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Recent CWRU mechanical engineering graduates Austin Schmidt and Solomon Alkhasov won the 2011 Idea Competition, sponsored by LaunchHouse and CSU's Accelerated MBA program at Nance College of Business. They created a company called Affinity Algorithms, which develops proprietary computer arbitrage software to facilitate transactions between buyers and sellers in various online marketplaces. The software provides greater liquidity and price transparency in the marketplaces.
"We are developing a suite of online software that helps the seller in fragmented marketplaces better manage inventory," explains Schmidt. Although Schmidt and Alkhasov came up with the idea from their experiences buying and selling textbooks in college, they say it can be applied to many online marketplaces.
The idea for Affinity Algorithms came about in January, they set up shop in March, and landed at LaunchHouse this month. They plan to roll out a full build of the software in September.
Students from all Northeast Ohio colleges and universities were invited to pitch a business concept to a panel of entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, CSU faculty and LaunchHouse staff. The contest primarily focused on students who had innovative ideas in the fields of software and internet technology, low-tech medical devices and clean energy.
The second winner is Ronny Shalev, also a student at Case. Shalev created a product known as an autonomous intravenous (IV) insertion tool that will be the most effective replacement for the current procedure of manual vein localization and needle insertion. Shalev's tool will completely replace the need for trained medical staff.
Contest winners were each awarded a $2,500 scholarship to the Global AMBA program along with a prize basket of support services from LaunchHouse, "Additionally, we received a $500 check from LaunchHouse, along with a bunch of services that include legal services, accounting, and free space for three months," says Schmidt. "All in all, a very comprehensive package with everything needed to get a business off the ground."
The winners will also have the opportunity to compete for up to $5000 in follow on funding.
Source: Austin Schmidt
Writer: Karin Connelly
The PNC SmartHome is complete at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and open to visitors who want to learn how to make environmentally-friendly improvements to their own properties. The 2,500-square-foot three-bedroom house uses 90 percent less energy than a traditional home, and it uses no furnace for heating and cooling. The walls are a foot thick and packed with insulation, while the windows are triple-pane glass -- both of which reduce heat loss. The home is heated and cooled with small heat pumps.
"The museum wanted to help people understand how they can dramatically reduce energy consumption," says David Beach, director of the GreenCityBlueLake Institute at CMNH. "We think the SmartHome will be the first home to receive passive home certification in Northeast Ohio."
Other features include hardwood floors made from 100-year-old reclaimed wood and artwork with environmental themes created by local artists. The landscaping features storm water management techniques to keep rain water on-site instead of in storm sewers.
So far, the home has been well-received. "People walk in it and go, 'wow,'" says Beach. "What they are reacting to immediately is what a beautiful home it is. Then they see they can learn things [to do] for their own homes."
The house will be moved to an empty lot on Wade Park Boulevard this fall and will go on the market soon. Beach says they've already received inquiries about purchasing the house.
Tours run Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $5 with museum admission, $3 for those who can't go upstairs. Children 2 and under are free.
Source: David BeachWriter: Karin Connelly
Ramen noodles may have been the late-night snack that powered you through finals in college, but they've come a long way since you left the dorms.
From Portland to New York's East Village, contemporary noodle houses have been springing up with abandon in recent years, offering tasty, affordable dishes that fuse Japanese and American ingredients.
Now award-winning chef Jonathon Sawyer, owner of Greenhouse Tavern, is opening Noodlecat, a modern noodle house in downtown Cleveland. The 83-seat restaurant, located around the corner from East Fourth Street on Euclid, will offer traditional and modern Japanese noodle dishes from $10 to $14.
Much like the Greenhouse Tavern, Sawyer plans to use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, with the vegetarian-based noodles made by Cleveland-based Ohio City Pasta. Sawyer is also angling for Noodlecat to become the second certified green restaurant in Ohio (the first being Greenhouse). The Green Restaurant Association certifies establishments 'green' based on such criteria as water efficiency, waste reduction, energy use and sustainable food offerings.
Inspired by the creativity of other noodle houses, Sawyer even sent staffers to train at New York's famed Momofuku Noodle Bar in the East Village.
Diners can grab a sneak peek of Noodlecat during the Brick & Mortar restaurant pop-ups taking place June 21 through 24. Chef Chris Hodgson of the popular food truck Dim and Den Sum, and national food celebrity Lee Anne Wong will be the featured chefs. The restaurant pop-up concept has gained popularity recently as an affordable way for chefs to test new concepts.
Noodlecat, which is located at 240 Euclid Avenue, will hold its grand opening party on July 11th.
