Bedford Ohio Blog

2012-01-31T13:23:00.001-05:00

Plans for the Depot

2007-04-14T06:47:00.000-04:00

Depot plans still unclear

March 22, 2007

by Emily Canning-Dean

Reporter

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.

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.

The building should not be confused with the 1882 railroad depot, which still exists on the west side of the Commons.

Some ideas were proposed over what to do with the space, but nothing was decided.

"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."

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.

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.

"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."

Opinions vary among city officials.

Ward 6 Councilor Don Saunders said he doesn't see a need to construct anything on the site.

"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."

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.

"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."

Bedford Historical Society Director Janet Caldwell said the historical society has no immediate plans to set up a historical marker.

"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."

Reid said he will consult Council members about their wishes for the site within the next few months.

=============================

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

I would like to ask the question of "what you, the reader, would like to see the land be used for?"

Gibbons Hire ignites controversy

2007-04-08T10:36:00.000-04:00

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.

Click Here for King's Right Site- http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/04/will-bedford-school-district-bypass.html

Will Bedford School District bypass "2006 Coach of the Year" because of color?

Bedford City School District, is currently conducting a search for the Head Coaching position of the varsity football team. Current coach Paul Staats, who received mixed reviews from players and parents, will be replaced for the upcoming season.

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.

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 2006 "Coach of the Year" by the State of Ohio.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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 $2 quotes and excuses typical of educators, our district and students continue to falter.

With contract negotiations for teachers coming up, be ready for the hypocrisy - I can't wait to be told how wonderful our teachers are so they can justify a raise to be paid for on our backs, yet they ignore parental input and pass over one of the best we have!

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.

In usual Bedford School Board fashion, these covert proceedings will end with a "special meeting" today at 4:00pm.

The following is a letter from an involved parent - (edited for length)

Wednesday, April 04, 2007

Via Electronic Mail

Bedford Board of Education Members
Debora J. Kozak, President
Barbara A. Patterson, Vice President (Via Facsimile)
Andrew C. M. Mizsak, M.A.P.
Tim Tench
Joseph V. Mestnik

Dear Elected School Board Members:

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.

Why is this happening under the radar?

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.....

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.

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? (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.)

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.

Secondly, is there any truth to this gentleman allegedly being walked off the field or escorted out of the building by the police?

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."

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.

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.

…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.

Why??? Don't student voices matter? Or is it just the voices of the students of color that don't matter?

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

Respectfully, a written response to my concerns is requested from all addressed parties.

Thank you,

Mrs. Michael Robinson (Venezuela)

*** Bedford School Board Member replies will be posted as they come in***
To contact the Bedford Board of Education call (440)439-1500

Jill said...

Wow - what a frustrating situation for the community! Thanks for blogging about this, with this level of specificity from a townsperson.

-but don't think I've forgotten your mystery post, person who calls himself King! :)

April 5, 2007 11:11 AM

Ben said...

maybe they are trying to hire the person they feel is the best football coach regardless of race

April 6, 2007 12:36 AM

King said...

Yes Jill it is frustrating! Our schools, being the gateway to the community are dragging us down.

Elected city officials from cities served by our district, refuse to publicly speak out about our failing schools.

In private many have voiced their dismay and disgust over the lack of improvement and excess of excuses.

The reason they keep quite is, they allow the schools to hold them hostage over tax abatements.

If the city officials speak out, then they will have a difficult time having the school approve any tax abatements.

Ben -

If this was a case of hiring the best candidate, I would be strongly supporting the schools. But it is not.

I would be just as upset if the schools were to hire a "black" coach just because of the color of his skin.

Coach Heard has been a successful teacher and coach (asst coach for football)in several sports and has won state championships.

*** I found out last night, the board hired former St. Ed's coach, John Gibbons, to be our new football coach.***

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.

You can be sure, this is not over!

Jill the post you refer to was not a phantom post. I removed it because I learned it was inaccurate.

KING

April 6, 2007 5:25 AM

King said...

oops, forgot to add this.

It should be noted, ALL our school board members are democrats. Two (2) are on the central committee for the Cuyahoga dems.

As this incident screams racism, please explain how the so called "Defenders of Civil Rights" democrats would do something like this?

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?

It appears to be the latter!

KING

April 6, 2007 5:32 AM

Anonymous said...

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.

But, here's a thought...

...this isn't about color, it's about qualifications and availability.

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?

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.

Which sport gets the short end of the coaching stick?

What happens if the football team makes the playoffs? How do you effectively start basketball practice?

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.

I think that puts a coach in a very difficult position.

I say be the head coach in one sport, and excel at it, which Coach Heard does with basketball.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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?

WHy don't City Officials speak out about the schools? Is it their place to run the schools? NO!!

They need to focus on their respective communities - all four of which have issues at least as big as the schools, if not bigger.

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.)

April 7, 2007 1:53 PM

Anonymous II said...

anonymous makes some good points, and from what I've seen Gibbons brings a wealth of experience to his new job.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.)

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.

The Schools need a culture change! And the sooner the better!

April 8, 2007 9:26 AM

Quality of life remains focus for Bedford

2007-01-26T20:33:00.000-05:00

by Emily Canning-Dean

Bedford Times-Register Reporter

Bedford -- At the helm of a city in its third century, Mayor Dan Pocek thinks Bedford is heading in the right direction.

"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.

"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."

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.

"Cuyahoga County leads the nation in foreclosures," Pocek said. "We have to be aggressive on these issues."

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.

"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."

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.

"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."

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.

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.

"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."

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.

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.

This year Ben Venue will break ground on two expansions and construction should begin on a Wal-Mart Supercenter next month.

"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."

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.com

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110

Moving forward Sikh leadership board pledges end to fighting

2007-01-26T20:27:00.000-05:00

By Robert Nozar
Bedford Sun Banner Staff Writer

Jan. 25, 2007

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.

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.

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.

"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."

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.

Disagreements would sometimes escalate into physical confrontations as each side claimed the right to govern the Gurudwara.

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.

Um, yeah, we do need it.

2007-01-20T22:16:00.000-05:00

Here's the thing about the whole Elmer Flick statue, private funds are being raised to pay for it, and how many communities in the United States can boast that they are hometown to a baseball hall of famer. This community is a community of greatness, and we need to honor those who have represented our town proudly, and who have done great things.

I understand the previous blogger's thoughts that yes, we have a field named after him...incredibly appropriate, but that field is not in plain view of the potential thousands of people who could pass the proposed statue daily if it is placed in the desired location of the Mayor, Council, and Administration. Moreover, it is another one of those things that could be a tourist draw to Bedford, and potential tourism could bring additional potential revenue to this community. And, yes, not to mention, that would be a lovely attraction on the northern end of Downtown Bedford that could lead into people working further south to Veterans Park, the Commons, the historic buildings and homes, and, ahh, yes, Viaduct Park.

So, there must be some logic into why our City Leaders would want to place the proposed statue in their desired location, and to also maintain the solemnity of the Commons.

Just my two cents.

Ralph King: Something We Don't Need... Elmer Flick statue...

2007-01-18T19:59:00.000-05:00

A post from King's Right Site by Bedford resident Ralph King:

visit King's Right Site at-- http://kingsrightsite.blogspot.com/2007/01/something-we-dont-need.html

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

Something We Don't Need...

Elmer Flick statue - Tribute to Hall of Famer may dig in on Broadway
Thursday, January 11, 2007 Robert Nozar Bedford Sun Banner

Bedford Today is Elmer Flick's birthday and the proposed statue honoring the Bedford native and member of the National Baseball Hall of Fame moved closer to reality last week.
If and when the statue is finally cast and sculpted, it could find a home where Columbus and Center roads run into Broadway Avenue.

That is the location favored by Mayor Dan Pocek and City Manager Bob Reid, and they said several members of City Council prefer that spot over a site on Bedford Commons.

But the task of raising the $51,470 for the projectis not done. So far, enough money has been raised for a clay maquette from which a full-size sculpture will be modeled. Jim Wagner, the chair of the Elmer Flick Statue Committee, 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.

Flick played for the Philadelphia Phillies (1898-1901), the Philadelphia Athletics (1902) and the Cleveland Naps (1902-1910).

He was born in Bedford on Jan. 11, 1876, and died here Jan. 9, 1971. Flick was inducted into the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., in 1963.

Wow! $51,000 dollars for something we don't need here in Bedford. The Location they are proposing is right at the beginning of our Downtown Historical District. Even done tastefully, It will clash with the downtown decor.

We pride ourselves on preserving history here in Bedford, 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 historical assets 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.

