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The Light Up Lakewood parade is a staple holiday tradition in Lakewood. 

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

Fall in Lakewood is a truly wonderful experience. On Halloween, it was fantastic to see so many children laughing and running from house to house in their colorful costumes, with their parents tagging along on our sidewalks. I can’t think of a better place to trick-or-treat than our city, with so many homes decked out in spooky fashion for the occasion and even more offering a treat or two to the excited kiddos.

Lakewood is also a special place to enjoy Fall because of our impressive tree canopy and the incredible palette of colors on display as the leaves turn in the Autumn chill. Whether it’s in one of our lovely parks or just walking or riding through our streets, I hope you all take time to soak in the inspiring scenery. I would also be remiss if I did not offer a related word of thanks to our amazing crew in Public Works, who do an excellent job with leaf pickup every fall and are out and about working hard as I write this.

November is also a time of thanks. This of course includes Thanksgiving, but it also includes Veterans Day. I was privileged once again to be able to take part in our City’s annual event to honor the brave and selfless women and men who have served and are currently serving in our armed forces. As we can see from current events, our world is still a place where conflict happens, and we are all grateful for the women and men who always stand ready to defend America.

Fall also brings with it election season and the opportunity for you as residents to set the course for future leadership of our city. I want to thank all of you who showed up to participate in our democracy this month. Voter turnout in Lakewood was high, showing how involved you all are and how deeply you care about staying involved in our civic duties.   

At tonight ‘s Council mtg the City of Lakewood, Ohio - Municipal Government adopted an Americans with Disabilities Act Transition Plan!

Thank you to advocates and Lakewood ADATPTF co-chairs Tracy Marie and Ahmie Polak Yeung, the other resident volunteers serving on the task force, and the Administration for their dedication to creating this plan and commitment to continuous improvement to make sure that our city facilities and properties are accessible to all in our community.

Hilliard Road is back open to two-way traffic. In the spring of 2024, the contractor will return to apply permanent pavement markings, as well as bike lanes.

Photo Credits: Amy Brown and Harding

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OZ WAS TWISTED AND FABULOUS! Congrats to the Harding crew on an outstanding production of “Oz is Twisted”! And thank you to our students, crew, staff, families, and community for making this happen! We are proud of you!


 

Do you know of an older Lakewood resident that would like to hear about the latest news of the District and enjoy a delicious breakfast? Our senior citizen holiday breakfast is one of our favorite traditions! Call now to RSVP as seats are limited.

Join Lakewood City Schools for a Holiday Breakfast for our senior citizens on December 14th, 8:45 til 10AM at Harding Middle School, 16601 Madison Avenue. Enter the parking lot off of Woodward Ave. Please RSVP by December 7 to 216-529-4074 or Christine.Gordillo@LakewoodCitySchools.org. 

Earlier this year, the Kent State University College of Public Health launched the Greater Cleveland LGBTQ+ Community Needs Assessment. With input from over 120 community organizations and in partnership with the LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland, the Kent State team designed a comprehensive assessment that will investigate the region’s strengths and deficits regarding resources and services available to the LGBTQ+ community.

A community needs assessment is a valuable tool for determining the health and wellness needs of specific populations. The Kent State project includes a variety of assessment methods, including an online community survey, focus groups, and stakeholder interviews. Critical topics to be addressed include health and wellness; religion and spirituality; education and literacy; housing, food, and basic needs; business, employment, and commerce; safety and law enforcement; and recreation and leisure.

Once the assessment is complete, the information gathered will be compiled into a summary and then presented to the public. Healthcare providers, researchers, faith organizations, and community agencies will be able to use this information to help focus future efforts to best serve the LGBTQ+ community.

Exciting morning at Roosevelt Elementary today! The school hosted volunteers from Junior Achievement for its JA in a Day program. The morning was filled with fun and interactive lessons on financial literacy and the different facets of our economy - both locally and nationally.

Congratulations to LHS senior Mia Carroll-Greeves on signing a letter of intent to play Div. 1 softball at Valparaiso University! Mia holds 3 school pitching records with a season yet to go! She is also a Scholar Athlete! Go, Mia! #RangerPride#ResilientRanger

Congratulations to the Lakewood High Model UN team for a successful Fall Conference held Nov. 6 & 7 at the Cleveland Council of World Affairs. Several team members earned honors: 

This is Anthony Mencini, former candidate for city council. I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and provide hope for the future.

The 1,240 of you who voted for me on November 7th have been wanting something different in Lakewood for some time, and I was poised to provide change given the opportunity. 

I was deeply moved by all the support through phone calls, texts, emails, front porch conversations, and donations, but alas, it just wasn’t our year...

However, there’s great hope to be had for the future. Change is inevitable be it in the form of a candidate like myself or a shift in the heart of someone currently in office. It happens all the time. Whatever form change takes, you can always expect it to be right on time. 

So, for now, keep your spirits high, vote your conscience, and continue to stay in touch with your representatives. They need to hear from you whether they want to or not! 

I believe this amazing community will do what’s right for each other, and I will be there every step of the way to do my part in any way I can.

Congratulations to the Lakewood High School student athletes who have been recognized by the Great Lakes Conference for their outstanding efforts during the fall 2023 season, including soccer Player of the Year, Isaac Craciun and Goalie of the Year, Louis Van Der Kuil! Below are our hard-working and dedicated athletes who earned recognition for their outstanding effort:

1st Team:
Cross Country: Charlie Payne
Football: Avery Holt, Aidan Maxwell
Soccer: Bukuru Bafukamire, Isaac Craciun, Helen Fraunfelder, Louis Van Der Kuil, Quincy Zvomuya
Volleyball: Delaney Garcia
Cheerleading: Kenla Hamilton, Piper Polen

2nd Team:
Cross Country: Josie Kvac
Football: Ed Horton, Donnie Mikuluk
Golf: Aidan Smith
Soccer: Butoto Bafukamire, Riley Forster, Seth Hammersmith, Touko Penttilae
Volleyball: Sophia Zarbo

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.”

An Encore Presentation of "Bomb City USA: The Danny Greene Era"

Presented by Dennis Sutcliffe

Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. 

Main Library Multipurpose Room

After being expelled from Collinwood High School, St. Ignatius and the Boy Scouts during a troubled childhood, Danny Greene went on to become the Irish-American gangster known as “The Irishman.”

Lakewood Public Cinema- "The Lavender Scare" (2017)

Hosted by Tom Stebel 

Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. (77 minutes)

Main Library Auditorium

In 1953, President Eisenhower declared gay men and lesbians to be a threat to the security of the country, leading to a forty year campaign to identify and fire all federal employees suspected of being homosexual. Join host Tom Stebel for this screening of "The Lavender Scare" (2017) which tells the inspiring story of Frank Kameny, the first person to fight his dismissal in a court of law.

