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A goodbye to Lee Road legend Chuck Preisch

For those who haven't heard, I'm sad to report that Charles "Chuck's Diner" Preisch passed away recently. This is an excerpt from his obituary, reprinted with his family's permission:

Charles “Chuck” Preisch, age 74, passed away Jan. 29, 2024, after a short hospitalization following a car accident.

Chuck was really looking forward to 2024. He would have been 75 years old in May, 45 years sober in June, and 50 years married in November. He hoped to celebrate with a visit back to Cleveland to eat at his favorite restaurants and play poker with some of his favorite people.

Chuck grew up in Lockport, N.Y., and dropped out of high school in May of his senior year.

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Volume 17, Issue 3, Posted 12:14 PM, 02.18.2024

Guided park walks begin May 20

Many Heights residents and visitors are surprised to learn that there are 140 acres of nearby parks offering accessible trails and a rich history. Friends of Heights Parks, a nonprofit organization, will present a monthly free Walk in the Park at 10 a.m. on the third Saturday of every month, May through October, to remedy this.

Some people have an innate fear of walking in the woods, as if the Big Bad Wolf or Hansel and Gretel's Wicked Witch is lurking behind a tree. However, if poison ivy is identified and avoided (“leaves of three, let it be”), and walkers remain on the trail, any lingering fear can be replaced with pure enjoyment.

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Volume 16, Issue 5, Posted 9:34 AM, 05.02.2023

Bremer Fisher resigns as FutureHeights executive director

On April 19, the FutureHeights board of directors announced that Deanna Bremer Fisher has resigned from her role as executive director of FutureHeights and publisher of the Heights Observer, effective April 18. She served as the FutureHeights executive director for more than 14 years.

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Volume 15, Issue 5, Posted 5:09 PM, 04.19.2022

Some news from Census 2020

If you have been in Greater Cleveland long enough, you probably have heard that the city of Cleveland was once home to nearly a million people, and that its population is now just a fraction of that. In fact, the population of Cleveland at the time of the 2020 census was 372,624, or 40.7 percent of its 1950 high of 914,808.

While this loss of population may seem extreme, it is comparable to what has happened in the other older industrial cities that Cleveland is most closely related to, including Buffalo (now at 48 percent of its highest ever population), Detroit (at 34.6 percent), and Pittsburgh (44.8 percent). All four of these cities reached their population peaks in 1950; among them, only Detroit has never experienced significant population loss at the regional or metropolitan level, and only Buffalo has recently begun to regain population within its municipal boundaries. 

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Volume 15, Issue 4, Posted 11:24 AM, 04.02.2022

RTA service changes coming to CH and UH

On June 13, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) will introduce its NEXT GEN service revisions, which will bring major changes to Cleveland Heights and University Heights.

In 2019, RTA hired Jarett Walker and Associates to assist with redesigning its route network to improve service frequency and connectivity within the constraints of its financial resources. This type of streamlining has become common in the transit industry, with complete network redesigns in Houston and Columbus among the most notable.

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Volume 14, Issue 6, Posted 11:11 AM, 05.27.2021

Heights Libraries reopens to borrowers and resumes distributing the Heights Observer

After closing their doors to the public, again, in mid-November, Heights Libraries' branches were set to re-open on Feb. 16, only to be delayed one day by inclement weather. Library staff, including managers Pat Gray (Coventry Village), Kim DeNero-Ackroyd (Lee Road), Constance Dickerson (Noble Neighborhood), and Sara Phillips (University Heights), have been looking forward to welcoming in-person visitors back inside, and resuming many of the libraries' services—including once again serving as a distribution spot for the monthly Heights Observer. For those who prefer it, curbside pickup service for reserved library materials remains available. For more details about hours and services at each of Heights Libraries' four branches, visit www.heightslibrary.org.

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Volume 14, Issue 3, Posted 4:09 PM, 02.25.2021

Pick up the Heights Observer at The Stone Oven

Formerly husband and wife, and engineers, John Emerman and Tatyana Rehn have been business partners since 1995, when they opened The Stone Oven Bakery and Café in Cleveland Heights. Located at 2267 Lee Road, The Stone Oven serves fresh-baked, European-style breads and pastries, and homemade soups, salads and sandwiches. Open for takeout, the bakery is accepting orders online at www.stone-oven.com. Free parking (at all city meters, compliments of the city of Cleveland Heights), is available at the front and back of the café. While you're there, pick up a copy of the Heights Observer along with your order. You'll find the monthly publication in the rack by The Stone Oven's Lee Road entrance.

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Volume 14, Issue 1, Posted 10:20 AM, 12.29.2020

Pick up the Heights Observer at Zagara's Marketplace

The pandemic has brought about many changes for businesses, and Zagara's Marketplace is no exception. Next time you shop at Zagara's, be sure to look for the numerous renovations and upgrades owner John Zagara has made to the checkout, customer services and entry areas. The most notable change includes new checkout lanes, which will soon include three self-checkout registers. The newly installed sliding doors at the front of the building allow for a more customer-friendly and efficient handling of Zagara's online Presto Fresh Grocery orders (www.prestofreshgrocery.com). Other updates include the restrooms, signage, paint and wallcoverings, and flooring. Zagara's offers fresh produce, meats, seafood, bakery, and dairy products, along with specialized items and floral services. While you're there, pick up the latest issue of the Heights Observer on the racks at lane seven.

