January 2015

Around Town: The Small Place of Miracles

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The 330's Most Stolen Magazine

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january 2015 / vol. 13 / issue 1

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On The Cover

/ 34 Private Schools / Chalk illustration hand-lettered by Christa Allen / Holy Family student Marissa Cerreto photographed by Shane Wynn

Features

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Star Students The area’s best and brightest young scholars

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Quick Q&A Learn more about our local private schools

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The Chart A side-by-side look at The 330’s private schools

One of our five Star Students: 8th-grade Old Trail student Zain Stiffler 4

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pages

10 the gamut

64 uncorked

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agenda

Departments

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/ Mail Bonding

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/ From the Editor

18 Entertainment listings & Calendar of events

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/ Radar (Seen + Heard)

24 FLASH: Summa Society Celebration

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/ Agenda

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/ All the Best

27 FLASH: Taste of the NFL

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/ The Gamut

28 FLASH: 13th Annual Sapphire Ball

I Like to Like So this is the new year ...

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/ The Interview Terra Milo Certified Health Coach

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/ Subject Matter "At Home in the Dark"

by Richard Figge

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/ Around Town

Special Sections

/ 48 Bridal Newlywed Know-How

/ 58 Financial Planning Three Not-So-Common New Year's Resolutions

29 AkronLife's 2015 Best of the City Ballot

63 / Good Eats (notable food & drink) 63 Restaurant listings 64 Uncorked: Easy-To-Drink Reds - 19 Crimes and Juxtapōz 66 Untapped: Heavy Seas CrossBones Session IPA 67 Small Bite: Park St. Pizza

American Cancer Society Discovery Shop w w w. akronlife.com

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mail bonding

Tell us what's on your mind.

Comments? Got something to say about an article you read in akronlife? Or maybe you want to tell us about something great happening in the area. Send comments and suggestions to: akronlife, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313 and please include your name and address. Or, e-mail them to editor@bakermediagroup.com.

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

Publisher Colin Baker

An Interview with the Knight Foundation's Josh McManus

volume 1 2 / issue 1 2

december 2014

Innovating Medicine Local doctors and scientists are pioneering state-of-the-art technology and health care procedures.

Dr. Charles Kunos and Akron's cutting-edge Vero SBRT technology

Doctor Profiles Meet some of The 330's outstanding physicians.

+ First Night Akron Program Book

The Gamut Eyes Bent Skyward

The Twisted Olive Owners of Gervasi Vineyard open new eatery in Green.

Craft Beer Bar More than meets the eye

Get Your Face In Our Magazine HAVE AKRON, WILL TRAVEL - Send us pics of yourself with a copy of akronlife magazine from your travels around the globe and end up on this page!

cbaker@bakermediagroup.com

Editor-in-Chief Don Baker Jr. dbakerjr@bakermediagroup.com

Creative Director William L. Teckmyer III wteckmyer@bakermediagroup.com

Managing Editor Abby Cymerman acymerman@bakermediagroup.com

Have Travel, Will Come to Akron

Contributing Writers Paula R. Chesser Aaron Fowler Rick Rodger Rodney Wilson

I traveled from Miami to Akron to visit with Mia and Mike O’Hara, parents of rising West Virginia University football sensation and NFL prospect Shaquille Riddick, to watch Riddick and his Mountaineer teammates play on national TV.

Graphic Designer Christa Allen Photographer Shane Wynn

Santura Pegram Miami

swynn@bakermediagroup.com

Sales Colin Baker Melissa Cooley Bunny Lacey Steven Tyson

Memories from a Retired Councilman Enjoyed the story about Bob Lane [November 2014, “The Blimp That Almost Wasn’t”.]

When I decided to run for Akron City Council in 1977, Bob advised my campaign.

He had great advice, and I followed it for 20 years, when I decided it was time to retire and do other things.

John V. Frank Akron

sales@bakermediagroup.com

Circulation Jessica Burkhart jburkhart@bakermediagroup.com

330-253-0056 ext. 112

Correction Note to Self: Get Eyes Checked In the December 2014 “Elite Physicians Guide,” ophthalmologist Charles H. Davis’ name was listed incorrectly.

Look for these special features in upcoming issues.

In February, look for Desserts, Life @ 50+ and our Neighborhood: Portage County section.

In March, look for Super Singles: Athletes, Top Dentists, Financial Planning, and our Summer Camps section.

In April, look for Pets, Go Red for Women, Real Estate, Education and our Camps Directory section.

To advertise in one of these special issues, contact Colin Baker at 330-253-0056 ext. 104 t cbaker@bakermediagroup.com 6

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Interns Andrew Keller – Photography Kevin Cletzer – Design Mackenzie Wallace – Editorial January 2015, Volume 13, Issue 1 (ISSN No. 74470 57871) akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313. Copyright 2014 © 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. $3.95 each plus $3.50 shipping & handling.

Editorial, advertising and business offices: (330) 253-0056, fax (330) 253-5868.

from the editor

We Are All Inventors / Everyone has at least one invention in them. / My father invented a collapsible clothes basket. >> You see, we lived in a 21-foot trailer, and there wasn’t any room for big things like round clothes baskets. His collapsible basket folded into a round disk and could be easily stored between the sink and the stove.

I only remember the prototype which worked well. Life and work intervened, and someone else invented a square one which was much simpler to use and easy to build.

I, too, have a few inventions to my credit; none have been patented so far. But my as-yet-unnamed forward-facing putter — which I have been developing for several years — is, I think, patent-worthy, and Akron, Ohio is the perfect place to patent it.

Outside of Alexandria, Va., we have more patent attorneys per capita than any other place on Earth, I would argue. After all, Inventure Place was built here because of the political might of such heavyweights as the late patent attorney Ned Oldham, who led the fight along with the local politicos to have the Inventors Hall of Fame built here. What we got was an amazing building on Broadway Street in Akron, when the National Inventors Hall of Fame was moved back to Alexandria, but that’s another story …

Even Ohio’s governor, the late James A. Rhodes, was an inventor. * So when I got the invitation to the November grand opening of the National Inventors Hall of Fame Akron Gallery, I was excited to see it. The display itself is housed in the gift shop of the former Inventure Place and is somewhat underwhelming as it brings back the format used in the original Hall of Fame, which had been housed on the building’s mezzanine level.

This Hall of Fame includes just a few of the exhibits from the Alexandria National Inventors Hall of Fame and makes the same mistake found in the original, failed HOF. Everything is told in print with no hands-on copies of inventions or their prototypes. One could learn as much from the Internet as the Akron Gallery, but it’s worth a visit just to see the slick multi-media display.

I admit, there is one redeeming facet of Inventure Place that brings inventors of all ages together every summer from all over the country.

At Camp Invention, children are introduced to the idea of ideas. Ideas turn into inventions, and inventions better all of our lives. When I was a kid, I would have jumped at the chance to go to a place where they teach you how to work on your inventions. For more information, contact Camp Invention at campinvention.org.

We at AkronLife wish all of you joy and peace in this new year. * I emailed one of Governor Rhodes’ biographers, Lee Leonard, who co-wrote “James A. Rhodes – Ohio Colossus.” This is his reply: “Rhodes was not an inventor in the classic sense, tinkering with something until he found a way to make it work. He was an idea guy — he would have an idea and tell somebody else to do it or hire people to do the work. That's the way he got credit for writing books.

The light is a solar powered Nokero light (nokero.com) which has brought light to the night in parts of the world where there is no electricity.

One idea that panned out — although he never found a way to market it — was a system of airlocks and filters that took 99.9 percent of impurities out of the air in an enclosed space. It had its roots in a visit to the Pontiac Silverdome with his grandkids who were so impressed with their surroundings that they wanted a similar place to play at home.

Rhodes envisioned an ‘Environmental City’ in which there would be restaurants, homes, recreation areas, stores — everything — under a dome where the air would be pure, and no one would get sick.

He commissioned people to develop this system, and they took existing technology, combined the components and worked it out for a residence first. Rhodes got a patent on it and had it installed in his two-story house in Upper Arlington, outside Columbus. I was in the house, and the air was noticeably easier to breathe than the outside air.

Although the Central Ohio Lung Association had the system installed in its building, as did a nearby doctor's office, Rhodes could never market it commercially.

Rhodes had other big ideas but none came to fruition to the point where you could classify him as an inventor. In the 1970s he wanted to drill into shale formations to extract natural gas, but the technology wasn't available. It is now, and it's called fracking. He also worked with a tinkerer in Dayton during the gasoline shortage of the early 1970s on an automobile that would get 80 miles to the gallon — the forerunner of today's hybrid — but again, the necessary battery technology wasn't developed, and nothing came of it. So Rhodes was a dreamer but not an inventor.”

Don Baker, Jr., Founder and Editor-in-Chief dbakerjr@bakermediagroup.com w w w. akronlife.com

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january 2015 / vol. 13 / issue 1

Did you know the original name for Medina, Ohio was Mecca?

RADAR seen+heard

, 0 0 0 0 0 0 , $1 Countryside Farmers' Markets Hit It Big During the Countryside Farmers' Markets' 10th anniversary, they hit their $1 million mark in sales. The record reflects the growing trend for support of local businesses and conscious food choices. The markets exhibit goods from 64 local businesses.

An Akron First Since 1980 The first new hotel since 1980 has opened in Akron's city limits. The 139-room Hilton Garden Inn was built on a vacant parking lot adjacent to Goodyear's old headquarters. The hotel's first residents were locals Harold and Eunice Craig who booked around 1 ½ hours after opening.

UA Poet Receives Prestigious Award The National Endowment for the Arts has selected Dr. Mary Biddinger, a University of Akron English professor, to be one of 36 to receive a Literature Fellowship in Creative Writing award.

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Lift-Off for Cafe O'Play Cafe O'Play is a new and inventive coffee shop opened by John and Carolyn Green in the Graham Square Plaza.

This coffee shop features an indoor playground for kids to play and burn off some energy while parents can sit back, relax and enjoy a latté. The kids playground includes a toddler play-area, two levels of climbing and crawling equipment, a two-level clubhouse and much more. The coffee house features a stage for live music, breakfast, lunch and dinner options, Rose Mary's Boutique and a toy gift shop.

city watch

by Rodney Wilson Wes Anderson spawned rumors that he and Devo front man Mark Mothersbaugh will build a theme park in Akron. Leaked plans reveal the park

will be constructed entirely of tweed fabric and damask wallpaper.

A Barberton man used nail clippers and a knife to steal a sapphire ring from an Akron jewelry store. The accused,

who suffers from damaged cuticles, is pleading not guilty.

Canton’s iconic Chicken Manor restaurant is set to close in January. Among the area’s longestoperating restaurants, the eatery will be replaced by the less ostentatious Hog Shack.

Ravenna’s iconic flagpole was returned to the city center after a fourmonth repair job. Area drunks and

delinquents cheered the return of the 150-foot structure, citing a dearth of suitable climbing destinations.

A Canton man was arrested for head butting a hospital x-ray machine. It’s

suspected the man sustained cranial injuries, but doctors are reluctant to pursue diagnostic testing.

all the best

Accountability “When your kids are in elementary and middle school, you can’t blame the extra pounds on baby weight anymore.”

That’s just one of phrases that tumbled out of my mouth during a recent phone call with Terra Milo, the health coach I’ve begun working with this month.

This whole thing started when I was looking for someone to highlight in this month’s The Interview. I had read about Milo’s local cooking demos and bookmarked her website months ago. Knowing that many of us jumpstart their healthy habits in the New Year, I contacted Milo for an interview and was impressed with her thoughtful, practical answers.

With the interview out of the way, I told her a little bit about myself, my lack of energy, the excuses I’ve been making about why I don’t take better care of myself and the fact that I’d rather eat a piece of cold chicken than a bowl of cereal first thing in the morning. She suggested one-on-one health coaching.

I’ve never worked with a health coach before, but Milo says one of the first steps toward a healthy lifestyle is being held accountable. So, here I am, letting you all know that if you see me out-and-about this year, and I’m getting ready to attack a tray of cheese cubes at a party, gently hand me some veggies or a piece of fruit instead. With my family sup-

porting me and 1.3 million annual print and digital readers on my side, I have no excuses anymore.

The other thing Milo and I discussed is that I, like so many moms out there, think self-care is a luxury rather than a necessity. As a new mom, I remember hearing the “Sleep when the baby sleeps” lecture and thinking it made perfect sense. But now that I’m older (and my kids are more self-sufficient), the rules have changed: Going to bed early does not equal “me time.” I need more dedicated “me time” to feel wholly satisfied, and I’m sure you do, too.

I’m starting to realize that I have to take care of not only myself but my “self ” – and if that means returning to the yoga practice I began B.K. (Before Kids), finish that cross-stitch I started as a newlywed or take on a new project that satisfies my creativity, so be it. And that’s a change I have to make — right now — so I can be here for my family for a very long time.

All the best, Abby Cymerman, Managing Editor acymerman@bakermediagroup.com

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the gamut

by Rodney Wilson and Illustration by Kevin Cletzer

I Like to Like / So this is the new year … /

This year, I resolve to like more things. It sounds easy enough, but I think my work’s cut out for me.

I don’t know about you, but this whole New Year thing makes me uneasy. Taking down the old calendar, putting up a new one, resetting the counter on our planet’s fourseason, 365-day trip around the sun.

When I was a young person, I thought my elders overdramatic for such statements as, “And here I just got used to writing [whatever interminable year my tenderfoot self had just completed] on my checks,” but, blame it on the downtick in check writing or my own creep forward through time, but I still haven’t gotten used to writing 2014 on ... whatever a person writes the date in the digital age.

A new year is cause for reflection, a serious look back at the 12 months prior. To

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recount successes, however few, and ponder the areas in which we’d hoped to see more personal growth or overall productivity. I did a lot this past year, far too much for a Gamut to contain, though my list of chores undone, of mile markers unreached, is exponentially longer than my successes.

There was a time I’d dwell on that latter list, to scrawl a bulleted catalog of reasons I’m not as good as I want to be, but I’ve come to realize this tendency is the twosided blessing and curse of our place at the top of the food chain. Humans overreach

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and know when we fall short, but I don’t want failure to be the gas in my car. Not this year.

Instead, I want to look forward to 2014 ... er, 2015. (Sorry, still getting used to that.)

While I try to live unaffected by clichéd formalities, I’ll admit new year’s resolutions have always held a dangerous allure for me.

Whether petty, like the year I resolved to curse more, or self-defeating, such as my recent goal to publish one of these books I’m always writing, I invariably find myself facing a new year with something I want to

accomplish within the boundaries of its fixed parameters. This year, I recognize this tendency in myself and, rather than impotently raging against it, just want to resolve better.

This year, I resolve to like more things. It sounds easy enough, but I think my work’s cut out for me.

The other day, trolling around the Internet in the time-wasting fashion of modern folks (this won’t change in 2015), I happened upon a comment thread discussing a very popular singer — I’ll resist naming the individual for the sake of journalistic integrity, but my appreciation for this particular performer isn’t a fact hidden from this magazine’s readership.

And, boy, do a lot of people not like this person — an implausible number of untrained critics hold very negative opinions about not only her music, but her personage in general.

Opinions are difficult to write about. I can editorialize and tell you mine but can’t discuss yours in a meaningful way — there’s too much personal stuff shaping your perceptions.

But I do wonder about the state of opinions in the mid-2010s. So many cultural influences barrage us every day — peer pressure isn’t constrained to youthful years, having found a welcoming new home on the digital

playground. Browsers hand over new opinions each morning, which social media rampantly disseminates throughout the day and, by the time one’s head hits the pillow at night, his or her perception of a thing in this world has been shaped and codified. You can learn of a song’s existence at daybreak and fully believe yourself to hate it by dusk without ever actually hearing it.

I’m no Luddite; I think technology is pretty cool. But a few years ago, while listening to a new album on loan to me from a friend, I couldn’t decide if I liked the music or not.

Instead of going back to the beginning and listening to the songs again, I clicked a bookmarked link to read a respected music blog’s review of the band. I’d performed this action many times, but on that day, for whatever reason, I realized I lazily adopted strangers’ subjective opinions instead of forming my own. In a supremely rare step toward self-betterment, I deleted the bookmark and each one like it (I’d bookmarked a lot of music blogs).

This year, I want to get better at liking things.

I want to see the movie critics panned and feel free to enjoy it. I want to read an author’s least respected book with an open mind, and I want to sing the song some Internet commenter called “a plague on modern society.”

Subjective voices are loud, and they are everywhere, but I don’t need them. Countless cliques, subcultures and belief systems exist to determine what I shouldn’t like, but I don’t need that. I don’t need to fit in with the cool kids; I need to like stuff.

And though I think liking more stuff will be enough of a challenge, I think I’ll take my resolution one step further: If I like something, I want to be okay with others not liking it too.

An openly angry commenter hates the song I like? That’s cool. Another reader despises the book I love? To each his own. Opinions are important, and any preference come to in an honest way is valid. Besides, I can’t like everything.

Happy 2015, everyone. Let’s shake off the haters and go like some stuff. / Rodney Wilson is a freelance writer who can still be found slumped over his laptop, rewriting a young adult novel and, as always, listening to Taylor Swift.

Comments?

Email them to Managing Editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

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the interview

by Abby Cymerman and photo by Shane Wynn

Terra Milo / Certified Health Coach /

Terra Milo insists she’s not a superhero but we don’t believe her.

This mild-mannered certified health coach grew up in Utah, lived in Oregon, attended Ohio University and then moved to Akron to be closer to the family of her husband, Greg.

She received her training at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City, learning from renowned health experts like Dr. Andrew Weil and Dr. Deepak Chopra, and is certified by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. In addition to doing cooking demos and hosting lunch-and-learn sessions around Northeast Ohio, she works one-on-one with clients to create a personalized “roadmap to health.”

A longtime vegetarian who doesn’t like salads, is not a runner and loves sweets, Milo says she’s not perfect. “I’m just a real person who loves helping people find a healthy lifestyle that is fun,” she says.

Using dietary theories, practical lifestyle management techniques and innovative coaching methods, Milo has not only transformed her own life but the lives of her clients – and we think she’s a valuable person for AkronLife readers to meet in 2015.

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Is The 330 a healthy place to live?

TM: Over the past few years, I’ve seen so many community gardens popping up throughout Akron. That warms my heart because I know that more people will have access to not only fresh, healthy food, but also to each other as we nurture our gardens as a community.

We also have outstanding farmers’ markets. I know some people talk about the prices, but really, you can’t get organic peppers for less than what you pay at the market. And we’re helping our neighbors by supporting small farms. I could go on ... The benefits are endless.

Where could we as Akronites change our habits?

TM: We could change our habits by moving our bodies more and eating less processed food.

Those two things will make a huge difference in everyone’s lives. I wish Downtown Akron was a little more walkable.

