Strongsville 2023

We pioneer motion Schaeffler’s Automotive Aftermarket operations are on the move to Strongsville!

We’re excited to be a part of the community Schaeffler’s Automotive Aftermarket division is a leading partner to the automotive and commercial vehicle original-equipment and replacement parts markets. But more than that, Schaeffler has a proud 45+ year history of manufacturing and employment right here in Ohio. Together, Schaeffler and our dedicated team, deliver a full lineup of repair solutions for transmission, engine, and chassis applications in North America and throughout the world. With the LuK, INA, and Schaeffler product brands — as well as the REPXPERT comprehensive services for repair shops — we look forward to keeping Strongsville working strong. Visit www.schaeffler.us for more information about our company.

For current employment opportunities, please visit jobs.schaeffler.com

Gratitude, pureness of heart, living in peace and prosperity with altruistic intentions: these principles laid the foundation upon which Sheng Long Yu established the first Shinto location in October 2004 in Strongsville.

“We’re always striving to be a leader in the Cleveland dining scene,” says Brittany Swan, general manager of Shinto. “We have been very fortunate over the years and have worked very hard to overcome industry challenges. In 2020, we opened our second Shinto Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar in Westlake.”

Shinto features an extensive bar area, big screen TV’s, a newly designed, full-service sushi bar, and a vibrant, high-energy dining experience. It’s award-winning, highly inventive Asian-Fusion fare is nicely complemented by craft cocktails and sake flights. Shinto also features a newly renovated, four-season patio. It is fully heated, covered, and the botanical garden environment is aesthetically relaxing. Custom menus are available. Available for private events including showers, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations and more. Call to book today!

As they say in Japan, Kanpai!

Hours are Monday-Thursday, 3:30-10:00 p.m. Friday, 3:30-10:30 p.m. Saturday, 2:00-10:30 p.m. Sunday, 2:00-9:00 p.m.

Visit ShintoExperience.com

ON THE COVER: The Town Center Enhancement and Walkability Initiative will create

This is an Image Builders Marketing Inc.™ Trademark Publication created and produced for the City of Strongsville, Ohio.

Thomas P. Perciak, Mayor

Copyright © 2023, All rights reserved. Image Builders Marketing, Inc. 440-346-4482

www.ImageBuildersMarketing.us

Additional copies are available at participating sponsors or at: Strongsville Municipal Offices 16099 Foltz Pkwy., Strongsville, Ohio 44149 440-580-3100

Chamber of Commerce 18829 Royalton Rd. Strongsville, Ohio 44136 440-238-3366

Or view the book online at: www.Strongsville.org or www.strongsvilleOH.us

To advertise in the next edition, call: 440-346-4482 or email bkimagebuilder@outlook.com

President & Publisher

BERNICE P. KALDY

Business Manager

MARY DODGE

Editor

LAURA LAKNER

Art Director & Production Manager

GAIL HARTMAN

Production Coordinator ANDREA BARTEL

Designers

JUDY BEVERIDGE, KATIE HOWARD

Photography CITY OF STRONGSVILLE ILER AERIAL IMAGING

Writers

KEN McENTEE

Vice President, Sales

SCOTT HUGHES

Community Consultant

ALEX DRELLISHAK

Map

LAURA KALDY

Image Builders Marketing, Inc. would like to extend a special thank you to all the business organizations and individuals who take an active and enthusiastic role in the Strongsville Image Book & Community Guide, especially our advertisers who provide the financial support to make this a successful community project. We hope that you enjoy the informative features contained in this publication and will keep it as a reference guide for community and advertiser information.

No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without the written permission of the publisher. Advertisements and listings in this publication are provided as a public service. Image Builders Marketing, Inc. is not responsible for errors or omissions, and inclusion does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation.

Welcome to Strongsville

Our community may be a vibrant suburb of nearly 45,000 residents, but it has retained the feel of a small hometown driven by family and community pride. A strong sense of community camaraderie and the caring support of neighbors define the Strongsville way of life.

Strongsville is a cohesive community of parents, seniors, business people, civic organizations, faith-based groups and many others who work together to make the town an ideal place to live, work and raise a family.

Few towns can match Strongsville’s diverse balance of modern amenities, abundant parks and recreational opportunities — all in a location that offers convenient access to anywhere.

While the city’s tax base and general fund are driven by a strong roster of light manufacturing facilities and corporate offices that employ thousands of talented people,

our bustling retail and service regions provide myriad convenient dining and shopping options for Strongsville residents. The generous sponsorship of those businesses — many which are local, family-owned operations — provide an essential part of the Strongsville way of life. Their generous sponsorship has made this annual Strongsville Image Book and Community Guide possible.

Please consider patronizing them when you go out to shop and dine.

Now in its 21st year, the annual Strongsville Image Book & Community Guide is an anticipated and valued reference that celebrates some of our town’s leaders and leading businesses. Whether you are a resident, a Strongsville business owner or a visitor, I’m confident that this magazine will help you to better familiarize yourself with our wonderful community.

Sincerely,

Focused On The Future

A highway traveler driving into Strongsville may first experience the city’s vibrant shopping, dining and service areas.

But community residents, while appreciating the abundance of convenient amenities, may also tend to cherish the more leisurely, family focused aspects of the town, represented largely by numerous parks and recreation areas.

“There isn’t a better balance of business and recreational amenities than you’ll find here in Strongsville,” insisted Mayor Thomas Perciak, noting the myriad youth sports, arts, scouting and other activities available to kids and adults.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the size of Strongsville’s green space alone is larger than the entirety of many full cities in western Cuyahoga County. Most notable among the park spaces is the Cleveland Metroparks Mill Stream Run reservation, which nearly bisects the town from the northwest to the southeast. Perciak calls it the “jewel of the city.”

This year, construction is expected to begin on another recreational area that will transform the town center area that spans from the Walter F. Ehrnfelt Recreation & Senior Center to the iconic Strongsville Commons, which serves as the venue for Strongsville’s most popular community gathering events, like the holiday Winter Wonderland and Christmas lighting ceremony, the Strongsville Chamber of Commerce’s summer Homecoming Festival, the Strongsville City Club’s annual Rib Burnoff and Arts in Strongsville’s Art & Chalk Walk event for budding artists of the future.

The Town Center Enhancement and Walkability Initiative will create a walkable community gathering place that will include a public pavilion, a splash pad, a new all inclusive playground, courts for tennis, pickleball and other sports and a food truck area. The new recreational areas, to be located just west of the senior center and adjacent to the Strongsville Backyard Preserve nature trails, will connect to the Commons via a stroll along the town’s Freedom Trail and

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past the Strongsville Historical Village and the Strongsville branch of the Cuyahoga County Library — the busiest branch in the county.

The project, which Perciak said has been “a long time coming,” is the result of cooperation and partnerships among public agencies, civic organizations and the faith community, which Perciak said work in cooperation to make Strongsville a better place to live and raise families. Adding to county, state, regional and federal grants, organizations like the Rotary Club of Strongsville, the Strongsville Chamber of Commerce, the Strongsville City Club and Southwest General Health Center made contributions to the project.

The project began with a survey of residents, the mayor recalled. “We did a survey to assess the needs of the community and to find out what was important to residents,” he said. “An outdoor pool or splash pad was a high priority. Many people pointed out that the existing Castletown playground is outdated and needs work to make it more usable for children with disabilities, so it’s going to be replaced with the latest equipment. Those are two of the major components of the Town Center project.”

The pavilion, Perciak said, is another important part of the project. “Years ago people never dreamed of having a wedding in an outdoor pavilion, but today it is very popular,” he said.

“This will give people a fresh air venue for weddings, graduations and other parties.”

Construction is expected to start in the spring and should take about a year to complete, Perciak said. “It will be a big new piece to what is already an ideal community,” he said. “Although Strongsville is one of the most populous cities in Cuyahoga County, it still has the feel of a small home town community.”

Because of the growth of the city’s business sector, income tax collections — which account for the bulk of its general fund — have increased from $29 million in 2012 to almost $41 million in 2021, without raising the city’s two percent tax rate, Perciak noted. “That’s why economic development is so important,” he said. “The growth in our tax base allowed us to continue to deliver services, even during bad times like the pandemic. We’re proud of the services we provide. We spend half our budget on safety, which is another reason why people want to live in Strongsville.”

Among 59 cities in Cuyahoga County, Perciak said, Strongsville’s appraised real estate value is second only to Cleveland’s. “We have 16,000 homes, compared to Cleveland’s 112,000 homes, and our valuation is higher than cities like Parma, which has almost double the number of homes we have,” he said. “Buying a home in Strongsville has proven to be an excellent investment.”

A Flurry of Activity

A new restaurant in town is always sure to set social media abuzz. And there has been plenty to post about in Strongsville during the past year, noted Brent Painter, the city’s director of economic development. “We’ve seen a lot of dining and retail space fill up,” Painter said. “The Chamber of Commerce has been very busy with its ribbon cuttings.”

construction and expansions last year we had project after project after project going on,” Painter said. “During the last three or four months of 2022 alone, we had announcements of more than 500 new jobs in our business parks. That would normally be considered a great number for a full year.”

