News Releases
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
FOR OFFICIAL INFORMATION CONTACT:
City of Lakewood, OH 
Community Relations Office 
(216) 529-6652 or 6650  

September 12, 2006
JENNIFER PAE NAMED FINANCE DIRECTOR

Mayor Thomas J. George has appointed Jennifer Pae as the Director of Finance for the City of Lakewood. Ms. Pae has served as the City’s Assistant Finance Director since February 2006 and has been Acting Finance Director since March.

“Jennifer Pae is an outstanding professional who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the area of municipal finance to this important position. The City of Lakewood Jennifer’s experience and insight into the inner-workings of local government is truly an asset,” stated Mayor George.

Jennifer is a life-long resident of the City of Lakewood. Upon graduating from Lakewood High School, Jennifer attended the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana where she received her undergraduate degree. She worked for non-profit organizations in Ohio City and Tremont prior to starting graduate school at Cleveland State University where she received a Masters of Public Administration with a focus on Economic Development.

Jennifer’s experience in public finance began with a graduate assistantship at Cleveland State that turned into a full-time job as a research assistant. She performed governmental consulting work primarily in the areas of Capital Improvement Planning and Tax Analysis. In 2000, she began a job with the State Auditor’s Office as an assistant auditor in the Performance Audit Division. Jennifer quickly rose to the level of Senior Auditor Manager, where she oversaw numerous state and local government performance audits, which emphasize recommendations for effective and efficient government operations and potential cost savings. Prior to joining the City of Lakewood, she worked briefly at KeyBank as an operations internal auditor.

A search committee comprised of five members of the Lakewood community was established to assist in the search for the best possible candidate for the position of Director of Finance. After an extensive search and a detailed interview process, the committee unanimously recommended Jennifer Pae for the position.

September 7, 2006
LAKEWOOD TO COMMEMORATE FIFTH ANNIVERSARY OF SEPTEMBER 11TH TRAGEDY

Mayor Thomas J. George invites members of the community to join Lakewood officials, firefighters, police officers and employees at Fire Station #1, 14601 Madison Avenue on Monday, September 11, 2006 at 9:30 am for a ceremony to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the September 11th tragedy. The observance will include a public gathering and assembly of fire apparatus, tolling of the bells in observance of the collapse of the World Trade Center South Tower and a moment of silence.

“It is important that we all take time to remember the lives lost in this horrible tragedy,” stated Mayor George. “We want to provide the Lakewood community with the opportunity to join together to observe this somber day.”

August 31, 2006
LAKEWOOD COMMUNITY FESTIVAL SET FOR SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH AT MADISON PARK

The 19th annual Lakewood Community Festival is scheduled for Saturday, September 9, 2006 at Madison Park, 13029 Madison Avenue. The festival celebrates community, cultural heritage and families. It is a day of fun and activities for everyone.

The festival will begin at a fast pace with the 5K “Kielbasa Run” at 9:00 a.m. and the ½ mile Children’s Fun Run at 10:00 a.m. At 11:00 a.m., there will be a Flag Raising Ceremony by various military organizations. Entertainment will include Bald Paul’s Irish Blues Band, The Happy Timers, the Italian Choral Group, the Lakewood Tappers, Silouette School of Dance, Bob and Shelly Orlandi and more.

Craft and game booths, pony rides, children’s games, the NASA Bus, the Euclid Beach Rocket Car, Alpacas from the Starburst Suri Alpaca Ranch, the Lake Erie Nature Center and Nature Tracks will be part of the festivities, as well as a variety of delectable foods including stuffed cabbage, cabbage and noodles, kielbasa and sauerkraut, pizza, French fries and funnel cakes, Vietnamese and Thai cuisine and other dishes. An assortment of traditional ethnic baked goods and other desserts will be available.

The festival, sponsored by the Lakewood Community Festival, Inc. and the City of Lakewood, is traditionally the last event of the summer. Proceeds from the festival will be donated to various local organizations. In the event of rain, the festival will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2006.

For further information, contact the Office of Community Relations at (216) 529-6650.

August 31, 2006
LAKEWOOD FARMERS MARKET LOCATION CHANGE

The Lakewood Farmer’s Market will be moved to the Aruthur Avenue Extension (on Arthur Avenue north of Detroit) for the September 6th and October 4th Markets. The Market will remain in the Masonic Temple Parking Lot, 15300 Detroit Avenue, for the weeks of September 13, September 20 and September 27.

The Farmer’s Market offers locally grown produce along with freshly baked breads and pastries, artisans and craftspeople who help to create a festive market atmosphere for the Lakewood community. The Market operates every Wednesday through October 4th between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 pm.

The Market is operated by the North Union Farmer’s Market in collaboration with the City of Lakewood and features vendors who grow their own produce on small, family-owned farms. Organizers expect up to 15 vendors at each Wednesday’s market.

The North Union Farmer’s Market is a not-for-profit organization incorporated in 1995 dedicated to supporting family farms in northeast Ohio, providing urban people access to fresh, locally grown produce and creating a wholesome family activity that builds community.

August 29, 2006
HOLIDAY REFUSE & RECYCLING COLLECTION SCHEDULE

Due to the Labor Day holiday, there will be no refuse or recycling collected on Monday, September 4, 2006. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Monday will have collection on Tuesday. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday should have their refuse and recyclables available for collection on their regular day, and it will be collected either on that day or the day after. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Friday will have collection on Friday.
In addition, all Lakewood City offices and the Lakewood Municipal Court will be closed for the holiday.

For further information, contact the Lakewood Division of Refuse & Recycling at (216) 252-4322.

August 24, 2006
LAKEWOOD CONTINUES PRECAUTIONS AGAINST WEST NILE VIRUS

As the City of Lakewood Department of Human Services, Division of Health, continues to conduct its aggressive West Nile Virus prevention program, which includes diligent mosquito monitoring, the Ohio Department of Health confirmed two pools of mosquitoes submitted by the Lakewood Division of Health tested positive for West Nile Virus. The mosquitoes were identified as culex, this species primarily bites birds, not humans. Lakewood has no reported human or bird cases at this time.

“The Department of Public Works will continue its aggressive larviciding program and completed a second citywide treatment of catch basins last week,“ said Dottie Buckon, Director of Human Services. “The Division of Health will continue mosquito surveillance, catch basin monitoring and following-up on citizen reports regarding neighborhood mosquito breeding conditions.“ Buckon also reports that the number of mosquitoes trapped is very low throughout the City.

The following suggestions can help reduce the risk of exposure to mosquito borne illnesses:

Eliminate opportunities for mosquitoes to grow:
• Remove containers, tires and children’s toys that may hold standing water.
• Clean rain gutters and downspouts.
• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools and hot tubs. Keep covered when not in use.
• Change water in birdbaths and wading pools at least once a week.
• Provide tight-fitting lids on all containers.
• Properly maintain ornamental ponds and fountains.
• Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property.
• Remind or help neighbors to eliminate breeding sites on their properties.
• Larvicide sewer drains.

“Over-the-counter larvicide products can be purchased at local hardware stores, garden centers and nurseries and should be used according to package directions,” said Dottie Buckon.

Take personal precautions to avoid mosquitoes:
• Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens and repair or replace any damaged screens.
• Avoid going outside at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes bite
• Wear light colored clothing and cover arms and legs when possible.
• Use mosquito repellants wisely.

Residents are directed to call the Lakewood Division of Health to report potential mosquito breeding areas at 216.529.7690 and the Lakewood Animal Shelter at 216.529.5020 to report dead birds.

For more information regarding this release please call Dottie Buckon, Director of Human Services at 216.529.6687.

