City

On Saturday, Lakewood joined Cleveland in hosting a Walk + Roll event. After shutting down Detroit from Marlowe to Arthur, and Belle from Detroit to Lakewood Park, Lakewoodites were encouraged to walk, ride their bikes, or roller-skate through the streets.

In addition to the main goal of the event-to get to know the city better and to use a simpler, more efficient means of transportation-there were numerous activities and booths lining Detroit Avenue...

It was a small public turnout for tonight’s Lakewood City Council meeting. Council President Michael Dever called the meeting to order at 7:37 p.m. Clerk of Council Mary Hagan called the role. All members of council were in attendance as well as Mayor Ed Fitzgerald and all department directors. The docket for the evening was 65 pages with 36 agenda items...

Westwood Avenue resident Dan Shields, candidate for the Ward 2 council seat being vacated by Ryan Demro, was chosen by Lakewood voters to advance to the General Election to be held November 6, 2007. "I want to thank all of the people who voted for me in the Primary Election, and look forward to sharing our message of positive change for the city as we head toward November.”

How We Formed a Neighborhood Watch for 2,000 Households and Businesses in Ward 3.

In May of 2009, the City of Lakewood will be switching to an Automated Refuse Collection System. This new approach is part of Mayor FitzGerald’s Green Refuse & Recycling Initiative which was presented to City Council in November of 2008.  The automated system will be more efficient, more economical and more environmentally responsible.   

In response to our current economic situation, and the number of vacant homes in and around the city, I have decided to forgo my usual financial banter and write about the situation that effects all of us and has raised questions from the people I meet on a daily basis and my current clients. This may be a little dry but I am going to try and reveal some facts of what has happened with our economy and some certainties for the future...

You may be acquainted with Madison Avenue and you pass by her all the time, but do you know that Madison Avenue is worth getting to know on a more intimate level?  No, Madison Avenue isn’t looking so fresh and glamorous like other shopping centers you may leave town to visit these days.  But she’s full of character and heart and soul...

Read any issue of the Lakewood Observer and you’ll find many articles promoting races, runs, walks and community festivals. Add to that a calendar packed with high school sporting events in one of the region’s best stadiums and you have the recipe for an active, vibrant community...

July 24 Lakewood Community Conference on Building Neighborhoods: To curb nuisance behavior and crime, improve homes and streets, and build pride in our neighborhoods, we’ll create a “Good Neighborhoods Blueprint” and form neighborhood-based action teams to address quality of life issues.

Lackluster.

That is the one word that could accurately describe the Palin “Road to Victory” rally on Monday.

Attending the rally as press, and therefore unaffiliated with either party, I was anticipating something along the lines of the numerous sound bites readily available on any news feed or mainstream media coverage. Palin's rallies have received so much attention from the press in the past for their rowdy conclusions and high energy level that it was not outlandish for me to assume that the Lakewood rally, while I hoped it would not take on a hateful sentiment, would at least be lively. 

Well, I was wrong.

After an immense amount of hard work, thanks to many area contractors, the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce's new home is located at 16017 Detroit Avenue. The building was once home to Today's Headlines Salon. After an extended vacancy, it is wonderful to see such a unique building put to good use once again...

On Wednesday April 23rd, 2008 the Lakewood Police Department received a request for assistance from the Cleveland Office of the ATF. A 33yr old Lakewood man had been electronically corresponding with a juvenile in Indiana. The two were planning to commit a shooting incident at an Indiana school...

Inspired by the festive Higbee’s Twigbee shop, young volunteers in the city of Lakewood’s H2O “Help to Others” program are busy as elves creating inexpensive holiday gifts for a Santa shop that will open during this year’s Light Up Lakewood event on Saturday, Dec. 6...

It's that time of year again...the leaves are falling, the temperature's dropping, and Lakewood's being turned into Halloween central! That's right it's time for the 4th Annual West End Halloween Window Walk. Since 2005, The Lakewood Chamber and the Beck Center have had Lakewood school kids transform the store fronts in the West End of Lakewood along Detroit Avenue into a spooky outdoor art gallery. For the past few years, many West End stores have allowed kids in grades K-12 to paint their front windows with ghosts, pumpkins, and many other Halloween spirited creatures...

Main Street Lakewood has been awarded a $23,175 grant by Heritage Ohio for a comprehensive signage and wayfinding design package for the downtown district. This project is an outgrowth of the much larger community-based Detroit Avenue Streetscape Plan funded by a $75,000 grant award from NOACA completed in December of 2007...

