Local Business

The Ritzy Chic: Store Discounts & New Online Shop

Given the horrible weather, we have had to close The Ritzy Chic many times. So, we decided to take the opportunity to turn this into a positive experience.  For March and April, we will have limited hours (basically closing in extremely cold or snowy weather). Our new hours will be 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuseday to Friday and 11 a.m to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

Recently, we set up a 24/7 online shopping experience at www.vintage2voguestore.com.

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Volume 2, Issue 8, Posted 4:21 PM, 03.05.2015

Retailers Clash on Internet Sales Tax

Brick and mortar retailers are clashing with their online competitors when it comes to who should pay sales taxes. Up to now, transactions made by online businesses like Amazon or Expedia are not taxed. This is good for consumers who shop on the Internet but not so good for the competition - brick and mortar retailers - who are required to charge tax.

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Volume 2, Issue 8, Posted 11:46 AM, 03.14.2015

Storewide New Year's Sale

Ringing in the New Year is more than just a sale at The Ritzy Chic...it's a BLOWOUT SALE!  Look at what we're offering. First, the point-of-purchase sale: items priced from $5-$10...you pay $3 each;  items priced from $11-$20...you pay only $8 each; and items priced from $21-$35...you pay only $15 each. But wait, we're not finished. Second, clip out the coupon in our ad and receive 50% off any single item in the store. Third, take 25% off the original price on winter coats. Fourth, take an additional 10% off any clearance item.  

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Volume 2, Issue 7, Posted 11:13 AM, 01.13.2015

Territorial Aggression in Dogs

In many neighborhoods, there’s that one dog. Whether in the home or outside in the yard, he or she is barking at anyone or anything that comes near the house. While many people like a dog that “alarm barks“, an owner must be careful that his dog does not develop a case of territorial aggression.

Don’t get me wrong. I wouldn’t mind it if my dog went after a robber trying to break into my house. But some dogs will take their territorial guarding/aggression too far, focusing it on family, friends, or completely innocent people.

Training Cosmo

Back in the fall of last year, I received a call about a very territorial dog named Cosmo. According to his owners Trevor and Lauren,  Cosmo was initially a great guard dog. He would bark briefly at the sound of the doorbell or knocking, and he also let his owners know when strangers were approaching the home.

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Volume 2, Issue 7, Posted 11:13 AM, 01.13.2015

Be Inspired by Period Dramas

January is not only the start of the New Year but also the new season of “Downton Abbey“. If you are like me, you love period dramas and for more than just the wonderful story lines. Some period dramas allow us to see aristocratic life and all its fineries.

A well-written story line of the struggles of the rich and the intersecting lives of their servants can keep us hooked and coming back for more. But for antique lovers, it’s much more than the story line. Period dramas offer a world of decorative splendor.

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Volume 2, Issue 7, Posted 11:13 AM, 01.13.2015

A January Vegetable Dish

Stovetop Cauliflower with Parmesan, Pine Nuts and Capers

This easy yet gourmet side dish is a healthy yet filling dish for the January detox.  Toasted pine nuts enhance the nuttiness of roasted cauliflower, while salty Parmesan and capers pack this dish full of flavor.  Serve with roasted chicken or broiled salmon for a complete meal.

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Volume 2, Issue 7, Posted 11:13 AM, 01.13.2015

Share Your Blessings...Fund a Tree

Not every year...but every day we should count our blessings for what we have and what we have accomplished.  I've taught my children..."be the best person you can and live your life to the fullest".  One day you may be on top of the world and the next, you may be told you have cancer. Then the world becomes all about love, compassion, respect, hoping, and the will to survive. With that in mind, I would like to ask for the support of the community in our "Fund a Tree" event.

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Volume 2, Issue 6, Posted 3:45 PM, 12.10.2014

"Drones" to Bring Jobs to Fairview Park

It’s been a long time since Cleveland has seen any new innovation. Ever since the industrial days of LTV Steel, our city has been starving for new advancements in the job sector. It would only make sense that the time is now, given the way things are now going for our city - the RNC convention, LeBron’s return, and new developments downtown.

