Volume 4 - Issue 1 Spring 2012 FREE

COVERING ’S ARTISAN NEIGHBORHOOD City Argus OHIO CITY PARENTS UNCOVER KID-FRIENDLY SECRETS OF CITY LIVING, BUILD COMMUNITY

Families gather for Fairview Park programming last summer by LEE CHILCOTE “There were pockets that were a lit- Humboldt Park Economic Development the chance to grow up in a diverse, urban tle dangerous, but elements that were Corporation. In 2004, she interviewed environment. “The was orma Polanco-Boyd grew up in really cool,” says Polanco-Boyd, whose for a position with the Community really the clincher for me. I wanted to be Chicago’s Humboldt Park neigh- Mexican-born parents immigrated to Affairs Division of the U.S. Office of the able to walk to amenities.” Nborhood in the 70s and 80s. It the U.S. before having kids. “My parents Comptroller of the Currency. She con- Although making friends in Cleve- was a gritty, blue-collar neighborhood in were lower middle-class, and Humboldt vinced her husband Joe, whom she was land wasn’t easy at first – Polanco-Boyd the grips of a recession then, densely built Park was affordable and close to their dating at the time, to come out to Cleve- laughs as she recalls taking long walks with brick bungalows and walk-up apart- jobs. Growing up, I thought you had to land for a look. with her dog and introducing herself to ment flats that housed every ethnic group be rich to live in the suburbs.” “While we were visiting, we discov- bartenders just to meet people – she and under the sun. It was a great place to grow After graduating from college, ered Ohio City,” recalls Polanco-Boyd, Joe soon found themselves living among up, she says, and she has many vivid Polanco-Boyd entered the Peace Corps whose passion for redeveloping urban good friends and neighbors in “the OC.” memories of walking to the library or cor- and moved back to Humboldt Park, neighborhoods brims over when she talks. ner store and playing in the local park. where she landed a job as Director of the She’s always wanted to give her own kids (continued on page 8) Cleveland to Celebrate West Side Market’s Centennial

by NANCY LESIC Centennial Celebration. The Centennial events – which focus on community build- ouncilman Joe Cimperman’s ing, culinary fetes and education – feature voice echoed through the West a public street festival, a high profile Gala CSide Market. featuring local and national chefs and regu- “Let’s get this party started!” He enthu- lar programming that celebrates the sur- siastically bellowed during the launch of rounding neighborhood and ethnic tradi- the Market’s Centennial Celebration — a tions of Cleveland’s public market. More than 100 supporters enthusias- yearlong series of events that will honor tically filled the southeast corner of the the past 100 years of Cleveland’s grande Market and squeezed tightly through the dame, and celebrate the limitless future concourses around Campbell’s Popcorn of this unique Cleveland icon. for the announcement. Many seemed most The always-engaging councilman notably delighted by these news tidbits: joined with Mayor Frank Jackson and On Sunday, October 7th, the Market other dignitaries, vendors, shoppers and will be open on a Sunday for the first time Ohio City residents on February 6th to Mayor Frank G. Jackson at the Centennial Celebration Announcement reveal the long-anticipated details of the (continued on page 2)

IN THIS 4 The OC is the 7 Ohio City Dialogue: 9 Market Avenue Occupy Weekend in ISSUE Place to Be Non-Profits Unite Wine Bar 11 Ohio City 12 Ohio City

Find Ohio City Incorporated on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ohiocitytweets 2 Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org

(continued from page 1) community collaboration was critical to planning a celebration of this magnitude. in a decade; and The Great Lakes Brewing “We are excited for the community Company will be handcrafting an official to partake in these activities designed to Centennial Brew for the celebration. pay homage to the Market’s storied past Many in the crowd tweeted live updates as well as its current position at the fore- about the 100th birthday bash. Social media front of Cleveland’s emerging local food platforms are helping to tell the story of the economy,” she said. OHC and the West Side Market, and inten- Other faces in the crowd included OHC sifying and growing their loyal and devoted chief Eric Wobser and his team, Council following. The official Centennial hashtag, President Marty Sweeney, Councilman Matt which will be used year-round – #wsm100 – Zone, Pat Conway from the Great Lakes became a trending topic (or a “frequently Brewing Company, Mike and Pete Mitch- discussed” topic) in the ell from Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream, days after the announcement. West Side Market Manager Christine Speakers at the press conference, Zuniga Eadie, OHC resident and former which received extensive coverage by the Congresswoman Mary Rose Oakar and Plain Dealer and many local news stations, Charter One president Ken Marblestone. included national chef celebrity and Cleve- Charter One received special thanks lander Jonathon Sawyer, and our local from many at the event for becoming the OHC celebrities Diane Dever and Melissa presenting sponsor of the Centennial DeCaro – Market vendors – who reflected Celebration. Charter One has invested on the personal connection that they and more than a half a million dollars to the their families share with the institution. OC Market District over the past two Amanda Dempsey, Market District years to assist with development in Director, said a strong civic, corporate and the district.

Centennial events include: Sat., June 2 | Official Public Kick Off event at Market Square Park with ethnic delights, a neighborhood fireworks display and a Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream social. Sept., 21-23 | 8th International Public Markets Conference: Neighborhood celebration on Friday, September 21st in Market Square Park. Sat., Oct. 7 | Street Festival and Parade produced by Live Nation with costumes designed by the ’s Parade the Circle; expected to attract 30,000 attendees and fill West 25th Street with live entertainment, food delicacies and artisan vendors. Market to be open on Sunday! Sat., Nov. 3 | Centennial Gala co-chaired by Iron Chef Michael Symon and Food & Wine’s Next Best Chef Jonathon Sawyer that will feature national and local chef talent as well as debut a Centennial Brew from Great Lakes Brewing Company.

For more information, please go to www.westsidemarket.org/centennnial

OhioEditorial Team – LEE CHILCOTECity & VIRGINIA Argus HOUSTON New look designed by – ASHLEY CASEY | ashleycasey.com

Published by – OHIO CITY INCORPORATED 2525 Market Avenue, Suite A Cleveland, OH 44113 216.781.3222 (phone)

Our deepest thanks to longtime editors Bernie Thiel and Mireille Sjoblom-Kious for founding the Argus and spending tireless hours to ensure its’ success. As we go froward we look to stay true to the Argus’ roots while making small adjustments, including the “new look” of the Argus debuting in this edition.

Interested in Advertising? Email [email protected] for ad rates and editorial schedule.

