Cleveland Magazine - May 2023

ON THE COVER

48 BEST RESTAURANTS Meet the people behind the dishes and hotspots that make Cleveland a flourishing foodie destination. Plus, this year's Silver Spoon Award winners, from Best Chef to Best New Restaurant. Edited by Dillon Stewart

Photo by Megann Galehouse

Assisted by Jesse Marianut

FEATURED

42 LAND OF CYCLING Local riders battle city government and reckless drivers for safer roadways. By Anthony Elder

6 FROM THE EDITOR

8 CONVERSATION

LAY OF THE LAND

12 DELTA 8 OR BUST Delving into the legal strain of THC popping up in Cleveland.

14 PRESERVING HISTORY Kelly Flamos fights to restore the once-iconic Variety Theater.

16 RUNNING WITH FLOSS DJ Steph Floss runs with locals for charity and health.

18 CATCHY CLEVELAND Explore the history behind the region's most iconic jingles

22 MOBILE BEAUTY The gurus and stylists bringing luxury to your front door.

FOOD & DRINK

25 WHAT'S POPPIN' Stop by Poppy, the new East Side restaurant from the Salt team.

28 SWEET TOOTH CHIC Dramatic Snax brings a tasty flair to Cleveland's dessert scene.

30 TACO TIME Local journalist Mike Puente turns taquero with Tijuana Tacos.

32 ALL ABOUT PIE Midwest Pie, out May 23, honors the region's tastiest staples.

34 DINING GUIDE Lavish and lounge on these gorgeous patios across the city.

HOME & GARDEN

123 OHIO CITY RENOVATION A local influencer transforms her house into a familyfunctional home.

SPECIAL SECTIONS

51 RETIREMENT LIVING Your guide to a new chapter in life.

Denise Polverine publisher

Dillon Stewart editor

managing editor Ron Ledgard

senior editor Annie Nickoloff

associate editor Anthony Elder

associate digital editor Abigail Kussow

editor - at - large Colleen Smitek

contributing writers Becky Boban, Kate Bigam Kaput, Jacob DeSmit, Vince Guerrieri, Kristen Hampshire, Allison Jack, Chris Manning, Lisa Sands, Cassie Tomaselli, Patrick Williams

editorial interns Abigail Preiszig, Kiara Rodriguez, Karyssa Rose

art director Erin Stinard

associate art director Abigail Archer

contributing artists Jeani Brechbill Photography, Megann Galehouse, Daniel Lozada, Matt Shiffler

photography intern Hayley Vitale

illustration intern Emily Zhang editorial@clevelandmagazine.com

advertising

vice president Paul Klein

senior account managers

Sarah Desmond, Tiffany Myroniak

account manager Julie Bialowas

events and audience marketing manager Jennifer Roberts

traffic coordinator Kristen Brickner adsales@clevelandmagazine.com

content marketing

managing editor Jennifer Bowen Sima

managing art director Rayanne Medford

senior editor Ann-Marie Vazzano

associate art director Megan Rosta contentmarketing@glpublishing.com

production

production manager Alyson Moutz Cowan production@clevelandmagazine.com

digital media

director of digital strategy Jacquie Chakirelis

development manager Daniel Klinzing operations associate Camille Ross

Lute Harmon Sr. founder

Lute Harmon Jr. president & ceo

Cleveland Magazine | Ohio Magazine Lake Erie Living | Content Marketing | Quest Digital chief financial officer George Sedlak

finance director Perry Zohos operations manager Corey Galloway accounts payable coordinator Geli Valli 1422 Euclid Ave., Suite 730, Cleveland, OH 44115 www.glpublishing.com

Subscription services clevelandmagazine@emailcustomerservice.com or 1-800-453-1009

We weren’t born with the Silver Spoon. WE EARNED IT!

Proud to announce multiple Silver Spoon awards…

Delmonico’s Steakhouse - Best Southside Restaurant

Blue Point Grille - Best Seafood, Best Downtown Restaurant

Dedication to provide service and quality is what drives us each day. Thank You, Northeast Ohio, from all of us at Hospitality Restaurants.

SAVE BIG ON BUSINESS EXPENSES

told us on page 51. “I don’t know if it’s lightning in a bottle or serendipity, but it makes working in a restaurant feel like having a blast at a party with friends."

We set out this month to profile the chefs behind Cleveland’s most exciting new restaurants. What we ended up with is a case study on how it

Anthony Elder and Annie Nickoloff is the lifeblood of our storytelling. Art directors Erin Stinard and Abigail Archer turn Word Docs into pieces of art, and newbie Abigail Kussow gives you daily content in between print issues as associate digital editor. Meanwhile, talented young interns help us achieve accuracy.

Our extended editorial family also includes a growing pool of freelancers. You’d be hardpressed to find a better food photographer in the country than Megann Galehouse, who shot this month’s cover. Becky Boban is a budding storyteller with serious chops, and Jacob DeSmit, Kate Bigam Kaput and Lynne Thompson's greatness continues to grace our pages.

If you take anything from this issue, I hope it’s that most meals, most parties and most creative endeavors are better shared.

Dillon Stewart, editor stewart@clevelandmagazine.com

Editors’ Foodie Picks

The Cleveland Magazine staff rounded up their current favorite tasty haunts around The Land.

Lager & Vine in Hudson. It is a great place for couples. It has a wonderful atmosphere and great cocktails. We love the Tuscan garlic tomato bruschetta topped with mozzarella and the hanger steak served with Parmesan risotto. lagerandvine.com – Managing Editor Ron Ledgard

Ninja Sushi, located in a strip mall in Mentor-on-the-Lake, is a hidden gem. Skilled sushi chefs slice sashimi in a sleek, modern temple to Japanese cuisine. It’s been my favorite culinary surprise of the year. ninjainmentor.com –Editor Dillon Stewart

I’ve been obsessed with Algebra Tea House lately. It’s the perfect cozy spot to go to when Cleveland weather hasn’t decided to be in full spring mode yet. Their iced chai is great, I’m a big fan of their hummus dip plate and their baklava is, in my opinion, the best in Cleveland. algebrateahouse.com – Senior Editor Annie Nickoloff

Readers' Dream Homes

Following the release of the 2023 Cleveland Home Issue in April, we asked our social media followers about their dream home preferences.

What’s your favorite design style?

Mid-Centurty Modern: 17%

Minimalist: 38%

Traditional: 22%

Bohemian/Eclectic: 22%

QUESTION OR COMMENT ABOUT THE MAGAZINE?

What would you rather have in your dream home?

Elevator: 8%

Indoor Pool: 16%

Lakeside View: 60%

Connected Green House: 16%

Goodkind Coffee in Lakewood. I’m big on space and ambience, so this checks all my boxes. Give me one cortado with oat milk in a thick-rimmed ceramic tea cup, and I’m a happy gal. I’m sending extra brownie points their way because of the overhead lighting and ceiling tile situation. goodkindcoffee.square.site – Associate Digital Editor Abigail Kussow

Reach out to us at conversation@clevelandmagazine.com.

Purchase

Sign

THE LAND

REGGAE

MAKING BEAUTY MOBILE

PHOTO BY MATT SHIFFLER

FEST HITS VOINOVICH PARK

A Rare Sky: Photographer Matt Shiffler caught the moment when Cleveland's sky became illuminated with the Northern Lights in February.

Those who missed it might get another chance in 2024. VARIETY THEATER REVIVAL

The Delta Blues

In the face of cannabis prohibition, a side industry of delta-8 THC has emerged in the hemp space. But can Clevelanders distinguish between good and bad actors in an unregulated industry?

CLEAN REMEDIES’ Avon headquarters is a well-oiled cannabis operation.

In a sleek, inviting lobby, customers shop for gummies, fruit tarts, chocolates, tinctures, drink mixes and dabs made from hemp-derived CBD and delta-8 distillate. In the back, employees donning lab coats and hair nets work a gummy machine, coating multi-colored delta-8 THC gummies

with sugar, then placing them into jars. The hemp business’s stated mission is to provide customers, especially those in old age or recovering from surgeries, with relief.

Meredith Farrow, owner of Clean Remedies, says delta-8 relaxes her and makes her happy and giggly. It provides a buzz, and that’s what many consumers are looking for when they

walk in the business’s doors or purchase its products online.

“Most of our customers, once they’ve tried a delta-8 or a delta-9 product, they tend to stick with that rather than to go back to the full-spectrum CBD,” Farrow says. "We’re all stressed out — inflation and the economy and politics and just everything.”

There’s a good chance you’ve heard of delta-8 or seen it on the shelves of wellness stores, gas stations and vape shops. When the U.S. government legalized hemp in 2018, it opened the door for products with small amounts of cannabis’s active ingredients, such as delta-8 and delta-9. With psychoactive properties that range from subtle to strong, it’s the latest craze drawing in cannabis consumers — especially in states like Ohio, where recreational cannabis is not yet legal.

Yet, not every company goes to the same lengths as Clean Remedies to ensure a safe experience.

Products with mislabeled potency can provoke unexpected anxiety and paranoia, and according to industry experts, a lack of federal regulations in the delta-8 industry means the onus is often on the consumer to perform their own research.

“I literally know hundreds of people that derive benefit from delta-8 products,” says Chris Hudalla, president and chief scientific officer of ProVerde Laboratories. “But it’s a little bit like Russian roulette.”

One concern surrounds the inhalation of delta products through vaping. In 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention blamed vaping for a series of lung injuries that hospitalized more than 2,500 people and killed 68. Those injuries were linked to mostly black-market vape cartriges containing the chemical vitamin E acetate.

Since then, vitamin E acetate’s connection to that public health outbreak has been widely publicized. Yet, Hudalla, a Ph.D. scientist whose company in Massachusetts has tested approximately 5,000 delta-8 products,

says many products still test positive for vitamin E acetate.

Still, in the past two years, there have only been 104 hospitalizations directly linked to delta-8. More than half of those involve edibles, such as gummies or chocolates.

However rare, it remains a worstcase scenario. But its for that reason Clean Remedies doesn't sell vapes.

“I don’t feel there’s enough research of the ramifications are of vaping all day,” Farrow says

Clean Remedies has its own lab to test products for other companies, and it also puts its products through a third-party lab test. It sources ingredients like hemp flower, CBD isolate and delta-8 distillate from a USDA Certified Organic farm in Oregon. By contrast, delta-8 retailers and out-of-state and underground producers are often able to bypass industry standards. Though Ohio follows federal laws in when it comes to delta-8, such as requiring purchasers to be 21 years of age, delta-8 products are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

“There are so many companies that are fly by night,” says Meredith, whose company also tests products from across the country. “They could be making it in their basement, they could be making it in their garage. You want to make sure that where you’re getting it from is a reputable company that’s been around, that didn’t just pop up overnight, and that they have protocols, that they’re not just making stuff over the fire with no hair nets, no beard nets.”

Certification is important because the hemp plant is known to bioaccumulate undesirable contaminants such as heavy metals and pesticides. Consumers should look on their delta-8 product packaging for a QR code to scan, Meredith says.

“If you’re going to buy a product, delta-8, delta-9, whatever it may be, that doesn’t have a QR code, run, because this is going to link you to all the third-party lab results to make sure it’s safe, the purity is what we’re

advertising it on the front, there’s no heavy metals, pesticides, mildews, any of that stuff in the product,” she says.

David Magnus, manager and partner of hemp product retailer EV Naturals in Parma, works to ensure people who buy products at EV Naturals can feel confident in them.

Part of Magnus’ role is to scrutinize vendors and the lab reports they attach to products. He says he has turned away several companies that aren’t trying to do things right. Typically, he’s looking for batch-specific lab results.

“A lot of companies will say they have third-party testing, but it’s just one general lab report,” he says. “You want to make sure that they test every batch.”

Jon Svigel, manager of Magic Wizards Smoke and Vape Shop in Middleburg Heights, says every day he’s been in the store since starting work there in early 2022, customers have come in for delta-8.

Svigel lets customers look at the menu and decide what they want, as he’s not there to tell them what to buy. He agrees that customers should scan product QR codes and verify information about products online He cautions that no matter how much due diligence, mislabeled products do make their way into the market.

For Greater Clevelanders eager to try cannabis as medicine, there is another route: Ohio's Medical Marijuana Program. Though it is somewhat limited, has been slow to expand and is often costlier than programs in other states or black market solutions, it is

likely the safest option.

“Testing is part of regulation," says Matt Close, executive director of the Ohio Medical Cannabis Industry Association. "I would urge people to understand that there is a medical marijuana program in the state where you can purchase medicine that is highly, highly tested.”

For those who can’t or don’t want to access the medicinal program, delta-8 remains an option. “A lot of people don’t have a medical card,” Svigel says. “And they don’t want to drive to Michigan (where cannabis is legal).”

Still, Brandon Nemec, government and regulatory affairs associate director at PharmaCann, a medical and recreational/adult-use cannabis company that operates in Ohio, warns that hemp companies can stoke consumer confusion.

“What is on those labels is very often inaccurate and misleading as far as the potency,” he says, “as well as the potential contaminants that may still be existing in those products.”

Delta-8 and -9 stores like Magic Wizard often resemble legal recreational marijuana dispensaries.

Finish Lines

Variety Theater owner Kelly Flamos is searching for the funding necessary to put her vision for the historic venue in place.

NEARLY A YEAR AFTER Kelly Flamos closed on her deal to purchase the Variety Theater, the curtains remain closed on her vision to reinvent one of Cleveland’s historic landmarks.

Constructed in 1927, the theater’s interior is crumbling. Decades removed from a fabled Motorhead concert so loud it cracked part of the ballroom ceiling in 1984, large swaths of fallen plaster and debris sit piled across the aisles of the main floor and upper balcony; the building’s main entry remains shuttered to the bustle at the corner of Loraine Avenue and West 118th Street.

Like the groups before Flamos, she faces a harsh reality: little can be done before untangling the web of necessary funding.

“I thought that my big challenge was going to be running the theater … getting people to come to the theater and keeping it going,” Flamos says. “Over the past year, I’ve realized that there are finish lines before I even get to that challenge.”

Flamos, who has worked closely with the real estate and property management firm MCM Co., says nothing can be done until all pieces of the project’s funding are in place. This entails grants and other forms of nontraditional funding at the city, county and state level, including a $2.5 million grant from Cuyahoga County first secured by former Cleveland city councilwoman Dona Brady.

Brady worked closely with the theater’s last ownership group, the Friends of the Historic Variety Theater, a nonprofit group that took possession of the building in 2009. The organization and Brady were instrumental in securing funding for the theater’s restored marquee sign, an updated electrical system and an adjacent, city-funded parking lot.

Today, the linchpin for Flamos’ operation rests on historic tax credits at the state and federal levels. As of this spring, only the federal credit is secured, after the theater’s application for the Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program last September yielded no award.

Melissa Ferchill, the president of MCM, says securing the tax credit is uniquely tough for theaters, due to the greater expense to rehabilitate the space. Even so, the guidelines for the program note specific consideration is given to historic theaters that are “intended to be used as a theater after renovation is complete.”

“There is supposed to be some preference to theaters, but we haven’t quite seen it in the way they score the

project,” Ferchill says.

When full funding is in place, Flamos aspires for Variety to anchor Westown, as it was during its heyday, with the added benefit of providing room for affordable housing and dining. Included in the block are 12 studio apartment units, nine potential retail storefronts and a restaurant space.

Flamos brings extensive experience from her time as co-owner of Lakewood’s Mahall’s 20 Lanes. Flamos intends for the Variety to primarily be a live music venue, with the power to draw people who may not otherwise be familiar with the neighborhood.

Danny Kelly, the recently appointed Cleveland city councilman of Ward 11, believes the theater fills a void in his ward.

“A lot of the [enthusiasm] has waned because this has been on for so long,” says Kelly, “but [Flamos] put up a lot of real money to do this. I don’t think people realize you got somebody who’s taken a shot on a dream.”

Kelly Flamos aims to revive the Variety Theater a historic Cleveland venue.

Rockin' Reggae

Reggae Fest has been rebranded with a tinge of rock ‘n’ roll and an additional day added to the event, which returns to Voinovich park on May 27.

As Carlos Jones walked onstage at the 2022 Reggae Fest in Voinovich Park, the moment felt powerful, like the stars had aligned.

The singer recalled performing at the location years ago in the early '90s, before the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame would open its doors near the same spot. Even back then, the

scenic location felt like the perfect place for reggae's "one love" spirit. Coupled with another important occasion and the release of Jones’ album Leave a Trail, coming back toVoinovich felt momentous, Jones says.

“Last year … [Reggae Fest] just happened to be the birthday of the guy we called Papa Dave, who was the leader of I-Tal,” Jones says. “Unfortunately,

he’s no longer with us, but that was a beautiful thing to be able to acknowledge and celebrate.

“We also released our new CD that day,” he adds. “It just really seemed like the stars were aligned and the sun was shining on us, and everything felt like it was meant to be it was perfect.”

The cosmic-feeling event, now called Rock N Reggae Fest, returns to Voinovich Park on May 27 and 28, adding a second day after last year’s event sold out. Of course, Jones and his act, the P.L.U.S. Band, will be there jamming.

Adam Bossin, founder of local event organizers Taste CLE, took the proverbial reigns on regional reggae festivities seven years ago. Now, Bossin has the wiggle room to expand the sound of the event.

“There’s really two forms of reggae music now: there’s roots reggae, which is your traditional style … Carlos [Jones] and Bob Marley and Shaba and all these more traditional old school guys,” Bossin says. “But there’s a new version of reggae where it’s kind of what I like to call ‘happy beach music.’ And that’s like Sublime.”

So, day one holds it down for newcomers — upbeat rockers like Cloud9 Vibes. Day two boasts a lineup of roots masters like Jones, jamming that traditional, Jamaican-influenced sound.

The event is sponsored by Bossin’s most recent venture, a 501 (c) nonprofit called 1 Million Hearts, which aims to get 1 million people willing to donate just $1 regularly to various causes.

Ahead of the festivities, Jones looks forward to that “one love” energy that brings him back every year.

“For the 40-plus years that I’ve been doing this, I’ve always noticed that there never seems to be any trouble or any bad feelings,” he says. “When we get together and get immersed in this vibration … that’s what ‘one love’ is all about.”

MUSIC

For local reggae legend Carlos Jones, the energy found within the genre feels akin to a religious experience.

Jogging Inspiration

Run With The Winners, a jogging club founded by one of Cleveland's biggest radio and sports DJs, is designed for all paces and races.

DJ STEPH FLOSS STARTED RUNNING TO HELP TWO FRIENDS. In 2014, the DJ for the Cavaliers, Browns and Z 107.9 was looking for ways to be philanthropic in Cleveland. A few months before the Cleveland Marathon, Floss’ friend Mick Mumford had a cancer recurrence. Another friend’s mother was dealing with cancer around the same time. He wanted to use his platform to help. “Cancer victims need things,” Floss says. “They need treatment and research, and hospital bills aren’t the cheapest.” Then, a lightbulb went off one day when he picked a friend up from the airport. “She was limping and walking crazy,” he says. “She said ‘I just ran a half marathon yesterday.’ I said ‘Yo, if you could run a half marathon, I can run a

half marathon.’” This was March — not enough time for Floss to start running and complete a half marathon in May. But he found a “couch to 5K” app and trained himself to run the race. Inspired by the rapper/producer Diddy’s ‘Diddy Runs The City’ event from 2003, he started a GoFundMe to raise money for his friends. “He ran the New York Marathon and had never run before and people watched him train and everybody was into it,” Floss says. “I wanted to do that locally. So I framed it as me running a 5K to raise 5K.” Floss finished the 5K — and raised the money. “[Running] didn’t suck as bad as I thought,” he says. “Once I start something new, I get really excited. Once I get in it, I’m really in it.”

FOSTERING COMMUNITY

After he finished that first race, Floss met and saw people just like him, who had just started running and wanted to keep going. So he kept going, too.

The next week, he launched Run With The Winners: a running club for runners like him — “not necessarily the fastest, just interested.” The name is inspired by a company named Roll With The Winners, a brand Floss had ties to.

“The next Saturday after the Cleveland Marathon was our first group run,” he says, “and there were like seven of us. I still have the picture.”

Floss credits his following for helping Run With The Winners grow. His DJing with the Cavs and his affiliation with LeBron James, he says, gave him a platform to give back in ways most people can’t.

“I definitely used that when I started running to promote Run With The Winners,” he says. LeBron even attended an event in Toronto in 2014 along

with Tristan Thompson and some other Cavs players.

HITTING ITS STRIDE

Today, Run With the Winners is a fixture in the Cleveland running community. The group has two weekly runs — one on Tuesday nights starting at North High Brewing Co. in Ohio City and another on Saturdays at rotating locations. It has a prescence at nearly every race in Cleveland.

“If you didn’t know who we were,” Gockowski says, “you’d still know that we are something special.”

That includes the 2023 Cleveland Marathon on May 20-21. Floss is doing the challenge series and will run either the 5K or the 10K on Saturday and the half marathon on Sunday.

“I love that it’s more family and friends than anything else,” he says.

Run With The Winners is purposefully inclusive — all paces are welcome. Adam Gockowski, a Run With The Winners member since 2019, said the vibe matches what Floss brings to DJing at a Cavs game or a club downtown: energetic and positive.

“It’s a diverse group,” he says. “We come from different aspects of life, but we gel. We aren’t a cookie cutter group who all match in personality types and performance types.”

Floss hopes to engage even more Black Clevelanders. On Juneteenth each year, Run With The Winners hosts the Runteenth event to encourage Black runners to join. Floss started the event in 2020 after Ahmaud Arbery was murdered while running. This run, Floss says, is about helping Black runners feel more comfortable and safe.

“We are adamant about getting more Black runners to join the running group,” Floss says.

Floss can’t make every run due to his demanding schedule — his regulars and his partner Kat Ferenz step in if he can’t be there — but the activity has become a vital part of his life.

“I do it for myself. I love to run now,” he says. “But mostly I do it for everybody else that comes and runs.”

DJ Steph Floss turned a lightbulb moment into creating a running group for the community.

Notes of Immortality

Born broken records, good jingles catch the mental needle. They etch themselves into a region’s subconscious. They stir up radio dust, nostalgia and occasionally aggravation. Love them or loathe them, they bind us.

FRIENDS IN CINCINNATI may not appreciate the full cringe value of a Norton Furniture commercial playlist or the genius of the I-X Indoor Amusement Park jingle’s opening chords. Good luck trying out the clap back, “this ain’t Spitzer!” to a self-centered out-of-state relative. From one Clevelander to another, here are the stories behind seven jingles that burrowed into our memories before we even realized they were trying to sell us something.

Megan Corrao, Liberty Ford’s marketing director. “It started to sound a little bit robotic. We worked really hard at getting it to as close as possible.”

While waiting to catch a flight back to Cleveland in LaGuardia Airport, Jim Herrick’s phone rang. The Liberty Ford jingle spilled from its speaker. Three girls 9-10 years old burst into chorus for Liberty Ford’s founder.

“It almost became a part of my business card,” Herrick says, referring to his jingle’s unequaled onomatopoeia, “Ohhhmmmm!”

The ridiculous hum was introduced to Herrick in the early 1990s by a firm in Detroit. At the time, Liberty Ford only had two locations, Vermilion and Bedford, that location was eventually moved to Maple Heights.

“We had a choir come in,” recalls

“The thing about a jingle is, in my opinion, you had to stay with it regardless,” Herrick says, referring specifically to car dealerships. “You had to make it part of the fabric of everything in your commercial world.”

Herrick, who retired in 2020, calls this philosophy brand building 101. He notes a jingle needs to be simple and catchy, not overcooked.

“Lord knows there are enough commercials on television with running footage of cars and trucks,” Herrick says. “It’s almost like automatic time to go to get something to eat.”

Hence, the barbershop quartet. Bet-

ter yet, cameos from locals about town singing the jingle. In 2018, 50 people participated in Liberty Ford’s jingle contest for $10,000. The youngest contestant was 9 years old.

“I’m sorry,” the LaGuardia Airport girls’ mother told Herrick.

“Oh man, I’m not,” Herrick told her.

was revisited in the ‘90s.

“The ‘need’ was kind of higher pitched. It didn’t really flow as well,” Danielle Harubin, Discount Drug Mart’s marketing specialist, explains.

The jingle has several variations, including Christmas and acoustic versions, Harubin says.

In 2010, Discount Drug Mart troops were deployed to local spots for B-roll in its next commercial. On a whim, locals began singing the jingle.

“[The commercial] is very Cleveland," Harubin says, "so it was just very at home."

During the performance, Sipl played his biggest hit: the I-X Indoor Amusement Park jingle.

“I started it by just doing an instrumental, flow piano, you know, not easily identifiable, until we got to the chorus,” Sipl says. “When we went into it, people all sang along, the whole crowd.”

Beside Sipl that night stood Billy Sullivan, the jingle’s voice. A guitarist for Herman’s Hermits, Sullivan, who’s also the vocal talent behind “Georgio’s Oven Fresh” and “Mr. Hero, it’s the taste you crave!” moved back to Cleveland from Chicago in 2018. But the I-X jingle follows him across state lines.

The latest rendition of Patio Enclosure’s jingle strives to leave a positive imprint. You’d think it was a song about love or heaven. The final line reveals it’s about a sun room.

“The one thing that is consistent throughout has been that end tag of ‘the one and only Patio Enclosures.’ Very iconic,” says Melissa Skinner, Patio Enclosures’ vice president of marketing.

The original, created sometime in the ‘70s, has obtained mythic status. Legend has it the jingle was written by a local composer. His daughter provided the original vocals. Their names, Skinner says, have “been lost to time.”

The latest version, recorded in New York City through a firm in 2010, is what the company currently uses.

