Triathletes Liam Garrison, Logan Garrison, Maeve McDonald & Fiona Smith, photo by Mal McCrea
{ FEATURE }
TAKE ME TO THE LAKES
Dive in to all Portage Lakes has to offer. From kayaking on the peaceful North Reservoir to cruising the bustling Turkeyfoot Lake on a pontoon boat, these 13 destinations are filled with fun opportunities to enjoy the lakes.
On The Cover | 24 Portage Lakes | photo by Mal McCrea
KillinIt Kayaks paddleboard photo by Mal McCrea
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{ Publisher | Colin Baker | cbaker@bakermediagroup.com }
Heat Index
SIZZLING TEMPERATURES BRING BACK COOL MEMORIES.
Ohio’s summer heat is in full swing. Back in April, I couldn’t take another cold day. Now I find myself wishing for just one cooler afternoon, so I could be outside without sprinting back into the air conditioning. I honestly don’t know how I survived as a kid. We didn’t have central air, just a box fan in the bedroom window — and those hot summer nights were brutal.
Now I’m soft. I’m used to closed windows and air conditioning circulating throughout the house. My grandmother lived in Brimfield, and she refused to get air conditioning. I guess when it’s always been that way, you adapt. In the last years of her life, she was able to stay in her home, and a lot of us in the family would take turns spending the night with her. I remember some summer nights when every window in the house stayed open, the fan on full blast — and it still felt like a hot hair dryer blowing on you all night. The only real relief was a cold shower before bed, which bought you a nearly 30-minute break before you started sweating again.
When I was a kid, we had one small AC unit in the downstairs living room. On those really hot nights, we’d all pile in together and sleep in that one cool room. It was cramped, but it was better than tossing and turning in the heat.
One of the best summer traditions back then — one that felt like true salvation — was the arrival of the ice cream truck. I’ve lived in Oregon, Connecticut and Florida — and traveled plenty — but I’ve never experienced quite the same prevalence of ice cream trucks anywhere else.
We called the ice cream truck “Jingle Joe.” That little tune it played was magic. I had a finely tuned ear for it — the moment I heard that faint jingle in the distance, I’d go into high alert. We’d tear through the house, flipping couch cushions and begging our mom for spare change. The best moment was when you could tell the truck was getting closer. The worst moment was when we’d sprint barefoot through neighbors’ yards to chase the truck down, and it started getting farther away.
My favorite treat was the banana fudge Bomb Pop — fudge at the top and bottom, banana flavor in the middle. Still unbeatable.
These days, we still have an ice cream truck in our neighborhood. It doesn’t come every day, but when it does,
I still get excited. Just recently, my wife, my son, Bodhi, and I chased it down the street. Bodhi stood there for five minutes, frozen with indecision, while I grabbed my classic fudge Bomb Pop. No digging through the couch cushions this time — they take credit cards now. That’s probably a good thing, because each treat was over $5. Ouch. Still, it was worth it — for the taste, the memory and the joy of the chase.
Bodhi
SWEET TOUR
+3 SPLASH PADS
ELIZABETH PARK
Cool off during the sizzling days of late summer at the new splash pad at Elizabeth Park, which opened in Akron June 6. Enjoy 15 features, including sprayers, buckets that dump water, a floral structure that shoots out H20 and more. The 2,600 square-foot park also features basketball courts and picnic spots. Splash pad open till September, 10 a.m. -7 p.m. daily, Elizabeth Park, 40 E. Lods St., Akron
KIWANIS-MOORE PARK
Order a scoop of Banana Pudding at 2 Scoopz, or try a Munchie flurry with M&M’s, peanut butter cups, Oreos and sprinkles from Tasti Crème. They’re part of Stark Flavor’s Ice Cream Passport, which takes flavor discovery to another level by introducing you to 14 locally owned and operated Stark County ice cream shops. Participating ice cream shops include Taggarts Ice Cream, Pav’s Creamery North Canton, Kustard Korner, the Clever Cookie & Creamery and more. “The concept of our digital passports was to create an experience for local customers who want to support these businesses,” says Mike Sturdivant, owner of Stark Flavor, via an email.
Participants receive a free shirt. Enjoy scoops all summer — the passport is open till Sept. 1. starkflavor.com
This bright blue 2,100 square-foot splash pad features sprayers, buckets and a rotating wheel that splashes water. Also enjoy playground equipment and a snack shack at the park. Splash pad open till Sept. 14, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily, 35 W. Pioneer Trail, Aurora
BLUE TIP PARK
With half-circle sprayers, a slide, buckets and more, this new splash pad brings thrills all day long. It had its grand opening this May. The renovated park features new pickleball and tennis courts, along with an expansive, new modern playground. Splash pad open till Labor Day, around sunrise-around sunset daily, 300 Blue Tip Way, Wadsworth
HIDE & SEEK
Uncover mythical creatures hiding throughout Medina with the Gnomes on the Roam scavenger hunt. From 11 a.m. Aug. 11 till 5 p.m. Aug. 17, seek out at least 10 of the 20 concealed gnomes for a chance to win prizes. Main Street Medina gives you a headstart with a list of 20 participating businesses where you might spot gnomes with names like Adrian, Bea S. Wax, Beanie, Sparkletoots and more. Submit your entry for an Aug. 18 drawing. Prizes include gift cards from participating stores. mainstreetmedina.org
{ by Abby Kress, splash pad and ice cream photos by Abby Kress, gnome photos provided by Main Street Medina}
2 Scoopz
Elizabeth Park
{ Editor-in-Chief | Kelly Petryszyn | kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com, photo by Erin Gulling }
Along the Shore
DISCOVER TRANQUILITY IN PORTAGE LAKES.
After we arrived at Nauti Vine Winery’s lower patio, a great white heron swooped in, landing on the dock in Miller Lake. Senior graphic designer Erin Gulling, coowner Erica Wathey and I happened upon serendipitous timing. It was a hot but quiet day in Portage Lakes, and a sole fisherman was casting a line from a boat. It was an idyllic setting that you would never know existed just driving by the upperlevel tasting room on South Main Street. This slice of tranquility is a part of what the Portage Lakes area has to offer.
“People say they can’t believe that this close to Akron — they found this. They call this a little hidden gem,” says Wathey.
This outdoor issue focuses on one of the Akron area’s biggest assets: Portage Lakes. With 13 bodies of water within the state park proper, there is so much to discover. From pontoon cruises to kayaking, we highlight ways you can enjoy the lakes on pg. 24.
The Portage Lakes State Park is the anchor of the area. For a story on it, Gulling and I joined park manager Michael Studeny on a tour. We hopped in a gator, revving past wildlife and lush plants.
We stopped at the waterfront dog park, and Gulling snapped a photo of a pooch taking a dip. Studeny pointed out an osprey, as well as a work boat used by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to dredge the lakes — keeping them deep and navigable. Most are about 12 to 15 feet deep, but some areas can extend to 40 to 50 feet deep. To my surprise, we reached a stretch of the Shoreline Trail by off-roading, taking a bumpy gator ride through the forested trail to the waterfront. It was worth it — stand-up paddleboarders passed by right as we arrived. I noticed a picnic table just a couple of steps from the water and envisioned a peaceful meal among the beautiful scenery. Studeny shared that the Shoreline Trail links to the park’s other trails, such as the 1-mile Rabbit Hill Loop and 1-mile Planet Walk Trail, which helps hikers visualize the distance between planets as they walk through a representation of the solar system. We stopped by the archery range, zoomed around the
short Bird and Butterfly Garden Trail and went past the observatory center, where someone was looking into a telescope. At the boat launch, we saw cormorants fly by.
