Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Portage County / February 26, 2025

🍣 Sushi and Support

Portage County • February 26, 2025

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Good morning, Portage County. They say the way to someone's heart is through their stomach, and celebrity chef Dante Boccuzzi is taking that straight to the suburbs. His latest venture, Masu, is about to transform Brecksville's dining scene with a dual-personality sushi spot that's both quick-casual cool and date-night divine. It's just the latest evidence that our culinary landscape is evolving faster than you can say "omakase."

While Masu prepares to roll out its welcome mat, two local mental health powerhouses are joining forces to create something even more satisfying than perfect sushi. The merger of Children's Advantage and Axess Family Services proves that sometimes the best things come in pairs – just ask those empty nesters who traded their colonial mansion for a sleek minimalist dream home overlooking the Chagrin River. Talk about a fresh start.

🌀 Sky Skoop

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β˜•οΈ What's Brewing Locally

Brewing Locally Image

🍣 Celebrity chef Dante Boccuzzi brings upscale sushi to Cleveland suburb. The acclaimed restaurateur plans to open Masu, a modern sushi concept at Brecksville's Valor Acres development this summer. The restaurant will feature a dual-concept format, offering quick casual rolls and bowls for lunch service. Evening diners can expect the same high-end sushi experience found at Boccuzzi's established Cleveland restaurants Ginko and Goma. The new location will be part of a mixed-use development featuring retail, housing, and lifestyle amenities.

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🀝 Two Ohio mental health agencies join forces to better serve families. Children's Advantage and Axess Family Services have merged their operations in Portage County, with leaders promising no disruption to current services. The merger, described as the "most impactful yet" by executive director Mark Frisone, will eventually expand access to both social and medical services. Children's Advantage, founded in 1975, currently operates from two Ravenna facilities and maintains a strong presence in local schools through counselors and case managers. The partnership aims to prioritize convenience for families while integrating comprehensive health services under one umbrella.

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🏠 Empty nesters ditch massive colonial for sleek minimalist dream home. The Chagrin Valley couple downsized from 7,200 to 5,800 square feet, working with W Design to create a modern farmhouse overlooking the Chagrin River. The white-brick exterior and monochromatic interior are warmed by strategic wood accents, while hidden storage and clean lines define the space. The first-floor owner's suite and elevator ensure aging-in-place comfort, while enormous windows showcase stunning forest views. The homeowners' verdict? "It's exactly what I wantedβ€”and I didn't know what I wanted!"

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🏑 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Upscale condos with custom designs: Trentstone in Aurora offers upscale first-floor living with 18 standalone condos featuring customizable designs, high-end finishes, and a model showcasing luxurious upgrades. Priced at $899,900, the first three buyers will receive complimentary design services.
Real estate listing image Charming condo with pond views: This lovely condo listed at $430,000 offers maintenance-free living with a first-floor owner's suite, stunning pond views, and a finished walk-out lower level. Enjoy spacious rooms, beautiful outdoor settings, and a prime location in Aurora.
Real estate listing image Affordable mobile home with charm: This cute mobile home is priced at $22,000 and features two bedrooms, an updated bathroom, and a spacious living area, all set in a convenient location near Kent State and local amenities. Enjoy the serene wooded views and covered deck in your new backyard retreat.

