Around Ravenna: Spreading the joy of music at this year's Balloon A-Fair

- Angie Reedy

I was very impressed at the Ravenna Balloon A-Fair when I heard singing and violin playing coming the from the tent next to the Historical Society's tent. I was very curious, so I went to talk to the young man.

Owen Hoopes
Owen Hoopes posing with his violin at this year's Ravenna Balloon A-Fair. Angie Reedy/The Portager
His name is Owen Hoopes, 16, and he was home educated. He works with his parents and younger brother, Isaac, on the family farm. Owen began playing the violin at four years old and currently studies violin at Mount Union University and plays in the Alliance Symphony Orchestra, as well as the Tuscarawas Philharmonic Orchestra.

He has also been invited to participate in the Cleveland Youth Orchestra for the 2026-27 season.

"This is my first year as a member and I'm excited to experience this wonderful opportunity," said Owen.

His brother Isaac, who also began playing violin at age four, and Owen are working to help their family raise the money to build what he calls a Music Barn on their farm. "This building will serve as a family-friendly venue to share the joy of music and foster the development of practical life skills, facilitating a strong local community," he said.

"I aspire to live my life providing nourishing foods, raised traditionally without chemicals and apart from big agriculture, while also inspiring and aiding others with beautiful music," said Owen.

Anyone interested in making a donation to the Music Barn may send it to P.O. Box 245, Malvern, OH 44644 or for more information, email Owen at mhoopes@protonmail.com.
Cutline: Owen Hoopes playing the violin at this year's Ravenna Balloon A-Fair.


It's that time of year again. The Auxiliary of University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna will host their annual Celebration of Lights. This is a very meaningful way to honor those no longer with us as well as celebrating those who continue to enrich our lives.

It will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 2, at our local hospital, starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call 330-297-2549. If no answer, please call back or leave a number to call.

This is a program near and dear to my heart, so I'm hoping you will consider this. All proceeds go to the hospital for equipment.


Contact Angie Reedy at 330-297-7228 with your Ravenna news.

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Opinion

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— By Laura Nethken

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