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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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 Karen Glasenapp provides an account of her experiences teaching kindergarten at Tremont Elementary School in Cleveland, Ohio, from 1983 to 1990. Glasenapp discusses the differences in resources and student demographics between Tremont and her previous position at Riverside. She outlines the challenges of teaching in a high-poverty environment, including issues such as parental neglect, substance abuse, and violence. The interview includes anecdotes that highlight…

Tad Gish shares his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, during the 1930s. Gish discusses his family history, including his grandfather's funeral home and his father's dental practice, and describes the vibrant community life along West 14th Street. He reflects on the neighborhood's demographic, primarily composed of hardworking, foreign-born individuals, particularly of Polish descent. The interview also addresses the decline of Tremont due to industrial…

Norbert Wallington, a resident of Tremont since 1946, recounts his family's relocation from Pennsylvania and his diverse work history, which includes positions at Railway Express, the Federal Reserve Bank, and Ford Motor Company, as well as his volunteer efforts at St. Michael's Church. He discusses significant changes in the Tremont neighborhood over the years, particularly the effects of highway construction (I-71 and I-90) on the community, including population decline, loss of tax base, and…

Nina Swerdlow reflects on her life as a resident of the Tremont neighborhood. Swerdlow discusses her family's Jewish heritage and their immigration from Poland, detailing the cultural and social dynamics of the community during her upbringing. She shares memories of local businesses, community events, and the strong sense of neighborhood identity that characterized Tremont in the mid-20th century. Swerdlow also addresses the challenges faced by the community over the years, including economic…

Florence Sutowski was born in 1927 and has spent her entire life in the Tremont neighborhood. Sutowski describes Tremont as a safe and ethnically diverse community, primarily inhabited by Polish, Ukrainian, Slovak, and Russian immigrants who worked in local steel mills. She reflects on the strong sense of community, where residents often left their doors unlocked and intermarriage among ethnic groups was common, despite some preference for marrying within one's own ethnicity. Sutowski shares her…

Cecilia Sobczyk, a long-time resident of Tremont, discusses her Polish heritage and the experiences of her family, who immigrated to the United States in the early 20th century. She reflects on the close-knit community of Tremont, characterized by strong cultural ties, local traditions, and the importance of family and church in daily life. Sobczyk shares her memories of growing up in the neighborhood, including local businesses, community events, and the challenges faced by residents during…

Joe Santiago shares his experiences growing up in the Tremont area, discussing his family's Puerto Rican heritage and the challenges they faced as part of a minority community in Tremont. He reflects on the vibrant cultural life of the neighborhood, highlighting local festivals, community gatherings, and the strong sense of identity among residents. Santiago also addresses the impact of economic changes on Tremont, including the decline of local industries and the effects of urban development.…

Irene Pavlyshyn shares her experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Born in 1935 to Ukrainian immigrant parents, Pavlyshyn discusses her family's cultural traditions and the strong sense of community among residents. She reflects on her education, local social activities, and the role of the church in her upbringing. The interview also addresses the challenges faced by the community during economic downturns and the impact of urban development on Tremont.

Joe Nicklos shares his experiences growing up in Cleveland's Tremont neighborhood. Born in 1928 to immigrant parents from Hungary, Nicklos discusses his family's cultural background and the strong sense of community in Tremont. He reflects on his education, local social activities, and the role of the church in his life. The interview also addresses the impact of the Great Depression and World War II on the neighborhood, as well as the changes brought about by urban development. Nicklos's…

Marie McElroy, Marie DeCapiti, and Dorothy Ferencz share their respective experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio. Born in the early 1930s to immigrant families, they discuss their cultural backgrounds and the strong sense of community that characterized their upbringing. The trio reflects on their education, local social activities, and the influence of neighborhood churches in their lives. Their narrative also addresses the challenges faced during the Great…

Edward Maichrye shares his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood. Born in 1929 to immigrant parents from Poland, Maichrye discusses his family's cultural heritage and the close-knit community that defined his upbringing. He reflects on his education, local social activities, and the significant role of the church in his life. The narrative also addresses the challenges faced by residents during the Great Depression and World War II, as well as the impact of urban development on the…

Marlo Honeberger shares her experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood. Born in 1947, Honeberger discusses her family's background and the vibrant community life that shaped her childhood. She reflects on her education, local social activities, and the influence of neighborhood organizations and churches. The narrative also addresses the changes in the area during the 1960s and 1970s, including the impact of urban renewal and demographic shifts. Honeberger's account provides insights…

Jim Camaris shares his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood. Born in 1935 to Greek immigrant parents, Camaris discusses his family's cultural heritage and the strong sense of community that characterized his upbringing. He reflects on his education, local social activities, and the significant role of the church in his life. The narrative also addresses the challenges faced by residents during the mid-20th century, including economic hardships and the impact of World War II. Poor…

Mary Hinding shares her experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood from approximately 1930 to 1941. As a first-generation Ukrainian-American, she discusses her family's immigration from Ukraine and their working-class lifestyle, with her father employed in a steel mill. Hinding reflects on the close-knit community comprised of Eastern European families, highlighting the mutual support among neighbors during the Great Depression. She describes her childhood activities centered around…

Chris Myslenski shares his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood during the 1940s and 1950s. Born to Polish immigrant parents in 1938, he discusses the cultural and social dynamics of his community, emphasizing the importance of family and local traditions. Myslenski reflects on his education at local schools and the impact of neighborhood organizations, including the church, on his upbringing. He recounts childhood activities, such as playing in the streets and participating in…

Georgia Franko recounts her early life in the Tremont area south of Clark and West 25th in Cleveland, focusing on her family's immigration from Poland in the early 20th century to escape Russian conscription. She shares childhood memories of playing with her sister, attending St. Joseph's school from 1946, and the strong sense of community where residents were closely connected. Franko highlights the ethnic diversity of the area, including Polish, Ukrainian, Slovak, Syrian, and Irish…

Michael Fedak, a longtime resident of Tremont, Ohio, was born in 1914 and lived in the neighborhood through much of the 20th century. Fedak discusses his family's immigration from Ukraine, his education, and his career in the steel industry and aircraft manufacturing. He reflects on changes in Tremont's demographics, the impact of urban development, and shifts in the community’s ethnic composition over time. Additionally, he shares his experiences working on aircraft production during World War…

Jeffry Chiplis shares his experiences growing up in the Tremont neighborhood during the 1950s and 1960s. Born in 1952 to Greek immigrant parents, he discusses the cultural heritage and values instilled in him by his family. Chiplis reflects on his education at local schools, the significance of community gatherings, and the role of the church in his upbringing. He describes the vibrant neighborhood life, including friendships, recreational activities, and the challenges faced by families during…

John Palivoda recounts his life experiences in the Tremont neighborhood. Born in 1933 to Slovak immigrant parents, Palivoda discusses his family's background and the cultural traditions that shaped his upbringing. He reflects on the close-knit community of Tremont, highlighting the importance of local churches, social gatherings, and the influence of ethnic heritage on daily life. The interview also addresses the challenges faced by residents during economic changes and the impact of urban…

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…