A media source by and for the Cleveland neighborhood of West Park
Photos by Kate Rybak
Fun cruising on a gorgeous summer day in West Park! View photo coverage below of the annual St. Pat’s Cruise-In & Ice Cream Social held on Wednesday, Aug. 2 from 5 to 8 p.m.
PRESS RELEASE
On July 26, Senate Minority Leader Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood), state Senator Stephanie Kunze (R-Dublin), Hamilton County Commissioner Denise Driehaus and members of the Hamilton County Commission on Women and Girls held a press conference to discuss funding in the budget to provide no-cost period products in Ohio schools.
“Menstruation is a natural, biological occurrence that’s experienced by more than half the population—just as a lack of access to toilet paper is unhygienic and a danger to one’s health, the same is true of lacking access to period products,” said Leader Antonio. “I am pleased that this budget bill includes a provision for the basic health and hygiene necessities for girls, and I look forward to seeing expanding access to period products as we work toward menstrual equity in Ohio.”
This appropriation was recently signed into law as part of the state operating budget, House Bill 33. Leader Antonio and Senator Kunze introduced the budget amendment that will allocate this funding. It will provide $5 million in fiscal year 2024 for schools to provide free period products in schools. Of the $5 million, $2 million will go toward installing product dispensers and $3 million will go toward purchasing the products.
“I am grateful our amendment to provide period products to our 6-12 grade students was included in the Senate version and final version of the state operating budget,” said Senator Kunze. “We heard from advocates throughout the state that this will significantly aid in ensuring less truancy and stigma, and promoting productivity and participation in the classroom.”
At least 30 states and the District of Columbia have laws easing access to period products, and Ohio joins more than 20 states that have legislation to increase access in schools specifically. Providing students with freely-accessible tampons and pads can increase school attendance by 2.4% and reduce the documented health risks that they may face when experiencing a lack of access to these essential products.
“It is imperative that all students have every opportunity to learn in our schools. Eighty percent of teens have reported missing class time or knew someone who had missed school due to not having access to period products,” said Commissioner Driehaus. “Providing no-cost period products in Ohio schools enables students to attend class, reduces period poverty and fosters gender equity.”
The bill requires all public and private schools that enroll girls in grades six through 12 to provide free period products for those students. The bill further permits schools to offer free period products to students below sixth grade if they so choose and determine where the products are to be kept in the school.
Watch the full press conference here.
MEDIA RELEASE
Mayor Justin M. Bibb announced today that Matthew J. Cole will be the new Director of Human Resources for the City of Cleveland.
“We are pleased to bring Matt on board and believe that his community-centered HR philosophy and more than two decades of experience in the field make him the right person for the job,” said Mayor Bibb. “I look forward to working with him to modernize our HR operations and find new and innovative ways to recruit, retain and support our employees across the city.”
Cole will assume the role from Interim Director Edward Romero, who has been leading the city’s HR team since March 21, 2023. His first day will be August 21.
A human resources veteran with more than 23 years of experience, Cole has spent much of his career driving strategic organization-wide initiatives in the public sector, managing and coordinating large teams and departments and leading employee and labor relations efforts. He is an established leader in building and growing high-performing teams, strategic planning and execution, collective bargaining, DE&I work, organizational development and risk management.
Cole most recently served as director of administration and human resources for the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission, where he was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the commission’s HR, safety services and offices services departments.
Prior to joining the commission in May 2003, he worked as a human resources manager for Cuyahoga County, where he was assigned to the Cuyahoga Support Enforcement Agency. Prior to working for Cuyahoga County and the Ohio Turnpike, he worked for the Bellefaire Jewish Community Board as a youth counselor.
Cole holds both a bachelor’s degree in social work with a concentration in criminal justice and a master’s degree in labor relations and human resources from Cleveland State University. He is also certified as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR). He was selected for this role through a competitive internal search committee process.
REMINDER: Happening tonight at 6 p.m.
Your input is needed!
