Experience Akron Canton 2023

AKRON-CANTON

SMART MOVES

Meet the people who are glad they made Akron-Canton their new home.

Reasons We LOVE

Akron-Canton

EAT, SHOP, LEARN, LIVE ...ENJOY!

Summit, Portage, Stark, Medina, Carroll Counties and nearby communities—the best the region has to offer.

Rachel Hagemeier, President & CEO, Canton Symphony.

Moved from Edmond, OK to Cleveland in 2015, then to Canton in 2019.

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days a week, about each ART

On the Cover: Rachel Hagemeier, Story on page 25.

Photo by Bruce Ford

Published by LIVE Publishing Company.

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Principal Photography: Bruce Ford, except where noted.

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79 Marcus Biswa

They made the move to Akron-Canton. Let them tell you why. Photos by Bruce Ford

Photo by Bruce S. Ford

LOVE What I L e Ab t A -Cant

Dear reader,

I have a neighbor who’s busy every single second of every single day. She has a thriving design business and loads of friends with whom she’s always doing something. One weekend she’s glamping; the next, she’s performing at a club or paddleboarding on the Portage Lakes.

Personally, I think her life sounds a little more intense than I’m used to. I’m more inclined to stroll along the Towpath Trail, drink co ee on my back deck and see The Cleveland Orchestra at Blossom Music Center a couple times a season. But guess what? We both love it here. In Akron-Canton, you can create the life you want—no matter its speed.

When friends visit from out of town, they’re always amazed at how much there is to do and how little it costs to do it. Housing costs a fraction of what it does elsewhere. You can live in a glamorous downtown loft, on a leafy suburban street or out in the country. There are always tons of free or low-cost events. And let’s not forget our remarkable, diverse food scene. We have an astounding art ecosystem that supports everything from crafts at the library to sunset jazz at the Akron Art Museum. Our parks are like a jeweled necklace that adorns the region, anchored by the Cuyahoga Valley National park, the only national park in Ohio.

Your life is yours to create. Make it here. You’ll fit right in, whether you’re a native or a newcomer.

Mary Ethridge , senior writer and AkronCanton fangirl

Balloon Classic

PHOTO COURTESY OF TERRI BARBUSH

We Love it Here! Let Us Tell You Why.

Welcometo Akron-Canton. We’re not generally prone to bragging, but we’re the birthplace of many phenomenal people and things—LeBron James, DEVO, pro football and PURELL® among them. There’s a reason for that. We nurture innovation, cooperation and collaboration.

We’re a fun, slightly quirky, welcoming place to live—a unique confluence of history, hard work and heart that inspires love and loyalty in its people.

Come meet us and read some of the reasons we love Akron-Canton. Start here with LOVE and find MORE LOVE throughout the publication. Just follow the HEART.

1

We’re the hometown of the Goodyear blimps. The OGs. The ones you see flying over Super Bowls and World Series games. Currently, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has three U.S. ships. We often see them sailing the skies over Akron, headquarters of Goodyear since its founding in 1898.

The historic Airdock blimp hangar (c. 1929) on Akron’s east side is now being used by California-based LTA Research to build next-gen, zeroemissions airships to deliver humanitarian aid around the globe. The past, reimagined. 2

We’re Goldilocks-sized. Not too big, not too small. We have plenty of big-city attractions without the hassles. Plus, everyone waves hi here. 3

Pro football was born in a car dealership in Canton in 1920. A century-plus later, the city remains the game’s epicenter. The Hall of Fame Museum draws more than 200,000 visitors a year. But wait! There’s more!

The 200-acre Hall of Fame Village surrounds the football museum. It features the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium (home to the relaunched USFL), eight youth playing fields, Play Action Plaza complete with zipline and Ferris wheel, a retail promenade and

1 3

more attractions opening every day. The Village hosts numerous concerts, games and events each year.

a cool museum dedicated to the Akron kid himself.

4

The highlight of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival each August is the ceremony when inductees receive the Gold Jacket, the mark of a champion. The color is proprietary, and the formula is literally kept under lock and key.

♥ On the agenda in 2023: a medical and dental clinic across the street from the House and open to the community

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We have our own day. It’s March 30 (3-30), in honor of our area code. There’s a night of free, local music. Everyone wears their 330 garb and celebrates our particular place on the planet. Yes, it’s an area code. But we adore it.

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Greater Akron is a major site on the map of punk music. DEVO of “Whip It” fame and The Pretenders’ Chrissie Hynde are probably the most well-known of the punk/new wave musicians to come out of 1970s Akron, but they weren’t alone. The Village Voice put it this way in 1978: “Something is obviously going on out there.”

6

On 330 Day this year, a kid from Akron and his foundation scored big when they opened House Three Thirty, a stunning multi-use community space in a former iconic Akron restaurant. That kid from Akron happens to be NBA great LeBron James, and he’ll always be our hero for what he does off the court.

About 25 years after the punk thing, Akron’s Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney formed the blues-y rock band The Black Keys . They’ve gone on to be Grammy-winning rock stars. Their latest is Dropout Boogie, nominated for a Grammy for Best Rock Album in 2023.

Avenue downtown. Listen to blues, jazz, ’90s dance party hits, and New Wave. Check out George’s Lounge, Passion Blues, The Auricle and more.

♥ The LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF) partnered with the Akron Public Schools in 2019 to open the I PROMISE School for atrisk students in the district. It offers wraparound social services such as a food pantry and laundry area for its families.

♥ In 2020, LJFF opened I PROMISE Village, housing for the school’s families in transition.

♥ House Three Thirty is used for job training, family financial health programs, recreation and community building. Plus, there’s

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Akron’s indie/DIY music scene is massive, drawing people to favorite haunts such as Jilly’s Music Room, Buzzbin Kenmore and Musica or even to random people’s basements. And the PorchROKR festival, which takes place each August in Akron’s Highland Square, draws thousands of fans. Local bands literally play on front porches and lawns.

“Even before LeBron James gave the place a good name, Akron had a quietly flourishing hip-hop scene.”—10 Akron Rappers Who Should Be on your Radar, OkayPlayer.com

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If jazz and blues are your grooves, check out BLU Jazz+ and the Lock Bottom Blues & Jazz Club in downtown Akron or the Old 97 Café in downtown Kenmore. Or watch jazz master concerts at The University of Akron’s Guzzetta Hall

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The Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival is three days of cool at the end of summer. And the Downtown Canton Music Fest, one of the largest outdoor blues gatherings anywhere, takes places at Centennial Plaza downtown in September.

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The Canton Music Block hosts live music Friday and Saturday nights in venues along Cleveland

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We’re home to those who make what the music makers master.

♥ Mollard Conducting Batons

♥ EarthQuaker Devices (guitar pedals)

♥ S.I.T. Strings Co. (handcrafted strings)

♥ Panyard (steel drums)

♥ Audio-Technica U.S. Inc. (audio equipment)

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The Summit, 91.3, is an awardwinning adult alternative station and part of the Akron Public Schools. Its Studio C sessions are live performance at its best. Catch it streaming anywhere, all the time.

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The oldest Krispy Kreme store in the nation is on South Maple Street in Akron. The vintage sign reads, “Hot Do-Nuts.” Yes, please.

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The City of Barberton is awash in a purple haze. The high school team color is seen on everything, from buses to billboards.

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Ohio is considered the home of presidents. (We’ve had eight, thank you very much.)

The McKinley Presidential Library & Museum in Canton is dedicated to the 25th president. The McKinley National Monument in Canton is the final

Canton Blues Fest

resting place of President McKinley and his family.

22 A Canal Runs Through Us.

The Ohio & Erie Canal ran through our counties in the early 19th century, sparking business development along its route. Today, the Ohio & Erie Canalway is a National Heritage Area. The 90-mile Towpath Trail, which follows the original canal, is a favorite hiking and biking spot that winds through downtown Akron, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP) and south to Stark County’s Bolivar.

♥ Steph Curry, LeBron James , C.J. McCollum and Larry Nance Jr. of the NBA.

♥ Rita Dove, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and onetime U.S. Poet Laureate

♥ Marilyn Manson , performer

♥ Boz Scaggs , musician

♥ Trippie Redd and Ampichino, rappers

♥ Tom Batiuk , creator of “Funky Winkerbean” and “Crankshaft” comic strips

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Canton is also home to the First Ladies National Historic Site in the former home of Ida Saxton McKinley, wife of the aforementioned President. The site is home to the National First Ladies Library run by the National Park Service.

Parts of our original canal locks are visible along the Towpath Trail, and several have been repurposed. The Mustill Store Visitors Center in Akron is a restored general store. In Canal Fulton, visitors can take a ride on the St. Helena III, a real canal boat pulled by horses.

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We’re the birthplace or hometown of many talented Americans, including:

♥ The O’Jays , soul band

♥ Melina Kanakaredes , actress (CSI NY Providence)

, , 30

♥ Judith Resnik , Challenger astronaut

♥ John Lithgow, actor (The Crown, 3rd Rock from the Sun)

♥ Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney of The Black Keys

♥ Mother Angelica , religious leader

♥ Gold Jacket Hall of Famers: Marion Motley, Paul Brown , Len Dawson , Alan Page and Dan Dierdorf.

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We Have Our Own National Park. Ohio’s only.

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is 33,000 acres of natural magic along the Cuyahoga (Kai-uh-HOAG-uh) River. It had three million visitors in 2022.

No matter where you are in Greater Akron, the park, with its 125 miles of trails is less than 20 minutes away.

Here are some of our favorite spots in the CVNP:

♥ The Boston Mill Visitor Center in Peninsula has a cool, 3-D tabletop map of the park that will help you orient yourself. They also have a gift shop. Yay!

♥ The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs between Akron and Peninsula. Download the Train Tracker app to monitor the train’s progress or listen to an audio tour of the park as you ride. You can even travel one way and hike back. Or board with your bike and pedal home.

♥ The Ledges Trail is a 2.2-mile route through an ancient geologic formation of mostly sandstone, near Peninsula. Catch the sunset from the Overlook.

♥ The Inn at Brandywine Falls , overlooking the 67-foot Brandywine waterfall, was built in 1848 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s been lauded by the likes of the AARP and CNN. Or check out the Bridal Veil and Blue Hen waterfalls.

“The backdrop, a landscape etched by glaciers and carved by the crooked Cuyahoga River, provides a lesson in Midwest modesty: It’s striking but not excessive. Photogenic, but you won’t hear it bragging.”—AARP: The Magazine.

♥ Silver Creek , lake area near the boathouse

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The Akron soul has a totem of sorts. It’s a 350-year-old burr oak used by Native Americans as a guidepost when portaging between the Cuyahoga and Tuscarawas rivers. Today, we call it The Signal Tree. Find it in the SMP’s Cascade Valley Metro Park.

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Summit Metro Parks (SMP) manages 16 parks, several conservation areas, four nature centers and more than 150 miles of trails. SMP is an active partner in major projects to improve our beloved Cuyahoga River, protect native species and educate the public about our environment. Plus, they do tons of fun stuff for families.

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In 1969, the Cuyahoga River was so toxic it caught fire. Today, it is sparkling and alive with kayakers, blue herons, insects and edible fish. Its turnaround is so remarkable the conservation group American Rivers awarded it its highest honor. There’s still work to be done. We’re clearing out old dams to allow the river to flow freely to Lake Erie.

The metro parks also have plenty of backdrops for the perfect selfie or IG post. Try these:

♥ The Don Drumm Sculpture “Sun Tracker” at the Valley View area of the Cascade Metro Park.

♥ Deep Lock Quarry, at the bottom rim near memorial bench

♥ Gorge, at the observation deck

♥ Sand Run , on the Mingo Trail bridge

We embrace our river’s history, tongues in cheeks. So, try the Burning River Pale Ale from the Great Lakes Brewing Co. , paddle with Burning River Adventures or grab a bike at Dirty River Bicycle Works at Northside.

41 Summit Lake on Akron’s southeast side was a turnof-the-century amusement park that turned into a toxic dump. Today it’s pristine and welcoming, thanks to a true community collaboration. Fish, canoe, picnic, hike on the Towpath or visit its new Nature Center

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The award-winning Stark Parks feature lakes, reservoirs

PHOTO BY ROB VAUGHN

PHOTO BY ROB VAUGHN

The Ledges at sunset

and more than 100 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails in 15 parks on more than 8,000 acres of land in Stark County. Whatever floats your boat or moves your feet, you’ll find it there.

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The Akron RubberDucks is our AA affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. Canal Park in downtown Akron is the team’s home. Watching baseball’s rising stars on a warm summer night with a bellyful of burgers is a slice of heaven. Fireworks, special events and mascots make it one of the best family bargains on the planet.

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Alcoholics Anonymous was born in Akron in 1935 when stockbroker Bill Wilson met Akron’s Dr. Bob Smith in the Gate Lodge of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. Dr. Bob’s home is now a museum. The Gate Lodge is also open to the public. Each June, recovering people make the pilgrimage to Akron to celebrate Founder’s Day.

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Akron was once considered the rubber capital because the major tire companies called it home. We honor that heritage in many ways, including our 12-foothigh bronze statue of a rubber worker downtown.

Rubber still lives here, just in a brainier way.

♥ The University of Akron was recently ranked the top polymer engineering program in the world. Yes, the entire world.

♥ UA is also home to the Center for Tire Research (CenTiRe), a consortium of researchers at UA and Virginia Tech as well as industry members and the National Science Foundation.

PHOTO BY JIM CARNEY

♥ The new $21 million Bridgestone Americas Advanced Tire Production Center (ATPC) opened in 2022, supporting the Firestone brand’s role as the sole tire supplier of the NTT IndyCar series.

♥ The ATPC campus is graced by the iconic red Firestone sign that for decades lit up the original Firestone Plant One on South Main Street.

♥ ContiTech in Fairlawn, a division of Continental, is one of the leading suppliers of technical rubber products and plastics technology.

♥ Nexen Tire America Inc. relocated its U.S. headquarters to the area in 2021, near the company’s existing technical center.

♥ Tire giant Goodyear anchors Akron’s east side with its global headquarters, a stone’s throw from where it was founded 125 years ago.

♥ In the past 20 years, several smaller players, including Hankook Tire America , Kumho America and Kenda , have opened technical centers in the Akron area.

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We’ve mentioned tires and AA, but check out these other things AkronCanton has given the world:

♥ LIFE SAVERS ®

♥ Dum-Dums® (Spangler Candy Company)

♥ The vacuum cleaner (Hoover)

♥ The Cozy Coupe® (Little Tikes)

♥ PURELL® Hand Sanitizer (GOJO Industries)

♥ Twinkle Polish® (Malco)

♥ The Frog Sandbox® (Step2)

♥ DayGlo Paint® (RPM)

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♥ Rust-Oleum® (RPM)

♥ Wound golf balls (B.F. Goodrich)

♥ P.F. Flyers (B.F. Goodrich)

♥ Liquid Crystal Displays for watches (KSU)

♥ Toy marbles (S.C. Dyke)

♥ First space suits for U.S. astronauts (B.F. Goodrich)

♥ Root Candles (A.I. Root)

♥ Blue Tip matches (Ohio Match)

♥ The paper negative (Abel Fletcher)

♥ Tapered bearings (Timken)

Other Greater Akron-Canton inventions include:

♥ Grade levels in schools

♥ Quaker Oats

♥ Police patrol wagon

♥ Iris-recognition systems in ATMs (Diebold Nixdorf)

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The largest collection of cat fancy memorabilia in the nation can be found at Alliance’s Feline Historical Museum, home of the Cat Fanciers’ Association and its related foundation.

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When in Kenmore, you’ll enjoy the fun and funky shops and cool neighborhood vibe, but keep an eye out for the elusive Grassman, the area’s own version of Big Foot. Sightings over the decades have drawn cryptozoological investigators from across the world. Why he (she?) is called Grassman has been lost to time.

watch empty-handed. After the film, stop in at coffee shop or hear an upand-coming band at Musica or Jilly’s “This midsize Midwestern city has more than its fair share of art, food and fun.”—Akron, Ohio: One of the Coolest Cities You’ve Never Been To— Choice Hotels

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The Akron Marathon race is an athletic extravaganza. It started out in 2003 with 3,500 runners. Since then, it has expanded to a multi-race series over four months with numerous blue-chip corporate sponsors. About 15,000 runners, along with 120,000 spectators, participate in the marquee marathon in September. The blue line that marks the Marathon route has woven itself into Greater Akron culture.

71 General hilarity ensues each spring when thousands of people converge on Hinckley in Medina County to celebrate the return of the buzzards (turkey vultures) that roost in the township’s ledges.

72 The nonprofit Nightlight Cinema in Akron’s emerging Historic Arts District shows cult, classic, indie and foreign films. It also has a bar and snacks, so there’s no reason to

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The Akron Art Library lets you borrow artwork by local and international artists. As a partnership between the Akron Art Museum and the Akron-Summit County Public Library, the art library engages the community with real art and artists.

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The Canton Arts District creates a vibrant downtown. It has numerous studios and galleries and more than 40 pieces of public art. Its monthly First Friday celebrations have live music and performances all year.

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The ELEVEN—a collaboration between ArtsInStark and the Pro Football Hall of Fame—is 11 pieces of art throughout downtown Canton representing 11 key moments in pro football.

SMART MOVE

PATTY DOWD SCHMITZ

National First Ladies Library at the First Ladies National Historic Site, President & CEO

Grew up in North Canton, moved to Chicago, and moved back to North Canton in 2020.

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The Troll Hole Museum in Alliance houses the Guinness World record troll collection plus more than 10,000 troll memorabilia items in artistic settings.

Biggest surprise: I lived in Chicago for the past 25 years and came “home” in 2020. I’m thrilled to see the renewal and growth that’s has occurred over the past decade. Downtown Canton is now a fabulous place to enjoy culture, fine dining and a night out!

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Hartville, a village of 3,000 between Akron and Canton, has nearly two million visitors a year, two-and-a-half times as many as the famed Guggenheim Museum in New York City. The village is home to the year-round Hartville Marketplace and Flea Market, the largest of its kind in Ohio.

Out of town visitor picks: The National First Ladies Library at the First Ladies National Historic Site, of course. Other must-dos are the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, Gervasi Vineyard, the Canton Palace Theatre, Massillon Museum, Stark Parks, Milk & Honey ice cream, Heggy’s for the best chocolate candy in the world, and Amish Country for antiquing.

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Most of the nation calls the stretch of grass between the sidewalk and street a tree lawn, but we call it a devil strip.

On the arts climate: Akron-Canton is culturally rich—art and history museums, classical music, ballet, theater, outdoor art and creative spaces.

Most adventurous, new experience: I left here in 1985 for college, and coming back 40 years later means there are so many new things to explore.

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The Akron Zoo is a lot like Greater Akron itself—big, but not too big. It has a thousand animals, yet it’s comfortably navigated in a day. Its Wild Asia exhibit—featuring red pandas, Sumatran tigers and white-cheeked gibbons—opened in 2021. Its new Underwater Explorer attraction takes visitors on a deep ocean dive, thanks to virtual reality headsets.

80 Every summer for 85 years, hundreds of kids swarm east Akron for the thrill of the hill. Derby Downs is the world headquarters of the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby and the site of the annual championship race and weeklong festivities in July.

The derby has been the subject of documentaries, feature films and even an episode of Bewitched (FYI: Season 3, episode 16). The track is also used for educational, community and corporate events.

81 For more than 100 years, the Akron Art Museum has showcased and supported the fine and applied arts. The museum’s unwavering focus on modern and contemporary art from 1850 onward has allowed it to

develop one of the finest collections of its kind in the country. Events in its galleries and garden fill the soul all year.

“Akron was built on tire production, but there is a lot of arts muscle covering the city’s industrial skeleton.”— Ohio Magazine

84 The University of Akron’s mascot is a kangaroo named Zippy. She’s one of only eight female mascots in the country. She may look adorable, but she can pack a punch. She became o cial in 1953. Happy 70!

85 Look

Canton Museum of Art’s collection focuses on American watercolors and works on paper from the 19th century on and contemporary ceramics from the 1950s forward.