Lakewood Walks Main Street participants recently walked nearly 200 miles on a beautiful summer day in downtown Lakewood with the help of LakewoodAlive, Beck Center, Main Street, Lakewood Hospital and Lakewood Historical Society volunteers. Over 100 participants walked one or two mile routes along Detroit Avenue, stopping in at merchants along the way. All participating businesses (and several more) donated items and/or gift certificates for a raffle drawing for the walkers...

April is the month for Lakewood residents entering grades 6-9 next fall to register for H2O “Help to Others” Summer Service Camp. Registration forms are available at both Lakewood Public Libraries and Lakewood Division of Youth. Interested families can also access more information or download forms on the Division of Youth webpage at the City’s website: www.onelakewood.com. H2O Summer Service Camp is operated by the City of Lakewood, Dept. of Human Services, Division of Youth...

Lakewood resident and community activist Tom Bullock became the first candidate for Lakewood City Council by announcing that he is running to represent Ward 2. Bullock pledged to run an “energetic, open and neighborly campaign” and said he will start door-knocking in March to get to know voters and not stop until November 6. Bullock has already formed a campaign committee, is raising money and is organizing a “large, diverse team” of volunteers.

A dreary Monday morning in Lakewood was spiced up by a last-minute “Road to Victory” campaign stop for the Republican Vice-Presidential nominee, Governor Sarah Palin. What could be called a relatively small and halcyon audience greeted the White House hopeful along with several local Republicans on northeast Ohio tickets. Volunteers were surprised by the size of the turnout, claiming it to be larger than expected, considering only two days notice.

Lakewood Community Progress Inc. (LCPI) is sponsoring its 1st Annual Cornhole Tournament on Saturday, August 11. The event will be held at the parking lot located at the corner of Mathews and Detroit across from the entrance to the MetroParks.

On Saturday, October 18th, Lakewood Mayor Ed Fitzgerald attended, and was the featured speaker, at a breakfast at the Lakewood United Methodist Church on Detroit Ave. Mayor Fitzgerald spoke about current issues with housing stock, street repairs, community services, and Lakewood's cooperation with other local communities in areas beneficial for all concerned. Mayor Fitzgerald entertained questions from the breakfast participants for an extended period of time...

Main Street Lakewood, in collaboration with Lakewood Hospital and the City of Lakewood, encourages all Lakewood residents and workers to make walking a part of their everyday routine by exploring Lakewood’s Main Street anytime from 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 20. This is a “rain or shine” event!

The Busy Bee Auxiliary of Ann Rutledge Chapter #453 of Ohio Eastern Star (a non-profit charity) will host its 2nd. Annual Open House and "Trinkets and Treasures" Bazaar at the Lakewood Masonic Temple on Saturday, August 2nd. from 10A.M. to 5P.M., located at the far west end of the Lakewood Arts Festival...

Ian Bell, a third-grader at Taft Elementary, received second place in his third grade category in Reading Rainbow's Young Writers and Illustrators Contest. The contest is in its fourteenth year and had 550 submissions this year. The contest is for children in kindergarten through third grade...

(The Reverend) David M. Bargetzi asks "It is revealed to me that there is a property
easement on the lot I just bought. What are easements, should I worry?"

Vice President of Council, Mary Louise Madigan, called the October 5, 2009 City Council meeting to order at 7:40 P.M. The first order of business was to excuse Council President Michael Dever for his tardiness do to another engagement. Next Councilwoman Madigan read a resolution that was presented by all of Council recognizing Milan Stankovich, upon his retirement, for his many years of service to Lakewood.

In an effort to provide information to the voters and residents of Lakewood, the Lakewood Observer asked three of Lakewood’s media luminaries to ask questions of the candidates for Mayor.

This week, County Commissioners Hagan and Dimora voted to raise the sales tax from 7.5 cents per dollar to 7.75 cents per dollar. That may not seem like much, but if you consider our economic station as Cuyahoga County residents, it’s abominable.

By Maggie FraleyUnfounded negative talk can sometimes evolve into exaggerated rumors. In real estate, rumors may make Lakewood seem like the Britney Spears of Cuyahoga County. But look closer at the facts to reveal a case of mistaken identity.

In the '70s, West 6th Street in Cleveland’s Historic Warehouse District was home to aging companies and the area was declining. Home to the homeless, these buildings were constructed during Cleveland’s industrial revolution (1870-1920).

Contrary to popular belief, Mars Avenue was not named for our neighboring planet. Mars Avenue was named for an early resident named Mars Wagar.

As the summer moves forward, the children are now out of school. This leads to a whole new set of scenarios for potential dog bites. In order to keep your mail carrier and pet safe, we offer these suggestions...

