New Hotel Investment in Elyria

Mayor Holly Brinda joined Raj Chandat and company on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 for the groundbreaking of a new Courtyard by Marriott Hotel slated to begin construction in early 2016 for a completion date prior to the Republican National Convention.   The hotel, to be built between Mr. Chandat’s existing Hampton Inn and Atlas Cinemas, will be the newest addition to what promises to be several new businesses and improvements to the Midway Mall area corridor. 

The $22 million reconfiguration of State Route 57 and the 49^th Street Bridge area will be complete in the spring of 2016.  Removal of the bridge, widening of the highway, and the flattening of the intersection is eliminating a high crash zone, improving access to the Midway Mall area, and opening up about 140 acres of undeveloped property – which the City will begin marketing in the spring of 2016.  

Mayor Brinda Takes Oath for Second Term

Mayor Holly C. Brinda was sworn in for her second term at noon on Monday, December 28, 2015.  Her family members joined her to show support and celebrate this historic occasion.   Mayor Brinda is the City of Elyria's second female mayor and the first female mayor ever re-elected to a second term. Joining her are her mother, Gloria Currier, her sister Dawn Emerson, her children, Matthew, Nicholas, Marielle, and Rachel and family-friend Laura Russell.

Spotlight Elyria: Holiday Lights 2015

The City of Elyria held the Annual Holiday Lights Festival in Downtown Elyria on Saturday, December 5, 2015.   Carolers, a petting zoo, caricature artists, and Santa himself were all on hand to spread cheer and joy to all of Elyria. This event is made possible by the kindness and donations of our residents and businesses, so to all those who helped make this a reality again this year, please accept our sincere THANK YOU!  You can view a video of some of the events below, and remember, Santa will be at Finwood through the 23rd of December, and the lights will remain on at Finwood Estate (799 N. Abbe Road) and Ely Square throughout the Holidays!

The City Congratulates Crane Aerospace, Lear Romec

The City of Elyria Mayor’s Office was pleased to join in the recent celebration of one of our most distinguished companies.  On Thanksgiving Day, 2015 Crane Aerospace, Lear Romec achieved 365 days of being injury free.  Achieving this important milestone is reflective of the dedication and importance that is placed on safety in the workplace at 241 South Abbe Road.

To distinguish this achievement, the company held a celebratory lunch on December 2^nd and invited Elyria Mayor Holly Brinda and Safety Service Director Mary Siwierka.  The Mayor was pleased to present a proclamation, greet employees and learn more about this growing aerospace company with global influence.  Crane is a leading producer and service provider for Lear Romec oil, fuel, and coolant pumps used in aircraft, gas turbine engines and radar cooling systems.  The company serves the commercial transport, general aviation, business, regional jet and ground-based gas turbine markets.

The City of Elyria encourages safety at all Elyria companies and both the Elyria Fire Department and the Elyria Police Department regularly work with companies to help identify and mitigate safety risks.  If your company would like more information about how you can work with the City of Elyria to make your workplace safer, please contact the mayor’s Office at (440) 326-1402.     

2015 Holiday of Lights - December 5th!

 It's the most wonderful time of the year!  Please join us Saturday, December 5th, 2015 from 3:00-6:00 pm in Ely Square to the annual Holiday Lights program!  We will once again have a live petting zoo (complete with a REAL REINDEER!). carolers, kids crafts, movies, story-time, Mayor Holly Brinda's book giveway and free giftbags for the first 500 kids!  Holiday events have begun at around town, and Santa is joining us at Finwood Estate (799 N. Abbe) from 6-9:00PM every night through Decemeber 23rd!  The times for Saturday's festivities and the full holiday flyer are below.  Happy Holiday from the City of Elyria!

You can view the entire flyer (courtesy of the Chronicle Telegram) by clicking here!

Delay in Sanitation Pickup – November 26-28, 2015

Due to observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday, some residents will experience a delay in garbage and recycling pickup from November 26-28, 2015.  Residents whose normally scheduled pickup day is Thursday or Friday will experience a one day delay this week.  Thursday will be picked up Friday, and Friday will be picked up Saturday.  All other residents will have their pickups running as normally scheduled.  If you have questions, please contact the City of Elyria Department of Sanitation at 440-326-1404.

Holiday Lights 2015

You can help make a child’s life brighter this holiday season by making a donation to the City of Elyria’s Holiday Lights Program.  Your donation goes to creating gift bag for some of Elyria’s most at-risk children.  Please mail your donation via check, made payable to “The City of Elyria – Holiday Lights” and mail to:

Elyria City Hall- Attention Mayor’s Office
131 Court Street
Elyria, Ohio 44035

All donations are needed and appreciated! Thanks you, and Happy Holidays!

Citizen Satisfaction Survey

Your opinion matters! That’s why you are being invited to participate in the City of Elyria’s 2015 Citizen Satisfaction Survey.  The City is seeking citizen input on a number of service delivery, budget and planning issue and capital projects. Please click here or the image above to complete the survey by Friday, November 20, 2015.

