"From Tragedy Beautiful Things Can Grow"

by Yazmin Maldonado

Uplifting stories have been few and far between in 2020. The climate of the country and of the world over has left many of us feeling broken and defeated. Those from Lorain may resonate with these feelings, yet one thing we have learned through our trials is hard times make for a stronger us. Lorain resident and President of the Lorain County Urban League Guild, Sylvia Duvall, understands all too well how from tragedy beautiful things can grow.

Sylvia grew up in Sandusky, Ohio, and after graduating from Bowling Green State University, went on to teach in the Lorain City School District for 33 years. Currently, the First Vice President of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Sylvia’s accolades and contributions to the community speak highly to how she has lived her life. Those who know her have a deep respect for the causes she fights for and are in awe of her ability to accomplish a goal.

Recently honored as a Hometown Hero, Sylvia’s dedication to the community continues to enhance the beauty and strength of Lorain. Endless accounts can be told of Sylvia’s service. Her devotion to the black community and the city of Lorain is evident through her work. Yet, her most heartbreaking moment as a mother is what gave way to her most heartfelt thank you to the city of Lorain.

In 2016, Sylvia’s son, Kerry Hathorn, was struck by a car and killed while jogging. Kerry was training for the New York City Marathon only a few short weeks away. Similar to his mother he was devoted to the betterment of the community around him and was known by many as a mentor, a humanitarian, and a teacher. As intelligent as he was charitable and kind, the world lost a great man in Kerry. The community felt Sylvia’s pain.

Steel is the strongest alloy known to man. Developed from iron, steel is known for its strength and resilient properties. It can weather the strongest storm and be rebuilt without any loss in quality. Although Lorain was given the nickname the “Steel City” from the industry that once heavily supported and nourished our area, what most of us have come to see is that as a community we share that same resilient attribute as steel.

But as strong as we are, we have demonstrated on many occasions that we are equally caring and giving. During the tragic moments that occurred following the passing of her son, Sylvia gained an outpouring of support from the city she so graciously dedicated her time and efforts. To honor Kerry’s life, The Kerry Hathorn Project was created. The funds donated would be reinvested into the community and used towards the beautification of downtown Lorain.

― Charles Montgomery, "Happy City: Transforming Our Lives Through Urban Design"

The first investment was three self-watering planters across from Lorain City Hall. As years passed, they received more funding and were able to add three more planters at Lorain’s observation deck. A conversation with Joyce Ferlic Arredondo, of Main Street Lorain, confirmed the beautification of Lorain was a common goal. Sylvia, The National Council of Negro Women, and the Design Committee of Main Street Lorain would all combine resources for one intended purpose: use urban design to serve the people. Today, as you drive down Broadway Avenue in our downtown, a total of twelve planters can be seen on display on both sides of the street.

Lorain Proud had a small hand in helping Sylvia and Co., Main Street Lorain, and The City of Lorain Public Property Department, under Director Lori Garcia, in their beautification project. By donating a small portion of funds, all involved were able to see the project come to life.

Our goal as an organization is to empower people to do good in the community, help to fill their needs, and showcase the good work happening around Lorain. If you would like to join the Beautification of Lorain movement, you may contact Sylvia by phone at (440) 670-6027. By helping to water the plants or donate money and time, the flower pots will remain a staple in the community and will continue to grow. The challenge ahead is to build upon the foundation laid for us, recognize our ownership in the community, and pursue new ways to serve. We’ve never had a better chance than now.

Thank you, Sylvia, for dedicating a piece of your heart. May we keep the memory of Kerry forever beautiful.

Special thanks to the following people and groups for their volunteer work:

The Main Street Lorain Design Committee:

VP, Christopher Cocco

Joyce Ferlic Arredondo

Pat Morrisson

The Rotary Club of Lorain

Lori Garcia, City of Lorain

Dee Baker, Lorain County Urban League Guild

Mary Zelek, Zelek Flowers

Terry Callahan

Joan Reidy

Barbara Williams