Oscars 2015

Films: Whiplash, Inherent Vice, Cake, Gone Girl, The Theory of Everything, 

Birdman and Selma

As I gaze out my window into my backyard, the snow is startling white. It seems like you can go out and play. That is not the case. My iPhone registers the temperature at 0º, which does not include the windchill. How many days until spring is all I can think of.

Since I can’t go out and play or garden under several inches of icy snow, winter for me is hiding out in a theater and watch films. That is probably my favorite thing to do in the cooler months especially winter. I have seen all the Oscar nominated films: Boyhood, Whiplash, The Theory of Everything, Selma, American Sniper, The Imitation Game, Birdman, and The Grand Budapest Hotel (I watched this at home at least four times and I just couldn’t get through it). I try to see all the films so when the Oscars are televised, I can get a good representation about the nominees and their performances. The collection of films are all very different and I like them all for various reasons except the one I couldn’t finish watching.

Which film will win best film of the year? I choose “Boyhood” because it was incredible. It spans a boys life from age six until eighteen; the performances and storyline were stellar. It’s a simple premise where a boy experiences life like everyone else does without these super dramatic clichés. It’s real life where I was compelled to see what happens next. The boy ages nonchalantly where there is no birthday parties or awkward type on the screen that says, “2 Years later.” You figure it out by: his size, how the boy’s hair and clothing changes, and a more mature dialogue. I enjoyed it very much because of its inventiveness. It reminded me of the Linklater’s “Before Midnight.” It’s fresh and the dialogue carries the entire film. It’s that simple. I wish I would have seen it on the big screen. The critics however think it was just average but because it spans 12-years, it is worth an Oscar nomination.

I also really enjoyed Eddy Redmayne’s performance in “The Theory of Everything.” He contorted his body to represent Dr. Steven Hawking’s affliction of motor neuron disease beautifully. When I looked online to see the real Hawking, Redmayne looked perfect. I heard stories about this film that is was like a soap opera or sappy love story. That is what I loved about it, the love and respect these two people had for one another. The fact that Dr. Hawking had an early onset of this disease and his soon to be wife stuck by him through his entire illness. If that is not love, I don’t know what is. I didn’t know anything about the subject matter so I was immersed in the story as it unfolded; how Steven Hawking is still living with this debilitating disease when doctors only gave him a limited time to live. A miracle, I’d say. I believe Redmayne will get the Oscar for all his research and unforgettable performance of this scientist.

Selma, I thought was also a terrific film. I heard all the criticism that the director/writer had to edit Dr. Martin Luther Kings words but it didn’t diminish the content of the story for me. Dr. King believed in voting rights for all people and he demonstrated it nonviolently in getting the message across to the nation. With all the racial violence going on in 2015 between African Americans and police, this film couldn’t have come out at a better time. All through the film I kept thinking about what’s going on in 2015 - blacks getting killed for voting rights as they are getting killed today by police. Lives were lost even whites who believe in the cause.

The editing of the film was wonderful as the director interwove authentic black and white footage of the actual event in Selma. I just heard this morning on NPR that, “Take My Hand Precious Lord by Mahalia Jackson was Dr. King’s favorite hymn that was sung in the film. It was a long film but it didn’t seem like it because I received a history lesson about an important time in history.

The actor, David Oyelowo, who portrayed Dr. Martin Luther King was fantastic. As the actor said on David Letterman, he was born to play this role. I believe the Academy snubbed both the actor and director, Ava DuVernay for this film.

I hear other filmgoers say that, “Birdman” will get best picture, maybe but I didn’t like it as much as “Boyhood.” I agree it was a very different film; I did myself a disservice by seeing it alone because I had no one to discuss it with afterwards. In fact, I am still thinking about this film as people praise its genus. Michael Keaton was brilliant in the staring role and it will be a tough fight between him and Redmayne.

I love inventive films where you have to think through it where it isn’t so cut and dry. Using those critical thinking skills and decipher what the film was really about. I heard, “Birdman” was shot with a handheld camera and there was research in using a specific theater. You can feel the actors tension as the camera weaves back and forth through the tight corridors of the theater. Keaton was on David Letterman describing his experience while filming and I liked it more as he talked about it. Like I said, still thinking about it.