You’re Invited to the November 12th Elyria Parks and Recreation Master Plan Workshop

Please join the City of Elyria, the Elyria Parks and Recreation Board and our Parks and Recreation Department for a MASTER PLAN PUBLIC WORKSHOP on Thursday evening, November 12 at 7:00pm at East Park Recreation Center – 1101 Prospect Street.  The purpose of the workshop is to share information, collect resident input on the future use of park facilities, and learn more about the recreational programs and parks services that you would like to see delivered in the future.   

This is a grant-funded planning process to find out what Elyria residents want and are willing to pay for in their parks and recreation system.  The session will be facilitated by parks planning consultants from Brandstetter and Carroll Inc., a national leader in this field.  If you are unable to attend the workshop, please participate in an online survey at:  www.SURVEYMONKEY.COM/R/ELYRIAPARKS   OR  GO TO WWW.ELYRIAPARKS.MYSIDEWALK.COM.  For more information contact Lisa Bowman at LBOWMAN@CITYOFELYRIA.ORG OR CALL 440-326-1500. 

Six New Officers Join the Elyria Police Force

From left: Capt. Andrew Eichenlaub, Ryan J. Conway, Zara F. Hudson II, Michael T. Walker, Mayor Holly Brinda, Elyria Police Chief Duane Whitely, Safety Service Director Mary Siwierka, Jason M. Walland, Paige B. Mitchell, and James M. Wise

Congratulations and a sincere thank you to the brave officers it was my honor to swear into duty with the Elyria Police Department this afternoon.  Please join me in welcoming our six new officers and wish them unending safety while they endeavor to keep all of us safe:

 

• Ryan J. Conway
• Zara F. Hudson II
• Michael T. Walker
• Jason M. Walland
• Paige B. Mitchell
• James M. Wise

More pictures below:

99th Annual Kiwanis Halloween Parade

Mayor Holly Brinda extends a sincere thank you to the Elyria Kiwanis for sponsoring the oldest known Halloween parade in the United States. In its 99th year, the parade featured hundreds of Elyria kids dressed in their Halloween finest.  Members of Kiwanis were on hand to generously dole out cookies, cider, and candy to everyone who attended.  We're looking forward to next year's 100th Annual Kiwanis Halloween Parade, which we're sure will be even bigger and better.  Enjoy the pictures below!

Reminder: Trick or Treat Night is Saturday, October 31st!

Trick or Treat Night in the City of Elyria will be Halloween night, October 31, 2015 from 6:00-7:30pm!  The Annual Kiwanis Halloween Parade will be this coming Sunday, October 25th. Lineup for the parade begins at 2:00pm near Suzin L. Chocolatiers on Broad Street, and the parade itself will start at 2:30pm.  If you have questions, please call the Mayor's Office at 440-326-1402.

Have fun and remember to be safe!  Click here to read some tips from Elyria Police Department on making sure everyone has a safe and healthy evening!

2015 Autumn Leaf Collection – City of Elyria

Beginning Monday, October 19, 2015 the City of Elyria leaf collection program will be in operation. Leaves must be raked to the curb in piles or windrows as close as possible, but not into the street. No brush, twigs, or other materials should be mixed with leaves as these items clog the vacuum equipment and slow the collection process.

Crews will cover the entire City and will concentrate first on areas with mature trees. There is no set schedule for collection as weather conditions, equipment and personnel – fluctuate day to day. Due to manpower and other variations (weather, equipment) no set date for collection on a particular street or area is available.

Collection will continue as equipment and personnel permit but may be curtailed at any time due to unforeseen circumstances. The City will make all efforts to collect up until inclement weather arrives.

Residents are encouraged to dispose of leaves at the Elyria City Compost Center, 45 Chestnut Street during their posted houses of operation. This Center is managed by Barnes Nursery and will remain open for this season until Saturday, December 5, 2015.

Please remember these important safety points:

·         Do NOT allow children to play in leaf piles near the street/curb.

·         Do NOT place branches or other debris in the leaf piles. Doing so may result in the non-collection of the leaves

·         DO NOT park vehicles on or near leave piles; we encourage residents to use their driveways during leaf and snow season in order to keep the roadways clear and accessible.

All yard waste materials may be dropped off at no cost by Elyria residents at the City’s compost facility at 45 Chestnut Street during their operations hours (see City website).

For additional information or questions, please call the Elyria Street Department at 440-322-3129 or the Safety Service Director’s office at 440-326-1404.

Leaves collected by crews are composted and not dumped into area landfills.  

Elyria NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet Huge Success

Congratulations to NAACP President Dee Tolbert, members, and 2015 award honorees for a successful year of advancing the cause of Freedom and Justice for All.  The 61^st annual event, moderated by Wayne Dawson of Fox 8 news, was held Saturday evening at LCCC featuring keynote speaker Dr. Terrell LaMont Strayhorn, professor of higher education at The Ohio State University and honoring several students and distinguished adults.