Meet the Author- "This is Christmas, Song by Song: The Stories Behind 100 Holiday Hits"

Book by Annie Zaleski

Family Weekend Wonders

Wednesday morning. November 8 

Yesterday’s election was bittersweet for me. The sweet part is that Issue 1 passed by the sizable majority. This is a big win for women in Ohio. It guarantees a breadth of healthcare that would have been denied to women far beyond those who contemplate an abortion. I believe that it was necessary for Issue 1 to pass to guarantee access to qualified professionals for a wide range of women’s reproductive health care. Not just abortion.    

The bitter part was my loss of a seat on the Lakewood Board of Education. I have been so privileged to serve this community on the Board of Education for the past 40 years and had hoped to continue serving another four years. It has been a remarkable experience and an important part of my life.   

I have served with and gotten to know some remarkable people: school board members like Chas Geiger, Eleanor Chapman, Charles Day, Tom Einhouse, Betsy Shaughnessy, and Ed Favre. And remarkable superintendents like Richard Boyd, Joe Madak, and our current superintendent, Maggie Niedzwicki. I can’t thank these people enough for what they have given me and what they have taught me.   

Serving on the Lakewood Board of Education is indeed a privilege. And Lakewood is privileged this year to have elected three excellent new board members. Mike Callahan isn’t new, of course. He’s the current president and has been a true leader this past year, and is also a good listener and liaison with the community and a good team player when necessary.   

Fentanyl is the #1 cause of death in 18–45 year-olds. Most, if not all, of these deaths are unintentional. Lakewood High School PTA is hoping to help change that.

Join us for story time with St. Nick. Santa will visit with children and families at Lakewood Presbyterian Church from 2-4 pm on December 2nd, 2023. During this time, Santa will read a story with each group of children, then your child can take pictures with and tell their Christmas wishes to Mr. Claus. This event is free, but we will be collecting Diapers and Baby shower items for Haven Home. Treats and refreshments will be available as well as a few simple crafts to commemorate the season. Please register with Sign Up Genius by scanning the QR code or sign up with Aliyah Kennedy atakennedy@lakewoodpresbyterian.org. Merry Christmas!

Lakewood Presbyterian Church will be holding its annual Christmas pageant on December 10th during their 10am worship service. The Wise will search the scriptures and follow the star to find the promised one. Though there may have only been three gifts, all who sought him were wise. Please join us as the youth and children share their talents and gifts this special season. 

Many people understand that coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is available to those who don’t have access to health insurance through an employer. Typically, these folks include members of the self-employed workforce, people who have no health insurance, and people whose employer doesn’t provide health insurance. There have been some changes to the available ACA options for the coming year, says Carl Lishing, a licensed insurance agent with HealthMarkets Insurance Agency.

“New, affordable plans may be available. Plans and prices change every year. Your situation may have changed, too. You may find plans with coverage and features that better meet your needs—especially if you had or expect income or household changes,” he says. “One change, for example, is if a married couple is on one spouse’s insurance plan through an employer but finds the plan cost is too high. The add-on spouse can explore his or her options in the ACA marketplace to determine if there might be a  more affordable fit. The primary person carrying the insurance can stay with the employer-provided plan, but the spouse can look at options under the ACA.”

The Open Enrollment Period for the ACA runs from Wednesday, November 1, to Friday, December 15, which is the deadline to enroll to make sure you have coverage starting January 1, 2024. During that time, people can consider other plans that may be a better fit for their needs or opt to stay with the plan they had last year.

Subsidies May Play a Role:

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. 

MAYOR

Meghan George - 15,854
William Yeung  - 2,672

ISSUE 1 - Abortion

YES - 2,186,962
 NO - 1,675,728     

ISSUE 2 Legalize, Control Marijuana

YES - 2,183,734     
NO - 1,649,339

City Council

Ward 1
Kyle Baker - 3,658

Ward 2
Jason Schachner - 3,497
Anthony Mencini - 1,240

Ward 3
Cindy Strebig - 3,280

Ward 4
Cindy Marx - 2,765

Lakewood School Board (Top 3)

Colleen Clark-Sutton - 9,586
Michael J. Callahan - 9,481
Lisa M. Dopman - 8,164
Linda Beebe - 3,740     
Trish Hendy - 3,376
Martha Woerner - 2,542
Ahmie Yeung - 1,492
Rachael Mathes - 1,440
William D. Cline - 1,401
Ravindra Kulasekere-1,281

Tri- C Tax Renewal

For the Levy - 225,336
Against the Levy - 140,741

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I would like to thank everyone who took the time to decorate their homes for the Halloween season. I would also like to thank the observers who took the time to notice and send in nominations for their favorite houses, or to just call out a friend and neighbor and say thank you.

Dr. Yakoob Badat with Gov. DeWine at the announcement in Kettering on Nov. 3.

The West Shore Career-Technical District and Lakewood City Schools are thrilled to announce that West Shore Career-Tech has received a $5.78 million career-tech expansion grant from the State of Ohio as part of the State’s efforts to improve technical education and training across Ohio. The grant will allow West Shore to build facilities to house programs in welding and micro electronic mechanical systems (MEMS), which is the technology behind computer chips, among other applications.   These two programs will be housed at Lakewood High School and will be able to serve an additional 96 West Shore Career-Tech students from Lakewood, Bay Village, Rocky River and Westlake. West Shore Career-Tech is a consortium comprised of those four school districts.

"We are delighted to hear that we have received the grant funds for two new exciting programs. Advancing educational and career opportunities for our students is our mission," said Lakewood Superintendent Maggie Niedzwiecki. "Each of these additions accelerates our students' abilities to gain employment in high-demand jobs when they graduate." 

Dr. Yakoob Badat, educational coordinator of West Shore, added: “The acquisition of $5.7 million in funding will empower us to establish cutting-edge welding and MEMS labs. This significant grant is an investment that will drive innovation and create new opportunities for our students. Thank you to the state leadership for supporting career technical education and workforce development.”

UH Urgent Care Lakewood West is now open.

UH Urgent Care Lakewood West opened October 23, and is located at 14800 Madison Avenue, in Lakewood on a busy road across from Walgreens in a popular neighborhood. Beginning November 1, all UH Urgent Care facilities, including this new location, will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week, with special hours on some holidays. This new convenient location in Lakewood will increase patient access to care.
 
“Our UH Urgent Care delivery model aims to provide the most convenient and valuable care for our patients,” explained UH Chief Operating Officer Paul Hinchey, MD, MBA. “Having easy access to urgent care locations provide a more affordable option than emergency departments for patients who don’t have a primary care physician but need immediate, non-life-threatening medical attention. By offering more urgent care locations, we can relieve the burden on emergency departments and reduce wait times so our emergency medicine teams can focus on critical cases.”

The new facility will be equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by experienced healthcare professionals dedicated to providing compassionate, efficient, and personalized care to patients of all ages.
 
