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Join Us In The New Community Paper For The Campus District!

Help Celebrate This Wonderful Neighborhood With Us, Your Neighbors

Proud Member Of The Observer Media Family Of Community Owned And Written Newspapers & Websites Volume 1, Issue 2, September 2011

Campus District Raises Their Voices

by Rockette Richardson Alex Shorter, along with his fellow Tri-C student and friend TyKeisha Tucker, discovered that they both really cared about Cleveland’s young people. And they both wanted to make a positive difference, especially for those young people who live and go to school in the neighborhood surrounding Cuyahoga Community College’s Metro Campus.

With those good intentions plus the positive support of mentors like Dr. Michael Schoop from Tri-C’s Metro Campus and Case Western’s Terry Pim, Alex and Ty launched Project Edu-Tainment, a ten-week summer enrichment program for seventh, eighth and ninth graders.

Using the arts and entertainment as the medium, the program focuses on citizen-

This Is Your Paper, You Write It

by Betsy Voinovich Do you have ideas about what you’d like to have happen in this neighborhood? Do you have a favorite place to go or a favorite activity that you’d like to share with fellow residents? Write it up for the Campus District Observer.

This is your newspaper. Use it to do what you want to have done. Get your word out. Propose your idea.

Every story you see in this paper was written by one of your neighbors, who either lives, works, studies or creates in the Campus District, and decided that they would submit a story to the paper.

Do you have an idea for an article? Would you like to describe your business, start an advice column to share your wisdom, or comic strip? Have you taken pictures of this beautiful neighborhood?

Get going! Write it up, and send it in.

Here’s how: go to www.campusdistrictobserver.com, click on Member Center in the left hand window, sign in, and start writing.

ship, entrepreneurship and creativity. The majority of this summer’s participants are students at nearby Marion Sterling and live in CMHA’s Cedar Estates or the surrounding neighborhood.

As part of their summer activities, the students wrote a play, which they performed on Saturday, August 27th in at Tri C Metro in the Campus Center. The program, which included breakfast and lunch at Cleveland State University’s Student Center, came to a close

Photo by Archangel, Breaunte Davis

Project Edu-tainment - An introduction

Leader of the Archangels, Alex Shorter. with the peformance of the say about what they liked best play. See inside articles to read about the experience and what about what participants had to they learned.

Cleveland Boy Scouts Are Growing

by James Dillon The Cleveland Council of the Boy Scouts of America is serving over 5000 youth in Scouting and in School Learning for Life programs. This is an increase of over 1000 youths in the past year. The scouts are working with CMHA- 6 program sites, CMSD- 51 program sites, churches and other organizations- 36 program sites.

Cub Scouts is for boys

grades 1 to 5. Boy Scouts is for boys who have completed the 5th grade to 18 years of age.

Venturing is for young men and ladies age 14 to 20.

Youth join scouting for the camping, hiking, and racing pinewood derby cars but along the journey they are learning respect, responsibility, community pride, and other values.

Our youth in Cleveland want to be in the Scouts, if

you desire more information, please contact Jim Dillon at james.dillon@scouting.org.

Scouts learn archery skills.

Councilwoman Cleveland Welcomes The Campus District Observer

by Councilwoman Phyllis Cleveland

Congresswoman Fudge greeted some of the employers, which included a wide range of private companies, public and non profit agencies that are currently hiring or recruiting.

Many To Thank For Congresswoman Fudge’s Successful Job Fair At CSU

by Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge, 11th District of Ohio When I arrived at Cleveland State University on August 8th and saw thousands of people patiently awaiting entry to the job fair I hosted, I knew I had made the right decision to hold the event. The sight was both encouraging and deeply moving. How did we reach a point where so many of our friends, neighbors and fam-

ily are desperately searching for work or the opportunity to move from part-time employment to a full time job?

Not knowing what to expect, my office initially projected attracting 1,000 jobs. I’m happy to say the 110 employers who participated offered more than 2,000 jobs. While Congress remains gridlocked, spurred by the intransigence of House leadership and some

continued on page 2

As the Councilperson for Ward 5, I’m very excited to welcome the Campus District Observer to this neighborhood.

My ward, which spans Central, Broadway and Union Miles, includes the southern portion of the Campus District, with its major medical and educational campuses (St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Cuyahoga Community College and Cleveland State University), as well as residents living in Cedar Estates and Lupica Towers.

This community newspaper is a wonderful way to forge closer connections between a diverse group of stakeholders (residents, students, employees, businesses and large institutions). The Campus District Observer encourages us to learn more about our neighbors. It gives us another venue in which to communicate with each other about our neigh-

Councilwoman Phyllis Cleveland, representing Ward 5. borhood’s priorities, successes, opportunities and challenges.

One of the great things about the Observer is its accessibility. If you do not have a personal computer or Internet access, you can get a print copy of the newspaper in area libraries, stores and other public gathering places. If you prefer to get your news online, there’s a convenient online version. Either way,

the Observer makes it easy to be an informed and engaged citizen. For our community’s small businesses, the newspaper provides an opportunity not only to advertise products and services to a customer base that is near your business, but a chance for businesses to tell their own stories about what they do, and why they’re here.

I have been fortunate to serve as the Councilperson for Ward 5 since 2006. My vision throughout my tenure has been to build a strong community with clean, safe and affordable neighborhoods. One of the ways of accomplishing this is by creating meaningful educational opportunities and career pathways for young people and adults. I believe the Campus District newspaper can be a valuable tool for sharing our progress and focusing our efforts, as the community works together to turn that vision into reality.

Page 2

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

September, 2011

CDO DIALOGUE Many To Thank For Congresswoman Fudge’s Successful Job Fair At CSU continued from page 1

members to advance any jobs legislation, I decided to take action. The Congressional Black Caucus decided to sponsor a “For the People” jobs initiative and I let it be known that my district needs this opportunity and I would gladly lead as host of the first in a series of job fairs. As long as the need is so great, job creation is and will be one of my top priorities.

We are still gathering hard numbers and awaiting the return of surveys, but I can tell you the initial feedback has been mostly positive. Some employers were very pleased with the caliber of the applicants. Several small businesses commented about how grateful they were to have the opportunity to participate without paying fees of $600 or more that are required at other job fairs. Employer space at my job fair was free. The Cleveland resident who faced foreclosure and excitedly called announcing she had been hired by one of the companies at the job fair was one of the calls my office received. This

project was about hope, opportunity, and connecting people who are eager to work with employers who are ready to hire. There were lessons learned.

As an example, a number of companies and public agencies only accepted applications on-line. This underscores the need to ensure Internet access and know-how to all segments of our population. Our turnout was so large, we could have used even more space.

I am very grateful to the many partners who contributed to the event’s success, from the Job Corps students who served as volunteers to Cleveland State University whose generous donation of their facilities made an event of this magnitude possible. This event cannot by itself solve our persistently high unemployment rate but it proved to be a much needed step in the right direction.

I stand ready to keep the spotlight on job creation and to foster a climate for our businesses to grow. I’m guided by an unshakeable belief that when our community pulls together, we can improve the quality of life for all of its members.

East Tech “Back To School” Event Is Great Success

More than 4,000 job seekers attended the August 8th Job Fair, held in the new Cleveland State University Student Center.

Lee Fisher Keynotes Campus District Annual Meeting bu Rockette Richardson The Campus District’s Annual Meeting is scheduled for Friday morning, September 23 from 7:30 a.m. to 9. in the community meeting room at the Cleveland Plain Dealer, located at 1801 Superior. Lee Fisher, president and CEO of CEOs for Cities, is the keynote speaker. CEOs for Cities works through a network of partners to develop great cities that excel in the areas most critical to urban success: talent, connections, innovation and

distinctiveness.

In addition, the meeting will include the first annual “Campy” awards, presented to the outstanding resident and business owner in the District, as well as a review of the past year’s accomplishments and a preview of planned initiatives for the upcoming year. For more information and to reserve a seat, contact the Campus District office at 216 344 9200.

Rockette Richardson is Executive Director of the Campus District.

Your Independent Source for Community News & Opinion Published monthly with a current circulation of 10,000+ copies. The paper is made available free of charge and can be found at business locations within the City of Cleveland and on our website.

The views and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher and staff. Copyright 2011 • The Campus District Observer, Inc. All rights reserved.

Any reproduction is forbidden without written permission.

More than 70 boys got their hair cut at the Back to School event at East Technical High School Friday Aug. 19. Boys and girls getting ready for school got their hair cut or braided at the event.

Payne Is A Drain

by Matthew Skitzki Every day for two years, I walked from my residence in the Tower Press Building to classes at CSU and back.

Every time I stroll across Payne Avenue, with rarely a car in sight, I wonder, could this space be put to better use?

With major thoroughfares (Chester and Superior) immediately to the north and south, and East numbered streets every block, Payne Avenue between East 14th and the Innerbelt has become redundant.

Every time I stroll across Payne, hardly a car in sight even at rush hour, I wonder, why does a city of 400,000 maintain roads for 1,000,000? There is no shortage of pavement Downtown, while green space and shovel-ready property are precious.

Close Payne from East 14th to the

Innerbelt. Emergency vehicles from the police station can still access Superior and Chester from East 19th and East 21st. Any business frontage on that section of Payne also can access the east numbered streets.

The space that would result in a closure of that section of Payne would become sorely needed green space for Downtown residents, or new construction alongside the expansion of Cleveland State. It would also save the city money in road maintenance and snow clearance.

Less roads! More good stuff!

That’s what I wonder every time I cross Payne. You?

Matthew Skitzki is the Owner/ pianist with Professional Piano, live piano music for special events, accompanying, and lessons. www. matthewskitzki.com.

The mission of the Campus District Observer is to attract, articulate, and amplify civic intelligence and community good will in this community and beyond.

Become an Observer!

As a product of citizen journalism, The Campus District Observer is looking for people, to get involved in the paper and the city. We are looking for volunteer writers, photographers, designers, and illustraters to help with the production of the paper. It does not matter if you are a professional or amateur, our editorial staff will be glad to help you through the process.

Register to our website Member Center where you can submit stories, press releases, letters to the editor, photos. No need to register to post online calendar or classified ads.

Upcoming Submission Deadline September 23

Publish Date September 29

www.campusdistrictobserver.com – 216.712-7070 For Ads Call - 216.712-7070 • CampusDistrictObserverads@gmail.com The Campus District Observer is powered by:

Publisher Editor in Chief

Jim O’Bryan Betsy Voinovich

Advisory Board - Renee Evans, Rachel Wilson, Joan Mazzolini, April Miller,

Bernard Doyle, Jimeka Holloway, John Hagan, Jim O’Bryan, Karen Perkowski Webmasters - Jim DeVito Photography - Chelien Chesney, Breunte Davis , Dan Morgan, Jim O’Bryan, Fred Seals, Aaron Snyder Production - A Graphic Solution, Inc. Contributing Writers - Alonte’ Barnett, Kira Brooks, Tyanna Brown, Angelica Bussey, Dejanee Cammon, Mike Crews, Daeja Croskey, Breaunte Davis, James Dillon, Fred Dolan, Renee Evans, Emeka Ezepue, Bruce Freeman, Congresswoman Marcia Fudge, Sahra Harding, Keisha Jackson, Shanae Martin, Joan Mazzolini, Tevin McDowell, Amanie McGee, Dan Morgan, April Miller, Dan Moulthrop, Treshawn Newsome, Tom O’Brien, Monique Priah, Rockette Richardson, Fred Seals, Jazzmine Simmons, Matthew Skitzki, Kenya Spencer, Carolyn Swan, Evans Treshaun, Aero Twin, Kahlilah Worley, James Wyman

Join the Discussion at: www.campusdistrictobserver.com

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

September, 2011

Page 3

CAMPUS DISTRICT TREASURES

State Of The Arts In The Campus District

by Dan Morgan The Campus District is not only home to many artists’ studios and living spaces, there are also many businesses and arts organizations available to help artists flourish in the area. The creative infrastructure is really what sets the Campus District apart from the other arts districts in Northeast Ohio.