George Sipl is Cleveland’s most prolific jingle writer. He’s the mastermind behind USA Insulation (sung by Steve Jochum, famous for “Funky Poodle”), the original notes of the General, Spitzer (refreshed in 2019 by former-American Idol contestant Madeline Finn).

This past February, Sipl performed at the Music Box Concert Hall as part of Frank Amato’s Christmas Jam, featuring The Cleveland All Stars. Originally slated for December but postponed due to 2022’s bomb cyclone, the proceeds benefited The Autism Society of Greater Cleveland.

“That’s the one that will live on to infamy,” Sullivan says. “I still get requests for it. In particular, this one venue in Cleveland called the Public House, on the West Side, Kamm’s Corners, the moment I walk in the door they start going ‘I-X! I-X!’ It’s crazy. Even when I lived in Chicago, there were some people that were from Cleveland that sent a request up, ‘Can you sing the I-X jingle?’ I did it in downtown Chicago. I said, ‘This is for my Ohio friends.’”

Sullivan recorded the “Teen” version of the jingle with Sipl at Sipl's house near the end of 1993. Having just finished the kids’ version, Sullivan recalls Sipl a little frazzled. There wasn’t much room in the booth; Sipl was on the keyboard right behind Sullivan and Ed Starley was on guitar. Sipl encouraged Sullivan to think of alternative ‘90s for the vocals, to make it fun and upbeat.

After a few runs, Sullivan tapped into the I-X energy, annunciating the name

Short, sweet and informative, Discount Drug Mart has broadcasted its jingle since the mid-1970s. The Ohio-based chain, started in Elyria in 1969 by Dr. Parviz Boodjeh, hired a Cleveland ad agency to create this earworm, but the recording took place in New York. The final line was tweaked when the jingle

“If it’s entertaining, amusing, or even a bit aggravating, but if people remember it, then that’s all you’re trying to do.”

that would teach the public how to easily say the awkward title for the next 25 years.

“We did alternate versions of it. There was (three) country version (none aired) and a kids’ version (that did air),” Sipl says. “But none of them stuck. The main one (the kids version) was the one that survived.”

Sipl attributes its success to the hook’s simplicity.

“’I-X, Indoor, Amusement Park,’” Sipl sings. “That’s three notes. If you really stop and analyze it, ‘at Spitzer, our world revolves around you,’ three notes. That’s probably one of the things, not complicating the issue. So you kind of learn the song.

"Once you learn the song, it simply becomes far more palatable. If it's going to take too long to learn the song, people will lose interest.”

His unaltered voice reminds me of a nasally Alan Alda.

Sellers didn’t start into voice overs until his late 20s. In ’98, Saifman, Richards & Associates got the bid for the General. Sellers was hired, but he was nervous.

“I’d never sang before for anything professional, and I didn’t know when to start,” Sellers says. “[Sipl] stuck me in front of the microphone, and he hit the button and everybody looked at me expectantly like, 'OK, go ahead and do your thing.'

"And I had no idea when to start. The music was playing and George was looking at me and I was looking at him, sweating.

“Finally I just told him to point when it’s time for me to sing. So he cued up the music, hit play, music began and I did my thing.”

were brainwashed with it,” Schoen says. “When they hear it now, they kind of laugh, it brings a smile to their faces. I think it takes them back to a time and place in their lives that maybe they think of fondly.”

In the early 2000s, The General moved from Saifman, Richards & Associates to Balboa Communications in California. But he left his voice in Cleveland. Rick Sellers decided to leave the company’s president a voicemail.

“I just saw a commercial, and I don’t know who that imposter is, but I want my gig back,” Sellers said, using the General’s voice.

Within two minutes Sellers’ call was returned.

By 2004, Wes McCraw had rewritten Sipl’s lyrics and recorded the latest with Sellers at Creekside Audio Production in Norton, near Akron.

Sellers’ professional vocal arsenal includes Transformers, like Optimus Prime and Bumblebee, and Star Wars characters, like Obi-Wan Kenobi and Boba Fett, for Hasbro. He slides easily into Shaggy, Scooby-Doo and a shrill tone he reserves for stories about his girlfriend during our phone interview.

One of Cleveland’s older jingles, Garfield 1-2323 began crackling over the airwaves during baseball games in the 1940s. If America’s second religion was baseball, then the voice of god was Jimmy Dudley for Clevelanders. And this god was a spokesperson for Garfield.

Sipl praises Garfield’s jingle for its four simple notes. Skinner mentions it with a giggle. But how does Herbert Schoen remember it?

“I think I remember it sadly as a source of embarrassment,” Schoen, Garfield’s owner, laughs. “It was on so much, I kind of became identified with it. Other kids would tease me and sing it at me.”

Schoen’s father, Leslie, and Uncle Buddy bought the business in 1973 from the original owner, who started it in 1936.

“We were on television so much back in the '70s and '80s … People

Stanley Steemer began in Columbus in 1947. The gummy jingle was born on a piano in Dallas in the early aughts.

Paul Loomis, chairman and founder of The Loomis Agency and co-owner of Luminous Sound Studios, created the resilient earworm after meeting with Stanley Steemer’s chairman, Wesley Bates. Loomis convinced Bates to buy the phone number with the spelling variation of steamer. Lisa Bevell, a Nashville-based artist, lent her warm voice to the original.

“We started running that regionally in about five U.S. markets in Texas and Colorado, starting in 2004. It was picked up nationally after that,” Loomis says.

Loomis has written jingles for Pier 1 Imports, PepsiCo and Ford Motors, among others. Steemer’s jingle belongs to the studio’s long lineage of success.

“There’s a lot of psychology associated with this. People have an uncanny ability to retain melodies, and it is related to the intervals in a scale,” he says.

New variations continue to multiply. Ben Leeson, Stanley Steemer’s director of video and photography, plays the accordion in a pirate-themed version; the harp in a Caesar-themed one. The Canton native’s favorite is a soft folk rendition by Columbus-based musician J. Moriarty.

“That kind of music is really our kind of music as Ohioans, as Midwesterners. I think people connect to that kind of organic, folksy kind of sound,” Leeson says.

Mobile Beauty

With the speed of today’s life, free time to go out and pamper yourself is hard to find. These companies aim to ease that burden by bringing the experience to you.

MOTHER NURTURE MASSAGE

When you have a new baby at home, finding time for yourself is no small feat. Licensed massage therapist Alesha Lifka knows that sometimes, overwhelmed parents just don’t do it at all, and she wanted to make it easier on them.

“I saw a need in the community for moms who wanted to stay in the comfort of their home while their body heals and they adjust to life with a newborn,” she says.

Though she has studios in North Olmsted and Lakewood, Lifka’s inhome postpartum massage gives clients extra peace of mind during this sometimes-difficult transitional period. And her in-home prenatal massages are especially popular among pregnant clients on bed rest.

She can accommodate a variety of schedules, too, with appointments as early as 8 a.m. and as late as 7 p.m. — making life that much easier for new and expectant parents. 216-501-0361, themothernurturemassage.com

SALON2U

As a two-time cancer survivor, Breeonne Reed couldn’t stop thinking about how much she would’ve loved the option of an at-home manicure while going through medical treatments. In 2019, with a newborn at home and college tuition to pay, she quit her salon job to go fully mobile.

You’re already doing just about everything else from home, including remote work, online exercise classes and on-call grocery delivery. But has it ever occurred to you that you could bring your beauty and wellness services home with you, too? Some of Cleveland’s savviest entrepreneurs have gone mobile, letting you skip the traffic and enjoy everything from deep-tissue massages to glowing golden spray tans from the convenience of your own abode. “Some people think it must be so luxury that they couldn’t possibly do it, but that’s not the case,” says mobile nail technician Breeonne Reed, owner of Salon2U. “It’s a luxury service, yes, but it’s also really reasonable. Everyday people can have this done.” With so many high-end mobile services available to come to your door, you might never want to leave home again.

“It’s blossomed into a way to help people get the things they love more easily,” says Reed, who now employs five other nail techs. They offer everything you’d find in a brick-and-mortar salon: gel manicures, polish changes, pedicures, nail art. Clients run the gamut from women with health concerns to stay-at-home moms to people with salon anxiety — anyone who craves the ease of sprucing their nails without ever leaving home.

“People think that you must have to be a celebrity or super wealthy to do this for yourself,” Reed says, “but our clients are just everyday people with jobs and kids.” salon2uexclusive.com

DUMPY CUTZ MOBILE BARBERSHOP

When Dorian “Dump” Porter lost his job at a factory, he decided it was time to go into business for himself. First, he enrolled in barber school. Next, he had a Ford E454 van customized with club-style lighting, colorful artwork and quilted leather seating — plus everything he needs to do haircuts, fades, shampoos and more.

And then he hit the road.

“Not just any barber can do this,” Porter says. He offers all of his services from within the van, with group booking options that turn an elite experience into a social experience. “I save you so many inconveniences by pulling up on you,” he says. instagram.com/feedmecutz

NOELIA’S MOBILE SPRAY TANS

If the term “spray tan” makes you think of orange streaks, it’s time to give that mental image a glow-up. Spray tanning is the safest way to achieve a toastier tone, and the products have come a long way since those messy, unreliable self-tanners of old.

“It’s kind of like foundation matching,” says owner Noelia Royster. “I match the undertones of people’s skin, and I ask questions like whether they sunburn easily and what kind of look they’re trying to achieve.”

In 2018, after her father died and her son went to college, Royster opened her mobile business as a side hustle to stay busy. “I’m all about bringing out the beauty that you already have," she says. 216-297-5360, instagram.com/ noeliasmobilespraytans

CLEVELAND MOBILE MASSAGE

Ahh, you’ve just gotten an incredibly relaxing massage … and now it’s time to fight traffic to get home from the spa. Talk about a vibe killer!

Licensed massage therapist Rebecca Perkins knew the feeling, and she wanted to offer Clevelanders an alternative. She went mobile in 2016.

Many of her clients have mobility issues or mental health issues, she says, and in-home massage allows them to focus on their wellbeing without navigating the challenges that can come with leaving the house.

Perkins brings the whole spa experience to you, including fresh linens, calming music and organic coconut oil. 216-282-7806, clemassage.com

Downtown Cleveland’s most awarded restaurant

A 25 year old Legacy Restaurant located in the heart of downtown Cleveland’s Warehouse District. Home to the same chef and floor staff for over 20 years.

Mallorca is known for the friendliest staff in Cleveland and for serving generous portions from the Iberian Peninsula-Spain and Portugal.

Paella-saffron rice with lobster, clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops, chicken and chorizo

“Cabrito” Baby Goat-Braised for four hours in a Port wine reduction

“Pulpo” Fresh Octopus-served Spanish style with smoked paprika

And other dishes like, shrimp in garlic sauce, rabbit in saffron sauce, as well as a number of pastas and steaks including our “Monster” 32 oz T-Bone steak. No Spanish meal is complete without trying our award winning SANGRIA or any of our Spanish wines that are unique to us.

Ask about our unique dining experience “WINE AND DINE IN THE DARK” -a sexy, sensual experience in the DARK ---with food. A beautiful place for weddings, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, birthdays, showers and more. There is no restaurant as unique as Mallorca. You will feel the love of our Spanish home as soon as you walk through the door. We love our Mallorca home, we love each other and we love all who walk through our doors to become our family. Come be a part of our history while honoring us to be a part of yours.

Hours (Subject to change after COVID)

Monday Temporarily closed

Tuesday-Thursday

Lunch: Noon-2:30pm, Dinner: 2:30pm-9pm Friday

Lunch: Noon-2:30pm, Dinner: 2:30pm-9pm

Saturday- Dinner all day 2:30pm-10pm

Sunday- Dinner all day 1pm-10pm

For large parties contact Laurie Torres, Owner Parking next door and across the street. Valet available on weekends only

Visit us at mallorcacle.com

1390 West 9th Street Cleveland Ohio 44113 in the beautiful Warehouse District 216-687-9494 • mallorcacle.com

Laurie Torres, Owner

DRINK

FOOD &

LARCHMERE WELCOMES POPPY

A TRUTH SEEKER SLINGS TACOS

34

FRES

TITES

GRANDMA’S HOUSE

JESSICA

GUIDE: PATIO SEASON IS HERE

raised,

at heart. Driving across town didn’t make sense, especially as the team readies Evelyn, the forthcoming tapas experience in Gordon Square. Then the Mueller family called. Margaret Mueller had opened Felice Urban Cafe in a cozy green house on Larchmere Boulevard in 2008 at age 79. The family was ready to sell — but only to the right buyer. “‘Change your face, Jess,’” Parkison remembers Vedaa saying to her as the two toured the property, which includes a three story building and gorgeous garden patio. “You start to see visions,” she says.

West

PARKINSON AND JILL VEDAA — the team behind the decorated Lakewood small plates restaurant Salt — did not intend to expand to the East Side. Lakewood

they’re

Siders

In March, that vision came true as Parkison and Vedaa officially opened their second restaurant, Poppy, on Larchmere Boulevard. Frequenters of Salt will find familiar dishes and food philosophies presented in heavier entrees.

For the dynamic duo, who only first met just about eight years ago, opening the space is a major next step in their journey.

“It’s serendipitous that we’re opening on International Women’s Day,” Parkison says. “I can’t stop smiling, right? It’s just a proud moment for both of us.”

The 75-seat project took two months of renovations. A face-lift, which the Salt team took on itself, included applying a fresh coat of paint, installing a wall so visitors could no longer walk through the kitchen and opening up space on the second floor.

The charm hits as soon as you enter the enclosed front porch, which seats a handful of guests on one side and features swinging chairs and greenery on the other. The first floor hosts a cocktail bar and a dining room centered around a wood fireplace. On the second floor, the team ripped out a 10-seat bar and added banquet seating. The third floor is now closed for storage.

Despite the changes, fans of Felice are sure to still feel at home in the 115-year-old house.

Parkison grew up in her grandma Poppy Etta Hodgson’s house on

Northland Avenue in Lakewood. Poppy created an idyllic home.

Betty Crocker cookbook dinners awaited Parkison and her family every evening at five o’clock. When the youngster came home from school, milk and homemade cookies greeted her. With six kids and even more grandkids, Poppy’s house was always full of love.

“The house that I grew up in is incredibly reminiscent of this house,” she says. “We want to make it really cozy.”

The latest menu from the James Beard-recognized Vedaa is organized from small to large. It's a perfect foray into her culinary world — especially for Midwesterners who shudder at the phrase “small plates.”

The buttermilk fried rabbit ($28) came on a bed of celery root slaw and mashed sweet potatoes. The lamb burger ($18) with whipped feta, tomato jam and pickled cucumber even predates Salt, with Vedaa first presenting that dish as the head chef of Rockefeller’s Restaurant in Cleveland Heights.

While Salt’s menus are famous for constantly changing, diners can expect more stability from Poppy, which plans to rotate dishes seasonally.

“We had some small discussions. We really wanted to do a more traditional menu with appetizers, salads and entrees,” Parkison says. “With Jill, you just kind of let her creative brain take over.” poppycleveland.com

FOOD NEWS

HEART OF GOLD'S Adam Bauer stepped down to become top chef at Huntington Convention Center. He hands off to Joe Zegarac of Chow Chow Kitchen.

EDWINS LEADERSHIP & RESTAURANT GROUP'S Brandon Chrostowski was named a finalist for the James Beard Awards' Outstanding Restaurateur. Winners are announced on June 5 at a ceremony in Chicago.

PINS & NEEDLES, the ‘70s-themed cocktail lounge, reopened after three months of renovations caused by storm damage. Mahall's 20 Lanes in Lakewood used the opportunity to expand its basement bar's footprint.

SAPPHIRE CREEK WINERY & GARDENS purchased Thorncreek Winery in Aurora and rebranded the eight-acre property as Orchid House Winery and Gardens.

GRAY HOUSE PIES opened three shops this spring: Gray House Pizza and U.K. Pies & Fries on Madison Avenue and Gray House Pies & Coffee on Detroit Avenue.

For more food news, visit clevelandmagazine.com/fooddrink or subscribe to our CLE Eats newsletter at bit.ly/3zfyh5m.

Dramatic Arts

Annabella Andricks is very good at multitasking.

By 11 a.m. on a typical Saturday, Andricks has several desserts in the works. A cream, sea salt and sugar mixture heats on the stove. A chocolate cake cools, soon to be slathered with icing. Symmetrical squares of cold butter are tossed into flour to start a pie crust.

Nearby, a simple lined notepad keeps track of shopping lists, ideas and workflow.

She devises her own recipes, shops for ingredients and makes nearly 50 desserts each week for her growing list of restaurants, cafes and bars.

The freelance pastry chef has found a home in the back of Saucisson, Melissa Khoury’s Slavic Village butcher shop. Arriving just before the pandemic amid an avalanche of uncertainty, a sisterly bond forged between Andricks and Khoury. They cheered each other on through the darkest of times.

She starts the week making coffee

syrups, cookies and brownies for Index Coffee and Books. Tuesdays are reserved for Juneberry: the legendary coffee cake and salted honey pie. Wednesdays, she fulfills the orders for LBM, Humble Wine Bar and Saucisson. Fridays and Saturdays she plays catchup and makes sure weekend brunch customers can meet demand. Sometimes she takes custom orders.

There’s something completely apropos about the name Dramatic Snax. Andricks’ confections evoke audible expressions of pleasure and launch serious addictions. Even ordinary items reach another level — like her oversized Ho Hos, rolled with chantilly cream filling and a chocolate honey glaze.

Childhood favorites are core to her repertoire; among them are scratchmade ice cream, brown butter blondies, Rice Krispie treats, pies and cookies.

In her hometown of Bryan, Ohio, Andricks didn’t find inspiration in the glass case of a gourmet bakery.

“I was always the grandkid in the

kitchen with grandma, wanting to bake and cook and learn stuff from her,” Andricks says.

Her pursuit started with gumdrop cookies. “When I was five or six years old, she gave me a pair of scissors to cut up gumdrops. I did it every holiday.”

Fleeing small town life, Andricks enrolled in pastry school in Phoenix, Arizona, where she broadened her food knowledge, before returning to Cleveland where she’d work at Lola Bistro, On the Rise and The Black Pig.

Banter was her first customer, once she struck out solo in February 2020.

Her desserts are some of the most popular items at Juneberry Table. General manager Julia Simpson loves the way Andricks elevates classic recipes, like the cinnamon streusel coffee cake with brown butter icing. Her salted honey pie served with chamomile whipped cream is a menu favorite.

“The creamy filling is sweet but not too much so, and the crust is rich and buttery. The top is caramelized and salty to finish,” Simpson says.

LBM, a craft cocktail bar in the Birdtown neighborhood, is also a client. Owner Eric Ho says Andricks’ “texturally different” desserts fit their menu. “I call her giant Ho Hos ‘baby burritos.’”

Andricks admits there's pressure in relying on herself but loves the freedom. “I love what I’m doing. I have so many connections across the city.”

A local pastry chef has been making big waves in Cleveland’s dessert scene.

SWEET STUFF

Annabella Andricks provides desserts to some of Cleveland's best restaurants.

THE KITCHEN HOURS AT TAVERNSIX

KIRTLAND•OH

SUN–MON 11 am—8 pm

TUES–THUR 11am—9 pm

FRI–SAT 11am—10 pm

RESTAURANT CLOSES ONE HOUR AFTER KITCHEN tavernsixkirtland.com

tav6kirtland

THE KITCHEN HOURS AT SAGE KARMA KITCHEN

SUN 10:30 am—8 pm CLOSED MONDAY

TUES–THUR 11:30 am—9 pm

FRI–SAT 11:30 am—10 pm

RESTAURANT CLOSES ONE HOUR AFTER KITCHEN sagekarmakitchens.com sagekarmakitchen

Puente's Dish

Local

investigative

reporter Mark Puente leads a different kind of work when he’s not digging into stories for The Marshall Project. Get to know Puente’s Tijuana Tacos.

OVER THE YEARS, Mark Puente’s travels have brought him around the country, first as a longhaul truck driver, then later as a news reporter covering the country’s swirls of power and crime. Those travels, it turns out, also exposed him to a world of culinary scenes.

Puente might be best-known for his reporting work, but now he’s also on the rise in Cleveland’s food scene, with his mobile restaurant business Puente’s Tijuana Tacos.

First, though, came the stories. Named a Pulitzer Prize finalist two times for his coverage around police brutality and devastating boat fires on the East and West coasts respectively, Puente has worked at the Tampa Bay Times, the Baltimore Sun and the Los Angeles Times. He got his start at The Plain Dealer, where he became known for his reporting on government and crime, including stories about serial killer Anthony Sowell and former Cuyahoga County Sheriff Gerald McFaul. Most recently, his accountability reporting on local police dynamics has helped to establish The Marshall Project’s new Cleveland newsroom.

His hops around the country, motivated by reporting gigs, have always led to more hard-hitting news seeing the light of day.

And it also led to those tacos.

At Puente’s Tijuana Tacos’ events around Cleveland, customers will see a decidedly different side of the writer.

“Being a hard news reporter, I’m not a very warm and fuzzy, feelings, type of person. My son Ryan always gets on me. ‘You need to be friendly, you need to smile and sell this stuff,’” Puente says. “He’s always switching me with people because he says, ‘Quit being the reporter, quit being the bulldog. You’re selling tacos now.’ We argue jokingly about that.”

The taco business officially started when Puente and his wife, Laura, moved back to Cleveland in 2021, but its real beginnings were earlier, when Mark was in the middle of his stint at the Los Angeles Times working as an in-

vestigative and accountability reporter. While walking between the newsroom and police headquarters, he got his first whiff of the California street taco scene.

“I tracked it down and bugged these guys about cooking over charcoal,” Mark says. “We started talking, and they told me it was mesquite charcoal.”

It didn’t take long for the avid barbecuer and meat smoker to buy himself the same charcoal, using it to craft a version of those tacos at home. That charcoal is such a key component of Mark’s cooking that, when he moved

Mark Puente kicked off his taco business shortly after moving back to Cleveland in 2021.

back to Florida and then Cleveland, he brought more than 4,000 pounds of the mesquite with him.

The move back to Northeast Ohio was spurred partially by housing prices and partially by a push from family. Mark’s son Ryan, who works as Cleveland’s deputy chief of staff and chief of government affairs, also often mans the grill at Puente’s Tijuana Tacos events. He convinced his parents to move back to Cleveland.

“I’m not going to lie; I was missing my parents and wanting to have them around a lot more particularly as they’re getting older, and I’m getting older, too,” Ryan says. “I said, ‘I’m willing to help with the taco business, I’ll do the cooking. I can’t do it all the time, but I will certainly have a helping hand on the grill.’ I’ll take credit for bringing him back to Ohio.”

Puente’s Tijuana Tacos is a true family affair; beyond Ryan's work, Mark’s other two sons, Kevin and Keith, help him and Laura run the business when they’re in town, along with his daughter-in-law, her parents and her aunt, and a cast of other friends and family.

Together, they craft a small but flavorful menu which includes a couple of new sides, like nachos and quesadillas, but otherwise focuses on its namesake. The tacos stay simple: Choose from three meats (carne asada, chorizo and pollo) with a queso-filled tortilla option, and choose toppings like cilantro,

onions, radishes and lime, plus red salsa, salsa verde or guacamole salsa.

Tacos are cooked and crafted onsite; Puente’s team even presses its corn tortillas fresh at each event.

“It’s an explosion of flavors, and it’s not a flavor you’ll ever get from a taco maker in Cleveland,” Mark says. “It’s a unique style of taco; these are as authentic as you can get.”

Though the toppings on Mark’s tacos were inspired by his time in California, the chorizo recipe came straight from the family, according to Ryan.

“That’s actually my great-greatgrandfather’s recipe. He used to sell chorizo in Mexico. To be able to carry on the tradition, that’s certainly been

rewarding — and to see the tradition passed down for generations,” Ryan says. “I mess with my dad and call him ‘taquero.’ That’s what they call taco masters in Mexico.”

Mark remains committed to both the journalism and taco worlds, keeping them separate as both pick up steam. He hasn’t ruled out a brick-and-mortar space for his tacos, but for now he’s working on instead building out a commercial kitchen addition to his Medina County home, allowing him to more easily prepare for mobile events.

“It’s my passion. Luckily my wife supports it and my relatives help, because without them it wouldn’t be a business,” Puente says. “I don’t know where it’ll take me, but we like the spot we’re in.”

Clevelanders can get a taste of Puente’s Tijuana Tacos at several upcoming events in Northeast Ohio. The company will be stationed at several LaGrange Food Truck Days throughout the summer, along with several private events and a spot at Bauman Orchards Blueberry Festival in August.

The working journalist's tacos, made fresh on-site, are topped with cilantro, radishes, onions, salsa and lime.

Taste a Slice of History

Midwest Pie: Recipes That Shaped a Region , transports you back to days when recipes were shared through note cards and junior league cookbooks.

Many Midwesterners still have a box of recipe cards, stained with water spots and faded handwriting grandma memorized and passed down from generation to generation. Pie crust and filling secrets perfected over decades of trial and error are pulled out around a holiday or special occasion to transport our taste buds back in time.

If you have ever wished for a “pie-ography” collecting these recipes and the stories behind them, look no further.

Midwest Pie: Recipes That Shaped a Region, expected in May, gives a historical tour of pies from the Heartland and guides readers through one of the region’s most enduring culinary contributions via 50 recipes, historical photos and local lore.

“The recipes were collected from historical cookbooks and regional community cookbooks, either given to me by friends and family members or found in area thrift stores,” says Meredith Pangrace, editor of Midwest Pie.

The cookbookturned-history lesson begins with instructions on how to make five types of pie crusts and walks readers through the bean pie’s origins in the Nation of Islam. One can get a taste of old classics like Butterscotch Pie and Speedy Custard Pie, regional favorites like the Ohio Buckeye Pie and popular treats made with Midwestern ingredients like All-American

Apple Pie and Chokecherry Pie.