There are so many cool sites, and I think easy, walkable connectors to different downtown hotspots would get people out and about.

What do health coaches do?

TM: Health coaches help you connect the dots between what you eat and how you feel.

You’ll know how to stop binges and control cravings, multiply your energy, ease digestive stress, balance your weight and delight in what you eat like never before — without restriction.

Health coaching is really about long-term results, rather than short-term fads. It’s really for those of us who love food. There’s no judgment in my coaching practice. I love cookies and chocolate too!

Does working with a health coach require dieting?

TM: Absolutely not. My clients tend to be a lot more restrictive about their diets than I am. We’re here to enjoy life, not count calories and consult a list of “can and can’t eat” before every meal. Working with a health coach means you’ll end up eating more whole foods that you actually enjoy, and you’ll have confidence to make the right choices around food.

Who is the perfect candidate for a health coach?

TM: Health coaching is right for anyone who wants to have more energy and control of their life or who wants to feel better about their health and food choices. You have to

be curious about how your food affects your body and your mood, and be ready to explore how you can have the best health, and then take action. … Getting healthy isn’t the impossible, restrictive drag as I think it’s often portrayed.

It can actually be simple, fun and inspiring. I talk about making small shifts when I’m coaching people. Make a little shift in your habits, and you’ll feel empowered and energized.

What can Akronites do to maintain our energy during the grey days of winter?

TM: Good question! That last winter was a doozy. The best thing to do is move around: go for a walk at the mall, use your gym membership, or sign up for an exercise class like yoga, barre or zumba. Just move your body.

Eat home-cooked stews and chili, and drink lots of tea. Stay connected to loved ones; we get more energy and joy from Primary Food (relationships, spirituality, career and creativity) than we do from the food we put in our mouths.

I’m not a doctor, but I want to add that most people should take a Vitamin D supplement, especially during the winter. Your doctor can

tell you about your Vitamin D levels and how to supplement them.

If I weren’t a health coach, I’d be …

TM: A digital communications specialist. I love working on websites, email newsletters and social media. People are doing so many creative things in the tech world, and web design is my creative outlet.

In my spare time, you’ll find me ...

TM: In the kitchen, cooking or playing with my five pets. I’ve adopted three cats and two dogs, and they rule my world.

What’s your New Year’s Resolution?

TM: Movement and meditation. Exercise is my biggest challenge. I love yoga, but I don’t go often enough, and I need to add some variety to my exercise routine.

Meditation has so many benefits, from physical health to brain function, so I’m committed to meditating for at least five minutes every day. Meditation can be as simple as paying attention to your breath.

Comments?

Email them to Managing Editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

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subject matter

by Mackenzie Wallace

“At Home in the Dark” / Movie buff Richard Figge shares film reviews in his new book. /

When it comes to watching movies, Richard Figge has certain rituals he likes to follow.

If he has a choice, he likes to see movies at The Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara, Calif., or the Cedar Lee Theatre in Cleveland. He arrives early enough to enjoy the previews. He usually chooses a seat pretty far back that allows a good view of both the screen and the audience, but if the theater has a balcony, he’d rather sit there. And, at the concession stand, he’s a popcorn-no-butter kind of guy.

“A whiff of fresh-popped popcorn, and I am transported to the Saturday matinees of my childhood in St. Paul, Minn.,” he says.

Figge, a retired Gingrich Professor of German at The College of Wooster, professional actor and member of the Screen Actors Guild, recently released “At Home in the Dark,” a collection of more than 160 movie reviews that he has written over the past 20 years. With the luxury of writing a column of movie reviews for the monthly newsletter at his church, St. James Episcopal, Figge watches numerous films and writes about the ones that he finds most interesting, delightful or challenging.

“I seem also to be drawn to the ones that receive mixed reviews, that elicit strong positive or negative opinions,” he says. “And writing the review is my own way of clarifying my own experience of the film.”

Although Figge enjoys all genres of movies, he says he tires quickly of films that are dominated by special effects, where real human emotions and stakes come up short. He loves versatile character actors and the directors Jean Renoir, Martin Scorsese and Wes Anderson.

“In the age of DVDs and streaming, films are currently easy to view, and I wanted to share my enthusiasm for interesting films that are worth a second look or might have gone unnoticed by some on first release,” Figge says. “Readers have written to me that they copy out my reviews and save them as a guide so they can check the films out when they become available on DVD. Why not produce a useful guide?”

In addition to listing the movie’s principal credits (director, screenwriter, actors, cinematographer and editor), Figge’s reviews include some information about the plot to introduce themes and conflicts but they stop short of including spoilers.

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“I don’t write (the movie reviews) by any particular formula but look instead for matters that intrigue me,” he says. “I often draw parallels to other films, directors and traditions where these might be interesting.

“These things, along with some background information, give readers a certain sense of ownership of the film and encourage them to enter into a discussion in which they make their own discoveries.”

Figge suggests that the best way to enjoy “At Home in the Dark” is to take a quick look at his review to see if the film looks interesting, and then make a closer examination once the film has been seen. “I am not thrusting my views on anyone,” he says. “I hope that my ideas may be a stimulus for further enjoyment and reflections.”

As for the title of the book, Figge says it was a long time coming.

“Nothing really clicked until I heard the phrase applied to film projectionists,” he says.

“More important is the ambiguity of the title, since no one is quite sure of the future of film viewing. I am at home in the dark of the theater, but more and more viewing is being done at home via streaming and DVDs. If that becomes the norm, we will lose the collective and often revealing experience of movies in a theater.”

So what are Figge’s criteria for a good movie?

He says a really good film takes him somewhere he hasn’t been before and makes new experiences or ways of looking at the world accessible.

“Great films crystallize and make memorable aspects of our experience as human beings,” he says. “And they provide unforgettable metaphors … Terrible and fateful decisions are forced on us, and we are compelled to act in ways that we would never choose.”

“At Home in the Dark” is published by The Wooster Book Company and can be ordered online at www.woosterbook.com. If you’d like to subscribe to Figge’s free email movie reviews, you can write to him at rfiggefilmreviews@gmail.com. / Writer Mackenzie Wallace is a senior at Kent State University working on her bachelor’s in magazine journalism.

Comments?

Email them to Managing Editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

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around town

by Mackenzie Wallace

“The Small Place of Miracles” / Shop at Akron’s Discovery Shop and support the fight against cancer. / If you love treasure hunting at upscale resale shops, check out the American Cancer Society Discovery Shops.

In addition to the Akron location at 1690 W. Market St., there are six other Discovery Shops in Ohio and more throughout the United States.

“There could be many other places American Cancer Society Discovery Shops are popping up,” says Akron store manager Ann Reicosky.

The Discovery Shops sell high-quality, donated merchandise including clothing for men, women and children, accessories, jewelry, shoes, furniture, antiques, seasonal decorations, art, books, collectibles, DVDs and CDs, household items, china and glassware.

The first store in Ohio opened 21 years ago. Akron’s 1,400-squarefoot store opened in 2002 but it quickly outgrew the space. In 2007, it relocated to its current, 6,000-square-foot space. All of the store’s proceeds go to the American Cancer Society to support its research, education, advocacy and service programs.

“The American Cancer Society Discovery Shop truly is a community center — from the generous donations that come in the back, the customers that come in the front and the volunteers that run the store,” Reicosky says. “Community-supplied, community-staffed and community-supported: It’s all about the people right here.”

Reicosky says last year, the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program in Ohio provided 13,240 trips to take patients to treatment, and almost 28 nights of free or reduced lodging was provided to cancer patients and their families traveling away from home for treatment.

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“I call this store ‘The small place of miracles.’ Great things are always happening in some way or form,” she says. “If a customer comes in and is looking for lamps and we don’t have any, the next day lamps start being donated. We keep a wish book, and if a customer wants to request something, we write it in the book with their name and number and give them a shout-out when it arrives.”

With experience in retail, Reicosky says her introduction to the American Cancer Society and the Akron Discovery Shop was “divinely inspired.” When she first heard about the Discovery Shop’s open position, she was unemployed, and as she learned more about the store through her network of friends, she became confident that she was meant to be there.

“When I came to the store, my biggest fear was recruiting and working with the volunteers. I had never done that before but it’s my favorite thing. I love every one of them. They’re like family,” she says. “I also feel very fortunate to be able to do something I’ve done for years — retail — and actually make money for a cause. I feel like we make a difference doing this every day.”

Dedicated volunteers, including many talented individuals who personally have been touched by cancer, passionately contribute their time, energy and skill to staffing Discovery Shops. Reicosky says as a fully operating retail establishment, the Akron Discovery Shop is always looking for volunteers to serve as sales people, merchandisers, processors who take donations, housekeepers and people to provide marketing assistance.

“We need volunteers with heart. Our customers come here looking for compassion and, many times, an ear,” she says. “Donations coming in have a story, customers buying have a story, and we’re willing to listen. It’s not about the shopping. It’s about the experience and what we’re doing here.”

Individuals can fill out a volunteer application at the store and sign up for a brief interview with the manager.

“Anyone who wants to give the gift of their time should be applauded. Time is very valuable, but it also has to be a good fit for both parties involved,” she says. “If you don’t like what you’re doing, you won’t commit to coming on a regular basis. My volunteers tell me it has to be fun, or they wouldn’t be here.

I assure you it’s a lot of work but we definitely have fun doing it.”

The store has received some interesting donations including brand-new, fashionforward clothes and accessories from other retail stores’ previous seasons, a mahogany century desk with detailed carvings and ivory drawer handles, a box of vintage garnets and sweaters made from beautiful textiles.

“We love being able to sell these special things. Someone once donated an incredible Mary McFadden, full-length, black mink coat that made someone a very happy camper. She is still a customer today,” Reicosky says. “It’s always fun to get the vintage pieces too, like the Givenchy black leather pocketbook or someone’s vintage hat collection.”

The Discovery Shop held its first Holiday Open House this winter on a Sunday, a day the store is normally closed. Due to its success, more event-driven open houses will take place in 2015. The next event will be a tea in February.

The store is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations are accepted Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more info, visit Akron Discovery Shop on Facebook, stop by the store or call 330-867-5043. / Writer Mackenzie Wallace recently graduated from Kent State University with bachelor’s degrees in magazine journalism and fashion merchandising.

Comments?

Email them to Managing Editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

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january 2015 / vol. 13 / issue 1

Akron’s first fraternal organization was started 200 years ago by the Masons in Middlebury (now known as East Akron).

AGENDA the essential social digest

2/13 B EAU COUP The 1980s American rock band from Cleveland will reunite and play hits like “Born & Raised (on Rock & Roll),” “Jane” and “Sweet Rachel.” Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park, 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield.

8 p.m. $25-$45. www.ticketmaster. com

1/22-1/24 T HE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF B LACKS IN D ANCE , P25

T HROUGH 1/29 THE N IGHTLIGHT FEATURES “W HIPLASH”

Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash is brilliantly acted by Miles Teller as an eager jazz drummer at a prestigious New York music academy and J.K. Simmons as the teacher whose method of terrorizing his students is beyond questionable, even when it gets results. “Whiplash” was dubbed “Full Metal Jacket at Juilliard” at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award. The Nightlight, 30 N. High St., Akron. www. nightlightcinema.com

1/17 CUYAHOGA VALLEY SCENIC R AILROAD “ALES ON RAILS ” BEER-TASTING TRAINS

21 and older. Sample five unique beers and enjoy appetizers designed to complement each brew.

Commemorative glass included.

Akron Northside Station, 7 p.m. $49$82. RSVP to www.cvsr.com.

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1/10 C OFFEE WITH THE B IRDS

Join a naturalist for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area. Find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Bring a mug; coffee is provided.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 10 a.m. to noon. Free. 330-865-8065

januar y 2015

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

Through 1/4 Photography by Friends of Relay for Life This event is intended to raise awareness and funds for Massillon’s Relay for Life team. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tues.-Sat., 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m.; closed Mon. www.massillonmuseum.org Through 1/7 “3 Artists 3 Mediums” Works from Beth Lindenberger, José Sacaridiz and David Shankland will be presented at the Margaret Clark Morgan Foundation Gallery, 10 W. Streetsboro St., Hudson. Open Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and during 2nd Friday Art Hops. Free. www.mcmfdn.org/artgallery

Through 1/8 “The Babadook” After a dark and foreboding children’s book called “Mister Babadook” mysteriously appears on Samuel’s bookshelf, Amelia must decide if her son is deranged, or if there is a bogeyman lurking in their darkened halls at night. The Nightlight Theater, 30 N. High St., Akron. 6:45 p.m. (3:45 on 1/4) $6.50$8.50. www.nightlightcinema.com Through 1/31 The Legacy of Ferdinand Brader Travel Pennsylvania and Northeast Ohio’s family farms and businesses through the unique 19th century drawings of folk artist Ferdinand Brader.

Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton.

Tues.-Thurs., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m.; closed Mon. $6-$8; free for members and children 12 and under. www.cantonart. org

Through 1/31 “Crayon Batiks” by Lawrence A. Walker This exhibit by local artist Lawrence A. Walker will feature a new collection of one-of-a-kind, vividly colorful crayon batiks. Over the years, Walker has mastered his particular spin on the process. Hazel Tree Interiors, 143 W. Market St., Akron. Tues.-Fri., 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; closed Sun. and Mon. Free. www.hazeltreeinteriors.com Through 2/16 Ice Skating One of Downtown Akron’s most popular features, Lock 3’s 10,000-square-foot ice rink is the largest seasonal skating venue in Ohio. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron.

Admission is free if you have your own skates. Skate rental is $3. Strap-on skates for toddlers are free when supplies are available. Preschoolers must be accompanied on the ice by an adult in skates. For dates and hours, call 330-375-2877.

1/2-2/20 Jeremy Barnes: This is Not About a Girl Barnes creates works of art pleasing to the eye and seemingly pleasant on the surface, but when thought about, they provoke an eerie, quiet sense of unease.

With special guest artist Janet Snell. Nine Muses Gallery, 584 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton. Free. For hours, visit www.ninemusesart.com.

1/2 and 1/3 Deck the Hall: Christmas Around the World The estate is a virtual wonderland with a beautifully decorated-for-Christmas historic Manor House, and Dazzle, an extraordinary musicallyanimated lightshow with 1 million lights! Playgarden will transform into Gingerbread Land, and the Corbin Conservatory will add holiday enhancements to the tropical Garden Under Glass. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 5-8 p.m. $6$18; free for kids under 5. www.stanhywet.org 1/2 Winter Trackers Day Camp For kids, ages 7 to 10. Enjoy this winter adventure with fun, hands-on experiences. Hone your tracking skills while exploring the park, looking for signs of winter animals. Pack a lunch and dress to be outside for long periods of time. Sand Run Metro Park, Mingo Pavilion, 1501 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. $10. RSVP to 330-865-8065.

1/2 Homeschoolers: Winter Survival Skills For homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10. Join a naturalist to discover how plants, animals and people adapt to survive Ohio’s harsh winter conditions. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 1-3 p.m. Free. RSVP to 330-865-8065.

1/2 Kent Men’s Basketball vs. Texas-Pan American Support the Golden Flashes! Memorial Athletic & Convocation Center, Kent State University, 1025 Risman Drive, Kent. 7 p.m. $12-$75. www. kentstatesports.com

1/3, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24 and 1/31 Lock 3 Pancake Breakfast Breakfast includes pancakes, toppings, sausage, OJ, hot chocolate and coffee. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron. $5. 330-375-2877 1/3, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24 and 1/31 Cabin Fever Reliever These fun Saturdays feature free crafts, a scavenger hunt and free hot chocolate for those who complete the scavenger hunt. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free with zoo admission. www.akronzoo.org 1/3 Snow Art Don’t let the snow get you down!

Come out and learn new, creative ways to brighten your days and enjoy the snowy weather. Dress for an outdoor program. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Road, Akron. 1-2:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 1/3 Kent Women’s Basketball vs. Central Michigan Support the Golden Flashes! Memorial Athletic & Convocation Center, Kent State University, 1025 Risman Drive, Kent. 2 p.m. $10. www. kentstatesports.com 1/3 Talk before the Walk Start off your Artwalk evening with a fun, quick, guided museum tour.

You’ll explore the museum’s collection and special exhibitions. Think of it as your art appetizer! Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. 4 p.m. Free. www. akronartmuseum.org

1/3 The Rubber City Roller Girls A diverse group of women built for hard hits and speed! Fun times and excitement for everyone. John S. Knight Center, 77 E. Mill St., Akron. 5 p.m. Adult tickets, $9$13. Kids’ tickets, $5-$6. Advance tickets available. www.rubbercityrollergirls.com

1/3 UA Men’s Basketball vs. Coppin State Support the Zips! James A. Rhodes Arena, The University of Akron, 373 Carroll St., Akron. 8 p.m. $10-$30. www. gozips.com 1/4 Cardio Hike Join this healthy outdoor exercise by hiking at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops.

Beginners welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Bring drinking water. Springfield Bog Metro Park, 1400 Portage Line Road, Springfield Twp. 1-3 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 1/4 Comeback Kids: Snowshoe Hare Join a naturalist for this series that explores how oncecommon animals disappeared from Ohio and then made great comebacks. Silver Creek Metro Park, Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Road, Norton.

2-3:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 1/6 UA Men’s Basketball vs. Western Michigan Support the Zips! James A. Rhodes Arena, The University of Akron, 373 Carroll St., Akron. 8 p.m. $10-$30. www.gozips.com 1/7 and 1/10 Canton Symphony Orchestra SymphonyLand String Trio Performances A great introduction to the orchestra for children, ages 3 to 6. Cable Recital Hall Cultural Center for the Arts, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. 10-11:30 a.m. $5. www. cantonsymphony.org 1/7 Kinderealm: Weasels For kids 3 to 6 and their adult companions. Learn about weasels and the cool adaptations that help them survive. Program includes a craft and short hike. Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. or 1-2 p.m. Free. RSVP to 330-865-8065.

1/7 Nature Drawing for Adults Join a naturalist-artist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook, pencil and sense of humor. Beginners welcome. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 2-3:30 p.m. Free.

RSVP to 330-865-8065.

1/7 UA Women’s Basketball vs. Bowling Green Cheer on the Zips! James A. Rhodes Arena, The University of Akron, 373 Carroll St., Akron. 7 p.m. $6.50. www.gozips.com 1/7 Kent Men’s Basketball vs. Bowling Green Support the Golden Flashes! Memorial Athletic & Convocation Center, Kent State University, 1025 Risman Drive, Kent. 7 p.m. $12-$75. www. kentstatesports.com 1/7 Solo at Sarah’s Vineyard: Boy=Girl Enjoy the sounds of a local favorite musical guest in the cozy tasting room. Warm up with a glass of wine and enjoy some food. No outside food or beverages allowed.

