April 2021 Akron Life Magazine

The Pets Issue

VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 4

APRIL 2021

SOAK UP FRESH FOOD AND ART IN

CUYAHOGA FALLS ENJOY OUTDOOR FUN IN

AMISH COUNTRY CAVS STAR

LARRY NANCE JR. ON GIVING & RESILIENCE

By My Side Pet companions that bring joy & healing

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APR. 2021 $3.95

Meet THEO and his mom, MEGHAN, on page 22. photo by Tylar Sutton

C U R ATO R

As steward of the firm’s best client practices and processes, my most important role is to create the five-star client experience that W3 prides itself on. Behind the scenes, there is a complex operation that spans multiple office locations and a network of employees.

I make certain that all of these facets run smoothly and in tandem, while keeping an eye toward innovation to constantly improve our processes. I know these efforts are successful when I hear from clients who say that every encounter with us feels like they are W3’s most important client.

Michael Vasiloff Chief Operating Officer

GLOBAL ACCOUNTING | 330.867.3578 WEALTH MANAGEMENT | 330.836.3805 W3FINANCIALGROUP.COM Fee-Based Planning offered through W3 Wealth Advisors, LLC, a State Registered Investment Advisor. Third Party Money Management offered through Valmark Advisers, Inc., a SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through Valmark Securities, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. W3 Global Accounting provides only tax and accounting.

W3 Financial Group, LLC, W3 Wealth Advisors, LLC, and W3 Global Accounting are separate entities from Valmark Securities, Inc. and Valmark Advisers, Inc.

7 CENTENNIAL TOUR journey through Summit Metro Parks This year and earn a free commemorATive tag.

centennia

l tour

po cket guide

begin at summitmetroparks100.org 330-867-5511 | # SMP100

PAGES

APRIL 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 4

Pages start here

On The Cover

| 22 Pets | photo by Tylar Sutton

[ FEATURE ]

22

BY MY SIDE It’s been ruff.

Through isolation and loss, our pets have become our cherished companions that help us cope and be happy. Owners tell us what their pets mean to them.

Theo the border collie photo by Tylar Sutton

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akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

PAGES

12

14

40

INTERVIEW

AGENDA

UNTAPPED

Cleveland Cavalier Larry Nance Jr.

[ the essential social digest ]

Bearded Iris Brewery

[ DEPARTMENTS ]

08 MAIL BONDING

14 AGENDA [ the essential social digest ] 15 Entertainment listings

09 FROM THE PUBLISHER

+ Calendar of events

Can’t Wait

38 GOOD EATS

10 RADAR [ seen + heard ]

Special Sections 30 EDUCATION Art camp spotlight

[ notable food + drink ] 38 Restaurant listings 39 Uncorked:

Tribute wines

34 AMISH COUNTRY Experience three outdoor adventures.

40 Untapped:

Bearded Iris Brewing

11 UPFRONT New Pal

63 PARTING SHOT

43 CUYAHOGA FALLS Soak up fresh art, food and fun.

Canoeing at Portage Lakes

12 INTERVIEW Cleveland Cavalier Larry Nance Jr.

59 BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU OF AKRON Celebrating 101 years

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

7

PAGES MAIL BONDING SPRING 2021

Tell us what's on your mind.

A DESIGNER'S M ASTERPIECE

MARCH 2021

VOLUME 19

| ISSUE 3

Stir Craazy Mix up cookin

g at home

with local

ingredients

ALLISON SMITH'S BATH DREAM HOME photo by Allison Joy Smith

+ recipes

330 HOMES GET

A ZEN JAPANESEINSPIRED RETREAT

CULTIVATING THE JOY OF HYGGE

INSPIRE D

BY SIX A HISTORIC UNIQUE LANDMARK SHINES SPACES

TOP DENT ISTS 2021 BE ALERT HOW TO WATCH FOR COVID -19 SCAMS

Comments? Got something to say about an article you read in Akron Life?

Or maybe you want to tell us about something great happening in the area.

Send comments and suggestions to: Akron Life, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313, and please include your name and address.

Or email them to editor@bakermediagroup.com.

We reserve the right to edit letters for length and clarity.

S S GARDEN with VIGEO EDIBLE FLOWER E and Salad crafted LETTUC REENS, Tylar Sutton photo by

MICROG

HAVE AKRON, WILL TRAVEL

FOUNDER

Don Baker Jr. [ 1940-2018 ] PUBLISHER

Colin Baker cbaker@bakermediagroup.com C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

William L. Teckmyer III w teckmyer@bakermediagroup.com MANAGING EDITOR

Get Your Face In Our Magazine

Kelly Petryszyn kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com

Send us pics of yourself with a copy of Akron Life and end up on this page!

Images and descriptions can be sent to editor@bakermediagroup.com.

A S S I S TA N T E D I T O R

Alexandra Sobczak asobczak@bakermediagroup.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER

FEEDBACK FROM OUR READERS

Tylar Sutton tsut ton@bakermediagroup.com CO N T R I B U T I N G W R I T E R S

Aaron Fowler Mike McKenney PHOTOGR APHER

330 HOMES

SPRING 2021

A DESIGNER'S M ASTERPIECE

ALLISON SMITH'S BATH DREAM HOME photo by Allison Joy Smith

A ZEN JAPANESEINSPIRED RETREAT

CULTIVATING THE JOY OF HYGGE

A HISTORIC LANDMARK SHINES

Tylar Sutton SALES

Thank you so much for featuring my new home in the spring 2021 issue. Everything from the headline to the pictures chosen to the layout is well done! Vince did a great job on the article. I appreciate your help and input on this.

Bunny Lacey Steve Tyson Ben DiCola Roberto Almenar sales@bakermediagroup.com

The magazine is so well put together. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to showcase my work. Thank you for the opportunity to do just that.

circulation@bakermediagroup.com 330-253-0056, ext. 104

Don Cea Akron

C I R C U L AT I O N

PHOTOGR APHY INTERN

Ryanne Locker EDITORIAL INTERN

Wyatt Loy PEACE OUT RELAX AT LOCAL SALONS & SPAS

FACES OF THE 330

EASY FILE ANSWERS TO 2020 TAX QUESTIONS

VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 2

“LET FREEDOM RING”

LET FREEDOM RING

We just received our February Akron Life. Usually it is placed on the coffee table to be looked at sometime later. Not the case this time after looking at the content.

The 330 story of John Brown & how he helped end slavery

portrait of John Brown, John Brown house, The Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH photo by Tylar Sutton

We have lived in the area since graduating from Kent State University in the mid-‘60s, never thinking about the history.

This article was well-written.

Keep up the good work. This was a pleasure to read and will be passed on to friends, not the recycling bin. Very well done.

Fritz and Lynne Haas Stow

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APRIL 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 4

FEBRUARY 2021

akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

(ISSN No. 74 470 5787 1) akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313. Copyright 2021© by Baker Media Group, LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by an addressed envelope and sufficient postage.

Baker Media Group, LLC and akronlife accept no responsibility for unsolicited material. Subscription rates: Continental U.S., One year —$19.95, Two years —$34.95. Call for Alaska, Hawaii or international rates. Single issues available by calling the circulation department or visiting akronlife.com/store. $3.95 each plus $3.50 shipping & handling. Editorial, advertising and business offices: (330) 253-0056, fax (330) 253-5868.

PAGES FROM THE PUBLISHER

[ Publisher | Colin Baker | cbaker@bakermediagroup.com ]

Can’t Wait It’s finally time to start dreaming of a return to normal.

A year ago, when we were finishing up the April 2020 issue of Akron Life, it was the beginning of the lockdown that has changed our lives. Our office plan was to stay home for two weeks so that the coronavirus would pass, and then we could all get back to work. At that point, I had never really heard about Zoom and did not have much of a need to use it. Most of our meetings were face-to-face.

Here we are, a year later, and I have a light above my camera on my computer for my several Zoom conference calls each day. It seems normal to see the staff of Akron Life, with the backdrop of their living room or home office. One of our sales associates, Steve Tyson, has added the San Francisco cityscape to his Zoom background, which has inspired me to find my theme. So I have an amazing car garage full of classic Ferraris. Since owning this collection in real life seems far out of reach, having a virtual garage is about as close as I am going to get.

I recently have become eligible for the vaccine, as of press time, and I am excited to get it. Searching Summit County for a vaccine spot reminds me of when I tracked down a hard-to-find gaming console to buy for my kids many years back. At that time, I called every store asking clerks whether they had them and when their next shipment would be. Then I found out I had to rush out to Walmart in Green because they had three Nintendo Wiis left and no more shipments coming until after Christmas. I get the feeling that the skills I learned looking for those toys will help me find an open vaccination site.

CANAL PARK As I picture life after vaccinations and dream of things reopening, I think about all the things in The 330 that I hope to do soon. I’m looking forward to going to an Akron RubberDucks game and watching live baseball at Canal Park after the season opens May 4. Those warm summer nights watching baseball, with the sights and sounds of America’s pastime followed up by fireworks are high on my list. I want to go to concerts in Lock 3, even if it’s a Pink Floyd cover band — I will take it. I’m also looking forward to Akron Arts Expo at Hardesty Park, so that we can stroll around on a hot summer day, looking at local art and eating carnival food. My waistline looks most forward to that. Turn to pg. 34 to get excited about distanced outdoor adventures

in our Amish Country guide, and check out our guide with tons of fun new places and happenings in Cuyahoga Falls.

Akron Life always has a booth at the Arts Expo. It has been a great opportunity to meet our subscribers, and I miss those interactions. I am not sure what all will be back and in what time frame, but the dream of those simple get-togethers in everyday life keeps me going. I hope to see you all at a RubberDucks game soon.

[ Publisher Colin Baker is a retired racing driver and gearhead. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

9

PAGES RADAR

[ by Wyatt Loy ] seen + heard

MEET CLAWDIA

1 IN 2 MILLION That’s how rare blue lobsters like this one named Clawdia are due to a genetic anomaly that makes their shells blue. Coincidentally, this blue beauty was rescued from the Cuyahoga Falls Red Lobster after employees noticed her unique shell. She debuted at the Akron Zoo in February, so head to the Komodo Kingdom to see the crustacean in all of her blue majesty. akronzoo.org

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akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

GLASS OF SPARKLING Once Art of Sucre’s cotton candy glitter bombs are dropped into Champagne, they put on a show — like a liquid firework. You might recall Art of Sucre from our 2018 “Best of The City” cover, and now you can get edible glitter-packed bombs. Plus, Fairlawnbased Art of Sucre just started selling its cotton candy online in cheeky packages of fun flavors like watermelon or whiskey — let’s toast to that. artofsucre.com

3 NEW PAGE TURNERS “Akron’s Daily Miracle: Reporting the News in the Rubber City” edited by Deb Van Tassel Warner and Stuart Warner Get a beyondthe-fold look at the inner workings of a large city newsroom in this collection of essays by notable Akron Beacon Journal alums like best-selling authors Thrity Umrigar and Regina Brett. Discover the story behind the Pulitzer Prize-winning “A Question of Color” race relations series and learn what it means to be the largest U.S. city without a local TV station.

Released: Sept. 22, blogs.uakron. edu/uapress “Historic Barns of Ohio“

by Robert Kroeger There’s vanishing beauty in Ohio’s aging barns, and within their weathered wood lies tales spanning 19th-century extravagance to mysteries of a rich man’s abrupt disappearance. Alongside Kroeger’s majestic paintings of barns in all 88 of Ohio’s counties, find researched essays on each, including a red Summit County barn he traced back to a Revolutionary War drummer that’s now adorned with a flag painting and a message to “Buy American.” Released: March 22, arcadiapublishing.com “Pursuing John Brown: On the Trail of a Radical Abolitionist” by Joyce Dyer A Hudson resident of 40 years and Hiram College professor emerita follows in abolitionist John Brown’s Northeast Ohio footsteps — literally — to piece together his life’s story. With each step, her corresponding creative nonfiction brings us closer to the seminal figure who helped end slavery. Release: April, blogs. uakron.edu/uapress

PAGES UPFRONT

[ Managing Editor | Kelly Petryszyn | kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com ]

New Pal

by Carol Monaco

by Kelly Petryszyn

Having a pet companion adds so much love to your life.

BOGIE

SOPHIE Send me a friend, Bogie. That’s what my mother-in-law, Carol, whispered to her labradoodle as she was holding him, bawling and having to say goodbye to her family member of nearly 14 years this past summer.

I’ve never seen a family pet through till the end, and I finally realized why it hurt so much. They truly are a family member, living all the big and small moments of life by your side.

Just three days after losing Bogie, Carol’s preschool teaching assistant told her that she heard of a breeder with a new litter of goldendoodles.

Once Carol saw a picture of a pup with a little white chin, she fell in love. Sophie

would be theirs exactly a month after their family said goodbye to Bogie. Since then, having a puppy has been like medicine for Carol, bringing an immense amount of comfort and joy to their family.

“Because she’s another black doodle, I think of her not as a replacement for him but as his little sister,” Carol says. “She’s very loving.”

The therapeutic nature of pets has been especially huge this past year as many are isolated at home and pet adoptions and purchases are booming. So this year’s pets feature, “By My Side” on pg. 22 is about how pets got their owners through a tough time. Whether the challenges were working from home or losing a pet, our pets are such an incredible source of healing.

Boy, Sophie is her own dog. Raising an 8-week-old puppy is quite a different experience than getting Bogie when he was 6 months old. Sophie is such a wonderful bundle of high-spirited happiness, constantly ripping through the yard, rassling toys and barking to greet you. Their 17-year-old cat, Gracie, has even started to warm up to her… a little.

My husband, Tony, thinks of Bogie as his little brother who was there through the growing pains of adolescence, family trips to the Thousand Islands in New York and visiting the Kent State University campus during a new life chapter. He loved how Bogie would place his paw on someone to say he wanted attention.

But what’s familiar is the way she tugs at our heartstrings and makes us smile.

His parents took him everywhere, including their son, Tyler’s, soccer tournaments, where he would calmly sit on the sidelines, visiting with friends. Bogie was more than a pet to so many people.

at their new puppy, Sophie, as another Bogie.

“I like her because she is so little and spunky,” Tony says. “I like that she makes my parents so happy.”

The decision to get a pet, especially after a loss, is difficult, but it’s been a lifesaver during this pandemic. Tony and I have had our rescue cat, Tuna, for two years now. I’ve been working at home alone, and having another soul around has provided me the companionship I need — he snuggles in my lap as I work and I even talk to him.

It was hard to watch their family member’s health decline. Carol and her husband, Rick, were doing everything to help Bogie as he struggled with his footing, the stairs and going to the bathroom. They covered the floors of the house in 3-by-5 mats, made individualized containers of cod and mashed potatoes for his sensitive stomach and took the sofa cushions off so he could step up easily.

While Tony works out of the house, he enjoys coming home to Tuna and how he waits at the door and meows. He calls Tuna his child, and now we have our own pet family.

Tony and I visited during Bogie’s last days to say goodbye. When it was finally time to let go, Tony was broken up for weeks.

“It fills the hole in your heart,” she says.

“There’s always room in your heart for one more. There’s always more love.”