The City of Cleveland is in the first phase of planning the future of parks and recreation and wants to hear from residents. An open house will be held on Wednesday, July 26 at Gunning Park Recreation Center, 16700 Puritas Ave, from 6 to 8 p.m. Stop in at any time during the two hour window to give your input. Bilingual staff on site. A light meal will be served. #cleparksrecplan
MEDIA RELEASE
The new director will drive strategic growth
and lead fundraising endeavors
Cleveland Public Library is pleased to announce Shirley A. Leonard as the new Sr. Director of Development at Cleveland Public Library.
“Cleveland Public Library is thrilled to welcome Shirley A. Leonard to the team,” said Dr. Shenise Johnson-Thomas, Chief of External Relations and Development at Cleveland Public Library. “Shirley’s extensive experience and deep understanding of philanthropy will be invaluable as we strive to enhance and expand our services to meet the evolving needs of our community.”
In this newly created position, Leonard will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies including the creation of a major gifts campaign that will support the Library’s strategic plan.
The investment in building the fundraising capacity for the Cleveland Public Library Foundation was made possible by a generous gift from the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation.
Leonard has proven success in development, nonprofit leadership, and donor relations. Her accomplishments include a case for support for two initiatives worth millions of dollars at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), where she served as Associate Dean of Development and External Relations at the Weatherhead School of Management. Prior to CWRU, she was Senior Director of Development at Cleveland State University for the Monte Ahuja School of Business and Levin School of Urban Affairs, where she was instrumental in helping the University surpass the goal of $100 million in its first comprehensive funding campaign.
“Cleveland Public Library contains a wealth of knowledge and stories, and I look forward to mobilizing resources to empower this storied institution in its efforts to connect with the hearts and minds of Clevelanders for generations to come,” expressed Shirley A. Leonard, Sr. Director of Development at Cleveland Public Library.
The Highland Heights native earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Business Administration from Cleveland State University.
MEDIA RELEASE
Cleveland is the first city in the country seeking damages to recover millions in benefit payouts
Today, the City of Cleveland filed a lawsuit against drug manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) who orchestrated a pricing scheme that resulted in skyrocketing insulin prices and cost the city millions of dollars in prescription benefit payouts. The city is represented by the Law Department, the Cleveland firm of Kelley Ferraro, LLC, and others.
Cleveland is the first city in the country to file a lawsuit of this nature against the defendants.
Cleveland’s Chief Trial Counsel Elena Boop and Chief Assistant Law Director Amy Hough, who represent the city in the case, are honored to work with a team of talented lawyers to hold defendants accountable for skyrocketing insulin prices. This case is also deeply personal to them.
Amy Hough was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in December 1979. From age seven, she was warned about the dangers of not controlling her diabetes – blindness, heart disease, loss of limbs, dangerous pregnancy and a shorter life. She needs access to a steady supply of insulin so she can take the right dosage at the right time to keep diabetes in check. Insulin is not something she, or any other diabetic, can save up for to buy in the future. If she puts off the purchase, she risks her life. Prior to working for the city, Amy had resorted to using high-interest credit cards to buy this life-sustaining medication.
When Elena Boop’s 15-year-old daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, it became clear that her small legal practice was no longer sustainable, due to the out-of-pocket cost of insulin medications. Insulin prices effectively destroyed Elena’s small business. The last seven years have been shaped by constant worrying of how her daughter would be able to afford insulin once she turns 26 and is no longer on the city’s health plan. Her daughter’s career choices and future, including where she lives, have been shaped by insulin costs rather than her dreams and inspirations.
Diabetics need insulin to stay alive. The defendants exploit this reality to guarantee their price-fixing scheme, making insulin unaffordable to individuals and resulting in exorbitant costs for prescription benefit sponsors like the City of Cleveland.
Diabetic medications are among the highest costs under the City’s prescription benefit plan provided to its employees. The lawsuit seeks to recover those costs. It alleges violations of federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), Civil Conspiracy and Unjust Enrichment and seeks to recover compensatory and treble damages, punitive damages, attorneys’ fees, costs and interest.
Four open houses are scheduled for July 26, 27 and 29
SUBMITTED
The Mayor’s Office of Capital Projects (MOCAP) is in the first phase of planning the future of parks and recreation in the city of Cleveland, and wants input from residents. With that, a series of open houses scheduled for July 26, 27 and 29, on both the west and east sides of town, are part of a robust community needs assessment.
