Portage County • January 22, 2025
Good morning, Portage County. In a time when canned tuna becomes a shared meal between human and feline, our community's heart shows through in remarkable ways. The Emergency Assistance Center's partnership with the Humane Society isn't just about pet food - it's a testament to our understanding that sometimes a furry friend is the only family someone has, delivering over 50,000 pounds of hope to pet owners in need last year.
Speaking of community support, Cleveland Heights is navigating its own challenges as Rodney Hairston steps up to the financial helm amid budget tensions. Meanwhile, Akron residents are preparing for a different kind of community dialogue, as their January 28th meeting with police auditor Anthony Finnell promises to strengthen the bridges between law enforcement and local voices.
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💰 Cleveland Heights inches closer to filling crucial finance position. Mayor Khalil Seren has nominated Rodney Hairston to lead the city's finance department after the previous acting director resigned in November. The nomination comes during a period of financial tension, as City Council recently rejected Seren's full-year budget with a 6-1 vote. The council did approve a temporary $30 million appropriations package to fund the city through early 2025. A final decision on Hairston's appointment is expected at Tuesday's council meeting.
🐱 Woman feeds herself tuna she hates just to keep her cat fed. This heartbreaking situation prompted The Emergency Assistance Center (TEAC) in Northfield to partner with the Humane Society of Summit County to provide dedicated pet food assistance. The humane society donated over 50,000 pounds of pet food last year to help struggling families keep their furry companions fed. The program now offers dog food, cat food, kitty litter, and even collars and leashes to pet owners in need. For many clients, especially elderly and homeless individuals, these pets provide crucial emotional support and companionship, making this service a lifeline for both animals and their humans.
👮 Akron residents to meet with police watchdog in community dialogue. Ward 4 Councilwoman Jan Davis is organizing a public meeting with independent police auditor Anthony Finnell at St. Sebastian Church on January 28th. The evening session, scheduled from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, will take place in Zwisler Hall on Mull Avenue. This community gathering represents an important opportunity for local residents to engage directly with the official responsible for police oversight. The meeting reflects ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and communication between law enforcement and the Akron community.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Garfield (6-7) | ||
@ Champion | W 46-25 | |
Southeast (10-6) | ||
@ Crestview | L 71-35 |

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Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
-Proverbs 3:5-6