The tour also took us behind the construction fence surrounding the new visitor center, opening this October. Staring through window openings and porches, you could catch an incredible view of the beach. Renderings depict sun shades over tables on a patio that walks right out to the beach. Studeny is proud that there will be an ADA accessible ramp, giving wheelchair users access to the beach, and Mobi-mats to ease wheelchairs onto the sand. These adaptations open up the asset to all people.
“Getting people safe and clean areas to experience nature and create memories is what I love most,” Studeny says. Soak up the last days of summer by safely hiking, boating, swimming and enjoying Portage Lakes with our guide. Find your own slice of serenity.
{ by Cameron Gorman, photos by Erin Gulling and Vaneeda Sibounheuang }
Michael Weber
SINGER, GUITARIST & COMPOSER
You can’t take your eyes off of Michael Weber. Clad in colorful, retro-inspired custom suits, the guitarist, composer, record producer, singer and songwriter explodes with transcendent energy onstage. All movement and emotion, Weber, a 27-year-old self-taught musician, wails on the guitar and belts out tracks born of a wide variety of musical influences, including ‘50s blues and ‘70s punk.
“You have to have some sort of character that you play that’s a hyper version of yourself,” says the Michael Weber Show frontman. “I want to deliver. I want to put it all out there.”
Performing since the fourth grade, Weber has shared the stage with acts such as Ace Frehley, Gin Blossoms and the Wallflowers. He was the winner of MTV’s “Amazingness,” hosted by Ohio native Rob Dyrdek, in 2018 and has composed film scores for projects such as “Last Night at Terrace Lanes” and “Satanic Hispanics.”
“I focus on the idea of trying to be the best version of myself and deliver every single night to the most powerful degree,” Weber says. “I make music from a perspective of … I have to do it because it’s who I am.”
Singles include “Society’s Crush,” a moonlit bite of psychedelic rock, the bubbly, nostalgic “Rear View Mirror” and the driving, guitar-heavy “Golden Days (Slipping Away),” which has over 23,000 Spotify streams. Weber has released several albums and EPs, including 2024’s “Up Until Now” and “Stereogram.” He is currently working on a new record.
“The only way that we can live forever is to create something and have that be our voice for generations to come,” he says. “I kind of see my creations as being my voice in perpetuity. And hopefully, I can create works that are good enough that they can last. That’s the dream.”
Akron Life sat down for an interview with Weber in his Hudson studio, discussing showmanship, inspiration and the meaning of making music. See the Michael Weber Show live Aug. 30 at Akron PizzaFest at Lock 3 and Sept. 6 at the Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival in Akron.
AKRON LIFE: HOW DID YOU FIRST BECOME INTERESTED IN MUSIC?
MICHAEL WEBER: I feel like it found me as much as I found it. I come from a line of back line technicians. My dad, whose most successful gigs [were] touring with Mountain, opening up for Deep Purple in the ‘80s. … My dad eventually went
on to work for Wham! on their big ’85 stadiums tour. … My uncle has been doing it since then. He’s currently on the road with Bruce Springsteen. So, there was always people that had involvement in music that were around — not necessarily musicians, but there was always a guitar that would be leaning against the couch somewhere.
AL: WHAT DID YOU LISTEN TO GROWING UP?
MW: I had watched so much of these VHS tapes of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jimi Hendrix and stuff like that, that my parents ended up buying me my own television with my own VCR. They could watch regular television, and I could watch these live concert performances over and over and over again. … When I was a baby, my parents would play “Angie” by the
[Rolling] Stones, because I would sob every single time they’d play it. … I’ve always felt something with music, I still feel something with music, and I’ll quit playing when I stop feeling something.
AL: WHAT’S GOING THROUGH YOUR HEAD WHILE YOU’RE PERFORMING?
MW: When it’s good, absolutely nothing. Onstage is the only time you’re absolutely cleansed from any thought, good or bad, because it’s kind of like, when you’re playing well, the world is working at half-speed. … You’re just letting it pour out of you.
AL: WHAT DOES BEING AN ARTIST MEAN TO YOU?
MW: At the end of the day, being an artist is just making something. … As long as it’s you, and you’re putting yourself into it, then you’re essentially an artist. … Realistically, I think the world would be a great place if everybody was an artist of some kind.
AL: YOU HAVE A UNIQUE SENSE OF STYLE.
MW: I’m definitely a fan of vintage fashion, being a certain amount of the golden era of rock and roll music has always been an inspiration to me. Glam rock and psychedelic rock and stuff like that, where people dressed in really bright and flashy clothes, I found that to be visually appealing. … Sometimes you’re playing a place and it’s 2 o’clock in the afternoon, it’s bright out, so no light’s gonna have any impact. … You have to kind of carry the aesthetic on your back. … That’s why I care a lot about the fashion of it, because I can’t always control my environment, but I can always control the way that I visually represent myself.
AL: WHAT DOES INSPIRATION FEEL LIKE?
MW: It’s the reason why we do this. I don’t do any drugs, I’ve never done any drugs. But the drug that every artist chases after is the feeling when you finally write something that you at least deem good enough to share. The inspiration — and trying to work and develop and foster that inspiration — that is the highest of highs that art can create.
photo provided by Massillon Museum
Through 8/3 “Hildur Ásgeirsdóttir
Jónsson: Micro/ Macro”
Ohio-based artist Hildur Ásgeirsdóttir
Jónsson, a Kent State alumna, creates beautiful painted weavings — the designs are reflections of the landscapes of her home country, Iceland. This show is a solo presentation of her work. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff & all on Sundays, otherwise general admission $10. kent.edu/museum
Through 8/3 “Maxmillian Peralta: Flat Affect”
Through 8/10 “She Said, She Said: Contemporary Women Artists” Behold a multitude of works from contemporary female artists, such as Genesis Tramaine, Natalie Czech and Cindy Sherman, at this Akron Art Museum exhibit. The show celebrates work from women dating from the late 1960s to the present and includes over 30 artists in its lineup. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. & Thursday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Free on Thursdays, otherwise $12 nonmember general adult admission. akronartmuseum.org
Through 9/13 “Summer Exhibitions”
Through 9/28 “The Hepburn Style: Katharine and Her Designers”
See paintings from an artist selected for a CAN Triennial Award exhibition. His paintings allude to the tension, dread and fear experienced by his generation. 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 admission. massillonmuseum.org AUG 10 • 7:30PM
Explore summer exhibitions, including “Covered in Snow” by Katelynn Rogers, group show “Though We May Roam” and the “Overdose Awareness Exhibition” in partnership with Summit County Public Health. Summit Artspace, 140 E. Market St., Akron. Fridays noon-7 p.m. & Saturdays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. summitartspace.org
Browse a showcase of actress Katharine Hepburn’s style with this immersive exhibit. It includes examples of Hepburn’s personal wardrobe, costumes worn by the actress and items from the Kent State University Museum collection made by designers she admired. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff & all on Sundays, otherwise general admission $10. kent.edu/museum
3 • 7:30PM
Through 10/12 “Juxtaposed: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future”
View ceramics, paintings and drawings by artists who are connected to the Columbus College of Art & Design, the Cranbrook Academy of Art, Kent State University and The University of Akron. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday–Saturday, Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free admission. massillonmuseum.org
Through 10/30 Kids in the Garden