The City seeks a diverse range of participation to ensure residents’ voices are heard and translated in the plans.
“This plan will provide a playbook for the City to follow over the coming decade,” said OLIN CEO Lucinda Sanders. “For that playbook to be responsive to the needs of Clevelanders, we are hosting these open houses as one way to hear directly from residents what they would like parks and recreation in the City to look like in the future.”
The open houses are being organized by OLIN, the Philadelphia-based landscape architecture firm selected to guide the planning process, along with local community partners including ThirdSpace Action Lab, Neighborhood Connections, designExplorr, OHM Advisors, and others. Two pop-ups engagements will be held, as well, during Wade Oval Wednesday on July 26 at 5:30pm and at Public Square July 28 at noon.
The first of its kind in the city’s history, this multi-phased planning process will look at the city’s Neighborhood Resource and Recreation Centers (NRRCs), parks, pools, playgrounds and similar spaces across the city as well as the quantity and the quality of programs provided.
The City of Cleveland currently operates 179 unique parks and recreation sites, including 155 city parks, 23 recreation centers, and 1 golf course that total nearly 1,760 acres. These sites include 111 baseball fields, 108 playgrounds, 88 basketball courts, 70 tennis courts, 40 indoor or outdoor swimming pools, and hundreds of other public amenities and programs.
Led by MOCAP, the 15-year master plan will create a roadmap that ensures just and fair capital investment in parks and recreation, provides equitable connections to quality parks and recreation activities while meeting the needs of city residents, community groups, and other stakeholders.
“This is an incredible opportunity to revitalize public spaces in every neighborhood across our city,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “This plan is all about access and equity, removing barriers, building community, and creating places and experiences that enrich peoples’ lives.”
The three-phase planning process is expected to take 18 months to complete. The goal of the first phase is to identify the current and future parks and recreation needs of Clevelanders, community groups, and stakeholders over the next 15 years. The second phase is the creation of a long-range plan that will reconcile existing conditions with the community needs assessment. The third phase entails a strategic plan outlining the best methods to finance and implement the long-range plan.
To learn more about the project visit www.cleparksrecplan.com
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ABOUT THE MAYOR’S OFFICE OF CAPITAL PROJECTS (MOCAP)
The mission of MOCAP is to provide for the planning, designing, construction, and preservation of the City of Cleveland’s facilities and infrastructure through collaborative and comprehensive planning, leadership in management, excellence in sustainable design and technical expertise, and quality construction based on integrity and professionalism. The office oversees the Division of Architecture and Site Development, the division of Engineering and Construction, and The Division of Real Estate.
ABOUT OLIN
OLIN is a nationally and internationally recognized landscape architecture, urban design, and planning studio with more than 40 years of experience in parks and recreation system planning and designing for the public realm. OLIN projects include a 25-year master plan to transform the post-industrial land along Philadelphia’s Delaware River, the campus and gardens at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, the award-winning 11th Street Bridge Park in Washington, D.C., and the parks master plan for Fort Collins. OLIN is also the team behind the Eastman Reading Garden at the Cleveland Public Library and the plaza and greenspace surrounding the Anthony J. Celebrezze Federal Building. More about OLIN and the studio’s work can be found at parks.theolinstudio.com.
Latest investments include marketing plan for police recruitment, carjacking pilot program, & expansion of violent crime reduction efforts
MEDIA RELEASE
As part of his comprehensive effort to combat crime levels in the City and enhance law enforcement, Mayor Justin M. Bibb introduced today an extensive plan for additional investments in public safety. TheRaising Investment in Safety for Everyone (RISE) Initiative is a portfolio of multiple strategic investments, partnerships, enforcement efforts, and technology championed by Mayor Bibb and his administration.
“The level of violence we are seeing in our city requires seismic investments and an all-hands-on-deck approach,” said Mayor Bibb. “We are engaging everyone — police, fire, EMS, building and housing, community relations, residents, nonprofit partners and businesses — to confront this issue. We all have a role in keeping Cleveland safe and everyone must send the message that we will not tolerate violence.”
