A Local, Seasonal Approach Is in the Name and Food at Scorpacciata Pasta Co.
Meet Teddy Baldassarre, a Young Watch
HAS ONE
Championship experience meets rising star power. Tristan Thompson and Darius Garland are the heart of Cleveland’s fight for an NBA Title.
DRAWN UP
Renderings Input Hopes and Dreams To Sketch Out Cleveland’s Future
ONE
The transformed Cleveland Museum of Natural History invites you to explore reimagined spaces and all-new exhibits that foster a deeper connection to science and nature. Discover yourself at the center of natural history.
ON THE COVER
CAVS IN CONVO Read an enlightening conversation between two Cleveland Cavaliers standouts as they continue to push toward their big postseason title hopes. Edited by Dillon Stewart Photographed by Casey Rearick Assisted by Jesika Orahoske Makeup by Riley Gable-Fleming
OF THE LAND
WATCH KING Teddy Baldassarre has built a watch-lover's paradise in his Crocker Park store and on YouTube.
PEACEFUL FLOAT Read what it's like to experience a float spa, a popular wellness trend in Northeast Ohio.
R&B STAR Cleveland native Durand Bernarr shares the story of his success, including a recent Grammy nomination.
CHUCK Remembering the local TV legend Chuck Schodowski.
RENDERED Local architects and designers carefully craft renderings that help the planning and construction work that's transforming the city, project by project.
& DRINK
AND PASTA Scorpacciata Pasta Co. dishes up a fresh take on seasonal Italian deliciousness in Larchmere.
BEARD Meet the four 2025 James Beard-nominated Cleveland chefs.
RIVER EATS Explore the best bites in this West Side
NO CLEVELANDER LEFT BEHIND: THE CLEVELAND FOUNDATION DRIVES TRANSFORMATIONAL CHANGE IN THE LIVES OF NORTHEAST OHIO RESIDENTS THROUGH GRANTMAKING, INVESTING AND NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT.
Investing in a vibrant Northeast Ohio and responding to immediate community needs is a tandem effort at the Cleveland Foundation. It’s a commitment that recognizes just how interconnected we are, and that there’s work to be done at the individual, neighborhood and regional levels.
“We need to grow the region and make sure that all residents have access to the opportunities that yield prosperity,” says Lillian Kuri, president and CEO of the Cleveland Foundation. “We can’t help our people if the region isn’t growing.”
The foundation is digging deep into its change-driving toolkit—deploying strategic investments to secure that vibrant future.
The country’s first community foundation was born in Cleveland—the vision of a lawyer and banker who wanted a better way to pool the community’s resources and put that money to work.
The Cleveland Foundation today operates on much the same core model as the community savings account established in 1914—it raises money with the help of a generous community of donors, it invests that money so it grows, and it grants money out to nonprofits providing life-changing services.
Grantmaking is one of the most powerful tools at the foundation’s disposal because it’s the most immediate, says Joyce Pan Huang, the foundation’s chief impact officer. “Grants are the foundation’s way of continually investing in the nonprofit landscape and supporting the services that meet our neighbors where they are,” she says. As such, the foundation’s approach to grantmaking has evolved as community needs have changed during its century-plus of existence.
The foundation’s move from a downtown high-rise to its own headquarters building in MidTown in 2023 marked a jump in its evolution.
“We had an opportunity to really reflect on the last 100 years and look ahead to the next, and ask ‘what does our community want from us now?" says Kuri. “The process of moving and asking these questions were guiding factors to setting priorities for grantmaking and collaborating with partners to make change in the community.”
To answer these questions, the foundation took a deep look into not only what tools it has to make impact, but how it can use those tools in new, innovative ways, including refining its grantmaking priorities to amplify the power of those investments.
“We have to focus if we really want to drive change,” says Huang. “Our community will always be able to count on us to support their needs now. But we need to apply this long-term lens to grow our region and invest in our neighborhoods, which will ultimately improve people’s lives.”
Leveraging neighborhood and regionallevel investment to achieve long-term, transformative impact is not new at the foundation. The foundation’s call for expanded public recreational opportunities led to the first purchases of parkland that would become the Cleveland Metroparks. And while it’s hard to imagine Cleveland without Playhouse Square, the theaters were in danger of demolition in the early 1980s until the foundation stepped in.
The 2023 move to MidTown gave the foundation more than just a new home, it gave the organization a chance to really become a part of the neighborhood and find innovative ways to help fuel exciting investments already underway.
Earlier this year, the MidTown Collaboration Center (MCC) opened next door to the Cleveland Foundation. More than just a neighbor, the foundation is a lead developer
and owner of the building. The ground floor combines equal parts office space and community gathering space, and the whole MCC is designed to bring together multiple (and sometimes unexpected) companies and disciplines, fostering ideal conditions for creative, leading-edge collaborations.
Chris Harris is bringing his Toledo-based Black Frog Brewery to MidTown in the MCC, which will also feature a music venue — the Sixty6 — and Pearl’s Kitchen, led by local chef Tiwanna Scott-Williams.
After meeting with Kuri about the MCC vision and connecting with partners from JumpStart — small business incubator and the lead tenant in the new building — Harris was hooked. “It was a perfect fit,” he says. “It was community-first, and they were looking to provide something to MidTown that isn’t there, so I really appreciate that.”
Alongside the Black Frog Brewery and Pearl’s Kitchen, the MCC’s intentionally
“We had an opportunity to really reflect on the last 100 years and look ahead to the next, and ask ‘what does our community want from us now?”
Lillian Kuri Cleveland Foundation President and CEO
diverse combination of entities brings together multiple sectors and disciplines for a “both and” economic-development model centered on community. Other MCC partners include JumpStart, Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals, the Cleveland Institute of Art, Hyland Software, ECDI and Assembly for the Arts.
Now that the doors are open, Harris and his fellow tenants are excited to build on the MCC’s momentum. “It goes to show what can be done if you really care about the city and its neighborhoods,” Harris says. “It takes some investment, and you just nurture it and it will grow. That is how I feel about the MCC. We have to keep nurturing it — and it will grow and grow.”
The foundation’s grantmaking and neighborhood investments are two powerful ways it drives impact in Northeast Ohio. But one of its mightiest tools just might be its literal investments — the funds where charitable dollars are planted to grow.
The foundation offers a robust selection of investment pools to donors, from traditional mixes to more boutique offerings like green bonds and socially responsible investment options. The newest option — the Impact Cleveland Pool — offers a way for donors to do good and do well by investing in stocks of the top 20 corporations right here in Greater Cleveland.
“This pool has showed major returns above the S&P 500 for over 15 years,” Kuri says, piecing together a potential triplebottom-line win for Cleveland, community and donors who could give more with a fund largely bolstered by investment in the city’s top companies.
This pool — along with the foundation’s other investment options — offers an opportunity for donors to achieve top-tier returns.
The returns on all the foundation’s investments — financial, grantmaking and neighborhood development — are the transformational changes that will create and sustain a vibrant region for all residents.
“We are the place where people come together to do their charitable giving in a way that can make the kind of transformational change that our incredible donors and leaders want to achieve,” Kuri says.
Learn more by reaching out to our team at 877-554-5054 or hello@clevefdn.org.
Measurable change you can feel is what led Meltrice Sharp to the Cleveland Foundation. She’s a Cleveland native helping her neighbors in Northeast Ohio with business consulting and accounting services to advance community members’ financial health. Sharp grew up giving back and over the years has elevated her strategy to maximize impact.
Three years ago, Sharp, a financial consultant at CLE Consulting Firm, started a donor advised fund with business partner LaRese Purnell. Their vision: a more financially empowered Greater Cleveland. Sharp also established a second fund with her husband to continue a family legacy of giving back.
Sharp is the founder of Women Creating Wealth & Impact (WCWI), leading its annual Money Makeover conference, and calls involvement with the Cleveland Foundation “a game changer.”
“The conversations, the connections and the focus on empowering our community through philanthropy and giving in a strategic way is very meaningful to me and really solidified my commitment to this work,” Sharp says.
Sharp reflects on an experience she facilitated where women interested in aligning more closely with a philanthropic strategy visited the foundation’s headquarters in MidTown. They asked questions, they dove into meaningful discussions — they laughed and embraced a shared goal to make a difference right at home.
Sharp says, “The people at the Cleveland Foundation care about more than just dollars and cents. They care about empowering the unempowered, supporting the community and making a meaningful impact for the underserved community.
The Impact Cleveland Pool is a first-of-its kind, place-based investment pool.
• A public equity portion is invested exclusively in companies based in Northeast Ohio and has delivered returns that significantly outpace the S&P 500 over 15 years.
• Capital is allocated to private equity and venture funds headquartered in Cleveland or committed to deploying investments within the region.
Learn more by reaching out to our team at 877-554-5054 or hello@clevefdn.org.
LUCY’S STORY: During a prenatal ultrasound, Jaclyn Drager sensed something was wrong. Moments later, she and her boyfriend, Ken Nelson, learned their unborn daughter, Lucy, had a severe congenital heart disease (CHD). Diagnosed with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) and pulmonary atresia, Lucy’s heart condition impaired blood flow to her lungs.
Shocked but determined, Jaclyn sought advice and connected with Cleveland Clinic Children’s pediatric cardiologist Dr. Clare O’Hare. “Dr. O’Hare saw how scared we were, patiently answering every question. She’s why we chose Cleveland Clinic for Lucy’s care,” Jaclyn explains.
Dr. O’Hare’s team crafted a care plan to maximize Lucy’s growth in utero. Lucy arrived early on October 16, 2023, weighing 6 pounds, 8 ounces. Days later, doctors inserted a temporary stent to improve blood flow.
Through Cleveland Clinic Children’s Infant High-Risk Program, Jaclyn and Ken learned to monitor Lucy’s condition at home. “The program was life-changing.
It was hard, but the support and tools we received made it manageable,” says Jaclyn.
At three months, Lucy underwent a 6-hour surgery led by Dr. Hani Najm. The procedure involved removing the stent, patching a ventricular defect and inserting a conduit to improve blood flow. To everyone’s relief, Lucy was discharged just five days later.
Now 14 months old, Lucy thrives—walking, talking and climbing with boundless energy. While she’ll need additional surgery as she grows, Jaclyn is grateful. “She’s doing all the typical things you’d expect. We’re so blessed.”
Programs like the Infant High-Risk Program are supported by generous funding, ensuring stories like Lucy’s continue.
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My 2016 NBA Finals experience was unique.
My family planned a trip to Croatia, where my mother grew up, long before LeBron James returned to Cleveland. The trip would be life-changing: meeting my mother’s beloved cousins for the first time, seeing the stone hut in which my grandfather was born and eating seafood from the Mediterranean Sea where he fished.
We didn’t know then that the Cleveland Cavaliers would be in the middle of an epic, knock-down fight against the Golden State Warriors to break a 52-year title drought.
So, after long days of touring ancient castles in Pula and hiking the narrow walkways surrounding the cascading waterfalls at Krka National Park, we huddled around a 6-by-6inch iPhone in a hotel lobby. My father paid some asinine price for an NBA streaming app. Key moments sputtered through unstable Wi-Fi. Tipoff was 3 a.m. local time. I wondered what hotel staff thought of us crazy Americans until we attended a watch party for the Croatia national soccer team, which had made it to the UEFA European Championship that year. Kindred spirits.
Our 11-hour return flight landed in Toronto around 10 a.m. on June 19 — the morning of Game 7. Through tired eyes, we careened over the Canadian border, showered up, ditched our bags and headed Downtown. The bars overflowed hours before tipoff, so we hunkered down in a buddy’s apartment at the Residence at 1717.
With 10.6 seconds left in the game, LeBron James swatted a layup from Andre Iguodala. Game over. Winners. As the King fell to
the floor in celebratory tears, a human river spilled out of apartments and bars. Heads poked through sunroofs of cars blasting “Cleveland Rocks” and “East 1999” by Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. Smoke from cigars and, umm, other things wafted through the air. Cops watched as fans chugged beers in the middle of East Ninth Street. Revelers overtook a firetruck — which was maybe not great — but the pics were cool. We found a lost friend shirtless in the center of a dance circle, flossing his top between his legs. I still have the video. The scene was motivated by the same thing as any good riot: passion.
Tristan Thompson could sense our intensity from the court 3,000 miles away. He senses it again this year, as the Cavaliers enter the playoffs as the NBA’s team to beat. The big man, after 11 seasons in Cleveland, is one of us. His role on the court is diminished this season, but the 32-year-old’s championship pedigree is valuable in a locker room that lacks deep playoff experience.
Darius Garland, now the second-longest tenured Cavalier with six seasons under his belt, gets us, too. Garland even wears the Cleveland underdog status as a badge of honor. He is an All-Star now, but he hasn’t forgotten that tough first year where critics called him the worst rookie in the league. He’s even dubbed this his “revenge season.” Since then, Thompson pulled Garland closer, offering advice and fueling a mental strategy. This month’s feature conversation (“Revenge Season,” page 50) brings to light how these types of relationships create winning atmospheres. The big man plumbs the 25-yearold playmaker’s headspace as the duo faces a challenging playoff run, with sights set on confetti falling again on Cleveland.
Cleveland hugs Garland and Thompson because they have embraced us. They eat at our restaurants, work together through adversity and stand proud in calling this their home. Now, we hope that the drive to win for their adopted hometown can make all of our championship dreams a reality. Because we want another one, too.
Dillon Stewart, editor
216 Day is Cleveland’s favorite local holiday, using the Feb. 16 calendar date to celebrate the city’s iconic area code. This year, we asked our readers on Instagram what they love most about the 216.
@selfmade.shorty How beautiful the art is here ❤ everywhere speaks art and that’s what makes Cleveland unique ❤
@lorettadazzlindazz My huge blood and non-blood family! ❤ ❤ ❤
@ohiocitypainting I love most the support Cleveland has given to our business and other local businesses.
@aboutfaceplace Beautiful parks, trails and beaches in the summer, museums, culture, great food, good people, snowmen, sledding, fall…shall I go on?
FAVORITE CLEVELAND
RESTAURANT: I’ve become a big fan of Tripi [Italian Specialties] since its opening.
The fish are frying! Over 150 Cleveland restaurants, parishes and social clubs offer seasonal and yearround catches worth trying. Visit clevelandmagazine.com/fishfry for all participating locations.
Vince Guerrieri is typically the last name you’ll see in Cleveland Magazine, but certainly not the least. The recurring author of our Look Back section, which closes out each print issue, has also written features about 10 Cent Beer Night and Rocket Arena’s 30th anniversary, plus his book titled Weird Moments in Cleveland Sports.
FAVORITE MOMENT IN CLEVELAND HISTORY: Being an Indians fan in 1995. We went to Game 5 of the World Series. Jim Thome hit a home run that I’m not sure has landed yet, and [Jacobs Field] shook.
FUN FACT: I can name all 47 U.S. Presidents in order — probably in reverse order, too.
Think your pet is the cutest in Cleveland? We want to know! To help us all celebrate our furry (and not-so-furry) friends, Cleveland Magazine is hosting its 5th annual Cutest Pet Contest. Visit clevelandmagazine.com/cutestpet by May 15 to upload your favorite pet picture, and then our readers will vote for their favorite!
The pet selected as the cutest by our readers will be highlighted in the July issue of Cleveland Magazine and will receive a prize package from our sponsors!
Presented By:
If showing off your pet’s cuteness isn’t enough, you can help us save lives, too! In an effort to support pet adoption and responsible pet ownership, Cleveland Magazine will be taking donations for area pet rescues on our Cutest Pet Contest page.
Sponsored By:
Teddy Baldassarre has spent the past eight years building an empire in the world of luxury watches. The 31-year-old Cleveland native has amassed more than 2 million YouTube subscribers with his videos drawing more than 10 million views per month, making him one of the most influential voices in the watch community.
Baldassarre grew up on the East Side of Cleveland before attending the University of Dayton. After college, he returned to Northeast Ohio for a job but found himself searching for a community of fellow watch enthusiasts.
“While I was working at a job out of school, I was into watches, but I decided to post a video on the internet about my watch collection in 2017, and basically, eight years later, here we are,” he says.
That first YouTube video — shared without telling his friends or family — was the beginning of what would become a career. Now, he is a major watch influencer, known for his deep knowledge, engaging content
Teddy Baldassarre’s store in Crocker Park has become a hot spot for watch aficionados from all over the globe.
and successful retail business.
Baldassarre’s love for watches began in college when he wanted to refine his professional style.
“I was mostly thinking about my professional career and like, ‘Oh, hey, I need to look the part. I need menswear.’ I was really into that,” he says. “And I stumbled on a watch because that’s the form of jewelry a guy wears.”
It wasn’t long before his new interest turned into a deep passion. He became fascinated by the history, mechanics and craftsmanship behind timepieces and quickly embraced the world of collecting.
“The language of watchmaking just spoke to me in a beautiful way, and I was hooked,” he says. “But I didn’t really start to collect until once I got out of school because I didn’t have any money in college. Then, I ended up spending probably more money than I should have after school on watches, and the rest was basically history.”
