Cuyahoga County • April 24, 2025
Good morning, Cuyahoga County. From the ashes of industrial decline rises a phoenix of opportunity. Cleveland's ambitious transformation of 1,000 acres of brownfields through the Site Readiness for Good Jobs Fund isn't just about cleaning up the past—it's about crafting a future with 25,000 new jobs and innovative housing solutions. This $50 million initiative represents a remarkable second act for a city that once powered America's manufacturing might before the economic curtain fell in the 1950s.
Meanwhile, the 1920s roar back to life through the scandalous tale of Velma West, Cleveland's notorious "Modern Murderess" whose hammer murder case captivated the city with speculation about her motives. In more contemporary drama, Mayor Justin Bibb's final State of the City address declared a new "Cleveland Era" while candidly addressing challenges—including a sobering 50-50 assessment of the Browns' future in the city, though he promises lakefront development will proceed regardless of which way the football bounces.
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🏭 Cleveland's industrial past fuels a job-creation renaissance. The city, once an economic powerhouse before declining in the 1950s, is now transforming 1,000 acres of neglected brownfields into job sites through the Site Readiness for Good Jobs Fund (SRF). Launched in 2023 with $50 million in funding, the initiative has already secured 200 acres for development and begun cleanup efforts on significant properties. The program aims to create 25,000 jobs while addressing housing needs through a modular home manufacturing facility that will employ neighborhood residents. By recycling every dollar through future projects, SRF is positioning Cleveland to compete nationally in manufacturing, medical supply chains, and food production.
🔨 Flapper-turned-killer Velma West shocked 1920s Cleveland with a hammer murder. She bludgeoned her husband Eddie to death in their Lake County home, becoming a media sensation during her trial. Newspapers speculated about her motives, including possible abuse, insanity, or even an affair with a woman. Despite receiving a life sentence, the rebellious "Modern Murderess" later escaped from prison for one final adventure. The case is featured in the latest episode of the "Dark Side of the Land: Wicked Women" podcast.
🏙️ Cleveland's mayor declares "Cleveland Era" in final State of the City address. Mayor Justin Bibb highlighted federal funding challenges under the Trump administration, noting that "Washington is not coming to save us." He rated the Browns' chances of staying in Cleveland at 50-50, while promising lakefront development regardless of the team's decision. Bibb touted safety improvements, including a 46% drop in homicides since taking office in 2022, but expressed frustration with the Department of Justice consent decree process. Looking toward a second term, Bibb outlined his vision for making Cleveland a primary destination rather than a second choice to larger cities.
Brunswick's bats came alive in a 12-2 rout of struggling Shaker Heights, pushing the Blue Devils to 3-5 on the season while sending the Red Raiders to their eighth loss. The teams get to do it all over again Wednesday, though Shaker Heights might want to rethink their game plan after Tuesday's shellacking.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
St. Edward (4-8) | ||
@ North | W 7-4 | |
Cleveland Heights (1-6) | ||
@ Medina | L 11-1 | |
Shaker Heights (2-8) | ||
vs Brunswick | L 12-2 | |
Garfield Heights (3-5) | ||
@ Warrensville Heights | W 13-11 | |
Maple Heights (5-2) | ||
vs Bedford | W 15-8 | |
Euclid (3-9) | ||
@ Strongsville | L 11-0 | |
Bay (4-4) | ||
vs North Olmsted | W 9-7 | |
Rocky River (7-2-1) | ||
@ Princeton** | W 7-3 | |
Fairview (4-3) | ||
@ Lutheran West | L 10-5 | |
Westlake (5-4) | ||
@ Buckeye | L 3-2 | |
Brecksville-Broadview Heights (4-4) | ||
vs North Royalton | W 4-3 | |
Strongsville (11-3) | ||
vs Euclid | W 11-0 | |
North Royalton (5-5) | ||
@ BBHHS | L 4-3 | |
Cuyahoga Heights (5-4) | ||
@ Independence | L 14-1 | |
Gilmour Academy (8-0) | ||
vs South | W 4-3 | |
Beachwood (3-6) | ||
vs Hawken | L 13-0 | |
Mayfield (4-8) | ||
vs Lake Catholic | L 6-4 | |
Solon (2-5) | ||
@ Nordonia | W 3-0 |
North Olmsted Eagles soared past Valley Forge Patriots 12-9 in Tuesday's slugfest, improving to 4-7 while leaving the Patriots still searching for their first win at 0-10. The Bears of North Royalton squeezed past Solon with a nail-biting 1-0 shutout, continuing their impressive season at 10-2. Meanwhile, Buckeye's bats were blazing in a 12-2 rout over Normandy, while Brecksville-Broadview Heights buzzed past Stow-Munroe Falls 14-4, improving the Bees' honey-sweet record to 8-1.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Shaker Heights (7-3) | ||
vs Medina | L 12-0 | |
Euclid (4-11) | ||
@ Bedford | W 16-15 | |
Valley Forge (0-10) | ||
vs North Olmsted | L 12-9 | |
Normandy (2-5) | ||
@ Buckeye | L 12-2 | |
North Royalton (10-2) | ||
@ Solon | W 1-0 | |
Brecksville-Broadview Heights (8-1) | ||
vs Stow-Munroe Falls | W 14-4 | |
Cuyahoga Heights (4-4) | ||
vs Lutheran West | W 10-0 | |
Beachwood (1-5) | ||
vs Orange | L 22-20 | |
Gilmour Academy (6-2) | ||
@ Riverside | L 6-2 | |
Solon (4-8) | ||
vs North Royalton | L 1-0 |
Renovated Parma home worth investigating: Priced at $284,900, this renovated Parma bi-level offers three bedrooms, open-concept living, and comprehensive updates including a new roof, windows, HVAC, and remodeled kitchen and bathrooms.
Renovated home with outdoor havens: This charming 3-bed, 2-bath Maple Heights home is listed at $193,000, featuring a renovated kitchen with white granite countertops, a cozy front porch, spacious backyard deck, and fully finished basement.
Modern Suite Amazing Amenities: Priced at $199,900, this updated 2-bedroom suite boasts French Oak hardwood floors, a cozy fireplace, private balcony, and underground parking, with amenities like pools, exercise rooms, and on-site dining.
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