What’s next? Cleveland Aerial Media LLC. (a year old company) plans to be the pioneers and pave the path for new innovation in Fairview Park.

Drone technology requires many different applications such as software development, mechanical engineering, and piloting abilities. Because of this, Cleveland Aerial Media LLC. plans to expand and create new jobs in Fairview Park.

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Volume 2, Issue 6, Posted 3:48 PM, 12.10.2014

New Barber at Rockport Barber Styling

With a family lineage tracing her barbershop roots back to Italy, the newest addition to Rockport Barber Styling - Marie Simeone - is blending that heritage with her love for "All Things Cleveland" to create a welcoming environment for all ages.

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Volume 2, Issue 6, Posted 6:04 PM, 12.11.2014

The Importance of Dog Socialization

Everyone from the veterinarian to the pizza delivery guy seems to tell the new owner of a puppy or dog that he or she needs to get the dog “socialized”. In the dog world, socialization is in every doggy magazine, training advertisement and Website. The message is absolutely right - socialization is very important.

While the message is clear, the how-tos and the dangers of improper socialization are usually not discussed. It’s a point that I often cover many times in my in-home dog and puppy training.

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Volume 2, Issue 6, Posted 6:08 PM, 12.11.2014

Shelini's Fine Jewelry Treasures

Christopher and Vera Shelini recently established Shelini’s Treasures, a fine jewelry store located at 17810 Detroit Avenue.  The store provides quality items at manufacturer and wholesale prices. "Our goal is to give quality back to the consumer.”

Thus, the Shelinis established “Shelini’s Treasures” in Lakewood specifically to offer fine jewelry at reduced prices.

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Volume 2, Issue 6, Posted 2:42 PM, 12.12.2014

Roasted Mushroom, Kale and Bean Soup

This roasted mushroom, kale and bean soup is both hearty and healthy.  Pureed beans give the stock a rich texture without adding cream. Roasted mushrooms are meaty and filling, and the kale adds nourishing fiber and protein.  Garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage and parmesan pack this soup full of savory flavors.

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Volume 2, Issue 6, Posted 2:38 PM, 12.12.2014

Shop Local for the Holidays

With the holiday shopping season getting into full swing, local businesses are encouraging people to buy from local businesses. Local independent retailers have several distinct advantages over national big box competitors.

The economic argument for why customers should shop locally is simple. Spending at local businesses helps the local economy by providing jobs. Local entrepreneurs also tend to buy from local suppliers and use local professional services such as attorneys and accountants.

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 3:57 PM, 11.11.2014

The Ritzy Chic Supports All Cancer Survivors

In October, The Ritzy Chic is planning a different sale and promotion every week.  As a special thanks to our customers for their continuing support, we will be handing out a customer appreciation card that entitles them to 10% off any item in the shop, including sale items. 

You must have this card and only one purchase per day will be permitted. In the first week, October 1 through 5,  our sale will be all nearly-new clothing at 75% off (vintage clothing and accessories excluded).  From this sale, we will donate 100% proceeds to our beneficiary of the month.

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 6:28 PM, 10.01.2014

Metheny Weir Brings Chalk Paint® to the West Side

Now Cleveland Westsiders can visit Metheny Weir’s new Rocky River studio to learn easy DIY paint techniques that will enable them to channel their creative energies and transform their home decors. This new store is located at 20254 Detroit Road.

Demand for the Chalk Paint® by Annie Sloan and for painting classes taught by co-owners Kim Metheny and Sue Weir has grown in recent years at their original studio in Shaker Heights. “We have a bunch of customers who make the trek over to Shaker from Rocky River, Lakewood, Westlake and Avon so we think there’s a great opportunity to grow here,” says Metheny.

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 4:03 PM, 11.11.2014

Gestures Gallery: Local Art and Crafts

Gestures Gallery - in the heart of Rocky River at 1150 Linda Street - has been providing over 130 different regional artisans a place to showcase their work for five years. Gestures is stocked full of one of a kind creations, including wall art, jewelry, hand-crafted soaps, pottery, cards, plus many functional fiber art pieces. 

