City of Lakewood, Ohio

The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Veterans Committee are planning a major renovation project for the Veterans Memorial at Lakewood Park. The plan includes making the site more accessible for people with disabilities, replacing the concrete pad surrounding the Veterans Monument, adding a brick paver walkway, shifting the memorial area so it faces north instead of south, new landscaping and adding military markers for each branch of the armed services. The Veterans Monument and the cannon will remain in their current location. Matthew McCue, an architect with McCue Design Group, donated his time to create a landscape master plan for the Memorial.

On August 5th, the Lakewood Planning Commission approved the proposal for changes to the Lakewood Veterans Memorial which address accessibility and aesthetics for the site. The Planning Commission decided to incorporate this proposal into the City’s Master Plan and the Lakewood Park Master Plan as it is consistent with our Parks Initiatives. On August 25, 2008, the plan was presented to Lakewood City Council.

The Lakewood Veterans Committee has asked John Kikol to be the Chairman of the Veterans Memorial Renovation Project. Mr. Kikol has organized many regional events and fund raising efforts for the families of our military, police and firefighters.

The Veterans Committee is planning to raise funds for this project and is hopeful they can get many of the supplies and labor donated. A brick paver campaign has already begun that offers people the opportunity to purchase engraved bricks to surround the Veterans Memorial area. Fundraising efforts also allow individuals to donate money for benches and trees.

Donation forms are available at Lakewood City Hall, on the City of Lakewood website at www.onelakewood.com/veteransmemorial.html or by calling (216) 529-6650. Donation checks should be made payable to The Lakewood Foundation-Veterans Memorial and forwarded to The Lakewood Foundation, c/o City of Lakewood Department of Human Services 12650 Detroit Avenue, Lakewood, Ohio 44107.

“My Administration has been meeting on a regular basis with the Lakewood Veterans Committee since the beginning of the year discussing the renovation project for the Veterans Memorial,” stated Mayor Ed FitzGerald. “The Memorial has been in need of repair for some time. Most importantly, it needs to become more accessible for people with disabilities. We are happy to be working with the Veterans Committee to accomplish this goal.”

In addition to the Memorial Renovation, the City is also planning to adopt a National Guard unit to support the men and women who are currently serving our country.

August 22, 2008
LABOR NEGOTIATIONS CONTINUE SUCCESSFULLY
AFSCME ADMINISTRATIVE CHAPTER SIGNS CONTRACT

After over 12 months of negotiations, the Lakewood AFSCME Local 1043 Administrative Chapter has reached an agreement with the City of Lakewood for a two-year contract for the period 2008-2009. This contract calls for a 0% wage increase for 2008 and a 2.5% wage increase in 2009. The contract also requires a phased-in change to their medical insurance plan from 100% coverage to a 90/10 plan. The contract will be presented to Lakewood City Council on Monday, August 25, 2008 at their special council meeting.

“I want to thank the AFSCME Administrative Chapter for working with us to reach an agreement during these difficult times,” stated Mayor Ed FitzGerald. “The willingness of the union to make sacrifices and approve this contract will help avoid future cuts in service and employees.”

Due to the Labor Day holiday, there will be no refuse or recycling collected on Monday, September 1, 2008. 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 Labor Day holiday.

The City of Lakewood and the other West Shore Communities will be offering CERT training to interested residents beginning Monday, September 15, 2008 at 6:30 PM. at the Westlake Service Facility, 741 Bassett Road. The course is approximately 20 hours and will take place on the Monday evenings from September 15 through October 27. The final practical exercise will take place on Saturday, November 1st at 9:00 AM. There is no cost for the training and course materials are provided.

The CERT program teaches skills to prepare residents in the event of an emergency or disaster to help themselves, their families and neighbors if police, fire and EMS cannot respond immediately. CERT training helps people to think clearly and act appropriately when faced with an emergency. Local emergency professionals lead the course.

To participate, you must be 18 years or older, live and/or work in one of the Westshore communities (Lakewood, Bay Village, Fairview Park, North Olmsted, Rocky River and Westlake) and pass a background check. Singles, parents and seniors are all encouraged to participate.

For more information or to register, please call Terri Richards, Lakewood CERT Coordinator, at (216) 529-6657 or Dale Kraus, West Shore CERT Coordinator, at (440) 617-4096.

August 13, 2008
BREAKTHROUGH IN LABOR NEGOTIATIONS
LAKEWOOD PARAMEDICS ASSOCIATION SIGNS CONTRACT

After over 18 months of negotiations, the Lakewood Paramedics Association has reached an agreement with the City of Lakewood for a three-year contract for the period 2007-2009. This contract calls for a 0% wage increase for 2007 & 2008 and a 2.5% wage increase in 2009. The contract also changes their medical insurance plan from a 100% coverage plan to a 90/10 plan. The contract will be presented to Lakewood City Council at their next council meeting.

"I appreciate the willingness of the Paramedics to negotiate this contract and make sacrifices during these difficult times,” stated Mayor Ed FitzGerald. “This is a big step forward for the city beginning to live within its means and will help avoid future cuts in service and employees.”

