Non-profit

Editor’s Note: Johnny Appleseed will be one of five living history presentations that will be part of Ohio Chautauqua 2013: When Ohio Was the Western Frontier, set for June 25-29 at Lakewood Park. You can hear more about Johnny’s story on Saturday, June 29 at 7 p.m. under the big red and white tent at Lakewood Park. To find out more about the entire slate of Chautauqua events, visit lakewoodhistory.org.

One of Ohio’s most famous legends is Johnny Appleseed’s story. Johnny Appleseed was in fact a real man, whose true name was John Chapman. The story of this farmer who fueled the apple industries of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Indiana is quite similar to the popular folklore.

Born in 1774 in Massachusetts, John Chapman was the son of Nathaniel Chapman, who was both a farmer and Revolutionary soldier. As a young man, Nathaniel apprenticed John to a local orchard where he absorbed all of his knowledge about apples. When he turned 18, he left Massachusetts for the west side of Pennsylvania.

For the 15th consecutive year, Hospice of the Western Reserve will host Together We Can, a children’s bereavement day camp, at Red Oak Camp, 9057 Kirtland-Chardon Road in scenic Kirtland. This year’s camp is scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, August 6-8, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Space is limited and registration is required by July 1.

Each year, up to 60 campers between the ages of six and 14 who have experienced the death of a loved one spend three days in this beautiful natural setting interacting with other children who have also had someone special die. 

“There’s nothing better than seeing all these kids who have experienced so many different losses come together in a beautiful setting to share stories, learn new ways to handle their grief, and have fun with other kids who understand what they’re going through,” said Karen Hatfield, counseling team leader at the Elisabeth Severance Prentiss Bereavement Center.

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) Cleveland is planning to open a fifth Ozanam Center food pantry, thanks to proceeds from its inaugural benefit held on May 4 at St. Basil the Great in Brecksville. Some 170 attendees, including dignitaries, clergy members, sponsors and volunteers from the Society’s participating parishes attended the fundraiser, which generated more than $9,000 for Northeast Ohio’s poor. Lakewood residents Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald and his wife, Shannon, served as honorary co-chairs of the evening, which also honored SVDP’s many volunteers.

Downtown Lakewood will be jamming July 13 at the Fourth Annual Lakewood Summer Meltdown from 4-10 p.m. on Detroit Avenue between Arthur and Marlowe Avenues. Presented by LakewoodAlive and title sponsor Melt Bar & Grilled, the Meltdown is the best of family fun, adult entertainment and healthy living all rolled into a summer festival. 

The former StreetWalk has evolved into the “Healthy Lifestyle Festival” a free, interactive, family-friendly event that encourage families to exercise, eat well, and take advantage of summer weather. “The event combines the best of elements of Lakewood,” said Ian Andrews, LakewoodAlive Executive Director. “This includes enjoying a summer afternoon in a walkable, vibrant Downtown District, engaging families, healthy food and wellness, and entertainment.” The festival will showcase over 40 local vendors ranging from yoga to football, CrossFit to ballet along with the famous Water Moose.

Cornucopia, Inc., a northeast Ohio nonprofit that provides vocational training for people with disabilities and the owner/operator of Nature’s Bin, a full service natural foods market in Lakewood, is pleased to announce that Scott Duennes, its Executive Director, has been named a finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year 2013 Award in Northeast Ohio. The awards program recognizes high-growth entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence and extraordinary success in such areas as innovation, financial performance, and personal commitment to their businesses and communities. The finalists were selected from over 90 nominations by a panel of independent judges. Award winners will be announced at a special gala event on June 27, 2013. Regional award winners go on to compete at the national level.

It’s time for an evening filled with DJ entertainment, open bar drinks, appetizers and fantastic raffle baskets, all while helping our furry friends! The Citizens Committee for the Lakewood Animal Shelter (CCLAS) is sponsoring its ninth annual ‘Hair of the Dog’ Happy Hour and Silent Auction on Thursday, May 23.

As always, 100% of the proceeds will benefit the animals in the community of Lakewood and allow us to continue our low-cost spay and neuter program. 

Here are the detail you need to know to be a part of this awesome event!

• When: Thursday, May 23 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
• Where: Around the Corner, 18616 Detroit Ave, Lakewood
• Admission: $25 per person (includes open bar and appetizers)

The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Early Childhood PTA are excited to once again host the popular Meet the Trucks event on Saturday, June 1st from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The event will be held at Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Avenue, and is free and open to the public.  

Several of the trucks and vehicles in the City's fleet will be on hand to explore. They include an aerial truck, dump truck, refuse truck, fire truck, police car, police motorcycle, SWAT vehicles and more. In addition to the trucks, there are many other fun activities to explore! There will be bounce houses, a DJ, raffles, crafts and balloon twisters. Jungle Bob will be presenting two free shows and food will be available. While supplies last, there will be free popcorn and bagels. There will also be drinks, hamburgers, snow cones and more available to purchase.

On the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie, it’s fitting to remember Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s most famous quote: “We have met the enemy and they are ours; two ships, two brigs, one schooner and one sloop.”

Perry will be among five people giving first-person historical characterizations during Ohio Chautauqua 2013: "When Ohio Was the Western Frontier," at Lakewood Park, June 25-29.