Join us for the

Ohio City Incorporated Annual Meeting and learn about what we are up to! Wednesday, April 18, 2012 - 5:30pm at the Saint Ignatius Breen Center $10 suggested donation to cover food costs cash bar We hope to see you there! Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org 3

For more information on Ohio City Inc. and its LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR programs, please contact:

Ohio City Incorporated 2525 Market Avenue, Suite A ing a beautiful space for the community diversity in the neighborhood through Cleveland, Ohio 44113 All Together Now to gather in the heart of the Market passing a resolution supporting quality 216.781.3222 District. Wayfinding signage will also housing options for all income levels. www.ohiocity.org 2012 is a historic year in Ohio City. One of be installed in May and will help visi- As Ohio City marches toward great- the region’s major cultural institutions, tors to navigate the neighborhood. Sev- ness, it is clear that the end game is not the West Side Market, will celebrate eral storefront renovations and new simply creating a tourism destination or its Centennial in 2012. Ohio City Incor- business signs are either completed a haven for young professionals. Instead, porated is partnering with the City of or about to begin, and were made pos- we have come together to build on the Cleveland, Councilman Joe Cimperman, sible through generous neighborhood assets of the Market District and beyond the West Side Market Vendors and other improvement grants from Lutheran to become a complete neighborhood OHIO CITY INC neighborhood stakeholders to celebrate Hospital and Saint Ignatius High for families that celebrates all types of this grand occasion and to position the School. These improvements have diversity. 2012 is sure to be remembered Mission Statement Market for success over the next 100 helped to attract over 30 new busi- as a significant year in this continued To develop, preserve, and promote years. Charter One will serve as the pre- nesses to the neighborhood, including journey, come celebrate it with us at our our diverse, historic, urban com- senting sponsor of the Market Centen- the corporate headquarters of Mitch- annual meeting, taking place April 18th munity as a desirable place to live, nial, bringing its total support of neigh- ell’s Homemade Ice Cream and Cleve- at the Saint Ignatius Breen Center for work, study, play and worship by: borhood activities to over $500,000 over land’s first hostel, both of which will Performing Arts at 5 pm. For more infor- a three year-period. This support has open in time for the Market Centennial mation go to www.ohiocity.org. • Facilitating the creation of been critical in our efforts to attract new later this year. vehicles for community problem businesses, build a local food economy These accomplishments, none of solving and informed neighbor- and to throw a party befitting one of our which would have been possible with- hood input into residential, most significant community treasures. out a massive collection of partners, commercial, and institutional The impending deadline of the Mar- have helped place a regional spotlight development planning; ket Centennial provided the neigh- on Ohio City in 2012. While much of this • De veloping or assisting the borhood with a hard deadline to work attention has been based on the emer- development of quality new backwards from in order to accomplish gence of a thriving Market District at and rehabilitated homes for some longstanding goals and to reim- West 25th and Lorain, two additional all income levels; agine what was possible for our com- 2012 milestones are equally important in munity. A special improvement district, Ohio City’s continued evolution into one • De veloping or assisting the the third in the history of the City of of the world’s great neighborhoods. development of quality retail, Cleveland, was passed by neighbor- The first class of the Near West Inter- office, institutional and hood property owners and will kick generational School will finish later this industrial properties; off in April. Ohio City Incorporated is year, a testament to the determination of • Preser ving the historic partnering with the Downtown Cleve- Ohio City families to bring an innovative character of the neighborhood. land Alliance to bring safety and clean- public charter school to the neighbor- ing ambassadors to the Market District. hood. In addition, the Ohio City Incor- A completely renovated Market porated Board of Trustees affirmed ERIC WOBSER Square Park will open in May, provid- its commitment to ensuring economic Executive Director 4 Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org OHC is the Place to Be