Despite having a large collection of watches, the most meaningful piece in Baldassarre’s collection isn’t the most expensive — it’s a vintage Wittnauer watch that belonged to his great-grandfather.
“He immigrated from Italy, and that watch was, at that time, not a very expensive piece,” he says. “But given the fact that they were children of immigrants, that was what they pulled together as the funds. That was just the thank you and gesture.”
His father later passed the watch down to him, knowing how much it would mean to his son.
Baldassarre’s Crocker Park retail store, sporting a striking “TEDDY” sign over its glass doors, has become a hub for watch enthusiasts — not just from Cleveland, but from across the country.
“We have a great partner in Crocker Park, allowing us to do more events in the area,” he says. “Last year, we did a large-scale event and a variety of more intimate events, and it’s been a fantastic way of getting everybody together in one room.”
With a mix of monthly events, brand collaborations and collector meetups, Baldassarre’s store has transformed into a destination for watch lovers. “There are many people that come in for our events that are not just coming from Cleveland,” he says. “This has become more of a destination spot for people that either follow the channel or just love watches.”
As Baldassarre’s reputation has grown, so has his list of high-profile clients, which includes celebrities, business moguls and entertainers. His expertise in timepieces and captivating content have made him a trusted resource for those looking to expand their watch collections.
Among his notable clients is comedian and podcast host Tom Segura, who joined Baldassarre for a watch-shopping episode that amassed more than 700,000 views on YouTube. The segment, which explored the craftsmanship and value of luxury timepieces, became a fan favorite, introducing Segura’s audience to the intricacies of fine watches.
Another well-known client is Chris Hansen, the former host of To Catch a Predator, who has admired Baldassarre’s expertise and ability to make watch collecting accessible to a wider audience.
One of his most frequent guests is Kevin O’Leary, the Shark Tank investor and watch enthusiast, who has appeared in multiple videos with Baldassarre. O’Leary, known for his extensive collection and sharp business acumen, has spoken highly of Baldassarre’s ability to educate and entertain viewers while showcasing the artistry behind luxury watches.
Through these high-profile collaborations, Baldassarre has solidified his status as one of the most respected figures in the watch industry, all from his home in Northeast Ohio. Whether working with celebrities or everyday collectors, his passion remains the same: to share the beauty and craftsmanship of watches with the world.
For those looking to invest in their first quality timepiece, Teddy Baldassarre has a few recommendations. His top picks range from hundreds of dollars to several thousand, each offering versatility and timeless style. “We’ll call these everyday watches,” Baldassarre says. “For somebody who wants a watch that they could wear in a variety of situations.”
“The Hamilton Khaki Field line is a collection of watches that follow a field watch DNA dating back to World War II,” Baldassarre says. One standout is the Hamilton Khaki Field Murph, a timepiece made famous by its appearance in the 2014 sci-fi film Interstellar. Initially designed as a prop and never intended for public release, the watch gained a cult following.
“This is a design that goes back to the 1930s, and what it’s known for is its complication,” Baldassarre says. In watchmaking, a complication refers to any function beyond simply telling the time. The Oris Big Crown Pointer Date takes a different approach. “So instead of having an aperture in the dial that will show a disc underneath, this has a radial setup, with all the days of the month displayed around the outer edge of the dial,” he says.
In watchmaking, branding is only part of the industry; much of it relies on specialized suppliers that manufacture parts for different companies. What sets Grand Seiko apart is its self-sufficiency. “The Japanese were independent in their growth in the industry, compared to Switzerland, where they were able to have this bedrock of all these suppliers,” Baldassarre says. “They had to develop their quartz watches.”
Float tanks can offer mental and physical health benefits, and more and more of them are popping up around Northeast Ohio.
THE FIRST TIME I STEP INTO the “floatation tank,” I’m not sure what to expect. The idea of bobbing around in a pitch-black pod filled with salt water sounds ... odd. But within minutes, I’m hooked. Floating isn’t just relaxing. It’s transformative.
Floatation therapy, often referred to as sensory deprivation therapy, is a unique wellness experience that combines the benefits of Epsom salts, weightlessness and deep meditation. By floating in this zero-gravity environment, often in a soundproof, light-free tank, participants can experience profound relaxation and healing. The tank at True Rest Float Spa in Rocky River is filled with a few feet of lukewarm water mixed with a thousand pounds of Epsom salts, creating a buoyancy that allows users to float effortlessly. Once the lid closes, you experience complete silence and darkness. No distractions, just you and your thoughts — or lack of them, as it turns out.
“If you’re worried about claustrophobia, you can simply push the lid up anytime — it doesn’t lock, and you’re in full control,” says Jamie Fiore, chief operating officer of Soul Space, a wellness spa in Cleveland. “The hydraulic arm lets you lower it when you enter and lifts effortlessly when you’re ready to exit.”
At first, it’s a little strange. My mind races, and I feel a little antsy. But then, a calming sensation takes hold of me. From head to toe, my body slowly lets go of tension I didn’t even realize I was holding, and
Float therapy eases muscle tension and promotes mental clarity by creating a distraction-free environment.
Where to Float in Northeast Ohio:
TRUE REST FLOAT SPA 21643 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, 440-333-7378, truerest.com
STELLA LUNA COUNSELING AND WELLNESS CENTER
17951 Jefferson Park Road, Suite 100, Middleburg Heights, 440-879-8517, stellalunatherapy.com
SOUL SPACE
5605 Tillman Ave., Cleveland, 216-377-1786, soulspace.net
THE HIMALAYAN CAVE 9130 Tyler Blvd., Mentor, 440-290-0999, thehimalayancave.com
MYSTIC FLOAT AND WELLNESS CENTER
4612 Tuscarawas St. W., Canton, 330-915-6045, mysticfloatwc.com
my brain shifts into a calm, tranquil state. At first, though, finding the groove of the meditation. While the tank is a tool, it takes practice to truly clear your mind. But even those who have trouble sitting still can reap the benefits of the therapy.
After my first session, I feel lighter, physically and mentally. My muscles, which are usually tight, feel loose. Mentally, I am calmer, and I am able to sleep without my usual array of melatonin supplements.
Dr. Jacob Wolf, a naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist with University Hospitals Connor Whole Health program, says that float therapy can affect the human body in a handful of ways.
The Epsom salts (aka, magnesium sulfate) increase the density of the water to help you float. That zero-gravity environment takes the pressure off your joints and spine, allowing your body to naturally realign and heal.
“There actually is some data from that. The floating kind of gets rid of all the pressure,” explains Wolf. “The combination of the floating plus the warmer temperature of the water, and potentially the magnesium, can help [blood] vessels to dilate some and allow your body to circulate blood a little more easily. It can also help to regulate blood pressure to some degree.”
Wolf prescribes float therapy to his patients in a variety of circumstances such as athletes and individuals with muscle discomfort or arthritis.
“It’s kind of a general calming and relaxing experience, similar to someone who might go for a massage to relax. It’s a good option, plus it’s low impact,” says Wolf. “With floating you get the pain relief benefits, plus the relaxation benefits of pain relief as well.”
Without any outside stimuli, there is a decrease in cortisol production, the stress hormone. The result? Deep relaxation, better focus and, often, a post-float euphoric moment of creativity or clarity, Fiore says.
“There’s a lot of different medical benefits, but just the deep, relaxed state that it puts you in, the feeling of weightlessness and detachment from everything, is why I think float therapy is very unique,” says Fiore. “You’re in full darkness, no interruptions — just complete disconnection — which, in today’s day and age, it’s very seldom that we do that.”
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The Cleveland-born singer-songwriter is creating his own path in the music industry, now punctuated by a Grammy nomination.
To the world, an overnight sensation seems unexpected, but for Durand Bernarr, it’s the result of years of work. Born in Cleveland and raised in the Glenville neighborhood, he grew up in a musically inclined household. His mother worked as a music teacher at schools across Cleveland and was the music director at various churches. His father was an audio engineer who has worked with Whitney Houston, Beyonce, Rihanna and Jill Scott. His love for music grew in church, and he was also involved in theater at Karamu House. Bernarr’s career began at 16 when he went on tour with Earth, Wind & Fire as a production assistant. He then created YouTube videos of himself doing covers, dancing and commentary, and he began releasing music around that time, too. Since then, Bernarr has sung vocals for artists like Erykah Badu, Ari Lennox and Thundercat, and as of 2025, he is a Grammy-nominated artist for his own music. Cleveland Magazine spoke with Bernarr about his journey.
CLEVELAND MAGAZINE: How did growing up in the church play a role in your love for music?
DURAND BERNARR: We [learned] etiquette, knowing what [type] your voice is, knowing how to sing within an ensemble or a group of people, listening. You know, different nuances. And then when you’re having a moment with your friends in your own creative way, knowing how to lead that. Then, there’s theater, there’s drama class, there’s martial arts, poetry readings. There’s so many things that [take] part in all of this.
CM: What was it like being queer in that space?
DB: I had a few different church experiences. One [felt like] I was present, but I wasn’t aware of it when I was a kid. And then I felt like at one point, I wanted to have my own relationship with God. So my aunt brought me to her church. And that’s when I fell in love with gospel. That was the beginning of the struggle because now I’m kind of teach-
ing this to myself and writing a program of my own. It was interesting trying to love yourself while constantly being in environments that suggest that something is wrong or you need to fix who you are.
CM: Your NPR Tiny Desk performance went viral in 2023. You were decked out in the Proud Family costume, paying homage to Bobby Proud. What was it like to perform in a small intimate space like that versus for a bigger audience?
DB: I started out [performing] in small venues, living rooms, backyards, all those kinds of things. But [Tiny Desk is] enormous to me. And what made it work well was that I was on tour. And so, that was really just a condensed 17 minutes of my 90-minute show. It would’ve been absolutely unlike me to be demure and mindful on [Tiny Desk]. This is the first time [some people] were going to see me. I am about to cut up! I say all that to say that was an opportunity that I am so grateful for.
CM: That Tiny Desk performance really took off. It has more than 2 million views. What impact has that had on your career?
DB: Gabrielle Union knows who I am. Queen Latifah follows me. I’ve also realized just because someone doesn’t follow you, doesn’t mean they don’t know who you are. It is very gratifying to be acknowledged for the dedication to your craft and the seriousness that you take in your music and how you want it to make other people feel. The way I construct [my music], I want to make music you can’t escape. I want it to be deeply felt. Like when you hear “Sweetest Taboo” by Sade, you feel it instantly. When you hear Goapele’s “Closer,” [it’s] instant. I just want [my music] to feel past my ability to live.
CM: You’re now a Grammy nominated artist. Your EP En Route was up for Best Progressive R&B Album. You were shocked by the news. How did you find out that you’re a Grammy-nominated artist?
DB: I found out from a stranger on Twitter congratulating me. I was like, “Oh Kaytranada got nominated?” That’s what happened last time. The girls thought that I was gonna be getting a Grammy because I was a featured artist on a Grammy Award-winning album. And I got a participation certificate. They said “No, you!” And at that moment, I had just got in my seat on my flight heading to Houston. I couldn’t swear and scream because I was gonna end up on the no fly list.
CM: Looking back at your career, how do you think your sound has evolved?
DB: It’s been all over the place. I’ve really been on a search for my sound. And I think there’s been some consistency within there, like a little bit of comedy. You know, things like that. That’s always been in [my sound]. The “far left” subject matter, that’s always been there. The main thing that has grown and evolved is trying to simplify these melodies while also keeping them interesting.
CM: What do you want your new album to say about you? What will people learn about you from listening to this album?
DB: You’ll be getting a very sentimental side of Durand. You’re still gonna laugh, of course. You’re going to be getting warmth. You’re going to be getting compassion. You’re going to see a little bit of my anxiety. It’s all those things. I’m admitting how clumsy I am. And [you’ll see me] being frustrated. So it’s a lot of stuff that I feel just as a person who’s experiencing life.
“I want to make music you can’t escape. I want it to be deeply felt. I want [my music] to feel past my ability to live.”
JOHN RINALDI, CO-HOST : Dick Blake, who ran a dance studio, walked into the jewelry store where I worked and asked if I liked being a funny guy because he knew someone who could use a funny guy. Chuck used dancers from Blake’s studio and came to him and said, ‘I need a little girl.’ He said, ‘I got a little guy.’ And so I started doing the show. What you saw on the air really was Chuck. 1
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TOM FERAN, AUTHOR : He was really responsible for the things they remember Ghoulardi for. He was the guy who figured out how to insert Ghoulardi in movie scenes. It was a collaborative process. Ernie (Anderson) really brought the energy, but I think Chuck was a creative genius. He could have been big in the industry. Ernie wanted him to come out to Hollywood. He went out to visit, but he was comfortable here.
Four men who worked closely with Chuck Schodowski recall moments in time that epitomized Big Chuck and Cleveland.
Chuck Schodowski was an Army veteran, worked in a foundry and studied to become a Cleveland police officer. But Schodowski, who died in January at the age of 90, was known to generations in Northeast Ohio as “Big Chuck.” He was a fixture on Channel 8 initially as a producer who made appearances onscreen with Ernie “Ghoulardi” Anderson, then hosting movies on Friday night with Bob “Hoolihan the Weatherman” Wells and “Lil’ John” Rinaldi. The show was appointment television — even beating The Tonight Show in local ratings — and a pop culture staple. Following Schodowski’s passing, coworkers and fans reflected on his legacy. Cleveland Magazine spoke with Rinaldi and Wells, along with TV journalist Tom Feran, who co-authored a book with Schodowski and Carter Bays, co-creator of How I Met Your Mother and a Shaker Heights native.
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BOB WELLS, COHOST : Chuck was a director and had an engineering background. We put stuff on film and then on tape. One of the things we were proudest of was that Chuck wrote the teleprompter. Most people thought we adlibbed. Chuck wrote for me like I talked. It was like he knew what I was thinking. He never considered himself a performer, but he grew into it and was a natural.
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CARTER BAYS, TV SHOWRUNNER : Making [How I Met Your Mother], half of my motive was to slip in references that only a few people get, and by a few people, I mean the entire city. So I put in a line where this character says, ‘Do you get Big Chuck and Lil’ John?’ It got a good laugh at the table read. They were TV stars just for us. Big Chuck was the first Clevelander on my radar making television.
The architectural drawings are not always what the end product will be, but they can bring excitement, energy and direction to a project.
The outdated halls of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History were where my kids and I spent much of the pandemic. It was a primordial haven from the modern virus ravaging the world outside. Then, one day, the renovations began, and the bulk of the exhibits closed.
Trudging past the temporary construction wall, my kids and I would marvel at the large rendering promising a transformed, modern and sleek museum. There would be a large architectural feature that I could only describe as a swoosh, and massive glass panels showing the dinosaurs inside. We couldn’t wait to see the final product.
Thomas Connors, special advisor to the president and CEO at the CMNH, says that after more than a decade of false starts, those renderings were strategically placed by the entrance to send the message that “there is hope, and it is going to become this unbelievable community gift.”
Every time a big new construction project is announced in Northeast Ohio, flashy renderings quickly follow. Renderings get their own news releases, awards and media coverage. The images and 3D models are prominently displayed, and the public hopes that the final product will actually resemble the pretty pictures.
That held, when it came to CMNH.
“If you look at the renderings and look at the finished building and photography, sometimes it’s hard to distinguish between the two,” Connors says.
DLR Group architects Paul Westlake and Mark Morris were inspired by the glacial movements that shaped the region, culminating in a “liquid, alluvial and ice-like” design. Connors says the museum’s top brass quickly fell in love with their vision of “architecture in the name of science.”
The architects came up with several external renderings showing the building in different seasons and times of the day, as well as a series of interior renderings showing what the spaces would look like and how they can be used for a variety of events and alternate sources of revenue, like weddings, lectures and happy hours.
Renderings serve many practical purposes. Internally, they help inform the designs, making sure they fit within the constraints
of companies and customers. These set the guide for construction and the future.
of budgets, building materials and their environments. Externally, they help convince clients, city governments, regulatory boards, donors and the public that these projects are worthwhile and even worth investing in.
“The only way to really communicate with people that aren’t really trained or have the DNA of designers is to have very explicit, realistic renderings of the design intent and the intended usage,” Westlake says.
At the DLR offices Downtown, the walls are covered with renderings, a large TV screen plays animations of company projects and 3D models of notable Cleveland landmarks line the hallways. Renderings can cost between $500 and tens of thousands of dollars. DLR specializes in cultural institutions. If you’ve been to Playhouse Square, for instance, you’ve seen their work. In the back, a large studio space is available to make models out of 3D-printed plastics, wood and
other materials.
Westlake says that in the case of the CMNH, the initial rendering and 3D model were completed before they got hired for the job. They helped secure the project for his firm and then were used to help the museum fill an estimated $75 million budget shortfall.
“If we couldn’t get the funding community excited, we could never realize the project,” Westlake says.
Renderings don’t always preempt getting hired, but they are one of the first things that architects produce these days. That wasn’t always the case.
Michael Christoff, senior associate at Vocon, says back when they were hand drawn, architects would often be pretty far along in the design process by the time they had renderings to share. That required a great deal of trust between architects and their clients. Computer programs sped up that process.
