PhotoBlogs by Ivor Karabatkovic

Taylor Swift wows a sold out Quicken Loans Arena (20 Photos)

Taylor Swift brought her "Speak Now World Tour" to Quicken Loans Arena on Saturday night, and 15,000 screaming fans joined her for a night filled with surprises.


The 21-year-old superstar was backed by a eight-piece band, eight dancers trained to perform anything from hip-hop to ballet, and three trapeze artists that made fans hold their breath. Yet it was Taylor's show, and she had command of the stage from the moment the Victorian theatre-style courtains opened.


Opening with two songs from her new album, Speak Now, Taylor sent the crowd into a singing and screaming frenzy. Pyro wowed younger fans, while parents snapped photos. The 8:30 p.m. start time is a bit early for most headliners, but the parents had to appreciate getting their kids home before midnight. "Story of Us" had the band, dancers, and crowd fully engaged, while "Mean" turned into a ballad for anyone who's ever been picked on. A quick costume and set change, and Taylor showed her piano playing abilities with a moving randition of "Back to December".


Quick set and costume changes were a common thing Saturday night. There were nine costume changes in total, and sets included everything from a church setting during "Speak Now", three large church bells that rung during "Haunted", and a floating balcony in which Taylor soared over the crowd and around the arena during "Love Story". A seperate stage in the back of the arena provided a great view for fans who were further away from the main stage. Taylor navigated through the crowd, giving hugs and bracelets to fans of all ages along the way to and from the main stage.


It was on the second stage that Taylor showed her musical talents and ability to connect with fans through her music.


"Songwriting is something I need to do", Swift explained as she held a ukelele. "It's much more than what I love to do now."


She didn't chat too much with the crowd, but the interaction and energy from the fans was definitely there. Swift let her music do most of the talking for her, only adding anecdotal facts, song inspirations and the occasional compliment to the rowdy fans.


Short covers of Macy Gray's "I Try", as well as "My Wish" by Columbus natives Rascal Flatts led into her hit "You Belong With Me". Thanks to Taylor's Ukelele-playing, it was refreshingly light and uplifting. It was also the fourth instrument she skillfully played up to that point. Pyrotechnics, fog machines and Taylor's vocals were spot-on for the moodier portion of the show, which featured "Dear John", "Enchanted" and "Haunted".


"Long Live" included a shout-out to Cleveland native Paul Sidoti, who plays guitar in Taylor's band. "[Paul] is very proud of where he comes from", Taylor said, "and you should be very proud of him for being from here." Sidoti received a very warm welcome from the sold out arena, and even wore a Browns jersey for the encore. The video screen projected scenes from her first headlining tour, the highly-grossing Fearless Tour.


The floating balcony during "Love Story" sent Taylor up in the air and over the crowd on zip lines, eye-level with the club seating in the Q. Just one of many surprises in store at a Taylor Swift concert. While her theatrical setup pushes the envelope for touring country artist, she stayed true to her Nashville roots by never losing the message of her songs. Something tells me that 15,000 singing fans, or friends, as she calls them, would remind her if she happened to get lost in the moment. Even though audio troubles towards the end had some fans baffled, her voice was spot on. Full of energy, the 21-year-old singer showed off her musical talents and proved to any doubters that she is the real deal, and is here to stay for a long time.


Setlist: Sparks Fly, Mine, Story of Us, Our Song, Mean, Back To December, Better Than Revenge, Speak Now, Fearless, Last Kiss, You Belong With Me, Dear John, Enchanted, Haunted, Long Live. Encore: Fifteen, Love Story.

Carrie Underwood's Play On Tour in Cleveland, November 1, 2010 (14 Photos)
Country mega-star Carrie Underwood brought her Play On Tour, and a ton of fans ready to have a good time, to Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center on Monday. The new leg of the tour started back in September and will continue through December 19, giving Carrie over 100 live shows in 2010.

The most successful American Idol winner to date showed why she holds that crown in Cleveland. No sign of fatigue or boredom from her, as she belted out note after note, often wow-ing the fans in attendance.

The tour features an elaborate set with plenty of surprises. Rising platforms, costume changes, a flying pickup truck, it's all part of the show. It would be easy for a small town girl like Carrie to get lost on a big stage in an arena, but she had the stage presence of a superstar. It helps that she's been doing this show all year long, because set ran like a well-oiled machine.

Underwood took the stage to "Cowboy Casanova," and her two hour set of 19 songs was a well-balanced weave of old and new material. Powerful renditions of "Just a Dream" and "So Small" probably gave every person goosebumps, while arena-style anthems like "Undo it", "Last Name" and "Before He Cheats" filled the arena with powerful guitar riffs and pitch-perfect singing.

Carrie is the real deal, and she continues to prove that year after year. The accolades and trophies are well-deserved, but it his her live show that will convince any music fan. The show was exceptional, and we can't wait what the future holds for this superstar.
Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers at Blossom Music Center (12 Photos)

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers performed a rescheduled show on Wednesday, August 31 at Blossom Music Center. Petty's setlists from the 2010 Mojo tour have been spontaneous, and Wednesday's setlist lived up to expectations. The band weaved in new material, such as "Jefferson Jericho Blues", "Running Man's Bible", and "Good Enough" between the essential "Free Fallin'", "Breakdown", "Refugee" and "American Girl", which closed their set.


Petty's quiet demeanor didn't hold him back from the occasional laugh or dance move, as he moved his way around the stage, entertaining the large crowd for just under the two-hour mark. The summer heat didn't hold any of the band members back from great performances, and guitarrist Mike Campbell didn't miss a beat during guitar solos. The reason of the rescheduling was because Campbell was under doctor's orders to rest after coming down with heat exhaustion in the middle of their tour in July.


Fans, many with tour merchandise in hand, left happy from one of the best concerts the Cleveland area has seen all summer.


Setlist: 1. Listen to Her Heart; 2. You Don't Know How it Feels; 3. I Won't Back Down; 4. Free Fallin'; 5. Oh Well; 6. Mary Jane's Last Dance; 7. Kings Highway; 8. Breakdown; 9. Jefferson Jericho Blues; 10. Good Enough; 11. Running Man's Bible; 12. I Should Have Known It; 13. Learning to Fly; 14. Don't Come Around Here No More; 15. Refugee. ENCORE: 16. Running Down a Dream; 17. Carol; 18. American Girl.

