JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7 • THEDEVILSTRIP.COM
city fit for a King
FREE the heRonS Rubber capitol
old c laSSicS
FOOD
new favoRiteS
MUSIC
CULTURE Get
galley
youR
jojoS
BOyS FreSh locAl
hOt meatS
and a
cheeSe Salad
the pRide of
Derby 17
DOWnS
akRon
JULY 29 More Details at
LOCK 3 PG IN THE STUDIO WITH ANDY 14 TARAY & THE SOCIAL DEPT.
PG WHERE’D ALL THE BUMBLEBEES 18 GO? UA IS TRYING TO FIND OUT.
SignaltreefeSt.com
PG WHAT’S HAPPENING AT 30 SIGNAL TREE FEST?
Signal Tree Festival Info and Schedule on page 30!
Section Title
AGENDA 5
The Devil’s Dozen
6
There’s Nothing to Do in Akron
THE PALETTE
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12 What’s the Big Idea with Akron ArtWorks? 12 E. Exchange Street • 2nd Floor Akron, Ohio 44308
Publisher: Chris “wishes he were barbigerous” Horne Email: chris@thedevilstrip.com Phone: 1-330-KL5-3226 Art Director: Alesa “doesn’t sleep” Upholzer, Talented and Patient Managing Editor: M. Sophie “Has Many Names, Wears Many Hats” Franchi – sophie@thedevilstrip.com Visuals Editor: Svetla “The Balkan Comrade” Morrison Director of Sales & Distribution: TJ "is in fact a Newsie, hat and all" Masterson TJ@thedevilstrip.com Staff Writers, Columnists & The A/V Club: Sierra Allen, Kills it at TDS Facebook Live; Emily “Lady Beer Drinker” Anderson; Brett “The Red-bearded Intern” Auerbach; Holly “The Wanderer” Brown; Ali Burden, Woman of Many Good Pitches; Claude “Got to Hold a Bumblebee in His Hand” Christensen; Dave “Baseball Now!” Daly; Drew “is kind of a big deal in Haiti” Dawson; Taylor “No Relation to Drew” Dawson; Sam "Buzzkilling Feminist" DePaul; Emily “Potty Perfectionist” Dressler and Marissa Marangoni, Bathroom Culture Enthusiast; Brian “Wemlo Twinge” Dunphy; Kelcie “Not Just Burgers and Breakfasts Anymore” Erbse; Gray “Always Beats Deadline” Giaconia; Dan “The Akron Knight” Gorman; Paul “I don’t write but I can draw” Hoffman; Katie “Miss Scarlet in the Conservatory with a candlestick” Jackson; Josy “is everywhere already” Jones; Kurt “Needs a Whimsical Nickname” Kleinham; Jacob Luther, the Towny Town Toonist; TJ “Don’t Call Me Shirley” Masterson; Brittany “Sass Master Flash” Nader; Krissy "Someone make me a real fish taco before I go insane" O'Connor; Nicole “likes the way Akron sounds” Stempak; Kayla Sturm, the Sassiest of the Glam; Bradley “The Early Warning System” Thorla; Floco “no wonder he’s a lover and a writer” Torres; Steve “is not a zombie” Van Auken; Patrick “Pattycakes” Worden; The Shane Wynn Supremacy; Ted “Super No Bueno” Zep
14 How Andy Taray went from collecting T-shirts to designing them
CULTURE CLUB 16 Get out (to Blue Hen & Buttermilk Falls) 18 UA’s quest for the rusty patched bumblebee 22 “Baseball Now!” goes softballin’.
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table of contents
AKROPRENEURS
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23 What did Evan Delahanty of Peaceful Fruits wish he knew? 25 How one UA student organization is building a connection with Haiti through coffee
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THE DISH 26 Locavore Lovin’ from the Oven is BACK! With garlic scapes!
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27 Lady Beer Drinker checks out Two Monks Brewing
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28 Akron Pizza Task Force: Mission DeCheco’s
THE SCENE 31 We think you should know these six Akron bands. 34 The Conway Brothers tried to tell us 34 On Stage with Jeff Hardy, the guy who brought us “We Got the Blimp”
12 Meet Yoshi! She is around 8 years old and arrived at our shelter in after her owner was no longer able to care for her. Yoshi is your "purr-fect" lap cat! She loves to be
OPTAB D
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CONTACT US:
———————————————————— The Devil Strip is published bi-monthly by Random Family, LLC. Akron Distribution: The Devil Strip is available free of charge, limited to one copy per reader. Copyright: The entire contents of The Devil Strip are copyright 2017 by Random Family, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Publisher does not assume any liability for unsolicited manuscripts, materials, or other content. Any submission must include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All editorial, advertising, and business correspondence should be mailed to the address listed above.
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13 The second National Center for Choreography opens in Akron
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PETS
right by your side soaking up lots of love and pets. Yoshi also enjoys being held and cuddled. Despite how much she loves on you, she leaves very little (if any) fur on your clothes. She has potential to get along with dogs and cats who are around her same age and activity level. She has lived with other cats prior to arriving at our shelter. Come meet Yoshi today! Beagle is 8 years old and weighs about 45 pounds. Don't let his age fool you this boy has some spunk and loves toys of all kinds. He already knows sit and is ready to learn more. Beagle has good potential with other dogs and needs a home an adult only low traffic home. If you think Beagle is the one for you stop down and meet him today! PAWSibilities Humane Society of Greater Akron 7996 Darrow Rd., Twinsburg, OH 44087 | 1.888.588.8436 | 330.487.0333 info@summithumane.org | www.summithumane.org | www.facebook.com/summithumane
JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7 /
THE Devil Strip |
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Somewhere in everyone's head something points toward home, a dashboard's floating compass, turning all the time to keep from turning. It doesn't matter how we come to be wherever we are, someplace where nothing goes the way it went once, where nothing holds fast to where it belongs, or what you've risen or fallen to.
Q: Is the Signal Tree Festival happening at the Signal Tree? A: Nope. It’s at Lock 3. Q: Then why call it Signal Tree Fest? A: Because it’s a celebration of what makes Akron unique, the people and things that distinguish this city from others.
— from "The Shrinking Lonesome Sestina" by Miller Williams
Q: Huh? A: That’s what the Signal Tree did hundreds of years ago for travelers coming off the Cuyahoga River. It told them they were at the Portage Path. Now, it’s a symbol of Akron itself, the kind of thing that tells you where you are. Q: But why not something like Blimp City Fest or the Rubber City Celebration? A: We love the blimp, and rubber will forever be in the city’s cultural DNA. However, the blimp flies over hundreds of cities and every city has tires, which are now mostly made somewhere else. But, the Signal Tree endures. It’s rooted here, preceding tires, blimps, the canal, oatmeal, marbles, Sojourner Truth, John Brown, Pflueger, AA, AASBD, the PBA, the first police car, the first championship team of what would become the NFL and for that matter, the city itself. The Signal Tree was a harbinger of the Akron’s fascinating quirks and is now a fitting emblem for them, from Cadillac Hill, paprikash, sauerkraut balls and the Soap Box Derby to Lawson’s Chip Dip, jojos, Galley Boys and the Glendale Steps.
Pub Notes>>> It’s Not Where You’re From (It’s Where You’re At) A couple weeks ago, I went back to Georgia for my Mammaw’s birthday, which she and I celebrated over pulled pork and chicken salad with Fox News on mute. At dinner, my Mom told me I saved notes from the tooth fairy, Easter Bunny and Santa to compare the handwriting. If I was born with that skepticism,
Pictured above: Signal Tree (Photo by Rob Vaughn)
daily, seeing nothing else because it looks like Anywhere, USA. You have to get beneath the surface to find the city’s real treasures. Which is true of most places. Which is why I love the Signal Tree. Like most things Akron — devil strips, professional female mud wrestling, Lewis
from its surface you might as well be anywhere. Where’s the fun in that? Being deeply local is about being more deeply alive. These points of distinction do more than
Signal Tree online while still in Georgia. It was photographer Bruce Ford's gorgeous, striking wintertime portrait, which I later contemplated
help us know where we are. They help us know who we are. It’s about people.
ganking when I saw it in the mayor’s office. Fortunately, before venturing into criminal
Thanks to the way I live — viva la vida local #sorrynotsorry — I’m connected to the folks who make the shirts I wear, prepare the food I
territory, my friend Allyson Boyd gifted me a framed copy of her dad’s photo. That was at the party announcing we’d won a Knight Cities Challenge grant for Unbox Akron, two weeks after The Devil Strip launched. Almost every
haze just long enough to appreciate how much be apocryphal — Nathan Eppink from Summit has changed in the four years, this month, since Metro Parks offers a challenge to it on page we moved to Akron. 30 — but it’s still powerful. As the legend goes, the Signal Tree marked the Portage Path From the outside, Macon doesn’t look like much. so Native Americans knew where they were The city is disguised by Interstate exits lined as they traveled down the Cuyahoga River. It
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adamantly local. If you only experience the city
Miller and his architectural church design called the “Akron Plan” — I learned about the
it came with equal parts optimism. When I got my rental stuck in Mom’s muddy driveway an hour before I had to get to the airport, I asked day since, I’ve looked at that photo hung by my for her help instead of calling a tow. In between front door. all that, I caught up with old friends and visited a few old haunts, fanning away the nostalgic The story of the Signal Tree may, it turns out,
with gas stations, hotels and chain restaurants, like the Applebee’s where I waited tables when my writing didn’t pay. Thousands pass through
How do you know you’re in Akron, OH instead of Syracuse, NY or Des Moines, IA or Las Vegas, NV or Macon, GA or anywhere else? Answering that question every month is why we’re so
was the perfect metaphor for the festival we were organizing with our friends at Lock 3, a celebration of what makes Akron unique.
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
eat, run the nonprofits I support, create the art I enjoy and mix the drinks that caffeinate me ...and the dranks that intoxicate me. Though they’d be wise to deny it, I call many of these people my friends. Now, no math can calculate how much better my life is compared to our first year in Akron when I worked in Cleveland and seldom explored what this city offers. Even though it’d have been a hectic summer regardless, starting Signal Tree Fest was a nobrainer. This festival lets me celebrate a place that’s given me and my family so much while doing it alongside the people who’ve made our lives so rich. For us, that’s what being here is all about.
Chris
Q: Wow. I’m kind of like super-excited about it now. A: No question. I mean literally, that’s not a question. But I appreciate the chance to further plug Signal Tree Fest at Lock 3 on Sat., July 29. We start at 9 am with Rock Mill’s Yoga Brunch. Then at 10 am, we welcome families for fun hosted by the Akron Children's Museum with the kids’ ice skating rink, human foosball, a movie on the jumbotron and art with smART Studio’s Jennifer Davis. Around lunch, Big Kid Recess (aka - playtime for grown-ups) begins with volleyball, cornhole and other games provided by Downtown Akron Partnership featuring entertainment provided by Jilly’s Music Room. Come hungry because we’re introducing the first ever Akron Food Challenge, plus food trucks like Swensons and The Square Scullery, plus carts from Stray Dog and Popsmith. Throughout the day, we’ll have cold treats from Strickland’s and later on, adult milkshakes by Pav’s Creamery, too. PS - After lunch, Thirsty Dog’s Lock 3 Tap Room opens! From 2pm to 5pm, vendors from both Oddmall and Crafty Mart — OddMart, shall we? — take over Lock 4 as we kickoff an all-local slate of live music that features almost a dozen acts throughout the festival. As evening rolls in, the lineup moves to the big stage at Lock 3, playing late as the Mighty Soul Night DJs, followed by Jul Big Green, close us out. Along the way, we’ll enjoy performances by the Ohio Shakespeare Festival and Neos Dance Theatre, among others. Get more details or purchase VIP tickets at signaltreefest.com
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agenda
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OUR PICKS FOR THE 12 BEST CHOICES YOU CAN MAKE THIS MONTH Wedensday, July 5
Thursday, July 13
µ Jake’s Reach Meeting
é Lo-Hio 2017
Lawton St Community Center, 1225 Lawton St 6 - 8pm This is an opiate addiction awareness meeting inspired by a young man, Jacob Marr who died of Fentanyl/Heroin overdose. Hear messages of hope from addicts, families of addicts and from family members who have lost addicts. Learn how to safely administer NARCAN to avoid overdose, and how to get your loved ones into recovery. For more information call 330-255-9376 or 330-990-0065
Friday, July 7
ë Last Show at Fool Mansion
487 Crouse St Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N Main St 7 - 11pm 6pm - Midnight Fool Mansion is a true underground Akron Join Lo-Hio at Jilly’s for a night of bass guitarists. venue. The shows take place in the basement of Bassists get overlooked all too often, but this a regular house and performers and audience event is specifically intended to showcase the members are within feet of each other. They badassery of the bass. You’ll leave with a new build off each other’s energy. If you’re a fan of appreciation for bass guitar. Admission is free, Fool Mansion, you’ve got to come out to see the but there will be raffle prizes throughout the last show of the venue, and if you’ve never been, night, with proceeds to benefit the Akron/ this is your last chance for this unique concert Canton Food Bank. : lohiobass experience. The bands Save Face and Hot
Saturday, July 15 è UDS All-Star Jam
Friday, July 21
Saturday, July 29
St. Vincent-St. Mary Lebron James Arena,
15 N Maple St í Outdoor Ethnic Summer Cooking Class Crown Point Ecology Center, 3220 Ira Rd All day, registration at 8am 6 - 9pm For all kids in grades 3-8, this is a fantastic opportunity to support the USD All-Star Training Learn about the food and culture of Iraq with Iraqi asylee Eman at Crown Point’s Club and have a great time playing basketball. outdoor wood burning oven. At this handsIn partnership with the United Disabilities on style cooking class, you will learn to Services, a keynote speech by Willie McGee make authentic seasonal and traditional will be provided. McGee has won medals
night with hip-hop. Grab a cheap drink at the bar and get your booty on the dance floor. Thursdayslounge.com
Saturday, July 8 ç Sustainable Saturday: Summit ReWorks & Plastic Bag Upcycling Akron Sustainer at Cascade Lofts, 21 W North St 11am - Noon Learn about proper recycling and composting
Admission is free. letsgrowakron.org
ï The Signal Tree Festival Lock 3, 200 S Main St 10am to midnight Join the all-day celebration as Lock 3 and The Devil Strip team up to showcase all of Akron’s culture: past, present and future. The Signal Tree Festival is a giant mish-mash of everything that makes Akron the amazing city we love.
in paralympic and is a member of the Cavs Wheelchair Basketball Team. Registration forms
Iraqi food while learning more about Eman’s country and culture. Tickets are $35.
Food, drink, music, art, fun...you name it. At our all-day celebration of the city, you’ll get
can be filled out ahead of time online, and the clinic is free. Udsakron.org
Localabundancekitchen.org
as much Akron as you have time to stay for. Admission is free. Signaltreefest.com
Thursday, July 20 ê Elevate Akron Outdoor Yoga Festival
& Vinyasa Class Lock 3, 200 S Main St. with Let’s Grow Akron and Summit ReWorks 4:30 - 10pm at the Akron Sustainer and take part in an upcycling workshop. If you’ve ever thought that Elevate Akron presents its fourth annual yoga festival with beer and wine, live music, food you would like to be more environmentallyminded but didn’t know how to start, this event trucks and a vendors’ market. If you practice is a great introduction to sustainable living.