King

WalMart Coming to Meadowbrook

2006-04-12T20:50:00.000-04:00

The word is that a WalMart Superstore is on its way to the now vacant section of Meadowbrook Market Square.

Site plans will apparently be on the agenda for an upcoming planning commission meeting.

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.

Well the Meadowbrook Corporation received the message, and now a prime tennant will be sparking the re-development there very soon.

I for one am glad to see that our work last fall has begun to pay off.

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.

Former Councilman Ron Lisy

Breaking news....More Details to follow

Bedford OKs gas, oil drilling

2006-03-24T10:52:00.000-05:00

By Calvin Jefferson
Correspondent

March 23, 2006

BEDFORD — Residents could soon reap substantial benefits of oil and gas drilling, but they may pay a price in peace and quiet.

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.

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.

Schuman said that although the first six days of drilling "are going to be extremely noisy," it will be worth that aggravation.

"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."

"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."

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.

School Board grants contract extension to Motsco

2006-03-13T23:27:00.000-05:00

-----Original Message-----
From: Bierman, Margaret
Sent: Thursday, March 09, 2006 10:20 AM
To: ADMINISTRATORS (DISTRICT)
Subject: New Contract
I'm pleased to tell you that the Bedford Board of Education has awarded a
two-year contract to Marty (MOTSCO), effective August 1, 2006-July 31, 2008. This is not
just good news for Marty, but also great news for us because it validates the
work we do as a team, every day, to help our students achieve academically.
Under Marty's leadership we've seen some great things happen, but Marty will be
the first to tell you, that we achieve great things because we've got a
strong team. Thanks for your part in the work we do every day on behalf of our
students and their families.

Margaret G. Bierman
Communications Coordinator
Bedford City School District
475 Northfield Rd.
Bedford, OH 44146
440-439-4520
FAX: 440-439-4850

School officials seek 1-mill levy renewal on May 2 ballot

2006-02-16T17:45:00.000-05:00

by Emily Canning-Dean,

Bedford Times Register
Reporter

Bedford Ñ Voters in the Bedford City School District will have to decide in May whether or not to renew a permanent improvement levy.

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.

“It’s not going to mean any additional taxes for our residents,” said Board President Joe Mestnik. “It is just a renewal.”

Treasurer Janet Pavlik said the levy is still considered a 1-mill levy, but residents are paying closer to .57 mills.

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.

Pavlik said the owner of a $100,000 pays approximately $57.50 a year.

“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.

Business Manager Jerry Zgrabik said the levy brings the district about $600,000 per year Ñ the same amount since 1986.

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.

“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.”

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Renewal levy on May ballot

2006-02-16T17:43:00.000-05:00

From the Bedford Sun Banner

Feb. 16, 2006

A 1-mill renewal levy for the Bedford School District will appear on the May 2 primary election ballot.

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 .

The money can be used to renovate, furnish, improve or equip buildings and also improve school grounds, purchase new equipment.

By law, the money cannot be used on salaries, which are paid through the district's operating budget and supported by operating levies.

The Bedford Board of Education voted Monday night to put the renewal levy on the ballot.

For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Shameless plug

2006-02-03T01:26:00.000-05:00

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!

(See banner ad above-- It's flashing at you now!)

I have purchased from them, and have always found their merchandise to be of top quality. Also they often run some great specials.

----And now that Romito's has closed it's doors, this banner link is the closest thing we have to a Bedford smoke shop.

Now back to our regular programming......

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

No stopping traffic flow

2006-02-03T01:22:00.000-05:00

Not enough cars to warrant stop sign on Washington

By Mike Lesko,

Bedford Sun Banner

Feb. 2, 2006

BEDFORD — Motorists are no longer seeing red — red, as in stop signs, that is — on Washington Street.

But resident Terry Svagerko is a little flushed over the removal of stop signs on the street.

"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.

"Why can't we leave just one stop sign, maybe at Woodrow Avenue, to slow people down? Cars fly down that street," he said.

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.

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.

City Manager Bob Reid said because the street was upgraded, town leaders consider it new.

For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Managing increasing expenses focus of City administration

2006-02-02T09:29:00.000-05:00

State of City offers optimistic outlooks: Expansions, ways to manage increasing expenses focus of city manager’s, mayor’s address

by Emily Canning-Dean

Reporter

Bedford Ñ How does City Manager Bob Reid feel about the state of the city?

“We’re in good shape,” he said at the Jan. 18 State of the City address.

At the end of 2005, Reid said the city had an excess of $7 million.

“This was not an accident,” Reid said. “We worked hard with department heads on [last year’s] budget.”

Reid said income tax revenue increased 11 percent from 2004 to 2005.

“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.”

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.

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.

“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.”

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.

“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.”

Reid also highlighted the concerts, festivals and other events hosted in downtown Bedford this year.

“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.

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.

“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.”

Mayor Dan Pocek said the city has a lot to look forward to in 2006.

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.

But there are still goals the city would like to reach.

“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.”

Pocek said he wants to make Bedford a stronger city for the future.

“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.”

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/

Honoring Bedford's own Elmer Flick

2006-02-02T09:22:00.000-05:00

Committee seeks funds for memorial

by Emily Canning-Dean

Reporter

Bedford: A memorial statue for baseball hall-of-famer Elmer Flick could be erected in the city by next spring.

“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.”

“I think we’re leaning towards putting it in the square,” said Jim Wagner, chair of the committee.

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.

“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.”

Wagner said after talking to a sculptor on the west side of Cleveland, he learned a statue would cost about $50,000.

“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.”

Wagner said the sculptor will first make a small replica of what the original statue will look like. This will cost $2,000.

“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.

Once the money is raised and the statue is started, it will take about six months to complete.

“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.”

Wagner said the committee will plan an unveiling ceremony when the statue is complete.

Anyone who would like to donate to the statue fund can call the Bedford Historical Society at 440-232-0796.

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110

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Police say dispute at Sikh temple remained peaceful

2006-01-16T19:31:00.000-05:00

City may charge temple for police overtime if calls persist

by Emily Canning-Dean

Bedford Times Register Reporter

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.

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.

“We didn’t make any arrests,” Duber said. “We were just there to keep the peace.”

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.

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.

City Manager Bob Reid said Monday the city will start charging the temple for police overtime when police are called to keep the peace.

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.

“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.”

The ongoing dispute, police have said, began in 2004 over membership issues within the temple.

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.

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.

Taking it to the courts

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.

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.”

The leadership group filed an appeal of McMonagle’s ruling in September with the District 8 Court of Appeals. No hearings have been scheduled.

Khaira said in light of the judge’s ruling, members held an election at the temple Dec. 18 to form the new executive committee.

According to Khaira, the new elected officials are now carrying out their duties and have replaced the group elected by the leadership.

Gill disagrees. He said he does not believe the executive committee can take action until the court appeal process is finished.

“We will abide by the [appeal] decision, whatever it is,” he said.

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

New device monitors speeding drivers

2006-01-16T19:29:00.000-05:00

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---

Ron Lisy

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By MIKE LESKO
Staff Writer

Jan. 5, 2006

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.

The portable box, which is about as big as a speed limit sign, registers how fast motorists are traveling here.

"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.

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.

"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.

"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."

For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Dept. of ED: Bedford Schools to lose $5.8mil without Walton Hills

2006-01-16T19:27:00.000-05:00

A bigger hit projected

State report says schools would lose $5.8 million if Walton Hills exits

By MIKE LESKO
Staff Writer

Jan. 12, 2006

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.

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.

"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.

Motsco said the loss could not be made up "without significantly impacting our schools in a negative way."

"It would mean drastically cutting programs and services for the students in the other three communities," she said.

The district serves Bedford, Bedford Heights, Oakwood and Walton Hills.

Walton Hills leaders want to see the village move to Cuyahoga Heights Local Schools.

For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Downtown business project

2006-01-01T16:28:00.000-05:00

The following is from a post on the "Truth in Bedford" blog posted Dec. 29th, 2005

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.

There are a few stores which receive steady business and are thriving in the dieing center.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Let me know if you are interested in taking part and I'll will get you the pertinent info.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Bedford Labs Initiates Nationwide Recall of Injectable Methotrexate

2005-12-12T17:18:00.000-05:00

Recall -- Firm Press Release

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.

View Press Release online here- http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/bedford12_05.html

Contact:
Marybeth C. McGuire, US Food and Drug Administration
(203) 798 - 4801

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- Ridgefield, CT - December 8, 2005 -- 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.

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.

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).

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.

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The Choking Game

2005-12-02T12:27:00.000-05:00

Thank you to Colerain Township Clerk Heather Harlow and Police Chief Steve Sarver for forwarding this information.