“It’s pretty dramatically changed the way we can engage with clients and communities because we don’t have to wait anymore,” he says.
Being able to share renderings earlier allows clients and the public to have greater input in projects from the beginning.
“It’s throughout the entire process, and it’s right at the beginning, and it’s very, very accurate,” he says.
Renderings have also gotten more accurate, allowing people to imagine the buildings in a variety of rather specific settings. He recalled showing a snowy rendering of the Flats East Bank project to the Wolsteins family and getting pushback along the lines of “Wow, that’s a lot of gray.”
“And we’re like, ‘Yeah, that’s how it’s going to look when the sky is gray,’” he says.
We are talking about building in Cleveland, after all.
lous, known for its work on sports facilities, took its vision of “Cleveland architecture” and elevated it.
“They were able to take it and make it a reality, which is really where they become the artists and the experts in their field,” he says. Jonathan Mallie, global director and the managing director, Americas, at Populous, says early renderings serve as a “guiding light” for architects.
“We essentially fight for it for the rest of the duration of the project,” he says. “To make sure that we can deliver the drawings, the documentation, work with the contractors, get the pricing in, the schedule, ordering the materials, doing everything that it takes to orchestrate a building to deliver on that initial vision.”
The firm prides itself on final products that are remarkably accurate to their initial renderings. Still, Mallie says there is value in looking at renderings with a critical eye and using them to improve designs.
“The end product comes out better,” he says. “Sometimes we could go too far with certain things in the beginning, and we, too, see a value in pulling back here and there, making it more refined.”
In the Cavs facility, for instance, the windows on the final design will be slightly wider than in the earliest renderings. Much of the rest of the design, the rust-colored elements and the way it curves along with the river, will look the same. As for the waters, they will still not be Caribbean blue.
Peter Reuter’s Scorpacciata Pasta Co. lives up to the promise of the tattoo on his arm.
Growing out of a stall at The Van Aken District, Peter Reuter’s restaurant on Larchmere Boulevard delivers a refreshing take on pasta and pizza.
Long before he became a restaurateur, Peter Reuter had the Italian word “scorpacciata” permanently inked on his forearm. The technical translation is “big feed,” calling to mind a long table full of all your Italian relatives passing around homemade platters. Reuter connects to the word’s more symbolic meaning, which relates specifically to seasonal feasts. Scorpacciata refers to Italy’s so-called “zero-kilometer rule,” the idea that you don’t have to travel even a full kilometer to get all that you need.
“When it’s tomato season, you eat tomatoes all the time; in the fall, you eat from the harvest,” says Reuter, a Cleveland Heights native. “It’s about taking advantage of abundance — eating with the seasons and gorging yourself with the seasons.”
That’s now the objective at Reuter’s restaurant, Scorpacciata Pasta Co., which started as a food stall at The Van Aken District Market Hall in 2018. In August, he finally opened the doors to Scorpacciata’s full-service brick-and-mortar on Larchmere Boulevard. A sleek, 92seat dining room embraces minimalist decor, such as subway tiles and a live-edge wood bar, that gives focus to the food.
“When I found the word ‘scorpacciata’ in a travel guide years ago, I
was like, Oh my God, that’s going to be the name of my restaurant,” Reuter recalls. “Now, our mission statement is ‘abundantly, locally and in-season.’”
It’s understandable if the idea of a seasonal Italian feast calls to mind rich, heavy foods that beg you to loosen your belt midmeal. And, certainly, a menu made up mostly of handmade pastas and pizzas doesn’t sound like it should be fresh and delicate. Yet Reuter’s skilled hand and science-minded approach, paired with the depth of his culinary experience, make for surprisingly light flavors and appropriately sized portions that won’t weigh you down.
Take the potato gnocchi ($21), for example, a dish that’s too often dense and gummy. Scorpacciata’s version is the stuff of Italian grandmothers’ wildest dreams: tiny, pillowy and light as air, hand rolled and pan seared
Pasta Co. 13051
Larchmere Blvd., Shaker Heights, 216-279-9800, scorpacciatapastaco.com
for a bit of caramelization. It’s drizzled (not drowned) in a Gorgonzola cream sauce and topped with house-cured pancetta, aged balsamic, shoestring-sliced pears and the tiniest taste of truffle oil. But don’t be fooled by the seemingly small portion: As you savor those last few bites, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find yourself satisfied but not stuffed — all the more room for tiramisu. What’s not surprising is that this dish has become such a fan favorite that Reuter gets complaints whenever he tries to rotate it off his menus.
“I took it off the menu a couple of times at Van Aken, and I received many an email about how pissed people were,” he says. “Now, I try to run variations on it. I’ll add a vegetable, or I’ll remove the Gorgonzola cream in the summer.”
Reuter, a creatively minded Johnson & Wales culinary school graduate who was mentored by chefs Douglas Katz and Brian Linihan, works hard to strike a balance between what customers want to eat and what he wants them to want to eat. He’d like to push the envelope a little bit further than his recent menus, he says, but he’s giving diners time and space to ease into his ideas.
The two sweets on the menu — tiramisu ($8), served in a mason jar with coffee-dipped lady fingers, and cannoli ($6) — are both worth the calories.
Peter Reuter gets crafty, satifying his customers with twists that surprise them, while also opening their minds to new ways to enjoy his pastas.
“It’s hard for someone to order a pasta they’ve never heard of,” Reuter says, “so we started off relatively safe with dishes we know are crowd-pleasers. Now we’re trying to branch out, and in the summer, we’ll start adding in some things that people haven’t seen before.”
For now, that means slowly incorporating unexpected and even uncommon ingredients into some of his crowd-pleasing dishes — like cold pears with warm gnocchi or a pizza featuring roasted kale ($19) with plum tomatoes, shallots and hot honey. Even the most classic of toppings get a new slant, as with the pickled pepper and sausage pizza ($21). Rather than the standard Italian sausage and green peppers you’d get from a chain delivery spot, Scorpacciata’s gourmet spin features a slightly spicy house-made sausage that’s heavy on the fennel, with a vinegary pickled pepper blend made with whatever types are on hand: bell, banana, Serrano, jalapeno.
“When you order this one to go, you can smell the peppers from the pizza box before you even open it,” Reuter says. “It just has so much depth of flavor.”
Because Scorpacciata’s menu is so driven by seasonal availability, its offerings rotate regularly to highlight whatever is most abundant at any given time. Reuter likes to chat with his partners at Rainbow Farms in Madison and other local sources to see what’s coming down the pike, allowing the ingredients to inspire new dishes rather than the other way around.
That’s how he’s ended up with past specials like Campanelli pasta with parsnip cream and Killbuck Valley mushrooms or a pizza with marinated artichoke hearts, onion soubise sauce and lemon caper vinaigrette.
Pop in Tuesday through Thursday from 4-6 p.m. for specials, like crispy polenta fries with garlic aioli ($10) and giant, fluffy arancini balls in slow-cooked marinara ($12).
Of course, it also helps that by this point, he has years’ worth of dishes to pull from, digging into his Van Aken repertoire and making old ideas new again. But he’s always learning, too, whether he’s reading up on regional Italian cuisine or experimenting with new shapes of pasta.
“We want to be fine dining but in a relaxed setting,” Reuter says. “We’re not necessarily blue collar, not necessarily white collar. I just want everybody to be able to come and grab something simple or grab something complicated and always feel like they have options.”
Tamp down your type-A tendencies and take a chance on ample seating. In warm weather, arrive early to snag a seat on the patio.
Just six months in, the new Scorpacciata is building off its overwhelming success at Van Aken, garnering positive reviews and a warm welcome from longtime fans and new diners alike. Reuter looks forward to the opportunity to reveal all those many aces he’s hidden up his sleeves.
“I want to be the neighborhood restaurant that everybody is like, ‘This place is always changing for the better.’”
Meet Cleveland’s four 2025 James Beard Awardnominated chefs, who exemplify excellence in service, creativity and boundary-pushing technique.
THE JAMES BEARD AWARDS are to chefs what the Oscars are to movie stars. Outside of a Michelin star — a designation not available in most cities, including ours — it’s food’s highest honor. Ahead of the finalist announcements on April 2 and the award ceremony on June 16, meet Cleveland’s 2025 nominees.
Last year, the chef of East Fourth Street’s hottest restaurant became Cleveland’s first James Beard finalist for Best Chef in the Great Lakes Region since Jonathon Sawyer won the award in 2015 for his Greenhouse Tavern. The restaurant blends Midwest and Southern influences. TRY THIS: The Bellie Up ($90 per person) is a flexible tasting menu that changes every night. You’ll likely get bites of house favorites, though, such as the Burger Box ($22/a la carte) and the jojos ($9/a la carte).
With Todd Thompson, Katz has launched three restaurants since 2019. Zhug is a Mediterranean mezze concept in Cleveland Heights. Amba puts a twist on Indian cuisine in Ohio City. Kiln is an elevated American bistro in the Van Aken District. TRY THIS: Mix-and-match menus reward repeat visits. Smother Zhug’s flatbread ($7) in nigella seed and burnt onion hummus ($14), wrap Kiln’s beef tips ($33) in fluffy popovers ($10) or dip Amba’s spicy popcorn chicken ($16) in herb raita yogurt ($9).
La-Valle Umansky’s bread and pastry program earned its first Beard nod. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America’s Baking and Pastry Arts program, the Oklahoma native trained in New York City before working with Whole Foods Market. Similar to the deli, the bakery’s approach is to modernize traditional desserts with crowd-pleasing results. TRY THIS: The salty, personalsized pecan pie ($6) or the black and white cookies ($3) are worth your time.
Larder,
Since opening in 2018, the Hingetown restaurant has earned six James Beard nominations. Umansky’s modern approach to a Jewish deli centers around Koji, a mold-based fermentation process common in Japanese cooking. TRY THIS: You can’t go wrong with the standards: the thick-cut pastrami sandwich ($17) or the big-as-your-head fried chicken sandwich ($12), but with a dedication to local ingredients, the daily specials give you the full Larder experience.
Northeast Ohio’s top chefs share their local favorites.
Tiwanna Scott-Williams, a lifelong Clevelander, grew up inspired by her grandmothers’ entrepreneurial and culinary legacies. While working as a nurse, she launched PearlFlower Catering, blending family tradition with a mission to unite people through soulful meals. She’s planning a fast-casual Midtown location, offering elevated dining with a local twist. ScottWilliams uses the joy of good food to uplift her community. — CHRISTINA RUFO
GRAB AND GO Even though I’m a caterer, I love eating other people’s food. As a nurse, one of my favorite places to go was Aladdin’s. I love the grilled turkey salad. My other go-to, if I’m thinking local, was always Yours Truly or Grumpy’s Cafe. One of my favorite things is the Cajun potatoes from Grumpy’s. I really like to drink tea. I love a good chai, so for a boost, I love Ready Set Coffee (in Gordon Square).
FAMILY MATTERS For me, when I want to go sit down and have a great meal with my daughter, I’m a classic steakhouse girl. I love Hyde Park [Prime Steakhouse] and [Downtown’s] Blue Point Grille for nice, finer dining. But when we’re on the go, we like Cajun, Creole kind of foods, like Black Box Fix [in Lyndhurst]. That’s a staple. And we love Cheesecake Factory and TeeDeez Gourmet Kitchen [in Maple Heights]. I come from a food family where good food was just always a thing — not just at holidays but all the time. We love Le’ Scoop Dessert Boutique. It’s a traveling ice cream cart.
DECOMPRESS I like Spa Walden [in Aurora] when I need some time to myself. I have seen the new space [at MidTown Collaboration Center on East 66th Street] evolve over the past two years since we broke ground. There’s so many cubby-hole spaces where you can just sit and read a book or have a little meeting. So I honestly think, although my new restaurant will be in that space, that is going to be the space for me. It’s designed to be a community hub, but it’s so unique in that it’s an office space for some people. There’s a restaurant vibe there as well.
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WHY WE LOVE IT: Bringing a Downtown dining experience to Rocky River, Westsiders blends chef-driven American cuisine with a stylish, approachable atmosphere. The space features a center bar, warm wood tables, green leather-wrapped booths and reclaimed art deco-era panels and metalwork from architecturally significant buildings in Downtown Cleveland, adding a touch of historic elegance. TRY THIS: The menu changes seasonally with intentional detail. The pasta primavera ($23) is made in-house daily and served with campanelle, mushrooms and broccolini in a lemon cream sauce. 19880 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-488-9908, westsiders.com
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WHY WE LOVE IT: Since 1948, Bearden’s has been a cherished local institution, offering a nostalgic 1950s-style diner experience. The interior features classic blue chrome accents, vintage photographs and a toy train running on a track above, creating a fun atmosphere for all ages. TRY THIS: Go for the signature Peanut Butter Bear ($8.34), a 4-ounce steak burger topped with melted creamy peanut butter and sweet pickles — a quirky yet delicious favorite. 19985 Lake Road, Rocky River, 440-3317850, beardens.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: This doughnut shop crafts handmade treats daily, with both vegan and gluten-free options available. Flavors range from jelly-filled, chocolate and glazed, and there are no wrong decisions. There’s plenty of seating, fun artwork, a large front couch and an old wooden doughnut display. TRY THIS: The doughnut breakfast sandwich ($5) combines eggs, onions, peppers and cheese with your choice of bacon, sausage or veggies — all held between a baked doughnut bun. 19265 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 216-282-8228, bigmouthdonut.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: This carryout-only pizzeria brings an old-school vibe with black-and-white murals, neon signs and hand-painted window designs. Known for its signature Ohio-style pizza, the round pie's mid-thick crust has toppings that stretch to the edge, sweet sauce on top and a garlic oil drizzle. “We coined Ohio-style pizza when we opened in 2019. There’s no sauce underneath the cheese. It’s our own unique assembly,” says founder Nick Robson. TRY THIS: The brunch pies ($14-$24) are available Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to noon. The everything bagel-seasoned crust is topped with a cream cheese white sauce, scrambled eggs, cheese, potatoes, bacon and peppers. 19565 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 216-353-7777, ohiopieco.com
In Ohio Wine Country, spring is better by the lake. Escape to a shorefront hotel and private cottages where you can walk the beach and tee off at several public and private golf courses. Learn why Ohio’s original resort town is a natural in spring.
