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LakewoodAlive is proud to celebrate Mark McNamara, our Community Engagement Specialist, winning the 2024 Golden Achievement Award presented by Benjamin Rose.The Golden Achievement Award honors individuals 60 years of age or older who have achieved distinction in their professional field of expertise and/or community leadership. Nominees' commitment to rethinking aging and defying stereotypes serves as a model for others. 

Having spent the majority of his career working for the Cuyahoga County Department of Children and Family Services, Mark was a social worker who handled child abuse, neglect, and adoption cases. After retiring from his initial career, he returned to the workforce, joining LakewoodAlive in 2015 as a part-time Community Engager. Rather than slowing down over the years, Mark expanded his responsibilities by transitioning to full time employment as Community Engagement Specialist, allowing him to connect with more residents, particularly in the Birdtown and Scenic Park neighborhoods. 

Working primarily with low-to-moderate-income and senior residents, Mark helps fellow seniors age in place safely by conducting assessments of their daily routines and providing recommendations to improve their homes. This allows Mark to build relationships with fellow residents and helps grant them access to other programs such as weatherization, exterior paint, and more.

Only Glen Mittler knows the secret bubble formula.

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Celebrate family, community and cultural heritage at the 36th Annual Lakewood Community Festival on Saturday, September 7, 2024 at Madison Park, 13201 Madison Avenue. The day of fun and activities for the entire family will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., rain or shine.

The festival is known for a delicious array of nationality foods including pierogis, potato pancakes, stuffed cabbage and more. There will be pizza, of course, and other selections as well. You will want to save room for traditional ethnic pastries, ice cream and other desserts.

The family friendly event includes numerous activities for children, including an inflatable obstacle course, crafts and games. Keith “Magic Man” Heidenreich will be creating balloon magic and Glen Mittler will be on hand with his formula for giant bubbles.

Keep a look out for the team from the Rocky River Nature Center. They will provide the opportunity to discover and learn about the wild animals who make Ohio their home.

Throughout the day, musical entertainment will be provided by 2 Guys 12 Strings (11 a.m.), The Newcomers (noon), The Happy Ramblers (1 p.m.), The Polka Pirates (2 p.m.), Riley & Flanagan (3 p.m.), and Jim Schafer and Friends (4 p.m.).

ARIES: Get out & about Ram; the Sun is shining in your 6th house of health, Jupiter’s lighting up communication; take a jog through the Metro parks & mingle with others.

TAURUS: The Bull's got luck this month with romance & finances; the Sun is shining on your love gene, while Jupiter’s spreading its financial blessings on the Bullpen.

GEMINI: The Twins' focus this September is on the home front; the Twins are also front & center with Jupiter landing in the first house of your personality; shine on.

CANCER: The Crab is coming out of its shell this month, & the Sun is lighting up your Chatty Cathy side; although don't share the family secrets, Jupiter’s in your 12th house.

LEO: It's time to redo the Jungle; the Lion/Lioness has come into some financial blessings this month; Jupiter’s in the 11th house of friends, throw a party Lion-style.

VIRGO:  Virgo, it's all about you; the Sun is shining on your personality, so lighten it up a bit. Jupiter’s also stopping by your career sector, take your coworkers to Happy Hour.

LIBRA: Libras have got something going on behind the scenes this month, so hold it close to your chest. Jupiter’s landed in your 9th house of foreign travel; did you plan that trip?

Nala (ID#3470)

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Hi there, I'm Nala (ID#3470), a tiny, fuzzy 3-month old female kitten with the softest fur and the biggest, roundest eyes. Every day, I wake up at the shelter, hoping today will be the day I get to go home with my family.

When the humans walk by, I sit in my little litter box and peek out in the most adorable way. Sometimes they stop and smile, and my heart leaps with hope. I dream of a day when I can explore every corner of my new home, chasing sunlight and pouncing on toys.

I may be small, but I have a big heart, ready to give all my love to someone special. I promise to make you smile with my playful antics and snuggle close to you whenever you need a friend.

So, if you’re looking for a little bundle of fur to make your house feel more like a home, I’m here at the Lakewood Animal Shelter waiting for you. Could you be the one to take me home and make all my dreams come true?

With positive purrs, Nala

I’m Tyson (ID#3482), a lovable 3-year-old stocky character with a heart as big as his playful spirit. I have has been at the shelter too long, and while I have made lots of friends here, I  dream of a home where I can run, play, and finally relax with a family of my own. I am full of energy, always ready to chase a ball or play tug-of-war, and my tail wags non-stop when I am around people. Despite my tough appearance, I am a gentle soul who craves affection and loves to cuddle after a long day of fun. I sit waiting patiently for someone to see past the stereotypes and recognize the loyal, joyful companion I am. Could you be the one to give me the loving home I deserve?  

"Why Is Democracy Important To Preserve?"

As a citizen of the United States, I recognize how easy it is to take democracy for granted. I never think twice about how lucky we are to have the opportunity to give our say in issues. My parents growing up were not this lucky. They grew up in Albania during the communist regime. I remember inquiring about what it was like to live in a communist country, even before I learned what a communist country even was. They told me about silly rules that I would've never thought of, like that all boys had to keep their hair cut short. There were some rules that were more unnerving, such as no speaking ill of the government or the dictator. I was told that the voting process was warped—everyone had to vote for the incumbent dictator, otherwise they would be sent to jail.

The stark contrast between a democratic country like America and a communist country like Albania in the 1950s and 60s is appalling to think about, even decades later. While Americans experienced an economic boom under Ike, Albanians were forced to only eat rations—and their words. As Americans, we are endowed unalienable rights to free speech and the right to vote. However, the idea of a “right” is intangible. These entitlements were characterized by the founding fathers to be given to us from birth, they are natural rights. These rights, though it goes against the meaning of a right, can be taken away. Though it's not morally correct, there are times when a country can capsize. It is so important for democracy to be preserved and even strengthened in order to ward off corrupt coercion and political repression that can so easily swallow it whole.

There are a myriad of affairs in which the power of democracy has benefited the common good of the people. For example, abortion. Putting this matter in the hands of the people who are directly affected by it, the citizens, was the correct way to deal with this issue. Democracy is important because it includes a plethora of voices that would go unheard with a dictator. Though no candidate is perfect, the ability to have a say in who you want as president is gigantic. Putting this power into the hands of the people is what generates new leaders with a zest for politics and what it could mean for their constituents.

The Lakewood City Schools has convened a 50-person Elementary Planning Task Force to explore what is the optimal use and maintenance of the District's elementary facilities. This group, which is scheduled to meet four times this fall, will provide strategic recommendations to Superintendent Niedzwiecki, focusing on efficiently using our elementary school buildings, especially where excess capacity exists.

The task force's responsibilities include analyzing the financial, educational, and logistical impacts of potential changes to the way our current elementary buildings are used, engaging the community in these decisions, and exploring opportunities to expand early childhood education and community programs. Its goal is to align facility use with the District's mission in a financially responsible and sustainable manner.

This task force is the second such group that is part of a comprehensive examination by the District of all of its facilities that began in spring 2023 with the Facilities Study Task Force. Information on that task force and meeting information and updates regarding the Elementary Planning Task Force can be found on the District's website at www.lakewoodcityschools.org. Community members are encouraged to check back to the page for the latest news, including agendas, meeting summaries and recommendations or decisions made by the task force.

Zach, Judge Neff, Josh

Although the summer is winding down and students have resumed classes, the Lakewood Court was incredibly fortunate to benefit from employing two dependable and dedicated summer college students. Both young men live in our wonderful Lakewood community with their families.

Joshua Ferry wins the trifecta award for committing the past three summers to working at the court. He is not shy about taking on important tasks that are central to court operations. Josh has been a true asset to us all at the court and we miss him already. We wish Josh a successful senior year at Cleveland State University.

     Zachary Simmons joined the court for the first time this summer. Just like a champ, he dove right into some of the not so desirable, yet very significant work necessary for the court. Zach fit right into the Clerk’s Office as if he always was a full-time court employee. Everyone enjoyed Zach’s personality, conversation and work efforts. We wish Zach the very best as he embarks upon his junior year at the Ohio State University.    