by CATHERINE PODOJIL Cajon/Creole and Low Country cuisines of the Negro Modelo beer battered avocado New Orleans and South Carolina, putting tacos, with is slowly becoming one of our Find these businesses ew businesses are sprouting in our own stamp on them in subtle ways. signature dishes. And all of our salsas on the web Ohio City like spring crocuses, The reception so far has been fantastic.” are vegan. We offer salsas with no pepper liams you’re likely to wait a bit while he and in this economy other com- Konkoski credits Ohio City, Inc. with at all to salsas that can make your eyes N Bonbon Cleveland munities might well be asking why. It’s making the neighborhood business- water.” But to Rodriguez salsas are not bonboncleveland.com simple, according to Sam McNulty, one friendly. “They cared about my concept, all about the heat. “We put a lot of focus of the neighborhood anchors: “It’s a they didn’t care that they didn’t know on the flavor as well.” Rodriguez makes Market Garden Brewery us.” He says OCI makes it possible to one from mango and habanero peppers, dense, walkable, urban neighborhood, marketgardenbrewery.com with historic architecture, a strong crea- negotiate the thicket of city regulations another from pineapple, mint, jalapeno, tive class, great night life, the West Side and permits which often make busi- and cocoanut. No matter what Orale Orale! Market, and a fun and frugal place to nesses looking elsewhere just give up. patrons eat, Rodriguez wants them to oralecmc.com shop.” He could go on, but other entre- Roberto Rodriguez’s Orale Kitchen leave saying “Wow! That was amazing!” preneurs – three restaurants, a café, Restaurant (1979 W. 25th; 216-781-4190) For dessert, Ohio City diners might SOHO a vintage emporium, and a beer/wine opened last August, an addition to the pre- make their way to Bon Bon Pastry and sohocleveland.com house with food - have their own take on pared food stand Rodriguez has run at the Café (2549 Lorain; 216-458-9225). Propri- the neighborhood’s appeal, and some of West Side Market for many years. A chef etor and pastry chef Courtney Bonning Bogtrotters Doorstep them have opened up their businesses for over two decades, some in his native opened her site late last year after oper- Deering Vintage not just in the past year, but in the past Cancun, he moved here in 1987. Looking ating a wholesale bakery in the Detroit few months. All are thriving. for a restaurant site, he was first attracted Shoreway neighborhood. “My passion Nolan Konkoski and his partner to the potential space by “high tiled ceil- is to bring handmade pastries and deli- Molly Smith opened SOHO Kitchen ings, an exposed brick wall,” and then by cious simple foods to Cleveland. I chose and Bar (1889 W. 25th; 216-298-9090) the fact that “Ohio City had changed so Ohio City because of its culture and in November of last year. The name? It much and businesses were quickly com- beauty.” Her goal was to have a Euro- serves a customer), but you can take your stands for Southern Hospitality, of course. ing back. Ohio City is rapidly becoming pean style café, where you walk in right sandwich over to Old Angle Tavern to eat Konkoski says that as he and Molly (nei- the new place to be in Cleveland.” off the street, sit down and eat. “It’s not it with their wares. Williams says other ther of them from the south) traveled and Orale doesn’t serve the Mexican food as formal as a typical restaurant envi- restaurants are scheduled to open soon ate, they kicked around ideas for a res- that most Americans are used to. “The ronment. My store is all windows, so it’s in the neighborhood. When asked if this taurant of their own. “We felt [southern only ground meat we use is the chorizo as if you’re right on the street.” worries those already there, he responds, cooking] was something that was lack- we make in our kitchen. We make our Bon Bon café offers entrees, baked “No! Competition brings business. Many ing, something that Clevelanders would sausage from chicken and lamb.” For non goods and beverages, as well as a site of us who work here also live here and meat eaters, “We cater a lot to our vegan for hosting private events and offsite embrace, and something that we felt pas- we’re here for the long haul. We’re not and vegetarian patrons. Every Tuesday catering. Bon Bon competed in the sionate about. We focus heavily on the just in business to live off the commu- is Vegan Day. Our vegan entrees include Food Network’s Cupcake Wars and nity.” In other words, bring ‘em on! won – leading to an event serving their wares at Dodger Stadium. “We’re par- ______ticularly well known for our handmade croissants and wedding cakes, says Bon- ning. “I hope people feel a sense of com- “Ohio City had changed fort and community at Bon Bon.” so much and busi- The non food-and-drink focus in this group is Deering Vintage (1836 W. 25th; nesses were quickly 216-274-1211). There doesn’t seem to be a Cleveland community that proprietor coming back. Ohio City Cynthia Deering hasn’t been a part of – stores in La Place and Beachwood Place, is rapidly becoming west on Lorain, Tremont, and since last October, Ohio City. Her shop focuses on the new place to be vintage clothing and accessories (syno- in Cleveland.” nym – tchotchkes) for women, with a small men’s department. ______Nolan Konkoski and Molly Smith, owners of SOHO Kitchen and Bar “Everything is hand-picked by me. I like the idea of treasure hunting. But I Speaking of mottos, Sam McNulty don’t scuba dive because I don’t like to has two: “Eat local, drink local,” and get my hair wet, so my business is my “We drink all we can. The rest we sell.” own private treasure hunt. Every day McNulty is the owner of Market Garden I find something new.” What’s selling? Brewery (1939 W. 25th; 216-650-3583), “Right now it’s winter coats, made in right across the street from Bier Markt, the ‘70s and before, the really well-made owned by – well, Sam McNulty. He also ones that today would cost $1000, they’re runs Bar Cento and Speakeasy, making going for $75 to $150. Later on we’ll sell an Ohio City foursome. Market Garden skimmers and sheaths, the form-fitting opened in June of last year. McNulty dresses, as well as shirtwaists.” says, “I loved the neighborhood and “I chose Ohio City because it wanted to live, work, and play here.” He reminded me of the ultra cool neighbor- moved to the neighborhood seven years hoods in Chicago. I’m in love with the ago, across from Bier Markt. OC, as we call it. And I share space with Market Garden sells unfiltered beer Senjiva Studio, which does alterations, so (filtering kills the proteins and some of it’s really convenient.” So, bring in your the taste) and sessionable brews (lower vintage stuff to show Cynthia, but call alcohol content for a longer drinking Courtney Bonning, owner of BonBon Pastry & Cafe first to be sure she’s not out at the bank. session). “We have a 120-seat four-sea- As a non-driver, biker Nate Williams son beer garden and a wood burning of Bogtrotter’s Doorstep (1848 W. 25th; fireplace, and our award-wining chef 861-5515) appreciates the Ohio City com- Michael Nowak creates a locally sourced munity as somewhere “with places easy modern American pub fare menu. The to walk to and good for young families.” brewery plans to distill its own spirits His motto – “Damn good handcrafted soon – “a white whiskey, and a honey- sandwiches” – refers to the sandwiches infused and a hops-infused whiskey.” he makes from scratch – with meat, lots Passion and hard work, backed by of it, roasted in house and au jus (though a supportive community, spur these six he will make vegetarian sandwiches entrepreneurs. Says Courtney Bonning for patrons who want them). The word of Bon Bon Café, “We can’t wait to spend doorstep refers to a huge sandwich that the day with you.” you can use to prop the door open. A bogtrotter is an Irish rogue, similar to the Aussie larrikin. Bogtrotter’s, open since last Novem- ber, is basically a carry-out, with only Nate Williams, owner of Bogtrotter’s Doorstep two bar stools (in fact, if you call Wil- Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org 5 Ohio City Launches Lorain by JOE CIMPERMAN, the street from an underperforming and in sections ing more on street parking, and animating the street Cleveland City Councilman Ward 3 blighted avenue to a maintained, beautiful, mixed- through business development will help accomplish Find these businesses MATT ZONE, use, and multi-model street that brings residents from that. So will an investment by the Greater Cleve- on the web Cleveland City Councilman Ward 15 Clinton and Chatham together. Our vision is for that land Regional Transit Authority. Lorain Avenue cuts energy and investment to stretch from the new bicycle through a half-dozen City Council wards, a host of hio City, like its neighbors Detroit Shoreway, and pedestrian path over the , major institutional anchors, an