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 3:54 PM, 11.11.2014

Meet the New Owner of Herb's Tavern

One of Rocky River’s venerable eating and drinking establishments recently changed ownership after celebrating its 50th anniversary in business. Herb’s Tavern at 19925 Detroit Road is now owned by Kim Berry, who bought the business earlier this year.

When Berry took over, a lot of work needed to be done. “My parents’ standards were very high for food quality, cleanliness and customer service. I had no choice but to start with a new staff. In May, Herb’s closed for three days to clean and train new staff." Many customers left, claiming that Berry was changing everything - from rewriting the menu to knocking down the walls.

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 4:13 PM, 11.11.2014

Century Cycles Named a Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Business

The League of American Bicyclists has recognized Rocky River-based bicycle shop Century Cycles as a Gold-Level Bicycle Friendly Business. The league is a national non-profit advocacy group that is leading the movement to create a Bicycle Friendly America for everyone. It announced the 2014 list of 150 new and renewing Bicycle Friendly Businesses on September 24. Century Cycles joins a list of over 800 local businesses, government agencies, and Fortune 500 companies across the country that are transforming the American workplace.

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 4:07 PM, 11.11.2014

Dog Training: Sooner Is Better

As the owner of Rockstar Dog Training, I meet many people and dogs in different situations. Unfortunately, I'm usually called to someone’s home after a behavior problem has already developed.

It may come as a surprise that the best time to call a dog trainer is before you even get a dog! On occasion, I've been hired prior to a client picking out a puppy. I’ve been able to assist not only in the selection of the dog but also in the initial homecoming.

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 4:05 PM, 11.11.2014

An Easy Holiday Side Dish

This recipe puts a gourmet spin on roasted butternut squash with a hint of sweet balsamic vinegar, pieces of smoky bacon, and crunchy walnuts.  It’s a great side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas, but it’s easy enough to serve any night of the week. 

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Volume 2, Issue 5, Posted 3:04 PM, 11.12.2014

Framing from the Heart

This morning a large envelope was in my mail. Not expecting anything of size, I looked at it wondering what could be inside, and then I noticed a return address sticker from my favorite aunt. Inside was a gift she'd received from friends who had just returned from four months of traveling. It was a print from a Chinese antique store. These are the framing projects I love the most.

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Volume 2, Issue 4, Posted 9:14 AM, 10.02.2014

Revitalization in Upholstery Industry

Fabric Showcase, established in 1974, specializes in furniture reupholstery. General Manager Andrew Bodjanac, a third-generation upholsterer, grew up around furniture. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mr. Bodjanac to discuss the business.

“Growing up in my dad’s shop, an upholsterer was the last thing I wanted to be,” says Andrew. “Working directly with clients and seeing the transformation of an old piece of furniture into something beautiful opened my eyes to the beauty of the trade.”

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Volume 2, Issue 4, Posted 9:12 AM, 10.02.2014

Roasted Sweet Potato Tacos

This healthy, hearty fall dish is so filling that even the staunchest meat eater won’t notice that it’s vegetarian.  Roasted spiced sweet potatoes, smoked cheddar, creamy avocado, crunchy pepitas and a sweet and spicy honey chipotle drizzle combine for a new take on tacos.  Add black beans to stretch the meal for more people and to add protein.

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Volume 2, Issue 4, Posted 11:42 AM, 10.04.2014

Business Expo Returns on October 9

The Rocky River Chamber of Commerce presents its 12th annual Business Expo on Thursday, October 9, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Don Umerley Civic Center, 21016 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River. You are invited to attend and meet the business people who have products and services that are right here in our own backyard.  Admission is free when you present your business card.

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Volume 2, Issue 4, Posted 10:35 AM, 10.01.2014

The Ritzy Chic Offers Online Liquidations and Sales

Once again, we are adding more features to enhance The Ritzy Chic shopping experience. We are including the same fine items we are now offering for sale on our website.  In our shop, each section has been organized by a theme.  When you first walk through the door, to the left, you will see a beautiful cherry hutch with a charming set of fine Danish china. Straight ahead in the same room, you will find our gleaming glassware sorted by their own vibrant colors. Wrapped around the far right-hand side of the room, you will find all of our pottery, collectibles, more fine china, cups, saucers, figurines, and more.

