Old Brooklyn News

Serving our Community Since 1978 Spring 2017 Volume 39 Issue 1

Tree care tips for the Forest city p.12

OB Families GRoup ORganizes unique “Restaurant Week” p.20

These Homeowners love life in old brooklyn p.22 School success starts with high-quality preschool. Find the right high-quality preschool for your 3- or 4-year-old.

High-quality seats are open throughout . Scholarships are available with special scholarships for 4-year-olds!

Enroll your child before the end of the year.

Visit PRE4CLE.org or call Starting Point at 216-575-0061

Find a preschool with open seats in your neighborhood. Visit pre4cle.org/preschool-oenings

Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 2 We are the accessible, family-friendly Cleveland neighborhood where business and people come to grow.

To accomplish that vision, we provide: Community and Special Events Block Club Organizing Safety and Crime Watch Small Business Assistance Real Estate Redevelopment Community Gardening Housing Rehabilitation Neighborhood Marketing Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation Community Education Planning Code Enforcement Old Brooklyn Advocacy Spring is here! Board of Directors The weather is changing, the Indians are training, and my favorite time in Old Book Chrobak, President Brooklyn is upon us. Spring is the season of new beginnings and a great time to David Martin, Vice President consider ways to improve our community and lives. This edition of the Old Brook- Fr. Doug Brown, Corporate Secretary lyn news shares stories to inspire you to consider home improvements and be a part Tiffany Sedlacek, Treasurer of the effort to enhance neighborhood beautification. Mike Caparanis Reggie Clark Recently members of our staff took part in a collective discussion of how Cleveland John Jenkins can market its neighborhoods to tourists. A survey done by Destination Cleveland Christina Kovach found that guests often determine whether a city is safe or appealing based on the Sean McGrane way it looks as you walk through its streets. Regardless of the statistics or data the Richey Piiparinen way something “feels” was used to decide opinion. Laura Ponikvar Kristen Wilson This is a valuable piece of information for more than just downtown businesses and John Young hotels. How our neighborhood looks to guests or potential new neighbors matters. The things we can do to make the streets clean and attractive, from gardening to Staff picking up bits of trash, can go a long way to enhance Old Brooklyn. Jeffrey T. Verespej Executive Director Spring is also a time for planting our future harvests. The Ben Franklin community garden is a local treasure and the largest community garden in ! Each year Jayme Lucas-Bukszar more than 200 plots are tended by residents and there’s still time to apply for a Residential Real Estate Project Manager spot. If you’re interested in more information call our office. Happy Spring! Ramses Clements Until June, Community Outreach Coordinator

Rosemary Mudry Director, Economic Development

Jason A. Powers Jeffrey T. Verespej Bohdan Chrobak Director, Marketing and Development Executive Director President, Board of Directors Barb Spaan Outreach Manager

Sandy Worona Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation Board Meetings, Outreach Coordinator and Old Brooklyn News are every fourth Tues. of the month, 6 - 7:30 pm. Ed Zubek MetroHealth Old Brooklyn Health Center, 4299 Pearl Rd. Wi-Fi Support Meetings open to the public but the board reserves the right to close portions of the meetings. To confirm call 216-459-1000.

Old Brooklyn.com 3 INSIDE the OLD BROOKLYN NEWS

5 Spring Cleaning 6 Home Improvement Tips 9 South Hills Hardware 11 Ruth Zehnder 100th Birthday 14 OBCDC Membership 16 Naturalists 18 History - U.S. National Park 100th Anniversary 19 Purple Hearts Homes 20 Old Brooklyn Families Group This month’s OBN writers 22 Old Brooklyn Home Owners Tricia L Chaves, Chad Clink, 24 & 25 Church & News Events Gloria Ferris, Lynette Filips, 25 Classified & News Events Mark Holan, Kristen Wilson Editing by Old Brooklyn CDC 26 Community Meetings 27 Town Crier CONTENTS

Interested in advertising in our new, Old Brooklyn is seeking writers for the new full color and large Quarterly edition. distribution magazine? For more information visit: Contact Sandy Worona OldBrooklyn.com/opportunities and fill out at 216-459-1000 an application or reach [email protected] Jason Powers at [email protected]

The Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation was founded with the mission to revitalize and connect our community. By uniting and empowering residents, business owners and civic leaders our work aims to support economic, physical, and social improvement. Our mission is only possible with the support of our community. Unlike other non-profits our work is uniquely tied to the Old Brooklyn neighborhood. As such our efforts to bring about social and economic progress can only be accomplished with the generous support of residents and businesses. Through membership in Old Brooklyn CDC, you commit to the importance of supporting our cause, and we simply could not operate without you. Your support helps us to achieve this neighborhood’s goals. OBCDC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that serves the Old Brooklyn community.

Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 4 Spring Cleaning: The perfect time for home improvements by OBCDC Staff work with partners to develop the property to a high standard Our neighborhood is filled with distinctive housing; from and sell to owner occupiers only. bungalows to colonials, stately homes to cozy cottages, Old As part of our goal we look to develop homes to “stretch” Brooklyn has something for everyone. Drive down any street the market. This means setting standards such as granite count- in Old Brooklyn, and you’ll find homes treated with meticu- ers in the kitchen, high quality materials throughout and the lous care and others that could use some extra love. OBCDC aforementioned addition of half-baths. A recently renovated is dedicated to supporting and improving the housing market OBCDC home sold for over $100,000 on street that other- and our home values and we’d like to share a bit of what we’ve wise had a median price of $75,000. This creates new comps learned. for realtors and translates into higher values for homes in the OBCDC is guided by a strategic plan (OB2020) which community. requires our organization to operate as data-driven. This Recently OBCDC has completed over 35 homes with means we use data, facts and figures to guide our projects and more than $2 million invested into the neighborhood. As programs. Over the last year values continue to climb plus our Neighborhood De- residents can feel secure velopment staff have poured in investing in their prop- over housing data to better erties and updating them. understand our market and This, in turn, creates a there’s reason to be optimis- more attractive neighbor- tic. Across the board 2016 hood and continues to showed gains in the Old support property values. Brooklyn housing market. Our anecdotal re- Whether the homes were near search shows that Old Memphis or Broadview, big Brooklyn is becoming or small we saw data showing more and more appealing that sales were up. to residents of Cleveland As we looked deeper into looking for better value. the market data we found The “boom” of the near some interesting things that west side is apparent in could help improve the value the skyrocketing prices of of your homes and the neigh- housing in some areas. As borhood as a whole. For ex- more people look to own ample, when a home had an homes in Cleveland near additional half-bath we found that values went up a significant their work, entertainment options or favorite restaurants, Old amount. The addition of the half bath more than made up for Brooklyn is becoming an attractive option. Realtors have no- the cost in installation. This has guided OBCDC as we do our ticed the trend toward Old Brooklyn by those looking for a own rehabs. place to start a family and buy their first home. OBCDC is charged with supporting and enhancing the If you’re a homeowner and interested in making the most community and does so through many programs including res- of your property, consider some of these tips from Jayme Lu- idential development. The organization finds properties from cas, our residential manager. With her more than 20 years of a variety of sources including the county land bank, private experience in housing, she manages our residential services and donations, sheriff sales and the general market. From there we knows what can help add value to a home.

2017 OBYL 2017 Old Brooklyn Youth League Co-Ed Softball for Children ages 4 through 18 REGISTRATION DATES: Come Celebrate Our 41st Year! Enjoy A Summer Of Fun Entry Fee: Saturdays, March 11th, 18th & 25th $35 each player -- PayPal available & April 1st & 8th $10 Off if registered by April 15th 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. For Additional Information visit: www.obyl.org Brooklyn Hts. United Church of Christ, 2005 W. Schaaf Rd. (Corner of Schaaf & Broadview Rds.)

