Portage County • February 7, 2025
Good morning, Portage County. In a poignant reminder that life's most significant moments often unfold in our community's sacred spaces, Ravenna's First Congregational Church is temporarily transforming Chestnut Street this Saturday. As one family bids farewell to a loved one, the simple act of reserving street parking becomes a quiet gesture of neighborly respect – the kind of small-town courtesy that still defines who we are.
Meanwhile, the grandeur of tradition sparkles on at the 121st Akron Children's Charity Ball, where eighteen young women are proving that the next generation of community leaders is already rising to the occasion. Their dedication to service shines as bright as the Doubletree's chandeliers, offering a welcome counterpoint to sobering headlines about justice and accountability in our corner of Ohio.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|

🅿️ Ravenna church blocks street parking for Saturday funeral service. The First Congregational Church at 266 S. Chestnut Street will restrict parking on the west side of the street between Lynn Lane and West Riddle Avenue. The temporary parking closure will be in effect from 10 AM to 4 PM to accommodate a funeral and subsequent luncheon.
⚖️ Elderly VFW caretaker gets 3 years for fatal shooting of homeless man. Harry Wilkinson, 76, pleaded guilty to reckless homicide in the death of Bryan McNeil at an Akron VFW post. The victim, who lived in a shed on the property with his girlfriend, was days away from starting a new job and had been sober for six months. Security footage captured Wilkinson driving to a wooded area near McNeil's shed before two gunshots were heard. Though Wilkinson claimed he only meant to scare the victims away, prosecutors argued that taking the law into one's own hands warranted prison time.
🎭 Young women shine at historic 121st Akron Children's Charity Ball. The prestigious event, held at Fairlawn's Doubletree by Hilton, celebrated eighteen remarkable honorees for their dedication to community service and hospital volunteerism. The annual ball, hosted by Akron Children's Women's Board, continues its long-standing tradition of recognizing local families' contributions to healthcare and community welfare. The honorees represented various communities including Green, Bath, Fairlawn, Akron, and Copley. This cherished celebration reinforces the vital connection between Akron Children's Hospital and its dedicated young volunteers.
In a nail-biter that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Windham (11-7) squeezed past Lordstown 58-53, proving that in the Northeastern league, no lead is ever safe. The Bombers' victory sets up an intriguing Friday night clash with St. John's Fighting Herald, who are riding high after their own impressive win over St. Martin de Porres.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Windham (11-7) | ||
vs Lordstown | W 58-53 |
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Rootstown (19-1) | ||
vs Mogadore | W 70-43 |
Ranch home on spacious acreage: This charming ranch home is listed at $169,900 and sits on 2.42 acres, featuring an oversized garage, a versatile shed for your mini-farm dreams, and lovely fruit trees. With additional lots included, it's a canvas for your future home.
Spacious home with scenic views: Charming home in Forest Lakes Development listed for $565,000 features over 3,700 sq. ft., a finished basement with a theater, and a luxurious master suite, all with scenic pond views.
Rustic retreat on vast acreage: This beautifully renovated home on over 12 acres features two bedrooms with potential for a third, a spacious horse barn, and a well-equipped shop/garage, all surrounded by scenic wildlife. The list price is $369,000.Diversifying your investments can be a smart move; spreading your money across different asset classes can help manage risk and potentially increase your returns over time.
| ||
|