Non-profit

Youth Mission Trip June 17-21: Giving Me Life!

Lakewood Presbyterian Church Youth Group will be joining with Middleburg Heights Community United Church of Christ for their triennial Mission Trip from June 17th-21st, themed: "Giving Me Life!"

Any 6th through 12th grader is welcome to join us for this unique experience. This is a great opportunity to build up community service hours, learn about your faith, and build friendships.

We will drive to Lotts Creek Community School (LCCS) www.lottscreek.org in Kentucky, where we will serve those in need. The school was founded in 1933 as a residential settlement school. What started as a small cabin, is now a three-story school with girls' and boys' dormitories. It is now home to Cordia School, a food pantry and thrift shop. They help provide scholarships, medical assistance, and home repair after hurricanes and major flooding.

Past projects with youth have included: rehab projects including replacing bathroom flooring in trailers, building a handicap ramp, playground rehabs, and painting. There is no need to be skilled in any of these areas. Training will be provided, and jobs will depend on the number of skilled leaders available.

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Volume 20, Issue 5, Posted 3:51 PM, 03.06.2024

Herb Guild Offers Scholarship To Westside Seniors

The Herb Guild Garden Club is offering a $2,000 scholarship to graduating high school seniors, as well as Lorain County Community College and Cuyahoga Community College current freshmen and sophomore students. Applicants must be residents of the State of Ohio and a U.S. citizen (international or foreign exchange students are not eligible). Only students with a proposed academic study in agriculture, agriscience, botany, culinary arts, environmental science, forestry, greenhouse and nursery management, horticulture, landscaping, and natural resource management are eligible for this scholarship.  

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Volume 20, Issue 4, Posted 1:44 PM, 02.21.2024

Save The Date: LWC's Women Honoring Women "A Fun Fashion Thrift Show"

The Lakewood Women’s Club Presents - Women Honoring Women 2024;

A FUN Fashion Thrift Show.

The Lakewood Women’s Club is once again hosting its annual Women Honoring Women Celebration (WHW) event to be held at Vosh on April 11th at 6:00 PM where we will be serving appetizers & drinks that are included with the cost of admission. 

The event showcases women who exemplify charitable service and economic enrichment in the Lakewood community and recognizes women for a variety of accomplishments ranging from both career, volunteer and philanthropic endeavors. This annual fundraiser helps fund our scholarship program that is awarded each year to a female Lakewood resident who is pursuing a higher education. 

This years scholarship will be in honor of Patty Ryan, Past President & CEO of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce who was one of the Community Leaders that helped us review our nominees every year for WHW.  

Our theme this year is a “FUN Fashion Thrift Show“ where we will be featuring & modeling local thrift store fashions currently available in their stores. We will also be featuring donated fashion items from our own LWC members collection available to purchase via silent auction. 

 

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Volume 20, Issue 4, Posted 1:44 PM, 02.21.2024

The Lakewood League Of Women Voters Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Honors Linda Beebe

The  Lakewood Chapter of the League of Women Voters is proud to recognize Linda Beebe as our 2024 honoree. The 4th Annual Mary Warren Impact Scholarship will be given in Linda’s name to recognize her 40 years of preserving public education. 

A recognized pillar of the Lakewood Chapter, former English teacher in Ireland, and Substitute teacher in Lakewood, Linda’s service is unmatched in the history of our city and state. Her commitment to protecting education accessibility for our community is unparalleled. 

To honor her value of preservation, Lakewood High School Seniors are invited to apply for the Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Honoring Linda Beebe. Applicants for the scholarship must be continuing their education, demonstrate volunteer service, and write an essay showing their understanding of democracy.  The essay for this year is, “Why is democracy important to preserve?” Applications can be found at: lwvgreatercleveland.org/Chapters/Lakewood/2024 Scholarship Contest.

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Volume 20, Issue 3, Posted 12:29 PM, 02.07.2024

Lakewood Kiwanis K Kids Awareness Week

February 12-16, 2024 is Kiwanis International recognition week for Kiwanis K Kids. Lakewood Kiwanis is proud to sponsor three K Kids Clubs in our community: Horace Mann Elementary School and Horizon Before And After Care at Harrison and Emerson Elementary Schools.

K Kids is the youngest youth leadership club in the Kiwanis family. Every K Kids club has a school/administrator advisor and Lakewood Kiwanian advisor. Each club has their leadership team of K Kids selected through essays submitted or elected at the beginning of school. After that is in place, the voting of projects by the kids is done for the year. Our K Kids projects include food drives, community trash cleanup in the Spring and local initiatives that they have chosen to do. The kids learn that they have a voice in the club and need to make the commitment to complete their projects. As advisors, we try to have different speakers come in to connect the kids to the community service they complete. Win-win for all. Lakewood Kiwanis also sponsors Builders Club at Harding Junior High.

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Volume 20, Issue 3, Posted 12:29 PM, 02.07.2024

LakewoodAlive To Honor Community Leaders With Awards At Loving Lakewood: Greatest Hits

The event will take place at The Lakewood Masonic Temple on Saturday, February 24

LakewoodAlive is excited to announce Julie Warren as the 2024 Founders Award recipient, and fellow community members Sandy & Dave Feicht, Galadriel Olsen, Tony Parker, Chuck & Terri Postel, and Despina Sarantopoulou as the 2024 Community Leader Award honorees to be recognized during Loving Lakewood: Greatest Hits on Saturday, February 24.

Each member of this honoree group has made a long-lasting impact on LakewoodAlive and our community. The Founders Award, recognizing one honoree annually, celebrates individuals who exemplify the vision of LakewoodAlive’s founding members to foster and sustain vibrant and welcoming neighborhoods. Community Leader Award recipients represent LakewoodAlive’s most dedicated volunteers and partners who have supported the organization’s work in the community. 

Julie Warren, co-owner of Erie Design, has been supporting Lakewood Alive for more than 15 years. Volunteering with numerous organizations in Lakewood, Julie has set aside a tremendous amount of time and talent to help further elevate LakewoodAlive’s programming in the community. Initially a volunteer, Julie joined LakewoodAlive’s board as a Chamber of Commerce designee in 2015. Since then, she has served as Development Chair and Vice President, and will be assuming the role of Board President in July of 2024. Julie has served as Chairperson of Loving Lakewood from its inception in 2014 when Lakewood Alive celebrated its 10-year anniversary. We are thrilled to recognize her at our 20th anniversary Loving Lakewood this year!

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Volume 20, Issue 3, Posted 12:29 PM, 02.07.2024

Local Legend Foundation And GV Arts & Design Inspire Young Minds At Legends In Training Program: Paint With The Pros

Harrison Elementary School, January 26, 2024

In a heartwarming collaboration, the Local Legend Foundation and GV Arts & Design recently hosted an extraordinary program at Harrison Elementary School. The Legends in Training (L.I.T) program, which took place on January 26, 2024, was a remarkable day of artistic exploration, collaboration, and invaluable life lessons for over 30 enthusiastic 5th graders.

Founded with a mission to inspire the next generation of legends by connecting them with public figures through sports, mentorship programs, and community events. The Local Legend Foundation has been making a positive impact since its inception in 2023. Established by a passionate Lakewood native, the foundation's commitment to fostering creativity and personal development aligns seamlessly with its founder's roots. More information about the foundation's initiatives and projects can be found on their website:www.locallegendfoundation.org.

What made the Legends in Training program at Harrison Elementary School particularly special was the personal connection between the foundation's founder Shaun Crawford and the school. Mr. Crawford’s mother Sabrina Crawford none other than the principal of Harrison Elementary, adding a deeply personal touch to the event. This familial tie underscored the foundation's dedication to making a meaningful impact on the local community, especially in places of personal significance.

Partnering with GV Arts & Design brought the program a wealth of artistic expertise. The artists from GV Arts & Design shared their knowledge of various art forms and imparted valuable life skills. The collaboration aimed to demonstrate that art is a form of self-expression and a medium through which essential life skills such as communication, collaboration, and maintaining a growth mindset can be cultivated.

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Volume 20, Issue 3, Posted 12:29 PM, 02.07.2024

Lakewood Community Services Center Seeks Volunteers!

If you have a few hours to spare each week and if you want to join LCSC in the fight to end hunger in the community, these volunteer opportunities could be a perfect fit for you.

LCSC is the emergency food pantry for Lakewood, Rocky River and Westlake and we could use some dedicated help during the hours of 9:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. We currently provide food assistance to over 2800 individuals each month! We could not do this important work without our volunteers.Pantry volunteers are responsible for making sure that there is a consistent flow of emergency food available to make sure that clients are served quickly and efficiently.

If you are interested in finding out more please contact Colleen Timm at 216-226-6466.

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Volume 20, Issue 2, Posted 1:15 PM, 01.24.2024

Lakewood Kiwanis Is Calling All Graduating High School Seniors

--who live in Lakewood. We have scholarships to award.