Being empty-nesters, Carol says she had thought she would get another dog but didn’t realize it would be so soon. She doesn’t look

Managing Editor Kelly Petryszyn is an adventure seeker, forever a dreamer and an avid supporter of #TeamFiona.

I hope you enjoy the heartwarming stories of pet companions in this issue. Carol encourages people to consider letting in a new four-legged friend.

[

]

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

11

INTERVIEW

[ by Kelly Petryszyn and photo provided by Larry Nance Jr.

]

Larry Nance Jr. Cavs player and philanthropist

Larry Nance Jr. is always game to help. The Cleveland Cavaliers power forward wanted to auction off jerseys to assist early in the pandemic but wasn’t sure where to direct the proceeds. Then a friend said, Things are really tough for not just me but for all of us that own small businesses. We’re not allowed to be open, but we still have to pay rent. It’s a mess.

Cleveland Cavaliers Andre Drummond and Larry Nance Jr.

“That’s why we went with small businesses. Everything’s so uncertain,” says the Akron area native and Revere High School grad. “I’m from here, and we wanted to do something cool to help give back.”

Nance asked fans to mail him swag from local businesses. During each of the Cavs’ 72 games this season, through May 16, he promotes a different business by wearing its swag and auctions jerseys worn by players. The proceeds are donated to the small business and matched

by Nance and the Cavaliers. More than halfway through, Nance has raised about $120,000 for businesses including Ann’s Pastry Shop in Wadsworth and Courtyard Cafe in Brecksville (where Nance has been going since he was a baby).

We spoke to Nance in February after he had surgery on a fractured finger, and he’s back on the court now. Even while healing, the resilient Cavs star, who also has Crohn’s disease, continues to raise up local businesses one by one.

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akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

What has it been like seeing your teammates and dad, former Cavs player Larry Nance Sr., get involved?

Larry Nance Jr.: It’s been fun seeing my teammates step up and donate their [jerseys] and doing one of my dad’s. … They’ve all expressed their support like, Hey, man, if there’s anything we can do — let us know. The fact that they’ve been so willing and generous to help benefit the community speaks volumes.

What’s feedback from the businesses been like?

LN: I do Zoom calls with them every morning before we wear their shirts and remain in contact. We’re definitely looking out for them. They really appreciate the recognition and support via social media and letting people know they’re there and

what they’re about. The relief funds have been very much appreciated. … Everybody that sent in apparel is doing good because every bit of apparel is going to the homeless shelters in Cleveland and Akron.

What has gotten you through your injury and the pandemic?

LN: My wife and my dogs have been unbelievable in helping me. I don’t have one full hand. Whether it’s getting out of bed — whatever it is — while I was recovering, they were huge during that time. My dad, my mom, my sister live here. I’ve been getting a little help from them and making sure I’m not just sitting here watching paint dry.

INTERVIEW

What has been your highlight of being on the Cavaliers?

LN: First and foremost, getting to go to the Finals to play on that stage with that team and LeBron [James] was something I will cherish and will never forget. That’s the goal of why we play and hopefully, we can make it back. I would say No. 2 would be getting to wear my dad’s jersey number. His number, 22, is retired by the Cavs, so they made a special exception allowing it to stay up but also let me wear it. Having Nance 22 in the rafters and having Nance Jr. 22 on the court is pretty cool.

What advice does your dad give you?

LN: We talk before and after every game.

We talk after practices. We talk on the way to the gym. You know, he’s my dad — we talk all the time whether it be about basketball or life stuff. I definitely listen to every word he has to say.

What advice do you give to the kids you meet through your Athletes vs. Crohn’s & Colitis foundation?

When life returns to normal after the pandemic, what are you looking forward to doing?

LN: The biggest thing is letting them know that despite having Crohn’s, despite having this chronic illness, there’s nothing you can’t do. I think in NBA history, I’m [one of ] the only that’s been here with Crohn’s disease. Everything is certainly possible. …

[Crohn’s is] not something you should be allowing to hold you down.

LN: Honestly, I am excited to go to the beach. That’s the biggest thing. I just want to find some warm weather and sit on the beach.

What’s stood out to you from your interactions with these kids?

LN: They get to ask me any kind of questions. It’s a hands-on experience of Look, these are some of the biggest, strongest, most athletic people on the planet. I’m going toeto-toe with the same thing that you’re battling with. When I was growing up, going through Crohn’s, diagnosis, treatment, all that, I wish I had gotten to meet and talk with somebody in my position. That’s why I’m here as support — to give back and let them know that it is possible.

Are you talking Lake Erie or going to an island?

LN: Oh, I mean, Miami would be great. LA would be great. One of those. I don’t know if I’m going to Edgewater.

[

Managing Editor Kelly Petryszyn is an adventure seeker, forever a dreamer and an avid supporter of #TeamFiona.

]

Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

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AGENDA

APRIL 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 4

Agenda the essential social digest

Stark Parks Get outside and explore more than 25 park locations. Visit the website for information on activities for you or the kids. starkparks.com

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akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

AGENDA

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS on akronlife.com or email asobczak@bakermediagroup.com.

NOTE: Dates, events, locations, times and prices are subject to change. Please call ahead.

Remote Akron Art Museum Explore the museum’s collections online.

Kiddos and those wanting to get creative can craft via video lessons. akronartmuseum.org/ at-home

Akron Civic Theatre The Civic has an assortment of live performances from all over with its Live Virtually portal. Check its Facebook every week for local musicians’ streams, events, stage shows and other performances. facebook.com/ akroncivic

Akron Soul Train View video profiles from past, current and future Soul Train artists-in-residence. facebook.com/akronsoultrain

Akron-Summit County Public Library Sit the kids down for regular storytimes with children’s librarians or various book talks via videos on its Facebook page. Books are available inside or for curbside pickup. facebook.com/akronlibrary

Akron Zoo Visit the zoo via Zoom to enjoy live keeper talks, animal encounters and presentations from local experts. akronzoo.org

The Americana Roundup Akron musician Ryan Humbert launched an online radio station, The Americana Roundup, which plays more than 3,000 songs he handpicked. The station plays all day and focuses on rock, country, folk and more. americanaroundup.com

ArtsInStark Check Facebook for videos with fun things to do at home including crafts and dance lessons, music performances and book readings. facebook.com/artsinstark

Apollo’s Fire Indulge in music, art and literature with the Music for the Soul video series from the Cleveland Baroque orchestra. The group posts past concert videos, interviews with people like the Grammy Award-winning conductor Jeannette Sorrell and related readings. See shows through a digital portal or socially distanced in person. apollosfire.org

Blu Jazz Jazz enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite tunes through livestreams on Blu’s Facebook page and continue to support local artists. facebook. com/blujazzakron

Canton History Canton museums got together to regularly provide online content via social media.

Engage in history lessons from the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum on Mondays, the Paul Brown Museum at the Massillon Museum on Tuesdays, the National First Ladies’ Library on Thursdays, the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Fridays and the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum on Saturdays. Visit each museum’s Facebook page for updates.

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APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

15

AGENDA

Magical Theatre Co.

Standing Rock Cultural Arts

The orchestra is offering fun ways to engage virtually. Watch mini concerts and learn about the issue of diversity in classical music during the “Orchestrating Change” podcast. cantonsymphony.org

The Barberton theater company is offering game nights and educational videos on its website. Children can also enjoy stories read by local theater veterans during Magical Storytime. magicaltheatre.org

Enjoy a podcast of “Arcade Cheezy Town,” a play written and performed by students in the New World Children’s Theatre based in Kent. standingrock.podbean.com

Cleveland Orchestra

Purchase tickets to rent movies online through the Akron art house cinema’s virtual screening room — you’ll have access to the films at nightlightcinema.com/virtual-screening-room.

Canton Symphony Orchestra

Connect with the orchestra via the streaming platform Adella to access new performances recorded in Severance Hall through the In Focus series, as well as the “On a Personal Note” podcast that’s about classical music. clevelandorchestra.com

Nightlight Cinema

Ohio Shakespeare Festival

Gage House Sessions Grab your favorite drink and enjoy an evening with local musicians via Gage House’s live sessions. Check out previous shows from artists including Madison Cummins and Ben Gage, who both make for evenings of soothing tunes. facebook.com/gagehousesessions

Jilly’s Music Room The Akron music venue is hosting select Streaming Saturdays on its YouTube channel.

Watch the livestreams and visit the online store to order dinner, tip the band, make a donation and buy merchandise. jillysmusicroom.com

Check out its new venture, Ohio Shakespeare Festival Radio Plays, in which the troupe adapts plays and short stories for livestreaming. facebook.com/ohioshakespeare

Radio on the Lake Theatre The Shaker Heights-based organization utilizes modern technology to connect with actors, directors and artists from throughout the country to perform and record radio plays. radioonthelaketheatre.org

Rubber City Theatre Dive into the world of online theater with its Shakespeare in the Living Room series in which professional actors perform Shakespearean works using props they found lying around their homes. facebook.com/rubbercitytheatre

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens The North American Reciprocal Museum Association is offering virtual tours of the first floor of the Manor House at Stan Hywet. Guests can tour the most impressive floor without leaving their homes. stanhywet.org

Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH Learn about historical figures on their birthdays, join virtual book talks, view artifacts and more on the Summit County Historical Society’s Facebook page. facebook.com/ summitcountyhistoricalsociety

Summit Metro Parks Explore many different topics, including animals, plants, different habitats and more, through virtual events. summitmetroparks.org

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akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

714 N. Portage Path Akron, OH 44303 330.836.5533

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AGENDA

Up Front Art Space This Cuyahoga Falls gallery is sharing photos and videos of artwork for sale to support local creatives. facebook.com/upfrontartspace

Virtual Jukebox Dance and sing along to videos made by local artists. You may have heard some of these 330 artists, like Jim Ballard, Shelby Olive and Adrian Labra on 90.7 and 91.3 Summit FM radio waves in the past. Check out the 50-plus videos to enjoy your favorites and discover new sounds. the330. net/virtual-jukebox

Wandering Aesthetics Theatre Go on this Akron troupe’s Facebook page for performance videos from members and fans — it could be play readings, poetry, comedy, puppets, dance or whatever else artists submit. facebook. com/watheatre

Weathervane Playhouse Sign up for virtual workshops and classes for all ages that focus on dancing, acting and more. Also check out short films on the theater’s YouTube channel. weathervaneplayhouse.com

Open Institutions Akron Art Museum The museum has reopened, allowing you to view art safely. 1 S. High St., Akron. Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., second Friday of each month 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. akronartmuseum.org

Cuyahoga Valley National Park Get outside, breathe fresh air and explore one of the many areas of the park. Check out its social media and website for upto-date info before visiting. nps.gov/cuva/ index.htm

Hale Farm & Village

Visit the zoo to see your favorite animals while social distancing. 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 11 a.m.4 p.m. Free members, $8 adults. akronzoo.org

Explore our area’s history by purchasing required timed tickets in advance. Masks are required.

Additional guidelines are available online. 2686 Oak Hill Road, Peninsula. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free members, $12 adults. wrhs.org

Canton Museum of Art

Kent State University Museum

With limited capacity and shorter hours, the museum welcomes visitors. The extra off-hours allow plenty of time for cleaning areas before, during and after opening. Timed tickets are available on the museum website. 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, for all on Thursdays and the first Friday, otherwise $8 nonmembers. cantonart.org.

View collections of historic fashion and textiles, and view work from modern designers and artists. Timed tickets are available on the museum website. 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students and staff and all on Sundays, $6 general public. kent.edu/museum

Akron Zoo

IS ON THE RISE IN OUR COMMUNITY. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployment has soared and food insecurity is on the rise.

please Donate today

akroncantonfoodbank.org/hfh

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

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AGENDA

Massillon Museum

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With the expertise of skillful designers and craftsmen, customers have peace of mind that their family monument will be produced and installed in the best manner possible.

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The museum provides a comfortable and safe venue for visitors. See exhibits like “Women of Resilience,” “Andrea Palagiano: Self-Conscious” and “Massillon’s Pro and Semi-Pro Teams, 1890-1926.” Masks and social distancing are required. 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org

McKinley Presidential Library & Museum The museum is open with limited hours. Each day between noon and 1 p.m., the building is closed to disinfect public spaces. Visitors can choose a morning or afternoon time to help maintain proper social distancing. Guests are not permitted to leave in the morning and come back in the afternoon. 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. TuesdaySaturday 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. $10 adults. mckinleymuseum.org

The National First Ladies’ Library The site’s Education Center is open Wednesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Saxton House remains closed. 205 S. Market Ave., Canton. Free. firstladies.org

Portage Parks

The Smart Home Experience You’ve Always Wanted

Get some fresh air by exploring 14 miles of hike and bike paths. Visit the website for a suggested calendar of remote outdoor activities to keep the kiddos engaged. portagecounty-oh.gov/portage-park-district

Pro Football Hall of Fame Explore Canton’s roots as the birthplace of the NFL. There are social distancing measures and occupancy restrictions.

The museum is giving out masks. 2121 George Halas Drive NW, Canton. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free members, $28 adults. profootballhof.com

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Showrooms Akron: 750 Howe Ave., Cuyahoga Falls | 330-923-5933 Cleveland: 28700 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood | 216-292-0300

With one touch — or even by voice! — dim the lights, stream high-resolution music, turn up the hear, lock the doors and arm the security system. Even check in and manage your home while you’re on the go.

Everything is better when it works together.

www.SOUNDANDVISIONOHIO.com 18

akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens All tours, including Manor House tours, are self-guided. Hours are Tuesday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. As with the entire estate, Molly’s Shop and Cafe is open with procedures in place to ensure social distancing. 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. Free members, $15 nonmembers. stanhywet.org

Stark Parks Get outside and explore more than 25 park locations. Visit the website for information on activities for you or the kids. starkparks.com

AGENDA

Summit Artspace Head to the Artspace to view its exhibits. 140 E. Market St., Akron. Saturdays 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Free. summitartspace.org

Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH Visit the Summit County Historical Society grounds for free during the day. 550 Copley Road, Akron. summithistory.org

Summit Metro Parks Head outdoors and soak up some natural vitamin D by exploring several scenic parks. Visit the website to find activities. summitmetroparks.org

Events Through 4/17 Countryside Curbside Farmers’ Market at Old Trail School Order local items like meats, grains, eggs, bread, baked goods and cheese online from 29 vendors.

Pickups are on select Saturdays. Old Trail School, 2315 Ira Road, Bath. 9 a.m.-noon. countrysidefoodandfarms.org

Through 4/25 “Myths and Monsters” Check out this exhibit that complements “Circe” by Madeline Miller.

Massillon Museum, Fred F. Silk Community Room Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon.

Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.com

Through 4/28 Downtown at Home For this take-and-make experience through the Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership, pick up a kit from Cuyahoga Falls businesses for a wide variety of meals and treats to enjoy. Downtown Cuyahoga Falls.

