Submitted by lmcshane on Thu, 03/25/2010 - 22:02.
As March comes to an end, I am personally reflecting on strong local women who make a difference in Northeast Ohio.
Tonight, I marvelled at the efforts of Marcie Goodman, who directs the Cleveland International Film Festival. This event defines Cleveland and uplifts our notoriously down spirits. Bravo, Marcie--you are a personal hero.
I think, too, of Alenka Banco, director of the Convivium33 Gallery and St. Josaphat Arts Center; Chloe Hopson, director of Passport Project Global Dance and Music Project; and Eugenia Strauss, director of CityMusic--and I CAN Believe in Cleveland.
I also want to praise Jan Ridgeway--the unsung civil rights hero of Cleveland Public Library. She retires this weekend, but I know that she will not stop fighting for her passions in life--CHILDREN and the ARTS.
BRAVO to all of these brave, strong women and the more to come.
Don't forget former Mayor Jane Campbell ...
and council woman Fannie Lewis. Some of Cleveland's best leaders have been women.
they follow in the steps of others
As I read the coverage about the fire at Euclid Avenue Congregational Church this past week, I noted that Joan Southgate is a member of that now homeless congregation. It made me wonder if the Cozad-Bates House might be a place for them to reconvene given their history and diversity.
Cleveland has historically been blessed with women of courage and stamina.
Joan Southgate
Thanks Susan--Cleveland was known as "Hope" on the underground railroad. I think your idea has REAL merit. I also hope that perhaps--the congregation will be able to consolidate and inhabit one of the Catholic Churches threatened with closure.
Joan Southgate definitely makes a real difference in Northeast Ohio. Please forgive me for the omission. I know that there are many unsung and great women in NEO--we tend to overlook and take for granted.
I hope others will join REALNEO and make our great local women known to more people worldwide.