Old Brooklyn.com 5 Saturday, May 20th “There are some easy things you can do to start. As they Estabrook Recreation Center say, make sure it looks good from the curb, a little garden- ing can go a long way.” Homeowners should also make sure 4125 Fulton Rd. your systems are up to code and will pass inspections. And, Registration starts at 11:00 a.m. of course, consider ways to improve bathrooms and kitchens, Explore Cleveland’s Old Brooklyn two spaces that new homeowners are always looking at when neighborhood by bicycle and considering a purchase. experience some of the best of our local businesses

This spring consider what oury options for home im- For more information provement and remember that a little goes a long way! For website: pedalforprizes.org more tips and ideas check out the list below from house logic. email: [email protected]

TOP 5 HOME IMPROVEMENT TIPS

1. Swap out an Outdated Bathroom Vanity Changing out big fixtures, like a bathroom vanity, might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. There are some really fantastic options that aren’t pre-assembled, which allow you to customize them with different legs, drawer fronts, and hardware.

2. Update Your Kitchen Backsplash Did you know that you can buy fantastic tile in stock at big-box stores? Keep in mind that your kitchen backsplash and countertop go hand-in-hand with one another. Make sure the materials work well together and you’ll have a beautiful new look for your kitchen!

3. Bring in Some Plant Friends Look at all your favorite home magazines, every single one of them has some sort of living vegetation bringing color and life to the space. What if you don’t have a green thumb? Cacti and aloe vera plants will put your mind at ease. They’re easy to keep alive with very little maintenance. 4. Add Shelf Liners to Cabinetry and Closets Shelf liners will keep your possessions protected and add style that can be swapped out easily. It makes your space look extra custom too. Try heavy-duty vinyl liner that’s easy to take out and clean. There’s a whole slew of patterned con- tact paper that will make a statement every time you open your cupboard.

5. Paint Something Painting is one of the easiest and quickest ways to update a space. Before you start throwing heaps of money around and/or hauling everything you own to the thrift store, pull out your paint roller. You’ll be amazed at the new perspective a different color can bring. Lightening up the current color can make a space feel larger; adding a bold accent color will change the entire mood.

Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 6 BROADVIEW SCHAAF MARATHON 4661 Broadview Road A Jenkins Inc. A Jenkins Inc. 459-8674 or 741-2921 Cleveland 216-631-4800 www.bsmautoservice.com Medina 330-278-2799 ROOFINGROOFING && SIDINGSIDING www.jenkinsexteriors.com Missing Shingles? Wind Damage?

Since Gutters 1980 Vinyl Siding Aluminum Siding Refinishing Don Ralston, Proprietor 29 years in the same location $250 OFF Foreign / Domestic Auto repairs Alignments Tire sales / Service Towing Roof Replacement With mention of this ad at time $ of estimate. Prior sales excluded. 10 Off any purchase over $50 Mention this offer. Can be applied on Auto Repair only towards insurance deductible. Present coupon at time of write-up A. Jenkins Inc. 216-631-4800 Not valid with any other offer “Bob did a fantastic job. We’re Pick up / Delivery available in Old Brooklyn extremely pleased with the work he did. He is honest and professional.” Mechanics are -Nancy

NATIONAL CAR MART Pearl Dental Ohio’s largest wholesale Mit Brahmbhatt D.D.S. dealership for over 50 years! 4194 Pearl Rd. Locally owned & operated Parking in rear 216-459-1185 Open to the public with over 400 vehicles being sold each month.

New Patients Welcome!Convenient Flexible Hours Call to confirm Weekend emergencies only

Serving the Community with Same Day Appointments 9255 Brookpark Rd. Parma, OH 44129 Crowns Bridges Fillings Dentures “Se habla espanol” Implants Whitening Cosmetics

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We can help. Call us direct at: Most Insurance Accepted

216-200-6000 24 Hour On Call Emergencies Stop in or visit Call 440-409-9682 www.nati onalcarmart.com

Old Brooklyn.com 7 Career Opportunities

• Love working with children • Health Insurance & • Entry Level and Career Generous Matching Positions Available Retirement Plan • Immediate Openings • College Tuition Assistance • Growth Opportunities • Holidays and Paid Time Off • Nonprofit Leader in Quality • Discounted Childcare Early Childhood Care & Education and Afterschool Programs

4830 Memphis Ave. (corner of W. 49th St. & Memphis Ave.) Apply Online at HorizonOhio.org 216-661-2626 WE DELIVER Cleveland / Brooklyn SUBS, SALADS, WINGS, Free High-Quality ½ CALZONES, STROMBOLI, PASTA Day Preschool – 4 year-old program

An Old Style Old Brooklyn • Must be 4 or turn 4 by 9/30/16 and meet 4140 Pearl Rd., income guideline (<200% FPG) Pizza Shop Cleveland • High-Quality Kindergarten Readiness 216-584-KIDS (5437) Curriculum and Instruction Family Owned & Operated by • Degreed Teachers Market Square the Bellisario family for over 2500 W. 25th St., • Morning and Afternoon Options Available 40 Years in Old Brooklyn Cleveland • Neighborhood pick up to 216-930-KIDS (5437) and from centers bellamemphispizza.com Check Us Out On Facebook! Bella Pizza Old Brooklyn Apply Online at HorizonOhio.org

Open 7 Days A Week Hours: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Nick Georgopoulos Amerivest Financial Services Inc. Pearl Brookpark 216-459-9265 4712 State Rd. Car Wash Can Your 5133 Pearl Road CD match (Corner of Pearl and Brookpark Rds.) These 216-661-8030 Rates?

UNLIMITED WASH PLANS Bankers Elite 3 Bankers Elite 5 Bankers Elite 7 $ 99 2.00% 2.90% 3.10% Starting at + tax 3 Year Guarantee Rate 5 Year Guarantee Rate 7 Year Guarantee Rate 19 Issued to Age 90 Issued to Age 90 Issued to Age 85

More discounts available at: www.pearlbrookparkcarwash.com Bankers Elite (Bankers Elite-0112-OH) is a single premium deferred annuity. All withdrawals during the initial guarantee rate period are subject to surrender charges and market value adjustment. The death benefit may be subject to surrender charges and market value adjustment unless the death benefit is paid out over a 5 Pearl Brookpark year period or longer. Maximum surrender charges are 7.9, 7.0, 6.2, 5.3, 4.4, 3.5, #800 2.7% but become zero after the initial rate guarantee period expires. The minimum Car Wash guaranteed rate after the initial rate guarantee expires will be determined each $ $ $ year, based on a formula prescribed by the insurance code. It may not be less than 3.00 OFF 3.00 OFF 3.00 OFF 1% nor more than 3%. The rate determined by this formula for 2016 is 1.0%. Rates YOUR NEXT YOUR NEXT YOUR NEXT effective 11/15/16 and are subject to change without notice. The IRS may impose a penalty for withdrawals prior to age 59 ½. Annuities issued by Liberty Bankers Life CAR WASH CAR WASH CAR WASH Insurance Company, 1605 LBJ Freeway, Suite 710, Dallas, TX 75234. Expires 3-31-17 Expires 4-30-17 Expires 5-31-17 www.libertybankerslife.com LBL 16-80

Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 8 Shop Local: South Hills Hardware by Tricia L Chaves

One of the most desirable of Old Brooklyn’s amenities is arguably its close proximity to shopping centers and easy access to everyday essentials. But when it comes to tackling home im- provement projects, you needn’t take a ride to Ridge Park Square or Steelyard Commons for your provisions. In fact, most items can be found right in our own backyard at South Hills Hardware.

According to co-owner Adam Cook, the history of the hum- ble “old time” hardware store goes back more than a hundred years when the original operators opened on Broadview Road in 1916. The Wygonski family acquired the business in 1949 and relocated to the expansive retail space and greenhouse they con- structed in the South Hills area in 2000.

Rest assured, you won’t have to sacrifice convenience or pay a higher cost to support a local business. “The big box stores have a greater depth of merchandise due to the difference in size, but we The spring season offers an ideal climate to improve your have pretty much anything you need to fix up your home here. property’s curb appeal while preparing for summer fun out- Nowadays, you can click your phone and get a price for Home doors. Whether it’s for necessary maintenance like gutter Depot or Lowes immediately. I shop them every week; we have to cleaning and paint touch-ups or planting a garden, you’ll find be in line and competitive,” Cook explained of his commitment one-stop shopping to complete your project at South Hills to offer value to his customers who choose South Hills Hardware Hardware. over home improvement superstores.

