Latest News
by Sarah Kepple
Happy Valentine’s Day Neighbors!
This edition’s column is full of updates that are more practical than romantic, but are part of our continual work for the city we all love.
On February 3rd, City Council passed a Resolution to designate February 2025 as Black History Month in the City of Lakewood by celebrating African-American culture and paying tribute to the contributions of African-Americans to our community, region, state and country.
Council also adopted a Resolution accepting $157,800 through the Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council (NOPEC) Energized Community (NEC) Grant Program which provides funding for energy efficiency and infrastructure projects to reduce energy consumption. The City can use these funds for a variety of projects supporting our Climate Action Plan including electric vehicles, traffic signal upgrades, energy efficient windows and appliances, electrical upgrades, tree canopy restoration, LED lighting upgrades, insulation and more. These funds are awarded in part based on the number of NOPEC customers in the city, so some of our dollars as energy consumers are now able to be reinvested toward our Climate goals. We anticipate further discussion of how the NOPEC NEC funds will be used at an upcoming Public Works & Sustainability Committee meeting.
Prior to the Regular council meeting on Feb 3rd, Committee of the Whole met at 6:30 to learn from the Administration about findings of a space study conducted at City Hall and the Annex across the street. Some of the high level challenges discussed were the need to expand the female police locker room to accommodate increasing numbers of female officers as well as ADA compliance, customer experience, and department efficiency. This is the beginning of a conversation, and I invite you to watch the video on the council website to learn more.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 4, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Jim O'Bryan
A small group of family, friends, and neighbors came together to honor lifelong Lakewood resident Stan Austin at the home of Holly Gigante. Stan embodied what a true civic-minded individual is. His love of Lakewood was apparent in everything he did, from campaigning for the first ambulances in Lakewood to the creation of C.E.R.T. (Community Emergency Response Team), along with his passion for working on his home. He dedicated most of his adult life to local politics and mentored many who chose to run for office. His warmth and kindness touched all who met him and his indelible laugh will continue to resonate. State Rep Tristan Rader presented Stan’s brother with a memorial proclamation from the State House, and former State Rep/Senator/Lakewood Councilman and long-time Stan friend Michael Skindell did a beautiful eulogy.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 4, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Jim O'Bryan
14900 Detroit over the years.
AGS and the Lakewood Observer have had an office at 14900 Detroit Ave for almost 30 years. The Detroit Cook Building in Lakewood Ohio started life as a Young’s Furniture Store, then a F.W. Woolworth’s, then Rozi’s Wine Shop and State Liquor Store, to finally, Rozi’s Wine House.
It’s an odd building as it is built on an incline and the Mezzanine level is wedge shaped. This creates the need for a 23’ gap between the first floor and the second floor. In 1924 the third elevator in Lakewood was installed and instantly people started to stop the elevator between the first and second floor, to sign their names and leave cute messages like “Double CHECK their FACTS!” and “For A Good Time...” Today there are over 100 years of graffiti! You can see the decades go by, as at first there are street names, then 4 digit phone numbers give way to letters and numbers, then numbers with area codes. An amazing look back.
Layers and layers of graffiti reveal each message turning into and over the others. Until a hillbilly Jackson Pollock emerges. Much like the “Herb Score Ball,” if you look closely, you can see history in all of the writing.
About ten years ago, I had tried to capture it, but it was in a format of little use to anyone. You couldn’t read it, or appreciate techniques, color, messages, etc.
A month ago I was told that the elevator was being upgraded and gutted, and the graffiti will be painted over, and or enclosed in the new machinery.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 4, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Katie Slife Rustad
In the last issue of the Observer I outlined what, in my mind, are the main issues with the proposed elementary school closures. But the one big question that remains is: Why are we even discussing closing a school in the first place?
On the agenda of the first task force meeting, the purpose of the task force was discussed. It states:
“As educational leaders, we are responsible for caring for, protecting, and maintaining our facilities and buildings. Additionally, we have the responsibility to periodically review the use of our facilities and the role each facility plays in helping us achieve our mission in financially responsible and sustainable ways, as well as providing the greatest opportunities for our students’ growth.
The purpose of the Elementary Planning Task Force is to provide informed guidance and strategic recommendations to the superintendent on optimizing the use of district facilities, particularly where there is excess capacity.”
The charts showing capacity in the schools, however, reveal that elementary school capacity is the highest of all of the buildings.
So why are we talking about closing some of the most used buildings in the district? And whether at full, or partial capacity, as long as the community supports neighborhood schools and are willing to fund them, what is the significance of a building at 70% vs 85% capacity?
This has never been mentioned in the community meetings.
The purpose statement goes on to say:
“The Task Force will assist in analyzing scenarios for utilizing Lakewood’s elementary schools; evaluating the financial, educational, and logistical impacts of potential changes; and developing opportunities to engage the community.”
A consulting firm was hired before the Task Force convened, to put together suggested scenarios for building utilization. In a world where 99%+ of school districts are consolidated, this consulting firm recommended that Lakewood City Schools… should consolidate. The August 28, 2024 Task Force Meeting presentation lists the scenarios as:
1 – Reinvent Lincoln
2 – Reinvent Roosevelt
3 – Reinvent Grant
4 – Reinvent Grant & Roosevelt
5 – Reinvent Lincoln & Roosevelt
6 – Reinvent Lincoln & Grant
7 – Modify current boundaries
In the community meetings the scenarios were boiled down to three basic options: close one school to use for expanded pre-k OR do that plus close another school for “community education and recreation programming,” OR… redraw the district maps.
We were not told where the proposals for expanded pre-k or community space came from, or even given a clear definition of what the community building would be used for, yet it appears to form the basis of the need to close up to two schools.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 4, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Meghan George
The City of Lakewood regularly works to evaluate and align its municipal offices, facilities, and real estate holdings to create efficiencies, address capacity needs, ensure high-quality resident services, and maintain our shared goal of strong fiscal stewardship. This tradition dates back to Lakewood’s early days – in 1920 our first city hall moved from a house at Warren and Detroit to another house located in Lakewood Park, and then Lakewood ultimately built our current civic headquarters in the late 1950s.
A recent example of success in this effort to manage the City’s space needs was the unification of the Department of Human Services offices and public spaces at the Cove Community Center and the subsequent sale of the multiple spaces that previously served those purposes. That effort improved service to residents and created efficiencies. Another example is the current work to shift our Lakewood Animal Shelter to sit jointly on the same site as our Berea Road Refuse and Recycling, which will allow the City to expand its water treatment and storm water capacity in the Rocky River Valley to eventually use the soon-to-be-vacated current animal shelter campus.
In the same vein, last year the City released an RFP for a firm to complete a space assessment of the Lakewood City Hall campus (Administrative Offices, Lakewood Municipal Court, Lakewood Police Headquarters, and the nearby Annex building). After review, the City engaged Weber Murphy Fox Architects (“WMF”), who completed the assessment, which was discussed with Lakewood City Council this past Monday.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Christine Gordillo
Harding’s Junior Model United Nations Team had a fantastic experience at John Carroll University earlier this month. They began the process of preparing for the conference in October with researching problems facing their respective committees and constructing a position paper with their partners.
They began the process of preparing for the conference in October with researching problems facing their respective committees and constructing a position paper with their partners.
