February 2021 Akron Life Magazine

PEACE OUT RELAX AT LOCAL SALONS & SPAS

FACES OF THE 330

EASY FILE ANSWERS TO 2020 TAX QUESTIONS

VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 2

FEBRUARY 2021

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

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

A CELEBRATION 100 yEARS 7 ( visit summitmetroparks100.org

330-867-5511 | # SMP100

PAGES

FEBRUARY 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 2

Pages start here

On The Cover

| 28 Historical 330 | photo by Tylar Sutton

[ FEATURE ]

28 LET FREEDOM RING Northeast Ohio had an extraordinary role in shaping seminal abolitionist John Brown.

Here is how our region gave birth to the man who helped bring an end to slavery.

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

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akronlife.com | FEBRUARY 2021

STRESS BUSTER

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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.

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48

FINANCIAL PLANNING

AGENDA

UNTAPPED

2020 taxes

[ the essential social digest ]

Valentine’s Beer Pairings

[ DEPARTMENTS ]

08

MAIL BONDING

12 AGENDA [ the essential social digest ] 13 Entertainment listings

09 FROM THE PUBLISHER Just Relax

10 RADAR [ seen + heard ]

+ Calendar of events

46 GOOD EATS [ notable food + drink ] 46 Restaurant listings 47 Uncorked: Buffalo Trace Distillery

Bourbon Cream

Special Sections 20 FACES OF THE 330 38 FINANCIAL PLANNING Answers to your pressing questions about 2020 taxes

48 Untapped: Valentine’s Beer Pairings

11 UPFRONT Exam Time

51 PARTING SHOT Goodyear is off to the races

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akronlife.com | FEBRUARY 2021

42 HEALTH & WELLNESS Relax at salons and spas, or indulge with treatments at home.

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PAGES MAIL BONDING

Tell us what's on your mind.

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 1 | JANUARY 2021

WINNERS OF THE 330 FLAVOR AWARDS

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HOUSE OF HUNAN TONK ATSU R AMEN AND PAN-FR IED POR K BUNS photo by Tylar Sutton

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

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FOUNDER

Don Baker Jr. [ 1940-2018 ] PUBLISHER

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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 ]

Just Relax Slowing down helps bring out a renewed happiness in life.

It has been well-documented how much people despised 2020, and we have a tough road ahead of us yet in 2021. Most of my days are spent talking to our staffers, subscribers and advertisers about the difficulty that lies ahead. We appreciate all of you who have subscribed or sent gifts of our magazine to others, wanting to support us and help keep us afloat. I get deeply saddened by my conversations with local businesspeople who continue to struggle while they pour all of their energy and finances into keeping their doors open. Some days I leave the office feeling down.

My day changes when I walk through the front door of my house and see little arms reaching out or a great big smile greeting me. A few days after this issue comes out, my son will be 1 year old. As I look back, I cannot believe it has gone so fast. But in some ways, it has gone very slowly. The weekends he spent teething and the nights when I woke up at 2 a.m. and stumbled around barely conscious were terribly slow.

I sometimes looked forward to heading out to the office, only to find myself excited to see him a few hours later.

Because of the pandemic, he has not gotten to know the outside world. He has been to one or two restaurants and probably thinks there are only a handful of people in the world. The farthest he has traveled is to his grandparents’ house in the Columbus area. Some of my favorite days with him have been the Sundays he was briefly taking swimming lessons before Summit County became a hot spot for COVID-19. After

swimming, we would put on our Cleveland Browns gear and cheer during football. Or we’d watch Formula One racing. He loves colorful cars, so for Christmas, I got him a kid-sized McLaren 570S. He immediately grabbed the wheel like he knew what to do.

Look out, Lewis Hamilton — we might finally have another American world champion racing driver.

Although we’ve had a great year with him, the pandemic’s extra parenting challenges have made me long for relaxation some days. Check out our spa and salon guide on pg. 42 to read about treatments you can get to slow down and refresh.

Despite that, it has been an incredible journey as an older parent to have a go at raising a baby with some maturity and stability.

My two older kids have really taken to having a younger sibling around. When my

older son sends out selfies of him holding the baby, people ask if he is his child, not the gray-haired guy’s next to him. I am sure I will get plenty of Are you the grandparent? inquiries when we start going out more, but I am OK with that.

If I were asked whether I’d do it again, the answer would be Absolutely. If we were asked whether we would have another baby now, I’m sure I speak for my wife in saying, One is enough. Right now, what I need is some sleep — or maybe a massage.

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

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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PAGES RADAR

by Alexandra Sobczak

seen + heard

TAKING THE MIC Listen to these podcasts on Apple, Google or other podcast platforms.

Allow Us to Re-Thriftroduce Ourselves Get tips on loving your closet during the pandemic, styling thrifted sequined and beaded clothes and more. It’s co-hosted by Dina’s Days blogger Dina Younis and her friend, Shannon, two women from Akron who were brought together by thrifting.

44,000 The number of lumens, or the amount of visible light emitted, collectively in the outdoor light projection and indoor light show at the Cultural Center for the Arts. This is just one of eight stops in Canton’s Illumination light festival. Lit buildings, light sculptures and displays set to music are some of the bright scenes artists have created around downtown Canton locations such as the Hall of Fame City Ice Rink and Buzzbin, in addition to a light and sound show every 15 minutes at Centennial Plaza.

Use the Illumination mobile passport to guide you through the lights. Fridays and Saturdays 6-9 p.m. throughout February, cantonlightfestival.com

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akronlife.com | FEBRUARY 2021

New Restaurant Watch:

DIVINE

Impress your Valentine’s Day date at the swanky Cuyahoga Falls spot Divine Food Spirits and Wine that opened in December, or just seek it out for a laid-back evening with friends. Match your mood at the upscale-casual from-scratch restaurant, whether you have a taste for sophisticated dishes like shrimp NOLA sauteed in white wine ($24) or more approachable chorizo mac ‘n’ cheese ($9). Dine in and listen to live music with those close to you or get cozy with carryout at home. 2752 Hudson Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-3344400, divinefoodspiritswine.com

Cork & Fork A Northeastern Ohio Food and Beverage Experience Akron resident Luke Taylor serves up chats with local pros, ranging from the Barrel Room’s Keri Sullivan dishing on her fave breweries to Kent Cheesemonger’s Tim Sahr giving advice on building the ultimate cheese board.

Unorchestrated Learn about music from the past, co-hosted by Akron Symphony Orchestra’s music director Christopher Wilkins and director of marketing Thomas Moore. On the debut episode, acclaimed poet Rita Dove discusses the diversity of the 19th-century music scene, playing the strings and the friendship between black violinist George Bridgetower and Ludwig van Beethoven.

PAGES UPFRONT

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

Exam Time Noticing the history all around us can be transformational.

I’ve also done the Chocolate Walk, and despite it meeting at the Town Hall, I never once looked at the historical marker to the side of it. Had I taken a moment to stop, I would have realized that Hudson was the boyhood home of instrumental abolitionist John Brown and upon that very ground, he dedicated his life to destroying slavery.

While info from the 1800s is limited and the Underground Railroad was very secretive, I discovered so many interesting nuggets about places in the city used for hiding freedom seekers, the term the National Park Service uses for enslaved Black people who escaped.

But what stuck out most was that from the beginning, many in our region reached across races and collaborated to successfully help freedom seekers pass through Hudson and journey toward safety in Canada.

Like most college students, I took the entry-level history course while studying journalism at Kent State University. My primary memories involve studying flashcards with many dates and names into the wee morning hours and leaving my dorm, Olson Hall, to nervously cross the Esplanade and take blue book essay tests at Bowman Hall. Like most exams that require cramming hundreds of factoids into your brain, I dreaded those dense history tests and was just interested in crashing afterward.

But working on the “Let Freedom Ring” feature on pg. 28 about the Underground Railroad in The 330 got me excited about history.

I started dating my husband, Tony, during college, and we frequently met at his family home in Hudson. I’ve often passed by the Hudson Green and never once noticed the historical marker in the middle of it honoring Hudson’s role in the Underground Railroad.

We’re lucky to have abolitionist Lora Case’s autobiography, “Hudson of Long Ago.” He wrote a detailed passage on how the Underground Railroad worked here: “In July 1859 Wm. Folger started from his depot in Ravenna with seven passengers instead of one, the usual number, aboard his train headed for the next station, which was my cabin in Streetsboro. They arrived safely Friday at midnight with a cautionary signal. … I waited until Sunday p.m., then I started on my train for John Markillie’s station in Hudson and saw them aboard his train for Johnson’s depot in Northfield.”

From Folger bringing the freedom seekers and Case housing them over the weekend to Markillie doing a handoff and Johnson then taking them to a boat in Cleveland, each step required teamwork, risk-taking and dedication.

What a remarkable legacy to live in a place that — more than a century and a half ago — largely saw equality as our country’s future and fervently worked together toward it.

I can’t write about this without reflecting upon the fact that we still haven’t achieved equality, and we’re far from living in the peaceful, harmonious society that Brown and others imagined. I’m writing this after American citizens breached the U.S. Capitol Jan. 6 to stage an insurrection and stop lawmakers from certifying Joe Biden as president.

The attack became one on democracy. But in a strong show of resolve, lawmakers continued into the early morning hours and succeeded in certifying Biden as president.

Even from the early days of our country, settlers clashed. Brown’s raid on the federal arsenal and armory at Harpers Ferry, Virginia, was violent and by no means the way to solve a problem, but his vision of a country where everyone is equal remains pure. How do we get there? History has a way of showing us that we are stronger when we work together, and the Underground Railroad is one of the clearest examples. Settlers put aside their divided beliefs on how to deal with slavery and helped several reach freedom. In the end, our predecessors succeeded in ending slavery.

The Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH has established the John Brown Institute to engage locals in the conversation of equality. That starts with completing renovations on the John Brown house at the society, making it accessible to all visitors.

During Black History Month, both Summit County Historical and the Hudson Library & Historical Society are launching new socially distanced digital tours that take you by spots that were part of the Underground Railroad.

When I get out there, I plan to read the signs and think about the legacy our predecessors left us. I’ve learned my lesson — history isn’t boring. In some cases, it’s laying a track for the future. That’s pretty fascinating, isn’t it?

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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AGENDA

FEBRUARY 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 2

Agenda the essential social digest

Through March 7 “Colors!”

The McKinley Presidential Library & Museum’s exhibit features items like vintage dresses, glassware and china, all grouped by color. The artifacts on display in the Keller Gallery are all from the museum’s permanent collection. McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. $8 children, $9 seniors, $10 adults. mckinleymuseum.org

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akronlife.com | FEBRUARY 2021

AGENDA

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

NOTE: In light of cancellations surrounding the ever-changing pandemic, double-check the status of events before attending.

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 artists-inresidence. facebook.com/akronsoultrain

Akron-Summit County Public Library Sit the kids down for regular

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

storytimes with children’s librarians or various book talks via videos on its Facebook page. Books are available inside at some locations 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

Canton History Canton museums got

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

ArtsInStark Check Facebook for

together to regularly provide 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.

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

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FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

13

AGENDA

Canton Symphony Orchestra

Up Front Art Space This Cuyahoga

The orchestra is offering fun ways to engage virtually. Watch videos to learn about running an orchestra, take in mini concerts and even learn how to cook with assistant conductor Matthew Jenkins Jaroszewicz. facebook.com/cantonsymphony

Falls gallery is sharing photos and videos of artwork for sale to support local creatives. facebook.com/upfrontartspace

Gage House Sessions Grab your

American Advertising Awards FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 19 5 p.m. - VIRTUAL AkronAmerican AdvertisingAwards.com

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

Magical Theatre Co. 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

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.

Watch it afterward when the group posts videos. facebook.com/watheatre

Weathervane Playhouse Sign Nightlight Cinema 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.