John Mayer plays Blossom Music Center (15 Photos)

Blossom Music Center Setlist:


Vultures


Clarity


Perfectly Lonely


Ain't No Sunshine (Cover-Bill Withers)


Gravity


Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay (Cover-Otis Redding)


Why Georgia


Stop This Train


Who Says


Heartbreak Warfare


Waiting on the World to Change


Raspberry Beret (Cover-Prince)


Do You Know Me


Good Love is on the Way


Half of my Heart


Encore:


Comfortable


Edge of Desire

Brad Paisley's H2O tour rolls through Blossom Music Center (17 Photos)

Country superstar Brad Paisley rolled into Blossom Music Center with his 2010 H2O tour and brought plenty of water with him. As soon as Paisley took the stage, a downpour began and kept fans in the sold-out lawn drenched, and fans in the packed pavilion cool with a light mist throughout the one hour and 45 minute set.


Earlier in the evening, openers Josh Thompson, Easton Corbin and Steel Magnolia entertained fans on a side stage up the Blossom hill, while Small Town USA originator Justin Moore opened main stage activities at 7pm. His set included an ode to his late Grandfather, and dedicated it to anyone that lost someone to cancer. Fitting, as some of the proceeds from ticket sales were donated to Cleveland Clinic's fight against cancer.


Darius Rucker took the stage after Moore, delivering an uplifting 50-minute set with songs from his number one selling album, Learn to Live, and visited his Hootie and the Blowfish days with “I Only Wanna Be With You”. The 11-song set was a perfect way to lead into a fun and eclectic bill on the H2O tour.


Brad Paisley and his seven band members took the stage to a blue light wash and green lasers projecting into the crowd from a second level of stage platforms. Paisley’s set lasted for one hour and 55 minutes, leading right up to the 11 pm curfew for Blossom performances.


“How many people like fishing and drinking beer?” asked the ACM Vocalist of the Year, before ripping through “Catch All the Fish''. Acoustic performances of “Letter to Me'' and the haunting, but beautiful “Whiskey Lullaby” pleased the crowd. Brad finished with “Welcome to the Future” and “Then”, before taking the stage for an encore of “Ticks'' and “Alcohol''.

Pearl Jam live in Cleveland (24 Photos)
SET LIST
01. WASH
02. HAIL HAIL
03. CORDUROY
04. GOT SOME
05. IN HIDING
06. WORLD WIDE SUICIDE
07. FORCE OF NATURE
08. IMMORTALITY
09. GO
10. EVEN FLOW
11. ARMY RESERVE
12. UNTHOUGHT KNOWN
13. DAUGHTER (WMA)
14. SLEIGHT OF HAND
15. JOHNNY GUITAR
16. DO THE EVOLUTION
17. THE FIXER
18. WHY GO
Encore Break 1 
19. JUST BREATHE
20. GIVEN TO FLY
21. LEASH
22. PORCH
Encore Break 2
23. WASTED REPRISE
24. LIFE WASTED
25. BLACK
26. THE REAL ME-(Townshend)
27. SMILE
28. ALIVE
29. INDIFFERENCE
Templar car collection (15 Photos)

Randy Ema, one of the leading restorers and car collectors in the United States, made an unexpected visit to the former Templar factory (now the Lake Erie Screw Company) in Lakewood.

Dave Bueller of Lakewood owns a dozen original Templar cars, which were made in the early 1900's in Lakewood. The company went bankrupt three times, and eventually Templars became a rare collectors item.

Ema is a friend of NBC's "The Tonight Show" host Jay Leno, who is an avid car collector himself. Mr. Ema is from Orange County, California.

President Obama visits Strongsville, Ohio to talk about Health Care Reform (28 Photos)
All photographs are property of Ivor Karabatkovic.
LHS Baseball holds first outdoor practice (11 Photos)
The LHS boys baseball team took advantage of the sunny weather and took to the field for throwing and fielding practice. Outfielders caught fly balls, as the infield and pitchers practiced indoors.
President Obama lands at Cleveland Hopkins Airport (8 Photos)
President Barack Obama landed at Cleveland Hopkins Airport early Friday morning. He visited two factories before making a speech about the economy, jobs, and education at a Town Hall meeting held at Lorain County Community College.
Buddy Guy New Years concert at House of Blues Cleveland (16 Photos)

Downtown Cleveland was alive with people ready to bring in the New Year, and no place was more alive than the House of Blues. Five time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Buddy Guy took the stage and shook the foundation of the building.

“I’ve gotta give you what I got in 2009” the upbeat blues legend declared to a packed venue. He didn’t hold anything back. Taking the stage at 11 pm, his band followed his lead and together they poured out hit after hit. Guy covered material from all time periods of his career, from his famous “Damn right, I’ve got the Blues” to “Skin Deep”, the title track from his latest album.

He interacted with the crowd, since they knew every word to every song.

“Hello Cleveland, I love you!” Buddy proclaimed as fans sung the chorus to “Feels like Rain”, a slower, more sentimental song. When the slow blues wasn’t being played, Buddy played his guitar with his signature force and energy. With the crowd singing and dancing, everyone in attendance brought in the New Year in a great way. Their own personal guitar legend provided the soundtrack.

The band took a short break right before the clock struck midnight, and when the countdown ended, people cheered and the band kept playing.

The opening acts for Buddy Guy were Austin “Walkin’” Cane and Kristine Jackson. Both are local musicians who are talented enough to headline their own gigs at the House of Blues. Wearing a top had with a red feather, Austin Cane plays a Dobro slide guitar which accompanies his deep singing voice. Kristine Jackson sounds very soulful, and surprised the crowd with her guitar playing. There was plenty of buzz surrounding the two opening acts, and when it was time for them to wrap up their sets, the crowd cheered for more.

Between the two rising local musicians who opened the festivities up, and the legendary Buddy Guy pouring out his heart and soul in each note, fans left satisfied and blown away by the talented musicians.

Bay Village HS Holiday Tournament, LHS vs Mayfield (10 Photos)
Mayfield defeats the Rangers by a final score of 9-0
Bay Village HS Holiday Tournament, BHS vs Nordonia HS (9 Photos)
The Bay Village Rockets defeat Nordonia High School by a final score of 4-2.
KISS Alive 35 in Cleveland (10 Photos)
Set List:
Deuce
Strutter
Got to Choose
Let Me Go, Rock ‘N Roll
Modern Day Delilah
Hotter Than Hell
Nothing to Lose
C’mon and Love Me
Parasite
She
Guitar solo (Tommy Thayer)
Watchin’ You
100,000 Years
Drum solo (Eric Stringer)
Black Diamond
Rock and Roll All Nite

Encore:
Shout It Out Loud
Lick It Up
Bass solo
I Love It Loud
Cold Gin
Love Gun
Detroit Rock City
No Doubt Summer Reunion Tour 2009 (39 Photos)
22,000+ fans filled Blossom Music Center to watch No Doubt, Paramore and Bedouin Soundclash perform.
H2O Earth Hour (6 Photos)
LHS Girls Basketball vs Fairview HS 12/3/08 (20 Photos)
Lakewood 66
Fairview    40
2008 Mayor's Ball (34 Photos)
Volleyball Sectional Finals 2008, Lakewood vs Medina-Highland (28 Photos)

Lakewood  25 25 20 21 15

Highland   20 21 25 25  9

 

 

Stat Leaders:

Digs: Sarah Spiece, 15. Sam Kash, 12. Bridgette Garcia, 10.