Hardesty Park, 1615 W Market St 6 - 10pm From Swensons to Fleming’s, Akron’s best
Mulligan will be performing, and the suggested donation for attendance is $5. : foolmansion
Thursday’s Lounge, 306 E Exchange St Plan for a night of fantastic music in a variety of styles. Time Cat brings high-energy rock music, while the Beyonderers play instrumental surf rock. Floco Torres will round out the
î 12th Annual Taste of Akron
restaurants will gather to give you the opportunity to sample their amazing appetizers, entrees and desserts. If there’s a restaurant you’ve always wanted to try but never had the time or wanted to spend the money, this is the solution. If you’re just looking to find new food options, you’ll find a ton here. Each sample will cost 1, 2 or 3 tickets, and tickets are $2 each (admission is free). Akronartsexpo.org
å Time Cat, Beyonderers, Floco Torres 9pm - Midnight
Thursday, July 27
Saturday, July 22 ì 80th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby
Saturday, July 29 and Sunday, July 30
International Soap Box Derby, 789 Derby Downs Dr. ‹ Akron Arts Expo Hardesty Park, 1615 W Market St 8am - 4pm 10am - 6pm Saturday; 10am - 5pm Sunday Soap Box Derbies happen all over the world, but the most important one is here in Akron, where Soap Box Champions from across the
Come see amazing fine arts and crafts at great prices with an interactive children’s area, musicians and performances by local dance
yoga, this is a must-attend event. But even if you don’t do yoga, you might want to give it
globe come to compete. Leading up to the race on Saturday there will be a downtown parade and an opening ceremony at Lock 3. Tickets
a shot with how much there is to enjoy at this event. Elevateakron.com
and parking are free (there is also a free shuttle are $5 and can be purchased at the Derby Box Office on the day of the race. Soapboxderby.org from Firestone High School). Akronartsexpo.org
groups. And don’t worry about going hungry, because there will be food as well. Admission
//PHOTO CREDIT: Photo courtesy of Elevate Akron
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7 /
THE Devil Strip |
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agenda
There's Nothing to Do in Akron The Devil Strip’s comprehensive, monthly argument that there’s plenty of fun to be had in Akron
ONGOING
of Akron 225 S Main St Polsky Building, 5th Floor // 5:30pm // Learn about and gain practical advice on starting and operating a
Friday, July 7
Now-August 12
successful Nonprofit and For-Profit Business. Akron.score.org
Nathan Prebonick’s “SPAN” Opening Reception Nine Muses Art Gallery, 584 W Tuscarawas Ave 5-8 pm // Visit the art gallery to see painter Nathan Prebonick’s last show exhibiting his new work before he heads to graduate school at
Wednesday, July 12
the Rhode Island School of Design this fall. Summitartspace.org
Thursdays: July 6, 13, 20 & 27 Free Summer Movies Akron Summit County Public Library Main Branch, 60 S High St // 2pm // Enjoy a free family-friendly movie in the auditorium. Akronlibrary.org
From Saturday, July 6 Sunday, July 16 * Various Dates and Times William Shakespeare’s “As You Like It” Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 North Portage Path // 7:30-10pm // Enjoy Shakespeare’s classic comedy as it is performed outside in the Stan Hywet Gardens. showclix.com
Wednesday, July 5
Jackiem Joyner: “Main Street Beat” Album Release at BLU Jazz+ // BLU Jazz+, 45-47 E Market St // 8-11pm // This award winning Los Angeles soul-jazz saxophone sensation will be performing from his new album inspired by his newborn daughter. Blujazzakron.com
IMOMSOHARD Mom’s Night Out: Summer Break Tour Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S Main St // 8pm //
9pm // After an eight-year silence, Drop to Zero will co-headline with Amplexus once again. Tickets-Presale $10, additional $2 for
Witness the comedic moms behind the well known IMOMSOHARD web series live, and yeah, they're bringing the kids too.
under 21. All ages. Droptozeroband.com
Imomsohard.com
Dragon’s Mantle Psychic Fair
Friday, July 14 Saturday, July 15
962 Kenmore Boulevard // 10am-6pm // Join the rituals of Dragon’s Mantle by receiving a $10 psychic reading of your choice at their medieval fair. Dragonsmantle.webs.com
//PHOTO CREDIT: Photo courtesy of Blujazzakron.com
The Weeks w/ White Buffalo Women Musica, 51 E Market St // 9pm-12pm // $12 admission, additional $2 for those under 21. liveatmusica.com Time Cat, Beyonderers, Floco Torres Thursday’s Lounge, 306 E Exchange St 9pm-12am // Tickets are $5. : thursdayslounge (See Devil’s Dozen)
Jake’s Reach Meeting Lawton St Community Center, 1225 Lawton St 6-8pm // This is an opiate addiction awareness
Drop to Zero & Amplexus Musica 51 East Market St // Doors open at
Saturday, July 8
Clothing Swap NOTO North, 106 N Main St. // 11 am - Noon // Bring 1-20 items of gently used clothing and accessories to NOTO North the week prior to the swap, and owner Lauren will do the sorting. Then, on the day of the swap you'll receive a card upon entry with your name and the number of items you're allowed to select. notoboutique.com
Hope Over Heroin Summit/Stark Counties Grace Park Prospect // 7-10pm // Come join Hope Over Heroin, a collaborative church effort brought together to help the fight against addiction. Free admission. Hopeoverheroin.com
Friday, July 14
Sunday, July 9
meeting. For more information call 330-255-9376 or 330-990-0065 (See Devil’s Dozen)
Thursday, July 6 Friday, July 7
Akron Zoo Night with the Akron Racers Dragons on the Lake Festival Portage Lakes State Park, 5031 Manchester Rd 8am-5pm // Join the 5th Annual Dragons of the Lake Dragon Boat Festival and watch as teams return to defend their championship titles. Racing start at 9am. See article on page 19. Dragonsonthelake.com //PHOTO CREDIT: Photo courtesy of facebook.com/dragonsonthelake
Sustainable Saturday Series: Summit ReWork & Plastic Bag Upcycling Workshop Akron Sustainer at Cascade Lofts, 21 W North St // 11am-12pm // Learn about composting and recycling. Get your upcycle on with this workshop by Let’s Grow Akron and Summit The Odd Couple The Rialto Theater, 1000 Kenmore Boulevard Doors 6pm // Starring Charlie Shook & Bill Vail and Directed by Nate Vail. Tickets available at
ReWorks at Akron Sustainer. letsgrowakron.org (See Devil’s Dozen)
therialtotheatre.com • Therialtotheatre.com
Firestone Stadium, 1575 Firestone Parkway 4-7pm // Come discover and learn from the experts about all the different kinds of animals from the animal kingdom. : AkronRacers
Tuesday, July 11
The Dreemers Single Release Party 15 Broad Street // 9pm-1am // Come celebrate The Dreemers’ first single from their new album, “Beach Mode.” See Creatures and Logfever will also be performing. Thedreemers.bandcamp.com
Saturday, July 15
Caffeinated Ideas, In Cooperation with Braintree Business Development Center Akron Summit County Library, 60 S High St 10-11:30am // Get your ideas out there at the Micro Business Center meeting held for entrepreneurs to market their products to some pros. Registration is free. akronlibrary.org
Tuesday, July 11Wednesday, July 12 Non-Profit-Basics Workshop & Starting Your Own Business Workshop Taylor Institute for Direct Marketing-University
Andrea Rose Teodosio Memorial 5K Run and 1 Mile Walk Lock 3, 200 S Main St // 8am // Get your walking/running shoes on and support a good cause. Andrearose.org
//PHOTO CREDIT: Photo courtesy of therialtotheatre.com
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| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM
Activ Basic Sprin for all at any
Agenda UDS All-Star Jam St. Vincent-St. Mary Lebron James Arena, 15 N Maple St // All day, registration at 8am //
by CrossFit HighGear, join in the competition for a chance to win cash prizes. Teams vary in difficulty level. Thebuckeyegames.com
Registration forms can be filled out ahead of time online, and the clinic is free. Udsakron.org (See Devil’s Dozen) Our 7th Anniversary Open House Hazel Tree Interiors, 143 W Market St // 11am-5pm // Join the celebration and shop for fresh new artworks from local artists, furniture makers, vintage finds and home decor furnishings. Hazeltreeinteriors.com Family Fun Day Simon Perkins Stone Mansion, 550 Copley Rd 12-4pm // Free admission for families looking to have fun and celebrate the 93rd anniversary of preserving the mansion. Enjoy free craft projects, sheep herding demonstrations and tours of both the mansion and the historical John Brown House. summithistory.org
Maitri and Bluelight at the BLU Jazz+ BLU Jazz+, 47 E Market St // 6-9pm // Spend the evening listening to R&B, Soul and Indie inspired music by Maitri, a band from Brooklyn with singer-songwriter Caroline Davis. blujazzakron.com
Thursday, July 20
Thursdays: July 6, 13, 20, & 27, Aug 3 & 10 Akron Art Museum, 1 S High St 6:30 - 8:30 pm Now in its 33rd season, Downtown@Dusk is a great way to spend a summer night. Come out
Sunday, July 16
The Buckeye Games 2017 Rubber City Sports at Goodyear Hall, East Market St // 9am-5pm // Brought to you
Downtown@Dusk
to enjoy music from some of the best local bands on a new expanded stage with improved sound by Clear Gold Audio and Lighting. Earthquaker Devices will be there with a guitar effects demo lab, and Acme Fresh Market will be on site with some delicious food options. The museum cafe will have alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for your refreshment, and
Elevate Akron Outdoor Yoga Festival & Vinyasa Class Lock 3, 200 S Main St // 4:30-10pm // Elevate Akron presents its fourth annual yoga festival (continued on page 8)
there’s even a chance to win a pair of Audio-Technica USA wireless headphones. The best part is that it’s all taking place in the beautiful Bud & Susie Rogers Garden, and admission is free and open to everyone. If you can only make it to one of these this summer, be sure to check out the July 27 show with Shivering Timbers. For more information and a schedule of bands, visit Akronartmuseum.org. //PHOTO CREDIT: Photo courtesy of Akron Art Museum
Free AAA Membership Renewal Sprint will pay for your annual AAA membership renewal fee for as long as you remain a Sprint customer. Free AAA Classic or Basic membership. Renewal reqs. 1 active phone line of svc, AAA member number, and req. reg. at sprint.com/AAA w/in 30 days of phone activ.
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Activ. Fee: Up to $30/line. Credit approval req. Offers for AAA Members: For a limited time. AAA Renewal Offer: Ends 12/31/17 Avail. for active AAA members. Limit 1 free Classic/ Basic renewal fee per yr. per AAA member number. Classic/Basic renewal fee may be applied to AAA Plus or Premier fee. Fees paid by Sprint are non-refundable & non-transferable. Sprint Acct. must remain active & in good standing to receive offers. Excl. CL, MBB devices, tablets, Sprint Phone Connect. Other Terms: Offers/coverage not avail. everywhere or for all phones/networks. May not be combinable with other offers. Offers subj. to change according to AAA’s agreement w/ Sprint & may be modified, discontinued or terminated at any time w/out notice. Restrictions apply. @ 2017 Sprint. All rights reserved. Sprint & logo are trademarks of Sprint. Other marks are property of their respective owners.
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7 /
THE Devil Strip |
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agenda There's Nothing To Do in Akron
Saturday, July 22 Sunday, July 23
(continued from page 7) with local beer and wine, live music, food trucks, a vendors’ market and of course yoga! Elevateakron.com (See Devil’s Dozen) //PHOTO CREDIT: Photo courtesy of Elevate Akron
African-American Festival Pop Evil at the Goodyear Theater with Special Guest Citizen Zero The Goodyear Theater, 1201 E Market St 7-11pm // Tickets available at ticketfly.com Last Show at Fool Mansion Save
goodyeartheater.com
and Hot Mulligan 487 Crouse St // 7-11pm // Witness the last show ever at Fool Mansion. : foolmansion (See Devil’s Dozen)
Tuesday, July 25
Dance the night away to DJ Yama for some of the best Latin dance music in the area! The night will kick off with a free dance lesson at blujazzakron.com
Coup De Grace -The Brothers Band-Jake Dunn & The Blackbirds
Friday, July 21
Annabell’s Bar and Lounge, 784 W Market St 10pm-2am // Free Concert, 21 and up! : annabellsakron
at the University of Akron and freelance writer Elizabeth Winter-Sharpe will speak about the value of being your authentic self in relationships. h2hc.org
Wednesday, July 26
Outdoor Ethnic Summer Cooking Class Crown Point Ecology Center, 3220 Ira Rd // 6-9 pm // Local Abundance Kitchen and Crown Point Ecology Center have created a hands-on style cooking class where you can learn to cook traditional recipes from different countries while learning about the culture. Localabundancekitchen.org (See Devil’s Dozen)
Saturday, July 22 Grillin’ Out with Paul Wall Cookout/Concert The Vortex, 1167 Brittain Rd // 5pm // Free burgers, hotdogs, music and a chance to win a free custom grill. Pre-sale ticket counts as a free raffle ticket. thevortexakron.com
80th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby International Soap Box Derby, 789 Derby Downs Drive // 8am-4pm // The race will kick off after the Parade and opening ceremonies. soapboxderby.org (See Devil’s Dozen)
Mural Fest The Hub Art Factory, 336 6th St NW, Canton
10am-5pm // Enjoy wine tastings and touring the grounds while listening to live local folk music. wrhs.org
6-11pm // Celebrate murals and discover how they are created live. Thehubartfactory.com
Sunday, July 9
Friday, July 7-Sunday, July 9
Discover Shibori - One Day Workshop Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Avenue,
2017 Cuyahoga Falls Sommerfest Falls River Square, 2050 Riverfront Pkwy Friday: 5-11pm, Saturday: 12-11pm & Sunday: 12-8pm // Sommerfest this year will be hosted by the Cuyahoga Falls Oktoberfest Committee. Music from German Polka bands, food, games and of course beer. This festival is free.
12th Annual Taste of Akron Hardesty Park, 1516 W Market St // 6-10pm // Enjoy all that Akron’s best restaurants have to offer by sampling delicious appetizers, entrees and desserts while listening to music from Mo’ Mojo Music. : cityofakroncommunityevents (See Devil’s Dozen) //PHOTO CREDIT: Photo courtesy of facebook.com/HardestyPark
Just Outside Akron Friday, July 7
Thursday, July 27
Heart to Heart Quarterly Breakfast 292 E Market St // 7:30-8:45am // Hosted by Heart to Heart Communications, Senior Lecturer
Salsa $ Bachata Latin Dance Party BLU Jazz+, 47 E Market St // 9pm-12am //
8pm, so this event is perfect for beginners.
Lock 3, 200 S Main St // 12-9pm // The Akron Wake & Make Wednesdays: Coloring Club African-American Cultural Association(AACA) smART Studio, 678 Payne Ave. // 8-9:30am // presents its 37th Annual African-American Bring the kids, friends or bring your own inner Festival with live bands, good food, drum child for some coloring time! $5 admission workshop and more. Free admission on Friday, includes all supplies and tools you will need. No $10 after 4pm on Saturday. registration required. smartstudioakron.com Akronafricanculture.com
North Canton // 1:30- 4:30pm // Learn the traditional Japanese art of tying, folding,
Dancing with the Stars: Live “Hot Summer Nights” Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S Main St // 8pm Need more Dancing with the Stars? Come see and experience all your favorite dancers live
Summer Uncorked! Wine and Beer Tasting Hardesty Park, 1615 W Market St // 6-9 pm // An evening full of wine, craft beers and food
this summer for the cross country summer tour. from Robert J Events and Catering. $45 a ticket. With special pieces by four time Emmy nominee akronohio.gov/communityevents Mandy Moore. Akroncivic.com //PHOTO CREDIT: Photo Courtesy of DWTSTour.com (continued on page 10)
Wednesday, July 12
Saturday, July 22
Brews & Bracelets HiHO Brewing Company, 1707 Front St, Cuyahoga Falls // 6:30-8:30 pm // Forget wine and painting. Try making bracelets while drinking beers. $30 will get you a new bracelet and a 10 oz beer. hihobrewingco.com
Tuesday, July 18 Vans Warped Tour ‘17 Blossom Music Center 1145 W Steels Corners Rd, Cuyahoga Falls // 11am // The longest running music festival in North America comes
pleating and dying while creating your own silk scarf during this entertaining class. $70 for non- to Blossom. blossomcenter.net members, $56 for members. Cantonart.org
Monday, July 10 - Thursday, July 14
Friday, July 28
Mid-Summer’s Masquerade Fieldcrest Estate, 1346 Easthill St SE North Canton // 8pm-midnight // Enjoy an enchanted night of magic, mystical foods and music. Awards will be given out to the best dressed fairy. Tickets priced individually. Fieldcrestestate.com //PHOTO CREDIT: Photo courtesy of fieldcrestestate.com
Wednesday, July 19
Saturday, July 29 Kent Potterfest 2017 East Main St, Downtown Kent, Ohio 44240
oktoberfestcfo.com
Medina County Arts Week Festival
Best of Ohio 2017 101 Bottles of Beer on the Wall, 115 N Willow
Saturday, July 8 - Sunday, July 9
Medina County Arts Council, P.O. Box 532, Medina // 12-3pm // Enjoy art, performances, and creative activities at this free week-long
St, Kent // 6pm-2am // Enjoy the best beer tastings and food from 24 of Ohio’s Top Brewers. Just don’t forget to leave your car at
12-9pm // Enter the wizarding world of Acorn Alley and Hometown Bank Plaza as they transform into Diagon Alley and Gringott's Plaza.
festival. medinacountyartscouncil.org
home. 101bottlesofbeeronthewall.com
Free to all Potterheads. Mainstreetkent.org
Music in the Valley Folk & Wine Festival Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Rd, Bath
8
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
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Producer and Akron-native Mark Mitten visits Nightlight on July 15th. The compelling new doc is Abacus: Small Enough To Jail .
SHOWTIMES AT
NIGHTLIGHTCINEMA.COM
962 Kenmore Boulevard, Akron, Ohio 44314 330-687-5654 dragonsmantle@sbcglobal.net www.dragonsmantle.webs.com
30 N HIGH ST AKRON HISTORIC ARTS DISTRICT NEAR CRAVE, URBAN EATS, & NUEVO
Akron’s First Artisan Ice Cream Shop Open All Year • All Ice Cream Made on Premise
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Readings start at only $10!
Open Monday-Friday 11am-7pm, Saturday 10am-6pm
Serving Authentic Italian Cuisine for 86 years!
