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- The Hudson Scoop - 05/23/2025
The Hudson Scoop - 05/23/2025
Playground progress, weekend plans, and big hometown pride.

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š Ready, Set, Scoop!
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Memorial Day weekend is here, and Hudsonās got everything going onāplayground victories, lacrosse domination, heartfelt tributes, and just enough sunshine to risk patio seating. This edition is jam-packed with hometown pride, weekend plans, and a few reasons to raise a glass (or two). Hereās whatās inside:
- āļø The Scoop on Hudson Weather: A little sun, a little raināclassic Ohio long weekend vibes.
- š¢ Sponsor Spotlight: Want to reach a plugged-in, local-loving audience? We've got a spot just for you.
- š° City Council Recap: A jam-packed meeting with big decisions, big honors, and one very happy dance.
- š£ļø National Road Trip Day: 3 weekend-worthy escapes from Hudson.
- š· National Wine Day: Sundayās forecast: 68% chance of Pinot and patios.
- š¶ Summer Concert Series Begins: Live music on the Green kicks off with Jazz and good vibes.
- š The Scoop To-Do List: Memorial Day parade, food drive, Blossom Time Festival, and a Hall of Fame worthy rib cook-off.
- š„ Girls Lacrosse Rolls On: Big playoff win puts Hudson two games from the state championship.
- š¾ Tennis Glory for Henrique Sa: Four years, four titlesānow thatās how you wrap a high school career.
- ā¾ The Hooks Win Big: Corpus Christi team brings home the hardwareāand turns heads with an unassisted triple play.
Ready to Scoop when you are. š
āļø The Scoop on Hudson Weather
Get ready for a classic Memorial Day weekend forecast: a little bit of everything, and always a reason to keep an extra layer nearby. From showers to sunshine, weāre riding the full spring spectrum.
- š§ Today (Friday), May 23 ā High 52° / Low 46°
Light rain in the morning, then just gray and breezy. (A good excuse for a second coffee run.) - āļø Saturday, May 24 ā High 58° / Low 45°
Cloudy skies but dry ā perfect āwalk the dog and judge your neighborsā mulchā weather. - ā
Sunday, May 25 ā High 63° / Low 44°
Some sunshine finally makes a guest appearance. (Celebrate accordingly.) - āļø Monday, May 26 ā High 68° / Low 53°
Mostly cloudy for Memorial Day, but at least it will be dry. (Time to fire up that grill!) - š§ Tuesday, May 27 ā High 64° / Low 53°
Rainās back in the mix. (Ideal conditions for canceling plans you didnāt want in the first place.) - š¦ Wednesday, May 28 ā High 63° / Low 52°
Showers taper off in the morning. (A great day to show off your waterproof shoes.)
Wrap up the month with layers, umbrellas, and cautious optimism. Hudson weather likes to keep us humble.
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š° Fresh Off the Clocktower
š City Council Recap ā May 21, 2025
Buckle up, Hudsonāthis weekās City Council meeting was a doozy in the best way possible. Packed with heartfelt tributes, big community wins, and a standing ovation-worthy decision about our cityās first inclusive playground, this one had it all.
Hereās the scoop:
š Honoring Our Heroes
The meeting kicked off with two honorary resolutions. First up: Officer Brian Battaglia, who was honored for 25 years of dedicated service to Hudson. From launching the bike patrol unit to proposing the Honor Guard, Brianās impact has been wide and lasting. His emotional speech touched on everything from scouting roots to riot patrols to a brand-new role building skilled trades programs for local students. Hats off, Brianāyouāre a legend.
Next was John Niemczura, recognized for his pivotal role on the Military & Veterans Commission. He helped reboot the Memorial Day parade, enhanced Veterans Day programs, and brought new energy and heart to recognizing our local service members. Even after moving away, John made it clear: Hudsonās still home.
šŗ Poppy Day & Tiny Bikers Doing Big Things
Two proclamations followed. The first officially declared May 23 as Poppy Day in Hudson, supporting the American Legion Auxiliaryās annual tradition of honoring fallen soldiers.
Then came a well-deserved spotlight for Trike and Bike Hudsonāa fundraiser run by pint-sized pedalers (ages 3 to 12!) supporting pediatric cancer research. With more than $1.25 million raised over the years, this little ride has made a huge difference.
