Good morning, Cuyahoga County. At its peak, 59,000 units a day — that's how fast Ohioans were reaching for "Feel Free" kratom drinks before the state pulled the plug. Northeast Ohio doctors aren't mourning the ban, and after reading their warnings about addiction, it's hard to argue with them. Closer to home, a planned Strongsville political rally was called off over safety concerns, a reminder that local events can carry more heat than the summer forecast.
On a quieter but important front, Cuyahoga County's kindergarten vaccination rates are slipping behind state averages — worth knowing as fall enrollment ramps up. Financial Friday is inside with a smart tip on bi-weekly payments that could save you real money on a mortgage or car loan, and fresh local real estate listings are waiting if you're browsing.
🌤 Sky Skoop
Cleveland
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Parma
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Lakewood
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Euclid
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Cleveland Heights
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Strongsville
67°88°
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North Olmsted
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Garfield Heights
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Westlake
66°87°
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Shaker Heights
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Maple Heights
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North Royalton
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Rocky River
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Solon
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Middleburg Heights
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
Strongsville GOP cancels rally featuring Rep. Max Miller due to threats
🗳️ Organizers in Strongsville called off an upcoming rally with Rep. Max Miller after citing an “unacceptable safety risk” tied to threats. It’s a sharp reminder that local political events can quickly get tense, especially when emotions are already running high. Read more
Before ban, kratom drinks flew off Cuyahoga gas station shelves
🍵 A kratom drink craze hit Ohio — now it's banned. The makers of "Feel Free" kratom drinks say they were selling 59,000 units daily in Ohio before the ban took effect. Northeast Ohio doctors are raising alarms, warning that the drinks are addictive. Read more
Schools prepare for fall as Cuyahoga County kindergarten vaccination rates trail state average
💉 Cuyahoga County kids are falling behind on required vaccines. Despite a recent executive order from President Trump, Ohio law still mandates vaccinations against 10 diseases for kindergartners through 12th graders. Cuyahoga County's kindergarten vaccination rates are trailing the state average as schools prepare for the upcoming fall semester. Read more
This charming 1920 Euclid Cape Cod on Miller Ave features a welcoming covered front porch, solid bones, and a spacious backyard — a true fixer-upper gem ready for your personal touch!
This charming Maple Heights Cape Cod brings classic mid-century character with a smart layout, full basement, and all the big-ticket mechanicals already sorted — perfect for anyone ready to settle into a welcoming community!
2 bed · 2 bath · 2,643 sqft · Brick fireplaces · Corner lot ranch
This charming Euclid ranch on a spacious corner lot delivers cozy character with TWO brick fireplaces, an oversized soaking tub, and a backyard perfect for entertaining — all wrapped in classic neighborhood charm!
🌎 What Else Is Brewing
Trump administration ramps up tariffs on drone imports and keeps pushing its anti-trade, pro-industry agenda like a bull in a policy shop.
U.S. government paid its highest rate on 30-year Treasury bonds since 2001, a pricey reminder that borrowing costs still bite.
Fitch Ratings kept the United States at **AA+**, citing economic resilience even as fiscal risks keep tapping the scoreboard.
Kennedy Center board voted to inscribe Trump's name on the building, adding a fresh round of culture-war theater in Washington.
Reuters reported that U.S. officials couldn't verify Israeli warnings about an alleged Iranian plot against Trump, despite repeated alerts.
AP News reported a string of major U.S. developments, including a judge tossing the Nevada fake-electors case and a deadly triple-execution day.
💰 Financial Friday
Considering implementing a bi-weekly payment plan for large purchases, such as mortgages or car loans, can help pay off the principal amount faster and reduce the total interest paid over the life of the loan. This strategy can be especially effective for those with fixed income and a set budget, allowing for more consistent and efficient debt repayment.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed."
— Proverbs 16:3
This verse reminds us to seek God's guidance in all we do, trusting that He will help our plans come to fruition. By committing our ways to Him, we can have confidence that we're on the right path.
📣 Refer 5 people and get a cookie... no really!
Share Local Brew with 5 friends and earn a free MadBatter Cookie. Big cookies, mad flavors, made in Ohio. 🍪
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