Source: Noodlecat
Writer: Lee Chilcote
From Portland to New York's East Village, contemporary noodle houses have been springing up with abandon in recent years, offering tasty, affordable dishes that fuse Japanese and American ingredients.
Now award-winning chef Jonathon Sawyer, owner of Greenhouse Tavern, is opening Noodlecat, a modern noodle house in downtown Cleveland. The 83-seat restaurant, located around the corner from East Fourth Street on Euclid, will offer traditional and modern Japanese noodle dishes from $10 to $14.
Much like the Greenhouse Tavern, Sawyer plans to use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, with the vegetarian-based noodles made by Cleveland-based Ohio City Pasta. Sawyer is also angling for Noodlecat to become the second certified green restaurant in Ohio (the first being Greenhouse). The Green Restaurant Association certifies establishments 'green' based on such criteria as water efficiency, waste reduction, energy use and sustainable food offerings.
Inspired by the creativity of other noodle houses, Sawyer even sent staffers to train at New York's famed Momofuku Noodle Bar in the East Village.
Diners can grab a sneak peek of Noodlecat during the Brick & Mortar restaurant pop-ups taking place June 21 through 24. Chef Chris Hodgson of the popular food truck Dim and Den Sum, and national food celebrity Lee Anne Wong will be the featured chefs. The restaurant pop-up concept has gained popularity recently as an affordable way for chefs to test new concepts.
Noodlecat, which is located at 240 Euclid Avenue, will hold its grand opening party on July 11th.
Source: Noodlecat
Writer: Lee Chilcote
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum has secured Cleveland's place in rock history, yet many of the legendary performances enshrined there would be lost forever without the artful eye of music photographers.
Now a new exhibition, entitled "Visual Music: Northeast Ohio Photographers Look at Rock and Roll," celebrates these unsung historians of the music scene. It opens with a reception on Saturday, June 11th at the Waterloo Road Gallery and runs through Saturday, June 25th, when it wraps up with an all-day open house during the Waterloo Arts Festival.
The first-of-its-kind show includes work by George Shuba, a photographer who captured the Beatles and the Rolling Stones when they played here in the 1960s; Bob Ferrell, Stephanie Saniga and Anastasia Pantsios, who shot local stages in the 1970s when Cleveland was considered a "breakout" market for many major artists; Karen Novak, who dodged stage divers and braved sweaty mosh pits to capture the underground shows of the Euclid Tavern in the 1990s; and Bryon Miller, who has shot many of the most creative bands playing today.
"Visual Music," which was curated by longtime music photographer and journalist Anastasia Pantsios, includes work by a dozen photographers. In a press release, Pantsios expounded on the breadth of this unprecedented exhibit.
"All of these artists have created distinctive bodies of work, many of which have never been exhibited in a gallery setting," she said. "With over 200 prints, this is the largest survey of local music photography ever seen."
Source: Anastasia Pantsios
Writer: Lee Chilcote
Now a new exhibition, entitled "Visual Music: Northeast Ohio Photographers Look at Rock and Roll," celebrates these unsung historians of the music scene. It opens with a reception on Saturday, June 11th at the Waterloo Road Gallery and runs through Saturday, June 25th, when it wraps up with an all-day open house during the Waterloo Arts Festival.
The first-of-its-kind show includes work by George Shuba, a photographer who captured the Beatles and the Rolling Stones when they played here in the 1960s; Bob Ferrell, Stephanie Saniga and Anastasia Pantsios, who shot local stages in the 1970s when Cleveland was considered a "breakout" market for many major artists; Karen Novak, who dodged stage divers and braved sweaty mosh pits to capture the underground shows of the Euclid Tavern in the 1990s; and Bryon Miller, who has shot many of the most creative bands playing today.
"Visual Music," which was curated by longtime music photographer and journalist Anastasia Pantsios, includes work by a dozen photographers. In a press release, Pantsios expounded on the breadth of this unprecedented exhibit.
"All of these artists have created distinctive bodies of work, many of which have never been exhibited in a gallery setting," she said. "With over 200 prints, this is the largest survey of local music photography ever seen."
Source: Anastasia Pantsios
Writer: Lee Chilcote
Progressive Insurance in Mayfield Village plans to hire 125 customer service representatives in its Cleveland call center by the end of June. The company is the fourth largest auto insurer in the nation and aims to be the largest, according to spokesperson Brittany Senary.
"We're recruiting because the number of policyholders we have continues to grow," says Senary. "In fact, our auto policies are up six percent year over year right now and our special-lines policies are up five percent year over year. And we do want to be the top insurer in the country."