Simple Spring Spruce Up Declutter Chris Wygonski Adam Cook Take inventory of your home, inside and out. Elimi- nate unnecessary items and corral them into cardboard boxes from South Hills Hardware. Make your trash someone else’s treasure by calling a local organization such as Volunteers of America for a curbside pickup.

Light Landscaping www.southhillshardware.com corner of: Tuxedo Ave. & Schaaf Rd. next to Lunch Box Deli Most lawns need a little TLC after winter. South Hills Full Service Garden Center - Top Soil/Mulch Hardware has rakes to remove any lingering leaves and debris Handyman Services - Interior Painting and large paper bags for easy disposal on trash pickup day. Window & Screen Repair Topsoil, annual plants and mulch are the three key ingredients Furnace / AC Repair / Installation for beautifying your front and back yard on a budget. Lump Charcoal & Propane Exchange A Fresh Coat

Painting your home’s entire facade is pricey but you can give it a frugal facelift with a fresh coat of color on just your South Hills Hardware, 224 Old Brookpark Road. entryway door or shutters. Spray paint is a quick fix for re- Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, storing rusted hardware, mailboxes, railings and wrought iron 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and closed on Sunday. patio furniture and South Hills Hardware has a full line of 216-749-2121 southhillshardware.com, paint products for both interior and exterior applications.

Old Brooklyn.com 9 Gregory P. G odorhazy funeral home “Encouraging Economy in Funeral Costs”

A staff and facility dedicated to serving the families of Old Brooklyn and the surrounding communities, with a superior level of service, detail and affordability.

Gregory P. Godorhazy Funerals  Cremations  Prearrangements Funeral Director 4801 Memphis Avenue ✳ Cleveland, Ohio 44144 ✳ 216-351-4625

Alex Millan Owner OH license # 44786 5501 Clark Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44102

Phone: 216-334-2653 Serving Toll Free: 1-866-964-4328 Email: [email protected]

Service / Installation / Sales General Contractor * Heating *Cooling *Home Improvements *24 hr. Service *Commercial *Residential Paticipating contractor for the CLEAResult program through Dominion

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Open to the public Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sunday 11a.m. - 5 p.m.

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Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 10 Old Brooklyn congratulates Ruth Zehnder, on her 100th birthday! Born in 1917 during World War I, Ruth Zehnder first moved to the Cleveland area more than 50 years ago with her beloved husband and four children. Her husband, Fred, taught at St Mark’s Lutheran for several years and his father George Zehnder taught in Cleveland for 50 years. Ruth was blessed again with three more daughters and an- other son, making the count an even eight. She currently has seven children living in Ohio, eighteen grand- children, and has several great-grandchildren. If you were to ask Ruth what her secret is for a long and healthy life, she would say “Gives thanks! I always gave thanks to God that all of my chil- dren were born healthy with two arms, two legs, good eyes and ears. I am always so thankful, and I appreciate how God has cared for me.” Attorney REGAL REALTY, INC.

James M. Your Neighborhood Specialist for BROOKLYN/OLD BROOKLYN Hungerford ROGER PETERS, OWNER/BROKER General Practice Thinking of Buying or Selling? 2424 Broadview Road Call us 216-789-0262 216-398-4100 Serving Brooklyn/Old Brooklyn [email protected] For over 40 YEARS!! Family Owned and Operated  Family Law  Real Estate  Civil Litigation Rodger Peters John Peters  Estate Planning Brooklyn Homeowner Old Brooklyn Homeowner  Probate & Trusts For Results - Call Today (216) 789-0262 36 years in Old Brooklyn www.regalrealtyinc.net

Old Brooklyn.com 11 Forest City Tree Tips

by Chad Clink, Community Forester at The Holden Arboretum This winter has not been typical in the way of That plan might start with winter pruning to Northeast Ohio weather. You may be noticing trees like improve tree health and structure followed by spring silver maple and Kousa dogwood flowering earlier than root and soil management as part of a plant health care expected in your yard and across the community. These program. flowers are the result of a very warm stretch of February weather and can cause issues like cold injury and drain Take the time to have a professional inspect energy reserves. your trees in an effort to decrease long term costs of maintenance while maximizing the benefits of your tree So, why does this matter to you? Trees provide a resource. Plant a tree, water, hug, and repeat! great deal of benefit when sited properly and cared for. They clean the air we breathe, the water we drink, while cooling and shading where we work and play. We see HONEY HUT ICE CREAM property values increase with the presence of trees and OPEN FOR OUR 44th SEASON IN a reduction in our heating and cooling bills from their screening of wind and shading of structures. But, trees OLD BROOKLYN March 17, 2017 require care in the urban environment to sustain these benefits. Visit our other locations This information matters because ouy can play opening this Spring in a significant part in protecting and growing Cleveland’s Solon, Parma, Brecksville urban forest. You should consult with a Certified Ar- and Brunswick borist or Registered Consulting Arborist to inspect your trees this time of year. Certified Arborists can provide 4674 State Rd. you with a plan to care for your tree across the season. 216-749-7077

BEST OF INSTAGRAM

# WHATS YOUR

OLD BROOKLYN

Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 12 RODRIGUEZ Over 34 years of experience Heating & Plumbing In Business Since 1950 in Old Brooklyn 2335 Broadview Road 216-398-3400

4215 Ridge Rd. Installation - Repair - Service “service and repair at a price that’s fair” Air Conditioning / Furnaces Monday - Friday Complete Plumbing 8 am - 6 pm Hot Water Tanks Installed Saturday by appointment only

Complete automotive mechanical repairs & services

Gas Grills - Parts - Service & Installation MHP Grills / Natural Gas - LP Gas FREE 4 tire rotation with Carrier Furnaces LUBE  OIL  FILTER service Air Cleaners / Humidifi ers $ Family Owned & Operated by 10 Off Bob & Laurie Yalanty - Old Brooklyn Residents State License # 31274 Major credit cards accepted Service call Licensed - Bonded - Insured Mary Queen of Peace 4423 Pearl Rd. 216-749-2323 www.maryqop.org

“In the heart of Old Brooklyn”

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Old Brooklyn.com 13

Join the Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation!

Joining our organization is the first, easiest and most accessible way to show that you support your neighborhood. Old Brooklyn is Cleveland’s family-friendly neighborhood where business and peo- ple come to grow.

A neighborhood with a rich history of multi-generational businesses and house- holds, our community is a place where people invest and set down roots.

Ben Franklin Community Garden As a member of OBCDC you show you are part of that invest- ment and support our mission to bring together civic leaders to develop a vibrant place. Members can have their voice heard at our Annual Meeting as our organization’s membership votes on new Board Members, receive communications on exciting news and events, and have exclusive opportunities to engage with other mem- bers as the CDC grows.

Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 14 Residents and Guests enjoying Cleveland Summer Cinema at Loew Park Lastly, as a membershipBecome driven a Member & Invest in Your Community nonprofit our mission is guided by a Name: Board of Directors; toMembership be considered for New  Business: a position on the board Renewal one  must be a Address: member2017 in - 2018 good MEMBERSHIP standing $25 per OBCDC (Your membership is tax deductible) code of regulations. Phone: Renovations have begun at the former Individual  Residential Pearl St. Savings and Loan Building 18Membership years & older is how At Large you show you’reEmail: Organizational  Commercial a part of the effort to Institutionalmake Old Brooklyn a great place to grow; Volunteer opportunities are available that you’re a part of  the Non team Profit and believe in our mission.  Church

Checks payable to: Old Brooklyn CDC. Mail membership form to: Old Brooklyn CDC 2339 Broadview Rd. We hope you’ll consider Cleveland, OH joining 44109 today! www.oldbrooklyn.com 216-459-1000

Membership date Date paid Amount

To apply: Fill out the following form and submit to OBCDC in person or through email ([email protected])

Become a Member & Invest in Your Community

Membership Name:

New  Business: Renewal  Address: 2017 - 2018 MEMBERSHIP $25 (Your membership is tax deductible) Phone: Individual  Residential 18 years & older  At Large Email:

Organizational  Commercial  Institutional Volunteer opportunities are available  Non Profit  Church

Checks payable to: Old Brooklyn CDC. Mail membership form to: Old Brooklyn CDC 2339 Broadview Rd. Cleveland, OH 44109 www.oldbrooklyn.com 216-459-1000

Membership date Date paid Amount

Old Brooklyn.com 15 Neighbor-Friendly wildlife gardening takes root by Gloria Ferris Traditional American landscaping focuses on maintaining a For a bird-friendly habitat, install native plants that will offer manicured green lawn. But lately, many Old Brooklyn and Brooklyn year-round food in the form of seeds, berries, nuts, and nectar. Pro- Centre gardeners are converting a portion of lawn to conserve water, vide water year-round. A simple birth bath will suffice. In the warm- provide habitat and food for wildlife, and attract birds and butterflies er months, water should to their homes. be changed every two Using native plants and reducing the amount of lawn may seem or three days to prevent a strange way to control storm water run-off, but it works. The long mosquito larvae from roots keep the water from flowing down driveways into the storm hatching. drain. Eliminate insecti- Start small. Replacing a portion of lawn with a native ground cides from your yard. In- cover could be the way to introduce your neighbors to an alternative sects are a primary food to a manicured lawn. source for many birds When converting lawn to a wildlife habitat, it is important to and are an important design the space so that the features you incorporate become part of source of protein and fats an over-all plan and structure. for juvenile birds. Take a walk in the Metroparks for inspiration. Choose trees and Put out nesting boxes. Make sure the boxes have ventilation shrubs that are part of the natural ecosystem. The plan should include holes but none in the top which would allow water to enter the nest- trees, plants, shrubs and flowers native to our geographical area. ing area. Be watchful for sparrows and European starlings taking up Features to consider in a plan design are a water garden or pond, residence which harm and outcompete native birds. a rock garden, and plant islands. Mapping the placement of these To attract butterflies, install red, yellow, orange, pink and pur- features and connecting them with mulched paths will create a guide ple blossoms that are flat topped or clustered, and have short flower on how to proceed with your wildlife garden. tubes. It is imperative to install native plants because many butter- flies and native flowering plants have co-evolved and depend on each other for survival and reproduction. Native plants provide but- terflies with the nectar or foliage they need as cater- pillars and adults. Plant for continuous bloom to get butterflies to come back for more. If you would like them to take up residence in your garden, be sure to plant “host plants” that serve as caterpillar food. Place flat stones in your garden to provide a place to rest and bask in the sun. Butterflies need sun for orientation and to warm their wings for flight. Creating a garden retreat that is inviting to both wildlife and humans is quite rewarding. Provid- ing a gathering place where friends and neighbors can Add human touches. Bird baths, benches, and water features relax, retreat from the stress of the world, and enjoy the beauty that add interest that draws people to the natural landscape. surrounds them is added value. Advanced planning will allow a gardener to start small and manage resources so that costs and time can be allocated effectively. A realistic time frame for conversion can be chosen with less disruption to the Last year Old Brooklyn CDC began a pollinator garden overall look of the landscape. initiative. For more information about garden designs and free If you complete your wildlife garden in sections, your neighbors seeds for flowering plants that attract pollinators like butterflies will have time to adjust to your landscape’s new look. Well-designed get in touch with them at 216-459-1000 x 209 or borders, paths, hedges, plant islands and fencing frame the features email [email protected]. of the garden and provide a neat appearance which neighbors will appreciate.

Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 16 Immanuel Lutheran Church RIVERSIDE CEMETERY A German\English Lutheran Church “A tradition 2928 Scranton Road, Cleveland, OH 44113 of personal 216-781-9511 care & concern for your loved ones” A Cleveland Landmark Serving our Community Since 1876  All Faiths  Personalization  Traditional and Natural  Above Ground and Flush Burials Memorials  Cremation Columbaria  Ample Space Available and Urn Garden Including New Group  Chapel - all types of Sections services  Pre-Planning Pastor Horst Hoyer Offi ce Hours: Mon. - Sat. 8 am - 4 pm Sunday Services: German 9:00 a.m. English 10:30 a.m. 3607 Pearl Road @ I-71 Sunday School during English Service Cleveland, OH 44109 Serving the Cleveland area for over 125 years. (216)-351-4800 www.immanluthchurch.org [email protected] www.riversidecemeterycleveland.org DEPENDABLE ELECTRIC Is Your Fuse Box Old & Unsafe? Mike Azzarello Brings You 15 Years’ Experience From the Illuminating Co.

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 LICENSED  BONDED INSURED www.dependableelectric.com Call 440-845-8661 Old Brooklyn.com 17 U.S. National Park Service observes 100th anniversary by Lynette Filips issues like women’s suffrage, civ- [email protected] il rights, and most recently, gay It’s still the decade of 100-year anniversaries in Northeast Ohio, rights, began in more ‘modern’ and so I’m back to writing about notable organizations celebrating times. National heritage areas centennials in 2016 and 2017. This month’s topic, though, will cover and historic trails and waterways a more extensive area than the Cleveland/ sites I have also been added to the sites wrote about in July and September, because this quarter the National which the National Park Service Park Service is in the spotlight. oversees, Although the movement to preserve scenic areas west of the Mis- Twelve of the NPS’s sites are sissippi River as national parks began with the designation of Yel- in Ohio. The Cuyahoga Valley lowstone National Park in 1872, the National Park Service (NPS) National Park (CVNP), the one we know today wasn’t actually established until 1916. In the early closest to our neighborhood, years, the Department of the Interior oversaw the na- and probably the one we know tional parks, but in 1916, Congress created the NPS as a new agency the best, is a relative late-comer within the Department of the Interior. Its mission was to conserve compared to other earlier Ohio and protect these parklands and to leave them “unimpaired for the NPS sites. enjoyment of future generations.” Established on December 27th, 1974 as the Cuyahoga Na- These days the NPS verseaso over 400 such sites (412 according tional Recreation Area, its name was changed to Cuyahoga Valley to a written source which I consulted last autumn; 417 according National Park on October 11th, 2000. The Park consists of 33,000 to a more recent oral source) – 3 National Scenic Trails, 4 Nation- acres between Cleveland and Akron in the vicinity of the Cuyahoga al Parkways, 5 National Roads, 10 National Seashores, 11 National River and the . It offers a wide range of recre- Battlefields, 18 National Recreation Areas, 19 National Preserves, 30 ational, historical and cultural opportunities, and an average of 2.2 National Memorials, 59 National Parks, 78 National Historic Sites, million people visit it every year. Just recently the National Park Ser- 83 National Monuments and 187 other designated locations. vice announced that Cuyahoga Valley was the eleventh most visited The range in genre has very much expanded beyond early pre- park in its system. served areas like Yellowstone in Wyoming, Idaho and Montana; Yo- The uyahogaC Valley National Park formerly had two visitor semite (1890) in California; and Grand Canyon (1919) in Arizona. centers – the Canal Visitor Center on Canal Rd. in Valley View and Military parks and national monuments were added to the NPS’s ju- the Happy Days Visitor Center on Route 303 east of Peninsula. The risdiction in the 1930s; national parkways, seashores and urban parks Park’s main visitor center has since relocated to the Boston Store were added in the 1960s; and places associated with important social on Boston Mills Rd. in Peninsula, the one on Canal Rd. has been reconfigured as the Canal Exploration Center, and the one on Route 303 is now used for special events. The CVNP has eight partners which share its goals and work with it to achieve them. They are: Conservancy for the Cuyahoga Valley National Park; Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway; Cuyahoga Valley Countryside Conservancy; ; Metro Parks, Serving Summit County; Eastern National (which operates NPS bookstores); Ohio & Erie Canalway Association; and Inn at Brandywine Falls. Blossom Music Center, the Western Reserve Historical Society’s Hale Farm and Village, Crown Point Ecology Center, Boston Mills/ Brandywine Ski Resort, and numerous homes and farms are among the structures and establishments which lie within the boundaries of the CVNP. Some are owned by the NPS but most are privately owned. One hundred and ten miles of the Ohio and Erie Canal; the Towpath Trail alongside the Canal; railroad tracks; and a section of roadway known as America’s Byway pass through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Space limitations keep me from writing about the other Ohio NPS sites this time, but I will continue with them in June. In the meantime, here is a list of the ten sites which I still need to cover –

Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument Xe( - nia); David Berger National Memorial (Beachwood); Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park; Fallen Timbers Bat- tlefield and Fort Miami National Historic Site(Toledo); First La- dies National Historic Site (Canton); James A. Garfield National Historic Site (Mentor); Hopewell Culture National Historical Park (Chillicothe); National Aviation Heritage Area (Dayton); North Country National Scenic Trail (through many counties); Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial (Put-in-Bay); and William Howard Taft National Historic Site (Cincinnati).

Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 18 Cleveland firefighter finds a new home in Old Brooklyn with the help of Purple Heart Homes by Mark Holan Their shared experiences in the National Guard created a strong At the end of May, Cleveland firefighter Alex Rychlik will move sense of community and a deep passion to give back and make a dif- into a renovated home on Pelley Drive. The U.S. Navy veteran and ference in the lives of Service Connected Disabled Veterans. a 2004 St. Edward High School graduate was able to purchase the As both men reintegrated into their communities, they were home with the help of Purple Heart Homes, a 501(c)3 public charity. humbled by the number of people who would come up to them to Initially, Rychlik was working on securing a mortgage through Neighborhood Housing Services, but he hit a snag. thank them for their service and sacrifice. They were trained to never “At first,” Rychlike said, “NHS said that the stipulations and leave a soldier behind on the battlefield, and as two combat wounded guidelines had changed, and I made too much to be able to work Iraq Veterans, they became committed to not leaving them behind at with them. Then they said, ‘We have a very close relationship with home. Purple Heart Homes. Why don’t you give them a call.’” Recognizing an unmet need, they decided to reach across the The story of how Purple generational divide to provide Heart Homes started is an in- housing solutions for qualified spiring one. Service Connected Disabled Purple Heart Homes Veterans and together started co-founders John Gallina and Purple Heart Homes in 2008. Dale Beatty joined the North During Rychlik’s Carolina National Guard in four years in the Navy, he was 1996. During their service, deployed twice on the USS both Gallina and Beatty had the Enterprise, the country’s first opportunity to respond to calls nuclear aircraft carrier. He rec- from the Governor of North ognizes that, as a veteran, he is Carolina to help victims of eligible for certain programs, Hurricane Fran and Hurricane but he considers himself lucky Floyd. It was through those ex- to be able to give back to his periences that they gained their fellow veterans. humanitarian passion and spir- “The way urpleP it. Home supported by Purple Heart Homes on Pelley Drive Hearts Homes works,” Rychlik When they were both 25 said, “I feel that they really fill years old, they served our country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. that gap between the VA and getting an immaculate home or getting TheWar in Iraq defined both Gallina and Beatty. Their unit was a fixer-upper. People donate homes to Purple Heart Homes, too. attached to the 1st infantry Division near Bayji, Iraq. On November “I kept thinking that I didn’t deserve the assistance, because I 15, 2004, they were on a dangerous mission to provide security for an am capable. But what they’ve been telling me is that they seek out younger veterans to help. It goes in a full circle. They take the money engineer unit that was sweeping the area for mines…a route that had that I’m mortgaging out and help older veterans with home repairs.” numerous land mine and IED explosions over the previous weeks. Rychlik comes from a family that work on masonry, and he wants to SPC Gallina was driving with Sgt. Beatty and two other mem- do whatever he can to help other veterans in need. bers of the unit. The vehicle struck two anti-tank mines that deto- “I’d like to help out with that work in the future, help build nated ripping through the weaker armor in the floor leaving Beatty a ramps for homes or widen doorways,” Rychlik. “It really comforts me double amputee below the knees and Gallina with severe back inju- to think that I could do those things, too.” ries, Traumatic Brain Injury and Post Traumatic Stress.

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Old Brooklyn.com 19 plans month-long restaurant tour!

by Kristen Wilson

After the success of Old Brooklyn Small Business Saturday, Old The Old Brooklyn Restaurant Month schedule is as follows: Brooklyn Families Group members felt it was important to keep the promotion of the assets in our neighborhood going strong. As with Memphis Ave.: March 5-11 many of our local businesses, there are plenty of hidden gems in our Pearl Rd.: March 12-19 dining scene that many of us may not get to regularly or that should State Rd.: March 19-25 be shared with others outside of our neighborhood. What better way Broadview Rd.: March 26-April 1 to showcase them than putting on Old Brooklyn’s first restaurant week? Only with a twist! Current participants include, Dina’s Pizza & Pub, Suzie’s Fam- The ldO Brooklyn Families Group is planning a month-long ily Restaurant, Jack Frost Donuts, El Rinconcito Chapin, Larry’s event to encourage Old Brooklyn residents to dine local. We will be Tavern, Wexler’s Tavern, Café Miami, Charlie’s Diner, Sabor Miami featuring restaurants from one major Old Brooklyn street each week Café & Gallery, Gabe’s, China Wok and Cleats Club Seat Grille. in the month of March starting Sunday, March 5th. The event will be More restaurants will be added soon! promoted by OBFG on our website, Facebook and Twitter pages—as well as in the Old Brooklyn e-News Alerts. TheOld Brooklyn Families Group is for families and residents As if dining out wasn’t enough of a treat, we’re going to make who live in the Old Brooklyn neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, who things even more enticing. Each participating restaurant will have want to improve the neighborhood and connect with other residents. an OBFG Raffle Box and diners will be able to enter to win prizes We work towards organizing and planning fun and educational from our weekly drawings by submitting their receipts as their entry. family-friendly events, activities and programs in the Old Brooklyn The more you dine out, the more chances to win! One winner will neighborhood. We work with businesses, schools, churches and other be picked in the drawing at the end of each week, and a final grand- organizations in the neighborhood to make Old Brooklyn the best prize-drawing winner will be picked from all remaining receipts at place to live and raise a family. the end of the month. Be sure to watch for notifications about our live Facebook drawings. Winners will also be contacted by phone. The majority of our work happens at our events and monthly So mark your calendars and please help us spread the word! meetings. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm in Dina’s upstairs banquet room. We encourage everyone to join us at Visit OldBrooklynfamilies.com and follow us on Facebook. one of our meetings to get involved!