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

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 Zoo 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

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

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 Hall & Gardens. Guests can tour the most impressive floor without leaving their homes. stanhywet.org

Canton Museum of Art With limited capacity and shorter hours, the Canton Museum of Art 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-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, for all on Thursdays and the first Friday, otherwise $8 adults. cantonart.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 up-to-date info before visiting. nps.gov/cuva/index.htm

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akronlife.com | FEBRUARY 2021

AGENDA

Hale Farm & Village Explore our area’s history by purchasing required timed tickets in advance with the final ticket sold at 3 p.m. 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

Massillon Museum MassMu provides a comfortable and safe venue for visitors. See four new exhibitions: “Celebration in Art,” “Charles Mintz: Lustron Stories,” “My Community: Through the Eyes of the 21st-Century African American Child” 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 visits. 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.

VIRTUAL TOURS

Guests are not permitted to leave in the morning and come back in the afternoon. 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. $8 children, $10 adults. mckinleymuseum.org

The National First Ladies’ Library The First Ladies National Historic 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 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 this winter. portagecountyoh.gov/portage-park-district Stark Parks Get outside and explore more than 25 park locations.

Visit the website for information on winter activities for you or the kids. starkparks.com

Summit Artspace Reserve free timed tickets online for entry to Summit Artspace exhibits. Artists with studios in the building each have their own entry guidelines. On Thursdays, noon to 3 p.m. is reserved for vulnerable populations.

140 E. Market St., Akron. Thursday and Friday noon-7 p.m., Saturday noon5 p.m. Free. summitartspace.org

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

Events Through 2/6 “Drag Portraits” Akron Soul Train’s exhibit features paintings by artist-in-residence Max Markwald that focus on gender and the story of each persona. Akron Soul Train, 121 S. Main St., Suite 500, Akron.

Wednesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Free. facebook.com/akronsoultrain

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To take your virtual tour today, visit: info.ohioliving.org/olrn-virtual-tours 1150 West Market Street | Akron, Ohio 44313 | 330.867.2150 | ohioliving.org FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

15

AGENDA

Through 2/6 “United” This exhibition by artist-in-residence Shani Richards features pendants focusing on race relations and racial and ethnic slurs. Visitors can participate by wearing a pendant of their choice. Akron Soul Train, 121 S. Main St., Suite 500, Akron.

Wednesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Free. facebook.com/akronsoultrain

Through 2/6 “Wayne/Holmes Artists Exhibition” Visit the Wayne Center for the Arts for this annual exhibit featuring works from local artists. Wayne Center for the Arts, Looney and Gault Galleries, 237 S. Walnut St., Wooster.

Monday-Thursday 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. wayneartscenter.org

Through 2/25 “Into the Wind, the Veils” Kent State University’s Center for the Visual Arts features an exhibit of photography, collage and performance by artist Mehdi-Georges. It focuses on the themes of religion and queerness.

Payto and Crawford Galleries, 325 Terrace Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. kent.edu/galleries

Through 2/27 Illumination The Canton light festival features eight light installations and projections in downtown Canton locations such as the Cultural Center for the Arts and Centennial Plaza through February.

Downtown Canton. Fridays and Saturdays 6-9 p.m. cantonlightfestival.com

Through 3/4 “Biennial Faculty Show” Visit Kent State University’s Center for the Visual Arts to see a wide variety of artwork in many mediums by School of Art faculty. CVA Gallery, 325 Terrace Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. kent.edu/galleries

Through 3/7 “Ceramics for the Anthropocene: Dennis Meiners Ceramics” This exhibit at the Canton Museum of Art depicts the effects of humanity on nature’s ecosystems. The Oregon-based artist’s creative process is sustainable. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.5 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, for all Thursdays and on the first Friday, otherwise $8 adults. cantonart.org 16

akronlife.com | FEBRUARY 2021

Through 3/7 “Dancing in the Light: Masterworks from the Age of American Impressionism” This exhibit at the Canton Museum of Art features pieces from around 1878 to 1930 from various museums’ collections, with a focus on watercolor. This exhibit also celebrates the museum’s 85th anniversary.

Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, for all Thursdays and the first Friday, otherwise $8 adults. cantonart.org

Through 3/7 “60 Proof: Six Decades of the Whiskey Painters of America” Started in the late 1950s in Akron, the Whiskey Painters of America is made up of artists who painted small pieces in watercolor, by candlelight and with some form of alcohol. This exhibit features the work of 10 members. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. TuesdayThursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, for all Thursdays and the first Friday, otherwise $8 adults. cantonart.org

Through 3/20 Community Sketchbook Project The Akron Soul Train helped lessen stress by encouraging community members to pick up a sketchbook and create art.

From Feb. 17 through March 20, see the sketchbooks in an exhibit in the CapSoul Gallery. Akron Soul Train, 191, King James Way, Akron. Wednesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. akronsoultrain.org

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 through mid-April.

Old Trail School, 2315 Ira Road, Bath. 9 a.m.-noon. countrysidefoodandfarms.org

2/1 Risotto with Stir Studio Kitchen The Hudson Library hosts a virtual cooking class via Zoom with Charlie Denk, founder and owner of Stir Studio Kitchen. Tune in or look for the recorded program later on the library’s Facebook and YouTube channel. 7 p.m. Free. hudsonlibrary.org

2/3 Livestreaming Claim Sale Visit Rubber City Comics’ Facebook page to get deals on comic books and socialize with staff and patrons. Rubber City Comics is Akron’s longest-running comic bookstore.

8 p.m. facebook.com/rubbercitycomics

2/4 Movies@Main: Social Distancing Edition Enjoy the 1965 film “The Great Race,” which is a slapstick comedy following a group of people racing from New York City to Paris. Participate in the Akron-Summit County Public Library event from home, streaming the movie at any time on the hoopla app. Free. akronlibrary.org

2/4 Sounds of Akron: Jim Ballard Listen as Akron singer, songwriter and producer Jim Ballard discusses his career and plays some of his songs through the event hosted by AkronSummit County Public Library’s Kenmore branch. 6-7 p.m. Free. akronlibrary.org

2/5-2/26 Virtual Lunchtime Yoga Massillon Museum hosts yoga classes on Fridays for any experience level, led by instructor Leslie Schneider. Videos are available on the museum’s YouTube channel. 12:30 p.m. massillonmuseum.org/virtualyoga

2/5-3/5 Project Bloom This project hosted by the Canton Museum of Art, inspired by the “In the Garden: Nature’s Beauty from the CMA Collection” exhibit, aims to create a mixed-media flower garden. The museum encourages community members to create their own flower at home with a free art kit, which can be submitted to an art installation at the museum and a virtual exhibit.

Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, for all Thursdays and on the first Friday, otherwise $8 adults. cantonart.org

2/6 -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. TuesdaySaturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.com

AGENDA

2/7 Cultivating Mindfulness Through Art: Stacking Stones/ Mosaic This class employs stone and mosaic work to facilitate mindful attention and promote rest and relaxation through art. It’s open for ages 15 and up both in person and virtually. Due to social distancing, inperson classes are limited to eight artists per session. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 6:157:30 p.m. $25. akronartworks.com

2/7-3/7 “Celebration in Art” Massillon Museum’s annual exhibit includes work from 18 western Stark County schools. 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

2/10 Kiss Painting at Missing Falls Follow along with local artist Rae Faba step by step to make your own kiss painting to take home, with this paint and sip workshop hosted by I Paint Akron.

Stay for another beer at Missing Falls Brewery. Painting supplies and a beer are included. Missing Falls Brewery, 540 S. Main St., Suite 112, Akron. 6-8 p.m. $27.45. facebook.com/missingfallsbrewery

2/13 Fill-In-The-Blank Theatre Tune in as Neon Theatre act out mad libs and suggest words during the event on Facebook. 8-9 p.m. facebook.com/neontheatreco

2/13 Hartville Sports Card Show Attend 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

2/15 Presidents Day at the Akron Zoo Get outside on Presidents Day with a trip to the Akron Zoo, with timed tickets reserved online.

Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. akronzoo.org

2/17 Frontier Life in Ohio Dive into Ohio history with this discussion about pioneer life following the War of 1812. Learn about the pioneers’ challenges, livelihoods and more through the Barberton Public Library.

Check online to confirm if this event is held in person or on Facebook Live.

Barberton Public Library, 602 W. Park Ave., Barberton. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Free. facebook.com/barbertonpubliclibrary

2/17 In Your Backyard: A Virtual Tour of Summit Metro Parks Learn about everything our parks have to offer, including an overview of programs beginning in March. The tour is led by Chris Chaney, a Summit Metro Parks naturalist, over Zoom. 2-4 p.m. Free. akronlibrary.org

AKRON MONUMENT & GRANITE CO. Since 1973, Jim Leone has earned the reputation that thousands of families have trusted for honesty, integrity and professionalism.

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.

590 East Tallmadge Avenue, Akron | 330-252-1746 | akronmonumentgranite.com

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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AGENDA

2/18 Booth Brothers Dinner Concert Listen to the carefully crafted harmonies in the vocals of these three award-winning brothers at a concert at Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery. The trio, made up by Ronnie Booth, Michael Booth and Paul Lancaster, has been performing for over 20 years. Enjoy music inspired by rock and gospel while eating dinner. Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery, 1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville.

6-8:30 p.m. $56. hartvillekitchen.com

2/18 Cucina Demo: Steakhouse Menu Learn how to make three delicious dishes at Gervasi Vineyard’s Cucina with 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

2/18 Elegance: The Harper’s Voice Cleveland Baroque orchestra Apollo’s Fire presents this concert featuring harps and direction by Parker Ramsay and soprano vocals by Amanda Powell. Purchase a ticket for in-person or virtual listening to enjoy music by six Apollo’s Fire musicians in all. First United Methodist Church of Akron, 263 E. Mill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $10-$70. apollosfire.org

2/18 Midwinter Blues & Other Tunes: Zap Akron Art Museum’s virtual concert series features a discussion with Crafty Mart, art from Bianca Fields and music from Uno Lady and Oregon Space Trail. Tune in on the museum’s YouTube channel or social media pages. 7-9 p.m. youtube.com/user/akronartmuseum

2/19-2/22 Medina Ice Festival Check out over 100 pieces of art made from ice, including an ice sculpture garden in Medina Square, any time of day during Main Street Medina’s free festival. Public Square, Medina. mainstreetmedina.com

2/20 Hartville Coin Show Come browse vintage and new coins, precious medals and paper currency. Shop from over 30 vendors. Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. hartvillemarketplace.com

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2/20 Movies at the Roxy Enjoy the 1956 film “The King and I,” starring Yul Brynner, Deborah Kerr and Rita Moreno at the historic theater. Roxy Theatre, 114 N. Market St., Minerva. 7-9 p.m. $3. minervachamber.org 2/21 Anxiety and Stress Reduction for Preteen/Teens: Tension and Release This class promotes coping skills through art for children ages 11 to 15 both in person and virtually. Participants stack stones and paint rocks. Due to social distancing, in-person classes are limited to eight artists per session. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 6:157:30 p.m. $22. akronartworks.com

2/22 Book Club: “Mrs. Grant and Madame Jule” The National First Ladies’ Library hosts this monthly virtual book club. This month, register to discuss Jennifer Chiaverini’s historical fiction book about First Lady Julia Grant and her complex relationship with the slave who had her namesake.

Noon-1 p.m. Free. firstladies.org

2/22-3/5 Rethinking Race: Black, White and Beyond Join this virtual forum to discuss race-related issues.

