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The City of Cleveland is proud to announce that it has officially signed the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact (MUFPP), joining a coalition of 300 cities worldwide committed to developing sustainable and equitable urban food systems. This milestone comes as Cleveland completes it’s first-ever Food Policy Landscape & Audit, a tool for understanding the city’s food landscape and setting a path for coordinated action.
The audit, conducted over the past year in partnership with the Harvard Law School Food Law & Policy Clinic, examines policies and programs across the city’s food system. It provides an initial assessment of where Cleveland is succeeding and where there are gaps. The findings now serve as a baseline as Cleveland steps into global collaboration through the Milan Pact.
“The health of our city starts with the health of our people — and that means rethinking how we grow, share, and access food in every Cleveland neighborhood,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “Food is not just a basic need — it’s a foundation for opportunity, dignity, and resilience. By completing this audit and joining the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact, we’re making a clear commitment: to center equity in our food system, to invest in our local economy, and to build a future where all Clevelanders can thrive.”
By signing the Milan Pact, Cleveland is aligning itself with six key areas of action: governance, sustainable diets and nutrition, social and economic equity, food production, food supply and distribution, and food waste. The city will use the audit’s recommendations to develop a clear roadmap for progress in each area.
Key Opportunities as a Signatory of the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact:
 Access to global best practices and peer learning to strengthen Cleveland’s food system
 Support for policy innovation in areas like sustainable public procurement, circular food
systems, and inclusive food governance
 Tools to track progress through the MUFPP Monitoring Framework
 Elevated visibility and leadership on the world stage as a city advancing food justice, public health, and climate resilience
“Joining the Milan Pact gives Cleveland a new platform for learning, sharing, and growing,” said Zainab Pixler, the City’s Local Food Systems Strategies Coordinator. “Together with the Food Policy Landscape & Audit, we now have a clearer picture of what’s working and where we have room to grow. This is an important step toward building food sovereignty here in Cleveland.”

The second portion of the Food Policy Landscape & Audit, a deep dive into key areas of improvement, will be published in June.
Learn more about the Milan Urban Food Policy Pact: https://www.milanurbanfoodpolicypact.org/
To access the Food Policy Landscape & Audit, visit https://www.notion.so/Cleveland-s-Local-Food-Policy-Landscape-Audit-1df8944e923b80c6bc38dd9211abde79.

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The Cleveland Department of Public Health (CDPH) is committed to improving the quality of life of City residents by promoting healthy behavior, protecting the environment, preventing disease, and making the City a healthy place to live, work, and play.
CDPH offers a range of programs, including clinical, environmental, health promotion, and population-based services.

Our mission is to promote and protect the health and well-being of residents, communities, and partners in the City of Cleveland. Our vision is to be the most responsive, trusted, and impactful health department in the country. For more information, please visit
www.clevelandhealth.org.

PRESS RELEASE

The Cuyahoga County Office of Child Support Services has launched new online tools for document signatures and live chat, aimed at making the agency more accessible and easier to use for parents and getting resources to children faster.

“New and improved resources give families better options and access to child support services,” said Tiffany Dobbins-Brazelton, Director of the Cuyahoga County Office of Child Support Services. “By implementing DocuSign and chat support through our website, the Office of Child Support Services is increasing the ways in which people can access the resources they need.”

DocuSign is a software platform that allows users to electronically sign and manage documents. It is being used by the Office of Child Support Services for the Application for Child Support Services and Hearing Waivers. Both forms can be accessed on the Office of Child Support Services website, replacing some manual paper-based processes and eliminating the need to print, mail or be physically present at the agency to file these documents.  

Live Chat support is now available to assist clients with basic questions regarding child support services. Individuals seeking guidance about how to establish a support order, how to make support payments, or similar matters can chat with an agent Monday – Friday between 10 AM – 2 PM. The chat option is available on the Office of Child Support Services website. For more in-depth case-specific questions, individuals are encouraged to call the Contact Center at (216) 443-5100.

Lorain-Triskett Locksmiths Inc., 15802 Lorain Ave., has been a trusted name in Cleveland’s West Park neighborhood for decades, serving many Clevelanders from its longstanding storefront.

While the original brick-and-mortar location no longer providing in-person services, Lorain-Triskett Locksmiths continues to serve the community through its mobile locksmith offerings. This transition allows them to bring their trusted expertise directly to customers’ doors, offering greater convenience in today’s fast-paced world. ​

Customers have praised their professionalism and reliability. One reviewer noted: “… Bob is my knight in shining armor! Arrived in a jiffy! Promptly solved my problem at a very reasonable price…” ​

Lorain-Triskett Locksmiths Inc. can be reached for mobile service at (216) 252-3336.

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Tuesday, April 8 was Library Legislative Day. A delegation of 10 Cleveland Public Library (CPL) staff along with a CPL trustee and a patron met with legislators in the House and Senate to advocate for continued funding for Ohio’s libraries. The timing was significant given the proposed changes to library funding unveiled in the House budget last week.