The next step was to participate in committees with students from all over the Greater Cleveland area sharing their positions in hopes to come to resolutions; collaborating, communicating, and cooperating throughout the process.
On the second day of the conference the committees were given crisis scenarios that forced them to put aside their work to that point and act on each of the scenarios.
Harding’s teams of delegates rose to the occasion with Andrew Babson and Tyler Kinder taking home a Superior Delegation Award, Audrey Gregory and Laine Taylor taking home an Excellent Delegation Award, and Gia Jirousek and Delaney Mason taking home a Honorable Mention Delegation Award.
The entire team of 16 students showed the conference what it means to embody the Vision of a Lakewood Ranger with their participation in the conference.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Christine Gordillo
The Lakewood High National Honor Society welcomed 56 new members to its chapter in an induction ceremony at the Civic Auditorium on Jan. 30, 2025. To be inducted into the National Honor Society, students must possess a GPA of at least 3.5. Students are also evaluated based on their character, which means the nominating committee looks at community involvement, extracurriculars, leadership skills, and other intangibles.
Prior to the induction of new members, NHS President Helen Fraunfelder offered a President's Message and the introduced the night's guest speaker, LHS social studies teacher and LHS graduate Ron Lewis. Following Mr. Lewis' speech, the four remaining NHS officers each spoke on one of the four tenets of the organization: scholarship, leadership, service and character. Vice President Mae Mohar spoke on the topic of service; Treasurer Elizabeth Schuldt spoke on leadership; Secretary Josie Kavc spoke on character; and Sergeant at Arms Charieon Doxley spoke on scholarship.
Following the speeches, the new members were presented by Principal Joy Morgan before they took the National Honor Society Pledge to conclude the evening.
Congratulations to all our our new NHS inductees, thank you to the current members for welcoming the newest members and thanks to Dayna Hansen for her guidance as the chapter's advisor.
2025 Inductees
Alexandra Adamov
Abraham Ballard
Ella Bower
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Christine Gordillo
Congratulations to Lakewood High senior Olive Rodemann, whose artwork has been honored in the Regional Scholastic Art & Writing Awards competition!
Olive's photography earned six Gold Keys, the highest honor given, and two Silver Keys. Gold Key winners move on to be judged at the national level of the longest-running and most prestigious scholarship and recognition program for young artists and writers in grades 7-12. The Scholastic regional competition recognizes creative achievement in students across the Midwest.
In addition to Olive, West Shore Career-Tech Media Art & Design student Gabe Cosgriff earned two Honorable Mentions in photography and one for digital art, and fellow MAD student Jaiden Goan won an Honorable Mention in animation.
Congratulations again to Olive and to her AP Photography teacher, Dayna Hansen and to Gabe, Jaiden and MAD teacher Anne McQuay.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Stephanie Jarosz
Sammy and Jackie, two sweet senior cats, are hoping to find loving new homes after the recent passing of their owners.
Sammy, a 12-year-old Domestic Shorthair, is a lovable boy who thrives on affection and enjoys a good back scratch. Due to previous health issues, he requires a special gastrointestinal diet. Sammy is a sweetheart and would bring happiness to any home!
Seventeen-year-old Jackie, a beautiful British Shorthair, may be a bit reserved at first, but she quickly warms up. She loves chin rubs and long naps. This girl deserves to spend her golden years with a family who adores her!
Visit Sammy, Jackie and the other animals at the Lakewood Animal Shelter located at 1299 Metropark Drive, just past the Dog Park. Contact the shelter at (216) 529-5020.
Lakewood Animal Shelter hours: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed on Sundays.
This message is shared by the Citizens Committee for Lakewood's Animals and Shelter (CCLAS), an all-volunteer nonprofit dedicated to protecting and improving the lives of Lakewood's companion animals. CCLAS provides financial aid and resources to the Lakewood Animal Shelter, ensuring quality care for abandoned, orphaned, sick, and injured animals. We also promote pet adoptions and advocate for animal welfare through community outreach and education. CCLAS is committed to treating animals with empathy, kindness, and respect, recognizing their capacity to experience pain, suffering, and a range of emotions. Learn more at cclas.org.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Caitlin Solomon
Preserve Lakewood Schools is working to educate Lakewood residents about Lakewood City School District’s current process which may result in the closing of one or even two of our neighborhood elementary schools. We are a growing collective of parents and residents concerned about preserving our neighborhood schools, and more than 850 residents have signed our petition to halt the closing of any of Lakewood’s elementary schools.
Below we share our response to the recently published FAQs by Lakewood City School District on their website and in the Observer. The questions were generated by the district, with their answers copied and pasted below. You will find our group’s response below each one. Numbers have been added to the questions for clarity of this article.
- Who makes up the task force?
District response: “The task force is made up of parents from all seven elementary boundaries, community members, city leaders, alumni, district administrators and teachers who reside in Lakewood. Community members, including District parents, make up two-thirds of the task force.”
Preserve Lakewood Schools response: We have performed an analysis of the list of Task Force members as published on the district’s website and derived the following breakdown of the 49 members:
-
5 Board of Education Members
-
2 City Council Members (1 of which was appointed to council after Task Force involvement, to be clear)
-
29 parents/residents
-
13 Lakewood City School District employees
The total of Board of Education (BOE) members plus district employees serving on the Task Force is 18 people, or 37% of the 49-member Task Force. This doesn’t account for City Council presence. Are district employees free to speak openly without fear of retribution? Why are BOE members serving as members of a Task Force that will make recommendations to the superintendent for a final decision, who will in turn make recommendations to the BOE to vote on? FutureThink, the outside consulting firm, has a representative present at the meetings and seems to be involved from a presentation and public relations perspective. We welcome more clarity on this role.
It is misleading to claim that this process was shaped by the community, when in fact, 37% of the task force is either a school board member, or is employed by the school district, and may be reluctant to speak their mind.
Finally, the process for developing the task force itself has not been transparent or widely shared. The task force was formed by the superintendent and Board of Education members, with potential members specifically and individually invited to apply to participate. The application process was not advertised widely in the school district’s communications and had a very short window for response.
- Why weren’t more scenarios created?
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Monica Bruaw
Scan the QR code to sign the petition for halting the repurposing (closure) of Lakewood elementary schools.
Recently, the Lakewood City School District has been discussing plans to "repurpose" (close) up to 2 elementary schools - with Lincoln, Roosevelt, or Grant being on the chopping block. These changes may deprive hundreds of children of their convenient access to primary education and could lead to overcrowded classrooms in the remaining institutions.
Local elementary schools are the heart of the communities they serve, providing more than just education. This petition seeks to express our collective concern and to urge the Lakewood City School District to suspend the repurposing process, instead exploring alternative options, while collecting accurate data and focusing first on the passage of the upcoming levy.
Notable to ALL residents, the district is planning to propose an increased levy on the ballot in 2026 after fellow residents just saw their property taxes increase at least 30%. State funding for this district is not tied to enrollment, being a guaranteed district. Taxpayers will be asked for more money even if schools are repurposed and it is important that our voices are heard on how the schools should be serving the needs of Lakewood’s families.
Stand with us in this vital cause to safeguard the quality of education for our children, preserve the walkability and culture, and maintain the real estate values in Lakewood.