Significantly, Painter said, Strongsville is drawing attention from companies around the world. “It’s been awesome to see a global presence here, with companies like CCL, of Canada, and Schaeffler USA, of Germany, setting up divisions and North American headquarters here in Strongsville,” Painter said.

Painter said the city’s location at the crossroads of two major interstate trucking routes, its pro-business philosophy and the infrastructure to support manufacturing operations are among the reasons why the city’s four business parks outperformed most others in the region. “We’ve had some desirable buildings available and we have strived over the years to maintain a solid reputation as a city that wants to work to help our business community prosper,” he said.”

From a flurry of new Mexican and Southwestern restaurants and burger joints to Asian cuisine and dessert shops, Strongsville, more than ever before, offers myriad fine dining and carryout options to satisfy just about any palate.

But tucked away from the heavy traffic, on roads less frequently traveled, light industrial businesses and corporate offices generate the bulk of the city’s income tax revenue. “Eighty-two percent of the city’s general fund revenue comes from income tax collections, and the majority of the income tax comes from our business parks,” Painter explains.

Like the thriving retail and dining sector, Painter said the city’s business parks boomed in 2022. “Between new

Amenities that make a town desirable to working families also are an important factor, Painter said. “Businesses today want to be able to recruit from a talented workforce, so being in a town where people want to live has become more important than ever,” he said. “We have a lot of amenities in town, from the restaurants and shopping to recreational areas like the Cleveland Metroparks and the new Town Center project that will soon be under construction. Those types of things help employers when they are looking to build their workforce. Strongsville is truly a place where people want to live and work.”

Painter said the number and diversity of businesses in Strongsville helps to protect the city from reliance on one or two major employers. None of the city’s largest employerswhich include PNC Bank, Cleveland Clinic and the Strongsville City Schools – contributes more than three percent of its income

tax base. “Some cities’ biggest employer accounts for a higher percentage of tax revenue than our top 25 combined,” he says. “That puts a city in a real bind if that company moves or goes out of business.”

Among the major business park projects completed or underway as the calendar flipped to 2023 was the announced expansion of Momentive Technologies manufacturing facility and global headquarters. Momentive, a global provider of advanced materials technology serving the semiconductor industry, is in an ideal position to supply the Intel plant that is now under development near Columbus, Painter said. “They’re really critical to the growth of semiconductors in this area,” he said. Momentum said the expansion is expected to result in almost 100 new jobs.

Among the other notable projects that were completed or started in 2022 were:

• Infinium Walls new 120,000 square foot corporate headquarters in the Strongsville Business & Technology Park, become fully operational. The $10.4 million investment is expected to result in several hundred new jobs, the company said.

• Construction started on CCL’s new 105,700 square foot North American headquarters in the Strongsville Business & Technology Park. With an $11 million investment, about 250 jobs will be retained in Strongsville, with about 132 more expected to be added.

• New York-based Mechanical Rubber, a producer of rubber, plastic and metal materials used in the defense, industrial and transportation markets, purchased an 80,000 square foot manufacturing facility. The company is the third largest manufacturer of bus door and window seals in the U.S.

• Schaeffler, a global manufacturer of aftermarket auto parts, relocated its North American business to Strongsville with the lease of a 250,000 square foot office and distribution facility.

• CertainTeed, a construction material manufacturer, leased a 109,000 square foot manufacturing plant.

• Swagelok Co., a Solon-based manufacturer of fluid system products, continued to grow its Strongsville facility, committing to creating 75 new jobs.

Painter said Strongsville is a member of the Aerozone Alliance, a hub of innovation in the arena of aerospace and smart manufacturing based its proximity to the NASA Glenn Research Center and Cleveland Hopkins Airport.

“Our master plan says we should play a regional role in economic development, and this is one of the bigger regional attempts to spur economic development,” he said. “The idea of the alliance is to develop a master plan to see whether we can leverage NASA and the airport and our strategic locations to create jobs.”

Positive and Proactive

The Strongsville Police Youth Academy (SPYA) is an interactive program between our community youth and the police, designed to facilitate a mutual understanding between the police officer and the student. We believe the experience allows students and police officers to meet and interact in a positive, proactive setting.

Purpose of the Academy:

Is to facilitate a better understanding, through education and dialogue, between students and our officers. This experience will serve to dispel suspicions and misconceptions students may have about the police in general. The academy will create a growing nucleus of responsible, well-informed students regarding police services.

By providing students with insight into the Strongsville

Police Department (SPD), we sincerely hope to promote a partnership and an interest in pursuing a career path toward law enforcement with the Strongsville Police Department.

Who Can Attend the Strongsville Police Youth Academy?

The SPYA is open to all qualifying Strongsville High School students in their senior year. Each student must successfully pass an application process to attend.

What is the Curriculum Like?

It’s a 30-hour course, one day a week for three hours over 10 weeks. Lessons utilize interactive teaching methods that provide similar information found in a traditional basic police academy without the physical rigors associated with an accredited academy. The curriculum consists of both classroom and real-world scenario applications. Topics include:

u Introduction & Welcome / Overview of The Police Department Structure

u Laws of Arrest, Search & Seizure

u Traffic Stops, Accident Investigation

u Use of Force / Pursuits

u Operating Vehicle Under The Influence

u Community Opioid Outreach Program

u Detective Bureau, Criminal Investigations

u K9

u Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT)

u Active Threat Response Options

u Recruitment / Police training

u Preparation For A Career At The SPD

u Professional Dispatcher

u Correction Officer

What Does It Cost?

The classes are provided at no cost to the student!

How Do You apply?

To Be Determined

Point of Contact:

Strongsville Police Department

ATTN: Sgt. Steve Piorkowski

18688 Royalton Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136

Steven.Piorkowski@strongsville.org • Office: 440-580-3253

and Emergency Services

Strongsville Fire and Emergency Services (SFES) is an all-hazards emergency response organization that mitigates incidents by providing fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, and technical rescue services. Additionally, SFES provides many non-emergency functions such as: emergency management, fire prevention,

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Sales/Service/Supportfor:

Supporting Businesses since 1994

CITY OVERVIEW

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and public outreach and education programs.

As part of our role in emergency management planning for the City of Strongsville, Strongsville Fire along with several other local, county, state, and federal agencies participated in a table top communications exercise and a full-scale operational exercise to test and evaluate our capabilities to respond to an active threat incident.

Strongsville Fire is a member of the Southwest Emergency Response Team (SERT). SERT is comprised of fire rescue professionals from 18 communities and two regional agencies that combine their resources to handle specialized rescues, hazardous materials response, and fire investigations. Strongsville Fire has 15 members across all disciplines; several members hold leadership roles.

Strongsville Fire has a strong commitment to the community and as such we have worked hard to address the needs of the elderly, the less-fortunate, and individuals with special needs through our Community Outreach Services. Through referrals from EMS providers, police officers, family members and other community affiliates we can evaluate each resident’s unique situation, identify their life challenges and coordinate multiple available resources. This allows our residents to live life with dignity in a safe environment.

We also offer a variety of other services such as: first aid and CPR classes, fire extinguisher training, home fire safety inspections, residential lock boxes, smoke alarm installation, public education for children and adults, and station tours.

City of Strongsville Financials

As you can see from the gure above, only a small portion of the property taxes a citizen pays actually supports the City. The majority of the property tax revenues supports the Strongsville City School District, followed by support for County functions. The percentages calculated were based on the e ective residential rates.

December 15, 2022

Moody's Investors Service has assigned a "Aaa rating" to the City of Strongsville, the highest rating possible.

The City of Strongsville is one of 15 Moody's Aaa rated communities in the State of Ohio (as of October 8, 2020)

Your New Financial Director

Strongsville Finance Director

Eric Dean officially took head of the department January 1st, 2022 after serving and training under previous director Joe Dubovec for nearly two months. Dean began his career after earning his accounting degree from Hiram College by working as an auditor for James G. Zupka CPA Inc., a government- focused audit firm. Following that position, Dean became the assistant finance director in the City of Maple Heights from 2006-2010 and took over as finance director from 2010-2014. Prior to Strongsville, Dean served as the finance director for North Royalton from 2014-2021. Eric Dean’s strong academic background and range of experience made him the perfect candidate for the position and properly prepared him to manage Strongsville’s large budget and population. His work here has already been impactful, and the city looks forward to his continued service.

The Strongsville Chamber of Commerce Is

“Taking Care of Business!”

The Strongsville Chamber of Commerce, established in 1941 and one of the largest Chambers in the State of Ohio, continues to provide its members opportunities vital to their success and to be a part of the framework of the community as it continues to grow. The Chamber offers a convenient way to meet new people, locate business opportunities, and access a vast array of information.

All members of the Chamber receive emails and newsletters as well as a listing in our web membership directory. Membership benefits include Grand Openings, Ribbon Cuttings, Newsletters, Monthly Luncheon meetings, Business After Hours events, Business Expo, and much more. The Chamber also provides opportunities for members to send email blasts, post job openings and special events on the Chamber website. Group discounts for health insurance and Workers Compensation

are available through NOACC (Northern Ohio Chamber of Commerce).

