Ludlow Community Association
November 15, 2011 Meeting
Minutes
The meeting was called to order by Gwen Chapman at 7:10 p.m.
Gwen introduced Gary Katz, a Hampton Road resident who works for Judge Ray Pianka in the Housing Court. He could not stay for the meeting due to a schedule conflict, but he briefly described some of his housing court responsibilities and offered to speak at a future association meeting. Attendees felt this would be a useful program and agreed that we should invite him to speak in an official capacity.
Minutes of the October 11 meeting were reviewed. Diane Karpinski moved that we accept the minutes with corrections presented by Shaker Heights Police Officer Jankowski. Minutes were accepted with the change that residents are advised NOT to cancel newspapers and mail deliveries if they are going to be out of town.
Ms. Chapman introduced Mardele Cohen from the Northeast Ohio Sewer District. She gave a history of the Sewer District and described the work of the three treatment plants. The sewer district is one of the leading districts in the country for combination sewers and green technology. She also described several programs to help county residents save money:
1. Homestead program for persons 65+ or totally disabled (income limits apply)
2. Summer Sprinkling – summer water consumption based on winter use, if lower.
3. Wastewater Affordability Program – eligibility based on income and household size.
4. Crisis Assistance Program – job loss, medical expenses, change in marital status.
These programs are for owner-occupied property. Additional information is available at 216.881.8247 or at neorsd.org/save.
Officer Jerry Jankowski from the Shaker Heights Crime Prevention Department presented a safety report and announced that there were no major crimes to report for the year through October. He thanked the community for taking a pro-active and awareness approach. He encouraged attendees to report any suspicious activity to the Shaker Heights Police Department at 491-1220 or, for emergencies, 911. He suggested that anyone having windows in their garages cover the windows so no one can look inside. Residents can take advantage of an inspection of their premises by Officer Jankowski who can make suggestions to improve the security of their homes. Shaker Heights also offers the use of a scriber pen to mark items with the last four digits of the owner’s social security number. He advised people to call the police department if they are going out of town and give the police their cell phone number. He reiterated that residents should not discontinue the mail or newspaper delivery during their absence. It’s much safer to have a good neighbor pick them up.
Gwen discussed upcoming elections. A slate of nominees will be presented by the nominating committee at the December 11 meeting (and Christmas party). The election will take place at the January 17 meeting. The nominating committee is made up of executive committee members. Nominees will receive formal letters with the nomination so they can accept or decline in advance of the meeting. Nominations can be also taken from the floor. Paulanita Barker and Mr. Barker had questions about the nominating procedure. Gwen replied that we follow Robert’s Rules and that residents can recommend names to the nominating committee. Both Mr. Barker and Ms. Barker volunteered to be nominated for the position of co-president. Gwen reminded the attendees that the two co-presidents are chosen to represent the Cleveland and Shaker Heights sections of the Ludlow Community; one must be a resident of Cleveland, the other a resident of Shaker Heights.
Gwen introduced Lila Mills, the editor and publisher of the Neighborhood Voice, a new print publication that covers the Greater University Circle Area, including Buckeye, Shaker Square, Larchmere, Central, East Cleveland, Fairfax, House and Little Italy. They are accepting news, features and poetry for upcoming issues, which are published on a monthly basis.
Gwen announced that on December 7 Mayor Jackson will present the design for the African American Cultural Garden, currently in the development stages.
Kevin Kay introduced Veyonne Jackson, who owns “Grow Outs,” a resale shop on Larchmere that specializes in children’s clothing, toys and accessories. She is also a Ludlow resident.
Gwen announced a concert on Friday, December 2 at First Baptist Church in Shaker Heights, conducted by former LCA Co-President Luiz Coelho. She encouraged attendees to support the concert which benefits the Shaker Arts Council. She thanked everyone who supported the Shaker Centennial Celebration by singing in the video recording.
LCA t-shirts are still available and would be good Christmas presents. They can be purchased through Gwen.
The Holiday Celebration is chaired by Julie Donaldson. She announced that it will take place Sunday, December 11, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Ludlow School. Attendees are asked to bring hors d’oeuvres or a dessert to share. Donations of non-perishable foods will be collected for the Cleveland Food Bank, and white elephant presents are also requested. This should be a wrapped gift, for a child or adult, and may be a gently used item. Be sure to attach a label indicating whether it is for a boy or girl, and the age or size.
Santa will attend the party, so people are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the delight of their children when they meet him! Mildred Foster will play piano to accompany the Christmas Caroling.
There was no new business to discuss.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 p.m. on the motion of Diane Karpinski, seconded by Mr. Eskridge.
Respectfully submitted,
Mary Ann Kovach
Ludlow Community Association 