From there, readers are transported back in time with “Desperation Pies” from the Great Depression and handheld pies, or “pasties,” which Michigan miners would eat for lunch. Plus, find retro favorites of the ‘50s and ‘60s in these pages.

“My favorites are the ones from the Retro section of the book (Chocolate Marshmallow, Star Spangled Cherry) because those are the ones that I grew up eating,” Pangrace says. “Not only do I love the taste of a graham cracker crust, but they are so easy to make.”

For Pangrace, a Cleveland writer and musician, the most interesting thing she learned about pies while organizing the book was how simple they are to make, especially during the Great Depression when people had just staple household items like cornstarch and sugar to work with.

“It’s amazing the variety of pies that can be made from a few simple ingredients,” Pangrace says.

Midwest Pie: Recipes That Shaped a Region is made for any home chef looking to learn more about the diversity and deliciousness of these Midwestern staples.

Pie lovers can purchase the book online or at local bookstores when it hits shelves in May. In the meantime, it is available for pre-order now at beltpublishing.com.

Until then, here’s a sneak peek of what awaits with a recipe for Hoosier Pie.

HOOSIER PIE

This simple, sweet, creamy pie is the unofficial state pie of Indiana. Falling into the category of “desperation pies,” it’s a treat made when money is tight or fresh fruit wasn’t available.

Makes two pies

INGREDIENTS

2 baked, 9-inch pastry shells

For the filling:

2 cups sugar, separated

3 cups half-and-half

¾ cup butter

¼ cup margarine

⅓ cup cornstarch

Pinch of salt

Nutmeg

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 F.

In a medium saucepan, bring half-and-half, 1 ½ cups sugar and salt to boiling. In a medium bowl, mix together ½ cup sugar and cornstarch. Add the boiling milk mixture gradually to the sugar and cornstarch mixture.

Set aside 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the remaining butter and margarine to the sugar mixture.

Return the mixture to the saucepan to heat and cook, stirring until thick. Pour into baked pastry shells. Sprinkle with nutmeg and a few dots of the reserved butter.

Bake until lightly browned, about 15 minutes.

DO YOU HAVE THE CUTEST PET IN CLEVELAND?

Everyone loves their pet, and we all think ours is the cutest. To help us all celebrate our furry (and not-so-furry) friends, Cleveland Magazine is hosting its 3nd Annual Cutest Pet Contest. Simply visit clevelandmagazine.com/cutestpet to upload your favorite pet picture, and then our readers will vote for their favorite!

The pet selected as the cutest by our readers will be treated to a photo shoot and a prize package from our sponsors!

Presented by:

If showing off your pet’s cuteness isn’t enough, you can help us save lives, too! In an effort to support pet adoption and responsible pet ownership, Cleveland Magazine will be taking donations for area pet rescues on our Cutest Pet Contest page.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: 5.15.2023

CLEVELANDMAGAZINE.COM/CUTESTPET

Sponsored by:

Photography by: Greg Murray Photography. gmurrayphoto.com, IG @thegregmurray

Dining Guide

CLEVELAND’S BEST PATIOS

17 RIVER GRILLE

WHY WE LOVE IT: At this tranquil indoor-outdoor bar and restaurant, guests enjoy steak, seafood and cocktails while perched alongside the city’s picturesque namesake: the waterfall. TRY THIS: For brunch, lunch or dinner, the scratchmade Heavenly Biscuits ($7.90), topped with honey butter, are sure to please. 17 River St., Chagrin Falls, 440-893-0797, 17rivergrille.com

THE ACADEMY TAVERN

WHY WE LOVE IT: A neighborhood gem since 1939, the year-round patio has it all: a fire pit, a tent, a stage, games, TVs and even a patio cat, affectionately named Roger. “The patio gives us the platform to showcase artists, influencers and initiatives,” says owner Christopher Butler. TRY THIS: Locals love the juicy Academy Burger ($13) starring a special house sauce, Swiss cheese, American cheese sauce and a side of fresh-cut fries, says Butler. 12800 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, 216-229-1171, academytaverncle.com

Cleveland Chop

ALL SAINTS PUBLIC HOUSE

WHY WE LOVE IT: Battery Park is home to one of the greenest and most well-designed patios in Cleveland. Guests dig the secluded vibes in this large space, which showcases an outdoor bar, fire pit, fountain, lush landscaping and tons of seating. TRY THIS: The chicken paprikash with homemade spaetzle ($21) is a gem, complete with paprika gravy, sour cream and mashed potatoes. 1261 W. 76th St., Cleveland, 216-675-0028, allsaintspublichouse.com

BREWDOG

WHY WE LOVE IT: The (newer) Cleveland location of this Britishinspired brewpub in the Flats has a show-stopping patio with string lights, games, riverfront views and an outdoor bar in a dogfriendly atmosphere. TRY THIS: You’re never too old for a “Hoppy” meal ($15.95), showcasing a traditional burger and fries; add a pint of any “headline” BrewDog beer ($5). 1956 Carter Road, Cleveland, 216-367-2494, brewdog.com/usa/bars/usa/cleveland

ASTORIA

WHY WE LOVE IT: The charming floral patio is the perfect meeting ground for camaraderie alongside craft charcuterie boards full of gourmet meats and cheese, tapas, wine and Mediterranean fare. TRY THIS: Throw Another Log on the Fire ($18 ) features mild cheeses with heat, including Camembert, pimento goat and piccante fiore, accompanied by pepperoncini taralli, spicy tapenade and Calabrian hot honey. 5417 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, 216-266-0834, astoriacafemarket.com

We {journey} together.

This year, the Arthritis Foundation marks 75 years of progress for the millions of adults and children in the U.S. living with arthritis. Arthritis hits everyone di erently. We want to make sure no one has to make that journey alone. arthritis.org/journey

© 2023 Arthritis Foundation

THE CLEVELAND CHOP

WHY WE LOVE IT: Hidden away in the center of the Downtown action, the clandestine deck overlooks a green courtyard space at this modern steakhouse. TRY THIS: Lobster mac and cheese ($36) is crafted with homemade cheese sauce and Chop-seasoned bread toppings. 824 W. St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, 216-696-2467, clevelandchop.com

COLLISION BEND BREWING CO.

WHY WE LOVE IT: A long patio on the banks of the Cuyahoga River makes for a pristine spot for sunset views accompanied by house-brewed beer and American fare (think burgers, pizzas and seafood). TRY THIS: With a menu full of delicious brewery staples, those in the know start out with the Bavarian Everything pretzel ($15) with IPA mustard and beer cheese. 1250 River Road, Cleveland, 216-273 7879, collisionbendbrewery.com

DON’S POMEROY HOUSE

WHY WE LOVE IT: The American steakhouse and seafood favorite, housed in a mid-19th-century mansion, has been a part of Cleveland’s special occasions for more than 40 years. The seasonal patio is the idyllic spot to bring traditional dining outdoors. TRY THIS: Northeast Ohio loves the crab cake ($20) with Maine lobster-corn relish and smoked tomato buerre blanc. 13664 Pearl Road, Strongsville, 440-572-1111, donspomeroy.com

THE FAIRMOUNT

WHY WE LOVE IT: With 10 beers on tap, frosé at the outside bar and an outdoor fireplace slated for summer, this enormous patio is open any day that weather allows. “We had the opposite problem than most places have,” says owner Jacob Orosz, who expanded the restaurant to match the outdoor space.

TRY THIS: “Our flatbreads (have) gotten

even better since we purchased the oven (formerly used by Il Rione)," Orosz says. Try the truffle mushroom flatbread ($15) with white truffle butter, provolone, mozzarella, roasted mushrooms, shallots and Parmesan. 2448 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216229-9463, thefairmount.net

FLIGHT

WHY WE LOVE IT: “Our patio is a great urban perch to sip on some wine and watch the city roll by,” says owner Lindsay Smith, on the bold sidewalk patio in the heart of Gordon Square. TRY THIS: When business partner Matt Blank unexpectedly passed away last year, Smith named a new flight in his honor after his favorite saying, “You Should Drink This” ($17.50), featuring: Braunewell Scheurebe Halbtrocken Unser Täglich, Domaine Rolet Arbois Poulsard and Andrew Murray Tous les Jours Syrah. 5712 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, 216-400-6867, flightcleveland.com

FOREST CITY BREWERY

WHY WE LOVE IT: Step into this eclectic backyard beer garden with a history that stretches back more than 100 years. Featuring live music, the green space is covered by century-old trees and tons of seating in Duck Island. TRY THIS: There’s nothing more Cleveland than the house cabbage and noodles ($10) in leek oil.

2135 Columbus Road, Cleveland, forestcitybrewery.com

THE GARDEN OF EDEN

WHY WE LOVE IT: Discover a posh Garden of Eden-themed rooftop oasis with inventive cocktails and enviable views of Downtown. TRY THIS: The lounge on top of the Metropolitan at the 9 hotel offers light American eats, but the 7 Deadly Sins cocktail list stands out. Celebrate with Envy ($12), Bacardi rum, Malibu rum, pineapple, lime and fresh mint.

2017 E. Ninth St., Cleveland, 216-313-8810, thegardenofedenrooftop.com

GEORGETOWN/VOSH

WHY WE LOVE IT: The popular courtyard boasts a casual modern outdoor bar, plenty of greenery and a legendary happy hour in Downtown Lakewood. In the winter, igloos make this a winter wonderland

TRY THIS: Known for American favorites, this spot whips up delicious short rib mini sliders ($16) with caramelized onions, Brie and pommes frites. 18515 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-221-3500, georgetownvosh.com

GUARINO’S RESTAURANT

WHY WE LOVE IT: With a charming neighborhood garden patio and authentic Italian cuisine, Guarino’s calls itself Cleveland’s oldest restaurant. Sicilian immigrant Vincenzo Guarino opened the restaurant in the heart of Little Italy in 1918. TRY THIS: Chicken piccata ($20) in white wine, roasted red peppers, lemon and capers is not to be missed. 12309 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, 216-231-3100, guarinoscleveland.com

HARLOW’S PIZZA

WHY WE LOVE IT: Escape to the secluded back patio, complete with vine-covered walls, Southwestern decor and white paper lanterns, hanging above the private pizza oasis. TRY THIS: Lakewood loves the Leonardo ($20) with mozzarella, extra virgin olive oil, pistachios, fresh grape tomatoes, fresh arugula, garlic and sea salt. 14319 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-712-6502, harlowspizza.com

LOCKKEEPERS

WHY WE LOVE IT: For more than 30 years, this upscale restaurant has made a name for itself as a top Italian fine dining spot. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the Cuyahoga River and the patio has matching views. TRY THIS: The simple greens salad ($8) with English cucumber, carrot and balsamic, coupled with grilled salmon ($18), makes for a perfect lunch al fresco. 8001 Rockside Road, Valley View, 216-524-9404, lockkeepers.com

JOJO’S BACKYARD

WHY WE LOVE IT: JoJo’s Bar brings modern American-Italian dining outdoors with its bright upscale space. Already well known as the former Gamekeeper's patio, JoJo's decked it out even further with flowers, foliage, fire and a modern resort-style ambiance. A wood-fired, Argentine-inspired grill and open kitchen dishes out roasted veggies and meat. TRY THIS: JoJo’s spicy vodka rigatoni ($23) stands out with fresh Carbone-style pasta. 87 West St., Chagrin Falls, 440-394-8120, jojosbar.com/backyard

LAKEWOOD TRUCK PARK

WHY WE LOVE IT: A rotating selection of local food trucks includes Slyman's Tavern, Parilya, Bearden's and Manna Food Truck. They line up alongside this 12,000-square-foot, indoor/outdoor space on Detroit Avenue with arcade games and two bars that unique cocktails, beer, wine and milkshakes. TRY THIS: Drink your dessert: The Oreo banana split ($11) is made with vegan cookies and cream, Bacardi light rum, banana liqueur, banana and Oreos. 16900 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-712-4032, lakewoodtruckpark.com

LINDEY’S LAKE HOUSE

WHY WE LOVE IT: Terrace riverfront views ontheFlatsEastBank. TRY THIS: Tempuradusted firecracker shrimp ($15) is served with sweet chili aioli, scallions and sesame seeds. 1146 Old River Road, Cleveland, 216-727-0158, lindeyslakehouse.com

LUCA WEST

WHY WE LOVE IT: Tucked away in Westlake, this hidden courtyard stands out for its outdoor bar, lovely landscaping, distinctive statues and a vast menu of upscale Italian entrees. TRY THIS: Enjoy the pesto ($22) entree with wild mushroom stuffed ravioli and rosemary roasted walnuts. 24600 Detroit Road, Westlake, 216-201-9600, lucawest.com

MERWIN’S WHARF

WHY WE LOVE IT: A casual stretch of urban green space nestled on the Cuyahoga River, the Metroparks-owned restaurant and bar is a must-visit spot with stunning views, cocktails and locally-sourced American grub.

TRY THIS: Start out with the baked 1.5-pound Merwin’s Big Pretzel ($16), accompanied by mustard, queso and Buffalo dip. 1785 Merwin Ave., Cleveland, 216-664-5696, clevelandmetroparks.com

MOMOCHO

WHY WE LOVE IT: “The Momocho patio is unique because of its layout, intimacy and location in the neighborhood,” says chef owner Eric Williams. As many as 65 guests can enjoy the lush space, featuring shrubs, flowers and a large mural on the back wall painted by a local artist. TRY THIS: “After 17 years, the No. 1 menu item is still the machaca taquitos ($15),” Williams said. The coffee and ancho chile braised beef brisket served with guacamole, tomatillo salsa verde and warm corn tortillas “put us on the map.” 1835 Fulton Road, Cleveland, 216-6942122, momocho.com

PIER W

WHY WE LOVE IT: A fine dining icon since 1965, this restaurant features an upfront view of Lake Erie and the Cleveland skyline from the patio attached to the nautical-themed restaurant. The

menu features premium land and sea fare as well as an incredible Sunday brunch buffet. TRY THIS: If you're looking for a casual summer bite, munch on the Pier W cheeseburger ($20) made with 8 ounces of Angus beef on a toasted challah bun. 12700 Lake Ave., Lakewood, 216-228-2250, pierw.com

PORCO LOUNGE & TIKI ROOM

WHY WE LOVE IT: Few cocktail bars put as much effort into craft drinks and themed decor as Cleveland’s quintessential Tiki bar. Thankfully, the ornate Americana decor found inside the bar is complemented by the secluded, understated and dog-friendly patio. A small stone waterfall and even a couple of pink flamingos “walking around” help set the tropical mood. TRY THIS: Escape with a painkiller ($18) crafted with rum and coconut. 2527 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-802-9222, porcolounge.com

SAPPHIRE CREEK WINERY & GARDENS

WHY WE LOVE IT: “Sapphire Creek Winery is all about the outdoors. We have multiple patios, each with its own unique vibe,” including water and fire features, says owner Kathleen Birkel Dangelo. TRY THIS: The star item is the black and bleu walleye ($30) prepared with smoked bleu cheese, served over creamy polenta with a tomato vinaigrette, jalapeno and sweet potato. 16965 Park Circle Drive, Chagrin Falls, 440-543-7777, sapphire-creek.com

THE SOUTH SIDE

WHY WE LOVE IT: The 100-year-old Stacey Building that houses the Tremont staple is just part of the magic. The South Side’s (pet-friendly) patio boasts “all-weather TVs and a cozy corner with a fireplace to lounge around,” says executive chef Natasha Pogrebinsky. TRY THIS: Guests love the Korean fried kimchi chicken sandwich ($15.25), marinated and breaded fresh thighs on a toasted bun with cucumbers, “gucci” gochujang sweet and spicy sauce, garlic aioli and Cleveland Kitchen kimchi. 2207 W. 11th St., Cleveland, 216-937-2288, southsidecleveland.com

THE ORCHID HOUSE WINERY

WHY WE LOVE IT: The first expansion from Sapphire Creek Winery, the eight-acre former Thorncreek Winery offers selections from the same Napa Valley winery as Sapphire. TRY THIS: The pork belly nachos are adorned with lime crema and mango jalapeno salsa. 155 Treat Road, Aurora, 330-5629245, orchidhousewinery.com

TRELLIS ROOFTOP BAR

WHY WE LOVE IT: Lakewood’s only rooftop bar is part of Studio West 117, the LGBTQ+ center that opened in 2022, with private cabanas, small plates and indoor and outdoor bars. TRY THIS: Kick back with the “Cheaper Than Therapy” cocktail ($9), featuring Effen cucumber vodka, lime and St. Germain liqueur. 1384 Hird Ave., Lakewood, 216-801-4286, studiowest117.com

WANT MORE?

Check out more recommendations at clevelandmagazine.com/food-drink

Quartz | Quartzite | Granite | Tile Marble | Soapstone | Porcelain Slab

AN OHIO CITY BIKE SHOP OWNER BECAME THE VICTIM OF A HIT-AND-RUN COLLISION IN OCTOBER, EXEMPLIFYING CLEVELAND’S NEED FOR SAFER INFRASTRUCTURE AND ADVOCACY.

BY ANTHONY ELDER

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JEANI BRECHBILL

light he saw was green. One moment later he was flying through the air, the ground screaming up at him.

On a Monday in October, Alex Nosse had locked the doors to his Ohio City bike shop, geared up for the brief ride home.

It was on Fulton Road, crossing Lorain Avenue not even a mile away from work, that Nosse kept up speed toward an obvious green light. Unfortunately, a light-colored sedan traveling down Lorain couldn’t wait for their red one.

Nosse’s bike jerked out from underneath him as the car clipped his rear rack. His body whipped toward the asphalt like a rag doll.

“It was a very violent feeling,” Nosse recalls. “That’s the first time I’ve actually been hit by a car, like ever. It was definitely a very, very crazy feeling of how vulnerable I felt.”

The cyclist and store owner opened Joy Machines Bike Shop nearly a decade ago, becoming a staple in the heavily walked and

biked Ohio City. Locals around the area have likely seen him at one point or another, and it’s unsurprising when several patrons greet him as he enjoys his morning cup at Phoenix Coffee Co. on Bridge Avenue.

The video of Nosse’s accident, posted to Joy Machines' Twitter, leaves little open to interpretation. The car that strikes him pulls up behind a car stopped at the light, and slows ever-so-slightly before going around the other vehicle and directly toward an unaware Nosse.

Unfortunately, incidents like this are all too common in Cleveland.

“I think it was two weeks to the day before I got hit — I had a bad commute,” Nosse says. “Like three cars did crazy s**t on my ride home. And I was like, Wow, I’m a mile from home, and I almost got hit three times today in one of the most walkable communities in Cleveland — theoretically.”

It’s difficult to pin down how many Clevelanders get around by bicycle. However, the danger to two-wheeled travelers is clear, says Calley Mersmann, senior strategist of transport and mobility for the City of Cleveland.

In 2022, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reported more than 1,000 bicycle-related crashes in Cuyahoga County, seven of which were fatal; 13 more caused serious injury. And OSHP data shows pedestrians face just as much, if not higher risk. More than 20 died in Cuyahoga County last year; 85 were seriously injured.

Vision Zero Cleveland — a Swedish traffic safety system adopted by the city in September 2022 to identify traffic safety risks and bolster preventative measures — claimed that 68% of bike-related crashes showed no signs of the cyclist making a mistake that might have contributed to the incident, and in January and February of this year, local bicycle advocacy group Bike Cleveland reported more than 70 automotive crashes involving cyclists, says advocacy and policy manager Jenna Thomas.

Such stats dishearten those like Nosse or Thomas, who wonder why Cleveland isn’t doing more to protect them.

On occasion, a project pops up like the Superior Midway, a proposed 2.4 miles of protected bike lanes from East 55th Street to Public Square. This type of infrastructure, including extended curbs and speed tables, slows traffic down and often creates a buffer which further protects pedestrians.

Nonetheless, the Midway stalled out for a decade in the planning

Clevelanders of all walks of life gather for communal rides with Bike Cleveland and other groups.

stages, harangued by design issues and a lack of funding.

After gathering $19.6 million of grant money from organizations like the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency, the Superior Midway very nearly halted altogether in February, when Rep. Tom Patton (R-Strongsville) proposed a transportation budget amendment to House Bill 23, which would strip Cleveland of the ability to build bike lanes on city streets.

Patton cited concerns involving delivery and emergency services, like firefighters or UPS, that rely on the center lane of busy corridors to dodge traffic — a space the Superior Midway would take up.

Such initiatives, from massive infrastructural overhauls to smaller traffic-calming roundabouts and painted bike lanes, are necessary for connecting the city — yet the difficulty in approving and implementing those projects on a city level can feel more frustrating than uplifting, Nosse says.

A connected city, however, is one of Nosse's dreams. Walking into his business, the owner smiles at customers from behind the counter, standing in front of hundreds of parts, tools and accessories. Colorful stickers mark the counters and walls everywhere you look. On one wall sits shiny new bikes, ready for a seasoned rider needing fresh transportation or a newcomer delving into their next hobby. To the left of the front counter, bikes in need of repair hang upside down or next to the workbench. Nosse fixes those bent or broken by careless drivers.

“It’s scary especially when it starts getting busy out again, like in [summer],” says Zack Sapatka, an Ohio City resident and Joy Machines patron. “Sometimes you don’t know if people are just accidentally driving into the bike lane or if they’re trying to be ass****s.”

For that very reason, Bike Cleveland education and outreach manager Diana Hildebrand preaches the utmost safety with her friends, colleagues and the young students she takes for rides. “Keep your head on a swivel,” she reminds everyone.

As the ones at the most risk on the road, constant awareness is vital, she warns.

ADVOCATING FOR SAFE RIDERS

Bike Cleveland began, in part, as a response to situations like Nosse’s crash. Founded in 2011, the organization formed when several fragmented bicycle advocacy groups banded together for the sake of forming one strong voice.

Hildebrand wouldn’t join officially for nearly a decade, jumping aboard in March 2022 after taking up cycling as a hobby a few short years earlier — she needed an active replacement for the football she once played.

At 36 years old, Hildebrand hopped on Craigslist and bought a bike she describes as less than ideal.

“My children just thought it was crazy. I’m like ‘No, I’m getting this bicycle,’” Hildebrand remembers. “It was listed on Craigslist, $50, a man’s 1975 Schwinn road bike, steel and everything. But this bike had so many issues. I didn’t know that the bottom bracket was horrible, the tires were dry rotted, the wheels weren’t true anymore, the gear was messed up. But as a beginner, I didn’t know.”

Her first ride wasn’t much prettier.

“The next day, I was like, Oh, I’m going to put some air in the tires, and I’m going to go nohelmet, T-shirt, gym shoes. Eight miles took me three hours,” she says, exasperated. “Now, eight miles takes me 30-45 minutes.”

She toughed out that first out-

Local cyclists like Zach Sapatka, a patron of Joy Machines Bike Shop, can recall dozens of close calls with reckless drivers. It happens weekly, Sapatka says.

ting and stayed determined, continually improving her bike and attending workshops and group rides.

For this, Hildebrand credits a vibrant, supportive community that suddenly surrounded her.

After a while, the hobbyist-turned-instructor began hosting her own events, including a series of social justice rides for Breonna Tayor and George Floyd in 2020.

She eventually found her way to Bike Cleveland, participating in events and functions — executive director Jacob VanSickle even invited her to instruct on several occasions and, one day, offered Hildebrand her current full-time position as education and outreach manager.

For Hildebrand, cycling became a communal activity more than a hobby. And she's quick to protect the friends and local school children she now takes for rides.

"Keep your head on a swivel," she warns again, leary of drivers like the one that hit Nosse.

PROBLEM PERSISTS

Back at the Lorain-Fulton intersection, mere minutes from home and work, Nosse found himself face down and reeling on the asphalt

The bike owner and resident of one of Cleveland’s most walkable neighborhoods (according to local publications from Cleveland Magazine to Cleveland Scene) had just become one of the one thousand cyclists involved in a 2022 crash. He could have been one of eight dead.

Passing locals came over to help; the car that had stopped at the intersection pulled up with hazards flashing as Nosse gathered himself. He calmed down the folks getting ready to dial 911, picked up his bike and continued

home — too sore to ride but fairly certain nothing was broken. When he came through the door, his wife, Krissie, greeted him as if it were any other night.

“She was like, ‘Oh. Hey, what’s up?’ And I was like, ‘I just got hit by a car,’” Nosse responded. “I was in a lot of pain; she started to freak out … like anybody, was very concerned.”

“Okay, we need to get to the emergency room,” she urged. Kicking into gear, Krissie loaded her husband into the car, stressing that they should file a police report as they made their way to Cleveland Clinic — Lutheran Hospital.

An officer showed up directly at the ER. Nosse filed his report and even felt glad that law enforcement showed up in a timely manner. Despite the report, however, there wasn’t much they could do.

Nosse recalls instinctively looking up for the offending vehicle’s plate number after he hit the ground — they were already gone. The video that would later detail the crash remains just too blurry to identify the light-colored sedan.

As of this publication, Nosse still has no clue who hit and subsequently ran from him that night.

However, Jenna Thomas, Bike Cleveland’s advocacy and policy manager, notes that Nosse did something vital that night when he contacted the police, regardless of whether charges were pressed or not.

As advocates for safer bike infrastructure in the City of Cleveland, knowing how many Clevelanders suffer crashes every year helps relay the importance of Bike Cleveland’s cause.

Those reports also provide a snapshot of the problem areas around Cleveland, says Mersmann. With the adoption of the Vision Zero Action Plan, the city sets a high goal for itself: eliminating crash-related serious injuries and fatalities by 2032.

Just a few months before Vision Zero, in the summer of 2022, the city also enacted the Speed Table Pilot Program — setting up speed bumps in 10 residential locations to test the results of the traffic-calming measure.

