Brooklyn Centre National Wildlife Community

SRO For ReImagining Cleveland CSU Forum

Yesterday was an amazing day in Cleveland.  My guess would be that over 200 people gathered in the Roberta Steinbacher Atrium at CSU to hear Clevelanders and local experts share their stories of ReImagining Cleveland projects and the future of the program.  The evening started off with a few words from the new president and CEO of NPI, Inc. Joel Ratner. To me, it is comforting to know that Joel is leading the group of dedicated people at NPI. Joel continues his avid support of grassroots activities which he fostered in his role as Neighborhood Connections executive Director.  Next up, was Daryl Rush, Director of Community Development for the City of Cleveland.  It was good to hear his thoughts and comments on the quality of the projects, his praise the community leaders committed to improving their communities of choice and his ideas on how these kinds of projects will be funded to continue this very important mission to enhance the assets of our community.

These men were followed by some of the recipients of grants who related their experiences during the implementation of their projects. Justin Husher of Old Husher Farm related how the grant he received helped him make a life long dream of being a farmer come true. Now, if he can achieve some of the things he needs to make his dream a success—more than a lease of the land he farms and a west Side Market Co-Op his goal will be complete. Darren and Johanna Hamm of our own Brooklyn Centre Community Orchard project gave a great “tag team” presentation of how a group of dedicated volunteers transformed neglected, vandalized vacant lots into a beautiful orchard on a ridge overlooking Brookside Valley,complete  sitting benches, a winding path and a white picket fence.  Mansfield Frazier of Chateau Hough related how the vineyard created by his vision and the dedicated efforts of volunteers will grow into a viable source of business opportunities, jobs, and pride for his neighborhood.  Their were others but these three hit a chord with me and the members of their audience.  The spontaneous applause when The Hamms posted the slide of the orchard’s arbor said it all.

Brooklyn Centre Naturalists were truly honored to be part of this celebration of all we Clevelanders did in 2010 to make our city great!   

Porcelain Berry SNAP! along the Banks of Big Creek

I attended the Friends of Big Creek Steering Committee meeting last night as their guest. Brooklyn Centre Naturalists is teaming with FOBC and the Northeast Watershed Councils for the second annual mini-symposium focusing on how individuals can positively impact our watersheds.  This year’s evening event will take place on March 22, 2011 at the Reinberger Auditorium located in Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.  We finalized topics, suggested speakers, and chose our theme.  Stay tuned for details very soon.   Save the date!

While there, the following invasive plant pull was discussed.  Sounds like a fun time for a day when the temps are supposed to rise above freezing.  Be sure to RSVP.  

 

Greetings Hearty Winter Souls!

When, Where, How:
Sunday, February 13, 2011 from 12-2pm
Meet at the Brookside Valley Event Site located on John Nagy Boulevard, off the Ridge Road entrance of Brookside Reservation, Cleveland. 
(Restrooms will be open at the ball diamond concession stands only.)
Please remember to DRESS FOR WINTER WEATHER.   Bring your SWEETIE and enjoy hot chili, hot dogs, & hot chocolate compliments of  FRIENDS OF BIG CREEK.   See you there!
For more information on Friends of Big Creek activities:
http://www.friendsofbigcreek.org/news.htm
RSVP TO:
Gayle Albers Conservation Coordinator
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
3900 Wildlife Way Cleveland, OH  44109
216.635.2526
gla@clevelandmetroparks.com