     I am beyond pleased to inform the community that Lakewood Municipal Court was once again presented with another top grant award. The Supreme Court of Ohio awarded the court $150,000 from the Technology Grant Fund pursuant to the Ohio Courts Technology Initiative. The grant process was very competitive, and I am grateful the Ohio Supreme Court realized our need.

Did you know that in Ohio, students who have never been chronically absent are 6.7 times more likely to read on grade level by the end of third grade and nine times more likely to graduate from high school on time? Those stats are just some of the reasons why the Lakewood City Schools has partnered with the Cleveland Browns this school year to be part of their Stay In the Game attendance program. 

The Stay in the Game network was designed to support improved student attendance. It launched in 2019 with the leadership of the Cleveland Browns Foundation, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce and Harvard’s Proving Ground. The program provides partner districts with: 

• A campaign playbook to customize district and school campaigns
• Browns-themed attendance campaign materials to use in our schools and community
• Incentives and activities to reward improved attendance
• Peer learning opportunities to meaningfully impact attendance

Film: "The Postman Always Rings Twice" (1946)  

Sunday, September 8, 2024 at2:00 p.m. (93 minutes)  

Main Library Auditorium                                                                                 

Our film noir matinee stars Lana Turner and John Garfield in a dramatic love triangle that ends in disaster.   

Lakewood Chapter of the League of Women Voters:

Join Lee Jordan and Dean Jackson as they discuss Disinformation, A.I. and Elections: How to Seperate Fact from Fiction in 2024 on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 7:00 p.m.

Presentation: Discovering Your Home’s Hidden Story by Suzanne Seifert 

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium 

Discover how and where to uncover some of your home’s hidden stories. Presenter Suzanne Seifert is the founder of House Ancestry, a micro business devoted to researching and telling the story of a property and the community around it.  

Film: "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" (2000) 

Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. (106 minutes) 

The Lakewood City Schools and the Lakewood Rangers Education Foundation (LREF) have been awarded a $30,000 grant from Howmet Aerospace Foundation that will be dedicated to purchasing 3D printers for our seven elementary STEM classrooms. This is the fourth Howmet grant LREF has received to benefit Lakewood students.

The printers are needed for the District’s "Enhancing STEM Education through 3D Printing in Elementary Schools" project where teachers will be integrating 3D printing technology into the STEM curriculum at all seven elementary schools. Beginning in January 2025, the project will leverage 3D printing to enhance student engagement, foster creativity and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Each building will receive two printers.

“Once again this year, we are humbled and appreciative of the continuing support of STEM education for students in the Lakewood Schools. Our partnership with the Howmet Foundation continues to be an outstanding resource for high level STEM education for Lakewood students,” said LREF Executive Director Terri Richards.

Howmet Aerospace Foundation invests in STEM and technical education as part of its efforts to educate and inspire tomorrow's scientists, engineers and technical experts. The Howmet Foundation is the independently endowed charitable arm of Howmet Aerospace.

Originally from Gettysburg, PA, Deborah Kuhn and her husband, Michael Gibble, moved to Lakewood in 2014. Michael, a proud alum of St. Edward High School, had deep ties to the area. He converted Deborah, a former Pittsburgh Steelers fan to become a passionate Browns fan. After moving, Deborah joined activities at the Lakewood Senior Center at the former Madison Avenue location, especially enjoying Tai Chi.

Following Michael’s passing in 2021, Deborah sought community and social connections at Cove. She began volunteering with the Division of Aging in July 2022, where she enjoys her role at the front desk, assisting visitors, answering questions, and managing the lunch reservations.

A rock and roll enthusiast, Deborah has recently had a streak of good luck, winning tickets to see John Waite, Styx, and Foreigner at Blossom Music Center, and Cheap Trick, Journey, and Def Leppard at Progressive Field. She’s been a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum since 2015.

Deborah loves Tai Chi, yoga, monthly trips, and dances at Cove, including the Leap Day Dance in February and the upcoming Luau on September 12. She volunteers at the front desk on Thursday mornings—stop by and say hello to this enthusiastic volunteer and rock fan!

A huge shoutout to our amazing community members and students who on Monday sorted thousands of school supplies donated by our generous community and local businesses! Thanks to your hard work and dedication, our students most in need will have the tools to start their school year off strong.

Special thanks to Supplies 4 Success organizer Karen Lee for her tireless work on behalf of our students!

Together, we're making a difference and helping every student succeed!

Just Baby 'N Me 

For You and Your Birth to 24-Month-Old Baby 

Just Baby 'N Me is a lap-sit story time ideal for babies from birth through early walkers. The focus is on rhymes, songs, finger plays and exploring short books together. No registration is required.   

September 9- October 31, 2024 

Main Library-  

Mondays: 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.  

Wednesdays: 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.  

Thursdays: 10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. 

Madison Branch-  

Thursdays: 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 

Pre-school Story Time 

For You and Your 2 to 5-Year-Old Pre-schooler. Children and their parents will enjoy stories, movement and songs for thirty fun filled minutes. The focus is on early literacy skills. No registration is required. 

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) invites the Lakewood community to an in-person public meeting on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held at Cove Community Center at 12525 Lake Avenue in Lakewood.

HLF’s annual community meeting offers an opportunity to community members to learn about HLF’s grantmaking, collaborations, and community engagement work over the past year. Childcare is available onsite with advanced registration.

This year's community meeting guest speaker is April Walker, Founder of Philanthropy for the People. HLF recently worked with April on an equitable grantmaking framework that will direct HLF's future work.

At the Community Meeting, April will discuss the intersection of equity and philanthropy and provide insights into the resources and support the non-profit sector needs to serve those most impacted by systemic “isms.”

There will be time for discussion and questions. There is no charge to attend the meeting. For more information and to register, visit HLF’s website at www.healthylakewoodfoundation.org.

Correction: The rescheduled Westerly Senior Health and Wellness Fair will take place Thursday (not Wednesday, which was in the newsprint version of the current issue.) Our apologies for any inconvenience caused. 

The Annual Westerly Apartments Senior Health & Wellness Fair originally scheduled for August 14 had to be postponed due to last month's severe weather and subsequent power outage. It will now take place Thursday, September 12, from 10:00am-2:00pm at 14300 Detroit Avenue within the Westerly/Barton Communities complex. Approximately 40 vendors are expected. Refer to the August 7, 2024 Lakewood Observer for complete details. The initial article is accessible online within the News/Seniors section. 

FOOTBALL

Aug 24: Rangers vs John Marshall
 
Senior QB Avery Holt rushed for two and threw four touchdowns passes, all into tight windows, leading the Lakewood Rangers to a decisive 43-6 win at John Marshall.
 
Sophomore Riley Verderber caught two TD passes, while sophomore Tye Taylor and senior Jaylen Chappell caught one each. Avery, senior Manny Serrano and junior Braedon Greenfield paced a strong running attack, with Avery throwing darts in the red zone to finish 4 drives.

In a great team effort, the defense was equally effective, allowing only one sustained drive while recording a rare safety. Sophomore Tyrese Gatling and junior Jacob Stoll had interceptions. The special teams also did their part--Avery's kickoff's, mostly for touch backs, pinned the Lawyers deep in their end for most of the game.
 
Congratulations to the whole squad, Head Coach Mike Polevacic and his entire staff.

The Lakewood Ranger Marching Band and the Cheer squad were excellent as always, and kept the energy up on a sweltering August afternoon. Ranger Nation also showed up, adorning our side of the stands with splashes of Purple and Gold.

The Rangers hit the road again next Friday (Clearview--7:00 pm). Hope to see you there. Long Live Lakewood.

BOYS' SOCCER

Lakewood Tree Giveaway Program Offers Residents Free Trees for Private Yard Plantings

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Calling Lakewood residents: We need your help in growing our city’s tree canopy coverage by 10 percent in the next 11 years. 

The City of Lakewood and its Tree Advisory and Education Board, in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation Community Canopy Program, seek to partner with YOU on an exciting Tree Giveaway Program whereby residents are eligible to receive a beautiful, native tree for planting at home free-of-charge. Following Lakewood’s successful spring event, an additional 100 trees will be given away this fall.

