🚧 Road trip pause

Good morning, Summit County. Mark your calendars and plan your routes—Cleveland-Massillon Road is taking a brief hiatus next week. The two-day closure between Stimson and Brenner roads (March 18-19) might temporarily disrupt your commute, but those rock cut repairs are ensuring safer travels for years to come. While detours will guide you along Summit Road and Wadsworth Road, access to homes and businesses will remain open throughout the construction window.

On the infrastructure front, Summit County is proving itself ahead of the curve in the nationwide push to eliminate lead water pipes. While Cleveland faces the daunting task of replacing 176,000 lines before the EPA's 2034 deadline, Akron has already tackled nearly all of its 50,000 lead pipes since the 1960s. Meanwhile, the Summit County Jail is taking a proactive approach to addiction treatment with a $187,000 grant funding a full-time coordinator to help break the cycle of substance abuse that affects three-quarters of inmates.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Akron

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Cuyahoga Falls

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Stow

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Barberton

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Green

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Hudson

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Tallmadge

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Macedonia

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Twinsburg

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Norton

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Munroe Falls

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Fairlawn

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚧 Cleveland-Massillon Road faces two-day daytime closure next week. Summit County Engineer Alan Brubaker announced the closure between Stimson and Brenner roads will occur March 18-19 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The temporary shutdown is necessary for rock cut repairs, though access to homes and businesses will be maintained throughout the work. Detours will be posted along Summit Road and State Route 261 (Wadsworth Road) to guide motorists around the construction zone. All scheduled work remains subject to weather conditions.

🚰 America's toxic water pipes must go by 2034. A new EPA rule requires cities to replace all lead water pipes within 10 years to protect public health. Akron leads the way, having replaced nearly all 50,000 of its lead lines since the 1960s with fewer than 1,400 remaining. Meanwhile, Cleveland faces the biggest challenge with 176,000 lines left to replace, while Cincinnati and Columbus are also working on their replacements. Each line costs between $3,000 and $8,000 to replace, with the Biden-Harris administration investing $2.6 billion in the nationwide project.

💉 Summit County Jail tackles addiction crisis with $187,000 grant. Sheriff Kandy Fatheree will use the funds to hire a full-time Addiction Services Coordinator to assess and treat inmates with substance abuse disorders. An estimated 75% of Summit County inmates struggle with addiction, significantly higher than the national average of 65%. The new coordinator will prescribe medications, develop treatment plans, and create re-entry strategies to prevent relapse after release. This proactive approach aims to reach inmates "at their lowest point" and provide the treatment needed to break the cycle of incarceration.

Affordable comfort with backyard haven: Priced at $311,000, this cozy home offers a fireplace, natural color scheme, and functional kitchen, plus a primary bedroom with walk-in closet and a fenced backyard for outdoor relaxation.

Massive Goodyear land bargain deal: Bargain land package in Goodyear Heights offers 10 parcels for $59,500, including 9 buildable lots totaling 1.22 acres with potential 15-year tax abatement for new construction through the Community Reinvestment Area Program.

Loaded Turnkey Moneymaker Available: Priced at $110,000, this North Akron turnkey investment opportunity comes with an existing tenant, recent major upgrades, and pulls in $1,205 monthly with the tenant covering all utilities.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎸 Mar. 13 - Kindred Valley Folk Rock: Kindred Valley brings their captivating blend of Americana and Folk Rock to The Rialto Theatre on March 13. Catch these West Virginia natives alongside QUITR as they share Appalachian-inspired stories through music.

🍛 Mar. 13 - DC Curry Comedy Night: Laugh your way through the evening with DC Curry at Edwin J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall! Join the comedy fun on Thursday, March 13 at 7:30 PM for a night of non-stop entertainment.

🎸 Mar. 14 - Conway Brothers Blues Fusion: Groove to fresh blues, funk, and soul as The Conway Brothers team up with Navingale and Daniel Rylander at The Rialto Theatre on March 14. Akron-born siblings bring their homegrown talent to Kenmore Blvd!

🍁 Mar. 15 - Maple Sugar & Pancake Festival: Indulge in a sweet spring tradition at the Maple Sugar Festival and Pancake Breakfast on March 15. Savor fresh maple treats as the sap flows at 2686 Oak Hill Rd, Akron.