Ohio Chautauqua is a traveling show that presents history in a compelling form that people of all ages will love. Lakewood is the first of five stops in the state for the event; the scholars-in-residence will interact with the public as themselves and as their chosen historical figures.

Over 150 supporters turned out for North Cast Health Ministry’s first-ever Gospel Brunch at Vosh Lakewood on Sunday, April 21, 2013. The joyous voices of Greater Cleveland gospel groups “One Voice” and “The Tralalas” rang from the rafters. Both groups donated their time and talents to benefit North Coast Health Ministry, the Lakewood-based charitable health center serving the low-income uninsured.

On Sunday May 19, 2013, The People of Lakewood United Methodist Church and the Citizens of Lakewood Ohio are invited to join together to change lives. We will join with other United Methodists around the globe to change the world on May 19, 2013.

Change the World is a movement to connect United Methodists in service with simple acts of kindness to build community locally and to fight malaria globally.

Lakewood United Methodist Church will participate by joining with the Lakewood Department of Aging and Lakewood Alive to go to homes around our community and do light repairs, yard work such as mow lawns, clean and prune flowerbeds and plant flowers.

Over $40,000 from the Lakewood-Rocky River Rotary Foundation will be used to provide scholarships, recognize student achievement, purchase dictionaries, and fund grant requests made by Lakewood and Rocky River community organizations.

A typical college class consists of lectures, quizzes, exams, and lots of homework. And while that classroom drudgery is necessary and rewarding, Julia Millman, a 2009 graduate of Lakewood High School, is enrolled in a much more hands-on and unique class called Projects in Marketing 

The class has organized into a working marketing agency, called ProsInMotion, and is working with Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to take a significant bite out of hunger.

According to Julia, “I used to think food banks were small time operations run out of someone’s garage, but after a visit to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank my outlook changed completely.”  

Feeding over 120,000 people in the Pittsburgh area each month, the Food Bank is a the largest food assistance agency in southwestern Pennsylvania. After learning how many people--children, seniors and working families-- go hungry in this area, ProsInMotion decided it wanted to take action against hunger and encourage the rest of the Pitt campus to get involved as well.

Happy spring from the Hens in Lakewood Committee! We are highlighting another fine Lakewood "hen hopeful" so that Lakewood neighbors can learn about who wants hens and why. Here is another wonderful Lakewood native sharing her point of view on the popular issue of responsible hen-keeping in Lakewood.

What street do you live on? Cranford Ave.

How long have you lived in Lakewood? I grew up in Lakewood and moved back in 2011.

Why do you choose to live in Lakewood? I live in Lakewood for a few reasons. I grew up here and loved it, and I still think Lakewood has the best features compared to the rest of the west side suburbs. I like that Lakewood is socioeconomically and culturally diverse, and that nearly everything I need is biking distance. Also, I've got a big backyard for gardening and wonderful neighbors.

Ganley Ford West and Friends of the Lakewood Dog Park, Inc. are partnering to raise up to $6,000 for Lakewood Dog Park as part of Ford Motor Company's Drive 4 UR Community program. On one day only, Saturday, May 11, 2013, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., for every person who takes the wheel and completes a test-drive, Ford will donate $20 to FLDP.

Lakewood residents and neighbors from our surrounding communities are needed to help Ganley Ford West and dog park members reach their goal of 300 test drives.

Following their test-drive, participants may want to linger at the dog park to visit with volunteers from local animal-related non-profits, speak to some of FLDP's other wonderful sponsors, or enjoy the new benches, several of which are still available for sponsorships. In addition, May 11, 2013 will be the first opportunity to purchase the brand-new 2013 Lakewood Dog Park Tenth Anniversary T-shirts and hoodies.

The Lakewood Early Childhood PTA (LECPTA) is once again planning its popular children's resale of gently used children's clothing (sizes newborn to 14/16), furniture, toys and other items. The Baby Bargain Bonanza (BBB) is planned for May 4th at its NEW location of Garfield Middle School located at 13114 Detroit Ave. in Lakewood. The sale is open to the public and will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 4th. Admission is $5 from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. and just $1 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Attendees will find more than one thing to like! There are many good deals to be found on lots of children's gear. If it is needed for children, most likely, it can be found at the BBB! There will also be raffles taking place. LECPTA will be raffling off $25 gift cards to Gap, Children's Place and Carter's. Raffle tickets are one ticket for $1, six tickets for $5 or twenty tickets for $10. The tickets may be used to enter the raffle for just one gift card drawing, or split amongst the different gift cards. Winners do not need to be present to win. Raffle tickets can be purchased anytime by emailing BBB.LECPTA@gmail.com. This is a great resource to take advantage of if you cannot attend the BBB but would like to get in on the fun of the raffle!

Travel packages, entertainment and sporting event tickets, golf outings, dinners on the town and even health and fitness programs can be yours for the best bid at the Sunrise Rotary Fund Raising Auction, Friday, April 19. The Rocky River Assistance Program, North Coast Health Ministry, Lakewood Food Programs, and Polio eradication in the World are just a few of the many Community and International Service Projects that are supported by proceeds fro the Sunrise at Sunset Auction. It is on Friday, April 19. It also provides scholarships for needy students to the American Youth Federation’s Leadership Camp Miniwanca which challenges young people to unlock their potential and develop their best self mentally, physically, socially and spiritually.