In collaboration with Let’s Grow Akron, Summit Metro Parks presents Kids in the Garden, a series in which kids complete hands-on gardening activities. From sowing seeds to harvesting and cooking fresh produce, this program helps kids understand the origin of their food. Each week includes a game or craft, a garden activity and a snack. Summit Lake Nature Center, 411 Ira Ave., Akron. 3:30-4:30 p.m. letsgrowakron.org
Through 8/23/26 “Sparkle: The Style and Jewelry of Aileen Mehle”
Browse the dresses and jewelry of widely-syndicated society columnist Aileen Mehle at this exhibit. Designers she wore included Oscar de la Renta, Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, Tiffany & Co. and more. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff & all on Sundays, otherwise general admission $10. kent.edu/museum
“Juxtaposed” photo provided by
Massillon Museum,
“Sparkle” photos provided by
Kent
State University Museum
8/1 & 8/2
Piazza After Dark at Gervasi Vineyard
Get your glow on during a night filled with music and cocktails from Gervasi Vineyard. Hear DJ Nick Duve Aug. 1 and DJ Christian Dela Vega Aug. 2 spin tunes from 9 p.m. to midnight. Enjoy a featured cocktail with glowing ice cubes, photo ops and exclusive perks. The first 120 guests to arrive receive an exclusive glow tube and Gervasi merch. Gervasi Vineyard, the Piazza, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 9 p.m.midnight. Bar open till midnight, kitchen open till 11 p.m. Tickets not required. gervasivineyard.com
8/7, 8/21 & 8/28 Summer Serenades in the Park
Enjoy live outdoor performances from small groups of Canton Symphony Orchestra musicians at Minerva Municipal Park, Canton Garden Center and Tam O’Shanter Park. Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. starkparks.com
8/8 A Taste of August: Five-Course Wine Dinner
Savor a five-course menu — from Gervasi Vineyard executive chef Ryan Bowen — at this lavish event. Each course is paired with a premium Gervasi wine. Sample spicy shrimp and scallop ceviche, paired with Passione, tomato vol au vent, paired with Velluto, cucumber watermelon salad, paired with Amore, and more. While you eat, enjoy live music by the Elegance String Quartet. Gervasi Vineyard, the Villa Grande, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 6 p.m. $125. gervasivineyard.com
8/9 Richard Fry Memorial Derby
Kids ages 4 to 15 can cast a line at this free fishing derby. Bring your own pole. Bait is provided. Food and drinks available for purchase. Magnolia Flouring Mills, 261 N. Main St., Magnolia. Registration 7:30 a.m.; fishing 8-11 a.m. Free. starkparks.com
images provided by
Gervasi Vineyard
8/9 Fun Fest
Games, sports, performances, music, health and safety booths, giveaways, characters, art activities, inflatables, trucks, bookmobile and more for all ages! It is hosted by MCTV, Massillon Museum and Downtown Massillon Association. Duncan Plaza and Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org
8/10 Sip of Gervasi: A Tasting Event
Travel throughout Italy without leaving Gervasi Vineyard with this tour of Italian flavor. Visit six themed tasting stations — each is inspired by a region in Italy — to try paired bites and wine pours. Guests receive a logo stemmed wine glass and Gervasi Passport. Complete it to receive 20 percent off all purchases in the Marketplace. Gervasi Vineyard, the Pavilion, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. Timed entry in 30-minute waves from 1-4:30 p.m. Open house Distillery & Cave tours 2-6 p.m. $49. gervasivineyard.com
Fun Fest photo provided by Massillon Museum, winery
photos provided by
Gervasi Vineyard
8/10 & 8/24 Stewart Manor House Tour
Step inside the 1920s-era Stewart Manor House and explore unique architecture, hidden spaces and family history. Quail Hollow Park, 13480 Congress Lake Ave., Hartville. 2-3 p.m. $5 per person or $20 per family (cash only). No registration required. starkparks.com
8/12 Discovery Days: Veterans Park
Enjoy free family fun with Stark Parks — including kayak try-its, wildlife encounters, beekeeping, nature exploration and a scavenger hunt. Plain Township’s Veterans Park, 1714 Schneider St. NE, Canton. 5-7 p.m. Free. starkparks.com
8/14 In the Heartland: Music of the Michael Stanley Band Concert
Part of the Gervasi Musica Concert Series in the vineyard, this concert revives the music of the Michael Stanley Band with a performance that recalls sold-out Blossom Music Center shows of the ‘80s. A cash bar is available to purchase drinks. Doors open at 7 p.m., concert begins at 8 p.m. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 8 p.m. $41 premium, $31 general. gervasivineyard.com
8/8 Fencing Match: Round One
Experience fiery duels of passion and precision in this dazzling concert of double concertos by Bach, Telemann and more. It features violinists Alan Choo and Susanna Perry Gilmore. The Bath Church: United Church of Christ, 3980 W. Bath Road, Bath. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $12-$80. apollosfire.org
clockwise: photos by Stefan Cohen, Sisi Burn and Black Valve Productions and portraits provided by Apollo’s Fire
8/16–9/28 “Greg Martin: Memento Mori”
Greg Martin’s mixed-media installation is a meditation on the transitory nature of this world and reflection on the inherent beauty of change, loss and endurance. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org
8/21 Swingbone featuring Dawna Rae Warren Concert Groove along to music reminiscent of that of the early Jazz Crusaders, enjoying jazz standards, cool blues
grooves and big band classics, with this concert from Swingbone — a tenor sax- and trombone-fronted band. Gervasi Vineyard, the Pavilion, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. Doors open at 7 p.m., concert begins at 8 p.m. $27 premium, $17 general. gervasivineyard.com
8/23 Bigfoot Trail Challenge and Adventures
Take on Bigfoot-themed obstacles during this fun, family-friendly 5K adventure at Fry Family Park. Run, walk, or jog the trail. Fry Family Park, 2533 Farber St. SE, Magnolia. 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., race starts between 11 &11:30 a.m. Free. starkparks.com
8/24 Orienteering Challenge
Test your navigation skills in a 90-minute treasure-hunt-style course at Quail Hollow Park. It is hosted by NEOOC. Bring a whistle and compass. Quail Hollow Park, 13480 Congress Lake Ave., Hartville. Registration 10:30 a.m.; event starts 12:15 p.m. $15. neooc.com
8/28 Cleveland Keys Concert
Cheer on dueling pianos at this highenergy concert from the Cleveland Keys. An interactive show, this concert includes song requests sure to get you on your feet dancing. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. Doors open 7 p.m., concert begins 8 p.m. $27 premium, $17 general. gervasivineyard.com
8/28 Soup at Six: “The Pan-American Exposition”
In this illustrated program, director of education and membership
Ally Carlson explores the history and legacy of the Pan-American Exposition, which took place in 1901. She also explores the eight days between the shooting of President William McKinley and his death. McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. 6 p.m. $25, reservation deadline Aug. 21. mckinleymuseum.org
8/29-8/31 Made In Ohio Art & Craft Festival
Browse the wares of 195 vendors from across the state of Ohio, and take home handcrafted items, art, gifts and more. Try local food, sip beer and wine and listen to entertainment, including a performance by the Akron Symphonic Winds. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Akron. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults $12, children 3-12 $6, free for members. madeinohiofestival.com
Cleveland Keys photo provided by
Gervasi Vineyard,
Made in Ohio
photos provided by
Hale Farm & Village
8/8 & 8/9 Magnolia
Mills Tours
Explore the historic 1834 Magnolia Flouring Mills, featuring vintage machinery and canal history, during the Magnolia Canal Days Festival. Indoor and outdoor tour. Magnolia Flouring Mills, 261 N. Main St., Magnolia. Aug. 8 4-7 p.m.; Aug. 9 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. starkparks.com
photos provided by Stark Parks
OpenWater Take Me to
Just after 9 a.m. on a sweltering 90-plus degree June morning, swimmers, fishermen, stand-up paddleboarders and sunbathers are already out embracing Turkeyfoot Lake at the 411-acre Portage Lakes State Park.