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Volume 2, Issue 3, Posted 7:30 PM, 09.03.2014

NADA BAR Opens in Rocky River

NADA BAR opened for business on June 2.  It's mission is to provide an alcohol-free experience for all ages in a traditional bar atmosphere.

The owners, Earl Speer and Patty Acra, were asked, “Why the name NADA BAR?”  There are two reasons:  1. If you say it out loud, it sounds like you are saying “not a bar” and it's not a bar because no alcohol is served, and 2. NADA is an acronym for No Alcohol or Drugs Allowed.

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Volume 2, Issue 3, Posted 7:20 PM, 09.03.2014

Fitness Tailored to Your Body

Everyone has fitness goals. If you want to meet yours, you need a workout and nutritional plan that’s as unique as your body. At Achieve Fitness Studio in Rocky River, personalized fitness training starts on Day 1. Achieve Fitness is a personal training studio that offers one-on-one and small-group training, as well as sports and conditioning training.

An initial consultation gives your new trainer an idea of your fitness goals, and a physical assessment evaluates key areas of your current fitness, such as strength and endurance.

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Volume 2, Issue 3, Posted 9:42 AM, 09.03.2014

The Beauty of Lighting

The beauty of light. Light has been celebrated from the beginning of time, from the early fire pits of primitive man; to the oil pots that provided portable light; to the candles and oil lamps that provided light for dining and reading in more recent centuries. But how about the design and artistry of the lamp that emits the light. Do we take lamps for granted?

This gas lamp (circa 1848 by R.W. Winfield & Co, England) in the picture is an extraordinary example of a time and culture that had a passion for nature and craftsmanship. Made of gilt brass and glass, the lamp was for a fine English home. For more great objects, view The Victoria and Albert Museum's website. www.vam.ac.uk.

 

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Volume 2, Issue 3, Posted 7:12 PM, 09.03.2014

Caramelized Onion, Mushroom, Steak and Gruyere Dip

Football season is back in full swing, which means one thing for food lovers: tailgating! Make this amazing caramelized onion, mushroom, steak and Gruyere dish ahead of time and reheat it on the grill as the coals heat up.  Serve it with grilled bread brushed with a garlic clove or your favorite crackers.

You certainly don't need to tailgate to make this delicious dip though.  Make it for game day from the comfort of your own home.

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Volume 2, Issue 3, Posted 7:26 PM, 09.03.2014

Pilates as Therapeutic Exercise

Fourteen years ago I was told I needed a spinal fusion.  A second opinion suggested a rod in my spine would provide relief from the constant pain I had experienced for 18 months. Today I am pain free, at least as much as any 56-year-old diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, herniated discks and a formerly fractured cervical spine! Seriously, my body functions beautifully. I enjoy an active life and feel younger in my fifties than I did in my forties. And I never had surgery.

Pilates changed my life...truly. So let me share with you what Pilates is and how it might help you too.

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Volume 2, Issue 2, Posted 1:45 PM, 08.07.2014

Now Hiring Part-Time Activities Assistant at The Presidential

The Presidential Apartments in Rocky River is currently looking for a part-time activities assistant. This position is responsible for the smooth operation of planned, scheduled recreational activities for The Presidential Apartments. This could include overseeing, planning and implementation of classes, supervising volunteers and coordinating with other departments. Position will report to the Activities Director. Please send resume to:  tlanham@ownerslive.com.

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Volume 2, Issue 2, Posted 10:08 AM, 08.10.2014

An Alternative to Foils for Hair Coloring

TOMORROWS Salon in Rocky River takes pride in using proven salon techniques that lead to consistent client satisfaction.  One such technique is the use of plastic wrap as opposed to traditional foils in applying color for highlights and lowlights. Several stylists at TOMORROWS, including Genevieve, have mastered this method with great success.