Assists: Bridgette Garcia, 36.

Kills: Nicole Niemi, 27. Bridgette Garcia, 9. Ella Mravec, 8.

Blocks: Ella Mravec, 9. Nicole Niemi,9. Bridgette Garcia, 5.

Lakewood Football vs Brunswick HS (22 Photos)
Brunswick defeats the Rangers 49-17.
OHSAA Volleyball Sectionals 2008, Lakewood vs Valley Forge Round 1 (41 Photos)

 

 

 

Lakewood  24 23 28 25 16

V. Forge     26 25 26 22 14

 

Stat Leaders:

Hitting/Kills:

Nicole Niemi, 30 kills. Sara Hogya, 10 kills. Caitlin Link, 9 kills. Ella Mravec, 8 kills. Joanna Gobeille, 6 kills.

 

Defense

Ella Mravec, 9 blocks.

Sam Kash, 11 digs. Nicole Niemi/Joanna Gobeille, 9 digs.

Serving: Joanna Gobeille, 6 aces. Caitlin Link, 3 aces.

  • Valley Forge held the biggest lead (6 points) of the night during game 4. The score at the time was 11-5 Valley Forge.
  • Lakewood's biggest lead of the night came  during game 2, when the Rangers led the Patriots 17-13.
  • Facing elimination, the Lady Rangers battled back to win the last three games and the best of five series to move on to the next round.
  • Lakewood will face Highland in the second round of the Strongsville Division 1 bracket, Saturday evening at 5 p.m. @ Strongsville High School.
Look for the game article in the next print issue of the Lakewood Observer.
Sectionals 2008, LHS Girls Soccer vs Normandy HS (18 Photos)
Lakewood defeats Normandy by a final score of 2-0.
Faces in the Crowd- LHS vs Strongsville (11 Photos)
Band and Fan photos
LHS Football Homecoming vs Solon HS Gallery 1 (44 Photos)
Pregame Homecoming activities, Fans, Band and Cheerleaders
Football Portraits (17 Photos)
Cleveland Indians defeat Detroit Tigers 6-3 (15 Photos)

Detroit   1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0

Indians  1 1 0 2 0 0 2 0 X

 

BATTING:

Cleveland:

2B: Shoppach, Sizemore
RBI: Peralta (85), Choo 2 (58,59), Cabrera (42).

Detroit:

2B: Polanco (34), Sheffield (16), Inge (14), Larish (4).
HR: Granderson (20).
RBI: Ordonez (96), Granderson 2 (59,60).

PITCHING:

Cleveland:

Sowers, W (4-8) 6 IP, 5 Hits, 2 Walks, 3 K's, 1 run.

Lewis, S (11) 1 IP, 1 Walk, 1 K.

Detroit:

Verlander, L (10-17) 4 IP, 5 Hits, 4 Runs, 4 Walks, 4 K's.

LHS Volleyball vs Strongsville HS (16 Photos)

Strongsville (6-4)  25  25  24  25
Lakewood   (6-8)  13  10  26  19

  •  The Lady Rangers are battling through a four game losing streak and placing in sixth place in the Rocky River Invitational last week.
  • Their offensive attack has been a consistent flatline, while their defensive hussle, spirit and energy has kept the Lady Rangers competing in close games.
  • Lakewood won one game in Thursday's match against the Mustang by a score of 26-24. The lady Rangers found themselves down 21-15 and battled back to tie the score at 21 apiece. The Mustangs scored three consecutive points to take a 24-21 lead and force match point, but the lady Rangers rebounded and scored five points in a row to win the game. Nicole Niemi scored the deciding point with a powerfull kill.

Stat Leaders:

Kills:

Nicole Niemi, 11

Caitlin Link, 5

Joanna Gobeille, 4

Serving:

Bridgette Gracia, 2 aces. 

Hillary Clinton visits Lorain County Community College (24 Photos)

Hillary Clinton visited Lorain County Community College on Sunday afternoon to speak about issues that are important to greater Cleveland voters. It was her first time in the county since making a primary campaign stop at Admiral King High School last spring.

The New York Senator was greeted by 1,000 eager supporters of her and presidential nominee Barack Obama at LCCC’s College Center. Clinton won Lorain County over Obama 56 percent to 42 percent back in March.

"Barack and I may have started on two separate paths," Clinton told supporters, "but we are on one journey now."

Clinton also took the opportunity to take jabs at Republican nominee John McCain and current president George W. Bush on their stances on the economy and health care. Clinton alluded to a comment President Bush made when he visited Cleveland in July of 2007. Bush was quoted of saying “I mean, people have access to health care in America. After all, you just go to an emergency room.”

Clinton also rephrased a part of her speech at the Democratic National Convention by saying “No way, now how, no McCain, and no Palin.”

The crowd of 1,000 local residents roared in support. It was the only reference made to GOP Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin.

Senator Clinton made one more stop in Ohio when she visied Ellet High School in Akron on Sunday afternoon.

St. Edward vs Akron Firestone, Football (19 Photos)
Eagles 38
Falcons 7
LHS Football vs Parma Redmen (21 Photos)

Parma (2-2)      7 7 0 7

Lakewood (0-4) 0 0 7 7

  • Runningback Joe Young scores two touchdowns, running for one in the third quarter and catching a pass from Quarterback Dan Shannon late in the fourth quarter. Parma recovered Lakewood's onside kick and let the clock run down.
  • Lakewood made improvements on the defensive side, coming up with turnovers, nearly blocking field goals and punts, and not allowing many first downs, break away runs or passes.
  • The Rangers take on a undefeated Garfield Heights team next friday at Garfield Heights High School.
Faces in the Crowd- LHS vs Parma (16 Photos)
Rangerette, Cheerleader, and Fan portraits.
LHS Volleyball vs North Ridgeville Bears (17 Photos)

Lakewood    28 18 23 21

N. Ridgeville 26 25 25 25

Stat Leaders:

  • Kills: Nicole Niemi, 9 Caitlin Link , 8 Sara Hogya, 7
  • Digs: Nicole Niemi, 14 Sarah Speice, 10
  • Assists: Bridget Garcia, 32
  • Serving: Nicole Niemi, 3 aces.

