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Dear Shaker Resident,
Welcome to the second edition of the Economic Development Update, a new community-oriented newsletter you are receiving as a subscriber to Shaker Heights City ENews. In this edition, we will highlight the collaborative work between the City's Economic Development Department and Shaker Heights Development Corporation (SHDC), which includes sharing the results of our first ever Shaker Heights Business Appreciation Mixer (SH-BAM) recognition program.
Regards, Laura Englehart Director of Economic Development, City of Shaker Heights
Nick Fedor Executive Director, Shaker Heights Development Corporation
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SH-BAM Recognition ProgramSpotlight on 14 Shaker BusinessesThe Shaker Heights Business Appreciation Mixer (SH-BAM) was created seven years ago as an annual gathering to thank our business community for its contributions to the City. Plus, it gives businesses a way to network with each other. Of course, this year the event had to go virtual. To create an engaging event, the City, Shaker Heights Development Corporation (SHDC) and Heights-Hillcrest Chamber of Commerce (HRCC) co-hosted a new recognition program that highlighted 14 of the more than 300 great businesses that call Shaker home. SHDC and the City convened a group of residents to establish the recognition categories and nominations. These recognitions were designed to show off the behind-the-scenes work that goes into being a top notch, unique business. Click on the name of the business below to learn why it was recognized and in which category. Alternatively, click here to see the full slideshow, as it was presented during the event.
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Lee Road: Real Estate and Business Development
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What is the SHDC? The mission of Shaker Heights Development Corporation (SHDC) is to enhance commercial revitalization efforts in Shaker Heights. SHDC and the City's Economic Development Department work closely to support redevelopment efforts throughout the City, but particularly on Lee Road. The two Lee Road commercial projects described below are excellent examples of our work together.
Visit the SHDC website to sign up for its newsletter and be sure to follow SHDC on Instagram and Facebook.
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Coming Soon: Lee Road Façade FaceliftBarbara’s Hair Salon (3704 Lee Road) and the Process Canine Training Center (3700 Lee Road) will be transformed through the City's Storefront Renovation Program. The property, managed by SHDC, was purchased by a partnership between SHDC and Shaker residents. The new, modern façade — designed by Shaker-based Gibbon Architecture — calls for the removal of the applied faux stone, new signage and lighting. Look for construction to begin in the near future.
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 Rendering of the new façade for 3700-3706 Lee Rd. by Gibbon Architecture.
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Impact on Lee RoadA Story of Expansion and RevitalizationThe former Huntington Bank branch at 3505 Lee Road will soon be the new home of Shaker Heights Animal Hospital. The Animal Hospital is a business leader in the community as an active member of the Chagrin+Lee Business Association and has spearheaded a number of Lee Road corridor clean-ups. In 2017, the Animal Hospital participated in the City's Storefront Renovation Program, investing more than $40,000 into the exterior of its current property at 3612 Lee Road, which enhances the overall curb appeal of this historic gem to attract future tenants.
In 2019, the Animal Hospital expressed its need to expand and commitment to remaining in the Chagrin Lee District. SHDC and the City recognized the need to act quickly. Fortunately, SHDC had recently acquired the former bank branch property and was able to sell the property to the Animal Hospital. Renovations are now in progress and will include new signage, paid for in part by a grant from the City's Storefront Renovation Program. The Shaker Heights Animal Hospital plans to open in its new, larger location in 2021.
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Commercial District Happenings
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Shaker Heights Development Corporation (SHDC) organizes the business associations for Chagrin+Lee and Van Aken. The goal of these associations: bring businesses together for collaboration and networking activities. Before the COVID-19 crisis, each business association produced a paper map of its respective area for distribution at business counters throughout the City. Chagrin+Lee has organized clean ups and monthly social lunches. New this season, both associations are participating in #ShakerShines.
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#ShakerShines This Holiday During the Shop Small holiday shopping season, Shaker's commercial districts will truly shine with a new storefront window lighting and decorating program, launching Thanksgiving weekend.
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Hardware Store News…a Farewell and a Welcome You have likely heard the sad news that — after nearly 100 years — Shaker Hardware has closed. In a recent public statement, owners Jim and Rob Gibson acknowledged their wonderful employees and expressed gratitude to the Shaker Heights community for the unwavering support and patronage over the years. The closing of a long-standing and valued local business is a true loss to our community. We wish the Gibsons well in their retirement, and we thank them for their long and dedicated careers in which they thoughtfully served our community.
