Community

Would you like to volunteer close to home where you can make a meaningful difference to families in the community? Hospice of the Western Reserve, a nonprofit organization that helps families through one of life’s most difficult times, is seeking caring people who want to give back to others by becoming a hands-on care volunteer. New volunteers are needed to join the hospice team to provide compassionate support and comfort to patients and families at David Simpson Hospice House, the inpatient care unit on E. 185th Street in Collinwood.

Perspective is defined as, “a way of looking at something or a frame of reference”.  Recently my wife, Dr. Martina Moore, and I had the privilege of participating in a program that has drastically altered our perspective. The Euclid Police Department has a program called “A Day in the Life of a Euclid Police Officer”. At a recent Coffee Connection sponsored by the Euclid Chamber of Commerce, we were invited by Officer George Panagiotou to what we thought was a workshop or a lecture on the basics of police work. It turned out to be much more than that.

Backhoes and bulldozers signal the start of construction on a new O'Reilly Auto Parts store at the corner of East 200th Street and Lindbergh Avenue. 

Eight-time Emmy award-winning journalist, Romona Robinson visited the Euclid Public Library on Thursday, July 20, to discuss her new book, 'A Dirt Road to Somewhere.' She spoke with elegance while discussing all her stories from growing up as a child raised by a single mother with ten siblings, raised up in poverty. She had challenges, but that didn’t stop her from overcoming them. She talked about how going to school and church were her top priorities and how it shaped her character today. Robinson emphasized that "No matter how good of a person you are, you’ll have challenges and setbacks; but if you want something just go for it no matter what people say."

What was truly interesting was how determined you have to be in the media industry. You have to be passionate about it, and you can’t just quit when things get tough. Robinson had a shocking experience where she crossed paths with the Ku Klux Klan and experienced sexual harassment while interviewing an NBA player. However, she had many good experiences in the industry such as meeting President Obama and Nelson Mandela. Romona Robinson inspires many people today including children. Robinson is known for her uplifting stories called, “Romona’s Kids” on Cleveland 19 News. Today she strives for making a difference in the community one step at a time. 'A Dirt Road to Somewhere' is available now at the Euclid Public Library.

Silhouette Productions would like to thank all Volunteers, Donators, Hole Sponsors, Golfers, Entertainment, Briardale Greens and their professional Staff for making this event a success.

Despite rising interest rates, homeowners still can find monthly savings by refinancing their mortgage.

This school year, Euclid Cooperative Preschool will celebrate 70 years of service to families in Euclid and its surrounding communities.  The preschool is unique as it is continues to operate as a non-profit, parent-run cooperative that encourages families to volunteer daily in our classrooms.  Parents, grandparents and caregivers have the opportunity to participate in their preschooler’s first formal school experience.  In order to assure families that their children are receiving a high quality preschool education, the school maintains a 5 Star Step Up to Quality Rating. Graduates leave our classrooms prepared for the rigorous demands of today’s kindergarten programs

(Q&A with John Willett, Strongsville High School and Polaris Career Center graduating senior)

On May 23rd, Key Bank staff made a difference in the community by volunteering their time at Shore Cultural Centre. Mayor Kirsten Holzheimer Gail welcomed the group before they began their tasks, which included basic maintenance, painting, and gardening. Through help such as this, Shore is able to make strides on many projects and wish to thank Key Bank for their generous help. 

Marriage advice isn’t something you’d normally expect to hear from Mike Losneck, the CEO at Eaton Family Credit Union. He’s normally pretty reserved.

A Big Invitation to Visit a Tiny Garden

An evening of celebration and discovery; Euclid’s Urban Farm and Garden Night will be held on Wednesday, August 8th, from 5:30-8:00pm. Come out to Veteran’s Combating Child Hunger Farm, an urban farm located at the former St. Robert Church site at Lakeshore Boulevard and East 242nd Street, to explore and celebrate urban agriculture in Euclid.  This event is free and open to all; there will be fun activities for children, tastings of locally grown food, and plenty to learn.  Mark your calendars and spend a summer evening learning about the urban farming opportunities in Euclid, such as keeping your own bees, hens, or garden.  Urban agriculture is a vital aspect to building stronger communities, and its success can be seen throughout the country, the Cleveland area, and right here in Euclid. Let’s celebrate Euclid’s urban farms, home and community gardens, and the current and future urban agriculture pursuits in our city!

