History will have to record that the greatest tragedy of ...

January 2020 Volume 2 - Issue 1

“History will have to record that the greatest tragedy of this period of social transition was not the strident clamor of the bad people, but the appalling silence of the good people.” ~Martin Luther King, Jr.

WARD SEVEN OBSERVER

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES IN WARD 7: MIDTOWN, ST. CLAIR-SUPERIOR, ASIATOWN, AND HOUGH

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1 www.ward7observer.com January 2020

Kansas City to Make its Bus System Fare-Free. Will Cleveland Do the Same?

Blair Alexis

Kansas City is taking a fresh approach to its public transit system. Beginning in 2020, all fares will be eliminated for its riders. This will make Kansas City the first major city to offer free public transportation. This approach will not only break f inancial barr iers for residents of Kansas City, but will also eliminate fare evaders. An in c r ea se o f p a s se n g er s i s expected for the pioneering city which would create environmental benefits as well. By moving more people with fewer vehicles, public t r a n sp o r t a t io n c an r ed u c e greenhouse gas emiss ions. According to its 2018 budget, the Kansas City bus system services about 44,000 passengers on an average weekday, and 1.2% of Kansas City residents commute to work via public transit. So, what about a city l ike Cleveland, where more residents

are using the public transit system. “The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides transportation services for 150,000-200,000 customers on a typical weekday” (riderta.com /overview). With approximately 280 million in Operating expenditures and nearly 50% being salaries and overtime, eliminating fares could decrease the need for security. This reduction in salaries could c o v e r t h e f a r e r e v e n u e . “ P a s s e n g e r f a r e s c o v e r approximately 18-20 percent of the operating cost of RTA’s service.” (www.riderta.com/ financialmanagementinitiatives). Could this be a possibility for residents in our own city? And how would this change the passenger experience? It’ll take t i m e b e f o r e w e c a n t r u l y measure the success of Kansas City’s bus initiative. “I believe that people have a right to move about this city,” Kansas City district councilman, Eric Bunch, who co-sponsored the measure a long with Mayor Quinton Lucas, told a local radio station. “I don’t want to do it for any sort of national recognition; I want to do it because it’s the right thing to do.”

WOVU The Radio Station of The People Morris H Erwin, Jr.

the quality of life on the residents living in the community and in the City of Cleveland. For example, shows such as the Truth Be Told, Out of The Conservative Closet, and Let’s Talk About It, explore issues of sexism, education, politics, family and culture. There is also a wide variety of music played on WOVU such as inspirational music, hip -hop, rhythm and blues, Jazz, and reggae provide the hook that brings the listeners to take a deeper dive into more pressing social and political problems. Great community radio keeps listeners abreast on important news and happenings at the local level. WOVU 95.9 operates under the motto that people support what they help create, and WOVU

Jae Williams is the champion for 95.9 WOVU birthing something n e w . J a e i s t h e d y n a m i c , charismatic and committed Genera l Manager o f W OVU community radio station. WOVU is about to celebrate its two-year anniversary on January 8, 2020. Jae has been entrusted with the vision of executive director Tim Tramble to provide solution oriented programming that gives p e o p l e a v o i c e , v a l u a b l e information, resources, and a platform that helps them achieve social and economic progress through on-air broadcasting and a s s o c i a t e d s o c i a l m e d i a platforms. WOVU 95.9 FM-LP is a community radio station that is represented by Burten, Bell, Carr Development INC. BBC, a non-profit community development corporation serving Cleveland’s C e n t r a l a n d K i n s m a n neighborhoods. Throughout this i n t e r v i e w , J a e c o n s t a n t l y reinforced the ultimate goal of WOVU, which is to unite many voices that help the community thrive not just strive.

The OVU stands for “Our Voices United” Jae brings a fresh, new innovat ive approach to the programs. WOVU is dedicated to making sure that the staff is properly trained and equipped to meet the diverse needs of the community. Three rigorous

that I love very much. This is my next opportunity to help change lives and I’m thankful to Tim Tr amb le an d th e Boar d o f Directors for believing in me." Jae’s advice for the young generation, “Wake up with a purpose, and every time life knocks you on your back, look up, get up and push up. Each time you get back up, you have one more second to get it right. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t accomplish your dreams. You build the skill, stay humble, and the doors will open. Just like the doors opened for Amanda Berry, t h e y o u n g l a d y t h a t w a s kidnapped for ten years and survived. The door was cracked a little and she called for help and the rest i s h is to ry . Be the champion. We will continue to do everything we can to keep the residents engaged”.

classes must be taken that give basic radio instructions and a thir-ty-five-page manual must be memorized and applied to the on-air daily routine while working with high tech equipment. WOVU offers sixty-five programs on their station weekly that repre-sent different voices. Shows that uncover a variety of social issues such as: domestic violence, hu-man trafficking/sexual violence, medical and educational gaps and disparities, racism, unem-ployment, voting rights, and many other issues that directly impact

provides exciting and creative ways to engage, involve, and up-lift the community. J a e a n d h i s t e a m n e v e r dreamed of being able to impact so many lives using the power of media and broadcasting.”S”He says, ”I get paid at doing a job

The General Manager, Jae “The Gospel Kid” Williams

Burton, Bell and Carr Director, Tim Tramble

Tieran (TC) Lewis, Production Director

WOVU Music Director Christopher “DJ Kristyles” Westbrook

The Ward Seven Observer

City

www.ward7observer.com January 2020

Volume 2 - Issue 1 January 2020

Article Submission Policy

The Ward7Observer will take article submissions electronically via email or

through ward7observer.com.

Registration required. Submitter must provide name, email address, and

phone number with submission.

W A R D 7 O B S E R V E R The Ward7 Observer is a community based news monthly published by The Calhoun Corporation LLC, dedicated to providing information and re-sources that will uplift and enhance the Ward 7

community. Copyright 2019

NO REPRODUCTION WITHOUT PERMISSION.