Progressive experienced a growth spurt last September when the company hired 260 customer service reps in its Cleveland and Mentor call centers.
"While there's not one specific thing I can point to as the reason for the growth, we do believe that drivers choose us because we make it easy to understand, buy, and use auto insurance," says Senary. "We have about 8,600 employees in Northeast Ohio and room for more."
Potential employees need to have a proven track record. "We are looking for a minimum of two years post-secondary education or two years work experience in a customer service environment, along with proven job stability of at least one year with a past employer," says Senary. "And we are looking for people who are enthusiastic about helping people with their insurance needs."
The company offers $12 to $15 an hour plus medical, dental, vision and life insurance in addition to perks such as tuition reimbursement, casual dress and on-site health and fitness services.
Source: Brittany Senary
Writer: Karen Connelly
"We're recruiting because the number of policyholders we have continues to grow," says Senary. "In fact, our auto policies are up six percent year over year right now and our special-lines policies are up five percent year over year. And we do want to be the top insurer in the country."
Progressive experienced a growth spurt last September when the company hired 260 customer service reps in its Cleveland and Mentor call centers.
"While there's not one specific thing I can point to as the reason for the growth, we do believe that drivers choose us because we make it easy to understand, buy, and use auto insurance," says Senary. "We have about 8,600 employees in Northeast Ohio and room for more."
Potential employees need to have a proven track record. "We are looking for a minimum of two years post-secondary education or two years work experience in a customer service environment, along with proven job stability of at least one year with a past employer," says Senary. "And we are looking for people who are enthusiastic about helping people with their insurance needs."
The company offers $12 to $15 an hour plus medical, dental, vision and life insurance in addition to perks such as tuition reimbursement, casual dress and on-site health and fitness services.
Source: Brittany Senary
Writer: Karen Connelly
The apartment buildings that line East Boulevard in Glenville boast stunning architectural details such as ornate columns, artisan brickwork and broad balconies that overlook Rockefeller Park. They attest to the wealth that once existed on this grand old street.
Yet for decades, East Boulevard has deteriorated as owners struggled with a soft market, much-needed repairs and soaring energy costs. Despite its proximity to University Circle and Rockefeller Park, the area was long considered "dicey."
Now two apartment buildings have been purchased and renovated by the Famicos Foundation, a nonprofit that serves the Glenville and Hough neighborhoods by developing affordable and market-rate housing. The group has renovated 1341 East Boulevard into six apartments, each with three bedrooms and two baths. All six suites have been pre-leased, with the first tenants taking possession in July.
Although the building's exterior has been carefully preserved -- the massive columns holding up the porches were rebuilt to match the crumbling originals -- much of the interior is new. The developer installed new heating, plumbing and electrical systems, replaced the old kitchens with fresh contemporary ones, added amenities like in-suite laundry, and upped storage space.
Also, many of the exquisite original details have been refurbished -- including oak hardwood floors, leaded-glass windows, fireplaces (many suites have two) and natural woodwork.
David Fagerhaug, Senior Project Manager with the Famicos Foundation and a resident of East Boulevard, says that the 2,000-square-foot apartments lease for $825 per month. Although he'd like to get higher rents, he says it's a good sign that the tenants are frequently professionals and University Circle employees.
The renovation of 1341 East Boulevard was made possible using federal historic tax credits, a $600,000 grant from the City of Cleveland's Housing Trust Fund and $188,000 in federal stimulus funding. Fagerhaug says that he'd like to see more buildings renovated along the street, and to see rents increase so that public subsidy is not needed to justify renovation costs.
The project was also aided by a low interest rate loan from Dollar Bank in partnership with Cleveland Action to Support Housing (CASH), a nonprofit whose mission is to spur neighborhood revitalization through home repair lending.
Source: David Fagerhaug
Writer: Lee Chilcote
Yet for decades, East Boulevard has deteriorated as owners struggled with a soft market, much-needed repairs and soaring energy costs. Despite its proximity to University Circle and Rockefeller Park, the area was long considered "dicey."
Now two apartment buildings have been purchased and renovated by the Famicos Foundation, a nonprofit that serves the Glenville and Hough neighborhoods by developing affordable and market-rate housing. The group has renovated 1341 East Boulevard into six apartments, each with three bedrooms and two baths. All six suites have been pre-leased, with the first tenants taking possession in July.