This past December, the Strongsville Chamber of Commerce hosted the 55th Annual Holiday Scholarship Dance. The proceeds from the Holiday Scholarship Dance go toward awarding scholarships to Strongsville high school seniors. For many years, the Chamber has contributed the highest number of scholarships, with the highest dollar value, of any local organization. A donation is also made to the St. Joseph and John School Media Center.

The Strongsville Homecoming Festival was a huge success in 2022 thanks to the efforts of countless volunteers and many generous sponsors. The proceeds from the Homecoming Festival benefit numerous Strongsville organizations and community events, such as the Achievement Centers for Children – Camp Cheerful, Fall Festival, Arts in Strongsville, Community Band, Ehrnfelt Recreation Center programs, Excellence in Athletics Turf field project, Rotary Club, Strongsville Historical Society, Strongsville Education Foundation, Strongsville Football Backers, Strongsville’s July 4th fireworks display, Winter Wonderland, the building of the Strongsville Food Bank and many more. Meet you on the Commons for the 81st Annual Homecoming Festival, July 12-15, 2023!

The Strongsville Chamber of Commerce is located at 18829 Royalton Road, just across from the Commons. For more information, call 440-238-3366 or visit www.strongsvillechamber.com Contact us and join the Chamber today!

Dear Parents and Community Members:

It is my honor and privilege to serve as Strongsville City Schools’ Superintendent. Our District serves more than 5,600 students and consists of one preschool, five elementary schools (grades K-5), one middle school (grades 6-8) and one high school (grades 9-12). Through our goals of Academic Achievement & Growth, Financial Prudence, and Community Engagement, we are building a District of excellence and innovation and will continue our drive in becoming a premier District in the region and state.

These goals help to guide our work and ensure that we are preparing our students for the many paths they will follow after graduation from Strongsville High School. Whether it is continuing their education in a college/university setting, beginning their journey in a career, or serving in a branch of our military, students are developing the durable skills necessary to be successful and meaningful contributors to society. Twenty-seven Advanced Placement courses, sixteen honors courses, and eleven Industrial Technology courses are just a few of the choices students have in our robust curriculum offerings.

Remaining fiscally responsible with the funding and resources entrusted to us is of the highest importance to our District. As a District, we will be able to meet and exceed our commitment to the community to be financially stable through 2026-27 due to this stewardship by creating additional efficiencies to maximize the funding received. The efforts of our Treasurer’s Office have not gone unnoticed – they have received the Association of School Business Officials International Meritorious Budget Award for six straight years, recognizing excellence in preparation and presentation of our District’s budget, and have also been recognized for the third straight year with the 2021 Auditor of State Award with Distinction for its Financial Audit.

Without our community’s support, Strongsville Schools would not be where it is today. We have extremely engaged parents and community members, who collaborate with our teachers to support their students. Our PTA Council, PTA building units, Strongsville Education Foundation, and various booster groups continue to be intimately involved through fundraisers, volunteer hours, financial grants, and scholarships to support the work of our students and teachers inside and outside of the classroom at each grade level. Our local civic organizations and business community are also great advocates and partners, as we continue to develop additional ways for these organizations to participate in the growth and development of our students.

Our goal at Strongsville City Schools is to build and strengthen a collaborative atmosphere, dedicated to always working in the best interest of our students. We need you as a partner for our District to continue reaching our shared goal of excellence for our students and community. We appreciate the important connections being made between our schools, students, teachers, staff, and our overall community.

I look forward to working with our parents and community in the coming year. If I can be of any assistance, please contact me at 440.572.7010 or cryba@scsmustangs.org. You can also visit our website (www.strongnet.org) for additional information about our District. Go Mustangs!

EDUCATION

Rigorous, Diverse, and Student Focused

• More than 5,600 students participate in exciting classroom environments supported by an accredited, comprehensive curriculum, diverse student activities and clubs, engaging teachers, and committed support staff

• “The Model Mustang” is the District’s instructional plan, creating opportunities for our students to be innovative, resilient, collaborative, global, and empowered learners. The Model Mustang provides focus for all of our students (PreK-12) in developing essential skills for life-long success.

• Award winning instructional, instrumental, and vocal programs

• A comprehensive high school curriculum, including twenty-seven (27) Advanced Placement course offerings and sixteen (16) Honors Courses

• College admission test scores above state and national average

• Four (4) National Merit Scholarship Finalists for the 2021-22 school year

• Athletics: State and Regional championships in boys’ and girls’ sports

• The District was one of the first school districts in North east Ohio to be named a Google for Education Reference District. This designation recognizes school districts that have demonstrated excellence and thought leadership through the innovative use of technology.

The School Community Connection

• Strongsville High School has partnered with local business representatives to form a Business Advisory Council. This group is working to develop in classroom and out of classroom experiences to prepare our students for successful professional careers from courses that build communications skills, to field trips to local organizations, to shadowing, mentoring, and internship opportunities.

• The District has formed a Diversity Council, composed of parents, teachers, staff, administrators, and community members to continue to improve our efforts, in terms of staff, curriculum, and additional ways to embrace and celebrate the growing diversity of our District.

• Cooperative PTA Council, assisting and supporting all of our schools to enrich every student’s educational experience. This support includes PTA grants and scholarships, as well as volunteering in our schools.

• Several parent booster organizations support student opportunities and experiences, both inside and outside of the classroom.

• Partnership with the Strongsville Education Foundation, dedicated to raising and disbursing funds to support and foster creativity, innovation, and outstanding achievement for SCS students and teachers.

Facilities

• Safe and well-maintained facilities and grounds include one (1) preschool, five (5) neighborhood elementary schools (grades K-5), one (1) middle school (grades 6-8), and one (1) high school (grades 9-12) with planetarium

• Contemporary athletic facilities including synthetic turf fields at middle school and high school

• Up-to-date technology providing secure wireless access to school and student devices, interactive whiteboards in classrooms, and 1:1 ratio of Chromebooks to students

Finances

• Nationally recognized financial reporting for six straight years:

u Recipient of the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) Meritorious Budget Award for budget presentation

u Recipient of the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting for the District’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)

uRecipient of the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the District’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)

• Strongsville City Schools has received an enhanced credit opinion from Moody’s Investor Service - improving to Aa1, which is the second highest rating that can be earned. This credit opinion is based on the district’s strong financial position, the continued support of our community, and the strong financial stewardship of the district.

District Awards

• Strongsville City Schools earned a spot in the top 5% of school districts in Ohio based on the State Report Card results for 2022. Of the five components measured in this year’s new evaluation, our District received the highest rating in three components, and the second highest rating in two components.

• Strongsville High School Ranked #51 In Ohio on the U.S. News “Best High School” Annual Listing for 2022.

• For nine straight years, Strongsville City Schools has been honored with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation from The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. In 2022, Strongsville was one of 738 school districts nationwide, one of 47 school districts in Ohio, and one of just 16 school districts in Northeast Ohio that received this prestigious award from NAMM.

• Whitney Elementary School and Strongsville High School have both received Purple Star designation from the Ohio Department of Education in past years. This designation recognizes military-friendly schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to our nation’s military.

Career Success!

At Polaris Career Center, we provide real-world learning opportunities for middle school, high school and adult education students. Our career-technical programs are offered at both our Middleburg Heights campus and at satellite locations throughout our partner communities.

We serve more students than ever before - we offer innovative, hands-on programs that appeal to students from middle school age to adult education. We also provide students access to training and industry certifications that open the door to exciting careers right here in Northeast Ohio.

We partner with over 300 advisory council members (business owners, graduates, higher education partners and community organizations) to ensure our programs are relevant and meet or exceed employer expectations. In addition, we connect with colleges and universities which link Polaris students to FREE or reduced cost college credit. As a result, more than 70% of Polaris high school students pursue higher education.

These are exciting times at Polaris. Our Middleburg Heights campus boasts 257,000 square feet of state-of-the-art teaching and learning spaces, all designed to prepare Polaris high school and adult students for the careers of today AND tomorrow.

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Consider career-technical education, prepare for the challenges that lie ahead and achieve career success at Polaris Career Center! To find out more, call 440.891.7600 or visit www.polaris.edu.

#PolarisMeansJobs

#PolarisMeansJobs

WHEN EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE MATTER

Even though dental offices can be found on almost every corner, exceptional practices are diamonds in the rough. And yes, Aerni Dental is one of those extraordinary diamonds.

Practicing for over 30 years, Dr. William Aerni is a general dentist who also performs dental implants and orthodontics. He’s an out-ofthe-ordinary type of dentist who takes the time to listen to his patients and is never in a hurry.

A graduate from Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Aerni earned the distinguished Robert James Award in recognition of his dedication to the pursuit of excellence in general dentistry and implantology. To this day, his mission is to provide the Gold Standard of Care to each patient and to leave them feeling happier, healthier, and more confident. To keep himself and his team at the top of their game, they pursue countless hours of continuing education–far more than is required.

