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

📡 Power play

Portage County • August 12, 2025

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Good morning, Portage County. Downed power lines turned Sunday morning into an unexpected adventure for Streetsboro residents as State Route 14 shut down and more than 200 customers lost power. While FirstEnergy crews worked to restore electricity, affected locals likely found themselves improvising their weekend plans—perhaps some even ventured out to discover new local treasures while waiting for the 2 p.m. estimated restoration time.

Speaking of local treasures, Cleveland Heights' family-run Ethiopian restaurant Zoma is redefining the dining experience with its authentic injera flatbread that serves as both your plate and utensil. Meanwhile, in government circles, Shaker Heights is poised to welcome Matt Carroll as its new chief administrative officer after Mayor Weiss selected him from over 60 applicants, citing his extensive county experience—though his $189,000 salary and past controversies have raised some eyebrows ahead of Monday's confirmation vote.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏙️ Shaker Heights poised to name county veteran as chief administrator. Former longtime Cuyahoga County official Matt Carroll is expected to be confirmed Monday as the city's next chief administrative officer. Mayor David Weiss selected Carroll from more than 60 applicants, citing his "wealth of experience" and leadership capabilities. Carroll, who currently serves as Senior Advisor for Strategic Initiatives making $189,000 annually, would replace retiring Jeri Chaikin after her 25-year tenure. His county career includes serving under three executives, though it also involved controversy regarding inappropriate reimbursements at the Convention Facilities Development Corporation.

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⚡ Power lines crash down, shutting off State Route 14 in Streetsboro. The closure between Superior Avenue and St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church began around 11 a.m. on August 11, forcing motorists to find alternate routes. FirstEnergy reported approximately 225 customers lost power in the area just south of Streetsboro City Park baseball fields. Crews were dispatched to investigate with an estimated restoration time of 2 p.m., though this could change. Residents can check for updates on FirstEnergy's outage website.

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🍽️ Ethiopian gem Zoma brings authentic flavors to Cleveland Heights. This family-run restaurant serves traditional dishes centered around injera, a sour fermented flatbread made in-house that serves as both plate and utensil. Owners Zeleke Belete and Betty Kassa, Ethiopian immigrants, create communal dining experiences with vibrant vegetarian options and meat dishes like sizzling tibs. The 36-seat eatery completes the authentic experience with traditional Ethiopian beverages and a ceremonial coffee service where beans are roasted before your eyes.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Lakeside affordable ranch needs updates: This $170,000 ranch-style home is just three blocks from Lake Erie and features partially updated interiors, making it ideal for a vacation getaway or permanent residence.
Real estate listing image Updated Cherry Street gem awaits: Priced at $225,000, this charming Cherry Street abode boasts ample updates, including fresh flooring, kitchen, bathrooms, newer HVAC, and a tranquil fenced backyard with a three-season room.
Real estate listing image Cozy Kent Home Near University: This charming four-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath home in Kent, Ohio can be yours for just $250,000. Perfect for families or as a rental property near Kent State University.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🌊 Aug. 12 - Musical Ocean Adventure: Dive into a sea of melody at Reed Memorial Library's "Music and Motion" event! Little ones will enjoy this musical voyage filled with watery rhythms and fun on August 12.
🍽️ Aug. 12 - Free Kids' Summer Lunch: Fuel up for summer fun! Kids ages 1-18 can enjoy FREE lunch and activities at Greene Public Library on August 12, courtesy of Community Action Council. No registration needed!
🌭 Aug. 13 - Dem's Happy Hour Cookout: Grab a bite at Hot Dog & Hamburger Happy Hour hosted by Portage Dems! Swing by Big Dog Saloon in Ravenna on August 13 for good food and great conversation with friends. Sponsored by Hands Off Portage County.
🎨 Aug. 13 - Let's Learn to Draw: Unleash your inner artist at Reed Memorial Library! "Let's Learn to Draw" teaches you the basics of getting those creative ideas onto paper on August 13 in Ravenna. Free for all skill levels.
🎉 Aug. 14 - Party on Metis Patio: Mix and mingle at Metis Construction's patio party! Join Leadership Portage County on August 14 at 175 E Erie St in Kent for networking and fun. Open to all LPC alumni, current members, and chamber members.
🍎 Aug. 15 - Free Kids' Summer Lunch: Fuel up for summer fun! Reed Memorial Library invites children ages 1-18 for FREE lunch and activities on August 15. Meals provided by Community Action Council at 167 E Main St, Ravenna.
🎭 Aug. 16 - FSL Festival!: Discover Greek life opportunities at the FSL Festival! Join the excitement at Tri-Towers Rotunda on August 16 to meet fraternities and sororities, play games, and learn how to get involved at Kent State.
🍻 Aug. 16 - Brew & BBQ Bash: Sizzle and sip at the Brew & BBQ Bash taking over Streetsboro City Park on Saturday, August 16! The summer's hottest event returns with craft beers and mouthwatering barbecue, presented by the Visitors Bureau and VFW.
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