Also take a digital historical tour that includes the John Brown home, the Sojourner Truth Monument and more. The University of Akron partners with the Summit County Historical Society of Akron for this annual event. Free. uakron.edu/race 2/26 Illumination Celebration Film Presentation: “Walk the Line” The Canton Palace Theatre presents the 2005 film about country music icon Johnny Cash as a part of its Illumination light festival. Enjoy the film on the big screen with a live band. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7:30 p.m. $10. cantonpalacetheatre.org

2/26 & 2/27 Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Show Shop from 100 juried arts and crafts vendors selling handmade items such as candles, rugs, baskets, jewelry, soaps, artwork and more. Shisler Conference Center, 1680 Madison Ave., Wooster. Friday 5-9 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. wccvb.com

2/27 Local Live Concert Series: the Vindys Listen to the jazz, pop and rock Youngstown band in person or from home.

The band is made up of five classically trained musicians.

Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7:30 p.m. $35 in person, $10 livestream. cantonpalacetheatre.org 2/27-3/10 Garden Symposium Beech Creek Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve’s annual Garden Symposium is virtual this year, with prerecorded videos available for two weeks. beechcreekgardens.org

2/28 Comfort Food and Wine Pairing Join Brad Preston, Gervasi Vineyard’s wine steward, as he pairs delicious comfort food with popular wines. Enjoy food like turkey, potato cakes, tacos and more. Gervasi Vineyard, the Villa Grande Ballroom, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 1-4 p.m. $39. gervasivineyard.com 3/4 Bassist Edgar Meyer Tuesday Musical’s first concert of the new season 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

3/6 Touchdowns and Tutus Watch this virtual dance event that pairs Canton Ballet dancers with local high school football players. Do a drivethru tailgate at the Pro Football Hall of Fame beforehand. cantonballet.com

BREWERY

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Our annual Best of The City competition is your chance to vote for your local favorites from across The 330 — and to win great prizes! Who do you love?

Winners are decided strictly by your votes and will be announced in the July 2021 issue of Akron Life magazine. Do NOT nominate national chains (i.e.

Starbucks or Macy’s). Local establishments only!

BAKERY

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ITALIAN RESTAURANT

SUSHI PIZZAFOOD BBQ PATIO DINING TRUCK

TRAIL

INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE

WINE

C O R N ART M A Z E GALLERY

JAZZ MUSICIAN

INDEPENDENT COFFEEHOUSE PATIO DINING

... and many more!

VOTE TODAY! GO TO

TO FILL OUT OUR ONLINE VOTING FORM FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2021

THE 330 IS A COMMUNITY OF PEOPLE WHO CARE. Now more than ever, it’s important that we care about the businesses, institutions, neighbors and friends in our backyard.

When you put a face on a business, every interaction becomes more than a transaction — it becomes a connection. Whether they’re fixing your car, giving you peace of mind in senior living or designing your dream house, The 330 keeps us all connected in our quest for a good life.

The 2021 Faces of The 330 introduces you to some of the people who help build our community on expertise, service and compassion. Their names and faces reflect a wealth of talent and pride of place that make our region unique.

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FACES OF THE 330

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uckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs LLC, a legal powerhouse in Northeast Ohio since 1913, met the headwinds of 2020 by responding with sound strategic planning and determination to continue to build the firm’s breadth, bench strength and unmatched regional expertise.

As other firms are shrinking or dissolving, Buckingham is growing. In the past 18 months, it has added more than 20 attorneys and returned to downtown Akron with the opening of a new office in the historic Nantucket Building. The firm also has offices in Fairlawn, Canton and Cleveland.

THE FACE OF

LEGAL EXCELLENCE

“We’re proud of the efforts of our entire Buckingham family,” says Akron native Steve Dimengo, Buckingham’s managing partner.

“Although 2020 was a challenging year financially and culturally, we’ve continued to invest in our infrastructure and to service our clients without missing a beat. This includes adding the best and right attorneys throughout the year — from new associates to the region’s most reputable and experienced attorneys.”

Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs LLC 330-376-5300 bdblaw.com Steve Dimengo photo by Tylar Sutton

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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n 1948, Nickitas “Nick” Thomarios started a small painting company to serve Greater Akron residents. His business grew into the commercial fields and incorporated in 1969. Since the construction group was added in 1994, the development, growth and diversity of projects have expanded the company to a new level.

Nick taught his son, Paul, to paint houses alongside him at an early age. After graduating from The University of Akron, Paul grew the business by adhering to the key components of quality and integrity his father instilled in him.

Under Paul’s leadership, the Thomarios team has grown into an international powerhouse of construction, coatings, powder coatings and historic restoration.

From the Saturn V rocket to the LED-lit parking garage at Akron Children’s Hospital, Paul helps build his father’s vision of making Akron a great place to live, one project at a time.

Thomarios recently renovated office space for Babcock & Wilcox in the former Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. headquarters in Akron.

The renovations utilized existing space to house approximately 650 employees and create new office and common spaces that help them work efficiently.

Thomarios 330-670-9900 thomarios.com

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THE FACES OF

CONSTRUCTION

David Rankin, Ted Whitcomb, Joe Hricovec and Robert Frutchey photo by Tylar Sutton

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FACES OF THE 330

T THE FACES OF

ETERNAL SERVICE

he COVID-19 pandemic and the events of 2020 have made us reflect on our lives, forcing us to ask tough questions and look at the bigger picture.

Why do we serve?

Serving others takes many forms from volunteering at a nonprofit or service through a job. 2020 showed us that the greatest act of service comes from The 330’s first responders and front-line workers. We applaud our brave doctors and nurses, as well as our beloved police, firefighters and EMS crews, who continue to serve bravely. You inspire us.

The pandemic has made the staff at the Billow Co. reaffirm its commitment to serving you.

A call goes out in the middle of the night when a death has occurred, and the staff at Billow Co. will be there on your darkest night.

We will help you usher in new dawn by paying tribute to your loved one.

We serve because it is our calling. It is a sacred duty. We remain humbly and loyally at your service, just as we have since our company was founded in 1875.

When you need us the most, we promise you our very best.

Darcie Swango, Curt Padrutt, Pierce Drobney, Stacy Billow, Nathanael Billow and Grant Siebert photo by Tylar Sutton

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The Billow Co. 330-867-4141 billowfuneralhomes. com

FACES OF THE 330

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uilt on creativity, collaboration and unparalleled service, the Interior Design Studio team in Medina focuses on crafting a client’s ideal environment.

They draw upon their expansive design resource library, which includes unique fabrics, customizable furniture, window treatments and accessories, to create personalized spaces. Pairing this with their numerous interior design services allows the team to create turnkey packages for their clients.

THE FACES OF

INTERIOR DESIGN

With over 40 years of combined design practice, the studio’s highly skilled and accredited interior designers are equipped to undertake commercial and residential projects of any size.

Maintaining lasting relationships with clients is a core principle of the Interior Design Studio. Whether designing living rooms, remodeling kitchens or executing ground-up builds, the interior design team focuses on providing amazing service, often forging a lasting bond and friendship with clients.

The Interior Design Studio 330-725-7623 interiordesignstudiooh.com Amy Douglass, Jakecia Durham,Malorie Thornton, Julie McNabb (Co-owner) and Katie Heinz (Co-owner) photo by Tylar Sutton

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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FACES OF THE 330

W THE FACES OF

SENIOR LIVING

hen searching for senior living options for a loved one, Danbury Senior Living is widely known as the preferred choice in Northeast Ohio. Danbury offers independent living, assisted living and memory care throughout the area at its resort-style communities. The services and amenities are abundant, including 24/7 nurses and care companions, resident-focused life enrichment programs, chef-prepared meals, anytime restaurantstyle dining and more.

With studios, onebedroom and twobedroom apartments, you can choose the perfect size apartment for your new home.

In recent months, many things may have changed, but Danbury’s commitment to its residents has strengthened.

In addition to precautions to keep current residents safe, healthy and happy, Danbury has worked hard to ensure new residents have peace of mind in making a safe and seamless transition.

“The Danbury staff and nurses are amazing,” says Michelle, a resident’s family member.

“The relentless hard work and dedication that goes into giving every resident the highest quality of activity, care and life is truly commendable.”

Contact Danbury today to explore senior living options for you or your loved one.

Jackie Bohon, Barb Daily, Stacy Mize, Marge Sullivan, Phoebe Billingsley and Bob Pontius photo h t by b Tylar T l Sutton S tt

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Danbury Senior Living 888-432-6279 danburyseniorliving.com

FACES OF THE 330

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e 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 beall of our business.

At Alexander Body in Akron, our specialists hold themselves to the gold standard. While there is no body shop out there that can return your car back to preaccident condition, we get as close as humanly possible.

THE FACES OF

AUTO BODY REPAIR

Your car is a reflection of who you are and a huge source of pride. So it makes sense why car damage can leave you distraught, mad or even frantic.

Finding a place to have your car’s auto body repaired is difficult enough, and then there’s understanding your insurance policy.

At Alexander Body, we’ll go through your insurance policy step-by-step and explain what’s covered. After being in business for 93 years, we’ve found that one of the keys to success is transparency. That’s why we make it our job to read, understand and communicate your policy’s coverage benefits to you and repair what we can.

Alexander Body & Fender 330-376-8105 alexanderbody.com Brian and Jon Roach photo by Daniel Smith

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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HISTORICAL 330

Northeast Ohio had an extraordinary role in shaping seminal abolitionist John Brown.

Here is how our region gave birth to the man who helped bring an end to slavery.

Buss diary, Hudson Library & Historical Society

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HISTORICAL 330

by Kelly Petryszyn Historical photos courtesy of Hudson Library & Historical Society Summit Memory/Akron-Summit County Public Library and Summit Memory – Summit County Historical Society collection

Let Freedom Ring

Most cars breezing

by Hudson’s Green on bustling Main Street miss it. Off of the connecting Church Street sits Hudson’s double spired Town Hall with an unassuming historical marker paying tribute to the man historians say lit the spark that ignited the Civil War. In that very spot in 1837, abolitionist John Brown first publicly declared that he was committing his life to ending slavery.

While history books teach accounts of his pivotal 1859 raid on the federal armory and arsenal in Harpers Ferry, Virginia, and leadership of the “Bleeding Kansas” massacre, the sense of purpose that drove him to take such measures was shaped here in the Western Reserve, slowly building to its eventual explosion.

“The rest of the world doesn’t know very much about him until he goes to the territory of Kansas,

when in actuality his formative years are right here,” says Leianne Neff Heppner, president and CEO of the Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH that has John Brown’s home on its Akron property.

As numerous biographers have traced his path from a mild-mannered tanner to the leader of bloody anti-slavery clashes, his relationships with family and friends in the Western Reserve and visits home have emerged as cornerstones.

“There’s that huge influence of those people around him in Northeast Ohio that are supporting him and teaching him — like Lora Case — in the anti-slavery movement,” Heppner says.

In 1805, Brown’s father, Owen, moved their family from Torrington, Connecticut, to Portage County and then specifically to Hudson, a town founded in 1799 by New England pioneers, many of which hated slavery. It was here

that he strengthened antislavery views, networked with abolitionists and assisted Owen and others in moving enslaved Black people who escaped, which the National Park Service calls freedom seekers, on the Underground Railroad through Hudson and Akron, toward freedom in Canada.

The Western Reserve — described in the Ohio Archaeological and Historical Quarterly as a hotbed for abolitionism — had all the elements to help kindle the fire of John Brown’s fight for equality and historychanging Harpers Ferry raid.

“From the time he was 5 or 6, he felt a very strong passion about everyone being created equal,” says Gwendolyn Mayer, archivist at the Hudson Library & Historical Society. “In the eyes of God, we should all be the same — that was the way he was raised.”

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HISTORICAL 330

He read a lot of books too, and with his father raising him as a devout Christian, the Bible was chief among them. “He was greatly influenced by the Bible and what he understood to be the reason for Christianity,” says Tom Vince, historian and archivist at Western Reserve Academy, which is the site of the former Western Reserve College.