"This is a trademark of TOMORROWS," says Genevieve. "We've been doing it since 1981 and have perfected the process. The plastic wrap method allows you to cover as much hair as possible, which makes it ideal for big color changes. You can get closer to the scalp for a better overall result."

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Volume 2, Issue 2, Posted 10:07 AM, 08.10.2014

WT Café = Healthy Lunches for Children

Some of the toughest food critics are children. Many children won’t eat what they don’t like. And we can all agree that food left uneaten has no nutritional value. So, for a lot of parents, schools and caregivers, serving meals that are delicious and healthy is a real concern.

When WT Café makes lunches for children, the reviews are always positive. Because lunch tastes so good, children might forget that it’s healthy too!

 

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Volume 2, Issue 2, Posted 2:02 PM, 08.07.2014

The Ritzy Chic Loves Rocky River!

Wow! What a great place to have a business.  I love the cottage-style house that I turned into The Ritzy Chic shop. Rocky River has so much to offer...I just love it!  Surrounded by the charm of the community and it's wonderful environment, we take pleasure in offering a wide selection of items.

The shop features furniture and home furnishings, collectible pottery, kitchenware, barware, beer signs, advertising items and more.  The highlight of my shop is definitely the vintage clothing and hats and a huge selection of designer and costume jewelry.

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Volume 2, Issue 2, Posted 1:43 PM, 08.07.2014

Look and Feel Like an Epic Beauty at Eternal Salon

Eternal Salon, formerly known as Prive Hair Salon and Day Spa, is located in the quaint yet bustling Old River Shopping Center.  Owner Nicole Breitmayer is a long hair specialist with a background in hair extensions, makeup art, and on-set styling. 

She has worked with many of Cleveland's leading film and photography professionals such as Robert Banks, D. Trundle of "The Artist", and Global Entertainment.  Nicole has been certified in fusion, micro link, and tape in hair extensions through Donna Bella Milan since 2010. Her work with Cleveland's 48 Hour Film Project has landed her credits on IMDb (Internet Movie Database). 

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Volume 2, Issue 2, Posted 1:48 PM, 08.07.2014

It’s All in the Legs!

Even in furniture, it is all about the legs! Furniture legs come in many shapes and sizes. Some are thicker or curvier than others are. No matter what the style or shape, legs lift a piece, giving it not only stability or necessary height but also importance in some cases.

Yes, the execution of a leg can determine quality - as well as help in identifying the style of a piece, its age, and country of origin.

So, now when you look at a chair, a box, a table or case goods, pay attention to the legs. A great set of legs makes for a more elegant structure and moves a piece from being just practical to being a work of art.

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Volume 2, Issue 2, Posted 8:36 PM, 08.06.2014

Zucchini Chips


These baked zucchini chips are a healthy alternative to fried potato chips and they're a great way to use up bumper crops of zucchini!  Zucchini slices are dehydrated in an oven until they become crispy and crunchy.  Top them with parmesan for a low-fat hint of salty cheesiness. 
 
Feel free to get creative and use your favorite flavored oils or salts.  Basil or garlic oil would be delicious.  Try smoked sea salt for a gourmet touch.
  

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Volume 2, Issue 2, Posted 1:47 PM, 08.07.2014

Grab The Bubbly!

Few things embody the true sensation of celebration like a bottle of bubbly. We toast unions and the New Year, christen ships, splurge on promotions, build overflowing glass fountains, and spray the bubbles of victory on the heads of our teammates. Whatever you call it - champagne or sparkling wine - every pop and fizz is a tiny cheer for the milestones in our lives.

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Volume 2, Issue 1, Posted 4:03 PM, 07.02.2014

The Ritzy Chic's Cottage Charm

The Ritzy Chic is a charming new shoppe located in the heart of Rocky River at 1413 Linda Street. The shop offers a huge selection of upscale and cottage-style furniture, collectibles, vintage clothing and jewelry, and designer label clothing. Many items are from estate sales. The bride-to-be will be delighted by the selection of vintage bridal items.

Summer hours are Wednesday, noon to 7 p.m.—Thursday and Friday, noon to 8 p.m.—Saturday and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. 

