Newspaper Articles
1957 CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS VILLAGE
Mayor William R. Gerdon was reelected in Cuyahoga Heights by 57 votes, defeating Councilman Stanley Klima, 265 to 208. Winning Council seats were: William Randle, 246; John L. Hanousek, 243; Louis J. Bacci, 238; John J. Bohdan, 214; Vincent Guidotti, 204 and Samuel F. Amari, 187. Losers were: Harry O. Henry, 119; Frank A. Kaczmarek, 123; Joseph E. Mantell, 152; Daniel J. Marek, 168; John P. Pallini, 126; Harry M. Schuman, 140; Bernard E. Stawicki, 106; Ralph J. DiSantis, 174; and Oscar L. Dustheimer, 171. Treasurer George G. Gallitz held his post winning 271 to 181 over John F. Jackson. James Chott was elected street commissioner, winning over Robert B. Knowlton, 225 to 135. Clerk Norbert B. Chase was unopposed and received 330 votes.
MARCH 1959 – MAN DROWNS IN TANK AT SEWERAGE PLANT
Andrew Monsinski, 63, of 4792 E. 72nd St., yesterday accidentally fell into a 20-foot deep aeration tank at the southeast sewage disposal plant, 6000, Canal Road, Cuyahoga Heights and was drowned. Plant officials said Monsinski, a retired worker, was visiting friends when he apparently slipped and fell into the tank. He was pronounced dead at St. Alexis Hospital. He is survived by a brother and two sisters.
NOVEMBER 7, 1959 - FRANK AMARI, 71, DIES; 4 SONS WIDELY KNOWN
Frank Amari, father of two suburban councilmen, of the head football coach at Independence High School and of a social studies teacher, died yesterday. He was stricken while out with a friend picking mushrooms. He was 71. Mr. Amari came here from Italy in 1910. He worked for the Cleveland Southerly Sewage Plant in Cuyahoga Heights until his retirement about six years ago. His son, Samuel F. is a councilman in Cuyahoga Heights. Raymond, an attorney was just elected councilman in Brooklyn Heights. Another son, Eugene, is the football coach and Ronald E. is a teacher at Cuyahoga Heights High School. He is also survived by two daughters, Mrs. Anthony Celci and Mrs. Bruno Guidotti. Mr. Amari lived with Mr. and Mrs. Celci at 7145 Marcelline Court, Cuyahoga Heights. Services will be at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday in Holy Name Catholic Church. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery.
1959 - CUYAHOGA SCOUTS HAVE FUN
Paul Hollenberg, on the Campcraft Staff at Chagrin Scout Reservation near Bentleyville, Ohio, this summer, showing knot tying techniques to Martin Malek, 11, 4704 E. 71st St. and Robert Schuschu, 4526 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Heights. The younger boys are from Troop 603, sponsored by Cleveland Heights Veterans No. 6566. They spent last week at Scout camp learning all sorts of skills.
1959 - STAGE FOX HUNT IN CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS
Sportsmen from suburban Cuyahoga Heights will stage a fox hunt next Sunday morning at 9 a.m. Interested hunters will meet at the fire station on Grant Avenue. Last Sunday a group of hunters braved the brisk 20 degree temperature and rounded up a gray fox. Patrolman Billy Baur bagged the trophy. In the party last Sunday were Police Chief Wm. Baur, Billy Baur, Roy Collecchi, Albert Gallitz, Joe Crooks, Lee Billi, Ray Ryan, Cleri Adorni, Edward Flowers, Joe Boing, Lou Bacci, Guido Fontana and Joe Mantell.
1960 - WATER POLO TEAM SCORES GOALS WITH A SPLASH
The sound of splashing water is a rarity during ball games, but not in Cuyahoga Heights. Twenty Cuyahoga Heights youths, ranging in age from 12 to 16, scrimmage each Friday in a game of water polo. The games started one day when a group of boys playing volleyball got the idea of using the ball in the Cuyahoga Heights Pool. Now the games are organized under pool manager Edward Christian and lifeguard captain Earl Bloam. “The boys find the game a good conditioner for life saving classes and the competitive swimming meets we hold here,” said Christian. The seven-man teams play in the deep end of the pool in an area 43 by 50 ft. A point is scored by tossing the ball past a goalie into a wooden-frame goal. Players must tread water and swim during the four 10-minute quarters. Bloam said, “The boys have bought red nylon bathing suits for uniforms. Now all they need is another team to play.”
Shooting for goal is Dan Tucholski, 4920 E. 71st St., while goalie Douglas Smith, 4937 E. 72 Pl. attempts to block the shot. Dunking is legal in water polo only when player has the ball or when team members are in the process of going after the ball. Holding someone under results in a penalty. Here, Ricky Woody, 5029 E. 71 St. is being dunked by Tim Harris, 4361 E. 49 St.
1960 - ARREST FIFTH MAN IN 200 BURGLARIES
Cleveland police today arrested the fifth member of a burglary ring which stole thousands of dollars of property from garages and automobiles in the last six months. The 26 year old West Side man denied participating in the thefts. Three men and a 16 year old youth who admitted to more than 200 burglaries in Cleveland and five suburbs were to be charged with burglary today, Parma police said. The men are Joe Dixon, 21, of 3208 Bridge Ave.; John Evans, 21 of 3401 Hancock Ave. and Wilbur Headrick, 24, of 3001 Vega Ave. Dixon and Evans are married and fathers. Each has an infant child. The long memory of Parma detective Virgil Costley was instrumental in tracking down the men. On July 26 eight burglaries in Brooklyn Hts. And one in Parma were reported. A neighbor reported a 1952 gray Nash fleeing from the scene of one of the burglaries. Costly went to a bar on W. 25th St. and found a similar car parked in front of the place. After checking the license number, he discovered the car belonged to the brother of the man he suspected. Costley had recalled that a year ago the suspect’s wallet was found in the rear yard of a home in Parma. Monday, Cuyahoga Heights patrolmen Reno Santini and George Gallitz arrested Evans, owner of the car, Dixon and the 16 year old youth when they spotted the car on E. 71st. Evans’ stepfather led Parma detectives to a garage at 1525 Branch Ave. Bulk of the loot was found in the garage three of the men rented for $10 a month. Other stolen property was recovered in a garage at 2908 Vega Ave. The men worked in pairs, splitting the money they received from sale of the stolen goods. They sold hundreds of items, including ties, power tools, golf clubs, radios, cameras and other equipment. Police are hunting three other members of the gang. They said Evans’ father was not implicated. Evans’ mother called Parma police yesterday and said her other son, Melvin, would give himself up. He has failed to appear. The men were responsible for breaking in to more than 100 garages and cars in Cleveland, Parma, Lakewood, Garfield Hts., Brooklyn Hts. And Cuyahoga Hts. Dixon, John Evans, and Headrick will be charged in Cuyahoga Heights. The 16 year old is held in the Detention Home.
JULY 8, 1960 - FORMER C.H. OFFICIAL BURIED HERE
John C. Bloam, former Cuyahoga Heights councilman, passed away last Friday at St. Alexis Hospital following a lingering ailment. Services were held Monday in Holy Name Catholic Church. He was a member of the suburb’s fire department until 1942, when he went to work for Jack & Heintz as a tool designer. Mr. Bloam is survived by his wife, Margaret, of 7134 Bletch Ct., Cuyahoga Heights, four children, Mrs. Marie Leslie, Mrs. Leuella Ryan, Mrs. Patricia Ezzo, and James Bloam, and eight grandchildren. His brothers and sisters are William and Harvey of Cleveland, Mrs. Betty Rochford of Akron and Charles Bloam, Mrs. Mildred Herzing, Mrs. Mary Kemmer and Mrs. Catherine Rees of Johnsonburg, PA.
1960 - POLICE CHIEF OF SUBURB QUITS AUGUST 1
William Baur, Cuyahoga Heights’ chief of police, is retiring August 1. Baur, a lifelong resident of Cuyahoga Heights, is 65. He has been chief since 1944. Prior to that he served 12 years as marshal, an elective post. The husky, broad-shouldered officer has seen the semi-rural community grow into an industrial village with a tax duplicate of 120 million dollars. In 1932 the safety force consisted of Baur and two others, who worked 12 hours on and 12 off. Now it includes 13 men. One of them is the chief’s son, William Baur Jr., a patrolman. The chief’s nephew, Allen Baur Jr. is chief in nearby Independence. An ardent sportsman, William Baur Sr. is known throughout the Cuyahoga Valley for his turtle fishing and turtle soup. He holds all Cuyahoga River records for the largest turtles caught, some 20-pounders. Two or three time a year he is chef at outdoor suppers at which he brews turtle soup in a 20-gallon cast iron kettle, set on a tripod over and open fire. The recipe is his own and closely guarded. One ingredient is mushrooms. Baur is considered an expert on this delicacy, able to tell 20 different varieties at a glance. Well-known and popular, Baur led the ticket each time he ran for marshal. Before seeking the post, he was a blacksmith, millwright and auto mechanic. He keeps his own car, a 1930 Model A Ford, in mint condition. Traffic was the biggest problem in Cuyahoga heights before the building of the Willow Freeway. Baur still shudders when he recalls the king-sized traffic jams at Schaaf and old Brecksville Roads during the air races each year. The chief is opposed to radar although his men operate the equipment on council orders. Baur calls it “Pearl Harbor – sneak arrest.” He lives at 4913 E. 71st St. His wife, Anna, is also a native of the area. At home the chief is kept busy in his garden and in his woodworking shop where he turns out doll cradles and desks for his five grandchildren. These and the turtles will keep him busy after retirement. The village as yet has no plans for his successor.
POLICE CHIEF BILL BAUR TO RETIRE, SERVED CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS 28 YEARS
Big jovial Bill Baur Sr. Cuyahoga Heights Police Chief has announced plans to retire effective August 1. Chief Baur has served the community since 1932 when he was first elected as the suburb’s marshal. His popularity as head of the police force was reflected in the fact that he was reelected five times while the post of marshal was an elective office. Each time he was the top vote getter. In 1944 the State Legislature eliminated the marshal as an elective office and Baur assumed the position of Chief of Police. When he took office in 1932 the department had one cruiser and two patrolmen who alternated on 12 hour shifts with no vacations or overtime pay. Today, the Cuyahoga Heights department has 13 men, three cruisers and a radio network which is manned around the clock. The men enjoy a 40-hour week and paid vacations. The village also has grown from a truck farm community into a developed industrial center where some 20,000 people from the Greater Cleveland area find employment. Chief Baur was born at E. 49th St. and Harvard Ave, 65 years ago when the area was known as Newburg Township. He has been happily married to the former Anna Hirsch of Independence Township 41 years ago. They have 2 children, Mrs. Helen DeSantis (wife of Councilman Ralph DeSantis) and William Jr., a member of the suburb police department. A veteran of World War I, Bill was a millwright blacksmith and auto mechanic before taking on his police duties. Chief Baur is an ardent sportsman and expert mushroom picker. He has snagged some of the biggest turtles ever caught in the Cuyahoga River Valley.
TURTLE SOUP, SITTING, MODEL-A FORD TO OCCUPY CHIEF IN HIS RETIREMENT
William Baur, 65, who retires as Cuyahoga Heights police chief Monday, says, “I’m going to sit on the front porch and take it easy for awhile.” From that front porch on E. 71st St., he can see the moderate traffic passing by and frequently a village police car. “used to be traffic was so thick on this street it took 20 minutes to get out of the driveway. The Willow Freeway was a life-saver for us. It took most of the traffic off E. 71st.” Baur first got into police work when he was elected marshal in 1932. “Traffic was our big problem then, but once in a while we’d have a strike at one of the plants. One time I even saw strikers using meat hammers, bricks, clubs and fists on each other. We broke it up though – with four or five policemen. A good bat on the snoot quieted them down. In those days they chose policemen not for what he could do but for his size.” The chief fits the old-time standards: he’s 5 ft. 11 ½, and weighs 260 pounds. His theory of police work, he believes, has kept the village from having any major crime. “Just keep the police cars moving. We have three police cars cruising on the 9 ½ miles of road during the day. When a driver sees them he slows down. We haven’t had any house jobs – that’s because you can never tell when a police car will come by.” He added, “I don’t believe in radar. I figure protecting life, limb and property is more important than just making arrest. I can’t see arresting someone for going 31 in a 30-mile zone. When we give someone a ticket he deserves it.” Baur, who has been chief since 1944, was born and reared in the village. His son, William Jr. is a patrolman on the village’s 14-man force. His nephew, Allen Baur Jr., is chief of the Independence force. Now Chief Baur plans to hunt rabbit and pheasant and catch turtles in the Ohio Canal. For 39 years his turtle soup, cooked for 10 hours in a 30-gallon cast iron kettle has been in demand locally. He also makes doll furniture in his basement workshop for his five grandchildren. He lives with his wife, Anna, at 4913 E. 71st St. “Yes, I’m going to hunt and fish when I feel like it and when I don’t, I’m just going to sit on the porch.”
FETE RETIRED POLICE CHIEF
Some 140 police officials, business and industrial leaders honored retired Police Chief William Baur of Cuyahoga at a testimonial dinner at Pesano’s Restaurant on Monday. Praising the record of the former police officer were Chief Frank Storey and Inspector W. Baer of the Cleveland Police Dept., Lieut. Jack Dudek of Cleveland who is national president of the FOP brought greetings from the 50,000 members of the police organization. Among the guests and speakers was Capt. James Hamilton of Los Angeles who served as technical advisor to the TV screen series, “Dragnet.” Mayor William R. Gerdon acted as master of ceremonies and said the chief would receive a purse and outboard motor as mementos of the gathering. Chief Baur was replaced by Capt. Frank Bartczak who was named to fill the vacancy on August 1. A number of telegrams from several chiefs in the county were also presented to Baur.
1960 - BARTCZAK IS CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS CHIEF
Capt. Frank V. Bartczak, former Golden Gloves fighter, last night was named chief of the Cuyahoga Heights Police Department. Council appointed the 44 year old officer to succeed William Baur, the department’s first chief. He retires August 1. Bartczak has been a member of the department since 1938 and a captain since 1949. As chief his salary will be $7,600 a year. During the 30s Bartczak gained local fame as a Golden Gloves heavyweight, and also as a hurler in fast-pitch softball leagues. Bartczak is one of the three captains on the 13-man force. With his wife and two children, he lives at 7134 Dressler Court in the village. Council appointed Frank Feuerstein, 6914 Grant Ave, Cuyahoga Heights, as a patrolman to fill the departmental vacancy caused by Baur’s resignation.
1960
A swim meet is scheduled for the local pool on Monday. Vic Trevasani and Joe Crooks are heading for New York City where their World War II Unit will hold its annual reunion. They plan to visit Montreal and Quebec after the convention. Local Little Leaguers in the All-Star game included Jimmy Crooks, Tom Humphrey, Marty Malek, Jimmy Masek and Jim Domzalski. Farm Team Stars are Billy Hazel, Larry Pallini, Ronnie Tomczyk, Bob Ryan, Lee Zmija, Bobbie Schuschu and Tim Baciak. Fill operations continue at Chapek’s field to get the area ready for winter sports and toboggan slide.
1960
The neighbors are all enjoying their summer vacations. The Joe Andrews visited the baseball shrine at Cooperstown. The Bob Schuschus enjoyed the fish they caught at Lake Milton. The Cleri Adorni family visited Toledo and Detroit. The Prenzlows had a restful time in the mountains of Pennsylvania. The Joe Dunns and daughter Patty visited Pennsylvania. The Men’s Social Club featured a real old fashioned picnic. The vittles were excellent and everyone had a few good belly laughs during the contests. Pete and Marion Humphrey copped the water balloon toss. Jerry Trafis and Ben Austin edged Al Preisendorf and Jim Masek 20-21 in horse pitching. Louisa, “The Princess” Vaccher had a birthday party on Sunday. All the local socialites were on hand for the event planned by the grandmother “Geega”. Outstanding stars from the swimmers were: Brian “Flying Fish” Ezzo in boys under 8 class, Karen Christian, Lois Marek in the swim event and diving, Rickey Woody, Willie Karon, who scored first places.
