The Solon Spotlight

1 / The Solon Spotlightwww.duffysflowersandplants.com

The Solon Spotlight February 2012

Say “I Love You”withDuffy’s Flowers!33551 Aurora Rd.(440) 248-8880

2 / The Solon Spotlight The Solon Spotlight / 3 The Solon Spotlight / 3

THE MISSION OF THE SOLON SPOTLIGHT IS TO HIGHLIGHT THE BEST ASPECTS OF THE SOLON COMMUNITY WITH INTERESTING ARTICLES AND STORIES ABOUT MEMBERS IN THE

COMMUNITY. THE PUBLICATION WILL POSITIVELY DISPLAY HOW THE CITY, THE SCHOOLS, AND ITS RESIDENTS MAKE IT ONE OF THE BEST PLACES IN THE NATION TO LIVE AND WORK.

In this issue...Editor’s Letter 4

City News Snow Removal 5From the Senior Center 5Solon’s Railroad 6Shop Duffy’s Flowers 7Chagrin Valley Job Seekers 8

School NewsCongratulations Solon Lego Teams 10 Solon Music Parents 11Valentine’s Coloring Contest 12Cabin Fever Remedies 13

Health/Wellness A New You? Fitness tips to help you 14Health Benefi ts of Dark Chocolate 15Diet Soda: How can something withzero calories make you fat? 16Dry Skin Remedies 17

Entertainment Meet Local Rock Star, Avril Burg 18Fun Valentines Facts 21Great fashion when the cold hits 22Welcome Joey’s Restaurant to Solon 23Miss Know-it-All Q & A 24

What’s Going on Around Town/Classifi eds 25

Real People/Real Thoughts: Reality TV 26

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The Solon Spotlight

17

In this issue..

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4 / The Solon Spotlight The Solon Spotlight / 5

Member of Th e Solon Chamber of Commerce

Publisher and Editor Danielle Rose

Contributing WritersMelissa Fitzgerald

Andrea HillSusan Grossberg

Kamna JainBob Shimits

Designer and Photo EditorAndrea Hill

To reach Th e Solon Spotlight or if you are interested in advertising, please send an email

to Th [email protected] Like us on Facebook

Th e Solon Spotlight is published monthly and is distributed to all residential and business addresses in the City of Solon via U.S. mail.

Please recycle this magazine.

From the Editor...Dear Readers,

Enjoy the February issue of Th e Solon Spotlight! I hope this issue warms your heart with stories on local people helping and caring for others. Th ere are many special people in our community who make a diff erence in other people’s lives. If you would like to see someone you know recognized for selfl ess acts of kindness, please let us know. As I get out into the com-munity, I fi nd that everyone has a special story to share. I am happy to share these stories in hopes of inspiring others.

Speaking of being happy, here are some quotes I found from children about their thoughts on love. Th ese are a few that made me smile…

So sit back and unwrap that box of extra-dark chocolate and enjoy the magazine. Dark chocolate is heart-healthy, don’t you know?

Sincerely,

Danielle Rose

City News...

Pictured above is the SSC Wii Bowling Team that participated in the National Wii Bowling Tournament. Th ey were Regional Champions! - 3rd Place Nationally. Th ey are Ron Smith, Joan Smith, Bill Russell, and Bill Crawford. It was broadcast in September by live simulcast at the AARP National Convention in Las Vegas. Bob Eubanks was the host.

FROM THE SENIOR CENTER:Regional Champs in

Wii Bowling Tournament

FROM THE SENIOR CENTER:

Join the Solon Senior Center for Wii Bowling. Participants can be placed on a team, or register as a team together. No experience is necessary. Th e Senior Center will be happy to help those without experience to learn. All they need to do is ask for training when they register. Senior volunteers will teach them - Wii Learn Together. It is a great way to socialize and get some physical exercise which are important elements of healthy aging.

Call the Solon Senior Center for more information

440-349-6363.

When snow accumulates more than 2 inches, a citywide snow emergency parking ban will be implemented. City Police will issue tickets and/or tow vehicles parked on city streets, so as to allow the plow trucks to clean the snow from the roads. Th ere are simple things all Solon residents can do to help them get the job done. Keep vehicles off the street and maintain a safe distance from the plow trucks (AT LEAST 50 FEET). When clearing a driveway, snow should never be pushed into or across the street. Th is also means that if you have a contractor clean your driveway the contractor should not deposit snow in/or across the street either. Remember, it is nearly impossible for the plow truck drivers to avoid pushing snow back into the driveway apron. Take care where you deposit your snow if you do not want this to occur.

City snow plow operators are qualifi ed individuals who maintain the streets safely and effi ciently. Th ere are two important safety considerations that every resident can follow in order to help your Service Department: 1) Please, watch your children! We all know how fun new snow can be to play in and our drivers are always looking out for children playing but sometimes they are not visible behind snow piles or while playing in the cul-de-sacs.

2) Help the plow truck driver by giving him extra room between his truck and your vehicle. Give extra consideration to what he is trying to accomplish in order to ensure everyone’s safety.

Information obtained from www.solonohio.org

TIPS to HELP THE CITY KEEP THE SNOW COVERED ROADS CLEAR

The Solon Spotlight

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

“My mother says to look for a man who is kind. Th at’s what I’ll do. I’ll fi nd somebody who’s kinda tall and handsome.-- Carolyn, age 8

“Love will fi nd you, even if you are trying to hide from it. I’ve been trying to hide from it since I was 5, but the girls keep fi nding me.” -- Josh, age 8

“No one is sure why it happens, but I heard it has something to do with how you smell. Th at’s why perfume and deodorant are so popular.” --Jan, age 9

“I think you’re supposed to get shot with an arrow or something, but the rest of it isn’t supposed to be so painful.” --Th omas, 8

Pictured on the cover:

One of Duffy’s Flowers and Plants’ beautiful rose arrangements for you to purchase for

your special valentine.


Contributed by Bob Shimits President, Solon Historical Society Early Solon’s railroad connections opened the door for commerce and travel. It was 1849 when plans came to fruition to build a railroad between Warren and Cleveland. Chagrin Falls did their best to reroute the railroad through their Village, but Solon would be the stop on the route. In 1856, Solon residents excited to have the railroad, built and donated its fi rst rail depot on Bainbridge Road to the Cleveland and Mahoning Railroad before any track had ever been laid. After a fi re destroyed the original depot, the second station was built and has now been remodeled into a hair salon and shoe repair businesses. In 1857, the Cleveland and Mahoning Railroad began service with a gala celebration. Th e rails ran through Solon on the North side of Aurora Road, crossing S.O.M. Center Road on a grade crossing (there was no bridge over S.O.M. at this time) South of today’s Solon Center for the Arts. Briar Hill Lake was originally built to be a reservoir to supply water for the steam engines. Th e concrete base of the water tower can still be seen on Solon Road by the track crossing. In 1877, rails were laid between Solon and Chagrin Falls for a narrow gauge train. Th is would allow shipment of goods between Chagrin and Solon, which then could be transferred to the Cleveland and Mahoning line for shipment to Cleveland and beyond. Th is short line railroad named the Chagrin Falls, and Southern was most unreliable with constant breakdowns. It was called many unfl attering names but the name that stuck was the “Hoodlebug”. Until upper grades were provided in Solon’s Red Brick School, students would ride the Hoodlebug to Chagrin Falls to obtain their high school diploma. In 1887, the Cleveland, Canton, and Southern railroad, which ran southward from Glenwillow, then called Falls Junction, purchased the Hoodlebug line. Th ey extended their rails from Glenwillow to cross the Cleveland and Mahoning tracks just West of the Solon depot. Th ere goods could be transferred for shipment to either Chagrin or Cleveland. A switching tower was built at this junction to control rail traffi c and prevent collisions. Our museum archives have pictures showing the switching tower and other historic rail scenes. We can no longer commute by rail from Solon, the last train to follow this Cleveland-Warren route was the Wheeling and Lake Erie Commuter in 1977. Remnants of the old rail system remain today which service our industrial area. Th ese tracks are used by the Wheeling and Lake Erie and the Cleveland Commercial Railroads.