WHY WE LOVE IT: Since 1991, Danny Boys Pizza has offered a unique blend of Italian-American cuisine in a Frank Sinatra-inspired atmosphere. The walls are filled with fun memorabilia such as records, vintage movie posters, photos, bottles and more. The restaurant’s dedication to quality and consistency has made it a local favorite for decades. TRY THIS: The Woogie ($12.99) is an original that blends the concept of a calzone and a stromboli. The Abe Froman Woogie is filled with ricotta, five-cheese blend, Italian sausage, green peppers, onions and marinara sauce. 20251 Lake Road, Rocky River, 440-333-9595, dannyboyspizza.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: This upscale American restaurant is a go-to date night destination, blending casual comfort and elevated dining. Featuring reclaimed wood and modern lighting, this gem is best known for its impressive whiskey selection — boasting more than 300 bottles — alongside a stellar craft cocktail lineup and a three-sided bar. TRY THIS: Sink your teeth into a local, grass-fed Char Burger ($18). Or, indulge with the Char Mac ($13-$28), a build-yourown mac and cheese loaded with add-ins. 19337 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 216-712-4591, char-rockyriver.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: This cozy neighborhood cafe is a go-to spot for locally roasted coffee and fresh-baked goods. With blue walls, wood paneling and a wood-burning fireplace, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a latte. The cafe also supports local makers, hosting vendors who set up inside to sell handmade craft goods. TRY THIS: Grab your favorite coffee at Erie Island’s drive-thru and keep rolling. The specialty macchiato lattes ($6) are always changing monthly, with flavors like maple honey bun and raspberry mocha. 19300 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-333-1510, erieislandcoffee.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: Established in 1998, this brewery has been a cornerstone of the community ever since. A laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere blends classic charm with a modern craft beer experience. The brewpub's interior stays true to its roots, with exposed brick, warm wood tones and historic photos sourced directly from the Rocky River Historical Center. TRY THIS: The signature buckets ($11.50-$15.99) serve classic favorites. Loaded with a choice of crispy chicken tenders, saucy wings, mini burgers or chicken sliders, each bucket comes piled high with beer-battered fries for the ultimate shareable feast. “People ask all the time that they can take the buckets home, and I’m sure in the past 27 years, they’ve definitely been stolen,” says manager Claire McCaffrey. “We’ve thought about taking them off the menu, but we just can’t because people love them." 21290 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, 440-895-2739, rockyriverbrewco.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: This hidden gem bistro offers a tranquil, oasis-like atmosphere where guests can relax and enjoy a unique blend of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, handcrafted pho and desserts, as well as specialty coffee and teas. This spot is designed to be a comforting escape from the everyday hustle. TRY THIS: Start with a steaming bowl of signature pho ($25). The beef bone broth dish features rice noodles, three types of bok choy, sliced filet mignon and ribeye, cilantro, basil, sliced
jalapeno and a collection of herbs and spices. Indulge in a reishi mushroom coffee ($9) for a midday boost of energy and wellness. 19056 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-444-8827, instagram.com/gourmetbistro1/
WHY WE LOVE IT: Established in 1963, this Austrian-English tavern has been a cherished neighborhood bar for generations. This cozy spot exudes nostalgic charm, featuring rustic decor and the owner's personal beer
stein collection lining the walls. It’s the kind of place where community ties are strong, and memories are made over hearty meals that make you feel right at home. TRY THIS: Start your weekend with brunch, served from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays and Sundays. Or, stop in a different time for a classic Au Jus Herb burger ($17.99), topped with Havarti cheese and bacon jam on grilled sourdough bread with au jus for dipping and fried onion straws. 19925 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-3319870, facebook.com/herbstavernohio
WHY WE LOVE IT: Stacked sandwiches, authentic Lebanese cuisine and hearty daily specials have made Joe's Deli a Cleveland institution since 1994. This family-run restaurant combines a spacious dining area, friendly service and variety to make it the perfect place to gather with family, friends or business associates. TRY THIS: Indulge in the corned beef classic sandwich ($17.25), featuring tender corned beef piled high with Swiss cheese and sauerkraut on grilled rye bread. Looking for something unique? Try the Lebanese Delight ($16.25), a sampler platter with hummus, tabbouleh, two spinach pies and two grape leaves. 19215 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River, 440-333-7890, myjoesdeli.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: A family-owned staple since 1973, this modern Asian-inspired restaurant blends tradition with a lively atmosphere. The red seat coverings, hanging Asian lanterns and warm lighting create an inviting space for both casual dinners and special occasions. At the full-service bar, guests can sip
on Tiki-inspired cocktails like mai tais, zombies and the signature volcano drink, adding flair to the experience. TRY THIS: The General Tso’s Chicken ($19), a crispy, breaded dish coated in a semi-sweet, semi-spicy sauce and served with broccoli, is the restaurant’s most popular item. 20668 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, 440-331-0330, kingwahrestaurant.biz
WHY WE LOVE IT: Sakana stands out for its extensive menu that caters to diverse palates, including a full page dedicated to vegan options. The restaurant offers a vibrant dining experience that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese cuisine with modern Asian fusion. Featuring a beautiful bar dining area and a family-friendly main dining room, there is a notable selection of appetizers, wok entrees and sushi. TRY THIS: Begin your meal with the Heart Attack ($8) appetizer, which includes lightly breaded jalapenos stuffed with spicy tuna and cream cheese, topped with spicy mayo and eel sauce. For the main course, the Hi-Roller ($28) 10-piece specialty roll
has it all, with fried lobster, spicy crab salad, cucumber, soft shell crab, tempura shrimp, seared steak, tobikko sauce, yum yum, kabayaki and wasabi cream. 19300 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-857-0700, sakanacleveland.com
Want to taste, sample and experience the Best of Lorain County under one roof? Join us on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Lorain County Community College for the 2025 Best of Lorain County Party. More than 50 finalists will be on-hand to showcase what makes them a local favorite. Tickets on sale now!
WHY WE LOVE IT: This lively gastropub offers comfortable dining and brings the energy with cornhole, shuffleboard and more. With brick walls, wood-accented chairs, industrial lighting, plenty of TVs, a patio and a private party room, it’s perfect for game days and celebrations.. TRY THIS: The Old River Steak ($28) bursts with flavor, featuring a 6-ounce petite filet served over leek mashed potatoes with roasted heirloom carrots, crispy oyster mushrooms and chimichurri sauce. 19245 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-857-0399, tapandsocial.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: With red-and-white checkered tablecloths, exposed brick walls and warm wood paneling, this laid-back spot delivers nostalgic pizzeria vibes. Plenty of open seating and a sizable bar make this a perfect place for family dinners and game-day gatherings. TRY THIS: Start out with Stella’s Original Butter Cheesy Bread ($9), then dig into a deluxe pizza ($14.50) piled high with pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, green peppers, onions and black olives. 19071 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, oldschoolpizzaandwings.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: Celebrating 17 years, this Parisian-inspired bistro has candlelit tables, a cozy bar and a moody ambiance that's ideal for a romantic dinner or peaceful night out. The walls double as a rotating art gallery, curated by Hillary Gent from Hedge Gallery, with all pieces available for purchase. “You can literally buy the piece while you’re eating dinner,” says Sarah Migal, director of operations. TRY THIS: The restaurant’s namesake is an open-faced sandwich on a sliced baguette, with the chicken tartine ($23) featuring apple, cranberry aioli and gruyere cheese. The roasted dates ($15) and beef tartare ($24) are additional favorites. The menu rotates four times a year, keeping things fresh and exciting. 19110 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-331-0800, tartinebistro.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: This upscale, nautically themed staple has been serving elegant seafood and steak dishes since 1993. The distressed brick walls, crown moldings and signature mahogany bar blend traditional charm and modern sophistication. With blue hues and close attention to detail, it’s perfect for special occasions or an intimate night out. Reservations are encouraged. TRY THIS: The raw bar is a standout menu section. The chilled seafood tower ($49), features shrimp, crab and oysters Rockefeller. 19015 Old Lake Road, Rocky River, 440331-2739, salmondaves.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: This family-run institution has been serving authentic Neapolitan cuisine for decades. Chef Agostino Iacullo and his wife, Jill, built this beloved spot from a small carryout business into one of Cleveland’s most celebrated Italian restaurants. The warm, intimate dining room transports guests to Naples, Italy, where everything — from the fresh pasta to the signature sauces — is made with passion and tradition. TRY THIS: The Linguine Alla Sorrentina ($24) is a standout dish served with Gulf shrimp, mushrooms, fresh garlic, herbs and a light white wine sauce. Pair your meal with a selection of curated wine to enhance the authentic Italian flavors. 19070 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-331-3944, stinodanapoli.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: This spot brings authentic, from-scratch Thai cuisine to Rocky River, serving up flavorful dishes. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, its menu offers classic Thai favorites like spring rolls, stirfries, noodles and soups. TRY THIS: The satay chicken skewers ($10) are unlike anything in the area. The dish features grilled chicken breast marinated with coconut milk and curry, served with peanut sauce. 19900 Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-895-0098, thaicravings.com
WHY WE LOVE IT: This sophisticated yet inviting wine bar is a fit for everything from casual dining to special occasions. The interior blends modern decor with ambient lighting, high ceilings and cozy fireplaces. Seating is thoughtfully arranged to accommodate both small groups and larger gatherings, while the expansive patio offers a charming outdoor option. TRY THIS: For a light bite, try the baked brie flatbread ($15) topped with triple cream brie, goat cheese, roasted garlic oil, local honey and chives. 1313 Linda St., Rocky River, 440-799-4300, rockyriverwinebar.com
COMPETING IN APRIL
APRIL 5
Avon Lake / University / Walsh Jesuit
APRIL 12
Shaker Heights / Trinity / Westlake
APRIL 19
Lakewood / N. Royalton / West Holmes
APRIL 26
Every rookie needs his vet. Same as a professional mentor, the veteran helps the newbie find his sea legs upon the choppy waters of an NBA career. He shepherds the youngster through the ins and outs. He blesses the soon-to-be 1-percenter with holdover gifts and a little cash in the months before those first few paydays are realized, and yes, he asks for a favor or two in the meantime.
For Darius Garland, the Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star point guard, that veteran was Tristan Thompson, the big man who has spent 11 of his 13 NBA seasons in Cleveland. Through injuries and moments of doubt, Thompson has remained a steady presence in Garland’s corner.
By now, Garland, a two-time All-Star in his sixth season, is solidly a vet. The son of NBA star Winston Garland, who played eight seasons professionally, Garland’s abilities on the court were obvious from an early age, prompting his family to move from his hometown of Gary, Indiana, to Nashville, Tennessee, in search of better competition. By eighth grade, Garland was playing for his high school’s varsity team. His three Tennessee Mr. Basketball awards propelled the five-star recruit to Vanderbilt University, where he would play for one season before entering the NBA.
But the ball hasn’t always bounced his way. At Vanderbilt, he started hot, but a meniscus injury sidelined him for all but five games. Chosen fifth in the 2019 NBA Draft, the 19-year-old — the first player born in the 2000s to play in the NBA — joined a fledgling Cavs team that would go 19-46 in his COVID-abbreviated rookie season. Cleveland.com called Garland the worst player in the NBA that season. By Garland’s third year, he was named an All-Star for the first time and led the Cavaliers to a spot in the NBA Play-In Tournament. That performance earned him a third-place finish for the NBA’s Most Improved Player award.
Last year, setbacks returned. A series of injury woes included a head injury, nagging back pain and a broken jaw that required surgery. Garland missed 19 games and spent much of that time taking his meals through a straw while his jaw was wired shut. Off the court, he mourned the loss of his grandmother. Still, his respectable averages of 18.0 points, 6.5 assists and 37.1% from the 3-point line helped the Cavs reach the conference semifinals.
So, yes, Garland has earned his stripes, but there is one thing he has left to learn from Thompson — how to win an NBA championship. In his 11 seasons here, Thompson has given the Cavs great consistency, setting the franchise record in 2016 for most consecutive games played (his run ended at 447, the longest active streak in the NBA at the time). He played a major role in the 2016 championship, averaging 10 points and 10 rebounds in the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors. Most important, playing alongside Cavs legends LeBron James, Kevin Love and Kyrie Irving taught him what it took to perform at the highest level.
Now, Garland hopes Thompson can spread a little bit of that magic to help him bring the title back home to Cleveland this year. The Cavs enter the playoffs as one of the NBA’s best teams. Led by the Core Four of Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen and Garland, the team’s 31-4 start was one of the best in NBA history, and they stayed hot leading into April. More than any Cleveland professional sports team since 2016, this group seems primed to make a championship run.
But for Garland, it’s personal. It’s about making a statement to all those who doubted him: It’s revenge season.
Tristan Thompson: What has been your mindset coming into this season? You had the injury last year, multiple injuries, and that was probably a difficult time for you, just because how much you love the game and how much you love playing basketball and having that taken away from you. What was your mindset coming into training camp in Sarasota? Because everyone noticed that your demeanor was different. It was more like you had a chip on your shoulder.
Darius Garland: No, we had a lot of conversations about this. It was, quote-unquote, the revenge season. It’s a lot of people on the list that I wanted to get my get back, and a lot of people counted me out and doubted me from last year. So I just had that in my memory bank and just worked my butt off this summer. I was in the weight room a lot, trying to get my body back right. In the gym a lot, just trying to sharpen up my tools. But this year was literally a revenge season, just for all the doubters and the haters that just counted me out from last year with all the stuff I was going through. So this year, you’re getting a product from what everybody else was talking about last year.
TT: Correct me if I’m wrong: I think, as an athlete, sometimes it’s good to be in a situation where people kind of think less or doubt what your abilities can be. Because, I think, as we go in our career, you kind of need something to re-spark the fire, right? Tell me if I’m wrong, because you’ve had so much success in your career so far. Did having last year kind of — I wouldn’t say fall back in love but — make you, like, “All right, I got more in the tank.”
DG: Yeah, it was like a wake-up call, really. Like, you hit a wall. Now, what you gonna do after that? What’s the next move gonna be? Are you gonna push through this wall? Are you just gonna just lay here like a dead monkey or something?
Darius Garland has heard the doubts. There was talk he would be traded. Now, he is an All-Star on one of the top teams in the league.
Tristan Thompson is trying to guide this young team to a title.
TT: You can’t be a dead monkey.
DG: No, you can’t be a dead monkey.
TT: You can see DG, this year, he’s been very aggressive. He’s got a list of players, coaches, media, front office, everybody on that list. So, he’s dedicated and locked in. So knock him down one by one, like a cone. Bowling pins.
TT: When you step on the court, what’s your
biggest motivation? Is it looking at the opponent and outplaying them? Is it, you know, thinking about your family and you want to go make them proud, or is it a combination? Or are you out there just winging it? You’re just like, you know, see what happens.
DG: My first couple years, I was just going out there and winging it because it was just a learning experience for me, just trying to get my feet wet. But now, growing up, having some years under my belt, it’s really like, “Who’s my opponent? Who am I doing it for?” Which is my family. Always in the back of my mind, I’m like, “My family’s watching.” They really care, and they want me to do good. They want to see me do good, so I just go out there and just do it for them.
DG: Who was the vet who was there for you early in your career? My vet — big Tristan Thompson — was always great to me, even before I got drafted here. I known him before I got drafted here. When I was 18, he literally took me under his wing. I was out there in L.A. for pre-draft, and he put a shout out to me. Some good times. Some great workouts. Lifting together. Working out together. Spending time going to dinner together. Good fellowship.
DG: Tristan, who is the vet that you learned from early in your career?
TT: I had a good vet: Antawn Jamison. Antawn Jamison made a lot of
Tristan Thompson is using his 13 NBA years to provide insights to Darius Garland. Not all of the advice Tristan Thompson shares with Darius Garland is about things on the court. Some is off the court — possibly even some ’fit guidance.
money, and he was a great vet. You know, one thing about ’Tawn is that [the 2011-12 Cavs] were rebuilding. We stunk. We were horrible. But he always came in as a professional. Came in on time. Got his work in. Treatment. He did everything as a pro. For me, as a young kid, knowing that he was an All-Star at one point, seeing the dedication he had for a team that’s literally rebuilding and, like, literally serves him no purpose, right? For him to still be a professional [told me] that you can’t take this for granted, and you gotta really absorb it because things can change, right? Like me getting drafted here — they’re trading JJ Hickson, right? Because, you know, they didn’t think it’s the right fit. So, I understood the responsibility I had and what was expected. So I’m glad he was my vet. He always made sure I was good. He only asked me a couple times for requests: some candy, some wings. But then after that, he’d always give me an extra $200, $100. But the best gift he gave me was the [Kanye West x Louis Vuitton Red Dons].
DG: Reeeealllyyyy…
TT: Yeah, so he had a big Louis deal. Like, he had a Louis person that would give everything. He had every bag, every shirt, every pair of shoes. So I remember as a young boy, I was like, “’Tawn, I’m trying to get these Louis Don Kanyes.” He’s like, “Which ones? Show me a picture.” He’s like, “I’ll give them to you.” I’m like, “Yo, for real. I’ll pay
you.” He’s like, “I got you young fella. I’m blessing you with them.” I still have them until this day. I still rock them. Shout out to Jamison.
DG: He gave them to you? Because listen, them shoes are super exclusive.
TT: Anyone that knows the Kanye Louis Vuitton sneakers are crazy exclusive — up there, up there, top tier. So for him to give them to a rookie like myself, I was very appreciative.
TT: So I pay it forward, I think, because he was good to me, and I feel like I’m good to others, like yourself, because he was good to me. So when you came in, I’m like, I’m your little bro and, you know, you’re my rook.
DG: You were good to me. You sent me on a couple missions.
TT: A little sweat equity. It’ll come back around.
DG: You blessed me well, though. A little $200, $300 there. I got some good Uber Eats with that.
DG: Who is one NBA legend you’d play one on one with?
TT: Hmmm… Shaq. I’m so upset that he retired the year I got into the NBA because it was the lockout year. Shaq was like, “I’m not about to sit around and wait. I’m going to retire.” I was like, “Dang, I wanted to go against Shaq.” He’s heavy, though.
DG: How would you rebound against Shaq? You’re a great rebounder, but that’s a heavy guy.
TT: Big boy. My defense rebounding would be a zero out of 10. I’d have no
GOING STREAKING: The Cavs opened up the season by winning their first 15 games, setting a franchise record for not only the most consecutive wins to open a season but also the longest winning streak in team history. They followed that up with a 12game winning streak during December and January on their way to the top seed in the East.
FEELIN’ FROGGY: If you’ve been on social media after a win this season, you may have come across Froggy, an unofficial mascot of Cleveland Cavaliers victories. Froggy started dancing during the team’s winning streak to begin the year and never really stopped. Put on by the folks at Cleve or Leave, Froggy has become an unconventional symbol of success in Cleveland.
THE RIGHT KIND OF BLUES:
There hasn’t been much to make the Cavs feel the blues this season, but they did sport special light blue threads for six home games during the year. The uniforms were the team’s “City Edition” uniforms and were created in partnership with the Cleveland Museum of Art.
chance. But offensive rebound… I’m just gonna use some tricks, like push off his back. But, no, yeah, defensive rebounding, I have no chance.
DG: You still use that trick, too. I’ve seen that a little bit.
TT: Yeah, a little booster. Little booster seat.
TT: Who was your favorite player to watch growing up?
DG: My dad.
TT: Shout out Winston!
DG: Winston Garland the GOAT. Love you, pops. Kyrie [Irving]. Cavs legend, of course. Steph [Curry]… sorry.
TT: I’m over it now. Time heals all wounds.
DG: I watched a little bit of Dame [Lillard], and then, like, some older guys, like Isaiah Thomas, Steve Nash.
TT: I mean, those are all Hall of Famers.
DG: Facts. For sure. Some real dogs.
TT: But the realest one’s Winston.
DG: You heard it here.