Date: 12/01/2005

Ohio Early Warning Alert

Ohio Resource Network for Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities

The Choking Game

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.

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

Street names include: space monkey, blackout, funky chicken, something dreaming game, flat liner, tingling, and suffocation roulette.

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.

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:

· Have a solid relationship with your teen and discuss issues that he faces.
· Be able to speak frankly with your teen about dangerous behaviors.
· Establish a pattern of chaperoning parties and asking where your teen is and with whom he is spending time.

Short Term Effect:
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.
Long Term Effect:
This behavior can result in permanent brain damage and death.
Sources include reports from: http://kidshealth.org, www.cdsnews.com, www.wral.com, www.cnn.com, www.wkrc.com, www.msnbc.msn.com, http://lundiseases.about.com, www.parentnewsalert.com, and www.drphil.com.
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).
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.

To participate in this OEWN initiative, visit www.ebasedprevention.org 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.

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
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.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Square lights up the season

2005-12-01T18:21:00.000-05:00

Downtown transforms into Bedford Falls for a 'Wonderful' time

By MIKE LESKO,
Bedford Sun Banner Staff Writer

Dec. 1, 2005

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.
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.
"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."
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.
Some stores will offer free hot chocolate, candy, cookies, popcorn and gift certificates.
"We hope to bring more people back into Bedford," said Mike Guyer, president of the Bedford Chamber of Commerce, which is sponsoring the event.
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.
For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.
© 2005 Sun NewspapersGo to Sun Newspapers www.sunnews.com home page

Batten absent since election

2005-12-01T18:10:00.000-05:00

by Mike Lesko,
Staff Writer: Bedford Sun Banner
Thursday December 1, 2005
http://www.sunnews.com

BEDFORD- Warner Batten is a no show.

Batten the newly elected Bedford Ward 1 councilman, has not attended any of City Council's three meetings since election day in which the city budget for the upcoming year was discussed.

His fellow council members are not pleased.

"I'm concerned that he hasn't been here," Vice Mayor Greg Pozar said.

"Warner is doing himself a disservice," Councilman Don Saunders said. "This is a critical part of the job. You need to be involved in these kind of discussions."

Batten, who defeated incumbent Ron Lisy in last month's general election, cannot vote because he will not be sworn into office until January."

Still, city leaders always invite newly elected council members to the weekly budget sessions in November and December.

Mayor Dan Pocek sent Batten a letter that read, in part: "It is customary to invite the newly elected officials to attend all work sessions of council prior to their being sworn in."

Batten said, "I got the letter saying I couldn't take part (in the decision making), but there is no particular reason (for not attending)."

Saunders said Batten said that if he couldn't have any input he wasn't coming.

"Granted, Warner can't vote, but he still is an integral part of it," Saunders said. "You can make comments. He may see points that were of a similar nature from the past where he could add insight. Everybody's opinion counts."

Pocek said he would ask Batten his opinion if he showed up, addind "It's simple protocol."

"Warner should know that," Councilwoman Marilyn Zolata added. "He saw a lot of people come on council in 20 years."

Batted, a 20-year council veteran, lost his seat four years ago to Lisy. Leading up to the last election, council members endorsed Lisy.

"Ron (Lisy) worked hard," Pocek said. "He has been a good member of council."

Batten said the lack of an endorsement by council did not affect his decision to stay away.

"That's the first time I've heard that," Batten said.

Told that other council members were annoyed by his absence, Batten said, "I can't help what they think."

"I might attend," Batten said Sunday night. "I don't know."

However, when Monday night rolled around, Batten was absent for the third consecutive week.

Contact Mile Lesko at Lesko_Mike@yahoo.com or call (216)986-5869

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/

Christmas Art Fest December 11th

2005-11-28T23:41:00.001-05:00

On Sunday December 11th there will be a Christmas Art Fest, 101 Northfield Rd. in Bedford OH.

The event takes place 1-7PM

Featured artists include:

Toni Tomazic
Becky Elliott
Linda Shaw
Silvia Heller
Jovian Designs
The Loving Spirit Collection of Jewelry

Features Items Include:

Hand Painted Furniture
Custom Designed Greeting Cards
Illustrated Children Books sold by Illustrated
Designer baby bibs and blankets
Designer knitted apparel
Quality Art, original paintings and prints

Christmas Art Fest, 101 Northfield Rd. in Bedford OH.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com/

Christmas in Bedford Falls Festival Dec. 10th.

2005-11-28T23:41:00.000-05:00

The annual Christmas in Bedford Falls festival will take place in Downtown Bedford, 12 Noon to 4PM.

The festival will feature a holiday raffle that may enter by shopping at any participating Bedford business and spending $10 or more between Nov. 25th and December 10th.

Participating businesses include:
Arabica 720 Broadway
Carol James Florist 451 Broadway
Cyber Pete's Internet Café 665 Broadway
Beach Club Tanning 622 Broadway
Bedford Floral 691 Broadway
Bedford Historical Society 30 South Park
Bedford Music 659 Broadway
Dairy Queen 401 Broadway
LaGra Jewelers 674 Broadway
Star Glass & Fine Art 704 Broadway

Ice Sculpting
Sponsored by UHHS Bedford Medical Center.
Olmsted Ice Co. Will carve 3000 pounds of ice into a Christmas design (weather permitting)

Other activities include:

12 Noon Santa Claus arrives by train at Bedford Falls! Greet Santa at the HistoricTrain Depot on the Commons & tour an old fashioned caboose.

12Noon - 4PM Horse-drawn wagon rides boarding at Doty & Miller, 600 Broadway & Arabica, 720 Broadway

12Noon-5PM Christmas Art & Music at Star Glass & Fine Art, 704 Broadway. Featuring Dan Morgan, pianist and works of art by Thomas Kinkaid.

12Noon-5PM Bedford Schools Student Art Display & Reception, Doty & Miller, 600 Broadway

12 Noon-4PM Polar Express read by Jan Deems at Doty & Miller, 600 Broadway. Refreshments served.

Mail your letter to Santa at Doty & Miller, 600 Broadway (former post office), in a special mailbox with express service to the North Pole!

12Noon- 4PM Annual Christmas Open House at Bedford Historical Society Museum, South Park on the Commons. Christmas story told by Lynn Jones. Refreshments served.

1PM- 4PM Visit Santa at Walgreens, 647 Broadway. Free photo with Santa.

1PM-4PM Annual Open House at The Purr-fect Place, 715 Broadway. Open for Holiday Shopping.

12Noon-4PM Visit the Burning River N-Trak Train display.

Music & Entertainment

Location: Veterans Park

1PM t0 4PM Bedford High School Madrigal Singers
Bedford Middle School Heskett Hand Bell Choir
Lutheran Church of the Master
First Baptist Church of Bedford

Plus Caroling along Broadway

FACE PAINTING 12 Noon-4PM at

Star Glass & Fine Art 704 Broadway
Beach Club Tanning 662 Broadway
Main Street Donuts & Café 658 Broadway

Christmas in Bedford Falls is sponsored by the Bedford Chamber of Commerce.

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Announcements from the City of Bedford

2005-11-22T15:15:00.000-05:00

Odds & Ends from City Hall...

Leaf Collection: has begun. Rake leaves to the tree lawn. DO NOT PUT LEAVES IN THE STREET (You will be issued a citation for littering.Per City Ordinance 532.04) Raking leaves into the street blocks catch basins and storm sewers.

The CIty will run 4 machines and make continuous rounds until leaves are collected.

Please try to avoid parking on public streets during leaf collection.

Xmas tree collection: The tree chipper will make the rounds until Xmas trees are collected. Please place tree on tree lawn and make sure bags and ornaments have been removed before pickup.

Snow Removal: When snow exceeds 2 inches, a parking ban is put into effect. No parking on any city street. (Ord 5641-86) Making is easier for plows to clear the streets.

Snow removal from driveways & sidewalks are the property owner's responsibility. All snow from driveways or sidewalks is to remain on your property.

Rockside Road bridge: Construction will commence in the Fall of 2005 and will be completed in Summer 2006. Traffic will be maintained at all times, but expect inconveniences and possible delays.

Christmas in Bedford Falls: Scheduled for Saturday Dec. 10th 12 noon to 4PM at Bedford Commons Square.

Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony & Historic Marker Dedication: Wednesday Nov. 23rd at 6PM. Santa Claus will stop by, and refreshemnts will be sold by the Bedford Firefighters Local 1683.

Blue Bag Recycling: Distribution of blue recycling bags to residents will start Summer 2006, as well as with the Spring/Summer Newsletter and the Good Neighbor guide.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Tree Lighting ceremony on the Square Wednesday November 23rd.

