Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland Volume 6 Issue 1 by Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

FineLifestyles 2018 VOLUME 6 ISSUE 1 PRICELESS

CLEVELAND

LJI Collision Center: Michael Giarrizzo Sr., Lauren Angie & Jill Strauss Care About You and Your Car The Music Settlement: a Grand Tradition of Music Education Travel: Drinking Tours of Europe Featuring Local Shops & Services

UY N A SC R D A LE T AN E, L.I R O VEE L P E EX O R T GO B N,

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CLEVELAND

With Fine Lifestyles editor PATTI LONDON

Fine Lifestyles Magazine 2018 Volume 6 Issue 1 Publisher Marc London marc@finelifestylesmagazine.com Editor Patti London

ehind the name painted on the side of a work van or over the front door of a business in our city, is a story. We’ve made it our mission at Fine Lifestyles Magazine to tell these stories. There have been stories of people who gave up careers to follow their passions. We’ve highlighted innovators and artists, creatives of all stripes, who just want to spend their days making, whether it’s food or flower beds. A recurring theme we’ve noticed over the years of publishing this magazine is the story of families, working together and learning business lessons from the generations before them. Our cover features one such family, now engaging the talents and energy of their fourth generation in their successful collision repair business. LJI Collision Center’s story, like so many we’ve been privileged to tell, gives readers a chance to understand who’s behind the sign on the front of the buildings, a chance to get to know our neighbors a little better. The goal of relating these stories, of course, is to make shopping locally easier to do than, say, clicking buttons in your Amazon cart. Cleveland is a vibrant community with a growing economy. Keeping it strong will encourage others, including our own kids, to make this city home. Read the entertaining stories in this issue and join us in supporting fellow Clevelanders and their entrepreneurial efforts.

Staff Writers Dylan Yépez Mike Cabrerra Kristal Pettit Graphic Design and Layout Marlon Tussel Cover Art Vincent Pearson Photography Photography Vincent Pearson Photography Aaron Leyser Advertising Consultants Marlon Tussel 216.548.6292 marlon@finelifestylesmagazine.com Marc London 216.926.3449 marc@finelifestylesmagazine.com Bruce Mcallister 216.533.2936

Distribution: marc@finelifestylesmagazine.com Cover: LJI Collision: Michael Giarrizzo Sr., Lauren Angie & Jill Strauss Fine Lifestyles Cleveland

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We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, image or advertisement. All contents of FineLifestyles Inc, publications are copyrighted 2018 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to FineLifestyles Inc., where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of FineLifestyles Inc. or its writers. The name FineLifestyles Cleveland, its logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of FineLifestyles Inc. or the companies it represents. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavour to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

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CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS STYLE..................................................... 14 HEALTH & WELLNESS....................... 22 ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT..... 26 HOUSE & HOME.................................. 38 BUSINESS............................................. 78 WHEELS................................................80

FEATURES

The Music Settlement..............................10 Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Rooms.............. 18 North Union Farmers Markets.............26 Book Review...............................................34 Calendar of Events...................................36 COVER STORY:

LJI COLLISION CENTER.............38 All-City Arts 19th Annual Musical......42 Travel: International Libations.............58

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

40 Years of Fine Painting and Wallpaper Installation With Focus on Quality, Trust, Affordability and Service.

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Interior Painting Exterior Painting Wallpaper Water Damage Plaster & Drywall Repair • Staining and Finishing

Van Gunten Painting is staffed to cleanly and efficiently handle small and quite large projects for your home or place of business

“Special attention to preparation and detail.” Robert C. Van Gunten • 216-269-5880 • vanguntenpainting.com

Preserving Cleveland’s Musical Heritage by Patti London photos courtesy The Music Settlement

leveland’s development into the thriving city it is today is largely thanks to the role of the settlement movement at the turn of the twentieth century. The work of Jane Addams in founding Chicago’s HullHouse is a famous example of the efforts to alleviate poverty and help assimilate immigrants into American life at that time. Hull-House educated immigrants in history, art and literature, but also provided much needed social services like a daycare center, homeless shelter, and public kitchen and baths. Almeda Adams was Cleveland’s answer to Jane Addams. She and Adella Prentiss Hughes used the Fortnightly Music Club’s $1,000 donation to found the Cleveland Music School Settlement in 1912. Almeda Adams recruited the support of prominent Cleveland families, whose names you’re likely to recognize, like Blossom, Drury, Ferris, Otis, and Mather. Following the first settlement house in England, The Music Settlement was the fourth of its kind in the world. What began with 50 pupils has become one of the largest schools of its kind in the U.S., educating nearly 2,700 music students, including Tracy Chapman and “The Soloist,” Nathaniel Ayers. In many ways The Music Settlement has remained true to its original concept - to provide the best musical instruction at a modest price, to provide scholarships to talented but impoverished students, to foster the love of music, and become a factor in the musical life of Cleveland. Although the cost of music instruction and tuition for the preschool, day school and early childhood arts classes is quite reasonable, financial assistance is available to continue making music education accessible to all. Arthur Kane, head of the piano department, was drawn to his position with The Music Settlement because of the wide base of

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the community served by the educational opportunities. “The Cleveland Institute of Music is a wonderful conservatory for students planning for a career in music,” Arthur explains. “But The Music Settlement is for everyone else, whether you’re just learning an instrument for your own edification, or purely for the pleasure that being able to play music brings.” (Full disclosure: Arthur is my piano teacher.) Since 1938 The Music Settlement has been located at 11125 Magnolia Drive, once the home of Edmund S. Burke, who famously brought polo to Cleveland, and his wife, Kathleen Chisolm. During the

latter half of the twentieth century The Music Settlement purchased adjacent properties to form a historic campus in University Circle. Those properties include the Gries House, and the Kulas building, which houses the Center for Music Therapy, and the Griffiths Early Childhood building, containing the preschool, day school, and early childhood arts classes. A new campus is currently under construction at West 25th and Detroit and near that location on Detroit, the BOP STOP at The Music Settlement provides a live music and educational venue.

The campuses continue to be a substantial factor in the musical life of Cleveland, one of the original aspirations when The Music Settlement was founded. Exposing preschool-aged children to musical concepts has a profound effect on their brain development and long-term educational success. Providing music education for both children and adults opens opportunities for personal growth and potential academic scholarships. The Music Settlement was a pioneer in the area of music therapy which is an invaluable source of comfort and support to so many in our community. In these,

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and so many other ways, The Music Settlement sustains and nurtures the musical arts in Cleveland. To continue providing the arts education in the architecturally and historically significant buildings on the University Circle campus, The Music Settlement recently initiated a capital improvement fund raising effort. The buildings on campus are physical representatives of Cleveland’s history and each has a unique story to tell. Through this ambitious fundraising campaign, The Music Settlement is investing in capital needs and programming initiatives across both campuses, as well as increasing their ability to serve more students in need of financial aid.

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We continue to benefit from the philanthropy of the generation which founded Cleveland’s world-renowned cultural institutions, including The Music Settlement. It remains our responsibility to support our cultural heritage for the generations to come. The capital improvement of the buildings on The Music Settlement’s University Circle campus will be a small investment compared to the cultural and architectural heritage it will be preserving. If you are interested in learning more about TMS’s capital campaign, please contact their Office of Advancement at 216.231.5071. The Music Settlement 11125 Magnolia Drive, Cleveland 216.421.5806 themusicsettlement.org

Meet Your Personal Jeweler, Chad Verhoff

had Verhoff is passionate about both the art and the craft of jewelry design. Verhoff, a master goldsmith, opened Jackson Grey Jewelers in Chagrin Falls three and a half years ago, offering high quality, custom jewelry to the northeast Ohio community.

by Mike Cabrerra photos Aaron Leyser

“We do all of our work on-site,” Chad explains, “we don’t have any reason to ship our clients’ items out. The design, creation and repair is done by me, right here in my workshop. I want people to see that as it makes us unique compared to other jewelry stores.”

Visitors will find the Jackson Grey showroom intimate, rather than overwhelming. Verhoff deliberately arranged the space to showcase his creations, while also giving customers a clear view of his workshop. Upon entering the shop, visitors are likely to find him at the bench, apron on, hard at work.

Chad emphasizes that the personal touch is what sets Jackson Grey Jewelers apart. “We want to be their personal jeweler: where they come to purchase jewelry, but also to have their jewelry repaired and restored. There are very few shops that can provide all of these services under one roof. We also feel that clients find it harder than ever to find a jeweler that Chad Verhoff

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services all types of jewelry, whether it’s a watch battery, ring sizing or replacing an earring post,” Chad adds. “We have clients that come in and repeatedly say we just didn’t know where to bring this to be repaired.” Verhoff has the ability to redesign existing pieces of jewelry to better reflect the current taste of the owner. He can take client-owned gemstones and create designs to showcase them, or work with the client’s ideas and obtain the necessary materials to fit the design. Verhoff finds a 3D printer to be a useful tool for making custom molds of his designs, although no modern technology can replace his 28 years of education, apprenticeships and experience. “The craft of jewelry design and repair has really diminished over the years,” he explains. “It’s an old-world skill that can’t be learned in a textbook or by a computer program.” With the ability to purchase jewelry from anywhere, one thing Jackson Grey Jewelers strives to do is find artists that specialize in crafting unique designs and not mass manufactured pieces. Chad has special skill in restoring antique jewelry. “It is really an art,” he says. “Not too many people do it any more. You really have to understand how the pieces are constructed and the different

materials that were used in order to do it properly. And with so many families moving to the Chagrin Valley area, we’d like them to know where they can find a trusted jeweler.” Jackson Grey Jewelers offers ready-made jewelry in a variety of price ranges and styles, from formal to whimsical. Jackson Grey showcases their own pieces as well as other local and national artists, whose work Chad admires. Customers will not find identical pieces elsewhere. Jackson Grey Jewelers is conveniently located at 516 East Washington Street, Chagrin Falls. Store hours are Monday & Friday 10-5; Tuesday & Wednesday 10 - 5:30; Thursday 10 - 7; Saturday 10 - 4. Like Jackson Grey Jewelers on Facebook for special events and to see interesting pieces Chad Verhoff is creating. Stop in or call for a private consultation. FIND THE PERFECT JEWELRY FOR YOU

Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

Jackson Grey Jewelers 516 East Washington Street Chagrin Falls 440.247.5600 jacksongreyjewelers.com

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Exceeding the Standard in the Cleaning and Care of Your Clothing by Dylan YĂŠpez photos Aaron Leyser

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

ropping off and picking up the dry-cleaning are tedious errands you’ll want to cross off your to-do list. Let the professionals at London Cleaners pick up and deliver year round.

Alex is a third-generation custom tailor, who spent years making and altering garments. Thirty years ago, he decided to channel his thorough understanding of fabrics and clothing into the processes that keep them clean.

“We’ll Take It From Here” is the London Cleaners’ motto—and these full-service dry cleaners stick to it. London Cleaners recently celebrated their 50 year anniversary. When Alex Shvartshteyn purchased the company in 1984 he transformed it into a 100 percent door-todoor dry-cleaning service that can handle any type of garment and serves Northeast Ohio, from Chardon to Avon Lake and into northern Akron and Medina.

Through its Signature Service, London Cleaners gives custom and designer garments the exceptional attention to detail they require, at every stage of processing. As Ohio’s only certified couture-level dry cleaner by America’s Best Cleaners, London Cleaners is the company that high-end retailers trust and recommend.