Lakewood was able to handle North Ridgeville's serving, allowing only one ace in four games.

Remembering September 11, 2001 (16 Photos)

Members of Lakewood High School's Key Club honored the lives that were lost on September 11, 2001 by covering the front lawn of the school with 2,977 flags.

Look for the article in the 9/16/08 edition of the Lakewood Observer.

Lakewood Girls Soccer vs St. Joseph Academy (23 Photos)
Lakewood varsity defeats St. Joseph Academy by a final score of 1-0
Lakewood Football vs North Olmsted Eagles (37 Photos)

North Olmsted 22

Lakewood 0

2008 Cleveland Air Show (52 Photos)
Photos taken from Wendy Park/Whiskey Island
LHS Varsity Football vs North Ridgeville Rangers (27 Photos)
North Ridgeville 32
Lakewood 17
St. Edward vs Strongsville HS (38 Photos)

St. Edward came out triumphant over Strongsville Saturday evening at a sold out Lakewood Stadium by a final score of 37-36.

It was a game of inches, as Strongsville kicker Nate Feese attempted a 51-yard field goal with three seconds and bounced it off of the field goal cross bar to seal the one point victory for the Eagles.

The lead changed five times throughout the game, as both teams committed turnovers and capitalized on their opponents’ mistakes. St. Edward found themselves down 21-0 but battled back to take the lead and shift the momentum in their favor.The Mustangs scored as time expired in the first half to take the lead back heading into halftime.

The Eagles gaited 90 yards in less than two minutes and eventually tied the game 36-36 on a three yard run by Brad Staples with 39 seconds left in the game. The extra point kick by Ramsey Ayata was good to give the Eagles the victory.

LHS Freshman Football vs Berea HS (9 Photos)
The Rangers defeated Berea by a final score of 20-14
Lakewood Girls Soccer vs Rocky River (15 Photos)

The Lady Rangers began their 2008 season with a thriller against the Rocky River Pirates on Tuesday evening.

Being down 2-0 with close to 10 minutes left to play, senior captain Jessica Rosul put the ball into the back of the net. What followed were two more goals by freshman Gina Mack and junior Lisa Kunze to take a 3-2 lead and edge out the Pirates.

LHS Football camp (33 Photos)
July 4th Fireworks (11 Photos)
July 4th Parade, 2008 (59 Photos)
Omar Vizquel returns to Cleveland: Pregame activities (18 Photos)

Once upon a time….

 

A shortstop that danced his way around tough plays and got his hands dirty even though he had a glove patrolled the infield of then Jacobs Field.

Omar Vizquel made his return to Cleveland in grand style as he used his grace and skill to dazzle the Cleveland fans that welcomed the star back.
29,024 roaring fans welcomed Omar into the batters box. The shortstop admitted that he did not want to get the same treatment as former teammates Manny Ramirez and Jim Thome, and he didn’t. A moving video congratulated Vizquel on playing the most games at shortstop in the history of Baseball, and showed many gracious plays and smiles that he has blessed this city with. The 41 year old could be seen choking back tears, and lit up the ballpark with his contagious smile and demeanor.

Vizquel needed four years to make his return to Cleveland as the San Francisco Giants played the Indians for the first time in interleague play on Tuesday night at Progressive Field. He delivered a clutch sacrifice bunt in the top of the 9th inning to score Rich Aurillia from third base. Indians third baseman Casey Blake tried to barehand the ball but could not throw Vizquel out at first.

Omar’s frustration at the plate could be seen during Tuesday’s game, the .170 average loomed over his vibrant smile. A visible knee brace also reminded Omar that at 41 years old, you won’t be able to get to every ground ball. Vizquel showed his range by doing what he does best, play defense. This is what Tribe fans came to see, Vizquel at his finest, smiling and enjoying the game of baseball just as he always did. Unfortunately, Vizquel’s dazzle came in the bottom of the ninth inning and prevented a game tying run from scoring.

Many say that there will never be another shortstop that played the position with such confidence, skill, and style as Omar did. The 41 year old needs 400 hits to reach the pinnacle of 3,000 career hits. His major league leading games played at shortstop along with his love for the game will help him become a first ballot hall of fame inductee. The question is what jersey the showman will wear. The MLB Hall of Fame makes that decision for the players, so the answer is unknown.

The 11 seasons spent with the Indians, along with all the accomplishments playing alongside sidekicks Roberto Alomar and Carlos Baerga make Cleveland fans believe that Omar will don a Tribe hat.

New Football Coaches make their debut (15 Photos)
The LHS Football team took the turf for their first drills under newly hired coach Ron Lewis and his coaching staff.
Rock on the Range, Day 1 (36 Photos)
A dapper Scott Weiland and fellow Stone Temple Pilots members took the stage on Saturday, relaxed and comfortable in front of 30,000 people, as if they have been on tour for months. What fans came to see was STP’s first show in eight years. The reincarnated band headlined the first night of the Rock on the Range festival in Columbus, Ohio.

Weiland, alongside drummer Eric Kretz, bassist Robert DeLeo, guitarist Dean DeLeo, played “Big Empty” as the opening song, and followed with some of the band’s greatest hits, including “Creep,” “Interstate Love Song” and “Plush”, which were big crowd favorites.

The mood of the set was mellow and it had an “it’s nice to be back” feeling to it, as STP presented a sophisticated, almost grown up image in front of cheering fans. The previous bands on the bill, especially deeply emotional rockers Staind, fast-strumming Killswitch Engage and hard-hitting Disturbed took the stage before Stone Temple Pilots and raised the energy just enough for the crowd to be excited for the reuniting headliner.

The first day of Rock and Roll was finished, and the fans learned that General Admission seats for the second day had been sold out. A fitting end to a great day of music was the beginning of a new era, starring one of the greatest rockers from the 90’s, Stone Temple Pilots, which all the bands on the bill drew inspiration from.
Gigantour 2008 featuring Megadeth (16 Photos)

One of the many great concerts that is making a stop in Cleveland this summer. Metal legends Megadeth brought their annual "Gigantour" concert to the Tower City Amphitheatre on Sunday, May 4, 2008. The line up included the fast playing, mosh-pitting Job for a Cowboy, In Flames, High on Fire and Children of Bodom.

I missed the High on Fire and JFAC sets but made it in time for a great set by Children of Bodom. In Flames, a Swedish metal band, folowed and did not disappoint. Inspiring the biggest mosh pit (see photos) of the night, they rocked the stage. The legendary Dave Mustaine and Megadeth took the stage as the headlining band. Sadly, a decision made by either Live Nation or the TCA prevented standing room only fans to be close to the stage, and set up metal chairs for seating sections leading up to the stage.