2005-11-22T14:52:00.000-05:00

The City of Bedford Holiday/ Xmas tree lighting ceremony will be tomorrow November 23rd on the Bedford Commons Square at 6PM.

Immediately preceding the lighting ceremony will be a dedication of the historical area marker for the downtown Bedford area.

For questions contact City Hall at (440) 232-1600.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Release from the Lisy for Council campaign

2005-11-09T12:41:00.000-05:00

Well folks the votes are in:

Councilman Ron Lisy 222votes 39.36%

ex-Councilman Warner Baten 342votes 60.64%

The Voters have made their decision. Unfortunately it was not the decision we hoped for.

Thank you for your help and efforts during these four years. We were able accomplish some good things. That cannot be disputed.

Sincerely,

RON

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Bedford City Council to take eminent domain steps against Meadowbrook Plaza.

2005-11-06T12:38:00.000-05:00

At the Bedford City Council Meeting on Monday November 7, 2005 the Bedford City Council will pass a resolution to further the public purpose of economic development at the underperforming Meadowbrook Plaza.

I have been a consistent critic on the conditions at Meadowbrook Plaza. An excellent opportunity for the City to gain new city revenue, and improve the appearance of the area is the re-development of Meadowbrook.

Monday night we will take the first step in making this re-development happen.

If you would like to attend the Council meeting, the session begins at 8:00 PM at City Hall. There will be an opportunity for public comment at the meeting.

Plain Dealer Special Election Section

2005-11-04T14:22:00.000-05:00

For those of you who haven't seen the print version; The Plain Dealer conducted a survey of candidates for office in all communities in Cuyahoga County and surrounding counties, including Bedford.

The survey consisted of questions that each candidate was asked to address, and their answers were printed in the special section on Sunday October 30th. (Answers that were determined to be off topic by the editors were not printed).

The entire survay is also online at http://www.cleveland.com/election

Check it out.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Ford under watch

2005-10-28T11:44:00.000-04:00

No word yet on whether local plant will close

By MIKE LESKO
Staff Writer Oct. 27, 2005

WALTON HILLS — They're holding their breath and crossing their fingers.

After Ford Motor Co. announced there will be significant layoffs and plant closings in January, the status of the Ford stamping plant in Walton Hills remains uncertain.

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I don't know what kind of good news to put out there," said Robert Ebert, a professor of economics at Baldwin-Wallace College in Berea.

"Some plants (in Ohio) will survive," he said. "Which ones, we're not sure. I'd place a bet on the one in Avon Lake. Some others will survive, too. We don't know which ones are high on the list of closers.

"It's a frightening situation," Ebert said. "The holiday season is always a tough time of the year. But I'm sure there will be a lot of careful pencil sharpening in the next few months at Ford."

Ford previously announced that its assembly plant in Lorain will close at the end of the year. Other Ford plants in Ohio include those in Brook Park, Lima and Sharonville in southern Ohio.

"Everybody (at Ford) is tight-lipped. That's frustrating," Walton Hills Councilman William Allen said. "But our plant supplies the one in Avon Lake, which is relatively stable. That's encouraging."

The Walton Hills plant used to account for about half the village's revenue. Now, it is around 15-25 percent. Ford divided the building in half about two years ago. One side is virtually vacant. Fewer than 600 employees work there today.

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Bedford Ohio Blog Homepage- http://bedfordoh.blogspot.com

Shopping plaza: a dead end

2005-10-18T11:46:00.000-04:00

Once-active Meadowbrook Market Square reduced to rubble

By MIKE LESKO
Bedford Sun Banner Staff Writer

BEDFORD — It resembles a bombed-out section of Baghdad, city Councilman Ron Lisy once said.

The western half of the Meadowbrook Market Square shopping plaza used to house a Handy Andy store, Ames Department Store, Levin Furniture and numerous others.

Today, they are gone, replaced by a 20-foot tall mound of rubble about 60 feet wide at the base, surrounded by acres of weeds.

It's an uninviting sight for southbound drivers entering Bedford on Northfield Road from Bedford Heights and Maple Heights. No stores appear to be moving in soon to that end of the plaza at the corner of Northfield and Rockside roads.

There has been a startling lack of activity there since the turn of the century. Why?

George Goudreau, head of Goudreau Management Group, which owns the property, failed to return calls to the Bedford Sun Banner.

City Manager Bob Reid said Goudreau is "a tough businessman who has a lot of common sense."

Bedford to weigh grant priorities

2005-10-02T23:13:00.001-04:00

by Emily Canning-Dean

Bedford Times-Register Reporter

Bedford and Bedford Heights residents who have ideas about how to improve their communities will have opportunities to be heard next month.

Both cities are hosting public meetings where residents and officials can discuss which projects the communities should present to Cuyahoga County when applying for thousands of dollars in Community Development Block Grants. There will be a public meeting Oct. 4 at noon at the Jimmy Dimora Community Center, 5615 Perkins Ave., for Bedford Heights residents. Dates and times for Bedford meetings have not been scheduled yet. The deadline for the grant applications is Nov. 18 at noon.

According to Michelle Oakar, public information officer for the county department of development, the county receives federal funding each year that is to be distributed to communities for improvement projects.

Oakar said communities with “target improvement areas” or areas with residents at low to moderate income levels can apply for the grant, and each community can receive up to $150,000.

Oakar said eligible improvement projects must “serve low to moderate income people,” “prevent or eliminate slum and blight” or “meet other urgent community needs.” She said typical eligible projects include streetscape improvements, street or sidewalk improvements and American Disability Association improvements to public sites.

Bedford Director of Economic Development Rebecca Corrigan said her city will host several meetings throughout October where they will take ideas from residents.

“Right now we are thinking about streetscape improvements on Northfield Road between Union Street and Forbes Road,” she said.

Corrigan said the project would include street benches, landscaping and sidewalk improvements with an estimated cost of $200,000. She said making this business district on Northfield more aesthetically pleasing would be beneficial because a lot of motorists travel through the area.

Corrigan said applicants whose projects include streetscape improvements are often successful in obtaining CDBG funding. She said both phases of the Broadway Avenue Streetscape were partially funded by CDBG money.

But Corrigan said she still wants feedback from residents.

“Maybe residents will have an idea that we like better than the Northfield Road project,” she said.

Bedford Heights Director of Economic Development Marty Divito said the city has already gotten some ideas.

“We’ve already had one suggestion for an elevator in City Hall and another for power doors at the community center,” she said, adding that both of these projects would make each building more ADA compatible.

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110
http://www.bedfordtimesregister.com/

Quartet on November ballot seeking 3 School Board seats

2005-10-02T23:13:00.000-04:00

by Emily Canning-Dean

Bedford Times Register Reporter

After Terry Sanders withdrew last week from the race for the Bedford Board of Education (See story, Page 4), four candidates are left to compete for three seats on the School Board. Those running are incumbent Debora Kozak, who was appointed to the Board when Kay Santangelo resigned, Andrew Mizsak, Daisy Roane and Tim Tench.

A main focus for all candidates will be school funding.

“If I am elected, I want to talk to many state officials and put pressure on them to find better ways to fund public schools,” Tench said.

Mizsak said he agrees that changes need to be made.

“I would be in favor of an amendment to the Ohio Constitution that would permit casino gambling, or at least video slots in order to fund our schools,” Mizsak said. “I would keep the option open for a 1 percent increase in the state sales tax ... that would specifically earmark that additional percentage for the funding of K through 12 education.”

Roane said she thinks there are alternative ways the district can bring in revenue.

“I think we need to look at renting out some of our facilities for events, such as our auditoriums. I believe in grants, and I want to work closely with the district’s grant writer,” she said.

Kozak said she believes it also is important to monitor what is going on within the district.

“I think we need to be accountable for all of the money that we spend,” she said. “There has often been talk of ‘pay to play’ for athletics, but I would hate to see that happen. I think we as the district need to come together to come up with other solutions.”

Kozak said Board members also should keep an eye on capital improvements, although she said she believes Business Manager Jerry Zgrabik is doing a good job keeping up buildings in the district.

“I think we need to look at what is best for our kids and we need to focus on safety,” she said.

Roane said she toured the buildings in the district two years ago and was impressed with their condition.

“If elected, I would like to tour the buildings again to make sure that none of them have deteriorated, and make assessments at that time,” she said.

Tench said he, too, would like to tour the buildings in the district if he were elected.

“I would also like to talk to the custodians and principals in the buildings, the people who are there every day and receive feedback from them about what needs to be done,” he said.

Mizsak said he thinks the buildings and grounds in the district are in good condition. If budget permits, Mizsak said he would like to make improvements to save on energy costs.