Sarah’s Vineyard, 1204 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7-10 p.m. No cover charge. www. sarahsvineyardwinery.com

1/8 Show & Tell Me A Story For kids, ages 1 to 3. Join a naturalist for this 30-minute story time for tots. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. Free. RSVP to 330-865-8065.

1/8 Labyrinth Walk with Rebekah Benner Join this labyrinth walk and set your intentions for the New Year. Labyrinth walking is an ancient practice used by many different faiths for spiritual centering, contemplation and prayer. Live music and refreshments. Unitarian Universalist Church of West Akron, 3300 Morewood Road, Fairlawn. 7-9 p.m.

Donations accepted. www.uuakron.org

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1/10-2/28 Children’s Winter Theatre Classes with The Illusion Factory For ages 5-7 or 8 and up.

Improve public speaking skills, build confidence, meet lasting friends and have a blast! Learn to create your own superhero and acquire audition skills. Northwest Family Rec Center, 1730 Shatto Ave., Akron. $70.

RSVP to 330-376-5700.

1/9 First Friday Club Brian Sinchak, president of Lakewood Catholic Academy, will discuss “Stories of Faith in Young Adults. Quaker Station, The University of Akron, 135 S. Broadway, Akron. 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. $15. 330-535-7668 1/9 Cardio Hike Join this healthy outdoor exercise by hiking at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops.

Beginners welcome, but you may want to talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. Bring drinking water. Munroe Falls Metro Park, Lake Area, 521 S. River Road, Munroe Falls. 11:30 a.m. Free.

330-865-8065 1/9 Homeschoolers: Winter Survival Skills For homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14. Join a naturalist to discover how plants, animals and people adapt to survive Ohio’s harsh winter conditions. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 1-3:30 p.m. Free. RSVP to 330-865-8065.

1/12 Kinderealm: Weasels For kids 3 to 6 and their adult companions. Learn about weasels and the cool adaptations that help them survive. Program includes a craft and short hike. Registration begins 1/2.

Goodyear Heights Metro Park Pavilion, 2077 Newton St., Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 330-865-8065

1/10 Coffee with the Birds Join a naturalist for a peaceful morning discussion at the wildlife viewing area. Find out why this area is a favorite of our winter residents. Bring a mug; coffee is provided.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 10 a.m. to noon. Free. 330-865-8065 1/10 Wildlife & Wood Workshop Squirrel Feeder Discover the types of squirrels you can attract to your backyard, then build a squirrel-in-the-jar feeder. One kit per family. Participation required to purchase a $15 kit. Space is limited. Registration begins 1/3. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 1-2:30 p.m. 330-865-8065 1/10 Kent Women’s Basketball vs. Bowling Green Support the Golden Flashes! Memorial Athletic & Convocation Center, Kent State University, 1025 Risman Drive, Kent. 2 p.m. $10. www. kentstatesports.com 1/10 UA Women’s Basketball vs. Eastern Michigan Cheer on the Zips! James A. Rhodes Arena, The University of Akron, 373 Carroll St., Akron. 7 p.m. $6.50. www.gozips.com 1/10 Zander Conducts Masterworks Benjamin Zander shares his passionate music-making in %WPS L T DPODFSUP BOE 4IPTUBLPWJDI T TZNQIPOZ With Jonah Ellsworth. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $25-$55. www.akronsymphony.org

1/9 Hotel California: A Salute to the Eagles With special guest Madison Cummins. This band faithfully reproduces the sound of the Eagles’ studio recordings.

Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $25. www.akroncivic.com 20

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1/11 Winter Family Book Walk Families can enjoy Cherry Lane Trail in a new way. Hike at your own pace with stops to read a story, then come to the campfire area to enjoy a fire, hot chocolate and marshmallows. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Campfire Area, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 1-3 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065

1/12 Weekday Walkers Join a naturalist for a leisurely stroll on Rock Creek Trail with stops along the way to discover nature and history. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Road, Richfield. 10 a.m. to noon. Free. 330-8658065

1/9-2/7 Top Picks A celebration of select recent graduates from the Western Reserve’s top art schools: Abbey Blake from Cleveland Institute of Art, Sean O’Donnell from The University of Akron, Meaghan Reed from Kent state University and Omid Tavikoli from CSU. Free opening reception, Jan. 9, 4:30-8 p.m. Harris Stanton Gallery, 2301 W. Market St., Akron. Free. 330-867-7600 1/9-1/11 Lightroom: Crafting the Fine Photograph with Tim Cooper Join the Cuyahoga Valley Photographic Society for an informative, interactive workshop. Nationally renowned photographer Tim Cooper gives an introduction to Adobe Lightroom so you can take your photography to the next level and leave with a complete understanding of workflow. Hines Hill Conference Center, 1403 W. Hines Hill Road. Starts Fri. at 9 a.m. and ends Sun. at 6 p.m. $395-$410. RSVP to 330-6572909, ext. 100.

1/11 Nature Drawing for Kids For kids, ages 6 to 12. Join a naturalist-artist for this lesson in nature drawing. Paper and pencils provided. Registration begins 1/6. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 3:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

1/10 Chubby Checker Checker is widely known for popularizing the twist dance style, with his 1960 hit cover of Hank Ballard’s R&B hit “The Twist.” 21 and over. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park, 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield. 8 p.m. $39-$115. www. ticketmaster.com

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1/13-2/4 The 61st Annual Scholastic Art Awards Exhibition Features more than 2,000 entries of art and photography from middle and high school students, representing nearly 60 schools in Stark, Summit, Portage, Wayne, Tuscarawas and Medina counties. Kent State Stark, Fine Arts, Campus Center and Main Hall Gallery, 6000 Frank Ave. NW, North Canton, www.stark.kent.edu 1/13, 1/17 and 1/18 “Havana Hop” For kids 4 to 9 and kids at heart. Come meet young Yelia who visits her grandmother in Cuba to add a salsa flavor to her hip-hop style. The audience dances along in this dynamic participation play where one actress creates three generations of lively women. Ohio Theater, 1511 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. $10-$15. www. playhousesquare.org 1/13 UA Men’s Basketball vs. Bowling Green Support the Zips! James A. Rhodes Arena, The University of Akron, 373 Carroll St., Akron. 8 p.m. $10-$30. www.gozips.com 1/14-1/24 “Crazy Man” In this new play commissioned by Weathervane Playhouse, a homeless man camps out in front of a luxury apartment building and begins to impact its residents in strange and wonderful ways as he traces back the incidents that lead to his committing a horrible crime. Adult content. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. $10. For show times, visit www.weathervaneplayhouse.com.

1/14 “Art and Inspiration” Monthly Luncheon Series Journey through 19th century Ohio and Pennsylvania in the meticulous, large-scale drawings of folk artist Ferdinand Brader. Enjoy a private tour of this exhibit, led by M.J. Albacete. Canton Museum of Art, Wilkof Courtyard, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Noon-2 p.m. $15, pre-paid advance reservation. 330-453-7666, ext. 105 1/14 Nature Drawing for Adults Join a naturalistartist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing.

Bring a sketchbook, pencil and sense of humor.

Beginners welcome. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 2-3:30 p.m.

Free. RSVP to 330-865-8065.

1/15 Akron Roundtable: Mark Cohen Cohen is publisher of The Akron Beacon Journal and Ohio.com.

Prior to joining Black Press in November 2013, he was the Chief Operating Officer of Pioneer News Group in Seattle, where he helped oversee print and digital publications in five states from 2009 to 2013. Quaker Station, 135 S. Broadway St., Akron. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. $20. www.akronroundtable.org

1/16-1/18 “Stomp” The eight-member troupe of this incredibly inventive show uses everything from matchboxes, wooden poles and brooms, to garbage cans, Zippo lighters and hubcaps in place of conventional percussion to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. A unique experience for all ages. Connor Palace, 1615 Euclid Ave, Cleveland. $35-$60. For show times, visit www.playhousesquare. org.

1/16 and 1/17 Kinderealm: Weasels For kids 3 to 6 and their adult companions. Learn about weasels and the cool adaptations that help them survive. Program includes a craft and short hike. Registration begins 1/2. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-2 p.m. 330-865-8065

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1/16 Owl Prowl For ages 6 and older. Explore for owls with a naturalist. Patience and silence are essential when prowling for owls. No dogs, please.

Sand Run Metro Park, Treaty Line Area, 995 Treaty Line Road, Akron. 7-8:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 1/16 Lyceum Series: The Iceman Conservancy Fostering fresh perspectives and lasting connections, Cuyahoga Valley Institute’s Lyceum Series presents indepth and engaging content from experts in history, adventure and the natural world. Dr. Lonnie G. Thompson shares his experience traveling the world to research glaciers. Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park, 500 W. Streetsboro Road, Peninsula.

7-8:30 p.m. $6-$8. www.conservancyforcvnp.org 1/16 The Club @ The Civic: “Fine & Mellow: The Music of Billie Holiday” Join this intimate evening of Billie Holiday’s stunning classics, as performed by Akron artist Tracey Thomas and her four-piece jazz band. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $25 or two for $45. www.akroncivic.com

1/17 Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad “Ales on Rails” Beer-Tasting Trains 21 and older. Sample five unique beers and enjoy appetizers designed to complement each brew. Commemorative glass included. Akron Northside Station, 7 p.m. $49-$82.

RSVP to www.cvsr.com.

1/17 Kent Men’s Basketball vs. Ohio University Support the Golden Flashes! Memorial Athletic & Convocation Center, Kent State University, 1025 Risman Drive, Kent. 7 p.m. $12-$75. www. kentstatesports.com 1/17 UA Men’s Basketball vs. Central Michigan Support the Zips! James A. Rhodes Arena, The University of Akron, 373 Carroll St., Akron. 8 p.m. $10-$30. www.gozips.com 1/17 Jazz @ The Civic presents Forecast The native Cleveland contemporary jazz band performs a musical blend of instrumental jazz, funk, rock, reggae and pop. This is a cabaret performance, and seating is limited. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 N. Main St., Akron.

8 p.m. $20 or two for $35. www.akroncivic.com

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That’s what you’ll be saying when you have an oil lamp from Lehman’s.

Beautiful, practical, non-electric and so simple – the double wick grand lamp. Available exclusively from Lehman’s

1/17 and 1/18 “Guys and Dolls” Set in Damon Runyon’s mythical New York City, this oddball romantic comedy soars with the spirit of Broadway as it introduces us to a cast of vivid characters. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. Sat. at 8 p.m.; Sun. at 2 p.m. $37$57. www.ticketmaster.com 1/17 Soup Hike Join a naturalist for a hike while outdoor cooking volunteers prepare soup for everyone to enjoy. Bring a bowl and spoon. Sand Run Metro Park, Shady Hollow Pavilion, 1750 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

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1/17 Winter at the Ledges See how forces in nature created and continue to reshape the ledges in Liberty Park. Liberty Park, Twinsburg Ledges Area, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 330-8658065

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1/18 The Bath United Church of Christ Epiphany Arts Festival One of the best art shows in Akron with more than 200 area artists exhibiting all art forms.

The Bath United Church of Christ, 3980 W. Bath Road, Akron. Noon-3 p.m. Free. www.bathucc.org 1/18 Beginning Birders: Treats for your Yard Join naturalists and expert volunteers for a hands-on workshop to discover which treats are the birds’ favorites! We will help you make a “dessert” to hang in your yard. Peanut butter will be used during this program. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 12:30-2 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065 1/18 Beat Winter Blues and Energize Your Day Beat the blahs by joining Metro Parks staff and Tai Chi instructor, motivational speaker and energy coach Nancy Gardner for this wellness program. You will discover tips, techniques, movements and foods that will help motivate and energize you during the cold weather. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Road, Richfield. 1-3 p.m. Free. 330865-8065

1/18 Dancing With The Stars: Live!

North American Tour This official live performance showcases a cast of the television show’s most popular competitors who will re-create some of the show’s most memorable moments. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park, 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield. 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. $45-$75. www.ticketmaster.com

1/19 Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Activities This annual fair enables the community to mark the King holiday as a “day on” rather than a “day off.” It also serves as an opportunity for community outreach that provides awareness of the university community to children in kindergarten through high school and their families. Biographic and historic information provided, as well as children’s activities, performances and other visual displays. The University of Akron, Student Union Grand Ballroom, 303 Carroll St., Akron. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. 330972-7008 1/20 Tech Night for “Five Guys Named Moe” Hear from the director and designers, then sit in on a technical rehearsal to see how set, lights, sound, costumes and actors come together to get ready for opening night. Cleveland Play House, Allen Theatre, 1407 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

RSVP to insidecph@clevelandplayhouse.com.

1/19 School’s Out Cookout Enjoy the outdoors on your day off from school. Bring your own hot dogs and buns to cook over the campfire, and we’ll provide drinks, condiments and marshmallows. Then, hike with a naturalist to look for chickadees and other winter birds. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Campfire Area, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065

1/20 Jonathan Biss This American pianist is widely regarded for his artistry, musical intelligence and deeply felt interpretations, winning international recognition for his orchestral, recital and chamber music performances and for his award-winning recordings. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. Preconcert lecture, 6:30 p.m.; concert, 7:30 p.m. $25$45. www.ticketmaster.com

1/21 Savvy Women Club Educational Event: “Medicare: What You Don’t Know and What it Could Cost You” Reduced medical benefits are a top concern of retirees. The SWC will explain Medicare in a language you can understand. Join us for lunch as we break down the parts of

Medicare and discuss what those pieces may cost you. Portage Country Club, 240 N. Portage Path, Akron. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free for SWC members; $20 for nonmembers. 330-664-5500 1/21 Alex Bevan Enjoy the sounds of this favorite guest in the cozy tasting room. Warm up with a glass of wine, and enjoy some food. No outside food or beverages allowed. Sarah’s Vineyard, 1204 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7-10 p.m. No cover charge. www.sarahsvineyardwinery.com 1/21 UA Women’s Basketball vs. Ball State Cheer on the Zips! James A. Rhodes Arena, The University of Akron, 373 Carroll St., Akron. 7 p.m. $6.50. www. gozips.com

1/21 Kent Men’s Basketball vs. Toledo Support the Golden Flashes! Memorial Athletic & Convocation Center, Kent State University, 1025 Risman Drive, Kent. 7 p.m. $12-$75. www.kentstatesports.com 1/22-1/24 The International Association of Blacks in Dance Celebrating 27 years of dance, the IABD will host three nights of performances, each night showcasing a different dance troupe. For the first time, Northeast Ohio will have the unique opportunity to experience, on one stage, established, professional historically African-American dance companies from throughout the U.S. Ohio Theater, 1511 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. $25-$50. For show times, visit www.playhousesquare.org.

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Summa Foundation event honors Ann and David Brennan 1

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Summa Health System honored its most generous supporters at the inaugural Summa Society Celebration, May 28 at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Boniface DeRoo Award for Philanthropy, Summa’s highest philanthropic honor, to Ann and David Brennan.

The DeRoo Award is named after Boniface DeRoo, a humble blacksmith who bequeathed the entirety of his modest estate so that everyone could have a place to go for healing.

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His vision and generosity resulted in the founding of Summa Akron City Hospital in 1892.

Also that evening, Thomas J. Strauss, former president and CEO of Summa Health System, recognized individuals and organizations that have given a total of $1 million or more to Summa Health System. Strauss inducted this group into the inaugural Thomas W. Cornell Philanthropic Leadership Society, named in honor of Cornell, an Akron businessman who matched DeRoo’s bequest to help establish Summa Akron City Hospital. januar y 2015

1. Gini Page and Glenda Buchanan, from Northern Ohio Golf Charities 2. Jan Parry and Tom Barrett 3. Tom Strauss, David Brennan, Ann Brennan, Tom Clark and Norman Wells Jr. 4. Beth Brennan, Ann Brennan and Jay Brennan 5. Attendees at Summa Health System’s inaugural Thomas W. Cornell Philanthropic Leadership Society induction ceremony.

Front row: John Petures, Dr. Milton Cooper, Nancy DiGirolamo, Chris Tawney, Judy Miller, Yvonne Hamlin and Heather Milicevic Back row: Robert Cooper, Vince DiGirolamo, David Brennan, Ann Brennan, Thomas Strauss, Norman Wells Jr., Donald Leuchtag Sr., Thomas Clark, Richard Hamlin, Tony Manna and Roger Read 6. Ann Brennan, Thomas Strauss, Thomas Clark and Norman Wells Jr. Photo Credit: Nancy Williams Photography

1/22 and 1/23 Archery for Seniors For beginning and practiced archers, ages 55 and older. Learn the basics and test your marksmanship at our traveling indoor range. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron. 10:30 a.m. to noon and 1-2:30 p.m. Free. RSVP to 330-865-8065 1/22 Weekday Walkers Join a naturalist for a leisurely stroll on Spring Hollow Trail with stops along the way to discover nature and history. Hampton Hills Metro Park Main Entrance, 2925 Akron-Peninsula Road, Akron. 10-11:30 a.m. 330-865-8065 1/22 Yoga in the Park Join a naturalist and a certified yoga instructor from Yoga Lounge and Barre. Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a yoga mat or large towel and drinking water. Energize your body so you can make it through the long Ohio winter.

Registration begins 1/10. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 7-8 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

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1/23-1/25 “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” A glittering night, a magical forest with lovers, actors, fairies and foes. All this and more make for the most dazzling comedy Shakespeare ever wrote.

Magical Theatre Company, 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton. For show times and ticket prices, visit www.magicaltheatre.org.

1/23 Apollo’s Fire: Bach’s Birthday Party, Part II, Family Frolic, A Multi-Generational Music Party Papa Bach had his hands full with a house overflowing with kids, a rebellious teenage daughter and the perilous attraction of coffee down the street.

This concert features AF’s Young Apprentices and veteran AF principal players in a staged performance of the Coffee Cantata. This is a 90-minute program, followed by coffee and conversation with the artists.

First United Methodist Church, 263 E. Mill St., Akron.

8 p.m. $20-$70. 800-314-2535

1/23 The Club @ The Civic: A Tribute to Patsy Cline Starring Logan Wells, this show tells the story of legendary country music performer Patsy Cline, whose songs are as popular today as they were when she sang them herself. This performance is cabaret-style, performed on the stage.

Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $25. www.akroncivic.com

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1/24 and 1/25 Great Lakes “Battle at the Lake” National Cheerleading Championship Nothing is off limits at this wild, crazy fun cheerleading and dance competition where athletes and their spectators will be treated like rock stars! John S. Knight Center, 77 E. Mill St., Akron. 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Free for spectators. www.glccevents.com 1/24 Science Math and Technology Expo Vendors from across the globe will gather for this one-day event to showcase products and services related to science, math, technology and more. North High School, 985 Gorge Blvd., Akron. RSVP to www.10times.com.

