Social Change
Charles Eisenstat thought he wanted to be a lawyer, but after living in Chicago and D.C. and experiencing their "advanced coffee culture," he realized his true passion lies in brewing the perfect cup of java.
Now, after spending countless hours studying the finer points of law as well as watching baristas make coffee in some of the best coffee shops in the world, the would-be entrepreneur plans to open POUR Cleveland. This new coffee shop in the 5th Street Arcades will offer handcrafted beverages including pour-over-style coffee.
"We won't feature any batch coffee, it will be strictly handbrew or pour-over, individually by the cup," explains Eisenstat, who started his quest by creating a coffee bar at home several years ago. He'd craft the perfect cup before heading off to work at a bank. "We'll be the first shop downtown to feature coffee that way. This is taking a culinary approach to it -- the way people do wine and beer."
POUR was recently named a finalist in the 5th Street Arcades Retail Development Grant Competition, a collaboration between Downtown Cleveland Alliance, Charter One's Growing Communities Initiative and Cumberland Development, the lease-holder for the 5th Street Arcades. Eisenstat has launched a crowdfunding campaign; Charter One will match up to $1,000 of whatever he raises.
In addition to brewing single-origin and estate coffees that would be hard to find in other Cleveland coffee shops, Eisenstat wants POUR to become a center for coffee culture. "We want people to geek out with us and get excited about coffee," he says in his Indiegogo campaign message. He promises "passionate baristas" and low countertops so customers can see how their coffee is being made. He also aims to create a place for coffee education, so classes and workshops will be offered.
Unlike Rising Star in Ohio City, an artisan venue that has a devout following but remains largely a roaster with little seating space, POUR aims to be a comfortable space where office workers and residents can hang out.
If all goes as planned, Eisenstat hopes to open POUR in a retail space with street frontage in July. He plans to buy his coffee from Counterculture in Durham, North Carolina, and the average cup will cost range from $2 to $3. He will launch the operation with little help, but plans to eventually hire six to 10 people.
Source: Charles Eisenstat
Writer: Lee Chilcote
Now, after spending countless hours studying the finer points of law as well as watching baristas make coffee in some of the best coffee shops in the world, the would-be entrepreneur plans to open POUR Cleveland. This new coffee shop in the 5th Street Arcades will offer handcrafted beverages including pour-over-style coffee.
"We won't feature any batch coffee, it will be strictly handbrew or pour-over, individually by the cup," explains Eisenstat, who started his quest by creating a coffee bar at home several years ago. He'd craft the perfect cup before heading off to work at a bank. "We'll be the first shop downtown to feature coffee that way. This is taking a culinary approach to it -- the way people do wine and beer."
POUR was recently named a finalist in the 5th Street Arcades Retail Development Grant Competition, a collaboration between Downtown Cleveland Alliance, Charter One's Growing Communities Initiative and Cumberland Development, the lease-holder for the 5th Street Arcades. Eisenstat has launched a crowdfunding campaign; Charter One will match up to $1,000 of whatever he raises.
In addition to brewing single-origin and estate coffees that would be hard to find in other Cleveland coffee shops, Eisenstat wants POUR to become a center for coffee culture. "We want people to geek out with us and get excited about coffee," he says in his Indiegogo campaign message. He promises "passionate baristas" and low countertops so customers can see how their coffee is being made. He also aims to create a place for coffee education, so classes and workshops will be offered.
Unlike Rising Star in Ohio City, an artisan venue that has a devout following but remains largely a roaster with little seating space, POUR aims to be a comfortable space where office workers and residents can hang out.
If all goes as planned, Eisenstat hopes to open POUR in a retail space with street frontage in July. He plans to buy his coffee from Counterculture in Durham, North Carolina, and the average cup will cost range from $2 to $3. He will launch the operation with little help, but plans to eventually hire six to 10 people.
Source: Charles Eisenstat
Writer: Lee Chilcote
The Cleveland Orchestra is well known for its residencies in cities like New York, Vienna and Miami. Now the famous ensemble is bringing its talents back to where it all began.
In the first of a handful of planned residencies in Northeast Ohio, the orchestra has partnered with Gordon Square Arts District for a week of events May 11 through May 17. Visitors walking the neighborhood are bound to encounter orchestra or youth ensemble musicians performing at one happening joint or another. In addition, musicians will visit local schools for educational programs. All of the events will be free and open to the public
The orchestra has a healthy prior relationship with the West Side district, notes orchestra communications director Ana Papakhian. Ensemble musicians, for example, have played at Happy Dog, and the orchestra has plans to release a vinyl album based on the recordings there. Plans to diversify orchestra activities beyond Severance Hall and Blossom Music Center made Gordon Square an easy call for an inaugural neighborhood residency.
"The district is a natural fit," Papakhian says. "The community has always been supportive of us."
Entertainment is just one aspect of the venture, adds the orchestra official. Musicians will talk about their careers with Cleveland students, while a soccer game will pair local youth with musicians and staff. The idea is to form a bond between participating Clevelanders and performers.
"You get an enhanced concert experience when you have some connection to the people on stage," says Papakhian. "It's about seeing the musicians as real people."
SOURCE: Ana Papakhian
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
In the first of a handful of planned residencies in Northeast Ohio, the orchestra has partnered with Gordon Square Arts District for a week of events May 11 through May 17. Visitors walking the neighborhood are bound to encounter orchestra or youth ensemble musicians performing at one happening joint or another. In addition, musicians will visit local schools for educational programs. All of the events will be free and open to the public
The orchestra has a healthy prior relationship with the West Side district, notes orchestra communications director Ana Papakhian. Ensemble musicians, for example, have played at Happy Dog, and the orchestra has plans to release a vinyl album based on the recordings there. Plans to diversify orchestra activities beyond Severance Hall and Blossom Music Center made Gordon Square an easy call for an inaugural neighborhood residency.
"The district is a natural fit," Papakhian says. "The community has always been supportive of us."
Entertainment is just one aspect of the venture, adds the orchestra official. Musicians will talk about their careers with Cleveland students, while a soccer game will pair local youth with musicians and staff. The idea is to form a bond between participating Clevelanders and performers.
"You get an enhanced concert experience when you have some connection to the people on stage," says Papakhian. "It's about seeing the musicians as real people."
SOURCE: Ana Papakhian
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
With a record-setting recent round of grants, The Cleveland Foundation is ensuring, among other things, that a well-loved local institution will continue to make beautiful music.
Last week, the foundation's board of directors approved a best ever $26.6 million in grants for the first quarter of 2013. The funding included a $10 million grant to the Cleveland Orchestra in support of operation and programming efforts as well as the organization's larger initiative to attract a broader audience. Besides the orchestra grant, additional monies totaling nearly $10 million will bolster core neighborhood and youth initiatives.