The last film I want to talk about briefly is “Whiplash.” I loved that film. It was energetic but dark where you got a real sense of what it’s like to attend a high-pressure, performing arts school. The actor, J. K. Simmons was amazing. He was brutal and in your face but fantastic as this high-demanding instructor. He throws things at his students and all they want to do is please him with bleeding fingers, playing for hours and hours showing their passion for music. You can feel the unbelievable pressure these students go through to be “the best.” I am not a big “jazz” fan but the music was fantastic as another character in the film. Tight editing when you felt the rise and fall of the lead character as the film progresses. I highly recommend this film. J. K. Simmons, hands down will get the supporting role for the Oscar.

There were other films I enjoyed such as “Cake” where Jennifer Aniston was also snubbed for an Oscars in this lead role. I am not a fan of Aniston but she was stellar. She created this character as someone that you can feel compassion for but scratch your head how she became so caustic. I like how the film leads the viewer through a path of the unknown until the very end – finally it all made sense. I like films as I previously said that isn’t explained perfectly where you have to think about it more.

I saw a lot of films from September till February when I finally saw Julianna Moore’s performance in “Still Alice.” She was amazing. Her anguish and forgetfulness was easily seen as the character goes from professor to patient trying to get through the day. I concur with the critics, she will win the Oscar. It was definitely not an uplifting film; scary and depressing as Moore portrays a woman with early onset Alzheimer’s disease.

I love film because of the creative process. Just like every objective medium, no one agrees with what you think. That is fine with me. That’s what makes it so much fun seeing what filmmakers do to get the audience’s attention. I hope I get a few predictions correct for my Oscar picks on February 22, 2015.

Next up: The Cleveland International Film Festival
My favorite event in March

http://www.clevelandfilm.org/

Finally - A New Blog for 2015 - Photography

It is Martin Luther King Day and this is the first opportunity I have sat down and written. It’s not like I haven’t had the time or interest. It’s what I think about every time I contemplate to write – what do I write about regarding art? I’ve attended some art related events: The Cleveland Museum of Art for instance – their monthly MIX events where there were hundreds of people jam packed into a gigantic atrium watching an elaborate fashion show. It was creative and inventive where designers were inspired by the newest exhibit, “Forbidden Games.” I didn’t see the exhibit until much later.

At first I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy “Forbidden Games” for I am not a surrealist fan. I took the chance that I might enjoy it. What I saw were these old, 1920s black and white photographs that were amazing – I was pleasantly surprised. Don’t be alarmed by the title, sometimes you’ll never know unless you go against what is comfortable. Experience something new and embrace the difference.

The Cleveland Museum of Art - "Forbidden Games"

These black and white photographs brought me back when I took my first photography class at Kent State University–film processing. I was excited and nervous at the same time. I loved photography but nervous if my compositions would be perceived as brilliant or just average. I shot rolls and rolls of film that summer – some images were great; some not so much. I was obsessed with the many different bridges in Cleveland so that was my final project – it turned out rather well if I must say.

I understand the relevance of digital pictures (I went to many photo-shoots when digital was in its infancy). It is wonderful when you can simply “delete” a photo when you shoot a crappy photo instead of shooting an entire roll of film, developing a contact sheet then finding out that there is one or two photos worth printing. For me, that is what was so wonderful about film, your contact sheet was always a surprise a dynamic shot you took or a mistake; How it was enlarged was also challenging – more light in, or less producing contrasting light and shadow. This was the creative process not done as well for digital. Many might not agree, and that is fine. I do miss it.

In the show there were “still life” images that I still remember several weeks later – empty men’s shoes on steps or a coffin factory where the viewers saw rows and rows of coffins neatly stacked. You don’t see the coffins right away but once you read the description, it’s easily identifiable.

These electronic images that are seen here were created via iPad at the museum, using a “layering technique” to produce different images. This might have been something unique to some museum goers, but for me this was not new. This process can be easily done using “Photoshop.”  In the 1930s, however, creating images with depth by layering many images or double exposing them was probably a more challenging process without the aid of a computer. I admire these old photographs for that reason.

Created  by Toni - The Cleveland Museum of Art -Dec. 2014

I can definitely discuss black and white photography for a very long time.

If you didn’t see “Forbidden Games,” it was worth a look; sorry it closed January 2015.

The Transformer Station has a wide range of unique photography solutions. Alison Rossiter who found “expired film papers” on eBay and developed them to see how it would work out.

