tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-150538392024-03-23T13:45:43.555-04:00Bedford Ohio BlogNews, info and comment on events and issues in Bedford, OhioUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-40781679691419396972018-11-25T00:30:00.001-05:002018-11-25T00:30:31.975-05:00<font face="Times" size="1" class=""><br class=""></font><div class=""><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;">What a surprise! <a href="http://floor.patentsiliconbeach.com" class="">http://floor.patentsiliconbeach.com</a></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;"></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;">I'm totally impressed!</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><br class=""></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;">Ron Lisy</div><div style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;" class=""><font face="Times" size="1" class=""><br class=""></font></div><font face="Times" size="1" class=""><br class="Apple-interchange-newline"> </font></div> <br class="">Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-83100032995353017282018-10-03T18:45:00.000-04:002018-10-03T19:03:00.188-04:00Re:<div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><span class=Heading1Char><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;color:windowtext'><o:p> </o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:115%'><span class=MsoIntenseEmphasis><span style='color:windowtext'><a href="http://opportunity.lunte.net"> <span style='font-style:normal'>http://opportunity.lunte.net</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span class=MsoIntenseEmphasis><sup><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></sup></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'>Ron Lisy<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span class=MsoIntenseReference><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-34228523762943244732018-08-25T10:02:00.000-04:002018-08-25T10:09:48.013-04:00Re:<div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><a href="http://term.junkyardtampa.com">http://term.junkyardtampa.com</a><span style='font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Arial",sans-serif;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'>Ron Lisy<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-37462897661239456152018-03-13T06:38:00.000-04:002018-03-13T06:46:17.936-04:00<div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:115%'><em><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p><p class=MsoNormal><a href="http://release.therealjake.com">http://release.therealjake.com</a></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:115%'><em><sup><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></sup></em></p><p class=MsoNormal>Ron Lisy<o:p></o:p></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:115%'><em><sup><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></sup></em></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:115%'><em><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p><p class=MsoNormal style='line-height:115%'><em><span style='font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif'><o:p> </o:p></span></em></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-82200326659537681232007-04-14T06:47:00.000-04:002007-04-15T20:16:46.959-04:00Plans for the Depot<h2> Depot plans still unclear</h2><div class="byline"> </div> <div class="dateline">March 22, 2007</div> <div class="mcopy"> </div> <p>by Emily Canning-Dean</p> <p>Reporter</p> <p>Bedford -- Since last summer, the area where a gray vinyl-sided storage building used to sit across from Southeast Suburban Branch Post Office has been a pile of gravel, but city officials are hoping to eventually put the land to good use. </p> <p>The building, which city officials said was in disrepair, once was Bedford's first railroad depot and was built in 1852. However, few of the historic parts of the building remained and it was torn down last summer because upgrading it would have been too expensive, officials said.</p> <p>The building should not be confused with the 1882 railroad depot, which still exists on the west side of the Commons.</p> <p>Some ideas were proposed over what to do with the space, but nothing was decided.</p> <p>"I need to talk to Council and kick around some ideas," said City Manager Bob Reid. "I'm thinking that right now we could just pave the area and use it for parking until we find something else to do with it. Right now it's just gravel. We need to do something with it."</p> <p>Reid said he expects the area would offer a paved lot with 15 to 20 parking spaces which could be used to accommodate vehicles during weekend festivals in the summer and parties in the park on Wednesday evenings. </p> <p>Eventually, Reid said he would like to see something else done with the space. He has suggested that the city install a skating rink/wading fountain on the site. </p> <p>"I just think it would be a nice addition to the area," he said. "People could skate in the winter and then we would have a pond or fountain in the summer."</p> <p>Opinions vary among city officials.</p> <p>Ward 6 Councilor Don Saunders said he doesn't see a need to construct anything on the site. </p> <p>"I would just like to see it become part of the Square," he said. "It would be nice to have a hard surface where we could put kiddie rides. I've heard some people have concerns about the rides on the grass areas because it damages the grass."</p> <p>Mayor Dan Pocek said he thinks paving the area might be the best action taken now, but he would like to see something else done with it in the future. </p> <p>"I would eventually like to see us open the site up to commercial use," Pocek said. "I also think we need to set up something on the site noting the historical significance of the old depot."</p> <p>Bedford Historical Society Director Janet Caldwell said the historical society has no immediate plans to set up a historical marker. </p> <p>"It's not up to us because the city owns the property," she said. "But if the city requests, we could arrange for some sort of plaque."</p> <p>Reid said he will consult Council members about their wishes for the site within the next few months.</p><br />=============================<br /><br />I think this brings up a good question. This is a plot of land which the city now has, but it is an awkward size and many great ideas to be discussed.<br /><br />Parking is one issue that could be crippling our downtown businesses. The Romitos building was a prime spot where parking is concerned, and now it seems to be sold to an up and coming restaurant. So I can see a parking lot as a quick fix.<br /><br />I am an advocate of Mr. Reid's ice rink plan. It would be nice to have a skating rink during the winter. Perhaps even large enough for a junior hockey league during our winter season. But the skating will absolutely bring people downtown during the winter months. Being close to Arabica, a restaurant, a hobby shop, and a music shop can only give our young residents and the businesses along Broadway something to look forward to.<br /><br />Mayor Pocek is a history buff and I too would like to see something to commemorate the history of the location. I do, however, disagree with the idea of turning it into commercial land at this time. I might not know something that the mayor knows, but we need to focus on building the downtown area and filling the vacant stores before we expand it. The zoning committee will have to be on their toes in the next few months.<br /><br />Mr. Saunders has his concerns that the land should be used for expanding the square and becoming a place where the kiddies rides can be put, to save the grass. Now, I find this to be a smart idea, but I don't know the true impact on the grass due to the rides.<br /><br />I find this article to be thought provoking because it brings light to one piece of land that has wonderful location to our downtown district and then highlights the city's different opinions. Something will be done to this land and I am excited to see what will.<br /><br />I would like to ask the question of "<span style="font-weight: bold;">what you, the reader, would like to see the land be used for?"<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-35761405015738948242007-04-08T10:36:00.000-04:002007-04-08T10:56:15.055-04:00Gibbons Hire ignites controversy<dt id="c3259637653760606830"><div class="profile-image-container"><h3 class="post-title"><h3 class="post-title"><span class="post-labels" style="font-size:78%;"></span></h3></h3></div><dt><div class="profile-image-container"><h3 class="post-title"><h3 class="post-title"><span class="post-labels" style="font-size:78%;">In case you are not aware a controversy has erupted over the hiring of experienced outsider John Gibbons as Bedford High School Head Football Coach, over current Bedford Head Basketball Coach & longtime Football Assistant Coach Everett Heard. King's Right Site has covered the topic, and their article and a few reader comments are re-posted here. Please feel free to add your comments here and to visit King's Right Site to comment as well.</span></h3></h3></div><dt><div class="profile-image-container"><h3 class="post-title"><h3 class="post-title"><span style="font-size:78%;">Click Here for King's Right Site- </span><a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/04/will-bedford-school-district-bypass.html"><span style="font-size:78%;">http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/04/will-bedford-school-district-bypass.html</span></a></h3></h3></div><dt><div class="profile-image-container"><h3 class="post-title"><h3 class="post-title"><a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/04/will-bedford-school-district-bypass.html"><span style="font-size:78%;">Will Bedford School District bypass "2006 Coach of the Year" because of color?</span></a><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span></h3></h3></div><dt><div class="profile-image-container"><div class="post-header-line-1"><span style="font-size:78%;"></span></div><div class="post-body"><p><a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/02/bedford-school-district-abducts-city.html"><span style="font-size:78%;color:#33cc00;">Bedford City School District</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color:#ffffff;"><span style="font-size:78%;">, is</span> currently conducting a search for the Head Coaching position of the varsity football team. Current coach Paul</span><span style="color:#000000;"> <span style="color:#ffffff;">Staats,</span> <a href="http://bedfordohio.blogspot.com/2006/10/state-of-schools-every-fall-this-is.html"><span style="color:#33cc00;">who received mixed reviews from players and parents</span></a></span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color:#ffffff;">, will be replaced for the upcoming season.