Although the building's exterior has been carefully preserved -- the massive columns holding up the porches were rebuilt to match the crumbling originals -- much of the interior is new. The developer installed new heating, plumbing and electrical systems, replaced the old kitchens with fresh contemporary ones, added amenities like in-suite laundry, and upped storage space.
Also, many of the exquisite original details have been refurbished -- including oak hardwood floors, leaded-glass windows, fireplaces (many suites have two) and natural woodwork.
David Fagerhaug, Senior Project Manager with the Famicos Foundation and a resident of East Boulevard, says that the 2,000-square-foot apartments lease for $825 per month. Although he'd like to get higher rents, he says it's a good sign that the tenants are frequently professionals and University Circle employees.
The renovation of 1341 East Boulevard was made possible using federal historic tax credits, a $600,000 grant from the City of Cleveland's Housing Trust Fund and $188,000 in federal stimulus funding. Fagerhaug says that he'd like to see more buildings renovated along the street, and to see rents increase so that public subsidy is not needed to justify renovation costs.
The project was also aided by a low interest rate loan from Dollar Bank in partnership with Cleveland Action to Support Housing (CASH), a nonprofit whose mission is to spur neighborhood revitalization through home repair lending.
Source: David Fagerhaug
Writer: Lee Chilcote
Within3 has created a way for health professionals to communicate and consult with each other, no matter where they are or with whom they are affiliated. The Cleveland-based company builds online communities for health systems, medical associations, research institutions and health professionals. Within these communities, members can access advice and research that was previously unavailable. These communities provide networking opportunities with other health professions, information on HIPPA and compliance regulations and access to information on best practices within the industry.
"Our underlying vision is to completely change healthcare, to allow health care providers to connect and collaborate in real time," says Anthony Broad-Crawford, senior vice president and CTO. "Think of us as a highly specialized Facebook group."
Founded in 2004, Within3 developed their communities around extensive research on how medical professionals communicate best. Their clients include the top seven pharmaceutical companies and three of the top medical associations in the country. "All of our patents and studies are around how physicians make decisions and interact," says Broad-Crawford. "Our platform has brought them together in a way that historically has never been done before."
Within3 has experienced tremendous growth since its founding. "We've gone from three people in a room to 55 total spread around the country in four years," says Broad-Crawford. The company just hired a CFO and senior VP of strategic client development, and is looking to fill a host of other positions. "I personally am hiring 12 people," he adds.
Broad-Crawford finds Cleveland the perfect place to run a technology business.
"What really excites me about Cleveland is how much talent is actually here and how close-knit that talent actually is," he says. "You always hear 'Why Cleveland?' We always say, 'Why not Cleveland?' We're very thankful we've had the success we've had. It's not just a thrill, it's fantastic. "
Source: Anthony Broad-Crawford
Writer: Karen Connelly
"Our underlying vision is to completely change healthcare, to allow health care providers to connect and collaborate in real time," says Anthony Broad-Crawford, senior vice president and CTO. "Think of us as a highly specialized Facebook group."
Founded in 2004, Within3 developed their communities around extensive research on how medical professionals communicate best. Their clients include the top seven pharmaceutical companies and three of the top medical associations in the country. "All of our patents and studies are around how physicians make decisions and interact," says Broad-Crawford. "Our platform has brought them together in a way that historically has never been done before."
Within3 has experienced tremendous growth since its founding. "We've gone from three people in a room to 55 total spread around the country in four years," says Broad-Crawford. The company just hired a CFO and senior VP of strategic client development, and is looking to fill a host of other positions. "I personally am hiring 12 people," he adds.
Broad-Crawford finds Cleveland the perfect place to run a technology business.
"What really excites me about Cleveland is how much talent is actually here and how close-knit that talent actually is," he says. "You always hear 'Why Cleveland?' We always say, 'Why not Cleveland?' We're very thankful we've had the success we've had. It's not just a thrill, it's fantastic. "
Source: Anthony Broad-Crawford
Writer: Karen Connelly
The 22nd Parade the Circle takes place this Saturday, June 11, on and around Wade Oval in University Circle. The always stimulating Parade kicks off at noon and features wildly colorful floats, puppets, costumes, dancers and musicians. Other events in the area will feature music, food and art. As a longtime fan of the event, Fresh Water photographer Bob Perkoski fashioned a slideshow of past parades.
More than 750 people turned out at the new home of Shaker LaunchHouse last week to welcome the business incubator and celebrate entrepreneurial business in the region.