“All the things that we have here are really special,” says park manager Michael Studeny.
The Portage Lakes area dates back to the prehistoric era — mastodon bones were found there. Several of the lakes were formed as a result of glacial activity — ice melted in depressions, forming kettle lakes. It was an important trade center for Native Americans because it sits on a continental divide where some water flows north, reaching Lake Erie, and some flows south, reaching the Ohio River. The system converges with
the Tuscarawas River, as well as the Ohio Canal, near the Long Lake area. During the canal era, some lakes were manmade as feeder reservoirs for the canals. Some were later used to support industry. Companies such as Firestone, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. and Cargill used Portage Lakes to fuel their businesses.
“Having that constant water source helped them to achieve national notoriety and worldwide success,” Studeny says.
The state park opened in 1949. There are now 13 bodies of water in the state park proper, with the main chain including Long Lake, Turkeyfoot Lake and East, West and North reservoirs. Almost 2,600 acres of water encompasses the lakes.
“They’re fairly all interconnected and portage-able with kayaks and several
of them, you can go on a boat and get from Turkeyfoot to West Reservoir,” Studeny says.
Some lakes are manmade, including East and West reservoirs.
Portage Lakes State Park is located at Turkeyfoot and Rex lakes. The biggest draw is the 900-foot sandy beach that also features nearby sand volleyball courts, picnic areas and a playground. There are several fishing spots and docks. Spot dogs taking a dip in a swim area at the dog park. Nearby, compete on an 18hole championship disc golf course. Sharpen your archery skills at a range, aiming for targets 10 to 50 yards away. The Astronomy Club of Akron opened the Akron area’s first public observatory in the state park in 1988.
stories by Claire Duber, Cameron Gorman, Abby Kress and Kelly Petryszyn
photos by Erin Gulling and illustration by Cameron Gorman
the Lakes
Dive in to all Portage Lakes has to offer. From kayaking the peaceful North Reservoir to cruising the bustling Turkeyfoot Lake on a pontoon boat, these 13 destinations are filled with fun opportunities to enjoy the lakes.
“All the things that we have here are really special.”
- Michael Studeny
You can go to the center today and use a computerized telescope to see detailed views of planets, the moon and more during programs. Stroll a short Bird and Butterfly Garden Trail to go past blooms and bluebird feeders.
“You’ll see purples, blues, oranges. They get really pretty,” Studeny says. “We have a lot burst out in the spring and then we’ll have bursts in the fall.”
Just steps from the water, hike the 5-mile Shoreline Trail for upclose views of boaters, homes and paddlers. You might spot shorebirds like ospreys, cormorants, diving ducks, hooded mergansers and more. Take a break at a waterfront bench or picnic table.
“It’s right along the water’s edge so people can always see the water,” Studeny says. “There’s areas to rest, sit and just listen to the birds.”
Learn more about the area’s roots with the Freedom Trail, which is set to open at the state park by early August. It highlights how Portage Lakes were used to transport freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad.
“There was interconnection. There was the ability to harbor and move folks,” Studeny says.
Soon, people can learn more about Portage Lakes at a visitor center,
which is slated for an October ribbon cutting. The nearly 6,000-squarefoot center is situated right beside Turkeyfoot beach and features large windows to take in stunning views. Inside, see a topographical map of how water flows through the lakes and learn about a canal and dams program that keeps the waterways flowing today. Artful representations of purple martins swooping overhead tell the story of how Portage Lakes is the Purple Martin Capital of Ohio. There is also a sensory-friendly area with adjusted lighting and noise control. For the first time at the park, there will be flush bathrooms, which will be
at the visitor center. There will also be changing and shower areas.
The center maximizes lakefront views with porches and a lower level patio featuring shaded seating — as well as a snack shop. It’s a state-of-the-art marvel to help people enjoy Portage Lakes even more.
“Having free access to natural resources like the lakes and the land allows anybody the opportunity to have an experience with nature,” Studeny says. //KP
5031 Manchester Road, Akron, ohiodnr.gov
Fish, bird and paddle on 825 acres of water at Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park. In 1936, the Federal Works Progress Administration created it to support Akron’s industry. It’s the largest body of water in the Summit Metro Parks and has 16 miles of shoreline. Cast your line to catch Northern pike, walleye, bluegill and yellow perch, or wait until winter to ice fish. Camp out under the stars at a 29-site shorefront campground bordered by wetlands. Walk a 3.1-mile round-trip waterside trail. Launch a boat or hop onto a stand-up paddleboard and see the colors of sunset reflect off the water. Home to eagles and osprey, Nimisila is also a key stop on the migratory route of thousands of purple martins. During August, spot these mesmerizing birds as they roost on reed-covered sandbars in the reservoir. Kayak out for a front-row seat — in flight, they form astonishing patterns in the air. //CG Green, summitmetroparks.org
photos provided by Summit Metro Parks
Classic
“There’s a heritage of wooden boats here.”
- John Vorhies
photos by D. Emery
Captains
See gleaming antique and classic boats on the water of Portage Lakes at the 49th annual Portage Lakes Antique & Classic Boat Show Aug. 9.
Organized and managed by the North Coast Ohio Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society, this show allows visitors to get up close to antique boats — those built before 1941 — and classic boats — those built after 1941 and before 2001.
“We love the wood boats and the classic fiberglass boats — and that there’s an appreciation for those throughout the world of the artistry that it took to build these things and to maintain them and keep them operating,” says Gil Maringer, chairman of the boat show and president of the chapter.
Held at 530 Portage Lakes Drive on West Reservoir, the show is the second longest-running antique and classic boat show in the country.
“Over 70 businesses support us every year and donate to put on this activity, because it’s offered free, and we want the public to enjoy the surroundings, our lakes and also see these beautiful things,” Maringer says.
A large part of the boat show’s draw is the craftsmanship that goes into the creation and upkeep of antique and classic boats. Attendees can take in a wide array of watercraft styles.
“When you take a piece of wood and are able to twist it and bend it into a barrel back — you
can stand there and look at that for a half hour and ask yourself, How did the artisan do that?” Maringer says.
“And then you get into the engines themselves. And some of these engines, they’re still running 75 years later, because they’ve been so well maintained and they were made well.”
The club hopes to attract interest from younger generations — in the past, the show has drawn up to 3,000 people.
“It’s been an important part of the Portage Lakes since there’s a heritage of wooden boats here,” says John Vorhies, who has been participating in the show since 1988. “It still draws a big crowd.”
Each boat, Maringer says, has an interesting history. One of Maringer’s boats attracted interest from a passing man, who realized that it had once been his boat.
“It’s that kind of history that really inspires people,” Maringer says.
Held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. rain or shine, the show features over 30 antique and classic boats, representing 15 manufacturers. Browse a for-sale lot, and marvel at boats both in and out of the water. At 2 p.m., all the boats fire up their engines at once.
