Cleveland, OH
Cleveland International Film Festival Announces 50th Anniversary and Short Film Retrospective
CLEVELAND, OH — The Cleveland International Film Festival is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of bringing world-class cinema to Northeast Ohio. Known as one of the largest Academy-qualifying festivals in the country, the event officially kicks off its main slate April 9. Ahead of the grand opening, the festival’s programming team is launching a deep dive into its own history with a special retrospective series that starts this month.
Running from Feb. 17 through April 4, the 7×7+1=CIFF50 program offers a curated look at the festival’s most impactful work. The series consists of seven distinct programs, each featuring seven award-winning short films selected from the CIFF archives. To bridge the gap between the past and the present, each screening also includes a brand-new bonus short film produced specifically for the 50th season. Tickets for these retrospective showings are currently available for $15.
The festival has evolved significantly since its inception, moving its primary operations to the downtown theater district at Playhouse Square to accommodate a growing audience that now exceeds 30,000 people annually. It is a massive logistical undertaking that relies on hundreds of local volunteers and a dedicated membership base to sustain its craft and educational missions. According to the Cleveland International Film Festival organizers, the event’s status as an Academy-qualifying festival means winners in certain categories can become eligible for Oscar consideration, which often attracts high-profile talent and global creators to the city.
Members of the festival can purchase their tickets for the April screenings immediately. For those who do not hold a membership, general public sales are set to open March 20. The organization continues to offer various membership tiers that provide early access to tickets, exclusive filmmaker events, and special screenings throughout the year. The full schedule for the 50th anniversary season includes feature-length films, short film blocks, and interactive panels with creators from around the world. Residents interested in the 7×7 retrospective or looking to join the membership program before the March public sale can find more details and purchase tickets at www.clevelandfilm.org.
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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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