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Volume 2, Issue 1, Posted 1:23 PM, 07.03.2014

How to Choose... and Wear, a Fragrance

Scents have a fascinating ability to activate memories and feelings. Our sense of smell is instinctive. The olfactory receptors in the nose connect directly to the brain's limbic system—the area of the brain responsible for emotions and memory.

Before you become consciously aware of a fragrance, your brain has already been analyzing and categorizing the scent. This sense is so powerful that it is used as a therapeutic tool in treating Alzheimer's patients. The patients are asked to identify scents and describe the memories associated with them.

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Volume 2, Issue 1, Posted 5:53 PM, 07.03.2014

Original Work, Print or Copy?

Is it an original work of art, a print or a copy? I am asked these questions every day. Let’s explore what the differences are and how one can tell the difference between them.

Art has probably been enjoyed from the beginning of time. It has been a way of expressing one’s feelings and thoughts. Viewers are pulled into it and have a visceral reaction. Most of the art we at Mitchell Sotka look at has been produced over the past 200 years. Themes range from paintings depicting landscapes, portraits, still life, and interior views—to abstract images. Paintings can be labeled as a gauche, watercolor, acrylic or oil. These colorful renditions are created one at a time by hand. And although they may depict a famous work or have a repetitive theme, they are still one-of-a-kind and not mass produced.

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Volume 2, Issue 1, Posted 4:05 PM, 07.04.2014

Avoiding Dog Behavior Problems In Your Home

I do in-home dog training in the Rocky River and Fairview Park areas. I specialize in severe aggression and anxiety cases. However, in this article I’d like to talk a bit about how to prevent behavior problems from occurring, especially the first time you bring a dog home or even better before you head out to get your new canine friend!

Initial leash and collar supervision is the number one way to set your dog up for success and establish rules in the home!

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Volume 2, Issue 1, Posted 5:50 PM, 07.03.2014

Grilled Pork Chop with Grilled Balsamic Pineapple

Grilling season is in full swing here. We know it might be difficult to imagine getting sick of hot dogs and hamburgers—but once you are, keep this recipe handy! It only requires a few ingredients and you’ll turn out a gourmet meal in less than 15 minutes (with the grill preheated). 

The balsamic grilled pineapple from this recipe is incredibly versatile, too. Use one of The Olive Scene’s flavored balsamic vinegars, such as Vanilla, Strawberry or Dark Chocolate, to serve the pineapple for dessert (vanilla ice cream accompaniment highly encouraged). Or, make a grilled fruit salad by applying the same method to peaches and watermelon.  Throw in fresh mint for good measure.

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Volume 2, Issue 1, Posted 3:57 PM, 07.04.2014

A Bigger and Better Ritzy Chic

Ritzy Chic has a new location with more space and a bigger selection of unique items.  The store now carrys upscale furniture and home furnishings as well as vintage clothing and accessories, designer handbags, and vintage and signed designer jewelry.

Ritzy Chic consigns selectively and Deborah Simone thru Estate Liquidators Inc. handles many estate sales items.  The shop actively seeks high-end, designer-quality clothing and home furnishings, and considers buying designer handbags or jewelry.  

The shop supports cancer survivors through sales and donations.

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Volume 1, Issue 12, Posted 5:59 PM, 06.04.2014

Simplify Your Kitchen and Bath Remodel

Remodeling your kitchen and bath can be a fun, but it can also be overwhelming. Today’s options for materials are endless, and the search for installers can be tedious.

The following steps can get you started on the right path.

Gather ideas on the look and style you like from home décor magazines, or better yet, log onto www.houzz.com or www.pintrest.com and create your own ideas book.

Search for specific items, such as “modern kitchen with tile floors” or “traditional bath with quartz counter tops.”  Save your ideas into your own idea book or folder on the website.

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Volume 1, Issue 12, Posted 5:09 PM, 06.04.2014

Power of MORE! Give-Away

In late April, over 300 members from six West Side Chambers of Commerce attended the Power of MORE! Grand Prize Drawing event held at Outdoor Dreamscapes in Avon.  Over $10,000 in prizes were given away, including the grand prize of a customized outdoor kitchen designed and built by Outdoor Dreamscapes.
 