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83 The annual Twins Days Festival in Twinsburg is the largest gathering of twins (and other multiples) in the world, drawing about 25,000 visitors as well as academic researchers who see it as a gold mine of info.

up! Greater AkronCanton is lucky enough to have two of the 1920s atmospheric theaters by renowned architect John Eberson still in operation. The ceilings of the Akron Civic Theatre and the Canton Palace Theatre are spangled with stars and clouds that move across the sky.

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81 PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AKRON/SUMMIT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AKRON/SUMMIT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Akron Art Museum

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The University of Akron’s steel drum band was one of the first such university bands in the nation and is flourishing today.

87 Akron’s Northside District is a hip residential, arts and entertainment area in what once was the city’s red light quarter. Luigi’s, an Akron landmark, anchors the district and Jilly’s brings in music fans. The Northside Marketplace mixes established retailers such as Rubber City Clothing® with startups. Cyclists hop on the Towpath Trail only 100 yards away. Northside Lofts provide elegant, urban living.

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The Balloon A-Fair has filled the September skies over Ravenna with colorful hot air balloons annually for 40 years. The festival celebrates one of the city’s first industries—toy balloons, which were manufactured by Oak Rubber Co.

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Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron is not named for some guy named Stan. Loosely translated from the Old English, Stan Hywet means “stone hewn.” That’s a reference to quarried property on which the 65-room mansion was built more than a century ago by a co-founder of Goodyear. Take a look. It’s routinely named one of the best historic home tours in the nation.

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The annual William Carlos Williams Poetry Competition at the Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) draws hundreds of entries each year from medical students/poets across the country. The humanities were built into the curriculum at NEOMED from its founding in 1973.

94 Kent State University’s Fashion School is consistently rated one of the top five in the nation and one of the best in the world. Its campus museum has more than 40,000 pieces of apparel dating from the 18th century to today.

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If you have a tuba, you’re welcome to join TubaChristmas. A music professor named Tucker Jolly founded the event more than 40 years ago. (Yes, that’s his real name.) It became so popular, Jolly launched TubaSummer.

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The North Pole is just a train ride away from Akron, thanks to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s North Pole Adventure. For six weeks during the holidays, families travel through the gorgeous valley to Santa’s workshop where kids can deliver their letters to Santa directly. Cookies, hot cocoa and magic are involved.

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The downtown Akron skyline includes old-fashioned grain silos. They were built in the 19th century by German immigrant Ferdinand Schumacher who had a crazy idea to market oats for breakfast (Quaker Oats). The silos and factory are now business offices and a University of Akron residence hall.

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There are 472 cherry blossom trees lining the Towpath Trail in Downtown Akron. This spring, more than 6,000 people enjoyed them and much more during the third annual Sakura Festival, the latest entry into the area’s enormous roster of festivities.

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We’re dishing it in AKC.

Backin the 1960s and 70s when our tire factories were humming, the Akron-Canton food scene was about as exciting as a steel-belted radial. But today we are a tasty, multi-cultural mix that provides a rich array of choices to please anyone from picky toddlers to exacting gastronomes. Whether Bhutanese or classic bistro, you’ll find cuisine to love here. Take it from some locals who share their favorite spots.

Nat Hans , blogger and mom, @akronfoodie

We have a lot of options for good food here, and there’s always room to grow. We have a lot of rising star chefs who do pop-ups around town but don’t have brick and mortar restaurants. And here are some places that are quintessentially Akron. They include the Diamond Deli, The Lockview and Crave downtown, Luigi’s in Northside, the Square Scullery on West Market Street, Gasoline Alley in Bath and Fred’s Diner on Home Avenue.

For families, I recommend Chameleon Café and Akronym Brewing downtown, the Akron Family Restaurant on West Market Street, Lock 15 Brewing Co. on North Street, and the Mustard Seed Market & Cafe

For special occasions, I like downtown’s Diamond Grille (founded in 1935) , the Square Scullery, which is opening a second location in North Hill, The Blue Door Cafe & Bakery in Cuyahoga Falls, Ken Stewart’s Grille on West Market, Lanning’s and Pitchfork , both in Bath Township.

For lunch on the fly, try Evelyn’s Co ee & Banh Mi (Vietnamese), Stray Dog Cafe in downtown Akron, the Valley Cafe in the Merriman Valley, Rice Paper Thai Cuisine in Fairlawn, Shawarma Brothers (Mediterranean) in Cuyahoga Falls and the Akron Oriental Store on South Arlington Street.

Floco Torres , Akron hip-hop musician, performer, graphic designer and community outreach director

The Noisy Oyster in the Merriman Valley has my favorite dry rub wings in the city, so I go there a decent amount. A “Sweet Melissa” (roast beef, Colby cheese, red onions, and roasted red peppers with creole honey mustard) at Diamond Deli in downtown is a must. Six Frank’s Hot Wings at Frank’s Place on West Market Street after a rehearsal or when I don’t feel like cooking on Sundays is another go-to. I just had Niko’s Sandwich Board in West Akron for the first time recently I’ll definitely be back there soon.

I can’t forget Social 8 , a neighborhood bar in the Valley. You can’t go wrong with anything on their menu. For special occasions, Edgar’s at Good Park Golf Course is a really nice atmosphere and great food. Akron Co ee Roasters on North High Street has the best co ee in the city. I like going in and seeing which artist is showing their work on the shop’s walls. The sta is great, and Albert is an OG cyclist, so I try to show love to ACR when I can.

Eliot Mostow, MD, Akron, dermatologist

For a good place to bring guests, I’d opt for Dante Boccuzzi Akron (D.B.A.) for its eclectic menu and great outdoor space overlooking Cuyahoga Valley. Ken Stewart’s in all its locations always serves exceptional quality food with outdoor seating too.

Trattoria Vaccaro has great food and wine with attention to service. I love Russo’s in Peninsula for Jambalaya that is genuinely spot-on, and it has a bar with an open kitchen.

My latest find is Khaao Macha Indian Fusion Resto Bar It’s a slightly odd location in the lobby of the Radisson in Fairlawn, but it has great food and enthusiastic owner. And I always love the patio at Edgar’s overlooking the Good Park Golf Course.

My favorite Portage Lakes spots include Dano’s Lakeside Pub for bar food and the view of Turkeyfoot Lake, the Blue Iguana Tequila Bar for fish tacos and other Mexican fare, and Smoke on the Water for brisket.

Shammas Malik , Akron mayoral candidate

For meeting people for co ee or a bite to eat, I like the Nervous Dog Co ee on West Market Street, Compass on East Market Street, Porchlight near The University of Akron, Artisan Co ee on Canton Road, Angel Falls Co ee Company in Highland Square (too much co ee!), the Mustard Seed Market & Cafe in Highland Square and Swensons drive-in.

For special dinners, I recommend Luigi’s in Northside and the Macaroni Grill in Montrose because we grew up going there. For ethnic food, I like the Sa ron Patch in Merriman Valley and Cilantro on South Main Street downtown.

Casey Juve , stay-at-home mom and volunteer

The Winking Lizard (Copley, Peninsula, Canton) is a great restaurant to go with kids. They have a real lizard to visit inside and my kids love getting popcorn for the table and playing games. Also, they have a good assortment of food and drinks for the family to enjoy. For special occasions, we

FORAGE

usually go to Ken Stewart’s Tre Belle. The food is incredible, and it has a warm ambiance. Kids are welcome there too!

I don’t drink coffee but love Café Arnone in Fairlawn for pastries and gelato. They also serve dinner some nights, which is a variety of pizzas and salads. Wine and beer are also available. It’s a great family-owned restaurant. They recently opened Sal’s Gelato in the Merriman Valley.

For lunch, the West Side Bakery at the Akron-Fairlawn border has a great to-go selection of sandwiches, and the Mustard Seed Market & Cafe in Highland Square is a great healthy lunch and dinner spot with a nice patio when the weather cooperates. Beau’s Market & Deli in Copley is our absolute favorite. It has the best sandwiches in town!

Sarah O’Neill , former school interventionist and stay-at-home mom

I typically recommend D.B.A. in Northside because the food is great, and I like the upscale vibe of the restaurant. It’s also fun to pop over to the Speakeasy next door for an after-dinner drink. Another spot we love is Trattoria Vaccaro. The pizza is amazing.

For a treat, I love Café Arnone’s gelato and I plan to make their new Sal’s Gelato in the Merriman Valley a frequent stop for our family. I also pop into the West Side Bakery for one of the brownie cookies. They are so delicious and, well, everything there is so good.

A girl’s night out stop would be the Mustard Seed Market & Cafe in Highland Square in the summer. It’s lovely sitting on the outside patio enjoying some organic food and a delicious cocktail. They also have live music on weekends.

My kids love going to either Rockne’s or the Winking Lizard in Fairlawn

Carla Chapman , chief diversity officer at Akron Public Schools

When I think about a special dinner, I think about steak. There’s something about a good steak that is special for me. A good cut from Fleming’s is the best. My girls’ night out spots tend to be the Perfect Pour in downtown Akron, Marques on the East End or The Mustard Seed in Highland Square. When my out-of-town family visits the Akron-Canton area, we usually make it a point to go to Krispy Kreme for donuts.

My go-to for the best Pho Soup in town is the Taste of Bangkok on East Exchange Street, near The University of Akron campus. When I feel sick, I call them for a quick pick-up order. I instantly feel better after the first few bites of the homemade broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CANTON FOOD TOURS

Canton Food Tours Offer s City’s Cuisine and Culture

Fun, food, adventure and learning are the guiding principles of Canton Food Tours, a decade-old business that highlights Stark County’s best restaurants with generous sides of local history, art and culture. Entrepreneur Barbara Abbot launched the business as a way to marry her love of food with passion for her hometown.

It’s been a big hit from the start. To date, she and her team have taken thousands of people on tours of Canton area restaurants.

Abbott’s most popular tour is The Hall of Fame City Food Tour, an evening walkabout in the downtown Canton Arts District. It takes a little more than three hours and four stops, which vary from tour to tour. At the restaurants, participants get curated entree small plates—something the restaurant wants to showcase—which could mean a seasonal dish or longtime fan favorite. They get to meet the chef and restaurant staff. The stops are choreographed so the food is served quickly once the group is seated. Drinks are an option, and since Canton is one of a handful of cities in Ohio to have a “DORA” (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area), guests can take those beverages with them on their walk.

A highlight of the tour is a visit to Bender’s Tavern (the oldest restaurant in Canton) for a cup of its trademark turtle soup and a seasonal dish. Other restaurants on the itinerary may include George’s Lounge for burgers, Lucca for farm-to-table Italian dishes and the intimate Mélange

Along the way, the tour guide—either Abbott or one of her staff — points out interesting landmarks and shares historical facts. Abbott likes to remind visitors that the William McKinley Presidential Library & Museum , the First Ladies National Historic Site and the Pro Football Hall of Fame are within three miles of each other—a do-able walk in decent weather.

The food scene in Stark County is diverse and vibrant with one-ofa-kind spots such as Gervasi Vineyard in Canton and the Hartville MarketPlace and Flea Market

Among the “musts” for newcomers are old favorites such as Bender’s and Taggarts Ice Cream parlor, as well as unique standouts such as the Kennedy’s Bar-B-Que, which has a smoker adjacent to the restaurant. A visit to The Still House at the Gervasi property wows with its architecture patterned after a 17th century Italian church.

Canton Food Tours are offered Mondays through Saturdays with four restaurant stops. Taxes and restaurant staff gratuities are included in the price, which is $68 per person for a day tour and $75 in the evening. She’s had groups as small as two and as many as 50, and she can even do bus tours. She customizes the tours as the client wishes. Abbot is currently expanding her brand and business into other cities, including Akron and Minerva.

To find out more about Canton Food Tours, visit the website at cantonfoodtours.com or call (330) 495-0929.

MORE LOVE

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The unmistakable scent of roasting nuts wafts down Main Street from the Peanut Shoppe, a downtown Akron stalwart since the 1930s. If you’ve never had fresh warm cashews on a cold day, you haven’t lived.

97 Sauerkraut balls are to Greater Akron what wings are to Buffalo or cheese steaks are to Philly. No holiday party is complete without the treat of deep-fried meat and sauerkraut. And every self-respecting Cantonian loves a Bittner from Taggarts Ice Cream Parlor and Restaurant. It’s ice cream swirled with chocolate sauce and salty pecans. Bliss in a dish.

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Other Greater AkronCanton treats include:

♥ Stricklands Frozen Custard

♥ Barberton chicken (greasy, juicy and served with fries and “hot” rice)

♥ Luigi’s cheese-smothered salad

♥ Skyway’s SkyHi burger

♥ Bender’s turtle soup (with a shot of sherry!)

♥ Swensons’ Galley Boy

♥ Norka Soda (Akron backwards. Five flavors)

♥ Steak at Baker’s Café 33

♥ Square pizza from Pizza Oven

Barb Abbott, creator of Canton Food Tours

TOAST

Gervasi Wine Cave

Uncork

Here’s to a sip and a sunset. From the rolling fields at The Winery at Wolf Creek to the waterside decks at Pick’s at Portage Lakes, there are plenty of locations serving luscious libations made right here. With love, from us to you.

It may surprise you, but Canton—known best for pro football—has one of the most elegant wineries in the Midwest. Gervasi Vineyard Resort and Spa in Canton transports its visitors to Tuscany. Eat at one of its three restaurants and stay overnight at one of its romantic abodes. The newly opened Cave has expansive tasting and barrel rooms. The Still House highlights the vineyard’s spirits. Its new spa provides level-up luxury, bar none.

Gervasi is not alone. There is a wealth of wineries where you can sip and savor the Akron-Canton good life. Begin your adventure here.

The Winery at Wolf Creek

2637 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd., Barberton: Hillside vineyard planted with European grape varieties. Picnics welcome.

Sarah’s Vineyard

1204 Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls: Sustainable farming within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Handhewn beams, fireplace, gardens, local art for sale.

1875 Winery

109 State Rte. 44, Hartville: Named for the vintage, threestory barn it calls home. Two patios. No kids allowed.

Barrel Run Crossing

3272 Industry Rd., Rootstown: Fourth-generation family farm turned vineyard, orchard. Small plates, live music on weekends.

Nauti Vine Winery

3950 S. Main St., Akron: This place is also home to Mucky Duck Brewery. Watch the sun set over the Portage Lakes.

Maize Valley Winery and Craft Brewery

6193 Edison St. NE, Hartville: a 700-acre working farm, market, tasting room, café. Special events.

Silver Run Vineyard and Winery

376 Eastern Rd., Doylestown: Run by a husband and wife who’ve been in the business for nearly 20 years. Indoor and outdoor seating.

Filia Cellars

3059 Greenwich Rd., Wadsworth: Dry red from another family vineyard in California. Whites made in Ohio. Dog friendly. Snacks available or bring a picnic.

Michael Angelo’s Winery

5515 Broadview Rd., Richfield: Focused on small-lost varietals. Café style food, signature treats from its sister bakery.

White Timbers Winery

10036 Rittman Road, Wadsworth: Outdoor firepits, event space, child-friendly. Hot air balloons take off from nearby muni airport.

High & Low Winery and Bistro

588 Medina Rd., Medina: A high-tasting room with chandeliers; a rustic low-tasting room. Artisan deli. Events include live music and book clubs.

Sarah’s Vineyard

Winery at Wolf Creek

PHOTO COURTESY OF SARAH’S VINEYARD

PHOTO COURTESY OF AKRON/SUMMIT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Belly Up for Beers

The Summit Brew Path is back for its seventh year, highlighting breweries in Summit, Stark and Medina counties. Thousands take part in the weeks-long brewery challenge. All finishers are entered into a drawing, and the grand prize winner is announced at the Summit Brew Path Bash in January.

To see how the southerners do it, check out Hall of Fame Hops , the self-guided ale trail through the breweries of Stark and Tuscarawas counties.

If your taste runs more to the highly caffeinated, try The Drip Drive, a 20-stop trail through Summit County’s coffee country. Prizes—and lots of energy—are involved.

A SIX-PACK OF BEER FACTS

Hoppin’ Frog’s Smashing Honey Blonde took home a silver medal in the World Beer Cup, bringing the Akron brewery’s medal count to three.

In 2011, Chris Surak, co-founder, of EightyThree Brewery in Akron’s East End, won a golden ticket to Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. beer camp in California where he cut hop vines and brewed some magic with other winners.

The Wadsworth Brewing Company uses fruits, spices, coffees and other additions that give their beers a fun twist. All spent grains are given to farmers for feed. Missing Mountain Brewing Co. in Cuyahoga Falls, on the banks of our crooked river, got its name because its outdoors-loving founders realized the only thing missing from Northeast Ohio IS a mountain.

The Cave is all about the wine! Gervasi Vineyard is striving to deliver a world-class wine-tasting experience in a unique and intimate environment.

The Spa at Gervasi Vineyard is a haven of tranquility and rejuvenation. Take in vineyard views while enjoying The Spa’s luxurious atmosphere. Connect with your partner in our Couple’s Suite, indulge in a restoring body treatment, or simply unwind.

Akronym Brewing took an empty space between two buildings in downtown Akron and transformed it into a magical biergarten to complement the main taproom on East Market Street. It also has a public house in Medina.

HiHO Brewing Co. in Cuyahoga Falls got its name from the nieces of founders Ali and Jon Hovan. The girls always greet Jon with “Hi Uncle Ho.”

TheAkron-Canton craft brew scene is where fun is fermented. It’s absolutely hopping.

Eighty-Three Brewery

HiHO Brewing Co. Hoppin’ Frog PHOTO COURTESY OF EIGHTY-THREE BREWERY PHOTO COURTESY OF HOPPIN’ FROG

Unwind

On warm nights—and even some cold ones—the outdoor patios and bars of the Portage Lakes are a spirited place for spirits, from the cool, bluesy vibe of Smoke on the Water to the flip-flop, boat-up vibe of Picks. Ride in on your kayak, grab a cocktail and celebrate life in our water wonderland.

The Portage Lakes are a group of glacial kettle lakes that were once used to feed the Ohio-Erie Canal. Now, they’re used for fishing, boating, swimming, birding and general merrymaking. The area is anchored by the magnificent Portage Lakes State Park. Some people are lucky enough to live on the Lakes all year, but most of us just make a point of hanging out there. It’s the place where the vibe is always vibin’.

If you’re more into a cozy corner for your cocktail, no worries. We have those too, many of which feature locally distilled liquors. Sláinte!

LOVELY, LOCAL LIBATIONS

Ultimate Seltzer Mile

Ginger lime syrup, Tito’s vodka, lime juice, topped off with lime White Claw, garnished with mint leaves and dehydrated lime

Smoke on the Water 562 Portage Lakes Dr., Akron

Gin There, Done That

Gervasi Spirits small-batch gin, red grape and pomegranate juices, orange bitters

The Twisted Olive 5430 Massillon Rd., Green

Painkilla

Goslings dark rum, pineapple, coconut, orange, nutmeg

Northside Speakeasy 31 Furnace St., Akron

Let’s Go Bowling

Towpath vodka, Cynar, coffee liqueur, shaken cream, chocolate bitters

Merchant Tavern 1824 Merriman Rd., Akron

Memories of Summer

London Dry Gin, cucumber, elderflower, lemon, agave, orange bitters, lavender bitters

Crafted Cocktail Co. 995 High St., Wadsworth

Johnny Cash

Gervasi Spirits Wine Barrel Bourbon, grapefruit, Limoncello, Sawmill IPA float.

Gervasi Vineyard 1700 55 St. NE, Canton

SMART MOVE

BROOKE ZARCONI

Gervasi Vineyard, Spa Operations Manager

Moved from San Diego, CA to Canton, Ohio in 2022.

Biggest surprise: How beautiful the area is. Every season brings on a new beauty.

Out-of-town visitor picks: The Pro Football Hall of Fame, Gervasi Vineyard and Downtown Canton.

Day-off fun: I love to go out on the lake near my home on a boat or a paddle board. We love riding bikes on all the trails around the area.

