Kerri Klatt

Staff Writer

Commodore Bookstore & More is expanding its shelves to local businesses.

“We have the books, it is the “& More” that we are focusing on,” said Patty Clark, Commodore Bookstore & More general manager. LCCC’s on-campus bookstore offers more than textbooks and school supplies. “This project is intended to be a win-win for both vendors and the campus” said Clark. Parking, distance, or transportation are issues for some students and community members. The vendors offered at the bookstore give those students and community members the access to options of products. “It’s a win-win for the partnership,” said Clark. “We are saying that we are not just a community college for students but here for the community as well.”

Erica Campbell, Retail Merchandising Clerk at Commodore Books & More is completing a staff institution project that is centered around LCCC’s locally focused initiative. “We are trying to create a locally focused area at the bookstore where we can locate, grow, and give back to the community,” said Campbell. For instance, Suzin L. Chocolatier located in downtown Elyria, has been a local business for over 25 years and is now available in the campus bookstore. “They are great for treat boxes, gifts, or a quick present,” said Campbell, “we have sold over 60 chocolate covered strawberries for Valentine’s Day.”

Josh Ruminski, a Cleveland high school student is turning an experience with suicide into a positive by creating his own business. “I wanted to create something for people that has really helped me,” said Josh Ruminski, Founder and owner of Happy Thoughts Candles Co. For every candle that is sold, 20 percent goes to a suicide prevention charity. “It is amazing to hear his story,” said Clark. Ruminski’s mission is fighting to end the stigma of mental illness as well as to promote suicide prevention. Happy Thoughts Co. hopes to promote societal change with each candle that comes with a positive message. “At the end of April, Ruminski will be doing a suicide prevention walk here at LCCC,” said Campbell.

Another vendor new to the bookstore is GV Art and Design. As the Cleveland sports are in high gear, LCCC will have the latest apparel available at the bookstore thanks to these two vendors. “We have local vendors that we can be supporting,” said Clark, “You have got to think outside the box, so we tied it in with vision 20/20.” Commodore Books & More tells a story with each product available. “We hope to continue it.”