The orchestra funding is the largest single grant given to an arts organization in the foundation’s 99-year history, notes executive vice president Bob Eckardt. A portion of the grant stands as a leadership gift to help fund the ensemble's “Sound for the Centennial" strategic campaign, culminating with a century celebration in 2018.
"The orchestra is an important part of Cleveland's brand," says Eckardt.
Another grant recipient is Neighborhood Progress, Inc., which garnered $5 million in support of its strategic plan to forge a new community development network for Cleveland’s underserved neighborhoods.
Overall, Cleveland Foundation beat its previous grant-giving record of $21.6 million set in the third quarter of 2012. The large orchestra grant helped boost this number, but the nation's slow economic recovery has also grown the foundation's capacity, says Eckardt.
The organization's VP hopes this winter's big gain is just the start of a year that at the very least matches 2012's $90 million in total grants.
"We'll be in that neighborhood again," Eckardt says.
SOURCE: Bob Eckardt
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Last week, the foundation's board of directors approved a best ever $26.6 million in grants for the first quarter of 2013. The funding included a $10 million grant to the Cleveland Orchestra in support of operation and programming efforts as well as the organization's larger initiative to attract a broader audience. Besides the orchestra grant, additional monies totaling nearly $10 million will bolster core neighborhood and youth initiatives.
The orchestra funding is the largest single grant given to an arts organization in the foundation’s 99-year history, notes executive vice president Bob Eckardt. A portion of the grant stands as a leadership gift to help fund the ensemble's “Sound for the Centennial" strategic campaign, culminating with a century celebration in 2018.
"The orchestra is an important part of Cleveland's brand," says Eckardt.
Another grant recipient is Neighborhood Progress, Inc., which garnered $5 million in support of its strategic plan to forge a new community development network for Cleveland’s underserved neighborhoods.
Overall, Cleveland Foundation beat its previous grant-giving record of $21.6 million set in the third quarter of 2012. The large orchestra grant helped boost this number, but the nation's slow economic recovery has also grown the foundation's capacity, says Eckardt.
The organization's VP hopes this winter's big gain is just the start of a year that at the very least matches 2012's $90 million in total grants.
"We'll be in that neighborhood again," Eckardt says.
SOURCE: Bob Eckardt
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Some creative, outside-the-box thinking by the city's leading urban design and cycling advocates has led to the creation of four additional "bike boxes," which are to be installed this spring in various Cleveland neighborhoods.
The newest wave of bike boxes are modeled after a successful pilot project at Nano Brew in Ohio City. That installation transformed a steel shipping container into a colorful curbside bike garage for two-wheeled visitors.
By offering secure, covered parking in a bike corral that also functions as dynamic, placemaking public art, the Bridge Avenue bike box does more than simply provide practical parking: It brands the city as a place that prioritizes cycling.
"It's really a center of gravity," says Greg Peckham, Managing Director of LAND Studio, the nonprofit that spearheaded the project with Bike Cleveland. "It's as much about a safe, convenient, protected place to park your bike as it is about making a statement that cycling is an important mode of transportation in the city."
Peckham says that Ohio City's bike box is very well used on days when the West Side Market is open and in the evening when riders coast in for dinner or a drink. With the street's bike racks often at capacity, the bike box was critical, he says.
The new bike boxes will be installed in time for Bike Month in May. The locations are Gordon Square (a barn-red beauty outside Happy Dog), Tremont (two "half loaves," as Peckham calls them, outside South Side and Tremont Tap House), St. Clair Superior (location TBD) and a final, undetermined community.
The bike boxes are being custom-fabricated by Rust Belt Welding, which is an entrepreneurial duo that has made creative bike parking a calling card for their work. Each of the boxes is being designed with neighborhood input -- hence Tremont's half-boxes, which amount to a shipping container split in two.
The project is being supported by Charter One Growing Communities, which has also funded retail attraction efforts in Ohio City, downtown and St. Clair Superior.
Peckham says the new designs accommodate more bikes and use lighter colors. Users can expect more innovations in the future -- LAND Studio is working to secure funding so that green roofs and solar panels can be added to the boxes.
The bike boxes are being maintained through partnerships with neighboring businesses, which agree to maintain, clean and keep secure the facilities.
Source: Greg Peckham
Writer: Lee Chilcote
The newest wave of bike boxes are modeled after a successful pilot project at Nano Brew in Ohio City. That installation transformed a steel shipping container into a colorful curbside bike garage for two-wheeled visitors.
By offering secure, covered parking in a bike corral that also functions as dynamic, placemaking public art, the Bridge Avenue bike box does more than simply provide practical parking: It brands the city as a place that prioritizes cycling.
"It's really a center of gravity," says Greg Peckham, Managing Director of LAND Studio, the nonprofit that spearheaded the project with Bike Cleveland. "It's as much about a safe, convenient, protected place to park your bike as it is about making a statement that cycling is an important mode of transportation in the city."
Peckham says that Ohio City's bike box is very well used on days when the West Side Market is open and in the evening when riders coast in for dinner or a drink. With the street's bike racks often at capacity, the bike box was critical, he says.
The new bike boxes will be installed in time for Bike Month in May. The locations are Gordon Square (a barn-red beauty outside Happy Dog), Tremont (two "half loaves," as Peckham calls them, outside South Side and Tremont Tap House), St. Clair Superior (location TBD) and a final, undetermined community.
The bike boxes are being custom-fabricated by Rust Belt Welding, which is an entrepreneurial duo that has made creative bike parking a calling card for their work. Each of the boxes is being designed with neighborhood input -- hence Tremont's half-boxes, which amount to a shipping container split in two.
The project is being supported by Charter One Growing Communities, which has also funded retail attraction efforts in Ohio City, downtown and St. Clair Superior.
Peckham says the new designs accommodate more bikes and use lighter colors. Users can expect more innovations in the future -- LAND Studio is working to secure funding so that green roofs and solar panels can be added to the boxes.
The bike boxes are being maintained through partnerships with neighboring businesses, which agree to maintain, clean and keep secure the facilities.
Source: Greg Peckham
Writer: Lee Chilcote
University Circle already holds claim as Cleveland's premier medical, cultural and educational district. But what does the future hold for the rich, square-mile enclave and the neighborhoods around it?
"Building the Circle 2035: Height, Density and Social Equity" will attempt to answer that question during a free panel discussion on April 10 in the Cleveland Museum of Art's Gartner Auditorium. The program is part of the Circle Neighbors lecture series sponsored by the art museum's Womens Council in collaboration with the Cleveland Botanical Garden, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, The Women's Committee of The Cleveland Orchestra, and the Western Reserve Historical Society.