Visit the Solon Historical Society website at www.solonhistoricalsociety.org for more information.

IʼVE BEEN WORKING ON THE RAILROAD: SOLONʼS EARLY RAILROAD CONNECTION

The Solon Historical Societyis excited to update and re-issue two books

written to highlight Solon's history...

Available at the Solon Historical Society or by calling Society President Robert Shimits at 440-248-3586.

The PictorialHistory ofSolon, OhioThis 120 page hard-coverbook gives a brief writtenhistory followed by acollection of vintagephotos ending in 2010.

Pioneers withWeb Feet

This book isconsidered the official

written history ofSolon up to 1970.

2010 is the 40thanniversary of the

first printing.

Makes a Great Gift for the Holidays!

only $29.99 eachBrown, leather-bound Limited Edition copies

$49.99 each

The Solon Spotlight / 7

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DUFFY’S FLOWERS AND PLANTSLet Duff y’s help you express your love this Valentine’s Day! We have many

ideas to choose from. Our quality long-stemmed roses enhanced with lilies, alstromeria, stock and snapdragons or other fl owers of your choice are always

available and backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Stop in today!!!

Duff y’s Flowers & Plants33551 Aurora RoadSolon, Ohio 44139

M-F 8am - 7pmSat 9am - 6pm

440-248-88801-800-453-8339


By Danielle Rose CVJS is a volunteer organization in northeast Ohio. Its sole mission is to provide professionals in career transition with job-search training, networking contacts, job leads, keynote speakers, resources, and knowledge to enhance their own job search. Th e group was founded in April, 2002, by Jim Grant and Greg Reynolds. Since its inception, over 5,100 job seekers have been helped, and there are 50-100 people who attend each meeting. I decided to be a fl y on the wall at one of their meetings. I found myself enthusiastically cheering on, those who stood up and told of their own recent success stories. Mr. Grant and Mr. Reynolds had a wealth of knowledge about job hunting and did not have the typical answers that I had expected. Did you know that only 1-3% of people will get an interview by attending job fairs, going through a Human Resources department or applying online? CVJS has the answer: they can help you identify the hiring manager and encourage you to go to them directly. Th ey often stress how networking is the most important way to job search, and how everyone needs to continue networking even after landing a job. Over the last 10 years, the founders have accrued millions of linked-in network connections, and they can link you to their connections. Th ey also instruct participants to write a 75-100

word bio on themselves that is added to a list that is sent each month to 150-200 hiring managers, HR recruiters and external recruiters.

CHAGRIN VALLEY JOB SEEKERS (CVJS): NOT ALL WHO WANDER ARE LOST

ONLY 1-3% OF PEOPLE WILL GET AN INTERVIEW BY ATTENDING JOB FAIRS, GOING THROUGH A

HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT OR APPLYING ONLINE.

CHAGRIN VALLEY JOB SEEKERS (CVJS): Here’s a list of some of the great services CVJS off ers to job seekers:

• All members are connected through an e-mail network.• Networking opportunities are encouraged at meetings and through an e-mail network.• Job leads by e-mail.• Job leads extended from recruiters at the meetings from local companies with openings.• Keynote speakers at the meetings who talk about various aspects of the job search.• Participation in the CVJS Bio Program, which monthly distributes job-seeker information to over 200 people in the hiring process in northeast Ohio.• Access to the CVJS Working People List (WPL), which provides contact information for over 7,000 employed people in northeast Ohio.• Access to over 65 electronic documents at the CVJS website that cover a wide variety of job-search subjects.• Two software products (one is MS Excel; the other is MS Access) that help a job seeker keep track of the people, employers and jobs that he/she encounters in his/her job search.• One-on-one mentoring.• Professional resume reviewers.

Membership is open to any job seeker who attends their meetings, and all materials and services are free. Meetings are held at the Pioneer Memorial Presbyterian Church, 35100 Solon Road, Solon, Ohio, at 7:30 PM on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, unless it is a national holiday, or the fourth Monday in December. Could you use a free job-search support group for professionals? Go to their website www.chagrinvalleyjobseekers.org. I would also encourage you to visit Jim Grant’s blog at jimgrant1.wordpress.com/cvjs/. Jim Grant published a book on the job search titled “Get the Job (and Compensation) You Want.” You can learn helpful tips about the process of the job hunt and land one that is right for you.

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on Around Townto fi nd some of the local events around Solon

onPage 24


School News...

WWW.SOLONLIGHTNING.COM

MEET THE SOLON LIGHTNING

NIGHTS

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SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCES

FOR STUDENTS IN ELEMENTARY THROUGHHIGH SCHOOL/COLLEGE

8th Annual Summer Camp Convention Solon Community Center 35000 Portz Parkway Saturday, March 3, 2012 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

All in one location meet directors and fi nd the perfect summer experience for

your students, families or school groups. Free admission and open to the public.

HTTP://SUMMERCAMPCONVENTIONS.WEB.OFFICELIVE.COM

***For more information or to reserve a table call 216-906-1654 or

email [email protected].

SOLON MUSIC PARENTS

Solon Music Parents is a non-profi t organization that supports instrumental music programs at Solon High School, Solon Middle School, and Orchard Middle School. Membership is automatic for all parents of instrumental music students, and meetings are open to all who are interested. Funds raised through concession operations, Tag Day, Market Day, the pasta dinner, and other events support the bands, orchestras and Starlette drill team with uniform and equipment purchases, trip subsidies, and other activities. Looking for a fun-fi lled and tasty way to spend a cold winter’s evening with your family? We have just the answer. It’s time for their 32nd Annual Pasta Dinner featuring great music from our very own high school and middle school jazz bands! Th e Annual Pasta Dinner is scheduled for Th ursday, February 16th, 2012 from 5 to 7 pm in the Solon High School cafeteria. Th roughout the evening, our Solon musicians will provide the perfect backdrop for a wonderful evening of food and entertainment. Have fun participating in their silent auction/raffl e (more information to follow). When you’ve had your fi ll of music and food, head to the auditorium to purchase tickets to see High School Students in the One Act Plays – student directed and performed short skits that can be quite funny and always entertaining.

