I am enraged that hate crimes against Asian Americans are increasing at a staggering rate. As Mayor of Beachwood, I stand with all of our residents in condemning the murders in Atlanta and the recent rise of attacks fueled by the rhetoric of nationalism and xenophobia. In the strongest terms, I denounce this violence and pledge to work against hate. Beachwood’s Asian-American residents support our city, our schools and our economy and our community is strengthened and enriched by their presence.

My office has received many calls from residents regarding the COVID-19 vaccination process. I would like to share our information to-date on the process.

All local vaccination efforts are being coordinated by the Cuyahoga County Board of Health (CCBH). The City of Beachwood is not authorized to provide vaccinations.

Today, Governor DeWine announced that Ohio will begin vaccinating elderly members of the general public on a new timetable:

• Week of January 19: Ohioans age 80 and older
• Week of January 25: Ohioans age 75 and older AND people with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset medical disorders
• Week of February 1: Ohioans age 70 and older
• Week of February 8: Ohioans age 65 and older

Specific distribution sites and registration processes have not yet been announced for these vaccinations. According to Gov. DeWine’s statement today, the State of Ohio will be launching an online tool on coronavirus.ohio.gov where individuals can see who is distributing vaccinations in their counties to what eligible group. As more vaccinations are available, more providers will be added.

The federal government has directed each state to determine its own vaccination-priority process. In addition to the new timetable above, the State of Ohio has developed a phased vaccination approach.

PHASE 1A

Based on information from the CCBH, the first phase of vaccinations is Phase 1A, which includes about 15,000 Cuyahoga County residents. Included in Phase 1A are:

• EMS responders
• Healthcare workers caring for COVID-19 patients
• Residents and staff of nursing homes and assisted-living facilities

Vaccination of Phase 1A nursing-home residents and employees is being processed under an agreement between the State of Ohio and CVS and Walgreens. These pharmacies will send their personnel to nursing homes to provide vaccinations.

It is my understanding that vaccinations have begun in several facilities on the Menorah Park campus and will continue until all facilities on the campus are vaccinated.

If you believe you qualify for Phase 1A, you may register for future clinics at the CCBH website: www.ccbh.net/vax.

CCBH leadership believes that based upon current vaccine supplies and staff availability, Phase 1A should be fully vaccinated by some time in February.

PHASE 1B

Phase 1B includes more than 230,000 Cuyahoga County residents. Included in Phase 1B are:

• People age 65 and older
• People with severe congenital, developmental or early onset medical disorders
• Adults who work in schools

At this time, there is no vaccination registration available for Phase 1B individuals. As soon as we are made aware of 1B or other phase registrations, the City of Beachwood will immediately notify residents through the BEACHWOOD eLIST, social media, and the Beachwood Buzz. If you haven’t registered for email or text updates, please sign up for the BEACHWOOD eLIST today.

FUTURE PHASES

I have been in contact with the CCBH and other State of Ohio agencies. At this time, the process of where and when further vaccines will be distributed to members of the general public has not been clearly outlined. The CCBH is working diligently to obtain additional vaccine through the state government and additional sites and personnel.

CORONAVIRUS SCAMS

Over the next months, we anticipate numerous scams and fraudulent efforts against residents. Please educate yourself and be vigilant! Only imposters/scammers will demand that you pay with money wires, e-currencies/Bitcoin, or retail gift cards. Watch out for scams disguised as offers to help you get COVID-19 tests, cures or vaccines. And never pay or reveal private info – such as your Social Security or bank-account numbers) to someone who contacts you; no government agency will ever ask you for this information.

NOBODY can move you up in the line so you get a vaccine more quickly. Anyone who says they can is a scammer.

If you receive a suspicious phone call or email, please report it to my office at 216-292-1901.

AS ALWAYS…

Maintain social distance of 6 feet or more. Wash your hands frequently with lots of soap and hot water. Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Get adequate sleep and nutrition.

Stay healthy, Beachwood.