Owen joined the First Congregational Church in Hudson in 1808. Brown was 30

akronlife.com | FEBRUARY 2021

Hudson Aurora Road home of Owen Brown Connecticut birthplace of John Brown

a Sunday school teacher, and Case wrote in his autobiography, “Hudson of Long Ago,” that he was among Brown’s young pupils in 1816. He described how Brown had a practical way of demonstrating the Christian principle that it is “more to give than to receive.” Case wrote that if someone had gotten into an argument, Brown would fold his hands behind him and calmly adjust his body language to convey that his response “came from the heart.”

His father raised his children to have a deep hatred of slavery, too. During the War of 1812, Owen brought Brown with him to a cattle contractor military job in Michigan, and they stayed with a family that had a Black servant around Brown’s

age. Brown observed he was doted on, while the servant was badly clothed, beaten with a shovel, poorly fed and lodged in the cold. It led him to “swear eternal war with slavery,” Villard wrote. Brown went on to have two wives and 20 children, and he raised his family with a desire to destroy slavery and to assist people trying to get out of slavery. In a letter, John Brown Jr. relayed how his father gathered his mother and siblings around their fireplace and “were called upon by their father to take a solemn oath to do all in their power to abolish slavery.” Every family member raised their right hand and took the oath before each other and God. Living in Hudson during the early 19th-century put the

Summit Memory – Summit County Historical Society collection

Brown knew loss early, too. His mother died when he was just 8.

“When that happened, he ended up spending a lot more time outside. He had a pet squirrel, and he had amazing husbandry with animals,” Heppner says.

Being around animals, especially that little bobtail pet squirrel, instilled him with compassion.

Hudson Library & Historical Society

From the time he was just a boy, Brown led a life many Northeast Ohioans would recognize — one marked by dogged hard work. When Brown was only 6, Owen began teaching him the business of tanning hides of squirrels, raccoons, wolves or deer into whip lashes, caps and clothing.

Oswald Garrison Villard, the author of “John Brown, 1800-1859: A Biography Fifty Years After,” wrote that during those early years, Brown was placed in the “school of adversity.”

Hunting expeditions were treacherous due to extreme weather, including a deep frost that took the corn harvest in 1806, and those hardships shaped his rugged spirit. “John Brown grew up to a self-reliant manhood.

Under these conditions was his character molded and forged, until there emerged a man of singular natural force, direct of speech, earnest of purpose and usually resolute,” Villard wrote.

Browns at the heart of heated debate. “Hudson was a community that was well-aware of what was going on in the world in the 1830s. We had a newspaper, and we were debating intellectually the issues of slavery,” Mayer says. “It was a very divided community.”

Much of the debate swirled at Western Reserve College, which was founded in 1826, and it thrust the college into the national spotlight. By the 1830s, staff and students were split on how to best approach the anti-slavery movement. On the abolitionist side were firebrands including professor Elizur Wright Jr., the Rev. Beriah Green and college president the Rev. Charles B. Storrs. “They were saying that immediate abolition

HISTORICAL 330

of slavery and citizenship for all African Americans would be best,” Vince says. Meanwhile, the town’s founder, David Hudson, and several college trustees were on the colonizationalist side.

“Many people in this town — and certainly not unusual in this country at the time — favored colonization. Why? Because of Liberia. The U.S. had sent freed slaves back to Africa [in the 1820s],” Vince says.

He credits the college as a reason why Hudson was a stop on the Underground Railroad beginning in the 1820s. “The theoretical and philosophical end of the abolitionist movement — you could trace it to the people who were involved with the old college,” he says.

There was never slavery in Ohio, Heppner says. But because slave catchers were on the hunt, the Underground Railroad — not an actual railroad but the term

for the organized effort — was established to secretly help freedom seekers reach Canada and other nations where slavery was illegal. Late Hudson Library & Historical Society archivist James Caccamo described the early movement of freedom seekers throughout town as an “open secret” in his book, “Hudson, Ohio, and the Underground Railroad.”

Hudson had more than four Underground Railroad routes, with the main one along present-day Main Street. Owen was Hudson’s chief stationmaster on the Underground Railroad.

According to Caccamo, he likely hid freedom seekers at various Hudson houses he lived in — including two on Hudson Aurora Road that are still standing.

Brown participated in the Underground Railroad too while he lived in Hudson

until the mid-1820s. John Brown Jr. wrote in his journal around 1825 that his father sheltered two freedom seekers on the property of his tannery. The Hines Hill Road site is still standing and is a bonus stop on a new mobile Hudson Library & Historical Society tour titled the AntiSlavery Movement and the Underground Railroad in Hudson, Ohio. Brown also had a house on Ravenna Road that was said to have a barn with a secret compartment, according to Caccamo.

Others in Brown’s family were also involved in the Underground Railroad, including his half-brother, Jeremiah Root Brown, according to Caccamo. He likely sheltered freedom seekers at his stillstanding East Streetsboro Street farmhouse that had a dry cistern that local tradition says was used

to hide people, according to the Hudson Library & Historical Society. Another likely spot is the still-standing Thirty Acres house of abolitionist John B. Clark where traces of a tunnel possibly used by freedom seekers were found, according to Caccamo.

The site of Case’s parents’ home, Case-Barlow Farm, which is now a park, was a well-known stop, and family tradition says they hid freedom seekers on a wooded lot at the farm’s edge, according to the Hudson Library & Historical Society. Case wrote that his log cabin on East Streetsboro Street was actively used, recalling a story in 1859 when seven freedom seekers came through a station in Ravenna and discreetly arrived at his home Friday at midnight. “I waited until Sunday p.m., then I started on my train for John Markillie’s station in Hudson and saw them aboard his train for Johnson’s depot in

photo by Tylar Sutton

David Hudson house FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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HISTORICAL 330 Hudson Library & Historical Society

Remarkable Story

Early 1800s Black Scholar Graduates in Hudson Case-Barlow Farm Northfield,” he writes. “Johnson’s train carried them safe to Cleveland and from there, they went on a boat safe to freedom.”

Markillie, a notable abolitionist and photographer, was the other stationmaster in Hudson.

Colonizationalist David Hudson also assisted freedom seekers. In a Jan. 5, 1826, diary entry, his son, David Hudson Jr., recounted that “two men came this evening in a sleigh, bringing a negro woman, a runaway slave and her two children.” They hid the freedom seekers on their property.

Hudson’s 1806 home is now owned by the Western Reserve Academy and is the oldest frame home in Summit County.

While trustees ousted abolitionist firebrands Green and Wright from Western Reserve College and the new president the Rev. George Pierce was more moderate, there were still abolitionist activities on campus in the 1830s. In a Nov. 11, 1834, diary entry, student John Buss recalled meeting a 40-year-old freedom seeker, who had run away from a slaveholder two months prior and was with his wife and child. Buss describes him as intelligent and having “good evidence of piety.” He notes that within 15 minutes, people at the college raised $5 32

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(equivalent to $100 today) for his family’s journey to Canada.

In Summit County, only Akron was as busy as Hudson on the Underground Railroad, according to Caccamo. Vince attributes the First Congregational Church as an important factor.

“That church was strongly antislavery,” he says.

Many members were abolitionists, and some were colonizationalists, with at least 10 being involved in the Underground Railroad, including Brown, Case and David Hudson.

Several anti-slavery discussions naturally took place there, including a prayer meeting in 1837 following the death of newspaperman and abolitionist Elijah Lovejoy, in which proslavery men shot him in Illinois and demolished his press.

Owen led a prayer, and Case described being there: “It seemed by his expression as we listened to his prayer that he felt as though the Judge of all of the earth was at the door of his heart.”

Following his father, Brown earnestly made his seminal pledge to the congregation, himself and his country. Case recorded: “I pledge myself with God’s help that I will devote my life to increasing hostility towards slavery.”

While slavery was prevalent in the South, Samuel Harrison, the son of people who had been enslaved in Georgia, studied at the prep school at Western Reserve College in Hudson. He went on to become a chaplain of the 54th Massachusetts “Glory Regiment,” one of the first Black regiments to fight in the Civil War. When he was just 3 years old, he and his mother were taken to New York, freed from a slaveholder.

He eventually enrolled in a labor school in Peterboro, New York, opened by Gerrit Smith — an abolitionist and one of John Brown’s “Secret Six” who assisted with the Harpers Ferry raid. When that school closed, Harrison and two other Black pupils learned about the prep school at Western Reserve College from the Rev. Beriah Green who had moved from Hudson to near Peterboro.

“He could not get into any school in New England because of his skin color,” says Tom Vince, historian and archivist at Western Reserve Academy. “But he came to Ohio.”

So Harrison and the pupils started their journey by riding a boat on the Erie Canal. After transferring to a steamship and chartering a wagon from

Cleveland to Hudson, the three scholars arrived at the school in 1836. They stayed in dorms where the library now stands, and Harrison earned his keep by working as a shoemaker. He studied Latin, Greek, geometry, algebra, English, speech and the Bible. Harrison’s autobiography noted that there was “no difference between the usage accorded to us and the white students [who] showed a little displeasure at first, but finally it blew over.”

Harrison graduated in 1839. On the journey back to New York, white passengers asked Harrison why he was aboard.

“Slavery is still rampant in the South. His reply, because he had books with him, I am a scholar returning home from the West,” Vince says. “He probably had a better education than the majority of the people in this country in 1839.”

Eventually, Harrison went on to be one of only 19 Black chaplains in the U.S. during that time.

He appealed for equal pay as a Black chaplain and got it sapproved.

“It’s quite a story involving Hudson, abolitionism and education for African Americans,” Vince says. “Here is one who had a measure of success that very few others born into slavery would have at that time.”

HISTORICAL 330 Summit Memory / Akron-Summit County Public Library

John Brown house in Akron, circa 1846

Perkins estate

Summit Memory – Summit County Historical Society collection

Her husband, Simon Perkins, a state senator who helped form Summit County in 1840 and the son of Akron’s co-founder, didn’t interfere with Brown’s efforts. “Perkins was not listed as an abolitionist, but he knew about what was going on across the street,” Heppner says. “He didn’t do anything that there would be any problems.”

photo by Tylar Sutton

Brown’s urgency ramped up after the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 was passesd, which drastically increased slave catchers’ efforts and upped the penalties for those aiding freedom seekers.

John Brown house, 2021

Brown’s life was indeed a testament to that promise.

“That’s what he did end up doing. Anything that he got involved in there on out had something to do with that commitment,” Heppner says.

of financial struggle, he used it as an opportunity to help Black people. Traveling to buy sheep and sell wool allowed him to transport freedom seekers from station to station on the Underground Railroad.

So when he got a stable job at Perkins Hill in Akron tending to 1,500 Merino and Saxony sheep for Col. Simon Perkins after moving around and years

“Those individuals that were trying to escape … could hide in his wagon,” Heppner says.

When he went back to Akron, he hid freedom seekers in the

barn behind the home that he rented from 1844 to 1854 across the street from the Perkins mansion, which are both now a part of the Summit County Historical Society.

“When there was danger, he brought the Blacks home, concealing them in his house and barn for days or weeks at a time … often having hidden several at once about his place,” Grace Perkins later recalled.

“That was probably a big tipping point for him,” Heppner says.

“They weren’t safe north of the Ohio River.” Brown continued his Underground Railroad effort and was regarded as a revered transporter for his ability to change course, avert capture and learn signs on his routes to ensure safe passages.

In Hudson, the Fugitive Slave Act made the Underground Railroad “much more active and organized,” Vince notes, and Owen continued his work as stationmaster.

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HISTORICAL 330

Slavery further divided the First Congregational Church.

“There was a breakaway, right when they had a pastor who was more of a moderate or not in favor of abolitionism,” Vince says. So in 1842, Owen split off to form the Free Congregational Church.

Members had to swear they would fight against slavery.

With his mission growing grander, he looked for more ways to help Black people within the U.S.