August 11, 2008
BRIGID’S CROSS BAND CONCERT RESCHEDULED TO AUGUST 17TH

Due to the high winds and rain, the Brigid’s Cross band concert originally scheduled for August 10, 2008 has been rescheduled for Sunday, August 17, 2008. This free concert will begin at 7:00 PM at the Lakewood Park Bandstand, 14532 Lake Avenue.

Brigid’s Cross, featuring band members Paul Baker, Peggy Goonan-Baker and Richie Reece, brings an eclectic collection of music to the stage. From true-to-heritage traditional music to contemporary pieces, Brigid’s Cross is a never-ending show from start to finish. It has been a road of evolution for Brigid’s Cross since their first festival performance at the Riverfront Irish Festival in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, in 1996. Brigid’s Cross has performed at festivals all over America and in Ireland.

August 11, 2008
LAKEWOOD PIT BULL OWNERS MUST REGISTER THEIR DOGS WITH THE CITY BY DECEMBER 6TH

Lakewood City Council recently passed legislation banning pit bulls and canary dogs in the City of Lakewood. Lakewood residents who currently own pit bulls/canary dogs are grandfathered into the law but must register their dogs with the Lakewood Animal Control Office. This registration must be completed by December 6, 2008.

To register a dog, owners must fill out a registration form and pay a $50 registration fee. Pit bull owners must also provide a current photograph of their dog, a copy of an insurance policy of not less than $100,000 and proof that their dog has been micro-chipped and spayed or neutered. Other terms, conditions and restrictions apply to the handling of dangerous animal in Lakewood. A full copy of the law is available on the City of Lakewood website at www.onelakewood.com.

Registration forms are available on the City of Lakewood website at www.onelakewood.com or can be obtained by calling the Lakewood Animal Shelter at (216) 529-5020. Lakewood dog owners who are unsure as to whether they need to register their dogs can contact the Lakewood Animal Shelter at (216) 529-5020 for assistance.

Click here for more information.

August 7, 2008
NEUBERT PAINTING TO PAINT LAKEWOOD HOME AS GIFT TO THE COMMUNITY

On Sunday, August 10, 2008, Neubert Painting will paint the house located at 1530 Wyandotte Avenue for free as gift to the Lakewood Community. A full painting crew will be at the house to get the job done in one day. This will amount to 100 plus hours of work and an approximate $5000 value. Dunn Hardware and Benjamin Moore will graciously be donating the paint for this project. Neubert Painting plans to make this an annual event and once a year paint a Lakewood Home as a means of giving back to the community.

“Neubert Painting is making a generous donation to the community,” stated Mayor Ed FitzGerald. “We applaud this wonderful Lakewood business for donating their time, materials and expertise to the Lakewood community and helping a Lakewood family get their house painted.”

Neubert Painting, located at 12108 Madison Avenue in Lakewood, has been servicing Lakewood and the Cleveland and Akron areas since 1975. They specialize in residential painting and offer services including interior painting, exterior painting, aluminum siding painting, exterior staining, plastering and plaster repair, faux finishes, wallpaper removal and brush free cabinet painting. For more information about their services, contact Neubert Painting at (216) 529-0360.

The City of Lakewood will hold a Community Meeting on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at 6:00 PM in the Lakewood City Hall Auditorium, 12650 Detroit Avenue to discuss RTA’s proposed elimination/reductions in service of the Lakewood Community Circulator #804. Mayor Ed FitzGerald and other city officials are opposed to these changes and want to work with residents to prevent these changes from going forward. Senior apartment buildings, local businesses and community organizations are already showing their support to help save the Lakewood Community Circulator.

All Lakewood residents are encouraged to attend this important meeting and share ideas on ways to stop RTA from eliminating the Lakewood Community Circulator.
This meeting is a planning session to prepare arguments to present to the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) at the Public Hearing they are holding on August 4, 2008 at 6:00 PM the Don Umerley Civic Center, 21016 Hilliard Road in Rocky River.

Petitions opposing the changes to the Lakewood Circulator will be available at the July 29 meeting and will be presented to RTA on August 4.

“We are pleased with the community support we have been shown since announcing this community meeting,” stated Mayor Ed FitzGerald. “Organizations are calling us asking what they can do to help save the Circulator. We intend to present our case to RTA on August 4 emphasizing that the Lakewood Community Circulator is very important to our community.”

July 25, 2008
LAKEWOOD TO HOLD COMMUNITY MEETING ON JULY 29 TO FIGHT RTA CIRCULATOR CHANGES

All Lakewood residents are encouraged to attend this important meeting and share ideas on ways to stop RTA from eliminating the Lakewood Community Circulator.
This meeting is a planning session to prepare arguments to present to the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) at the Public Hearing they are holding on August 4, 2008 at 6:00 PM the Don Umerly Civic Center, 21016 Hilliard Road in Rocky River.

Petitions opposing the changes to the Lakewood Circulator will be available at the July 29 meeting and will be presented to RTA on August 4.

