July 2010

The Making of “25 Hill”

The Magazine of Greater Akron

07 >

0

7447 0 5 7 8 71

0

www.akronlife.com

Ohio Wines

HBA Envision Awards

July 2010

politan Living wntown Akron

fice: 21 Furnace Street urday 2-5, or private appointment. models now open for viewing.

e Financing - 3.5% 30 yr e loans with 0 points*

yers, rates as of 1-19-09 and subject to change. n down payment 3-10%

ta Companies Development

Manhattan Style Loft Condos 1,400-3,500 SF priced $180’s - $700’s.

Purchase, lease or rent to own.

Trade-in and corporate rentals available.

Restaurant and retail space available.

Table ofCONTENTS

See which local businesses readers voted a cut above the rest in the results of our 2010 Best of Akron survey.

70

Playing Favorites

74

Ohio’s Young Wines

79

A Wine-Drinking Generation

Readers recommend Akron’s best.

Coming of age right in our own backyard

Why today’s 20- to 30-somethings are opting for a more sophisticated drinking experience.

Cover illustration by Michael West with photos by Shane Wynn

4

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

(BOMFZ "LSPO *OD 8PSME DMBTT TFSWJDF GPS XPSME DMBTT DVTUPNFST

/FX 4UBUF 0G 5IF "SU 'BDJMJUZ $PNJOH 4PPO 1MFBTF WJTJU VT BU PVS UFNQPSBSZ MPDBUJPO BU (BOMFZ 5PZPUB

#SBOE OFX .FSDFEFT #FO[

.- ."5*$

#SBOE OFX .FSDFEFT #FO[

$ ."5*$

QFS NPOUI

QFS NPOUI

.0/5) -&"4& 8*5) %6& "5 4*(/*/( */$-6%&4 45 .0/5) #"/, '&& $"1 $045 3&%6$5*0/ 1-64 %0$ '&& 1-"5&4 "/% 5"9&4 .*-&4 1&3 :&"3 $&/54 1&3 .*-& 5)&3&"'5&3 /0 4&$63*5: %&104*5 3&26*3&%

(BOMFZ "LSPO *OD & .BSLFU 4USFFU "LSPO 0IJP

0QFO BU XXX HBOMFZNFSDFEFTCFO[ DPN

.0/5) -&"4& 8*5) %6& "5 4*(/*/( */$-6%&4 45 .0/5) #"/, '&& $"1 $045 3&%6$5*0/ 1-64 %0$ '&& 1-"5&4 "/% 5"9&4 .*-&4 1&3 :&"3 $&/54 1&3 .*-& 5)&3&"'5&3 /0 4&$63*5: %&104*5 3&26*3&%

8FµMM QJDL VQ ZPVS .FSDFEFT #FO[ GPS TFSWJDF BOE MFBWF ZPV B .FSDFEFT #FO[ MPBOFS BU OP BEEJUJPOBM DIBSHF XIJMF ZPVS WFIJDMF JT CFJOH TFSWJDFE (JWF VT B USZ ZPVµMM CF HMBE ZPV EJE (BOMFZ "LSPO *OD ZPVS MPDBM .FSDFEFT #FO[ OFX BOE QSF PXOFE EFBMFSTIJQ

Publisher’sPAGE

Top Reasons LeBron Will Go

I

’ve been trying to think of something new to say about LeBron James’ looming free agency from the Cleveland Cavaliers. I think he has gotten the idea that we all want him to stay. We even had a citywide “Day of Begging” in downtown Akron to express our fervent plea for him to re-sign with the Cavs. So, I got to thinking that maybe we should look at this from LeBron’s point of view. Maybe there are good reasons that he would want to leave our beautiful Northeast Ohio. Most of the time a person’s selling out his hometown come down to four reasons: Money, Fame, Power and Family.

No. 1 - Money

Even though the Cavs can offer LeBron more money than any other team, they can’t give him the television market that New York, Los Angeles or Chicago can. He can get paid huge sums to shill for local businesses in those cities.

Can’t you just see LeBron in full “Fred Martin Superstore” fashion pointing his finger at the camera and saying, “I want to sell you a car now!”? He could sell thousands of cars and maybe end up with his own car dealership or two.

Unless I’m missing something, I can’t see how money will play a part in his leaving the Cavs, although he did saying something about having to take care of his family, which in sports speak, means “I’m going for the most money” ala, Jim Thome, et al.

No. 2 - Fame

I’d say you couldn’t get much more famous than LeBron (that can be said for anyone who only has to use one name—Tiger, Mao, Barack, Jesus...), but I’m sure that there are some people in the farthest most outreaches of Siberia or on one of the Solomon Islands who have not heard of his name and playing in N YC or LA might just catch those people’s attention, but I don’t know. The people in New York will definitely boo him even if he brings nothing but championship year after year. Just look at the Yankees; they’ve won 27 World Championships, and A-Rod and company still get booed by the home crowd. LeBron’s probably not going to get that in Cleveland.

No. 3 - Power

Now, this is the area in which we in Northeast Ohio are at an unfair disadvantage. In California, LeBron could be elected governor like Arnold Schwarzenegger or Sonny Bono, who wasn’t governor only because he didn’t live long enough. And from there he could be elected President of the United States just like Ronald Reagan. Though he wouldn’t be the country’s first black president, you can’t get much more powerful than that unless he wants to start a religion. Then the sky’s the limit (no pun intended). He could start wars just by his words and could bring peace in much the same way.

No. 4 - Family

Usually, family is a reason to stay, but in LeBron’s case he may just want to get away from all of his uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews, nieces and assorted hangers-on. I remember Ken Griffey Jr. saying it was tough to play in front of his family and friends. He related a story of how when he played in front of his family in an All-Star game in Cincinnati, all they could talk about afterward was the fact that he had struck out, not the fact that he also hit a home run. If LeBron signs with any other team but the Cavs, he won’t have so much Monday morning quarterbacking to deal with from his family. He can go home to his penthouse in SoHo or his spread in Santa Monica and turn off the phone. But, of course, once he leaves the Cavs he will be only from Akron, not of Akron. No more MVP award celebrations at St. V’s or The University of Akron or any place in northeast Ohio, for that matter. He just won’t be welcome, because he has become an outsider.

I’m stumped. I can’t think of any more reasons that LeBron would want to leave his home, where he has been reared and where everyone adores him, even the LeBron Grandmothers. How could he break their hearts? We’ll see.

We can only hope that LeBron is different than the past sports stars.

Don Baker Jr. dbakerjr@bakermediagroup.com

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

7

Departments and Guides

www.akronlifeandleisure.com

7 Publisher’s Page

12

10 Out & About FirstMerit’s FirstFamily Award, 19th Annual Spring Gala

12 Get to Know

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Don Baker Jr. Associate Publisher Colin Baker Creative Director Kathy Baker Moorhouse Managing Editor Kristin Lindsey

Marge Klein, owner of The Peanut Shoppe Assistant Editor Jane Day

67

13 Style Fashion made in Akron

22 Akronite & Day Venue and Palate: July entertainment guide, restaurant listing and featured wines

99

54 Health & Wellness Taking the sting out of summer

57 Healthy Tips Ask Summa: The Science of Sleep

58 Home & Garden 2009 Envision Awards

67 Save the Dream, Save the Derby The making of “25 Hill”

99 The Last Word Blossom Music Center’s 1968 opening

Editorial Intern Denise Wright Contributing Writers Mary Ethridge Nancy L. Nierman Graphic Designer William Teckmyer III Photographer Shane Wynn Office Manager Jackie Booth Sales Colin Baker Ben DiCola Megan Dyer Carol Null Pat Tisch Circulation Jessica Burkhart 330-253-0056 ext. 112 Akron Life & Leisure is published by Baker Media Group, LLC, 90 S. Maple St., Akron, Ohio 44302-1629. Copyright 2010 © by Baker Media Group, LLC, ISSN No. 74470 57871. 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 Akron Life & Leisure 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.

E-mail: editor@bakermediagroup.com, dbakerjr@bakermediagroup.com, sales@bakermediagroup.com.

www.akronlife.com 8

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

If you’re taking drugs to relieve your chronic heartburn but have concerns about the long-term health risks associated with medications, you’ll be glad to know that now there’s a better, more effective solution. It’s a state-of-the-art surgery without incisions, and it’s now available for the first time in Northeast Ohio only at Akron General. For more information about the procedure that can bring you longer-lasting relief than acid reflux drugs or to attend a free information session, call our Heartburn Center at 330-344-BURN (2876). For more information visit akrongeneral.org/heartburn.

Finally, relief from heartburn.

Now only at Akron General.

OUT&ABOUT

FirstFamily Award

1

2

I

n an effort to give back to the communities it serves, FirstMerit Wealth Management Services has developed the first annual FirstFamily Award, which recognizes nonprofit organizations. The inaugural award was presented to Tuesday Musical for their long standing support of the Akron region. In addition to being honored with an award, FirstMerit Wealth Management Services also presented a financial contribution to a charity of their choice.

Tuesday Musical designated Children’s Concert Society, who received a $5,000 donation.

3

5

4

1. Front row: Pat Lenhart, executive director, Children’s Concert Society; Barbara Feld, executive director, Tuesday Musical; Dorothy Lepp, president, Tuesday Musical; Nikki Cannon, vice president, Children’s Concert Society; David Goodall, EVP, FirstMerit

Back row (all from First Merit): Nick Browning, regional president; Leigh Gerstenberger, SVP; Greg McDermott, SVP, retirement plan services; Bob Leggett, CFO

2. William and Barbara Costigan 3. Dr. Howard and Renee Pinsk 4. Barbara and Dr. Charles Davis 5. Cynthia Knight

19th Annual Spring Gala 1

3

2

S

couting was celebrated with style on Saturday, April 17 as the Rotary Club of Fairlawn and the Boy Scouts of America, Great Trail Council hosted their 19th Annual Spring Gala.

4

The black-tie event, held at the Hilton Akron/ Fairlawn every year, honors and supports community service while raising money for deserving local organizations. More than 400 guests enjoyed this year’s gourmet dinner and live and silent auctions in the Hilton ballroom. The theme of this year’s event was “100 Years of Scouting.” Proceeds from the 1. Tom and Ann Kelley event totaled more than $50,000.

10

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

5

2. Tom Gedelian, Laura Culp

4. Mark Whitlam, Beth Chonko and Sue Whitlam

3. Dennis and Rose Kleidon with Melinda and Bob Meyer

5. Lisa and Richard Fedorovich, Community Service Award recipient

If you find a more award-winning news broadcast in Ohio, you might want to check a map, because you’re in a different state.

We’re honored to be the most awarded news organization by the Ohio Society for Professional Journalists in 2009.

Get toKNOW

By Jane Day and photo by Shane Wynn

Marge Klein Owner of The Peanut Shoppe

I

f you can’t resist the aroma of the freshly roasted nuts at The Peanut Shoppe in downtown Akron, blame owner Marge Klein. She’s the woman responsible for keeping the tradition alive. Opened in 1934 as a company-owned Planter’s Peanut Shop, Klein’s dad bought the store as an independent in 1980. She took over ownership when he died in ‘98.

Klein and her crew, Bob Peacock, Debra Keyser and Sandy Kitchen—three employees with a combined seniority of more than 60 years—still use 1930s peanut roasters to cook 20 pound batches of unsalted peanuts in their shells each day. Cashews, almonds, pecans and shelled peanuts are fresh roasted daily, too.

Many of Klein’s customers were introduced to The Peanut Shoppe by their parents. Now they’re bringing their own children downtown to visit the store.

A people person, Klein loves the long-term relationships she’s forged through her many years in business. Talking with customers and getting to know them is one of Klein’s favorite things about her job.

“I love hearing their stories and sharing memories with them,” she says.

Even though her business has taken some hits in the past few years, she is optimistic about its future. Key Bank is moving in nearby, Christmas business is brisk and store traffic picks up in the summer months when more people come downtown for events at Lock 3.

Memorabilia: A vintage Mr. Peanut costume that she brings

out for parades and pre-school field trips.

Favorite causes: Haven of Rest. Programs against domestic

violence and drug abuse.

Favorite movie: “It’s A Wonderful Life”

Personal History: Lived in Kenmore and Norton before mov-

Favorite TV shows: “The Closer” and reruns of “Seinfeld”

ing to Copley. Two grown children—Blane and Christy.

Passions: Family and grandkids. “I wouldn’t be where I am

Hobbies: Car races (dirt and blacktop), motorcycling, flower

without the help of family and friends,” she says.

gardening and bird watching.

Personal heroes: “My parents. They taught me to work hard,

Pets: “Tiggers,” a calico cat who loves angel food cake

but put family and friends first.”

Favorite local getaway: Walking in the Metro Parks.

Top sellers at the store: Almonds and cashews. Chocolate cov-

Hidden talent: Baking.

ered pretzels and chocolate covered peanuts. Soft-serve frozen yogurt in summer.

Toughest thing about running a business: Paying the bills and

Best-kept secrets: Natural peanut, almond and cashew but-

keeping up with rapid price increases.

ters.

Typical work week: 72 hours.

Klein’s personal favorite: Salted peanuts mixed with candy corn. “Tastes like a PayDay,” she says.

12

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

FAS NO O

M A I D E N L A N E , 55 E. M A R K E T

$20

$16

2855 W. M A R K E T S T R E E T, S U I T E . 202

au a S g e o

au a S g e o

$140

$90

$60

18 N. H I G H S T R E E T

Co h g

ver wear

Co h g

$2199

Roc

Rubber C

Rubber C

$2199

$1999

20 N. H I G H S T R E E T

argo

egg

aw oh so

er

s a

$70

$300

$65

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

STREETS OF AKRON

au a S g e o

WE Gallery

sg s

sg s

$26

ogwood

sg s

Rubber Ci y Clo hing

ogwood

ogwood

Wha A Grea Ha !

IONMADE IN AKRON

13

a

akronite&day

venue

July Through 8/20 Falls River Cruise Travel under five bridges, see wildlife and enjoy a relaxing river experience on this 45-minute pontoon boat ride. North Pier Boardwalk of Riverfront Center (North of the fountain,) Cuyahoga Falls. Departs hourly Monday-Friday, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, noon-8 p.m. $4-$5. 330-971-8225

7/1-7/17 "The Foreigner" Comedy about a shy

7/5-7/8 Akron Aeros vs. Trenton Thunder

Englishman, on vacation at a Georgia hunting lodge, who concocts a plan to avoid speaking by posing as a foreigner who speaks no English. Porthouse Theatre, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. Tuesday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $13-$36. 330-672-3884

Minor league baseball. Canal Park, Akron. 7:05 p.m. $7-$10.

330-253-5151

Through 9/30 Cuyahoga Challenge Stay fit while enjoying the beauty of the National Park. Hike 10 designated trails of various difficulty levels and receive a commemorative patch designed by Chuck Ayers. Various trails throughout the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

330-657-2909 ext. 106

7/2 Canton’s First Friday “Chalk the Walk 2” is the theme of this month’s night out featuring art, music, live performances and great restaurant fare. Downtown Canton, 5-9 p.m. Free. 330-453-1075

7/1 Movies at Main Holmes and Watson must unravel a deadly plot that could destroy the country in “Sherlock Holmes” starring Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law and Rachel McAdams. Akron Summit-County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron. 6 p.m. Free. 330-643-9015 7/1-7/4 Rib, White and Blue Festival

Barbeque bliss from some of the nation’s best grill masters.

Plus live music, inflatables, fireworks on July 4 and more.

Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sunday, noon- 11 p.m.

Lock 3 Park, Downtown Akron. Free admission.

330-375-2877 7/1-7/5 Akron Racers vs. Chicago Bandits

Firestone Stadium, 1575 Firestone Parkway, Akron.

Thursday-Saturday, 7:05 p.m. Sunday 7:35 p.m. $7-$9.

330-376-8188

L

7/2 Rockin’ on the River Outdoor concert featuring “Fins to the Left,” a tribute to Jimmy Buffet and Uptown Cats. Falls River Square, Cuyahoga Falls.

5-11:30 p.m. Free. 330-730-7591 7/2 and 7/16 Live Musical Performance on the Porch First and third Fridays lunchtime concert

series. Bring a brown bag and enjoy live music on the porch.

Mustill Store, 248 Ferndale St., Akron. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Free. 330-374-5625 7/3 Canal Day Arts Festival and Duck Derby Celebrate Mustill Store’s 10th Anniversary with

local artists, vendors and musical guests, “Hey Mavis!”

Mustill Store, 248 Ferndale St., Akron. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

(Races at 1 and 2 p.m.) Ducks for sale; Free admission.

330-374-5625 7/3 Annual Portage Lakes Boat Parade

Enjoy this fun celebration of Independence Day on the Portage Lakes. Parade starts at Kieffer Marine on East Reservoir and travels to the beach at Turkeyfoot Lake.

1 p.m. portagelakes.com 7/3 Cracker Alternative rock band plays selections

Looking Ahead July 29- Aug. 8 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival Aug. 2-8 World Golf Championships: Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone Country Club

from their newest release "Sunrise in the Land of Milk and Honey." Musica, 51 E. Market St., Akron. 9 p.m. Advance tickets $20. 330-374-1114 7/3 Annual Portage Lakes Fireworks

This show originates from Mason’s Point in Turkeyfoot Lake. Visitors can watch from Portage Lakes State Park, 5031 Manchester Road, Akron. (Rain date: 7/4) 10 p.m. portagelakes.com

Aug. 14 University Park Art Fair at Grace Park 14

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

7/5-7/26 Riverfront Cruise-In Family-friendly cruise in with 250-300 cars, two DJs, food and fun at Cuyahoga Falls River Square, downtown Cuyahoga Falls.

Mondays, 5-9 p.m. Free. 330-945-5800 7/6 Music by the Lake Enjoy an evening of free lake swimming and a one-hour performance by the Metro Parks Ensemble at Maple Beach Shelter. Free dessert while supplies last. Rain date: 7/13. Munroe Falls Metro Park, 521 S. River Road, Munroe Falls. 5-8 p.m. 330-865-8060 7/7 Jazz Series at the Zoo Kick back, relax and enjoy one of the area’s hottest jazz bands. Refreshments and appetizers available for purchase. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron. 6-9 p.m. $7-$11. 330-375-2550 7/8 Candlelight Labyrinth Walk Leave your shoes at the door and walk the labyrinth in silence and prayer. Steve Rhinesmith on contemporary folk guitar and vocals provides accompaniment. First Congregational Church of Akron, 292 E. Market St., Akron. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free.

330-253-5109 7/8 Movies at Main Dwayne Johnson, Ashley Judd and Julie Andrews star in “Tooth Fairy.” Akron SummitCounty Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron. 6 p.m. Free.

330-643-9015 7/8 Pops ‘n More: “Year of the Bat” Hear live

music by the Akron Pops Orchestra, enjoy free dessert while supplies last plus pre-concert activities for kids. Rain date 7/15. Firestone Metro Parks, Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron. 7:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8060 7/8 Lynyrd Skynrd Hear the American rock band

on its “God and Guns” tour with 39 Special. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7 p.m. $25-$65.50. (Lawn six pack: $69.) 330-920-8040 7/8-7/24 “Taming of the Shrew” Stan Hywet

Hall & Gardens and the Ohio Shakespeare Festival present this classic Shakespeare comedy on the grounds of the historic country estate. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. Thursday-Sunday, 8 p.m. (Greenshow, 7:30 p.m.) $20-$25. 330-836-5533

Connecting Dreams & Resources

CFP %GTV ±GF (KPCPEKCN 2NCPPGT

Jess W. Hurst II

Thomas M. Presper

CFP %GTVK±GF (KPCPEKCN 2NCPPGT

CLU, CHFC, CFP %GTVK±GF (KPCPEKCN 2NCPPGT 4GIKUVGTGF 4GRTGUGPVCVKXG

CFP %GTVK±GF (KPCPEKCN 2NCPPGT

4GIKUVGTGF 4GRTGUGPVCVKXG

Comprehensive. Committed. Customized.

9GCNVJ OCPCIGOGPV RTQHGUUKQPCNU YKVJ VJG MPQYNGFIG CPF GZRGTVKUG VQ JGNR OCMG [QWT FTGCOU C TGCNKV[ Investment Portfolio Management Retirement / Pre-Retirement Planning Estate and Legacy Planning

%CNN VQFC[ HQT C EQORNKOGPVCT[ EQPUWNVCVKQP 5QWVJ /CKP 5VTGGV 5WKVG #MTQP 1* www.themillennialgroup.com Securities and investment advisory services offered through Multi-Financial Securities Corporation Member FINRA / SIPC Multi-Financial Securities is not affiliated with The Millennial Group

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF AKRON AND THE DOWNTOWN UPSTAIRS PERFORMANCE PROJECT* PRESENT

downtownu downto wnupst pstair airspe sperforma rma mance n @gmail.co nce com m

Fridays atfirst

in downtown akron

*Bringing innovative and virtuosic music theater works to Northeast Ohio audiences • Fridays in July at 7:00 pm.

7/9 Stairway to Paradise: Songs of Sin and Redemption Megan Elk performs works of Harold Arlen, Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, and Kurt Weill with local jazz greats Bobby Selvaggio and Chris Baker. An evening of song, dance, and stories of personal struggle to provoke both thought and laughter!

7/16 Be Heard! A Downtown Upstairs Pre-professional Training Program Performance The culminating performance of a week long pre professional music theater training program featuring 14 amazing young vocalists from High Schools throughout Northeast Ohio.

7/23 Jazz Fantasia he Calling all musicians join us for an evening of spoken word and jazz improvisation featuring the Phil Anderson trio. The evening will close with an open community jam session!