“The sound of the original engine running through the copper exhaust pipes can be exhilarating,” Maringer says. “They’re all finished, and they look great. It’s just overall a great experience.” //CG
Built in 1927, the historic lakefront Tudor House mansion still stands today on over 10 acres of lakefront land. The picturesque wedding and event center also hosts public events. Enjoy idyllic views of Turkeyfoot Lake while taking in concerts on select Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Bring a blanket or chair and snacks to listen to traditional Celtic band On The Lash Aug. 12. Then, on Aug. 27, catch Massillon-based DJ’s Rock ‘n Roll Big Band performing classic doo-wop, Motown and rock hits. //CD 655 Latham Lane, New Franklin, 330-603-6621, masonscove.com
photo by Katie Smith
Relax Rent&
Under a summer sky, KillinIt Kayaks owner Andy Kilgore unloads standup paddleboards from his truck bed, setting each one near the launch at Portage Lakes’ Old State Park. An excited family waits nearby, ready to try out the popular rentals and the tranquil experience they bring.
“I know what draws me to the water — it’s literally good times and sunshine and let’s get out there and just relax,” Kilgore says. “Water is so relaxing. … There’s no better way to decompress.”
Both kayaks and paddleboards are available for rental through KillinIt. Paddleboards require you to paddle in a standing position, and kayaks allow seated users to paddle a one or twoperson boat.
“It’s the ultimate freedom,” Kilgore says.
The idea for the business first materialized when Kilgore saw a kayaker paddle up to a bar in Portage Lakes around 2016. He wondered why there were no kayak rental businesses in the area at the time — and decided to start his own. The full-service business opened in May 2017. Each season runs from May to September.
“We will drop the kayaks off at your house. For the lakers, we do the concierge service, we’ll bring them right down to your dock,” Kilgore says. “We take payments right on the water.”
Visiting customers can also head to the eyecatching, red-and-white painted KillinIt shop to rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. Kilgore delivers the rentals to destinations, including North Reservoir or Old State Park, where a kayak launch awaits along Turkeyfoot Lake.
For paddlers who want to explore for an hour or so, North Reservoir offers quiet respite. For those who want to see attractions, including businesses and houses, Kilgore recommends Old State Park — there, utilize a pavilion, restrooms and a swing set. Spot frogs, turtles, great blue herons, Canadian geese, ducks, trumpeter swans and more.
The calming nature of water brings people together. Kilgore recalls a father and daughter, who came into the shop while fighting. By the time they returned from their peaceful trip, they’d managed to make up.
“I just love to make people happy. That’s been the basis of this business,” says Kilgore. “It’s a light feeling when you’re in here. I just want people to experience that from the beginning to the end. And it’s literally what fills me up. … I’m providing a service to the community that people love.” //CG 3803 State St., Akron, 330-612-5950, killinitkayaks.com
photos by Mal McCrea
“There’s no better way to decompress.”
- Andy Kilgore
Explore on your own terms thanks to Shenanigans on Portage Lakes. This service allows you to be the boss of your own pontoon boat experience. “Our goal is to deliver an opportunity to act like you own your own boat,” says co-pilot Jon Laliberte via an email. Whether you want a relaxing boat ride or dockside dropoffs for entertainment, Shenanigans can curate a trip for you in its pontoon boat that can take up to six customers. Fish from the boat, pull over and watch a sunset or float in inner tubes — how you embrace your lake time is up to you. “Customers should expect the opportunity to relax — to enjoy what’s right out in front of them and soak it all in,” Laliberte says. “Their shoulders will drop. Their breathing will ease and for a while, they can just let go. … The water makes it all feel better.” //AK
photo provided by Shenanigans on Portage Lakes
Bon Voyage
A gentle breeze ruffles your hair as you ride on a Portage Lakes Cruises pontoon boat — moving slowly enough to take in the marvels in the wide expanse around you. From one-of-a-kind houses to wildlife, Portage Lakes Cruises customers have the opportunity to see a variety of eyecatching scenery.
“It’s a two-hour ride to see all seven lakes on this chain, which just makes it a really fun venue anyway because things change as you go around,” says owner Judy Narducci from the back of one of Portage Lakes Cruises’ boats.
Founded in 2013, Portage Lakes Cruises is now in its 12th season and boasts a fleet of eight boats and 11 captains.
“They can get up and walk around,” Narducci says of pontoon customers. “You can fish off these. You can have dinner. You can dance.”
From May to around September, choose from several specialized cruises, including private cruises, public cruises and private cruises with dinner options. Up to six people can enjoy dinner on a boat, complete with a tablecloth, china, candlelight, coffee or tea and dessert service. Portage Lakes Cruises orders its meals — such as steak and pasta — from Domenic’s Rose Villa in Portage Lakes. On Mondays, relish Barberton chicken. You can choose your dishes — or bring your own dinner and just get dessert and coffee.
“It’s like being in a restaurant, except you have this instead of another table two feet away,” adds Kevin Wise, one of Portage Lakes Cruises’ captains, gesturing toward the water.
Portage Lakes Cruises can cruise seven Portage Lakes, including West Reservoir, East Reservoir, Turkeyfoot Lake and Mud Lake.
“There’s a lot of history here.” - Judy Narducci
Owner Judy Narducci photos by Mal McCrea
“The first time they come out here, they really should do it on a tour so that they can see everything and hear everything,” Narducci says. “If they take out a boat and just rent it and not know how to drive it or dock it, or the rules of the lakes, somebody has to be paying attention all the time, and they may not know where to go.”
Cruisers can choose to be dropped off and picked up from docks and destinations such as Nauti Vine Winery — or learn about the area.
“Our captains can talk as much as you want. They can talk the whole route and just do a tour, or they can sit quietly and just answer questions,” Narducci says. “There’s a lot of history here, including more current history.”
While cruising, spot purple martins — Portage Lakes is a spring and summer home to a significant number of these migratory birds — as well as great blue herons, ducks, turtles and fish. Admire the stately homes and mansions that surround the waterfront. Time spent cruising on Portage Lakes is relaxing, restorative and interesting.
“Warm weather and water,” Narducci says, “I just can’t imagine wanting anything more.” //CG
Listen to live music as you cruise past nature and stunning homes aboard the Portage Princess. An enclosed 40-passenger boat, the Princess features windows that can open or close as you tour West Reservoir, Turkeyfoot Lake, Rex Lake and Mud Lake while a musical act performs. “It is a very casual atmosphere where people feel free to move around, visit in their own group or meet new people. It often inspires people to dance, sing and clap,” says Judy Narducci, owner of Portage Lakes Cruises, via an email. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and nonalcoholic drinks — bottled water and light snacks are complimentary. Come early before departure and order from J&J Food Truck, selling grilled cheese, beef hot dogs, fried bologna and more. On Aug. 14, Bobby and Linda Martin perform ‘60s and ‘70s favorites with guitar and keyboard. Enjoy a fun blues, jazz and classic rock vibe from local favorite John Markovic, performing Aug. 28. //AK
Old State Park, 4357 State Park Drive, New Franklin, 330-760-0270, portagelakescruises.com
Linda and Bobby Martin photo provided by Portage Lakes Cruises
Power of Three
Adrenaline — according to 15-year-old triathlete Liam Garrison — is part of what makes competing in a tri-sport race so exciting.
“It feels good when you’re done,” Liam says. “Whenever I do stuff after it, I’m able to focus more on what I’m doing after I use athleticism.” Liam’s triathlete twin brother, Logan, agrees. “You know that you’re improving when you push yourself,” he says. “You’re getting stronger. You’re getting faster, more endurance.”
On Sept. 7, the Garrisons are competing in the Portage Lakes Triathlon & Duathlon — an event in which participants race through and around portions of the 411acre Portage Lakes State Park. Participants can choose to compete in either a triathlon, in which they swim, bike and run, a duathlon, in which they run, bike and run, or an aquabike course, which consists of a swimming portion and then a biking portion.