Tickets for the Pasta Dinner are as follows: Pre-sale Tickets-Adults $6.00Students/Seniors: $5.00Children under 5: $3.00Tickets at the Door-Adults: $7.00Students/Seniors: $6.00Children under 5: $3.00To purchase pre-sale tickets, please contactLori Pitzer at 542-0234 or [email protected] by February 6th.

By Kamna Jain Solon Lego League teams brought home many awards from the District competition held in Akron on January 14 and 15. Five teams represented Solon in the competition at the University of Akron, which was the second level of competition. Th ese teams were invited to Districts after competing at the Regional tournaments. Th e Monster Maniax, a team of eight sixth graders earned the 2nd championship title and was invited to compete in Dayton at the State Championship. Th is is the Monster Maniax’s second invitation to the State Championship. Th e Flaming Narwhals won the Strategy and Innovation Award as well as the Robot Award for the highest scoring robot. Th e Gang of 8 earned the Research Award while the team 7+1 won the Judges Award. Th e Awesome Eyeballs also won a Judges Award, while their coach, Nadine Otterman took home the Coaches Award. Nadine helped inspire and form ten Lego League teams in Solon. Solon has 23 teams participating

in Lego League, the most number of teams participating from one city in Northeast Ohio. In the spring of 2010, the MIT Alumni Club of Northeast Ohio, led by Otterman, helped inspire and form ten Lego League teams in Solon. Th e coaches and parents of those original ten teams founded the Solon Engineers’ Club (SEC) in January 2011. Th e SEC’s mission is to inspire students to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and to become gracious, professional leaders. Th e Solon Engineers’ Club FIRST engineering teams’ research began in September when FIRST released the Food Factor challenge internationally. Th is year, the teams each select a food safety concern and work to discover an innovative solution to that concern. Teams also compete in a robotics game, which requires them to design and build a Lego robot to complete specifi ed missions. Th e third team requirement challenges them to solve a team problem without their coach, and present their work on the core values of gracious professionalism, teamwork, and discovery.

Hats off to Solon lego league Teams

TIME TO THINK ABOUT SUMMER CAMP!

Th e Summer Camp Conventions involve directors, counselors, and camp representatives who come to exhibit their day, residential, or international programs. Here, they can converse with parents, students, and educators about their summer camps, which are located throughout the US. Th ere are a variety of activities to choose from, along with diff erent sessions of time (2, 4, 6, or 8 weeks.) Parents get the opportunity to learn about each individual camp, and children get the opportunity to fi nd which one will fi t their own personal interests. Th e representatives are camp professionals and advocates for quality, developmental summer experiences for children of all ages (elementary through college students). Th eir goal is to provide a unique, exciting, fun, and safe summer program to enrich campers’ lives, provide positive development, promote healthy risk-taking, and create unforgettable memories and relationships to last a lifetime. Th ere is free admission and open to the public. A website is also available for viewing at http://summercampconventions.web.offi celive.com. If interested in exhibiting, please call (216)-906-1654 or email [email protected].

Th e meeting to form teams is held in early spring. More information can be found at www.solonstem.org.


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Is it Spring Yet?Cabin Fever Remedies

By Julie Selby, Solon Courier writer.

We are in the midst of it now in Solon. With snowdrifts the size of small elephants and temperatures only in the high twenties, what can we do in northeast Ohio but huddle inside and wait for spring? In a couple of months, the sun will be warm, and our lawns will be green. Until then, cabin fever will be spreading like crazy. Or will it? We picked out the best winter activities to keep you sane and out of the house during the last few weeks of winter.

Boston Mills/Brandywine/Polar BlastOh, the weather outside is frightful, but the ski slopes are so delightful! Boston Mills and Brandywine are the closest resorts that off er skiing, snowboarding and snowblading. Th ere are six slopes at Boston Mills and nine at Brandywine, both which have skill levels ranging from beginner to advanced. For the experienced skier or boarder, there are trick parks with mo-guls, jumps and much more! Right next door to Brandywine is the giant tubing hill, Polar Blast. With 20 tubing lanes more than three football fi elds in length-—it’s sure to be a good time. Interested in taking to the slopes? BMBW Prices: All-Day tickets $41, with rental $71Polar Blast: All-Day tickets $59

Beachwood MallEnjoy watching winter go by inside? Paying Beachwood Place mall a visit just might be your cup of tea. Th e mall consists of many, many stores including; Abercrombie and Fitch, Th e Lego Store, American Eagle Outfi tters, H&M, Avalon Spa and

Nails, Finish Line and Forever 21. During your shopping excursion, you can stop and enjoy a cappuccino from Starbucks or a warm pretzel from Auntie Anne’s. Other mall favorites include Subway, Asian Chao, Chick-Fil-A and Th e Mad Greek. Out of money? Well, it’s also a great place to play hide-and-seek.Hours: 10am-9pm Monday-Saturday, 12pm-6pm Sunday

Shadow Lake Sledding HillDid Boston Mills tickle your fancy, yet you already spent your holiday money? Shadow Lake coasting hill in the Metroparks is one hill in the area that off ers a great thrill. Steep, long and equipped with a fi re pit, it’s an exciting place for those tight on cash. Bring your crew and a giant infl atable tube, and you’ll make memories to last. Don’t have a giant infl atable tube? Plastic sleds usually go for under $20 at any Walmart, Marc’s or Target. Even without a sled or tube, there’s plenty of space at the bottom of the hill for holding a massive snowball fi ght or building a huge snowman.Directions: Take Solon Road through the industrial park and make a left on Hawthorne Parkway. Th e hill is on the right.

Get-together ActivitiesWhen all you have is the company of your friends, there are still plenty of things to do to keep happy during the cold weather. If you’re a gamer, there’s the standard “Call of Duty” and Doritos kind of night. Th en there’s a Super Smash Bros. Brawl tournament. You can also throwback and play the classic “Dance Dance Revolution Extreme 2” or go 80’s with classic “Galaga.” As for movies, there’s always a Disney movie marathon or the three-day-long Harry Potter movie marathon (attempt at your own risk.). Scary movies such as “Th e Descent” or “Th e Blair Witch Project” are also a plus. Being in the company of good friends can keep your winter woes at bay.

Is it Spring Yet?

Why I Love Valentine’s DayBy Julia Rose, Arthur Road 3rd Grader

The roses, the candy, the love notes, just divine,

Heart shaped Valentines and fl owers in a Vase,

Rosy red cheeks and chocolates to Eat! But one thing I’d like to know is will

A secret admirer come give me a treat?


Health and Wellness...

We’ve all been there at some point or another...and some of us are there right now. We’ve welcomed 2012 and made commitments (promises?) to ourselves to get in better shape this year; be mindful of what we eat; exercise more; lose weight. Goals have been set – some obtainable and others maybe not so much. Regardless of where you are in the creation of your plan to make 2012 the year to focus on your health, here are a few tips we feel will help defi ne your bottom line. Th ere is no magic involved in these guidelines...just an increase in awareness and development of a plan that is designed for YOU and is obtainable.