Because this issue affects all Lakewood residents, please consider signing this petition at https://change.org/preservelakewoodschools or use the QR code below.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Eva Starr
ARIES: The Sun is in the Ram’s house of friends & Jupiter has landed in the 3rd house of the neighborhood. Take your Valentine for a spicy dinner in the neighborhood, & wear Red.
TAURUS: The Bull's got double luck this Valentine's Day. The Sun is in the house of career & Jupiter is in the house of finances. Splurge on your sweetheart, money's no object, wine & dine.
GEMINI: Jupiter is in the Twin's house of self, but the sun is shining on shores overseas. You're calling the shots, pick the destination, schedule the flight - double the pleasure, double the LOVE.
CANCER: You've got some extra resources coming your way, Crab, be gracious & say thank you. Jupiter is in your 12th house behind the scenes, a secret admirer maybe? Hmm!
LEO: The Lion/Lioness will have a Jungle full this Valentine's Day. I hope your wallet is as big as your heart! You've got a lot going on in the house of friendships & personal relationships.
VIRGO: Virgo needs to look at its health this Valentine's Day, where the Sun is shining. You might be feeling a little extra frisky. Jupiter in your house of career brings you extra cash.
LIBRA: Libra, you are never lacking for friends. However, the Sun is shining on your romantic house this Valentine's Day & Jupiter landed on a beach somewhere; make a decision, love.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Christine Gordillo
The Lakewood City Schools' Open Enrollment period for the 2025-2026 school year will begin on March 1, 2025 and continue until April 15, 2025. An online form will be available on the district website beginning the morning of March 1. Notification of open enrollment status will be as follows: The first-round of notifications will occur the week of June 9, 2025. Kindergarten notification will only be made the week of August 11, 2025. If you have any questions regarding Open Enrollment, please call 216-529-4244.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Christine Gordillo
As part of Lakewood City Schools' Hike & Bike partnership with the City of Lakewood and Bike Lakewood, we are encouraging students in grades PreK-5 to walk to school if they are able on Tuesday, Feb. 11. Walking to school is not just for warm weather...grab your hat and gloves and a warm coat and enjoy the crisp air!
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Maria Winiarski
"Pentitent" by Maria Winiarski
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Debra O'Bryan
In the January 8th issue article “Calling All Graduating High School Seniors,” the website and QR code were not correct. To apply please go to:
https://sites.google.com/view/lakewoodkiwanisfoundation/scholarships
You must be a graduating senior, a U.S citizen and resident of Lakewood who has applied to a college or university, and have displayed academic success. Applications are welcome until April 1, 2025.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Shirley Nelson
Feb. 15th • 1- 4:00 PM • Lakewood Presbyterian Church
Black History Month is celebrated to honor the rich heritage and resilience of Black people despite facing historical oppression. It is also a time to acknowledge African Americans who have made significant contributions in society.
On Saturday, February 15th, Lakewood Black Caucus will host a community event to recognize key figures, achievements, and struggles throughout Black history. Our theme is “Telling Our Stories – Now and Then.”
Angelina Steiner Hamilton, Member of Council, At-Large, the first Black woman appointed to Lakewood City Council, will begin the program with stories to bring light to such a time as this.
Michele Rudolph, Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers, spotlights Ella Baker, a civil rights leader and organizer who helped shape the Civil Rights movement in the United States.
Join us for an uplifting cultural experience with food from a local Black-owned restaurant, Sweet Pork Wilson’s. Vendors will be present selling art, jewelry, African clothing, accessories, and other items.
Lakewood Black Caucus is a Black grassroots organization dedicated to the mental health and well-being of our Black community, while also providing all citizens of Lakewood with stimulating educational programs for the betterment of our entire community.
JOIN US Feb. 15th at 1:00 pm at Lakewood Presbyterian Church, 14502 Detroit Avenue, Lakewood, OH.
RSVP: shirley.nelson@live.com or 216-978-2626 - FREE and Open to the Public
Shirley Nelson is LBC president.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Lisa Calfee
Presentation- Douglas Phillips, Cleveland’s Modern Stained Glass Artist
Presented by Jamie Miles from the Cleveland Restoration Society
Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. Main Library Auditorium
Throughout churches in Northeast Ohio and around the world, the artistry of the Phillips Stained Glass Studio stands out for its unique use of color, shape, and movement. Jamie Miles will highlight the career of Douglas Phillips, believed to be the only African American artist to run his own stained glass studio between the years of 1952 and 1995.
Film: "Scarlet Street" (1945) Presented by Terry Meehan
Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. Main Library Auditorium
Femme fatale, Kitty March (Joan Bennett) takes advantage of middle-aged store cashier Christopher Cross (Edward G. Robinson) after he does her a good turn in this film noir classic.
Presentation: A Visit with Abraham Lincoln Sunday, February 16, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
Main Multipurpose Room
Local historian Mel Maurer stars as Abraham Lincoln who speaks frankly on the Civil War and other topics.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Joshua Meek
State Representative Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) today announced that he will be holding a series of informal events across Ohio’s 13th House District in various coffee shops on the last Friday of each month to meet with constituents and talk about issues facing the community.
“One of my biggest commitments while running for office was to meet you where you are and keep the lines of communication open. That’s why I’m excited to host ‘Coffee with Rep. Rader’, a chance for us to connect, chat about the issues that matter most to you, and work together for a stronger community,” said Rep. Rader.
‘Coffee with Rep. Rader’ is set to occur on the following dates:
- February 28, 9am – 11am @ Propaganda Coffee (17806 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107)
- March 28, 10am – 12pm @ Las Villas Deli & Pastries (3216 W. 41st St. Cleveland, OH 44109)
- April 25, 9am – 11am @ Civilization (2366 W. 11th St. Cleveland, OH 44113)
- May 30, 10am – 12pm @ Root Café (15118 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107)
- June 27, 9am – 11am @ Koffie Café (2517 Market Ave. Cleveland, OH 44113)
Joshua Meek is the Legislative Aide for Rep. Rader in Columbus and previously worked for Rep. Michael Skindell (D-Lakewood). Josh assists with drafting legislation, answering constituent phone calls and emails, scheduling meetings, etc. His office can be reached at Rep13@ohiohouse.gov or 614-466-5921.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Nancy Feighan
If you’ve spent time in Lakewood, Janet might look familiar. With her warm smile and strong ties to the community, she’s a proud product of the city that shaped her. Raised here, Janet’s life reflects her deep connection to her roots and her commitment to family, community, and the values that have guided her over the years.
Born and raised in Lakewood, Janet received an excellent education through Lakewood City Schools, attending Hayes Elementary, Harding Middle School, and graduating from Lakewood High School in 1996. Those years laid the foundation for the values she holds today.
Janet’s pride in her upbringing is reflected in the way she lives her life. She fondly recalls her school days in Lakewood, where the close-knit community and dedicated teachers helped her thrive. When it came time to raise her own son, she chose to do so in the same schools and community that had shaped her and his father, fostering a special bond between them through their shared experiences. She and her son had the same teacher and crossing guard at Hayes who remembered her and knew he was her son. Janet raised her now 27-year-old son with the same pride in Lakewood that she carries herself.
