This November, OhioAuthority.com and Danielle DeBoe, creator of the Made in the 216 series of events and owner of Room Service, teamed up to create a Cleveland-centric competition. OA readers were asked to submit a work that highlighted what they love about Cleveland in 216 words. The entries were wonderful.
The OA team and DeBoe read creative, colorful prose about the North Coast. We poured over heartfelt letters to the city. We enjoyed nostalgic tales and hopes for a bright future. We loved every word. Narrowing it down to less than 10 finalists was daunting, choosing one winner nearly impossible.
In the end, we agreed that Stephanie Bayer's rhyming prose was the most inspiring. It speaks to Cleveland's past and Cleveland's future, cleverly introducing landmarks and a personal perspective. It is full of promise and optimism, and touches a nerve any resident can appreciate. It's the perfect message for a bright New Year. And, it's exactly 216 words.
For her work, Bayer will receive a beautiful print by Brian Andrew Jasinski, whose company is Grey Cardigan, in addition to three diamond cut votives in a lovely spring color story, all hand-picked by DeBoe.
Why I Love Cleveland - In 216 Words
by Stephanie Bayer
I love Cleveland for its past, present and its future possibilities,
The chance to impact the city is as open as your capabilities.
The people are kind, genuine, and warm,
And welcome you to a town that transforms.
From the bustle of the West Side Market place,
To the easy lapping shorelines full with Lake Erie’s grace,
Over the reverberations from the Rock Hall,
Into the Q arena when the King plays ball,
Cleveland proves to be a city that is truly alive,
A home to so many that want and need to thrive.
The Cleveland Museum of Art provides culture so vibrant and rich,
The Cleveland Orchestra offers a world class show always at perfect pitch.
The healthcare institutions in this town are of paramount quality and most fine.
The restaurant options are abundant, diverse and delicious to dine.
Whether it’s kayaking or biking in the abundant Metroparks,
Or tailgating in the Muni Lot as the Dawg Pound readies its barks,
Cleveland proves to be a spot for recreation and fun,
And shows it is a place that needn’t be out-done.
But more than the easy culture and entertaining,
Cleveland is place that defies explaining.
It begs for roots, contribution, and a ceasing of the need to roam
I love Cleveland because Cleveland is home.