On the business/nonprofit/arts climate: From what I’ve seen, exploring downtown Canton with all the art on the buildings and art structures is going to be fun.

Interesting local tradition: The NFL Induction at the Hall of Fame is something to look forward to!

Adventurous experience since relocating: Exploring new restaurants, getting to know the local favorites and enjoying some of the culture through the nightlife and events.

Favorite thing about relocating: Everything is so close—shopping, dining, events and concerts. I am three minutes from Gervasi Vineyard. which is my favorite place to enjoy!

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GERVASI VINEYARD

SHOP

Love to Shop?

Artisans Bring the Love

Our vibrant artisan community says a lot about the way we support small businesses in Akron-Canton. And lucky for shoppers we do. You’re going to find spectacular and unique works for sale here and even meet the people who made them.

Crafty Mart—a nonprofit that helps local artists, makers and artisans refine and showcase their creative businesses—holds regular sales at their Carbon Black space on the second floor of the Bounce Innovation Hub, housed in an old tire factory.

At Akron’s Northside District, you’ll find the spacious ZeberMartell Gallery & Clay Studio, which has everything from massive wall art to homey teapots. While in the District, visit the Northside Marketplace brimming with grass roots artisans, including Akron Honey and the Red Velvet Men’s Grooming Co.

Summit Artspace, an artist-community collaboration, anchors

Akron’s Historic Art District. Akron Soul Train , an arts residency program, has a funky store on South Main Street in the heart of downtown.

Make sure to travel to Don Drumm Studios & Gallery

We have the weird, the wonderful, the elegant and the elevated. near Drumm’s with craftsmen from across the country. On nearby Spicer Street, and

The University of Akron. The minute you enter its courtyard, you’ll feel the magic. Consistently honored as one of the top contemporary craft retailers in the nation, Don Drumm’s five thousand square feet is nearly overfl owing with jewelry, glass, sculptures and ceramics made by more than 500 of the fi nest craftsmen from across the country. On nearby Spicer Street, visit Akron Glass Works where you can learn glassblowing and buy one-of-a-kind pieces.

The Canton Arts District downtown has more than 20 studios and galleries enhanced by 44 pieces of public art. Make sure to stop by the extraordinary Joseph Saxton Gallery for stunning historic and contemporary photography.

downtown has more than 20 studios and by for

It’s Happening in Hartville

Hartville, a village of 3,000 between Akron and Canton, gets two million visitors a year, drawn by its retail scene. The year-round Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market is the largest in Ohio with acres of indoor and outdoor shopping and as many as 1,200 vendors. The Southside Market sells fresh produce, Amish cheeses, meat and gifts.

At more than 300,000 square feet, Hartville Hardware & Lumber is the largest independent home center store in the country. The Shops at Hartville Kitchen has everything from fashions to keepsakes. Get fresh-cut flowers at Bloom Hill Farm and sweet treats at Hartville Chocolate Factory

Our Vintage Shines

Whether you’re into 1960s Mod or Art Deco, our vintage stores have your vibe.

The Bomb Shelter in Akron’s Middlebury Neighborhood has furniture right off the Mad Men set, but it also has old cameras, hubcaps and more.

Zeber-Martell Gallery & Clay Studio

Twist at Northside Marketplace

Art from Don Drumm Studios & Gallery

The Bomb Shelter

PHOTO BY SHANE WYNN

PHOTO COURTESY OF AKRON STOCK

TEMPTING SHOPPING SPOTS

Lucky Shoes , Fairlawn and Canton. Founded a century ago, this place pairs old-fashioned service with the latest styles for the entire family.

Main Street Modern , Canton. A buyer and seller of highend, mid-century furniture and decorative arts. On three floors.

DeVitis Italian Market and Deli , Akron. In the heart of Akron’s immigrant neighborhood, the store caters to foodies of all tastes, but it specializes in classic Italian.

Stars-N-Stripes , Barberton. Military might is on display in this massive store with tactical gear, flags and everything else needed to celebrate the armed forces life.

Elizabeth’s Bookshop and Writing Centre, Akron. This bookstore is an innovative literacy center designed to amplify and celebrate marginalized voices.

The Peanut Shoppe, Akron. The delicious smell of roasting nuts will lead you to this downtown anchor in business since the 1930s.

Marigold Sōl in Akron’s Kenmore neighborhood revitalizes vintage furniture and home décor. It also sells curated supplies for DIY projects. Classes available.

Modern Traditions Co. in the Bounce Innovation Hub has fun and funky clothing and miscellany from every era.

City Brocante on Front Street in Cuyahoga Falls has jewelry, home décor and books from bygone eras. From 40s-era chic to 70s kitsch. Refreshed and ready for re-use.

HOUSE at Hudson has “well-traveled” furniture, décor as well as some new goods. Design services from owners Jean and Amy will help you mix vintage with new.

The upbeat and off beat collide at Arrowhead Vintage and Handmade Goods in the downtown Canton Arts District. The store describes its inventory as “genuinely weirdo stuff.”

Seville Antique Mall in this rural Medina County community has American primitive and folk art antiques from 30 dealers.

Hudson Has It All Hudson, one of the first outposts of the Connecticut Western Reserve, retains a charming East Coast feel. Check out The Learned Owl, a remarkable independent bookstore on three floors

The Toys Time Forgot , Canal Fulton. Feeling nostalgic? Find your favorite childhood toys and classic games in a collection that spans nine decades.

River Light Gallery, Peninsula. In this charming village, the gallery sells the works of more than 50 artists and artisans of Northeast Ohio in a rotating inventory.

Rubber City Clothing , Akron. In the Wallhaven district, this store celebrates all things Akron with its cheeky T-shirts, sweatshirts and gear.

Harps & Thistles Yarn Emporium , Cuyahoga Falls. With yarn in every color imaginable, this cozy store also sells hand-knitted goods and knitting items.

Blimp City Bike and Hike, Akron. Conveniently located off the Towpath Trail in the Merriman Valley, the store has e-bikes and regular bikes for sale and rent.

Molly’s Shop and Café, Akron. On the grounds of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, the store is filled with elegant jewelry, china, home goods and toys.

in the heart of town. The Grey Colt has been outfitting women in classic clothing for decades. First & Main , an outdoor lifestyle retailer with upscale chains such as Talbots and Chico’s , has been integrated seamlessly into the historic downtown.

Mosey in Medina

Medina, in one of the fastest growing areas of Northeast Ohio, retains its small-town charm thanks to the momand-pop shops that line its central square. The fl agship store of the A.I. Root Co. , one of the oldest and fi nest candle makers in the country, is a must-see. Miss Molly’s Tea Room and Gift Shop has expanded to include a boutique. Eastwood Furniture prides itself on its Amish-built quality. The Gardener’s Cottage off ers uplifting décor for home, garden, patio and porch.

Stroll Our Malls

In Fairlawn, Summit Mall has the only Apple store between Cleveland area and Columbus.

Belden Village Mall in North Canton has all the favorites, including Pink and Buckle

Aurora Farms Premium Outlets has bargains on name brands, including Coach and Michael Kors .

DIVERSIONS

Diver sions

Beexhilarated, entertained, enlightened. Whether you’re a fan of the arts or seeking fun with your kids, we’ve got you. The list below will get you started. Check ArtsNow.org, downtownakron.com or visitcanton.com for more.

“Where words fail, music speaks.”

—Hans Christian Andersen

The Cleveland Orchestra at Blossom Music Center—Sit on the lawn, drink a little wine and hear one of the world’s truly great orchestras.

Akron, Canton and Alliance

Symphony Orchestras—You don’t have to go far to hear inspiring music played by professionals. Visit a local park in summer to hear their free concerts—gifts to their home communities.

Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival

Concerts on the Towpath Trail and an annual three-day festival honor Akron’s rich jazz and blues history.

Tuesday Musical Association

Founded in 1887, it brings some of the world’s best music to the community. All students can attend concerts for free, and its Decompression Chamber brings concerts to high-stress environments.

Broadway at EJ Thomas Performing Arts Hall —Home to the Akron

Symphony and Tuesday Musical, E.J. Thomas hosts a series of Broadway shows that shouldn’t be missed.

“Dancers are the athletes of God.”

—Albert Einstein

The Ballet Theatre of Ohio —A classical ballet company that brings dance to all through educational outreach and performances.

Canton Ballet—A nonprofit arts organization founded in 1965, Canton Ballet comprises Ohio’s largest preprofessional performing dance company and a classical ballet school.

Ballet Excel Ohio —The nonprofit is one of the oldest youth ballets in the nation with dancers ages 8-18. Its educational outreach exposes thousands of students to dance each year.

The National Center for Choreography at The University of Akron—The NCC supports working dance artists as they engage in the creative process and advocate for the field.

“There is no ‘must’ in art because art is free.”

—Wassily Kandinsky

The Akron Art Museum —Focused on art from 1850 onward, the museum is free on Thursdays. Visit the inspiring Bud and Susie Rogers Garden. It has many community outreach programs for adults and children.

The Canton Museum of Art

The museum’s permanent collection focuses on American works on paper from the 19th century onward and contemporary ceramics. Admission is free on Thursdays. Check out the Downtown@Dusk concerts all summer.

The Kent State University Museum

Home to extraordinary collections of historic dress, fashion, textiles, and decorative arts. The museum is affiliated with Kent State’s topranked fashion school.

Massillon Museum —Known as MassMu, this is where art and history intersect. Check out its mini-museum about Paul Brown,

Lock 3

PHOTO BY GABRIEL ALEXANDER BLACK

the famous football coach and Massillon native.

The Emily Davis Gallery—This University of Akron gallery brings in exhibitions of contemporary artists and showcases the works of university students and faculty at the Mary S. Myers School of Art.

The Downtown Akron ArtWalk—Travel by foot or trolley to discover two dozen destinations for art appreciation (and shopping!).

The Canton Arts District—This downtown area boasts 30 art galleries, studios and specialty shops plus a wide range of public artwork on display.

“What is drama but life with the dull bits cut out.”

—Alfred Hitchcock

Ohio Shakespeare Festival —In the gardens of Stan Hywet Hall in summer or in graceful Greystone Hall in winter, this professional theater troupe brings the magic of Shakespeare and his

fellow playwrights to vivid life.

Weathervane Playhouse —Celebrating its 89th season, this community theater is designed to enrich quality of life and engage the community through performance and education.

Rubber City Theatre —In residence at The University of Akron, its storytellers create intimate productions in an intentionally accessible, inclusive and safe space.

none too fragile theater—Some of the edgiest theater you’ll find in Northeast Ohio, its Akron-based productions are always compelling.

QuTheatr Ensemble —This theatre project employs and empowers LGBTQ+ youth and young adults in Greater Akron.

Millennial Theatre Project—In residence at the Akron Civic Theatre, MTP’s shows are performed and created by young adults, bridging the gap between youth and adult community theater.

Porthouse Theatre —The theatre, affiliated with Kent State University, presents outdoor musicals and dramas on the grounds of Blossom Music Center. Picnic before the show.

The Nightlight Cinema —On Akron’s High Street, patrons can sip a drink and watch fascinating, independent films with like-minded folk.

Gum-Dip Theatre —Plays for, with and about our Akron community. Named for a step in the tire-building process.

SMART MOVE

RACHEL HAGEMEIER

Canton Symphony Orchestra, President & CEO

Moved from Edmond, Oklahoma to Cleveland in 2015, then to Canton in 2019. Biggest surprise: The number of worldclass artists—both visual and musical— astounds me.

Out-of-town visitor picks: Stark Parks for hiking, First Fridays and the Downtown Canton art galleries, live music at The Auricle, Sangria Stand and George’s!

Day-off fun: Shopping at Main Street Modern (or any vintage/thrift shop), paddle boarding, pickleball, a glass of wine at Gervasi.

On the arts climate: There’s an abundance of arts in Stark County. The arts have the potential to expand and thrive in the coming years if our community continues to support us through their patronage, donations, and telling our stories!

Most adventurous, new experience: Taking on the role of president & CEO of the Canton Symphony Orchestra. I am only 26 years old and have been in the field for about four years. My first job was being manager of education and community engagement for the CSO in 2019. To jump from being a manager to president & CEO came with a lot of challenges, but I have an amazing community and am able to succeed with their support.

Canton Ballet

Akron Children’s Museum

PHOTO COURTESY OF CANTON BALLET

PHOTO COURTESY OF AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

“It is a happy talent to know how to play.”

—Ralph Waldo Emerson

Akron Children’s Museum —With water tables, wind tunnels and monster makers, this downtown museum is the place for children to learn about the world while having a blast. The museum, at Lock 3 downtown, recently expanded. It now has a private party room, sensory room and redesigned makerspace, among other improvements.

Magical Theatre Company Based in a renovated, gem-like theater in Barberton, it is the only professional resident and touring theater for children in Northeast Ohio.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm —The park has three hiking trails, gardens, a suspension bridge and two ponds. An indoor center with exhibits, live animals and presentations allows visits to touch, listen and learn.

The Akron Zoo —The zoo sits on 77 acres, half of which have been developed into spectacular exhibits and gardens designed to bring visitors close to 1,000 animals from around the world. Its Wild Asia exhibit has Sumatran tigers, red pandas and white-cheeked gibbons. Kids love the tube slide through the otter exhibit at Grizzly Ridge. And check out the spray pad at Pride of Africa. Its gardens have 7,000 native plants. The zoo is easily navigated in a few hours. For those with sensory processing needs such as autism, it offers special tools and services. And the zoo recently received the Age-Friendly Seal of Approval from the Better Business Bureau, the first Ohio zoo to garner this recognition.

Wingfoot Lake State Park—Paddleboats, fishing, miniature golf, a massive playground and a clear view of the Goodyear Blimp hangar—what more could a kid ask for? Well, how about a Storybook Trail that takes them on a hike them through an engaging tale by a children’s author.

Like Live Music? We Have That.

Whatever your groove, you can get it on. Live and in person. What else would expect from the place that gave you DEVO, Chrissie Hynde, the O’Jays and The Black Keys?

In summer, head to the outdoor Blossom Music Center to see major tours such as Jason Aldean and Ne-Yo.

Looking for a smaller venue?

Visit the Akron Civic Theatre, the jewel on Main Street that draws groups like Straight No Chaser and Brian Culbertson. Next to the Civic in the historic Whitelaw Building, you’ll find The Knight Stage that seats 200, a perfect setting for an intimate show. E.J. Thomas Hall on The University of Akron Campus features international artists such as The King Singers.

The Goodyear Theater, once part of the famous tire company, seats 1,500. You just may find the likes of Nelson and Grand Funk Railroad playing there.

Each Friday and Saturday night all year, the Canton Music Block in downtown Canton reverberates with live music of all types. Buzzbin Art and Music Shop and George’s Lounge are definitely worth a stop. The Canton Arts District also has five live music venues among its many galleries and studios.

Rock the lock with your favorite tribute bands all summer at Lock 3 Park, the enormously popular amphitheater in downtown Akron.

At Jilly’s Music Room in Akron’s Northside and Musica (under the Dance sign on Maiden Lane) downtown, you can hear

the very best local and regional bands while sipping your favorite drink.

If you’re a jazz fan, head to BLU Jazz or the Lock Bottom Blues & Jazz Club in downtown Akron or the Old 97 Café in the Kenmore neighborhood of Akron. Kenmore is also home to the Rialto Theatre and the Akron Recording Company, which are run by musicians for musicians.

The annual Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival keeps the hep cats happy. Falls Downtown Fridays and Kenmore First Fridays help hard workers slide into the weekend with some of the area’s best bands.

And if you need the best homegrown music 24/7, stream it at the330.net, sponsored by 91.3 FM The Summit, which is operated by the Akron Public Schools. You’ll hear The Black Keys and DEVO, of course. But you’ll also discover new area artists you’re bound to love.

The McKinley Museum COURTESY OF THE MCKINLEY MUSEUM

Open Studio In the lobby of the Akron Art Museum, kids can develop their creative spirits. From sensory stations for babies to messy arts supplies school-age kids love, this artistic maker space is open weekdays. Serious artists are welcome too.

The William McKinley Presidential Library & Museum in Canton has all the things you’d expect of a presidential library, but it has kidfriendly surprises too. Its life-sized Street of Shops replicates a street from the late 19th century. Its Discover World is an interactive science center and Hoover-Price Planetarium has more than 60 projectors.

MORE LOVE

99The world-famous Cleveland Orchestra has its summer home at the Blossom Music Center, a lovely outdoor amphitheater. Blossom also hosts rock, country and indie concerts all summer presented by Live Nation. Pack a picnic or get food there.

100 The MAPS Air Museum in North Canton features artifacts, interactive exhibits and historical archives. It is a working museum that repairs and restores historical aircraft on site.

Blossom Music Center Akron Zoo

PHOTO COURTESY OF BLOSSOM MUSIC CENTER

PHOTO COURTESY OF AKRON ZOO

Akron Zoo Dragonfly Fountain by Mac Love, Art X Love

Arts Forward

takes courage,” said painter Henri Matisse. It also takes financial support, welcoming spaces and useful tools. Be you poet or printmaker, go ahead and get artsy. We’re here for it.

SUPPORT

The community is behind you.

In 2023, ArtsNow—the coordinating agency for arts and culture for Summit County— announced the launch of ArtsForward , a grant program to advance and implement the Akron/Summit Cultural Plan. The cultural plan, issued in 2020, outlines 10 specific priorities for advancing the arts in the area. Those include equity, placemaking and public art.

With support from numerous philanthropic partners, ArtsForward provides resources for artists and nonprofits in service to those priorities, which were identified in 2019 with input from all corners of the community.

“Arts and culture play a crucial role in the growth and vibrancy of our Summit County communities, and we are thrilled to partner with and serve our region as stewards of these resources,” said Nicole Mullet, executive director of ArtsNow.

ArtsNow also engaged Summit Artspace to serve as a support and resource for Summit County artists interested in applying for the grants. It held sessions this spring to outline the application process for artists and nonprofits.

ArtsinStark represents more than 900 cultural organizations and artists in Stark County with the guiding belief the arts and culture create new jobs, smarter kids, and healthier communities. It operates the Cultural Center for the Arts , downtown Canton’s cultural centerpiece and home to four resident companies: the Canton Museum of Art , Players Guild Theatre, Canton Ballet , and Sing Stark

Every three months, the Akron ArtWalk held in the Historic Arts District on Friday nights. Community members are invited to enjoy food, music, art, and more. Each ArtWalk has a theme that engages visitors with the arts in new ways. ArtWalk is always free and open to the public.

The Akron Soul Train is a fellowship program for artists and allies. Fellowships are generally one month but can be longer. It provides space, funding and time for artists; in turn they share their work and process with the public.

Curated Storefront commissions the creation and installation of public art throughout Akron, making the city a dynamic destination for urban art while supporting artists. The mixed-media installations are accessible to all. Tours

“Creativity

Collaborative Mural Painting

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ART X LOVE

and live-stream events engage the public.

Art X Love is a creative agency responsible for much of the public art around Akron. Since its founding in 2015 by Mac and Allyse Love, the company has hired more than 300 artists for projects designed to build community and connection. Its @Play Project produced interactive art in 24 of the city’s neighborhoods with the input of 9,000 residents.

SPACE

Find a place to express yourself. Summit Artspace is a community art center that brings together in one location some of the best local artists, arts organizations and educators. Its downtown studios are filled with quilters, potters, sculptors and more. It

also operates two artist enclaves in Barberton.

The Artists of Rubber City is a visual arts nonprofit founded in 1978 to connect the community to contemporary art and to connect artists to each other. Its BOX Gallery is on the third floor of Summit Artspace.

East Ave Market and Gallery aims to diversify Akron’s art scene by showcasing not only visual artists but also local poets, dancers and musicians from all walks of life.

Outside the Box is a series of up-cycled shipping containers in Northside that have been transformed into mobile art galleries and performance spaces with eye-catching murals by artists from around the

world. The inside of each shipping container is programmed with popup galleries, while the outside is set up to accommodate murals that can be changed out when new artwork is desired.