“I would like to replace windows in school facilities with those that are more insulated to reduce heating costs,” he said. “I also would like to see automatic flush toilets in all buildings, as well as automatic sinks and faucets in restrooms. These are not only cost-saving ideas, but they are also environmentally friendly.”

All of the Board members offered ideas on how the school district can improve state report card scores.

“I think we need to offer as much tutoring as possible, and I think we need to work with students who come into the district,” Kozak said. “I think students who move into the district should take a placement test, so we can best figure out where they need help.”

Tench said he would like the district to offer classes to parents so they can help their children with school.

“What happens is you have children who don’t know how to learn because they grow up in an environment not knowing how to learn,” he said. “We can help the students by helping their parents.”

Roane said she would like to have a committee formed to determine why some students in the district are having trouble learning.

“I think we need to constantly monitor students and individually diagnose areas where they need help,” she said.

Mizsak said he thinks there are a few steps the district can take to improve state test scores.

“Spend a part of every school day working on problem solving and analytical skills with students,” he said. “Use students in the upper grades to mentor and tutor students. Also, inform parents and guardians better what is on the test and train them in how to prepare their child for the tests.”

Election day is Nov. 8.

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110
http://www.bedfordtimesregister.com/

Homes to sit on Taylor Chair site

2005-10-02T23:12:00.000-04:00

By MIKE LESKO,

Bedford Sun-Banner
Staff Writer

Sept. 29, 2005

BEDFORD - A 53-unit housing project with a scenic view of the Bedford Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks will become a reality.

The project will be on Taylor and Willis streets at the current site of the Taylor Chair Co., which will relocate to Egbert Road in Bedford.

"The setting is the best thing about the entire project," said Rob Namy, director of development for the Cleveland-based Rysar Co.

"It is nestled in a corner of the Metroparks with paths that reach out to the waterfalls and to Viaduct Park," he said. "It will be close to downtown Bedford and all the shops."

Namy and architect Richard Siegfried of R.S.A. Architects in Chagrin Falls made a presentation to Bedford City Council.

The plan must be OK'd by the city's planning commission and council, but city leaders do not foresee any hurdles.

He said as many silver maple, red oak and pine trees on the east side of the property as possible will not be touched.

Rysar paid about $900,000 for the property in July.

Namy said homes likely will start at about $190,000. He hopes construction will begin in late 2006 with the first homes finished in late spring of 2007. Each one will be about 1,500-2,000 square feet.

http://www.sunnews.com/news/eastmenu.htm

Is there a TOPS in Bedford's future?

2005-10-02T17:39:00.000-04:00

This article was in Oct. 2nd's Plain Dealer. I suggest picking up a copy.

This article is very long so the conclusion will be in the comments section.

As a note we (The City of Bedford) have been in contact with TOPS corporate folks, who state they currently have no plans to close the Bedford Tops. No not the ringing endorsement we would hope for, but better than the alternative. We will stay in touch, and work with them to keep TOPS open in Bedford.

-Ron Lisy

A question of commitment
Tops says it wants to expand here, but it's closing stores

By Janet H. Cho
Plain Dealer Reporter

Sunday, October 2, 2005

Five years ago, Tops Markets LLC promised to bring a new, state-of-the-art supermarket to Cleveland’s Collinwood neighborhood – a move city leaders hailed as critical to revitalizing a once-strong business district.

The proposed 58,000-square-foot building at East 185th Street and Neff Road – nearly triple the size of the 41-year-old store there now – was to have been a model for Tops’ future groceries and the envy of its competitors. It was to have an in-store bakery, a full-service meat department, a pharmacy, more organic produce and a Chinese food carryout. And it was to have sold gasoline.

Today, after spending more than $6 million to buy and prepare the land for construction, Tops has changed its mind.

In an Aug. 26 letter to Mayor Jane Campbell’s chief of staff, Chris Ronayne, Tops’ parent company, Giant Food Stores LLC, confirmed the project was dead. After studying the project “from every possible angle, . . . we have been unable to develop a scenario that meets our financial objectives,” wrote Robert Anderson, Giant’s executive vice president of real estate and construction.

A gravel foundation that city officials hoped would support a modern grocery store now is surrounded by a chain-link fence and broken sidewalks.

Peering through the fence behind the current store’s parking lot, City Councilman Michael Polensek rued how hard he worked to get Tops a sweetheart economic incentive package of more than $2.8 million in grants, low-interest loans and tax abatements. “They baldfaced lied to us,” he said.

Polensek isn’t the only one questioning Tops’ commitment to Greater Cleveland. After years of saying it wanted to expand its market share in Northeast Ohio, the region’s No. 2 grocer has closed nine stores in the last year, cut about 850 jobs, reduced store hours and outsourced its popular in-store bakery and butcher departments.

Williamsville, N.Y.-based Tops, which now operates 47 stores in Northeast Ohio, has left a wake of empty storefronts, disappointed shoppers and disenchanted community leaders.

http://www.cleveland.com

Lisy wins Sun Banner endorsement

2005-09-29T23:39:00.000-04:00

PRESS RELEASE FROM THE RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN OF COUNCILMAN RON LISY

The Bedford Sun Banner has endorsed the re-election of Bedford Councilman Ron Lisy.

Lisy, completing his first four-year term, in challenged for re-election by former Councilman Warner Batten, whom Lisy defeated in 2001.

"His efforts to help spur redevelopment and his understanding of how to attract younger families to an aging inner-ring suburb show the makings of a committed ward councilman," stated the Sun Banner editorial. "All he needs is more time to grow into that role."

Upon learning of the Sun Banner's vote of confidence, Lisy stated, "I'm pleased to hear of their endorsement. I've worked hard to represent the people of Bedford, we've made a lot of progress, but there's still work to be done."

The election for Bedford's City Council is Tuesday, November 8th.

Autumn Harvest Day

2005-09-28T17:03:00.000-04:00

The following is the text of an ad running on Radio Disney Cleveland:

"There is something going on in the CIty of Bedford.....

[SFX- crickets night sounds--wind blowing gently]

"Something exciting...Somethingvery NEW...something...FUN!"

[SFX-stop- Music upbeat pop in]

"Bedford Ohio, home of the Auto mile the longest span of roadway featuring over 30 new car dealer...[SFX-car zooms past] invites you to join in the fall family fun at Bedford's First annual Autumn Harvest day October 1st on Bedford Commons! From 10AM and 12:30...Special thanks from the City of Bedford to all the sponsors who helped make Autumn Harvest Day possible..."

[SFX-music out-SFX-crickets night sound-wind blowing gently]

"October 1st Radio Disney is at Autumn Harvest Day in Bedford....With music, Games and tins of prizes. This is something you won't want to miss!"

This ad will on 1260AM Radio Disney, from 9/26 thru the event. (Run times are 8:13am, 9:34am, 1:53pm and 8:13pm)

submitted by Ron Lisy

Beethoven's 5th at BHS

2005-09-27T16:34:00.000-04:00

The Akron Symphony Youth Orchestra will present Beethoven's 5th at the Bedford High School Auditorium on Saturday November 5th.

Performance times are 3:30pm and 7:30pm.

Tickets are available as follows.

Main Floor $12 or (Seniors)$10

Balcony $8 or (Seniors)$7

Students or Children (Main Floor) $6 or (Balcony) $4

Proceeds will be used to fund Project STEP- Stability, Training, Employment and Progress, a charitable and nonprofit employment, training and job placement program.

For info or tickets call Joe Mestnik at 440-232-2080.

St. Peter Chanel edges Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin/ Bedford edged by Euclid

2005-09-19T08:18:00.000-04:00

Ohio High School Football - St. Peter Chanel edges Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin

BEDFORD September 17, 2005 -- In Friday's league game, the St. Peter Chanel Firebirds (Bedford, OH) football team edged the visiting Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin Lions (Chardon, OH), by a score of 21-19.

The Firebirds (2-2) will now prepare for their game against Elyria Catholic (Elyria, OH). The Panthers enter the North Coast game with a 4-0 record. In their last game, Elyria Catholic edged Edgewood (Elyria, OH), 55-12, in a non-league game.

Next up, the Lions meet the Padua Franciscan Bruins (Parma, OH) in a North Coast game, on Saturday, September 24. Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin will attempt to improve on its 0-4 season record. The Bruins enter the game with a 1-3 record after their 21-14 non-league win over Howland (Parma, OH).

Ohio High School Football - Bedford edged by Euclid

BEDFORD September 17, 2005 -- The Euclid Panthers (Euclid, OH) football edged the host Bedford Bearcats (Bedford, OH), 10-7 in Friday's non-league game.