Other tidbits:

December was filled with running from one local art fair to the next. There was the Screw Factory in Lakewood where I stood idle for a few minutes before I was able to move. Locally, that’s a good problem to have but for a shopper it was frustrating and intimidating. All the vendors had unusual products not seen in a “box store” but I just couldn’t get past the crowds. I wandered around not knowing what to buy, having a glazed look on my face – too many choices. What do I do? I end up buying stuff “just in case” I need a special gift down the road.

After I left the crazy crowd, I went up a flight of steps into an artists studio (Megan Frankenfield) and I found these contemporary paintings and/or photographs the filled the entire space. They were so unusual. The artist took photographs and cut them into squares then painted on top of them then transferred them onto canvas. Excitedly, I bought three at a bundled price.

One of the pieces I bought - iPhone photo (couldn't get rid of glare Photoshop)

I ran into that problem at the Pilgrim Church in Tremont. I walked around with my head cut off trying to find “the perfect” gift. What happened? I bought a few bracelets for myself and now that I look at them, “Why did I buy them?” I haven’t worn them nor do I have anyone who wears bracelets. More money down the drain.

With The Cleveland Museum of Art, Tremont and Waterloo art walks, Third Fridays at 78th Street Studio plus local artists all around town, there is always something new to experience in Cleveland. Winter is cold but you can still see great art indoors.

Transformer Station’s new exhibition now open: February 8 until May 2, 2015

Discovering Euclid with Bluestone Heights Tours

I wrote this post before I participated in November’s novel writing month or NanoWrimo. Now that we are well into December, darkness begins at five and even earlier if it’s cloudy. It’s still fall and tours can be done even in winter.



Fall is not my favorite time of year because it gets cooler and darkness sets in before seven. But, I try my best to get outdoors and view the changing landscape. What better way than to attend nature hikes by Roy Larick at Blue Stone Heights.

The first time I attended a Roy Larick hike was at the Euclid Cemetery two years ago. I grew up in Euclid and I was not exactly sure where the Euclid Cemetery was. Admittedly, I did a mapquest to find out the exact location. As with anything around my neighborhood, I have driven past this cemetery a hundred times along Euclid Avenue and I didn’t even know it. It was a hot July morning and Roy took us around many tombstones about important Euclid residents. There was a gentleman who had a winery in Euclid that was buried in this cemetery. I was hooked. Larick was so knowledgeable, a repository of facts about the subject matter that I learned so much about Euclid that I’m proud I grew up here.

Henn Mansion in Euclid's Sims Park photo from Bluestone Heights website

The second tour that I did was at Sims park in June 2013 where Larck spoke about Moss Point, the shale and rocks and building materials that wash up on the beach. Sims Park Beach particles is so different from Euclid Beach that is just a few miles west. We also walked through Sims park through the trees where there was an old house that used to reside but only the steps remains. Only on Larick’s tour do you find these “out of the way” discoveries that you would never see on your own.

Larick is passionate about keeping the environment in tact. With our shrinking populations, we should keep the wilderness without building more “box stores” that nobody wants. “We may rediscover unique natural and cultural legacies and regain interest in our special places.” Euclid is minutes from downtown, so we should build on its strength (such as the Lake Erie and affordable housing) to get more people to move here. There is so much rich history.

One of my favorite tours was hiking through the “Euclid Railroad” (off Euclid Avenue) where there were barren trees and vines that littered the ground that you needed a hiking stick to get through the “tight” pathway. This was wilderness at its best. There wasn’t much historical references it was more walking through a hidden place that I have never seen, hence why I try to attend these tours. It was a haven for “paint ball” games and debris than trying to preserve a hidden gem as this.

Everyone that attended enjoyed this “out of the way” place. We all grabbed branches to help us stay balanced. It was a challenge for me to keep my balance as I walked with my water bottle (that was a necessity since it was one of the hottest days in July).

Another gem was Greenwood Farm on Richmond Road that lies on top of the Euclid bluestone. I learned more about the different levels of rock as we head up towards Richmond Heights (bluestone that is a very hard rock that was quarried in 1800s and is distinctive to this region) and Cleveland and Chagrin shale as we head down. All the tours I have taken, I still get confused about the escarpments, and the network of the Euclid Creek east and main branches.

Greenwood farm was beautiful with 18.6 acres of natural resources that has been kept intact. The farm was bought in 2004 by the City of Richmond Heights from the last residing Phypers descendants (They bought it in 1908). The city added rain gardens and pervious pavers to keep the rain water on the property. The Euclid Creek is so close to the house that they want to keep erosion to a minimum. “The mission is to preserve the farm and grounds, and to promote local arts, culture, education and history.