👩‍💼 Mar. 15 - Women Who Shaped Summit: Celebrate Women's History Month with the Inclusion & Belonging Committee as they spotlight the remarkable women who shaped Summit County. Join the conversation March 15, 9-10am at Uniontown's Central Administration Building.

🎭 Mar. 15 - Jon Reep Comedy: Laugh until your sides ache with comedian Jon Reep at E.J. Thomas Hall in Akron! Catch his hilarious performance on March 15 at 7:30 PM for an evening of non-stop comedy.

🍁 Mar. 16 - Maple Sugar & Pancake Festival: Indulge in a sweet spring tradition at the Maple Sugar Festival and Pancake Breakfast on March 16! Savor fresh syrup and fluffy pancakes as the sap flows at 2686 Oak Hill Rd, Akron.

☘️ Mar. 16 - Gaelic Storm: Stomp your feet to Celtic rhythms as Gaelic Storm brings their energetic performance to Goodyear Theater on March 16! Catch these renowned Irish musicians at 7:30 PM in downtown Akron.

🙏 In Remembrance

Richard Stephen Novitsky

Richard Stephen Novitsky, 94, passed away on March 11, 2025, after a life dedicated to family, career, and faith. A Cleveland native and Notre Dame graduate, he worked for General Tire for 35 years and was married to his late wife Mary Lou for many years, raising five children in Akron. Richard was deeply involved with Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, serving as a lector and choir member. He is survived by his five children, two sisters, ten grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, with funeral services scheduled for March 21 at his parish church.

Kelly Lynette Wright

Kelly Lynette Wright, 63, passed away on March 5, 2025 following a short illness. After graduating from Manchester High School in 1979, she worked in auto sales for 44 years, most recently at Auto Nation. She is survived by her brother Kevin, uncle David, ex-husband Hal, many friends, and her pets Cali and Peanut. Known for her beautiful smile and loving soul, Kelly was preceded in death by her parents, boyfriend David, and best friend Sheri.

Doreen A Staats

Doreen A. Staats, 80, passed away on March 9, 2025, after living in the Cuyahoga Falls area since 1969. She dedicated 29 years to serving in the kitchen at Country Place Nursing Home (now Altercare of Cuyahoga Falls), and cherished family gatherings and storytelling. A woman of strong faith, she was a lifelong Methodist church member, and is survived by her husband of 60 years, Leonard, as well as her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A visitation and funeral service will be held on March 14, 2025, at the Clifford Shoemaker Funeral Home.

Renee Harnack

Renee Harnack, 67, passed away on March 9, 2025, in Canton, Ohio, after being born in Martins Ferry, Ohio in 1958. She devoted her career to caring for others, working for over 20 years at Ash Family Dentistry providing daycare services, and previously as a nursing assistant at local hospitals. Known for her warmth, infectious humor, and uplifting spirit, Renee brought joy and comfort to everyone she met. She is survived by her three brothers and their families, several aunts and cousins, while being preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, and an aunt and uncle.

Angeline Sarah Romeo

Angeline Romeo of Akron, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on March 3, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on November 21, 1930, she was a devoted family member who enjoyed music, singing, cooking, and time with loved ones. She was known for her strength, determination, selflessness, and strong faith. Angeline is preceded in death by her parents Angelo and Cecilia Fabrizio and her sister Patricia Seroka, and is survived by her children Ellen, Dominic, Carlo, and Angelo, along with grandchildren Nicole Romeo and Jonathan Ziga.

Donna J. Manning

Donna J. Manning, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home in Akron, Ohio, where she was born on May 8, 1935. She built a fulfilling career as a restaurant and kitchen manager, known for her culinary talents and ability to create warm, welcoming environments. Donna leaves behind her sons William and Timothy, their wives, seven grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren, though she was preceded in death by her parents, daughter Cathy-Sue, son Michael, and granddaughter Jennifer. Family and friends will celebrate her remarkable life on March 15 at the Dunn-Quigley Funeral Home, followed by interment at Greenlawn Cemetery.