Hundreds of fans left unhappy, and due to the low vocals of lead singer Dave Mustaine, they felt as if they witnessed a instrumental. For those fortunate enough to be in the seating area and closer to the stage, the show was full of energy and Megadeth did not disappoint.

Any hard rock fan would agree that seeing Megadeth is on their Bucket List, and the crowd turnout was large. At least a few thousand metal fans can cross that one off their list, but I have a feeling they would gladly see Megadeth again.

Hopefully 2009 will bring on more bands that fall under the same music genre as Megadeth. Out of the opening bands, In Flames received the biggest applause and fan appreciation. The concert was packed with energy and loyal Megadeth fans, and was well worth the admission for any fan. The Gigantour will continue making stops throughout the month of May. The list of stops is below.

May 6 Chicago, IL - Aragon

May 7 Milwaukee, WI - Eagles Ballroom

May 9 Minneapolis, MN - Myth

May 10 Winnipeg, MB - Convention Center

May 11 Saskatoon, SK - Prairieland Exhibition Hall

May 12 Edmonton, AB - Shaw Conference Center

May 14 Calgary, AB - The Corral

May 16 Vancouver, BC - Pacific Coliseum

May 17 Salem, OR - Salem Armory

May 19 San Jose, CA - Event Center @ San Jose State

May 20 San Diego, CA - Cox Arena

May 21 Los Angeles, CA - Long Beach Arena

May 22 Phoenix, AZ - Mesa Amphitheatre

LHS Baseball vs Solon (53 Photos)
The Rangers took a quick 6-0 lead against the 8-1 Solon Comets, but the Comets chipped away and tied the game in the fifth inning.

Junior Nick Vagi hit a triple deep into center field to lead off the bottom of the 6th inning and eventually scored the go ahead run on a balk call. John Reulbach scored the critical 8th run to give the Rangers a two run lead, enough to beat the Comets.
Varsity Softball vs Solon HS (39 Photos)
The Varsity Softball squad defeated Solon in a thriller by a final score of 2-1.
Lakewood vs Keystone game 2 (32 Photos)
Lakewood defeats the Keystone Wildcats with the help of Dan Shannon, Nick Vagi, and Codi Whyel, who hit home runs in the game.
Lakewood vs Keystone game 1 (15 Photos)
Rangers lose the first game of a Saturday double header by a final score of 8-3
Al Gruss/ Tony DiBiasio Tournament 2008 (43 Photos)
Standings:

St. Edward Eagles (2-0)
Holy Name Green Wave (1-1)
Lakewood Rangers (1-1)
North Olmsted Eagles (0-2)
LHS Baseball opens 2008 season (51 Photos)
Lakewood lost it's season opener 8-0 against the North Olmsted Eagles on Wednesday, April 2 at Lakewood Stadium.

Junior Jordan Kraus received the chance to start on the mound, and after a quick first inning he found himself in a bases loaded jam in the 2nd inning.

The Rangers, who seemed to break out of their spring hitting slump in the bottom of the 1st inning, could not advance their runners after loading the bases with no outs.

The Rangers will play again on Friday, April 4, at 4:30 pm for the opening game of the Al Gruss/Toni DiBiasio Tournament. St.Edward, Holy Name, North Olmsted and Lakewood make up the teams in this year's tournament. The Tournament will wrap up Saturday, with games starting at 10 am and lasting until the evening when the Rangers take on St.Edward at 6:30 pm.
Lakewood vs Rocky River baseball scrimmage (20 Photos)
Varsity baseball won 4-0 against the visiting Rocky River Pirates. Senior Matt Kenney started the game and went two innings with no hits, four strike outs and no walks. Dan Shannon hit a big double into center field to knock in a few runs.
Freshman Baseball Practice (19 Photos)
The LHS Freshman Baseball team took advantage of the blue skies today and took the field for practice.
Bill Clinton at LHS (34 Photos)
Barack Obama visits Cleveland (21 Photos)
Senator Barack Obama fired up a large Cleveland crowd late Saturday night at the Cleveland Convocation Center.

The Convocation Center was near it's capacity and people from all neck of the woods came to show their support for the Presidential Candidate hopeful.

Volunteers had been at the Convocation Center all day Saturday and security was tight, since the Secret Service provides security for all candidates. (scary tough guys in suits!)
Dennis Kucinich (3 Photos)
Hockey vs Brush HS (8 Photos)
Congratulations to the 2008 LHS Ranger Hockey team for becoming the NOC Division champions.
LHS Wrestling (7 Photos)
Inauguration of Lakewood's new Mayor and Councilmembers (31 Photos)
A great day for Lakewood. The Lakewood High School Choir, lead by Dr. Lisa Hansen did a wonderful rendition of "America the Beautiful" to kick off the inauguration. Senator Sherrod Brown did the honors of Swearing in the Mayor and Council Members.

Congratulations to Tom Bullock, Kevin Butler, and Mary Louise Madigan on winning a seat in your wards. Also, congratulations to Lakewood's newest Mayor, Ed FitzGerald, on being elected Mayor of this fine city!
Varsity Basketball vs Strongsville HS (11 Photos)
Great game!

Lakewood lead in double digits all game, but lost the lead with a few minutes to go, only to regain it and pull away with a victory over a tough Strongsville team.
Lakewood Hockey vs Brooklyn HS (18 Photos)
It is a given that Brooklyn and Lakewood Hockey teams have a rivalry between them, but this game was absolutely brutal!

Brooklyn should be the only competition that Lakewood has in their new division this year. The game was physical, a lot of cheap shots were thrown and a lot of penalties were handed out.

Lakewood beat Brooklyn by a final score of 7-3. Great game! Looks like the hockey team has found it's winning ways once again!
Paintings by Ivor Karabatkovic (1 Photos)
My first two paintings ever.