The group descended towards the Euclid Creek with the water current rushing along the beautiful bluestone – you can get so close to the water that it was idllic. The brochure describes the “east branch gathers headwaters forced westward along the Euclid Moraine.” Basically, the Euclid Creek began from thousand of years ago from the last glacier generating many streams. Again, I never knew this farm existed and I was able to see something that has not been destroyed so close to where I live.

I have always believed in keeping our natural resources as a place to explore and see the beauty as an unobstructed place. These Larick tours has solidified my belief that nature should be saved and feature these areas to others who have not been on these tours. There are so many place in your neighborhood that are just as beautiful as other places out of Ohio. I thank Bluestone Heights for letting me explore these gems and learning a little bit of geology and meet others who are just as passionate as I am.

Bluestone Heights web site:

http://bluestoneheights.org/bsh/

This I Believe

I am finally reading, “This I Believe” that I received for my birthday. As I’m reading these eloquently written essays that people like John McCain, Newt Gingrich, Bill Gates, Helen Keller and Colin Powell wrote, I can’t help thinking about the things that I believe in. The list is long. I believe in so many things that it's hard to think about writing an essay on one thing. These are just a few of the things that I strongly believe in.

Lake Erie

I believe in Lake Erie that I have the privilege of living close to. I run along the shore and gaze in amazement this beautiful body of water that we depend on. It’s our lifeline. Without water, no one can survive. I adore the lake in summer and winter when I saw up close waves frozen in time during our below zero temperatures last year. I just stared; how can it freeze so quickly. 

This morning I saw a father and son carrying fishing poles, anxiously heading to the stream. During the summer months, many people hit the pier to catch some fish. So, I find it hard to comprehend that the same people litter Lake Erie with various items: plastic juice bottles, glass beer bottles, empty potato chip bags and broken fold-up chairs.

I try not to look and pretend this litter is not here. I constantly scratch my head and scream to myself as I pick the litter up and deposit it to the nearest recycle bin. Seriously! Don’t these people realize what they’re doing to this vital body of water? Choking our fish and other creatures that inhabit the lake. I find this act of ignorance so distressing. I try not to let it get to me but it’s difficult. 

Viktor Schreckengost's signature that I will treasure always

Books

I believe in books where I spend my workout time reading. I have dispensed with my iPod and find myself immersed in story after story as my breathing accelerates on the cross trainer. Admittedly, this is the only time that I “pencil-in” to read. 

My favorite books are nonfiction where I’ve read about politics, “The New, New Deal” to Mary Roach’s, “Gulp” and “I Am Malala” by Malala Yousafzai the 2014 winner of the Nobel Peace Prize where I’ve written some reviews on this blog post. I also have photography and art books where I enjoy looking at artwork by Rodin, Picasso and local artist Viktor Schreckengost where I remember standing in line at the Cleveland Museum of Art for him to sign my book. I will never forget that “firm handshake.”

I value the few books that I have signed: Scott Simon, “Baby, We Were Meant for Each Other” and Christo & Jeanne-Claude, “On the Way to The Gates.”  I love all books where I can learn and experience something new.

As long as I can remember, I’ve enjoyed reading. From the Dick and Jane books to “James and the Giant Peach.” It was my way to explore new adventures and escape my isolation. I let my mind wander and think. 

One summer when I was only seven, my family and I went to Greece. I completely forgot that I had a few books from the library sitting at home. I was frantic that I forgot to return the books before we left. When we got back home, I explained the situation and the librarian understood. “Phew,” I thought I would have to pay tons of money in overdue fines. I’m not sure why I didn’t bring the books with me.

As a child, I remember reading on the floor in our small dinning room overlooking the tiny backyard. I laid on my stomach reading for hours large picture books, turning the pages anxiously. I couldn’t wait to go back to the library and get more. 

I’m dumbfounded where my passion for books came from, neither my parents read. My dad looked at the newspaper and that’s about the extent of it.

As an Adult educator and book lover, I believe in life long learning and books.

Biking

I believe in my bike where I depend on my own power to get from point a to point b. I find it exhilarating to abandon my car when I volunteer at the Transformer Station on W 29 Street that is about an hour from my house. I pack a change of clothes in my backpack and bring plenty of water for my trek. I get excited when I breath the fresh air into my lungs and view the nearby landscape – trees, beautiful Bratenhal homes and the Urban Lambscape off East 55th as animals graze in the grass. 