All girls ages five to 16 are invited to show off their best moves at a Girl Scout Dance Party on Friday, May 10, 2013, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Harding School Cafetorium, 16601 Madison Avenue.

Admission includes two hours of dancing, a DJ (so come prepared to request your favorite songs!), one slice of pizza, and one drink. 

Cost is $5 per girl at the door or a bag of dry dog or dry cat food to be donated to My Best Friend’s Bowl, a pet food bank for low-income residents of Lakewood, Rocky River, and Westlake. Advance tickets can be purchased by May 7th for $3 each by contacting troop leaders Jeanine Gergel and Laura Whitkofski at troop70792@gmail.com. All girls will need to bring a completed permission form which can be obtained at www.girlscoutdanceparty.wordpress.com.

Join friends, family, neighbors and the West Side community at the 12th annual Lakewood Hospital Ambulance Chase on Sunday, May 6 at Lakewood Park. Proceeds from the race will benefit Lakewood Hospital’s Rehabilitation Services and patient care programs.

Presented by long-time supporter Donald Martens & Sons, the Ambulance Chase is for everyone - from the youngest among us to the serious runner to the leisurely walker – and includes a 5K Run/Walk, 1 Mile Walk, and Children’s Chase. The registration fee for the 5K Walk/Run and 1 Mile Walk is $20 through April 22 and $25 from April 23 through race day. Teams of 10 or more receive a 10 percent discount ($18/participant) if team member names and fees are submitted together by April 22.  Only pre-registered walk and run participants receive a race shirt – so register online today at lakewoodhospitalfoundation.org/ambulancechase!

One in four adults—approximately 57.7 million Americans—experience a mental health disorder in a given year. One in 17 lives with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, major depression or bipolar disorder[1] and about one in 10 children live with a serious mental or emotional disorder.[2] You, your child, sibling, parent, friend, neighbor, customer, —through one way or another, we are all connected to mental illness.  Mental ‘wellness’ is everyone’s concern. How can you gain a better understanding of mental illness in order to be a part of a larger,  more supportive community?

Join us on Thursday, April 18th for The Lakewood Family Collaborative’s  community forum, “Wellness Over Illness: Building a Community of Support”. A panel of Lakewood mental health professionals and advocates will focus on dispelling mental health myths, fostering empathy, and creating a community of support for those with and affected by mental illness.

The Hens in Lakewood Committee has featured several Lakewood families who support the notion of responsible hen keeping in Lakewood. Several businesses have come out to support this issue as well. This edition features Pet's General Store. Interested in learning more about the movement to responsibly keep hens in Lakewood? Attend a public forum on Sunday, April 28th at 6:00 p.m. at the Lakewood Public Library, in the multi-purpose room. We hope to see you there!

Name of Business: Pet's General Store.

Please describe your business: We are a family-owned pet shop for more than 28 years. Our shop is literally like going back in time, from the decor to the way we remember our customers' names--and their pets. We have fresh and saltwater fish, small animals, birds, reptiles, and adoptable kittens. We also carry all the supplies and foods for them, including the best in healthy dog and cat foods. Our service to our customers is number one.

Come celebrate spring in Downtown Lakewood at the second annual Spring Stroll and Fashion Show! The Downtown Lakewood Business Alliance will be presenting an afternoon of food, fashion and shopping, on Saturday, April 27th, from 12:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

This year’s event will begin at the Lakewood Masonic Temple, 15300 Detroit Ave, at 12:30 p.m. Upon checking in, participants will receive a raffle ticket to enter in the drawing for the Downtown Lakewood gift basket (worth over $500!), as well as a program detailing this year's participating merchants.

Once inside, guests will be able to sample small bites and treats from various Downtown Lakewood restaurants, as well as prepared foods from Giant Eagle.

Following the tasting, will be the Downtown Lakewood Fashion Show, beginning at 1:30 p.m. This years featured fashions will be from Paisley Monkey, lion and blue and Geiger’s Clothing and Sports. At the close of the show, the winner of the gift basket will be announced.

Saturday, April 20 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Women’s Pavilion in Lakewood Park

Come learn about local earth-friendly organizations and businesses. Adopt-a-tree for free from KLB! Be a part of the annual tree tour (1:15pm) and planting in Lakewood Park. All for free, just come and see the green!

And The Great American Clean Up, Saturday, April 20, 9 a.m. - noon

Individuals or groups of volunteers interested in sprucing up public spaces and city parks should contact Keep Lakewood Beautiful. Lunch is provided to registered volunteers. To pre-register use our link on www.onelakewood.com/KLB; or call Luann at 529-6601.

Two events one day!

Last Friday, LakewoodAlive hosted a volunteer appreciation breakfast to recognize the more than 300 volunteers who have contributed their skills and services over the past year to make Lakewood a better place to live, work, and explore. The early-morning event saw over 40 attendees, including Lakewood Mayor Michael Summers, Councilman Sean Juris, and Lakewood Poet Laureate Bill Knittel, who composed an original poem for the occasion.