7/30 Downtown Upstairs Opera: A Celebration of Everyday Life in America “Opera” as you have never seen it before, interpreted by contemporary American composers.

Featuring Rachel Morrison, soprano; Megan Elk, mezzo soprano; Kyle Kelvington, tenor; and Jeremy Gilpatric, baritone; joined by Amy Malyuk, piano.

Megan Elk - Kyle Kelvington Artistic Directors The Rev. Dr. Jay Marshall Groat, Sr. Minister Valerie Thorson, Director of Music 292 East Market Street (corner of Market & Union Streets).

Ample free parking is available and the church is handicap accessible.

330.253.5109 www.akronfcc.org

All performances will be held in the church’s intimate upstairs Learning Center theater space. Suggested donation: $10 per concert.

For further information, please phone the church office at 330 253 5109.

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

15

S

Peninsula Night Rides

B

ring your own bike, helmet and headlight for a nighttime bike ride on the Towpath Trail. Led by staff members of Century Cycles in Peninsula, the rides are open to people of all ages riding all different kinds of bikes.

Now in their 15th year, the free night rides start at 8 p.m., last about two hours and cover 12-15 miles. Remaining dates this year are July 9 and 24; Aug. 7 and 27; Sept. 18 and Oct. 8.

Park just north of the store at the Lock 29 Trailhead, then meet fellow cyclists in the parking lot at Century Cycles on Route 303 where the rides begin and end. No registration is needed, but participants must sign a waiver. Call 330-657-2209 for more information.

Unique Business Location Available

4BUVSEBZ

4FQUFNCFS B N Q N Start/Finish at Howe Meadow in Cuyahoga Valley National Park

4TOMP is one of the largest

Work in the Park!

Seeking Professional Office Tenant or Like Owned by Village of Peninsula On Route 303 W of Rt 8 Gateway to Cuyahoga Valley Nat’l Park Long Term Lease Available in Exchange for Building Improvements marymarybooth@yahoo.com 330-657-2244

cycling events in Northeast Ohio!

10-mile “Family Fun” Tour 25-mile Tour 63-mile Metric Century Tour Registration starts at $20/person and includes:

Light breakfast Lunch Live music Free T-shirt (7/30 deadline)

stompbikeride.com E X P E R I E N C E T H E G AV I N S C O T T D I F F E R E N C E .

C O L O R • C U T S • H I G H L I G H T S • M A N I C U R E S • P E D I C U R E S • FA C I A L S • B O D Y WA X I N G

STOMP is a fund-raiser sponsored by Citizens for Metro Parks, Robert Freitag, treasurer. All proceeds benefit Metro Parks, Serving Summit County.

PRESENTED BY

FIRST PLACE: BEST

H A IR COLOR

2010 Best of the Akron-Canton FOX 8 HOT LIST gavinscottsalon.com • 4960 B Darrow Road, Stow, OH 44224 • 330.650.4450 16

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

2010 AT HARDEST Y PARK

Taste of Akron Wine Tasting Silent Auction July 22 6 - 10 pm Sample Appetizers, Entrees & Desserts for $2, $4, & $6 Over 25 Restaurants Live Entertainment Free Admission Cooking Contest & Much More! ͵͵Ͳ ͵͹ͷ ʹͺ͵ͷ

July 23

Hardesty Park 1615 W. Market Street Akron, Ohio 44313

Akron Arts Expo July 24 10 - p July 25 10 - 5 pm

6 - 30 p

Free Admission Over 160 Artists Fine Arts & Crafts Children’s Area Live Entertainment Ballet Performance Free Onsite Parking Free Shuttle Service

150 Wines & Beers Hors d’oeuvres Silent Auction & Raffle Live Entertainment Ballet Performance Tickets: $40.00 2 Tickets for $75.00

www.AkronArtsExpo.org July 2010

͵͵Ͳ ͵͹ͷ ʹͺ͵͸

Akron Life & Leisure

17

S

Around Town

Cindy Lewis Retires The Stow-Munroe Falls Chamber of Commerce held a retirement party on June 1, in honor of Cindy Lewis, who served as the chamber’s executive director for 22 years.

Come visit our...

FRXUW\DU works by

500 artists.

rumm Don Dstudios & gallery

437 crouse street - akron 330.253.6268 VKRS GRQGUXPP FRP PWZI WK VDW

Mayor Karen Fritschel and Cindy Lewis

7/9 Ales on the Rails: A Taste of Ales from Thirsty Dog Brewery Sample unique beers and

enjoy appetizers that complement them on this special beer-tasting train. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Akron Northside Station, 27 Ridge St., Akron. $45-$80.

800-468-4070 7/9 Rockin’ on the River Outdoor concert featuring “Draw the Line,” Aerosmith tribute band and “Skinny Moo.” Falls River Square, Cuyahoga Falls.

5-11:30 p.m. Free. 330-730-7591 7/9 Brooks & Dunn Country music duo Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn perform in their “Last Rodeo” tour. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7:30 p.m. $20-$69.50. 330-920-8040 18

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

7/9-7/11 63rd Annual Italian American Council Festival Enjoy a weekend of great food,

entertainment, vendors, children’s activities and Saturday night fireworks at this popular festival. Lock 3 Park, Downtown Akron. Friday, 11:30 a.m.-midnight; Saturday, 11 a.m.-midnight; Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 330-699-9911 or 330-922-4846 7/10 Misty Morning Ramble Go off trail with Ranger Rebecca Jones on a 5-mile hike that includes creek crossings and ravines between Buckeye Trail and Blue Hen Falls. Columbia Run Picnic Area, 7492 Riverview Road, Peninsula. 8-11 a.m. 330-657-2752 7/10 Pancakes with the Penguins Eat break-

fast, feed the Humboldt penguins and take a guided tour though the park to see how other animals start their days.

Pre-registration required. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron. 8-10 a.m. $13-$23. 330-375-2550 7/10 Hale and Hearty Dinner Series

Celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Hale family’s arrival in the Western Reserve with this feast of pioneer foods.

Gatehouse Visitor Center, Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Peninsula. Reservations required. 6-9 p.m. $40-$45.

330-666-3711 7-10 NEO Roller Derby Women’s roller derby

double header: NEO Audio Assault vs. Muskegon, Michigan’s Skee Town Skirtz and NEO Rock’N’Roller Girls vs. Detroit’s Disassembly Line. Summit County Fairgrounds, 110 North Ave., Tallmadge. 5-9 p.m. $12-$15. 330-633-6200 7/10 7th Annual Butterfly Gala Enjoy two

auctions, food catered by Beau’s Grille and a vast expanse of flowers at this year’s fundraiser themed “Lilies by the Lake.”

Proceeds benefits Stewart’s Caring Place which serves those touched by cancer. Dan and Ginger Marchetta residence, 4151 Bath Road, Bath. 5 p.m. $175+. 330-701-5883 7/10 Summer Constellations Learn to find

summer constellations in the night sky. Oak Hill Trailhead, 3901 Oak Hill Road, Peninsula. 9:30-11 p.m. 330-657-2752 7/10-7/11 36th Annual Lake Anna Arts & Crafts Festival Beautiful arts and crafts display and

sale with live entertainment and food. Lake Anna Park, 615 Park Ave., Barberton. Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 330-848-6740 7/10-7/11 35th Annual Music in the Valley Folk Festival Bring the family and some lawn chairs

for an enjoyable day of music throughout the grounds. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $5-$10. 330-666-3711 7/13 Fourth Annual Akron/Canton Dinner of Champions Ann Amer Brennan, chair of Brennan

Family Foundation will be awarded the Norman Cohn Award for her community service at this event presented by White Hat Management. Quaker Station at Quaker Square, 135 S. Broadway St., Akron. Cocktail reception and silent auction, 6-7:30 p.m.; dinner and program, 7:30-9:30 p.m. $150.

216-503-4184

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

19

S Get it. Now at

SF Salon on facebook thesfsalon.com 330.836.7219

117 Merz Boulevard, Suite 114 (just one block east of summit mall)

An Akron Tradition Nothing says July in Akron quite like the All-American Soap Box Derby, celebrating its 73rd anniversary this year. Though the future appeared dim for the derby, things are beginning to look up.

Corbin Bernsen has undertaken the film project “25 Hill,” in an attempt to save the derby and preserve this annual tradition for future generations. For more information about this year’s events, visit aasbd.org. For details about “25 Hill,” which began production in Akron in April, check out the special supplement in this issue or visit 25hill.com.

7/14 Music in the Meadow Hear HeartBEAT Afrika’s unique percussion, storytelling and dance in the African tradition. Then, cap off your evening with a rangerled walk. Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula.

6:30 p.m. Weather permitting. Free. 330-650-4636, ext. 228 7/14-7/18 Akron Racers vs. USSSA Pride

Firestone Stadium, 1575 Firestone Parkway, Akron.

Wednesday-Saturday, 7:05 p.m.; Sunday, 7:35 p.m. $7-$9.

330-376-8188

4th Annual Akron-Canton

7/15 Movies at Main Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw star in the 2009 Academy award winning film, “The Blind Side.” Akron Summit-County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron. 6 p.m. Free. 330-643-9015 7/15 Iron Maiden British heavy metal band, Iron

Join us on Tuesday, July 13th at Quaker Station as we honor

Presented by

White Hat Management

Cocktails & Silent Auction 6:00 p.m.

Dinner 7:30 p.m.

Ann Amer Brennan, Chair of the Brennan Family Foundation.

To purchase a table or make your reservation, call 216-503-4184 or visit MSohiobuckeye.org today!

Special Thanks Ohio Buckeye Chapter

20

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Maiden, performs live. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7:30 p.m. $31-$65.50.

330-920-8040 7/15 Downtown Barberton Cruise-In Check out some great classic cars and meet the people who own them at this third Thursday of summer event. West Tuscarawas Ave. and 2nd St. NW, Barberton. (Rain date: Fourth Thursday) 5:30-8:30 p.m. 330-472-0366 7/15-7/18 Akron Aeros vs. Erie Sea Wolves Minor league baseball. Canal Park, Akron.

Thursday-Saturday, 7:05 p.m.; Sunday, 1:35 p.m. $7-$10.

330-253-5151 7/16 Art Amore—the Art of Giving This year’s Greenleaf Family Center fundraiser includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dinner and auctions. Brian Moore will receive the center’s Betty Dalton Community Service Award. Portage Country Club, 240 N. Portage Path, Akron. 5:30 p.m. $100+.

330-376-9494, ext. 202

7/16 16th Annual Island Party and Pig Roast Family-friendly reggae party with Carlos Jones &

the P.L.U.S. Band. Island food and beverages for sale. Bring lawn chair or blanket. Rain or shine. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E., Massillon. 6-11 p.m. Free. 330-833-4061 7/16 Grape Escape Wine-Tasting Express: French Bordeaux Wines An evening of choice

wines and tasty appetizers add to the fun on this evening train ride. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Boston Mills Station, Boston Mills and Riverview roads, Peninsula.

7-9 p.m. $55-$90. 800-468-4070 7/16 Rockin’ on the River Outdoor concert

featuring Dave Matthews Tribute Band and “Hey Monea!”

Falls River Square, Cuyahoga Falls. 5-11:30 p.m. Free.

330-730-7591 7/16 WONE’s Rock the Lock Concert Hear

Rick Ray Band followed by The Machine performs Pink Floyd.

Lock 3 Park, Downtown Akron. 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Free.

330-375-2877 7/17 Rubber City Roller Girls Enjoy a high-

energy evening of women’s flat-track roller derby and halftime entertainment. John S. Knight Center, 77 E. Mill St., Akron. Doors open, 5 p.m. Bout starts, 6 p.m. $5-$13.

330-957-0688 7/17-7/18 National Hamburger Festival

Hamburgers and veggie burgers from more than 20 vendors plus live music, contests, kids’ play areas and more. Lock 3 Park, Downtown Akron. Saturday, noon-10:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-7 p.m. 716-998-3921

F

I

N

E

J

E

W

E

L

R Y

116 N O RT H M A I N S T R E E T • H U D S O N • 330.650.9011 • W W W . J E W E L RYA RT H U D S O N . C O M

7/17 and 7/22 Hale Farm & Village Garden Tours Leave the car and take a ride on the

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad to Hale Farm for guided tours of historically recreated pioneer, kitchen, dye, herb and ornamental gardens as well as the Great Lakes Brewing Company’s organic “Pint Size Farm.” Tickets include a train ride, boxed lunch and tours.Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath. $45-$50. cvsr.com 7/17-7/24 All-American Soap Box Derby

Witness the world’s longest running youth racing event.

Championship week activities culminate in the big race on Saturday. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. 330-733-8723 7/18 Vintage Base Ball Come and watch the game as it was played in the 1860s at an all day event showcasing eight clubs. Two “matches” take place simultaneously throughout the day. Bring chairs or blanket. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $8.

330-836-5533

SUHVHQWV +DELWDW IRU +XPDQLW\ RI 6XPPLW &RXQW\ $QQXDO *ROI 2XWLQJ 0RQGD\ -XO\ 3RUWDJH &RXQWU\ &OXE 6FKHGXOH RI (YHQWV $0 /XQFK RQ WKH 3DWLR

30 6KRWJXQ 6WDUW

30 'LQQHU %XIIHW

)RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ UHJDUGLQJ VSRQVRUVKLS RSSRUWXQLWLHV RU WR 5693 SOHDVH FRQWDFW 5RFKHOOH )LVKHU DW [

7/18 Boomerang Fun Try your hand at this aboriginal flying device in the open spaces of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Boomerangs provided or bring your own. Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview road, Peninsula.

6-8 p.m. 330-657-2909

0HGLD 6SRQVRU

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

21

7/18 Shunpiker’s Picnic/Ice Cream Social

Enjoy an old-fashioned ice cream social off the beaten path, plus Victorian lawn games and mansion tour with summer exhibit. Hower House, 60 Fir Hill, Akron. 2-4 p.m. $2-$6.

330-972-6909 7/18 Willie Nelson and Family Hear the outlaw

FREE service

in Downtown Akron.

The free downtown Loop is back for summer service! With stops at places like the Akron Art Museum, the Zoo or the Mustill Store, you’re sure to find something to do!

The Loop runs Wednesday through Sunday, June - October.

Visit our website or give us a call for schedules & routes.

country icon live as he stops by Akron on his international tour. Tickets purchased for the May 11 concert will be honored. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron.

7:30 p.m. $49.50-$59.50. 330-535-8131 7/19-7/21 Akron Aeros vs. Altoona Curve

Minor league baseball. Canal Park, Akron. 7:05 p.m. $7-$10.

330-253-5151 7/20 Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers

Hear this iconic rock band on their North American Summer Tour. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7:30 p.m. $41-$131. 330-920-8040 7/21 Jack Johnson: To The Sea Tour 2010

Hear the Hawaiian singer-songwriter and surfer known for his work in the soft rock and acoustic genres. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7 p.m. $35-$55. 330-920-8040 7/22 Taste of Akron More than 25 of the area’s

akronmetro.org | 330.762.0341

For every event in your life …Making memories sweeter.

finest classic and ethnic restaurants showcase their best.

Plus, backyard chefs compete in The Finest Cut steak grilling cookoff. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St.,Akron. 6-10 p.m.

Free admission; samples $2-$6. 330-375-2835

Here’s my idea of economic stimulus: Get discounts up to

40% Birthdays Wedding

Graduation

If your economy needs some stimulation, I’ll show you how to make your car insurance dollars work harder. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7

E]_`Yf EY[<gfYd\ Afk 9_[q Af[

Anniversary

Baby Shower

Children’s Birthdays

E]_`Yf EY[<gfYd\$ 9_]fl /-. ?jY`Ye JgY\ :mk2 ++(%1*1%*-(( ooo&e]_`YfeY[\gfYd\&f]l

Located in Pilgrim Square Plaza • 2303 W. Market St. • Akron, OH 44313

330-836-4101 • thewestsidebakery.com 22

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

P090102 04/09

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL

7/22 Movies at Main An innocent man is accused in “Saboteur” an Alfred Hitchcock classic starring Robert Cummings and Priscilla Lane. Akron Summit-County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron. 6 p.m. Free. 330-643-9015 7/22 Dinner in the Valley: Bistro Dining

Relax in the outdoor garden court and sample delicious bistro fare. Come early and enjoy a stroll through town or visit the "Abraham Lincoln: Self Made in America" national exhibit at the G.A.R. Hall. Park Place, 1593 Main St., Peninsula. Reservations accepted through 7/15. 6:30-8 p.m. $7-$30. 330-657-2909, ext. 100.

7/22 Akron Pops Orchestra Hear show tunes,

classical pieces, operettas and more from this all-volunteer community orchestra. Valley Vista Park, 2791 Valley Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7:30 p.m. Free. 330-928-7458 7/22 Cuyahoga Valley Contra Dance Join

dancers as a guest caller leads and the band, "Hushmoney," plays jigs, reels and tunes. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Boston Township School House, 1775 Main St., Peninsula. 8-10:30 p.m. (Instruction at 7 p.m.) $6.

330-657-2752 7/22-8/8 “Bye, Bye Birdie” Classic musical about

rock ‘n’ roll superstar Conrad Birdie who, to the dismay of his adoring fans, is about to be drafted into the Army.

Porthouse Theatre, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. Tuesday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $13-$36.

330-672-3884

*

APR 15 Year Fixed Rate Real Estate Mortgage %

Need a predictable loan payment? The fixed rate mortgage is a great option!

We can help.

North Akron Savings Bank is a trusted lender - we’ve been lending in your community for more than 88 years.

Rated 4-stars by BauerFinancial, Inc.!

Call one of our experienced and friendly loan officers:

*ENNIFER "RANNON s $ORIS &LOYD s *Annual Percentage Rate (APR) accurate as of 05/17/2010. APR is a sample based on the following terms: loan amount of $100,000, 4.125% interest rate, 4.158% APR, 179 monthly payments of $745.97 and a final payment of $745.29. These payment amounts do not include taxes and insurance premiums on the property securing the loan, so your actual obligation will be greater. Loan-to-value ratio must be 80% or less and first lien position is required. Interest rates change daily and may vary based on credit quality, loan amount, and property type. Applies to owner-occupied property. All loans are subject to credit approval, and acceptable appraisal and title search. Other rates, terms, payments and loan amounts available. Please contact us at (330) 434-9137 for an up to date quotes or to discuss your specific needs.

www.northakronsavingsbank.com

Call (330) 434-9137 and ask for the location nearest you.

Akron | Cuyahoga Falls | Munroe Falls | Norton

7/23 Akron Arts Expo Wine Tasting & Silent Auction Upscale event features more than 150

wines and beers from around the world, entertainment, hors d’oeuvres and opportunity to bid on items donated by local businesses and artists. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron. 6-8:30 p.m. $40/person;$75/couple.

330-375-2835 7/23 Brad Paisley His popular style of country music

is frequently laced with humor and pop culture references.

Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 4 p.m. $28.50-$59.75. 330-920-8040 7/23 WONE’s Rock the Lock Concert Hear

The Satisfiers followed by Separate Ways, a tribute to Journey. Lock 3 Park, Downtown Akron. 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Free. 330-375-2877 7/23-7/24 Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival: VERB Ballets Enjoy two nights of

contemporary dance under the stars at this popular West Akron community park. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron. 8:45 p.m. Free. 330-375-2345 7/23-7/25 Carriages in the Park Carriage driving competition for pleasure drivers and competitors.

Features include a special Saturday program, a cones demonstration and a parade through the Village. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Peninsula. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

330-666-3711

• Sapphire • Cerec • Las Vegas Institute of Cosmetic Dentistry • Cosmetic/Restorative • We Accept Care Credit

Robert E. Smith, D.D.S., Inc General Dentist Comprehensive Cosmetic Dentistry 330-666-7800 or 1-800-335-3369 3610 West Market Street • Akron www.robertesmithdds.com

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

23

7/24 A Tea for All Seasons Marie Morgan shares

her extensive knowledge about fashion for sport and leisure in the early 20th century. Refreshments include a variety of iced teas and tea sandwiches. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $20-$25. 330836-5533 7/24 Pajama Party and Snooze at the Zoo

Celebrate the year of the bat at the Zoo’s annual slumber party. Activities include scavenger hunt, bouncy houses, live entertainment, snacks and crafts. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron. 6-9 p.m. Optional overnight. $7-$49.

330-375-2550 7/24 Lock 3 Live! Saturdays Hear “The

Twistoff” followed by “Bruce in the USA,” a tribute to Bruce Springsteen. Lock 3 Park, Downtown Akron. 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Free. 330-375-2877 7/24 Moonlight Bike Ride Ride the Towpath

Trail under the light of the full Buck Moon, followed by a campfire. Helmets and lights required for 15-mile ride.

Bring your own food and chairs. Big Bend Trailhead, 1337 Merriman Road, Akron. 8 p.m. 330-865-8060 7/24-7/26 Akron Racers vs. Chicago Bandits Firestone Stadium, 1575 Firestone Parkway,

Akron. Saturday, 7:05 p.m.; Sunday 7:35 p.m.; Monday, 7:05 p.m. $7-$9. 330-376-8188 7/25 Beat the Heat Hike Hike seven miles along

moderate ledges, lake and cross country trails. Ledges Shelter, 701 Truxell Road, Peninsula. 8-10:30 a.m.