<br /><br />The school board has summarily dismissed the application of a long time BHS educator and asst. coach, Mr. Everett Heard (Coach Heard) and are leaning towards former St. Ed football coach, John Gibbons. While qualified, Gibbons has no ties to the Bedford District.<br /><br />Whereas Gibbons has no ties to the district, Coach Heard has been in our district in excess of 25 years as a gym teacher, coaches of several sports and was chosen</span> </span><a href="http://www.bedfordoh.gov/minutes_archive.asp?minutes_ID=240"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#33cc00;">2006 "Coach of the Year"</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color:#ffffff;">by the State of Ohio.<br /><br />Coach Heard has been one of the few coach's who has brought home state titles and consistently produces successful teams. Coach Heard also has the support of three former Bedford players who are now in the NFL.<br /><br />Some of the more involved parents found out that, once again & as usual, the Bedford School Board Members are trying to keep this decision making process from the public and have included no parent input. Note: This is typical behavior of our board when their agenda or selection may differ from community sentiment.<br /><br />Personally, I am strongly against anyone being hired (or not hired) because of the color of their skin. I feel merit as an educator, positive interaction and the ability to be a role model to the children should be paramount in the decision making process for selecting anyone to be involved with children.<br /><br />Because of being a racially changing district, more role models are needed for the African-American boys in our school. But let's not forget the white kids also – Mr. Heard is a role model for ALL students!<br /><br />As a former student, I can attest Coach Heard brings all these qualities to the table and more... I cannot express my support enough for Mr. Heard. If not for this man, I would have been kicked out of school a lot more often and a lot sooner. That he would not be the hands down candidate is beyond belief.<br /><br />In a failing district such as Bedford Schools, we cannot afford the duplicity being served by our school board. While they routinely preach parental involvement, the need of good role models, and the other</span> </span><a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/02/nea-education-nazis.html"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#33cc00;">$2 quotes and excuses typical of educators,</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;color:#000000;"> </span><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffffff;">our district and students continue to falter.<br /><br />With contract negotiations for teachers coming up, be ready for the hypocrisy - I can't wait to be told how </span><a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/01/poor-teachers.html"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#33cc00;">wonderful our teachers are so they can justify a raise</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color:#ffffff;">to be paid for on our backs, yet they ignore parental input and pass over one of the best we have!<br /><br />Let's hope many parents and leaders of this community will wake up and stop allowing the BHS board members to lead them like sheep to slaughter.<br /><br />In usual Bedford School Board fashion, these covert proceedings will end with a "special meeting" today at 4:00pm.<br /></span><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color:#33cc00;"><em><strong>The following is a letter from an involved parent -</strong></em> (edited for length)<br /></span><br /></span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color:#ffffff;">Wednesday, April 04, 2007<br /><br />Via Electronic Mail<br /><br />Bedford Board of Education Members<br />Debora J. Kozak, President<br />Barbara A. Patterson, Vice President (Via Facsimile)<br />Andrew C. M. Mizsak, M.A.P.<br />Tim Tench<br />Joseph V. Mestnik<br /><br />Dear Elected School Board Members:<br /><br />Surely, it can't be true that this Thursday, April 5, at 4:00 PM, during a "special" Bedford Board of Education meeting that you are prepared to vote on the next head football coach, at Bedford High School who will directly impact the educational opportunities and future of our beloved Bedford Bearcats; but even more disconcerting is that you allegedly are considering an individual whose experience with students of color is purportedly limited at best.<br /><br />Why is this happening under the radar?<br /><br />I was surprised to find out that Coach Staats is even leaving, as I have heard absolutely nothing but raving reviews on his coaching style and his ability to build the "self-esteem" of the current student body attending Bedford High School. And it is my understanding he works diligently at getting Bedford High School students into college for a free education.....<br /><br />With that said, an individual who has an established track record of caring, student respect, and absolute knowledge of the game has applied for the head football coach position - Coach Everett Heard.<br /><br />There are former Bedford graduates, both black and white who still speak his name with admiration throughout this community. (My husband, an avid sport enthusiast, thought highly of Coach Heard and would have been quite vocal about this head football coach position.) Why are we even considering anyone from the 'outside' when we have homegrown talent among our ranks?</span> <span style="color:#33cc00;">(Note from King - Mr. Robinson, was a guidance counselor dearly loved and respected by staff & students. Mr. Robinson was taken from us last year when he suddenly passed away.)</span><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color:#ffffff;">I have done a preliminary investigation about the gentleman who you (elected school board members) are trying to allegedly "hand" the coaching job to at Bedford High School. Former fired football coach John Gibbons "appears" to have issues. The alleged incident that occurred last year in Lakewood while he was the head football coach at St. Edward High School cannot and should not be ignored.<br /><br />Secondly, is there any truth to this gentleman allegedly being walked off the field or escorted out of the building by the police?<br /><br />Thirdly, why would we bring someone into 'our' school district that allegedly has no real hands-on experience with students of color? This gentleman's experience in Streetsboro in the mid-1970s certainly didn't give him that experience, nor did it at Lake Catholic. And the St. Edward's football team isn't comprised of predominately people of color either. According to my sources, the young men of color on that team were walking on "egg shells."<br /><br />My fourth point…the Bedford City Schools showcases (boasts) their partnership with the National Football League, namely Bedford High School graduates, Lee Evans, Eric Beverly, and Chris Chambers. It is my understanding that these NFL players all telephoned to support Coach Heard for the head football coach position. And their support (phone calls) was totally ignored.<br /><br />Coach Heard has a proven track record with ALL students. He understands them; they respect him, and he has been part of the sports program for a number of years in this school district.<br /><br />…it is my understanding that the Bedford High School football players signed a petition requesting Coach Heard as the head football coach. And this petition was totally ignored.<br /><br />Why??? Don't student voices matter? Or is it just the voices of the students of color that don't matter?<br /><br />Parent involvement does truly mean being equal partners in decisions that affect 'our' children. There are many educated parents in this school district; and therefore, should be asked to sit at the table for input, representing us, the parents of the children who attend Bedford High School.<br /><br />We, parents, are not just votes for levies and your reelection to office. We are intelligent and quite capable of adding valuable insight with regard to decisions that affect our children.<br /><br />This is another no-brainer decision. Place someone in the head football coach position who knows and respects the students and someone who the students know and respect. Doesn't Coach Heard deserve a chance? And if not, please explain why not.<br /><br />What it really boils down to, in my opinion, is are we trying to do what is right for the students or are we still trying to perpetuate the status quo or maintain a certain 'image' for a different agenda?<br /><br />The priority is the students and what they need to succeed. As a parent of a future football player at Bedford High School, I am concerned about this 'allegedly' pending predetermined selection.<br /><br />Respectfully, a written response to my concerns is requested from all addressed parties.<br /><br />Thank you,<br /><br />Mrs. Michael Robinson (Venezuela)<br /></span><span style="color:#000000;"></span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">*** Bedford School Board Member replies will be posted as they come in***</span><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">To contact the Bedford Board of Education call (440)439-1500</span></span></p><div style="CLEAR: both"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div></div><div class="post-footer"><p class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-1"><span style="color:#ffffff;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span class="post-author">Posted by King </span><span class="post-timestamp">at <a class="timestamp-link" title="permanent link" href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/04/will-bedford-school-district-bypass.html">6:13 AM</a> </span><span class="post-comment-link"><a class="comment-link" onclick="'javascript:window.open(this.href," href="http://www2.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=367191755035338542&postID=5203308901233323424&isPopup=true" height="450" toolbar="0,location=" statusbar="1,menubar=" scrollbars="yes,width=">6 comments</a> </span><span class="post-icons"><span class="item-action"><a title="Email Post" href="http://www2.blogger.com/email-post.g?blogID=367191755035338542&postID=5203308901233323424"><span class="email-post-icon"></span></a></span><span class="item-control blog-admin pid-908850191"><a title="Edit Post" href="http://www2.