The program then collects surveys from nearby residents and monitors neighboring street traffic. This helps officials like Mersmann understand whether locals see a positive difference, and if the new speed bumps cause an uptick in reckless driving down adjacent streets.

As the city works with Bike Cleveland and conducts its own research, long-awaited changes come into view.

In January of this year, the Cleveland City Council finally approved the fabled Superior Midway project and a resurfacing of Lorain Avenue — a long-awaited overhaul to cost around $54 million between both projects, but provide a 10-foot-wide, sidewalk-height track for twowheeled Clevelanders to safely make their way around. Picture an extra middle lane, visible-yet-separate as a corridor of trees and a 26-foot median act as a barrier.

The bike owner and resident of one of Cleveland’s most walkable neighborhoods had just become one of the one thousand cyclists involved in a crash in 2022. He could have been one of eight dead.

And Patton, who threatened to pull the rug out from the now-celebrating local cyclists, rescinded his amendment in lateFebruary, giving the city freedom to carry on.

“I was able to have conversations with Grace Gallucci, executive director of NOACA … to go over some of the issues surrounding the bike lanes amendment proposed in the transportation budget,” Patton says in a statement released by Bike Cleveland. “After our discussions surrounding first responders and other concerned parties, we have been

reassured that through the development of the plan these concerns will be addressed.”

Further assuaging planning concerns, the city and Bike Cleveland partnered together to apply for the help of a national nonprofit agency aimed at addressing issues related to planning, lobbying and stakeholder involvement.

City Thread, based in Denver, acts as a consultant for regions lacking connected public transit, primarily bike infrastructure. Cities they've affected include Austin, Denver, Pittsburgh, New Orleans and Providence, Rhode Island, which came together to build more than 300 miles of protected bike lanes under the organization's guidance — projects just like the Superior Midway.

City Thread did its initial visit to Cleveland in February and is currently in the phase of identifying and unifying proper stakeholders — local officials like Mersmann, cyclists, business owners and advocacy groups.

Before spring is over, the nonprofit should have an implementation guide ready for those pivotal stakeholders, including a budget, miles of bike lanes that should be implemented and their locations, and a recommendation for polling and information gathering.

However, a current campaign by Bike Cleveland serves almost as a warning, calling for the city to allot $500,000 in maintenance equipment — the bike paths are great for the community only so long as they are maintained, says Thomas — and the organization wants to see someone in Mersmann’s old role of Biking and Pedestrian Coordinator.

For the latter, the City of Cleveland opened a new position in March for an Active Transportation Planner. Through the winter, the new Transportation Infrastructure Advisory Committee — made of local advocates and agencies, including the Regional Transport Authority and Ohio Department of Transportation — was formed for the sake of reviewing infrastructure projects, and identifying challenges and pitfalls earlier in the planning process.

As for maintenance and budgeting, Clevelanders will likely see such topics addressed in the city’s upcoming Mobility Plan, expected to ar-

rive in May. The plan will look “at where we want bicycle connections to be, where we need pedestrian safety enhancements, etc.,” says Mersmann.

THERE'S MOMENTUM

Back in Ohio City, nearly a month after Nosse’s dance with a reckless driver, the still-sore bike shop owner slaps on a helmet and hops back on two wheels.

He isn’t nervous to get back on the road — this is his transportation; this is his life, he explains.

“Clevelanders’ reluctance to accept change that actually is good for everybody is an endless source of frustration for a lot of us,” he says. “I think at a certain point, you just need leadership that says, ‘We’re going to do the right thing. We’re going to make some changes here.’ And if it ruffles a few feathers [fine], but people will catch up and they’ll be okay. Especially if you can make strong decisions and say, ‘We’re making this decision in the interest of public safety for all.’”

With his head on a swivel, hope and exasperation tangle in Nosse’s mind. Once again, he turns toward the road home.

Jenna Thomas and Diana Hildebrand of Bike Cleveland embrace the lifestyle that fuels their advocacy. They both got their start at the nonprofit within the same couple of months.

Cordelia's Andrew Watts and Vinnie Cimino

The Cool Kids of Cleveland's Culinary Scene

May 2023

Best Restaurants

Edited by Dillon Stewart

Every dish, every plate, every bite has a story. A human story. Take the Burger Box at Cordelia, our 2023 reader-voted Best New Restaurant. Between the lines of a recipe that calls for neon-green pickles and crispy griddled cheese, you find executive chef Vinnie Cimino's journey from the defunct Greenhouse Tavern to pandemic pop-ups, selling an early iteration of that burger — and back to East Fourth Street. Food is an extension of those who cook it. At Cleveland's best restaurants, you taste the blood, sweat and tears of hardworking creatives whose dreams you're experiencing in real time. And there's nothing more delicious. Step inside Cleveland's best kitchens with us.

if ever there were big shoes to fill in Cleveland’s dining scene, they came in the form of the building on East Fourth Street that was once home to Lola Bistro, chef Michael Symon’s flagship restaurant. In the past year, though, Cordelia has filled those proverbial shoes so well that Lola’s reign feels like lifetimes ago.

While Cordelia describes its approach as “Midwest nice,” we just call it as some of the best food we’ve ever eaten. And the Cleveland Magazine readers agree, voting the restaurant from chef-partner Vinnie Cimino and partner Andrew Watts this year’s Best New Restaurant.

“We want to be in the forefront of Cleveland’s culinary scene, to help it continue to grow and flourish and to be better than when we left it,” says Cimino.

As former chef de cuisine of Greenhouse Tavern, which fell victim to chef Jonathon Sawyer’s debts, Cimino knows better than anyone how quickly Cleveland’s culinary scene can change — but also how loyal its diners are when they find a spot they love.

Aesthetically, it’s vintagecore at its finest, outfitted like your grandparents’ house meets your favorite consignment shop meets, well, a high-end restaurant designed by professionals. Think high-backed velvet chairs, mismatched plates, floral wallpaper and penny tile mosaic floors. Culinarily, it’s Midwest meets Deep South meets family picnic, if everyone in your family could really, really cook.

“We’ve conceptualized this moderngrandma, feed-your-family, gatheringaround-a-big-table and passing-it-allaround kind of experience,” says Watts.

“Pantry snacks” re-envision small plates ($9 apiece, three for $25 or five for $38) through comforting dishes like spreadable pimento cheese, served in a mini mason jar alongside deep-fried saltines. Global flavors — like furikake, the sweet and savory Japanese rice seasoning that tops the jammy eggs, or the herbaceous Middle Eastern za’atar that dusts the chicharrones — lend new verve to old favorites.

“We make the food that we like to cook for us and for our family and friends,” Cimino says. “We’re just sharing it with a bigger audience now.”

Each dish is born not just of intellectual culinary notions but of life experiences and personal nostalgia. For example, the

Cordelia

BY KATE BIGAM KAPUT

It’s Midwest meets Deep South meets family picnic, if everyone in your family could really, really cook.

(best new restaurant)

PHOTOS BY MEGANN GALEHOUSE AND COURTESY CORDELIA

burger box ($21) retains the crispy pieces of griddled cheese usually reserved as “kitchen snacks.” Cimino thought diners deserved to try them, too. The overdressed greens ($12) are a refined take on the cheese-heavy salads from Luigi’s in Akron, Cimino's hometown. The slush float dessert ($9) is a soft serve, slushie hybrid inspired by sous chef Ryan Boone’s post-skateboarding treat as a teen in Parma.

“A lot of it starts with some fun thing we remember,” Boone says, “and then we try to redo it in a way that meets the culinary standards we’ve all learned.”

Want to know the story behind your dish? Just ask and the staff will happily share it with you, especially if you’re seated at the chef’s table facing Cordelia’s open-concept kitchen. You’re also hear them calling out seemingly nonsensical phrases like “Sesame Street!” and other cooking-related rally cries. (This one signals that someone, somewhere, has ordered the fried chicken.)

“Everything has like a nickname,” Boone explains. “It keeps us quick and efficient, and it makes our nights fun.”

At the pass, he and Cimino inspect dishes before they’re delivered to diners, ensuring that everything looks exactly as it should. Rarely, though, does the duo send anything back, their presence just as much for camaraderie and team building as for quality control.

“Some nights I barely cook at all, maybe a spoon here or there to taste something,” Cimino says. “I lead our team through positivity and humility to try to create a beautiful experience for both our guests and our staff.”

For Boone, who was the executive chef of Greenhouse Tavern when it closed so abruptly, Cordelia’s feel-good, family-style environment is the kind of job dreams are made of.

“The culture is what makes it special,” Boone says. “I don’t know if it’s lightning in a bottle or serendipity or what, but it makes working in a restaurant feel like having a blast at a party with friends.” cordeliacle.com

Hingetown's Amba feels like stumbling into an upscale mob den — except with really good Indian food.

Lighting is minimal and soft pools of glowing orange punctuate every table. On the walls, sconces shift like a waxing eclipse against an all-black background. Driving music washes over patrons and servers, creating an ambient, instrumental drum beat of small plates and vibrant cocktails.

“We think that having fun in a space is such an important element of dining out,” says owner and restaurateur Douglas Katz. “We want to transport you out of your life in Cleveland into something really special and unique.”

We start with a drink. My palette welcomes the sweet, citrusy and floral notes of a gin-based mix simply labeled “a-2” ($14). Across from me, my fiancé sips a chai-infused creamy concoction of bourbon, mango puree and yogurt, the “a-5” ($14).

As far as food, two or three plates per person is usually safe. Order for the table; everyone is going to want a bit of everything.

The pace starts slow with clay bread ($5), a buttery flatbread served piping hot and easily torn. With it, we scoop up mouthfuls of spinach dip ($10) boasting a much deeper, floral flavor than Grandma ever made for a Super Bowl party.

Later, dishes akin to a main course mystify us as we share bites — ground lamb kofta ($18) with a rich flavor and bright pang of pickled shallot, crispy puris ($13) that taste like an elevated potato salad encased in a thin, wafer-like shell and Turkish fried eggs ($9) served with dill, yogurt and chili butter to create a wave of umami that coaxes your fork back for more.

By the time we, and four of our friends, are finished, we feel nearly too cozy to leave. Fullbellied under that glowing orange light, speaking loudly to cut through the music, the table feels comfortable and private in an at-capacity Ohio City dining room. ambacle.com

BY ANTHONY ELDER

PHOTO BY NICOLE STEFFEN

at first sight, it’s almost easy to get distracted by the “+ Goods” side of Cent’s Pizza — be it by the exotic variety of colorful Gueyu Mar fish tins and imported natural wines to your left, or the collection of boho New York streetwear and literature to your right.

But “almost” is the operative word here, because the aroma of rich cheeses and cured meats emanating from chef-owner Vincent Morelli’s kitchen smacks sense into you quickly. You’re here for pizza.

Or maybe you aren’t, instead driven to consider Cent’s compelling small plates. Despite the restaurant’s label of “snack,” you’ll fill up on stracciatella ($10), a savory, stringy mozzarella bathing in heavy cream and extra virgin olive oil, which pairs perfectly with the Wonder Bread ($8), puffy and shreddable after a pass through the wood-fire oven. If you’re getting down to business, the Cherry Pie ($20) doesn’t disappoint with its mix of sweet — ricotta cheese and Luxardo cherries — and salty hot soppressata.

Whichever menu route you choose, expect a communal experience where dining doesn’t step on a good time.

“All the things I grew up eating in an Italian family, like olives, cured meats and stuff, was always present at every family occasion,” Morelli says. “When people would show up, that stuff was all out to pick at until the pasta was ready. I’ve tried to keep it loose and not have anything that was gonna keep anyone preoccupied while they’re hanging out.”

Cent's Pizza

+ Goods

BY JACOB DESMIT PHOTOS COURTESY CENT'S PIZZA + GOODS

“...it’s very lifestyle-driven and where fashion is going.”

The influences seeping into the fabric of Morelli’s young business aren’t solely familial. The business’s wholesale operation stocks clothes, snacks and books that are hard to find anywhere else in Cleveland, an eclectic mix that reflects one of Morelli’s other passions: fashion.

On the path to completing Kent State University’s fashion merchandising program, Morelli began working for New York streetwear company 10 Deep Clothing, where he parlayed a summer internship into a six-year stint as a production and product development coordinator.

Calling his time with the brand a “high stress, high intensity” period that didn’t satisfy his desire to contribute to the creative side of fashion, Morelli found solace in entertaining friends and hosting dinner parties, gravitating toward serving ingredients with unique product packaging that caught his eye. This newfound hobby would eventually spur the blueprint for Cent’s.

“The idea originally was to open a grocery/ deli kind of spot that would incorporate

home goods and fashion items — not necessarily clothing but accessories,” Morelli says. “Little things that would be part of the lifestyle of somebody who would want to shop at that store.”

The shop’s contribution to Cent’s business ecosystem is small, but it’s all good. No, really — the “+ Goods” styling of the company’s official name is less of a throwaway tagline than a master plan.

Currently, this branding is mainly noticed at the back of the restaurant, where the door to the outdoor patio reads “Good Garden."

Morelli plans to expand into the owned property next door, which will house the “Good Deli.” He'll also relocate the shop, likely to keep the “+ Goods” moniker, to a different location on the property.

“That’s a lot of streetwear brands’ common goal — to have a clothing brand that can do other things,” Morelli says. “To have a fashion store paired with a restaurant or coffee shop, it’s very lifestyle-driven and where fashion is going."

Until those plans come to fruition, the stylish charm of the Cent’s brand is in its atmosphere. Colorful strobe lights bounce off of original “Cent’s-centric” art in the backroom, while Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas entertains on a projector up front. The sound mixer at the center of the shop mainly handles each evening’s playlists, but it’s not unheard of for artists passing through the city to take over and host latenight dance parties.

Morelli’s making moves to keep his business fresh. For now, that means promoting a sous chef to share kitchen duties, freeing the owner’s time for things like planning the company’s expansion. In staking its claim as the neighborhood’s trendiest pizzeria, Cent’s shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. centspizza.com

jaja —

There’s no more sumptuous seat in the city than these pink velvet chairs at golden hour. Sunlight softly illuminates artful dishes and imaginative cocktails. With vines twining above and tropical details all around, the atmosphere is peaceful and serene, even enchanted, in contrast to the grit of the city below. And the Argentinian-inspired food, of course, is top-notch.

That shared passion for precision led Nora O’Malley, chief operations officer of parent company Harbor Bay Hospitality, to join forces with owner Dan

Whalen and executive chef Brian Whalen (yes, they’re brothers). The restaurant occupies the roof level of Ohio City’s Intro building, and they also manage first-floor ventures Pioneer, a camping-themed sports bar, and Edda, a chic cafe and coffee roaster.

Though the building itself may seem steely and uber-corporate, the staff’s sentiments are far from it.

“Everyone sees this big, shiny facade,” O’Malley says. “We want them to know that there are real people behind it.”

Maybe that’s why Jaja itself feels so eclectic, melding European and South American flavors in an upscale-meets-chill Midwestern sensibility. Though technically a steakhouse (and don’t skips the steaks — they’re incredible), Jaja has become beloved for its imaginative seafood dishes. Brian prides himself on using familiar ingredients to expand Midwestern palates in dishes like the jumbo seared scallops with pillowy cauliflower gnocchi and chimichurri ($30) or potatoscaled halibut with caramelized leeks ($28).

As the weather warms, expect seasonal flavors and local produce. But many dishes will remain as they are, including favorites like burrata with candied lemons ($18) and smoked eggplant spread ($15), a can’t-miss small plate that spreads like silk across charred bread.

If you haven’t yet been able to snag a reservation, you’ll soon have more options. This spring, Jaja opens its 45-seat patio.

“We don’t like to think of this place as exclusive,” Brian says, “but it’s definitely become a hot spot, and we’re just really excited for what’s coming next.” jajacleveland.com

BY KATE BIGAM KAPUT

PHOTO BY MARINA GOLDI

Sérénité Restaurant

& Culinary Institute

todd Whitman didn’t always make the best choices. Growing up at West 44th Street and Clark Avenue in the ‘80s — he fell into trouble with alcohol and drugs and spent six years in juvenile and adult correctional institutions.

Over the years, he made what he deems as addiction-fueled “selfish” decisions that led his life down a dangerous path. But that all changed when Whitman began the journey to recovery in August 2015.

Today as executive chef of Sérénité Restaurant & Culinary Institute, Whitman’s choices look much different. He’s weighing how many du jour items to add to the restaurant’s robust French-inspired menu and selecting which recipes to teach to his students — all of whom are in recovery, just like him.

Sérénité Restaurant & Culinary Institute launched in 2018 in downtown Medina as a nonprofit dining experience and education organization, to provide training programs to formerly incarcerated individuals in conjunction with the Recovery Center of

Medina. Trainees enter an eight-month program, where they learn concepts like culinary math, knife skills, pastry-making and the five mother sauces of French cuisine.

When students graduate (and 78% of students do), they’re celebrated by prominent county judges and Medina Mayor Dennis Hanwell with a special ceremony. Graduates are then assisted with job placement at some of the finest restaurants in Cleveland, including Sérénité Restaurant itself.

“I [could] never do anything in addiction because it suffocated my thought process,” Whitman says. “When that stuff is lifted, the sky is the limit. People are amazing if they put their mind to it.”

If the concept seems familiar — that’s because it is. Whitman is a graduate of Edwin’s Leadership & Restaurant Institute, the brainchild of Brandon Chrostowski. Edwin’s also provides culinary and service training to former prisoners and recovering addicts and operates an upscale restaurant in Shaker Heights. Chrostowski founded and assisted with the opening of Sérénité in the early years. He eventually called Whitman in 2018 — who was working as a lead line cook at Parker’s downtown — to see if he’d be interested in a sous chef position at Sérénité.

Whitman immediately jumped on the opportunity and worked under chef Gilbert Brenot from Les Landes, France, learning dishes such as escargot ($14), braised rabbit ($34) and cassoulet ($36).

During the pandemic, chef Brenot moved on, and Whitman was

BY CASSIE TOMASELLI PHOTOS BY DANIEL LOZADA

That desire for an elevated dining experience has come back with a bang.

promoted to the executive chef position. It was an exciting but challenging time. The community just wasn’t into French fine dining for to-go orders, so Whitman shifted to offer a few more what he calls “regular” items to the menu to keep the doors open, such as chicken marsala, ahi tuna and wings. Some items, like the wings, were a hit and remain on the menu.

That desire for an elevated dining experience has come back with a bang, with customers averaging $75 per meal, Whitman says, and for good reason.

Patrons of Sérénité are instantly immersed into an upscale yet down-to-earth atmosphere when they enter the renovated 19th century building. The dining rooms’ deep gray walls hold goldframed artwork. The ceilings are adorned with traditional-yetmodern chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling drapes and classic architectural accents collectively suspend you in time between current and historic.

The authentic kindness and passionate service from general manager Cary Granakis permeates through the entire staff as they explain with near giddiness the preparation of dishes like trout almondine ($32), two enormous filets on a bed of whipped potatoes, or the cherry jubilee ($12), a dessert staple with a subtle hit of citrus. Kyre Marshall, who graduated from the institute after serving prison time in 2017 and has worked at Sérénité for three years, just celebrated her one-year anniversary as sous chef in March.

“I honestly want to say I’m glad that I did get in trouble because I’m grateful for everything that chef Todd has taught me … and very excited to be here,” Marshall says. “Everything is going good and is just getting better and better and better.” sereniterestaurant.com

cilantro taqueria —

Every city needs a late-night taco joint. Bonus points if it’s next to one of the best music venues in town. Thank you, Cilantro Taqueria, for fueling post-Grog Shop concerts with your cheap, beloved menu of tacos, beers and bomb-ass elotes.

It’s no wonder that the shop has found quick fans in Northeast Ohio, expanding with four additional locations in Lakewood, Shaker Heights, North Olmsted and Chesterland.

Nights of debauchery usually call for greasy carbs, and sure, you can get that kind of thing at Cilantro. But dig deeper into the menu and you’ll find some flavorful, authentic eats lurking there.

Always, always start with the elote: If you’re feeling feisty, opt for the Hot Cheetos coating ($4.50). Beyond beers, the fruity peach frozen margarita ($8.99) impresses – as does the freshly muddled minty mojito ($8.99). Or, opt for a creamy, lightly sweetened horchata ($3) instead.

We recommend the build-your-own tacos ($3.99+). Customize to your liking with chicken tinga, shrimp, al pastor and carnitas and toppings like mango pico de gallo, salsa verde, queso, cheese and, of course, the restaurant’s namesake — cilantro. Quesabirria tacos ($13.99 for 3) are also available, with dunks into a slightly spicy consomme giving a nice finishing touch.

Cilantro’s dessert options don’t disappoint either. Chocoflan ($6) gives a rich cocoa flavor base to the Hispanic dessert, and the tres leches cake ($7) is a creamy, scrumptious final bite.

Inside Cilantro’s first location, you’ll see hints of its former life as a Chipotle. The restaurant reused much of the furniture and built-in decor, likely keeping costs low when it moved into the Coventry space.

But those costs translate to the customer experiences, too. A big meal at Cilantro Taqueria won’t break the bank. It’ll taste good. And, best yet, it’ll always be there for you until 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. cilantrotaqueria.com

BY ANNIE NICKOLOFF PHOTO COURTESY CILANTRO TAQUERIA

at Alea, chef-owner Athan Zarnas asks a very important question: "Why not try six items as opposed to three?" He makes a good point, especially when faced with the menu of grilled Mediterranean fare he launched in Hingetown in 2019.

The restaurant’s small team of six, four of whom are part-time, brings high-end cuisine experience with it. Chefs tend to the restaurant’s wood fire grill, a focal point of the open kitchen and chef’s counter, all of which adds a homey vibe when paired with the high ceilings and steel girders of the 33-seat restaurant, a former drill-bit factory, at 2912 Church Ave.

Zarnas, who is Greek and was born and raised in Cleveland, borrows ideas from all around that historic sea. Inspired by global cuisine, the chef is excited by fresh ingredients and fresh concepts. “When are the grilled oysters coming back?” has been a common refrain among patrons, Zarnas says. When he released the spring menu, however, the oysters were raw. The idea of change has been baked into the restaurant since the beginning.

He says he likes when guests can recognize some dish components. “But ideally, there are elements of that dish from all over the Mediterranean region, possibly even Asia, sort of blurring the lines between, ‘What is Asian?’ ‘What is Italian?’ ‘What is North African?’” he says. “I mean, there’s a fine line between a dumpling and a ravioli.”

If diners aren’t up for sharing and want to go the traditional appetizer-entree-dessert route, that’s fine, too.

We visited during the winter menu, and Zarnas says something like the fried Chicken Milanese ($28), a favorite of that

BY PATRICK WILLIAMS

COURTESY ALEA

The idea of change has been baked into Alea since the beginning.

PHOTOS BY DANIEL LOZADA AND

BY KATE BIGAM KAPUT

PHOTO BY HEATHER LINN YOUNG

Pinecrest’s most eclectic eatery is riding the high of being named our 2022 Best New Restaurant by putting out dishes that are as delightfully (and deliciously) mismatched as ever.

“We’re a globally inspired, modern American concept not really bound by a certain type of cuisine,” says chef Brad Race, head of culinary, who ran buzzy hotspots in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., before relocating to Cleveland. “We pull influences from all over the world.”

And he really means that. It’s rare to see a menu that includes such disparate dishes as carne asada with queso fresco ($38), broken egg fried rice with kimchi ($18), rigatoni in a spicy vodka sauce ($24), and juicy fried chicken sliders ($18) all at once. Here, though, it works perfectly, no mediocre dishes slipping onto the menu just because they have to be there. At the Last Page, everything is the best version of itself because that's what the chefs want.

“For us, it’s an open sandbox on everything, start to finish,” says executive chef Logan Abbe, an Elyria native and one-time Jonathon Sawyer protege.

That includes the desserts and cocktails that are as intricate and expressive — like a play on tres leches cake made with Japanese cassata and fresh strawberries ($16), or the Sour Patch ($15), a fruity sipper made with Brazilian cachaca and a tangy candied rim.

As a scratch kitchen, nearly everything is made in-house, down

the last page —

to the butter. And though the ingredients are always high-quality and fresh, the menu changes not based on seasonality but on diner feedback and the chefs’ creative whims, For Abbe, this uncommon approach to food offers continue opportunities to experiment and iterate.

“We get to try all these exciting techniques that curate a sense of education and evolution,” he says, “and we carry them to the finish line every day for our guests to enjoy in their final form.” thelastpagerestaurant.com

The Lamb "Ssam" For Two ($64) is a dish that pulls from different directions. The fan favorite, served with grains, will return to Alea’s spring menu after a hiatus.

“We braise whole legs of lamb with a lot of spices, we pull it, and we serve it with a bowl of bejeweled ancient grains that have dried currants, some pistachios in them, and those are spiced as well,” Zarnas says.

The restaurant pairs all that with whole lettuce leaves, fresh herbs, yogurt, chili oil and pickles. The chef-owner says it’s his unique take on the Korean dish.

“It’s mostly Middle Eastern flavors, but it’s presented in a way that’s traditionally Korean, in the form of ssam, which are lettuce wraps that you make at the table,” Zarnas says.

season's offerings, probably represents a conventional one-person dish more than any other item; it was served with Meyer lemon, aioli, and a little gems salad featuring herbs, dill flower, radish, shallot and a dijon vinaigrette. Other highlights from the winter menu: broccolini cooked on an open flame and served with taleggio cheese, pear and walnut ($16) and, for dessert, the jiggly, full-on sweet parsnip panna cotta, featuring maple syrup and buckwheat ($14). The menu has always featured a panna cotta.

Zarnas calls his dish development process a form of “culinary algebra,” pairing ingredients in novel ways and discerning what’s missing, then incorporating it into the mix. The word “alea,” he says, means a roll of the dice.