UH Urgent Care President Lee Resnick, MD, looks forward to the expansion. "Our primary goal is to reimagine urgent care for Northeast Ohio by removing obstacles and easing access to care while delivering exceptional patient experiences,” Dr. Resnick said. “The expansion of UH Urgent Care in Northeast Ohio is a significant step towards fulfilling this commitment. By increasing access to urgent care services, we aim to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families throughout the region, providing them with the prompt and effective care they deserve in retail locations where they live, shop and work.

The world lost a remarkable woman with the passing of Julie Strunk, whose dedication to children and passion for literacy left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Julie, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and advocate for early literacy, spent close to twenty-three years of her life at Lakewood Public Library, working to create a brighter future for generations of children.

Julie began her library career at the Madison Branch. It was here that she found her calling to be a children's librarian. Earning her MLIS degree while working full-time, she eventually became the Manager of Children's and Youth Services at Lakewood Public Library. Julie had a deep love for books and a desire to share that love with others. Her friendliness and willingness to help made every visit to the Library a warm and welcoming experience. She worked closely with the Lakewood school system, forging strong partnerships with local educators and students. She organized class visits to the Library, providing an invaluable opportunity for young learners to explore the world of books. She initiated outreach programs, bringing the library experience directly to schools, and helped in securing for teachers and students the resources they needed each school year.

Julie was also a champion of children with disabilities and served on the board of Connecting for Kids, an initiative that provides education and support for families who have concerns about their child’s development. Recognizing the community’s need and what a valuable resource this organization could be for both parent and child, Julie collaborated with the Healthy Lakewood Foundation to bring Connecting for Kids and adapted programming to Lakewood Public Library.

Julie was a source of encouragement to her colleagues, inspiring and motivating them in their library careers. Her work ethic was hard to match, with one co-worker describing her as “the hardest-working person” she’d ever met. She was a decisive leader who was generous with her time and grateful for her staff. Her impact went beyond the professional sphere; Julie's innate kindness and generosity made her a compassionate listener and a good friend.

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.

On November 18th, the City of Lakewood and our operating partner, Lakewood Community Ice (LCI), will be hosting a grand re-opening of the Winterhurst Ice Rink. This event marks the culmination of our initial efforts to reposition this important city facility to maximize its benefit to our Lakewood community. The City’s overarching goal continues to be to make Winterhurst  an affordable, inviting, community-focused ice rink that first and foremost serves the needs and priorities of the people of Lakewood. We believe recent updates have moved us toward achieving that goal.

Some of the recent changes in operations and investment to Winterhurst have included both operational changes and capital investments. On the operations side, we are excited that public skating and educational opportunities are now back and seen as a primary function of the facility. This includes programming for Open/Public Skate, Parent-Tot Hockey, Adult Drop-In Hockey, and Adult Skate. We also have excellent new concessions (Zamboni’s of Lakewood) and pro shop (Perani’s Hockey World) operators in place to serve the needs of our users.

Initial physical improvements include a refresh (e.g., new paint) for the lobby, concessions, and lounge areas, as well as a 100% replacement of the skates (both hockey and figure) available for the public rental use. We also have ensured the designation of a girls' locker room and made necessary repairs to several areas of the facility. And I’m proud to report that the traditional signage, name, and logo for the “Winterhurst Ice Arena” are back in use and prominently displayed inside and out.

Congratulations to Lakewood High seniors Turner Gilliland and Ryann Stirling on having their artwork selected for Otterbein University's 5th Annual Juried Art Exhibit! Turner and Ryann's pieces were  two of 65 chosen from more than 250 submissions. The exhibit will take place in December. Turner and Ryann are also eligible now for a $3,000 scholarship if they choose to attend Otterbein.

During the past several years, social emotional learning in schools has been a hot topic, hasn't it? Here in Lakewood City Schools, we've identified SEL, Diversity, Equity and Belonging as the lenses through which we approach our Vision of a Lakewood Ranger. We believe that parents and caregivers are students' first/most important influences for social emotional development, and we look forward to sharing ideas and insights! Lakewood City Schools administrators are hosting a parent/caregiver session to share foundational information about SEL and then open the session for an informal dialogue. There will be light refreshments and free child care by Help to Others (H2O) at the in-person session.

NOVEMBER 

ARIES: Looks like the Ram’s financial stars are continuing, the Sun is shining on other people’s resources, & Jupiter has landed in your house of money/assets – be thankful for your blessings.

TAURUS: The Bull’s relationship pen is lighting up, along with your self-esteem; strut yourself out of that Bullpen & have all your significant peeps over for a slice of the pumpkin pie.

GEMINI: The Twins have double to be thankful for this Holiday season; your health is looking up, with an added ace up your sleeve in your behind-the-scenes arena, keep your eyes/ears open.

CANCER: The Crab’s house of romance is lighting up like the Sun. Your friendships have Jupiter sending generous blessings your way; carve that Turkey with joy & glee in your heart.

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The Lakewood Department of Human Services threw an amazing Halloween celebration at Cove that surpassed all expectations. It included an impressive show of lions, witches, superheroes, and princesses, showcasing an abundance of creativity. We want to thank all the participants, both young and young at heart, for making this event an unforgettable experience.

Ohio Senate Minority Leader Nickie J. Antonio and State Senator Steve Huffman testify on Senate Bill 101.

This General Assembly, Senator Steve Huffman and I have once again jointly introduced legislation to end the use of the death penalty in the state of Ohio, replacing it with a sentence of life in prison without parole for capital cases. Senate Bill 101 is historic for several reasons.

Death penalty repeal bills have been introduced in Ohio many times over the last decade. While it might be tempting to think that we still haven’t arrived at the right moment, we speak to our colleagues in the Statehouse every day, and the momentum for ending the death penalty is palpable.

Though there has always been bipartisan support for abolishing the death penalty, this General Assembly’s bill has brought together the strongest bipartisan and bicameral effort yet. The bill is sponsored by over one third of the Senate, including five Republicans and seven Democrats. The House also has a bipartisan companion bill, House Bill 259, which has already received multiple hearings this year.

These benchmarks are unsurprising. For many legislators, abolishing the death penalty has been described as a commonsense policy. Not only is the death penalty at odds with moral, religious and pro-life stances, but capital punishment is an enormous drain on our state’s financial resources. In Ohio, the cost of prosecuting a capital case is ten times more expensive than that of a non-capital case, even before accounting for years of appeals that may follow a conviction.

WordStage concludes its 2023 Season with "A Calvacade of Thurber" – a tribute to Ohio author, illustrator and humorist, James Thurber. 

The program begins with an excerpt from an interview Thurber did for The Paris Review, conducted by George Plimpton and Max Steele. In it, Thurber recounts amusing anecdotes of everything from his writing process to incidents from his own life that shaped his signature amusing and idiosyncratic literary and artistic output to often wry and acerbic observations about various writers, friends and colleagues with whom he worked and associated. 