TT: I don’t care about none of those other names. Winston, the realest.
DG: Pops, you a dog.
TT: What was the first thing you bought after getting your first NBA check? That was a big check.
“If someone got me on their fantasy team, they’re not going to do very well.”
— Tristan Thompson
DG: It was not.
TT: Well, it’s bigger now.
DG: Probably, like, five times bigger. The first thing I bought, I bought my mom a Range Rover.
DG: What about you? I know the check wasn’t that big back then.
TT: 2010-11 was kind of smaller. The first thing I did was I told mom to retire. Don’t work ever again. The first thing I purchased was actually in Cleveland at a car dealership, [Morris Cadillac Buick GMC, owned by] Robert Morris. I bought myself an Escalade. Back then, $60K, not much. Now, they’re $120K, easy.
DG: Sheesh.
TT: Yeah, inflation.
DG: What’s your craziest interaction with a fan?
TT: I’ve had so many, bro. After the [championship] parade, a car followed me home. He was, like, 60 or 70, an older man. He just wanted to take a picture. He knocked at my door, and at first, I’m like, “Man, what was this, like, a Jehovah Witness? ‘Are you ready for Jesus to come save you?’” But he just wanted a selfie. So I took one with him.
DG: At your front door, though?
TT: Yeah. At first I was going to knock him out, but I just realized he was old, but [if] he was like 40, I would have knocked him out. But 60? You gotta let gramps slide. But that was a crazy interaction.
TT: You probably have a crazy one, too, because you’re from the era of social media and TikTok. What’s the craziest thing anyone has ever tweeted you or DM’d you? You got any stalkers?
DG: Yeah, man. A lot of stalkers, especially with the sports betting. During the game, I heard a guy say, “Bro, you’re screwing my parlay.” I don’t want to hear about your parlay. Especially against Dallas, when I didn’t play a lot of minutes, so I got a lot of harsh words because I didn’t get to 20 points. If I went through my DMs right now, you’d see a lot of curse words. “You F’d up my parlay.”
TT: I don’t have those problems right now. You probably don’t want me on your fantasy team. If someone got me on their fantasy team, they’re not going to do very well. See, whenever you can make fun of yourself, you take back the power.
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 192 pounds
Birthdate: Jan. 26, 2000
College: Vanderbilt
Drafted: 2019. First round, Fifth pick, Cavaliers
Points Per Game (2024-25, career):
21.0, 18.8
Rebounds Per Game: 2.6, 2.6
Assists Per Game: 6.8, 6.7
Shooting Percentage: 48.1, 45.4
“Everybody’s been really riding our wagon for the regular season, and they really want to know what we gonna do in the postseason.”
DG: What’s one thing people don’t know about life as an NBA player? What does an average day look like?
TT: Usually we practice at 11 a.m., but I’ll try to get here an hour before. Get my weights in for about 30 minutes. Get on the court for 30 minutes. Practice starts with film. Coach Kenny [Atkinson] makes sure film’s not too long. About 30 minutes. Come out. We’ll do a little walk through. So that’s 10 minutes. D Mill [strength and conditioning coach Derek Millender] gets 10 minutes of stretching, because at the end of the day, we gotta get our bodies warm to be activated. God forbid, we don’t want nothing bad to happen to us. So we’re at about 12 p.m. now, and we start practice. As a veteran team like ours, practices are not too crazy. When I was on rebuild teams that… stunk, practice was way longer.
DG: My first year.
TT: Yeah, but I’ve had way worse. When you’ve been around the block, you see the tides go up and down. With our team right now, we’ll probably practice for about 90 minutes. So that gets us to about 1:30 p.m. Practice done. Hit some free throws. Get some shots up. You have about 1:40 p.m. Probably get a treatment, a shower. By the time you do all that, you’re probably in your car by about 2:30 p.m. Get home by around 3 p.m., then I have lunch ready for me, because I have a chef.
DG: Psh, big dog, been around. Big dog.
TT: Gotta keep this six pack — dad bod.
DG: Dad bod for sure.
TT shoots DG a look.
TT: Because Darius said that we’ll have two training camps now.
TT: So anyways, by time I’m finished, it’s
4 p.m. That’s it in terms of my day, but for me personally, I’ll watch some Martin for a couple hours, some Seinfeld, The Office 7 p.m. comes. I use my NBA League Pass. That’s free, by the way, because of our collective bargaining agreement. So I watch NBA until about midnight, and then I go to sleep and I do it again.
DG: Groundhog Day. What about game days?
TT: Game days are different. The day starts a little earlier. We have shootaround at 10 a.m., so I try to get here by 9 a.m. Go to shoot for about 45 minutes. So we’re about 10:45 a.m. Get some shots up. By the time I’m done with that, it’s 11 a.m. Go in the sauna for about 20 minutes because I like to try to keep my skin young and youthful and sweat everything out, you know, sweat from the inside out. You know, I’m trying to find the fountain of youth to keep up with you guys. I tell myself every day, “Don’t let the old man in. You let the old man in, you’re cooked.”
TT: By the time I get in my car and get home, it’s about noon. Chef has lunch. Then I’ll take a nap until about 3:30 p.m. Then I’ll get up, put on my Nike Tech Fit — because I only throw on nice outfits when it’s national TV games. Our staff knows I only put on ’fits when it’s national TV games. When it’s a regular game, I put my Nike Tech Fit on. I’m at the arena by 4:30 p.m. I’m on the court by 5 p.m. I shoot for 10 minutes, and DG comes. I dap him up, and he starts working out, and I go to the back to do conditioning. Told you, I try to keep my fountain of youth going. And then get ready for the game. And then after the game, me and DG, we figure out where we’re gonna go eat at. We can’t decide until 10 minutes before the restaurant closes, so we call, “Hey, coming in. Do us a favor. Stay open late.” “For sure. We love you guys. Go Cavs.” Then we’ll eat, and we probably won’t get home till about
Height: 6-foot-9
Weight: 254 pounds
Birthdate: March 13, 1991
College: Texas
Drafted: 2011. First round, Fourth pick, Cavaliers
Points Per Game (2024-25, career): 1.5, 8.4
Rebounds Per Game: 2.8, 7.9
Assists Per Game: 0.7, 1.0
Shooting Percentage: 44.0, 52.0
“The first thing I did was I told mom to retire. Don’t work ever again. I bought myself an Escalade.”
midnight, 12:30 a.m., and then that’s the end of the day for us.
DG: Do it all over again.
TT: So I think the toughest thing for us as NBA players is the travel. I think people don’t understand the fact that we could play a game at 7 p.m. By time we’re done, shower, get on the bus, get on the plane, land in the next city. It’s probably 2:30 in the morning, right? And imagine it’s a back-to-back. You play the next day at 7 p.m. Like, yeah, it’s easy playing basketball, but it’s not easy playing basketball when you have all the other variables.
DG: I think that’s what makes it tough, too, definitely the travel, especially in this weather now. You know, sick. Not knowing who’s in and out of the lineup. And you might get a plane delay here. Snow in the next city, can’t get out. So yeah, I think that’s definitely one of the biggest things that we’re going through.
DG: What is your least favorite city?
TT: Hmm... should I go arena or least favorite city? Because sometimes the arena energy is so bad. Those are two different things.
DG: Yeah, the arena really means a lot in the way of games.
Tristan Thompson was a key player in the 2016 NBA Final victory over the Golden State Warriors.
Darius Garland knows he has answered the critics this season. He also knows that winning the title would put the final stamp on his revenge season.
TT: Because, sometimes, we go to some of these arenas, and it’s like a preseason game. The energy is so bad. I mean, this season the name that comes to mind is the Charlotte Hornets. That basically becomes a home game for us. Oh, D.C.’s energy’s dead, too.
DG: D.C. Yeah, that’s my one, too.
TT: That arena has taken a hit. But back when they had John Wall, Bradley Beal, it was rocking.
DG: Yeah?
TT: Chocolate City was rocking for real. Now, it’s ghost town. The chocolate is all expired.
DG: They need Willie Wonka back. What about [Sacramento]?
TT: The arena is great. The city … Sac is basically Milwaukee in California. So that’s pretty bad. You’re paying California tax to live in Milwaukee. It’s Northern California, too, not southern California. It’s even worse. Like, no sun. They got, like, hay. You know, Phil Jackson called it Cowtown.
DG: For real?
TT: Yeah. So whenever the Lakers back in the day used to play there, they had the cowbells.
Shout out Sacramento. Congratulations, you are the Milwaukee of California.
DG: What’s the nickname with Sac?
TT: Sactown, but I call it Trash Town.
DG: Sack of potatoes.
DG: What about Portland? It’s depressing in Portland.
TT: Yeah, it’s a tough spot. It’s a tough spot on the road. I hear it’s great in the summertime, but unfortunately, we play a fall/winter sport. Everywhere is great in the summertime. A squirrel can always find a nut.
DG: What was it like to help bring Cleveland’s first NBA championship [over the Golden State Warriors] in 2016? What does this city mean to you?
TT: It means everything. When I got drafted here, the one thing everyone was always talking about was a 52-year drought with no championship. Of course, with the Browns going to Baltimore and winning [a Super Bowl], that hurt a lot of this city’s heart. So for me, the motivation was “Win a championship.” When we won, all I could think about was the fans. I remember meeting people, like, guys in their 60s, and they’re like, you know, in tears, saying, “Thank you. I’m able to be alive and see the city win a championship.” So those are the memories that I cherish the most.
TT: Obviously, Cleveland’s home to me. Been here since I was 19. I’m 33 now. So it’s been a long time. I’ve been around the block, and I keep showing up. Cleveland’s everything to me. It’s a part of me. It’s a part of my DNA, and
1:
That’s where the defense of the Oklahoma City Thunder ranks in the NBA this season — and by a wide margin. The Thunder won enough games to finish with the best record in the Western Conference thanks to MVP favorite Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a stifling defense that held opponents to the fewest points per 100 possessions.
32: The number of games the Los Angeles Lakers played this season between Luka Doncic’s team debut and the end of the regular season. The Lakers acquired Doncic in one of the most earth-shattering trades in NBA history. Now, he forms arguably the top duo in the league with LeBron James, and they’ve got their sights on a fifth championship for James this spring.
2: That’s how many times the Cavaliers lost to the Boston Celtics this season. For the Cavs to reach their goal of winning the NBA Finals this season, they’re going to have to go through Boston. The Celtics won the title last season and returned all their core pieces. The Celtics are still the odds-on favorites to hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy.
“My
took over the whole arena.”
— Tristan Thompson
I’m happy to still be here with you and watch you grow and blossom into the star that you are.
DG: Thank you, man. I appreciate it.
TT: How old were you when the Cavaliers won the championship in 2016?
DG: I was 16. A sophomore in high school. I definitely watched y’all run, for sure. That was a great run.
DG: What is your favorite memory from winning an NBA championship with the Cavs in 2016?
TT: My favorite memory is winning in Oracle [Arena], winning game seven. I remember the final timeout. It was like 1:20 left, and I think we might have been up three. Remember, I’m old. So my memory is a little fried sometimes. I think there was less than a minute left. There was a timeout. We were up, and I remember our section was like, “Let’s go, Cavs!” The Cleveland people literally took over the whole arena. And like, one thing about Oracle, the way that arena is set up, the sound bounces off the metal frame, so it gets really loud in there. And [the Golden State fans] were, like, dead silent, quiet. They were shocked. That was dope.
TT: The best thing is pouring champagne in someone else’s locker room, especially because they got us a year before. When they sprayed, that champagne smelled good. Smelled good in that Cleveland locker room. I wanted my lick back.
DG: I heard y’all left something in the locker room, like y’all had to come back.
TT: After game five, when [Le]Bron [James] and Kyrie [Irving] had 40 — go crazy. T Lue [coach Tyronn Lue] and Bron, they’re like, “Everyone put $100 into this pot, and we’re gonna leave it.” They left it in the ceiling and said, “We’re going to come back and get that money.” That was game five. So
game five, we win that, so [the series is] 3-2. Go back to Cleveland. Win game six, and then we win game seven. I don’t know where that money is. I don’t know if Bron ever got the money.
TT: If things go as planned, we should be in the playoffs and, hopefully, make a run. What’s your feeling about it? Obviously this will be your third playoff season. What’s your expectation? What’s your mindset going into it? How are you preparing yourself for that journey?
DG: You know, we’ve been in the playoffs for a couple years now, so the younger guys got a good feel for it. Got a good taste of it and know what the atmosphere and what the physicality and stuff like that throughout the game is going to be like. So just going in, just fully locked in on, like, details. I think that’s like the biggest thing for our group is just really honing in on all the details of the opponent that we’re going to be facing, learning everybody’s tendencies, knowing exactly what you want out of your matchup. How are you going to win your matchup for this playoff series? I think that’s what’s gonna get us over the top. We started the off regular season really great. Everybody’s been really riding our wagon for the regular season, and they really want to know what we gonna do in the postseason. So, we just got to keep riding.
TT: Is that extra motivation for you? Like, at the end of the day, we know who won last year, and obviously that’s the team that’s going to be in our way to get there. When we play a team in the regular season, are you almost, like, trying to get a feel for them? See what you can get away with in terms of where you can get your advantages so when we are in the playoffs, you can exploit it?
DG: It’s still the same mindset because I know that we will see them down the road, down the line, so it’s like you still have to keep that same mindset, but it’s really trial and error until you get to that moment, until you get to those big playoff games. Like, we change up different defensive schemes. We change up some offensive schemes, how we’re going to play our bigs, or how we’re gonna play me and Don[ovan Mitchell] together. So just a little bit of trial and error in the regular season, then we can go back and watch the film until April and May where we really have to dig deep, lock in on all cylinders.
TT: He’s dialed in. You can see it on his face. Revenge season.
DG: Revenge season.
Best Restaurant
Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail, Willoughby
The Last Page, Beachwood
The Pompadour, Fairport Harbor
Best Patio
Redhawk Grille, Painesville Tavern Six, Kirtland
The Fairmount, Cleveland Heights
Best View
17 River Grille, Chagrin Falls
Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens, Chagrin Falls
Vincent William Wine, Madison
Best Lunch Spot
Element 41, Chardon
Jim Alesci's Place, Solon
Luna Bakery Cafe, Cleveland Heights, Moreland Hills
Best Late Night Food
Barrio Tacos, Cleveland Heights, Willoughby
OVER THREE THOUSAND READERS WEIGHED IN on their top picks for East Side hot spots. Here you’ll find the finalists in categories from dining to shopping to services. Don’t miss your chance to vote for your favorites at the Best of the East Party on Thursday, April 10, from 6 to 9 p.m., at Eton Chagrin Boulevard. Finalists will be on hand to showcase what has made them a local best. All guests will be able to vote for their favorite finalist in each category. Winners will be revealed in the August issue of Cleveland Magazine.