1960 - GROUSE DROPS IN FOR THANKSGIVING DINNER, THEN FLEES
The grouse that came to dinner at the Alio Pellini house on Thanksgiving Day did not stay to eat or be eaten. Pellini was just finished up his night’s sleep about 8 a.m. yesterday when he heard a crash and a tinkle, as of falling glass. He ran around trying to see what mirror had fallen but found none. Sometime later he found there was a grouse in the picture window of his home at 4837 E. 71st Street. It had flown right through the storm window and was trapped between the storm sash and the regular sash. “You would think it would make a grouse-shaped hole in the picture window, but not so. This hole is practically a perfect circle.” Pellini got the bird out for the edification of his children, Pammy, 9, Kevin, 6, Larry, 11 and Susan, 20 months. The Pellini family, already having a turkey, had no designs on the bird and planned to turn it loose. But Pammy feared that it might be hungry, so she lifted up the box it had been put in for safekeeping to give it some bread. The grouse did not stop to eat. It ran, not flew, to a big ravine in the rear of the Pellini house. So all Pellini has now is a 10-inch hole in his picture window and an interesting story to tell.
1961 – U.S. NAVAL ACADEMY GRAD
Pictured above is Ensign Richard Wallace of Cuyahoga Heights, a member of the 1961 Class at Annapolis. The former Cuyahoga Hts. Athlete will continue his graduate studies in engineering at Minnesota University.
1961 – SIGMA NU SWEETHEART
Miss Judy Golene, a junior at Ohio University, has been named the 1961-62 Sweetheart of Sigma Nu. An honor student, Miss Golene is the daughter of Mrs. And Mrs. Marcel Golene of Cuyahoga Heights.
1961 – CHARLOTTE WISKOFF
Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Wiskoff, 4628 E. 49th St., is engaged to Ronald Drinski, son of Mr. and Mrs. Tony Drinski, 6748 Hathaway.
1961 - AUGUST BRIDE
The marriage ceremony of Miss Joan Theresa Hanousek and Mr. Gene Botsko took place at Holy Name church on August 18. The couple left on a Canadian and New York honeymoon. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Hanousek of Cuyahoga Heights. The parents of the bridegroom are Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Botsko of Parma. The groom attends Ohio College of Chiropody.
1961 – CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS
Public hearing on the Loparo variance request will be held on May 21. The setback request for the Willowbrook allotment will be heard on May 23. The Boy Scouts picked their Patrol Leaders: William Koran, Dave Amari, Lee Zmija, Neil Cash, Tim Fontana, Bob Schuschu. Albert Gallitz left for the U.S. Navy last week. He is stationed at the Great Lakes Center.
1961 - EMERGENCY ACTION
The storm made necessary emergency action to help Mrs. Alexander Smith, 50, of 4619 E. 49th Street, Cuyahoga Heights. Her home was without power Saturday night and she tripped in the dark over a floor register and hit her head on a cupboard. Her husband tried in vain to get through to Cuyahoga Heights police, but the lines were busy. So he called Cleveland police, who used the civil defense network to reach Cuyahoga Heights police. The woman was taken by police to St. Alexis Hospital, where she was admitted for treatment of head injuries. Her condition was fair. Mrs. Smith, who is diabetic, lost considerable blood from the cut.
1961 - CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS GIRL WINS $2000 COLLEGE GRANT
A girl who wants to teach mathematics has won the 1961 scholarship award of the Cuyahoga Heights Manufacturers Assn. Patricia Hazel, graduating from Cuyahoga Heights, will use the $2000 grant to study at Bowling Green University. Patricia is the seventh Cuyahoga Heights student to receive a CHMA award. The association has granted one annually since 1954. Patricia, in addition to making high grades, served as president of Y-Teens, secretary of Girls’ Gym Leader and a member of the school chorus. She lives at 4566 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Heights.
JULY, 1961 – LITTLE TONY MAKES DAD HAPPY
Big Tony Casavecchia handed out enough cigars last week to stock a small tobacconist’s shop and for a good reason. On Saturday, July 1, Mrs. Anthony Casavecchia presented her husband with a brand new baby son – the couple’s first child after 13 years of marriage. Most fathers are thrilled with their newborn, especially the first one. To say that Big Tony was thrilled is putting it mildly. For the first few days after the birth of his son he was on another planet. Mrs. Casavecchia had Little Anthony by Cesarean Section. She had despaired of ever having a child, after such a long wait, so, she is very happy. But not as thrilled as Tony. He has always wanted to celebrate Fathers’ Day. Now he can. The Casavecchia live at 4638 E. 49th Street. Mrs. Casavecchia, who was Theresa Swiatkowski before her marriage, attended South High School.
NOVEMBER 1961 - ONE DEAD AND ONE SAVED AS BOAT SINKS
A fisherman was drowned a mile off Edgewater Park yesterday during a squall which capsized his 17 foot outboard motorboat and prevented rescuers from reaching him. His companion, who held on to a life preserver, was saved. The victim was Harry O. Henry, 60, of 4992 E. 71st St., Cuyahoga Heights. Coast Guard boats gave up the search for the body last night because of darkness and high lake swells. The search will continue this morning. Rescued was Alfred DeCarlo, 49, of 3862 W. 116th. An off duty Cleveland Policeman, Robert V. Goebel, who was fishing with his three sons and a friend, Robert K. Hammer, saw the Henry boat foundering. They rushed to the rescue. “We saw Henry’s motorboat was in trouble and cut our anchor after we couldn’t get it up. We got there fast and tried to snag Henry with a long-handled fish landing net,” Goebel said. “We missed him the first time and the high swells prevented us from getting another chance. He went down and we didn’t see him anymore.” Goebel and Hammer had to back up their 14-foot motorboat in the rough lake to reach DeCarlo, who was hanging on to a life preserver. With DeCarlo safely in the boat, the rescuers searched the immediate area for Henry, but without success. Seaman Apprentice Richard Grabowski, on outlook duty at the Whiskey Island Coast Guard Station, observed the quick-breaking events with binoculars. He immediately radioed to a Coast Guard cutter. De Carlo was taken to St. John’s Hospital and treated for mil shock. At the hospital, DeCarlo related that he and Henry put off from the Edgewater marina at 8:30 yesterday in Henry’s oat to spend the day fishing. He said the boat had been shipping a little bit of water all day but Henry didn’t think it dangerous. “As the morning wore on and the lake grew rough, Henry decided to pull up anchor and head for shore. Henry was in the bow of the boat and moved to the stern to pull in the anchor. He couldn’t get it up. I tried to help him but the boat began to go down. Water was up to our necks. I saw Henry trying to swim, I knew he couldn’t swim and I can’t either.” DeCarlo and Henry were fellow workers at Republic Steel Corp. DeCarlo is a dispatcher and Henry was a crane operator. Henry is survived by his wife, Matilda, and three sons, Kenneth, 30; Eugene, 26, and Ronald, 23. DeCarlo has two teenage children.
1962 - DEATH CAR DRIVER FACES CHARGES
The truck driver who survived the Willow Freeway crash that took the lives of six Akron teachers on November 2, 1962, faces charges with six counts of traffic manslaughter. The case opened Monday and is being heard by a panel of three Common Pleas Court Judges. The testimony of the Cuyahoga Heights Police Dept. was presented by Chief Frank Bartczak, Capt. Reno Santini and Patrolman Joseph Crooks who investigated the accident and interrogated the witnesses. The rig driver, Justine Bedroitis, 43, faces six to 120 years.
1962 - SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
Five students of the 1962 class at Cuyahoga Heights were awarded scholarships. Howard Kirsch of 7611 Canal Road received the Phi Beta Kappa award and gets a $600 annual grant while attending Case Institute of Technology. The $2,000 scholarship from the Cuyahoga Heights Manufacturers Assn. was awarded to Miss Joyce Klima of 7137 Marceline Ct., who will study at Ohio State University. Miss Barbara Edwards of 10820 Stone Rd. won a musical scholarship of $1000 at Ohio State University. The PTA $250 awards to outstanding students and sponsored by the school organizations went to David Nobili of 4600 E. 49 St. and Frank May of 18409 Alexander Rd.
1962
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bartczak of 7134 Dressler Ct. Cuyahoga Hts. announce the engagement of their daughter, Barbara to Mr. Allen Kolman of Richmond Hts. Mr. Kolman attends Ohio University.
1962 - CUYAHOGA COUNTY CHAMPS
Pictured above are the Cuyahoga Heights Redskins who won the West County Baseball League Title for the second year. The team was coached by Robert Coy and Art Massey. The top hitters were: Timothy Harris (.389), Stanley Derbin (.351), Bernard Kroviak (.342), Jack Weigand (.341), and Dale Andrews (.340).
1963 - FIRE CHIEF SAUNDERS WILL RETIRE ON APRIL 1
Cuyahoga Heights Fire Chief William J. Saunders, a fireman for 48 years, will retire April 1. His letter of resignation was read at last night’s village council meeting. His successor is expected to be named at the April 8 meeting. Chief Saunders, now 73, rose to the position of captain with the Cleveland Fire Department before becoming the village chief in 1944. His experience in handling industrial fires was one reason for being selected village chief, he said. He recalled that during one year in Cleveland he answered more than 900 fire calls. Chief Saunders lives at 16144 Bardbury Ave., Middleburg Heights, with his wife, Marguerite. They have one son, Msgr. Kenneth W. Saunders, pastor of the St. Bartholomew Parish in middle burgh heights and one daughter, Mrs. Ruth O’Grady of Grosse Point, MI. Chief Saunders cited an injury received at a fire scene more than a year ago and a heart condition as reasons for his retirement.
1963 - MOTHER-DAUGHTER TEAM
Mother daughter team of registered nurses in surgery at St. Alexis Hospital are often assigned to the same cases. They are Mrs. Alcie Randle and her 22 year old daughter, Pam who live at 4547 E. 49th St. Mrs. Randle is a graduate of Aultman Hospital in Canton. Miss Randle graduated from Fairview Park Hospital’s school of nursing
1963
Mr. and Mrs. Theodore J. Golak were married in St. John Nepomucene Church. The couple left on a trip to Florida. The bride is the former Violet Elizabeth Stawicki, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leo Stawicki, 4511 E. 49th St.
1963 - LOTS OF CANDIDATES AVAILABLE AS 15 SEEK 6 COUNCIL POSITIONS
Four councilmen in Cuyahoga Heights are seeking reelection in a council race that has six posts open and a total of 15 candidates. Seeking reelection are Councilmen Samuel F. Amari, Ralph J. DeSantis, John Hanousek and Stanley Smith.
Amari, 40, has served on Council for 10 years. An accounting clerk for the American Steel & Wire Co., he is active in Boy Scout work and the PTA. Married with four sons, he lives at 7143 Marcelline Ct.
De Santis, 49, a councilman for 6 years, has also been on the Zoning Board and Police Relief and Pension Board for 6 years. He is president of the Cuyahoga Heights Youth Foundation and a member of the local men’s club. Married with four children, he lives at 5015 E. 71st.
Councilman John L. Hanousek, 45, has served in the post for 10 years and a treasurer for four. He is a member of the Council’s Finance Committee and is chairman of the Police Pension and Relief Board. Employed by the E.F. Hauserman Co., Hanousek is married with three children and lives at 4823 E. 71st St.
Councilman Stanley L. Smith, 50, was elected for the first time two years ago. He is on Council’s Finance Committee. A baker at the A&P Tea Co., he belongs to a local men’s club and lives at 4937 E. 72nd Place with his wife and two children.
John J. Bohdan, 44, is a former councilman with four years’ experience. He served as president of Council and on the Fireman’s Relief and Pension Board. A plant inspector at the Arcrods Co. in Cuyahoga heights, he is married with three children and lives at 4536 E. 49th.
Ralph E. Contipelli, 28, ran unsuccessfully for Council two years ago. He attended Kent State University for four years, is an accountant for General Motors. He is married with three sons and lives at 4884 E. 49th St.
John F. Jackson, 57, a member of the School Board, is a local jeweler. A 24-year resident, he is married with three sons and lives at 7133 Marcelline Court.
Stanley Klima, 55 is a former councilman with 12 years of service. He ran unsuccessfully for mayor two years ago. He has been Council president and served on the Zoning Board. A foreman at the Grabler Mfg. Co., he is a widower and lives with his two children at 7137 Marcelline Ct.
Raymond Skiba, 36, is seeking office for the first time. A Red Cross water safety instructor and a scoutmaster, he is a draftsman with the architectural firm of Grosel & Jencen. Married with five children, he lives at 4620 E. 49th
Daniel J. Marek, 59, who ran twice before unsuccessfully for Council, is a hoisting engineer for the Lombardo Construction Co. A 34 year resident, he lives with his wife and three children at 4888 E. 49th
Joseph D. Dvasnok, 42, is running for the first time. He served as a member of the Police Relief and Pension Board for 10 years. He is now assistant controller for the Cleveland Air Route Traffic control Center. Married with four children, he lives at 67128 Marcelline Court.
Norman J. Vincenti, 29, is also running for the first time. A lifelong resident of the village, he is warehouse manager of the Interior Model & Tile Co. in Cleveland. He is single and lives at 4553 E. 49th.
William Randle, 50, served on Council from 1949 to 1959. He is chief operator of the emulsion plant at the Standard Oil Co. Married with two daughters, he lives at 4547 E. 49th
Frank Talani, 34, ran unsuccessfully for council in 1961. A truck driver for the Dixie Ohio Co., he is member of the VFW and a local men’s club. Married with five children, he lives at 4661 E. 71st
John P. Pallini, 34, ran unsuccessfully for council three times and for School Board once. A Member of the Toscana Club, he is a brake operator at the E.F. Hauserman Co. Married with three sons, he lives at 4579 E. 71st.
Running on a slate with Mayor Gerdon are Contipelli, Jackson, Smith and Vincenti. Running on mayoral candidate Louis Bacci’s slate are Bohdan, DeSantis, Hanousek, Klima, Kvasnok and Skiba.
June 1964
Mayor William R. Gerdon appointed three new policemen and two new firemen to bring the departments up to strength. The firemen named were Victor Duber and Ronald Henry. The policemen are Lawrence Mack, Robert Hine and Franklin Hess Jr. All will serve a six-month probationary period.
1964
At a nuptial mass, Gail Klima, daughter of Stanley W. Klima, 7137 Marcelline Ct. and James B. Knaus, son of Mrs. Evelyn Knaus, 2540 Hilltop, South Euclid, were married by the Rev. Szabo at Holy Name Parish. The bride was attended by Margaret Walter, the matron of honor, and the bridesmaids Joyce Klima, Janice Kreit, Barbara Bartczak and Cynthia Mahony.
1964 - PILOT CRASHES HIS PLANE, THEN PARTY AT MAYOR’S
Del E. Parnell safely crash landed his light airplane after its engine gave out over Cuyahoga Heights yesterday. Then he crashed a party being given by the Mayor, William R. Gerdon. The only damage to his plane was a broken nose wheel, caused when he sat the plane down in a grassy field behind the bulk plant of the Standard Oil Co. on E. 49th. Parnell said he was circling the bulk 0lant after taking off from Brooklyn Airport when he noticed the oil pressure gauge dip quickly. He noted the open field and headed toward it. Mayor Gerdon said he was entertaining guests in the back yard at his home at 4936 E. 49 when he noticed the plane gliding overhead. The mayor jumped into his car and drove around till he found the craft. Gerdon then took the pilot back to the party. The plane was guarded by police until its wings were removed. It was then hauled back to the airport.