“We’re the only company that does exclusively door-to-door, and we’ve perfected the service,” Alex says. “It’s more efficient. There’s no minimum. There’s no extra charge, just regular drycleaning charges.” Customers can schedule regular twiceweekly service to have London Cleaners routinely stop by their homes or offices, or they can simply call, or email, on an asneeded basis. Nobody needs to be home, so the service is completely hands-off and convenient. Beyond convenience, though, London Cleaners maintains a level of drycleaning service attainable only through decades of experience.

“It’s the understanding of the garments and the understanding of the fabrics,” Alex explains. “I know how the garments are constructed and how the fabrics are made.” Terri Brown, London Cleaners’ plant manager, is certified in bridal gown cleaning and preservation. She inspects all specialty garments and wedding gowns upon their receipt and encourages customers to share any concerns and/or special requests with her. She ensures that no detail is excluded from London Cleaners’ certified museum-quality wedding gown preservation process, during which sterile gloves are used to package the gown into a specially designed preservation case. Then

detailed instructions for storage are provided to the customer. America’s Best Cleaners, an independent organization that measures London Cleaners against the highest standards in the industry, has recognized London Cleaners’ service since 2004. “We maintain much higher standards than most of the industry for the processing of the garments and their presentation to the clients,” Alex assures. London Cleaners uses a new, environmentally friendly cleaning process, which not only is more efficient but also cleans the garments better than conventional methods. For all your dry-cleaning and laundry needs, let the experts at London Cleaners take the guesswork—and the legwork— out of garment care. Visit londoncleaners. com to explore the services offered, and call 800.832.1222 to get started today.

London Cleaners 800.832.1222 440.283.0200 londoncleaners.com

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

The One Not-to-Miss Happening in Cleveland this Summer (Besides “Hamilton”) by Patti London photos Marc London

popular exhibit since its inaugural show in 2015. When the Broad made 90,000 tickets available online ahead of the show, the $25 passes sold out in under three hours.

The Broad Museum in Los Angeles called the Kusama retrospective its most

The Cleveland Museum of Art is one of the six museums in North America hosting the survey of Yayoi Kusama’s work. The iconic artist’s work encompasses paintings, vibrant sculptural forms, and, of course, her magical Infinity Mirror Rooms. Her work has a special attraction, perhaps because it has the power to emotionally transport the viewer through simple sensory experience.

he Hirshhorn Museum in Washington D.C. called it “one of 2017’s essential art experiences.” The exhibit Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors was in D.C. for eleven weeks, during which time the Hirschhorn’s membership rose from 150 to more than 10,000. As the retrospective celebrating the sixty-five-year career of Yayoi Kusama travels to each of the six cities on its two-year tour, it is generating the kind of hype usually reserved only for “Hamilton.”

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

The exhibit travels to Cleveland on July 7th and is here until Sept 30th. Tickets are available to members of the museum April 9-13 and to the general public beginning April 16th. Tickets will be $30 for adults and $15 for children 6-17, free for children five and under. Due to the high demand, tickets will be nontransferable and nonrefundable. Six of the twenty Infinity Mirror Rooms Kusama built beginning in 1965 are included in the touring retrospective. She constructed her closet-sized rooms initially out of simple materials, stuffed cloth polka-dotted figures replicated

infinitely in the mirrored walls. Her later rooms, built since 2007 take advantage of LED lights, black glass and video projections, but all of her rooms feature mirrors. We were fortunate to snag online tickets to the exhibit when it opened at the Hirschhorn in Washington D.C. Our son and his husband were living in Capital Hill last spring so it was the perfect excuse for a visit. A blizzard was descending on Cleveland but those tickets were so hard to come by, we braved the potential hazards and hopped on the highway. I kept the fact that the tour was coming to Cleveland to myself until we were safely waiting in line to go inside the

museum. Glad I made a full disclosure at that point because one of the Infinity Room attendants mentioned the fact after asking where we were from. By that time, my husband had caught the Kusamamania and was happy to see the show twice. The exhibit began with Kusamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fabric covered soft sculptures in organic groupings. Her paintings, including several from her most recent series My Eternal Soul which have never been shown in the US, and the short films of several of her performance art pieces were interspersed between the Infinity Mirror Rooms to allow the flow of visitors to regroup. Short lines formed to enter

each room as the time spent in each was limited to roughly 30 seconds and the number of people who can enter was limited to two to three people. The lines moved steadily and gave visitors an opportunity to process the different immersive experiences. The exhibit is ready-made for sharing on social media, so striking are the images and the sense that this moment of being in Kusamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creative universe must be shared with others. Standing in the infinite spaces feels lonely and totally connected, simultaneously. For the final room, Kusama also asks for our participation. Visitors are given a sheet of colored circle stickers and led

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into the Obliteration Room, completely painted white, including all furniture, floors and walls. We’re asked to place our dots throughout the room, with those of all the previous visitors, to obliterate the whiteness and fill the room with communal color and life. Yayoi Kusama’s work is indistinguishable from her personal narrative. She has struggled with mental illness since a child and uses art as her therapy. She was a very public figure in New York City during the ‘60s, staging politicallycharged anti-war performance art. She began making her infinity rooms during this period as well but suffered from a breakdown and moved back to Japan in 1973. In Japan, she continued to paint and create sculpture and dark collages, which are also well represented in the retrospective. In 2016 Kusama created an infinity room for which she is particularly renowned, “All the Eternal Love I Have for the Pumpkins.” The pumpkins are a recurring theme in her work, but these are exceptionally wonderful, reflected infinitely around your ankles. Although Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors won’t be here until July 7th you’ll want to be certain to get your tickets in April. We are so looking forward to seeing it again and maybe I can find some reason that I have to be in Atlanta next winter so I can see the exhibit at its final stop of the tour at the High Museum - it’s that good.

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A Healthier Treatment for Your Child’s ADHD Symptoms by Kristal Pettit

photos Vincent Pearson Photography & courtesy Chagrin Brain Training

ttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic brain disorder, the symptoms of which include inattention and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity which interfere with daily functioning or development, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. While some inattention and hyperactivity are within the normal range of human behaviors, people with ADHD experience an inability to focus or excessive movement or talkativeness which is more severe and occurs more frequently, thus interfering with their ability to function.

ADHD can cause children to fall behind in school, struggle to maintain healthy relationships and exhibit antisocial behaviors. Treatments for ADHD in children and adolescents commonly include medication, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. The medications prescribed are stimulants which can have serious side effects, including

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raised blood pressure and heart rate and increased anxiety. Dr. David Granoff has helped many young patients experience relief from the symptoms of ADHD without the use of stimulant medications. Trained as a psychotherapist, including postdoctoral training in Gestalt and

Cognitive-Behavioral Psychology, Dr. Granoff became interested in neurofeedback sixteen years ago as a non-pharmacological treatment for children and adolescents who had been diagnosed with ADHD or Bipolar. “My research led me to NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback,” Dr. Granoff explains. “This is a non-invasive brain training system developed by the Zengar Institute in Canada. The results I began to see in my clients were noticeable and often significant and sometimes profound using NeurOptimal® neurofeedback.” Dr. Granoff is a Certified Master Trainer in NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback and a passionate advocate for this brain

training system. Dr. Granoff served for three years as the psychologist at VillaAngela St. Joseph High School and is currently a consulting psychologist at University School in Hunting Valley. His experience with children and adolescents in his practice has solidified his conviction that NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback is as effective as medication, without the side effects. Dr. Granoff points out that the American Pediatric Academy has equated neurofeedback with medication in terms of efficacy for resolving ADHD. NeurOptimal® neurofeedback is extremely safe. Basically, Dynamical Neurofeedback® provides your child’s brain with the information it needs to correct itself and function at its most optimal. NeurOptimal® simply enables the brain’s natural process of selfcorrection and requires no effort on the user’s part. Some brain training systems require the user to “interact” by playing games or solve puzzles during sessions. This additional level of interaction is unnecessary with the NeurOptimal® neurofeedback system. During a training session, your child can simply relax and enjoy. Visit Dr. Granoff’s website to read about the experiences of families who have seen such marked progress in the treatment of ADD/ADHD that they have been able to eliminate or significantly reduce their reliance on medication for their children. If your child is struggling with symptoms of inattention and/or hyperactivity which are negatively impacting his or her functioning, and you have concerns about the side effects of stimulants, contact Dr. Granoff’s office to schedule an appointment to discuss how neurofeedback might benefit your child.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHILD ADHD

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Chagrin Brain Training 21403 Chagrin Blvd, Suite 210 216.752.5346 ChagrinBrainTraining.com

Kathy Beech, Dr. David Granoff and Golnar Parry Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Decompression Therapy:

A Painless and Effective Alternative to Surgery by Dylan YĂŠpez photos Vincent Pearson Photography

Learn How To Fix Your Back Pain Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

ain, numbness or weakness in your lower back or a limb may be symptomatic of a problem often treated by surgery. For spinal conditions such as disc protrusions, pinched nerves or sciatica, surgery is a double whammy: it costs tens of thousands of dollars, and often fails to correct the ailment. These spinal conditions, however, can frequently be addressed through non-invasive spinal decompression therapy. Decompression therapy is a nonsurgical alternative treatment that is effective and painless. In fact, research places the effectiveness of this therapy between 86 and 93 percent; surgery, on the other hand, yields an estimated success rate of between 20

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and 50 percent â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and it costs about onetenth the price of surgery. Dr. John Livingston first began using spinal decompression therapy for his patients with spinal disc problems 15 years ago. The treatment was so successful that Dr. Livingston continues to use it to treat a variety of spinal issues in the back and neck, such as disc protrusions, herniations, and bulges, as well as conditions including pinched nerves and sciatica. Dr. Livingston is a third-generation chiropractic physician who has been in practice for 24 years. He and his partners at Livingston Chiropractic Center take

a holistic approach to health care, to identify and address the causes of pain, rather than masking the symptoms. Beyond cost and efficacy, decompression therapy provides a plethora of benefits over surgical alternatives like trimming the affected disc or cutting open the spine to remove the disc. Decompression therapy is simple, easy, and even relaxing. The therapy requires the patient to lie horizontally on the tablelike decompression machine, while it provides gentle, intermittent, angled traction to the affected area of the spine. This gentle traction separates the vertebrae around the protruded disc, creating a vacuum-like effect that draws

the disc away from the spinal nerve and back where it belongs. “It’s quick and easy,” Dr. Livingston says. “A lot of people actually fall asleep.” This therapy is noninvasive, painless, and gradual in nature. It incrementally moves the disc back into place over four to eight weeks of treatment, depending on how significant the protrusion is. “Much like orthodontics moves the teeth slowly into place with time and pressure,” Dr. Livingston explains, “decompression therapy moves the discs slowly with time and pressure.” Because spinal decompression therapy is painless, it doesn’t involve cortisone injections or any other dangerous or addictive medications. Patients also experience significantly shorter recovery times than those following surgery. Dr. John Livingston

therapy with adjunctive treatments, which help to keep the disc in the right place, and nutritional counseling to promote his patients’ recovery and overall health. “That’s almost as important as the treatment itself,” Dr. Livingston explains. If you experience pain, numbness, or weakness in your back or neck, or pain traveling down your arms or legs, this may indicate a problem that can be addressed through spinal decompression therapy. For more information, visit jkldc. com, or call 440.528.0005. Livingston Chiropractic Center is located at 25111 Miles Road, Suite D, near the intersection of Miles and Richmond roads in Warrensville Heights. Livingston Chiropractic Center 25111 Miles Road, Suite D 440.528.0005 drjklii@hotmail.com jkldc.com

Dr. Livingston administers decompression

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It Doesn’t Get Any Fresher Than This by Patti London photos courtesy Fine Lifestyles

easonal cooking is a matter of good taste. Produce which is in season when it’s picked and not transported thousands of miles to your local grocery chain, simply tastes better and is at the height of its nutritional value. Shopping at the farmers markets makes it easier to know what is in season and to tailor your weekly menus around the harvests. Whether it’s 15 degrees outside or a balmy day in August, Cleveland can find fresh organic, sustainable produce, eggs and meat from our local farms at the North Union Farmers Markets. At Shaker Square, on Cleveland’s east side or west at Crocker Park, the farmers markets are open year round. Shaker Square Farmers Market has been in operation since 1995. It was Donita Anderson’s

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vision, as a biologist and trained chef, which brought the market to her hungry neighbors. Many years of painstaking research and watching the New York and California market systems for inspiration, lead to the successful relationships between farmers and food consumers here in Cleveland. It was not an easy project but the efforts of so many leaders and volunteers have been rewarded. The seven markets now operated by North Union Farmers Market are bustling throughout the week during the summer, delighting cooks and supporting innumerable small farms.The American Farmland Trust has awarded the North Union Farmers Market the honor of being in the Top 20 farmers markets in the US.