Prices and pickup times vary. downtowncf.com

Through 4/29 Planetarium Shows The planetarium reopens for shows on select dates included in museum admission. The Cosmic Kids show is for ages 3 and up, and the Universe at Large show is for ages 7 and up. McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, Hoover-Price Planetarium, 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. $10 adults. mckinleymuseum.org

Through 5/1 “Student Annual Juried Exhibition” Artwork by Kent State University School of Art majors, minors and graduate students is juried by a guest juror and on display. KSU Downtown Gallery, 141 E. Main St., Kent. Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. kent.edu/ galleries

Through 5/16 “Fortuna: Designs

by Vincent Quevedo” The Kent State University Museum features an exhibit by awardwinning designer and associate professor Vincent Quevedo that references the goddess of luck and fate. Tickets must be purchased in advance online. Kent State University Museum, Higbee Gallery, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday 12-4 p.m. Free, students and staff and all on Sundays, $6 general public. kent.edu/museum

Through 5/23 “Women of Resilience” This exhibit features the work of 25 female artists in various mediums, focusing on ideas such as personal empowerment, overcoming barriers and more. Massillon Museum, Aultman Health Foundation Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. TuesdaySaturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.com

Through 7/3 “Massillon’s Pro and Semi-Pro Teams, 1890-1926” Visit the Paul Brown Museum within the Massillon Museum to see photos and learn info about various local football teams throughout the years. Massillon Museum, Paul Brown Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.com

Through 7/3 “Play Like a Girl: Massillon Women’s Tiger Teams from Gym Class to Title IX” Head to the Paul Brown Museum at the Massillon Museum to see this new exhibit about the history of women’s sports in Massillon. Massillon Museum, Paul Brown Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.com

Through 12/19 “Stitched: Regional Dress Across Europe” The Kent State University Museum features an exhibit that showcases regional costumes across Europe, highlighting what the pieces have in common rather than the original context, which marked social differences. Purchase tickets in advance online. Kent State University Museum, Stager and Blum Galleries, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students and staff and all on Sundays, $6 general public. kent. edu/museum

4/2 Adult Egg Hunt Join this adults-only egg hunt for prizes and adult beverages. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 6-9 p.m. $16 members, $21 nonmembers. akronzoo.org 4/2-4/30 Lunchtime Yoga Inperson yoga classes resume on select dates, led by Leslie Schneider. All skill levels are welcome. Massillon Museum, 21 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 12:30-1:15 p.m. $6 per class or $15 for three classes. massillonmuseum.org

4/3 Easter Breakfast and Egg Hunt Head to Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens for an egg hunt for children up to 9 years old and a visit with the Easter bunny. Also enjoy a breakfast and a self-guided tour of the grounds. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 9-11 a.m. $8-$14 egg hunt only, $20-$27 breakfast and egg hunt. stanhywet.org

4/3 Egg-stra Wild Egg Hunt Search for eggs and get a bag of treats at the Akron Zoo. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron.

9:30-11 a.m. $5 adult member, $10 adult nonmember. akronzoo.org

4/3-4/25 “Andrea Palagiano: Self-Conscious” This exhibit of paintings focuses on the ideas of social conformity and self-identity. Massillon Museum, Studio M Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.com

4/7 Cucina Demo: Pasta Class Learn how to make chicken tortellini soup, pea agnolotti stuffed with ricotta and fresh tagliatelle with traditional bolognaise sauce at Gervasi Vineyard’s Cucina, led by chef Jerry Risner. Sample them with a glass of wine and take home the recipes so that you can re-create the dishes. Gervasi Vineyard, the Villa Grande ballroom, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 6-8 p.m. $59. gervasivineyard.com

4/7 Mixed Media Spring Break Camp Children ages 7 to 14 can enjoy this Akron ArtWorks camp to experiment with printmaking, T-shirt design and collage. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 8 a.m.5:30 p.m. $35. akronartworks.com

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4/8 Fantasy Art Spring Break Camp Children ages 6 to 14 can participate in this Akron ArtWorks camp to draw and paint fantasy creatures, potions, maps and 3D monsters. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. $35. akronartworks.com

4/8 Coffee with the Collection: Help Us Tell Better Stories about Art Join this virtual discussion to give feedback on how the Akron Art Museum will share art from its collection in the future.

10-11 a.m. Free members, $5 nonmembers. akronartmuseum.org

4/9 & 4/10 Blu Release and Tasting Event Attend this tasting event to experience Gervasi Vineyard’s new blueberry liqueur, Blu. Try it alone, in a mojito and topping affogato of lemon sorbet. Snacks are provided. Gervasi Vineyard, the Villa Grande ballroom, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton.

4/9 6-7 p.m. and 4/10 1-2 p.m. or 3-4 p.m. $29. gervasivineyard.com

4/9-6/26 “The Art of Y” The Akron Area YMCA celebrates its 150th anniversary by partnering with Summit Artspace for an exhibit in which community members created pieces of art that include the letter “Y” to tell their own stories. View virtually or in person.

Summit Artspace, Main Gallery, 140 E. Market St., Akron. Saturdays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. summitartspace.org

4/10 Hartville Sports Card Show Head this show to see 30 vendors’ sports cards, autographs and more.

Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. hartvillemarketplace.com

4/10-7/3 “Mort Künstler: ‘The Godfather’ Of Pulp Fiction Illustrators” This exhibit features more than 70 original drawings and paintings first seen on magazines and paperbacks in the ‘50s and ‘60s. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave., Canton. Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, $8 adult nonmembers. cantonart.org

4/10-7/3 “We’ve Got Issues: Myra Schuetter Watercolors” View these large watercolor paintings based on realism and complex still life. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave., Canton.

Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, $8 nonmembers. cantonart.org

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4/12 “Celebration: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons — rediscovered” Listen as

4/22 NEA Big Read Keynote with Madeline Miller Through this

the Cleveland Baroque orchestra Apollo’s Fire presents Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” with some surprises. Enjoy socially distanced in person or virtually. Bath Church United Church of Christ, 3980 W. Bath Road, Akron. 7:30 p.m. $10-$70. apollosfire.org

National Endowment of the Arts program, the Massillon Museum has many events focused on “Circe,” by Madeline Miller. Listen to this live virtual talk with the author on MCTV channels 21 and 621 or on the museum’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. 7-8 p.m.

Free. massillonmuseum.org

4/15 AAM After Work: Art and Poetry Wick Poetry Center’s director David Hassler leads this virtual workshop to help people of all ages write poems inspired by art from the Akron Art Museum. 6:30-8 p.m. Free members, $5 per nonmember household. akronartmuseum. org

4/15 Dancing Conversations: Music & Dance As a part of National Center for Choreography Akron’s fifth anniversary, it is hosting virtual panel discussions, dance clubs and lunchtime conversations about current dance topics.

At this music and dance conversation, guest speakers John Heginbotham and Colin Jacobsen provide insight. 7 p.m. Free. nccakron.org

4/16 Wildflower Hike Learn about local wildflowers on a walk at Silver Creek Metro Park, led by a naturalist. Silver Creek Metro Park, Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Road, Norton. 6-7:30 p.m.summitmetroparks.org

4/17 Hartville Coin Show Browse vintage and new coins, paper currency and more. Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Free. hartvillemarketplace.com 4/18 Chocolate Wine Pairing Enjoy rich chocolate desserts like chocolate-dipped strawberries, Gervasi Vineyard chocolate, white chocolate raspberry mousse and dark chocolate cheesecake with award-winning wines. Gervasi Vineyard, the Villa Grande ballroom, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 3-4 p.m. $34. gervasivineyard.com 4/20 Bassist Edgar Meyer Tuesday Musical’s concert features bassist Edgar Meyer playing Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1 and Meyer’s own work. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. Season subscription $184. tuesdaymusical. org 4/21 Cucina Demo: Nonna’s Favorites Learn how to make polpette (meatballs) in red sauce with arugula and mozzarella, braciola with linguine and mushrooms and lemon ricotta cake with blueberries at Gervasi Vineyard’s Cucina, led by chef Jerry Risner. Sample them with a glass of wine and take home the recipes so that you can re-create the dishes. Gervasi Vineyard, the Villa Grande ballroom, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 6-8 p.m. $59. gervasivineyard.com

BROWN of PAUL y courtes photo Football the Pro Fame Hall of

4/22 The Battle of Franklin and the Unsung Hero of the Union, Jacob Dolson Cox Author Gene Schmiel gives this Zoom presentation as a part of the Peninsula Foundation’s Civil War lecture series. 7 p.m. Free. peninsulahistory.org

4/22-4/24 Party for the Planet Visit the Akron Zoo for a build-your-ownadventure game in celebration of Earth Day. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. akronzoo.org

4/24 Bee Crafty Shop for handmade and handcrafted items for yourself, friends and family. Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. hartvillemarketplace.com 4/24-5/2 All City Art Walk The sixth annual Cuyahoga Falls City Schools art walk, put on by the Cuyahoga Valley Art Center, is on display for a week. cfallsartwalk. weebly.com

4/27 Primavera: Spring Wine Dinner Feast on a five-course meal including crispy pork wings, spinach and warm goat cheese salad, shrimp wrapped in prosciutto, roasted lamb rack and lemon chiffon cake with pistachio brittle. Pair each with Gervasi Vineyard’s award-winning wine. Gervasi Vineyard, the Villa Grande ballroom, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 6 p.m. $90. gervasivineyard.com

4/28 Symphony Uncorked with Brian Klickman Enjoy a glass of wine and a bruschetta trio while listening to Canton Symphony Orchestra cellist Brian Klickman perform and share about his life as a musician. The menu includes classic tomato with mozzarella and basil pesto, balsamic onions with blue cheese and mushroom with black peppercorn goat cheese. Gervasi Vineyard, the Villa Grande ballroom, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 6-7 p.m. $39. gervasivineyard. com

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PETS

By My Side It’s been ruff.

Through isolation and loss, our pets have become our cherished companions that help us cope and be happy. Owners share what their pets mean to them.

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PETS

Meghan and Theo

THEO Love That Bark It had been seven years since Meghan Froehlich had a border collie, but as she traveled for her job, four-legged friends kept popping up on sidewalks.

“Whether I was in the middle of Manhattan [or] Albuquerque, there’s a border collie I get to visit with,” says the Akron resident who previously owned two border collies.

photos by Tylar Sutton

9-year-old border collie on the website for Maggie’s Mission in Sharon Center, and it was love at first sight. The dog she named Theo was underweight and emotionally withdrawn, needing a foster parent to oversee his severe heartworm treatment. Although she wasn’t certain he would survive, she took him in anyway.

Thankfully, with the help of One of a Kind Pet Rescue Spay & Neuter Clinic and Highland Veterinary Clinic, Theo is healthy. Froehlich adopted him and once again has a beloved border collie in her life. She reflects on their journey.

Froehlich loves the intelligent breed, but her travels as an Episcopal priest for the presiding bishop made owning a dog difficult until she was grounded during the pandemic.

“The first time I met him, I In August, she saw an adorable thought, Oh, I would so love to

be his person. He was sweet, he was friendly, he was curious. He was bashful and shy because of his circumstance. I immediately felt drawn to him.

I had to be his caregiver, helping him not do anything that would be at risk for his heart and lungs.

I’m so glad he healed.

For about six months, he didn’t bark. Then, one day we were playing in the yard. He’s wagging his little nubbin tail, and he’s dancing. He barked and was like, Is that OK? I said, Good boy, Theo. He barked again, Woof!

And then another big, beautiful baritone, gorgeous bark. I almost cried. I was so happy he found his voice.

Through the winter, I would have not been outside every day, multiple times a day if it were not for him. That’s good for me — to have his charming encouragement to say, It’s time to go out.

I feel more like myself when I have a dog. To have someone else in the house that you care for and that cares for you is a really different dynamic as a solo person, especially in the pandemic.

Just to have somebody in person — a furry, sweet dog companion is life-changing. I’m ridiculously in love.”

— as told to Kelly Petryszyn

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PETS Sloane, Frankie, Lily and Turtle

FRANKIE TURTLE Kitten Duty photo by Ryanne Locker Sloane Burgess has heard over 100 different meows in her Aurora home since she began fostering kittens over two years ago.

Turtle and Frankie, who have a bilateral nostril deformity, a twisted sternum and only one eye, respectively.

[Daxx is] so sweet and kind, and so loving with these kittens. … And most of the kittens love him too.

When Burgess spoke to us, they also had six foster kittens and their mother. She describes what it means to raise all those fur babies.

Something that I was concerned about when we started [was] that it would be really heartbreaking to take kittens back. … It can be, but one of the things that makes it better is remembering that we’ve done our part, and now they’re going to a good home.

Burgess, an associate professor at Kent State University, and her two daughters, Lily and Catie, care for kittens, and occasionally adult cats, for two “The largest number [of fosters] we’ve had at a time is nine. weeks to four months through the Humane Society of Summit We had a designated kitten room.

County. “We really like ani…

Within a couple of weeks, mals,” Burgess says. they’re all using their litter box.

So we just started making them That might be an understatepart of our home. ment: They have a Dutch shepherd mix, Daxx, a 16-year-old We train the kittens to come when cat, Twinkles, and three cats we call. … At nighttime, we they fostered but just couldn’t would tuck them all in and make send back — Cindy Lou, sure they’re in the kitten room.

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How would we describe what our fosters mean to us? My daughter says, Everything. My husband and son enjoy the kittens, but it’s not really their thing. The three of us will say, This is the best thing that we’ve ever done. It feels so rewarding. … We feel like we’re doing something useful. But

we get so much out of it.

We’re with them when they’re the absolute cutest, and they have these little blue eyes just peeping up at you. Their little meows are just so adorable.

You watch them the first time they’re on steps, and they’re tumbling down. And three days later, they’re tearing up and down the stairs. It’s just amazing how quickly they grow.

We’re always excited for what’s coming next and what they’re going to do.

We have no plans to stop.”

— as told to Alexandra Sobczak

PETS

Follow Your Heart

photos by Tylar Sutton

Baccaire named her Kona and Melissa Baccaire was adopted her instantly. After heartbroken after losing nine years with Koko, she Koko, her Great Pyrenees is delighted to have another mix this January. Only five Pyrenees, helping her through days after, she happened her grief and the pandemic. into One of a Kind Pet She shares how both dogs have Rescue and was surprised impacted her. to see a Great Pyrenees mix “We were inseparable. [Koko] was pup with a lot of heart.

“We saw this little heart on the side of her abdomen, made from her fur,” says the Bath resident and Cloverleaf Middle School teacher. “I certainly wasn’t ready, but I couldn’t deny the signs. Her sweet little eyes reminded me of Koko.”

there for every milestone. She helped me through a lot of health issues, and she was the flower girl at my wedding.

We would hike multiple times a week. She would go for miles and miles because she was a mountain dog.

I noticed she was coughing, and she wasn’t acting like herself. I

made an appointment with the vet. I was told that she needed to be put down immediately, that she had a tumor on her heart.

I took the next day … to give her all of her favorite treats and spend that final day cherishing her. That happened very suddenly.

I was in a deep depression.

I had the idea to go in [One of a Kind] to be happier and be around dogs. … We saw a Great Pyrenees mix. It’s very rare to find them in shelters. ... My mom and I looked at each other and were like, Oh my goodness, that has to be Koko. She had to have a hand in this. Hours later we went home with her.