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Volume 13, Issue 12, Posted 11:34 AM, 12.02.2020

Heights voters pass two local ballot issues

According to not-yet-official election results posted by the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections on Nov. 4, Cleveland Heights and University Heights voters narrowly passed Issue 69, the 4.8 mill school tax levy. Cleveland Heights voters also passed Issue 6, the Cleveland Heights charter amendment.

Voters approved the school levy by a margin of just 65 votes, with 14,598 (50.11 percent) voting for the levy, and 14,533 (49.89) voting against it.

The voting margin was much wider for the other local ballot issue, the CH charter amendment, with 17,753 (85.93 percent) “yes” votes, and 2,907 (14.07) “no” votes.

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Volume 13, Issue 12, Posted 2:29 PM, 11.04.2020

Census updates in the Heights

Census outreach efforts are still underway in the Heights and across the country, with the final count deadline officially extended to Oct. 31, 2020.

The U.S. Census Bureau has temporarily suspended field efforts and door knocking in light of public health concerns, though they are scheduled to slowly resume. This extension means there are still jobs available for those interested in a temporary position as a census taker. Rates for census takers in Cuyahoga County are set at $20.50 to $22.50 per hour, and training will take plake from mid-July to early August. For more information on employment with the Census Bureau, visit www.2020census.gov/en/jobs.

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Volume 13, Issue 8, Posted 7:04 AM, 07.28.2020

First Baptist hosts monthly mobile pantry

First Baptist Church of Greater Cleveland is partnering with the Cleveland Food Bank again this summer, to serve as a mobile pantry for produce pickup. Dates for the church’s upcoming mobile pantries are June 6, July 11, and Aug. 1, from 10 a.m. to noon.

A mobile pantry is a Greater Cleveland Food Bank truck full of food that is brought to a location where clients can pick it up.

Due to COVID-19 and social distancing, distributions at the church (3630 Fairmount Blvd.), for the time being, will be drive-up only. Guests are asked to make room in their trunks prior to their arrival. A valid ID is required to participate.

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Volume 13, Issue 6, Posted 9:26 AM, 06.02.2020

CH census response below state average

The COVID-19 crisis has impacted every aspect of our lives and our community; the 2020 U.S. Census is no exception. While the goals of the Census Bureau have not changed during the pandemic, field operations have. Plans for door-to-door canvassing and census-related public events have been delayed, to be reevaluated in June. The U.S. Census Bureau is also pursuing a 120-day extension to deliver the final count.

This doesn’t mean that Cleveland Heights residents should delay in getting themselves counted. Perhaps now more than ever, residents are witnessing the many ways the city is supported by programs whose funding is based on census data; the more CH residents are counted, the more federal funding the city will receive for services in the coming decade. 

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Volume 13, Issue 5, Posted 3:05 PM, 04.27.2020

Cities of Cleveland Heights and University Heights provide COVID-19 support, updates

Given the rapidly updating news about COVID-19's impact on local communities, the cities of Cleveland Heights and University Heights are using their websites as portals for vital information.

For the foreseeable future, both cities have canceled in-person council and committee meetings, and have closed their city halls for general business. The Cleveland Heights Community Center, including the Senior Center, is also closed until further notice.

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Volume 13, Issue 4, Posted 1:04 PM, 03.17.2020

2019 Heights Observer Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking stuffers ($10.00 or less)

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too.

For the month of December, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the city of Cleveland Heights is offering free parking in each of its business districts—one more incentive to visit the brick and mortar stores featured in the Gift Guide and beyond. 

Here are some of our favorites:

Japanese incense and incense products. High-quality incense sticks with less smoke: Nag Champa, Herb & Earth, Sai Baba SUPERHIT, Nippon Kodo. ($3.00 to $7.00, Atma Center)

Brownie Player. Coaster. ($8.00, Blank Canvas CLE)

Fossilized shell heart keepsake. ($10.00, Cleveland Rocks and Beads)

Cocktail Napkins. ($6.50, Jubilee Gifts)

Frosted glass eggs. Can be paired with a wire nest. ($3.25 each, Still Point Gallery & Boutique) 

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Volume 12, Issue 11, Posted 3:09 PM, 11.01.2019

2019 Heights Observer Holiday Gift Guide

For the past 12 years, the Heights Observer has published its Holiday Gift Guide to inspire residents to shop locally for the December holidays. Cleveland Heights and University Heights abound with independent businesses—boutiques, salons, restaurants and artist collaboratives—which enhance our local character and anchor our business districts.

For the month of December, on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the city of Cleveland Heights is offering free parking in each of its business districts—one more incentive to visit the brick and mortar stores featured in the Gift Guide and beyond.

Here are some of our favorite gift options:

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Volume 12, Issue 11, Posted 3:20 PM, 11.01.2019

CH works to recover from confirmed microburst

City crews and First Energy respondents are making headway clearing debris, fixing downed utility polls and restoring power after a major storm and microburst damaged neighborhoods in Cleveland Heights and nearby suburbs on Friday, Sept. 13. The microburst—a rapidly descending wind and rain shaft caused by storm convection—was the second to hit the community in the last three years. 