University Circle is an ever-active neighborhood of "arts, ed and med," says Circle Neighbors co-chair Sabrina Inkley. With development on the rise, the district just four miles east of downtown Cleveland has become an anchor for a city that certainly needs one.
"As Clevelanders we have this inferiority complex," says Inkley. "University Circle is the one of the most unique one-square-mile areas in the nation."
The panel talk, moderated by Plain Dealer architecture critic Steven Litt, will peer two decades into the future to imagine what University Circle might look like, and how the district's rising wealth could benefit struggling surrounding neighborhoods. Panelists will include Chris Ronayne of UCI Inc, developer Ari Maron of MRN Ltd. and India Pierce Lee of the Cleveland Foundation.
Inkley doesn't have all the answers, but she knows University Circle is an enormous linchpin for Cleveland's economic future. New rental apartments and various institutions constructing new facilities are just two examples of the growth taking place.
"It's just very exciting," Inkley says. "There is something for everyone here."
SOURCE: Sabrina Inkley
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
"Building the Circle 2035: Height, Density and Social Equity" will attempt to answer that question during a free panel discussion on April 10 in the Cleveland Museum of Art's Gartner Auditorium. The program is part of the Circle Neighbors lecture series sponsored by the art museum's Womens Council in collaboration with the Cleveland Botanical Garden, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, The Women's Committee of The Cleveland Orchestra, and the Western Reserve Historical Society.
University Circle is an ever-active neighborhood of "arts, ed and med," says Circle Neighbors co-chair Sabrina Inkley. With development on the rise, the district just four miles east of downtown Cleveland has become an anchor for a city that certainly needs one.
"As Clevelanders we have this inferiority complex," says Inkley. "University Circle is the one of the most unique one-square-mile areas in the nation."
The panel talk, moderated by Plain Dealer architecture critic Steven Litt, will peer two decades into the future to imagine what University Circle might look like, and how the district's rising wealth could benefit struggling surrounding neighborhoods. Panelists will include Chris Ronayne of UCI Inc, developer Ari Maron of MRN Ltd. and India Pierce Lee of the Cleveland Foundation.
Inkley doesn't have all the answers, but she knows University Circle is an enormous linchpin for Cleveland's economic future. New rental apartments and various institutions constructing new facilities are just two examples of the growth taking place.
"It's just very exciting," Inkley says. "There is something for everyone here."
SOURCE: Sabrina Inkley
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Cleveland Leadership Center (CLC) director of engagement Earl Pike can't turn around in downtown Cleveland without seeing a crane or some other piece of construction equipment erecting a new building.
There's certainly good work happening locally, but there's also one critical question that Pike wants answered: With all the development in our region, who is being left behind, and what can we do to ensure that "all boats rise"?
This complex query will be explored through "Making Ends Meet," a series of intensive one-day "civic engagement boot camps" hosted by CLC and Ideastream. The programs, which run from April 22 to May 29, are not "easy" experiences, where participants sit in a classroom and listen to speakers, says Pike.
Instead, the boot camps live up to their name, putting attendees in small groups where they will intimately address key aspects of poverty and economic vulnerability in the region. For example, a planned housing-related boot camp includes a visit to eviction court and a trip to a housing project that supports disabled, homeless individuals.
"There is a hunger out there for an experience that is deeper and tougher than people are used to," Pike says. "We can't just be sitting in a room."
A more profound level of engagement with Cleveland's problems is more likely to create a problem-solving "action group" for further activity, the CLC director maintains. In addition, Ideastream will gather video content from each of the program days to create a documentary on Cleveland's economic vulnerability.
"Cleveland's poverty conversation has taken a back seat," says Pike. "We want to rekindle that conversation."
SOURCE: Earl Pike
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
There's certainly good work happening locally, but there's also one critical question that Pike wants answered: With all the development in our region, who is being left behind, and what can we do to ensure that "all boats rise"?
This complex query will be explored through "Making Ends Meet," a series of intensive one-day "civic engagement boot camps" hosted by CLC and Ideastream. The programs, which run from April 22 to May 29, are not "easy" experiences, where participants sit in a classroom and listen to speakers, says Pike.
Instead, the boot camps live up to their name, putting attendees in small groups where they will intimately address key aspects of poverty and economic vulnerability in the region. For example, a planned housing-related boot camp includes a visit to eviction court and a trip to a housing project that supports disabled, homeless individuals.
"There is a hunger out there for an experience that is deeper and tougher than people are used to," Pike says. "We can't just be sitting in a room."
A more profound level of engagement with Cleveland's problems is more likely to create a problem-solving "action group" for further activity, the CLC director maintains. In addition, Ideastream will gather video content from each of the program days to create a documentary on Cleveland's economic vulnerability.
"Cleveland's poverty conversation has taken a back seat," says Pike. "We want to rekindle that conversation."
SOURCE: Earl Pike
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
The Greater Cleveland Aquarium (GCA) has a fish story to tell. Starting this spring, the aquarium will bring its compelling undersea tale to students throughout the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD).
GCA has partnered with the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD) for the education outreach program designed to teach kids the deep interconnection that Ohio has with its freshwater systems. This will be accomplished through Native-American lore, one-on-one time with native Ohio fish and reptiles, and hands-on activities that teach students the importance of protecting the area's local waterways.
The program, called Keepin' It Fresh, will be rolled out in local schools at the beginning of May, says Kayla Ott, aquarium marketing and sponsorship manager.
The multi-grade level presentations "will reach communities unable to come to the aquarium due to funding," Ott says. GCA is planning 75 school visits for 2013, and in future years hopes to educate up to 10,000 students annually. What's more, the program falls in line with Ohio academic standards in the realm of science.
"Teachers will be excited to jump on board," says Ott. "They'll be building their curriculums and lesson plans by offering this program."
Generating passion about aquatic life and water conservation is GCA's stated mission. With the sewer district's assistance, the aquarium can now bring this mission to Cleveland impressionable youth.
"We're so fortunate to have a lake right here," Ott says. "Lake Erie is a huge piece of Cleveland. We're teaching students how to protect that resource."
SOURCE: Kayla Ott
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
GCA has partnered with the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD) for the education outreach program designed to teach kids the deep interconnection that Ohio has with its freshwater systems. This will be accomplished through Native-American lore, one-on-one time with native Ohio fish and reptiles, and hands-on activities that teach students the importance of protecting the area's local waterways.
The program, called Keepin' It Fresh, will be rolled out in local schools at the beginning of May, says Kayla Ott, aquarium marketing and sponsorship manager.