The second part of the program will consist of readings of some of his most famous and frolicsome fables, including “The Little Girl and the Wolf,” “The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” and “The Unicorn in the Garden.”  These will be accompanied by a selection of manic melodies that underscore the quirkiness of Thurber’s delightfully skewed stories. 

The program will be presented in the Wright Chapel of the Lakewood Presbyterian Church – 14502 Detroit Ave, in Lakewood, on Saturday, November 18th    at 7:00 p.m.  For more information and reservations, please visit our website at www. wordstageohio.org and/or call Artistic Director Tim Tavcar at 440-857-0717. 

Charlotte Beno plans to attend Ohio State University this fall and begin an Exploration Program.

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.

Meet the Author- Cleveland Noir

Presented by Miesha Wilson Headen

Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

Cleveland Noir navigates the dregs of the North Shore, where Eliot Ness hunted for a serial killer and the murder of Marilyn Sheppard made national headlines.  Award winning journalist Miesha Wilson Headen along with select contributors present Cleveland Noir, an anthology from renowned local authors edited by Headen with Michael Ruhlman.

Terry Meehan Film Series- Frenzy (1972), Directed by Alfred Hitchcock

Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. (116 minutes)

Main Library Auditorium

Presentation-Route 6, Presented by Gary Hunter

Wednesday, November 15, at 7:00 p.m.

Main Library Auditorium

Come learn about U.S. Route 6 from Gary Hunter, the Executive Director of historic Route 6 for the State of Ohio.

Bob and Molly Blum who were married earlier this year.

Photo Credit: Addie Crnko

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There's no age limit when it comes to celebrating Halloween.  Ask residents at Haven Senior Living.  On October 23 they were treated to an afternoon featuring the Just A Numb3r Dance Crew whose members represent mature (55+) entertainers.  Lakewoodites may remember them from their inaugural appearance during the July 4th parade.

The troupe came decked out wearing team shirts plus individually chosen Halloween accessories such as striking headpieces, spider jewelry and tutu style skirts.

They performed to "Ghostbusters" and then to "Monster Mash."  For the latter, the choreography and monsterly moves were often in sync with lyrics, such as "a jolt from my electrodes."  The clever routine was created by Just A Numb3r founder and leader Shirley Drayer.

Group member Denise also led the audience in what could best be described as "dancing in their chairs" to the "Macarena" song.

The squad populates the greater Cleveland area, with some living right here in Lakewood.  Most are former or currrent members of the Wine & Goldies, the senior dance team for the NBA Cavaliers.  The approximately 20 total participants appear intermittently on dates accommodated by their personal schedules or in accordance with location space constraints.

Positive feedback was received by Leslie Smith, Life Enrichment Coordinator at Haven.  She praised the dancers as being "phenomenal."  Resident, Sandra, told her, "that was so neat! I'm itching for more!"  The energetic Crew plans to return to the venue during the holidays to once again demonstrate that age IS just a number!

Lakewood City Schools’ Vision of a Lakewood Ranger does not just apply to the classroom and the work being done by the Student Leadership Athletic Team (S.A.L.T.) is proof positive! Through a series of projects that these student-athletes are spearheading, they are simultaneously displaying our Vision competencies of collaboration, communication, empathy, growth mindset and global citizenship at the highest levels. The aim of the projects is to connect our athletic program across grade levels and to the greater community as well.

At a recent Board of Education meeting, the S.A.L.T. members spoke about the projects each of them is leading. A sampling of projects that S.A.L.T. hopes to accomplish include:

• Hosting military, youth and senior citizen nights for each sport.

• Organizing a community-wide Homecoming 5k with an L-shaped route through the city.

• Reaching out to elementary students with visits to schools to share the Rec Department opportunities available to them.

• Continuing Ranger Readers program where student-athletes read stories to younger elementary students and share their experiences in youth sports.

S.A.L.T. is comprised of 56 mostly seniors and sophomores, the makeup of which is designed to have the senior leaders mentor the sophomores and help guide them into future leadership roles. Each senior is responsible for heading up an initiative.

Athletic Director Rob Slone, now in his second year with the District, believes S.A.L.T. is key to his mission of creating a culture in Ranger Athletics that embraces the connection between our sports participants across all grade levels. It reinforces the concept that we are all Rangers!

Girls Who Code Club

For Students in Sixth through Twelfth Grade

Are you interested in learning more about computer science? Join our Girls Who Code Club this fall, 2023. Sign up once for all sessions.

Monday, November 13, 2023: Environmental Public Service Announcements (Scratch) in the Main Library Computer Connections Room

Family Weekend Wonders

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 am

Madison Branch- Fridays at 10:30 am

Music Therapy & More by Connecting for Kids

For You and Your Birth to 6-Year-Old Child

This program is designed for children (ages 0-6 years) who have concerns about development. Join us for a hands-on program designed to teach families how to use music to improve their child's academic, motor, communication and social skills as well as behavior. This program is led by a Board-Certified Music Therapist.

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/

Each year, the Rotary Club of Lakewood and Rocky River provides grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that serve youth, adults and the community-at-large within Lakewood and Rocky River.

The Club is now accepting applications for its 2023-24 grant cycle. The deadline for applications is Thursday, November 9, 2023; grants will be announced in January 2024. Grants generally range from $2,500 to $5,000. Organizations may submit only one application.

The Rotary Club focuses its funding primarily on programs and projects that benefit residents of Lakewood and Rocky River in the following areas: hunger, health services, housing, youth development, and community quality of life.

The grant application form can be accessed on the club’s website, www.lakewoodrockyriverrotary.org. The completed application form and requested attachments should be submitted via email to grants.lrrrotary@gmail.com.

For additional information, contact Curt Brosky at 216-702-1075, or the grants email address above.

Financial accountability and wise stewardship of your tax dollars continue to be a fundamental pillar of my administration. As the City of Lakewood enters budget season again this fall, our department chiefs are working diligently with our finance team to align our expected revenues to continue supporting high-quality services and investing in the strategic needs of our community. We all look forward to partnering with Lakewood City Council to allocate a budget that recognizes the fiscal realities we face, yet also continues to position our city for the future and deliver the public services our taxpayers expect and deserve.

Volunteers participate in Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corporation's Thanksgiving Food Drive in 2022. 

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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.

Kiwi Wongpeng, chef and owner of award winning restaurant, Thai Thai.

Photo Credit: JoAnn Larsen/SLA Video Productions

Attention fans of TV cooking shows! Did you know that Lakewood has its own "food network" of sorts? Well, yes!

A year ago, the Lakewood Community Services Center, headed by Executive Director Trish Rooney, determined that free, live cooking demonstrations would be advantageous to low income seniors receiving emergency food distributions through LCSC. The Cove Community Center (formerly Cove United Methodist Church) was about to open, and it welcomed the idea of hosting the presentations as a way to increase attendance for their new facility. Lakewood's Three Arches Foundation provided funding for the program through grants.