“The Lakewood Community Circulator is one of the most used circulators and has been ranked #1 in ridership by RTA,” stated Mayor Ed FitzGerald. “We have a high senior population that relies on the Circulator as primary transportation. We want to work with residents to communicate to RTA how important the Circulator is to our community.”

July 21, 2008
LAKEWOOD LAUNCHES ENHANCED WEBSITE HOME PAGE

The City of Lakewood’s website www.onelakewood.com has launched a new home page which is more customer-oriented by making navigation easier throughout the site. New features on the home page include quick links to some of the most-frequently requested information, news flashes to recent press releases and a mini-calendar of the most current upcoming events in the city. The site also continues to host more video content. Throughout the rest of the year, the City will be rolling out other new features and visual enhancements including the implementation of drop-down menus for easier movement throughout the entire site.

“Our website redesign is a work in progress,” stated Mayor FitzGerald. “The new home page is the first phase of the project. Over the coming months you will see more enhancements to our site.”

Earlier this year, the City changed the domain name of it official website to www.onelakewood.com. This change has made it easier for visitors to find the site and to remember the web address.

Mayor Ed FitzGerald has appointed Lakewood resident Joseph J. Beno as the Director of Public Works for the City of Lakewood. The Mayor will announce this appointment at the regularly scheduled Lakewood City Council Meeting on Monday, July 7, 2008.

Joe is a Professional Engineer and a life-long resident of the City of Lakewood. Upon graduating from Lakewood High School, Joe attended Case Western Reserve University where he received his Civil Engineering degree. Prior to joining the City, Joe worked for Great Lakes Construction Company. He was a superintendent and engineer for bridge and highway construction.

“Joe Beno is an outstanding professional who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this important position,“ stated Mayor FitzGerald. “As a lifelong Lakewood resident raising a family here, he also has a personal stake in our city services.”

All of the directors Mayor FitzGerald has appointed since he took office are Lakewood residents.

June 26, 2008
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 Ed FitzGerald today announced that Kenneth Warren from the Lakewood Public Library will serve as the Grand Marshall for the City’s Fourth of July parade. The parade is scheduled to step off on Friday, July 4, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. on Lake Avenue at Kenneth Drive and conclude at Lakewood Park.

Kenneth Warren is the Director of Lakewood Public Library. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He began his professional career as Children's Librarian in the Waco-Mclennon County Public Library in Waco, Texas. He served as Assistant Director in Leonia Public Library in Leonia, New Jersey and as Director of Dover Free Public Library in Dover, New Jersey.
In his spare time, he is active in civic journalism and small press literary publishing. He is an advisor to the Lakewood Observer. Since 1993, he has edited House Organ, a quarterly letter of poetry and prose, from his home on Belle Avenue. With Fred Whitehead, he edited and introduced The Whole Song: Selected Poems by Vincent Ferrini for University of Illinois Press.
The Lakewood Public Library officially reopened on June 1, 2008 after a $17.8 million dollar expansion and renovation project. The new facility has nearly doubled the size of the Main Library from 55,000 to 93,000 square feet with room for greatly expanded children's services and computer access, not to mention more books, movies, music, newspapers and magazines.

“We are pleased to honor Ken Warren for all he has given to the Lakewood community” said Mayor FitzGerald. “We are proud to have him serve as Grand Marshall 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 Band. The Lakewood Christian Service Center, the City’s food bank, is requesting that parade attendees bring a canned food item to donate as they will be collecting along the parade route.

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. This year’s fireworks are being sponsored by Ice Land USA-LLC, the new operators of Winterhurst Ice Rink.

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June 23, 2008
RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY SCHEDULED FOR NEWLY REMODELED WESTERLY APARTMENTS

A ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 3:00 PM to unveil the newly remodeled apartments in Westerly II, 14306 Detroit Avenue. Twelve efficiency apartments have been converted into 8 one-bedroom apartments. All of the apartments received new cabinets, appliances, fixtures, flooring and carpet, along with ADA compliant bathrooms and kitchens. These renovations were funded through the Cuyahoga County HOME Program.

In 2005, the City of Lakewood obtained funding from the HOME Program to conduct a pilot program to convert 6 efficiency units into 4 one-bedroom units. The conversion was completed in June 2006 with the remodeled units being updated to ADA guidelines with large bathrooms, step-in showers and fully accessible kitchens. This pilot program was so successful that in 2007 the City of Lakewood applied for, and received, additional HOME Program funding from the County to convert these additional 12 efficiencies into 8 one-bedrooms. This second phase was completed in June 2008.

Westerly II was opened in 1968 with 160 efficiency size apartments for people age 62 years and older. It is part of the Westerly Apartments campus, a 492 unit senior living community that includes the Barton Community Center, conveniently located in downtown Lakewood. Westerly is owned by Lakewood Senior Citizens, Inc., a nonprofit organization begun in 1962 and guided by an 11-member board of trustees comprised of local volunteer business and community leaders. The Westerly complex is managed by LSC Service Corp.