The multi-grade level presentations "will reach communities unable to come to the aquarium due to funding," Ott says. GCA is planning 75 school visits for 2013, and in future years hopes to educate up to 10,000 students annually. What's more, the program falls in line with Ohio academic standards in the realm of science.
"Teachers will be excited to jump on board," says Ott. "They'll be building their curriculums and lesson plans by offering this program."
Generating passion about aquatic life and water conservation is GCA's stated mission. With the sewer district's assistance, the aquarium can now bring this mission to Cleveland impressionable youth.
"We're so fortunate to have a lake right here," Ott says. "Lake Erie is a huge piece of Cleveland. We're teaching students how to protect that resource."
SOURCE: Kayla Ott
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Cleveland Social Venture Partners (CSVP) is an organization that helps the community's helpers. The group of individual donors accomplishes this worthy goal by pooling its varied skills to strengthen the business acumen of local nonprofits.
After getting linked with a nonprofit organization, CSVP's community professionals provide management support in finance, strategic planning, fund development, legal matters and marketing. CSVP also offers a range of information, workshops and resources to further develop the personal philanthropy of its partners.
"These are all the things an organization needs to be successful," says executive director Linda Springer. "Some nonprofits need assistance to thrive and carry out their missions."
Every other year CSVP holds its bigBANG! event to establish a long-term sponsorship with a local nonprofit. This year's event, to be held April 10 at the Cleveland State University Student Center, features eight nonprofits chosen by CSVP. Each organization will give a fast-pitch presentation to the bigBANG! audience, which will then vote for their favorite.
The chosen nonprofit will receive funding and in-depth consultation services from CSVP. Among this year's presenters are City Year, Drink Local, Drink Tap, Ingenuity and Ohio City Bicycle Coop. The organization is currently working with past vote winners Open Doors Academy and MedWish.
"We're looking for innovative ideas," says Springer. "It could be an organization adapting to its current needs, or wanting to make changes to become stronger."
Assisting these groups is beneficial to CSVP's members as well, adds the executive director. "We're strengthening our own skills to become better donors and philanthropists," she says.
SOURCE: Linda Springer
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
After getting linked with a nonprofit organization, CSVP's community professionals provide management support in finance, strategic planning, fund development, legal matters and marketing. CSVP also offers a range of information, workshops and resources to further develop the personal philanthropy of its partners.
"These are all the things an organization needs to be successful," says executive director Linda Springer. "Some nonprofits need assistance to thrive and carry out their missions."
Every other year CSVP holds its bigBANG! event to establish a long-term sponsorship with a local nonprofit. This year's event, to be held April 10 at the Cleveland State University Student Center, features eight nonprofits chosen by CSVP. Each organization will give a fast-pitch presentation to the bigBANG! audience, which will then vote for their favorite.
The chosen nonprofit will receive funding and in-depth consultation services from CSVP. Among this year's presenters are City Year, Drink Local, Drink Tap, Ingenuity and Ohio City Bicycle Coop. The organization is currently working with past vote winners Open Doors Academy and MedWish.
"We're looking for innovative ideas," says Springer. "It could be an organization adapting to its current needs, or wanting to make changes to become stronger."
Assisting these groups is beneficial to CSVP's members as well, adds the executive director. "We're strengthening our own skills to become better donors and philanthropists," she says.
SOURCE: Linda Springer
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Prom night is typically a highlight for teenagers, but the glitz and glamour of the once-in-a-lifetime event may be lost on teens battling cancer. For the last few years, A Prom to Remember has stepped in to give these young people a night they won't soon forget.
Thanks to the Cleveland nonprofit, teens with cancer will be getting their own special prom on April 5 at The Ritz-Carlton in downtown Cleveland. Organizers expect over 100 teens to attend the event.
"The idea is to give these kids something incredible to look forward to," says prom chair Jane Knausz.
The teens are patients from three area hospitals: Akron Children's Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital, and Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital. On prom night, they get the red carpet treatment, including limousine pickup, prom photos and entertainment. On hand will be cheerleaders from the Cleveland Cavaliers as well as members of the St. Ignatius Circus Company.
To prepare the young prom-goers for their big evening, a "Dress Extravaganza" event was held earlier this month at Eton Chagrin Boulevard. About 100 girls selected donated dresses of all sizes, shapes and colors, along with a bevy of jewelry and accessories. Their male counterparts were not left out, receiving tuxedos from American Tuxedo. Funding for accessories like gift bag items is still needed, notes Knausz. Those interested in donating can do so directly on the A Prom to Remember website.
A night away from chemotherapy and hospital gowns is its own kind of therapy, Knausz believes. "These kids can get together with others in the same situation," she says. "They know they're not alone."
SOURCE: Jane Knausz
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Thanks to the Cleveland nonprofit, teens with cancer will be getting their own special prom on April 5 at The Ritz-Carlton in downtown Cleveland. Organizers expect over 100 teens to attend the event.
"The idea is to give these kids something incredible to look forward to," says prom chair Jane Knausz.
The teens are patients from three area hospitals: Akron Children's Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital, and Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital. On prom night, they get the red carpet treatment, including limousine pickup, prom photos and entertainment. On hand will be cheerleaders from the Cleveland Cavaliers as well as members of the St. Ignatius Circus Company.
To prepare the young prom-goers for their big evening, a "Dress Extravaganza" event was held earlier this month at Eton Chagrin Boulevard. About 100 girls selected donated dresses of all sizes, shapes and colors, along with a bevy of jewelry and accessories. Their male counterparts were not left out, receiving tuxedos from American Tuxedo. Funding for accessories like gift bag items is still needed, notes Knausz. Those interested in donating can do so directly on the A Prom to Remember website.
A night away from chemotherapy and hospital gowns is its own kind of therapy, Knausz believes. "These kids can get together with others in the same situation," she says. "They know they're not alone."
SOURCE: Jane Knausz
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
"Ever dream of running your own restaurant as an executive chef, pastry chef or sommelier?"
That is the question asked by leaders of EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute. Fulfilling that dream would be a challenge for most anyone, but what about a person reentering society after incarceration?
Hoping to provide the answer is Brandon Chrostowski, general manager, sommelier and fromanger at L'Albatros restaurant. He is also founder of EDWINS, a Cleveland nonprofit providing free restaurant training to underprivileged adults. The 26-week program teaches cooking methods, pastry techniques, food pairings, nutrition and other facets that come with the culinary arts.
Ohio's recidivism rate stands at about 30 percent, according to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. Chrostowski, 33, believes these numbers reflect the lack of opportunities available for ex-inmates.
