🌳 Spring bounty blooms

Good morning, Portage County. April in Ohio brings not just spring showers, but a shower of community resources as well. The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank's drive-thru pantries are returning this month, with the first distribution happening Thursday in Ravenna. These final pop-ups until fall offer vital food assistance before the summer months arrive—mark your calendars for additional opportunities at Kent State and NEOMED later this month.

Meanwhile, a piece of beloved local history is getting new life as Aurora unveils plans for transforming the historic Geauga Lake site into a public park. The $5.3 million investment preserves 100 acres for community enjoyment, with concept plans on display at Wednesday's open house. And for nature enthusiasts with a sense of humor, it turns out those legendary "snipe hunts" aren't just pranks after all—as Frohring Meadows birders recently discovered while spotting the very real (and very elusive) Wilson snipe during its spring migration.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Kent

33°

61°

82%

Streetsboro

34°

65°

83%

Aurora

34°

65°

83%

Ravenna

34°

62°

84%

Brimfield

34°

65°

83%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🍲 Free food pantries return to Portage County this April. The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank is hosting three drive-thru pop-up pantries throughout the month, beginning Thursday in Ravenna from 1-3 p.m. Additional events will be held at Kent State University's Dix Stadium on April 16 and at NEOMED in Rootstown on April 28. These April distributions will be the last drive-thru pantries until fall. More information about these food assistance opportunities can be found on the foodbank's website.

🏞️ Aurora unveils plans for new park at historic Geauga Lake site. The city is hosting an open house Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the Walker Building to showcase concept plans for the proposed Aurora Park. Officials completed a $5.3 million purchase of the 53-acre lake and 47 adjacent acres in December, preserving the former amusement park property for public use. The development will unfold in multiple phases over several years, with proposed amenities including a pool, recreational options, trails, and meeting spaces. Residents are invited to view plans, provide feedback, and speak directly with project consultants and city officials.

🦅 April Fools' snipe hunt isn't a joke—these birds are real. At Frohring Meadows in Ohio, naturalist Trevor Wearstler led birders on a legitimate search for the elusive Wilson snipe, debunking the centuries-old prank. The small, pudgy shorebirds with long bills were spotted darting across the marshland during their spring migration north. Participants also enjoyed sightings of bluebirds, red-winged blackbirds, and even a juvenile eagle during the outing. For 79-year-old veteran birder Dot Bambach, who's been watching birds for over 70 years, it's like "collecting birds" in her lifelong passion.

Colonial country estate paradise: This classic colonial retreat on 4 acres offers 2,300 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and two family rooms for $395,000. Enjoy rural tranquility and a private backyard perfect for fireside relaxation.

Colonial Dream Brazilian Wood Included: This updated 4-bed colonial in Pleasant Lakes comes with a Brazilian Tiger Wood deck, partially finished basement, and features like granite countertops in the kitchen, all for $364,900.

New Pulte perfection lakeside amenities: This 2022 Pulte Atwater construction priced at $914,000 offers turn-key living with open-concept design, main-level office, luxurious owner's suite, and access to Aurora Lake amenities through HOA fees.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🧠 Apr. 3 - Trivia Night @ Lake House: Test your knowledge at Trivia Night at Lake House Kitchen + Bar! Join fellow trivia buffs on April 3 at 7508 OH-43 in Kent for an evening of fun competition and delicious eats.

🧠 Apr. 3 - Trivia at MadCap: Put your thinking caps on for Trivia Night at MadCap Brew Co! Gather your smartest friends and head to Kent on April 3 for a fun evening of questions, craft beer, and friendly competition.

🎸 Apr. 4 - Noah Smith Live: Catch Cincinnati songwriter Noah Smith at The Outpost Concert Club on April 4, where his whiskey blues and soulful roots create a sound that captivates both country and rock fans alike.

🍫 Apr. 4 - Cacao Ceremony with Erica: Experience the ancient ritual of a Cacao Ceremony with Erica Crystol at SHINE Ohio! Sip sacred chocolate and connect with your inner self on April 4 at 6pm. Just $40 for this 90-minute journey.

🎮 Apr. 4 - Social Game Night: Unleash your inner detective at Friday Night Social Sessions! Gather friends for thrilling social deduction and party games like Werewolf and Blood on the Clocktower, April 4 at 141 E Summit St, Kent.

🎸 Apr. 5 - Maddox Batson Live: Country sensation Maddox Batson lights up The Dusty Armadillo on April 5! Catch this electrifying live performance at Rootstown's favorite venue starting at 5:00 PM—grab your tickets now for an unforgettable evening.

🤠 Apr. 5 - Golden Flash Country Bash: Nashville's country rockers Yours for the Taking bring their electrifying sound to Kent State's Golden Flash Bash! Catch these talented brothers live on April 5 at 800 E Summit St.

🙏 Apr. 6 - Upward Church Preview Service: Be part of something new! Join Upward City Church for preview services at Ravenna 7 Movies as they prepare for their Easter 2025 launch. Experience the excitement on April 6th at 215 W Cedar Ave.

🙏 In Remembrance

Donald R. Heiens

Donald R. Heiens, an 83-year-old resident of Bristolville, OH, passed away on March 9, 2025. Born in 1942 in Wood River, IL, Don was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who married Joy Watkins in 1962, and together they raised two daughters while living in various locations before settling in Bristolville. Known for his strong love of country, family, and God, Don is survived by his wife of 62 years, his daughters Paula and Susan, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. Following his wishes, Don was cremated with private services handled by Mallory-DeHaven-Carlson Funeral Home.

David Lee Fenstermacher

David Lee Fenstermacher passed away on March 23, 2025, after a three-month health decline, which he faced with courage and dignity. A Kent Roosevelt High School graduate and golf enthusiast, David served honorably in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1970, including a year in Saigon during the Vietnam War. He enjoyed outdoor activities including golfing, boating, fishing, and watching racing events. David is survived by his son Michael, who served as his caregiver, and Michael's mother Sharon, while a private service was held at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery.

Donald R. Heiens

Donald R. Heiens, 83, of Bristolville, OH, passed away on March 9, 2025, after being born in Wood River, IL in 1942. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Don married Joy Watkins in 1962, and together they raised two daughters while living in various locations before settling permanently in Bristolville. He was known for his strong love of country, devotion to family and friends, and deep faith in God. Don is survived by his wife of 62 years, his daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family members.

Charles W. Nichols

Dr. Charles W. Nichols, a 98-year-old World War II Army veteran and educator, passed away on March 27, 2025. After 35 years in education, including roles at Marion Public Schools, University of Cincinnati, and serving as Chairman of the Department of Vocational Education at Kent State University, Charlie was also dedicated to his wife Ruth, caring for her after her stroke until her passing in 2013. He is survived by his brother Richard, children Ed and Jan, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Memorial services will be held on April 4th at the United Methodist Church in Kent, followed by a private family burial the next day.