so the residents’ efforts always were stonewalled, according to Schoen. “It was a political football,” he says, and it wasn’t until the current school board members embraced the issue that the vision – and much more – was realized. Schoen credits school board president Mitch Luxenburg, BHS Class of 1989, with spearheading the project. “Without his leadership, courage, independent thinking and savvy, we would not have gotten this far,” Shoen explains. But its accomplishment is also credited to the unwavering support of Beachwood Boosters members, foremost among them David Orloff, Robert Marks, BHS Class of 1984, and Schoen, also known among themselves as The Three Stooges: Larry, Curly and Moe respectively. “We were all passionate and determined to move the ball down the field,” Marks says. Head football coach Damion Creel, BHS Class of 1994, calls this an “historic time for the district and football program.” He also admits to being very jealous of never having played on such a field during his own high school football days. “Many of us have wanted this for a long time.” Beachwood Boosters president Scott Spero says he hopes that the renovations will help make the athletic experience the best that it can be and serve as a catalyst for greater involvement. “The glamour is there,” he notes. Luxenburg reports that the school board was mindful of residents in the immediate vicinity of the sports complex on surrounding streets, including Shaker Boulevard, Shakercrest, Fairmount Boulevard and Richmond Road. “We went out of our way to address all issues and questions,” he states. In particular, he reports that the stadium lights are aimed directly on the field and have a “no spillage” quality. Because of the new entrance and containment arrangements, the district will charge admittance to all games, including soccer, lacrosse, and track and field, with fees determined by the Cuyahoga Valley Conference. The renovation plans were drafted by ThenDesign Architecture (TDA) based in Willoughby with Capstone Construction Company LLC of Chardon handling the execution. With the stadium a reality, Luxenburg says he hopes the community will come out and support the athletes. “We are working hard to engage the students, alumni and residents. We hope to get them involved and keep them involved.” Prior to flipping the switch before the Friday night game against Perry, Hardis said, “We have a proud history and a bright future – and it will be even brighter tonight!” In recognition of this historic event, Mayor Merle S. Gorden and City Council proclaimed Friday, September 16, 2016 as “Beachwood City Schools – Flip the Switch Day” in the city of Beachwood. 4 5 6 7 8 1. 2. Bison led by #54, Zachery Zhang Pictured from left: Mayor Merle S. Gorden, Superintendent Bob Hardis and School Board members Josh Mintz, Brian Weiss, Michael Zawatsky and Mitch Luxenburg 3. 4. Full house at Beachwood’s new stadium Jeff Babush and Randy Alter Randy; “I’m proud of Beachwood tonight!” Jeff: “This is a true event that created a buzz!” 5. 6. Cheerleaders Alexis VanderLinden and Blair Mitchell Audrey Caplan Belleli (Class of ’82), David Belleli and Bobbie Caplan Audrey: “I’ve lived in Beachwood for 50 years. This is awesome!” Bobbie: “I live on Beechmont Court and I go for daily walks that take me past the construction so I watched it come out of the ground!” 7. Debbie Pasternak Sabroff and Robert Marks Debbie: “This is the coolest thing. It’s the biggest day in Beachwood’s history!” Robert: “I have never seen an event that has piqued the interest of so many alumni!” 8. Class of ‘82 members Neil Schor, Kenny Kurland and Ronna Gerson Posta Ronna: “I was a cheerleader in high school and I always wanted to have home night games. About 10 Class of ’82 members had a mini reunion before this big event!” Kenny: “Only in Beachwood would they build a place like this!” October 2016 n Beachwood Buzz 9