 

The following awards were presented:  Educational Book Awards: Precious Boone, Kayla Dickerson and Raven Hairston; Distinguished Service Awards: Nettie Mae Jackson (post-humously) and Frank Whitfield; Community Empowerment Awards: Tamara Coates and Mount Zion Baptist Church; the Lifetime Achievement Award: The Elyria Club of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Club; Member of the Year: Sue Ely  Krueger; Presidential Freedom Award:  Mr. Clay Shannon.   Congratulations for ajob well done!  … Elyria Mayor Holly Brinda      

 

 

 

MAYOR HELPS WELCOME NEW BUSINESS AT MIDWAY MALL

If you’re looking for ways to create a warmer atmosphere in your home sweet home, visit Midway Mall’s newest addition: Grammies Primitive Treasures.  Started by Elyria resident Cheryl Wacker and her family, her store features primitive décor and handmade crafts including highly fragrant grungy candles, pip berry garland, LED timer candles, framed prints, wax warmers, rugs, woven and quilted throws and much more! 

To find Grammies Primitive Treasures enter at the Food Court and turn right.  The new business is on the right side across from Lids.  Please join me in visiting Cheryl and helping her make her new business a success!    

Elyria Mayor Holly Brinda  

The Annual Elyria Apple Festival - This Weekend!

Summer may be winding down, but the Apple Festival is winding up for three days of food, fun, and festivities September 18, 19 and 20 in and around beautiful Ely Square in downtown Elyria.  Please bring your family and friends and join the City of Elyria, Elyria City Council and the Apple Festival Committee as we share an action-packed autumn weekend.

Whether your interests are concession grazing or craft shopping, classic car gazing or cornhole playing, 5K racing or apple pie eating, Princess Pageant watching or tapping your feet to three days of live entertainment by some of the area’s most popular entertainers -  the 35^th Annual Elyria Apple Festival has something for everyone.

The weekend kicks off Friday at 11am with a live broadcast by WOBL Radio, followed by performances by the Elyria High School and Church of the Open Door marching bands.  And live entertainment follows all day until 8:30pm on the square and behind the courthouse.

Saturday features many of the traditional events like the apple pie judging, apple bobbing and pie eating contests; the Princess Pageant; the Corn Hole Tournament behind City Hall, and live entertainment and dance team performances in the square and behind the courthouse.

Sunday will feature an antique, classic and special interest Car Show; a 5K Run and Fun Walk featuring an Elyria 1996 Olympic gold medalist; a live show by WIXY 1260; presentation of art awards; and more entertainment all day right up until the closing at 5:00pm.  Please take the time to look through this publication for more details about these activities and other exciting events.

And don’t forget while you’re downtown to also visit the new Elyria Arts Council and the newly renovated East Falls Observation Deck.  You’ll see even more improvements with the newly replaced Middle Avenue and a refreshed Cascade Park thanks to the City’s partnership with the Lorain County MetroParks.  And even more positive changes are coming to Downtown, Midway Mall and Cleveland Street areas soon thanks to new investors and a newly adopted redevelopment plan that over 180 Elyrians helped create.

So despite some challenges, there is much to celebrate in Elyria.  Please join us for the Apple Festival and for other year-round events that can be viewed at www.cityofelyria.org.  Sincere appreciation is extended to Apple Festival Coordinator Linda Brown, Century Club contributors, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, patrons and the Elyria Parks and Recreation Department.  Working together, we are all making Elyria Ohio’s community of opportunity!    

              

Elyria Cleveland POPS Concert - Saturday, September 5, 2015

 

Join us for a night of the Arts in Downtown Elyria on Labor Day Weekend!  The Annual Cleveland POPS concert will highlight a full day of fun-filled FREE family activities!  See itinerary and ad below for all the details!

Saturday, September 5, 2015
(Rain Date for the Cleveland Pops Orchestra Concert is Sunday, September 6 at 7:00pm in Ely Square)
1:00 – 5:30pm
Eighth Annual Jazz and Blues Music Festival by St. Andrews Episcopal Church
Becky Boyd and the Groove Train, The Lorain County Jazz Band, Jaime Flores and Locals to Jam
5:30 – 7:00pm
Elyria Arts Council sponsors public art activities for children and adults in Ely Square
6:15 – 6:45pm
Musical Petting Zoo – children meet musicians/learn about their instruments in Ely Square
7:00 – 9:00pm
Cleveland Pops Orchestra Concert – 20th Anniversary Season
Featuring Conductor Carl Topilow and his world-class musicians
1:00 – 9:00pm
Food Trucks available all day
Hershey’s Ice Cream, Lorenzo’s Pizza, By the Slab Ribs, Cofield’s BBQ,
The Oasis Grille, The Brunch Box

Elyria Business News From Your Mayor

Patronize the Griswold Road Area Businesses During Construction

Please help area businesses in the Griswold Road/SR57/49th Street Bridge construction area by taking a few extra minutes to navigate the zone and support their businesses.  Most of the work will be complete by the end of October 2016, but they need your business now. 

Did you know…. Monitorman Inc. at 540 Griswold Road specializes in the resale of off-lease Laptops, PCs, Monitors and other computer components?  Check out their variety of products and services – including FREE Diagnostics, Virus and Spyware removal and Tablet/Cell Phone repair.   For more information visit them or call them at (440) 323-0645.  They can also be found on facebook at www.facebook.com/MonitormanInc. 