A distinguishing feature of the North Union Farmers Market is its producersonly certification. An on-site inspection of each farm is conducted to ensure that the produce sold at the market is actually produced on that farm. While Cleveland’s West Side Market is a local institution, it is not committed to the same philosophy. When you buy cheese at the Shaker Square market, you know the cheese was made on the farm which is selling it. Shaker’s outdoor market is open every Saturday 8 am until noon, from April 7 December 22, 2018, then it moves back indoors. Crocker Park’s outdoor market summer hours are Saturdays from 9 - 1 pm. In June you can expect to find a wide variety of produce. You’ll have to wait

until July for most berries and in August you’ll see brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and the first of the squash. There is so much produce in the summer season, the North Union Farmers Market opens five other markets, two on Sundays at Legacy Village and in Chagrin Falls. The Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals and Playhouse Square host midweek markets beginning in June. Check the North Union Farmers Market website for days and specific locations. Several fund raisers are held annually in support of the North Union Farmers Market and the Garlic Festival has become an annual family affair. This year’s Garlic Festival is being held on August 25th and 26th at Shaker Square.

Cleveland is a food town. We are in close proximity to some of the richest farmland in the country. Many of our restaurants are at the forefront of farm-to-table menus, often citing the specific source of their chicken or beef. To take advantage of preparing the best from Ohio farms in our own kitchens there is a North Union Farmers Market near you. Learn what’s in season now. Find out what constitutes sustainable agriculture. The more we know about the food we ingest, the healthier our choices will be.

North Union Farmers Market northunionfarmersmarket.org

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Traditional Dishes Elevated to Extraordinary

ook & Hoof may sound like a seafood and steak place, but don’t be fooled. Imagine the kind of dishes you grew up with - pork chops, lasagna, short ribs - then envision those dishes elevated to new heights using modern culinary techniques and creative ingredients. Now you have a better idea of the dishes that await you at Hook & Hoof. Located in historic downtown Willoughby, Hook & Hoof has seen terrific success over the past year since its opening last spring. Chaz Bloom and Hunter Toth knew they had a unique concept for their restaurant, the idea of elevating the familiar, but finding the right niche still entailed some risk. Fortunately for Chaz and Hunter, and especially for the area food scene, the concept has garnered plenty of appreciative diners in Northeast Ohio. “The first year has met all expectations,”

by Patti London photos Aaron Leyser

Chaz agreed. “We knew we were taking a risk with a concept that hasn’t been done here, but it was well worth it.” It’s still tough getting a table in the intimate restaurant. We visited on a Monday evening and found it pleasantly busy. The larger dining table in the front was filled with a convivial group, several diners were seated at the sumptuous dark wood bar, and a couple were engaged in deep conversation at the chef’s table - a ledge of seating looking through a large expanse of glass into the kitchen. Our table was adjacent to the chef’s table seating, romantically lit with edison bulbs against the wall of exposed brick running the length of the restaurant. Mallory, our server, made us feel immediately welcome, indicating the parts of the menu with an extensive bourbon list and the hand crafted cocktails. Chaz explained that they had just launched their spring cocktail menu. “We use seasonal ingredients to the

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland ABOVE: Chaz Bloom and Hunter Toth

View From The Chef’s Table

extent that they’re available and at their peak flavors, but we aren’t locked into the notion of using strictly local, seasonal ingredients,” says Chaz. For instance, the butcher’s cut that night was an extremely popular elk chop from New Zealand. Hunter found that the more locally sourced elk was too gamy, whereas the New Zealand elk has a dry aged beef flavor. Hunter developed the perfect brine recipe used on the elk. “We really take good care of our meat,” he explains. “Three of our entrees, including our most popular, the tomahawk pork chop, are brined so they become ultra-moist and tender, but with really quick cook times.” The elk chop is on our radar for our next visit. This time we indulged in a bowl of cauliflower turmeric soup made with coconut milk for the perfect density, and a plate of pumpkin lasagna and roasted broccolini for me, lamb’s belly meatballs and short rib stuffed shells for my

husband. The meal was heavenly, yet had the recognizable flavors of dishes we’ve grown up with. Chaz and Hunter have found a successful formula between the delightful drink specialties, the shining menu selections and a truly beautiful space to enjoy them in. With Hook & Hoof’s creative kitchen and five children between them, all under the age of eight, Hunter and Chaz have enough to keep them busy for the foreseeable future. Visit Hook & Hoof for a memorable evening of dining, but reservations at this hot restaurant are highly recommended.

RESERVE YOUR TABLE Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page Hook & Hoof 4125 Erie St, Willoughby 440.571.5312 hookandhoofdtw.com

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Healthy Chocolate for Your Guilt-free Enjoyment by Kristal Pettit photos Aaron Leyser

hat could be better than finding a line of chocolates which are actually good for you? How about finding them conveniently available at your local Heinens and other local markets and coffee shops? Joel Fink, chocolatier and owner of Fantasy Candies, has recently teamed up with Heinens to make his Blue Planet line of healthful chocolates available at all 19 Heinens locations throughout greater Cleveland. “You may find me at your local Heinens offering samples and answering questions,” Joel says. “We’re into education at Fantasy Candies because the more customers understand about the process of chocolate making

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

and the ingredients we use, the more they’ll appreciate what they’re enjoying.” Joel invites customers to call the store or email him with any questions about his products. The new line of Blue Planet chocolates expands on the concept of the healthier dark chocolates which Joel has been developing for his Sweet Dreams 72 and Sweet Truth lines of chocolate creations. This dark chocolate contains 72% cocoa solids. It is never bitter, but is extremely dense in flavonoid antioxidants. Joel’s Sweet Dreams 72 chocolate bark includes a variety of healthy fruit and nut flavor selections, from cashew and cinnamon pecan to orange peel

ABOVE: Joel Fink

and blueberry. The Sweet Truth dark chocolate bark uses the same level of healthy dark chocolate but adds chia seeds and a probiotic, GanedenBC30®. The added ingredients support digestive and immune health, increasing the health benefits and decreasing the guilt of consumption. Blue Planet chocolates include the 72% cocoa solids, and the chia seeds and probiotic in some flavors, but Joel has added super foods to the ingredient list, such as baobab, pomegranate and cinnamon. The Cleveland Clinic has endorsed the Blue Planet chocolates with its Go!Healthy designation, which you’ll see throughout Heinens for foods which constitute smart nutritional choices.

Although the Blue Planet chocolates will be located in the candy aisle, they could just as easily be placed in the wellness section. Blue Planet chocolates are good for your health, but they’re also good for your conscience. Joel makes certain that his chocolate is sustainably sourced for the health of the planet. Joel has come a long way from his first candy shop in Beachwood Mall. The Candy Company was filled with buy-bythe-pound sweet treats for the not-sohealth conscious. Joel started Fantasy Candies at the Greens of Lyndhurst 28 years ago. In 2012, his business outgrew that space so he moved to his current

location a little further east on Mayfield Road - and added a wine bar. Joel’s chocolate-covered imagination is on display throughout his shop. Truffles, fudge, chocolate dipped fruit line the shelves of his display cases. The warm smell of chocolate being made suffuses the shop, delighting the senses. “I wake up every day and just love coming to work,” Joel enthuses. His staff is also particularly warm and welcoming as you walk in and prepared to guide you through the sweet offerings. The wine shop is browser-friendly in the front of the shop. Wine tastings are regularly scheduled events at Fantasy Candies. Like their Facebook page to

receive notices of upcoming wine tastings and chocolate pairings. The unique themes make every tasting an original occasion. Look for the Blue Planet chocolates in Heinens and other retail locations, or stop by Fantasy Candies and grab a healthy bottle of red wine, too.

LEARN MORE ABOUT BLUE PLANET Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

Fantasy Candies 5338 Mayfield Road, Lyndhurst 440.461.4511 fantasycandies.com blueplanetchocolate.com

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

The Original Cleveland-Style Pizza by Mike Cabrerra photos Aaron Leyser

leveland is a wonderful town for restaurants. We have farm to table kitchens, elegant special occasion dining, and more microbreweries than you can possibly sample. But sometimes you want a neighborhood place, tucked away somewhere, where the waitstaff is friendly, not formal and where the prices are just right. There won’t be any trendy lighting or fancy floral arrangements, just comfortable seating in a cozy atmosphere - and really delicious food.

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

That neighborhood joint is in Mentor and it’s called Mama Roberto’s. For the past 19 years Mama Roberto’s has made authentic Italian dining available in its Mentor neighborhood. People come from all over northeast Ohio to sample the ultimate Italian comfort food. The Roberto family has been in food business in Cleveland for 60 years. Proprietors Rick and Renee Rhein rely on many years of restaurant experience to provide a menu of casual dining in the

classic culinary tradition. Renee’s family has long manned stands at the historic West Side Market. Rick has wanted to own a pizza shop since childhood. “If you really have a passion for it, nothing beats this business,” Rick says. “The people you meet, the community, providing a good meal and watching families enjoy themselves is what keeps me happy,” he explains. “We’ve seen first dates at Mama Roberto’s which later turn into bridal showers here.”

Mama Roberto’s sizable portions of classic Italian fare bring diners back on a regular basis. The tasty antipasta and insalatas are followed by selections of pizzas, calzones and paninis. The calzones and pizzas are served steaming hot out of the stone pizza oven. The sweet dough is made daily just like it’s been made for generations. Mama Roberto’s makes their pizza sauce from scratch using Stanislaus tomatoes, the preferred ingredient in authentic Italian sauces. Their cheese is a blend of provolone and mozzarella for a flavorful accompaniment to the fresh pizza toppings and calzone fillings. The paninis are served with fries and come with a wide array of fillings, from a meatball sandwich to veal parmigiano, chicken marsala to a Chicago-style roast beef.

The pasta entrees are arranged by veal, chicken or seafood, or by Mama Roberto’s specialties. Mama Roberto’s marinara sauce is also prepared fresh daily just like Mama used to make it. Most of the pasta entrees are served with a tossed salad and their famous garlic balls. Look for Mama Roberta’s tortelloni and homemade ravioli under the specialties section, included with the eggplant parmigiano and baked penne florentine. All four of Rick and Renee’s kids work in the restaurant. “My daughter runs the dining room and our sons are cooking and making pizzas. They’re learning the basics of feeding the neighborhood good ingredients and large portions - no one goes home hungry,” Rick pronounces. “Just like in any Italian family, you eat and then eat again, then you take some home. People just want to relax and listen to the music, 50’s & 60’s are playing all day.”

