Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Portage County / March 12, 2025

🧂 Winter's white tax

Portage County • March 12, 2025

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Good morning, Portage County. The impact of winter's fury is evident across our township, with Northfield Center's salt usage doubling compared to previous years. As officials scramble to purchase an additional 240 tons of road salt, they're simultaneously addressing residents' flooding concerns on Sky Heaven Road while approving demolition contracts and preparing for ODOT's Route 82 paving work—a perfect storm of infrastructure challenges that will test both patience and planning in the coming months.

Meanwhile, a concerning bird flu outbreak has struck close to home, with 40 backyard birds in Portage County either succumbing naturally or requiring euthanization. This local case contributes to Ohio's unfortunate leadership in national avian flu statistics. Yet amid these challenges, there's inspiration in Sumica Williams' story—a woman who overcame learning disabilities and childhood institutionalization to find her calling as a school bus driver, reminding us that with proper support, potential can flourish despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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💧 Northfield Center tackles flooding woes amid staffing changes and infrastructure projects. Trustees approved two key hires for the township's services department while addressing residents' concerns about increased flooding on Sky Heaven Road caused by dumped asphalt grindings. The board also approved a $32,321 contract to demolish long-unfinished structures at 99 West Highland Road and discussed upcoming road projects, including ODOT's Route 82 paving work that could cause significant traffic disruptions. Winter weather has doubled the township's salt usage compared to previous years, prompting the purchase of an additional 240 tons of road salt.

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📚 Learning disabilities couldn't stop Sumica Williams from finding success. Growing up in the 1960s, her teachers didn't understand her challenges, often moving her between classes or just letting her color instead of learning. At age 9, she was even institutionalized when she stopped talking. Despite these obstacles, Williams eventually found her calling as a school bus driver, passing her test with a 98% thanks to a patient trainer who recognized her needs. Her story highlights how proper support can unlock potential in those with learning differences.

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🐔 Bird flu strikes Portage County, infecting 40 backyard birds. Health officials reported that the flock of chickens, ducks, and geese either died naturally or were euthanized to prevent disease spread. Ohio leads the nation in avian flu cases with nearly 4 million infected birds, about half the national total. The outbreak has devastated commercial farms, leading to egg shortages and price increases. Experts recommend biosecurity measures including preventing contact with wild animals, using proper housing, and maintaining good hygiene practices to protect backyard flocks.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Wooded lot awaits expansion: For just $75,900, this nice wooded building lot awaits its new owner. The serene property offers additional land for those looking to expand, and interested buyers are encouraged to inquire promptly.
Real estate listing image Pond View Luxury Ready Now: Priced at $350,000, this move-in ready condo features a renovated kitchen with quartz countertops, a spacious primary suite, finished lower level, and serene pond views in a low-maintenance community.
Real estate listing image Remodeled dream home awaits you: Priced at $309,900, this completely remodeled townhouse in the Reserves of Aurora features a stunning new kitchen, custom-tiled baths, and a flexible lower level, all complemented by a private backyard with two raised decks.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎬 Mar. 12 - Pop Culture Chat Night: Dive into the pop culture universe at Reed Memorial Library's "Watch This!" discussion group on March 12. Share your thoughts on films, fandoms, and entertainment trends in this lively evening gathering.
🧠 Mar. 13 - Trivia Night at LHK: Test your knowledge at Trivia Night at Lake House Kitchen + Bar! Gather your smartest friends and head to Kent on March 13 for brain-teasing fun in a cozy lakeside setting.
🍀 Mar. 13 - St. Patty's Wood Painting: Get creative at St. Patty's Painting night at West Main St Winery & Brewery! Transform a wooden circle into festive art on March 13 for just $25. All supplies provided—just bring cash and your reservation.
🎲 Mar. 13 - Community Game Night Fun: Grab your game face and head to Horseshoe Diner for Community Game Night! Join fellow players for tabletop fun with games from Battlegrounds Game Center on Thursday, March 13th from 5:30-7:30pm.
🧠 Mar. 13 - Trivia at MadCap: Test your knowledge at MadCap Brew Co's Trivia Night on March 13! Gather your smartest friends and head to 1422 Mogadore Rd in Kent for an evening of brain-teasing fun and craft brews.
🍀 Mar. 14 - St. Patrick's Day Bash: Get lucky at Paris Inn's St. Patrick's Day bash! Enjoy complimentary food, drink specials, and Jell-O shots while trying your luck at the Queen of Hearts Drawing with over $8000 in prizes. March 14 in Ravenna.
🌲 Mar. 14 - Explore Ohio Country: Step into the past at "Into The Ohio Country" on March 14! Explore Ravenna's best activities and cultural events at 5200 Hayes Rd for an unforgettable day of discovery and local charm.
🏥 Mar. 14 - Senior Resources Fair: Discover vital resources for seniors at Portage County District Library on March 14! UH Portage volunteers Allen and Sally Kelly share essential information on financial assistance, mental health support, and home security options.

