Browse Interviews

Edward Kovacic, former Police Chief with the Cleveland Police Department, discusses his involvement investigating the assassination plot against Mayor Dennis Kucinich in 1978. He discusses how the CPD found out about the case, his investigation of the plot, his interactions with the assassin, "The Old Man," and why the investigation ended without an arrest. Other topics include his beginnings with the police department, the Maryland State Police, Dennis Kucinich's relationship with the CPD,…

Bill Jirousek, a representative of the Rusin Cultural Garden, discusses how an ethnic group establishes a new garden, the steps in the application process, and the stages of garden formation. He also discusses a new sense of professionalism and organization in the Cultural Garden Federation as it pertains to the Design and Preservation Committee.

Alfonso D'Emilia, a representative of the Italian Cultural Garden, discusses the history of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. He discusses the gardens that are in a formative state, the importance of heritage. There is also a discussion about the Italian Cultural Garden, from vandalism and future plans, to its inspiration, founders, and sculpture. The interview ends with a brief history about the ethnic enclave of Little Italy.
Poor sound quality.

George Parras, President of Cultural Gardens Federation, describes the history and upkeep of Cleveland's Cultural Gardens. As President, Mr. Parras believes the gardens exemplify an enduring message of peace. He discusses how he became President of the gardens, establishing a new garden, festivals within the gardens, and trying to recieve national landmark status from the federal government. Topics include safety, world peace, and preserving the Doan Brook.
Poor sound quality.

In this short interview, Lenone McCaslin discusses safety within Cleveland's Cultural Gardens. She recollects on her childhood memories at the Cultural Gardens, theft and violence in the gardens, and her thoughts on restoration.
Poor sound quality.

Ben S. Stefanski II, of the Polish Cultural Garden, recollects on his involvement in Cleveland's Cultural Garden. He discusses his earliest memories of the Cultural Gardens, the importance of the Polish Cultural Garden in particular, flowers and layout of the Cultural Gardens, and the creation of busts within the Polish Cultural Garden. Other topics include his family history, vandalism and theft in the gardens, and the uniqueness of the Cultural Gardens.
Poor sound quality.

Andrew Chakalis, project coordinator for the Cleveland Cultural Gardens and Greek Cultural Garden delegate, discusses the restoration of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. He discusses how and why gardens are being restored, future plans for the gardens, and the city's involvement with the gardens as a whole. Other topics include how he got involved with the gardens, landscape within the Greek Cultural Garden, and community involvement in the gardens.
Poor sound quality.

Lena Pogrebinski, a Ukranian immigrant who came to the United States in 1991, discusses her involvement in the Ukranian Cultural Garden. Coming to the United States as a political refugee, Ms. Pogrebinki describes her family's journey from Ukraine to the United States. She discusses how she came to the United States, why her family left Ukraine, and why her family came to Cleveland. Ms. Pogrebinki goes on to describe how she became involved with the Ukrainian Cultural Garden, what she does at…

Anthony Yen discusses the history of the Chinese Cultural Garden, from its planning to its completion. Mr. Yen describes the trials and tribulations in obtaining the land and the drive to have the gardens become a national landmark designation. Other topics include the fiolage within the Chinese Cultural Garden, future plans of the garden, and vandalism.

In this interview, Jeff Davis discusses his role as delegate to the African American Cultural Garden. Mr. Davis touches on how he became involved with the gardens, groups involved with the garden, and what the gardens represent as a whole. He then goes on to discuss the obstacles for the African American Cultural Garden, how those obstacles can be met, and why there are no busts within the garden. Other topics include the history, present state, and future plans for the garden.

In this short interview, Georgia Pappas, a first generation Greek immigrant, discusses her early memories of Cleveland. She recalls going to the West Side Market, visiting department stores, and shopping at boutiques on East 6th Street. She never knew of Cleveland's Cultural Gardens until 1996. Ms. Pappas discusses her first visit, why she was there, and who she was with. The interview ends with a discussion about her love for both Greece and the United States.

Cordell Edge, a delegate of the African American Garden, discusses her involvement with the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. Ms. Edge describes how she got her start in the African American Cultural Garden, what her role is within the Cultural Garden Federation, and how the garden was created. Other topics include her memories of the gardens and how the neighborhood surrounding the gardens has changed over time.

The manager of the Rockefeller Greenhouse, a building located in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, Perrin Carpenter describes the duties of her position and the day to day activities at the greenhouse. Ms. Carpenter also discusses the different entities involved with the care and maintenance of the gardens, financial and horticultural responsibilities, the planning of future gardens, and special events within the garden boundaries.