She’s met my siblings’ dogs who we often hike with. We’re kind of rebuilding the pack.

When you have a stressful day, especially teaching through this, it’s coming home to that therapy.

Kona is a reason to be happy. …

She’s very, very affectionate.

I encourage people if you have lost an animal to not wait. [Do] not let grief hold you back from doing something that’s gonna make you happy and bring positivity to this crazy time.

Give another animal a chance to open up your heart.”

— as told to Wyatt Loy

Kona and Melissa

KONA

Melissa and Koko photo provided by Melissa Baccaire APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

25

PETS photos by Tylar Sutton

The Guardian “He wasn’t only my dog, but he One day in 2012, Julia was like my little protector.

Nemeth returned home to discover the unthinkWhen your dog goes missable — her 2-year-old pit ing, it’s the dark things that come into your brain because bull terrier mix, Junior, you don’t understand what was missing. Sadly, he happened. was taken during a home invasion. Three months Scrolling through the pictures, later, a glimmer of hope I started bawling. I started came when she found him telling [my husband, Finley], I can’t believe I found my dog. listed on Craigslist and I called the shelter I want to messaged the seller. She never received a response, say 30 times. but she didn’t give up. For He smelled me and … I got pummeled by his big head and years, she combed shelter slobbers. websites and posted his picture online.

He’s still a big lug.

“The unknown is what drove me to continue because they’re not pets — they’re family,” the Barberton resident says. “Just knowing he was safe was the biggest thing.”

A breakthrough came in 2019 when she saw a dog that looked like Junior on the Humane Society of Summit County’s website.

She called, but another family had adopted him.

Junior was adopted three times over the years, but none of those owners was the right fit. In December 2020, Nemeth saw him on the society’s site again and called. She received the best early holiday present: He was available!

Now, Junior happily lives with Nemeth, her husband, four children and German shepherd. She recounts what it was like reuniting with Junior after eight years apart.

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He’s phenomenal with [the kids]. They’ll pet his ears or pat his face. He absolutely adores every moment.

He’s still very protective over me. … Even now if somebody were to raise a fist to me, he barks. He will sit or lay at my legs and has to face the door.

He’s always by my side. …

With the crap I went through as a teenager and growing up, I have a thing with depression.

If I get upset or sad, he licks my face. It’s his loving side.

We get forced into playing a game of tug of war even if I don’t want to. Then I feel better. It gets it out of my system.

If I feel like I have to curl up in bed, he curls up with me: Let’s ride this out together.”

— as told to Kelly Petryszyn

Julia and Junior

JUNIOR

PETS

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APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

27

PETS

Rookie and Alexis

ROOKIE In The Family Kelly Breen’s family pulled out the stops to celebrate a first birthday and first Christmas — for their new baby, a beagle mix puppy named Rookie.

The rescue from Second Chance for Animals in Canton gets the treatment of a fullfledged family member, including Ben & Jerry’s doggy ice cream for his birthday and a red vest to wear on Christmas.

photos by Tylar Sutton

dog,” Breen explained in an email. “Putting him down was one of the hardest things.”

But last March, Breen’s daughter, Alexis, was sad about missing her senior year. She and her brother, Jacob, convinced their parents they needed a new dog.

Breen and her husband, Gary, surprised them with Rookie last April. He goes on family walks and to Jacob’s baseball tournaments, where he wears a little backpack filled with his treats.

He spends time with Breen while she works from home as a data analyst. She shares how he completes their family.

The festivities followed a tough time. In 2018, the Willowick family had to put down Dakota, a rescue beagle mix they had for over 14 years. “We swore “We walked in. My daughter was we would never have another just sitting doing a puzzle in the

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middle of the floor. … She was so excited that she ran up and grabbed him right away. She busted out in tears. … You know, just something exciting during all this time that she was losing out on so much.

He gave her something to look forward to. She loves taking him for walks. … He’s given her comfort.

He’s given her a buddy.

Even my son was taking him to his baseball games and showing him off. All of his friends loved him. … He was almost like the team mascot. He loved all the boys.

[Gary] loves him. He tries to act tough, but he’s giving him treats or cuddling him or talking to

him and playing with him when I’m not looking. They used to nap together when Rookie was real small.

He’s very attached to us. … He goes everywhere with us.

He’s just like another kid to me.

Honestly, it’s almost like I can’t remember life without him. We spent almost the last entire year together every single day. So it’s almost like he’s always just been a part of the family.

He’s just another one of us.”

— as told to Alexandra Sobczak

PETS

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29

EDUCATION

[ by Wyatt Loy, photos by Rachel Peltzman ]

Camp Spotlight A 3D sculpture camp takes creativity to the next level.

Learning art typically starts with putting a few brushstrokes or pencil marks on a 2D page to make an image. But possibility really opens up when you conquer new mediums — molding clay, folding paper, twisting wire — to create art objects in another dimension.

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EDUCATION

From June 21 to 25 and July 19 to 23, kids and young teens can explore exciting next-level artwork at the 3D Sculpture Art summer camp at Akron ArtWorks.

Participants use familiar materials like clay and cardboard, and new ones in techniques like bookbinding and wire art.

Learning new skills and creating something special can be great for self-esteem.

“There’s something to be said about how confidence can come from making art,” says Micah Beree, ArtWorks co-owner and camp instructor. “Confidence in your art translates to a willingness to try new things, and that’s what we try to teach.”

Mornings consist of art activities in line with that day’s theme, while afternoons consist of open and structured projects led by instructors. The goal of each project is to let kids explore various mediums but still end up with a finished piece they can take home.

Beree says that instead of making campers follow a step-by-step guide to craft something specific, he leads them to explore within the medium.

“Some kids are used to being told, We’re going to paint flowers today. Our studio is not like that. It’s, Let’s make a structure today. What if we were to make a castle or a fairy house? What are some of the characteristics of the castle?”

Are you ready for a fun-filled summer?

BASKETBALL FOOTBALL VOLLEYBALL TENNIS LACROSSE SOCCER DRAMA

CVCA offers summer camps for children ages 7-16. Led by CVCA coaches and varsity athletes, campers enjoy learning new skills and making new friends in a Christ-centered environment. The registration deadline is May 29, 2021. Space is limited, so register early!

Register at cvcaroyals.org/summer-camps 4687 WYOGA LAKE RD • CUYAHOGA FALLS, OH 44223 • CVCAROYALS.ORG 32

akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

3D art opens up new perspectives and channels of expression as kids manipulate things with their hands.

“The idea is trying to challenge [kids] into thinking about the world in a different

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EDUCATION

way,” Beree says. “It is trying to look at the world through an artist’s eyes and saying, Hey, how can I change that thing into something else? And once I’ve changed it into something else, that makes it mine and that makes it art.”

Half, full or extended day sessions available, COVID-19 guidelines followed, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-983-9983, akronartworks.com

[

Wyatt Loy is a junior journalism major and political science minor at Kent State University.

]

Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

33

AMISH COUNTRY

[ by Wyatt Loy, Kelly Petryszyn and Alexandra Sobczak ]

Adventure Time

photos provided by Eric Guggisberg

Whether it’s hiking, horseback riding or rafting, excitement awaits in Amish Country.

TAIL SPIN “We can pretty much tell right The horses take riders over a When newbies return, Eric Guggisberg has been away what a person is going to high ridge, around a historic Guggisberg can often tell the around horses his whole need as far as a horse goes,” says cemetery, through the woods horses made a positive impact. life and understands their Guggisberg, who also runs the and over a few rolling hills, so language. The self-proon-site Guggisberg Swiss Inn and they can really soak up the mag- “They can be therapeutic,” he claimed “horse whisperer” says. “There’s just something nearby Doughty Glen Winery. nificence of the Doughty Valley. and owner of Amish about an animal that is that Country Riding Stables That intuition is key, as he often From Guggisberg’s favorite point majestic and yet serves man.” has gotten to know the encounters nervous people who — the hilltop overlooking the Opens May 1, 5025 state have never ridden a horse. He demeanors and personvalley — riders can sometimes Route 557, Millersburg, 330assigns them a gentle, self-suffisee Amish farmers working alities of his foundation 893-3600, amishcountryridquarter horses — it’s all in cient horse that will take control. and some of Guggisberg’s other ingstables.com horses grazing. their ears and tails — so “We have a couple of horses that that he can match any are absolute babysitters,” he says. “There are some views that are 8-to-70-year-old rider to “They can sense a person that is absolutely breathtaking,” he says. the right horse. petrified. They’ll take really good “A lot of the folks in the city aren’t care of them, especially kids.” used to being out in the country.”

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akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

photos provided by Eric Guggisberg

AMISH COUNTRY

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

35

AMISH COUNTRY

During a family rafting trip down the Mohican River, relax, get tan and take a swim — the makings of a perfect summer day — all while immersing yourself in nature.

“You’re gonna be surrounded by the birds chirping,” says Vanessa Byers, the marketing director at Mohican Adventures campground and fun center in Loudonville.

“You’re seeing the trees around you and then the river ahead of you and behind you.”

The 7-mile rafting trips accommodate three to six people on the “mild, slow-flowing river.” There’s no rush, so feel free to stop at riverside concession stands and take breaks from paddling.

“The river itself kind of takes you,” Byers says. “So you don’t really have to use your strength.”

NATURE REEL

“Through the woods, you’re going to see a lot of squirrels and animals,” says Carole Van Pelt, a park commissioner. “It’s a very mature woods.”

The water and lush vegetation attract abundant wildlife, including otters, frogs, turtles and ducks. Get a bird’s-eye view of wildlife and the pond from

36

akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

Tubing makes for another relaxing float down the river. If you’re looking for more of a workout, try the 7- or 15-mile canoeing and kayaking routes that require more paddling. The 15-mile trip makes for a long day on a quieter stretch of river.

Whichever vessel you choose, don’t forget to bring sunscreen and water shoes for a dip in the cool river.

“It’s refreshing to be able to hop out of your boat and swim a little,” she says. “The sun is always shining through.”

Opens May 15, 3045 state Route 3 S, Loudonville, 419-994-4097, mohicanadventures.com

the wheelchair-accessible observation deck. Van Pelt says the best time to visit is spring.

“It’d be during the annual breeding season from March to May to listen to the spring peepers,” she says, adding that fall and summer are great too. “The leaves are just beautiful, and the squirrels are skittering around.

In the summer, you have the monarchs and the bluebirds.”

The preserve is popular with birders. “Someone counted over 123 species of birds last summer, which is a lot for one area,” Van Pelt says. “We’ve become a birding paradise.” The best place to spot bluebirds is near Van Pelt’s favorite part of the the farmland neighboring the preserve is the observation deck. preserve, where they nest in 21 “It’s the most serene,” she says. birdhouses.

“You could just sit there and

photos provided by Barnes Preserve

At the Barnes Preserve in Wooster, nature’s beauty is available to all. Find nearly a mile of paved trails, a deck and a pavilion that comply with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, along with a meadow filled with native flowering plants and a wetland pond.

Rafting makes for a casual day trip or a great way to mark a

special occasion. When Byers’ best friend got married, they went rafting for the bachelorette party. “It was so much fun because we were soaking in the sun, and we got to lay back and talk to each other and relax the whole way,” she says. “It’s just really good quality time.”

photos provided by Mohican Adventures

DRIFT ON

read a book or eat lunch.”

3396 Sylvan Road, Wooster, waynecountyparkdistrict.org

photos provided by Barnes Preserve

SPONSORED CONTENT

Find a Simpler Life at Lehman’s

Visiting Lehman’s is like going to a museum and going shopping at the same time. Antiques line the walls of the rambling store, and four pre-Civil War era buildings house merchandise for gardening, food preservation, off-grid living and fun (think puzzles and board games, over 70 types of root beer and a charming in-store cafe).

Lehman’s is often considered the gateway to Amish Country and is open every day except Sunday.

4779 Kidron Drive, Kidron 800-438-5346 lehmans.com

Lehman’s is your source for everything you need to live the simpler life. Whether you live without electricity, are preparing for a power outage, or want to learn a new skill, we can help.

«

The Charles Follis Trail, a driving tour named after the famous Wooster resident and first Black professional football player in the country, is set to launch this summer. It will feature 12 plaques that tell the story of the pre-NFL Shelby Blues player at key locations in Shelby and Wooster, such as Follis’ childhood home, the original Wooster University football field, the Follis family headstone in Wooster Cemetery and the original Wooster High School football field where he earned his “Black Cyclone” nickname. blackcyclone.org

FOR A SIMPLER LIFE

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COMING SOON

Why do thousands of people flock to the tiny town of Kidron, Ohio, to visit Lehman’s? This old-time general store draws people from all over the world — as evidenced by the wall signings, which recently included visitors from Japan, Scotland, Germany and Ukraine.

“We are here to provide a simpler life for folks,” says Galen Lehman, the president of Lehman’s and the son of founder Jay Lehman.

“We are about relationships, like making dinner with your children, and products that are sustainable and understandable. A simpler life should be satisfying and feed your soul — it’s the opposite of a stressful, anxious life.”

On the Square in Kidron, OH Open every day except Sunday

LET’S BE SOCIAL @lehmanshardware

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

37

GOOD EATS

APRIL 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 4

Restaurants [ notable food & drink ]

B Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner A Alcohol available T Takeout available V Valet parking W Wheelchair Accessible $ average entrees less than $6 $$ average entrees between $6-$10 $$$ average entrees between $11-$16 $$$$ average entrees are $17 or higher Information subject to change.

Please call ahead to verify location, hours and events.

Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices. 250 W. Market St., Akron, 330-376-0600 $$ B, L, D, T, W Aladdin’s Eatery Outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St., Akron, 330-535-0110; 1991 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-4640; 44 Park Lane, Hudson 330-656-0560; 3895 Medina Road, Fairlawn, 330-665-3102 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Al’s Corner Restaurant Old World comfort food served cafeteria style. Cabbage rolls and sausage made locally are a favorite. 155 Second St. NW, Barberton, 330-475-7978 $$ L, T, W Alexander Pierce Fine dining menu of steaks and house-made pastas includes calamari misto and cavatelli alla vodka in an intimate speakeasystyle atmosphere. 797 E. Market St., Akron, 330-529-2003 $$$ D, A Arnie’s West Branch Steak House Casual dining, specializing in steak, ribs and seafood. 5343 state Route 14, Ravenna, 330-297-1717 $$$ D, A, T Barley House Hot and cold deli sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, soups and more. 222 S. Main St., Akron, 330-374-0925 $$ L, D, A, T, W Basil Asian Bistro Menu features Thai, Chinese and Korean dishes, as well as sushi and Vietnamese specialties.

585 Market Ave. N, Canton, 330-4523888 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn. 3180 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-867-5218 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Beau’s on the River Stunning views of the falls with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary decor. Fusion 38

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eclectic cuisine, lunch buffet and Sun. brunch. Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-920-7530 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Big Eu’es BBQ Known for delicious barbecue meals and Kool Aid pies.