330-657-2752 7/25 Summer Butterflies Join a park ranger and citizen scientists to hone your butterfly-spotting skills along the trails. Pine Hollow Trailhead, 5465 Quick Road, Peninsula. 10-11:30 a.m. 330-657-2752

3XEOLF EURDGFDVWLQJ KDV VRPHWKLQJ IRU HYHU\RQH 6DUDK ORQJHG WR SOD\ DQ LQVWUXPHQW %XW ZKHQ KHU PRWKHU GLHG XQH[SHFWHGO\ VR GLG KHU GUHDP ,W FRVWV PRQH\ WR UHQW PXVLFDO LQVWUXPHQWV²DQG VR GRHV EXU\LQJ D ORYHG RQH :KDW WKLV OLWWOH JLUO GLGQ¶W NQRZ DERXW ZDV 0XVLF $OLYH D SKLODQWKURSLF SURMHFW FUHDWHG E\ SXEOLF UDGLR VWDWLRQ :$36 )0 0XVLF $OLYH LV WKH XOWLPDWH UHF\FOLQJ SURJUDP² FROOHFWLQJ UHIXUELVKLQJ DQG ,W¶V QRW HYHU\ GD\ WKDW \RX FDQ VHH DQG KHDU GRQDWLQJ XVHG LQVWUXPHQWV VRPHRQH¶V GUHDP FRPH WUXH WR XUEDQ VFKRRO FKLOGUHQ &DURO 6FKZHL]HU 0XVLF 7HDFKHU

7/25 Music at the Farmstead Seven flautists

present a tribute to flute music through the ages in this program called “Idle Twittering: a Flock of Flutes.” Conrad Botzum Farmstead, 3486 Riverview Road, Akron. Picnicking, 5 p.m.; Concert, 6:30 p.m. $18. 330-666-9686 7/25 Brandi Carlile After non-stop touring, Carlile

offers her most candid recording to date in her new album, “Give Up the Ghost.” This concert is an opportunity to hear her in an intimate setting. The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent. 7:30 p.m. $27.50. 330-677-5005 7/26 Kings of Leon Hear the alternative rock band with southern and blues influences. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7:30 p.m. $3.50-$56.50. 330-920-8040 7/26-7/28 Akron Aeros vs. Bowie Baysox

Minor league baseball. Canal Park, Akron. 7:05 p.m. $7-$10.

330-253-5151 7/27 Lilith Fair Sarah McLachlan headlines this

popular music festival featuring all-female solo artists and bands. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7:30 p.m. $37-$107. 330-920-8040

24

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

7/27-8/1 Summit County Fair Affordable family fun includes amusement rides, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, competitions, demolition derby, fair food and more. $5-$15. 330-633-6200 7/28 Music in the Meadow Hear bluegrass band Copus Hill. After the concert, cap off your evening with a ranger-led walk. Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula. 6:30 p.m. Weather permitting. Free.

330-650-4636, ext. 228 7/28 Summer Fun Run Runners and walkers of all

levels are welcome at this non-competitive run. Routes vary from 3-6 miles. Rain or shine. Pine Hollow Trailhead, 5465 Quick Road, Peninsula. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-657-2909

Reconnect with Family Fun Days

7/29 Movies at Main The world famous singing

pre-teen chipmunk trio contend with the pressures of school, celebrity, and a rival female music group in “Alvin and The Chipmunks: The Squeakquel.”

7/29-8/1 Akron Aeros vs. Reading Phillies

Minor league baseball. Canal Park, Akron. ThursdaySaturday, 7:05 p.m.; Sunday, 1;35 p.m. $7-$10.

330-253-5151 7/29-8/1 Akron Racers vs. Tennessee Diamonds Firestone Stadium, 1575 Firestone Parkway,

Akron. Thursday-Friday, 7:05 p.m.; Saturday, 7:35 p.m.; Sunday, 2:05 and 4:05 p.m. $7-$9. 330-376-8188 7/23 WONE’s Rock the Lock Concert

A Magnificent Historic House Museum and Country Estate 714 North Portage Path Akron 330 836 5533 www.stanhywet.org

Hear "Time Traveler", tribute to Moody Blues, followed by "Slowhand," a tribute to Eric Clapton. Lock 3 Park, Downtown Akron. 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Free. 330-375-2877 7/30 Rockin’ on the River Outdoor concert

featuring “7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience” and “Lawless.” Falls River Square, Cuyahoga Falls. 5-11:30 p.m.

Free. 330-730-7591 7/30-7/31 Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival: GroundWorks Dancetheater Enjoy

two evenings of great modern dance in this unique outdoor setting. Glendale Cemetary, 150 Glendale Ave., Akron.

8:45 p.m. Free. 330-375-2345 7/30-8/1 Disney’s “The Jungle Book” Join

Mowgli, Baloo, King Louie and the gang in this 2010 Theatre Summer Camp Production adapted from the beloved film.

The Players Guild Theatre, 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton.

Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday 2:30 and 7 p.m.; Sunday 2:30 p.m. $10. 330-453-7617

Voted Best Facial on Fox8 F x8 Hot List ist

7/30-8/15“King Lear” Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

and The Ohio Shakespeare Festival present this classic tragedy, considered one of Shakespeare’s greatest works.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron.

Thursday-Sunday, 8 p.m. (Greenshow, 7:30 p.m.) $20-$25.

330-836-5533

ѽ ȬɄɤɑȽȐɴ ȨȽɜɄ ɬȐȵȵȽȐɕɕ

ɬȨɜȣ Ǹ ȣȐǸȵɜȣɴ ɕȰȨȽ ǸȽȇ ǾɄȇɴѱ

7/31 Lock 3 Live! Saturdays Hear “Mo Mojo ”

followed by “Buckwheat Zydeco.” Lock 3 Park, Downtown Akron. 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2877

Akron General Health & Wellness Center - West 4125 Medina Rd. • Akron, OH 44333 330-665-8010 • www.studiov.com July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

Ѿ

25

Art Shows and Exhibits Through 7/10 “Art from the Salon” & “Expressions by Paula Mastroianni” Enjoy work by 11 local artists including art instructor Nancy Stewart

Matin, who conducts classes in her home in the style of the old Salon as well as Paula Mastroianni’s art-wear jewelry. The Little Art Gallery of the North Canton Public Library, 185 N. Main St., Canton. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tuesday-Thursday, noon8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. 330-499-4712, ext. 312 Through 7/26 Form, Function & Figure: Contemporary Ohio Ceramics Featuring 16 artists who represent the post-1950s evolution of ceramic arts in

Ohio. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton. Tuesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.8 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sunday 1-5 p.m. $4-$6.

330-453-7666 Through 7/31 “Figuratively Speaking” Art of the human body created by

Bonnie Stipe, Rachel Gentner and Ron White. Summit Artspace Gallery, 140 E. Market St., Akron. Thursday-Saturday, 12 noon-5 p.m. 330-376-8480 Through 7/31 “The Beautiful American Landscape” Exhibit

coordinated by Crooked River Gang. Most artwork is available for purchase. M.D. Garage, 1556 W. Boston Mills Road, Peninsula. Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Also open Monday, July 5. 800-445-9090 Through 8/8 Plein Air Competition Exhibition The wonder and beauty

of the Cuyahoga Valley are the focus of this show featuring work by artists who competed in Peninsula’s 2nd annual Plein Air Competition in June. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula. Thursday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m 330-657-2248 Through 8/28 Seventh Annual Fiber CAFE Show and Sale

Functional and non-functional fiber works are on display and available for purchase at this exhibit. Peninsula Library, 6105 Riverview Road, Akron. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 330-657-2248

Androgeny, Rachel Gentner

“Figuratively Speaking” from June 18-July 31, Summit Artspace.

Through 10/10 Detroit Disassembled Through 9/12 Against The Grain: Modernism in the Midwest This exhibit includes 70 paintings produced between 1900 and 1950 by artists who were born in, studied or worked in the Midwest. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E., Massillon.

Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 2-5 p.m. Free. (330) 833-4061 Through 9/25 Pieces of Life: Quilts & Needle Arts Across Time

Antique and modern quilts and needle work including pieces from the Hower collection are on display. Hower House, 60 Fir Hill, Akron. Wednesday-Saturday, noon-3:30 p.m. $2-$6.

330-972-6909 Through 10/3 Re-visions: Isaac Julien’s “True North” Shot in Iceland,

this multi-media installation unfolds on three screens that span almost 40 feet. Images zoom in and out on the icy vistas. Mysterious and haunting sounds are layered with voices and music to echo the vast, isolated landscape. Akron Art Museum, One S. High St., Akron.

Wednesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. $5-$7. 330-376-9185 Through 10/10 Detroit Disassembled: Photographs by Andrew Moore Part documentary, part metaphor, this exhibition features Moore’s tragically

beautiful images of rusting factory halls, crumbling theaters, skeletal houses and collapsed churches in the city that was once the epitome of our nation’s industrial wealth and might.

Akron Art Museum, One S. High St., Akron. Wednesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. $5-$7. 330-376-9185 Through 10/31 Discovering the Elusive Hugo Huber Explore the intricate details of the Manor House’s décor and the New York interior designer who guided the fine selections of this home. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron.

Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $6-$18. 330-836-5533 7/9-8/7 Subliminal Conversations Painting and sculpture by Catherine “Katina”

Patis Radwanski. The BOX Gallery, 140 E. Market St., 3rd Floor, Akron. Friday-Saturday, noon4:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 1, noon-4 p.m.; Friday, Aug., 7, 5-9 p.m.

7/12-9/4 Fantasy and Comic Book Art Original work by Dennis Crabapple

McClain (born in Akron as Dennis Cramer) plus sketches illustrating the process of comic creation, digital works, original art from influential masters of the genre and pre-production sketches from Bambi and The Simpsons. UA’s Emily Davis Gallery, 150 E. Exchange St., Akron. Monday, Tuesday, Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wednesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Free.

330-972-6030 7/24-7/25 Akron Arts Expo Nationally recognized juried fine arts and crafts show

with over 165 artists, great concessions, interactive children’s area and family entertainment.

Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron. Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Free. 330-375-2835

26

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Helping good

great things.

Award Winning Service and Quality Thanks Again Akron Past winner 2007, 2008, 2009

1-888-FUSSY4U fussycleaner.com

Akron Community Foundation helps good people do great things in Summit County. Your gifts, combined with thousands of others, help meet our community’s ever-changing needs.

Do something great.

Call 330-376-8522 today.

345 W. Cedar St. Akron, OH 44307 ph: 330.376.8522

July 2010

www.akroncommunityfdn.org

Akron Life & Leisure

27

a palate akronite&day

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 Information subject to change.

Please call ahead to verify location, hours and events.

Adam House Tavern & Dining A former stagecoach inn and tavern built in the 1840s. 3044 Wadsworth Road (Norton) 330-825-8280 $$$ L, D, A, T Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices. 250 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-376-0600 $ B, L, D, T Aladdin’s Eatery Nice atmosphere, charming outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-535-0110 First and Main streets (Hudson)330-656-0560 $$ L, D, A, T Al’s Corner Restaurant Old-world comfort food served cafeteria style. Cabbage rolls and sausage made locally are a favorite. 545 W. Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330-753-7216 $$ L, T Angello’s Historic building with an Italian neighborhood feel. People’s Choice award winner for best pizza 19972000 Downtown Canton Pizza Challenge. 4905 Tuscarawas St. W. (Canton) 330-477-1486 $$ L, D, A, T Anthe’s The perfect place for a first date or a special celebration. The filets are first-rate. 4315 Manchester Road (Akron: South) 330-644-2239 $$$$ L, D, A, T Arcadia Grille Italian cuisine with pasta and chops.

Breakfast served Saturday and Sunday only. 321 Court Ave. (Canton: Downtown) 330-454-6055 $$ B, L, D, A Arnie’s West Branch Steak House Casual dining atmosphere, specializes in steak, ribs and seafood.

Closed Sundays. 5343 state Route 14 (Ravenna) 330-2971717 $$$ D, A, T

Barley House Menu includes hot and cold deli sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, soups and more. 222 S. Main St.(Akron) 330-374-0925 $$ L, D, A, T

The Cabin Upscale Italian within the Mario’s International Spa and Inn complex. 49 E. Garfield Road (Aurora) 330562-9171 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T

Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Fairlawn Hilton. 3180 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330865-5577 $$$$ L, D, A, T

Cafe Tandoor Casual atmosphere, exquisite Indian cuisine. Closed Mondays. 96 Barrington Town Center (Aurora) 330-562-5334 $$$ L, D, A, T

Belgrade Gardens Famous for fried chicken and homestyle cooking. 401 E. State St. (Barberton) 330-7450113, 3476 Massillon Road (Green) 330-896-3396 $$ L, D, A, T

Caffé Gelato Imported Italian coffee drinks as well as paninis, salads, soups, pizza, desserts and, of course, homemade authentic Italian gelato. Live entertainment on weekend evenings. 506 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330494-1123 $ B, L, D, T

Bellacino’s Sample 19-22 different kinds of grinders.

Fresh bread baked daily. 4320 Kent Road (Stow) 330-6891000 $$ L, D, T Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood. 137 Court Ave. SW (Canton 330-453-8424 $$$$ L, D, A, T Beside the Point Café Treat yourself to specialty sandwiches, main-event salads, homemade soups and hot kitchen creations, which are always on the menu at this West Point Market restaurant. 1711 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-864-2151 $$ B, L, D, T Bialy’s At the Lakes An American menu in the Portage Lakes. 493 Portage Lakes Drive (Portage Lakes) 330-644-7177 $$ L, D, A, T Bianca’s Ristorante Italiano Italian menu. 4284 Beverly Hills Drive (Brunswick) 330-225-0927 $$ L, D, A, T Bistro on Main Offers house-made desserts, hand-cut steaks and fresh pasta. Closed Sundays. 1313 W. Main St. (Kent) 330-673-9900 $$$$ L, D, A, T Blue Canyon Creative American cuisine in six natureinspired dining environments. Sunday jazz brunch. 8960 Wilcox Drive (Twinsburg) 330-486-2583 $$$ L, D, A, T Bombay Sitar Home of the finest Indian cuisine. All food is natural and prepared fresh daily. 4633 Belden Village St. NW (North Canton) 330-493-0671 $$ L, D, T Bricco Unique pizza and pasta. 1 W. Exchange St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T

Capri Pizza Longtime Highland Square joint with pizza, pasta, wings and barbeque ribs. 810 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-762-9131 $ L, D, T Casa Del Rio Mexican dining. 839 High St. (Wadsworth) 330-335-4001 $$ L, D, A, T The Chophouse Enjoy great steaks and seafood.

6041 Whipple Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-494-6758, 45 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-535-6410 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Chowder House Café Salads, soups, sandwiches and chef Louis Prpich’s signature clam chowder are on the menu at this new neighborhood restaurant. Open weekdays for lunch; Saturday lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Daily specials. 2028 Chestnut Boulevard (Cuyahoga Falls) 330794-7102 $$$ L, D, T Cilantro Upscale Thai and Japanese restaurant features extensive menu, all fresh ingredients, hand selected sushi and no MSG. Spice levels from 0 to 5. Eclectic atmosphere.

326 S. Main St. (Downtown Akron) 330-434-2876 $$$ L, D, A, T Coopers in the Valley American-style classics including soups, chili and BBQ ribs. Most entrées made from scratch. 1824 Merriman Road (Merriman Valley) 330-865-9510 $$ L, D, A, T Country Diner A locally owned after-church favorite that also has 100 percent employee and management contribution to the United Way. Open 24 hours. 520 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-376-9300 $$ B, L, D, T

Complete list of area restaurants and events....check it out!

28

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Crave Moderately priced, 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 Cristo’s House of Pasta Pizza, manicotti and stuffed shells are a few of the favorites. Closed Sundays.

1275 Norton Ave. (Norton) 330-825-1994 $$ L, D, A, T Crooked River Grill Full-service catering and restaurant. Ribs a specialty. 403 N. Main St. (Munroe Falls) 330-688-9911 $$$ L, D, A, T Dave’s Cosmic Subs Sign the walls at this sub stop, which features psychedelic and music memorabilia decor.

186 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-342-5666 $$ L, D, T Dave’s Tip Top Pleasant atmosphere with homestyle menu, perfect for family dining. 3428 Darrow Road (Stow) 330-688-3171 $$ B, L, D, T David B’s Grill & Pub Known locally for excellent service and variety of foods. 3900 Medina Road (Montrose), 330-666-1191 526 W. Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330-745-7677 $$$ L, D, A, T Delanie’s Neighborhood Grille Comfort food with a sporty atmosphere and a full bar. 67 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-630-2888 $$$ L, D, A, T Deli on Rye Excellent variety of sandwiches. Meats and cheeses are sliced to order. Large chunks of deli-style dill pickles on each table are the house tradition. 180 W. Streetsboro St. (Hudson) 330-650-1617 $$ L, D, A, T Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970. Specializes in shish kabobs, “Family Style.” 204 12th St. NW (Canton) 330-456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A Diamond Deli A downtown Akron favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-762-5877 $ B, L, A, T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse. Highly regarded, authentic 1950s-style décor. All steaks are handcut and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No credit cards Dontino’s Restaurant Homestyle Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T Double Decker Stone Grill Gourmet sandwich shop combines lava stone grilling with highest-quality steaks and fresh seafood. Homemade corned beef and pastrami from Ohio-fed beef. Unique sides and dressings like carrot mango slaw and horseradish vinaigrette. Full bar with 35 wines. Wine-tasting Tuesdays. 1662 Merriman Road (Akron) 330-864-3663 $$$ L, D, A, T

" ! !

Edgar’s Located at Good Park Golf Course, Edgar’s presents a variety of entrees such as chargrilled grouper, homemade soups including New England clam chowder, salads and starters. 530 Nome Ave. (Akron) 330-869-3000 $$$ L, D, A, T Egg Castle A Fairlawn/West Akron meeting place for breakfast and lunch. Home cooking. Omelets a specialty.

Killer baked goods. 25 Ghent Road (Fairlawn) 330-836-1767 $$ B, L, T El Campesino Authentic Mexican cuisine. Delicious, quick and reasonably priced. 4360 Kent Road (Stow) 330-686-5561, 9169 state Route 14 (Streetsboro) 330-626-9777, 4048 Lincolnway E. (Massillon) 330-477-8731 $$ L, D, A, T El Rincon Fast and authentic Mexican cuisine. 1485 S. Arlington St. (Akron: South) 330-785-3724; 720 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330-497-2229; 3212 Tuscarawas St. W. (Canton) 330-453-9200 $$ L, D, A, T Erie Station Grille Features such classics as baby back ribs seared with homemade BBQ sauce and prime rib of beef au jus. 70 East Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-634-9900. $$$ L, D, A, T

Located at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn 3180 West Market Street, Akron, OH 44333 Reservations are suggested.

Call 330-867-5218 or 330-867-5000 or visit us at www.beausgrille.com July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

29

Farmer Boy Restaurant House specialties include Greek souvlaki, Broaster chicken and delicious desserts.

1324 Canton Road (Akron: East) 330-784-4052 $$ B, L, D, T Firehouse Grill & Pub A casual place to watch sports and enjoy steaks, buffalo wings or crab legs. 1677 E. Market St. (Akron: East) 330-733-6279, 2727 Manchester Road (Akron) 330-848-2426 581 Norton Road (Barberton) 330-861-0300, 4809 state Route 44 (Rootstown) 330-325-0706, 76 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-634-9967 $$ L, D, A Fisher’s Café & Pub American cuisine. 1607 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-657-2651 $$ L, D, A, T Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar An upscale, friendly and smoke-free steakhouse, Fleming’s offers aged beef, chops, fresh seafood, salad and more than 100 wines by the glass. 4000 Medina Road (Akron) 330-670-5200 $$$$ D, A, T Franklin Square Deli Quality sandwich shop with an auto-racing theme. 108 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-673-2942 $$ B, L, D, T No credit cards Fred’s Diner Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch. 930 Home Ave. (Akron: North) 330-535-3733 $ B, L, T The Galaxy Restaurant A diverse selection of dishes in a creative building. Fantastic desserts. 201 Park Centre Drive (Wadsworth) 330-334-3663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Gasoline Alley Eclectic menu featuring pizza, salads, sandwiches and sauerkraut balls. 870 N. ClevelandMassillon Road (Bath) 330-666-2670 $$$ L, D, A, T Geisen Haus Generous portions, great beer selection.

6955 Promway Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-499-9116 $$ L, D, A, T Great Harvest Bread Co. A neighborhood bakery specializing in all natural, whole grain breads, cookies and breakfast items. Deli sandwiches and fresh soup served at lunch. 3900 Medina Road (Fairlawn)330-666-7497 $ B, L, T

Golf Membership Social Membership Swimming - Tennis - Dining Exercise Room - Banquet Facilities

Discover the new Rosemont Country Club

330-666-1121 Play 2 golf courses for the price of one* Discover the Value of Membership at Rosemont

Reserve time afterward for Elegant Dining at Rosemont Country Club Enjoy the finest in seafood, steaks and pasta and one of the region's most extensive selections of wine and beer.

Akron Life & Leisure

The Grill Room at Martin University Center Former members-only University Club is now the Martin University Center, open to the public. Casual upscale, sandwiches, salads and entrees. 105 Fir Hill (Akron: Downtown) 330-972-7711 $$ L, A, T Grinders Above & Beyond This casual, family restaurant serves a variety of items including grinders, burgers, dinners and appetizers. Homemade soups and pies a specialty. 1671 N. Main St. (North Canton) 330-4974800, 3114 Whipple Ave. (Canton) 330-477-5411, 1820 W. State St. (Alliance) 330-821-6665, 404 E. Lincoln Way (Minerva) 330-868-7824, 500 W. Main St. (Louisville) 330875-9700 $ B, L, D, A, T Gus’ Chalet A North Hill institution, popular meeting place for Akron area politicos. Serves a variety of dishes, from Greek favorites to standard American fare. 938 E. Tallmadge Ave. (Akron: North) 330-633-2322 $$ L, D, A, T

*Rosemont County Club and Chippewa Golf Club in Doylestown

30

Green Diamond Grille & Pub Upscale dining without upscale pricing. Specializes in steaks and chops.