This article will focus on the environment that facilitates artists’ desire to live, create and share their passion.

In the 1990’s, Mayor Mike White’s administration and City Council passed legislation allowing artist live/ work space in a large portion of the Campus District. Since then organizations like Tower Press and ArtSpace Cleveland have been connecting artists with studio space that is not only affordable but also livable, with all the needed amenities. Gone are the days when artists had to sleep on pull out beds, against the law. Visit www.TowerPress.com to learn about some great living spaces in the Campus district.

The Bloch Building at 2310 Superior Ave is one of the new properties available through Tower Press Development.

ArtSpace Cleveland helps artists find spaces to live and work. The group meets regularly with artists, nonprofit organizations, and building owners.

Contact Harriet for more information, gouldloft@sbcglobal.net.

Artists need tools in order to create fine art. Zygote Press is a great member-driven, shared workspace for printmakers. Many area artists use the space to learn, create and bond with other artists with similar challenges and goals. Mike Gill has been with Zygote since 2005 following the advice of Douglas Max Utter. “Zygote

Derek Hess, “Flood Damage” detail. is invaluable to printmakers for two reasons, shared equipment, and shared ideas and information. Working in a place like Zygote Press offers a ready pool of brains to pick.” Contact Liz Maugans via www.ZygotePress.com for more information.

Possibly the most important aspect of art for many artists is selling their work. The income generated allows artists to pay for space, equipment and supplies as well as giving the artist the confidence to go on creating, knowing that they have an audience.

For self-promotion, Jakprints specializes in custom full-color offset printing, apparel printing and sticker production. Visit www.JakPrints.com for more information about there services.

Many artists need representation to allow them to continue the creative process, undisturbed by the stress involved with promoting and selling work. One of the finest galleries in the Midwest is located right in the Campus District. I first met William Busta in Little Italy almost 20 years ago. Busta has taken his time to find the right place to open and recently expand his gallery in Cleveland. William began representing Cleveland artist Derek Hess, also a Campus District artist/ resident, over 20 years ago.

Another great company located in the Tower Press Building, the Red Dot Project, represents over 100 artists that live and work in Northeast Ohio. Red Dot’s unique flat file storage

continued on page 4

Zygote Press.

Future Journal Entry, August 6, 2015:

Status Update Of Norma Herr Women’s Center Garden

by Carolyn Swan The garden across the street from the Norma Herr Women’s Center is absolutely beautiful! This season has

“12 Faces in Color” by Wally Kaplan

brought an abundance of food, not only for the women in transition at the Center but we also had plenty of extra food for the men’s shelter and the families of the employees. Most of the plants ended up being perennials, and they pretty much take care of themselves now, just like a natural forest. We also have a ton of food that is being grown vertically (an idea from one of the Cleveland State University students). Just about every square inch of this garden is being used to grow something beneficial and It’s hard to believe how much has changed in just a few years. I remember when this huge garden was nothing but an empty parking lot, across the street from the Center. It was completely overgrown with random weeds (some as tall as a person!), pushing their way up from the

“Nature’s Bounty” by Wally Kaplan. Wally chose these paintings to illustrate and celebrate Carolyn Swan’s piece. ground beneath the pavement and surrounded by a fence. The land was--and still is---owned by Cleveland State University, but it has been donated for use by the women’s center.

As I recall, a bunch of things happened simultaneously, in the right place at the right time. A couple of people

Join the Discussion at: www.campusdistrictobserver.com

had written articles for one of the local newspapers about food forests, gardening, and permaculture. Other folks started adding their opinions and ideas to the possibility of creating a food garden for the homeless shelters in the area; and others were writing about the con-

continued on page 4

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

Page 4

September, 2011

WELCOME TO THE CAMPUS DISTRICT Future Journal Entry, August 6, 2015:

Status Update Of Norma Herr Women’s Center Garden continued from page 3 ditions of food in our modern society as well as the treatment of those living in the homeless shelters. The funny thing was that most of the people weren’t aware of the others’ ideas at first. Over the long winter, people started talking to one another, the ideas came together, and before we knew it, an entire grassroots effort was under way.

I remember that one of the student groups at CSU had done some sort of sample study on the nutritional levels of the food intake of residents at the women’s shelter and found that many residents were malnourished (especially those with certain diet restrictions, whether it was diabetes or being vegetarian, vegan, etc.). It was part of a larger class project. More folks began writing articles for the local newspaper about creating more gardens and forest areas around the

city for the purpose of improving air quality and general happiness. Additionally, many horticulture and botany students were quick to jump on the idea of creating food to help feed the homeless shelter.

The psychology students had later joined with the guys in the science labs to run tests on soil contact with human skin and researching the results on the physical mind as well as emotional results. They are still running tests, but from what I hear, they’re excited so far.

There is definitely something that is physically measurable and beneficial when people are in contact with plants, soil, and nature in general. Not only does it increase happiness levels, but also people’s sense of personal worth and value. We feel like we’re doing something important---something to help the world and community around us.

Lots of people can feel the good

vibes in the air and feelings of love and kindness. The conversations are lighter, and people walk with a bit more of a spring in their step. Right from the beginning, we’ve held weekly prayers and meditation groups in the garden.

Some of us think that these groups had a beneficial effect on the quality of the soil (which was pretty bad when we first started digging). It’s so wonderful and amazing how much the soil improved even after the first year!

The garden has apples, pears, and peaches, and we also have a few nut trees, as well as a ton of berry bushes (now we can have berry jam along with our peanut butter!). There is also a small space for annuals. Each year we manage to grow more than the last year---we’re learning new techniques from our own personal experience, as well as getting advice from the CSU, Akron, and Kent students.

We’ve had a few reporters visit from the surrounding states: Pennsylvania and Michigan, who are writing articles on how well the garden is doing. People are amazed at the transformation---especially those who are visiting Cleveland again for the first time in several years. Song birds have moved in and there are plenty of spiders eating the flies and mosquitoes. I’m sure the new, small pond will attract toads singing in the evening soon, too! A conservation group---one of the big ones in the United States---is conducting a study on an endangered

The New Commons At Trinity Commons In case you’re wondering who the new tenants are in the storefront where 10,000 Villages used to be, it’s the Civic Commons.

You might have heard of us, but you wouldn’t be faulted if you haven’t. We’re only about a year old. The Civic Commons is sort of like a public utility for civic engagement. We’re creating new ways to bring communities together with conversation and emerging technology. In a way, we’re a kind of Facebook for stuff that matters to your community. Unlike Facebook, we also do a lot of actual work in the community.

Right now, we’re helping the city lead conversations about the future of the Flats neighborhood; we, along with many others, are helping Cuyahoga County government leaders figure out how to make government more transparent and more responsive to voters; and we’re helping CSU, CWRU, Oberlin and Kent State lead a year-long speaker series about Muslim and Middle Eastern Societies.

And every day, community members like you launch their own conversations about issues they care about, like support for minority business owners, the Global Cleveland initiative, bike safety, sustainability and transparency in government.

There’s a lot at the Civic Commons for you, and if you don’t see what you’re

looking for, you can create it!

Given our interest in the community and in fostering community conversation, we really feel like we’ve come home to Trinity Commons in the Campus District. We used to be downtown in the IMG building, which was nice, particularly because we had great neighbors (The Fund for Our Economic Future) and great rent (free!), but as I recently told Fresh Water Cleveland, we have long wanted to be accessible to the community, and to be a place where people can just drop by.

We don’t want to be hidden in an office building somewhere; we want people to feel like the Civic Commons is a place they recognize and own.

So, we invite you to check us out online at www.theciviccommons.com or on Euclid Avenue, just up from Cafe Ah-Roma. If you have stories of successful citizen-driven civic action, we’d love to hear about it. Or if you’re just getting started on a project to try to improve your corner of the world and you think a little online community dialogue might be able to help, get in touch. Or better yet, just get over to our site, sign up in a matter of seconds and start it.

Dan Moulthrop is Curator of Conversation at The Civic Commons, a project of the Fund for Our Economic Future and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

Copies Still Only 4½¢ each!

Located in the ❤ of the Campus District 2000 Euclid Avenue • (216) 621-6050

State Of The Arts In The Campus District

photo by Dan Morgan, Straightshooter

by Dan Moulthrop

bird that has made a nest in the garden.

The area is roped off and everyone just leaves that section of the garden alone for now. It’s a really pretty bird with an odd-looking nest.

I’m looking forward to this Friday evening. A small jazz band from the Cleveland Institute of Music is playing in the paved area beside the garden.

They’ve been here once before and the set up is the same. They’re playing off a donation basis. And it works! People are visiting the garden and donating freely, all night long, as the jazz band plays. Folks from all over Cleveland are drawn to the area, to see the garden and hear the music. People are getting ideas for their own yards as well, and many are getting rid of the lawns and growing food, instead.

Gotta run! Time to harvest some cucumbers for pickles for the women’s center!

Hello. My name is Carolyn. I have a growing gift to convey emotions and ideas through writing. My writing is mainly limited to my personal journals, which contain daily observations of the world around me combined with deeper insight into the meaning of life, who I am as a person, and who we are as human beings. I temporarily live in the women’s shelter on Payne Avenue, and that is where I saw the Campus District Observer newspaper.

Even though I am homeless in Cleveland (hopefully just temporarily), I still hope to contribute my talents to the surrounding community.

Recently expanded William Busta Gallery.

continued from page 3 system allows “on demand” availability of their stable of artists’ work. The space in the Tower Press Building also contains a great viewing wall, to show clients like Glidden House and CSU how the work will look framed and on the walls of their establishments.

Red Dot is also an integral player in the PNC Smart Home on University Circle. Visit Red Dot online at www.

RedDotProject.org.

There are countless other artists and organizations in the Campus District to explore, one great way to do it is with the help of the annual SPARX

Join the Discussion at: www.campusdistrictobserver.com

City Hop, September 10, all day long, during which Lolly the Trolly will make several stops in the Campus District as well as many other trendy Cleveland neighborhoods. Visit www.

DowntownCleveland A lliance.com for more information about this great Cleveland annual.

Finally, it’s not too early to get ready for the 24th Annual Holiday Art Show, put together by some ambitious artists in the ArtCaft Building on Superior Ave at E 25th, led by Mark Yasenchack. Contact Mark at mark. yasenchack@yahoo.com for details about this year’s show.

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

September, 2011

Page 5

CAMPUS DISTRICT LIFE

“We Must Be The Change We Wish To See”

by Fred Seals and Delores Gray We must be the change we wish to see in the world. --Mahatma Gandhi Promise: to declare solemnly that one will follow a particular course of action: Tell it like it is.

The Reverend Jesse Jackson almost never gets upstaged and I had never seen the Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson cry in public until last month. Jackson invited Bill Cosby to the annual Rainbow /PUSH conference for a conversation about the controversial remarks the entertainer offered on May 17 at an NAACP dinner in Washington, D.C. when America’s Jell-O Man shook things up by arguing that African Americans were betraying the legacy of civil rights victories. Cosby said ‘the lower economic people are not holding up their end in this deal. These people are not parenting. They are buying things for their kids. $500 sneakers for what? But they won’t spend $200 for Hooked on Phonics!’

Bill Cosby came to town and upstaged the reverend by going on the offensive instead of defending his earlier remarks. Thursday morning, Cosby showed no signs of repenting as he strode across the stage at the Sheraton Hotel ballroom before a standing room only crowd. Sporting a natty gold sports coat and dark glasses, he proceeded to unload a Laundry list of black America’s self-imposed ills. The iconic actor and comedian kidded that he couldn’t compete with the oratory of the Reverend but he preached circles around Jackson in their nearly hour-long conversation, delivering brutally frank one-liners and the toughest of love The enemy, he argues, is us: “There is a time, ladies and gentlemen, when we have to turn the mirror around.”

Cosby acknowledged he wasn’t critiquing all blacks ... just the 50 percent of African Americans in the lower economic neighborhoods who drop out of

Corridor at Cedar Estates. school, and the alarming proportions of black men in prison and black teenage mothers.