Transparency, that is what I absolutely love about Dr. Aerni and his staff. Any recommendations are backed up with photos that clearly demonstrate the necessity of the recommended service. Technology, second to none, Dr. Aerni stays on top of what is new on the market and brings it to his clients. It is incredible how much can be accomplished in a single visit that used to take multiple visits. Education, they are great at explaining what it takes to have a good oral hygiene routine at home also.” – Leigh Anne B.

To achieve the Gold Standard of Care for each patient, Dr. Aerni designed a world-class facility with state-of-the-art technology so patients could have all their needs met in one location. He chose to build his practice overlooking the Metroparks because he wanted his patients to be able to experience the calming beauty of nature while receiving the best dental care available.

In addition to having his office in Strongsville, Dr. Aerni and his wife raised their five children here too. As a family man, he understands the challenges and pressures families face. It’s one of the reasons why he is passionate about Tip Edge orthodontics. He believes it’s the most comfortable, quickest, and cost effective way to achieve that beautiful smile for a lifetime.

While not all dental practices offer dental implants, it’s been a

common procedure at Aerni Dental for over 29 years. Dr. Aerni has the experience you won’t find at most general dentist practices. He became a highly skilled implant surgeon by learning from the pioneers in the industry. Names you most likely never heard of, but dentists who are among the “who’s who” in dental implants.

Investing in the latest technology for better patient outcomes has always been what sets Aerni Dental apart from other dental practices. New technology to Aerni Dental is LANAP® Laser Surgery and X-Guide 3D Navigation. The LANAP Laser is used to treat gum disease, and regenerate bone and tissue. It is minimally invasive, destroys bacteria, and offers patients quicker recovery time than traditional surgery.

An oral surgeon recommended major surgery for an issue I was experiencing for years. Dr. Aerni recommended a different nonsurgical treatment that alleviated my pain and corrected my issue, saving me from undergoing surgery! I highly recommend him and his practice!” – T. K.

The X-Guide® is the latest advanced dental implant technology that allows Dr. Aerni ultimate precision in implant placement. This means minimally invasive surgery with smaller incisions and faster recovery. Less than 1% of dentists offer this technology in the U.S.

When he’s not with patients, Dr. Aerni can be found teaching dental implant surgery to dentists at the Midwest Implant Institute, the very same place he began his own implantology studies. He also enjoys outdoor activities and making memories with his growing family.

I have four teenage children and have taken them to Aerni Dental since my oldest was six years old. We have spent countless hours at the practice for bi-annual checkups, fillings, four sets of braces and whatever dental emergency my kids created. Since Dr. Aerni’s staff is fantastic at scheduling for a family, mom even got her appointments in too!!!! Dr. Aerni and his staff always took care of us like we were family, and their skills and professionalism always shined through. They have state-of-the-art equipment, and make every effort to ensure you understand your options and follow up care. I don’t know how he does it, but Dr. Aerni also hires the absolute best hygienists and office staff. Want to give a special shout out to Jenny as she has cared for us our entire tenure at the practice. Since she has four kids as well, I looked forward to sharing war stories on my visits. Great service and great staff - can’t say enough about Dr. Aerni and his team!!!” –

Altenheim Senior Living

“At Altenheim – we’ve always stood for family,” states Paul Psota, CEO. Altenheim is a not-for-profit senior life plan community located in the heart of Strongsville providing:

• Assisted Living

• Memory Care

• Memory Care Assisted Living

• Short-Term Rehabilitation

• Skilled Nursing

Rated again as a top nursing home in U.S. News and World Report for Short-Term Rehabilitation, and rooted in tradition, Altenheim celebrates more than 130-years of providing compassionate care to seniors. They offer accommodations and services to fit many needs that can evolve to serve their residents and families. And as a not-for profit organization, they have the opportunity to make quality care and resident satisfaction their priority, as opposed to other for-profit partners.

Altenheim’s unique standing also helps them raise charitable dollars used to provide

innovative programming and ongoing investments that benefit their facility, staff, the community and most importantly, their residents. Fundraising support is critical to their work and helps them invest in initiatives including the health and safety of their campus, staff development, meals on wheels, art, and music therapy and more. Their donors, friends and the community play a significant role in helping to make this important work possible.

To find out more about Altenheim’s services for you or a loved one, employment opportunities or how you can further support their mission, please contact them at 440-238-3361 or visit them at www.altenheim.com.

Budget Blinds Your Local Window Covering Experts

At Budget Blinds of Strongsville, you will find more than great window coverings. If you’re shopping for a single window treatment, redecorating your entire house, or seeking the solution to a complex design challenge, you’ll find that Jana and Mark Florek and their associates are great to work with and they have the knowledge and expertise to help you put it all together.

As a locally owned family business since 2004, the Floreks take a long-term commitment to their customers seriously. They are proud to be part of Budget Blinds, the largest window covering franchise in the country, offering quality products with industry leading warranties.

Window treatments are so much more than sun protection or a simple tool for privacy. Well-designed window coverings enhance and complement your home décor. Budget Blinds fashion-forward styles and window treatment options fit any budget. They create a soothing atmosphere, raise ceilings, change the shape of a room, hide shortcomings and make a statement. Also, imagine a world

where window treatments anticipate your needs and adjust themselves automatically, creating your room’s perfect ambiance morning, noon and night. Control your shades effortlessly from remote control, voice control, from home or from anywhere in the world.

From the initial free in-home consultation to expert measuring and installation, the team at Budget Blinds is here for you through the complete process. Visit the showroom or call Jana and Mark at Budget Blinds of Strongsville. They bring expert design and tailored service to your doorstep.

Strongsville’s #1 Choice for Real Estate!

Howard Hanna is synonymous with excellent service and community involvement in Cuyahoga and Medina Counties. Their agents are rated excellent in local market knowledge, professionalism, pricing strategies, customer service, communication with their clients and neighborhood involvement. Their representation of sellers and buyers is second to none in the local community and in Northeast Ohio!

Howard Hanna is your one-stop for all real estate services! Not only will their team of agents help you find your forever home, first home, land or that right sized condo or cluster you have been seeking, they also conveniently offer superior financing services with specialized programs from Howard Hanna mortgage. Their title, escrow and insurance services team is also top notch and ready to serve you!

Buyers consider Strongsville a smart find due to the wide range of pricing; easy access to major freeways, downtown, the Cleveland airport; shopping and restaurants galore, sporting modern amenities while maintaining a hometown feeling! Call today at 440-238-1400 to partner up with us for YOUR NEXT MOVE!

Howard Hanna • 12333 Pearl Rd. 440-238-1400 • www.howardhanna.com

Bunker Hill Golf Course Golfing Since 1927

Chad Gibson is the General Manager at Bunker Hill Golf Course in Medina, where he continues his passion for the community as host of two local high school golf teams and the Special Olympics.

As a Medina County native who’s worked at Medina County Golf Courses and Event Centers for 34 years, his philosophy of giving shows in networking, community involvement, investing in and helping individuals, families, and businesses succeed.

Chad has hosted over 2,500 fundraisers that have accumulated over $3,000,000 given back to our local schools, churches, military, scouts, families in need, and non-profits. Over the years, Chad and his team have developed a niche in hosting and co-chairing events to help the community.

Chad spent several years as a director and a volunteer for local Chambers and non-profit organizations. He is a current member in BNI with past leadership roles as President, Vice President, Mentor, and Ambassador.

Bunker Hill Golf Course • 3060 Pearl Rd., Medina 330-722-4174 • www.bunkerhillgolf.com

Client Service First

Crossroads Home Loans is celebrating 15 years of “Lending Made Easy”! That is what you will find with the local female-owned mortgage wholesale broker. With an average 2-8 day clear to close you may apply online or in person with competitive costs, & interest rates! They use a simple, ”web based platform”.

Crossroads Home Loans is a proud team of not only loan originators and underwriters, but also a full team of loan concierge specialists, multiple lenders, attorneys, and investors at the forefront of ingenuity, technology & loan products. “We take it a step further through our simple process, as the

consumer has control. We are relationship driven first, not transaction driven! In the last 15 years we have excelled through many markets. Even during the “mortgage melt down of 2008,” we never faltered & truly are mortgage & commercial loan specialists” says Lisa Puto, owner.

Crossroads puts your needs first & is quick to refer or team up in consultation, preapproval, and approval with your local Realtor, CPA, Attorney, retail bank & Financial Planner. Whether you are purchasing or refinancing, a first-time home buyer or owner of multiple properties, they are ready to close your mortgage or commercial transaction.

• Go DOC-LESS & click the QR code, data enter/ upload/ credit pull

• As little as 0-3% Down

Payment and NO Mortgage Insurance

• 1% down Conventional Loan Product

Lisa feels truly blessed to do a job that touches her heart as she gives back by supporting the Strongsville and Cuyahoga County non-profits. Lisa’s goal is to educate her customers in purchasing their first home, vacation home, commercial property, or investment portfolio.

PSE Credit

Cuyahoga and Medina County’s Family Bank

What started more than 65 years ago as a credit union for the Parma school teachers is now a thriving notfor-profit bank that offers Cuyahoga and Medina County residents financial services and more.