PUBLISHER

Ronald A. Calhoun

[email protected]

EDITORS

Patricia Johnson Executive

Daina Dortch ENews

Devon Jones Social Media

WRITERS

Margaret Adams, Blair Alexis, Angela Bennett,

Carla Calhoun, Rashay Davis, Mansfield Frazier

Kia Grayson, Ray Hom, Desiree James,

Meryl Johnson, Melvin Mason, Kevin May,

Erwin Morris, Albert Najieb, Mylonne Sullivan

ADVERTISING

Carla A. Calhoun

[email protected]

Free Community Events (Registration Required: www.eventbrite.com )

Cleveland Live Music Showcase! Thurs, Jan 2nd Time: 5:00PM – 11:00PM Stella's Music Club 2217 E. 9th Street Cleveland, OH 44115

Bottoms Up! FREE Yoga at the Library [Yoga & Brew] Thurs, Jan 2nd Time: 6:30PM – 7:30PM Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library 13866 Cedar Road University Heights, OH 44118 MIX: Fortune Chinese artist Liu Wei Fri, Jan 3rd Time: 6:00PM – 10:00PM The Cleveland Museum of Art 11150 East Blvd Cleveland, Ohio 44106 Job Fair The International Exposition Center Sat, Jan 4th Time: 9:00AM – 1:00PM 1 I-X Center Dr. Cleveland, OH 44135 FREE WEEKEND w/Lo-Pan/Rebreather/ Hiram-Maxim/Sparrow Milk Sat, Jan 4th Time: 8:00PM Grog Shop 2785 Euclid Heights Blvd Cleveland, OH 44106

Therapy Thursday Singer-Songwriter Event by Braxton Taylor Thurs, Jan 9th Time: 8:00PM – 11:00PM 2247 Professor Avenue Cleveland, OH 44113 FREE DARKROOM ORIENTATION Cleveland Print Room Sat, Jan 11th Time: 11:00AM – 12:00PM 2550 Superior Avenue Cleveland, OH 44114

Jazz Jam Session @ BOP STOP BOP STOP at The Music Settlement Fri, January 17th Time: 11:00PM – 2:00AM 2920 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44113 Cleveland Jazz Orchestra Silver Hall Concert Series 2019-2020 Sat, Jan 18th Time: 7:30PM – 9:00PM Maltz Performing Arts Center 1855 Ansel Rd., Cleveland, Ohio 44106 Parking $5.00 Hear Our Voices: Free MLK Day Celebration Mon, Jan 20th Time: 11:30AM – 5:00PM Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage 2929 Richmond Rd. Beachwood, OH 44122

SERMON BY: THE REVEREND DR. OTIS MOSS, JR. MUSICAL PERFORMANCE BY: THE EVELYN WRIGHT QUARTET DOCUMENTARY FILM SCREENING OF “SOUNDTRACK FOR A REVOLUTION” TOUR MUSEUM GALLERIES

SME Cleveland Business After Hours After-work networking, drinks, and fun. Wed, Jan 22th Time: 5:30PM – 7:30PM Foundation Room 308 Euclid Avenue Cleveland, OH 44114 Registration Required! IMS SHOW - CLEVELAND, OH - KIDS STACYC ZONE STACYC electric bikes at the Cleveland IMS Show Fri, Jan 24, 2020, 3:00 PM Sun, Jan 26, 2020, 5:00 PM 1 I-X Center Dr. Cleveland, OH 44135 Lunar New Year Celebration at Asia Plaza Sat, Jan 25th Time: 10:00AM – 7:00PM Asia Plaza 2999 Payne Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44114 Winter Opening Night Party Fri, Jan 31st Time: 6:00PM – 9:00PM Museum of Contemporary Art 11400 Euclid Avenue Cleveland, OH 44106

Shannon M. Gallagher Steve Gall Daniel Gaul Michael E. Jackson Wanda Jones David T. Matia Robert C. McClelland Timothy McCormick Nancy R. McDonnell Sherrie Miday John P. O'Donnell John J. Russo Joseph D. Russo Michael J. Russo Nancy Margaret Russo Shirley Strickland Saffold Michael Shaughnessy Brendan J. Sheehan John D. Sutula Kathleen Ann Sutula Joan Synenberg Deborah M. Turner José A. Villanueva

Domestic Relations Division Leslie Ann Celebrezze Rosemary Grdina Gold Francine Goldberg Tonya Jones Cheryl S. Karner Diane M. Palos Juvenile Division Patrick F. Corrigan Alison Nelson Floyd Thomas F. O'Malley Denise Nancy Rini Michael John Ryan (Ohio) Kristin W. Sweeney Probate Division Cleveland Anthony J. Russo Laura J. Gallagher Cleveland Municipal Court Lauren C. Moore Emanuella Groves, Shiela Turner McCall Marilyn B. Cassidy Pinkey S. Carr Charles L. Patton Joseph J. Zone Suzan Marie Sweeney Michael L. Nelson, Sr. Jazmin Torres-Lugo Michelle Denise Earley Ronald J.H. O'Leary Ann Clare Oakar Cleveland Housing Court W. Mona Scott Court Of Claims Dale A. Crawford Patrick M. McGrath

The Supreme Court of Ohio Chief Justice Maureen O'Connor Justice Sharon L. Kennedy Justice Judith L. French Justice Patrick F. Fischer Justice R. Patrick DeWine Justice Michael P. Donnelly Justice Melody J. Stewart Appellate Judges: District 8 Patricia Ann Blackmon Mary J. Boyle Frank D. Celebrezze Jr. Eileen A. Gallagher Eileen T. Gallagher Sean C. Gallagher Raymond C. Headen Larry A. Jones Sr. Kathleen Ann Keough Mary Eileen Kilbane Anita Laster Mays Michelle J. Sheehan Cuyahoga Common Pleas Court Dick Ambrose Janet R. Burnside Deena R. Calabrese Cassandra Collier-Williams Maureen Clancy Brian J. Corrigan Peter J. Corrigan Carolyn B. Friedland Stuart A. Friedman Nancy A. Fuerst Kelly Ann Gallagher Hollie L. Gallagher

