Northeast Ohio Parent Solon Community Focus May 2021

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S o lon SUBURB LIFE Local Resident Shares Love of Solon

GROWTH MINDSET

Solon Schools Engaged Learning

CITY’S PROGRESS

Finding Pathways to Live, Work, Play

SOLON LIVING

Find out why residents love this family-friendly town May 2021 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Love

For the

of Solon

E

By Estelle Rodis-Brown

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY BENTLEY FAMILY

. Macke Bentley IV is a member of Solon City Council and serves as the city’s planning commission chairman. A Solon resident since 1999, he is principal at architectural engineering firm EBA, Inc. Bentley is enthusiastic about Solon, especially about the city’s consistently top-rated school system. “I love the city, its people, the diversity, the school system…It’s cool to be a smart athlete at Solon High School.”

“Solon is also a place where people can agree to disagree,” he adds. “We may have our differences, but we still share common ground. We can talk about stuff and be genuine, friendly and open with each other. I wish there were more hours in the day to connect with the people.”

He also is proud that Solon attracts so many businesses and industries that are robust employers.

“More people commute into Solon than to Cleveland every day for work,” he says. The city is bustling with new stores and restaurants opening up, but it’s not congested, due to responsive city planners and engineers who know how to keep traffic flowing.

While Bentley is supportive of the business community and also is playing a key role in improving wireless connec

tivity and making Solon a safer place for walking and biking, he relishes his family time with Pamela Noble, his wife of 26 years, and their young adult children, Noel 19, and EMack, 22.

While EMack has been away at college in Middlebury, Vt. (where he is a junior majoring in commercial real estate and economics, and is captain on the men’s ice hockey team), Noel is a Hampton University (Virginia) freshman, taking coursework online from home this year.

When EMack returns home for the summer, the family will resume their favorite shared pastimes, which include bike rides to Chagrin Falls, hikes in the parks, frequenting the Heritage Coffee shop and Swirl Wine Bar, and enjoying home-cooked meals together.

Calling themselves “a hockey family,” Bentley says that he coached his son’s team since EMack was 2, and he continues to mentor 10 kids from the team who have since grown into young men.

“Hockey is a metaphor for life,” Bentley says. “I tell the guys, ‘You’ve got to work harder if you want to get better. Put the time in and you’ll improve, whatever you set your mind to do.’”

“Families move to Solon for our exceptional schools, beautiful neighborhoods, access to awesome trails, metroparks and community parks and the large and ever growing business community and opportunities. Families stay in Solon because it is a highly diverse, inclusive and equitable community to live, work and play.”

— Mayor Edward H. Kraus * Pictured on the Cover: From left to right, Kan Family, Photo by Jonathan Hoope; Solon Dog Park, Solon Community Parks; 56 Kitchen, Grantwood Golf Course; Photos by City of Solon; Miles Farmer’s Market, Photo submitted by Miles Farmer’s Market.

PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY CITY OF SOLON

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CITY OF SOLON DIRECTORY (solonohio.org) Mayor: Edward H. Kraus, 440-248-1155 Director of Economic Development: Angee Shaker, 440-337-1313 Director of Community and Cultural Enrichment: Tracy Sullivan, 440-337-1428 Director of Recreation: Rich Parker, 440-337-1426 Director of Senior Services: Jill Frankel, 440-349-6363 Grantwood Golf Course: 440-248-4646 Solon Center for the Arts: 440-337-1400 6315 Som Center Rd, solonohio.org Solon Chamber of Commerce: 440-248-5080 6240 Som Center Rd #211, solonchamber.com Solon Community Park: 6679 SOM Center Road, solonohio.org Solon Historical Society: 33975 Bainbridge Rd, solonhistoricalsociety.org Solon Public Library Branch: 34125 Portz Parkway, cuyahogalibrary.org/branches/solon Solon Recreation Center: 440-248-5747 35000 Portz Pkwy, solonohio.org Solon City Schools: solonschools.org