Online ordering will go live at 9 AM on Tuesday, September 10. In less than 10 minutes, you can reserve your free tree (limit one per resident) by visiting www.arborday.org/lakewoodoh and selecting a shade or ornamental species that fits your yard. Each tree has been grown in 3 gallon-sized containers with heights of 4 to 5 feet, a size which allows for easy transport and planting while still making an immediate impact in your landscape. 

Native species available this fall through the Lakewood Tree Giveaway Program include: 

• Allegheny Serviceberry – A moderately-fast-growing ornamental tree that possesses fragrant white flowers in the spring, edible blueberry-like fruit in the summer, and brilliant fall color. 

• American Hornbeam – A slower-growing woodland understory tree, also known as Musclewood, featuring unique “muscle like” smooth gray bark. In shade it will grow with an open irregular spread but will be compact and almost pyramidal in full sun. Songbirds will utilize the seeds from this tree.

• Common Hackberry – A fast-growing and adaptable canopy tree, suitable for both naturalized areas and street tree plants alike. Features a warty smooth gray bark and “elm like” leaves. The drupe is edible, imparting a fig flavor. 

•  

Positive Steps for single moms in public housing BEGIN with hope and END with financial independence – the end goal is always getting a job, and earning enough money to move out. There are so many programs that currently address opportunities for child care, job training, transportation, and job placement.

But nobody is providing for the FIRST STEP – giving hope by boosting positivity and confidence.  Scented lotions and personal care items address that First Step.

Studies have shown a strong relationship between scent and positive attitude, self-esteem, and confidence. Think about that boost you get from lighting a scented candle. The scent from a lotion follows you, giving you that boost all day. A reminder that someone loves you and supports you.

Join us as we walk to show support for single moms living in public housing, Saturday, September 28 from 10:00am to noon, at Lakewood Park. Meet at the Picnic Shelter and walk the beautiful trails within Lakewood Park: 1, 2, or 3 miles.

There is no registration fee, instead, you are invited to bring donations of name-brand, scented lotions, soaps, candles, etc. A free will offering will also be collected, to be fully directed to the needs of Single Moms.

Items may also be dropped off at the church, 1549 Rosewood, any Sunday in September between 10am-noon.

Please register at gracepresbyterian@att.net

The people have voted and the #1 Most Distinguished Tree in Lakewood for 2024
is … drumroll…

1466 Waterbury Road, a magnificent native oak nominated by Carla Kowalski. This tree had an overwhelming amount of votes cast to win top tree.

2nd place went to 1581 Arthur Avenue, an odd little tree nominated by Sandi Camp.

3rd place went to 1276 Brockley Avenue, a gorgeous Cherry nominated by Kathy Tomazic.

And finally, in 4th place, 17301 Riverway Drive, a beautiful Blue Noble Fir, nominated by Sheila Newton.

Thank you to all who nominated and voted in this year's contest. Thank you to the Tree Advisory and Education Board for giving it their all again this year to inform residents about the need for trees in our community. Please consider planting a tree on your property this fall to increase our canopy and to keep Lakewood a city of trees. To order a tree and have it professionally installed at a discounted price, contact greenleafgroup@hotmail.com to sign up.

One of the many wonderful things about Lakewood is the different options our residents have to keep active across our city. With so many parks, pools, courts, and even an ice rink, Lakewood offers an array of enjoyable opportunities to stay healthy and keep moving. One of our most popular offerings is the Skate Park at Lakewood Park.

The Lakewood Skate Park was the first professionally designed skate park in Northeast Ohio when it opened nearly 20 years ago. (My father, Tom, served as mayor of Lakewood, when it was built, so you can understand my personal affection for this project.) This fall, the skate park will undergo a major $550,000 renovation and upgrade that will add new elements and refresh others. The skate park project is a “design build” effort being led by California Skateparks, the premier expert in the field of skateboarding facilities. 

Last summer, the City’s Planning and Development Department worked with California Skatepark to issue a public survey. That effort generated over 750 responses, which provided key information on priorities for the future of the skate park. California Skateparks used this information to come up with an initial plan that we then presented at a public meeting where dozens attended to provide feedback.

When completed, the project will include upgrades to the existing footprint of the skate park and an expansion that incorporates three additional sections for: 1) a hip and turnaround zone; 2) a rail and flatwork zone; and 3) a flow bowl. Work in the existing footprint will include the addition of a taco as well as overall repair and maintenance work on the current facility. Taken together, this represents a significant upgrade in the overall space and unique features available for skateboarders to enjoy.

“…they stopped a moment, as most of us do, in front of the memorial fountain honouring the boys from Lakewood High who lost their lives in the First World War. Flanked by the flags of school and country and lighted to bring out the colouring of the ceramic murals around the bronze plaque…” (Picture and description from the 1945 LHS yearbook.)

The Good

What if the storm on August 6th happened when school was in session? 

What follows are the questions I asked the district through Christine Gordillo; Communications & PR Coordinator unedited. Thank you, Chris!

Q: If the storm had hit near release time what actions would the district have taken during and then after?

A: We would follow our district protocols for tornado warnings and have staff and students take their places in the safe locations they have practiced going to during the state-required tornado drills each school building holds multiple times a year. A districtwide communication would alert all families that all students are safe and that dismissal has been delayed due to severe weather and that parents will be notified when they are able to pick up their student or when older students are released.

Q: The storm disabled not just electrical power but also cell towers rendering cell phones useless, possibly also disabling the repeater that the district uses for radios. Does the district have other ways to communicate to buildings and to the public? Or are the building staff given permission to take things into their own hands?

A: The LHS two-way radio repeater is powered through an electrical circuit that is supported by the LHS emergency generator. Two-way radios are a viable means of communicating in such a power outage. Building staff would need to ensure radios are charged through an electrical circuit supported by the building’s emergency generator, if outfitted with a generator.

Q: As the days moved on without power and considering the start of school, were the maintenance/custodial/secretarial and other classified staff required to be at work?  Without communications or power, what type of work could be completed? Did all the buildings have generators and were they all working?

Knowso - Pulsating Gore - Sorry State Records - 11 songs - LP, digital

The last we heard from Knowso was a few years back with the “Specialtronics/Green Vision” album. They haven’t changed much since then— at least on the record, it’s still Nathan Ward on everything and Jayson Gerycz on drums and they’re keeping with about the same sound as they’ve had. That said, this albums feels more focused than some of the previous. There’s an overarching anger to this record— some of it feels downright apocalyptic. Or, at the very least, like the soundtrack for late stage capitalism. Or something like that. It kicks off right away with the title track, a classic in their off-time, very syncopated, strange version of punk. Who would’ve thought Knowso would be talking about Kierkegaard? “Do The Work” is one of the songs here, along with “Drink From The Lake” and “Last Of The Punks,” among others, that could easily come across as too goofy or too serious in the hands of a less capable group, but Knowso does a great job with making it not feel like a drag while still making sure you know they mean it. There are some great little touches on this record too, from the almost background lead guitar in “Heavy Hauler” or the vaguely triumphant sounding chiming guitar that comes in a few times during “Last Of The Punks” and juxtaposes very nicely with the decidedly not triumphant lyrics. “Saudi Royalty” is a favorite here— tell me you don’t have “treat me like a baby ‘cause you hate me” going through your head for a while after hearing it. The almost robotic quality that these songs sometimes have works particularly well on the final track, “Where Do You Fit?” which is another favorite here. Overall, while this is a dark record and, as I mentioned earlier, feels at times like a report on the end of the world, it doesn’t leave you feeling hopeless, so it’s balanced very well. It doesn’t really sound like many other punk records that I know but is certainly a punk record in both message and execution. Honestly, it might be my favorite Knowso record yet and there’s some tough competition for that. Also, the LP includes a large insert with lyrics and further Nathan Ward art (my favorite section is “The Roots Grow Thru You”), which should make it an even more essential purchase. 4/5

(sorrystaterecords.bandcamp.com)

Non Bruises - Non Bruises - self-released - 9 songs - CD, cassette, digital

This was sent to me a while back and got misplaced— very sorry it’s taken me this long to get the review out. This band is a sort of supergroup: Mike Uva (a solo artist for the most part), Carol Yachanin (The Tough & Lovely), Andy Stibora (the underrated Ditch), and Elliott Hoffman (whose name I did not recognize but who has played on a couple Scarcity Of Tanks records). Mostly, Non Bruises play a somewhat mellow style of alternative rock— 

As we are all well aware, Lakewood recently experienced an extremely difficult week following the touchdown of multiple tornadoes in Northeast Ohio, including one in our immediate neighboring city, Rocky River. With tens of thousands losing power and cellphone service here – some losing services for close to a week – it was a time of extreme hardship for many. But it was also a time when we saw the true spirit of community in Lakewood in action.