Tip #1. NUTRITION-FUEL YOUR BODYTake the time to keep track of what you are putting in your mouth. You will be amazed at how helpful this tip is in creating an awareness of what you eat. Carry around a small notebook, log your food on your phone memo app, scribble it down on a piece of paper, but regardless of how you decide to do it, write EVERYTHING down. Don’t judge yourself; rather just track your eating habits to start with.

Th is helps you get an accurate picture of the truth about

intake. Trust us, you might be surprised! Th is small step will create an awareness of what you are actually eating and

will help to paint the picture of your nutritional strengths and

weaknesses. Th ere are several free on-line tracking programs that make this very simple (Lose It, Livestrong, My Fitness Pal). Feel free to check any of these websites out and you are bound to have your eyes opened!

Tip #2. FITNESS-MOVE YOUR BODYFind a moment (even if it’s just 5 minutes!) to plan your exercise for the week. Sit down with your computer, smartphone, calendar, whatever it is you use and PLAN! What do you plan? Plan a time every day that you will move more. Th at could be walking around the block, trying a class at your gym, getting on a dusty treadmill in your basement for 15 minutes; but whatever it is, have it be something MORE than what you have been doing!

Tip #3. ACCOUNTABILITYLet’s face it – when left to our own devices, we often take the easier path. On our own, we are much more inclined to hit the “snooze” button one more time, stay in bed on that windy day, trade our workout clothes for jeans and follow the “I’ll work out twice tomorrow” mentality. Find a friend, co-worker, family member or an online program and create an accountability system that works for you. It is much harder to let someone else down than it is to let ourselves down. Don’t leave that friend outside standing in the cold alone – get out there and join them. We all know that misery loves company...and hopefully your misery will soon be traded for the benefi ts you will reap. After looking over these three tips, you may be shaking your head and saying “Th at’s too much for me!” If you feel that way, don’t quit before you start; rather, just pick one to try. Once you’ve gotten the hang of the fi rst, add a second tip. As your progress starts to show, trust us, you’ll want to put all three together and see where it gets you...and we are sure it will get you somewhere GOOD! Total Customized Fitness, LLC is proud to provide healthy living and fi tness articles on a monthly basis to Th e Solon Spotlight. If you have fi tness questions or concerns, feel free to email your issues to admin_tcfi [email protected] and we will do our best to answer them!

A NEW YEAR, A NEW YOU.... Unsure Where to start?

Fitness tips to help you on your way!

Th e boxes of candy line the shelves at the stores. It seems everywhere we turn, there is more chocolate! Th e good news is you can indulge, chocolate is better for you than you think! When consumed in moderation,DARK CHOCOLATE has many health benefi ts. Th ese benefi ts include:

1. It can help prevent heart disease. Like tea, dark chocolate contains fl avonoids, which are compounds that act as antioxidants. Flavonoids protect cells from harmful molecules—called free radicals—that are produced when the body breaks down food or is exposed to sunlight or smoke. Free radicals can cause cell damage that can lead to heart disease. Flavonoids can also lower blood pressure and reduce LDL cholesterol (i.e., the bad cholesterol) by up to 10 percent.

2. It can improve your mood. Dark chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that bring on feelings of pleasure. It also contains the chemical serotonin, which acts as an anti-depressant.

3. It can protect your skin. German researchers found that the fl avonoids in dark chocolate absorb UV light, help protect and increase blood fl ow to the skin, and improve skin’s hydration and complexion.

Th ough there are health benefi ts, delicious dark chocolate is also high in calories. Limit yourself to just a few ounces a day (no more than three), experts say. Information obtained from http://www.rd.com.

No need to skip the chocolate this valentine’s day...

the dark chocolatethat is!

Health Benefits include:

•DETOXIFICATION

•PAIN RELIEF

•SKIN PURIFICATION

•WEIGHT LOSS

•LOWERS BP

•IMPROVES CIRCULATION

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TCF continues to partner with The Solon Spotlight to offer our readers a chance to participate in Solon’s Biggest WINNER Contests. We will follow three Solon residents for a 90-day period and document their fi tness results in the coming months. There is still t ime to be considered for this program – contact TCF at admin_tcfi [email protected] or tcfi [email protected] to enter or get additional information.


By Melissa Fitzgerald

You might think you’re making a healthy choice when you pick diet soda over regular, but studies are showing very much the opposite is true. “Th e more diet soda a person drinks, the more likely they are to gain weight,” said Epidemiologist Sharon Fowler of the University of Texas Health Science Center. Fowler conducted a study on soda consumption for the American Diabetes Association. Research has found that the artifi cial sweeteners in diet soda may actually alter brain chemistry and change the way our bodies metabolize food. While your taste buds sense sweet, there is no calorie intake along with it. Th is tricks the brain into thinking it needs to consume more calories to balance it out. Without realizing it, your body craves and holds on to more calories from other meals to make up for the loss. As the consumption of artifi cially sweetened foods has risen over the last 30 years, so has the rate of obesity. More than one in four Americans are obese, meaning they have a body mass index (BMI) above 30. Obesity is now edging out smoking as the number one preventable killer in the U.S. causing roughly 400,000 deaths each year. Artifi cial sweeteners have also been associated with seizures, vascular changes and cellular changes in animal studies. “When patients frequently complain of brain fog, memory problems and itching of unknown etiology, the fi rst thing I ask them is how much artifi cial sweetener are you ingesting?” said local obesity expert, Sara Stein, MD. “Maybe a spoonful of sugar would be less harmful.” Dr. Stein recently

opened a clinic in Beachwood off ering a medical approach to weight management and chronic disease reversal. “When you ingest artifi cial sweeteners, hunger is stimulated because of insulin response in the brain,” said Christine Spiroch, a Solon resident and Physician Assistant with the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute. “Your body

produces insulin, thinking that sugar and real calories are on the way. Th e end result is that a

person can develop insulin resistance, which has serious health consequences, including weight gain,” she said. Another study by Purdue University revealed that rats on diets containing the artifi cial sweetener saccharin, a popular sweetener in diet soda, overate and gained more weight than rats given food with real sugar. Over time, your body may be fooled to believe that other sweet foods don’t have enough calories – even if they were sweetened with real sugar – and loaded with fat. Your brain may not send out the “full” signal that you’ve had enough until it’s too late. Th is leads to prolonged problems of overeating and weight gain. Is there ever a reason to drink artifi cial

sweetened drinks? “Sometimes,” said Dr. Stein. “An occasional diet soda can be enjoyable as a treat. Th e issue is frequent or daily consumption of something that has zero nutrient value, and is potentially chemically toxic.” Spiroch said if it has to be soda, choose products made with real sugar, avoiding high fructose corn syrup. “Th e human body knows how to process sugar; it doesn’t quite know what to do with the artifi cial sweeteners. Water is best. If that seems too boring, try adding lemon to it or try fl avored seltzer waters or green tea.”