"There's no guidance and no jobs out there," he says. "Our goal is to provide these people with a skill and a solid path."
Students are rotated through every station of a restaurant, providing them with a variety of skills and real-world experience. Over the last two years, the program has assisted about 30 graduates in finding employment as line cooks, dishwashers and servers. Some students have already been promoted from these entry-level positions.
Chrostowski hit his own "rough patch" a decade ago, and was able to go back to school and hone his culinary craft. The restaurateur wants others to have the same opportunity he did. EDWINS' ultimate goal is to open a restaurant staffed entirely by program graduates.
"Everyone deserves a second shot," Chrostowski says. "This is a chance for people to change their lives."
SOURCE: Brandon Chrostowski
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
That is the question asked by leaders of EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute. Fulfilling that dream would be a challenge for most anyone, but what about a person reentering society after incarceration?
Hoping to provide the answer is Brandon Chrostowski, general manager, sommelier and fromanger at L'Albatros restaurant. He is also founder of EDWINS, a Cleveland nonprofit providing free restaurant training to underprivileged adults. The 26-week program teaches cooking methods, pastry techniques, food pairings, nutrition and other facets that come with the culinary arts.
Ohio's recidivism rate stands at about 30 percent, according to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. Chrostowski, 33, believes these numbers reflect the lack of opportunities available for ex-inmates.
"There's no guidance and no jobs out there," he says. "Our goal is to provide these people with a skill and a solid path."
Students are rotated through every station of a restaurant, providing them with a variety of skills and real-world experience. Over the last two years, the program has assisted about 30 graduates in finding employment as line cooks, dishwashers and servers. Some students have already been promoted from these entry-level positions.
Chrostowski hit his own "rough patch" a decade ago, and was able to go back to school and hone his culinary craft. The restaurateur wants others to have the same opportunity he did. EDWINS' ultimate goal is to open a restaurant staffed entirely by program graduates.
"Everyone deserves a second shot," Chrostowski says. "This is a chance for people to change their lives."
SOURCE: Brandon Chrostowski
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
With over 11 million visitors expected in downtown Cleveland this year (up from nine million last year), RTA officials sought last year to better connect the city's neighborhoods via public transportation. Their goal was to ensure that RTA is the transportation mode of choice for visitors to downtown.
Six months ago, RTA was able to launch expanded, free shuttle service downtown on weeknights and weekends, thanks to $2.88 million in federal transit money and $720,000 in donations. The program is funded for the next three years.
Speaking at a downtown tour last week, RTA General Manager Joe Calabrese touted the trolley service as a huge success for downtown Cleveland that will enhance the visitor experience as the Global Health Innovation Center opens.
"RTA experienced five percent growth last year," he said. "We think downtown growth will help us. We want to make public transit a viable option for tourists."
As downtown experiences a so-called "parking crunch," Calabrese said that RTA is increasingly becoming the transportation mode of choice. Trolleys run until 11 p.m.
There are five lines: The C-line, which links the casino with the convention center; the L-line, which focuses on lakefront destinations; the NineTwelve line, which helps shuttle office workers from large garages to offices on E. 9th; the E-line on Euclid Avenue; and the B-line on Superior and Lakeside Avenues. Trolleys start at 7 a.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. on weekends, and they arrive every 10 minutes.
The trolleys also serve downtown's growing residential population, expected to swell from 11,000 to 14,000 as new apartment projects open in the next two years. Another benefit? Helping office workers get around downtown easily.
Source: Joe Calabrese
Writer: Lee Chilcote
Six months ago, RTA was able to launch expanded, free shuttle service downtown on weeknights and weekends, thanks to $2.88 million in federal transit money and $720,000 in donations. The program is funded for the next three years.
Speaking at a downtown tour last week, RTA General Manager Joe Calabrese touted the trolley service as a huge success for downtown Cleveland that will enhance the visitor experience as the Global Health Innovation Center opens.
"RTA experienced five percent growth last year," he said. "We think downtown growth will help us. We want to make public transit a viable option for tourists."
As downtown experiences a so-called "parking crunch," Calabrese said that RTA is increasingly becoming the transportation mode of choice. Trolleys run until 11 p.m.
There are five lines: The C-line, which links the casino with the convention center; the L-line, which focuses on lakefront destinations; the NineTwelve line, which helps shuttle office workers from large garages to offices on E. 9th; the E-line on Euclid Avenue; and the B-line on Superior and Lakeside Avenues. Trolleys start at 7 a.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. on weekends, and they arrive every 10 minutes.
The trolleys also serve downtown's growing residential population, expected to swell from 11,000 to 14,000 as new apartment projects open in the next two years. Another benefit? Helping office workers get around downtown easily.
Source: Joe Calabrese
Writer: Lee Chilcote
As TEDxCLE blazes into its fourth year beneath the banner "Bonfire//Ignite," Clevelanders once again have responded with unfettered enthusiasm. This year's event, which will be held Thursday, March 21 at the Cleveland Museum of Art, sold all 700 tickets in 24 minutes. Here's a preview of the action.
For six decades, Young Audiences of Northeast Ohio has been promoting creative learning through the arts for local children and teenagers. A 60th-anniversary celebration requires something special, say the nonprofit's leaders. That means awarding residents who are harnessing the organization's arts-infused mission of contributing to the region's vitality.
Young Audiences is currently accepting nominations for its 2013 Arts, Education, and Entrepreneurship Awards. The nonprofit seeks those who have made a lasting impact in the three areas, as the innovation and creative thinking promoted by the arts help individuals succeed across all aspects of life, says development director Jerry Smith. Examples include teaching geometry through dance, or learning storytelling through digital game design.
"It's about the intersection of arts education and entrepreneurship," Smith says. "How does a creative education help drive that next entrepreneur?"
To answer that question, Smith's organization hosts workshops, performances, professional development programs and residencies for young people in the artistic realms of dance, music, theater and the visual arts.
Award nominees are due by April 12. Three winners from the categories of arts, education and entrepreneurship will be recognized at Young Audiences' 60th anniversary gala in September. Winners will receive a commemorative award and a contribution in their name made to the Young Audiences' Fund for Their Future.
An arts background is critical to melding young minds, believes the organization's leadership. Recognizing the individuals shaping that process is a natural step for the group, says Smith.
"Arts and culture are at the core of so much we do and how we succeed," he says.
SOURCE: Jerry Smith, Jennifer Abelson
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Young Audiences is currently accepting nominations for its 2013 Arts, Education, and Entrepreneurship Awards. The nonprofit seeks those who have made a lasting impact in the three areas, as the innovation and creative thinking promoted by the arts help individuals succeed across all aspects of life, says development director Jerry Smith. Examples include teaching geometry through dance, or learning storytelling through digital game design.
