Paw and Order: A Chet and Bernie A History” by Bill O’Reilly and Martin and children are invited to explore Mystery” by Spencer Quinn and join November 12 at 3:30 p.m. Teen Pizza Dugard. Read this historical account of the young, but varied history of video the lively – or deadly- discussion about Pagers meet on for pizza and a book Jesus’ life and death, and learn about the games in this hands-on exhibition. this book! Pay close attention as Chet discussion group. Stop by the Reference world around him. Come and try iconic consoles and and his human companion, Private Desk to register and pick up a copy of the games from the past 35 years. Investigator Bernie Little, begin their current book. Grade 7 and 8. Registration November 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 latest adventure together in the rough required. a.m. Come to App Your Library November 24 at 6:30 p.m. The 8th and tumble town of Washington, D.C. and discover the easy ways to keep annual Cowan Classic Film Festival November 13 at 7:00 p.m. Join the Adult in communication with the Library continues on with “Red Headed November 6 at 3:00 p.m. Family Rocky River Readers discussion of “The using apps. Take the Library with you, Woman” a 1932 classic starring Jean Flicks play on this Thursday. There’s no Rosie Project” by Graeme Simsion. Love wherever you go! Harlow and Chester Morris. Free hot school, so bring the whole family for a isn’t an exact science, but you can’t tell popcorn! hit movie and a snack! A caregiver must that to Don Tillman. A thirty-nine- November 19 from 3:15 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. be present. year-old geneticist, Don’s never had a Drop in for Get in the Game! for students November 25 from 6:15 p.m. to 8:15 second date and he devises a scientific in grades 3-6. Meet at the Library to hang p.m. Play Dungeons & Dragons. November 6 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:45 test to find the perfect partner. Enter out with your friends, play games and Locations vary, so call for details. Join p.m. Teens are invited to join us for Rosie, ‘the world’s most incompatible munch on snacks. Different games are us for this classic fantasy role playing Lego® Mindstorm®. Grab your friends woman,’ throwing Don’s safe, ordered life featured each month, including Wii Just game with other teens. Learn how and stop by the Library for a new Teen into chaos. Read this smart, funny, and Dance, PlayStation Rock Band, party to create a character and embark on “Thursday Thing” event each month. surprising novel and come to discuss it. games and board games. fantastic adventures. There is plenty of Grades 7 and up. Registration required. room for extra Dungeon Masters, too! November 14 at 2:00 p.m. Sip, Snack, Grades 7 and up. Registration required. November 6 at 7:00 p.m. Ready and Craft! with special guest, Shannon for dessert? Then you will want to ‘Knitgirl’ Okey - fiber artist, founder of November 28 at 12:00 p.m. Drop in for experience A Sweet Treat presented Cooperative Press, and author of thirteen Lunch and a Movie. Bring your bag by Karen Bosworth, head baker and books! Okey will be instructing the group lunch and enjoy “Jersey Boys,” the story owner of KB Confections Bake Shoppe. on a simple project and materials will be of four young men from the wrong side It all begins with the perfect pie provided. You just need to bring yourself of the tracks who came together to crust and that’s where Karen starts - and maybe a friend - along with the form the iconic 1960s rock group “The in her demonstrations of how to desire to make boring yarn into an Four Seasons.” We’ll provide the hot make delicious cranberry tartes and exciting project! Registration required. Join these enthusiastic participants popcorn and refreshments. Adults of all cinnamon apple hand-pies. Exquisite for Get in the Game! on November 19. ages welcome. samples. Recipe handouts. November 15 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Be a part of the Guild of the Brick November 19 from 3:45 p.m. to 5:00 Thanksgiving Hours November 10 at 6:30 p.m. Join us for for ages 5 and older. Are you crazy about p.m. The High School Book Club meets. The Library will close at 6:00 p.m. on “Only Lovers Left Alive” as we continue Legos®? Then drop in! We provide the High School readers, this book club is Wednesday, November 26 and remain our Indie International Film Fest, Legos®, you bring the imagination. just for you! Join us for snacks and lively closed on Thursday, November 27. featuring selections from the world’s conversations. Stop by the Reference Regular hours will resume on Friday, top film festivals. This 2013 American November 17 at 3:30 p.m. Movie Desk to register and pick up a copy November 28, at 9:00 a.m. drama is part of the vampire genre Monday for students in grades 3-6. of the current book. Grades 9 and up. and involves a depressed musician who Drop in for a hit movie after school and Registration required. For additional information, call the reunites with his lover, though their enjoy free popcorn and drinks. We’ll Rocky River Public Library at 440- romance - which has already endured feature newly released DVDs, along with November 22 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 333-7610 or visit www.rrpl.org. several centuries - is disrupted by the everyone’s favorite classics. p.m. Retro Gaming Museum is a family arrival of an uncontrollable younger event. Before Minecraft, there was Dig

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