While Brown continued to travel as a shepherd for Perkins and rent his Akron home, he bought land in North Elba, New York, from famous abolitionist Gerrit Smith. Brown’s family lived among a farming As tensions heightened, Brown community for free Black peoincreased his reach, forging part- ple and treated them as equals. nerships throughout the country. “He wants to help free Black men and escaped slaves … learn “John Brown was extremely charhow to care for themselves by ismatic when it came to making farming,” Heppner says. relationships. He has a reputation of being the hothead, but He also lived part-time in he was very passionate about his Springfield, Massachusetts, belief in equality and freedom,” during the late 1840s. He grew Heppner says. “He was set on a close to the city’s free Black mission. He built magnificent community and spent time relationships with people all with abolitionist organizaover the United States to help tions. In 1851, he gathered him with his cause.” with the Springfield branch of the United States League

of Gileadites, an integrated anti-slavery self-defense group aimed at protecting against slave catchers. Black anti-slavery leader Frederick Douglass later attested that it was during this era that Brown began looking to violence as an answer to the issue of slavery.

“I think he knew all along it was gonna take bloodshed. We know that Brown had conversations when he was working for Perkins in Springfield, Massachusetts, and Frederick Douglass was like, I don’t think violence is the way to go,” Heppner says. “But he didn’t put it into action until his sons were traumatized by the Ruffians. That’s when he turned to violence.”

Brown’s sons wrote him calling for help from the Kansas Territory, and Brown moved there in 1855. Pro-slavery men

had destroyed his sons’ crops and burned their buildings.

In 1856, Brown rushed to the defense of anti-slavery landowners who had been attacked in Lawrence by pro-slavery settlers called Border Ruffians.

In retaliation, a group of men, including some of his sons and Brown wielding a sword he got from Akron mayor Lucius Bierce, brutally killed five pro-slavery men. A federal manhunt for Brown ensued, and clashes continued, with a pro-slavery militia eventually taking two of Brown’s sons as prisoners. Another of his sons, Frederick, was killed. A battle took place between the groups at Osawatomie in August.

Following that, Brown began working with a group of men dubbed the “Secret Six,” which included Smith, to solicit funds and arms for his plan to

Hudson Library & Historical Society

John Brown tannery home 34

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HISTORICAL 330

Summit Memory – Summit County Historical Society collection

John Brown

Remarkable Story

Freedom Seeker Evades Capture in Akron In the 1840s, Akron had a Black barber, James Worthington, who ran a shop complete with a striped pole and upholstered chairs.

Nicknamed “Jim,” the freedom seeker who escaped slavery in Kentucky is described in former Summit County sheriff Samuel Lane’s “Fifty Years and Over of Akron and Summit County” as “not only popular but seemingly very prosperous.”

attack the federal armory and arsenal at Harpers Ferry with the intention of starting a war to end slavery.

A bit before the infamous raid, Case recorded that he saw Brown in Hudson, speaking at Ellsworth Hall the night before he left. He was speaking about the Declaration of Independence and what it cost the forefathers. “His main effort was to show what it cost the old pioneers to gain and maintain their inalienable rights for themselves and their posterity; and many of them having pledged their lives, fortunes and sacred honor to maintain their liberties, sealed it with blood,” Case wrote.

At the train stop the next morning, Case met Brown who was deep in thought with his hands folded behind him, Case wrote. Brown lamented that he couldn’t do the previous night’s topic justice. “He could not find the words to express himself or impress upon the mind of the hearers, especially those who profess to be one with Him who said He came to break the yoke and let the oppressed go free, that they were guilty of the sin of hypocrisy,” Case observed.

On Oct. 16, 1859, Brown and his men stormed the armory and arsenal at Harpers Ferry and took the great-nephew of George Washington captive, along with other hostages.

Worthington said his estranged wife shared his whereabouts with slave catchers enforcing the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, which upped penalties and decreed freedom seekers had to be returned to slaveholders.

In 1854, lawmen arrived and claimed they had a warrant for Worthington’s arrest for involvement in a counterfeit coin scheme.

They took Worthington in shackles to Union Depot, which is near present-day Quaker Square in Akron.

It was discovered that one of the lawmen was actually the Kentucky sheriff, who came to bring Worthington back to a slaveholder. Community members gathered and demanded Worthington be freed from the bogus

warrant. The crowd surrounded the “lawmen,” and the Akron Beacon Journal notes that one citizen even shook his cane at them. Scared, they let Worthington go.

Since Worthington was no longer safe, Akron Judge and lawyer Alvin C. Voris took Worthington to his South Broadway Street home and hid him in his attic for about a month.

Lane described Voris as “not having the fear of the minions of slavery or of the slave-hunting minions of Uncle Sam before his eyes, did both ‘harbor’ and ‘conceal’ the said fugitive.” He contacted an Underground Railroad agent who eventually took Worthington to safety in Canada.

Voris went on to be an Ohio legislator and decorated brevet major general of the Union Army during the Civil War and lived to see the end of slavery. Following the war, Voris brought formerly enslaved person Charles E. Adams back to Akron and secured a position for Adams working on the Allyn family’s farm. Adams carved a replica of a train from the Civil War out of wood, and you can see it at the Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH. Both men have a final resting place in Glendale Cemetery in Akron.

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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HISTORICAL 330 Summit Memory – Summit County Historical Society collection

The trial of John Brown

Lora Case While the raid, the bloodshed know what he understands is and Brown’s death shocked the nature of true the country, his death was religion,” Vince not in vain. Just as he had pledged to do in the center of says. “It’s an Hudson in 1837, Brown had a active principle — and that’s what part in ending slavery.

The incident left many troubled by his tactics. “He was violent, and he did take things to a degree and make people uncomfortable,” Heppner says.

“But a lot of people don’t know the other side of the bullying and different things he went through because he was committed to the cause.”

“The Smithsonian credits the beginning of the Civil War era with John Brown’s raid,” Heppner says. Scholar W.E.B. DuBois also attests that Brown’s actions “did more to shake the foundation of slavery than any single thing that happened in America.”

He explained his strategy in a famous letter written just before his execution: “I John Brown am now quite certain that the crimes of this guilty land will never be purged away but with blood. I had as I now think: vainly flattered myself that without very much bloodshed; it might be done.”

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Vince recalls Brown’s legacy by looking at his last letter penned to boyhood Hudson friend Lora Case on his final day. “Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father as I understand it: an active (not a dormant) principle,” Brown wrote.

“As he’s about to go for execution, he wants Lora Case to

Hudson Library & Historical Society

They were met with local militias and then Col. Robert E. Lee’s Marines. Ten of his men died, and Brown was beaten until he was unconscious and captured.

He stood trial and was executed publicly on Dec. 2, 1859.

he acted on.”

He adds that Brown’s mindset and actions were progressive for his generation.

“Prematurely hanged — that’s what one diarist [George Templeton Strong] writes about John Brown, because the Civil War started less than a year and a half after he had been executed,” Vince says. “He was ahead of his time.”

He is remembered in many ways, but perhaps one of the most resonant is the John Brown Monument, which can be accessed at the Akron Zoo. It’s inscribed with an enduring

HISTORICAL 330

mural of Sojourner Truth at John Brown house, photo by Tylar Sutton

Summit Memory / Akron-Summit County Public Library

John Brown Monument proclamation: “He died to set his brothers free and his soul goes marching on.”

The Summit County Historical Society is ushering in a new era at the John Brown house to encourage more people to learn about the revolutionary figure who was shaped here in Northeast Ohio. A $1.2 million renovation project is wrapping up to give the house a restored exterior, Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramp and bathroom, paved parking lot and updated HVAC for year-round access.

“The reality is that we’re looking at John Brown, an individual that gave his life for all people to be considered equal, and we want to make sure that all people have access to the home he lived in here,” Heppner says.

Following unrest over racial injustices in summer 2020, the society established the John Brown Institute in fall as

a task force that continues to propel his ideas.

“It’s looking at John Brown’s legacy and … his role in the United States, his goal to free slaves — that concept of equality and liberty continues,” Heppner says.

The institute held its first community talkback in the fall. As part of The University of Akron’s Rethinking Race: Black, White and Beyond series Feb. 22 to March 5, the society is set to do another talkback and a digital African American History Tour that includes the John Brown house.

It’s been 162 years since we lost Brown on those gallows, but his spirit gave more life to the fight for equality. And to this day, it rages on.

“John Brown’s legacy is continuing,” Heppner says. “He’s not just a figure of the past. His role has helped inspire and influence even through today.”

Sojourner Truth

ENGAGE Learn more about the Underground Railroad in The 330 with these sites and activities.

Anti-Slavery Movement and the Underground Railroad in Hudson, Ohio This new mobile tour available this month compiles photos, key documents and audio narration related to 16 walkable stops and nine drivable stops. See sites like the former Western Reserve College, where famous abolitionist Frederick Douglass delivered an 1854 commencement speech.

Hudson, hudsonlibrary.org

Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH Visit the Akron home of famous abolitionist John Brown after a $1.2 million renovation is completed this spring. Check its website for a digital African American History Tour that includes Brown’s home, the Sojourner Truth Monument where she gave her famous “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech in 1851 and more as a part of The University of Akron’s Rethinking Race: Black, White and Beyond series Feb. 22 to March 5.

Akron, summithistory.org

Haines House Underground Railroad Museum Ridgeway and Sarah Haines operated an Underground Railroad station at this Victorian home where they hid freedom seekers in the attic and possibly in an on-site cistern. They also hosted meetings of prominent abolitionists at their surrounding farm in Alliance, which was known as a hotbed of abolitionism. Their home and farmland now house the Alliance Area Preservation Society and a museum that’s set to reopen for tours this winter. Alliance, haineshouse.org

Spring Hill Historic Home Quaker sheep farmers Thomas and Charity Rotch hid freedom seekers in the attic of their springhouse and basement of their kitchen at this Underground Railroad stop. The 1821 home and 4,000-acre farm are now a museum you can visit. Massillon, springhillhistorichome.org

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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FINANCIAL PLANNING

[ by Alexandra Sobczak ]

Pocket Change Get answers to your pressing questions about 2020 taxes.

People have experienced a lot of change and financial hardship in the past year.

We speak with Steven Wagner, an Akron-based certified public accountant at Wagner & Co., about the circumstances people should be aware of while filing their 2020 taxes for the April 15 deadline.

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FINANCIAL PLANNING

What has changed in taxes this year?

SW: Aside from changes to tax brackets, which are standard, the biggest confusion we’re gonna see is stimulus payment[s].

You’re gonna get a letter from the IRS [Notice 1444-A]. The letter’s gonna say, Here’s what you got.

People are going to lose that letter. They need that letter because you have to take that number and put it in your tax returns.

If people don’t have Notice 1444-A when it’s time to file taxes, what happens?

SW: I’m gonna be sending them back to look in their bank accounts or whatever they can to find how much they got from the IRS. They’re gonna be guessing on When did you get it? … They signed the [first] bill in March. Go back and look at

your bank statements. … Mail has been slow, so be patient.

If you have a tax preparer, just take that all, put it in a folder, and give it to your preparer — that’s what I need. If you’re caring for it yourself, you will need the same information, so you want it all in one place.

How do you note stimulus checks on taxes?

SW: You go through your tax return, and you calculate your taxes due. Here’s your tax liability. Here’s all your withholdings and your payments against it. Then, a further calculation that’s built-in this year is what your stimulus was supposed to be. Here’s what it was. … It’s gonna reconcile the two numbers. … It’s either a plus, minus or zero. If you got paid too much, you owe.

If you didn’t get paid enough, you’re getting more. … [For example,] if you got $2,400 and you were only supposed to get $1,800, you’re gonna owe $600 back.

tax out of it. Otherwise, they’re gonna be looking at a bill. ...

Do you really wanna stop your withholding and have to pay it all at once come April? I don’t think so.