Family is everything to Janet. Her mom still lives in Lakewood, and the two share a close bond. Janet loves the time spent with her mom, especially during their visits to the casino—where, even though they know the house always wins, sometimes it doesn’t. They have a great time together.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Christine Gordillo
Last week a group of Lakewood Police officers visited Emerson Elementary to bring the new "Books and Badges" program to the school's first-graders. This week, LPD officers stopped by Horace Mann and Roosevelt Elementary Schools and read with their students as well.
Officers read a book to first graders while students follow along with their own book. which they are able to take home to keep!
What an awesome program. Thank you, LPD!
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 3, Posted 10:23 PM, 02.05.2025
by Katie Slife Rustad
My name is Katie Slife Rustad and I’m a mother of four children, three currently enrolled in the Lakewood Schools and a lifelong Lakewood Resident. I’m also a product of the Lakewood Schools, as are my husband, my parents, my in-laws, our brothers and many of our aunts, uncles and cousins. My husband’s grandfather graduated from Lakewood High in 1945, making our children 4th generation Rangers. To put it simply, we are entrenched in and massive advocates of the Lakewood Public Schools: our house bleeds purple and gold.
You may have seen information on the Elementary Planning Task Force that was convened earlier this year and the community meetings that were set up to communicate their findings. You may also be aware of the rumors circulating for the past couple years that the administration wants to close a school. I like to think of myself as a logical and pragmatic person - I assumed that if a school needs to be closed that’s unfortunate, but that there must be sound reasoning behind it. I attended one of the community meetings with an open mind, hoping to gain an understanding.
In the 30-minute presentation we learned that enrollment is down, and operating costs have increased. The district has responded by eliminating positions through attrition, which creates the need to shuffle teachers between elementary buildings based on need. There is also inconsistency in class sizes across buildings, and some other logistical issues with operating decentralized preschools. This was all positioned as the reason to form a task force to evaluate building usage.
The task force was charged with analyzing scenarios for the buildings in the future. There was then a financial overview that told us that:
*There is no impending or forecasted budget deficit,
*State funding for the district is NOT impacted by the decline in enrollment, and
*Regardless of any changes made, Lakewood will need to pass another levy in 2026.
This set the stage to cover the scenarios the task force reviewed, all but one of which involve closing an elementary school, several involve closing two...and this is where they lost me.
Based on the presented challenges, we’re going to jump into closing buildings? There was also an expressed desire to open a centralized pre-k building in one of the closed schools which would allow increased enrollment in pre-k. There was no data showing unmet demand to justify a centralized pre-k. It felt like a very big leap of logic to me--as if the facts were chosen to back up the conclusions--and I left afterwards feeling very confused. A friend of mine on the task force encouraged me to attend another meeting – there is so much information he said, and it may take a few times hearing it to digest.
Hearing the presentation a second time only cemented my skepticism in the logic and after reviewing the information again several times online I question the school board’s decision to go through this process, especially to alter the fabric of our school district so dramatically and permanently in such a short period of time. To list what in my mind are the main, but not only, issues:
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Lynn Donaldson
Grants totaling $77,896 from the Lakewood-Rocky River Rotary Foundation will provide scholarships, encourage student achievement, fight hunger, and foster programs for community health and wellness.
Each year, the Rotary Club of Lakewood and Rocky River seeks grant applications from non-profit organizations that serve our youth, adults and community within Lakewood and Rocky River. Since its creation in 1952 by then-Club President Carl Dryer, the Foundation has enabled the club to provide over $1.25 million in student scholarships and grants, accomplished due to the generosity of the club’s philanthropic membership.
This year, the club will award $15,000 in scholarships to high school seniors and present $7,100 in prizes to student winners in the club’s annual speech, music, and art competition.
A grant of $2,592 was used for the club’s annual literacy project, purchasing dictionaries for over 600 third grade students in Lakewood and Rocky River.
Trials for Hope received a $5,000 grant to support its community meals and market in Lakewood. West Shore Meals on Wheels was awarded $4,500 to subsidize home-Grants of $3,500 which delivered meals for 19 people per month. A grant of $4,000 each went to the Rocky River Assistance Program for gift cards, holiday food and school supplies, and to Elle’s Enchanted Forest for ADA playground equipment, including an embankment slide and platform.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Tonya Sams
Being a parent is not an easy job, but it becomes more complicated when a child is having problems in school. If a child is struggling with schoolwork, continuous suspensions or other issues, they may need additional support. Requesting an evaluation for an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) from the school can help determine what, if any, additional help a child may need.
“What we would recommend a parent do is to communicate with the school, preferably in writing with the date on it, asking that their child be evaluated for an IEP,” said Emily Adams, a Staff Attorney in the Health & Opportunity Law Practice at The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. “That doesn't necessarily mean that a child will qualify for an IEP, but a full evaluation will be able to kind of get a picture as to what's going on with a child academically and behaviorally.”
Under Ohio law, a school has 30 days to respond to an IEP evaluation request. Because many parents find it hard to get a response to an evaluation request, keeping a dated copy of the written request for an evaluation would prove that a request was made and how long it's been since it was requested.
An IEP evaluation looks at the child as a whole. It tests all the areas of a child’s suspected disability. This could include evaluating the student’s cognitive performance, reading, writing and math skills, as well as social and emotional skills. The IEP evaluation could also include testing a student to determine if they need occupational, speech, or physical therapy. Once it’s established that the student needs additional support, the school would be able to provide it. The IEP is designed to fit the individual educational needs of the student.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Jeffrey Siebert
Family Weekend Wonders
Looking for weekend entertainment for the whole family? Look no further! Drop in to the Library's special weekend story time. Your whole family will enjoy these programs full of enthusiastic stories, engaging activities, entertaining music and clever crafts. Family Weekend Wonders Drop-In Story Time is offered every weekend throughout the year and features a different theme each week to keep things engaging. No registration is required.
Main Library- Fridays and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.
Madison Branch- Fridays at 10:30 a.m.
Winter Storytimes begin January 6, 2025
Just Baby 'N Me
For You and Your Birth to 24-Month-Old Baby
Just Baby 'N Me is a lap-sit story time ideal for babies from birth through early walkers. The focus is on rhymes, songs, finger plays and exploring short books together. No registration is required.
Main Library-
Mondays- 10:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Lisa Calfee
Besa Presentation and Documentary - "Besa: The Promise" (2012)
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Christine Gordillo
Congratulations to Seniors Katie Jirousek, Lauren Lange, Alex Adamov and Jacqueline Lyall on finishing 8th out of 293 teams in their region in the Sifma Foundation Stock Market Game! The team participated as part of a classroom assignment for 5th period Economics with Mr. Lewis.
The game gives students $100,000 to invest in the Stock Market over a 10-week period and tracks their progress over that span. Teams of students from all over the state participate. Special thanks to the @LakewoooLakewood Rangers Education Foundation for providing the grant money for students to participate.
AND....
Mr. Lewis' students weren't the only stock market game winners. @westshorecareertech students in Business Management 2 attended Junior Achievement's Stock Market Challenge Day at the Federal Reserve last week and the team of Aidan Smith, Chris Mathaios and Brayden McCarthy won third place! The team of Lincoln Krish, Mihai Bogdan-Chindea and Nathan Kopkoas also won an award for investing their entire portfolio in a single asset class.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Jeff Fritz
Watching the Weather Channel lately, I've noticed that the reporters keep using the word “decent” to describe various kinds of weather.