On Thursday, June 19, 2008, Mayor Edward FitzGerald kicked off his Listening To Lakewood (L2L) Program. He will be walking different neighborhoods in the City for a two-week period with members of his Administration and talking with residents to find out what questions and concerns they have about the City. At the end of the two weeks, he will hold a neighborhood meeting where there will be a question and answer session along with a Power Point presentation addressing the challenges our city faces and what City Hall is doing to overcome them.

The first neighborhood the Mayor is walking is McKinley Avenue to Woodward Avenue between Madison Avenue and Lakewood Heights Boulevard. The neighborhood meeting will be held at Harding Middle School, 16601 Madison Avenue, on Thursday, June 26, 2008 at 7:00 PM.

Beginning June 30, the Mayor will be walking Manor Park to Elbur between Merl Avenue and Madison Avenue. The neighborhood meeting will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2008 at 7:00 PM in the Lakewood High School East Gym, 14100 Franklin Boulevard.

“I want to hear what residents have to say about the City and I want to address their concerns,” stated Mayor FitzGerald. “Listening to Lakewood is an opportunity for me to go into a neighborhood and hear what residents are talking about. I will also have the opportunity to update them on the opportunities and challenges facing the city.”

Click here for more information.

The Lakewood Police Department and the Lakewood Recreation Department are offering Basketball Open Gym Sessions for Lakewood children under the age of 18. The sessions will be held on Wednesdays beginning June 18, 2008 and continuing through August 13, 2008 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Garfield Middle School, 13114 Detroit Avenue. These sessions are for Lakewood residents only.

Students must carry a separate pair of gym shoes into the building and will be required to change their shoes before entering the gym. Street shoes will not be permitted. All sessions must maintain sufficient attendance. Sessions not meeting sufficient attendance may be cancelled without notice. These open gym sessions are sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Lakewood.

The idea for open gym sessions came out of a series of meetings with the Lakewood City Schools specifically related to the Youth Safety Initiative. The issue of the removal of some basketball hoops from city parks with no replacement was addressed and the idea was formed. The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood City schools have pledged to work more closely on recreation issues to meet the needs of the community.

For more information, please contact the Lakewood Recreation Department at (216) 529-4081.

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June 13, 2008
CITY ANNOUNCES 2008 SUMMER BAND CONCERT SCHEDULE

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June 12, 2008
COMMUNITY DIVERSITY POTLUCK SET FOR JUNE 26TH

The Lakewood Community Relations Advisory Commission and Lakewood High School’s Race and Diversity (RAD) Club is holding a Community Diversity Potluck on Thursday June 26, 2008 in the Woman's Club Pavilion at Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Avenue. The theme for the potluck is "The World Lives in Lakewood". Set-up begins at 4:30 PM and the event will begin at 5:30 PM. Attendees are asked to bring a dish to serve six that represents your family or cultural tradition(s). Beverages and tableware will be provided. This is a great opportunity to greet neighbors and make new friends. There will be fun activities for all ages.

This event is sponsored by the Lakewood Community Relations Advisory Commission, The City of Lakewood, Lakewood City Schools and Lakewood Hospital.

For more information, please contact Kyle Weigand of the Lakewood Community Advisory Commission at (216) 227-1765 or Nickie Antonio at (216) 221-4421.

The FitzGerald Administration has reached a tentative agreement to lease Winterhurst Ice Rink to a private company. The agreement, which will be presented to Lakewood City Council at a Special Council Meeting on Friday, June 6, 2008, provides for Iceland USA to lease the Winterhurst facility for 5 years.

Iceland USA will invest approximately 1 million dollars in new improvements to the facility. The renovations will include new locker rooms, a new entranceway, new flooring and new boards and glass for the entire facility;
The City will receive a $75,000 lease payment per year and 10% of the net profits from the facility;
Iceland USA will absorb employee costs which will result in approximately 13 less employees on the city’s payroll;
Iceland USA will be responsible for landscaping, snow removal and routine maintenance of the facility;
Iceland USA will sponsor the 2008 Fourth of July fireworks display;
Lakewood residents will continue to receive a resident discount

“We are pleased we have reached a tentative agreement to lease the Winterhurst facility,” stated Mayor Edward FitzGerald. “This agreement will result in a savings to the city of approximately $1 million dollars over the course of the lease. The extensive renovations will also bring the facility up-to-date in a way the City could not afford.”

RENDERINGS OF THE IMPROVEMENTS TO WINTERHURST ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

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June 1, 2008
LAKEWOOD FARMERS MARKET TO OPEN WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4TH

The Lakewood Farmer’s Market opens for its tenth season on Wednesday, June 4, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. in the Kaufmann Park Parking Lot behind Drug Mart, 15412 Detroit Avenue.

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 will operate every Wednesday through October 1, 2008 between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 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.

MAY, 2008

Lakewood Community Progress Incorporated and the City of Lakewood will hold a Walkable Communities Workshop on Monday, June 2, 2008 from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM in the Beach House at Clifton Beach. This workshop will focus on the ½ mile stretch of Clifton Boulevard that bisects Clifton Park. This area has been selected as the site of the first walkability audit. It is virtually the only area in the city that has no built infrastructure for pedestrian activity.