July 31, 2006
LAKEWOOD HOUSING APPRECIATION VALUES ON THE RISE

The Cuyahoga County Auditor's office recently released housing appreciation values for the last three years. Since 2003, the City of Lakewood enjoyed a substantial 13.1% increase in average home value showing that demand to live within the City’s borders remains extremely high. This news is even more impressive because Lakewood’s appreciation is higher than the majority of other greater Cleveland suburbs including Bay Village, Brecksville, Broadview Heights, Fairview Park, Gates Mills, Independence, Lyndhurst, Mayfield Heights, North Olmsted, North Royalton, Olmsted Falls, Parma, Parma Heights, Seven Hills, Shaker Heights, Solon, South Euclid, Strongsville, Westlake, and a dozen or so others.

“I am not surprised by the high demand for Lakewood homes,” stated Mayor Thomas J. George. “Our city is blessed with committed citizens, vibrant and creative institutions, effective schools and solid city services creating the backbone of Lakewood’s continual growth in home values.”

The County Auditor’s figures represent a critical benchmark for municipalities because they demonstrate the desirability and livability of a community. Lakewood’s high appreciation simply shows that it remains one of the premier communities in Northeast Ohio.

The new figures are the result of legally mandated County Auditor evaluations to determine tax value. Once every six years, by law, the Auditor's appraisers must actually visit all properties in the county to do a visual inspection of the condition of properties countywide. Recent real estate sales are the main source of data for these valuations.

Part of the increase in home values can also be related to the immense amount of new investment occurring in the City since 2004. Lakewood has seen a dramatic increase in investment in all sectors of its economy. New residential investments include Rockport Square, Rosewood Place and the newly announced Cliffs on Rocky River Project. Industrial and commercial projects such as Hinkley Lighting, Vedda Printing, and Advanced Energy Technologies represent large expenditures for each business solidifying their future within the City. Even its community institutions are reinvesting as Lakewood Public Schools, Lakewood Presbyterian Church, Lakewood Public Library and the YMCA are undergoing major expansion, rebuilding or renovation projects. The City has also significantly increased its water, sewer and streets programs growing from $3.1 million in 2003 to over a projected $22 million in 2006.

For more information, contact Thomas Jordan, Director of Planning and Development.

July 28, 2006
PARK TO BE DEDICATED TO LONGTIME LAKEWOOD MAYOR ANTHONY C. SINAGRA ON AUGUST 4TH

Mayor Thomas J. George and members of Lakewood City Council will officially dedicate the park in front of the Lakewood City Center to longtime Lakewood Mayor and Councilman Anthony C. Sinagra on Friday, August 4, 2006 at 4:30 p.m. Sinagra Park is located on Detroit Avenue near Warren Road.

Tony Sinagra served as the Mayor of the City of Lakewood from 1978-1990. He also served as a member of Lakewood City Council from 1973-1977 and was an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney for the City of Lakewood from 1968-1971. From 1991 to 1994, Mr. Sinagra served a member of the Ohio Senate, representing Senate District 23. He has served as president of the Cuyahoga County Mayors and Managers Association, President of the Board of Trustees of Lakewood Hospital, Chairman of the West Shore Council of Governments, member of the Board of Trustees of the Regional Transit Authority and the Citizens League of Greater Cleveland. Mr. Sinagra has over thirty years in government service and the practice of law. He is a counselor and an advocate on issues of public policy, public-private partnerships, economic development, health care and taxation. Mr. Sinagra has received numerous honors for his work including an Outstanding Leadership award from the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Outstanding Alumnus from the Cleveland Marshall School of Law and Outstanding Trustee Award from the Greater Cleveland Hospital Association. As Mayor of Lakewood and President of the Lakewood Hospital Board of Trustees, Mr. Sinagra spearheaded the restructuring of the hospital from a restricted city property to a major non-profit health care center. Anthony C. Sinagra is a graduate of Cleveland-St. Ignatius High School, John Carroll University and Cleveland Marshall Law School of Cleveland State University. Tony and his wife, Lucy, have three children: Laura Sinagra, Chris Sinagra and Gina Cole.

The Sinagra Park Dedication will include remarks by Mayor Thomas J. George, Judge Jeff Hastings, Cuyahoga County Commissioner Jimmy Dimora, Judge Robert Lawther, Kathleen Lawther, Robert Frost, Jack Gustin, Charles Geiger and Pam Gorski. Fred DeGrandis, CEO of Lakewood, Fairview and Lutheran Hospitals, will serve as the Master of Ceremonies. The dedication will also include a tribute from Tony’s children.

“The City of Lakewood is honored to dedicate this park in recognition of Tony Sinagra’s dedication and service to the citizens of Lakewood,” stated Mayor Thomas J. George.

July 26, 2006
LAKEWOOD TAKES PRECAUTIONS AGAINST GYPSY MOTH

The City of Lakewood and the Ohio Department of Agriculture have confirmed that gypsy moths have been identified in Lakewood. The gypsy moth population has only been identified in an isolated area of Clifton Park. Immediately upon suspicion of the existence of gypsy moth, the City of Lakewood contacted the Ohio Department of Agriculture to do an analysis of the gypsy moth situation in Lakewood and inquire about programs aimed at managing the gypsy moth.

The gypsy moth is a non-native, invasive species that has been advancing into Ohio from Pennsylvania and Michigan over the past decade. In its caterpillar stage, it feeds on the leaves of over 300 different tree and shrub species and is especially fond of oak. A healthy tree can usually withstand only two years of defoliation before it is permanently damaged or dies.

The gypsy moth develops in four stages: egg, larvae (caterpillar), pupae (cocoon) and moth and has only one generation per year. The egg stage occurs from approximately August to April. Hatching generally occurs in late April or early May, just as tree leaves are emerging. The newly hatched larvae are 1/8" long, hairy, and mostly dark brown to black. They climb to the tops of the trees and feed on leaves. The larva spins a thread and uses wind currents to balloon from tree to tree. This is the main way gypsy moths disperse.

The larvae are voracious feeders and can reach up to 3" in length. In late June or early July, the larvae finish feeding and find a sheltered place to pupate. The 1/2" to 1" pupa, or resting state, is hairless and dark brown. Pupation takes two weeks and adult moths emerge in July or August. Male moths emerge first and fly in a zigzag pattern during daylight hours. Females do not fly, but can crawl a short distance. Adult moths do not feed.

Residents are asked to monitor their trees for gypsy moth egg masses. Gypsy moth egg masses are tan to brown in color, oval and about half the size of a quarter, and covered with hairs from the female's body. If residents suspect that they may have gypsy moth, they can contact Paul Klembara of the Division of Streets and Forestry at
(216) 529-6813. The Division will confirm the existence of gypsy moths and track location areas for the City’s continuing strategy to manage the situation.

The gypsy moth was brought to the United States in 1869 by a French amateur entomologist looking to develop a new strain of silkworm for silk production. Established populations exist in all or parts of 19 states from Maine to Wisconsin and south to Illinois and generally in a southeasterly line from Illinois to northeastern North Carolina. To date, 44 of Ohio's 88 counties have established gypsy moth populations.
More information about the gypsy moth can be found on the Ohio Department of Agriculture website at www.ohioagriculture.gov/gypsymoth.

July 20, 2006
LAKEWOOD JOINS THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES PARTNERSHIP FOR WORKING TOWARD INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES

On Monday, July 3, 2006, at the regularly scheduled Council Meeting, Mayor George proposed a resolution, which City Council passed, requesting Lakewood’s participation in the National League of Cities Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities.

This partnership unites city leaders who are working to support such issues as racial justice and inclusionary zoning as well as those who celebrate the diversity of race, religions and cultures in order to build communities that are accepting and representative of the difference among its citizens. Increased involvement by a wider representation of citizens in governmental activities will also be a hallmark of these inclusive communities.