Thank you to each and every one of you who contacted your representatives and for speaking up on behalf of Cleveland Public Library. Your efforts paid off. Over 9,000 messages were sent. Your stories made a difference. Our voices were heard, and progress was made. The Ohio House changed their budget bill.

The state budget is now with the Senate, and the process will not be completed until the end of June. There is still work to be done. We will continue to work alongside our fellow library systems to advocate for the restoration of the Public Library Fund (PLF) to 1.75% per Governor DeWine’s proposed budget.

Thank you to each and every one of you who contacted your representatives and for speaking up on behalf of Cleveland Public Library.

What can you do? 

Stay engaged. Share your story with us! These stories make a difference. Share why you love your library, a personal story about what the library means to you, or how the library has helped you and your family.

Stay tuned for our advocacy newsletter, launching in May to stay informed about our work and how you can support our efforts.

Thank you for believing in libraries.

PRESS RELEASE

The Anthony J. Celebrezze Federal Building is a landmark in downtown Cleveland, and stands as a symbol of public service, justice, and civil rights. The federal workers employed there play a vital role in contributing to the economic stability and growth of the City of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County. The County administration is aware of the discussions surrounding the potential sale of the building and has been in contact with federal officials. Cuyahoga County urges leadership within the federal government to reinvest in the building to ensure that all federal jobs are retained in our urban core.

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Mayor Justin M. Bibb released the following statement today:

“I am deeply outraged by the Trump Administration’s unjust decision to withhold 553,000 pounds of food that was intended to help Ohio families in desperate need. This egregious action not only deprives half a million individuals, including children, served by the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, but it also threatens the health, safety, and well-being of our Northeast Ohio community.

There is a difference between scaling back the federal footprint and callously stripping food from families who rely on it for survival. The starkness of this distinction is so profound that it is almost unimaginable that such a decision could even be considered, let alone executed.

My administration will continue to stand in full support of the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, offering both our time and resources in solidarity with the residents we serve.

If you are able, please consider making a donation to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. Your contribution will help provide a lifeline to those who need it most.”

Cleveland’s beloved German-inspired restaurant, Der Braumeister, is serving up a mouthwatering Lenten menu once again! Beginning on Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025, and running through the Lenten season, the restaurant is offering a delicious selection of seafood dishes perfect for Friday fish fry traditions.

Located at 13046 Lorain Ave, Der Braumeister has long been a local favorite for its authentic German cuisine and impressive beer selection. This year’s Lenten specials include a mix of classic and creative offerings:

• Battered Shrimp with Hush Puppies & Fries – $15
  Hand-battered shrimp served with your choice of any $4 side. Looking for the perfect pairing? Try a Spring Maibock Beer from Ayinger—a light amber-colored bock with a smooth, slightly sweet, and malty finish.
• Salmon & Spargel – $20
  Roasted salmon topped with a German mustard glaze, paired with white asparagus, salt & vinegar roasted Yukon potatoes, and finished with a rich Mornay sauce.
• More seafood favorites including walleye, salmon, and shrimp will be available as part of the Lenten menu.

Reservations are highly recommended as the Lenten season tends to draw a crowd. Whether you’re observing Lent or just looking for a fantastic Friday night meal, Der Braumeister’s fish fry is a must-try.

To view the full menu or make a reservation, visit the Der Braumeister website or follow them on Facebook and Twitter for updates.

Don’t miss out on this seasonal tradition—gather your friends and family and head to Der Braumeister for a taste of Lent done right!

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 Fourteen promising entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds have been selected to participate in an innovative new real estate development program with a clear mission: to break down historical barriers and empower these individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to shape the future of Cleveland’s communities.

The Cleveland Equitable Development Initiative, or CLE-EDI, will bolster the ranks of successful minority real estate developers in the region and to stimulate economic growth in the communities from which these entrepreneurs hail.

Yvette Ittu, president and CEO of Cleveland Development Advisors, underscores the significance of this initiative, stating: “These entrepreneurs possess a range of business experiences, but the intensive real estate development training and mentorship this program provides will significantly enhance their chances of success.  By nurturing these motivated individuals, we will not only foster greater diversity and inclusion in our real estate community, but will elevate their capabilities in development.

CLE-EDI is a joint effort by Cleveland Development Advisors (CDA), which provides expertise and financing to real estate projects that advance economic and community development; Cleveland Neighborhood Progress, a local community development intermediary that invests in community revitalization work in Greater Cleveland; and Capital Impact Partners, a mission-driven nonprofit lender based in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.

“This program is imperative due to the profound disparities in the industry stemming from limited access to capital and training, the persistent wealth gap, and the absence of a cohesive network of service providers and mentors to empower these individuals to enable them to play a meaningful role in shaping our collective future,” Ittu added.

One of the CLE-EDI program cohorts is Hosanna Mahaley, founder and CEO of Legacy RED (Real Estate Development) Group, a woman and minority owned general contracting and construction management firm. Legacy has provided professional services on 200 real estate projects, including with public entities in Northeast Ohio, Chicago and Dallas. She is a former teacher and public education leader, eventually serving as the State Superintendent of Education for the District of Columbia.