1964 - COUNCIL CONSIDERS PAY RAISES FOR POLICE, FIREMEN, MAYOR
Cuyahoga Heights council last night placed on first reading an ordinance which would give police and firemen a 5% raise and set the village mayor’s salary at $13,500. The ordinance is a compromise ordinance worked out in an earlier council committee meeting. Last month, Council was deadlocked in considering a pay raise which also included a raise for councilmen. Last month’s ordinance was opposed by Councilmen Stanley Klima and John Bohdan, both members of the local political party opposed to Mayor Gerdon’s party. Last night, only Bohdan opposed the compromise ordinance. If the ordinance is passed unanimously, according to the village charter, the mayor’s salary increase would go into effect immediately. If the ordinance is passed by a majority only, just the provisions regarding the police and firemen’s raises would go into effect immediately. Gerdon now receives $11,000 a year with a $750 expense account for village business. The new proposal is $13,500 with a $1500 expense account. The last raise was in 1953.
1965 - COUNCIL MINUTES COME TO RESIDENTS’ DOORSTEPS
Copies of the minutes of Cuyahoga Heights Council meetings are being delivered to the doorsteps of the suburb’s residents even though the council did not authorize the deliveries. Publishing the minutes are members of the village’s Citizen’s slate, a local political party which lost Council strength in last November’s election. Norbert Chase, who took the village’s official minutes for 10 years as village clerk before he lost the election has continued to write the minutes this year. “It’s time consuming but certainly worthwhile. Since the first minutes were delivered, council has had a full house at its meeting. The minutes inform the people which members on council are doing what and they also serve to stop political rumors that tend to crop up.” Former Councilman Louis Bacci, who lost the mayoral election last year to Mayor Gerdon is running 300 copies of the minutes off several days after each meeting. Chase says he includes editorial comments in the minutes. Children of the citizen’s slate members deliver them. The former clerk explained that the village council in 1960 provided that minutes be home delivered but the practice was discontinued in 1962.
1965 - SCOUT WINNERS
Larry Kaczmarek shows his winning form in the semaphore event at the Cuyahoga Heights Troop #603 brought home the first place trophy at the Cuyahoga Valley District Camporee. The other boys are Dennis Fenwick and David Amari. On their shoulders are Brian Ezzo and Jeff Chase. Other events which the boys won were the flapjack contest, Morse code sending, fire by flint and steel, and the dressing relay. They also placed in the compass course and fire by friction course.
1965 - COMPLETE 49 YEARS ON RR
On March 1, George J. Gallitz completed 49 years of service with the Newburgh and South Shore Railway. He started his railroad career as a messenger boy on April 26, 1916. For the past 15 years he served as agent and superintendent of car service. Mr. Gallitz and his wife Lou, who live at 7133 Bletch Court, have been married 44 years. They have two children and eight grandchildren. The retiree has been active in Cuyahoga Hts. Politics since 1932. His service includes 9 years on council, 8 years as clerk and 16 years as treasurer, a post he now holds.
1965 – COMPETITION IN ELECTION WILL BE KEEN AS 22 CANDIDATES SEEK NINE POSITIONS
Competition is keen in Cuyahoga Heights where 22 candidates are seeking nine village posts. Village Treasurer George Gallitz is challenging Mayor William Gerdon in the mayor’s race. Three are seeking the vacated treasurer’s post and 15 candidates are after six council seats.
MAYOR
Gerdon, 57, has been mayor 18 years. He was on the village police force for 12 years and on Council for two. A lifelong resident of the village, he is a member of the Masons and Eagles Lodge. He is the father of one son. The Gerdons live at 4936 E. 49th.
Gallitz, 65, has been village treasurer since 1950. He was elected councilman in 1932, appointed treasurer in 1936, appointed clerk in 1937 and held the post until 1945. Retired now, he was formerly a superintendent of car service for the Newburgh and South Shore Railroad. He also has been a member of the Traffic Club of Cleveland and of the Cleveland Transportation Club. He is married and has two grown children. The residence is at 7133 Bletch Ct.
CLERK
Harry M. Schuman, 41, is completing his second year as clerk. He was councilman for two years and a member of the School board for six. A tool and die man with the Ford Motor Co., he is active in the VFW. He and his wife have three daughters and live at 4507 E. 49.
Norbert B. Chase, 38, served as village clerk from 1953 to 1963. He is employed as a clerk for the U.s. Steel Cuyahoga Works. A member of the VFW, he is married, the father of seven children and lives at 4941 E. 71st.
TREASURER
Donald B. Doskey, 42, was councilman from 1957 to 1961. He is an auto garage owner. A 21-year resident, he is a member of the PTA. He and his wife have one son and live at 5021 Willowbrook Dr.
John F. Jackson, 63, has served on the School board for four years and on Council for two years. A 25-year resident, he is owner of a jewelry and appliance store. He is married, the father of three sons and lives at 7133 Marcelline Ct.
John P. Pallini, 36, has been an unsuccessful candidate for council and the school board. A 35-year resident, he is a brake shoe operator for the E.F. Hauserman Co. A member of the Toscana club, he is married, the father of three sons and lives at 4579 E. 71st St.
COUNCIL
Samuel F. Amari, 42, served on council from 1951 to 1953 and from 1955 to 1963. He is an expediter for the American Steel and Wire Co. A 25-year resident, he has served as head of a parents’ committee for Boy Scouts and as vice president of the Toscana Club. He is married and has four sons. The residence is 7143 Marceline Ct.
Louis Bacci, 39, served 10 years on council before being defeated two year ago. A self-employed cement contractor, he is a life-long resident. Married and the father of five children, he lives at 4933 E. 72nd Pl.
John J. Bohdan, 46, is completing his eighth year on council. A lifelong resident, he is a plant inspector and director of shipping for the Arccrods Co. He and his wife have three children. The residence is 4536 E. 49th
Francis E. Byrne, 24, a lifelong resident is a sale engineer for the Statistics Tabulating Corp, a data processing service bureau. He is a member of the Cleveland Jaycees.
John L. Hanousek, 47, was village treasurer from 1949 to 1953 and a councilman from 1953 to 1963. A lifelong resident, he is secretary of the village men’s club, a VFW member and is an active member of the Cuyahoga Heights Swim Team. He is married and has three children and lives at 4823 E. 71st.
Henry S. Kalish, 53, does methods and tool liaison work for the Cleveland Pneumatic Tool Co. A nine year resident, he is a member of the PTA and management club of the Cleveland Pneumatic Tool C. He and his wife have a son and daughter and live at 4680 E. 71st.
Stanley Jack Klima, 57, has served 14 years on council. He also has served on the Zoning Board, Firemen’s pension Board and on the Public Works and Finance Committees of Council. He is a clerk for the Grabler Co. A 31 year resident, he is a widower and the father of two daughter. He lives at 7137 Marcelline Ct.
Joseph L. Kvasnak, 44, ran unsuccessfully for Council two years ago. He has served on the Police Pension Board. He is an assistant controller of air traffic for the Federal Aviation Agency in Oberlin. A member of the Cleveland Aviation Club, he is married and the father of five children and lives at 7128 Marcelline.
William Randle, 52, recently was appointed to fill a vacant post on council after having been a councilman from 1949 to 1961. He is a plant operator for Standard Oil. He has been active in union work. He, his wife and two daughters live at 4547 E. 49th.
Elmer H. Schroeder, 55, a 12 year resident, is a supervisor at the General Motors Chevrolet Plant. He has served as a campaign manager in a village election. He is a member of the villagemen’s club and is on the town bowling league. The Schroeder’s have one son and live at 5015
E. 71st
Stanley L. Smith, 52, is completing his fourth year on Council. He has served as finance committee chairman and on the Firemen’s Pension Board. He was a manager and coach for the Little League and Pony League for eight years. He is a bakery foreman for A&P. He is married and has a son and daughter. The residence is 4937 E. 72nd Pl.
Frank P. Talani, 36, ran unsuccessfully for council in 1961 and in 1963. A truck driver, he has been a member of the VFW and the local men’s club. Married and the father of five children, he lives at 4661 E. 71.
Clement Tucholski, 54, a 24 year resident, is employed by the Cleveland Oak Belting Co. He has had no previous political experience.
1965
William R. Gerdon, mayor of Cuyahoga Heights for 18 years was upset by village treasurer George Gallitz. The vote was 270 to 241. Former village clerk, Norbert Chase beat Clerk Harry Schuman, 295 to 205. Donald B. Doskey, 184, was elected treasurer, beating John Jackson, 175 and John Pallini, 137. Elected to Council were Louis Bacci, 295; Councilman Stanley Klima, 270; Councilman John Bohdan, 269; John Hanousek, 253; Samuel Amari, 230 and Councilman Ralph E. Contipelli, 217. Losers were William Randle, Stanley Smith, Elmer Schroeder, Francis Byrne, Clement Tucholski, Henry Kalish, Frank Talani, Joseph Kvosnok, Ralph DeSantis. An additional 3 mill school levy squeaked to victory 793 to 784. Incumbent James J. Masek, 966; Eugene Koch, 786 and Raymond Skiba, 700, were elected to the school board. Defeated were Lillian Bacci, 628 and William J. Spieth, 588.
1966 - SWIM TEAM JOINS U.S. FIGHTING TEAM
Cuyahoga Heights has three young men on the fighting front at Viet Nam. Three years ago, these boys were members of a winning swim team in the suburb. Today, they are on Uncle Sam’s fighting team in the Army. The team includes: Lee Billi, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lino Billi, Ronald E. Kimmel, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Chmielewski, Jeff McCandless, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gerald McCandless, and Wayne Arndt, son of Mrs. Florence Penington. Billi, Kimmel and McCandless are stationed with the U.S. Army in South Viet Nam. Arndt is in Korea with a tank unit.
1966
Mrs. And Mrs. Robert Chase of Cuyahoga Hts., announce the engagement of their daughter, Gloria to Mr. Raymond Kormos, son of Mr. Steve Kormos of 3552 E. 105th
1966
Sacred Heart of Jesus Church was the scene of the marriage of Miss Linda Crooks, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Crooks, 4646 E. 71st and Mr. Jerome J. Blatnik, son of Mrs. John Blatnik, 3560 E. 81st.
1966
Mr. and Mrs. Louis J. Bacci of 4933 E. 72 Pl. Cuyahoga Hts., announce the engagement of their daughter, Charlotte Ann to Pvt. Richard J. Wisnieski, son of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer J. Wisnieski of 9420 Rockside Rd., Valley View.
1966
Sacred heart of Jesus Church was the scene of the wedding of Miss Patricia Ann Hazel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Hazel and Joseph Klir, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Klir Sr. The bride teaches at Olmsted Falls and the groom is a June graduate of Cleveland State University. The couple will reside in Independence.
1966
Garfield Hts. Methodist Church was the scene of the marriage of Carol Mae Riley, daughter of Mrs. Louise Riley, 7127 Marcelline Ct., Cuyahoga Hts. And Mr. Joseph Bertolone, son of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Bertolone, 2173 W. 67 St. Following the reception, the couple left on a Florida vacation. They took up residence in Augusta, Georgia, where SP/4C Bertolone is stationed at the Fort Gordon Hospital.
1966
Mary Ann Cathrine Sila and Dennis Jerome Blue were married June 25 at SS. Peter and Paul Church. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Sila, 4920 E. 88th, Garfield Hts. The bridegroom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Blue, 7141 Bletch Court, Cuyahoga heights. The bride was graduated from Kent State University where she is working for a master’s degree. She is a teacher at Garfield Park Elementary. Mr. Blue was graduated from Bowling Green State University and Kent State. He is a guidance counselor at Garfield Park Jr. High.
1966
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph P. Dunn of 4929 E. 71st St., announce the engagement of their daughter, Patricia Kay, to Pfc. Roy Harold Walcher, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Walcher, of 6799 Hathaway Rd., Valley View. Pfc. Walcher is now stationed at Minneapolis, MN. A June 24 wedding is planned.
1966
Barbara Jean Mihalus and Edward Leo Stawicki were married June 25 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Bruno Gadomski, 6906 Rathbun Ave. Mr. Stawicki is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Leo Stawicki, 4511 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Heights.
1966
Patricia Lee Walcutt and David Lee Nobili were married June 25 at Brooklyn Hts. United Church of Christ. The bride is the daughter of Mrs. Albert J. Walcutt, 811 South St., Brooklyn Hts., and the late Mr. Walcutt. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Nobili, 4600 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Heights. The bride attends Miami University. Mr. Nobili was graduated from Miami University and will enter John Marshall Law School in September.
1966-1967
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Harris, 4953 E. 71st, announce the engagement of their daughter, Susan Elizabeth to Daniel W. Tucholski, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clem Tucholski, 4920 E. 71st. A September wedding is planned.
1966-1967
Mr. and Mrs. Henry John Talani of 9506 Murray Rd., Valley View, announce the engagement of their daughter, Joan Lee Talani to Gerald Frank Piasecki, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Piasecki of 8626 Hienton Rd., Valley View. Gerald is now attending Cleveland Engineering school.
1966-1967
Anne Marie Wegenek and Albert Rudolph Fess were married April 8th in St. Stanislaus Church. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony D. Wegenek, 6715 Hosmer Ave. The groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph Albert Fess, 4563 E. 49th St. The newlyweds honeymooned in the Bahamas and Florida for ten days and are presently residing at 6824 Worley Ave.
1966-1967 MALARIA VICTIM
Serving only 5 months in Viet Nam, Ralph J. Faragone has been bedridden with malaria. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Faragone of 4545 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Hts. He graduated from Cuyahoga High in 1965. For those who wish to send him a card or letter, his address is PFC Ralph J. Faragone, US52662830 (Panlins) 6th Convalescent Center, APO SF 96312
1966-1967 HONOR RETIRED POLICE CHIEF
Some 450 people attended the testimonial dinner honoring retired Police Chief Frank V. Bartczak of Cuyahoga Heights. Pictured above are Mr. Bartczak, Jack Dudek of the FOP and Mrs. Dorothy Bartczak. Police Chiefs and officers of 20 cities and villages were on hand to honor the retired chief. Presentation of a miniature gold badge and life-membership was made by Chief Edward Prasek of Maple Hts. Other gifts included a color TV set and a purse. Mayor George Gallitz and a committee of neighboring chiefs and officials were in charge.
1966-1967 SUCCESSOR TO BE NAMED FOR RETIRING POLICE CHIEF
A successor to Frank V. Bartczak, who last night announced his resignation effective Mar. 1, as Cuyahoga Heights police chief, will be named by Mayor George Gallitz. Bartczak, 51, resigned for health reasons after heading the department for 7 years. He was appointed to the chief’s post after serving as captain for 11 years. Bartczak’s resignation leaves the department with three captains and 10 patrolmen.
1966-1967 WOUNDED G.I. VISITS SICK MOTHER AT HOSPITAL
For the past two months, Mr. and Mrs. Henry Chimelewski of 7130 Dressler Ct. kept a vigil at the bedside of their son, SP/4C Ronald Kimmel, 21, in the Walter Reed Hospital in Washington DC. He was paralyzed from wounds he received in battle in Viet nam. They watched him make gradual but steady progress to recovery. This week he got emergency leave to visit his mother, Florence, at St. Alexis Hospital after she was suddenly stricken ill. When Ronald received word of his mother’s illness he said, “I told my doctor I was going home if I had to walk.” After being given a 3-day pass, his sister, Mrs. Kay Gorski flew to Washington and escorted Ron back with the aid of a cane and wheelchair. He is making steady and almost miraculous recovery from his paralysis and hopes to be transferred soon to the Cleveland VA Hospital. In talking to his friends he was overwhelmed with being back home. “You can’t imagine what a feeling it is to be back home. After my experience in Viet Nam, I thought I would never see this place again. It sure is a great feeling,” added Ron. Kimmel was hit during the Attleboro Operation in TayNihn Province. The bullet broke his jaw, traveled through mouth, neck lung and is still lodged in his spine. When Congressman Charles A. Vanik heard of Ron’s emergency visit to his mother’s bedside, he had the hospital staff extend his leave through Sunday.