PSE Credit Union, conveniently located at 12700 Prospect Road in Strongsville, offers all the same services as a bank “but with lower loan rates, higher savings interest rates and lower fees,” says Branch Manager Stacy Neumeyer.

This family-oriented institution now includes over 18,000 members throughout Cuyahoga and Medina Counties and makes educating kids about finances a core part of its mission.

“As part of our commitment to kids, we take our mascot Pennie the PSE Puppy into schools and teach kids as young as kindergartners to save money through our Pennie Club,” says Neumeyer.

Shinto Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar A Strongsville Favorite Serves Up Fresh Japanese

Cuisine and Great Atmosphere

Shinto isn’t just about the food. It’s also about the experience, says GM Brittany Swan. The beauty of the décor, the up-tempo music and the warmth and welcoming friendliness of the staff and customers adds to the tantalizing taste on your tongue, appealing to your every sense.

“You feel the energy when you enter,” Brittany says. “Most guests come here to celebrate and enjoy an evening out, beginning with a great cocktail, a delicious dinner and then relaxation out on the patio.”

Shinto, a Strongsville favorite since 2004, and now in Westlake, offers a contemporary atmosphere that features the best in sushi and Japanese cuisine prepared hibachi style by entertaining tableside chefs. The spacious environment is inviting for people of all ages.

While at Shinto, be sure to enjoy a signature martini or a Sake Bomb. “A restaurant itself is just tables and chairs,” Brittany says. “The people and the atmosphere you experience at Shinto are what makes it special.”

Southwest General

The Cosgrove Maternity Center

Jillian Bartal, MSN, RN, C-EFM, is the clinical manager of Southwest General’s new Cosgrove Maternity Center, a Level II Neonatal and Maternity Care facility that provides:

• Care for appropriate moderate to high-risk maternity patients (32+ weeks gestation)

• A Level II Special Care Nursery for babies born as early as 32 weeks who require close monitoring or special care after birth

• Access to a team experienced in maternity and newborn care, including skilled nurses, obstetricians, neonatologists, neonatal nurse practitioners, anesthesiologists, respiratory therapists and other specialists

• Advanced technology to care for mom and newborn

Jillian and her team of experienced caregivers are passionate about helping patients welcome new members to their family. They are committed to providing personalized, high-quality care for moms and babies and an outstanding birth experience for the whole family. To learn more about Southwest General’s Level II Cosgrove Maternity Center visit swgeneral.com/baby or call the Birthing Journey team at 440-816-6824.

Strongsville Smile Keepers

Strongsville Smile Keepers is the place to be! With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Matt Gaebelein’s guarantee of excellence is evident in his passion for dentistry. One only has to visit their state-of-the art facility to witness his commitment to high-quality dentistry. From the latest x-ray equipment, to same day crowns, patients are treated with innovative care. Dr. Gaebelein’s warm demeanor makes his office a friendly and inviting place. They serve patients from all over Northeast Ohio and have patients that travel from different states to receive their great care. Dr. Gaebelein is a fellow with the Academy of General Dentistry. Only 6% of dentists achieve this recognition. He is a Senior Master Provider in Fastbraces Orthodontic Technology and has given hundreds of children and adults beautiful smiles. You can be confident that when you enter Strongsville Smile Keepers you will be treated like family.

Southwest General • 18697 Bagley Rd. 440-816-6824

• www.swgeneral.com

I Believe in Home

Heather Srodek’s business is based in service and relationships; it’s the foundation of who she is and what she represents.

“In an evolving industry and culture, it’s important to know your values. The values I bring to my clients are a sense of ownership, honesty, integrity, process and a straightforward approach. When my values align with my clients,’ a strong bond is created and together, we work toward a common goal.”

Heather takes pride in what she does and how she represents her clients. “My service-minded, personalized approach has helped me build a strong referralbased business that I genuinely appreciate. Being part of peoples’ lives is so rewarding. I get to help people buy and sell memories. It’s such an honor.”

Whether you’re buying or selling in Strongsville, Heather will devise a plan that works for you.

Howard Hanna Real Estate Services 216-544-7171 • www.HeatherSrodekHomes.com

Sandra Cipriani Trivs Restaurant

Located in the heart of Strongsville, Trivs restaurant offers fresh, made to order dishes, an extensive wine list and unique hand-crafted cocktails! Live entertainment in the lounge, happy hour on the heated patio or a cozy dinner in the dining room… Trivs has it all, including an eclectic music venue Wednesday through Saturday.

Lunch and dinner menus change seasonally, featuring the freshest local ingredients. The Chef is happy to accommodate special requests to please every guest. The casual elegance and uncompromising service along with the assurance that the staff and customers health, safety, and well-being are the top priority make this a Strongsville staple. Mike Trivisonno Jr. is not only the owner but the man behind a guarantee that you will have a truly unparalleled experience every time.

The private dining room is an ideal space to host your special events, business meetings, showers, rehearsal dinners, or any day that is special to you. This local restaurant seeks to make each guest feel like a family member in their home.

t Today’s Headlines, the creation of your beauty is a blend of science, art, and talent” explains salon owner, Mary Siskovic. “Our stylists are highly trained and professionally educated to help you reach your hair goals. We use only industry leading products so you can experience the best that beauty has to offer. When you leave, you’ll be looking and feeling your very best!”

The friendly, relaxed atmosphere provides consistent results for clients, as well as a balance of personal and professional life for employees.

The salon specializes in customized blonding, balayage and hairworks, offering the #1 Italian hair color in the world, as well as organic color. “Thorough consultations ensure we choose the perfect products and techniques that fit your lifestyle. We prescribe the very best products and tools, then educate you on how to use them to maintain your hair until your next visit.”

Mayor Thomas P. Perciak has held Strongsville’s top office since Jan. 1, 2004.

His years as mayor have focused on creating a business-friendly environment – evidenced by four thriving business parks and a healthy retail base – and a flourishing community for residents, with recreational amenities, acres of green space and top-notch safety forces.

A former bank president, Perciak used his fiscal expertise to bring financial stability to the City of Strongsville. Under his leadership, Strongsville attained the Aaa bond rating with Moody’s Investor Services – a distinction held by only a handful of Ohio communities. Infrastructure has also been a priority, with more than $100 million in road and sewer improvements.

Embracing the values of faith, family, and friends, Perciak has found ways to bring the community together with events like the Winter Wonderland Lighting Celebration, and works every day to make Strongsville the ideal place to live, work and raise a family.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

We Have Exciting News!

Southwest General is proud to share that our Cosgrove Maternity Center in Middleburg Heights has received licensure from the Ohio Department of Health as a Level II Neonatal & Maternity Care Center.

Elevated Care Closer to Home

The Cosgrove Maternity Center at Southwest General is the result of a multi-million dollar expansion and renovation project. The newly designed, state-of-the-art facility nearly doubles the size of our former Maternity Unit and includes a higher level of care for both moms and babies, elevating from Level I care (35+ weeks of pregnancy) to Level II care (32+ weeks of pregnancy).

Expanding upon Level I abilities, Level II accreditation adds:

• Elevated Maternity services — care for appropriate moderate to high-risk conditions in pregnancy

• Broader neonatal care for babies who:

u Are born up to eight weeks premature (at or after 32-weeks gestation)

u Weigh at least 3.3 pounds (1500 grams) u Need special care for temporary breathing problems, feeding issues, jaundice, low blood sugar or other complications. These infants will receive care in The Cosgrove Maternity Center’s Level II Special Care Nursery

• 24/7 access to a team of specialists experienced in maternity and newborn care. In addition to offering Level II care, the new Cosgrove Maternity Center is designed to support an exceptional birth experience and features:

• 10 labor and delivery suites, including two hydrotherapy suites for labor

• 19 postpartum suites

• State-of-the-art operating rooms for Cesarean section (C-section) deliveries

• A Well-Baby Nursery (in addition to the Level II Special Care Nursery)

• Family-friendly visitor waiting areas and support spaces

We’re proud to be filling the need for advanced maternity services and newborn care — all within minutes of home for our patients and their loved ones. To learn more, visit swgeneral.com/baby.

Dr. Matt Gaebelein

Our practice has been voted “Best Dentist” by Medina County Gazette’s Best of the Best Awards for 5 consecutive years.

Dr. Matt Gaebelein and team proudly serving all your dental needs in one location! Including: Fastbraces, Implants, Bonding, Preventative Care, Same Day Crowns & Bridges, Whitening, Fillings, 3D X-rays, Root Canals, and more.

New Patient Promo: Comprehensive exam and 3D panoramic X-ray for $99 (Over $280 value).

Plus.. All new patients receive a FREE GIFT!

A special delivery for all moms.

The area's newest Level II Neonatal and Maternity Care Center is now open!

Our Maternity Unit has doubled in size and added a higher level of care for both moms and babies—elevating from Level I care (35+ weeks of pregnancy) to Level II care (32+ weeks of pregnancy). Southwest General is now the only Level II Neonatal and Maternity Care Center serving southwestern Cuyahoga County and northern Medina County—meaning that moms and babies who need extra medical attention can receive the specialized care they need right here, closer to home.

