Good morning, Dev Test County. Since 1972, a remarkable lifeline has been quietly operating around the clock in our community, transforming thousands of lives each year. The Victim Assistance Program stands as a powerful testament to what happens when compassion meets action, with dedicated advocates rushing to crime scenes and traumatic events, armed with everything from emergency housing solutions to that crucial shoulder to lean on.
Meanwhile, history is unfolding in Windham, where Mayor Lawrence "Mac" Cunningham is breaking barriers as Portage County's first Black mayor and preparing to headline this year's MLK Prayer Breakfast. As we celebrate these steps forward, the halls of University of Akron are buzzing with heated debates about leadership and priorities, reminding us that progress often comes with its share of growing pains.
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81% ☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🤝 Akron's 24/7 lifeline helps trauma victims rebuild shattered lives. The Victim Assistance Program, operating since 1972, provides crucial support through a network of advocates who respond directly to crime scenes and traumatic events in Summit County. Working closely with police and courts, the program offers everything from emotional support and therapy to financial assistance and emergency housing for roughly 5,000 people annually. Their victim emergency fund provides up to $5,000 for funeral costs, while their recently established Gun Violence Response Fund offers additional support for shooting victims. For one survivor named Kara, the program became her pathway to escape an abusive relationship, providing the emotional and practical support she needed to start fresh.
✊ Historic first: Windham's Mayor leads MLK Prayer Breakfast in Portage County. The Portage County NAACP will host its annual celebration on January 18 at Kent United Church of Christ, featuring Lawrence "Mac" Cunningham as keynote speaker. Cunningham made history this year as the first Black mayor ever elected in Portage County. The event, themed "Protect Our 2025," will run from 10 AM to noon with doors opening at 9:30 AM. Community members can secure their spots by purchasing $20 tickets online through the NAACP website or by mailing checks to the organization's office.
💰 University president faces backlash over cuts while earning $484,000 salary. Critics are challenging University of Akron's President RJ Nemer's proposed staff and program cuts while he maintains substantial personal benefits, including a $50,000 annual retirement contribution. A letter writer points out that no UA president has ever offered to reduce their compensation package to help offset the university's $27 million deficit. The controversy is amplified by concerns that Nemer lacks an education background, with critics arguing that hiring a non-educator to run a university may be counterproductive. Faculty fear these cuts could trigger an exodus of tenured professors, potentially worsening the institution's challenges rather than solving them.
🏒 Hockey Scoreboard
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 Aurora Greenmen | ||
| vs Kenston | L 7-2 | |
| vs Canfield | L 7-2 |
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Aurora Greenmen | ||
| vs Revere | L 53-48 | |
 Streetsboro Rockets | ||
| vs Chagrin Falls | W 47-45 | |
 Tallmadge Blue Devils | ||
| vs Barberton | W 54-45 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals |
| PRESENTED BY Amy Jackson, CENTURY 21 |
Investment opportunity in growing area
This foreclosure property is being offered through Auction.com, presenting a fantastic investment opportunity in an up-and-coming neighborhood. Interested buyers can save the listing to receive important updates regarding the auction date and potential bid amounts.
Spacious home with modern updates
Step into your new home in the heart of Ravenna for $290,000, where you'll find a spacious six-bedroom residence boasting a massive kitchen perfect for culinary adventures and large living and dining rooms ideal for entertaining. With modern updates like a new roof, siding, and a one-year home warranty, this property combines contemporary conveniences with timeless charm—all nestled on nearly an acre of land right in the city.
Lakefront gem with renovation potential
This charming lakefront property is listed at $409,900 and offers 1.33 acres with stunning views of Berlin Lake. The property features a 2-bedroom, 1-bath ranch home that could use some TLC, or you could seize the opportunity to construct your dream home on approximately 150 feet of beautiful lake frontage.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb |
| PRESENTED BY Northbend Church |
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
-1 Thessalonians 5:11