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=367191755035338542&postID=5203308901233323424"><span class="quick-edit-icon"></span></a></span></span><span class="post-backlinks post-comment-link"><a class="comment-link" href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/04/will-bedford-school-district-bypass.html#links">Links to this post</a> </span></span></span></p><p class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-2"><span class="post-labels"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffffff;">Labels: </span><a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/search/label/Education" rel="tag"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffffff;">Education</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffffff;">, </span><a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/search/label/General" rel="tag"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffffff;">General</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffffff;">, </span><a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/search/label/N/E%20Ohio" rel="tag"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffffff;">N/E Ohio</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span></span></p></div></div><dt><div class="profile-image-container"><div class="post-footer"><p class="post-footer-line post-footer-line-2"><span class="post-labels" style="font-size:85%;color:#ffffff;"><strong><u>READER COMMENTS</u></strong></span></p></div></div><dt><div class="profile-image-container"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><dt><div class="profile-image-container"><a onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/02175591212176951287" rel="nofollow"><span style="font-size:85%;"><img class="profile" title="Jill" height="60" alt="" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger/8045/1343/1600/jillabswrav.jpg" width="43" /></span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span></div><a onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/02175591212176951287" rel="nofollow"><strong><span style="font-size:85%;">Jill</span></strong></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong> said...</strong> </span><dd><p><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ff6666;">Wow - what a frustrating situation for the community! Thanks for blogging about this, with this level of specificity from a townsperson.<br /><br />-but don't think I've forgotten your mystery post, person who calls himself King! :) </span></p><p class="comment-timestamp"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ff6666;">April 5, 2007 11:11 AM </span></p><div class="r"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><dt id="c2034764940742829361"><a onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/00858781035308252728" rel="nofollow"><strong><span style="font-size:85%;">Ben</span></strong></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong> said...</strong> </span><dd><p><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffff99;">maybe they are trying to hire the person they feel is the best football coach regardless of race </span></p><p class="comment-timestamp"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffff99;">April 6, 2007 12:36 AM </span></p><div class="r"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><dt id="c8382723431657865570"><a onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13899219163753780622" rel="nofollow"><strong><span style="font-size:85%;">King</span></strong></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong> said...</strong> </span><dd><p><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ff0000;">Yes Jill it is frustrating! Our schools, being the gateway to the community are dragging us down.<br /><br />Elected city officials from cities served by our district, refuse to publicly speak out about our failing schools.<br /><br />In private many have voiced their dismay and disgust over the lack of improvement and excess of excuses.<br /><br />The reason they keep quite is, they allow the schools to hold them hostage over tax abatements.<br /><br />If the city officials speak out, then they will have a difficult time having the school approve any tax abatements.<br /><br />Ben -<br /><br />If this was a case of hiring the best candidate, I would be strongly supporting the schools. But it is not.<br /><br />I would be just as upset if the schools were to hire a "black" coach just because of the color of his skin.<br /><br />Coach Heard has been a successful teacher and coach (asst coach for football)in several sports and has won state championships.<br /><br />*** I found out last night, the board hired former St. Ed's coach, John Gibbons, to be our new football coach.***<br /><br />I have been told that in the typical Dog & Pony Show usually put on by Bedford School's, they paraded around some African-American kids with Gibbons before the hiring.<br /><br />You can be sure, this is not over!<br /><br />Jill the post you refer to was not a phantom post. I removed it because I learned it was inaccurate.<br /><br />KING </span></p><p class="comment-timestamp"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ff0000;">April 6, 2007 5:25 AM </span></p><div class="r"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><dt id="c7493751449217176568"><a onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13899219163753780622" rel="nofollow"><strong><span style="font-size:85%;">King</span></strong></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong> said...</strong> </span><dd><p><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffff99;">oops, forgot to add this.<br /><br />It should be noted, ALL our school board members are democrats. Two (2) are on the central committee for the Cuyahoga dems.<br /><br />As this incident screams racism, please explain how the so called "Defenders of Civil Rights" democrats would do something like this?<br /><br />Or is the speaking out on civil rights and equalty for African-Americans only an election ploy to continue fooling the blacks to vote for the dems?<br /><br />It appears to be the latter!<br /><br />KING </span></p><p class="comment-timestamp"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffff99;">April 6, 2007 5:32 AM </span></p><div class="r"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><dt id="c6965871167885938437"><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Anonymous said...</strong> </span><dd><p><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ff0000;">I have the utmost respect for Coach Heard. He is a dedicated educator, a fine coach, a wonderful role model and a fine representative of our community.<br /><br />But, here's a thought...<br /><br />...this isn't about color, it's about qualifications and availability.<br /><br />Coach Heard was the 2005-2006 Ohio Division I coach of the year in BASKETBALL. Not football. Leaving that tidbit out of your discertation, omits a key piece of information, don't you think?<br /><br />And, most high school sports "experts" would eagerly admit that it is extremely difficult, if not virtually impossible, to be a head coach in two varsity sports, when their seasons are back to back.<br /><br />Which sport gets the short end of the coaching stick?<br /><br />What happens if the football team makes the playoffs? How do you effectively start basketball practice?<br /><br />How does the coach have those difficult discussions with players? You know the ones, the ones about not being good enough to get playing time in football, but being a star on the basketball team.<br /><br />I think that puts a coach in a very difficult position.<br /><br />I say be the head coach in one sport, and excel at it, which Coach Heard does with basketball.<br /><br />This isn't about race from my perspective. To portray this as a race issue is wrong, and candidly, isn't fair to Coach Heard or Coach Gibbons.<br /><br />You take exception to the board meeting. I wasn' there, but if your facts are correct, I say, if there are African American players who have a great deal of respect for Coach Gibbons, why not trot them out?<br /><br />Especially, when there are letters being written that come right out and say that the man doesn't know how to deal with African American players....and worse.<br /><br />Coach Heard has coached individuals to state championships in track. But, I don't believe his resume includes any team state championships. (A state runner up in basketball in 2000!) Again, we're being just a bit loose with the facts.<br /><br />He is a great coach. But, head coach in two varsity sports, back to back? Where else is that happening at a school the size of Bedford?<br /><br />WHy don't City Officials speak out about the schools? Is it their place to run the schools? NO!!<br /><br />They need to focus on their respective communities - all four of which have issues at least as big as the schools, if not bigger.<br /><br />It ain't about abatements. School, believe or not, win when they grant abatements, too! Something (income tax sharing) is better than nothing (a business locating in another ocmmunity.) </span></p><p class="comment-timestamp"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ff0000;">April 7, 2007 1:53 PM </span></p><div class="r"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></div><dt id="c8042819439608269690"><span style="font-size:85%;"><strong>Anonymous II said...</strong> </span><dd><p><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffff99;">anonymous makes some good points, and from what I've seen Gibbons brings a wealth of experience to his new job.<br /><br />The big issue to me is that rather than make this case to the public in an open manner, discussing this rationally with detractors, a special meeting is held at a time when those who work "normal business hours" cannot attend?? And the vote is rushed through?? BAD FORM! but typical of this school district.<br /><br />I personally don't believe that race is the issue here. I do think that having too much on Coach Heard's plate is a consideration. (Did he offer to give up Basketball if given the football head coacing job? And is there a ready replacement for B-Ball?) But as usual the board puts forth an air of "We know better than" the little people who pay taxes and send there kinds to this district in a futile attempt to get a good education.