“I’m deeply committed to the revitalization of Cleveland,” said Mahaley, a native of Hough. “Returning to this city was driven by my desire to give back to the community that has given me so much.  The east  side is Cleveland’s Cinderella and it is time for it to gain its rightful place in our city’s past, present and future.  My vision is to offer world class senior housing in an area that is often overlooked.  This program will provide extra support to help me cross the finish line.  A recurring challenge for developers of color is the scarcity of financial resources.  This program will provide invaluable insights into overcoming this obstacle and turn my plans and ideas into reality.” 

The other 13 entrepreneurs selected for the program are:

April Bebee, CEO of Phoenix Development Group, LLC, has a passion for transforming neighborhoods.  The Cleveland native is very deliberate in their engagement of local residents and stakeholders.  She is also a licensed financial services professional and a long time employee in clinical research at the Cleveland Clinic. Her extensive community outreach includes working with underserved youth in the real estate development space.

Andre Bryan, managing partner for BridgePort Group LLC, a minority and veteran-owned small business that provides innovative solutions for global supply chain, logistics, warehousing and distribution services.  Andre’s firm has been recognized as the Small Business of the Year by the Ohio Minority Supplier Development Council.

Jermaine Brooks, realtor and managing member of WRJ Developers LLC, a minority developer in Cleveland. Recent WRJ work includes ArkiTainer, a 64-unit apartment building being built from shipping containers on 72nd Street in Cleveland. He has been a licensed Realtor for 10 years with Keller Williams Greater Metropolitan, and is an active member of the City of Cleveland Airport Minority Advisory Council.

Akil Hameed, founder and CEO of FASS Real Estate Services, which manages more than 500,000 square feet of commercial and residential properties in Northeast Ohio. As an experienced broker, property manager and business professional, Hameed has an established record of success with diversity and inclusion initiatives throughout many of his corporate dealings.

Jimmie Hicks III, a board member and project director for housing rehab for Start Right Community Development Corporation, a family operated non-profit in the Caledonia neighborhood of Cleveland Heights.In September 2022, he was named Deputy Director for Responsible Gambling for The Ohio Lottery Commission.

Tiffany L. Hollinger, owner of Hollinger Financial LLC. She is a entrepreneur, Realtor, real estate investor and financial advisor. She has more than 25 years of financial service and 10 years of real estate experience.

Ariane Kirkpatrick, president and CEO of the AKA Team, a commercial construction and facilities company. Ariane is an experienced contractor providing collaborative management and construction services. AKA’s larger projects include work for the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, the Cleveland Museum of Art, Horseshoe Casino and Cuyahoga Community College. Kirkpatrick is also CEO of companies with provisional large-scale medical cannabis cultivation, dispensary and process licenses in Ohio.

Jimi Oluwabiyi, a real estate developer with Lael, LLC. He began his real estate development career in 2002. His residential work has expanded to multi-family development and has also worked on property management, contractor management risk assessments, financial analysis and stakeholder management. His civic work has included being appointed to the New African Immigrants Commission of Ohio.

Dominic Ozanne II, project manager for Ozanne Construction Company. He manages multiple projects throughout Northeast Ohio. He first worked for the company’s team in New Orleans as a member of the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office Recovery Program following Hurricane Katrina.

Evin Peavy, a real estate developer with DC Kelly Investments in Cleveland who focuses on transforming communities through inclusive projects. He has a passion for revitalizing urban landscapes and promoting inclusiveness within neighborhoods. He has experience in multi-family and commercial mixed use project development.

Christopher D. Roberts, a CPA who has worked for a number of Fortune 500 companies and now leads financial strategy for global procurement and supplier diversity & inclusion at Amazon. He has been involved in various aspects of real estate, including serving on a non-profit board providing low-income housing for senior citizens and the acquisition and development of multiple mixed-use buildings.

Dontez Sanders, founder of DS Group Real Estate Investments, a property management group that has managed more than 1,000 units in Northeast Ohio. Sanders, a former Cleveland Browns and University of Wisconsin football player, went into real estate after his career with the Browns.

Khrystalynn Shefton, chief of growth and expansion at Birthing Beautiful Communities, which is working to build the first Black-led free-standing birth center in Northeast Ohio. Her desire to impact Cleveland and its neighborhoods led to urban planning and development education, and she has served as director of real estate and development planning for the Famicos Foundation.

The program, which begins this week, will pair experienced developers with emerging developers to help launch their projects.  The list of developer mentors has also expanded and can be found here.

PHOTOS BY KATE RYBAK

BY JESSIE SCHOONOVER

It doesn’t get more delicious than the Kamm’s Corners Greek Festival! This year has been well attended so far, with anxious eaters filling their plates or to-go containers with favorites like moussaka, pastitsio, spanakopita, gyros, Greek fries, and more.

The Kamm’s Corners Greek Festival began Friday, Sept. 1, and runs through Monday, Sept. 4, ending at 9 p.m., at the George Varouh Cretan Club of Cleveland, 3853 W 168th St, Cleveland, OH 44111.