The Kiwanis Club of Lakewood is proud to be offering its 2024 scholarship program to graduating high school seniors. The club’s foundation increased the awards to FOURTEEN $10,000 scholarships, $2500 per year for 4 years each. We are approaching 3 million in scholarships awarded since 1956. 

Edward Hadaway, Kiwanis scholarship committee chairman said, “Eligible applicants can be students at any accredited high school but must be a resident of Lakewood and a citizen of the United States. They must demonstrate academic success in high school and must have applied to one or more specific college or university. Winners will be chosen based on need for financial assistance; community involvement and service; with qualities of leadership, honesty, loyalty, diligence and participation in extracurricular activities.”

Applications and contact information is online at https://www.kiwanisfoundation.com/scholarships. Please submit by April 1, 2024. 

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Volume 20, Issue 2, Posted 1:15 PM, 01.24.2024

Documentary About Women In The Church Struggling For Acceptance For 50 Years Airing In Lakewood

A feature documentary about women struggling for their right to become priests in the Episcopal Church wil be screened on Sunday, February 4th. The screening will start at 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 18001 Detroit Ave., Lakewood.

"The Philadelphia Eleven" tells the compelling story of a group of eleven women who were ordained to the Episcopal priesthood in violation of the constitution and canons of the Church – which at the time stated that only men were eligible for ordination. St. Peter's parishioner Reverand Nancy H. Wittig is one of the eleven and will be featured in a Q&A following the screening. The Reverand Wittig says, “It’s amazing that women are still fighting for rights in the church, and continuing to feel blowback, similar to what we experienced 49 years ago.” She went on to say, “We are proud of the changes we have accomplished through our priesthood and the ordinations in Philadelphia.”

This film tells a story that continues to resonate today as women seeking ordination continue to face resistance, disrespect and exclusion from roles reserved by men for men. The documentary explores the lives of these remarkable women who succeeded in transforming an age-old institution despite threats to their personal safety and the risk of rejection by the church they loved.

These women became and remain an inspiration for generations of women in the ministry, and a clarion call for the entire Christian Church.

Lorna Jordan has lived in Lakewood for 20 years and has been a member of St. Peter's Episcopal church in Lakewood for 18.

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Volume 20, Issue 2, Posted 1:15 PM, 01.24.2024

League Of Women Voters Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Winner Lila Wright's Winning Essay

Why is Equal Representation important?

More than ever, the modern day demands equal representation. When one first hears the phrase “equal representation,” the connotation often refers to political representation. Representation of different races, genders, ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, and life experiences in the people that we’ve elected to lead our communities and country as a whole. This type of equal representation that one typically thinks of is extremely important; as leaders in politics are in charge of making decisions for the greater good of the community, they should absolutely be representative of the myriad of demographics our community exhibits. Still, it’s important to recognize and explore the other ways in which equal representation is equally as important.

Children grow up as mirrors of the people that surround them from a young age. They reflect the behaviors, attitudes, and ideas of those that they see most often. Just one example of this is a young person’s political beliefs; if one grows up in a primarily democratic household, they are likely to identify with the beliefs of the democratic party, and vice versa. Just as we see this reflection of surroundings in politics, children easily reflect other parts of their environments. The turn of the 21st century and the ever increasing capabilities of technology continue to enhance the prominence of media in our lives. While actors, musicians, influencers, and other public figures may only be humans like everyone else, they hold more power than one might think. Equal representation is equally as important in the media as it is in politics. 

If children grow up from a young age, only ever seeing a certain specific demographic on the media, that will create stigmas and contribute to widely believed misconceptions. Only having white, middleclass, heterosexual characters as the prominent characters in most movies is extremely harmful. Anyone who doesn’t fit into that classification might start to believe they aren’t as worthy, and that they don’t reflect the personification of the ideal American. 

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Volume 20, Issue 1, Posted 1:59 PM, 01.10.2024

Community West Foundation Awards $765,500 In Fourth Quarter Grants

The Community West Foundation Board of Directors approved $640,500 in fourth quarter grants to nonprofit agencies that are located in Cleveland, Western Cuyahoga and Lorain Counties. An additional $125,000 was distributed through their Community Impact Fund bringing the grand total to $765,500. The Community Impact Fund was established for donors who want to invest alongside Community West’s mission knowing that contributions would be distributed directly to grantees quarterly.  

For the fourth quarter, Community West Foundation provided grants to community service nonprofits that provide a variety of services and other unique programs.

Organizations receiving grants include: 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 24, Posted 3:43 PM, 12.20.2023

Scavenger Hunt Winners Had Fun Finding Lakewood!

Prizes were awarded to ten participants from among all those who completed the Photo Scavenger Hunt successfully!

Pictured are some of our winners: Linda Rocchi & Suzanne Bednarchik, Hannah Kasamias, Deborah Kuhn, Kirk Lintern, Janice Snyder. (Winners not pictured: Linda O'Malley, Virginia Coughlin, Jillian Piteo, Jackie Smith)

Prizes were donated by 43 generous Lakewood businesses, making for some very nice gift packages.

Keep an eye out next fall for another Scavenger Hunt. Proceeds benefit the Division of Aging, but all ages can join the hunt!

Sponsored by the Lakewood Commission on Aging Advisory Council.

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Volume 19, Issue 23, Posted 12:42 PM, 12.06.2023

LCAC Wraps Up Thanksgiving Food Drive, Prepares For Christmas Food Drive

With the help of dozens of Lakewood community members, Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corporation was able to deliver non-perishable and perishable bags filled with Thanksgiving fixings to 300 Lakewood residences. 

This was part of LCAC’s Thanksgiving Food Drive, which took place over the weekend before Thanksgiving. 

On Nov. 17, volunteers came in the morning to sort all the non-perishable food within an hour. Later that night, more volunteers came to bag the non-perishable food into 300 bags, taking less than an hour. 

On Nov. 18, volunteers came to bag all of the perishable foods like turkeys and pies and were off to deliver to residences within the hour. 

With the Thanksgiving Food Drive over, LCAC is already back in full swing to prepare for its Christmas Food Drive which will take place at the Lakewood Masonic Temple, at 15300 Detroit Ave., over two days.  

On Dec. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., non-perishable food donations will be sorted. Later that evening, LCAC members and volunteers will gather from 6-7:30 p.m. to bag non-perishable food. 

On Dec. 16 from 9 a.m. to noon, LCAC members and volunteers will bag perishable food and then hand deliver both non-perishable and perishable bags filled with food fixings to the community. 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 23, Posted 12:42 PM, 12.06.2023

Healthy Lakewood Foundation Awards Over $140,000 In Support Of Community-Based Projects

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) Board of Directors awarded $140,820 in grants at its November Board meeting.

The HLF Board awarded Neighborhood Opportunity Grants for a total of $125,820 in funding to local organizations for community-based projects that support community building through innovation and learning. These projects address social determinants of health – the environmental, social, and economic conditions of our community – through local programs and initiatives.

Awarded Neighborhood Opportunity Grants include:

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Volume 19, Issue 23, Posted 12:42 PM, 12.06.2023

Light Up Lakewood Returns December 2

The most joyous of Lakewood traditions is returning to Downtown Lakewood for the 17th annual celebration. The spirit of the season will come to life with holiday cheer when Light Up Lakewood 2023 takes place on Saturday, December 2 from 4 to 8 p.m.

Sponsored by First Federal Lakewood and presented by LakewoodAlive, Light Up Lakewood celebrates the season and the richness of our city’s vibrancy. This free, family-friendly event on Detroit Avenue in Downtown Lakewood features a holiday parade, lighting ceremony, winter fireworks, The Roundstone Beer Garden, Holiday Train, live music, ice carvings, hot chocolate, food trucks, children’s games and more.

Attendees are invited to stroll Lakewood's downtown district and visit local shops and restaurants while taking in the sights and sounds of one of Northeast Ohio's largest holiday celebrations. Light Up Lakewood serves as a marquee event for the entire region.

Light Up Lakewood represents a long-held holiday celebration of Lakewood’s sense of community. Guests will be delighted by the festive atmosphere which includes the twinkle of holiday lights, the cheerful sounds of carolers and the warmth of hot beverages.

Highlights include indoor the Holiday Market; The Roundstone Beer Garden sponsored by Roundstone Insurance; the ever-popular Holiday Parade sponsored by Shinn Law Firm, which commences at Belle & Detroit Avenues at 5 p.m. and ends at Arthur Avenue; the Lighting Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. at City Center Park and a can't-miss fireworks show at 7 p.m. over Kauffman Park.

Schedule of Events for Light Up Lakewood 2023:

  • 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. – Ongoing performances with a surprise visitor
  • 4 p.m. – Festival Kickoff
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Volume 19, Issue 22, Posted 11:05 AM, 11.22.2023

25 Local Nonprofits Receive $2 Million To Improve Equitable Access To Care - Three Arches Foundation Announces 2023 Annual Grants

Three Arches Foundation, a community-focused grant making foundation, announced $2 million in annual funding toward one-year and multi-year grants to twenty-five local nonprofit organizations working to transform people’s health in Lakewood and surrounding communities. Each grant reflects the Foundation’s priority of equitable access to care, specifically the advancement of solutions to remove barriers and improve behavioral and physical health.