impressive array of Tremont and , has had past the West Side Market and through Saint Ignatius’ businesses, and possibly the largest concentration of Ounprecedented growth in the last two years. campus, into the historic buildings filling in the street, City of Cleveland residents within a ten minute walk While the growth has centered around the Market along Urban Community School, and ending up in of a commercial main street. An improved experience District, there is both a need and a desire to “turn Detroit-Shoreway at the EcoVillage and the Michael J. with better rapid transit connections, a bus rapid tran- the corner” onto Lorain Avenue for investment and Zone Recreation Center. sit system, and transit waiting environment invest- growth. This past fall, we partnered with Ohio City Creating walkable neighborhoods with amenities ments would have an impact not just on Ohio City, but Incorporated to lead a community engagement process and services that meet the needs of neighborhood resi- the entire Lorain Avenue corridor. designed to accomplish that goal by focusing our atten- dents is an absolute priority for both of our wards. This “Launch Lorain” was a first step towards estab- tion on Lorain Avenue as Ohio City’s Main Street. can be achieved through many different ways including lishing a clear and compelling vision, developed in Perhaps Father Bill Murphy from Saint Ignatius business attraction and the City of Cleveland Storefront partnership with the residents, businesses, institu- High School said it best when he stated, “The goal of Renovation Program, in addition to improved condi- tions, and stakeholders of Ohio City. This spring, we this process is to turn Lorian Avenue from a latently tions of sidewalks and streets through a coordinated look forward to working with Ohio City Incorporated charming street to blatantly charming street.” During streetscaping effort. Additionally, with the recent pub- on the release of the drafted “Launch Lorain” report the course of the three-day planning charrette made lic investment in Market Square Park, Novak Park, and gathering feedback from all stakeholders before possible with funding from NPI and facilitated by the Zone Recreation Center and the planned improvements the plan is finalized. Strong community participation Kent State Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative, hun- for Greenwood Park, Lorain Avenue can be the green- is one of the great strengths of Ohio City. We wel- dreds of residents and stakeholders attended “Launch way connector for family programming, healthy living, come all voices and opinions and look forward to that Lorain” and shared their vision for a complete street and recreational activities. continued dialogue. cared for by all who call Ohio City home. Lorain Avenue was intended to be enjoyed by peo- Both of us share representation of Lorain Ave- ple, not automobiles. Slowing traffic, creating safer nue, thus we are equally committed to transforming pedestrian crossings at key intersections, allow- Ohio City Writers to Serve Young Scribes at Lorain Avenue Center by FRANK W. LEWIS Sixteen months later I write this in the storefront space I’m renting in ast year I led an after-school crea- the Miller Building, at West 32nd and tive writing club for fourth- and Lorain. Since signing the lease late last Lfifth-graders at my son’s school. year, I’ve been painting, acquiring furni- On the first day everyone introduced ture, raising money and otherwise pre- themselves – name, grade, what kinds of paring to open the doors to young aspir- books you like, etc. Everything was going ing writers from across . fine until we got to Mary Jane, who stood ______up and declared: “My name is Cheez-It. I was born on Mars, and I moved here from California yesterday.” “…writing is an over- For about two seconds, no one reacted. Then hands shot up all around the room looked key to trans- as the other kids begged to change their answers. To restore order I had to prom- forming learning in ise that the following week we’d set aside the United States.” time to choose nicknames for everyone. I wondered what I’d gotten myself into. ______But to my great relief the kids came back, Frank Lewis in Ohio City Writer’s space at 3208 Lorain Avenue week after week, and dove with increas- Ohio City Writers’ mission is to organ- ize programs and volunteers to help kids ing confidence into each new project. We will benefit from the guidance of accom- Yoga Gallery, Happy Dog, Great Lakes and teens hone their skills with the writ- deconstructed some well-known super- plished and passionate writers, from Brewing, Prosperity Social Club and ten word and, by extension, their critical- hero origin stories, then created our own. every genre and discipline, from across Market Garden Brewery have all hosted thinking and problem-solving abilities. As We listened to awesome songs about triv- Northeast Ohio. And whenever possi- fundraising events, and Palookaville The College Board’s National Commission ial topics, like Run-DMC’s “My Addidas,” ble we’ll help students turn their written Chili is planning one. Sam Cahill of Sec- on Writing asserted in 2003, “Whether and penned our own lyrics– some of which words into publications, blogs, podcasts, ond Shift Design Studio is building tables on paper or on screen, writing is an over- weren’t trivial at all but deeply heartfelt. songs and performances, through collabo- for us. An Ohio City babysitting co-op looked key to transforming learning in We wrote short plays, which resulted in rations with local publishers, artists, ven- donated a load of notebooks, pens and the United States.” That’s because writing some chaotic, half-improvised perform- ues and anyone else who wants to support pencils. St. Ignatius High School has is about far more than telling stories. It’s ances, which drove home the importance the cause. agreed to encourage its students to vol- the social studies of one’s own life. It’s the of working through your story on paper. In fact what you’re reading now is the unteer to work with younger kids. And science of personal expression. It’s algebra At least I hope it did. introduction of one such collaboration. every week I hear from new folks who with words. Writing exercises all the men- At any rate, we had fun, and the expe- Ohio City Writers’ role in the reboot of want to get involved. tal muscle groups and sharpens vision. As rience affirmed my then-tentative plan The Argus will be getting kids involved In 2010, when I was still pondering Flannery O’Connor once put it, “I write to leave journalism behind for good and as contributors. What better way to con- whether to pursue this project, I read because I don’t know what I think until I open a non-profit creative writing center nect with your neighborhood than to Children of God, the magnificent sci-fi read what I say.” for Cleveland kids. write about it? novel by Cleveland-area writer Mary Of course there are literacy programs If an idea becomes a reality the When I set out to build a network of Doria Russell. Near the end I came across in Cleveland, and organizations that first time someone calls a meeting to supporters for OCW, I started with peo- this line: “It will be well, he told himself, discuss it, then Ohio City Writers was engage kids in writing as some large or ple I’d worked with and met during my and let the universe take care of itself born on October 20, 2010. That’s the small portion of their missions. I’ve met years as editor of Cleveland Free Times while he took care of one apt and eager day I met with Eric Wobser and others with folks at many of them. My goal is and Scene. Those small circles widened student.” This single, beautiful sentence from Ohio City Inc. to pitch my plan. not to replace any of them or duplicate quickly, and I am continually amazed and nudged me closer to committing and still As it turned out, Eric was familiar efforts, but to expand on what’s available inspired by the way the Near West com- serves as a guiding principle. Is it pos- with the San Francisco-based model in Greater Cleveland. What will make munity in particular has rallied around sible to change the world one child at a I am emulating and had long believed Ohio City Writers different is our ability the project. Ohio City Inc. and Detroit time? I don’t know, but I can’t think of a it would be a perfect fit for Ohio City. to organize workshops in every conceiv- Shoreway made the previously vacant better way to try. Eric then brought in Cleveland Public able type of writing, from the sublime to storefront space available at start-up- Art and Councilman Joe Cimperman, the ridiculous, and led by people with friendly terms; I’d be nowhere, literally To learn more, visit and a plan came together. real-world experience. Our students and figuratively, without them. Open ohiocitywriters.org 6 Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org