Next up, the Panthers meet the Garfield Heights Bulldogs (Garfield Heights, OH) in a non-league game, on Friday, September 23. Euclid will attempt to improve on its 2-2 season record. The Bulldogs enter the game with a 2-2 record after their 38-7 non-league win over Lakewood (Garfield Heights, OH).

The Bearcats (2-2) will now prepare for their game against Cleveland Heights (Cleveland Heights, OH). The Tigers enter the non-league game with a 1-3 record. In their last game, Cleveland Heights edged Maple Heights (Cleveland Heights, OH), 36-25, in a non-league game.

CMHA to Help Suburbs Track Rent-Subsidy Recipients

2005-09-19T08:16:00.000-04:00

Thomas Ott

Plain Dealer (Cleveland)

September 14, 2005

The Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority will consider helping Cleveland's older suburbs keep tabs on low-income renters as they filter into the nervous cities' neighborhoods.

A draft agreement calls for CMHA to furnish 17 cities with a list of properties where landlords accept federal rent subsidies. The agency would alert a city when a new landlord agrees to take tenants from the Housing Choice Voucher Program, formerly Section 8.

CMHA also would beef up a tenant-orientation program with a video and booklet that place emphasis on being a good neighbor. Public housing authorities in other parts of the country have similar programs. Earlier this year, Cleveland Heights proposed running its own mandatory classes for residents moving into the city under the voucher program.

City and CMHA officials began meeting after suburbs complained about the increasing use of subsidies to rent single-family homes and duplexes. U.S. Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones, a Cleveland Democrat, mediated. The suburbs said they worried that the tenants would form pockets of poverty and cause friction with middle-class residents.

Rick Wagner, a Cleveland Heights housing official who helped to lead the cities' charge, said some of the changes were culled from "best practices" spotlighted by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Cleveland Heights Mayor Ed Kelley praised the agreement, which needs approval from CMHA's board and the individual cities.

"We've made a lot of progress, and I'm happy with where we're headed," Kelley said.

CMHA Executive Director George Phillips said he had no major objections as long as the cities run education programs that take in other renters. Cleveland Heights will hold programs for all renters two or three times a year, but will not force attendance, Kelley said.

The agreement also calls for CMHA to make landlords fix housing violations, counsel problem tenants and yank vouchers from tenants who break laws dealing with drugs and violence. Phillips said CMHA already takes those steps.

"We're doing much of what they're asking," he said. "They just aren't aware of that."

Cities covered by the agreement would include: Bedford, Bedford Heights, Brook Park, Cleveland Heights, Cuyahoga Heights, East Cleveland, Euclid, Fairview Park, Garfield Heights, Lakewood, Lyndhurst, Maple Heights, Parma, Shaker Heights, South Euclid, University Heights and Warrensville Heights.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: tott@plaind.com, 216-999-5739

Lisy calls for regular recreation schedule

2005-09-10T19:46:00.000-04:00

http://www.ronlisy.com
Councilman Ron Lisy calls on City Manager to impliment uniform recreation schedule.
At the conclusion of the public meeting of Council, Ward One Councilman Ron Lisy called on City Manager Bob Reid to have the City Recreation Department impliment a regular and uniform schedule for open gym events at the City's Ellenwood recreation center.
Prior to the meeting Lisy had inquired about the availablity of open gym sessions at Ellenwood. During the public meeting session of open comments from residents, resident Venezuela Robinson stated that there is no set schedule for use of the facilities--- youth wishing to use the facilities must call each day to see if the gym may be used.
"I think it is obvious that there should be a set schedule. Kids need to know that, every Tuesday and Thursday, for example, they can go to the rec. center gym and shoot hoops. Why is giving that so hard?" Councilman Lisy asked.

Every American City Must have an Emergency Plan

2005-09-10T18:09:00.000-04:00

While the eyes of America are focused on New Orleans, Mississippi and the rest of the Hurricane Katrina damaged area, it is important that we learn from the tragedies there to minimize any future disaster, here in Bedford as well as across America.

-Councilman Ron Lisy

Senator Feinstein calls for every American City to Have an emergency plan.

http://feinstein.senate.gov/05releases/r-katrina0908.htm

"As we move forward together as a nation, we also need to focus on concrete solutions for improving our preparedness for calamities that engulf any part of the country.

In close cooperation with state and federal emergency agencies, each city in this country absolutely must have an effective emergency plan in place.

These plans need to include professional and skilled emergency operations directors, clear lines of authority, practical evacuation strategies, and previously determined command centers that can be up and running on a moment’s notice with satellite connections and powered by their own generators.

Key department heads should carry two-way radios with extra battery packs at all times.

The plans also must have mechanisms to immediately call for and facilitate the delivery of food, water, and medical supplies to areas in need.

But it is not enough to just have a plan in place. These plans must be rehearsed and drilled until they become second nature for the public agencies, emergency responders, and communities involved. When disaster strikes, there can be no confusion as to what must happen."

Two Council incumbents challenged

2005-08-30T20:44:00.000-04:00

In the races for Bedford City Council, Mayor/Councilman-at-Large Daniel S.Pocek and Ward 3 Councilwoman Marilyn Zolata will run for re-election unopposed this coming November.

In Ward 5, 14-year incumbent Greg Pozar, a financial planner by profession is being challenged by Lawyer/Real Estate Salesperson Madelyn Lecso.

In Ward One, First Term Councilman Ron Lisy, an insurance agent and editor of Bedford Ohio Blog, will face off against plumber and former-Councilman Warner Batten. Batten served 20 years on Council before being ousted by Lisy in 2001.

Current terms for Councilmembers Stan Koci, Paula Mizsak and Don Saunders do not expire until 2007.

Five file petitions for Bedford Board of Education

2005-08-30T20:36:00.000-04:00

According to the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections, two incumbent members of the Bedford Board of Education will not by seeking another term this fall,.

Joseph Allie of Walton Hills and Beth HousieauxSteward of Bedford did not file petitions for re-election.

Debora Kozak of Walton Hills, who was appointed to an unexpired term, has filed to be elected in her own right.

Also filing were Bedford Residents Terry Sanders, Tim Tench, and Andrew C.M.Mizsak,MAP, and Bedford Heights resident Daisy Roane.

-RL

Mizsak on the ballot, ready for true discussion

2005-08-30T20:32:00.000-04:00

The following are excerpts for a press release posted on the campaign website of Andrew Miszak, Candidate for Bedford Board of Education.

MIZSAK ON THE BALLOT, READY FOR TRUE DISCUSSION

BEDFORD (Cuyahoga County, Ohio) - - Friday, August 26, 2005 - - School Board Candidate Andrew Mizsak spoke briefly today about how he would like to see this year’s campaign for the Bedford Board of Education shake out.

Mizsak is seeking one of the three seats available on the Bedford Board of Education.

“There are issues of substance that need to be addressed, such as improving relations with the four communities, raising the District’s academic performance rating from ‘Continuous improvement’ to at least effective, watching the District’s finances very carefully, and working to attract residents and businesses to the School District,” added Mizsak.

Mizsak, the Assistant Democratic Leader for the City of Bedford and Village of Walton Hills, has been endorsed by County Commissioner Jimmy Dimora, County Auditor Frank Russo, State Senator Eric D. Fingerhut, Ohio House Democratic Leader Chris Redfern, and the Cleveland Building and Construction Trades Council.

“I want people to know that I am not just one community’s or one organization’s candidate, but rather, I am the peoples’ candidate. I will not play the politics of race or divisiveness: I will not allow anti-African American; anti-White; or pro-any specific group sentiments permeate into this race, " continued Mizsak.

When discussing the current state of affairs in the Bedford Schools, Mizsak offers these thoughts:

“With regards to certain current incumbent Board Members, while I thank them for their service, I am not upset that one in particular is not running. ..... With regards to faculty and staff, there are several in the Administrative Team who need to be evaluated a little closer, and, if I have the privilege of being elected, they will be. However, I want everyone in the District to know one thing for sure: although test scores are not the only way to evaluate a School District, I am not satisfied with being in Continuous Improvement, and if I am elected, I will not rest until we are in the next category,” Mizsak said.

Finally, with regards to the issue of the Village of Walton Hills wishing to leave the Bedford City Schools, Mizsak offered this commentary:

“To Mayor Anielski, Council President Knapp, Members of Council, and the people of Walton Hills, I want to work with you. I want to address your concerns, dispel all rumors, and present to you facts and only facts about the Bedford City Schools. This is not a perfect school district, but no school district is, and I believe that together, beginning with a true, and constructive dialogue so we can change things from the inside and work to make the Bedford Schools the best district in Ohio,” Mizsak concluded.