LakewoodAlive Executive Director Ian Andrews explained that because the nonprofit organization only has three full-time staff members and one part-time staff member, volunteers are integral in facilitating events such as Light Up Lakewood, the Summer Meltdown, and the Spooky Pooch Parade, as well as projects with LakewoodAlive’s Housing Outreach Program.

“We are here today to recognize you, as an invaluable volunteer to the LakewoodAlive organization,” said Sean McDermott, president of LakewoodAlive’s board of directors. “With strengthening the community through community engagement, volunteerism rests at the core of LakewoodAlive's mission.”

The joyous voices of two of Greater Cleveland’s gospel groups will ring from the rafters on Sunday, April 21, 2013, at a brunch at Vosh Lakewood to benefit North Coast Health Ministry, a Lakewood-based charitable health center serving the low-income uninsured.

The gospel brunch event will feature the sounds of “One Voice” and “The Tralalas” in concert and a gourmet brunch including coffee, juice and soda, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Two seating times are available--10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.

Tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for children age 12 and under. Reservations can be made online at www.nchealthministry.org/gospelbrunch or by contacting Elizabeth O’Brien at 216-228-7878 ext. 114 or eobrien@nchealthministry.org. Seating is limited, and all reservations must be made and paid for in advance of the event.

Vosh Lakewood is the newest music destination on Greater Cleveland’s West Side and is located at 1414 Riverside Drive in previously unused space in the former Bonne Bell building.

A Lakewood restaurant with an unusual name and a great big heart will launch Hospice of the Western Reserve’s Meal to Remember program at Ames Family Hospice House on Tuesday, April 16. Jammy Buggars Restaurant and Pub, 15625 Detroit Rd., winner of Cleveland Magazine’s 2012 Silver Spoon Award for “Best New Restaurant,” will serve hospice patients, their families and caregivers a full-course comfort food dinner.

The innovative Meal to Remember program brings a different Cleveland-area restaurant to Ames Family Hospice House in Westlake each month to allow families to enjoy a sit-down dinner together, complete with fine china and linens, wine and musical entertainment. A strolling photographer is also available to capture the special memory for families.  All of the food, time and talent is donated by the restaurant. The program was introduced at Hospice of the Western Reserve’s David Simpson Hospice House in November 2011. The roster of participating restaurants reads like a “Who’s Who” of Cleveland’s culinary community.

On Friday, March 8th, the United Way of Greater Cleveland held the its Annual Meeting at the Renaissance Ballroom in downtown Cleveland. This annual meeting is held to review the 2012 United Way Campaign, to launch the 2013 campaign, and to honor the outstanding and ever giving United Way organizations that serve the Greater Cleveland area. United Way asks its organizations to nominate their “Spotlight Volunteers” for the past year. 

Far West Center, located on the Health Campus of St. John Medical Center, is a United Way agency. The Compeer Program at Far West Center nominated Mr. Terry Koozer as our agency’s Spotlight Volunteer of 2012. Terry Koozer has been volunteering for our Compeer Program since October 2003. I am sharing with you part of the submission for honors that describes what a difference Terry has made in the lives of others. As a Compeer Volunteer Terry offers friendship to a man that manages a mental illness:

Baby Bargain Bonanza Seller Information & Policy

Saturday, May 4, 2013

Baby Bargain Bonanza has a long-standing reputation of being a quality resale of gently used baby and children’s items. We require that Sellers be sure to quality-check their items and only sell the following items:

• Gently used baby/children clothing sizes newborn–14/16, which are not faded & free of tears, stains or a pilly texture. 
• Clean toys, books, puzzles that have all of their pieces and no broken parts. Please do not sell stuffed animals.
• Gently used baby furniture, strollers, highchairs, cribs/beds, bouncy seats, etc. Bedding should be clean. Drop-sided cribs can no longer be sold.    

• All car seat sales are sold at your own liability. All car seats expire after 6 years. Please make sure all car seats are not expired.

*Please adhere to the above criteria so that we may maintain the positive reputation we have acquired as a great kids sale.

The beautiful renovations at Crestmont North Healthcare provided an elegant backdrop for the exchange of vows between resident David Austin and his new wife Christine. The ceremony was officiated by Mayor Michael Summers on Friday, March 22nd, 2013.

The newlyweds expressed that their wedding was, "a long time coming." After overcoming obstacles along the way, they decided that there is no time like the present. The couple is planning their move into a senior living community and had wished to be married prior to living together.

Chris excitedly shared with Crestmont North Healthcare’s Administrator, Wendy Tyler, just four days prior that she and David were getting married and the Mayor kindly offered to come to the facility to officiate. Rather than simply exchange vows, Wendy felt it would be more meaningful with a ceremony to allow residents, staff, and family members of the couple to share in their joy and happiness.

"We didn't expect anything like this," said the new bride with a glowing smile. The bride and groom expressed much appreciation of the staff for coordinating such an elaborate ceremony with only four days notice. The team at Crestmont North Healthcare worked together to create the very classic, black and white themed setting, highlighted by a stunning cupcake tower from their own kitchen.  