“By joining this partnership, the City of Lakewood is not only reaffirming its dedication to its citizens locally, but its commitment to building a nation of inclusion,” said NLC President, James C. Hunt, council member from Clarksburg, West Virginia. “Through this partnership we hope to bring together the collective will of cities in order to build strong, viable communities across the nation.”

Members of the Partnership will:
? Raise awareness and focus attention on the importance and value of inclusive communities;
? Motivate other cities and towns to make a public commitment to building inclusive communities;
? Provide support to local officials in focused efforts around affordable housing, race and ethnic relations, and equal citizen participation in community decision-making;
? Share valuable insights, experiences, and lessons learned among participating cities and towns; and
? Recognize, publicize, and celebrate the work of cities and towns that have joined the Partnership.

“The City of Lakewood is proud to participate in the Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities,” state Mayor Thomas J. George. “An inclusive community promotes equal opportunity, fairness and citizen participation. We look forward to succeeding in our commitment to a more inclusive community.”

The National League of Cities (NLC) is the nation's oldest and largest organization devoted to strengthening and promoting cities as centers of opportunity, leadership and governance. NLC is a resource and advocate for 18,000 U.S. cities, towns and villages, which collectively serve 225 million people.

July 17, 2006
SHAREFEST - THE CARNIVAL THAT CARES - TO BE HELD FRIDAY, JULY 21st

Help to Others (H20) will celebrate the end of the summer with SHAREFEST, a carnival for families with young children, on Friday, July 21, 2006 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. near the Lakewood Park Bandstand. Tickets are $.25 each. SHAREFEST is organized by H20 (Help to Others) Summer Service Camp for middle school students. Proceeds from the event will benefit Lakewood Christian Service Center (LCSC).

In conjunction with Sharefest, the Lakewood Department of Human Services-Division of Early Childhood will be hosting the 11th Annual Lakewood Family Room Ice Cream Social from 6:30 p.m. to dusk. They will be providing free ice cream cones. The Lakewood Family Room offers family resources and support programs including parent education, support groups, parent/child activities, resources and referral, time and stress management and more. The evening will conclude with a Friday Night Flick to begin at dusk.

H2O is a collaborative youth program between the Lakewood Department of Human Services-Division of Youth and the Lakewood City Schools. Under the direction of staff from the Division of Youth, H2O programs are intended to build and strengthen the confidence and resources of Lakewood’s young residents through service projects. The organization is three-tiered, consisting of a High School program, a Middle School program and a Summer Camp program.

For further information contact Celia Dorsch, Department of Human Services-Division of Youth H20 Coordinator, at (216) 529-6870 or Toni Gelsomino, Division of Early Childhood, at (216) 529-5018.

July 17, 2006
H20 ANNUAL CLOTHES 4 KIDS BACK TO SCHOOL SUPER SALE TO BE HELD SATURDAY, JULY 29TH

The 12th annual H20 Clothes 4 Kids super sale will be held Saturday, July 29, 2006 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the East Cafeteria of Lakewood High School, 14100 Franklin Boulevard. The H20 Summer Service Camp has once again organized this citywide collection and resale of clothing to help Lakewood families find affordable back to school clothing. Residents may drop off gently worn infant-adult clothing donations to any Lakewood Fire Station through July 22nd.
Thousands of clothing items, infant through adult sizes, will be available at very reasonable prices. More than 600 families take advantage of this sale each year with proceeds benefiting the H20 Youth Volunteer Program.

H2O is a collaborative youth program between the Lakewood Department of Human Services-Division of Youth and the Lakewood City Schools. Under the direction of staff from the Division of Youth, H2O programs are intended to build and strengthen the confidence and resources of Lakewood’s young residents through service projects. The organization is three-tiered, consisting of a High School program, a Middle School program and a Summer Camp program.

For further information contact Celia Dorsch, Department of Human-Division of Youth H20 Coordinator, at (216) 529-6045.

July 17, 2006
BIRDTOWN HISTORIC DISTRIC PUBLIC MEETING SET FOR JULY 19TH

The Birdtown Historic District in Lakewood, will be considered by the Ohio Historic Site Preservation Advisory Board for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. A public hearing on the nomination will be held on Wednesday, July 19, 2006 at 5:30 p.m. at the Lakewood Public Library, Madison Branch, 13229 Madison Avenue, Lakewood. A representative of the Ohio Historic Preservation Office will be there to discuss the nomination and answer questions.

On December 6, 2004, the George Administration presented an amended ordinance to Lakewood City Council which authorized the Department of Planning and Development to prepared the application to nominate Birdtown to the National Register of Historic Places. The Planning and Development Department spent countless hours classifying and photographing each structure in the Birdtown area as part of the application process.

The National Register was created by Congress in 1966 by the National Historic Preservation Act to identify prehistoric and historic properties of local, state, or national significance worthy of preservation.

Listing in the National Register provides the following benefits:

“We are pleased that the process is continuing to place Birdtown on the National Register of Historic Places,” stated Mayor Thomas J. George. “Birdtown is a wonderful part of Lakewood’s history and we are excited to have it placed on the National Register.”

July 17, 2006
LAKEWOOD FARMERS MARKET TO OPEN WEDNESDAY, JULY 19TH

The Lakewood Farmer’s Market opens for its eighth great season on Wednesday, July 19th at 11:00 a.m. in the Masonic Temple Parking Lot, 15300 Detroit Avenue. The Farmers Market is being relocated to the Masonic Temple Parking lot due to the construction going on in the area. The Masons generously offered the use of their parking lot for the Market this year.

The Farmer’s Market will offer again this year, locally grown produce along with freshly baked breads and pastries, artisans and craftspeople who help to create a festive market atmosphere for the Lakewood community. The Market will operate every Wednesday through October 4th between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 pm.

The Market is operated by the North Union Farmer’s Market in collaboration with the City of Lakewood and features vendors who grow their own produce on small, family-owned farms. Organizers expect up to 15 vendors at each Wednesday’s market.

The North Union Farmer’s Market is a not-for-profit organization incorporated in 1995 dedicated to supporting family farms in northeast Ohio, providing urban people access to fresh, locally grown produce and creating a wholesome family activity that builds community.

July 17, 2006
LAKEWOOD TO OBSERVE CHILDHOOD LEAD POISONING PREVENTION WEEK

Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week will be observed July 17 through July 21, 2006. The majority of Lakewood housing was built before 1978 and contains some lead paint. When lead paint is disturbed by remodeling or natural decline, the dust can be inhaled or injested allowing lead to enter the body. Lead exposure, even in small amounts may cause physical, learning and behavior problems for children. Lead poisoning is a very preventable condition.

The Department of Human Services Division of Health has a program to educate families on making the home lead safe. The “Lakewood Gets the Lead Out” program offers an educational home visit with free lead screenings for children. Free lead screening will be offered during the week at various locations in the city. Lead screening sites open to the public will be on:

Tuesday July 18th
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Division of Health ,12805 Detroit Ave

Wednesday July 19th
1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Foster Pool, Lakewood Park

Wednesday July 19th
5:30 - 7 p.m.
Madison Pool

For further information or to schedule a home visit, call Sue Becker RN of the Lakewood Department of Human Services Division of Health at 529-7690.

June 26, 2006
HOLIDAY REFUSE & RECYCLING COLLECTION SCHEDULE

Due to the Fourth of July holiday, there will be no refuse or recycling collected on Tuesday, July 4, 2006. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Monday will have collection on Monday. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Tuesday will have collection on Wednesday. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Wednesday and Thursday should have their refuse and recyclables available for collection on their regular day, and it will be collected either on that day or the day after. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Friday will have collection on Friday.
In addition, all Lakewood city offices and Lakewood Municipal Court will be closed on July 4th.