The takeout spot also has a small dining area. 1730 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-706-6700 $$ L, D, T Big Eye Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar Menu offers a variety of sushi as well as salads, soups, appetizers, cooked entrees and vegan options to suit everyone at your table. 2965 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-836-4433 $$$ L, D, A, T, W The Bistro at Gervasi Vineyard Situated on a 55-acre estate in a renovated historic barn that overlooks a beautiful lake. Serving rustic Italian fare using only fresh and seasonal ingredients. 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330-497-1000 $$$ L, D, A Bistro on Main House-made desserts, hand-cut steaks and fresh pasta.

1313 W. Main St., Kent, 330-673-9900 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Block 7 Bar & Grill Fresh-ground burgers, unique sandwiches, onion rings and more. 524 W. Tuscarawas St., Barberton, 330-745-7677 $$ L, D, A, T, W Blue Canyon Kitchen & Tavern Creative American cuisine in six natureinspired dining environments. Sun. brunch buffet. 8960 Wilcox Drive, Twinsburg, 330-486-2583 $$$$ L, D, A, T, W Blue Door Cafe & Bakery Chef-driven sandwiches, quiche, soups, crepes, house-made pastries and rotating specials made using local ingredients. Voted No. 1 brunch in Ohio. Drive-thru available. 1970 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-926-9774 $$$ B, L, T, A Berlin Farmstead Enjoy regionallyinspired and homestyle meals including the all-you-can-eat Barn Raising Buffet with mashed potatoes and a salad bar. 4757 Township Road 366, Berlin, 330-893-4600 $$ B, L, D, W, T Blu Plate Fine Southern-inspired fare in the Blu Jazz club with dinner and show packages available. 45 E.

Market St., Akron, 330-252-1190 $$$ D, W, A, T Bob’s Hamburg Classic family diner with affordable favorites such as the BBQ Bonanza burger. 1351 East Ave., Akron, 330-253-2627 $ B, L, D, W, T Boiling House Authentic Louisiana seafood boils with king crab legs and lobster tail. A unique sushi menu diversifies the offerings. 1 W. Exchange St., Akron, 234-571-9692 $$$$ L, D, T Bricco in Kent Menu is modeled after the original Bricco in downtown Akron. À la carte brunch on Sun. 210 S. Depeyster St., Kent, 330-677-1335 $$$ L, D, A, T Brick Oven Brew Pub Handcrafted traditional, deep-dish, specialty and dessert pizzas, calzones, appetizers, salads and nano-brewed beer. 604 Canton Road, Akron, 330-475-7005 $$ D, A, T Brew Wall Sample a vast amount of pour-it-yourself beers and wines while you nosh on wood-fired pizza and sandwiches from the crew behind Antonio’s Pizza. 3161 Heritage Drive, Copley, 330-576-6880 $$$ L, D, A, W, T Burntwood Tavern Owned by the same couple that runs the other Burntwood locations in Rocky River, Brecksville, Chagrin Falls and Solon, this restaurant’s menu features steaks, sliders, hand-cut fries, smoked, planked and woodgrilled food. 2291 Riverfront Parkway, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-794-7085 burntwoodtavern.com $$$$ L, D, A, T, W The Cabin Upscale Italian within the Mario’s International Spa and Hotel complex. 35 E. Garfield Road, Aurora, 330-562-9171 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Café Bricco This menu is a smaller version of the one at the original Bricco location downtown.

DoubleTree Hotel, 3150 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-835-2203 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Cafe Tandoor Casual atmosphere, Indian cuisine. 96 Barrington Town Center, Aurora, 330-562-5334 $$$ L, D, A, T Cana Valley Winery Check out this winery’s 13 varieties. Bring in your own food. 5665 Waterloo Road, Atwater, 330-596-3017 $$$$ D, A

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Canal Tavern of Zoar Fine casual dining in Zoar’s original tavern and inn.

Features steaks and chops, seafood and Zoar-inspired German cuisine, as well as draft brews and extensive wine list. Sun. brunch. Patio bar and dining along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. 8806 Towpath Road, NE, Bolivar, 330-874-4444 $$$ L, D, A, T Casa Del Rio Mexican dining. 839 High St., Wadsworth, 330-335-4001 $$ L, D, A, T Caston & Main Brew Yard This cozy, casual gastropub with a fireplace and two outdoor patios with fire features offers a large variety of craft beer including 32 taps, with wine, specialty cocktails and 140-plus bourbons, whiskeys and spirits including rare selections. The chefdriven menu offers house-made flatbreads, sandwiches and beer cheese, as well as Sunday brunch.

5010 S. Main St., Akron, 330-882CASK (2275) $$$ L, D, A Ceedo’s Eatery Traditional Middle Eastern food — kosher and halal — including shawarma and falafel, stuffed whole lamb, hummus, tabbouleh and kibbeh. Closed Mon. 4147 Bridgewater Parkway, Stow, 330-940-2424 $$ B, L, D, T Cellar 59 Wine Bar & Wine Shop The menu in this renovated 19th-century farmhouse features small plates and desserts, as well as bottles of wine and craft beer. Closed Sun. and Mon. 3984 Kent Road, Stow, 330-688-2684 $$$ L, D, A, T China City Traditional Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting. 156 Cherry St., Kent, 330-673-6566 $$ L, D, A, T Chowder House Cafe Salads, soups, sandwiches and clam chowder. Bring your own wine and beer, $5 corkage fee. Delivery available. 2028 Chestnut Blvd., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-794-7102 $$$ L, D, T No credit cards Cilantro Upscale Thai and Japanese, extensive menu, fresh ingredients, hand-selected sushi and no monosodium glutamate. Eclectic

Go to akronlife.com to view more area restaurants & events.

GOOD EATS UNCORKED

[ by Mike McKenney ]

Tribute California

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Nearly 40 years ago, seven brothers and a father transformed a piece of California’s Sonoma Mountain into the certified sustainable Benziger Family Winery. To honor the hard work and dedication put into that vineyard as well as all of the family memories, the youngest brother, Chris, started Tribute wines in 2020.

The Benziger Family Winery made a name for itself with its green farming practices — each bottle is certified by a third party — and has racked up awards for its limited original Tribute Bordeaux Blend, the first biodynamic wine made in Sonoma and Napa counties.

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Now Tribute showcases that commitment to sustainability at affordable prices. Find Tribute wines in Ohio stores by looking for bottles with raised family crests that salute the Benzigers’ journey, and enjoy these varietals with those close to you.

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

PINOT NOIR

Aged in French and American oak barrels for 13 months, it has fruit flavors of currant, black cherry and cassis. Sip it while nibbling on any roasted or grilled foods, portobello mushrooms, aged cheddar or Gouda cheese amongst friends. No matter which you pick, the velvety lingering finish will lead to pouring everyone a second glass.

This beautiful expression of a California pinot noir is aged in French and Hungarian oak barrels.

Take a long, deep whiff to enjoy the depth of various fruit aromas and flavors of red fruit, clove and vanilla. The long-lasting finish is an indication of the dedicated winemaking the Benzigers are known for. Enjoy this versatile wine on its own or with an appetizer of brie or goat cheese or a dinner of beef or pork tenderloin surrounded by loved ones.

SAUVIGNON BLANC This white gets its complexity from sur lie aging, a technique in which finished wine continues to sit in barrels to extract more flavors. A juicy nose of tropical citrus fruits leads into refreshing flavors of pineapple and grapefruit. The aging process produces a mouthwatering texture that pairs well with a shareable plate of seafood.

CHARDONNAY Fragrances of fruits like pear and apple lead into vanilla and creme brulee notes and carry into a longlasting finish. Aged eight months in French and American oak barrels, this bright chardonnay pairs great with your family’s favorite salad and chicken dish.

Find it at Acme Fresh Market, Giant Eagle, Heinen’s and Buehler’s Fresh Foods.

[ Mike McKenney is a manager at Heidelberg Distributing Co. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com]. .

e

$14.9

9

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

39

GOOD EATS UNTAPPED

[ by Aaron Fowler ]

Bearded Iris Brewing Nashville, Tennessee

Housed in a 60-year-old manufacturing warehouse, Bearded Iris Brewing was named after Tennessee’s state flower.

Since first opening its doors in Nashville’s East Germantown neighborhood in 2016, Bearded Iris quickly built a following thanks to its keen deliveries of hazy India pale ales and double IPAs. Having grown from a 15-barrel to a 30-barrel brewhouse with many offerings, the brewery continues to make strides to expand its distribution footprint. Now, Ohioans can experience the craze themselves when Bearded Iris beers hit local stores this month.

HOMESTYLE As the brewery’s flagship offering, Homestyle is an oat IPA brewed with Mosaic hops. At 6 percent alcohol by volume, this beer is a punch of vibrant berry fruit flavors with an earthy hop bite. A double IPA counterpart, Double Homestyle, is also available for those wanting to be a bit more adventurous.

atmosphere. 326 S. Main St., Akron, 330-434-2876 $$$ L, D, A, T Circle L Steakhouse at the Galaxy The new menu offers a wide selection of steak cuts, and the atmosphere provides an upscale, rustic feel. Sun. brunch and live entertainment. Carryout and Curbside pickup available. 201 Park Centre Drive, Wadsworth, 330-3343663 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Corkscrew Saloon Specializes in fresh seafood, steaks and chops, prepared

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WAVELENGTH For a bolder taste, check out this double IPA, hopped with El Dorado, Vic Secret and Citra.

It delivers an 8.3 percent ABV tropical fruit bomb that truly follows through on its citrusy expectations.

EVER CLEVER This double dry-hopped New England style double IPA brings forth the best of both worlds. It mixes traditional hop-forward West Coast double IPA characteristics with the New England hazy style that beer enthusiasts have grown to love the last few years.

Bearded Iris Brewing beers are available in four-packs of 16-ounce cans at select Acme Fresh Market, Fishers Foods and Mustard Seed Market & Cafe locations, as well as your finer craft beer stops such as Lizardville and 101 Bottles of Beer on the Wall.

[ Aaron Fowler is a sales representative at Cavalier Distributing. ]

pack four-

$14.9

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Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

by executive chef Ryan Marino. Live entertainment Wed. nights. 811 W. Liberty, Medina, 330-725-0220 $$$$ L, D, A, T Crave Cantina Latin fare meets global tacos at this modern, artistic eatery from the owner of Crave in downtown Akron. Pair your eclectic taco choices with a rum flight of your choice. 2097 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-940-2000 $$$$ L, D, A, T The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard A

modern industrial building that houses a state-of-the-art winery facility, wine bar and eatery. Perfect for a fun lunch, casual dinner or late snack. 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330497-1000, ext. 5 $$ L, D, A D’Agnese’s Tomato Grill Wide array of entree choices. Sun. brunch. Catering available. 106 First St., Hudson, 330342-3771 $$$$ L, D, A, T D’Agnese’s at White Pond Contemporary Italian food served in a classy yet

casual setting. Live entertainment in the lounge. Full service catering. 566 White Pond Drive, Akron, 234-6783612 $$$ L, D, A, T D.B.A., Dante Boccuzzi Akron, Modern American food in a rock ‘n’ roll palace setting. Several menu items

Go to akronlife.com to view more area restaurants & events.

GOOD EATS

can be ordered in varied portion sizes, based on your appetite. Vegetarian and vegan options available. Order a drink and relax on the restaurant’s spacious patio. 21 Furnace St., Akron, 330-375-5050 $$$$ D, A, T, V Der Dutchman A family-friendly comfort food restaurant in Amish Country offering a seniors’ menu, options for vegans and other special diets, along with house-made pies. 720 state Route 97 W, Bellville, 419-866-7070 $$ B, L, D, W, T Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970.

Specializes in family-style shish kebabs. 204 12th St. NW, Canton, 330456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A Dewey’s Pizza This family-friendly pizza joint has offers gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free and vegan versions of all pizzas, so that everyone can get in on the fun.

Beyond pizza, find specialty items such as the candied walnut and grape salad. At Summit Mall, 3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-873-4444 $$$ L, D, A, T Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St., Akron, 330-762-5877 $ B, L, A, D (Saturdays only), T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, authentic 1950s-style decor. All steaks are hand-cut, and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St., Akron, 330253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No credit cards Divine Food Spirits and Wine Casual and upscale American fare, a scratch kitchen and a wide drink selection.

2752 Hudson Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-4400 $$$$ D, A, T Dontino’s Fine Italian Cuisine Homestyle Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T El Fogon Mexican Grill Traditional Mexican fare from the owner of El Campesino in Canton and Perry Township. Full bar and weekly margarita specials.

1080 Interstate Parkway, Green, 330644-7700 $$ L, D, A, T El Rancho Traditional Mexican fare made fresh from scratch each day. Weekly margarita and happy hour specials.

4065 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-922-8112; 1678 W. Exchange St., Akron, 330-864-3300 $$ L, D, A, T El Rincon Authentic Mexican cuisine. 720 S. Main St., North Canton, 330-4972229 $$ L, D, A, T Everest Restaurant Authentic Indian and Nepali meals include curry and gulab jamun, a sweet deep-fried cheese dessert, in a no-frills restaurant run

by Nepali natives. 2033 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-706-6630 $$ L, D, W, T Fat Head’s Brewery A brewpub with wellknown beers, sandwiches as big as your head and hearty appetizers like fried pickles, pepper jack bites and Beasty BBQ wings. 3885 Everhard Road NW, Canton, 330-244-8601 $$$

L, D, W, A, T Firehouse Grill & Pub Watch sports and enjoy steaks and Buffalo wings. 10 Tallmadge Circle, Tallmadge, 330-6349967 $$ L, D, A, T Fisher’s Café & Pub American cuisine.

1607 Main St., Peninsula, 330-6572651 $$ L, D, A, T Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Aged beef, chops, fresh seafood, salad and more than 100 wines by the glass. 4000 Medina Road, Akron, 330670-5200 $$$$ D, A, T Flip Side Gourmet, Ohio-raised beef burgers with chef-crafted condiments, toppings and sides; free-range organic chicken breast sandwiches; and market fresh salads. Craft beer on tap. 49 Village Way, Hudson, 330-6553547 $$ L, D, A, T Foundry Social Have some nostalgic fun with games like duckpin bowling or electric go-karts while enjoying craft cocktails, elevated pub sandwiches and share plates. 333 Foundry St., Medina, 330-333-9000 $$ L, D, A Franklin Hotel Bar An upscale downtown Kent bar featuring craft cocktails, share plates and small plates. 176 E. Main St., Kent, 330-676-1000 $$ D, A Fred’s Diner Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch. 930 Home Ave., Akron, 330-535-3733 $ B, L, T Green Diamond Grille & Pub Upscale dining without upscale pricing. Specializes in steaks, chops, baby back ribs and seafood. 125 Second St., Barberton, 330-745-1900 $$$ L, D, A, T Guiseppe’s Pizza Family-owned pizzeria known for its Sicilian-style square pizza. 14 E. Caston Road, Akron, 330644-8842 $$ L, D, T Ivan’s Diner Menu includes sandwiches, burgers, subs and salads. 3925 Embassy Parkway, Fairlawn, 330-8363553 $$ L, T Jilly’s Music Room Creative American tapas in a sophisticated setting with live music, concerts and events Wed. through Sat. All gluten-free menu.