The series title, "A La Cart," is in recognition of the inanimate star of the show, the "Charlie Cart," which makes it logistically possible. The Charlie Cart can best be described as a "kitchen on wheels" and is used to teach basic cooking techniques. And, stationed behind the Charlie Cart each month at Cove is a chef from one of Lakewood's eclectic eateries!

Although devised to assist older adults in the preparation of wholesome meals, A La Cart, as stated in the inaugural demo by Melt Bar and Grilled's Matt Fish, is "geared toward seniors but really geared toward everybody." Now, chef-inspired menu items from some of your Lakewood favorites can become part of your personal repertoire! Observing the process step by step, accompanied by simple directions and tips, makes it easier to try at home.

Once visitors are seated within the Cove Center, the featured guest prepares a dish from their establishment right before your eyes. The action is simultaneously filmed, and a screen above the demo offers a bird's eye view of what's happening directly below (via Akron Drone Services). Questions from the audience are welcomed, and recipe cards are handed out (also to keep) so you can follow along. Soon you will experience enticing aromas and observe as mouth watering dishes come into being. At the conclusion, samples are offered.

We asked for questions to be sent in for Board of Education candidates, here are the top 5 Questions and the Candidates Answers.

1. LENGTH OF SCHOOL DAY:  Lakewood has the shortest elementary school day of any district in Cuyahoga County. Would you be willing to consider lengthening the elementary school day by 30 to 45 minutes? Why or why not?

2. ENROLLMENT:  Declining enrollment could pose a threat to the broad curriculum that is the hallmark of Lakewood City Schools. What ideas do you have for maintaining or increasing enrollment?

3. CURRICULUM:  This year, the amount of time elementary students spend in music and physical education was cut by over 50%. What is your understanding of the role that early music and physical education play in the long term cognitive, social and physical development of a child? Do you favor restoring this time?  

4.) TRANSPARENCY: While the Board of Education/Administration has sent out surveys and put together citizen committees in the past, when difficult decisions have needed to be made like the closing of an active school or curriculum changes, readers felt that those processes had predetermined conclusions and that the opinions of the community were not actually represented or considered. They cited the Phase 3 committee and the recent reduction of music and physical education at the elementary level as examples. How would you bring a more transparent, inclusive process to the way decisions are made and shared with the public?

5.) SAFETY: Lakewood High School was in the news this past year for being chosen for the implementation of safety measures like installing ballistic film on cafeteria windows and upgrading locks on classroom doors. Would you consider adding metal detectors and safety officers at points of entry throughout the District?

THEIR ANSWERS

Colleen Clark-Sutton

EXPERIENCE: I have more than 25 years of teaching experience at the high school and college level.  I hold certifications in school administration and DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion). I have 2 children that grew up in and graduated from the Lakewood City Schools: I was an active member of the PTA throughout their school years. As a member of all three phases of the 50-year committee, I have a thorough understanding of what goes into our educational facilities and an ability to determine the cost versus value of different proposals.  I am an effective collaborator and communicator as evidenced by the success of three school levies and three school bond issues for which I was part of the campaign leadership and several local political campaigns that I managed. I work hard and persistently for the Lakewood City Schools, with compassion and open-mindedness, to find solutions for the challenges that face us.  

1) LENGTH OF SCHOOL DAY: Yes, I am willing to have that conversation. I support a thorough review and community conversation about changing the elementary school day for our students. This could include examining resource and staffing allocations for equity across all student ability levels. This could be a multi-month study seeking input from all school district stakeholders. Which subject areas are essential to student development and success? How much time is appropriate for quality teaching and learning? What are the administration’s contractual obligations? What costs are involved? Are there any savings to be realized? Can the community afford any changes to the status quo? Is there a rationale for keeping the elementary schedule as it is? (This requires collection of data via appropriate survey instruments open to multiple stakeholders, focus groups with teachers and other district staff, and community meetings that are widely advertised and offered at different times and days of the week.)

LO READERS' QUESTIONS FOR COUNCIL CANDIDATES:

1.) RESIDENTS CONCERNS: Name two things you have learned while speaking with residents: what are their biggest concerns about their ward, and what are their biggest concerns about Lakewood in general? How will you address these concerns as their councilperson?/How are you addressing these concerns as their councilperson?

2.) HOSPITAL PROPERTY: The "holespital" -- the site of the former Lakewood Hospital -- was brought up by many readers, one who pointed out that Lakewood teenagers make jokes about it on TikTok and Instagram. We've had suggestions that it be turned into an ice rink and a nature preserve. What can you do to bring something to that area that Lakewood residents can be proud of?

Councilperson Jason Shachner - Ward 2

EXPERIENCE: My background and experience make me the best candidate to address residents’ everyday concerns and to turn their ideas into legislation and policy. After graduating from college, I served as an AmeriCorps VISTA Fellow for the non-profit organization Turning the Page in Washington DC. I then pursued my law degree at Case Western Reserve University School of Law. After graduating I dedicated seven years as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in the Felony Division of the Lake County Prosecutor’s Office, handling cases from drug possession to aggravated murder.

In my current role as Assistant Director of Law for the City of Cleveland, I provide legal advice and counsel to members of the City Council, the Administration, and various city departments. My responsibilities include representing and advising the Department of Public Safety, the Mayor’s Office of Capital Projects, the Board of Zoning Appeals, and the Civil Service Commission. I also draft legislation, policies, and legal opinions. 

1.) RESIDENTS' CONCERNS: The two main concerns I hear from residents are speeding and the condition of rental properties owned by out-of-state landlords or LLCs. Regarding speeding, I am working on revising the Traffic Calming Program's criteria to increase the number of eligible streets. One proposed change includes redefining survey responses, where non-responses would be considered abstentions rather than "no" votes, giving residents that choose to participate more say. Additionally, in the Public Safety Committee, we are exploring the feasibility of installing speed cameras in school zones and determining the legal ramifications of installing them elsewhere.

Out-of-state landlords and LLC-owned properties present challenges in enforcing building codes. I am exploring measures included in Cleveland's Residents First legislation, such as mandating that these entities appoint a person in Cuyahoga County who is legally responsible for the physical and financial condition of the property, to improve Lakewood’s ability to hold negligent landlords accountable. 

2.) HOSPITAL SITE: I share residents’ frustration with the slow progress of developing the former Lakewood Hospital site. On September 18th, we had a Committee of the Whole meeting with the developer, CASTO, to learn what progress they have made since Roundstone withdrew from the project. The developer was able to revise their plan, but financing has become more difficult because lenders are currently not providing loans for projects over $50 million. CASTO proposed completing the project in phases to allow it to continue to move forward. The hope is that once the first phase begins, market conditions will adjust, and the developer will be able to complete all phases of the project. I, along with my colleagues, will continue working to ensure that the development meets the needs of Lakewood and that the developer incorporates the items we listed in Council’s Term Sheet Priority Communication, which you can read here: https://www.lakewoodoh.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Council-Term-Sheet-Priorities-Communication-PostCOW-Final.pdf.

