Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Cuyahoga County / August 20, 2025

🛍️ Mall reborn

Cuyahoga County • August 20, 2025

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Good morning, Cuyahoga County. After years of standing as a monument to retail's past, University Square is finding new life as Bell Tower Center. The transformation is already taking shape with Qdoba and Smoothie King opening this month, while Urban Air Adventure Park will soon bring trampolines and climbing walls to the former Tops grocery space. This redevelopment represents a significant turning point for University Heights, with luxury apartments and renovated parking facilities on the horizon.

In more sobering news, our community faces significant challenges as new federal requirements for Medicaid and SNAP benefits could impact over 60,000 county residents this fall. Meanwhile, Cleveland schools are mourning the tragic loss of educators Donald and Maria Nunney, who died in a North Carolina car accident while taking their son to college. The community has rallied around their four children, with a GoFundMe already raising $128,000 for the family.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏙️ Bell Tower Center brings new life to former University Square. The University Heights redevelopment project is moving forward with Qdoba and Smoothie King set to open by the end of August. Urban Air Adventure Park, featuring trampolines and climbing walls, will begin construction in September in the former Tops grocery space. Mayor Michael Dylan Brennan, who is not seeking a third term, celebrates this progress as part of the comprehensive plan that will eventually include 200 luxury apartments and retail options. The parking garage is being renovated with improved lighting, with demolition work scheduled to be completed by October.

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📋 Federal changes threaten healthcare and food benefits for thousands. Starting this fall, new Medicaid work requirements and SNAP restrictions could impact over 60,000 Cuyahoga County residents who rely on these programs. Officials are hosting an information session on September 8 to help recipients understand the changes, which include semiannual renewals, co-pays, and work requirements of 80 hours per month. County director Kevin Gowan worries these changes will create longer wait times, increased administrative costs, and potentially thousands losing benefits even if they qualify for them.

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💔 Tragedy strikes Cleveland schools as beloved teaching couple dies. Donald and Maria Nunney were killed in a North Carolina car crash while taking their oldest son to college, leaving behind four children. The couple's van went off the road and struck trees, injuring their two younger children who were also in the vehicle. Donald taught English at Joseph M. Gallagher Elementary while Maria served as a counselor at Wilbur Wright PreK-8 School. A GoFundMe for the Nunney children has already raised $128,000 as the community mourns these "incredible teachers" and "loving parents."

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Wooded Paradise Complete Basement Bonus: For just $192,000, this meticulously renovated ranch offers single-floor living with a new kitchen, updated bathrooms, and a finished basement, all nestled on a private wooded lot backing to Crudele Park.
Real estate listing image Classic Cape Near Stadium Deal: This brick Cape Cod at $180,000 offers three bedrooms, a finished lower level with built-in bar, and a private fenced yard—all near the planned Browns stadium and minutes from the airport.
Real estate listing image Spacious ranch generous woodland lot: This $300,000 ranch in Highland Heights offers 3 good-sized bedrooms, hardwood floors throughout, and a full basement with plenty of storage. The property sits on a generous lot spanning almost an acre.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🕵️ Aug. 20 - True Crime Wednesday: Unravel chilling mysteries at True Crime Wednesday on August 20 at Rocky River Public Library. This month, dive into "Devil's Knot: The True Story of the West Memphis Three" through engaging discussion and activities.
🎪 Aug. 21 - Garden Bros Nuclear Circus: Step right up to the Garden Brothers Nuclear Circus at Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds! Experience the world's largest circus under the biggest big top with thrilling shows at 4:30pm and 7:30pm on August 21.
🎪 Aug. 22 - Garden Brothers Nuclear Circus: Step right up to the Garden Brothers Nuclear Circus at Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds! Experience thrilling performances under the big top on Friday, August 22, 2025. Fun for the whole family!
🎪 Aug. 22 - Garden Bros Nuclear Circus: Step right up to the Garden Bros Nuclear Circus at Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds! Experience thrilling performances under the big top on August 22 at 19201 E Bagley Rd, Berea, OH.
🧙‍♂️ Aug. 23 - Magic Card Game Night: Enter the magical realm of fantasy at Cuyahoga Falls Library on August 23! Gather your deck and join fellow wizards for an exciting afternoon of Magic: The Gathering card battles.
🎧 Aug. 23 - Lincoln Park House Festival: Groove to infectious beats at Lincoln Park's House Music Festival on Aug 23! Local DJs spin the best house tracks at this free Tremont pop-up event hosted by APT345 Productions & Tremont West.
🎸 Aug. 23 - Truckfighters Rock Cleveland: Rock out with Swedish stoner rock legends Truckfighters and Restless Spirit at The Foundry Concert Club! Catch all the fuzzy riffs and heavy grooves on August 23 at 7:00 PM in Cleveland.
🌎 Aug. 24 - One World Day 2025: Celebrate diversity at the 79th annual One World Day in Cleveland Cultural Gardens on August 24, 2025! Experience cultures from around the globe through food, performances, and traditions in this beloved community festival.
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