Hoppy Paws is happy to announce that he will make a repeat appearance at Pet’s General Store in Lakewood, Ohio, on Sunday, March 10, 2013, for photo ops with all of his area canine friends and their peeps. Friends of the Lakewood Dog Park, Inc. (FLDP) invites you to participate in what has become an annual spring event.

Did you notice that Photos with Hoppys Paws occurs early this year? That’s because on Groundhog’s Day, renowned weather forecaster and film celebrity Punxsutawney Phil didn’t see his shadow. Phil immediately tweeted the news of a short winter to his friend “@Hoppy Paws.” Thus, the happy hare had to hurry to schedule earlier-than-usual spring appearances.

Hoppy Paws (“HP” to his close friends) will be in Lakewood on Sunday, March 10, 2013, from 12 noon until 4 p.m. at Pet’s General Store, 16821 Madison Avenue. Photographer Deirdre Ruane will be on hand once again to capture HP’s visit with each of his canine friends in the area. Participants will receive a 4”x6” photograph as a souvenir as well as online access to all photos taken with HP.

Thanks to Lakewood resident Jonathan Gray, those little trial-size bottles of shampoo, soap and toothpaste you see in your local store are a big help to financially-strapped families and the homeless. He recognized that after buying food and paying rent, many people can’t afford basic toiletry items, which cannot be purchased with food stamps.

Jonathan collects and places these trial sized toiletry items along with toothbrushes, an occasional roll of toilet paper and sometimes sweet treats like candy or a homemade cookie into sandwich bags that are distributed at free community meals in Lakewood and the near west side of Cleveland.

(W)in It Together, a March Madness event designed to raise funds for In It Together, an organization that provides support to families affected by childhood cancer and young adult cancer, will be held on Friday, March 22 at 6 p.m. at the Market Garden Brewery, 1947 W. 25th St., in Ohio City.

(W)in It Together will feature the evening's NCAA action on multiple screens, along with a host of other activities and fantastic food and drink. Tickets are $35 in advance, or $40 at the door. Founded in 2011 by dedicated medical professionals, local nonprofits, parents, friends and families, In It Together's mission is to raise awareness and provide resources for families affected by Pediatric and Young Adult (PAYA) cancer. Over the past two years, In It Together has developed a family mentoring program, brightened the lives of children through the Tree of Hope campaign, and mobilized the efforts of multiple groups serving families with childhood cancer through collaboration and support.

Lakewood residents Ed FitzGerald, Cuyahoga County Executive, and his wife, Shannon, are serving as honorary co-chairs for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) Diocese of Cleveland’s first annual gala/fundraiser on Saturday, May 4 from 6:30 – 11 p.m. at St. Basil the Great Church, 8700 Brecksville Road in Brecksville, Ohio.

The event, “Gather, Give and Grow: A Celebration of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul,” will pay tribute to the organization’s numerous volunteers from its 60 participating parishes who have helped Northeast Ohio’s poor throughout the years by offering person-to-person assistance to those in need. Tickets cost $50 (SVDP members) and $75 (non-members). To order, call 216-696-6525, ext. 3150 or visit: http://www.svdpcle.org/.

North Coast Health Ministry has achieved recognition as a National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Patient-Centered Medical Home 2011, level 3, becoming the first free clinic in Ohio to attain this distinction.

The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home 2011 standards emphasize the use of systematic, patient-centered, coordinated care that supports access, communication and patient involvement.  

“The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home is a model of 21st century primary care that combines access, teamwork and technology to deliver quality care and improve health,” said NCQA President Margaret E. O’Kane.  “NCQA’s PCMH 2011 Recognition shows that North Coast Health Ministry has the tools, systems and resources to provide their patients with the right care at the right time.”

A substantial body of evidence demonstrates that medical homes improve clinical outcomes and reduce costs.  Putting in place the standards required for PCHM recognition was one of NCHM’s highest strategic priorities of the past year.

“Seann just knew that he had the willpower to accomplish anything.” That’s how Martin Hannon describes his friend and Lakewood High School Class of 2000 alum Seann Flynn.

We lost the talented drummer and sound designer on December 5, 2011, when he was hit by a truck while riding his motorcycle to work. Seann was just shy of his 30th birthday.

But Seann’s passion continues today through the Seann Flynn Lives Endowment Fund. Seann’s friends and family established the music scholarship in his name through the Lakewood Alumni Foundation. They are committed to preserving his passion for music and his spirit of goodwill and joy.

In many people’s memories, Sean was the most amazing drummer they have ever witnessed. He had an unparalleled drive and passion for music and an uncanny ability to bring people together for positive collaboration. He composed music and designed sound for small independent films in Los Angeles. He also created a group to bring other sound designers in the movie industry together to share ideas and further their professional skills in an altruistic way.

One in 5 teens in a serious relationship report being hit, slapped or pushed by a partner; this adds up to nearly 1.5 million high school students nationwide who experience physical abuse from a dating partner every year. Because teen dating violence is an important issue in our community, the Domestic Violence & Child Advocacy Center (DVCAC) and Bellefaire’s Social Advocates for Youth (SAY) Student Leadership Council have developed an awareness campaign to support Respect Month, which runs in conjunction with National Teen Dating Violence Awareness & Prevention Month in February. 

