1. Plant Cool-Weather Crops: Early April is ideal for sowing seeds directly into the soil for vegetables like peas, radishes, carrots, and leafy greens. These crops can handle the still-cool nights.
2. Prepare Soil and Beds: Continue to prepare your garden beds. Remove any remaining winter debris, turn the soil, and enrich it with compost or well-rotted manure to boost nutrient content.
3. Prune and Clean: Prune spring-flowering shrubs and trees after they bloom to maintain their shape and health. Also, clean up around plants to reduce the risk of disease and pests.
4. Start Transplants: Begin to harden off seedlings started indoors so they can adjust to outdoor conditions. Gradually increase their exposure to sunlight and outdoor temperatures before planting them in the garden.
5. Lawn Care: Rake to remove thatch and aerate your lawn to improve water penetration. April is also a good time to overseed any bare patches.
6. Mulching: Apply mulch around trees, shrubs, and beds to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature.
7. Water Wisely: As the weather warms, begin a regular watering schedule, especially for newly planted seeds and seedlings that require consistent moisture to germinate and grow.

By diligently following these tasks, gardeners in Bedford can ensure their gardens are robust, healthy, and ready for the coming growth season. April’s efforts lay the groundwork for a lush and productive garden.

The post April Gardening Essentials: Cultivating a Thriving Garden in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Benefits of Wildflower Gardens

Wildflower gardens are low-maintenance and environmentally friendly. They require less water and fewer chemicals than traditional lawns, and they offer a natural, dynamic display throughout the seasons. By choosing native species, gardeners can ensure their gardens are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, further reducing the need for artificial supports.

Choosing the Right Wildflowers

Select native wildflowers for the best results. Species such as Black-eyed Susans, Ohio Spiderwort, and Purple Coneflower are excellent choices for Bedford. These plants are not only beautiful but are adapted to thrive in Ohio’s climate, making them easier to maintain.

Local Regulations to Consider

Before planting a wildflower garden, it’s crucial to review Bedford’s local ordinances regarding yard maintenance. Specifically, Bedford’s municipal codes require that gardens must not extend beyond the front building line of your house. Additionally, all gardens must be maintained in a manner that does not create a nuisance throughout the seasons. This includes avoiding the growth of tall grasses or noxious weeds that exceed five inches in height.

Bedford residents should be particularly mindful that wildflower gardens can grow tall, and tall grasses or weeds may violate the city’s regulations if they exceed five inches in height. The city requires that weeds and tall grasses be removed if they surpass this height, so it’s essential to monitor the growth of your wildflowers to avoid overgrowth.

If you’re unsure about any local rules, it’s best to contact Bedford’s Building Department or City Planning Office for precise information and to ensure your garden complies with city regulations. The Bedford Building Department can offer guidance on what’s acceptable in front yards and help you avoid potential issues. For gardening advice, including selecting the right plants, the Ohio State University Extension offers extensive resources. The Native Plant Society of Northeastern Ohio is also a great resource for those interested in native plants and wildflowers.

Getting Started

To begin, choose a sunny spot in your yard and prepare the soil by removing existing grass and weeds. Sow the seeds in early spring, just before the last frost. Keep in mind that wildflowers can take a few months to establish, so patience is key. Once established, these gardens require minimal upkeep, but you’ll need to keep an eye on their growth to ensure they do not exceed the city’s height restrictions for grasses and weeds.

Incorporating Wildflower Gardens in Bedford

Incorporating wildflower gardens in Bedford’s front yards not only beautifies the neighborhood but also plays a crucial role in sustaining the local ecosystem. It’s a delightful way to contribute to environmental conservation right from your own home, while ensuring your garden stays in compliance with Bedford’s regulations.

The post Embracing Nature: Planting Wildflower Gardens in Bedford Front Yards This Spring first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Clean Up: Start by clearing your garden beds. Remove any dead plants, leaves, and other debris that accumulated over the winter. This not only tidies up your garden but also prevents the spread of pests and diseases.
2. Soil Preparation: Test your soil for pH and nutrient levels, as winter can alter its composition. Amend the soil with compost or other organic material to improve its structure and fertility. Well-prepared soil is crucial for healthy plant growth.
3. Pruning: Early March is a good time to prune fruit trees, bushes, and perennial plants before they begin to bud. This promotes healthy growth and fruit production.
4. Plan Your Plantings: Finalize what plants you will grow this season. Consider crop rotation in vegetable gardens to maintain soil health and reduce pest issues.
5. Start Seeds Indoors: For plants with a longer growing season, start seeds indoors. This gives them a head start before transplanting outdoors after the last frost.
6. Tool Maintenance: Inspect and clean your gardening tools and equipment. Sharp and clean tools make garden work more efficient and safer.
7. Pest and Weed Control: Apply organic pre-emergent herbicides to prevent weeds. Check for signs of pest activity early to manage them before they become a bigger problem.