"It's about the intersection of arts education and entrepreneurship," Smith says. "How does a creative education help drive that next entrepreneur?"
To answer that question, Smith's organization hosts workshops, performances, professional development programs and residencies for young people in the artistic realms of dance, music, theater and the visual arts.
Award nominees are due by April 12. Three winners from the categories of arts, education and entrepreneurship will be recognized at Young Audiences' 60th anniversary gala in September. Winners will receive a commemorative award and a contribution in their name made to the Young Audiences' Fund for Their Future.
An arts background is critical to melding young minds, believes the organization's leadership. Recognizing the individuals shaping that process is a natural step for the group, says Smith.
"Arts and culture are at the core of so much we do and how we succeed," he says.
SOURCE: Jerry Smith, Jennifer Abelson
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
During a recent address at the City Club of Cleveland, Joel Ratner of Neighborhood Progress Inc. touted recent success stories that the nonprofit has invested in, including a new home for The Intergenerational School underway at the Saint Luke's campus.
Ratner believes that even though Cleveland has been hard hit by the foreclosure crisis, the city can stabilize its population and begin to grow again through promoting thoughtful, equitable, synergistic development that helps everyone succeed.
"For a long time, there was a debate over whether it makes sense to invest in people or place," said Ratner. "However, we believe it should be people and place."
Ratner cited Pittsburgh as an example of a city whose population has been right-sized and has even begun to grow again in recent years.
As examples of why community development matters, Ratner presented statistics showing that neighborhoods where NPI invested heavily over the past decade not only fell less steeply in the recession, but are also coming back more quickly than others. He also believes that every Cleveland neighborhood can be successful.
Ratner touted the recently-announced Slavic Village Reclaim Project, which leverages private investment by Safeco Properties and Forest City to help rehab 2,000+ properties on 440 acres, as one example of innovative best practices.
He also cited NPI's partnership with the Key Bank Financial Education Center to help low-income residents build wealth through savings and investment programs. Through a possible merger with Cleveland Neighborhood Development Coalition and LiveCleveland, Ratner hopes to begin serving additional neighborhoods.
Source: Joel Ratner
Writer: Lee Chilcote
Ratner believes that even though Cleveland has been hard hit by the foreclosure crisis, the city can stabilize its population and begin to grow again through promoting thoughtful, equitable, synergistic development that helps everyone succeed.
"For a long time, there was a debate over whether it makes sense to invest in people or place," said Ratner. "However, we believe it should be people and place."
Ratner cited Pittsburgh as an example of a city whose population has been right-sized and has even begun to grow again in recent years.
As examples of why community development matters, Ratner presented statistics showing that neighborhoods where NPI invested heavily over the past decade not only fell less steeply in the recession, but are also coming back more quickly than others. He also believes that every Cleveland neighborhood can be successful.
Ratner touted the recently-announced Slavic Village Reclaim Project, which leverages private investment by Safeco Properties and Forest City to help rehab 2,000+ properties on 440 acres, as one example of innovative best practices.
He also cited NPI's partnership with the Key Bank Financial Education Center to help low-income residents build wealth through savings and investment programs. Through a possible merger with Cleveland Neighborhood Development Coalition and LiveCleveland, Ratner hopes to begin serving additional neighborhoods.
Source: Joel Ratner
Writer: Lee Chilcote
it's final: cle charter schools score high in state tests
A network of free, public charter schools in Cleveland is performing on par with its suburban brethren, according to the final state school report cards released this week for the 2011-12 academic year.
The Breakthrough Schools network, a charter partner of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, kept pace with the Orange and Strongsville school districts in state testing of math, science and reading. Two of the programs -- The Intergenerational School (TIS) and Citizens Academy -- were rated "Excellent with Distinction" (the highest rating possible) by the Ohio Department of Education.
Matching report cards with two historically high-ranking districts is a proud moment for the charter program, says communications director Lyman Millard. The results are particularly telling for an area that does not have the economic advantages of its suburban counterparts.
"This is a dream behind all of our schools," says Millard. "The quality of education you receive should not be determined by the region you live in."
The testing covered over 1,000 Breakthrough students in grades 3 through 8. The program formed in 2010 as a collaboration of three charter organizations: Citizens Academy, E Prep/Village Prep and TIS. Since then, Breakthrough has opened five new schools across Cleveland in partnership with the Cleveland school district.
The final report cards’ release followed a months-long delay prompted by a state investigation into whether some districts improperly removed truant students from enrollment figures. With the numbers confirmed, Breakthrough has proven to be a more-than-viable option for a high-quality academic environment, maintains the program's directors.
"We have great schools with great teachers and high expectations," Millard says. "Cleveland families don't have to move to the suburbs if they want a good education for their children."
SOURCE: Lyman Millard
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
The Breakthrough Schools network, a charter partner of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, kept pace with the Orange and Strongsville school districts in state testing of math, science and reading. Two of the programs -- The Intergenerational School (TIS) and Citizens Academy -- were rated "Excellent with Distinction" (the highest rating possible) by the Ohio Department of Education.
Matching report cards with two historically high-ranking districts is a proud moment for the charter program, says communications director Lyman Millard. The results are particularly telling for an area that does not have the economic advantages of its suburban counterparts.
"This is a dream behind all of our schools," says Millard. "The quality of education you receive should not be determined by the region you live in."
The testing covered over 1,000 Breakthrough students in grades 3 through 8. The program formed in 2010 as a collaboration of three charter organizations: Citizens Academy, E Prep/Village Prep and TIS. Since then, Breakthrough has opened five new schools across Cleveland in partnership with the Cleveland school district.
The final report cards’ release followed a months-long delay prompted by a state investigation into whether some districts improperly removed truant students from enrollment figures. With the numbers confirmed, Breakthrough has proven to be a more-than-viable option for a high-quality academic environment, maintains the program's directors.
"We have great schools with great teachers and high expectations," Millard says. "Cleveland families don't have to move to the suburbs if they want a good education for their children."
SOURCE: Lyman Millard
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Cuyahoga County residents have picked which two large-scale projects will get funding through the Cuyahoga Arts & Culture (CAC) Creative Culture Grants competition.
* Dancing Wheels received $130,421 for a television documentary that will expand on the dance company's performance of the multi-media ballet, Dumbo. The film will explore issues of bullying and social injustice using the life stories of artists and community figures.
* LAND studio was awarded $150,000 to fund a multi-faceted light installation illuminating public spaces in downtown Cleveland.
Both projects were selected by 6,500 county residents in a public voting process held February 1-20. The winning arts programs, scheduled for completion in 2014, were chosen from a list of six finalists selected by an independent panel of arts and culture experts.