READERS' QUESTIONS FOR MAYORAL CANDIDATES

1. What are the two most important issues facing Lakewood right now? What is your administration doing to address them? 

2. What way can you suggest that citizens of Lakewood could become more involved in taking good care of their city?   

Mayor Meghan George

EXPERIENCE: Lakewood has been my home for more than 40 years. I'm a third-generation resident, I grew up on Rosalie Avenue, and attended St. Luke Elementary School and Lakewood High School. After graduating from LHS, I earned my bachelors degree from The Ohio State University. I also hold a life and health insurance license and a post-bachelors degree from Cleveland State University. Prior to becoming Mayor of Lakewood, I was elected to Lakewood City Council-at-Large and worked as a consultant to large organizations throughout Ohio, advising them on employee benefits and human resources. I helped employers meet their workforce’s needs while reducing costs, remaining compliant with labor regulations, and planning for the future. I live in the heart of Lakewood with my toddler Maggie and my partner Matt. I enjoy frequenting Lakewood’s beautiful parks and recreation.

TWO MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES FACING LAKEWOOD:  Lakewood's aging infrastructure and sewers and the use of city dollars are two imminent issues facing our city. To address the immediate need to upgrade our sewers, my administration included sewer upgrades in Lakewood's 2023 budget, and we started the sewage replacement project in March and are still working on completing it.

Additionally, my administration has saved the city taxpayer dollars so that residents and businesses can better focus on what is important to them by utilizing federal economic recovery ARPA funding to pay for capital projects like sewer upgrades and recreation amenity renovations instead of using city dollars. The City of Lakewood has also won the Ohio Auditor of the Year award for city fiscal responsibility each year of my term as Mayor of Lakewood, an award only five percent of Ohio municipalities receive.      

CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT: To better take care of our city, citizens can tune into what's going on in the city government by attending city council and school board meetings and weighing in on local issues. Citizens can frequent our small businesses and utilize our public amenities. They can also be mindful of the roads by mitigating public safety issues that we can control like driving the speed limit and making the streets safer for everybody on the road. And ,they can play their part in a greener and cleaner Lakewood. We can all work together toward making Lakewood the best place for families, residents, and businesses of every kind.

William Yeung

EXPERIENCE: I have been training and educating myself on public governance since I was 12. I have volunteered on many campaigns since 2016 and have asked candidates many questions, including their goals and plans to achieve them. I started college coursework in 7th grade, receiving a Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership from Cleveland State University. I have served on city advisory boards and attended many public civic engagement meetings of various types.. Some may hold my age and lack of real-life experience against me, but I see it as freeing from being stuck on a particular way of things. My fresh perspective allows collaborations to find better solutions to problems, and I aim always to keep an open mindset to any feedback while seeking out quality mentors and advisors.

TWO MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES FACING LAKEWOOD: From discussions I have had with Lakewood residents, the top two issues Lakewood faces now are health care and housing. We have not had a proper hospital since 2016, when the Lakewood Hospital was decommissioned and torn down. While the Family Health Center does offer some treatment options, they do not provide inpatient care. My administration would work to solve this issue by partnering with organizations to create a satellite hospital, staffed in innovative ways that build on educational opportunities in the region..  To solve housing issues, I see the first step to be discouraging property neglect by landlords, and present a program that would connect homeowners to reputable contractors, in collaboration with students at LHS. 

LO READERS' QUESTIONS FOR COUNCIL CANDIDATES

1.) Name two things you have learned while speaking with residents: what are their biggest concerns about their ward, and what are their biggest concerns about Lakewood in general? How will you address these concerns as their councilperson?/How are you addressing these concerns as their councilperson?

2.) The "holespital" -- the site of the former Lakewood Hospital -- was brought up by many readers, one who pointed out that Lakewood teenagers make jokes about it on TikTok and Instagram. We've had suggestions that it be turned into an ice rink and a nature preserve. What can you do to bring something to that area that Lakewood residents can be proud of?

Cynthia Strebig - Ward 3

EXPERIENCE: I’m an elected Cuyahoga County Democratic Party Central Committee member and I’ve served on the Executive Committee for the last five years. A strong advocate for democracy,  I volunteer with the Lakewood Democratic Club and the Lakewood chapter of the League of Women Voters. In addition, I’m on the board of the Lakewood YMCA to help fundraise for those in need, and on the board of the Cleveland Stonewall Democrats, where I interview and educate candidates and inform voters about them. As an activist and member of GRR and the Cuyahoga Democratic Women’s Caucus, I promote equity and equality for all. 

1.) RESIDENTS' CONCERNS: Thank you for this question. I have been canvassing Ward 3 and speaking with residents about their questions and concerns. Many people that I’ve talked to don’t have any concerns and are pleased and thankful for our community and city services. Some neighborhoods are experiencing issues with deer and rats, while others are very concerned about the speed of motorist on their streets. I’m bringing awareness of these concerns to the people at city hall and on city council that can assist me with solutions. Safety must be our first priority and slowing people down on our residential streets must be addressed through education, intervention, and penalties when necessary.

2.) HOSPITAL SITE: Understandably, change is very difficult for some people and patience is not often practiced by everyone. I too have been hearing the desires of some residents to take down the fence and use the area for recreation. My concern for this type of activity on a construction site is safety. Not knowing what debris lies below the groomed surface could cause serious injury to children, pets, and adults. We have to be patient and trust that professionals are working to bring a new project to this space that will make us proud and thankful for due diligence.

Councilperson Cindy Marx - Ward 4

EXPERIENCE: No matter if the Council represents a specific ward or the city at large, the goal of the City Council is to listen and respond to the needs of its people. As residents, no matter where we live in the City, we want to walk safely on the streets, live with respectful neighbors, ensure the value of our property is safeguarded and feel a sense of pride in our city. I work to empower the residents of Ward 4 and throughout the city to be involved in the community. As a long-time Lakewood resident and activist, I am proud of my service to the City of Lakewood and look forward to serving again as Ward 4 Council representative. I introduced and passed our Human Rights Ordinance when I last served on the City Council, sending a message that Lakewood is a safe place for everyone to feel at home. 

Cooking fires was one of the top reasons for home fires. Kitchen fires can be avoided if you make sure to follow a few simple rules. One rule may be to check your fire alarm twice a year.

Kitchen fires are fires that happen while cooking. Cooking fires can happen because maybe you accidentally left a flammable item on or near a stove and it caught on fire. Another possibility that can start a kitchen fire could be you left oil on the pan and you left it for too long and it starts a kitchen fire. Also remember to never put water on an OIL fire or it will spread more, instead smother it with the lid of a pan.

