The Observer, December 9, 2005
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 13
Cleveland on Fire: New Year's resolutions for Cleveland this year
It's that time again – the end of the calendar year calls for reflection and goal-setting: a chance to let loose hidden ambitions and cut the ties with obstacles. Cleveland could use some extra support and wishing, so this citizen will do just that. Welcome to my New Year's Resolutions for Northeast Ohio with a special rendition of "The Twelve Days of a Cleveland Christmas."
As any great Cleveland citizen rightfully knows, there is nothing wrong with making the same resolution every year. If it's not fixed yet, just keep trying (just ask the Euclid Corridor Project: twenty-five years in the making)! In light of that, I feel that Northeast Ohio needs to strive for classic and elementary goals: lose weight, remain positive, reconnect with the inner-self, and cooperate with others.
Lose Weight and Healthier Dieting
Cleveland is perpetually bogged down by dead weight which can be seen through abandoned property, negative images, and endless ineptitude. I would love to see some turnover and redevelopment of these eyesores: the Flats' East Bank is just a start to recovering potentially prosperous property. The other half of this resolution lies in the investment of green space. The Cleveland Metroparks are the greatest city park system in the country, so they deserve more land and funding to help out the poor Cleveland parks (Edgewater, Whiskey Island, Towpath Trail).
Have a Positive Attitude
Simply put: love your city. Not necessarily following the "Believe in Cleveland" action started by The Plain Dealer (although there is nothing wrong with it), Northeast Ohio needs to take pride in what makes this area a special home to so many. Defend the city's low housing costs, great parks, world-class organizations, and unique niches. Smile and make the fellow Clevelander stuck on I-480 next to you feel better.
Reconnecting with the Inner-self
Endless exploration opportunities lie waiting for anyone in Northeast Ohio with an open mind. Make it a point to rediscover the city – a walk through the park, a neighborhood redevelopment, or locally owned storefronts. Underneath that old tablecloth is a fresh and unique treasure.
Cooperate with Others
As children we are taught to work well with others, and that is a lesson Northeast Ohio is just beginning to learn. The efforts come a bit late, but better late than never. regionalism is vital to the success of the area. Unless institutions, cities, and cultures work together, this area does not have a great future. The success of the whole must be more important than the success of individuals. Mayor-elect Jackson has great interest in regionalism: one can only hope for receptive ears and open-minded planning.
In 1980, the Cleveland Browns were riding high on the laurels of the Kardiac Kids; there was such great love for this team that a parody was created entitled "The Twelve Days of a Cleveland Browns Christmas." Twenty-five years later I offer my own version of the song, so when you are caroling this winter, add this verse in to see if your audience is paying attention.Starting with the last verse, follow the traditional tune:
"On the 12th day of Christmas, my
city gave to me:
Browns Drafts Picks Healthy,
University Circle Housing,
School Levy Passing,
Towpath Trail Completed,
Innerbelt Revisioned,
Regionalism Issues,
Stable Employment Levels,
Red – Light – Cameras – Gone,
Port Authority Moved,
Burke Lakefront Closed,
Downtown Streets Cleaned Up,
And a Romeo (1980 – Rutigliano)
Super Bowl Team!"