Officials from competition sponsor CAC were pleased by the voter turnout, and believe the winning projects will engage the region in creative ways.
"All six finalists had a different spin on how to connect arts and culture to the community," says CAC executive director Karen Gahl-Mills. "The two winners did a great job of reaching out to the general public."
CAC's pilot voting program revealed just how much creativity exists in the area, Gahl-Mills maintains. "It was delightful to see it come forward in new, exciting ways," she says.
The nonprofit is now assessing the program for possible future iterations. Gahl-Mills is not certain CAC will put on an annual public vote, but she can certainly envision county residents stuffing the ballot boxes for future arts projects.
"It's a great investment of public dollars," she says. "It isn't just the organizations that win; the community wins, too."
SOURCE: Karen Gahl-Mills
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
* Dancing Wheels received $130,421 for a television documentary that will expand on the dance company's performance of the multi-media ballet, Dumbo. The film will explore issues of bullying and social injustice using the life stories of artists and community figures.
* LAND studio was awarded $150,000 to fund a multi-faceted light installation illuminating public spaces in downtown Cleveland.
Both projects were selected by 6,500 county residents in a public voting process held February 1-20. The winning arts programs, scheduled for completion in 2014, were chosen from a list of six finalists selected by an independent panel of arts and culture experts.
Officials from competition sponsor CAC were pleased by the voter turnout, and believe the winning projects will engage the region in creative ways.
"All six finalists had a different spin on how to connect arts and culture to the community," says CAC executive director Karen Gahl-Mills. "The two winners did a great job of reaching out to the general public."
CAC's pilot voting program revealed just how much creativity exists in the area, Gahl-Mills maintains. "It was delightful to see it come forward in new, exciting ways," she says.
The nonprofit is now assessing the program for possible future iterations. Gahl-Mills is not certain CAC will put on an annual public vote, but she can certainly envision county residents stuffing the ballot boxes for future arts projects.
"It's a great investment of public dollars," she says. "It isn't just the organizations that win; the community wins, too."
SOURCE: Karen Gahl-Mills
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
A student-operated restaurant, a Cleveland-centric advocacy group, and a venture aiming to transform vacant lots into summer program spots for kids were the big winners of The Cleveland Colectivo's fast- pitch presentation event on February 28.
The high-energy affair hosted by Shaker LaunchHouse drew over 125 attendees. They voted on 46 presenters who came with innovative ideas and hopes of getting funding from the Colectivo, a grassroots, Cleveland-based giving circle that pools funds to make contributions in the community.
The three top vote-getters -- Edwins Leadership and Restaurant Institute, The 1990 Project and Literary Lots -- came with accessible, concisely presented ideas that inspired the crowd, says Colectivo founding member Judy Wright. As the crowd favorite, Edwins took home $770 in donations collected at the event.
Colectivo members will next consider the remaining projects to join the crowd's picks. As many as 12 additional ventures will have a chance at this year's grants, which generally range from $500 to $5,000. Grants will be determined and distributed in May.
"We're not a traditional grant-maker," says Wright. "We spend our entire budget every year, and there's no overhead costs. It's basically people putting cash in a pot and giving it away."
Wright, a Lakewood resident, created the Colectivo in 2004 with a group of like-minded friends from the nonprofit sector. She deems this year's fast-pitch event a success, even if every presenter will not be getting their idea funded. It's always good to see a disparate slice of Cleveland's demography getting together, she believes.
"There's some genuine connections being made," Wright says. "It's exciting and energizing. There is some real value in that."
SOURCE: Judy Wright
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
The high-energy affair hosted by Shaker LaunchHouse drew over 125 attendees. They voted on 46 presenters who came with innovative ideas and hopes of getting funding from the Colectivo, a grassroots, Cleveland-based giving circle that pools funds to make contributions in the community.
The three top vote-getters -- Edwins Leadership and Restaurant Institute, The 1990 Project and Literary Lots -- came with accessible, concisely presented ideas that inspired the crowd, says Colectivo founding member Judy Wright. As the crowd favorite, Edwins took home $770 in donations collected at the event.
Colectivo members will next consider the remaining projects to join the crowd's picks. As many as 12 additional ventures will have a chance at this year's grants, which generally range from $500 to $5,000. Grants will be determined and distributed in May.
"We're not a traditional grant-maker," says Wright. "We spend our entire budget every year, and there's no overhead costs. It's basically people putting cash in a pot and giving it away."
Wright, a Lakewood resident, created the Colectivo in 2004 with a group of like-minded friends from the nonprofit sector. She deems this year's fast-pitch event a success, even if every presenter will not be getting their idea funded. It's always good to see a disparate slice of Cleveland's demography getting together, she believes.
"There's some genuine connections being made," Wright says. "It's exciting and energizing. There is some real value in that."
SOURCE: Judy Wright
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Last week at the 2013 Movers and Shakers Awards, the Cleveland Professional 20/30 Club honored 25 area professionals under the age of 35 who are active in their communities. The event was held at Ariel International Center.
The up-and-coming leaders were honored for their work as volunteers or board members in the communities and businesses they are involved in. The keynote speaker was Jonathon Sawyer, chef-owner of Greenhouse Tavern and Noodlecat.
Sawyer spoke about moving back to Cleveland and how he and his wife wanted to make a difference in the city. He set out to open Cleveland’s first green certified restaurant, eventually succeeding and opening the Greenhouse Tavern. He spoke about his excitement that Cleveland is becoming recognized for its restaurant scene.
Honorees included Ryan Anderson, Chijioke Asomugha, Andrew Bennett, Emily Campbell, Michael Christoff, Rachel Ciomcia, Samantha Schartman-Cycyk, Katie Davis, Dave Diffendal, James Gasparatos, Donté Gibbs, John Hagerty, John Hausman, Julie L. Hill, Dominique LaRochelle, Amanda Leffler, Amanda Maggiotto, Timothy McCue, Kelly McGlumphy, Bryan Schauer, Lori Scott, Brent Shelley, Jeff Sobieraj, Jessica Wallis and Jonathan Wehner.
Gautam Pai, president of the 20/30 Club, stressed the importance of honoring young professionals.
“We hear constantly that young professionals are the future,” says Pai. “However, the future is the result of those things we're doing right now, in the present. Movers and Shakers is the Cleveland Professional 20/30 Club's opportunity to showcase those young professionals that are doing just that: Making positive contributions right now and serving as leading examples for all to follow.”