Some decent snow, some decent rain. I've even heard them talk about some decent tornadoes! What's wrong with these people?
There is nothing “decent” about tornadoes, or any bad weather.
To make things worse, local weather people have picked up on this and are using “decent” to describe what is really INDECENT weather.
I'll bet that Dick Goddard would never use the term, nor would he say “New Philly” instead of “New Philadelphia.” There is no New Philly anywhere on the globe, nor is there a Philly or an Old Philly. If you are too lazy to say “New Philadelphia” just leave it out of the weather forecast. It's barely in the viewing area anyway.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
A cousin was visiting from out of town and wasn't familiar with Lakewood's pedestrian street crossing devices. She pressed the button and heard “Wait.” She replied “one-hundred-and-twenty pounds.” I thought it was funny because she's 130 if she's an ounce.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Not sure who's going to pay for the proposed football stadium in Brookpark, but it shouldn't be the taxpayers. There is plenty of money in football. If owners can't afford to build their own stadiums they should raise ticket prices and lower player salaries. Sign better TV contracts. Stop paying fortunes to lousy free agents. Get rid of a few hundred assistant coaches. Then pay for your own bleepin' stadium!
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Meghan George
The City of Lakewood has a history of aggressively seeking and leveraging external dollars from federal, state, county, and other sources. As many of you will recall, perhaps our largest single success in this area was receiving over $47 million from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reg- ulations for those dollars required that they be fully allocated by the end of 2024, and I am pleased to report that Lakewood met that deadline, using these funds to benefit Lakewood for decades to come.
The ARPA dollars came with strict guidelines and limited uses, but Lakewood was able to navigate those and leverage these funds for maximum effect. Early uses of ARPA focused on the immediate crisis needs of Lakewood residents, including $1.9 million dollars to help qualifying residents pay their rents, stay in their homes or apartments, and prevent eviction, foreclosure, and ultimately homelessness. Once crisis needs were addressed, the City of Lakewood focused on applying ARPA to address several other strategic needs.
The largest pool of dollars - over $31 million – went to reduce the burden of repairing our aged citywide sewer infrastructure. While this may not seem like an exciting use for these dollars, this was money that otherwise would have been assessed to our rate-payers in Lakewood – homeowners and businesses that use Lakewood water and sewer. By using ARPA dolars for sewer and watermain projects, we were able to keep down costs of utilities for Lakewood for decades on work that was an absolute must. We also were able to free up our bonding capacity, which would otherwise would have been largely eaten up with these very expensive projects, thus further saving interest payment expenses for the City. In many ways, these ARPA dollars were a lifeline and windfall to pay for water and sewer infrastructure costs that had been looming over Lakewood for many years.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Sarah Kepple
Incoming Councilmember At Large Angelina Hamilton Steiner shakes the hand of Judge Tess Neff after being sworn-in to her new role.
Neighbors, please join me in welcoming our newest Council Member at Large Angelina Hamilton Steiner!
On Tuesday, January 21st Councilmember Hamilton Steiner was officially sworn-in to serve the remainder of the term recently vacated by now State Representative Tristan Radar. Councilmember Hamilton Steiner was selected from an impressive field of 12 applicants after extensive review and public interviews on January 6th and 13th. She holds a Masters in Public Administration and is a Director and eRA Manager for the Northeast Ohio Medical University.
Angelina grew up in Lakewood, and has contributed extensively to her hometown as a volunteer, having served and led on a number of boards and commissions including the Charter Review Commission, the Community Health Needs Assessment Steering Committee and the AntiRacism Task Force. Ms. Hamilton Steiner is the co-founder and treasurer of a grassroots organization, the Madison Court Community Coalition (MC3). MC3 was formed in response to an incident of gun violence at Madison Park in 2021. Since then, MC3 has sustained a positive, proactive presence at the park, improving the safety and usability of the park for neighbors and visitors city-wide.
The letters that Council received in support of Councilmember Hamilton Steiner highlighted the depth and breadth of her impact on the City and spoke to Angelina’s strong work ethic and character, commitment to the community, and ability to bring people together to effectuate positive change. Angelina is the mother of two current Lakewood Rangers, and she has also volunteered with the schools and her children’s activities.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Debra O'Bryan
Correction for Save the Date
In the last issue, the Lakewood Black Caucus Kwanzaa Celebration article stated that the next community event would be on February 22nd. The actual date of the LBC Black History Month Celebration is Saturday, February 15th. For more information email: shirley.nelson@live.com or
Call 216-978-2626.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Corey Snipes
I cannot believe the district would consider these weak arguments for closing or repurposing the fine schools which the community so recently built, and which are providing an excellent education for our city’s young people.
We moved to Lakewood and chose Lakewood public schools because of the district’s excellent educational reputation, and history of commitment to our children.
While enrollment has clearly declined since the early 2000’s, recent enrollment figures (from the community engagement presentation) point to a stabilization in numbers. A careful look at the enrollment figures from 2021-2024 show a stable enrollment, and are not aligned with the (old) projection data shown for 2025-2031. The projected figures are no longer valid and should not be used as a basis for major facilities changes.
Attendance boundaries are a well-understood and common approach to addressing class size and school attendance inequity, as local neighborhood dynamics change over time. The task force should focus on the re-establishing attendance boundaries to address class size inequity and teacher travel issues.
If the district requires additional funds to continue operating at its current level, additional levees should be pursued.
The Lakewood community will gladly support additional funds, as long as we believe the district is making wise, long-term decisions for the future of our schools and our children. Closing or repurposing our excellent school buildings is short-sighted.
Corey Snipes, Edwards Ave (two kids in Lakewood public schools since 2018, Lakewood business owner)
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by City of Lakewood
In light of the string of power outages in the past month, the City of Lakewood reached out to FirstEnergy to gather details and advocate for a resolution to the problem. The statement we received from FirstEnergy can be read below:
We understand being without power is difficult—especially in these frigid conditions. The outages in Lakewood were caused by an equipment issue within a local substation. Our crews have identified the precise issue, and they are replacing a breaker within the facility to help prevent related outages in the future. We appreciate our customers’ patience while our crews complete this work today to enhance service reliability in your community.
There were four outages that impacted customers in Lakewood on Dec. 10, Dec. 29, Jan. 4 and early this morning (Jan. 7) – primarily all due to an equipment issue we’ve identified within a local substation and are addressing today with the installation of a new breaker. These have been the only outages affecting this area since Aug. 6, when our region experienced a historic storm and outages.
- The outage on Dec. 29 was due to the wind and snow event across northeast Ohio and lasted about 7 minutes.
- The outage on Dec. 10 was due to an equipment issue within a local substation and lasted about 3 hours.
- The outage on Jan. 4 was due to an equipment issue within a local substation and lasted about 15 minutes.
