Life has been a little surreal these past few weeks. Scratch that — really surreal.
A virus we knew little about months ago is now all that consumes us as a city, a state, a nation and a world.
I know it’s easy to panic, and that stress we’re all feeling is real. At times, I’m struggling to stay positive among the blitz of information pouring in — almost every second it seems. I’m sure you’re there with me.
As a city magazine that focuses on promoting the city of Cleveland and all the wonderful, unique and fun things to do each month, Cleveland Magazine’s April issue was meant to be no exception.
When our editorial team started planning “150 Things Every Clevelander Must Do” months ago, we envisioned how our readers could use this guide to jumpstart their spring (a hike in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park) and plan a great summer full of activities and experiences (Saturday mornings at the Shaker Square Market, or maybe a musical at Playhouse Square).
Given the current situation we all face, many events, concerts, performances and institutions have been canceled, postponed or shut down until future notice.
But in the midst of all the uncertainty, I know life will return to normal — or at least a new normal.
One day you’ll take your family to a Cleveland Indians ballgame (check out Section 103, it’s got some of the best seats in the place), grab beers with coworkers at Saucy Brew Works in Hingetown (we’re fans of the easy-drinking, crisp Habituale) or meet friends for a concert at the Beachland Ballroom (the iconic Waterloo Arts District music venue celebrated 20 years in March).
When that time comes, I hope you return to this April issue and use it as a resource for all those things you have on your own must-do list. Small businesses — restaurants, breweries, shops, artists, makers, contractors and more — will need our support then more than ever.
Cleveland Magazine has been a part of the Northeast Ohio community for almost 50 years and during that time we’ve strived to provide our readers with investigative stories and lifestyle journalism that helps you live your best life in Cleveland. That remains true — even more so today.
While we’re not a breaking news organization, we have shifted our focus to digital stories that can help you during this everchanging time, with daily updates on COVID-19, pieces on how to support local businesses and our “How It Feels” series, firsthand accounts from locals uniquely impacted by the coronavirus and social distancing.
We are committed to bringing you important information, insightful stories and warmhearted narratives in our monthly magazine, digital platforms and social media.
We welcome your feedback and story ideas. You can reach me directly at schneider@clevelandmagazine.com.
Take care Cleveland,
Kim Schneider