U.S, Senate (Ohio) (3 of 100 Members) Sherrod Brown (D)-Senator Robert Portman (R)-Senator Bob Gibbs (R)-Senator

U.S. House of Representatives (16 of 435 Members) Jim Jordan Dist-4 (R) Joyce Beatty Dist-3 (D) Bill Johnson Dist-6 (R) Marcy Kaptur Dist-9 (D) Warren Davidson Dist-8 (R) Marcia Fudge Dist-11 (D) David Joyce Dist-14 (R) Bob Gibbs Dist-7 (R) Steve Stivers Dist-15 (R) Anthony Gonzalez Dist-16 (R) Brad Wenstrup Dist-2 (R) Michael Turner Dist-10 (R) Tim Ryan Dist-4 (R) Troy Balderson Dist-12 (R) Steve Chabot Dist-1 (R) Bob Latta Dist-5 (R)

Ohio Senate (1 of 33 Members) Sandra Williams Dist-21 (D)

Ohio House of Representatives 99 Members Kent Smith Dist-8 (D) Cleveland, East Cleveland, Euclid, Richmond Heights Shaker, Beachwood, South Euclid, Woodmere, and University Heights Janine Boyd- Dist-9 (D) Cleveland, Euclid, East Cleveland, Richmond Heights, South Euclid, and Beachwood. Terrence Upchurch Dist-10 (D) Cleveland, Bratenal, and South Collinwood Stephanie Howse Dist-11 (D) Cleveland, Cleveland Heights, Shaker, South Euclid and University Heights Juanita Brent Dist-12 (D) Cleveland, Bedford, Beachwood, Highland, Orange, Pepper Pike, Woodmere, and Mayfield Heights Cuyahoga County Council District 7: Yvonne M. Conwell District 8: Pernel Jones, Jr., District 9: Shontel Brown

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Government

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Applications Now Being Accepted for

ATTENTION CITY OF CLEVELAND RESIDENTS. Applications are being accepted for the 2020 Exterior Paint Program which provides paint and materials to homeowners for the exterior of their homes. Homeowners, as wel l as tenants , who meet income guideline requirements may submit an application for the program. Funds cover the cost up to $1,500 for owner occupants and $750 for tenants in paint and materials. Labor is not included. Applications must be received by the deadline of Feb. 28, 2020. Contact the Division of Neighborhood Services for Paint Vouchers. 1. If you are accepted into the program: Attend a Lead Safe Work Practice Class and receive instructions on Paint Vouchers. 2. Paint your house starting April 1,S2020 and before October 31, 2020. 3. When you have finished

painting your home, contact the City of Cleveland at (216) 664-2045 or (216) 664 -3385 to o b t a i n clearance inspection. *DO NOT PURCHASE PAINT—MUST USE PAINT VOUCHER!

Available to homeowners and tenants (no money comes out of your pocket). City of Cleveland, C o m m u n i t y D e v e l o p m e n t Attention: Home Maintenance Programs Manager 601 Lakeside Avenue Room 302 Cleveland, Ohio 44114

People who live in Ohio could miss out on a lot if everyone is not counted in the Census. Ohio could lose out on the political representation it deserves. And, people and communities could be denied money that they need for schools, community health care, jobs, and transportation. In 2016, Ohio received more than $33 billion from federal spending programs guided by data derived from the 2010 Census. Ohio can’t afford to miss out! Every 10 years, the United States conducts a “Decennial Census.” The goal of the Census is to count every person who lives in the country where they live. This includes people of all ages and citizenship statuses. The Census is mandated in the Constitution and it is required by l a w t h a t y o u r e s p o n d . Traditionally, every household would get a form in the mail that is filled out with information about everyone who lives in the house. You then send the form back. If people do not fill out and submit the Census, then people called “Enumerators” will come to your home and ask for the information directly. The 2020 Census will be asking people to fill out the information either on a form they receive in the mail or via an online, internet form. HOW IS CENSUS DATA USED? Census data is used to help the Federal government dec ide where money should go. Over $600 billion per year is distributed to communities across the United States based on Census data. This funding includes money for infrastructure and roads, health care, schools, and more. The more accurate the Census count is in your community, the more likely your community is to get the resources that it needs and deserves to serve community members. Additionally, local government and non-government groups also use Census data to determine where to provide services like bus routes, how to design school d i s t r i c t s , w h e r e t o b u i l d businesses, and how to prepare for emergencies. Census data is also used to work on Civil Rights issues including determining if states are violating the Civil R i g h t s A c t i n h o u s i n g , employment , o r educat ion . Enforcement of the Voting Rights

Ohio Census Could Eliminate Billions and Resources! City Of Cleveland/Economic Development