Dr. John Grabowski, history professor at Case Western Reserve University, discusses how the issues of World War II and the Cold War are emulated through Cleveland's Cultural Gardens. According to Dr. Grabowski, the gardens became a symbolic and physical manifestation of the pluralism within the United States during the 1940s and 1950s. Dr. Grabowski also discusses the creation of multiple gardens, the riots and vandalism that took place within the gardens in the 1960s, Cold War ideology, and…

Erika Puussaar and Rita Tubalkain reflect on their time working in the Estonian Cultural Garden. Both coming to the United States in the early 1950s, Ms. Puussaar and Ms. Tubalkain discuss their memories of Estonia. They describe what it was like to be an immigrant coming to the United States, early jobs taken, and surviving an unfamiliar landscape. Ms. Puussaar and Ms. Tubalkain also discuss their involvement in Cleveland's Cultural Gardens, problems with funding, statuaries in the Estonian…

Jim Cull, delegate of the Finnish Cultural Garden, discusses his role in the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. Mr. Cull is chair of a development committee responsible for trying to find ways to increase funding and membership for the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. As delegate to the Finnish Cultural Garden, Mr. Cull discusses statues within the garden, future plans for garden, and the need for local support from the community at large. There is also a discussion about vandalism, neglect, and development…

Bill Jirousek discusses the guidelines and perameters for establishing a garden within the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. He explains the difference between officially established gardens and the gardens in the process of establishing themselves. Mr. Jirousek mentions the importance of fundraising and safty within the gardens toward their future success. There is a discussion about the guidelines each garden must abide by when deliberating about new sculptures and the steps necessary for an ehtnic…

The oral history interview with Olga Naugle captures her memories and experiences growing up in the Tremont area of Cleveland, Ohio, during the early 20th century. Olga recounts her family's Ukrainian heritage, the challenges of the Great Depression, and the cultural life in her neighborhood, emphasizing the vibrant community centered around Professor Avenue. She discusses her education, work, and the impact of World War II on her life, including her marriage during the war. The interview also…

This oral history interview with Father Ralph Bodziony, conducted by Garrick E. Lipscomb on February 20, 2003, provides a detailed account of Father Bodziony's experiences serving as a priest and later as pastor in Tremont from 1969 to 2000. Father Bodziony reflects on the significant changes in the neighborhood during his tenure, including the challenges posed by the city's infrastructure, changes in parish demographics, and the broader social transformations affecting the community. He…

This oral history interview with Sister Corita Ambro covers her extensive work at St. Augustine's Church in Cleveland, beginning with her arrival in 1970. Sister Corita discusses her role in pastoral care, particularly her work with the deaf, blind, mentally ill, and physically disabled communities. She describes the transformation of the church into a hub for these marginalized groups and the development of a vibrant Hunger Center that provides meals and services daily. The interview highlights…

This oral history interview, conducted on February 22, 2003, with James and Angela Gantose, offers a detailed recollection of life in the Tremont area of Cleveland, Ohio, during the early to mid-20th century. James Gantose discusses his upbringing in a multi-ethnic neighborhood, emphasizing the diverse cultural and religious communities that coexisted on W 14th Street. The interview covers various aspects of daily life, including the significance of local churches, ethnic traditions,…

This oral history interview, conducted on February 22, 2003, features Emily Wish and Edward Mendyka, who share their memories of growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Both discuss their families' immigration to the United States in the early 20th century and the impact of the Great Depression on their lives. They reflect on the strong sense of community, local traditions, and the ethnic diversity that characterized the South Side, where they spent most of their lives. The…

This oral history interview with Edward Mendyka, conducted by Garrick E. Lipscomb on February 22, 2003, offers a comprehensive account of Mendyka’s life growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Mendyka discusses his family's Polish immigrant roots, his father's long career in the steel mills, and his mother’s work to support the family during and after the Great Depression. He shares vivid memories of the ethnic traditions that shaped his childhood, including religious customs,…

This oral history interview with Eddy Bugala, conducted by Charles McCandlish on February 22, 2003, provides a detailed account of Bugala’s experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Bugala shares memories of his parents’ immigration from Poland in the early 20th century, their settlement in Cleveland, and the cultural dynamics of the diverse community they joined. He discusses the impact of the construction of the freeway on the neighborhood, including the…