RISE is focused on investing in police and public safety, leveraging regional partnerships, promoting aggressive enforcement and increased police visibility, and increasing the use of technology to help tackle crime. The initiative’s framework includes foundational support specifically designed to help police do their jobs as efficiently and effectively as possible, recognizing that officers alone cannot solve this complex issue.
Latest Investments
The Department of Public Safety is finalizing a contract with a local marketing consultant, who will develop a robust, comprehensive strategy and campaign for officer recruitment and retention. The department’s current numbers reflect challenges being felt by agencies nationwide experiencing an unforeseen reduction in police safety forces over the last three years.
The Division of Police partnered with Cuyahoga County and launched a pilot program that will focus on addressing carjackings and car thefts across Cleveland. The goal of this Cleveland-centered program is on intervention, where the use of pretrial monitoring will help with a more efficient court response to these types of incidents.
The City expanded several of its violent crime reduction efforts, both internally and through partnerships with other agencies. The City’s Violence Reduction Task Force – which prioritizes crimes of violence, gang activity, drug enforcement and fugitive apprehension – extended their focus to hot spots in the city and shutting down problematic locations and streets in partnership with the departments of Building & Housing, Public Health, and Fire. The City is also actively augmenting several of its law enforcement strategies by working with the U.S. Marshals and FBI on the expansion of warrant sweeps and gun intelligence efforts, the U.S. Attorney to support fast-tracking of city-related gun cases, RTA and CMHA to expand curfew enforcement, and the State Highway Patrol to ramp up traffic enforcement.
Other Investments
Previous investments the city has made under the RISE plan include increased police officer pay, the establishment of a $10 million violence prevention endowment fund, and using $1 million in ARPA funds for a downtown lighting project to enhance safety. Additional investments in police, including recruitment and retention strategies, remain under discussion in the run-up to Cleveland’s first ever Public Safety Summit, which was announced last week. The Summit is scheduled for August 23 with leadership of the city, CPPA, and FOP working together to strategize on how to best support recruitment and retention of the city’s police force.
Earlier this month, the city announced the expanded Safe Smart CLE Camera Program, powered by FUSUS, and began a campaign encouraging business owners, residents, and community partners to register their cameras to be part of the program. Registration takes less than 60 seconds and is done through a private and secure online portal. To date, the program has nearly 2,000 cameras integrated with the City’s Real Time Crime Center. The program has the support of Cleveland State University, RTA, Steelyard Commons, and Cleveland Metropolitan School District, and is also backed by community leaders.
“Cameras tucked into new high-tech streetlights are powerful aids … [that] act as security systems and monitor traffic and parking, solving crimes, [and] silent eyes that more than once have caught overhead images that led to solving crimes,”said Pastors Greg and Teresa McCurry with New Beginning Ministries in the City’s Detroit-Shoreway neighborhood. “This helps combat gun violence, to solving cases, to helping save lives.”
“Since working with our former Commander … our block was able to get a street camera in our street light system and we have not had any guns shooting in years on this street,” added Joyce Hood, Elizabeth Street Club President in the Union-Miles Park neighborhood. “We use[d] to be a high gun shooting area till now.”
Other technology components of the RISE initiative include AI-powered camera monitoring and maintenance, a push to hire five additional crime analysts – one for each police district – to support the work of police and detectives in solving and responding to crimes, and the expansion of ShotSpotter into all five police districts, which is also supported by community members.
“ShotSpotter appears to be doing what the technology is meant to do,” said Dot Martin with the Old Brooklyn Crime Watch group. “If it helps the police officers be more efficient and productive (especially in light of the shortage of officers) then it should continue and ideally be expanded.”
“I support ShotSpotter to help the police,” added Edie Le Bouton, another resident in the Old Brooklyn neighborhood. “I believe this will help citizens all over the county.”
Additionally, RISE calls for the expansion and strengthening of regional partnerships, from working with inner-ring suburban mayors and police chiefs to collaboration with the FBI, U.S. Marshals, State Highway Patrol, faith leaders, business owners, partner organizations like Downtown Cleveland Alliance, and others.