I get a workout in and avoid racking up the miles in my car. I’ve saved miles and miles on my car as I pedal through the downtown streets. Sustainability is my mantra as SUV’s pass me by honking obnoxiously and giving me a dirty look. I’m wearing my helmet therefore, I can be on this road. Get over it!

I’ve been so inspired by reading, “This I Believe” that it gives me hope with all the ideas that people have put into words and verbalized on NPR. I’ve thought about doing an essay but have yet to do it. Maybe this is the push I need to get my ideas written.

I’m happy that I received this book for my birthday. If you can’t find a great idea for a gift, I’m always grateful to receive a book. 

Book:

This I Believe: The Personal Philosophies of Remarkable Men and Women

Web site: thisibelieve.org

Book Review Last year on "Gulp"

Tenth Anniversary Ingenuity Festival - September 26-28 2014

Ingenuity Website - Tesla Performance

One of my favorite event for the fall is Ingenuity. Since they were celebrating their Tenth Anniversary, I couldn’t wait to experience it. I walked down to Warehouse 32 through the outdoor Rock and Roll Hall of Fame path where I immediately saw vendors. A row of vendors and food trucks with an outdoor stage playing some wonderful music by Honeybucket. So far so good, I thought. I continued on and walked further where this wonderful path overlooking the lake was blocked off (This is where the festival was last year, right along the lake). Then I walked into Warehouse 32 and half the warehouse was closed off. 

What is going on I thought? Where is the festival? Did I walk pass the art and missed all the cool stuff? 

Nope! That was the entire festival - two band stages, a few food trucks and vendors selling T-shirts, dog bandanas, and nostalgic items (The Cleveland Flea). What happened to the festival that I looked forward to all year? 

That didn’t happen this year. I so disappointed that I was bored in about 30 minutes. I continued to walk toward the Science Center still thinking I missed it. Nothing blew me away. The only word that summed up my experience is “lame.” It looked like they through it together at the last minute. 

I only bumped into a few people that I knew - their expression was the same as mine. Where is the “ Ingenuity?”

I remember when they had the first Ingenuity under the Detroit Superior Bridge, I was in awe. They had artwork displayed in these nook and crannies. I walked back and forth in disbelief. What a cool space! What an inventive idea. That’s all I thought about.

I listened to bands from Brooklyn and dance performances under the bowels of the earth. Opera at the top of these old, dilapidated steps. Artwork hung in an old abandoned bathroom. Subway cars sitting idle and steps overflowing with water. It was mesmerizing. I can’t believe I’ve never been down here. I was tired but continued to walk in case I missed something. That’s Ingenuity of years past.

The first Ingenuity was along Euclid Avenue before Cleveland’s resurgence. There was a stage sitting in the middle of the street with wonderful performances. There was artwork in abandoned alleyways that you didn’t dare go to at night. Who knows who might be lurking in the shadows. That’s what made Ingenuity so special - it brought a festival to these out of the way places that you would never think would be cool! 

The first Ingenuity was a little spread out where they had artwork at the Galleria, which I think had a trolley car taking you there. I remember not going since it was out of the way. (I did go on a quiet Saturday afternoon, where East 12 was kind of spooky back then). Plus, I think the old AmeriTrust rotunda was open –I missed that too. My sister and I hung out along Euclid Avenue embracing this unusual event in the middle of Downtown. I have to applaud Thomas Mulready and James Levine for bringing this event into Downtown when many were afraid to come.

The following year, Ingenuity took East 4th Street by storm. There was nothing there except a few shops that nobody ever heard of. I remember sitting on a chair listening to a band on a dilapidated East 4th and looking to my left at an abandoned, open building where artwork was hung and performances going on. I was intrigued that someone had the vision to turn something so unappealing into an art venue. Again, that’s what Ingenuity was - bringing people to a place you’ve never been and seeing it in a new light. 

Year after year, Ingenuity brought you there. One year, I remember a group trying to save the old Ameritrust Tower that was designed by Marcel Breuer. It was in the old Cowell & Hubbard building that is now a Zack Bruell restaurant. That event opened my eyes to the importance of keeping this nostalgic building. In fact, my architecture friend participated in a march to “save the building” from the recking ball. Finally, I walked by there a few weeks ago and it is a high-end hotel, Metropolitan 9. Once nobody wanted this eyesore on Ninth Street, now it glistens as a new upcoming area. 