I want to thank and commend so many of you who went out of your way to check on neighbors, offer help and supplies, donate money and goods to our Human Services department, and just generally pitch in during this time of need. The Healthy Lakewood Foundation stepped up with a $10,000 grant to the City which we used to provide gift cards for those of limited means (mainly seniors) to replace spoiled food and Trish Rooney and Lakewood Community Services Center were instrumental in leading an effort for SNAP recipients to apply for replacement benefits. I also must commend the work done by our various departments to swiftly and continuously provide critical public services over the past week.

Our police and fire emergency responders handled crises across the city in real time, but also took on key additional work such as delivering thousands of bottles of water to high-rises and obtaining emergency oxygen tanks for health challenged residents. Our Public Works team members have been doggedly making repairs and cleaning up the storm fallout. And some of our most important efforts have been performed by our Human Services Department staffers who worked many extra hours to keep Cove Community Center open for those in need of cooling, food and beverages, electricity, and WIFI. Our social workers also performed daily check-ins for our seniors who live in the multiple high rises and other senior residences across Lakewood. With additional support from a number of local Lakewood businesses, hundreds of meals were provided to those in need. I am so proud of our frontline city workers for rising to the occasion in a time of great need and working many hours to get the job done. They are true public servants.

Harrison Elementary has earned a Grow Ohio Grant that will provide the school $13,465 to implement a comprehensive program that will educate students about agriculture and food-related career opportunities and give them an opportunity to grow their own food at school.

The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce grant will allow the Harrison community to engage with several local food producer organizations throughout the year:

• Fork Farms - Will provide the school with a curriculum to learn about agriculture and food-related occupations through quarterly school assemblies.

• Ohio City Farm run by Source: Cleveland - Over 50 Harrison English language learners will visit this nonprofit run by refugees to see refugees in our community engaged in running a fully functional farm only miles from where they live. Will also explore using Ohio City Farm produce for USDA school lunches.

• Rust Belt Riders/Tilthe Soil - Will provide soil for the school’s Green Team garden projects.

• Cleveland Botanical Gardens - Green Team and EL students will visit and learn about plants and plant-related occupations.

The grant will also provide the money to buy an indoor hydroponic Flex Farm. The fruits and vegetables grown indoors will be grown specifically for use in the Harrison cafeteria to be served in school lunches, along with the produce grown in the school’s outdoor garden. The fruits and vegetables grown at Harrison will also be used by the culinary program at West Shore Career-Tech for their Ranger Cafe at Lakewood High School. The Harrison Green Team students will have the opportunity to dine at the Ranger Cafe to see how their food was used and have a chance to interact with the chefs, culinary students and the district’s dietitian.

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Since its inception in 1994, Lakewood's H2O (Help to Others) Summer Service Camp has been a beacon of community service and youth empowerment. The camp, part of the broader H2O program established in 1993, offers middle school students a transformative experience focused on volunteer service and community building. Each year, the camp runs four sessions, each spanning eight days, where campers engage in various service activities that include everything from environmental conservation projects to organizing a community-wide Clothing Drive & Super Sale.

The mission of H2O Summer Service Camp is clear: to connect Lakewood youth with opportunities to serve their community, nurture a culture of kindness, and help them develop the skills needed to become engaged citizens. The camp is grounded in the belief that through service, education, and reflection, young people can grow into individuals who are not only aware of the world around them but are also empowered to make meaningful contributions to it.

Throughout the camp, participants work with local organizations such as the Greater Cleveland Foodbank, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and Lakewood Earth and Food. These partnerships allow campers to experience a variety of service sites, where they can learn about and actively contribute to important community efforts. Each day ends with Circle Time, a reflective session where campers and counselors share stories and insights, further reinforcing the camp's theme and mission.

What sets H2O Summer Service Camp apart is its inclusive approach—camp activities do not require specific talents or abilities, making the experience accessible to a wide range of students. The camp's focus on teamwork, relationship-building, and community connection ensures that every participant feels valued and capable of making a difference.

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Nobody, whether cyclist OR motorist, likes to think about being involved in a bike crash. As cyclists, it’s best to have a plan for coping with a bike crash caused by a careless driver. And one thing is for certain for us cyclists – the at-fault driver’s insurance company is NOT on our side!

I created the acronym P.H.O.N.E. to outline important steps to take if you are unfortunately in a bike crash:

P is for POLICE: Call the police and INSIST on a report! NO exceptions! The police report is your “official record” of what happened and where. Always demand a police report!

H is for HEALTH: Seek immediate medical attention if injured. Take pictures of your cuts, abrasions, and injuries.

O is for OBSERVE: Get driver’s and witness’s info/insurance/license plate and where on the road the crash occurred.

N is for NOTIFY: Call an experienced personal injury lawyer, preferably one who also specializes in bike cases; adjusters are insurance pros – hire a pro for yourself! Do not talk with the driver’s insurance adjuster. If the adjuster calls you (usually within 48 hours of a crash), simply obtain the adjuster’s name, company, and claim number and then refer them to your attorney without providing any other information.

E is for EVIDENCE: Photograph the scene and the driver’s license plate along with ALL bodily/bike component/accessory damage – KEEP these items and don’t wash anything OR fix your bike until your separate property damage claim is settled.

As detailed in my book "Cycling Rights: Second Edition" (available at Lakewood Library and on Bike Cleveland’s website), complimentary laminated bike cards with the above information plus favorable bike laws are available at Knabe Law Firm. Feel free to stop in or give us a call and we’ll get one of these “Cycling Arsenal” cards out in the mail to you.

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation is excited to announce that it is accepting online application requests for Neighborhood Opportunity Grants funding starting on Monday August 19, 2024.

Neighborhood Opportunity Grants support hyperlocal community-based projects and initiatives that increase engagement, creativity, and connection. Funding is for projects in Lakewood that:

• Build and support community engagement through activities, events, programming, and/or resource sharing.
• Address one or more social determinants of health.
• Advance our understanding of the needs of community members through innovative and creative projects.

Neighborhood Opportunity Grants funding ranges between $1,000 – $7,500. The grant application, along with additional steps, support and resources, can be found on our website at healthylakewoodfoundation.org. HLF staff support is also available on our site.

Applications will be accepted through Friday, September 20, 2024, with funding awards announced in November. To learn more about this opportunity, please visit HLF’s website.

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When it comes to your home, there’s no better time than now to take proper care of this important investment, and LakewoodAlive is here to help you every step of the way.

LakewoodAlive announces the Fall 2024 schedule for this free educational series intended for homeowners looking to sustain and improve their homes inside and out. This series is designed to help homeowners learn about home maintenance best practices, give them the confidence to tackle necessary repairs and improvements, and focus on sustainability. 

Open to all homeowners in the greater Cleveland area, not just Lakewood residents, this series is intended for:

· Those considering a home DIY project

· Those planning to hire a contractor

· Those simply interested in better understanding how their home works

The second installment of 2024’s home education program features a collection of seven workshops taking place from August through October. Led by industry experts, most of the workshops are in presentation format and those that can be held on location aim to offer a hands-on feel, providing homeowners step-by-step direction on how to complete specific repairs. The goal of this series is helping to remove the guesswork from daunting home repairs and improvement projects, getting the work done correctly the first time, and saving your precious time and money.

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Wasn't too thrilled with the decision to move two of the Library Porch Concerts to Madison Park.

Even less thrilled to squint into the sun while trying to listen to the music.

As I recall, the first Solstice event also had the musicians with their backs to the sun, but someone had the good sense to position them with their backs facing North the next year, and in all succeeding years.

