Now we finally know why ODOT opposes efforts to create a bike/pedestrian path on their proposed $450 million innerbelt bridge.  In their mind, it was all settled years before the public starting to convey their desires, long before ODOT solicited public input for their Environmental Impact Statement at the Greek Orthodox Church, long before the public hearings, way, way long before the federal government's Record of Decision.  All of that was just for show.  To ODOT's way of thinking, it was already settled. … [read more]

There is an effort to get a bike and pedestrian lane added to the proposed I-90 innerbelt bridge, offering a dramatic, beautiful, healthy and practical connection to walk or ride downtown.  Residents or visitors could connect to the towpath trail to Akron, Tremont or downtown by the Gateway sports facilities.   That’s great, but perhaps th … [read more]

It's been well-researched that many low birth-weight children have functional disabilities, but what is the impact on the mothers caring for these children? Research shows that mothers giving birth and caring for low birthweight babies face higher levels of psychological distress, including depression and anxiety, particularly for the parents of children age three or younger.  Research indicates that giving birth to low birthweight children impact the mother in a number of important ways: … [read more]

Depression among mothers is still one of the most common, but unrecognized, undiagnosed and untreated complications of pregnancy, with 10-20% of women experiencing depression during pregnancy or in the first twelve months following pregnancy.  The rate for low-income or minority women may reach 40%.  The healthy development of a child can be significantly impacted by maternal depression.  At young ages, depression among mothers is associated with a child's lower level of activity and fussiness, as well as problems with social interactions and greater … [read more]