Act also heavily relies on the Census. information that is gathered in Census data is also a n i m p o r t a n t p a r t o f r e a p p o r t i o n m e n t a n d redistricting. Reapportionment happens following the Census and is the process that decides how many seats a state has in the House of Representatives. If the population of a state raises or lowers dramatically, your state could receive more or less representation in the House as a result. Redistricting is the process of dividing up a state into districts based on how many seats the state has. Districts are also drawn using Census data for state legislative bodies. Redistricting s h o u l d k e e p c o m m u n i t i e s together, which is not possible without an accurate Census that tells us where people are. WHAT DO THEY ASK ON THE CENSUS? The Census Bureau spends years testing what questions to ask on the Census, and how to ask them, to make sure they are obtaining the information they need and helping respondents know how to answer. The 2010 Census asked: 1. How many people were living or staying in this house, apartment, or mobile home on April 1, 2010? 2. Were there any additional people staying here April 1, 2010 that you did not include in Question 1? 3. Is this house, apartment, or mobile home: owned with mortgage, owned without mortgage, rented, occupied without rent? 4. What is your telephone number? 5. Please provide information for each person living here. Start with a person here who owns or rents this house, apartment, or mobile home. If the owner or renter lives somewhere else, start with any adult living here. This will be Person 1. What is Person 1’s name? 6 . What is Person 1’s sex? 7. What is Person 1’s age and Date of Birth? 8. Is Person 1 of Hispanic, Latino or Spanish origin? 9. What is Person 1’s race? 10. Does Person 1 sometimes live or stay somewhere else? The 2020 Census is something commu n i t ies h a ve to ta ke responsibility for ourselves to make sure Ohio gets the slice of the pie that it deserves. The most valuable messenger for the Census is the person you see every day—the person on your bus, the person who does your hair. You care about roads? You should care about the Census. You care about crime victims? You shou ld care about the Census.

Millions of retirees have to get by without any significant amount of savings, and for them, Social Security is just about the only reliable source of income they'll see month in and month out. One of the biggest advantages of Social Security benefits is that they have built-in adjustments for inflation, as the amount that the federal government pays out typically goes up each year in January. Because of inflation and wage increases, the average benef i t fo r Soc ia l Secur i t y recipients typically goes up over time. That's largely due to the way that the benefit formula calculates how much each person will receive, based on their work history and length of career. Some years, the average goes up

How Much Is Social Security Going Up in

2020? Dan Caplinger/Madison.com

only by a small amount, while other years feature big boosts. Over the past eight years, annual increases have ranged from just $13 in 2016 to $57 in 2019. 2020's increase of $42 per month amounts to a 2.9% increase. It stems from a 1.6% cost of living adjustment for benefits at the beginning of 2020, with the rest coming from the rise in average earnings compared to what previous years' cohorts received. With monthly premiums for m e d i c a l i n s u r a n c e u n d e r Medicare's Part B coverage going up more than $9 a month in 2020, the net amount a typical Social Security recipient would get will only go up by $33 per month on a net basis.


Community

4 January 2020 www.ward7observer.com

Volume 2 - Issue 1 January 2020



Health


Happy New Year Resolution Margaret Adams

One of the traditions that come to my mind is the New Year’s resolutions that people make at the start of the year. Some of the most common resolutions are losing weight, eating healthier, exercising or going to the gym, spending less, saving more and paying off debt, to name a few of the more popular ones. Since this happens every year, I wanted to explore just what the word resolution means. A r e s o l u t i o n i s a f o r m a l expression of intention, a resolve or determination, a firmness of purpose. It sounds like you are pretty sure of yourself if you decide to make a New Year’s Resolution. But, as we all know, usually by February most of our resolutions go by the wayside and we may make excuses for why they cannot be fulfilled. Given its track record, I am a bit afraid to suggest we commit to a Resolution for our community,

they are given the best chance to become contributing human being This means being up to date on what is appropriate for children at each stage of their development. It may mean throwing away old beliefs that have not benefited our children. It means understanding what we need to do to make their education a positive experience. We may need to educate ourselves more in order to help educate our children. It means looking for ways to expose our children to as much of the world outside our own community as we can so that t h e y h a v e a m o r e g l o b a l understanding of the world, and so that they not just think in terms of what they see immediately around them, but of the future possibilities they can participate in beyond music and sports. Knowledge is what will help our future generations survive and move forward in this ever changing world that we live in. Let us resolve to show love for our community by how we treat it. As owners or renters we all should strive to take care of the property we live in. This helps to improve the economic value of our community. Let’s be mindful of how our community looks to us and to others passing through. This means seeing less of the trash people are leaving behind on our streets. Look for a waste receptacle or hold on to your trash until it can be properly disposed of. Leaving trash means you don’t respect your community and neither will others. Let’s resolve to use the power of our votes to make this community, city, state and country a better place for all. Most of all let’s just have a wonderful year and show love and respect for each other.

but I have faith in us as a community. I would like for the community to resolve to become healthier this year. This means being more aware of what keeps us healthy such as eating more fruits and vegetables and less fast and processed food. It means eating smaller portions and definitely decreasing the sugary drinks. It means increasing our activity levels, by any means necessary (another way of saying pick what you like to do to stay active). It means visiting your healthcare provider for regular care or seeking mental health care when feeling overwhelmed. Let’s become a community that resolves to do its best to support our children. Our children are our future and our legacy. We need to do everything possible to make sure that they arrive into the world healthy and once they arrive, we need to make sure that

Clear Your Mind Desiree James, LISW

We are in the midst of the holiday season. Endless store commercials, Christmas songs, shopping, and all the fuss. After the dust settles, before the end of the New Year, we begin to think about clearing the clutter and cleaning our homes. I don’t believe the old folks were just superstitious when they said if you go into the New Year with an unclean house and clutter that is how the rest of the year will be. There is something about cleanliness and order, especially when it relates to our mind clutter. Mind clutter is useless, worn out thought patterns, bad habits, unproductive ideas, people, and relationships. We seem to hold o n t o b a d r e l a t i o n s h i p s , unresolved issues from our c h i l d h o o d a n d p a s t , d r u g addiction that imprisons, and painful events like they are 24k gold nuggets. Sadly, some of us will go to our graves with this garbage, still angry, still mad, and still blaming someone for something that happened last month, last decade, and even the last century. Ask yourself what is it that I need to release so I can move on, enjoy life fully, so that at the end of 2020 I can say I had a good year? Only you know what you need to release. Sometimes the main person we need to release from mental bondage is ourselves. Take a good hard look in the m i r r o r a n d s a y I h a v e experienced some good things and maybe some not so good things. Maybe I have experienced some terrible things, or I may not have made the best decisions in life thus far. It’s okay. It is a part of my life, but it is not my entire life. I’m ready to find permanent joy and peace. What a way to start and fill 2020.