Speakers included Senator Sherrod Brown, Shaker Heights Mayor Earl Leiken, author and entrepreneur Ratanjit Sondhe, Benoy Joseph and Dick Pogue. Brown is the author of the Business Incubator Promotion Act and has spearheaded efforts to reduce brain drain in Ohio. Sondhe, founder of Poly-Carb in Solon, spoke about the importance of entrepreneurial communities. He mentioned that he wished LaunchHouse was around when he was starting out.
Pogue announced that the first corporate gift from the Shaker Heights Development Corporation for the economic development work at Shaker LaunchHouse is $25,000 from New York Community Bank.
Thirty-five companies exhibited in the 23,000-square-foot renovated car dealership, including LaunchHouse's 12 portfolio companies as well as area entrepreneurs educating visitors on their endeavors. Companies included everything from Wow! Cookies!, a gourmet cookie delivery company, to Sunflower Solutions, which develops and manufactures renewable energy products.
"The huge turnout for this event goes to show that this region is ready to support entrepreneurial efforts," said Todd Goldstein, co-founder of LaunchHouse. "I saw a lot of introductions take place that night so the networking alone is going to produce some real opportunities going forward."
Guests were treated to a buffet of hors d'oevres during the event, and the Umami Moto food truck was also on site. SLH plans to host regular entrepreneurial events in addition to weekly educational meetings.
Source: Todd Goldstein
Writer: Karen Connelly
With the goal of creating a 20-megawatt wind energy pilot project seven miles offshore from downtown Cleveland, LEEDCo is well on its way to unveiling the first freshwater wind farm in North America. If all goes as planned, this project will lead to additional turbines generating 1,000 MWs of wind energy by 2020. Writer Patrick Mahoney had an opportunity to "shoot the breeze" with LEEDCo president Dr. Lorry Wagner, the driving force behind the project.
discover gordon square arts district (and then parade the circle)
This Saturday, June 11, the Detroit Shoreway neighborhood will be rolling out the carpet to visitors when it hosts Discover Gordon Square Arts District Day.
Taking place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Detroit Avenue between W. 54th and W. 69th streets, the family-friendly event will include live music, classic cartoons in the Capitol Theatre, performances by CPT and Near West, local food, beer and fun.
Also taking place in the neighborhood that day:
Collective Upcycle, a "pop-up" boutique offering handmade goods from 30 reuse artists, will open at the Near West Loftworks building (6710 Detroit). The temporary shop will be open every day but Mondays through Sunday, July 3.
The Urban Sustainability Village at Gordon Square, a workshop for Sustainable Cleveland 2019.
Local art and music from KSU Arch Digital Operations Lab led by Professor Jason Turnidge. Taking place at Grand Avenue Properties at W. 74th Street and Detroit
For folks who plan on attending Parade the Circle, there will be numerous trolleys making the round trip to and from University Circle throughout the day.
Taking place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Detroit Avenue between W. 54th and W. 69th streets, the family-friendly event will include live music, classic cartoons in the Capitol Theatre, performances by CPT and Near West, local food, beer and fun.
Also taking place in the neighborhood that day:
Collective Upcycle, a "pop-up" boutique offering handmade goods from 30 reuse artists, will open at the Near West Loftworks building (6710 Detroit). The temporary shop will be open every day but Mondays through Sunday, July 3.
The Urban Sustainability Village at Gordon Square, a workshop for Sustainable Cleveland 2019.
Local art and music from KSU Arch Digital Operations Lab led by Professor Jason Turnidge. Taking place at Grand Avenue Properties at W. 74th Street and Detroit
For folks who plan on attending Parade the Circle, there will be numerous trolleys making the round trip to and from University Circle throughout the day.
Since Veronica Walton created an urban farm on Ansel Road several years ago, she's been asked countless times about her lush, bountiful plots: "I'm looking for a job," some would say. "Can I work here?"
When asked such questions, Walton, who is the Director of the nonprofit NEO Restoration Alliance, would extol the virtues of urban farming. She explained the difference between community gardens and urban farmers, who sell their crops to customers via local farmers markets. Yet until recently, she's been unable to point to a truly local example where small-scale farmers could sell their harvest.
That's about to change. This summer, Gateway105 Farmers Market will launch at the intersection of East 105th and Ashbury streets. The market will provide the Glenville, Hough and University Circle neighborhoods with fresh, locally grown food. It will also feature work by local artists, complementary family activities, musical performances and free health screenings from local institutions.
Organizers of the market, which kicks off on Friday, July 1st and runs every Friday through October, hope to reach local residents and University Circle employees who shop for groceries before heading home from work.
The farmers market was organized by NEO Restoration Alliance and the Famicos Foundation, a nonprofit community development organization that serves the Glenville and Hough neighborhoods and develops affordable and market-rate housing.