“Everyone who comes in here feels comfortable, that’s the nature of a family restaurant,” Rick says with pride. Whenever you’re in the mood to relax and be comforted by a hearty, unpretentious meal, stop by Mama Roberto’s. They’re in the neighborhood.

SEE MORE OF MAMA ROBERTO’S Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

Mama Roberto’s 8658 Mentor Avenue, Mentor 440.205.8890 mamarobertos.com

Chuck, Rick, Renee, Catie, Paddy and Mike Rhein Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Swallow the News with a Healthy Dose of Optimism

by Patti London

n case you’re tired of the bad news being broadcast everyday, here are several books to assist you with your attitude lift. Two of the books attempt similar arguments which support a historical context to the time period we live in to show that it isn’t so bad, and the third is a personal search for the happy side of life. Keeping them on your bedside table to dip into a little every morning or before bed may be enough to inoculate you from the day’s dour headlines. On the bookshelves for only a month, Steven Pinker’s latest is getting lots of buzz. Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress points out that we’re actually living in a much better world than it’s been for previous generations of humankind. Pinker is a professor of psychology at Harvard and his book is a data driven acknowledgment that health, prosperity, safety, peace, knowledge, and happiness are all at higher levels than ever, and not just in Western societies. Bill Gates has called it his “new favorite book of all time.” Gregg Easterbrooks’ It’s Better Than It Looks: Reasons for Optimism in an Age of Fear is a similar look at the progress we’ve made to advance society in important areas. Disease, crime, discrimination, and most forms of pollution are in longterm decline, while longevity and education are improving for most people on the planet. Easterbrooks is an editor for The Atlantic and has an engaging writing style, although without the academic chops that Pinker has. I don’t advise reading these first two books at the same time. Although published seven years ago, Laurence Shorter’s The Optimist: One Man’s Search for the Brighter Side of Life is still a suitable guide for coping with the sense of impending doom foisted on us by the daily news. Shorter’s book is considerably lighter fare than Pinker’s and Easterbrook’s books but still enjoyable and at times, quite funny. His yearlong quest to find keys to happiness is instructive and reading about it is immeasurably healthier than spending that time in front of CNN. Instead of giving up the news altogether, read these optimismflavored books to put all the news in perspective. You owe it to your sanity.

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events

CLEVELAND

APRIL / MAY / JUNE

THROUGH JUNE 10 Simon Denny: Founderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Paradox Museum of Contemporary Art

MAY 2 - 27 Alladin the Musical KeyBank State Theater Playhouse Square

APRIL 4 - 15 42nd Cleveland International Film Festival Tower City Cinemas

MAY 11 -13 Indians v. KC Royals Progressive Field

APRIL 14 - MAY 6 The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Allen Theatre Cleveland Play House

MAY 31 Cracker Music Box Supper Club

APRIL 27 - 29 Bring It On 19th Annual CMSD All-City Musical Ohio Theatre Playhouse Square

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JUNE 6 Jack White Jacobs Pavillion at Nautica

JUNE 7 - 9 AHA! Festival Arts and Humanities Alive Cleveland State University

JUNE 20 Dead and Company Blossom Music Center

JUNE 9 Parade the Circle Wade Oval

JUNE 23 Solstice 2018 Cleveland Museum of Art

JUNE 13 First Wade Oval Wednesday Wade Oval

JUNE 28 - 29 Tri-C Jazz Fest Playhouse Square

JUNE 16 Shania Twain Quicken Loans Arena

JUNE 30 Black Violin Cain Park

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

In the Event of an Accident, You and Your Car Will Be Cared For by Kristal Pettit photos Vincent Pearson Photography and courtesy LJI Collision Center

o one plans to get into an accident. But when it happens, wouldn’t you like to have a plan? Even a small rear-end bump can upend your day, but a largerscale accident can be traumatizing. LJI Collision Center wants to be part of your contingency plan for that unwanted event, in hopes that you won’t ever actually need them. LJI Collision provides service 24 hours a day. That means if you’re involved in an accident after business hours, there’s someone who will answer your call. Not a recording and not an answering service, a real human who works for LJI Collision Center and understands what you’re experiencing. Owners and sisters, Lauren Angie and Jill Strauss, grew up in the body shop business. “We learned the importance of being there for the customer from our dad, Michael Giarrizzo, Sr.” Lauren explains. “Accidents don’t always happen during regular office hours. When

someone calls we know they’re in need and we know how to help them. First of all, are you okay? Do you need a tow? Do you need us to bring you a rental car?” Lauren and Jill own and operate both locations with their management team. LJI Collision Center in Cleveland Heights is located at 1640 Lee Road, on the same property where their father built an auto repair shop in 1960. “The business actually began in 1946 with my grandfather’s gas station,” says Lauren. “My dad built a collision repair shop in 1960 at Mayfield and Lee which my sister, Jill, and I recently reopened and remodeled with the latest equipment in auto repair. I used to take the bus from Brush High School in 1975 to my dad’s shop to work with him,” Lauren continues. Lauren and Jill opened the Orange Village location at Chagrin Boulevard, right off of I-271, in 2010. Jill describes the environmentally safe equipment used in both of LJI’s shops, “These are stateof-the-art facilities. Paint booths at both

Left: Michael Giarrizzo Sr., Lauren Angie and Jill Strauss

locations are eco-friendly with Italian equipment which uses a water-borne paint, not solvent. Even those particles are recaptured so it keeps the atmosphere healthier.” Part of LJI’s culture is cleanliness. The shop itself is spotless and the cars coming in for repairs are cleaned and detailed thoroughly, both before and after the repair process. Vacuum-assisted equipment ensures all sanding particles are collected so that each workspace is thoroughly clean before the next car comes in. “It’s a cleaner environment for the technicians to work in and it’s part of the culture to keep the space clean,” Jill explains. “In our environment that kind of cleanliness is a standard,” Lauren says. “That’s how we were taught. It’s a business advantage and non-negotiable.” Mike iGiarrizzo, Sr. now enjoys his role as business advisor to the third and fourth generations operating LJI Collision Center. “My dad came home from WWII and opened a gas station,” Mike Sr.

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

reminisces. “I was 22 when we opened the first repair shop. Cars in those days weren’t as mechanically sound as they are today. I got more satisfaction doing the body work. It’s instant gratification when you’re finished and see the results.”

maintaining a reputation for excellence is inherent in the way he talks about his life’s work.

Mike Sr., Lauren and Jill are especially proud of the quality of the repairs performed at LJI. “With the current technology and equipment we can make a repair which is impossible to detect,” Mike Sr. says. “Cars today are made structurally to protect the passengers, to absorb and not resist, damage. The design is really phenomenal, so much safer.”

Mike Sr. summarizes the business philosophy he taught his daughters and is teaching his grandsons: “We never stop delivering, never stop trying. Treat each customer as if they were our first customer. Every day my concern is making sure our employees leave satisfied and the customers are happy. When customers walk in the door - help them. We don’t know what they need, it doesn’t matter, just help them. A customer could need something as little as air in their tires.”

Mike Sr. has a great deal of pride in the legacy he has helped create. In listening to Mike Sr.’s stories and business experiences, it’s easy to imagine what his daughters must have heard as they were growing up. The passion for providing excellent service to his customers and

Lauren and Jill have created a sophisticated but warm atmosphere at the LJI Collision Center. Knowing that their customers are going through a difficult time after experiencing an accident, they are intent on providing a welcoming and relaxing space. The customer lounge area

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

is quite calming and comfortable. An art boutique gives it a homelike quality. Owned and operated by women who have been steeped in a customer service culture, there’s a comfort level at LJI that you won’t find in many repair shops. “We manage this stressful situation from the moment we take the phone call until the customer has their car returned,” Lauren emphasizes. “It’s our goal to make our customers comfortable when they’re in the midst of a frightening situation.” LJI Collision Center repairs all makes and models and works with all insurance companies. Online reviews reveal that LJI has earned the confidence of many customers. This is a powerful reflection of the pride Jill, Lauren, their father, and now their sons take in their family business. Mike Sr. says his girls got up early to wash their cars before driving them to school. “The cars represent us,” he remembers telling them. “It’s what we stand for, so

The Next Generation of LJI Collision Center: Victor, Dan and Jeff

we have to take care of them. When we build a new building - it’s the same thing - we want it to look the same in ten years, like brand new. We invite people into our business so we keep it up. Keep everything up, even yourself,” says the man who looks half the age he must be. “I have the same passion I had when I started 60 years ago, and my daughters and grandsons carry that same emotion with our business, LJI Collision Center.”

HOW CAN LJI COLLISION HELP YOU? Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

LJI Collision Center 27100 Chagrin Boulevard, Orange Village 1640 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights 216.364.7100 216.932.7100 ljicollisioncenter.com

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

These Kids are Bringing Their All to “Bring It On” by Patti London photos Mark Horning

on’t ever accuse Kimberly Sias of choosing the easy route. This spring the All-City Arts Program Director has set out to challenge her musical arts students with a production of “Bring It On: the Musical.” As the All-City Arts Program’s 19th annual musical production, this show promises not only to entertain the audience but present an enlightening educational opportunity for the students.

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

You might be more familiar with “Bring It On” from the movie, released in 2000 with a young Kirsten Dunst. But in 2011 the musical production was staged, featuring music and lyrics co-written by none other than Lin Manuel-Miranda. The production received good reviews when it opened on Broadway in 2012 and was nominated for two Tony awards for Best Musical and Best Choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler (yes, also of “Hamilton” fame.)

“This will be the first time in my nine years with the program that the kids are able to exclusively play student roles, rather than adults,” Kimberly explains. “The challenges of playing competitive cheerleaders is uniquely suited for high school students, with all the teenage angst and competitiveness and drama of those high school years.” In fact, about half of the Broadway cast were cheerleaders and not musical

theater performers, due to the physically challenging aspects of the roles. The more important facets of the musical for Kimberly, as an educator, are the themes of diversity and inclusion that emerge. “This production is very heavy from a socially emotional standpoint,” Kimberly observes. “It allows the kids to open up to cultures which might not be the ones they know.” The students have had the opportunity to learn something of the Cleveland Metropolitan School District’s history over the course of preparing for this show. They’ve studied the shifting demographics of the past 75 years and were surprised to know that Glenville used to be approximately 50% African

American and 50% Jewish - not that long ago. The students have thought about how local politics and behind-thescenes factors can influence something as fundamental as a child’s educational experience. Characters these students are playing in the musical discover similar histories that are fundamental to an understanding of where their communities have been, and where they’re headed. “It’s a different kind of deep dive than the musicals the kids have done before,” Kimberly points out. “Other shows like “Rent,” “Memphis” and “Kiss Me Kate” required a socio-political education to help the kids understand what was happening at the time in which the

musicals were set. “Bring It On” is relevant to the world they’re inhabiting, here and now.” The cast is made up of 46 students, pared down from an original 140 at the first set of auditions. “This year we have such a multi-cultural cast, which really is exciting. The premise of the show requires it,” Kimberly enthuses. “We have a great base of students interested in this production, and it’s a solid representation of the proportion of the district’s population.” The All-City Arts Program receives support from a number of organizations, but The Human Fund has generously supported the All-City Arts through

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

its annual fundraising for the past 13 years. Besides the spring musical, the program attracts students to after-school programming throughout the year where they can practice their chosen art form. The 95% graduation rate and college enrollment statistics for the kids who have participated at least two years in the All-City Arts Program constitute solid evidence that the focus and motivation developed by arts education flows into the other areas of students’ lives. If you are interested in supporting the All-City Arts, the Human Fund is holding its annual summer benefit concert at the Beachland Ballroom on September 7th, featuring the kids from the All-City Arts program, Dumpstaphunk and a third

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

band yet to be announced. Of course, all proceeds benefit the All-City Arts program. For tickets call the Human Fund at 440.893.7529. Consider attending a performance of “Bring It On” if you want to be seriously entertained and amazed at the talent of our young neighbors. “Bring It On” is playing the weekend of April 27-29 for three performances at the Ohio Theater. Call Playhouse Square for tickets, 216.241.6000. You’ll leave the theater wondering just where you’ll see these kids next - touring through Cleveland in a professional production, on a screen in your local theater, or on Broadway. They are the proud future of our city.