š² Sidewalks, Safety, and Student Speakers
Public comment was buzzingāespecially around the long-discussed sidewalk extension on Ravenna Street. Residents young and old (shoutout to student speaker Asher Jones!) passionately explained how much safer and more connected the area could be with sidewalks in place.
The Council heard the message loud and clear and later approved the design work as part of the consent agenda. Letās get those sidewalks rolling!
š Inclusive Playground Decision: Oak Grove, Here We Go
After weeks of passionate debate, Council officially voted 6ā1 in favor of Oak Grove Park as the site for Hudsonās inclusive playground. It wasnāt an easy choiceāBarlow Farm had strong community backing, but in the end, the Park Boardās recommendation, safety concerns, and parking availability tipped the scales.
Some key takeaways:
- The city pledged to cover any funding gap from the general fund if needed.
- Concerns about the Halloween Haunted House at Oak Grove were addressedāCity officials and JCās leadership are already in talks about collaboration and coexistence.
- The playground is now on track for completion by June 2026.
- Expect plenty of signage, landscaping, and promotion to make Oak Grove feel like the celebrated, inclusive destination itās meant to be.
Linda OāNeil from the Park Board summed it up best: āWeāre going to do something really great for this community.ā And yesāshe did promise a happy dance.
š§¾ Other Highlights:
- Townhomes restricted: Council passed an ordinance limiting townhomes to District 5 (downtown core), citing consistent public pushback in other areas.
- Job creation win: A new grant agreement with Keltech LLC was approved, promising job growth and new payroll in Hudson.
- CRAs & grant programs: Council approved continued community reinvestment area agreements to support ongoing economic development.
- Marijuana facility ban: A second reading of a permanent prohibition ordinance was heldāvote still pending.
And thatās the rundown! From a community-driven playground breakthrough to kids advocating for sidewalks, this meeting was peak Hudsonāthoughtful, passionate, and future-focused. Big thanks to everyone who spoke, emailed, or just showed up. Your voice is shaping whatās next.
Weāll keep watching what unfoldsāand yes, weāll let you know if Linda follows through on that dance! š
š National Road Trip Day: 3 Weekend Adventures from Hudson
Today (Friday), May 23 is National Road Trip Day, the official kickoff to summer travel season. Started in 2019 by Pilot Flying J, it celebrates the freedom of the open road, the joy of a great playlist, and the thrill of discovering something new just a few hours from home.
To help you celebrate, here are three road trip-worthy spots you can explore this weekendāeach one within driving distance from Hudson and loaded with fun.
š Big Laughs & Big Tap Numbers in Columbus
Head to the Garden Theater in Columbus for The Drowsy Chaperone, a five-time Tony-winning musical comedy thatās equal parts send-up and celebration of classic Broadway. A lonely narrator drops a record on his turntableāand suddenly a 1920s musical comes to life, complete with gangsters in disguise, over-the-top dance numbers, and a chaperone whoās had one too many.
Catch it this weekend with matinee and evening shows Saturday and Sunday, plus more performances next week.
š Garden Theater ā 1187 North High Street, Columbus, OH 43201
šļø Buy tickets here.
šļø Local Flavor & Finds in Pittsburgh
The Markets at the Terminal in Pittsburghās Strip District offer a lively outdoor shopping experience every Saturday from 11 AMā3 PM through October. Browse handcrafted goods, sample local snacks, and enjoy music from DJ Breis Gordan while you soak up the city atmosphere. Itās free to attend and perfect for a walkable day trip.
š Strip District Terminal ā Smallman Street from 16th to 21st Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
š More info here.
šæ A Peaceful Nature Escape in Toledo
The Toledo Botanical Garden Metropark is more than just a gardenāitās a 60-acre blend of art, nature, learning, and play. Explore themed gardens, stroll through the Artisan Village (home to the regionās largest public sculpture collection), or wander the Secret Forest, a whimsical childrenās playscape tucked among the trees.
Perfect for nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and curious little explorers alike.
š 5403 Elmer Drive, Toledo, OH 43615
šŖ“ Learn more here.
Pick a direction, cue the playlist, and roll the windows downāroad trip season has officially begun. š£ļøāØ
š· Well Hudson, We Couldnāt Not Mention This...
Sunday, May 25 is National Wine Day, and honestly, this one practically writes itself.
Itās the perfect excuse to pour a glass, gather with friends, or sit on the patio with your favorite vintage and zero plans. A day to toast the grape, the growers, and the good times that tend to show up around a bottle of wine.