Maybe Madison Park can find a solution by next year. Otherwise keep all concerts at the Library.

I know this will sound odd. Most people have been comparing this moment in history to LBJ's withdrawl speech in '68 but I couldn't help but think of Richard Nixon's resignation speech in '74. The circumstances couldn't be more different but the personal anguish is the same.

I remember reading "Nixon, the Final Days" years ago. I was truly moved reading about Nixon's emotional turmoil and pain when it became clear that his lifelong dream was over. I couldn't imagine what it would be like to have everyone you love and respect telling you it's time to go.

Joe Biden, like Nixon before him, realized that it was that time and that he could count on the love of his family to carry him through the moment. The lesson here is that, regardless of your own personal feelings towards someone, we should all be able to feel compassion for anyone suffering a loss and doing what's right, no matter how they arrived at that moment.

Ron Slezak is a Lakewood citizen.

Church of the Ascension Fourth Annual Car Show

Sunday, August 25th 10:00am to 2:00 pm

(Rain date Sunday, September 8th, 10:00am-2:00pm)

13216 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

Join us to celebrate our 149-year church history with the beauty of historical and collector cars.  Church of the Ascension has served the community of Lakewood since 1875. Last year the car show hosted forty unique and beautiful collector cars!  There was something for everyone to enjoy: one-of-a-kind cars, good food, music and raffle baskets.

One of the premier collectors is Jeff Fisher who grew up on Wyandotte in Lakewood, served in the Vietnam War, and was awarded the Purple Heart.  Jeff, is not a member of the church, but just one of many collectors who joins us each year. 

Jeff shows his 1963 Plymouth Savoy Superstock 426 Max Wedge. It is a tribute to a factory racer which in 1963 you could buy from the dealer.  His car has won numerous awards including the Mopar National Car Show. 

“Don’t get bitter, get better.” Those are the exact words that Mia-Carroll-Greeves' mothers Kelly and Maureen used when her original travel softball team split off and didn’t invite her, and a few others, to come along. “We don’t want you anymore,” were NOT the words spoken to her, but in essence that was the message. Lakewood’s all-time leader in strikeouts and wins, a two-time all-Cuyahoga County pitcher, a Division I signee (Valparaiso), one of the greatest softball players in school history, was in essence left behind. It’s one of the best things that ever happened to her.

Although Mia didn’t need more motivation to work on her game, she got some anyway, using this development to further fuel her desire to become a great pitcher. She ended up on Team Ohio White, a fabulous travel team with a knowledgeable, demanding but supportive coach (Dale Dawson) and hard charging teammates that embraced her. Pardon the cliché, but the slamming of one door did indeed open up a more fitting one, and Mia walked right on through, determined to get better, and without bitterness. It worked.

Those Lakewood High School Records--539 Strikeouts, 1.4 career ERA--didn’t just materialize, but came mostly from the “get better, not bitter” attitude. Mia is not tall, not fast-of-foot (actually, she’s slow) and is not naturally very strong. She made herself stronger through 6 am workouts in North Ridgeville (before Lakewood had its current strength and conditioning program) and worked relentlessly on the craft of pitching. The one athletic gift bestowed upon her was excellent coordination. So, when she and some friends from Roosevelt Elementary School came upon softball (specifically pitching) in our 10U Emerald Necklace League--she found her niche. 

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Thank you to the @Lakewood Chamber of Commerce for another great New Teacher Luncheon on Friday! So wonderful to have the business community embrace and support our new educators every year! It's the Lakewood Way!

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Crews have been working hard this week installing a new scoreboard at the First Federal Lakewood Stadium!

Get ready for a more electrifying game-day experience as we light up the field with enhanced visuals like live and recorded video clips, real�time scores/stats, animations and graphics.

Stay tuned for pictures of the finished product and make sure to come out to show your Ranger Pride at our upcoming home games for football and soccer. 

Due to the construction at the Lakewood Park Skatepark, the following Lakewood Park amenities will be closed shortly after Labor Day:

• Skatepark
• Tennis Courts
• Basketball Courts
• Parking spaces adjacent to basketball courts/skatepark.

Tennis players seeking an alternate place to play can visit the tennis courts at Lakewood High School located next to the stadium, Kaufmann Park, Webb Park, and Merl-Bunts Park.

Alternate basketball court options include Madison Park and Wagar Park.

Please require those running for political offices in Lakewood to indicate their party affiliation if the office would be a party associate political office. It is clear that those of us who are concerned with the gerrymandered Republican dominated legislature in Ohio are looking for alternatives to anyone who may continue that dominance. Many thanks, Tom Fuller

Participants of last year's hunt had so much fun, we're doing it again. This year's contest will run from October 7 through October 21. Keep an eye on the Lakewood Ohio Division of Aging Facebook page and The Lakewood Observer, and watch for flyers around town for how to sign up. We hope to start taking registrations early in September. Then get ready to scour the city to find the features/places around town, provided in photos on October 7. Correctly identify all the locations to be entered into a drawing for prizes. All proceeds benefit the Lakewood Division of Aging.

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Got dogs? Got water? Mix the two together and you have the ingredients for a tail-wagging good time. Join Friends of the Lakewood Dog Park (FLDP) for the 2024 Lakewood Dog Park Swim at Becks Pool, 13201 Madison Avenue, on Monday, August 26, 2024, from 5-7 PM.

You are invited to attend the most anticipated event on Lakewood’s canine calendar. Round up the four-legged family members, grab a couple of towels, a leash, and head for the pool.

Cost for admission to the annual fundraiser, now in its nineteenth year, is $8 for 1 dog and $7 for each additional dog, cash only. Proceeds will benefit FLDP, the all-volunteer organization that works with the City of Lakewood to care for the Lakewood Dog Park and raises funds for dog park improvements.

All dogs must be licensed and up to date on their vaccinations. Owners are responsible for their dog’s safety and are expected to clean up after them. FLDP will bring the pick-up bags, please use them.

All human guests must sign a waiver. You will be in the water faster if you print and fill out the form in advance. On August 26th, turn in the waiver at the desk when you arrive.

Tour Time ‘24 – Lakewood House Tour is back!

The Lakewood Historical Society invites you to discover some of the community’s finest architecture during the Lakewood House Tour: Look Inside Lakewood, Sunday, September 8, from 1:00pm to 6:00pm.

Eight unique properties – seven homes and a house of worship -  provide a glimpse into Lakewood’s past. Celebrate some of the community’s best examples of Craftsman, Tudor, Mid-century and Colonial architecture, each lovingly preserved and mindfully updated to offer contemporary conveniences. Yours to explore: A side-by-side double cleverly converted into a single family dwelling…a Detroit Avenue church that is home to Lakewood’s oldest continuously worshiping congregation...a Tudor with a twist and more. There’s a style for everyone to discover and enjoy.  

Touring opens the door to history, where meticulous craftsmanship and quality materials were uncompromising building standards. The featured homes, all of which were chosen by community nominations, were built between 1908 and 1953. Appreciate the seamless blending of old and new, where modern amenities complement and honor architectural integrity, making these residences true showcases.

Can’t wait to tour? You can start the House Tour weekend a day early at the Patron Party, Saturday, September 7th. The party will be hosted in a home not featured on Sunday’s tour – a Mid-century property with commanding lake views so it’s a great opportunity to visit yet another lovely Lakewood residence. Enjoy fine food while you mingle with friends and plan your next day’s exploration.

Meet The Author- Playhouse Square and the Cleveland Renaissance  

by John Vacha 

August 21, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium  

Shortly after World War I, five theaters were constructed within a two-block radius in downtown Cleveland, which became known collectively as Playhouse Square. By the end of the 1960s, urban decline had darkened four of their marquees with demolition to follow, until a group of like-minded Clevelanders united to save the Square. Its rejuvenation became a catalyst for Cleveland’s larger comeback from postindustrial decline. Join John Vacha as he discusses the first book to give a complete account of this history, from the Square’s 1921 opening to the triumphant reopening in 2022. Books will be available for sale and signing at the event. 