The Canton Arts District downtown is filled with more than 30 galleries and studios as well as restaurants, taverns and cafés. The First Friday party every month features live music and exhibitions. The district has a 69-acre Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area so visitors can stroll with drinks in hand. Take a tour of the city’s stunning public art—some football-related, some not.

The Bounce Innovation Hub is home to Avant Garden, a unique space where artists and makers produce and

Akron Makerspace

Akron ArtWalk

Kids Painting at Street Craftery

Akron on Deck playing cards by Mac Love

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AKRON MAKERSPACE

PHOTO COURTESY OF STREET CRAFTERY

PHOTO BY MAC LOVE, ART X LOVE PHOTO BY BRUCE FORD

showcase experimental and innovative art. Application is by invitation.

The Art Bomb Brigade uses creative placemaking to invigorate Akron with murals in high-traffic, public spaces. They pick a corner of the city and “bomb” it with art with the help of community members.

TOOLS

Create what you imagine; we have what you need.

Here are just a few things you can borrow from the Akron-Summit County Public Library

Cake pans

Binoculars

Original artworks (in conjunction with the Akron Art Museum)

Hot Spots

Double row tambourine

16 mm film projector

Vinyl archiving turntable …oh, and books and DVDs

The Library also has a TechZone that has professional audio and video recording studios, design computers, 3-D printers, laser engraver, media transfer station, vinyl printer and a crafting/sewing area that even has a button maker.

The Bounce Innovation Hub’s Workshop has an artistic focus, available not just for makers, but all creatives. It is membership-based, offering workspace and stateof-the-art equipment such as 3D

AKRON BLACK ARTIST GUILD SUPPORTS INCLUSIVITY

In 2021, with the support of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the Akron Black Artist Guild (ABAG) was formed to provide resources and opportunities for the city’s Black artists. Although the fellowship was conceived by the artists, it fits the leading goal of equity outlined in the Akron/Summit County Cultural Plan.

ABAG is part networking support group and part celebration. Within its fellowship, Black artists support one another and support Akron, and the community supports them in return. It’s also a celebration of the particular vision—and

its expression—that Black artists offer the world. Since then, it has solidified itself in the arts community through fellowships, workshops, events and projects, including:

A 30-day writing workshop for Akron’s literary souls;

The Art in the Park Collective, a collaboration with the Summit Metro Parks;

Participation in the First Annual Black Excellence Art Festival; and The Reimagine Fellowship, with pairs artists with neighborhoods in need of public art.

printers, laser cutters and photography equipment. It is ideal for Akron’s makers, crafters, artists and builders.

Akron Makerspace is a nonprofit coop that grew from two-car garage into a 10,000-square-foot space filled with equipment that ranges from artisan hand tools to industrial machines. Members get workspace and discounts on its classes and workshops.

CHAMP Makerspace in Canton is a nonprofit, community-based, collaborative workshop that allows members and guests to collaborate, share skills, and use the space in pursuit of creative projects. Tools range from 3-D printers and lathes to welders and routers.

The Bounce Innovation Hub

SPORTS

Our Sports Scene Sizzles.

These are just a few of the places to test your mettle whether you walk, run, ride or cheer.

Akron Marathon Race Series Presented by Summa Health

A blue stripe runs down Akron roads for miles—26.2 of them to be exact. It marks the route of the FirstEnergy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon and Team Relay, the marquee event of this race series now celebrating its 21st year. The series begins in June and ends with its capstone race in September. Funds raised benefit numerous non-profit organizations.

Regal Beagle Ultra Marathon

More than 250 runners turn out each November for this 50K run through wetlands, woodlands and hills in the Bath Nature Preserve. Proceeds benefit the preserve. Those whose expectations are a bit more modest can run a 25K or 5K.

Pro Football Hall of Fame Race Series

Four family-friendly walk/run events throughout the year conclude with a two-day celebration and half marathon in downtown Canton at the end of summer.

Up, Up & Away 5K by OrthoUnited

Part of the Pro Football Hall of Fame

Enshrinement Festival in summer, this race draws hundreds of runners, walkers, parents with strollers and trotters with pets. Hot air balloons, in town for the weekend’s Balloon Classic, float overhead.

Huntington Towpath Century Ride

A fundraiser for the beloved Ohio & Erie Canalway, a designated National Heritage Area, this 101-mile ride traverses the towpath trail from Settler’s Point in Cleveland to New Philadelphia or Massillon. Do it in one day or two.

Summit Metro Parks Fall Hiking Spree

Each fall, hundreds of hikers lace up their boots to log miles at 15 designated trails in the Metro Parks. Complete eight trails, earn a hiking staff or shield. It’s the oldest community hike of its kind in the nation. . . . or go fan-crazy for your favorite teams.

The Pros

The Cleveland Guardians—rebranded and renewed—play at Progressive Field, just a 35-minute drive from downtown Akron. It’s a fan-friendly ballpark, from its raised bullpens to its Kids Clubhouse. It’s been called one of the best ballparks in the nation.

The Cleveland Browns attract some of the most passionate fans in the NFL, win or lose. Just check out the insane Dawg Pound posse during the fourth quarter. Cleveland Browns Stadium on the shores of Lake Erie is a gorgeous place to see a game.

The Cleveland Cavaliers play at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, which underwent complete renovations a few years ago. It’s a full fan and family experience. It’s also home to the AHL’s Monsters, the top affiliate of the Columbus Blue Jackets hockey team.

The Akron RubberDucks , whose home is Canal Park in the heart of downtown Akron, is the minor league AA affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. Games, mascots, extreme food and up-and-coming players make the Ducks a budget-friendly blast.

Towpath Triology

Goodyear Half Marathon & 10K

PHOTO COURTESY OF CANALWAY PARTNERS

AKRON

MARATHON PHOTOS COURTESY OF AKRON MARATHON CHARITABLE CORPORATION

Legends of golf such as Ernie Els and Jerry Kelly take on the famed Firestone Country Club’s south course for the PGA Tour’s Kaulig Companies Championship in July. After play, families can enjoy concerts and great food. Proceeds benefit many local charities.

The NFL’s annual Hall of Fame Game takes place in in August in Canton, the birthplace of professional football. The game, at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, is part of the week-long festivities celebrating the induction of

the game’s icons into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

College

The University of Akron Zips: 17 varsity NCAA Division I teams in the Mid America Conference, including a nationally ranked men’s soccer team

Kent State University Golden Flashes: 18 varsity NCAA Division I teams, including football and men’s track and field, in the Mid America Conference

Malone University Pioneers , Canton: 18 varsity Division II teams in the Great

Akron Marathon Series Kids Fun Run

InfoCision Stadium, home of The University of Akron Zips

Senior PGA Tour at Firestone County Club

Midwest Athletic Conference, including recently formed men’s and women’s lacrosse teams

Walsh University Cavaliers , North Canton: 20 varsity Division II teams in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference, including football at Larry Staudt Field

University of Mount Union Purple Raiders , Alliance: 22 varsity Division III teams in the Ohio Athletic Conference, including a century-old and storied football team

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101

Renee Powell, the second AfricanAmerican woman to compete on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour, is head professional at Clearview Golf Club in East Canton. In 2011, she launched Clearview HOPE, dedicated to helping female veterans through golf.

102 The University of Akron’s men’s soccer team, perennially top-ranked, has cultivated many of Major League Soccer’s best players. There are 26 UA alums in the MLS this year.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME ENSHRINEMENT FESTIVAL

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CANTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Hall of Fame Marathon

Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival Balloon Classic

Canton Repository Grand Parade

Kent State Golden Flashes Women’s Basketball

NATURE’S WAY

Valley Overlook Canvas Cabin Glamping

Breathe!

TheCuyahoga Valley National Park, the only national park in Ohio, is our backyard. We have state, metro and city parks, rivers, lakes, ledges, paths, marshes and wildlife preserves—not to mention the 90-plus miles of Towpath Trail. There are more than 50,000 acres to soothe your soul.

You’re bound to be in your element.

WATER

The Portage Lakes

With their recreational, restaurant and entertainment options, the Lakes have a vacation vibe all year. The area is anchored by the 411-acre Portage Lakes State Park.

Rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard or bring your own.

Fish at Nimisila Reservoir, a peaceful place to plant a pole.

Reserve a weekend cabin on a private island.

Swim and sun on the Turkeyfoot Lake beach. Tour the lakes on a pontoon boat.

Jet ski on the East Reservoir.

The Cuyahoga River

A little more than 50 years ago, the Cuyahoga (kai-uh-HOAG-uh) River was so polluted it caught fire. (Not our best moment.) But today, it is an American Heritage River—sparkling, healthy and perfect for watersports.

The Cuyahoga River Water Trail, an Ohio Water Trail, is divided into five sections with varying degrees of difficulty. For details on access, visit cuyahogariverwatertrail.org

Rent a kayak (and paddles!) from Burning River Adventures and travel from Kent to Cuyahoga Falls.

Float the River in Cuyahoga Falls lets you and your friends tube down the river and then shuttles you back. floattheriver.net

West Branch State Park (5570 Esworthy Rd, Ravenna) The park’s 2,650-acre lake with its many forks and coves is popular with fishermen, swimmers and boaters with no limit on horsepower. Boat rentals, gas and supplies are available at the marina. ohiodnr.org

Summit Lake (411 Ira Ave., Akron) Once “Akron’s Coney Island” and then neglected, Summit Lake on Akron’s south side is renewed and now open for fun. Visit the Summit Lake Nature Center in an old pump house and then paddle around the highest point along the Ohio-Erie Canalway. Watch progress as the trail to connect the lake to the Towpath is built.

AIR

Grab the binoculars and meet the original tweeters. The various habitats of the Bath Nature Preserve attract Henslow’s Sparrows, Bobolinks and Eastern Meadowlarks.

The Coliseum Grasslands , Richfield, once the site of a sports arena that has literally gone to seed, is now home to Grasshopper Sparrows, Eastern Meadow Larks and Short-eared Owls.

Springfield Bog Metro Park , Akron, is a prairie habitat that draws Northern Bobwhites.

Hinckley Reservation has Swallows, Belted Kingfishers and Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.

You’ll find wild turkeys and migratory waterfowl at Walborn Reservoir in Alliance. Check out a nesting family of Bald Eagles from the observation deck.

Blue Herons, the largest Herons in North America, arrive in spring to nest in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Flutter By Here

The Butterflies of North America exhibit at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens puts visitors up close to several species, including the Monarch and Black Swallowtail. Species rotate through the summer. stanhywet.org

PHOTO BY JOE BLANDA

The Butterfly Waystation at Akron’s Northside Green is filled with native plants beneficial to bees and butterflies. The area features a colorful butterfly mural and butterfly-inspired furniture. There’s a place for outdoor performances too, thanks to a busking station made by EarthQuaker Devices. www.downtownakron. com/post/butterflywaystation

The Butterfly House at Beech Creek Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve in Alliance has more than 20 species of butterflies native to Ohio plus the plants that support them. beechcreekgardens.org

The Monarch Waystation at the Akron Zoo provides a resting place for this king of butterflies, which is losing its habitat at an alarming rate. The Waystation has several species of milkweed and other native plants to benefit pollinators. akronzoo.org

Fling It

Let your freak Frisbee fly at the region’s many disc golf courses. Here are a few. For a complete list, check out PDGA.org

Portage Lakes State Park , 5031 Manchester Rd., Akron

Silver Creek Metro Park , 5000 Hametown Rd., Norton

Roscoe Ewing Park , 599 Berkshire Dr., Medina

Boettler Park , 5300 Massillon Rd., North Canton

Hudson Springs Park , 7095 Stow Rd., Hudson

See Stars

It’s a beautiful universe. See it.

The Fairlawn Rotary Observatory at the Bath Nature Preserve is run by the Summit County Astronomy Club. It has 10 telescopes and dedicated volunteers to help with special viewing events. facebook.com/ summitcountyobservatory

PHOTO COURTESY OF CUYAHOGA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

Brandywine Falls

The Astronomy Club of Akron Observatory at Portage Lakes State Park (5031 Manchester Rd.) holds both scheduled and impromptu star-gazing gatherings. asaoh.org

The Fred F. Silk Planetarium at the Wilderness Center in Wilmot (9877 Alabama Ave. SW) holds public viewing nights the first Friday of every month. twcac.org

EARTH

Live on the Ledge

Much of Northeast Ohio’s unique geology is on display at our ledges— perfect for waterfall watching and sunset gazing.

Ritchie Ledges at Virginia Kendall Park: A photographer’s dream of the river valley. (1000 Kendall Lake Rd., Peninsula)

Whipps Ledges: Where the buzzards come home to roost (1039 Bellus Rd., Hinckley)

Worden’s Ledges: Crazy carvings in sandstone cliffs (859 Ledge Rd., Hinckley)

Liberty Park Ledges: Cliffs, caves and a boardwalk across wetlands (9999 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg)

Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park : Pass the Devil’s Icebox to see Cascade Falls (12440 OH-282, Garrettsville)

Gallop Along

If you want to see nature from atop a horse, you’ll have to bring your own. None of the parks rents horses, although there are many stables nearby that do.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Riders can take several trails, from short loops to a 4.5-mile, challenging run.

Silver Creek Metro Park: Ride two easy loops a little more than three miles each. (5000 Hametown Rd., Norton)

Walborn Reservoir: Enjoy a five-mile network of trails with views of the reservoir (11324 Price St. NW)

Headwaters Trail: Travel an eight-mile trail between Garrettsville and Mantua in Portage County (10647 Freedom St., Garrettsville)

Quail Hollow Park: This moderate fivemile trail is good for beginners (13480 Congress Lake Ave., Hartville)

Cycle It

There are hundreds of miles of bike trails in the Akron-Canton region. Get started here.

The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s Bike Aboard program lets you bike the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, then hop on for a relaxing ride bike. There are several stations. Cost is $5. cvsr.org

The Freedom Trail runs from the Portage County line to Union Street in Akron. It will eventually extend to The University of Akron campus. The Middlebury Trailhead in Kent is a good place to start (1324 Middlebury Rd.).

The historic Towpath Trail, which follows the path of the old Ohio & Erie Canal, is now more than 90 miles long. It will be 101 when finished. Bike it, hike it, love it. ohioanderiecanalway.com

Hampton Hills , Summit Metro Parks has seven miles of mountain biking trails with no pedestrians. (2092 Theiss Rd., Akron)

The 34-mile Summit Metro Parks Hike & Bike Trail follows the lines of an old railroad between Cleveland and Akron. Construction may be underway in some sections. Check summitmetroparks.org for details.

The Portage Parks District Hike & Bike Trail is the major east-west link between major regional trails. portagecounty-oh.gov

Reagan Park in Medina offers 10 miles of mountain bike trails from easy to advanced (855 Weymouth Rd.) medinaoh.org

Lace Up

Akron-Canton has oodles of amazing trails. Pick your favorite, whether you’re pushing a stroller or pushing your limits.

Springfield Bog Prairie Trail (1400 Portage Line Rd., Springfield) This gentle two-mile trail leads visitors through a thriving prairie, complete with boardwalks and an observation deck.

Tree Farm Trail (2075 Major Rd., Peninsula) This three-mile loop on a former Christmas tree farm has a scenic view of Horseshoe Pond.

The Gorge Trail (1160 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls) Old Maid’s Kitchen is an easy half-mile walk from the parking lot, but the trail quickly becomes rugged as it passes through stunning ledges.

Boston Run Trail (501 W. Streetsboro Rd., Hudson) Park at the Happy Days Lodge and take in the forested (namely birches, beeches, oaks) and moderate path.

Sand Run Trail (1300 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron) This popular trail on the west side runs along the parkway. You’ll see plenty of joggers and dog walkers. For seclusion, hit the park’s other trails.

FIRE

If a crackling campfire sparks your imagination, you’re in luck. Our state and local parks have several appealing campgrounds. And private properties nearby offer everything from simple shelters to full-out glamping.

Heritage Farms (6050 Riverview Rd., Peninsula). Camp on this 175-year-old Christmas tree farm in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley or stay in its quaint garden apartment.

Valley Overlook (4451 Akron Peninsula Rd., Peninsula. New on the scene,

Hampton Hills Metro Park Bike Aboard!

Stark Parks

Thrills and Chills

THRILLS

Mountain bike on the wild East Rim Trail in Peninsula, part of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Paddle the Cuyahoga River from the Oxbow Trail access point in the Cascade Valley Metropark (experienced paddlers only).

Jet-Ski on the East Reservoir at the Portage Lakes State Park.

Sled with speed and spectacular views at Firestone Metro Park in Akron.

Take on the Canal Corridor 100 Mile Endurance Run along the Towpath Trail. (Arrrgh)

CHILLS

Take a class in Mindfulness in Nature at the Summit Metro Parks.

Walk the Meadow Labyrinth at Crown Point Ecology Center in Bath Township.

Stand still to hand feed the chickadees at the Brecksville Nature Center.

Enjoy outdoor performances at the Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival in Akron area parks.

Borrow snowshoes at the Boston Mill Visitor Center for a quiet winter hike through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Valley Overlook

this spot on the old Camp Mueller offers serious glamping or primitive camping on 62 acres surrounded by the national park. valleyoverlook.com

@visitvalleyoverlook

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park (5550 Christman Rd., Green). This popular camping spot has 29 individual campsites with fire rings. Six have electricity; three are ADA accessible. Make reservations through ReserveAmerica.com or at the Park’s office (975 Treaty Line Rd., Akron).

West Branch State Park (5570 Esworthy Rd., Ravenna) The park has 29 full-service sites, including 13 with electricity. Showers, flush toilets and laundry available. ohiodnr.gov

The Rivers Edge Campground at the Bridgeport Quarry trailhead (3400 block Erie Ave., Massillon) welcomes those hiking/biking the Towpath Trail. starkparks.com

OPENMINDS

Opening Minds

Greater Akron-Canton has a school—from boarding to single-gender— to nurture any child.

TURNING INTERESTS INTO DREAMS

From the I PROMISE SCHOOL for at-risk learners to the International Baccalaureate program for the academically gifted, the Akron Public Schools (APS) has the right path for each of its 20,000 students. Its College and Career Academies of Akron (CCAA) has more than 400 community and corporate partners shaping and supporting the CCAA’s career-education model. Whether it’s automotive technology, dance or philanthropy, APS students explore, develop and pursue their interests in ways designed to support a successful adulthood. Students craft luscious desserts in commercial kitchens and repair faltering autos in their own full-fledged shop. They sing on stages and design on drafting tables. By graduation, they’re ready to fly.

And how about free college? Through the College Credit Plus, APS students can earn college credits while still in high school at very low or no cost for families. Some students are halfway through a bachelor’s program before high school graduation. That means fewer tuition bills for families down the line.

Akron Early College High School, on The University of Akron campus, is designed for firstgeneration college students. Students who have 60 earned college credit hours by high school graduation will earn an associate’s degree from The University of Akron.

Since a life of achievement starts early, APS’s Early Learning Program helps prekindergarten students get ready for school by teaching key academic measures, listening skills and more. The program integrates typically developing children and those with special needs, promoting greater acceptance by all.

FUN FACT: APS translates all its vital information for families into 47 languages.

FLIPPING THE SCRIPT

Summit Academy—a charter school in Akron serving students with ADHD and Autism— incorporates therapeutic martial arts into its regular curriculum. In the school’s dojo, where students learn martial arts movements and traditions, they also find focus, awareness, structure and selfconfidence. Sensei Chuck Rickard, who heads Summit Academy’s Therapeutic Martial Arts Program, believes martial arts can help anyone with daily life.

It all starts with a focus on breathing, which calms the mind and stops racing thoughts.

“From a martial arts standpoint, breathing centers attention and power on movements and tempers anxiety,” says Rickard.

Summit Academy students also learn the power of claiming personal space, something vital to many people with ADHD and Autism. They examine their comfort levels correlating to zones such as family zone, friend zone and stranger zone, according to Rickard. Students learn how to use assertiveness when their personal space is violated.