This oral history interview with Marie Gubics offers a detailed account of her early life and experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Gubics reflects on her childhood memories, including her schooling, family life, and the vibrant community activities centered around local churches and social gatherings. She describes the impact of immigration on her family, her experiences during the Great Depression, and the community's response to the construction of the inner…

The oral history interview with Mollie Alstott covers her childhood experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, during the early to mid-20th century. Mollie recounts her family's immigration from Austria-Hungary before World War I and their settlement in Tremont, where they became active members of the Ukrainian community. She describes her upbringing, which included attending Ukrainian school, participating in cultural and religious activities, and experiencing the…

Elizabeth Hallal recounts her life growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Hallal describes her family's migration to Tremont in 1919, highlighting their Russian and Slovak heritage. She provides detailed memories of her childhood on Clarence Court, including the close-knit community, the ethnic diversity, and the impact of urban development projects like the construction of Interstate 490, which led to the demolition of her home. Hallal also reflects on her experiences during…

This oral history interview explores Karl Anderson's experiences and memories connected to the Tremont area during the mid-20th century. Karl discusses his involvement in the community, particularly through experiences at Lincoln Park and his participation in local clubs at Merrick House. He reflects on the diverse ethnic backgrounds of Tremont residents, the social dynamics, and the neighborhood's evolution over time. The interview also touches on his experiences in sports, his observations on…

The oral history interview with Olga and Paul Naugle provides a detailed account of their experiences growing up during the Great Depression and their memories of life in Cleveland, Ohio. Olga recalls the challenges of living through the Depression, including the scarcity of food and the various ways their families made ends meet, such as making homemade potato chips and doughnuts. She describes entertainment activities, such as roller skating, attending the local theater, and participating in…

This oral history interview with Edmund Ziemba, conducted on March 7, 2003, by Christine Cleary, offers a reflective account of Ziemba's early life in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, during the mid-20th century. Born in 1933, Ziemba shares vivid memories of his childhood, the close-knit community, and the cultural traditions of the predominantly Polish neighborhood. He discusses his family's history, including his grandfather's immigration from Poland and establishment of a bar and…

Father Joseph Hilinski discusses his family's history, including their immigration from Poland, and their settling in Tremont due to job opportunities and the presence of a Polish-speaking church. He reflects on the neighborhood's sense of community, the impact of industrial pollution, and the changes in the area over time, including the decline in the 1970s and the subsequent revitalization. The interview also touches on his personal experiences with religion, local schools, and the evolving…

The oral history interview with Agnes Kasper reveals her deep connection to the Tremont neighborhood in Cleveland, where she has lived for many years. Kasper discusses her efforts to improve and restore properties in the area, her involvement in community activities, and the changes she has witnessed over time, including the influx of new residents and businesses. She shares her experiences with neighborhood safety, the impact of gang activities, and her commitment to creating a supportive and…

Virginia Medvec recounts her early life growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. She discusses her childhood memories, including the strong sense of community, family traditions, and the cultural influences of the Russian and Eastern European immigrant populations in the area. Medvec reflects on her experiences in school, the significance of Sundays and church activities, and the daily life of her family during the 1930s and 1940s. She also touches on the changes in the Tremont…

Pricilla Treska discusses her nearly three decades of living in Tremont, focusing on her experiences raising a large family in the neighborhood. She reflects on the decision to move to Tremont, influenced by the diversity and community at St. Augustine Church, and describes her initial concerns about safety, which eased over time. Treska shares her family's involvement in local schools, recreational activities, and church-sponsored events. She also comments on the changes in Tremont,…

The oral history interview with Robert Ceccarelli captures his memories and experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Ceccarelli describes his family's modest home, neighborhood dynamics, and the prevalent culture of shared meals and communal living. He reflects on the ethnic diversity of the area, the common practice of renting out homes, and the strong sense of community. Ceccarelli also discusses his involvement in music during his adolescence, the cultural…

In this oral history interview, Robert Ceccarelli reflects on his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, from the 1950s to the early 1970s. He discusses the strong ethnic character of the community, highlighting the mix of Polish, Greek, and Ukrainian families and their contributions to the neighborhood’s cultural fabric. Ceccarelli describes daily life in Tremont, emphasizing the importance of local churches, community events, and the close-knit nature of the…