You can prevent a kitchen fire by making sure that you don't leave the stove on if you're not cooking because if you do you may start a kitchen fire and have some very burnt food! You should also make sure that you don't leave anything like paper towels, napkins, cardboard or really anything near the stove. Also if you have loose clothing don't reach over it, if you do your clothes will catch fire. If that does happen make sure to stop, drop and roll.

If there is ever a fire, always tell an adult and make sure to ALWAYS call 911 and get out of the house immediately. Also make sure that you always have the latest two ways to get out of the house and room. It's also important to make a safe place to meet up outside and you should always practice fire safety at least two times or more a year.

The main reason for this essay is to teach you how a kitchen fire starts and how to prevent it from happening so that it can save your house from catching fire. So i hope that you learned how to prevent fires from happening.

My name is Anthony Mencini and I’ve been campaigning hard to be your next city council representative in Ward 2. I would be honored to receive your vote on or before November 7th, and here's why:

I moved to Lakewood at an early age and graduated from St. Edward High School, only to move back after college because I knew Lakewood was special.  I even found a wholesome community at St. Luke the Evangelist and bought my first house here. 

I know fully in my heart, this is my home—a place filled with unparalleled vibrancy and potential.

I care deeply about Lakewood and I want to give my time and abilities to our community.

The following three focus points will define my career as your representative:

• The “Hole” or “Pit” where the hospital used to be will be brought back into the conversation and see serious progress toward development. 

• Local Businesses will be held in higher regard. No more restrictions or hurtful over-scrutinization of conduct. Lakewood’s attractiveness to new firms will rise as a result.

• Property Tax Relief for homeowners across Lakewood would also be at the top of my list as your next city councilman. I will advocate and spearhead the charge toward tax reform and consult with our representatives in Columbus.

Being a city councilman is not solely about the big ticket issues, however. It’s about the very real problems you experience, which the current city council hasn’t paid much attention to.

I know full well that local government policy affects your daily life more than any other level, so it is my duty to listen and abide by the goals you put before me.

As your councilman, I will have regular meetings—at least quarterly—and provide comprehensive monthly updates regarding Lakewood’s municipal agenda.

Inside Miss Frippery's Emporium

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My name is Camelia Carter and I am the author of "The Incredible Miss Vicky" and the original founder of No More Heroin.

It has taken me a little over 7 years to fully rejoin the land of the living since losing my son, RJ, to overdose in 2016. 

After spending years working from home doing customer service, I now buy, sell and trade antique and vintage costume jewelry with other collectors.

It is with great expectations of brighter days ahead for myself and the community I intend to serve that I present to you...  Miss Frippery's Costume Jewelry Emporium on Madison Avenue in Lakewood, OH! 

In my shop, you can expect to find incredible vintage and contemporary jewelry, along with beautiful handbags, shoes, clothing, accessories, collectibles and more. We even have a smidgeon of "guy clothes"!

My place is pretty much wall-to-wall, curated fabulousity, with fun, funky and unique treasures everywhere you look! 

Miss Frippery's is also designed to be a somewhat communal space, welcoming individuals and small groups to use my broken jewelry pieces to create and consign or keep new pieces of jewelry or art. 

I like to think of my place as a complete, not-to-miss experience.

Come see for yourself! There's no place quite like it anywhere! 

And by the way...  If you or anyone you know has antique or vintage costume jewelry that needs a new home, give me a call. I'll probably buy it all! 

Located at:

12211 Madison Ave, Lakewood

Open Tues Thru Sun 12pm-8pm

Call 440-999-1559

www.MissFrippery.com

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After a three year hiatus, our city’s Welcome to Lakewood community event returns on Wednesday November 1! 

This long standing community gathering provides opportunities for Lakewood neighbors old and new to connect with their city, get resources and meet new people. If you are new to Lakewood or looking for additional opportunities to connect with your community, Welcome To Lakewood is a fun event to learn more about local civic organizations, services, and ways to get involved in your hometown!

Come meet Lakewood city and school officials, as well as representatives of up to 50 local organizations, like the Beck Center, the Lakewood Family YMCA, and our Lakewood Public Library, along with activities for kids, and yummy treats from local bakeries. All attendees will leave with a packet of information all about Lakewood.

LCRAC is excited to bring this valuable forum for new and long-time Lakewood residents to learn about many of the great organizations, businesses, and opportunities available to Lakewood. This year Welcome to Lakewood will be held on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 from 6:30- 8:30 p.m. at Garfield Middle School, 13114 Detroit Avenue. 

If you have questions or are a local business or organization that would like to set up a table or provide in-kind donations please reach out to LCRAC via email at commrel@lakewoodoh.net. 

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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Last year skeletons ruled our Halloween landscape, and they're here again. But, with the arrival of other haunting characters, should we go so far as to say we now have a turf war, our own version of "West Side Story"? Not really. Skeletons are spending time with family and friends, hanging out in the yard or even playing ping pong. However, if ghosts attempt a takeover, who you gonna call?

Dear Lakewood Community,

As a collective of Lakewood City School graduates, retired and current teachers, parents of former students, and staff both near and far, we have been disheartened to hear of the changes implemented in the elementary school day schedule resulting in drastic reductions to both music (60%) and physical education (50%) class times.
The addition of instruction in STEM and digital literacy is well-intentioned and we can appreciate that it seeks to meet the advancing needs of today’s world. Still, we know that it is possible for the integration of these subjects to be carried out in a way that does not impair student experience and engagement. We believe that Trish Hendy is the best candidate for the Lakewood City Schools Board of Education. In our personal interactions with Trish, we have come to know her as hard-working,
caring, and honest. Consistent with our Lakewood tradition, Trish Hendy values art and music education, and we support the changes she has proposed to restore music, art, and PE offerings in the district. We know that, if elected, Trish will be a tireless advocate for the students of Lakewood Schools, just as she was during our time at LHS. Trish Hendy supported and believed in all of us when we were Lakewood students; we hope that she is given the opportunity to share her passion for Lakewood and Lakewood’s students as a member of the Board of Education. Vote Trish Hendy for Lakewood Board of Education.