By tackling these tasks in March, Bedford gardeners can ensure their gardens are primed for planting and poised for a burst of spring growth. This early preparation lays the foundation for a flourishing garden that will bring joy throughout the growing season.

The post March Gardening Prep: Kickstarting Your Spring Garden in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

March 3 | First Council Meeting of the Month

March 17| Second Council Meeting of the Month

Library Events

KIDS CAFÉ – AGES 18 & YOUNGER
Monday-Friday, 3:00PM – 4:00PM
Kids ages 18 and under can get a FREE lunch provided by the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, while supplies last.

STUDENT SUCCESS CENTER – GRADES K-8
Monday-Thursday (school days), 4:00PM – 6:30PM
Since 2002, our FREE Student Success Center program has helped thousands of students in grades K–8 improve their grades and subject comprehension. Students receive homework assistance from trained tutors in language arts, math, reading, science, and social studies.
MUST REGISTER

BABY CLUB – AGES BIRTH TO 35 MONTHS WITH CAREGIVER
Mondays, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 10:30AM
Join us for a five-week club for caregivers and children ages birth to 35 months. Connect with your kids and other families and get answers about your growing child. Siblings welcome.
MUST REGISTER

MUSIC & MOVEMENT STORYTIME
Tuesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25, 10:00AM
Join us for a fun, interactive storytime featuring music and movement.

FAMILY STORYTIME – ALL AGES WITH CAREGIVER
Tuesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25, 6:00PM
Join us for stories, songs, and fingerplays.

ENGINEERING HOUR – GRADES 1-5
Thursdays, March 6 & 20, 3:30PM
Bring your creativity and dexterity for an hour of building.

ART QUEST – GRADES 2-5
Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 28, 4:00PM
Join library staff as we learn about famous artists and try our best at replicating their style.

INTRODUCTION TO HAND SEWING – ADULTS
Saturday, March 8, 11:00AM
Local costume designer Jaclyn Renee Vogel will teach you basic hand-sewing techniques. Students will be provided with a needle, thread, and fabric. Instructions will be 1 hour, with an additional 30 minutes for extra practice.
MUST REGISTER

MAGIC TREE HOUSE MONDAYS – GRADES 2-4
Monday, March 10, 7:00PM
Join us as we explore Mary Pope Osborne’s classic series.
Books Discussed:

• March 10 – Dinosaurs Before Dark
• April 14 – The Knight at Dawn
• May 12 – Mummies in the Morning

MUST REGISTER

KINDERGARTEN COUNTDOWN – CHILDREN ENTERING KINDERGARTEN NEXT FALL
Wednesday, March 12, 10:30AM
Help your child build kindergarten readiness skills in a program aligned with Ohio’s Early Childhood Standards.
MUST REGISTER

ELLENWOOD BOOK DISCUSSION – ADULTS
Wednesday, March 12, 2:00PM
Ellenwood Community Center, 124 Ellenwood Ave, Bedford
March Book: The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
Copies available at Bedford Branch and Ellenwood Center one month before the discussion.

KIDS COOK! – GRADES 3-6
Thursday, March 13, 4:00PM
Expand your cooking skills with quick, simple, and delicious recipes.
Registration opens February 13, 2025, at 9:00 AM
MUST REGISTER (A Release and Hold Harmless form is required.)

SELF-CARE SATURDAY – GRADES 6-12
Saturday, March 15, 2:00PM
Ease your mind with calming activities, including art, yoga, writing, and more.
MUST REGISTER (A parent/guardian release form is required.)