The vast majority of damage occurred in the neighborhoods south of Cedar and west of Lee roads, fanning out from the Fairmount Boulevard, Coventry Road and Scarborough Road intersection. 

As a result, the Heights Community Congress (HCC) Home & Garden Tour, scheduled for Sept. 14, was canceled. The homes and yards featured on this year's tour were all located in the historic Coventry and Fairmount neighborhoods. Money raised from the annual event supports HCC’s mission to promote and safeguard fair housing practices in Cleveland Heights. 

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Volume 12, Issue 10, Posted 4:06 PM, 09.17.2019

This land is your land

National Public Lands Day has been celebrated on the fourth Saturday of September for the past 25 years as a day of volunteerism on which people give back to the environment. This year Lower Shaker Lake will be site of one of those volunteer opportunities Saturday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. 

The lake has actually been a volunteer site most Sunday mornings since May 2018. Much of the vegetation around it is a monoculture of aggressive non-native plant species.

Friends of Lower Lake, a volunteer project of the Doan Brook Watershed Partnership, has been removing and replacing invasive plants with native trees, shrubs, flowers, ferns and sedges. Most of the work, supervised by experienced volunteers, occurs at the Canoe Club site behind the wood chip pile on South Park Boulevard. 

The 1½ acre public parkland at the man-made lake has 300-year-old oak trees and groomed paths for walkers, runners, birders, bicyclists and botanists. It’s free and open to the public.

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Volume 12, Issue 9, Posted 2:05 PM, 09.02.2019

Elected-mayor petition drive exceeds goal

Citizens for an Elected Mayor (CEM) delivered to the city 3,962 signatures on petitions to put a charter amendment on the Nov. 6 ballot that, if approved, would create the office of a full-time elected mayor in Cleveland Heights for the first time since the city was chartered in 1921.

Susanna Niermann O'Neil, city council acting clerk and assistant city manager, accepted the petitions on June 17 from members of CEM. The grassroots local ballot issue committee had planned to collect at least 3,200 signatures to help ensure it reached the 2,200 valid signatures needed.

“This fast and impressive show of support assures us that citizens eagerly want to be able to elect their own mayor,” said Tony Cuda, CEM campaign manager. “We look forward to the issue being placed on the ballot and working with volunteers to ensure it passes.”

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Volume 12, Issue 7, Posted 9:36 AM, 06.18.2019

Elected-mayor proponents seek signatures to place issue on ballot this fall

Volunteers will be fanning out across Cleveland Heights on Saturday, June 8, and Sunday, June 9, inviting residents to support putting a city charter amendment on the Nov. 6 ballot that, if approved, would create the office of a full-time Cleveland Heights mayor, directly elected by citizens.

Since May 17, more than 40 volunteers for Citizens for an Elected Mayor (CEM) have collected more than 2,000 signatures. To place the charter amendment on the ballot, just over 2,100 signatures of registered voters are needed—10 percent of the number of voters in the last election.

CEM plans to collect at least 3,200 signatures before submitting them for verification. If the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections certifies enough signatures, city council [will] approve an ordinance to put the proposed amendment on the ballot.

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Volume 12, Issue 7, Posted 2:34 PM, 06.07.2019

Last minute Heights gift ideas

Each year, the Heights Observer urges residents to support local businesses, and think of them when shopping—especially during the holidays.

For many of them, purchases made at the end of the year make the difference between turning a profit or operating at a loss.

Here, we've listed a few last-minute gift ideas, to provide inspiration as you search for the perfect gift—hopefully right here in the Heights. 

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Custom Floral Arrangements. ($45.00 to $150.00, Stems Fleur) 

One-Year Subscription. ($28.00, "Funny Times") 

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Volume 11, Issue 12, Posted 5:13 PM, 11.29.2018

2018 Heights Observer Holiday Gift Guide: For the person who has it all

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

Yoga Gift Card. ($59.00 to $1,180, Atma Center)

Stainless Steel Wallets. This supple wallet fits in a man's front pocket, yet holds credit cards, ID, bills & miscellaneous items. ($68.00, S’Wonderful Gifts)

Geometric Mosaic Necklace. Made of Swarovski crystals and other materials in an intricate design. ($208.00, S’Wonderful Gifts)

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Volume 11, Issue 11, Posted 10:41 AM, 10.30.2018

2018 Heights Observer Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts more than $150.00

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

One-Year Pass. Give friends and family the gift of play at Family Connections. ($175.00, Family Connections, www.familyconnections1.org)

Four-Drawer Jewelry Chest. Shown in maple. ($167.00, Eastwood Furniture) 

Personal Training Fitness Package. ($150.00 and up, 3Sport Training & Conditioning, LLC)

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Volume 11, Issue 11, Posted 10:41 AM, 10.30.2018

2018 Heights Observer Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts from $50.00 to $150.00

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

Three-Month Pass. Give friends and family the gift of play at Family Connections. ($80.00, Family Connections, www.familyconnections1.org)

Leather Wrap Belts. ($78.00, Blush Boutique)

Plaid Shawls. ($42.00 to $55.00, Blush Boutique)

Sing and Swing Gift Certificate. Good towards a Musical birthday party for children up to 5 or Music Together classes. ($50.00 and up, Sing and Swing, www.singandswing.org)

Para Rubber Yoga Mat. ($86.95, Atma Center) 

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Volume 11, Issue 11, Posted 10:41 AM, 10.30.2018

2018 Heights Observer Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts less than $50.00

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites.