In the Historic Arts District | 30 N. High St. Akron, OH www.chill-icecream.com | (330) 649-2834
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1900 W Market St Akron, Ohio 44313
1900 W. Market St. • Akron, OH 44313 • 516-305-1039 Located in the Pat Catan's parking lot Sunday and Monday 12p - 5p • Tuesday - Saturday 10a - 5p
J
agenda There's Nothing To Do in Akron
proceeds from the event with go to improving the Summit County Agricultural Society Youth Park. summitfair.com
(continued from page 8)
Saturday, July 29 The Signal Tree Festival Lock 3, 200 S Main St 10 am to midnight Join the all-day celebration as Lock 3 and The Devil Strip team up to showcase all of Akron’s culture: past, present and future. Signaltreefest.com (See Devil’s Dozen) Corndogs & Carnage: 9th Year of Carnage Summit County Fairgrounds, 229 E Howe Rd 10am-2:30pm // Hosted by Akron Roller Derby,
WIN 2 LO$E: A Stand Up Comedy Gameshow Featuring Dustin Diamond The Rialto Theater, 1000 Kenmore Blvd // 6pm-12am // This standup comedy show will have you laughing until the early hours. Tickets are $20 adv. and $23 at the door. therialtotheatre.com
Corndogs and Carnage is celebrating their 9th year by inviting all participating skaters to 3 scrimmages. Admission: $6 for 8 years or older. akronrollerderby.org Take Off Charlie! The Empire Concert Club and Bar, 1305
// Photo courtesy of John Reeves
T HE INDIAN SIGNAL T REE – FACT OR FICT ION?
by Nathan Eppink, Chief of Community Engagement, Summit Metro Parks
Tallmadge Ave // 8pm-1am // Witness the
Bring It! Live Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S Main St // 9:30pm From the hit television series on the Lifetime network, the Dancing Dolls and their legendary coach D are bringing their high energy and jam packed dance routines to the livestage! Akroncivic.com
triumphant return of Take Off Charlie with special guests performing! : theempireconcertclubandbar
The iconic Indian Signal Tree stands near the start of the 2.4-mile Chuckery Trail in Cascade Valley Metro Park in Akron. Some people believe a strange accident shaped the (possibly) 300-yearold bur oak’s branches. Others think American Indians shaped the tree as a sapling to achieve its unique, three-tongued structure. During the time when American Indians occupied what is now
Saturday, July 29 Sunday, July 30
Northeast Ohio, special landmarks were used to pinpoint significant locations.
Akron Arts Expo Hardesty Park, 1615 W Market St // 10am-6pm // Spend a day in the park to appreciate Akron’s arts, food and fun for the
(it should be “Path”) from the Cuyahoga River, which was a connecting link between the Great Lakes and the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. The Erie, Seneca, Shawnee, Ottawa, Delaware and Mingo tribes traveled to the Ohio River by this route.
entire family! akronartsexpo.org (See Devil’s Dozen)
The problem is, in the late 1700s, the Portage Path was verified by surveyors to be in a
Tuesday, August 1
According to Mike Greene, manager of education and recreation for Summit Metro Parks, no one really knows how old the Indian Signal Tree is, or why its shape may have been altered by humans. “If it is truly over 300 years old, it was most likely shaped by American Indians, but for what purpose?” Greene asks. “It could mark a gathering place, maybe for ceremonies. It could show the way to another area or trail. It could mark the previous location of the Cuyahoga River,
A plaque, placed in 1986, incorrectly states that the Indian Signal Tree marked the Portage Trail
different location.
//PHOTO CREDIT: Photo courtesy of akroncivic.com
Copper Pennies LIVE at Nuevo Nuevo Modern Mexican and Tequila Bar, 54 E Mill St // 6:30-9:30pm // Check out the electric sounds of Copper Pennies at one of The 1st Annual Beards in the Barnyard Summit County Fairgrounds, 229 E Howe Rd 2- 7pm // Summit County Fairgrounds invites
Akron's favorite restaurants. akron.nuevomodmex.com
whose course has changed over time, or good hunting and fishing grounds.” Greene said there are many possibilities, but the answer — despite what is written on the 1986 plaque — will probably remain a mystery forever.
you to their first ever facial hair competition. All
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! JULY 22 • 7:05 “THE TODD” BOBBLE HIGH FIVE! FIRST 1,000 FANS
PRESENTED BY SUMMA HEALTH
ROBERT MASCHIO APPEARANCE! ROCKIN’ FORE THE KIDS FIREWORKS! PRESENTED BY SUMMA HEALTH
330•253•5151 • AKRONRUBBERDUCKS.COM 10
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JULY COMICS
The Palette
13 NCCAKRON COLLABORATES WITH DANCECLEVELAND FOR ITS FIRST EVENT 14 WE GET IN THE STUDIO WITH ANDY TARAY OF OHIOBOY ART & DESIGN AND THE SOCIAL DEPARTMENT
THE AKRON ART SCENE
fewer and fewer resources are available for non-goal directed action and everything is oriented toward test preparation or practical skill development. Our space is a place to come to and just be in the moment, in the experience of creating something that is yours, where there isn’t any right or wrong, just expression. That is to say we have an emphasis on process not product. The exploration of materials is very important before you set out to create something. You wouldn’t just start and run a marathon; you would train, get your body in form, and once you feel ready run your race. The same can be said for art. One needs to understand the limits and abilities of the materials you are working with before you can create a work of art. How does this pencil make lines? What are the limits of this clay? How does this canvas receive the paint? Once you have that knowledge, you can set out and express yourself with the confidence that comes with understanding yourself and the materials you are working with. Then, it can be all about expression and creativity, and being in the moment. Why pursue it? We have been mulling it over, off and on, since we have lived in Akron the last 7 years. We have wanted to do something that combines both of our passions and the studio is an ideal place for that. Karin is a researcher/psychologist and has wanted to go back to some more clinically oriented psychological work. Micah is
BIG IDEA
an artist, and recently found himself working in a corporate setting. While that work has been rewarding, the idea of getting back to teaching and using his talents for his own work, presents a way back to his original goal (and training) to be an art educator. When did you know your big idea was a good idea? It’s hard to say We’ve known it was an idea we wanted to pursue. The pieces seem to be falling in place. We’ve had amazing support from friends, neighbors, and our families. Right now, there isn’t anything in Akron quite like this. Here’s hoping we are right, that it is a good idea! How do you hope your big idea helps
Karin Coifman
Micah Beree
What is your big idea? Our hope is to create a space where people of any age can develop their creativity and reap the psychological benefits of artistic activity. In today’s world, there is so much emphasis
Occupation: Psychologist Hometown: New Haven, CT
Occupation: Artist Hometown: Tulsa, OK
on technology and immediate access to community into the studio to enrich both them information, we’ve lost that bit of ourselves that and us with creative action. We are hoping to
Current neighborhood: West Akron
Current neighborhood: West Akron
can just sit with an idea or a feeling and explore where it takes us, without judgement and without too much intention. Even in schools,
build on our momentum with more communityoriented work and hopefully partnerships with some of the amazing art organizations that
kids are less able to explore their creativity as
serve as the foundation of this great city.
What’s the Big Idea with Akron ArtWorks?
Photos courtesy of Akron ArtWorks
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Akron grow? We are committed to our Akron community. We moved here seven years ago and have fallen in love with this Rubber City. We have and will continue to provide activities that bring the
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(Photo courtesy of Coach House Theatre)
DANCE FEVER:
EALLY.
|| The Black Box || The Murmur Heard ‘Round Akron: The Push to Revive Coach House Theatre by Josy Jones
I
t starts as a low murmur, darting eyes flickering with disbelief. Before you realize it, the murmur has been fed with rumor, disapproval, and then a slew of sly, unprovoked commentary. The murmur has risen to a full-blown hum, and the unrest has woven its way through the streets of Akron: “Did you hear that Coach House is closing?” Correction. Coach House was closing. They made the announcement in May following the departure of Artistic Director, Nancy Cates. With Cates’ absence and the ubiquitous financial struggles of the theater’s owner, the Akron Women’s City Club (AWCC), closing seemed like the best option. The AWCC is currently experiencing substantial property tax delinquency and has experienced past difficulties balancing the financial needs of the club with the money Coach House earned for its own seasonal budget. A few times, this put Coach House in difficult position, when AWCC spent Coach House’s hard-earned funds with the intention to pay them back later. Repayment was often uncomfortably close to prohibiting show openings. Sometimes members of the Coach House team were so desperate that they used their own (continued on page 36)
A Night with NCCAkron Akron Houses the Second Center for Choreography in the Country by Sierra Allen
F
eather-like footsteps, ethereal spins and elongated limbs capture the audience,
“Under Fire” and “The Indomitable Waltz,” my favorite is the latter. Through the choreography
Choreography, NCCAkron was founded in 2015 in response to the John S. and James L. Knight
as heads follow the bodies that move effortlessly across the stage. The water based fog and transitioning lights add a different feel
of Aszure Barton, the dancers portray the idea of pain and healing, as well as emotional balance.
Foundation’s question of transformational ideas for Akron. Compared to France’s 19 National Choreographic Centers, the United States only
to each piece, as colors reflect the moods of the dances. While the dancers tell stories with their bodies, the room is at ease. All eyes are
“It’s an exploration, an approach to the soul under extreme or intense emotional circumstances,” Aszure says in a behind-the-
had one and Pamela Young, Executive Director of DANCECleveland thought Akron would be the perfect location for the second center.
on the stage as members of Malpaso Dance
scenes recollection of “The Indomitable Waltz.”
Company demand all attention, though not much demanding is necessary.
Throughout this piece, the dancers’ delicate, yet strong movements embody the representation
“There’s something here. Research and development and innovation is in the city’s DNA,” Christy says.
I once heard that the average attention span is eight seconds, a statement I truly believe. I personally tend to measure the success of an event or item of entertainment based on how attentive I am and this performance lured me in and I wasn’t released until the last bow.
of wilting flowers with hunched shoulders and loose, yet controlled arms. Their intense eye contact in this partner-based dance feels intimate in a dark, twisted way, as violins echo in the background. It reminds me of how Tim Burton’s spin on dance would be: bleak, yet beautiful.
As a Texas native and former L.A., D.C., New York City and San Francisco resident, she expresses her fondness of Akron, not only because of her new job position, but the feel of the city as a whole.
As a fairly new establishment, founded in 2012, Malpaso Dance Company has already become one of the most sought after Cuban contemporary dance companies. Based in Havana, its 11 members relay the messages and
Christy Bolingbroke, Executive and Artistic Director at NCCAkron, decided to join DANCECleveland’s presentation of Malpaso Dance Company in the Ohio Theatre of Cleveland Playhouse Square in hopes of gaining
“It feels like a renaissance,” Christy says. “So how do we let that come to the surface and percolate more, not only in dance but in a number of art forms and disciplines that can come through here?”
feelings that dance is supposed to, illustrating a subjective idea, but common understanding as well.
the attention of dance lovers and those who are interested in dance. It was NCCAkron’s As a former competition kid and freelance first event. dancer, Christy holds a dance degree from UCLA and a master’s in performance curation As the country’s second National Center for (continued on page 36)
Out of the three pieces performed, “Ocaso,”
Jacob Lawrence, from The Legend of John Brown, 1978, screenprints on paper, 20 x 14 in. (each) Collection of the Akron Art Museum, Gift of David and Frances Cooper 1979.35 a-v
AKRON ART MUSEUM • Through September 10, 2017
JOHN BROWN TOUR • Thursday, July 27 • 5 pm at Akron Art Museum • 6 pm at John Brown House
Join Assistant Curator Liz Carney for a tour of The Legend of John Brown, a series of 22 screenprints by the renowned African American artist Jacob Lawrence on view in the exhibition Serial Intent. Then visit the John Brown House during the Summit County Historical Society’s Open House and Community Forum, and see the small cottage Brown once called home. The John Brown House is located at 550 Copley Rd, Akron, OH 44320. This program is free, but registration is recommended: AkronArtMuseum.org/eventregistration. Serial Intent is organized by the Akron Art Museum and supported by the Ohio Arts Council.
One
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the palette Pictured left: Andy at work printing a shirt; The Social Department team, from left to right: Andy Taray, Christy Taray, Zach Nelson and Zach Hudson
The joke sparked something for Andy: His friends didn’t know anything about Akron, Ohio and he didn’t know anything about the small towns they came from. He worked with an artist from a small town in Georgia, and another from a small town in Connecticut, each also proud of their
company out of his house, working his day job as a graphic designer under Ohio Boy Art & Design, then going out to the spare garage, which they had converted into a print studio. “I had to have really weird hours,” he says. “I would do my design studio work, working directly with clients and open during the hours a normal studio would be open. Then eat dinner with the kids, then put the kids to bed. And then go back to work, working on The Social Department from about 9 to midnight, which was our schedule for years.”
hometowns. “It kind of hit me, everybody in New York is
In 2015, even though they were still involved in craft shows, it was time to look for a local
going through the same thing, because we’re all from these different locations,” Andy says.
storefront. Andy partnered with HiHO Brewing Company on Front Street in Cuyahoga Falls. Like Andy, the brewery is run by Ohio natives
In 2006, he and a friend started a t-shirt company that focused on what made each of
who moved away (to Denver), then came back to their home state with a new business. Andy knew he wanted to handle their corporate
those hometowns special. “It’s about being proud of where you’re from, no matter where that is,” Andy says. The goal was to do a classic shirt for each of the 50 states. But the designs couldn’t just be straightforward travel brochures for every state
design through Ohio Boy, and he wondered if they might have some space he could use to set up his retail shop for The Social Department. With the new storefront came a focus on new, intensely local shirts rather than digging up little details on each new city before a craft fair.
He tries for a classic, retro vibe that he hopes or city. He wanted to make shirts that told the story of those cities and towns, and at the same mimics the feel of a favorite old, comfortable shirt, even when it’s brand new. time make designs he loved.
InsideANDY the Artist's Studio TARAY Wearing his home on his sleeve, Taray shows his love for Northeast Ohio through Ohio Boy and The Social Department words by Kurt Kleinham; photos by M. Sophie Franchi
“What if you learned about another place?” Andy says. He wanted to give people “not just a standard travel t-shirt, but something very specific that you wouldn’t get unless you grew up there, or became a fan of the place.”
“It’s really led us to more local work,” he says. “As much as I like researching another place and designing for it, it’s way more satisfying when it’s in your backyard. It’s like doing a craft show five days a week. You’re here having these great conversations with people who are
For example, one of his early designs was Cleveland-based, a very simple Helvetica-
all going through the same stuff.”
stacked type that read: We’re underway at the corner of Carnegie and Ontario.
Eventually, Andy would like to be able to bring a corner of the craft show world to his shop by featuring products made by his friends and
The fledgling company, then called Campfire, started traveling a craft show circuit,
colleagues. But until then, he’s dedicated to making designs and shirts that tell the stories of
researching each city as they traveled and
the cities and people he loves.
tailoring their shirts to fit the crowds in Chicago, L.A., Austin, San Francisco or Minneapolis.
“A t-shirt is a walking memory,” he says. “You put it on and think of where you got it, and where you wore it, and where it’s from.”
A
“At the time, we didn’t have kids, and it was ndy Taray didn’t plan to start a
was that my mom would say, ‘Well, you know
company designing t-shirts celebrating Northeast Ohio when he grew up. But growing up as an Akron native, he had the tools right in front of him.
your dad’s going to buy a shirt. You might as well get one too.’”
As a student interested in art, Taray skipped
But before he became known for state-based t-shirts, he had to leave Ohio. After graduating from Kent with a degree in graphic design, he
fun to travel, and we just had a lot of fun,” he says. “It was like, ‘Oh, they’re doing a show here? All right, let’s go.’” As time passed, Andy and his partners at Campfire found themselves moving to different places across the country and building families
working on cartoons and his own characters. Instead, he tried out new logo designs for this favorite bands. And as the youngest of four, he picked up pointers about clothing design as his
lit out for New York and got started working with a small studio filled with people from places all around the globe.
sister studied fashion merchandising.
But he couldn’t stop talking about his home changed the name of the state, a fact that wasn’t unnoticed by his friends company in 2010 to The and colleagues. Social Department.
But one of the biggest pushes toward his company, The Social Department, came from a lifelong love of t-shirts, shared with his father. “My dad and I would always collect t-shirts. Everywhere we went, it was like, yeah, we’ll
14
Pictured right: Inside The
talk about Ohio so much and how you love it. What is it about Ohio? Is it really that great of a place?’” he says.
Social Department
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
t-shirts that his boyfriend printed for him when they first started dating.
rather than printing t-shirts over a long weekend. Eventually, Andy (having returned to Akron) was still making shirts. He
“Everybody was always joking, ‘You always
get the shirt for that,” Andy says. “The old joke
// Kurt Kleinham is a freelance writer who still has the
For several years, Andy and his family ran the
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2017 ISLAND PARTY
RIDE METRO, PARTA & SARTA BUSES FOR FREE EVERY FRIDAY IN JULY & AUGUST*
massillon museum
Friday July 14
•
Food 6pm Band 7–11pm Reggae on the Museum Lawn
An evening under the stars in downtown Massillon
Carlos Jones and the P.L.U.S. Band NEORIDE.COM
Band # s u m mJackson e r iHigh n tSchool h eSteel c iDrum ties
*SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY
• •• • •
EVERYONE’S WELCOME! BRING A CHAIR OR BLANKET
THE ARTS IN SCHOOLS
ALL AGES! CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES
Tuesday Musical Partners with the John F. Kennedy Center
SUMMER FUN @
by Kayla Sturm
provide integral teaching programs through workshops in Wayne and Ashland counties.
the Kennedy Center team, which is comprised of the Educational Service Center (ESC), the college of Wooster, Wayne Center for the Arts, Tri-County and now Tuesday Musical.
The partnership will provide teaching strategies to classrooms, but Tuesday Musical will have
The ESC and the creative learning tools they offer will help students understand subjects like math and science. This new partnership with the Kennedy Center will hopefully lead
the opportunity to visit other orchestras and
to helping students understand subjects in an
play with them. Tuesday Musical started out as an all-female orchestra of thirteen women who wanted to share their love of music. Since 1887, the organization has grown and is excited for their partnership
unique way.
with the Kennedy Center. "The Kennedy Center has expertly trained teaching artists that are trained to deliver this content to classroom teachers,” says
"So for example: using music to teach math, or drama to teach social studies. We know all those connections are so vital as far as education strategies and reaching multiple learning styles,” says Hartzler. “We hope that social studies, language arts and science teachers will use the arts as integral teaching tools at these
Jarrod Hartzler, Executive and Artistic Director at professional development workshops.” Tuesday Musical. The partnership will also bring musicians into The Kennedy Center will prepare teachers with the schools. Not only will the community the tools they need to help their students learn subjects through art.
benefit from new subject learning techniques, but Tuesday Musical will visit schools to work with their orchestra or band students.