111 N. Main St., Akron, 330-576-3757 $$, D, A, T, W Jimmy’s Backyard BBQ A family-friendly restaurant known for award-winning baby back ribs. 526 Graham Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-349-6949; 1338 N. Chapel St., Suite 1, Louisville, 330871-0006 $$ L, D, T Jimmy Bigg’s Grille Burgers, Italian subs, Reubens, wings, Philly cheesesteak, BLTs, salads, hand-breaded onion rings and more. 1927 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-2444 $$ L, D, A, T Kasai Japanese Restaurant Sushi, hibachi, noodles, don buri, agamono and more. Enjoy a glass of wine and finish your meal with tempura cheesecake.

295 Weatherstone Drive, Wadsworth, 330-334-7141; 3875 Massillon Road, Suite 300, Uniontown, 330-899-9788 $$$ L, D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Grille Widely recognized

as one of Akron’s finest. Upscale, eclectic cuisine. Emphasis on steak and seafood. 1970 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-2555 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Kingfish A posh yet sleek interior features the freshest seafood of North Coast.

Dress is business casual. Reservations recommended. Happy Hour bar only weekdays 4-6 p.m.; Sun. 1-8 p.m.

Dinner weekdays 4-10 p.m.; Fri and Sat 4-11 p.m.; Sunday 1-8 p.m. Closed major holidays and Super Bowl Sunday. 115 Montrose West Ave., Copley. 330-777-2005. kingfishakron. com. $$$$ D, A Kosar’s Wood-Fired Grill Award-winning steakhouse offering aged steaks, fresh chops and expertly prepared seafood tastefully in an upscale space decorated with beloved former Cleveland Browns player Bernie Kosar’s own authentic memorabilia.

At the MGM Northfield Park casino. 21 and over only. 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield, 330-908-7265 $$$$ D, A Kozmo’s Grille Stone-hearth pizzas, upscale pasta dishes, fresh seafood and steaks. 37 First St. SW, Massillon, 330-832-8807 $$$ L, D, A, T LagerHeads BBQ Smokehouse and Brewing Co. Try the barbecue ribs, smoked wings and beer cheese soup, made with Barnburner lager.

For dessert, taste the fruit crisp made with grains used to brew their signature beers. 2832 Abbeyville Road, Medina, 330-725-1947 $$$ L, D, A, T Lanning’s Restaurant Elegant dining atmosphere with a beautiful view.

More than 150 types of wine. 826 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330666-1159, 330-864-2553 $$$$ D, A, T, V Larry’s Main Entrance English-pub style, burgers of note. 1964 W. Market St., Akron, 330-864-8162 $$ L, D, A, T Laziza High-end Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, plus steak and seafood dishes and a full bar. Acorn Alley, 195 E. Erie St., Kent, 330-6777000 $$$ L, D, A, T Lembo’s Italian Restaurant Weekday lunchtime salad and pizza buffet, Italian specialties, chicken dinners and sandwiches. Daily specials, lunch specials, kids’ menu. 1186 Canton Road, Akron, 330-733-7586 $$$ L, D, A, T The Leopard Eclectic menu with American, Asian, French and Italian influences. Features seven-course chef’s table, prix fixe. 600 N. Aurora Road, Aurora, 330-562-2111 $$$$ D, A, T, V Lizardville Large selection of draft and bottled beers, whiskey and cigars to enjoy on site or take home. Try the Wild Western burger and a glass of Weller Antique Winking Lizard Edition.

21 and over only. 79 Springside Dr., Akron, 330-644-1782 $$ D, A, T The Lockview Traditional American favorites. Fresh menu with

spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St., Akron, 330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T Luca’s New York Style Pizza Pizza, calzones, stromboli, cheesesteaks and subs. 3451 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-688-9595 $$$ D, T Lucca Downtown Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Italian-inspired menu. Call for reservations. 228 Fourth St. NW, Canton, 330-456-2534. $$$$ L, D, A, T Lucia’s Steakhouse Located at Belden Village. Fresh seafood, signature garlic butter-topped steaks, Italian favorites and Lucia classics, like house-made crab cakes or cubanella and long, hot peppers. Closed Sun. 4769 Belpar St. NW, Canton, 330-4929933 $$$$ D, A Luigi’s Restaurant An Akron icon. Open late. Serves superb Italian cuisine, salads and award-winning pizza.

Voted best pizza and best Italian restaurant by Akron Life readers. Party trays and sheet-pan pizzas available with 24-hour notice. 105 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-2999 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards Lukity Country Inn Homestyle comfort food. 2697 Manchester Road, Akron, 330-753-5983 $$ B, L, D, T Magic City’s Remarkable Diner Chef-driven breakfast and lunch menu with surprising twists on diner classics, like the smoked salmon and Brie omelet.

451 Fairview Ave., Barberton, 330983-9787 $$ B, L, T Maize Valley Winery & Craft Brewery Sample wine by bottle or glass, as well as craft beer. Taste 100-plus types of cheeses. Appetizers and sandwiches. 6193 Edison St. NE, Hartville, 330-877-8344 $$ L, D, A, T Mandarin House Chinese and South Asian entrees. 3201 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-8157 $$ L, D, A, T Mavis Winkle’s Irish Pub Large, eclectic menu, cozy atmosphere and live music. 8870 Darrow Road, Twinsburg, 330-405-3663 $$$ L, D, A, T Meet Me At Irene’s House favorites include chili, omelets and daily specials, such as Swiss steak, beef tips, meatloaf and tuna melts. 264 Kent Ave. NE, Hartville, 330-877-6477 $ B, L, T Missing Falls Brewery Located in the historic BF Goodrich factory, Missing Falls Brewery is the latest addition to Akron’s craft brewery scene. Offering sixteen craft beers, a spacious taproom, an open brewery concept, and a family friendly environment in a turn of the century piece of Americana. Oh, did we mention artisan pizza too? 540 S. Main St., Suite 112, Akron, 234-231-1000 missingfalls.com $$ A Ms. Julie’s Kitchen Opened by Akron native and author of three vegan cookbooks. Specialties include salads, whole grain-foods and spelt APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

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GOOD EATS flour waffles. 1809 S. Main St., Akron, 330-819-3834 $ B, L, D, T Mulligan’s Pub Local antique decor, award-winning barbecue ribs, extensive menu. 4118 Belden Village St. NW, Canton, 330-493-8239 $$$ L, D, A, T Mustard Seed Market & Cafe Located on mezzanine overlooking the Highland Square natural foods market. Menu reflects same strict standards as the market, with naturally raised meats, free-range poultry and foods free from artificial flavors, colorings and preservatives. Full bar, juice bar and espresso. Live music on weekends.

Sun. brunch. 3885 W. Market St., Montrose, 330-666-7333; 867 W. Market St., Akron, 330-434-7333 $$$ L, D, T Nepali Kitchen Authentic Nepali cuisine like paneer pakora alongside familiar Asian favorites like chicken curry and chow Mein. 399 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-631-1112 $$$ L, D, W, T Niko’s Sandwich Board Cafe Fresh salads, small-batch soups made from scratch daily, handcrafted sandwiches. Menu includes several veggie, vegan and gluten-free selections. 1947 W. Market St., Suite 104, Akron, 330-794-5444 $$ L, D, T Nauti Vine Winery Known for its brick oven baked artisan-style pizza and house-made wines with a scenic view of Portage Lakes. 3950 S. Main St., Akron, 330-644-5444 $$$ D, A Oak and Embers Tavern Southern-style barbecue brisket, pork, ribs and chicken with signature drinks including the Devil’s Grandma and the Revolver. 7774 Darrow Road, Hudson, 234-602-1056 $$$ L, D, W, A, T The Oaks Lakeside Casual dining, fabulous ambiance in 1914 estate.

Outdoor dining and water views.

Banquet facility. 5878 Longacre Lane, Chippewa Lake, 330-769-2601 $$$$ D, A 111 Bistro House Manager Meghan Pender and Executive Chef Anthony Scolaro own this new eatery which features starters, soups and salads, sandwiches, pasta and entrees, as well as an extensive wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Weekend brunch available. Closed Mon. 2736 Medina Road, Medina, 330-952-1122 $$$$ D, A, T One Red Door Decadent menu featuring gourmet pizzas, share plates such as bacon-wrapped roasted dates and burgers. 49 Village Way, Hudson, 330342-3667 $$$$ L, D, A The Overlook Grill Fine dining in a mansion overlooking the Twin Lakes that’s often the site of weddings.

Menu features classics like chicken piccata and Delmonico steaks. 1519 Overlook Road, Kent, 330-984-4730 $$$ D, A Pad Thai Elegant restaurant, extensive menu of traditional Thai dishes. 3545

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Brookwall Drive, Fairlawn, 330-6689981; 5657 Darrow Road, Hudson, 330-650-9998 $$$ L, D, A, T Papa Bear’s Italian Restaurant authentic, house-made Italian food. 4990 Dressler Road NW, Canton, 330-4930090 $$$ L, D, A, T Papa Gyros Greek Grill Authentic Greek fare. Greek wine and beer. 3939 Massillon Road, Green, 330-899-0707; 4760 Everhard Road, Canton, 330497-1100; 320 W. State St., Alliance, 330-823-7773; 2045 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330-456-9000; 1 N. Hawkins Ave., Akron, 330-247-2475 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s Classy atmosphere, extensive wine list, fine Italian fare, seafood and steaks. 1561 Akron Peninsula Road, Akron, 330-923-7999 $$$ L, D, A, T Primo’s Deli An Akron mainstay since 1979. Try their famous corned beef sandwich or spicy Italian sub, and finish with a slice of house-made carrot cake. Closed Sun. and Mon. 1707 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, 330745-9056 $$ L, D, A, T Rasicci’s Pizza Deep-dish pizza, fried chicken and jojos from owner Rick Rasicci. 513 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-923-1999 $$ L, D, T Ray’s Place Great burgers, hearty dinners and the area’s largest selection of foreign and domestic beer in the bottle and on draft. 135 Franklin Ave., Kent, 330-673-2233; 25 Ghent Road, Fairlawn, 330-835-2233 $$ L, D, A, T Rizzi’s Ristorante & Pizzeria Recipes originating from northern Italy shine at this family-owned restaurant with fried chicken that has garnered its own trademark. 2809 Copley Road, Copley, 330-666-1221, 330-668-2626 $$ L, D, T Rosewood Grill Seasonally inspired with the fresh appeal of a local farmers market. Happy hour, Mon.-Fri., 3-6 p.m. 36 E. Streetsboro St., Hudson, 330-656-2100 $$$$ L Fri/Sat only, D, A, T Serenite Restaurant Fine French dining includes oysters, shrimp cocktail, escargot, duck confit and smoked salmon. Socially conscious mission with a staff made up of people in recovery from addiction. 538 W. Liberty St., Medina, 330-952-2611 $$$ L, D, A, T Shawarma Bros. Get a taste of authentic shawarma lamb, chicken or beef in a rice bowl or on pita bread and falafel, then finish off your meal with baklava at this affordable takeout restaurant.

1808 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-3996 $$ L, D, T Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition. Drive-in burgers, fast fare.

2781 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Road, Green, 330-896-9350 $ L, D, T Sonnets Espresso Bar & Restaurant Signature blend coffee, local craft beer, made-to-order sandwiches,

salads, soups, kids’ meals and live music every weekend. Closed Sun. 117 College St., Wadsworth, 330-3365557 $$ B, L, D, A, T Spennato’s Italian Ristorante Seafood, chicken, pasta and pizza, as well as attentive service and a casual dining atmosphere. 10446 Northfield Road, Northfield, 330-468-8688 $$$ L, D, A, T Sushi Katsu Award-winning sushi spot in the Merriman Valley. 1446 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-867-2334 $$$ L, D, A, T Thyme2 Pub & Fine Dining Contemporary cuisine with worldly influences, served in an upscale, modern setting.

113 W. Smith Road, Medina, 330-7644114 $$$$ L, D, A, T Tim’s Pizzeria and Pub Specialty pizza, traditional Italian dishes, subs, award-winning wings, house-made soup and more. 2823 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-1530 $$ D, A, T Timber Lodge Steaks are hand-selected from the finest USDA Prime and Choice aged beef. Seafood is flown in daily to assure the peak of flavor and freshness. Prime rib is slow roasted rotisserie-style and hand-carved to your taste. Famous for its No. 1 giant lobster tail. 2809 Pearl Road, Medina, 330-725-6288 $$$ D, A, T Tip Top Restaurant & Catering Pleasant atmosphere with homestyle menu.

Perfect for family dining. Curbside pickup and delivery available. 3428 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-688-3171 $$ B, L, D, T Tito’s Mexican Grill Dining room features wooden chairs and tables handcarved in Mexico. Run by the owners of El Rincon on South Arlington.

Great meals and even greater margaritas. 25 Ghent Road, Fairlawn, 330-835-9801 $$ L, D, A, T Tokyo Hibachi and Sushi Hibachi meals cooked at your table, entrees from the kitchen, as well as sushi and sashimi. 1132 N. Court St., Medina, 330-952-2818 $$$$ L, D, T Trecaso’s Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s best red sauce. Highland Square spot known for several ice cream options. 780 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-1511 $$ L, D, T Treno Ristorante Upscale dining with a focus on classic northern Italian cuisine in a former train depot along train tracks by the Cuyahoga River in downtown Kent. Co-owned by Kent State University alum and British Open champion Ben Curtis. 152 Franklin Ave., Kent, 330-676-5139 $$$ L, D, A, W The Twisted Olive Casual classic ItalianAmerican fare prepared in wood-fire ovens and on grills. Indoor and outdoor seating. 5430 Massillon Road, Green, 330-899-0550 $$$ L, D, A, T Vaccaro’s Trattoria Traditional Italian cuisine with a twist on nouveau.

Famous since 1957. An Italian and Akron classic. 1000 Ghent Road, Akron, 330-666-6158; Lunch Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Dinner Mon.-Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$$ L, D, A, T Valley Cafe Owned by a five-star gourmet chef. Features friendly service, dishes made from scratch and famous cabbage soup. 1212 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-8650101; 101 High St., Wadsworth, 330331-7555 $ B, L, D (Wadsworth only), T Village Gardens Restaurant and Pub Family restaurant. House-made meals, including house-favorites Macedonian bean soup, chicken vlaki and chicken paprikash. Full-service lounge. 2437 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-5751 $ B, L, D, A, T Vinifera Wine-to-Whiskey Bar Extensive beverage list with an enomatic wine dispenser system of more than 60 wine selections, more than 80 whiskey and bourbon options and a food menu. 3236 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-571-0233 $$$ D, A, T Virtues Signature foods such as a tempura calamari appetizer.

Specialty pizzas, filet mignon and other gourmet items with high nutritional values on Summa Health System Akron Campus. 525 E. Market St., Akron, 330-375-7444 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, V Wally Waffle Breakfast served all day. Try the Elvis Waffle, loaded with bacon and peanut butter chips and topped with honey and sliced bananas. Plus, burgers, gyros, chicken sandwiches, fresh salads and more. 845 W. Market St., Akron, 330-374-4915; 100 North Ave., Tallmadge, 330-633-7400; 3997 Medina Road, Bath, 234-466-0155 $$ B, L, T Waterloo Restaurant Eclectic menu.