125 Second St. (Barberton) 330-745-1900 $$$ L, D, A, T

July 2010

Hartville Pie Factory & Restaurant Casual dining in a country setting you can enjoy up close (weather permitting) from wraparound balcony seating. Features home-cooked meals, fresh-made pies and a kids menu.

101 N. Prospect Ave. (Hartville) 330-877-6969 $$ B, L, D, T Hattie’s Café & Gifts This café, operated by Hattie Larlham, serves as a training and vocational site for people with disabilities. Features coffee, pastries baked on site, ice cream, soups, salads, sandwiches. 164 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-655-0044, 520 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-379-0260, 60 S. High St. (at Akron Library) 330-762-0853 $ B, L, D, T.

Henry Wahner’s Restaurant An old favorite in Kent across from KSU, serving a complete German menu.

Also, German-style bar with beers served in ice cold steins.

1609 E. Main St. (Kent) 330-678-4055 $$$$ D, A, T No credit cards Hibachi Japan Steak House Japanese Hibachistyle cooking, great steak and sushi. 2251 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-3333 $$$ L, D, A, T Hopocan Gardens Barberton-style chicken. 4396 W. Hopocan Ave. (Barberton) 330-825-9923 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards House of Hunan Common favorites to spicy specialties. Oriental décor includes rock garden fountain, ceramic tile mural imported from China. 12 E. Exchange St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-1888, Fairlawn Town Centre 2717 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-864-8201, 18 Public Square (Medina) 330-722-1899 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Hudson’s Restaurant on the Green Neighborhood restaurant and bar serving fresh, chefdriven dishes at casual dining prices in a family-friendly atmosphere. 80 N. Main Street (Hudson) 330-650-1955 $$ B, L, D, A, T Hunan in Aurora Traditional Chinese food in a restful atmosphere. 15 N. Aurora Road (Aurora) 330-995-0099 $$$ L, D, A, T Hyde Park Grille New York-style upscale steakhouse.

4073 Medina Road (Montrose) 330-670-6303 $$$$ D, A, T, V Ido Bar & Grill Home of the beloved Ido Burger. An Akron tradition since World War II. 1537 S. Main St. (Akron: South) 330-773-1724 $$$ L, D, A, T

Lolli’s Well-regarded Italian cuisine, suitable for private parties. 4801 Dressler Road NW (Canton) 330-4926846 $$$ L, D, A, T Louie’s Bar & Grille Local reputation for the hamburgers. 739 E. Glenwood Ave. (Akron: North) 330535-5030 $ L, D, A, T No credit cards Luchita’s Authentic Mexican cuisine with a four-star rating and voted No. 1 by NOL and Scene Magazine. 36 Park Lane (Hudson) 330-655-0059 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Luigi’s Restaurant An Akron icon, Luigi’s is open late serving superb and affordable Italian cuisine, salads and award-winning pizza. Voted Best Pizza and Best Italian Restaurant by Akron Life & Leisure readers in 2004, 2006–2009. Party trays and sheet pan pizzas available with 24-hour notice. 105 N. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330253-2999 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards Lukity Country Inn Homestyle comfort food. 2697 Manchester Road (Akron: South) 330-753-5983 $$ B, L, A, T Main Wok Fast, inexpensive Chinese cuisine. 2855 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-8885 $$ L, D, T No credit cards Maize Valley Winery Sample wine by bottle or glass, taste 100+ types of cheeses, meats and breads, appetizers and sandwiches served daily. Full dinner menu on Sat. evenings. 6193 Edison St. NE (Hartville) 330-877-8344 $$ L, D, A Marcelita’s Southwestern atmosphere, guacamole made fresh daily, authentic Mexican fare at reasonable prices.

7774 Darrow Road (Hudson) 330-650-1121 $$ L, D, A, T

Jordan’s Family Restaurant Comfort food, standard American fare. 13211 Cleveland Ave. NW (Uniontown) 330-699-9291 $ B, L, D, T No credit cards

Mary Coyle Known for endless ice cream options, also has a strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s Best Red Sauce. 780 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330253-1511 $$ L, D

Ken Stewart’s Grille Widely recognized as one of Akron’s finest. Upscale eclectic cuisine with an emphasis on steak and seafood. 1970 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330867-2555 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V

Medina Steakhouse & Saloon Old-fashioned décor turns this once stagecoach stop into an open, casual place for food. 538 W. Liberty St. (Medina) 330-723-2853 $$ L, D, A

Ken Stewart’s Lodge Casual, Adirondack-style atmosphere, eclectic cuisine. 1911 N. Cleveland-Massillon Road (Bath) 330-666-8881 $$$$ D, A, T

Menches Brothers Restaurant Inventors of the hamburger and the ice cream cone. In Akron since 1901.

3700 Massillon Road (Green) 330-896-2288 $$ B, L, D, A, T

Lanning’s Restaurant Elegant dining atmosphere with a beautiful view. More than 150 varieties of wine. 826 N. Cleveland-Massillon Road (Bath) 330-666-1159, 330864-2553 $$$$ D, A, T, V Larry’s Main Entrance English pub style, burgers of note. 1964 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-864-8162 $$ L, D, A, T The Lockview The Lockview boasts a fresh menu that puts a spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches in addition to traditional American favorites. 207 S. Main St. (Downtown Akron) 330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T

BLUESberryFest!

Saturday, July 10, 2010 Noon to 4pm

Food & fun

for the whole family!

Enjoy live blues music from 12:30 to 3:30pm.

Michael’s AM Casual, family-style dining. Full breakfast and lunch menu featuring sandwiches and daily specials.

1562 Akron-Peninsula Road (Merriman Valley) 330-9293447 $ B, L, T No credit cards Mike’s Place Unique atmosphere, extensive menu. 1700 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-673-6501 $ B, L, D, A, T Milich’s Village Inn Finger-lickin’ chicken prepared Barberton style. The tenders are a twist on the famous recipe. 4444 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road (Norton) 330825-4553 $$ L, D, T No credit cards

Catering • Party Trays Private Parties Chuck Magilavy - Proprietor Voted Best Deli And Corned Beef Akron Life & Leisure 2004 Best Deli Sandwich Akron Life & Leisure 2007

378 S. Main St. Akron, Ohio 44311 Phone: 330-762-5877 Fax: 330-762-9101

Northeast Ohio’s largest locally owned natural and organic foods market!

Best Sandwich shop 2008 MyFoxCleveland.com Runner-Up Best Sandwich Shop 2009 MyFoxCleveland.com July 2010

JULY 7 - AUGUST 2, 2010

Save 15% on all vitamins, herbs & supplements* *Suggested Retail Price - Sale Items Not Included - Excludes Everyday Value Items

Mustard Seed Market & Café 3885 W. Market Street Akron, OH 44333 330.666.SEED Toll-Free 888.GROCERY 6025 Kruse Drive Solon, OH 44139 440.519.FOOD Toll-Free 877.496.FOOD

www.mustardseedmarket.com Akron Life & Leisure

31

w

ine

Trivento Select Torrontes

A

lthough we’re amidst the hot days of summer here in the U.S., in Argentina they have just finished harvest and their climate is turning snowy and cold as the vines go dormant. As the missionaries started in South America in the early 1500s, they brought with them grape seeds and cuttings to Argentina to start their grape vines for religious ceremonies.

Some of the first cuttings to be planted in Argentina came from Spain and southern France. Malbec has become more and more popular and is now Argentina’s best known grape varietal. The Malbec grape varietal is named after the Hungarian peasant who introduced the vine into France centuries ago. When we think Argentina wines, most come from the Mendoza region which is nestled in the foothills of the Andes Mountains.

Trivento Select Wines have 1,300 acres planted and are located in Mendoza in the eastern foothills of the Andes Mountains.

Trivento Select Malbec is a very silky smooth, medium-bodied red wine. The tannins are typically a bit tight and the earthy, wood-like appeal makes for a fairly rustic, yet versatile wine. Malbec wine goes best with a rib roast, steak, roast beef and prime rib. Mexican, Indian and Italian foods, especially those with rich tomato sauces, also complement Malbec wine.

Trivento Select Torrontes is a fresh and smooth wine with floral aromas and is perfect for summertime patio sipping with friends and family.

Torrontes is light, fresh and fruity, and usually has a slight sweetness on the finish. It goes well with seafood, medium to strong cheeses, chicken dishes, as well as spicy food and Thai as well.

Akron Life & Leisure

Moe’s Hip and intimate atmosphere featuring a diverse chalkboard menu that changes weekly. Martinis, cocktails and an extensive selection of wines by the glass. Closed Sundays. 2385 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-6600 $$$$ L, D, A, T Mr. Zubs Deli New Highland Square deli at the Matinee features hot and cold sandwiches named after movie characters, cream cheese spreads, salads and lots of sides.

Open late night. 812 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-252-0272 $ L, D, T Mulligan’s Pub Local antique décor, award winning barbecued ribs, extensive menu. 4118 Belden Village St. NW (North Canton) 330-493-8239 $$$ L, D, A, T Mustard Seed Market Café Located on the mezzanine overlooking a unique natural foods market. The menu reflects the same strict standards as the market with naturally raised meats, free-range poultry and foods free from artificial flavors, colorings and preservatives. Full bar, juice bar and espresso. Live music weekends. Sunday brunch. 3885 W. Market St. (Montrose) 330-666-7333, 6025 Kruze Drive (Solon) 440-519-3663. $$$ L, D, T New Era Restaurant A mainstay of the Akron area.

Heavenly paprikash and other Hungarian favorites. 10 Massillon Road (Akron: East) 330-784-0087 $$ B, L, D, A, T No credit cards The New Peter Shears Downtown New age food in a vintage setting with affordable pricing. 427 E. Tuscarawas St. (Canton) 330-588-8300 $$$$ L, D, A, T Nick Anthe’s An established tradition in Akron’s North Hill. Halibut is a favorite. Steaks, lamb chops and rack of lamb are also popular. 1008 N. Main St. (Akron: North) 330929-6425 $$$$ L, D, A, T Northside Loud food and spicy music in an historic, turnof-the-century saloon featuring an all-organic menu. Live music six nights a week. Attached to Northside is Snook’s, an intimate jazz lounge featuring fine wine and spirits. 111 N. Main St. (Akron) 330-434-7625 $$ L, D, A, T 91, Wood Fired Oven Upscale casual. Pizza and pasta are specialties. West coast atmosphere with patio dining available. Washington Square Plaza 1983 Easton St. NW (North Canton) 330-498-9191, 5570 Fulton Drive NW (Canton) 330-497-9111 $$$ D, A, T Oaks Lodge Menu features many well-prepared dishes.

Outdoor dining and water views are available. 5878 Longacre Lane (Chippewa Lake) 800-922-5736 $$$$ L, D, A The Office Metropolitan bistro and lounge with an eclectic ambiance and timeless decor. 778 N. Main St. (Akron) 330-376-9550 $$$ L, D, A, T Olde Harbor Inn Upscale dining with contemporary cuisine. Overlooks the Portage Lakes. 562 Portage Lakes Drive (Akron) 330-644-1664 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V

For only $11 you can enjoy these wines with your meals or with friends as an aperitif before dinner.

Look for these wines at your favorite Acme Fresh Market, Buehler’s Fresh Foods, Heinen’s, Unexpected Wine and Gift, Papa Joe’s or your favorite wine retailers in the greater Akron Area.

—Rick Rodger, Heidelberg Distributing Co.

32

The Mill A unique concept in in-store dining. The pancake special will start your day off right. 175 Great Oaks Trail in Buehler’s Foods (Wadsworth) 330-336-3588 $$ B, L, D, T T

July 2010

Otani’s Japanese Hibachi-style tableside cooking. 1684 Merriman Road (Akron) 330-836-1500 $$$$ L, D, A, T Pad Thai Elegant restaurant with extensive menu of many traditional Thai dishes. 3545 Brookwall Drive. (Fairlawn) 330-668-9981, 5657 Darrow Road (Hudson) 330-6509998 $$ L, D, A, T Pancho & Lefty’s Popular neighborhood cantina.

3254 Kent Road (Stow) 330-686-6781 $$ L, D, A, T Pancho’s Southwestern Grill Tex-Mex, Southwestern chicken specialties, charbroiled pizza, plus steaks and seafood. 4325 Massillon Road (Green) 330896-1991 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Bear’s Italian Restaurant This is the place to be for great, authentic, homemade Italian food. 4990 Dressler Road NW (Canton) 330-493-0090 $$$ L, D, A, T

Papa Gyros Greek Grill Specializes in authentic Greek fare including gyros, souvlaki platters, baklava and more. Greek wine and beer also available. 4760 Everhard Road NW (Belden Village) 330-497-1100, 2045 Cleveland Ave. NW (Canton) 330-456-9000 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Joe’s A classy atmosphere with an extensive wine list, fine Italian fare, seafood and steaks. 1561 AkronPeninsula Road (Merriman Valley) 330-923-7999 $$$ L, D, A, T Parasson’s Great for family dining, reasonable prices, good pasta. 501 N. Main St. (Akron: North) 330-376-2117, 959 E. Waterloo Road (Akron) 330-724-9375, 3983 Darrow Road (Stow) 330-688-3650, 364 Wooster Road N. (Barberton) 330-753-2264 $$ L, D, A, T Piatto Novo Authentic Italian fare including steaks and seafood, coupled with a breathtaking view of the Cuyahoga River, make this a must-do experience.1989 Front St. at the Sheraton (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-920-7530 $$$$ L, D, A, V Pillitiere’s Their sub sandwiches and affordable lunches are a Firestone Park tradition. 61 E. Waterloo Road (Akron: South) 330-773-0206 $ B, L, D, A, T Platinum Dragon Facing the heart of Highland Square, a great spot for people-watching. Menu features a variety of Chinese favorites. 814 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-434-8108 $ L, D, A, T Pufferbelly Ltd. Located in historic Kent railroad depot.

152 Franklin Avenue (Kent) 330-673-1771 $$$ L, D, A, T Raj Mahal Traditional Indian cuisine with excellent lamb and chicken curry dishes. Daily lunch buffet. 2035 State Road (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-926-0795 $$$ L, D, A, T Ray’s Place The area’s largest selection of foreign and domestic beer in the bottle and on draft. 135 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330-673-2253 $$ L, D, A, T Reggie’s Cheerful atmosphere, homestyle cooking from breakfast to burgers, perfect for family dining. 4065 State Road (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-1234 $$ B, L, D, A, T No credit cards Reserve Inn A Hudson landmark featuring fine cuisine and an upscale setting. Traditional steaks and ribs with a Cajun selection or two. 30 W. Streetsboro St. (Hudson) 330650-1717 $$$ L, D, A, T The River Brasserie & Bar Formerly LeFever’s, this eatery serves regional cuisine in an upscale setting overlooking the Cuyahoga River. 2291 Riverfront Pkwy. Ste. 100 (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-4233 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Rose Villa American menu. 368 Portage Lakes Drive (Portage Lakes) 330-644-5522 $$$ L, D, A, T Russo’s Chef from the former Liberty Street Brewing Co. flexes his culinary muscles with unique cuisine featuring Cajun and Italian influences. Fine dining atmosphere. 4895 State Road (Peninsula) 330-923-2665 $$$$ L, D, A, T Rusty Nail Casual atmosphere, serving quality steak, seafood and chicken. 7291 State Route 43 (Kent) 330673-2297 $$$ D, A, T Saffron Patch Features fine Indian cuisine including tandoori chicken, ginger-seasoned yellow lentils and garlic naan. 1224 Weathervane Lane (Akron) 330-836-7777 $$$ L, D, A, T Sakura Fresh sushi served daily. Offers wide selection of specialty rolls. 3900 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330-670-0288 $$$ L, D, T Sarah’s Vineyard Sample high-quality wines, appetizers, sandwiches and desserts while relaxing in the tasting room, on the deck or in the educational butterfly garden. Open Wednesday-Sunday. 1204 W. Steels Corners Road (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-8057 $$ L, D, A Schwebel Garden Room Fine dining on the KSU campus. Kent State University 330-672-2583 $$$ L, D, A, T

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

33

Scorcher’s Sports atmosphere, full bar with wall of drafts, plus casual menu offering large selection and portions.1800 Merriman Road (Merriman Valley) 330-8654688, 3274 Kent Road (Stow) 330-686-4688, 99244 Market Square Drive (Streetsboro) 330-422-3473.$ L, D, A, T Sisters Century House Historic Canal Fulton building overlooks the Ohio Canal. Known for the twicebaked potatoes. 123 S. Canal St. (Canal Fulton) 330-8549914 $$ B, L, D, T

Here, helping families is par for the course.

CG&FS named one of top 50 NonProfit Organizations

Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition, drive-in burgers, fast fare. 2781 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-836-2806, 951 E. Turkeyfoot Road (Green) 330-896-9350, 3296 Medina Road (Medina) 330-7218561 $ L, D, T No credit cards Spaghetti Warehouse Generous portions of a variety of Italian favorites and a unique atmosphere. Eat in an old railroad car or a converted bed. 510 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-374-0025, 888-485-5510 $$ L, D, A, T The Stables Hall of Fame Grille Unique atmosphere in former Timken estate stables, just a few blocks from the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Perfect restaurant for sports fans. 2317 13th St. NW (Canton) 330452-1230 $$$ L, D, A, T Steak on a Stone Steaks, seafood and poultry served at your table on volcanic stone heated to more than 750 degrees. Sunday brunch includes carving station, eggs benedict and waffle station.145 Montrose West Ave. (Copley) 330-665-2929 $$$$ L, D, A, T

CG&FS (Child Guidance & Family Solutions) is honored to be named one of the nations’ top non-profit workplaces by The NonProfit Times. Our highly motivated staff helps children and families in Summit County who are affected by mental health issues.

Support CG&FS through Tickets Fore Charity You can help CG&FS when you buy tickets to the 2010 WGCBridgestone Invitational. Purchase your tickets at the Tickets Fore Charity website www.buytfc.com and enter code BIFCJV. Seventyfive percent of the ticket price will benefit CG&FS. For details, please contact Melissa Hamlin at 330-762-0591 ext. 3312 or visit www.cgfs.org.

www.cgfs.org

34

Akron Life & Leisure

Steinly’s Down-home breakfasts are a mainstay. 235 E. Waterloo Road (Akron: South) 330-773-6422 $ B, L, D, T No credit cards Steve’s Dakota Grill Upscale casual NW lodge setting with prime rib specialty voted Best of the Best, fresh seafood daily, steaks. 2809 Pearl Road (Medina) 330-7256288 $$$$ L, D, A, T Sweet Pea Café New restaurant offers traditional breakfast fare plus homemade granola, omelets and frittatas; soup, salad, sandwiches, mac and cheese and meatloaf for lunch, all made from scratch. 117 Merz Blvd.

(Fairlawn) 330- 794-7952 $$ B, L, T Swensons Drive In Voted best cheeseburger in America. The Galley Boy is the signature burger. 658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-8515, 18 S. Hawkins Ave. (Akron: West) 330-864-8416, 4466 Kent Road (Stow) 330-678-7775, 40 Brookmont Road (Montrose) 330-665-1858, 5815 Wales Road NW (Jackson Twp.) 330-833-5454, 1558 N. Main St. (North Canton) 330-499-9494 $ L, D, T Taco Tontos Funky, college atmosphere featuring authentic Mexican cuisine made from scratch. Good selection of vegetarian dishes. 123 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330-677-0223 $$ L, D, T Tequila Pancho’s Many flavors of margaritas at this Mexican restaurant. 5893 Akron-Cleveland Road (Boston Heights) 330-342-9401 $$ L, D, A, T The 356th Fighter Group World War II theme restaurant, casual fine dining, locally owned and operated.

4919 Mt. Pleasant Road (North Canton) 330-494-3500, 800-994-2662 $$$ L, D, A, T Thyme the Restaurant This fine dining spot features contemporary cuisine with worldly influences, served in an upscale, modern setting. 716 N. Court St. (Medina) 330674-4114 $$$$ L, D, A, T Totally Cooked To Go Market Located adjacent to the catering offices, the market offers a casual comfort food menu that changes weekly. 2730 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-9964 $$ B, L, D, A, T Trackside Grille at Quaker Square Trainthemed restaurant with three actual railroad cars inside.