1967 - KORAN WILL HEAD FIRE DEPARTMENT IN CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS
Paul Koran, a 40-year veteran of the Cuyahoga Heights Fire Department, was named chief in the 26-man department last night. He replaces Walter Kaczmarek who resigned last month. Kaczmarek, a 38-year member of the department, had been chief for four years. Koran, 61, joined the department in 1928. He was promoted to lieutenant in 1944 and to assistant chief, a newly-created post, four years ago. The new chief has been in charge of the department since March 1. Kaczmarek left then, although his retirement was not official until April 1. Koran’s old assistant chief post will be taken by one of three captains – Ray Wasky, Renado Guidotti or Walter Hazel. Mayor George Gallitz, who appointed Koran with Council’s approval, is expected to make the assistant chief appointment at the April 24 Council meeting. Appointment of a captain may come then also. Koran will receive $9,830 as a chief. He lives with his wife Ann at 7118 Marcelline Ct., Cuyahoga Heights. They have one daughter.
1967
Bob Schuschu, 4526 E. 49th St. has enlisted in the Army for three years, and is now at Fort Knox, KY for processing before being assigned to basic training. This is the third generation of the Schuschu family serving their country. His grandfather, Frank Schuschu of 7130 Bletch Ct., served in France during the First World War, and his Dad, Bob Sr. served in the South Pacific during the second.
1967
In Vietnam with the 1st Air Calvary is Pfc. David Domzalski, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Domzalski, 4668 E. 71st St., Cuyahoga Hts. Dave was an outstanding player on the Redskin basketball and football teams.
1967 - FIVE YEAR OLD BOY RUNS TWO MILES TO GET HELP FOR HIS GRANDFATHER
Little Jeffrey Borowy was praised as a hero today as his relatives recounted a freak accident which left the boy’s grandfather stranded deep in a Cuyahoga Heights woods Sunday. It was as the five year old and John Borowy; 51, walked in the ravine about two miles from the Borowy home, 4556 E. 49th St., that Jeffrey proved his mettle. Grandfather Borowy and the boy walked often together. This time, as the two shared the spirit of the young, the elder Borowy swung on a tree branch. The branch broke and Borowy fell to the ground, where he lay bleeding and unconscious. Somehow, young Jeffrey found his way through the two miles of thickets and woods to the Borowy home. “He just screamed out that gramps was in the woods and dying, and then he collapsed on the kitchen floor, said Mrs. Borowy. Later revived, the boy led neighbors to his still unconscious grandfather. They carried him out on a stretcher. Borowy suffered a concussion and is in fair condition at St. Alexis Hospital with face cuts and a broken nose. “He’s such a little hero. I look at him and think of him running through the underbrush and being lost and I thank God,” said Mrs. Borowy. The boy is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Borowy, who live at 4656 E. 49th St.
1967 EX-MAYOR GERDON TO SEEK POST AGAIN
Former Cuyahoga Heights Mayor William Gerdon said today he will file as a candidate for mayor with a slate of candidates for all village offices. Gerdon, 59, is the fourth person to enter the race. Other candidates are incumbent Mayor George Gallitz, Council President Louis Bacci and John Jackson, a former councilman. Gerdon’s slate will consist of Mrs. Olga Byrne and William Mycoski, both political newcomers, as candidates for clerk and treasurer. Council candidates on Gerdon’s slate are: Ralph Contipelli, David Kaczmarek, William Randle, Stanley Schab, Harry Schuman and Stanley Smith. Contipelli is the only incumbent on the slate. Gerdon was defeated by Gallitz by 14 votes in his bit in 1965. He served as mayor for 20 years.
1967 - BACCI WILL OPPOSE GALLITZ FOR MAYOR OF CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS
Even though mayor Gallitz is seeking reelection, Councilman Louis Bacci announced today he is candidate for mayor also. In April he said that he would be a mayoral candidate only if Gallitz was not running for reelection. “I thought it over and decided that George’s age and his health were of some concern. Also, my slate threw its support to him two years ago with the understanding that he wouldn’t run again,” Bacci said. Gallitz, 66, said that despite Bacci’s decision, he will remain in the race. “I’m still running for mayor and I haven’t considered withdrawing. My health has been 100% okay. Bacci said his slate will include incumbent Councilmen Stanley Klima, John Bohdan and John Hanousek and newcomers Elmer Schroeder, Joseph Kvasnok and Thomas Morrill. The first three and Bacci ran successfully with Gallitz in 1965. Both Bacci and Gallitz are expected to face opposition in November from former Mayor Gerdon, whom Gallitz defeated in 1965. Bacci, 40, is a cement contractor and manager of Lou Bacci & Son Co. He has served six terms as councilman and, during three of those years, was Council president. Gallitz has been in politics in Cuyahoga Heights for 35 years. He has served as clerk, treasurer and councilman during various years since 1932.
1967 - CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS NOW HAS BIG BILL GERDON BACK
Big Bill Gerdon jumped back on the Cuyahoga heights political merry-go-round last week. He beat three other mayoral candidates in regaining the office he lost two years ago. Mayor-elect William Gerdon, a big man in a small community had been mayor for 20 years when his opponents got together behind George J. Gallitz and defeated him in 1965. This year Gerdon mended a few political fences,” capitalized on the lack of unity among his opponents and beat them all at the polls. “I just campaigned harder,” said Gerdon in his deep gravel voice which was made hoarse by an election day cold. Cuyahoga heights candidates traditionally spend election day standing around a salamander heater on Dressler Court behind the village hall to greet voters. Gerdon’s six-feet-four-inch, 270 pound frame towered above two of his opponents, Mayor George J. Gallitz and Louis J. Bacci, from about 5 a.m. until after 10 p.m. when results were announced. The fourth mayoral candidate who did not uphold the tradition, John F. Jackson, received only 12 votes. Cuyahoga Heights has a two-party system: the Progressive party led by Gerdon and the Citizen’s party led this year by Bacci. Any candidate not on the slate of either of these two parties is called an independent. Gerdon is a Republican and showed his loyalty by serving as the personal bodyguard for the late Robert A. Taft during the 1948 and 1952 national conventions. He plowed through crowds to keep Taft on schedule and fathered a repertoire of stories in the process. Gerdon entered politics in 1943 when he was elected councilman. He had spent nearly 10 years as a policeman in the village. Two years later he ran for mayor and won by 17 votes. In the following 20 years the village grew in population and Gerdon kept pace; its policemen were among the first to get a 40-hour work week, the firemen got a 56-hour work week, the service dept. cleared snow from the sidewalks as well as the streets and an elegant $165,000 swimming pool was built. He once explained his success to a friend. “You’ve got to get up early to get ahead of me – but I don’t go to bed.” Village residents saw him up early I 1950 when the big snow came. He was riding a bulldozer through the streets to keep them clear while surrounding communities came to a standstill in the blizzard. Gerdon is a friendly man, quick to settle differences. After being defeated by Gallitz in 1965, he asked him for a job with the service department. “Gallitz turned me down. He said I would talk to people and get voter support on that job.” Only two of his slate were elected to council but he is not worried about getting along with the others. “At one time or another, all of the candidates, including the three mayoral candidates, were on my slate.”
December 12, 1967 - WILLIAM GERDON DIES
Mayor elect William Gerdon who was to have been sworn into office next month, died yesterday in Mt. Sinai Hospital, where he had been confined with a heart ailment. The man who earned the nickname of Big Bill because of his towering height and weight, had been mayor of Cuyahoga Heights 20 years before he was defeated in 1965 by treasurer, George Gallitz. Last month he made a political comeback, after a flamboyant campaign, defeating Gallitz and another candidate, Louis Bacci. Mr. Gerdon, who was 59, entered politics in 1943. Before that he spent nearly 10 years as a policeman in the village where he was born and reared. Two years after his election to council he became mayor by a 17-vote margin. He was outspoken and favored direct action. In a 1957 council caucus, he kayoed councilman William Randle, a good friend, with one punch. He believed in getting things done, sometimes at personal expense. During the big snow of 1950, he manned a bulldozer to help clear village streets. Surviving are his second wife, Frances; a son, William C., of California; and a sister. His home was at 4936 E. 49th St.
1967 - LAW DIRECTOR RULES GALLITZ TO BE CUYAHOGA HTS. MAYOR
A tentative opinion that Mayor George Gallitz remain in office for the next two years has been handed down by Cuyahoga Hts. Law Director, Loyal V. Buescher. It followed the death of Mayor-elect William Gerdon. “Our charter says a mayor is elected for two years or until a successor is elected and qualified,” Buescher said. “In my opinion, tentatively, it means Gallitz will continue into the next term” Buescher noted that the village’s charter, adopted in 1920, has no provisions for special elections, appointment by the governor or appointment by council in instances in which a mayor-elect dies. Gerdon had been scheduled to be sworn in as mayor Jan. 1. He defeated Gallitz, Louis J. Bacci and John F. Jackson. Buescher said that if Gerdon had been mayor at the time of his death, the council president would succeed him. That position is held by Stanley Klima. “But, of course, that’s not the case here,” Buescher commented. “Mayor Gallitz should succeed himself for a period of two years.” Gallitz, who just returned from three weeks in Florida after being defeated said: “If this is the ruling, I’ll stay on as mayor unless something different comes up.” Gerdon’s death probably will result in Buescher’s being retained as law director for another two years. After winning the election, Gerdon said he would hire someone else and Buescher, in turn, said he would resign.
1967 - BACCI TO FIGHT MAYOR RULING
Councilman Louis Bacci, who ran second in the Cuyahoga Heights mayoral election Nov. 7, said he will fight a tentative ruling that would allow Mayor Gallitz to retain his seat for two more years. The ruling was made by Law Director Loyal Buescher yesterday, a day after the death of Mayor-elect Gerdon. “I feel there should be something done,” Bacci said today. “A special election should be held so the people can decide who they want for mayor.” Bacci cites the voting in last month’s election to back up his reasoning. Gerdon had 212 votes, Bacci, 177, Mayor Gallitz 1313 and John Jackson, 12. “I think the mayor should stay on the job until a successor is elected by vote of the people as soon as possible. If I have to, I’ll take the matter to court,” said Bacci. Buescher defended his ruling which he said he expects to make final sometime this week.
SEPTEMBER 1968 - MAYOR GALLITZ RESIGNS FROM SUBURBAN POST
Last Wednesday, Mayor George Gallitz resigned his post in a letter to the village council in which he advised the legislative body that he was leaving for personal reasons effective Sept. 1, 1968. Although Gallitz was defeated in the 1967 November election, he retained the post due to the death of Mayor-elect William R. Gerdon prior to taking office. The village solicitor ruled that Gallitz should continue to serve as mayor until a qualified successor was elected. Due to the fact the village charter was not clear on the succession to the mayor’s post under these conditions, Gallitz continued to serve. An effort to hold a special election was requested by the petition of more than 300 of the suburb’s 500 eligible electors but a ruling by the Secretary of State advised the board of elections the procedure was not possible. Gallitz’s resignation closes a long political career of more than 35 years. He previously held the posts of councilman, clerk and treasurer. He is a retired railroad employee of the Newburgh and South Shore Railway. Tentative plans indicate that he and his wife, Lou will move to Florida later this year. Replacing Gallitz will be council president Stanley J. Klima, 59, who twice was an unsuccessful candidate for the post. Klima started his political career in the suburb in 1946 when he was a member of the Gerdon Progressive Party slate. He has served ten terms in council. Currently he is employed as s shipping foreman at the Grabler Mfg. Co.
FEBRAURY 23, 1968 - DAN MAREK PASSES AWAY
Funeral services were held Monday for former Cuyahoga Hts. Councilman Dan Marek from the S.J. Kubu Funeral Home and St. John Bosco Church. Marek, 64, a heavy construction worker was forced to retire more than a year ago because of ill health. He was born on the family farm in Valley View and educated in Independence schools. In political circles he was elected to three terms as councilman. His cousin, Albina Cermak is the well-known Republican leader and assistant State Auditor. Surviving are his wife Anna, son Robert, daughters Beryl and Lois, brothers Thomas and Steve, sisters Ann Zavesky, Rose Wolf, Agnes Tupa and Lillian Wilson.
1968
Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph A. Fess, 4563 E. 49th, announce the engagement of their daughter Janet Ann, to Mr. John R. Marolt, son of Mrs. John Marolt, 24300 Effingham Blvd., Euclid. Miss Fess is a graduate of Cuyahoga Heights High School and Ohio University. The couple plan an August 9 wedding at St. Stanislaus Church.
1968
St. Stanislaus Church was the marriage scene of Miss Janet Ann Fess, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Rudolph A. Fess, 4563 E. 49th St., and Mr. John R. Marolt, 24300 Effingham Blvd., Euclid. Following a reception at the Hillside Room, the couple left on a trip to Florida.
TEACHER RETIRES (approximately 1968-1969)
Iva Schoenfelt, veteran elementary teacher at Cuyahoga Heights School, will soon say good-bye to her last kindergarten class. After teaching at Cuyahoga Heights since 1945, she is retiring. She will be honored at a faculty school employee dinner given t the high school on Thursday evening, May 23. “I’ve had all kinds of children in my kindergarten classes,” Mrs. Schoenfelt commented, “but I’ve never had a child I didn’t like. Kindergarten has come a long way since it was primarily a play activity, now it includes mathematics, humanities, social studies and science.” Mrs. Schoenfelt, who lives with her husband, Bill, at 6731 Farview Rd., Brecksville, has long been active in the Brecksville Little Theatre. This summer she will direct the Children’s Theater.
1969
Karen Anne Smiecinski, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hess Sr., 7149 Bletch Court, was married November 26 in Holy Name Church to Franklin Hess, Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hess Sr. The bride is a graduate of Marymount High School
1969
Rev. Anthony Dodd officiated at the marriage of Miss Kathleen A. Masek, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James J. Masek, 7120 Marcelline Ct. and Lieut. Charles R. Cook Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles R. Cook of Toledo. They were married in Holy Name Church and are now living in Virginia Beach, VA where Lt. Cook is stationed at Fort Story.
1969
Pfc. James F. Crooks, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Crooks, 4646 E. 71st, is now attached to the B-5/22 Artillery. Jim, a graduate of Cuyahoga Hts. High School, was the service director prior to entry into the U.S. Army. His family and friends wish him luck in his tour of duty.
1969
Stationed at Fort Campbell, KY, is Pvt. Larry Pellini, son of Mr. and Mrs. Alio Pellini of 4837 E. 71st St. He is a graduate of Cuyahoga Hts. High School.
1969
Charles Podolski, son of Fireman and Mrs. Charles Podolski of Cuyahoga Heights, is in training at the U.S. Army base at Fort Campbell, KY. His family and friends wish him a successful tour of duty in the service.
1969
Pvt. Larry Kukoleck, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Kukoleck of 13707 Tinkers Creek Rd., recently finished his basic training at Fort Campbell, KY. He is now stationed at Fort Rucker, Alabama, where he specializes in helicopter mechanics.
1969
The marriage of Linda Schwarz and Terry Adorni took place July 30, 1969 at Fairmount Temple. The ceremony was followed by a reception at the Executive Club. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Schwarz of Shaker Heights. Parents of the groom are Mr. and Mrs. Cleri Adorni, of 4585 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Heights. The bride attended Ohio University and will continue her studies at Cleveland State. The groom is a senior majoring in accounting at Cleveland State.