Film- The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946)  

Directed by Tay Garnett  

Sunday, September 8, 2024  

2:00 p.m. (93 minutes)  

Millions of people report to work every day and have no idea what rights they have as employees. If their rights are violated, they may have to find an attorney. Employment Law attorneys focus on many work-related issues such as discrimination, wage theft, workers’ compensation, expungements, unsafe working environments and more.

“Employees have the right to be treated fairly without being discriminated against. That's the most important right,” said Matt Alden, a Senior Attorney in Legal Aid’s Economic Justice Practice Group. “If they're a member of a union, they might have additional rights over and above what nonunion members have.”

Employment discrimination occurs when the employer makes some type of decision about a person’s employment by using unlawful criteria. This could be based on race, sex, religious beliefs, age or disability. It also includes discrimination against veterans and those who have filed for bankruptcy or unemployment. 

Workers who have been discriminated against or have even faced retaliation for speaking out, have options on how they should address it. If an employee is part of a union, they should contact their union representative to determine if a grievance can be filed. They should also look in the employee handbook to learn what the company states about discrimination complaints. An employee, whether union or nonunion, can also file a charge of discrimination on their own with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or the Ohio Civil Rights Commission. 

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Tyson (ID #3482) is still looking for his people! Come on down to Lakewood Animal Shelter and meet this lovable lug, and play with him. You’ll see how he just wants to go home with you! How can you resist this face??

Milk Dud (ID #3502) who was featured last week is still at the Shelter.

Banana (ID #3500) is ready to “split” from the Lakewood Animal Shelter, if you know what we’re sayin’. She is a very sweet and friendly year-old girl. She loves being affectionate and curious about new visitors! Stop by the Shelter and meet Banana!

Come visit these and other animals at the Lakewood Animal Shelter - 1299 Metropark Drive, just past the Dog Park. (216) 529-5020

Animal Shelter Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Saturday, closed on Sunday.

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Susan Hijjawi (pronounced Hih-zhow-ee) is the Senior Services Manager for the Department of Human Services, Division of Aging, at Cove Community Center. With 45 years in social work, Susan, a Michigan native, began her career before formal social work degrees were common. She studied sociology at Western Michigan University, with minors in psychology and gerontology. Susan then pursued a master’s degree in counseling and human services at John Carroll University, further solidifying her commitment to helping others.

Susan has extensive experience in mental health and working with the senior population. Before joining Lakewood’s Department of Human Services, her career has focused on serving a variety of populations. She began her career as the director of social services with a HEAD Start program in three rural Michigan counties.

Today, at Cove, Susan is inspired daily by the energy and enthusiasm of Lakewood’s older adults. “Older adults want to stay active, in-the-know, and out and about in the community,” she says with a smile. This sense of vitality is what makes Cove such a special place—a place where seniors come together to learn, socialize, and thrive.

Looking ahead, Susan and the Department of Human Services staff are excited about the upcoming Luau at Cove, set for Thursday, September 12th. This event promises to be a night of fun, with dinner, a DJ to get everyone dancing, and plenty of opportunities to connect. Tickets are $15, and with a total of 80 available, it’s sure to be a sell-out event. Keep an eye out for more information as the date approaches!

Due to the effects of recent severe weather, the Annual Westerly Apartments Senior Health & Wellness Fair (scheduled for August 14) has been postponed. When a new date is confirmed, it will be shared with the community.

Once again, it is time for the Annual Westerly Apartments Senior Health & Wellness Fair. It will take place August 14 from 10:00am-2:00pm at 14300 Detroit Avenue (within the Westerly complex, also known as Barton Communities).  Admission is free.

This year's theme is "Your Health, Our Priority." Several topics will be addressed being mindful that the 60+ demographic encompasses a large population with diverse needs. There is no one size fits all solution to issues concerning older adults.

That being said, everyone is welcome. Westerly Service Coordinators Debbie Magda-Vukmanic and Melissa Djordjevic, two staffers organizing the Health Fair, feel that a friend or family member of a mature citizen may spot a flyer or have a discussion with a rep that could be of value to someone in their life. The object is to be exposed to, and learn about, the range of resources in the community.

On site screenings for blood pressure, hearing and vision will be available. Entities representing home health care and senior living will be on hand. Beyond the sector of wellness, The League of Women Voters, Legal Aid Society and JKL Tours are scheduled as well. The lineup includes approximately 40+ participants.

There will be printed materials and other giveaways from multiple vendors. Raffles will be held at the end.

Come check out the Westerly Senior Health & Wellness Fair. A conversation with someone there could make a difference.

Arrive at the Health Fair via the Barton Center entrance in the back of the Westerly complex. You may pull in from Detroit (next to retailer Cotton) or from Marlowe just south of the railroad tracks. Some parking spaces will be available at Lakewood Presbyterian Church (nearby at corner of Detroit & Marlowe) or on side streets. The RTA 26 bus line also has nearby stops.

Believe it or not, it’s that special time of year again. Back to School shopping! While most of you probably remember the excitement of picking out new school supplies, there is just something about the possibilities of a brand-new notebook and a sharpened pencil, many of our local students’ families are unable to afford even the most basic of school supplies. 

That is where our amazing community comes in: Supplies 4 Success (a committee of the Lakewood Area Collaborative and a member group of The Lakewood Foundation) has joined with H20, area business and local churches summer of collecting school supplies. Our combined group aims to support the families and students who find themselves unable to purchase school supplies.

This year we need your support again to make sure each student has the tools they need for academic success – from crayons to binders! We firmly believe all students should have the opportunity to learn regardless of need. It has been proven that a student starting their school year off with all of the tools they need will have a better chance at a successful academic year. It is far too easy for these students to fall in-between the cracks and drop off the academic track.

It is our goal to have a brand new supply for any student that expresses a need. We do accept gently used supplies that our teachers can use in their classrooms.

Supplies 4 Success will collect supplies until Sunday, August 18th. Items can be dropped off at various locations throughout the city. We are happy to do the shopping for you! A monetary donation can be made through The Lakewood Foundation (with S4S in the subject line), 12525 Lake Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107 or through the Lakewood Foundation page. Please contact us at lkwdschoolsupplies@gmail.com for questions regarding the collection or additional information on how to help.

Items needed:

• 3 Ring Binders (1” and 1 ½”)
• Calculators (TI-30x)

As a dedicated resident of Lakewood, Ohio, and an experienced practicing lawyer, I am committed to serving our community in the Ohio State House. With this background, I announce my candidacy for Ohio State Representative in District 13.

With a wealth of legal expertise and a deep understanding of the issues facing our district, I am particularly focused on seeking relief from the burden of high property taxes on our senior community. As a State Representative candidate for Ohio's 13th District, I am passionate about championing policies that support economic growth, enhance public education, and ensure the well-being of all residents.

I grew up in Mansfield, Ohio, a small town about an hour south of Cleveland. I attended Madison Schools in Mansfield and, after graduation, attended Ohio University in 1995, receiving a bachelor’s degree in political science. I continued my studies at the University of Akron School of Law and moved to the Cleveland area to begin my law career.

Following years of practice with several law firms, I decided to venture out on my own, establishing Robert E. Dintaman Esq LLC in 2004. As a solo general practitioner, I have enjoyed the diversity of cases I have worked on and the opportunity to work closely with individuals on their unique legal challenges. Since moving to Lakewood in 2009, I have continued to operate my law firm, becoming a permanent and active member of the community.

The experience of working one-on-one with individuals to solve their problems inspired me to run for Ohio State Representative in District 13. I believe that public service is about getting out into the district, meeting people one-on-one, and collaborating to move our community forward. As a resident of Lakewood for over a decade, I cherish the community and the interactions with my neighbors and friends. This deep connection has driven me to put my best foot forward and represent the community in the Ohio State House.

Are you worried that deep fakes, artificial intelligence and disinformation may be influencing voter decisions? Are you concerned about election integrity and wonder if there may be an element of truth in the claims of election fraud? How are you feeling about the state of democracy here in the US and globally?

Dean Jackson, a researcher specializing in democracy, media, and technology, and a former investigative analyst with the January 6th Committee, and Lee Jordan, respected news anchor and award-winning journalist, will lead a conversation on these and other topics to get you informed and prepared on September 10, 2024 at 7:00 pm at the Lakewood Public Library, 15425 Detroit Ave.

