THE WAY FORWARD LEADER LUNCH BREAK ARCHIVE

Scott presented the vision for the lakefront development, emphasizing the focus on public space and access. He talked about how NCWDC was created as an independent organization to execute the master plan and the need to communicate the with the general public. He emphasized the organization’s dedication to ensuring equitable access by providing free and low-cost  public space to the general population.

Monica shared the significant economic impact of the Women’s Final Four event on Cleveland, highlighting its role in changing perceptions of the city and engaging both locals and visitors. She also discussed initiatives and legacy-building efforts to promoting education, sports, and community engagement. Monica talked about the rise of women’s sports in Cleveland and the importance of supporting young people in sports. She also touched on sports betting and future events the Sports Commission aims to secure.

Patrick Shepherd, the associate director of the Cleveland International Film Festival (CIFF), discussed the festival’s history, challenges, and future direction. He highlighted the festival’s educational initiatives, community engagement efforts, and current in-person screenings at Playhouse Square, as well as the upcoming streaming festival and the challenges of including all films in the streaming platform. Patrick discussed the changes in filmmaking accessibility over the years and the evolving partnerships at the festival. He also talked about the importance of community engagement and fundraising in both his current and future roles and explained the process of film selection and community involvement at CIFF.

Dr. Ellenbogen provided an overview of the Science Center’s comprehensive programs and recent transformations, including the new robotics lab and Cleveland Creates gallery. She shared the optimal timing and location for viewing of the upcoming eclipse, and discussed how being directly on the lake front makes Cleveland especially well-positioned to celebrate the eclipse, including a data comparison between Cleveland and Dallas (also in the path of the totality).

She discussed the Total Eclipse Fest, that will include exhibits and interactions with NASA scientists and astronauts and art performances by organizations like the Cleveland Orchestra, Karamu House, and Cleveland Public Theater. Partners such as Cleveland State, Moen, and OhioCAT will provide additional activities, and there will be VIP observation spots, food trucks, and forums.

Keri shared her journey in the construction industry and her role as a mentor in the rising contractor program. Diana emphasized the importance of economic inclusion and diversity in the construction industry. They discussed the importance of economic inclusion programs in the construction industry to break barriers and provide opportunities for women and minorities. They addressed the challenges women and minorities face in the workplace, including imposter syndrome and the emotional tax of being a minority.

Sean provided an overview of The Trust for Public Land’s (TPL) mission and work. He emphasized TPL’s core values, including promoting access to parks, leveraging data to target communities in need, and fostering resident input and empowerment. He highlighted TPL’s impact, including protecting over 18,000 total acres, connecting over 100,000 people to the outdoors, and helping Cuyahoga Valley National Park become a part of the National Park System. Sean discussed TPL’s efforts to achieve park equity in Cleveland, including the 10-Minute Walk campaign, challenges in park system understanding, and the launch of a park equity accelerator with the city.