<br /><br />I personally have left the Bedford school district becasue I never felt my kids would get a quality education there. NOT BECAUSE OF RACE, but because of a LACK OF ORDER AND DISCIPLINE!<br /><br />The Administration demands nothing from unruly students, when a teacher or administrator attempts to hold kids accountable they are undermined by the double-dipping superintendent and the photo-op loving school board.<br /><br />BTW- has anyone ever tried to sit through an entire school board meeting?? The politically correct, feel good bullshit that bogs down school business drives you insane! Stretches out the meeting time to the WEE hours of the evening...let the crap occur at a school assembly, keep school board meetings for business. (And how about free speech? Let audience members speak from the floor without having questions & comments pre-screened by the School Board President.)<br /><br />As far as city officials keeping out of school business. That's an old and stale argument! City officials are not think tank policy wonks, nor are they bureaucrats tied doen by procedure, they are our elected leaders--THEY HAVE EVERY RIGHT TO SPEAK OUT! The fact that most choose not to is because they are afraid to touch the divisive hot potato that the Bedford Schools have become.<br /><br />The Schools need a culture change! And the sooner the better! </span></p><p class="comment-timestamp"><span style="color:#ffff99;"><span style="font-size:85%;">April 8, 2007 9:26 AM</span> </span></p><div class="r"></div></dd>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1169861614874500422007-01-26T20:33:00.000-05:002007-01-26T20:34:54.180-05:00Quality of life remains focus for Bedford<span id="role_document" style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:#000000;"><div><h2><span style="font-size:78%;"></span> </h2><div class="in_article_box" style="FLOAT: right"></div><div class="byline"><span style="color:#ffffff;">by Emily Canning-Dean</span></div><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bedford Times-Register Reporter</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">Bedford -- At the helm of a city in its third century, Mayor Dan Pocek thinks Bedford is heading in the right direction.</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">"We started out as an agricultural village, then became a stagecoach stop in the 1840s," Pocek explained during last Wednesday's State of the City Address. "Later we became an area for manufacturing chairs and now we are an auto dealership Mecca. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">"I hope to see us become a pharmaceutical giant with the growth of Ben Venue Laboratories," he continued. "Today they are 40 percent of our income tax revenue. They just broke ground on an expansion and plan to break ground on another expansion in the spring."</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">But one issue Pocek said he still thinks the city needs to address is the number of Bedford homeowners who have had their mortgages foreclosed. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">"Cuyahoga County leads the nation in foreclosures," Pocek said. "We have to be aggressive on these issues."</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">City Manager Bob Reid said the city has already started to crack down on foreclosed homes that are in disrepair. He said the city had two foreclosed homes torn down in 2006 and made a total of $75,000 worth of exterior repairs to 10 foreclosed homes to bring them up to code. Tax liens were added to the homes, so the city would be reimbursed at the time of a sale, he said.</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">"We took care of issues such as siding and roofs," he said. "We wanted to improve the homes that were becoming cancers to their neighborhoods."</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">Reid said the city also cracked down on juveniles who were causing problems such as playing loud music or walking in the street. He said the police department made 332 juvenile arrests and citations in 2006 compared to 233 in 2005. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">"The mayor and Council stressed that they wanted to take care of this quality of life issue," Reid said. "So we made a lot more arrests and gave a lot less warnings."</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">Quiet zones at the West Grace and West Glendale railroad crossings are another quality of life issue Reid says he hopes to see resolved in the future, but he isn't sure when they will become a reality. A quiet zone is a railroad crossing where trains do not sound their whistles. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">Reid said the city has spent $14,000 to update safety features at the crossings, but the Federal Rail Administration told city officials that they might need to invest in some extra gates before the crossings can become quiet zones. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">"The FRA is investigating now to decide if we need the gates and that is taking a while," Reid said. "We are trying to stay on top of it and told FRA officials that we want to meet with them again soon."</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">Reid said economic development is always a priority and he said he thought the city had a good year economically in 2006 and will again in 2007. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">He said work on Tinkers Creek Commerce Park, a corporate/industrial park converted from a brownfield, was completed. Taylor Chair, the city's oldest company, moved into its new facility there. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">This year Ben Venue will break ground on two expansions and construction should begin on a Wal-Mart Supercenter next month. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">"It is important that we remain aggressive in going after businesses," Reid said. "We need businesses so we don't have to put a tax burden on our residents."</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.com</span></p><p><span style="color:#ffffff;">Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110</span></p></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1169861239991048992007-01-26T20:27:00.000-05:002007-01-26T20:37:16.850-05:00Moving forward Sikh leadership board pledges end to fighting<span id="role_document" style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;color:#000000;"><div><span style="color:#ffff99;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>By Robert Nozar</b><br /></b>Bedford Sun Banner Staff Writer</span> </span><p><b><span style="color:#ffff99;">Jan. 25, 2007 </span></b></b><span style="font-family:Arial, helvetica;"></p><p><span style="color:#ffff99;">BEDFORD — All has been quiet on Tarbell Avenue for the past two months of Sundays as members of the Sikh Gurudwara have gathered to worship. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffff99;">That has not always been the case during the religious gatherings. For more than two years attendees have wondered if they would be faced with fights and arguments rather than worship. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffff99;">Now, though, at least one member of the new leadership board said he expects that everyone will be able to worship at the Gurudwara without fear of violence and confrontation. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffff99;">"We have to accept the election and the leadership chosen by the members," Gursharan Gil said. "I can only hope that the other group sees it the same way. It seems that they are accepting the new board and that is pleasing." </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffff99;">Gil was one of the founders of the Gurudwara who were faced with the reality of control slipping away from them in 2004 as a larger, more conservative group became more prominent in the community. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffff99;">Disagreements would sometimes escalate into physical confrontations as each side claimed the right to govern the Gurudwara. </span></p><p><span style="color:#ffff99;">But Judge Richard McMonagle, of the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court, ordered that an election run by neutral observers be held and in December, a new leadership board was put in place. </span></p></span><p><span style="color:#000000;"></span></p><p><span style="color:#000000;"></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><p><span style="color:#ffff99;"><br /></span><p></span></p></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1169168356608868182007-01-18T19:59:00.000-05:002008-12-10T12:24:06.909-05:00Ralph King: Something We Don't Need... Elmer Flick statue...<div align="left"><span style="color:#3366ff;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)"><u><span style="color:#445566;"> <strong><em><span style="color:#000099;">A post from King's Right Site by Bedford resident Ralph King: </span></em></strong></span></u></span></span></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#3366ff;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)"><u><span style="color:#445566;"><strong><em><span style="color:#000099;"></span></em></strong></span></u></span></span></span> </div><div align="left"><span style="color:#3366ff;"><span style="color:#000000;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)"><span style="color:#445566;"><span style="color:#000099;">visit King's Right Site at-- <a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/01/something-we-dont-need.html"><strong><em>http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/01/something-we-dont-need.html</em></strong></a></span></div><h2 class="date-header" align="left"><u><span style="color:#ffff33;">Tuesday, January 16, 2007</span></u></h2><div class="post" align="left"><a name="1723235771583672631"></a><h3 class="post-title"><a href="http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/01/something-we-dont-need.html">Something We Don't Need...</a><u> </u></h3><div class="post-header-line-1"></div><div class="post-body"><p><u><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;"><em><strong>Elmer Flick statue - Tribute to Hall of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Famer</span> may dig in on Broadway</strong></em></span><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffff66;">Thursday, January 11, 2007 </span><a href="http://www.cleveland.com/sun/bedfordsunbanner/index.ssf?