1969
Last Sunday, Mrs. And Mrs. Frank Schuschu, 7130 Bletch Ct. celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary with an open house for the family and friends. They have been residents of Cuyahoga Heights for 45 years. Mr. Schuschu who is 75 and a veteran of World War I, worked at the Ohio Crankshaft Co. until retirement. They have a daughter, Edna (Mrs. Tony Wencke), son Robert, and five grandchildren. They were married June 5th which is also Mrs. Schuschu’s birthday. She is 69. Joining the celebration was their grandson, Pfc. Robert Schuschu, on leave from the U.S. Army at Percidio, San Francisco. Friends and neighbors extend congratulations and best wishes to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Schuschu.
1969 – TINY CUYAHOGA HTS. MAY FIGHT CITY ON HIRING
Tiny Cuyahoga Heights may meet the city of Cleveland head-on in another court battle. The issue in question is an agreement signed between the two 35 years ago. When improvements were made to the Southerly Sewage Treatment Plant located in the village, the city signed a contract allowing for 50% of the plant’s employees to be Cuyahoga Heights residents. Cleveland now wants out of the agreement. Should a court battle ensue, it will not be the first time the village has challenged the giant in a court of law. The village won a 1959 case against Cleveland concerning the agreement. Recently, Mayor Carl B. Stokes indicated that Cleveland was fed up with the deal, and would no longer “be blackmailed” by the agreement. Law Director Clarence L. James told the Plain Dealer this week that the contract is currently under review to determine what action the city will take. The original agreement was signed in 1916, but there were no specifications for hiring practices mentioned. Later, when plans were made for plant expansion in 1934, the village added the employee clause to the terms of the building permit. Not only does the agreement require that half the employees be Cuyahoga Heights residents, but the operating foreman of the plant must also reside in the village. The agreement was approved by Cleveland Mayor Harry L. Davis and the director of public utilities March 1, 1934. According to a member of the Cleveland law director’s office, terms were reached during the depression when the village was largely composed of Italian immigrants with no special job skills. The terms of the building permits were a boon to most Cuyahoga Heights residents during that period. Over the three decades since then, however, the suburb has prospered, and, according to Cleveland officials, no longer needs the employment safeguard. If this is the case, the city may win a court test. Cuyahoga Heights Mayor Stanley Klima said he will fight any move to alter the agreement. “The Village of Cuyahoga Heights never blackmailed anyone,” he said. “We have no disagreement whatever with the city of Cleveland. But, should they try to break the agreement, we will fight it right down the line.” Klima also noted the terms of a later agreement with Cleveland concerning the employment situation. Under the terms of a 1950 contract, Cleveland Mayor Thomas A. Burke confirmed an arrangement entered into at a conference of officials of the two municipalities wherein as many plant employees as possible would be hired from the village with “not less than 50% within or without classified Civil Service as may be accomplished legally.” Another point outlined in the 1950 agreement is that the mayor of Cuyahoga Heights will designate the persons for employment at the southerly plant. Consequently, applications for plant positions are submitted at the village hall and referred to officials at the plant. Klima confirmed this as the current procedure. The Southerly Sewage Treatment Plant has over 150 employees, but personnel at the plan would only identify 15 as Cuyahoga Heights residents. According to the agreement, at least 75 plant workers should be residents of the suburb. Plant policy may soon be under closer scrutiny should Cleveland decide to test the legality of its hiring practices.
1968-1973 REUNION ENDS BARACZES’ ORDEAL
Mrs. Beverly Baracz, 29, had a joyful reunion in Lisbon early today with her husband, kidnapped Brooklyn Hts. Police Sgt. Ronald Baracz. As soon as the abducted policeman was freed by his captor, Brooklyn Hts. Police drove her to meet him at the State Highway Patrol post in Lisbon, county seat of Columbiana County. The tense hours of fear and apprehension had ended. They had begun when her husband had left their home at 365 Tuxedo Ave. at midnight Wednesday. About four hours later, he had disappeared mysteriously and a massive search was begun after his empty cruiser was found yesterday morning. While their two daughters, Sherrie, 7, and Lori, 5, were taken care of by relatives, Mrs. Baracz waited for word of the end of the search. It didn’t come until nearly 24 hours later – but it was good news leading to the happy reunion. She hugged and kissed her husband, but declined to have her picture taken. During the ordeal, Mrs. Baracz had expressed confidence that her husband, a seven-year officer in Brooklyn Hts., would be able to take care of himself. Brooklyn Hts. Mayor Robert Cusick said Baracz was an excellent officer. It was a night when a police sergeant’s $4.20 an hour pay didn’t seem enough, even in a usually quiet little suburb with a six-man police force.
1968-1973 TAVERN KEEPER BOUND; ROBBED
Rayno Antognozzi, owner of Hillside Tavern, 4617 E. 71st, was bound and robbed by two men early last Thursday. Posing as telephone company repairmen, the pair awakened the owner, who opened the door to permit the men to enter. They cut the phone lines and bound Antognozzi. They searched the premises and found an undisclosed amount of cash. A passing motorist saw the two men wearing yellow-blue hard hats leave their car shortly after 7 a.m. To date, there are no suspects being held.
1968-1973 – HARVARD AVENUE MAN CHARGED IN TOWN HALL BREAK-IN
A 33-year old Harvard Ave. man has been charged for breaking and entering the Cuyahoga Hts. Town Hall shortly before 2 a.m. last Thursday. He broke into the clerk’s office and attempted to open the safe with a screwdriver and hammer. The noise awakened Stanley B. Chase, 70, the custodian, who lives in the 3-room apartment at the hall. When he checked the corridor the suspect fled. The Cuyahoga Heights police with the help of neighboring departments conducted a search of the surrounding area. They were alerted by the Independence police car that two men were walking along the freeway near the Cloverleaf intersection. Upon investigation the suspect was taken into custody when it was determined that he offered help to a motorist who was stalled on Route 21. Police quickly identified the suspect as a recent traffic violator who had appeared in the mayor’s court on a speeding charge. He apparently had attempted to retrieve the $17 fine and $6.60 in court costs which he paid after pleading guilty to the speeding charge. If convicted of the present breaking and entering of an inhabited dwelling charge he faces a 5 to 30 year prison sentence. The bond was set at $7,500
1968-1973 – VILLAGERS GET RIGHT TO STRIKE
Cuyahoga Heights Mayor Louis Bacci figures if President Nixon can have a bowling alley in the White House he can have one in the Village Hall. Bacci has reopened the village’s four lanes which have been closed to the public since 1962. Since then only children in Cuyahoga Heights schools used the alleys. Now residents and their guests will be able to bowl in the Village Hall Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. The charge will e 25 cents a line. When the alleys were built by the WAPA in 1936 they shared the room in the Village Hall basement with two table tennis tables. “In 1947 they took out the tables and put in two more lanes. Then in 1962 we put in semi-automatic pin setters. When I was younger they were open every day,” the Mayor said. “We want to see what the demand will be now.”
1968-1973 – FONTANA HAS EYE SET ON 2ND VICTORY
Will the last one be the first one? That’s the question posed by the fans who watched Tim Fontana’s exciting come-from-behind Super Stocks victory last weekend in the 100-lap Cleveland 100 – a race that rates with the best ever in area oval track history, and which earned the rookie, Fontana, a $1,000 cash award. Fontana will be out to prove it was no fluke Sunday night when the Cloverleaf action program includes a 30-lap feature and a Demolition Derby.
1968-1973 – CUYAHOGA HTS. TAXES LOW, BUT IT’S NOT ALL ROSES
My heart goes out to the communities of Olmsted Falls and others who feel it is unfair that Cuyahoga Heights School District has such a high tax duplicate that we can spend much more per pupil than they can due to the large amount of industry we have. We have to put up with the inconvenience of foul smells and filthy air that industry is bound to bring. Why shouldn’t we benefit as far as low taxes are concerned? Other communities have constantly turned down industry, because it is beneath them to have it in their backyard. Ask the residents of those communities if they would be willing to give up their spacious yards and clean, fresh air to move into the Cuyahoga Heights School District so that their children may have a better education. I doubt very much if they would. MRS. LAWRENCE MACK, 7138 Marcelline Ct., Cuyahoga Heights
1968-1973 – CUYAHOGA HTS. PLANS PARK WORK
Improvements to Chapek’s Grove, the village park in Cuyahoga Heights, may get underway later this year. Engineer Charles V. McKinney will prepare preliminary plans for improvements. Council authorized him to do the work last week. “If everything moves along as it should, work should be started at the park sometime this year,” Mayor Stanley Klima said. “It’s about time we did something about Chapek’s Grove. We’ve been talking about it for some time.” Klima said a pavilion with restrooms and a kitchen will be built. The old refreshment stand will be replaced. The ball diamond may be relocated and tennis courts may be built. Klima estimated cost of the improvement at $100,000.
1968-1973 – MAYOR BACCI WON’T FIGHT ALCOA TAX CUT
Cuyahoga Heights Mayor Lou Bacci will not fight a request by Alcoa for an $8 million reduction in tax valuation. The Cuyahoga Heights School Board has made no decision yet, but Supt. Allan Holland indicated the schools too may let the request go unchallenged. Based on present tax rates, the full cut would cost the school system $100,000 a year, the village $35,000 and the South Central Vocational Education District $11,000. If the company wins its case, it will also be entitled to repayment of $280,000 in back taxes. Most of the money would come from the school system. The plant at 2210 Harvard Ave. is the second-largest taxpayer in the village and the school district. Its tax valuation has been cut from $18 million to $15.5 million, but the company is asking a reduction to $7.2 million. Bacci said he was watching the situation closely, and he indicated that if the plant closed completely that there would be a high loss of income tax revenue. But he said he did not know how many people were employed at the plant or how much they paid in Cuyahoga Heights income taxes. Holland said that he will have to see the actual figures before he can make any comment about the tax loss. A 78-page appraisal submitted by Alcoa says that 45% of its property there is no longer being used and more is to be abandoned in the near future. The report says that the plant’s work force is down from 2500 in 1969 to 1700 this year. There has been speculation that the plant would close its operations completely.
JUNE 1972 – POLICEMAN HIT DIRECTING TRAFFIC
Patrolman Frank J. Feuerstein, 45, was seriously injured last night when struck by a car while directing traffic at the flooded intersection of E. 49th and Grant Ave. in Cuyahoga Heights. He was in guarded condition in the intensive care unit at St. Alexis Hospital with two broken arms, a broken leg, a possible fractured jaw and multiple scalp and facial cuts. Police said a 38-year old Cleveland woman was driving northeast on E. 59th St. when she hit Feuerstein and his police car. She was being held for questioning. The flooding was caused by heavy rain yesterday. The night it happened, Feuerstein stopped at home about 6 where his wife, Anna Marie, 41, had supper and his birthday cake – his favorite, pineapple upside down cake. “That’s no birthday cake,” Brian, 5, shouted. Feuerstein mussed Brian’s hair and said: “It’s for me.” Along with his two other children, Mark, 11, and Lisa, 8, the Feuersteins finished their meal. The patrolman told his wife: “Save the cake. When I get home at 11 we’ll have cake and coffee.” He never got home. He may not be home for some time. He will be transferred shortly to Highland View Hospital for extensive therapy. Feuerstein is not too keen on that. He told his wife: “Take me home. My kids will be my therapy.” Mark is a manager of the Cuyahoga Heights football team. When the children finally got permission to visit their father at the hospital there was a tearful reunion. Lisa broke the somber spell when she begged her father: “Daddy, you have to come home soon. We have a lot of broken toys for you to fix.” Feuerstein is an expert fixer of toys. He can do just about anything around the home he built himself at 4703 E. 71st Street. He was a carpenter before becoming a policeman. He said he preferred the steady salary of a policeman to the uncertainty of seasonal work. Days are long in the hospital and Feuerstein frequently asks his wife: “When am I coming home?” It won’t be soon. Meanwhile, neighbors, friends and fellow policemen will hold a benefit party for him at Chapek Gardens, 4646 E. 71st Street, on September 24. There will be dancing and food from 4 to 11 p.m It is sponsored by the Cuyahoga Heights Police Department.
Another article – Patrolman Frank J. Feuerstein’s birthday cake is still waiting for him after almost three months in the freezer. The Cuyahoga Heights policeman was critically injured June 28, his 45th birthday, when he was struck by a speeding car while directing traffic around high water at eh Grant Ave. exit ramp of Interstate 77. The 12-year veteran was knocked 50 feet. The case of the woman driver is still pending in court. He was taken to St. Alexis Hospital where he was in a come for six weeks. He is still in the hospital in a body cast recovering from two broken wrists, two broken ankles, a broken jaw, a broken leg, internal injuries and head injuries.
JUNE 1972
Final rites were held Saturday morning for James Harvey Bloam, long-time resident of Cuyahoga Heights. Prior to his illness, Mr. Bloam had worked as a carpenter and cabinetmaker. Surviving are his wife, Alice (nee Kester), son Earl and daughter Debra, two grandchildren, brothers and sisters.
JUNE 1972 – RAY SKIBA DIES AFTER HEART ATTACK
Raymond Skiba, former resident of Cuyahoga Hts., died Monday after suffering a fatal heart attack while swimming in Newark, Ohio. He had moved to the Columbus area last fall and worked for an architectural firm in Newark. He was active in the Red Cross safety program in Cleveland and directed the canoe activities and the Water Olympics for the handicapped. He also served one term as member of the Cuyahoga Heights Board of Education. Mr. Skiba was a graduate of Cuyahoga Hts. School and served with the U.S. Navy in the South pacific during World War II. He graduated from the Cleveland Engineering Institute after the war. The Komorowski Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Surviving are his wife Mildred (nee Blue) four daughters and a son. His late parents were long-time residents of the Orchard area. He and his wife were to celebrate their Silver Wedding anniversary in August.
JUNE 1972
Funeral services were held in Holy Name Church on Tuesday for Andrew J. Kruzel, 87, who was an early settler in Cuyahoga Hts. He lived at his East 71 St. address for 50 years. Prior to retirement 17 years ago he was employed at the Southerly Treatment Plant. During World War II his son, Sgt. Kenneth Kruzel, died in combat in the Pacific Islands while serving with the 145th Infantry of the Ohio 37th Division. Surviving are a brother, Joseph, children Raymond, Helen Snyder, Dorothy Bartczak and Robert, 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
1972 STEEL WORKER RETIRES
Rudolph A. Fess has retired after nearly 39 years of service with U.S. Steel at its Cuyahoga plant here, it has been announced by Harry V. Newell, division superintendent. Mr. Fess, a turn foreman in the plant’s cold roll department since 1946, began his career there in 1933 as a helper. In 1938 he became an operator in the rolling department. He and his wife, Pauline, are the parents of two grown children: Albert and Janet. They reside at 4563 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Hts.
1973 – TOMATO KING
Winner of the 1973 Tomato Derby in Cuyahoga heights is Stanley Jack Klima, councilman and former mayor. Jack won the coveted honor for picking the first ripe tomato of the current season two weeks ago. The traditional honors in the past were shared by ex-police chief Frank Bartczak, Marcel “Bus” Golene, Joe Klir, Jim Masek and Steve Czekalski.
1973 – QUICK THINKING SAVES LIFE OF CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS FIREMAN
Thanks to the quick thinking of an off duty nurse, a Cuyahoga Heights fireman is alive and resting in Marymount Hospital. Thirty-seven year old Lillian Zitkiewicz, who was on her way home from St. Alexis Hospital, administered mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to fireman Gerald McCandless, 57, who had helped put out a fire in an auto involved in an accident on U.S. 21 near Ohio 17 in Valley View late Friday night. Clayton Watlington, 19, of 5221 Lee Rd. apparently crashed into a semi-trailer truck. The other driver was not held. Mrs. Zitkiewicz and two other St. Alexis employees, nurses Mary Halfhill, 24, and Delores O’Neil, 45, along with Inhalation Therapist Robert Ruffner, tried to keep Watlington alive, but he was pronounced dead at St. Alexis at 12:34 a.m. Fireman had worked an hour to remove him from the wreckage. McCandless, 4912 E. 49th St. was rushed to Marymount Hospital where he was reported to have suffered a heart attack. He was removed from the intensive care unit Monday and will remain in the hospital for another two weeks. The stretch of Route 21 has been the scene of numerous accidents in recent months.