CITY OF SOLON UPCOMING EVENTS JUNE 11 : Movie in the Park Night at the Museum JUNE 23: Farmers Market #1 JULY 2 : Fireworks JULY 7 : Farmers Market #2 JULY 21: Farmers Market #3 JULY 23 - 25 : Solon Home Days JULY 23: Movie in the Park Ratatouille JULY 24 : Music in the Park - TBD JULY 25: Music in the Park Yosemite Slim AUGUST 1: Music in the Park with Solon Symphony AUGUST 4: Farmers Market #4 AUGUST 13: Movie in the Park Honey, I Shrunk the Kids AUGUST 15: Indians Watch Party!

AUGUST 18: Farmers Market #5 AUGUST 28: Pop-Up in the Park SEPTEMBER 1 :Farmers Market #6 SEPTEMBER 12: Browns Watch Party!

SEPTEMBER 15: Farmers Market #7 OCTOBER 16: Fall Festival NOVEMBER 24: Holiday Lighting DECEMBER 11: Hometown Holiday Market

Solon Job Fair in the Park:

Are you ready to find your dream job?

Jumpstart your job search by connecting with Solon businesses on Thursday, June 3 from noon to 4 p.m. at Solon Community Park.

To register, please visit: solonchamber.com/jobseekers — Courtesy of Solon Chamber of Commerce

Visit solonohio.org or Facebook.com/SolonArtCenter or Facebook.com/solonrec Please check the city’s website to check on event happenings or changes.

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ENGAGED LEARNING AT SOLON SCHOOLS Find out how the school district is fostering partnerships in the community and helping their students embrace growth.

By Sara Macho Hill

T

he Solon City School District ranks as one of the best in the nation, and it’s not simply a matter of opinion; it has the accolades to prove it.

In 2019, Solon earned the state’s No. 1 school report card for student achievement and in 2020, was named the No. 2 public school district in America by Niche.com, a community and academic rating organization. Solon City Schools also has earned

cles that become larger and more developed the more they are engaged and used.

“By cultivating a culture of growth mindset in our schools, we help students to see that it is their brains that make them unique and that they control their ability to succeed and achieve, whether it is in the classroom, in activities, in sports, in art, or whatever they choose,” Strom says.

Standards focus on building criti-

says. “A walk through any of our school buildings shows students moving around the room, sitting in groups on the floor with manipulatives, using technology and working in hallways and open spaces for active and participatory learning.”

“The focus for students is all on application learning and making connections between things they are learning, reading and experiencing in everyday life and in the

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: “KINDERGARTEN LETTER VEST PARADE”; DEMONSTRATING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SPIRIT; COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT OF LEAF RAKING FOR OLDER ADULTS. PHOTOS BY TAMARA STROM

nods from U.S. News & World Report, Cleveland Magazine, the National Merit Scholarship Program, the United States Department of Agriculture, the United States Presidential Scholars Program, and the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation, among others.

So what’s its secret?

“If I could summarize what our schools are all about, I would say ‘engaged learning,’” says Tamara Strom, director of communications. “Families move to Solon for the schools, so you have families who are a part of our community who really value education, collegiality, and the many opportunities that are presented to students here in Solon.

Starting from the youngest grades, we help students get all the content and skill-level they need in an atmosphere of collaboration with peers and engagement in learning.”

One of the main ingredients is growth mindset, a concept developed by Stanford Psychologist Carol Dweck that shows the connection between mindset, success and achievement. In a growth mindset, people believe that their capabilities are just the beginning point, and that through commitment and hard work, these abilities can be expanded, Strom explains. In Solon, students are taught that their brains are elastic mus-

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cal-thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills.

“We help them to understand that making mistakes is actually a critical aspect of learning,” Strom says. “Risk-taking and challenging themselves are the key to higher achievement and success, even if they make mistakes along the way. This means teachers are providing more challenging work to all students, and to succeed, students must embrace the challenges, stick to it even if it is difficult, identify resources to help themselves, and most importantly, believe that they can do it.”