Power of MORE! chambers help its members grow their businesses by networking with other business and community leaders across the West Side. Every member that attends a Power of MORE! event is entered into the Power of MORE! drawing. The more events a member attends, the better his or her chances to win. Power of MORE! chamber members grow their businesses, make new friends and win prizes along the way.

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Volume 1, Issue 12, Posted 5:17 PM, 06.06.2014

Waterford Crystal: A Beautiful Classic

Waterford Crystal, known by generations for its gorgeous cut crystal stemware, chandeliers and other luxury goods has a history that stretches back much further than our grandparents’ holiday meals. Let’s explore Waterford:  where its roots are, how it grew into a worldwide brand, and where it stands today.

The story begins with George and William Penrose, brothers who wanted to create quality glass equal to that of European factories.  They started on their quest in 1783 with a small factory in Waterford, Ireland.

Several factors augured for success. Glass imported from Europe was heavily taxed, but Ireland was exempt from this tax. Moreover, demand in England was higher than the supply.

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Volume 1, Issue 12, Posted 4:46 PM, 06.05.2014

Balsamic-Roasted Cherry Tomato Pasta

Summer’s bounty is almost here!  We can't wait for the zucchini, corn, eggplant, basil, cucumbers...oh my!  Use up some of the cherry tomato harvest in this easy, delicious pasta dish.  It comes together in about 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.  Bonus points for using tomatoes and basil from your own garden!

Pass a big bowl of freshly grated Parmesan for people to help themselves.  Serve with crusty rustic bread and a side salad.

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Volume 1, Issue 12, Posted 5:03 PM, 06.04.2014

Body Sugaring: An Organic Solution to Unwanted Hair

As a salon and spa owner and operator, I am often asked about the latest hair coloring and styling techniques, as well as the most effective skin treatments. At DKM Salon and Spa in Fairview Park, I continue to see growth in sugaring services for hair removal. With summer fast approaching, clients and referrals are booking quickly. Gentlemen and ladies are seeking the organic, gentle process of sugaring for beautifully smooth skin.
 

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Volume 1, Issue 11, Posted 3:46 PM, 05.01.2014

On The Move and Downsizing

Aging, moving, purging, and downsizing. The next words may be inevitable, stressful, puzzling and impossible. Life is full of changes. As children, we play house. We look forward to that day when we will set up our first home.  However, as children we do not practice “downsizing” even though it is part of adulthood too.

Mary Lou Ferbert, native Clevelander and a woman past her octogenarian induction, is nearing the end of her downsizing journey. Her experiences may provide insight to your future downsizing dilemmas and help you find the courage to start the process.

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Volume 1, Issue 11, Posted 4:17 PM, 04.30.2014

Learning to Love Kale

Kale is a nutritional super-star, but many people find it less than super-delicious! However, the way you chop and dress kale can change all that. Try slicing it into thin strips, and adding lots of interesting extras. This salad - Dino Kale and Carrot Salad with Curried Humus Dressing - is satisfying enough for a meal when served with crusty bread and sliced fruit. Perfect for a Mother’s Day luncheon, or as a side dish during your Kentucky Derby Party. 

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Volume 1, Issue 11, Posted 3:44 PM, 05.01.2014

Fairview Park Chamber Business Showcase

In April, nearly 600 attendees and 90 businesses participated in the fourth annual Fairview Park Chamber Business Showcase at the Gemini Center.  Marjorie Snyder, Showcase Chairperson, said she received several comments that it was the best showcase ever.

Bob Leusch, President and Owner of Leusch Insurance, remarked that this is first year that he participated in the showcase and will never miss it again. Tim Sacko, President of the Fairview Park Chamber of Commerce, commented that it is going to be impossible to top this year’s sold-out event.