We are in the home stretch for the City of Euclid to have brand new tennis courts. The pavement is laid, the nets and fences will soon follow. Once construction is complete there will be 5 full tennis courts and 2 full pickle ball courts available to the community. The Euclid Recreation has altered the tennis programs that were offered through the summer due to the delays in building the new courts. A new tennis program has been created to help compensate for the programs that were delayed due to the construction. The new program will be a Tennis Camp. The Camp will be held through Monday-Thursday, July 23rd-26th from 10am-12: 30 pm. The camp will include an hour of lessons and drills and an hour of matches, both singles and doubles. The price of the Tennis Camp will be Residents $ 35 | Non-Residents $60. This new program will give community members a way to get more active on brand new courts. While expanding the courts, it will give an opportunity for more residents to be able to be apart of the camp and play on the court.

Ursuline College has announced the students named to its President’s List and Dean’s List for the spring 2018 semester. Full-time students who attain a 4.0 semester grade point average are eligible for the President’s List. Full-time students who attain a semester grade point average of between 3.5 and 3.999 are eligible for the Dean’s List.

The Euclid Demolition Program continues to improve the community through the selective removal of vacant and abandoned properties.  This spring, ten structures have been demolished using grant funds from the Cuyahoga County Demolition Fund.

For several years, employees from Forest City have generously donated many hours of their time and talent to complete a variety of volunteer projects at Hospice of the Western Reserve. The volunteer projects are part of the organization’s annual Community Day and provide a way to give back to the local community. 

Mark your calendars for June 21st, as the Euclid Hunger Center hosts its 7th Annual Kick Off Summer fundraiser, from 6:00-9:00 pm, at the Pavilion at Briardale Greens Golf Course.   This year’s event promises to be better than ever, with tickets including a delicious picnic style dinner, free drinks, great music and the chance to win a variety of fantastic raffle baskets.   The event is the EHC’s main fundraising affair of the year, with all proceeds going directly to assisting the more than 1,400 Euclid residents served at the Center each month.    With the Hunger Center actively striving to help even more families this year, and collaborating with other organizations to address the many outside influences that cause food insecurity,  it is crucial that the necessary funds be raised to keep these programs running.   So gather your family and friends, and join the Hunger Center for a fun evening of "Neighbors Helping Neighbors."    For more information, or to purchase tickets, please contact EHC at 216-731-3329 or euclidhungercenter@gmail.com

At the Community and Neighborhood Engagement Committee Meeting on May 16, 2018, I continued talking about the “conversations” that I am intently working on developing.  One of my colleagues asked if I was talking about conversations between residents and council/government or conversation between residents.

Don’t forget your lawn chair and bug spray when you head out to Euclid’s Outdoor Movie Nights select Fridays this summer! Join us at three different Euclid elementary schools out on the lawn for programming at 8pm and the feature movies that begin at approximately 9pm.

We are honored to be a host for this year's Cleveland Foundation Common Ground community discussion on Sunday June 24th.  Common Ground creates a network of community conversations where residents can meet, share a meal, connect and discuss.  This neighborhood wide event will bring residents together for a day of community conversation around tables across the region.

Mr. Corn Durden (The Foreman) and Mr. Chris Irby (The Bean Counter) have brought a slice of cigar heaven to Euclid. Be sure to stop in see the amazing remodel job they have done to the storefront located at 524 E. 200th St., right across the street from the school. From the oak tables to the comfortable leather chairs everything is first-class.

A wide range of cigars are available in their walk-in humidor. Special events are planned every week so be sure to check out their Facebook and Twitter to find out what is next.

They are open Monday through Thursday 1 to 9 PM, Friday and Saturday 1to 11 PM and Sunday 1 to 7 PM. The hours may be extended for sporting events.

The Renwood luxury cigar lounge does not have a liquor license but you are encouraged to BYOB. Be sure to stop in soon and say the Observer sent you.

It’s estimated Americans will spend more than $72 billion on their pets this year, up almost $3 billion since last year.

      The Stroll Family has already assembled for two breakfasts and one lunch (we love to eat) in our attempt to plan and organize a celebration worthy of our favorite street.  We have had lots of fun sharing stories of past gatherings and how we have matured (or maybe not) in our party-planning wisdom over the years. 

Cool off this summer by joining the Euclid Panthers Summer Swim Team.

Practices start Monday, June 4th at Euclid Memorial Pool. Register at http://www.cityofeuclid.com/recreation/Programs/PantherSwimTeam or in person at the Euclid Recreation Department. 