DECEMBER 1973
Lucian Anielski, beloved husband of Helen (nee Houdek), father of Lucille Klir, and Wayne, grandfather of two, son of Julia and the late Frank, brothers and sisters surviving. S.J. Kubu & son Funeral Home, 3271 E. 55th, where services will be held Wednesday, Dec. 12. Interment Brooklyn Hts. Cemetery.
JANUARY 1974 – GEORGE J. GALLITZ DIES, SERVED CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS
George J. Gallitz served his hometown of Cuyahoga Heights as a public official for nearly 32 years. He served as mayor from 1966 to 1968. Mr. Gallitz, 72, died at Marymount Hospital. He and his wife, Luella, were visiting the home of their daughters, Mrs. Henry Humphrey, 4936 E. 71st St. In recent years, Mr. Gallitz and his wife lived in Florida part of the year. Mr. Gallitz went to work for the Newburgh & South Shore Railroad in 1916. He became superintendent of car service and retired in 1965 with nearly 50 years service. Mr. Gallitz began his political career in 1932 as a councilman, a post he held five years. He later served seven years as village clerk before becoming treasurer for 18 years. He was then elected mayor. Mr. Gallitz was defeated by William Gerdon in his 1967 bid for reelection, but Gerdon died before he could be sworn in, and Mr. Gallitz continued in office. Mr. Gallitz is also survived by son George A. Funeral Mass will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Church, Woodland Ave. and E. 23rd St.
SEPTEMBER 1974
Funeral services were held Monday for Frank P. Schuschu, 80, long time resident of Cuyahoga Hts. He was a veteran of World War I and a member of the VFW 6566. Mr. Schuschu retired 15 years ago from his maintenance post at the Ohio Crankshaft Co. he and his wife were married 55 years. Surviving are his wife, Gladys; daughter Edna Wencke and son Robert, five grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; brothers Charles, Edward, Oscar and sister Margaret Spader.
SEPTEMBER 1974 – SON OF CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS MAYOR KILLED IN CRASH
Louis J. Bacci Jr., 23, the son of the mayor of Cuyahoga Heights, was killed early yesterday when the pickup truck he was driving ran off a Cleveland Metropolitan Park District road in solon and struck a tree. Bacci, of 4833 E. 71st St., Cuyahoga Heights, was heading south on metropolitan Park Drive about 200 feet north of Solon Rd., when the accident occurred at 2:30 a.m., said James G. Johnson, deputy chief of the metropolitan park rangers. Johnson said there were indications that the truck was traveling over the speed limit of 30 miles per hour. A passenger, James Meyer, 29, of 26240 Broadway Rd., Oakwood, was in fair condition in Suburban community Hospital yesterday with a leg fracture. Bacci’s father said his son raced stock cars as a hobby. He owned Bacci Bros. excavating company, which he took over when his father became mayor three years ago, the elder Bacci said. Survivors include his wife, Kathleen, 22, and two children, 4 and 2 years old.
1974 – AUCTION WINNER TO BECOME C.H. MAYOR FOR A DAY
Auction ’74 go-Getters who acquired a day out of Cuyahoga Heights Mayor Louis Bacci’s schedule for Channel 25’s Auction 74 are shown left to right with the mayor. Mrs. Albert Fess, 4561 E. 49 St., and Mrs. Tim Harris, 4727 E. 71 St., asked the mayor to allow an escort to follow him around during this busy schedule and be Mayor for a Day with him. The person who bids the highest for this prize during the auction, to be held May 12 to 19, will be the lucky person.
ABOUT 1975
Mrs. Margaret Gutfranski wished to announce the engagement of her daughter, Rosalind Marie to Mr. Reno Santini Jr. Both are graduates of Cuyahoga Hts. High School. Rosalind is a graduate of Cuyahoga Community College with an associate degree in Physical Therapy and is currently working on the staff of Sunny Acres Hospital. Reno is a graduate of Akron University with a B.S. Degree in business Administration and is a fireman in the Village of Cuyahoga Heights. A September wedding is planned.
JUNE 1975
Louis Ezzo, 58, of Cuyahoga Heights, passed away at St. Alexis Hospital recently. He had suffered a stroke on Sunday and was taken to the hospital by the suburb’s fire department. Mr. Ezzo, an employee of the County Engineer’s Office, served in World War II and saw action in the European Theater with the U.S. Army. After the war he worked at the Hillside Tavern as a chef and bartender. He was born and raised in Independence where he played football with the Bluedevils.
1976 – LOSS OF FREE SEWER SERVICE OPOSED IN CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS
Despite some public resentment, Cuyahoga Heights council is expected to vote tonight to ratify a court settlement which would force residents and industry to start paying for sewage treatment. The settlement was arrived at earlier this week and provides for the village to receive $250,000 to abandon a 1916 agreement which provided free sewage treatment because the Southerly sewage plant is in Cuyahoga Heights. In return residents will begin paying for treatment in degrees until they are paying the full amount – about $53 a year, by 1980. The Cleveland Regional sewer District said such an agreement was necessary because federal funds for improvements to Southerly and other plants would be held up. Newburgh Heights, Cuyahoga Heights’ neighbor to the north, has also been receiving free wastewater treatment and will also be affected in the same way by the agreement. According to Councilman Mary Jean Bloam, five or six councilmen support the agreement. She is the lone opponent and intends to speak against it tonight at 7. “Residents I have talked to are very upset about this. They feel they have been sold down the river. With the attorney fees we are paying and with the loss of the drive-in movie because of the plant expansion, we are losing out.” She aid. Southerly expansion is taking the Canal Rd. Drive-in Theater, and Mrs. Bloam said this would reduce the village tax duplicate. Former Mayor Stanley Klima also protested against the settlement. “We’ve had this agreement for 60 years and it should have been continued,” he said. “That was an iron-bound contract which cannot be broken.” Klima said he was not upset with Mayor Louis Bacci for supporting the agreement.
1977
Pauline Fess (nee Fesco), wife of Rudolph A., mother of Albert, Janet Marolt, grandmother of seven. Sister of Helen Szabo, Kathleen Boroski, Margaret Dugar and the deceased John. Funeral May 28.
1977 – HARRIS WINS IN CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS
Timothy Harris will fill the seat of William Randle on the Cuyahoga Heights Village Council. Randle lost after enjoying a legislative career on council that spanned 20 years. Harris joins five incumbents who were reelected. The results were as follows: John Bohdan, 247, Thomas Borowy, 206, Ralph Contipelli, 279, John Hanousek, 260, Timothy Harris, 278, James Masek, 291, William Randle, 192, Chester Suchocki, 198, Brian Vaccher 165 and James Henley, 14. Henley withdrew from the race and could not have his name removed from the ballot.
1977 – RAILROAD CAR TUMBLES FROM EAST 49 ST. BRIDGE
For the second time in three weeks a railroad car tumbled from a local bridge to create a major traffic jam. Last Thursday, shortly before 4 p.m. a 21-car derailment of a 100-car Conrail freight train created a major traffic jam on E. 49 Street in Cuyahoga Heights. A car loaded with shelled corn fell from the bridge and blocked the roadway. The car ripped down high tension power lines and telephone wires. Service was cut off to the homes and factories in the area. The road was cleared to traffic in 12 hours, while CEI crews and railroad workers cleaned up the corn and restored power. Due to the detour on E. 71 Street, Cuyahoga Heights police rerouted traffic over I-77 during evening rush hours. Three weeks ago a runaway gondola car loaded with coke fell into East 55 St. near McBride causing a major traffic tie-up. The derailment of some 20 cars was caused by a malfunction of the brake system as the cars were parked along the right of way. Cleveland police and railroad officials also investigated the incident for possible sabotage. The Cuyahoga Heights derailment involved a 100-car Conrail train bound for Philadelphia. Officials of the railroad are investigating the possible cause of the mishap. No one was hurt in the accident.
1977 – A PLEA FOR SAFER RAILROAD TRACKS
I live two houses north of the railroad track s on E. 49th St. in Cuyahoga Heights. On November 3, 21 cars of a Conrail freight train were derailed – the third derailment there in five years and, may I add, the worst. Thoughts come to mind, since one car landed right on E. 49th St., of the tragedies that could have occurred. Sohio Refiner trucks travel E. 49th St. every hour of the day under this bridge. An explosion from one of these trucks could have been a disaster. Worse yet, two school buses pass under the bridge around the time of the accident. The high school bus passed under the bridge two to three minutes before the accident. The elementary school bus was due under the bridge within five minutes after the derailment. My seven-year-old daughter was on that bus. The thoughts are horrifying of what could have happened to these children. Please, Conrail, if you value human life keep the tracks in repair – not just today or when the next accident occurs, but every day. BEATRICE DUBER, 4641 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Heights.
1977 – SEWER DISTRICT PLANTS HERE ARE HIT BY STRIKE
Workers at the three Cleveland Regional Sewer District waste treatment plants went on strike for higher pay at midnight last night, leaving plant operations in the hands of supervisors. Local 2798 of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees rejected a two-year contract offer calling for a 9% wage increase each year, said Raymond Kudukis, president of the district trustees. A 30-month contract expired at midnight Dec. 31 but was mutually extended until yesterday. Joseph Kuba, Local 2798 president, could not be reached for comment. More than 230 union members were expected to picket these plants: southerly, 6000 Canal Road, Westerly, 5800 Memorial Shoreway, and Easterly, 14021 Lake Shore Blvd. Kudukis said management personnel would operate the facilities. They will have to live on the premises, but we’ll maintain treatment. Kudukis said Local 2798 demanded a 14% increase and a one-year contract. This would have increased the average hourly wage by 68 cents. The district’s offer amounted to 44 cents.
1977 – RETURN, SEWER DISTRICT STRIKERS TOLD
The Cleveland Regional Sewer District withdrew its wage offer to striking workers yesterday and demanded they return to work before resuming contract negotiations. Raymond Kudukis, president, also said the board rejected the union’s request for federal mediation. James E. Moore, associate director of District 78 of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, accused the sewer district of bargaining in bad faith. Meanwhile, supervisors continued to operate the three sewage treatment plants. The sewer district was struck by Local 2798 Jan. 13 after talks broke off and the 300-member union rejected an offer that contained a 33-cent hourly raise and an 11-cent an hour improvement in hospitalization. The union wants a 68-cent-an-hour package that includes a 40-cent raise, 11 cents for hospitalization, 7 for health and welfare and 10 for a shift differential. At one point in the bargaining the two sides were only 7 cents apart.
1977 – BLAST ROCKS SOUTHERLY SEWAGE PLATN YESTERDAY
An explosion before 1 p.m. yesterday rocked the Southerly Sewage plant on Canal Road. The blast was felt for a mile from the site and sent Cuyahoga Heights scurrying to the streets. According to early reports the explosion was confined to a two-story building referred to as the “blower building”. Cause of the explosion was not known at press time. Cuyahoga Heights firemen rushed three employees to Marymount Hospital but the injuries were not considered serious. The Cleveland Fire Dept. also responded with several units and stood by as the site was surveyed. The building suffered major damage as the roof and two walls were blown out.
1977 – BLAST HURTS 3, LEVELS BIG BUILDING
Investigators are seeking the cause of a blast yesterday that leveled most of a two-story brick building at the Southerly sewage treatment plant, 6000 Canal Rd., Valley View. The explosion at about 12:45 p.m. shook windows miles away and shot a massive plume of smoke skyward. Three employees treated at Marymount Hospital for minor injuries were Michael McLaughlin, 49, of 3360 Berea Rd; James Bishop, 34 of 10012 Aetna Rd and LeRoy Furst, 42, of 475 E. 117th. McLaughlin and Bishop told Cleveland Regional Sewer District officials they had just started a machine when the explosion came. Both were thrown through an open doorway. Six other workers, who normally would have been in the building, were elsewhere on the grounds in a safety meeting. The building contained diesel-driven blowers that aerated sewage as part of the secondary treatment process. Director Andrew T. Ungar said the sewage can be pumped to another plant for treatment. Ungar said the plan handles about 100 million gallons of sewage daily.
1977 - SCHUSCHU RETIRING
Bob Schuschu retired from CRSD last week after 28 years of service, mostly as Supervisor B of the Labor Crew. With a total of 32 years of PERS, Bob will look forward to many relaxing days of well earned rest and relaxation. Bob will devote more time to fishing and camping, especially at Berlin Reservoir. He and his wife, Lenore, will have plenty of ideas on what to do from their four children, Frank, Bob, Lynn and Lorraine. Next winter, I plan to head South, he noted. When asked what part of the country he preferred, he replied, “I want to try it all.” That’s the right attitude. Thanks for many years of dedicated service Bob, and good luck with a happy, productive retirement.
JUNE 1977 – WRITE A EULOGY TO A LOST FRIEND
Timothy Santini’s 18 short years of life ended on June 5 in a tragic accident. It is a tremendous loss to those who knew him well. Tim was a special person, unique in every way. He was sometimes bright and rowdy, yet sometimes quiet and thoughtful. He was one of the kindest and sweetest persons I have ever known. He was a best friend to all those who gave him the chance to be. He was full of generosity, willing to help, give advice, or do almost anything just at the asking. His interest, knowledge and ability in cars, motorcycles and machinery were remarkable. Although at time he may not have shown it, he had the deepest love and respect for his parents, family and friends. He taught me to try to find the best in everyone, as he tried to do. He taught me to take one day at a time, to take advantage of hat it had to offer and live it to its fullest. Also he taught me not to let myself be put down by others – to just do my best to live up to my expectations, not those of everyone else. I’ll always remember the times we shared. With him goes a part of me. SUE ROSENLIEB, 17, Cuyahoga Heights High School.
ABOUT 1977 - TRIO FACES CHARGES IN KIDNAP-ASSAULT CASE
Within six minutes after the police were alerted two thugs were apprehended by Newburgh Heights police following an assault and burglary in nearby Cuyahoga Heights. The bizarre chain of events started at the parking lot of Cuyahoga Community college at E. 30 and Central when the trio attacked and beat Jack Weigand. They demanded money and when he could produce a small amount they ordered him to drive them to his home. Instead of driving to his home he directed them to the home of his in-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Aguzzi of Willowbrook Dr., Cuyahoga Hts. He was fearful of driving them to his home since only his wife was there and he felt Mr. Aguzzi would be home and render him aid. When two of the assailants drove to the Willowbrook home, they confronted Mrs. Aguzzi. When she resisted they slugged her in the face. When Mr. Aguzzi came into the room the pair fled and the Aguzzi’s called for help. The area police departments were alerted by radio. Patrolmen Richard Brink and Gerald Hoehn spotted the suspect’s car and apprehended them. The adult and juvenile suspects are currently on probation and parole. They face charges of felonious assault and aggravated burglary. The third member of the group was picked up by the Cleveland Police and will be charged before the grand jury. Mrs. Aguzzi was hospitalized and must undergo major dental treatment.