For further information contact the Lakewood Division of Refuse & Recycling at (216) 252-4322.

June 26, 2006
LAKEWOOD CELEBRATES THE FOURTH OF JULY
PARADE AT 10:00 A.M., BAND CONCERT AT 7:00 P.M. AND
FIREWORKS IN LAKEWOOD PARK AT DUSK

Lakewood Mayor Thomas J. George today announced that SS Cyril and Methodius School will serve as the Grand Marshalls for the City’s Fourth of July parade. The parade is scheduled to step off on Tuesday, July 4, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. on Lake Avenue at Kenneth Drive and conclude at Lakewood Park.

SS. Cyril & Methodius Catholic School received the US Department of Education, No Child Left Behind - Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence award for 2005. There were only 16 schools in Ohio and less than 300 schools in the nation to receive this award. This is a national honor from the United States Department of Education for achieving high standards of academic excellence and dramatic improvement. The program recognizes schools that have at least 40 percent of their students from disadvantaged backgrounds, are achieving at high levels, and have dramatically improved student performance on standardized assessments.

“The Fourth of July community celebration is a wonderful opportunity to highlight SS Cyril & Methodius School outstanding achievements and hard work,” said Mayor George. “We are honored to have them serve as Grand Marshalls of the Fourth of July Parade.”

Joining in the parade will be musical favorites, the Lakewood High School Ranger Marching Band, St. Edward High School Band the Lochaber Pipe Band and Red Hackle Pipe Bands. Casey Coleman will join City Council President Bob Seelie as they announce the parade participants.

After the parade, festivities will continue in Lakewood Park with games, food, activities and information provided by several of Lakewood’s not-for-profit organizations. At 7:00 p.m., the Lakewood Project, Lakewood High School’s Youth Rock Orchestra, will perform at the Bandstand at Lakewood Park. The Fourth of July festivities will conclude with Lakewood annual fireworks extravaganza at approximately 9:45-10:00 p.m.

For further information contact the Office of Community Relations at (216) 529-6650.

May 25, 2006
MEET THE TRUCKS SET FOR SATURDAY, JUNE 3RD

The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Early Childhood PTA invite you to come see, touch and explore the City’s fine fleet of trucks and vehicles on Saturday, June 3, 2006 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Avenue. Vehicles on the display will include an aerial truck, cushman scooter, dump truck, fire truck, ambulance, police car, an ice resurfacer and more.

In addition to viewing the vehicles, the Lakewood Early Childhood PTA will offer crafts, face painting, a D.J., a bounce house, refreshments and much more. A donation of canned goods is requested to benefit the Lakewood Christian Service Center, the City’s food bank.

May 22, 2006
LAKEWOOD PARK LAKEFRONT PROJECT GRAND OPENING SET FOR MAY 26TH

Mayor Thomas J. George and Lakewood City Council invite you to attend the Grand Opening of the most recent lakefront project at Lakewood Park on Friday, May 26, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. The project is highlighted by a stunning handicap-accessible ramp, with stone walls and brick pavers, which extends from the top of the bluff to the lower Lakefront Promenade. The Lakefront Promenade is a gorgeous brick walkway where visitors can enjoy a lovely view of the lake as well as a wonderful skyline of downtown Cleveland.

The ramp and walkway are part of the larger Lakewood Park Lakefront Development Project, which includes the multi-purpose trail that opened in November of 2005. Future construction phases of the Lakefront Development will include access to a natural beachfront just west of the existing park.

“I am pleased to announce the opening of the walkway to the new promenade along the lakefront,” stated Mayor George. “The completion of this handicap-accessible walkway is another milestone in our Lakewood Park Lakefront Development Project.”

For more information, contact City Engineer Dennis Albrecht at (216) 529-6804.

May 22, 2006
CITY OF LAKEWOOD FORMS HOUSING ADVISORY PANEL

In a continuing effort to act upon the findings of the Grow Lakewood Report, the City of Lakewood today announced the formation of the Lakewood Housing Advisory Panel. The Lakewood Housing Advisory Panel is charged with identifying, assessing, and prioritizing issues to advance a governing agenda regarding housing for the community. Twenty-two citizen leaders with a diverse portfolio of professional and community experiences will generate an action plan to address the ongoing viability of Lakewood’s housing stock.

The Grow Lakewood Report, which was submitted to the Mayor and City Council in July 2005, rated housing as a top priority and indicated that community’s housing stock is the economic lynchpin for Lakewood’s future. The report stated that the economics of living in Lakewood are favorable as long as housing values increase at a rate greater than housing costs. The report indicated that the city must identify creative solutions to ensure a strong residential housing market. Additionally, LakewoodAlive, a citizens’ economic development advocacy group, recently surveyed residents finding that the maintenance of housing stock was an urgent priority.

One of the major products of the panel will be recommendations on how city government and citizenry should organize itself to maintain focus on the key issues it identifies. The group will make suggestions regarding housing standards, residency incentives for public employees, owner occupancy of double houses, filling gaps and redesign of existing housing to address lifestyle shifts and facilitate private investment in shoreline maintenance.

The panel, chaired by Mr. Steve Ott, will work closely with Mr. Edward Favre, on special assignment to the office of Mayor for Grow Lakewood initiatives, to generate a housing action plan. A final report to the City Administration and City Council is expected by the fall with an interim report anticipated by mid-summer.

“The Grow Lakewood Report clearly highlighted the areas that need immediate and long-term response by the community,“ stated Mayor Thomas George. “The Housing Advisory Panel is one of a number of initiatives that are being spirited by the Report and we look forward to the action steps this group identifies. We know that good housing fosters good neighborhoods and our city’s adaptive capacity-as residents, business owners, elected officials, city leaders-will grow with a community-based approach toward policy development. “

Similar citizen task forces are expected to be organized in the near future to address the financial balance and economic development recommendations of the Grow Lakewood Report.

May 15, 2006
NEW DEVELOPMENT PROJECT PROPOSED IN LAKEWOOD
HIGH END CONDOMINIUMS ALONG THE ROCKY RIVER

Mayor Thomas J. George and Foran Montlack Development announced plans for Lakewood’s first new waterfront project in over 40 years at a press conference today. The Cliffs on Rocky River is a residential and marina project which will be located on the former Krumreig Marina site in the Rocky River basin along with two residential parcels on Sloane Avenue. All of the properties are under contract or have already been acquired privately by the developer. There is no eminent domain being utilized for this project.

Foran Montlack Development, LLC has proposed to construct approximately 110,000 square feet with about 46 new units of high-end residential condominiums. The Cliffs project includes three well-designed buildings terraced down into the Rocky River basin providing direct access to the river and scenic views of Lake Erie. Plans also call for an expanded marina on the site. In total, the developer will commit to an overall value in excess of $19 million.

The proposed project will include a $1.75 million dollar city assistance package in the form of a T.I.F. (Tax Increment Financing). However, there will be no tax abatement at this site.

“I am very pleased to announce this exciting, new development project,” stated Mayor George. “As 2006 is already the busiest construction year in Lakewood’s past 50 years, this new project further lends proof that Lakewood is a great place to live, work and invest.”

For more information, contact Planning and Development Director Tom Jordan or Assistant Director Dryck Bennett at (216) 529-6630.

May 8, 2006
LAKEWOOD TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL EMS WEEK MAY 14-20th

Lakewood will celebrate National EMS Week from May 14 through May 20, 2006. EMS Week honors the approximately 750,000 Emergency Medical Services providers nationwide who deliver lifesaving emergency care and the outstanding achievements of Lakewood’s EMS providers.

This year's theme, "EMS: Serving on Health Care's Front Line", recognizes the lifesaving services of the medical "front line", provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We honor the commitment and dedication of not only Lakewood's paramedics and EMTs, but of the 750,000 EMS providers nationwide who serve their communities.