###

Andrew C.M. Mizsak is a candidate for the Bedford Board of Education. For additional information about the candidate, please refer to his website, http://www.AndrewMizsak.com.

Zoning Board denies variance request for St. Mary's

2005-08-30T20:21:00.000-04:00

Church wants to lease convent as development facility for young men
by Emily Canning-Dean, Bedford Times Register

Reporter

Bedford - Although St. Mary Catholic Church would like to lease its convent to a family development organization, it might not receive a zoning variance it needs to do so.

At Tuesday’s meeting, the board of zoning appeals denied the church’s request to rezone the convent from residential R2 to R3, which would allow Claudia’s Family Development to operate an overnight care and development facility on the property. The facility would require R3 zoning because children would be staying at it overnight and because it would be an operation separate from the church.

The Rev. Thomas Winkle said the convent would be used by Claudia’s Family Development to host after-school programs and to provide overnight care for young men ages 12 to 17.

Building Commissioner Phil Seyboldt said St. Mary must show a hardship in order to warrant a zoning change. He said a definition of a hardship would mean that the church could not use, lease or sell the facility for permitted use under the current zoning.

“I think [Claudia’s Family Development] is a worthwhile organization,” said BZA member Lisa Kropf. “But we need to see that there is some kind of hardship for the church.”

Winkle said the convent has been vacant for a year and the church has talked to a few organizations about leasing it such as preschools and day care facilities, which would be permitted uses, but plans fell through.

BZA members said the diocese could sell the building, but Winkle said the diocese often tries to keep its property instead of selling it.

Seyboldt said the matter will go before Council at its next meeting Sept. 6, and Council can either uphold or overturn the BZA’s decision.

Norman Smith, spokesperson for Claudia’s Family Development, said he and representatives from St. Mary will probably appear before Council to request it overturns the decision.

Winkle said he wants residents to know that the church doesn’t plan to do anything that would hurt the neighborhood.

“The purpose of the facility is not to house juvenile delinquents,” Winkle said. “The respite care is provided for kids whose families are having problems and they need a break.”

Smith said boys receiving respite care at the facility would stay no longer than 14 days and would stay for two or three days on average.

Winkle said the maximum capacity for the convent is 30 people, but Smith said no more than 12 boys would stay in the convent at one time, and there would be an adult on premises for every three boys.

“The adults in our programs are either certified teachers or social workers,” Smith said.

During weekday afternoons from 3 to 6 p.m., Smith said the group hopes to host after-school programs for the boys, including tutoring, life skills and independent living.

“We also plan to do activities with some of these boys,” he said. “Some of these kids have no one to take them camping.”

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110

School bus drivers trained to be terrorism watchdogs

2005-08-30T20:20:00.000-04:00

by Emily Canning-Dean, Bedford Times-Register

Reporter

Bedford - Parents expect school bus drivers to transport their children safely to and from school by driving carefully and obeying traffic laws. But do they expect them to keep an eye out for suspicious activity in the streets or to check the bus tires for magnetic devices that could be bombs?

These are some of the new procedures Margi Marsh, who regularly transports up to 40 students to and from school and on field trips, is completing during her work day. While she is concerned this large number of students on one bus could be a potential target for terrorism, she feels ready to protect them, after receiving training from the Ohio Department of Education and the Bedford Heights Police Department.

Marsh was one of the district’s 98 transportation employees who attended an ODE training seminar in Medina Aug. 12. The group also attended a seminar locally Aug. 17 where BHPD representatives spoke.

“I think the training made us more aware of what could be going on,” Marsh said.

Ann Way, supervisor for the district’s transportation garage, said drivers and other transportation employees are taking extra precautions after attending the seminars.

“We are keeping school buses locked because they are parked outside,” she said. “Our drivers make pretrip inspections even if the bus is left unattended for only 15 minutes, checking under the wheels and looking for backpacks or anything suspicious.”

Bus aide Andrea Hrybs aid the seminars also taught transportation employees to notice children who are acting in a peculiar way because some forms of terrorism could be caused by a student.

“We learned to watch for students’ behavior,” she said. “Maybe there is a child who is normally very friendly and talkative who has become withdrawn and quiet.”

According to an ODE press release, the state is providing free terrorism prevention training to public school bus drivers in the state. The program, School Bus Watch, is meant to provide drivers with background on potential threats to school buses, give drivers a history on terrorism worldwide and give tips on preventing threatening events.

“As a result of their daily driving routine, school bus drivers are some of the best sources to notice something out of the ordinary,” said Susan Tave Zelman, superintendent of public instruction.

Bedford Heights Police Chief Tim Kalavsky said the police department wants school bus drivers to work with law enforcement to look out for anything out of the ordinary.

“In an event of terror on a school bus, drivers should be aware of what to do,” Kalavsky said. “We want drivers to notify us if they see anything suspicious.”

Way said she plans to have the transportation employees take additional training later.

“We would like to work together with the police departments in all of the communities,” she said. “I think bus drivers can be a good resource for preventing bad situations.”

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110

No cars on the lawn

2005-08-30T20:18:00.000-04:00

Man gets a ticket for washing his car on the grass in his yard

By MIKE LESKO
Staff Writer

Aug. 25, 2005

BEDFORD — A Bedford man said he doesn't want to live in the city if he is not permitted to wash his car on his front lawn.

"I've been parking my car on my grass for the last 40 or 50 years I've lived here," Wellmon Street resident Louis Sounik said.

It is in response to the city fining residents for parking vehicles on their front lawns. The fine is $5. Police cited Sounik last month.

"I came home and was going outside to wash my car on the front yard," he said.

"I went in my house to change clothes and pulled out a hose. Then I got a knock on the door and there was a policeman. He said I am not supposed to park on the grass."

When he told the officer he has been doing that for decades, he was told it is against the law.

"It was in 90-degree weather when we didn't have much water, and the policeman wrote me a ticket," he said.

Sounik said he doesn't mind the ticket but simply the idea that he can't park on the grass and wash his car.

"I don't want to live in Bedford if an individual can't wash his car on his property," he said.

City Manager Bob Reid summoned the officer and said Sounik was warned numerous times.

For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.

City sees liquor licenses as a means to attract new restaurants

2005-08-22T19:26:00.000-04:00

Bedford has had its fill

City sees liquor licenses as a means to attract new restaurants

By MIKE LESKO
Staff Writer

Aug. 18, 2005

BEDFORD — Liquor licenses can help lure a restaurant to a community, but they are not always easy to obtain.

With 14 already, Bedford has reached its quota for liquor licenses, which are based on the population of a town and are regulated by Ohio's Division of Liquor Control.

"When a restaurant wants to come to an area, one of the issues is liquor licenses," City Manager Bob Reid said. "You can't just get another one whenever you want.

"If an entrepreneur wanted to come into downtown Bedford, I'm confident that he or she would like to have a liquor license," he said.

Mayor Dan Pocek said he hoped the city could attract a restaurant to the downtown area this year, which could help stimulate more business there. He and other town leaders realize it is easier said than done.

Yet there are ways of getting an extra liquor license — by going outside the quota.

For communities with less than a 75,000 population, Reid said additional licenses can be obtained if a restaurant seats at least 140 people or has at least 4,000 square feet of floor space, according to state law.

In other words, larger establishments have a leg up on the competition. Reid said that is how five businesses got liquor licenses when Legacy Village opened in Lyndhurst.

For the rest of the story, see your local Sun newspaper.

School district still holds ‘continuous improvement’ rank

2005-08-22T19:15:00.001-04:00

From the Bedford Times Register

School district still holds ‘continuous improvement’ rank

by Karen Mathena and Emily Canning-Dean

Bedford Times Register, Regional Editor and Reporter

Columbus - The Ohio Department of Education reported Aug. 16 the results of the 2004-05 Local Report Cards, and

the Bedford school district is rated “continuous improvement” again this year.

This is the third year that districts and schools have been rated by Ohio’s new accountability system, which measures current achievement and improvement using 23 performance indicators, a performance index, growth calculation and Adequate Yearly Progress.

According to the ODE districts with a performance index score- the average test performance of fourth and sixth-graders based on a scale of 0-120, of 80 percent or higher will receive a rating of at least continuous improvement. Bedford received a score of 82.3.

“We are very proud of our results,” said Superintendent Marty Motsco. “I believe this is because of dedicated teachers and a strong curriculum.”

Motsco said she also believes the district benefits from data analysis by teachers and administrators.

“We look at test results from students to determine what areas they need to improve upon,” she said.

Motsco said she is especially proud of Bedford High School for receiving an effective rating as a building.