Tax Abatement - The Good and the Bad Ron Calhoun

Tax Abatement is the temporary el imination of 100% of the increase in real estate property tax that results from certain eligible improvements on eligible residential/housing projects ( R e m o d e l i n g o r N e w Construction). It is available to stimulate investment in new development or redevelopment of residential housing in the City of Cleveland. The length or term of abatement is 15 years at 100% of the dollar amount by which the eligible new construction or remodeling activities increased the assessed market value of the property. Tax Abatement is available to both homeowners and developers. Since the 1980s, Tax Abatement has helped springboard a residential building boom in neighborhoods that, like the city as a whole, were losing residents. According to research, there were 3,216 single-family and nearly 250 multifamily properties given tax abatements in the city of Cleveland from 2004 to 2018. I n 2 0 18 a lo n e t h e c i t y o f Cleveland and the Cleveland

Metropolitan School District lost out on nearly $43 million in u n c o l l e c t e d t a x e s d u e t o abatements. In total, Cuyahoga County and all Cuyahoga County schools relinquished nearly $81 million. If you combine all cities, schools, l ibraries and other county entit ies, abatements account for more than $107 million in forgone tax revenue. Using median home sale prices and median household income changes over 15 years, a third (35%) of the city has experienced a p r e c i p i t o u s i n c r e a s e i n appraised house value in relation to income, exerting pressure on people who live in the communities where Tax Abatements were issued. Affectively hurting lower income famil ies on the Easts ide in particular longtime residents because of the increase in property taxes. Property taxes are also used to rep lace and repa ir st reets , sidewalks, and curbs. Some Cities, offer a Longtime Owner Occupants Program, or LOOP, property owners who experience an increase in value of

more than 50% between one valuation and the next would see their tax payment "locked in" at that level. The tax payment for that homeowner could then rise again only if property tax rates are raised, not if the property valuation increases. Some States have adopted a Tax Freeze for retired and long time home owners to relieve s o m e o f t h e b u r d e n o f gentrification. People are afraid they wont be able to afford their homes because of the higher property taxes. T a x a b a t e m e n t c o u l d b e determined by income or cost of the construction project. Who says tax abatement has to be 15 years? Some developers get 20 and 30 years of tax abatement. Shorten the time length to 5 or 8 years of abatement? Tax abatement could be on a sliding scale for a set period of time, the abatement decreases yearly. That would soften the tax bill “sticker shock” af ter the f ina l y ear o f tax abatement. The city has selected three c o n s u l t i n g e x p e r t s t o e v a l u a t e C l e v e l a n d ' s t a x abatement and development

inc en t i ves po l ic ies a nd to recommend possible changes to the system by year’s end. The se lec t ion o f Re in vestment Fund, PFM Group Consulting and the Greater Ohio Policy Center, was recently announced in September. They will work with Leverage Development and Neighborhood Connections to do the review. Let’s see who wins, the new residents, the developers, or the long time residents.



Community

January 2020 www.ward7observer.com 6

7201 Wade Park Avenue

Cleveland OH 44103

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The Cleveland Chain Reaction partners have delivered on their promise to bring major investment t o t h e c i t y ’ s C o l l i n w o o d neighborhood, which was selected for the third season of this neighborhood-based economic d e v e l o p m e n t p r o j e c t . Collinwood was an ideal location for Chain Reaction, as it has two very unique and active commercial corridors, E. 185th Street and Waterloo Road, both flanked by vibrant residential areas. This project has successfully introduced new companies and seeded the growth and expansion of existing companies in a city neighborhood full of amenities. The Cleveland Chain Reaction partners made the announcement at Gatewood Work/Share, a neighborhood-based co-working collaborative on East 185th Street. Investments total ing nearly $300,000 go to the following Chain Reaction finalists: The Cleveland Brewery- craft brewery producing a large variety of beverages including, wheat, Saisons, Triple IPAs, and Barrel Aged beers. Consult 2 Code, LLC- a healthcare consulting company offering medical coding and billing services. The Link Ltd.- a multi-disciplinary approach to healthcare, including Primary care, Chiropractic care, Physical Therapy, Massage Therapy, Yoga, Personal Training, and Health/Life Coaching services.

Chain Reaction Invests Nearly $300,000 in 6 Businesses Locating to Collinwood Neighborhood City Of Cleveland

Maeve's All Natural- a plant based skin and body care line founded on the ideas of whole b o d y p r e v e n t a t i v e c a r e , a r o m a t h e r a p y a n d h e r b a l medicine. Six Shooter Coffee- a small-batch, consciously roasted coffee roaster and café. Sweet Bean- a small batch artisan chocolate company. They are a lso the f i r s t bean to bar chocolatier in Northeast Ohio. Councilman Mike Polensek was at the award announcement. “This is a great shot in the arm for the n e i g h b o r h o o d . W i t h E . 185th Street soon getting a new resurfacing, the businesses along this important corridor should see other investments as wel l , including spreading out to nearby Waterloo,” Councilman Polensek said. Councilman Anthony Hairston praised the Cleveland Chain Reaction organization and said, "this will both bring good things to the neighborhood and spur other growth." While inspired by Cleveland H u s t l e s , C l e v e l a n d C h a i n Reaction is an independent effort with some of the same Clevelanders involved to support t h e c o n t i n u e d e c o n o m i c development opportunity that Hustles sparked. Previous years winners are Slavic Village and Old Brooklyn. Learn more about Cleveland Chain Reaction at : www.clevelandchainreaction.org.