The City of Lakewood was selected to participate in the Walkable Communities Initiative sponsored by the National Center for Bicycling & Walking. The initiative is funded by the National Center for Bicycling & Walking (NCBW) and is presented with the support of Lakewood Community Progress Inc. NCBW's program is to change the way communities are planned, designed and managed to ensure that people of all ages and abilities can walk and bike easily, safely and regularly. The changes needed to make communities more physically active places will be achieved only through sustained action at the local level – in each community – demanded by the public and supported by positive national, state, and local policies and programs.

The workshop will identify the essential elements of a walkable environment. Armed with that information, participants will walk the Clifton Boulevard stretch making notes about existing obstacles and potential enhancements. Attendees will then return to the Beach House for discussion and documentation of ideas/recommendations. Community participation is essential to the success of the workshop and will play a critical role when soliciting funds for proposed changes to the area.

May 29, 2008
HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARDS PRESENTED AT MAY 19, 2008 LAKEWOOD CITY COUNCIL MEETING

The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Heritage Advisory Board presented Historic Preservation Awards to four homeowners and businesses at the Lakewood City Council meeting on Monday, May 19, 2008. The Historic Preservation Awards Program was instituted to honor exemplary projects that have contributed to improving the quality of life in the City of Lakewood through the preservation of our historical architectural resources.

This program recognizes both residential and commercial property owners and publicizes the preservation, rehabilitation, adaptive use and sustained maintenance of historically and architecturally significant properties in Lakewood. The 2008 winners are:

Preservation Award for Sympathetic Addition
Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Beverstock and
Reverend James C. Butler, Pastor of Lakewood Presbyterian Church, 14502 Detroit Avenue

Preservation Award for Commercial Revitalization
Jesse Ewanko, Chartreuse, 17300 Madison Avenue
Matthew Fish, Melt Bar & Grilled, 14718 Detroit Avenue
Messrs. Charles and Gordon Geiger, Geiger’s Clothing and Sports, 14710 Detroit Avenue for their building at 14718 Detroit Avenue.
Thomas A. Barrett, BP Lakewood Investments, 15707 Detroit Avenue for his building at 15701-13 Detroit Avenue.

May 27, 2008
LAKEWOOD FARMERS MARKET TO OPEN WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4TH

The Lakewood Farmer’s Market opens for its tenth season on Wednesday, June 4, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. in the Kaufmann Park Parking Lot behind Drug Mart, 15412 Detroit Avenue.

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 will operate every Wednesday through October 1, 2008 between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 pm.

The City of Lakewood and the Lakewood Early Childhood PTA invite you to attend the 3rd Annual Meet the Trucks on Saturday, June 7, 2008 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Avenue. Come see, touch and explore the City’s fine fleet of trucks and vehicles. Vehicles on display will include an aerial truck, cushman scooter, dump truck, fire truck, ambulance, police car, police motorcycle, SWAT vehicles, ice resurfacer, NASA Bus, Coast Guard “Big Rig” and more. In addition, the Lakewood Early Childhood PTA will offer crafts, face painting, a D.J., bounce houses, a balloon artist and much more. Refreshment will be available.

Quality bike and multi-purpose helmets for $7-10 will be available for purchase while supplies last. Lakewood Hospital will offer an “Ask A Doc” booth and The Cleveland Safe Kids Coalition will be providing car seat safety checks. The Burning River Roller Derby Girls will perform at the skate park and Spin Bike Shop of Lakewood will offer a bike repair station. There will also be tennis and golf clinics and a miniature safety town staffed by the Lakewood Recreation Department.

Attendees are asked to bring a canned good which will be donated to the Lakewood Christian Service Center, the City’s food bank.

The following organizations helped to sponsor this event: The Alpha Group Agency, Lakewood Hospital, Cliff Tower’s Marathon, Home Team Marketing and Judge John P. O’Donnell.

The Joint Veterans Council of Lakewood and Rocky River will hold a Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony on Monday, May 26, 2008 in Rocky River. The Parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. at Rocky River High School and continue west on Detroit Road to Lakewood Park Cemetery. Any veteran or veterans organization wishing to participate in the parade, should call Parade Marshal Richard Healy at (216) 221-3376 by no later than May 22nd.

Weather permitting and as the parade begins, the United States Air Force will be in the skies over northeast Ohio preparing for the first of two aerial flyovers. The aircraft flying in formation are huge fixed wing transport craft known as Hercules C-130’s. These planes will pass over between 10:30 and 10:50 am.

After the parade, a Memorial Day service will take place at Lakewood Park Cemetery to honor our fallen comrades. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at approximately 11:15 am. Lakewood's Mayor Edward FitzGerald and Rocky River's Mayor Pamela Bobst will give opening remarks.

This year’s keynote speaker is North Olmsted Mayor Thomas O’Grady. Mayor O’Grady is a retired U.S. Army Officer and a member of the Disabled American Veterans. He served his country in Europe, Asia, and throughout the United States as a career US Army Officer until his retirement in 1993. He has served as Mayor of North Olmsted since 2005. Prior to becoming Mayor, O’Grady served a member of North Olmsted City Council since 1996 and was President of Council from 2002-2005. Mayor O’Grady is a former teacher of history and government for the North Olmsted City Schools.