Structure runs deep in Summit Academy’s therapeutic martial arts classes. For instance, students bow when they enter the dojo. They arrive prepared to practice movements and do so within a designated space.

“Structure helps us complete tasks and builds routine into our schedules,” said Rickard. “Our students carry these strategies into their classrooms and home lives.”

FUN FACT: Summit Academy has two teachers in each classroom.

• A State of Ohio designated STEM school

• Governor Thomas Edison Award Winner for STEM Education, 4th Straight Year

• High Achievement, High Growth in Math, Science and Language Usage

• Technology consisting of iPads, Chromebooks and laptops

• SMARTboards in every classroom including kindergarten

• STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art and Math) lessons in every grade

• State-of-the-art Science Lab, Technology Learning Lab, Innovation Lab

• Auxiliary tutoring and classroom aides

• Our School Garden, an outdoor classroom for our students

• Before and After Care Program, Daily Hot Lunch Program

• Extracurricular programs such as Power of the Pen, Robotics and Drone Club, Genius Project, Lego Club, MathCounts, Gravity Racing Challenge, Student Council, Student Ambassadors, School Band, CYO Sports, Youth Ministry, Community Service Projects and many more.

* Scholarships and Financial Aid are available for all our students.

BRINGING SOME PUPPY LOVE

St. Sebastian Parish School, a faithbased Pre-K through 8 school in Akron, has been awarded The Ohio Governor’s Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education four years in a row. But among the school’s Chromebooks, iPads and beakers roams an incredibly valuable resource: Weller, a soft-eyed golden retriever.

Weller, who belongs to principal Anthony Rohr, has been enchanting St. Sebastian students and faculty since he was eight weeks old. Rohr said he’s always admired the work of therapy dogs, and the toll of the pandemic convinced him the time was right to bring a trained dog into the St. Sebastian fold. However, the bouncy, lick-prone pup who arrived in January 2022 was far from trained, so Rohr

and Weller went to work. Weller began his therapy dog training with many classes, completing two American Kennel Club programs along the way.

During his training, Weller’s interactions with students and families helped the dog develop and strengthen his skills. He greeted students, went on field trips, played soccer and sat with those who needed a little extra love. In March 2023, Weller completed his final test through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Weller and Rohr are now an official pet therapy team.

Puppy snuggles are free and open to all.

FUN FACT: St. Sebastian is the patron saint of archers and athletes.

therapy dog

All-Girls K-12 Co-ed Pre-School

The Elms is the only all-girls, faithbased school for grades 1 - 12 with a co-ed pre-school and Kindergarten in the Cleveland Diocese. Ranked as one of the top private schools in Summit County, they are known for their academic excellence and strong community.

Learn more at www.theelms.org.

OUTSHINING THE STARS

Hudson High School, Twinsburg High School and Revere High School in Summit County; Jackson in Stark County; Aurora High School in Portage County and Highland High School in Medina County were ranked among the top 50 public high schools in Ohio by U.S. News and World Report

Old Trail School, a co-ed, Pre-K through 8 school in Bath Township, is the only independent school in the country located in a national park.

Students at Akron’s Lippman School, a K-8 school founded on Jewish values, scored nearly two grades above their current grade on nationally standardized testing.

EXPLORING LIFE AND LITERATURE

Dating back more than 50 years, New Dimensions is an interdisciplinary, team-taught humanities program at Hudson High School, one of the top high schools in Ohio. Students examine four core social studies units, each combined with a corresponding literature unit.

Psychology, philosophy, anthropology, and sociology comprise the social studies units, while Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, William Golding’s Lord of the Flies and Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye provide the literary aspect to each unit. The students read Freud, then study Hamlet to explore its psychology.

Alongside the curriculum, students write a year-long research paper exploring two opposing sides of a topic of their choice. The year culminates with a class

Students from Hudson High School class trip to New York City

PHOTO COURTESY OF HUDSON HIGH SCHOOL

trip to New York City. The students in New Dimensions—who call it New D— become a tight unit as they explore such profound topics as the nature of man and the philosophy of religion.

“I never felt so accepted (as in New D),” said Noah Zappone, who is now a freshman at The Ohio State University. “It becomes a family.”

STARK COUNTY SCHOOLS GET CREATIVE

SmArts, a program supported by ArtsinStark (AIS) uses arts-focused residencies to increase academic achievement in Stark County Schools. In a typical SmArts residency, the classroom teacher identifies the content and the fine arts discipline they want students to explore. The teacher is then paired with a professional artist to design a SmArts residency that benefits students of varying learning styles.

The program works. A three-year study of SmArts found:

• SmArts students outperformed other students;

• The percentage of SmArts students who scored at the highest reading levels jumped from 25 percent to 48 percent; and

• SmArts students’ 4th grade writing scores rose 23 percent.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LIPPMAN SCHOOL

The Lippman School

FUN FACT: The Hudson High School teams are called the Explorers.

OPENDOORS

The University of Akron

PHOTO COURTESY

Aspire to Realize Your Potential.

Our colleges and uiversities, powered by research and student success, play a vital role in shaping lives and communities.

The University of Akron

The University of Akron (UA), established in 1870, offers indemand associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and law degree programs. UA provides 200 undergraduate degree programs, including top-ranked online programs for nontraditional students. UA is surrounded by thousands of businesses, including Fortune 500 companies, supporting student access to internships, co-ops and careers.

Ranked No. 1 in the world for polymer science and plastics engineering by global ranking site EduRank, UA is home to one of the largest and best-known research and academic programs dedicated to the study of polymers—long chains of molecules that make up mainly rubbers and plastics.

With championship-winning NCAA Division I sports teams, hundreds of student organizations and a nationally ranked Student Recreation and Wellness Center, UA provides its students with the full campus experience.

Bragging Rights

UA School of Law’s intellectual property, trial advocacy and part-time studies programs were ranked among the top 50 in the country by U.S. News & World Report in its 2023 rankings.

95% of spring 2021 undergraduate degree recipients were employed or sought additional education within six months of graduation.

95% of spring 2021 undergraduate degree recipients were employed or sought additional education within six months of graduation.

20,000+ employers nationwide recruit UA students for internships, co-ops and part- and full-time employment.

BRAIN FOOD

New Bachelor’s Degrees Offered at The University of Akron

The University of Akron is the first public university in Ohio to offer a Bachelor of Science in Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering. Now students at the undergraduate level who are interested in technical solutions to sustainability, processing, and biomaterials can earn a degree focused on polymers.

The new Bachelor of Science in Sport Analytics is designed for students with an interest in sports and business and who possess an analytical mindset. The curriculum was prepared in response to the industry’s need for business professionals and builds a specialized foundation in math, statistics and computer programming.

UA’s Bachelor of Science in Sport Business provides a strong foundation in the core areas of business, along with experience applying business concepts in sport-specific settings.

BRAIN FOOD

NEOMED’s Center for Global Health Innovation provides international experiences and clinical rotations for medical students with a variety of opportunities and exposure to different cultures, health systems, populations and medical practices. Students currently have the opportunity to travel to India and Nepal for seven-week immersive experiences. These international opportunities allow them to enhance their medical education by improving physical exam and diagnostic skills by working with veteran health professionals while gaining exposure to a wider variety of illnesses and health issues from around the globe.

Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED)

Founded in 1973, Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) harnesses diversity, innovation and collaboration to create transformative leaders and improve health through education, discovery and service. NEOMED’s mission is made possible through its network consisting of several nationally ranked health care systems. The University values leadership, excellence, advocacy, diversity, equity and respect. It has three Colleges—Medicine, Pharmacy and Graduate Studies—and offers Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degrees, as well as master’s and doctoral degrees and research opportunities in other medical and life science areas.

In addition to the basic sciences at its Colleges, NEOMED conducts research to advance innovation and discovery in health care through six research focus areas of excellence. NEOMED’s unique areas of service include Coordinating Centers of Excellence, which disseminate best practices for treating mental illness; online didactics and onsite training through

several programs; and patient services through its centers at NEOMED Health Care and its award-winning Student-run Free Clinic. Learn more at neomed.edu.

Bragging Rights

141 College of Medicine students matched with residencies throughout the U.S. for a 100% match rate of all students who completed the match and supplemental offer process. NEOMED announced it will be opening the Bitonte College of Dentistry with the help of a $10 million commitment from Drs. Gary and David Bitonte, directors of the Dr. Dominic A. and Helen M. Bitonte Family Foundation.

The Class of 2023 was the largest in the University’s history, graduating 275 new health professionals.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NEOMED

Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences is the only healthcare system-affiliated college in Northeast Ohio and has the longest running nursing education program in the region. The college is focused on preparing students to become successful practitioners and leaders in the healthcare field. Located near downtown Canton, the college shares a campus with Aultman Hospital, Stark County’s largest hospital and a Magnet-designated facility. As part of this renowned health system, Aultman College students receive unparalleled clinical and learning experiences.

Aultman College offers programs in nursing, radiography, social work, medical assisting, health sciences and phlebotomy, as well as College Credit Plus. Nearly 340 full- and part-time students are enrolled.

Bragging Rights

The college was ranked third in Ohio for its BSN Completion program.

Radiography and nursing graduates consistently exceed state and national averages on licensing exams.

SMART MOVE

J. CHERIE STRACHAN, PhD

The University of Akron, Director of the Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics & Professor of Political Science

Moved from Richmond, VA to Akron in July 2022.

Biggest Surprise: The music scene is so active. We’ve enjoyed everything from free summer concerts at Lock 3 to shows at small venues like Jilly’s Music Room in Akron, the Zephyr in Kent, and the Grog Shop in Cleveland. Day-off fun: We’ve had fun finding the best locally owned restaurants and grocery stores for everything from pierogi and Serbian fried chicken to momos and falafel.

On the business/political climate: As someone who studies politics for a living, I’ve noticed the level of civic and political engagement and how much people care about this city. I was impressed with how many qualified candidates stepped up to run for the open seat for mayor this past year.

Interesting local customs: I honestly didn’t realize how many times we would see the Goodyear Blimp on the horizon. We still point and exclaim, “Look, the blimp!” every time we see it. My new life-goal is to be invited for a ride in the blimp.

BRAIN FOOD

1,000 Fearless Collaborators and Counting

Kent State University’s Design Innovation (DI) welcomes its 1,000th collaborator, reaching the milestone in just under two years.

The owned-byall, shared-byall makerspace started as a mission to bring together students, faculty, community and leading experts from diverse disciplines for intersectional problem-solving and collaboration. Whether someone wants to dive into a technology they have never used before or has an idea they have been tinkering with, Design Innovation and its open-access spaces provide the tools and support to do so.

As DI expands to now welcome community members as collaborators, Executive Director J.R. Campbell looks forward to growing the network of passionate makers and problemsolvers.

“It’s amazing to see that we have crossed the 1,000th DI collaborator mark!” he said. “After having opened the DI Hub during the pandemic, it is super exciting to finally see the utilization of this great university resource starting to take off!”

For more information about Design Innovation at Kent State, visit kent.edu/designinnovation

Kent State University

Kent State University is the highest-ranked public university in northern Ohio on the Top Public Schools and Best National Universities lists by U.S. News & World Report 375 undergraduate programs of study and 220 master’s and doctoral programs of study. The Kent Campus is located on the banks of the Cuyahoga River and combines a friendly, small-town ambience with proximity to metropolitan centers.

With eight campuses spanning Northeast Ohio, a College of Podiatric Medicine, a Twinsburg Academic Center and academic sites in locations around the globe—such as New York City; Florence, Italy; and Curitiba, Brazil—Kent State is one of Ohio’s leading public universities and a major educational, economic and cultural resource far beyond the Northeast Ohio region it has served since 1910. Kent State is a national leader in award-winning student support services to graduate students. The student body comprises more than 33,000 students, including about 1,650 international students from nearly 100 countries. Kent State’s worldwide alumni family exceeds 270,000.

Kent State University at Stark is the University’s largest Regional Campus. Founded in 1946, Kent State Stark students receive an affordable university education on a beautiful 200-acre campus with a private college feel. Stark County’s only public university, Kent State Stark serves nearly 4,000 students year-round. In addition, 750 high school students from the Stark County area take advantage of the College Credit Plus program.

Bragging Rights

The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education awarded Kent State the esteemed R1 status for research, the highest recognition that doctoral universities can receive. This prestigious designation affirms Kent State’s place as a top-tier research institution and puts it in the company of universities such as Yale, Harvard and the University of CaliforniaBerkeley.

Kent State is the sole University in the U.S. to receive the prestigious 2022 Senator Paul Simon Award for Comprehensive Internationalization from NAFSA: Association of International Educators. The honor recognizes Kent State for overall excellence in integrating international education throughout all facets of the university and its campuses.

Kent State’s School of Fashion is consistently ranked in the top 25 internationally and in the top 10 in the United States.

For the 14th consecutive time, Kent State has earned the Military Friendly® School designation for its Kent Campus.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KENT STATE UNIVERSITY

SMART MOVE

STEPHEN WARD

Kent State University, Vice President, University Communications and Marketing

Moved from Honolulu to Akron in 2022. Biggest surprise: Just about everything. Sometimes people think we were crazy to have moved from Hawai‘i, but family considerations, combined with a great opportunity at Kent State, made for a great move.

Out-of-town visitor picks: I’m from Michigan, so landmarks reflecting this region’s industrial history, its time as the American northwestern frontier and the Great Lakes waterways history are fascinating.

On the education climate: This is a great region for higher education. Our work’s cut out for us, as we hope state lawmakers will see all of public education as a source of solutions, rather than political problems.

Most adventurous, new experience: I harvested, prepared, and ate a puffball mushroom bigger than a basketball that grew in our front yard. And we’ve begun devising our hunt for the first American pro-football championship trophy. It famously disappeared while in possession of one of our home’s early owners, who started what became the NFL as coach and owner of the first champions, the 1920 Akron Pros.

OPEN DOORS

Malone University

Celebrating more than 130 years of higher education, Malone University is a Christian university for the arts, sciences, and professions in the liberal arts tradition, affiliated with the Evangelical Friends Church. With more than 14,000 living alumni, Malone provides a transformative, faith-integrated environment that equips its graduates with the skills necessary to serve, engage, and transform the communities in which they live and work.

Malone University once again ranks among the Best Regional Universities in the Midwest in a recent survey by U.S. News & World Report, achieving #71 overall and #53 for Social Mobility in 2020. Malone is also identified by U.S. News as a Best Value School, ranking 33rd among colleges and universities in the Midwest. College Consensus recently selected Malone as one the Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Completion Programs for 2021, and Washington Monthly again included Malone on their “Best Bang for the Buck” list based on its performance with graduation rates and test scores as well as price of education and graduates’ salaries. In 2020, the first-time pass rate for bachelor of science in nursing graduates on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) was 90%; similarly, social work graduates passed the licensure exam at a rate of 100%, 32 percent higher than the national average. The University has had four faculty Fulbright Scholars in the last ten years, and 82% of the full-time faculty have earned the terminal degree in their discipline.

Bragging Rights

Unapologetically Christian, Malone’s faith-integrated curriculum helps students understand how their faith impacts all areas of life, including intellectual, spiritual, and community pursuits. Faculty and staff walk alongside students as they discover who God has called them to be.

Launched in 2020, the Pendle Hill Pledge is a campuswide commitment to support the vocational and personal growth of every Malone student through mentoring, experiential learning, and holistic career preparation across the curriculum.

The annual Research Symposium gives students the opportunity to work closely with faculty members to formally present their own research, showcasing the academic and creative work that prepares undergraduates for graduate-level education.

Significant Malonefunded financial aid ($16.7M in 2022) is one way that Malone University demonstrates a commitment to affordability for all students.

The University of Mount Union

The University of Mount Union, founded in 1846, is a comprehensive, private institution grounded in the liberal arts tradition. The University is located in Alliance, Ohio, less than an hour from Canton, Akron and Youngstown and is just an hour and a half from Cleveland and Pittsburgh. Mount Union offers an array of broad-based and career-specific undergraduate and graduate programs to its 2,100 students. Ensuring its education is accessible to students of all backgrounds, 98% of Mount Union students receive some form of financial aid. As a result, the University was named sixth in Ohio for Best Value by U.S. News and World Report for 2023. The University is committed to providing a studentcentered approach and an exceptional educational experience. For more information, visit mountunion.edu.

Bragging Rights

The University offers more than $34.4 million in grants and scholarships each year, aiding in a Mount Union education being 10% lower than the average cost of comparable private institutions in Ohio.

Offering thriving programs in growing industries, Mount Union’s academic catalog includes majors in mechanical engineering, nursing, and Japanese.

Mount Union has a network of more than 19,000 accomplished alumni across the world. Notable alumni include actress Carrie Coon; Dr. Shuvo Roy, coinventor of the world’s first implantable artificial kidney; and Philadelphia Eagles Head Coach Nick Sirianni.

SMART MOVE

MARC BASSON, MD, PHD, MBA

Northeast Ohio Medical University, Dean, College of Medicine

Moved from Grand Forks, ND to Bath in 2023.

Biggest surprise: The rich array of different restaurants and other resources in contrast to our previous hometown. Also, everyone is extraordinarily friendly. We’ve been really happy to start making new friends both at work and around our home. Out-of–town visitor picks: Hiking and exploring one of the many trails systems in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. On the healthcare climate: There are some outstanding hospitals and physicians who provide world-class care and world-class opportunities for NEOMED to train the next generation of physicians. I’m also excited about NEOMED’s strong research efforts in relevant areas such as diabetes, hearing disorders, neurodegenerative diseases and aging, cardiovascular disease, and health services.

Favorite thing about your new location: Trees! Everything in Bath is so green compared to where we’ve lived previously.

Day-off fun: We’re looking forward to walking in the many parks near Bath and exploring the theater scene throughout Northeast Ohio.

Ella George:

On her way to a PhD from a GED Detours, engine trouble and other assorted potholes, you might say, have been part of Ella George’s educational journey.

Armed with a GED, she found her first college semester a rude awakening after a homeschool education.

• She discovered she was operating with some learning disabilities.

• She had to juggle full-time work and her classes.

• Then that global pandemic came along. Still, she grabbed the wheel to chase down her goals and now is president of her college’s honor society, a member of its Honors Program, an All-Ohio scholar and determined to put the letters Ph and D after her name. Having financed her education by working while going to school, she maintains volunteer work and a 3.9 GPA as she moves toward her goal of a doctorate in ecology/evolutionary biology.

“I’m building a life I love,” Ella said, “with help from Stark State.”

Stark State College

Stark State College offers affordable, quality associate degrees and certificates that propel students of all ages to career success or launches them toward advanced degrees.

Stark State’s strong partnerships move Akron, Canton and surrounding communities forward through economic development initiatives such as Strengthening Stark and Elevate Greater Akron, community liaisons with entities such as Mercy Medical Center and Akron Children’s Hospital, employer partnerships that include the FirstEnergy Power Systems Institute and academic partnerships such as Direct Connect with The University of Akron.

The College meets the critical need for skilled employees with in-demand programs (nursing, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing and many more) and outstanding facilities, including the WR Timken Advanced Manufacturing Lab and a community dental clinic on the Stark County campus and, in Summit County, state-of-the-art medical labs and IT equipment, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) training site and a welding center.

Bragging Rights

Lowest tuition in the area

Small class sizes for one-on-one attention

Professors with real-world experience

PHOTOS

COURTESY OF STARK STATE COLLEGE

Walsh University

Walsh University is an independent, co-educational, Catholic, liberal arts and sciences institution that promotes academic excellence and diversity and provides close faculty-student interaction. It is dedicated to teaching its 2,450 students from 46 states and 35 countries to become leaders in service to others through a values-based education with an international perspective in the Judeo-Christian tradition. walsh.edu.

Bragging Rights

100% of Walsh students complete an internship before graduation.

4-Year Graduation Guarantee

Walsh students receive nearly $32 million in grants, scholarship and other institutional support each year.

Here, Everyone Rises Here, Everyone Rises

From world-class academics on our beautiful campus to real-world experiences in our vibrant city, The University of Akron has everything you need to reach your goals

• 200 programs in engineering, business, computer technology, health care, education, and the arts and sciences

• 340+ student organizations provide students w ith opportunities for experiential learning and c areer development.