HOW CAN SOMETHING WITH ZERO CALORIES MAKE YOU FAT?

Home Instead Senior Care Foundation recently awarded a grant to the Solon Senior Center

America’s Trusted, Non-Medical Sourceof Companionship and Home Care for the Elderly

www.homeinstead.com

Call us today at 440-914-1400 to schedule a free in-home consulation

•Companionship • Meal Preparation •Medication Reminders • Light Housekeeping •Errands/Shopping • Bathing/Personal Care •Dressing/Grooming •Respite care for caregivers

A suggestion? A story to share? Announcing an event?

Email us at [email protected] We would love to hear from you!

During the winter months, do you every feel like you can’t stop scratching? Is your tight, itchy skin driving you crazy? Many of us suff er from dry skin in the middle of winter and using moisturizer doesn’t provide much relief. Here are some helpful hints on how to prevent and treat this common winter skin problem:

1. SHORTER SHOWERS Cut down your time in the shower. Hot water is very harsh and will eliminate moisture from being absorbed back into the skin. Shorter showers, using luke-warm water, will prevent your skin from being stripped of its essential oils.

2. MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZEAfter bathing or showering, dry off by patting skin gently with a towel and also applying lotion. Th is method needs

to be done within 3 minutes of drying off to keep moisture from leaving your skin. You should never rub your skin with a towel because it could make your dry skin worse. Use products that contain petroleum or glycerin for extra protection during the winter, especially for your hands and feet. Oils, such as coconut and baby oil, are also very helpful.

3. GLOVESWear gloves or mittens during the winter months to prevent your hands from becoming dry, chapped, and cracked. Moisturize your hands with a little lotion or oil before putting on your gloves and wear thin cotton gloves inside of them to hold in moisture.

4. SUNSCREENApply sunscreen to exposed areas of skin. Even if it’s cold outside, your skin still needs to be protected from the elements. By applying a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, you are saving your skin from being dried from the sun, wind and cold temperatures. Don’t forget to protect your lips!

5. HUMIDIFYIf you have a humidifi er, it is a great tool for soothing dry skin. Run it at night to keep your skin from drying out while you sleep.

Source: livestrong.com

How to Prevent Dry, Itchy Skin in the Winter

By Susan Grossberg


Entertainment...

By Danielle Rose

I have been a “groupie” of Avril Burg and her band, Run Avril Run, for years. She has such an energy on stage, and I couldn’t wait to interview her and pick her brain to fi nd out how she gives enough confi dence to children to be able to stand on a stage and sing with charisma and enthusiasm in front of a crowd. Avril and her band mate, Steve

Johnston, decided to start classes to teach kids how to sing and hold themselves on stage. Club Rock is a class for kids ages 4 to 16. While honing in on singing and perform-ing techniques, Club Rockers gain confi dence and self esteem that will benefi t them for life. By using songs that the children choose, they work on proper breathing, pitch control and vocal range. Th ey’ll also work on theatrical skills such as performing on a

stage, acting out songs, emoting the message of a song and jumping around and dancing, interacting with musicians and experi-encing the high of fronting a band.

1. What inspired you to start Club Rock?

When I was little, I LOVED to sing but was too terrifi ed to ever do it IN FRONT OF people! I had this inner-struggle of wanting to do it so desper-ately, but not having the

confi dence to do it for many reasons. As a kid, you A) don’t know if you’re good and people may laugh at you, and B) are concerned that others may feel you’re “showing off ,” and C) you don’t want other kids to think you take your-self too seriously. Overcoming that kind of insecurity for a child or adolescent is just almost insurmountable (It was for me!). And I never really DID overcome it as a child. I sang in the privacy of my own closet or basement, but did not

have the self-confi dence to ever sing in front of anyone other than my parents. As an adult, my husband gently pushed me to start my own band and get this “singing thing” out of my system. HE put my band together, and I commit-ted to a six-month run, and 13 years later, I can honestly say it’s still not out of my system. One of the performances that we (Run Avril Run) LOVE to do is Legacy Village. Th e fi rst time we played there, I was blown away by how many kids wanted to be on that stage with me and wanted to sing along and grab my microphone. I knew I was on to something big! Th ese are the kids that may otherwise never live out this pas-sion, but on MY stage, they feel safe. I wished I’d had that platform as a kid. From that Rock On (which turned into Club Rock) was born. I started in my living room, moved into the Boneyard and now my partner and I have our own place, the former Borders Books in Beachwood (La Place).

Interview with local Rock Star, Avril Burg

2. How do you help your young students get the confi dence to belt out songson a real stage?

First of all, I relate two thousand percent to what they go through in getting up on that stage. Th at helps a lot with just connecting with them, and that’s half the battle. I know that they wouldn’t be there if they didn’t want to be, so I totally empathize with that inner struggle. Some kids come ready to belt out a tune on day one. Th e ones that can’t look me in the eye or sing into a microphone without falling apart, THOSE are my challenges and I LOVE it! Our classes are all about peer support. While one child sings, usually the others are dancing and getting into the music as well. For the performer (child or adult performer), THAT alone helps tremendously with self-confi dence. It’s one thing to get on stage and feel shy, but once you see the rest of your peers dancing and already getting into it, it really brings

the performer OUT. I never pressure a student or make them feel like it’s something they HAVE to do. So many times I’ll have students who come in saying “I don’t want to sing,” and they’ve even cried and asked me not to “make them” sing at all. THOSE are my kids who by the end of my VERY FIRST CLASS are raising their hands and begging to go next. Th e key is NO PRESSURE. Again, they’re there because of their desire to sing. If they’re having that same inner struggle that I had as a kid, then I know that by the end of that class I’ll be dragging them OFF the stage! Had there been a Club Rock when I was a kid, I don’t even know what could have been for me. (On a side note, at each class we are working on vocal techniques and performance skills and making the Club Rockers understand the message of their song, so that they can sing “believably.” Since we are a class and are learning all of this WHILE having fun, many of the kids forget to be insecure. It’s a beautiful thing!)

3. How does your team of hair, make-up, clothing, choreography, voice, and music work together to give

students the real rock star experience?

It’s a blast! Oh, and let’s not forget about the Club Rock LIMO. We choose a class or two per “TOUR” (session) to send a limo to pick the kids

Johnston, decided to start classes to teach kids how to sing and hold themselves on stage. Club Rock is a class for kids ages 4 to 16. While honing in on singing and perform-ing techniques, Club Rockers gain confi dence and self esteem that will benefi t them for life. By using songs that the children choose, they work on proper breathing, pitch control and vocal range. Th ey’ll also work on theatrical skills such as performing on a

Solon Resident, Sarah Kalinowski,

singing at a Club Rock event.

the performer OUT. I never pressure a student or make them feel like it’s something they HAVE to do. So many times I’ll have students who come in saying “I don’t want

Solon Resident Zack Goldstein shows his talent on stage!

Ally Benjamin, of Solon, rockin the stage at a Club Rock event.

By Danielle Rose

stage, acting out songs, emoting the message of a song and jumping around and dancing, interacting with musicians and experi-encing the high of fronting a band.