/base/features-0/1168538131195200.xml&coll=3"><span style="font-size:85%;color:#ffff66;">Robert <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Nozar</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Bedford</span> Sun Banner</span></a><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;color:#000000;"></span></u><a href="http://www.bedfordohiohistory.org/"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5020834209247066306" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_urM-xCw7rZI/Ra2WHJ5M-MI/AAAAAAAAAOY/QUOOY6AV1Hw/s320/townhall.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><u><span style="color:#ffff66;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Bedford</span></span> Today is </span></u></span><a href="http://www.reference.com/browse/wiki/Elmer_Flick"><span style="color:#ffff66;">Elmer </span></a></span><span style="color:#ffff66;"><u>Flick's</u></span></span><span style="color:#ffff66;"> birthday and the proposed statue honoring the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Bedford</span> native and member of the </span><a href="http://www.baseballhalloffame.org/hofers_and_honorees/hofer_bios/Flick_Elmer.htm"><span style="color:#ffff66;">National Baseball Hall of Fame</span></a><span style="color:#ffff66;"> moved closer to reality last week.<br />If and when the statue is finally cast and sculpted, it could find a home where Columbus and Center roads run into Broadway Avenue.<br /><br />That is the location favored by Mayor Dan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Pocek</span> and City Manager Bob Reid, and they said several members of City Council prefer that spot over a site on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Bedford</span> Commons.<br /></span><a href="http://ads.advance.net/RealMedia/ads/click_lx.ads/www.cleveland.com/xml/story/F_/F_BB_BEDF/1979766572/StoryAd/CLEVELANDLIVE/HomeGard01_CL_RoS_Multi/547608.html/34353032373033373435396637323830?1979766572" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://ads.cleveland.com/RealMedia/ads/click_nx.ads/www.cleveland.com/xml/story/F_/F_BB_BEDF/@StoryAd?x"></a><br /></span><span style="color:#ffff33;">But the task of raising the $51,470 for the projectis not done. So far, enough money has been raised for a clay <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">maquette</span> from which a full-size sculpture will be modeled. Jim Wagner, the chair of the </span><a href="http://www.bedfordohiohistory.org/elmer-flick.php"><span style="color:#ffff33;">Elmer Flick Statue Committee</span></a><span style="color:#ffff33;">, said he has heard from donors who have pledged a total of $20,000 for the project. "We are working hard to find other donors, we're making many calls," he said.<br /><br />Flick played for the Philadelphia <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Phillies</span> (1898-1901), the Philadelphia Athletics (1902) and the Cleveland Naps (1902-1910).<br /><br />He was born in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Bedford</span> on Jan. 11, 1876, and died here Jan. 9, 1971. </span><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/f/flickel01.shtml"><span style="color:#ffff33;">Flick</span></a></span><span style="color:#ffff33;"> was inducted into the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., in 1963. </span></p></div></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></em> </div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#3366ff;">Wow! $51,000 dollars for something we don't need here in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Bedford</span>. The Location they are <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">proposing</span> is right at the beginning of our Downtown Historical District. Even done tastefully, It will clash with the downtown decor.</span></em><br /></div><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#3366ff;"></span></em></div><br /><div align="left"><em><span style="color:#3366ff;">We pride ourselves on <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">preserving</span> history here in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14" onclick="BLOG_clickHandler(this)">Bedford</span>, this is not something we need! We have many historic landmarks and buildings already. Cooperating with the local groups to maintain, enhance and bring awareness to the <a href="http://www.baseballhalloffame.org/hofers_and_honorees/hofer_bios/Flick_Elmer.htm"><span style="color:#ffff33;">historical assets</span></a> we have is more important than a statue. No disrespect to Mr. Flick or his family, but we have a baseball field already named after him.</span></em></div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#ffff33;">King</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1144889418617510192006-04-12T20:50:00.000-04:002006-04-12T20:50:18.996-04:00WalMart Coming to Meadowbrook<DIV>The word is that a WalMart Superstore is on its way to the now vacant section of Meadowbrook Market Square.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>Site plans will apparently be on the agenda for an upcoming planning commission meeting.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>As you may know, the western half of Meadowbrook has been an underperforming property for several years--- prompting council to prepare emminent domain steps against the developer last fall.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>Well the Meadowbrook Corporation received the message, and now a prime tennant will be sparking the re-development there very soon.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>I for one am glad to see that our work last fall has begun to pay off.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>Congratulations to George Goudreau and the City of Bedford for a job well done. I am proud to have played a role in making this happen.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>Former Councilman Ron Lisy</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><EM><FONT size=1>Breaking news....More Details to follow</FONT></EM></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1143215545825860162006-03-24T10:52:00.000-05:002006-03-24T10:52:25.906-05:00Bedford OKs gas, oil drilling <FONT face="Arial, helvetica" size=2><B> <P>By Calvin Jefferson</B> <BR>Correspondent </P><B> <P>March 23, 2006 </P></B> <P>BEDFORD — Residents could soon reap substantial benefits of oil and gas drilling, but they may pay a price in peace and quiet. </P> <P>City Council Monday approved a lease agreement with Bass Energy, Inc. of Akron to drill for oil and gas from two city properties — land at City Hall and at the city-owned landfill inside Walton Hills. </P> <P>Drilling should begin in April or May, City Law Director Ken Schuman said. Bass Energy's next step is to survey, test and prepare the land. </P> <P>Schuman said that although the first six days of drilling "are going to be extremely noisy," it will be worth that aggravation. </P> <P>"The benefits to the city are substantial and pretty significant," he said. "When all is said and done, it's not going to be a great inconvenience." </P> <P>"We're going to ask residents in the immediate area to bear with us. But after the initial drilling, the inconvenience will be very minor." </P> <P>The agreement between Bedford and Bass Energy stipulates that the city will receive, among other things, 12.5 percent of all revenues from the drilling, and reduced rates on natural gas for City Hall. </P></FONT>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1142310446226954032006-03-13T23:27:00.000-05:002006-03-13T23:27:26.266-05:00School Board grants contract extension to Motsco<FONT face=Courier>-----Original Message----- <BR>From: Bierman, Margaret <BR>Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2006 10:20 AM <BR>To: ADMINISTRATORS (DISTRICT) <BR>Subject: New Contract <BR>I'm pleased to tell you that the Bedford Board of Education has awarded a <BR>two-year contract to Marty (MOTSCO), effective August 1, 2006-July 31, 2008. This is not <BR>just good news for Marty, but also great news for us because it validates the <BR>work we do as a team, every day, to help our students achieve academically. <BR>Under Marty's leadership we've seen some great things happen, but Marty will be <BR>the first to tell you, that we achieve great things because we've got a <BR>strong team. Thanks for your part in the work we do every day on behalf of our <BR>students and their families. <BR><BR><BR>Margaret G. Bierman <BR>Communications Coordinator <BR>Bedford City School District <BR>475 Northfield Rd. <BR>Bedford, OH 44146 <BR>440-439-4520 <BR>FAX: 440-439-4850 </FONT><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1140129945215005002006-02-16T17:45:00.000-05:002006-02-16T17:45:45.223-05:00School officials seek 1-mill levy renewal on May 2 ballot <FONT size=5><STRONG> <DIV> <HR align=left width="25%" color=#000000 noShade SIZE=1> </DIV> <DIV></STRONG></FONT><FONT size=3>by Emily Canning-Dean,</FONT></DIV> <DIV><FONT size=3>Bedford Times Register<BR>Reporter<BR><BR>Bedford Ñ Voters in the Bedford City School District will have to decide in May whether or not to renew a permanent improvement levy.<BR><BR>Public Relations Coordinator Margaret Bierman said the levy was first instated in 1986, and funds from the levy are used to purchase equipment and make repairs on buildings and other school property. The levy must be renewed every five years.<BR><BR>“It’s not going to mean any additional taxes for our residents,” said Board President Joe Mestnik. “It is just a renewal.”<BR><BR>Treasurer Janet Pavlik said the levy is still considered a 1-mill levy, but residents are paying closer to .57 mills.<BR><BR>Pavlik said the levy was 1 mill when instated in 1986, but according to state law, the district can’t charge taxpayers any more for this specific levy than it did in the beginning.<BR><BR>Pavlik said the owner of a $100,000 pays approximately $57.50 a year.<BR><BR>“Because property value has gone up since then and taxpayers are paying the exact same amount, they will pay closer to .57 mills each,” Pavlik said.<BR><BR>Business Manager Jerry Zgrabik said the levy brings the district about $600,000 per year Ñ the same amount since 1986.<BR><BR>Zgrabik said the funding is needed to make necessary repairs to buildings. He said the district already has an idea what it might use the money for next year.<BR><BR>“The high school needs a new cooling tower, which is part of the air conditioning system,” Zgrabik said. “The current one is about 36 years old. The roof on the gymnasium at the high school also needs replaced.”