Long time supporters of both WVIZ/PBS and 90.3 WCPN ideastream and Playhouse Square Foundation, Lois and Tom Stauffer have made a very generous gift of $500,000 to the Campaign for the Idea Center.
In making the gift, Mr. Stauffer noted that the One Playhouse Square building, now the Idea Center, was the home of the Stouffer Playhouse Square restaurant from 1936 – 1972. This 600-seat restaurant occupied the lower level, first floor and the mezzanine level facing Euclid Avenue. Mr. Stauffer began a 44-year career with Stouffers in 1954 and became the manager of Stouffer Playhouse Square restaurant in 1963. He later became President of Stouffer Hotels and Restaurants finally serving as President of Renaissance Hotels of America.
“The project appealed to both of us for many reasons; the commitment to strengthening downtown Cleveland, the educational value and for sentimental reasons” said Mr. Stauffer. The Stauffers have commemorated The Stouffer Mezzanine Landing, for the mezzanine level of the Stouffer Playhouse Square Restaurant. |