The mostly black crowd seconded him with choruses of “amen.” To the critics who state that it’s unproductive to air our dirty laundry in public, Cosby responds, “Your dirty laundry gets out of school at 2:30 every day.” It’s cursing on the way home, on the bus, train, in the candy store. They are cursing and grabbing each other and going nowhere. The book bag is very, very thin because there’s nothing in it. Don’t worry about the white man,” he added.

I could care less about what white people think about me. . . Let them talk.

What are they saying that is so different from what their grandfathers said and did to us? What is different is what we are doing to ourselves.”

For those who say Cosby is just an elitist who’s “got his” but doesn’t understand the plight of the black poor, he reminds us that, “We’re going to turn that mirror around. It’s not just the poor-- everybody’s guilty.” Cosby and Jackson lamented that in the 50th year of Brown vs. the Board of Education, our failings betray our legacy. Jackson dabbed away tears as he recalled the financial struggles at Fisk University, a

The Promise People

by Fred Seals For about a year now we have heard about the “Promise Neighborhood.”

We’ve had meetings, and we have heard about Promise this and Promise that. It all sounded good, but a lot of us probably wondered, and are still wondering, “Who are these people? Why do they care about us?”

For the last four months I have had the good fortune to attend their board and planning meetings, and I am convinced that this group is special. They are intelligent, talented, and focused.

And they really do care.

This will be an ongoing attempt to introduce them to all the residents in the Campus District.

First, Rocky Richardson: She is the Executive Director at Campus District, Inc. She was a Vice President/Director of Community Investement at Charter One, Vice President and Manager/ Community Development Sales at Sky

Financial Group.

She attended Princeton University.

Rocky has three more pages of credits, accomplishments and successes. Unfor- Rocky Richardson, tunately we can’t Executive Director of take up the entire the Campus District paper but Princeton University says it all. Despite all the brainpower, Rocky is one of the most down-to-earth people you will ever meet.

The fact that she has put up with me for the last three months is proof that she has infinite patience, and a profound sense of humor.

Fred Seals has been a Cedar Central Resident for three years and is Cedar Hi Rise LAC Vice President.

historically black college and Jackson’s Alma mater.

Cosby’s plea to parents: “Before you get to the point where you say, ‘I can’t do nothing with them,’ do something with them.” Teach our children to speak English. There’s no such thing as “talking white.” When the teacher calls, show up at the school. When the idiot box starts spewing profane rap videos; turn it off. Refrain from cursing around the kids. Teach our boys that women should be cherished, not raped and demeaned. Tell them that education is a prize we won with blood and tears, not a dishonor. Stop making

excuses for the agents and abettors of black-on-black crime.

It costs us nothing to do these things. But if we don’t, it will cost us infinitely more tears. We all send thousands of jokes through e-mail without a second thought, but when it comes to sending messages regarding life choices, people think twice about sharing. The crude, vulgar, and sometimes the obscene pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion of decency is too often suppressed in the schools and workplaces.

When Cosby was done, the 1,000 people in the room all jumped to their feet in an ovation. We have shed tears too many times, at too many watershed moments before, while the hopes they inspired have fallen by the wayside.

Not this time!

Sculpture at Cedar Estates.

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“We want to be your neighborhood Pharmacy”!

Part of Rx Family of Services: Rx Home Healthcare, Inc & Central Rx Pharmacy

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The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

Page 6

September, 2011

SCHOOLS / LIBRARIES

This Summer I Hear The Drumming What I Experienced And Learned At Kent State University

by Betsy Voinovich

by Dejanee Cammon

We introduced the Freedom Scholars in last month’s Campus District Observer, they are members of the Freedom Leadership Academy at Cuyahoga Community College which provides enrichment experiences and mentoring support for students in grades 8-12. The goal of the program is to equip its participants with innovative approaches to problem-solving, and to challenge them to set high goals for personal achievement, while encouraging commitment to community service, advocacy and leadership.

This month, some the Freedom Scholars report on their trip to Kent State.

I learned more about what happened on May 4, 1970. Turns out people were just protesting against the Vietnam War because they thought it was wrong. They had called in the National Guard because the people who were protesting went so far as to burn down the ROTC building. That was the place where they recruited people for the army. One of the officers had a miscommunication with another officer which caused them to fire 67 shots in 13 seconds. The end result was four people dead and a lot of people wounded.

We went to the Eastway Center where there is a food court and a store were you purchase food, a bowling alley, and a movie rental center. They also had replicas set up to show you what the freshman, sophomore, junior and, senior dorms look like. They looked so cool! The library there has 12 floors with study centers and free Wi-Fi. The Kent State colors are blue and gold. If you don’t have a car you can take the bus they have there.

Overall it was great experience. It makes you really think about what college you want to go to.

Kent State University is a great choice!

photo by Betsy Voinovich

Freedom Scholars Weigh In On Kent State

Day One as community journalists: Freedom Scholars sign onto the Campus District Observer website.

The Kent State Field Trip

Adventures At Kent State things in their school and community.

by Amanie McGee

by Tevin McDowell My trip to Kent State University today was fantastic. I got a little taste of what to expect. I’ve put some thought in about going to Kent. I actually thought college was going to be the most difficult challenge I would face in my life, but thanks to the guest speakers that informed me about college I now think it will be easy and fun.

Although there is one thing that everyone has been facing, commuting from place to place by walking. I’ve walked long distances before, but was unbelievable especially walking up steep hills. The buildings there nice but some of the ones we wanted to visit had construction work in progress or were being renovated so those were off limits. We saw what the rooms were like that people stay in, they’re called dorms. Some are cheap, some are expensive. Some dorms are big, small, one-roomed, and two-roomed. They also had the biggest basketball arena I’ve ever seen, but we couldn’t go inside. The library and the cafeteria were some of my favorite places to be.

Today I had a very fun and educational experience at Kent state university.

Kent State- Freedom School

by Emeka Ezepue Kent State was nice. The tour was long and there was a lot of history behind Kent State and it was pretty interesting. I liked the people who came to speak, they were very inspiring and they took the load off going to college. What really got me was when the director of admissions told us that all you need to do to graduate college is read, write, and go to class. The other speakers told us about their college experience and how college is how you make it. As I walked around Kent, I observed the surrounding environment. I noticed a lot of interesting things like the Malcolm X painting on the wall in one of the hallways or the black squirrel statue in one of the buildings. The campus is very big, it was kind of annoying walking from building to building. The people there were friendly and they were interested in what freedom school is and what we do.

Kent State University Trip

by Monique Priah My experience at Kent State was enriching. We saw so many different buildings. We went into the library which is the tallest building in Portage County. We also went into Eastway which had the only bowling alley on a college campus in Ohio.

We saw the memorial site for the four students who got shot on May 4,1970.

DJ Freedom also told us about another shooting in 1991. In this shooting, 3 people were killed by a sniper. There were four dorms named Allyn, Clark, Manchester, and Fletcher. There was an honors dorm for the honor students. We went into the Michael Schwartz building which had the Admissions office, Financial Aid, etc.

Kent is home to one of the top 10 fashion schools in the world. I learned that when you’re attending college, you have to be serious about your work.You have to put your schoolwork as your #1 priority in college. If you want to graduate you have to be determined to make it. The school has a nice campus, but I’m not sure if I want to go there.

I really enjoyed the trip to Kent State. I’ve learned new things about Kent and about the people around me. The day started off like any other day at Freedom School, breakfast and Harambee. Then we were split into our teams and the scavenger hunt began.

Each team started at different points and we all had to see and take pictures of different things. The whole time our group leaders shared fun facts about Kent State, and of course they shared their experiences. We finished with the hunt and returned to the room.

We started to eat lunch and shortly after that we had a sort of question and answer session with students that went to Kent State. They are doing positive

Afterwards we set off back home.

I had a lot of fun and I would love to come back for another visit. Before I wasn’t considering Kent as one of my college options but now I am. The reason I never thought about Kent was because I heard it was a party school and I don’t want to deal with that. But now that I’ve actually been to the campus and learned more about the school I’ve come to the conclusion that I like the school. I like the library, the dorms, and I utterly loved the Hub. It’s close to home, maybe not as far as I would like, but it’s a good distance for my independence. The whole experience was enlightening, fun, and I utterly enjoyed it.

My Day At Kent

by Tyanna Brown My day at Kent State was okay, I had an interesting experience. This experience was something that I will always remember because it was different and it’s something that I probably wouldn’t have done for myself at this age. I liked how everybody was cooperating and following the instructions asked of them, that turkey sandwich was also good!

It went way better than I thought because I was expecting Professor Thought to become mid evil on someone. I loved the artifact pictures in the Oscar Richie building, especially the painting of Malcolm X, it was very educational in terms of showing what happened and it was very artistic. The May 4th exhibit was good too; I just wish those innocent people were still here today. Although I had an okay time learning new things and being around my friends, I do wish we could’ve found more of the scavenger hunt clues instead of goofing off at every location that we found. I appreciate Freedom School exposing me to different locations and teaching new things.

Thanks.

Life-Changing Opportunities At Kent State

by Jazzmine Simmons ing on Kent State I liked. This building My day at Kent State was a tiring, but also a learning experience. I learned Kent State has many opportunities, and this experience also taught me how it’s going to be as a college student.

We walked to various buildings, in the Oscar Richie building there was one mural that stuck out to me the most, the Malcolm X Assassination. This mural explains exactly what happened without words. I also saw a painting that had a quote, “That a Man without Knowledge of Himself Is a Man without Roots in a Tree.”

The library was also another build-

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is of one the biggest building in Portage County. This was the only library I saw or know of that has 12 floors.

The May 4th Memorial is very popular at Kent State because that was a devastating day for Kent State students.

On this day innocent lives were taken by the National Guard for fighting for rights as a class. I am really considering going to Kent State In two years. Not only are the opportunities GREAT, but they are also life-changing.

Thanks for This Experience.

Jazzmine Simmons

September, 2011

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

Page 7

Arch Angels

Arch Angels Report From The Set Directing The Play..! Chasing Dreams..!

by Kenya Spencer I Like Being Director Because Im In Charge..! I Also Like Watching People Act Out The Play And Correcting People On Their Mistakes And I Love Helping People On Their Emotions And Stuff..

It’s Also Fun Interacting With The Play And Giving People Their Parts..! And The Part I Like The Most Is Giving Ideas And Watching My ideas Come To Life..

It’s Fun Calling The Actors By Their Character Names So they Can Get Used To Their Character’s Names...

The Best Part Is How We All Helped Write the Play.. We All Gave Ideas To Help The Play Come too Life.. We Named The Characters Names..! We Relate The Chacters To Some Of Our Lives..! The Best Part Of The Experience Is Knowing What Character Fits Who..!

And It’s Fun Memorizing The Play And Knowing What To Do When It’s Time To Do It..!

Characters Anthony DeAndre’ - Founder Kimlisa Ann - Manager Karen Brown - Producer Baby Grim - Rapper Griffin - R&B Singer Bridget- Rock Star Zanel Rancher - Singer Juice ((Rap Group))- Ro, Dep, Drama Sophisticated ((Singing Group)) Angel, Makia, Aaliyah J Struggle Aka JS Myles- JS Best Friend Black- JS Friend 1 Blue- JS Friend 2 Lady Jolly Rancher Aka Lady J- Drug Lord Bravo- Work For Lady J Goons 5 People Works For Lady J Heavier Ants- Family About The Play The Play Is About JS An Ex Drug Dealer Changing His Life, Geting Married After The Sudden Death Of His Best Friend Myles, He Soon Gets Married To “Ange,l” A Member Of The Group “Sophisticated”.. And More...

My name is Kenya Spencer. I am a member of Project EDU- Tainment .

Im 13 Years Old. I Like To Talk Write and Sing. Im Open Minded. I Love To Speak My Mind. And Im Very Friendly. And Thats About It...