OHIO CITY INC. NEWS Charter One Funds SOLO Projects by ALEXANDRA DEBIASE work, her front gate was never repaired or replaced. With help from the Charter hanks to critical funding from One funds, Pat was able to have a new Charter One Bank, Ohio City gate professionally installed. Tresidents that live south of “Now my home looks nicer than Lorain Avenue have seen sorely needed it ever was before,” Pat said. “I am so improvements to their neighborhood in proud of the staff at Ohio City Incor- recent months. These include the repair porated and how they’ve helped me in and beautification of ten homes, expan- every way possible.” sion of the ever–popular Ohio City “Pie Grant funds were also used to trans- Slice” street signs, and rejuvenation of form the longstanding Chatham Com- two bountiful community gardens. munity Garden into a vibrant commu- There is no question as to why these nity gathering space. Saint Ignatius new cleanup and beautification efforts High School teacher and Garden Coor- have been focused in the South of Lorain dinator Terry McCafferty is excited to neighborhood initially with the hopes see the space evolve with the addition of of expanding neighborhood-wide. The two benches and a picnic table, as well affordable historic housing stock as well as the installation of a hummingbird and as the proximity to the Market District, butterfly garden filled with native plants RTA and other amenities make SoLo that will attract useful pollinators for the a desirable neighborhood on the rise. surrounding vegetables. Recent news that the Monroe Cemetery “Our old benches were rotting and is receiving funds for a major renovation filled with carpenter ants,” Terry said. only adds to this excitement. “The new benches and table will be Ohio City street signs were installed throughout the neighborhood in late 2011 According to Pat Rybka, a resident placed on a new patio, made out of bricks of Chatham Avenue for over 30 years, from the old Dunbar school. It will be a hood cleanup and beautification projects for all of Ohio City, helping to bridge the needed improvements have not only great place for community gatherings such as these will become standard pro- the perceived gap between “NoLo” and made a difference in her own property, and cookouts.” gramming. Residents South of Lorain “SoLo.” More information about Ohio but improved the surrounding neigh- Through the launch of the Ohio City can celebrate the success of these City Shines including a late-March kick- borhood as well. After receiving utility Shines program this spring, neighbor- projects while serving as an example off meeting will be released soon. Ohio City’s Warm February Night: Observations on Brite Winter Fest by RYAN DEBIASE The temperatures dipped below the in the Free World” reverberated halfway freezing mark, but luckily folks could to Monroe Ave. and then back again. ortheast Ohio has been granted duck into myriad establishments along This year’s event signified somewhat somewhat of a reprieve from W. 25 to thaw. For a place like Johnnyville of a departure from the relative seclu- Nfrigid temps and blustery snow Slugger, maybe it was their first time or sion of Hart Crane Memorial Park in the showers this season, but that did not maybe they had been there before, but Flats, the venue for previous Brite Win- stop the organizers of Brite Winter Fest everything felt new and fresh. ter events. While Brite Winters I and II from celebrating the region’s least cel- The Winter Fest afforded Ohio City felt more spontaneous (and to a certain ebrated season. Residents and visitors of a jovial, crisp atmosphere. As light and extent, more subversive), the 2012 itera- Ohio City collected around bonfires near sound danced gracefully in the biting tion was a burlier beast, better equipped Market Square, drawing together in the cold, attendees huddled together or kept for large crowds searching out all that spirit of community but also for warmth, strolling to keep warm. The exposition the Near West Side has to offer. to listen to local bands and down their of aural pleasure reached a steaming cre- In addition to the outdoor stage on fair share of hot chocolate or libations scendo near the ten o’clock hour, as an Bridge Ave. and W. 26 St., eight local ven- from hip, Brite Fest mugs. energetic cover of Neil Young’s “Rockin’ ues opened their doors for musical acts: Joy Machines Bike Shop, Bon Bon Pastry & Cafe, Garage Bar, Touch Supper Club, Great Lakes Brewing Company, Market Avenue Wine Bar, Dragonfly Lounge, and Franklin Circle Christian Church. Interactive art and games augmented the landscape, as patrons took out their aggressions on an Angry Birds/Skee Ball hybrid game, or channelled their on the schedule, and stopping in ABC inner Moonwalk on a discotech dance- the Tavern during the interim. Acquaint- floor made of ice blocks. ances would inevitably collide, hands Adding to an already raucous Ohio would be shaken, ideas exchanged, City Saturday night, Brite Winter Fest meetups planned in the extremely near collected friends and dispersed them future. The festival was on. throughout the neighborhood. It was In the end, the crowds dissipated and an ongoing waltz from place to place, a returned to homes near and far. Some happy, roving wintertime street party walked home, others drove home and condensed within a few short blocks. still others prepared to board planes Perhaps it was the volunteer-driven the next morning. Fires were snuffed. nature of the event, the DIY fundrais- Stages disassembled and trucked away. ing from Kickstarter, that resulted in so Ice dancefloors left to melt into the earth. many having a vested interest in Brite Having drifted out high above the Winter. As a totally free event, one could waters of , the ghost of Brite pass through with no strings attached. Winter III – the woodsmoke and laughs The reveller enjoyed the luxury of total and cocoa vapor and indie music – freedom, being able to choose his or her slowly faded away, a warm memory alive own path for the evening, tracking bands in Ohio City’s warm February night. Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org 7 Ohio City Dialogue: Non-Profits Unite by Annette Iwamoto engaged two local companies for the City housing opportunities to our non- most in-demand products and serv- profit employees. What is the hio City has an enormous ices requested by Ohio City nonprofits. Anita Cook, Executive Director at asset in its 100 nonprofit and Sourcing Office, a local company that West Side Catholic Center, has recently Ohio City Dialogue? Ocommunity organizations, helps governments, businesses, and become the leader of the Community with missions ranging from educa- nonprofits obtain competitive rates for Awareness Workgroup. Last spring, A collaborative effort includ- tion and social service to healthcare goods and services, is now coordinat- this group facilitated a successful ing more than 100 community and the arts. Combined, they employ ing group purchasing of office sup- Ohio City Dialogue Service Day that organizations in Ohio City 3,000 individuals and have a collec- plies, electricity, janitorial and sani- involved over 500 volunteers in five that will: tive budget totalling several hundred tation supplies for enrolled Ohio City different services sites in our com- • Leverage resources to help million dollars. It is through the Ohio nonprofit organizations. OneLink, munity. Anita will lead this group in these organizations become City Dialogue, which includes all of a local technology company with a developing goals for the upcoming more efficient and impactful. our community organizations, that we nonprofit focus, has been selected to year that address shared concerns and can create a healthier, more vibrant, offer nonprofits in Ohio City quality will help build the sense of community • Maximize the community and sustainable community through information technology services and in Ohio City. impact and community agglomeration and collaboration. The products at affordable group pur- Additionally, the Ohio City Dia- benefit of the work these goal is to maximize the impact, effi- chasing rates. logue Steering Committee has organ- organizations perform. “We are thrilled with the quality ized efforts to bring together the ciency, and innovations of the services • Communicate the mission and and commitment of the vendors that human service providers in the neigh- provided, build a stronger commu- work of these organizations to we were able to engage to support Ohio borhood. While often addressing simi- nity, and increase understanding and the community and visitors. acceptance of the nonprofit sector both City’s nonprofits,” said Natalie Leek- lar concerns, these agencies were not internally and externally. Nelson, “and we are confident that always familiar with the services their This initiative was first the vision many more of our nonprofit neighbors neighbors provide. Initially a group of Councilman Joe Cimperman, but will join us and benefit from the current of eight organizations facilitated by has now become an initiative of Ohio and future group purchasing opportu- Cleveland Neighborhood Development City Inc. Over the past few years, a nities we have planned as word spreads Coalition came together to share best will also be updates from the resource steering committee made up of several about the tremendous value and con- practices and address common con- leveraging, housing, and community leaders in the community has helped venience that participants are seeing.” cerns. They have decided to continue awareness workgroups as well as a to develop and shape this initiative. Reverend Allen Harris at Frank- meeting on a monthly basis and invite presentation from our newly formed The nonprofit community in Ohio City lin Circle Christian Church leads the other human service agencies in Ohio human services dialogue group. The has identified several opportunities Housing Workgroup. This past year, the City to join them. These organizations Ohio City Dialogue has gained a lot for collaboration, including resource group collaborated with the Resident have found value in coming together of momentum over the past year and leveraging, developing a comprehen- Vacant Housing Task Force to develop and look forward to strengthening the will continue to promote collabora- sive housing framework for the neigh- a comprehensive strategy for housing services provided in the neighborhood tion within the nonprofit sector while borhood and promoting activities to inventory in Ohio City. The group will through these monthly conversations. strengthening our sense of community increase community awareness. evaluate and strategize based off this Mayor Frank Jackson will host the in Ohio City. Natalie Leek-Nelson, CEO and work to create a resource directory and Ohio City Dialogue Annual Meeting on President of Providence House, leads increase neighborhood support. Other March 22nd in the City Hall Rotunda. the Resource Leveraging Workgroup, upcoming priorities include increas- At the meeting, attendees will have the which has made significant progress ing accessibility to tenant and landlord opportunity to connect with other non- over the past year. The workgroup has resources as well as promoting Ohio profit and community leaders. There 8 Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org Ohio City Parents Build Community