The Fairmount, Cleveland Heights
The Wild Goose, Willoughby
Best Brunch
Brown Barn Tavern, Chardon
Sol, Willoughby
The Sleepy Rooster, Chagrin Falls
Best Organic Food
CLE Juice Box, Mentor
Sage Karma Kitchen, Willoughby
Two & Company, Chagrin Falls
Best Vegetarian
Aladdin's Eatery, Multiple Locations
Sage Karma Kitchen, Willoughby
Tommy's Restaurant, Cleveland Heights
Best Seafood
Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail, Willoughby
Pickle Bill’s Lobster House, Grand River
The Lobster Pot, Willoughby Hills
Best Sushi
Issho Ni Ramen, Sushi & Hibachi, Willoughby
Ninja Sushi and Hibachi, Mentoron-the-Lake
Pacific East Japanese Restaurant, Cleveland Heights, Woodmere
Best Steak
Heritage Steak & Whiskey, Woodmere
Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail, Willoughby
RED the Steakhouse, Orange Village
Best Independent Coffee Shop
Fiona’s Coffee Bar & Bakery, Willoughby
Heartwood Coffee Roasters, Multiple Locations
Rising Star Coffee Roasters, Multiple Locations
Best Quick Bite
Brassica, Shaker Heights
Jim Alesci's Place, Solon
Versare Cafe + Market, Chesterland
Best Ice Cream
Fairport Harbor Creamery, Fairport Harbor
Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream, Chagrin Falls
Mitchell's Homemade Ice Cream, Multiple Locations
Best Bakery
Evergreen Bakery, Chagrin Falls
Jim Alesci’s Place, Solon
On the Rise Artisan Breads, Cleveland Heights
Best Donut
Biagio's Donut Shop & Pizzeria, Eastlake
Goldie's Donuts & Bakery, Lyndhurst
The Mad Batter Bakeshop, Chagrin Falls
Best Smoothie
Be Smoothie Café, Willowick
Juicy Vegan, Cleveland
Ritual Juicery, Willoughby
Best Pizza
Geraci's, Multiple Locations
Pizzeria DiLauro, Chagrin Falls
Vero Pizza Napoletana, Cleveland Heights
Best Burger
Crowley's Dive Bar, Eastlake
Doinks Burger Joint, Cleveland
Pub Frato Gastropub, Chagrin Falls, Painesville
Best Wings
Knock Off's Grub & Pub, Willoughby
Mr. Lee's Bar and Grill, Perry
Winking Lizard Tavern, Multiple Locations
Best Mexican
Cilantro Taqueria, Multiple Locations
El Palenque, Eastlake
Los Arcos Mexican Cocina, University Heights
Best Italian
Flour, Moreland Hills
Mia Bella, Cleveland
M Italian, Chagrin Falls
Best Chinese
Abundance Culinary, Cleveland Heights
Ho Wah, Beachwood
Hunan by the Falls, Chagrin Falls
Best Farmers Market
Heart of Willoughby Outdoor Market, Willoughby
Miles Farmers Market, Solon
Shaker Square Market (North Union Farmers Market), Shaker Heights
Best Deli
Farmer in the Deli, Chesterland
Jack’s Deli and Restaurant, University Heights
Jim Alesci’s Place, Solon
Best Family Dining
Dino’s Restaurant, Wickliffe
Fairport Family Restaurant, Fairport Harbor
Yours Truly Restaurant, Multiple Locations
Best Wedding Venue
Aurora Meadows, Aurora
Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens, Chagrin Falls
The Madison, Cleveland
Best Day Spa
Reprieve Spa, Chagrin Falls
Salty Salt Cave, Chardon
Woodhouse Spa, Orange Village
Best Mani Pedi
Avanti Salon, Chesterland
Manifest Manicures + Mixology, Shaker Heights
Privé Nail Spa, Woodmere
Best Salon
Avanti Salon, Chesterland
EnV Salon, Willoughby
Dino Palmieri Salon & Spa, Beachwood, Woodmere
Best Dry Cleaner
D.O. Summers Cleaners, Multiple Locations
London Cleaners, Willoughby
Tide Cleaners, Multiple Locations
Best Senior Living
Judson Senior Living, Multiple Locations
Ohio Living Breckenridge Village, Willoughby
Rose Senior Living Beachwood, Beachwood
Best Car Wash
Clean Express Auto Wash, Multiple Locations
Outback Auto Wash, Painesville
Zappy’s Auto Washes, Multiple Locations
Best Fitness Center
Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland, Beachwood
Results Fitness, Mayfield Heights
RYZE+GRIND Fitness, Woodmere
Best Yoga/Pilates Studio
Cleveland Yoga, Beachwood
Flow Yoga Studio, Gates Mills
Harmony Yoga Studios, Willoughby
Best Chiropractor
Code Chiro, Mayfield Heights
Best Happy Hour
Agave & Rye, Woodmere
Burntwood Tavern, Multiple Locations
Cedar Creek Grille, Beachwood
Best Golf Course
Manakiki Golf Course, Willoughby
Quail Hollow Country Club, Concord
StoneWater Golf Club, Highland Heights
Best Live Music Venue
Beachland Ballroom, Cleveland
Grog Shop, Cleveland Heights
The Lyric Bistro & Event Center, Fairport Harbor
Best Brewery
Boss Dog Brewing Co., Cleveland Heights
Crooked Pecker Brewing Co., Chagrin Falls
Eleventhree Brewing, Chardon
Best Charitable Event
Fieldstone Farm's Chefs Unbridled, Chagrin Falls
Rescue Village's Woofstock, Russell Township
DJ's Hope's Bingo Nights, Willoughby
12200 Mayfield Road Cleveland, Ohio 44106
Phone: (216)795-2355
Morris Chiropractic, Painesville
NEO Spine and Sport, Solon
Best Interior Design
Amy Leighton Interiors, Chagrin Falls
Heartfelt Homespace, Painesville
W Design, Chagrin Falls
Located in the heart of Little Italy since 2010. Chef-owner, Gerti Memeti, specializes in traditional Italian cuisine.
Mia Bella Restaurant offers classic Italian as well as Mediterranean dishes. The extensive menu includes gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian options allowing for everyone to enjoy a delicious meal.
Best Jeweler
Alson Jewelers, Woodmere
DavEd Jewelers, Willoughby
Gino's Jewelers, Warrensville Heights
Best Pet Boutique
Barktown Willoughby, Willoughby
Pet Wants, Chardon
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming, Concord, Shaker Heights
Best Wine Store
Red, Wine & Brew, Chesterland, Mentor
The Wine Spot, Cleveland Heights
World Wines & Liquor, Mentor
Best Beer Selection
Heinen’s Grocery Store, Multiple Locations
Red, Wine & Brew, Chesterland, Mentor
World Wines & Liquor, Mentor
Best Florist
Flowers by Julie, Fairport Harbor
Mayfield Floral, Mayfield Heights
Merkels Floral Studio, Mentor
Best Garden Center
Bremec Garden Centers, Chesterland, Cleveland Heights
Lowe's Greenhouse, Florist & Gift Shop, Chagrin Falls
Petitti Garden Centers, Multiple Locations
Best Bike Shop
Cedar Lee Bikes, Cleveland Heights
Eddy's Bike Shop, Willoughby Hills
Mountain Road Cycles, Chagrin Falls, Chardon
Best Boutique
The Collective Rose, Chardon
The Helicopter Daughter, Mentor
Village Trends Boutique, Mayfield Heights
Best Men’s Fashion
Kilgore Trout, Woodmere
J3 Clothing, Moreland Hills
Ticknors Men’s Clothiers, Beachwood
Best Handmade Retailer
Made Cleveland, Cleveland Heights
Ohio Artisan Collective, Aurora
The Corner, Shaker Heights
Best Handmade Market Vendor
Chagrin Falls Candle Co., Newbury
Colleen Higgins Studio, Mentor
G.R.A.C.E. Elderberry Co., Willoughby
Best Home Décor
Etc. on Erie, Willoughby
La Bella Vita, Cleveland, Woodmere
W Home Collection, Chagrin Falls
Best Health Foods (Retail)
SweetBerry Fresh Market, Wickliffe
Trader Joe’s, Mentor, Woodmere
Whole Foods Market, Orange, University Heights
Best CLE T-Shirt Shop
CLE Clothing Co., Shaker Heights
GV Art + Design, Willoughby
Snakes + Acey’s, Cleveland
Best Consignment Shop
It’s So You, Willoughby
Passion for Fashion, Chesterland
UpScaleIT, Solon
Best Antique Shop
Antiques & Uniques, Wickliffe
Chagrin Valley Antiques, Chagrin Falls
FIG Chagrin, Chagrin Falls
Best Dance/Theater Instruction
Fairmount Center for the Arts, Novelty
The Fine Arts Association, Willoughby
Playmakers Youth TheatreMandel JCC, Beachwood
Best Gymnastics
Chalk It Up Gymnastics, Chagrin Falls
Eastlake Gymnastics, Eastlake
Learning Ladder Gymnastics, Northfield
Best Music Instruction
Fairmount Center for the Arts, Novelty
School of Rock, Highland Heights
The Music Settlement, Cleveland
Best Birthday Party Location
Adrenaline Monkey Adventure Park, Warrensville Heights
The Jump Yard, Eastlake
We Rock the Spectrum, Mayfield
PEOPLE
Best Chef
Doug Katz, Zhug, Cleveland Heights
Hunter Toth, Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail, Willoughby
Rusty Phillips, The Pompadour, Fairport Harbor
Best Bartender
Corey Conell, Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail, Willoughby
Jaret Tekavec, Tavern Six, Kirtland
Steph Fino, Knock Off's Grub and Pub, Willoughby
Best Stylist
Lauren Segler, Avanti Salon, Chesterland
Dayna Fine, Changes Salon, Chagrin Falls
John Anthony Marinucci, JaViv Uptown Hair4ce, Woodmere
Best Fitness Instructor
Josh Mekota, Results Fitness, Mayfield Heights
Miesha Wilson, NuLife Fitness Camp, Cleveland
Phil Weigel, PHYT CLE Athletics, Cleveland
Best Boutique
Dad Brag Photography, Solon
GraceHannah Photography, Mentor
Kim Ponsky Photography, Chagrin Falls
8027 Mayfield Road Chesterland, Ohio 44026 440-729-9008 avantisalon.com
Avanti Salon is an award-winning Aveda Concept Salon and home to some of Northeast Ohio’s premier beauty professionals specializing in hair, skin and nails
6494 Glenallen Ave. Solon, Ohio 44139 440-668-6783
dadbragphotography.com
Mike Cook at Dad Brag Photography offers glamorous, fun, and artistic senior photos for those who aren’t like everybody else. Now booking for the Class of 2026. Limited in-game sports dates available as well.
Multiple East Side Locations 440-729-2122 bremec.com
We invite you to visit one of our four Garden Centers for the largest variety of extraordinary plants, inspiring pottery, statuary and fountains, high quality landscape materials and expert advice.
2448 Fairmount Blvd. Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44106 216-229-9463
thefairmount.net
Full-service bar/restaurant. We are open 7 days a week till 2:00 am. We offer a beautiful patio as well as private event spaces.
sagekarmakitchens.com
IG: @sagekarmakitchen 440-946-2300 4051 Erie St. Willoughby, Ohio 44094
1941 Spruce Ln. Painesville, Ohio 44077
440-941-8148
heartfelthomespace.com
Erin designs interiors by incorporating Feng Shui, function, and aesthetics, creating beautiful spaces from kitchen and baths to living areas. Photography by Gabby Mae Photography.
THE LAST PAGE
100 Park Ave., Ste 128 Cleveland, Ohio 44122
216-465-1008
thelastpagerestaurant.com
At The Last Page, classic dishes are creatively executed with global influence, thanks to our passionate chefs. Every dish is carefully crafted in our scratch kitchen, using only the finest, high-quality ingredients.
4125 Erie St. Willoughby, Ohio 44094 440-571-5312 hookandhoofdtw.com
Hook & Hoof is an award-winning New American Kitchen and WhiskeyCentric Cocktail Bar located in the heart of historic Downtown Willoughby.
26001 South Woodland Road Beachwood, Ohio 44122
216-831-0700
mandeljcc.org info@mandeljcc.org
A Best of the East winner for years! The J has everything you need for fitness and wellness with all of your favorite workouts under one roof. Center features more than 200 pieces of cardio, free-weight and specialty equipment. Plus elevated indoor track, four basketball courts, indoor pool and showers.
12200 Mayfield Road Cleveland, Ohio, 44106 216-795-2355
mblittleitaly.com
This restaurant has been located in Little Italy since 2010. Serving traditional Italian and Mediterranean fare with professional staff and amazing drinks.
Multiple East Side Locations 440-426-5696 outbackautowash.com
Outback Auto Wash is a kickin’ Australian-themed touch-free car wash experience! Open 24/7, with appreciable customer service and fantastic deals on wash club memberships.
PROVIDENCE HOUSE
2050 West 32nd St. Cleveland, Ohio 44113 216-651-5982 provhouse.org
Providence House keeps kids safe and families together, providing free emergency shelter to children whose families are experiencing crisis, and support services to parents and guardians to help prevent foster care placements and enhance stability.
7548 Fredle Dr. Concord, Ohio 44007 440-867-2441
25 Pleasant Dr. Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44022 440-600-7029
pubfrato.com
For over 10 years, we’ve been proud to bring our award-winning food, drinks and staff to everyone who visits while making lots of friends along the way!
many more need
REPRIEVE SPA
7185 Chagrin Road, Ste. C Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023 440-672-4947 reprievespa.com
Reprieve Spa is Chagrin Valley’s organic oasis for the body & mind. Offering a luxurious five-star experience without the pretension, we’d like to invite you to come and see how we’ve earned 260 five-star Google reviews in just fourteen months!
15463 Chillicothe Road Novelty, Ohio 44024 440-338-4819 rescuevillage.org
Rescue Village is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides shelter, veterinary care and adoptions for homeless, neglected and abused animals.
23611 Harvard Road Beachwood, Ohio 44149 beachwood.roseseniorliving.com ROSE
Independent living assisted living and memory care in a loving setting, Rose Senior Living Beachwood provides maintenance-free living at its best within the warm, welcoming feeling of home. From first-class amenities to services designed around your preferences, you’ll love life here.
440-543-7777 sapphirecreek.com
Your wedding will be a memorable occasion at Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens with our modern, exquisite winery and extensive gardens that serve as the perfect setting. The photo opportunities at Sapphire Creek are endless. Additionally, you and your guests will be in awe of the amazing culinary creations and white-glove service. Our entire staff is geared toward exceeding your wedding expectations.
7185 CHAGRIN ROAD, STE. C, CHAGRIN FALLS, OH 44023 4406724947
38728 Andrews Ridge Way Willoughby, Ohio 44094 440-247-7200 tavernsix.com
The mission of Tavern Six is to offer our customers a superior local venue that is known for its great food made from fresh ingredients.
300 Park Avenue, #164
Pinecrest–Orange Village 440-210-5553
cleveland.woodhousespas.com
Woodhouse Cleveland offers massage, facials, body treatment, manicures and pedicures. Relax in one of our quiet rooms before and after your services.
Multiple locations throughout NE Ohio 440-792-4090 tidecleaners.com
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7am–7pm; Saturday 8am–5pm TIDE CLEANERS
Tide Cleaners is America’s #1 trusted brand in dry cleaning. We offer conveniences like same day service and home pickup and delivery. Download our app today!
8806 Mentor Ave., Unit D Mentor, Ohio 44060
844-927-9274
Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm, Sat 9 am-3 pm, Sun Closed zappysautowashes.com
Zappy’s Auto Washes offers it all with more to come including thirteen car washes, four detail centers, mobile detailing, retail store, gas store and an auto care center.
NEARLY THREE THOUSAND READERS WEIGHED IN on their top picks for West Side hot spots. Here you’ll find the finalists in categories from dining to services to shopping. Don’t miss your chance to vote for your favorites at the Best of the West party on Thursday, May 1, from 6 to 9 p.m., at LaCentre Conference and Banquet Facility. Finalists will be on hand to showcase what has made them a local best. All guests will be able to vote for their favorite finalist in each category. Winners will be revealed in the August issue of Cleveland Magazine.
Best Restaurant
Luca West, Westlake
Pier W, Lakewood
Sarita a Restaurant, Lakewood
Best Patio
All Saints Public House, Cleveland
Georgetown | Vosh, Lakewood
Wine Bar Rocky River, Rocky River
Best View
Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
Pier W, Lakewood
Summer Place, Lakewood
Best Lunch Spot
Boss ChickNBeer, Multiple Locations
Burntwood Tavern, North Olmsted, Rocky River
Joe’s Deli & Restaurant, Rocky River
Best Late Night Food
Barrio Tacos, Multiple Locations
My Friends Restaurant, Cleveland
Real Smoq'ed BBQ, Cleveland
Best Brunch
Astoria Cafe & Market, Cleveland
Pier W, Lakewood
Westsiders, Rocky River
Best Organic Food
Beet Jar, Cleveland
Cleveland Vegan, Lakewood
TownHall, Cleveland
Best Vegetarian
Aladdin's Eatery, Multiple Locations
Cleveland Vegan, Lakewood
The Root Cafe, Lakewood
Best Seafood
Ibiza Mediterranean Restaurant, Avon Lake
Pier W, Lakewood
Salmon Dave's, Rocky River
Best Sushi
Blue Sushi Sake Grill, Westlake
Ginko Restaurant, Cleveland
Hako, Lakewood
Best Steak
Cabin Club, Westlake
Steak Cleveland, Cleveland
Strip Steakhouse, Avon
Best Coffee Shop
Emilie's Coffee House & Wine Bar, Avon Lake
Mojo's Coffee and More, Bay Village
Goodkind Coffee, Lakewood
Best Quick Bite
Brassica, Westlake
Gingham Market, Lakewood
Niko's, Multiple Locations
Best Ice Cream
Honey Hut Ice Cream, Multiple Locations
Mason's Creamery, Cleveland
Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream, Multiple Locations
Best Bakery
Blackbird Baking Company, Lakewood
Fragapane Bakery, Bay Village, North Olmsted
Michael Angelo's Bakery, Broadview Heights
Best Donuts
Becker's Donuts & Bakery, Fairview Park
Brewnuts, Cleveland
Jack Frost Donuts, Cleveland
Best Smoothie
Cleveland Vegan, Lakewood
Pulp Juice & Smoothie Bar, Multiple Locations
Restore Cold Pressed, Cleveland
Best Pizza
Angelo's Pizza, Lakewood
Il Rione Pizzeria, Cleveland
Ohio Pie Co., Rocky River
Best Burger
Buckeye Beer Engine, Lakewood
Gunselman's Tavern, Fairview Park
Heck's Cafe, Avon, Cleveland
Best Wings
Around the Corner Saloon & Cafe, Lakewood
Boss ChickNBeer, Multiple Locations
ZZ's Big Top, Avon
Best Mexican
Cozumel, Multiple Locations
Don Ramon Mexican Restaurant, Parma Heights, Westlake
Cilantro Taqueria, Multiple Locations
Best Italian
Bar Italia, Lakewood
Luca West, Westlake
Molto Bene Italian Eatery, Lakewood
Best Chinese
Dragon Tower, Cleveland
King Wah, Rocky River
Plum Asian Fare and Sushi, Avon Lake
Best Farmers Market
Crocker Park Market (North Union Farmers Market), Westlake
Kamm's Corners Farmers Market, Cleveland
West Side Market, Cleveland
Best Deli
Joe’s Deli & Restaurant, Rocky River
Larder Delicatessen & Bakery, Cleveland
TJ's Butcher Block & Deli, Lakewood
Best Family Dining
Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
Bearden's, Rocky River
Joe’s Deli & Restaurant, Rocky River
SERVICES
Best Wedding Venue
Columbia Ballroom, Columbia Station
Georgetown | Vosh, Lakewood
The Elliot, Cleveland
Best Day Spa
Holistic Halo Salt Spa, North Royalton
Spa West, Westlake
Woodhouse Spa, Rocky River
Best Mani Pedi
Glossy Nails, Lakewood
Sacred Hour, Lakewood, Rocky River
Shirley Vu Nails, Rocky River
Best Salon
Charles Scott Salons and Spas, Avon, Rocky River
Foxy a Salon, Lakewood
Tease Salon, Middleburg Heights
Best Dry Cleaner
Katie's Clean and Green Laundry Center, Lakewood
Ridge Cleaners, Multiple Locations
Tide Cleaners, Multiple Locations
Best Senior Living
O'Neill Healthcare, Multiple Locations
Rose Senior Living, Avon
Vitalia Senior Living, Multiple Locations
Best Car Wash
Blue Falls Car Wash, Multiple Locations
Jerry Kuhn's Kwik Car Wash, Parma Heights
Sgt. Clean Car Wash, Multiple Locations
Best Fitness Center
Cycle Fly, Lakewood
Fitness Center at UH Avon
Health Center, Avon
Tremont Athletic Club, Cleveland
Best Yoga/Pilates Studio
Cultivate Yoga, Avon, Lakewood
Inner Bliss Yoga Studio, Rocky River, Westlake
Vital Pilates & Wellness Bar, Lakewood
Best Chiropractor
Great Lakes Health and Wellness, Cleveland, Westlake
Russell Chiropractic, Lakewood
The Healthiest You Chiropractic Center, Strongsville
Best Interior Design
Avenue Home, Lakewood
Ducy Design, Westlake
Sapphire Pear, Rocky River
Best Happy Hour
Bistro 83, North Ridgeville
Georgetown | Vosh, Lakewood
Luca West, Westlake
Best Golf Course
Big Met Golf Course, Fairview Park
Bob-O-Link Golf Course, Avon
Sweetbriar Golf Club, Avon Lake
Best Live Music Venue
Mahall's, Lakewood
Music Box Supper Club, Cleveland
The Winchester Music Tavern, Lakewood
Best Brewery
Fat Head's Brewery, Middleburg Heights, North Olmsted
Great Lakes Brewing Co., Cleveland
Lorain Brewing Company and Event Center, Lorain
Best Charitable Event
Beck Center for the Arts' Spotlight Gala, Lakewood
Prayers From Maria's Sunflower Wine Festival, Rocky River
American Made. Better Quality. Family Value Pricing. Custom Options.