Famous for the Waterloo Big Apple and French onion soup. 423 E. Waterloo Road, Akron, 330-773-5158 $$ B, L, D, T Water Main Grille Sandwiches, soups and dinner platters. 339 Main St., Wadsworth, 330-331-7757 $$ L, D, T The West Side Bakery Specialties include cakes, pastries and cookies.

Breakfast items include scones, muffins and yogurt parfaits. All sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups are made from scratch. 2303 W. Market St., Akron, 330-836-4101 $ B, L, T Yours Truly This award-winning restaurant is family-owned and operated, with an emphasis on customer service and family-friendly dining. Try the burger, chili and breakfast items. 36 S. Main St., Hudson, 330-656-2900; 3725 Medina Road, Medina, 330-722-5800 $$ B, L, D, A, T Please send any changes or corrections to kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup. com.

Cuyahoga Falls

READY TO PLAY

IN BLOOM

Game center powers up historic theater

Planter art and history trail make downtown pop

+ TOAST HERE 4 fresh spots to get a good drink

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C U YA H O G A FA L L S

by Alexandra Sobczak, photo provided by Western Reserve Hospital

Call Back Western Reserve Hospital works to overcome isolation in the community.

How have you been supporting hospital workers?

KR: We’ve done things inside the hospital. We just had a coffee truck there as a special little extra for them. … They’ve had great morale because [of ] the leadership team constantly telling them, This is what we were made to do.

We really saw the community come out as well, from sidewalk chalk and encouraging messages to donations from businesses.

The hospital really tried to support those businesses back. So sometimes they would order, for example, pizza from HiHo Brewing [Co.], who was very generous during COVID.

The community has done an incredible job reaching out to hospital workers as they do lifesaving work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Western Reserve Hospital in Cuyahoga Falls has reached back to them, especially older adults.

“Seniors are one of our most vulnerable and isolated groups in the community,” says Kathy Romito, the community outreach manager at Western Reserve Hospital, which had

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akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

University Hospitals become a minority partner. “We continue to look for ways to make sure that they’re not left out.”

We speak with Romito about how else the hospital has been connecting with the community from afar.

Romito has been busy adapting programming, including creating a distanced take on the hospital’s Veterans Day luncheon that is typically the largest around. In November, there was a small outdoor ceremony, and over 500 yard signs recognizing veterans’ service were distributed.

What have you been doing for seniors?

KR: One of the first [events] in 2020 was a drive-thru farmers market. … People were feeling very alone. That was refreshing for people.

“I still see those out,” says Romito. “It was a small gesture that went really far.”

We do a lot of contactless delivery. At Christmastime, we delivered 250 bags to seniors across the county. … The positive feedback was that they felt like they were kids opening presents again.

How have the Facebook Live events helped the public?

KR: We did a breakdown of all of the new information about COVID and also about the vaccines.

We want to be that source to make sure … people are not unclear about what’s going on.

How do all these outreach programs benefit people?

KR: People feel very isolated with COVID. … A lot of those seniors in particular would go to senior centers or the library to engage. So we believe that what we offer, at least monthly, gives them something to look forward to. westernreservehospital.org

We have a motto at Alexander Body & Fender: “THE GOLD STANDARD ... SINCE 1928.” It’s more than a tagline to us — it’s the end-all and be-all of our business.

THE GOLD STANDARD...SINCE 1928

At Alexander Body in Akron, our specialists hold themselves to the gold standard.

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Jon Roach & Brian Roach, Owners Alexander Body & Fender photo by Daniel Smith

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C U YA H O G A FA L L S

by Kelly Petryszyn, photos provided by the Blue Door Cafe & Bakery

On the Rise Blue Door Cafe & Bakery expands its menu and space.

Croque Madame

Michael Bruno noticed he was seeing familiar faces twice a day.

“The highest compliment I can get is I would see somebody for breakfast, and then at 1 o’clock, I would see them for lunch,” says the Blue Door Cafe & Bakery owner. “They were like, There were so many things we wanted to try that we had to come back.”

In response to the demand for Blue Door’s artisanal Europeaninspired breakfast and lunch items, Bruno is widening the menu with offerings like 6

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tastings and expanding the cafe’s space to double its seating capacity to about 140.

It has a spiffy repainted interior with new tile flooring, new contemporary lighting and a fresh reproduction of the “At Moulin Rouge” painting by an Akron teacher that offers Parisian ambiance. Later this year, Bruno is extending seating by closing in the patio and adding a new rooftop patio that’s set to open next summer.

New tasting menus allow customers to choose three, four or five small plates. Those looking

to make it a boozy brunch can add expert wine pairings as well. There’s also a new weekday 8 to 11 a.m. happy hour with $5 mimosas, discounted classics that come with a complimentary cup of Angel Falls coffee or Secret Tea Society loose leaf tea and more.

A must-try is the buttermilk jalapeno waffle that’s served with Green Circle buttermilkbrined chicken, which comes from chickens that are fed table scraps on farms. “These chickens are running around in the yard and being fed how they used to be fed in the old

days. It makes chicken that’s an awesome quality,” Bruno says.

Whiskey butter, rosemary- and bourbon-infused Ohio maple syrup and a mole-inspired hot sauce add a burst of flavor.

He is also excited about the high tea at the Ritz plate, based on authentic high tea he had in London. “They give you these tiny sandwiches where they cut off the crusts and make little toasts,” he says. Find inventive finger sandwiches like creme fraiche and lingonberry, Green Circle chicken salad, smoked king salmon and cream cheese and lemon cucumber, with

C U YA H O G A FA L L S

by Kelly Petryszyn, photos provided by Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership

BE AUT Y BLOOMS Blintz

High Tea

preserves, house-made lemon curd and clotted cream, a European specialty that the Blue Door makes. “That’s heated very gently for 12 hours. It’s really thick, rich, flavorful,” he says.

The high tea plate offers a fine display for bakers’ fresh creations like house scones and brownie petit fours, in addition to the regularly baked bread — baguette, Swiss braid, sourdough, challah and multigrain.

Through all of the expansion plans, Bruno hasn’t lost sight of the importance of the bakery. After all, Blue Door began in 2009 with the purchase of European artisanal baking equipment and a dream he has harbored since visiting a bakery in Germany more than three decades ago. So as the restaurant expands, the bakery rises too.

“Without the bakery, the Blue Door wouldn’t exist,” Bruno says.

Dine in, drive-thru or carryout, 1970 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-926-9774, bluedoorcafebakery.com

Art is pretty, but it has other benefits too.

“There’s a lot of studies about how observing arts does have a chemical and mental benefit,” says Stow artist Kimmy Henderson, whose designs decorate a planter near Hunt’s Bar in Cuyahoga Falls. “We all need beauty and creativity.”

landmarks — the clocktower and the old and new fountains. The butterfly on another panel is a representation of Falls’ nature and Henderson’s Bipolar Butterfly Project, which uses art to advocate for mental health awareness.

“I really want to give mental health a visual representation. Butterflies are a symbol of change — it’s evolving and becoming better,” she says. That’s shown in how one side of the wings appears crumbled while the other side is perfectly intact. For the All City Art Walk April 24 to May 2, Henderson is collaborating with high schoolers to create a butterfly mural in Up Front Art Space’s window.

To inspire and bring beauty, the Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership turned the planters lining Front Street into canvases. Designs by seven selected local artists were installed in October, and there are plans to decorate the remaining nine planters as funding becomes available. The art spans mediMore good vibes sprout up in High ums, including painting, photography Bridge Glens park April 8 to 15 with and graphic design, and highlights “Hope Blooms Ohio,” a traveling exhibit the downtown, its heritage or the of five 20-foot-plus inflatable flowers Cuyahoga River. For example, Miyah conceived by Beachwood High School Greenwood’s planter by HiHo Brewing students in the EntrepreNew program.

Co. depicts a gradient sunset over the As part of the event, purchase swag that river, and Dara Harper’s three plantbenefits the Greater Cleveland Food ers across from Pav’s Creamery display Bank, display a free Hope Blooms yard vibrant paintings of downtown imagery. sign, join a themed activity and view flower-focused storefront displays.

“It really did [pop] during the winter,” says Kaylee Piper, the partnership’s new executive director. “It brought a lot of light.”

While Henderson typically paints with brushes, she used digital painting for her graphic planter that showcases the city as a gathering place. Panels feature a twisted tree, yellow flowers and Falls

All the art is a sign of hope and resiliency in the pandemic.

“It’s important to keep arts alive, especially now,” Henderson says. “We see a lot of negativity. They need to see beautiful uplifting art.”

For more info, visit downtowncf.com.

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

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C U YA H O G A FA L L S

by Wyatt Loy, photos by Ryanne Locker

Marquee Attraction A historic downtown theater shines again as an entertainment center.

The once-glamorous Loew’s Theater, where gussied-up people flocked to see silent films starting in 1928, has sat dormant for almost 30 years. Since February, the theater is once again drawing revelers as the Workz, a new family entertainment center.

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akronlife.com | APRIL 2021

“We wanted a casual vibe, but we still wanted to include the theater feel,” says Tim Frankish, the owner and director of marketing and entertainment. “It’s upscale casual, and even our food reflects that. We have drinks and food named after famous actors whose movies actually played in the theater.”

There’s a bar and a restaurant, and a speakeasy with cinematic menu items including the Werewolf of London cocktail, bourbon with berry syrup and sparkling wine, and the Marilyn

entree, Chianti-braised short ribs with garlic mashed potatoes.

There’s plenty of fun to be had with an arcade featuring games like Mario Kart, Skee-Ball and old-school duckpin bowling.

Frankish describes the latter as a shrunken-down version of standard bowling. There are still 10 pins, but they and the ball are much smaller — similar to the size of a softball, he says.

“There are no holes. You just grab it and throw it,” he says.

C U YA H O G A FA L L S

“The nice part is that my 5-yearold niece can do it, and my 95-year-old grandma can do it.

It’s very easy.”

Also find a virtual reality play space for up to four players.

Unlike ones you might have tried at home, this VR system uses a dedicated space and advanced graphics to make it physically engaging and fully immersive with zero motion sickness.

“You can do everything from blasting zombies to Angry Birds to driving army tanks,” Frankish says.

The speakeasy has a quieter, more chill vibe, where you can relax with a cocktail or mocktail and nosh on craft dishes like scallops, truffle Parmesan fries or a charcuterie plate. Frankish says he can’t reveal the creative way to get to the speakeasy, but that’s all part of the fun.

“It’s very small, it’s very intimate,” Frankish says, “but it’s away from all the craziness of the bowling and the games.”

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2220 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-807-8768, playattheworkz.com

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

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C U YA H O G A FA L L S

by Alexandra Sobczak, photos by Ryanne Locker

Another Round Get a good drink at these newer Cuyahoga Falls spots.

DIVINE FOOD SPIRITS WINE This restaurant that opened in December has a wide selection of wine and craft cocktails, along with from-scratch casual and upscale fare like a crisp portobello sandwich or shrimp divine with garlic butter and lemon beurre blanc. Drink This: The Saint cocktail ($13), made with jalapenos and freshsqueezed blood orange juice, kicks up your sip. Dine-in or takeout, 2752 Hudson Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-4400, divinefoodspiritswine.com

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MAGNA WINE BOUTIQUE With a goal of making wine tastings approachable, Magna curates high-quality wine by the bottle and tastings for $20 per person, with to-go options for both from this second location that opened in January. Join the wine club for a pair of bottles tailored to your taste each month. Drink This: Magna Wine Collection’s Chardonnay Select ($24.99 bottle) brings signature luscious flavors of toasted hazelnut and citrus fruit. In-person or online, 2115 Front St., Suite A, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-849-5946, magnawineboutique.com

OHIO BREWING CO. Choose from myriad yearround and rotating beers, such as German ales, Irish red ales, lagers and more at this spot that opened in 2019. Pair what’s on tap with a pizza made with spent grains from the brewing process. Drink This:Verich Gold ($6), a German Kolschstyle ale, is a light quaffable brew with a soft malt flavor.

Dine-in, takeout, curbside pickup or delivery, 2250 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 234-2086243, ohiobrewing.com

VINIFERA WINE-TO-WHISKEY BAR Equipped with an enomatic system that keeps wine fresh and unoxidized, this spot that opened in November offers over 100 wine options and over 100 whiskey choices. Also find whiskey and bourbon cocktails and artisan crostinis. Drink This:Try the Heaven’s Door Double Barrel ($15), a nod to Bob Dylan’s “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,” as an ounceand-a-half pour on the rocks or neat, and taste notes of butterscotch, dark chocolate and spice. Dine-in, takeout or curbside pickup, 3236 State Road, Unit A, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-571-0233, viniferawinebar.

C U YA H O G A FA L L S

by Kelly Petryszyn, photos provided by Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership

Stroll Past A new history trail gets you closer to Cuyahoga Falls’ roots.

because we were such a huge manufacturing center,” Holland says. “We made everything: pitchforks, rope, machine parts, clocks.” In the early 1800s, the river powered factories that produced 100,000 steel utensils and 525 tons of paper annually, six dozen units of shovels daily and more.

EQUAL SIGN: In the mid-1800s, Cuyahoga Falls had an antislavery society that advocated for freedom seekers as part of the First Congregational Church, which is now the Pilgrim United Church of Christ. It had 50-some members who assisted freedom seekers, and Holland has seen traces of hiding places.

“The Pilgrim Church has an underground room that still exists,” she says. “There’s also a tunnel.”

Many locals know of the Portage Path where Native Americans carried their canoes from the Cuyahoga River to the Tuscarawas River more than 10,000 years ago because a statue commemorates it at a busy Merriman Valley intersection. It’s news to most locals, however, that there was a similar path in Cuyahoga Falls.

“The point where they would exit the river was actually along Front Street to portage around our falls and continue on to the Tuscarawas River,” says Jeri Holland, president of the Cuyahoga Falls Historical Society.

The evolution of the river from industrial to recreational is a theme that flows through each sign. “The river is the backbone of the downtown,” says Kaylee Piper, executive director for the partnership.

To share the city’s unique heritage, the society partnered with the Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Partnership and Triad to install seven signs for a walkable history trail. “Our goal was to teach people more about our history that isn’t so wellknown,” she says.

Look out for themed walking tours in the summer, and eventually, the partnership hopes to add augmented reality features to bring it to life. Holland gives us a sneak peek.

NAME CHANGE: Cuyahoga Falls is the city’s second name. “We were once called Manchester after Manchester, England,

THRILL SEEKERS: Now a park and butterfly garden, High Bridge Glens was once home to an amusement park that had one of the first gravity-operated roller coasters, a dance pavilion and trails. “People would hike dressed to the nines,” Holland says, adding that they had to go down two levels, take Fenton Ferry across the river and then hike the Chuckery Race trail to Old Maid’s Kitchen. “They would do all of that in heels and wool dresses.” In 1912, a dam that was built to power a streetcar system flooded and destroyed the amusement park.

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

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C U YA H O G A FA L L S

by Kelly Petryszyn, photo provided by Janice Juszczec

Moving Up A couple leaves the suburbs to downsize in the city.