Throughout the month of May, Lakewood paramedics will test all existing AED (automated external defibrillator) units in the City of Lakewood. In addition, several new units purchased through the support of the Cleveland Clinic Health System, Western Region, will be distributed to strategic locations throughout the City. "All citizens should consider becoming certified in CPR and AED use, as these are a key component in the chain of survival for someone who is experiencing sudden cardiac arrest," suggests EMS Supervisor Mike Monahan.

To register for one of the Lakewood Start-A-Heart Committee Heartsaver AED courses, please call 216-227-2481 or visit the City of Lakewood website for a registration form. [pdf]

May 3, 2006
LAKEWOOD MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OPPOSE TEL AMENDMENT

On April 17, 2006, at the regularly scheduled Lakewood City Council meeting, Mayor Thomas J. George introduced a resolution in opposition to the proposed Tax Expenditure Limitation (TEL) Amendment to the Ohio Constitution. City Council overwhelmingly supported this resolution urging voters to reject this amendment.

The TEL Amendment would institute tax and expenditure limitations at the state and local levels of government that could only be overridden by a popular vote. This would reduce the ability of local governments, schools, libraries, counties and other public bodies to provide basic services by capping their ability to absorb rising health care costs, fuel costs and to undertake needed capital improvements. If adopted, this amendment will adversely affect the City of Lakewood, Lakewood City Schools and Lakewood Public Library.

Many organizations and governmental leaders have announced their opposition to TEL including the Cuyahoga County Board of Commissioners, U.S. Senators Michael DeWine and George Voinovich, The Ohio Municipal League, Cuyahoga County Mayors and City Managers Association, State School Superintendents, County Commissioners Association and many others.

“I strongly urge all Lakewood voters to vote against the TEL Amendment in the November general election,” stated Mayor Thomas J. George. “This ill conceived proposal would have a serious effect on Lakewood City Government, Lakewood City Schools, Lakewood Public Library and governmental operations throughout the state.”

May 1, 2006
Photo – Video Opportunity
LAKEWOOD CELEBRATES EARTH DAY IN LAKEWOOD PARK

The City of Lakewood will celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, May 6, 2006 from noon to 4:00 p.m. at Lakewood Park. This fun-filled afternoon will include many games and activities. Plus, participants can visit NASA Environmental Bus and the Metroparks NatureMobile as well as visit with animals brought by the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center, plant a tree seedling and much more.

In 1997, the first Earth Day Celebration was held in Lakewood. The purpose was to showcase the 4th and 5th Grade Environmental Clubs in Lakewood. Each Club prepares an activity or game with an environmental focus. The event has grown over the years to include many non-profit organizations.

This event is sponsored by the City of Lakewood Recycling and Little Prevention Office, the Ohio Division of Recycling and Litter Prevention and Keep Lakewood Beautiful.

For more information contact Gail Higgins of the Recycling & Litter Prevention Office at (216) 529-6170.

April 28, 2006
LAKEWOOD PROMOTES BIKE AND SKATER SAFETY AT SAFETY SATURDAY ON MAY 13TH

The Lakewood Department of Human Services/Division of Health will host Safety Saturday on May 13, 2006 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Lakewood City Hall Garage, located at 12650 Detroit Avenue. This free event will promote bicycle and skateboard safety. Children of all ages and their parents will be able to review bike and skateboard safety tips and purchase quality bike and multi-purpose skateboard helmets for $7-8. Helmet fitting, bike registration, activities and refreshments will be offered. The Cleveland Safe Kids Coalition will be providing car seat safety checks and The EMS Academy will be bringing 9-1-1 simulator. There will be a free bike raffle and Spin Bike Shop of Lakewood will offer a bike repair station.
This event is sponsored by the Lakewood Department of Human Services-Division of Health, the Lakewood Division of Police, Lakewood Hospital, Rainbow Babies & Childrens Hospital, U.H. of Cleveland/SafeKids Cleveland, Ronald McDonald House Charities and Spin Bike Shop.

For further information contact Sue Becker of the Lakewood Division of Health at (216) 529-7694.

NEED MORE INFORMATION ABOUT LAKEWOOD? CALL COMMUNITY RELATIONS AT (216) 529-6650.

April 20, 2006
GROUNDBREAKING FOR ROSEWOOD PLACE

The City of Lakewood is pleased to announce that Lakewood will commence construction of its newest development project at the southeast corner of Rosewood and Detroit Avenue on Friday, April 21, 2006 at 10:00 a.m. Rosewood Place will offer 29,000 square feet of mixed-use space. The 5,880 square feet of retail on the ground floor along with eleven units of living space will combine urban living with a sense of community, blending with existing shops, offices, restaurants and nearby recreational activities. “The Rosewood Place project will increase the tax base and the total tax revenues generated from the project site to both the City and the Lakewood Public Schools” said Mayor Thomas J. George.

Mayor George will preside over the event and will be joined by Council President Robert Seelie and members of Lakewood City Council. Thomas Barrett, managing partner of North Coast Capital Partners will be available after the groundbreaking to provide additional information and answer any questions. One of Northeast Ohio's most recognized and respected construction companies, D-A-S Construction, has been retained for the project.

“Mixed use development is a critical component to attain Lakewood’s competitive edge by providing new housing and retail opportunities,” said George.

April 20, 2006
ANNUAL FIRE HYDRANT TESTING BEGINS MAY 1st

The City of Lakewood Division of Fire’s annual fire hydrant testing program begins Monday, May 1, 2006. Testing will be done on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout the month of May. Annual hydrant flushing is necessary to assure proper hydrant operations during fire emergencies.

The testing may cause temporary discoloration of the water supply and residents should check the color of their water before washing clothes to guard against discoloring fabrics. After a few hours, the sediment will settle and the water should run clear again. While the water may appear unsightly, discoloration is due to the release of built-up mineral deposits present in all water mains.

Residents with questions about the fire hydrant testing may call 529-6607 after 9:00 a.m. on weekdays.

April 10, 2006

With last week’s signing of a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the Lakewood Paramedic Association, more than two years of hard work with the employee unions of the City of Lakewood came to a conclusion. All of the City’s collective bargaining employees are now operating under contracts that have prevented lay-offs, granted modest cost-of-living increases, and, for the first time, provided for employee contributions to the rapidly rising cost of group health coverage.

In early 2004, the City’s budget faced a large structural imbalance and dark fiscal days were forecast. But with the cooperation of the excellent employees of Lakewood and their union leaders, progress has been made that has brightened Lakewood’s future. The City’s employees voluntarily sacrificed any cost of living increase for 2004 and, with the vigorous exercise of their collective bargaining rights through negotiation, fact-finding, and, where necessary, arbitration, they obtained a 3% cost of living increase for 2005, and at least that increase for 2006. Lakewood has reduced its workforce by 30 full time employees resulting in a permanent savings of over $1.5 million. The City still faces tough challenges, particularly in meeting capital and infrastructure needs, but employee contributions to health care costs and meaningful labor relations achievements have been good for Lakewood.

“I want to thank Lakewood City Council and Council President Bob Seelie for the important role Council played in achieving these labor agreements and in their fiscal oversight,” stated Mayor Thomas J. George. “Good city services are important elements in continued success and growth and it is our employees that provide these services. Lakewood is growing and standing out among the inner ring suburbs of Cleveland. We have more than a quarter billion dollars in new construction underway, both in the public sector, with new Lakewood Public Schools and the Lakewood Public Library addition, and in the private sector, with projects like Rockport Square.”

The City’s employee unions are: the International Association of Firefighters; the Fraternal Order of Police; the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees; and the Lakewood Paramedics Association.