πŸ—“οΈ Happenings & Hoopla

🎀 Feb. 26 - Ceci Taylor Live: Powerhouse vocalist Ceci Taylor brings her soaring range and original songs to 1875 Winery on February 26. Experience this Northeast Ohio singer-songwriter's captivating performance in Hartville's intimate vineyard setting.
🎯 Feb. 27 - Lake House Trivia Night: Test your knowledge and win big at Lake House Kitchen + Bar's weekly trivia night! Join fellow trivia buffs February 27th at this cozy Kent spot for an evening of friendly competition.
🎭 Feb. 27 - Lend Me A Soprano: Laugh along as mistaken identities and operatic chaos unfold in "Lend Me A Soprano" at Mount Union's Gallaher Black Box Theatre. Catch this musical farce February 27 at the Giese Center for the Performing Arts.
🀠 Feb. 28 - Country Honk Live: Saddle up for an evening of twangy goodness as Country Honk brings fresh country-rock vibes to Water Street Tavern. Catch these Northeast Ohio all-stars jamming from 6-9pm on February 28.
🎲 Feb. 28 - Social Games Night: Join the ultimate game night at 141 E Summit St in Kent, where social deduction favorites like Werewolf and Blood on the Clocktower bring strangers together as friends. Games begin February 28th!
πŸ’Ό Mar. 01 - Ravenna Business Expo: Discover what makes Ravenna shine at this vibrant business expo! Local companies, non-profits and community groups showcase their best at Ravenna High School, 6589 N Chestnut St, on March 1.
🌾 Mar. 01 - Winter Farmers' Market: Warm up your winter Saturday mornings at Kent's cozy indoor farmers' market! Local vendors gather at the UU Church's Hobbs Hall (217 N. Mantua St) from 10am-1pm with fresh produce and artisanal goods.
✝️ Mar. 02 - Calvary's Love: Experience an evening of uplifting gospel music at New Testament Baptist's "Calvary's Love" concert. Join the community celebration on March 2nd at 3583 OH-59 in Ravenna.

πŸ™ In Remembrance

George Randall

George Randall, 92, of Ravenna, passed away on February 23, 2025, at his home. Born on August 3, 1932, in Boswell, PA, he was a US Army veteran and retired from the Ford Motor Company. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Margaret, their children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. George was preceded in death by his parents and brothers. Cremation has taken place per his wishes, and a celebration of his life will be announced later.

George Randall

Vicie Taylor Mostella

Vicie Taylor Mostella, 73, of Ravenna, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on February 19, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born on September 14, 1951, in Hurley, Virginia, she moved to Ravenna as a teenager, where she had a fulfilling career with Hogan's Van service and later at Portage County MRDD until her retirement. A devoted mother to three children and passionate pastor at God's Church, Vicie was known for her love and care for family, friends, and her community. She is preceded in death by her parents and two husbands, and is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and many extended family members. Visitation will be on February 24, followed by funeral services on February 25, 2025.

Vicie Taylor Mostella

Diane Huebner

Diane Huebner, 66, passed away on January 22, 2025, after a prolonged battle with various medical conditions, demonstrating remarkable courage. Known for her generous spirit and infectious humor, she is remembered by her siblings, Julie, Adam, and Matt, as well as her beloved nieces and nephews. Diane was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis, and her parents, Adam and Julie Burghardt. A memorial service will be held on March 8th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at The Hill Church in Brimfield, OH.

Diane Huebner

LAURENCE ROBERT MOORE

Laurence Robert Moore, 68, of Hiram, Ohio, passed away on February 15, 2025, due to complications from a prolonged health issue. Born on August 19, 1956, he was a Crestwood High School graduate and spent his life on the family farm, contributing to crop management and maple syrup production. Laurence operated a lawn care business and assisted with snow plowing in the community, while also enjoying music, car work, and caring for cats. He is survived by his siblings and several nieces and nephews, and was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial visitation and service will be held on April 12, 2025, at Hiram Christian Church.

LAURENCE ROBERT MOORE

Linda K Fankhauser

Linda K. Fankhauser, 77, of Ravenna, passed away at home on February 22, 2025, surrounded by her family. A lifelong resident of Portage County, she dedicated 20 years to nursing at Robinson Memorial Hospital and later served as Portage County Recorder and Clerk of Courts for over a decade. Linda was actively involved in her community and cherished time with her family, especially enjoying crafts and games. She is survived by her children and grandchildren, and is reunited in death with her late husband, Bob Fankhauser. Calling hours will be held on February 27, with a funeral service to follow.

Linda K Fankhauser
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