This year’s grants will help expand existing programs and services, fund new initiatives, and support general operations. “Nineteen of the nonprofit organizations receiving grants this year are nonprofits the Foundation has supported in the past, and six are new recipients,” shared Kristin Broadbent, president and CEO of the Foundation. “This represents a deliberate strategy to both build long-term relationships and expand our reach with new grant partners who are aligned with our focus ofaddressing equitable access to meet diverse health care needs.”

The Foundation adopted trust-based philanthropy practices in order to deepen relationships and impact with its grant partners. This grantee-centric view fosters continuous learning, balanced power, and transparency that puts nonprofit organizations at the core of the relationship. “Our approach – informed through a racial and health equity lens – helps us learn firsthand where there are barriers to access for under-resourced communities and populations most impacted by health disparities,” comments Mary Anne Crampton, board chair of the Foundation. “It’s not about guessing where funding should be directed, but rather getting grant funding where it’s most needed.”

 

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Volume 19, Issue 22, Posted 11:05 AM, 11.22.2023

West Shore Meals On Wheels: 50 Years Of Service To West Shore Communities

In 1973, a group of churches got together to create a Meals on Wheels program on the west side. November 20 of that year was the first board meeting, featuring all women -- women with a mission. Originally available to Rocky River, Fairview Park, Bay Village, Westlake and North Olmsted recipients, they modeled the Lakewood Meals on Wheels program, which was already in existence, providing low-cost meals to seniors or those who could not shop or prepare meals for themselves. Some recipients were elderly; others were disabled or recovering from an illness. On Dec. 6, 1973, the organization was officially incorporated as West Shore Meals on Wheels.

Fairview Baptist Church on Lorain Road originally provided space where the meals were prepared. The first meals were delivered on Jan. 7, 1974. There were 24 signed-on recipients as the first drivers pulled out of the church parking lot, delivering Monday through Friday for $11 per week - a little over $2 per meal - with the fresh, homemade meals made by the hands of the kitchen help.

Eventually, Fairview production moved production to City Hall, and the Rocky River Kitchen opened at Good Soil Church on Hilliard. Lakewood Meals on Wheels merged with West Shore Meals on Wheels in 2017, and moved their daily production needs to the Rocky River Kitchen. Meals are made fresh, home cooked every day, and include lunch and dinner offerered 5 days a week.

Today, the two facilities service over 100 recipients, crafting over 700 meals per week with the help of 100+ volunteers. 

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Volume 19, Issue 22, Posted 11:05 AM, 11.22.2023

Holiday Cookie Walk And More At Church Of The Ascension, Dec 9

Come and purchase your holiday baked goods along with crafts and fresh festive greens at Church of the Ascension on Saturday, December 9th at the Church of the Ascension Cookie Walk. Members of the congregation bake their family’s favorite cookie recipes as well as heirloom recipes that have been passed down through generations. Preparing homemade cookie trays for your holiday parties has never been easier than shopping at the Ascension Cookie Walk.

Homemade jams, jellies, pickles and pies will be available too.  

Amish trail bologna and Swiss cheese from Trail Ohio will be available for purchase. To pre-order your sausage and cheese call Church of the Ascension at 216-973-8077.

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Volume 19, Issue 21, Posted 9:45 AM, 11.08.2023

League Of Women Voters Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Winner Charlotte Beno's Winning Essay

This past summer (2022), the Supreme Court overturned the landmark case Roe v. Wade. The Dobbs decision, as it revoked a precedent set almost fifty years prior, stripped away women's bodily autonomy across the country. Despite the fact that a majority of the country did not support the overturning of Roe, the court went ahead with the decision, even after resistance. At the time of the decision, three of the nine justices were women.

Lakewood High School proudly teaches AP African American Studies. That same class has been banned in the state of Florida. Governor DeSantis argues that the class lacks educational value and pushes a political agenda. This continues the erasure of Black history from the public school curriculum. Seventeen percent of Florida's population is Black.

On February 13, a mass shooting occurred at Michigan State University. Three students lost their lives and others were injured. One of the students on campus that day was a survivor of the Sandy Hook Shooting, eleven years prior. In the United States, there are young adults who have lived through multiple mass shootings. Meanwhile, politicians are wearing assault rifle pins on the floor of Congress. 

Issues like these are why equal representation matters. Politics in America has become increasingly divided in recent years, and this has come at the expense of the people. The wants of the people are not being represented in government. We can see evidence of this when we look at our current legislature and court. Despite this being the most diverse Congress in history, it is still not an accurate picture of the nation. Women only make up 28% of Congress, and racial minorities only make up about a quarter. Our government does not mirror the makeup of the population. And because of this, we are seeing legislation (and lack there of) that does not reflect the beliefs of the people. This has become glaringly apparent with the election of Donald Trump and what followed. Young people have demonstrated their desire for change. Our government has to look different than it has for our entire history.

 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 21, Posted 9:45 AM, 11.08.2023

YMCA First Annual Bowl-A-Thon Needs Your Support

The board of your Lakewood Family YMCA is hosting the First Annual Bowl-A-Thon to raise funds for our Annual Campaign. The donations raised here, stay here in Lakewood, to help seniors, children, and others attend camps and activities regardless of their ability to pay.  

The event will take place at Mahall’s on Friday, November 17 from 6-8pm. Ten teams will compete in 3 competitions: bowling, fundraising and fashion. If you enjoy competition, value connection, and like to laugh, we are looking for a few more teams. Please contact Leighann at the Lakewood YMCA 216-521-8400 for direction. 

Not a bowler? No fashion sense? You are welcome to attend! Buy a ticket to watch the bowling, have a snack and drink, and participate in the gift baskets drawings.  https://secure.qgiv.com/event/lakewoodbowl2023/

Can’t attend? Consider helping a bowling team with a generous donation. Darcy’s Pure Strength Strikers is a strength training class for women to stay strong and stay connected. You can see the teams and make a donation of support to the YMCA by visiting https://secure.qgiv.com/event/lakewoodbowl2023/

 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 21, Posted 9:45 AM, 11.08.2023

LCAC Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive Back In Mid-November

For over 30 years, Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corp. has provided holiday food baskets for hundreds of Lakewood families and senior citizens. As the weather changes and the holiday season approaches, LCAC is getting ready for its Thanksgiving Food Drive to serve Lakewood residents in need. This neighborhood tradition is only possible with the support of the entire community. 

The LCAC Thanksgiving Food Drive will take place at the Lakewood Masonic Temple, at 15300 Detroit Ave., over two days.

On Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., non-perishable food donations will be sorted. Later that evening, LCAC members and volunteers will gather from 6-7:30 p.m. to bag non-perishable food. 

On Nov. 18 from 9 a.m. to noon, LCAC members and volunteers will bag perishable food and then hand-deliver both non-perishable and perishable bags filled with Thanksgiving fixings to the community. 

The event will be held regardless of the weather, so dress accordingly to stay warm and dry.

Volunteers are welcome to join as little or as much as they’d like… better yet, bring friends, family and neighbors!

In addition, make sure to mark the calendar for Dec. 15 and Dec. 16, when LCAC does it all over again at its Christmas Food Drive. 

For more information or to make a monetary donation, visit www.LCAC.info. Make sure to follow Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corporation on Facebook and on Instagram at @lcacfooddrives for updates on the Thanksgiving Food Drive and to keep up-to-date with the organization.

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Volume 19, Issue 21, Posted 9:45 AM, 11.08.2023

Join Us For The Lakewood Photo Scavenger Hunt!

Think you know Lakewood? Try the Lakewood Photo Scavenger Hunt and see! Contest runs Oct. 25 to Nov. 1. Sign up NOW. On Oct. 25 you'll receive an email with instructions and photos of features around Lakewood to identify! Answer correctly to be in a drawing for Amazing Prizes! Entry fee is $10, payable as a donation on the Lakewood Foundation website (www.thelakewoodfoundation.org). Please select "Commission on Aging" when submitting your payment. Or pay with cash at Cove Community Center, 12525 Lake Ave - photos available on paper or email on Oct. 25. All proceeds go to the Lakewood Division of Aging! Contact lakewoodphotocontest@gmail.com with questions.

Laura Hazen lives and works in Lakewood and she loves it. She works for both Hanson Services and Sweet Designs. She volunteers for a couple community groups, in particular, the Division on Aging.

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Volume 19, Issue 20, Posted 3:10 PM, 10.18.2023

League Of Women Voters Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Winner Elliott Snyder's Winning Essay

Why is equal representaion important?

Equal representation has many definitions, you could interpret it as the methods by which people are represented, or by the way that representatives are assigned to voting groups, with equal representation meaning that all groups are fairly represented. Equal Representation is crucial to have rights for everyone and to be understood by certain groups of people who are just like you. Equal representation is how women have rights to privacy or how women have the right to vote. Equal representation is how people of color have the right to be citizens and also have the right to vote. Equal representation is how LGBTQ+ rights have slowly begun to improve. 