“That challenge of putting all three together … when they accomplish all of that, there is that sense of accomplishment and a sense of emotional, physical and spiritual well-being that comes with putting your mind to doing something and then finishing it,” says Craig Thompson, event director of HFP Racing, which organizes the Portage Lakes race.
Both Liam and Logan are participants in the Kids That Tri Cleveland nonprofit, which gives kids everything they need to succeed when training for and competing in a triathlon — including coaching, team uniforms, swim instruction, bicycles, wet suits and more.
“It’s not a mainstream sport, so they may not know about it,” says Eric Gibb, a triathlete and head coach of Kids That Tri Cleveland. “It’s nice to be able to bring them together.”
Triathletes Logan Garrison, Maeve McDonald, Fiona Smith and Liam Garrison, photos by Mal McCrea
photos by Erin Gulling
Beat the heat this summer at the 900-foot sandy beach at Turkeyfoot Lake in Portage Lakes State Park. Turkeyfoot Lake is also a hot spot for fishing, with species including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, musky and channel catfish. Play fun sports like sand volleyball and basketball within the park. To get out on the water, rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, hydrobike or peddleboat from the nearby Dusty’s Landing II. //CD 5031 Manchester Road, Akron, ohiodnr.gov
Those participating in all three legs of the race swim, bike and run to the finish line. Gibb, who has raced Portage Lakes several times, is set to compete this year alongside some of his students, including Logan and Liam.
“We all train together — and even though you’re competing against the clock and trying to better what you do — you’re out on the course, you can cheer each other on,” Gibb says.
Held within or around the state park, the race features a swim course, a bike course on a surrounding open road and a running course.
“It has … a great lake, nice lake to
swim in,” says Thompson. “It’s unique in that there are some challenging hills for athletes to climb on the bike.”
At this year’s Portage Lakes triathlon, Logan hopes to beat his 2024 time of 1 hour, 52 minutes and 26 seconds in the high school division. Liam hopes to take home first place in the high school division.
“Triathlon especially allows the kids to realize they can do things that they may not have thought that they were able to do, like swim 750 meters open water, bike for [22K] nonstop, run a 5K — put it all together,” says Gibb. //CG hfpracing.com
Enjoy country club vibes at affordable prices at the public waterfront Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links. Surrounded by Mud Lake, Turkeyfoot Lake and West Reservoir, the 18-hole, scenic public golf course offers four sets of tees to accommodate golfers of all ages and skill levels. If you’re looking for an excellent view, try tee No. 6 — the highest point on the golf course, it boasts a downhill tee shot. Grab food, such as hot dogs and cheeseburgers, on-site. Help the course celebrate 100 years with a special golf event Aug. 4. //CD 294 W. Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, 330-644-5971, turkeyfootgolf.com
photos by Erin Gulling
Hidden Oasis
“The sky lights up in so much color. It’s beautiful.” - Joe Wathey
La Dolce Vita, meat and cheese plate, lobster flatbread pizza and Mela Verde
photos by Erin Gulling
See a fisherman in a boat casting a line, a great white heron landing on a wooden dock and a leafy green treeline reflecting on water as you sip Skinny Mermaid moscato on Nauti Vine Winery’s secluded patio, situated right beside Miller Lake.
“It’s like you’re in your own little oasis,” says co-owner Erica Wathey. “You’re gonna hear the birds going crazy … osprey diving, there’s a few pairs of swans, lots of geese.”
When Joe Wathey and Erica bought the waterfront gem in 2013, it was anything but. Despite its underwater docks and overgrown vegetation blocking its waterfront views, the Portage Lakes couple saw the former Bob’s Lake Bar property’s potential as a lakeside winery.
“I grew up making wine with my dad,” says co-owner Joe. “It’s always been a passion of mine.” They embarked on an about $1.3 million renovation — excavating the land to make room for a flat dockside patio. Now there are four docks, as well as an upper and lower patio — close to 3,800 square feet of outdoor patio space. The Tuscaninspired, upper-level tasting room features an enclosed patio, rounding out the total seating to around 250.
Swirl and stack Italian ice with flavors such as lemon, cherry and root beer at Sicily’s Italian Icebox. Opt to cool off with Italian ice popsicles — flavors include blueberry, bubble gum and mango. Enjoy special summer creations, including Havana banana — made with banana Italian ice, vanilla ice cream, caramel syrup, Nilla Wafers and sliced fresh bananas — available from Aug. 1 to 7. Other specials include orange creamsicle, with orange cream Italian ice, vanilla ice cream and mandarin oranges, available Aug. 8 to 14, Italian cream sodas, in combinations such as vanilla ice cream and lemonlime soda, available Aug. 15 to 21, and a blue cotton candy sundae, with blue cotton candy Italian ice, vanilla ice cream and cotton candy topping, available Aug. 22 to 29. //CD
424 W. Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, 330-617-2737, facebook.com/silicysitalianicebox
Blue cotton candy sundae photo provided by Sicily’s Italian Icebox
Joe crafts wine on-site from West Coast grape juices. The list is fruitforward, with selections ranging from peach and apricot wine to a traditional chardonnay. A top seller is the smooth, easy drinking La Dolce Vita ($18 bottle) made with a cabernet base and blackberry puree. Another popular pick is the Mela Verde ($18) made with green apple puree and a riesling base for a crisp, refreshing finish. Joe’s new creation is Delizioso ($24), a fortified black cherry wine.
“After the wine is fermented through, I add cognac to it to fortify it, and it brings the alcohol content to 14 percent,” Joe says. “It’s got a little warm finish to it. It’s different.”
In addition to rotating guest wine and beer selections, find wine slushies as well as flavorful cocktails, such as blueberry lemonade sangria, made with blueberry vodka, lemonade and Nauti Vine’s blueberry wine. For a spin on a root beer float, cool off with a wine float, made with your choice of wine poured over your pick of lemon, cherry or pomegranate frozen Dole Whip.
Nosh on appetizers such as dill pickle cheese curds, a Caesar salad and a meat and cheese plate featuring trail bologna, pepperoni, Colby Jack, Swiss and cheddar. Choose from nine flatbread pizzas cooked in a seasoned stone outdoor pizza oven situated in a vintage fire truck. Varieties include roasted wild mushroom ($13) — with shaved Parmesan, mozzarella, chives and a bourbon glaze — or lobster ($15) with garlic butter sauce, tomatoes, basil and a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano and provolone. Enjoy your food and wine on the outdoor lower patio, featuring a bar and fire pit at the base of a rocky hill dotted with milkweed, grape vines and birch trees. Linger for sunset.
“The sky lights up in so much color. It’s beautiful,” says Joe. “There’s a reflection off the water — it’s pretty amazing.”
3950 S. Main St., Green, 330-644-5444, nautivine.com
Co-owner Erica Wathey
{ by Cameron Gorman }
Help Arrives
Using an insurance broker can simplify the Medicare selection process.
Enrolling in Medicare can be a complex process — one that conjures a host of questions and considerations. Should you sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan or stick to Original Medicare? Should you choose to add Medigap coverage? What’s the difference between Medicare parts A and B?
“The most common thing we hear when we talk to people about Medicare is how confused they are on what to do, when to do it and what not to do,” says Steve Clark, president and owner of Ohio Health Benefits, a locally owned and operated independent insurance broker in Tallmadge. “They just need some good, hard factual evidence or information to help them make a decision.”
Open enrollment takes place Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. It’s almost time to select your coverage and enroll. But independent research can often end in unreliable results.
“Probably the most frustrating pitfall is people that go online and begin to do research on their own,” says Clark. “There’s lots of websites that all they’re trying to do is farm your information and sell it to other companies throughout the country. Then your phone will start ringing off the hook.”
