Portage County • August 18, 2025
Good morning, Portage County. History comes alive next Monday as 90-year-old Holocaust survivor Allan Hall shares his remarkable journey of "Hiding in Plain Sight" – literally within a building occupied by Nazi forces. His story of survival, immigration, and ultimately building a successful American life offers a powerful testament to human resilience. Those interested in attending the Beachwood event should RSVP promptly for what promises to be an unforgettable evening of living history.
The Cleveland Orchestra recently bid farewell to conductor Daniel Reith with a nature-inspired performance that had audiences enchanted. From percussionists swirling walnuts in "Rewilding" to Elgar's beloved character portraits, the concert celebrated both Cuyahoga Valley National Park and musical artistry. Meanwhile, local foodies have reason to celebrate as Maki House expands to Cuyahoga Falls, bringing affordable Japanese cuisine to Portage Crossing with special opening discounts starting August 18th.
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🕯️ Holocaust survivor Allan Hall will share his harrowing story of resilience. The 90-year-old lawyer and educator will speak at Congregation Mishkan Or in Beachwood on August 19 at 7 p.m. Hall's memoir "Hiding in Plain Sight" recounts his childhood experience surviving in Nazi-occupied Poland, where he spent two years hiding in a building occupied by the Luftwaffe. After immigrating to the United States, Hall built a successful career and family. Attendees must RSVP by email for this brotherhood event, which will include refreshments.
🎵 Cleveland Orchestra's tribute to national park enchants Blossom audience. Conductor Daniel Reith led his final performance featuring Gabriella Smith's "Rewilding," commissioned for Cuyahoga Valley National Park's 50th anniversary, alongside Bruch's Violin Concerto No. 2 and Elgar's beloved "Enigma Variations." The innovative "Rewilding" delighted with unconventional sounds including percussionists swirling walnuts and snapping twigs, while Assistant Concertmaster Stephen Tavani delivered a nuanced performance of Bruch's rarely-heard concerto. The evening concluded with Elgar's character portraits, creating a fitting farewell to Reith's tenure that celebrated nature, music, and friendship.
🍣 Japanese restaurant Maki House expands to Cuyahoga Falls. The new location in Portage Crossing shopping center will begin offering 20% off specials on August 18th. Owner Jason Sun, who has over 20 years of restaurant experience, opened his first Maki House in Green back in 2022. The menu features affordable Japanese cuisine including ramen, sushi bowls, and teriyaki plates with everything priced under $16. The restaurant will operate seven days a week, opening at 10:30am on weekdays and 11am on weekends.
Spacious oasis beyond the city: Priced at $284,900, this spacious Atwater split-level sits on two acres with dual garages, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, in-law suite, and a stunning custom pool area with hot tub, gazebo and multi-tiered decks.
Blank canvas awaits your vision: For $249,900, this listing offers a blank canvas waiting for your imagination to turn it into a dream home. The property lacks a description, so you'll need to visit to discover its hidden potential.
Vintage fixer-upper on acre lot: This vintage 1915 Aurora home is listed at $299,900, offering 2,600 sq ft with five bedrooms, four baths, and nearly an acre lot—but buyers should note it's sold "As-Is" with significant update potential.
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