“The partners and education program is one of the Kennedy’s national programs. It is an arts in school partnership and the idea is it pairs a
“Next February, we’ll spend two days at Wooster high school and Ashland high school
school district with an arts organization,” says Hartzler.
working with all of their band and orchestra students,” says Hartzler.
Tuesday Musical is one of three partners within
// Photo Courtesy of Jarrod Hartzler
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
Food, Beverages & T-Shirts for Sale Pulled Pork & Jerk Chicken Sandwiches Grilled Hot Dogs Fruit Frozen Treats Island Drinks Beer Wine Soft Drinks
ENCOURAGING Tuesday Musical is celebrating their upcoming 130th anniversary, but that’s not all they’re celebrating. They recently joined a partnership with the John F. Kennedy Center, which will
FREE ADMISSION
2017 ISLAND PARTY massillon museum
Friday July 14
•
Food 6pm Band 7–11pm
Saturday, July 29 9:00 am – 4:00 pm @ Massillon Museum in Downtown Massillon
Reggae on the Museum Lawn
Verbal Appraisals • Antiques Repurposed Vintage Wares
Carlos Jones and the P.L.U.S. Band
2:00 pm—Expert Panel Discussion “Should It Stay or Should It Go?”
An evening under the stars in downtown Massillon
Jackson High School Steel Drum Band
Free admission • $5 per Appraisal Food for Purchase Free Family Activities
FREE ADMISSION
LIVE MUSIC
Pulled Pork & Jerk Chicken Sandwiches Grilled Hot Dogs Fruit Frozen Treats Island Drinks Beer Wine Soft Drinks
Betsy Harrison with Rochester Square Bruce Sampsel Steve Farley Bryan Stahl & Mandy Pond
EVERYONE’S WELCOME!
massillonmuseum.org
Food, Beverages & T-Shirts for Sale
• •• • •
BRING A CHAIR OR BLANKET
ALL AGES! CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES
330.833.4061
SUPPORTS MASSMU’S CAPITAL CAMPAIGN
Culture Club
18 WHERE DID ALL THE BUMBLEBEES GO? 20 HE’S NEW AND SHE’S NATIVE 22 SO MUCH SOFTBALL!
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
{
Outdoor Gems: EXPLORING
Northeast Ohio Blue Hen and Buttermilk Falls by Anthony Boarman
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| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
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culture club
E WELL
WAY
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I
grew up in Northeast Ohio and for about 30 years, I did not take advantage of or
photographs come from that perspective.
appreciate all that we have around us. Then, a few years ago, my girlfriend (now wife) Emily and I started to frequent the local parks. We started out walking the Summit
Your adventure isn’t over yet. A small brown sign posted just beyond the fence and bench above the falls reads “Trail Ends Here,” leading some to believe that there is nothing else to
MetroPark trails, and then we saw what Cuyahoga Valley National Park was all about. These occasional walks led to daily or weekly
see. One of the best destinations in the CVNP is less than a mile away, but it is not advertised. If you love getting your feet wet, just follow
hikes, and eventually we started finding offtrail destinations and I gained an interest in
the creek at the bottom of Blue Hen. If you prefer keeping your shoes dry, there is a worn,
photography.
unmarked foot trail just beyond the “Trail Ends Here” sign. Follow the creek or foot trail for
One hike that will always be special to me is from Blue Hen Falls to the lesser known Buttermilk Falls. Blue Hen Falls, which is a short
about 3/4 of a mile and you will find yourself at the top of Buttermilk Falls, a 30-foot cascading waterfall made of Bedford Shale that drops
.5 mile walk from your car, is one of the CVNP’s most popular destinations. This waterfall is unique for its Berea Sandstone overhang that creates a cave-like area behind the waterfall. Water from Spring Creek crashes down 15 feet onto Bedford Shale, bringing together two of Northeast Ohio’s most famous rock formations. You can enjoy the waterfall from above at the
down into a small gorge area. This destination has become more popular over the years, but there is still a good chance that you will be the only person there to enjoy it, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of our local parks.
wooden fence or sitting on the park bench, but many choose to enjoy Blue Hen’s beauty with their feet touching the Bedford Shale in the creek below. Some of the greatest views and
// Anthony Boarman is a social studies teacher and coach at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. He lives in West Akron with his wife Emily and his dog Ava. He is a lover of all things Akron and enjoys being around dogs more than humans.
Pictured (this page - clockwise from top left): Spring Creek hits the Berea Sandstone before dropping the 15 feet down to the Bedford Shale at the bottom of Blue Hen Falls; A Spring Creek level view of Blue Hen Falls; The iconic view of Blue Hen Falls from the trail above; Lush green trees and beautiful root systems blanket the foreground and backdrop of Blue Hen falls. Pictured opposite page: Buttermilk Falls cascades down 30 feet to a beautiful gorge area filled with rocks. (Photos courtesy of Anthony Boarman)
Spark your curiosity! Be one of the first to explore our new exhibit and discover 27 of the most unusual animals and plants you’ll ever see. Hurry on over to your Akron Zoo for a unique experience and to visit all 700 of our animals.
akronzoo.org AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7 /
THE Devil Strip |
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culture club
THE QUEST FOR THE
Rusty Patched Bumblebee
this buzz pollination” says Dr. Mitchell. Pictured left: Dr. Mitchell identifies a bumblebee temporarily put to sleep with cold compressed air.
before release. (PHOTO: Jules Christensen)
take Dr. Mitchell a long time, too long, to catalogue bumblebees across even just around Summit county.
So bumblebees are an incredibly important element of our ecosystem. But what is causing the decline of common species like the rusty
That is why his effort relies heavily on contributions made by members of the general public. By depending on citizen science, the
patched?
collection of data and collaboration between the general public and professional scientists, Dr. Mitchell is able expand the scope of his survey.
(PHOTO: Claude Christensen/The Devil Strip). Pictured below: Bumblebee caught for identification
There is no single answer. It could have suffered from a disease of foreign origin. Harmful systemic insecticides absorbed by plants the bumblebee visits could have killed or handicapped the bee. Rising temperatures could have caused the bumblebee to miss a plant’s window of fertility. Perhaps the devastating fragmentation and destruction of plains and grasslands habitats reached a point of no-return Dr. Mitchell put it like this: “If I’m sick, everything’ll be okay. If I lose my job, everything’ll (probably)
The Mysterious Disappearance of a Common Ohio Pollinator by Claude Christensen
O
patched bumblebee was everywhere.
With a black head and a rust colored patch on the back of the abdomen, the rusty patched
the rusty patched bumblebee are often more important for the health of an ecosystem because they can pollinate a diverse range of plants. Having a diverse portfolio of pollinators
once thrived in Midwestern prairies, feeding off
ensures an equally diverse range of plants gets
of an abundant supply of protein-rich pollen and carb-laden nectar. Then it abruptly disappeared.
pollinated.
colleagues, like Ohio State University professor Dr. Karen Goodell, intend to solve as they
To conduct a survey, Dr. Mitchell and his team visit likely bee habitat sites and record the number of bumblebees and the plants that the bees seem to be visiting. Armed with long-handled nets and tubes used to contain specimens while they are identified, Mitchell and his team spend hours in the field, even in the humid 90 weather of mid-June.
honey bee is not able to extract pollen from the
Paige Reeher (PHOTO: Claude Christensen/The Devil
flower because of the plant’s unique anthers, the part of the plant’s reproductive apparatus that contains pollen. A tomato plant anther, according to Dr. Mitchell, resembles “a bunch
Strip) Pictured below: Photo of the Rusty Patched
Although domesticated honey bees get a lot
straw-like anthers. “No other bees are either beefy enough or smart enough to figure out
team can identify the photographed bee for whomever takes the photo. What professionals like Dr. Mitchell get out of it is valuable information about where different bumblebees species are.
figure out just what happened to the poor rusty patched.
the disappearance of the rusty patched. Other bumblebees are encountering difficulties, according to Mitchell, but none like the rusty patched.
But bumblebees have the tomato plant figured
can snap a photo of a bumblebee and tag its location. This data is then used by the Ohio Bee Atlas, with which Dr. Mitchell and his team participate. Experts like Dr. Mitchell and his
community is quite sure why exactly the rusty patched disappeared. It is a mystery he and
others in the Ohio science community to notice
once common bumblebee could disappear so out. By vibrating their wings without flying, suddenly, what does that portend for the rest of bumblebees can “buzz pollinate” tomato plant the ecosystem and all other pollinators? flowers, causing the pollen to shoot out of the
The app iNaturalist is free to download from both Android and Apple app stores. Anyone
the data,” states Dr. Mitchell. Without the contributions of people who are not necessarily scientists, like the readers of The Devil Strip, Following this vein of comparison, the rusty patched bumblebee is like a recently-fired victim the superhuman task of recording bee species across Ohio would be impossible. of lead poisoning whose house also happened to catch fire. The bumblebee has, perhaps, too So if you have the time today, take out your many obstacles to overcome. phone. Download iNaturalist. Go find a bumblebee and help Dr. Mitchell and his team Still, neither Dr. Mitchell nor the scientific
Take, for instance, the tomato plant. “Tomatoes Pictured right: Dr. Mitchell and team preparing are really weird,” says Dr. Mitchell. They require to record the density and type of flowers at a site. pollination in order to reproduce, but the typical From left, Jules Christensen, Dr. Randy Mitchell,
Still, Mitchell is worried; he compares the rusty patched to “a canary in a coal mine.” If a
a smartphone and taking a photo.
This is really important. “We don’t have
It took a few years for Dr. Randy Mitchell, University of Akron professor of biology, and
of rocks stuck in a straw.”
Contributing to Dr. Mitchell’s project is easy. It is as simple as downloading the app iNaturalist on
be okay. But if I’m sick and I lose my job, that would be hard to recover from.”
survey bumblebee populations here in Ohio. ne of the five most common of attention for their ability to produce large bumblebees twenty years ago, the rusty amounts of honey, native wild species like
Hartsville, Dr. Mitchell and his team caught, examined, and released only three bumblebees in four hours. Even with his team, most of whom are college biology students, it would
For more information about the rusty patched bumblebee and the effort to survey Ohio bumblebee populations or to nominate a site for a bee survey, visit: u.osu.edu/beelab/ohiobee-atlas/ // While working on a story, Claude Christensen was able to hold an unconscious bumblebee in the palm of his hand. It was awesome.
Bumblebee, Bombus affinis (PHOTO: USGS Bee Lab)
Still, surveys can sometimes be hit or miss. On a recent excursion in Stark county near
Bumble Blitz Citizen Science Bee Survey (FREE) Saturday, July 22, 2017 • 11am to 1pm Letha House Park East • 5745 Richman Road, Spencer, OH 44275 For more information visit: medinacountyparks.com/index.php/en/programs/special-events
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| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM
culture club
On the Street
Faces of the homeless, previously homeless and those still struggling by Lisa Kane
Meet Hunter. He was homeless before he was even born. His mom, Ellen, found out she was pregnant while she was living in a tent. Half of her pregnancy she lived outside in that tent. Since than she has worked so hard to give him a good life and a home.
Meet Hunter and Ellen. Age: Ellen - 23, Hunter - 8 months Hometown: Madisonville, Kentucky
that environment. It’s hard to find a place you can afford if you are already facing hard times.
What could people find you doing during the day? Another negative about being
them a chance, they are back on the streets and probably will go back to using drugs.
What brought you to Akron? I came to Akron with some friends, the wrong friends, for
I ended up going into the Family Promise Program. It’s a really good program. It’s a 30-
homeless is just being bored. You don’t even have enough money for basic needs so you can’t do things. You don’t have a car. We all
How do you feel people who have never faced homelessness view the homeless?
what was supposed to be a two-week vacation. I chose the wrong people to come with. They ended up stealing all my money and leaving me
day program. They gave me an extension and let me stay for 90 days while I was waiting for H.M. Life. H.M. Life helps with supportive,
would get up as early as possible to find some place to go with heat, especially in the winter. Then, you don’t want to go back to the tent
They look down on us. They think every homeless person is there due to drugs or alcohol. They don’t understand that a lot of
stranded here with nothing and not knowing
transitional housing for single parents.
too early. It’s depressing, and boring, and cold.
times that’s not true. That’s not why I was there.
We always tried to stay somewhere as late as we could.
A lot of people out there lost their jobs when the economy took a dip. They got stuck in a bad situation, like I did. It makes me mad when
Where would you go? The library. You can use the internet there. Fast food restaurants. When it was warm I would just go on walks or go to the park and sit
people look down on the homeless. If you don’t know someone’s story don’t judge them. I actually yelled at someone at the bus stop once. They saw someone panhandling and said,
What are some of the daily struggles being homeless? Food, shelter, staying dry, staying warm. It’s all about layering. You need to have lots of layers on to stay warm.
“the city needs to clean up all these homeless people.” I said, “I was homeless for 2 and a half years! You don’t understand! No one wants to be out there. Bad stuff happens to people sometimes!.”
What 3 words would you use to describe being homeless? Hard. Undesirable. Fixable.
Did most people show you kindness or treat you rudely? Both. The worst are the
What do you think is the leading causes of homelessness? Not enough people willing to
people who only act kind when other people are watching. They act so caring when they are with their church group or whatever. I’ve
anyone. Occupation/Previous Occupation/Source of income? In Kentucky, I worked in a factory. I have panhandled here. I’m not too proud to do it. Sometimes it is the only thing people can do to make money they desperately need. Why don’t you have a “job”? My hands kept going numb and I didn’t have a lot of feeling in them. I went to the doctor and found out I have carpal tunnel. Currently I am not working because I had to have surgery on my hand, and I can’t work. Before the surgery, I was out looking for jobs and going on interviews. How long were you homeless? It was going on two and a half years. Hunter was born in
What lead you to homelessness? Being stranded alone here in Akron by the people I came with. Do you have family? None in Ohio. Where did you sleep last night? In my new apartment! When I was homeless I slept in a tent in the woods over by Luigi’s. How many hours of sleep do you get a night? Usually around six hours. Did you usually have 3 meals a day? No! Most of the time I was lucky to get one meal a day.
September and I didn’t move into a place till the beginning of August. I stayed at the Haven for a little while. I also stayed at Access for a month. Hunter’s dad and I moved into an apartment before he was born. They didn’t take care of
Did you feel safe? Yah, I did for the most part. There were other people who lived in the woods there too.
take a chance on someone. Veterans, people who may have something bad in their past, people trying to get clean. If they have no one to believe in them or give them a chance they What is your biggest fear? When I was in the won’t get anywhere. Like if someone does go
encountered some of the same people when they weren’t with the group and they acted like they couldn’t even stand to be in the same space as me.
the place and it was just disgusting. They had bed bugs and I just couldn’t keep my baby in
tent it was someone taking all my belongings from the camp. Now, it is losing my son.
There are other groups that were really nice (continued on page 36)
to rehab to try to get clean. When they get out if they have no one to believe in them or give
The future of our community hinges on improving graduation rates. And the time to make it happen is now. Become a mentor through our iC.A.R.E. program. You. One child. One hour per week. That’s it. Just being there – listening, encouraging, sharing – can make all the difference.
To get started, visit uwsummit.org/mentor United Way Bold Goals by 2025 90% of APS high-schoolers graduating in 4 years, with 60% college/career ready
Goal 2
(Currently at 75% and 21% respectively)
uwsummit.org/boldgoals
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7 /
THE Devil Strip |
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culture club
Steve Brightman Occupation: Hometown:
Maureen Farris
Master Data Management
Occupation:
Intervention Specialist
Chardon, Ohio
Hometown:
Akron, Ohio
Neighborhood: Wallhaven
Neighborhood: West Akron and we were looking for places to live, Akron
to build my life as an adult. Slowly but surely, friends came back to Akron after moving away and validated what I had learned, and what we all know, about this fair city.
What do you wish was more on Akronites'
just made the most sense. Sure, it was a nice halfway point between her family and mine, but we couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. It’s become a part of our bloodstream.
radar? Compass Coffee. Even though we live in West Akron, we head to Middlebury neighborhood when we have a jones for
Where in Akron do you like to escape? Assuming you
coffee/tea. The selection is awesome and the atmosphere is everything you want from a coffee joint.
mean available to the public, so our backyard is not as viable an answer as I had hoped it would be. During
What is your favorite local cultural asset? The people, the people, the people. There is such an incredible wealth of talented artists,
the summer, it’s definitely Canal Park. During the other seasons, it’s Summit ArtSpace
singers, writers, social activists, business owners full of love for this city.
and/or the Akron Art Museum.
What do you wish was more on Akronites' radar? Akron is a small city with big Where in Akron do you like to escape? city vibes. It has all the aspects of a Blu Jazz and Nuevo patio for date night. Akron bigger city that you could want metro parks for serenity. Yoga Bliss to sweat
New / Native
with the charm and warmth of a smaller town. You may have to dig a little deeper but Akron has so much to offer anyone that gives her a chance.
and regroup. Good Life for piercings ;). West Point market for special grocery finds. Highland Square or Maiden Lane to feel community and connectedness. Why should everyone try your favorite local restaurant? I have so many favorite
Why should everyone try your favorite local restaurant? Everyone should try Nepali
transplant story is probably a familiar one. My relationship with Akron developed slowly. I came here a couple times when friends met
Kitchen because it gives you everything you want from a restaurant: great food that you can’t replicate at home and large portions
When did you fall for Akron? I stayed in Akron for college but I lived in the dorms at the
you're going to find great food but most of all, the signature Midwest hospitality that Akron is known for. People are kind everywhere you go.
at bars or had New Year’s Eve parties at their house(s) or played baseball in the summer with the Highland Square Baseball League. Slowly, but surely, I found myself spending more time here than not. When my wife and I got married
priced right.