Making Your Home Uniquely Yours by Kristal Pettit photos Vincent Pearson Photography and courtesy JP Compass

uilding or remodeling a home can be confusing and intimidating but it doesn’t need to be. Utilizing a creative company which has perfected the design-build process, is the key step. John Park had a vision when he began JP Compass out of his basement in 2006 - to use his 29 years of construction experience to build a company with integrity and quality craftsmanship. Thanks to the contributions of his four sons, JP Compass has been all of that and much more. John’s likeminded son, Jacob, lived and breathed construction while growing up.

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

“We started the company together, and did 2.4 million dollars of business in the first 14 months,” John recalls. Jacob’s brother, Joseph, was working out west at an architectural firm, when he agreed to return to Cleveland and help the growing company. Joseph’s architectural design talents have allowed the creative side of JP Compass to flourish. Brother James, a graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Art, was using his design skills for Moen before joining the family business in design and marketing. The fourth brother, Jonathan Park, then joined JP Compass as the business manager, bringing his experience with startup companies. “We’ve been around for many years and now we’ll be around for generations to

come so we can be there for our clients now and in the future,” John assures. Having design and construction professionals simultaneously working with clients to develop their vision adds to the overall efficiency of the projects and sets JP Compass apart from other design or construction companies. JP Compass employs architects and interior designers, what John calls “the right-brainers of the operation.” His project managers and skilled artisans are the left-brained construction management side. “Having the design and construction under one roof gives you the benefits of form and function, hitting the sweet spot between beauty and the budget,” John says.

Design Team: Kevin Cieszykowski, Audrey Smosarski, Jordan Williams, James Park and Joseph Park

JP Compass wants their clients to enjoy building their new home or remodeling their existing one. “Transforming your living space is exciting and fun,” business manager Jonathan explains. “Our goal is to work closely with the homeowners to create a space that is uniquely theirs, not a cookie cutter home. The homeowners’ budget sets a parameter to work within, but our team can exercise a great deal of creativity within that limit.” From the onset of each project, the design team is armed with the results of a proprietary survey, Houzz ideabooks and Pinterest Boards that help them determine the client’s style personality and preferences. That information, coupled with the early utilization of 3D visualization and project budgeting, allows them to cater to the client’s unique tastes and infuse their aesthetic into each 3D representation all while keeping them informed of budget. “One of the most exciting aspects of our job is the opportunity to work with clients with such different personal styles and functional requirements. Their creative influence

impacts each design and, with our guidance, leads to some really beautiful, one-of-a-kind work,” says Joseph. The design team utilizes 3D visualization to great effect during the design phase. While other firms may use 3D at the end of the process, JP Compass uses 3D models so the client can see their ideas early on. For instance, a homeowner may have selected a specific slab of granite for their countertops. The designers take that particular piece of granite and place it in the 3D model of the kitchen so the client can actually visualize the end result, and make further choices with the best information available. “At the same time we’re doing the design work, we bring in subcontractors and send a project manager out to see the site - that way any unexpected costs are minimized,” Jonathan says. “Our subcontractors and engineers have a lot of good feedback on mechanical and structural issues. Especially with older homes, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC can be significant factors which are more

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

effectively addressed during the design phase. Other construction companies are more likely to find these impediments to the project after the design is already completed, adding to the homeowners’ costs and requiring delays while the project waits for a re-design.” “From the first day the client walks in, the process is under one roof. This makes the communication much more fluid between the design intention and the construction execution,” John Park reiterates.

The Digitally Rendered Design

Obviously, this convergence of design and construction is working for the clients of JP Compass. “Our customers would be our best sales people,” John agrees. The number of testimonials on the JP Compass website are a testament to the success of their design-build process, the artistry of their design and the quality of their construction.

LEARN MORE ABOUT JP COMPASS

Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

JP Compass 7948 Mayfield Rd, Chesterland 440.635.0500 johnpark@jpcompass.com jpcompass.com

The Final Construction

Jonathan, Joseph, Jacob, James and John Park

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The Winning Team Approach

to Customer Service by Kristal Pettit photos courtesy Exscape Designs

he open secret of any successful company is a steady stream of happy customers. To create the conditions which lead to satisfied customers, and to those customers telling others about their satisfaction, studies and statistics show that the real secret is happy employees.

members and promoted existing ones into positions of leadership. “The focus on the people on our team is part of the culture and values of this company,” Dysert explains.

“The vision of Exscape Designs is to serve our customers and their interests and team building is what will According to a recent piece in Forbes magazine, ultimately drive that vision forward.” - Bill Dysert companies which excel in delivering exceptional customer service have one-and-a-half times as many engaged employees as companies which aren’t known for their customer service. The article summarized the steps recommended for developing engaged employees, such as offering meaningful employee development, making training a part of the culture, and showing employees that they are valued.

Bill Dysert, president and CEO of Exscape Designs, spent the quieter winter season focused on his team of employees. Exscape Designs recruited additional team

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Exscape Designs added new faces during the off-season, including Chuck Grasser and Amber Bosma. Grasser, a registered landscape architect, was recruited to run the Design/Build operations. The team of highly skilled landscape designers and project managers will work with Grasser to deliver high quality landscaping projects at a good value through the company’s streamlined Design/ Build process. Exscape Designs’ clients benefit from having both the design and construction facets of the project working as one team.

Bill Dysert

Bosma will be working in human resources and accounting to enhance the employee experience at Exscape Designs. She’ll also be one of the friendly voices you’ll hear over the phone, providing superior customer service as well as HR expertise. Making sure that employees feel that they have a career with opportunities for advancement is a value which Exscape Designs knows creates happier, more engaged employees - which leads to better customer service. When team members feel they have a career, they’ll provide great customer experiences knowing that the company’s success is part of their long-term success. Team leader Matthew Montgomery was recently promoted into the Design/Build management team. Montgomery will be meeting with new or existing customers who want to improve their outside

living space. Whether you’re seeking a beautiful garden waterscape, a renovated patio, or a brand new outdoor kitchen, Montgomery and his team will take the time to fully understand your vision and realistically assess your property’s potential. Montgomery and the Design/ Build team are especially excited to share new technology and developments in outdoor lighting installations with their clients this year. On the personal property management side, Steve Strmen was promoted to a leadership role on the landscape maintenance team. Exscape Designs offers clients ongoing landscape maintenance plans and services. “Although a small portion of our business is high-end boutique commercial work, 95% of our operation is devoted to residential clients. Exscape Designs functions as their personal property manager,” Dysert explains. Beth

Hammonds, another new face, will be an account manager working with Strmen and their landscape maintenance clients. Clearly the emphasis on core values and the development of a skilled team of highly-trained professionals has paid off for this customer-focused company. Contact them by phone or through their website to begin a relationship that could increase the beauty and value of your home and enhance the quality of your life for many years to come.

SEE MORE FROM EXSCAPE DESIGNS Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

Exscape Designs 10121 Kinsman Road, Novelty 440.729.0011 exscapedesigns.com

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Protect Your Home from the Elements with Dependable Gutters by Kristal Pettit photos Aaron Leyser and courtesy Great Lakes Gutters

ntil your gutters aren’t doing their job, you hardly notice them. Once they fail to redirect the precipitation off and away from your home, they’ll have your full attention. Not much concerns a homeowner like water where it isn’t supposed to be, dripping from the ceiling or leaking in through the foundation walls. Before you face such an emergency, talk with one of the professionals at Great Lakes Gutters.

before any damage is done. “You can’t tell how bad the gutters are until you get up there and inspect the pitch which affects the flow of water to the downspouts,” explains Matt Farmwald, owner of Great Lakes Gutters. “It’s important to inspect the nail fasteners, too, because they deteriorate over time. Our inspections are always free,” Matt adds. Locally owned and operated, they keep their customers’ costs low because they aren’t a franchise or part of a larger, national corporation.

For over twenty years Great Lakes Gutters has served customers throughout Northeast Ohio. They can inspect your gutters and find potential problem areas,

Great Lakes Gutters offers two sizes of seamless aluminum gutters to accommodate the different needs of area homes. Standard 5 inch seamless

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aluminum gutters with 2x3 inch downspouts work for most homes, but 6 inch gutters with slightly larger downspouts work more efficiently to redirect water on larger homes with more roof surface area. Knowing that Ohio’s climate hits extremes of heat and cold, with plenty forms of precipitation added in for good measure, Great Lakes Gutters offers only the highest quality materials to withstand the harsh seasons. Even the hidden screw fasteners are of premium quality to maintain their strength and durability, unlike the older nail fasteners. If you’ve had enough of climbing up and down a ladder to clean your gutters in the brisk fall weather, or if you’re tired of paying someone else to do that, save your back and your money with maintenance free gutters. “We’ve been installing different gutter guarding systems over the last 20 years, and we’re satisfied that only two systems are worth the investment to install. They’ve been tested in all climates and protect the roof shingles better than any other system on the market,” Matt explains. “The mesh products which you see advertised eventually get clogged with dirt and debris. This is not a factor with the two systems we install.” That’s why Great Lakes Gutters offers lengthy warranties on each of the two systems: the Shur Flo system is guaranteed for 25 years and the Leaf Helmet system carries a lifetime warranty. The Shur Flo system can be attached to the fascia board and the front of your gutter for better structural strength and efficiency. It’s an attractive low profile installation which doesn’t void your roof warranty like other gutter guard systems because it doesn’t penetrate the shingles of your home’s roof. Great Lakes Gutters’ experienced installation crew can attach the Shur Flo system to your home’s existing gutters or to new ones.

Matt Farmwald

these systems and on any other gutterrelated question you might have. Great Lakes Gutters is an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating, which Matt is very proud of. The company is fully licensed, bonded and insured. Make informed decisions about your gutter options by calling them today.

The Leaf Helmet system will keep all dirt, leaves, shingle grit and debris clear from your gutters. This system comes standard with a larger downspout for the ultimate efficiency in water distribution even in LEARN ABOUT FUNCTIONAL GUTTERS the heaviest of rains. Heavy snows won’t Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page affect this durable system, either. Only available as a new installation, the Leaf Helmet system comes in a range of 32 colors. Great Lakes Gutters Great Lakes Gutters offers free consultations and estimates on both of

440.479.2117 greatlakesguttersllc.com

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Clear the Air, Literally by Mike Cabrerra photos Aaron Leyser and courtesy Fine Lifestyles

Pam Fraser, Patrick Fraser and Denise Nowak

nce you’ve seen the dust motes in a shaft of sunlight, you have some idea of the airborne debris floating through your home. We recently realized the extent of dust accumulating in our home when we purchased a high-gloss ebony piano. We found a way to keep our piano from collecting so much dust, and our lungs from having to process all that debris as well, with one phone call to Mighty Ducts, the air duct cleaning specialists. Mighty Ducts has been improving the air quality of homes since 1994. Since then they’ve cleaned the ductwork systems of

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more than 45,000 homes. They arrived at our home with a set of hoses and a high-powered vacuum set up in our driveway and our air quality hasn’t been the same since. They were fully prepared to deal with a home built more than 75 years ago, even knowing that some major renovations had taken place in the intervening years. What they found was astounding. Seth and J.R., the duct-cleaning technicians who arrived at our home, were professional and knowledgeable. After noting the locations of each heating vent and air return, they set up their equipment to begin the cleaning process.