Equal representation is not needed in just government. It is needed in schools, sports, the workplace, and everywhere else. In sports we look at the first trans woman to win a gold medal in swimming in the Olympics, this provides young people who identify as a different gender hope that they can do whatever inspires them. In schools and public places we allow everyone to be equal, boys and girls aren’t compared as much. Same with the workplace, now women are bosses. Women are business owners and hold more power because of equal representation. Because of equal representation women of all kinds come together to get the rights they deserve.

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Volume 19, Issue 19, Posted 11:59 AM, 10.04.2023

Connecting For Kids October Programs In Lakewood

Registration is required for these programs. Register online: www.connectingforkids.org/register,

via email: info@connectingforkids.org or Call/Text: 440-570-5908.

 Inclusive Drop-In

Join Connecting for Kids and Lakewood Family Room for our inclusive playgroup! This program is open to families and their children ages 0-6, with or without concerns about development. Caregivers will have a chance to get hands-on support, meet other families and connect to community resources. Led by an experienced Early Intervention Support Coordinator and CFK staff, children and caregivers will have the opportunity to learn strategies for dealing with behavior challenges, communication concerns and sensory issues. Registration is welcome but not required. This program is in partnership with Lakewood Family Room and is funded by the Healthy Lakewood Foundation. 

Thursday, Oct. 12, 9:30 a.m.

Lakewood Family Room at Cove Community Center, 12525 Lake Ave.

 Workshop: Navigating IEPs, 504s & ETRs

What is the difference between an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and 504 plan? How do you request an evaluation if you suspect your child could use some additional support? What is an Evaluation Team Report (ETR)? Navigating the world of special education may seem overwhelming at first. Join Connecting for Kids staff as they help you understand the process so that you can more effectively work with the school to help your child. Families will have the chance to engage in breakout sessions to talk about specific IEP or 504 concerns.

 

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Volume 19, Issue 19, Posted 11:59 AM, 10.04.2023

Lakewood Kiwanis And 'Sleep In Heavenly Peace' Say Thank You To Our Lakewood Community

On Sept 5th in the parking lot of St Clement’s church, Lakewood Kiwanis, the Near West Theatre, Ms Young, the Policard family, Christine and Ian Brown (Cleveland Elite VB) and Lakewood residents donated new pillows, new sheets, new blankets and comforters to SHP (#Sleep in Heavenly Peace). This organization's motto is “No child sleeps on the floor in our town.” The linens collected Sept. 5th will be donated to the nationwide Bunks Across America Bed Build on September 9th. SHP is hoping to build 90-100 beds in the Lowe’s parking lot in Rocky River. Kiwanis collection will supply bedding for over 25 of the beds being built.

Lakewood Kiwanis’ tag is #KidsNeedKiwanis and this collection was just another opportunity for the Lakewood organization to partner with kids. 

Thank you to our community. Please join us for our next service project. 

www.LakewoodKiwanis

#KidsNeedKiwanis 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 18, Posted 11:03 AM, 09.20.2023

LSC Service Corp, Lakewood Senior Citizens Inc, Barton Center Memorial Foundation And The Barton Senior Center Announce Significant Milestone And Rebrand To Barton Communities

Barton Communities, a leading provider of affordable housing and resident engagement services for older adults, announces a significant milestone in its commitment to the Lakewood community and beyond. After careful consideration and strategic planning, the organizations have embarked on a comprehensive rename and rebranding effort that will revolutionize its approach to fulfilling its mission.

The new name, "Barton Communities," marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for the organization, symbolizing its unwavering dedication to innovation, inclusivity, and the delivery of exceptional services. This rebranding initiative goes beyond a mere cosmetic change; it epitomizes Barton Communities' continued focus on meeting the diverse needs of older adults and fostering a thriving, empowered community.

"This effort is a strategic move that aligns with our commitment to growth and adaptation,” said Donnald Heckelmoser, Jr., President and CEO of Barton Communities. “We will be better positioned to tackle the emerging challenges and opportunities in our field, enabling us to provide even higher levels of service to the older adults in our community."

Over the past sixty years, Barton Communities has been at the forefront of creating safe, secure, and affordable housing options for older adults, alongside a comprehensive range of services, activities, and programs designed to promote resident independence and enhance their quality of life. However, in anticipation of future needs, the organization recognizes the imperative for growth and adaptation to continue meeting its mission effectively.

 

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Volume 19, Issue 18, Posted 11:03 AM, 09.20.2023

League Of Women Voters Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Winner Jay Schmoldt's Winning Essay

Why is equal representation important?

America is a country that was originally built under the principle of freedom for all. When the founders came together with a vision for this nation, they wanted it to be fair. To be equal. We were meant to be a place welcome to all. No tyranny. No unfair government regulations and rules. No federal injustice. We were meant to be the most free country in the world. A melting pot of different languages, races, viewpoints, cultures, backgrounds, etc. We were meant to be a place where anyone could feel welcome. Could feel a sense of belonging.

And for our entire existence, we have not been.

America has not been equal. We have not been fair. For most of our history, if you weren't a white European, you were not welcome by a larger portion of our population. You were seen as inferior. Treated as less than human. Yes, over time this has gotten better. And it will continue to get better. But it will never be perfect. It can't be-- it's not possible. At the end of the day, we are all still people. There are good people. And there are bad people. Although the majority of the country wants to strive for equality and strive for equal representation, there are many that do not. They don't want to see people who don't look like them succeed. They want more of the same. More of themselves. It's why striving for equal representation is so important. Because in a country long dictated by one culture in every way, everyone wants to see themselves represented. 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 18, Posted 11:03 AM, 09.20.2023

League Of Women Voters Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Winner Alexandra Horton's Winning Essay

As a country, we’ve all most always been led to believe that everyone living in the United States is equal. However with the current political climate and the increase in movements for equality, one can’t help but constantly wonder, “Are we truly equal?” As a young, queer woman, I am constantly questioning whether all of my rights as a human being will be repealed in a blink of an eye, especially considering the overturning of the landmark Supreme Court case, Roe v. Wade. I can’t help but have some fear that one day, I could be treated solely as an object and a vessel to grow and carry a fetus for 9 months, and giving birth is my only purpose in life. I’m scared that as a country and society we will continue to take multiple steps backwards after so many people have fought so valiantly for equal rights. 

While I fear that my rights may be stripped away from me one day, I also fear for the rights of others in more oppressed minorities. I can only imagine the kind of fear that may go through the heads of so many black, trans women, and what other thoughts may be rumbling around in their heads. This kind of fear shouldn’t even exist. Women, queer and trans people, Black, Asian, Hispanic, and Native American citizens shouldn’t have to fear for their lives and their rights.

So why is equal representation important anyways? Without equal representation, the United States would regress to where inequality was sky high, essentially destroying all the hard work and effort so many people put into civil rights movements. As the U.S. continues to get older, more immigrants are coming into the country as all of the different cultures and religions continue to mix and mingle with each other. With the increase in diversity, this only continues to justify the need for equal representation. Equal representation would not only act as a way to get every American citizen to be an equal, but it would act as a way to show minorities that the government and all other citizens care about them and their well being. 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 18, Posted 11:03 AM, 09.20.2023

Healthy Lakewood Foundation Awards $180,000 In Community Grants And Is Accepting Applications For Neighborhood Opportunity Grants Funding

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) Board of Directors awarded $180,000 in funding for its Community Grants program at its July Board meeting. Seven area organizations were granted funds to advance programs that address social determinants of health and address critical needs in the community.

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Volume 19, Issue 16, Posted 8:38 AM, 08.17.2023

Healthy Lakewood Foundation Elects New Resident Board Member, Rachel Williams

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) is excited to announce the appointment of Rachel Williams to its Board of Directors. Rachel, a Lakewood resident, was nominated at the HLF Board’s July meeting and brings an array of valuable skills and experience to the Foundation. Currently, Rachel serves as a Community Development Corporation (CDC) Relationship Manager with Cleveland Neighborhood Progress (CNP) where she oversees a portfolio of five Cleveland CDCs to broker access to CNP services and support the success of their action plans.

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Volume 19, Issue 16, Posted 8:38 AM, 08.17.2023

Summer School Supply Drive 2023

Thank you to the Lakewood community for supporting Supplies 4 Success’ city-wide school supply collection drive over the past 12 years! So many Lakewood students and families have been supported by your giving.

Believe it or not, it’s that special time of year again. Back to School shopping! While most of you probably remember the excitement of picking out new school supplies-- there is just something about the possibilities of a brand new notebook-- many of our local students’ families are unable to afford even the most basic of school supplies.  

That is where our amazing community comes in: Supplies4Success (a committee of the Lakewood Area Collaborative and supported by The Lakewood Foundation) aims to bridge the gap for those in need.