University. I remember feeling like I got a whole new opportunity to experience my city from a completely different perspective. I always knew Akron as a safe place to call home but really fell in love with it when I got to know it as a place
How do you hope Akron will be different in five years? I hope to see independent and local businesses continue to grow and thrive. (continued on page 36)
// Photo courtesy of Dragons on the Lake
When did you fall for Akron? I think my
What is your favorite local cultural asset? People are kind. I am proud to live in a place that makes its people and its visitors feel welcomed.
T
How do you hope Akron will be different in five years? Well, I wouldn’t mind fewer potholes.
Beating the Dragon of Breast Cancer
How the Dragon Dream Team is Challenging Breast Cancer one Boat at a Time by Taylor Dawson
he first time 76-year-old cancer survivor
“Our message to them is wrap yourself in this cashmina. It’s like a hug from your sister survivors,” says Susan. “Realize that we’ve been in the same boat that you are in and now we’ve found a way to move forward. Realize that you can get through this and that life can be better as a survivor.”
Susan Balmert went paddle boating, a feeling of power overtook her. As one of the first members of the Dragon Dream Team, Ohio’s first ever breast cancer surviving boat team, Balmert initially felt skeptical of joining, but quickly changed her mind after her first time on the boat. “There was something about the feeling of being with others who understood where I have been and there was a sense of power in taking on this dragon,” says Susan. Founded 10 years ago, the Dragon Dream Team allows surviving cancer patients the chance to take back their
On Saturday, July 8, Portage Lakes State Park will be hosting
bodies and lives. 20 years ago most believed that breast cancer survivors shouldn’t participate in any form of upper body sports.
created the team 10 years ago. At the festival, visitors will have the chance to see over 35 paddlers compete to the finish line.
But this notion is now being challenged thanks to doctors like Don McKenzie and Douglas Wagner. In an effort to prove that cancer survivors have the strength to perform upper body sports,
The festival is part of a fundraiser for the team’s community outreach program, Boatloads of Hope. The organization works with 14 hospitals and cancer centers throughout Northeast
20 years ago, McKenzie chose the 2,000-year-old Chinese padding sport Dragon Boat Racing.
Ohio to bring hope in the form of care packages to those who fear for their lives.
20
restaurants. Bricco, Nuevo, Saffron Patch, Nepali Kitchen, Aladdins, Mustard Seed, Cilantro...the list goes on and on (we need to bring back the vegan restaurant!). Regardless of where you go,
All of the boaters at Dragon Boat Festival are eager to enter their dragon and race to show cancer who’s boss. “Like a demon, cancer had us one time, but now we’re in charge of this dragon,” says Susan. “We’re directing where it goes and we’re back in control of our lives and our bodies. We’re moving forward.”
the fifth annual Dragon Boat Festival thanks to Wagner, who
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
dragonsonthelake.com The Dragons on the Lake Dragon Boat Festival Portage Lakes State Park
Saturday July 8, 2017
WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM
day ,
culture club
The Trouble with Old People
MEDICAL STUDENT/INTERN DISCOUNTS UNIVERSITY OF AKRON STUDENT DISCOUNTS
Who's Ahead? by Steve Van Auken
Please Note: This column is satirical. Please read Mr. Van Auken’s writings as a sort of tongue-in-cheek Guide for Millennials to the Greatest Generation.
I used to imagine that when I got older I
it not have been possible for us to receive our
would have some wisdom. I would think deep thoughts about man's inhumanity to man. I would not think about why my lawn has more
ration of male privilege in some other area? Say, in choosing movies? Or opting out of that new horror, the wedding shower that both women
dandelions than anybody else's on my block. These things wouldn't matter to me anymore. I would be free of competitive feelings. My thoughts would soar.
and men are expected to attend? But no. Here lies your privilege. Take it or leave it. Irony can be brutal.
Then I actually got older. It turns out that competitiveness doesn't go away. It just takes on weird forms.
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Senior competitiveness exists in other places where you might not expect it. Like bird watching. We birders are supposed to care
Take ballroom dancing. It is on every short list you will ever see, of things that older folks
deeply about deep things, like preserving the environment, and introducing children to the joys of nature. And we do. When we're not too busy trying to impress each other.
should do to promote cognitive flexibility. And they are right. When I'm trying to learn some new step, I can feel my brain reacting in pain. It doesn't seem to believe that enhancing its potential is a good thing. What it really wants is to sit on the porch, taking on another mystery novel and yet more coffee. The parts of my brain that handle these things are already highly developed. They can do their work with
Birders tend to be older, but we still have the urge to advertise our accomplishments. Some are quick to tell you how many species they have on their life list. (Rule of thumb: they have more than you do.) Dedicated searchers will give you the details of how they traveled to South Padre Island, Texas, and laid in the dunes for two days in order to catch a glimpse of the
half their neurons tied behind their back. Why should I demand that other, underdeveloped parts of my brain get involved?
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Collared Plover, after the recent hurricane had blown it up from its home in Guatemala. My competitive goal is more extreme. It is to
And yet here I am. Our instructor, Tomi, has
impress Marie Morgan. She is my friend and a
demonstrated a new step and now she is looking at me with an expression I've come to know well. It says, "I've shown you this move three times. You have to do it now. Assuming you
birding mentor. For years she has coordinated the Christmas Bird Count for our local affiliate of the Audubon Society. I thought I had her two years ago, when I told her I'd seen a
drove a car to get here today, you should have the cognitive ability to do it. Get on with it."
Prothonotary Warbler in the Valley. Before that, I had only ever seen one in a book.
Meanwhile, other couples are moving around the dance floor. They glide. They flow. Some of them actually coordinate their movements
"Oh yes," Marie said. "Was it just north of Station Bridge? On the west side of the trail? Low, in the bushes? Near the marsh where the
to the music. But I am not thinking about the eagles nest? I'm so glad you got to see it." beauty of it all. I am thinking about how inept I am. I can't say I'm feeling sort of like I did when I continue to live in hope that someday I will I was the next to last one chosen for baseball in fifth grade. (The actual last guy chosen had a big blue cast on his leg.) I am feeling exactly
have a really impressive sighting, maybe the beautiful but now rare Dickcissel. But I might be afraid to tell her. She probably has a pair of
like I did when I was the last one chosen for baseball in fifth grade.
them nesting in her geraniums.
So much for outgrowing competitiveness. By the way, did I mention that ballroom dancing is
If you are not an older person yourself you might imagine that the arrival of a new generation marks the natural end of senior
the very last bastion of male-centric decisionmaking in our society? Yes. The man makes every decision about which move to make.
competitiveness. You might suppose that a new grandchild would remind people that our time here is limited and that we ought to become
All the time. Whether he wants to or not. (He doesn't.) There is no shared decision making. There is no shared accountability. And yet so
models of patience and selflessness. You would be wrong.
many women love ballroom dancing. Would
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
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(continued on page 36)
Bavarian stone cottage built by the stone mason from Stan Hywet! An architectural historical dream! Mary Jo Kormushoff • 330-351-3051 • Call/Text for a showing today!
culture club
“A Sign of Hope” A.J. Andrews on what it means to her to have won the first Softball Gold Glove by Gray Giaconia
D
ating back to 1957, the Rawlings Gold Glove award is one of the highest honors for defensive players. Until now, though, the award has only been given to men. This year, A.J. Andrews of the Akron Racers was the first woman to ever receive a Rawlings Gold Glove. We spoke with her to find out what it means to her.
Baseball Now!
What does it mean to you to be the first woman ever to receive a Rawlings Gold Glove? It means a lot to me because I am a
22
Goes Softballin’
pioneer for not just softball, but for women in sports in general, and that hopefully this will be a push forward into growing the game of softball and to really getting that recognition and getting the respect that I think women
by Dave Daly
in sports deserve. I hope they continue to push forward and try to break new barriers
The Akron Racers
Basketball playoffs are finally over, football hasn’t started yet and people don’t seem aware of the fact that professional hockey still exists. It does, it is great and their season is over too. What does this mean? It’s officially baseball season! They may have started playing back in April, but now that it’s July we’re really in the thick of it. The Rubber Ducks have just about reached the halfway point of their season and are playing great baseball. They currently sit second in their division, three games behind the Altoona Curve. Meanwhile, just a few miles from Canal Park another professional ball club is taking the field at Firestone Stadium. That’s right folks, the Akron Racers are back for the 2017 National Pro Fastpitch season!
Pictured above: Baseball Now! Correspondent Fancy D covering the 3rd baseline. (Photo courtesy of Dave Daly/Baseball Now!)
what seemed like an eternity on the road (three weeks and 11 away games), the Racers returned to Firestone Stadium where they would host the Beijing Shougang Eagles. Yes, there is a Chinese team in the NPF. No, unfortunately the Racers don’t play any games in Beijing. Otherwise, I’d be on the first plane to China on The Devil Strip’s dime to get some coverage from afar for all my loyal readers!
professional athletes coming from around the world to compete in the NPF. They ball hard. So let’s just say I was a little bit excited when I saw that the Racers’ home opener was FINALLY happening. After spending
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
Do you think your award will bring more attention to professional softball, akin to baseball? I hope so. I believe that it is getting attention, and it is one of those things that
Anyways…
it’s going to need some more backing. There still needs to be a lot more voices. I think with softball being back in the Olympics, it’s
We arrived at the stadium just in time for the National Anthems.
definitely going to help, but I think that the only difference between professional softball
First the Chinese, then the U.S. Fastpitch is considered the most competitive form of softball. This isn’t your Dad’s Sunday beer league. These women are elite,
and make history the way that I did. I think winning the Gold Glove is a sign of hope, it is a sign of moving forward and I think that it is something that is truly going to be life-changing and world-changing for women in sports.
I had made a special trip to the box office during my lunch break earlier in the day to ensure we would have tickets for what I anticipated would be a sellout. Alas, there were still seats available by the time we got there, but better safe than sorry. The most affordable ticket option, $7, gets you some premium real (continued on page 37)
and professional baseball is the exposure. The fact is that more people watched the women’s college world series than they did the boys’, so I think that softball is a sport that people want to watch. I hope that this is going to be a push forward, that it continues to get more exposure, and it needs to gain momentum, (continued on page 36)
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Akropreneurs
24 FROM HOME BREW TO HOPPED BOURBON: THREE BINES 25 PFORGING A CAFFEINATED CONNECTION
AKRON BIZ
SPOTLIGHT Caffeinated Ideas in Akron by Floco Torres
WHAT I WISH I KNEW Evan Delehanty’s startup advice
It goes without saying that I think the AkronSummit County Public Libraries are an integral spoke in the giant wheel of community engagement and outreach. Countless services like the free recording studio for musicians and podcasters to affordable banner printing for your next event are provided to encourage and propel aspiring and veteran entrepreneurs.
by Gray Giaconia What do you consider your best decisions? to say when I was initially starting to say, “Okay, By working with Hattie’s, by working with Blick, we’ve spent 20,000 dollars. Is that too much? Is we haven’t had to have any HR stuff because they help us manage that, we haven’t had to it not enough?” buy any machines because we partner with Hattie’s and they take on some of those things What did you learn from being on that take cash, take loans from banks, all that Shark Tank? stuff that is super difficult for a startup. These In terms of what entrepreneurship is, the most impactful thing for me personally about “Shark are established organizations that are like “Oh you need some storage space? We’ve got Tank,” I mean obviously the most impactful plenty of storage space.” thing is being on TV and that exposure is great
Entrepreneur and recent “Shark Tank”
things are important, you know, looking back
The Microbusiness Center is open during library hours and is available for business owners, entrepreneurs and students to use
contestant Evan Delehanty is the founder and CEO of Peaceful Fruits, a company that makes organic, non-GMO fruit snacks. Ingredients are sustainably sourced from the Amazon Rainforest, and all of the production is done right here in Akron, at nonprofit organizations Hattie’s Food Hub and the Blick Center, with production teams comprised largely of people with special needs. Evan is an entrepreneur who wants to succeed, but he is also dedicated to the other people involved in the business. Of his business ideal, he says, “Peaceful Fruits is a
for business. But personally, just to find people that don’t know you, that don’t like you, that
for meetings, presentations, etc. This theme is carried over into new forums like Caffeinated
mission-based business. We are for-profit, but we think that profit should be more than just
Ideas where bringing your new product or idea (finished or not) to present in front of professionals from numerous industries. The
short-term and for just one individual. It’s about all the stakeholders in an organization.”
goal here is to help move your idea from the beginning stages into a marketable business or
What do you wish you knew when starting our time, or as much of our time past that that you earn, and tell us why you have value, and Peaceful Fruits? you can convince those people that you, not It always takes more, more, more, more than you as a person, but you as a professional, you you think it should. It’s just a lot of moving
Another one of the helpful services residing in the main location downtown is the Microbusiness Center. On July 11, in cooperation with the Braintree Business Development Center, entrepreneurs, business owners and more will be able to test out ideas in front of assorted industry professionals at Caffeinated Ideas.
product. Group interaction and collaboration have shown to work best in growing community businesses organically. If all that isn’t enough to convince you then just know that there will be coffee as well. Caffeinated
Working with Hattie’s (Food Hub) has been one of the best by far moves and really working don’t have any reason to like you, except for okay, we’re going to give you fifteen minutes of with folks in this industry in general, that being people with disabilities. Pictured above: Evan Delehanty in the production facility at Hattie’s Food Hub. (Photo: Gray Giaconia)
On those tough, existential dread days where you’re like “Are we on track? Is this the right life decision for me as an individual?” Then you walk into Hattie’s, you walk into Blick, and you’re like, “Yep. This is the right thing to be
as a business leader, you as a thought leader, you have value. That’s just such a source of validation, and it doesn’t have to be on reality
doing, and I’m going to do it as hard as I can and for as long as I can to support these folks.”
Ideas will take place from 10-11:30am on July
been twice as expensive as I thought it would. I think in a way I knew that, but no matter what I guess, my guess is going to be wrong, so why the heck bother to guess? But I think those
TV, like that’s BS right, that’s total junk, but if it’s a professor or a local business owner, just
// Gray is trying to do his best but is afraid the
11 in The Microbusiness Center located in the main library in downtown Akron.
We asked three local business owners to share with us the most valuable thing they’ve learned from working
publisher is plotting his demise.
somebody that you can network your way towards.
arise. We respect our employees and expect them to respect us.” (Photo courtesy of Ilias and Linda Tsakalis).
the Marines we also say ‘what do I know, who needs to know it, who have I told?’ Again, a maxim I preach to my employees and also live by.” (Photo courtesy of
with and managing employees. Here’s what they had to say:
by Gray Giaconia
Tip Sheet
pieces. So I wish initially that I had spent a little bit more time planning out the timeline and the budget. Everything has taken twice as long and
Michael Bruno)
Michael Bruno Ilias and Linda Tsakalis Owners // North Hill Donuts “Owning and managing your own business can be rewarding but also very stressful. We have learned to control our emotions in the many situations that may
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
Owner // Blue Door Café & Bakery “I was a Marine infantry officer for 20 years in my previous life. Two things I really stress with my employees: 1) In the Marines, we say that the most important troop leading step is supervise. I have found that to be indispensable advice when dealing with my employees. 2) In
Patrick Jaworski Owner // Chill Ice Cream Co. “I have learned to trust the employees and that building a sense of community brings new ideas to our organization.” (Photo courtesy of Patrick Jaworski).
JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7 /
THE Devil Strip |
23
akropreneurs their experiences as small businesses owners to good use. In Joe’s case, he’s been distributing his own wine for years, which has helped him navigate the many different laws each state has for alcohol sales. That’s one reason you can find Three Bines on shelves in 10 states already. (Fun fact: Ohio was not the first state where it was available, but rather the seventh.) The main reason, though, is that it’s good. That’s because they’re dogged about the quality. Their thrice-hopped process is unique in this burgeoning category, as they use Cascade, Amarillo and Simcoe hops for a flavor that IPA-lovin’ hopheads will enjoy as much as bourbon drinkers. (Truth: With a lil’ sugar, the Simcoe tea they use in the first step is a lively, refreshing and unique non-alcoholic drink itself.) They were starting their fourth batch when we met them. From that, they’ll produce about 1,500
HOW THESE HOME BREWERS LAUNCHED THEIR OWN NICHE BOURBON HERE IN AKRON
bottles, which isn’t bad for a company that’s not yet one-year-old.
by Chris Horne
when they needed help. That’s part of Three Bines Hopped Bourbon’s entrepreneurial
BONUS: When the holidays arrive, they’ve already got a special treat lined up: The 12
Wouldn’t a microbrewery have made more sense for four seasoned home brewers? What would make them even think of starting an Akron-based whiskey? Their love of craft brew, of course.
layer cake. John owns Akron’s home brew headquarters, Grape and Granary, as well as Renaissance Artisan Distillers, which makes gin, grappa and bourbon in North Hill. Without his help, Three Bines would likely have been founded in Columbus.
Spices of Christmas edition. If regular Three Bines is their take on an IPA then think of 12 Spices as their answer to that Northeast Ohio favorite, the Christmas Ale.
