Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Portage County / July 22, 2025

🏠 Phantom landlord

Portage County • July 22, 2025

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Good morning, Portage County. In an era where digital scams grow increasingly sophisticated, one local woman's $1,102 loss serves as a stark reminder of real estate fraud's evolving tactics. Taylor Greene's encounter with a phantom landlord named "James Duran" demonstrates how criminals now leverage remote property tours and financial apps to create convincing illusions, leaving authorities scrambling to investigate as legitimate property owners remain completely unaware.

Heart disease continues its reign as women's deadliest adversary, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined—a reality that Hudson mom Molly Marhofer knows all too personally after her mother suffered a heart attack at just 50. As Marhofer steps into her role as the 2026 Go Red for Women volunteer chair, her advocacy coincides with Cleveland Heights preparing for its musical feast—the 13th annual Heights Music Hop will transform four commercial districts into vibrant performance spaces this September, showcasing the region's rich cultural tapestry.

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏠 Woman scammed out of $1,102 in fake real estate deal. Taylor Greene was duped by a man claiming to be James Duran who listed a property on eBay for rent or sale. After making multiple payments through the Chime app to cover supposed HOA fees, Greene was allowed to tour the property remotely. The scammer cut all communication after the tour, and Greene discovered the home was actually owned by Open Door Trust Real Estate, who had no knowledge of Duran. Police are currently investigating the incident.

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❤️ Hudson mom leads the charge against women's heart disease. Molly Marhofer, community outreach director at Ron Marhofer Auto Family, will serve as the 2026 volunteer chair of Go Red for Women in Akron-Canton. Her passion stems from personal experience—her mother suffered a heart attack at just 50 years old. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading killer of women, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined. The American Heart Association's Go Red for Women movement aims to educate women about prevention, with achievements to be celebrated at a luncheon on February 12, 2026.

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🎵 Cleveland Heights prepares for a musical feast spanning three vibrant days. The 13th annual Heights Music Hop will transform four iconic commercial districts from September 19-21, 2025, showcasing live music and community spirit. Starting in Cedar-Fairmount on Friday, the festival continues Saturday at Noble Road Library and Cedar Lee District before concluding Sunday in Coventry Village. Organized by FutureHeights, this family-friendly celebration promises diverse performances that highlight the community's authentic character. The complete schedule will be available at www.futureheights.org/musichop.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Luxurious Colonial pool garden paradise: Listed at $459,900, this elegant Colonial offers four bedrooms, four baths, and a chef's kitchen within an open-concept layout, complete with a finished basement, heated saltwater pool, and strategic location near schools and shopping.
Real estate listing image Budget-friendly spacious modern Champion home: Priced at $95,000, this 2019 Champion Sonic home features 1,568 square feet of open living space, complete with a spacious kitchen, primary suite, two additional bedrooms, family room, and outdoor amenities in a convenient location.
Real estate listing image Upscale Four Seasons living space: Priced at $385,000, this updated Four Seasons home features hardwood floors, a brick fireplace, granite countertops, and an owner's suite with walk-in closet, plus abundant outdoor space for entertaining.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🍽️ Jul. 23 - Free Meals for Kids: Fuel young minds and bodies at the Main Library! Free meals for kids 18 and under through the Summer Food Service Program, available weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 305 Wick Ave.
🎵 Jul. 23 - Aaron Stanley Pizza Party: Unwind with Aaron Stanley's soulful tunes at 1875 Winery & Event Center on July 23! Sip fantastic wines while savoring homemade pizza in Hartville's charming vineyard setting.
🗳️ Jul. 23 - Central Committee Meeting: Join Portage Democrats for their Central Committee Meeting at Independence of Portage County on July 23. Connect with local party members and stay informed about upcoming initiatives in your community.
🍽️ Jul. 23 - Free Kids' Summer Lunch: Fuel up for summer fun! Kids ages 1-18 can enjoy FREE lunch and activities at Reed Memorial Library on July 23, courtesy of Community Action Council. No registration needed!
📚 Jul. 23 - Book Scouts Adventure Journey: Embark on a bookish adventure with Book Scouts at Reed Memorial Library on July 23! Explore exciting worlds of learning at this free community event in Ravenna. No reservation needed.
🏆 Jul. 26 - County Amateur Championship: Tee off at the historic Portage County Amateur Championship! Windmill Lakes Golf Club hosts this prestigious 36-hole stroke play event on July 26, featuring County, Open and Women's divisions.
🍩 Jul. 26 - Donuts With The Dems: Grab a cup of joe and connect with local Democrats at "Donuts With The Dems" on July 26! This free, public gathering happens at Portage Dems HQ, 210 S. Meridian Street in Ravenna.
🥫 Jul. 26 - Loaves & Fishes Pantry: Stock up on essentials at Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry's monthly distribution! Visit 263 S Prospect St in Ravenna on July 26 for income-based food and hygiene items to support your family's needs.
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