(continued from page 1) remains a daunting prospect for many middle-class parents. The joys of rais- So when the Boyds became pregnant ing kids can easily turn into an isolated, in 2006 with their first child, Sofia, the lonely existence without a strong, sup- thought of moving out of the area never portive network to plug into. Although really crossed their minds. “We were Ohio City has long attracted young peo- committed to raising our kids here,” ple and empty nesters, it hasn’t always says Polanco-Boyd. “There’s a real sense had a vocal, organized parent group. of community.” That changed a few years ago with Until recently, it was virtually a fait the creation of the Ohio City Babysit- accompli that Cleveland families with ting Coop, a grassroots group formed by young kids would eventually move to the Martha Loughridge, Polanco-Boyd and suburbs, drawn by the promise of better others to swap sits and provide a social schools and family-friendly neighbor- and community network for other fami- hoods. Yet in near west neighborhoods lies in the neighborhood. like Ohio City, Tremont and Detroit “There was no sense of community Shoreway, that trend is now beginning to among parents in the neighborhood, reverse itself. Parents like the Polanco- and I had no idea how many families Boyds and others are putting down there were,” says Loughridge, who lives roots and discovering the kid-friendly on West 45th with her husband, Piet Van secrets of city living while creating their Lier, and their daughter Nora. She grew own DIY, bootstrap parenting ethos. inspired to start the group after learning “We have a lot of freedom and auton- about a similar network created by par- Piet Van Lier, Martha Loughridge and their daughter Nora omy to create our own activities and the ents in the 1990s. “Then our kids started also about defying stereotypes that the “There are always going to be things resources to carry out initiatives,” says playing together, and there was this feel- city isn’t kid-friendly. that are unfortunate about raising kids Polanco-Boyd, citing the creation of a ing of, ‘Oh wow, I’m not alone.’” youth soccer league last summer at Fair- “My kids are engaged and excited in the city, and safety is one of those view Park as one example of how Ohio ______and never at a loss for activities,” says things,” says Triece. “When I was six City parents often come together to ful- Molly Wimbiscus, who is raising two years old, I walked to school, but my fill a need. “If you want to do something, kids on Clinton Avenue with her hus- kids don’t walk to school even though people will support it.” “Then our kids started band, Joel. “My son has always been fas- it’s two blocks from my house. However, “The sense of community here is playing together, and cinated by transportation and buildings, when you do the cost-benefit analysis, fantastic, and people really care about and we can just walk across the bridge the benefits outweigh the costs.” each other,” adds Mary Triece, who there was this feel- to downtown and there’s a whole new Creating a sense of community lives on Bridge Avenue with her hus- world. And it’s all free.” among families is also one way to band and two kids, Dashell and Lily. ing of, ‘Oh wow, I’m Triece cites the near west side’s rec- address fears about the overall safety of “We are constantly interacting with reation options, including Fairview Park raising kids in the city, adds Wimbiscus. people from different races and back- not alone.’” and Zone Recreation Center, as family- “Our friends are really interesting and grounds, and that’s one of the reasons I ______friendly draws. The Dallas, Texas native have varied life experiences. They’re love the neighborhood.” grew up in a suburban community that role models for our kids.” Yet despite the redevelopment that’s Yet for these Ohio City parents, rais- she describes as “toxic” and “superfi- Although Ohio City is rich with occurred in Ohio City over the past ing kids in the city is not just about cial”; in college, she fell in love with Aus- amenities, there are still a limited two decades, raising a family here still meeting other middle-class parents, but tin’s urban neighborhoods and hasn’t number of organized activities for kids. looked back. She revels in Ohio City’s “For a lot of things, you still have to go diversity, authenticity and close proxim- out of the neighborhood,” says Lough- ity to everything that she loves to do. ridge, who cites the need for traffic- Of course, not everything is per- calming measures and more kid-friendly fect about raising kids on the near west pocket parks. “We need T-ball leagues side of Cleveland. Safety, schools, kid- and other types of activities for kids.” friendly amenities and out-of-school As Ohio City continues to evolve into activities remain top concerns. Yet the a vibrant, multigenerational neighbor- Ohio City Babysitting Coop, which now hood, these families hope that more par- consists of more than 20 families and is ents will decide to put down roots on the growing, is working to address some of near west side. Although past marketing these challenges. efforts have often been geared towards “The creation of quality school young professionals, a cohesive, organ- options such as Near West Intergenera- ized effort could help to market the tional School and Campus International neighborhood to families. School is a great trend,” says Polanco- “We’re only reaching a tiny percent- Boyd, who is sending Sofia to Birchwood age of parents now,” says Polanco-Boyd. School, an independent school with an “If more people knew Ohio City was international focus. Sofia’s teacher is family-friendly, they could plan to stay from Argentina and they often speak here long-term.” Norma Palanco-Boyd, Joe Boyd and their daughters at home in Ohio City Spanish together. Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org 9