- The outage early this morning lasted about 50 minutes and stemmed from the substation equipment issue we’ve identified.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by City of Lakewood
City of Lakewood Police Department completes evidence gathering and evaluation of crash data that support felony charge in senseless death
On Thursday January 16th, Zachary Saliba was charged in Lakewood Municipal Court with Aggravated Vehicular Homicide for causing the death of Bill Safos of Lakewood. Safos was walking at the intersection of Hilliard and Madison on December 11, 2024 when Saliba struck him while recklessly driving his vehicle. Because the crime involved is a felony, Saliba has been bound over to common pleas court. Safos, a dedicated and longtime Lakewood resident who spent his career as a beloved local broadcast journalist, died at the scene.
“The Lakewood Police Department appreciates the public’s patience as we conducted a very involved investigation into this senseless and avoidable crime,” said Lakewood Police Chief Kevin Fischer. “We were fortunate to have the assistance of the Ohio State Highway Patrol as we gathered and evaluated the evidence. We look forward to seeing justice for Bill Safos and his family in court.”
Evidence gathered in the case documented that Saliba was operating his vehicle recklessly at the time he struck Safos. Video evidence shows Saliba committing aggressive traffic offenses just prior to hitting Safos.
“The death of Bill Safos was a tragic loss for his family and friends, for Lakewood, and for everyone who knew him. These charges represent an important step in ensuring justice for Bill, a longtime and deeply valued member of our community and an accomplished broadcast journalist,” said Mayor Meghan F. George, who also serves as Safety Director for the City of Lakewood. “I want to commend Lakewood Police for their exhaustive investigation and analysis, which revealed additional evidence on the reckless indifference shown by the driver who caused Bill’s needless death. Thanks also goes out to the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their assistance, external review, and expertise, which helped confirm key aspects of this case.”
Jim Rokakis has organized a Go-Fund-Me page for the family. Go to https://www. gofundme.com/f/support-for-the-family-of-bill-safos-in-this-time-of-tragedy
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Stephanie Jarosz
Meet Cheese! This 2-year-old girl has a warm and friendly personality, and adores having her back scratched. In fact, her name, Cheese, perfectly captures her adorable reaction when she gets a good scratch – she turns her head and reveals her teeth in delight! We want Cheese to find the perfect family to give her all the back scratches she deserves!
Meet Noel! This sweet 2-year-old girl is an American Staffordshire Mix. Noel is so full of love and adores affection. She was unfortunately found abandoned in Lakewood. She only weighed 19 pounds and was suffering from severe malnutrition and dental issues. Since she’s been at the Lakewood Animal Shelter, the team has worked to help Noel regain her strength and health. We want Noel to find the perfect family to shower her with love!
Visit Cheese, Noel, and the other animals at the Lakewood Animal Shelter located at 1299 Metropark Drive, just past the Dog Park. Contact the shelter at (216) 529-5020.
Lakewood Animal Shelter hours: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed on Sundays.
This message is shared by the Citizens Committee for Lakewood’s Animals and Shelter (CCLAS). CCLAS is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization committed to safeguarding and enhancing the lives of Lakewood’s companion animals. We provide financial assistance and other resources to the Lakewood Animal Shelter for the quality care of abandoned, orphaned, sick and injured animals. In addition, we promote adoptions and advocate for animal welfare through community outreach and education. We treat animals with empathy, kindness, and respect and recognize that they can experience pain, suffering, and other emotions. Learn more at cclas.org.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Christine Gordillo
Congratulations to Lakewood High School junior Mel Diemert on being chosen as a runner-up in the New York Times' Coming of Age in 2024 Contest! Students were asked to submit a piece of writing or art in response to the question, “What can you show or tell us to help explain what it’s like to grow up in this political moment?” Mel's piece of poetry was chosen from among 1,600 entries from across the nation!
Mel's entry:
Queer Kid Imagines An Alternate Reality/Politics Disguised as a Love Poem
Queer: A synonym for an absence of love
Not a new definition of love,
But its antithesis
In this world, I cannot afford indifference
I was unable to find it at Goodwill this summer
I limp through life as a statement, a red flag declaring war
In another world,
We sit on the floor of our bathroom, 25, after a long day of work
Your hair is up
The world is quiet
And softly pirouetting
I know how to make your coffee;
4 sugars, a splash of creamer
It overflows the cup and pours onto the yellowed, aging tiles
And the world is a newborn baby with jaundice
Orange, crying, glowing
Effervescent is the word carved into our skin
In this world, I don’t listen to the sirens go by
Instead, I lean my ear toward the babbling creek of your throat and tune everything else out
I trace hearts on your shoulder, smooth down a hair
Jesus died years ago, but I swear for a moment
I can see him painting us on an easel in the corner
Clementine shelters his canvas
Here, indifference was baked into my childhood brownies
I was born clutching it tight like an IV
When I lost my first tooth, I tasted it in my mouth instead of blood
Here, love and fear aren’t conjoined twins,
Split in half and told they are not the same soul
In this world, I have cried,
But never wailed
Back in reality,
I’m a cozy home for uncomfortable questions
TheCongratulations to Lakewood High School junior Mel Diemert on being chosen as a runner-up in the New York Times' Coming of Age in 2024 Contest! Students were asked to submit a piece of writing or art in response to the question, “What can you show or tell us to help explain what it’s like to grow up in this political moment?” Mel's piece of poetry was chosen from among 1,600 entries from across the nation!
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Christine Gordillo
Over the five months that we have engaged the Elementary Planning Task Force and the community through our Community Conversations about a possible reconfiguration of our elementary schools, many questions have arisen regarding the process. Hopefully, the Frequently Asked Questions below will bring some clarity.
Our next steps include gathering input from the community survey, which is open through Feb. 2, and reconvening the task force for four more meetings beginning in February. The survey is available on our website at www.lakewoodcityschools.org or you can scan the QR code on this page. More information regarding the task force can be found on our website's Elementary Planning Task Force page.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Christine Gordillo
Lakewood City Schools' Kindergarten Parent Information Night will be held Thursday, Jan. 30, 2024, from 6:30-8 pm in the Grant Elementary School cafeteria. Students must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 30, 2025 in order to be eligible to enter kindergarten in Fall 2025.The program will include a presentation from the Department of Teaching & Learning on details about the curriculum and the registration process Registration for the 2025-2026 school year also begins on Jan. 30. Preschool registration for 2025-2026 is open now.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Christine Gordillo
Join The Lakewood Project as they pay tribute to Women who Rock! The “Just a Girl” Concert is set for Saturday, Jan. 25 at 7pm in the Civic Auditorium. The concert will feature music by Fleetwood Mac, Blondie, Cyndi Lauper, Pat Benatar, Stevie Nicks, The Bangles, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift, Heart, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts and more. This is a great way to spend a Saturday night with your family. Enjoying music, singing and dancing and celebrating the talented student musicians of The Lakewood Project electric rock orchestra! See ticket prices below:
Pre Sale Adults $8.00
Pre Sale Students $5.00
Day of Adults $10.00
Students $8.00
Visit www.lakewoodcityschools.org to purchase tickets.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Judge Tess Neff
I am incredibly proud to share some of the amazing accomplishments that the court achieved this past year. It is challenging at times to meet our set goals, particularly with the significant increase in new case filings. For example, in March 2022, the court processed 503 new cases that month, compared to March 2023 which showed an increase to 599 new cases, and in March 2024, the new case filings jumped to 715. Despite the growing caseload, we are working harder than ever to maintain timely and efficient case flow.