My Experience At Project Edu - Tainment

by Daeja Croskey My experience in this summer program is great. I got to do a lot of stuff I would not be able to do at home. I got a lot out of it. We are having a play called Chasing Dreams. I hope you readers had a chance to come and watch the play.

We go to eat breakfast in CSU’s Uno Bar and have lunch in the CSU Cafe. I am also a part of Archangel artist development where they help me with my singing and rapping. I am so glad that the first place this program came was to Marion Sterling where most of us went to school.

I have met rappers and singers. In this play I will be sing and be kissing *yuk* another actor but that’s just a part of acting (LOL). Arch Angel is like family when you get to know them. Sometimes they want to leave but they can’t cause they love us too much to leave. Love you Arrie *Kiss* well, this is where I end it by saying Bow Bow Bow Arch Angels Hawwwww. Love you all, and good luck in life as it gets harder.

Our Arch Angel Program

The Coaches!

by Shanae M. Martin

by Kira Brooks The coaches at the program are fun but at the same time STRICT! They don’t take disrespect as an option. If you disrespect them they consider that as disrespecting everybody.

They can be kids themselves at times when they are in a good mood but when you get on their bad side you might as well consider yourself dead meat..

They also can be somebody in your life that you can talk to if you have nobody to talk to, to cry to, they are always there for you no matter what.. They might live your situation but they try to understand the best way they can and make you feel better than you ever have... That’s why they are the best,.!

Signed Kira Pamela’Anne

Arch Angels is a program where kids show their talents and could be able to learn something in life. People can have the potential to show what they know and show other people what they have learned. There could be a possibility that you can grow up and be able to get on the radio or on TV and get famous from what you have learned in this program.

What we are doing right now is

My Arch Angel Future

by Treshaun Evans From: Treshaun Evans To: The World Hello Everyone, This is my story of being an Arch Angel. We have a lot of fun. This Saturday we’re doin a citywide play about our life and we’re all interested. With the help of coaches Mr. Al, Ms.Ty, Ms.Arrie, Ms.Nita, Ms.Denice, and Ms.Drea were really working hard to perfect it.

Sometime it’s hard, but we never give up on our goals because we’re very stong believers, and with us following our beliefs we got introduced to a lot of famous Arch Angels like Papi, Scrilla, Rika, Wrekin Squadd,Young Scratt, and Silver Bee. I have worked with auditions also, and what it takes to get the part is that

Terry Pim from CWRU, and Dr. Michael Schoop, President of Tri-C Metro, attend the premiere of “Chasing Dreams” at Tri C. you have to really work hard and take your time and do your best. My part in the play is Baby Grim and with the help of all of my friends i have almost perfected all of my parts.

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working on a play to show what we can do and what we are learning, it feels good to show the people what we are doing. The founder and C.E.O is helping the kids better themselves in their life and future. If you know ALEX D. SHORTER than you should know that he’s a good man because he took the time out of his jobs and life to help these hardheaded kids that don’t listen to nobody and even though they don’t listen he still deals with them.

Another person that is the head of the Arch Angel program is TY TUCKER. She helps the founder (Alex) with all the kids that participate in the program. They get a little hard on you when you’re not focused on what you are supposed to be doing. They get so many record deals where we can end up on stage. My name is SHANAE M. MARTIN and I am a part of the Arch Angel program and I did achieve something.

Page 8

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

September, 2011

Arch Angels My Dream

by Treshawn Newsome

Breaunte Davis taking photos for this edition of the paper of her friends and classmates in Edu-tainment.

Edu-Tainment Is Fun

by Breaunte Davis What I like about the Edu-tainment program is that we make plays and have fun. We go to breakfast and lunch at CSU.That is some good food. The play is going good-- we have everything in the play that we’re supposed to have.

If we do bad we have consequences. We go places that are fun too. Every Friday we have fun day because we go outside and go to the gym. I missed some days but I catch up on stuff quick.

In the play I am Karen, I am happy. We have the play coming up. We’re having conversations on facebook. We’re having famous people coming to see us, that’s fun. It is like school. We’re going to have fied trips too and they’re going to be fun.

That is all I know right now, tell you more later.

I am Breaunte Davis. I love to be in stuff. I am 11 years old. My birthday is March 2, 2000. I love to type. I stay with my mom.

The Scenario Of The Day

I dreamt that one day I would become the next best singer and I didn’t see that at all. I was a little boy with no resources but a beautiful voice, but I didn’t do anything with it. We are from Cleveland, I have three younger siblings that were born in Syracuse, New York. When we moved back to Cleveland my mom had 5 more children. We stayed with our grandmother a while til we got our own place on 116th, Matilda. We left that house after we stayed there without water for about 2, 3 months.

When we found out that the landlord had lost the house and we had to move my dad found a quick place on West 48th, Storer. We stayed there for about a month or 2 before we started school. We attended Waverly for one school year. My grade point average was 3.8. I was the proudest kid there.

I’ve always been an A, B student, but that all changed when we moved onto East 30th were I attended Thomas Jefferson for 1 school year.

At Thomas Jefferson I got in trouble a lot, I mean a whole lot, I was in trouble so much that I almost failed. I would never let that happen to myself.

So toward the end of the year I got my self together. I was able to attend all the field trips, I almost got suspended for surfing I didn’t do-- I was really mad at

Hello Hello “The Scenario of the Day” is something every teenager goes through in their late I’ll say teens. Even if you’ve already done it now you know not to do it again.

Ready...Set...Go You want to go to a party at your friend’s house, your friends say it’s going to be a Blast, they even said on Facebook that Lil Wayne was going to be there. Your Mom says you can go. When you get there you see all your friends.

One of them calls you to the back, he pulls a blunt from out of his jacket, now knowing that your Mom trusted you enough to go to the party, also nowing that you got asthma but it went down a little bit-- what do you do?

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that-- but it all worked out. I attended the whole year. The last day of school was great.

In the summer i found this program for kids with talent so i joined.

They have prepared a play for us to succeed and perform but i don’t think that we are ready. A lot of kids won’t be ready but i am. They also have a boy band they are preparing, I have worked my way up to the lead singer and I will keep it that way because this is my dream.

I am Treshawn Newsome I am a very smart and dedicated to AAI(Arch Angel International). I really hope that this program will stay here in Cleveland and proceed to help the children of 30th. I am the eldest of 10. My mom and dad are only 31 and 33 so they are very young and I hope that they live to see all of my siblings including me proceed into and out of college.

Me Being Me At All Times

by Aero Twin

by Alonte’ Barnett

Arch Angels practicing play.

Hey I believe being you will get you far in life. i believe being you is good because if you’re not you, then you’re someone else and that’s not the good thing to be.

Let me introduce myself, my name is Aero. I want to be a lawyer when i get older, my back-up plan is to become a wonderful singer. I am a grey-haired child at the age of 13.

I am proud to be different because if every one’s the same the world wouldn’t go a around.

I believe being you is not hard, just be what god wants you to be.

I try to help people with problems and I believe that I have to have an opinion on every thing I think is wrong or right. I get a lot of things done if i am listening to music while doing the task. i believe I am a very great person to come to with problems. I think I am a nothing but what I am now.

I think the world is a place is where fun and happiness are sup-

posed to be at all times.

Okay, that’s all about me, let’s get to the story. I am a member of Arch Angels and we are working on a play. I star as “Myles” in the play. Myles is a person that helps his best friend Josha with his problems and Josha uses his advice to become a big time rapper. Myles enjoys having Josha as his friend.

Myles doesn’t want to lose Josha over petty drugs or over not being not smart enough to help him with his rapping. Myles died in Scene 12 because Lady Jolly Rancher and Bravo, her goon, were watching as Josha and Myles talked after Josha become a big time rapper. As josha exits the store, Lady Jolly Rancher and Bravo and the goon enter the store and shoot Myles because of being Josha’s best friend. In Scene 13 everyone celebrates Myles death and Josha knows he can’t get revenge because he knows his best friend Myles wouldn’t not like that.

The Consequences Of Acting Up..!

by Kira Brooks

Until next time, be safe, be nothing you’re not. Be you:) I’m am a guy that loves to draw, krump, rap, and make people laugh.

Alonte’ Barnett

In the project Edu-Tainment program the consequences for when you act up is to flamingo and or go home..The way you flamingo is by putting one of your legs all the way up tp your knee with out puting it on the ground and your hands on the top of your head...The time you have to flamingo is 5 mins. if you put your leg anywhere down your knee and or on the ground your 5 mins start all over again... and if you dont do the flamingo procedure you have to go home for the rest of the day and call before your come back the next day.

Signed Kira Pamela’Anne

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September, 2011

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

Page 9

Arch Angels

Arch Angels - Chasing Dreams - The Play Project Edu-tainment students write and perform their own musical Scenes from “Chasing Dreams” by the Arch Angels The following scenes are the opening scenes from Project Edu-tainment’s Arch Angels’ self-written and produced musical, “Chasing Dreams.” To see what happens next, get the October issue of the Campus District Observer.

Chasing Dreams Scene 1: Intro Scene opens with Young Jeezy’s “Put On” with members of AA Music Group working hard in the studio/ dorm room (taking calls, running boxes of cd’s in and out the door, talking to each other about notes, artist in the booth, etc.) Music fades and dialogue starts, Anthony D: (Hangs up phone and says) We did it! (Room cheers) Kim Ann: We did? Finally (sighs with relief) Anthony D: Yes! We got Saturn’s Pizza to give our crew a 20% discount on all orders! (AA handshakes Ro) Baby Grim: It’s about time, all the money we been blowin with that spot.

They need to just make us partners.

(Everyone lol) Anthony D: One takeover at time Grim. (lol) Kim Ann: Yeah, says the guy, who takes over two colleges, starts an afterschool program, monopolizes the music scene in Cleveland, and gets his team discount meals, and that’s one year. Can we get three cheers for our fearless leader?

AA: Bow, Bow, Bow, ARCH ANGEL!!!

Anthony D: It was all of us, without you guys I would be still dreaming, instead of living my dreams, especially you Kim, (Puts arm around Kim) best partner I ever had.

Karen: Well, since I have been sitting here “All Day” producing “Hits” I have this enormous appetite Zanel: Oh baby and song birds need their energy!

Anthony D: Ok, ok, I get it! Let’s go eat (AA all jumps up and tosses work) But….When we get back we have to start getting ready for the Fresh On Campus College Tour auditions. Deal?

Aaliyah : Alright! We get it, your DETERMAINED! But even entrepreneurs have to EAT! Ro: 20% discount! What?!? I’m gonna eat pizza till yall have to carry me out Plankin!

AA: Laugh together (heads out door) End scene.

Scene 2: The Other side of town Begins with Joseph/J Struggle talking to his friend Myles who is concerned JS: Jolly, Holly, Molly. They all sound the same to me. Soft little girls, (lol) Myles: I’m just concerned brah, I think you should really find some help,

or go to the cops…

JS: What? You think I should go to popo? Lol. And you think I need help?

That is the last thing I should do. I ain’t no snitch! Snitches get stitches.

Myles: And so do people who owe large amounts of cash to crazy female drug lords! Look, we are best friends and I would hate to lose you over some petty drug money. This life has never helped anybody.

JS: What has? Working your fingers to the bone for crumbs, working 9 to 5 for minimum wage, or bagging groceries at your Grandpa’s hole in the wall store your whole life?

Myles: My family has always been proud to serve our community, and it’s better than spending big money only to spend bigger time in prison.

JS: I’m smarter than all those people, I’m gonna be bigger than Scare Face and Nino Brown. (Starts counting money) When I take over the city you can come work for me, lol.

Myles: You not even bigger than your own mouth! (Shakes head) I’m done. Good luck! When the real gangstas find you, your gonna need it. Here comes one of your many great decisions now (Starts to walk away while a girl approaches JS) JS: Lady Jolly Rancher is a joke, besides who names their self after a candy anyway?

Kim: Why did u lie to that girl?