I experienced many unusual artists as I attended Ingenuity. Under the bridge was my favorite venue – my favorite art installation was by Qian where she embraced her Asian roots by having these red illuminated lanterns floating on water. I still remember this work after three years. It was so peaceful that it pulled my heart strings. 

I understand you can’t use The Bridge year after year – it will lose it’s effectiveness as a cool venue. But seriously, for Ingenuity’s Tenth Year Anniversary, they showed me nothing creative or inspiring that I have to tell everyone you must attend!  This was the same venue as the last two years. Couldn’t you surprise me with something that “blew me away” that I have not seen in the last ten years?  

The music was good; this electric, Tesla music where performers were in this booth and electricity was producing this cool sound; the band, Commonwealth was great. 

All I can say is, I should of stayed home.

Saving Ameritrust Tower

http://www.gcbl.org/projects/green-modernism-preserving-the-breuer-tower

Ingenuity History

http://ingenuitycleveland.com/history/

Summer with Max

Photo by Anna Chanakas at #ParadetheCircle

I spent much of this past summer with my sister’s dog, Max – a cocker-doodle. Max became a member of the family late February, officially adopted in March. As a rescue, we didn’t know what his past was so I couldn’t wait until the summer events began so he can experience some new smells. 

Max’s first event was Wade Oval Wednesday on June 11, 2014, to the musical performance of Coast2Coast. My sister brought Max at the end of Martin Luther King drive and I drove to the Cleveland Museum of Art’s lagoon. One thing about Max, he loves being outside. He knows when you get your shoes on and grab the leash, he is going out for a walk. He gets so excited that he jumps about a foot off the ground; he can’t sit still when you try to get he collar on. Eventually he calms down enough to clip the leash onto his collar – he anxiously pulls ahead to find his first smell. 

Me and Max went around the lagoon with his head down low, one inch above the ground. He was so excited about the lagoon that he walked right then left – there was so much to take in. I was just as excited as he was. I enjoyed watching him tour the lagoon grounds. 

Max in his new Bed 

It was somewhat awkward since I had to carry my fold-up chair and food for the little guy; then I had to maneuver the leash to make sure Max didn’t get too close to the crowd. 

We sat back behind the crowd. I didn’t want Max to invade other people’s space. This outdoor venue was new to him. His nose was going crazy with all the food smells. He pulled on the leash trying to taste some sausage and peppers. To Max’s point, it did smell delicious. With all the people around, Max did well. 

The second thing about Max – he is a people magnet. I was walking Max around the perimeter of the oval and the next thing I know a little girl appears and says, “Can I pet your dog?” I was taken aback. Max was somewhat anxious and I told the girl and her mother, “Let him smell you.” The girl pet his back carefully and Max jerked some. I knew all this excitement was just too much for him. I told them Max is a rescue and we better keep on walking. They were fine with that and they continued on. “Thank you,” they said.

Another woman said, “What kind of dog is that? I told her the type of dog Max was and she couldn’t believe it. She said she had the same exact dog and his name was Max also. She also said that he lived for sixteen years. That sounds good to me. Everyone that stopped me said, “He is just so cute.” Yep, the entire summer – Max got all the cutie points. 

The next venue, Parade the Circle. This time my sister attended and we walked down MLK to the Parade. Max was excited and anxious at the same time. It was a cool June so I wore layers of clothing. Max was getting a little better when he saw other dogs – he didn’t growl at all of them, just the ones larger than him. I didn’t spend that much time with Max at the Parade since it was my sister’s dog and she wanted to “show him off.” They got close to the parade where bold Max wanted to see so he put his paws onto someone else’s cooler. So cute!

One of my favorite events in July is the Cleveland Museum of Art Ohio City Stages at the Transformer Station. They were a success last year with a crowded West 29 Street. Everyone was out – dogs, children, Great Lakes beer and food trucks. And yes, Max was by my side for all five of those concerts. What is so interesting about these concerts unlike anything else in town was the versatility - one of my favorites was, Conjunto Chappottin y Sus Estrellas. They were from Cuba (top Cuban son groups on the latin music scene)Cuban  and didn’t speak too much English but the music overpowered the entire street. Everyone was out either dancing, eating or taking in the music. July went so fast. 

