Perry teacher lauded for winning award

BOUQUETS >> To Caryl Church, art teacher at Perry Elementary School, on receiving the 2018 Outstanding Art Teacher Award for the Northeast Region of the Ohio Art Education Association.

The statewide group is an affiliate of the National Art Education Association.

In her 12-year career as an arts educator, the last four at Perry Elementary in Perry Village, Church has taught thousands of children.

“I am humbled by the recognition because I know so many amazing art educators across the state,” Church said. “This award means a lot to me because the recognition comes from my peers, people who devote their lives to art education. To be awarded by professional art educators for the work I love and know is so important to my students, and it feels amazing.”

Church was nominated by Linda Hoeptner Poling, a professor at Kent State University.

“Caryl has the amazing ability of giving students the venue to tell their stories in very meaningful ways, creating a classroom space in which critical thinking is the norm, not the exception,” Poling said.

The selection committee noted that Church has demonstrated “a commitment and dedication to her students that is characterized by patience, understanding, compassion and helpfulness. In addition, she meets the needs and interests of students in a creative manner, bringing about learning, growth, and development in all areas.”

We believe that Church is an excellent choice for this regional award.

BOUQUETS » To Jia Wei, on his decision to open a Wild Mango restaurant at Legacy Village in Lyndhurst.

Wild Mango, which also has a westside location in North Olmsted, specializes in multiculturally influenced cuisine that reflects an eclectic mix of Asian, European and South American flavors.

Targeted to open by the end of 2018, the classically sophisticated taste and style of Wei, Wild Mango owner and executive chef, will be reflected in virtually every aspect of the new restaurant — from the menu’s distinctive appetizers, entrees and desserts, to the exclusive décor, a news release stated.

“I have long had my sights on Legacy Village as the location for a new eastside restaurant,” Wei said. “Legacy Village reflects a comfortable, upscale ambiance that is perfectly aligned with the Wild Mango experience — from our uniquely sophisticated decor and high-touch service, to the eclectic dishes that grace our menu.”

The restaurant’s al fresco dining will overlook the popular Legacy Village lawn, which is home to concerts and events throughout the summer season.

We’re confident that the Wild Mango will be a delicious addition to Legacy Village.

BRICKBATS » To Cody Coats of Cleveland, after he was sentenced April 16 to nearly 16 years in federal prison for firing a shotgun during a carjacking in Euclid.

Coats, 25, was found guilty of carjacking and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. U.S. District Judge Solomon Oliver sentenced Coats to 191 months in prison.

Coats used an Ithaca shortbarreled shotgun when he carjacked someone and stole their 2005 Chrysler Crossfire outside a Euclid bar on Aug. 14, 2017. He crashed the car on East 222nd Street near Lake Shore Boulevard following a police chase and was arrested.

“The defendant earned this sentence when he fired a shotgun while carjacking the victim,” U.S. Attorney Justin E. Herdman said.

Euclid Police Chief Scott Meyer said city detectives did an outstanding job with the apprehension and investigation.

“We must all work together to send the message that violent crime will not be tolerated in our communities,” Meyer added.

Hopefully, news of Coats’ sentence will help reinforce that message.

BRICKBATS » To Brandon Franklin, the Uber driver who was convicted of having sex with an alcohol-impaired woman in Akron without her consent after giving her a ride.

The Akron Beacon Journal reported that Franklin, 34, of Tallmadge, was convicted April 20 in Akron of sexual battery. Franklin testified at his three-day trial the 22-yearold woman willingly had sex with him.

The woman testified she woke up on March 25, 2017, and discovered Franklin having sex with her at her home. She testified she pushed him out of the room but doesn’t remember much else because she was intoxicated.

The judge revoked Franklin’s bond after the verdict. He could face five years in prison at sentencing May 22.

It’s too bad that Franklin put himself in a predicament that led to criminal charges and his subsequent conviction.