BEESWAX CANDLES – ADULTS
Saturday, March 22, 2:00PM
Learn how to make rolled beeswax candles and celebrate the return of Spring with light.
MUST REGISTER

POKÉMON TRAINING CAMP – GRADES 3-6
Monday-Wednesday, March 24, 25, 26, 6:30PM
Learn how to play the world-famous Pokémon Trading Card Game. Train for the Bedford Branch Tournament #1 on Thursday, March 27.
MUST REGISTER

POKÉMON TOURNAMENT #1 – GRADES 3-6
Thursday, March 27, 2:00PM
Compete in a friendly Pokémon Trading Card Game tournament. Bring your own deck or use one of ours.
MUST REGISTER

AFRICAN AMERICAN AUTHORS BOOK GROUP – ADULTS
Thursday, March 27, 7:00PM
In-Person & Virtual
March Title: Sisters With A Side of Greens by Michelle Stimpson
MUST REGISTER

EXCEL BASICS ★
Friday, March 28, 10:00AM
This session introduces spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel. Topics include:

• Entering data
• Using autofill
• Performing calculations with formulas & functions

Earn a Northstar Digital Literacy Certificate upon successful assessment completion.
Prerequisite: Word Basics or prior Excel experience.
MUST REGISTER

The post Next Month in Bedford — March 2025 first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Seed Starting Preparation:

1. Gather Supplies: Collect seed trays or pots, high-quality seed starting mix, and seeds. Consider using a grow light and a heat mat to improve germination rates, particularly for plants like tomatoes and peppers that prefer warmth.
2. Plan Your Seeds: Determine what plants you want to grow, checking seed packets for the appropriate time to start each variety. Plants such as peppers and onions require a longer growth period before outdoor transplanting.
3. Sow Seeds: Follow the depth and spacing guidelines on the seed packets. Keep the soil moist and cover the containers with plastic wrap or a dome to maintain humidity until the seeds sprout.

Regrowing Kitchen Scraps Indoors:

1. Select Scraps: Use kitchen leftovers like the bottoms of green onions, bases of celery, and hearts of romaine lettuce. Place them in a shallow dish of water.
2. Provide Light and Water: Keep the scraps on a windowsill where they get plenty of light. Refresh the water every few days.
3. Transplant: After the scraps sprout roots and new growth, move them to pots with potting soil.

Forcing Bulbs Indoors:

1. Choose Suitable Bulbs: Select bulbs like amaryllis, paperwhites, or tulips that are specifically prepared for indoor forcing.
2. Planting: Plant the bulbs in pots with well-draining soil, leaving the tops exposed. Place them in a cool, dark area until roots develop, then move them to a bright spot.
3. Care and Bloom: Water sparingly until you see growth, then more regularly as the plant develops. Blooms typically appear in a few weeks, bringing a splash of color and fragrance indoors.

By incorporating these tasks into your February gardening routine in Bedford, you can enjoy the greenery indoors while preparing for a vibrant spring outdoors. Each activity not only enhances your living space but also keeps your gardening skills sharp during the winter months.

The post Indoor Gardening Delights for February in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Indoor Gardening Tasks:

Houseplant Care: With shorter days and less natural sunlight, ensure your houseplants receive adequate light. Rotate them regularly and consider using grow lights if necessary. Also, watch out for signs of overwatering, a common issue in winter.

Pest Prevention: Inspect your indoor plants for pests such as aphids and spider mites. Dry indoor air during winter often leads to increased pest activity. Treat infestations early with organic pest control methods.

Humidity Control: Use humidifiers or place water trays near heating systems to increase humidity levels around your plants, which prevents leaf tips from browning.

Outdoor Gardening Tasks:

Tool and Equipment Maintenance: Clean, sharpen, and repair garden tools and equipment. Organizing your garden shed can also make spring gardening more efficient and enjoyable.

Garden Planning: January is the perfect time to plan your garden layout and decide which seeds to order for the spring. Dreaming up new garden designs and browsing seed catalogs can be a wonderful way to spend winter evenings.

Wildlife Care: Keep bird feeders filled and provide water sources for wildlife. Birds can help control pests and add life to the winter garden.

While January may seem quiet for gardening in Bedford, it is a crucial month for indoor plant care and preparing for a successful spring season. By staying active with these tasks, gardeners can keep their green thumbs busy until the outdoor growing season resumes.

The post January Gardening: Nurturing Indoor Gardens and Planning for Spring in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

He was released from jail with significant mental health and drug issues with no support system just so that he might not get COVID. Instead the significant mental health and drug issues that were being treated at his prison were tossed aside and ignored so he could “survive” a pandemic that probably was never going to kill him.

So I really, really cannot express the disgust I feel for Jimmy Dimora receiving a commutation from President Biden because he was part of the same release program that my brother also “benefited” from.

