Good morning, Portage County. Remember that abandoned highway that sliced through Akron's heart like a concrete canyon? In a plot twist worthy of an urban planning thriller, it's about to get a second act. Mayor Malik has partnered with design wizards Sasaki to reimagine the Inner Belt, armed with $10 million in federal funding and a promise to let residents write the next chapter of this asphalt saga.
Meanwhile, 2025 is shaping up to be quite the year of transformation around here. Lakemore residents are bracing for a water bill shake-up, while the University of Akron's welcoming its 19th president with the enthusiasm of a Browns fan on draft day - speaking of which, UA's new partnership with Cleveland's beloved team feels like a match made in Ohio heaven.
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80% ☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏗️ Akron seeks community input to reimagine abandoned Inner Belt highway. The city has scheduled a January 8th workshop at Ed Davis Community Center to gather resident feedback on transforming the decommissioned roadway. Mayor Shammas Malik partnered with nationally recognized design firm Sasaki, securing a potential $10 million in federal funding for the project. The initiative, aimed at reconnecting communities divided by the original highway construction, will continue gathering public input through fall 2025. The master plan promises to prioritize voices of those most impacted by the Innerbelt's original construction, with no final decisions made until community engagement is complete.
💧 Lakemore residents face higher water bills starting April 2025. The Village Council approved new quarterly base rates of $55.90 for in-village residents and $78.26 for those outside village limits, covering the first 1,000 gallons of usage. Additional water consumption will cost $4 per 1,000 gallons for village residents and $5.08 for outside users, with rates set to increase by 20 cents annually. The changes come as part of the village's $5.7 million budget for 2025, which includes significant allocations for police ($750,298), fire ($186,600), and water expenses ($567,019). The Council states these increases are necessary to cover operating expenses, debt obligations, and maintain capital reserves.
🎓 University of Akron welcomes new president amid transformative year of changes. Alumni R.J. Nemer took the helm as UA's 19th president in May 2024, pledging to strengthen student recruitment and retention while fostering a more collaborative campus culture. The university secured a significant $7.1 million portion of federal funding for sustainable polymer research as part of a larger $51 million Tech Hub investment. In a major sports partnership, UA became the official university of the Cleveland Browns. Looking ahead to 2025, UA faculty predict continued advancement in AI applications, growing acceptance of mental health services, and breakthrough developments in sustainable polymers.
🏀 Basketball Schedule Slam (Girls)
| Team | Opponent | Date/Time |
|---|---|---|
 Crestwood Red Devils | ||
| vs Rootstown | 1/4 @ 12:30pm | |
| @ Wickliffe | 1/8 @ 6:45pm | |
 Field Falcons | ||
| vs Streetsboro | 1/3 @ 7:00pm | |
| @ Independence | 1/6 @ 6:15pm | |
 Garfield G-Men | ||
| vs LaBrae | 1/3 @ 6:15pm | |
| vs Newton Falls | 1/7 @ 7:00pm | |
 Rootstown Rovers | ||
| @ Crestwood | 1/4 @ 12:30pm | |
| vs John F. Kennedy Catholic | 1/8 @ 7:00pm | |
 Southeast Pirates | ||
| vs Jackson-Milton | 1/3 @ 5:30pm | |
| vs Brookfield | 1/7 @ 6:00pm | |
 Windham Bombers | ||
| @ Mogadore | 1/4 @ 12:30pm | |
| vs Harding | 1/9 @ 5:30pm |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Tranquil country retreat with views
Nestled on a tranquil 5.6-acre lot, this all-brick raised ranch, listed at $479,900, features a contemporary chalet design with stunning panoramic views from its expansive windows. Enjoy the open concept living area, complete with a gas fireplace and stylish cherry kitchen, as well as a spacious walk-out lower level and a remarkable 1,596 sq. ft. garage perfect for all your recreational needs, making this property a serene country retreat just minutes from shopping and dining options.
Light-filled home with fenced yard
1485 Evergreen Dr in Streetsboro, OH is a charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home currently listed at $229,900. This well-kept property features a spacious, light-filled living room, a kitchen with stainless steel appliances, and a fenced backyard ideal for outdoor gatherings, all conveniently located near schools, parks, and shopping. Recent updates make it truly move-in ready.
Remodeled farmhouse on 10 acres
This beautifully remodeled four-bedroom, two-bath farmhouse, listed at $499,000, sits on an expansive 10-acre property that seamlessly blends charm with modern living. Featuring a brand-new heated garage and a spacious pole barn, this home offers ample opportunities for storage, hobbies, or farming while enjoying the unique serenity of rural life.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Explore the potential of a high-yield savings account to maximize your interest earnings; with interest rates often fluctuating, this option can help your savings grow faster while keeping your money safe.
🙏 In Remembrance
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🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him.
-Jeremiah 17:7