In April 2024, the court launched the newly improved, modernized, and user-friendly court website after a complete overhaul. The website now provides a more mobile friendly outlook, provides more functionality for docket searches and payment of traffic tickets. Also, there is an embedded form for users to directly contact the court. Present day, individuals have better access to court information by computer or their phone if they choose not to visit in person.
May 2024 was full of excitement when the court learned it was awarded the Ohio Supreme Court’s Technology Grant for $150,000! Cumulatively, the court is now the recipient of $575,000 in grant funding within a two-year period. Courts throughout Ohio applied for the coveted technology grant, and Lakewood Court was one of only eight courts selected to receive the maximum $150,000 award. I am grateful to the Ohio Supreme Court for recognizing our essential need to improve technology.
You may recall from a previous article, the court was awarded a grant for $425,000 in January 2022, which was scheduled to close on December 31, 2024. I am pleased that we strategically and wisely utilized the grant funds. Those grant monies allowed the court to purchase necessary equipment for the staff, to improve court operations, which included the cost to have the Cuyahoga County Public Defender office on site daily for indigent defendants, and to help defray the cost of a new case management system to replace the current obsolete system. The Clerk’s Office staff received individual desk scanners, and laptops were purchased for administrative staff. Then in July 2024, the self-service check-in AdGators kiosk was installed in the court lobby. This kiosk was made possible because of the grant award. Individuals that appear for their criminal, traffic, and civil cases, simply check-in at the kiosk upon their arrival; the real time notification is immediately sent to the appropriate staff. The kiosk is extremely efficient. It is a resource for users, and it eliminates staff members taking time from their daily work to conduct the check-in process.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by martin jaffe
Romance will rule at the Blue Cafe, 15715 Madison Avenue, Lakewood on Saturday, February 15th, 10am, when noted local singer/songwriter Congito Jaffe returns to the Blue Cafe to serenade listeners soulful original music of timeless romance. Congito's melodic vision is enhanced by the enchanting lyrical poetic vision of his lyricist, the noted poet Lady Ives of Rocky River. Congito's vocal and guitar stylings bring her lyrics to life in the warm intimate setting of the Blue Cafe.
As Shakespeare noted, "Music be the food of love." Do come feast at the Blue Cafe for this much anticipated seasonal event.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Ava Olic
Loving Lakewood: Tuned In For Community tickets are on sale now! Both VIP and General Admission tickets are available for purchase through our website, so secure yours before they sell out!
Sponsored byCleveland Property Management Group, the event will take place Saturday, February 22 at the Lakewood Masonic Temple (15300 Detroit Ave.) from 7:30 to 11:00 p.m. The theme of our 12th annual fundraising event is classic television!
Featuring delicious food, refreshing beverages, a live auction, games and activities, a DJ, and more, it's set to be an unforgettable evening. Both VIP and General Admission tickets are available. It’s all about creating a sense of community—think of it as our own “studio audience“ joining together for a good cause!
VIP Ticket includes:
- Early entrance at 6:30 p.m.
- Access to preferred (first come, first served) free parking
- An open bar for the first hour
- 2 additional drink tokens (4 drink tokens total)
- A chance to enter into the VIP-only raffle drawing
- Plus all the General Admission offerings
General Admission Ticket includes:
- 2 drink tokens
- Heavy appetizers
- Access to all of our retro-TV themed activities and games!
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Meghan George
Happy New Year! As we welcome in 2025, I hope that everyone enjoyed the holiday season and enters the new year refreshed and hopeful. I always look forward to this time as an opportunity to reflect on the past year’s accomplishments.
For Lakewood, the past 12 months have been full of positive momentum. We continued to provide high quality services to our residents, maintain excellent fiscal stewardship of tax dollars, keep our city safe and attractive, and made strategic investments in key quality of life assets and major infrastructure initiatives. Below are some highlights for our community from 2024.
Finalizing Downtown Development Agreement: In December, the final version of the development agreement for the former Lakewood Hospital site was approved, allowing construction to break ground in the first half of 2025. The project will introduce the largest number of new housing units in over four decades to our city, while adding 25,000 square feet of retail, building a 536-space parking garage, restoring the historic Curtis Block building, and creating a new 17,000 square foot public plaza and community space where Lakewood can gather.
Safety Initiatives: The City continued to holistically invest in safety initiatives and policies. After a multi-year study, the speed limit on Lake Avenue was reduced by 5 MPH to 30, which should help with safety across the board, including cars, bikes, and pedestrians. The City purchased new state of the art radios for our fire and police departments with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars. The new devices boast advanced features facilitating seamless communication within their respective departments and with surrounding public safety agencies and bring our safety forces up to best-in-class radio equipment. The City also celebrated the graduation of itsfirst Citizens’ Police Academy class in years. Over 20 residents completed the program, which builds bridges andfosters understanding, trust, and cooperation through immersive experiences.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 2, Posted 3:44 PM, 01.08.2025
by Debra O'Bryan
January
Our State Representative, Michael Skindell of Lakewood decided not to seek re-election. Lakewood Councilman Tristan Rader stepped up to run for the seat. Issue 2 allowing marijuana use and regulation passed in the previous election, however it left much confusion as how to implement the law in Lakewood.
We saw the brand new expanded Refuse/Recycling Center open, making it a breeze to drive through and discard just about everything at different stations with upgraded equipment. Sarah Kepple was elected President of City Council making Lakewood the largest city in Ohio to have women at the helm of all three branches of government.
February
Our brilliant minds were once again featured on Academic Challenge. Rowan Brown, Yasmin Elhachdani, and Shannon Katzenberger revved up our Ranger Pride and went on to win! We went back down to visit East Palestine. We witnessed how the train derailment from the previous year completely devastated the town with little chance of recovery. It could happen here. The same toxic chemicals that were spilled, routinely travel through Lakewood.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Kevin Young
Tristan Rader is sworn-in as Ohio House Rep District 13 by Lakewood Judge Tess Neff
Tristan Rader was sworn in as State Representative for Ohio’s 13th District in a small private ceremony on January 1st. Known for his dedication to sustainability, healthcare equity, and community progress, Rader shared his enthusiasm for the work ahead. “Our district deserves leadership that fights for healthcare justice, environmental preservation, and economic opportunity for all,” he stated.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Sarah Kepple
Happy New Year Neighbors!
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Shirley Nelson
The Lakewood Black Caucus Kwanzaa celebration was held on Saturday, December 28th, which was the third day of Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa is a secular celebration of heritage based on seven principles founded by Dr. Maulana Karenga. Kwanzaa began the day after Christmas on December 26th and ended on January 1st. Families and communities came together to share a feast, to honor the ancestors, affirm the bonds between them, and to celebrate African and African American culture.
We began with an opening song, Lift Every Voice and Sing, by James Weldon Johnson. The lyrics of Lift Every Voice and Sing serve as a reminder for Black Americans that each generation has had to lift their voices, along with those within their community, to demand and protect their human rights. The celebration ended with a raffle and prizes and a community meal consisting of traditional African American soul food and desserts.