“As mayor, safety is my number one priority and I am deeply grateful to our first responders, to our police union leadership for their engagement, and to the community leaders out in the neighborhoods working to make Cleveland a better place,” added Mayor Bibb. “Everyone deserves to feel safe no matter what neighborhood they live in, which is why we need to unite, stand up, and push back against this violence. That’s what RISE is all about.”
St. Patrick’s Church is the oldest and most well-known landmark in West Park. In 2023, church members are celebrating the 175th anniversary of the parish, a focal point in a neighborhood known for its Irish population. (Photos by Kate Rybak, a photojournalist who joined the staff this week. Please join us in welcoming her.)
A study in contrast. The current home and future home of the Cleveland Public Library Rockport Branch sit side-by-side on West 140th Street near Puritas Avenue, in Ward 16. The library is one of the most-used branches in Cleveland, and is home to the Best Buy Teen Tech Center. The new building, which offers much more space, is expected to open in spring 2024. (Photos by Kate Rybak)
A new building nears completion for the West Park Animal Hospital, 4117 Rocky River Dr. The current building continues to be used until the new one opens later this year. For updates, visit https://www.westparkanimalhospital.com/new-building-update/. (Photo by Kate Rybak)
CONTENT SUBMITTED BY THE OFFICE OF SENATE DEMOCRATIC LEADER NICKIE J. ANTONIO
On May 10th, Senate Joint Resolution 2 was passed by the House and Senate. This bill proposes an amendment to the Ohio Constitution, to appear on the ballot at a special election on August 8, 2023.
Issue 1 would:
This proposed amendment destroys the principle of “One Person, One Vote.” Without a doubt, Issue 1 oppresses the individual rights of all voters.
Don’t be fooled by the drafters’ ruse of falsely titling Issue 1 “elevating the standards to qualify for and to pass any constitutional amendment.” Should Issue 1 pass, the standards would not be “elevated”—instead, they will be utterly eradicated. The current standard for passing constitutional amendments is by a simple majority (50%+1). This standard has been inscribed into the Ohio Constitution since 1912 and has been the way in which our state has voted for the past 111 years. Ohio is still governed as a democracy. By definition, the word “democracy” means “rule by the people”—this means that our government relies on the participation of the people in the political process in order to function properly. However, our democracy would be thwarted by the implementation of Issue 1, insomuch as the approval of Issue 1 would give extremist legislators an almost absolute power to assert their control over Ohioans and the state legislature by passing their own nefarious bills without much penalty while ignoring the demands of voters. Outside groups are bankrolling Issue 1 because if it passes—the not-everyday citizens will be the only ones to be able to bring forward ballot measures.
It’s imperative that Ohioans vote to protect our freedom and are registered to vote by July 10th in order to vote in the August 8th election. It is no surprise, however, that the gerrymandered super-majority has attempted to make it increasingly more difficult to cast a vote in Ohio. In order to vote in person, Ohio law now requires a valid, unexpired photo ID (this includes a driver’s license, state ID card from the BMV, military ID card, or U.S. passport). Voting by mail doesn’t require a photo ID, and you can go to VoteOhio.gov to register for an absentee ballot with your current address.
Protect your rights as Ohio voters. Let’s keep “One Person, One Vote” in Ohio and vote “No” on Issue 1—your vote can and will determine the future of Ohio.
PRESS RELEASE
The Cleveland Department of Public Health (CDPH) Division of Air Quality (DAQ) has issued a health alert due to elevated levels of fine particulate matter caused in major part by wildfires in Canada. The Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA) has also issued an Air Quality Advisory, due to an exceedance of fine particulate levels in the “Very Unhealthy” Air Quality Index (AQI) range.
During periods when the air is “Very Unhealthy” CDPH recommends that individuals with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens:
• Avoid outdoor activities as much as possible.
• Stay inside with the windows closed.
Everyone else:
• Limit outdoor activities especially strenuous outdoor activities.
• Keep outdoor activities as short as possible.
• Re-assign outdoor work to indoor activities except in emergent situations.