Other highlights of this year’s program include a memorial service including the Battlefield Cross and the Presentation of Solemn Tributes, performances by the Rocky River High School Band under the direction of Kirk Taylor and Jimmy Flynn, a patriotic singer and songwriter,and "Echo Taps" performed by Matt Wirfel and Patrick Rajnicek.

On Monday, May 19, 2008, at the regularly scheduled council meeting, Councilman Brian Powers will propose an amendment to ban pit bulls in the City of Lakewood for the health and safety of all residents. Mayor FitzGerald has announced his support of this ban.

The number of complaints regarding pit bulls has risen over the years. In 2007, there were 44 pit bull complaints registered with the City of Lakewood and 31 pit bull dogs were impounded. This year, a man was attacked by a pit bull and bitten in the face.

The amendment will modify section 506.12 of the Lakewood Codified Ordinances to make is illegal to own, keep, possess or harbor a pit bull or canary dog (Perro de PresnaCanario) in the City. Anyone who violates this ordinance will be guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree for a first offense and a misdemeanor of the first degree for each subsequent offense.

“As we know, Lakewood is a densely populated city, with homes, churches, schools and businesses in close proximity, and with a diverse mix of generations, including young children and senior citizens,” stated Councilman Powers. “Dangerous animals such as Pit Bull Dogs pose a significant risk to the health and safety of our most vulnerable citizens. These risks outweigh any competing considerations.”

“I fully support an amendment to ban pit bulls in the City of Lakewood,” stated Mayor FitzGerald. “We must put the health and safety of our residents first.”

Due to the Memorial Day holiday, there will be no refuse or recycling collected on Monday, May 26, 2008. 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.

Residents are reminded that refuse and recycling should not be placed on the curb or tree lawn until after 6:00 p.m. on the night before your collection day and should be available for collection by 6:30 a.m. on the collection day.

In addition, all Lakewood City offices and the Lakewood Municipal Court will be closed for the Memorial Day holiday.

May 6, 2008
LAKEWOOD START–A–HEART COMMITTEE TO OFFER HEARTSAVER AED COURSE

The Lakewood Start-A-Heart Committee is offering the Heartsaver AED Course on Wednesday, May 14, 2008 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Fire Station #1, 14601 Madison Avenue.

The Heartsaver AED Course teaches the basic techniques of adult CPR and how to use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Students also learn about using barrier devices in CPR and giving first aid for choking. The course teaches how to recognize the signs of four major emergencies: heart attack, stroke, cardiac arrest and foreign-body airway obstruction. The scope of this course does not include infant (0-12 months) CPR technique.
The cost for the class is $20.00. It must be paid in advance and is non-refundable. To register, call (216) 227-2481. Books are also available to purchase prior to or at the class for $12 each.

The Lakewood Start-A-Heart Committee was formed in conjunction with the Lakewood Hospital Association to expand the current AED program within the City of Lakewood. In 2005, Lakewood Hospital Association generously contributed $25,000 toward the purchase of additional AEDs, supplies and training. The Start-A-Heart Committee directs the expansion and future implementation of the AED Public Access Program, determines the purchase and placement of the AEDs within the City, the purchase and distribution of supplies for the AED Program and training related to the use and operation of the AEDs. The Committee engages in fundraising efforts to help support the future financial needs of the program.

May 6, 2008
LAKEWOOD TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL EMS WEEK MAY 18 – 24

The City of Lakewood will celebrate Emergency Medical Services Week from May 18-24, 2008 in conjunction with the national celebration. EMS Week celebrates EMS providers who serve their communities to not only save lives, but to educate the public in areas of injury prevention and healthy living. This year’s theme, “Your Life is Our Mission” exemplifies the excellent services provided every day, under any circumstances, by Lakewood emergency medical personnel.
To celebrate EMS Week, paramedics and emergency medical technicians from the Lakewood Fire Department are focusing on the importance of healthy living. During the week, they will distribute literature throughout the community when they respond to emergency calls, and give tips on healthy eating and exercise. Adults will receive handy blood pressure record keepers that can be kept in a purse or wallet, and children will get Junior Paramedic stickers, pencils, EMT plastic helmets, educational activity books, and temporary tattoos.

The City of Lakewood Division of Fire’s annual fire hydrant testing program begins Monday, May 5, 2008. 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 (216) 529-6607 after 9:00 AM on weekdays.

LAKEWOOD ATTACKS CRIME
MAYOR EDWARD FITZGERALD TO ANNOUNCE 2008 LAW ENFORCEMENT INITIATIVE ON APRIL 23RD

Mayor Edward FitzGerald and Police Chief Timothy J. Malley will unveil the 2008 Law Enforcement Initiative on Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at 7:00 PM in the Lakewood City Hall Auditorium, 12650 Detroit Avenue. This plan will detail the steps being taken in 2008 to reduce crime in Lakewood.

The public and media are invited to attend.