Respectfully,
Greg Culley LHS Class of 2010
D. Sweeny (former board of education member), Dr. C. Greanoff ‘77, M. Hildebrandt ‘68 (retired 27 years in LKWD), Dr. B. Hankins (34 years), G. & J. Wondrak (retired 26 years and 15 years respectively), M. Wightman (retired), J. Tabaj (33 years, retired), T. (Coyne) Andreani ‘82, P. & H. Hilty ‘72, M. Lisi (‘91-’97, retired), T. & T. Selby (retired 23 years and 30 years respectively), L.(Welty) Mueller '81, M.Mueller ‘07, B. Mueller-Calvitti ‘09, L. (Mast) Girman ‘73, Dr. C. IaculloNygaard ‘01, K.Smith ‘99, C. Lavelle ‘98, C. Woodard ‘98, K Tee ‘93, C. Scealf ‘99, M Vondrak ‘97, K. Bindel ‘00, Z. Schroll ‘06, M. Tabor ‘00, C. Studer ‘98, K. Bindel ‘98, B. Connor ‘99, T.Peckens ‘97, J. Robinson ‘98, G. Culley ‘10, M. Trnavsky-Carnovale ‘98, N. Palmieri ‘98, J. Christensen ‘97, E. Brett ‘98, J. Fleming Wroblewski ‘94, K. Smith ‘06, J. Browning 98, N. Pearce ‘91, C. Holmes ‘91, R. Lowe ‘97, C. Crawford ‘91, M. Fox ‘94, A. Wasielewski ‘05, N. Cleary ‘97, B. Craven ‘08, K. Maclean ‘93, D. Tardivo 06, J. Wilks ‘95, K. Hurst ‘06, B Novotny ‘97, B Novotny ‘98, G. Browning ‘76, S. Petrone ‘19, R.Kosmowski ‘98, M. Spooner ‘98, M. Kiley ‘98, M. Mays ‘98, K. Van Stratton Banda ‘97, J Youngs ‘98, A. De Sorgo ‘88, K. Eubanks ‘97, G. Ott ‘97, N. Bocchicchio ‘98, M. Wurstner ‘96, S. Wroten ‘03, A Bartos ‘22, A. Perez ‘09, G. Blackburn, A. Stevenson ‘04, E. Jackson ‘10, K.Tuleta ‘07, T. Hollander ‘07, B. Wroten ‘04, M. Horn ‘13, V. Hamm ‘07, A. Neidert ‘10, S. Stewart ‘07, J. Kless Sharma ‘08, A. Hinshaw ‘06, G. Gilbert ‘06, M. Davis ‘20, P. Eberl ‘74, D. & L (Holchin) Lutsock ‘91 and ‘90, S. Holchin ‘96

Dear Neighbors,

I proudly support Colleen Clark-Sutton for Lakewood City School Board, and I am writing to ask you to join me in voting for her on or before November 7th.

Qualified and Lifelong Educator

Colleen Clark-Sutton’s career in education reflects her dedication to lifelong learning, both for herself and her students. She is intellectually curious, and embodies the growth mindset characteristic of our City Schools’ Vision of Lakewood Graduate, continuously learning from and finding inspiration from others, and putting in the effort to achieve mastery while also welcoming and seeking out opportunities to grow. I actually first met Colleen as her technology teacher, in a class she paid for out of her own pocket because she thought it might help her students and she wanted to learn. Colleen Clark-Sutton’s professional educational accomplishments include:

• A Masters in Education John Carroll University

• Experience teaching High School Social Studies in Garfield Heights

• Current service as an Adjunct Professor at Tri-C, and experience teaching at Baldwin Wallace and Kent State

• Advanced studies on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion through the University of Colorado

   

This column is meant to inform and inspire you to vote for Anthony Mencini for city council, representing Ward 2.

I had the pleasure of getting to know Anthony over the last several months. He is a young man who cares deeply for Lakewood and believes that he can have a positive impact on our city. 

I don’t live in Ward 2, but Lakewood is a small town in some respects, so what happens in one ward can affect the entire city.

He has been a Lakewood resident for 10 years, graduated from St Ed’s in 2016, and is a St Luke’s parishioner. 

Anthony is full of enthusiasm and youthful energy. He is independent minded and would be ideal for introducing more intellectual diversity to Lakewood’s Council.

He strives for a personal connection with those in Ward 2 above all, but his single most important issue is to expedite development of the empty Lakewood Hospital plot, which has been undeveloped for years since the hospital was demolished.

I spent years volunteering at the hospital for the benefit of our community and would like to see that plot be used for our benefit once again.  But, alas, the barren lot serves no one other than to remind us of what we once had—a functioning hospital that was easily accessible to all Lakewood residents.  

Anthony happens to be business friendly which coincides perfectly as he will encourage big firms to fill the empty space, while also adding higher paying and stable jobs to our city. 

If you are a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking, and you live in public housing, have a housing voucher or if your housing is otherwise supported by the federal government, then the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) protects your rights as a tenant.

VAWA prohibits a landlord in these public and subsidized housing programs from:

1. Refusing to rent to an applicant solely because the applicant is, or has been, a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking;

2. Evicting a tenant who is the victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking because of threats or violent acts committed against the victim – even if the acts took place on the property, and even if they were committed by a household member or a guest; and

3. Holding a tenant who is a victim of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking to a higher standard than other tenants in any way (noise, damage to the rental unit, etc.).

In addition to VAWA, tenants also have protection under the Fair Housing Act’s anti-discrimination policies. Four in five victims of domestic violence are women, and women cannot be discriminated against due to their gender in housing situations. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) LGBT Rule requires equal access to HUD-assisted/insured housing regardless of actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity or marital status.

Further, anti-discrimination protection also applies to private landlords who have FHA-insured mortgages or participate in the Housing Choice Voucher Program. You have rights as a survivor of abuse and can take steps to protect yourself from housing discrimination.

Questions you might be asking yourself:

I don’t feel comfortable disclosing my history as a survivor to a landlord – how can I describe my living situation?

Many survivors are not comfortable talking about their situation but under VAWA landlords must keep that information confidential. Public and subsidized housing providers must keep the information confidential unless (a) a survivor gives consent in writing to release the information, (b) the information is required for an eviction proceeding or hearing regarding termination of housing assistance, or (c) the law otherwise requires.

For those who will be participating in the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, which this year runs from Sunday, October 15, until  Thursday, December 7, your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) may have provided some information regarding the costs associated with your current Medicare plan and any changes for 2024.

Because Medicare plans can change, there may be a possibility, says Carl Lishing, a licensed insurance agent with HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, that your plan could offer different coverage for 2024. “Since plans and costs can change each year, I believe it’s important to review and understand your current plan to ensure it meets your needs for 2024,” Carl says.

Carl says that part of his personal service model is to meet with his clients one-on-one to help them understand what their current plan offers them, whether it’s still going to meet their needs moving forward, and whether there are any cost increases associated with having that plan. “With each of our clients, we dive into the details of Medicare,” he shares. “The first is prescriptions. We’ll help you ensure your medications are covered and that the cost of your prescriptions meets your budget. Then we’ll talk about your provider network. We’ll help you choose a plan that includes your doctors and hospital. Finally, we’ll discuss what your plan covers, and any costs associated with the plan.”

“As a licensed insurance agent, I want to help guide you through the Medicare Advantage enrollment process and help you Find a plan that fits your needs,” Carl says. Aside from helping you with your Medicare options, there is a component to the process that only Carl can offer— his friendship.

“My focus is on the people I help,” he emphasizes. “This isn’t a transactional relationship. This is about helping people. I can work with you. I’m a resource. I’m available to you throughout the year, not just during the enrollment period.”