Brought to you by the Lakewood Chapter of the League of Women Voters in partnership with the Lakewood Public Library.

Venera Foti is  a co-chair of the League of Women Voters Lakewood chapter, in charge of Programming. Many of our events are open to the community and we would like to share details.

Legal Aid’s annual summer fundraiser, Jam for Justice, returns on Wednesday, August 21 at The Beachland Ballroom & Tavern in the Waterloo Arts District of Cleveland. The event will include a staggered schedule of bands on two stages for non-stop fun!  
 
Doors will open for the August 21 show at 5:00 PM, with the first band taking the stage at 5:20 PM. Event emcees Stephanie Haney (WKYC), DJ Brad Wolfe (Brad Wolfe Law), & Delanté Spencer Thomas (President, Norman S. Minor Bar Association) will keep the party going throughout the evening.  
 
Participating bands for 2024 include: Razing the Bar; Faith & Whiskey; Hayden Gilbert and The Ruckus; K.G. Mojo; Luke Lindberg & The Hung Jury; The No Name Band; Out of Order; State Road; Six Sometimes Seven; and new for 2024, The Tortfeasors. These bands are made up of local bench and bar leaders – attorneys, judges, law faculty, and law students who moonlight as musicians and donate their talents to raise money for Legal Aid.  
  
The 2024 band schedule includes ten bands on two stages:   

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Cruelster - Lost Inside My Mind In Another State Of Mind: The Singles Collection - Drunken Sailor Records - 25 songs - LP, digital

I am a noted Cruelster fan and have been reviewing their works (their art, some might say, though don’t confuse that with band member Nathan “Piss” Ward's actual visual art which I have also written about here) in these pages for a long time— almost ten years! I remember when many of the releases compiled here originally came out. I’m now older than these guys were when I met them. Anyway, hearing this stuff puts me right back to a certain time in my life when…wait, this isn’t about me. Cruelster are one of the most original punk bands of the last ten (maybe even twenty) years and I’ll stand up on Hank Wood’s coffee table in my Docs and say that. Their influence cannot be overstated— not just in the Cleveland music scene, but I think to the world of music in general. So what’s on this record? Well, as you might imagine, it’s everything they’ve released that is not on one of the albums proper (“Potatoe Boys” and “Riot Boys”)—it includes a rare compilation appearance, various splits and long-gone tapes, and even the Perverts Again Total Punk 7”. Don’t call it egg punk— not that I’ve ever really been sure what that means, but it’s not that. But it is punk of a weirder variety, music where you can really tell that it was made for the people in the band and maybe some of their friends to enjoy and if anyone else happened to care, then great. That’s where the best art comes from, they say. This is an essential release even if you’ve followed the whole Cruelster journey and have all these songs elsewhere already (I’m not sure that the final track, “Fairview” (recorded when they were 13 or 14! What is that called? Juvenilia? I think that’s right), has even been officially released before this, so you probably don’t) because included are very informative and entertaining liner notes. I laughed, I cried. I learned a lot! (I’ve never realized, for example, that “Banker’s Brunch” was reused for the Knowso song “Look At The Chart” but now I totally hear it). And hey, I did point out in my review of “Riot Boys” that it wasn’t Yesyes singing on “American Boots For Who?” so I would like that to be added to the official record if they ever happen to redo these liner notes. Is every song on here perfect? No, and I probably don’t need to ever hear “Let’s Make Noise (In The Bathroom)” again, but this is an important document and there’s really nothing more that can be said. 4.5/5

(drunkensailorrecords.bandcamp.com)

McCarthy and the Red Menace - Disown The Night - Blueberry Donut Recordings - 18 songs - CD, cassette, digital

It’s been a while since we got something new from McCarthy and the Red Menace— I think it might’ve been 2016. That is to say, I can’t fully remember what their last record sounded like, but this is very surf-influenced indie rock. There are even a few instrumentals (“Faded Cove” and “Sunray vs. the Runt”) if that’s your bag. Some tracks also are particularly indebted to a ‘60s pop and/or girl group, like “Bad Wave Of Love” and 

Throughout recent years, Americans have experienced a variety of threats to our democracy. The fabric of our country is woven through threads of freedom and justice, and without our democracy, we would simply cease to be. The United States was founded under the idea that we all have individual rights that are worth protecting, and we all have individual voices that are worth hearing. Democracy promotes our individuality, allowing us to have our own say in how the government operates, making it critically important to preserve. 

About 75% of Americans (regardless of political party) believe our democracy is in danger. This threat has left Americans spiraling, fearing that their voices may no longer be heard. Our democracy allows us to share our voices, expand on new ideas, and progress forwards into broader horizons. We get to see the changes we want made in our own country by using our own voices. We can directly vote on the future of our nation instead of having to convince higher-ups to consider our ideas. A nation without the freedom of democracy is a nation divided and controlled. Many Americans fear losing our democracy not only because the balance of our country depends upon it, but also because their individuality depends on it as well. Without democracy, we all become worker bees providing for a system that will not provide for us. As long as our democracy is in place, the government will exist to serve the people, as it should be. 

When we think of progression, we often think of linear movement. However, democracy expands the idea of progression, allowing us to move in every direction all at once. Every voice can be heard and considered, meaning a multitude of changes that will benefit a multitude of different groups can be made all at the same time. We don’t have to challenge or progress one worldview at a time, we can benefit everyone despite potential disagreements. Without democracy, the ideas within our government become limited. America is a diverse nation, meaning that there are a variety of different identities that need to be represented. It would be impossible to have one leader who could accurately represent every single member of our society, meaning it is up to us to represent ourselves. 

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Our Community Recreation and Education Department goes into overdrive in the summer with an abundance of opportunities for our students while they are on summer break. One example is Camp-Can-Do, an eight-week camp for youth with special needs ages 5 to 13. Campers engage in a variety of positive and socially appropriate endeavors and fun summer activities, like a foam party! Campers participate in adapted activities like art, music, reading, language skills, speech, socialization, swimming, field trips and more. Watching our Rec staff help Camp-Can-Doers participate in the many activities warms one's heart!

In a dense city with diverse needs, it is essential to have an excellent team of directors and leaders within our departments at City Hall. Recently, the City of Lakewood was excited to welcome three more talented members to our team who are passionate about public service.

In July, Renee Mahoney took the reins as our new Finance Director following the recent retirement of Peter Rancatore, who finished a long and distinguished public sector career. Director Mahoney comes to the Lakewood City Hall with her own impressive resume that includes over thirty years in government finance leadership positions. Her specific experience is highly relevant to Lakewood, with her previously serving an inner ring suburb – Assistant Finance Director of Shaker Heights – and also with our west side communities – as Director of Finance for the City of Bay Village and in her additional role as Fiscal Officer for the Westshore Council of Governments. An added benefit for Director Mahoney will be her new 5-minute commute – she’s a proud and long-time Lakewood resident.

In June, we were also thrilled to welcome Angela Byington as our new Director of Planning and Development, as Shawn Leininger departed to take the assistant city manager position in Hilton Head, South Carolina. With decades of experience in government working in both planning and development, Director Byington was a great find for Lakewood. Our approach is a bit different than other cities in that Lakewood combines the economic and community development work and the planning work in a single department. Other municipalities typically split this work among multiple directors and departments, but Director Byington’s background allows Lakewood to keep these roles unified. She comes to our city directly from her role as Community Development Director at Perkins, Ohio, and previously served in director positions in planning and development for the City of Sandusky and the City of Elyria prior to that.

The categories for this years contest are the following:

The Most Magnificent Tree - Overall Grandeur, be it size or beauty.
The Most Beautiful Conifer - Cone bearing, chiefly evergreens.
The Oddest, Most Unusual Tree - Wow, what an odd tree, but oh so cool!
The Most Beautiful Native Tree - Natives provide food for our native pollinators and wildlife. They are uniquely adapted to our environment. Get a tree guide to see what's native in our area.

There are three easy ways to enter and nominate a tree.

1) EMAIL - Send the address and photo of the tree with category to: production@lakewoodobserver.com

2) INTERNET - Go to LO’s front page “Question of the Day,” leave up to 3 addresses along with their contest category. We will go out and photograph the trees for you.