Sweet Memories Conversation Cards. Large-type, over-sized cards with 52 questions to stimulate thoughtful conversations among families and friends. (Holiday price - $15.00, Stone Oven Bakery and Mac’s Backs - Books on Coventry)

Grog Shop Gift Certificate. ($30.00 and up, The Grog Shop)

Grog Shop Merchandise. T-shirts and hoodies. ($15.00 to $30.00, the Grog Shop) 

Plaid Scarves (under $50.00, Blush Boutique) 

Cleveland Cinemas Gift Card. Can be used for admission or concessions at any of our locations, including the Cedar Lee Theatre. Available for purchase at the box office or online at clevelandcinemas.com ($10.00 and up, Cleveland Cinemas). 

Tulsi Mala. A beaded meditation necklace. ($25.00, Atma Center) 

Alpha Twin Balls Set. ($30.95, Atma Center) 

Batik Yoga Mat Bag ($36.95, Atma Center)

One-Year Subscription. ($28.00, "The Funny Times")

Bakery Gift Cards. (Any denomination, Luna Bakery & Cafe) 

T-Shirts and Travel Mugs. ($10.00 to $25.00, Luna Bakery & Cafe) 

Giclée Print Earrings. Created by a Colorado-based photographer, these unique, lightweight and stylish earrings are actually tiny handcrafted UV laminated giclée prints. ($21.95 to $36.95, S’Wonderful Gifts) 

Good Luck Socks. These colorful and whimsical socks, for men and women, are made from combed cotton with mesh vents and a reinforced heel and toe. ($14.00, S’Wonderful Gifts)

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Volume 11, Issue 11, Posted 10:41 AM, 10.30.2018

2018 Heights Observer Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking stuffers ($10.00 or less)

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

Locally-Made Lip Balms. ($6.00, Blush Boutique) 

Bennington Candle Tins. ($10.00, Atma Center) 

Five-Piece Macaron Boxes. ($10.50, Luna Bakery & Cafe) 

Eco Cubes. These biodegradable pine cubes contain seeds and growing media, and are available in a variety of flowers. ($8.95, S’Wonderful Gifts)

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Volume 11, Issue 11, Posted 10:40 AM, 10.30.2018

Volunteers needed for the Heights Music Hop

Volunteer sign-up is open for the 6th Annual Heights Music Hop, which runs Sept. 13-15 in the Coventry Village, Cedar-Fairmount and Cedar-Lee business districts. 

Volunteers work in blocks of 2 to 3 hours, and serve as ambassadors for the event and community. Specific roles include:

  • Staffing music venues to answer questions and assist regular workers at the venue
  • Maintaining a presence throughout the business districts to answer questions and pass out maps
  • Helping with musician check-ins
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Volume 11, Issue 9, Posted 12:15 PM, 08.21.2018

Jill Barr remembered for her kindness and compassion

Jill Barr’s smile was legendary. Spreading from her mouth to her eyes, that smile was quick to be offered to anyone who needed it. Her gentle kindness, her bottomless well of generosity, marked a life that was much too short.

The University Heights mother of three died from complications of pneumonia in early March, at the age of 47. But Barr’s legacy lives on in the community that she touched with her grace, selflessness and authenticity.

“I think Jill had a genuine connection with every person she met,” said friend Kristen Sears. “She did things quietly, but she impacted so many people in so many different ways.”

From her work as special projects coordinator at Cleveland Heights’ Church of the Saviour (CoTS), to her fierce advocacy of CH-UH public schools, to her role as honorary mother (and chauffeur) to countless people’s children, Barr “did the work of five people, at least,” said Sears.

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Volume 11, Issue 5, Posted 10:20 AM, 04.17.2018

Peace Lutheran Church will host two fall events

Peace Lutheran Church, the consolidation of Hope Lutheran and Bethlehem Lutheran churches, is planning two fall events—Permaculture Day on Saturday, Nov. 4, and Novemberfest on Saturday, Nov. 11.

The church's garden committee is offering a free half-day permaculture session on Nov. 4, led by Tom Gibson, a local expert in sustainable and self-sufficient agricultural ecosystems. The committee plans to use the principles of permaculture to lay out planting beds for the church’s new memorial garden. The class starts at 9:30 a.m. Coffee and other beverages will be provided. 

 

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Volume 10, Issue 11, Posted 10:41 AM, 10.31.2017

Klein/Mooney family mourns daughter

Kayleigh Mooney could light up a whole room. “She was such a dynamo,” said her father, Kevin. “She has a big, big personality, almost too big for this world.”

He switches back and forth between present and past tense when discussing his 15-year-old daughter, who died on Aug. 17. While her physical self is gone, her presence is very much alive for those who loved her, including her father, her mother, Jessica Klein, and her 12-year-old brother, Nathaniel.

“I make it through each day by walking in her light,” said Kevin. “It’s the only thing that sustains me.”

Jessica described her daughter as gentle but super smart: “She was such a deep thinker. And really, really funny.”

“Parenting her was an amazing experience,” said Kevin. “She was so easy to love.”