Find practical and pretty products for your home and garden at Lehman’s. Stay. Dine. Shop. Relax.
• Cultural Experiences
• Scenic Beauty
• Delicious Local Cuisine
• Handcrafted Goods and Shopping
Love for chocolate spans generations. Discover decadence at Coblentz Chocolate Company.
Providence House's Deck the House, Cleveland
Best Jeweler
Broestl & Wallis, Lakewood
Kleinhenz Jewelers, Westlake
Peter & Co. Jewelers, Avon Lake
Best Pet Boutique
Luca's Barkery, Cleveland
Style Mutt, Cleveland
The Grateful Dog Bakery, North Ridgeville
Best Florist
Blossom Flower Bar, Lakewood
Precious Petals, Columbia Station
Urban Orchid, Cleveland
Best Garden Center
Gale's Westlake Garden Center, Westlake
Lakewood Garden Center, Lakewood
Petitti Garden Centers, Multiple Locations
Best Wine Store
Minotti's Wine & Spirits, Multiple Locations
Red, Wine & Brew, Westlake
Rozi's Wine House, Lakewood
Best Beer Selection
1 Stop Beverage, Avon
Rozi's Wine House, Lakewood
Simone's Beverage, Lakewood
Best Bike Shop
Beat Cycles, Lakewood
Eddy's Bike Shop, North Olmsted, Rocky River
Marty's Cycle Center, Avon Lake
Best Boutique
Eleanor and Hobbs, Rocky River
Estella Boutique, Westlake
Knuth's, Westlake
Best Men’s Fashion
Ford's Clothier, Rocky River
Geiger’s, Lakewood
Sartorial, Cleveland
Best Home Décor
Avenue Home, Lakewood
Mishi Lifestyle, Lakewood
Wild Iris Home, Avon
Best Health Foods (Retail)
Lucky's Market, Cleveland
Nature's Oasis, Lakewood
Whole Foods Market, Rocky River
Best CLE T-Shirt Shop
CLE Clothing Co., Westlake
GV Art + Design, Lakewood
Only in Clev, Cleveland
Best Consignment Shop
Chelsea's Consignments, Westlake
Consign Home Couture, Westlake
River Trading Co., Rocky River
Best Antique Shop
All Things for You, Cleveland
Cleveland Curiosities, Lakewood
Flower Child, Cleveland
Best Handmade Retailer
78th Street Studios, Cleveland
Talents, Avon Lake
The Rift Shop, Olmsted Falls
Best Handmade Market Vendor
Basil & Rex, Cleveland
Black Dragon Designs, Cleveland
Serene Design Co., Cleveland
Best Dance/Theater Instruction
Above the Barre, Berea
Beck Center for the Arts, Lakewood
North Royalton Dance Academy, North Royalton
Best Gymnastics
Above the Barre, Berea
Great Lakes Gymnastics, Avon Lake
Little Stars Gymnastics, Middleburg Heights
Best Music Instruction
Beck Center for the Arts, Lakewood
The Music Settlement, Cleveland
School of Rock, Strongsville, Westlake
Best Birthday Party Location
Malley's Chocolates, Multiple Locations
Scene75 Entertainment Center, Brunswick
Swings-N-Things Fun Park, Olmsted Falls
PEOPLE
Best Chef
Cory Kobrinski, Astoria Cafe & Market, Cleveland
Doug Katz, Amba, Cleveland
Jeremy Umansky, Larder
Delicatessen & Bakery, Cleveland
Best Bartender
Callie Paul, Bartenza, Strongsville
Katie Barto, All Saints Public House, Cleveland
Jeff Gresko, Bistro 83, North Ridgeville
Best Stylist
Alicia Casshie, Edge and Elegance, Middleburg Heights
Christine Dopoulos, Foxy a Salon, Lakewood
Louie Leonetti, Illuminate Salon, Lakewood
Best Fitness Instructor
Leland Coffey, Tremont Athletic Club, Cleveland
Tori Hvizda, TFIT Studio, Rocky River
Liz Gonzalez, Vital Pilates & Wellness Bar, Lakewood
Best Photographer
JToth Art, Cleveland
Tom Apathy Photography, Parma
Leigh Roth Photography, Westlake
36033 Westminister Ave. North Ridgeville, Ohio 44039 440-353-2828 bistro83.com
Mon-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11 am- 10 pm Happy Hour In The Bar Mon-Sat 3pm-6pm
Since opening its doors in 2013, the award-winning Bistro 83’s knowledgable and well-trained staff has strived to make every customer’s dining experience a special one. Located on the border of North Ridgeville and Avon, Bistro 83 wants its guests to experience upscale dining in a laid back, comfortable atmosphere.
19025 Old Lake Road, Rocky River 440-333-7994
34970 Detroit Road, Avon 440-899-1957 charlesscott.com
Take time for you! Self care is not an indulgence, it’s a necessity. Whether its a brow wax, haircut or day of beauty, Charles Scott Salons & Spas helps people to reconnect with taking care of themselves. At Charles Scott, you are given that escape.
33200 Health Campus Blvd. Avon, OH 44011 Avon.RoseSeniorLiving.com (440) 797-3916
25043 Tricia Drive Westlake, Ohio 44145 440-340-3600 ducydesign.com Mon-Fri 9 am–5 pm info@ducydesign.com
Ducy Design is a full-service interior design firm passionate about delivering custom residential and hospitality design solutions for renovations and new construction.
1415 Kenilworth Ave, Cleveland, Ohio 44113 216-200-8506 theelliotcle.com
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Figuring out the ever-changing, complex college admissions environment is no easy feat. Some families are layering on the counseling services.
BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE
FAFSA, CCP, AP, ACT, CSS, ED. Does all this alphabet soup sound familiar?
Just when you thought deciphering brain rot slang was a losing battle, there’s a whole world of college readiness and admissions vernacular to master in a hurry — before those application deadlines.
School guidance offices are equipped to help students and families navigate the process. Some contract with nonprofits like Lake-Geauga Educational Assistance Foundation (LEAF), which offers a menu of advising services, or College Now, which provides financial aid application workshops and college counseling.
Some families add a layer of concierge college prep to the mix with a consultant who steers the process, from essay coaching and rigorous college searches to finetuning applications and lending insight into how schools are selecting candidates.
So, does your kid need an IEC who’s a CEP? (That’s short for independent educational consultant and certified education planner.)
‘The kids owned the process’
The Rollinson family decided to hire private help beyond school counselors to alleviate some pressure — and it did. “I felt so far removed from the college process. I didn’t know how to help or approach it for either of my kids,” says Megan Rollinson of her daughter, who attended Hathaway Brown and is now a freshman at Wake Forest University, and her son, a senior at University School.
Besides, who wants help from mom and dad?
“I didn’t dare suggest a school because then it would be off the list,” Rollinson quips.
A Google search for college consultants turned up Barbara Pasalis, CEP, and Taz Pasalis of Westlake-based Northcoast Educational Consulting. Barbara has personally visited more than 300 campuses and begins each student’s engagement with personality testing and career assessments. “I get to know them better so I can guide them,” says Barbara. “They learn about themselves, as well, and it helps them articulate their mes-
sage in essays much more clearly.”
Hiring an IEC is no guarantee for a Harvard acceptance letter or full-ride athletic scholarship.
“And if a counselor says, ‘Do this extracurricular and you’ll get in,’ that’s not true,” says Barbara, who estimates 85% of her student clients attend private and independent schools. “There is no magic activity that guarantees a student will get in.”
She says there’s more to college readiness than preparing to submit applications.
“It’s a time of self-discipline and discovering your strengths, talents and areas that need improvement,” she adds.
Students gain confidence and shed some of the roiling anxiety that goes with the emotional rollercoaster of applying and getting into college, she says.
“It takes a layer of pressure off parents, and that’s a big benefit,” Barbara notes.
Rollinson adds of their family’s experience: “The kids owned the process, which was great.”
They set up appointments with Barbara
directly and researched school options on their own with her guidance. “I didn’t feel like I had to constantly ride them because they were on it.”
Knowing the ins and outs of college programs helped Rollinson’s daughter, Isla, land on a campus that suited her as a student interested in business but not completely decided. “With some of the schools she was initially interested in, you have to apply as a freshman to business school and it’s harder to get in as a sophomore,” she relates “So, we were able to better navigate that.”
Rollinson sees the value in being an independent consultant. “It’s a very family-centric decision and depends on the dynamics of your kids,” she adds, noting that some of her kids’ peers were working with a private counselor but not most.
‘We’ll help anyone’
Most families do not enlist in an IEC, and while the individualized care and in-depth consultation is a benefit, there are free resources families can access such as LEAF and College Now, along with leveraging school programs and in-building guidance counselors.
LEAF and College Now partner with schools that contract with them to deliver service hours in the building. Students attending schools not engaged by the nonprofits also can get help with FAFSA, finding scholarships, completing essays, searching for post-secondary options and understanding financial aid award letters.
“A lot of people are shocked that we offer our services for free, but as a nonprofit, we have grant funding and school contracts that make this possible,” says Liz Brainard, LEAF’s advisory director. The organization’s main office is within Lakeland Community College.
“We expanded our knowledge base so we can help students with two-year community college and branch campuses, trade school options, workforce training and connect them to military recruiters,” Brainard says.
Navigating financial aid is a big part of LEAF’s assistance, Brainard adds, pointing to the FAFSA and College Scholarship Search (CSS) profile for highly selective schools that are well endowed and have different formulas for awarding need-based aid and grants.
“We help students understand what
schools might be a good fit and student profiles that schools want to see,” Brainard adds.
College Now also contracts with schools as an additional resource, and like LEAF, any student and family can take advantage of its advising through its “get help from College Now” link. Appointments are available in person at its Post Office Plaza Cleveland location or by Zoom, and at partnering organizations like Cleveland Food Bank and local libraries, where College Now hosts workshops.
College Now works with students beginning as early as seventh grade, says Cathy Graham, one of its senior college and career advisors. As for FAFSA workshops, “It’s not just for seniors in high school — we’ll help anyone complete the application,” she says.
‘It’s a journey’
Throughout the year, Shaker Heights High School holds college readiness programs for students and families who are figuring out pathways to post-secondary options.
The message: You’re not alone, and help is on the way.
One spring panel session includes college admissions counselors. “We’ve had guests from Duke to Case to Ohio State,” says Shaunna Bonner, department chair of school counseling at Shaker Heights. “Our counselors engage them in questions about admissions and we have breakout sessions.”
Topics have covered the NCAA pathway, students exploring arts and Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU). Students book individualized meetings with the guidance office, and its College Now partnership includes an annual campus tour. This year’s destination is University of Dayton and Ohio Wesleyan University.
The purpose is to educate students on how to carry out a successful campus visit and engage admissions offices on any campus, Bonner says. “We also took a group of students to a college fair at Kent State and did prep work — learning to walk up to tables, shaking hands, asking questions and getting comfortable with these conversations,” she adds.
Personal advising sessions for seniors and their parents are booked throughout the school year, and College Now assists with the CSS profile, FAFSA and college applications.
Tap into additional free resources to guide the college-bound process.
READ: LEAF’s Liz Brainard suggests this book: Who Gets In and Why: A Year Inside College Admissions by Jeffrey Selingo. A higher-education journalist offers a look from inside the admissions office with strategies to aid the college search.
WATCH: Curious about how an Independent Educational Consult (IEC) can help — and looking for some free advice? Check out the podcast, Your College-Bound Kid. Its co-hosts are IECs, and the podcast is steered by a mom who’s been through the process and a seasoned former admission counselor.
GO: Attend one of College Now’s community-based programs and complete a FAFSA on the spot with assistance. Workshops also include ACT/SAT test prep and academic advising. LEAF also offers these services, along with a technical career toolkit and virtual info sessions.
Bonner has worked alongside indepen dent consultants, which she says is becom ing more common. “When we know upfront, we can work collaboratively and maximize the resource for families.”
This is the approach the Rollinsons took, and she felt her kids assumed more ac countability with an “intensive” support from Barbara Pasalis plus school check-ins.
Bonner says when families seek greater support the guidance office can carve out weekly check-ins. “It’s a journey, take it step by step,” she encourages.
“The students who want the most help get the most help,” Graham adds. “So, encour age your student to connect with resources and take advantage of them.”
SCHEDULE VISIT TODAY
BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE
Twice a week, senior Ei Mon Thura logs on to a Zoom-based, fully immersive plant genomics and proteomics course. Case Western Reserve University is running a three-year pilot project to figure out how and whether to leverage online learning at the undergraduate level, following the all-in pandemic approach and resulting hybrid options.
Thura attended high school in Hong Kong during the thick of the viral outbreak. Her international school’s students lived all over the globe, so login times for synchronous courses were “really strange,” she says. “Some classes would start at midnight and others at 7 a.m.,” she relates.
Labs were odd for Thura, a biology major.
By the time she landed on Case’s campus, some fall 2020 classes were in person, other classes were hybrid and even some of those labs were held digitally with the help of souped-up software.
Now, the question is, “How should we proceed in a thoughtful way and continue to experiment with online options,” says Peter
Shulman, associate provost for curriculum.
Before COVID-19, Case had explored online courses with its undergraduate summer programs. Across Northeast Ohio universities, some graduate programs had already been successfully implemented online to accommodate experienced learners with jobs, kids and commutes.
With undergrad, Shulman says, “Our M.O. was to proceed cautiously.”
As with work, school and life in general, the pandemic jolted the world into online platforms. Today, Case and other post-secondary institutions are taking a practiced approach to navigating today what works online, what doesn’t and how to deliver the experiences students and families expect across campuses.
Expectations vary considerably
“At John Carroll, we are fully committed to in person learning for our undergraduate students,” says Bonnie Gunzenhauser, vice president for academic affairs.
“Mastering skills and bodies of knowl-
edges is a core part, but so is learning how to interact socially, professionally, developing your network, finding you mentors and having curated opportunities to engage with the world of work,” she says.
But pandemic online learning taught John Carroll lots of pedagogical lessons, and the university adapted its curriculum, which is all in-person for undergrads. “There was a move for students to acquire content knowledge on their own and use time together in class to practice and interact with professors to move more toward mastery,” Gunzenhauser says.
