Cleveland Museum of Natural History archaeologist Elizabeth Sawchuk was recently part of the research team that found the earliest evidence of cremation in Africa—a 9,500-year-old pyre in northern Malawi, where hunter-gatherers cremated a small adult woman. The discovery challenges previous assumptions about ancient African foragers' social behaviors and shows the sophisticated burial practices of early human societies.

The Trump administration’s December suspension of millions in funding for Ohio manufacturing support programs has caused uncertainty and layoffs, including 37 positions at MAGNET. Despite broad government and industry calls to restore the funds, the outlook remains unclear.

A recent survey conducted by MAGNET reveals that tariffs are creating both opportunities and challenges for Ohio manufacturers, with about one-third of respondents reporting impacts on sales. While some companies benefit from reshoring efforts, losses are often cutting deeper than gains.

Cuyahoga Arts & Culture in November approved $12.9 million in grants to more than 300 organizations for 2026, supporting both major cultural institutions and smaller nonprofits across Northeast Ohio. FreshWater looks at three diverse initiatives that demonstrate how expanded arts funding from the recent cigarette tax increase is strengthening Cleveland's creative economy and preserving important cultural legacies.

MAGNET and other Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs) are facing an abrupt funding suspension, threatening 90 jobs and support for nearly 14,000 manufacturers statewide. The move eliminates $5.9 million in funding for MAGNET alone, with several smaller centers expected to close immediately.

The Manufacturing Sector Partnership )MSP) in Cuyahoga County has created 3,000 jobs with average annual salaries of $38,000 since its 2019 launch—generating more than $2 million in incremental tax revenue while addressing the manufacturing workforce shortage. Through MAGNET programs like ACCESS and Early College Early Career, the partnership connects underserved populations with attractive manufacturing careers.

You're never too old, or too young, to enjoy and participate in arts and culture program, says Cuyahoga Arts & Culture executive director Jill Paulsen. Beck Center for the Arts, North Coast Men's Chorus, and Lake Erie Nature & Science Center use CAC grants to enrich lives across generations with creative opportunities for all ages, from toddlers to seniors.

Sustainability is growing in importance in the manufacturing industry, with companies of all sizes integrating eco-friendly practices into their operations. Sustainable practices can reduce waste and energy consumption, lower costs, incorporate recycled materials, and improve public trust.

This summer, local musicians have enriched Northeast Ohio neighborhoods with performances at unconventional venues—from grocery stores to prisons, to residential front porches. Funded by Cuyahoga Arts & Culture, these initiatives make live music more accessible to diverse populations and create harmony throughout the region.

Startups face many challenges in the current economic climate, particularly companies in the manufacturing sector. Applications are open for MAGNET's 2025 Mspire Pitch Competition, which supports manufacturing innovation through funding, exposure, and guidance to entrepreneurs—with a focus on fostering physical product development.