Kayleigh’s friends feel the same way. Luisa Soreo, a sophomore at Heights High, met Kayleigh in seventh grade at Roxboro. “I was the new girl, and Kayleigh was surrounded by friends she’d had since kindergarten. But she took me in and was my first real friend. We bonded and could talk about anything.”

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Volume 10, Issue 10, Posted 2:20 PM, 09.29.2017

Heights LWV working to slay the gerrymander

Imagine if the Indians won the World Series and, as part of their prize, they got to make all of the league rules for the next 10 years. They could have all home games, pick the umpires, and make future rules impossible to undo. Such a prize could eventually destroy the sport. This is the outcome of political gerrymandering.

Gerrymandered districts are drawn to favor one political party over another. Voters that disagree with the party in charge are either packed into as few districts as possible or spread out to dilute their voting power. In this way, politicians can pick their voters and create “safe seats” for themselves.

The practice began in 1812 when Massachusetts Governor Elbridge Gerry approved a congressional map that heavily favored his political party. Today, software that can predict voting patterns down to the household has made gerrymandering extremely powerful. Many political analysts believe that “safe seat” districts contribute to the polarization and the dysfunctional gridlock in Washington today.

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Volume 10, Issue 9, Posted 2:39 PM, 08.31.2017

Summer Shopping Guide: Books and Media

Ohio Know Your State Activity Book, features more than 250 pages of interactive learning activities that guide kids (ages 8–12) through the history and geography of Ohio. ($14.99, S’Wonderful Gifts)

Beguiled By The Wild: The Art Of Charley Harper presents more than 110 serigraphs accompanied by intriguing, pun-filled captions. This book pays homage to one of Ohio's most beloved artists, Charley Harper, who used simple shapes, sophisticated patterns and striking colors to capture the essence of any animal. ($50.00, S’Wonderful Gifts)

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Volume 10, Issue 7, Posted 11:09 AM, 06.29.2017

Carla Bailey helps refugee students find their way

Imagine this: Your father was killed by rebels in front of your eyes, and you fled war with your mother and seven siblings. You have lived in a refugee camp in a foreign country since you were a toddler. Your mother could not afford to send you to school, and each day you prayed that your family would have enough to eat. Finally, at age 20, you—along with your now elderly mother and 18-year-old sister—are resettled in Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

This is the reality of one young refugee who is making a home in our community.

For the past six years, Carla Bailey, the district's refugee school-community liaison, has helped refugees like this young man understand our educational system and figure out the quickest, most efficient way to learn English, complete high school, and move onto the next phase of education and life.

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Volume 10, Issue 6, Posted 10:39 AM, 05.30.2017

Remembering Alicia Marotta Linihan

Alicia Marotta Linihan, co-owner of Marotta’s, the popular Lee Road restaurant, died on Dec. 5. She was 43 and the mother of four children: Maggie, 10; Libby, 9; Brendan, 7; and Mary, 5. A funeral mass was held on Dec. 9 at St. Dominic Church in Shaker Heights, and she was interred at Lake View Cemetery.

Marotta Linihan owned Marotta’s with her husband, Brian Linihan. The two met in the early 1990s, while working at Salvatore’s, in Cleveland’s Little Italy, and married in August of 2002. The couple traveled to Italy every year to work on their cooking skills.

The Linihans opened Marotta’s in the fall of 2000, naming the restaurant after Alicia’s father, who had died in 1999.

Marotta Linihan grew up in Cleveland Heights, and became interested in cooking at an early age.

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Volume 10, Issue 1, Posted 11:04 AM, 12.13.2016

Voters pass Heights school levy and CH charter amendments

In the Nov. 8 election, voters passed the 5.5 mill CH-UH City School District tax levy, Issue 109, by a margin of 2,162 votes, with 53.9 percent of voters (14,932) voting for the levy, and 46.1 percent (12,770) voting against it.

Cleveland Heights voters also passed Issues 51 and 52—amendments to the Cleveland Heights City Charter—related to deadlines for Cleveland Heights City Council candidates.

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Volume 9, Issue 12, Posted 10:46 AM, 11.09.2016

Cleveland Water provides transition information for Heights customers

Beginning on Jan. 1, Cleveland Heights households and businesses, along with about 700 University Heights households, will become direct service customers of Cleveland Water.

For 101 years, Cleveland Heights was a master meter community, purchasing water from Cleveland and reselling it at a marked-up rate. Water was a source of revenue for the city until recently, when infrastructure deterioration caused the Cleveland Heights Water Department to operate at increasing losses.

Several hundred Heights residents gathered at the Cleveland Heights Community Center on Oct. 26 and 29, to hear Cleveland Water Commissioner Alex Margevicius discuss the upcoming transition. (Business owners attended a separate session on Oct. 28.)