Those with heart disease or COPD should pay close attention to symptoms such as chest pain or tightness, a fast heartbeat, feeling more out of breath than usual, or extreme fatigue. Contact your health care provider or system, or if symptoms are severe, call 9-1-1. Check the daily Air Quality Index and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Fire and Smoke Map at www.airnow.gov to view hourly updates, as the condition will change hour to hour.
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. As the local public health agency for the City of Cleveland, 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.
SUBMITTED
Four events starting this Saturday offer sweet treats to beat the heat!
Hot days are perfect for ice cream and residents can enjoy some FREE treats at the Cleveland Division of Fire’s “Ice Cream Social” Open Houses starting this Saturday, June 24th from 11am to 3pm at Cleveland Fire Station 41 located at 3090 East 116th Street next to Luke Easter Park.
“Our Ice Cream Socials are a great chance for the community to meet Cleveland Firefighters in a non-emergency environment,” said Cleveland Fire Chief Anthony Luke. “Children can sit in the fire trucks, tour the stations and enjoy free hamburgers, hot dogs, and some delicious ice cream.”
In addition to elected officials, including an appearance by Mayor Justin M. Bibb, there will be tables featuring Fire Safety Tips and Safety Forces Recruitment information, as well as representatives from City Dogs, Cleveland EMS, Cleveland Water, Cleveland Public Power, Red Cross, and Cleveland Public Library. The events are made possible by a donation from MetroHealth.
The ice cream is generously donated by Pierre’s and Honey Hut. Dates and locations for the rest of the Cleveland Fire Ice Cream Socials are listed below:
· Saturday, July 15th 11 am-3 pm at Fire Station 20, 3765 Pearl Rd.
· Saturday, July 29th 11 am-3 pm at Fire Station 22, 7300 Superior Ave.
· Saturday, August 5, 11 am-3 pm at Fire Station 43, 4525 Rocky River Dr.
About the Cleveland Division of Fire
The Cleveland Division of Fire has served the residents of Cleveland, Ohio for more than 150 Years! The Division’s core values center on the protection of lives, property and the environment through preparedness, prevention, public education and emergency response; we place an emphasis on quality services delivered efficiently, effectively and safely. For more information on the Cleveland Division of Fire, visit online at www.city.cleveland.oh.us or on Facebook/CLEFIREdept, Twitter @clevelandfire.
BY JERRY MASEK
Today is a good day to give major kudos to the hard-working staff of the West Park Kamm’s Neighborhood Development — the community development corporation (CDC) for merchants and residents in Ward 17.
They have been behind-the-scenes of a whirlwind of activity.
Last Thursday, the grand opening of ALDI, was the exclamation point after years of trying to find the right combination of valuable land the size of Public Square. There are now 5 stores on that site.
Saturday, Kamm’s Corners was flowing with goodwill from the annual Hooley. The event has been planned for months.
Sunday, the award-winning weekly Farmers Market began. It continues through October as one of the most popular events of its kind on this side of the Cuyahoga River.
The rest of the summer calendar is filled with events, while behind-the-scenes, staff is working on projects that will stretch into future years.
The CDC’s eight employees and 10 directors enjoy much community suppport. The pace they set, and the direction they provide, continue to keep West Park moving forward.
We thank them.
CONTENT SUBMITTED
June is National Healthy Homes Month led by HUD’s Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes (OLHCHH). The Cleveland Division of Air Quality’s Indoor Air Quality Program along with OLHCHH recognizes June as National Healthy Homes Month. This recognition month provides an opportunity for the public to learn more about housing and its impact on health. The Cleveland Division of Air Quality (CDAQ) wants to remind residents of the Healthy Homes Principles for resident’s homes:
• Keep it Dry
• Keep it Clean
• Keep it Pest Free
• Keep it Contaminant Free • Keep it Safe
• Keep it Maintained • Keep it Comfortable • Keep it Ventilated • Keep it Affordable • Keep it Accessible
There are many City-run programs to help Clevelanders move towards healthier homes and occupants:
Cleveland Division of Air Quality Indoor Air Quality Program
CDAQ can send an indoor air quality specialist to help residents identify issues in their home that may be leading to poor air quality. City of Cleveland residents may call the Air Quality Complaint Hotline to file a complaint if conditions in their unit are leading to poor air quality. Contact: 216-664-7442
Department of Aging Senior Homeowner Assistance Program (SHAP)
SHAP provides grants to Cleveland residents age 60+ or disabled adults who meet income eligibility guidelines and own single or two family homes in need of critical, health, safety and maintenance repairs. Applicants must live in the property in question and be able to show clear title. Proof of address (insurance, utility bill), photo ID, and proof of income are required. Contact: 216.664.2833
Division of Environment Lead Safe Living Program
Lead Safe Living Program can help provide information and resources to residents around lead and lead exposure. Contact: (216) 263-LEAD (5323)
Department of Community Development Lead Hazard Control Program
The Lead Hazard Control (LHC) Grant Program is designed to advance efforts to increase lead-safe affordable housing while eliminating the possibility of childhood lead poisoning in Cleveland. The LHC program provides lead risk assessments, identifies lead–based paint and provides grants to control lead based paint hazards.