We are also excited to soon welcome a new, locally owned, full-service Ace Hardware store to the same location at Shaker Towne Center! With store services ranging from screen and window repair to blade sharpening and other specialty services, and featuring brands like Benjamin Moore paints, we look forward to a new local hardware store serving our community soon. Coming 2021, in a newly refreshed space! Stay tuned for more information.
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Coming Soon: Upper CrustPerhaps you’ve noticed that the corner of Lee and Kenyon roads is looking a bit different. Upper Crust is taking over the corner building at 16600 Chagrin Blvd. This will be the fifth location for this Northeast Ohio business, which was started in North Olmsted. Check out the menu here. Upper Crust hopes to open before the year is out.
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New Breakfast Options
As work places reopen for some, while work from home still persists for others, Picnic Hill Market Café now has breakfast sandwiches to satisfy commuters as well as those who just need to get out of the house. Of course, Picnic Hill also offers some breakfast/dessert indulgences to satisfy your sweet tooth, such as daily doughnuts and sticky buns on Fridays and Saturdays. While you are in the neighborhood, grab a coffee or tea next door at Biggby Coffee.
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Fredo’s Pizza at Larchmere TavernVegan Options Too!Fred Vrbel, owner of Larchmere Tavern, has introduced Fredo’s Pizza to its menu and it is getting rave reviews! To be sure, this vegan pizza is having its moment on the foodie social media scene. Place your order by calling 216-721-1111. And, if you are out walking your dog or strolling with a child when you place your order, your crew will be rewarded with a dog treat or cookie! So neighborly!
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Van Aken Market HallIntroducing The Corner
The Corner opened in the Market Hall in early October and we couldn’t be more thrilled! This shop offers local entrepreneurs (including some Shaker home-based businesses) an opportunity to showcase their talent and passion by providing a venue to sell their products in a traditional retail setting. Currently, 17 businesses are represented, but the mix will be ever-changing, so be sure to swing by the Market Hall and explore often. Click here to learn more about The Corner and apply to participate (or pass along the link to someone you know).
The Corner is part of the Van Aken Entrepreneurial Initiative, which is a partnership between the City, RMS (owners of the Van Aken District) and the Small Business Development Center at the Urban League of Greater Cleveland that provides customer-facing opportunities and support services to local entrepreneurs, especially people of color, women, and all underrepresented entrepreneurs. To learn how The Corner fits into the Van Aken Entrepreneurial Initiative, check out this recent Fresh Water article.
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Opening Soon: AO OfficeNow leasing in the Van Aken District, AO Office is Shaker's newest shared office space. Office sizes range from one to four person. The small office co-working space is light, bright, modern and packed with amenities, including various sized conference rooms and gathering spaces. Click here for more details, including leasing information or reach out via email or phone at 888-230-6460.
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Shaker MasksBe On Trend, While Supporting Local BusinessesThe Mask Up Shaker campaign benefits our small businesses. The City purchased Shaker Heights branded masks for local businesses to sell for $5 each. 100 percent of the money earned through these sales goes directly into the pockets of the participating business. Purchase yours before supplies run out at:
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The 2020 pandemic has brought many challenges to everyone, but especially to our small business community. This holiday season, before shopping online or in-person at big box stores, explore gifting, food and service options available from Shaker businesses instead. Many Shaker businesses have recently grown their online presence and added delivery and curbside pick up. This makes shopping local easier than ever, even when physical distancing is required. Again this year, SHDC and Shop Shaker are serving as Shop Small Neighborhood Champions, so we'll be delivering Shop Small swag to local businesses to share with their customers. Follow Shop Shaker on Facebook and Instagram this season to stay in the loop and be inspired to #shopsmall #shoplocal #shopshaker. And please remember to wear your mask and keep your distance while shopping local.
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Cleveland Made MarketVan Aken District Small Business Saturday: Saturday, November 289 am-4 pmThe Van Aken District is hosting a Shop Small Saturday Market with Made Cleveland, which is curating the 20 maker-market. In order to ensure appropriate physical distancing for the makers and shoppers, timed tickets to this outdoor event will be sold. Click here for more information and to buy tickets.
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North Union Farmers Holiday MarketSaturdays, December 5 & 12 10 am-4 pm Join us outside at the Van Aken District for a winter market supporting local artists, makers, and farmers and find unique gifts perfect for everyone in your life. Support local businesses with your gifting!
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