Looking to celebrate in town?
- Lager & Vine GastroPub & Wine Bar ā A go-to spot on West Streetsboro for wine lovers and foodies alike. The wine list is strong, the scratch kitchen is always solid, and the patioās calling.
- Downtown 140 ā Tucked away downtown, this cozy and elegant spot serves up great pours in an intimate setting. Itās refined, relaxed, and ideal for anyone looking to sip in style.
So swirl, sniff, and sip away, Hudson. š· Youāve earned it.
š¶ Summer Sounds Are Back at the Hudson Bandstand
Grab your lawn chairs and mark your calendarsālive music is back on the Green! The 2025 Hudson Bandstand Concert Series kicks off soon, bringing another season of free, family-friendly performances right in the heart of downtown.
This year's series starts with a Memorial Day performance from the Hudson High School Jazz I & II bands on Monday, May 26, followed by Wishgarden on Sunday, June 1, and 3 Birds and the Wire on Sunday, June 8. From classic rock and big band to jazz, soul, and more, there's something for every kind of music lover.
Concerts are totally free, and the vibe is pure Hudson: laid-back, local, and full of community spirit. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and enjoy the show under the stars.
You can view the full concert schedule and event details right here.
Let the music (and the summer) begin! š·š³šø
š The Scoop To-Do List
šļø Memorial Day in Hudson: Parade, Tribute, and Community Pride
Mark your calendars for Monday, May 26āHudsonās annual Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony is back, and itās one of the most meaningful mornings of the year.
The day begins with three salute fireworks, courtesy of American Fireworks, to signal the start of the parade at 10:00 AM. The route begins at Milford Drive and travels through the heart of Hudson, ending at Markillie Cemetery for a remembrance ceremony.
Important heads-up: Road closures along the parade route will begin before the fireworks, so plan your parking and arrival time accordingly. It gets busy quickly, and once things start rolling, streets will be blocked off for safety.
Hereās what to know:
- š Salute Fireworks: Fire at 9:45 AM, 9:55 AM, and 10:00 AM
- šŗ Parade Start: 10:00 AM sharp from Milford Drive
- š Ceremony Location: Markillie Cemetery (410 N. Main Street) at 11:15 AM
- š¶ Featuring the Hudson High School Marching Band and Military and Veterans Commission
- š¤ Keynote Speaker: Ms. Mallory Crabtree, daughter of the late Sergeant First Class Daniel Crabtree, a Green Beret who gave his life in service during Operation Iraqi Freedom
Bring your chairs, your flags, and your gratitude. Itās a day to honor those who gave everythingāand to stand together as a community that remembers.
š Fill the Ambulance This Saturday for Hudson Families in Need
This Saturday, May 24 from 10 AM to 2 PM, Hudson EMS will be out in Acme Plaza collecting non-perishable donations for the Hudson Food Pantry. Itās a simple, powerful way to support neighbors who could use a little extra help right now.
Theyāll be accepting all kinds of shelf-stable food and essentials, but some of the most-needed items include:
- Mac & cheese, canned pasta, and dry pasta
- Peanut butter, canned chicken, pork & beans
- Coffee, tea, and shelf-stable milk (almond, soy, oat)
- Gluten-free mixes, nuts, honey, and oil
- Deodorant and other personal care basics
No time to shop? No problemācash donations will also be accepted on site.
Stop by and help Hudson EMS fill that ambulance with care. š
š” Blossom Time Blooms in Chagrin Falls This Weekend
Looking for a classic small-town festival to kick off Memorial Day weekend? Blossom Time is back in Chagrin Falls, and itās packed with carnival rides, live music, food trucks, a big Sunday parade, and plenty of small-town charm.
Starting Friday and running through Sunday, the streets around Riverside Park come alive with all the festival favoritesārides and games for the kids, the Taste of Chagrin food vendors in Triangle Park, and live music under the Big Top Tent. Itās a full weekend of energy, sunshine, and snack runs you didnāt plan on.
Sunday brings two major highlights: the Blossom Time Run in the morning and the Grand Parade at 2 PM. Expect crowds, music, and lots of candy flying through the air.
If your weekendās looking open, this is a fun one to drop into. You can swing by for an hour or stay all afternoonāeither way, it's a great way to soak up the start of summer just a short drive from Hudson.
Full schedule and event details can be found here.