$14 Million E. 105th Street Rehabilitation Project to Begin in January City Of Cleveland

The f irst phase of a major renovation of East 105th Street is scheduled to break ground in January. The $14 million project will see a complete rebuilding of a 2.5-mile stretch of East 105th from East Boulevard to Interstate 90 near the Bratenahl border. The work includes replacing water mains, repair ing curbs and s i d e w a l k s , i n s t a l l i n g n e w d r a i n a g e a n d a c o m p l e t e resurfacing with asphalt. There will also be new LED street lighting. “This is a project long overdue,” said Councilman Conwell. “Parts

of East 105th are dangerous to drive on. But that will soon end. Residents and businesses in this area of Ward 9 will finally be getting some relief. “Furthermore, I believe this newly restored street – a major artery in our community – will foster economic development. Safe and sound infrastructure is essential for development.” Recently Councilmen Conwell announced the $9.7 million dollar HUD grant for Glenville to reduce lead hazard. Beginning in March, 2021, owners of rental units constructed before 1978 must certify to the city that their units are lead -safe. A lso several businesses around the 105th street development were given thousands of dollars to upgrade their facilities. The plans were laid out to residents recently at The Doan Apartments in order for the project manager and contractor to get feedback.

90th Street Apartments renderings submitted to Cleveland Planning Commission

An emergency Ordinance No. 1 4 3 9 - 2 0 1 9 s p o n s o r e d b y Councilman Griffin, Brancatelli and Kelley (by departmental request) was passed during the city council meeting on Monday even ing December 9 ,2019. Dep a r t m en t o f Co mmu n i ty De v e lo p m e n t en t e r ed in t o agreements with The Inspirion Group, Ltd., or its designee, (“Inspirion”), providing for the exchange of three city owned p a r c e l s o f r ea l p r o p e r t i e s necessary for the development of a mixed-use project at East 90th Street and Chester Avenue The Inspirion Group, LTD. is a different kind of real estate business. Inspired by the growth a n d exc i t em en t in t o d a y ’ s marketplace, they str ive to uncover the unique and often o v e r - l o o k e d r e a l e s t a t e opportunities others may ignore. With over 25 years of collective ex p er i e n c e in t h e G r e a t e r Cleveland area, they are focused on expanding their portfolio of commercial, multi-family and retail properties by applying fundamental principles, sound analysis and a little inspiration, to create surprising and successful

City Council Approves 90th Street Apartments New Construction Land Sale and Transfer

outcomes. Phase I is a total of 136 units, 72 (1 Bd Units) 615 sq. ft. ea. 20 (2 Bd Units) 849 sq. ft. ea. 29 (Studio Units) 400 sq. ft. ea. 8 (Studio+ Units) 521 sq. ft ea. 8 (Townhome) 1243 sq. ft. ea. Phase 2/3 is a total of 136 u n i t s e a c h t o f o l l o w w i t h approximately the same floor space. Phase 4 is a total of 18 units built parallel to Chester Ave. on 90th Street . 10 (1 Bd Units) 631 sq. ft. ea. 8 (Studio Units) 400 sq. ft. ea. At completion of all phases, a total of 392 units. T h e a r c h i t e c t o n t h e development, LDA Architects, (previously Lowenstein Durante Architects,) is an award-winning architectural firm founded in 1995. LDA is Northeast Ohio’s em er g in g l ea d er i n u r b a n redevelopment, mult ifamily residential, adaptive reuse, and the renovation, rehabilitation and p r e s e r v a t i o n o f h i s t o r i c structures. LDA works from the belief that people respond positively to well-designed, beautiful environments.



Entertainment

January 2020 www.ward7observer.com

Farewell to Tom Joyner for a Job Well Done! Carla Calhoun

On Friday, December 13, 2019 Tom Joyner retired after 25 years, and signs off from The Tom Joyner Morning show. T o m J o y n e r w a s b o r n i n T u s k e g e e , A l a b a m a o n November 23, 1949. Tom came from an educated family and his grandfather was one of only 3,000 black physicians in the United States. Both of Tom’s parents, he and his brother graduated from historically black colleges (HBCU). Tom is member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity. He joined a band after college, “The Commodores” which included his college friend, the famous Lionel Richie. At that time the band was not making much money and his parents encouraged him to earn a living in another way. Tom began working at a college radio station and continued his love for radio by working at numerous radio stations across the country. 25 years ago, Tom had a vision to start a nationally syndicated Urban radio show. The “Tom Joyner Morning Show” educated, in f o r m ed , empo wered a nd entertained listeners. African Americans and other cultures awakened l i s ten ing to the morning show, with celebrity guest hosts from various genres: actors, comedians, politicians,

musical guests and more. Tom Joyner also is the founder of Reach Media Inc. , Black American Web .com and the Tom Joyner Foundation. Mr. Joyner hosts an annual fundraiser “Party with a Purpose” on the “Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage." This event is truly fantastic, featuring non-stop parties, concerts, Sunday church service with famous gospel s i n g e r s , m i d n i g h t f e a s t s , Fantastic Theme nights which are costume parties, fellowshipping and networking opportunities. The participants include musical guests , comedians , actors , athletes and radio listeners. This event allows everyday people to hobnob with celebrities. The Fantastic Voyage 2020 is scheduled to set sail March 28 and return April 5, 2020. The Cruise line is The Carnival Cruise ‘Magic”. Guests will depart from Ft. Lauderdale Florida to ports of call: beautiful tropical islands of St Maarten, St Kitts and San Juan. The voyage will be magical and possibly Tom Joyner’s last trip. Tom Joyner, age 70, will focus his attention in retirement to the Tom Joyner Foundation which works to provide scholarships for students attending historically black colleges and universities. Tom Joyner, an American icon will be truly missed. His show was a breath of fresh air for your early morning drive to school and work. You laughed, you cried, but m o s t o f a l l y o u p r o u d l y appreciated the gift that Tom provided every morning to the black community and beyond.