1/24 Akron Zoo’s Snow Bowl You don’t even have to know how to bowl to participate in this fun, competitive event. To play the game, each fivemember team predicts its score prior to bowling.

The team closest to its predicted score wins the tournament. Stonehedge, 580 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Register at www.akronzoo. org.

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1/24 Hike & Breakfast: Snowflake Hike Join us for a brisk winter hike and comfort breakfast of oatmeal and more. Participants will contribute to the feast. Registration begins 1/13. Goodyear Heights Metro Park, Pavilion, 2077 Newton St., Akron. 8-10:30 a.m.

Free. 330-865-8065

1/24 Archery for Kids For beginning and practiced archers, ages 9 to 12. Learn the basics and test your marksmanship at the range featuring multiple shooting stations. All equipment and hands-on instruction provided. Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron. 1-2:30 p.m.

Free. RSVP to 330-865-8065.

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1/24 Cardboard Classic Enjoy fun in the snow by recycling old items into new sleds, which will be assembled on-site.

Cardboard and duct tape will be provided, along with marshmallows for roasting. If no snow, the program will be rescheduled in February. Registration begins 1/17.

Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Road, Akron. 1-2:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

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1/24 Snowshoe Hike For kids 10 and older with an adult. Get a brief how-to lesson, followed by a moderate snowshoe hike. If not enough snow, there will still be a hike. Registration begins 1/20. Munroe Falls Metro Park, Tallmadge Meadows Area, 1088 North Ave., Tallmadge. 1-2:30 p.m. Snowshoe rental is $5/person. 330-865-8065

What’s Updated

1/24 Kent Women’s Basketball vs. Western Michigan Support the Golden Flashes! Memorial Athletic & Convocation Center, Kent State University, 1025 Risman Drive, Kent. 2 p.m. $10. www. kentstatesports.com

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1/24 Ohio Collage Society Exhibition The National Collage Society Inc. (NCS Inc.) is an art foundation formed to foster the appreciation and interest in the art medium of collage. The group promotes the advancement of collage as a major art medium and assists in the education of the public through exhibits, workshops, lectures and publications. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 7-9 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org

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1/24 Published and Unpublished Illustrations

by Sean Qualls This exhibition features Brooklynbased illustrator, Sean Qualls, whose whimsical and profound artwork has been featured in numerous childrens’ books that chronicle the African-American experience. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 7-9 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org 1/24 MasterWorks Concert Series 4: East Meets West International pipa virtuoso, Wu Man, brings her talents to the Umstattd stage to perform Zhao Jiping’s Pipa Concerto No. 2. The pipa is a traditional Chinese stringed instrument that dates back to the Qin and Han Dynasties. Umstattd Performing Arts Hall, 2323 17th St. NW, Canton. 8-10:30 p.m. For ticket prices, visit www.cantonsymphony.org.

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1/24 Ballroom with a Twist Tony Dovolani, Anna Trebunskaya, Dmitry Chaplin and Lacey Shwimmer of ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” headline an evening of entertainment for the entire family, highlighted by stunning costumes, magnificent music and breathtaking performances that pushes the boundaries of ballroom dance, infusing it with the energy and intensity of the latest contemporary and “hip-hop” styles. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 8 p.m. $37-$57. www.ticketmaster.com

1/24 The Club @ The Civic: The Strange Familiar Spend an evening with The Strange Familiar as you’ve never heard them before, alongside a string quartet of talented area symphony members. The band will perform songs from their new album, “The Day the Light Went Out,” as well as fan favorites you’ve heard on “Pretty Little Liars,” “The Vampire Diaries” and “America’s Got Talent.” Akron Civic Theatre, 182 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $15. www.akroncivic.com 1/25 Nature Realm’s 50th Birthday The F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm is 50 years old this year. Join us for photos, reminiscing, stories, games, cake and refreshments. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 1-3 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 1/25 Archery for Adults For beginning and practiced archers, age 18 and over. Learn the basics and test your marksmanship at the traveling indoor range.

All equipment and hands-on instruction provided.

Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron. 1-2:30 p.m. and 3-4:30 p.m. Free.

Register at 330-865-8065.

flash

Taste of the NFL

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The Pro Football Hall of Fame hosted its seventh annual Taste of the NFL on Sept. 23 to benefit the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank.

This event featured gourmet cuisine from local restaurants and gave guests the opportunity to meet Hall of Fame Enshrinees while raising money to support local hunger relief efforts. Shy Cellars was voted the grand champions for the second year in a row.

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1. Molly Meeker and Fred Nida 2. Mikey Vitrano and Nic Pappas, of Pav’s Creamery 4

3. “The Dancing Usher” Bob

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Mangaro, Hall of Famer Joe DeLamielleure and William Ivany, of Canton 4. Carol Arbour, of Munroe Falls, and Pro Football Hall of Fame President Dave Baker 5. Bob and Becki Brehmer, of Twinsburg 6. Hall of Fame Dave Robinson with Patty and Mark Gibbs, 5

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7. Bob Lazarow, of Akron, with event host Ken Babby, owner of the Akron RubberDucks 8. Eve Somtrakool, Note Laorattana-Aree and Charlie Somtrakool, from Cilantro Thai & Sushi 9. Colin Taylor and Hall of Famer Jack Youngblood Photos by Bunny Lacey

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13th Annual Sapphire Ball 1

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Local rock ‘n’ roll icon Michael Stanley and his band, the Resonators, headlined the 13th annual Sapphire Ball, Oct. 11, at the John S. Knight Center in downtown Akron. Guests at the elegant black-tie gala also enjoyed an amazing evening of fine cocktails and gourmet dining.

Services focus on treating the patient and the family, not the disease, and are designed to deliver complete care for the whole person, encompassing body, mind and spirit. Summa Health System has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for its palliative care program.

Proceeds from this year’s Sapphire Ball will go toward Summa Health System’s Palliative Care and Hospice Services. This program enhances the comfort and quality of life for patients with a broad range of conditions.

Jeannine and Steve Marks co-chaired the Sapphire Ball, and Paul Testa served as the corporate chair.

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1. Paul and Kathie Testa, Steve and Jeannine Marks, Drs. Skip and Julia Radwany, and Summa Foundation President Phylis Ferrara 2. Members of the Women’s Board of St. Thomas Hospital 3. Joan and Rich Marsh, and Brenda and Tom Clark 4. Madeline and Libert Bozzelli

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WIN PRIZES BY VOTING FOR YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESSES!

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The 12th annual "Best Of Akron" competition is your chance to vote for your local favorites – and to win great prizes! Who do you love – and why? Winners are decided strictly by your votes . and will be announced in the July 2015 issue of Please do NOT nominate national chains (i.e. Starbucks or Macy’s). Local establishments only!

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phone number, city of residence and e-mail address. Only one ballot per phone number and e-mail address will be accepted. t :PV NVTU DPNQMFUF BU MFBTU DBUFHPSJFT

for your ballot to be eligible – and for you to be entered into the drawing to win prizes. t #BMMPUT BSF UIF QSPQFSUZ PG #BLFS .FEJB

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PRIVACY POLICY: We will not sell or distribute the personal information you provide us.

NOTE TO LOCAL BUSINESSES: akronlife welcomes you to encourage your customers to vote for your business.

However, mass distribution of ballots will be considered ballot stuffing and, if verified, the business will be disqualified.

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1/25 TBS Tots Around Town: Tu B’Shevat Tumbling A playgroup-style series of Sunday afternoon gatherings for kids ages 5 and under and their families. Fun, themed activities, snacks, socializing and story time with PJ Library. Little Gym, 8922 Darrow Road, Twinsburg. 2-4 p.m. Free. Register at www.tbshudson.org.

1/25 Metro Parks Book Club Join a naturalist for this month’s lively discussion of “Pleasant Valley” by Louis Bromfield.

Drinks provided; bring a mug. Sand Run Metro Park, Shady Hollow Pavilion, 1750 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron. 2-3:30 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065.

1/30 Animal Tales Children and their adult companions will enjoy a story about our chickadee friends. Afterward, participants will head outside to hand feed the chickadees with a naturalist. Dress for the weather. Registration begins 1/23. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-2 p.m. Free. 330-8658065 1/30 Moonlight Snowshoe Hike For kids, ages 10 and older, with an adult. Take a walk on snowshoes in the moonlight, and then enjoy a campfire and hot chocolate. If there’s not enough snow (at least

five inches), there will still be a hike. Dress for the weather, and wear sturdy winter boots. Registration begins 1/20. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Road, Akron. 7-9 p.m. Snowshoe rental, $5/person. 330-865-8065 1/31 Winter Tree I.D. Discover how to identify trees without their leaves while hiking Chippewa Trail with a naturalist. Silver Creek Metro Park, Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Road, Norton. 10-11:30 a.m.

330-865-8065

1/25 The University of Akron Steel Drum Band and Beach Party Leave the winter blues behind and escape to the rhythms of the Caribbean with a fun beach party in the grand lobby before the show.

Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 2:30 p.m. $5-$10. www.akroncivic.com 1/26 Trio Nova Featuring Sae Shiragami playing violin, Linda Atherton playing cello and Mayumi Kikuchi on the piano. Kent Stark Campus, Main Hall Auditorium, 6000 Frank Ave. NW, North Canton. 7:30 p.m. Free. www.stark.kent.edu 1/27 Kent Men’s Basketball vs. Central Michigan Support the Golden Flashes! Memorial Athletic & Convocation Center, Kent State University, 1025 Risman Drive, Kent. 7 p.m. $12-$75. www. kentstatesports.com 1/27 UA Men’s Basketball vs. Ball State Support the Zips! James A. Rhodes Arena, The University of Akron, 373 Carroll St., Akron. 8 p.m. $10-$30. www. gozips.com

1/30 “Mid Life Vices” The Four Bitchin’ Babes warn that “this ain’t your grandmother’s glee club!” It’s a night of good-natured wit and on-target harmonies that even the Testosterone Set can enjoy. Ohio Theater, 1511 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 8 p.m. $10-$37.50. www.playhousesquare.org

1/28 Connecting Children to the Wonders of Nature Join Marietta Tromp, of the Master Gardeners of Summit County, to discover the joys of connecting children to the wonders of nature. Parents, grandparents and teachers will be inspired to share a gift that will reach the hearts of future generations. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Seneca Deck, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 1/28 Alan Greene & T.C. Odegard Enjoy the sounds of some local musical guests in the cozy tasting room. Warm up with a glass of wine, and enjoy some food. No outside food or beverages allowed.

Sarah’s Vineyard, 1204 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7-10 p.m. No cover charge. www. sarahsvineyardwinery.com 1/29-2/15 “A Raisin in the Sun” Originally produced in 1959, Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun” was the first play written by an African American woman to be produced on Broadway, where it won the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Play. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. Call for show times. $5-$21. www. weathervaneplayhouse.com 1/29 Hike for your Dinner Work up an appetite hiking Old Mill and Rock Creek trails, then return to the pavilion for a hot meal. Participants will contribute to the feast. Registration begins 1/16. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Road, Richfield. 6-8 p.m. 330-865-8065

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Cuyahoga Valley

2015 Heritage

Concert Series

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Music Fills the Air at Happy Days Lodge There are plenty of places to see great music in the Akron area, from Lock 3 to the Civic Theatre. But there’s another player in town that you might not know about — and it’s in the middle of a national park.

Nestled among the lush woods of Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the best-kept secrets of the Northeast Ohio music scene: Happy Days Lodge.

Built in the 1930s, Happy Days Lodge is one of the last and largest buildings in the area constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The building is constructed from the wood of “wormy” chestnut trees killed in the 1920s fungal blight, making it a testament to both the cultural and natural history of the area.

These days, Happy Days Lodge is home to the Heritage Concert Series, which celebrates the cultural legacy of the Cuyahoga Valley and is co-presented by the National Park Service and the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

“Happy Days Lodge is a very unique facility,” says Bob McFarland, who has been attending concerts in the park with his wife for the past five years. “Its history, construction and ambiance always attract us back to it. Park Ranger Karen Kopchak creates a very friendly, relaxed and comfortable atmosphere at each concert.”

“People love the truly diverse array of music the venue brings,” says Steve Hawley, who regularly volunteers at the concerts. “The lodge itself is a rustic, inviting place.

People like the change of pace when they walk into it.

It’s like stepping back in time.”

Happy Days Lodge’s location makes it a hassle-free venue as well as a unique one. There’s no rush hour traffic in the national park. Parking is safe, ample and free. The audience is made up of people who truly love music and respect their fellow concert-goers, leaving you free to sit back, relax and enjoy the music.

And thanks to 32 years of dedicated service from sound engineer RT Mansfield, the sound quality at Happy Days Lodge is unparalleled. Even in the back row, it sounds like the artists are playing just 15 feet away from you.

“Happy Days Lodge provides an up-close and personal experience where attendees are able to meet and greet with the band during intermission, not a likely scenario at a regular venue,” says Allison G., another concert volunteer. “Add this to the unique setting of a national park, and you can’t go wrong!”

In 2015, Happy Days Lodge is welcoming back favorite groups, such as Dala, Mountain Heart and Mississippi Heat — and attracting larger acts like The Duhks.

The Conservancy will also be debuting new food offerings at a few upcoming shows, featuring wholesome snacks like house-baked pretzel bites, antipasto skewers, Cuban sandwiches and refreshing salads.

To see who’s playing this winter and spring, visit the Conservancy’s website at www.conservancyforcvnp.org.

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1/31 Feeding Time For kids, ages 5 and older. Ever wonder what we feed our display animals at the Nature Realm? Feed the animals and learn more about them. Registration begins 1/24. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 1-2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 1/31 The CCC and Virginia Kendall Join Kent State professor Dr. Kenneth Bindas to learn about the construction of the Virginia Kendall Reserve by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Bindas will sign copies of his book after the program. Space is limited. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 1/31 UA Women’s Basketball vs. Kent State Cheer on the Zips! James A. Rhodes Arena, The University of Akron, 373 Carroll St., Akron. 7 p.m. $6.50. www.gozips.com 1/31 Glass Harp This Youngstown rock band, formed in 1968, includes Phil Keaggy, drummer John Sferra and bassist Daniel Pecchio. The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent.

Doors open, 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. $32.50$48.50. www.thekentstage.com

1/31 John Mellencamp This Grammy-winning Rock Hall inductee makes his long-awaited return as part of his 2015 North American “Plain Spoken Tour.” Connor Palace, 1615 Euclid Ave, Cleveland. 7:30 p.m. $42.50-$249. www.playhousesquare. org 1/31 The Club @ The Civic: Clapton Tribute Unplugged Clapton Tribute Unplugged takes you on a historic musical journey with decades of music from the legendary Eric Clapton.

Akron Civic Theatre, 182 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $20 or two for $35. www.akroncivic.com

1/31 Billy Strings and Don Julin This American string band duo plays haunting Appalachian songs, righteous gospel standards and blazing bluegrass instrumentals.

Happy Days Lodge, 500 W. Streetsboro Road, Peninsula. 8 p.m. $5-$17. www.conservancyforcvnp. org 1/31 “The Vagina Monologues” The University of Akron’s 2015 V-Day benefit performance of Eve Ensler’s groundbreaking play is a consciousness-raising event and fundraiser to help end violence against women and to celebrate women, their bodies and their experiences. Proceeds benefit the V-Day Organization and The Rape Crisis Centers of Summit and Medina counties. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 8 p.m. $5-$10. 330972-7570

1/31 The Ragbirds This five-piece, female-led, folk-rock-world fusion band hails from Ann Arbor, Mich.

Musica, 51 E. Market St., Akron. 9 p.m. $12. www.liveatmusica.com

18 th Annual Red & White On Thursday Night Akron’s premier wine and food event A benefit for the Arthritis Foundation, Great Lakes Region, Northeastern Ohio

January 29, 2015 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.

Quaker Station at The University of Akron

After

Coatings Group Before

For more information, contact the Arthritis Foundation at 216.285.2829 or email cdurbin@arthritis.org.

Presented by:

Buy Tickets At: AkronRedandWhite.com Use promo code AKRONLIFE (case sensitive) for $10 off your ticket purchase.

February 2015 2/2 Melissa Harris-Perry A writer, professor, television host and political commentator with a focus on AfricanAmerican politics, Melissa Harris-Perry hosts the Melissa Harris-Perry weekend news and opinion television show on MSNBC. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $6-$10. www. ticketmaster.com

Construction Group Design / Build/ Manage Powder Coatings Group Specialty Group Aerospace & Aircraft Restoration Historic Building Restoration Special Fabrications

Akron One Canal Square Plaza Akron, OH 44308 Phone: 330-670-9900 Fax: 330-670-9993

Copley Plant 1122 Jacoby Road Copley, OH 44321 Phone: 330-670-9900 Fax: 330-670-9993

Pittsburgh 121 Wabash Street Pittsburgh, PA 15220 Phone: 412-444-0353 Fax 412-444-0356

www.thomarios.com 2/7 and 2/8 “Snow Maiden” Magical fairies, playful animals, an elegant Snow Queen and a charming little Snow Maiden come to life. Appealing to all ages, this delightful ballet by The University of Akron Dance Institute features splendidly costumed performers and a beautiful score by Tchaikovsky and Glazunov.

E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. Sat. at 7 p.m.; Sun. at 1 p.m. $10-$20. www.ticketmaster.com 2/7 ZOSO The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Tribute Band In 1995, ZOSO was formed to create the most mesmerizing and accurate portrayal of Led Zeppelin, one of the biggest bands of the 1970s. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $20. www. akroncivic.com

2/10 and 2/11 “Camelot” Recount the time-honored legend of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot and the Knights of the Round Table in an enchanting fable of chivalry, majesty and brotherhood in this four-time Tony Award-winning show. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St, Akron. 7:30 p.m. $37-$57. www.ticketmaster.com.

2/3-2/15 “Pippin” Full of extraordinary acrobatics, wondrous magical feats and soaring songs from the composer of “Wicked,” this show will lift you up and leave you smiling. Connor Palace, 1615 Euclid Ave, Cleveland. $30$100. For show times, visit www. playhousesquare.org.

2/7 The 18th Annual For the Love of Chocolate Festival A family-friendly, sweet event featuring 40 chocolatiers from Northeast Ohio. Taste samples from vendors, participate in the Oreo stacking contest and let the kids play in Candy Land. Proceeds benefit the American Red Cross. Medina Performing Arts Center, 851 Weymouth Road, Medina. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For ticket prices, visit www.redcross.org.

2/13 Beau Coup The 1980s American rock band from Cleveland will reunite and play hits like “Born & Raised (on Rock & Roll),” “Jane” and “Sweet Rachel.”

Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park, 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield. 8 p.m. $25-$45. www.ticketmaster. com

2/15 The Rubber City Roller Girls A diverse group of women built for hard hits and speed! Fun times and excitement for everyone. John S. Knight Center, 77 E. Mill St., Akron. 5 p.m. Adult tickets, $9-$13. Kids’ tickets, $5-$6. Advance tickets available. www. rubbercityrollergirls.com

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education 2015

by Abby Cymerman and photos by Shane Wynn

StarStudents

The area’s best and brightest young scholars Here at , we are so pleased to introduce you to this year’s crop of Star Students from five local private schools.

These students are not only standouts in their individual classrooms; they’re also excellent athletes, performers and role models.

How they fit all these extracurricular activities and achievements into a 24-hourday — and still have time to be teenagers — we’ll never know, but we’re proud to feature them here and can’t wait to see what the future holds for them, within our community and to the world beyond.

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Few high school seniors are as goal-oriented as Kate Friess.

This 17-year-old has life plans, and she’s on the road to achieve them.

“I’m very interested in naturopathic medicine. I believe that to achieve overall wellness, there must be a focus in treating the whole person,” she says. “I’m also a firm believer that healing involves the integration of the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of our lives.”

She plans to get medical and naturopathy degrees so she can combine knowledge from traditional and Western medicine to design integrative and effective treatments for her patients.

Friess is the daughter of Molly and Jim Friess.

Who in your school inspires you to get a good education?

I vividly remember having a conversation with my calculus teacher, Mrs. Korllos, about the importance of education. She mentioned how many of her students strive just to get the “A.” She continued to say that education is not simply maintaining straight As; education is about committing oneself to the learning process to fulfill the desire to attain knowledge. This idea has remained with me ever since our conversation.

What kind of extracurricular activities do you do?

Kate Friess

Senior, St. Vincent-St. Mary High School

I was a member of Girls’ Soccer Team for three years and am involved in National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. Through my school’s STEM Program, I’ve had the opportunity to conduct research at The University of Akron’s Department of Polymer Science. Also, I’m a Peer Minister, school tour guide and 4th-year member in Chinese Club.

Next to the word “well-rounded” in the dictionary, there should be a photo of 18-year-old Trevor J. Levin.

Levin is the co-editor-in-chief of the Reserve Record, Hudson’s longestrunning newspaper. He’s been in four musicals and is rehearsing for his second play. He sings in the school choir, is vice president of the Young Democrats Club and plays junior varsity baseball.

He’s a prefect in his dorm, captain of WRA’s Academic Challenge team and plans to pursue a career in politics, education or journalism.

Levin is the son of James and Jill Levin.

What’s your favorite subject, and why?

Trevor J. Levin

Senior, Western Reserve Academy

Economics. I’ve only been in the class for three months, but it’s already answered so many questions I’ve had about the world, in part due to Mr. Ong, my fantastic, dynamic teacher.

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What one place in the world do you plan to visit, and why?

I’ve always wanted to visit London.

I love British politics, I’m fascinated with cities, and I have a few friends in Britain I’d love to see again.

Which cultural icon do you respect the most, and why?

The more I learn about Martin Luther King Jr., the more I respect and admire him. He transformed the country with not only his words but with his amazing organizational abilities, creativity and persistence. He risked — and ultimately lost — his life by fighting so hard for justice and human dignity.

Who in your school inspires you to get a good education?

My choir director, Ms. Karam, encourages us to do our best in everything but also to keep things in perspective and to remember to prioritize friendship and compassion.

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Life is busy for 14-year-old Zain Stiffler. In addition to earning good grades in school, his calendar is jam-packed with extracurricular activities.

Stiffler studies piano, takes foreign language lessons, plays soccer and tennis, and likes to ski. He recently completed his third-degree black belt at Asian Sun in Hudson. In the summer, he participates in his neighborhood’s swim team.

As a member of People to People, Stiffler has traveled to Western Canada with a student delegation and hopes to visit Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia with the group this summer.

Stiffler is the son of Dr. Saira Ismail and Dr. Kirk Stiffler.

What’s your favorite subject, and why?

Science is very interesting and helps me understand the physical world around me. My teacher, Mr. Brown, is very fun and knowledgeable. Chemistry labs are fun, and we perform exciting experiments.

What do your friendships say about you?

I am a loyal person who is genuinely interested in what others have to say. I also enjoy hanging out with “brainiacs.”

Which cultural icon do you respect the most, and why?

History is filled with influential people, such as Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., Amelia Earhart and Nikola Tesla, who have changed the world for the better in some way. I admire people who are willing to take risks, hoping to raise the condition of those around them or explore new concepts.

Zain Stiffler

What career path do you plan to pursue?

8th grade, Old Trail School

I plan to pursue an engineering degree.

I hope to use my love of science to create or build something useful for future generations.

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Marissa Cerreto 8th grade, Holy Family School

13-year-old Marissa Cerreto is a young woman with a bright future. Having attended Holy Family School since kindergarten, Cerreto is a scholar, athlete and student leader.

What kind of extracurricular activities do you do?

A member of student council for the past three years, Cerreto served as vice president last year and currently as president. She plans to attend St. Vincent-St. Mary High School next year.

What one place in the world do you plan to visit, and why?

“All of the faculty that I have come in contact with throughout my nine years at Holy Family School have inspired me to learn and have pushed me to strive for better grades,” she says.

Which cultural icon do you respect the most, and why?

Cerreto is the daughter of Tom and Jen Cerreto.

What’s your favorite subject, and why?

Math and science. I love the challenge in math, and I enjoy learning the reasons behind why everything is the way it is or (why it) works the way it does through science.

I have been dancing for 10 years and involved in volleyball for the past three years.

Paris, France. I plan to study the French language in high school, and I have always dreamed about visiting Paris.

I admire Malala Yousafzai’s courage and strength to stand up for what she believed in at such a very young age. I too believe that everyone should be able to receive an education.

What career path do you plan to pursue?

I would like to become either a dentist or an orthodontist.

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Being a teenager is tough enough, but also having Tourette syndrome is a challenge that 17-year-old Dominic Falcione tackles every day.

“It would surprise most people because it is not very noticeable, and it does not impede me much in anything,” he says.

Falcione serves as the captain of the soccer team and assistant stage manager of theater productions. He participates in science, art, bowling, engineering and science-fiction movie clubs and collaborates with a fellow student to advertise many school events via large cardboard sculptures.

He is the son of Al and Sandy Falcione.

What’s your favorite subject, and why?

I really enjoy most of my classes. My Calculus class has three students in it, and we’ve had the same teacher for three years now so we all get along great. My AP Physics class is a lot of fun, especially since I’m going into a field of engineering. Lastly, I enjoy every art class and every class taught by Mr. Deal that I’ve ever taken.

What one place in the world do you plan to visit, and why?

I would like to visit the Amazon rainforest because I think it would be really cool, and I’ve always enjoyed learning about all the plant and animal life in that climate.

Who in your school inspires you to get a good education?

One of my best friends, Jarrett, inspires me because he’s always up-to-date on the latest and greatest science technology, and our combined knowledge lets us overcome a vast amount of obstacles.

Dominic Falcione Senior, Lawrence School

Comments? E-mail them to Managing Editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@ bakermediagroup.com.

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education 2014

Quick Q&A Learn more about our local private schools.

What makes the private schools of The 330 special? Each elementary, secondary, high school or university has its own mission, vision and ways of teaching its pupils.

In this section, we invite you to use this information provided by our featured schools to make an educated decision when choosing a school for your child, with your child.

The next step is to check out our Private Schools Comparison Chart and mark your calendar for the schools’ upcoming open houses. Visit the schools with your child to get a deeper look at each institution and chat with school admission directors about the curriculum, teachers, learning environment and the availability of scholarships.

Baldwin Wallace University MISSION STATEMENT

Baldwin Wallace University is an academic community committed to the liberal arts and sciences as the foundation for lifelong learning. The University fulfills this mission through a rigorous academic program that is characterized by excellence in teaching and learning within a challenging, supportive environment that enhances students' intellectual and spiritual growth.

Baldwin Wallace assists students in their preparation to become contributing, compassionate citizens of an increasingly global society and encourages their pursuit of personal and professional excellence.

Why does your school have a goal to increase student study abroad participation?

Baldwin Wallace University has joined with the Institute of International Education (IIE) to double the number of students who gain international experience by the end of the decade. As part of the "Generation Study Abroad" campaign, BW seeks to increase student study abroad participation from 15 percent to 30 percent in five years.

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This ambitious goal aligns with the University's longstanding mission to create "contributing, compassionate citizens of an increasingly global society," as well as the most recent evolution of BW's strategic plan. For more than 30 years BW has supported a robust study abroad program to provide experiences that develop well-rounded, career-ready graduates. Recently, BW adopted an experiential learning requirement for all students and developed a strategic plan that includes an emphasis on international education.

Hiram College MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Hiram College is to foster intellectual excellence and social responsibility, enabling our students to thrive in their chosen careers, flourish in life and face the urgent challenges of the times.

What advantage does your Honors program provide to students?

"Students who study abroad tell us the experience is life- and career-changing," says BW Provost Stephen Stahl. "Graduates with global experience are often more attractive job applicants as well."

The Hiram College Honors program is unlike many others. Entrance is not based on GPA or test scores, but on motivation, ambition and extracurricular involvement.

BW will build on this already strong commitment to international education by training faculty liaisons who will promote study abroad opportunities in each of eight schools, initiating an incentivized internal "challenge" to the schools to double their own study abroad numbers, and encouraging the development of new faculty-led international study programs.

Hiram College Honors students have priority registration privileges and the opportunity to earn an Honors scholarship. Honors students gain a competitive edge at Hiram, starting on day one, as they immediately engage in close interactions with our esteemed faculty and with each other. The mentoring and connections they experience early on help set them up for success not only as an undergraduate, but also in their careers and in graduate school.

Cornerstone Community School MISSION STATEMENT

Knowing Jesus Christ as the foundation of life, Cornerstone Community School is dedicated to educating children in the knowledge and wonder of God's creation. We seek to discover and develop our students' unique gifts so they may be people of service and reconciliation in the world.

What makes your curriculum innovative?

Cornerstone Community School is unique in terms of our curriculum, small class size and parental involvement. We strongly believe that each child is a unique creation of God with special gifts as well as a unique learning style.

Therefore we provide for a variety of learning styles in our classrooms. We believe that it is critical for our students to connect the knowledge they gain with life outside the classroom so that learning is not abstract. Frequent field trips and other experiential education activities help to meet this goal. Our curriculum is from a Biblical World View and has been written to integrate Biblical principles throughout, which allows students to learn that all of God's world is interrelated. Within the study unit, the students will study language arts, math, art, science, Bible, history, music and physical education. At Cornerstone Community School, our vision is to educate children to transform their world for the glory of God.

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Hiram Honors students form a close-knit community through optional Honors housing, which promotes a balanced academic and social life. All Honors freshmen take an interdisciplinary seminar together, giving them the opportunity to interact in the classroom. In this interdisciplinary course, students are exposed to learning across disciplines, opening their eyes to new career possibilities.

As Honors students progress through their studies in their sophomore, junior and senior years, our faculty mentors help them link career and academic interests to internship, research and study abroad opportunities. Students also have the opportunity to network with visiting scholars in the fields of health care, public leadership, literature, science and more.

Immaculate Heart of Mary MISSION STATEMENT

Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish School prepares students to be faith-centered, lifelong learners who contribute positively to society.

What does your school do to create students who are lifelong learners?

The faculty and staff developed and embraces a Core Ideology that lifelong learning is one of the pivotal expectations for all people who walk the halls of our school.

t t t t t t t t

Students first Every student needs a champion Look for the best in every student and celebrate their unique gifts Do what is best for every student Live respect, Live our faith, Value-centered Be lifelong learners Create a safe and engaging learning environment Foster a spirit of support and service.

We model the commitment to professional development, ongoing experiences and professional conversations with teachers that inspire classroom instruction. To create and encourage lifelong learning at Immaculate Heart of Mary, we: t

t t t t t t t

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teach and model Gospel values and encourage students to be disciples for Christ intertwine our faith with the daily curriculum embrace teaching values that students will use for a lifetime engage in ongoing service projects emphasize curriculum and the need for continual fiction and nonfiction reading relish and invite parents and grandparents to be involved with our students teach the importance of goal setting, communication and self-reflection create a school climate that inspires growth in our faith, respect for all, and the idea that inquisitive questioning and problem solving is vital allow real-life opportunities for students, like live news broadcasting, Junior High electives, caring for nursing home residents and attending First Friday Club of Akron.

W e s t e r n

R e s e r v e

A c a d e m y

VISIT CAMPUS Excellence. Integrity. Compassion.

Our students are immersed in a tight-knit community of peers, faculty, advisors, and parents, all of whom are dedicated to their individual needs and success.

See for yourself the WRA difference, we invite you to visit our beautiful, 190-acre campus.

For more information go to wra.net or call the Admission Office at 330.650.9717 to set up a visit today!

Lawrence School MISSION STATEMENT

To teach students who have distinct learning styles, ignite their potential, and inspire academic and social success.

What sets your school apart from other private schools?

In many traditional public and private school classrooms where the majority of learners do well, students with unique learning styles don’t quite fit and often get unfairly labeled as “disabled” or even worse.

Because students with learning differences inherently learn outside-the-box, they are often misunderstood. These students have the ability to learn as well as anyone else; they simply learn differently. When they are educated in an environment that honors their individual learning styles, they succeed - even excel - and go on to experience achievement in schools, colleges and careers.

pkZ'g^m Hudson, OH | Boarding t Day | Grades 9-12

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How does the use of technology in the classroom prepare your students for career success?

DEVELOPING TOMORROW’S LEADERS TODAY

Two-Time Blue Ribbon School Award Recipient Open House ¶ +HPS` OV[ S\UJO WYVNYHT ¶ *VYL 2 J\YYPJ\S\T WS\Z

Jan. 25, 2015 YLSPNPVU MVYLPNU SHUN\HNLZ ¶ )LMVYL HUK HM[LY ZJOVVS JHYL 12:00-2:00 p.m. [LJOUVSVN` JSHZZLZ ZJPLUJL SHI ¶ (\_PSPHY` YLTLKPHS ZLY]PJLZ Registration LUYPJOTLU[ WYVNYHT for 2015-2016 ¶ 4HU` L_[YHJ\YYPJ\SHY WYVNYHTZ Feb. 2-4, 2015 ¶ ! P7HKZ MVY NYHKLZ JS\IZ ZWVY[Z HUK ZLY]PJL 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. P7HK JHY[Z MVY NYHKLZ 2 VWWVY[\UP[PLZ ¶ (SS KH` RPUKLYNHY[LU

ST. HILARY SCHOOL 645 Moorfield Rd., Fairlawn www.st-hilaryschool.org 330-867-8720, ext. 343 Grades K-8 All students welcome Over $150,000 in tuition assistance awarded annually

At Lawrence School, we understand the unique needs - academic, social and emotional - of students with learning differences and attention deficits. Furthermore, our specialized programs and methods are designed to help these students build confidence, advocate for themselves and reach their full potential.

How do you increase your students’ self-confidence and expectation of success?

At Lawrence School, we often say that "differences are not disabilities."

Although many Lawrence students have been diagnosed as having a "learning disability" by a medical professional or psychologist, we have adopted the term "learning difference" as a better descriptor of the ways our students learn best.

Learning disabilities unintentionally implies that a person has a general deficit in learning as a whole. We know that this is not the case.

Rather, students with learning differences are just as intelligent, and can learn just as quickly and effectively as other students - if they are taught in a way that best suits their unique learning styles.

accommodations are made available and, most importantly, when their strengths as learners are defined, affirmed and cultivated. The key is to place those unique learners in an environment — such as Lawrence — that uses creative, yet structured learning techniques, employed by teachers who know how to help bring out the best in each student. In doing so, discouragement is replaced by hope, and students are inspired to achieve academic and social success.

The Lippman School MISSION STATEMENT

Founded in 1965, The Lippman School is celebrating 50 years of excellence in Akron as a co-ed, independent school for children in kindergarten through 8th-grade. With small classes, carefully selected teachers and a fast-paced curriculum, The Lippman School encourages students to flourish in a diverse, vibrant, hands-on, dual language learning environment.

A global perspective is woven throughout academics, art and experiential programming.

With value added character development, international perspective and a robust sense of community, students easily connect with their peer group and gain confidence through a sense of belonging.

Students learn best when their differences are understood and accepted, when appropriate 42

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From digital “Smart Boards” that have replaced traditional blackboards in the classroom to individual laptops, iPads and desktop computers, Lippman School students have access to, and are using, the latest technology in kindergarten through 8th-grade.

For example, Lippman 1st- and 2nd-graders have been learning how to blog and construct computer-controlled Lego creations during frequent field trips to Kent State University’s AT&T “Classroom of the Future”, and 2ndand 3rd-graders used Skype and an online survey application to help them create their own custom coffee blend for a school fundraiser.

Lippman middle school students have been recording audio and video interviews with senior citizens as part of a collaborative digital storytelling project with the Northern Cheyenne Nation in Montana. With this project, two diverse cultures are connecting through modern technology and the ancient art of storytelling.

Lippman students don’t just passively use technology — they’re actually learning how to write code. “Kent State University invited our student ambassadors to present at two regional technology conferences,” says Lippman teacher John Bennett. “They’re already demonstrating the importance of programming skills for future success.”

Old Trail School MISSION STATEMENT

Old Trail School is dedicated to educating boys and girls by developing a strong academic foundation, a respect for themselves and others and a love of learning. Nestled in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the School provides a comprehensive curriculum with a commitment to academic excellence, service learning and global sustainability. In partnership with families, Old Trail School engages and nurtures our diverse community of students as they navigate childhood and early adolescence, to emerge as thoughtful, compassionate and constructive citizens with integrity and confidence.

The School’s four Core Values – Respect, Responsibility, Goodness and Service – are woven into the fabric of an Old Trail School education including: curriculum, extracurricular activities, advisory time, assemblies, special events and communications. Core values instruction begins with our youngest students and is incorporated into the curriculum at all grade levels throughout the school year.

Don’t miss our

FREE

Community Education Series lawrenceschool.org/communityed

Great Minds don’t Think Alike Serving K-12 students with Dyslexia, ADHD, and other language-based learning differences.

Small, highly-structured classes

How do you teach students about environmental preservation through the curriculum?

Old Trail School is a model for school environmental sustainability programs, focusing on five major components: facility, food, operations, recycling and water. Each is continuously evaluated by our administration with a goal of improvement and direct connection to our curriculum. We are striving to reduce our carbon footprint while introducing students to their natural world through hands-on, collaborative science lessons, gardening and habitat restoration.

