The Observation Deck

Richard Baker wrote:Back on the subject: Beck Center leaving Lakewood, perhaps it best they move to a city were its citizens will be more supportive to it’s needs as a cultural center. Unless the community is evolved the City throwing money at a problem, a historical Lakewood remedy, will only render the same results as Lakewood School District, mediocrity.

Dick


Spoken like a true wash-a-shore.

You better be with us on the 4th.

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Jim,

Something about the forest and the trees I suppose. Love to join you Jim, but I will be evolved in a Corinthian sport, off the shores of Lakewood at the helm of "R" sailboat called “Lovely Ladyâ€Â

[quote="Richard Baker"]Jim,

Something about the forest and the trees I suppose. Love to join you Jim, but I will be evolved in a Corinthian sport, off the shores of Lakewood at the helm of "R" sailboat called “Lovely Ladyâ€Â

There are a lot of good thoughts here on he Beck Center and related questions, especially in Ken's realpolitik. Perhaps wen I've assimilated it all I can off er some idea also. In the meantime, one question that may be totally unrealistic and contrary-to-fact, but at least worth mentioning:

re the so-called Westwood Theater Building (it will always be the Hilliard Square in the memory and in my heart): With the rebuilding of the Harding-Madison School property, might it be possible to carve out a parking area there that could serve the theater, at least in the evenings? It would be a longer-than-usual walk to the theater, of course, but a shuttle-van or -bus might be used to transport the patrons.

Gordon Brumm wrote:re the so-called Westwood Theater Building (it will always be the Hilliard Square in the memory and in my heart): With the rebuilding of the Harding-Madison School property, might it be possible to carve out a parking area there that could serve the theater, at least in the evenings? It would be a longer-than-usual walk to the theater, of course, but a shuttle-van or -bus might be used to transport the patrons.

Gordon

I have known three groups that have shown an interest in the Westwood Art Theater. It all comes down to parking and unrealistic demands by the owner of the building. the last group I know of that wanted to bring it back, was the stereo guys that rented there. They got so frustrated they moved out and set-up shop next to Scents and Accents on Madison. At one point I had heard the city itself was looking to do something.

When I was in there last year there was a lot of water damage and a flat roof that needed fixing. I had some interest, as I have always wanted to find another theater to rehab after doing the Homestead 20+ years ago. unless we can tear down the Silver Coast, it will never be feasible. The Silver Coast was built on the Westwood's parking lot. Having spoken with everyone involved in this property I can honestly say the only way the Silver Coast will sell is through Eminent Domain. While ED on the Westend was pure abuse of power and ED laws, I am not so sure the Silver Coast would be. But ED is the third rail in Lakewood and rightfully so.

I think a better location would be McKinley School. A ton of room for theater, parking, and art galleries. The rooms could eaisly be turned into art lofts and studios to support the arts. The rooms in old Mckinley would be great for the money making classes that keep the Beck afloat. A small "art college" would really be kick ass for the area.

FWIW

I can't agree more about the McKinley thing. As I spend time exploring the West End with friends, I realize that this is probably the most promising area of Lakewood.

For all my skepticism about Mr Liston's lifestyle, this is one area where I ca n truly see being able to keep the car in the garage on weekends. I am seriously looking at finding a suitable place there.

There is already a good mx of not only "destination" places (ATC, 3 Birds) but also basic services.

Housing along Sloane is varied, in good condition, yet still affordable.

Plus (sorry bout this) Lakewood's west end can seamlessly segue into Rocky River's happening EAST end. A little prettification of the bridge, maybe even a shutttle service, and I can see a fabulous zone. An arts center at McKinley could serve nicely as the eastern anchor of that zone (with the new Beachcliff as the western anchor)

This way, Lakewood wouldn't only be relying on Lakewood to thrive. We could actually get a little help from our neighbors.

The only question, natch, is money. The schools can't be expected to just give McKinley away. As a typical Ohio district fighting to make ends meet, they may not even make much of a deal off fair market value, which could be several milliion easily.

If we can't find the money to renovate the Beck, where will money for McKinley?

Joan Roberts wrote:If we can't find the money to renovate the Beck, where will money for McKinley?

Joan

Had I known I had a single home for rent I could have gotten you in to.

Just because The Beck Center couldn't find the money does not mean WE could not find the money. As I mentioned earlier I have friends that have been seriously looking at McKinley.


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