Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Portage County / February 14, 2025

๐Ÿ“ Retail shake-up

Portage County • February 14, 2025

โ€‹

Good morning, Portage County. The winds of change are blowing through Hudson's corporate landscape, as fabric retail giant Joann announces a massive restructuring that feels more like a complete unraveling. With 33 Ohio stores set to close their doors and potential layoffs looming at the company's headquarters, this marks one of the most significant business shake-ups our region has seen in recent memory.

On a brighter thread, Macedonia's emergency dispatch team is weaving new opportunities into their ranks, actively recruiting the next generation of crisis responders. And speaking of new chapters, Hudson resident Kristina Roegner is adding an unexpected plot twist to Ohio's political narrative, launching a surprise bid for state treasurer. From retail reorganizations to public service possibilities, our community continues to adapt and evolve.

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โ˜•๏ธ What's Brewing Locally

Brewing Locally Image

๐Ÿ‘ฎ Macedonia seeks fresh talent for emergency dispatch positions. The City of Macedonia is actively recruiting full-time dispatchers for both police and fire departments through a civil service examination. Interested candidates can access the dispatcher test link online and must complete a Civil Service Application. The position represents an opportunity to join Macedonia's emergency response team. The hiring process is currently open and accepting applications from qualified individuals.

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๐Ÿ’ฐ Ohio state senator launches surprise bid for state treasurer position. Kristina Roegner, a Republican from Summit County, will face off against former Sen. Niraj Antani in the GOP primary race to replace term-limited Robert Sprague. The 56-year-old Hudson resident brings 14 years of legislative experience and a master's degree in finance from Wharton. As a conservative lawmaker, Roegner has championed regulatory reform and recently led efforts to eliminate diversity programs in higher education. No Democratic challenger has yet emerged for the position overseeing Ohio's investment and debt portfolios.

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๐Ÿงต Fabric retailer Joann slashes 500 stores in massive bankruptcy shakeup. The Hudson-based company will close 33 of its 45 Ohio locations, including several Northeast Ohio stores in Akron, Medina, and Hudson. Court documents filed in Delaware labeled these as "underperforming" stores that won't be included in the company's upcoming sale. Gordon Brothers Retail Partners emerged as the likely buyer, though Joann continues seeking alternative bids. The bankruptcy could result in over 1,000 layoffs at Joann's corporate offices and distribution center in Hudson.

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๐Ÿ€ Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)

TeamOpponentScore
Windham Logo Windham (11-10)
@ Mineral Ridge
L 64-45

๐Ÿก Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Upscale golf course dream home: This custom home in upscale Barrington Estates is listed at $670,000 and features a gourmet kitchen, stunning great room, luxurious master suite, and an in-law suite, all on a premier golf course lot.
Real estate listing image Southeast school district oasis available: This charming Cape Cod home in the highly sought-after Southeast School district is listed at $359,000. With modern amenities throughout, it features a delightful kitchen, a spacious master suite, and expansive outdoor living spaces on a lush 1.69-acre lot.
Real estate listing image Prime business lot ready to build: This 1.234-acre lot in Garrettsville, listed at $105,000, is cleared and ready for your new business, conveniently located overlooking the Garrettsville Plaza with all utilities available. Don't miss this chance to join a thriving community.

๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Happenings & Hoopla

๐ŸŽ—๏ธ Feb. 14 - Hometown Urgent Care Opening: Join us as Hometown Urgent Care cuts the ribbon at their new Ravenna location! Celebrate this healthcare milestone on Valentine's Day at 951 E Main Street.
๐ŸŽจ Feb. 14 - Valentine's Paint & Love: Unleash your inner artist this Valentine's Day at Vibrant Hearts paint class! Channel Romero Britto's joyful style as you create colorful, heart-themed masterpieces at 1155 E Main St in Ravenna.
๐Ÿ“ Feb. 14 - FAFSA Help Night: Need help conquering the FAFSA? Drop by Ravenna High School on February 14th for free one-on-one assistance from College Now experts who'll guide you through financial aid options and application completion.
๐ŸŽฒ Feb. 14 - Social Gaming Night: Get your detective hat on for Friday Night Social Sessions! Join fellow sleuths for engaging party games like Werewolf and Two Rooms and a Boom at 141 E Summit St, Kent this Valentine's Day.
๐Ÿ™ Feb. 14 - Kent AA Night Meeting: Find strength and fellowship at Kent Friday Night, a welcoming AA meeting held at 335 W Main Street in Kent. Join others on their recovery journey this February 14th in a supportive environment.
๐Ÿ›๏ธ Feb. 14 - Randolph Trustees Meet: Join your neighbors for the monthly Randolph Township Trustee Meeting at 1639 OH-44 in Atwater. Share your voice in local governance this Valentine's Day as community leaders discuss township matters.
๐Ÿ€ Feb. 15 - Ohio vs Kent State: Catch the hardwood action as Ohio takes on Kent State in a thrilling college basketball matchup at the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center on February 15, 2025.
โค๏ธ Feb. 15 - Heart Health Expo: Take charge of your heart health at UH Portage Medical Center's Heart Health Expo! Join medical experts at the NEW Center in Rootstown on February 15 for free screenings and wellness information.

๐Ÿ’ฐ Financial Friday

Regularly reviewing and adjusting your budget can help you stay aligned with your financial goals; it allows you to track your spending habits and identify areas where you might be able to save more effectively.

๐Ÿ™ In Remembrance

Dr. Timothy J. Gallagher

Dr. Aurora Gallagher, 68, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born on June 21, 1956, in Parma, he was a proud graduate of St. Ignatius High School and earned his medical doctorate from Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Gallagher dedicated over 30 years to serving as a beloved physician at Parma Hospital and was the medical director for Seasons of Life Hospice. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he cherished his family, faith, and Irish heritage, and enjoyed various sports and the outdoors. The family requests donations to St. Charles Borromeo Church in lieu of flowers.

Dr.  Timothy J. Gallagher

Frank Battaglia

Frank Battaglia, 62, of Kent, OH, passed away on February 6, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on December 24, 1962, in Akron, he was known for his joyful spirit and close ties to family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law, and is survived by his siblings and numerous nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held on February 16, with a Mass of Christian Burial on February 17 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, followed by interment at Standing Rock Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Battaglia family.

Frank Battaglia
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