Our 62-acre campus allows us to focus on location-based education. We take advantage of our unique surroundings by encouraging students, families, faculty and staff to take time to examine and explore the outdoors, using our campus as an environmental learning center.

The School has formed partnerships with different organizations including Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Countryside Conservancy, Hattie Larlham Services for Adults and Children with Developmental Disabilities and Eco Schools. Hattie Larlham manages our organic farm (Hattie’s Gardens) and provides farming instruction and service

Personalized instruction

440.526.0717

www.lawrenceschool.org Broadview Heights | Sagamore Hills

Multi-sensory learning

opportunities for students who have hands-on experiences working on the farm with their staff and their clients.

Our curriculum creates a passion for sustainability in our students that is part of our culture. Students learn about the biology, chemistry, physics and civics of freshwater management and stewardship.

What does your school do to foster “cultural competence” in your students?

Old Trail School weaves cultural awareness and respect into instruction at all grade levels. Students learn about the culture in Spanish-speaking countries as part of their world language instruction. There are also a number of schoolwide initiatives and events focusing on world cultures including the Heritage Potluck Dinner where families share culinary traditions about their country of origin. There are typically more than 100 community members who attend this popular event each year. Lunch entrees feature foods from around the world to commemorate multi-faith holidays. Teachers invite parents from other cultures to talk about their traditions and bring foods, photos, traditions, songs and folktales to share with children.

Assistive Technology

Intermediate School students learn about world religions and cultures and Skype with people in other countries. Fourth-graders collect items for the International Institute of Akron as part of a service learning project. The 5th-grade social studies curriculum centers focus on world geography, religion and culture, culminating with the annual International Fair.

Sixth-graders collaborate on in-depth studies of ancient cultures, including religions. Seventhgraders discuss the nine markers of diversity: race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, mental ability, physical ability, religion, age, gender and sexual orientation. Students are divided into smaller groups to create documentaries about a specific diversity marker.

St. Hilary School MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to keep Christ at the center of all that we do. In partnership with our parents and parish community, we will inspire our students, through innovative and challenging academic experiences, to be leaders capable of making a positive change in the world.

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How do your teachers encourage leadership skills among students?

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True to its mission, St. Hilary School seeks to empower students by providing them with the tools, skills and confidence they need to become the next generation of wholly competent leaders. All students are challenged to be independent, critical thinkers and to expand upon and apply classroom lessons outside the school setting. Age-appropriate academic and leadership skills are instilled in students beginning in kindergarten, through use of methodologies that enable students to actively participate in and even help lead lessons. To launch students who are prepared for high school and beyond, an innovative 1:1 iPad program, Socratic seminars and project-based learning allow 6th-, 7th- and 8th-grade students to have a greater, more interactive role in their learning.

Opportunities abound for students to hone the attributes that will make them leaders.

Students may serve as classroom helpers, teachers’ assistants, buddies to younger schoolmates, peer mediators, Student Council members and more. Additionally, students participate weekly at school Masses, sharpening public speaking, performance and service skills. The school’s foreign language program fosters global awareness by providing exposure to Chinese, French and Spanish language and culture over nine years. Finally, every student performs meaningful, hands-on service in the community each year.

St. Sebastian Parish School MISSION STATEMENT

St. Sebastian School is dedicated to Christ, and committed to excellence in education.

We honor the Catholic traditions of the past, work to develop our talents today and prepare for Christian service in the future.

How important is technology in your school?

St. Sebastian Parish School continues to place technology as a priority for the school. Our students have the latest technology at their fingertips.

Students have daily access to iPads and laptops to assist in their learning in every subject, and our faculty is committed to professional development where they learn the latest curriculum trends in technology. Our math program utilizes a web-based learning system called Think Through Math. It is designed to deepen the understanding of critical math skills, and each lesson is tailored to meet the individual student’s needs. We have SMARTboards in every classroom, a state-of-the-art Science Lab and a brand new Technology Learning Lab that will be complete in August 2015. This new lab will give our school a much-needed upgrade of hardware and software. The lab will get new wiring, a new ceiling and new floors, as well as 44

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upgraded seating, tables and lighting. A new glass door and glass windows will be installed to connect the Technology Learning Lab to the School Library, which will open the space for more students to use it. Work on this wonderful project will be finished before the new school year.

Spring Garden Waldorf School MISSION STATEMENT

We are committed to educating each child so that he or she will contribute to the future of the world with clear and creative thinking, compassion, moral strength and courage. Spring Garden Waldorf School is part of the long-standing Waldorf tradition, a worldwide movement putting Rudolf Steiner’s educational philosophy into practice. This method works because it addresses the whole child – cognitive, social and creative – and meets the needs of each individual through a challenging and multi-sensory environment.

What makes the Waldorf curriculum different from that of other private schools?

Learning comes alive for children ages 3 years to 8th-grade through a creative, experiential and deeply collaborative approach to learning.

Equal importance is placed on academic learning, social/emotional intelligence and creative thinking. The teacher, who moves through the grades with the child from 1st- through 8thgrade, must connect with the child, respect their intrinsic nature and inspire them to reach their full potential through personalized learning methods. The “right thing is taught at the right time” during a child’s development to make the experience and lesson meaningful.

The early childhood education focuses on developing creativity, self-regulation, emotional and physical growth, and self-help skills. Traditional academics are brought alive for children beginning in Grade One using engaging and experiential lessons. A three-day rhythm — which includes a story/lecture on the first day, collaborative recall the second day, and creative work with the material on the third day — allows the children a deeper understanding of concepts. Subject integration is essential and includes academics, foreign languages, art, choral and instrumental music, physical education, handwork, gardening and woodworking. Students learn through example and personal experience to use creative thinking, moral strength, compassion and courage in their engagement in an everchanging world.

Join us at our

OPEN HOUSE -

Tour Through The Grades January 14 or February 11 9:00 am

first@hiram Inspiring. Innovative. Intelligent.

LEARN FROM THE BEST AT HIRAM COLLEGE, YOUR

SUCCESS IS OUR FIRST PRIORITY.

YOU CAN BE FIRST AT HIRAM. 1791 S. Jacoby Road ' Copley, Ohio 44321 Phone: 330.666.0574 Email: admissions@sgws.org

www.sgws.org

WWW.HIRAM.EDU

blog.sgws.org

Western Reserve Academy MISSION STATEMENT

A Western Reserve Academy education offers a transformational experience, where students strive for excellence, live with integrity and act with compassion.

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What does your school do to encourage academic excellence?

Western Reserve Academy graduates think critically, act responsibly, and communicate articulately and persuasively. WRA offers a transformational learning experience, in which students pursue far-reaching academic and personal goals. WRA students test and exceed their boundaries while leading fulfilling, purposeful lives.

The academic program at WRA offers an exceptional college preparatory education, giving its students a strong foundation in the arts, humanities, natural sciences and social sciences.

Drawing on a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum, WRA’s program gives its students the academic experience and tools they need to succeed in the classroom, and beyond, while seeking to foster in them intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of learning. The faculty at WRA employs a variety of teaching styles, helping students to recognize their strengths and overcome their weaknesses. By the end of their

23(1 +286( 6XQGD\ -DQXDU\ 3UHVFKRRO ² *UDGH D P S P <RX DQG \RXU IDPLO\ DUH LQYLWHG WR WRXU WKH VFKRRO YLVLW FODVVURRPV WDON ZLWK WHDFKHUV DQG PRUH 67 6(%$67,$1 3$5,6+ 6&+22/ 2))(56 # Technology consisting of iPads, laptops and SMART Boards # Dedicated Computer Lab and three mobile computer labs # Voice amplification system in every classroom # State-of-the- art Science Lab # Auxiliary tutoring and classroom aids # After Care Program

# Our School Garden, an outdoor classroom for our students # Daily Hot Lunch Program # Extracurricular programs such as Power of the Pen, Science Olympiad, Student Council, Student Ambassadors, School Band, Drama Club, CYO Sports, Altar Servers, Community Service Projects, Youth Ministry and many more

1900 %:)29) %/632 3,-3 ;;; 787)&%78-%2 36+

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The Numbers You Need to Know!

School Name Archbishop Hoban High School (9th-12th grade)

Teacher Class to Student Size Ratio

Graduation Rate

Tuition

Open House Dates

24

1:13

98%

$9,650

Contact school for details

14

1:9

100%

$16,660

February 11 & 21, March 7, 9:45-11:30 a.m.++

15–25

1:25

100%

$3,650 – $5,115

Jan. 25, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

20-21

1:15

98%

$5,600-$7,600

February 19

9

1:9

~~

$19,200 – $19,950

Jan. 25, 3-5 p.m.; Mar. 4, 9-11 a.m.; May 6, 9-11 a.m.; June 23, 6-8 p.m.

11

1:11

~~

$22,000 – $23,550

Jan. 29, 6-8 p.m.; Mar. 5, 6-8 p.m.; June 25, 6-8 p.m.

12

1:9

100%

$9,000

Contact school for details

18

1:9

100%

$3,400-$18,500

15

1:10

100%

$9,950

January 11, 12–2 pm April 26, 12–2 pm

23

1:23

100%

$3,825 – $6,000*

Jan 25, 12-2 p.m.

22

1:22

100%

$3,520 – $5,550

January 25, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

25

1:15

100%

$9,500

April 21, 6:30-8 p.m.

12

1:6

100%

$3,024 – $7,560*

Begins Jan 11, 1-3 p.m.

18

1:9

100%

$3,024 – $7,560*

20–25

1:18

100%

$7,665

Walsh Jesuit High School

21.2

1:14

100%

$10,600

April 12

Western Reserve Acadamy

12

1:7

100%

$33,900 + boarding = $49,700

April 13, 1 p.m.

Canton Country Day School (PreK-8th grade)

Holy Family School (PreK-8th grade)

Lake Center Christian School (PreK-12th grade)

Lawrence School (K-6th Grade)

Lawrence School (7th-12th Grade)

The Lippman School (K-8th grade)

Old Trail School (Toddler-8th grade)

Our Lady of the Elms (PreK-12th grade)

St. Hilary School (K-8th grade)

St. Sebastian Parish School (K-8th grade)

St. Vincent - St. Mary High School (9th-12th grade) Spring Garden Waldorf School (3-year olds)

Spring Garden Waldorf School (Preschool / Kindergarten)

Spring Garden Waldorf School (Grades 1–8)

January 11, February 4, March 25, April 26, May 12

call school for additional dates

call school for additional dates

Begins Jan 11, 1-3 p.m. call school for additional dates

Begins Jan 11, 1-3 p.m. call school for additional dates

* Fees can vary depending on student’s grade, parishioner / non-parishioner, number of children from the same family attending the school. ~~ Lawrence School exclusively serves students with learning differences and attention deficit disorders.

That said, 85 percent of its students directly matriculate to a two- or four-year college/university. ++ For PreK-1st grade

46

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At many institutions, more than half of their students take five or six or more years to earn a bachelor’s degree. At BW, you’ll finish in four and get started on your life…and reduce the cost of your education, too. www.bw.edu/guarantee.

Berea, Ohio 44017 440-826-2222 & www.bw.edu

Baldwin Wallace University does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, age, disability, national origin, gender or sexual orientation in the administration of any policies or programs.

senior year, WRA students are able to engage in intellectual debate with their peers; analyze and synthesize data to support an argument or thesis; use language to express themselves with lucidity and conviction; and pursue independent research, using both primary and secondary sources.

How do you create students who make a difference in their community?

At Western Reserve Academy academic excellence and tradition thrives in a tight-knit college preparatory school with a global perspective. Everyone is welcomed and encouraged to be their true, unique selves: uninhibited to learn, grow, try, engage and make a difference, with a support system that is unwavering, challenging and inspires students to be their best.

The WRA difference can be seen in every graduate; the skills, conviction, organization and determination that a Western Reserve Academy student achieves while on this campus is something not encountered everywhere. WRA graduates will attest that their high school experience was far more transformational and influential in their lives than anything else.

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50

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2015

&REATIVE %RIDAL 6ERVICES $ 'IVISION OF &REATIVE 3RESENTATIONS 'ISPLAYS

3RESENTS

( -VYTHS (MMHPY )YPKHS :OV^ ∙ Sunday, February 22, 2015 ∙ Emidio’s Expo Center 48 East Bath Road Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio ∙12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. Fashion Show : 2:30 P.M. ∙ Tuxedos By : Mayatux, Sponsor Hair Fashions By : The Green Door Spa, Sponsor ∙ Admission is FREE ∙ Prizes include a $500.00 bridal gown certificate and several gift cards from Exhibitors ∙ Drawings will be held at the conclusion of the show ∙ Pre-register by calling 330-780-3158 or emailing pranddesign@aol.com

Tuxedo by: Mayatux

Sponsors: A.J.F. Photography Audio Extremes Entertainment Dietz Florist Dillard’s (Summit Mall) Drobny Studios Ivan’s Catering

Just Perfect Video Brittney Nichole Designs The Overlook Special Moments Catering Thomas Limousine Tiffany Bakery The West Point Market

Exhibitors: Celestial Strings Custom-Cake Creations Emidio’s Susan Sawyer Jordan, Chervenic Keller Williams Trinity Lutheran Church (Kent)

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Canter Reasonable Party Rental Zoey’s Cakes * New Exhibitors are signing daily

Plan Your Wedding Day with Ivan's Catering You did it! The commitment has been made, the ring is on your finger, now comes the fun part: planning the big day.

Your first step is to call Ivan Lefkowitz, founder and owner of Ivan’s Catering. Lefkowitz has been planning weddings, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and other events locally for more than 30 years.

“Today’s wedding options are limited only by the couple’s imagination and budget," Lefkowitz says. While most firsttime brides in The 330 opt for indoor, formal settings, he says the sky's the limit.

Lefkowitz has all the resources you need to put together the perfect event, from disc jockeys to table settings, linens, invitations, centerpieces and flowers. As he likes to say, “One call does it all.” And, he's a master at planning and preparing a custom menu for your special day.

Lefkowitz works with a number of local halls, with seating for up to 350 guests. Spectacular outdoor venues are available within Summit Metro Parks and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. These green sites can be kept casual or transformed into a black-tie affair.

For a more intimate indoor/outdoor setting, you can reserve a private room on the lake at Lefkowitz's new location in Bath at Embassy Parkway. With seating for up to 100 guests, this beautiful, intimate location is perfect for smaller weddings, rehearsals, showers and more.

Ivan’s Catering 3925 Embassy Parkway, Suite 120B, Akron 330-836-3553 www.ivansdiner.com

Photos courtesy Jennifer M. Photography

54

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HERE WE GROW AGAIN!

te room a v i r p g erin Now off the lake! n rental o00 Inside or Outside

Check out Ivan’s other venues with available seating up to 350 people.

weddings

g for 1

Seatin

anniversary parties baby showers birthday parties bridal showers corporate meetings family parties holiday parties reunions

+ ó -

Rental Hours Mon.-Fri after 5:00 p.m.

Sat. & Sun. - All day Catering Hours 24/7 - 365 days a year!

Restaurant Hours Mon.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Call Ivan or Jen for more information p: 330.836.3553 f: 330.836.3554 www.ivansdiner.com 3925 Embassy Parkway, Suite 120B Akron, OH 44333

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55

financial planning

by Paula Chesser

Three Not-So-Common New Year’s Resolutions / Mapping out your financial plan /

I love the words, “Happy New Year.” They echo a sense of renewal and starting fresh.

And, chances are, you’ve already plotted out your New Year’s resolutions vowing to do things better or differently than last year. For a good number of people, this may include making better and moreinformed financial decisions.

I’d like to challenge you this year to take your financial resolutions to the next level and go beyond the norm. Let’s face it, financial decisionmaking includes a lot more than building the typical budget (spend less, save more) and paying off debt. It’s about creating a solid plan for your future and making smart decisions now that will positively impact your future later. And perhaps most importantly, it’s about honing your own financial confidence and being content with your decision-making skills.

So if you’re willing to accept this challenge, let’s talk some more about Your Financial Life. Navigating your financial life can be a challenging journey, but it doesn’t have to be. As a financial advisor, the best advice I can give you is to simply be proactive – and yes, this requires actually finding the time to create a well thought-out plan. Trust me, carving this time out now will save you more time, money and stress in the future. It is true that we can’t predict the future, but you can protect yourself by being as prepared as possible for the unexpected and what you want out of life.

So how do you begin? I believe there are three essential components to mapping out your financial plan: Define Your Purpose, Design Your Future, and Embrace The Process.

Paula R. Chesser

What will I experience working with Paula?

Slow and Steady Wins the Race Even one untimely significant loss in a portfolio can throw a well-designed plan off track and take years to mend.

Our team will help you develop a well-blended portfolio and choose investments that will offer the right balance between risk and reward. We’ll assist you in navigating through all market cycles, enhancing your ability to generate the steady, consistent returns you want and need.

Learn more about how our team can benefit you at paulachesser.com Home of the Savvy Women Club @paula_rwbaird t Connect with me on LinkedIn ©2014 Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated. Member SIPC. 58

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Paula R. Chesser, CSA® Vice President Senior Investment Consultant Robert W. Baird & Co. 3875 Embassy Parkway, Suite 300 Akron, OH 44333 330-664-5500 . 877-792-7868 pchesser@rwbaird.com paulachesser.com

Resolution 1 – Define Your Purpose

Invest in your dreams.

Most people I know are driven by a purpose that goes beyond their immediate needs and concerns. It’s vital to take the time to really discover your life and family vision. It’s about who we are and what we want to accomplish in life that motivates and inspires us on a daily basis. By defining your purpose you will be able to better articulate your goals and objectives for this year, the next five years and for the rest of your life.

Resolution 2 – Design Your Future Based upon a more purposeful understanding of who you are, you’re able to develop a clear vision of investment solutions that are best suited for you and your unique situation. It is important to seek those investments that intertwine and complement your purpose and financial goals. This helps you to “stick with” the plan and not let emotions take over which can be detrimental to your overall investment strategy.

Meghan MacDonald, Agent

Registered Representative Bus: 330-929-2500

Ask me about State Farm Mutual Funds®.

Making the right investment choices today may help you reach your dreams for tomorrow.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there®.

CALL ME TODAY.

Resolution 3 – Embrace The Process Embrace a process that encourages open and meaningful conversations. The conversations should proactively address your important financial issues on a regular basis. As life unfolds, many unforeseen issues can arise – for example: the loss of a loved one, a job change or even a sudden financial windfall.

By embracing a process, you will stay engaged and aware of your financial situation, allowing you to be prepared for the unexpected, make thoughtful decisions for your future and feel more confident that no stone has been left unturned.

Before investing, consider the funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. Contact State Farm VP Management Corp (1-800-447-4930) for a prospectus or summary prospectus containing this and other information. Read it carefully. AP2012/05/0538. Securities and insurance products are not FDIC insured, are 1101418.2 not guarenteed by State Farm Bank and are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal.