Medicare recipients can enroll on their own, using medicare.gov, but Clark does not recommend this route. The information provided through the website can be confusing and can lead to choosing the wrong plan. Finding the right plan can mean the difference between obtaining necessary
drugs for an affordable price and paying a great deal of money for medication.
“When you look at Medicare Advantage plans, they have doctor networks, they have lists of medications or formulary lists, and if somebody chooses the wrong plan, they could find out that they don’t get to see the doctor they want to go to or they don’t get to go to the hospital system they need. They may find out their drug’s not covered, or it’s covered, but it’s extremely expensive,” says Clark. “If you enroll in a plan and you make a mistake, you’re basically stuck with that decision until the next open enrollment period before you can make a change because of the government rules. So, you really want a thorough analysis when you get started
and try to find the best plan out there.”
Using an insurance broker, like Ohio Health Benefits, can help to avoid these issues. An insurance broker helps clients find the right health care plan for their unique situations, acting as an intermediary between the insurance provider and the recipient — and helping to answer immediate questions like when to enroll.
“We basically meet with people who are becoming eligible for Medicare because they’re turning age 65,” says Clark. “We just help people figure out what they should do, what they shouldn’t do, as they approach age 65, or if they’re past age 65 but they kept working, and now they’re retiring, and they need to get their Medicare in place. We just do what we can to help them figure that out.”
The services of brokers like Ohio Health Benefits are free — brokers are paid by health insurance companies they enroll clients into. Your first session, which usually lasts about an hour, is purely consultative.
“It could be the first of one, two, three or four meetings, depending on what’s going on,” Clark says. “But really, it’s just having a really good open, honest exchange with
each other, getting to know the needs of our clients and then figuring out the timing of when they need it.”
This initial session also allows clients to ask questions. Some of the most frequently asked questions, Clark says, include those on when to enroll and what plan to choose.
“We describe it as having two different paths,” Clark says. “You can go down path one, which is doing Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement plan, or you can go down path two, which is going on a Medicare Advantage plan. … We’ll spend a half hour to 45 minutes explaining the differences between the two and the ability to move from one side to the other.”
Original Medicare includes part A, hospital insurance, and part B, medical insurance. Original Medicare is often supplemented with a Medicare Part D plan, which assists with the cost of prescription drugs, and Medigap insurance, which helps to pay out-ofpocket costs under Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans are also known as Part C plans — and are Medicareapproved private plans.
To prepare for a first meeting with a broker, bring two main things: a list of the medications that you are taking and a list of doctors and hospital systems that you would like to use under your Medicare plan.
“We also will ask questions about your travel habits. Do you need coverage outside the state? Do you own a home in another state? Are you a snowbird?” says Clark. “We’ll just ask them what’s going on in their life with their budget, what’s going on with their health, so that we can also give them good advice and direction.”
Guidance can be especially helpful when it comes to narrowing down the vast amount of choices available to recipients.
“The counties in Northeast Ohio are in the top 10 of all the counties across the country in terms of the number of Medicare plans that are out there that people can enroll into,” says Clark. “For example, in Summit County, we have 87 different plans that somebody can choose from.”
Brokers can assist in the enrollment process when you are ready to choose a plan. Consulting with a broker can help ensure you obtain the Medicare plan that works best for you.
“You can get an independent opinion, an independent evaluation and recommendation,” says Clark.
It can also reduce stress.
“That’s one of the best parts of the job,” Clark says, “is just relieving people of the stress that they’re feeling as they get close to the Medicare age.”
Restaurants
VISIT AKRONLIFE.COM TO VIEW MORE AREA RESTAURANTS & EVENTS.
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner Patio
Alcohol available
Takeout available
Valet parking
Wheelchair Accessible
$ average entrees less than $6
$$ average entrees between $6-$10
$$$ average entrees between $11-$16
$$$$ average entrees are $17 or higher
Information subject to change. Please call ahead to verify location, hours and events.
Akron Family Restaurant
250 W. Market St., Akron, 330-376-0600
$$ B L D
Aladdin’s Eatery
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
$$$ L D
Al’s Corner Restaurant
155 Second St. NW, Barberton, 330-475-7978
$$ L
Alexander Pierce Restaurant
797 E. Market St., Akron, 330-529-2003
$$$ D
Arcadia Grill
85 years. 321 Court Ave. NW, Canton, 234-214-8940
$$ B L D
Arnie’s West Branch Steak House
5343 state Route 14, Ravenna, 330-297-1717
$$$ D
Barley House
222 S. Main St., Akron, 330-374-0925
$$ L D
Basil Asian Bistro
585 Market Ave. N, Canton, 330-452-3888;
145 W. Liberty St., Wooster, 330-601-0885
$$$ L D
The Battleground
425 Cherry St., Kent, 330-548-9019
$$$ B L D
Beau’s Grille
3180 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-5218
$$$$ B L D
Beau’s on the River Sheraton Suites Akron/Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-920-7530
Golden Dragon 1634 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-1109
$$ L D
Green Diamond Grille & Pub
125 Second St. NW, Barberton, 330-745-1900
$$$ L D
Grinders Above & Beyond
1671 N. Main St., North Canton, 330-497-4800; 3114 Whipple Ave., Canton, 330-477-5411; 1212 W. Maple St., Hartville, 330-587-4280; 1820 W. State St., Alliance, 330-821-6665; 404 E. Lincolnway, Minerva, 330-868-7824; 500 W. Main St., Louisville, 330-875-9700
$$ L D
Guiseppe’s Pizza 14 E. Caston Road, Akron, 330-644-8842; 5642 Wales Ave. NW, Massillon, 234-258-4800
$$ L D
H2 Huth & Harris Wine Merchants 221 S. Court St., Medina, 330-805-3212; 427 Tuscarawas St. E, Canton: 330-815-4959
THE LAKE HOUSE KITCHEN & BAR OFFERS SPECTACULAR VIEWS AND DELICIOUS EATS.
From the patio of the Lake House Kitchen & Bar, a stunning view of East Lake — one of the Twin Lakes — surrounds the restaurant in blue. It serves as a fitting backdrop for its elevated Midwestern lake comfort food.
“Seeing it change with the season is great,” says co-owner Mike Beder. “This time of year, it’s arguably prettiest, when everything’s in bloom. But when the leaves are changing on the trees in the fall, that’s beautiful. Even when it’s barren in the winter but it gets a little sunny, that’s a great look. It’s like constantly changing artwork.”
From 1985 to early 2022, the location was known as Twin Lakes Tavern. Beder and Ben Koberna purchased the popular spot around April 2022.
“Me and my family live in Kent,” says Beder, an alumnus of Kent State University. “This is an important landmark and community gathering place. To be the stewards of that is a point of pride.”
Under Beder and Koberna’s leadership, the restaurant gained a new name, a refurbished aesthetic — including a modernized sign, a sleeker interior and fresh paint — and an updated menu, featuring seasonal lakeside fare such as fresh made New England clam chowder and grouper bites.
On the patio — which includes a small waterfall — take a seat at a bar that affords unobstructed views of the lake, or relax at one of six or seven tables. Inside, surrounded by blue painted
walls and wood accents, dine at one of 13 tables. The Lake House’s main menu offers appetizers, such as lake chips ($12), made with blue cheese, balsamic reduction, fresh scallions and herb cream drizzle; salads, such as a Lake House Caesar ($7-$12); and entrees, such as the buoy burger ($15), loaded with cheddar, tomato jam, pickled red onions, field greens and garlic aioli. The bar menu, meanwhile, offers cocktails, spirits, ciders,
seltzers, beer and wine.