1. What inspired you to start Club Rock?

When I was little, I LOVED to sing but was too terrifi ed to ever do it IN FRONT OF people! I had this inner-struggle of wanting to do it so desper-ately, but not having the

Mikayla Salomon, of Solon, showing her singing talents.

Inspiring confi dence and positive self-esteem in children

My 10-year-old daughter has been singing with Club Rock for a couple of years now. Aside from the obvious fun she has, performing on stage, fronting a live rock band with all of the lights and a crowd looking on, this has been an all-around wonderful experience. She exudes confi dence on stage and truly looks forward to Club Rock each week. Steve and Avril make the “rock star” experience one that allows these children to feel comfortable and more self-assured. Even my daughter’s teachers at school have commented on how comfortable she is getting up

and speaking in front of her friends and classmates. -Beth Kalinowski

20 / The Solon Spotlight The Solon Spotlight / 21 The Solon Spotlight / 21

Fun Valentine’s Day Facts

• The origin of Valentine’s Day dates back to the times of Roman Empire during the reign of Claudius II. Claudius was under the impression that single men turned out to be better soldiers because marriage hinders a man’s progress.

• In the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names from a bowl to see who their valentine would be. They would wear these names on their sleeves for one week. To wear your heart on your sleeve now means that it is easy for other people to know how you are feeling.

• In Medieval times, girls ate unusual foods on St Valentine’s Day to make them dream of their future husband.

• In some countries, a young woman may receive a gift of clothing from a prospective suitor. If the gift is kept, then it means she has accepted his proposal of marriage

• Richard Cadbury invented the first Valentine’s Day candy box in the late 1800s.

• About 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged in US each year. That’s the largest seasonal card-sending occasion of the year, next to Christmas.

• Worldwide, over 50 million roses are given for Valentine’s Day each year.

• In order of popularity, Valentine’s Day cards are given to teachers, children, mothers, wives, sweethearts and pets.

• California produces 60 percent of American roses, but the vast number sold on Valentine’s Day in the United States are imported, mostly from South America. Approximately 110 million roses, the majority red, will be sold and delivered within a three-day time period.

Information obtained from

www.stvalentinesday.org/valentines-day-fun-fact.html

up from their schools. Th eir friends all see them getting into the limo, and this is a lot of fun for them. Th en they get to the concert, and I have my hair and makeup people doing just that - their hair and makeup! Straightening and curling irons, fun make up (age appropriate always) and hair gel and tattoos for the boys. So that’s all about the “rock star experience.” As far as the choreography, voice, music.....once the kids have committed to their songs, the music goes to the Club Rock Band (made up primarily of my band, Run Avril Run) to learn. I have my choreographer come in for a few of the classes to teach back-up dances for anyone who wants to dance behind the singer in an upbeat song. Th e choreography is amazing (thanks to Kayla Yanish), and the kids have a blast! Towards the end of the TOUR, the live band comes in, and the kids get to run through their songs, with their back-up dancers, live band, etc. For my younger kids, during the concert they hear my voice through their stage monitors (Th e audience can’t hear me.) singing their songs to keep them on track.

4. How many students are typically in your classes?

A class can have as few as fi ve and as many as 15. I don’t let my classes getany larger than 15. At that point we start a wait list. Less than fi ve andyou lose that peer support that I think plays such a signifi cant role inbuilding self-confi dence

5. What are the typical ages of your students?

We have ages 4 to 17. Each session is

diff erent as to how many of any oneage group we have. We’ve had a few sessions where our Varsity classes(teenagers) were our largest. Th en we had a session where our 4-5 year oldswere our hugest classes. Our most consistent VERY LARGE classes tend to fall in the 8- to 11-year-old range.

6. Can you describe a rewarding time for you (either with a student or with your Club Rock Cares) where you felt touched or positively aff ected by thatexperience?

I honestly don’t even know where to begin. With Club Rock Cares, my biggest message to my kids is “You were born with this gift. You have a responsibility to use it for good,” AND what an amazing feeling that you don’t have to donate millions of dollars to make a diff erence in this world! Th ese KIDS have the opportunity to do something they LOVE and bring happiness to people and dollars and awareness to important causes. I drillthat into my Club Rockers all the time when we decide which charity our next concert should raise funds for. I think it makes them feel important and that they can DO something at their young ages. It’s empowering. BUT – for an individual story, I have this: I had a group of girls sign up together in my Varsity class. Th ey were in 9th and 10th grade. One of them was incredibly shy and wouldn’t even use a microphone until the very last class and clearly just signed up to be with her friends. Th e sound of her own voice in a mic startled her. She was so adorable and REALLY could sing! Her friends told me that culturally it

was just not her thing, but that the family has become “Americanized” and was hoping their kids could come out of their shells a bit, which is why they agreed to let her do my class. Anyway, this girl would send me e-mails saying “Please don’t be disappointed in me. I’m just too shy. I do want to sing, but I can’t.” She was comfortable enough with me to reach out, so I knew she wasn’t going to be my fi rst Club Rocker to NOT get on that stage. I worked with her a little one-on-one after her class each week. At the concert, she came to me in tears and told me she was not getting up. I died inside. I didn’t want to push though because that would certainly backfi re. I told her “no pressure. Don’t get up. If you change your mind, let me know.” She hung out with me until the end of the concert, and at the very end I turned to her and said “What do you think? Can I announce you? Your choice - but the concert is over otherwise.” She nodded YES, which blew me away. When I tell you that she BROUGHT DOWN THE HOUSE, it is an understatement! She was like POSSESSED on that stage! You would NEVER KNOW this girl had the slightest bit of stage fright, lack of self-confi dence, etc. She was out of this world and told me afterwards, it changed her life! Her parents and friends literally were crying tears. Th ey were all in total disbelief. But she was my girl! She knocked ‘em dead! (And pulled the same WOW performances at her next two concerts as my student!)

Check out Avril and the amazing Club Rock at www.clubrockcleveland.com and also consider them for parties of all kinds, for all ages.

I believe that all three of my daughters, Danielle (13), Melanie (10) and Samantha (8) gained an enormous amount of confi dence and presence from being involved in Avril’s Club Rock program. My husband and I could not believe who we saw up on stage.

They were posed, enthusiastic and gregarious. They communicated with the instructors and band members in such a way that surprised us and made us proud. We are lucky to have such a caring and enthusiastic person like Avril in our midst.