Without removing the paint-coated covers, they were able to blow the debris from each vent on the upper floors down to the furnace level where it was collected and efficiently removed. Luckily they were accustomed to houses built in the middle of the last century, so the construction debris was not the surprise to them that it was to us. We were glad to hear that they had seen ducts with more rubble than ours. To our amazement, J.R. told us about a house on Lake Erie they’d recently worked in which had a basement below the basement with a fire place and a tunnel to the lake which was both a station on the Underground

Railroad and a stop for the transport of alcohol from Canada during Prohibition. Whatever was accruing in our heating ducts was vastly less historic. Seth and J.R. moved from vent to vent, blowing each area clean while the other vents were blocked with paper covers to isolate the vacuum suction for maximum cleaning power. Once all of the ductwork was cleared, Mighty Ducts cleaned the components of our furnace and air conditioning to kill mold, bacteria, dust mites and other allergens which may have been present. After approximately four hours, Seth and J.R. had removed the detritus of decades, rendering our heating and air conditioning

system vastly more efficient and the household atmosphere much healthier. Mighty Ducts responds to calls for routine duct cleaning but the same process is extremely effective in homes which have suffered fire or smoke damage. Mighty Ducts sanitizes and deodorizes the duct system with EPA-approved materials.

Call Mighty Ducts for an estimate to clear your home and your family’s respiratory systems from the accumulated dust of decades. You’ll notice the difference immediately.

LEARN HOW TO PROTECT YOUR DUCTS

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We have been amazed at the difference in our home’s air quality since having our ducts cleaned. That piano still shows a light layer of dust, however, it takes days to accumulate to a noticeable degree. When we think about the amount of dust we were breathing in prior to the duct cleaning, we are so relieved to be protecting our bodies from all those years of accumulated debris.

Dust and Debris in the Duct Before the Cleaning

Mighty Ducts 440.232.9450 mightyducts.com

The Duct After Cleaning

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Old World Craftsmanship for Your Stonework by Mike Cabrerra photos Aaron Leyser

ong before granite was trendy, long before HGTV popularized stone surfaces in kitchens, O’Brien Cut Stone was fabricating natural stone for use in residential and commercial buildings all over Cleveland. The company was founded in 1925 by the family patriarch, Lawrence O’Brien. At that time, during Cleveland’s great building boom, their work was mostly exterior. O’Brien’s handiwork can be found in landmarks all over Cleveland, including the Hope Memorial Bridge,

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Terminal Tower, Adelbert Hall on the campus of Case Western Reserve University, and the Clock Tower at University Hospitals. O’Brien’s stonework can also be found on the campuses of John Carroll University, Baldwin Wallace University, and Kent State University, to name just a few. Although O’Brien started out doing mostly commercial work, the company, now run by the fourth generation of O’Briens, does a mix of residential and commercial, interior and exterior work.

The company has expanded into two divisions: interior (granite, marble, quartz, soapstone, travertine) and exterior (limestone, sandstone, flagstone, blue stone and landscape products). While the mix of work has evolved over the years, the craftsmanship remains “old world.” Their “newest” skilled stone cutter has been with them for 15 years. The most senior? 35 years. At O’Brien, they do things by hand, which is rare in the industry, but results in tighter cuts and finer finishes. The Old World

Jayme O’Brien and Michelle Zupancic

quality is apparent when contrasted with any similar project using basic, massproduced stone. As you might expect in a long-time family business, the customer service is very hands-on. Staff members are happy to work with a client’s designer, or directly with homeowners. Customers select their own slabs of stone after viewing them personally, sometimes even in the outside yard, where the play of light reveals intricate graining and the unique patterns that make natural stone so appealing. When customers are interested in interior products, such as stone countertops, backsplashes or fireplace surrounds, the general process is the same. The team at O’Brien works closely with their customers to assess their goals,

plan the project, create a budget and a timeline. O’Brien’s pricing is all-inclusive, incorporating the planning, cutting, finishing, and installation. Outdoor projects might include walkways and steps, patios, retaining walls or outdoor kitchens. The same hands-on approach and attentive level of service is provided, regardless. Natural stone products such as granite, marble, and travertine, provide durable, classic surfaces that maintain their beauty over time and add value. The staff at O’Brien are knowledgeable about the best products for each possible use. They educate their customers to find the best match between functionality and esthetics. Stop in today and explore the many

natural stone options available at O’Brien Cut Stone. O’Brien Cut Stone is conveniently located at 19100 Miles Road in Cleveland. Showroom hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. No appointment is necessary. Visit the website for more information: obriencutstone.com. O’Brien is proud of its “Angie’s List Super Service Award” and is an A+ member of the Better Business Bureau.

TRANSFORM YOUR FAVORITE ROOM Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page O’Brien Cut Stone 19100 Miles Road, Cleveland 216.663.7800 obriencutstone.com

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A New Regard for International Libations by Patti London photos Marc London

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

hile the publishers of Fine Lifestyles Magazine encourage readers to drink locally, as well as responsibly, we know many Clevelanders are happily quaffing international brews and grape-based beverages. So we went on an assignment to discover the origins of two of Europe’s finest thirst quenchers. Someone had to do it. Veuve Clicquot, or “old widow” in French, is synonymous with champagne. The distinctive yellow label has earned an international following, but many are unaware of the house’s unique history. Madame Clicquot was only 27 years old in 1805 when she took over the business of her deceased husband, the son of the founder. She was not only one of the first modern businesswomen, she made champagne history by creating the first recorded vintage, or single harvest, champagne in the region. Madame Clicquot was innovative and daring, overcoming the continental embargo to ship 10,500 bottles of her champagne to Russia,

earning praise from Pushkin, Chekhov and Gogol. By 1816 Madame Clicquot had invented the first riddling table, which guarantees a crystal-clear wine, a process which continues to be used today. Madame Clicquot quickly conquered the sexism inherent in the era and industry to become known to her peers as “La Grande Dame” of Champagne. We made reservations for the private tour months before our vacation, I mean, our reporting assignment, was scheduled. The Veuve Clicquot cellars in Reims, France, are designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, located an hour and a half northeast of Paris. There are several tour options available and, according to their website, tours can now be booked online. Our tour began in a small vineyard on the Veuve Clicquot property with an informative introduction to grapes and the regions in France where they’re grown. The grapes used in Veuve Clicquot are actually grown in vineyards throughout the region, rather

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than in one centralized Veuve Clicquot vineyard. The yellow label champagne uses 400 different wines in the blend to ensure consistency of flavor and quality. We were next led into a small walledin garden where we practiced using our senses on various herbs and plants. It was obvious that some had much better senses of smell and taste than others on the tour. These skills were further put to the test in a small tasting room adjacent to the garden. After failing to identify any of the vaguely familiar aromas, except for mint, I had a new appreciation for the challenges inherent in becoming a sommelier. The actual cellars are located below the city of Reims in a maze of chalk mines which are at 55 degrees, the perfect temperature to store champagne. We were treated to a cheese and champagne tasting in the cellars after a short tour. We tasted four vintages, two white and two rosĂŠs, from 2008 and 1998. The tasting tour was edifying and entertaining. We now recognize the history and enormous care which goes into the processing of each bottle, rendering it even more delicious than before our tour. The following day we headed to Leuven, Belgium, to visit the Stella Artois brewery, a slightly different drinking experience. On arrival, we donned reflective safety vests and headed out to the brewery. The original location of the brewery, called the Brewery Den Hoorn, was just a short way down the river Vaart from the present location. It began brewing beer in 1366. Because Leuven was a college town, beer production became an indispensable part of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history. Apparently beer and college students have been inseparable for centuries. The Stella part of the Stella Artois name was added in 1928 when they brewed a seasonal Christmas beer named Stella which proved so popular that they began making it year round. The horn symbol is still found in the Stella Artois symbol, maintaining a link to its 800 year old origins. We learned these historical details in a small theater which was much warmer than it should have been. The fermentation process was taking place nearby and we were the recipients of its residual heat. The next stop on the tour was a hands-on

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educational lecture in a room overlooking the giant kettles of the brewery. While we learned about how barley and maize are processed in the malting and mashing stages before mort, the sugary leftover liquid, is boiled and hops is added, the kettles worked their brewing magic below us. The next stop had a view of the bottling plant from above. We learned that the brewery not only produced and bottled Stella Artois, but also Leffe and HoĂŤgaarden beers. The entire brewery was sparkling clean and the equipment very shiny. Once we arrived at the Stella Artois bar at the end of the tour, we understood that cleanliness is important through the entire process. We were given a lesson on cleaning those chalices so as to preserve the best flavor of the beer. Any string of bubbles rising from the bottom of the glass is evidence of an imperfectly clean chalice. The taste testing was conducted with fastidiously poured Stella Artois which was more delicious than any Stella weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve tasted before. The tours are given only on the weekends and we made reservations well in advance of our reporting assignment. We had read that the brewery entrance is difficult to locate, but we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have any trouble. We had a little trouble with the resulting beer buzz following the tour so we found a cafe on the square in downtown Leuven where we could indulge in french fries dipped in mayonnaise. This Belgian specialty was especially effective in soaking up the alcohol so we could safely continue our reporting from the continent.

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Freshen Your Home’s Interior

this

Spring

by Kristal Pettit photos Vincent Pearson Photography

sure way to enjoy this longawaited spring is to stroll through downtown Chagrin Falls. The flowers are in bloom and there is no shortage of shops to explore.

Janna emphasizes the unique nature of her business, “Our inventory is best described as boutique couture at an affordable price point.”

You’ll find Chestnut Hill Home, by Janna Lutz Interiors, located in the heart of Chagrin Falls. Their remodeled showroom showcases the latest trends in design, including an array of furnishings, lighting, drapery, local art and tabletop accessories for all tastes and budgets. Chestnut Hill Home was founded ten years ago by owner Janna Lutz, building on her 25 years as a designer.

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The store carries many accessory and furnishing lines which are exclusive to Chestnut Hill, including the modern masterpieces of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams and the private label upholstery line, Larren Grey. While Janna employs professional designers to assist her customers with their remodeling challenges, Chestnut Hill recently underwent its own remodeling. The new space is much more functional, with plenty of room to view the inventory and compare the expansive variety

of fabric samples. The professional designers on staff are there to assist each customer with the selection process, whether it’s to find that special gift or to plan an entire home remodel. They are up-to-date with the current trends and conversant with the most traditional styles. Chestnut Hill’s designers will work closely with you or your architect on your interior design concepts. Janna is experienced in translating your ideas into a space that reflects your personal taste and lifestyle. In creating a custom kitchen or bath, home office or theatre, fireplace or patio, you can trust the experience and knowledge of Chestnut Hill’s designers.