Fundraising has allowed us to purchase and donate graphing calculators to be part of a calculator library at Lakewood High School, purchase headsets (a new need in the 21st century classroom) and create supply closets in each of our buildings. However, the majority of the supplies come from donations from the Lakewood community – one notebook, binder, or pack of pencils at a time.

It is so important for our students to have the necessary supplies for academic success. Sometimes we do not realize supplies are needed ahead of time so having them available is an incredible help to our students and families. 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 15, Posted 2:44 PM, 08.02.2023

Lakewood Women’s Club Honors Charlotte Beno With Our 2023 Scholarship

Each year, the Lakewood Women’s Club (LWC) awards a scholarship to a young woman graduating high school who plans to continue on to a higher education institution. 

This year we are proud to announce that Charlotte Beno is our 2023 scholarship honoree. Charlotte states that she is “currently undecided and will be entering Ohio State's Exploration program. I hope to take classes in psychology, political science, and writing as I attempt to decide on a major. I want to take advantage of all the possible majors that OSU has to offer, and I think that it's a perfect way to learn as much as I can while studying subjects that I'm interested in pursuing. I have also taken a number of AP classes, which will help me fulfill my general requirements, so I can fully take advantage of the exploration opportunities.” 

The Lakewood Women’s Club is a philanthropic organization that hosts a fundraiser each year entitled “Women Honoring Women,” with proceeds going to the Scholarship Program. The more we raise during our celebration that honors and awards business and community women leaders, the more we are able to pay forward to our scholarship honoree. It's a wonderful way to continuously support and recognize the young women just starting out and the more established women in Lakewood.

The Scholarship Program was created many years ago and is one of the pride and joys of the club. Each year a committee of members join together to review the applications that have been submitted. For those members who have been part of the committee, as I have in the past, it is always a highlight of the year to review the applications. It’s simply amazing how talented and driven our applicants are; we are proud of the education that young women are receiving in our community.

 

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Volume 19, Issue 14, Posted 1:59 PM, 07.19.2023

League of Women Voters Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Winner James A. Holland's Winning Essay

Why is Equal Representation Important?

In 1935, Langston Hughes bravely wrote, “I say it plain, America never was America to me, and yet I swear this oath — America will be!” Despite its past, each of us, Hughes included, are taught early on what “America” means. We are told of our nation’s great and honorable ‘fathers,’ we are oriented in the democratic ways and processes of our nation. Young children across the United States, whether they be poor, wealthy, white, or black, are (and have been) taught a founding principle of this country: “All men are created equal.” 

Langston Hughes then deserves great admiration for his courageous observation: there are two different Americas. The America of legend and tale, the one of grand revolutionary justice and a penchant for freedom and equality — and conversely, as Hughes put it, “America to me.” The America of material and reality is a far cry from the dream of America. To the poor black Harlem poet, to the estranged and excluded Indian, to the occupied Vietnamese family, to the defeated railroad unionist, America has not been equal and just. “There’s never been equality for me, nor freedom in this ‘homeland of the free.’” 

The picture of America that is then painted seems bleak indeed. But Hughes dismisses any creeping sense of pessimism with a critical word: “yet.” For all those who struggle in America — those who struggle for justice and equal representation — struggle spectacularly. The abolitionists and the freedom-fighters, the labor unions and the strikers, the civil rights leaders and the suffragettes: they did not surrender their dream. A bright and inextinguishable optimism burns through the inequality of America — the goal, the knowledge that, eventually, “America will be!” Summarized by the immortalized Dr. King only a few decades later, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” No matter how far we have left to go, there is but one direction: forward. 

And so, what is vital in equal representation? In it, we find the next step in our arc towards justice. For too long have the voices of the few dominated the voices of the many. The ruling powers that prevail hegemonize our culture — so that the experiences, memories, and struggles of black Americans, native Americans, poor Americans, and non-conforming Americans are left out. If we continue to leave these stories out of our history, then America will be a wound that never heals. But imagine what could come if the stories of all were heard with equal fervor, and equal love. If we represent all of America equally, in our textbooks, our institutions, our voting booths, and our history, then “America will be America again.”

James is planning on attending college in the fall of 2023 to study history, anthropology, or other social sciences.

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Volume 19, Issue 14, Posted 1:59 PM, 07.19.2023

Second Annual Lakewood GardenWalk To Be Held July 15

The second annual Lakewood GardenWalk will be held on Saturday, July 15 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., when residents, community organizations and businesses throughout Lakewood will open their gardens and yards for free self-guided tours.

Issue 1 would:                                         

  • Require any future constitutional amendment to be approved by at least 60% of the voters.
  • Require signatures of at least 5% of the electors in each of the 88 counties, instead of 44 counties.
  • Eliminate the 10-day period to file additional signatures for an initiated constitutional amendment.

This proposed amendment destroys the principle of “One Person, One Vote.” Without a doubt, Issue 1 oppresses the individual rights of all voters.

Don’t be fooled by the drafters’ ruse of falsely titling Issue 1 “elevating the standards to qualify for and to pass any constitutional amendment.” Should Issue 1 pass, the standards would not be “elevated”—instead, they will be utterly eradicated. The current standard for passing constitutional amendments is by a simple majority (50%+1). This standard has been inscribed into the Ohio Constitution since 1912 and has been the way in which our state has voted for the past 111 years. Ohio is still governed as a democracy. By definition, the word “democracy” means “rule by the people”—this means that our government relies on the participation of the people in the political process in order to function properly. However, our democracy would be thwarted by the implementation of Issue 1, insomuch as the approval of Issue 1 would give extremist legislators an almost absolute power to assert their control over Ohioans and the state legislature by passing their own nefarious bills without much penalty while ignoring the demands of voters. Outside groups are bankrolling Issue 1 because if it passes—the not-everyday citizens will be the only ones to be able to bring forward ballot measures.

It’s imperative that Ohioans vote to protect our freedom and are registered to vote by July 10th in order to vote in the August 8th election. It is no surprise, however, that the gerrymandered super-majority has attempted to make it increasingly more difficult to cast a vote in Ohio. In order to vote in person, Ohio law now requires a valid, unexpired photo ID (this includes a driver’s license, state ID card from the BMV, military ID card, or U.S. passport). Voting by mail doesn’t require a photo ID, and you can go to VoteOhio.gov to register for an absentee ballot with your current address.

Protect your rights as Ohio voters. Let’s keep “One Person, One Vote” in Ohio and vote “No” on Issue 1—your vote can and will determine the future of Ohio.

Antonio serves as Highest Ranking Member on the Senate Health, Transportation, and Rules and Reference Committees. Additionally, she is a member of the Ohio House Democratic Women's Caucus, previously as chair, and is the State Director for the National Women Legislators’ Lobby.

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Volume 19, Issue 13, Posted 6:16 PM, 07.05.2023

League of Women Voters Mary Warren Impact Scholarship Winner Sophie Craciun's Winning Essay

Why is Equal Representation Important?

Government is a tipping scale with weights on each side. Unlike the fragile system some citizens deem it to be, it is balanced properly, able to simultaneously protect and rule over the United States with firm vigor and zeal. This government, however, was not created until the 1700s, and even then, Equal Representation was nonexistent. Only today do we see some semblance of proportional and Equal Representation, and even still, there are many cracks and flaws in our revered system.

In order to prevent violence or distrust and maintain a fairly peaceful existence, the people must feel that they are being equally represented within their own states and districts. To combat an uprising, the government is split into a bicameral legislature with a House of Representatives and a Senate. Each state is provided with 2 senators, while the number of House Members is determined by population. Despite this seemingly solid establishment, when it comes time for voting, it is still possible to "cheat." Every state is required to redistrict (or draw new legislative boundaries that influence the number of seats in the House of Representatives) every 10 years. Unfortunately, some political groups have found that it is possible to sway the results of the election by gerrymandering — manipulating the boundaries of the congressional districts. Because of this and the Electoral College System, which makes it possible for the popular election victor to still lose the general election, many citizens feel that their votes don't matter.  

To truly have Equal Representation, it is important that the people — who keep the equally weighted sides of Government from crashing to the ground — feel that they are living under representatives who would make the same choices that they make. Having a diverse group of government officials that resemble the actual population is the solution. The government is slowly becoming more diverse, two examples of this being Barack Obama, the first black president, and Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first black female supreme court justice. Additionally, in 2021, just over a quarter of the members of congress were female — a record-breaking number that continues to increase. It’s crucial that minorities continue to get the representation that they deserve, and that equality continues to climb in the right direction. 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 13, Posted 6:16 PM, 07.05.2023

Community Talent Invitation

The Donna Walton Gospel Network, is a 501c3 nonprofit organization of the arts that gives local and national independent recording artists outlets through our television, radio, newsletters, and live performances. DWGN provides a promotional platform for artists who wish to express their abilities but may not have the resources for mainstream broadcasting. Supporters enable DWGN to pay for service costs and spread awareness of a wide range of artists both locally and nationally.