3)  MAIL - Send addresses with category to: Lakewood Observer/TAEB Tree Contest, PO Box 770203, Lakewood, OH 44107 (again, we will happily go out and photograph the tree) Don't forget to include your name as the nominator!

Nominations may be submitted through August 16, 2024. *Winners from prior years may be nominated but will not be eligible to win. Voting will start on August 21st, more about that in the next issue.

Prizes have been donated by these generous Lakewood businesses: Lakewood Garden Center, India Garden, Carabel Beauty Salon, and Woodstock BBQ. If your business would like to take part, contact us at: production@lakewoodobserver.com

The Good and The Better: Two years ago, a project was started to create an area that would honour all Lakewood High School alumni that served or are serving in our armed forces. It was one of my greatest regrets about retiring when I did, that I couldn’t see the completion of this project. I did enjoy being on the ground level doing a great deal of research from flag protocols, talking to Vets and researching history right here at LHS. I was happy that Superintendent Niedzwiecki approved my idea of the home for this project by choosing the location in The Civic lobby. 

The original memorial was the Peace Fountain, located in between the grand staircase sections, memorializing the Great War with a bronze plaque containing the names of the fallen encased in a dramatic sculpture and a fountain anchored by a lion’s head. After WW2, two additional plaques were added on either side in memory of those fallen heroes. After the Korean conflict one more plaque was added. Later the fountain was dismantled to make way for one of many construction projects and the plaques were relocated to the hallway shared by the distinguished alumni. The plaque honouring the veterans of the Vietman conflict was added and an additional plaque was made available to add the names of those may have been omitted and other fallen heroes while in service to their country. Before the Phase 3 construction of LHS, everything was gathered and safely put in storage by the Lakewood Ranger Education Foundation (LREF).

This fall the new area for all alumni that have served will be dedicated, finding its new and hopefully a most honoured, permanent home. In addition to the restored plaques there will be militaria displayed. There is also an interactive screen to look up our alum and find each veteran’s history of service. One of the most amazing treasures in the LREF collection is a book kept by the students of LHS during WW2 that journals each classmate’s deployments during the war, their battles fought and where they fell or when they returned home. It will be digitized for viewing and the actual book will be kept under glass in a display case to maintain its incredible condition. As you view the book, the image of classmates, prom dates and siblings entering the details of each soldier’s service and their sacrifices in real time should not be lost on us today. 

About 40 people attended the Ward 3 Council Community Conversation at the Barton Center on July 17th with Council President Sarah Kepple, Ward 4 Councilwoman Cindy Marx, and Ward 3 Councilwoman Cindy Strebig. (pictured left to right)

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Hi Neighbors,

We may be down one Councilmember right now, but we’re not out! There’s a lot coming up with Council, and numerous ways for you to participate.

Please join us for the Ward 4 Council Community Conversation on Tuesday, August 20th at the Madison Branch of Lakewood Public Library at 6pm. Ward 4 Councilwoman Cindy Marx, and my fellow at-large council members and I look forward to sharing updates about things happening in Ward 4, answering your questions, and hearing your ideas and concerns. 

The deadline to apply for the Ward 2 Council vacancy is August 23rd. To qualify for consideration, an applicant must be a resident of Ward 2, a registered voter of the city and a resident of the city for at least one year. Interested Ward 2 residents, please submit a cover letter and resume in PDF format to the Clerk of Council at council@lakewoodoh.gov. 

Council will hold public, recorded interviews for the Ward 2 position at the Tuesday, September 3rd Committee of the Whole meeting at City Hall. The meeting may begin as early as 5:30pm and will be contingent on the number of interviewees. I anticipate that the selected candidate will be officially appointed and sworn-in at the Monday, September 16th regular meeting of council at 7:30pm.

Also on September 16, Council will continue review of the Charter Review Commission’s report at the Committee of the Whole meeting at 6:30pm. For the past six months the citizen volunteers serving on the commission have been diligently working their way through the Charter, researching, discussing, and debating potential amendments. It has been heartening to watch these dedicated Lakewoodites contribute their time and considerable talents in a civil, democratic process. Please join us for the meeting, watch online, and share your thoughts via public comment or email. Your feedback can help Council decide whether to send any or all of the proposed recommendations to the voters for ratification in a future election. 

Meet the Author - "The Vatican Cookbooks-Heavenly Cuisine and Legendary Stories" by Thomas Kelly 

Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium 

The Vatican Cookbook takes us behind the scenes of the Vatican and gives us a seat at the illustrious table where fine meals have been served for centuries. Join co-author Thomas Kelly as he describes the creation of this number one bestseller and reads highlights from the book. Born and raised in Lakewood, Thomas Kelly is an author and screenwriter, TV writer, radio host, publisher, corporate executive and civic activist.  

Meet The Author - "Playhouse Square and the Cleveland Renaissance"  by John Vacha 

August 21, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium  

Shortly after World War I, five theaters were constructed within a two-block radius in downtown Cleveland, which became known collectively as Playhouse Square. By the end of the 1960s, urban decline had darkened four of their marquees with demolition to follow, until a group of like-minded Clevelanders united to save the Square. Its rejuvenation became a catalyst for Cleveland’s larger comeback from postindustrial decline. Join John Vacha as he discusses the first book to give a complete account of this history, from the Square’s 1921 opening to the triumphant reopening in 2022. Books will be available for sale and signing at the event. 

Knit & Lit Book Club: Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium 

August 20, 2024: "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett 

At the July 15th meeting of Lakewood City Council, the following awardees were recognized for their participation in this year's 4th of July Parade. 

Most Spirited: Just a Numb3r Dance Crew

Best Bicycle: Bike Lakewood

Best Original Entry: Stem Soap

Best Float: Beck Center for the Arts

Best Color Guard: Akron/Cleveland John Towle MOH 82nd Airborne Association

The Akron/Cleveland John Towle MOH 82nd Airborne Association also surprised city leaders with a certificate and challenge coin in appreciation for the patriotism and support of veterans shown by Lakewood citizens at the parade!

ARIES: Oh, it’s hot in Ram’s corner this month, the Sun is blazing down on your libido. Jupiter is lighting up the neighborhood. Check out the latest Java spot with Fire in your eyes.

TAURUS: Time for the Bull to come out of the Bull Pen & head to the bank. Jupiter’s putting greenbacks in that vault faster than you can move, then spend time on the homefront.

GEMINI: Front and center for the Twins this month. You’ve got the gift of gab. Double your pleasure, double your fun, network at the plethora of eclectic bookstores in town.

CANCER: Keep your lips zipped on where you have that treasure box hidden. The Santa Claus of the Zodiac is working “behind the scenes” putting all dollar signs in the bank.

LEO: Lion/Lioness, shine on, you own the jungle. Invite all the rabbits, the birds, the squirrels…that’s right invite all your friends, let that jungle rock and roll. You own it!

VIRGO: It’s time for you to dot your I’s and cross your T’s, Jupiter is in your house of careers. The Sun is shining behind the scenes in the 12th house. Seal those lips shut!

A new sustainable media company based in Ohio City is gaining momentum. One Planet Media, LLC, better known as 1PM, is a start-up company offering a free streaming TV channel called Eartho TV, where audiences can watch documentary films and shows about helping preserve our planet. You can find a list of places the channel is available at www.oneplanetmedia.com. 

Founder and CEO Mark Inglis said the company’s mission is to empower audiences with information about climate change, sustainability, environmental equality, circular economies, and other themes by using engaging content to inspire positive change. 

1PM also produces an original podcast called "All Things Green" that is hosted by a local grassroots environmental activist Anton Kreiger. Twice a month, Anton interviews guests working towards a more sustainable and healthy future. 

Topics covered include urban farming with Justin Husher and environmental justice with Angela Yeager (both Lakewood residents) among many others. The podcast now has over 50 episodes available to listen to on multiple platforms, including YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. 

If you’d like to learn more, you can find 1PM on LinkedIn and Instagram @oneplanetmedia. 

All Things Green is on TikTok @atgshow. 

If you would like to get involved, you can email Mark Inglis: mark@oneplanetmedia.com

Sarah Bene is a Lakewood resident.