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Old Brooklyn.com 21 These home owners have fallen in love with Old Brooklyn; for good reason

by Mark Holan

Old Brooklyn, like other neighborhoods on the Near West Side, has seen an increase in the median sale prices of single-family homes in the past year. Jayme Lucas-Bukszar, residential real estate project man- ager for the Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation, keeps a close watch on the home sales for the OBCDC. “In 2016, our data shows housing values up through- out Old Brooklyn,” Lucas-Bukszar said. According to a recent analysis on Cleveland.com, median single-family home sale prices last year (2016) topped $100,000 in five Cleveland neighborhoods, more areas than before the housing crash of 2008. Before photo of living room floor Ohio City’s median single-family home sale prices made the biggest jump, going to $107,000 from $75,000 in 2015. Tremont’s median single-family home sale prices went from $146,000 in 2015 to $174,950 in 2016. Old Brooklyn’s median sales price for 2016 was $59,000 – up from $52,000 in 2015. Clearly, there’s an upward trend in the Near West Side housing market that bodes well for home buyers and sell- ers, alike. The Newcomer After photo of living room floor Finding a house to buy can be a daunting task. It can also be a lot of fun if you go about it in the right way. For Gabe Johnson, finding a house in Old Brooklyn bought it for $35,000. that he could afford was an educational experience. John- He moved in during the fall of 2015. He and his father son, co-founder and account executive of JAC Creative did immediate repairs to some plumbing issues, and luck- with an office on Pearl Road in Old Brookyn, wanted to ily for Gabe, the windows had been replaced and new stay close to where he worked. siding had been installed before he bought it. Johnson’s company was one of the small businesses “I just paid my property taxes,” Johnson said. “They who won a competition through OBCDC. They won a show you the value of the house, and according to my grant that allowed them to property taxes, it’s now valued at $71,000. That shows all move into the old Don & of the work I’ve put into it.” Judy’s Restaurant space next He has four roommates who help him pay his mort- to Busch Funeral Home. gage, and they also help with the ongoing renovation of Originally from the Can- the house. ton area, Johnson was al- “I’ve been living in Old Brooklyn for four years now,” ready living in a duplex on Johnson said. “I love it here. It’s close to everything as far Portman Avenue and began as I’m concerned. looking at houses he could “Originally, I was looking for a place to flip and sell,” fix up himself. Johnson said, “but I really fell in love with the neighbor- He found a house hood. I like this house now and I think I’m going to stay here for a while.” Gabe Johnson that met his specifica- Photo by Mark Holan tions on Stickney, just to the west of State Road, and Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 22 dormitory with wall-to-wall beds.

Rick expanded the kitchen into an in- viting family space with an island and large windows looking out to the back- yard. Two large maple tops crown the island and the family’s three-meal table, which sits under a vaulted ceiling.

Rick and Jen have no intentions on moving their family out of Old Brook- lyn. They can see themselves staying in the neighborhood even after the kids are grown and out of the house. Rick & Jen Mikesell with their sons Caleb, Adam, Luke, Simon, Eli & Joel Their neighbors are great. The housing stock around them is solid, and the home values are on the rise. Why move? The Family Rick has done a lot of work for people in the neigh- Jen and Rick Mikesell were looking to start a family th borhood. His first client, an elderly woman just down when they bought their home on W. 12 Street in 2001. the street, is still a client. It had been in foreclosure, but the brick bungalow had plenty of potential. When you add up all the pluses and minuses of Rick, a general contractor and owner of Cleveland what you want in a home and, most importantly, a Artisans, knew he had his work cut out for him, but the neighborhood, Old Brooklyn has a lot of offer. The old- house seemed like a wise investment for a young couple. er residents have stayed after their children moved out, and to “up-size” and then “down-size” again doesn’t Now married for 15 years, they have six sons: Caleb, make sense to Rick and Jen. 13, Adam, 11, Luke, 10, Simon, 8, Eli, 5, and Joel, 2. Jen home-schools them and Caleb and Adam are part of an “That’s the normal thing to do,” Rick said, “and online school program. that’s OK for most people. We like it right the way we are.” The house has a master bedroom and a nursery on the first floor. The second floor serves as the older boys’

