As you probably know, a fire broke out on Friday night just behind Heights Arts and the Cedar Lee Theater in the main new apartment building we have all been anticipating for many years. We, with the other merchants along Lee Road, were looking forward to welcoming the influx of new residents who would bring new energy and business to our already thriving district. Despite the devastation we see behind our building, we are grateful that, as far as we know, there were no injuries and our building was spared.

You have probably seen pictures of the incredible fire and equally incredible heroics from the Cleveland Heights Police, the Cleveland Heights Fire Department and the many other fire departments that worked together to contain this horrific fire, which seemed to refuse to give up. We are grateful our building remains intact thanks to their unprecedented efforts – a demonstration of our community’s determination to persevere.

This is truly devastating in light of our anticipation of the new development; however, we know we will survive and look forward to a renewed effort to re-build. Thankfully, the second building along Meadowbrook Road has begun accepting tenants, and we are excited to welcome them to our community, to enjoy the many restaurants and arts and cultural activities we have to offer.

Thank you for your concern and continued support as we all begin the new year and our 25th anniversary with vibrant arts programming that prevails despite this setback.

We hope to see you soon at Heights Arts!