Matthew John Markling is the only Lakewood School Board candidate to be endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Western Cuyahoga Lodge #25.

The challenge is before all of us: move east, move west, move south, or simply stay here in Lakewood. Speaking from personal experience, it sure seems like staying put is the best decision. The next step is to analyze the great things about this town and the other things that need a little push. So, here goes..

Dear Goddess Blessed,

 

Walking into your store is like taking the time to give myself a big hug! Whenever I feel that I am tapped out and I get that tired look on my face, I know it’s time for a little nurturing of the mind, spirit, and body. I am grateful your store is right down the street to help me do that. Thank you for your book selection especially geared towards women for reference and inspiration. Particularly, Christian Northrup’s books about women’s health issues have been a godsend...

On April 5th the Lakewood High School East Cafeteria and Civic Auditorium were teaming with hundreds of fitness and bodybuilding enthusiasts. The "2008 Vyotech Nutritional NPC Natural Ohio Drug Tested Bodybuilding and Figure Championships" received a record number of fans. Hundreds filed into the East Cafeteria for the fitness expo and to buy tickets for the bodybuilding and figure contest...

A few issues ago, in describing the Youth Master Plan process as seen through the eyes of one on the Education team, I used the term “Procrustean bed.” In more recent meetings the term “bureaucratic wrangling” has come to mind.

When Rick Naumann got out of bed this morning, he knew he wasn’t going to have a good day but he probably didn’t think it was going to be this bad. The good news is that Mr. Naumann avoided jail time, the bad news is he won’t be going home anytime soon.

A two-family home may be an excellent housing option for many Lakewoodites. Rental income assists the owner with a monthly mortgage payment and residents can enjoy flexible living situations, making this an attractive choice. Closer proximity to friends or family members who are able to live in the same house, one-floor living and a preference for friends to commingle without cohabitating are a few reasons people choose two-family homes.

New curbside parking for bicycles would ease Lakewood’s car parking shortage, make it easier for customers to reach local stores, and boost bottom lines for Lakewood small businesses, said an alternative transportation expert during a recent visit.

Ward 2 Councilman Tom Bullock said today he is running for a second term to continue his work to keep Lakewood safe, clean, and family friendly, improve housing quality, and make Lakewood the leading walking, green city in Ohio. Bullock is unopposed.

Bullock said as he approaches the end of his first term, he’s as energized as ever to work for the community.

“After four years, I still believe in Lakewood. I am still excited to work for this vibrant community,” said Bullock. “I am still energized by this job and the honor of serving residents.”

On July 4th, Trinity Lutheran Church (TLC) will participate in Lakewood's annual 4th of July parade. Pastor Paula Maeder Connor and members of the church will push grocery carts to collect donations for the Lakewood Christian Service Center.

Weekly Wednesday night Lakewood Phoenix bike rides began with the start of warmer weather. Unfortunately, there were no media present. Being the first ride, the turnout was rather low. A sizeable contingent split off to make music before the ride was underway, further damaging the flanks.

Lakewood, Ohio, resident Zoe Lukens, ‘09, the daughter of Thomas and Nancy Lukens of Lakewood, presented her research on “The Search for Nationalism: Success and Failure in Senegal and Cote d’Ivoire” at the 32nd Annual Beloit College Student Symposium on Thursday, April 10. She is an Anthropology major...

On the first Saturday evening of the month contra dancing is going on here in the heart of Lakewood. Contra dancing takes place at college campuses and urban and rural communities nationwide. Every age finds enjoyment and exercise from the traditional American community dance. It stems from the 17th century English Country Dance and the music is mostly traditional Irish, English, and Scottish jigs and reels. The band, Mud In Yer Eye, currently consists of about forty musicians from all over Northeast Ohio...

HIGH SCHOOL EXAM PREP COURSE
Padre Pio Academy High School Exam Preparation Course is designed to help your child prepare for entrance exams at the local private high schools. The course will be held over 4 sessions and will focus on material common to the standardized testing generally administered by high schools during November. This is a great way to methodically review core material and learn how to take a test with confidence...

The Lakewood Democratic Club endorsed Joe Dangelo in the Lakewood City Council Race for Ward 3 at its' September 6th meeting at the Lakewood Women’s Pavilion.

On September 6, 2011, Lakewood City Council reconvened in the City Hall Auditorium to a modest crowd of about 30, for its first meeting after the summer holiday. The meeting was called to order at 7:32 P.M. by Council President Mary Louise Madigan.