Our network recognizes and appreciates the value of local assistance. We cooperate with the neighborhood and participate in neighborhood events because of this. The community benefits from these local acts, which also uplifts the attendees' morale.

Additionally, DWGN schedules nationwide shows that provide performers the chance to tour the nation and engage a wider audience. The Donna Walton Gospel Network is engaged in a number of great projects! One of them is taping the upcoming 2nd Season of The Donna Walton Gospel TV Show. We offer the opportunity for local musicians to promote their talent on this upcoming syndicated TV show. Feel free to visit our website for more information at www.dwgntv.info

Community Talent invitation:

Attention Musicians. If you would like to debut your music on The Donna Walton Gospel TV Show's Community Talent Spotlight or be booked as a guest on The Donna Walton Gospel Show, Email Donna Walton for review at dwalton39212@gmail.com. "Community Talent" should be your topic line. You must submit your entry by August 12th. As a guest, you must be a nonprofit organization, community leader, Artist of other forms, or a positive person with a great story.

The Donna Walton Gospel Network is a 501c3 Organization of the Arts that provides platforms for Independent Music Artists. Visit their website at www.dwgntv.info

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Volume 19, Issue 13, Posted 6:16 PM, 07.05.2023

Lakewood League Of Women Voters 100th Anniversary 100 Pillars Spotlight: Jacquie Davis

Jacquie Davis does not consider herself a pillar of the League of Women Voters. She describes herself as a behind the scenes person. “I remember walking into my first meeting, I was surprised to see both women and men sitting at the table. At that moment, I realized how cool it was that both men and women are League members, often as couples. They understand how relevant the LWV and their services are to the communities they serve.”

Born in Pennsylvania, Jackie spent her early years living in a small village just north of Philadelphia, living in her parent’s newly built dream home. Both of her parents graduated from University of Pittsburgh in the 1930’s. Her father worked for Diamond Alkali, later Diamond Shamrock, and travelled all week, leaving her mother with two young daughters, no car and no stores nearby. Jacquie fondly remembers that there was a bus with fruits and vegetables that would come around.  Her mother would send Jacquie and her sister off with a list to get the fresh foods they needed for the week. “We’d get a treat for doing this, and we looked forward to it.”

In the late 1950s, her father was transferred to Cleveland and the family settled in Lakewood which has remained her home ever since.  Her post high school education came in fits and starts. After an unsuccessful attempt at a freshmen year (“I was having a bit too much fun”), she got her first job at Pier W and attended Tri-C.  Jacquie then applied to Kent State and was accepted. While going to classes, she bartended at the Blind Owl. But after a year of poor adjustment, she and three other friends found themselves in San Francisco. “It was 1969, and it changed my life. I saw women walking arm in arm and no one blinked an eye.  I was invited to interracial groups where everyone just got along, and I wondered: why can’t it be like this everywhere all the time?”

 

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Volume 19, Issue 13, Posted 4:11 PM, 06.21.2023

Neighborhood Leadership Development Program & Community Development Corporation Leadership Program Seek 2023 Applicants

If you are passionate, committed and dedicated to taking an active role in improving your community, you may be excited by, and ready for, one of two valuable leadership development programs. NLDP and CDCLP are programs of the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation. Both programs are at no cost to participants.

The Neighborhood Leadership Development Program (NLDP), for 16 years, has offered community engagement leadership training for residents of Cleveland and its inner ring suburbs, who are working on projects in the City of Cleveland and who are determined to make a positive impact on their communities.

The Community Development Corporation Leadership Program (CDCLP) just graduated its second cohort. CDCLP is the Cleveland area’s only leadership program specifically designed for Community Development Corporation Executive level leadership.

Both programs are currently seeking applicants for their 2023 cohorts.

 

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Volume 19, Issue 12, Posted 4:07 PM, 06.21.2023

Three Arches Foundation Welcomes New Board Members

Three Arches Foundation, a community-focused grant making foundation, added three new members to its board of directors. Seronica Powell, Sabrina Roberts and Ben Tomins join the 19-member volunteer board to provide leadership, oversight, and strategic guidance in pursuit of the Foundation’s vision of a vibrant community where every person has equitable access to achieve optimal physical and behavioral health.

Powell is director of finance for The Center for Black Health & Equity, a national nonprofit with focus on the facilitation of programs and services that promote health equity for people of African descent. An accomplished professional with over twenty years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she is deeply committed to working for and with populations considered underserved.

Roberts is senior advisor to the Cuyahoga County Executive with specific focus on the Department of Health and Human Services. In this appointed role, she evaluates and provides guidance on critical issues, programs, partnerships, and employee engagement, and assists with efforts to advance racial equity and promote inclusion efforts across the county government. Throughout her career, Roberts has helped strengthen access to quality health care for people impacted by health disparities.

Tomins is senior manager within the Accounting Reporting & Advisory group for Deloitte & Touche LLP. He is a certified public accountant in the state of Ohio with twelve years of combined experience providing accounting advisory services, specializing in complex accounting issues and transactions for both public and private companies, and previously as an external auditor.

“We welcome our three new directors and look forward to their contributions,” comments Kristin Broadbent, president and CEO of the Foundation. “Each offers a unique background and perspective that will boost our collective efforts to help grant partners better address needs and gaps affecting health and well-being of people in Lakewood and surrounding communities.”


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Volume 19, Issue 12, Posted 4:07 PM, 06.21.2023

The Cleveland South Asian Youth Leadership Bootcamp Presents: “Cleveland Color Walk” At Lakewood Park, Supporting City Mission And The Boys And Girls Clubs Of Northeast Ohio

The Cleveland South Asian Youth Leadership Bootcamp is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated "Cleveland Color Walk" event, taking place on Sunday, July 30, 2023, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at the picturesque Lakewood Park Kiwanis Pavilion in Lakewood, Ohio. This event promises a vibrant and unforgettable experience for participants of all ages, while also making a significant impact on the community.

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Volume 19, Issue 12, Posted 4:07 PM, 06.21.2023

Fire At Camp 'because I said I would'

On June 4, 2023, the nonprofit ‘because I said I would’ founded by Lakewood resident, Alex Sheen, suffered a total loss of their newly acquired Headquarters and Event Venue at Camp because I said I would due to fire. No one was hurt. The cause is under investigation. This was much more than just four walls; it held 10 years of supporters' Promise Cards, irreplaceable keepsakes, and memories. This facility also housed the most critical resources and tools used to operate the charity. If you believe in the importance of promises made and kept for the betterment of humanity and would like to help with the relief and recovery effort, please email camp@becauseisaidiwould.org. Donations can be accepted at becauseisaidiwould.org/donate OR facebook.com/ donate/274658944968789/

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Volume 19, Issue 12, Posted 2:19 PM, 06.07.2023

The Lakewood Foundation And The Healthy Lakewood Foundation Present On Their Partnership To Support The Lakewood Community On June 27

The Lakewood Foundation and the Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) will hold a community presentation on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 from 7:00 – 8:00 PM at the Taft Center for Innovation (13701 Lake Avenue, Lakewood, OH 44107). The presentation will allow both organizations to share information about their role in supporting the Lakewood community and how they work together to do so. Community members can learn about how to engage with both organizations and ask questions of representatives from each.

The Lakewood Foundation is a private, not-for-profit community-based organization that serves as the fiscal sponsor for service groups and Lakewood City Departments. The Healthy Lakewood Foundation is a public charity that provides grant funding to area organizations and groups to advance the health and well-being of Lakewood residents.

This is a great presentation to attend if you are interested in learning more about:

  • The background, structure, and decision-making processes of both organizations
  • How to turn a great idea for a community project into a funded project
  • How fiscal sponsorships work and the steps for applying for one through The Lakewood Foundation
  • How HLF structures its grantmaking and how to apply
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Volume 19, Issue 11, Posted 2:20 PM, 06.07.2023

HLF Welcomes Applications For Board Of Directors Position

Currently, the Healthy Lakewood Foundation (HLF) has one open position on its Board of Directors. As part of an ongoing self-evaluation process, the HLF Board is prioritizing the recruitment and nomination of a young person of color (ages 21-35) to join its Board of Directors.

HLF holds as a core value that the diversity of its members and partners is one of its greatest assets.  By recruiting and supporting members with diverse backgrounds, lived experiences, skills, and areas of knowledge, the Board seeks to engage a range of perspectives to address the challenges and opportunities encountered in grantmaking. The board recognizes that greater understanding is possible among those who bring diverse perspectives and lenses through which to examine issues and opportunities.

HLF takes seriously its responsibility to create a culture that honors and supports each member’s inherent value, contributions, and perspectives. The HLF board and staff are responsible for ensuring that diversity, equity, and inclusion are central pillars of its governance.

At this time, only Lakewood residents can be considered for this open position in order to maintain a board composition whereby at least 2/3 of members are Lakewood residents per the organization’s by-laws. 