• 20,000+ employers recruiting UA students and alumni for internships, co-ops and careers

Tyrone Computer engineering student

CARE

Good Health is the Good Life.

Our healthcare systems include nationally ranked providers, leading research companies, an innovative medical and pharmacy school, and imaginative educators.

Akron Children’s Hospital

Akron Children’s has been caring for children since 1890. Its pediatric specialties are ranked among the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report. With two hospital campuses, six regional health centers and more than 50 primary and specialty care locations throughout Ohio, Akron Children’s is making it easier for today’s busy families to find the high-quality pediatric care they need.

In 2022, Akron Children’s provided more than 1.3 million patient encounters. The system also operates neonatal and pediatric units in the hospitals of their regional health care partners. Every year, Akron Children’s home care nurses provide thousands of in-home visits, and school-based nurse practitioners manage clinic visits for children preschool through high school. With Quick Care Online virtual visits and Akron Children’s Anywhere app, care is available for families whenever and wherever needed. Learn more at akronchildrens.org.

Bragging Rights

From brightly-colored interiors to kid-created artwork and toddler-size chairs, everything at Akron Children’s is about the kids. Akron Children’s doctors, nurses and therapists are especially trained in child development so families will see them take extra time to ease fears and answer questions. Stickers are readily passed out at information desks, and child life specialists explain procedures so kids understand what’s happening. They may just get to pick the color of their cast or the scent of their anesthesia heading into surgery. No one looks forward to a hospitalization, but even that experience can be uplifted by the kindness of a volunteer offering to bake cookies bedside, deliver a craft kit or read a book aloud.

Since 1992, the Doggie Brigade,™ sponsored by Milk Bone, has brought joy, comfort and wagging tails to patients at Akron Children’s. These four-legged volunteers tour the hallways, visit patients in their rooms and stop in the activity rooms to see children who would like a visit. Patients often report that for the duration of their visit, they forget about their illness or pain and feel like a kid. And guess who’s an honorary member of the Doggie Brigade? Willie Nelson, a therapeutic miniature pony, gets cleaned up by his handlers at Victory Gallop and regularly visits patients room to room. When he exits the elevator and heads to a patient floor, you can always expect giggles and looks of surprise.

Since 1993, visitors to Akron Children’s have marveled at the sights and sounds of artist George Rhodes’ Incrediball Circus 2. The 20 x 9-foot art installation in the atrium lobby of the main hospital building is a fun “Rube Goldberg” contraption that sends balls on a never-ending roller coaster ride tucked inside a glass case. The colorful and whimsical art is just one of the pieces that declare this is a hospital for children and has become so synonymous with Akron Children’s that smaller versions of it greet visitors at all the hospital’s regional health centers. You may even spot one at the airport.

HEALTHY FOOD

The Food Farmacy: An “Rx” for Food

There’s a lot more to raising healthy children than annual wellchild visits and immunizations. Today, pediatricians ask parents about issues like safety in the home, mental health concerns, and food insecurity. For the latter, Akron Children’s has recently rolled out a pilot project so pediatricians can write parents in need an “Rx” for food.

Located on the hospital’s Akron campus, the Food Farmacy is stocked with fresh produce, frozen foods and shelf-stable items. The program is funded through an Ohio Department of Medicaid grant to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank and will be expanded and available to more and more patients over time.

Aultman Hospital

Aultman Hospital, Stark County’s first hospital, opened in 1892. The nonprofit hospital has more than 7,000 employees across the healthcare system and more than 1,000 active providers. Since 2006, Aultman Hospital has received Magnet recognition for nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, an achievement shared by only nine percent of hospitals in the nation.

With 300 locations serving seven counties across the region—spanning multiple hospitals, outpatient facilities, physician offices, therapy locations and hospice care— Aultman opened its first freestanding emergency department in Massillon in fall 2019, as well as the region’s first comprehensive cancer center with the Timken Family Cancer Center at its Canton campus in 2022.

Aultman Health Foundation provides comprehensive healthcare services including heart, cancer and emergency care, along with a broad spectrum of other specialties and services.

Aultman’s wide variety of unique, state-of-the-art services range from complex TAVR and Watchman heart procedures to comprehensive medical, surgical, interventional and radiation cancer care to roboticsassisted surgeries and more. It also participates in clinical research, pioneering future cardiac and cancer treatments. Aultman also serves as a teaching hospital, offering nine different residency and fellowship programs in interventional cardiology, cardiovascular disease, pharmacy, OB/GYN, radiology, orthopedics, emergency medicine, family medicine and internal medicine.

Bragging Rights

Offers more than 300 locations serving seven counties in the region.

Includes more than 7,000 employees and over 1,000 active providers.

Provides 1,032 private beds for the comfort of patients and their families.

Since 2006, Aultman Hospital received Magnet recognition for nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, an achievement shared by only nine percent of hospitals in the nation.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AULTMAN HOSPITAL

MEDICAL SPANISH BUILDS BRIDGES

As Parizad Dejbord-Sawan retired this summer as a professor of modern languages at The University of Akron, she considered a notable career accomplishment to be in an unexpected field: healthcare.

A decade ago, Dejbord-Sawan saw the growing population of Hispanics across the country and thought she could help serve a basic need. She created UA’s Certificate of Advanced Spanish for the Health Professions and First Responders, a unique program that provides health professions students with the language skills and experiential learning opportunities needed to communicate e ectively with Spanish-speaking patients.

She also began working with Akron Children’s Hospital to provide beginning medical Spanish for sta and interested members from other hospitals.

“We had everyone from doctors and nurses to receptionists and secretaries,” said Dejbord-Sawan, who was raised in Mallorca, Spain. “Most of those had never had Spanish, so we started at the beginning.”

Dejbord-Sawan had to start at the beginning too. She had to create the program from scratch, so she wrote a textbook and curriculum that are now in use at universities around the world. The two programs are well established in the healthcare communities of Greater Akron even though she’s now retired, said Dejbord-Sawan.

“The doctors, the nurses—everyone tells me they now feel comfortable interacting with Spanishspeaking patients,” she said. “And the patients are more comfortable from the moment they’re greeted in their own language.”

Parizad Dejbord-Sawan

HEALTHY FOOD

TeamBirth Aims to Improve Outcomes in Labor and Delivery

Cleveland Clinic Akron General has begun using a new model of care called TeamBirth to improve labor and delivery outcomes by focusing on communication and teamwork. In TeamBirth, all members of the care team have “huddles” with the pregnant person and their support person at regular intervals so that everyone understands the patient’s current condition and preferences. Planning boards on the wall list all caregivers who are on the team and outline care plans as well as document the progress for the patient and the baby. This helps everyone be on the same page and sets clear expectations.

Akron General is one of only four hospitals in the United States to pilot TeamBirth as part of the first wave of the March of Dimes and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Maternal HealthCARE initiative. This initiative works to improve maternal health outcomes and advance equity in labor and delivery, which is needed because minorities experience birth complications at much higher rates than their white counterparts.

Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Medina Hospital

Cleveland Clinic Akron General, a notfor-profit healthcare organization, was founded in 1914 as Peoples Hospital and affiliated with Cleveland Clinic in 2015. Akron General’s main campus in downtown Akron is anchored by a 532-registered-bed teaching and research medical center. Its state-ofthe-art Emergency Department was built in 2018 and is a designated Level I Trauma Center, the highest level available. Akron General also has Health & Wellness Centers in Bath, Green and Stow, offering a variety of integrated outpatient services, including 24-hour emergency departments, primary and specialty care practices, and medically supervised exercise programs. Akron General also operates a small hospital in Lodi, Ohio, that provides critical access for residents of that rural area. In 2022, when Cleveland Clinic was named the No. 4 hospital in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, Cleveland Clinic Akron General was named No. 7 in Ohio and the No. 1 hospital in the Akron metropolitan area.

Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital, originally the four-bedroom home of the Theodore Weidner family, opened in 1944. Today, the hospital is a modern 148-bed hospital located on Route 18 near I-71 as you enter the Medina community from the East. Part of the Cleveland Clinic since 2009, the hospital features the latest technology and procedures with more than 600 physicians on the medical staff covering more than 30 areas of specialization, including general surgery, orthopedic and emergency medicine. The hospital’s Logsdon Center for Integrative and Lifestyle Medicine offers patients alternative treatments that complement their medical care. The hospital has also recently upgraded its chapel to be more welcoming and more inclusive of all faiths. The Medina Hospital Foundation, along with the current medical staff, supports local high school graduates who plan to pursue a course of study in the medical field each year. They have awarded more than $750,000 over the hospital’s history.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CLEVELAND CLINIC

Bragging Rights

Cleveland Clinic Akron General:

Is proud to serve its community, with more than 25,000 admissions and more than 936,000 outpatient visits in 2022.

Is committed to training the next generation of healthcare leaders, offering highly regarded training programs in internal medicine, family medicine, OB/GYN, emergency medicine, general surgery, orthopedic surgery, psychology, urology, breast surgery oncology, pharmacy and vitreo-retinal and ocular trauma.

Has a team that works with patients addicted to opioids to create a treatment plan just for them. From immediate treatment, education and support, to assisting with the transition of care,

support from Recovery’s in Reach is available 24/7 at the Akron General Emergency Department in downtown Akron and the Emergency Departments in Bath, Green and Stow.

Has opened a food pantry that provides needed grocery staples to patients in our Center for Family Medicine who share with their provider that they may not have enough food at home.

Has a walk-in clinic where patients can get quick treatment for minor muscle, bone or joint injuries without an appointment. The Ortho Express Care at the Stow Health & Wellness Center offers treatment for patients age 7 and up.

SMART MOVE

GREGORY HAWRYLUK, MD, PhD, FRCSC

Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Neurosurgeon and Medical Director of the Brain Trauma Foundation Moved from Winnipeg, Canada to Hudson in 2022.

Biggest surprise: I thought I’d be moving to the “suburbs,” but everything my family and I need is right in the Hudson area—even a great airport.

Out-of-town visitor picks: The Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame & Museum have both been a hit with our guests. On the business climate: The economy seems to be strong. People take pride in their work here.

Tips for newcomers: Keep an eye out for the Goodyear Blimp!

Interesting local traditions: I did not expect to see Krampus at the Christmas market in Hudson! My kids eventually recovered.

Most adventurous, new experience: Parking at a Cavaliers game!

Favorite thing about your new location: Great schools, great people and easy living.

Cleveland Clinic Mercy Medical Center

Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital became a full member of the Cleveland Clinic health system in 2021 and is sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine. Founded in 1908, the Catholic faith-based medical center operates a 476-bed hospital in Canton and outpatient locations in Alliance, Carroll County, Jackson Township, Lake Township, Louisville, Massillon, North Canton, Plain Township and Tuscarawas County.

It had 14,605 hospital admissions and 581,137 outpatient visits in 2022.

Bragging Rights

Comprehensive cardiac care including diagnostic services and cardiac rehab program

Nation’s first accredited Chest Pain Center and Cardiac Catheterization Lab within an emergency department

Comprehensive cancer care accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC)

Level II Trauma Center, verified by the American College of Surgeons

Primary Stroke Center certified by The Joint Commission

Offers general surgery in addition to surgical specialties, including cancer, colorectal, gynecological, orthopedics, cardiac and vascular. Specializes in minimally invasive and robotic surgical procedures.

HEALTHY FOOD

Summa Health Comprehensive Stroke Center

In 2022, Summa Health System— Akron Campus was awarded the Comprehensive Stroke Center certification, the highest level of certification that can be obtained. Summa Health can treat the most complex stroke cases effectively and efficiently. As the first health system between Columbus and Cleveland to have this certification, Summa Health is proud to provide the highest quality stroke care close to home.

Healthgrades also recognized Summa Health as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Stroke Care for the fourth year in a row a fivestar recipient for the treatment of stroke for the sixth year in a row, and ranked second in Ohio for stroke care. Additionally, the Summa Health Neurosurgery team was ranked number one in Ohio for Cranial Neurosurgical care.

Strokes are very common, with one occurring every 40 seconds United States. A stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. The longer symptoms are left untreated, the more damage a stroke can cause. Since fast care is necessary, knowing the signs and symptoms is essential so you can help someone get the care they need right away.

Again, time is critical when treating a person suffering from a stroke. The sooner a person arrives at the emergency department (ED), the sooner treatment can begin to better their chances for recovery. When a patient arrives, the care team must act quickly. Using innovative technology, the patient receives advanced CT stroke imaging and other tests to locate any medical issues found in the brain, blood vessels and blood flow. To learn more about Summa Health’s award-winning stroke care, visit summahealth.org/brain or call 330.375.7055.

Summa Health

Summa Health, headquartered in Akron, is one of the largest integrated healthcare delivery systems in Ohio. Formed in 1989 with the merger of Akron City and St. Thomas Hospitals, this nonprofit system now encompasses a network of:

• Hospitals

• Community-based health centers

• SummaCare Insurance

• A multi-specialty group practice

• Research and medical education

• The Summa Foundation

Summa Health offers exceptional approaches to healthcare delivery through multiple operating entities and has served millions of patients in comprehensive acute, critical, emergency, outpatient and long-term/home-care settings. In addition, Summa represents more than 1,000 licensed inpatient beds in the following clinical settings:

• Summa Health System—Akron Campus

• Summa Health System—Barberton Campus

• Summa Rehab Hospital

Outpatient care is extended throughout Summit, Medina, Portage, Stark and Wayne counties in multiple community health centers. Providing superior, multi-specialty patient care, medical research and continuing medical education, Summa is consistently ranked one of the best healthcare providers in the country.

Bragging Rights

Serves patients throughout its five-county region each year in comprehensive emergency, acute, critical, outpatient and longterm/home care settings

Is one of the largest employers in Summit County with more than 8,000 employees

In 2023, Summa Health opened the Juve Family Behavioral Health Pavilion, a 60-bed, seven-story inpatient and outpatient facility for mental health and addiction treatment.

Its Accountable Care Organization, NewHealth Collaborative, is regularly recognized for achieving outstanding quality and financial outcomes

Summa Health System—Akron Campus is the first hospital in the greater Akron region to be awarded the Comprehensive Stroke Center certification from the Joint Commission, in collaboration with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.

Its Akron and Barberton Campuses are recipients of the Healthgrades 2023 America’s 100 Best Hospitals Award™. Recently opened a 9,277 square-foot Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine Center.

SMART MOVE

EVA SZIGETHY

Akron Children’s Hospital, MD, PhD, Lois C. Orr Endowed Chair in Pediatric Psychiatry

Moved from Pittsburgh to Portage Lakes in January, 2023.

Biggest surprise: The lakes and parks, the restaurants, and the friendly people. I love the sense of community and how it considers Akron Children’s one of their precious gems. What’s also surprising is Akron’s rich history—an important hub for abolitionists, the birth of Alcoholic Anonymous, the rubber and tire industry through Goodyear, the birth of the K-12 education system and the beautiful Stan Hywet Manor.

Day-off fun: I get to row in eights at the Portage Lake Rowing Club. I also have my own single scull, which is a wonderful Zen way to meet the sunrise each morning.

Most adventurous, new experience: Working with an amazing clinical and administrative team to transform mental health care delivery for children and adolescents in one of the premier independent children’s hospitals in the country.

BIZ BEAT

MAGNET Helps E thQuak Crank It Up.

Someof the best bands – and ideas – are born in basements. But they don’t stay there long. Check out EarthQuaker Devices, a funky guitar pedal company that began with some off-tour tinkering by founder Jamie Stillman. Today the Akron company powers white-hot riffs around the globe and garners praise from shredders everywhere.

When Darlyn McDermott meets with manufacturers she’s in charge of helping, she begins with a simple question: “What’s keeping you up at night?”

“It always starts with a conversation,” said McDermott, client engagement director with MAGNET, the Manufacturing Advocacy and Growth Network, which has offices across Northeast Ohio.

Half of all jobs in Northeast Ohio depend on manufacturing, and Ohio is third in manufacturing employment after California and Texas. MAGNET rolls up its sleeves and works closely with employers to create results they can measure. They can assess a business—from billing to machining—to find solutions to problem areas.

Julie Robbins, chief executive officer of EarthQuaker Devices, a guitar pedal manufacturer in Akron, has worked closely with MAGNET to increase her company’s productivity.

EarthQuaker began in 2004 in the basement of Jamie Stillman, a musician and one-time tour manager for The Black Keys. He began tinkering, and in 2007 made his first full-production pedal known as the Hoof Fuzz. Today, the company has more than 50 employees in a 15,000

square foot building downtown. In 2019, the company won the U.S. Small Business Association’s Exporter of the Year Award. Rapid growth is welcome, of course, but it has its challenges. As sales surged during the pandemic, MAGNET helped EarthQuaker weather the problems posed by fluctuating supply chains.

“There are a lot of resources in Northeast Ohio to help. It’s one of the great benefits of being here,” said Robbins. Others are the low cost of real estate, a manufacturing workforce and amenities for family life.

“It’s important,” said Robbins, “to get connected to the community.”

Darlyn McDermott, MAGNET’s engagement director, always asks manufacturers, “What’s keeping you up at night?”

F e ack s

Entrepreneurial talent lights up Akron-Canton

Nardos Street, Founder, Bereka Coffee Fueling Community Through Coffee

Coffee has always meant joy and community to Nardos Street, founder of Akron’s Bereka Coffee. Now it means business too. A native of Ethiopia, Street said coffee is central to her homeland’s culture.

“Ever since I was a little girl, I roasted coffee and performed coffee ceremonies, so it’s what I knew,” she said. “It’s energizing to share my culture with others.”

For the first three years, growth was difficult and inconsistent, with business slowly picking up by word of mouth. A social worker at The Blick Center during the day, Street performed coffee ceremonies and catered events in the evening and on weekends.

Leadership at the Bounce Innovation Hub first became familiar with Street and Bereka Coffee through her participation in Food Truck Wednesdays and events she catered at Bounce. They told Street about the MORTAR at Bounce program, a 15-week accelerator for minority- and woman-owned businesses. She’s now a graduate.

“I met an amazing group of people through MORTAR and loved every minute of it,” she said. “I feel very blessed that Bounce reached out to me.”

While she also sells authentic Ethiopian food and tea, it’s the coffee and the important role it plays in bringing people together that was the catalyst for starting her business.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, and events were suddenly cancelled, Street had a plan.

“We pivoted to e-commerce to sell our coffee and teas, and started doing online demos,” she said.

In the past year as in-person events resumed, Street participated in pop-ups at the NoHi commercial kitchen incubator located in the North Hill neighborhood of Akron, which is helping the business grow.

Being part of the community at Bounce has enabled Street to connect with influencers, share resources and support other business owners.

As Street looks ahead to the future of Bereka Coffee, she is currently exploring the Akron area for a brick and mortar café, where she would serve coffee, tea and authentic Ethiopian food.

“It has been an amazing experience to feel love from the community; it’s the fuel to keep moving, “ she said. “This is more than a business. It is a calling to celebrate the beauty of cultural diversity.”

Nardos Street

Evan Haug

PHOTO BY RED ARROW PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOUNCE

Evan Haug, Chief Executive

Officer, LEAF

Evan Haug of Stow was an intern at an electrical company specializing in solar power when the lightbulb went off.

His job there was to design the order—or string —of a solar power array before installation, and he found the engineering process tedious. If he could find a way to automate the manual processes of the design, he’d save engineers time, trouble and money.

So Haug went to work developing an AI-powered AutoCAD plug-in and began to form a company. Logically Engineering Automation Features Ltd., LEAF for short, eventually caught the attention of Bounce Innovation Hub in Akron where it received support needed to evolve into a full-fledged business.

Bounce connected LEAF with several Northeast Ohio resources. For instance, Thompson Hine LLP handled the company’s legal filings, and HJK Digital built its website and other marketing tools. Marcum LLP advised LEAF on accounting.

“All these great resources and people around us pushed us to move forward as quickly as possible, and that’s been valuable to have a little push behind us,” said Haug.