Hello… Happy Spring to all our fine Lakewood Observer readers! Technically it isn’t spring till March 21st, but many of us are experiencing cabin-fever and are ready for Spring. Calvary United Methodist is hosting a “Spring Arts and Crafts Fair” on Saturday March 2, 2013. We will be showcasing a unique variety of local artists and crafters who will have their work on display and for sale. Whether your looking for a special gift for a birthday or maybe something wonderful for your Easter baskets, there is no doubt you will have a distinctive selection to choose from.

Keeping in line with our outreaches and mission to reach out to the spiritually and physically hungry, we will have a raffle, which will benefit two great Lakewood charities! You can get a ticket by donating a canned or dry food good or pay $1.00 for a raffle ticket. Donations of canned and dry food goods and proceeds will benefit the Lakewood Community Service Center and North Coast Health Ministries. Both of these charities are great services to so many who are going through challenges in their lives.

The public is invited to tour the house and grounds at Ames Family Hospice House on Friday, March 8 from 2 to 3 p.m. at a free Community Open House sponsored by Hospice of the Western Reserve. The new 40,000-square-foot Craftsman-inspired house opened last summer, and is tucked away on a hidden 30-acre site in the woods near Porter Creek, just north of the I-90 Crocker Road exit, between Holiday Inn and Bonne Belle.  Refreshments will be provided. Reservations can be made by visiting the hospice’s website or calling 216-486-6645. For those unable to visit on March 8, a second open house is slated for Friday, June 14, also from 2 to 3 p.m.

“We are part of the fabric of the community, so we encourage residents in the surrounding West Shore suburbs to bring their friends and stop in during one of our open house events,” said Bill Finn, chief executive officer.  “It’s a great way to see first-hand the distinctive range of services we offer as a non-profit agency with 35 years of history in Northern Ohio,” Finn said.

Home Repair Workshop for Seniors

How to Hire a Contractor for Home Repairs

Your home is your most valuable asset, and it’s important to be cautious when finding a competent and reliable contractor to complete home repairs.

This 90-minute workshop for seniors takes the hassle out of home repairs by focusing on the basics of planning and bidding out projects: obtaining and reviewing bids, specifying what is to be done, selecting a contractor, avoiding common pitfalls and monitoring the work. While this workshop is geared for seniors, the information can be used by anyone regardless of age. All are welcome to attend.

Transportation for Lakewood seniors will be available to and from the event for a suggested donation of $3 round-trip. There will also be a lunch prior to the event at 11:45 a.m. for a suggested donation of $1. Suggested donations may be waived for individuals unable to pay for transportation and/or lunch.

The newly named agency, Cuyahoga Job and Family Services (CJFS), is a result of the merger of Employment & Family Services and Cuyahoga Support Enforcement Agency. Cuyahoga Job and Family Services provides comprehensive child support assistance and administers public benefits including Medicaid, Food Assistance Subsidized Child Care and other programs. 

Help with child support is available at Office of Child Support Services, located at 1640 Superior Ave, Cleveland Ohio 44114. CJFS services are also available at our Neighborhood Family Service Centers: 1641 Payne Avenue, Cleveland Ohio 44114; 8111 Quincy Avenue, Cleveland Ohio 44104; 9830 Lorain Avenue, Cleveland Ohio 44102; and 4261 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland Ohio 44144.

The Lakewood Alumni Foundation is pleased to announce the election of the following board members to officers for 2013:

Kyle Baker ‘02, Associate at Thompson Hine, was elected to president.

Vicki Morford Smigelski ‘78, Manager, Self-Insurance at KKSG and Associates, was elected to vice president/president-elect.

Frederick W. Leick ’61 was elected to treasurer.

Margaret Brinich ‘04, Manager, Surveys & Research, ERC (Employer’s Resource Council), was elected to secretary.

Dr. Chuck Greanoff ‘77, Social Studies teacher at Lakewood High School, was elected to past president.

The following have been elected to the board of trustees for a 2013-16 term: Kate A. Asbeck ‘75, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of The Cleveland Foundation, Ash Khatib, CPA ‘01, Vice President, Corporate Controller at Lorain National Bank, Ryan Krivosh ‘02, Manager/Owner of Around the Corner, Ryan Rustad ‘96, Senior Operations Manager at KeyBanc Capital Markets, and Alysia Wright ‘90, Officer of the Company at First Federal Lakewood.

Cuyahoga County Vita Tax Sites located at Southgate and Westshore Neighborhood Family Service Centers

Cuyahoga County and the Cuyahoga Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Coalition will be hosting free tax preparation services as part of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. Last year in Cuyahoga County, the VITA Program served over 10,600 people and brought back more than $12 million to the community. County VITA sites are at the County’s Westshore Neighborhood Family Service Center (NFSC) and at the Southgate NFSC. Westshore NFSC is located at 9830 Lorain Ave, Cleveland Ohio 44102; the hours of service are Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Southgate NFSC is located at 5398 ½ Northfield Rd, Maple Heights Ohio 44137; the hours of service are Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. To schedule an appointment call 211/United Way First Call for Help.