Mikiya: I didn’t want to hurt her feelings! Dep over there laughing like its funny (rolls her eyes at him) Dep: (Burst out laughing) That was freaking hilarious! She should have said comedy. She would have a solid slot. (lol) Griffen: I agree! That’s was comic relief at its best. (lol) Mikiya: That took courage to go out there in front of us!

Kim: Yeah it did….. but I hurt myself holding it in (burst out laughing) AA: (LOL) Mikiya: Sometimes I hate you guys Ant D: (stops laughing) Ok, leave Mikiya alone, we know that was a friend of hers she promised a slot, but that’s why we have auditions for these exact reasons. What do we have so far?

Kim: We have everything except an exceptional solo rapper Karen: I know, rappers aren’t what they used to be. All it is now is money, booty, materials and me, me, me. What happen to someone you could relate everyday life to?

Dep: Somebody who has a way with words and vocabulary…

Griffen: Someone who takes rapping serious as the great art form it is…

AA: (Looks at Ant D) Ant D: No, no, no. I got into the background for reason. I want to help other people nurture their gifts and talents before I focus on myself. This is bigger than just one of us.

Opening Day! for the play.

(Girl walks up to him and kisses him on the cheek) Val: Hey baby, how are things today. You make any money?

JS: (Pulls out knot) Don’t I always Val: Cool cause I needed help with getting my Granny a gift for her B-Day today, and I know my boo got me right?

(Hugs JS) JS: Man when is you gonna get a job?

Val: Same time you do!

JS: This is my “Job” (Gives her some money) Val: (LOL and snatches money), This ain’t no job, It’s a cop out from doin real work, this ain’t real money, You ain’t the only home boy makin “easy” fast money, and you for sure

ain’t the last, lol. Don’t think that this is something. If I wanted I could have went to somebody for “More”. (LOL, and walks away counting money) JS: (Watches her walk away silently) End Scene Scene 3: Audition Day Ant D, Kim, Karen, Dep, Mikiya, and Griffin sit at table looking overwhelmed from the acts that have already performed for them while a girl dances crazy on stage Mikiya: Thank you, thank you.

We have seen enough. We will contact you with results in about a week. (Girls exits)

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Kim: They have a point. You could make a difference in this. You said it’s bigger than one of us, so be a part of this for the team. Or, at least teach someone how to do what you do.

Ant D: That might be a good idea!

That way I can finish the job I started, work on my craft and others, save the show, and win all at once….but where would I find a real, raw, and dedicated rapper?

Mikiya: Where did you learn?

AA: (Everyone looks at Mikiya amazed, Ant shakes head in approval) End Scene

Scene 4: Back to the streets (The Hang Out) At the local neighborhood hangout there are lots of different groups hanging out playing music. One of those groups is the “Rappers Syffer” where rappers compete for cash prizes and bragging rights. Joseph is there in one of the groups with friends.

JS: This is pretty cool I never been here before, its jiggin.

Black: I told you this the place where it all goes down, you really trying to make some money this where you start.

JS: Oh Yeah? Well let me go back to the car (Starts to walk away) Black: (Grabs him) Not that kind of money stupid, The kind of money the police can’t confiscate (lol) The “Syffer” is all legal. Rappers put up cash against other rappers to see who runs it. The better you are the more money you can make.

JS: So all I have to do is go rap and I can make more money than this (Pulls money out) Black: (lol) That’s chump change compared to what’s been made out here in one night, these guys will put pink slips on the line to prove their greatness.

Blue: Speaking of greatness (He points to AA walking through the crowd showing love) Black: There goes the neighborhood, Ant D!!!(He barks out) Let me introduce you to a real business man (He says to JS) (Black approaches Ant D and shows him love) Black: Long time to see!

Ant D: You know, business is growing fast Black: No need to explain to us, We understand extremely. You doing bigger things now, but the hood will always have open arms. We been waiting on the album forever, what’s up?

Ant D: I’m working the executive’s chair right now, but I’ll be in the both soon Black & Blue: (Black) Can’t wait!

(Blue) We on it.

Ant D: Any new real talent out here these days?

End Scene To be continued in the next edition of The Campus District Observer...

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

Page 10

September, 2011

BUSINESS Tap Packaging Solutions

Over 100 Years In The Neighborhood

by Rockette Richardson David Chilcote can effortlessly recite from memory the significant milestones in the over hundred year history of his family’s business. Tap Packaging Solutions, formerly known as The Chilcote Company, has been a fixture on the northern end of what we now refer to as the Campus District since 1920, when David’s grandfather, August Chilcote, moved into and expanded a facility on Superior Avenue to manufacture mounts for photographs. The elder Chilcote established the business in 1906 on Prospect Ave., just south of its current location, having begun his career working at a Columbus area photography studio before moving his family to Cleveland. David, currently chairmen of the board, joined the company in 1991 after an early career in banking, and is the third generation of his family to lead the business. He’s not the only Chilcote still working there – David’s father, in his

Tap Packaging employee Dan Crawford.

Tap Packaging Solutions’ employeeowner Glen West. nineties, still comes to the office every day.

Over the years, the company proved itself to be very adaptable, adjusting to meet the changing needs of a changing marketplace and taking advantage of new technologies. In the cash-strapped days of the Depression and the early days of World War II, American families stayed home and jigsaw puzzles became a favored pastime.

In response, Chilcote shifted its printing and manufacturing capabilities to jigsaw puzzles – at one point in the 30’s making 50,000 puzzles a day - to meet the demand for inexpensive home-based entertainment. In 1955, the company

purchased Taprell Loomis (“TAP”) from the Eastman Kodak Company. At the time, TAP was the nation’s largest manufacturer of photo mounts and also produced a line of photo albums.

With this purchase, the company expanded its capacity significantly, and was now able to engage larger clients and make bigger production runs, more cost effeciently.

During the 70s and 80s, the company focused on building its manufacturing capabilities, adding a number of printing and foil-stamping presses.

Today, Tap Packaging Solutions manufactures high quality, custom

Sanja Skopljak and Ljiljana Tankosic work to complete an order at Tap Packaging Solutions.

Jane Alarcon, one of Tap Packaging Solution’s employee owners. designed packaging and presentation products for photography, confectionary and other specialty uses, and its clients range from advertising agencies and marketing companies to confectioners, government agencies and any other companies that need high quality packaging.

In 1984, the company became one of the first in Ohio to establish an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (or ESOP), which gave every employee a vested interest in the company’s success. Its employeeowners now number over 200. When asked to reflect on the company’s longevity and success, David Chilcote points to their core values – innovation, resourcefulness and teamwork.

What Your Credit Score Means To You, How You Improve It

by Fred Dolan There are a few important numbers that follow you during your lifetime, but few of them are as important as your credit score. This three-digit number can either work in your favor or work against you, and you have a lot of control over how it affects your finances.

What Is A Credit Score Basically, your credit score is an indication of how creditworthy you are. Ranging from 300 – 850 in the most commonly used FICO measurement system, the higher the number, the better your score. Most consumers have credit scores between 650 and 800, with anything over 800 considered excellent and anything under 620 falling into negative credit areas.

What Your Score Means To You People with a score of 800+ are able to receive the best loan and mortgage rates because they are considered “Excellent” credit risks.

With a score under 620, people are considered poor credit risks. To qualify for a loan or credit card, if they can find a financial institution that will even lend to them, they will usually pay very high interest rates which will end up costing them large amounts of money.

Establishing Your Credit Score Four factors determine credit score: payment history, amounts owed, length

of credit history, and types and number or new accounts opened. 35% is payment history, 30% is card utilization (balance vs credit limit), 15% is length of credit history, 10% is types of credit, and 10% is recent inquiries for credit.

Other factors that can influence the score include judgments and tax liens.

Credit is something that must be respected. When you start out on your credit journey, you have no track record. It’s up to you how you will handle credit. If you pay your bills on time, never miss a payment, and borrow only what you can afford to pay back, you will establish a solid credit record, indicating that you can probably be trusted with another loan in the future at a competitive rate. If you don’t, you are heading for a low credit score and hard times.

Annual Credit Reports American consumers can receive free annual credit reports from all three credit reporting agencies. Visit the official website annualcreditreport. com or call 1-877-322-8228 to receive your credit reports with no further obligations. There are many additional websites which will supply you with your credit reports and your credit score, but often, these sites are not free.

Please read all the fine print before you commit to any of these sites.

Looking at your credit reports on

an annual basis gives you the information that creditors see when you apply for credit. These reports give you a chance to make sure that all of your credit information is correct and verify that your credit information is not being used in an identity theft scheme.

It will also provide you with specific information to help you take steps to improve your credit rating.

Improving Your Credit Score If you have a bad credit score, the good news is that you can take steps to improve it. Some financial institutions like Ohio’s First Class Credit Union in the Campus District will help you.

They can identify things that you need to do to help raise your score. Sometimes people believe their credit rating is worse than it actually is, so consulting with a financial institution may produce positive results. Some institutions also offer loans with damaged

credit scores in mind. For example, using a share secured credit card is one way that you can improve your credit score.

If your credit score is low, you can take action to improve it. But do not kid yourself, your bad credit rating did not happen overnight; and unless you win the lottery and pay off all of your debt, it takes time for it to improve.

Most people will need credit at various times in their lives. No one wants to pay higher interest rates than necessary. No one wants to be turned down for a loan. And like it or not, your credit score will be with you for life. This is why maintaining a good credit score is important. This is also why it’s important to take steps to improve your rating if your credit score is low. It may not be easy, but it is worth the effort.

Fred Dolan does marketing for Ohio’s First Class Credit Union.

Trinity Cathedral

an incluSive com m u nity of faith

holy eucha

8 a.m. and 10 a.

BiBle Study 9 a.m.

9 a.m. Sunda

Yoga with Sherr

July 3,17, 31 August 14, 28

Summer SundayS

Join the Discussion at: www.campusdistrictobserver.com Independence Day weekend through Labor Day, come casual and cool to our summer Sundays.

Children may partic

Child care availa

Our 12:10 p.m. Th

September, 2011

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

Page 11

CAMPUS DISTRICT BUSINESS

CSU Names College Of Business After Former Student, Monte Ahuja

by Betsy Voinovich When the brand new Campus District Observer contacted Cleveland State University to let them know that a new all-community-written paper was headed their way, and that we considered them a big part of the community, they invited us to an exciting event going on the next day, that they thought might be a story we would be interested in, as it is a story that could be inspirational to our readers in the Campus District. The story is about the success and generosity of CSU alum and business and community leader,Monte Ahuja, giving back to his community, and back to his school.

In the spirit of the Observer mission of citizens telling their own story, President Berkman graciously allowed us to use his speech, so the story of the renaming of the CSU College of Business after CSU student, business and community leader Monte Ahuja, could be told by a citizen who lives, works, or plays in the Campus District.

Thank you Dr. Berkman, and Joe Mosbrook for the invitation and for your immediate support of the Campus District Observer.

Dr. Berkman’s speech: We are here today to recognize the extraordinary passion and generosity of one of our community’s foremost leaders and CSU alum, Monte Ahuja.

In first meeting with Monte, several months after assuming the presidency, his passion for higher education and for Cleveland State University was evident. This passion is borne from his experience as a student of CSU, as a member of the Board for 9 years, and Chairman of the Board for 6 years.

Monte’s work on behalf of this University is truly a part of our institutional DNA and today we recognize another extraordinary contribution that Monte and Usha make to the University and more importantly to our students.

Monte’s story is an inspiration for students who come to CSU to gain the skills to build a successful career.

Indeed, Monte’s blueprint for building one of the most successful businesses in Northern Ohio was etched while Monte was a student at the business school. Monte was encouraged

by Dr. Susbauer, who was teaching an entrepreneurship class, to take an assignment he completed in the class and turn it into a working business plan. In an article written about Monte in 2007, Dr. Susbauer said “I remember Monte because he stood out. He was dedicated. He was driven. He was a good student. Monte was obviously diligent and I thought his plan was a good concept.”

Today, Monte’s development as an entrepreneur is used as a “case study” in management classes at CSU – as we learned from the waitress who served us at our first meeting.