Photos by Jen Mikesell After photos of the new expanded kitchen

Old Brooklyn.com 23 Church Notes

Archwood UCC Men’s Lenten Retreat Day - Sat., each Wed. March 1st - April 5th, platters, fish tacos, kids meals & a 2800 Archwood Ave. April 1, 8:30 am - 2:30 pm; lower 10:30 am & 7 pm. A light meal la carte items macaroni & cheese, 216-351-1060 archwooducc.org Church. served following each morning pizza, cabbage & noodles & des- UCC Fruit & Vegetable Sale - service & prior to the evening ser- sert. Call for more info. Lenten Parish Mission - 2nd & 4th Sat. of every month, with vice at 6 pm. $3 donation. Palm Father Anthony Marshall, SSS. 10 am - 2 pm., on the front side- Sunday, April 9th, worship ser- St. Mary Byzantine Church walk (Fellowship Hall if raining) Sun April 2 - Tues, April 4, 7 pm; Church vice 10 am. followed by brunch, 3600 Biddulph Ave. 2800 Bridge Ave. $3 donation. Maundy Thursday 216-749-7980 Breakfast With the Easter Bunny service Thurs., April 13th, 10:30 Lenten Fish Frys - Fri. of Great Mary Queen of Peace Sat., April 8, 9 - 11 am; $6 adults; am & 7:30 pm & Good Friday Lent, 4 - 7 pm. 4423 Pearl Rd. 216-749-2323 $4 children; Parish Center cafete- services noon & 7:30 pm. Eas- Pancake Breakfast – Sun., April 9th Fish Fry - Fri., March 3, 10, 17, ria. ter services Sun., April 16th, 8 & Night at the Races 24, 31; April 7, 4:30 - 7 pm. Par- – Sat., April 10:30 am. 29th, (Cathedral, Parma) ish Center cafeteria. Meals $8 - $9 Prayer Service for Those Affect- Spring Salad Bingo adults; $6 - $8 seniors, children. ed By Cancer - Sat, May 6, 7 pm; – Wed., May z 50 Plus Group - , March 5 & 26, 9:30 am - 12:30 Church. meets 1st & 3rd 3rd, (School gym) pm., $5; Parish Center cafeteria. Wed. of the month, noon. Bring a Polka Party – Sun. May 21st., Reverse Raffle Sat.,- May 13, brown bag lunch on March 15th, 1:30 - 6 pm (Crystal Chalet)13 Ladies’ Lenten Day of Reflection 6:30 pm; Parish Center. $35/per- April 5th & May 3rd. Beverage yrs. & over with adult. Music by Sat., March 11, 9 am - 2 pm; son incl. dinner. provided, games or program will Jody Maddie & The Honky Ex- Lower Church. follow. March 1st, April 19th & press. $10 donation. No BYOB. May 17th a hot lunch will be pro- Food, beer, drinks available for Concert: Western Reserve Chorale Pearl Road United Methodist Sun, March 12, 4 pm; Church. vided, $3 donation. A speaker will purchase. Call for more info. & 4200 Pearl Rd. give an informative presentation large table reservations. Diocese of Cleveland evening of 216- 661-5642 on Alzheimers on April 19th fol- confessions - Wed., March 15, 5 Rummage Sale -Fri. May 5th, 9 lowing lunch. Everyone 50 & over - 8 pm; Church. am. - 5 pm. Sat., May 6th, 9 am. is welcome. - 2 pm. (bag sale) Free Community Meal - Sun, St. Leo the Great Church March 19, April 16, May 21, 1 4900 Broadview Rd. Rhodes High School pm; Parish Center cafeteria. St. James Lutheran Church 216-661-1006 5100 Biddulph Ave. 216-302-4409 4771 Broadview Rd. Pastor: Tony Loseto “Relics From the Passion” Trav- Fish Fry - Lux Hall, Fri, March Sunday mornings - 10:30 am. 216-351-6499 eling Exhibit - Wed, March 29, 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st & Community group meetings 6 pm; Church. Lenten Services begin on Ash April 7th, 4:30 -7 pm. Dine-in or throughout the week. Wed. March 1st. Services held take-out. Dinners, fish sandwich www.gatewaychurcholdbrooklyn.com News & Events Benjamin Franklin Community Make individual pieces or fami- on the 11th. at this location. $55 Saturday, March 11th Garden Plots ly art works. A s donation of $5 TBall (4-6 yrs old) $65 PeeWee Genealogy & Family History Now accepting names for the 2017 per group is gladly accepted on (7-9 yrs old), Little F (10-12 yrs Research Clinic waiting list. Plot sizes are 20’×25’ workshop days. Children must be old), Big F (13-15 yrs old), Girls Brooklyn Branch Library, 3706 for $40 or a half plot 10’×12’ for accompanied by an adult. Due to Fast Pitch (12U & 14U) (family Pearl Rd.; 10:30 am. - 12 pm. $25. Call Sandy 216-459-1000 at interest & attendance, RSVP by discount offered for more than one Bring pencil, paper, & copies of Old Brooklyn Community Devel- calling 216-398-8556. child) Bring: 2 wallet size pictures & your research to date & an idea of opment to be put on the list. a copy of your birth certificate. To what you want to learn during the Sat. & Sun., March 4th - 19th save time, go to website & fill out session. Call 216-623-2864, Cen- Friday Fish Frys Maple Sugaring the registration form & bring it in or ter for Local & Global History for The Cleveland Maennerchor, Rocky River Reservation-Maple register on line at www.OBALL.org. more info. Free for beginners to 4515 State Rd., Fri., 5 - 9 pm. Grove Picnic Area, 11 am. - 4 pm. experts. Specials every Fri. Prime rib on Free. Call 440-734-6660 for more Sat., March 11th, 18th & 25th & April 1st& 8th 1st Fri. of the month. Open to info. Wednesday, March 15th OBYL Sign-Ups Buzzard Day the public but you must be a club Saturdays, March 4, 11, 18 & 25 St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, member to purchase alcohol. Call Hinckley Reservation Buzzard O.B.A.L.L. Sign-Ups Brooklyn Hts. United Church of Roost, corner of State Rd. & West 216- 741-7728 for more info. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Mill- Christ, 2005 W. Schaaf Rd. (cor- Drive. Watch begins at 7 am., er Hall cafeteria, 4464 Pearl Rd. 9 ner of Schaaf & Broadview Rds.) continuing until the first buzzard Family Open Studio - Art House am. - 12 pm. Tremont Location – 9 am. - 1 pm. For more info see ad is spotted & everyone cheers its Inc., 3119 Denison Ave. Third PLAV Post 30, 1041 Starkweather on page 5. Go to www.obyl.org for return. Sunday, March 19th is Sat. of every month 1-3 pm. Class Ave. across from Lincoln Park. not more info. Buzzard Spotting - 9 am. - noon. Fee: free (Unless otherwise noted. Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 24 Classified APPLIANCE REPAIR HALL RENTAL BUSINESS LANDSCAPING 216 - ORGANIZATIONS M etro 741-4334 Brooklyn Polish American Monthly meetings A ppliance Home - AMPOL Halls, 4737 Pearl Rd., Cleveland, OH. with informative R epair 216-661-5315 speakers, networking oppor- *Stones *Shrubs *Edging S ervice tunities, & special programs de- *Perennials *Free Estimates ACTIVE signed to market your business to *Light Tree Work MILITARY other Chamber members & their LESS *Mulch / Top Soil employees. COSTLY SENIOR *Low Voltage Lighting Call: 216-288-5484 or REPAIRS DISCOUNTS HANDYMAN [email protected] *Clean-ups Chimney – Steps – Tuck Cell: 216-402-2861 Pointing; Touch up painting, Business: 216-398-9868 BANKS staining. Timing is everything. PAINTING Senior discounts. HEDGEMAN TRIMMING Call Jim: 216-233-4645 MAKKOS PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES Interior and Exterior For All Your Trimming Needs Memphis-Fulton Office We provide the following services Ceiling & Drywall repairs Staining 4140 Fulton Road, Free estimates Ceiling texturing Faux fi nishes Cleveland, OH 44144. HOME Hedge trimming, Weeding, Phone: 216-749-6900 IMPROVEMENT Mulching, Light landscaping Fax: 216-459-8072 Quality work guaranteed Low cost Free estimates, Insured. ckovach860@dollarbank. For spring clean-up com. NMLS#580281 Call: Jeff Makkos Call Joe at 216-906-1963 RESTORATION 440-625-0718 RENOVATION REPAIR GUTTERS LANDSCAPING McNulty’s Landscaping SPECIALIZING IN: CHRIS – ISH’S LAWN CARE Offering: woodworking, cabinetry, Spring Clean-Up MONDE HOME Grass cutting, edging, weed trim- IMPROVEMENT tile, caulking, windows, Lawncare ming. Prices starting @ $20 Light Landscaping Seamless gutters / gutter painting, and much more We also off er seasonal clean-up, 216-804-1494 toppers. JOHN MAKRAI Senior & Veteran Call John, 216-906-1448. 216-536-7788 discounts. [email protected] Free Estimates Senior Discounts [email protected] Call: 440-667-5799 Disability Discounts News & Events Monday, March 20th Starts Friday, April 21st Saturday, April 29th Saturday, May 13th Big Creek Connects The Old Brooklyn Golf League Spring Style Show & Luncheon RiverSweep 2017 , 6 - Accepting sign up’s for 9 hole 21 St. Thomas More Gym, 4180 N. Big Creek/Lower Harvard: Meet 7:30 pm. Working to restore one & over Fri. Evening Mens League. Amber Dr., doors open 11 am. at Iron City Café, 4002 Jennings of the largest & most urbanized Seneca Golf Course, 975 Valley luncheon, 12 noon. Tickets: $10, Rd. 9 am - noon. Ohio’s largest tributary to the Cuyahoga Riv- Parkway Dr. Broadview Hts. Go must be purchased by April 24th, er. Learn how you can volunteer, available at the rectory. No ticket done-in-a-day cleanup effort. Vol- what you can do at home, & about to www.oldbrooklyngolfleague. sales at the door. Fashions by Dress unteers must sign a waiver before the 6.5 mile Big Creek greenway com for more info. Barn. Church phone #216-749- they participate, Children under plans. Light refreshments provid- 0414. the age of 16 must have the waiver ed. Call 216-780-9750 to register. Saturday, April 22nd signed by an adult. Go to http:// EarthFest 2017: celebrating the canalwaypartners.com to register Year of Vibrant Green Space, Saturday, May 6th or for more info. Saturday, April 1st Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds, Benjamin Franklin Community Easter Egg Hunt 10 am. - 5 pm. $8 ages 12& over, Garden Fundraiser Friday May 19th Sachsenhiem Hall, 7001 Deni- Estabrook Rec Center, 4125 Ful- $4 ages 2-11. Free admission: Block Party son Ave. 6 - 9 pm. Tickets $25: ton Rd. Sponsored by Gateway under age 2, ride & park bicycles, Estabrook Rec Center, 4125 Ful- Church Old Brooklyn. Registra- include an appetizer, buffet, beer, ride RTA’s Redline (regular fare) to wine, soft drinks & deserts. Door ton Rd. Sponsored by Gateway tion begins 12:30 pm., Egg hunt Brookpark Rapid Station & take prizes, Chinese raffle, side boards Church Old Brooklyn; 5 - 7pm. 1 pm. Children up to 5th grade. free shuttle to Fairgrounds, Visit & 50/50 raffle. For tickets call Free food, games & entertain- Rain or shine. earthdaycoalition.org or call 216- Greg at 216-789-2086 or at OB- ment. 281-6468 for more info. CDC office, 2339 Broadview Rd. Old Brooklyn.com 25 Community Meetings