Guest speaker, Vince Robinson, is a multi-disciplinary artist and TV and radio talk show host and owner of Larchmere Arts, Cleveland. Vendor and artist, Alsie Clay, owner of Artisan’s Treasure, Euclid, provided a stunning piece of art to one of the raffle winners.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Eva Starr
ARIES: The Ram focuses this month on careers; for 2025, let’s focus on finishing something. You know you’re great at starting things but not so good at follow-through. Just Do It!
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Robert Organ
What makes Lakewood so great?
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Amy Reinker
Carolers at O'Neill Healthcare Lakewood
Each year, O’Neill Healthcare proudly hosts a cherished tradition across all six of its locations: the Annual Holiday Dinners. These special evenings are designed to bring together our residents and their closest family members or friends for a night of joy and holiday celebration. The events reflect the welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere that O’Neill Healthcare embodies as a family-owned and operated company for over six decades.
The dinners are a true collaborative effort, showcasing the dedication and care of our staff. Upon arrival, residents and their guests are welcomed into our festively decorated facilities, where tables are reserved to provide a comfortable dining experience and residents and guests are served dinner by our staff members.
The homemade meals that are served are prepared by our talented kitchen staff at each holiday dinner location. Some of the delicious food that was served at our homes included short rib, chicken marsala, homemade cheesecake dessert, and our Lakewood location even a special carving station. The menus are thoughtfully crafted, offering delicious dishes that bring a sense of comfort and tradition to the occasion.
To add to the festive ambiance, our homes feature a variety of live entertainment throughout the evening. This year, residents and guests enjoyed performances from talented musicians, including pianists, violinists, and string instrumentalists, as well as vocalists. There were even a group of carolers from a local church at our Lakewood location who volunteered their evening. The live music creates an atmosphere of joy, filling the rooms with holiday cheer. In addition to the joyous atmosphere, the evenings are also filled with photo opportunities and interactions with Santa Claus or even the Grinch! Residents, families, and guests are delighted in capturing memories with these holiday characters.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Virginia Suda
An example of bad boating
According to the ODNR (Ohio Department of Natural Resources), in 2023, there were 34,431 registered vessels in Cuyahoga County. The top two causes of fatalities on Ohio waterways both in 2022 and 2023 were falls overboard and capsizing with the known cause of death being drowning: 2022, 12 drownings and 2023, 10 drownings. In Ohio anyone born on or after January 1, 1982 and operating a vessel with an engine 10 horsepower or more is required to complete a NASBLA (National Association State Boating Law Adminstrators) safe boating course.
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 75 is offering two upcoming safe boating courses at Lakewood High School.
Both classes will run from Thursday, January 30-Thursday, April 3 from 7:00-9:00 at Lakewood High School. Both classes include Boat America course material which will qualify students for the Oho boater card. Possible insurance discount.
Boating Skills & Seamanship - Thursday, January 30-April 3, 2025–materials $45. Powerboat oriented. Boat handling skills and safety training including boating nomenclature, VHF marine radio procedures, navigation rules, etc.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Nancy Feighan
Ron Blondeauex, a longtime Lakewood resident, has lived a life rich in service, love, and community. He and his twin brother, Don, moved from farm country in Pennsylvania to Cleveland, eventually settling in Lakewood at age 13. After graduating from St. Edward High School, Ron was drafted into the Army. He and Don ended up in basic training together, with Don stationed in Germany while Ron served in Vietnam, overseeing security for a transportation company during a challenging time.
In 1969, Ron met his wife on a blind date arranged by Don’s then-girlfriend.They married soon after and have lived in the same Lakewood home for 55 years, raising three children and now enjoying two granddaughters. Their son and his wife also foster three young siblings, further strengthening the family bond.
Ron spent his working career as a millwright apprentice at Alcoa Aluminum before transitioning to a forklift road mechanic, covering the northeast region of Ohio. After retiring, he returned to work as a bus driver for Lakefront Lines. For two years, Ron drove 48 kids on a West Coast tour, starting in Colorado, traveling through the West, up to Canada, and down to San Diego. He'd drive from Cleveland to Colorado, pick up the kids, and continue the journey. The kids affectionately nicknamed him the "Best Grandpa Driver." Later, he worked as a truck driver for Margus Construction Co. and served as the mechanic for their equipment and tools.
Outside of work, Ron enjoyed building trailers from discarded parts and helping neighbors with projects like rebuilding decks and porches. His craftsmanship and generosity can be seen in many homes along his street.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Anna Bacho
For high school seniors who live in Lakewood. Lakewood Kiwanis have scholarships to award.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Jeffrey Siebert
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Caitlin Solomon
The Lakewood City School District is considering repurposing 1-2 elementary schools due to low enrollment. Many parents are aware of this issue, and the community at large should pay attention as well so we can preserve the distinct assets that constitute Lakewood.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Stephanie Jarosz
The Citizens Committee for Lakewood's Animals and Shelter (CCLAS) is hoping to find a loving home for an adorable dog named Noel.
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Betsy Voinovich
Rock salt distribution boxes are back at Kauffman, Madison, Cove, Lakewood Park as well as the Lakewood Dog Park for Winter 2024-2025. Residents may take home up to 5 gallons of salt for personal use on driveways and sidewalks.
Interested residents must bring their own shovel and bucket and load the salt themselves.
Please remember to secure the cover after use to help prevent the salt from hardening due to rain/moisture!
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 3:40 PM, 01.08.2025
by Meghan George, Mayor/Safety Director, City of Lakewood
I am excited to share some important updates on the downtown development process for the former Lakewood Hospital site. On Monday, Lakewood City Council approved a formal development deal negotiated between the City and the private development team of CASTO Communities and North Pointe Realty. This agreement spells out the final terms of the project and will allow construction to begin in the first half of 2025.
This agreement is a significant win for Lakewood on multiple levels, meeting the goals that our community set out during the initial visioning process. This development will bring with it hundreds of housing units with diverse options; thousands of feet of new commercial space; new jobs and income tax revenue; a welcoming public space; high quality architectural and environmental design; historic preservation of the Curtis Block; and increased activity in the heart of Downtown Lakewood.
Key aspects of the development include:
Housing: 305 total units of housing, including 293 new apartment units (including a number of affordable units) spread across three buildings, five fully renovated units in the Curtis Block, and seven townhomes on Belle Avenue;
Commercial: approximately 25,000 square feet of new ground floor retail in addition to the renovation of the Curtis Block historic first floor retail space, all of which will add new energy to Lakewood’s already bustling downtown business district;
Outdoor Community Space: a 17,000 square foot plaza and community space (situated between the Curtis Block and the five-story mixed-used building at Belle and Detroit) that will be used for frequent public events and gatherings. This plaza is in addition to a similar sized new public pocket park further south in the development and a linear park along Belle Avenue;
Read Full Story
Volume 21, Issue 1, Posted 11:45 AM, 12.18.2024
by Sarah Kepple
On Dec. 3rd, City Council passed Resolution 2024-75 highlighting Zonta International's 16 Days of Activism campaign that raises awareness and advocates for an end to violence toward women and girls. Free and confidential services are available through Journey Center for Safety and Healing. Call our text 216-391-4357(HELP).
Read Full Story
Volume 20, Issue 24, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025
by Sarah Kepple
Read Full Story
Volume 20, Issue 24, Posted 11:08 AM, 01.23.2025