Alea also offers a Sunday brunch menu that rotates seasonally, though Zarnas says he retains staple items from menu to menu such as the egg sandwich ($14) with mortadella, dijonnaise and American cheese, and the Dutch Baby ($20), a large pancake served with banana, foie butter and maple syrup.

Though he puts a modern spin on his dishes, Zarnas says some guests have found flavors bring back old memories.

“We have had guests who have told us that they've felt as if they were sort of transported to a place or a time after trying some of our dishes,” he says. “We’ve heard feedback like, ‘I haven’t tasted this since my grandmother made it for me.'” aleacle.com

in Cleveland, weekend mornings are for brunch – long lines of customers waiting for tables at packed restaurants, for servings of pancakes and avocado toasts and bloody marys and mimosas.

A relative newcomer to the scene arrived in April 2022 in the form of Juneberry Table. It only took a year for the Karen Small-owned spot to quickly skyrocket to becoming one of the most talked-about breakfast-brunch spots in town.

So, yes: Be prepared for that long line. On a Saturday in March, we killed a solid 55 minutes for two spots at the bar. Later, those times lengthened; new customers signed up for hour or two-hour waits.

But to be abundantly clear, the wait is well worth it.

Here, chef-owner Small draws on her earliest inspirations from her first professional experiences cooking and learning to preserve, butcher and homestead in Southern Ohio, in the foothills of Appalachia.

“They grew their own food, preserved their

Juneberry

own food, used what was locally sourced or grown,” Small says. “It influenced my cooking early on. I think the simplicity of what we do there, using products that are almost strictly Ohio-based, is where the menu developed from.”

But how did Small, who became best-known in Cleveland for her 23 years in fine-dining, primarily at the Flying Fig, make the switch to breakfast sandwiches and biscuits and gravy?

It turns out it wasn’t that big of a departure; it was more of a homecoming.

“I had a breakfast restaurant years and years ago outside Chagrin Falls, and it’s full-circle back to that,” Small says. “It was truly one of the ways that I really started making what I did in the kitchen my own. Even though it evolved into fine dining and dinner, it was always there.”

You’ll find that ethos in Juneberry’s elevated, yet back-to-basics menu — and you’ll find it from the very first bite of a buttery, fluffy-yet-crunchy cheddar and chive biscuit ($4). Don’t save the fellow must-try salted honey pie ($7.50) for dessert; the

BY ANNIE NICKOLOFF PHOTOS BY KARIN MCKENNA

One of the most talked-about breakfastbrunch spots in town.

creation from local baker Annabella Andricks (Dramatic Snax) holds all the best caramelized flavors from a pecan pie, replacing the corn syrup base with a light, creamy filling.

A careful menu of natural wines meets a slim selection of basic cocktails named after their hues. The spicy Red ($10) is a classic bloody mary, topped with two olives, and the sweet Pink ($11) is a light take on a blizzard, perfect for sipping alongside the restaurant’s filling fare.

A true marker of excellence at any breakfast-focused restaurant is its breakfast sandwich, and Juneberry’s version of the classic ($12) is wonderful in its simplicity. A light spread of house-made “comeback” sauce and a hint of sweetness from a few thick slices of sorghum bacon add small flavorful undertones to the cheddar egg and fluffy bun.

Another marker of a solid brunch spot comes in the form of Juneberry’s diner burger ($14). We recommend splurging an extra $2 for an egg on top; a runny yolk paired with jammy caramelized onions and a juicy patty makes for an ensemble fitting for either a brunch or lunch meal.

For a less carby option, the salad bowl ($14) still gives a breakfast nod with slices of glazed bacon, lending the mix a sweet-salty kick. Vegetarians can find a packed-with-flavor harissa-spiced eggplant sandwich ($14), topped with sun-dried tomatoes between two slices of za’atar focaccia.

Sunlight fills the small restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling front window, as diners toss down their napkins, slurp up the last few sips of coffee, and cycle out for a new batch of ever-present hungry customers in a line that — though, yes, lengthy — has found efficient service in the year that Juneberry’s been open.

That year of success follows years of uncertainty, of coronavirus lockdowns and pandemic-related restaurant restrictions and supply shortages; all the curveballs a small business must face these days. But after confronting all that, Small has managed to find a neighborhood and a city warmly embracing her spot on this developing stretch of Lorain Avenue in Ohio City.

“Something kept me from giving up on it. It would have been easy to walk away from it,” Small says. “I find after years of doing fine dining and really loving it, that it’s just time, at least for me, for a more relaxed approach to food.”

“I wanted things to be a little bit simpler,” she adds, “and Juneberry is a result of that.” juneberrycle.com

rood food and pie —

Come for the ‘70s vibes, stay for the pie. Neon lights, fun florals and eclectic comfort food — Lakewood’s Rood Food and Pie creates a funky environment that exudes joy from start to finish.

More than just the friendly decor, which even boasts a trailer camper bar, that joy is derived from executive chef Rachelle Murphy’s excitement for experimentation. The 24-year-old trained at the Culinary Institute of Michigan and was mentored by Amanda Miller of Netflix’s School of Chocolate

Since joining Rood in 2021, Murphy has since transformed the menu with unique ingredients incorporated into an approachable dish. Pigeon? Throw it in a wellington! Wild boar? Best served over ragu pasta. Each offering contains some comfort food element. The sweet and salty Pumpkin Gnocchi ($23) is made fresh daily with maple syrup-infused ricotta, and combined walnut dukkha, sage, brown butter, white balsamic and candied bacon. The gnocchi are seared right out of the water, leaving a crunchy exterior and pillowy, melt-in-your-mouth interior.

Even the plating is intentional with dishes varying in styles, sizes, textures and colors — from silver-blue glazed ceramic to lightweight floral-etched dishes.

“People hate me in the kitchen because we have different plates for each different dish,” Murphy giggles. Yet, she insists that “everybody eats with their eyes first,” so visuals are important.

Murphy shares that people often become friends with folks at the tables sitting next to them — which was true during our recent visit, as well. We quizzed the guests next to us about their favorite pie flavor, who — mouths full — nearly shouted “amaretto custard!” Another crowd-pleasing option is the baklava pie ($7.50), served with rosemary whipped cream.

You’ll leave with a belly full of all the makings of feel-good evening. rfpie.com

BY CASSIE TOMASELLI

BY KEN BLAZE

PHOTO

there haven't been many years like 2022. After a decade kicked off by closings, our dining scene is finally moving in the right direction again — and just in time to update our list of Best Restaurants for 2023. With the addition of Amba to our list of musteats, chef Douglas Katz solidifies himself as the reigning king of Cleveland's culinary scene, while Cent's Pizza + Goods' addition confirms Cleveland as a pizza town. Once again, here is the big list of Cleveland's 34 best restaurants.

Cleveland's Best Restaurants

CILANTRO TAQUERIA

$ / Multiple locations

Five locations, cilantrotaqueria.com

ACQUA DI LUCA

$$$$ / West

216-329-0700, 500 W. St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, acquadiluca.com

ALEA

$$$ / West

216-912-8890, 2912 Church Ave., Cleveland, aleacle.com

CLEVELAND BAGEL CO.

$ / Multiple locations

216-600-5652, Ohio City and Midtown, clebagelco.com

CLOAK AND DAGGER

$$ / West

216-795-5657, 2399 W. 11th St. Cleveland, cloakanddaggercle.com

AMBA

$$$$ / West

216-417-6718, 1430 W. 28th St., Cleveland, ambacle.com

ASTORIA CAFE AND MARKET

$$$ / West

216-266-0834, 5417 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, astoriacafemarket.com

CENT’S PIZZA + GOODS

$$ / West

216-862-6427, 5010 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, centspizza.com

CORDELIA

$$$$ / Downtown

216-230-2355, 2058 E. 4th St., Cleveland, cordeliacle.com

EDWINS RESTAURANT

$$$ / North

216-921-3333, 13101 Shaker Square, Cleveland, edwinsrestaurant.org

FAT CATS

$$ / South

216-579-0200, 2061 W. 10th St., Cleveland, fatcatstremont.com

GINKO

$$ / South

216-274-1202, 2247 Professor Ave. B, Cleveland, danteboccuzzi.com/ginko-restaurant

AVERAGE ENTREE

$ = under $12

$$ = $12-$21

$$$ = $21-$30

$$$$ = over $30

HABESHA ETHIOPIAN AND ERITREAN

$$ / West

216-400-6539, 16860 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, habeshacle.com

IL RIONE

$$ / West

216-282-1451, 1303 W. 65th St., Cleveland, ilrionepizzeria.com

LARDER DELICATESSEN AND BAKERY

$$ / West

216-912-8203, 1455 W. 29th St., Cleveland, larderdb.com

THE LAST PAGE

$$$ / East

216-465-1008, 100 Park Ave. #128, Orange, thelastpagerestaurant.com

LJ SHANGHAI

$$ / East

216-400-6936, 3142 Superior Ave., Cleveland, ljshanghaicle.com

MABEL’S BBQ

$$ / Various locations

216-417-8823, 216-450-1010, 2050 E. Fourth St., Cleveland; 28699 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, mabelsbbq.com

ROOD FOOD AND PIE

$$$$ / West

216-712-4506, 17001 Madison Ave., Lakewood, rfpie.com

SABOR MIAMI CAFE AND GALLERY

$$ / South

440-714-0202, 4848 Broadview Road, Cleveland, facebook.com/sabormiamicafe

JAJA

$$$ / West

216-998-5353, 2050 Gehring Ave., Cleveland, jajacleveland.com

JUNEBERRY TABLE

$$ / West

216-331-0338, 3900 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, juneberrytable.com

L’ALBATROS BRASSERIE & BAR

$$$$ / East

216-791-7880, 11401 Bellflower Road, Cleveland, albatrosbrasserie.com

LA PLAZA SUPERMARKET AND TAQUERIA

$ / West

216-476-8000-13609 Lakewood Heights Blvd., Cleveland, plazasupermarket.com

MARBLE ROOM STEAKS & RAW BAR

$$$$ / Downtown

216-523-7000, 623 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, marbleroomcle.com

MASON’S CREAMERY

$ / West

216-762-1095, 4401 Bridge Ave., Cleveland, masonscreamery.com

MOMOCHO

$$ / West

216-694-2122, 1835 Fulton Road, Cleveland, momocho.com

THE POMPADOUR BAR & TAPAS

$$$ / East

440-639-0263, 320 High St., Fairport Harbor, thepompadourbar.com

SALT

$$$ / West

216-221-4866, 17625 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, saltcleveland.com

SERENITE RESTAURANT & CULINARY INSTITUTE

$$$$ / South

330-952-2611, 538 W. Liberty St., Medina, sereniterestaurant.com

SUPERIOR PHO

$$ / East

216-781-7462, 3030 Superior Ave., Cleveland, superiorpho.com

THYME TABLE

$$$$ / West

440-617-6964, 583 Dover Center Road, Bay Village, thymextable.com

VERO

$$$ / East

216-229-8383, 12421 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, verocleveland.com

ZHUG

$$ / East

216-862-2508, 12413 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, zhugcle.com

ETHIOPIAN AND ERITREEAN: ALEJANDRO VERGARA / JAJA: MARINA GOLDI / MARBLE ROOM STEAKS & RAW BAR: HEATHER LINN YOUNG

SALT: NICOLE STEFFEN

& Culinary Institute

BREAD

1. On the Rise Artisan Bread

2. Blackbird Baking Co.

3. Breadsmith

CHEESE

1. Astoria Marketplace & Cafe

2. Sérénité Restaurant & Culinary Institute

3. Heinen’s Grocery Store

PASTRY

1. Luna Bakery & Cafe

2. Blackbird Baking Co.

3. Corbo’s Bakery

COFFEE

1. Rising Star Coffee Roasters

2. Phoenix Coffee

3. Duck-Rabbit Coffee

VIEW

1. Pier W

2. Luca Italian Cuisine

3. 17 River Grille

OUTDOOR DINING

1. Lago East Bank

2. Astoria Marketplace & Cafe

3. Tavern Six Kirtland

DELI

1. Larder Delicatessen and Bakery

2. Jack’s Deli & Restaurant

3. Corky and Lenny’s

SANDWICHES

1. Herb’n Twine

2. Larder Delicatessen and Bakery

3. Slyman’s Restaurant

SOUPS

1. Souper Market

2. Sérénité Restaurant & Culinary Institute

3. Zoup! Fresh Soup Co.

VEGAN/VEGETARIAN

1. The Green Kitchen at Little Rose

2. Cleveland Vegan

3. Tommy’s Restaurant

BEER SELECTION

1. Winking Lizard Tavern

2. Buckeye Beer Engine

3. Fat Heads Brewery K

WINE SELECTION

1. Sérénité Restaurant & Culinary Institute

2. Lago East Bank

3. Cru Uncorked rewer

As Selected by Cleveland Magazine Readers

BREWERY

1. Great Lakes Brewing Co.

2. Fat Heads Brewery

3. Saucy Brew Works

GASTROPUB

1. Pub Frato

2. Tremont Taphouse

3. Buckeye Beer Engine

COCKTAILS

1. Cloak & Dagger

2. The Last Page

3. Cordelia

WINE STORE

1. Rozi’s Wine House

2. The Wine Spot

3. Flight Cleveland

SPORTS BAR

1. Winking Lizard Tavern

2. Pioneer

3. Merry Arts Pub & Grille

HAPPY HOUR

1. Lago East Bank

2. Rood Food and Pie

3. The Last Page

APPETIZERS/

SMALL PLATES

1. Sérénité Restaurant & Culinary Institute

2. The Last Page

3. The Pompadour

BRUNCH

1. The Green Kitchen at Little Rose Tavern

2. The Last Page

3. Lago East Bank

DESSERTS

1. Rood Food and Pie

2. Thyme Table

3. Cordelia

BARBECUE/RIBS

1. Mabel’s BBQ

2. Smokin’ Q’s BBQ and Beer House

3. Woodstock BBQ

SUSHI

1. Ginko

2. Sora

3. Pacific East Japanese Restaurant

BURGERS

1. Heck’s Cafe

2. Gunselman’s Tavern

3. Hook & Hoof

BAGELS

1. Cleveland Bagel Co.

2. Cocky’s Bagels

3. Bialy’s Bagels

PIZZA

1. Il Rione Pizzeria

2. Angelo’s Pizza

3. Cents Pizza & Goods

AFRICAN

1. Zoma Ethiopian Restaurant

2. Empress Taytu Ethiopian Restaurant

3. Primo Africa Cuisine

CARIBBEAN

1. Irie Jamaican Kitchen

2. Taste of Jamaica

3. Twisted Taino

CENTRAL EUROPEAN

1. Hofbrauhaus Cleveland

2. Das Schnitzel Haus

3. Der Braumeister Restaurant

CHINESE

1. King Wah

2. LJ Shanghai

3. Li Wah

FRENCH

1. Sérénité

INDIAN

1. Amba

2. Cafe Tandoor

3. India Garden

ITALIAN

1. Luca Italian Cuisine

2. Giovanni’s Pizza

3. Flour

JAPANESE

1. Sora

2. Ginko Restaurant

3. Pacific East Japanese Restaurant

MEXICAN

1. Cozumel Mexican Restaurant

2. La Plaza Supermarket

3. Blue Habanero

MIDDLE EASTERN

1. Aladdin’s Eatery

2. Taza — A Lebanese Grill

3. Zhug

PUERTO RICAN/LATIN

1. Barroco Arepa Bar and Concert Cafe

2. Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar

3. Rincon Criollo Cleveland

SOUL FOOD

1. Zanzibar Soul Fusion

2. Southern Cafe

3. Angie’s Soul Cafe

SPANISH

1. Mallorca

2. Sangria y Tapas

3. Twisted Taino

THAI

1. Thai Thai

2. Peppermint Thai Cuisine

3. Banana Blossom Thai Cuisine

VIETNAMESE/CAMBODIAN

GREEK

1. Superior Pho

2. #1 Pho

3. Phnom Penh

Restaurant & Culinary Institute

2. L’Albatros Brasserie and Bar

3. Chez Francois

1. Astoria Marketplace & Cafe

2. Greek Village Grille

3. Taki’s Greek Kitchen

We Journey Together

CONQUERING ARTHRITIS, IMPROVING LIVES

Thanks to Champions like Ian Hochstetler and Evette Holloway, the Arthritis Foundation is making progress against this disease and lifting up those who live with it.

What You Don’t Know About Arthritis

There’s More to Arthritis Than You Might Think

If you’re like most people, you think of arthritis as an inevitable part of aging — something your grandparents have. But arthritis can strike at any age — even infants. It is painful and keeps people from doing what they love. And if it’s not caught early and treated effectively, it can be disabling and even life-threatening. In fact, arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States, and there is not yet a cure.

The Arthritis Foundation is working to conquer arthritis and provides support and resources for the nearly 60 million adults and 300,000 children in the U.S. with this complex disease.

Read on to meet Ian Hochstetler, who was diagnosed at age 12, and Silver Spoon Awards party volunteer Evette Holloway. Learn how the Arthritis Foundation is fighting the disease and discover our resources to help people live well despite arthritis.

FACTS:

58+ MILLION

Americans with arthritis

300,000 children in the U.S. with arthritis

1.3 MILLION

Northeast Ohioans have arthritis — enough to fill First Energy Stadium more than 19 times

12,000 children in Northeast Ohio live with arthritis

Celebrate the Silver Spoon Awards Party

Toast the tastes of Cleveland and support the Arthritis Foundation.

Local foodies look forward to it every year. The Silver Spoon Awards party celebrates the best of Cleveland’s chefs and restaurants with a delicious and festive evening — all for a great cause: the Arthritis Foundation’s work to conquer arthritis and support those who live with it. Now in its 27th year, Silver Spoon has raised over $2.5 million for the fight against arthritis.

Evette Holloway has been working behind the scenes for six years at Silver Spoon, which usually sells out. She got involved because of her love of food, but when she saw that it benefits the Arthritis Foundation, she was hooked because it struck close to home. “I wanted to do something that was near and dear to my heart,” she says.

Holloway’s mother, a nurse for 34 years, has arthritis in both hands that’s so painful that she and her husband left their Cleveland home to winter in Arizona. It is now their permanent residence. And Holloway’s cousin, now in his late 30s, was diagnosed in his early 20s with psoriatic arthritis, which has left his hands and feet disfigured.

Holloway started as a volunteer, then became a planning committee member. Now, she’s also on the Arthritis

Foundation’s local board of directors, committed to bringing support and resources to the 1.3 million people — including 12,000 children — living with arthritis in Northeast Ohio.

The Silver Spoon Awards party celebrates Northeast Ohio’s best restaurants. Finalists are those who receive top votes in Cleveland Magazine’s poll.

“All the restaurants get really excited,” Holloway says. They showcase their best dishes, and people attending can sample from each of the participating restaurants as well as from international wineries participating.

“The Silver Spoon event is a tradition. It’s a way to broaden your palate, meet new people and bring awareness to the Arthritis Foundation,” Holloway adds. “The ultimate goal is to bring awareness to arthritis, bring in as many people as we can to be part of such a wonderful event and highlight the Arthritis Foundation and what we stand for to bring a cure for people who are suffering.”

Learn more about volunteer opportunities with the Arthritis Foundation by visiting arthritis.org/volunteer, or contact your local office at arthritis.org/localoffices/oh­cleveland.

Ian Hochstetler: An Arthritis Champion

Juvenile arthritis is a family affair for the Hochstetlers — and so is giving back.

Ian Hochstetler hated swimming when he was little, instead, throwing himself into soccer while his sister excelled on the swim team. Now a high school senior, Hochstetler is co-captain of his swim team, which he helped lead to the district championships. But the journey to get there wasn’t easy.

Diagnosed at age 12 with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), he was unable to walk at one point, and he spent his freshman year in a full torso brace to correct his curving spine.

Double Diagnosis

When his ankles and knees started hurting, he blamed soccer. “I just figured it was something that everyone went through,” he recalls. “Then one day it just flared up really bad.”

His mother, Ella Hochstetler, clearly remembers that day. “He literally was crawling on his hands — because he couldn’t put any pressure on his knees and ankles — into our bedroom, just crying that he couldn’t walk. It was really scary,” she recalls. They never suspected arthritis. “We had no idea that this was something that could even happen to kids.”

Around the same time, his spine started curving. Giving up soccer was bad enough, but now he was starting high school with arthritis and the brace for scoliosis. He always wore sweatshirts to hide it.

“It was really bulky and plastic and it made me feel different from everyone,” he says. “Going into freshman year, I just stayed quiet. I always asked to be [seated] in the back corner of the class. I didn’t like people sitting behind me because I didn’t want them knowing about the brace.”

“It’s very difficult to watch your child struggle, be in pain and not be able to take it away,” his mother says. “Also, it was extremely hard because we knew this was very likely to be a lifetime thing he was going to deal with.”

Hochstetler quickly got care at Akron Children’s Hospital with help from a nurse practitioner who took the family under her wing. After trying several medications, he found a biologic that has his JIA well controlled.

Soccer wasn’t an option, so he reluctantly joined the swim team, knowing it would help his arthritis. With support from his older sister, Haley, he was welcomed onto the team and excelled.

Getting Support and Giving Back

The nurse practitioner introduced them to the Arthritis Foundation, which “was great in pointing us to resources and getting us involved in a community that was supportive,” says his mother.

They started volunteering with the Jingle Bell Run, and Hochstetler attended JA camp.

“It was probably the nicest group of people I’ve ever met. They were extremely supportive and accommodating. There wasn’t a single kid there my age who felt bad for themselves or wanted to sit out because they couldn’t do it,” he says. “It was definitely a life-changing experience for me.”

The Hochstetlers continue participating in Jingle Bell Run; Hochstetler was the honoree in 2018 and a spokesperson in 2022. His mother and father, Derrick, serve on the Foundation’s local leadership board. Hochstetler is helping other kids with JA, and he plans to continue Jingle Bell Run and mentoring when he’s in college.

“At the time I got diagnosed with scoliosis, it seemed like that on top of the arthritis diagnosis, I kept thinking, ‘Why me?’” Hochstetler recalls. Now, he says, “This is why I was picked, because I want to be able to help other people with [JA] now. Not many people know about this disease, so I think it’s really important to spread awareness.”

YOU ARE HELPING IN THE FIGHT

The Arthritis Foundation is proud to partner again with Cleveland Magazine and support the Silver Spoon Awards party. Since 1996, it has raised over $2.5 million, fueling our ability to serve people with arthritis in Northeast Ohio and throughout the country through life-changing science, resources, advocacy and community connections.

• We increased our efforts to conquer osteoarthritis (OA), which affects more than 30 million people in the country and has no cure. Our OA program brings together leading researchers and is launching a firstof-its-kind multicenter clinical trial that will help lead to a better understanding of OA and potential treatments.

• We hosted a symposium with Hospital for Special Surgery on hip OA, and a meeting of OA thought leaders and the Food and Drug Administration to accelerate OA drug development.

• In recent months, we awarded $1.1 million to researchers focusing on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who aren’t getting relief from existing therapies.

CHAMPIONS OF YES

We’re

As Champions of Yes, we’re turning obstacles that arthritis creates into opportunities to say, “Yes.” We put the needs of people with arthritis front and center of everything we do, from creating resources that help them live well despite arthritis to ensuring their voices are heard in matters that affect their health and well-being. Learn about these and more by visiting arthritis.org/pain or by scanning the QR code:

• We are committed to improving health care access for everyone and have earmarked $750,000 to increasing diversity, equity and inclusion in rheumatology.

• We fund research in pediatric rheumatic diseases through our partner, Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA).

• Our state and federal advocacy efforts continue to score wins, fueled by our army of volunteer advocates throughout the country. They include over 5,800 Advocates and nearly 100 Ambassadors in Ohio.

• Thanks to our Ohio Advocates, patients there are no longer required to “fail” multiple medications before gaining access to a medication they know works for them.

• Ohio legislators passed a bill reforming the prior authorization process insurance companies require for specialty medications. This reduces the burden and delay in patients receiving needed medications.

• Congress capped Medicare out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs, making them more affordable to more people.

• Congress funded a program we back that will help more physicians specialize in pediatric rheumatology.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PROGRAMS AT ARTHRITIS.ORG

• Learn about the 100-plus types of arthritis and ways to manage them, and find out how the Arthritis Foundation is fighting for people living with arthritis.

• Call our Helpline at 800-283-7800 or submit a request. A licensed, clinical social worker and trained staff — including a Spanish-speaking expert — can answer your questions about arthritis, medications, insurance and other arthritis-related information.

• Live Yes! Connect Groups put people with arthritis directly in touch with each other to share support, information and experiences. Virtual groups, available nationally, include those for people with different types of arthritis, newly diagnosed people, young adults, parents of kids with JA, veterans, family planning and more. In-person groups are available locally, including in Medina and Mahoning Valley, Ohio.

• Webinars feature experts and patients discussing a variety of topics, ranging from insurance to exercise to mental health to medications. Watch past webinars and sign up for upcoming ones.

• Live Yes! With Arthritis Podcast — by patients for patients — features experts

and patients discussing everything from dating and diversity to exercise and disease management. Tune in through your favorite podcast app.

• Our e-books provide tips and information on a range of topics, from footwear and holiday preparations to pain management and resilience.

• Staying physically active is essential to manage pain and improve function with arthritis. Your Exercise Solution helps you create your own workout routine for your specific needs and modifications.

• Our Walk With Ease program will get you started in a routine proven to help people with arthritis improve their pain and function.

• Take part in clinical research to help improve the lives of people living with arthritis — maybe even yourself.

• Connect with us on social networks:

turning No into Yes for people living with arthritis through support, solutions and resources.

living

NATURALLY GOOD MOVES

Time outdoors for older adults can take years off you, and deliver benefits you simply can’t gain between four walls.