I want to share with you an email

Dr. Berkman, Mayor Jackson, Chancellor Jim Petro, new senior fellow in the College of Urban Affairs, former Senator George Voinovich, Monte, his wife Usha, and family pose with the banner displaying the name of The Monte Ahuja College of Business.

I received the day we met the CSU student working as a waitress to support her education.

“Dear President Berkman, Thank you and your colleagues for the warm reception when I interrupted your lunch this afternoon. It really made my day to meet you all. I am sending the paper I told you about. It was only a 3 page assignment but even

300 pages wouldn’t do Monte Ahuja justice.

I have to briefly share this little irony with you. In many of the articles I read for this assignment,Monte Ahuja mentioned the role of fate in his life journey. I have been musing all day over the fate that brought Mr. Ahuja into my restaurant the day after I turned in my assignment.”

This student finished her paper with the following observation: Monte Ahuja cites fate as just as big a factor in his success as anything else.“If I did not come to Cleveland, I wouldn’t have ended up with (my first job). If I hadn’t ended up in that company, I probably wouldn’t even have thought about transmission parts.

It’s a series of incidents and fate that brings you where you are today…..

Fate is being in the right place in the right time with the right people.” I beg to differ. He was in those right places and times because he put himself there with his hard work and determination. Always fair but relentless in his pursuits, Monte Ahuja serves as an inspiration and example to aspire to.

Today, Monte, Usha and the family launch a new chapter in their fraternity with Cleveland State University. It is with the utmost respect, appreciation and admiration that we announce a gift of 10 million dollars, the largest gift in the history of Cleveland State and the second largest gift given to a public university in Ohio this year.

In recognition of this gift, the CSU Board of Trustees has unanimously voted to rename the business school, The Monte Ahuja College of Business.

Ohio Valley Supply And Maintenance Company, Your Neighbor For Twenty Years

by Tim Kopp My company, Ohio Valley Supply & Maintenance, moved in to its home at 2122 St. Clair Avenue in the Campus District, in 1991, but the business started thirteen years earlier.

My father, Roy Kopp, was Vice President of the Plain Dealer, and we had a weekend home in Altoona, Pennsylvania.

Family friends of ours in Altoona have a supply business similar to Ohio Valley Supply & Maintenance Co. I would go up to Altoona to go out on supply calls for their huge supply company, and they helped me start my business.

I started my own business with $300 in 1978. I bought some miscellaneous cleaning supplies, and I went out and sold them. When I got paid, I bought some more. This was just like the supply calls in Altoona, but without the huge supply business and inventory. In this way, Ohio Valley Supply & Maintenance Co. built a business from scratch on supplies and relationships.

In 1979 I rented space at the old Fisher Foods warehouse for $5 per month for warehousing and receiving.

In 1992, the year after moving to the Campus District, my company bought and joined the building next door.

Most recently, in the fall of 2009, we expanded into the old rental location of Sutton Hardware across the street.

Ohio Valley Supply & Maintenance

Tim Kopp, owner of Ohio Valley Supply & Maintenance Co. Co. has a great address and we like being located in the Campus District, in the heart of downtown Cleveland.

We have three delivery trucks of which two are out every day. We sell the products to fill our customers’ paper towel dispensers, hand-soap dispensers, toiletry cover dispensers. We also sell the dispensers, and install them free of charge. We get an order and we deliver it the next day for free with no minimum purchase and no freight charge.

The road access and central location of my Campus District headquarters is vital to the operation of my business.

These are tough times, economi-

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cally, but ever since I started it has been a struggle every day. We’re making it through by doing what we’re supposed to do: making cold calls to form new relationships, and calling on our customers to maintain existing relationships. Every day after I take my little boy to school, I go out to our potential and existing customers to leave a sample of toilet tissue, three-fold paper towels, three different garbage can liners and custom-made literature—in a nice paper bag with a handle on it!

Tim Kopp owns Ohio Valley Supply & Maintenance Co.

Page 12

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

September, 2011

CAMPUS DISTRICT ARTS Towards Hope & Restoration: Cleveland Photographers Respond

by James Wyman The Gallery at Trinity Commons is pleased to announce an exhibition of contemporary photography: Towards Hope & Restoration: Cleveland Photographers Respond (9/10/11 – 11/20/11).

Projection always hides a feeling you don’t want to look at. If you examine any negative trait you insist is present in another person, you will find that same trait hiding in yourself.

The more you deny this trait, the more strongly you will have to project it.

—Dr. Deepak Chopra “When it comes to photographs, we are all deconstructionists now. After thirty years of Derrida, Foucault, and Baudrillard, anyone can confidently (if incorrectly) proclaim that photographs lie, manipulate, oppress; that they are ‘fictive constructs’ and ‘discourses of power;’ that they reveal only their own prejudices, not objective reality; that they express privilege, never truth. Yet more and more, it is upon these presumably meretricious, morally stained documents that we rely—not just to bring us news of the world, but to form our ethical and political consciousness and even, sometimes, to determine our actions.”

— Susie Linfield From the article “Capture the Moment: On the Uses and Misuses of Photojournalism,” Boston Review (April/May 2001) As popular as he is, I confess I don’t read Chopra. I have only a cursory familiarity with his thoughts and writing; I stumbled across the reference above while thinking about the phrase “Moving Beyond Violence and Despair.” (I was asked to curate an exhibition of contemporary photography with a Cleveland, Ohio-centric focus to address the theme for the Gallery @ Trinity Commons). What caught my eye—my sustained attention—in Chopra’s passage was the word “projection,” a term I am much more accustomed to thinking about relative to my usual reading fare of photo-literature, photographic criticism, visual perception, and art history. In example, and admittedly in my own unfashionable way, I was quick to reflect upon John Szarkowski’s exhibition and catalogue Mirrors and Windows: American Photography Since 1960, held at The

Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1978. Often criticized through our post-modern era for overly reductive simplicity, the interpretive strategies of thinking about the photographic image as a mirror of self, or as a window unto the world (and every permutation inbetween), I find useful here.

Historically predisposed, or perhaps handicapped depending on one’s point of view, when I think of “projection,” the first images I draw upon are similar to those illustrations in reference to the development of linear perspective from the Renaissance

then, to comprehend the thin artifact, especially when it shows people we’ll never know under duress? Is it always right to look? Is it ever all right to turn away? What do we learn, and can such lessons translate beyond passive beholding into political or existential acts?”

In reference to the state of photojournalism at the time and the decline of picture magazines during the 1950s, Szarkowski wrote in his above-mentioned catalogue, “Good photographers had long since known—whether or not they admitted it to their editors—that most issues of importance cannot be

Charles Mintz “Loli Kantor” from the series Precious Objects (2011) 31” x 17 “ inkjet print with scanned hand-written text on washi Text reads: “This is my mother’s handwritten letter, dated April 21, 1946. My mother Lola Kantor, died in childbirth with me. This is the only handwritten piece by my mother that I own.” forward—a mathematically correct system by which the 3-dimensional world is rendered onto a 2-dimensional surface. This arduously acquired skill of spatial interpretation—our western preoccupation with this rational order of space as “correct,” as “picture perfect,” or as things should be—is built into our cameras through centuries of scientific, artistic, and technological advancement. We don’t have to think about it or do the math. (That’s not necessarily a good thing.)

As photographers and presenters, what we often think about, and hopefully take responsibility for, is how we gather, create, and “project” information to the viewer. And perhaps the

exhibition Moving Beyond Violence and Despair will raise questions about the actions we take, or don’t take, in response to the image as perceived.

Frances Richard writes in “The Thin Artifact: On Photography and Suffering” which appeared in the December 13, 2010 edition of The Nation: “The question is how we do this. How to look into a flat smear of ink or emulsion? In his book-length essay Camera Lucida (1981), in which he discusses the notion of the punctum, [Roland] Barthes speaks of his desire to ‘turn the photograph over, to enter into the paper’s depth, to reach its other side.’ This is just what a photograph can’t allow. How,

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photographed.” Today, I think I understand what he meant. When it comes to the ideal of moving beyond violence and despair toward hope and restoration, I rather favor the work of looking within ourselves, through the “depth,” to reach that “other side”—and that is a process that the photographers such as Honey Lazar, Tracey Lind, Charles Mintz, and Garie Waltzer who are included in this exhibition, seek to explore and share.

If I accept Chopra’s message, then every person in my life who has ever ruffled my feathers has the potential to serve as a truthful mirror, a reflection of self deeper than appearance—or perhaps a window unto self. What do I do with this information? It stands to reason that what I do is a measure of how I interpret the image in the mirror—or the window—as the case may be. No matter the root of violence and despair—be it hatred, fear, loneliness, abuse, difference, greed, scarcity of material and resources, self-loathing— the precious movement toward hope and restoration begins as an inside job.

It is a great privilege and honor to have the opportunity to work with photographers such as Honey Lazar, Tracey Lind, Charles Mintz, and Garie Waltzer, whose work is included in the exhibition. I am also grateful for the opportunity to work with the wonderful staff of Trinity Cathedral, to partner with them in the effort of advancing common good and community engagement. This exhibition is just a small part of Trinity’s year-long initiative and programs surrounding the theme of “Moving Beyond Violence and Despair/ Toward Hope and Restoration.

The exhibition is curated by James Wyman, an internationally noted curator and specialist in contemporary photography. The exhibit which will be on display from September 10 – November 20, 2011. Photographers include Honey Lazar, Tracey Lind, Charles Mintz, and Garie Waltzer.

Gallery Hours: Wednesday:1 pm - 6 pm, Friday: 5pm - 9pm, Saturday: 10am - 3pm, Sunday:12pm - 5pm.

The Gallery @ Trinity Commons is located at: 2230 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44115. 216-771-3630 Parking is available for Trinity Commons off Prospect Ave.

September, 2011

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

Page 13

GREENING THE DISTRICT Trinity Cathedral’s Hunger Programs Receive $52,000 In Unclaimed Class Action Funds From Dworken And Bernstein

by April Miller Trinity Cathedral’s hunger programs received a big boost today in the form of a $52,000 check from the Northeast Ohio law firm Dworken & Bernstein Co. LPA. Representatives Howard Raab and Patrick Perotti from the law firm presented the check to The Very Rev. Tracey Lind at WKYC-TV 3 in Cleveland. The funds were part of more than $2 million dollars distributed today to numerous charities and nonprofits through the Ohio Lawyers Give Back initiative.

The “Give Back” effort, founded by lawyers at Dworken & Bernstein, a law firm with Cleveland and Painesville offices, takes unclaimed funds from class-action lawsuits and redirects them to charitable groups. Partner Patrick J. Perotti and his firm are known for their support of cy pres, a legal doctrine, and had again included a “cy pres” clause in the settlement of two major class actions involving consumer claims. Cy pres means that money which a defendant commits for the settlement of a class action is not returned to the defendant if class members cannot be found, and instead is directed to charities and nonprofits.

“This very generous donation will allow us to continue and to grow our vital hunger programs,” said Trinity’s Dean Tracey Lind. “Hunger continues to be a systemic problem in our downtown neighborhood and feeding the hungry is central to the cathedral’s mission.”

The mission of Trinity Cathedral is to proclaim in word and action God’s justice, love and mercy for all creation.

The congregation supports two hunger programs: A Place at the Table and the recently launched Blessings in a Backpack.

Founded in 1983 to serve its most vulnerable neighbors, A Place at the Table is now the only program in the downtown area to provide a hot nutritious meal to walk-ins on Sundays. The

program relies on volunteer cooks and servers from Trinity and other congregations and organizations. Most of the produce used in the program is raised by volunteers in the Trinity Cathedral/ Charlie Comella Urban Farm, located only a few blocks away at Cedar and East 35th Street.

In January 2011, Trinity launched Blessings in a Backpack, an initiative benefitting its neighboring MarionSterling Elementary School. All of the children at Marion-Sterling depend on the school for breakfast and lunch throughout the week but often go hungry at other times. Blessings in a Backpack ensures that at least some of these families have nutritious meals on weekends. Each Friday, children are given backpacks filled with healthy food (enough to feed a family of four) and nutritional information to promote health and wellness.