Lakewood’s debut Spooky Pooch Parade this Saturday, Oct. 18 is sure to bring out the best of our city’s furry friends. Already registered to stroll down Detroit Avenue in their Halloween best are Elvis, Sammy the Cowboy, Charlie the Angel, and Fritz the Butterfly. Join the menagerie this Saturday at 2 p.m. when the parade kicks off at the corner of Detroit and St. Charles avenues and proceeds westward to the Lakewood Public Library. Pet owners and their children are encouraged to come in costume as well. It’s destined to become a Halloween family tradition. “This hilarious new event will bring all of Lakewood together to celebrate Halloween,” said parade co-founder Rhonda Loje. “Come strut in costume through our great walkable city. It will be great fun for dogs and kids,” she said. The first 200 registered participants will receive a goody bag filled with both doggie treats and toys...

Ahh!..Lakewood, I love this place. It’s been home to me and my three children for nearly 18 years now and has been a system of support for us through many tough times.

Have you ever wished that your oatmeal was more interesting or that your Cheerio's had a little more zing? Did you ever want to put something more than milk in the bowl? Gummi bears? Cookies? Well, now, at Cereal Central, you just might get that bowl that Mom would never serve you...

Jenny Reali and Lakewood Early Childhood PTA have done it again!

As Jeanine Gergel, this years outgoing LECPTA President, always says, “If the world were run by a bunch of preschool moms, it would be a better place!”

“Meet the Trucks” was met with huge success again this year. This year’s crowds doubled with approximately 3,000 in attendance. Reali guessed that the crowd increase was due to heavy PR work like the new banners around town made by the City of Lakewood and Lakewood City Schools who helped get the word out...

Bike Lakewood’s “Tour de Wings” went off Saturday, June 21st under perfect conditions. Our tour of Lakewood’s finer wing purveyors has become more than an excellent way to pedal around town with friends and sample some great food – the conversation this year was positively stimulating. But more on that later. First the “Tour de Wings”, a group bike ride we organized in conjunction with the Jaycee’s “Best Wings in Lakewood” event. It was, as noted, a beautiful day. Bright sunshine, low 80’s – perfect for a ride. We convened at Crazy Rita’s in the middle of town at 11:30 AM: Rob, Frank, Mattie, Ryan, Mike and I. After a couple very tasty wings, which we were told were based on “an old Rita’s family recipe”, we were off on the Tour!

The Lakewood Observer has maintained a policy of neutrality on issues and candidates to encourage wide-spread participation in our open source volunteer civic journalism experiment. After nearly two years in print, we can call the trial a success. As such, this accomplishment comes with responsibility.

Have you ever been frustrated when driving down Detroit Avenue at 5 p.m. and found yourself stuck in gridlock? Is Detroit two lanes in either direction or one lane in two directions? Are you a restaurant or coffee shop owner who would like to provide outdoor café seating to your patrons? Are you an art lover who would like to see more public art? Now is your chance to play a role in designing the future of Lakewood’s Main Street. On Wednesday, January 31st Lakewood businesses and residents will have their first opportunity to voice concerns, opinions and ideas on ways to make Detroit Avenue more attractive and more pedestrian friendly. This is the first in a series of three public meetings. The meeting will take place at Grant Elementary School at 7:00 p.m. and is open to everyone in the community.

Is it too good to be true? Seemingly, it is.

Even though the RTA has offered our City of Lakewood "free" Circulator Buses, there seems to be strings attached. Our Mayor, Edward FitzGerald, is reluctant to make a commitment because of a $15,000 charge.

There is a price for everything and we seniors are paying for not having this service. The stress that has been experienced is incalculable. We have to walk more, carpool, pay for taxis or wait excessively for other avenues o transporation, or go without.

We seniors need this service to survive. It is not only a convenience, but it is a necessity. The one day per week service proposed is inadequate. We have daily needs and , of course, there are emergencies. The heretofore provision is gone.

Then, we cannot forget the physically challenged and the mroe severely disabled. We do not want them to be discriminated against. They truly need the assistance.

Perhaps the Mayor's idea of a wide Circulator Route encompassing Tremont, Lakewood to Kamm's Corners could be a viable solution.

A citizen's group called the Riders To Bring Back Daily Circulators will be meeting Sunday, November 1, 3 p.m. at the Lakewood Public Libary main branch, Multipurpose Room. For more information you can call 216-221-2724.

 

Mailboxes are an important part of daily mail delivery. They come in all shapes and sizes. Mailboxes should be spotted easily by the carriers as they are delivering. If a carrier cannot find the box easily, they will return the mail back to the Post Office. Here are some tips to help ensure you receive daily accurate delivery...