135 S. Broadway St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-0552 $$ L, D,T July 2010

Tre BelleKen Stewart brings an Italian atmosphere and authentic cuisine. Specialties include an antipasto bar, big drinks and an extensive wine list. 1911 N ClevelandMassillon Road (Bath) 330-666-9990 $$$ D, A, V, T Twigs Don’t let the small exterior fool you; there’s plenty of room inside and the customers keep coming back. 334 31st St. NW (Norton) 330-825-1016 $ B, L, T No credit cards Vaccaro’s Trattoria One of the area’s best kept Italian secrets. 1000 Ghent Road (Montrose) 330-666-6158 $$$$ L, D, A, T Valley Café Mother/daughter-owned business with delicious home cooking, friendly service and famous cabbage soup. 1212 Weathervane Lane (Merriman Valley) 330-865-0101 $ B, L, T No credit cards The Valley Inn This one-time country roadhouse has been transformed into a family hot-spot. The prime rib is gigantic. 15004 Portage St. (Doylestown) 330-658-9859 $$$ L, D, A, T VegiTerranean Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Chrissie Hynde’s award-winning vegetarian restaurant, which also features a coffee house and bakery. Northside Lofts (Downtown Akron) 330-374-5550 $$$ L, D, A, T, V VirtuesFeatures signature foods such as a tempura calamari appetizer, roasted pear and arugala salad, specialty pizzas, grilled scallops, filet mignon, other gourmet items with high nutritional values. 525 E. Market St. (in Akron City Hospital’s Ann and David Brennan CCU) 330375-7444 $$$ L, D, A, T, V V-Li’s Cuisine Thai dishes. 129 N. Canal St. (Canal Fulton) 330-854-5344 $$ L, D, A, T Wally Waffle Quaint breakfast place, perfect for Sunday brunch. 338 Locust St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-762-3388, 750 Darrow Road (Tallmadge) 330-633-7400 $ B, L, T Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse A sensational hibachi steakhouse and sushi bar. Chefs prepare spectacular displays of food right before your eyes. 150 Montrose West Ave. (Copley) 330-666-5522 $$$$ L, D, T Waterloo Restaurant Eclectic menu. Famous for the Waterloo Big Apple and the French onion soup. 423 E. Waterloo Road (Akron: South) 330-773-5158 $$ B, L, D, T West Market Grille in Tangier Restaurant and nightclub occasionally featuring live entertainment from around the country. Elaborate décor. Quality steaks and seafood. 532 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-3767171, 800-826-4437 $$$$ D, A, T, V West Side Bakery In addition to cookies, pastries and cakes, this bakery also carries a variety of breakfast items including scones, muffins and yogurt parfaits. Sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups served at lunch. 2303 W. Market St. (Akron: Pilgrim’s Square) 330-836-4101 $ B, L, T Whitey’s Booze N’ Burgers Famous chili, generous portions, live entertainment on the weekends.

3600 Brecksville Road (Richfield) 330-659-3600 $$ L, D, A No credit cards Wild Goats Coffee & Café Offers light entrees, vegan and vegetarian soups, exceptional coffee. 1708 E. Main St. (Kent) 330-677-2326 $$ B, L, D, T Winking Lizard Come to see the lizard, stay for the extensive beer selection and outdoor patio. 25 Ghent Road (Fairlawn) 330-836-6129, 1615 Main St. (Peninsula) 330467-1002, 5710 Fulton Drive NW (Canton) 330-497-1133 $$$ L, D, A, T Yellowtail Japanese-style seafood and sushi buffet. 4054 Medina Road (Montrose) 330-666-9988 $$$$ L, D, A, T Yocono’s Homey, Italian restaurant with reasonable prices. 1666 W. Exchange St. (Akron: West) 330-8675550 $$ B, L, D, A, T No credit cards Please send any changes or corrections to editor@ bakermediagroup.com.

f you’re like most people, you ask around before trying something new: “I’ve got guests coming in from out of town. Where do you think I should take them?”

“Have you tried their hummos?”

“I’m looking for a new dry cleaner. Anybody know a good one?”

Few things have more credibility than a recommendation from a friend.

That’s why we’re hoping you’ll think of our “Best of Akron” winners as recommendations… from a few thousand friends.

Use this section to try something different, break out of your old routine or find a new favorite of your own. Then, pass it on. Because good things like the “Best of Akron” are worth sharing.

Playing Favorites Readers recommend Akron’s Best.

Best Place to Volunteer Humane Society of Greater Akron

Best Place to Volunteer Humane Society of Greater Akron

A

nimals have certainly won the hearts of our readers, as well as the community as a whole.

According to Kristine Shock, director of community relations for the Humane Society of Greater Akron, the organization has 600 volunteers on record. Of those, about 200 volunteer actively, which means giving at least 20 hours of time per year.

What’s more impressive are the top volunteers, who donate 600 hours of their time a year. That averages out to almost 20 hours per week!

Volunteer duties run the gamut.

They can include everything from hands-on interaction with the animals to less emotionally taxing tasks such as organizing events like the group’s rummage sales or other fundraisers. “I really believe we’ve got something for everyone, as long as you’re an animal lover,” Shock says.

Pictured on the previous page are volunteer Heather Kinaitis and Dudley, a 4-year-old bulldog, American Staffordshire terrier, boxer mix. Kinaitis, a student at Univeristy of Akron, has volunteered with the Humane Society for a little over a year. Dudley has been at the shelter for two years. If you’re interested in giving this little fella a loving home, call the Humane Society at 330-4870333 or click the Adoptable Animals link at summithumane.org. The website also lists volunteer guidelines along with a volunteer application. * Note: Any time you’re looking for a specific type of pet, Shock recommends using the website petfinder. com. You can search for rescue animals by type, within a set radius from your home.—KL

36

Akron Life & Leisure

Entertainment

Best Hiking Trail First Place: Towpath Trail Runner-up: Brandywine Gorge Trail Honorable Mention: Adam Run Trail

Best Local Landmark First Place: Stan Hywet Runner-up: Goodyear Airdock Honorable Mention: Indian in the Valley

Best Front 9 First Place: Firestone Country Club Runner-up: J.E. Good Park Golf Course Honorable Mention: Brookledge Golf Club

Best Local Sports Team First Place: Cleveland Cavaliers Runner-up: Akron Aeros Honorable Mention: Rubber City Roller Girls, UA Zips

Best Place for Live Music First Place: Musica Runner-up: Lock 3 Park Honorable Mention: Northside Bar & Grille

Best Live Theater First Place: Weathervane Playhouse Runner-up: Akron Civic Theatre Honorable Mention: E.J. Thomas Hall

Services

Best Women’s Hair Salon First Place: MC Hair Consultants Runner-up: Gavin Scott Salon & Spa Honorable Mention: Bessay

Best Barber First Place: Pilgrim Square Barber Shop Runner-up: Mel’s Barber Shop Honorable Mention: Fairlawn Plaza Barber Shop

Best Massage First Place: Gavin Scott Salon & Spa Runner-up: MC Hair Consultants Honorable Mention: Connecting Touch

July 2010

Best Hummos Aladdin’s Eatery

M

aking three gallons of hummos a day may seem like quite an undertaking, but it’s all in a day’s work for Aladdin’s Eatery owner Marwan Lahham and his staff.

“Our hummos is so popular that we have to make new hummos every day, especially in the summertime,” Lahham says.

When ordered as an appetizer, Aladdin’s hummos is served with pita. Lahham says this spread can be paired with everything from the falafel to chicken and beef plates— but most people pair it with Aladdin’s hot sauce.

“Hummos and hot sauce really go hand in hand,” he says. “About 95 percent of my customers ask for that.”

But what’s the key to their hummos’ success? Well, there are a few.

First, the dish’s two main ingredients, chickpeas and tahini (a sesamebased paste), are shipped overseas from Lebanon. Next, Lahham says a great deal of care goes into the almost three-hour process of preparing the hummos.

“We do have a recipe book, and all of our employees open up the book and follow it, step by step—even though we know it by heart,” he says. “We are extremely consistent, and that’s why the hummos always tastes the same.”

Lahham says that providing the recipe book, which is identical at every Aladdin’s location, would not enable someone to duplicate the franchise’s hummos. “Even cooking the chickpeas is really an art,” he claims.

Hummus or hummos?

English spellings can be inconsistent with many Arabic words.

Because Aladdin’s use the hummos spelling on their menu, we chose to follow their lead.

July 2010

When it comes down to it, Lahham and his wife, Nora, just have the interest of their customers in mind.

“We don’t take any chances,” he says.

“We want our customers to have the best.”—DW

Akron Life & Leisure

37

Vitals Opened in 1959 on the second floor above Isaly’s.

Moved to 150 N. Main St. in 1962.

Named by original owners Pris & Ash Graham and Patty & Stewart Coulton.

The Grey Colt is participating in Hudson’s annual sidewalk sale, July 15-18.

Best Upscale Boutique The Grey Colt

T

he Grey Colt, just across the street from the clock tower in downtown Hudson, couldn’t be in a more perfect location for its carefully cultivated clientele. Voted by our readers as Best Upscale Boutique, it celebrated its 50th anniversary last year.

Owner Katie Coulton grew up in the shop known for traditional clothing with flair. The flair’s still there, but “we’ve gotten a little bit away from tradition,” she says.

In doing so, she has created a place where women of all ages can find something that suits them.

38

Akron Life & Leisure

Dressing is a little trickier in the age of layering, Coulton says. Her store translates that trend in a way that works for more women. She encourages her customers to be open to what’s new. Jeggings (jean leggings) paired with boots and “the whole tunic thing,” which evolved to cover the gap between shorter tops and low-rise bottoms, are two recent examples.

Coulton buys directly from international and domestic designers to fill her store with unique finds each season. She looks for pieces that will last and that offer something

July 2010

different from what you’d find in a ‘corporate’ store.

“We know our customers,” Coulton says. “They cross ages, they like clothes and they like to look put together.”

At the same time, they like the comfortable, personal feel of a shop where long-term employees are like family. One employee, a new mom, brings her baby, Coco, into work with her and customers love it. “We try to make it fun,” Coulton says.—JD

Best Florist First Place: The Greenhouse Runner-up: Pam’s Posies Honorable Mention: Richard’s Florist

Best Childcare First Place: YMCA (Multiple locations) Runner-up: KinderCare® Learning Centers Honorable Mention: Shaw JCC

Best Hot Fudge Sundae First Place: Mary Coyle Runner-up: Strickland’s Honorable Mention: Handel’s

Best Bakery First Place: West Side Bakery Runner-up: Crest Bakery Honorable Mention: West Point Market

Restaurants

Best Appetizers

Best Hamburger

First Place: Bricco Runner-up: Beau’s Grille Honorable Mention: Crave

First Place: Swenson’s Runner-up: Metro Burger Honorable Mention: Louie’s

Best Pizza First Place: Luigi’s Runner-up: Gionino’s Honorable Mention: Pizza BOGO

Best Sandwich First Place: Mr. Zub’s Runner-up: Primo’s Honorable Mention: Diamond Deli

Best Soup & Salad First Place: West Point Market Runner-up: Rockne’s Honorable Mention: Aladdin’s Best Chain: Panera

Best Dessert First Place: West Side Bakery Runner-up: West Point Market Honorable Mention: Main Street Cupcakes

Best Lasagna First Place: Papa Joe’s Runner-up: Luigi’s Honorable Mention: Parasson’s

Best Tacos First Place: Mariachi Loco’s Runner-up: Taco Tanto’s Honorable Mention: Mariachi Coco, Azteca Best Chain: Chipotle

Best Sushi First Place: House of Hunan Runner-up: Sakura Honorable Mention: Wasabi

Best Curry First Place: Saffron Patch Runner-up: Pad Thai Honorable Mention: Raj Mahal

Best Facial First Place: MC Hair Consultants Runner-up: Gavin Scott Salon & Spa Honorable Mention: Mario’s International

Best Pet Groomer First Place: Celebrity Pets Runner-up: Wizard of Paws Honorable Mention: Doggy Go Go

Best Jeweler First Place: Kimberly Jewelery Runner-up: Jewelry Art Honorable Mention: Family Treasures Best Chain: Jared

Best Dry Cleaner First Place: Champlin’s Runner-up: City Laundry Honorable Mention: The Fussy Cleaners

Best Sandwich Mr. Zub’s

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Mancuso July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

39

Best Hummos First Place: Aladdin’s Runner-up: Mustard Seed Café Honorable Mentions: Vine Valley, Wafa’s

Best Steak First Place: Diamond Grille Runner-up: Ken Stewart’s Grille Honorable Mention: Lannings Best Chains: Fleming’s, Hyde Park

Best Fine Dining First Place: Ken Stewart’s Grille Runner-up: Lanning’s Honorable Mention: Downtown 140 Best Chain: Fleming’s

Best Breakfast First Place: Michael’s AM Runner-up: Akron Family Restaurant, Wally Waffle Honorable Mention: Sweet Pea Café Best Chain: First Watch

Best Hot Fudge Sundae Mary Coyle

Best Coffee First Place: Angel Falls Runner-up: Nervous Dog Honorable Mention: West Side Bakery Best Chain: Starbucks

Best Ladies Room Akron Civic Theater

Best Steak Diamond Grille

Best Late Night Dining Luigi’s

Akr

ife

L

July 2010

Best Beers on Tap

Best Cheap Eats

Shopping

First Place: Winking Lizard Runner-up: 69 Taps Honorable Mention: On Tap, The Lockview

First Place: Swenson’s Runner-up: Parasson’s Honorable Mention: The Lockview

Best Upscale Boutique

Best Winery

Best Late Night Dining

First Place: The Winery at Wolf Creek Runner-up: Sarah’s Vineyard Honorable Mention: Viking Vineyards & Winery

First Place: Luigi’s Runner-up: Larry’s Main Entrance Honorable Mention: Mr. Zub’s, Bricco

Best Outdoor Patio Best Happy Hour First Place: Bricco Runner-up: Brubaker’s Honorable Mention: Winking Lizard

First Place: Beau’s Grille Runner-up: Blue Canyon Honorable Mention: Sarah’s Vineyard

First Place: Grey Colt Runner-up: In Style Accessories Honorable Mention: D’Ora

Best Urban Boutique First Place: Noto Runner-up: Revival Honorable Mention: Made in Akron/Rubber City Clothing Co.

Best Bookstore First Place: Learned Owl Runner-up: The Bookseller Best Chain: Border’s

Best Dry Cleaner Champlin’s Cleaners

T

his local dry cleaner has been caring for Akron residents’ clothing for more than 20 years, with locations first in Highland Square and now Fairlawn as well. Lisa Huaang has owned and managed the stores for the past 12 years, and has got-

July 2010

ten to know many of the customers by name. She loves meeting various types of people in the Highland Square neighborhood. “This neighborhood reminds me of New York’s SOHO,” she says. “That is where I come from.” —KL

Akron Life & Leisure

43

Best Local Band Freez-R-Burn

W

hat started as a family jam session in 1992, later developed into the Freez-R-Burn you know today. The current band members—Jim Thomas (vocals and percussion), Paul McCoy (vocals and bass guitar), Kevin Pahlau (drums), Kevin Thomas (vocals, sound and percussion) and Brian Thomas (vocals and

guitar)—have been playing together since 2004.

For these guys, it’s all about the rock.

“We’ve been described as roots rock, but I’m not sure what that means,” Brian Thomas says. Key influences include The Rolling Stones and R.E.M.—pretty much anything that

relies heavily on electric guitar, bass and drums. However, the band covers everyone from classics like Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly to modern hit-makers like The Killers.

Though Freez-R-Burn gladly plays fan favorites by other artists, the members really enjoy writing their own songs.

They released an album with six original tracks in 2007, and they hope to put out a full-length release in the next year. “We want to continue to write,” Brian explains. “It’s really gratifying to have songs come together.”

Of course, the real rush of being in a band comes when it’s time to take the stage. Being a true garage band, all the guys have jobs and families, so Freez-R-Burn only performs about 1015 shows a year, often for fundraisers.

“We enjoy the opportunity to play (for a crowd),” Brian says.

While he believes “every stage is a good stage,” as a performer, Brian is partial to Musica. “It’s a club that’s about the music,” he says. “Not a bar that happens to have a stage; it’s a stage that happens to have a bar.”

The question that’s likely on most people’s mind, though, is where did the name Freez-R-Burn come from?

A couple of reasons: “One was that we used to practice in a barn. We would play year-round, and it was either sweltering hot in the summer or freezing cold in the winter – freeze or burn,” Brian explains, adding that it also seemed that at the time the band covered a lot of songs that had hot/ cold themes.

While you can learn more about the band at freezrburn.com, Brian says fans can find the most updated information on their Facebook page.

Simply type Freez-R-Burn in the Facebook search.—KL

4

Akron Life & Leisure

y 2010

Best Barber Shop Pilgrim Square Barber

I

n a world where unisex hair salons and spas far outnumber barber shops, the laid-back, masculine atmosphere at the Pilgrim Square Barber Shop is a tonic—a special treat for men and boys.

Customers who frequent Jack Bradley’s place like knowing they can come in for a good haircut or hot shave at a fair price. (Haircuts are $14; hot shaves go for $20.)

“A lot of people just walk in from the neighborhood,” Bradley says. Local doctors and lawyers, coaches, CEOs and retirees are regulars. Lots of dads visit the shop with their sons.

There’s a clever blend of old and new at the three-chair shop. Sears Craftsman tool chests store razors, scissors and other grooming supplies. The barbers use air compressors to blow snippets of hair off customers’ necks. A central vac helps keep their cutting floor clean.

Bradley purposely avoided installing a television in his place so customers would be more likely to interact. They talk about sports and local politics. They share news about airfare deals or what’s happening in the neighborhood.

On a typical morning at the West Akron shop, jazz plays in the background, sports writer Terry Pluto stops by early, and firefighter Rich Chianocone comes in with his 5-year-old son Guido. They talk about St. Hilary School’s dress code and Acme’s “griller thriller” steaks while Guido gets his haircut.

Bradley recalls the day a Miami businessman arrived at his front door in a limousine. He found the barber shop on the Internet and came in for a hot shave—a low-priced luxury currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity.

Old-style service with a neighborly touch still rules at the Pilgrim Square Barber Shop voted Akron’s best by our readers this year.—JD

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

45

Best Front Nine Firestone Country Club

I

f you’re fortunate enough to play a round of golf at Firestone Country Club’s South Course, you’ll notice it is as well manicured for you as it is for the pros. The Greens are kept in tournament condition, day in and day out.

Created as a recreational course for Firestone Tire employees in 1929, this haven for golfers has only gotten better with age.

The Club has “really evolved over time,” Steve Carter, FCC director of golf, says. “We are fortunate to have enough real estate to expand the tees back and keep the course relevant,” he explains. “The neat thing is

(the South Course where the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational is held) is still one of the toughest courses to play on the PGA tour.”

The famous Front 9 on the South Course starts at the Clubhouse. The first two holes give golfers a good warm up. These long but straightforward holes (with a par 4 and par 5, respectively) precede a very serious stretch to follow. Holes 3-6 are a tremendous test for golfers requiring long drives and good accurate iron shots to avoid the deep bunkering on both sides of the greens. Holes 7-9 turn back toward the Clubhouse,

requiring golfers to adjust their shots to the change in wind direction.

Playing the 9th hole is a real rush.

Because the 55th Hole lounge overlooking the course offers a great view, “there’s always a gallery watching you,” Carter says. “That’s the hole where Tiger Woods hit the ball over the Clubhouse roof a couple years back.”

No wonder it’s our readers’ favorite.—JD

Did you know?

Most members prefer the scenic North Course at FCC. Guests always want to play the South Course, fondly known as “The Monster”—just to say they did it.

The link-style West Course, redesigned in 2001, is tighter and has smaller greens than the other two.

ClubCorp USA (which owns and operates FCC) also maintains the Raymond C. Firestone Golf Course—a 9-hole public course on Swartz Road.

Firestone’s first PGA Tour event was the Rubber City Open in 1954.

Best Art Gallery

Best Furniture Store

Miscellaneous

First Place: Don Drumm Studios & Gallery Runner-up: Akron Art Museum Honorable Mention: Akrona, WE Gallery

First Place: Wayside Furniture Runner-up: Chez-Del Honorable Mention: Dimitroff’s Furniture & Design Best Chain: Arhaus

Best Yoga Classes

Best Kids’ Store First Place: Thinker Toys Runner-up: Tadpoles & Tiddlers Honorable Mention: My Little Red Wagon

Best Specialty Store

Best Natural Food Market First Place: Mustard Seed Market Runner-up: Krieger’s Honorable Mention: West Point Market

First Place: West Point Market Runner-up: Off the Wagon, Don Drumm Studios & Gallery Honorable Mention: Blimp City Bike & Hike

46

Akron Life & Leisure

First Place: Cuyahoga Falls Natatorium Runner-up: Yoga Lounge Honorable Mention: Free Akron Yoga

Best Radio Station First Place: 91.3 WAPS Runner-up: 100.1 WNIR Honorable Mention: 94.9 WQMX

Best Radio Personality First Place: Howie Chizek Runner-up: Heather Burns Honorable Mention: Bob Golic July 2010

Best massage Gavin Scott Salon and Spa Just two years young, Gavin Scott Salon and Spa in Stow already has a loyal following. The upscale salon with the laid back feel earned first place in our reader poll for Best Massage. It also came in second in the Women’s Hair Salon and Facial categories.

What’s their secret? Co-owners Anne Davis and Kristie Warner say they made a conscious decision to keep services affordable without skimping on extras. They treat customers to a complimentary hand and arm massage, complimentary head massages with shampoos and snacks like fresh peanuts and candy.

“We believe the more you give, the more you get,” Warner says.

Gavin Scott’s massage therapist is available Monday and Wednesday evenings and Saturdays by appointment. One-hour, full-body massages are $40. Sports massages (90 minutes) are $75, and pregnancy massages are $65.

Relaxation facials are their customers’ most popular choice for pampering. The salon also made Fox 8’s “Hot List” for best color this year.—JD

Who is Gavin Scott?

Gavin Scott Salon and Spa got its name from coowner Anne Davis’ son.

When the salon celebrated its second anniversary in March, customers showered the real Gavin (who will be four in September) with presents.