Taken together, A Place at the Table and Blessings in a Backpack are at the heart of Trinity’s commitment to fighting hunger and poverty in its urban neighborhood.

Along with Dean Lind, also in attendance from Trinity Cathedral were: David Posteraro, Jr. Warden of the Cathedral Vestry; Wendy Wilson Walker, chair of Trinity’s Neighborhood Outreach initiatives; and David A. Welshhans, Director of Stewardship and Development.

About Trinity Cathedral: Trinity Cathedral, the Episcopal Church in downtown Cleveland, invites participation from people of all faiths, races, nationalities and walks of life. For more information on Trinity Cathedral and its programs, please call 216-771-3630 or visit www.trinitycleveland.org. Trinity Cathedral is located at 2230 Euclid Avenue in downtown Cleveland. About Dworken & Bernstein: Dworken & Bernstein Co., L.P.A. is the largest law firm in Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula Counties, Ohio with additional offices in downtown Cleveland. Serving the

community for over 50 years, Dworken & Bernstein and its 25 lawyers and staff of 65 offers a full range of legal services for businesses, individuals, and families. For more information, visit www. dworkenlaw.com. The firm’s Ohio Lawyers Give Back initiative to date

has directed more than $22.5 million dollars to organizations that help others. For more information, visit www. ohiolawyersgiveback.org.

April Miller is the Communications Manager for Trinity Episcopal Cathedral.

Acts Of Promise Grassroots Grants Deadline September 15th

by Tom O’Brien Acts of Promise is now accepting applications by grassroots groups working with youth in the Central neighborhood. This new grassroots grant program is The Sisters of Charity Foundation’s Cleveland Central Promise Neighborhood initiative. Applications are due on September 15th.

Grants are up to $3,000.

Projects must be initiated and implemented by members of the Central community. This includes residents, congregants, student parent organizations and other civic associations.

Any neighborhood-based group is eligible to apply, even if they are not an incorporated 501©(3) nonprofit organization.

If you or someone you know is interested in applying, please join us at a Grant Seeker Workshop on September 7th from 6 to 8 p.m. at Trinity Commons 2230 Euclid Avenue. Applications are available online at www.clevelandcentralpromiseneighborhood.org or www.neighborhoodgrants.org. You may also request an application or get further information by contacting Cynthia Lewis, Lisa-Jean Sylvia or Tom O’Brien at Neighborhood Connections 216.615.7582.

we are devoted to healing

all of god’s people Mercy Medical center, St. Vincent charit y Medical center, St. John Medical center 1, SiSterS of charit y foundation of canton, SiSterS of charit y foundation of cleVeland, early childhood reSource center, JoSeph’S hoMe, Building healthy coMMunitieS, catholic coMMunit y connection 2, light of heartS Villa 3, regina health center, independent phySician SolutionS 1

Owned jointly with University Hospitals, 2 Shared sponsorship with Catholic senior living,

education and charities , 3 Shared sponsorship with Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati

A Ministry of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine

sistersofcharityhealth.org Canton, Ohio • Cleveland, Ohio • South Carolina

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Page 14

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

September, 2011

DESIGNING THE DISTRICT

Cleveland Heaventrain Starts Cold-Truck Feeding

by Mike Crews The Cleveland Heaventrain started its first time ever cold-truck feeding on Saturday, July 30th, 2011 with 36 staff and 780 kids. If you’re not from the Campus District, you might find yourself asking, what is this Heaventrain?

And what is their point in coming to Cleveland? Well, the Cleveland Heaventrain was started about 31 years ago, when a young pastor named Phill Batten wanted to make a way for the children of the Central community to hear the gospel of Christ. They started off by busing kids all the way out to Willowlake Church of the Nazarene, which was costly gas-wise so, Pastor Phill decided to go mobile; starting a “church on wheels.” Which would soon be known as the Heaventrain.

31 years ago, when the “Willowlake Church on Wheels” was making its routes (they did 10 each saturday) a little boy named Alexander came on the Heaventrain and asked Pastor Phill about if there was a God then why was he letting his family go hungry...? Pastor Phill didn’t know what to say to this, so he told the little boy he wasn’t sure what to say.

Well that following Wednesday, Pastor Phill was having a bible study, I think, and he told the story of Alexander, and one of his friends gave him like 75 dollars worth of McDonald’s coupons (that was a week’s pay for him back then) telling him to pass these out discretely on Heaventrain and make sure Alexander got one.

So Pastor Phill passed them out discretely and when he got to Alexander he said, “You asked me a question last week that I was unable to answer.”

Alexander said “Yup!” Pastor Phill pulled out the last couple of coupons he had and gave them to him. Later when they were getting ready to leave, the boy’s mother came up to Pastor Phill with tears in her eyes, saying

Heaven Train Saturday Alexander had faith that God would bring food and she didn’t know what to say to him when nothing happened.

Pastor Phill said 3,000 years ago a man named Jesus died on the cross so that we can be saved...and in being saved, help our fellow man.

That was 31 years ago to this day, and for 31 years the Heaventrain has been proudly serving the Campus District and enriching lives for 3 generations. Heaventrain is known as the city’s “best kept secret” because if you’re not from these neighborhoods you’ll never know about it unless you have a chance walking down the street in Central one Saturday and you happen across this brightly colored blue bus with “Heaventrain” marked across the top.

Each of our staff at the Heaventrain are just regular people like you; you know? We don’t get paid for what we do and most of us do this on our off days, while we have to work two other jobs. We do this because we love interacting with the Central community and the love we get is phenomenal, you know what i mean? It’s where I’ve

met some of my best friends...

SO if you happen to be, say at community college, and you hear a train whistle, don’t panic! The world’s not ending! (At least, not yet any-

way!) Its a signal for the children and parents to wake up and come enjoy another service on the Heaventrain.

I invite all to come one Saturday, (although we don’t operate on the 1st Saturday of the month because of budget reasons) and you’ll see me on door duty or clipboard duty or passing out food...But keep in mind like i said we don’t get paid for what we do, we do it for the love of Christ. We’re just trying to do his will.

I am a recent graduate of East Technical High School and an excellent writer. During my high school career, I’ve written for local library writing contests and won, and I’ve participated in rigorous writing and English 4 A.P. I am very ambitious and will do anything for my people and friends. Everybody loves to be around me because of my bubbly personality, even when I’m down and not feeling too good I still manage to keep a smile and a warm heart.

Signposts

by Fred Seals Whether you call them “Words Of Wisdom,” or “Inspirational,” sometimes you see something in print that makes your day. Sometimes it helps you to figure out a solution to a situation that you have been wrestling with. Sometimes they just make you feel good.

Call it whatever you like they are not accidental. They are messages meant specially for you. They are messages from the powers that be.

I am a big believer that everything that happens to us, happens for a reason.

All coincidences are meaningful. I will be sharing with you some of my favorites.

THEY ARE SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT “Enjoy life. This is not a dress rehearsal.”

- Author Unknown Make the most of today. Translate your good intentions into actual deeds.

- Grenville Keizer “The young do not know enough to be prudent, and therefore they attempt the impossible -- and achieve it, generation after generation.”

- Pearl S. Buck

Compline: Finding Quiet At The Week’s End

by Sahra Harding Many of us often run on empty, stretching those last few miles of the day as much as possible, quickly eating, barely sleeping before entering the whirlwind again. You know better, and yet you continue the pace of go go go until the body says no no no, and holds you still just long enough to recover.

Our spiritual ancestors knew well this demand of work and our longing for rest. They gathered together to practice rest and renewal, because at first learning to be silent can take as much effort as making noise.

This fall, offer yourself a new way to live in the quiet. Trinity Cathedral will offer the community a weekly Sunday night prayer

service at 9:00 p.m. beginning October 2 for all those seeking a quiet place at the end of busy week. Compline is designed to encourage contemplation and reflection amidst a darkened space lit only by candles and the soft chanting.

This ancient practice, begun by the monastic tradition of the sixth century, invites us to return to our inner senses that are often overlooked by the daily push and pull of life. This gathering is informal, so come and go as you please. To find out more please visit our website at www.trinitycleveland.org.

“Come to the edge,” he said. They said: “We are afraid.” “Come to the edge,” he said. They came. He pushed them. And they flew...”

- Guillaume Apollinaire

Fred Seals has been a Cedar Central resident for three years, and is the Cedar Hi Rise LAC Vice President.

The Rev. Sahra Harding is a Priest at Trinity Cathedral. She is in charge of developing programs and fellowship for youth, college students, and young professionals in the Greater Cleveland area.

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September, 2011

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

Page 15

FAITH IN THE DISTRICT

Finally Back Home!!

by Khalilah Worley I am an organizer with Greater Cleveland Congregations, a new coalition of over 40 religious congregations and community organizations working together to make our region a more just and prosperous place.

I am a native of Cleveland. I grew up in what I had always known as “Brick City” -- the low income housing projects off 55th and Quincy. Growing up, brick city was a community with good neighbors who helped with gardening and sat on their porches and talked with each other. By the late eighties however, brick city had turned into a high crime area with drug dealers and users at every corner. Friends I played hide-and-seek or freeze tag with were now being handcuffed and sent off to juvenile detention or jail. I saw more police chases, heard more gun shots, and witnessed more fights than any child or adult should see in a lifetime. My bricks forever changed.

I never considered myself an activist. I just wanted to get out. I attended Martin Luther King Law and Public Service Magnet off 71st and Hough. I chose this school because of my interest in law and politics. I was excited to have a school I could choose because frankly, I was afraid of the education I might (or might not) get at my neighborhood high school. I had to catch two city buses to get to MLK, but I knew it

would be worth it.

Just 6 months after I arrived at MLK, the school board decided to shut it down due to budget cuts. We couldn’t let that happen. We marched downtown to the Board of Education and demanded that they keep MLK open. We were clear in our demands but willing to compromise, and we saved the school by agreeing to support its conversion into a combined middle school and high school. I should have been thrilled, but my excitement was diminished when I learned that while we had to march to keep our school open Mayor Michael White was spending millions of dollars to keep the Cleveland Browns name and color.

Now, I admit watching our team being hauled away in the middle of the night was tragic. However, it still hurt to see so much money spent on sports at the same time they were cutting educational opportunities for me and my classmates. At least it seemed that way to me at 15. I was mad.

I gained exposure to the world outside of brick city thanks to Friendly Inn Settlement House. The Executive Director Geraldine Burns took students on trips to historically black colleges and universities throughout the nation. On these trips I saw a black community much different from my own in brick city. At the HBCUs I visited, the students also lived in bricks. However, they

Khalilah Worley, Organizer with Greater Cleveland Congregations. had a purpose different than I had seen in my own neighborhood. I remember admiring them and mimicking them on the bus rides home.

I was hooked. I attended Fisk University in Nashville, TN, a school and a city I would have never known had it not been for those college trips. I majored in politics because I wanted to learn how to change the types of things I had seen growing up. The one time I could remember seeing my community come together was when Jesse Jackson came to the “bricks.” He came to announce he was running for president of the United States. I remember seeing everyone outside listening and watching. I wanted that type of prestige and impact even as a young child.

If powerful people came to the bricks then powerful people could come out of the bricks.

I spent 11 years figuring out how I could best make real the type of change I wanted to create – as a field organizer for political campaigns, as program director for a community development corporation, and as a director of a private school on the West Side of Chicago.

I came back to Cleveland because I want to take what I’ve learned and use it to transform the hometown I love.

I believe Greater Cleveland Congregations can be a vehicle to make that transformation happen. By bringing people together across the lines that have traditionally divided our county – religion, race, economics, and geography – we can build the power of organized people to push through the change we all know is necessary. We can make sure every child has an excellent education, we can prepare our citizens for jobs and create new ones, we can make sure everyone is healthy and has access to health care when needed, we can fix our criminal justice system, and we can make sure everyone has access to healthy, affordable, environmentally-friendly food. I am excited to be a part of the change that is coming to Greater Cleveland.