Don’t get me wrong. My brother robbed 2 banks in Virginia. With a fake gun and a fedora, no less. You can look it up on the internet.

My brother committed very serious crimes. He also had very serious mental health and drug issues. It is not an excuse. My family was relieved when he went into the prison system. It was the closest we ever got to having him get the help he clearly needed. And then the Federal government released him from prison, 7 years into a 20 year sentence, with the misplaced goal to save his life from COVID. The Federal government ended up ending his life. His mental health and drug issues finally took him not long after his release.

So when I heard that Jimmy Dimora, the man who literally plundered and pillaged Southeast Cuyahoga County with his corruption, had his sentence commuted by President Biden because he had been released on the same program… I don’t have the proper, socially acceptable words to describe how I feel. Just know they involve many swear words and so much anger. 

Yes, my brother did horrible, horrible things. He terrified around 40 strangers at the banks involved. Absolutely horrifying that he did that to those people.

Jimmy Dimora’s culture of government corruption hurt TENS OF THOUSANDS of people. My community and my surrounding communities are still reeling from the effects of Jimmy Dimora’s corrupt dealings. Bedford, Bedford Heights, Oakwood Village, Maple Heights, Garfield Heights and well beyond are experiencing a desperate change in mobility that can be tied directly to Jimmy Dimora’s influence on corruption in the Southeast region.

So my question is, why was Jimmy Dimoria’s sentence commuted while my brother died? If my brother was alive today, would President Biden have commuted his sentence too? I know 1,500 commutations seems like a lot. But the US prison system currently has nearly 2 million people in it. 1,500 commutations is a tiny drop in the bucket in comparison. To make the math easier, that is about 30 people per state. Which means Dear Mister Dimora was one of only approximately 30 people in Ohio to be pardoned by Biden.

I highly doubt that if my brother was alive today, he would have benefited like Jimmy Dimora has benefited from President Biden blanket commutation. 

But I guess terrorizing 40 strangers (my brother) is a greater crime than decimating the the community and upward mobility of tens of thousands of his own neighbors and constituents (Jimmy Dimora). 

<sarcasm font> Thank you, President Biden, for once again showing us who you care about. Party loyalty is rewarded for the sake of moving the party’s message forward, even if the person receiving it is corrupt and hurt their entire community.  </sarcasm font>

My mentally ill brother obviously was not a real concern to the Biden Administration either during COVID or now. Forgiving party loyalists who hurt all of us with unadulterated corruption seems to be ok though. And that should be a concern for all of us.

The post President Biden’s Pardon Of Jimmy Dimora Is A Disgrace first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

It is not often you get to give a child in your life an experience that they will be able to brag about to their grandchildren.

Traveling circuses are a wonderful but dying breed. So it is a special treat that one of the last remaining traveling circuses in the U.S., the UniverSoul Circus, has come to Bedford to close out its 30th-anniversary tour with a spectacular holiday-themed production.

Known for its dazzling performances and cultural diversity, this circus aims to inspire children and unite families with its one-of-a-kind experience.

Among the cast is Zeke, the charismatic Ringmaster and an original member of the circus. He also happens to be a former resident of the Southeast area. Zeke has spent three decades captivating audiences while spreading a necessary message of empowerment.

Reflecting on the importance of the circus, Zeke shared, “Kids look out and see someone who looks just like them, doing fantastic feats, overcoming odds, traveling the world, and making a living at it. It shows them that anything they dream of, they can achieve.”

A Holiday Show for Your Whole Family

This holiday-themed, special-edition production adds a festive flair to the UniverSoul experience. From the warmth of the heated Big Top tent to the Christmas decorations and holiday spirit, the show offers wholesome family entertainment. “It’s about bringing the family together,” Zeke said. “We’re creating memories that last a lifetime.”

Audiences can expect jaw-dropping stunts, gravity-defying aerialists, stilt dancers, fire breathers, and more. Each act blends artistry and skill with a multicultural perspective, making the show both thrilling and meaningful.

The Performance Mishap

The circus recently faced concerns after a performer was injured during a show early in the run. However, Zeke reassured fans that safety is always a top priority. “Our performers are well-trained professionals, and we have strict safety precautions in place,” he said.

The injured performer made a full recovery and returned to the stage the next day, a testament to the resilience and dedication of the UniverSoul performers.

Accidents can and do happen in such thrilling acts, which only emphasizes how skilled and death-defying these acts are. There is a reason they absolutely do not recommend you try this at home.