At least, that’s part of it, which is why brothers Joe and Jerry Zaucha with friend Jim Jackson and cousin Patrick Testa turned to John Pastor
While this side hustle has become a real job for all the guys, both Joe and Jim are putting
So what about their name? There’s four of them but only three bines? And what is a bine anyway? Well, you’ll have to watch to find out.
Podcast Pullquote: episode 6 The Ballad of Angel Grace and Joe Scheibe, aka – Gypsy Grace & The Vintage Goat Akro-Preneurs is a series hosted by Roger Riddle that features the stories behind creative locals whose talents led them into business where they’ve been shaping the city and our culture with their entrepreneurial mindset. Listen to Episode 6 of Akropreneurs to hear Angel Grace and Joe Scheibe of Gypsy Grace & the Vintage Goat.
technology. And I really didn’t have a home. I didn’t have a car. And I didn’t have a job, so I found different places to help
connect with them and you share pinterest boards. That’s the most intimate thing you can do, share pinterest boards, right?”
me.” – Angel
– Angel
“I always liked to build things and do art and just kind of make things my own.” – Joe
“It’s very weird. It’s a very narrow building. It’s very old. It has a lot of character and it had a storefront. It was at the right time. It was at the right place.” – Joe
“I came to a point in my life where I was “It’s just staying focused, staying on path, seeing what you want and knowing that no matter how tired you are, how many bruises you have, it’s going to worth it at some point.” – Angel
34 and I was in a [auto body) shop and I owned the shop and things were going good and I felt successful. So I was coming
“We didn’t have a business plan. We didn’t have a mission statement. I think our mission statement one day that we wrote
to the point where I [asked] ‘do I want to do this for the rest of my life?’” – Joe
down on a piece of paper was like ‘make it functional, make it sturdy, and above all else, make it cool.’” - Joe
“I didn’t have confidence as a kid so art was a way of expressing myself, but also hiding behind my little shadow box.” – Angel
“I knew [Angel] liked old stuff, and vintage things and building stuff. She would come to my house and we’d make crazy things and lights and she just wanted to get her
“I always tell people that if I can think it up in my head, Joe can create it with his hands.” – Angel
hands dirty.” – Joe “When I was 20, I was getting a divorce
24
“If we make it, we get to name it. And
and I had a toddler. So I went back and got my GED and then went immediately to another place to test and I started
“Our minds just kind of exploded and I guess you could call them pipe dreams. We shared our pinterest boards, how stupid
going to school in Youngstown for surgical
is that? You meet somebody and you
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
we’re a little bit ridiculous with stuff like that. We have an odd sense of humor.” – Joe
WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM
akropreneurs It’s pouring rain and you’re driving a jeep down a mountain. The narrow path in front of you looks more like a muddy slip-and-slide than a road. You’re in a foreign country where you can’t speak the language, and to make matters worse, your jeep breaks down. Oh, and there’s a couple of Haitian mango
to life in February 2015 as part of an honors research project. Because Akron and Haiti are important to Zeke, he wished to act as a bridge between the two. Before attending UA through a scholarship from Akron residents Jan and Tony Lannetta, Zeke had only ever visited the U.S. once.
farmers approaching you with machetes. If this sounds a bit terrifying, University of Akron student Andrew “Drew” Dawson would disagree. Just hours before the jeep broke down, Drew successfully negotiated a business deal between a Haitian farmer and Akron Coffee Roasters. He describes the experience as “life changing,” but these words don’t begin to portray his time with the coffee farmer. “[The coffee farmer] took pride in showing me that his coffee plantation was owned by his family for generations and generations” says Drew. “He started flipping through these pages
it his goal to come to the U.S. He graduated from College Univers in Haiti as valedictorian. Because many do not have the opportunity to earn an education in Haiti, Zeke considered himself lucky to be able to attend UA and complete his education.
Pictured (clockwise from top left): Albert Macso at
do is turn to education to try to help Haiti. The first opportunity we have to leave the country, we take it. We believe that if we can better
farmers in Haiti. (Photos courtesy of Drew Dawson.)
Last November, through the student organization Zips for Haiti, Drew had the opportunity to visit Haiti and bring back coffee beans to Albert Macso, owner
by Noor Hindi
Inspired by his trip, 10-year-old Zeke made
“I always wanted to come [to the U.S.] to go to school,” says Zeke. “With the younger generation and people like myself, what we
plantation in Haiti; Coffee farmers in Haiti; Coffee
Forging a Connection through Coffee
nice everything was here. I didn’t realize how much better life could be.”
of photos and showing me all these awards that he’d won for his [coffee] beans.”
Akron Coffee Roasters. (Photo by Noor Hindi ); Coffee
A Bridge Between Akron and Haiti
“When I came [to the U.S.] when I was 10, I thought I must have landed in paradise,” says Zeke. “The first thing that I noticed was how
of Akron Coffee Roasters. Since then, Akron Coffee Roasters and Zips for Haiti have been selling the coffee to Akron, with proceeds going back to Haiti.
ourselves, then we can be in a position to help Haiti.” While at UA pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Business and Human Resources, Zeke met Kevin Smith, the Director for Leadership Advancement in the College of Business Administration. While mentoring Zeke, Smith noticed that Zeke’s original honors project wasn’t living up to its full potential.
But Drew is only one part of the Akron/
Pictured left: Ezechiel "Zeke"
Isaac (photo by Noor Hindi)
Haiti connection. “Zeke was kind of this quiet, shy guy that was an enigma. He
Created by Ezechiel “Zeke” Isaac, Zips for Haiti came
(continued on page 37)
Join a community in Akron working on their dreams! Freelancers - Consultants - Startups - Creatives Join us for free on Thursdays and discover why Akron works from the Tech Lab www.OSCTechLab.com
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7 /
THE Devil Strip |
25
The Dish
27 TWO MONKS BREWING WELCOMES LADY BEER DRINKER 28 APTF: MISSION DECHECO’S
FOOD & DRINK IN AKRON
Locavore Lovin’ from the Oven
Farewell, Spring.
Hello,
Garlic Scapes!
For a spicier pesto, try the recipe below: 10-12 garlic scapes (blanching optional) 1 packed cup fresh basil leaves ¼ cup pulverized cashews (unsalted) 6 cubes of Ohio Farm Direct grassfed Garlic scapes grow from the bulbs of garlic mozzarella cheese plants and are harvested before the bulb. With ½ cup olive oil a soft garlic taste, they are a perfect stand in for ¼ tsp salt their bulbous counterpart. Zest of one lemon Juice of ½ lemon When harvested early in the season, the scapes are mild and tender enough to munch on raw. If you want to keep it mellow with a subtle If left to mature, they will develop a heat that bite, give my slightly-altered go-to a shot:
Optional: Fresh parsley (to taste) ¼ cup melted butter Few cracks of black pepper
can be mellowed out by a quick dip in boiling
6
garlic scapes (blanching optional)
with the steel blade.
water followed by an ice bath. Be sure to give your scapes a nibble before tossing them in your dish!
3 ¼ ¾
packed cups fresh basil leaves cup pulverized cashews (unsalted) cups freshly-grated parmesan cheese (or cubes of Ohio Farm Direct grassfed
Add the lemon zest and juice, blend once again.
While the garlic scape boasts a variety of delicious uses, such as pickling, roasting, and
½
mozzarella cheese) cup olive oil
Pour in the olive oil, ¼ cup at a time, and blend until desired consistency is reached.
the garlic scape. At nearly every stand, baskets upon baskets generously runneth over with vibrant green tendrils, inviting market-goers to marvel at their vibrancy and shape.
grilling, I chose to keep it simple. This kicky twist on my easy peasy go-to pesto recipe leaves ample room for variation in cheese, nuts, and binding agents. While I’m a sucker for pine
¼ tsp salt Zest of one lemon Juice of ½ lemon
Chop off the bottom bits of the scapes. If blanching, cut scapes in half and place in salted boiling water. Swirl ‘em around for 30 seconds, then transfer to a colander and rinse well with cold water. Blend together the scapes, basil, cashews, and cheese in a blender or food processor fitted
Store in an airtight container with extra olive oil drizzled on top to keep your pesto fresh. Enjoy!
nuts and parmesan, the cashews and Ohio Farm Direct grassfed mozzarella cheese used in these recipes lend a creamy texture that’s divinely
Garlic scapes are also great as a chopped up butter. Blend in your prefered amount of lemon
As the last breeze of June tumbles into what
spreadable. Bursts of light citrus and sweet basil cut through the heat of the scapes, lending balance and complexity to the garlicky notes.
is sure to be a sweltering July, I walked along the Highland Square farmer’s market, now held
Words and photos by Lia Pietrolungo
addition to hummus and stir fry, or in compound butter. Add three chopped scapes to softened
I went ahead and paired this wildly flavorful
zest, a splash of fresh lemon juice, and a dash of salt. Transfer the butter to an airtight container and store in the fridge.
at Will Christy Park, with a Popsmith Rhubarb Orange Blossom popsicle in one hand and an eager, empty basket in another.
pesto with spiralized zucchini from Log Cabin Farm and freshly-picked grape tomatoes, but it would lend itself beautifully to grilled chicken, sandwiches, or smattered on a cracker with
The Highland Square Farmer’s market is held on Thursdays, from 4 - 7 p.m. until September 28th in Will Christy Park at 1175 West Exchange
After no longer than two minutes of perusing, my eye drifted towards bunches of green curls
caprese fixings.
bound together by rubber bands.
Give this light, dreamy pesto a whirl this weekend, and say hello to the friendly folks at Log Cabin Farm and Ohio Farm Direct for me!
Behold, one of spring’s many late-season joys:
26
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
Street, Akron, OH 44302. You can catch the Howe Meadow Farmer’s Market on Saturdays from 9 a.m. - noon until October 28th at 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula, OH, 44264.
WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM
the dish
TVs were bright with the Indians game. There’s a dartboard, jukebox, and games like Jenga and Connect Four scattered around the bar and
LADY BEER DRINKER VISITS
When I asked about their brewing system, Patrick told me it’s “basically a big homebrew system.” Patrick and Steve had been homebrewing together for years. They opened Two Monks to produce “Beer for the Masses” – beer that everyone can enjoy. They focus their brewing style on that of traditional recipes in small batches. The dedication they have to
dump out a couple batches that didn’t turn out quite right. With 8 beers on tap, they only open their doors to guests Thursday through Saturday. This allows them to keep their production low and they are both able to keep their day jobs. “I don’t want this to stress me out,” Patrick explained. “If we tried to do too much, I know we would end up hating it.”
by Emily Anderson
I
f it hadn’t been a stop on my Summit Brew Path Passport, I might not have ever gone to Two Monks Brewing Co., and that would have been a shame. This little brewery almost seems to be hiding over on Akron’s “East End,” just past the Goodyear grounds, on Massillon Road. Just a
ten minute drive from Downtown, the Two Monks are lying low, brewing small batches of traditional beer recipes from around the world. The Two Monks are longtime friends and coworkers Patrick Armstead and Steve Prough, who opened their brewery last September. When I stopped by on a Friday night in May, I couldn’t help but feel guilty admitting I hadn’t been there before when the bartender asked. Turns out that bartender was actually Patrick, one of the Monks, and I got to chat with him a bit. The brewery is a small, open room with a handful of square tables and an L-shaped bar in the middle. The sun comes through the huge
arnie’s public house
tables. There are playing cards everywhere. It’s very homey and laid-back. It reminds me of going to a friend’s basement hangout, if that friend also brewed beer for everyone.
quality is obvious – the beer tastes clean, fresh, and true to style. Patrick told me they were very picky about the final product and have had to
words and photos
ap
As I drank my German Schwarzbier at the bar, I noticed there was a waitress taking beer orders from the tables. I asked Partick how many employees were there and he laughed and explained that was his wife, Chariti. When I asked her if she liked working there, she laughed too. She pointed and Patrick and said “Well, I have to go home with him, so yeah, he’s a great boss!” The Two Monks have no immediate plans to expand their hours or production, saying they like it just how it is for now. I think that’s my favorite part about this spot (besides the beer). They’re brewing for fun.
Elegantly Casual Dining featuring Modern Twists on Your Favorite Comfort Foods and Classic Cocktails 1682 W. Market St at Westgate Plaza in Akron 330-867-0154 Open 7 days a week 11:00am-2:30am
F OUR O E N TRY O TE PLAZA A WESTG RANTS! U RESTA
They’re not worried about maxing out profits or mass distribution. They just really enjoy making beer and want to share it with their community. Cheers to that! // Lady Beer Drinker is on Instagram @LadyBeerDrinker
Beer of the Month
window on the front wall during the day, but while I was there the
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
Aqueduct Brewing’s Euripides Strawberry Rhubarb Hefe Look how pretty. At 29 IBU’s and 5.2% alcohol, this is the perfect beer for the Summer season. It was created not only to appetize me for the Chipotle I would shamefully later pick up, but to sponsor a group called Wandering Aesthetics for the “bigger than a bread box” fundraiser. And it’s not often I walk into a brewery and collect more information about anything besides the beverage I’m seeking. Within five minutes of taking a seat, I found myself enlightened to meet Robert, who owns Aqueduct with his wife, and who was also quick to discuss how their Akron brewery is very supportive of the local arts. They have open mic nights and spoken word on Fridays and live music every Wednesday. Aqueduct isn’t your typical polished sit-down—it has much more of an industrial feel going with brick walls, tattered couches about and large garage-like opening to the patio. I feel like I’m simply at a buddy’s house as I taste the cold of the tart, the sweet and the crisp of my fruity brew, learning about Margaretha Burkhardt, one of the first female brewery owners in the 1800’s. I’m told about the history of the building and the creek that runs through the basement. This was definitely my favorite beer run: sipping and learning over a conversation with another Akronite, mostly wanting to abandon my pen and paper this time. Pictured: Fruity deliciousness at Aqueduct Brewing. Photo cred. Sam DePaul. // Sam DePaul is slowly running out of things to share with Akron about herself. She often unintentionally snorts when she laughs.
Akron’s Home of the All Day Breakfast featuring a Bloody Mary Menu, Mimosas and much more... 1688 W. Market St at Westgate Plaza in Akron 330-867-1114 Open 7 days a week 6:30am-3:00pm Sundays 8:00am-3:00pm
the dish Photo courtesy of the City of Akron
{The Dish} Peter Memmen Place: Eddy’s Deli & Restaurant Why do you keep going back? They have really awesome breakfast food.
AKRON PIZZA TASK FORCE DECHECO’S PIZZERIA
Lori Haag
AND THEIR #1 SELLERS
Place: Bistro of Green Why do you keep going back? The atmosphere, the people and food is all just amazing there.
by Kelcie Erbse
Anton McCure Place: Bob’s Hamburg Why do you keep going back? I like the undefeated burger which is one of their most famous burgers.
Marie Canoles Place: Julian’s Why do you keep going back? They serve really awesome breakfast and lunch dishes! I really like their breakfast platter. It’s like a hole in the wall. I don’t think people
W
hen it comes to pizza, Akron knows. business Akronites fell We know that finding a white their #1 best pizza that you want to order a
eight-piece chicken dinner for a discounted price. It’s equally as greasy and mouthwatering as the pizzas.
second time is a struggle, but luckily we have DeCheco’s Pizzeria to fulfil all of our giant garlic dreams on the south side of the city.
their White Pizza.
DeCheco’s Pizzeria has been one of the city’s favorite pizza places since the DeCheco family
into one thick layer of cheese that sits on top of the house made white sauce. You can tell they
to have a great time, get them both.
opened up back in 1993. The pizzeria is most known for their homemade specialty pizzas and beloved fried chicken. Through the years
have had years of practice mastering the White Pizza, because there’s a perfect amount of everything, from the sauce to the toppings.
// Kelcie Erbse is currently an intern at The Devil Strip
know it’s there.
This greasy, cheesy pie is made up of banana peppers, black olives and tomatoes, all sealed
If you’re not coming for the pizza, you’re coming for the chicken. Get one of DeCheco’s #1 sellers any day before 10 pm, or if you looking
but has been a prominent Akron pizza consumer for years. Email at kelcieerbse@gmail.com
One note: before tackling this dish, have your napkins ready because, as mentioned, it is
Nicole Milani Place: Louie’s Bar and Grille Why do you keep going back? It’s a fun place to hang out with great food! Their giant burgers are what they are known for. // Compiled by Kayla Sturm
28
boomed and in love with specialty pizza:
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
greasy. As you can tell by the pizza boxes, it can get messy, but where there’s grease, there’s crisp. The crust offers a nice last crispy chomp to the slice. The other pizza pictured was their Tuesday special of the week: a medium pepperoni for $8, with a solid taste on the iconic pizza.
DeCheco’s Pizzeria 2075 S. Main St. Akron, OH 44301 11 am - 10 pm
During the week, DeCheco’s has special pricing on specialty pizzas and their delicious fried chicken dinners. On Wednesday nights, try their
dechecospizzeria.com
WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM
$1.7
N
Happy Hour
3 - 7 pm • Mon. to Sat. $1.75 domestics | $2 wells | $3 select craft pints Sat. & Sun. • $5 Bloody Mary’s
Watch the games here in HD Grab a cold one & enjoy a Ninny’s hot dog while you’re here. ~ 801 W. Market STreet ~
NUEVO MODERN MEXICAN & TEQUILA BAR
RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED FOR SEATING BUT ADVENTURESOME TASTE BUDS REQUIRED FOR DINING
NUEVO CATERING CATERING FOR ANY EVENT, ANY SIZE, ANY CUISINE
"Our event was wonderful! Everyone loved the food, drinks, and venue. And your staff was excellent."