1978 – SHE BAKED UP A STORM
At the height of the January 26 blizzard, Patty Crooks was dreaming up cookie recipes in her warm country kitchen in Independence. Patty loves to bake and likes to have some fresh cookies and baked goods on hand for her husband Jim. Jim works day and night seven days a week and forever during blizzard times. He’s the service director for Cuyahoga Heights and helps keep the city streets clear and the heavy trucks in top shape. Last Sunday he left after supper and returned home at 2:30 a.m., but that’s okay with Patty who catnaps until he gets home. She was stuck at home the day the blizzard struck and couldn’t make it to her job at Healthco, Schuemann and Jones, a medical supply firm. So, she did what comes naturally – she baked. “I had a combination in mind. Chocolate and raisins go together in candy bars so I started putting the basics together and threw in some cinnamon, then the chips and raisins. They turned out so good and Jim loved them. I decided to call them blizzard cookies,” said the 28-year-old June bride who also likes to paint, ski and travel. Patty ahs never entered a cooking contest but is off to a good start with this blizzard cookie. She likes to make the cookies larger and press the tops down slightly so they flatten. You may want to drop heaping teaspoonful onto a greased cookie sheet. This last method makes a softer cookie but both will store well and even improve after standing in an air-tight container. “You know, I can’t remember a day at home when I was young that my mother didn’t bake something. There were nine children to cook for so I grew up watching her and my interest in food grew, too.” Generously Patty shared her cookie recipe with us. We baked then one snowy evening and agreed with Jim Crooks’ appraisal – they are really good. We thought you’d like to try this homespun-type cookie that looks a lot like hermits and smells absolutely divine when baking.
1978 – FIREFIGHERS GIVE MD A FULL BOOT
The Muscular Dystrophy Drive got a tremendous lift from the firefighters in Cuyahoga Hts. And Garfield Hts. In a three hour drive the Cuyahoga Hts. Firemen raised $670 from motorists at the I-77 Grand Ave. ramp and E. 71st St. intersection. The firemen had the motorists drop their conations into the boots. “It was gratifying to see the kind motorists drop their contributions into the boots,” added Lt. Lee Billi who led the drive. The firemen raised a total of $900 which was presented to Jerry Lewis on the TV telethon.
1869 – WILLOW HOUSE SHERIFF SALE
Pursuant to the Command of an order of sale directed to me from the Court of Common Pleas for said County, in the cause of Noyes B. Prentice, et al., plaintiffs, against Lorin B. Hale, et al., defendants, I shall proceed to sell at public sale at the south door of the County Courthouse in the City of Cleveland, in said county on the 22d day of May, 1869, at 10 o’clock a.m. of said day, the following described lands and tenements, to wit: Situate in said County of Cuyahoga, Ohio, and known and described as follows, being part of Lots Nos. 301 and 302, and commencing in centre of Brecksville road seven chains and eighty-one links southerly from north line of said lot 302, thence west thirteen chains and ninety-one links; thence south six chains and fifty-nine links; thence north 85 degrees east thirteen chains and sixty links to said road; thence north 2 ½ deg. East along the centre of said road to the place of beginning, containing about ten acres, except therefrom on the south side about 5 65/100 acres, conveyed by A. Andrews to Charles Palmer and Mary A. Banker. Said property above described is known as the Willow House, and being the same on which the grantors now reside. Appraised at four thousand $4000 dollars. JOHN N. FRAZER, Sheriff
1872 – THROWN FROM A BUGGY – ONE MAN KILLED AND ANOTHER SEVERELY BRUISED
Sometime after dark Sunday evening a fatal accident occurred on a hill near the “Charter Oak,” which resulted in the death of a young man named Nicholas Kennedy and the severe injuring of another named George Lowrey. Coroner Miller held an inquest on Monday at which the following facts were elicited: George Lowrey, one of the occupants of the buggy, testified that he had been employed by Mr. Rock since Friday; that on Sunday, between eleven and twelve o’clock in the forenoon, he obtained a buggy from Mrs. Ames and drove to a saloon, No. 74 Michigan Street, to get a lunch. He then drove back to Newburgh and went to the Willow House. There he met Kennedy and they drank some beer together. Kennedy asked and obtained permission to ride to Newburgh with witness. They started back and when going down the fatal hill some people in a buggy came up behind and when opposite witness’ vehicle whipped their horse, at which the horse Lowrey was driving took fright, turned suddenly and overturned the buggy, after which witness did not seem to remember anything except that he washed the blood from his head somewhere. Ashley Ames stated he started in the evening to look for his horse and buggy, that while going down the hill he saw a carriage capsized and recognized it as his. In a ditch fifteen or twenty feet away he saw deceased lying, apparently in the place where he had been thrown. A few feet distant was a pool of blood, which he supposed must have flowed from Lowrey’s wounds. A.J. Spencer testified that Kennedy was taken to his house, unconscious, and remained insensible until about three o’clock Monday morning, when he died. Lowrey was at the house and said he had never seen Kennedy until that day. William Stewart related how about half past eight o’clock Sunday evening Lowrey went to his house and said someone had knocked him down, kicked and tried to rob him. Lowry seemed sober at the time and was badly bruised. Afterward he said that he had had a runaway; that he had had a scuffle in the buggy with the man riding with him; and again that another buggy had run into his. He appeared confused and witness could not get a straight story from him. Drs. Jones and Brooks testified that the skull of the deceased was broken in several places and that they found clots of blood on the entire brain. A verdict was returned that Kennedy came to his death by being accidentally thrown from a buggy. Deceased was a young man about twenty-five years old and was working for William Saddler, who testified that Kennedy was not in the habit of getting drunk.
1877 – CRUELTY TO ANIMALS
The men recently arrested for cockfighting at the Willow House, near eight mile lock, were before police court yesterday. A number of the cases were disposed of, with various fines attached. When the name of Ed. Seward was called there was no response and an investigation showed that that individual, with characteristic sang froid, had left the city a few days since and had not returned as yet. Seward was not caught on the spot, although he was seen there and a warrant was afterward sworn out for him. It is rumored that Seward has a warm friend on the force who has helped him off before and possibly he is depending on his offices to get him out of this scrape.
JULY 16, 1883 – BEER AND BLOOD - The Horrible Sunday Riot at the Willow House – What an Eyewitness Saw – Particular of the Terrible Affair
Out on the road to Brecksville, about half a mile beyond the city limits, is a picnic resort known as the Willow House. It is a pleasant place and much frequented by pleasure parties. Yesterday the House was neat and clean and orderly, surrounded by a green lawn and plats of flowers. Today, when a Plain Dealer reporter visited the spot, he found everything in the direst confusion. The house was a wreck, the windows shattered, doors splintered, fences torn down, the lawn covered with debris, the flower beds trampled into hopeless ruin and a general appearance that a pitched battle had been fought prevailed. And so there was. Yesterday a party of picnickers from the Eighteenth ward went out to the Willow House to spend the day. They were mostly Germans with their wives, children, and sweethearts. There was music and feasting and a general pleasant time all day long. The people in attendance were peaceful, quit people and there would have been no disorder if they had been left unmolested. But a gang of hoodlums and rowdies gathered and went out to the Willow House with intent to make trouble. They made themselves unpleasant all afternoon, conducted themselves boisterously and swaggered about. They made rough jokes, and insulted women. They threatened and made all the trouble they could. Bad feeling was worked up and a storm cloud gathered which soon burst. A young German sat with a lady at a table drinking beer. One of the bullies came along and leered at the lady. Then he reached out his cane and deliberately upset the beer. “What did you do that for?” asked the young German, with a dangerous gleam in his eyes. “What will you do about it?” asked the ruffian tauntingly, at the same time calling him a vile name and hitting him on the face. The room was crowded and the blow on the face of the young man was the signal for a general melee. “It was awful,” said a gentleman who was present to the Plain Dealer reporter. “Yells and curses in German resounded on all sides. I never heard such an infernal din. The glasses on the bar flew over the room and were smashed. The bottles were broken over the heads of the combatants. Men picked up chairs, tables, anything they could get their hands on and banged away at each other’s heads. Here two men would be seen clinched together. There a man was knocked down and the rest tramped on him. Blood began to be sprinkled over everything and the floor to get slippery. The bar was broken down and all the bottles and dishes were turned into weapons. Pictures were crashed over the heads of the fighters. I saw one man with his coat torn to strings and wearing the rim of a looking glass around his neck. Men swore and raved and women screamed. I tell you it was a dreadful scene.” After fighting a while in the house the mob went out into the grounds and resumed the battle. Fences were torn down and the pickets used for weapons. Women participated in the fray and tore each other’s hair. Knives were used freely and several persons were severely cut. Several women were knocked down and trampled upon. One woman had her dress entirely torn from her body, while the clothing of many more was reduced to tatters. The green grass of the lawn was stained with blood. The fight lasted about twenty minutes and would have continued with probably fatal results to some of the combatants if a cry of “police” had not been raised. There were no police but the false alarm stopped the fight. When the police did get there all parties engaged in the riot had gone, taking their wounded with them. Nothing but the wreck and debris of the battlefield remained. So far as can be learned forty or fifty people were injured in the riot, some of them quite seriously. Some were cut by knives, some by beer glasses and dishes, some were pounded with clubs and some were knocked down and trampled upon. The wonder is that some were not killed.
JANUARY 18, 1884 – IN AND OUTDOORS SPORTS
A deer hunt occurred yesterday through the country near the eight mile lock on the Brecksville Road. The meet took place at nine o’clock at the Willow House, about three hundred men and one hundred boys and seventy-five dogs responding. The affair was not a startling success. The stag was advertised to be a wild one just from Michigan but when liberated it refused to run and evinced a desire to stay in the barn and eat hay. After several vain trials to put him to his heels he was placed in a wagon and hauled away half a mile and then let loose. He again made for the barn and on the way was seized by some anxious hunters and killed. A squabble then arose as to who owned the carcass and the medal offered as the prize. A drag race, the head being cut off the deer and dragged along the road to be followed by the hounds did not settle the matter either and the crowd finding no prize would be awarded went away disgusted.
JULY 19, 1884 - A VALLEY RAILWAY FREIGHT TRAIN WRECKED
At 11 o’clock yesterday as engine No. 17 on the Valley road was pushing a train of eight flat cars around a sharp curve at Willow Station, three miles south of Newburgh, the foremost car, out of sight of the engineer, struck cows that lay on the track. The whole train was derailed and thrown into the ditch. S.B. Brickman, the fireman, and William Rock, the engineer, escaped with a few bruises, but John Mahoney, the conductor, received injuries which it is feared will prove fatal. He jumped from a flat car at the time of the collision and was struck in the back by the side of one of the derailed cars. He was taken to the Standard Hotel on Broadway, where he received medical attendance. The train proved a total wreck.
JULY 7, 1889 – ASSAULTED A GIRL - ARTHUR CASTLE’S TERRIBLE CRIME WHILE TAKING A COMPANION HOME FROM A DANCE
On the evening of July 4, Arthur Castle, aged 19 years and living on Howard Street, took Victoria Axford, a girl of 14, to a dance at Cingsbury Hall on the Brecksville road near the Willow House. While returning from the dance about 2 a.m. Castle assaulted and outraged the girl and then ran away and left her. She made her way home to No. 2324 Broadway and told the story. Dr. Norton examined the girl and found her body injured. Castle was arrested last night and jailed at the seventh precinct.
FEBRUARY 1, 1893 – STAND AND DELIVER! - BOLD HIGHWAY ROBBERY ON BRECKSVILLE ROAD – GEORGE PECK AND DAUGHTER THE VICTIMS – THE RUFFIANS CAPTURED
A bold robbery of the old stage coach kind was committed on Brecksville road last night. Mr. George Peck and daughter of No. 97 Gaylord Street in a buggy were driving along the road in the rain about 8 o’clock. When near the Willow House, outside the city limits, two men were seen walking along the road in the same direction in which Mr. Peck was driving. As they showed no disposition to turn out, Miss Peck expressed the fear that they would be run down by the horse. The words were scarcely out of her mouth when the two men wheeled about and each, with a revolver in his hand, came toward the buggy. One grabbed the horse by the bit and pushed the frightened animal back upon its haunches. The other shoved his revolver into the face of Mr. Peck and demanded his money. All the money Mr. Peck had with him was $3 and some small change. This was handed over to the highwayman, who pocketed it with a gruff demand for more. Mr. Peck then bethought himself of his revolver, and drawing it from his pocket, attempted to use it, but, with his daughter clinging in terror to his arm, he was no match for his antagonist and it was wrested from his grasp. After satisfying themselves that no more money was to be had the highwaymen allowed them to go. Mr. Peck immediately drove to the seventh precinct station and reported the occurrence, at the same time giving a good description of the men. Sergeant Pierce and Patrolman Corrigan at once started in search of them, and had proceeded as far as Harvard Street, when the two men were seen skulking down the street. They were pursued, captured and taken to the station, where they gave the names of Charles and Frank Jones. Mr. Peck’s revolver and two other weapons were found on their persons, together with $11 and some small change. Later, Mr. Peck and daughter called at the station and positively identified the men as the ones who had held them up. Still later, Sergeant Pierce, fearing that the cells at the seventh precinct were not strong enough to hold the men, removed them to the central station.
OCTOBER 15, 1895 – VICIOUS ROAD THUGS - A COUPLE OF BRECKSVILLE ROWDIES PUNISHED FOR ASSAULT
Two more members of the notorious gang of Brecksville road thugs were fined in police court Tuesday by Judge Fiedler. W.F. Heck of No. 1478 Harvard Street with his wife and another lady were walking along the Brecksville Road near the Willow House when they encountered Albert Vasek of Lyford Street and Nichols Zahler of No. 117 South Willson Avenue who were in a wagon with five other men. Because Heck called his wife and her companion to one side of the road so they would not hear the vile language used by the men Zahler and Vanek got out of the wagon and assaulted him. Vanek was fined $5 and costs and Zahler $10 and costs.
JANUARY 23, 1904- DAMAGE BY FLOOD WILL REACH A HALF MILLION - THE OVERFLOW OF THE CUYAHOGA CAUSED BY A TWO DAYS’ RAIN, RESULTS IN AN IMMENSE PROPERTY LOSS - CURRENT DASHING THROUGH VALLEY TEARS GREAT BARGES FROM MOORINGS AND HURLS THEM DOWNSTREAM - TRACKS OF WHEELING & LAKE ERIE AND B&O UNDER WATER – VAST GORGE IS FORMED AT WILLOW - THE RIVER BEGAN TO RECEDE SLOWLY EARLY LAST EVENING AND GREATEST DANGER NOW SEEMS PAST
(SNIP)
The buildings of the Grasselli Chemical Co. on the east bank of the river, were all under water. In none of the buildings, however, had the water reached the machinery, so that the loss was not so great as it would otherwise have been. Further up the valley the works of the Cleveland Furnace Co. were submerged. The fires were extinguished except under the emergency pumps, which were working under three feet of water. In the vicinity of Jennings and Denison Avenues a number of plants, including the Fanner Mfg. Co., the Stadler Soap works, and the Adam Kroehle factory, were under water.
GREAT DAMAGE AT WILLOW STATION
At Willow Station, on eight-mile lock, the damage was great. The plant of the Newburg Reduction Co. was shut down early yesterday. The engine room was six feet under water. Many homes in the vicinity were flooded, and the loss to occupants, while small, will be very severe to them. Railroad service was stopped on the Wheeling & Lake Erie and the B&O. A small culvert on the Wheeling, between Jefferson Street and the bridge over the river near East Clark Avenue, was carried away, and with a section of about forty feet of track. The bridge of the Wheeling over the river was considered safe late last night. The B&O bridge near Jefferson Street was about three feet above the water. Men were on guard to place heavy trains of freight cars on the bridge at the first sign of danger.