🙏 In Remembrance

Larry E. Lucks

Larry E. Lucks, 82, of North Canton, passed away on Sunday, March 9, 2025. Following his wishes, he will be cremated. A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at a date that has not yet been announced. Bissler and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory in Kent, Ohio is handling the cremation services. No additional biographical information about Larry's life was provided in the obituary.

Jean R. Grant

Jean R. Grant, 98, of Chagrin Falls, passed away on March 8, 2025, at Kensington Care Center in Aurora. Born on December 3, 1926, in Cleveland to Rocco and Louise Sotera, she was an active member of St. Helen's Catholic Church and the Sweet Adelines. Jean is survived by her four children, 13 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren, while being preceded in death by her parents and husband Ralph Grant. A graveside service will be held on March 11, 2025, at Shadyside Cemetery, with a celebration of life to be announced later.

Jean R. Grant

Cynthia A Dietz-Lattimer

Cynthia Dietz-Lattimer, 58, of Ravenna, Ohio, passed away on March 7, 2025, at UH Portage Medical Center. Born in 1966 in Garfield Heights, she spent most of her adult life in Ravenna and worked as a housekeeper at Bertram Inn and Conference Center before retiring. She enjoyed NASCAR racing, cooking shows, and fishing with her children. Cynthia is survived by her three children, siblings, grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews, with a celebration of life to be held at a later date.

Cynthia A Dietz-Lattimer

David Thomas Burroughs

David Thomas Burroughs, 75, of Kent, passed away on March 3, 2025, in Orlando, FL. He dedicated over 35 years to teaching music, serving as band director at St. Clairsville Schools and Kent City Schools before retiring in 2007. David was an Ohio Music Educators Association Adjudicator for 45 years and enjoyed sports, traveling, and amusement parks. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Donna Mae, his sister, three children, three grandchildren, and other family members. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on March 15, 2025, at University Parish Newman Center in Kent.

David Thomas Burroughs

Anna M. Adams

Anna M. Adams, 74, of Kent, passed away on March 5, 2025, at UH Portage Medical Center. Born in Italy in 1950, she immigrated to the United States as a young child, grew up in Pennsylvania, and graduated from high school in Ohio in 1968. She worked at Evenflo and Deluxe Corporation, and enjoyed crafting, crocheting, movies, and reading, but her greatest joy was her grandchildren. Anna is survived by her three children, six grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, two sisters, and her best friend of 40 years, while being preceded in death by her parents and brother.

Anna M. Adams

David Orrin Peterson

David Peterson, age 81, passed away peacefully on March 5th, 2025, after sharing 62 years of marriage with his wife Patricia. He was a devoted family man who enjoyed playing basketball with his children, hosting cookouts, taking family vacations to Myrtle Beach, and preparing special meals for his loved ones. David is survived by his wife, four children, eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and was preceded in death by five siblings. The family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date and suggests donations to local animal shelters or the Cleveland Food Bank in lieu of flowers.

David Orrin Peterson
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