“We realized something we already knew — people learn in different ways,” She adds, “and having a chance to see this play out during the pandemic sparked new approaches and modes of engagement inside and outside the class.”
‘It’s a different experience online’ “You have to work a little harder to be engaged online,” says Karen Miller, provost for Cuyahoga Community College.
Tri-C built tools to virtually connect students to support service and spark conversations among students.
“We offer clubs and organizations that meet online as an option, and we offer tutoring and writing services on ground and online,” Miller adds. “Almost everything we do has an online component or way to access it that way.”
Tri-C also prepared students to become online learners with software to acclimate them to virtual classrooms.
The tools work. But online connectivity isn’t quite the same as an in-person experience, Miller says.
“Retention data across the country shows students who are meeting with other students and faculty on ground, at least for some of their coursework, are more engaged and retained at a slightly higher rate,” Miller says, noting that Tri-C is making a concerted effort to bolster on-ground options.
But students lean toward online learning.
“Students vote with their feet and those online classes fill up first,” she says. “We monitor enrollment up until the week be-
“Options are key for our students. Over 70% of students work more than 20 hours per week, and taking courses through online formats becomes critical.”
– DENISE DOUGLAS, Provost at Lorain County Community College
fore classes start, and we adjust and add sections where we need to meet demand.”
Denise Douglas is provost at Lorain County Community College, and she traces flexible learning to the days when it was called distance learning. Just before the pandemic, 34% of the student body chose online coursework, and this population
spans ages and stages from high school College Credit Plus to octogenarians taking classes.
After pandemic requirements subsided, 60% still chose online and now 48.7% of students enroll in synchronous (real-time) or asynchronous (recorded) courses.
“Options are key for our students,” Douglas says. “Over 70% of students work more than 20 hours per week, and taking courses through online formats becomes critical.”
There are all kinds of terms to describe online options. At LCCC, high-flex means “all the options.” For a single course, students can select from synchronous, asynchronous or in-person. And they can adjust the modality by the week if need be, choosing to be in-person when possible and online when life demands it.
“With our flexible options, persistence rates have increased,” Douglas reports.
‘There is not a typical online student’ Moving online for undergrad shed light on how some students thrive in the modality so professors could consider how to create
additional tools for engagement, says Gunzenhauser. “The flipped classroom puts the onus on students and faculty members to build in check-ins, and now there is more infrastructure for technology,’ she says.
Miller says of Tri-C, “There are students who are always first to raise their hands in a group discussion, and the more reticent
students who have a lot to say and online can provide an opportunity.”
Thura at Case says the biology class with just 15 students online, breakout sessions and online presentations suits her. “But if the class were larger than that, it would be difficult for the professor to fully engage everyone,” she says.
She’d consider an online course with two dozen others, but lecture hall-sized classes would not be comfortable.
Case determined dual delivery “did not work well,” Shulman says of a professor offering an online and in-person option simultaneously. Following the pilot program in 2023-24, after collecting data such as quantifiable measures and professor-student experience, the university will determine what’s next for online options.
For reasons ranging from balancing work to focusing on the screen to self-discipline, online and in-person learning are highly personal decisions. And what works for students can depend on the type of post-secondary institution, online delivery method — “A regular class on Zoom is not necessarily a quality online class,” says Shulman — and the course content.
Douglas says, “Not all are going to learn best online and sometimes it’s the topic and sometimes it’s simply not easier to be online. We have plenty of students who say, ‘I’m OK with taking this course online but not that one,’ and the good news is, they have options.”
As climate change threatens local plants and horticulture, conservation efforts are in place to save the day.
BY CHRISTINA RUFO
When rhododendrons burst into bloom each spring, their vibrant colors steal the show. But behind every rare hue and striking hybrid lies years of careful breeding, scientific precision and endless patience. Crafting the perfect rhododendron is a fascinating blend of art and horticultural science. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem and are the subject of ongoing research to ensure their survival in a changing climate.
Beyond their stunning appearance, rhododendrons are an early-season food source for hummingbirds and a hub for native pollinators like bees and butterflies.
“They’re often the first woody plants with abundant floral resources to bloom in the spring,” says Holden Forests & Gardens plant biologist Dr. Juliana Medeiros. “Some studies in India show that birds may starve if the rhododendrons bloom late because they rely on the nectar.”
In Northeast Ohio, pollinators can be seen
flitting around rhododendrons in an array of habitats, including areas of acidic soil, abundant sun or shaded ravines. Rhododendrons’ ability to grow in challenging environments, including bogs, forested slopes and stream banks, makes them a crucial part of local ecosystems.
With blooms that range from soft pastels to vivid, eye-popping shades, these plants put on a spectacular show from early spring through late summer. “Breeding is all about creating a better landscape plant,” explains
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Connor Ryan, rhododendron collections manager at Holden Forests & Gardens. “By combining traits from plants worldwide, we can develop rhododendron hybrids that are more resilient to heat, drought and disease, ensuring their viability in different climates.”
This means there’s a rhododendron for just about every garden space, whether you want a towering shrub or a more compact variety. There are an estimated 1,200 rhododendron species that serve different ecological roles that can be appealing for hybrid breeding.
The key to keeping rhododendrons happy in a changing climate is a mix of observation,
But finding the best rhododendron for your home garden can be easy. Among the state’s five native species, early azaleas (Rhododendron prinophyllum) and pinxterbloom azaleas (Rhododendron periclymenoides) live local to Northeast Ohio. Visit your local nursery — or Medeiros suggests public gardens like the Holden Arboretum — to compare options.
Beyond their ecological and ornamental importance, rhododendrons are one of the most significant plant groups being studied for medicinal properties, with research exploring their use in treating diseases like diabetes and cancer. Medeiros emphasizes that conservation efforts are essential to preserve the plant’s untapped medicinal potential.
there’s a rhododendron for just about every garden space, whether you want a towering shrub or a more compact variety.
adaptation and conservation. Choosing resilient native and hybrid varieties, monitoring them closely and adjusting care as needed will be crucial.
No one can predict exactly how shifting temperatures and weather patterns will affect rhododendrons, but breeders and researchers are working to develop tougher varieties. Spectral imaging helps scientists study pigments and plant characteristics that may hold the key to better adaptability. Even with this research, Medeiros warns, “the changes are going to be so
unpredictable and chaotic — there’s no way a plant is going to be prepared. It’s more up to us as gardeners to pay attention and ensure they get the care they need.”
For home gardeners, that means staying flexible. Experimenting with placement in different parts of the garden to find the best microclimate and keeping an eye on humidity levels can make a big difference.
“Low humidity is probably their worst enemy,” Medeiros says. “If someone has a really important rhododendron, they might consider installing a misting system to help maintain moisture levels.”
Similar to sprinklers, a misting system produces a fine spray designed to cool and increase humidity, ideal for moisture-loving plants like rhododendrons. Setups include nozzles, tubing and a water source, sometimes with a timer for automation. Gardeners can attach nozzles to a hose or PVC pipes near plants and mist in the morning or late afternoon to prevent drying out.
As groups such as the Rhododendron Research Network continue research, more insight on how to help these beloved plants thrive will emerge. With a little effort and a lot of passion, Clevelanders can ensure the enduring beauty and ecological value of rhododendrons for generations to come.
These local nurseries embrace eco-friendly native plants, and they’ve got expert tips to help your native garden thrive.
BY CHRISTINA RUFO
April is Ohio Native Plant Month, making it the best time to support native nurseries and start a native garden at home.
This nursery is the hub for a mostly selfgrown selection of native plants, perennials and woody ornamentals. Owner Craig Cormack knows Northeast Ohio’s tough, clay-heavy soil can be a challenge, but he has a simple solution: raised beds with organic matter and sand to improve drainage. This small change makes a huge difference, especially in areas prone to waterlogging. “Fortunately, most native plants aren’t as finicky,” explains Cormack. “They’re more tolerant of wet soil than marginal soils, which is advantageous, but like all plants, they all thrive in a loose, organic soil, with good drainage.” He recommends geraniums, cranesbill geraniums, asters and the everpopular butterfly weed, all of which flourish in local conditions. 7220 Ravenna Road, Concord Township, 440-354-1525, mapleridgegarden.com
Established by Ohio State University graduates Julie Slater, Alyssa Zearley and Dave Tomashefski, this nursery specializes in local ecotype plants — native species that are genetically adapted to thrive in Northeast Ohio’s unique climate and soil conditions. They are perfectly timed to bloom and fruit with local wildlife, providing essential food and habitat while creating resilient landscapes. Meadow City employs other eco-friendly practices such as plastic-free, compostable pots and peat-free soil, which protects globally important wetland ecosystems. “A lot of people are interested in reducing their lawn and replacing it with something more ecologically beneficial, and we find that for a lot of beginning gardeners, it’s kind of a mystery,” says Slater. As a solution, the nursery also offers a wealth of resources for growers, like “Shrink Your Lawn” kits with mulch and cardboard to help smother the grass and convert your lawn into a native garden. 15006 Westropp Ave., Cleveland, 216-282-6911, meadowcitynursery.com
Avonlea Gardens & Inn
Amy and Joe Goletz’s family-run nursery offers a diverse selection of perennials, shrubs, trees, vines, annuals, herbs and succulents, all while helping gardeners find the perfect plants to match their goals. Amy believes that gardening isn’t one-size-fits-all and encourages visitors to stop by for help selecting the best native plants for their unique conditions — whether it’s full sun, deep shade or tricky soil. Not sure what’s in your dirt? A soil test can unlock the secrets of your garden. “A lot is based on the size of the pot versus the size of the root system, and then you want to consider the material of the pot,” she explains. “So even if you live in an apartment, if you only have a balcony, if you just have a small patio area, you can still grow native plants.” 12511 Fowlers Mill Road, Chardon, 440-622-7225, avonleagardensandinn.com
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Inspiring spaces of character and revival
A Westlake boy scores the basketball bedroom of which hoops fans’ dreams are made.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 108
Summer Alaedeen needed to make the interior design equivalent of a buzzer-beating, gamewinning half-court shot. A Westlake couple had hired her to redecorate their basketball-loving 11-yearold son’s bedroom as a surprise, and no mass-produced theme wallpaper or team logo decal would do.
The light yellow room boasted a vaulted tray ceiling and large window, complete with a window seat, flanked by built-in bookcases. But the only indication that a sports fan slept there was a gray comforter studded with NFL team logos and a basketball hoop hung over a closet door.
“I wanted to find a really unique wall feature that actually came to life in the room,” says the co-owner of Westlake-based Adeas
Interior Design.
Inspiration came while she was scrolling through a social media site: basketballs mounted on a wall. A subsequent conversation with the homeowners produced the idea of turning the tray ceiling into a Cleveland Cavaliers home court.
Alaedeen prepared the room for the colorful additions by painting the walls and ceiling white and the ceiling’s perimeter black, then replacing the cream carpeting with a heather-gray counterpart. The homeowners wanted to retain the baby blue and white-striped cornice box and dark blue window seat cushion. So Alaedeen papered the bookshelf backs in a similar blueand-white stripe and painted the cherrystained built-ins ocean blue.
To source the 50 basketballs for the wall
installation, Alaedeen turned to Dina Younis, a professional thrifter based in Akron.
“I didn’t want a bunch of brand new basketballs on the wall,” Alaedeen explains. “I wanted something that looked curated, looked like [the boy] had collected this over time.”
She deflated the balls to create different sizes and shapes, making sure that those with logos, signatures and designs remained sufficiently inflated and shaped to show them off, then razor-cut a one-inch slit in the back of each for hanging on a coat hook. The balls were mounted in rows above a royal-blue upholstered headboard and aged driftwood nightstands.
“It was actually more difficult to deflate them, even with the razor cut,” Alaedeen recalls.
Mo Ali of North Ridgeville-based Limelights Entertainment approximated one of the Cavs’ home court designs, along with Alaedeen’s rendering of the surrounding fan-filled seating sections, on custom decal panels. “[The homeowners] love carpeting in the bedrooms, so I knew we weren’t going to get away with putting a flooring in there,” Alaedeen replies when asked why the court ended up on the ceiling. The “aisles” are actually strips of black wood trim added to cover panel seams.
“I didn’t like the look of just the decal on the ceiling,” she explains. “It wasn’t perfect enough, it wasn’t straight enough. Honestly, it’s not due to the company that created it — it was due to just the irregularity of standard walls.” A Pottery Barn Teen lighting fixture consisting of a white globe in a black chain basket was hung from center court.
Alaedeen incorporated items representing the boy’s passion for other sports into the decor. A helmet signed by Jordan Love, Josh Jacobs and Jayden Reed of the Green Bay Packers — a favorite NFL football team — and Reed’s signed gloves are displayed with his collection of NBA-star bobbleheads on the bookshelves. And the NFL team-logo comforter remained. The child’s mother didn’t replace it because he loved it so much.
That love now extends to the entire room. The boy literally flipped onto his bed when he saw the complete redo. Alaedeen believes that as long as he’s a hoops fan, he won’t outgrow the decor. His parents have told her that it wows adult male friends and relatives who see it.
“There are so many guys that are like, ‘I would love this room for my room!’” she says.
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Curating a variety of basketballs from the past to the present was a slam dunk for Dina Younis.
Among the options that the Akronbased professional thrifter sourced for Adeas Interior Design co-owner Summer Alaedeen: a gold Cleveland Cavaliers ball emblazoned with the team’s 1970s swashbuckling cavalier logo from Play It Again Sports in Cuyahoga Falls; a Spalding edition stamped with Boston Celtics great Larry Bird’s signature from a Goodwill store in Cuyahoga Falls; and a NCAA Final Four promotional specimen from a Goodwill store in Medina.
“Goodwill, Salvation Army, Volunteers of America — any type of bigger retail [thrift] chain like that will almost always have a
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AVON | $709K
New construction cluster with first floor master and private office. Over 3400 sq. ft. of exceptional living space. Fabulous kitchen featuring a quartz island, dual sinks, dovetailed and soft close cabinetry. So many upgrades! Second floor with three generous bedrooms. Full finished lower level with nine-foot ceilings. Zoned HVAC. Composite deck. Attached two car garage.
RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000
BRATENAHL | $825K
Elegant yet warm Shoreby detached cluster offers one floor living in a superior location. Two story entry leading to a grand & inviting vaulted great room. Light fills the space. Gracious formal dining room. The private first floor master (with two walk-ins and bath with separate tub and shower) is adjacent to a tranquil library-office. All rooms open to the patios.
RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000
BRECKSVILLE | $650K
Completely and thoughtfully redone. Fabulous master with deep walk-in (with room to expand.) Three additional bedrooms on second floor. All newer mechanical systems. Simply stunning. Close to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Brecksville Metroparks, Brecksville community center, new swim park, and library. Top rated Schools. Outstanding City services.
HEIGHTS | $899K
Private country estate set on seven and a half wooded acres. Over 5000 sq. ft. home plus private guest cottage (perfect for an office or party room.) Many updates throughout including kitchen cabinetry and quartz counters. Wonderful guest suite on first floor. Second floor master with wood burner and balcony. Two additional bedrooms and bath on second floor. Walk-out lower level.
RE/MAX REG | LOU BARBEE (440) 899-0000
Second flr featuring four generous bedrooms including 19x16 master with private bath. Unfinished lower level adds to the possibilities. Be quick.
BRATENAHL | $825K
Completing the main level is a bright white kitchen (with quartz counters, abundant storage, large center island, and family dinette.) 1st-floor
The front page of Cleveland Press on April 20, 1963, was quite the setting.
Cleveland Press reporters Paul Lilley and Bill Rice and their wives were eating dinner at “the most exclusive restaurant in town.”
In fact, they were the only ones there. They packed a picnic lunch, including tuna salad sandwiches and hard-boiled eggs, and trudged up the back steps to the second level of Burke Lakefront Airport (the escalators weren’t working) for a lunch that offered a great view — but little else. “The site seems ideal for a smart restaurant operator, but so far it’s a pretty lonely place to dine,” said the story, with the byline of Mrs. Paul Lilley and Mrs. Bill Rice.
It was another step in the lengthy — and still unfinished — process to make Burke Lakefront Airport a destination.
In 1947, a temporary runway was constructed along the lakefront, between East Ninth and East 12th streets, as the city started to look for options to alleviate traffic at its main airport (now Hopkins International). The lakefront airport continued to grow, and on Oct. 9, 1960, a new terminal was dedicated. By 1965, there were dozens of commercial commuter flights coming out of the airport — and a new restaurant, which took some doing.
Initially, the city sought a lessee that would pay $72,000 in annual rent and a percentage of the liquor sales. Eventually, through various fits and starts, a Brown Derby restaurant opened on the second floor in 1964 with a 15-year lease. A year later, its operator, Mark Figetakis, parted ways with the regional chain, and the restaurant was renamed the Mark. Figetakis opened dozens of restaurants in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Florida before the company declared bankruptcy in 1979. Two years later, a new restaurant emerged, Metin’s, named for its operator, Metin Aydin. That restaurant was closed in 1983 by the IRS. The second-floor space at Burke has been offices and storage since.
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