Best Place for Live Music Musica

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

47

Best Radio Personality Howie Chizek

H

owie Chizek is not about shocking listeners, but he does work to keep them entertained. The selfproclaimed creator of ‘buffet style programming,’ Chizek decides which 10 or 12 controversial subjects to put on the table each day. He lets his audience choose which ones they want to talk about.

Chizek can rant and harangue with the best of ‘em, but he vents with a purpose in mind. “I try to get the subject under your fingernails… under your skin,” he says.

Whether he’s talking about major problems or petty annoyances, Howie Chizek says a great show is one where he loses himself in the discussions, and the hours fly by.

Vitals: On the air at WNIR-FM 100.1 since 1974

•

On improving the state’s economy, Chizek suggests lowering the gambling age in Ohio to 19 to attract more out-of-state college kids.

•

On the last presidential election, Chizek calls the democratic spoiler “a scandalous piece of crap.”

•

On how to avoid getting scammed, he tells listeners “The best thing you can do when you go to bed is turn off the phone. If somebody died, they’ll still be dead in the morning.”

Akron callers are reluctant to talk about issues that hit too close to home. “Other people’s troubles” seem to be more popular, he says. Only two people called in to discuss the Fair Finance scandal when Chizek brought it up.

Plenty of callers had something to say about a similar scandal in Warren a few days later.

Show airs weekdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m.-noon

“And people are always happy to talk about LeBron,” he adds.

Six days a week, for nearly 40 years, listeners have been tuning in to hear Chizek. His show has been at or near number one for decades among the 2549 demographic. This year, readers’ chose Chizek as our area’s “Best Radio Personality.”-JD

Best Place to Volunteer

Best Ladies Room

Best Bargain

First Place: Humane Society of Greater Akron Runner-up: Akron Children’s Hospital Honorable Mention: Metro Parks, Serving Summit County

First Place: Akron Civic Theatre Runner-up: Ken Stewart’s Grille Honorable Mention: Vegiterranean

First Place: Village Discount Outlet Runner-up: Marc’s, Gabriel Brothers Honorable Mention: T.J. Maxx

Best Local Blog

Best Neighborhood

First Place: Rubber City BullSheet Runner-up: Have I Got News for You (Eric Mansfield)

First Place: Highland Square Runner-up: Fairlawn Heights Honorable Mention: North Hill

Best Local Performer First Place: Freez-R-Burn Runner-up: Black Keys Honorable Mention: Ryan Humbert

48

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Ohio’s Young Wines

Coming of age right in our own backyard

S

hort growing seasons, a cool climate and harsh winters have been challenges for Ohio’s winemakers since Cincinnati lawyer Nicholas Longworth planted the first Catawba grapes here in 1820.

But when it comes to growing grapes in cool climates, Ohio is in good company.

Northern France, Germany, Austria, Washington and Oregon are cool climate regions, too.

Growers in Ohio have found many sites where the microclimate and soil conditions are perfect for growing grapes. Some of the best areas are nearby on the southern shores of Lake Erie and on the Lake Erie islands.

No longer just known for sweet and fruity offerings, Ohio vintners are producing a wider variety of wines than ever. What they lack in snob appeal, they more than make up for in persistence and creativity. As a result, more and more Ohio wines are gaining quality designations and winning regional and international awards.

There are few estate wineries—those whose wines are made predominantly from grapes grown on their own property. Most create wines by blending their own grapes with those grown at other vineyards in Ohio or from other regions or states.

Northeast Ohio has more vineyards than any other area of the state and a growing number are in Summit, Stark and Portage counties.

by Jane Day and Kristin Lindsey

What kinds of wines can you expect from the wineries right here in your own backyard? Here are a few worth sampling: The Winery at Wolf Creek

The Winery at Wolf Creek in Norton has been around since 1980. It sold its first bottle of wine in June of 1985. The winery continued to grow and add to its selection of estate-grown wines until the original owner, Andrew Wineberg, died in 2000.

Two years later, longtime vineyard manager Andy Troutman and his wife, Deanna, bought Wolf Creek. Since that time, they have expanded production and vineyard acreage and continue to offer a selection of mostly Ohio-grown wines. They also own and operate Troutman Vineyards, in Wooster, which specializes solely in estate and locally grown wines.

Wolf Creek currently produces six white wines, seven red or rosés, and four different fruit wines. Three of their whites—Rhapsody, Vignoles and Pinot Gris—have earned multiple awards (including Gold and Double Gold awards for Rhapsody.) All three are designated as Ohio Quality Wines.

Wolf Creek’s dry red Syrah won a 2009 Ohio Wine Silver award.

Sarah’s Vineyard

Mike and Margaret Lytz planted their first grapes at Sarah’s Vineyard in the spring of 2003, and they still have plenty of land on which to grow.

Because their vines are seven years old now and they escaped some of the frost that hit Northeast Ohio along the lake this spring, “Mike thinks we’re gonna have a great crop this year,” Margaret says.

As a Cuyahoga Valley Countryside Conservancy member, Sarah’s produces nine different wines including a variety of dry reds, a semi-dry Riesling, a dry Chardonnay made with California grapes and a sweet blueberry wine using 100 percent Michigan blueberries. Even though most of the fruit comes from other regions, everything is crushed, blended and aged right at the Cuyahoga Falls winery.

While Sarah’s blueberry wine is bottled, the others are served on tap straight from the wine cellar beneath the dining room.

Because Mike doesn’t bottle his wine, he has no need to boost sulfite levels to preserve it. For some customers, this has meant less of a tendency toward headaches common after drinking wine.

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

49

Wine from Sarah’s is only sold at the vineyard, and bottled wine (in the same lower sulfite varieties) is available to go.

Mike practices sustainable methods in growing his grapes. He started using new composting methods with food waste and leaves (no synthetic fertilizer) last year and is pleased with the results.

Gervasi Vineyard

Gervasi Vineyard opened in March, and in those few short months has garnered a lot of attention. Owner Ted Swaldo and his family operate the vineyard, which includes an Italian bistro (where the wine tasting takes place).

Viking Vineyards & Winery Kent, Ohio vikingvineyards.com

Despite being the family’s first attempt at winemaking, Gervasi wines are earning praise for some of the most discerning wine drinkers. For now, Gervasi regularly carries nine wines—five whites, three reds and a rosé.

While the Swaldos wait for the newly planted vines to mature, their grapes are being sourced from California, Washington, Oregon and Ohio. Of the wines listed above, all the whites (with the exception of the rose, Romanza) are made using Ohio grapes.

Debonné Vineyards Madison, Ohio debonne.com

Traminette Vintner’s Select Gold Indianapolis International Ohio Wine Quality Designation

Grand River Cellars Madison, Ohio grandrivercellars.com 2008 Ice Wine Express Double GoldTasters Guild International

2008 Riesling Double Gold - Best of the Appellation

Double Gold - Ohio Wine Competition

Bronze International Eastern

Gold - Pacific Rim International Gold - Finger Lakes International

Silver - Ohio Wine Competition

Bronze - Florida State Fair International

Gold - Riverside International Gold - Great Lakes International

The Winery at Perennial Vineyards Navarre, Ohio perennialvineyards.com

The Winery at Perennial Vineyards Navarre, Ohio perennialvineyards.com

2009 Vidal Blanc

2009 Flowers

Silver Finger Lakes International

Bronze Finger Lakes International

Bronze Ohio Wine Competition

50

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Silver Moon Winery Dover, Ohio silvermoonwinery.com Strawberry Blond Wine provided by The Unexpected in Akron, Ohio

A Wine-Drinking Generation Why today’s 20- to 30-somethings are opting for a more sophisticated drinking experience.

by Denise Wright

F

or Heidi and Hanna Gerlosky, now 26 and 21 respectively, drinking wine as children was no big deal. In fact, their parents encouraged it. “If the girls wanted some when they were young, we’d pour them a little bit,” says Wes Gerlosky, their father and founder of Harpersfield Vineyard in Geneva.

As a commercial wine grower, offering wine in the home just seemed fitting for Wes. “Growing the grapes and making the wine was part of our life, so it would logically be part of our meal time,” he continues.

How far we’ve come

Wine used to be something people treated themselves to while eating dinner or visiting big cities. Nowadays, 20- and 30somethings are drinking wine from a box and usually (gasp!) not during dinner. They don’t have to travel to New York City to get a decent bottle of wine—they can pick one up at Giant Eagle. So what is it about our new favorite alcoholic drink that created the buzz for the younger generation in the first place?

Tony Carlucci, an enologist and geography instructor at Kent State University, has a theory, and it links back to people like Wes Gerlosky. “By 2000 or 2001, (college) students were kind of the first generation where their parents drank wine,” he says. “They grew up seeing somebody at home drink wine. That made them more curious about it.”

Carlucci says he’ll often ask his students to raise their hands if they grew up in a home where wine was served routinely. “Years ago, it was 10 percent; now, it’s 60 to 80 percent,” he says. “I think that’s the big factor in why there are more Generation Y drinkers.”

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

51

Ohio Quality Wine

European Varieties & American Hybrids

The Ohio Quality Wine program enables consumers to easily identify Ohio’s premier quality wines.

The most familiar European wine varieties, such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio are grown in Ohio. Native American grapes like Catawba, Niagara and Delaware are still grown here, too. In the 19th and 20th centuries, vine hybrids were developed to combine the hardiness of native vines with the wine qualities of the European. Well-known hybrids include Vidal, Seyval and Chambourcin. All are grown in Ohio.

The OQW program is open only to Ohio wines that are produced with at least 90 percent Ohio-grown grapes that have passed sensory and chemical analysis. Be sure to look for the OQW seal or go to tasteohiowines.com for a complete list of OQW award-winners.

Klingshirn Winery Avon Lake, Ohio klingshirnwine.com

Gervasi Vineyard Canton, Ohio gervasivineyard.com

Klingshirn Winery Avon Lake, Ohio klingshirnwine.com Haut Sauterne Gold - Ohio Wine Competition

Pink Catawba Gold - 2010 Ohio wine Concordance and Best of Class

Terra Cotta Vineyards New Concord, Ohio terracottavineyards.com

Seyval Bronze - Ohio Wine Competition

Brothers Drake Meadery Columbus, Ohio brothersdrake.com

Truscano Sangiovese American

Southern Belle Silver - Finger Lakes International Pillow Talk Bronze - Finger Lakes International Apple Pie Silver - Finger Lakes International

52

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Ice wines Ice wine originated in Germany in the late 18th century when grapes would freeze on the vine. Today, some of the world’s best ice wines come from the wine regions around the Great Lakes, including Ohio’s Lake Erie wine appellation. Freezing concentrates the flavors and sugars in the grapes and produces delicate, sweet dessert wines.

,MTMJZI\M TQNM @PMZM =][KIVa IVL 7IXI ?ITTMa 6MM\ 7WZ\PM 8PQW NWZ I 6MUW .`XMZ

The French paradox

Carlucci contributes the wine-drinking surge of parents in the ‘90s to a November 1991 broadcast on CBS’s “60 Minutes.” The segment came to be known as the French paradox, and it stated that a diet of cheese, chocolate and wine was linked to better cardiovascular health. “I think once people started understanding that wine, in moderation, is healthy for you, it just seemed like everyone started drinking wine,” Carlucci says. “And America has not looked back.”

L

UI 4USFFU /& t $BOUPO 0IJP

JOGP!HFSWBTJWJOFZBSE DPN t XXX HFSWBTJWJOFZBSE DPN

Instead America has moved forward—in its wine consumption and also in its wine knowledge. “Ten or 12 years ago when I started the (KSU) workshops, we drank all sweet wines, and (the students) knew nothing about wine, per se,” Carlucci says. “Today, they’re drinking Chardonnay. They’re drinking Merlot.

They’re drinking dry wines. Some (students) are new, but you have a lot of students today who know more about wine than the students 12 years ago. The difference is absolutely amazing.”

927(' )2; +27 /,67 :,11(5 <($56 ,1 $ 52:

Habits of today’s wine drinkers

Mario Vitale, wine department manager at West Point Market, agrees. “When you think about, say, your parents’ generation or maybe grandparents’ generation, spirits was more the thing,” he says. “But as time went on, you saw more and more people drinking wine.” He adds, however, there’s “no question” younger generations are moving toward wine as opposed to spirits.

“I see a lot of young kids today who are very curious about wine,” he states. “They want to learn, and they’re pretty aggressive. They really do come in and ask questions and really want to see what’s going on.”

MLLQ

Wine Tasting )ULGD\V ² 6DWXUGD\V ²

Hours:

0RQ ² 7XHV )UL ² 6DW ²

‘Best Wine Shop’ in Akron / Canton

7RZQ 3DUN %OYG *UHHQ 2+ RU LQIR#WKHXQH[SHFWHG EL]

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

53

HEALTH&WELLNESS

Taking the Sting Out of Summer Plan ahead to keep seasonal pests from spoiling your fun.

L

iving in Northeast Ohio makes us all realize that sunshine and blue skies are not to be taken for granted. But where there is summer, there are bugs. And where there are bugs, there are bites and stings. To keep them from spoiling your warm-weather fun, remember these common sense tips.

Removing a tick • Protect your hands to avoid spreading pathogens.

• Using tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull gently until the tick comes free. (Don’t twist or turn the tick. This could break off its head and increase the chance of infection.)

Beating the biters Mosquitoes • Eliminate areas of standing water in your yard. Clogged gutters, wading pools and birdbaths are natural breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

• Plant repellent herbs like geranium, lemon balm, catnip, basil, lemon thyme and lemongrass.

• Burn candles with aromatic oils like citronella, or use spray machines that release those oils into the air over time.

• Try natural repellents with soybean oil or lemon eucalyptus, which supposedly protect against mosquitoes for about 90 minutes.

• If you’re going out into the woods or going out at night, wear long-sleeved lightweight shirts, pants and shoes.

• When you need to use chemical repellents like DEET, protect your eyes and nose from absorbing ambient spray and spray your pant legs, shoes or other articles of clothing to minimize direct contact on skin. Protect young children, and bathe as soon as possible to remove toxic residues.

• Clean bites with mild soap and water, pat them dry and resist the urge to scratch. If you can’t resist rubbing or scratching, try mixing two parts baking soda to one part water and applying the paste directly onto the bite. An ice pack 54

Akron Life & Leisure

(or even a cold can of soda or bottled water) can soothe bites, too.

• Try applying aloe vera gel, which cools and forms a protective layer. Calamine lotion or topical anesthetics and antiinflammatories like ibuprofen can help reduce swelling.

• Because mosquitoes can carry diseases like West Nile or encephalitis, contact your doctor is you begin to experience headaches, fever, vomiting, chills or muscle aches.

Ticks Most tick bites are probably harmless.

Ticks that have never fed, if handled properly, will not cause any problems.

The earlier a tick is removed, the less likely it will transmit disease.

• Check for ticks after spending time in woodsy areas, and make sure to remove them from the skin as soon as possible.

Deer ticks that transmit Lyme disease are so small that they may be nearly undetectable.

• Localized reactions to tick bites include redness, itching and burning. Symptoms from illnesses transmitted by ticks may not show up until days or weeks after you are bitten.

July 2010

• Clean the bite area with soap and water or a mild disinfectant. Apply antibiotic cream and watch the bite for development of a rash or other reaction.

• Once removed, don’t crush the tick, rinse it down a sink or flush it down a toilet. Keep it in a tightly closed jar or taped to a piece of paper to show to your doctor if you should become ill.

• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the tick. Clean and disinfect any instruments you used. Remaining portions of the tick should be removed by a doctor.

Treatments for tick bites range from Benadryl to oral antibiotics. Detailed blood tests, IV medications and even hospital stays may be necessary for more serious or late-treated infections.

If you live in a tick-infested area and have experienced a fever within the last two months, you should not donate blood.

Outsmarting bees and other stingers Preventing bites • Pay attention to where you’re walking and wear shoes instead of sandals in grassy areas since clover and other flowering ground covers are hot spots for pollinating bees.

• Avoid wearing perfume or heavily scented soaps outdoors and opt for drab

(not bright) colored clothing—all things that will make you less attractive to bees and wasps.

• Fast movements, like swinging your arms, can provoke a wasp to sting. Tough as it seems, it’s better to wait calmly for the insect to fly away on its own or gently push it off your arm with a piece of paper.

• Yellowjackets especially are attracted to food. To keep them from spoiling your next picnic, keep food covered, clean up spills quickly and have a fly-swatter nearby. Be especially careful with open cans of soda. Check them before drinking directly from the can or stuff a napkin in the opening to keep pests out.

Treating a sting • It’s important to remove the stinger— the sooner, the better—to try to minimize the toxins that enter your body.

• Clean the site of the sting with rubbing alcohol or soap and water to prevent infection. Apply a paste of meat tenderizer and water or use white toothpaste to neutralize the venom and help reduce future swelling and pain.

Advanced Care makes all the Difference 3807 Brecksville Rd Suite 5 Richfield, OH 44286 info@elegantdentistry.com www.elegantdentistry.com 330-659-2395

July 2010

ELEGANT DENTISTRY David Wiedie, D.D.S. General Dentist

Akron Life & Leisure

55

• Over-the-counter antihistamines like Benydryl also reduce swelling, and antiinflammatories like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can ease the pain.

Exercise is a useful tool in easing pain and physical limitation, but best results are achieved when combined with proper nutrition and prescribed medications.

The best medicine for pain is

knowledge.

We will teach you: – Exercise for strength and mobility.

Most insurance plans accepted with no referral necessary.

– Nutrition for improved health and healing.

Care is coordinated with your doctor.

– Self management, so you can take control.

Call for an assessment today, to live life to its fullest!

• Use ice packs to minimize swelling and numb the itch. Calamine lotion helps relieve itching, too.

For more severe reactions • Watch closely for itching, redness, hives or shortness of breath—which can be signs of anaphylaxis (life-threatening hypersensitivities.) Benadryl can slow an anaphylactic reaction, but will not stop it.

• If someone has been stung more than 10 times or if they’ve been stung inside the nose, mouth or throat, a visit to the ER is in order.

• If you’re with someone who has a known allergy to stings, don’t wait for their symptoms to appear. Help them find and use their epinephrine auto-injector, EpiPen, immediately or call 9-1-1.

PH Y S I C A L TH E R A P I S T S • O C C U PAT I O N A L TH E R A P I S T S • R E G I S T E R E D D I E T I T I A N S

www. rhchealth .com

O N E P A R K W E S T B L V D . | S U I T E 2 7 0 | A K R O N , O H 4 4 3 2 0 | 3 3 0 . 5 6 4 . 4 10 0

Keep these handy in summer H2 O As the temperatures rise and your activity level goes up, increase your intake of water.

Staying hydrated helps flush toxins from your system and keeps you from getting heat stroke. Give your water a kick with cucumber slices, mint leaves, lemon or lime wedges, and avoid filling up on sugary, carbonated drinks or iced tea.

White toothpaste.

New Teeth In A Day! 6WDELOLW\ DQG &RQÀGHQFH & " "! $ " " ) + " $ % " " " " $ "# + * " ! & !% ! " ! " "! % $ " % & " " ! & ! " $ #!" "# ( ! & "" " ! " ' " ! " " & # # " # & # " " " #" # # " ! #!" &

Consultation available for $100.

Includes Doctor’s time and preliminary x-rays.

56

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

John H. Murphy D.D.S., FAGD Fellow In the Midwest Implant Institute

'DUURZ 5RDG 6XLWH 6WRZ 2KLR

Keep a travel tube in your car or with your camping and hiking gear for insect bites or stings. Insect venoms are acidic, and the toothpaste is alkaline; it neutralizes venom.

The mild topical anesthetic in toothpaste can help reduces the pain of the bite or sting, and as it dries, it draws venom out of the site.

Antiseptic wipes Not just for babies, use wipes to clean wounds before applying a bandage.

Credit or debit card When a bee stings, get the stinger out fast to lesson the severity of your reaction to the venom. If you can’t pull it out with your finger, try using the edge of a credit card.

But remember, how quickly you remove the stinger is more important than how you remove it.

Healthy Tips

The Science of Sleep

By Nader Botros, M.D., MPH

A

ccording to Nader Botros, M.D., MPH, pulmonary disease specialist at Summa Akron City and St. Thomas Hospitals, it’s not only how much we sleep but the quality of sleep, which can lead to various illnesses. We asked Dr. Botros a few questions on sleep and what we can do to improve our slumber and our general health as well.

Q: Why is getting a “good nights sleep” important?

A: We all function better and are more alert after a good night of sleep. In addition, evidence gained over the last several years indicates that poor sleep and sleep apnea will increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, motor vehicle accidents, depression, cognitive dysfunction and infections just to name a few.

Q: How much sleep do we need each night?

notices these cessations in breathing at night (often for years).

In addition, for those with one or a combination of hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, or stroke, even without symptoms noted above, a discussion with your family physician or sleep specialist is recommended to screen for sleep apnea.

Q: How do you test for Sleep Apnea?

A: As much sleep for you to feel refreshed in the morning upon awakening and function without excessive daytime sleepiness throughout the day, usually 7-8 hours.

Q: You’ve mentioned and we’ve heard a lot about Sleep Apnea - what is it?

A: Sleep Apnea is a nighttime breathing disorder where you stop breathing due to an upper airway obstruction or collapse. Apneas occur several times throughout the night; mild cases can be 5-15 episodes per hour, moderate cases are 15-30 per hour and severe apnea is more than 30 episodes per hour, often without the patient realizing this is occurring.

Q: How would I know if I may have or am at risk for Sleep Apnea?