Lakewood Mayor Edward FitzGerald will present the 2008 State of the City address on Monday, April 28, 2008 at 7:00 PM at the Garfield Middle School Cafetorium, 13114 Detroit Avenue.

Mayor FitzGerald is serving his first term as Mayor of the City of Lakewood. His State of City Address will focus of the City’s successes and achievements during his first 100 days and the opportunities and challenges in the year 2008 and beyond.

This event is sponsored by the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, LakewoodAlive, Lakewood Community Progress Incorporated, Kiwanis Club of Lakewood and Lakewood/Rocky River Rotary Club

April 9, 2008
H20 SUMMER SERVICE CAMP APPLICATIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE

The Lakewood Department of Human Services-Division of Youth H20 “Help to Others” Summer Service Camp is now accepting applications on for Summer Camp. Applications are available online at www.onelakewood.com/human_youth_main.html. Printed applications are available at the Lakewood Division of Youth, the Lakewood Public Library and the Lakewood Recreation Department. The deadline for entering the lottery-style registration is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 2, 2008.

During the two-week camp session, Lakewood residents entering grades 6-9 spend the morning performing activities at various service sites and the afternoon is spent on game time and team building activities. Trained high school students act as service mentors for the younger participants. These skilled counselors supervise, instruct, motivate and empower their teams of five to six campers through a rich variety of hands on activities and learning experiences.

H2O is a program of the Lakewood Department of Human Services Division of Youth in partnership with 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.

March 28, 2008
SPRING FLING SET FOR APRIL 3rd

The Spring Fling, an intergenerational dance for area seniors and Lakewood High Schools students, will take place on Thursday, April 3, 2008 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Garfield Middle School, 13114 Detroit Avenue. This is an opportunity for residents – young and old – to celebrate spring together.

This year’s Spring Fling will feature musical groups from Lakewood High School, the Lakewood High School Jazz Band & Workshop Band and musical groups from Garfield School. 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) and the Lakewood Kiwanis Club.

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

March 28, 2008
LAKEWOOD DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES TO SPONSOR PARENTING SERIES

The Department of Human Services-Division of Early Childhood will sponsor a free, 8-week parenting series beginning Thursday, April 3, 2008. The series will be held at the Lakewood Family Room, 17400 Northwood Avenue, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. each Thursday through May 22nd. The series will offer parents of children 0 to eight years of age a chance to learn new ways to manage their own stress, problem solve and give positive attention. A light meal and child care will be provided. Call (216) 529-5018 for reservations.

This series is being offered as part of the Greater Cleveland Family Support Consortium which is a collaboration of the Lakewood Department of Human Services/Early Childhood, the Heights Parents Center and the Shaker Family Center. The purpose of the Consortium is to promote and coordinate Family Support initiatives that strengthen and build community.

March 28, 2008
H2O TO HOST GUITAR HERO TOURNAMENT TO FIGHT LEUKEMIA

The City of Lakewood youth service organization, Help to Others (H2O) is sponsoring a Guitar Hero Tournament on Saturday, April 19, 2008 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Lakewood High School, 14100 Franklin Boulevard. This event was originally scheduled for March 8 but was rescheduled due to the weather. All proceeds will benefit the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society. Spectators are asked to donate $1.00 for admission. H2O is selling refreshments at the event.

Lakewood residents in grades 6-12 are eligible to participate. All players will compete using the Guitar Hero II game on a Playstation 2 system. Tournament brackets will be made for 3 levels of play. The entry fee of $6.00 guarantees a minimum of 2 games. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners. Entry forms are available on the City of Lakewood website at www.onelakewood.com/citynews or can be picked up at the Lakewood Division of Youth, 12900 Madison Avenue, Lakewood City Hall, 12650 Detroit Avenue or the Lakewood Community Recreation & Education Department, 1470 Warren Road.

This event is sponsored by the City of Lakewood H20 “Help-to-Others” Youth Volunteer Program with the support from the Lakewood Community Recreation and Education Department.

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

March 7, 2008
LAKEWOOD DECLARES EMERGENCY SNOW PARKING BAN

Lakewood Mayor Edward FitzGerald, serving as the Director of Public Safety, has issued an emergency snow parking ban in the city per Lakewood Codified Ordinance Section 351.26, effective 6:00 PM on Friday, March 7, 2008. Parking is available in City of Lakewood Municipal Parking lots located throughout the city and at Lakewood Park, 14532 Lake Avenue and Madison Park, 13029 Madison Avenue.

Weather reports indicate snow and ice are expected throughout the weekend.

“An Emergency Snow Ban is being issued for the safety of all of our residents,” stated Mayor FitzGerald.

February 28, 2008
H2O TO HOST GUITAR HERO TOURNAMENT TO FIGHT LEUKEMIA

The City of Lakewood youth service organization, Help to Others (H2O) is sponsoring a Guitar Hero Tournament on Saturday, April 19, 2008 (rescheduled) from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Lakewood High School, 14100 Franklin Boulevard. All proceeds will benefit the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society. Spectators are asked to donate $1.00 for admission. H2O is selling refreshments at the event.