 

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Volume 1, Issue 11, Posted 4:06 PM, 04.30.2014

Vintage Ceramic Pots Hold the Key to Spring

Spring is around the corner. Soon we will have flea markets, green vegetation in our yards and fresh air blowing through our windows. There are decorative objects that make warm weather seem not so far away. Vintage ceramics molded into pots, vases and vessels in monochrome, bright colored or mottled finishes give us a taste of spring and summer no matter what the weather conditions outside. So, do more than think of these iconic American treasures, start the hunt for them as a great way to banish the winter blues.

These colorful pots with interesting shapes are from companies such as McCoy, Haeger, Roseville and others. They were made in factories in Ohio, Chicago and California. The iconic forms have deco influences from the 1940s to streamline shapes and wild colors from the 1970s to jazz up any interior. Depending on condition, glaze and type, the pots may set you back $8 to $50.

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Volume 1, Issue 10, Posted 5:25 PM, 04.02.2014

Fairview Park Chamber Showcases Local Businesses

The Fairview Park community is being offered the chance to discover what its local businesses have to offer, courtesy of the Fairview Park Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber’s annual Business Showcase is taking place Thursday, April 10, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Gemini Center.

The Business Showcase serves to connect our local businesses with each other and with our residents. Free samples, brochures, and goody bags are typical as businesses seek to form mutually beneficial relationships with their peers and with new customers.

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Volume 1, Issue 10, Posted 5:30 PM, 04.02.2014

A Spring Favorite: Asparagus

Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan Breadcrumbs

One of the culinary highlights of spring is the arrival of asparagus.  While you can find it year-round, asparagus is most tender and flavorful in April. 

This recipe showcases asparagus by roasting it with olive oil to intensify its flavor.  Breadcrumbs toasted with olive oil, herbs and Parmesan add salty texture.  And a drizzle of balsamic ties the dish together. 

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Volume 1, Issue 10, Posted 3:17 PM, 04.02.2014

Casey's Irish Imports: Celebrating 25 Years of Bringing Irish Treasures to Cleveland

Cead Mile Failte, One Hundred Thousand Welcomes, awaits you at Casey's Irish Imports, Inc. in Rocky River. After just celebrating 25 years of business in October, the Casey family and staff are gearing up for another brilliant St. Patrick's Day!

Original founders, Vera and Tom Casey fulfilled a lifelong dream of importing the treasures of their native Ireland to America when they established their business in 1988.  Today, two of their daughters, Maureen Casey Brubaker and Kathleen Casey Proctor, continue to run this unique family-owned buniness.

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Volume 1, Issue 9, Posted 1:51 PM, 03.04.2014

Take a Tour with Diana: An Artisan of Travel to Italy

Diana Maiola Cirino is the owner of two Rocky River based businesses:  Italian Tours & Travel by Diana and Anna Mia Jewelry.  Both boutiques are located in the Old River shopping district and offer customized experiences based on Maiola’s Italian heritage.  Maiola says she feels fortunate to be able to share and represent her deep, longtime passions for both Italian jewelry and travel to Italy.

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Volume 1, Issue 9, Posted 3:06 PM, 03.04.2014

Sport Clips Haircuts Makes It Good to be a Guy

Sport Clips Haircuts, a place that makes it good to be a guy, has just opened in the River Commons Shopping Center on Detroit Road in Rocky River. This is the first Sport Clips location in the city, adding to the more than 1,000 shops across the country. "What's better than being in a relaxing enviroment with sports on TV everywhere you look, well-trained stylists, and no need for an appointment when it's time for a haircut?" said Lori Yeager, Team Leader for the new Sport Clips.  "These are just a few reasons why we know Sport Clips will be a hit for the guys in Rocky River."

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Volume 1, Issue 9, Posted 3:04 PM, 03.04.2014

Is the Cloud Right for You?

There is a lot of buzz right now about working “in the cloud”.  If you have a Yahoo, Gmail, or AOL account for email, or use web backups, or share pictures and updates on social media, you are in fact working in the cloud – you’re just borrowing resources on someone else’s hosting machinery.

Pushing your company resources to a cloud platform can make sense, especially if you have a large territory to cover, with lots of highly mobile employees.  It’s usually not a hard transition to make and, depending on needs, can be very cost effective.

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Volume 1, Issue 9, Posted 1:54 PM, 03.04.2014