A: Most people will feel symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness, though some will not. We know risk factors include increasing age, increasing weight (obesity), snoring, gasping or choking sensation at night, unrefreshing sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Often our best indicator is a bed partner who

A: Your primary physician or sleep specialist will send you for a polysomnogram, which is an overnight study done at one of Summa’s sleep labs. This test will monitor several things including breathing pattern, EEG, oxygen levels, heart rate, and other information necessary for us to diagnose not only sleep apnea, but other sleep disorders as well.

Q: How common are sleep disorders?

A: Sleep Apnea affects one in four to five adult men and one in nine adult women. However, there are other sleep disorders which are equally if not more common and deserved of assessment by a physician including insomnia (which at some point will affect 50 percent of Americans), restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, circadian rhythm disorders, shift worker’s sleep disorder, and several other disorders that can affect someone’s sleep.

To make an appointment with a Summa Sleep Specialist Physician, call 800-237-8662, ext. 234.

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

57

HOME& GARDEN

Opportunities Await Why now is a great time for home buyers

W

hile it’s too late to cash in on the first-time or repeat home buyer tax credits, that doesn’t mean it’s not a great time to buy a home. In fact, there are still plenty of incentives for would-be homeowners. Though the future is beginning to look bright for home sellers, it’s still a buyer’s market. Those on the fence about whether the time is right to buy a home should consider the following points from the National Home Builders Association.

1 2 3

Today’s market features a plentiful inventory of homes, offering great selection.

58

Akron Life & Leisure

The recession and housing downturn have resulted in more affordable home prices.

For those who qualify, mortgage interest rates are at favorable levels. But with the ever-changing market, it’s difficult to pinpoint how long that will last.

July 2010

4 5

New homes are more energy-efficient than ever before, leaving homeowners with lower operating costs and less environmental impact.

New homes also feature more open floor plans, flexible features, improved safety and other amenities that homeowners want; they’re designed with the buyer in mind.

And if you’re unable to purchase a newly built home, incentives like the Section 203(k) program and other loans through the Federal Housing Administration make it easier to get the cost of fixing up an older home built right in to your mortgage.

For more information, visit the National Association of Home Builders at nahb.org or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at hud.gov. Happy house hunting! —KL

The Ultimate Garage... ®

Floor Coatings | Cabinets | Organizers

o

Envision Awards The finest in new homes

The members of the Home Builders Association Serving Portage and Summit counties and the Professional Remodelers Council present the Envision Awards, which feature some of the finest in new homes and construction of 2009. Participating entrants completed projects of varying sizes, styles, designs and price points that were offered for sale or specifically designed to meet the needs and desires of their owners.

These homes and remodel projects were submitted anonymously by builders, designers and architects to be scrutinized on a demanding range of criteria by a select panel of 14 judges from a variety of disciplines.

Multiple entries represent 18 categories by 14 different companies. The projects featured on the following pages were determined to be among the best in new homes and construction of 2009 by the distinguished panel.

After

Before

Your Garage, Only Better.

Transform your garage into the one you’ve always wanted. PremierGarage makes it easy. By designing alongside you, using the highest quality materials, and installing it all with care. Go ahead. Sit back and relax. Space is what you make of it. Make it your own. Make it last. Make it PremierGarage.™

For more information, call 330.922.4411 or visit PremierGarage.com

7KH (VWDWHV

DW &DQWHUEXU\ RQ WKH /DNHV

One-Acre Lots Available Waterfront • Walkouts • Wooded • Culdesac

0LQXWHV IURP 'RZQWRZQ +XGVRQ

330-650-4333 prestigehomesohio.com July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

59

envision awards The finest in new homes

KNL Custom Homes Inc. Home is located at 2033 Woodshire Ln. in Medina “Great details on custom-made cabinets...fantastic full theater room in lower level...trim work and details feel like an old estate home.”

Prestige Homes Home is located at 6575 Chestwick Ln. in Hudson “From the moment you enter the 10’ knotty alder front doors of ths 6,500 sq. ft. European estate ranch you know this home is special. An open yet comfortable feel. Attention to detail and quality is everywhere you look.”

60

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Photos by Majestic Imaging Ltd

With more than 20 years of experience designing kitchens, bathrooms and home offices, Freedom Design is one of KraftMaid’s premier dealers in Northeastern Ohio. Visit our showrooms conveniently located in Garfield Heights and Cuyahoga Falls to see more than 40 beautiful design displays.

Don’t trust just anyone to design your kitchen, we offer the personalized service as well as the competitive pricing you deserve.

Stile Homes Home is located at 522 C Robinwood Lane in Copley

Freedom Design is THE Showcase Dealer at KraftMaid Experience~Chagrin Falls.

CLEVELAND

AKRON

“Great utilization of space...nice laundry room...open and homey feeling for the spaces.”

4944 Neo Parkway • Garfield Hts., OH 44128

2783 Front Street • Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221

You’ve taken a great deal of care

*).&-0/&/()( ooo&>j]]\ge<]ka_fdd[&[ge ++(&1*1&)/(-

building your lifestyle

From your home, to its furnishings, to the cars you drive ... everything was selected for its quality, endurance and style. Your insurance protection should be no different. proudly representing

Contact us today about Wespak Estate ... It is the right choice for you.

Call Nadine Kravetz at The Church Agency, Inc. % #UYAHOGA &ALLS !VE p !KRON /( EXTENSION p www.churchagency.com July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

61

Green Your Lawn The outside of your home is the first thing people see.

Proper lawn and garden maintenance will go a long way in making a good impression.

Here are a few eco-friendly lawn care techniques to consider. Many of them are good for your wallet as well as the environment.

envision awards The finest in new homes

Invest in a rain barrel Conserve water and save money by collecting rainwater in a barrel connected to the downspout. Use it on gardens and plants.

Start a compost pile Keep waste out of the landfill and return vital nutrients to the earth with the compost.

You can include most food scraps and organic material like cardboard.

Crasi Company

Plant a tree Trees consume carbon dioxide, helping the atmosphere, and provide shade, helping save energy costs.

Home is located at 1583 Pebblecreek in Bath “Tremendous attention to every aspect...warm and inviting finish choices...fantastic approach from outside...good attention to detail.”

Do not bag the lawn Leave grass cuttings on the yard or mow leaves instead of bagging them. It returns vital moisture and nutrients to the earth.

Reuse an old hose Poke holes and use as a soaker or to tie leaning or growing trees.

Keep your grass longer You will mow less, which makes your lawn healthier and more draught resistant.

Weeds will also have a more difficult time taking root.

Choose alternative yard problem solvers Plants such as marigolds keep away certain types of pests.

And vinegar is a natural weed and grass killer.

Testa Builders Inc.

Use fewer chemicals Add your used coffee grounds to the dirt around acid-loving plants, such as azaleas, in place of chemical fertilizers.

62

Akron Life & Leisure

Home is located at 113 North Howard in Akron “Very creative design...very strong structure—weloming and impressive...high-tech features are a nice addition...unique bathroom design.”

July 2010

Caruso Architecture Inc. and Rockwood Custom Builders Inc. Home is located at 692 Sunnyside Ave. in Akron “Breathtaking kitchen...great care and precision with simple, yet powerful details...beautiful transformation.”

LPDJLQH SRVVLELOLWLHV LP J QH \RXU RXU SRV L L L LHV

Franklin & Associates Home is located at 3433 W. Bath Rd. in Bath “Mind-blowing design with the utmost uniqueness of details...one-of-a-kind...nice blend of rustic and modern details.”

&$// 86 72'$< :( $5( +(5( 72 +(/3

9

]PHJ DQGVFDSH ,QF

ZZZ YL]PHJ FRP 6HUYLQJ WKH &OHYHODQG DQG $NURQ $UHDV

7+( &5($7,9,7< <28 '(6(59( 7+( .12:/('*( $1' (;3(5,(1&( <28 (;3(&7

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

63

envision awards The finest in new homes

330.244.9320 6285 Promler Ave. NW • North Canton, OH www.stratagranite.com

Stark•Summit•Tuscarawas

Stephen Leuenberger Archictect Inc.

Most Experienced Fabricator

Home is located at 3537 Yellow Creek Rd. in Bath “Impressive modern interpretation...fabulous outside living spaces and views...great play space loft.”

Yellow Creek 7UDGLQJ &R

Fresh Ideas for Refined Casual Living.

Create casual elegance for outdoor entertaining with imaginative serving solutions and inviting garden and patio accents.

Prestige Homes

0DLQ 6W 3HQLQVXOD 2+

Home is located at 6553 Chestwick Lane in Hudson

0RQ 6DW 6XQ

“Intimate areas within provide a warm family atmosphere...excellent attention to detail...creative use of curved walls.”

Z Z Z \ H O O R Z F U H H N W U D G L Q J F R P 64

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Rembrandt Homes Home is located at 9375 Coblentz Ave. in Uniontown “Great utilization of light and views...deeply inset windows are a great detail...second-floor laundry well planned.”

Mon-Sat: 10am-5:30pm, Evenings by appointment 3581 Medina Road, Medina, 44256 www.astinmuckensturm.com • 440.349.7322 • 330.721.9331 • astinmuckensturm@aol.com

You would do anything to keep them safe...

O`g k \gaf_ l`Yl ^gj qgm7

Duda Construction Co., Inc. Home is located at 96 E. Streetsboro St. in Hudson

Our products are professionally installed by trained Securitec technicians, not unknown subcontractors.

And, each monitored security system is covered by Securitec’s lifetime warranty.

“Porch wraps nicely around the front and side of the house...nice scale in keeping with historic neighborhood.”

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

65

Wake up in the place you dream about.

Design your own vacation package with incredible savings on park tickets.

Come and stay at one of Cedar Point’s four hotels, cottages, cabins or RV campground, and enjoy the best of everything. · Huge discounts on tickets to Cedar Point, voted Best Amusement Park in the World · Early Entry, a whole extra hour to spend on select rides · Quick, convenient access to the park and to a beautiful beach · And a chance to take on our new thrill ride, Shoot the Rapids™

Book today and design your own fun-filled vacation using our Build Your Own Package option online. It’s more than you could ever dream of!

is h T n u r

7

419.627.2106 cedarpoint.com/resorts U -> `ÕÃ Þ] "

2BCM S?;L >IHbN GCMM NB? ;FF H?Q @;GCFS LC>? 1BIIN NB? 0;JC>M\

'NbM ; QCF> LCP?L ;>P?HNOL? QCNB NQI CH=L?>C<F? >LIJM

73 rd Anniversary of the All-American Soap Box Derby

Save the Dream, Save the Derby

The Making of “25 HILL”

A Special Supplement to Akron Life & Leisure Magazine

northsidelofts.com

Metropolitan Living in Downtown Akron Sales Office: 21 Furnace Street Monday 12-4, Friday 12-8 & Saturday 2-5, or private appointment. Decorated models now open for viewing.

Incredible Financing - 3.5% 30 yr fixed rate loans with 0 points*

Manhattan Style Loft Condos 1,400-3,500 SF priced $180’s - $700’s.

Purchase or rent to own.* Trade-in and buy-back options available.* No payments for 18 months.*

Brownstone Townhomes 2,000 SF townhomes with 2 car garages.

Several plans to choose from. Pricing starts at $234,900. Completed units ready for viewing.

330.606.9934 • 330.352.1880 • northsidelofts.com *available to qualified buyers, contact sales agent for details. Rates as of 6-05-09 and subject to change. Min down payment 3-10%

At FirstMerit Wealth Management Services, we are always around

We’ll surround you

(in a good, positive, wealth-building, helpful way). We believe in a comprehensive team approach designed to roll you smoothly forward.

with advice, solutions

Our strength is not only in what we offer, but also in how we offer

and integrity.

it. We deliver unbiased proactive advice from a true team of pros assembled specifically for your needs and we link our success

That’s how we roll.

directly to your success. For over 165 years, FirstMerit has been a strong, positive local presence, always learning from the past and forever looking forward.

To roll with us, talk with Leigh Gerstenberger and team at 888-384-6388.

Or, go to firstmerit.com/mywealth.

ONE TEAM. ONE FOCUS.

INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT PRIVATE BANKING TRUST & ESTATE ENDOWMENT & FOUNDATION SERVICES CHARITABLE ADVISORY SERVICES RISK MANAGEMENT 401(K) SERVICES FAMILY OFFICE

Past displays of talent, integrity and passion are absolutely guarantees of future displays of talent, integrity and passion.

Save the Dream, Save the Derby, The Making of “25 HILL” Contributors Copywriting

Mary Ethridge Ethridge Communications

Art Direction

Michael Houseman Trendesign, LLC

Photography

Todd Biss Todd Biss Photography

Photo Research

Pam Harget All-American Soap Box Derby Judy James Akron-Summit County Public Library

Save the Dream, Save the Derby, The Making of “25 HILL” is a special supplement to Akron Life & Leisure magazine. Akron Life & Leisure is published by Baker Media Group, LLC. Akron Life & Leisure Publisher

Don Baker, Jr.

Associate Publisher

Colin Baker

Creative Director

Kathy Baker Moorhouse

Managing Editor

Kristin Lindsey

Assistant Editor

Jane Day

Graphic Designer

William Teckmyer III

Project Manager

Carol Null

Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic and Corbin Bernsen

4

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Campus of the Year

Again!

The University of Akron is the nation’s “Campus of the Year,” according to Campus Activities Magazine. UA has earned the magazine’s top ranking four times in the past 10 years.

Schedule a visit and find out why.

Call 1-800-655-4884 or 330-972-7100 or go online at www.uakron.edu/visitUA. The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution

6

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Save the Dream, Save the Derby The Making of “25 HILL”

In

early September of last year, actor and film producer Corbin Bernsen was stuck on a plane with nothing to read.

He reached into a nearby seat pocket and grabbed a discarded USA Today “Money” section. In it, he read a story about the troubles of the Akron-based AllAmerican Soap Box Derby. At that time, the Derby—a youth racing league dating to the Great Depression— was more than $500,000 in debt and living “hand to mouth.” It wasn’t for lack of interest; the Derby is still popular among children. But the Derby had been without a title sponsor for going on three years. Without more support from the business world, the Derby was going to join the list of extinct traditions in American culture.

The story of the Derby’s struggles moved Bernsen, the father of four boys ages 11 to 21, profoundly. He was saddened by the notion that the Derby might slip quietly away, removing one more brick from the foundation of everything that makes America great.

“The Derby has always been a place for kids to dream and work hard to make those dreams come true,” Bernsen said. “No, the world won’t fall apart if the Derby disappears, but we will have lost a precious tradition. Our country is young and we must protect those traditions we have.”

After reading the USA Today story, Bernsen felt moved to help. Naturally, given his long and respected tenure in the film industry, an idea for a movie began to take shape. In a remarkable seven weeks, he crafted a film script with the Soap Box Derby at its heart.

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

7

Top left: Actor Nathan Gamble in his garage/workshop scene. Top right: Assistant director Mark Munson coaches extras in a Derby scene Bottom: Director Corbin Bernsen coaches young actors in a scene at Springfield High School.

Roy helps Trey finish his Derby car and coaches him to victory in the regional championships. Trey earns a trip to Akron to compete in the world finals only to learn the Derby championship is being cancelled because of the organization’s financial difficulties. An undaunted Trey travels to Akron convinced he can talk the bank into forgiving the Derby’s debt. A kind banker explains to Trey that he can’t do that. If he did, those who are owed the money will suffer.

Grief, Friendship and Hope “25 Hill” is the story of Trey Caldwell, an 11-year-old California boy whose father is an Army Reservist. One Christmas morning, Trey opens a present from his dad, hoping for a laptop. Instead, he finds a box from the All-American Soap Box Derby. It’s a derby car kit, Trey’s dad explains. They’ll make it together, and Trey can race it in the spring.

Trey’s dad always dreamed of racing in the Soap Box Derby but never got the chance.

Soon after, Trey’s father is deployed to Afghanistan where he is killed two

8

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

weeks later. A grieving Trey struggles to make sense of the world and to figure out how he can make his dad’s unfulfilled Derby dream come true. His school principal, sensing the boy’s troubles, introduces him to Roy, a middle-aged, embittered firefighter. Roy lost his firefighter son in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11 and has soured on both America and a dream of any kind. A curious Trey looks up Roy’s name on the Internet and discovers he was the 1970 Soap Box Derby champion. The reluctant pair forges a friendship, bound by grief and a passion for the Derby.

July 2010

A frustrated Trey goes home to Taft and creates a video about the American dream and the importance of preserving the traditions for which his father died, especially the Derby.

The video is an Internet phenomenon, especially among children.

Soon, money collected by kids across the globe begins to poor into the Derby headquarters. Trey’s efforts are picked up by the news media; corporate leaders are inspired by Trey’s spirit; and the Derby is saved.

The race is on.

Trey prays to God to win the big race for his father. He’s particularly wor-

Director Corbin Bernsen sets up a funeral shot at a graveyard in east Akron.

ried about his nemesis, a focused and determined girl who has challenged him every step of the way.

We won’t spoil the ending, but rest assured that Trey—as the boy who saved the Derby—is a true winner in every sense of the word.

that the people of Northeast Ohio want the Derby to survive and stay in the area.”

A Community Project

In early November, Bernsen visited Derby Downs in Akron and experienced the “thrill of the hill” firsthand. He shared his story with Derby officials and friends. While in Akron, Bernsen learned what an important role the Derby has played in Akron’s history and civic culture.

On that first visit, Bernsen came up with the idea to make “25 Hill” an Akron area project. If he could raise the money for the film from people in the area, it would allow him the freedom to film “25 Hill” mainly in Northeast Ohio using a local crew and businesses. It would also allow him to donate a portion of the money raised—as well as future revenues—to the Derby for its continued survival.

“People shared their Derby stories with me, which ranged from racing year after year to marching in championship parades. They talked about the friends and memories they made,” said Bernsen. “I knew then

“If I funded the film from the usual Hollywood sources, they’d care most about the bottom line. They’d want me to film where it would be least expensive, and they wouldn’t care about keeping the Derby in Akron,”

A Visit to Akron

July 2010

said Bernsen. “By making the movie a community project, we also draw media attention to the Derby and the film that we wouldn’t ordinarily get.”

“25 Hill” has already been featured in front page articles in the Wall Street Journal and Variety as well as in stories in USA Today, the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Associated Press and the Beacon Journal. Numerous websites and broadcast stations, including National Public Radio, have already done stories about the creation of “25 Hill.”

Bernsen made several trips to Akron between November and April to meet with community leaders and potential investors. By the end of March he had raised $500,000— enough to move ahead with the project, although he continued to work to raise the full $825,000 budgeted for the making of the film. Most Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

9

Right: Akron’s old Goodyear Bank stands in for the Akron bank Trey visits to plead for the Derby. Bottom: Corbin Bernsen’s oldest son Oliver, a member of the film crew, sets up a historic sign at Derby Downs

of the money came from Northeast Ohio investors. Companies, including Geico and Tire Rack, have joined the film project as sponsors. The Derby receives 10 percent of the money invested as well as a portion of future revenues to help alleviate its debt, which totaled nearly $625,000 when production began.

Filming of “25 Hill” officially launched on an unseasonably warm, sunny day in early April at Derby Downs in Akron. The city’s mayor, Donald L. Plusquellic, called “action” on the first scene to be filmed—a poignant exchange between Ralph Waite as a Derby veteran and 11-yearold Trey, played by Nathan Gamble.

(Scenes aren’t necessarily filmed in order.)

100 Percent Perfection The crew of “25 Hill” comes largely from Northeast Ohio. Bernsen and two of his colleagues at his independent film company, Team Cherokee Productions, serve as head producers. The two associate producers, the assistant to the directors and the line producer are from the Akron area. The director of photography and head of wardrobe are from Cleveland. Numerous others—from the head of make-up to production assistants—are from Northeast Ohio.

The music for the film is being written by Lee Strauss, who grew up in Akron and majored in film scoring at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. Plans are for the Akron Symphony to perform it. Two local people—one a trained actor and one who works for AT&T—have speaking roles in the movie. Dozens of local residents serve as stand-ins and extras. Akron Mayor Plusquellic plays himself in the film.

10

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

“The Northeast Ohio crew has been 100 percent perfection,” said Bernsen.

“We’re putting together something absolutely extraordinary here.”

The Ohio production crew traveled in June to Taft, California, to film scenes that couldn’t be completed in Northeast Ohio. The title of “25 Hill” comes from Bernsen’s mother, distinguished actress Jeanne Cooper, who grew up in Taft, a town of 18,000 about 35 miles southwest of Bakersfield. As Bernsen was writing the script, he shared his ideas with his mother. She told him that when she was a child in Taft, the kids raced homemade cars down a slope called 25 Hill. That’s when Bernsen decided to make Taft Trey’s hometown in honor of his mother.

July 2010

The crew returned to Derby Downs in early July to begin set-up for filming the crucial race scenes. With a bit of movie magic, Cleveland’s Baruth International Raceway serves as Seattle’s track, where Trey wins his West Coast championship. The crew will be filming all during the All-American Soap Box Derby’s championship race week, July 19–25.

They’re faced with the challenge of filming some of the most important scenes in the movie without disturbing the actual, real-life event.

After filming wraps, the movie will go into post production where it is edited into its final form. Bernsen hopes to have its premiere at Akron’s Rubber Bowl during next year’s Derby championship week.

Corbin Bernsen, as an injured former Derby champ, performs a scene with Nathan Gamble who plays Trey, the main character in the film.

Akron Mayor Plusquellic said he’s been pleased with Bernsen’s efforts and the community’s response.

“It’s all about bringing a community together to save a dream and a tradition,” said Bernsen, who added he plans to stay involved with the AllAmerican Soap Box Derby. “This just may be the most challenging and rewarding projects of my career.”