In October of 2012, the Living Miracles Peer Support and Empowerment Center moved from the border of Cleveland and Lakewood to Lakewood proper. Located now at 11801 Clifton Boulevard on the second floor above Huntington Bank, the mental health organization enjoys a bigger meeting space, a craft room, a multi-purpose room and other new amenities to accommodate our growing membership.

Lakewood Early Childhood PTA is once again set to host a Bounce Off the Walls Children's Party and Open House! The party, which is free and open to the public, will be on Friday, January 18th from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Harrison Elementary School located at 2080 Quail St. in Lakewood.

Lakewood Early Childhood PTA is for families with children ages six years old and younger. We hope that your family will join us as we Bounce Off the Walls and let the kids burn off some of that extra winter energy! There will be two bounce houses, crafts, balls, hula hoops, pizza and drinks. Please bring a dish to share and join the fun! Visit www.lecpta.com or email lecpta@gmail.com for more information.

1 Musician, 12 Hours, 100’s of Donations 

On December 21 2012 Cleveland based musician Diana Chittester asked the Cleveland community to get involved this past holiday season. On December 21st at Lakewood Public Library, Diana performed on the library’s front porch from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in efforts to draw attention to this 12 hour donation drive. During the 12 hours Diana and her business partner Jessica Rosenblatt collected donations of any kind to be given back to a range of charities and hoped to make this the biggest donation drive Lakewood has ever seen.

Representatives from different charities including the Salvation Army were on-site throughout the day to collect donations specific to their cause. All other donations were then distributed personally to the charity of choice (as labeled on the bag or box). The Cleveland Foodbank’s most needed item was cash and the organization had asked for monetary contributions to support hunger relief efforts this winter season.

Happy New Year from the Hens in Lakewood Committee. We are highlighting another fine Lakewood "hen hopeful," so that Lakewood neighbors can learn about who wants hens, and why. Here is another wonderful Lakewood family to discuss their point of view on the popular issue of responsble hen-keeping in Lakewood.

What street do you live on? Clarence.

How long have you lived in Lakewood? I was born in Lakewood and moved back here periodically in my life, but now I'm a full-fledged homeowner in Lakewood for just over a year.

Why do you choose to live in Lakewood? The community's small business presence, proximity to the rapid and downtown and the sense of community that still exists.

Being diagnosed with diabetes can be overwhelming and confusing. You may have to start taking medicine or insulin and you are supposed to be checking your blood sugar every day. When it comes to food, you are not sure what to eat anymore.

Let the Diabetes Partnership of Cleveland help you manage your diabetes to avoid complications of this disease. Our education staff including a registered dietetic technician, nurse, and social worker. We are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. to answer your questions and provide you with information to make diabetes less confusing and overwhelming. Individual appointments as well as classes and workshops are available to the diabetic. Please call 216-591-0800 or visit www.diabetesparternship.org for a wealth of diabetes knowledge.

New Report: Extreme Downpours Up 49 Percent in Ohio

Scientists Link Trend to Global Warming

Just months after heavy downpours led to flooding that dumped massive amounts of untreated sewage into Lake Erie, a new Environment Ohio Research and Policy Center report released in conjunction with the Union of Concerned Scientists (a fellow member Clean Air Defense Campaign) confirms that extreme rainstorms are happening 49 percent more frequently in Ohio since 1948.

“As the old saying goes, when it rains, it pours—especially in recent years as bigger storms have hit Ohio more often,” said Craig Gibson, Clean Air Organizer for Environment Ohio Research and Policy Center. “We need to heed scientists’ warnings that this dangerous trend is linked to global warming, and do everything we can to cut carbon pollution today.”

Volunteer work is very valuable. Ask any organization that enlists volunteers and they will tell you that, “Volunteers make it possible to run our world!" In our Compeer Program at Far West Center and in all Compeer Programs throughout the US, Canada, and Australia, Compeer Volunteers help transform peoples’ lives by offering friendship and supportive communication. Did you know that not only is volunteering good for the community and your self-esteem, but it is also a great addition to your resume?

Hundreds of volunteers came to the Lakewood Masonic Temple November 16-17 with one thing in mind—helping needy families in Lakewood! Three hundred turkey dinners with all the fixins were distributed to Lakewood families in need during the annual Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corp. (LCAC) Thanksgiving Food Bag distribution. All this could not have happened without the generosity of local sponsors, donors and volunteers.

Students helping neighbors came in all shapes and sizes. Food drives at St Edward High School, Grant, Horace Mann and Lincoln Elementary Schools collected over 10,000 pounds of non-perishable food.

The Citizens Committee for the Lakewood Animal Shelter (CCLAS) will hold its annual Angel Tree fundraiser. Honor or commemorate your family pet by donating $5.00 to the CCLAS (Citizens Committee for the Lakewood Animal Shelter) Furry Angel Tree. We will add an ornament with your pet’s name and display it at one of our Angel Tree locations.