Max sat by my chair and trying to get his share of snacks. The girls I sat with toted pretzels, tiny sausages, nuts and fruit. Max knows that if he “sits” he will get rewarded with a treat. Everyone loved him so he got his snacks. We were all pushovers. 

Max also got more comfortable with other dogs. He sniffed and they responded. I think this year was even more special than last because it was a new experience as Max won our hearts. 

Who doesn’t just love summer! I’m counting the days until next year. 

My entire summer I tried to include Max in as many outdoor events as possible. Mostly it was Wade Oval Wednesdays and the Ohio City Stages music venue. I just enjoyed being outdoors listening to music and meeting new people. Life is better with a dog as you see things how they might see them. Their excitement spills over into your own. 

What can I say, I’m so proud when someone asks, “What kind of dog is that? He’s just so stinkin’ cute.” 

One Car, One Bike

Logo design - Toni J. Chankas

The past few weeks, my sister and I have been sharing “One Car and One Bike” to get around. It’s not as easy as it sounds. All I can say is, you have to be organized and bring the necessary items you need for the rest of the evening. For example, when you switch from your car to your bike, you will need your wallet and house keys; then stow away your purse in the trunk and retrieve it later when you get your car back. 

We take our car for granted as a storage unit for extra shoes, sweater, gym bag and yoga mat. You have to relinquish all that when you transfer from car to bike. You now have to carry everything with you and if you want to stop off at the store, you can’t unless you have a place to put your groceries. I, on the other hand, don’t have a basket or any extra bags on my bike; most of the time I ride with a backpack and store the items I will need. 

One Friday night, I met my sister at Felice in the Larchmerre district – I drove; she biked; then, I lent her the car and I biked home. I had to make sure I had my helmet and biking pants to endure the bumpy road home. I also had to be cognizant of the time– when does it get dark? And give myself enough time to get home before then. Hence, you don’t have time to grab a bite to eat because that takes time – I drank a beer quickly and then I was off. Honestly, it felt liberating to bike with the fresh air upon my face as I maneuvered through the traffic. 

I’m a crazy fool because I take the shortest route possible so I ride through East Cleveland. Many of my friends think I’m nuts. Probably, but I’ve taken the route so many times that it doesn’t occur to me that something might happen. As long as I ride in the daylight – I’m good.

Ha, Ha I thought as I rode past SUV’s and cars that take up an entire lane; at least I’m not wasting gas and polluting the environment. It was okay for a few weeks and I got some good exercise in. 

What is frustrating, however, is all the honking and drivers looking at you like your an idiot for invading “their space!” One driver yelled at me for being in the road. She honestly thought that bikers are not allowed in the street. Another person beeped so loud that they thought I had no clue they were behind me. I ride with my ears; meaning I do not wear ear buds. They whiz past you without much clearance. Scary!

Drivers have become bold and hate when they see bikers.”Get over it,” I think. You will be seeing more of us. 

Before my sister needed my car, I’ve tried to bike when I can especially my volunteer stint at the Transformer Station on West 29. Most of the time, I volunteer on Saturday so I bike it. As I stressed above, you have to bring everything with you. This means a change of clothing because most of the time I can’t bike 12 miles with a pair of shorts – biking shorts are a necessity; trust me.

Why do I bike? As I’ve become older, I think a lot about the environment and my carbon footprint. If I can reduce it by a tiny bit on a Saturday or Sunday, then I will do it. As I stated above, I have to add more time to my destination. Much of the time it’s very windy that I almost turn back and get my car – a very easy habit. I hang tough and continued pedaling. Once I get to my destination – I feel successful that I got there by my own power. 

As I ride, I think about the week’s past and what I need to accomplish. I look at the tiny details that is normally overlooked as you drive past at 35 MPH. Going back to East Cleveland, I see the city as it once was – a thriving metropolis with old architectural details that is not built now. All we have is glass and flat board without anything innovative where you say to yourself, “Wow that’s a gorgeous building.” Mostly it’s boring!

What I learned from the biking experience is that you can get to your destination by other modes of transportation – bike and/or bus. I wish I had a short commute where I can use my bike more during the week but I do what I can. I also value my rusted, older car that I have providing my short commute and allowing me to cart my crap. 

My sister finally bought her new car and I have my car back. I will continue to bike; it is doubtful she will borrow my bike again. That’s fine with me. I will cherish the two weeks that I biked a few extra days and breathing the last of the summer breeze. 

Next bike trip, One World Festival at the Cultural Gardens September 13 and 14, 2014.