Their familiarity with all facets of the design process will alleviate any anxiety you may harbor about taking on these projects. To create a visually appealing setting in your home, Chestnut Hill carries an inventory of furnishings and décor to suit every style. Some of the furnishings you’ll find include the distinctive pieces of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, which aren’t available anywhere else in Greater Cleveland. Also included in Chestnut Hill’s exclusive inventory is the high-end styling of Larren Grey, a private label upholstery line sporting 400 different fabrics and buildyour-own customized chairs, sleeper sofas, and other pieces of nearly infinite variety. For the environmentally conscious, Chestnut Hill Home carries Cisco Brothers, a line out of Los Angeles, which utilizes beautifully styled, renewable fabrics. Every piece of furniture is made by local craftspeople, using sustainable materials and building methods to create furniture which is as healthy for you as it is for the planet. In addition to the furnishings, Chestnut Hill features many exclusive accessory lines. Don’t overlook the importance of accessorizing your interiors. Window treatments or lighting can completely alter the character of a room. If you happen to see an item in a design magazine or online, bring it in to Chestnut Hill Home and they’ll find it for you. Janna welcomes browsers, so come in even if you don’t have a specific item in mind or a design dilemma; it’s worth a trip just to get ideas. Experience spring in beautiful Chagrin Falls and stop by Chestnut Hill Home, located at 27 North Franklin Street. Shop from 10-6 Monday through Saturday.

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Chestnut Hill Home 27 North Franklin Street 440.247.6858 chestnuthillhomechagrin.com Janna Lutz Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Transform Your Home’s Exterior with Light

by Kristal Pettit photos Vincent Pearson Photography

ow that spring has arrived, it’s a great time to evaluate and update your outdoor lighting. House of Lights in Mayfield Heights has a wide range of styles from which to choose the lighting which best complements your home and landscaping.

Mark notes that once the weather warms his customers come in seeking outdoor lighting options and fans.

“Home owners notice the long-term effects of weather on their outdoor fixtures such as tarnishing and corroding, and look to replace and upgrade them this time of year,” - Mark.

House of Lights has been a “fixture” in the industry for over 50 years. According to owner Mark Dymidowski, a combination of selection, service, and stability is the key to its success.

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Dymidowski adds, “Fans are also a popular item once the weather warms, for both interior and exterior spaces”. Visit the shimmering 10,000-foot showroom on Mayfield Road and you’ll experience the area’s largest selection of

lighting options. For your exterior lighting needs, House of Lights stocks hanging lanterns to illuminate your front entryway and post lamps to brighten the route from driveway to front door. Wall lanterns cast a welcoming glow when placed to either side of the front door, or next to a side entrance, or even to enhance the look of a garage. Upgrading your exterior lighting is not only functional from a safety perspective, but adds an elegant effect to your home’s architectural style. Landscape lighting is yet another option

to consider when you’re upgrading your exterior lighting. Carefully placed landscape fixtures can enlighten your home’s exterior so you and your neighbors can enjoy the gardens even after the sun sets. Fans provide more than a welcome breeze inside your home. Mark points out that wet-rated ones can be installed in outdoor pergolas, porches, and deck areas so even a warm evening outside is comfortable. Bring photos of your home and your ideas to the showroom for professional input from Mark’s team of experienced designers. They’re trained to help customers determine appropriate sizing for fixtures in various spaces. They also help evaluate the specifics of how lighting

will function in that space. For example, lighting needs can differ depending on landscaping and the orientation of your home’s entrances. They understand how various lighting styles will fit into the overall exterior design of a customer’s home and can present a variety of options for a customer’s consideration. In addition to staff in the showroom, House of Lights employs lighting installers who will conveniently deliver and install lighting for customers. Dymidowski explains that House of Lights has an exceptionally large inventory of lights in stock. An onsite 10,000 square foot warehouse, in addition to the showroom, makes it possible for customers to leave with their fixtures,

rather than waiting for their order. You can shop online, via the company website, houseoflights.biz, or stop in and let Mark and his team of experts help you brighten your outdoor living spaces. The store is located at 5818 Mayfield Road, Mayfield Heights. Store hours are 10-6 Monday through Saturday, and 12-4 on Sunday. The store is also open on Thursdays until 8 p.m.

SHOP EXCLUSIVE PROMOTIONS

Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page House of Lights 5818 Mayfield Road, Mayfield Heights 440.449.3500 houseoflights.biz

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A Home Theater

for Your Viewing Pleasure by Kristal Pettit photos Aaron Leyser and Clint Buhler

or all of the film fanatics fantasizing about a home theater, Xtend Technologies are the professionals with the answers.

Xtend Technologies has been preparing for this high-tech revolution since its inception in 2001. Specializing in home theater, home automation, distributed audio, high-end 2-channel stereo, IT solutions, networking, and basically, all things audio/video, Xtend Technologies has built a showroom to facilitate explaining the answers to consumers’ technology questions. Owners Tony and Nick Fabrick invite you to their modern 6,500 square

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foot showroom to experience a demonstration. “Our showroom is designed with hands-on demonstration in mind. For us it’s about presenting people all the options at all price points,” Tony illustrates. “Our showroom is actually made up of twelve different showrooms, each configured as a comfortable room in one’s home,” he says. “Our staff is trained to demonstrate all the latest technologies in home theater.” The showrooms demonstrate how video equipment, projectors, screens and televisions can be integrated throughout your home. Television screens can be installed above fireplace mantles, imbedded in the master bath mirrors,

and even incorporated in an outdoor entertainment space. Home theaters are a very popular a way for friends and family to enjoy video media in all of its forms. Whether you’re remodeling an existing room or working with a builder to add a theater to your home, Xtend Technologies provides the perfect opportunity to experience the products and equipment in a home theater setting. The staff have the answers to questions you haven’t even considered yet regarding room size, seating options, wall sound treatment solutions, as just a few examples. A new sound format called Dolby ATMOS is a 3D object oriented sound format that can be heard in their showroom to

Tony and Nick Fabrick

truly appreciate its three-dimensional surround sound. Tony especially enjoys being able to sit down with a client and their architectural plans before a new build begins. “It’s critical if you’re building a custom home to discuss the possibilities for integrating a home theater with the latest equipment early on,” Tony explains. “That’s the best time to make installation of the technology seamless.” Even if you are incorporating a home theater into your current home, bring your plans to the showroom and find out how to make the most of your space. Before taking the short ride down I-77 to the showroom, Tony recommends that you establish a budget for the project you have in mind. “Just because you give us a number, doesn’t mean we’re going to spend all your money,” Tony promises. “We’re here to provide you value for your budget, which means finding the appropriate products for your home theater project. We have many products

from many different vendors, so we can find something right for you and right for your wallet.” Xtend Technologies has received high praise from customer reviews with respect to their process, professionalism, and product quality. Check out reviews and their recent projects on houzz.com/ pro/xtendav/xtend-technologies. Xtend Technologies is waiting to show you the audio/video technology you’ve been looking for. The showroom is open Tuesday through Friday from 10-7 and Saturday 10-4, open by appointment on Mondays. DISCOVER NEW TECHNOLOGY Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

Xtend Technologies 7981 Broadview Road, Broadview Heights 440.526.7500 xtendav.com

Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Utilize Your Outside Living Space to It’s Fullest by Mike Cabrerra photos Aaron Leyser & courtesy New Vista

It has been a very long winter here in Northeast Ohio. The little patches of green showing through the snow remind us that we have backyards and garden spaces and tempt us with visions of how we’re going to spend all summer outdoors. Time with family and friends is especially delightful when we can connect and relax in the balmy evenings of our warmer seasons. Brothers Matt and Mike Supler of New Vista Enterprises would like to help you with that vision of your outdoor entertaining space. Matt and Mike design and install stunning landscapes throughout Northeast Ohio. With degrees from Ohio State University in Landscape Design and Construction (Mike) and Horticulture (Matt), they

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bring both expertise and enthusiasm to every project. Mike founded New Vista Enterprises in 2000, after obtaining his degree, and working for a large landscape design firm. Later, Matt joined him, first as an employee and then as a partner. “Mike is the design and construction guy,” Matt explains, “And I’m the plant guy.” The first thing they do on a new engagement is to understand your goals for your outdoor spaces. Then they develop a conceptual design plan, working with existing plantings and structures to the extent that you wish to incorporate them. Show them your ideas from Pinterest and Houzz and they’ll work with you to transform your backyard space to a destination for your neighbors, friends and family.

“We really work in creative collaboration with our customers,” Mike says. “Every job is different. We have clients who like to experiment with new and different plantings and structural elements, and others who have a very specific vision of their space.” Mike and Matt enjoy the creativity that their work allows. They’ve worked with Land Studio on many public art installations in the area, in addition to their residential work. New Vista is a comprehensive landscape design and installation company. They perform all phases of the process inhouse, from the initial assessment and design phase, to installation of both plants and hardscape, as well as maintenance and upkeep. They utilize skilled craftspeople and tradespeople whose talents are essential. “We do a lot of natural stone work that complements the big older homes in the area,” Mike explains. “So we employ phenomenal stone masons, who are really becoming a rarity. We also employ plumbers and electricians, allowing us to do complete installations of outdoor kitchens, for example.” New Vista is serious about customer service: “Once we start a job, we are there every day until it is finished,” Matt says. New Vista forms long-lasting relationships with their clients, with about 90% of their business coming via referrals from satisfied customers, which is the best possible endorsement. Call New Vista Enterprises today for a consultation on the best way to utilize your outdoor space to take full advantage of our beautiful warm weather seasons. Visit the website at newvistaent.com to see a gallery of projects and for more information.

FIX YOUR OURDOOR SPACE

Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

New Vista Enterprises 216.291.1100 newvistaent.com Matt and Mike Supler Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

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Save Time, Energy & Money: Replace That Asphalt Driveway With Concrete

by Kristal Pettit photos Aaron Leyser and courtesy ALBA Contractors

ome homeowners wish for better landscaping. Others dream of kitchen remodels. I spend my spare time imagining the disappearance of that crumbling mess of asphalt some would call my driveway, and a gorgeous span of concrete in its place. I am sure I’m not the only one wishing to never seal coat again. In search of my dream driveway, I spoke with Al Sluga, of ALBA Contractors, Inc. Al founded his company in 1995, starting from a small office in his shed. He’s now a respected industry leader in concrete construction, with over 25 years of experience in the residential and commercial construction industry including on-site supervision and project management. He is the lead component

in sales and in maintaining the vision of ALBA Contractors, Inc. As President and CEO, Al plays an integral role in the estimates provided each customer. He doesn’t rely on a supervising foreperson - Al is on every job, integrally involved in each project. ALBA Contractors provides construction services to clients who demand professionalism, integrity, trust, and impeccable customer service. When discussing concrete versus asphalt, Al makes a very good point, “Asphalt driveways actually cost more in the long run than concrete because they lack longevity and asphalt driveways require much more maintenance. Not to mention how the asphalt sealant gets tracked into the house.” So, I asked Al about the advantages of Al and Carmelina Sluga

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concrete, besides the longer life and less maintenance. “Concrete is quite versatile. A decorative finish gives your concrete both durability and a polished, unique appearance,” he also added, “When compared to cobblestone or brick, concrete is also more moderately priced.” The planning stage is a good time to consider the finish. A traditional broom finish or beautiful hand finish will enhance your home’s curb appeal. Adding a decorative finish with a stamp pattern or color can give your concrete the appearance, feel, and look of brick, tile, slate, or stone. ALBA Contractors’ team can provide professional guidance through the planning stage of your dream concrete driveway or patio. ALBA can assist with everything from demolition and removal of your existing structures, to the explanation of the quality of materials they use. Their skilled tradesmen understand that the final product depends on the proper performance of each step of the process, from grading to sealing. Al assured me that my driveway is going to make me smile every time I drive in and

out. He explained that my driveway will now be a design element of my landscape, making a dramatic difference in the appearance of my home. My neighbors are going to love it as well. Once my concrete driveway is installed, ALBA’s team of installers will restore the lawn to its original condition so the project will be complete. ALBA Contractors applies the same standards to all its work, whether they are pouring a patio or driveway, waterproofing your home, or repairing or replacing your drain or sewer line. When you call to schedule your consultation, you’ll be happy to know that an actual person will always answer the line during business hours. ALBA’s entire team understands quality and customer service.