April 7, 2006
KEEP LAKEWOOD BEAUTIFUL TO HOLD LEAF HUMUS & PERENNIAL PLANT SALE ON APRIL 22nd

Keep Lakewood Beautiful will hold a Leaf Humus and Perennial Plant sale on Saturday, April 22, 2006 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Old Stone House Parking Lot at Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Avenue. Leaf Humus will be pre-bagged and sold for $2.00/bushel. Several varieties of perennial plants will be available at a price of 3 for $10.00. Hostas and Ferns will be priced individually. Master gardeners will also be on hand to help you choose plants. The rain date for this event will be Saturday, April 29.

Keep Lakewood Beautiful is a non-profit organization. Profits from this sale will be used to purchase trees and plants to beautify public lands in Lakewood and to support education programs. For further information, call (216) 529-6170.

For more information, Gail Higgins in the Recycling & Litter Prevention Office at (216) 529-6170.

April 5, 2006
PROVIDENCE HOUSE HONORS THE CITY OF LAKEWOOD

Natalie Leek-Nelson, President of Providence House, will be presenting a special “Community Promise” award to Mayor Thomas J. George on Monday, April 10 at 11:00 A.M. at Lakewood City Hall. The award is honoring the support of the Lakewood community, who provided $21,469 in donations last year, to the babies and children that Providence House serves.

Providence House is Ohio’s first residential nursery for children newborn through five years who are in crisis. More than 5,000 children have been loved, nurtured and sheltered since the agency opened in 1981.

Nearly 100% of their funding comes from the generous contributions of individuals, companies and organizations within Northeast Ohio. Lakewood is very proud to be a part of the solution.

April 5, 2006
WINTERHURST ICE RINK ANNOUNCES SPECIAL SKATING SCHEDULE FOR EASTER HOLIDAY SEASON

Winterhurst Ice Rink will hold special skating sessions during the Easter holiday season. In addition to the regular public skating sessions, special sessions will be held April 14, 17, 18, 20 and 21 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. On Saturday, April 15th, children and their families will have an opportunity to skate with the Easter Bunny from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Winterhurst. Winterhurst will be closed Sunday, April 16, 2006 for the Easter holiday.

Winterhurst Ice Rink, Northeast Ohio’s premier Ice Skating Facility, is owned and operated by the City of Lakewood. With a double rink configuration, it is one of the largest and most unique year-round municipal skating facilities in the country and has produced such notable skating stars as Timothy Goebel, winner of the Olympic Bronze medal for men’s figure skating. Winterhurst offers public skating, hockey, broomball, speed skating, figure skating, Learn To Skate and Adapted Learn To Skate sessions.

For further information contact Winterhurst Ice Rink at (216) 529-4400.

April 3, 2006
PUBLIC MEETING TO BE HELD ON APRIL 11TH REGARDING PROPOSED TAXATION EXPENDITURE LIMITATION CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

A public meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 11, 2006 at 8:00 p.m. to discuss the new, proposed Taxation Expenditure Limitation (TEL) Constitutional Amendment. The public meeting will be held at the Lakewood Civic Auditorium, 14100 Franklin Boulevard. If adopted, this amendment will adversely affect the City of Lakewood, Lakewood City Schools and Lakewood Public Library.

The Ohio Municipal League, State School Superintendents, County Commissioners Association and others agree that the proposed TEL Amendment, which Ohio voters will decide in November, would have a serious effect on governmental operations throughout the state. Representatives from Lakewood and surrounding communities involved in local government, libraries and schools are invited to learn more about this issue.

The Lakewood community forum is a collaborative effort among the City of Lakewood, The Lakewood City Schools and the Lakewood Public Library, all of which would be affected by this proposal.

April 5, 2006
THE CITY OF LAKEWOOD AND THE LAKEWOOD EARLY CHILDHOOD PROFESSIONAL CONSORTIUM CELEBRATE MONTH OF THE YOUNG CHILD

The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Early Childhood Professional Consortium will celebrate the Month of the Young Child in April to recognize the needs of young children and thank educators and others involved in building better futures for all children. Month of the Young Child is celebrated across the country by hundreds of local organizations working to improve opportunities for all young children.

“Early learning experiences are crucial to the growth and development of young children,” said Mayor George. “Month of the Young Child provides opportunities for all of us to recognize the importance of the early years, and to work together to build better futures for all children.”

The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Early Childhood Professional Consortium has a long history of unique support of our youngest residents birth through age eight. In collaboration they are providing different opportunities in the morning to visit early care education and family support programs throughout the Lakewood community. Please call the City of Lakewood, Department of Human Services/Division of Early Childhood at 216-529-5018 for visitation schedules.
Across the country, young children and their families depend on quality education and care, which help children get a great start, and bring lasting benefits for our society as a whole. Month of the Young Child is a time to recognize the people, programs and policies that are helping to build better futures for all children right here in Lakewood.

The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Early Childhood Professional Consortium represents all licensed early care and education programs, Lakewood Family Child Care providers and the Cities Young Family support service.

For more information, contact Toni Gelsomino at (216) 529-5018.

April 5, 2006
HOLIDAY REFUSE & RECYCLING COLLECTION SCHEDULE

Due to the Good Friday observance, there will be no refuse or recycling collected on Friday, April 14, 2006. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Monday will have collection on Monday of that week. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday should have their refuse and recyclables available for collection on the day before their regular day and it will be collected either on that day or their regular day. Residents whose refuse is normally collected on Friday will have collection on Thursday, April 13, 2006.

In addition, all Lakewood city offices will be closed on April 14th.

For further information contact the Lakewood Division of Refuse & Recycling at (216) 252-4322.

March 29, 2006
CITYWIDE SPRING SPRUCE UP SET FOR APRIL 8TH

Lakewood residents and businesses are encouraged to participate in the City's Spring Spruce Up from 10:00 a.m. to Noon on Saturday, April 8, 2006. Youth groups, PTA groups, neighborhood groups and many other community organizations will be cleaning parks, playgrounds, school and church properties and neighborhood streets.

After the spruce up, all volunteers are invited to celebrate a clean and beautiful Lakewood beginning at Noon at the Woman's Club Pavilion at Lakewood Park. There will be food, games, prizes and much more. Lucky the Ladybug, Ohio's First Lady of Litter Prevention will be there.

To register to participate in the Spring Spruce Up, call the Litter Prevention Office at (216) 529-6170.

For more information, contact Gail Higgins in the Litter Prevention Office at (216) 529-6170.

March 27, 2006
PHOTO-VIDEO OPPORTUNITY
SPRING FLING SET FOR APRIL 6TH

The Spring Fling, an intergenerational dance for area seniors and Lakewood High Schools students, will take place on Thursday, April 6, 2006 at 3:30 p.m. in the West Cafeteria at Lakewood High School, 14100 Franklin Avenue. This is an opportunity for residents – young and old – to celebrate spring together.

This year’s Spring Fling will feature the Lakewood High School Jazz Band & Workshop Band. Refreshments will be served by Lakewood High’s Ranger Student Catering Program.

The event is sponsored by the Lakewood Department of Human Services-Divisions of Aging and Youth (H20 Program), the Key Club, Lakewood High School Jazz Band & Workshop Band, Lakewood Ranger Catering and Lakewood Kiwanis

Tickets are $6.00. All ages are welcome. For reservations call the Lakewood Department of Human Services-Division of Aging at (216) 521-1515.

March 29, 2006
FIRE SAFETY HOUSE TOURS LAKEWOOD APRIL 3-7

The Lakewood Fire Prevention Bureau will bring the Aluminum Cans for Burned Children Fire Safety House to Lakewood public and private schools April 3-April 7, 2006 to promote fire safety.