Some days, Jim Grunzweig strolls from his apartment home at Judson Park to the Case Western Reserve University campus, tuning in to the energy of students rushing to class or those quiet periods when he can let his mind wander. A former college administrator, he admits this route takes him down memory lane.

Other days, Grunzweig, 86, walks to University Circle by Severance Hall and the Cleveland Museum of Art. “I’ve almost made it to Little Italy — that’s my goal,” he says,

BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE

estimating it’s about a mile and a half from where he lives. “There is a way for me to cut up to the Cedar-Fairmount area, and I like the bakery and bookstore up there. It’s a different type of walk, so it gives me variety,” he relates.

Walking outdoors — immersed in sights, sounds, smells and the feeling of feet-to-ground — is a multi-sensory experience that does a body good for so many reasons. “If I’m not outside, I feel cooped up,” Grunzweig says.

We don’t think about all the health benefits in play from simply stepping out for a breath of fresh air or sitting on

RETIREMENT living

a bench to watch the world go by. “There’s a sense of freedom, and we know that nature produces immediate positive results on mood and behavior, and that’s especially true for those with dementia,” says Vivian Springer, executive director of Jennings at Notre Dame Village in Chardon.

A study published in the American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease & Other Dementias shows that spending time in gardens decreases symptoms for those suffering from memory impairment disorders including Alzheimer’s.

For instance, movement outdoors can reduce end-of-day agitation referred to as sundowning, points out Laura Chernauskas, memory care advisor at Arden Courts of Westlake. “Nature is calming, and outside in the fresh air, they can explore, browse, interact and be involved,” she says, relating how colorful flower beds and bird feeders — an ever-changing environment — invites engagement and conversation.

For those recovering from a medical issue, walking in a natural setting increases the quality of life, speeds healing and also improves attention while reducing stress, according to a study in the journal, Stroke

At any age and stage, nature heals.

Freedom to Explore

With more than 30 landscaped, wooded and “growing” acres of land, Rose Mary Zverina can always find a fresh take on time outdoors at The Normandy in Rocky River, where she moved a year and a half ago. “You can walk around the pond and listen to the bullfrogs, and when you get to the main path, it’s like walking in the

Metroparks,” she says.

“My balcony looks into the courtyard, and I can see the lake through the trees before the leaves come out,” she continues. “It’s ever-changing, and you can really get lost in the beauty.”

Providing walking paths, gardens to plant, a putting green, a fire pit for s’mores nights and countless blooms on campus makes accessing nature as easy as stepping out onto an

no surprise that as we age, we still enjoy time outdoors,” Springer says.

There are many reasons to “play outside” and ways to do so that are accessible and practical.

“It should be

“Nature is calming, and outside in the fresh air, they can explore, browse, interact and be involved.”

– Laura Chernauskas, memory care advisor at Arden Courts of Westlake

apartment landing or taking a few steps outdoors.

“In the back of the property, we have a pond area where we have tables, chairs and umbrellas in the summer so people can take their lunch outdoors and just meet,” says Kim Zdanowicz, an independent social worker and director or marketing at the Normandy campus. Offering raised garden beds so residents can grow veggies or flowers offers a sense of home, adds Tracy Swisher, The Normandy’s director of life enrichment. “Many came from homes with beautiful gardens where they spent hours, so this gives them a piece of that here,” she says. “Some have brought roses or other plants and relocated them to our grounds.”

At Arden Courts, dedicated to memory care, an enclosed and secure courtyard with walkways allows

ISTOCK PHOTO

residents to step out safely whenever they want. “It is designed so they can go freely outside, get fresh air and just be in nature,” Chernauskas says, adding that this layout is intentional. There is so much to be said for the ability to simply open the door and walk out, safely. “Giving people that freedom to come and go at will, of having that self-destiny and self-esteem,” Springer explains that gardens and

flower beds are purposely designed to invite residents to dote, water, pick a weed or pluck a veggie.

“They can turn on the hose just as they would at home and care for the plants,” she says. “We want it to be very organic and offer the freedom to move within the environment. So much of our lives are spontaneous and we want this to be that way, as well. Those little things that happen every day in the moment are what can make a day special.”

A Breath of Fresh Air

Nature is literally a breath of fresh air, and this helps regulate sleep and eating patterns, along with providing a healthy dose of Vitamin D. Natural light plays a big role in mental health, too. And you don’t have to spend much

time to gain the benefits. According to a study published in Science News, just two hours per week is enough to promote health and well-being.

Sometimes called forest bathing, time outdoors in nature can work as a mental and physical reset button.

Bringing Independent Living to Life.

At Judson, independent living is all about enjoying the comforts of home in a vibrant, maintenance-free retirement community. Residents take advantage of diverse, enriching programs that cultivate new friendships, maintain wellness, fuel creativity and ignite new interests. Seniors define their own way of living and find the inspiration that makes them come alive with the peace of mind that our staff is available 24 hours a day should help be needed.

“(We give) people that freedom to come and go at will, of having that self-destiny and self-esteem.”

– Vivian Springer, executive director, Jennings at Notre Dame Village in Chardon

RETIREMENT living

“Being outdoors for older folks can really bring a sense of peace and calm—listening to birds, the sound of water lapping against the shore, or just watching the world go by,” says Kelly Colby, executive director at Devon Oaks Assisted Living in Westlake.

Fresh air cleans the lungs, boosts mood, lowers the heart rate, increas es energy levels and even improves digestion because it increases oxy gen flow. Not to mention, getting out prevents cabin fever—even if for just a few minutes to soak in some sun or feel the breeze.

As Grunzweig says, “Walking out doors makes me feel relaxed and refreshed.”

Admittedly a weather watcher, he tends to walk indoors if the tempera ture is colder than 40 degrees or if precipitation is more than he wants

Devon Oaks Assisted Living is the ideal solution for older adults who are no longer able to manage on their own without support. And for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, specialized memory support is available.

From a safe and comfortable living environment to scenic outdoor spaces, experience for yourself all that Devon Oaks has to offer.

A HEALTHY BALANCING ACT

alking outside tests and improves balance. “You have to watch out for roots or cracks in the sidewalk, or you’re looking around while walking and taking in the scenery, so your eyes, ears and senses are all working at the same time,” says Diane Menges, director of community wellness at Judson Senior Living.

These senses are always on duty to maintain balance. As we age, our eyesight and hearing can diminish, Menges points out. “We don’t realize how much we use hearing and eyesight for balance, so continuing to go out and take in more of the environment is a way to keep those senses acute.”

Explore different surfaces and terrains, such as walking up and down a gradual slope, or on a bath that requires you to navigate the bare ground, pea gravel or stepping stones. Safety is the priority, with a careful approach and assistance, if necessary.

Helping

Your arms are also helpers for walking steady, Menge adds. Outdoor walking encourages this movement. “With treadmills, older adults might hold on to the railing, and using your arms is an important part of walking to keep balance, energy and good posture,” Menges adds.

Judson uses a fall risk assessment tool called RAPID to give residents a baseline and exercises to build balance. By standing on a biofeedback mat and performing various tasks, such as standing on your toes with your eyes shut, wellness associates can identify areas to improve. “It

might show a weakness in a leg or hip mobility,” Menges relates.

The system offers custom exercises that are updated as they are accomplished. Ultimately, it allows residents to address vulnerabilities that could result in a fall and prevent physical activity, outdoors or indoors.

HELP US HONOR INSPIRING LEADERS

We are inspired by the volume of great work being done in our community — and we are proud to tell the stories of those leading the way. Once again this year, we will be honoring some of Cleveland’s most accomplished community leaders with our Community Leader of the Year Awards.

Awardees will be nominated and selected within the following categories:

Arts | Diversity & Inclusion | Education | Environment & Sustainability Health Care | Nonprofit Organizations | Public Service/Government Technology | Young Professional Advancement

If you know somone who is making a positive impact in the community, we want to know about them. Visit us online at clevelandmagazine.com/CLOTY to submit a nomination. Nominations are due by July 1.

We Help You Help.

When you help care for a loved one, you take care of everything. But are you taking care of yourself?

AARP can help with information and useful tips on how you can maintain a healthy life balance, care for your own physical and mental well-being, and manage the challenges of caring for a loved one.

Get help from others. Ask family and friends for assistance. Seek advice from other people caring for their loved ones.

Care for yourself. Don’t forget about your own needs. It’s just as important to make a plan to take care of yourself as it is to create a caregiving plan for your loved one.

Tap into AARP’s resources. AARP.org/caregiving has a wide array of information, including legal and financial guidance.

You’re there for them. We’re here for you.

RETIREMENT living

A guide to some of Northeast Ohio’s premier retirement communities

1. Normandy Senior Living 22701 E. Lake Road, Rocky River 440-333-5401

2. Lakeside Assisted Living at the Normandy 22441 E. Lake Road, Rocky River 440-333-5401

3. The Welsh Home 22199 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River 440-331-0420

4. Spry Senior Strongsville 15201 Pearl Road, Strongsville 440-592-6200

5. Spry Senior Brookpark 14770 Snow Road, Brookpark 440-592-6200

6. PACE at Brooklyn Senior Health & Wellness Center 4229 Pearl Road, Cleveland 216-205-4000

7. Judson Manor in University Circle 1890 E. 107th St., Cleveland 216-532-1351

8. Judson Park in Cleveland Heights 1801 Chestnut Hills, Cleveland 216-532-1347

9. PACE at Forest Hill 14800 Private Dr., Cleveland 216-268-8600

10. McGregor Senior Living 14900 Private Dr., Cleveland 216-851-8200

11. PACE at Warrensville Hts. 26310 Emery Road, Warrensville Hts. 216-791-3580

12. Spry Senior Solon 5855 Harper Road, Suite A, Solon 440-592-6200

13. South Franklin Circle 16600 Warren Court, Chagrin Falls 440-457-8280

Celebrating 25 years OF EXCELLENCE.

Discerning homeowners throughout Northeast Ohio trust Hurst Design Build Remodel to make their remodeling dreams come true. Hurst’s detailed process, innovative design, and fine craftsmanship combine to create an extraordinary remodeling experience. Learn more about our award-winning work by scheduling a consultation or stop in to visit our Design Center in Westlake, Ohio.

2023

Board of Directors

PRESIDENT Daniel Hurst, MCR, CLC, CRPM Hurst Design-Build-Remodel

CHAIRMAN

Mark Maltry Jr., CR JEMM Construction LLC

PRESIDENT ELECT

Brian Pauley, CR Remodel Me Today Inc.

VICE PRESIDENT

Robert Doherty Jr. Wolff Bros. Supply Inc.

VICE PRESIDENT

Mike Staffileno Chagrin River Co.

TREASURER

Ken Perrin Artistic Renovations of Ohio LLC

PARLIAMENTARIAN

Kristopher Toth, CRS Toth Painting Solutions Inc.

CHAIRMAN EMERITUS

Chris Kamis, CR

Absolute Roofing & Construction Inc.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kathy Masterson

BOARD MEMBERS

Lori Bryant HTZ Construction Inc.

Gabriel Cantrell Hamilton Parker

Andy Ieropoli, CR Advance Home Improvement LLC

Tony Panzarella

1-888-OHIOCOMP

Doug Roger Dollar Bank

Benjamin Rogers

B.R. Drafting & Design

Robert Schwarz, MCR, CRPM, UDCP and CKBR R.B. Schwarz Inc.

Dear Homeowners,

WELCOME TO ANOTHER ISSUE OF Remodel

Ohio Magazine — the premier remodeling resource brought to you by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Greater Cleveland. As you explore these pages, you’ll find some of the latest products, ideas and inspiration for your home.

We are excited to announce that the NARI Home Improvement Show will be returning to the newly renovated I-X Center this September. We are proud to be Cleveland’s longest-running home show that connects homeowners with the best remodeling professionals in the industry. Whether you have a project big or small, the NARI Home Improvement Show is the perfect place to get inspired by what our exhibitors offer. We showcase new trends, from siding and

windows to countertops, lighting and paint colors. It’s amazing to see the dramatic before and after transformations on display. For the first time, we are hosting the show in the fall and will feature inspiration for the upcoming seasons.

Please come join us to explore all that the NARI Home Improvement has to offer for Your Home for All Seasons!

Some of the best remodelers in town will be exhibiting, and you can see their awardwinning work throughout these pages.

Congratulations to all of the NARI members who recently received Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards for their world-class remodeling work.

It’s always remodeling season in Northeast Ohio — I hope you enjoy the journey!

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SHOW PREVIEW

Your Home for All Seasons

GATHER INSPIRATION, DESIGN TIPS, ACCESS TO PROFESSIONAL REMODELERS AND HOLIDAY IDEAS AT THE NARI HOME IMPROVEMENT SHOW.

BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE

Dream it, design it — do it. This year, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Greater Cleveland, has moved its annual Home Improvement Show from winter to fall to help visitors get ready to transform their homes during any season. The three-day extravaganza, taking place Sept. 29 to Oct. 1, offers inspiration, remodeling advice, workshops and an avenue for meeting a variety of professionals specializing in everything from windows and siding to large-scale home renovations and custom design-build projects.

“The show connects people with some of the best professionals out there — they do it the right way,” says Daniel Hurst, owner and COO of Hurst Design-BuildRemodel. “You can meet with talented remodelers and get a feel for what each is about. Where else can you do that all in one place at one time?”

With its move, the show also will highlight seasonal decor and design ideas — offering plenty of time for showgoers to dress up their homes inside and out to enhance holiday gatherings.

“This is when remodeling projects are sparked because we’re having family and friends over and say, ‘We wish we had more room to entertain,’” Hurst, president of NARI Greater Cleveland, points out.

Whether you’re looking for fresh ways to invite fall and holiday flavors into the home, planning for a remodeling project or just want to see what’s new, the NARI Home Improvement Show provides a talent hub chock-full of innovative products and design-build services backed by the reputable professionals who will showcase their portfolios of work.

“The NARI Home Improvement Show will emphasize how you can bring your home together for all seasons, and our members are here to help your home be whatever you want it to be,” says Kathy Masterson, executive director, NARI Greater Cleveland. “We’re excited for our return to the newly remodeled I-X Center and the stages that will include programs focused on holiday entertaining and decorating.”

Ready to be inspired? Here are six ways to make the most of your experience at the show.

1. COLLECT IDEAS

The NARI Home Improvement Show is chock-full of inspiration. Prepare by pinning designs, materials and projects you admire from sites like Houzz and Pinterest. “A little online research never hurts,” Hurst says. Check out the show schedule to find out which remodeling professionals will be on-site. Their websites usually include galleries of completed projects.

2. SET PRIORITIES

“Take time in advance to think about what projects are important to you,” Hurst suggests, relating that you might prioritize timeline over materials selections. Consider not just the types of projects you want to tackle — and in what order — but how you want them to be completed. “This will help you have an easier time identifying who you want to work with and what you want to see at the show.”

3. BRING A BUDGET

Many people shy away from talking numbers from the get-go, but giving contractors an idea of how much you plan to invest in a project is important. “Especially if you are planning on a sophisticated project like a major kitchen renovation, basement remodel or new addition, having an idea of how much you want to spend is beneficial,” Hurst says. “We all have our limitations. Have open discussions with professionals about your budget.”

For example, with a round number in mind and some design ideas, ask, “Is this feasible?”

“A good remodeling professional will help you formulate that budget, and usually that’s the first thing we discuss,” Hurst says. “You could do the same size bathroom for $50,000 or $150,000. There are a lot of different variations in between, too. A professional will help you meet your goals.”

4. LOOK INTO LOCATION AND SCOPE

“A professional may serve a small area, so knowing if they work in your region is helpful,” Hurst says. Also, if a contractor is driving from across town, how will that impact your cost?

During this conversation, bring up scope. “Is the project you have in mind something the contractor is experienced with and does regularly?” Hurst relates. “Not everyone does everything. You want to hire a professional whose expertise aligns with your goals for the project.”

5. TALK TIMELINE

During the last several years, supply chain slowdowns caused stop-and-go with construction projects of all kinds. Stop and wait for materials. Go and work to catch up. Stop and wait for appliances — and so on. While the supply chain

has loosened and wait times are nearing what’s typical, backorders are still a reality.

“If you have a certain timeline in mind for your project, ask professionals how far out they are booking,” Hurst advises. “If you want it done for a party or holiday, find out if that is possible because the good contractors will be booked out for a while, and that’s OK It’s about starting that conversation sooner and getting the process rolling.”

As for materials, make selections right away during the design process. If a backorder will hold up the entire project, ask the professional if there are alternatives. There’s always a solution.

6. AFTER THE SHOW

Now that you’ve met a variety of NARI remodeling professionals, conduct a little research before deciding which company you’ll partner with to complete your renovation project. “Do they have good online reviews?

What is their online presence?” Hurst says, relating that professionals should showcase their work. Ask for referrals so you can talk to previous clients about their experience.

“And be patient,” Hurst reminds. “After homes shows, professionals can be busy following up with appointments.”

The industry is thriving and there is a high demand for remodeling work, Hurst adds. “Whether you are getting new windows, a roof replacement or a renovation, understand that timeline is important.”

TICKETS AND DISCOUNTS:

ADMISSION: $14

CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 16 ARE FREE

FRIDAY ONLY: HALF PRICE ADMISSION

Seniors 62+ and military active/ veterans will receive $7 off admission price with proof of age and service.

SHOW HOURS/LOCATION

The NARI Home Improvement Show is moving from winter to fall. Get inspired to transform your home for the holidays and beyond.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 29: 10 A.M. TO 9 P.M.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 30: 10 A.M. TO 9 P.M.

SUNDAY, OCT. 1: 10 A.M. TO 5 P.M.

International Exposition Center, 1 I-X Center Drive, Cleveland, OH 44135

SHOW INFORMATION:

Dover Home Remodelers has earned our reputation as the most trusted, skilled and innovative design-build firm in Northeast Ohio. Our talented design team blends your ideas and our experience to give you fabulous spaces that are done on time, on budget and right – the first time.

Call

Stay up-to-date on show news by visiting NARIHomeShow.com. For exhibiting or sponsorship information, contact Kathy Masterson at 216-631-7764 or kathym@naricleveland.com.

EVENING of EXCELLENCE

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI)

Greater Cleveland honored the region’s best in the business during its annual Evening of Excellence. Held March 31 at the Aviator Pub & Event Center, the event paid tribute to the recipients of the 2023 Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards for demonstrating outstanding craftsmanship and innovation.

Monrovia Kitchen

1.

4.

2.

3.

5.

6.

7.

1. Kathy Masterson, Bob Hoffman and Pat Hurst

2. Chris and Brian Pauley

3. Christie Miller, Gabe Cantrell and Jaclynn Katanik

4. Sue, Ken, Alec and Anthony Perrin

5. Robert and Mark Schwarz

6. Daniel and Keri Hurst

7. Kris and Caroline Toth, Dylan and Gwenn Francis and Melissa and Mark Maltry Jr.

8. Alex and Mike Staffileno

9. Pat and Melissa Hurst

10. Chris, Allsion and Heather Kamis

11. Nick Akins, Carol Muller and Doug Dilly

12. Bob Doherty Jr.

13. Tony Panzarella and John Oliverio

14. Debbie and Marty Huffman, Andy Ieropoli and Kim Garner

15. Ron Buffa, Brandon Bennett, Michelle Brundige and Kathy Pleasant

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

HAL STATA

14.

15.

Each year, remodeling professionals from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) Greater Cleveland Chapter are invited to compete for the prestigious Contractor of the Year (CotY) Awards in recognition of their achievements. Awards are given to those who recognized their clients’ needs and used the highest level of skill in design, planning and execution to deliver the finished remodeling project.

Advance Design and Remodel

29299 Clemens Road, Ste. 1-C, Westlake, OH 44145 216-544-0455, advanceremodel.com

2ND PLACE

Interior Under $100,000

BEFORE

Artistic Renovations of Ohio LLC

12333 Ridge Road, #1B, North Royalton, OH 44133 216-520-0838, artisticreno.com

1ST PLACE

Bath $50,001-$75,000

ADDITIONAL AWARDS:

1st Place: Interior Under $100,000

1st Place: Kitchen $60,001-$100,000

2nd Place: Interior Element Under $30,000

Alair Homes Hudson

10 W. Streetsboro St. #201, Hudson, OH 44236-2851 440-893-9600, alairhudson.com

1ST PLACE

Detached Garage

BEFORE

BEFORE

Bennett Builders & Remodelers

27899 Clemens Road, Westlake, OH 44145-1141 440-835-3277, bennettbuilders.com

1ST PLACE

Entire House $500,001-$750,000

BEFORE

ADDITIONAL AWARDS:

1st Place: Exterior $100,001-$250,000

1st Place: Interior Element Under $30,000

1st Place: Bath $25,001-$50,000

2nd Place: Bath $50,001-$75,000

2nd Place: Detached Structure

1977 Medina Road, Medina, OH 44256-9623 330-239-3630, cabinet-s-top.com

1ST

Kitchen $30,000-$60,000

F.A. Makoski Construction Co. Inc.

11139 Caves Road, Chesterland, OH 44026-1342

440-729-1158, makoski.com

2ND PLACE

Kitchen $100,001-$150,000 BEFORE

HTZ Construction Inc.

10077 Acme Road, Rittman, OH 44270 440-588-8644, htzconstruction.com

1ST PLACE

Exterior $50,001-$100,000 BEFORE

R.B. Schwarz Inc.

12944 S. Woodside Dr., Chesterland, OH 44026-3051 440-729-2480, rbschwarzinc.com

Interior $250,001-$500,000

25564 Bagley Road, Olmsted Falls, OH 44138-1914 440-249-7665, remodelmetoday.com

Addition

CONTRACTORS

RESOURCE GUIDE

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

CONTRACTOR

3rd Generation Home Improvement Inc.

Michael Scaperato

35835 Vine St., Eastlake, OH 44095 440-942-0001, 3rdgenerationhomeimprovements.com

Action Door

Dino Mastantuono

201 E. Granger Road Brooklyn Heights, OH 44131 216-739-3667 • FAX 216-739-3680 action-door.com

Absolute Roofing and Construction Inc.

Chris G. and Michael T. Kamis 12301 Sprecher Ave. Cleveland, OH 44135 216-898-1563 • FAX 216-898-1853

mkamis@absoluteroofing.com absoluteroofing.com

Since 1968, Action Door has been the leader in the garage door industry. With more than 70 trucks on the road every day, we are always close to you. Action Door’s new residential garage doors have many new colors, styles and windows to pick from. New residential motor operator options include LED lighting and battery back up, Wi Fi and have cameras attached. For garage door service and more, call Action Door!

AD Remodel LLC

Alair Homes Hudson

David Nystrom 10 W. Streetsboro St., #201, Hudson, OH 44236-2851 440-893-9600, alairhudson.com

All American Gutter Protection

Josh Elliott 7336 Whipple Ave., North Canton, OH 44720 888-323-8090, allamericangutterprotection.com

All Basement Windows

Scott Armstrong P.O. Box 42, Doylestown, OH 44230 allbasementwindows.com

All Construction Services

2020

WINNER

Northeast Ohio’s most trusted roofing company. With 34-plus years of operation, we are committed to excellence in craftsmanship. From roofing, siding and additions to historic restoration-renovation, we are truly a full-service company. First-place category winner of the prestigious NARI CotY award 19 years in a row. Named one of the top 100 roofing contractors in the nation in 2012 by RoofingContractor magazine and awarded a Big 50 designation by RemodelingMagazine. We have three HAAG-engineering-certified roof inspectors on staff to meet your storm/hail damage needs.

Andy Demian 8986 Lindbergh Blvd., Olmsted Falls, OH 44138 440-476-9370, ad-remodel.com

Advance Design and Remodel

Andy Ieropoli, CR 29299 Clemens Road, Ste 1-C, Westlake, OH 44145 216-544-0455, advanceremodel.com

Dave Lehotan 945 Industrial Pkwy. N, Brunswick, OH 44212 330-220-6666, allconstructionohio.com

American Wood Reface Inc.

Jason Hicks 854 Medina Road, Medina, OH 44256-9615 800-645-4594, woodreface.com

Armorvue of Cleveland LLC

Criss Maple

31339 Industrial Pkwy., North Olmsted, OH 44070 440-230-8490, armorvue.com

Artistic Renovations of Ohio LLC

Kenneth Perrin

12333 Ridge Road, #1B, North Royalton, OH 44133 216-520-0838, artisticreno.com

B R Drafting & Design

Benjamin Rogers

13858 Radcliffe Road, Chardon, OH 44024 440-901-9403, brdraftingohio.com

B-Dry System-Cleveland

An Independent Licensee of B-Dry System Inc.

Randy Cutlip 668 Northfield Road, Bedford, OH 44146-2307 440-439-8033, bdrycleveland.com

B. Legrand Design::Build Ltd.

Bryan Black 4065 Erie St., Willoughby, OH 44094-7804 440-571-5012, blegrand.com

Bennett Builders & Remodelers

Terry Bennett 27899 Clemens Road, Westlake, OH 44145-1141 440-835-3277, bennettbuilders.com

Brad Smith Roofing Co. Inc.

Brad Smith 24550 Sperry Dr., Westlake, OH 44145-1572 440-835-3377, bradsmithroofing.com

Cabinet-S-Top Inc.

Betty Nairn 1977 Medina Road, Medina, OH 44256-9623 330-239-3630, cabinet-s-top.com

California Closets

Juan Antunez

1100 Resource Dr., Ste 3, Brooklyn Heights, OH 44131-1888 216-741-9000, calclosets.com

Carrieri Construction Inc.

Michael Carrieri

11133 W. Sprague Road, North Royalton, OH 44133-1264 440-842-6718, carriericonstruction.com

Chagrin River Co.