The left one is 20"x30" and the right one is 16"x20".

entitled "España"
Music Company Robbed (5 Photos)
A 17 year old intoxicated male was seen stumbling down detroit avenue, asking for money, drugs and cigarettes around midnight on Friday the 27th of October. A group of Lakewood teens were approached by the individual, and after he was told to leave them alone he became violent and grabbed a girl in a headlock. He then continued his drunken rampage by trying to break into cars behind the Music Company and the Party Station parking lots, and made his way into the front of the Music Company store. The teens flagged down a police officer who then called for back up. The male only shattered the glass door before Lakewood Police showed up and arrested the teen. He had just been released out of jail recently on separate charges, but is now spending the night in jail.
Tribe Pride Party, Jacobs Field (30 Photos)
Photos from the watch party at Jacobs Field for game 7 of the American League Championship Series against the Boston Red Sox. The Indians were defeated by a final score of 11-2 to lose their opportunity to represent the American League in the 2007 World Series.
Happy 100th Birthday, Lakewood Hospital! (17 Photos)
Just a few shots of a wonderful evening at Lakewood Hospital. Everything from the people, the food, the festivities, the decorations and services were perfect! Everyone enjoyed their night. Thank you Lakewood Hospital!
Lakewood Football Practice (19 Photos)
The Rangers are preparing for a big game against the Medina Bees this friday at LHS Stadium. It will be a great match up and the Rangers look to go back to a .500 record and become victorious.

On another Ranger note, the LHS Girls Soccer team is playing for the Conference Championship this Wednesday night at home. Come and support your lady rangers and the coaches who have worked so hard to turn this program around. Both coaches have turned the soccer program around and look to build a winning tradition in Lakewood Soccer once again.
New Macro Photos (8 Photos)
a study of bumble bees (21 Photos)
Just practicing some new subjects with my new equipment. The bumble bees are extremely fast, and are almost impossible to catch in-flight. When the wind is blowing hard it moves the flowers all over the place, making it even trickier to get a good shot. Patience is a virtue, especially in the world of macro photography.
Varsity Girls Soccer vs St.Joes (29 Photos)
The Varsity team beat a very good St.Joe's team by a final score of 4-0. Junior Tessa Endress was the star of the night with two goals, one in the 7th minute and the second goal in the 29th minute of the match.

The girls came out firing and Senior Jamie Meggas followed Tessa's goal a minute later (8th minute) to make the score 2-0. Great defense shut down the attacking Jaguars and Senior Rachel Niemi's goal with 10 minutes remaining in the game sealed a victory for the Lady Rangers.
JV girls soccer vs St.Joes (10 Photos)
The Junior Varsity team won their first game of the season at home on Wednesday night against St.Joseph Academy. Cecily Rus scored a goal off of a corner kick to put the Rangers ahead. Congratulations on your first win of the season!
Game 1, LHS vs Berea football (34 Photos)

An emotional evening was capped off by a moving tribute and moment of silence for Varsity Baseball Head Coach Jerry Gruss, who passed away on Thursday, August 23rd. Coach Gruss coached baseball at LHS for decades, and was the head coach for the past seven years. He finished his career with a 180-108 record and a .625 winning percentage.

The football team won by a final score of 37-8 and won this game for Coach Gruss. New runningback (and speedy varsity baseball base stealer) Robert Trivett scored three touchdowns and had a incredible game. He had been sidelined from practice all week with two ulcers on his cornea. A great start to a brand new football season. Everyone played a great game. The next game is on Friday, August 31st at LHS Stadium.

Car Kulture Show (6 Photos)
Rocky Bleier visits Lakewood High School Athletes (31 Photos)
Former Steelers running back and Vietnam Veteran Rocky Bleier spoke with LHS athletes, students and coaches on thursday night in the Civic Auditorium. It was a great event and Mr.Bleier shared his great story of success and perseverance. Look for a great article by Sports Editor Mike Deneen in the next issue of the Lakewood Observer.

All photos are copyright by Ivor Karabatkovic. Use of photos without express written consent is prohibited.
LHS Football (19 Photos)
The team prepared for Friday night's scrimmage against St.Ignatius by having a walk-through practice. Before the practice began, two players had a bench press competition that finalized a three day competition between them.
Volleyball Practice (9 Photos)
Girls Soccer Scrimmage vs Valley Forge (34 Photos)
Junior Varsity beat Valley Forge by a final score of 4-0 and Varsity won by a final score of 3-1. The girls are working very hard under the new coaching staff, look for a great season in the new athletic conference.
Jerry Gruss Tribute Baseball Game (38 Photos)
Recent graduate of Lakewood High School Eric Converse created a marathon baseball game in honor of his former coach, Head Coach Jerry Gruss. The event lasted 8 hours and drew players young and old.

Coach Jerry Gruss stopped by to say his thanks and to catch a glimpse of this great event. He also watched his football team scrimmage for about an hour.

All the proceeds will go towards a brand new scoreboard. Check the next issue of the Observer for a total dollar amount that Eric and everyone involved has raised.
Football Two-a-Days (29 Photos)
Cleveland Indians vs Chicago White Sox (58 Photos)
Final Score: Chicago 5, Cleveland 1.
Cleveland Indians vs Kansas City Royals (64 Photos)
The Indians won in the bottom of the 9th by a final score of 5-4. Closer Joe Borowski lost the save as he let the tying run score in the top of the ninth inning. First baseman Ryan Garko singled to center field to drive in Mike Rousse who ran for Travis Hafner.
Fall Sports are right around the corner! (34 Photos)

This Gallery covers Girls Soccer, Boys Soccer, Football, and the Lakewood Recreation Baseball Skills Camp which was coached by Coach Lamphear and Coach Kammock from Lakewood High: 

A new field, new coaches, players and a positive energy is surrounding Lakewood High School's sports teams. The football field is very close to completion, and it looks great. I invite all our Lakewoodites to at least one LHS sporting event this year. You will be a witness to class, sportsmanship and great teamwork. With a new field, and many coaching changes, let's welcome our new head coaches the right way by showing up and supporting our city's sports teams. I hope to see you all this fall, stop by and say hello! Lakewood Athletics is a great way to spend a cool friday night at the stadium with your kids. These photos are proof that our Rangers are working very hard this summer to put on a great show and win some games for everyone in attendance.

LHS Stadium near completion (5 Photos)
The turf is almost complete and it looks great. Now all they have to do is fill the turf with ground up tennis shoes, tires and sand and cut the extra turf around the field.
Views of Cleveland (8 Photos)
Photos taken of downtown Cleveland during my spare time. All photos are property of Ivor Karabatkovic. Use of photos without written consent is not permitted.
Cleveland Botanical Garden (7 Photos)
A day spent in the Cleveland Botanical Garden. All photos are copyrighted by Ivor Karabatkovic. Use of photos without written consent is not permitted.
Lakewood's 4th of July Parade (79 Photos)
great fun for the family. Although I was pelted by candy since it was "throw candy at the photographer" day, it was tons of fun. can't wait until next year!
New LHS Civic Auditorium Sign (1 Photos)
Donated by the Lakewood High School Alumni Foundation
LPL Gala 6/24/2007 (41 Photos)
Great event. Lakewood turned Hollywood for a evening!
New Turf at LHS Stadium (10 Photos)
The football field is getting a facelift, a $500,000 facelift.

the new turf looks great, feels like real grass. it'll be a great addition to a beautiful stadium.
Random May Photos (6 Photos)
random photos taken in the month of may...
Memorial Day Parade (52 Photos)
The parade started at Rocky River High School and headed to Lakewood Cemetery. Rocky River Mayor Pamela Bobst and Lakewood Mayor Tom George both gave speeches honoring those that served and are serving for our country. The Rocky River HS Marching Band lead by Director Kirk Taylor lead the parade and played "God Bless America" and "America the Beautiful".