Moore Counseling and Mediation Services Locates Downtown

Moore Counseling and Mediation Services recently opened its new Elyria office at 1131 East Broad Street in Downtown Elyria. MCMS is a community based provider of addiction, behavioral health, employee assistance programs (EAP) and mediation services.  For more information, please contact 440-365-1900.

New Archery Business Moving into Elyria on Broad Street

Stay tuned for more information on a new archery business moving into a vacant store-front on Broad Street across from the Lorain County Community and Transportation Center.     

Express Employment Professionals Open Elyria Office

Express Employment Professionals recently celebrated the opening of their Elyria Office at 992 North Abbe Road across from Lorain County Community College.  The company takes on the responsibility of recruiting top talent for local companies and will fill both short- to long-term temporary positions, to fulltime direct hire.  For more information they can be reached at (440) 723-2882.

Trick or Treat Night - October 31st, 2015

Trick or Treat Night in the City of Elyria will be Halloween night, October 31, 2015 from 6:00-7:30pm!  The Annual Kiwanis Halloween Parade will be the previous Sunday, October 25th.  More details to follow but if you questions now, please call the Mayor's Office at 440-326-1402.

Have fun and remember to be safe!  Click here to read some tips from Elyria Police Department on making sure everyone has a safe and healthy evening!

Elyria Narcotics Unit Arrests 21 in Drug Sting

Per Sergeant James Welsh, Elyria Police Narcotics:

The Elyria Police Narcotics Unit made (21) drugs arrests in eight days beginning August 5^th 2015. “Operation Sundown” was initiated in response to the growing number of neighborhood drug complaints and gun violence that have occurred this summer in Elyria.

“Operation Sundown” targeted street level drug dealers that distribute cocaine and heroin to drug addicts throughout the City of Elyria and Lorain County. The majority of the individuals targeted have conducted drug transactions in homes, apartment buildings, city streets, alleys, street corners, parks and parking lots throughout the City of Elyria.

During “Operation Sundown,” the Elyria Police Narcotics Unit seized (3) handguns, a Davis .22 caliber Derringer, Glock 9mm, Desert Eagle 9mm, and military issued body armor. Detectives also seized (60 Grams) Cocaine, (25 Grams) Heroin, (30 Grams) Marijuana, (27 Doses) of Oxycodone, and (49 Doses) of MDMA “Ecstasy.” The combined street value of the drugs seized is approximately $15,335.00. In addition to the guns and drugs, detectives also seized $5,658.76 in US Currency and (5) vehicles.

The Elyria Police Narcotics Unit will continue to target those individuals responsible for the sale and distribution of narcotics in this community in an effort to decrease gun violence and other ancillary crimes that are often associated with illegal use and sale of street drugs.

 

The following suspects were charged during “Operation Sundown.”

 

A Message from Mayor Brinda: Neighborhood Improvements, Downtown Activities

  The City of Elyria, in partnership with the Lorain County Landbank and Port Authority, is happy to announce that the City is making significance progress in eliminating abandoned, dilapidated, nuisance properties from Elyria’s neighborhoods.  Between the Spring of 2013 and August 2015, a total of 158 homes have been demolished and the lots have been cleared.  By the end of 2015, that number will rise to 209 homes taken down, and by the end of 2016, the City is scheduled to eliminate a minimum of 237 blighted properties.   

This action is necessary to protect the public, eliminate places that harbor criminal activity, and protect property values in neighborhoods.   At the end of 2015, the City and County will assess the status of the properties and begin to make them available for redevelopment for either residential or commercial use.  In the meantime, the City and neighbors have transformed some of the properties into beautiful Community Gardens that are yielding nutritious food for the neighborhoods in Elyria.     

Some homes that are salvageable are saved and made available to the public after they are renovated at a very affordable price through the City’s federal Neighborhood Stabilization Fund program.  For more information to see if you qualify to purchase a rehabilitated home please contact the City of Elyria Community Development Department at 326-1540.      

Visit the Farmer’s Market and Elyria Arts Council this Weekend

Come Downtown Elyria this Saturday and join me at the Farmer’s Market and the Elyria Artworks Studio.  The Invest Elyria Farmer’s Market at 328 BroadStreet is open from 10am-2pm and the Elyria Arts Council’s Artworks Studio at336 Broad Street is open from 10am-3:00pm. 

 

You are sure to find something you like.  So far at the Farmer’s Market I’ve really enjoyed Revolution Popcorn, homemade banana/walnut bread, pear spread, garlic, and lots of beautiful, fresh vegetables. 

And if you’re looking to treat yourself, or purchase a unique and lasting gift, Elyria Artworks is sure to have what you need.  Fourteen working artists are selling their work, offering classes and demonstrations, and providing the public with an opportunity to explore the arts in their beautiful gallery.