Department of Community Development Repair-A-Home (RAH)
This program helps homeowners repair Cleveland homes by offering low-interest loans ranging from 0% to 3%, determined by total household income. These loans are only for code related repairs, mechanical repairs or health and safety repairs. Interested parties should contact the Division of Neighborhood Services for more information. A photo ID, proof of address (copy of mortgage, insurance, etc.), and proof of income are required. Contact: 216-664-2045
Cuyahoga County Department of Development Housing Enhancement Loan Program (HELP) This loan is available to all Cuyahoga County investors as well as owner-occupants and can be used to enhance properties with market values below $250,000. This interest program is not subject to income requirements. Contact: 216-443-7260
A new ALDI store opens on Thursday, June 8, at 14651 Lorain Ave. — the fifth store to open in the new West Park Shopping Center. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at 9 a.m.
Store hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. ALDI asks you to bring your own reusable shopping bags. On June 8, the first 100 customers will receive an eco-bag and gift card, as part of the ALDI Golden Ticket gift card giveaway program. During opening weekend, June 8 through 11, shoppers can also enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win a $500 ALDI gift card. The regular weekly food ad should be posted late June 6 at https://www.aldi.us/en/weekly-specials/our-weekly-ads/
WHAT ALDI OFFICIALS WANT YOU TO KNOW
ALDI is one of the country’s most trusted grocers. More than 1,000 new ALDI stores have opened over the past decade, and customers nationwide have become loyal fans of the fast and affordable shopping experience. The ALDI business model is intentionally different, and ALDI fans across the country rave about the company’s award-winning exclusive brands and weekly lineup of limited-time ALDI Finds.
“Our stores are designed to make grocery shopping smarter, faster and easier, and we’ve been voted the price leader for six years running,” said Corey Stucker, Hinckley regional vice president for ALDI. “We have served this community for more than 26 years and are excited to continue to offer Cleveland residents an affordable way of shopping.”
WHAT SETS ALDI APART
• Low-price leader: The company’s commitment to low prices is unwavering. In fact, the dunnhumby Retailer Preference Index Report has ranked ALDI No. 1 on price for six years running.
• Quality: ALDI is so confident in its products, such as its fresh, organic produce delivered daily, that every item is backed by its Twice as Nice Guarantee. If for any reason a customer is not 100% satisfied with the quality of a product, ALDI will replace the product AND refund it.
• ALDI-exclusive products: ALDI sells mostly exclusive brands made by the best partners. Cleveland shoppers will find food for every taste and lifestyle (gluten-free, plant-based, dairy alternatives, etc.) along with an unbeatable cheese and wine selection. Shoppers will also discover weekly offerings of limited-time ALDI Finds like candles, delicious seasonal food, home goods and more.
• You participate in the savings: Before you enter the store, deposit a quarter to unlock a shopping cart. ALDI doesn’t need to hire employees to corral loose carts, and you get your quarter back when you return the cart. ALDI has never offered single-use plastic bags — a sustainable policy that leads to savings passed on to you.
• Online shopping and curbside pickup: Customers want convenient shopping options, so nearly all ALDI locations offer grocery delivery, and Curbside Grocery Pickup is expanding rapidly nationwide. To place an order, visit https//shop.aldi.us
• Store size: ALDI stores are designed for simplicity and efficiency, packed with the products shoppers love. A typical ALDI store is approximately 12,000 square feet of retail space, making it easier to shop than oversized grocery stores.