Fourth grade students recently completed a lesson in living a healthy lifestyle by watching a video clip and reading articles on healthy lunches. The students then wrote an opinion piece citing evidence from the video and article texts advocating their position on whether it is healthier to buy a school lunch or pack one from home. English/ language arts lessons at all grade levels help students to make authentic connections as part of their literary learning, Strom says. In younger grades, children begin their day with diagrams and graphs that chart the weather, the calendar days and cafeteria options.

“Our children in Solon work in teams, collaborate, communicate and create,” Strom

world,” Strom says.

There also are numerous community partnerships and collaborations that work to strengthen the Solon City Schools, Strom says. The PTA assists with school events, COSI programs, assemblies, visiting authors and volunteer support. Academic Boosters oversee student recognition and award programs. Music Parents provide instruments and music, and the Athletic Boosters foster athlete recognition, weight room and team equipment, and scoreboard funding.

The City of Solon and the Village of Glenwillow provide opportunities not typically seen in other communities, including solutions on programming, tax incentives and economic development, and revenue sharing of cable franchise fees that backs Solon Education TV. In addition, many corporate connections further expand student opportunities, like the district’s collaboration with the Solon Chamber of Commerce that matches students with area businesses for senior projects, internships and jobs, Strom says.

To learn more about Solon City Schools, visit solonschools.org and stay connected via Facebook and Twitter.

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A Day in Solon The City of Solon offers plenty of family-friendly activities for parents and children of all ages. When spending the day in the city consider visiting the following hotspots.

LEARNING, PLAY AND FITNESS

MORNING PICK-ME-UP

For a caffeinated start for mom and dad, check out the new Heritage Coffee shop. Located at 33445 Station St., enjoy delicious hot coffee, lattes, scones and pastries. All products are locally sourced to support the community and fellow small business owners. Stop by and enjoy a welcoming environment or swing by for a to-go order. Order online at coffeeheritage.com.

By Sterling Haynes

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY BUTCHER’S PANTRY

Stop by Butcher’s Pantry, at 33475 Station St., for the perfect cut of steak to throw on the grill. Check out weekly menu specials. Visit thebutcherspantry. com.

Stroll, play and more in the city’s parks and facilities. The Community Park is located at 6679 SOM Center road across from the Solon Public Library. Bring the kids to the baseball fields and separate playground areas.

Play volleyball at the sand courts or enjoy aquatics in the summer. There are also plenty of youth activities and programming for all ages and abilities through the recreation department.

Visit solonohio.org.

SHOP AROUND

Shop for new furniture at Sedlak Interiors Fine Home Furnishings, at 34300 Solon Road. This landmark destination for fine furniture and home accessories features quality brands. Visit sedlakinteriors.com.

The Solon branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, located at 34125 Portz Parkway, provides family-friendly programming. Listen to fun stories with storytimes and clubs for multiple age groups. Families often can take home activity bags with directions and supplies for multiple crafts and learning tools for the kids. Visit cuyahogalibrary. org/branches/solon.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY POP CULTURE CLE

Opening this spring in the Solon historic district at 33549 Solon Road is Pop Culture CLE, featuring handcrafted gourmet confections. Visit popculturecle.com.

Head over to Miles Farmers Market for fresh produce and much more.

Located at 28560 Miles Road, the 21,000-square-foot market has been a part of Solon for more than 46 years.

Enjoy a large selection of fresh produce, plus a custom-cut butcher shop, old fashioned deli, bakery, cheese shop, bistro and wine department. Visit milesfarmersmarket.com.

✳

Did you know Stouffer’s, owned by Nestle, is in Solon? Stop by the Stouffer’s Thrift Store on 5750 Harper Road in Solon to shop this popular brand’s outlet.