Why Did UniverSoul Circus Come To Bedford?

The decision to come to Bedford was met with excitement from the community. A Bedford resident fondly recalled taking their children to the UniverSoul Circus years ago, thinking it would be their last chance for their children to see a traveling circus. “It’s amazing that they’ve come back,” they said, “and important that we have such a unique opportunity here in Bedford.”

For Zeke and the UniverSoul team, Bedford represents more than just another stop on the tour. The community’s appreciation for family-oriented entertainment aligns perfectly with the circus’s mission to inspire and uplift audiences.

Their mission of inspiration is woven into every performance. With acts from five continents and 15 unique performances, the UniverSoul Circus showcases talent and creativity from across the globe. Its combination of circus arts, theater, and music—spanning genres like R&B, hip-hop, jazz, gospel, and more—creates an electrifying atmosphere that appeals to all ages.

Plan Your Visit For A
Special Bedford Holiday Treat

The UniverSoul Circus is performing in Bedford through Sunday, Dec. 8, at 22777 Rockside Rd., Bedford, OH 44146, next to Zak Supercenter. Showtimes include evening performances during the week and multiple shows on the weekend. Tickets start at $25 and are available at Ticketmaster. Free parking is provided.

Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic of the UniverSoul Circus, where inspiration, joy, and family come together under the Big Top. For more details, visit www.universoulcircus.com.

The post The UniverSoul Circus Comes To Bedford: Inspiring Children and Bringing Holiday Magic first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Outdoor Gardening Tasks:

1. Tree and Shrub Protection: Wrap young trees and shrubs with burlap or tree wrap to protect them from the harsh winter winds and frost.
2. Final Clean-Up: Check the garden for any remaining debris or fallen leaves. Clearing your garden not only tidies it up but also minimizes habitats for pests and diseases over winter.
3. Tool Maintenance: Service your gardening tools. Clean, sharpen, and oil them before storing them away. This is also a good time to inventory your garden supplies and plan any purchases for the upcoming spring.

Indoor Gardening Tasks:

1. Houseplant Care: Monitor indoor plants for pests and diseases. The dry indoor air from heating can increase the likelihood of issues like spider mites.
2. Optimize Plant Environment: Ensure your plants are getting enough light, which may involve moving them closer to windows or using artificial lights. Also, consider rotating them regularly to promote even growth.
3. Humidity Management: Use humidifiers, misting, or pebble trays to increase the humidity around your houseplants, mimicking their natural humid environments.
4. Holiday Plants: Take care of holiday-specific plants such as poinsettias or Christmas cacti. These plants have particular light and water needs to keep them thriving through the season.

By focusing on these tasks, gardeners in Bedford can effectively manage their indoor plant oasis and protect their outdoor garden during the cold December weather. This dual approach helps ensure that both environments are well-maintained and ready for the eventual arrival of spring.

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The post December Gardening Essentials for Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

Outdoor Gardening Tasks:

1. Winter Protection: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of perennials, shrubs, and trees to provide insulation against freezing temperatures.
2. Planting Bulbs: If not already done in October, finish planting spring-flowering bulbs such as tulips and daffodils.
3. Garden Cleanup: Remove fallen leaves and debris from your garden beds, lawns, and ponds. This helps prevent the spread of fungal diseases and pests.
4. Tool Maintenance: Clean and store all gardening tools. Sharpen blades, oil moving parts, and repair any damaged tools to ensure they’re ready for spring.
5. Tree and Shrub Care: Prune dead or diseased branches from trees and shrubs to prevent damage from winter winds and weight from snowfall.

Indoor Gardening Tasks:

1. Houseplant Care: Check indoor plants for pests and diseases. Adjust their location to ensure they receive sufficient light during shorter days.
2. Humidity Control: Increase humidity levels around houseplants, as indoor heating can dry out the air. Use humidifiers or place water trays near heating sources.
3. Start Seeds: For gardeners looking to get a jump on the next growing season, start seeds for herbs and vegetables indoors. Use a grow light to simulate longer daylight conditions.

By addressing these tasks, gardeners in Bedford can protect their outdoor plants from the harsh winter ahead and keep their indoor gardens thriving. This dual approach ensures that both the interior and exterior of your home remain green sanctuaries, even as the colder months set in.

The post November Gardening Guide for Bedford: Preparing Indoors and Outdoors first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.