The Fire Safety House is a mobile classroom featuring child-size rooms with real life hazards like heat and smoke. Approximately 550 third-grade children from 11 schools will practice home exit drills in simulated fire conditions in the 28-foot mobile Fire Safety House which contains a living room, fireplace, kitchen, second floor bedroom/bathroom, porch and balcony. Non-toxic smoke will be part of the life-saving education simulation.

The schedule is as follows:

April 3, 9:30 a.m. Lakewood Catholic Academy
April 3, 1:15 p.m. McKinley Elementary School
April 4, 9:30 a.m. Taft Elementary School
April 4, 1:15 p.m. Lakewood Lutheran School
April 5, 9:30 a.m. Lincoln Elementary School
April 5, 1:15 p.m. Franklin Elementary School
April 6, 9:30 a.m. Harrison Elementary School (at St. Hedwig’s Church)
April 6, 10:45 a.m. SS. Cyril & Methodius School
April 6, 1:15 p.m. Hayes Elementary School (at Faith Lutheran Church)
April 7, 9:30 a.m. Grant Elementary School
April 7, 1:15 p.m. Roosevelt Elementary School

Aluminum Cans for Burned Children provides funding for research, annual therapeutic residential burn camps and other year-round activities that support the physical, psychological and social needs of burned children. All three Lakewood Fire Stations and the Lakewood Recycling Center have a collection site for the Aluminum Cans for Burned Children Program. Residents may drop off empty aluminum cans at Fire Station #1, 14601 Madison Avenue, Fire Station #2, 18124 Detroit Avenue, Fire Station #3, 12567 Clifton Boulevard or the Lakewood Recycling Center, 12920 Berea Road.

For more information contact Fire Inspector Mike Matwijiw of the Lakewood Division of Fire at (216) 529-6660.

Media interested in photographing or filming this event need to contact the principal at the appropriate school for permission.

March 17, 2006
CITY OF LAKEWOOD SIGNS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH CUYAHOGA METROPOLITAN HOUSING AUTHORITY

The City of Lakewood, along with several other inner-ring suburbs, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Authority (CMHA) to ensure that the properties rented under the Housing Choice Voucher Program meet community standards to safeguard neighborhood property values and ensure safe and quality housing for tenants. The Memorandum outlines the procedures to be followed by both CMHA and participating municipalities to help ensure that local municipal housing standards are met by properties participating in the CMHA Program, a “Community Code of Rights”.

Some of the highlights of the agreement include:
• Upon request, CMHA will furnish Lakewood with a current list of all subsidized units.
• Upon receipt of a request to lease a new unit, CMHA will notify Lakewood to ensure that each property is registered with the city as a rental property and so violations on the property can be checked. CMHA will request that serious violations be corrected before the property will be approved for participation in the Program.
• CMHA will strengthen the mandatory education of participants and incorporate other strategies to educate participants on successful program participation. The Owners Orientation will be a mandatory training program for participating landlords.
• CMHA shall develop a counseling program consisting of face-to-face meetings with families to resolve reported problems such as noise complaints or nuisance complaints.
• CMHA’s mandatory Mover’s Session will be revised to include information on how participants can learn to live successfully in new neighborhoods.
• If criminal activity occurs at or near a subsidized rental property, CMHA will be provided with a report containing all pertinent information. CMHA will review these reports to determine what appropriate course of action should be taken. Reports of drug related criminal activity or violent criminal activity from any family member shall be cause to initiate a termination process.

“We are very pleased to have reached this agreement with CMHA,” said Lakewood Mayor Thomas J. George. “As identified in the Grow Lakewood Report, the quality of our city housing is a top priority. Working together we can both achieve our mutual goal of ensuring that participating properties are safe, well maintained and provide a good value for the fair market rents paid.”

March 17, 2006
LOCAL GIRL IMPROVES LAKEWOOD’S TOY LENDING LIBRARY FOR HER GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD PROJECT

Catherine English, a senior at Magnificat High School, recently completed her Girl Scout Gold Award Project at the Lakewood Department of Human Services/Division of Early Childhood Toy Lending Library. Catherine worked on the project from May 2005 to February 2006. During that time, Catherine contributed 60 volunteer hours to the reorganization and expansion of the Toy Lending Library.

Her project required her to enhance a computerized inventory of all current toys in the Library organized by type and categorized by development or age-appropriateness. This involved organizing all current and any new toys waiting to be logged in, cataloguing them and placing them into the computerized inventory. Catherine also inspected each toy for damaged or missing pieces. To expand the use of the Library, Catherine also developed a new flyer highlighting the toys available and emphasizing the benefits of children playing with age-appropriate toys. Catherine also organized a group of family and friends to clean and disinfect every toy in the library.

“We appreciate Catherine’s hard work to improve the Lakewood Toy Lending Library,” stated Mayor Thomas J. George. “The work Catherine did will benefit young families for many years to come.”

Catherine will graduate from Magnificat in June and plans to attend college in the fall. She has been involved in scouting for the last 10 years. In addition to scouting, she is active in music, dance and theater. She is very much involved in community service working at a soup kitchen every other week, participating in an annual Blanket Sunday event, Habitat for Humanity in her sophomore year and the Ohio Reads Program.

The Lakewood Toy Lending Library is a free lending library that provides toys that enrich the growth and development of young children. It is open on Tuesdays between 10:30 AM-11:15 AM or by appointment at The Lakewood Family Room, 17400 Northwood Avenue.

The Girl Scout Gold Award is the highest award that a Girl Scout 14-17 may earn. The Gold Award project is something that fulfills a need within a girl's community (whether local or global), creates change, and hopefully, is something that becomes ongoing. The project encompasses organizational, leadership, and networking skills.

For more information, contact Toni Gelsomino, Program Manager for the Division of Early Childhood, at (216) 529-5018.

March 17, 2006
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES RECOGNIZES LAKEWOOD’S YOUTH PLANNING EFFORTS

The National League of Cities (NLC) has commended the City of Lakewood for its impressive work on behalf of children, youth and families. Lakewood is one of six cities across the nation that is part of the MetLife City-Schools Youth Planning Initiative sponsored by the NLC. City-schools youth planning is a cutting-edge collaborative process in which a broad range of stakeholders come together to establish long-term, community-wide plans and priorities for youth. The City is in the process of creating a comprehensive youth master plan that will support strategic and cost-effective responses to the needs of Lakewood’s young people.
The City of Lakewood is also participating in the NLC’s Cities Supporting Parents of Young Children Initiative. The Cities Supporting Parents of Young Children initiative, sponsored by the Institute for Youth, Education and Families, is designed to assist mayors, city council members, and other municipal officials in creating local systems of support for parents of young children in their communities. By helping cities develop the necessary local infrastructure and providing concrete ideas and tools for action, cities are becoming well positioned to take concrete steps that develop or enhance at least two of the following four major strands of parent support:

• Communications campaigns;
• Initiatives to connect families with early childhood resources;
• Programs to engage and empower parents; and
• Efforts to establish or expand family-friendly workplace policies.

“Working closely with the staff from our Institute for Youth Education and Families, the City’s [Lakewood] team has made great progress in developing efforts to support parents of youth children throughout your community,” said Clifford M. Johnson, Executive Director of the Institute for Youth, Education and Families. “In particular, Lakewood’s family resource center is likely to serve as a model for other cities across the nation.”

“We are honored to have been selected to participate in these wonderful programs sponsored by the National League of Cities,” stated Mayor Thomas J. George. “Special thanks to Human Services Director Dottie Buckon and Early Childhood Program Manager Toni Gelsomino for all of their hard work on these projects. It’s great to see our city’s planning efforts have achieved national recognition.”