Art Imitates Life Melvin Twigg Mason

[Alert: movie spoilers included below.] One of the latest film releases from Universal Studios is “Queen and Slim,” the heart-wrenching s to ry o f a b lack coup le in Cleveland who get pulled over for a minor traffic violation. A dispute arises with the Caucasian police officer, causing the driver to take deadly action. The dispute occurs within the first few minutes of the film. After being pulled over, the passenger (Queen), a budding attorney, feels the need to question the officer’s motives and to express/assert their legal rights in this situation, much to the dismay of the driver, Slim, and against his otherwise cautionary behavior. B e c a u s e o f Q u e e n ’ s inter ject ions, the s i tuat ion e s c a l a t e s m o r e & m o r e , culminating in a lethal exchange of gunfire. The couple goes on the run, falling into other harrowing incidents all across the country before f inally meeting their demise. This fictional story reminded me of a true story that was in the headlines a few years ago. Another African-American couple was involved in a high-speed

police chase that ended up in a f renzy of bul lets. You may remember when two Cleveland detectives allegedly saw a car speeding and heard what they thought was a gunshot near the Justice Center downtown. Upon pursuit of the vehicle, which refused to stop, they were joined in the chase by many other police cars from several neighboring jurisdictions. Once the car did decide to stop, off icers opened f ire on the vehicle with a barrage of bullets, and as you can imagine, this left the driver and passenger dead. In the movie and in real life, no one seemed to question the participants unwillingness to submit to the legal process. Why didn’t either couple follow the officer’s commands/sirens? In both cases, we might not have had a tragedy to mourn had they simply followed instructions and/or pulled over. We should be outraged (and rightly so) by any discriminatory practices found within our judicial system and the ridiculous torrent of gunfire leveled at our communities. There is little justification for such deadly force. But again, this p o s s i b l y w o u l d n ’ t b e a conversation if they had followed orders and just — stopped — running. But what do you think?

A Daughter Ode

Laura McCarroll (reprint)

My mother’s eyes sparkled like

newly arrived crystal-ware.

And she produced silver from the

roots of her shinning hair.

During the dusk of her departure,

closing a chapter on her pain.

A grieving daughter cries, release

my clamped heart, so that I may

breathe again! (Corrections reprint)

Ring in the Lunar New Year in AsiaTown! Karis Tzeng

The Lunar New Year celebration is the most important holiday and fest ival in most East Asian countries. Celebrations for the Lunar New Year are filled with t r a d i t i o n s a n d m ea n in g f u l symbols to usher in good luck and prosperity. The Lunar New Year festival is traditionally celebrated for 16 days – from New Year’s Eve until the Lantern Festival, which is the 15th day of the first lunar month. This year, Lunar New Year is on January, 25, 2020, and the Lantern Festival is on February 8, 2020. In Chinese traditions, new year preparations begin several days leading up to

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Asia Plaza on Saturday, January 25th. The festivities kick off with the Kwan Family Lion Dance at 11:00 a.m. starting at Li Wah Restaurant and moving through the various businesses in Asia Plaza. The lion symbolizes power and wisdom and is an important tradition to chase away evil spirits and bring prosperity and good luck for the upcoming year. Additional performances feature the Kwan Lion Dance at 11am and 7pm, the LingYun Rising Star Chinese Dancers, OCA Dragon Dance, Shojoji Japanese dancers, and more! Shop local at various vendor tables, and visit Asia Plaza gift shops and restaurants. This event is free and open to all. Kick off the Lunar New Year w i th the Kwan L ion Dance performance at Asian Town Center on E. 38th Street. Lunar New Year celebrations traditionally kick off with firecrackers and the lion dance to chase away evil spirits and bring good fortune for the upcoming year. The dragon dance by OCA-Greater Cleveland will follow as well.

New Year’s Day. Before the new year begins, families sweep their houses and cut their hair to send a w a y m is f o r t u n e . I f t h e se activities are done during the Lunar New Year festival, it can remove good luck f rom the house. On New Year’s Day, many traditions are observed include visiting elders, eating special meals, and setting off fireworks. Fireworks are considered to send away evil spirits and misfortune. Elders give out hong bao (red envelopes with lucky money) as a w a y t o sen d g o o d w ish es . Wearing red and hanging red lanterns are considered lucky and meant to bring prosperity. Many Lunar New Year celebrations w i l l b e h a p p e n i n g a r o u n d Northeast Ohio during the end of January and the beginning of February! There will be at least two f ree events . Saturday , January 25: Asia Plaza Lunar New Year Celebration, 2999 Payne Avenue, 10:00 a.m. til 7:00 p.m.

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For additional opportunities to celebrate around Northeast Ohio, including a free New Year’s Eve celebration at Case Western Re-serve University, visit https://ocagc.org/2020lunarnewyearcalendar/. Follow along on Insta-gram @asiatowncleveland for up-dates!



City

Ord. No. 1359-2019 By Council Members B. Jones, B r anc a t e l l i a nd Ke l ley ( b y d e p a r t m e n t a l r e q u e s t ) Author iz ing the Director of Economic Development to enter i n t o o n e o r m o r e g r a n t agreements with Eagle Family Foods Group, LLC and/or its designee, to provide economic deve lopment ass is tance to partially finance Project Sticky located at 1975 East 61st Street. Estimated Cost: $655,685 .