Mike Staffileno

9311 Wisner Road, Chardon, OH 44024-9606 440-729-7270, chagrinriverco.com

Closet Factory

Bob Pietrick

5305 Commerce Pkwy. W, Cleveland, OH 44130-1274 216-362-4660, closetfactory.com/cleveland

Costanzo Builders and Remodelers

Heather Costanzo

8353 Wesley Dr., Strongsville, OH 44136-1930 440-879-8570, costanzobuilders.com

D&D Home Improvement

Mark Babarick

3883 Baird Road, Stow, OH 44224-4205 330-688-5542, ddhomeimprovement.net

Desborough Construction

John Desborough 3335 Teresa Ct., Perry, OH 44081-9227 440-259-1050, desboroughconstruction.com

Dover Home Remodelers Inc.

James C. Orr Jr., MCR, CLC 29341 Lorain Road

North Olmsted, OH 44070 440-777-7555 • FAX 440-777-8188

Since 1984, Dover Home Remodelers has been at the forefront of grand and elaborate remodeling projects. In addition to our design talents, we can transform any size living space and even perform general maintenance. Our professionalism remains at the highest level. For any project, small or large, call us today!

Dream Home Construction

Scott & Yvonne Burton

13980 Claridon Park Dr., Chardon, OH 44024-9468 440-285-8516, dreamhome-construction.com

Eagle Design & Construction

Daniel Garry 2538 Circle Dr., Painesville, OH 44077 440-223-7755, eagledesignconst.com

Element Design Build Remodel

Vlatko Demrovski

6721 Chittenden Road, Hudson, OH 44236 330-523-6919, neohomerenovations.com

FA Makoski Construction & Remodeling

Frank Makoski 11139 Caves Road, Chesterland, OH 44026-1342 440-729-1158 makoski.com

Floor Coverings International

Jen Toth 681 Moore Road, #E, Avon Lake, OH 44012-2390 440-225-3944, floorcoveringsinternational.com

Forest City Builders Group LLC

Stefan Mendrea P.O. Box 91, Hinckley, OH 44233 330-441-0263, forestcitybuilt.com

Frank’s Custom Remodeling Ltd.

Frank Pajcic, III 2718 Lucerne Ave., Parma, OH 44134-2620 440-759-0985, frankscustomremodeling.com

Golden Hammer Remodeling Group

Donald Foldesy 39327 Thornfield Drive, Avon, OH 44011-1776 440-934-6307, goldenhammer440.com

Green Home Solutions

Pat Caporossi, Gabriel DeJesus 4900 Brookpark Road, Cleveland, OH 44134-1008 216-459-8800, ghsohio.com

Groundworks Operations LLC 1741 Corporate Landing Pkwy., Virginia Beach, VA 23454

The Hall Design Group

John Hall 547 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 216-870-2644, thehalldesigngroup.com

Homework LLC

James Engler 2900 Plymouth Ave., Rocky River, OH 44116-3230 440-895-9675, homework123.com

HTZ Construction Inc.

Lori Bryant 10077 Acme Road, Rittman, OH 44270 440-588-8644, htzconstruction.com

CODE OF ETHICS

Member Standards

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE OF NARI GREATER CLEVELAND

NARI Greater Cleveland (NARI) is dedicated to being the best resource for knowledge and training in the remodeling industry. Our organization exists for two reasons: To help professionalize members of the home improvement industry and to serve as an ally to Ohio’s homeowners.

CODE OF ETHICS

Members shall observe the highest standards of integrity, frankness and responsibility in dealing with the public, while adhering to the following principles:

1. Only those home improvement projects, which are structurally and economically sound, shall be fostered and encouraged.

2. All advertising statements shall be accurate and free of the capacity to mislead or deceive the consumer.

3. Accuracy shall be required of all salespersons in their descriptions of products and services.

4. All contracts employed shall be unambiguous and fair to all parties concerned.

5. All contractual obligations shall be promptly fulfilled.

6. All work shall be performed in a manner compatible with recognized standard of public health and safety and applicable laws.

THE ETHICS COMMITTEE

The mission of the Ethics Committee is to uphold the ethical standards of the Association by enforcing the Code of Ethics and to promptly deal with consumer and member complaints. The Ethics Committee is assigned the duty of receiving and considering violations of the NARI Code of Ethics, brought by the general public against a member or by another member of the organization.

To submit a written complaint, a consumer needs to contact the NARI office at 216-631-7764 and request to speak to the Ethics Committee liaison, who will mail or email out a complaint packet.

ONCE YOU HAVE COMPLETED THE PACKET and delivered your complaint to the Ethics Committee liaison, you will receive a letter confirming receipt and requesting any additional information. Next, the member company at issue will be contacted and asked to respond. Once the response is received, the Committee will attempt to resolve the complaint. If an amicable resolution cannot be reached, the Committee will make a determination as to whether NARI’s Code of Ethics was violated and recommend or take action as deemed appropriate.

AGAIN, NARI GREATER CLEVELAND’S GOAL is to help the parties involved come to an amicable agreement by opening the lines of communication. NARI accepts complaints reported within two years of the discovery of the issue in question. NARI will accept complaints on behalf of consumers who have engaged legal counsel and will review the conduct of the member in relation to the NARI Code of Ethics, but will not be able to act as third-party mediator.

Hurst Design Build Remodel

Patrick G. Hurst, MCR, GCP 26185 Center Ridge Road Westlake, OH 44145

440-234-5656 • FAX 440-234-5747

hurstremodel.com

Hurst Design Build Remodel, an award-winning, full-service design-build firm, specializes in combining innovative design solutions and expert craftsmanship into one seamless experience. Let us create the perfect kitchen, bath, addition, basement or renovation for you. The Fine Art of Reinventing Home.

Infinity from Marvin - Cleveland

Jon Hammer

16900 Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130- 2542 440-243-5000, infinitywindowsohio.com

J.P. Grabenstetter Construction LLC

Cheryl Pratt

1188 Meadow Sq., Akron, OH 44333 330-850-1574, jpgrabenstetter.com

J.R. Luxury Bath and Plumbing

John Weddell 6739 Wise Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720-7358 330-494-2365, jrluxurybath.com

JEMM Construction LLC

Mark Maltry Jr. 200 Blackbrook Road, Painesville, OH 44077-1215 440-358-0008, jemmconstruction.net

Joyce Factory Direct & Bath Planet

Todd Schmidt

1125 Berea Industrial Pkwy., Berea, OH 44017-2928 440-243-5700, joycefactorydirect.com

Klassic Custom Decks

Phillip Klonowski 2921 Center Road, Brunswick, OH 44212-2333 330-468-3476, klassicdecks.com

Leisuretime Warehouse

Ted Dellas

30140 Lakeland Blvd., Wickliffe, OH 44092-1779 440-623-7554, leisuretimewarehouse.com

LoGrasso Deco Co. Inc. and Kitchens by LoGrasso

Ronald LoGrasso

24300 Solon Road, Bedford Heights, OH 44146-4778 440-232-2366, kitchensbylograsso.com

Luxury Heating Co.

Paul Samek

5327 Ford Road, Elyria, OH 44035-1349 440-366-0971, luxuryheatingco.com

M.R. Plank Construction

Michael Plank

100 Pettit Road, Hudson, OH 44236-2030 216-292-7582, mrplank.com

NEO Custom Closets

Tony Smolinski

5400 State Road, Cleveland, OH 44134 216-925-3437, neocustomclosets.com

Neubert Painting Inc.

John Neubert

15401 Commerce Park Dr., Brookpark, OH 44142-2012 216-529-0360, neubertpainting.com

NHD Construction & Design

Aaron Strang

11476 Hawke Road, Suite D, Columbia Station, OH 44028-8802 440-748-2658, newhorizon.com

North Coast Accessible Homes

Mike Murar

14221 Broadway Ave., Cleveland, OH 44125-1953 216-365-2614, northcoastaccess.com

Odell Construction Inc.

Justin Odell, CR 871 Canterbury Road, Unit F, Westlake, OH 44145-1482 440-471-7935, odellconstructioninc.com

Ohio Basement Systems

Adrienne Robenstine

8295 Darrow Road, Twinsburg, OH 44087-2307 330-425-079,7 ohiobasementsystems.com

Ohio Garage Interiors

Scott Gleske

5231 Spruce Pointe Lane, Brunswick Hills, OH 44212-6236 440-520-9370, ohiogarageinteriors.com

Ohio State Waterproofing

Paul Trecarichi

365 East Highland Road, Macedonia, OH 44056-2103 330-467-1055, ohiostatewaterproofing.com

Paradise Renovation & Repair

Richard Kasunic Jr. 5261 state Route 305, Southington, OH 44470-9769 216-313-6298

Remodel Me Today

Brian Pauley

25564 Bagley Road, Olmsted Falls, OH 44138 440-249-7665 remodelmetoday.com

R.A. Kalfas Home Improvement Inc.

Cortney Kalfas 12001 Prospect Road Strongsville, OH 44149-2935 440-238-5498 • FAX 440-238-6255 rakalfas.com

R.A. Kalfas Construction is a family-owned and -operated general contractor located in Strongsville. A recognized and trusted name throughout the Cleveland area for more than35 years, we are a full-service remodeler,offering architectural services and interior/exterior design services. R.A. Kalfas is a goodstanding member of the Cleveland Better Business Bureau, NARI, the HBA and the Strongsville Chamber of Commerce.

R.B. Schwarz Inc.

Robert B. Schwarz, MCR, CRPM, UDCP, CKBR 12944 S. Woodside Drive Chesterland, OH 44026 216-952-9801 • 440-729-2480 rbschwarzinc.com

R.B. Schwarz Inc. restores historic homes for modern families. Specializing in kitchen and bathroom remodeling and full-house renovation, Schwarz excels at maintaining historical integrity of gracious homes in Northeast Ohio. The same team of meticulous craftsmen have been working together since 1987. Their technical competency and professionalism ensure the success of every job.

Radiant Windows LLC

Mike Shadoan

13230 Schiller Road, Oak Harbor, OH 43449-9179 440-230-4291, radiantwindows.com

Currently dreaming of a new kitchen or bath? Visit our showroom to find quality cabinetry, tile, fixtures, flooring and an award-winning design staff to help guide you or your client on the design decisions from beginning to end. Remodel Me Today is a consumer, builder and remodeler’s showroom that also offers design build services, if desired.

SemBro Design & Supply Vitaliy Tkach

16035 Industrial Pkwy., Cleveland, OH 44135 216-777-7925, sembrodesigns.com

Suntrol

John Hansen

5075 Taylor Drive, Suite D Cleveland, OH 44128

800-466-8468 • sales@suntrol.com suntrol.com

Award-winning Suntrol has been Ohio’s window film leader since 1975. Solar control film blocks 99% of UV and 84% to protect interiors and save energy. Perfect for home and AirBnb owners. Decorative films enhance privacy and interior design. Bird-strike mitigation prevents collision death and injury. Visit suntrol.com to book a free consult.

TAG Renovations LLC

Marc Beas

6755 Engle Road, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130 440-212-7703, tagrenovation.com

CERTIFIED REMODELERS

The Measure of a Great Remodeler

REMODELING A HOME IS A BIG DECISION.

Outside of buying a home, it may be the single-biggest investment a homeowner makes. One needs to know that the remodeling contractor chosen is a full-time, dedicated remodeling professional. NARI’s certification programs offer this assurance through an extensive screening and testing process.

Only full-time remodeling professionals are eligible for NARI certification. A NARI Certified Remodeler is an individual who has made a strong commitment to his/ her business. Remodelers are not eligible for certification until they have been actively involved in the remodeling industry for a minimum of five years, so you are assured that the NARI Certified Remodeler has had time to develop the experience and skills that can only be gained through extensive hands-on practice.

NARI certification is a challenging process, requiring extensive knowledge of the industry and a commitment to professional conduct. Even highly experienced and skilled remodelers find the screening and testing process formidable.

Nicholas Atkins, CLC Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Terry Bennett, CR Bennett Builders

Francesco Cirino, CLC Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Anthony Costanzo, CR, CLC Costanzo Builders and Remodelers

Andrew Demian, CLC AD Remodel and Design LLC

Doug Dilley, CLC Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Chris Eccher, CLC Odell Construction Inc.

TO BECOME NARI CERTIFIED, ONE MUST…

Receive a satisfactory review by the NARI Certification Board, by providing an outline detailing his or her hands-on experience, industry training and continuing education. In addition, he or she must prove is or her technical skills, practices in business management, association involvement and community service hours served.

Commit to intensive study on a broad range of critical industry issues. Most certification candidates participate in a formal study group and spend eight to 12 weeks studying in preparation for a difficult written exam.

Successfully complete a comprehensive and challenging written exam covering critical subject areas such as sound business management practices, knowledge of building codes and construction law, plans and specification, proper and safe use of tools and equipment, safety, standards of practice, math and several special skill areas.

ONCE AWARDED THEIR CERTIFICATION, NARI Certified Remodelers must meet annual re-certification requirements, involving continuing education credits and participation in industry-related programs.

HOMEOWNERS WHO HIRE A NARI CERTIFIED REMODELER can be assured they have chosen a professional with specific experience, dedication to training and a commitment to ethical conduct.

NARI GREATER CLEVELAND IS PROUD TO PRESENT its Certified Professionals…the best of the best in the remodeling industry!

Joshua Gillies, CLC Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Zach Guthrie, CLC Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Daniel Hurst, MCR, CLC, CRPM Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Patrick G. Hurst, MCR, GCP Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Andy Ieropoli, CR Advance Home Improvement

Chris G. Kamis, CR Absolute Roofing and Construction Inc.

Richard P. Kasunic Jr., CR Paradise Renovation & Repair

Frank Kinczel Jr., CFS Gunton Corp. dba Pella Window & Door Co.

Dennis Keller, CR Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Ronald J. LoGrasso, MCR, CKBR LoGrasso Deco Co. Inc. and Kitchens by LoGrasso

Mark Maltry Jr., CR JEMM Construction LLC

Kevin McDonald, CR, CLC Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Betty Nairn, CR Cabinet-S-Top Inc.

James C. Orr Jr., MCR, CLC Dover Home Remodelers Inc.

Frank J. Pajcic III, CRPM

Frank’s Custom Remodeling Ltd.

Brian Pauley, CR Remodel Me Today Inc.

Thomas Paulus, CLC Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Mark A. Schwarz, CLC R.B. Schwarz Inc.

Robert B. Schwarz, MCR, CRPM, UDCP and CKBR

R.B. Schwarz Inc.

John M. Tamer, MCR, UDCP Tamer Construction Inc.

Kristopher Toth, CRS Toth Painting Solutions Inc.

Jonathan Travaglianti, CLC Hurst Design Build Remodel

Michael Voloschuk, CR, CLC Hurst Design Build Remodel

Tyler Wilhelm, CLC, CRPM Hurst Design Build Remodel

Justin Odell, CR Odell Construction Inc.

Jeffrey Silcox, CLC

Hurst DesignBuild-Remodel

Not pictured: Dan Dolsen, CRPM, Chagrin River Co.; John Lesnak, CRPM, Chagrin River Co.

RESOURCE GUIDE

Tamer Construction Inc.

John Tamer

6134 State Road, Parma, OH 44134-3702 440-886-4700, tamerconstruction.com

TH Custom Hardwood

Timothy Palermo

1438 Barn Run Drive, Valley City, OH 44280-9421 330-225-2800, thcustomhardwood.com

Thermal Construction

Laura McGuire

33700 Lakeland Blvd.., Eastlake, OH 44095-5210 440-946-1007, thermalc.com

Toth Painting Solutions Inc.

Kristopher Toth 210 Hayes Dr., #E, Brooklyn Heights, OH 44131-1056 216-459-8684, tothpainting.com

Turning Point Builders

Ryan Brown 2413 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, OH 44333 888-285-8798, turningpointbuilds.com

CAREFUL PLANNING PAYS OFF

THINK YOUR RENOVATION PROJECT THROUGH from start to finish. Careful planning of your home improvement projects will enable you to update your home, increase the value of your investment and customize your living space, all for a lot less than the cost of a new home.

LOOK OVER YOUR PROPERTY CAREFULLY. What repairs are needed? What improvements would you like to make? Think ahead and determine your future needs. Professional remodeling contractors can help outline options and discuss the improvements you can make within your budget.

BE SURE TO REVIEW YOUR HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE POLICY and make adjustments for the added value of the work being done.

Unique Home Solutions Inc.

Carrie Fitzwater

6925 Engle Road, Suite E, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130 800-800-1971, uniquehomesolutions.org

Universal Windows Direct Inc.

Joe Becony 24801 Rockside Road, Bedford Heights, OH 44146 216-543-3814, universalwindowsdirect.com

USA Insulation Co, Inc./USA Enterprises Inc.

Jack Jones

31920 Vine St., Willowick, OH 44095-3569 440-602-4107, usainsulation.net

USA Waterproofing & Foundation Repair

Steve Rusk

1632 Enterprise Pkwy., Unit O, Twinsburg, OH 44087-2282 800-872-1799, usawaterproofing.com

Village Construction

Doug Mocny 9040 Osborne Dr., Mentor, OH 44060-4326 440-974-7659, thevillagegroup.com

SUPPLIER/MANUFACTURER

ABC Supply Co. Inc. - Cleveland

Leo O'Connor 4855 W. 130th St. Suite 1, Cleveland, OH 44135-5137 216-362-1400, abcsupply.com

Active Plumbing Supply

Debbie Armstrong 216 Richmond St., Painesville, OH 44077 440-352-4411, activeplumbing.com

Apollo Siding Supply Inc.

Dennis Reber 38396 Apollo Pkwy., Willoughby, OH 44094-7724 440-942-4647, apollosupply.com

Bradley Stone Industries Ltd.

Sarah Binder 30801 Carter St., Solon, OH 44139-3517 440-519-3277, bradley-stone.com

Cambria

Lisa Gritton 1510 St. Clair Ave., Kent, OH 44240-4364 952-944-1676, cambriausa.com

Carter Lumber

Charlie Ash 172 North Case Avenue, Akron, OH 44305-2540 330-784-5441, carterlumber.com

Window Nation

Visit one of our design centers: 4350 Renaissance Parkway, Warrensville Heights 4760 Grayton Road, Cleveland 2255 Mentor Ave., Mentor 216-472-1456 windownation.com

Window Nation has grown to become the third-largest window retailers as ranked by Window and Door Market Magazine. A family-owned business by Cleveland natives, Harley and Aaron Magden take great pride in offering locally made windows and doors installed by factory-trained and certified professionals. Window Nation has installed nearly 2 milion windows in more than 150,000 homes and backs all products with comprehensive warranties. Call Window Nation today to set up a FREE, no-obligation, in-home or virtual estimate, good for up to a year.

Window Universe

Andy Sykora 17411 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107-3427 440-536-8116, windowuniversecleveland.com

Choice Cabinet

Jessica Ricard 4856 Richmond Road, Warrensville Heights, OH 44128 216-378-2828, choicecabinet.com

Chuck-It Containers LLC

Chuck Whitfield 2919 E. 37th St., Cleveland, OH 44115-3521 216-441-3333, chuckitcontainers.com

Cleveland Tool & Cutter Inc.

Gina Cathcart 14181 Foltz Pkwy., Strongsville, OH 44149-4760 440-238-5770, clevelandtoolandcutterinc.com

Daltile

Randy Bowlin 900 Resource Dr., Brooklyn Heights, OH 44131-1882 216-661-4994, daltile.com

DAP Products Inc.

Bill Longo

3735 Green Road, Beachwood, OH 44122-5705 440-520-6522, dap.com

Ferguson Bath & Kitchen Gallery

Steven Caldwell 24441 Miles Road, Warrensville Heights, OH 44128-5483 216-825-2200, ferguson.com

Firenza Stone

Ray Cellura 33205 Curtis Blvd., Eastlake, OH 44095 440-953-8883, firenzastone.com

First Choice Exteriors

John Yoder 7051 state Route 83, Holmesville, OH 44633-9603 330-674-7051, firstchoiceexteriors.com

Hamilton Parker

Gabriel Cantrell 1100 Resource Dr., Brooklyn Heights, OH 44131-1854 216-351-2030, hamiltonparker.com

The Hardwood Lumber Co.

Ray Yoder 13813 Station Road, Burton, OH 44021 440-834-3420, hardwood-lumber.com

The Home Depot

James Polish 9000 Brooktree Road, #300, Wexford, PA 15090-9288 330-233-2265, homedepot.com

Kohler Co.

Amanda Karhoff 769 Norton Dr., Tallmadge, OH 44278-2935 330-208-6990, kohler.com

Mentor Lumber & Supply Co. Inc.

Rick Yaeger 7180 Center St., Mentor, OH 44060 440-255-8814, mentorlumber.com

Moen Inc.

John Seelie 25300 Al Moen Dr., North Olmsted, OH 44070-5619 216-385-8500, moen.com

Mont Surfaces by Mont Granite Inc.

Carol Payto

6130 Cochran Road, Solon, OH 44139-3306 440-287-0101, montgranite.com

National Design Mart

Jennifer Gonzalez

2255 Medina Road, Medina, OH 44256-9695 330-721-1914, nationaldesignmart.co

Ohio Bath Solutions LLC DBA Bath Fitter

Aaron Gross 7465 Worthington-Galena Road, #C, Worthington, OH 43085-6714 614-785-1040, bathfitter.com

RESOURCE GUIDE

Somrak Kitchens

Linda Hilbig

26201 Richmond Road, Bedford Heights, OH 44146-1400 216-464-6500, somrakkitchens.com

SRS Distribution Inc. (Lucrotec FBO)

100 Enterprize Dr., Ste. 101, Rockaway, NJ 07866

Timan Custom Window Treatments Inc.

Kathleen Timan 4533 Willow Pkwy., Cleveland, OH 44125-1041 216-741-8285, timanwindowtreatments.com

Trevarrow Inc., Sub-Zero and Wolf Distributor

RoseMary Eager

12610 Corporate Drive, Cleveland, OH 44130-9309 216-362-9200, trevarrowinc.com

Valley City Supply

Gunton Corporation

Pella Window & Door Co. - Gunton

Joseph A. Bobnar Sr. 26150 Richmond Road

Bedford Heights, OH 44146

216-831-2420, ext. 1010 • FAX 216-591-1561

Gunton Corp. — Your local distributor of Pella Windows and Doors. “Viewed to be the Best.”

Rocksolid Surfaces / Wood Dimensons

J.B. Walsh

4031 W. 150th St., Cleveland, OH 44135-1301 216-251-5509, rocksold-surfaces.com

Schluter Systems

Art Porter

194 Pleasant Ridge Road, Plattsburg, NY 12901-5841 800-472-4588, schluter.com

Sherwin-Williams Co.

Andrew Ulbright

10740 Broadway Ave., #B, Garfield Heights, OH 44125-1651 330-353-2838, sherwin-williams.com

Sims-Lohman

Doug Page 34601 Ridge Road, Unit 9B, Willoughby, OH 44094 440-373-1195, sims-lohman.com

Snow Bros. Appliance

Melissa Kent 5528 Mayfield Road, Lyndhurst, OH 44124-2914 440-449-2650, snowappliance.com

Chris Kronenberger 1323 W. River Road, Valley City, OH 44280 330-483-3400, valleycitysupply.com

Virginia Tile Co.

Cody Burgess 4670 Richmond Road, Warrensville Heights, OH 44128-6410 216-741-8400, virginiatile.com

Welker-McKee Supply Co., Division of Hajoca

Ron Buffa 6606 Granger Road, Cleveland, OH 44131-1429 216-447-0050, welkermckee.com

Willoughby Supply Co.

Brad Stalder 7433 Clover Ave., Mentor, OH 44060-5211 440-269-1600, willoughbysupply.com

Winsupply Cleveland, OH Co.

Eunice Evans 4547 Hinckley Industrial Pkwy., Cleveland, OH 44109-6014 216-741-1929, winsupplyofcleveland.com

Wolff Bros. Supply Inc. - Akron

Bob Doherty Jr. 1200 Kelly Ave., Akron, OH 44306-3735 330-773-0200, wolffbros.com

RESOURCE GUIDE

SELECTING A RELIABLE CONTRACTOR

EMPLOY A CONTRACTOR with an established business in your area. Check references from past customers in your area or through your local Better Business Bureau (BBB).

OHIO DOESN’T REQUIRE contractors to be licensed, so we recommend hiring a NARI remodeler. NARI members are put through a screening process to ensure favorable status with the BBB and the Ohio Attorney General’s office. Proof of appropriate local registration, liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance and pledging to follow a strict Code of Ethics are requirements of NARI members.

IF YOU SOLICIT BIDS from several different contractors, be sure they’re bidding on the same scope and quality of work. Discuss variations in bids and beware of any bid that’s substantially lower than the others.

TRADE RELATED

1-888-OHIOCOMP

John Oliverio

2900 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115-2649 216-426-0646, 1-888-ohiocomp.com

Better Business Bureau - Canton

Amanda Tietze

1434 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44703-3103 330-454-9401, canton.bbb.org

Better Business Bureau Serving

Greater Cleveland

Sue McConnell

200 Treeworth Blvd.

Broadview Heights, OH 44147

216-241-7678 • FAX 216-861-6365 bbb.org

For more than 100 years, Better Business Bureau has been helping people find businesses, brands and charities they can trust. Your BBB offers FREE business ratings, scam alerts, customer reviews, request-a-quote and more! Find a trustworthy business at bbb.org.