Most people, it will work, because people’s income doesn’t change that greatly between years. So if they use 2019 and you have to reconcile 2020, your income didn’t change that much. A lot of people — it will change. If you had a good or a bad year, got less money or got too much, it just depends.

If your income changed greatly between 2019 and 2020, your stimulus will be affected.

You’ll get something from the Department of Job and Family Services that says, This is how much we paid you. This is how much we withheld. Once again, it needs to go with all these other documents that show up and be given to your tax preparer or account for it yourself.

How does unemployment affect taxes?

SW: Unemployment is taxable.

You have the option to withhold. … Hopefully, people pay

Some businesses received loans and grants. How are those accounted for?

SW: It depends on the program it’s under. ... There were quite a few. Some at the state level, some at the local level, some at the federal level.

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FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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FINANCIAL PLANNING

The big one that made all the news was called the Paycheck Protection Program. … The government gave everybody two and a half months of salaries in cash for the whole company, but the stipulation was you had to keep paying the employees. That one is forgivable if you dot all the I’s and cross all the T’s. You had to continue to pay people. You had to pay all the money out.

You can use some of it for rent or insurance or a mortgage, but more than 60 percent had to go toward employees. You couldn’t reduce the number of employees you had. You had to continue paying the same quantity of people. If you followed all the rules, it became a forgivable grant.

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People have been sending donations directly to community members rather than through a registered nonprofit. How is that accounted for?

SW: It’s considered a gift. It’s not deductible. … [For nonprofit donations,] I preach to people, All deductions cost more than you make. ... If you’re in the 25 percent tax bracket, that $100 donation, saves $25. So it costs $75. Donate because there’s an intrinsic value for you. Don’t do it because of the tax benefit. I fully encourage people to help, but don’t do it because you’re getting a tax break. Because you really don’t.

Does that include platforms like GoFundMe?

SW: GoFundMes probably are gonna be nondeductible because those are set up for a specific person. Maybe a specific cause set through a charity could be deductible. But be sure. As a tax preparer, I’m not allowed to put anything in that charitable deduction in a return for more than $250, unless you get something from the charity and I see it says thank you [for your donation].

That sheet of paper for charity, $250 or more, is a required document, too. Make sure those are in your file, too.

Can home office supplies be written off for those filing as typical W-2 employees?

SW: All office deductions went away with the [former President Donald] Trump tax changes [for ‘18]. Now, you can work it out — the employer can reimburse the employee for costs.

That reimbursement of expenses is nontaxable to the employee, but it’s still deductible to the company. So it’s a way for the employer to give the employees some money for what they’re doing anyway without having any taxability on the employee.

But they have to document it. … Reimbursing your employee’s expenses rather than giving a stipend saves both of you money.

FINANCIAL PLANNING

Overall, what would you advise people to be conscious of in terms of 2020 taxes?

SW: People can still do an IRA deposit up to April 15. If they have a health savings account, they can still put money away up to April 15. Get your taxes done early, the sooner the better. There are ways to manipulate things even after Dec. 31, but if you bring your taxes April 14, there’s not a whole lot I can do.

Get as much into retirement accounts as you have the financial ability to do so. I preach that. ... We’re not working today so we can work tomorrow. We’re working today so we can relax tomorrow, hopefully.

[ Assistant Editor Alexandra Sobczak is passionate about inclusivity, correct grammar and pop music.

]

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FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

41

HEALTH & WELLNESS

[ by Kelly Petryszyn and Alexandra Sobczak ]

Peace Out Experience much-needed relaxation at these salons and spas.

Signature Pedicure // Scott Talbot SalonSpa Nix dry winter skin with decadent moisture infusion, a rich massage and a mud mask during this sumptuous pedicure (60 minutes, $56-$58, plus $5 for French nails) that leaves feet unbelievably soft and can be performed with either aloe or milk and honey products.

What it is: Instantly Zen by plunging your feet into a warm jetted whirlpool for an aromatic sea salt soak, reclining and turning on a massage chair while a technician files, buffs and trims your nails. Get a mini massage as the technician works a sugar scrub into your feet and calves to slough off dry skin and rubs on a callus remover and buffs your feet. Linger in luxury after the technician applies a mud mask and wraps your feet and legs in warm moist towels to help moisture deeper penetrate your skin. The lush treatment concludes with the technician slathering on massage butter to hydrate and repair your feet and moisturizer to soothe your skin.

Benefits: “It’s moisture overload,” says co-owner Shelly Talbot.

“You go from mud masks, moist towels, massage butter to moisturizer, so there’s four layers of moisture.” Plus, each set of scented 42

akronlife.com | FEBRUARY 2021

photo by Voesh and Lindsey Mitchell, Scott Talbot SalonSpa

products has extra benefits. The salt soak, scrub, mask, massage butter and moisturizer made with agave honey and soy milk extract provide extra gentle hydration for dry skin. The aloe products help inflammation because they contain natural aloe extracts that soothe skin. Talbot has a guest who attests the aloe pedicure calms her eczema. “She swears it’s the only cream she’s ever had that’s helped with the eczema on her feet,” Talbot says.

Why it’s great for pampering: Receive foot massages during three steps and transcend into deep relaxation. “It’s a lot more massage than your average pedicure,” Talbot says. “They massage the whole foot, the ankle, calf to just below the knee.” The whole treatment restores your skin. “Once you have the pedicure, you have no calluses, the cracks are gone, the fine lines are gone. Your feet feel so moist. You feel like a baby’s bottom,” Talbot laughs.

1041 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Road, Akron, 330-896-3476; 4080 Fulton Drive, Canton, 330-494-2030; scotttalbotsalonspa.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

photo by Stacy Manzi

towel on your face and a small massage. For added luxury, you can get a moisturizing paraffin hand dip ($13) that sits during the scalp treatment. A stylist massages tea tree shampoo in your hair, rinses it, drapes on a fresh hot towel and massages in a tea tree-based exfoliating treatment filled with microbeads. After it sets for five to 10 minutes, you get another scalp massage, a rinse and an optional blow-dry and style.

Tea Tree Scalp Treatment // The Hippie Hipster Men, it’s your turn. Last year was hard on all of us, and you deserve to kick back and spoil yourself by visiting a hair salon, too. This scalp treatment restores your scalp and leaves you feeling so refreshed.

What it is: The tea tree scalp treatment ($15, 30 minutes) at the Hippie Hipster salon starts with a tea tree oil-infused hot

Benefits: Tea tree oil, a natural antimicrobial, soothes and moisturizes your scalp. “It’s an invigorating thing for your scalp,” says owner Stacy Manzi. “It can help almost wake up your scalp.”

Although she specializes in men’s hair, women can also receive this treatment. Now’s a perfect time — just like how our hands get dry in the winter, so does our scalp. Not only is it needed; it just feels good. “It does help with dry scalp, but the tea tree in it kind of gives it a tingly refreshing feeling too,” Manzi says.

One of her clients gets the treatment frequently, even though he doesn’t have a really dry scalp. “He just enjoys how it feels to have that time,” she says.

Why it’s great for pampering: Going to a hair salon is a regular occasion for many women, but for men, it isn’t always as common. “Men have as much stress as we do. I think it’s good for them to take time to stop and relax, breathe and take care of themselves as well,” Manzi says. “It’s like a mini escape.”

Located inside Akron Brow Bar, 822 W. Market St., Akron, thehippiehipster.square.site

AT EASE Every spot has different COVID-19 safety precautions.

Here is what these salons and spas are doing.

• Prior to service, guests call and wait in their cars until technicians are ready.

• Staffers and guests go through temperature checks and health screenings upon arrival.

• Workers sanitize each salon station after every treatment and ask guests to use sanitizer or hand-washing sinks.

Staffers use fresh towels and capes for each guest.

• Staffers enforce masking for everyone.

• Cleaning crews deeply sanitize the salon several nights a week.

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

photos by Megan Aleman

Lash Lift and Brow Lamination // Traveling Spa Girl At a time when we’re wearing face masks, the attention is on our eyes. Boost your everyday eyelash and brow looks with a lash lift (60 minutes, $80), which adds depth, and a brow lamination (60 minutes, $75), which fixes shape and direction. Both are low-maintenance treatments that create dramatic looks.

What it is: Sit back and close your eyes as owner Megan Aleman brushes through your lashes with a comb, curling them and then tinting the faded ends. The blue-black vegetable oil-based tint appears dark. The results of this semipermanent treatment last up to six weeks. If you pair your lash lift with a brow lamination, Aleman aligns your brow hairs so they’re all going in the same upward direction by combing a perming solution through. The solution softens the hair follicle to straighten the brow for up to six weeks. She includes a complimentary brow tint and wax after the treatment too. “The main focus now is eyes and brows,” she says.

“Most people are pairing the two services together.”

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Benefits: Even someone without long lashes can get a lash lift, which creates a fuller and deeper look after they’re curled and tinted.

Lash lifts give the appearance of wearing mascara and require only minimal upkeep like brushing your lashes. “It’s kind of a nice treatment to get if they wanna do a wake-up and go,” Aleman says. Brow laminations stop hair from growing in multiple directions, which prevents a sparse look and creates a pleasant shape Aleman describes as the “European fluffy look.” But if you don’t want that, no worries.

“You can style them however you want,” she says.

Why it’s great for pampering: It takes the pressure off your morning routine and boosts your mood. “For me, a new mom, I don’t have time to put on mascara. I barely have time to brush my hair. When I get my lashes lifted, I can feel somewhat normal about myself,” Aleman says. “It kind of gives you a little bit more self-confidence.”

217 N. Water St., Kent, 216-337-5536, travelingspagirl.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

SIMPLY INDULGE Reinvigorate at home with takeaway treatments.

Get youthful soft hands and feet. Receive ultimate hydra-

O2 Body Perfection Wrap // The Spa at Glenmoor Feel rejuvenated head to toe with the O2 Body Perfection Wrap (60 minutes, $115). The massages during the full-body treatment relax you as Natura Bissé products hydrate, soften and brighten your skin.

What it is: Begin by laying down and doing some deep breathing to relax. Then, for exfoliation, a service provider applies a HydroPeel all over your body, with a focus on areas that have especially dry skin, like knees, elbows and heels. Afterward, the provider applies a gel-based oxygen perfecting mask that purifies, invigorates and awakens your skin, wraps you in a towel and performs a head massage. “They’re going to stay in the room, relax with calming music for 15 minutes while the ingredients and all of the products really do their work,” says spa director Stephanie Norman. Once the mask is removed, enjoy an all-over massage with the oxygen body perfecting oil, which has antioxidants and macronutrients that increase hydration and reduce cellulite.

Benefits: The multi-step process thoroughly treats your skin with an exfoliator, a purifying mask and oil. “Those help to eliminate toxins from the body,” Norman says. The wrap provides a firming effect, hydrates your skin, prevents fluid retention and swelling and gets skin glowing. “Any water or fluid that is stuck in the tissues or cavities of the body — this is gonna help get that flowing,” Norman says.

“It also protects the skin from dryness and premature aging.”

Why it’s great for pampering: The body wrap allows you to relax while the high-end Natura Bissé products deeply nourish dry, dull skin to reveal vibrance. While there, you can enjoy a complimentary glass of Champagne or a mimosa, and you can also add hair, nails or extra massage services. Either way, you’ll feel total luxury.

“It’s a great service to just completely detox and treat your entire body,” Norman says.

photo by Stephanie Norman

tion by purchasing collagen booties and gloves infused with argan oil and shea butter ($7.50, curbside pickup available) from Scott Talbot SalonSpa in Akron and Canton. Just 15 minutes after using the booties and gloves with anti-aging benefits, your skin “looks supple, soft, moisturized, hydrated. Less fine lines, less wrinkles,” says co-owner Shelly Talbot.

Love your face. Treat yourself with a facial kit or beauty box from the Traveling Spa Girl in Kent. Each kit and box contains three to nine products.

