In less than two weeks, the year 2024 will conclude, a momentous year in many ways. Donald Trump was elected for his second term as president and won the popular vote for the first time. Devastating hurricanes hit Florida and moved deep inland into North Carolina, while Greater Cleveland experienced five tornadoes in one day. The war in Ukraine entered its third year and continued to escalate, and Israel’s assault on Gaza to root out Hamas attackers and release the hostages continued.
But the year was also full of happy, amazing, apolitical developments.
Cleveland had a front row seat during a total solar eclipse, creating a lifetime of memories for many of those amazing moments of daytime darkness when stars came into view, birds fell silent and children screamed and shouted or set off fireworks.
The Guardians capped off a great season in command of their division by winning the division playoffs and reaching the American League Championship series against the Yankees, memorably winning Game 3 7-5 for the hometown crowd when “Big Christmas” Jhonkensy Noel’s game-tying two-run homer in the ninth inning set the table for David Fry’s walkoff homer in the bottom of the 10th.
It was also the year that the city of Cleveland formally transferred management of the historic West Side Market to the nonprofit Cleveland Public Market Corp., as a prelude to a reimagining of the iconic market.
So what were the best moments of 2024 for the members of our Editorial Board Roundtable?
Leila Atassi, public interest and advocacy manager:
Welcoming Zuzu, our chocolate-based Labradoodle puppy, to the family was the highlight of 2024. Named after George Bailey’s daughter in ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’, Zuzu embodies hope and joy, just like the petals in George’s pocket that reminded him of life. miracles. Her playful spirit and boundless love have brought a new kind of magic to our home, making this year unforgettable.
Ted Diadiun, columnist:
If you sit on this beautiful marble as long as I have, every day is a blessing and every morning a promise of good things. It is folly to dwell on the perceived dangers that lie ahead – we still live in a land of freedom and potential, and most of the world would like to have our problems. As Tiny Tim said: “God bless us all!”
Thomas Suddes, editorial writer:
The highlight of this year was witnessing the many acts of kindness and generosity that Ohioans – especially in Greater Cleveland – showed to other Ohioans facing adversity, or worse. For generations, Northeast Ohio has had a reputation for institutional philanthropy and individual empathy. Just like before, when other people were in pain in 2024. Greater Clevelanders responded, and it was inspiring.
Lisa Garvin, editorial board member:
When I wasn’t feeling existential dread about the election, I was thoroughly enjoying the Guardians season. With a new manager, a young team and a small payroll, they played great baseball, and cheerful teammates like Austin Hedges simply made them a joy to watch. And be able to see a total solar eclipse from my backyard? Priceless.
Victor Ruiz, editorial board member:
The best moments for me were watching my grandson grow, dropping my daughter off at Ohio State University, and supporting my sons as they launched their careers. As for Cleveland, the total solar eclipse was certainly a magical moment that I will never forget. And speaking of unforgettable, how about those Cavs!
Mary Cay Doherty, Editorial Board Member:
My husband and I are grateful for the blessings of 2024. Our oldest son visited us for five weeks between the end of his military service and the start of graduate school. Our youngest son and his girlfriend are engaged, and our eldest daughter and her husband are expecting their first child. In the meantime, we’ll cherish the time with our “baby” before she graduates next spring.
Elizabeth Sullivan, Opinion Director:
I am so grateful for the peace and happiness I get from friends and family and for the amazing beauty of Cleveland and the lakefront and parks that grab me every day. My mind is repeatedly captured and entranced by the enchanting plays at the Great Lakes Theater and Cleveland Play House, and by the incredible musical gifts of the nation’s greatest band, our very own Cleveland Orchestra, but not to mention my beloved former orchestra forget. , the Cleveland Women’s Orchestra, which will celebrate its 90th anniversary next year.
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