BOCONEO (Building Officials Conference of Northeast Ohio)

Michael Gero

P.O. Box 505, Novelty, OH 44072 440-537-4548, boconeo.org

City of Cleveland Deptartment of Community Development

Tania Menesse

601 Lakeside Ave., Suite 302, Cleveland, OH 44114-1015 216-664-4000

City of Cleveland Landmarks Commission

Fred Collier 601 Lakeside Ave., Cleveland, OH 44114-1027 216-664-2531, planning.city.cleveland.oh.us/landmark

Cleveland Dumpster Crush aka Crushr

Rob Previte 675 Madison Ave., Aurora, OH 44202 440-725-6020, clevelandcrushr.com

Cuyahoga County Department of Development

Theodore Carter

2079 E. 9th St., Cleveland, OH 44115-1302 216-443-7275

Dollar Bank

Doug Rogers

6868 Pearl Road, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130 440-688-1009, dollarbank.com

Great Lakes Publishing

Paul Klein

1422 Euclid Ave., Suite 730, Cleveland, OH 44115-2001 216-377-3693, clevelandmagazine.com

ISI Solutions LLC

Tim Smelcer

3505 Perkins Ave., Huron, OH 44839 419-871-4549, isisolutions.org

Katzbach Insurance Agency Inc.

John Katzbach Jr.

902 Westpoint Pkwy,. #300, Westlake, OH 44145-1534 440-835-1770, katzbachinsurance.com

Lorain County Habitat for Humanity

Kelly LaRosa

300 Rice Industrial Pkwy., Amherst, OH 44001-2464 440-322-2355, loraincountyhabitat.org

NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction)

Bonnie Felice

P.O. Box 31911, Cleveland, OH 44131-0911 nawiccleveland.org

Ohio Landscape Association

President Stephanie Gray, LIC, OCNT

Executive Director

Sandy Munley

Associate Director

Rick Doll

For advertising information, please call 216-377-3693.

On the cover: H&M Landscaping

Outdoor Investment

Because your biggest investment is your home, the Ohio Landscape Association has created Landscape Ohio! Magazine to help you make smart choices for your property. Did you know that a well-designed and professionally installed landscape can actually grow in value over time, while increasing the value of your home by as much as 15%?

More and more people are investing in their landscape so that they can enjoy family time outdoors or to entertain on a beautifully appointed backyard patio. A new landscape in the front yard increases curb appeal and welcomes visitors to your home.

Whether you are looking for something simple or elaborate, our members can help! We would love to align you with a member from the Ohio Landscape Association. Go to ohiolandscapers.org and click on “Find A Professional” to find an OLA member in your area to help you make your landscape dreams come true!

Respectfully,

Stephanie Gray, LIC, OCNT 2023 OLA President

PROJECT: Outdoor Living

What to expect when you transform your outdoor space into a backyard retreat.

By Kristen Hampshire

Look out into the backyard — step outside and imagine a fully equipped grilling area, maybe a pizza oven, along with a covered space where you can dine or even work. Imagine gathering around a fire pit, listening to the peaceful sound of water bubbling from a grotto, or using your smartphone to click on landscape lights. From elaborate outdoor living spaces to modest yet accommodating patios, what’s in is out.

“Once you have that outdoor living space, it’s a game-changer for your lifestyle,” says Jeff Rak, president of Land Creations Landscaping in Columbia Station and past president of the Ohio Landscape Association.

In many ways, the pandemic ignited a growing interest in spending time outdoors

and extending living spaces into the backyard. “People want everything they have inside to be outside now, they want those features,” Rak points out.

And as home automation advances, bluetooth enabled features for the landscape are also catching on, namely lighting and smart irrigation that can be controlled with an app. “It’s an exciting time in the industry and for customers because of these outdoor living areas where they can spend their time,” Rak says. In fact, he built a pavilion on his own property and sometimes sleeps outdoors on summer nights.

Outdoor living projects can be as simple as a deck and barbecue area or as complex as a multi-tiered patio with retaining walls,

a pavilion and fireplace along with a pool. “We tell clients all the time, ‘If you can dream it, we can build it,’ so if you think of ideas, throw them out there and we’ll add our thoughts as professionals,” says Kerry Cline, president, C&S Lawn Service and Landscape, Wadsworth.

What exactly is involved in bringing an idea to life in the landscape?

Regardless of the project size, the steps are essentially the same, just on a different scale. First comes a budget and inspiration, then meeting with contractors for a design and estimate. A professional design/build firm will guide you through materials selections and the installation process.

Here’s what to expect.

Inspiration on Budget

What is the most you want to spend on your outdoor living project? Budget discussions are key and ultimately guide decisions beginning with what you can afford to include in the space to which materials suit your price point.

When Rak initially meets with clients initially, he usually sits down for an hour to discuss what clients’ have in mind and their budget limits. Then, he can show portfolio pictures of features and share the estimated costs. “I ask, ‘Is this the kind of patio you are looking for? Is this the type of fireplace you are after?’ Then I can share what those projects cost so they can get a feel for where their budget fits in.”

Don’t veer away from talking about the budget upfront, Cline encourages. “We ask for a budget on that initial phone call so we have an idea going into the first meeting,” he says. “We don’t want to design a $100,000 project if the budget is $20,000.”

Designs are based on your appetite to spend. “If they have a budget of $25,000 and want a patio and fireplace, we know that can’t happen right away,” Cline adds, relating that multi-phase projects with a master design allow clients to accomplish what they can afford in stages.

“I have a client now where we are doing landscape beds and the lawn now, and in the fall we will do plantings, and a patio next year,” Cline relates.

While you determine that magic number, also prioritize what landscape features are most important to you and the ultimate goal of the project. (Check out On Trend Outside on page 6.) Pin photos, create an inspo file and search on sites like Houzz, Instagram and Pinterest.

A design/build contractor will ask for your ideas during an initial site visit while walking the property and sometimes taking some preliminary measurements. Anthony Angelotta likes to collect a site plan right away. “If clients have a PDF of the site plan, we can import that into our design program,” says the design/build manager of Angelotta Landscape Associates LLC in Chesterland.

The site plan shows the plot, property lines, structural elements, driveways, landscaping, fencing, power lines, utility poles and setbacks. Your mortgage broker or title company provides this when you purchase a home, and you can request a

Find The Right Contractor

Outdoor living projects require collaboration — it’s an all-in process, and you want to select a contractor you trust. Here are some pointers for finding a reputable design/ build partner.

ASK AROUND.

Are there properties you pass by with beautiful landscaping, or do you admire a friend’s patio? Find out the name of the contractor who completed the work. Check out the Ohio Landscape Association website for a listing of member contractors.

LOOK BEYOND A COMPANY’S WEB PAGE.

“You might see all of these great project photos and it’s stock photography,” warns Jeff Rak, president, Land Creations Landscaping, Columbia Station. “Go on Facebook and you can see the projects they are working on and get a clearer picture of what they do.”

INTERVIEW CONTRACTORS.

Kerry Cline suggests meeting with two or three companies to discuss your project after an initial phone call. “Explain your vision and ensure that the contractor is engaged and understands what you want, answers your questions, and gives you ideas to better your project,” says the president of C&S Lawn Care Lawn Service and Landscape in Wadsworth.

CHECK CREDENTIALS.

Be sure the contractor is licensed and bonded, and depending on where you live, the company might need licensing with your city’s building department. “This is important because your job could get shut down,” Rak points. “If they are not licensed in your community, ask if they are willing to do so.”

ON TREND OUTSIDE

WHAT’S OUT IS IN.

FIRE FEATURES.

From wood-burning fire pits to fire tables that turn on with an app, working warmth into the landscape creates an appealing conversation space and takes the chill out of cool nights. You can go practical – or pow! “We do projects where we create pillars with fire coming out of the top for wow factor,” says Kerry Cline, president, C&S Lawn Care, Wadsworth.

UNDER COVER.

Pavilions are a popular request at Land Creations Landscaping in Columbia Station. “More people want that full, overhead structure,” says Jeff Rak, president. Most are open air, some include a back wall fireplace, all feel like a family room.

LIGHT THE NIGHT.

Landscape lighting extends the time you can enjoy the outdoors, and rather than an afterthought, Anthony Angelotta emphasizes to clients how this feature adds a whole other dimension to an outdoor living space. The design/build manager at Angelotta Service and Landscaping in Chesterland notes how smart technology allows you to control LED lighting – including changing colors – from an app. “Accent lights and wall wash lights, pathlights and uplighting all at various brightness illuminates the outdoors and looks natural,” he says.

JUST ADD WATER. Pondless water features that recirculate water are low-maintenance and can be highly customized. Cline says customers request barnstone or natural rock with bubblers so water pours over the textured surface. “We also install larger water features with multiple stream beds and multiple drops,” he says.

copy of it from the county. These are often available online.

Mainly, that initial meeting is to discuss budget, share ideas and understand what existing features will stay, if any — and how you imagine using the space when your dream project is complete. Lifestyle is a big part of the conversation. Who will use the space and how will you spend time there? Do you entertain large groups? Do you have young children?

Make sure everyone in the household is on the same page about what features are important. “So many times, we’ll go out to a property and a husband and wife are thinking two different things,” Cline relates. “Come together as a family, do some research on websites, and that’s also a great time to come up with a budget.”

From Concept to Design

After an initial meeting with one or more contractors — and it’s a good idea to interview a few companies — you can partner with the best fit for your project and the design process begins. (See Find the Right Contractor on page 5.) Some firms charge a design fee, and you might be asked to provide a deposit before the company measures your property.

“We also photograph everything and we ask clients for specifics, talking about colors and materials they might want to have included in the landscape,” Rak says.

Landscape design software brings plans to life in rendering form so you can see how your ideas will play out in the backyard.

Many municipalities require permits, and depending on the design and community, engineered drawings could also be necessary. As soon as the contract is signed and design completed, contractors should pursue this process. “We might have to change the scope of work to comply with a permit,” Cline says, relating that not until a permit is issued can work begin. That said, most of the townships his company serves do not ask for a permit and the construction process can begin once materials for the project arrive.

“The supply chain has gotten better,” Cline adds.

Angelotta says, “We lead customers toward materials that are readily available and go with their project.”

Locally sourced and Ohio-made products are usually available in a week or two, Rak says. “Our goal is, as soon as a project is sold,

Functional luxury is the way outdoor living projects are trending, as we redefine “go out” to the backyard. Here are some in-demand projects landscape contractors are building to bring the amenities we enjoy indoors to the outside.  FIRE: GROUND WORKS LAND DESIGN PAVILION: LANDSCAPES BY TERRA

we meet with the client at our suppliers’ locations, look at materials and make selections. We purchase them as quickly as we can so they are in the queue and we can begin construction.”

While the supply chain has loosened up, project lead times are still backed up because of the demand for outdoor living projects. Rak says Land Creations Landscaping can usually schedule a simple planting or patio within a month, but the wait for large projects like outdoor kitchens and multi-level patios are scheduled ahead for several months.

“A good question to ask a contractor is, ‘How many jobs will you be working on while mine is in progress?’” Rak says. “We like to set up and stay on a project, and we are in constant communication daily–texting, emailing or face to face. We like to really stay focused, and that builds confidence with the customer.”

A Work in Progress

Communication, patience and expectations are a few reasons why design/build projects go awry. You want a contractor who is transparent and responsive, and who lets you know who the point person is for your project if not the owner. Often, an account manager or crew leader is the one who will keep in touch with you with project updates.

Patience is essential because hiccups happen. Materials come in late. A plant you specified might not be in stock, but there

are alternatives. “We try to show pictures of plants, but until you get it in the yard, it can be hard to visualize,” Rak says. “It’s a living plant and each one grows differently and flowers differently.”

There are variables like weather that can delay projects.

And anytime there’s a change, that adds more time to the process.“Relay your expectations to your contractor, and if you see something wrong while the work is in

progress, let the contractor know as soon as possible,” Cline advises.

Expect fees if the scope or a material changes after the contract is signed and design completed. Ideally, review the contract thoroughly, line by line, and ask questions if you are not sure about a specification or material. “Make sure you understand what the proposal says so there is no gray area, it’s all black and white so your expectations will be met when the time comes to do the work,” Cline says.

Ultimately, the process of designing and installing an outdoor living space — especially one with multiple features — is a lot like building a house. It takes time and there are many details and decisions involved. Some families take a year or longer to nail down the design, Rak says, adding that projects have expanded in scope during the past few years. While his company does smaller-scale patio projects, most are in the $100,000 range.

Here again is where phase work and a long-term mindset can help you achieve the outdoor living space you imagine.

“People are investing in their landscapes,” Rak confirms, relating that less travel and dining out has pushed people’s priorities to home and making the most of it. “Clients keep telling us they want to spend more time in their yards.”

© DAVID ALAN PHOTOGRAPHY

A GROWING Landscape

With outdoor living projects in demand and a labor shortage across the green industry, the market is blooming with opportunity.

By Kristen Hampshire

Outdoor living has taken on a whole new meaning as more people are embracing their backyards as an extension of the home, and the landscape industry is thriving across the board, with demands for enhancements, large-scale projects and maintenance.

Across the country, the green industry is 130 billion strong, says Laura Deeter, full professor, program coordinator, Horticultural Science + Landscape Horticulture at The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute (ATI) in Wooster.

The average growth rate for the landscaping industry is 5% to 9%

“With Covid, I think the whole industry was surprised to find out how important we

really were, and with all the calls we were getting, a typical four- to six-week backlog became in excess of a year,” says Brian Maurer, president, Brian-Kyles in Lorain.

Now the backlog has loosened up and the supply chain lag that limited materials options is not so much an issue. Maurer’s business is now working three to four months out for design/build projects, and acquiring supplies like pavers, plants, lumber and stone is back to a reasonable timeline.

But there’s more work than workers. And there’s more demand for landscape projects than time to complete them, in some instances. Those two variables create an attractive job market and career pathways for a diverse range of talent, from those who

prefer fresh air and hands-on work to business positions like marketing, accounting and operations. There’s a lot involved in running a landscape firm — and there is a lot of opportunity.

Deeter fields 20 to 30 calls weekly from landscape companies looking for talent. The green industry is “very healthy, and if you can’t find a career in this industry, you aren’t looking,” she says.

At Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C), two career boards cover a wall with landscape internships and full-time job opportunities with attractive pay and benefits. “The thing is jam-packed with flyers stacked on top of each other,” says Jim Funai, professor of plant science and landscape technology. “There

are literally five job opportunities a piece for every student in the program.”

He adds, “We are seeing a recent trend where people realize they are happier outside and they want to be physical in their job, and to be healthy and moving.”

Advancing the Landscape

In this hands-on industry, technology is evolving the way professionals maintain landscapes, complete projects and run their businesses.

“One thing a labor shortage does is drive innovation,” Deeter points out. In the maintenance sector, robotics are entering the picture with some companies testing commercial-grade models on clients’ properties. It’s not common, but it’s out there. “If you teach the mower a pattern, it can cut the large lawn while the crewperson does things like pruning or edging — and making sure the mower does what it is supposed to do.”

GPS-guided construction equipment is also on the scene. “There are skid-steer loaders and other equipment that operate on GPS and can do tasks like leveling,” Deeter says. “And plant identification apps are getting better, as is design software.”

Deeter knows of a program with virtual reality (VR) headsets so designers can build a project in the software, take the VR headset to a client’s property and show them how their space can be transformed. “We are seeing technology all over the place,” she says. That includes customer service apps and business technologies for scheduling, routing and accepting payments.

Just as our homes are more automated, so are outdoor features like landscape lighting and irrigation systems. “There are smart irrigation systems that detect soil moisture,

and you can control irrigation from your phone,” Deeter says. And by “you,” she is also speaking to landscape contractors who can address irrigation system issues remotely in some cases.

Smart systems help promote conservation — and, after all, landscaping is the original green industry. “There is a lot today going on designed around sustainability,” Maurer says, pointing to water-saving technologies for irrigation and energywise LED landscape lighting. “The same goes for landscaping. We are getting into more native plants that are sustainable for the area.” These require fewer “inputs” like water, fertilizer and diseasecontrol to thrive because they are suited for the region’s climate.

Many Career Pathways

Landscape careers are so much more than mowing lawns, Maurer emphasizes. “It’s a skilled occupation,” and beyond the green industry trades, businesses hire carpenters, masons, electricians, plumbers and those with expertise in sales, marketing and accounting.

Also, the industry needs many types of minds. “If you are creative and on the artistic side, there is landscape design and seasonal plantings, or interior landscape design,” Funai points out.

“For more techy people, there is a lot of computer estimating that is going in the direction of AI,” he continues. “And on the construction side, we need people who want to build and create — and in the nursery you are growing and propagating plants. For those of us who love to climb trees, taking care of trees is about preservation.”

Property management, extension services, research and advocacy are also aspects of the

landscape industry that offer opportunity, Deeter says. And there are many ways to enter the industry, with formal training like an associates degree, through an internship or by sheer interest and leveraging a landscaping company’s in-house training.

“There are wonderful companies out there that offer benefits, retirement plans and they pay well,” Deeter says.

Looking ahead, she says she is most excited about the students and talent entering the industry. “They want to learn, and they are very concerned about the environment,” she relates. “It’s cool to see how they think about their future in this industry, and they are excited about where they can go with it.”

Students taking ID quiz in the snow

Students installing bricks on campus

Students working on a design together COURTESY LAURA DEETER

GARDEN HOME &

"The kitchen was my quest," says social media influencer and chef Aubrey Johnasen.

Reimagined Row Home

Influencer and recipe developer Aubrey Johansen shares ingredients for transforming her Ohio City address into a modern and family-functional home.

Curating delectable dishes with everyday ingredients — adding a fresh twist to comfort food — is the daily menu for Aubrey Johansen, better known by her social media handle ThatsWhatSheEats. The influencer, chef and recipe developer for brands like Vitamix and her wife, Megan, share a taste for the industrial and cozy, modern and whimsical. So, when the time came for them to renovate their Ohio City historic abode, they went for an aesthetic that is approachable and creative. Admittedly, seeing beyond the 1970s kitchen, sunken living room, choppy floor plan and deteriorated basement required “vision,” Johansen says with a laugh. “But we have a friend who owned a unit a few doors down, so we walked through and saw the potential.” They purchased the row house in May 2022. “We were both craving a little switch-up, I guess,” she says, adding they had lived in Cleveland for a decade prior. They enlisted David Villa of Villa Renovations. The project started that June, and now the Johansens, their pets and a baby on the way are making their house a home.

A RECIPE FOR LIFE

It all starts in the kitchen, for Johansen. “Because I am a chef, the kitchen was my quest — and we wanted to keep it industrial and a little masculine but charming with some quirks,” she says.

The first order of business was to open up a standard 30-inch doorway between this space and the main living area. The kitchen was an add-on about 50 years ago, so the wall was actually the brick back of the house encased in drywall. The goal: Free up 10 feet of space for an airy main level.

Using a hammer, single bricks and layers were painstakingly removed while a temporary frame held up the load-bearing wall.

The Johansens selected a six-burner range, seeking out dent-and-scratch and overstock appliances because of the supply chain slowdown at the time. “When all appliances were on backorder, we were able to see it and buy it the same day,” she says.

Navy cabinets juxtapose a creamy white brick backsplash, tying in with exposed brick throughout. Look down for whimsy — they chose four tile colors that Villa “un-patterned,” per their request. “We tried to make a pattern so many times, and finally said, ‘Let’s be random,’” Johansen quips.

A hand-drawn, black-and-white mural by Shelly Svonavec of Svona Studio washes the back kitchen wall with herbs and citrus. “What better to put in a kitchen than the things we use all the time?” Johansen relates, adding that the artist included a hidden Easter egg with the couple’s wedding date, 9-18-21.

Clean, white quartz countertops with a generous island provide plenty of workspace, and conveniences like a smart faucet are all about function. “You can wave your hand over it to turn it on or off, which is great if you have raw chicken hands or bread batter all over you,” Johansen points out.

A generous refurbished farm table invites guests to linger. She says, “We love to be at home, and we wanted to create this space for friends and family to spend time and relax.”

RECONFIGURED CONVENIENCES

Moving laundry from the basement to the main level involved repurposing a coat closet, and a pint-sized office space next to it allowed for a powder room, which also features a Svonavec mural — this time, rainbows.

As for the lower level, walls with magnesium buildup from decades of water and salt buildup were scraped and waterproofed. Villa finished the floor with textured enamel and now the basement offers clean, dry built-in storage for extra dinnerware, serving dishes and photography equipment that Johansen uses for culinary shoots.

UPSTAIRS UPGRADES

With two roomy bedrooms and a bath upstairs — and minimalist closets with gilded-frame mirror doors — the Johansens considered how the level could better suit their lifestyle and future. With a baby on the way (due mid-July), they will carve a nursery out of the second bedroom while borrowing space for a walk-in closet that functions like a Jack-and-Jill.

Upstairs upgrades include warm luxury vinyl plank flooring that coordinates with the original hardwood on the main level, along with fresh creamy-colored paint and a sophisticated black accent wall in the master. The bathroom’s pedestal sink frees up space.

The reimagined row house is home sweet home for the couple and promises to house many special memories in the coming years.

“It’s an inviting place for gathering," Johansen says.

PRO TIPS

Before you contract with a remodeler, ask these important questions.

Trust your gut. And go with the flow. “Renovations always have unexpected turns, but it’s fun to be a part of the process and know there is a light at the end of the tunnel where you will sit on your couch in the new space and think, ‘Oh, my gosh — we really live here,’” relates Aubrey Johansen, who with wife Megan enlisted in Villa Renovations to complete a wholehouse remodel. The Johansens leveraged the FHA 203k home improvement loan that rolls renovations into the mortgage, so budgeting was exact.

Check credentials. Is the company bonded and insured? What certifications or specializations does the contractor have?

“Ask if they’ve ever taken on a project like the one you have in mind,” David Villa advises.

Ask about subs. Find out what parts of the project will be performed by in-house installers and what aspects will be subcontracted. If you’re working with an individual contractor, find out who he or she partners with for plumbing, electrical, painting and so on. Request a vendor list.

Plan ahead. While the supply chain has loosened up, there are still wait times to consider when selecting flooring, countertops, cabinets, appliances and more.

“It’s ideal if you can make those choices in the beginning so everything is on hand," Villa says.

The Ohio City couple turned an old house into a home, fitting for them and their baby on the way. "It's an inviting place for gathering," Aubrey Johansen says.

Distinctive Homes

RESULTS. GUARANTEED. LOU BARBEE | 440-899-0000

AVON LAKE

Bright 4 bedroom colonial with open floor plan. Spacious living room features a gas fireplace. Casual dining area and vaulted family room surrounded by windows. Private master suite with walk-in and remodeled bath. Close to parks, playgrounds, and much more.

RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000

LAKEWOOD | LAKEFRONT

Exquisite syle. Flawless execution. Combined 2 story luxury penthouse with Lake Erie and downtown views that will take your breath away. Massive great room. Floor to ceiling windows. Balcony on 2 levels. 4 prime garage spaces with EV charger.

RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000

LAKEWOOD

Wonderful all brick mid-century 3 bedroom home on one of Lakewood’s most coveted streets, just steps from Lakewood Park. Unique for the location, offering meticulous maintenance, an uncommonly large fenced yard. Central air. Move-in condition. Attached 2 car garage.

RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000

BRATENAHL

Outstanding free-standing cluster home just steps from Shoreby Club and Lake Erie. The 2-story entry opens to the great room. Open. Bright. High volume ceilings. Elegant dining room. Home office. Kitchen and dinette open to a spacious “hearth room.” All redone.

RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000

AVON LAKE | LAKEFRONT

Unobstructed lake views. 3-story vaulted ceilings and open concept living. Walls of windows grace the Lake side. Formal rooms flow into kitchen and family room. The master suite features sweeping views, fireplace, and balcony. Mature landscaping for privacy. 3 car garage.

RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000

LAKEWOOD | LAKEFRONT

Offering over 5000 sq. ft. of sophisticated style. 3 full bedroom suites including spectacular master with gas fireplace, sitting room-office, huge walk-in closet with built-ins, and sensational master bath with steam shower, Jacuzzi, double sinks, and more. When only the best will do.

RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS

Classic 4 bedroom colonial offering outstanding “work from home” opportunities. Private 2-story addition with an exceptional home office on the 1st and huge master suite up. Many upgrades. New HVAC. Replacement windows. Hardwood floors. 2 car garage.

RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000

BRATENAHL

One floor living. 1st floor master with walk-in tub and jacuzzi. Large private brick courtyard.  2nd floor loft overlooks the great room. 2 generous guest rooms. Over 4000 sq. ft. above grade plus 2400 sq. ft. in finished lower level with rec. room, bar, full bedroom suite.

899-0000

RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440)

Look Back

WHEN WATERWAYS INC. proposed a passenger ship from Detroit to Cleveland in May 1954, they noted a few peculiarities needed to be resolved. To begin, right in the middle of East Ninth Street Pier, “somebody’s got a hamburger joint.”

Captain Frank’s Sea Food Restaurant — or Lobster House, depending on the season — did serve steaks alongside primarily nautical fare, from a king crab a la Rockefeller dish to Cuban-influenced scampi drenched in a garlic sauce.

Frank’s literally was accessible by land, air and sea: Even for a German U-505 submarine docked at Frank’s en route to Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry. Once Lake Erie drowned the sun, entertainers roved to the rollicking haunt. Among them Nelson Eddy, Judy Garland,

Flip Wilson and Stevie Wonder.

The owner of the lease that “never seemed to expire” was Frank Visconti. He immigrated to Cleveland from Palermo, Italy, in 1914. He became the discarded boat depot’s proprietor in 1953, netting an agreement with the city to repair $30,000 worth. Visconti eventually sank more than $60,000 into the restaurant.

For 36 years, Captain Frank’s survived talk of lakefront development, dredging, city council squabbles and water-bound motorists. Its allure dissolved after Visconti died in 1984. In 1989, new owner Rudolph Hubka, Jr. declared bankruptcy, owing the city alone $41,000. The building was demolished for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. Today, Nuevo Modern Mexican floats the old address.