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Volume 9, Issue 12, Posted 11:04 AM, 11.29.2016

2016 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: For the person who has it all

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

GIFTS FOR THE PERSON WHO HAS IT ALL

Commission an original portrait of a furry family member for a good cause. Heights Arts Pet Project offers custom pet portraits in an array of sizes, with part of the commission fee benefiting one of five local animal welfare organizations. ($50.00 and up, Heights Arts)

Hear Cleveland’s world-class musicians perform four chamber music concerts in spectacular private homes and unique public venues with a full-season subscription to the Close Encounters Chamber Music Series. ($180.00 and up, Heights Arts)

Lampe Berger home fragrances. ($33.99 to $88.99, Bremec on the Heights Garden Center)

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Volume 9, Issue 11, Posted 1:23 PM, 11.02.2016

2016 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts more than $150

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

GIFTS MORE THAN $150

Mark Yasenchack’s ceramic mosaic wall plaque is inscribed with a poem on the back: “Far off we could see the few trees against the sky…” ($175.00, Heights Arts)

Cleveland jewelry designer Grace Chin's one-of-a-kind pendants and earrings, made from sterling silver and semi-precious stones, reflect her interest in nature and architecture. ($150.00 and up, Heights Arts)

One-of-a-kind necklaces by Nina’s Hangups. ($45.00 to $325.00, S'Wonderful Gifts)

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Volume 9, Issue 11, Posted 1:22 PM, 11.02.2016

2016 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts from $50 to $150

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

GIFTS FROM $50 TO $150

Freshwater pearl and sterling silver jewelry by Genevieve Schwartz. ($50.00 and up, Heights Arts)

Giclée prints of Bonnie Dolin's vibrant pastel drawings capture the vitality of Cleveland’s scenic neighborhoods. ($125.00 each, Heights Arts)

Custom wreaths and arrangements. (Prices vary, Bremec on the Heights Garden Center)

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Volume 9, Issue 11, Posted 1:22 PM, 11.02.2016

2016 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts less than $50

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

GIFTS LESS THAN $50

Wines by the bottle, featuring pictures of Cleveland, including the limited release Cleveland Rocks Christmas Red, available now. ($25.00 and less, CLE Urban Winery)

Enjoy holiday cheer with ceramic mugs handcrafted by William Brouillard and Susan Gallagher. ($30.00 to $40.00 each, Heights Arts)

Blown-glass swirled bowls in a variety of sizes add a festive touch to any setting, by Shayna Roth Pentecost. ($40.00 and up, Heights Arts)

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Volume 9, Issue 11, Posted 1:21 PM, 11.02.2016

2016 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking stuffers ($10 or less)

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

STOCKING STUFFERS ($10 OR LESS)

Quotable notebooks with letterpress covers to inspire and engage, from fourfishink. ($8 each, Heights Arts)

Wood and metal magnets celebrate our town. ($5.00 each, Heights Arts)

In Case of Emojincy adhesive bandages. ($5.95, S'Wonderful Gifts)

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Volume 9, Issue 11, Posted 1:19 PM, 11.02.2016

Ohio Arts Council honors eight Heights artists

On April 20, the Ohio Arts Council (OAC) honored eight Heights artists with its 2016 Individual Excellence Award. The awards, given to 75 Ohio artists chosen from 392 applicants, recognize artists for the exceptional merit of a body of their work that advances or exemplifies the discipline and the larger artistic community, and provide support to the artists' growth and development, recognizing their work in the state and beyond.

The artists were judged via an open-panel review by other professional artists, and on the merit of completed works. Each winner received a $5,000 grant for “quality arts experiences that strengthen Ohio artistically, educationally and culturally,” according to OAC's May 3 press release which announced the winners.

Awards are made in six categories: choreography, criticism, fiction/nonfiction, music composition, playwriting and poetry.

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Volume 9, Issue 6, Posted 10:04 AM, 05.10.2016

Alan Freed memorial celebration set for Lake View Cemetery

A memorial celebration honoring the life of Alan Freed, the Cleveland disc jockey who coined the term “rock 'n' roll” and who put on the nation’s first rock concert, will take place at Lake View Cemetery on Saturday, May 7, at 1 p.m. Freed died in 1965 at the age of 43, and his ashes will be interred at Lake View on the day of the ceremony. The public is invited to attend the event.

Steven Van Zandt of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band will deliver the keynote address at the ceremony. The Drifters, a soul group that scored such hits as “Money Honey,” “Such a Night,” “Some Kind of Wonderful” and “Under the Boardwalk,” will perform at the ceremony. In addition, Little Anthony, of Little Anthony and the Imperials, is expected to perform, as is Jimmy Clanton, a rock singer from the 1960's. Famous disc jockey and rock historian Norm N. Nite will serve as the emcee at the event.

Freed came to fame in the early 1950s, when he was a DJ for WJW radio in Cleveland. In 1952, he produced the first Moondog Coronation Ball at the Cleveland Arena. That show is widely regarded as the very first rock 'n' roll concert.

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Volume 9, Issue 6, Posted 9:44 AM, 05.03.2016

In memoriam: Grandmaster Ronald Balas

I first met Ronald Balas (Dec. 9, 1930 to Feb. 13, 2016) in September 1966 at the Cleveland Heights YMCA on Lee Road. He was teaching martial arts classes. I was 5 years old. This meeting was the beginning of a 49-year relationship.

Ron has been a constant presence in my life for the past half-century. For thousands, he was the founder and Grandmaster of Tai Shin Doh Karate. He traveled the world to teach this art form and is widely known and respected for this achievement. But he was so much more—a father, husband, brother, grandfather, and a friend to all.

Ron had a gift. He would make you believe that you were the most important person in the world. He shared this gift with countless people who came to him.