City of Elyria Partners With Crains Cleveland Business And MAGNET to Help Local Manufacturers

Helping Elyria manufacturers stay competitive…. That’s the aim of a partnership between the City of Elyria, Crains Cleveland Business and MAGNET as we join forces with other regional partners to present the 2015 (M)Power Manufacturing Assembly on Wednesday, September 30 from 7:30am – 1:30pm at the John S. Knight Center – 77 East Mill Street in Akron.  “As a City we are excited to be part of this pro-active approach to support our very significant and evolving manufacturing community in Elyria,” said Mayor Holly Brinda.  “We are a city of makers with a global impact and maintaining our competitive edge is important to our community and the world.”   

Elyria and other regional manufacturers are being invited and encouraged to participate in the program designed to provide attendees with an in-depth, street-level view for growing their business. Educational sessions will address ways to increase their competitive advantage in the new face of manufacturing and today’s economically challenging times.

The 2014 event was a sell-out, so Elyria companies are encouraged to register and purchase their tickets early to secure a spot in the conference.  Elyria manufacturers who would like to learn more should go to the event website here.  A direct link to the registration page can be found here.  All reservations must be made in advance.  A continental breakfast will be served.  Single tickets are $55, groups of five are $250, and groups of ten are $475. 

The City of Elyria will also have a presence at the event to share information with the Northeast Ohio manufacturing community about Elyria and the many assets, opportunities and incentives the City offers to help businesses thrive. 

Join us on September 30th and POWER UP for Manufacturing Month!

Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Time: 7:30am-1:30pm            
Location: John S. Knight Center, 77 E Mill St, Akron, OH44308

EVENT AGENDA

7:30-8:00am - Networking / Registration / Breakfast
8:00-9:00am – Morning Keynote Address      
9:00-9:15am – BREAK
9:15-10:45am – Breakout Sessions

#1 - "Digital Marketing SmackDown - Who is the Best Around?"

#2 - "Quit Whining, Start Winning: 3 Must-Have Workforce Development Strategies for Your Business"
#3 - "Ideation: Turn Your Business Problems of Today Into Tomorrow's Innovations"
#4 – “Going Global"
#5 – “How to Grow in a Non-Growth Environment: Does M&A fit in your growth strategy?”
#6 – “Pursuing Operational Excellence: 3 Best Practices Your Company Needs”

10:45-11:15am – BREAK / Lunch Buffet Available
11:15am-12:45pm –CEO Panel Discussion
12:45 - 1:30pm – Additional Networking / Manufacturing Assembly Showcase

**Speakers and panelists to be announced soon!**

City of Elyria 2015 Fireworks Info and Instructions

FIREWORKS SCHEDULE & INSTRUCTIONS

Agenda

• 5:00pm: West Park Opens to the Public
• 5:00pm: Handicap Parking opens (Central West Park Parking Lot off Foster Avenue)
• 6:00pm: Picnic Begins/Food Vendors Open
• 7:00pm: Elyria Parks & Recreation Staff provide family games
• 6:00 – 10:00pm: Live Entertainment WOBL DJ & Remote Broadcast WOBL Radio 1320
• 9:30 – 10:30pm: Opening Presentations & Fireworks Simulcast by WOBL Radio 1320
• 9:30pm: Mayor Holly Brinda: Welcome, Introduction of Sponsors
• 9:45pm: Presenting of the Colors – Elyria Veterans Groups
• 9:50pm: Pledge of Allegiance – US Army Veteran Terry Stone
• 9:55pm: Star Spangled Banner: Tim Deery
• DUSK: Fireworks begins
• 10:30pm: Fireworks end
• 11:45pm: Curfew begins

BRING Your Radio!

Parking Instructions

Please Carpool: While the City and area businesses and organizations are working hard to create parking for this event, (see list of free parking below) there will still be a limited number of parking spots available.
 
Handicap Parking: Enter the Central West Park Parking Lot via the Foster Avenue entrance. An official Handicap Parking Identification Tag will be required to gain access for drop-off and parking. 
 
Other Available Free Parking: Thank you to the following businesses/organizations for allowing event parking at no cost. (Please note, all parking is at your own risk. Neither the city nor the owner of the lot/property assumes any responsibility for you or your passengers, your vehicle or your belongings. Parking spots will be available at the close of business for each location; time will vary by organization/business.) Free parking is available at: Kennedy’s Cycle, 1019 Lowell Street; former Bank Building, 1000 Lowell Street; Plasto-Tech, 708 Lowell Street; Original Glorious Apostolic Church, 995 Foster Avenue; Thomas Jefferson School, 616 Foster Avenue; and Oakwood Elementary School at 925 Spruce Street. Other locations may charge for parking or ask for donations.

Parking Prohibited: For safety purposes, parking on the streets will be limited so please pay attention to posted signage. Parking will not be permitted on: West side of Penfield Avenue from Spruce Street to Oakwood Drive; both sides of Foster Avenue from Woodland Avenue to the entrance to Penfield Avenue; both sides of Penfield Avenue from Lowell Street to Oakwood Drive; North side of Foster Avenue between Woodland Avenue & Lake Avenue; both sides of Lowell Street between Lake Avenue and the railroad bridge by 3M; and Oakwood Street from Penfield Avenue to Clemens Avenue.