"This is about building a community of individuals that learn to develop entrepreneurial skills, while providing a service to the community at the same time," says Walton.
Source: Veronica Walton
Writer: Lee Chilcote
When asked such questions, Walton, who is the Director of the nonprofit NEO Restoration Alliance, would extol the virtues of urban farming. She explained the difference between community gardens and urban farmers, who sell their crops to customers via local farmers markets. Yet until recently, she's been unable to point to a truly local example where small-scale farmers could sell their harvest.
That's about to change. This summer, Gateway105 Farmers Market will launch at the intersection of East 105th and Ashbury streets. The market will provide the Glenville, Hough and University Circle neighborhoods with fresh, locally grown food. It will also feature work by local artists, complementary family activities, musical performances and free health screenings from local institutions.
Organizers of the market, which kicks off on Friday, July 1st and runs every Friday through October, hope to reach local residents and University Circle employees who shop for groceries before heading home from work.
The farmers market was organized by NEO Restoration Alliance and the Famicos Foundation, a nonprofit community development organization that serves the Glenville and Hough neighborhoods and develops affordable and market-rate housing.
"This is about building a community of individuals that learn to develop entrepreneurial skills, while providing a service to the community at the same time," says Walton.
Source: Veronica Walton
Writer: Lee Chilcote
By enrolling their employees in corporate wellness programs, companies are finding they can keep healthcare costs down, increase employee productivity, and reduce absenteeism, all by managing -- and in some cases reversing -- chronic illnesses. It's what folks like to call a win-win situation.
pittsburgh leaders want to adopt neo's efficient-gov-now approach
In this Pittsburgh Business News post, eight recent graduates of Leadership Pittsburgh take on the topic of taxing gas revenues from the Marcellus Shale gas drilling.
Not only do they and those they polled overwhelmingly agree that the state should be compensated for the gas being harvested from it, they recommended that Pennsylvania adopt a model now used in Northeast Ohio called EfficientGovNow.
EfficientGovNow is a program that promotes government efficiency through regionalism, which in turn fuels economic development. EGN accelerates government efficiency by providing funds for collaboration projects that residents of Northeast Ohio select through voting.
"We recommend that there should be a tax or fee on Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Drilling and that a portion of the revenue should be used to incentivize local government collaboration that would create greater government efficiency. We suggest that a 'Pennsylvania Municipal Incentive Program,' modeled after northeast Ohio's EfficientGovNow (EGN), should be developed as an approach to drive a culture of collaboration and bipartisan problem solving to local government that could further leverage other investments from both the public and private sectors, long term."
Read the rest of the article here.
Not only do they and those they polled overwhelmingly agree that the state should be compensated for the gas being harvested from it, they recommended that Pennsylvania adopt a model now used in Northeast Ohio called EfficientGovNow.
EfficientGovNow is a program that promotes government efficiency through regionalism, which in turn fuels economic development. EGN accelerates government efficiency by providing funds for collaboration projects that residents of Northeast Ohio select through voting.
"We recommend that there should be a tax or fee on Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Drilling and that a portion of the revenue should be used to incentivize local government collaboration that would create greater government efficiency. We suggest that a 'Pennsylvania Municipal Incentive Program,' modeled after northeast Ohio's EfficientGovNow (EGN), should be developed as an approach to drive a culture of collaboration and bipartisan problem solving to local government that could further leverage other investments from both the public and private sectors, long term."
Read the rest of the article here.
clusters like neo's 'eds and meds' hold key to economic future, says usa today
In an article titled "To get jobs, areas develop industry hubs in emerging fields," USA Today writer Paul Davidson singles out Northeast Ohio as a region combating the loss of traditional factory jobs by developing industry clusters.
Clusters are groupings of manufacturers, suppliers, training programs and researchers.
"Cluster theory holds that manufacturers and suppliers often want to be in proximity to collaborate on product design. Companies want to be near universities to benefit from the latest innovations. And bigger clusters attract still more companies that seek access to a large pool of skilled workers."
Supported by Ohio's Third Frontier and other initiatives, Northeast Ohio's hub of medical, pharmaceutical and bioscience continues to flourish. Since 2001, the number of biomedical firms has more than doubled to 600, and VC investments have increased to $150 million a year compared to just $30 million.
Now on its way, the $465 million Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center will be the world's first marketplace for medical industry buyers and sellers.
Read the whole report here.
Clusters are groupings of manufacturers, suppliers, training programs and researchers.
