Good morning, Portage County. Move over, American Idol - the RubberDucks are staging their own talent search at Canal Park. The Akron baseball team is hunting for vocal virtuosos to belt out the National Anthem during their 2025 season, though performers might want to keep a closer eye on their rides than Browns QB Jameis Winston, whose Escalade recently vanished during what should have been a routine cross-country transport.
Meanwhile, even healthcare giants aren't immune to economic headwinds. The Cleveland Clinic's modest 1.7% profit margin might not be turning heads on Wall Street, but with ambitious plans for new neurological and sports medicine facilities in the works, it's clear they're playing the long game. Sometimes the path to growth requires a few strategic pit stops along the way.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
0%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🎤 Akron baseball team launches virtual talent search for anthem singers. The Akron RubberDucks, Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, are seeking performers to sing the National Anthem during their 2025 season at Canal Park. Interested singers and musicians must submit digital video auditions by February 21st, with performances limited to two minutes. The team welcomes solo performers, duets, and small groups of up to five members, requiring clear horizontal footage and quality audio. Opening day is set for April 8th against the Altoona Curve.
🚗 NFL quarterback's Escalade stolen during cross-country transport attempt. Browns QB Jameis Winston's 2023 Cadillac was swiped in Detroit after a local towing company dropped it off for the next leg of its California-bound journey. The theft, which occurred on January 21, prompted Hunting Valley police to enter the vehicle into national crime databases. Detroit's stolen car unit is leading the investigation, with Hunting Valley police providing assistance since the transport originated in their jurisdiction. The case remains in its early stages as authorities work to recover the luxury SUV.
💰 Cleveland Clinic's profits disappoint despite $16 billion in revenue. The renowned healthcare system achieved only a 1.7% profit margin in 2024, falling short of its 2.7% target and well below pre-pandemic levels of 3-5%. CEO Tom Mihaljevic cited increased charity care costs, reduced drug discounts, and rising malpractice insurance as key challenges. Despite financial pressures, the Clinic announced ambitious expansion plans, including a new Neurological Institute and sports medicine center. After cutting 114 administrative positions this month, no additional layoffs are expected in 2025.
🏒 Hockey Scoreboard
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Roosevelt (18-8) | ||
@ Solon | W 10-3 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Spacious lot for new home: This 8.975-acre lot in Rootstown, priced at $199,900, features approximately 300 feet of frontage on Tallmadge Road. Perfect for a new home or additional farmland, though it requires an approved septic system and well before building.
Elegant home with spectacular views: Nestled in Barrington’s gated community, this stunning custom-designed home priced at $1,350,000 offers breathtaking views of the 17th Fairway, luxurious spaces, and exceptional outdoor amenities perfect for entertaining. Features include a gourmet kitchen, expansive Great Room, and a serene owners suite, making it an ideal blend of elegance and comfort.
Updated family haven with charm: This family-sized home, priced at $215,000, features recent updates including a new roof, A/C, and basement waterproofing. Enjoy a cozy family room with a fireplace, an eat-in kitchen with modern appliances, and a private backyard deck.