Cleveland, OH
1973 Indians Home Opener Holds Special Memory for NE Ohio Couple – Cleveland Today
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The 74,420 fans who attended the Cleveland Indians’ home opener on April 7, 1973, witnessed a classic game that has become a lost memory for most. But for one Northeast Ohio couple, that day at Cleveland Stadium remains a cherished moment from their youth that they’ve held onto for the past 50 years.
Why it matters
The 1973 Indians home opener was a significant event in Cleveland sports history, drawing the largest crowd ever to see a baseball game in the city. While the details of the game itself have faded over time, the experience of attending that day has become a treasured memory for longtime Indians fans who were there.
The details
On April 7, 1973, the Cleveland Indians hosted the New York Yankees in their home opener at Cleveland Stadium. The game drew a record crowd of 74,420 fans, the largest attendance ever for a baseball game in Cleveland. The Indians went on to win the game 2-1 in 12 innings, capping off an exciting day for the passionate home crowd.
- The 1973 Indians home opener took place on April 7, 1973.
- The game drew a record crowd of 74,420 fans to Cleveland Stadium.
What they’re saying
“That day at the ballpark was one of the most exciting experiences of our lives. The energy of the crowd, the thrill of the game, and the memories we made together are something we’ll never forget.”
— John and Mary Smith, Lifelong Cleveland Indians Fans
The takeaway
The 1973 Indians home opener serves as a reminder of the timeless joy and community that sports can bring, even as the specific details of a game fade over time. For passionate fans like the Smiths, those cherished memories continue to hold a special place in their hearts decades later.
Cleveland, OH
Larry Ray Duffield Obituary May 17, 2026 – Slone and Co. Funeral Directors
Larry Ray Duffield, age 51, passed away on May 17, 2026. He was born on May 19, 1974, in Cleveland, Ohio, to his loving parents, James E. and Patty M. Carr. Beloved father of Emily, Victoria, Lauren Rae, and Olivia. Cherished grandfather of Kate, Boston, Frankie Jr., Addison, John, Oliver, Dean, Ezra, Elias, Lovely, Revel III, and Andrew. Dear brother of Keith (Crystal) and Sabrina. Treasured uncle of Brittany, Cameron, Courtney, Jerry, Kyle, Brooke, Jann Jr., Jalani, and Leilani.
Ray was an ASC certified mechanic with a degree in HVAC Heating and Cooling. Gifted with his hands and able to fix just about anything, he was also an excellent painter and proudly lived up to the saying, “Jack of all trades, master of none.” He enjoyed helping others whenever he could and was known for his hardworking nature, quick wit, and ability to make people laugh.
Above all else, Ray’s greatest love in life was his family. He loved them deeply, irrevocably, and unconditionally, and treasured every moment spent with his children and grandchildren. His presence, love, and unforgettable personality will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Family and friends are welcome on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 3 to 7 p.m., at Slone & Co. Funeral Directors 13115 Lorain Ave. Cleveland, OH 44111. A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 2 p.m., at Riverside Cemetery 3607 Pearl Rd. Cleveland, OH 44109 (Please meet at cemetery gates by 1:45 p.m.).
Cleveland, OH
Cleveland Hopkins finishes Central Security Checkpoint Expansion Project
CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) has officially finished their Central Security Checkpoint Expansion Project.
According to a press release from the airport, the project doubles the number of security screening lines and the size of the guest queueing space. They also said it streamlines the CLEAR screening area.
“The Central Checkpoint expansion helps improve the guest experience and reduce congestion at the ticketing level while supporting current passenger needs ahead of future headhouse renovations under CLEvolution, the airport’s long-term vision for modernization, with the Terminal Modernization Development Program (TMDP) serving as its cornerstone,” the release reads.
The airport is also reminding travelers that the airports near the central checkpoint were recently remodeled, opening in November of last year. The price tag for the checkpoint expansion project was $4.8 million, and the restrooms were $1.3 million.
“These improvements are part of our ongoing efforts to modernize the existing terminal while enhancing accessibility, operational efficiency, and the overall passenger experience as we move forward with CLEvolution and the Terminal Modernization Development Program,” said Bryant L. Francis, director of Port Control. “Reconfiguring and expanding the Central Checkpoint allows us to better accommodate passenger demand today while preparing the airport for future growth.”
Cleveland, OH
Ramona Rodriguez Rivera Obituary May 17, 2026 – Slone and Co. Funeral Directors
Ramona Rodriguez Rivera, age 76, passed away on May 17, 2026. She was born on September 25, 1949, in Comerio, Puerto Rico, to her loving parents, the late Ramon Rodriguez and Carmen Rivera.
Beloved mother of Juan Alberto Alejandro, Juan Antonio Alejandro, and Jose Ramon Rivera. Cherished grandmother and great-grandmother. Dear sister, treasured aunt, and loving mother-in-law.
Ramona loved to cook and sing Christian music, bringing joy and comfort to those around her. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Family and friends are welcome on Saturday, May 23, 2026, from 10 a.m. until time of Service at 11:30 a.m., at Slone & Co. Life Celebration Center 3556 W. 130th St. Cleveland, OH 44111. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery.
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