Sources: Gautam Pai
Writer: Karin Connelly
The up-and-coming leaders were honored for their work as volunteers or board members in the communities and businesses they are involved in. The keynote speaker was Jonathon Sawyer, chef-owner of Greenhouse Tavern and Noodlecat.
Sawyer spoke about moving back to Cleveland and how he and his wife wanted to make a difference in the city. He set out to open Cleveland’s first green certified restaurant, eventually succeeding and opening the Greenhouse Tavern. He spoke about his excitement that Cleveland is becoming recognized for its restaurant scene.
Honorees included Ryan Anderson, Chijioke Asomugha, Andrew Bennett, Emily Campbell, Michael Christoff, Rachel Ciomcia, Samantha Schartman-Cycyk, Katie Davis, Dave Diffendal, James Gasparatos, Donté Gibbs, John Hagerty, John Hausman, Julie L. Hill, Dominique LaRochelle, Amanda Leffler, Amanda Maggiotto, Timothy McCue, Kelly McGlumphy, Bryan Schauer, Lori Scott, Brent Shelley, Jeff Sobieraj, Jessica Wallis and Jonathan Wehner.
Gautam Pai, president of the 20/30 Club, stressed the importance of honoring young professionals.
“We hear constantly that young professionals are the future,” says Pai. “However, the future is the result of those things we're doing right now, in the present. Movers and Shakers is the Cleveland Professional 20/30 Club's opportunity to showcase those young professionals that are doing just that: Making positive contributions right now and serving as leading examples for all to follow.”
Sources: Gautam Pai
Writer: Karin Connelly
Last summer, the Near West Recreation League's t-ball league was a hit for Cleveland kids. Organizers believe a recently debuted bowling league will play a similarly big "roll" in the health of a community that didn't have much in the way of organized sports.
The bowling program, open to 70-plus youngsters between the ages of 6 and 10, launched February 16 at Corner Alley in downtown Cleveland. The league is part of a two-year partnership between Ohio Savings Bank and Ohio City Inc. to support recreation activities on the Near West Side. Downtown Cleveland Alliance is also a partner in the new program.
The bowling league was created for children from Tremont, Detroit Shoreway and other West Side enclaves, although similar to the t-ball league, kids have been coming from other parts of the city to participate.
"Sports are a great way of bringing people together at a young age," says Eric Wobser, executive director of Ohio City Inc.
They're also a method of keeping people in the neighborhood, maintain the rec league's leaders. Retaining young families in the 25- to 34-age group has been problematic for Ohio City and downtown. Sports can be another amenity that grows a neighborhood population, while also integrating a community of diverse backgrounds.
"It's improving the quality of life," Wobser says.
If the bowling league proves successful, the rec league will add other sports throughout the year. Plans for the remainder of 2013 include youth-oriented baseball, soccer and basketball. The league may "age up" as well, from young kids all the way to junior high students.
"We've struck a chord with the community," says Wobser.
SOURCE: Eric Wobser
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
The bowling program, open to 70-plus youngsters between the ages of 6 and 10, launched February 16 at Corner Alley in downtown Cleveland. The league is part of a two-year partnership between Ohio Savings Bank and Ohio City Inc. to support recreation activities on the Near West Side. Downtown Cleveland Alliance is also a partner in the new program.
The bowling league was created for children from Tremont, Detroit Shoreway and other West Side enclaves, although similar to the t-ball league, kids have been coming from other parts of the city to participate.
"Sports are a great way of bringing people together at a young age," says Eric Wobser, executive director of Ohio City Inc.
They're also a method of keeping people in the neighborhood, maintain the rec league's leaders. Retaining young families in the 25- to 34-age group has been problematic for Ohio City and downtown. Sports can be another amenity that grows a neighborhood population, while also integrating a community of diverse backgrounds.
"It's improving the quality of life," Wobser says.
If the bowling league proves successful, the rec league will add other sports throughout the year. Plans for the remainder of 2013 include youth-oriented baseball, soccer and basketball. The league may "age up" as well, from young kids all the way to junior high students.
"We've struck a chord with the community," says Wobser.
SOURCE: Eric Wobser
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
If Kauser Razvi has a say in it, underutilized spaces in Cleveland will be a place where a child's imagination can run wild, all thanks to power of the written word.
Razvi, founder of the Cleveland-based project management organization Strategic Urban Solutions, is the book-loving brains behind Literary Lots, a program that aims to "brings books to life" in a vacant lot, playground or other outdoor space.
To pilot this idea, Strategic Urban Solutions plans to launch its first Literary Lot this summer in Ohio City's Novak Park. In conjunction with Cleveland Public Library, LAND Studio, and Ohio City Writers, Razvi's group will recreate places, concepts, and adventures from select children's books. The space will also host educational programming, with the goal of bringing Cleveland's kids together through the cooperation of the city's cultural institutions.
"Libraries are community anchors," says Razvi. "We thought it would be cool to marry the idea of bringing books to life in places near our libraries."
The summer program spot would have books (of course), poetry readings or a movie based on the book the space is built around. Artists would enliven the space, perhaps decorating a small sandpit in which kids can dig for buried gold, just like the young adventurer from Treasure Island.
"I think of it as a 'comfortable artistic backyard,'" Razvi says.
Building a nice "backyard" isn't free. A Kickstarter fundraising campaign for the project begins at the end of February, with a minimum goal of $5,500. Razvi believes transforming an underused space into a reading zone for kids is well worth the price of admission.
SOURCE: Kauser Razvi
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth
Razvi, founder of the Cleveland-based project management organization Strategic Urban Solutions, is the book-loving brains behind Literary Lots, a program that aims to "brings books to life" in a vacant lot, playground or other outdoor space.
To pilot this idea, Strategic Urban Solutions plans to launch its first Literary Lot this summer in Ohio City's Novak Park. In conjunction with Cleveland Public Library, LAND Studio, and Ohio City Writers, Razvi's group will recreate places, concepts, and adventures from select children's books. The space will also host educational programming, with the goal of bringing Cleveland's kids together through the cooperation of the city's cultural institutions.
"Libraries are community anchors," says Razvi. "We thought it would be cool to marry the idea of bringing books to life in places near our libraries."
The summer program spot would have books (of course), poetry readings or a movie based on the book the space is built around. Artists would enliven the space, perhaps decorating a small sandpit in which kids can dig for buried gold, just like the young adventurer from Treasure Island.
"I think of it as a 'comfortable artistic backyard,'" Razvi says.
Building a nice "backyard" isn't free. A Kickstarter fundraising campaign for the project begins at the end of February, with a minimum goal of $5,500. Razvi believes transforming an underused space into a reading zone for kids is well worth the price of admission.
SOURCE: Kauser Razvi
WRITER: Douglas J. Guth