<BR><BR>E-mail: <A href="mailto:ecanning@recordpub.net">ecanning@recordpub.net</A><BR></DIV></FONT> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial size=2 FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1140129838632977172006-02-16T17:43:00.000-05:002006-02-16T17:43:58.666-05:00Renewal levy on May ballot <DIV>From the Bedford Sun Banner </DIV> <DIV><B>Feb. 16, 2006 </B></B><FONT face="Arial, helvetica" size=2></DIV> <P>A 1-mill renewal levy for the Bedford School District will appear on the May 2 primary election ballot. </P> <P>The permanent improvement levy brings in about $620,000 a year for improvements like new roofs and boilers in the district's seven school buidlings and the administration building . </P> <P>The money can be used to renovate, furnish, improve or equip buildings and also improve school grounds, purchase new equipment. </P> <P>By law, the money cannot be used on salaries, which are paid through the district's operating budget and supported by operating levies. </P> <P>The Bedford Board of Education voted Monday night to put the renewal levy on the ballot. </P></FONT> <P></P> <P><FONT face=Arial size=2> <P><I>For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.</I> <P>© 2006 The Sun News<BR>Go to The Sun News <A href="http://www.sunnews.com/index.htm"><B><FONT color=#000080>www.sunnews.com</FONT></B></A> home page</FONT></P> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial size=2 FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1138947974412295192006-02-03T01:26:00.000-05:002006-02-03T01:26:14.413-05:00Shameless plug<DIV>If you are a cigar smoker (and aged 18 or over-- trust me they will check), be sure to check our new advertiser; Thompson Cigar!</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>(See banner ad above-- It's flashing at you now!)</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>I have purchased from them, and have always found their merchandise to be of top quality. Also they often run some great specials.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>----And now that Romito's has closed it's doors, this banner link is the closest thing we have to a Bedford smoke shop.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>Now back to our regular programming......</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial size=2 FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1138947763366839022006-02-03T01:22:00.000-05:002006-02-03T01:22:43.373-05:00No stopping traffic flow <BR> <P></P> <P><I><STRONG>Not enough cars to warrant stop sign on Washington</STRONG></I> <BR> <P><B>By Mike Lesko, </B></P> <P>Bedford Sun Banner <BR></P> <P><B>Feb. 2, 2006 </B></B><FONT face="Arial, helvetica" size=2></P> <P>BEDFORD — Motorists are no longer seeing red — red, as in stop signs, that is — on Washington Street. </P> <P>But resident Terry Svagerko is a little flushed over the removal of stop signs on the street. </P> <P>"I'm concerned about taking them all out," Svagerko said, noting that there is less than a half-mile on Washington between Columbus Road and Central Primary School. </P> <P>"Why can't we leave just one stop sign, maybe at Woodrow Avenue, to slow people down? Cars fly down that street," he said. </P> <P>Washington, which is next to Southeast Branch Library, was closed much of last year while new water lines were installed. When the street was repaved and reopened a month ago, the stop signs were removed. </P> <P>It also has been an adjustment for Bedford's Joyce Daunch. "I have to remind myself that there is no stop sign when I cross there," she said. </P> <P>City Manager Bob Reid said because the street was upgraded, town leaders consider it new. </P></FONT> <P></P> <P><FONT face=Arial size=2> <P><I>For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.</I> <P>© 2006 The Sun News<BR>Go to The Sun News <A href="http://www.sunnews.com/index.htm"><B><FONT color=#000080>www.sunnews.com</FONT></B></A> home page</P> <P></FONT> </P> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial size=2 FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1138890587701191632006-02-02T09:29:00.000-05:002006-02-03T00:36:31.926-05:00Managing increasing expenses focus of City administrationState of City offers optimistic outlooks: Expansions, ways to manage increasing expenses focus of city manager’s, mayor’s address<br /><span style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;color:#000066;"></span><strong><hr align="left" width="25%" color="#000000" size="1"></strong>by Emily Canning-Dean<br /><br />Reporter<br /><br />Bedford Ñ How does City Manager Bob Reid feel about the state of the city?<br /><br />“We’re in good shape,” he said at the Jan. 18 State of the City address.<br /><br />At the end of 2005, Reid said the city had an excess of $7 million.<br /><br />“This was not an accident,” Reid said. “We worked hard with department heads on [last year’s] budget.”<br /><br />Reid said income tax revenue increased 11 percent from 2004 to 2005.<br /><br />“About 86 percent of our income tax is from businesses,” Reid said, adding that the city received about $10 million in income tax from local businesses last year. “Of that tax, about 50 percent comes from Ben Venue Laboratories and the Bedford Automile.”<br /><br />Reid said he credits part of the city’s success in tax revenue increases to a large expansion at Ben Venue and by new dealerships built on the Automile, including a Maserati and an Aston Martin dealership.<br /><br />But even with new businesses and expansions, Reid said the city still must be careful with its budget. With state budget cuts, the city is losing about $1 million from state funding 2005. He said healthcare for city workers has also been a growing cost.<br /><br />“We pay for healthcare for 175 employees and 550 family members,” Reid said. “The cost for that has gone from $1.3 million to $2.1 million in three years.”<br /><br />Besides businesses and revenue, Reid said city officials also are interested in keeping up the quality of the city’s housing stock. He said the city has taken a new approach this year to blighted houses. One blighted house in foreclosure was determined a nuisance and was demolished. Two others were repaired by the city, and the city will be reimbursed when the houses are sold.<br /><br />“I think it’s kind of a gutsy approach to solving the problem. I think it sends a message that people can’t just walk away from a mess,” Reid said. “A house is often the most important investment a person makes and to have a blighted house next door is unacceptable.”<br /><br />Reid also highlighted the concerts, festivals and other events hosted in downtown Bedford this year.<br /><br />“These events are often a lot of work, but we want to use these to get people into Bedford and get people downtown,” Reid said.<br /><br />Besides Christmas in Bedford Falls and all of the summer events on the Commons, Reid said the city hosted a fall festival and produce markets on Saturdays in the summer.<br /><br />“We are planning to have the produce market again this summer,” Reid said. “We would like to have about 10 vendors the first and third Saturdays of each month.”<br /><br />Mayor Dan Pocek said the city has a lot to look forward to in 2006.<br /><br />He said Taylor Chair will move into its new building at Tinkers Creek Commerce Park this summer, leaving its current site ready for a group of cluster homes. He said he also looks forward to the cluster home development on St. Pius property and the construction of three Ganley dealerships on the Bedford Automile.<br /><br />But there are still goals the city would like to reach.<br /><br />“Last year I said we would like to see a restaurant downtown, and I wanted to see one come in 2005,” Pocek said. “We didn’t get a restaurant. But I believe we are closer to that goal.”<br /><br />Pocek said he wants to make Bedford a stronger city for the future.<br /><br />“Cities are unique,” Pocek said. “They have a soul. A lot of cities come and go, but Bedford has been around a long time. When I pass my seat on to my successor, I want it to be an even stronger Bedford.”<br /><br />E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net<br /><br />Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110<br /><div> </div><div> </div><div><span lang="0" family="SANSSERIF" pt style="font-family:Arial;font-size:10;">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <a href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/</a><br /></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1138890151597287422006-02-02T09:22:00.000-05:002006-02-02T09:22:31.610-05:00Honoring Bedford's own Elmer Flick<STRONG>Committee seeks funds for memorial <BR><FONT face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" color=#000066></FONT> <HR align=left width="25%" color=#000000 noShade SIZE=1> </STRONG>by Emily Canning-Dean<BR><BR>Reporter<BR><BR>Bedford: A memorial statue for baseball hall-of-famer Elmer Flick could be erected in the city by next spring. <BR><BR>“There is a committee that has formed for the project,” said Mayor Dan Pocek. “It still hasn’t been decided where the statue will be placed yet.”<BR><BR>“I think we’re leaning towards putting it in the square,” said Jim Wagner, chair of the committee. <BR><BR>Wagner went to Council a year ago requesting that a memorial be set up for Flick, who lived in Bedford his entire life. Flick played for Cleveland between 1902 and 1910.<BR><BR>“We had decided a statue would be a better idea than a memorial plaque,” Wagner said. “A plaque just makes it feel like a graveyard.”<BR><BR>Wagner said after talking to a sculptor on the west side of Cleveland, he learned a statue would cost about $50,000. <BR><BR>“We’re trying to raise money for the cost of the statue,” Wagner said. “We are trying to get information to local businesses who might want to donate and be a part of this.”<BR><BR>Wagner said the sculptor will first make a small replica of what the original statue will look like. This will cost $2,000.<BR><BR>“After the small replica is made, we might have some small 7-inch statues made out of an inexpensive material like resin and give them out as a gift to people who donate for the statue,” Wagner said.<BR><BR>Once the money is raised and the statue is started, it will take about six months to complete.<BR><BR>“We originally were hoping to have the statue finished by the end of this year’s baseball season,” he said. “Now we’re hoping to have it finished by next year’s opening day.”<BR><BR>Wagner said the committee will plan an unveiling ceremony when the statue is complete.