March 8, 2006
H2O TO HOST ULTIMATE DODGEBALL ON MARCH 29TH TO BENEFIT THE
LEUKEMIA/LYMPHOMA SOCIETY

The Lakewood Department of Human Services/Division of Youth service organization, Help to Others (H2O), is organizing an Ultimate Dodgeball Tournament to be held at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29, 2006 in the East Gym at Lakewood High School, 14100 Franklin Boulevard. Lakewood High School students will compete against Lakewood High School (LHS) staff members in four games. WMMS DJ’s, Mark “Munch” Bishop and Sean Kelly will be on hand to provide commentary for the games. Spectators are asked to donate $1.00 for admission. All proceeds will benefit The Leukemia/Lymphoma Society. This event is being sponsored by the Department of Human Services-Division of Youth, the LHS Student Council, the LHS AYF and the LHS Key Club.

Prior to the event, LHS students will buy raffle tickets for a chance to play in a game or throw a pie at the school principal. Tickets will be color coded by class. The class that has raised the most money at the time of the event will get to pie the principal. The pie toss will take place toward the end of the dodgeball event.

The Ultimate Dodgeball planning committee is trying to increase awareness among LHS students about leukemia and lymphoma. They are developing a “video assembly” that will be shown in all homerooms. The video will include facts about leukemia & lymphoma, as well as photos and bios of several “honored heroes”, area children who are being treated for blood cancers. Each LHS class will be dedicating their game to their “Star Player” and will send them notes of encouragement and photos from the game.

H2O is a collaborative youth program between the Lakewood Department of Human Services-Division of Youth and the Lakewood City Schools. Under the direction of staff from the Division of Youth, H2O programs are intended to build and strengthen the confidence and resources of Lakewood’s young residents through service projects. The organization is three-tiered, consisting of a High School program, a Middle School program and a Summer Camp program.
For further information contact Celia Dorsch, H2O Coordinator for Lakewood’s Department of Human Services-Division of Youth, at (216) 529-6870.

February 21, 2006
MAYOR GEORGE APPOINTED TO THE ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL
RESOURCES POLICY AND ADVOCACY COMMITTEE OF THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES

Mayor Thomas J. George has been appointed to the Energy, Environment and Natural Resources (EENR) Policy and Advocacy Committee of the National League of Cities (NLC).  The EENR Policy and Advocacy Committee is responsible for developing policy recommendations on issues such as air quality, water quality, energy policy, national wetlands policy, noise control, and solid and hazardous waste management. The EENR Committee will be meeting on March 12, 2006 at the NLC’s Congressional City Conference in Washington D.C. to discuss important energy and environment policy issues.

The seven standing policy and advocacy committees of the NLC provide members the easiest way to take a hand in shaping the National Municipal Policy. The Policy Committees meet in March and December of each year during the two NLC Conferences.   Each committee consists of two bodies:

The National League of Cities is the oldest and largest national organization representing municipal governments throughout the United States. Its mission is to strengthen and promote cities as centers of opportunity, leadership, and governance.
Working in partnership with the 49 state municipal leagues, the National League of Cities serves as a resource to and an advocate for the more than 18,000 cities, villages, and towns it represents. More than 1,600 municipalities are member of the NLC and actively participate as leaders and voting members in the organization.

“I am pleased to serve on the very important committee of the National League of Cities,” stated Mayor George.  “The National League of Cities is an outstanding organization that provides resources and many programs and services to its members.”

February 10, 2006
WINTERHURST TO HOLD HOLIDAY PIZZA SKATE

Winterhurst Ice Rink will hold a special Pizza Skate from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Monday, February 20, 2006 to celebrate Presidents’ Day. Admission is $4.00 for Lakewood residents and $5.00 for non-residents. Price includes the skating session, one slice of pizza and one can of pop. Skate rental is available for an additional $2.00.

Advance tickets will be on sale at the Winterhurst ticket booth beginning February 13, 2006. Pizza and pop is limited to the first 350 people. Coupons and passes will not be honored for this session.

Winterhurst Ice Rink, Northeast Ohio’s Premier Ice Rink, is owned and operated by the City of Lakewood. With a double rink configuration, it is one of the largest and most unique year-round municipal skating facilities in the country. Winterhurst offers public skating, hockey, broomball, speed skating, figure skating, Learn To Skate and Adapted Learn To Skate sessions.

For more information contact Winterhurst Ice Rink at (216) 529-4400.

February 1, 2006
H2O PRESENTS "HOME ALONE" WORKSHOP

Lakewood’s volunteer youth group Help-to-Others ("H2O") will again present HOME ALONE, the award winning safety workshop designed for children who arrive home from school before a parent. Children in grades 3-5 and their parents are encouraged to attend one of the workshops on Wednesday, February 15 and Tuesday, March 14, 2006, from 6:30 to 9:00 P.M. in the West Cafeteria of Lakewood High School.

HOME ALONE teaches children valuable information and skills in the following areas:

• How to answer the telephone and door safely. Instructions on how to handle an unexpected delivery person, salesmen, repairmen, prank calls, and how and when to make a 911 call.

• General house concerns. Basic instructions on the overflowing toilet, broken glass, what to do during storms or power failures.

• Handling conflicts with brothers, sisters and friends.

• Fire Safety and First Aid.

While the children rotate in small groups through the learning stations designed by H20 Lakewood High students, parents have an opportunity to hear from experts from the Divisions of Police and Fire/EMS, Division of Early Childhood, Division of Youth and Lakewood Public Library on home and child safety issues.

Students must be in grades 3-5 and accompanied by at least one parent to participate. Pre-registration is required for these workshops. To register for HOME ALONE, please contact the Lakewood Division of Youth at 529-6870. A $10.00 family fee is required with registration. Childcare will be available.

H2O is a collaborative youth program between the Lakewood Department of Human Services-Division of Youth and the Lakewood City Schools. Under the direction of staff from the Division of Youth, H2O programs are intended to build and strengthen the confidence and resources of Lakewood’s young residents through service projects. The organization is three-tiered, consisting of a High School program, a Middle School program and a Summer Camp program.

For further information contact Ceil Dorsch, H20 Coordinator, at 529-6045.

February 1, 2006
LAKEWOOD MEMORABILIA DAY TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH

The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Historical Society will host Lakewood Memorabilia Day on Saturday, February 25, 2006 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the City Hall Auditorium, 12650 Detroit Avenue. Lakewood organizations and community members will display their Lakewood memorabilia and artifacts.

The Lakewood Historical Society will be bringing a few items from their collection, including some Civil War letters. There will also be representatives from city departments, churches, businesses and other organizations on hand to show and explain their Lakewood Memorabilia.

Anyone interested bringing items to Lakewood Memorabilia Day can pick up an entry form at Lakewood City Hall or call (216) 221-7343 or (216) 529-6650. Entry forms must be received by Friday, February 17, 2006.

February 1, 2006
MAYOR GEORGE ELECTED TO EXECUTIVE BOARD OF NORTHEAST OHIO MAYORS AND MANAGERS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Mayor Thomas J. George has recently been elected to the Executive Board of the Northeast Ohio Mayors and Managers Association Board of Trustees. Mayor George represents Cuyahoga County on this Executive Board.

The board consists of mayors and city managers from Northeast Ohio counties including Ashtabula, Geauga, Cuyahoga, Lake, Lorain, Medina and Summit. The President of the organization this year is Mayor William A. Currin from Hudson in Summit County. The Northeast Ohio Mayors and Managers Association is particularly involved in regional partnerships involving municipalities throughout northeast Ohio.

The organization will hold an event titled “Economic Development Summit-Life in the Age of the CAT Tax” on February 21,2006 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Independence Embassy Suites Conference Center. Speakers include Mark Engle, partner at Bricker and Eckler and Dr. Ned Hill of Cleveland State University.

 City of Lakewood