This oral history interview with Bob Leech, conducted on March 21, 2003, offers a vivid account of his life growing up in the Tremont area of Cleveland from the early 1950s to the 1960s. Leech reflects on his childhood experiences living in the Valley View Homes projects, emphasizing the strong sense of community despite the pervasive poverty. He recounts the challenges of growing up in a low-income neighborhood, the influence of local sports and recreation programs, and the impact of the…

This oral history interview with Mary Verbeke provides a detailed account of her experiences growing up and living in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Mary discusses her early childhood memories, her family's immigration from Europe, and their settlement in Tremont in 1927. She reflects on her education, the cultural and linguistic environment of her community, and her work life, including her job in an insurance company downtown. Mary shares insights into her family traditions,…

This oral history interview, conducted on March 24, 2003, in North Olmsted, Ohio, features Joseph and Gloria Hadbavny, who recount their memories of life in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. The interview covers a range of topics, including the ethnic diversity of the Tremont area, community interactions, and cultural practices. Gloria shares vivid recollections of childhood experiences, holiday traditions, and the social dynamics of the neighborhood, while Joseph discusses his family's…

This oral history interview, conducted on March 31, 2003, features Joseph Santiago, Ward 14 Councilman and a resident of Tremont. Santiago reflects on his childhood experiences growing up in Tremont, highlighting the strong sense of community, family values, and the challenges faced by the neighborhood, including economic hardships and urban changes. He discusses his parents' immigrant background, his work experiences, and the impact of local and national events on his life. Santiago also…

Ruth Ketteringham, a local historian, discusses her family’s long connection to the area, noting that her father attended Tremont School and West High, graduating in 1896. She reminisces about her grandparents’ residence, which offered a picturesque view of the Cuyahoga Valley, and shares insights into her life, including her work with county archives and interactions with historical figures. Ruth, born in 1906 and aged 96 at the time of the interview, describes the impact of significant events…

This oral history interview with Vic Hanchuk covers his memories of growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland from the 1930s to the 1950s. Hanchuk provides detailed recollections of his family’s immigrant background, the ethnic diversity of the community, and the challenges of life in a blue-collar, working-class environment. He discusses the impact of the steel mills, the presence of organized crime, and the vibrant social fabric characterized by family values, local traditions, and…

This oral history interview with George Chandick, conducted on April 4, 2003, captures his recollections as a former mayor of Seven Hills and a long-time educator at Tremont School. Chandick discusses the development and operation of the Tremont Community Center, emphasizing its pivotal role in the community from the 1950s through the 1970s. He provides a detailed account of the center's activities, which served hundreds of children and teenagers daily, and highlights the demographic changes in…

This oral history interview, conducted on September 29, 2003, features Joseph Cimperman, a Cleveland City Councilman representing Ward 13, who shares his experiences and insights related to the Tremont neighborhood in Cleveland, Ohio. Interviewed by Patricia Haller for the Tremont Oral History Project, Cimperman discusses his upbringing in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood, his involvement in the Tremont community, and his motivations for entering public service. The interview covers a range…

This oral history interview with Lottie Pilat and Jeannette Kolis explores the experiences of long-time Tremont residents. The interview delves into their memories of the area, focusing on changes in the community brought on by urban development, including the construction of freeways that displaced many residents. Pilat and Kolis discuss the ethnic diversity of the neighborhood, their family's businesses, the impact of the freeway on local commerce and social life, and their views on the…

The oral history interview with Father Joseph McNulty, conducted on October 12, 2003, captures his reflections on the events of September 11, 2001, and their impact on both his personal experiences and the community of Tremont, Cleveland. Father McNulty describes witnessing the attacks while attending a Catholic Charities Conference in Newark, New Jersey, and discusses the subsequent outpouring of support and solidarity within the Tremont community, particularly among local churches. He…

The oral history interview with Gary Huspaska, conducted on October 15, 2003, covers his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Huspaska discusses his Slovak heritage, his family’s history in the area, and his memories of the local community, including ethnic divisions, neighborhood landmarks, and his involvement in local institutions like schools and churches. He also touches on his experiences working at NASA, his service in the U.S. Army during the early 1960s,…

This oral history interview with Dorothy Winovich, conducted on October 15, 2003, explores her experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, particularly during the 1940s and 1950s. Winovich reflects on the close-knit community, the strong cultural and educational influence of Lincoln High School, and the neighborhood’s deep ties to local churches and the steel industry. She describes the vibrant social life centered around neighborhood events, playgrounds, and local…