It was a gorgeous day and the crowd was big. Many people came out to show support for our Veterans and serving Men and Women.
Baseball vs Euclid (16 Photos)
The Rangers headed into saturday's matchup against Euclid on a 9 game winning streak. Eight errors and a lousy first inning gave Euclid a 4 run lead. The Rangers attempt to win the game came up two feet short as senior Taylor Kraus was forced out at second base in the bottom of the 7th. With two outs, the Rangers didn't give up and scored another run and the final was 4-3. The Rangers will take this loss and use it as motivation against Midpark in the Districts Semifinal game this Tuesday at 6:30pm. Be there to cheer your Rangers on to victory!
Rangers vs Maple Heights Mustangs- Meet The Rangers Night (26 Photos)
The Rangers mercy ruled the Maple Heights Mustangs friday evening at LHS Stadium. The Mustangs began the game with three runs in the first inning off of pitcher David Hash, but David settled down and pitched well in the next few innings. The Ranger offense continues to be red-hot and scored five runs in the bottom of the first. The final score was 13-3.
LHS Senior Art Show (4 Photos)
Lakewood Baseball vs Garfield Heights (37 Photos)
today's game was a nail-biter. They were losing 8-2 in the 5th inning (HS only plays 7, if no extra innings are needed) and then ended up tying the game in the bottom of the 6th. The Rangers beat Garfield Heights by a final score of 9-8 in the bottom of the 8th, as Robert Trivett bunted the ball and ended up at 3rd base on a overthrow. Junior Sam Norris grounded to the shortstop which allowed Robert to score from third.
Rangers vs Cleveland Hts Tigers 4-23-07 (46 Photos)
The Rangers finally won their first game on the road, beating the Cleveland Heights Tigers 12-1. Senior Adam Hrdlicka pitched a complete game, and everyone provided some offense.

Senior Taylor Kraus had three doubles, and senior Tim LaBar scored two runs. The defense wasn't a let down today, even though the ball took plenty of funny hops on the Tigers Field.

The Rangers are now 12-2
LHS JV Softball 4-21-07 vs Westlake Double Header (35 Photos)
Game #1: 4-3 Westlake beats Lakewood
Game #2: 11-1 Lakewood beats Westlake

Game two of the double header was an exciting one against Westlake HS. Each girl contributed something to the mercy rule victory over Westlake. Sophomore Kelsey Moran had a home run as well as 4 RBI's. Sophomore Danielle Villnuve pitched all 5 innings of play, striking out 8 batters. She didn't walk a batter and did not give up any earned runs.

The game ended on a double by Sierra Kapsalis who drove in the final runs to give the lady rangers a 10 run lead. By rule in High School Softball, the game is called due to the "Mercy Rule".

The JV Lady Rangers are 8-5 this season and are tearing up the LEL.
Lakewood Clean Up Day (12 Photos)
The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, the City of Lakewood and it's proud business owners cleaned up detroit avenue on a beautiful saturday morning
Ranger Softball (10 Photos)
Rangers vs Shaker Hts. Baseball (18 Photos)
4-16-2007

The Rangers trompelled over Shaker Heights this chilly evening. Senior catcher Alex Botsch threw out two runners by a mile, Senior Tim LaBar pitched another superb game and Seniors Zach Toole, Rob Pecl and Taylor Kraus provided the Rangers with offense. Juniors Robert Trivett and Sam Norris also had a few hits to create a large lead over Shaker late in the game.
Guess "What" (1 Photos)
Each week I will post up a 100% zoom of an item. See if you can figure out what it is!
Lakewood Rangers vs Rocky River Pirates- Baseball (19 Photos)
Lakewood was excited to go up against former Lakewood player (of three years) senior Ted Brink, who transfered to Rocky River for his senior year in high school. Ted got the start and pitched a good game, but in the end the Rangers came out on top and beat the Pirates by a score of 8-5.

Great pitching by senior Adam Hrdlicka and offense by Zach Toole and Rob Pecl, who had a home run, helped the Rangers improve their record to 6-1.
Al Gruss/ Tony DiBiasio Early Bird Tournament, Day 1 and 2 (32 Photos)
The Rangers came out swinging and beat Holy Name and Midpark in their first two games. The St.Eds Eagles didn't do so well, going 0-2 for their first two games and in the end beating the Rangers under the lights for a final record of 1-2.

Standings for the tournament were:
Lakewood
Midpark
Holy Name
St.Edwards

great job lakewood for winning the tournament against three strong opponents!
Ranger Baseball Update 3-28 (29 Photos)
Two beautiful days of baseball have passed, and the Rangers are still undefeated and lookin' good for this weekends early bird tournament.

Tuesday's game against Midview was a pitching duel. Lakewood Ace Tim LaBar struck out 12 batters and pitched a scoreless complete game. He also helped his own cause and turned a scoreless game in the bottom of the 6th inning into a 1-0 lead with a home run. That sparked three more runs from the Rangers, and they came out with a victory over Midpark by a final score of 4-0.

Wednesday was a chilly day, and the Rangers started off cold. Another great pitching duel was in the works with senior Adam Hrdlicka on the mound against Fairport Harbor. A tough Fairport team kept the Rangers scoreless, and great defense and teamwork held Fairport to no runs. Once again, in the bottom of the 5th and 6th, the Rangers scored twice to take the lead 2-0. Great relief work by senior Zach Toole shut the widnow of opportunity for the Fairport squad and the Rangers continued their winning streak.

Friday's game is scheduled at 4:30pm against Midpark. Midpark is a very tough team to beat, and are responsible for ending the Rangers playoff run last year in the District tournament. Saturday's game is at 10:30am, and then the Rangers play again against rival St.Eds in the evening. If you have free time this weekend, bring the kids and family to Lakewood Stadium for some rockin' Lakewood Baseball!
Lakewood vs Avon Lake (16 Photos)
After a sluggish start in their scrimmages last week, the rangers finally got the ball rolling in the right direction. It wasn't rolling today, but flying out of the ballpark thanks to a monster shot by senior Taylor Kraus. The Rangers beat the Avon Lake Eagles by a score of 15-5.