“Teachers and administrators all across the district should be commended for this,” she said. “A quality education doesn’t start in the ninth grade.”

Both Heskett Middle School and Carylwood Intermediate School received continuous improvement ratings, but Aurora Upper Intermediate School and Columbus Intermediate school received academic watch ratings.

Motsco said that Aurora and Columbus were close to having continuous improvement ratings. With a 79.1 percent performance index score, Aurora was nine-tenths of a point away from continuous improvement and Columbus was seven-tenths of a point away with a performance index score of 79.3.

Motsco said district officials and educators will continue to collaborate on new ways to improve scores.

“Our work is not done. Our goal is excellence,” Motsco said.

Board President Joe Allie agreed.

“I am pleased that the district is in continuing improvement,” Allie said. “But we need to continue until we reach excellence.”

Officials say there is improvement also on the state level.

According to Dr. Mitch Chester, associate superintendent for policy and accountability for ODE, two out of three districts received excellent or effective ratings on the Report Cards.

Eighty-five percent of districts received proficient ratings, which include excellent, effective or continuous improvement designations. The lower designations are academic watch and academic emergency.

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110

Downtown businesses to depart

2005-08-22T19:15:00.000-04:00

From the Bedford Times Register

Downtown businesses to depart

by Emily Canning-Dean

Bedford Times Register Reporter

Bedford - As this year comes to a close, so will two fixtures in downtown Bedford. Nienal Shoes, 670 Broadway Ave., and Romito’s Smoke Shop, 703 Broadway Ave., both plan to close their doors by December.

Bernard Nienal, 92, has been in semiretirement for several years, but he and his daughter, Diane, both are ready to fully retire. They plan on closing in December.

Nienal said he and his wife, Mary, opened the store in downtown Bedford 55 years ago.

“Mary went door to door telling our neighbors about the business,” he said. “She made friends with a lot of customers. I had worked in shoe stores since I was 14, and my mother got me a job at one.”

Frank Romito said he will close shop Dec. 3 or 10. He said he started working at Romito’s Smoke Shop for his father, Constantino, when he was young.

“My father opened the shop in 1919,” Romito said.

Romito, a Walton Hills resident, said larger superstores have meant less business for his small downtown Bedford shop he said he also is ready to retire.

“I think we’re affected by all the mini-marts surrounding the area, too,” he said. “People go there now for their snacks and cigarettes.”

Nienal said he agrees that business customs have changed.

“We would always help the customer with fitting shoes,” he said. “Now at shoe stores the salespeople just hand the customer the shoes and have them try them on themselves.”

Diane Nienal said her parents had personal relationships with their customers.

“Before a lot of people had credit cards, they could set up personal accounts in the store where they could get their shoes right away and make payments on them when they could,” she said.

Romito said he also had a lot of regular customers.

“I’ll definitely miss them,” he said. “A lot of them still come in here.”

Diane said she and her father plan to sell the space their business is in, but Romito said he might hold onto his building after he closes up shop.

“I might sell it for the right price,” he said. “If not I’ll lease it to another business.”

Economic Development Director Rebecca Kwiatkowski-Corrigan said the city is looking for other businesses to move into the buildings.

“We’ve had a few people who are interested in Romito’s space, but nothing is definite yet,” she said.

E-mail: ecanning@recordpub.net

Phone: 440-232-4055 ext. 4110

The Circus is coming, The Circus is coming!

2005-08-07T16:32:00.000-04:00

The Bailey Brothers Circus is coming to Bedford August 19, 20, and 21 to the Bedford High School practice field. Tickets on sale now for $10 adults, kids 12 and under are FREE! But don't wait, tickets will be $15 day of the event with kids tickets $7. Contact the Bedford Chamber of Commerce office today for more details on how and where you can get tickets at 440-232-0115.

Audio Greeting from Councilman Ron Lisy

2005-08-04T07:55:00.000-04:00

Bedford Lions Festival this weekend

2005-08-04T06:06:00.000-04:00

This weekend is the annual Bedford Lions carnival at Bedford Commons, Thursday Aug.4th thru Sunday Aug. 7th.

Be sure to stop by the Bedford Commons and take part in the fun.

The event is the major fundraiser for the Lions club of Bedford, providing funds for many area charitible projects.

(More info to come).......

Zoning in on New Homes

2005-08-03T08:52:00.000-04:00

Zoning in on new homes

Leaders consider relaxing restrictions to attract downtown residential units
By MIKE LESKO Staff Writer
July 28, 2005

BEDFORD — Town leaders want to create more housing near the city's downtown area.
"Any vibrant downtown has additional housing around it," City Manager Bob Reid said.
Officials hope to have multi-family housing units on Willis Street, just west of Broadway Avenue, an area which is zoned for industrial.
Proposed zoning changes would allow business owners on Willis Street to sell their companies to businesses that aren't covered in the industrial zoning laws.
"Also, there is a one-year stipulation that, if you closed your doors as an industry, you would eventually lose that exemption as an industrial use," Reid said. "If you came back after one year and one day, you'd have to abide by the new zoning rules."
So, for example, if an industry there closed for more than one year, it could no longer be permitted in the industrial zone. Reid said that is a city-wide ordinance, not just on Willis Street.
Still, city officials are holding off on making the new zoning official.

View article online: http://www.sunnews.com/news/2005/part2/0728/EZONING.htm

© 2005 Sun NewspapersGo to Sun Newspapers http://www.sunnews.com/ home

Bedford Yahoogroups List Serv

2005-08-03T00:53:00.000-04:00

There is a Listserv for Bedford Ohio updates and info.

You can subscribe to the listserv by emailing bedford1-subscribe@yahoogroups.com or visiting the website....

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bedford1/

Thanks!

Bedford wrestles with rec issues

2005-08-02T23:58:00.000-04:00

Bedford wrestles with rec issues
City's needs exceed what it
can afford to be competitive
By MIKE LESKO Staff Writer
June 30, 2005
BEDFORD — Is Ellenwood Center, a former school building, sufficient for Bedford's future recreational needs?
Councilman Ron Lisy doesn't think so.
"Ellenwood leaves quite a bit to be desired," Lisy said. "Maybe a revamping of Ellenwood is not out of the question in the next few years."
Lisy would like to see the addition of weight-lifting equipment and a more up-to-date gym — "something modest but good for the community.
He added, "It could happen as long as we stay sound financially."
Mayor Dan Pocek said while Ellenwood should serve the city well in the near future, he would like to see an expansion with a new gym.
It is all part of keeping an eye on the future, which Bedford officials are doing.
"You've got to get younger families involved in the community," Councilman Don Saunders said.

http://www.sunnews.com/news/2005/part1/0630/EBB130X.htm

Bedford Schools: Preliminary graduation test results mixed

2005-08-02T23:54:00.000-04:00

Preliminary graduation test results mixed: 10th-graders score high in reading, writing; fall short in math, science, social studies
by Karen Mathena and Emily Canning-DeanRegional Editor and Reporter

The Ohio Department of Education reported July 13 preliminary and unverified results of the Ohio Graduation Test, which was administered to 10th graders in March.In the Bedford School District, 91 percent of students were proficient in reading, 59.8 percent in math, 80.4 percent in writing, 46.2 percent in science and 67.2 percent in social studies.Each school district has 30 days to contest the results to the ODE before official results are released later this summer, according to the ODE.The OGT tests students in reading, math, writing, science and social studies. The test replaced the Ninth-Grade Proficiency Test last year, beginning with the class of 2007.With both preliminary reading and writing scores above a 75 percent proficiency rate, the district should receive content standards - a “point” - in both categories on the state report card, which will be released next month. “We are especially happy about our reading score,” said Bedford Superintendent Marty Motsco. “We focus on reading here because it is so vital in all areas.”Motsco said the district strives to work with students to improve scores and education. “We have interventionists at the elementary schools who can assist students all day,” she said. “We have volunteer tutors and after school tutoring programs. We also use computers to assess where our children are at and where they need improvement.”Students must achieve a proficient score on the test to meet graduation requirements. Students who do not pass the test during their sophomore years have the opportunity to retake the test during the fall and spring of their junior and senior years.Statewide, of the approximately 134,000 students who took each section of the test, 90.7 percent achieved at least a proficient score in reading, 79.6 percent in math, 82.1 percent in writing, 70.9 percent in science and 77.5 percent in social studies.Nearly 63.6 percent of the students who took all five tests achieved at least a proficient score on all five sections.All public and community schools in the state administered the test, along with some chartered schools, which were not included in the results.The OGT tests students on the state standards set by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2002.

E-mail: kmathena@recordpub.netPhone: 330-688-0088 ext. 3154