February 16, 1908 - FLOODS RAGE IN MANY SECTIONS - RIVERS OVERFLOW BANKS AND DO MUCH DAMAGE TO PROPERTY - LOWLANDS ARE SUBMERGED AND TRACTION LINES ARE CRIPPLED
Floods caused by the excessive thaw made themselves felt in many sections about Cleveland yesterday, doing considerable damage and caused great inconvenience. The freezing over of many flooded sections last night promises to make the inundations all the more troublesome. All the creeks and rivers about Cleveland are on the rampage, overflowing their banks and flooding large sections of lowlands. In several districts railroad tracks have been covered. One strip of the Eastern Ohio Traction Co.’s track between Burton and Middlefield is six feet under water and it will be many days before service can be resumed. Reports from adjoining counties indicate similar conditions. The Cuyahoga River was running nine miles an hour yesterday morning and was several feet higher than normal. President Springborn of the board of public service, fearing contamination of the city’s water supply by the sudden flooding out into the lake near the waterworks intake of quantities of sewage, engaged a tug from the Great Lakes Towing Co. to break a channel out into the open water beyond the breakwater. The tug rammed through some big floes for about an hour and a half and finally succeeded in setting the water in motion. The mile a minute wind from the west soon drifted it eastward so that any contamination was avoided. While no damage was done within the city limits the Cuyahoga failed to behave itself so well out in the rural districts. Nearly every tributary overflowed its banks and flooded low territories. In the neighborhood of Chardon many sections were reported under water. At Willow Station, the Brecksville Road was under several feet of water and many farmers headed toward the Cleveland markets yesterday were forced to abandon their trips and return. The water was well over the hubs of their wagon wheels. The B&O tracks up the Cuyahoga valley are still under water and that section of the system out of service. The railroad’s frame station at Willow was yesterday put out of commission. Floods lifted it from its foundations and floated it fifty feet away. At Cleveland Heights many telephone and telegraph poles were blown down and the service crippled. Tinkers Creek at Bedford was lashed to a fury yesterday by the unusually large volume of water pouring in from all directions. The Belt Line’s temporary wooden bridge was undermined and a number of supports washed away. The bridge last night was in a tottering condition and it was feared that it could not last long. Desperate efforts are being made to save it. The blizzard of damp clinging snow which swooped down upon the city yesterday made things thoroughly disagreeable out of doors. Owing to the high winds, however, telephone and telegraph wires were not seriously affected by the snow as it was speedily blown away. Sweepers managed to keep street car service on fairly good schedule time. President Springborn was routed out of his bed at 4 o’clock yesterday morning by police when the Miles Ave. creek culvert between Gaylord Ave. and Platt Ave. burst and flooded the cellars of a number of houses in the vicinity. A pump was employed in getting water from the cellar of one house, where a man lay sick as the water interfered with the heating of the house. An overflowing sewer flooded the boiler room of the city garbage plant yesterday morning and put a stop to its operation for the entire day. Harbor Master Lynch, aboard the tug Frank W., patrolled the river much of the day looking for boats which might have been blown from their moorings or for other forms of trouble. When moving upstream against the nine-mile current the stanch little tug, though under high steam, seemed to be scarcely moving. Lynch said last evening that the city was fortunate in having freed the river ice on the day previous, or much damage might have resulted. Three and a half inches of snow fell yesterday. The highest temperature was at 4 o’clock in the morning, when the mercury registered 37 degrees. It fell steadily throughout the day to 26 degrees at 5 p.m. The wind blew at the rate of a mile a minute from the northwest and the snow came with it. Fair weather with occasional snow flurries is given by the weather bureau as the outlook for today’s weather.
JULY 8, 1909 – RAID SLOTS DEVICES AS REFORM MOVE - LIQUOR SUPPORTERS START CRUSADE AGAINST GAMBLING IN SALOONS OF COUNTY CONFISCATE NINE MACHINES AND SAY THEIR EFFORTS HAVE ONLY BEGUN
Making good the promise of the Personal Liberty League to reform the saloons of Cuyahoga County, an agent of the league has begun a wholesale crusade against the slot machines run by the proprietors of outlying inns. Nine machines have been confiscated already in four raids and the innkeepers in all cases were hauled before a justice of the peace. Officers of the Personal Liberty League declare that the raid has only started. Last night three saloons were visited by a constable armed with warrants. E.J. Browning, state agent of the Personal Liberty League, who has been taking out the warrants, began work here several weeks ago. Last Friday he swore to affidavits against a dozen saloonkeepers before Justice John G. Murphy and warrants were yesterday issued for the arrest of these persons. Most of the warrants were served by Constable Rufus McConnell of Justice Murphy’s court. The biggest haul of machines was made at Silverthorn’s place at Rocky River, where four machines were seized. William Schultz was taken into custody, but later released on his own recognizance to appear for trial next Tuesday. A similar fate met all of the others. William Zacharychz of Middleburg Township was another who got in the toils, but it is said that the agent of the company which operates most of the slot machines throughout the county succeeded in getting the contrivance away before the constable arrived. Others who were arrested were A. Zacharychz, A.L. Dunke, John Matusek and William Cleesatell, all of Middleburg Township, and Ezra Herbst of Parma. Constable McConnell and two assistants raided the Willow House, Newburg Heights. Three machines were found in the rear of the saloon. The proprietor and assistant were missing and no arrests were made. A policeman, the constables assert, was dispensing drinks behind the bar of the Willow House. When he saw the constable he left hastily, grabbing his uniform and helmet. Warrants have been sworn out in Justice Murphy’s court for the arrest of the proprietor of the Willow House. The machines will be confiscated today, the constables assert. It is expected that a number of warrants will be issued today for saloonkeepers who have refused to obey the dictates of the Personal Liberty League that they shall reform their businesses. The League decided upon definite action in this direction some weeks ago and so informed the state organization. Timothy McDonough, one of the national officers of the league, said last night that the present raids were doubtless the direct results of the county league’s action in asking the state league to get busy and punish those saloonkeepers who do not desire to obey the laws as they now exist. Mike Goldsmith, business agent of the bartenders’ union, said last night that the action was only in line with the policy of the league and that a determined effort is to be made to raise the plane of the saloon business. “Good, good, glad to hear it,” exclaimed Rev. John F. Rutledge of the Anti-Saloon league when told that the raids had taken place. “We are always glad to hear of any movement which has a tendency to uplift, no matter what the source. I hope they will keep it up, but I am afraid that it will do little good for the saloon in this country must certainly pass out of existence.”
MARCH 13, 1952 – PICNIC GROVE SALE TABLED
The Cuyahoga Heights Village Council tabled legislation authorizing the sale of Chapek’s picnic grove in the suburb. The grove proposition had been placed on first reading at the Council meeting two weeks ago. Purchased in 1945 by the village for $15,500, the 4.1 acre tract was to have been used for a veterans memorial park. This plan was discarded. The acreage is at 4646 E. 71st Street.
6-19-1940 Plain Dealer - TWO DIE SEEKING RELIEF FROM HEAT
Greater Cleveland counted two deaths in swimming accidents yesterday. One was a 13-year old boy in Cuyahoga Heights. Dorwned yesterday was James Zielinski, 6915 War Avenue, who a little more than a year ago had seen his brother, Eugene, 11, die after being pulled from a swimming pool in the Broadway YMCA. James and a brother, John, 15, and Simon Bandos, 11, also of 6915 War Avenue, left their home about 3 yesterday afternoon to go to a movie, but decided to go swimming instead. They went to what the neighborhood knows as Sunfish Pond, at the foot of Marceline Court in Cuyahoga Heights. About 5:30 p.m., John said, swimmers noticed that James was floating limply. Harry Skyzdleke, 11, of 6812 Rathburn Ave., pulled James ashore. Thomas Kosicki, 17, of 6819 Rathbun Ave., a former Boy Scout, began giving artificial respiration. Cuyahoga Heights firemen worked 20 minutes with an inhalator before taking the boy to St. Alexis Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Neither John Zielinski nor the Bandos boy could explain how James drowned. They said he was a good swimmer and might have been stunned by diving against an abandoned gasoline tank in the center of the pond.
SCRAPBOOK OF NEWSPAPER CLIPPINGS CONCERNING CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS COMPILED BY LENORE NICOLAI-SCHUSCHU
1951
Four year old Robert Shushu, junior, learned a hard lesson near his suburban Cuyahoga Heights home today – don’t bother insect
nests. The youngster was playing behind his home at 4526 East 49th Street when he knocked over a hornets’ nest. The angry insects stormed from their cozy hideaway and bit the child over most of his body. Attendants at Marymount Hospital – where his father took him for treatment – estimate that young Robert had about 200 hornet stings, even thorough his heavy blue jeans. The youngster was treated and released.
1951 HORNETS ATTACK ADVENTUROUS YOUTH IN CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS LAST SUNDAY
Bobby Schuschu, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Schuschu of 4526 E. 49 St., Cuyahoga Hts. Is an adventurous youngster at the age of four. Last Sunday, he was roving in a field near his home when a swarm of vicious hornets attacked him. They pierced his shirts and pants from head to foot and left him covered with some 200 welts. Physicians at Marymount Hospital administered an antitoxin and relieved some of the discomfort with soothing lotion after the child was hurried there for treatment by his father. While Robert was at the hospital the battle against the bared hornets was being carried on behind his home by the suburb’s police and firemen and Joseph Boza, 71, of 4130 E. 57th St., a watchman for the Canal Sand & Gravel Co. pits near the Schuschu home. Boza clipped the gray clay nest of the angered insects with a long handled shovel from the sumac tree clump where it hung and ran for the safety of his watchman’s cabin. One of the hornet rearguards halted him momentarily with an attack on his left arm, but met his death doing so. Spectators who watched police and firemen of the suburb as they sprayed the hornet hangout with kerosene, and squashed the nest grinned as they told how the uniformed men jumped and ran about the scene while they stubbornly fought to do their duty. The last of the battle weary air attackers was gone when Robert was returned home and placed in bed to await some lowering of the swellings on his body.
1953 - POLICEMAN WOUNDED, SUSPECT CAPTURED
Patrolman Franklin Hess of Cuyahoga heights was shot in the left arm early today when he and another policeman surprised two men prowling at the rear of the Hillside Tavern, 5015 E. 71st St. in the suburb. Despite the flesh wound, Patrolman Hess helped his partner, Patrolman August Crombine capture one of the men, a 28 year old West Sider once convicted of burglary. Hess was treated at St. Alexis Hospital. The gunman, who fired three shots as the policemen walked around the back of the tavern building, ran down an embankment of a gully beside the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad tracks and escaped. On probation in burglary the man held refused to talk when he was taken to the Cuyahoga Heights . . . to Police William Baur. Records show the suspect was placed on probation in 1949 for burglarizing a Denison Ave. grocery. Patrolman Hess and Crombine were cruising in the vicinity in the patrol car when they heard a dog barking at a home near the tavern. Deciding to check the tavern for a possible burglary attempt, they had just rounded the corner of the building when they were fired upon. The two men apparently were surprised before they could make an attempt to break into the place, Chief Baur said. A known associate of the man held was later arrested at his West Side home and is held for questioning. Cuyahoga Heights police also were holding a man picked up as he walked along a street several blocks from the tavern. Patrolman Hess, 51, lives at 7149 Bletch Ct. and has been a Cuyahoga Heights policeman 17 years.
1954
Mysterious stranger lurking in the shadows near the home of murdered Marilyn Sheppard was described yesterday by Leo Stawicki, 4511 E. 49th St., Cuyahoga Heights. Stawicki said the man had bushy hair like a crew cut grown in.
1954 - POOL PRICE SPLITS CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS
Apparently everyone in Cuyahoga Heights wants a swimming pool, but the question of price and site has divided this tax-rich suburb of 700 people into two hostile camps. At least, this is the conclusion reached by this reporter after interviewing Mayor William Gerdon, councilmen, School Board officials, pupils, and townspeople selected at random. Recently, Mayor Gerdon proposed that a $500,000 swimming pool bond issue be resubmitted to the people in November. A similar bond issue last year was defeated by a narrow margin. Gerdon’s recommendation is that the pool be enclosed for winter and summer use, that it be a six-lane pool, that it be built on property adjoining the village hall, and that it be of sufficient size to meet specifications for national swimming meets. Furthermore, he maintains it should be open to all the 682 pupils in the Cuyahoga Heights School District as well as residents. The school district consists of Cuyahoga Heights, Valley View and Brooklyn Hts. The firm of Fulton, Krinsky & Dela Motte have estimated the cost of such a pool to be $407,766. Cost of acquiring and landscaping the site as well as burnishing the building would bring the cost close t $500,000. When Gerdon was asked whether he thought that perhaps $500,000 was too much to spend for tiny Cuyahoga Heights, he said: “Fortunately, our town is blessed with a tax duplicate of approximately $85,000,000. We can afford the best. Why shouldn’t we have it? However, I am appointing a council committee to examine the proposition, meet with school officials and return with a recommendation.” Here is reaction of the councilmen, all of whom favored a pool:
Louis J. Bacci – Build it for less, if possible.
John J. Bohdan – I favor spending less money on it. Also it should be available to parents too.
Vincent Guidotti - $500,000 is a little too much to spend.
Stanley Klima - $250,000 is enough
Daniel J. Marek – Might as well spend the $500,000. Should build the best as long as we are going to have a pool.
William Randle – Could be built for less and it should be built on school property.
How Citizens react:
James O’Malley Jr., 4615 E. 49th St. – I favor the pool, but build it on village property, not on school property.
Giocondo Prozeni, 7210 Bletch Ct. – spend the $500,000. Let’s have the best.
Leo Umerley, 4912 E. 71st – spend the money. $500,000 is OK by me.
Lynne Miller, students, 4526 E. 49th – we need a pool for our sports program.
Jodie Hanousek – 4982 E. 71st – possibly could be built cheaper.
Olga Byrne, 4795 E. 71st – no preference on site. Build a good one. We don’t want a rattletrap pool.
1956 - BAUR NAME IS THE LAW IN SOUTHEAST SUBURBS
Law enforcement in Independence and Cuyahoga Heights I pretty much a family affair. Chief of Police in Independence is Allen Baur, 39. His uncle, William Baur, 61, is chief in neighboring Cuyahoga Heights. And a third Baur, William Jr. 28, is a patrolman in the latter suburb. Allen, who heads a six-man force, has been a police officer for 13 years and chief the past three. Before turning to law enforcement he was a bricklayer. He was in the Air Force in World War II, seeing action as a gunner on an A-20 bomber in Africa, Italy and Sicily. He lives with his wife, Helen, at 7322 Cherry St. Independence. Uncle William, who heads the 13-man Cuyahoga Heights police force, has been in police work for 26 years. He broke into the business on a dare, running for marshal in 1931. He was elected and kept getting elected from then until 1942, when he became police chief. His son William Jr. has been in uniform for two years. In the old days, William Sr. recalls, law enforcement in Cuyahoga Heights was a rugged business. He and one helper were the entire force, and each worked 12 hours a day, 365 days a year. Each was entitled to two weeks vacation a year, but somehow it never seemed to work out so either could take them, he said. If one took a day off, he added, the other had to put in 24 hours on duty to make up for it. William Sr. lives with his wife, Hanna, at 4913 E. 71st St., Cuyahoga Heights. They have a daughter, Mrs. Helen DeSantis, and five grandchildren.
ABOUT 1956 - CUYAHOGA HEIGHTS YOUTH SHOVES OFF FOR ANNAPOLIS
Seventeen year old Richard J. Wallace, Cuyahoga Heights youth of distinction, left for Annapolis today with a naval career as his goal. Wallace, who was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy by former Congressman George Bender, has the distinction of being the first youth in the village to be appointed to any of the service academies. Proud of this distinction, the prospective naval officer said he is not at sea as to his future. “I am going to make the Navy my career,” he said. There is no question in the minds of his equally proud parents that Richard will accomplish what he sets out to do. The father, Joseph, is a village patrolman. Richard has compiled an impressive scholastic and athletic record at Cuyahoga Heights High School. He was a B plus student and earned seven letters in football, basketball and track. He was vice president of his senior class, won an honorable mention in the Ohio State General Scholarship tests and had enrolled at Case Institute of Technology before receiving notice of his appointment. Richard holds the school record for the 100-yard dash – 10.4 seconds – and running broad jump, 21 feet, 1 5/8 inches. The family residence is at 4581 E. 49th St.