📢 Local voices matter

Good morning, Portage County. In a stark reminder that positions of trust carry tremendous responsibility, former teacher Eric Schmidt faces serious charges related to child exploitation materials. The case, which authorities confirm doesn't involve students from his previous district, highlights the vigilance needed to protect our community's most vulnerable members. Meanwhile, a June 2024 incident at Ravenna Eagles Club has reached partial resolution as Jamie Perry pleads guilty to drug charges following multiple overdoses that sent five people to the hospital.

The power of community voices was on full display at the Broadview Heights Planning Commission, where residents successfully blocked a proposed Sheetz gas station at a busy intersection. Citing concerns about light pollution, noise, and traffic congestion, neighbors effectively convinced officials to recommend the Pennsylvania-based company look elsewhere — proving that when locals unite around shared concerns, even national chains must listen.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Kent

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Streetsboro

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Aurora

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Ravenna

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Brimfield

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚨 Former teacher charged in disturbing child exploitation case. Eric Schmidt, who previously taught at South Euclid-Lyndhurst School District, has been indicted on three counts of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material and one count of disseminating matter harmful to juveniles. The Seven Hills resident was arrested in January following an investigation into "inappropriate actions with a minor." School officials confirmed the alleged victim is not a student at South Euclid-Lyndhurst Schools, and Schmidt is no longer employed by the district as of February 28. His arraignment is scheduled for March 26 in Geauga County Common Pleas Court.

💊 Woman pleads guilty after group overdose at Ohio Eagles Club. Jamie Perry, 40, admitted to corrupting others with drugs and drug trafficking charges in Portage County Court. The incident occurred in June 2024 at Ravenna Eagles Club, where emergency crews responded to multiple overdoses. Six people required life-saving treatment, with five hospitalized for further care. Perry awaits sentencing pending a presentence investigation, while other charges were dropped as part of her plea deal.

⛽ Sheetz gas station plan rejected amid strong neighborhood opposition. The Broadview Heights Planning Commission voted down a proposal for a Sheetz gas station/convenience store at Broadview and East Wallings roads on February 26. Residents had voiced concerns about light and noise pollution, as well as increased traffic congestion at an already busy intersection. City officials and locals suggested the Pennsylvania-based company find an alternative location, specifically recommending Ohio 82 instead. Sheetz representatives claimed they had searched for Ohio 82 property for over 10 years but couldn't find suitable zoned land.

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🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎵 Mar. 5 - Aaron Stanley's Pizza Concert: Sip and sway with Aaron Stanley at 1875 Winery & Event Center on March 5! Unwind with live music while savoring homemade pizza and exceptional wines in Hartville's charming vineyard setting.

🧠 Mar. 5 - Trivia at Bell Tower: Test your knowledge at Bell Tower Brewing's Trivia Night on March 5! Gather your smartest friends at 310 Park Ave in Kent for brain-teasing fun, craft beers, and friendly competition.

💪 Mar. 5 - CliftonStrengths Superpowers Workshop: Unlock your hidden talents at the CliftonStrengths Workshop! Discover what makes you uniquely powerful at SHINE Ohio in Kent on March 5. Embrace your natural strengths in this transformative session.

🧠 Mar. 6 - Trivia Night at LHK: Test your knowledge while you sip and socialize at Trivia Night! Join the fun at Lake House Kitchen + Bar in Kent on March 6 for an evening of brain-teasing questions and friendly competition.

🌿 Mar. 6 - Essential Oil Living Workshop: Unlock the power of essential oils with expert Jackie Palumbo at Sandi's Creative Corner on March 6! Discover which oils are must-haves for your home during this enlightening workshop on East Main Street.

💬 Mar. 6 - Streetsboro Morning Discussion: Join the conversation at Streetsboro AM Discussion on March 6! Stop by 8940 OH-43 in Streetsboro to connect with neighbors and share ideas in this friendly morning gathering.

🎮 Mar. 7 - Social Game Night: Gather your crew for Friday Night Social Sessions at 141 E Summit St! Join the fun on March 7 playing Werewolf, Blood on the Clocktower, and other party games while making new friends.

🛩️ Mar. 8 - Kent Indoor Fun Fly: Take flight at the Kent State Indoor Fun Fly on March 8! RC enthusiasts will gather at Kent State University (800 E Summit St) for an afternoon of indoor flying fun. Check Facebook for latest updates.

🙏 In Remembrance

Lynda L Brey

Lynda L. Brey, 77, of Garrettsville, passed away on February 26, 2025, at the Avenue at Aurora where she had been living for the past 5 years. Born in Cleveland on October 2, 1947, she enjoyed bingo, art, bowling, camping, and adventures with her family throughout her life. She is survived by her four children, numerous grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren (with one on the way), one great-great grandson, and her sister Dolly. Memorial services will be held on March 8, 2025, at the First Baptist Church in Streetsboro following cremation per her request.

Carole A. "Carrie" Shelly

Carole A. "Carrie" Shelly, 71, of Kent, passed away on March 2, 2025, at Tamarack Ridge Health and Rehabilitation. A Cleveland native and Ravenna High School graduate, she worked for Kent Social Services at the Miller Community House for 25 years after earning her associate degree in social services from the University of Akron. Carrie was an animal lover who enjoyed bird watching, reading, and collecting clocks, and she cherished time spent with her family and friends. She is survived by her three daughters, five grandchildren, one great-grandson, and her sister, with funeral services scheduled for March 7 at Bissler and Sons Funeral Home.