LEARN THE BENEFITS OF CONCRETE Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

ALBA Contractors 8670 Twinbrook Road, Mentor 440.974.9085 albacontractors.com

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Fences:

For Privacy, Security & Peace of Mind By Dylan Yepez photos courtesy Fine Lifestyles

hile you no doubt love your neighbors, adding a privacy fence to your backyard living space creates a more intimate area for relaxing with family or entertaining friends. “It’s an attractive way to secure your property,” explains Dave Schwalm, owner of Truline Fence, Inc. “We can easily fence off your yard to keep animals out and protect your flower beds and vegetables.”

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Dave, a Shaker Heights native, has worked in the trade since 1977. In 1989, Dave started Truline Fence, Inc. as a reliable purveyor and servicer of fences and decks, both residential and commercial. Twenty-eight years later, Dave continues to personally handle every facet of the business, from initial consultations to fence and deck installations and maintenance. “I vowed to stay small, give personal service, and make sure I’m on every job site so everything is done perfectly,” Dave says. Truline Fence supplies, installs, and repairs the full spectrum of fencing materials, such as chain-link, split rail, ornamental aluminum, ornamental iron, and ornamental vinyl, as well as power and non-power estate gates. Dave can even install custom-built cantilever roller gates and aluminum slide-track gates equipped with electronic gate operators. Whether you need to keep things in, keep things out, or block the view of unsightly lots, Dave can build a fence for it. For instance, with an elegant hardwood or ornamental iron fence around your backyard, letting your dog out to run around and take care of business is as easy as opening the back door. Walking your dog is the responsible thing to do, of course. But if past winters have taught us anything, it’s that sometimes it’s just too cold to bundle up and trudge around the icy, snow-covered block with your pooch. If you like your deck but it’s a little worn down, Dave can give it a thorough update to keep it structurally sound, functional, and beautiful in time for this summer’s nice weather. He can repair, rebuild, expand, and reduce existing decks, and he recycles all old wood and metals, never putting any recyclables into a landfill. Three- to five-year workmanship guarantees are standard on Truline Fence installations — so if anything goes wrong, Dave will be back to fix it. Truline Fence serves all of northern Ohio. Dave handles jobs both residentially and commercially, at sites such as farms, factories, and scrap yards. Give Dave a call at 440.479.8342 for an appointment, and he will come out to give you a free, fair, and honest estimate. No job is too big or too small for Truline Fence. Truline Fence 440.479.8342 LEFT: Dave Schwalm Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Who Doesn’t Want a Clean, Organized Garage? by Dylan Yépez photos Courtesy of Garage Finisher

ave you been avoiding the accumulation of stuff in your garage this winter? Spring is here and you’re going to need to find those garden tools. Wouldn’t you like some help cleaning and organizing your garage space? All you have to do is call Mario F.X. Salwan at Garage Finisher, and he’ll take care of the rest. Garage Finisher is a full-service garage-makeover provider that will be in and out faster than you can come up with another excuse not to makeover your garage. When Mario says “full service,” he means it. The professionals at Garage Finisher begin by removing everything from your garage, storing items you still want in a storage trailer and discarding or donating anything you don’t want. Then, they handle any work you choose including Lifetime Warranty Flooring System,

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epoxy wall painting, attractive cabinets and PVC Slatwall System. When Garage Finisher is done, they remove everything from storage and organize it in your new cabinets and slatwall. And, they do all this in an average of three days. If, on the other hand, you want just to have your unsightly flooring redone, Garage Finisher still provides the exact same removal, storage and reorganization services for everything inside your garage and can do the floor in just one day. According to Mario, you will “come home from work and not have to lift a finger.” Many mixtures of stone and epoxy used for garage flooring turn yellow over time, come apart and trap water and other contaminants because they are porous and use old-fashioned epoxy. Garage Finisher provides completely nonporous floors, preventing the absorption of anything into the surface. The difference is polyaspartic — a resin that’s four times

as strong as epoxy and doesn’t peel, yellow, stain or degloss like epoxy does — and was created by Bayer Chemical. This is the same flooring that Garage Finisher uses in heavy traffic, commercial projects. This flooring comes in a variety of colors and textures and is also fastdrying, so you can drive on it the day after it’s applied. Garage Finisher confidently

Mario Salwan

offers a lifetime warranty on its work, which covers everything, including staining, cracking, hot-tire pick-up and delamination with no need to ever reseal the floor. When it comes to finishing your garage, flooring is only half the battle. Over time, garages go downhill: the paint peels, junk builds up, and there is no system of organization. Garage Finisher will complement the flooring with strong, durable slatwall which includes a variety of hooks and storage baskets, as well as metal or wood cabinets that have adjustable shelves for permanent organization. As with the flooring, the slatwall and cabinets come with lifetime warranties. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be proud of your garage when you arrive home each day, guests will be amazed by your clean garage, and your clean garage floor will keep your house cleaner. Visit garagefinisher.com for more information about Garage Finisher, a gallery of its work, and a quick five minute video that details the makeover process. Call 216.831.4500 to schedule a free consultation, design and estimate for your new garage space. Garage Finisher 216.831.4500 4530 Renaissance Parkway Warrensville Heights, Ohio garagefinisher.com

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Tax Reform: What Does It Mean to Me? by Mike Cabrerra photos Vincent Pearson Photography

ike many, you may be concerned and more than a little confused by the ramifications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that was signed into law in December of last year. While the new law is technically in effect, according to Steve Newman of Newman & Company CPAs, the impact will be fully felt next year at this time when we’re dealing with the taxes on 2018’s income. Newman & Company is a full service accounting firm with all the expertise and resources of a big accounting firm, but the personal touch of a small firm. Partners Steve Newman and Nick Fanous are prepared to assist their clients with the most meaningful aspects of the new tax law and how it affects their planning for 2018 and beyond. “You may have heard that you will eventually file your taxes on a post card,” says Nick. “But that’s just not the case. While one of the goals of the new law is overall simplification of the tax code, we still have quite some way to go to get there. The Act provides many changes for both businesses and individuals. The impact on individuals will vary depending on the facts and circumstances of each individual.” “Technically speaking,” shares Steve, “the standard deduction for married couples effectively was doubled to $24,000, and for single filers it’s now $12,000, so a lot of people who would have itemized before won’t benefit from doing so now.” On the negative side, deductions for income and property taxes have been capped at $10,000 per year. Additionally, miscellaneous itemized deductions have been eliminated all together. Even with a higher standard deduction, individuals may be able to plan to itemize in alternate years by bunching available deductions (such as charitable contributions) into one year and exceeding the standard deduction threshold. On the business side, the Act has

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lowered corporate tax rates and created a deduction for qualified business income from partnerships, S corporations, limited liability corporations and sole proprietors. “Now more than ever people need guidance as to what benefits accrue to each of the different types of business entity,” Steve says. “Both startups and established business enterprises will want to fully understand the tax implications for each type of entity, and decide which will be most beneficial to the business owner now and when it is time to sell or pass the business on to the next generation. “ “Another benefit to all businesses”, Nick points out, “is the incentive for business owners who want to purchase business equipment. Accelerated depreciation will allow a complete write-off for the purchase without having to spread the deduction benefit over future years.” Whether you have an existing business or are forming a new business, the team at Newman & Company draws upon their accumulated experience to guide you in making decisions that may ultimately have tax consequences. Steve Newman explains, “You receive the greatest value from your accounting firm in planning for the future, not just in keeping records of the past.” Call Newman & Company today to schedule a consultation. Steve and Nick would like to hear about your personal or business tax concerns to determine how they can best assist you. There is no charge for a thirty minute consultation and Newman & Company offers free parking conveniently in their building. Newman & Company is located in the Ohio Savings Building at 1801 East 9th Street. You may reach them by telephone at 216.781.6106. Professional biographies and additional information about the firm may be found on their website at www. newmancpas.com. GET READY FOR THE 2018 TAX CODE Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page

Newman & Company 1801 East 9th Street, Suite 1050 Cleveland, Ohio 44114 216.781.6106 www.newmancpas.com The Newman & Company Team Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

Don’t Drive Around with that Ding in Your Door by Kristal Pettit photos Aaron Leyser

ou may be under the mistaken assumption that a cosmetic dent on your vehicle is simply not worth the cost of repair. It isn’t affecting the performance of your car in any way, but each time you get in or out you notice it - and each time you’re annoyed. Not all dents are equal. Some damage absolutely requires body work and paint to make the vehicle look like new. But for door dings, hail damage, and minor creases, paintless dent repair can remove the unsightly indentation using special tools and techniques that makes the repair work quite cost effective. George Graham at Precision Paintless Dent Repair and Detailing is a master

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technician with over 21 years of experience in paintless dent repairs. George purchased a convenient location for his business in Warrensville Heights a year ago. He and his brother-in-law, Tom Lauretta, also a master technician, want car owners to realize that they don’t have to drive that dented vehicle which is causing them constant irritation. “There’s definitely a science behind dent repair, George says.” The thickness of the metal, the curvature or flatness of the area where the dent is located, and the level of impact are all factors which determine whether paintless dent removal is suitable. The more superficial the dent, the more the likely that paintless dent repair is an option. Larger dents can be repaired by paintless dent repair

as long as the metal and paint aren’t stretched beyond their original size. For example, very sharp dents and creases may not be suitable for paintless dent repair. George and Tom have transformed Precision Paintless Dent Repair and Detailing into a freshly scrubbed and organized workspace since George took over ownership. “I want my customers to feel comfortable in a nice waiting area just like I want to work in a clean and orderly shop,” George explained. Because paintless dent removal is not just science, but also an art, George and Tom need to have their repair studio brightly lit and their specialized tools immediately accessible.

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“The most common paintless dent removal techniques use metal rods and body picks to push out the dents from the underside of the body panel or down through the window,” George explains. “There’s no need to remove any of the panels or doors from the body of the auto.” Finishing the repair frequently involves tapping down the repaired surface to remove small high spots, requiring an artist’s touch. Precision Paintless Dent Repair and Detailing has received positive reviews from customers who were impressed with the professionalism and cleanliness they encountered while having their vehicles repaired. Precision offers a good value for their service given the level of expertise it requires. Many drivers would be willing to George Graham

pay a lot to have the irritating, unsightly dent repaired, but at Precision they don’t have to. “If a customer comes in with a number of repairs, I’m happy to give them a package price and save them some money,” George offers. Don’t spend another day glaring at that ding in your car door. Give George a call to see if paintless dent repair is an option for you.

KEEP YOUR CAR IN GOOD SHAPE Go to www.Reveel.it and scan this page Precision Paintless Dent Repair and Detailing 4959 Commerce Parkway Unit B Warrensville Heights 216.905.3387 ppdrcleveland.com Fine Lifestyles Magazine Cleveland

SEALCOATING ASPHALT CONCRETE

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19100 Miles Road, Cleveland 216.663.7800 Obriencutstone.com

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