Residential Traffic: Only residential traffic will be permitted on Rockfern and Seneca avenues.

Adjusted Traffic Patterns: Please see the city’s website for complete traffic pattern adjustments for the fireworks celebration at www.cityofelyria.org.

Park Rules for the Fireworks

You may bring into the park: radios, blankets and beach towels, tarps, lawn chairs, personal-size umbrellas, cameras, cell phones, binoculars, sealed water bottles, baby strollers, wagons, food, flashlight, bug repellent, coolers. All items brought into the park are subject to city inspection.
 
The following items are strictly prohibited: fireworks or sparklers; throwing or batting toys; skateboards or inline skates; bicycles; laser pointers; alcohol; illegal drugs; tents; large golf umbrellas or flags; animals (except service dogs).

Park Etiquette
Please, be thoughtful when setting up lawn chairs that you try not to block others’ views; try not to smoke cigarettes in close proximity to others – especially children; be thoughtful while navigating through crowds to insure the safety of those who may be unsteady on their feet or those transporting children in strollers or wagons.
    
Food Vendors
For your dining pleasure, the following food vendors, who will be inspected and approved by the Elyria Health Department, will be providing food: Hershey’s Ice Cream ‘n More, By the Slab, Goldstar, Marco’s Pizza, Donna’s Diner, Lorenzo’s Pizzeria, Oasis Grille, Cofield’s BBQ.
 
Curfew
For safety and security reasons, the City of Elyria will be enforcing an 11:45pm city-wide curfew to encourage citizens to leave West Park and the neighborhood immediately after the fireworks show.

 Thank You to These City of Elyria Summer of 2015

Community Reinvestment Sponsors

(Fireworks, Camps, Concert Supporters: $10,000 - $500)

BENDIX, BASF, The Nord Family Foundation, Nordson Corporation Foundation, 3M Corporation, 3M Foundation, Republic Services, Riddell, Elyria Charities, Bob’s Tire service, Lorain National Bank, AECOM, K.E. McCartney & Associates, Environmental Rate Consultants, I-90 Nissan, Friends of Cascade, University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center, Kiwanis, The Chronicle Telegram, Elyria Plastics, Dunlap’s Garage, Ridge Tool Company, Eco tree Service, American Legion Post 12, Maude de la Porte, Mayor Holly Brinda, John Gaydosh, KS Associates, Gregory Trucking, Psych & Psych … and many, many more.   

NEW ELYRIA ARTS COUNCIL SPONSORS ART CLASSES

If you’re feeling creative and looking for something to do this summer, visit the new ELYRIA ART WORKS COMMUNITY ART CENTER and GALLERY located at 336 Broad Street in the former Brandau Jeweler building.  Sponsored by the Elyria Arts Council, the Center is now offering a full array of summer classes.  Join me in checking them out, learn something new, and support the arts in downtown Elyria!   

                                                                                                    ….Elyria Mayor Holly Brinda

ELYRIA  ART WORKS COMMUNITY ART CENTER and GALLERY

Sponsored by the Elyria Arts Council     

336 Broad Street   440-328-3025

SCHEDULE OF CLASSES

BEGINNING PENCIL DRAWING     

Thursdays 10:30 – 11:15 am  June 18, 25,   July 2, 9

 Ages 6 and up   - Discover how to create what the eye sees or the minds eye envisions.  Basic concepts of  line, shape, and form.  Use of line to give form and texture.           

All materials provided, no instructional fee.  A donation to the gallery for operating expenses is appreciated but not required.   Call Megan at 440-323-3007

POTTERY CLASSES      

Wednesday nights  6 – 8:30pm  July 29, August 5,19,26 

Second class: Wednesday nights  6 – 8:30pm  September 16, 23, October 7, 14

                 

Basic hand-building and coiling techniques, new techniques for repeat students.  Multiple pieces will be completed depending on choice of finishing techniques.  A great stress reliever and a good time for all.   All supplies provided.

           

Class fee $100:00.  Class size is limited to 10 students. Call Anne at 419-481-0879    

WATERCOLOR PAINTING  CLASSES

Thursdays 10:00am – 12:30pm   July 16, 23, 30  August 6

Second class: Thursdays  12:00 - 2:30pm September 10, 17, 24,  October 1

           

Explore many painting techniques.  It will get you started on using those techniques to paint your subject.  You will finish at least two paintings. All supplies will be provided for the first two classes.  You will need to bring your own paint and paper to the second two class sessions.

Class fee is $100.00.  Class size is limited to 8 students.  Call Anne   419-481-0879

BEGINNING PHOTOGRAPHY

Thursdays 6:00 – 8:00pm  June 25 – August 13

Second Class:  September 3 – October 22

We will cover everything form camera buttons to shooting in manual mode.  If taking as a refresher, 20% off. 