- Stephanie Chisling


Winter can often pose a variety of fashion conundrums. It is so easy to just go for comfort when it is freezing outside, and it can be tough to bundle up and layer without looking sloppy. Footwear can also be tricky because we all want to look fashionable, but there is nothing stylish about slipping on ice, so it is important to fi nd a shoe with a little traction. I like to stick to a uniform of skinny jeans in the winter, because they allow me to wear more volume (which equates to more warmth) on the top. A narrower jean also looks great either tucked into fl at boots, or with boots with a platform or heel, which makes them an easy and obvious choice. If you are the type to get cold easily, I would start with a close-fi tting tee or tank as a base layer for the top. It will be easy to layer on top of this and will provide some good insulation, and bring relief from rougher textures against the skin. Cashmere is my fi ber of choice for a sweater, as I fi nd it to be the softest and the warmest. Wool is good too, as long as it doesn’t make you itch. If you are trying to look chic or a little dressier, layer a simple blazer over your sweater. I often pair a simple cable knit cashmere with my favorite black blazer and a great scarf. For more casual looks, a tunic sweater looks fantastic with skinny jeans. Companies like J.Crew are a good starting point because they always have great sweater options in a variety of colors, styles and materials. As for footwear, I think a great riding boot is a must-have staple for any closet. I like Tory Burch’s because they come in great neutrals (black and chocolate are essential), and she does great variations every season. Another key winter footwear option is a boot with a little bit of a heel and some traction. Platforms are great because they add height but give you some stability. Th ere are tons of designers who do boots like this when the temperatures plummet. I am partial to a shearling-lined pair I purchased this fall by Hunter, but

try out lots of options to fi nd what is most comfortable for you. It is easy when it is cold and dreary to slip into a fashion rut and go for the cozy default outfi t. However, if you have the right pieces and are willing to put in a little bit of eff ort, you can look fantastic even when the temperature plummets.

Visit www.clevelandstylista.com

Leasing All Makes and Models of Automobiles and Trucks

26671 Renaissance ParkwayWarrensville Heights, OH 44128

Phone: (216) 581-0000, Fax: (216) 581-7063www.shakerautolease.com

Aaron Weisenberg Email: [email protected]

try out lots of options to fi nd what is most comfortable for

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Dubyak Connick Sammon Thompson & Bloom, LLC3401 Enterprise Parkway, Suite 205

Beachwood, Ohio 44122 (216) 364-0500

Looking Great when the COLD Hits!

Joey’s welcomes you to their new place in Solon to enjoy home-cooked Italian food at its fi nest. Th ey take great pride in the dishes that they prepare. Early every morning, fresh vegetables and meats are selected from Cleveland’s fi nest markets so that their meals are top quality. Th eir culinary expertise comes through in each bite. It is an authentic taste of Italy right here in Solon!

Joey’s opened on December 20, 2011 in Solon to accommodate its large customer base here. Over the years, not much has changed with Joey’s. Th ey try to keep the same atmosphere and friendly service as from the beginning, as well as the recipes their

customers love. Th eir family recipes are unchanged because as Michael Leonetti states, “You don’t mess with something that works great.” Th eir most popular dish is Chicken Marsala, made with sauteed chicken breasts, mushrooms, scallions, demi-glace and mozzarella. Call them and ask about their full-service special event catering or box lunch program perfect for offi ce lunches. Th ey welcome private parties too. Enjoy a family-style dinner without having

the trouble of cleaning your pots and pans!

Come and enjoy your old favorites or try something new today!

WELCOME JOEY’S TO THE NORTH SHOPPES

OF SOLON!

JOEY’S IS LOCATED AT 28500 MILES ROAD IN THE

NORTH SHOPPES OF SOLON. CALL 440.247.6085

clevelandstylista.com


Solon Music ParentsPasta Dinner, Jazz Band performances and Silent AuctionFebruary 16th, 20125-7pm In Solon High School CafeteriaPre-sale Tickets-Adults $6.00 Students/Seniors: $5.00 Children under 5: $3.00 Tickets at the Door-Adults: $7.00Students/Seniors: $6.00Children under 5: $3.00 To purchase pre-sale tickets, please contact Lori Pitzer at 542-0234 or [email protected] by February 6th.

Th e Great Big Home and Garden ShowFebruary 4-12IX CenterAdults: $14.00Seniors (65+ Mon-Th urs): $10.00Children Ages 6-12: $5.00Children (5 and under): FREE

www.greatbighomeandgarden.com to fi nd out how to get discounted tickets.

Solon Athletic Boosters FundraiserCome join the fun! Athletic Boosters annual fundraiser Sat. Feb. 11th @ Signature of Solon. 7:00-Midnight.Dinner, drinks, prizes, raffl es and dancing. Music by “Dirty Little Rock Stars”! All proceeds benefi t Solon School Athletics. Tickets: $65 before 1/31, $75 after. For ticket information or further inquiries, please email, Susette Even ([email protected]) or Cheryl Kresevic ([email protected])

Daddy/Daughter DanceK – 4 Grade Girls and their Dads Saturday, February 18, 6:30pm – 9:00pm Solon Community Center. $20.00 per daddy & his little girl Register at the community center, December 1 – February 4

NEW CLEVELANDERS CLUB is a social and philanthropic group ofwomen who have recently moved to the eastern suburbs. New member coff ee the fi rst Th ursday morning of each month. Visit our website at www.newclevelanderseast.com or call Betty at 330-342-4221 for more information

Remote Dance “My Dance Place” has a new home studio in Solon!32901 Station Street Suite #114Now enrolling! Check us out at www.RemoteDance.com for more info on class descriptions and programs available.

Th e Lion, the Witch and the WardrobeMarch 8 (7:00 pm), March 9 (7:30 pm) and March 10 (2:00 pm & 7:30 pm) at SCA. Tickets: $8.00

visit www.positivelycleveland.com for more fun ideas!

What’s going on around town...

classifi ed/Business DirectoryClothing/Accessories

Holly KitzmillerIndependent Director,

Th irty-One Giftswww.mythirtyone.com/hkitzmiller

[email protected](216)470-320

CollectiblesCash for collectibles,

buying coins, old signs, toys, telephones, and coin

operated machines.Call Bob

(216)410-5503

Exercise/FitnessCrossFit Nexus

Call for a FREE intro workout!CrossFitNexus.comExtraordinary results for everyday people!

www.CrossFitNexus.com(440) 773-0332

Food and BakeryHopeful Creations

Hope Stuart-Makofsky Owner & Founder

Hopeful Creations specializes in custom cakes and cupcakes

for your special occasion. [email protected]

(216) 870-6062

Stacy HojdarIndependent Consultant for Th e Pampered Chef

[email protected].

biz/stacyhojdar(330)405-9487

Pet Needs Need help with your furry

friend? We can help! Pet Walking and Visits Available.

Call Nicole and Susan at Happy Tailz

(216) 322-5634

Advertise your services here! Babysitters, bakers, party planners, crafters, tailoring, pet sitters, landscapers, painters, house cleaning services, for rent by owner, selling items,

job recruitment or anything that you want to advertise to the Solon community!

From the time I was little, I had been labeled “Little Miss Know It All” when off ering my parents advice and “Mother Superior” when instructing my Grandmother on the ways of the world. So when I was asked to write this column for Th e Spotlight, of course I thought that I would be a natural! So here it goes. Feel free to take my two cents and keep the change!

Dear Miss Know-It-All,Last year, my dear husband got me a dust-buster for Valentine’s Day. Although I did need a new one, this is not what I had envisioned for a special gift. How can I guide his gift buying for me without hurting his feelings, in order to get something more meaningful from him?