Ahhh….the holidays. The snow, the sparkle, the gifts—and, the stress, anxiety, and non-stop frantic shopping and spending. Have you lost that loving feeling that you once had for this time of year? Does this time of year, whether it is preparing for the holidays or the dread of another dark winter, put a damper on your daily activities or relationships?  It doesn’t have to be this way--we do have a choice. Join the Lakewood Family Collaborative, on Thursday, December 13th, 1 p.m. at the Lakewood Women’s Pavilion, for a special presentation as we welcome speaker, Kim Langley, as she educates and coaches us toward “Stress-Less Holidays.” Kim will help us examine what works well and what doesn't work about our holiday experiences. She'll offer tips for minimizing holiday stress, and speak to us on how new traditions can bring new joy and less stress to our celebrations. Winter can be a tough time for many living in this region of the country.  Kim will address the winter blues and how to manage the sadness that some people struggle with each winter. 

In November and December throughout the United States, including here in Lakewood, the Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) sells amaryllis bulbs that bring joy and hope into homes, offices and stores on cold winter days. Proceeds help support the HDSA programs of research, education and family care.

Light Up Lakewood is now over and we could not have pulled off such a huge event if it were not for the countless efforts of our amazing volunteers and participants. This list speaks volumes about the great spirit of community that Lakewood enjoys! Everyone on this list has helped to further LakewoodAlive’s mission to maintain the vitality of Downtown Lakewood and to promote the great sense of community that is at the heart of our city.

Thank you for everything you have done to create one of the largest and most incredible festivals Lakewood has ever seen! 

Quaker Steak & Lube is fast becoming a favorite family dining location in Lakewood. As a way to give back to the community, they were the Official Sponsor to the 2012 Light Up Lakewood Parade. Below is a note from the leadership team at Quaker Steak and Lube.

Fireworks were once again the highlight of this year's Light Up Lakewood celebration!

The Board of Directors of Lake Erie Nature & Science Center is pleased to announce newly elected members and appointments of executive officers. Joining the Board of Directors are Douglas Schosser, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Key Corporate Bank and resident of Avon, Ohio; Todd Rosenberg, Senior Manager, Federal Tax at KPMG LLP and resident of Avon Lake, Ohio; Jeffrey M. Whitesell, Attorney at Tucker Ellis and resident of Westlake, Ohio; William P. Watkins, Group Head, Business Development, Harris Williams & Co. (subsidiary of PNC) and resident of Bay Village, Ohio.

Vintage park benches at Lakewood Dog Park will soon be liquidated to make room for new benches.

Lakewood history buffs, antique collectors, gardeners, DIYers and those with a flair for eclectic design will find the aged and worn wooden and steel benches of interest. Less than 20 benches will be available, so anyone interested should contact Friends of the Lakewood Dog Park (FLDP) at TopDog@LakewoodDogPark.com

“At this time, anyone who’s interested in purchasing a bench should submit their contact information and bids to FLDP so they can be notified of the liquidation process. It will be a first come, first pick situation. We’re coordinating delivery of new benches with the sale of the old ones. We’re also seeking sponsors for the new benches,” explained a spokesperson for Friends of the Lakewood Dog Park.

Masonic Temple
6:30 p.m. – Welcome
6:35 p.m. – Lincoln Elementary Singers
6:45 p.m. – Silhouette School of Dance Performers
6:55 p.m. – Harding Middle School Choir
7:05 p.m. – Horace Mann Elementary Singers
7:20 p.m. – Garfield Middle School Choir

Lakewood Public Library 
Programs:

9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Friends Holiday Public Book Sale (Book Sale Room)
6:00 – 8:30 p.m. – Holiday Crafts & Activities (Multipurpose Room)
6:00 – 8:00 p.m. – Outdoor Holiday Classic Movie (Library Porch)

6:30 – 8:00 p.m. – H2O’s “Twigbee-Style” Shop (Homework Room)
6:30 – 8:30 p.m. – Santa Visits/Photos (Bring Your Camera)
6:30 – 8:30 p.m. – Story Time – every half hour

The Light Up Lakewood Queen and King Scholarship Committee is pleased to announce the winners of the 2012 Plantation Home Scholarship. Congratulations to Megan Barrett and Tyler Krebs!

Megan Barrett is a Junior at Lakewood High School. She volunteers her time at H2O and LCAC. Megan is also a Westshore Young Leader, a member of the LHS Volleyball team and is on Student Council. The LUL Sponsorship Committee is extremely inspired by Megan’s love for Lakewood, her internal strength in overcoming adversity, and the amount of time she gives back to others in the City of Lakewood.

Tyler Krebs is Junior at St. Edward High School, where he is very involved with the God Squad, Kanakuk Haiti, and Andre’s Giants. Tyler is also on the St. Ed's Golf Team and is a member of Model UN. We are very impressed with Tyler’s passion for life and commitment to the City of Lakewood, and he was the clear choice for this year’s Light Up Lakewood King.

As the 2012 Light Up Lakewood Queen and King, Megan and Tyler’s commitment to the community will continue during 2013. Please join us at the Main Stage at 6:00 p.m. on December 1, 2012 for the crowing of the 2012 Light Up Lakewood Queen and King!

Refrain:

Twinkling lights, great Christmas sights,

Making our world seem right,

And you wonder why, till you look in the sky,

At those amazing twinkling lights.

Now it's that time of year,

When the air's crisp and clear,

And the snow cascades down, from above;

There's that feeling inside,

That you can't seem to hide,

Cause it's Christmas, and you're filled with love;