ADVANCED PHOTO CLASS

Tuesdays 6:00 – 8:00pm  August 11, September 1 – October 20

Class fee $100.00  Email Mark at ImageVisionStudios@gmail.com or 440-506-0941

  

ROMAINIAN POINT LACE

Saturdays  10:00am – 1:00pm    September 5, 12, 19, 25

Second class:  November 7, 14, 21, 28

For beginners.  Romanian Point Lace originated in the 14^th century.  Learn the history and technique with Doina.  Basic cord will be taught in the first two sessions and needle lace in the second two sessions.  Visit Elyria Arts Council on facebook to view the beauty of this artistry.

Cost is $100.00 for the four sessions, all supplies provided.  Call 440-328-3025 to register.

Generous Elyrians & Organizations Make Fireworks, Camps, Concerts, Safety Town Possible

Thanks to the generosity of many, the City of Elyria will once again be sponsoring a host of fun, family-friendly activities this summer including fireworks, free summer camps, summer concerts and safety town.  Hundreds of individuals, corporations, foundations and organizations have stepped forward and donated over $100,000 to keep many important quality of life traditions going in Elyria. 

“Given the City’s very tight budget, we are finding creative ways to work with our community partners to pool our human and programming resources, and raise philanthropic dollars to offer healthy summer programming alternatives,” said Elyria Mayor Holly Brinda.  “I am so very proud to live in a city where our citizens, businesses, organizations and foundations pull together for the greater good to create opportunities for all of us to share.” 

“Donations at any level are needed and very much appreciated, but I would like to give special thanks to a number of Community Reinvestment Sponsors who have made very significant gifts to help better the lives of children and families in our community,” said Brinda. 

Those organizations so far this year that have invested with the City as Community Reinvestment Sponsors at levels between $10,000 - $500 include the following:  BASF and Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems at $10,000; 3M Corporation and 3M Foundation at $6,000; Republic Services, Riddell and Elyria Charities at $5,000; Bob’s Tire, Lorain National Bank, K.E. McCartney, and Environmental Rate Consultants at $2,500; Friends of Cascade at $2,200; 1-90 Nissan at $2,000; University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center at $1,750; the Chronicle Telegram and Kiwanis at $1,000; Elyria Plastics at $750; Ridge Tool Company at $700; Gregory Trucking at $600; and Dunlap’s Garage, KS Associates, Inc., Eco Tree Services, American Legion Post 12, and Maude Andre de la Porte at $500.   The City of Elyria is also  grateful to the ongoing grant support (pending approval) from the Nord Family Foundation and the Nordson Corporation Foundation at $10,000 each.    (These and hundreds of other donors will be recognized in an upcoming advertisement in the Chronicle Telegram and on Cable Television Channel 12. ) 

 

Summer 2015 Programming Highlights

Great American Picnic & Fireworks Show

Elyria’s second annual Great American Picnic and Fireworks Show will take place again this summer on July 1, with a rain date of July 2, at West Park – thanks to Presenting Sponsor Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, with supporting sponsors Riddell and Republic Services and many others.  Activities will run from 6:00pm – 10:45pm and feature a variety of food, family games, live music, and a second to none fireworks display that fuses musical production with technical artistry to build a star-spangled spectacular show.

Reach & Rise Discovery Camps

For the fourth year in a row, the City of Elyria and its 12 government, education and nonprofit programming partners and 11 funding partners will offer 10 Reach and Rise Discovery Camps to 700 children and youth between June 15 and August 14.  The camps are designed to create excitement and build knowledge and skills in the areas of science, math, reading, music and the arts.  To register visit the Elyria Parks and Recreation Department at City Hall – 131 Court Street.  The Presenting Corporate Sponsor for this year’s camps is BASF, with pending support from Nord Family Foundation, Nordson Corporation Foundation, and Supporting Sponsors Elyria Charities, 3M Foundation and many others. 

Summer Concerts

Ely Square Thursday Concerts

Every Thursday from June 4 through August 13 from 11:30am – 1:00pm the Elyria Parks and Recreation Department will sponsor lunchtime summer concerts in the Ely Square Gazebo.  Bring your lunch, your friends and your lawn chair and enjoy the music of Mike Moore on June 4, 732 Electric Duo on June 11, New Decade on June 18, Ed Klimczak on June 25, Tony T on July 2, Keith Ransom on July 9, Malt Shoppe Memories on July 16, Lauretta Lausin Quartet on July 23, Johnny Aces and the Wingmen on July 30, Figure 8 on August 6, and Yearbook on August 13.   

“Rockin” in the Park – LaFlavour 5^th Year Anniversary Concert

Sponsored by 1-90 Nissan, this popular concert attracts Elyrians of all ages and features tunes from the 50’s, 60’s, the Disco era and more!   Bring your blanket or lawn chair and come rock by the fountain with the six-member band LaFlavour on Sunday, July 26 from 6-8:00pm. 

Cleveland Pops Orchestra Concert

The spectacular Cleveland Pops Orchestra will return to Ely Square again for a Labor Day Weekend extravaganza scheduled for Saturday evening September 5, with a rain date of Sunday, September 6.  The concert begins at 7:00pm, but plan to arrive early to stake out your space, set up your lawn chairs, and enjoy the food vendors that will be made available beginning at 5:30pm.   This family-friendly, fun-filled evening will include just the right mix of classics and pop to keep every taste and age group tapping their toes and humming to the beat.  And expect some surprises to keep you coming back for more – including our younger residents!   Main Street Elyria, the City of Elyria, and many individual donors help make this concert possible.    