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SOLON FIRE DEPARTMENT APPARATUS OUTSIDE THE SOM CENTER STATION CIRCA 1958. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY SOLON HISTORICAL SOCIETY, SOLONHISTORICALSOCIETY.ORG

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY CHAGRIN VALLEY SOAP AND SALVE

Enjoy shopping at Chagrin Valley Soap & Salve, located at 29425 Aurora Road, for organic skin and hair care products. Chagrin Valley Soap’s ingredients are USDA-certified organic, sustainably produced, cruelty-free and ethically traded. For mom, try apple cider vinegar hair rinse, whipped squalane face & eye cream, and springtime lime lavender soap. For dad, try honey beer soap, beard oil and spice shaving soap. Visit chagrinvalleysoapandsalve. com.

PHOTO BY ROLLHOUSE

Take the family for an escape or go bowling at RollHouse Entertainment, at 33185 Bainbridge Road. Bring the entire family for tons of other fun activities, including the Escapology live escape game, plus laser tag, party

rooms and cosmic bowling. Visit therollhouse.com/solon.

DINE OUT

Solon hotspot Station 43 Tavern, located at 39910 Aurora Road, is a locally owned, firehouse-themed restaurant and bar. Since 2006, its goal is to provide a classic “mom and pop” style eatery.

Neighborhood regulars and destination diners enjoy an expansive bar and diverse menu. Visit station43tavern.com.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY D-BAT

The kids can play ball at D-BAT Solon, a baseball and softball indoor training facility located at 29001 Solon Road, Unit 1.

The pitching machines are wildly popular and private baseball and softball lessons are offered. Visit dbatsolon.com.

Burn some calories and get in shape for summer at Orangetheory Fitness, at 6025 Kruse Drive. Orangetheory is a total body group workout that combines science, coaching and technology. Book a class at orangetheory.com.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY MITCHELL’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

Grab a sweet scoop at Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream, located at 1867 W. 25th St. Each batch of ice cream is hand-crafted using local grass-fed dairy and fresh seasonal ingredients.

Try a range of flavors like black raspberry chocolate chunk, pralines & cream, vegan chocolate, Geauga maple walnut and more. Visit mitchellshomemade.com.

For a night out without the kids, swirl, sniff and partake at Swirl Wine Bar, located at 33325 Bainbridge Road. Swirl is housed in an 1850s Victorian home complete with fireplaces, gardens and a large outdoor stone patio. From Whites to Reds, dry to sweet, it has wine for every palate. View the wine list at swirlsolon. com.

Mish Mosh Eclectic Eatery & Spirits is a casual farm-to-table hangout. Located at 5050 Brainard Road, at Mish Mosh everything is made from scratch. Produce and angus beef are sourced locally. Fresh fish dishes are served from the fisheries in the Northeastern U.S. Visit mishmosheatery.com.

Order carry-out from a fresh foods menu at 56 Kitchen, located at 33587 Aurora Rd, Solon. Design your own plate, grab a stone-oven pizza, enjoy their love of lettuce salads or have a burger or speciality sandwich. Plenty of gluten-free and vegan options. Visit 56kitchen.com Be sure to check for hours of operation and rules or regulations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Have a fun time in Solon, Ohio!

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Solon Works on Future Plans to Connect Residents to More Safe, Walkable Community

M

ichael Kan, Solon resident and assistant public defender at the Cuyahoga County Public Defender Office, sees the potential in the suburb.

Michael, along with his wife, Karin (they also have a son, Keller, and dog, Maisie), moved to the city three years ago after living in downtown Cleveland.

“We loved Solon because of the school district, all the great amenities and housing choices,” Kan says.

One area of improvement is the city’s walkability — where residents can stroll to businesses and other establishments safely.

City and county officials, as well as residents like Kan, are hoping to see changes in these existing connections.

“The current state of walkability in Solon varies; in many cases, Solon residents have convenient access to sidewalks or trails like Hawthorn Parkway,” says Michael Mears, senior planner at Cuyahoga County Planning Commission. “In other locations, that access might be unsafe or incomplete, lacking a sidewalk or trail.”