54 East Mill St. Akron 44308 (330) 762-8000 nuevomodmex.com Hours: M-Th 11-10, F 11-11, Sat 3-11
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The Scene MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
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DANIEL HORRIGAN, MAYOR
Akron’s family-friendly entertainment venue features music, movies, festivals, and community events!
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... Six Akron bands we think you should know by Floco Torres
For summer concert schedules and updates, follow us on
Logan, Noah & Nate play the triangle offense in their pop punk band Long Shot. The threepiece band is making textbook pop-punk songs to bring out the inner headbanging angsty teenager still chilling in all of us. Their first EP, “Destroy, Remorse, Repeat” was released in October of last year and is a pretty solid offering in its six songs. The lead single “Maybe Next Paycheck” is a Blink-182-esque ode to the confusing emotional games played by a flaky veteran in a friend or lover. Long Shot has been pretty active playing shows this year, and you can catch them in Lakewood on Saturday, July
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
29 at The Foundry Concert Club. (Photo courtesy of Long Shot)
ç Expect Delays Jesus Christ, “I Hope It’s Sunny There, Because It’s Raining Here” is a sad song. Usually no one gets me in my feelings except for Drake, but Luke Freday aka Expected Delays got me there on this song. The acoustic tune starts with a voicemail from an ex or a current girlfriend. By the tone in her voice when she says “I DO love you. I love you alot,” I would say that Luke moved on and she could smell happiness in the (continued on page 37)
Lock3@Lock3Akron
Lock3live
Sat. July 8th
330 Road Show Presented by The SUMMIT 91.3 The Gage Brothers and Band of Lovers
3:00 p.m. Featuring the movie
Enjoy some malternative beverages. Tasting starts at 5:00 p.m.
Musical Guest CHEMICAL
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off 8:00 p.m.
WONDERS
with Elec Simon
Free Admission. Bring your blankets & chairs. Brought to you by Tramonte Distributing.
å Long Shot
Lock3 Akron
Kids inflatables, contests, school supply giveaway and entertainment
The Italian-American Festival
it-am.org
JUL 13th – 15th
11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. | Free Admission
JUL 22nd – 23rd
akronafricanculture.com
Jul 20|Aug 17|Sept 21 and Parade Exhibition Akron African Festival Discover blues and jazz beats on the banks of the Ohio-Erie Canal
Lock Bottom Blues & Jazz at Lock 4 7 – 9 p.m. Free Admission Begins at 6:00 p.m.
JUL 19 John J. Saxx Watkins JUL 26 Fabulous Voices
Movie in the Park Nights Free Admission. Family-friendly features shown on a big
Fri. July 14th Lane Field screen under the stars. Movies begins at 9 p.m. Bring a Fri. July 21st blanket or your lawn chair. Call 330-375-2804 for info. Will Christy Park
July 20th
Live local music, downtown beer garden, food trucks and yard games. Located outdoors off Bowery St. behind the Civic Theatre next to Lock 3. Admission is free.
Presented by
thedevilstrip.com
Culitivate your artistic knowledge with a focus on music, visual arts, gardening and more! Free for all ages!
July 11 Firestone Park Community Center 6-8 p.m. Aug 1 1745 Goodyear Blvd. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. TRAMONTE DISTRIBUTING CO.
the scene
U
nlike in the movies where a stoic hero unflappably acts upon a strict, unwavering ethos and
The Chosen People? (2017) by Ted Zep, SuperNoBueno.Wordpress.com
In intent only, “The Chosen People?” is an intellectual descendant of Kevin Smith’s
worldview, real life isn’t quite that pat or conclusive. People spend their entire lives attempting to define themselves.
Funded by a Kickstarter campaign, Gippin spent
Dogma. Smith’s film is a scripted comedy that acts as an outlet for him to voice
Experience, wisdom and maturity combine to inform one’s perception of who they
the next three years on the project. The resulting
frustrations and concerns with the Roman Catholic Church.
are at any particular moment. Sometimes that matches how the rest of the world
documentary is a de facto crash course in
“The Chosen People?” serves the same function for Gippin.
perceives them, sometimes not. If a person is mindful of such things, it can be stunning how profoundly one’s self-view
the history of Judaism. He speaks to rabbis, scholars and laypeople in his search for the
The comparisons with the two movies ends there but I thought it is of interest to note that there
can pivot or densen.
psychological, theological and historical ramifications attached to being the “chosen ones.”
is a precedent of filmmakers looking for religious truth through the sounding board of their art.
“The Chosen People?”, is a thorough examination of his struggle with one of the core elements with which all people have to
Acting as both narrator and interviewer, Gippin provides a balanced and unflinching look at the history of the
Josh Gippin has created a modern day coming-of-age tale about his relationship to one of the world’s oldest religions. He
contend; one’s relationship with their faith. Gippin explains that he is a secular Jew, which is a person who was born into the
Jewish people. In the hands of another director this could easily be a dry film, but in Gippin’s it’s not. He presents an accessible, fully fleshed-out narrative that
uses sharp, witty filmmaking to construct a documentary rife with agency and candor. By sublimating a litany of opinions and interpretations of the history and creed
faith but doesn’t actively practice it. In fact, he finds some of the defining doctrine to be troubling. In particular, the belief held
defines why tradition is not only important but essential. At the same time, he parses the slavish strictness to that devotion
of the Jewish people with a single goal in mind, Gippin has crafted a film designed to ignite conversation. He brashly reminds
sacred by devout practitioners that Jews are the “chosen people” of God. Gippin
against a modern, secular view of the world.
us that there is never an end to the journey of discovering who we are.
Josh Gippin is a documentary filmmaker from Akron, OH. His new picture,
Super No Bueno
decided to delve into the topic to see if he could distill clarity for himself.
Floco’s Modern Life The Signal Tree Festival (Year One) by Floco Torres
I
feel like I sound like one of those folks in idle conversation at brunch talking about how fast the year has gone by. Seriously though, I’ve been in Akron for six months already, and
(every third Thursday through September) and The Signal Tree Festival, which takes place all day on Saturday, July 29.
Akron is cultivating a mighty amount of culture. My job has been to speak the language of ‘musician’ and make sure that
life hasn’t moved this fast in a long time. Part of this has to do with my new record “again”
I have at least six years experience working
we represent as much of our meritorious talent as possible.
coming out on July 7 (shameless plug). So I’ve been working a new single/video, and I also worked my ninth year as a camp coach at the
with Chris Horne, so I came in knowing he has brilliant ideas and the right amount of a filter when something is stupid. When he brought
I’ve been managing my own career since day one (about ten years now), so from bar
Otis Redding Music Camp down in Macon, GA (both of which kept me out of town almost
me in to meet about the festival, which was unnamed at the time, the main goal was clear:
all of June, basically). Working here with TDS covering the Akron music scene has filled the other half of my schedule, and lately, so has
celebrating Akron without being corny about it. The idea was to make current residents proud and former residents gleefully jealous while
conversations to countless shows played in front of no one, I’d like to think I have an idea of what makes a musician happy. I also know that creative types are an assorted bag of Halloween candy, and that you just have to be
booking bands for the Live at Lock 4 events
visiting during the weekend of the festival.
patient and maybe have a beer within reach.
Pictured: Red Rose Panic courtesy of Red Rose Panic
I can say so far that the bands I’ve been communicating with have been some of the nicest and easiest guys/girls to work with. It’s a testament to the culture of personalities in Akron: if it builds up the community then all hands are on deck. I have encountered a few unnecessary egos, but I think those are rooted more in not receiving the proper amount of hugs after losing a little league baseball game. (continued on page 36)
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32
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
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IN
the scene
IN THE CROWD
red rose panic at the vortex by Floco Torres; Photos by Ashley Kouri
In my ten years of playing and attending shows, have had similar turnout, despite their incredible I’ve learned that you rarely EVER arrive at the momentum in 2017 so far. venue based on the ‘show starts at this time’ hour that’s posted. You usually never know if the time posted is when the doors open or
A big part of that momentum surfaced around a new song: a Cleveland Cavaliers anthem
when the show starts. If the time posted is 8 pm (like it was for the Red Rose Panic show), then I try to come through between 9 - 9:30
entitled “Defend The Land,” which was a song I hadn’t heard yet. While they told us about it, they didn’t play it. I’m not sure why, but I
pm (which is when I showed up). I’m familiar
nodded along as they ran through some of their
with The Vortex, so I wasn’t surprised that there were only about 20 of us patiently waiting, because most of their shows have had a later
material that I recognize. Styxx is usually the anchor for the band’s energy when they play live, but for this show I felt like Luminari was as
influx of traffic.
solid as I’ve ever seen him. He commanded the few of us with punch and
We waited about an hour (Well, I did. Our photographer Ashley had been there since 8
SPONSORED BY
diction while delivering his lyrics. The band at
pm. She knows the rule I mentioned above now though.) before the opener Ebony Red took the stage as a four piece band. Most of her backing band is made up of Red Rose Panic, so the musicianship helped accompany Ebony’s exceptional vocals through a short set of covers. Although she needed to read the lyrics to a few songs from her phone, her willingness to “sing like it was 10,000 of us” made her performance enjoyable.
times looks like an oil painting that comes alive in the corner of your eye, but when you look they freeze back in place. It’s still captivating to look at, but only if you catch that split second.
There was a weird lull between sets and I assumed it was because the attendance numbers were a bit low (we eventually made it to about 30 people). We hear the “give it 100% every time you perform no matter how many
when a fan drunkenly got on stage and wanted to take a picture with Luminari, and somehow this spiraled into wanting an individual picture with each band member. I don’t blame them for being done at that point. There aren’t many
people blah blah” speech, but every musician knows that a low attendance or a flat-energy crowd can weigh on your mind for the night. Nevertheless you have to push through. The last live shows where I’ve seen Red Rose Panic
ways I can think of to bounce through that randomness positively. I left The Vortex knowing one thing: I like Red Rose Panic and I can’t wait to be at that packed out show when I can see them go all out.
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
1-8pm: Workshop Tours / Local Food & Drink / Pedal Clinics / Riff-Off Contest / Live Music
Red Rose Panic makes awesome spring/ summer/party jams, so the vibes are always consistent throughout the show. Luminari & Styxx made it a point to thank the few of us that came out and supported them "before they get famous." Their set weirdly ended
The Devil Strip ture Akron Music, Art & Cul
www.earthquakerdevices.com/eqday
the scene
D
ON
// Photos by Jennifer Klingenberg and Richie Katila
E R ECO TH R
On the Record:
The Conway Brothers tried to tell us by Floco Torres
T
he Conway Brothers have one mission and that’s to “carry the torch of original, NEO-based blues/funk/soul/rock music into
the future.” I would personally advise against taking on such a robust task
by Allen Toussaint). Sonically, “Told You So” sounds bright and crisp in all the right places. There’s no attempt to over-polish Corey Conway’s vocals, and drummer/ percussionist Dylan Conway is solid throughout. “Breakthrough” features a catchy trumpet riff (that I SWORE was from something else but couldn’t find it) from Jon Lampley,
because so many have tried before, but the beautiful thing about music is that there’s always an opportunity to be pleasantly surprised. Whether Corey and Dylan will
ON STAGE WITH
by Brett Auerbach
achieve their goal remains to be seen, but what can be said is that their album “Told You So” is
a member of the house band on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Chad Tisch
a step in the right direction.
pops in smoothly on a few songs to provide background vocals but the heavy lifting is done by Corey, who also plays bass and guitar.
All eight songs on the album were written, recorded and arranged in a living room in Kent (except track seven which was arranged
JEFF HARDY
by T.J. Masterson (continued on page 38)
H
e's been a staple on the Akron music scene for as long as I can remember. He’s immediately noticeable, and with his almost cartoonish voice appears to have
Next stop: Hardy helped form the legendary Akron band C.D. Truth in 1990, which was influenced by bands like The Who, Black Flag, The Stooges, Hawkwind and T-Rex, not to mention local acts like Tin Huey, The Bizarros and The Rubber City Rebels (who were signed
come out of a Tim Burton film. If you squint slightly, his looks are of one part Jack White and one part Marc Bolan of T-Rex. Add maybe a splash of Syd Barrett. You just get the feeling that he was born to be on stage, behind the mic, with guitar in hand, sweating and pouring
by the local label Clone Records). "These bands made me believe I could make a record," says Hardy.
it all out for the crowd. He's kept it local for nearly thirty years now, never touring for more
became a household name in the Akron music scene and played together for about 20 years.
than a week. He’s Jeff Hardy, and he does it all for the love of entertaining and performing.
With hometown favorites like "We Got The Blimp" and "I Hate Route 8," C.D. Truth
If you have been watching the Akron music
In 1997, Hardy formed the Christmas punk band Missile Toe, playing Christmas favorites with a Johnny Rotten edge all while dressed as
scene for the last few decades, you have
either an elf, Santa, an angel or a snowman.
probably seen Hardy perform, heading such acts as C.D. Truth, Zero Defex, The Dutch Babies and his Christmas band, Missle Toe. In the late 80's he started a band called The
What could be better!? Hardy's learned that everyone loves Santa Claus or an elf, but a snowman...not so much.
Creeps and was soon recognized by the up-and-coming goth-punk band, Germ Free Adolesence, who was about to embark on a
"I don't know man,” Hardy says. “Something about that big round head. People want to punch it. I've been smacked or hit like a dozen
tour and needed a bassist. They hired Hardy. In 1988, they were set to play a show at the legendary CBGB in New York when they ran
times at various venues. I don't think I'm gonna be the snowman anymore."
into a little trouble.
(continued on page 38)
"Our bass player apparently had a little drug problem and sold all our gear right before the show,” Hardy says. “He claimed that he accidently left the van unlocked, but we knew better." They never got to play the show. "Yeah,” Hardy says with a gasp and agonizing giggle, "The ride back home was terrible." With no equipment, Hardy wasn't able to play for a year after that.
34
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
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Overflow The Black Box
Dance Fever: A Night with NCCAkron
(continued from page 13) money to handle AWCC responsibilities.
(continued from page 13) from Wesleyan University. She not only knows
Despite continuous struggle, devoted Coach House artists have worked together to break
how to dance, but she knows how to “think and often asked to write a talk and write about dance,” which is one of her grant or predict a piece that they haven’t made main priorities as executive and artistic director. yet before they’ve done
record numbers in attendance. They increased season performance dates and brought Actor’s Equity Association (AEA) members to the stage.
what they study or what they create. But for choreographers, they’re
Unfortunately, devotion alone does not mend
some of the research. Or “It is not just art for art’s sake, but it is part of the unique vision to locate it [NCCAkron] with a what I call positive failure. university environment and a university research We offer a space or offer
financial tension.
environment,” says Christy.
Nevertheless, financial woes and the past un-
In other words, supporting the structure and
stable relationship between AWCC and Coach House did not overshadow the reality that the theater deserved to see out its 90th year.
research of dance is equally important as the artistry of the dance itself, which is often overlooked.
As told by “Dance Magazine,” Christy is one of
“A 90-year legacy is much bigger than any one person or season,” says JT Buck, Coach House’s newly appointed artistic director. “Coach House
“I feel it’s my responsibility to [communicate] that a choreographer in the studio is the same as a scientist in the laboratory,” says
survived the Great Depression, television and Netflix after all.”
Christy. “We don’t always ask scientists what their end product and application will be,
uniting the community. “My hope in growing this is not necessarily the international focus, but the plan is to offer up a social experiment and create an informal environment,” Christy
Buck now carries the weight of keeping the theater afloat, and he intends to see the theater through its 90th season and beyond. He has a lot of work ahead of him aside from the
On the Street
We’re happy to tell you that Hunter and Ellen
How to help
(continued from page 19) and always a big help, even after I was out of the tent. The Snow Angels, Walsh Jesuit, and Hoban always were a big help
are no longer homeless! They just moved into an apartment. Ellen worked hard, and is still working to make a life for herself and Hunter. I witnessed all the hard work. She would have
If you want to help Ellen and Hunter specifically, you can mail a check or money order
to get up early to leave the churches they were
wipes and such. They also accept general donations and all the money goes to help people like Ellen and Hunter.
aforementioned financial friction. The Coach House board resigned with the end of the season, the next season is being announced much later than usual, and the AWCC has a new president, Tivoli Smith. Buck has accepted these challenges and has a strategy. He acknowledges the current relationship between the AWCC and Coach House. Buck has asked the AWCC Board of Trustees to spend time reviewing and refining outdated policies, “resetting the table for a more open relationship” between AWCC and Coach House to create more transparency. This also calls for increased oversight to ensure the
Is there anything else you want to tell us, or want people to know about you? Not really anything about me specifically. I just want to tell other people who are currently homeless to not give up. There are lots of resources out there. You just have to go out and find them. You have to keep going and don’t let anyone tell you that you’re not worth the help.
New / Native (continued from page 20) I also hope that the arts keep making a strong showing in our city. I'd love to see our downtown be a walkable and bikeable green
term standard.
city center bustling with activity and bursting with love. I hope our community continues to
Buck’s next challenge will be to engage the community and plan the new season. Com-
be a safe haven for people from all walks of life and all cultures and countries. I adore Akron, and if in 5 years the only thing that changes is
proper handling of money for a better, long-
munity engagement will begin July 1, with a Christmas in July where they will announce Coach House’s newest season. In September, there will be an old-fashioned (including the sound effects) radio-style performance with three short scripts that have never been done in Akron. Then the first full-scale production: a historical musical called “Christmas in Akron.” It’s about Akron’s O’Neil’s department store in the 1970s and was written by Rob Loos, an Akron expat. Buck has also mentioned a possible education initiative in Coach House’s future. Buck acknowledges the community’s disappointment in Coach House’s current state. However, he encourages dialogue, and asks those who want to get involved to buy season tickets, come to volunteer meetings, contact them on social media or by email and phone. He’s keeping the board and community accountable for the future transparency and prosperity of the vintage theater. Happy birthday, Coach House. Good luck.