Richard Allen Skraba

Richard A. Skraba, 71, of Tavares, Florida, passed away on March 1, 2025. Born in Barberton, Ohio and raised in Norton, Ohio, he moved to Florida with his mother in his later years. After graduating from Akron University with a degree in accounting, Rick devoted his entire professional career to working for Summit County, Ohio. He was cherished by all who knew him and will be deeply missed by family and friends, with no services planned for his remembrance.

Lynn K. Pitz

Lynn K. (Corpening) Pitz, 77, of Barberton, Ohio, passed away on March 8, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of selflessness and creativity. A Norton High School graduate who worked as an Administrative Assistant, Lynn enjoyed various hobbies including gardening, camping, and volunteering, but was especially passionate about crocheting gifts for others. She had a lifelong devotion to cats and is survived by her daughter Lisa, son David, brother Bruce, several grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter Lucy. A Celebration of Life will be held on March 23, 2025, with the family requesting donations to One of a Kind Pets in lieu of flowers.

Mary Judith Jamieson

Mary Judith (Judy) Jamieson, 85, passed away on March 10, 2025, in Stow, where she had lived since 1971. A retired Alltel representative and member of Holy Family Catholic Church, Judy enjoyed the Cleveland Indians, bingo, and collecting Coca-Cola memorabilia. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, James, along with four children, a sister, a brother, thirteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Services will be conducted by Fr. Felix Silagan on March 14, 2025, at Greenlawn Memorial Park - Ivy Chapel, with calling hours the previous day at Redmon Funeral Home.

Barbara Ellen Blackwell

Barbara Ellen (Sparks) Blackwell, 86, passed away peacefully on February 21st, 2025, at her home in Akron, Ohio, surrounded by family and hospice care. A lifelong Akron resident and Garfield High School graduate, she worked in retail cosmetics and was an active member of First United Methodist Church choir. Barbara achieved 50 years of sobriety through AA just days before her death, touching many lives through her service and fellowship. Known as "Mother Sparkle" for her humor and ability to make others feel special, she was passionate about art, baking, Christmas decorating, and rescuing stray animals. She is survived by her son David, with no services planned per her wishes.

Jean Antoinette DeLuca

Jean Antoinette DeLuca (July 29, 1942 - March 7, 2025) passed away in Canton, Ohio, leaving behind a legacy of love and unwavering faith. Known for her vibrant, outgoing personality and spiritual nature, Jean had a remarkable ability to create lasting connections with those around her. She found joy in family gatherings, storytelling, and the peaceful beauty of nature, particularly in countryside settings. Jean is survived by her partner Bob Croskey, four daughters, nine grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, and numerous other family members who will remember her courage in surviving stage 4 lung cancer and carry forward her enduring spirit.

Joanne Anderson

Joanne M. Anderson, 81, died peacefully on March 4, 2025, at Altercare of Alliance with her family by her side. Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 AM on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Rose Hill Funeral Home in Akron, Ohio. A funeral service will follow immediately after, from 11:00 AM-12:00 PM at the same location. Complete obituary details, along with options to share memories and condolences, are available at www.rosehillbp.com.

Elizabeth Anne Brunner

Elizabeth 'Anne' Brunner, 95, passed away on March 10, 2025, surrounded by family at the Village of St. Edward. Born in Akron on May 13, 1929, she was a devoted parishioner of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church for over 60 years and an active member of several church societies. Anne enjoyed golfing, traveling, and playing card games with her husband Al, who preceded her in death. She is survived by her blended family of four children, eight grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren, with a Mass of Christian Burial scheduled for March 14 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church.

Garland David Viovode

Garland David Viovode, 66, passed away on March 8, 2025, after a long struggle with health issues. Born January 1, 1959, as Cleveland's second baby that year, Gary was a skilled chess player who also worked in housing construction. He demonstrated compassion by donating a kidney to his sister and caring for his mother in her final years. He is survived by his brother William and three nephews, while his parents and two sisters preceded him in death.

David C. Woodhall

David C. Woodhall, 80, of Akron, died peacefully at home on March 8, 2025. A Field High School graduate, he worked at Goodyear until retirement and was a longtime member of First EC Church of Akron. He is survived by his wife Velma of 46 years, six children, eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and three siblings. Services will be held on March 13, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home with burial at Hillside Memorial Park.