Last year, a four-phase “Solon Connects Plan” was created with the goal to “build safer and stronger pedestrian and bicycle connections between existing civic, commercial, and open space assets to create safe

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By Angela Gartner

and beneficial active transportation options for everyone,” according to the collaboration between the city of Solon and Cuyahoga County Planning Commission.

The first phase had an online survey for residents, which resulted in 756 respondents.

According to the results, the survey participants wanted to see changes by multi-use paths and trails (75%); add and improve sidewalks (63%); add bike lanes and paths, and pedestrian-friendly developments (57%); add more amenities (50%); and add or improve crosswalks (40%).

Kan, who watched the town hall last month about the Solon Connects Plan and currently is running for Solon City Council, says walkability is a positive economic benefit and adds it’s good for residents’ health, road maintenance and safety, plus it encourages community.

“Research shows that people now prefer to be closer to work, shopping, restaurants, entertainment and outdoor gathering spaces,” says Angee Shaker, director of economic development for the city of Solon. “Making our city more connected and walkable will be a terrific investment, not only in our health and wellness, but also in our future economic growth as a city. Walkable streets encourage business activity and increase sales revenues, increase

property values. We’re focusing on key areas of the city’s downtown that will connect our central retail district and public spaces, such as the Solon Community Park, community center, the schools, the library and Cleveland Metroparks.”

Mears says the plan is in the recommendations phase, which is the third of the four phases.

“In this phase, we start to identify recommendations and action steps the city can undertake to achieve the community’s vision of a more connected Solon,” he says. “Getting community input on recommendations is critical, so we have built an online survey for residents to provide feedback.”

“One of the goals in our plan is to expand access to every neighborhood in the city,” Mears says. “Many Solon residents enjoy walking or biking for recreation and exercise, so we want to provide the infrastructure necessary for them to do this conveniently and safely right from their home or business.

Many of the positive outcomes we want to see in our communities are directly related to improvements in walking and biking.”

Residents can provide feedback at countyplanning.us/soloninput. To learn more about the plan, visit the project website at countyplanning.us/projects/solon-connects.

BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS SPECIAL ADVERTISER LISTINGS APEX

At Apex Dermatology, the mission is to transform lives through healthy skin. Apex offers same-day appointments, providing quick access to expert dermatology care. We specialize in skin cancer diagnoses and treatment including Mohs skin cancer surgery, general dermatology for adults and children, and aesthetic and cosmetic dermatology.

Providers at Apex Dermatology in Solon include Dr. Brian Moore, Marlise Fletter, CNP, and Kaylee O’Donnell, RN, aesthetic nurse. Schedule your same-day appointment at 833-279-SKIN (7546) or at apexskin.com

ATA MARTIAL ARTS

ATA Martial Arts focuses on developing future leaders through life skills. Courtesy, respect, honesty, integrity, focus, discipline and leadership all are necessary life skills children need as they grow.

Along with the traditional curriculum, the class also covers child safety, self-defense and how to deal with bullies. From ages 4 to 90, ATA programs offer something for each and every person. Anyone can begin martial arts at any age and fitness level. 216-595-9900, atajourney.com

BAHIYA CLEANING SERVICE

BOMBA TACO + BAR

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOME SERVICES — SHARON FRIEDMAN

CUTS N CURLS

With the slogan “Allow us to make your office or home beautifully clean,” Bahiya Cleaning Service specializes in commercial cleaning, especially offices, serving Solon, Beachwood, Pepper Pike, GlenWillow and Bedford Heights. Residential services include move in/move out cleaning and Airbnb. 216-509-2986, bahiyacleaningservice.com

Serving the Eastern suburbs as a realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Professional Realty, Sharon Friedman serves clients from first-time buyers to move-up and seniors. Her 35+ year career gives her an expert’s insight into the neighborhoods and market. “I pride myself on exceptional knowledge of the area,” she says. “My clients have brought me to where I am today, and I am very grateful for that.”