<BR><BR>Anyone who would like to donate to the statue fund can call the Bedford Historical Society at 440-232-0796.<BR><BR>E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net<BR><BR>Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110 <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1137457913133319272006-01-16T19:31:00.000-05:002006-01-16T19:31:53.133-05:00Police say dispute at Sikh temple remained peaceful<FONT size=5><STRONG><FONT size=4>City may charge temple for police overtime if calls persist</FONT> <BR><FONT face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" color=#000066></FONT> <HR align=left width="25%" color=#000000 noShade SIZE=1> </STRONG></FONT><FONT size=3>by Emily Canning-Dean<BR><BR>Bedford Times Register Reporter<BR><BR>Bedford Ñ Police say that although previous arguments between members of the Guru Gobind Singh Sikh temple on Tarbell Avenue erupted into fighting, a dispute that occurred at the temple on New Year’s Day did not result in violence.<BR><BR>Police Chief Greg Duber said someone at the temple called police to settle a disagreement between temple members during an evening service. Although both sides traded words, he said, no fighting took place, and the service resumed after police arrived.<BR><BR>“We didn’t make any arrests,” Duber said. “We were just there to keep the peace.”<BR><BR>Police have been called to temple services several times since late 2004. During reported disturbances at the temple in 2005, members reported being struck on the head and having cameras and other items stolen from them according to police.<BR><BR>Several arrests were made during one incident in September, and one member of the temple was convicted of unauthorized use of equipment over the stolen camera, police said.<BR><BR>City Manager Bob Reid said Monday the city will start charging the temple for police overtime when police are called to keep the peace. <BR><BR>He said Council passed an ordinance a few months ago that allows the city to charge for police overtime if police are called to the same address for a public disturbance more than twice.<BR><BR>“We’ve already spent about 16 hours in overtime at the temple and the cost is roughly $700,” Reid said. “It’s just something we have to do with our tight budget. We have to watch every nickel.”<BR><BR>The ongoing dispute, police have said, began in 2004 over membership issues within the temple. <BR><BR>According to previous Bedford Times-Register article, one group of members accused the temple leadership of unfairly restricting membership and wanted to elect a new five-member executive committee to replace a group the leadership had elected. However, temple leaders said only founding members of the temple can vote to form an executive committee.<BR><BR>There are about 25 temple members in the leadership group and at least 300 in the group opposing the leadership, according to Azaad Khaira, a member of the larger group.<BR><BR>Taking it to the courts<BR><BR>In early 2005, the leadership group filed a complaint in the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court asking the court to uphold the temple’s constitution, which allows only the founding temple members to vote, said Gursharan Gill, a member of the leadership group.<BR><BR>In September, Judge Richard McMonagle called the constitution “invalid” and ruled that “all members of the temple are given the status of founding members and are eligible to vote for executive committee members.”<BR><BR>The leadership group filed an appeal of McMonagle’s ruling in September with the District 8 Court of Appeals. No hearings have been scheduled.<BR><BR>Khaira said in light of the judge’s ruling, members held an election at the temple Dec. 18 to form the new executive committee.<BR><BR>According to Khaira, the new elected officials are now carrying out their duties and have replaced the group elected by the leadership.<BR><BR>Gill disagrees. He said he does not believe the executive committee can take action until the court appeal process is finished. <BR><BR>“We will abide by the [appeal] decision, whatever it is,” he said.<BR><BR>E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net<BR><BR>Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110<BR></FONT> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial size=2 FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1137457797052769432006-01-16T19:29:00.000-05:002006-01-16T19:29:57.056-05:00New device monitors speeding drivers<DIV><FONT face="Arial, helvetica" size=2><B><EM>This device really helped curb speeding problems when deployed in problem areas. I had it placed a few times last year and it seemed to make drivers more aware of speed restrictions---</EM></B></FONT></DIV> <DIV><STRONG><EM></EM></STRONG> </DIV> <DIV><STRONG><EM>Ron Lisy</EM></STRONG></DIV> <DIV><STRONG><EM>----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</EM></STRONG></DIV> <DIV><STRONG></STRONG> </DIV> <DIV><FONT face="Arial, helvetica" size=2><B>By MIKE LESKO</B> <BR>Staff Writer <B></DIV> <P>Jan. 5, 2006 </P></B> <P>BEDFORD — It plugs into an electrical socket like an alarm clock, a coffee maker or a toaster. But its job isn't to wake people up. It is to slow them down. </P> <P>The portable box, which is about as big as a speed limit sign, registers how fast motorists are traveling here. </P> <P>"Any time we get a request to monitor traffic on a street, we can put it up and have the results in a few days," Police Chief Greg Duber said. </P> <P>The device counts the number of vehicles on a road, their speed and the time of day. When motorists spot the device, they can see the speed limit, their speed, or no numbers at all, depending on how it is set up. </P> <P>"If there is a problem with speeders on the street, we can identify the specific time periods to put our patrol cars there to use radar and issue citations," Duber said. </P> <P>"To use an officer specifically for radar or to monitor the traffic flow is a waste of resources," he said. "It's just taking an officer out of commission." </P> <P> </P> <P> <P><I>For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.</I> <P>© 2006 Sun Newspapers<BR>Go to Sun Newspapers </FONT><A href="http://www.sunnews.com/index.htm"><FONT face="Arial, helvetica" color=#000080 size=2><B>www.sunnews.com</B></FONT></A><FONT face="Arial, helvetica" size=2> home page</FONT></P> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial size=2 FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1137457636699691192006-01-16T19:27:00.000-05:002006-01-16T19:27:16.706-05:00Dept. of ED: Bedford Schools to lose $5.8mil without Walton Hills<FONT size=4><STRONG> A bigger hit projected</B> <BR></STRONG></FONT> <P></P> <P><FONT size=4><STRONG><I>State report says schools would lose $5.8 million if Walton Hills exits</I> <BR></STRONG></FONT> <P><B>By MIKE LESKO</B> <BR></B>Staff Writer <P><B>Jan. 12, 2006 </B></B><FONT face="Arial, helvetica" size=2></P> <P>BEDFORD — Bedford Schools would lose almost $2 million more than previously anticipated if Walton Hills left the district, according to a new report from the Ohio Department of Education. </P> <P>The O.D.E. projected the loss at about $5.8 million a year. A year ago, Bedford school officials estimated the potential annual loss at just under $4 million. </P> <P>"The results of the projection demonstrate even more strongly that if Walton Hills left, it would devastate the 3,800 students who attend school here every day," Superintendent Martha Motsco said. </P> <P>Motsco said the loss could not be made up "without significantly impacting our schools in a negative way." </P> <P>"It would mean drastically cutting programs and services for the students in the other three communities," she said. </P> <P>The district serves Bedford, Bedford Heights, Oakwood and Walton Hills. </P> <P>Walton Hills leaders want to see the village move to Cuyahoga Heights Local Schools. </P></FONT> <P></P> <P><FONT face=Arial size=2> <P><I>For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.</I> <P>© 2006 Sun Newspapers<BR>Go to Sun Newspapers <A href="http://www.sunnews.com/index.htm"><B><FONT color=#000080>www.sunnews.com</FONT></B></A> home page</FONT></P> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial size=2 FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1136150907710455572006-01-01T16:28:00.000-05:002006-01-01T16:28:27.713-05:00Downtown business project<DIV>The following is from a post on the "Truth in Bedford" blog posted Dec. 29th, 2005</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><EM>Recently I wrote to several businesses which I would love to see move into Downtown Bedford. There are many sore sights in Bedford as vacancies are created where strong stores once stood. Romito's, Neinal Shoes, and others are closing down and the only businesses that have invested in Downtown Bedford are hair and beauty salons, chiropractors, and small shops which open and close for months at a time.<BR><BR>There are a few stores which receive steady business and are thriving in the dieing center.<BR><BR>Residents are concerned that downtown may someday be considered blighted. At 5:00PM on weekdays downtown Bedford seems to transform into a ghost town. The tumbleweeds would roll, if they existed.<BR><BR>We need to bring in businesses that can bring more people to the area. The community is only as strong as the downtown. Every sector of the community is equally important to the others. The residential, industrial, and commercial demands should match for the best growth oppurtunities.</EM></DIV> <DIV><BR><EM>There has been a group that has formed to discuss and recruit businesses for Bedford. We mainly write letters to companies that may be interested in opening businesses in downtown Bedford or other parts. Many companies have responded and have said to be looking into it and sending representatives and surveyors to weigh their options.</EM></DIV> <DIV><EM></EM> </DIV> <DIV><EM>If you are interested in joining this group dedicated to bringing businesses to downtown bedford please comment on this blog.... Its painless. Just click on the underlined word "comment" and leave your e-mail address that I can reach you or e-mail me through my profile when you click on the underlined "truth in bedford." Your support is greatly appreciated, by myself, and others like yourself who want to see Bedford continue to strive for excellent services for it's citizens.</EM></DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV>Let me know if you are interested in taking part and I'll will get you the pertinent info.</DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial size=2 FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1134425882548856622005-12-12T17:18:00.000-05:002005-12-12T17:18:02.576-05:00Bedford Labs Initiates Nationwide Recall of Injectable Methotrexate<H1><FONT size=5>Recall -- Firm Press Release</FONT></H1><!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "disclaimer" --> <P style="COLOR: #ff0000; BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ffffff"><FONT color=#000000>FDA posts press releases and other notices of recalls and market withdrawals from the firms involved as a service to consumers, the media, and other interested parties. FDA does not endorse either the product or the company.</FONT></P><!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "Title of Firmrecall" --> <H2><FONT size=1>View Press Release online here- </FONT><A href="http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/bedford12_05.html"><FONT size=2>http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/bedford12_05.html</FONT></A></H2><!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "Contact information" --> <P><STRONG>Contact:</STRONG><BR>Marybeth C. McGuire, US Food and Drug Administration<BR>(203) 798 - 4801 </P><!-- #EndEditable --><!-- #BeginEditable "City/State/Date/Body of text" --> <P><STRONG>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</STRONG> -- Ridgefield, CT - December 8, 2005 <EM>--</EM> Bedford Laboratories, a division of Ben Venue Laboratories, Inc., Bedford, Ohio, announced that it is voluntarily recalling one lot of Methotrexate for Injection (preservative free), USP 1 gram per vial (NDC 55390-143-01), Lot# 859142, exp 09/07. Bedford Laboratories was informed by the manufacturer of the Methotrexate USP active drug substance (“ADS”) that the ADS used to manufacture Lot # 859142, contained low levels of ethylene glycol. Human use of preservative free Methotrexate formulations for intrathecal administration containing ethylene glycol is not permissible. Consumers that have received this product and have questions should contact their physicians. </P> <P>Bedford Laboratories is working with the US FDA on this recall. No serious health or safety reports have been received that are attributed to this situation. </P> <P>The prescription product was distributed throughout the United States in October and November 2005 to wholesalers and distributors, who further distribute the product to hospitals. Customers that have any vials of this one lot of Methotrexate for Injection have been instructed to discontinue distribution and use of this lot immediately and contact Bedford Laboratories Customer Service Department (1-800-562-4797) for a returned goods authorization. Consumers that have questions regarding this recall should also contact the Bedford Customer Service Department at 1-800-562-4797, between the hours of 8 a.m - 5 p.m (EST). </P> <P>Bedford Laboratories supplies the US and International markets with multisource and specialty injectable products. Headquartered in Bedford, OH, Bedford Laboratories is a division of Ben Venue Laboratories, Inc., a subsidiary of Boehringer Ingelheim Corporation, based in Ridgefield, CT, and a member of the Boehringer Ingelheim group of companies. </P> <P align=center>#### </P> <P align=center> </P> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV> </DIV> <DIV><FONT lang=0 face=Arial FAMILY="SANSSERIF" PTSIZE="10">-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<BR>Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <A href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</A><BR></FONT></DIV>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1133544448898786562005-12-02T12:27:00.000-05:002005-12-02T12:49:00.790-05:00The Choking Game<em></em><br /><em>Thank you to Colerain Township Clerk Heather Harlow and Police Chief Steve Sarver for forwarding this information.</em><br /><br />Date: 12/01/2005<br /><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">Ohio Early Warning Alert</span></strong><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>Ohio Resource Network for Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities</strong></span><br /><br /><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">The Choking Game</span></strong><br /> <br />The "choking game" is a game played by teenagers, typically between the ages of 9 and 15, to create a rush or high without using drugs. These teens attempt to temporarily cut off the oxygen supply until they pass out. <br /><br />Recent news reports suggest that though this game is not new, it has become more of a problem in recent weeks as teens in Ohio, Idaho, California, and North Carolina have died playing this game. It is difficult to determine the extent to which students are participating or the rate of death as it can easily be mislabeled as a suicide. The game, though nor always deadly, is particularly risky when the child tries to create the high when they are alone. It is estimated that 400-500 children die yearly from this risk behavior in the US. This figure does not include those participants injured or not injured<br /><br />Street names include: space monkey, blackout, funky chicken, something dreaming game, flat liner, tingling, and suffocation roulette.<br /><br />Signs that a child might be participating in the behavior: complaints of frequent headaches, marks on the neck of pinpoint blood marks on the neck, bloodshot eyes, the onset of aggressive behavior or aggravation, finding ropes, belts, or other objects with odd knots tied, and activity behind closed doors.<br /><br />The American Psychological Association states that many times parents can offset dangerous risk taking behavior by simply being there and knowing what is going on in your teen's life. The APA recommends:<br /><br />· Have a solid relationship with your teen and discuss issues that he faces.<br />· Be able to speak frankly with your teen about dangerous behaviors.<br />· Establish a pattern of chaperoning parties and asking where your teen is and with whom he is spending time.<br /><br />Short Term Effect:<br />Choking can produce a drunken, light-headed "feeling" that is typically short-lived. Choking can also depress your heart rate, disturb your heart rhythm, and sap your body of oxygen. At the extreme, choking can result in sudden death due to lack of oxygen to the brain. Teens are killing brain cells every time they play this "game". They may also experience nausea, loss of appetite, coughing fits, and disorientation and loss of coordination, making it hard to walk or even stand for about 15 minutes after this dangerous risk behavior.<br />Long Term Effect: <br />This behavior can result in permanent brain damage and death.<br />Sources include reports from: <a href="http://kidshealth.org">http://kidshealth.org</a>, <a href="http://www.cdsnews.com">www.cdsnews.com</a>, <a href="http://www.wral.com">www.wral.com</a>, <a href="http://www.cnn.com">www.cnn.com</a>, <a href="http://www.wkrc.com">www.wkrc.com</a>, <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com">www.msnbc.msn.com</a>, <a href="http://lundiseases.about.com">http://lundiseases.about.com</a>, <a href="http://www.parentnewsalert.com">www.parentnewsalert.com</a>, and <a href="http://www.drphil.com">www.drphil.com</a>.<br />For additional information on the above alert contact: The Ohio Resource Network for Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities, P.O. Box 210109, 2624 Clifton Ave Cincinnati, Ohio 45221-0109 Phone # 1-800-788-7254 (opt#2). <br />Note: We would like to know what you were able to do by way of disseminating this alert information. Please reply with short descriptions of the dissemination (bullet format would be fine) or interesting stories related to this alert.<br /><br />To participate in this OEWN initiative, visit <a href="http://www.ebasedprevention.org">www.ebasedprevention.org</a> and fill out the OEWN registration form (listserv). Anyone in Ohio can report an issue to the Ohio Early Warning Network by calling the toll-free non-emergency InfoLine at 1-866-OhioEWN.<br /><br />This alert is brought to you by the Ohio Department of Education, Safe and Drug Free Schools Program; the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addictions Services, Division of Prevention Services; the Ohio National Guard and the Ohio Resource Network for Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities<br />The information appearing on this alert is presented for educational purposes only. While the information published on this site is believed to be accurate, it is not intended to substitute for your own informational gathering or professional medical advice.<br /><br />----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- <a href="http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/">http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15053839.post-1133479373479246912005-12-01T18:21:00.000-05:002005-12-01T18:22:56.893-05:00Square lights up the seasonDowntown transforms into Bedford Falls for a 'Wonderful' time<br /><br />By MIKE LESKO,<br />Bedford Sun Banner Staff Writer<br /><br />Dec. 1, 2005<br /><br />Horse-drawn carriage rides, ice sculptors and Santa Claus arriving on a train are some of the events that await people who visit downtown Bedford from noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 10.<br />It is part of "Christmas in Bedford Falls," a takeoff on the movie, "It's a Wonderful Life" starring Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed. The film took place in the fictitious town of Bedford Falls.<br />"It is part of the hometown atmosphere of Bedford," Mayor Dan Pocek said. "It is one of the unique qualities that this city has over others."<br />Santa Claus will arrive at noon on a decorated train caboose before heading to Walgreens, 647 Broadway Ave., to greet children. Free photos with Santa will be taken from 1-4 p.m.<br />Some stores will offer free hot chocolate, candy, cookies, popcorn and gift certificates.<br />"We hope to bring more people back into Bedford," said Mike Guyer, president of the Bedford Chamber of Commerce, which is sponsoring the event.<br />Ice sculptors from Olmsted Ice Co. will carve Frosty the Snowman out of 20 blocks of ice, each weighing 150 pounds, at the city's municipal parking lot next to Romito's Smoke Shop, 703 Broadway Ave.<br />For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.<br />© 2005 Sun NewspapersGo to Sun Newspapers <a title="http://www.sunnews.com/index.htm" href="http://www.sunnews.com/index.htm">www.sunnews.com</a> home pageUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0