Lakewood residents in grades 6-12 are eligible to participate. All players will compete using the Guitar Hero II game on a Playstation 2 system. Tournament brackets will be made for 3 levels of play. The entry fee of $6.00 guarantees a minimum of 2 games. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners.

This event is sponsored by the City of Lakewood H20 “Help-to-Others” Youth Volunteer Program with the support from the Lakewood Community Recreation and Education Department.

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.

February 19, 2008
MAYOR FITZGERALD, COUNCILMEMBER SUMMERS AND FINANCE DIRECTOR PAE AND TO PARTICIPATE IN LAKEWOODALIVE FORUM, MAKING “CENTS” OF LAKEWOOD’S FINANCES

Mayor FitzGerald, Finance Director Pae and Councilmember Summers will participate in the LakewoodAlive forum, Making "Cents" out of Lakewood's Finances.

This two-part forum will begin on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at Harrison Elementary School, 2080 Quail Ave. A panel of experts will discuss details and current challenges of municipal finance. Speakers will also directly address Lakewood’s current financial position, challenges and opportunities.

The follow up forum, to be held on Tuesday, April 3, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at Hayes Elementary School, 16401 Delaware Ave, will focus specifically on Lakewood’s 2008 city budget.

Expert panelists for the February 26 forum include:

Joe Gibbons, a LakewoodAlive founding member, will moderate the forum. The forum is free and advanced registration is not necessary.

LakewoodAlive is a non-partisan citizen group that informs and engages our community about issues that impact economic development and our quality of life. For more information, visit www.lakewoodalive.com

February 4, 2008
HOLIDAY REFUSE & RECYCLING COLLECTION SCHEDULE

Due to the Presidents’ Day holiday, there will be no refuse or recycling collected on Monday, February 18, 2008. 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.

February 4, 2008
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 18, 2008 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 cost.

Advance tickets are on sale at the Winterhurst ticket booth. 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.

The City of Lakewood and other West Shore Communities will be offering CERT training to interested residents beginning Saturday, February 2, 2008. The course is approximately 20 hours and will be held on February 2, February 16, March 1 and March 8 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A final drill exercise will take place on Saturday, March 29th from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The course will take place at the Westlake Service Facility on Bassett Road. There is no cost for the training and course materials are provided.

The CERT program teaches skills so that in the event of an emergency or disaster, residents are prepared to help themselves, their families and neighbors if police, fire and EMS cannot respond immediately. CERT training helps people to think clearly and act appropriately when faced with an emergency. In the event of a disaster or community emergency, preparedness translates into less strain on government and nonprofits that respond and also means that people have the skills to help themselves and possibly save lives until professional responders arrive. CERT members can also support first responders once they are on the scene.

Residents must be 18 years or older and pass a background check. Singles, parents and seniors are all encouraged to participate.

For more information or to register, please call Terri Richards, Lakewood CERT Coordinator, at (216) 529-6657 or Dale Kraus, West Shore CERT Coordinator, at (440) 617-4096.

Winterhurst Ice Rink will hold a special Pizza Skate from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Monday, January 21, 2008 to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. 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/pair.

Advance tickets will be on sale one week in advance at the Winterhurst ticket booth. 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.

Due to the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday, there will be no refuse or recycling collected on Monday, January 21, 2008. 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.

Residents are reminded that refuse and recycling should not be placed on the curb or tree lawn until after 6:00 p.m. on the night before your collection day and should be available for collection by 6:30 a.m. on the collection day.

In addition, all Lakewood City offices and the Lakewood Municipal Court will be closed for the holiday.

Winterhurst Ice Rink, 14740 Lakewood Heights Boulevard, will celebrate National Skating Week with a free public skating session on Wednesday, January 16, 2008 from 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Skate rental is available for $2.00/pair.

In addition to the free skating session, class information and registration will be available for figure skating, speed skating, youth hockey, learn-to-skate and adapted learn-to-skate programs.

Winterhurst 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.

January 2, 2008
MAYOR FITZGERALD INAUGURATION CEREMONY SET FOR JANUARY 5

The swearing-in ceremony for Lakewood Mayor Edward FitzGerald will be held on Saturday, January, 5 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Masonic Temple, 15300 Detroit Avenue. United States Senator Sherrod Brown will officiate the ceremony. The Lakewood High School Choral Choir will be performing. The public is welcome to attend.

Prior to being elected Mayor last fall, FitzGerald served as a Special Agent with the FBI, was a Prosecutor for Cuyahoga County and served as a Lakewood City Councilman from 1999-2007.

In addition to Mayor FitzGerald, new Council Members Tom Bullock and Mike Summers and re-elected Council Members Kevin Butler and Mary Louise Madigan will also be sworn-in during this ceremony.

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MAY, 2008

April 9, 2008 H20 SUMMER SERVICE CAMP APPLICATIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE

March 28, 2008 SPRING FLING SET FOR APRIL 3rd

April 9, 2008
H20 SUMMER SERVICE CAMP APPLICATIONS ARE NOW AVAILABLE

March 28, 2008
SPRING FLING SET FOR APRIL 3rd