The Hear, hear! Club, an iN Education's program, is a year round well-rounded all-inclusive English proficiency program for K-K3 students. The name of the Club is inspired by the original phrase “Hear, hear!” as originated in 17th century parliament to call attention to the speaker. The 17th century was a time where people of high status were extremely proficient in English. English proficiency was an essential tool for getting connected within society, securing high levels of employment, and gaining status within the community. This essential skill has not changed since the 17th century.

The Lakeland Civic Association begins its annual membership renewal drive in the month of June. It organizes events and activities throughout the year. LCA will hold its main business meeting of the year on June 7th at 7:30 at the Wickliffe Public Library when it will elect officers and plan upcoming events. LCA's annual yard sale is first to come. It has set the date for Saturday, June 19th.

From April 1 to May 15th Action CARSTAR Auto Body, 21200 St. Clair Avenue in Euclid participated in the Greater Cleveland Food Bank’s “Harvest for Hunger” campaign.  Thanks to the generosity of Action’s employees and customers, over 100 lbs. of non-perishable goods were collected at the shop as well as over $1,400 collected from the virtual website setup online through the Food Bank.

On Fri, June 29 2018, at 7:00 pm, The Collinwood Slovenian Home is having a fundraiser that will be a fun time for everyone.

On May 17th Progressive Insurance’s Marketing department walked away from their desks and to take time to give back to the community. This year Shore Cultural Centre has been very fortunate to have several different departments from Progressive give their time towards helping with the building and grounds. Progressive employees look forward to volunteering and were pleased to once again partner with Shore Cultural Centre to complete numerous jobs that ranged from basic maintenance, painting, and gardening.

“Healthy Temple: Supporting Healthy Mind, Bodies and Spirits” June 9th, 11-13th, 2018

Come to the St. John of the Cross Parish Campus, 140 Richmond Road in Euclid for a free series of summer events open to the entire community! Our mission is to share our God-given gifts, embrace our diversity and engage in social outreach, service and education. We invite you to join our parish family for these personally helpful and spiritually uplifting events:

Open auditions for Shrek The Musical at Silhouette Productions!

Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure, featuring all new songs from Jeanine Tesori (Thoroughly Modern Millie; Caroline, or Change) and a sidesplitting book by David Lindsay-Abaire. Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there's more to the story than meets the ears.

Produced by Charlotte Mirabile
Directed by Douglas F. Bailey II
Musically Directed by Dave Coxe
Choreography by Jen Justice

When: June 20th and 27th from 7:00 pm- 9:30 pm. No appointment necessary. Please arrive at 7:00 pm and be prepared to move. CALLBACKS July 7th 12-5 PM if necessary by invitation only.

Production Dates: October 12-21

Where: Shore Cultural Center Room 242

What to prepare: Please prepare two 32 bar cuts of contrasting musical theatre songs in the style of the show. Please also prepare a short joke.

SHREK will begin rehearsals August 26th and runs October 12-21. Rehearsals will generally be Sunday Afternoons, and Monday-Thursday evenings. 

There are no AEA contracts for this production. ALL ROLES ARE AVAILABLE.

QUESTIONS? Email the director at douglasfbaileyii@gmail.com

A Note on Casting:
It is the director's goal to engage a large and diverse cast in this family friendly classic. All races, creeds, gender identities, sexual orientations, ages, and body types are encouraged to audition and will be considered for all roles when casting.

Shrek
Our story's title character. A big, green, terrifying ogre who lives alone on a swamp. He embarks on a journey to rid his land of fairytale creatures and, along the way, falls in love with Fiona. Begins as a grumpy hermit, but reveals his layers and eventually becomes the hero.
Vocal range top: G#4
Vocal range bottom: A2

Fiona
The beautiful princess of Far Far Away, she transforms into an ogre every night when the sun sets. Rescued by Shrek and eventually falls in love with him. Quirky, blunt, and multitalented, she is not an ordinary princess. TAP DANCE EXPERIENCE PREFERRED
Vocal range top: G5
Vocal range bottom: F3

Donkey
A talking donkey who joins Shrek on the run from Farquaad's guards. Quite the chatterbox, he is not deterred by Shrek's looks and practically forces himself into his good graces. Easily frightened and pushy, but also an optimistic with heart.
Vocal range top: B4
Vocal range bottom: C3

Lord Farquaad
The comically short, ruthless ruler of Duloc. He is in search of a princes to marry so that he can become king. Has an intensely unfair bias against fairytale creatures that stems from a resentment of his father. Self-absorbed, lonely, and cruel.
Vocal range top: D5
Vocal range bottom: B2