 

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Volume 19, Issue 10, Posted 3:10 PM, 05.17.2023

A Woman’s Access To Reproductive Healthcare In Ohio: An Educational Forum By The Lakewood Chapter Of The League Of Women Voters Of Greater Cleveland

Please join the Lakewood, Bay Village, Rocky River, Westlake/North Olmsted, and Fairview Park Chapters of the League of Women Voters of Greater Cleveland on Tuesday, May 23 from 7-8:30P at the Lakewood Public Library (15425 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, Ohio) for a public forum. 

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Volume 19, Issue 10, Posted 3:10 PM, 05.17.2023

Get Your Car Washed And Support Music And Performing Arts In Lakewood!

Wash your car and do some good!

We are excited to share that we are partnering with Sgt. Clean Car Wash! From now through May 31, purchase a Platinum Car Wash (a $25 value) for only $15 and Lakewood Music Boosters receives half of each purchase. Car washes make great:

  • Mother’s and Father’s Day gifts
  • Teacher and staff thank you gifts
  • Graduation gifts
  • A little treat for yourself to celebrate Spring!

Please consider supporting Lakewood Music Boosters, which provides resources (programming, classroom materials, and more) to our teachers and scholarships for students for private lessons, camps, and more across all levels in the District.

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Volume 19, Issue 10, Posted 3:10 PM, 05.17.2023

Lakewood Women’s Club Supports Local Businesses During Its Annual Progressive Dinner

The Lakewood Women's Club (formerly known as Junior Women's Club of Lakewood), founded in 1962 with roots going back to the early 1900s, has provided, and continues to provide, a philanthropic organization for women who are interested in serving their community while enjoying a program geared to fun and friendship.

To serve its theme of fun and friendship, each year the club hosts an annual progressive dinner for our members and community guests. A progressive dinner party, it’s a multi-course dinner served at multiple houses where diners travel from house to house, eating a single course at each of the destinations.

This years’ progressive dinner started out at Torey Worron’s (current member and past president) home for appetizers and drinks portion of the evening. The night’s festivities continued at The CoLab on Madison Ave for dinner prepared by Chef Jack from the catering company “In Your Place”. The CoLab, a new fun Lakewood business owned by Maureen Koopman, is an extension of your home — a space that’s fun, vibrant & welcoming. It was the perfect place for our dinner. And, in keeping with our theme of supporting women in Lakewood, we wanted to support Maureen who is also one of our 2022 Women Honoring Women Business Nominees. Our evening was made complete as we finished the night with decadent pie and coffee from the pie bar at Rood on Madison. Another one of Lakewood’s cool and hip restaurants.

In keeping with our goal of having some fun while also doing some good, everyone had a wonderful time while we also raised money for this year’s Lakewood female college scholarship.

One of our new members, Rachelle Loraine says, “Lakewood Women’s Club is a phenomenal place to get to know women from our community that I wouldn’t typically meet. All ages, walks of life. We all hold the core goal of helping our community and empowering young women by awarding scholarships. I’m not originally from Lakewood, so the opportunity to make friends and form bonds was very appealing to me. We have fun get-togethers, the Progressive dinner was a blast. It’s a group of people who love to have a great time, maybe a few cocktails and enjoy yummy food. You can’t beat that!”

Cindy Einhouse, who also attended the event and is one of our Honorary Members commented: “It may have been about 20 years ago, but I remember the first event I ever attended for the Lakewood Women’s Club was the Progressive Dinner. Over the years, this group has continued to be relevant in my life, and its members are among the most enjoyable, professional, dedicated women I have ever known. The progressive dinner this past weekend was another great opportunity to engage with women of diverse ages who share the value of community involvement”.

This progressive dinner, and our annual scholarship, awarded to a female high school senior pursuing a higher education, are just two of the many ways the Lakewood Women's Club supports Lakewood. Through our fundraising efforts, highlighted by our annual fundraiser - Women Honoring Women - LWC has awarded scholarship money to deserving high school seniors as they pursue their education for over 30 straight years!


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Volume 19, Issue 9, Posted 12:21 PM, 05.03.2023

HLF Board Member Blog: Advocacy And Personal Connection

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation is now sharing a monthly blog article on its website (https://healthylakewoodfoundation.org/news-updates/). Becca Baas, HLF's Co-Vice President, shares her recent personal experience advocating for investments in early childhood at the Ohio Statehouse. Here's her article:

Advocacy is powerful.

Advocates have great potential to inform and influence the understanding and actions of decision-makers and neighbors alike. To be an advocate can feel intimidating if we lack expertise or are unfamiliar with the “big picture”; however, a recent experience reminded me that the most important element of advocacy is the personal connection.

I attended an Advocacy Day event at the Ohio Statehouse – it was an opportunity to join hundreds of Ohioans gathered to raise awareness about the need to prioritize investment in early childhood as part of our state’s biennial budget process. It’s been many years since my family relied on early childhood resources, but I recognize how important these programs and policies are to my neighbors and our community. A family might benefit directly from better access to childcare, home visitation for new parents, universal Pre-K, and additional developmental resources; but it’s also important to highlight the long-term social and economic benefits for our communities. With high-quality birth-to-five programs yielding up to 13% ROI(return on investment), we can’t afford not to invest in early childhood.

This was an ideal setting for amateur and experienced advocates alike, because much of the logistical coordination was handled by Groundwork Ohio – a non-partisan, state-wide organization focused on public policy to improve outcomes for young children and their families. Conversations with lawmakers may seem daunting, but surrounded by hundreds of people from across our state with shared purpose I felt energized and inspired. Many arrived with their own stories to tell about the impact of investment in early childhood from the perspective of a family, a small business owner, a public health researcher, a public sector program, or an early childhood education professional. The insight of experts and state politicians from both sides of the aisle reinforced the need to prioritize and invest in early childhood as the right thing to do – highlighting the budget as a moral document.


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Volume 19, Issue 9, Posted 12:21 PM, 05.03.2023

Volunteers Needed For LCAC’s Spring Cleaning Supplies Distribution

Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corporation (LCAC), also known as the “food drive people” switches gears every May to help provide cleaning supplies and hygiene items for Lakewood families in need. 

With warmer weather approaching, people often begin to wash off winter’s dirt and grime and start the spring with a fresh start. 

LCAC will be hosting a Spring Cleaning Drive on Saturday, May 13 at 9 a.m. in the back parking lot of the Masonic Temple, located at 15300 Detroit Road in Lakewood. 

Many households struggle when it comes to spring cleaning as necessary supplies can get expensive and are not covered by WIC. This drive will provide our recipients with the supplies they need for cleaning. 

During the event, LCAC’s board members and volunteers will sort and deliver cleaning supplies to Lakewood residences. 

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Volume 19, Issue 9, Posted 12:21 PM, 05.03.2023

Keep Lakewood Beautiful To Host Humus And Perennial Flower Sale on May 13

There's no better time than now to get your garden thriving, and Keep Lakewood Beautiful is here to help turn your thumbs green.

Keep Lakewood Beautiful announces the return of our annual Humus and Perennial Flower Sale taking place on Saturday, May 13, from 9 am to noon at the parking lot of Old Stone House at Lakewood Park (14532 Lake Avenue).

Come get your bags of "black gold" for your gardens (humus = $5/bag) and shop from a fabulous selection of attractive perennials that tend to be local, native and hardy, while serving as pollinators for bees and butterflies. Offerings include:

  • Herbs
  • Milkweed
  • Buddleia - Butterfly Bush
  • Coneflowers
  • Ferns
  • Heuchera (Coral Bells)
  • Hostas
  • Leucanthemum (Shasta Daisy)
  • Monarda (Bee Balm)
  • Peonies
  • And many other perennials

This annual event serves as a fundraiser for Keep Lakewood Beautiful, a volunteer-driven organization committed to community beautification in our city.  Cash and checks only, please. Thank you for your support!

M

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Volume 19, Issue 9, Posted 12:21 PM, 05.03.2023

GardenWalk Lakewood To Host Free Plant Swap On May 21st

Looking for some new plants to brighten up your home or garden? Join GardenWalk Lakewood for our second plant swap on Sunday, May 21, 2023 from 1 to 3pm at Cove Park (1294). Come together with your fellow gardeners to swap divided perennials, seeds, cuttings, plants, pots, tools, and tips, all while learning more about GardenWalk Lakewood and our mission. Nothing to swap? No problem! There will be plenty of items to help you on your gardening journey. We hope to see you there!

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Volume 19, Issue 9, Posted 12:21 PM, 05.03.2023

Summer To Success: Summer Jobs For 14-18 Year Olds In Lakewood

Lakewood teens! Want to earn $13.50 an hour this summer while learning new skills? Apply now for the Youth Opportunities Unlimited Summer Youth Employment Program.

Current eighth graders (age 14 by June 1) through high school seniors are eligible for this six-week, 25 hours per week experience. Worksites are with nonprofit organizations and small businesses within five miles of your residence.

The deadline to apply is May 1. 2023. To learn more, visit www.youcle.org/syep or call the Summer Jobs Info Line at 216-776-3900.