š„ Football, Fireworks & Finger-Lickinā Ribs in Canton
Looking to spice up your Memorial Day weekend? The 2025 Hall of Fame Ribs Burnoff is back at the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton starting tonight (Friday, May 23) through Sunday, May 25āand itās serving up serious summer energy.
Itās free to attend, packed with live music, award-winning BBQ, and appearances from the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025: Eric Allen, Jared Allen, Antonio Gates, and Sterling Sharpe.
Hereās whatās in the mix:
- šø Daily concerts from bands like New Wave Nation, Sugar Creek, and Rockhouse
- š Eight ribbers battling it outāincluding returning champ Uncle Baconās BBQ
- š Fireworks on Sunday night to wrap it all up with a bang
And for a meaningful touchā$1 from every alcoholic drink sold goes to Wreaths Across America.
It all goes down at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Times are:
- Today (Friday): 3ā10 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 11 AMā10 PM
Full details and band schedule available here. Bring your appetite, your stretchy pants, and maybe some Wet Ones.
š Roll Hud Recap
š„ Girls Lacrosse Keeps the Wins Coming!
Hudsonās Girls Varsity Lacrosse team just added another W to their undefeated season ā beating St. Joseph Academy 20ā7 in Tuesdayās playoff match. Talk about domination.
Next up? A regional semifinal showdown with Strongsville on Tuesday (May 27) at 7 PM. The exact location is still being finalized.
Hereās where we are in the playoffs: this next game puts us just two wins away from the state championship. If the girls take down Strongsville, theyāll head to the state semis the week of June 3ā4, with the championship game on June 7 at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus.
The energyās high, the sticks are hot, and Hudson is showing up strong. Letās keep cheering them on all the way to the title! š
š¾ Henrique Sa Serves Up Another Title
The boys tennis team made a strong showing at the Suburban League Championship, landing a solid fourth-place finish overallāand one senior stood out in a big way.
Henrique Sa claimed the First Singles Championship, taking down his Solon opponent with a dominant 6-1, 6-3 win in the finals. This isnāt just another win for Saāitās his fourth straight singles title in as many years. Thatās a clean sweep of league titles across his entire high school career. Legendary.
Other highlights from the tournament:
- š Matthew Galosi placed 7th in second singles
- š Frederick Li grabbed 4th in third singles
- š Blake Sladky & Raphi Botros finished 3rd in first doubles
- š Brady Stec & Chase Pinnow came in 6th in second doubles
Big congrats to Henrique and the entire team on a strong finish to the season! šš¾ #AceCity

The Corpus Christi Hooks Make Hudson Proud
ā¾ The Gary Gough Classic: Corpus Christi Hooks Bring the Heat
The Gary Gough Classic, hosted each year by the Kiwanis Club of Hudson, is more than just a baseball tournamentāitās a hometown tradition. Created to honor Gary Gough, a dedicated community member and champion of youth sports, the tournament has become one of the biggest baseball weekends on Hudsonās calendar. Teams from all over come to compete, connect, and show off their skills on the diamond.
And this year, one local team stood out in a big way: the Corpus Christi Hooks took home the championship for their divisionāand they did it with style.
Letās talk highlights:
- Knox Knittle pulled off an unassisted triple play (yes, really!) and launched a home run.
- Casey Dittoe led the team in both hits and runs.
- Calvin Sugar locked down the field and earned Defensive MVP honors.
The Hooks are coached by Pat Dittoe, Brandon Knittle, and Dan Pucci, and we bet they're still smiling because this roster is packed with all-star talent:
- Knox Knittle
- Casey Dittoe
- Joey Pucci
- Calvin Sugar
- Vinny Trolio
- Brayden Zak
- Logan Zak
- Cody Bucur
- Owen Bucur
- Austin McCann
- Decker Resh
Congrats to the Hooks on a big wināand a big moment in one of Hudsonās favorite local traditions. š
#RollHUD!
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š Consider Yourself Scooped
From heartfelt tributes and a landmark playground decision to lacrosse playoffs, Memorial Day parades, and an unassisted triple play (still not over that)āthis edition brought the buzz, the pride, and the weekend plans.
Thanks for reading and making Hudson feel like more than a placeāitās a hometown full of heart. If you enjoyed this edition of the Scoop, share it with someone who thinks āthree cups of coffee before 9 AMā is a reasonable lifestyle.
Until next time...
Support local, spread kindness, and stay awesome. š
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