We build relationships, then portfolios.

The best investment strategies are based on what matters to you. We take the time to find out.

It’s a new year, with a fresh start, and it’s your money … your future. So why not get organized now and take control of your financial life. You have already spearheaded many other aspects of your life from buying a new car, purchasing a home, business ownership, educating yourself about your children’s school system and so on. So why wouldn’t you want to be involved with the most important part of your life that affects everything you do?

Do yourself a favor, think a little differently about your financial resolutions this year.

Develop a plan that you can feel good about.

And if there’s one bit of advice you take from this article, let it be this: Get involved! You’ll be thankful you did. / Paula R. Chesser is the founder of the Savvy Women Club, Vice President and Senior Investment Consultant at Robert W. Baird & Co, Member SIPC. Learn more at paulachesser. com.

Jess W. Hurst II CFP® Certified Financial Planner, Co-Founder

Thomas M. Presper CFP® Certified Financial Planner, Partner

520 s main st # 2552 akron, oh 44311 millennialgroup.us 330.374.1616 Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

BBB Promotes Trust and Integrity Through Free Resources The Greater Akron marketplace is supported by companies of all shapes and sizes. Many of our large corporations help drive the world economy while our smaller businesses provide dependable service to their customers and communities. Both serve as engines for driving growth in the local economy. Perhaps it’s not surprising then that many years ago business leaders in our area were among the first to recognize the need for an organization to monitor – and expose – fraudulent operators and advertising abuses; one that would work diligently to promote the highest ethical relationship between businesses and consumers. With more than 2,150 area BBB Accredited Businesses representing a variety of industries, professions, and company sizes, the Better Business Bureau is a nonprofit organization that promotes ethical relationships between businesses and consumers through voluntary self-regulation.

Akron’s BBB roots trace back to 1920 when local business leaders banded together to promote truth in advertising. BBB of Akron (which serves not only Summit but also 60

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Portage, Medina, Wayne, Ashland, and Richland Counties) was the eighth BBB founded in the U.S. due to the tremendous growth Akron experienced when the rubber factories came to town. BBB’s founders wanted to address ”human rascality in its most ingenious forms.” Nearly a century later, BBB is still supported by civic-minded business people.

®

BBB continues to advance marketplace trust with a variety of programs and services for both businesses and consumers. BBB collects and reports information about businesses to help you make informed decisions before you buy. Over 70,000 local BBB Business Reviews are read each month on their website at bbb.org/akron.

Look for the BBB seal. More and more people are buying online while other consumers are researching information on the Internet to make purchasing decisions. The BBB Accreditation Seal, both online and off, promotes trust and confidence and is backed by the standards and credibility of the BBB. BBB januar y 2015

Accreditation remains the most reliable way for consumers to identify trustworthy businesses. It means that the business has undergone a detailed review process and committed to abide by a set of ethical standards for marketplace conduct. If you don’t know who to call, BBB can also provide a list of Accredited Businesses that will meet your needs.

BBB e-Quote saves you time and money.

This easy to use feature allows you to request quotes from several BBB Accredited Businesses at one time. Simply state what service you are looking for, select who you would like to send the request to, and how you would like to be contacted. BBB will handle sending your request to each business who will contact you directly with a quote.

BBB can help when a problem arises. The vast majority of businesses are companies that do good work, provide quality service, and stand behind both their products and service. But, even good businesses sometimes get complaints from their customers. When a consumer files a complaint with BBB, their team works with the consumer and the business to resolve the problem. BBB Dispute Resolution service is faster and less adversarial for both parties than alternatives such as the court system.

Share your experiences with their New Customer Review feature! BBB Customer Reviews allow customers to post positive, negative, or neutral reviews about companies with which they have done business. Reviews are vetted by BBB team members before they are published online and reviewers, upon request, must be able to provide substantiation of the marketplace interaction.

Visit bbb.org/akron or call (330)253-4590 for more information.

S U P P O RT E D BY B B B AC C R E D I T E D B U S I N E S S E S Goodyear Auto Service Centers – Your Tire and Service Experts

OIL CHANGE SPECIALS Conventional Oil C

1979

$

Up to 5 quarts

MaxLife Synthetic Blend

SynPower Full Synthetic

3479 $5479

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Up to 5 quarts

Up to 5 quarts

Includes a FREE 4 Tire Rotation

Includes a FREE 4 Tire Rotation

Offer expires 2/15/15. Must present coupon to get this offer.

Most vehicles. Up to 5 quarts of Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic oil plus a four tire rotation. Up to 5 quarts of conventional oil for standard oil change. Canister/cartridge filter and diesel oil extra.

Filter disposal charges may apply. Additional charge for shop supplies, up to 7% or $25 maximum, may be added. Redeem at participating Goodyear Auto Service Centers only. See store for complete details. Cash value 1/50¢.

Visit our Experts at one of these Company Owned Locations: Chapel Hill

Green

Stow/Kent

(330) 633-7000

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Cleveland Heights

Jackson Township

Summit Mall

(216) 382-7680

(330) 966-1274

(330) 867-2300

Cuyahoga Falls

Mansfield

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(330) 923-0656

(419) 747-4125

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Trust Goodyear, Your Source For Total Car Care.™

Schedule online: GoodyearAutoService.com S i m p l i c i t y, i n t h e h a r d e s t o f t i m e s .

Everyone knows.

I look best in blue.

The smart thing about pre-planning your funeral is that you know it won’t fall on your loved ones to handle it. And, you get to decide what you’ll be wearing.

Because grieving is no time for guessing.

A Tradition of Dignity and Respect Since 1875

www.billowfuneralhomes.com 330.867.4141 Fairlawn s Cuyahoga Falls

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Private Banking

|

Investment Management

Choose a Team That’s Dedicated to Your Success Choose a strong, stable team. One with smart, experienced players.

Our team of investment and banking advisors takes the time to understand your unique needs and coordinates services and potential solutions that can help you realize your dreams. As a member of The Private Client Group you receive priority service and unparalleled expertise in financial planning, investments and insurance from U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc. and traditional banking, including customized credit and deposit products, from U.S. Bank.

To help reach your personal financial goals, put our dedicated team of local professionals on your side.

NOT FDIC INSURED

MAY LOSE VALUE

NOT GUARANTEED BY THE BANK

|

Personal Trust

|

Insurance Services

Beau Sloan, AWMA® Vice President Accredited Wealth Management Advisor Financial Advisor U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc. 330-865-4342 beau.sloan@usbank.com

|

Financial Planning

Steve Kindel Assistant Vice President Private Banking Relationship Manager U.S. Bank 330-865-4339 steve.kindel@usbank.com

Nick Nicholis Vice President Financial Advisor U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc. 330-865-4340 Nick.Nicholis@usbank.com Traci A Oliver Financial Advisor U.S. Bancorp Investments Inc. 330-622-7297 traci.oliver@usbank.com

NOT A DEPOSIT

2820 West Market St., Ste. 200 Fairlawn, Ohio 44333

NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

For U.S. Bank: Deposit products offered by U.S. Bank, National Association, Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender. U.S. Bank is not responsible for and does not guarantee the products, services or performance of its affiliates.

For U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc.: Investment products and services are offered through U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc. member FINRA and SIPC, an investment adviser and brokerage subsidiary of U.S. Bancorp and affiliate of U.S. Bank. Insurance products, including annuities, are available through U.S. Bancorp Insurance Services, LLC, U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc., in Montana U.S. Bancorp Insurance Services of Montana, Inc., and in Wyoming U.S. Bancorp Insurance & Investments, Inc. All are licensed insurance agencies and subsidiaries of U.S. Bancorp and affiliates of U.S. Bank. Insurance and annuity policies are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies and may not be available in all states. California Insurance License #OE24641. 0113296 MMWR-28586

good eats B Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner A Alcohol available T Takeout available V Valet parking $ average entrees less than $6 $$ average entrees between $6-$10 $$$ average entrees between $11-$16 $$$$ average entrees are $17 or higher

restaurants

Information subject to change.

Please call ahead to verify location, hours and events.

/ notable food & drink / Go to akronlife.com to view more area restaurants & events.

Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices.

250 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-376-0600 $ B, L, D, T Aladdin’s Eatery Outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-535-0110; First and Main streets (Hudson) 330-656-0560; 3895 Medina Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-665-3102 $$$ L, D, A, T Al’s Corner Restaurant Old-world comfort food served cafeteria style. Cabbage rolls and sausage made locally are a favorite. Serving lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 151 Second St. NW (Barberton) 330-475-7978 $$ L, T Bar145 This Gastropub features bar fare and an extensive menu of burgers made with Niman Ranch beef. 100 E. Erie St. (Kent) 330-968-6201 $$ L, D, A, T Barley House Hot and cold deli sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, soups and more. 222 S. Main St. (Akron) 330-374-0925 $$ L, D, A, T Basil Asian Bistro Menu features Thai, Chinese and Korean dishes, as well as sushi and Vietnamese specialties. Closed Mon. 585 Market Ave. N. (Canton) 330-452-3888; 4195 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-9156893 $$$ L, D, A, T Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Fairlawn Hilton. 3180 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-5577 $$$$ L, D, A, T Beau’s on the River Stunning views of the falls with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary décor. Fusion/eclectic cuisine, lunch buffet and Sunday brunch. Sheraton Suites Akron/Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-920-7530 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood. 137 Court Ave. SW (Canton: Downtown) 330-453-8424 $$$$ L, D, A, T Bianca’s Italian Ristorante & Lounge Traditional Italian, juicy steaks and fresh seafood. 4284 Beverly Hills Dr. (Brunswick) 330-225-0927 $$$ L, D, A, T Big Eye Japanese Cuisine and Sushi Bar Menu offers a wide variety of sushi as well as salads, soups, appetizers, cooked entrees and vegan

options to suit everyone at your table. Closed Sun. 2965 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-836-4433 $$$ L, D, A, T The Bistro at Gervasi Vineyard Situated on a 55-acre estate in a renovated historic barn that overlooks a beautiful lake. Serving rustic Italian fare using only fresh and seasonal ingredients. Closed Mon. Open for lunch Sat. and Sun. 1700 55th St. NE (Canton) 330-497-1000 $$$ L, D, A Bistro on Main House-made desserts, hand-cut steaks and fresh pasta. Closed Sun. 1313 W. Main St. (Kent) 330-673-9900 $$$ L, D, A, T Blue Canyon Creative American cuisine in six nature-inspired dining environments. Sunday brunch buffet. 8960 Wilcox Dr. (Twinsburg) 330-486-2583 $$$$ L, D, A, T Blue Door Café and Bakery Sandwiches, quiche, soup, crepes and omelets. Open Wed.-Sun., 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner served Thurs.-Sat. from 6-9 p.m. 1970 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-926-9774 $$ B, L, T Bricco Open since Sept. 2003, this restaurant is known for its eclectic seasonal menu, wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. Open Sun. for dinner only.

1 W. Exchange St. (Akron) 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Bricco in Kent Menu is modeled after the original Bricco in downtown Akron. À la carte brunch on Sun. 210 S. Depeyster St. (Kent) 330-677-1335 $$$ L, D, A, T Brubaker’s Specialty sandwiches, wraps, pizzas, appetizers and a full bar. Bottomless soup and salad special. 4005 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-6668021; 5823 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-650-9401; 3939 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-8803; 1922 Buchholzer Blvd. (Chapel Hill) 330-630-2237; 357 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-7160; 4141 Bridgewater Pkwy. (Stow) 330-475-1525 $$$ L, D, A, T The Burntwood Tavern Owned by the same couple that runs the other Burntwood locations in Rocky River, Brecksville, Chagrin Falls and Solon, this restaurant’s menu features steaks, sliders, hand-cut fries, smoked, planked, and wood-grilled food. 2291 Riverfront Pkwy. (Cuyahoga Falls) www. burntwoodtavern.com $$$ 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) 330835-2203 $$$ B, 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 Cellar 59 Wine Bar & Wine Shop The menu in this renovated 19th century farmhouse features small plates and desserts, as well as bottles of wine and craft beer. Closed Sun. and Mon. 3984

Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-688-2684 $$$ L, D, A, T Chicken Manor Restaurant Menu includes pasta, seafood, steaks and chops. Kids’ and seniors’ menu. Closed Mon. 8043 Cleveland Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-499-2159 $$ L, D, T Chowder House Café Salads, soups, sandwiches and clam chowder. Bring your own wine and beer ($5 corkage fee). Open Sun. for brunch only.

2028 Chestnut Blvd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-794-7102 $$$ L, D, T No credit cards Cilantro Upscale Thai and Japanese, extensive menu, fresh ingredients, hand-selected sushi and no MSG. Eclectic atmosphere. 326 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-434-2876 $$$ L, D, A, T Craft Beer 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) 234-571-1409 $$$ D, A, T, V Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 57 E. Market St. (Akron) 330-253-1234 $$ L, D, A, T, V The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard A modern industrial building that houses a state-ofthe-art winery facility, wine bar and eatery. Perfect for a fun lunch, casual dinner or late snack. Closed Sun. Opens 11 a.m., Mon.-Sat. 1700 55th St. NE (Canton) 330-497-1000 $$ L, D, A D’Agneses Tomato Grill Wide array of entrée choices. Sunday brunch. Catering available. 106 First St. (Hudson) 330-342-3771 $$$$ L, D, A, T D’Agneses at White Pond Crossing Northern and Southern Italian cuisine made inhouse with fresh ingredients. Sunday brunch only.

566 White Pond Dr. (Akron) 234-678-3612 $$$$ L, D, A, T Dave’s Tip Top Pleasant atmosphere with homestyle menu. Perfect for family dining. 3428 Darrow Rd. (Stow) 330-688-3171 $$ B, 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 $$$$ D, A, T, V Delanie’s Neighborhood Grille Comfort food, sporty atmosphere and full bar. 67 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-630-2888 $$$ L, D, A, T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, authentic 1950s-style décor. All steaks are handcut, and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No credit cards Dontino’s Restaurant Home-style Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T w w w. akronlife.com

Downtown 140 Executive Chef Richard E. Bennett IV calls his food style “minimalist new American.” He uses as few ingredients as possible to make an impact and keep clean flavors on the menu at this fine-dining establishment. 140 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-655-2940 $$$$ L, D, A Edgar’s Serves a variety of entrées, such as chargrilled grouper. Homemade soups, salads and starters. 530 Nome Ave. at Good Park Golf Course (Akron) 330869-3000 $$$ D, A, T The Eye Opener Diner-style menu features jams and jellies from Crooked River Herb Farm. Upscale décor includes photos of historic Akron. 1688 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-867-1114 $$ B, L, D, T Firehouse Grill & Pub Watch sports and enjoy steaks and buffalo wings. 1677 E. Market St. (Akron: East) 330-733-6279; 2437 Canton Rd. (Akron) 330-699-3616; 4809 S. Prospect St. (Rootstown) 330-325-0706; 76 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-6349967 $$ L, D, A 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 $$ L, D, A, T Franklin Square Deli Quality sandwich shop with an auto-racing theme. 108 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-673-2942 $$ B, L, D, T The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building. Fantastic desserts. 201 Park Centre Dr. (Wadsworth) 330-334-3663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Game Grill + Bar The menu of the new streetlevel restaurant at Akron’s Canal Park includes several local classics, including sauerkraut balls and Whitey’s chili. Steve Smith, formerly with One Red Door in Hudson and Ken Stewart’s in Akron, is executive chef.

Saturday and Sunday brunch. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St. (Akron) B, L, D, A, T, V Hattie’s Café & Gifts Training and vocational site for people with disabilities. Features coffee, homemade pastries, ice cream, soups, salads and sandwiches. 520 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-535-1779 $ B, L, D, T Henry Wahner’s Restaurant An old favorite across from KSU. Complete German menu. Germanstyle bar with beers served in ice-cold steins. 1609 E. Main St. (Kent) 330-678-4055 $$$$ D, A, T No credit cards Hibachi Japan Steak House Japanese Hibachi-style cooking, great steak and sushi. 2251 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-3333 $$$ L, D, A, T Hudson’s Restaurant Neighborhood restaurant and bar serving fresh, chef-driven dishes.

Family-friendly atmosphere. 80 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-650-1955; 3900 Medina Rd. (Akron: West) 330666-7777 $$ B, L, D, A, T

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uncorked

by Rick Rodger

Easy-To-Drink Reds 19 Crimes and Juxtapōz Red blends have become very popular in today’s wine shops because they are easy to drink. Red blend wine can be a mixture of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah or any other red wine. When a winemaker combines these wines, he or she makes a new and more unique style of wine to enjoy. Here are a couple of popular red blends you can enjoy and drink.

19 Crimes, from Bailey’s of Glenrowan - Victoria, Australia In 1788, the people of London were tired of criminals creating havoc upon the good people of the city. The jails were constantly filling up with these felons so the townspeople came up with a solution: Punishment

by Transportation. England had acquired a new continent two oceans away, and to rid themselves of felons, they wrote into law 19 crimes. If you were convicted of any of these new laws, you were sent on a torturous oneway voyage to Australia, an unknown and unforgiving land.

The 19 Crimes wine label features a mug shot of John Boyle O’Reilly, one of the felons. You can read about the different crimes on the corks of the bottles, including bigamy, cutting or burning clothes, stealing fish from a river or pond and -- of all things -- impersonating an Egyptian.

When you look at a glass of his big, bold wine, winemaker Paul Dahlenburg says, “You see its deep garnet-red color. The grapes used to make 19 Crimes are Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Pinot Noir. The wine’s aromas are of licorice, and the taste starts out as bright strawberry and sweet cherry jam. This wine is velvety and lush, an easy drink and very smooth, very well bal-

anced.” 19 Crimes wine retails for $10.99 per bottle.

Juxtapōz, from California’s North Coast This is another red blend that I find very interesting. The wine is a complex blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel with more than 76 percent of the grapes coming from the Napa Valley. The other 24 percent comes from Sonoma, Lake and Mendocino counties.

Comments?

Email them to Managing Editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

Winemaker John Killebrew describes Juxtapōz as “varying in characteristics and styles of different varietals and growing regions to add layers of dimension and complexity.” He also calls this wine “the ultimate showcase of what can happen when great individual components work together to create something entirely new and unexpected.”

Juxtapōz wine retails for $19.99 per bottle.

Look for these wines at Acme Fresh Markets, Buehler’s Fresh Foods, West Point Market, Papa Joe’s, Mustard Seed, Regency Wine Shop, Fisher’s Markets, Giant Eagle, Heinen’s and other fine retailers.

Wine Wisdom The longer the growing season – the time it takes for grapes to reach full maturity – the more complex

LDAT

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akronlife

/ Rick Rodger is a manager at Heidelberg Distributing Company.