We’re proud to be filling the need for advanced maternity and newborn care —all within minutes of home for moms and babies.

The Cosgrove Maternity Center at Southwest General offers:

• Level II Neonatal and Maternity Care Center

• Renovated Postpartum Rooms

• A Well-Baby Nursery

• Level II Special Care Nursery

• Enhanced Visitor Waiting Areas and Support Spaces

• Upgraded Labor and Delivery Suites and Operating Rooms

Welcome to the Ernfelt Senior Center

Our hours are Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm.

Hot lunches for carryout are available Monday through Friday at the Senior Center. Order by noon the day before and pick up between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. You can order multiple days’ meals at the same time. You can also order a 32-ounce container of fresh, homemade soup each weekday by ordering it by noon the day before you want to pick it up. Orders can be called in at 440-580-3268.

Dinner on the Go every Friday for $10 per order, which serves two people. Meals include a main and side dish and are fully cooked. Just heat and serve! Pick up is from 11:30am to 3:30pm at the Senior Center.

We offer a wide variety of programs and activities for adults 50 and older. Stop by the front desk, 18100 Royalton Rd., or call 440-580-3275 for information about joining the Senior Center. Up to date activities schedules, menus, and hours can be found on our website at strongsville.org/ departments/senior-center

Ernfelt Recreation and Senior Center

Strongsville’s Recreation Center, 18100 Royalton Rd., offers a vast array of classes, programs, and activities for every age, in addition to a pool/aquatic center, gym, track and a huge assortment of workout and weight equipment. The front desk can be reached at 440-580-3260.

Strongsville boasts nine city parks that offer baseball fields, football fields, tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds, and pavilions.

For an up-to-date schedule of hours, classes, rules, events, and any other information, visit www.strongsville.org/ departments/parks-recreation.

Recreation Parks and Amenities

1. Rec Park No. 1 – 18100 Royalton Road – Located behind the Ehrnfelt Recreation Center, this park includes baseball fields, with playgrounds and tennis courts nearby.

2. Rec Park No. 2 – 16109 Foltz Parkway (South of Rt. 82) – Located near the Strongsville Municipal Offices and Service Center, this park includes Foltz 1 and Foltz 2 fields, playgrounds and a basketball court. Two pavilions with grills and picnic tables are available. One of the pavilions has electricity, running water and restrooms.

3. Rec Park No. 3 – 21273 Drake Road – Located at the intersection of Drake and Prospect roads, Wood and Sprague Fields are here. Each field has a pavilion with eight or nine picnic tables, two grills, four electrical outlets, playgrounds and portable restrooms nearby.

4. Nichols Field – 22707 Sprague Road – Located on Sprague and Marks roads. This field has a pavilion with eight electrical outlets, 10 picnic tables, two grills and a playground.

5. Volunteer Park – 21410 Lunn Road – Located just west of Prospect Road, it includes four baseball fields (two lighted) and two Little League fields. The park also has batting cages, horseshoe pits, a halfmile paved walking path, vending machines, restrooms, pavilion with picnic tables, playground and bocci ball courts.

6. Surrarrer Park – 14625 Whitney Road – Located at the corner of Webster and Whitney roads, this park features a new ADA-compliant playground, baseball field, two tennis courts and a pavilion with eight electrical outlets and four picnic tables.

7. Backyard Preserve – Located behind the Ehrnfelt Recreation Center, this park features an outdoor amphitheater, scenic walking trail, beautiful foliage and plenty of wildlife.

8. Youth Sports Park & Playground – 21255 Lunn Road – Location on West Lunn just west of Prospect, it includes on regulation football field, two flag football fields, three Little League fields and one pavilion with electricity. Use by permit only.

9. Castletown Pavilion – 18100 Royalton Road – Located between the Strongsville Library and Castletown Playground. Electrical outlets and grill are available.

For information or to reserve a pavilion, contact Chris Arold at (440) 580-3264 or chris.arold@strongsville.org

Role & Function of Strongsville City Council

The City of Strongsville operates under a “Mayor/ Council” form of government. The Mayor serves as the chief

executive and City Council serves as the legislative body. Both the Mayor and City Council are elected by residents of the Strongsville community. Council members serve fouryear terms, work for the city as part-time employees and are paid. There are seven members that serve on City Council; four members serving as Ward Councilmembers and three serving as At-Large Councilmembers. The Ward Council member represents one of the city’s four geographical districts of similar population and size. The At-Large Council members represent the residents of the total population and area of the municipality. Every January, the Council elects one of its members to serve as President and one member to serve as President Pro Tem. The duties of Council President include signing documents such as adopted ordinances and resolutions, representing the position of the Council to the Mayor’s Administration, overseeing management of the Office of the City Council including monitoring and guiding the Council’s priorities, and scheduling items on City Council meeting agendas. The President Pro Tem serves as a backup to the President in the event that the President is unavailable for any reason.

Strongsville’s current Council members are as follows:

• James E. Carbone – President, At-Large

• Kelly A. Kosek – President Pro Tem, At-Large

• Joseph E. DeMio – At-Large

• James A. Kaminski – Ward 1

• Annmarie P. Roff – Ward 2

• Thomas M. Clark – Ward 3

• Gordon C. Short – Ward 4

100 Years and Counting

Haven’t visited your Strongsville Branch Library in a while? It’s time to come in and see what’s new.

The Friends of the Library purchased two touchscreen Play Tables, one for children and one for teens, with 16 different games on each. The Strongsville Branch is the first and only Library in the Cleveland area to have them. They are wonderful, fun additions.

Our Children’s area has an exciting new look! This room refresh is CCPL’s gift to our community in honor of our 100th Anniversary. And more good news -we are now fine free.

Thanks to our legion of library lovers, this Branch, located at 18700 Westwood Drive, has the distinction of having the highest monthly materials check outs of any CCPL Branch. Stop in and browse our collection of materials in all formats. We have specialized services for teens and children. Pick up a quarterly program guide. There are many offerings for you and your family to enjoy.

Apply for a passport, explore our Toy Library, use our databases to learn a language, to find consumer reports, Ohio legal forms, craft ideas and so much more.

The library has services to benefit all residents including quiet study rooms, equipped with video conferencing equipment, which can be booked a week in advance. Get the free LIBBY app to stream and download books, magazines, movies, music, and audiobooks. Looking to volunteer? Join our Friends of the Library. They support Branch activities through book sales, dues, and donations. Our professional, experienced staff look forward to helping you discover the delights of using your Library next time you stop in. Make it soon!

Improve Your Life With A New Career?

We are looking to hire two people to work as Realtors for the Howard Hanna Strongsville office. A career in real estate means flexibility; in your time and your income. Are you a “people person”? Would you enjoy making your own schedule and determining your own income? If so, becoming a Realtor may be the perfect fit for your new 2023 career choice. If you do not currently hold a license to sell real estate in the state of Ohio, Howard Hanna can educate you and help you through that process! There are local and online colleges where you can complete the necessary schooling in as little as four weeks. Just think, you could be a month or so away from a new career.

This last year has brought many changes in the world, and one of those for many people has been a reassessment of how they are spending their working and personal hours. Real estate allows you to work flexibly from home or from the office. If you are achievement oriented and enjoy taking on challenges, dependable, and adaptable and love working with people, please give me a call today so we can schedule a phone interview right away! Tina Grant, Manager Strongsville Howard Hanna 330-741-0112

Looking to Sell Your Strongsville Home?

Have you heard the following statements lately?

“My agent helped us to get multiple offers with their unique marketing strategies”

“My agent guided us through accepting an offer with a “Price escalation addendum”

“My agent advised us how to make the most money in the safest possible way in today’s uncertain times”

“We received over asking price quickly and safely due to the agents marketing and connections”

Considering upsizing or downsizing or buying that perfect first home? We understand times are different and we are here to help you through the process. At Howard Hanna we can run a report for you that will show you HOW MANY buyers Howard Hanna has in their system currently looking for a home LIKE YOURS. We HAVE the buyers! Ask your local Howard Hanna agent for a “Buyers Market Analysis” to find out if those are phrases you will soon be happily saying! Contact your local Howard Hanna Realtor to find out how the local trends in 2022 have affected the value of your home. Please call 440-238-1400 for a free analysis as to how many buyers we have for your home as well as an updated valuation of your home. The market has changed and so has the value of your home! You may be pleasantly surprised!

Go Ape!

Nestled in the western suburbs of Cleveland is a unique outdoor adventure experience, Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park. Located in the visually stunning Mill Stream Run Reservation, visitors can engage in hiking, horseback riding, archery and yes, ziplining and axe throwing.

Our exciting Treetop Adventure course includes suspended obstacles, rope ladders, Tarzan swings and five epic ziplines. More than a simple canopy tour, the Treetop Adventure takes between 2-3 hours to complete.

With Go Ape Axe Throwing, park guests have another outdoor activity to enhance their experience. A fun option for wannabe lumberjacks, group outings and even birthday, bachelor or bachelorette parties.