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Volume 19, Issue 7, Posted 4:16 PM, 04.05.2023

HLF Accepting Applications For Community Grants Funding

The Healthy Lakewood Foundation will accept applications for its Community Grants funding process from April 3 through May 12, 2023. Community Grants seek to address social, economic, and environmental factors which impact health outcomes and perpetuate disparities.

Community Grants support programming that addresses specific social determinants of health:

  • Food security and access to affordable high-quality food.
  • Social and community support networks as safeguards against stress and discrimination.
  • Access to early childhood education programs and services.
  • Affordable and safe housing, access to transportation, and safety in and access to public spaces within Lakewood.

Additionally, specific populations in Lakewood are prioritized in this funding, including children and youth, low-income older adults, single-parent heads of households, and immigrants and refugees.

Grant funding ranges between $10,000 - $40,000.

Non-profits and fiscally sponsored organizations are encouraged to review the application process and guidelines on HLF’s website at www.healthylakewoodfoundation.org.

Kate Ingersoll is the Executive Director of the Healthy Lakewood Foundation.

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Volume 19, Issue 7, Posted 4:16 PM, 04.05.2023

Connecting For Kids April Programs In Lakewood

Programs are offered in partnership with Lakewood Family Room & Lakewood Public Library and funded by the Healthy Lakewood Foundation. Due to grant funding, these programs are only open to Lakewood residents. Register at www.connectingforkids.org/outings, via email: info@connectingforkids.org or Call/Text: 440-570-5908.

Anxiety & Attention Family Support

This event is two pilot programs in one and is designed for families and their children ages 7-12 with concerns about mental health or low support needs disabilities. Kids will explore themes connected to mental health through age-appropriate activities led by Amy Mobley, MSW, LSW, CDCA of Clear Perspective Therapy. In another room, caregivers will have the opportunity to meet with CFK staff and connect with other families facing similar concerns. To register, go to connectingforkids.org/outings Thursday, April 13, 6:30 p.m. Lakewood Public Library, Main Branch 

Inclusive Play & Connect

Hands-on play and support program for families with children ages 0-6 with or without disabilities. 
Thursday, April 27, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Lakewood Family Room, Cove Community Center 

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Volume 19, Issue 7, Posted 4:16 PM, 04.05.2023

Lakewood League of Women Voters 100th Anniversary 100 Pillars Spotlight: Janis Ford

Janis Ford lived in Lakewood from the age of two through high school.  Her parents ran a small printing enterprise from their home until the operation got successful enough to open a shop on Madison Avenue.  

In her senior year at Lakewood High, Janis was called into the Principal’s office where she was told that she had been chosen the Presidential scholar.  She had no idea what that was and with good reason.  It was the inaugural year of the United States Presidential Scholars Program where one boy and one girl from each state was chosen to be recognized and honored as one of the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors.  Janis had been selected to represent the state of Ohio. “I’m compulsive obsessive, so I do well and test well and I am studious.  But I mean seriously, I take my Dad’s view: you can’t pick the top two students in any state. But it was fun.  It was my first airplane ride to Washington D.C.  They set up tables on the White House lawn and served us hamburgers from silver tureens.”

Janis took her “junior year abroad” in her sophomore year at Wooster College.  She studied German at the Universidad de los Andes in Bogotá, Columbia.  Janis left Wooster after her sophomore year.  “I had to make a living so Mom and Dad sent me to secretarial school.  When I finished, I didn’t know where I wanted to go but I knew there weren’t any jobs in Cleveland.  I got a book from the library called Finding Your Best Place to Live in America. It was a series of quizzes and when you finished it told you the best place to live.  The answer was Fargo, South Dakota.  I said ‘I don’t think so,’ and tried again.  The next time it recommended Seattle, Washington, and so I went.”   Janis spent the next 30 years there.  When she retired, she moved to Cincinnati where her brother lived.  “Turned out that wasn’t a good move.  Cincinnati is all sunshine.  I grew up in cloudy Cleveland and lived the rest of my time in Seattle, known for its rain.  So after two years, I moved back to Lakewood.

 

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Volume 19, Issue 7, Posted 4:16 PM, 04.05.2023

Jump N Jive To The Spring Swing Dance April 22

Join us for the second annual Spring Swing Dance fundraiser for the Kiwanis Club of Lakewood. Swing City Big Band will entertain from 7:30 to 10:00 at the Masonic Temple (15300 Detroit). Light snacks will be served and there will be a cash bar for beer and wine, along with other beverage options.

Last year everyone had a great time on that smooth floor dancing to all the music selections or just kicked back and listened to the great songs. So put on your dancing shoes and have some fun. Tickets can be purchased ahead at wwwLakewood Kiwanis or our FB event page. 50/50’s and sideboards will be offered that night. 
Lakewood Kiwanis Foundation uses this fundraiser to help distribute over 10,000 books to kids in Lakewood. Help us make our goal to serve the families in Lakewood.
#KidsNeedKiwanis

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Volume 19, Issue 7, Posted 4:16 PM, 04.05.2023

Lakewood Kiwanis’ Harding Builder’s Club Builds Leaders

March 20th thru the 24th, 2023 is Kiwanis International recognition week for Kiwanis Builders. The Kiwanis Club of Lakewood is proud to sponsor 1 Builder's Club at Harding Junior High.

Builder’s is a youth leadership club in the Kiwanis family for middle school. Each Builder's club has a school/administrator advisor and Lakewood Kiwanian advisor. The club officers are elected at the beginning of the school year and installed by a Kiwanian officer.

After that is in place, the voting of projects by the kids is done for the year. Our Builder’s projects include food drives, dog blankets for The Alaskan Iditarod Race, and fundraising efforts for world projects, such as World Wildlife Association. The kids learn that they have a voice in the club and need to make the commitment to complete their projects.

Leadership in school and community is supported by both the school faculty advisor and Lakewood Kiwanis.

Kiwanis International Builder’s motto is "Building Leaders" and Harding School Builders are doing that today.

Go Harding Builders! Lakewood Kiwanis is proud of you.

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Volume 19, Issue 5, Posted 8:21 PM, 03.01.2023

Lakewood Kiwanis KKids Awareness Week

February 13-17, 2023 is Kiwanis International recognition week for Kiwanis K Kids. Lakewood Kiwanis is proud to sponsor 4 K Kid Clubs in our community: Grant Elementary School, Horace Mann Elementary School, Horizon Before and After Care at Harrison and Emerson Elementary Schools.

K Kids is the youngest youth leadership club in the Kiwanis family. Each K Kids club has a school/administrator advisor and Lakewood Kiwanian advisor. Each club has their leadership team of K Kids selected through essays submitted or elected at the beginning of school. After that is in place, the voting of projects by the kids are done for the year. Our K Kids projects include food drives, community trash cleanup in the Spring and local initiatives that they have chosen to do. The kids learn that they have a voice in the club and need to make the commitment to complete their projects. As advisors, we try to have different speakers come in to connect the kids to the community service they complete. Win, win for all. Lakewood Kiwanis also sponsors Builders Club at Harding Junior High.

Our K Kids have been busy this school year. Grant School K Kids recognized their local veterans with a breakfast and promoted the Thanksgiving food drive at the school for LCAC (Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corp.) . Horace Mann KKids hosted a joint winter decoration project with The Haven. 7 Haven residents traveled over to the school and worked with the kids. Horace Mann KKids are also planning to have an Alex’s Lemonade Stand in March for Pediatric Cancer. Recently, Horizon K Kids at both Harrison and Emerson Elementary made Snowman Soup (hot chocolate mix, marshmallows, a candy cane and a holiday poem) for a homeless ministry in the area. And in December, the KKids made dog biscuits and blankets for City Dogs in Cleveland. 

K Kids motto is to Build Leaders, and Lakewood K Kids are doing it in Lakewood. #Kids Need Kiwanis

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Volume 19, Issue 4, Posted 12:20 PM, 02.15.2023

Farrell Foundation Event:"Yes, And"…Adventures In Communication With Loved Ones With Dementia Feb. 26, 2023

Clague Playhouse, in conjunction with The Carolyn L. Farrell Foundation, offers an extraordinary opportunity for individuals and families experiencing communication challenges with someone with dementia in a home setting to learn about new approaches.

"Yes, And"…Adventures In Communication With Loved Ones With Dementia is a one-hour performance and conversation that takes place at Clague Playhouse, 1371 Clague Rd., Westlake, Ohio, on Sunday, February 26, 2023 at 2:00 pm. Seats are limited, so making reservations soon is recommended by calling 440-414-0434 or emailing info@farrellfoundation.com. Clague is wheelchair accessible. Admission is free, but donations to the Farrell Foundation are welcome.

Anne McEvoy uses performers and props to show three scenarios that often result in communications conflict with people with dementia, and provides a positive approach to deal with these situations. McEvoy is a Cleveland-based writer, playwright, and a nationally known actress who has appeared on stage and on TV and in films.


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Volume 19, Issue 3, Posted 11:49 AM, 02.01.2023