"Cluster theory holds that manufacturers and suppliers often want to be in proximity to collaborate on product design. Companies want to be near universities to benefit from the latest innovations. And bigger clusters attract still more companies that seek access to a large pool of skilled workers."
Supported by Ohio's Third Frontier and other initiatives, Northeast Ohio's hub of medical, pharmaceutical and bioscience continues to flourish. Since 2001, the number of biomedical firms has more than doubled to 600, and VC investments have increased to $150 million a year compared to just $30 million.
Now on its way, the $465 million Cleveland Medical Mart & Convention Center will be the world's first marketplace for medical industry buyers and sellers.
Read the whole report here.
Joel Borwick has owned Seitz-Agin Hardware in Cleveland Heights for 38 of the store's 56 years. To loyal customers, he and his staff are well-known for dispensing home repair tips, doling out contractor referrals, and selling only what shoppers need.
The store has proudly survived the onslaught of big box stores. When Home Depot and Wal-Mart opened at nearby Severance, Seitz-Agin trundled on, propelled by a loyal fan base and friendly personal service. Years of customer appreciation awards and press clippings from local publications adorn the walls.
Now, after decades as a fixture on Lee Road, Seitz-Again will close its doors for good on June 18th. Borwick has inked a deal to sell the building to Heights merchant Bill Mitchell, who owns Mitchell's Fine Chocolates just down the block.
In the end, it wasn't the big box stores that did the shop in, explains Borwick. Ultimately, it was the economic downturn and change in consumer buying habits that bested Borwick. The store began losing money several years ago when its contractor business dropped off. When the housing market stalled, many contractors were out of work.
Today's homeowners also prefer to hire contractors rather than fix up homes themselves. And they look online first for products, Borwick says. This shift has made it tough for small hardware stores to keep their doors open.
Since news broke about Seitz-Agin's departure, a steady stream of customers have stopped by each day to purchase one last can of paint or tube of caulk, and to wish Borwick and his staff well and thank them for their years of service.
Mitchell says he hopes to find a new tenant for the Seitz-Agin storefront by Labor Day.
Source: Seitz-Agin
Writer: Lee Chilcote
The store has proudly survived the onslaught of big box stores. When Home Depot and Wal-Mart opened at nearby Severance, Seitz-Agin trundled on, propelled by a loyal fan base and friendly personal service. Years of customer appreciation awards and press clippings from local publications adorn the walls.
Now, after decades as a fixture on Lee Road, Seitz-Again will close its doors for good on June 18th. Borwick has inked a deal to sell the building to Heights merchant Bill Mitchell, who owns Mitchell's Fine Chocolates just down the block.
In the end, it wasn't the big box stores that did the shop in, explains Borwick. Ultimately, it was the economic downturn and change in consumer buying habits that bested Borwick. The store began losing money several years ago when its contractor business dropped off. When the housing market stalled, many contractors were out of work.
Today's homeowners also prefer to hire contractors rather than fix up homes themselves. And they look online first for products, Borwick says. This shift has made it tough for small hardware stores to keep their doors open.
Since news broke about Seitz-Agin's departure, a steady stream of customers have stopped by each day to purchase one last can of paint or tube of caulk, and to wish Borwick and his staff well and thank them for their years of service.
Mitchell says he hopes to find a new tenant for the Seitz-Agin storefront by Labor Day.
Source: Seitz-Agin
Writer: Lee Chilcote
Researchers at CWRU have invented a polymer coating that can repair itself. Stuart Rowan, CWRU professor of macromolecular science and engineering, along with his team and researchers from the University of Fribourg in Switzerland and the Army Research Laboratory at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, has spent the last three years developing a rubber-like protective coating that heals itself when an ultraviolet light is shined on it for just a few seconds.
"The idea was to develop a coating that, if it was damaged in any way, we could repair just by shining a light on it," says Rowan. "A lot of my research is creating stimulating response materials."
The science behind the technology involves taking a long chain of polymers and reducing it to small chains. When the UV light -- much like the light used in dentist offices -- shines on them, the polymers become temporarily unglued. They reassemble when the light is shut off, thus repairing the scratches.
"It works perfectly for coating penetrations," says Rowan.
The scientists envision that self-healing polymers like theirs could be used in automotive paints, varnishes for floors and furniture, and many other applications. "The material could be used in potentially any paint or coating use," says Rowan.
Their findings were published in the April 21 issue of the journal Nature.
The team is currently in talks with companies to see if there is an interest in commercializing the material.
Source: Stuart Rowan
Writer: Karen Connelly
"The idea was to develop a coating that, if it was damaged in any way, we could repair just by shining a light on it," says Rowan. "A lot of my research is creating stimulating response materials."