Go Ape places the spotlight on the natural beauty of the Ohio woodlands, offering participants an impressive new way to view indigenous wildlife and plant life.  Let nature inspire you to greater heights.

For more information.Visit www.goape.com/locationohio-cleveland

The mission of Crisis Response

Canines is to provide strength, comfort, and emotional support to individuals, families, communities, and first responders experiencing intense traumatic emotions in the aftermath of critical incidents.

Crisis Response Canines (CRC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization comprised of certified K9 teams throughout the United States who have dedicated thousands of hours comforting those impacted by personal or community crisis events. Our highly trained K9 teams are experienced in psychological first aid and certified to work effectively in crisis environments supporting anyone affected by mass shootings, large-scale accidents, violence, abuse, tragic death, suicides, terrorism, natural disasters (fire, flood, hurricane, etc.), and more.

Our goal is to establish a nationwide network of canine crisis response teams who can be deployed immediately where they are needed most. CRC also offers local volunteer services

that are provided by the handlers and their canine partners, offering a level of comfort and calmness that only a canine can.

CRC has two team levels: CRC Comfort and CRC Operational Deployment. Our CRC Comfort Teams serve as the foundation for our visits to hospitals, schools, businesses, speaking events, and other similar opportunities. The CRC Operational Deployment teams have the capability to respond to National Crisis Events. Additional training completed by the Operational Deployment teams include the AKC Canine Good Citizen Advanced (CGCA), Canine Good Citizen Urban (CGCU) Certification, CRC Crisis Working Dog Certification, Law Enforcement Defensive Systems Crisis Working Dog Certification, and specific courses associated with healthcare, mental, & behavioral health.

Our volunteer members and their canine partners are background checked, and must complete a comprehensive series of nationally recognized certifications and commit to ongoing

training with annual re-testing/re-certifications as required to perform duties.

For more information about these wonderful dogs and their compassionate handlers, visit www.crisiscanines.org

Important Phone Numbers

City of Strongsville

16099 Foltz Pkwy. Strongsville, OH 44149 www.strongsville.org

SAFETY IN AN EMERGENCY, DIAL 9-1-1

CITY DEPARTMENTS

Main Administration

440-580-3100

Animal Control Officer

440-580-3180

animal.control@strongsville.org

Building Department

440-580-3105 building@strongsville.org

City Council Office

440-580-3110

Communications Center

440-580-3190

katie.grace@strongsville.org

Economic Development 440-580-3118 brent.painter@strongsville.org

Engineering Department 440-580-3120 chris.thompson@strongsville.org

Finance Department

440-580-3125

Fire Dept., Non-emergency 440-580-3210 fire@strongsville.org

Human Resources

440-580-3137

Law Department 440-580-3145 strongsville.law@strongsville.org

Mayor’s Court

440-580-3155 mayors.court@strongsville.org

Mayor’s Office

440-580-3150

Police, Non-emergency

440-580-3230 police.records@strongsville.org

Recreation - Walter F. Ernfelt Community Recreation & Senior Complex 440-580-3260 bryan.bogre@strongsville.org

Residential Waste DisposalRepublic Waste 440-572-7590

Senior Center

440-580-3275

sheena.wright@strongsville.org.

Service Department 440-580-3170 service@strongsville.org

CITY COUNCIL

Ward 1

Jim Kaminski

216-233-0721

Jim.kaminski@strongsville.org

Ward 2 Ann Roff 440-241-5253

ann.roff@strongsville.org

Ward 3 Tom Clark

440-596-8294

tom.clark@strongsville.org

Ward 4 Gordon Short 440-665-4184

gordon.short@strongsville.org

President, At-large Jim Carbone

440-268-8089

Jim.carbone@strongsville.org

At-large

Joseph C. DeMio

440-846-4563

joseph.demio@strongsville.org

President Pro Tem, At-Large

Kelly Kosek

440-241-2575

kelly.kosek@strongsville.org

Clerk of Council

Aimee Peintka

440-580-3112

aimee.pientka@strongsville.org

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Board of Elections

216-443-3298

Cuyahoga County Board of Health

216-201-2000

Food Bank

440-580-3280

Historical Society

440-572-0057

Library

440-238-5530

Strongsville BMV

440-572-1505

Meals on Wheels

440-238-3361

All About Service...

The Kiwanis Club of Strongsville is a service organization especially committed to the wellness of the community’s children; 2020 marked the 25th anniversary for the Club.

The organization is especially popular for the impressive American flag display that adorns Town Square on national holidays throughout the year. Over 100 local businesses and

Post Office

440-238-1637

Strongsville Cemetery

440-580-3186

Strongsville Chamber of Commerce

440-238-3366

SCHOOLS

Strongsville City Schools

Administrative Offices

440-572-7000

School Transportation

440-572-7060

Strongsville High School

440-572-7100

Strongsville Middle School

440-572-7090

private citizens fund the display which consists of the flags and the accompanying signs.

This fund raiser allows the Club to underwrite several community projects that include:

• Student scholarships totaling $10,000 granted to graduating seniors

• Memory Bags given to students K – 12 who are grieving the passing of a family member

• Read Around the World is a day-long promotion of reading at the community library. Each child in attendance selects a new, free book

• New school supplies are provided to K – 5 students and their teachers

• Youth organizations at the high school (Key Club); Strongsville Middle School and St. Joseph & John School (Builders Club).

• The “Adopt-A-Family” program provides gift cards to needy families at Walmart and other local stores

Interested in any of these projects? More information on these and membership in Kiwanis Club at website –www.Strongsvillekiwanis.com.

Chapman Elementary School

440-572-7140

Kinsner Elementary School

440-572-7120

Muraski Elementary School

440-572-7160

Surrarrer Elementary School

440-572-7170

Whitney Elementary School

440-572-7180

Early Learning Preschool

440-572-7046

PRIVATE SCHOOLS & CAREER CENTERS

Polaris Career Center

440-891-7600

St. Joseph & John

Catholic School

440-238-4877

St. Mary Catholic School

440-243-4555

DAY CARES

All Around Children

440-268-8330

Creative Playrooms

Strongsville Montessori School & Child Care

440-572-9365

Early Learning Preschool

440-572-7046

Goddard School 440-238-4600

KidsFirst Learning Center 440-596-0955

The Nest Schools

440-271-8448

Parma Preschool

216-741-9094

Primrose School

440-253-9922

St. Joseph & John-Little Vikings

440-238-4877

Strongsville Co-Op Preschool

440-238-5570

Stages Childcare Center

440-846-1507

Sweet Kiddles

Flexible Child Care Center

440-238-1119

Tutor Time Child Care/Learning Center

888-329-4049

Wishing Well Pre-School

440-238-7744

Camp Bow Wow 440-572-3200

UTILITIES

AT&T - phone, data, cable 800-288-2020

Continued on page 46

Diversity, Inspiration and

Strongsville Community Theatre has entertained audiences since 1995, with quality plays, musicals, and youth productions, showcasing local talent and educating students and adults in the theatrical arts. It awards special scholarships to SHS select seniors wishing to pursue a career in the performing arts. Through the years we have been fortunate to use the high school’s “Little Theater” as our venue. Presently, plans are in place to secure a more permanent “home.” Please stay tuned by visiting our web site at www.strongsvillecommunitytheatre.com

Art

Breezeline - TV, internet, phone 855-227-2134

City of Cleveland – water 216-664-3130

DIRECTV

800-531-5000

Frontier 888-626-9687

Columbia Gas 800-344-4077

First Energy – electric 800-589-3101

NEORSD – sewer 216-881-8247

NOPEC 855-667-3201

PUCO 800-686-7826

Republic Waste 440-572-7590

R.I.T.A. – Tax Collection Agency 440-526-0900

Spectrum Cable 877-772-2253

CITY CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Arts in Strongsville www.facebook.com/artsinstrongsville

Kiwanis Club of Strongsville www.strongsvillekiwanis.com

Rotary Club of Strongsville www.strongsvillerotary.org

Strongsville Chamber of Commerce

www.strongsvillechamber.com

Strongsville City Club

www.strongsvillecityclub.com

Strongsville Emergency Food Bank www.strongsvillefoodbank.org

Strongsville Historical Society

www.strongsvillehistoricalsociety.org

Strongsville Meals on Wheels

www.altenheim.com/independent-senior-assisted-living-strongsville-oh/services-and-amenities/meals-on-wheels/

Unlocking the Potential

In 1947, through a partnership between the Cleveland Rotary Club, Cleveland Metroparks, and Achievement Centers for Children (known then as the Society for Crippled Children), 52 acres of land was purchased in Strongsville with a vision of “providing a health vacation program for children.”

In the 1940s and 50s, many children with disabilities were institutionalized or home bound, so Camp Cheerful provided a “vacation from their disability,” as one camper expressed.

Through the years, Camp Cheerful grew and adapted to meet the disability community’s evolving needs. Most recently, in 2015, the Clubhouse was added to accommodate the River Rock Adult Day Program.

We are grateful to our visionary leaders, generous supporters, and dedicated staff and volunteers who have made Camp Cheerful all it is today.