The Rangers will take on the Midview Middies at home on tuesday at 4:30pm, then Fairport Harding at home on wednesday (430pm). A thursday break will be sweet but it's right back into action as they host the Al Gruss/Tony DiBiasio Tournament this weekend. Games will be all evening friday, and all day saturday.
Lakewood Baseball (16 Photos)
Scrimmage against St.Edwards and St.Patricks Day practice at the CSU soccer field/dome
Baseball Preview (15 Photos)
Look out! the rangers are red hot and loaded with talent this year. My prediction is that they will win the LEL in their last year in the league.
Senator Barack Obama visits Cleveland (28 Photos)
February 26th, 2007. Barack Obama visits Cleveland as he heads into the first leg of his Presidential Campaign. Tackling issues from the war in Iraq, to funding education and health care back at home, Obama delivered a speech nothing short of articulate. A packed Cuyahoga Community College gymnasium roared "OBAMA!" as he walked his way on stage.
Lakewood Hockey vs Parma (24 Photos)
Senior Night at Winterhurst Ice Rink proved to be a disappointing end of the Ranger Hockey season for Lakewood's Seniors.
Swimming vs Mentor Cardinals (18 Photos)
The Ranger Boys lost to the very good Cardinals by a mere 3 points, 94-91. The ranger girls lost by 5 points, 95-90.
Ranger Relays, Swimming (10 Photos)
the girls swim team placed first, winning by two points over Padua High School. The boys team placed second out of eight teams. Diving placed first.
Boys JV Basketball vs St.Edwards (9 Photos)
Lakewood Rangers lost 90-42 to the St.Edward Eagles
Girls Basketball (16 Photos)
Lakewood Swimming (14 Photos)
Fall Photos (41 Photos)
Collection of fall photos. Prints are available. for larger view and other prints, visit www.flickr.com/photos/ivork
Boys Soccer Regionals Match 1 (30 Photos)
The Rangers ended their season on a sour note as they were defeated 1-0 by Toledo St.John's.
Division 1 District Final Boys Soccer (37 Photos)
Congratulations to the Lakewood Rangers on becoming the 2006 District Champions. A well played game between Westlake and Lakewood, with both team displaying class and skill.
LHS Boys Soccer vs St.Ignatius (63 Photos)
A emotional battle between two of the top High School teams took place Saturday, with the St.Ignatius Wildcats winning 1-0.
Lakewood Volleyball (27 Photos)
Rangers vs St.Edwards Eagles- Soccer 9-30-2006 (56 Photos)
Congratulations to the Lakewood Rangers for winning their Third straight LEL championship this past week. This year, they share it with powerhouse Mentor. This gallery contains photos from a very physical match that ended 3-2 in St.Edwards favor.
Lakewood Girls Soccer (30 Photos)
My Photography (34 Photos)
pictures taken over the past 2 years in my spare time. It will be updated throughout time
Homecoming Football Game, Lakewood vs Southview (23 Photos)
Congratulations to Nicco Maddaluna and Marissa Perez on becoming the 2006 Homecoming King and Queen. Also a Get Well Soon for Senior JP Varzelle, who broke his femur friday night. The Student Body wishes him a speedy recovery
Lakewood Ranger Football vs North Olmsted (27 Photos)
Game 3 vs North Olmsted.
LHS Girls Soccer Home Opener (5 Photos)
Look for Updates throughout the season
Lakewood Soccer Season Opener (10 Photos)
A dirty and unsportsmanlike way of playing from the North Royalton HS team and bad officiating beat the Rangers in their home opener 2-0. The Rangers out-hussled and out-played NRHS on every play, but it wasn't enough to walk away the winners.
Lakewood Volleyball season opener (11 Photos)
Game 1- Lakewood vs. Beaumont (lakewood won), Game 2- Lakewood vs. Clearview (Clearview won)
AT&T's new boxes (3 Photos)
My Trip down to the PTA Reflections Awards (14 Photos)
For the first time in school history have two students from LHS placed in the National Level of the PTA Reflections arts competition. Max Mueller won First Place in the National Level for his music Composition and will travel to Phoenix, AZ. While I, myself placed 3rd winning 1st place in state division, and 3rd in the National division for photography.
Baseball Update, May 9th and 10th (30 Photos)
The Rangers became the Sectionals Champions after a victory on Monday. They're rolling right along and are ready for a great game at Tri-C next monday for a District Tourney match against Midpark.
Lakewood Rangers Baseball Update, May 5th and 6th (24 Photos)
The Rangers took the home turf on May 5th to face Warrensville and John Marshall HS. The double header was a strong offensive attack and great pitching from Ted Brink!
Lakewood Girls Softball (13 Photos)
Wednesday April 19th, 2006
Coach Gruss' famous Bad Call arguements (5 Photos)
Due to the very large number of requests of these images, I have put up the following gallery documenting all the fan-favorite umpire-coach battles between Coach Gruss and umpires. This Gallery will be updated as the season goes on, and the ump's drop like flies!
Lakewood Baseball Update 06 (19 Photos)
The Lakewood Rangers swept Rhodes HS in a doubleheader on Wednesday, April 19th. Rob Pecl hit a HR and a double in the first game, and Ranger ace Tim LaBar was unhittable in the second game striking out 10 batters in 4 innings of work.
Ranger Relay's (7 Photos)
Rangers vs Shaw Baseball (32 Photos)
What a beautiful day for baseball! the Rangers went on to bat for almost an hour, scoring 17 runs and beating Shaw. Junior Tim LaBar hit a bullet into right field for his second home run in as many games. Everyone contributed as the Rangers beat Shaw 17-1
Spring Time in the Metroparks (14 Photos)
Went down to the Metroparks before I went to the Lakewood Project show just to get my creativity level up to par before the show. It was a foggy day so I was pretty excited to try out the new weather conditions!
2006 Al Gruss/Toni Dibiasio Baseball Tournament (38 Photos)
Pictures from the weekend tournament. Teams that participated are St.Edwards, North Olmsted, Valley Forge and Lakewood
Ultimate Dodgeball 2006 @ LHS (25 Photos)
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and LHS have a yearly event where students enter into a raffle to play dodgeball against LHS Staff and Teachers. Kristen DiMarco, a senior at Kenston, who was diagnosed at the age of 3 and beat Leukemia when she was 5 spoke to the attending students about how great this event is. Thankfully, her Leukemia has been in remission since she was 5, and she is perfectly healthy. This years event raised $500 to the fight against Leukemia and Lymphoma, and the winners had the priviledge to throw a pie in Dr.Wagners Face!
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