Spring brings renewed energy to Hillcrest area

Community columnist Maria Shine Stewart shares signs of the season and ways to get involved locally

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:03pm

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A high-contrast, silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating grid of a single springtime object, such as a blooming flower or bird, rendered in a bold, neon color palette with heavy black outlines, conveying the energy and optimism of the changing seasons.Vibrant, repeating patterns of spring's natural beauty capture the renewal and resilience of the Hillcrest community.Mayfield Heights Today

In her weekly community column, Maria Shine Stewart describes the sights, sounds, and renewed energy of spring in the Hillcrest area of South Euclid, Ohio. She encourages residents to get involved with local organizations and community events, including the annual Yom HaShoah commemoration hosted by the Kol Israel Foundation and the Jewish Federation of Cleveland.

Why it matters

Stewart's column highlights the seasonal changes and community engagement opportunities that help bring the Hillcrest area to life in the springtime. By sharing her personal observations and calls to action, she aims to foster a greater sense of community spirit and civic participation among local residents.

The details

Stewart's column details the various signs of spring she has observed, from daffodils and birds to hawks and herons. She notes how the changing seasons can stir up both turbulence and resilience, and encourages readers to get involved with local organizations like the Friends of Euclid Creek and their city government meetings to stay informed and make a difference.

  • The annual Yom HaShoah v'Hagvurah commemoration will be held on April 13, 2026 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
  • Parents can register their children for the March of Generations at the Yom HaShoah event.

The players

Kol Israel Foundation

A foundation founded in 1959 by Holocaust survivors who settled in Cleveland, now run by their direct descendants, that promotes resilience, remembrance and Holocaust education.

Jewish Federation of Cleveland

An organization that has provided relief and support for the Jewish community in Cleveland since 1903, focusing on the well-being of the entire Jewish community.

Erica Hirsh

The co-chair of the Yom HaShoah commemoration, and a grandchild of Holocaust survivors.

Jordan Walman

The co-chair of the Yom HaShoah commemoration, and a grandchild of Holocaust survivors.

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What they’re saying

“While the Shoah was a rupture that inflicted unimaginable trauma and loss, its legacy also includes powerful stories of resistance, resilience and rebuilding.”

— Erica Hirsh, Yom HaShoah co-chair

“By recognizing both the enduring wounds and the extraordinary capacity for renewal, we also reaffirm our shared responsibility to carry these lessons forward with intention, courage and hope.”

— Jordan Walman, Yom HaShoah co-chair

What’s next

Parents may register their youngsters for the March of Generations at the Yom HaShoah event by visiting the registration link provided in the article.

The takeaway

Stewart's column encourages Hillcrest area residents to embrace the renewal and resilience of spring by getting involved in their local community, whether through organizations like the Friends of Euclid Creek, attending city government meetings, or participating in the annual Yom HaShoah commemoration that honors the legacy of the Holocaust.