Khalilah Worley is an organizer for the Industrial Areas Foundation and will serve as a full-time organizer with Greater Cleveland Congregations.

Greater Cleveland Congregations: “Faith And Compassion In Action”

by Bruce Freeman, Trinity Cathedral’s Core Team Co-chair

In 2010, a partnership was formed of more than 40 diverse congregations and partner organizations in the Cleveland area to build power for social justice, uniting people across lines of race, class, religion and geography, strengthening the quality of life in our diverse neighborhoods. This effort is supported by the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF), the nation’s first and largest network of multi-faith coalitions with seven decades of successful organizing experience.

After our enthusiastic first organizing meeting in mid-2010 we began the carefully designed, methodical process of parish-based inquiry and relationship building. This early step was based on individual parish “oneon-one “and “house” meetings to find out “…what is the one thing you would change to make life in Greater Cleveland better for your family and your community?” Through this critical step, key issues and possible leaders were identified. Over 300 “house” meetings and hundreds of “one-onone” meetings within and between parishes, temples and mosques were held throughout the area. A preliminary list of 40 issues was the result, eventually pared down to 20 prime issues.

On April 7, 2011, the Greater Cleveland Congregations (GCC)

Greater Cleveland Congregations Founding Assembly, Masonic Auditorium, June 6, 2011.

Issues Convention was held at Park Synagogue. The 20 preliminary issues would be “voted” on by those present to select 5 key issues for focus in our first round of organizing. Trinity Cathedral, for example, elected to throw our support entirely to “Hunger“ as a key issue. Each participant had one vote by literally walking to the issue they supported. Intense lobbying was encouraged, and votes were changing in mid-stream, as participants saw the shifting voting patterns in real time.

After several rounds, the final 5 issues included Education, Jobs, Health Care, Criminal Justice, and Accessible Food.

In the final seconds, Trinity merged our “Hunger” votes with the “Environment” group to pull our issue to the top 5 in the final tally!

Our exciting Founding Assembly was held on June 6, 2011 at the Masonic Auditorium in Cleveland, with over 2,000 in attendance filling the hall, including over 200 from Trinity Cathedral. The evening included inspiring testimonials on the 5 issue

areas from local residents. Also, presentations by The Very Rev. Tracey Lind, Rabbi Joshua Caruso and Rev. Jawanza Colvin, as well as County Executive Edward Fitzgerald provided a “call to action” for all present.

Then, all congregations present took the stage individually to present their attendance count and confirm their commitment to the Greater Cleveland Congregations (GCC) initiative.

Over the past couple of months, each parish has been conducting an internal “me-search” to identify and meet with key parish individuals for the issue areas. This critical stage involves “one-on-one” and “house meetings,” similar to those conducted earlier, but with a focus on the particular 5 issue areas. Action Team Leaders in each parish are coordinating this step. The focus is now on building a parish-based issue constituency, developing our expertise and deepening our passions. It’s a relationship-building step, an essential step in building citizen-based power within a community.

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The next step this Fall will be to begin the careful research on each issue and to come up with specific, immediate and concrete proposals that are feasible, and rooted in our passions.

This will lead to GCC Action Teams proposing specific issue campaigns, and, after vetting, having them presented at a GCC Delegate Assembly for action.

You’re invited to get involved at any step in the process. As they say “… you can get on board the bus at any stop.”

To get involved or for more information: Greater Cleveland Congregations, 2386 Unwin Road, Cleveland, 44104, 216-431-7656 http:// greaterclevelandcongregations.org/ Join the Civic Commons GCC conversations at http://theciviccommons. com/issues/greater-cleveland-congregations. All 5 GCC issues have separate “conversations” you can join.

See what Trinity Cathedral is doing with Greater Cleveland Congregations at http://trinitycleveland.org/ And, of course, we’re on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/ pages/Greater-Cleveland-Congregations/215171348507745

Bruce Freeman is a member of Trinity Cathedral, Downtown Cleveland and Co-chair of Trinity Cathedral’s involvement in Greater Cleveland Congregations (GCC) along with Janet Pearce, and The Rev. Canon Will Mebane.

The Campus District Observer Volume 1, Issue 2

Page 16

September, 2011

CAMPUS DISTRICT DATES

by Betsy Voinovich Campus District Dates is our print calendar. Events for this page are chosen from the calendar of events on our home page at: http://campusdistrictobserver. com. On the right side of the homepage is a calendar that you can click on, and see the next week’s events below. You can submit your events online by clicking on the “Submit” button .

August through September 18, 2011 Take a Hike! Downtown Cleveland Walking Tours Tours of Canal Basin Park, Playhouse Square, Historic Warehouse District and Historic Gateway District For more information and to register, go to: www.historicgatweay.org or call 216 771 1994.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Trinity Block Party 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM This block party is to welcome new and returning CSU students to the area. The event will include food, live music, raffles and games. All CSU students are welcome to attend and should check out our facebook page to rsvp.

Location: Parking lot of Trinity Commons 2230 Euclid Ave

August 30, 2011

Mayor Frank G. Jackson presents “Cleveland Beats & Eats” 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Cleveland’s tastiest summer festival series Featuring Cleveland’s mobile food trucks and live music each week!

Musical Guests: Noel Quintana and the Latin Crew. Cleveland Beats & Eats is a program of Art in Everything!, arts and culture initiative of Mayor Frank G. Jackson.

Northwest quadrant of Cleveland’s Public Square Sponsored by the Cleveland Airport System.

CSU Volleyball vs. Akron 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM For tickets, contact: Carrie Neville Manager of Marketing & Ticket Operations Cleveland State Athletics Phone: (216) 687-5440 Location: Woodling Gym

Thursday, September 1, 2011 CSU Alumni Affairs Open House 12:00 AM - 2:00 PM Location: AC 104, Main Campus

North Union Farmers Market at CSU 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Local Farmers will unveil their fresh grown produce, dairy and meat products, honey, and maple syrup. Bakers will present delicious breads and pastries, and artisan food producers will feature items such as cheese, jellies, pasta and more.

Live music makes this occasion fun and festive.

Stop by for lunch prepared by a local restaurant! Catch the FREE Green Trolley on Euclid Ave. North Union Farmers Market is accepting SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) Cards at the Cleveland State University Market. Recipients may bring their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards to the �Market Information� table at the farmers market and obtain tokens which may be used to purchase fresh, local vegetables, fruits, dairy products, meat products and much more. This year, North Union is pleased to participate in the EBT Incentive Program of the ClevelandCuyahoga County Food Policy Coalition. Customers who spend $5 or more will receive an additional $5 to spend at the market on EBT eligible items and can receive this incentive each day they visit the market.

Location: Located in front of the Music and Communications Building on Euclid Avenue between E. 18th and E. 21st Streets on the Cleveland State Campus

Friday, September 2, 2011

CSU Women’s Soccer vs. Bowling Green 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM For tickets, contact: Carrie Neville Manager of Marketing & Ticket Operations Cleveland State Athletics Phone: (216) 687-5440 Location: Krenzler Field

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Acts of Promise Grantseeker Orientations 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Learn more about applying for an Acts of Promise Small Grant. Grants available up to $3000 for youth-led groups, neighborhood groups, faith-based organizations, and other civic associations that are interested in improving the lives of neighborhood youth and children in the Central neighborhood.

Location: Trinity Commons 2230 Euclid Avenue

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Promise Neighborhood Connections Grantseeker Extra Help Session 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Learn more about applying for an Promise Neighborhood Connections Acts of Promise Grant. Grants up to $3000 for neighborhood groups in Central to support youth and build community. The application deadline is Thursday, September 15th at 5pm. For more information, please visit www.clevelandpromiseneighborhood. org or email ActsofPromise@neighborhoodgrants.org.

Location: Woodland Branch Cleveland Public Library 5806 Woodland Avenue

Saturday, September 10 and Sunday September 11, 2011

Bike Cleveland - Strategic Planning Summit Over two September days, bicycle advocates from NE Ohio will come together as a community of committed stakeholders to ensure the future success of a new organization, Bike Cleveland. The summit participants will craft a winning strategy and concrete action plan to create an improved, safe, and enjoyable environment for all cyclists in the region. If you would like to be involved, contact Jacob Van Sickle: jacob@ bikecleveland.org or 216-429-1182 ext 107.

Location: Windows on the River at the Powerhouse 2000 Sycamore St Cleveland, Ohio 44113

Friday, September 23 7:30 a.m.

Campus District, Inc. 2011 Annual Meeting

Who: Keynote Speaker – Lee Fisher, President and CEO of CEOs for Cities For more information, contact the Campus District at (216) 344 9200.

Where: Community Meeting Room at the Cleveland Plain Dealer

Wednesday, October 19

Downtown Cleveland Alliance’s 12 Annual Ruth Ratner Miller Award Luncheon Honoring Cleveland’s Most Distinguished Members 11:30 to 1:00 p.m.

Sammy’s Metropolitan Restaurant The Huntington Building 925 Euclid Avenue Downtown Cleveland

Oct 28, 2011

The BigBANG! Cleveland - A Vision for Social Innovation in Northeast Ohio Good Causes + Social Innovators + Pitch Stage = Maximum Social Impact at the CSU Student Center The BigBANG! Cleveland, a forum hosted by Cleveland Social Venture Partners, will convene investors, social entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders and philanthropies for a day-long opportunity to catalyze positive impact. The event on October 28, 2011 will feature eight innovative nonprofits chosen through CSVP’s investment cycle, and conference goers will experience the Pitch Stage, Innovation Exchange, Spark Lounge, Presenters’ Kiosks (collectively, Spark Experiences), and a highly interactive afternoon keynote workshop with MIT renowned author, Peter Senge. Entrepreneurial Food Trucks and the Civic Commons Booth give Cleveland a new way to experience a conference. For more information, visit http://bigbang.csvp.org/.

For Low Loan Rates and Great Financial Services, Join Your Campus District Credit Union!

The Arts In Me At Rainey Institute

by Rich Weiss The Rainey Institute is accepting registrations for its new The Arts In Me Program starting September 24th.

This program will be offered from its bright, new, beautiful building on E. 55th Street at Payne, and will provide group classes in music, dance, drama, visual arts, Capoeira (rhythmic martial art) and sewing for children. The Arts In Me Program provides private lessons in voice and just about every possible musical instrument.

Formerly the “Saturday” program—demand outgrew the one-day classes—The Arts In Me Program now also offers lessons, classes and activities Monday through Friday from 2:30-6:00 p.m. at 1705 E. 55th Street, the new home of the Rainey Institute.

Rainey Institute reaches over 850 children and young adults—many in the Campus District—each year through its after school, Saturday,

We serve anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Cuyahoga County and their family members.

and summer programming in music, dance, drama, sewing and visual art.

The institute is dedicated to positive change for Greater Cleveland’s youth and families through education and participation in the visual and performing arts.

Executive Director, Lee Lazar said, ““There are so many wonderful stories here, so many wonderful things happen that my only explanation is that Rainey is a blessed place” For more information or to register for Rainey Institute programs, please visit www.raineyinstitute.org or call 216.881.1766.

OFCCU is a full-service financial institution where our members are the owners.

Experience the credit union difference. Stop in soon!

$5 MEMBERSHIP COUPON

Redeem this coupon when you join OFCCU, and we will put the first $5.00 into your new Share Savings account.

Coupon valid through 10-31-11.

Offer good on qualifying new accounts only. Offer does not apply to accounts being reopened. If account is closed within the first year, $5.00 deposit is forfeited.

1800 Carnegie - across from the Wolstein Center Free parking | 216-241-1088 | ofccu.com Accounts in this Credit Union are insured up to $250,000 by American Share Insurance (ASI).

800-521-6342 www.americanshare.com THIS INSTITUTION IS NOT FEDERALLY INSURED. MEMBERS’ ACCOUNTS ARE NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY ANY GOVERNMENT OR GOVERNMENT-SPONSORED AGENCY.

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Equal Opportunity Lender