Signed,Hint, Hint

Dear Hint, Hint,We as women appreciate it when our men are creative and not predictable. We love personalized gifts and surprises. We want our men to understand what we want without us saying it. We expect our men to know our likes and dislikes and for them to give gifts which please us. We want them to pay attention or take note of what we like when we drop hints. THIS IS TOO MUCH TO EXPECT! Girl, lower those expectations and help him out. Make it easier on him. He is not a mind reader. Tell him to read this.

Women love gifts that can be showcased to family and friends from their signifi cant other. For the majority of women, red roses are the preferred way to say, “I love you.” Th ey should be sent to the woman’s workplace or another public venue. Jewelry that can be customized works too. Many women like making a wish list of beads or jewelry for the spouse to purchase on special occasions. Finally, good quality chocolate is always a winner.

Dear Miss Know-It-All,I gave birth to my beautiful daughter three months ago. Since I decided not to return to work, I am looking for ways to get out of the house and socialize with other parents who have little ones at home too. I miss adult interaction. My only language is baby talk.

Signed,Lady Gaga Goo Goo

Dear Lady Gaga Goo Goo,All mothers can relate to this. Let me tell that you that I have been there. Th ere are many options out there for moms nowadays. Several places have mommy-and-me classes. I just found out about a new place, Remote Dance. Th ey off er classes on Mondays for you and your tot. It’s called Custom Class for Tots Playgroup. Also, you can check the Solon Library’s website for all their story times based on the age of your child. Additionally, the Solon Early Childhood PTA (SECPTA) is a fantastic organization to check out. It is for the parents of preschool- age children (birth – 5), regardless of what school the child will attend. Expectant parents are also welcome. Th ey always welcome new members from Solon and the surrounding communities. If you are the parent of a preschool- age child or infant, they have social activities, playgroups, sports and nights out for parents, all geared for you. Finally, the Solon Rec Center off ers a new Stroller Fitness class for moms on Mondays at 10:30 a.m.

Please mail all questions ANONYMOUSLY to Miss K.I.A.

P.O. Box 391532Solon, OH 44139

Honest, Real Answers to your latest questions


By Kamna Jain

I have to admit something, I love reality TV. Not all of it, but I watch a lot of the shows. It started because I was having anxiety after watching the news or watching some crime show. So I ventured into the world of reality TV. I know it isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but I think the reason it has fl ourished is that it appeals to the basic curiosity that we all have. We want to know about the inner workings of people’s lives and get the scoop on their drama. Now, I know that most of this isn’t really “real,” it is either staged, or situations are coerced. But it is fun either way. In watching the shows and fl ipping channels, I have learned a few things:

1. Most times simplicity will win out over gimmicks. Competition shows like Bravo’s Top Chef and Food Network’s Cupcake Wars, or even Chopped, have shown over and over that the fi nal product is judged on taste, not necessarily how fancy it was. Th e more ingredients they use, the more likely they are to be eliminated. Th is lesson can most defi nitely be applied to life. Th e more complicated we make our day-to-day life; the harder it is to see the prize.

2. If you are going to go through a diffi cult team challenge, you better be able to work with your teammates. Many times teams on Th e Amazing Race, and again Top Chef, have shown that the lack of teamwork can be any team’s downfall. I am not sure who I would pick to be my partner if I were to go on the Amazing Race. It would defi nitely have to be someone who could tolerate my frustrations at things not going according to plan. Th is situation has probably hindered many offi ce projects because of not liking or understanding the people whom you have had to work with.

3. Speak Up! We often have moments like the aforementioned team challenges where our ideas aren’t heard, and therefore we feel frustrated. Our idea could have won, or at least if we felt acknowledged, we would have participated with more enthusiasm. Not only in team challenges, but on other shows, like the Real Housewives series, many times when things are not said, this often creates misunderstandings. On those shows, when one of the women is asked to clarify a situation, she doesn’t speak and this leads to more drama in the end, which of course we love.

4. Don’t be a hypocrite, you will get caught. When everything these people do is recorded, they have to be careful of what they say and do because it will come back to haunt them. On the Real Housewives of Orange County, Tamara kept interfering in Gretchen’s business, but then when the shoe was on the other foot; she slapped a gag order on Jenna for doing the same thing. Th ese moments are real life because we often choose one path of behavior, but then when the situation happens to us, we change our attitude. If someone is paying attention, we will get caught.

5. Stay focused on the task; don’t get distracted by the chaos around you. On the Top Model show, the models live together and compete in modeling challenges to win the Top Model prizes. Th e problem usually arises when these girls get caught up in the cattiness and

get distracted from their goal. I understand they are young; however, the ones who stay focused usually are successful. At the same time, the girls who let themselves get caught up in their own ego, usually lose also for the same reason, they got distracted, by themselves.

6. One over-the-top dramatic meltdown will live on forever. Th e reason we love these shows is for the drama. We love the fi ghts, the table fl ipping, the name calling, the sabotaging, and the behind-the-back talking. Th ese are the things that make these shows interesting. On the fl ip side, these are the things that live on in infamy. When Th eresa from the Real Housewives of New Jersey fl ipped the table ending a perfectly interesting “discussion,” the only thing people remembered was the table fl ipping. Th at clip was shown over and over again. People don’t often remember the winners; they remember the ones who fl ipped out. On the very fi rst Survivor, Richard Hatch ran around naked and went to jail for tax evasion, that is what he will be remembered for, not for the fact that he won. Reality TV may be a fad or it may be here to stay, who knows, but these are real people. And their drama makes our lives seem so normal. We defi nitely wouldn’t put ourselves in these situations unless, of course, it was fun and profi table. So, until someone comes knocking on my door with an off er for Real Housewives of Solon, I will keep watching and be entertained by someone else’s drama, and heed the lessons of the tube.

LIFE LESSONSFROM REALITY TV

Real Thoughts Real People... Seen Out

and About around Solon

Will Tsironis takes a break from sledding to pose for a picture. Nikki Roettger and Ella can’t

wait to enjoy the ride.Michael Tsironis is carving the snow with his snowboard.

Dina and Joe Shaner

brought Austin, Ryan,

Nicole and Cade out to enjoy the snow.

Even Th under the dog enjoys

sledding!

Nicky Tsironis is all set to go!

28 / The Solon Spotlight

What happens when a hospital thinks like a patient?

A whole new way of thinking.

There are less walls, and more windows. Bigger

views and shorter, easier-to-manage walkways.

And the kind of patient suites that are large

enough to house state-of-the-art technology,

a team of nationally recognized doctors and

more importantly, one’s entire family.

Welcome to a whole new way of wellness.

Welcome to the ultimate healing environment.

At University Hospitals, our mission is you.

State-of-the-art technology, warm

colors and curved architecture make this

hospital feel more like a five-star hotel.

UH Ahuja Medical Center is considered

in-network for all major insurance

plans in the region. Please visit

UHAhuja.org/insurance

to view a complete list

of insurance plans.

UHAhuja.org1-866-UH4 -CARE 1-866 - 844 -2273

Located at I-271 and Harvard Road in Beachwood, Ohio

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