(Photo by Jerry Masek)
The Library will commemorate Juneteenth
with engaging programming
CONTENT SUBMITTED
Cleveland Public Library is announcing its upcoming programming in celebration of Juneteenth, a historic day commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Throughout the month of June, the library will host a series of engaging and educational events to honor this significant milestone in American history.
“Cleveland Public Library is dedicated to knowledge, inclusion, and community,” said Ashley Boyd, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Cleveland Public Library. “We are proud to contribute to the recognition and celebration of Juneteenth, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared history and promoting a more inclusive and equitable community. We welcome everyone to participate in our Juneteenth programming.”
FREEDOM FEST: We encourage all families to visit the Cleveland Public Library booth at this lively and vibrant celebration of African American culture on Saturday, June 17 from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. on Mall C in downtown Cleveland.
THE RIGHT TO READ: As part of the Cleveland READS Challenge, Cleveland Public Library and Northwest Neighborhood are hosting a movie and conversation about the fight for every child’s right to read. Join us at the Capitol Theatre on Monday, June 19 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. to watch the film, The Right to Read, which shares the stories of an activist, a teacher, and two families who fight to provide our youngest generation with the most foundational indicator of life-long success: the ability to read.
STRONGER TOGETHER: Join Cleveland Public Library, the Western Reserve Historical Society, and the Jewish Federation of Cleveland for dinner and a community conversation about the past and future of African American-Jewish relations. Stronger Together: Exploring Jewish-African American Activism Relations, Past and Present will be held on Tuesday, June 20 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Western Reserve Historical Society located at 10825 East Blvd. in Cleveland. Registration is required.
The FREE event will feature New York Times best-selling co-authors of the young adult novels I’m Not Dying With You Tonight and Why We Fly, Gilly Segal and Kimberly L. Jones. The Western Reserve Historical Society’s Distinguished Scholar of African American History and Culture, Dr. Regennia N. Williams will moderate the discussion.
Attendees will receive one free copy of I’m Not Dying With You Tonight, Why We Fly, or Through the Lens of Allen E. Cole (while supplies last). Visitors can also immerse themselves in the rich history of the Western Reserve Historical Society and enjoy a ride on the beautiful carousel.
JUNETEENTH PROGRAMS & EVENTS AT CLEVELAND PUBLIC LIBRARY BRANCHES
JUNETEENTH CRAFTS: Celebrate Juneteenth with family fun activities and crafts at three neighborhood branches: Addison, Fleet, and Rice. Visit our online calendar for activity dates and times.
JUNETEENTH FAUX CAMPFIRE STORYTIME: On Thursday, June 8, the Rice Branch will host a family-friendly Storytime for children ages 3-5 from noon – 1:00 p.m. Children will read books and enjoy a campfire-inspired treat.
MUSIC AT MAIN: Djapo Cultural Arts Institute will bring its traditional African drums and dance to the Louis Stokes Wing Auditorium on Saturday, June 10 from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
JUNETEENTH DRUMMING CELEBRATION: Enjoy the sounds of our ancestors with a live performance by African drummer Sogbety Diamonde. The celebration will take place on Friday, June 16 at the Glenville Branch from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
JUNETEENTH WRITING COMPETITION: Learn about the history of Juneteenth, then share your thoughts in our essay contest. Prizes available. The competition will take place at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch on Monday, June 12 from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
BLACK STORYTELLERS: The Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers will provide an interactive and engaging oral history of the Juneteenth holiday on Thursday, June 15 at the Union Branch from 3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
WHAT IS JUNETEENTH? BLACK HISTORY TRIVIA: Visit the Sterling Branch for a group reading of Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free by Alice Faye Duncan. Then, test your knowledge of historic moments in African American history with a fun and educational trivia challenge. The program is on Monday, June 26 from 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
All Juneteenth programming at Cleveland Public Library will be free and open to the public. A detailed schedule of events and registration information can be found on cpl.org.### About the Organization