Know Your Server: Joy Valentine, Manager of Market Avenue Wine Bar

Wine connoisseur? Perhaps. Lover What makes you come to work? How have you seen the neighbor- Spring or fall? of Ohio City? Absolutely. It’s the clientele; we have such a great hood change? Fall because I love Halloween and Joy Valentine has managed the group of people coming here… and the Some people think that the neighbor- Day of the Dead, the crisp air and the well-established Market Avenue Wine wine, too. But it really is the people. hood is so busy right now; it’s not like crunchy leaves, fire and the way it Bar for over 15 years. “Since August 1st, There are regulars, newcomers, afi- this community sprang into being smells in the fall… my birthday, I’m an 1995,” she recollects. cionados, restaurant workers, college overnight and there was nothing here October baby. I love the fact that I get Like so many local business own- students, people from every age group before… I remember Babylon A-Go-Go, to put my yard to rest for a hot minute ers, professionals and entrepreneurs, and all walks of life. where Flying Fig is now. I saw Smash- and relax a little bit. Joy is also an Ohio City resident of ing Pumpkins for free there in 1990. I 14 years. What sets Ohio City’s Wine Bar think the Wine Bar has been an anchor What should we be looking for- Originally from Fairview Park, she apart from other establishments? in the area, and has survived the trends ward to at the Wine Bar? attended Laurel School growing up. It’s still a cozy, comfortable place. and changes of the neighborhood. Patio weather! After deciding that her Jewelry and It seems like bars and restaurants Metal Design major at Kent State Uni- Besides wine, what other hobbies Anything else you want to say tend to get bigger and bigger and or interests do you have? versity was going to be more of a hobby, louder and louder. This is a place to about Market Avenue Wine Bar? rather than a career, Joy switched have conversation with somebody, Property ownership and gardening. I I love it. If you haven’t been, come. directions and focused on bartending relax and enjoy a nice glass of wine, love music, but unfortunately I’m not able And if you have been here a few times, school instead. not stare at 12 TVs. to catch a lot of concerts because I work come again anyways. Before finding her calling in the weekends. I also enjoy travelling: I’ve been Market Avenue Wine Bar is located wine industry, she impressively held What’s your favorite wine? to Russia, China and Spain through my at 2521 Market Avenue and is open Sun- eleven different jobs at once, which My favorite wine is the next wine; I’m time at Laurel. I’ve also travelled to Italy, day through Friday from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. included delivering newspapers, ven- always looking for something new. England, Denmark, Norway and Mexico, and Saturdays from 12:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. turing into the catering business, Our menu adjusts with the season: and I’ve been to every state in the country painting and working at Blossom every month or so, the assortment of except Washington, Oregon, Alaska and Music Center. the food and wine varies. Hawaii. I’m planning a trip to Seattle’s Joy knew nothing about wine before wine country in April, so I’ll knock out starting her management position at What do you love about Ohio City? Washington and Oregon then. My par- Market Avenue Wine Bar; everything There’s great dining and drinking. ent’s 50th anniversary is next year and she knows, she has learned on the fly. The community has evolved with we’re putting together a trip to Australia, As I sat down with Joy for this inter- the people, but the one thing that is New Zealand and possibly Japan as well. view on a Wednesday afternoon, the permanent is the West Side Market. Now, for a little ‘this or that’: phone was ringing nonstop, visitors and That’s the core of the neighborhood, business associates were coming and and that’s the thing that keeps peo- nighttime or daytime? going, and the wine bar wasn’t even open Nighttime. ple coming back here. The old archi- For more information, yet. “Welcome to my Monday,” she joked, tecture is great, and I just love how Cake or ice cream? call 216.696.WINE(9463) or visit explaining that she works Wednesday the neighborhood flows. www.marketavenuewinebar.com. through Sunday, every week. Yes. Interview by Samantha Martin 10 Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org Dr. Brian Donley Aims to Continue Top-Notch Care at Lutheran Hospital by Anne Gallagher While Lutheran Hospital offers a full array of health care services As a foot and ankle expert who has within its 204-bed, acute-care facility, consulted with professional sports it is especially well known for: ortho- teams and worked in clinical settings paedics, spine care, behavioral medi- across the country, Dr. Brian Donley, cine and wound care. MD, is used to working in a diverse In his new role as hospital presi- array of communities. And now, as the dent, Dr. Donley is using the admin- president of Lutheran Hospital, he is istrative skills he developed while putting his best effort into continuing serving as Senior Vice President of to offer top-notch health care services to Surgical Operations at the hospital and as ’s Vice Chair- the Ohio City community. man of the Department of Orthopaedic “Our mission at Lutheran Hospital Surgery, Director of the Center for Foot is to provide the highest quality care and Ankle within the Orthopaedic and that meets the specific needs of the Rheumatologic Institute and chair of land Indians and . populations we serve,” says Dr. Don- the Professional Conduct Committee. An active researcher, he worked with ley. “Toward this end, we work hard to Dr. Donley completed his under- an international team at Lutheran identify what health care services are graduate work at the University of Hospital to develop a new total ankle required and then we secure the best Notre Dame. After graduating with replacement and was the first ortho- staff and most advanced equipment distinction from the University of paedic surgeon in the world to implant and technologies available to fulfill Michigan Medical School, he served the Salto Talaris Ankle. those needs.” internships in general surgery and Dr. Donley teaches pre-medical “Patients receive these leading- orthopaedic surgery at the University and medical students, has authored edge treatments in an environment of Michigan Health System and a fel- numerous publications and has deliv- that is both intimate and friendly,” he lowship in foot and ankle surgery at ered more than 200 international and adds. “We are proud to be located in Campbell Clinic in Memphis. national presentations. Ohio City, a vibrant, rejuvenated com- He was named an American-Brit- Regarding his new position as munity, and we enjoy developing per- ish-Canadian Travelling Fellow in president of Lutheran, he says, “This sonal relationships with our patients 2007 and one of “America’s Best Doc- is a tremendous opportunity to work and fellow employees, who often com- tors” every year since 2006. with the hospital’s dedicated team of ment on our family-like atmosphere. It In addition to his clinical responsi- caregivers. I look forward to continu- is no surprise that our patient satisfac- bilities, Dr. Donley serves as a consult- ing to build on the long and great tra- tion scores are high.” ant for the , Cleve- dition of Lutheran Hospital.” Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org 11 Occupy Ohio City: How a Young Family has Settled in for the Long Haul by DANIEL SCHARF on the door and check things out. The gentleman that answered the door was the seller, and he was prepping hen Greg and Tana Peckham began graduate the place for an open house. He told them what he was school at Case Western Reserve University, asking, and after a quick little conference with each Wneither of them anticipated moving across other, Greg and Tana said they’d take it on the spot. The the river to Ohio City to raise a family together. apple, pear, and pawpaw trees in the yard made the deci- To begin with, they weren’t a couple, and they didn’t sion a no-brainer. exactly come from similar backgrounds. Tana came to And so it went for a few years: the couple worked on Cleveland after being born and raised in the heart of their house themselves, added a wood burning stove, Philadelphia, choosing Case thinking that she would updated the kitchen, and generally made it a home. But have the support of an aunt and uncle in Shaker Heights. while they built their life together in Ohio City, their needs Turns out her arrival coincided with their departure evolved. First one daughter, and then another, and sud- from the Cleveland area. So the Philly native found her- denly their spacious one bathroom cottage started feeling self a stranger in a strange land without the comforts of a little less spacious. Add to that Tana’s family visiting family or the Liberty Bell. That wasn’t much of a prob- from Philadelphia on a regular basis and it was time to The Peckham houses on John will be completed lem, though – she didn’t plan on sticking around after move on from the house, but leaving the neighborhood, or later this year getting her master’s degree. even the street, wasn’t a happy thought. Greg had been the to love. Although they weren’t able to take advantage of Greg’s path to Ohio City didn’t cover as many miles, Executive Director of Cleveland Public Art, now LAND a CASH loan, that classic lifeline for Clevelanders doing but it wasn’t any more likely. He grew up in Cleveland studio, a nonprofit on West 25th with a mission of improv- rehab work, they stressed that their project never would Heights, and prior to developing a relationship with ing Cleveland’s neighborhoods though public art, sustain- have broken ground without CASH’s help navigating Tana, his limited knowledge of Ohio City, like so many able building, and programming. Tana works in market- the sometimes intimidating world of bank financing. eastsiders, ended at West 25th. Yet in 1999, when he ing for Nestle. They were both perfectly comfortable in With CASH’s guidance, the Peckham’s have been able and Tana decided that it was time to move in together, their adopted community. Still, they needed more space, to renovate a vacant property and enjoy the bones of they settled on renting on the Near West Side. Once and with three women in the house another bathroom a classic Ohio City home with an energy efficient inte- they started living here, they were hooked. For Tana, wouldn’t hurt, either, so it was time to start looking, and rior that suits their needs and is as comfortable as any Ohio City offered something a bit closer to the city liv- thankfully they didn’t have too look far. new construction. As an added bonus, all that money invested in their John Avenue home comes back in tax credits thanks to engaging Humanity’s Loom, a “green rater” company, to work closely with their contractor, Larry Brichacek of Homeland Building & Design. Not to mention a yard that would make any urban gardener swoon. Everyone wins. Now that their home project is underway, Greg and Tana are preparing to address another factor of urban family life – where to send their girls to school. Luckily, there have never been so many options. Greg and Tana are both products of public schools, and while many of their friends have been having good luck with the paro- chial options in the neighborhood, they didn’t think that was for them. Fortunately, they are happy to have new options in the city, including the newly opened Near West Intergenerational School and Cleveland State Univer- sity’s Campus International School. Tana, whose father is from Shanghai, is particularly enticed by its’ Mandarin Chinese language immersion, but Greg and Tana were also part of the parent group that brought the Intergener- The Peckham Family on the stoop of their future home ational School to Ohio City, so it will be a tough decision. ing she left behind back east. For Greg, it was a whole After searching Ohio City for a place to raise a fam- Of course, better too many choices than too few, and until new world as fresh as it was for his East Coast part- ily, they found not one, but two currently vacant homes then, the child care provided Merrick House in nearby ner. Ohio City offered the benefit of new locale without that fit the bill, both a stone’s throw away from where Tremont suits the Peckham’s needs well. having to leave Cleveland. they are currently living. Purchasing a home is never Greg and Tana wanted to make it work in Ohio City, But all was not instantly well for newly married Greg easy, and starting with a vacant place stripped of its and by their own efforts and the help of others they’ve and Tana. After happily renting for a year and a half, a plumbing certainly doesn’t simplify things. Yet part of been able to do so. A perfect home renovated to their roof collapse forced their hand. They needed a new place what’s great about Ohio City, and Cleveland in general, specifications with a great yard, an array of options for and they needed it that moment. Fresh out of grad school is that there’s lots of support for people who have a little their daughters’ education, and a community filled with and not quite ready to settle down as homeowners, they patience and are committed to staying. So with the help individuals just as committed to Ohio City as they are – started looking for another rental in the neighborhood. of Cleveland Action to Support Housing (CASH), Ohio it’s all here. And with people like Greg and Tana putting While searching on Woodbine Avenue Greg and Tana City Inc., Councilman Joe Cimperman, and First Merit down their roots here and raising a family in a neigh- saw a sign advertising an upcoming open house. They Bank, Greg and Tana are in the process of realizing their borhood that they’re proud of, it’s hard to imagine Ohio weren’t looking to buy, but figured they would knock dream of staying in a neighborhood that they had come City’s growing appeal slowing down anytime soon.