Strongsville Optimist Club www.strongsvilleoptimistclub.com

Strongsville Women’s League www.facebook.com/strongsvillewomensleague

Veterans of Foreign Wars www.vfw3345.com

GOVERNMENT RESPRESENTATIVES

U.S. SENATORS

J.D.Vance

B40C Dirksen Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 202-224-3353

Sherrod Brown

202-224-2315

503 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510

U.S. CONGRESS District 16

Anthony Gonzalez 440-783-3696

13477 Prospect Rd. Suite 212 Strongsville, OH 44149

OHIO

Governor

Mike DeWine 614-644-4357

77 South High St., Riffe Ctr., 30th Flr. Columbus, OH 43215-6117

Ohio State Senator District 24

Matt Dolan 614-466-8056

Senate Building, 1 Capitol Sq., 1st Flr. Columbus, OH 43215

Ohio Representative District 7

Thomas Patton

614-466-4895

77 High St., 11th Flr. Columbus, OH 43215

ISSO

St.

St.

Strongsville

Dining Guide

BARS & PUBS

Brew Garden

16555 Southpark Ctr. 440-234-1002

Brew Kettle

8377 Pearl Rd. 440-239-8788

Buffalo Wild Wings 8465 Pearl Rd. 440-243-9464

Harvest Saloon 15147 Pearl Rd. 440-238-9464

Johnny J’s Pub & Grille 15323 Pearl Rd. 440-268-6848

Slim & Chubby’s 12492 Prospect Rd. 440-572-7546

The Local Bar 14751 Pearl Rd. 440-238-7495

The Rail 17855 Southpark Center Dr. 440-783-1275

PIZZA

A Slice Above 8788 Pearl Rd. 440-826-1300

Antonio’s Pizza 14232 Pearl Rd. 440-878-1111

Donatos Pizza 14694 Pearl Rd. 440-638-5919

East of Chicago Pizza 17024 Pearl Rd. 440-238-6022

Emilio’s Pizza 20934 Drake Rd. 440-846-1111

Gina’s Pizza 14423 Pearl Rd. 440-238-4820

Giovanni’s Pizza 19772 W. 130th 440-878-1700

Mama Julianne’s 10913 Prospect Rd. 440-238-2028 www.mamajuliannes.com

Marcos’ Pizza 12513 Pearl Rd. 440-572-9900

Master Pizza 13311 Pearl Rd. 440-876-8777

Papa John’s 16494 Pearl Rd. 440-572-4000

Pizza Hut 14089 Pearl Rd. 440-268-7989

Tommy’s Pizza 17664 Pearl Rd. 440-878-9999

COFFEE SHOPS & BAKERIES

Bruegger’s Bagels 15035 Pearl Rd. 440-572-4646

Dunkin Donuts 14009 Pearl Rd. 440-238-3544

13128 Royalton Rd. 216-640-7752

Fat Bee Café 14405 Pearl Rd. 440-268-6252

LaCrepe Bakery & Café 14785 Pearl Rd. 440-783-1797

Messy Aprons & Co. 14300 Pearl Rd. 440-879-1200

Nothing Bundt Cakes 13433 Pearl Rd. 440-268-8606

Peace Love & Little Donuts 13500 Pearl Rd. #123 440-783-1551

Starbucks 17180 Royalton Rd. 440-572-1105

8300 Pearl Rd. 440-298-2704

Vdessert 15131 Pearl Rd.  440-870-5103

Wine Down & Sweets Cafe 12927 Pearl Rd. 440-268-8305

ICE CREAM & SMOOTHIES

Dairy Queen Chill & Grille 12152 Pearl Rd. 440-238-3491

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers 12380 Pearl Rd. 440-783-1611

Mulligan’s Bar & Grille 20880 Royalton Rd. 440-238-4447

www.mulligansstrongsville.com

Bennett’s Bar & Pizzeria 19616 W. 130th St. 440-268-6767

Domino’s Pizza 14300 Pearl Rd. 440-572-0444

Crumbl Cookies 16734 Royalton Rd. 440-638-1350

Donut Scene 15033 Pearl Rd. 440-238-0288

Mitchell’s Ice Cream 18832 Westwood Dr. 440-638-4221

Sweeties Olympia Treats 11606 Pearl Rd. 440-572-7747

Pulp Juice & Smoothie Bar

15037 Pearl Rd.

440-268-6650

Robeks Fruit Juices & Smoothies

18025 Royalton Rd.

440-572-1640

Tropical Smoothie Cafe 17800 Royalton Rd.

440-783-1213

RESTAURANTS

Amici Italian Restaurant, Bar & Party Center 13000 Royalton Rd.

440-628-9715 www.amicisfam.com

Amigos Taqueria 14795 Pearl Rd.

440-638-4738

Aladdin’s Eatery 15250 Pearl Rd. 440-238-8000

Applebee’s 17771 Southpark Ctr. 440-572-5292

Asia Garden 19648 West 130th 440-268-6633

Barrio 13169 Prospect Rd. 440-783-1635

BIBIBOP Asian Grill 15191 Pearl Rd. 380-206-0722

Blue Habanero 18066 Royalton Rd. 440-879-1722

Buca di Beppo 16677 Southpark Ctr. 440-846-6262

Bucci’s J Bella Italian Restaurant 12201 Pearl Rd. 440-238-0200

Chick-fil-A Royalton Rd. 16584 Royalton Rd. 440-238-2344

Chipotle Mexican Grill 15029 Pearl Rd. 440-846-9625

City Barbeque 17818 Royalton Rd. 440-783-9105

Condado Taco 17830 Royalton Rd. 440-783-1153

Crown of India 14224 Pearl Rd. 440-638-4977

Culver’s 8464 Pearl Rd. 440-297-4008

Dairy Queen Chill & Grille 12152 Pearl Rd. 440-238-3491

Dave’s Cosmic Subs 14696 Pearl Rd. 440-268-6305

Dean House Chinese 14393 Pearl Rd. 440-268-9568

DiBella’s Subs 16758 Royalton Rd. 440-846-0924

Don’s Pomeroy House 13663 Pearl Rd. 440-572-1111

Europeans Best 19608 W. 130th St. 440-572-0600

Firehouse Subs 17250 Ledgewood Plaza 440-238-1133

Fusion Mediterranean Grill 20918 Drake Rd. 440-656-2121

Gran Fiesta Mexican 18737 Royalton Rd. 440-846-2313

Goldie’s Deli & Restaurant 13359 Pearl Rd. 440-572-8700

Hot Head Burritos 13405 Pearl Rd. 440-268-8588

Gino’s More Than Just Italian 14982 Pearl Rd. 440-879-1001

Italian Village Restaurant 16605 Pearl Rd. 440-572-1414

Jennifer’s Restaurant 14415 Pearl Rd. 440-234-2044 jennifers-restaurant.business.site

Jersey Mike’s Subs 13309 Pearl Rd. 440-783-1912

Jimmy John’s Subs 14993 Pearl Rd. 440-238-4008

King Dragon Chinese 20906 Drake Rd. 440-238-8278

La Kabob Lebanese Grill 14228 Pearl Rd. 440-846-5100

Dining Guide

Rico’s Tacos & Tequila 15315 Pearl Rd. 440-268-6233

 Continued from page 53

Longhorn Steakhouse 17211 Southpark Ctr. 440-238-7917

Miss Hickory’s Tea Room 14335 Mill Hollow Ln. 440-668-3053

O’Charley’s 8913 Pearl Rd. 440-243-2771

Outback Steakhouse 17602 Royalton Rd. 440-876-0007

Panera 17800 Royalton Rd. 440-846-0377

Pho & Beyond 13500 Pearl Rd. 440-783-1886

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers 14356 Pearl Rd. 440-783-9231

Red Lobster 17227 Southpark Ctr. 440-572-0717

Romano’s Macaroni Grill 17095 Southpark Ctr. 440-878-3000

Rosewood Grill 16740 Royalton Rd. 440-783-5500

Sakura Sushi House 15040 Pearl Rd. 440-268-9668

Samurai Sushi Bar & Hibachi Steakhouse 16670 Royalton Rd. 440-238-6948

Scramblers 16726 Pearl Rd. 440-238-4143

Shinto Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar 17070 Pearl Rd. 440-878-3868 www.shintoexperience.com

Square 22 13485 Pearl Rd. 440-268-8322

Strongsville Nutrition Café 14150 Pearl Rd. 440-829-6959

Sweet Mango Thai Cuisine 14610 Pearl Rd. 440-238-9921

Sweeties Olympia Treats 11606 Pearl Rd, 216-739-2244

Szechuan Gourmet 18086 Royalton Rd. 440-268-6242

TGI Friday’s 18400 Royalton Rd. 440-238-1299 www.tgifridays.com

Teriyaki Madness 17818 Royalton Rd. 440-638-4523

Trivs

17100 Royalton Rd., Suite 11 440-238-8830 www.trivsstrongsville.com

Zupadi Indian 14741 Pearl Rd. 440-783-1529

Every effort has been made to provide a complete and accurate restaurant list. Due to space constraints, not all fast food restaurants were able to be included.