This oral history interview with Bernard Sokolowski, conducted on October 15, 2003, captures his reflections on life and business in Tremont, Cleveland. Sokolowski discusses his role as the third-generation owner of Sokolowski’s University Inn, a family-operated restaurant established in 1923. He provides insights into the evolution of Tremont, noting the neighborhood's shift from a working-class, family-oriented community to one dominated by single professionals and gentrification. Sokolowski…

In this oral history interview, Nancy Wendell discusses her family’s German and Prussian ancestry, their immigration to the United States, and their settlement in the Tremont area of Cleveland. She reflects on the lives and work of her ancestors, who were primarily involved in the railroad industry and tavern ownership, and shares her efforts in genealogical research to uncover more about her family’s past. Wendell also speaks about her personal connections to Tremont, despite not having lived…

Joseph Vargo, a former resident of Tremont, discusses his childhood during the Great Depression, his Slovak heritage, and the cultural and social life in Tremont, including details about local churches, schools, and recreational spots. He reflects on the changes in the neighborhood over time, including the impact of migration, economic shifts, and freeway construction on the community's structure and demographics. Vargo also recounts memories of local traditions, businesses, and landmarks,…

Eugene Bahniuk provides a detailed account of his childhood and young adulthood in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Bahniuk recounts his early memories of the neighborhood, the diverse community, and the various activities he and his friends engaged in, from playing in Lincoln Park to exploring the flats. He reflects on his experiences at local schools, his involvement in sports and social clubs, and his work at his father's gas station. Bahniuk also discusses the impact of World War…

Erich Hooper discusses his family's move to Tremont in the early 1960s and shares memories of his childhood, including the influence of sports programs and the ethnic diversity of the community. He describes the social dynamics, racial tensions, and changes in the neighborhood over the decades, highlighting the impact of urban development, such as the construction of highways and new housing projects. Hooper also touches on his personal achievements, including his work in the restaurant industry…

In this oral history interview, Walter Wright discusses his experiences as a long-time resident and commercial development director in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. He provides a detailed account of the neighborhood's history, highlighting its transformation from an industrial hub to a diverse, revitalized community. Wright elaborates on the role of the Tremont West Development Corporation in fostering economic development, preserving historic architecture, and addressing…

Frank Boulton shares his experiences growing up in the Tremont area of Cleveland, Ohio, starting from his birth in 1947. The interview covers a broad range of topics including Boulton's family life, his childhood memories, the ethnic diversity of the neighborhood, and his observations of the social and economic changes in Tremont over several decades. Boulton also discusses his experiences during his service in the United States Air Force, his family's relocation to the suburbs, and his…

This oral history interview, conducted on October 28, 2003, features Ward 14 Councilman Joe Santiago, who discusses his family’s migration from Puerto Rico to Tremont, Ohio in the 1950s, seeking employment in the region's industrial sector. Santiago details the ethnic composition and industrial growth of Tremont, emphasizing the impact of factory work and the construction of the freeway on the community’s development. He reflects on the cultural diversity of Tremont, the role of block clubs in…

This oral history interview with Gene Tracy, conducted on October 29, 2003, by Michelle Burk, explores Tracy's experiences and observations of the Tremont neighborhood in Cleveland, Ohio. Tracy discusses his long-term familiarity with the area, the changes brought by gentrification, and the impact on the local artist community. He reflects on the transformation of Tremont from a vibrant, diverse neighborhood into one increasingly dominated by wealthier new residents and developers, leading to…

This oral history interview with Mollie Alstott provides a detailed account of her childhood and early adulthood experiences in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. Alstott discusses the close-knit and diverse community in which she grew up, highlighting the various nationalities that coexisted and the importance of church and social activities in her life. She reflects on the impact of the Great Depression on her family and community, noting how her father's confectionery store played a role…

Marianne Ludwig describes her decision to move to Tremont, motivated by a desire to live in a historic yet revitalized area, and her involvement in the community, including her role in the North of Literary Block Club. She reflects on her background, including her German heritage and upbringing in Illinois, and shares her views on the challenges and changes in the Tremont neighborhood, particularly concerning historic preservation, urban development, and community engagement. Ludwig also touches…

This oral history interview with Irene Pavlyshyn, conducted on October 30, 2003, captures her recollections of growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Pavlyshyn discusses her childhood experiences, highlighting the close-knit community, the diversity of nationalities, and the influence of her Ukrainian heritage. She reflects on the changes in the neighborhood over time, the impact of urban development, and her family's involvement in the local economy through their grocery…