36
says. “That’s how we get to know each other.
staying at to catch the bus, with her baby. She went to sell her plasma to earn extra money. She went to job training classes and parenting classes. These are just some of the things that I witnessed personally. I LOVE that one of Ellen’s three words to describe being homeless was “fixable.” I’m proud of all she has accomplished to fix her situation. Keep going Ellen and Hunter!
The Trouble with Old People (continued from page 21) The arrival of a grandchild opens the final frontier in keeping score. It gives us one more chance to re-balance the scales with our friends other areas of life.
Floco's Modern Life
dry-land farming techniques in Sub-Saharan Africa, we were able to share our learnings at
(continued from page 32) The hard part here is that you can’t have all 50 of your favorite bands play the festival because it would be four days long, and this is only
the Congressional hearing last week. I think they were listening. I think it will make a difference."
year one. It’s thrilling, though, to know that we’ll be introducing music to Akronites who
Sam Krongan, former Junior Class Assistant
Gretchen E. Pluess and Jul Big Green (I haven’t Jul’s band yet), I’m elated to watch them create new fans at Signal Tree 2017. Pictured: Gretchen Rachel Martin
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
// Sierra Allen: senior journalism major at Kent State University, contributing writer for TDS and Ohio Magazine, self-proclaimed interior designer thanks to HGTV.
designated for them and Akron Snow Angels will use it to purchase items like baby diapers,
Akron Snow Angels PO Box 107 Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44222
might make the travel team in soccer this year and his coach says he's already the best on his team in staying out the way of the bigger boys and keeping his uniform clean. Who does your grandson play for?"
who may have been slightly more successful in
Bill Gates, at his high school class reunion: "And so after Melinda and I got back from seeing what our foundation is doing to teach
don’t get out to shows as much as they used to, or maybe they never did at all. Whether it be Red Rose Panic and STEMS with their rising momentum, or veterans on the scene like
Whether we’re actual neighbors, I hope to create that sort of support for dance.”
More information about NCCAkron and its the most influential people in the industry. She upcoming events can be found at aims to use her influence towards creating a solid backing for dance’s infrastructure, all while nccakron.org.
that more people see what I see, I would call that a great success.
E. Pleuss by // Josy Jones. Theatre nerd. Rubber duck collector. Mother of none.
opportunities for rigorous play and positive failure.”
You might conclude from all this that aginginto wisdom is a totally unrealistic goal. Not at all. Like some others my age, I find that if I am mindful, I can avoid pointless competitiveness. I wish I had learned earlier in life how to focus on the things that really matter. In fact, that's what I decided to talk to our grandson's kindergarten class about last week when they had Grandparents' Day. You can see us all here, in this class picture. He's the smart-looking one. — Steve Van Auken
Treasurer: "That's nice, Bill. Our grandson, Tyler,
A Sign of Hope (continued from page 22)
end of the year last year that there was even going to be a Rawlings Gold Glove given out
and more and more people will continue to want to watch softball and want to have it on television.
to a woman, so I played the way that I always played, not knowing that this would be granted to me or granted to anyone, and so obviously I
Having won this prestigious award so early in your career, how do you feel about
would love to win a second one, which is going to keep me competing, but it doesn’t change who I am.
moving forward? Do you feel that there is more pressure now? No, I don’t feel as if there’s any pressure. I mean I was the same way
Pictured on page 22: A.J. Andrews (Photo courtesy of A.J. Andrews).
in college, I’d go for every ball I could; I laid out and made those plays. I didn’t know until the
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overflow A Bridge Between Akron and Haiti
“It was awesome. I’m not even a big coffee
(continued from page 25) didn’t talk a lot, he didn’t say much, he could
guy and I had like 5 different cups of coffee in front of me with different methods to make
have easily been written off as this guy who just it” says Drew. “When you drink coffee, you get that warm and fuzzy feeling. We want wasn’t trying very hard,” says Smith. “But he’s people to associate this with Haiti.” brilliant. He’s got three degrees now.” Smith was right. Since February 2015, Zips for Haiti has sponsored five trips to Haiti. Zeke has
Pictured right: Andrew “Drew” Dawson in Haiti. (Photo courtesy of Drew Dawson.)
also finished his bachelor’s degree, as well as
Baseball Now! Goes Softballin' (continued from page 22 ) estate behind home plate. In addition to the thrifty tickets, the food and beverage prices at Firestone Stadium are super reasonable. And they have Strickland’s ice cream! Pictured above: Firestone Stadium in South Akron has been home to the Racers since 1999 (Photo courtesy of Dave Daly/Baseball Now!)
As the game began, it was clear that the Racers were excited and ready to be playing at home. The Eagles got off to a 1-0 lead after the top of the first. They never lead again. The Racers’ bats were lit all game, culminating in four home runs and a 12-2 victory. One of those home runs was hit by third basemen Kelley Montalvo. Montalvo is clearly a team leader. Her enthusiasm on the field is only matched by her energy in the dugout. Watching her cover third base from halfway down the line to home is epic. She is always giving her teammates positive motivation, whether having the pitcher’s back on the field or being the first to lineup for a high-five when someone crosses home plate. She and the rest of the team are totally awesome to watch. I cannot wait to get back to another Racers’ game and look forward to hopping on my bicycle and taking the towpath down to the connecting Wilbeth Rd bike path, which takes you right to the stadium. Akron might be the only city with two professional ball clubs pretty much right on a major bike route. Just one more reason to love baseball, softball and the city I call home. Don’t be a chump. Go to a Racers Game! // Dave Daly has been pretending to be a sports columnist since 2017. He firmly believes Chief Wahoo is a racist caricature and should be removed from all Indians’ gear.
two masters degrees. Aside from this, Zips for Haiti has made it their goal to raise $90,000 and fund a Haitian student’s education at UA. That’s where Akron Coffee Roasters comes in. Each time someone buys a bag of Haitian coffee from Zips for Haiti or Akron Coffee Roasters, a portion of the proceeds goes towards the $90,000 goal. After Drew returned from his trip from Haiti, he shared the coffee
And those mango farmers with machetes? They just needed to cut a few mangoes off a tree for their business.
For more information, please visit
zipsforhaiti.org. // Noor Hindi is currently pursuing her MFA in poetry at The University of Akron. She is usually very
nervous. Check her out at nervouspoodlepoetry.com.
30 N High St, Akron, OH 44308 For more information, visit akron.coffee
beans with Macso, who helped him roast the coffee and prepare it for customers.
A Bridge Between Akron and Haiti
as much about family as it is playing the actual
African and Latin elements and much more.
(continued from page 31) air, so she called to completely screw his world up. They could also be happily in love, and she was just saying, “goodnight, and I’m still bitter”
songs. With a the new demo, the guys may be getting ready for a new album, so stay tuned.
Their “Party-Gras” style energy keeps the vibes danceable on their latest record “We All Got The Same” that was released last year. “Payday Come” was my favorite, because we
(Photo courtesy of Stereovox)
(who knows?). Expected Delays mixes poetry and ë Mo Mojo music, and has been building up a pretty decent No, their name is not “Mojo Jojo,” which following in 2017. (Photo courtesy of Expect Delays) is where my brain goes everytime I read the name. Mo Mojo is a seven piece Zydeco-based é Ulysses band blending reggae, Rock ‘n’ Roll, R&B, Ulysses is a four-piece indie-rock band. Dan, Chris, Clayton and Marc keep the vibes pretty chill. Not to say that they can’t “rock out,” but their three-song EP, “Home is a Motel” (a
can all relate to the lyrics, “Payday Come, and the money’s already gone.” You now have an anthem for when you go out and blow money like you don’t have bills and dog food to buy. (Photo courtesy of Mo Mojo)
quote taken from Kurt Vonnegut’s “Breakfast of Champions”) tackles “the idea of going home again from love to loss and the areas in between.” The three-song project is melancholy and reflective and is good for that drive home after you break up with someone you hoped it would work out with. They entered 2017 writing new songs and have been playing a few shows here and there throughout the spring/ early summer. Check these guys out and look out for some new music soon. (Photo courtesy of Ulysses)
è Steven Jeffrey Sometimes you’ve gotta strip everything away and just get down to a man and his guitar. You can find Steven Jeffrey all over Akron and beyond playing some of your favorite blues and rock jams on his acoustic. Steven has a robust voice and always looks like he’s having a good time. He’s playing Ohio Brewing Company a few times this year, so that may be a good place to catch him next. (Photo courtesy of Steven Jeffrey)
ê Stereovox Next Akron Racers Homestand at Firestone Stadium
Friday, July 7 through Wednesday, July 12 1575 Firestone Pkwy For more information on dates, times and tickets visit akronracers.org
AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE
Michael, Nicholas, Andrew and Scott make up the four-piece rock band Stereovox. Their newest demo “Believe” was released earlier this month and is an uplifting tune about self confidence and trust. This message of positivity and breaking through can be found in a lot of their songs on an extensive Reverbnation playlist. Inspired by the 50s, 60s & 70s era innovators of Rock ‘n’ Roll, their music is just
JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7 /
THE Devil Strip |
37
back of the book
Urine Luck: Liberty Nature Center
front doors of the Nature Center, and they are luxurious in their simplicity. They were so clean that they felt brand new.
by Emily Dressler Your favorite Summit Metroparks bathroom reviewer is back. I haven’t gone anywhere, actually. I’ve been here all along, hanging out in park bathrooms and taking pictures in a non-creepy way.
The women’s room has three stalls, one of which is handicap accessible, three sinks, and artful mood
If it weren’t for Summit Metroparks, I would have no idea of the sheer expanse of Summit County since I don’t read maps or operate in other logical ways. For instance, Liberty Park in Twinsburg? Yeah, that’s in Summit County, and after driving all over this county, it’s natural that you will need to use the restroom. Welcome, my little explorer, to the Liberty Park Nature Center, aka the spa. Liberty Park Nature Center is a welcome respite on a rainy day and is also great for bird watching. The bathrooms are located near the
lighting. The changing table is in the handicap accessible stall. The thermostat near the door surprised me and I wondered if this is a normal feature that I have not noticed in other restrooms. My very own temperature-controlled restroom?? Goodness. This really could be a spa. I could turn up the temperature and hang out with all those cold-blooded reptiles in here. A muted color palette is generally kind of blah and also, unfortunately, expected in a restroom,
High & Low Winery
in Medina, Ohio (which is basically still Fairlawn, so I reviewed it, OKAY?).
by Marissa Marangoni Hello, friends. As you may have noticed, I am not a very fancy person. And I don’t know things about fancy stuff. But I did go to the High & Low Winery, where a non-fancy person like me was made to feel at home and not completely dumb when trying to order wine that I, first off, know nothing about, and secondly, do not even really like.
I am told the wines were good. I drank some, because “when in Rome,” and they tasted like wine. Wine expert, I am not, but bathroom expert I am, so forget the wine, let’s visit the place where the business happens.
Natural Highs by Emily Dressler and Marissa Marangoni
but this space looks sophisticated with the mixture of brown, light brown, and another
to this bathroom like the setup at my home turf hangout, the Nature Realm. The outside
brownish hue. The cement floors are industrialchic and the walls look like slate tile, which is pretty sweet. It’s a nice mix of texture that is
entrance at the Nature Realm allows for park visitors to use the restroom when the Nature Center isn’t open.
unexpected for a park bathroom. Conversations with strangers in public bathrooms are never my favorite, but I do think it’s neat that afterwards, you’re like “well, that is one set of circumstances that will never present itself again.” When I was at the sink
This spa/bathroom, even with the forced-butpleasant conversation I fell into and the lack of an outside entrance, has a calming effect. I would like to be there now and bask in its serenity. For that, I am awarding 5/5 toilets.
with my 3 year old, a park employee came in and greeted us as she washed her hands. This simple greeting turned into a conversation about our dead family tortoise, Spike. RIP,
Liberty Park Nature Center 9999 Liberty Rd. Twinsburg, OH Spike. Will I ever have that same conversation in For more info, visit: summitmetroparks.org a bathroom again? Probably not, and I am okay with that but am also glad it happened. // When Emily isn’t busy hanging out in park bathrooms, she’s writing about them or thinking about
If I had to find a downside (and I don’t have to, but I am a complainer, so I should make an attempt) it’s that there is no outside entrance
other real-life things she should be doing.
and really, I was glad I did. The woodwork was pretty, the art was nice, the space was very clean and updated and really, I have no complaints!
a great bathroom. Would visit again. It’s all highs at High & low. A 5/5 toilets from me!
My favorite part of this potty was the high risk level High & Low took. Now, *I* have never stolen toilet paper, but I know plenty of people who have. So the basket with six rolls of toilet paper in a basket on the floor, and then the two rolls next to the toilet, is a risky move for potential TP kleptos. But High & Low trusts their customers. Maybe wine connoisseurs don’t
High & Low Winery 588 Medina Rd. Medina, OH 44256 (844) 466-4456 Mon.-Thurs.: 11:30a - 10p Fri. - Sat.: 11:30a - 11p Sun.: 11:30a - 8p // Marissa will NEVER use Charmin’ TP with those
steal things. Maybe the fear of stolen toilet
damn disgusting bears. You shouldn’t either. Bears with TP shreds on their butts are unnecessary and not
Unfortunately, I cow to society’s rules
paper is overridden by a horrific bathroom tale when one of the owners ran out of toilet paper in a public bathroom. Probably, we will never know, but at any rate, the TP is abundant here.
sometimes, so I stuck with the women’s place,
Drip-drying is never going to happen. This was
On the Record
reinvent the wheel, but some of my favorite
On Stage with Jeff Hardy
(continued from page 34) There’s only one instrumental song on the record in “tamPING” and the brothers kept
blues records are a little more aggressive in message and delivery. It does however sound like two brothers having fun doing what they love to do, and that’s not a bad thing. Maybe
(continued from page 34) Minus this tragic sub-story, the band has enjoyed great popularity playing gigs like the
Drinking dry liquid does not make any sense to me, but even when your drink is dry, your bladder still fills, and then you have to make your way past the very tall ordering bar to the single-stall bathrooms at High & Low Winery
Each single staller has a toilet and a sink. I didn’t go in the men’s spot, but I would have had it been the only one available.
charming. #boycottthebears
"When I was younger, I had some opportunities to tour with some other bands, and I wish I would have travelled more," Hardy says.
the jamming to a tasteful minimum. Solid musicianship carries any blues tune for the most when it’s all said and done, The Conway part, and The Conway Brothers nail it in that Brothers will be sitting back as pioneers of their regard. The album boasts solid tunes to ride to respective lane smiling because they indeed did and I’m sure they make a pretty danceable live tell us so. set, but “Told You So” lacks a little in emotion
Warrior Dash with 18,000 in attendance, or the Akron art Museum, which he loves because
He's approaching the big 5-0 now and considers retiring. He knows his young groupie
he feels like he's a part of and giving to the community. His love for the city and community are apparent in his lyrics and loyalty.
numbers are declining. “A number of people have told me I'm supposed to Rock and Roll til I die, so I'm gonna stick it out,” Hardy says. Sounds like good advice to me.
and grit. I don’t think they should try and
“I'm supposed to be here,” Hardy says. “You guys wouldn't have the Route 8 song or The
38
// Photos of The Conway Brothers by
| THE Devil Strip / JULY 2017 • VOL 3 • ISSUE #7
Missile Toe will be playing at Buzzbin in
Blimp Song. What would you do at Christmas? I'm supposed to be here to serve you guys." “ I mean I never wanted to be Michael Stanley, but I guess I am Michael Stanley. I sing about my
Canton On July 7 and The Ellet Library on July 25.
town a lot. “
headed to the studio in August and are scheduled to play The Happy Dog in
Hardy does have some regrets about the choices he's made in his music career.
Cleveland September 12.
His current band, The Dutch Babies are
WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM
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Philip Anderson is a pianist, singer, teacher, arranger, composer, videographer, designer, etc. He leads an up-&-coming experimental R&B project called ‘Bluelight,’ for which he composes, plays, and sings. Philip also produces arrangements, backing tracks, interactive sheet music and piano lesson videos for Quincy Jones’ company ‘Playground Sessions’ from his home studio in downtown Akron’s Historic Arts District.. www.summitlive365.com/artist/philip-anderson
The Nightlight Cinema packed the house with Philip Anderson and bluelight at the premiere of its 2nd album, TVNNELS by hosting a one of a kind, multimedia experience. The evening was a full sensory experience - something that cinema and live performance and music do not achieve on their own - and all this was the brainchild of a talented, Akron-based artist. SummitLive365.com Heidi loves telling stories through a visual dialogue whether it be with graphic design, illustration or photography. Specializing in portraiture and brand photography as well as brand/identity design. Heidi approaches photography with a photo journalistic style, capturing real moments without distracting from them. She has also worked with American Greetings, b.lovely, Cleveland City Mission, Expand Interactive, Halo Publishing, Plant Kingdom, Summit County Democratic Party, Tumblin4kids, and many others through her work with Cleveland branding + marketing company Indie Foundry creating thoughtful design solutions that place equal value in aesthetic and concept. www.summitlive365.com/artist/heidi-rolf