The Juxtapōz label is an original piece of artwork by Barcelona native Gabriel Moreno.

He uses a computer and stylus to juxtapose fine lines and vibrant color to create art.

Moreno created two views of one woman and then interlaced them to reveal the many layers of her personality, just as the complex wine in the bottle offers depth and texture.

Wise Guys Lounge & Grill

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the resulting wines will be. That’s why wines from warm-weather climates, such as California, are more flavorful and complex than wines from, say, North Dakota.

Luigi’s Restaurant /'$7 $Q $NURQ LFRQ 2SHQ ODWH 6HUYHV VXSHUE ,WDOLDQ FXLVLQH VDODGV DQG DZDUG ZLQQLQJ SL]]D 9RWHG %HVW 3L]]D DQG %HVW ,WDOLDQ 5HVWDXUDQW E\ DNURQOLIH UHDGHUV 3DUW\ WUD\V DQG VKHHW SDQ SL]]DV DYDLODEOH ZLWK KRXU QRWLFH 105 N. Main St. (Akr www.luigisrestaurant.com

januar y 2014

Hyde Park Grille New Yorkstyle upscale steakhouse. 4073 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330670-6303 $$$$ D, A, T, V Ivan’s Diner Menu includes sandwiches, salads and soups.

Open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Lunch served after 10 a.m. Catering available 24/7.

3925 Embassy Parkway, Suite 120B (Akron) 330-836-3553 $$ B, L, T Ken Stewart’s Grille Widely recognized as one of Akron’s finest. Upscale, eclectic cuisine. Emphasis on steak and seafood. 1970 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-867-2555 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V LagerHeads BBQ Smokehouse and Brewing Co. Try the BBQ ribs, smoked wings and beer cheese soup, made with Barnburner lager. For dessert, taste the fruit crisp made with grains used to brew their signature beers. 2832 Abbeyville Rd. (Medina) 330725-1947 $$$ 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) 330-677-7000 $$$ L, D, A, T The Lockview Traditional American favorites. Fresh menu with spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T 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 akronlife readers.

Party trays and sheet-pan pizzas available with 24-hour notice. 105 N. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-2999 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards The Main Street Grill A unique concept in in-store dining. The pancake special starts your day off right. 175 Great Oaks Trail in Buehler’s Foods (Wadsworth) 330-3363588 $$ B, L, D, T Maize Valley Winery Sample wine by bottle or glass, as well as craft beer. Taste 100+ types of cheeses. Appetizers and sandwiches. Full dinner menu on Sat. evenings. 6193 Edison St. NE (Hartville) 330-877-8344 $$ L, D, A Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s Best Red Sauce.

Known for endless ice cream options. 780 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-2531511 $$ L, D Menches Brothers Restaurant Inventors of

the hamburger and ice cream cone. In Akron since 1901. 3700 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-8962288 $$ B, L, D, A, T Mustard Seed Market Café Located on mezzanine overlooking natural foods market. Menu reflects same strict standards as the market, with naturally raised meats, free-range poultry and foods free from artificial flavors, colorings and preservatives. Full bar, juice bar and espresso. Live music on weekends. Sunday brunch. 3885 W. Market St. (Montrose) 330-666-7333 $$$ L, D, T New York 2 Chicago Pizzeria Menu inspired by the famous thin crust pizza of New York and the deep-dish pizza of Chicago. Sauce and dough made fresh daily. Salads and wings. Closed Sun. 4320-1 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-6922 $$ L, D, T 91 Wood Fired Oven Upscale casual, West Coast atmosphere. Pizza and pasta are specialties. Patio dining. 1983 Easton St. NW in Washington Square Plaza (North Canton) 330-498-9191; 5570 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-497-9111 $$$ D, A, T Nuevo Modern Mexican and Tequila Bar Owned by Zack and Lisa Hirt, this restaurant serves fresh Mexican cuisine in the downtown Gothic Building.

Try a tequila flight. Gluten-free menu also available. 54 E. Mill St. (Akron: Downtown) 330762-8000 $$$$ L, D, A, T The Office Metropolitan bistro and lounge with eclectic ambiance and timeless decor.

778 N. Main St. (Akron) 330-376-9550; 1846 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-376-9550 $$$ L, D, A, T, V (Cuyahoga Falls location only) One Eleven Bistro House manager Meghan Pender and executive chef Anthony Scolaro own this new eatery which features starters, soups and salads, sandwiches, pasta and entrees, as well as an extensive wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Weekend brunch available.

Closed Mon. 2736 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-952-1122 $$$$ D, A, T One Red Door Decadent menu featuring gourmet pizzas, share plates such as baconwrapped roasted dates, and burgers. Closed Sun. 49 Village Way (Hudson) 330-342-3667 $$$$ L, D, A On Tap Relaxed atmosphere, great gyros and Greek food.

3263 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-922-0464; 2905 Medina w w w. akronlife.com

65

untapped

Heavy Seas CrossBones Session IPA

by Aaron Fowler $9.99 per six-pack While most Northeast Ohioans may not favor a certain Baltimore football team, that shouldn’t stop them from sipping one of the many thirst-quenching brews from Maryland’s own brewery, Heavy Seas.

This month brings the release of the brewery’s first year-round addition in more than six years: CrossBones session IPA. After opening Maryland’s first brewpub in 1998, Hugh Sisson would later embark on a far more ambitious endeavor six years later — founding his own brewery, Clipper City Brewing Company. In 2003, the company formed a brand for higher-gravity beers appropriately named Heavy Seas, and by 2010 the brewery moved all its products under the Heavy Seas banner.

Heavy Seas continues to grow each year, and its beers can now be found in 18 states.

The brewery is projecting sales of 60,000 barrels for 2015 thanks to an expansion project last year that now allows Heavy Seas to increase potential brewing capacity up to 175,000 barrels.

Until now, six Heavy Seas brews could be found yearround. Among them were Loose Cannon, a 7.5 percent American IPA; Small Craft Warning, a high-octane imperial pilsner; Cutlass, the brewery’s easy-drinking amber lager; and Peg Leg, a robust imperial stout. This month its

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akronlife

seventh allyear offering arrives in the form of CrossBones, a hoppy-yetsmooth session IPA. Floral and citrus hop flavors graze your palate while supplying the malt backbone many have grown to love from the beers of Heavy Seas.

Coming in at a surprising 4.5 percent alcohol per volume, CrossBones is both incredibly quaffable and satisfying to your taste buds. The beer offers the same flavors and aromas found in Loose Cannon but in a far more sessionable package.

Look for CrossBones around town at Giant Eagle, Acme and Buehler’s locations, as well as finer craft beer stops like West Point Market, Fishers Foods, World Market, Mustard Seed, Lizardville and 101 Bottles. / Writer Aaron Fowler is a sales representative at Cavalier Distributing.

Comments?

Email them to Managing Editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

januar y 2014

Rd. (Medina) 330-725-1972; 4396 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-5359; 562 Portage Lakes Dr. (Akron) 330644-1664; 2736 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330-725-1972 $$ L, D, A, T Pad Thai Elegant restaurant, extensive menu of traditional Thai dishes. 3545 Brookwall Dr. (Fairlawn) 330-668-9981; 5657 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-6509998 $$$ L, D, A, T Pammie’s Get your fill of soul food, ribs, chicken and fish. 1364 Copley Rd. (Akron) 330-475-0406; 401 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (North Hill) 330-926-9191 $$ L, D, T Papa Joe’s Classy atmosphere, extensive wine list, fine Italian fare, seafood and steaks. 1561 AkronPeninsula Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-923-7999 $$$ 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 Piscazzi’s 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.

Hours: Tues.,Wed.,Thurs. 3:30 p.m. - 12 a.m., Fri. 3:30 p.m. - 1:30 a.m., Sat. Noon - 1:30 a.m., Sun. Noon - 9 p.m. Lunch served on weekends. 1824 Merriman Rd. (Akron: Merriman Valley) $$$ L, D, A, T Prime/93 Appetizers, specials, hand-cut and aged steaks, chops and fresh seafood. Chef-driven restaurant. Entertainment on weekends. 4315 Manchester Rd. (Akron: South) 330-644-2239 $$$$ L, D, A, T Pub Bricco The menu features gourmet hamburgers, appetizers, salads and drinks served in a pub atmosphere. 1841 Merriman Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-869-0035 $$ L, D, A, T Pufferbelly Ltd. Located in historic Kent railroad depot. 152 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330-673-1771 $$$ L, D, A, T The Rail High-quality Ohio beef used for burgers.

Top with specialty condiments like truffle butter or sunflower-basil pesto. Veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, milkshakes, and local and craft beers. 3265 W. Market St. in Summit Mall (Akron) 330-864-7245; 4347 Belden Village Mall (Canton) 330-497-7550 $$ L, D, A, T Ray’s Place Great burgers, hearty dinners and the area’s largest selection of foreign and domestic beer in the bottle and on draft. 135 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330673-2253; 25 Ghent Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-835-2233 $$ L, D, A, T Rusty Nail Casual atmosphere serving quality steak, seafood and chicken. 7291 State Rte. 43 (Kent) 330673-2297 $$$ D, A, T Saffron Patch Fine Indian cuisine including tandoori chicken, ginger-seasoned yellow lentils and garlic naan. 1224 Weathervane Lane (Akron) 330-8367777 $$$ L, D, A, T Sammie’s Bar and Grill Dave DeLapa’s restaurant menu features burgers, sandwiches, comfort food and appetizers. 498 South Ave. (Tallmadge) 234678-8334 $$ L, D, A, T Sarah’s Vineyard Sample high-quality wines, appetizers and desserts in the tasting room, on the deck or in the butterfly garden. Open Wed.-Sun. 1204 W. Steels Corners Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-8057 $$ L, D, A Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition. Drive-in burgers, fast fare. 2781 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Rd. (Green) 330-896-9350; 3296 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-721-8561 $ L, D, T The Sound Garden Café Live music, spirits and burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches. 2156 E.

Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 330-858-3951 $$ L, D, A, T Southern Gardens Restaurant & Tea Room Enjoy quiche, soups, sandwiches and salads, as well as Southern-style and authentic Southeast Asian cuisine. Over 50 loose leaf teas are brewed by the pot right at your table and are available for purchase to take home. Children’s menu available.

Closed Mon. 497 Portage Lakes Dr. (Akron) 330-6448363 $$ L, D, T Spennato’s Italian Ristorante Seafood, chicken, pasta and pizza, as well as attentive service and a casual dining atmosphere. 10446 Northfield Rd. (Northfield) 330-468-8688 $$$ L, D, A, T Stew Pot Kitchen Serves soups, stews, slowcooked meals, beer-flavored brats and more. Menu changes weekly. Specials offer unique flavors and pairings. Closed weekends. 23 S. Main St. (Akron) 330376-7839 $ L, D, T Swensons Drive In Voted Best Burger in akronlife’s Best of the City. Signature burger is the Galley Boy. 658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-8515; 40 S. Hawkins Ave. (Akron: West) 330864-8416; 4466 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-678-7775; 40 Brookmont Rd. (Montrose) 330-665-1858; 5815 Wales Ave. (Jackson Twp.) 330-833-5454; 1558 N. Main St. (North Canton) 330-499-9494 $ L, D, T Tangier Banquet and Events Center Occasionally featuring live entertainment from around the country. Elaborate décor. Quality steaks and seafood. 532 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330376-7171, 800-826-4437 $$$$ D, A, T The Tasting Room at Hoppin’ Frog Brewery This spot offers a dozen beers on tap and more than 24 bottles, including imports, and nightly events. Gastropub seasonal menu available. Open Tues.-Sat. 1680 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 234-535-3764 $$$ D, A Thano’s Family Restaurant Burgers, chops, chicken, wraps, seafood and pasta. Breakfast served all day, daily specials, Friday fish fry. 50-seat party room.

Open 7 days. 71 5th St. (Barberton) 330-861-1300 $$ B, L, D, A, T 3 Palms Pizzeria & Bakery Gourmet Neapolitan pizzas baked in an authentic Italian-built wood-burning oven, plus other Italian specialties. 60 Village Way (Hudson) 330-342-4545 $$$ L, D, T Timber Lodge Steaks are hand-selected from the finest USDA Prime and Choice aged beef. Seafood is flown in daily to assure the peak of flavor and freshness. Prime Rib is slow roasted rotisserie-style and hand-carved to your taste. Open Mon.-Thurs.

4 -10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 4-11 p.m. , Sun. 1-9 p.m. (brunch until 2 p.m.) and kids’ menu. 2809 Pearl Rd., Rte. 42 (Medina) 330-725-6288 $$$ D, A, T Tomaso’s Italian Villa Family-owned and operated for over 50 years. Features classic Italian cuisine. Pasta dinners, pizza, fortunes (calzones), salads, desserts, beer and wine. Kids’ menu. 3271 Barber Rd. (Norton) 330-745-6063 $$ L, D, A, T Totally Cooked Lunch Dock Chef Dante D’Avello prepares lunch at his newest location.

Guests can dine inside or enjoy live music on the covered patio. Check out the 18-foot chuckwagon on BBQ Fridays. Open Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 975 E. Tallmadge Ave. (Akron) $$ L, T Totally Cooked To-Go Market Comfort foods, soups, made-to-order sandwiches and salads, and desserts. Menu changes weekly. Cuyahoga Falls open Mon.-Sat. Akron open weekdays for breakfast and lunch. 2730 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-9239964; 388 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-2941120 $$ B, L, D, T Twiisted Sushi and traditional Japanese food, with gourmet burgers and steaks, salads, appetizers, desserts and a full bar. Closed Mon. 985 Boardman Alley (Medina) 330-661-0600 $$$ D, A, T

small bite

by Abby Cymerman

Park Street Pizza Finding gluten-free pizza in Amish Country On a recent family road trip, we discovered (thanks to my Find Me Gluten Free app!)

Park Street Pizza at 215 Dover Road in Sugarcreek.

When we walked in after the typical lunch hour on a Sunday, the small restaurant was packed with guests, waiting to dine-in or carry-out their pizzas. We also saw that the restaurant is expanding its dining area.

(When dining on the road, these are both excellent signs that you’ve made a good choice.)

Owners Rocky and Courtney Shanower – natives of Sugarcreek – use fresh, locallygrown and –raised ingredients in their restaurant and list their community vendors on their website. They also use American-made packaging that is fully compostable.

Park Street’s garlic bread is created with housemade glutenfree crust that is rolled thin and slathered with fresh garlic, herbs and a special cheese blend, accompanied by freshly made

Twisted Meltz Nestled in Acorn Alley, this restaurant serves gourmet grilled cheese, salads, soups and ice cream. 164B E. Main St. (Kent) 330968-4104 L, D, T The Twisted Olive Italian American Kitchen Casual classic Italian-American fare prepared in wood-fire ovens and on grills. Indoor and outdoor seating. 5430 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330497-1000 $$$ L, D, A, T Urban Eats - A Pop Art Café Open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 51 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-310-7135 $ B, L, A, V Valley Café Owned by a five-star gourmet chef.

Features friendly service, dishes made from scratch and famous cabbage soup. 1212 Weathervane Lane (Merriman Valley) 330-865-0101 $ B, L, T Varsity Bar & Grill Beer-battered shrimp, chipotle BBQ ribs, Italian trio and twisted BLTs are menu standouts. DJ on Thurs.; live bands Fri. and Sat. Imported and domestic beer; 11 on draft. 271 S. Main St., Suite A (Akron) 330-376-3663 $$ L, D, A, T

tomato sauce for dipping. My 7-year-old son, who doesn’t have a gluten sensitivity, took one bite and said, “This is heavenly!”

We tried Park Street’s basic, onetopping medium gluten-free pies (one with pepperoni and one with mushrooms), figuring there would be leftovers for lunch the next day but we only took home three pieces. Next time, we’ll be more adventurous and try one of the signature pizzas, which can also be made gluten-free.

And, if the regular-crust pizzas are just as tasty, everyone in your group will be happy. The menu also includes Buffalo-style wings, boneless wings, salads, sandwiches and desserts.

Located an hour away from Akron, Park Street Pizza is worth the drive (just make sure to bring back a slice for me!) To learn more about Park Street’s partnerships with local farmers, visit www.parkstreetpizza.com.

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 mousaka is killer good, and the baklava is decadent. 1702 Merriman Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-864-0722 $$ L, D, T Wally Waffle Breakfast served all day! Try the Elvis Waffle, loaded with bacon and peanut butter chips and topped with honey and sliced bananas. Plus, burgers, gyros, chicken sandwiches, fresh salads and more. 845 W. Market St. (Akron: Highland Square) 330-374-4915; 750 Darrow Rd. (Tallmadge) 330633-7400 $$ B, L, D (Highland Square location only), T Waterloo Restaurant Eclectic menu. Famous for the Waterloo Big Apple and French onion soup.

423 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: South) 330-773-5158 $$ B, L, D, T 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: Pilgrim Square) 330-836-4101; 1840 Town Park Blvd. (Green) 330-899-9968 $ B, L, T Whitehouse Chicken A Barberton tradition.

180 Wooster Rd. N. (Barberton) 330-745-0449; 2457 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-945-6555; 1941 Triplet (Ellet) 330-784-3000; 4195 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-5644; 137 East Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-633-4001; 199 Great Oaks Trail (Wadsworth) 330-335-6000; 247 S. Chestnut St. (Ravenna) 330296-2800 $$ L, D, T Wild Goats Coffee & Café Offers light entrées, vegan and vegetarian soups, and exceptional coffee. 319 W. Main St. (Kent) 330-677-2326 $$ B, L, D, T Winking Lizard Come to see the lizard, stay for the extensive beer selection and food. 79 Springside Dr. (Akron) 330-644-1780; 1615 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-467-1002; 5710 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330497-1133 $$$ L, D, A, T Wise Guys Lounge & Grill Located in the former Nick Anthe Restaurant, this spot, owned by Tom Procaccio, features steaks, seafood and pasta w w w. akronlife.com

dishes. Closed Sun. 1008 N. Main St. (Akron) 330922-3006 $$$$ L, D, A, T Wolf Creek Tavern Housed in the former Loyal Oak Tavern, this restaurant serves craft beer, wine, salads, wraps, burgers, pasta, steaks and homemade pie. Kids menu. Sunday brunch. 3044 Wadsworth Rd. (Norton) 234-571-4531 $$$$ L, D, A, T Yellowtail Japanese-style seafood and sushi buffet.

4054 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-666-9988 $$$$ L, D, A, T Yours Truly This award-winning restaurant is family-owned and operated, with an emphasis on customer service and family-friendly dining. Try the burger, chili and breakfast items. 36 S. Main St. (Hudson) 330-650-2900; 3725 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-722-5800 $$ B, L, D, A, T

Please send any changes or corrections to acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

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