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Volume 9, Issue 4, Posted 9:25 AM, 03.28.2016

Oakwood Clubhouse contents go up for sale

If you're interested in acquiring any of the furniture or equipment from the former clubhouse of Oakwood Country Club, this is your chance.

Greenwald Antiques has been contracted to liquidate the contents of the building, according to Robin Greenwald-Gilbert, co-owner of the business.

The sale will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, April 6, through Friday, April 8, at the former Oakwood Club, 1516 Warrensville Center Road.

The building and grounds are now owned by Hebrew Academy, which plans to convert the clubhouse into a boys’ high school and administrative offices. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the capital campaign for the construction project, according to information from Greenwald Antiques.

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Volume 9, Issue 4, Posted 9:53 AM, 03.22.2016

Local teacher realizes dream with purchase of summer camp

Cleveland Heights native Joe Mendes has left his teaching job in the Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District to realize a lifelong dream to run a summer camp. He is the new owner of Camp Firebird-Roosevelt on Leesville Lake, 90 miles south of here.

Many Heights residents have fond memories of the overnight camp, which for years has hosted a steady stream of children from the area. But Mendes will have his work cut out for him—attendance has dwindled in the past decade under the previous management.

Mendes is undaunted. “That’s why I was able to afford to buy it,” he said, adding that he’s been able to assemble a team of expert advisors to guide him.

The deal was struck quickly. Mendes learned on Sept. 9 that the camp was for sale, after the unexpected death of owner Andrew Schwartz—who turned out to be a childhood friend of Mendes from their own shared camp experience in northern Wisconsin. The transaction was done by early November.

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Volume 8, Issue 12, Posted 10:34 AM, 12.01.2015

2015 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: For the person who has it all

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

GIFTS FOR THE PERSON WHO HAS IT ALL

The Bubble Ring in 14K yellow gold and sapphires. ($1,925.00, Antrobus Designs) 

Cushion Diamond Pendant in 14K white gold and diamonds. ($15,000.00, Antrobus Designs)

Enjoy an entire season of Close Encounters. Hear Cleveland’s world-class musicians perform four intimate chamber music concerts in spectacular private homes and unique public venues. ($180.00 and up, Heights Arts)

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Volume 8, Issue 11, Posted 12:17 PM, 10.30.2015

2015 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts more than $150

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

GIFTS MORE THAN $150

Pair of Guardians by the Foundry Woodprints. Each is 14" by 36." ($300.00, In The 216)

Funky-Shaped Bangle Set. A set of five handmade bangles in Sterling Silver. ($248.00, Antrobus Designs)

Pink LOVE Pendant in 14K solid pink gold. ($320.00, Antrobus Designs) 

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Volume 8, Issue 11, Posted 12:16 PM, 10.30.2015

2015 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts from $50 to $150

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

GIFTS FROM $50 TO $150

Stackable Silver Rings. Set of five rings; hammered, polished and brushed. ($115.00, Antrobus Designs)

Amethyst Drop Earrings. Sterling silver with faceted stones. ($145.00, Antrobus Designs)

Sterling Silver Star of David. ($110.00, Antrobus Designs).

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Volume 8, Issue 11, Posted 12:15 PM, 10.30.2015

2015 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts less than $50

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

GIFTS LESS THAN $50

One-year subscription to Funny Times. ($26.00 for 12 issues)

Poinsettias, amaryllis, potted succulents, Austrian crystals, fashion scarves, paperwhite gift box, natural wreaths, Bohemian watches and starry night wraps. (Bremec on the Heights Garden Center) 

Paper calendar. Each month features one of Cleveland Heights artist Kate Snow’s original linoleum block designs. Printed on a 1950s Vandercook letterpress. ($24.00, Heights Arts)

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Volume 8, Issue 11, Posted 12:14 PM, 10.30.2015

2015 Heights Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking stuffers ($10 or less)

Find something for everyone on your list at the many independent merchants in the Heights. Most will gift wrap or ship your items, too. Here are some of our favorites:

STOCKING STUFFERS ($10 OR LESS)

How to Knit Socks that Fit by Donna Druchunas. The book title says it all. ($8.95, Mac's Backs)

I Love You Around the World by Lisa Swerling and Ralph Lazar. This book teaches how to say "te amo" around the world. ($9.95, Mac's Backs) 

One "Baby & Me" session. This informal weekly program encourages new parents to get acquainted, share experiences, find support and gain information from one another and staff members. ($5.00, Family Connections)

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Volume 8, Issue 11, Posted 12:12 PM, 10.30.2015

Free music and entertainment festival expected to bring thousands to the Heights

The Heights Music Hop returns for its third annual festival this Saturday, Sept. 19. Join the fun as festivalgoers pack the sidewalks, restaurants, bars and shops of the Cedar Lee Business District for this live music event. More than 18 venues along Lee Road in Cleveland Heights will host live music of varying genres, including rock, folk, jazz, hip-hop, classical, funk, and just about everything in between. 

The Heights Music Hop is free and open to all. A ticketed after-party, ages 18 and older, will take place at 11 p.m. at The BottleHouse Brewery, featuring the music of popular local group, The Admirables. After-party tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door.