What’s your typical weekend like?

JJ: On Saturday morning, we like to go to Asterisk Coffee Bar and get coffee, or we might go to Flury’s Cafe and get breakfast.

Then on Saturday afternoon … most of the time, we are at our gym. My sister lives within walking distance. We’ll shop at Celia’s [Boutique] and Jean & Lou. Saturday evening, we might have dinner at one of the restaurants. For example, Missing Mountain [Brewing Co.] or Burntwood Tavern have seating outdoors that overlooks the river. Sometimes you see kayakers going by.

Mark Juszczec

Janice and Mark Juszczec had a four-bedroom house in Fairlawn and raised a son. After they became empty-nesters, they wanted to try city life.

They packed or donated over two decades of possessions and downsized to living in a Cuyahoga Falls apartment for two years. They loved it so much that they bought a condo in 2020 in the Watermark building that has restaurants Butcher & Sprout and Craft Social on the street level. The modern 1,500-square-foot unit has a small balcony, and they share it with their two cats.

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“We wanted a different kind of lifestyle,” Janice says. “We love having restaurants and shops available to us that we can walk to.”

The two chat about gaining free time, city life and river views.

Why did you choose Cuyahoga Falls?

Janice Juszczec: There’s lots of community activities. We’re both into fitness. … Really, the walkability and the beauty — being able to walk along the Cuyahoga River or sit outside at a restaurant right by the river. I can walk to several hikes in the area.

What trails do you like?

JJ: The Glens trail and the Gorge.

There’s enough of a challenge to them, but you still have the beauty of the river along the way.

What makes it a good city for an active lifestyle?

Mark Juszczec: First there is the Metro Parks, which run through the city. … There’s the Natatorium within a half-mile.

I don’t ride a bike, but there are bike trails. There are bike lanes. Cuyahoga Falls was set up to have these opportunities.

It’s kind of unique that there are so many in one small space. … [And] World Kickboxing Academy on State Road. …

I’ve been doing it for my entire life. It’s a huge stress relief. It’s an excuse to live a healthy lifestyle. The mental and physical benefits are off the charts.

What’s your favorite part about living in the Falls?

MJ: We lived in the Falls [in a house] in the early ‘90s.

The local business scene was not what it is now. There is a huge number of restaurants that have opened up.

How has downsizing changed your life?

MJ: You gain more time in the day. … There’s no yard to mow and no driveway to clear. That is fantastic. We especially choose places that have a little less storage space with the intent of not accumulating too much stuff.

By the time we had got out of the house, we had accumulated all of the things you accumulate when you live in a house for 25 years. As we were going through it … we started discovering things we forgot. It was like, This isn’t sentimental stuff. This is just junk. … I have no regrets.

PROMOTIONAL EDITORIAL

C U YA H O G A FA L L S

Testa Realty Saves Summit County Residents Thousands We all know of someone financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. While so many industry sectors have been hit hard, one of the bright spots has been the residential housing market.

“Summit County has seen a 32 percent increase in home sales in November and December of 2020 over the previous year. During that time, the average days on market fell from 69 to 40,” says Testa Cos. president Joel Testa. “The real estate industry has been one of the few around that has managed to thrive during these very difficult times. Because of this, we feel a moral obligation to our community to give back.”

Testa’s real estate firm has announced a program called Community Strong, which went live in 2020. If you have a home to sell in Summit County and are looking to buy another one in that same area, it is willing to list your home and assist you in purchasing your new home for free. That’s right — free. Testa is quick to point out that as much as it sounds too good to be true, there is no catch to the program.

“Our agents earn our fee from the seller of the new home our buyers purchase. So, there is already no cost to the buyers for our service,” he says. “By committing to let us help you with that transaction, we are willing to list your house for sale at no charge.”

Testa sees this as a way to not only give back to the community but also to invest in future clients.

“We aren’t just offering this to families that need to retain as much of the equity in their house as they can when they sell,” he says. “We are hoping that affluent sellers see the value and become new clients for life. So far we’ve managed to save some clients tens of thousands of dollars in each deal.”

For more info, contact Cassie Testa, director of residential sales and leasing at Testa Real Estate Group at cassietesta@ testacompanies.com or 330-945-HOME.

Testa Realty 330-945-HOME testacompanies.com

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

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C U YA H O G A FA L L S

by Alexandra Sobczak, photos by Ryanne Locker

Sneaker Head At Kicks n’ Cuts, you can revamp your hairstyle and shoe game.

says. “It’s a one-stop shop for anybody that is into fashion.”

At just 18, Marvin Montgomery Jr. accomplished his goal of owning a business in late 2020. The reality sunk in during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in February 2021 for his Cuyahoga Falls barbershop, clothing and sneaker store, Kicks n’ Cuts, as he was surrounded by city officials, his employees, his girlfriend and his family.

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“It was really surreal,” he says, “just being in my own store.”

Not long before, Montgomery was attending John Carroll University to study entrepreneurship, but he wasn’t enjoying taking remote classes during the pandemic. He dropped out and began brainstorming about his next step.

He dreamed of owning a business and realized his interests of hair, sneakers and clothing intersect. So he came up with the unique idea of combining an apparel store with a barbershop.

“I love to get haircuts. I get my haircut once a week, fresh lined up in a fade,” Montgomery says.

“I’m always buying shoes, and I’m always buying clothes.”

He immediately thought of the open upstairs space above Gilmores Nail Salon & Boutique, which his mom owns, and how it had previously been occupied by barbershops. Kick n’ Cuts now fills that void.

“A lot of families come in on the weekends. The wife might be downstairs in my mom’s boutique, and the husband might be upstairs getting a haircut,” he

He doesn’t cut hair, so he recruited two barbers, brothers Chris and Ron. He keeps the store stocked with sneakers like Nikes, Yeezys and Jordans by buying new shoes from customers and bigger suppliers. He’s also filling the contemporary store, which has a neon blue “We Made It” sign on a grass wall, with pieces like Nike and Jordan apparel.

He even has his own clothing line, Klimate, that he made while attending Woodridge High School. The Fr33ze collection focuses on fall and winter items like beanies and crewnecks, while Br33ze has spring and summer items like T-shirts and swimsuits. The whole line is a

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nod to Akron, with the K and The 330 references. And the whole idea is to help anyone feel fresh.

expand the store so there’s more room for inventory. While his path was nontraditional, he’s ready to keep growing Kicks n’ Cuts and doing what he loves.

“I have stuff my grandparents wear, my nephews wear,” he says. “My advice for younger entrepre“The age gap there’s like 7 to 85.” neurs is to not give up,” he says.

“It’s very easy to just go on social It turns out his instincts were media, see what other people are right about combining his doing and start to get discourthree interests. aged. But you can’t compare your chapter 1 to somebody “I see it time and time again. else’s chapter 5, 6, 7, 8.”

They get up out of the barber’s chair … and they want shoes, or they want some clothes,” he says.

“It just flows together.”

Shop in-person and online, 4111 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-356-1199, kicksncuts.com

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Submit Your RSVP for a Personal Tour St. Joseph Parish School’s curriculum includes X-STREAM learning, which like STEM, integrates content subject areas into cohesive learning projects based on real-world applications. SJS also offers classes in traditional subjects as well as art, music, band, PE, Spanish, and technology. SJS participates in community service projects and provides a sports program through CYO. It is conveniently located off State Route 8’s exit 5.

St. Joseph Parish School 1909 Third Street, Cuyahoga Falls 330-928-2151 saintjoe.org/school

Montgomery has plans to APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

15

Partnering with

Better Business Bureau of Akron

Celebrating

101 YEARS

WELCO M E

B B B S E RVICE S The Better Business Bureau has grown over the years, but it has kept its foundation of trust in the marketplace. Since starting with advertising self-regulation, BBB has added to its services based on consumer and business needs. The two pillars of BBB’s structure can be defined by its Accredited Business members and its consumer outreach.

Last April, we planned to gather in person for a celebration marking the 100th anniversary of the Better Business Bureau in the Akron, Kent, Medina, Wooster, Ashland and Mansfield communities — but 2020 had different plans. So this year, we are marking 101 years of promoting trust, ethics and integrity in the marketplace.

In 1920, Akron’s growth as a city was booming, thanks to the thriving rubber industry. Business leaders at the time had the foresight to make our community a reputable place to engage in business by founding the eighth BBB in the country, ahead of bigger cities like New York, Chicago and Boston.

We’ll always be grateful to our founders for establishing a high bar.

Today, our dedicated team is always here as a resource when you need help before, during or after a marketplace transaction.

If you are part of a BBB Accredited Business, please accept my heartfelt thanks for your commitment to serving your community honestly and ethically. Your industry is better because of you.

To everyone who understands the importance of living and serving truthfully, thank you for putting your heart and focus in the right place — in trust.

Gratefully,

Christy Page President and CEO, BBB|Akron

BBB Accreditation requires a monthly or annual fee for use of the seal and access to BBB benefits. Thanks to this financial support, your BBB can underwrite our Community Outreach programs and Educational Speakers while providing consumers with the following services free of charge.

CONSUMER PROTECTIONS BBB serves the community as an information-gathering tool. It is dedicated to helping build a stronger framework for the free enterprise system.

• Find A Business BBB collects and reports information about businesses to help consumers make informed decisions.

• Customer Reviews Customers can share their experiences through BBB Customer Reviews. Unlike some other review sites, BBB ensures the reviewer is an actual consumer.

• BBB Scam Tracker If a consumer faces a business or offer that sounds like an illegal scheme or fraud, BBB helps determine whether it’s a scam.

• Get a Quote Consumers can request a quote from a BBB Accredited Business.

• Investigations In response to consumer complaints and trends, BBB regularly conducts a variety of investigations, often uncovering fraudulent or undesirable business practices and alerting the public.

• Dispute Resolution BBB provides dispute resolution services to resolve complaints between consumers and businesses without going to court.

Icons by Freepik from flaticon.com

To our friends and neighbors,

ACCREDITATION The BBB brand is synonymous with trustworthiness. When consumers see the recognizable BBB seal attached to a business, they know the business maintains high ethical standards and that its business practices will meet or exceed expectations.

B B B H IS TO RY

1920-2021

BBB of Akron was established in 1920, just eight years after the first BBB was established in Minneapolis.

Thanks to the foresight of five founding members (including Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. and Firestone Tire and Rubber Co.), BBB of Akron began our local mission early on of ensuring truth in advertising and safeguarding consumers from swindlers and con artists. Over the years, BBB has been proud to work closely with consumer protection and government agencies at the state and local levels to report and stop scams to create a marketplace where consumers and businesses can work together and trust each other.

Today, BBB’s role is to remain neutral while working with businesses to resolve consumer complaints and providing

verified information about companies. Businesses that are accredited by BBB show their commitment to honesty in advertising, customer service and ethical business practices.

BBB was built on the foundation of trust and has constructed new layers and programs that are all still being carried out with the same values.

It is with great pride that BBB of Akron marks 101 years of helping businesses in the community and the millions of consumers around the world who buy from them. Your BBB staff is humbled to be an authority on marketplace trust and looks forward to continuing into the next 100 years! As a local organization of the international BBB mission, we are one of few that can honor this centennial milestone.

BBB thanks consumers and our Accredited Businesses for choosing trust and for choosing BBB for the past 101 years!

B B B TI M E LI N E WHERE WE BEGAN In 1920, honest advertisers faced similar dilemmas to those that honest advertisers face today — how to protect the use of advertising while also committing to truthfulness and letting the public know that a few businesses with poor ethics do not represent the practices of most. Your BBB was established to research truth in advertising.

WHERE WE ARE NOW Your BBB is committed to spreading the “torch of trust” throughout our local community, with presentations like Ethics in Action, Fighting Financial Fraud and the Laws of Life essay scholarship program in local schools. BBB also serves our community with a live chat and a phone line for people struggling with unreliable businesses and scams.

BBB promotes free accreditation of charitable organizations. BBB charity evaluations allow donors to learn the 20 Standards for Charitable Accountability and find out how to donate wisely.

WHERE WE ARE GOING BBB’s new initiatives include BBB4Good to celebrate businesses in the social enterprise space, BBB Torch Awards to recognize established companies and new entrepreneurs and BBB Trust Score to measure and build trust in businesses.

Now more than ever, BBB is a trusted resource for many in our community.

Better Business Bureau of Akron

BBB 101 Year Anniversary Summit 2020 marked the centennial anniversary for the Better Business Bureau of Akron, recognizing 100 years of service to the Greater Akron and surrounding communities. While we prepared to celebrate, the world was shaken up by the effects of COVID-19.

BBB of Akron wanted to ensure the safety of BBB Accredited Businesses and event attendees, so we canceled the April 2020 Spark to a Flame event. Even a year later, we are still considering the safety of the community — and transforming our anniversary event to a virtual platform. With the help of our sponsors, including Kent State University, and a keynote speaker, we are able to transform the original event plan into a completely virtual and unique experience, without losing our original mission of celebration.

BBB’s Anniversary Summit is being celebrated April 8th, 2021 as a virtual experience including an exclusive one-on-one fireside chat with Daymond John from “Shark Tank” and interview host Justin Hilton from Kent State University. Visit sparktoaflame.org for registration and more information.

A special thank you goes out to BBB of Akron’s sponsors that have graciously underwritten this event and have shown patience as it was transformed.

Speaker Sponsor The Kent State University College of Business Administration is the event’s Speaker Sponsor, presented by the Michael D. Solomon Entrepreneurship Speaker Series.

Kent State’s College of Business Administration is also hosting a student pitch competition to pair with BBB’s anniversary event. The Kent State Center for Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation hosts this annual pitch competition to help launch and nurture startups affiliated with the College of Business Administration’s entrepreneurship program. For more information on this program, visit kent.edu/business/cebipitch.

Flame Funder Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. Sun Sponsor DS Benefits Group Star Senders The Billow Co. LaunchNet AtNetPlus Lantern Lighters Summit Racing Equipment Westfield Bank Huntington Bank Signet Jewelers

222 W. Market St. Akron, OH 44303 330-253-4590 bbb.org/akron

Candle Contributors Kelly Insurance Agency Red Flag Reporting Timothy J. Truby, Roderick Linton Belfance Summit County Department of Job and Family Services CareWorksComp Spark Sponsor American Advertising Federation Akron

PARTING SHOT

[ by Wyat t Loy, photo cour tesy of Summit Memory/Akron-Summit County Library, Por tage Lakes Historical Society & Esther Wixon DeTray ]

“

Doggy Paddle Portage Lakes, 1950s

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Taking a canoe out on the lake is a timeless activity, and it’s even more enjoyable with a furry friend. Esther and Judy Wixon were doing just that — spending their day on the East Reservoir with their black lab — about 70 years ago. Take a trip to the reservoir with a canoe, kayak or paddleboard rental from nearby Killin’ It Kayaks, and you can re-create the moment. Another popular Portage Lakes spot to take your pets is Turkeyfoot Lake, which has a dedicated dog park with a dog swim area and also allows leashed pets on its hiking trails. Make it a day and bring Fido to Pick’s at PLX’s tiered waterfront patio for a well-earned treat.

APRIL 2021 | akronlife.com

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