Euclid flag, golf instructor applauded

It’s always nice to see a local resident, community, business or employee gain positive national recognition.

That’s why we enjoyed reading recent News-Herald stories about separate honors that were bestowed upon a city and a golf club employee — both based in eastern Cuyahoga County.

The first noteworthy achievement involved Euclid’s city flag, which ranked in the top 46 of more than 312 flags surveyed by the North American Vexillological Association.

Vexillology is the study of the history, symbolism and usage of flags.

Since 2015, more than 300 American cities and towns are known to have adopted new or redesigned flags to represent their communities.

NAVA is an organization with more than 1,000 flag enthusiasts, scholars and respondents to rate the designs of each of these flags. The survey was conducted online from Sept. 1 to Nov. 30 with more than 2,800 people participating.

All participants were asked to rate the design of each flag using a low to high scale of zero to 10. The Euclid flag received a rating of A-, putting it in the top 30 percent of flags surveyed. More than 60 percent of the flags received a D or an F rating.

According to the survey, the ratings given by the public closely matched those of NAVA members.

The flag originally was designed by Harrison McCreight and Evan Botzki in 2017. McCreight is now president of the Euclid Historical Society and Museum, with Botzki serving as vice president. The flag is composed of blue, white and gold with a star in the central portion, ending in a swallow tail and tongue shape.

“In its simplest form, it felt really good to see this rating. To see the work we put into designing this new symbol for the city paying off is very special,” Botzki said.

“It feels like we did a really great job in the end. It feels like that was proven here.”

Doing excellent work also is a trait exhibited by Joe Meglen, director of Player Development at StoneWater Golf Club in Highland Heights. Recently, he was selected as one of the Best Young Teachers in America by Golf Digest magazine.

He is one of only four in the state to earn this distinction, according to a news release.

Meglen, 38, is featured in the February 2023 issue, identifying the best instructors under age 40 who are making the biggest impact on the industry — and in more ways than ever.

Meglen also is the only instructor in Northeast Ohio who is available to the general public, through StoneWater, for lessons, club fittings and player development. He has been an instructor at StoneWater since March 2022.

“It is an undeniable honor to be recognized as one of the best young teachers, and to be part of this group of talented golf professionals,” Meglen said in the release.

“I am so fortunate to do what I love and help golfers achieve their goals. It’s amazing to be able to interact with so many great people every day.”

Meglen helps golfers at StoneWater to learn all aspects of the game, from a full swing to short game. He instructs golfer at all levels.

“Golf is a game where there is always room for improvement,” Meglen said

“Whether helping a new golfer learn the love and discipline of the game, or instructing a seasoned golfer, I enjoy the opportunity to inspire people to be the best and to love and respect the game.”

In conclusion, The NewsHerald congratulates the city of Euclid, and the creators of its flag; and Joe Meglen of StoneWater Golf Club, on receiving national attention for distinct and special reasons.

We hope you’ve enjoyed your moments in the spotlight, as the recognition you have attained is well-deserved.