The science behind the technology involves taking a long chain of polymers and reducing it to small chains. When the UV light -- much like the light used in dentist offices -- shines on them, the polymers become temporarily unglued. They reassemble when the light is shut off, thus repairing the scratches.
"It works perfectly for coating penetrations," says Rowan.
The scientists envision that self-healing polymers like theirs could be used in automotive paints, varnishes for floors and furniture, and many other applications. "The material could be used in potentially any paint or coating use," says Rowan.
Their findings were published in the April 21 issue of the journal Nature.
The team is currently in talks with companies to see if there is an interest in commercializing the material.
Source: Stuart Rowan
Writer: Karen Connelly
cle met zoo offers sanctuary to grieving elephant
What started out as a sad tale of elephant grief has ended on a high note.
Shenga, 28-year-old, 7,900-pound female had been at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo since 2003. When her elderly exhibit mate died late last year, zookeepers knew the best thing for Shenga would be to move her to an exhibit with other companions. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo was selected because of its new five-acre African Elephant Crossing exhibit, which debuted in early May.
An animal care manager from Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo accompanied Shenga on her trip to town, even staying for a few days help her acclimate. Her new exhibit mates include one male and three other females.
This item in the Omaha World-Herald says, "If anyone has any doubts about how Shenga likes it in Cleveland, check out the video of her in the swimming pond."
Read the article and watch the fun here.
Shenga, 28-year-old, 7,900-pound female had been at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo since 2003. When her elderly exhibit mate died late last year, zookeepers knew the best thing for Shenga would be to move her to an exhibit with other companions. The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo was selected because of its new five-acre African Elephant Crossing exhibit, which debuted in early May.
An animal care manager from Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo accompanied Shenga on her trip to town, even staying for a few days help her acclimate. Her new exhibit mates include one male and three other females.
This item in the Omaha World-Herald says, "If anyone has any doubts about how Shenga likes it in Cleveland, check out the video of her in the swimming pond."
Read the article and watch the fun here.
Salty Not Sweet, an independent boutique and letterpress studio, opened this month in a storefront on West 25th Street in Ohio City. It is one of several new businesses that have opened this year in the Market District, adding to a redevelopment trend in the area.
The store, which first opened a year ago in the Waterloo Arts District, features unique wares that are carefully sourced by co-owner Candra Squire, including merchandise from Megan Lee Designs (a screen-printed clothing line from Chicago) and Helen Pe (a Brooklyn artist who makes tiny original drawings in ring settings).
The new Salty Not Sweet also features vintage goods. In fact, most of the shop displays are made from vintage materials, including old soda crates, refinished furniture and tea cups that are all for sale.
The new location is primed to become a local crafters' paradise. Co-owner Melissa Major makes soap, candles and original lines of handmade home and body goods in a studio in the back of the store. Customers can watch Major work while they browse the store's offerings. The "Salty girls" promise to add public workshops that will be taught by area artists and crafters in the coming months.
Co-owner Candra Squire came up with the name "Salty Not Sweet" when a friend asked her to describe her work a few years ago, and it stuck. In addition to representing out-of-state artists, the shop offers Squire's original, tongue-in-cheek greeting cards (which are plenty salty, and not at all sweet).
Salty Not Sweet is located at 2074 West 25th Street.
Source: Salty Not Sweet
Writer: Lee Chilcote
The store, which first opened a year ago in the Waterloo Arts District, features unique wares that are carefully sourced by co-owner Candra Squire, including merchandise from Megan Lee Designs (a screen-printed clothing line from Chicago) and Helen Pe (a Brooklyn artist who makes tiny original drawings in ring settings).
The new Salty Not Sweet also features vintage goods. In fact, most of the shop displays are made from vintage materials, including old soda crates, refinished furniture and tea cups that are all for sale.
The new location is primed to become a local crafters' paradise. Co-owner Melissa Major makes soap, candles and original lines of handmade home and body goods in a studio in the back of the store. Customers can watch Major work while they browse the store's offerings. The "Salty girls" promise to add public workshops that will be taught by area artists and crafters in the coming months.
Co-owner Candra Squire came up with the name "Salty Not Sweet" when a friend asked her to describe her work a few years ago, and it stuck. In addition to representing out-of-state artists, the shop offers Squire's original, tongue-in-cheek greeting cards (which are plenty salty, and not at all sweet).
Salty Not Sweet is located at 2074 West 25th Street.
Source: Salty Not Sweet
Writer: Lee Chilcote