216-338-3233, sharonfriedmanhomes.com

BOMBA Taco + Bar offers guests the ability to discover new, craveable flavors in a local hangout that they can call their own. The menu features a variety of tacos and bowls with bold, global flavors in a vibrant environment that is upbeat and welcoming. It adds excitement and fun to its offerings with scratch-made tequila, bourbon and rum cocktails. BombaTacos.com

The mission at Cuts N Curls is to take the stress out of getting you and your child’s hair cut in a safe and worry-free environment. The salon can handle everything, from your little one’s first haircut to your teen’s trendy style and full services for mom and dad. It also offers private parties and ear piercing, a popular service for kids of all ages. When you stop in, don’t forget to shop in the toy store. 440-542-1750, cutsncurls.net

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BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS SPECIAL ADVERTISER LISTINGS HOWARD HANNA SOLON

Teresa’s love for real estate started with personal experience corporately relocating through four states in 10 years. These moves have given Teresa the passion to help families relocate happily and become well adjusted in their new community. A few years later, Teresa renovated and flipped homes before becoming a top performing agent and one of Howard Hanna’s “Best of the Best.” Living in Solon for more than 18 years, she is an expert on the east side of Cleveland. 440-263-0504, teresawhitham.com or teresawhitham@ howardhanna.com

ROLLHOUSE

The guarantee at RollHouse is “Fun for Everyone”. They have so many options to choose from. In addition, to state-of- the-art bowling, they offer private suites for your events (finally, plan that meeting with your Zoom team!) Enjoy escape rooms, laser tag, virtual reality games and a brand new amazing menu. Skip the wait and book online. (Birthday Parties, lane reservations, cosmic bowling and so much more...) Visit therollhouse.com

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SOLON JEWISH PRESCHOOL The Solon Jewish Preschool offers an early childhood learning experience for ages 2 through pre-kindergarten, as well as Mom & Me classes for toddlers. The staff is hand picked, not only for their experience and credentials, but most of all for their warmth and caring. With the guidance of licensed and loving teachers, your child will be motivated to grow socially, morally and academically.

Half-day and full-day options are available. solonjewishpreschool.com

SOLON VEIN CLINIC

Solon Vein Clinic is a women-owned business led by a board certified general and vascular surgeon. The clinic is dedicated to the advanced treatment of all venous diseases, including spider veins, varicose veins and venous stasis ulcers. Services offered include sclerotherapy, phlebectomy and endovenous ablation. solonveinclinic.com

TOWNEPLACE SUITES CLEVELAND SOLON

Stay at TownePlace Suites Cleveland Solon for your next family reunion. It provides comfort for your guests, offering complimentary Wi-Fi, plush beds, and fully-equipped kitchens and living areas for ultimate convenience.

Never miss a moment with your four-legged friend thanks to its pet-friendly policy. Jump-start your morning routine at the free breakfast, serving an array of healthy and hearty options. Swing by the bar in the evening for some refreshing cocktails. You can even host a family barbecue at the outdoor patio complete with grills. During downtime, enjoy an energizing workout at the indoor pool and fitness center. marriott.com/towneplace/suites

YOUNG CHEF’S ACADEMY OF NORTHEAST OHIO

Young Chef’s Academy offers cooking classes to children in a safe environment that encourages discovery and creativity.

While learning food preparation skills is the main ingredient at YCA, each class adds a heap of kitchen safety, a scoop of etiquette, a handful of table settings, a pinch of menu planning, and laughter to taste. Locations in Solon and Strongsville, 440-853-5004, ycasolon.com

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Learn more & open a tax-advantaged college savings account today at

CollegeAdvantage.com/NEOParent To learn more about Ohio’s 529 Plan — CollegeAdvantage — its investments, risks, fees, and other important information, read the Plan’s Offering Statement and Participation Agreement available at CollegeAdvantage.com. If you are not an Ohio resident or taxpayer, learn if your home state offers state tax or other benefits for investing in its 529 plan.

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