Dragon
A dragon that has been charged with guarding Princess Fiona in her isolated castle. She eventually falls in love with Donkey and attempts to keep him there forever. Imposing and flirtatious, but tired of her job as the glorified baby-sitter.
Vocal range top: Eb5
Vocal range bottom: F3

Gingy
A gingerbread man initially kidnapped by Lord Farquaad. His wit and resolution help him both avoid trouble and inspire the rest of the fairytale creatures. Puppet. Can be operated by actress appearing as Sugar Plum Fairy.
Vocal range top: C#5
Vocal range bottom: B3

Pinocchio
The leader of the fairytale creatures. He is an animated puppet whose nose grows every time he lies. Plenty of sass with a penchant for lying.
Vocal range top: F#4
Vocal range bottom: E3

Ensemble (also features Children's ensemble)
Fairytale Creatures (Big Bad Wolf, Three Little Pigs, White Rabbit, Fairy Godmother, Peter Pan, Wicked Witch, Ugly Duckling, Three Bears, Mad Hatter, Humpty Dumpty, Elf, Dwarf, Three Blind Mice); Angry Mob; Happy People; Guards; Knights; Rats

If you are a public service organization providing assistance to citizens of Euclid or northeast Ohio, I would like to air PSA's to assist your cause(absolutely FREE of charge). I own and operate a 24/7 internet radio station that is a totally not-for-profit venture. We're committed to community and public service and would gladly assist in your mission. Contact me at wjplecha@gmail.com

Euclid resident Devlin Chambers is completing round three of his Americorps assignment and will be home and ready to start college at the end of July. His current work has been in Central Oregon where his Americorps team installed water-conserving shower heads and LED light bulbs in residents' homes. Both devices use a fraction of  the energy required by standard bulbs in a region that regularly experiences droughts and depends on hydroelectric power. His last assignment will be doing housing rehab in Portland, Oregon for low-income households shut out of assistance in the midst of escalated housing prices on the West Coast.

In 2006, the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, along with former Cleveland Mayor Michael White, established a leadership training program for engaged neighborhood leaders.  The Neighborhood Leadership Development Program is a free, 16 session community engagement training program for residents of Cleveland, and its inner ring suburbs, who are working on projects within the City of Cleveland and who are determined to make a positive impact on their communities.

The Lakeland Civic Association expressed its gratitude to its president of twenty-four years, Mary Czyzycki. At its April 12 meeting. Euclid mayor Kirsten Holzheimer-Gail presented the honoree with a City Proclamation recognizing Mary for her many years of commitment and service to the City. The mayor was introduced by Ward Six Councilman John Wojtila who represents the LCA neighborhood and who spoke admiringly of Mrs Czyzycki's lifelong activism in Euclid and of his personal affection for her and the work they have done together over the years.

The April meeting was well attended by LCA members and by several members of Mrs Czyzycki's family.

Mayor Holzheimer-Gail's Proclamation recounted the highlights of Mary Czyzycki's achievements as an active Euclid citizen.

Mary grew up on in Euclid with brothers Charles and Walter and parents Ralph and Ida Hill. Father Ralph was a Euclid councilman, recreation commissioner, and American Legion member. Mary Hill attended Shore High School in Euclid and was inducted into its Sports Hall of Fame. She later attended Arcadia University where she was inducted into its Sports Hall of Fame.

CASA of Cuyahoga County, a program of Child and Family Advocates of Cuyahoga County, recruits, screens, trains, and supports volunteers who act as independent fact-finders for the court in cases involving child abuse and neglect. 

HELP Foundation never passes up an opportunity to better our community and we did just that by participating in The Big Clean 2018.  For this year’s project, our friends at Upstage Players Builders Club came out to help us clean up the mess winter left behind at our Oak Court home.  The group helped pick up sticks, mulch and plant flowers, rake leave and even helped us set up our patio furniture!  Everyone had a great time getting ready for spring.  We would like to extend a BIG thank you to all the children and parents that came out to help us.  We are very grateful for their time and energy.

One of the most important talks a parent can have with their child is the “Money Talk.”

Summer vaction is just around the corner. If you are looking for something for your child to do this summer, why not send them to the Beat the Streets (BTS) Fun Day Summer Camp This is the sixth year for this camp located right here in Euclid.  Summer Camp is held at the ELC (Early Learning Center).  Campers will be dropped off and picked up from the ELC.