The plug-in works like this: When solar panels are put on a roof, they are strung together. Only a certain number of panels can go together in a certain order to make it an electrically safe project. It’s an engineer’s task to have the whole project designed with each panel wired sequentially. Typically, too much time is spent drawing lines in AutoCAD manually, Haug said.

“Basically, our platform allows engineers to bring their expertise and calculations to the app,” said Haug. “The app will take this information and create the stringing design for the solar panel layout. If changes occur throughout the project, engineers can make adjustments.”

LEAF was one of 10 companies chosen as finalists in the American-Made Solar Prize awarded by the U.S. Department of Energy. Each finalist was awarded $100,000 in cash and $75,000 in technical support vouchers.

LEAF said his mentors at Bounce and elsewhere pushed him along, but he advised entrepreneurs they should realize some steps take time.

“We’ve made some thorough decisions and talked things over with advisers,” said Haug, who now devotes all his time to LEAF. “That has set us on the right path to move forward more quickly in the future.”

Give Me Five

Launching a business can be daunting, but people in AkronCanton are ready to help.

Dr. Leia’ Love, has owned her eponymous salon in Fairlawn for more than a decade. She serves on the board of the Greater Akron Chamber and the Women’s Network Leadership Institute.

Here are five tips that helped her along the way.

1 Fail fast. Most people are scared to fail, but the quicker you fail and learn, the faster you will succeed.

2 Thoroughly understand your clients’ pain points. These pain points are crucial to use in your marketing materials.

3 Learn your team’s personalities, and place them in positions to highlight their skill sets. The more successful they are, the more successful your business will be.

4 Be clear about what your business needs, and make the ask! Take the shot!

5 Two books I recommend reading are The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin and Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone To Take Action by Simon Sinek.

leialove.com

Dr. Leia’ Love, CEO, Leia’ Love Hair & Nail Salon

MORE LOVE

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We’re a gateway to everywhere. Greater AkronCanton is within 500 miles of 42 major cities. That means manageable weekend getaways. Our central location allows businesses to move their products with speed and ease.

B nce Inn ati Hub

At the heart of area entrepreneurship

Bounce is Akron’s entrepreneurial hive mind, the home of a collective intelligence that grows businesses and nurtures dreams.

Whether it’s the co-working space, the makerspace, the workshops, the mentoring or just the coffee at the Stray Dog Café, the Bounce Innovation Hub in downtown Akron draws hundreds to its busy life each year.

Bounce is a nonprofit that houses, trains and supports entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses through education, collaboration and investment. It provides myriad services to help founders develop ideas, refine strategies and navigate the challenges of their startup journeys.

Their technology incubator and accelerator programs are cornerstones of Bounce, providing early-stage tech startups with the resources and guidance they need to start and scale. And its newer GROW (General Real Opportunity and Wealth) programs continue to flourish, supporting women and minority-led startups and small businesses and recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusivity in entrepreneurship.

Its revamped Next Level Business Incubator, part of GROW, is for established, Blackowned, small businesses that are ready for growth. Bounce added several EntrepreneursIn-Residence

—established business owners—who work directly with clients to help navigate the journey of growing a company.

Bounce also focuses on building a vibrant community by hosting networking events, workshops and pitch competitions. These bring together entrepreneurs, startups,

investors and industry experts to share knowledge and ideas.

In 2022, Bounce received a $2 million grant from the federal government and the City of Akron for the secondfloor renovation of the old B.F. Goodrich Co. factory it calls home. The Generator expansion project will include the addition of more private offices, conference rooms, classrooms, and additional open- and reserveddesk coworking space. Room for additional makerspace equipment will be included. The project includes finishing touches on Carbon Black, a community space operated by Crafty Mart, which supports Akron area artists and makers.

The expansion is expected to be complete in 2024.

SMART MOVE

DA’SHIKA & ANDRE STREET

Street Craftery, Owner Operators

Moved to Hanau, Germany from Akron in 1995, then returned to Akron in 1999. Off to Long Island in 2002 and back to Akron in 2002.

Out-of-town visitor picks: At Street Craftery, we’d create a custom candle or offer splatter painting to de-stress from travel. Then we’d grab a quick bite at Swensons and catch a show at BLU Jazz+ or the Knight Stage. We’d recommend the BLU-Tique Hotel, and an afternoon tea with The Tea Lady.

Day-off fun: We’re foodies. We love Wise Guys Lounge & Grill for Italian, Marques for home-style soul food, and Alexander Pierce for special occasions.

On the business climate: Akron’s rich with enterprising entrepreneurs who add culture and vibrancy to our city.

Interesting local tradition: The Downtown Akron Sakura (Cherry Blossom) festival. We loved experiencing all the vendors and allage-friendly activities.

Most adventurous, new experience: Opening our Downtown Akron storefront on Main Street is a vulnerable time of managing overhead while trying to nail down a process. But we have been met with amazing customers and a supportive community.

Bounce is a nonprofit that houses, trains and supports entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses through education, collaboration and investment.

PHOTO BY SABERTOOTH PUBLIC ART’S NEW MURAL AT BOUNCE

The P of Two Q&

A with Ebony Porter, vice president of opportunity and inclusion, Greater Akron Chamber and Tammy Tucker, director of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), City of Akron

Uniting to advance opportunity in the region

Q: What do you each do?

A: Porter: I lead DEI efforts within the business community, serve as a thought leader on racial equity, and bring leaders and businesses together to drive inclusive economic growth in Greater Akron. Through a DEI lens, I work to support minority, women, veteran, LGBTQIA+ businesses and entrepreneurs to help them thrive. Examples include guiding companies through creating ERGs (employee resource groups), connecting them to outlets to identify diverse talent, or referring diverse vendors that can help.

A: Tucker: I focus on racial equity issues—the inequities in communications, housing, workforce development, health, education and criminal justice. I actively listen to peoples’ ideas, frustrations and hopes, seeking equitable policies and procedures that model humanity as our best practice so we can prevent future inequity.

Q: How do you two work together?

A: Porter: GAC’s Diversity Professional Council (DPC) brings members together to discuss a variety of diversity topics. As the current chair, Tammy works with me to connect more than 45 DEI/HR leaders monthly to discuss and address regional issues

Also, the City of Akron, GAC and other partners collectively address regional supplier diversity. GAC created a Procurement Council to see increased

diversity spending in our region that will provide more opportunities.

A: Tucker: We partner to close the generational wealth gap for Akron’s small and Black-owned businesses. The City is reviewing its procurement policy to promote supplier diversity and support local entrepreneurs. Working with Ebony, we elevate Akron and its businesses. By diversifying our workforce to match our demographics, we appeal to millennials and Gen Z, fostering growth.

Q: How do your positions overlap?

A: Porter: At their core, both of our positions exist to ensure that Akron prospers. We both advocate for the needs of people and especially those in vulnerable populations. We work to ensure that people are heard and that needs are met.

A: Tucker: Our positions overlap in the major area of thinking well of the City of Akron and its residents. It permeates everything we do.

Q: What are some important initiatives?

A: Porter: 2023 Economic and Inclusion Committee goals:

• Increase visibility and access to work experience, internship and employment for Black talent.

• Provide tools, resources and customized support for the internal work GAC members are doing on individual policies, procedures and practices to increase inclusivity.

• Increase commitment to support and purchase from Black- and woman-owned businesses—both B2B procurement and promotion of consumer opportunities to our employees.

A: Tucker:

• The Racial Equity and Social Justice Taskforce that recommended my position.

• Partnering with human resources to train supervisors and managers on diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

• Celebrating heritage months. It’s a pinhole in a cultural balloon that has dominated the workspace and city government. It’s the crack in the wall allowing change to flow.

DEI SUPPORT FOR GREATER AKRON BUSINESS

The Greater Akron Chamber: drives economic growth and prosperity for Greater Akron by supporting business community success and acting as a convener of stakeholders on key issues facing the region greaterakronchamber.org/ membership

The Greater Akron Business Navigator: resources that support businesses, ranging from start-ups to middle-market companies looking to scale. greaterakronbusinessnavigator. org/

The Akron Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC): identifies small, disadvantaged, minority-owned and women-owned businesses in Ohio to cultivate their growth and sustainability. akronurbanleague.org/ what-we-do/entrepreneurship/mbacprogram/

The Minority Contractor Capital Access Program (MCCAP): a collaboration between the Western Reserve Community Fund and the Akron Urban League that provides financial and technical assistance to Akron and Summit Countybased minority, women, LGBTQ+, veteran and disabled-owned businesses in the construction trades. akronurbanleague.org/what-we-do/ entrepreneurship/mccap-program

Women’s Network Leadership Institute: connects, empowers and inspires through professional development, leadership training, continuous research and thought leadership. In fall 2019, Women’s Network Leadership Institute and GAC memorialized a formal Affiliation Agreement. greaterakronchamber. org/wnli

From the office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the Racial Equity Social Justice Taskforce recommendations: https:// www.akronohio.gov/cms/ site/0e32265c61627adc/index.html

The City Charter: akron-oh.elaws.us/ code/coor_chakoh

Department of Human Resources for the City: vacancies: akronohio.gov/ cms/personnel/main/index.html

SMART MOVES

EBONY L. PORTER

Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce (GAC), Vice President of Opportunity and Inclusion

Moved from Philadelphia, PA to Akron in 2022.

Biggest surprise: I was surprised to learn The Nightlight, a nonprofit movie theater, exists and offers a shared meeting space when a movie isn’t showing. I grabbed coffee at Akron Coffee Roasters, and we met in The Nightlight Lobby.

Out-of-town visitor picks: Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, John Brown House, and dinner at Perfect Pour. I love these Akron treasures and supporting a minority/veteran owned business.

Day-off fun: Exploring Sand Run Metro Park, The Towpath Trail, catching a $5 movie at the iconic Highland Square Theater, and spending time with family. With my first summer in Akron approaching, I look forward to new activities, and checking out events on the Downtown Akron Partnership website.

On the business climate: At the Greater Akron Chamber, we work to expand economic opportunities for the business community and residents. For example, we work together with the Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) team that supports new businesses in the region and current businesses with growth and various entrepreneurial needs.

Most adventurous, new experience: Attending a staff retreat at Street Craftery experimenting with new art forms and going to a “Goat Derby” in Richfield, a twist on the Kentucky Derby.

TAMMY TUCKER

City of Akron, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Moved from Columbus, OH to Akron in 2022.

Biggest surprise: The cleanliness of the City and how it has a Cleveland Heights-Columbus-Athens mix of neighborhoods, markets, and small community where-everyone-knowsyour-name feel.

Out-of-town visitor picks: The Akron Zoo and the Akron Civic Theatre.

Day-off fun: Playing tennis, walking, or reading a book at Hardesty Park.

On the nonprofit/arts climate: Everything is artsy! Nonprofits are very passionate about their impacts. Tips for newcomers: Plan at least six months out for housing!

Interesting local tradition: I had not heard of Mitzvah Day before. I love the opportunity to serve others. Most adventurous, new experience: Moving to this location.

Favorite thing about your new location: My Church of our Savior, Episcopal

Art Bomb Brigade’s Dawn Revisited Mural on the Freedom Trail, Team Leader Mac Love

ALL FORONE

All F One

Community

means everything. Take a good look at us and you’ll see we’re dedicated to the common good with advocates in every corner. Whether you need support or can offer it to someone else, we welcome you. No matter your background or abilities, there’s a place for you in Akron-Canton. Right here. Right now With us.

Akron Rotary Camp for Children with Special Needs

Since 1924, Rotary Camp has been a cherished and trusted viable resource in providing campers with special needs opportunities to experience traditional camping activities, develop friendships, learn life skills and create memories that will last a lifetime. Annually, Rotary Camp serve children and adults with a wide range of developmental disabilities, physical disabilities and mental health disorders in summer day, summer overnight and school year respite camping programs. Camp is offered at the main campus at Rex Lake in Akron and the Happy Day School in Ravenna, Ohio. Rotary Camp is operated by the Akron Area YMCA.

Akron Community Foundation

The motto tells it all: “By the people, for the people.” For 68 years, Akron Community Foundation has been a trusted way to give to a favorite cause through a variety of charitable funds. For instance, the donoradvised fund is an alternative to establishing a private foundation. Choose your favorite nonprofit, and the community foundation will make sure your gifts reach their targets. The Foundation manages $260 million in charitable assets in more than 820 charitable funds and has given nearly $225 million in grants for the greater good of the Akron community.

Stark Community Foundation

Since 1963 when the Stark Community Foundation was formed, tens of thousands of lives have been enriched through grants and scholarships. It’s the community’s

trusted partner in effective philanthropy. Today, the foundation stewards more than 850 charitable funds totaling nearly $400 million in assets and has granted over $215 million to nonprofits in our community and beyond.

Leadership Akron and Torchbearers

Leadership Akron, currently celebrating their 40th anniversary, unlocks the potential of leaders and inspires them to create a stronger Greater Akron. Torchbearers and Leadership Akron have a partnership to enrich Greater Akron by supporting community leaders from high school through retirement. Diversity on Board, created with the United Way of Summit & Medina, offers leadership development, education, and board matching services to advance minority representation on public and nonprofit boards.

CANAPI

Community AIDS Network/Akron Pride Initiative (CANAPI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to HIV support services and LGBTQ advocacy in Summit and Portage counties. CANAPI promotes the well-being of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) community and persons at risk or affected by HIV through education, support services, housing and advocacy.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AKRON ROTARY CAMP

COURTESY OF CANAPI

CANAPI drag show.

Akron Pride Festival

ALL FOR ONE

United Way of Summit & Medina

United Way takes on issues that matter most to children and families by focusing on four Bold Goals for the community by 2028.

Ready for Success: Raising third grade reading scores for 65% of Akron Public School (APS) students

Youth Success: Raising four-year graduation rates among APS high schoolers to 90% and increasing college and career readiness among graduates

Financial Empowerment: Financially empowering 11,000 people in Summit County and 2,500 people in Medina County

Health Equity: Reducing the Black infant mortality rate in Summit County to 6 per 1,000 live births

With more than a century of experience in Greater Akron, United Way brings together partners from the public, private and nonprofit sectors and thousands of volunteers.

United Way of Greater Stark County

United Way of Greater Stark County fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in Stark and Carroll counties. United Way of Greater Stark County has identified four areas for investment: childhood success, youth success, access to health and economic mobility. By addressing these priorities, the United Way builds a foundation for stable households and helps to break the cycle of poverty.

Stewart’s Caring Place

Stewart’s Caring Place provides

non-medical supportive services and programs at no cost in a relaxed and caring environment to individuals and families touched by cancer. The 150 services and programs offered throughout the year focus on the mental and emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis, including support groups, a food pantry, holistic programs, wigs, fitness classes and more. With many programs and services remaining hybrid, those needing services can attend virtually or by visiting the location in Fairlawn. In 2022, Stewart’s Caring Place supported 2,600 individuals and families in 36 counties.

Habitat for Humanity of Summit County

Habitat for Humanity of Summit County is a nonprofit, ecumenical organization that builds and repairs homes in partnership with qualified families. It is dedicated to making simple, decent and affordable

Stewart’s Caring Place wig room

Summit County’s Habitat for Humanity

PHOTOS COURTESY OF STEWART’S CARING PLACE

housing available in our community for low-income families in need. In Summit County, Habitat has already built more than 225 homes and housed more than 375 adults and nearly 600 children in just over 35 years.

International Institute of Akron

The International Institute creates and implements programs that assist the foreign-born in integrating into the Greater Akron community. It also promotes the value of diversity and international communication. Programs include ESL and citizen classes, translation and placement of new refugees.

Asian Services in Action (ASIA)

Asian Services in Action (ASIA) strives to serve, support, and advocate for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

(AAPIs), and immigrants and refugees, so they prosper and flourish. They provide wraparound health and social services in Northeast Ohio in multiple languages, including after-school programs, financial education, primary healthcare, and more.

OPEN M

OPEN M is a Christian nonprofit organization that serves more than 50,000 individuals annually with food, health and employment services—all intended to create pathways out of poverty. Located in the Summit Lake neighborhood of Akron, OPEN M leverages a community alliance of churches, businesses and more than 2,000 volunteers to o er programs to those in need residing in the Greater Akron Area and Summit County.

SMART MOVE MARCUS BISWA

Asian Services in Action, (ASIA), Bilingual Community Mental Health Worker/Broker/Navigator

Moved from Concord, NH to Erie, PA in 2012, then to Akron in 2021. Biggest surprise: Akron is a secure home for immigrants and refugees to live peacefully, without fear of being cheated as newcomers. ASIA serves all new immigrants and refugees, including Asians, refugees from Africa, and Ukranians. BCAA (Bhutanese Community Association of Akron) also helps Bhutanese people who need help in all aspects of their new lives in the US. HALCA (Himalaya Art Language & Cultural Academy) serves the Nepali community, providing support to preserve Nepali culture and language.

On the business climate: Business is increasing because of the diverse population. There are many business owners from the Bhutanese community in the much-needed home health care area, including Paradise Home Health Care and Ivory Home Health Care. And there are multiple Nepali groceries in various locations where our community can get food within walking distance.

Interesting local customs: Yes, the Bhutanese, Nepali and Karen cultures seem to be new here in Akron.

Asian Services in Action (ASIA)

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASIAN SERVICES IN AKRON

PHOTO COURTESY OF HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF SUMMIT COUNTY

Jewish Family Services of Akron

JFS of Akron enhances the mental, emotional and social well-being of individuals ages 45 and older and their families through counseling, care management and education consistent with Jewish values; however, JFS serves both the Jewish and non-Jewish community. No one is denied services based on their inability to pay.

Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank

The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank is the source of emergency food for 600 food pantries, hot meal sites, shelters and other hunger-relief programs that directly serve people facing hunger. In 2022, the Foodbank and its network of partners helped provide access to 23.3 million meals for families in Carroll, Holmes, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas and Wayne counties.

County DD Boards

The four developmental disability boards of Summit, Portage, Medina and Stark counties provide services to thousands of people with disabilities and their families. Although services vary with each board, all four provide lifespan support to help people with disabilities work, live and learn as equal citizens. From early interventions with young children to daycare for older adults, the boards oversee coordinated, reliable care. For families, the boards provide guidance. For employers, they offer solutions to staffing issues. For the entire community, they offer a way to live a richer, more inclusive life.

United Disability Services (UDS)

For more than 70 years, UDS has been serving individuals with all types of disabilities—from mild to severe. Its sports program (sanctioned by the Special Olympics) is competitive and

Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank distribution workers

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AKRON-CANTON FOODBANK

integrated. It loans developmental toys and offers resource material. The Taste Buds division is a catering service that offers boxed lunches while providing employment for the disabled. UDS offers local employers ways to reach their production goals.

Hattie Larlham

Since 1961, Hattie Larlham, an independent nonprofit, has been offering medical, residential, recreational and work training services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It provides 24/7 services to children and

young adults at its center in Portage County and to adults in communitybased homes throughout Ohio.

Pegasus Farm

This farm in Hartville is dedicated to the idea that equine-assisted activities provide exceptional physical and psychological benefits. Each year, it serves more than 500 people from eight counties—primarily children— who face emotional, behavioral, cognitive, developmental or physical challenges or a combination. It is certified as a Premier Center by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship.

Gigi’s Playhouse

Gigi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome

Achievement Center in Canton is one of 46 locations of a Chicago-based nonprofit designed to increase positive awareness of Down’s. It provides a place for parents and caregivers to network and share ideas.

Making Meaningful Connections

In Our Community

Summit DD believes that the strongest communities are built by the abilities of all people. We connect people with developmental disabilities to the supports that fit their needs, helping people reach their full potential... one person at a time.

MORE LOVE

2355 2nd St, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 SummitDD.org

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In AkronCanton, we take care of each other. Twothirds of the area’s young professionals surveyed by the Ohio Policy Center felt like “they could make a difference” here.

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“Akron’s ability to convene community leaders from across sectors is partly a function of its small size and the sense of accountability this engenders. The region also has been blessed with leaders who’ve worked to unite people.”