The Valentine’s beauty box ($100) includes a chocolate skin rescue mask, raspberry lip scrub and raspberry lip balm. “The products vary from cleansers, toners, serums, exfoliant, moisturizer and SPF,” says owner Megan Aleman.

Refresh your scalp. To-go kits ($15) from the Hippie Hipster salon in Akron contain enough tea tree shampoo, conditioner and scalp treatment to moisturize and pamper your scalp twice. “It will be an athome treatment just like the salon,” says owner Stacy Manzi.

Boost your skin care routine. Bring the experience of Canton’s Spa at Glenmoor home with Natura Bissé products. The Tolerance Cleanser ($52) removes dirt and makeup from pores, the C&C Vitamin Eye cream ($60) fights dark circles and the Essential Shock Intense cream ($125) fights wrinkles and firms your skin.

Located inside Glenmoor Country Club, 4191 Glenmoor Road NW, Canton, 330-966-3524, glenmoorcc.com FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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GOOD EATS

FEBRUARY 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 2

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 Arcadia Grille Authentic Italian cuisine with pasta and chops. Breakfast served Sat. and Sun. A local favorite for more than 85 years. 321 Court Ave. NW, Canton, 330-454-6055 $$ B, L, D, A, W Arnie’s Public House An attractive, affordable restaurant with a modern twist on comfort food. Featuring award-winning burgers, chicken and waffles, fish and chips, pasta and vegetarian dishes. Also serving brunch on Sat. and Sun. 1682 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-0154 $$$ L,D,A,T, W 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 46

akronlife.com | FEBRUARY 2021

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 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn. 3180 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-867-5218 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Beau’s on the River Stunning views of the falls with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary decor. Fusion eclectic cuisine, lunch buffet and Sun. brunch. Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-920-7530 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Belgrade Gardens Famous for fried chicken and homestyle cooking. 401 E. State St., Barberton, 330-745-0113; 3476 Massillon Road, Uniontown, 330-896-3396 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Bellacino’s Known for grinders, pizza, pasta and fresh salads. Full bar, patio and banquet room with dance floor.

3657 Fishcreek Road, Stow, 330-6783000 $$ L, D, A, T, W Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood. 137 Court Ave. SW, Canton, 330-453-8424 $$$$ L, D, A, T Bianca’s Italian Ristorante & Lounge Traditional Italian, juicy steaks and fresh seafood. 4284 Beverly Hills Drive, Brunswick, 330-225-0927 $$$ 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 $$$$ L, D, T Bomba Taco & Bar Chef-inspired Latin tacos, international rice bowls and creative desserts like mango mojito sorbet and churro ice cream sandwiches. 3900 Medina Road, Akron, 234-466-7180 $$$ L, D, A, T Bombay Sitar Fine Indian cuisine. Food is natural and prepared fresh daily.

5111 Fulton Drive NW, Canton, 330305-0671 $$ L, D, T, W Bricco Open since September 2003, this

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restaurant is known for its eclectic seasonal menu, wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. 1 W. Exchange St., Akron, 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T, V, W Bricco in Kent Menu is modeled after the original Bricco in downtown Akron. À la carte brunch on Sun. 210 S. Depeyster St., Kent, 330-677-1335 $$$ 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 Brubaker’s Pub Specialty sandwiches, wraps, pizzas, appetizers and a full bar. Bottomless soup and salad special. 4005 Medina Road, Montrose, 330-666-8021; 5823 Darrow Road, Hudson, 330-650-9401; 3939 Massillon Road, Green, 330896-8803; 4141 Bridgewater Parkway, Stow, 330-475-1525 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Burntwood Tavern Owned by the same couple that runs the other Burntwood locations in Rocky River, Brecksville, Chagrin Falls and Solon, this restaurant’s menu features steaks, sliders, hand-cut fries, smoked, planked and woodgrilled food. 2291 Riverfront Parkway, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-794-7085 burntwoodtavern.com $$$$ L, D, A, T, W The Cabin Upscale Italian within the Mario’s International Spa and Hotel complex. 35 E. Garfield Road, Aurora, 330-562-9171 $$$$ 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

UNCORKED

GOOD EATS

[ by Mike McKenney ]

Bourbon Cream Buffalo Trace Distillery

Root beer floats are such simple joys. The childhood treat has gotten more grown-up with the new Buffalo Trace Distillery Bourbon Cream liqueur recently released in local stores.

It comes from the Frankfort, Kentucky, distillery that has been crafting spirits for over 200 years — making it the oldest continually operating distillery in the country.

Many of its flagship brands are named after its craftsmen including E.H. Taylor Jr. and W.L. Weller, and the company remains family-owned. Despite all the growth, it still uses ages-old distilling methods and the same high level of craft.

The Bourbon Cream starts with Buffalo Trace Kentucky bourbon whiskey, which is made from Kentucky grains and is fermented in charred white oak barrels. That smooth bourbon is combined with rich cream for a sweet vanilla flavor that has notes of chocolate and caramel and a hint of cinnamon. The finish is nutty and extra creamy.

The liqueur creates an indulgent root beer float when it’s paired with Freddie’s Old Fashioned Soda, a sister brand named after Freddie Johnson, a third-generation Buffalo Trace employee and tour guide. Freddie’s root beer is made with herbs, birch oil and imported vanilla and has an old-fashioned taste. Simply mix the root beer with the Bourbon Cream for a sinfully good dessert that’s reminiscent of the classic, or make it a spiked float by topping it with ice cream.

For another boozy option, mix the Bourbon Cream with coffee or just enjoy it chilled or on the rocks.

No matter how you sip it, the liqueur makes for a new treat that offers nostalgia and a whole other level of joy.

Bourbon Cream and Freddie’s Old Fashioned Soda can be purchased at Acme Fresh Market, Buehler’s Fresh Foods, Discount Drug Mart, Giant Eagle, Heinen’s and Meijer locations.

[

Mike McKenney is a manager at Heidelberg Distributing Co.

]

TO MAKE AN ADULT ROOT BEER FLOAT: Combine 2 ounces of Bourbon Cream and 4 ounces of Freddie’s Old Fashioned Root Beer. For extra richness, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

FEBRUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

47

GOOD EATS UNTAPPED

[ by Aaron Fowler ]

Cozy Couples Make a Valentine’s Day in special with craft beer pairings.

BOULDER BEER CO. SHAKE and BREWERY OMMEGANG ROSETTA Colorado’s Boulder Beer Co. has won numerous accolades for its Shake, which is a rich dark chocolate porter that has flavors and aromatics of coffee and caramel. These characteristics make it a great beer to pair with the Rosetta sour ale, made from a blend of a brown ale aged over cherries and a bright fruity kriek, from Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown, New York. This tart-sweet combo of beers is a natural fit for a dessert of chocolatecovered cherries. Shake, $9.99 six-pack cans, Rosetta, $11.99 four-pack cans

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 Ranchero Authentic Mexican. Try a 44-ounce jumbo lime margarita, arroz con pollo and flan for dessert.

Kids’ menu and vegetarian menu.

562 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton, 330-753-8494 $$ L, D, A, T Casa Del Rio Mexican dining. 839 High St., Wadsworth, 330-335-4001 $$ L, D, A, T Caston & Main Brew Yard This cozy, casual gastropub with a fireplace and two outdoor patios with fire 48

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HOPPIN’ FROG BREWERY BORIS and URBAN ARTIFACT THE GADGET We have a nice Buckeye State lineup for you.

Akron’s Hoppin’ Frog Brewery has made quite the name in the beer industry with its awardwinning Bodacious Oatmeal Russian Imperial Stout. The lavishly dark and complex beast brings forth flavors of roasted cocoa and coffee. Sip it alongside Cincinnati brewery Urban Artifact’s the Gadget, a fruit smoothie-tasting sour brewed with 1,200 pounds of blackberries, 1,200 pounds of raspberries and 30 grams of vanilla beans per 30 barrel batch.

BORIS, $17.99 four-pack bottles, the Gadget, $11.99 four-pack cans

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

JACKIE O’S RAZZ WHEAT and LEFT HAND BREWING CO. PEANUT BUTTER MILK STOUT For another fusion of dessert-like flavors, pop open this devilish yet delightful duo. Jackie O’s Razz Wheat is a staple of Athens, Ohio, for its easygoing wheat beer taste infused with natural raspberry puree that conjures up the right amount of sweetness. Create the ideal pairing with Left Hand Brewing Co. Peanut Butter Milk Stout, made in Longmont, Colorado, that tastes and smells like a peanut butter cup in a glass. Layers upon layers of flavors peel back as you swill, leaving you craving more long after it’s gone.

Razz Wheat, $10.99 six-pack cans, Peanut Butter Milk Stout, $10.99 six-pack cans

and craft beer. Closed Sun. and Mon. 3984 Kent Road, Stow, 330-688-2684 $$$ L, D, A, T Corkscrew Saloon Specializes in fresh seafood, steaks and chops, prepared by executive chef Ryan Marino. Live entertainment Wed. nights. 811 W. Liberty, Medina, 330-725-0220 $$$$ L, D, A, T Craft Social Bar A large variety of craft beer, cocktails, wines and whiskeys that accompany upscale bar food.

Watermark Building, 1846 Front St., Suite G, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-5711409 $$$ D, A, T, V Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 57 E. Market St., Akron, 330-253-1234 $$ L, D, A, T, V Crave Cantina Latin fare meets global tacos at this modern, artistic

Find all six at select Giant Eagle, 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.

]

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, 234-678-

GOOD EATS 3612 $$$ L, D, A, T Danny Boy’s If you love the Rat Pack, you’ll love this menu. Try the Old Blue Eyes Mac & Cheese or the Chairman of the Board Calzone.

6081 Dressler Road N, Canton, 330-499-3726; 10 Tallmadge Circle, Tallmadge, 330-633-7844 $$$ L, D, A, T Darby’s on Fifty-Nine Rustic dining with an assortment of dishes, including crispy calamari and filet mignon sliders, complemented by craft beer.

2764 state Route 59, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-922-7540 $$$ L, D, A, T Dave’s Cosmic Subs Sign the walls at this sub shop, featuring psychedelic and music memorabilia decor. 186 N. Main St., Hudson, 330-342-5666 $$ L, D, T D.B.A., Dante Boccuzzi Akron, Modern American food in a rock ‘n’ roll palace setting. Several menu items 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 Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970.

Specializes in family-style shish kebabs. 204 12th St. NW, Canton, 330-456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St., Akron, 330-762-5877 $ B, L, A, D (Saturdays only), T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, authentic 1950s-style decor. All steaks are hand-cut, and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No credit cards Dontino’s Fine Italian Cuisine Homestyle Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T Edgar’s Restaurant Serves a variety of entrees, such as chargrilled grouper.

Homemade soups, salads and starters. 530 Nome Ave. at Good Park Golf Course, Akron, 330-869-3000 $$$ 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 Emidio & Sons Since 1957, the familyowned Italian restaurant has been serving house-made pastas and specialty pizzas. 636 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-4777; 3204 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-4282 $$ B, L, D, T Erie Street Kitchen The chef-driven food counter inside the historic Venice Cafe in downtown Kent serves up authentic Southern comfort food with a twist, including a Nashville

hot chicken banh mi and chevre goat cheese balls. 163 Erie St., Kent, 330593-5928 $$$ D, A, W, 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 $$ L, D, W, T The Eye Opener Diner-style menu features jams and jellies from Crooked River Herb Farm. Upscale decor includes photos of historic Akron. 1688 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-1114 $$ B, L, D, T Farmer Boy Restaurant House specialties include Greek souvlaki, broaster chicken and delicious desserts. 1324 Canton Road, Akron, 330-784-4052 $$ B, L, D, T Fat Head’s Brewery A brewpub with wellknown beers, sandwiches as big as your head and hearty appetizers like fried pickles, pepper jack bites and Beasty BBQ wings. 3885 Everhard Road NW, Canton, 330-244-8601 $$$ L, D, W, A, T Firehouse Grill & Pub Watch sports and enjoy steaks and Buffalo wings. 10 Tallmadge Circle, Tallmadge, 330634-9967 $$ L, D, A, T Fisher’s Café & Pub American cuisine.