Offer expires 05.31.2012 12 Ohio City Argus | ohiocity.org Ohio City Home Tour’s Storied History Shows Off Community Spirit by MARGARET LATCH Water Partners, Kloud9, and CoWork Cleveland, a virtual office space, and t will soon be May and that must the future home of Rising Star Coffee mean that it is time for the annual Roasters. The Firehouse will again be IOhio City Home Tour. We say that featured during this year’s Weekend in this year marks the 24th anniversary of Ohio City. The changes in use of these this traditional Ohio City event, but is two historic structures reflect the con- that true? Some reflections upon history tinuing transformation of Ohio City. tell the story of how this signature event Just as the commercial spaces are has helped to catalyze and promote the changing to modern uses, the homes redevelopment of our neighborhood. on the Tour have changed from being Since the 1970s there have been old and historic to also being newly home tours in Ohio City. Originally, the constructed and new interpretations Ohio City House & Garden Tours were of historic homes. Today, the featured private enterprises conceived and con- properties reflect the greater variety ducted by Bruce Heddersen and Carol of styles and sizes now available in Lieblinger-Heddersen to demonstrate Ohio City. the progress made by the early urban In 1994, the Ohio City Home Tour pioneers in Ohio City. Just as with the added Evening in Ohio City to the Makar condo featured on the Sunday Home Tour in 2010 (Photo credit Scott Madis) modern tour, it was a means of show- Home Tour weekend and Weekend in ing off Ohio City to hundreds of visitors Ohio City was born. When first con- who came from out of town and from ceived, one committee member com- the suburbs to see living Cleveland his- plained that “no one will pay $25 to tory and the positive changes wrought see six houses!” Today, 19 years later, a in an inner-city neighborhood. In 1982, ticket to Evening in Ohio City is a much these Ohio City House & Garden Tours sought after prize. donated to the neighborhood the plaque In time, the Tour has introduced on the side of Heck’s Café, which tells thousands of people to Ohio City, the history of Ohio City. including many who have decided that Some years the Tour was held and Ohio City is where they want to live. A some years it was not. Sometime in the fair number have packed up and moved mid-80’s a group of Ohio City “mov- here, becoming ingrained in the com- ers and shakers” were meeting to plan munity. The original goal of showing off another event and the conversation Ohio City and demonstrating commit- turned to resurrecting the home tour. ment to the neighborhood continues to Paula Slimak became the chair of the this day. event and a new incarnation of the Ohio Over the years hundreds of people City Home Tour was off and running. have helped plan and run the Ohio City The Ohio City Home and Art Show Home Tour. Even at the risk of leav- officially became an annual event in ing people out and offending someone, 1989 (although there were Tours in 1987 a few of these people are: Hap Gray, and 1988) with all profits going to Ohio Elaine Murphy, Linda Malik, Jim Malik, City Incorporated and its precursor Anita Woodward, Jim Woodward, organizations: Ohio City Redevelop- Roy Pogalis, Mark Lastition, Paula Beautiful details of 3900 Bridge Avenue ment Association, Ohio City Develop- Slimak,Thom Geist, Christopher Leo, ment Corporation and Ohio City Near Greg Walland, John Peterson, Rae Ann West Development Corporation. Fowler, Anne Bloomberg, Keith Konaje- Starting in 1989, the Tour took on ski, Doug Kohout, Judy Kohout, Bernie features that will be familiar to tour- Thiel, Angela Hummel, Ed Small, Dave goers today. Chief among them are Dennis, Gus LoPresti, Jim Mahon, Alan the third weekend in May date, Lolly Fodor, Lesa Hess, Bob Shores, Charles the Trolley providing transportation, Davis, Cristine Hoffmann, Ben Hoff- and both a garden and commercial mann, Cris Filmer, Julie Kurtock, and stop. In addition to these now famil- many, many more. This year’s commit- iar attributes, there have also been art tee includes Becky Astrop, Amanda shows and antique fairs as a part of the Wilden, Luis Hernandez, Virginia Home Tour. Houston, Susan Muglich, Rick Advey, Frequently the Tour has featured Andrew Blank, Troy Piper, James an “in-progress” stop showing what Barnes, and Margaret Latch. it takes to bring back a long neglected This year Weekend in Ohio City is or muddled structure. One such “in- again the third weekend in May (May progress” house is located at 3900 19th and 20th), and again will feature Bridge Avenue. In 1993, Doug and Judy Lolly the Trolley, garden and commer- Kohout showed off both finished and cial stops, and perhaps an in-progress in-progress work on their home, and stop. An important tradition that will then in 1996 they displayed the com- continue is the sponsorship and sup- pleted work. This wonderful Victorian, port of Lutheran Hospital, Dave’s Mar- now owned by Greg Walland and John ket, and Great Lakes Brewing Com- Peterson, was again featured in 2009. pany (and more to come!). Weekend in The commercial stops also reflect Ohio City would not be possible with- the continuing evolution of Ohio City. out the support of our wonderful and In 1990, two commercial structures generous homeowners, volunteers, were on the Tour. They were the old restaurants, and businesses that all Firehouse #4 at 1455 W. 29th St., then an work together to make the weekend artist studio, and Ron Dewey’s sculp- successful and to make Ohio City the ture studio at 1460 W. 29th St. The dynamic place it is today. sculpture studio was in itself symbolic This spirit has been reflected in the of the rebirth of Ohio City, as it began Tour from the beginning and continues life as a transformer station for the old to this day, whether the Tour is in its Cleveland Railroad Company. 24th year or its 40th. Both of these structures are again in the news as the old transformer station is set to become new gallery space for the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the old firehouse is now the home of North