—The Commonwealth Fund

HELP US MAKE OUR COMMUNITY WELCOMING FOR PEOPLE OF EVERY ABILITY. Visit SummitDD.org for tips to:

· Hire people with disabilities: We can help connect and support your business.

· Get involved or volunteer: Check out opportunities with some of our partners.

· Make your organization more inclusive: Contact us to set up a free training.

Summit DD

PHOTO COURTESY SUMMIT DD

YPCONNECT

PHOTO COURTESY OF AKRON URBAN LEAGUE

Torchbearers Akron

Find Pe le Who Get Y

Young professionals in Akron-Canton can join any number of groups for mixing, mingling and motivation

Greater Akron Chamber’s Young Professional Network

YPN provides its members with opportunities to build relationships with local community, business and government leaders and gives a voice to Akron-area young professionals, 20-40 years old, from all professions. For more information, email ypn@greater akronchamber.org, @grtakronchamber

30 for the Future Awards

Since 2016, this program has recognized stellar individuals from ages 25-39 for their professional accomplishments and community contributions. They are honored an annual event in the fall. greaterakronchamber.org, @grtakronchamber.org

Young Professionals of Akron

This group is open to anyone “young” and growing in their career. YPA members expand their professional and personal networks through social and community events; invest in the community through volunteerism and support of local business; and find new opportunities through the introduction to resources YPA is focused on connecting professionals to each other and the city through community and social events. Visit ypakron.org, @ypakron

Torchbearers Akron

The goal of Torchbearers is to ignite young change-makers to shape Akron and strengthen their connection to local nonprofit community organizations. Emerging leaders can network, enhance leadership skills and improve the Greater Akron community. torchbearersakron.com, @tb_akron

Akron Urban League Young Professionals

This group, an extension of the Akron Urban League, o ers opportunities for emerging leaders ages 21-40 to participate in professional development programs, philanthropy and civic engagement with an emphasis on the minority community. akronurbanleague.org, @akronulup

Emerging Leaders United Young supporters who value the importance of philanthropy and support the work of United Way Summit & Medina Counties are invited. Annual dues are $50, and members channel their talents to advance the common

good while expanding their social and professional networks.

uwsummit.org@uwsummitmedina

Young Black Professionals Coalition (YBPC)

A nonprofit organization, the YBPC focuses on the professional and social development of future leaders, including high school and college students. Workshops, social activities and continuous education are aimed at improving the overall minority community. ybpc.info

yStark

A program of the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce, yStark o ers networking, professional development and civic engagement opportunities for young professionals in Stark County. ystark.org, @ystarkyp

Twenty Under 40!

Twenty under 40! is the signature event of yStark and recognizes young professionals across the business, civic, arts, education and nonprofit sectors. Each demonstrates dynamic leadership and social responsibility in the workplaces and community. ystark.org, @ystarkyp

United Way of Greater Stark County Young Leaders Society (YLS)

A group of passionate young professionals 35 and under come together to educate, engage and inspire individuals across Greater Stark County. uwstark.org, @uwstark

Leadership Stark County Spotlight Program

Two Spotlight sessions a year are open to young professionals in their 20s and 30s ready to take their careers to the next level. It’s a great option for employers to cultivate leadership potential in their young employees. Apply online. leadershipstarkcounty.org, @leadershipstarkcounty

yStark’s Twenty Under 40

PHOTO COURTESY OF YSTARK

PHOTO COURTESY OF GREATER AKRON CHAMBER

PHOTOS COURTESY OF TORCHBEARERS

Business Pleas e?

Whether you’re on a journey or a jaunt— around the world or across town— Akron-Canton has the means to make your travel easy and a ordable.

CAK

Located just eight miles from downtown Akron and 10 miles from downtown Canton, the Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) is big enough to boast 18 non-stop flights but small enough to be easily navigated. Parking is just steps away from the terminal. And no wandering long halls just to get to the baggage claims. Shorter lines and fewer people mean less confusion and easier travel. With on-site car rentals, ride share and shuttles available, your trip will be a snap.

Fly from CAK on Allegiant, American, Breeze, or United, and start your adventure the moment you leave your door. CAK connects to 150+ cities with just one-stop and 99+ destinations. The airport’s free business lounge, sensory room and the kids Step2® PlayPort are just three of the amenities in the bright, clean terminal that have been expanded and renovated in recent years.

CLE

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport—about 35 miles northwest of Akron—o ers over 53 nonstop destinations. It’s the busiest airport in Ohio and easily reached from Akron via the interstate.

AKR

The Akron Executive Airport, formerly the Fulton Airport, is on the city’s east side and serves private planes, including corporate jets. The airport is home to full hangars for corporate aircraft and condo hangars for single-engine planes.

The airport is sta ed from 6 a.m. until midnight seven days a week and o ers first-class services including

PHOTO COURTESY OF AKRON-CANTON AIRPORT

fuel, passenger and pilot lobbies, car rental, catering, aircraft repair, flight training, aircraft rental or charter, and pilot supplies.

PUBLIC TRANSIT

Akron METRO Regional Transit Authority serves Summit County and transports six million passengers a year. Real-time tracking on any mobile device allows riders to watch their bus in route. You can text your bus stop ID to 321-123 to find out when the next bus is leaving from your stop or download the MyStop app and sign up for alerts.

All fixed-route buses are equipped with bike racks. On weekdays, METRO’s DASH service runs a loop from the transit center through downtown Akron, to The University of Akron and back. The service is free.

In 2023, METRO was awarded $37 million through the Infrastructure Act to update facilities on its Broadway campus downtown.

Greyhound Bus Lines operates out of the same transit center on Broadway as METRO. It includes a café, an ATM and a community room

Amtrak has lines/stops in Cleveland and Alliance, southeast of Canton, for passenger and cargo transit.

The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority, or SARTA, has 34 fixed routes in Alliance, Akron, Canton, Cleveland, Jackson Township, Louisville, Massillon and North Canton. SARTA Provides approximately 5,000 work rides a day and offers high-tech rider tools such as PinPoint and EZfare. For riders with ADA recognized disabilities, SARTA operates a countywide service, Proline, that picks up riders at a point of origin and takes them to their destination.

SARTA has been a leader in green transportation. Working with researchers at The Ohio State University, SARTA developed a program to promote the use of buses powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Eco-friendly SARTA Bus

Akron METRO Regional Transit terminal

PHOTO COURTESY OF SARTA

ROOTS

ing the past; shaping the fut e

WhatHkind of place inspires oatmeal and punk rock? Tires and canals? AA and POTUS? Akron-Canton has deep roots that require respect. Without roots, there is no tree.

The Akron History Center in downtown Akron is now under construction to open before the City’s bicentennial celebration in 2025. Framed by Locks 2, 3 and 4 of the old Ohio & Erie Canal, the building on South Main Street—itself historic— will have three floors of exhibits highlighting the growth of the city on the hill. Indigenous artifacts found on the Portage Path, hardware from the canal’s construction, music from our place in punk rock history—no part of the city’s evolution will be overlooked. The $2 million cost is being covered by private and public grants and gifts.

Hale Farm and Village in Bath Township is an outdoor living history museum that was once the homestead

of one of the area’s first white settlers. It has 32 historic buildings, farm animals, handcrafting demonstrations and heritage gardens.

COOL THING: Tap in at the Maple Sugaring Festival, complete with pancake breakfast. wrhs.org

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens , built by the founding family of Goodyear, is a 65-room example of the American Country Estate period set on 70 acres of green space and historic gardens in Akron. USA Today called the guided tour the best historic home tour in America. The Manor House, constructed in 1912-15, is in the Tudor Revival style. The English garden was done by pioneering female architect Ellen Biddle Shipman and is one of the only Shipman gardens open to the public. The Gate Lodge is the site of the first meeting of Dr. Bob Smith

and Bill Wilson, founders of Alcoholics Anonymous.

MUST GO: Ohio Mart, an outdoor market with Elizabethan flair and Deck the Hall, one of the largest lights displays in Ohio. stanhywet.org

Colonel Simon Perkins, Jr, the son of Akron’s founder, built a Greek Revival home in west Akron in 1837 that is known today as the Perkins Stone Mansion. It is open for self-guided and guided tours. Across the street is the 1830 home of abolitionist John Brown. Perkins farmed 1,300 head of sheep with Brown’s assistance, thus earning the name of Mutton Hill. Tickets include both homes.

DON’T MISS: a sheep herding demonstration with border collies. summithistory.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FIRST LADIES NATIONAL HISTORIC

Beyond Camelot: The Life and Legacy of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

A 96-foot-high dome of pink granite in Canton marks the final resting place of William McKinley, the 25th president of the United States. The bodies of McKinley and his wife lie side by side in two green granite sarcophagi. The William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum is adjacent to the tomb.

TRY THIS: Kids can slide down a firepole at the museum’s Street of Shops, a replica of a historic town that includes a fire station. mckinleymuseum.org

The First Ladies National Historic Site consists of two properties in downtown Canton, the home of First Lady Ida Saxton-McKinley and a visitor center. Visitors learn about how the position of First Lady has evolved over time. Tours start at the visitor center where you’ll find The National First Ladies Library, the foremost repository

of scholarly research about the First Ladies of the United States.

DON’T MISS: An exhibit on the life of the elegant Jackie O runs through April 2024. firstladies.org

The Akron Civic Theatre on South Main Street was built in 1929 by Marcus Loew and designed by famed theater architect John Eberson. The interior structure was fashioned after a Moorish castle. The Civic is one of only five remaining atmospheric theaters in the country where patrons experience a twinkling star-lit sky on the ceiling inside the auditorium. The Grand Lobby has been restored to its former glory and an additional performance space called the Knight Stage allows intimate shows. A deck overlooking Lock 3 Park and spectacular murals bring the theater experience outside and into the 21st century better than ever.

CHECK OUT: Wild Oscar’s, a new 60seat venue underneath the Civic and open to Lock 4. akroncivic.com

The Rubber Worker in the center of downtown is a 12-foot high cast bronze statue of a man wrapping a tire with rubber. Rubber built Akron, and we never forget it. Across from the statue is a plaza paved with bricks dedicated to Akron’s rubber workers. It includes a kiosk to view and listen to archival footage and oral histories.

FOR MORE: Read about Akron and rubber in Wheels of Fortune by Steve Love and David Giffels. Available on Amazon.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CANTON VISITORS BUREAU

PHOTO COURTESY OF CANTON VISITORS BUREAU

Perkins Stone Mansion

Hale Farm and Village Akron Civic Theatre

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

PLACE

Medina’s Gazebo

Find y r happy place in A -Cant .

We’re the Goldilocks of regions. We’re big enough—more than one million people. But we’re not too big—no long commutes or traffic jams.

There are so many amazing places to live in Akron-Canton, we can’t list them all. But we’ll give you a range. Numbers are based on information from the U.S. Census Bureau where available and from area realtors.

Medina County

One of the fastest growing and wealthiest counties in Ohio, Medina is situated between Akron and Cleveland. It has three small cities scattered among 18 rural townships.

Medina

Home to a storybook downtown, the city works hard to maintain its small-town charm.

Population: 26,033

Median Home Value: $188,100

Check Out: The shops and restaurants on Medina Square

Wadsworth

A rapidly growing city, its population increased more than 10 percent from 2010 to 2020

Population: 24,521

Median Home Value: $183,600

Go To: The five-day Blue Tip Festival each June

Brunswick

The largest and most northern city in Medina County draws people who work in Akron and Cleveland.

Population: 34,902

Median Home Value: $178,000

Brunswick’s name was picked via a community contest in 1815.

Sharon Township

Once wide-open farmland, Sharon has some of the area’s most magnificent homes.

Population: 5,892

Median Home Value: $340,900

Enjoy: Concerts at the charming Sharon Center Circle

Hinckley Township

Home of the spectacular Hinkley Reservation park with its ledges.

Population: 8,028

Median Home Value: $329,600

Go To: The ledges in March when the buzzards come home to roost

Portage County

This county makes up the eastern part of the Akron-Canton region. It has two college towns, a medical school, working farms and small cities. It’s traversed by two east-west interstates.

Canal Square Lofts

Kent

The city is home to the main campus of Kent State University and has a great music scene and plenty to do.

Population: 27,147

Median Home Value: $163,100

Insider Info: It’s home to the Davey Tree Expert Co., thus the nickname “Tree City.”

Aurora

This affluent area is in both Akron’s and Cleveland’s orbit.

Population: 17,528

Median Home Value: $312,000

Born There: Actress Ann Heche

Summit County

Between Cleveland and Canton, Summit County is diverse with city, suburban and rural living options.

AKRON

Population: 188,509

Downtown

Central city is becoming the first choice of millennials, students and empty nesters.

Average Rent: $1,002

Insider Info: Luxury lofts are the heart of downtown living

Ellet

This community has blue-collar roots but has in recent years attracted whitecollar professionals with families.

Average Home Value: $150,000

Yum: Stricklands Frozen Custard on Triplett Boulevard

Merriman Hills

Stately homes built mainly in the 1920s for tire executives still grace this elegant neighborhood.

Average Home Value: $375,000

Insider Info: Portage Path was briefly the western boundary of the United States

Highland Square

Known as the artsiest Akron neighborhood, it’s where singles mix with families. Sixty percent are renters.

Average Home Value: $145,000

Hangout: Mustard Seed Market & Café

Fairlawn Heights

An affluent corner of Akron so named because it sits on a hill overlooking West Market Street near the city of Fairlawn

Average Home Value: $253,400

Insider Info: It has Akron’s largest concentration of owner-occupied homes

Firestone Park

Harvey Firestone designed this stable community in 1915 for employees of his tire company.

Average Home Value: $128,000

Insider Info: The park at its heart is the shape of the Firestone shield.

Sherbondy Hill

Once called Lane Wooster, the neighborhood recently was renamed to honor one of Akron’s founding families.

Average Home Value: $79,900

Insider Info: Sherbondy Hill cemetery dates to 1907.

Barberton

Once strictly blue collar, Barberton is blossoming. It has a hospital, a children’s theater, art galleries and intriguing shops.

Population: 24,826

Median Home Value: $91,200

Green

Barberton is known as The Magic City and has claimed purple as its civic color.

A city that’s seen rapid growth, Green was voted one of the best places to live by Businessweek.com. It is situated between Akron and Canton, and near the Portage Lakes.

Population: 27,269

Median Home Value: $216,700

Happy Distraction: Hiking at Boettler Park

Hudson

Between Akron and Cleveland, Hudson has the feel of a New England town and has preserved its history as a settlement of the Western Reserve

Population: 22,917

Median Home Value: $370,900

Happy Distraction: The Learned Owl on Main Street is a booklover’s bookstore.

Cuyahoga Falls

The Falls, as it’s called, has revitalized its downtown, and the main drag—State Road—has plenty of shopping.

Population: 50,665

Median Home Value: $139,600

Check Out: the summer splashpad in the heart of downtown

The Bowery District Apartments

Barberton

Firestone Park

Onesto, Canton

Tallmadge

City of Green Music Festival

The Goodrich Apartments

Main Street Hudson

PHOTO BY JOSEPH ALBERT

Twinsburg

Halfway between Akron and Cleveland, Twinsburg is an unusual mix of a strong industrial base and a suburban vibe

Population: 19,416

Median Home Value: $234,000

Twins Moses and Aaron Wilcox founded the town.

Stark County

Known as “America’s Playing Field,” Stark County residents are big sports fans. Its primary cities are Canton, Alliance, Massillon and Louisville, but it also has many rural areas and thriving suburbs.

CANTON

Population: 70,426

Central City

With the conversion of historic buildings into upscale lofts and apartments, downtown attracts millennials and empty nesters.

Recent Rent: $1,082/month

Don’t Miss: Everything downtown has to offer.

Historic Ridgewood

With its brick-lined streets, 1920s homes and old-fashioned lampposts, this neighborhood is the definition of gracious.

Median Home Value: $385,000 Ridgewood has a homeowners association.

Avondale

An upscale neighborhood with lovely homes and plenty of green space.

Median Home Value: $375,000

Test scores at Avondale Elementary School are far above the national average

Market Heights

Off Market Ave. between 30th St. NW and 37th St. NW, this neighborhood took off in the 1920s.

Recent Sale: $178,000

Insider Info: The first recorded deed was in 1813

Jackson Township

One of 15 Stark County townships, Jackson is set between Akron and Canton. People work in both cities. It has many elegant, newer houses.

Population: 42,769

Median Home Value: $224,200

Don’t Miss: Shopping at Belden Village Mall

Massillon

Once a booming canal town, Massillon has a fascinating museum, a historic downtown and a passion for high school football.

Population: 32,292

Median Home Value: $110,700

Born There: David Canary, famous for his role as Adam Chandler on All My Children

North Canton

Voted the best place to live in Stark County by Niche.com, residents like its conveniences and housing options.

Population: 17,687

Median Home Value: $165,700

Check Out: The elegant Lake Cable neighborhood

FIND YOUR PLACE

Hartville

Look up “small town” in the dictionary and you’ll find Hartville. Although its growing, it still maintains the feel of its rural roots. Home to one of the biggest flea markets in the country.

Population: 3,286

Median Home Value: $177,400

Yum: The Hartville Chocolate Factory

Carroll County

In the foothills of the Appalachians, Carroll county is hilly and rural. No big cities here, but plenty of lovely lakes and beautiful vistas.

Carrollton

Carrollton, the county seat is about 25 miles southeast of Canton draws those who like its rural feel.

Population: 3,092

Median Home Value: $124,416

Must Go: The Algonquin Mill Festival in the fall has crafts, food vendors and tours of the mill complex.

Minerva

Part of three counties (Stark, Columbiana and Carroll) is a historic village along the Lincoln Highway (S.R. 30) with plenty of charm.

Population: 3,224

Median Home Value: $97,800

Go Here: The Sandy Springs Brewing Co. is a stunning place with lovely overnight accommodations.

MORE LOVE

107 North Canton was named one of the best cities to live in by a 24/7 Wall Street analysis, which was published by USA Today

108 Akron and Canton are reinventing their downtowns, as private developers join in to create vibrant work-play-live communities in the heart of their cities.

What’s in the works in Akron:

♥ Overall, more than $176 million has been invested in new residential housing in downtown Akron since 2018, allowing people of all ages to experience the joys of city living.

♥ Lock 3, Akron’s Central Park, is currently undergoing a $10 million makeover to make it a year-round attraction. Locks 2 and 4, adjacent to Lock 3, have already undergone significant transformation.

♥ Akron’s Main Street recently underwent a $45 million, three-year-long facelift that includes new walkways, bike lanes and landscaping.

♥ The Bowery District is a bustling work-play-live hub on South Main Street in downtown Akron. Developers invested $42 million to renovate six historic buildings into modern luxury apartments, retail and office space.

♥ A group of Northeast Ohio investors purchased two buildings at the former B.F. Goodrich plant, known as Canal Place, and turned them into 139 upscale apartments at a cost of $40 million. It is called, naturally, The Goodrich.

What’s in the works in Canton:

♥ The Centennial Plaza in downtown Canton has an event field, massive video screen and 11 towering pylons with the names of all NFL players in the league’s history.

♥ The Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Co., affiliated with the Hall of Fame Village, recently renovated the DoubleTree hotel in downtown Canton at an estimated cost of $21 million.

VISIT ... the CANTON MUSEUM of ART

and explore 3 major EXHIBITIONS throughout the year. Open 6 days a week, closed on Mondays - FREE Admission on Thursdays. Learn more about each exhibit, SCHOOL OF ART, admission, hours and more at cantonart.org

Family a lbum

Re F o R estation o F the imagination

Find a date, time and location that work for you.

Keeping kids in the game is important. So, we’ve made it easy to schedule your child’s sports medicine visits, sick visits and well visits at Akron Children’s. Whether your child is a new or existing patient, simply go online to find a time and location that work best for you.

We are the official sports health services provider for Akron Zips Athletics.

Schedule an appointment online right now at akronchildrens.org/appointments

They play hard, so we make scheduling appointments easy.