Savor the Lake House fish and chips ($22). Beer-battered cod — crafted with handmade beer batter and a proprietary blend of spices — is served with house fries, remoulade sauce, creamy coleslaw and Loud Dog hush puppies, made with diced jalapenos.
“People love our coleslaw, which helps balance the whole dish,” Beder says.
Complete the meal with a craft cocktail, such as the Twin Lakes
{ by Cameron Gorman, photos by Erin Gulling and Vaneeda Sibounheuang }
Pierogies, Lake House fish and chips, and Twin Lakes Sunset
Sunset ($10). Prepared with houseinfused vanilla bean Watershed vodka — from a Columbus distillery — housemade passion fruit simple syrup, pineapple juice and cranberry juice, it’s a splashy sip of fruit punch-flavored sunshine.
meal can order a grilled tri-tip hoagie ($19), served with cheddar, creamy horseradish sauce, caramelized onion jam, coleslaw and house fries.
For something slightly subtler, try the pear martini ($13). Its ingredients — Grey Goose La Poire vodka, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, a lemon twist garnish and simple syrup — lend themselves to a delicious, fruity palate pleaser.
“It tastes like a pear,” says bartender
Another fish dish, the mahi-mahi ($26), is made using caramelized onions and house-made garlicleek aioli. It’s served with roasted garlic redskin mashed potatoes and a vegetable of the day.
“It’s very simple, because mahi’s got such a great flavor that when you’re using a good fish like that, you want to let that be the star,” Beder says.
“It’s just pan fried, has a light, nice, little crisp on the edges, and then it gets balanced with the caramelized onions and a little garlic aioli.”
Those craving a turf-based
“That’s just a great, hearty sandwich. Comes on a big piece of French bread,” Beder says. “The cheddar cheese adds the creaminess and then the horseradish sauce, more creaminess but a kick.”
Lake House chef James Novy remembers the first day he prepared the dish for Beder.
“I had it all marinated up, and I grilled them outside, and I finished them in the oven. And I sent pictures to Mike — he goes, I’ll literally be there in five minutes,” he says. “It’s perfectly marbled. … When you grill it off, you slice it down thin, and it works perfect on sandwiches.”
When the weather cools down, try crispy potato cheddar pierogies as an appetizer ($11) or as an entree ($22), for which they’re accompanied by locally made smoked beef kielbasa. The pierogies are sourced from the Pierogi Lady, a local business.
“She’s got a bunch of unique flavors. We’ll bring in some of the different ones to use for specials,” Beder says. “But for the core menu, we went as traditional as possible, which would just be the potato and cheddar. And then the way we finish the entree is with this balsamic onion jam, so it sweetens it up, it’s a little tart, and then the sour cream to balance it.”
The dishes and drinks available at the Lake House all complement its gorgeous setting.
“I always thought this was such a great hidden date spot, where you’re 3 miles from Kent but it feels like you’re miles away on a coast,” Beder says. “For this to be so accessible to people was always really interesting to me. I still have that same reverence for it.”
7508 state Route 43, Kent, 330-678-8946, lakehousekent.com
7 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-762-7555; 1203 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-922-3663; 2914 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-836-7662; 1450 E. Main St., Kent, 330-677-0904; 155 Lincoln Way W, Massillon, 330-833-8800; 5000 Portage St., North Canton, 330-244-4212; 9406 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330-422-8010
$$ L D
Rose Garden Restaurant 2033 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-706-6630
$$ L D
Rosewood Grill
36 E. Streetsboro St., Hudson, 330-656-2100
$$$$ L (Fri/Sat only) D
Russo’s
4895 State Road, Peninsula, 330-923-2665
$$$$ D
Saffron Patch in the Valley 1238 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-836-7777
$$$ L D
Sakura
3900 Medina Road, Akron, 330-670-0288
$$$ L D
Samantha’s on Portage
4954 Portage St. NW, North Canton, 330-499-9700
$$ B L D
Sammie’s Bar and Grill
498 South Ave., Tallmadge, 234-678-8334
$$ L D
Samosky’s Homestyle Pizzeria
6738 Center Road, Valley City, 330-483-2000
$$$ L D
Sam Sylk’s Chicken & Fish
1400 S. Arlington Road, Akron, 234-571-0802
$$$ L D
Sarah’s Vineyard
1204 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-8057
$$ L D
Sérénité Restaurant & Culinary Institute
538 W. Liberty St., Medina, 330-952-2611
$$$$ L D
Shawarma Bros. 1808 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-3996
$$ L D
Sisters Century House
123 S. Canal St. S, Canal Fulton, 330-854-9914
$$ B L
Skyway Drive-In Restaurant
2781 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Green, 330-896-9350
$ L D
Social at the Stone House 824 Lincoln Way E, Massillon, 330-809-0461
$$$$ L D
Spennato’s Italian Ristorante 10446 Northfield Road, Northfield, 330-468-8688
$$$ L D
Stricklands Frozen Custard
1809 Triplett Blvd., Akron; 2629 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-8498; 3465 S. Arlington Road, Green, 330-899-9477; 9070 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330-626-2750
$
Swensons Drive-In
658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-928-8515; 40 S. Hawkins Ave., Akron, 330-864-8416; 4466 Kent Road, Stow, 330-678-7775; 40 Brookmont Road, Montrose, 330-665-1858;5815 Wales Ave., Massillon, 330-833-5454; 1558 N. Main St., North Canton, 330-499-9494
$ L D
Table Six Kitchen & Bar 6113 Whipple Ave NW, North Canton, 330-305-1666
3634 Center Road, Brunswick, 330-220-9944; 5710 Fulton Drive NW, Canton, 330-497-1133; 79 Springside Drive, Copley, 330-644-1780; 5111 E. Aurora Road, Macedonia, 330-467-6200; 2175 E. Maple St., North Canton, 330-470-6460; 1615 Main St., Peninsula, 330-467-1002
$$ L D
Wise Guys Lounge & Grill
1008 N. Main St., Akron, 330-922-3006
$$$$ L D
Wolf Creek Tavern 3044 Wadsworth Road, Norton, 234-571-4531
$$$$ L D
Yours Truly
36 S. Main St., Hudson, 330-656-2900; 3725 Medina Road, Medina, 330-722-5800
$$ B L D
Please send any changes or corrections to kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com.
YEARS HONORED
{
“ ”
Come Up
Akron, 2005
Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney grew up a few houses away from each other in a West Akron neighborhood. Their brothers were friends — and the two eventually started jamming together while attending Firestone High School in 1996. With Auerbach on vocals and guitar and Carney on drums, they recorded a demo in Carney’s basement, forming the Black Keys in 2001. The band played its first show at the Beachland Ballroom & Tavern in March 2002 — to a crowd of under 10 people. The pair recorded their debut, “The Big Come Up,” in Carney’s basement, and Alive records released it in May 2002. Pictured here in 2005, the Black Keys played Akron’s Lime Spider multiple times. Eventually, the two-piece found international success, winning five Grammy Awards. See the duo return to Northeast Ohio Aug. 22 at Blossom Music Center on its “No Rain, No Flowers” tour — named after its 13th studio album, out Aug. 8. Expect to hear the Black Keys’ new single, “The Night Before,” and the Grammy Award-winning 2010 hit “Tighten Up,” which brought commercial success to the beloved blues rockers.
by Claire Duber, photo by Andrew McAllister and provided by Akron-Summit County Public Library/ Summit Memory }
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