  

Safety Town

Sponsored by the Elyria Kiwanis Club, the Elyria Police Department and the Elyria Parks and Recreation Department, Safety Town will be held this year in four sessions, Monday through Thursday at Northwood Middle School, 700 Gulf Road.  Safety Town is designed to teach safety lessons both at school and at home to boys and girls entering Kindergarten in the Fall.  Session will be held: June 15-19, June 22 – 26, July 6 – 10, and July 13 – 17.  To register for one of these four sessions call (440) 326-1500.    

Other Activities/Events

Many other recreational activities and events are also available through the Elyria Parks and Recreation Department and the Mayor’s Office and can be viewed on the city’s website at www.cityofelyria.org. Additional information regarding all events and activities will be released closer to the respective event/activity dates.  For more information call the Mayor’s Office at (440) 326-1402.         

2015 Memorial Day Parade

 

Monday, May 25th 2015 is Memorial Day. It is a time to honor those we have lost, and those who devoted their lives to the betterment of our lives and our country.  The parade procession will be in full force Monday morning, and various groups will hold ceremonies throughout the weekend.  Bring your whole family downtown and help us show the world how patriotic the City of Elyria can be! 

 

Also, we're very close to bringing fireworks back for 2015!  We're making the final push through the end of this month!  You can still make donations online here, or you can fill out this form and mail it with a check made out to City of Elyria - Fireworks Fund, Attention Mayor Holly Brinda - Elyria City Hall, Suite 301, Elyria, Ohio 44035.  ANY HELP IS VERY MUCH APPRECIATED!  We're very close and with your help we can make it happen again!

Parade info is listed below.

 

 

Elyria Council of Veterans Memorial Day Services & Parade 

Ely Square, Downtown Elyria - Monday, May 25, 2015 at 10:00 a.m.

(the parade will not be cancelled for any reason)

 

The Parade starts to form at 9:00 a.m.
1^st Division - Form on 2^nd Street between Middle Avenue and Court Street, Court Street from 2^nd to Broad Street
2^nd Division - Form behind Elyria City Hall on 2^nd Street
3^rd Division - Form in the Justice Center Parking lot off of 2^nd Street
4^th Division (NEW) - Form on Second Street (between Middle Avenue and East Avenue) and will travel West bound on Second to Court Street
Note:
The parade route will begin at Court and Broad Streets; go east on Broad to Washington Avenue, north on Washington Avenue to Harrison Street, east on Harrison Street to Glenwood Street. The Parade will end at Harrison & Glenwood.

14 new Businesses Locate Downtown Elyria/Summer Concerts to Begin!

The Brinda Administration is happy to announce that Elyria has had 14 new businesses locate Downtown in the last year. The Lorain National Bank Building is almost full! Welcome attorneys Simonoff, Kobasher, Oliver, Pinsky, Smith, Heartfelt Home Healthcare, AVL Security and Tactical, Elegant Assets, Page Plus Wireless, Lalla Wireless, Inside/Outside Pilates, Mystical Moon, The Ballroom Dance Place, The Elyria Arts Council, and the Lorain County Urban League.

I would encourage everyone to visit downtown and see what new goods and services are being offered.  And why not do it during our summer concert series.  Beginning June 4^th the Elyria Parks and Recreation Department will be sponsoring FREE lunchtime summer concerts every Thursday through August 13 from 11:30 am – 1:00pm in Ely Square.  Come enjoy the fellowship, great music, food from downtown restaurants and food trucks, and more.    

2015 Elyria Fireworks - You Can Help Make It Happen!

Dear Fellow Elyrian,

Thanks to the generous support of many, in 2014 we were able to sponsor The Great American Picnic and Fireworks Show at West Park. The fireworks show and associated events were such a great success many of our residents and the event sponsors are asking for us to try to keep the tradition going.

So, in the true  spirit of Americana, the city of Elyria is again this year offering individuals, businesses, corporations and organizations the opportunity to raise the $40,000 in donated funds necessary to host the event this summer.  Given the City’s very tight budget, the only way we can sponsor another event like this is through philanthropic contributions.  If we can raise the money by May 15th, the event will be held on July 1 with a rain date of July 2 at West Park – 1200 Foster Avenue.  These dates have been chosen to prevent the City from having to pay holiday-overtime for safety forces that are necessary to make this event possible.  If you make a donation and we don’t reach our goal – we will save your donation for a fireworks display in the summer of 2016.

Please consider becoming a sponsor or making a donation to the 2015 City of Elyria Great American Picnic and Fireworks fund.  Any donation is needed and appreciated and is tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.  Donations can be made by credit card on a secure server via the City’s website.  You can also respond by mailing a check with this form.  Checks should be made payable to: City of Elyria – Fireworks Fund, Attention Mayor Holly Brinda – Elyria City Hall, 131 Court Street, Suite 301 – Elyria, Ohio 44035.

Sincerely,
Holly C. Brinda
Mayor