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Volume 8, Issue 10, Posted 1:57 PM, 09.17.2015

Lee Road merchants offer food and drink specials for Heights Music Hop

Lee Road merchants are gearing up for the 3rd Annual Heights Music Hop, Saturday, Sept. 19, by offering food and drink specials for music lovers who populate neighborhood restaurants, bars and shops. Organizers expect the street to be flush with attendees for this year's free music festival. More than 2,000 hop-goers attended last year's event.

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Volume 8, Issue 10, Posted 1:05 PM, 09.17.2015

Planning for Eastside Greenway advances

A recently concluded study highlights the potential for a network of bicycle and pedestrian facilities linking the City of Cleveland’s east side with 19 other municipalities, including Cleveland Heights and University Heights and all of their neighboring cities. The Eastside Greenway, as the proposed network is known, would increase connectivity in eastern Cuyahoga County and enable greater access to active transportation and recreation. The study’s soon-to-be-released final report will include infrastructure recommendations tailored to major routes and amenities, and a strategy for design and implementation.

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Volume 8, Issue 9, Posted 8:09 PM, 08.31.2015

Heights business plans local events for Tibetan monks

Cleveland Heights-based Loving Hands Yoga and Reiki is planning events for the Cleveland leg of a national tour for a group of Tibetan Buddhist monks. The events will be held throughout the Cleveland area Sept. 21–26. Presentations are non-religious, and are suitable for people of all faiths and traditions.

Judith Eugene, a Cleveland Heights native and the founder of Loving Hands Yoga and Reiki, is seeking businesses, schools, churches and other organizations that are interested in holding events at their facility. Eugene organized a similar tour last fall. The events were well attended, and most sold out.

Events include lectures, debates, healing rituals, and empowerment ceremonies. School programs for grades K–12 include discussions, chanting demonstrations and performance of traditional Tibetan instruments. The monks are also available to create beautiful works of art including sand mandalas, butter sculptures and calligraphy. They also perform blessings of homes, businesses, and public buildings. There are suggested donations for each event, but no one is turned away for inability to pay. All donations are tax-deductible.

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Volume 8, Issue 8, Posted 12:13 PM, 07.21.2015

'End of Watch' ceremony to honor fallen police officer

An "End of Watch" ceremony in memory of Cleveland Heights Police Officer Thomas F. Patton II, who died in the line of duty five years ago, will be held at 7:30 p.m. this Friday, March 13, at the Police Memorial near the front door of Cleveland Heights City Hall.

The ceremony will last about 20 minutes and is open to the public. It is being held by the Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association in conjunction with the CHPD.

Patton suffered a fatal heart attack while chasing an assault suspect on March 13, 2010 in the area of Coventry and Mayfield roads. He had been a member of the force for nine years.

Patton is one of four Cleveland Heights police officers who have died in the line of duty. The others are:

  • Capt. Edward B. Connolly, shot while responding to a burglary; died Sept. 8, 1920.
  • Patrolman Norman C. Reker, shot while responding to a robbery; died Feb. 21, 1948.
  • Officer Jason West, shot while responding to a disturbance; died May 26, 2007.

As part of its public service mission to the community and the police department, the newly formed Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association has begun organizing End of Watch ceremonies on the anniversary of each fallen officer's death. The first such ceremony was held last month in Reker's memory.

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Volume 8, Issue 4, Posted 6:05 PM, 03.09.2015

Brennan's 'colony' comes together over T-shirts and a beer

For three hours on Saturday, July 19, it was hard just to get in the door at The Tavern Company—the Lee Road pub that Jim Brennan managed before buying the Colony in 1991. Now owned by Chris Armington, himself a 12-year Brennan employee, The Tavern Company served that night as the location where people could pick up pre-ordered “We Are A Colony” T-shirts and gather yet again to remember Jim "JB" Brennan, who was shot to death in his business across the street on June 30.

“I’m still in shock,” Armington said. “It keeps me up at night. And there are so many triggers that make me think of JB. Like, he drove a (Toyota) 4Runner and now any time I see one out of the corner of my eye, I expect I’m going to see him.”

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Volume 7, Issue 8, Posted 11:57 AM, 07.31.2014

Family-to-Family event shines light on needs of youth in foster care

When life doesn’t go as planned, the Heights Family to Family Collaborative is there to help. Founded in 2006, it is one of 14 partnerships funded by Cuyahoga County to provide families emergency assistance, prevent family disruption, and minimize family involvement with child protective services. The Heights Collaborative, housed at the Centers for Families and Children at 1941 South Taylor Road in Cleveland Heights, mobilizes community-based resources to support families where they live. It works with families who reside in Cleveland Heights, University Heights, Beachwood, Hunting Valley, Moreland Hills, Orange, Pepper Pike, Shaker Heights, Woodmere Village and the University Circle area.

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Volume 7, Issue 5, Posted 1:56 PM, 05.05.2014

Afterschool, community activities canceled due to weather

The Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School district has canceled all of its afterschool and evening activities for Wednesday, March 12, due to severe weather conditions.  All field trips and meetings are also canceled. Aftercare will remain open in all school buildings.

Reaching Heights has postponed the 23rd annual Adult Spelling Bee, which was scheduled to take place this evening at Heights High. A new date has not yet been set.

The Cleveland Heights Planning Commission meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. at Cleveland Heights City Hall will take place as planned.

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Volume 7, Issue 4, Posted 1:38 PM, 03.12.2014