1607 Main St., Peninsula, 330-6572651 $$ L, D, A, T Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Aged beef, chops, fresh seafood, salad and more than 100 wines by the glass. 4000 Medina Road, Akron, 330-670-5200 $$$$ 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, 330-655-3547 $$ L, D, A, T Foundry Social Have some nostalgic fun with games like duckpin bowling or electric go-karts while enjoying craft cocktails, elevated pub sandwiches and share plates. 333 Foundry St., Medina, 330-333-9000 $$ 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 $$ D, A Franklin Square Deli Quality sandwich shop with a racing theme. 108 S. Water St., Kent, 330-673-2942 $$ L, T Fred’s Diner Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch. 930 Home Ave., Akron, 330-535-3733 $ B, L, T Fresco Mexican Grill and Salsa Bar A new Mexican cuisine experience in the Kent area. Big burritos, tacos, warm soups, quesadillas and more. Known for its beer selection and extensive salsa bar. 100 E. Erie St., Kent, 330677-2588 $$ L, D, A, T The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building.

Fantastic desserts. 201 Park Centre Drive, Wadsworth, 330-334-3663 $$$

B, L, D, A, T Garretts Mill Breakfast items, sandwiches, soup and house-made ice cream. 4226 Hudson Drive, Stow, 330-926-1344 $$ B, L, T Gasoline Alley Eclectic menu featuring pizza, salads, sandwiches and sauerkraut balls. 870 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-2670 $$$ L, D, A, T Girves Brown Derby An Akron favorite since 1941. Hardwood-fired freshcut steaks, seafood, wine, craft beer and full-service bar. 4670 Everhard Road, Canton, 330-494-4413; 5051 Eastpointe Drive, Medina, 330-721-1731; 9230 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330-626-2171; brownderbyusa.com $$$$ L (only on weekends), D, A, T, W Golden Dragon Chinese fare. Also offers traditional Japanese cooking and sushi. 1634 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-1109 $$ L, D, A, 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 $$$ L, D, A, T Grinders Above & Beyond Family restaurant. Grinders, burgers, dinners, appetizers, house-made soups and pies. 1671 N. Main St., North Canton, 330-497-4800; 3114 Whipple Ave., Canton, 330-477-5411; 1212 Maple, Hartville, 330-587-4280; 1820 W. State St., Alliance, 330-8216665; 404 E. Lincoln Way, Minerva, 330-868-7824; 500 W. Main St., Louisville, 330-875-9700 $ L, D, A, T Guiseppe’s Pizza Family-owned pizzeria known for its Sicilian-style square pizza. 14 E. Caston Road, Akron, 330644-8842 $$ L, D, T H2 Huth & Harris Wine Merchants With a selection of over 200 wines, this Medina-based winery serves up a sizable selection in a rustic, cellarlike atmosphere. Also offers large selection of craft beers, ciders, kombucha, meads and a large selection of tapas dishes. 221 S. Court St., Medina; 427 Tuscarawas St. E, Canton: 330-815-4959 $$$ L, D, A, T Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery A spacious restaurant serving homestyle food made from scratch with a bakery, oil and vinegar tasting room and candy shop on the site of the Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market. 1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330-877-9353 $$$ L, D, T, W 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 Ken Stewart’s Lodge Casual, Adirondackstyle atmosphere, eclectic cuisine.

1911 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-8881 $$$$ D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Tre Belle Italian atmosphere and authentic cuisine.

Specialties include an antipasto bar,

big drinks and an extensive wine list.

1911 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-9990 $$$ D, A, V, T Kennedy’s BBQ Pit-smoked ham, pork, beef, turkey, pulled pork sandwiches topped with cabbage relish, bean soup, chili and Troyer’s pie by the slice. 1420 Seventh St. NW, Canton, 330-454-0193 $ L, D, T 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 $$$ L, D, A, T Luca’s New York Style Pizza Pizza, calzones, stromboli, cheesesteaks and subs. 3451 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-688-9595 $$$ 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

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

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GOOD EATS 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, 330-983-9787 $$ B, L, T Maize Valley Winery & Craft Brewery Sample wine by bottle or glass, as well as craft beer. Taste 100-plus types of cheeses. Appetizers and sandwiches. 6193 Edison St. NE, Hartville, 330-877-8344 $$ 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 Melt Bar & Grilled This sandwich bar allows you to enjoy redesigned, gourmet versions of the grilled cheese sandwich, along with ice cold beers and a great atmosphere. Patio dining is also available. 3921 Medina Road, Akron, 330-983-0015 $$ L, D, A, T Menches Bros. Restaurant Inventors of the hamburger and ice cream cone.

In Akron since 1901. 3700 Massillon Road, Green, 330-896-2288 $$ B, L, D, A, T The Merchant Tavern With Owner Anthony Piscazzi’s family history running Akron’s beloved Wine Merchant restaurant and Chef Victor Todaro in the kitchen, this new restaurant already has a great start. Retail wines available. Tues., Wed., Thurs. 3:30 p.m.-midnight, Fri. 3:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m., Sat. noon-1:30 a.m., Sun. noon9 p.m. Lunch served on weekends.

1824 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-8659510 $$$ L, D, A, T Michael’s AM Casual, family-style dining.

Full breakfast and lunch menu featuring sandwiches and daily specials.1562 Akron Peninsula Road, Akron, 330-929-3447 $$ B, L, T No credit cards

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Mike’s Place Unique atmosphere, extensive menu. 1700 S. Water St., Kent, 330-673-6501 $$ B, L, D, A, T Missing Falls Brewery Located in the historic BF Goodrich factory, Missing Falls Brewery is the latest addition to Akron’s craft brewery scene. Offering sixteen craft beers, a spacious taproom, an open brewery concept, and a family friendly environment in a turn of the century piece of Americana. Oh, did we mention artisan pizza too? 540 S. Main St., Suite 112, Akron, 234-231-1000 missingfalls.com $$ A 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 $$ L, D, T Papa Gyros Greek Grill Authentic Greek fare. Greek wine and beer. 3939 Massillon Road, Green, 330-899-0707; 4760 Everhard Road, Canton, 330497-1100; 320 W. State St., Alliance, 330-823-7773; 2045 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330-456-9000; 1 N. Hawkins Ave., Akron, 330-247-2475 $$ 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 $$$ L, D, A, T Parasson’s Good pasta. Great for family dining. 959 E. Waterloo Road, Akron, 330-724-9375; 3983 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-688-3650; 364 Wooster Road N., Barberton, 330-753-2264 $$ L, D, A, T Park Street Pizza Locally grown and raised ingredients are used to make regular and gluten-free pizzas, salads, wings, sandwiches and desserts. 215 Dover Road, Sugarcreek, 330-852-2993 $$$ L, D, T Platinum Dragon A great Highland Square spot for people-watching.

Menu features a variety of Chinese favorites. 814 W. Market St., Akron, 330-434-8108 $$ L, D, A, T Primo’s Deli An Akron mainstay since 1979. Try their famous corned beef sandwich or spicy Italian sub, and finish with a slice of house-made carrot cake. Closed Sun. and Mon. 1707 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, 330745-9056 $$ L, D, A, T 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 $$ L, D, A, T Rosewood Grill Seasonally inspired with the fresh appeal of a local farmers market. Happy hour, Mon.-Fri., 3-6 p.m. 36 E. Streetsboro St., Hudson, 330-656-2100 $$$$ L Fri/Sat only, D, A, T Rubber City’s Remarkable Coffee & Cafe A full espresso menu, smoothies, grab

and go house-made sandwiches, soups and pastries, including gluten-free options. Off-site catering available. Closed weekends. Canal Place, Bounce Innovation Hub building, 526 S. Main St., Akron, 234901-4334 $ B, L, 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 $$ L, D, T Sisters Century House Historic building overlooks Ohio Canal. Known for twice-baked potatoes. 123 S. Canal St., Canal Fulton, 330-854-9914 $$ B, 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 Steinly’s Down-home breakfasts are a mainstay. 235 E. Waterloo Road, Akron, 330-773-6422 $ B, L, D, T Stricklands Frozen Custard Founded in 1936. Run by the third generation of the Strickland family. 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 $ T Tim’s Pizzeria and Pub Casual, sit-down restaurant serving pizza, pasta, house-made soups, sandwiches and desserts. Open for lunch only on weekends. 2823 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-1530 $$ D, A, T Trecaso’s Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s best red sauce. Highland Square spot known for several ice cream options. 780 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-1511 $$ L, D, T 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. $$$ L, D, A, T Valley Cafe Owned by a five-star gourmet chef. Features friendly service, dishes made from scratch and famous cabbage soup. 1212 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-8650101; 101 High St., Wadsworth, 330331-7555 $ B, L, D (Wadsworth only), T The Valley Inn This one-time country roadhouse has been transformed into a family hot spot. The prime rib is gigantic. 15004 Portage St., Doylestown, 330-658-9859 $$$ L, D, A, T Vasili’s Greek Cuisine A welcome addition to Akron’s restaurant scene, Vasili’s provides big flavors and huge portions at a reasonable price with excellent customer service. The moussaka is excellent, and the baklava is decadent. 1702 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-864-0722 $$ L, D, T Water Main Grille Sandwiches, soups and dinner platters. 339 Main St., Wadsworth, 330-331-7757 $$ 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 Whitehouse Chicken A Barberton tradition. 180 Wooster Road N., Barberton, 330-745-0449; 4195 Massillon Road, Uniontown, 330896-5644; 199 Great Oaks Trail, Wadsworth, 330-335-6000 $$ L, D, T Whitey’s Booze N’ Burgers Famous chili, generous portions and live entertainment on the weekends.

3600 Brecksville Road, Richfield, 330659-3600 $$ D, A No credit cards Wild Goats Coffee & Cafe Offers light entrees, vegan and vegetarian soups, and exceptional coffee. 319 W. Main St., Kent, 330-677-2326 $$ B, L, D, T The Wine Mill Open daily for wine, craft beer, and bites made from fresh, local ingredients. The rustic Wine Mill serves salads, sliders and cheeseboards, along with Mason jar desserts. The Wine Mill is available for weddings and private events. 4964 Akron Cleveland Road, Peninsula, 234-571-2594 $$$ L, D, A, V Please send any changes or corrections to kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup. com.

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

PARTING SHOT

[ by Alexandra Sobczak, photo cour tesy of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens and Summit Memory/Akron-Summit County Public Library ]

“

Off to the Races Akron, 1910

”

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has made more than just car tires. At its beginning in 1898, it manufactured bicycle and carriage tires, poker chips and horseshoe pads. Here, Goodyear’s founder, Frank A. Seiberling, and a comrade ride horseback outside Seiberling’s East Market Street home. As automobile tires became in-demand, Goodyear really sped up production. Housing reached capacity in Akron as more workers moved in, so Seiberling created employee housing, recreation and educational facilities on the Goodyear campus. In 1915, construction of Seiberling’s Stan Hywet estate finished, and his family moved into the property that is now Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens.

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VOTED AKRON’S BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT FIVE YEARS IN A ROW -A kro n L i fe M a g a z i n e

MONTROSE • 330.777.2005 KINGFISHAKRON.COM

VOTED AKRON’S BEST COCKTAILS, BEST HAPPY HOUR

H R C L E V E L A N D. CO M No rth ea st Oh io ’s Premier, Aw a rd-W in n in g Rest aurant s

Westlake

Independence

Downtown Cleveland

Rocky River

Strongsville | Hudson | Westlake