City Council December Highlights Staff Writer

Ord. No. 1446-2019 By Council Members Cleveland, Johnson, Brancatelli and Kelley (by depar tmenta l request ) Determining the method of making the public improvement of constructing a new Cleveland Police Division headquarters and related parking lot, storage facility, ordinance range and other similar types of structures; authorizing the Directors of Capital Projects or Public Safety to enter into one or more public im p r o vem en t c o n t r a c t s t o construct the improvement, to employ one or more professional consultants necessary for design and for related services to implement the improvement; authorizing the Directors of Capital Projects, Public Safety, Publ ic Works, or Economic Development, as appropriate, to apply for and accept any gifts or grants from any public or private entity, to enter into one or more agreements to implement the improvement; authorizing various written standard purchase and requirement contracts; and authorizing the Commissioner of Purchases and Supplies or the D i r e c t o r o f E c o n o m i c Development, as appropriate, to acquire or transfer rights or in t erest s in r ea l p roper ty . Estimated Cost: $54,884,527.

The Phoenix Building home of Hemingway Development’s offices.

Ord. No. 1376-2019 By Council Members Hairston, B r a n c a t e l l i a n d Ke l ley ( b y d e p a r t m e n t a l r e q u e s t ) Author iz ing the Di rector of Economic Development to enter into a Tax Increment Financing Agreement with Landmark at the Lake, LLC, or its designee, for d e v e l o p m e n t a n d c o s t s associated with new construction on vacant land at and/or adjacent to 5455 North Marginal Road for t h e S h o r e l i n e P h a s e I I Development Project; to provide for payments to the Cleveland Metropolitan School District; and to declare certain improvements to real property to be a public purpose.

Ord. No. 1507-2019 By Council Members Conwell, B r a n c a t e l l i a n d Ke l ley ( b y d e p a r t m e n t a l r e q u e s t ) Author iz ing the Di rector of Economic Development to enter into a grant agreement with GlenVillage, LLC, or its designee, t o p r o v i d e e c o n o m i c deve lopment ass is tance to assist with general operating expenses of the GlenVil lage incubator at Glenville Circle North. Estimated Cost: $375,000.

Ord. No. 1508-2019 By Council Members Griffin, B r anc a t e l l i a nd Ke l ley ( b y d e p a r t m e n t a l r e q u e s t ) Author iz ing the Director of Economic Development to enter into contract with First Interstate Properties LTD., or its designee, t o p r o v i d e e c o n o m i c deve lopment ass is tance to support the development of the 121 Larchmere Project and other associated costs necessary to

redevelop the property. Estimated Cost: $430,000.

The Corner at E 121st St and Shaker Blvd. Cleveland, OH 44120

Ord. No. 1525-2019 By Council Members Johnson, B r a nc a t e l l i an d Ke l ley ( b y d e p a r t m e n t a l r e q u e s t ) Authorizing the Director of Capital Projects to employ one or more profess ional consultants to provide strategic services relating to the planning and execution of the off highway vehicle and bicycle motocross park project, and other related services; and authorizing the director to apply for and accept gifts and/or grants from any public or private entity to implement the project. Estimated Cost: $155,775.

Ord. No. 1520-2019 By Council Members Brancatelli and Kelley (by departmental request) Authorizing the Director of Economic Development to enter into a grant agreement with the Spirit of Cleveland, Inc., or its designee, to provide economic deve lopment ass is tance to part ia l ly sponsor the 2019 Blockland Solutions Conference b e i n g h e l d i n t h e C i t y o f C l e v e l a n d . E s t i m a t e d Cost: $50,000.

Ord. No. 1532-2019 By Council Members Kel ley, Johnson and Brancatell i (by departmental request) Authorizing the Director of the Mayor’s Office of Capital Projects to enter into a maintenance, inspection, and repair agreement with, and to issue an encroachment permit to, Quintus Landlord LLC and May Garage Property LLC jointly to encroach into the public right-of-way of Ontario Street with an overhead bridge and two precast connecting portals. There is no legal objection to the passage of this legislation if amended.

Ord. No. 1448-2019 By Council Members Keane and Kelley (by departmental request) Determining the method of making the public improvement of performing the Suburban Water Main Renewal Program, years 2020 through 2024, i n c l u d i n g r e p l a c i n g o r rehabilitating water mains and their related apparatus in various suburban communities; and authorizing the Director of Public Utilities to enter into one or more public improvement contracts to construct the improvement. Estimated Cost: $2,001,865.

Ord. No. 1513-2019 By Counc i l Member Ke l ley Exempting retail establishments in the City of Cleveland from Cuyahoga County’s Disposable Bag Ban, Chapter 1304 of the Cuyahoga County Code, and establishing a working group to study and recommend to this Council the most effective way to eliminate retail use of disposable bags by January 1, 2021.

LandSale and Transfer: Ord. No. 2076-76 8807 Wade Park Ave Kenmore Commons Limited Partnership Ord. No. 1250-2019 6600 Euclid Ave Midtown Cleveland, Inc. $214,285 per acre, which for the 1.82 acres of the Property shall not exceed a total price of $390,000.00. Ord. No. 1439-2019 East 90th St. and Chester Ave. The Inspirion Group Ltd. transfer to the City by The Inspirion Group Ltd. of Permanent Parcels Nos. 119-08-043 and 119-08-044, located on East 90th Street and having an appraised value of $8,486.00, plus a cash payment to the City of $4,514.00, in exchange for the City's transfer to The Inspirion Group Ltd. or its d e s i g n e e o f C i t y - o w n e d Permanent Parcels Nos. 119-08-020, 119-08-039 and 119-08-040, also located on East 90th Street and having an appraised value of $13,000.00, for the development of a mixed-use project.

The Rendering of New Cleveland Police Headquarters on 73rd off Woodland Blvd.

The Shoreline Phase II Development Project on 55th N. Marginal Rd.

The Glenville Circle North on 105th and Ashbury Blvd.

The off highway vehicle and bicycle motocross park project.

A second May Co./Jacks Casino Garage Bridge on the way.

History will have to record that the greatest tragedy of ...

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