Brooklyn Centre Naturalists thor Ralph Pfingsten. Program: Memphis Ave. Speaker: Refresh- Road United Methodist Church, - meetings - Call Gloria Ferris, Quarries in the area. “Spring ments. All welcome. 4200 Pearl Rd., parking off Mem- 216-351-0254, or email bcnat- Fling” quilt will also be raffled. phis Ave., use the blue door en- [email protected] for meeting Tickets any Tues. 10 am. - 2 pm. Old Brooklyn Crime Watch trance off the parking lot. Go to times and dates. All welcome. use side door. Call Barb 216-941- meetings, 7 pm. Wed., March website www.oldbrooklynhistory. 0160 for tickets or more info. All 8th, Pearl Road United, 4200 com for more information on the Brooklyn-Cleveland Kiwanis - welcome, bring a friend, refresh- Pearl Rd. Thurs., April 7th, St. evening,s speakers. meeting every Tues., noon - 1:30 ments to follow. James, 4771 Broadview Rd. & pm, Golden Corral, 8676 Brook- Mon. May 8th, Mary Queen of 2nd District Police Community park Rd. Cuyahoga Valley Genealogy Peace, 4423 Pearl Rd. Call Barb, Relations meetings- every second - Independence , 459-1000, times & locations or Tues., 7 pm, Applewood Center, Brooklyn Genealogy Club - for more info. 3518 W. 25th St. 2 pm on the third Sun of the Willow Rd., 6363 Selig Blvd. 7 pm. Mon., March 6th; Topic: month. Brooklyn Fire Station Old Brooklyn Families Group Southwest Citizens Area Coun- Community Rm. 8400 Memphis Care & Handling for Your Trea- meetings - Dina’s Pizza & Pub, cil meetings - every first Thurs., Ave., Contact BGC Secretary Sue sures at Home Mon., April 3rd; 5701 Memphis Ave. 6:30 - 8 pm. 7 pm, Gino’s, 1314 Denison Ave. Hill, 440-865-0402, for more Topic: Serendipity in Genealogy. Every 1st Tues., of the month. info. Mon., May 1st; Topic: Cemeter- Ward 12 Democratic Club meet- ings - every third Wed.; 7:30 pm. ies and Their Famous Residents. The Polish Genealogical Society Brooklyn Historical Society - Gino’s 1314 Denison Ave. meetings at the Museum, 4442 Call President Mary Boehnlein at of Greater Cleveland - St. Mary’s Ridge Rd. 7 pm, on Wed, April 440-736-7180 or cuyahogagene- Polish National Church Parish Western Reserve American Glass 26th. Speaker: William G. Krej- alogy.org for more dates & info. Hall, 5375 Broadview Rd. Meet- Club meetings - first Mon. of ci, an historian with the National ings are held on the first Tues. of the month.Crystal Chalet, 3600 the month during the months of Park Service at Perry’s Monument Laurel Garden Club - April, Biddulph Rd. 7 pm. Glass topic Mar., Apr. May, Jun., Sept., Oct., & International Peace Memorial buried beneath Cleveland (lost discussion, snacks, raffle, a library, Nov., & Dec. at Put-In-Bay. Stories & locations cemeteries) May, Ralph Pfing- glass ID table, items for sale & of over fifty displaced cemeteries more. Email wragclub@gmail. sten on the quarries in the area; The Historical Society of Old in the area.”Buried Under Cleve- 7 pm. Community Rm, rear com or call 440-799-1618 for Brooklyn meetings - Fri., Mar. land”. Wed, May 31st., local au- of Brooklyn Fire Station, 8400 more info. 10th & May 12th; 7 pm. Pearl

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All Major Credit Cards Accepted formerly B. McDermott Plumbing; Serving Old Brooklyn for 27 yrs. Old Brooklyn Community Development Corporation 26 tribution to our neighborhood through gre- laude -- from Ohio State University with a enway advocacy and watershed stewardship.” Bachelor of Science degree in Political Sci- The award included recognition from ence and Economics (a double major). While (Brian Cummins, in Columbus, Ben was inducted into Omi- Ward 14; Kevin Kelley, Ward 13; Kerry Mc- cron Delta Epsilon, the honorary economics Cormack, Ward 3; and Matt Zone, Ward society, at the end of his sophomore year, and 15). And the Ohio Senate sent a tribute into Pi Sigma Alpha, the honorary political via Senator Michael Skindell, 23rd District; science society, at the beginning of his senior and Senator Sandra Williams, 21st District. year. BCC Executive Director Bob Gardin; Ben, a graduate of Old Brooklyn Com- Board members Mary Ellen Stasek, Greg munity School (2008) and St. Edward High Cznadel and Ann Kuula; and members John School (2012), is now a Pricing Analyst at Rakauskas, Alan Forman and Adam Stalder Progressive Insurance’s headquarters in May- (also Metro West’s Managing Director) were field Village. To shorten his commute to present at the awards cemetery. work, Ben recently relocated to the Coventry In his thank you speech, Bob Gardin Village neighborhood of Cleveland Hts. Winter’s winding down, and what a cra- noted that BCC’s successes have depended Looking ahead to May, 2017, The Pedal zy, teeter-totter winter it’s been weather-wise! upon community support and participation. for Prizes folks -- Jeff Sugalski, Becky Der- It certainly could have been a lot worse than He urged involvement in efforts to promote wis, Jackie Sliva, Bruce Page/Honey Hut it was, but nonetheless, I hope that spring the the 6 1/2 mile greenway connecting and John Young/Speed Exterminating, five will arrive on time this month, and that its the Towpath Trail to Big Creek Parkway as business owners and/or residents who ‘care course will be ‘straight on’ to summer! an outstanding opportunity to improve the The timing of the publication date for quality of life in our neighborhoods. about Old Brooklyn’ – have been telling peo- this quarterly edition pretty much coincides Before it’s time to talk about 2017 col- ple that after a one-year break, their event is with Ash Wednesday (March 1st this year) lege graduates from our neighborhood, I again on the neighborhood calendar. It will and that reminded me about something in should note that – take place on Saturday, May 20th, starting at the neighborhood which I covered in this Last May Old Brooklyn resident Col- Estabrook Recreation Center, 4125 Fulton column last Lent – the icon painting classes in Page graduated from Miami University Rd., at 11:30 a.m. Fr. Marek Visnovsky St. which , pastor of (MU) in Oxford, Ohio with a Bachelor of I’ve been noticing some interesting con- Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, 4600 Business degree in Accounting. In addition struction on Broadview Rd., one on the site State Rd., offered at his parish. Last year Fr. to ‘helping with the books’ at Honey Hut of the former Wischmeier Funeral Home Marek ran out of space before he ran out of (the family business) for the past four years, people wanting to learn how to paint icons, Colin is now employed as a Staff Accountant, and the other at the corner of Portman Ave. so this year he’s offering it again. Audit at Maloney + Novotny LLC, a business The first one, I believe, is somehow related to The six sessions are taking place in the adviser and certified public accountants firm MetroHealth, and the second one is a major basement level of St. Mary Byzantine Cath- in . project repurposing a former corner grocery olic School from 7 to 10 p.m. on the Thurs- Colin began his education at St. Thom- store (Broadview Food Market) into an days of Lent (finishing the week before Holy as More Elementary School (class of 2008) upscale coffee shop and nut-free bakery. I Thursday). As in the past, the fee -- which and then continued his studies at St. Ignati- hope to be able to write about each of them is $250.00 this year -- includes both the in- us High School (class of 2012). One of the in greater detail in our next issue in June. struction and the materials, as well as spiri- most notable experiences of his college years In the meantime, if you have news tual talks about the theology of icons and the was in January, 2015 when he went to Cuen- symbolism in the paintings. ca, Ecuador with MU’s Social Entrepreneur which would be appropriate for this column, Last year’s students painted images of Corps. please email it to Lynette Filips at lynettef@ Mandylion, aka, Not Made by Human Hands; Also last May, Brooklyn Centre resident oldbrooklyn.com. this year’s icon is called Extreme Humility. It Ben Schumann graduated -- magna cum is an above-the-shoulders representation of Christ in the tomb. Most of last year’s students were from religious denominations other than Byzan- tine Catholic, including Roman Catholic, Orthodox and Episcopalian. If you would like to be one of them this year, find out if there’s still room in the current class by call- ing the church at 216-741-7979. Metro West Community Develop- ment Organization (serving the Stockyard, Clark-Fulton and Brooklyn Centre neigh- borhoods) held its annual celebration at Constellation Schools Stockyard Elementary School on Thursday, January 26th. Among the Neighborhood Awards which area coun- Photo by Kristyn Zollos cilmen presented was a Green Thumb Award When Big Creek Connects (BCC) was presented the Green Thumbs Award, (left - right) Ward to Big Creek Connects/BCC. Ward 12 12 Councilman Tony Brancatelli, BCC Board members Greg Cznadel & Ann Kuula, Metro West Councilman Tony Brancatelli chose them Community Development Managing Director Adam Stalder, BCC Board Chair Mary Ellen for the award based on their “outstanding con- Stasek and BCC Executive Director Bob Gardin were on hand to accept it.

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