“We’re grateful to Mr. Bernsen for his hard work on behalf of the Derby and Akron,” said Plusquellic.

“Winning a trip to Akron has been

the dream of generations of Derby racers. We need to preserve the tradition for all those thousands of kids out there who still dream that dream—and for the generations to come.” ✪

&KDPSLRQVKLS *DUDJH 'HVLJQ W salu Champio t the nR e ft

7 rd All Am ri a n So p B x D rby n f

Hill

F

]

LQ

+RQHVW )ULHQGO\ 5HOLDEOH 6HUYLFH /LIHWLPH :DUUDQW\ 2Q $OO &DELQHWV )UHH 2Q 6LWH ' &RPSXWHU 'HVLJQV +HDY\ 'XW\ )XOO\ %DFNHG &DELQHWV

R

J

]

([FOXVLYH 5HYROXWLRQDU\ )ORRU 3URGXFWV *UDQLWH 6W\OH )ORRUV 2UJDQL]HUV $YDLODEOH )RU $OO <RXU 6WRUDJH 1HHGV $OO :RUN 3HUIRUPHG E\ &RPSDQ\ (PSOR\HHV

For more information, visit www.PremierGarage.com July 2010

PremierGarage

®

&DOO 7RGD\ )RU <RXU )UHH ,Q +RPH 'HVLJQ &RQVXOWDWLRQ

330.922.4411 Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

11

The Primary Cast of 25 Hill Trey Caldwell/Nathan Gamble Trey is an 11-year-old with a Derby dream.

T

rey is played by Nathan Gamble. Nathan is a 12-year-old originally from Tacoma, Washington. He made his first appearance on stage when his mother was pregnant with him and appeared in a production of “Scrooge.” His parents are theater directors and run a drama camp for children. Nathan beat out 20,000 other boys to win the role of

12

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

the son of Brad Pitt’s and Cate Blanchett’s characters in the 2006 film “Babel,” for which he received a Young Artist Award nomination.

In 2008, he played the son of the Jennifer Anniston and Owen Wilson characters in “Marley & Me” and portrayed Commissioner Gordon’s son in “The Dark Knight.”

Fe\ CfZXk`fe# Jf DlZ_ kf <eafp .,' N_`k\ Gfe[ ;i`m\ 8bife# F_`f

A Private School, an Acclaimed Education, a Choice of Curriculums

Jldd\i =le Y\^`ej Xk k_\ J_Xn A::

Looking for a school as special as your child?

The Lippman School weaves a global perspective throughout all classes and programs.

On campus before & after care provided by the Shaw JCC.

Now Enrolling Grades K-8.

330-836-0419 TheLippmanSchool.org

:fd\ Xe[ j\\ Xcc k_\ A:: _Xj kf f]]\i jldd\i ZXdgj# \Xicp Z_`c[_ff[ Z\ek\i# `e[ffi&flk[ffi gffc Xe[ Ôke\jj Z\ek\i%

Global perspective. Individual focus.

Impact.

D\ek`fe k_`j X[[ n\ n`cc nX`m\ k_\ i\^`jkiXk`fe ]\\ Jkfg Yp ]fi X kfli :fekXZk lj ]fi dfi\ `e]fidXk`fe Xk **'%/-.%./,' $ j_XnaZZ%fi^

It takes the right tools to start or grow a business. And it takes customers to keep your business growing.

The Greater Akron Chamber builds strong businesses and communities by connecting you to new customers and suppliers, as well as to those who influence the local economy and quality of life.

You’ll get the tools and resources you need to grow and make a positive impact.

Access to the right tools. One more way the Chamber makes an impact.

Be a part of the

Leading Businesses. Leading Communities.™ Call (330) 376-5550 or log onto www.greaterakronchamber.org

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

13

Roy /Corbin Bernsen Roy, played by Corbin Bernsen, is a middle-aged, disillusioned firefighter and former Derby champ.

B

ernsen, who wrote, produced and is directing “25 Hill,” has a storied Hollywood history. The son of producer Harry Bernsen and actress Jeanne Cooper, Bernsen earned his master’s in playwriting from UCLA. He had a primary role in the NBC drama series “LA Law” in the late 1980s and early ‘90s as womanizing lawyer Arnold

14

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Becker. Bernsen himself has been married for 21 years to the actress Amanda Pays. The couple has four sons, the oldest of whom, Oliver, is on the production crew of “25 Hill.” In addition to running Team Cherokee Productions, an independent film company, Bernsen appears regularly on the USA Network show “Psych.”

Maggie Caldwell/Maureen Flannigan Maggie is Trey Caldwell’s mother.

M

aureen Flannigan, a California native, is noted for her role as Evie Ethel Garland in the 1980s TV sitcom “Out of This World,” which also starred Donna Pescow. She began acting professionally

July 2010

in 1985. She has appeared in numerous television series, including “Law & Order: SVU” and the new “90210.” She had a recurring role as Shana Sullivan on the hit family drama “7th Heaven.”

Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

15

Thomas Caldwell/Tim Omundson Thomas Caldwell is Trey’s soldier father.

M

arried to an Akron native, Omundson currently stars in the USA Network series “Psych” as Detective Carlton Lassiter. He grew up in Seattle, Washington, the son of a railroad man

16

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

and a teacher. Omundson started to study theatre at the age of 12 at The Seattle Children’s Theater. He has appeared in numerous dramas, including “Cold Case” and “Criminal Minds.”.

Mrs. Banner/Rolonda Watts

Bank Manager/Michael Tucker

Mrs. Banner is Trey’s school principal.

The Akron banker offers Trey tough but true life lessons.

W

atts’ name, face and distinctive voice are known by audiences everywhere, thanks to her work in radio, television, and film. She is the announcer of “The Judge Joe Brown Show” and is the commercial voice for many corporations. Most viewers know her from her internationally syndicated talk show, “Rolonda,” which ran from 1995-98. Watts began her television career as a local news reporter in her native North Carolina before moving on to larger markets. She has also acted in many television and feature films, including “The West Wing,” “Boston Public” and “Days of Our Lives.”

M

ichael Tucker is most widely known for his role as Stuart Markowitz in “LA Law,” alongside Corbin Bernsen. His acting experience includes early appearances with Joseph Papp, stage training and roles in London, and a major stint at the Arena Theatre, in Washington, D.C. Tucker is a Renaissance man who has authored cook books. Both he and actress wife Jill Eikenberry are active in fundraising for breast cancer research and treatment. His most recent book is “Living in a Foreign Language: A Memoir of Food, Wine, and Love in Italy,” which describes his buying a house in a small Italian village and mastering the fine art of Italian cooking. In 2008, he and his wife produced a PBS documentary, “Emile Norman: By His Own Design.”

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

17

Ed/Ralph Waite

Audrey/Meg Foster

Ed is a longtime Derby pro with plenty of wisdom to share with Trey.

Audrey is Roy’s wife.

F

oster was born in Reading, Pennsylvania, and has appeared in television and films since 1970. She is well known for her role in “The Man in the Iron Mask” in 1998, and played Hester Prynne in the PBS production of “The Scarlet Letter.” Her work includes appearances in numerous episodic television shows as diverse as “Hawaii Five-O” and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.”

Trey’s Nemesis/Bailee Madison This young derby champ challenges Trey at every turn with her focus and her drive to win.

A R

alph Waite’s portrayal of John Walton in the 1970s drama “The Waltons” will be a family favorite for decades to come. Waite existed rather aimlessly as a young adult while trying to find his way in the world. Occupations came and went, including social worker, religious editor for Harper & Row, and even Presbyterian minister after spending three years at the Yale School of Divinity. At age 30, however, he began to study acting and found his true life’s passion.

Waite made his professional New York debut in a 1960 production of “The Balcony” at the Circle in the Square and was seen on Broadway in “Blues for Mister Charlie” before earning fine reviews in 1965 alongside Faye Dunaway in “Hogan’s Goat.” This was enough to encourage him to move West where he began collecting parts in prestigious movies, including “Cool Hand Luke” and “Five Easy Pieces.”

18

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

t the age of 10, Bailee Madison has a resume that would put actors three times her age to shame. The sweetfaced Bailee is best known for her role as May Belle in Disney’s “Bridge to Terebithia.” She also starred in “Phoebe in Wonderland” (with Felicity Huffman and Elle Fanning).

At the end of last year, Bailee won a Critics Choice Awards nomination for her performance in “Brothers” with Natalie Portman, Jake Gyllenhall and Tobey Maguire. She is in five feature films to be released this year, including Guillermo Del Toro’s “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark” in which she has a starring role. Bailee began her career when she was only two weeks old when she appeared in an Office Depot commercial. ✪

Akron Life & Leisure magazine has a new online home.

COM ME RCI AL , IN DU ST RI AL

LIKE THE DERBY, WE'RE PROUD TO BE LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED! SECURITEC SALUTES THE RACERS OF THE ALL-AMERICAN SOAP BOX DERBY AND THE MOVIE 25 HILL! RVEILLENCE & TE RMS , SU L

&

EPHO NES

E ALA , FIR Y T RI ECU S IAL NT E D SI RE

1-800-860-7413 Arts & Entertainment

• 1 6 2 1 M E D I N A R D . M E D I N A , O H 4 4 2 5 6 • w w w. s e c u r i t e c 1 . c o m •

Food & Dining Home & Garden Beauty & Wellness

Finish First!

Celebrating Akron, The All-American Soap Box Derby Championship Weekend and the movie 25 Hill!

Subscribe Today! online at akronlife.com or call 330-253-0056 ext. 112

You can also stay connected with Akron Life & Leisure by becomming a fan on Facebook or following us on Twitter (@akronlifemag).

From the business partners of

inc.

TIRES & MORE, INC.

330-864-4300

1556 Water St., Kent • 330-673-2164 “Where Customers Are King”

ACCOUNTANTS & CONSULTANTS

Helping Small Business Grow.

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

19

STAR POWER Hollywood has always supported the Derby, but Bernsen takes it to a new level.

Ronald Reagan in the 1951 oil can race.

Photo: All-American Soap Box Derby

A

lthough a celebrity making a feature film about and to benefit the All-American Soap Box Derby is something new, the seven-decade history of the Derby is as star-studded as a clear July night.

In the years just before World War II and for the generation after it, the Soap Box Derby grew into a national icon. It was the place for celebrities to see and be seen by other celebrities as well as thousands of fans.

20

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

Chevrolet—which sponsored the Derby from 1936 to 1972—put its marketing muscle to work by bringing Hollywood’s best and brightest to Akron for the annual championship.

Much beloved actor Jimmy Stewart was so fond of the Soap Box Derby, he attended the championship six times, even postponing his honeymoon so he could attend. (No word on how his bride, Gloria, felt about that.) Actor Lorne Greene of “Bonanza” fame attended five times.

(Chevrolet sponsored “Bonanza.”)

Ài>Ì ÀÌ U Ài>Ì ÌiÀÌ> i Ì U Ài>Ì / it

TH 5

Other stars to enjoy the Derby were Bud Abbott and Lou Costello; King of the Cowboys Roy Rogers; Edgar Bergen and his dummy Charlie McCarthy; Paul Winchell and Jerry Mahoney; Art Baker (“You Asked For It!”); Dinah Shore; Pat Boone and Art Carney.

ANNUAL

Dinah Shore held an impromptu 90-minute concert in 1953 to help pass the time as thunderclouds moved over Akron. To this day, the All-American has never been rained out, although in 1941 it was the first event in the nation to cancel itself on behalf of the war effort.

Not only did Hollywood stars flock to Akron for the event, but the race winners received the star treatment themselves, traveling to New York to appear on nationwide radio programs and to California to ride on floats in the Rose Bowl.

Ronald Reagan was still three decades from the presidency when he entered his strategic prototype in the 1951 Oil Can race, the celebrity race instituted in 1950 and known for general silliness and clowning around.

In 1963, Paul Lynde, Arthur Godfrey, Paul Anka and Rock Hudson tried to snatch the Oil Can trophy from TV’s Lawman John Russel.

In 1959, Vice President Richard Nixon attended the championship in Akron. The vice president didn’t race in the Oil Can. However, Nixon did award the Derby’s championship trophy to Barney Townsend of Indiana and, at the same time, took a jab at Communist Russia, saying that “over there, the parents wouldn’t have been allowed to do this.”

Captain Eddie Rickenbacker, a World War I ace pilot, and radio star Tom

10AM - 6PM

8.14.10 e! our bik Ride y it at our k LET Par IKE VAY: FREE B ED B OR

SPONS

Experience University Park!

Free Admission & Parking

Grace Park is located at the corner of Perkins and Prospect Streets adjacent to downtown Akron.

www.universityparkartfair.org PRESENTING SPONSOR:

Mix were the first genuine celebrities who came for the event in 1936. That same year, NBC broadcaster Graham McNamee was hit by a car driven by a boy from Oklahoma City. The car went out of control, off the track and slammed into the commentator, who finished his live broadcast despite a concussion and other injuries that put him in an Akron hospital for two weeks.

July 2010

FOUNDING SPONSORS:

In the 1960s, the Soap Box Derby inspired an episode of one of the most popular television shows of the time. In 1966, the stars of “Bewitched”—Elizabeth Montgomery, Agnes Moorhead and Dick York—came to the 29th Derby championship and were welcomed downtown by thousands of fans who lined South Main Street to see them.

“Bewitched” aired on ABC from 1964 to 1972.

Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

21

Stars of the television series Bonanza Photo: Akron-Summit County Public Library

Rock Hudson, Paul Anka, Arthur Godfrey, Paul Lynde and John Russell Photo: All-American Soap Box Derby

Television personality Dinah Shore and derby racers Photo: Akron-Summit County Public Library

22

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

A proud supporter of the Soap Box Derby, Billow’s has sponsored racers since 1936.

“Everybody in Akron must be here,” a surprised Moorhead told the Akron Beacon Journal.

“I’m stunned,” Dick York added.

Montgomery was accompanied by her husband, William Asher, the producer of “Bewitched,” a show about a housewife-witch married to an often dazed mortal. Asher and Montgomery were so impressed by the Derby and by Akron, they decided to write an episode of “Bewitched” about it.

In late December 1966, an episode of Bewitched called “Soapbox Derby” aired for the first time; it can still be seen occasionally in syndication today. Its plot involves Montgomery’s character, Samantha Stephens, who helps a boy compete against the nephew of her nosy neighbor, Gladys Kravitz. Both boys make it to the championship in Akron. At the end, footage of the actual 1966 race is used to simulate the race between the nephew and the boy Samantha helps.

After Chevrolet dropped its sponsorship in 1972, celebrities still came to Akron for the Soap Box Derby, although not in the numbers of previous decades. Corbin Bernsen’s “25 Hill”, now in production, marks a new relationship between Hollywood and the All-American Soap Derby.

Instead of simply lending temporary glamour to the annual event, Bernsen has committed himself to reviving the organization through his creativity, dedication and, of course, star power. He imagines a day in the near future when dozens of celebrities will again flock to the Derby championship not only to see and be seen, but to support the spirit and tradition of the All-American Soap Box Derby. ✪

Support for your family.

Support for the community.

Through a wide range of funeral and bereavement services to funding and support for flourishing arts organizations, Billow’s is your community.

The very best personal and professional care...with dignity and respect.

www.billowfuneralhomes.com

Call 330.867-4141 to contact either of our two locations: cuyahoga falls ß fairlawn

A Tradition of Dignity and Respect Since 1875

Partnering to Support the Community Roetzel & Andress is committed to supporting our community, The All-American Soap Box Derby and the production of “25 Hill.”

210 attorneys s 40 areas of practice s 12 offices ralaw.com/akron

A LEGAL PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION

3OUTH -AIN 3TREET s !KRON /HIO s Akron Cincinnati Cleveland Columbus Fort Lauderdale Fort Myers Naples New York Orlando Tallahassee Toledo Washington, D.C. July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

23

From Fishing Wire to Fiberglass The evolution of the All-American Soap Box Derby

A young racer tries out Old Number 7, the car driven by the winner of the first official Soap Box Derby in 1934.

Photo: All-American Soap Box Derby

T

he All-American Soap Box Derby is a nonprofit organization for youths and their families. Its racing season runs year-round in 43 states and seven countries, ending with the championship in July in Akron.

Building a Derby car gives parents and children time together without television or computers or any of the other modern-day distractions that can keep family members distant.

It also helps kids learn physics, math, good sportsmanship, persistence and other valuable lessons that will serve them well for the rest of their lives.

The start of it all In the depths of the Great Depression, when many families struggled to feed themselves, entertainment was either too rich of a luxury or simply impossible for most. Kids had to make their own fun, using whatever they could scrounge up.

On a summer day in the early 1930s, photographer Myron E. “Scottie” Scott, on assignment for the Dayton Daily News, watched as such a group of kids raced in homemade cars down a suburban Dayton hill. Scott was so taken with the event that he acquired a copyright for the idea and began development of a similar program on a national scale.

In 1934, more than 360 kids ages 6 to 16 showed up to race at Burkhardt Hill in Dayton with homemade cars built of wooden crates,

24

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

baby-buggy wheels and sheet tin. No word on whether anyone actually raced in a soap box.

The 1935 event took on national stature complete with corporate sponsors as well as champions from 34 other cities. They all traveled to Dayton for the event. The champions were the toast of the town for three days, enjoying a whirlwind of parties, banquets and outings. Wild Bill Cummings, the Indy 500 winner, took part in the celebration, as did famous pilot Jimmy Mattern. Prizes included a trip to the World’s Fair in Chicago, scholarships, box cameras and radios as well as Babe Ruth bats and balls.

The enthusiasm in Dayton eventually reached the ears of Detroit automakers, and Chevrolet became the Derby’s sponsor in 1936. Chevy, with a bit of prodding from community leaders, decided to move the Derby to Akron. Although the official reason for the move was Akron’s hilly terrain, there’s no doubt that Akron—as the tire capital of the world—had strong ties to the Detroit automakers. Scott eventually landed a public relations job with Chevrolet and later named the Corvette.

Akron built a permanent site for the Derby thanks in part to the Depression-era Works Progress Administration (WPA), which was designed to put the unemployed to work and stimulate the economy. The chosen site was a Southeast Akron hill that kids had used for years to sled and race. Derby Downs has been renovated and expanded over the years, but the hill at its heart remains the star attraction.

Since 1936, the Soap Box Derby championship has been run in Akron every year but one. On Dec. 8, 1941, the day after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the Derby became the first event in the nation to cancel itself in support of the U.S. entry into World War II.

We salute the All-American Values of the All-American Soap Box Derby and the film 25 Hill.

125 Years of Excellence in Legal Services www.rlb.com

FIFTEENTH FLOOR M ONE CASCADE PLAZA M AKRON M PHONE (330)434-3000

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

25

racers design their own cars from scratch.

The 1941 All-American championship was the last before the U.S. entry into World War II. The event was canceled in 1942 becasue of WWII, but resumed the following year. Photo: All-American Soap Box Derby

At its peak, the Derby was one of the top five sporting events in the nation, drawing about 60,000 spectators annually. It was televised nationally and attended by some of the biggest celebrities of the various eras.

Although the number of spectators has dropped, the race is still quite popular among kids. In 1975, about 100 racers took part in the championship; that number topped 600 in 2009.

The nuts and bolts The All-American Derby youth program is administered by International Soap Box Derby, Inc., an Akron-based nonprofit corporation. The corporation is run by a board of directors that includes some of the Akron area’s top corporate leaders.

Local race programs are sponsored by a variety of civic clubs, service organizations and businesses across the country. These groups establish their local Derby administrative and promotional organizations to conduct the program.

There are three primary racing divisions in most of the local races as 26

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

well as the All-American national championship. The Stock division is designed to give the first-time builder a learning experience. Boys and girls age 8 through 13 compete in simplified cars built from kits purchased from the Derby. These kits assist the Derby novice by providing a step-by-step layout for construction of a basic lean-forward style car. The Super Stock Car division, ages 10 through 17, gives the competitor an opportunity to expand his or her knowledge and build a more advanced model. Both of these beginner levels make use of kits and shells available from the Derby and are popular in race communities because they allow racers to ease into the sport.

The Masters division offers boys and girls age 10 through 17 an advanced class of racer, which allows them to use their creativity and design skills.

Masters entrants may purchase a Scottie Masters Kit with a fiberglass body from the All-American Soap Box Derby.

The Ultimate Racing division, for those 17 to 21, was added in recent years to allow for a new level of creativity and design expertise. Ultimate July 2010

In the primary divisions, soap box cars employ standardized wheels with precision ball bearings and weights if necessary. They are powered only by gravity and can reach speeds of 35 miles an hour on the Akron track.

Rally races and qualifying races in cities around the world use advanced systems that measure the time difference between the competing cars to the thousandth of a second.

Each heat of a race lasts less than 30 seconds. Most races are double elimination races where a racer who loses a heat can work his or her way through the Challenger’s Bracket in an attempt to win the overall race.

The annual World Championship race in Akron, however, is a single elimination race which uses overhead photography, triggered by a timing system, to determine the winner of each heat. Approximately 600 racers compete in two or three car heats to determine a World Champion in each of the divisions.

Local winners can earn a trip to Akron one of two ways—either by winning their local race or by accumulating points by racing at various venues or “rallies” across the country.

Champions are categorized as either local race winners or rally champs.

Sometimes, Derby competitors get hooked on racing for the long haul.

Over the decades-long span of the Soap Box Derby, several participants ended up in professional auto racing, including the 1983 Indy 500 winner Tom Sneva and NASCAR’s four-time Daytona 500 Winner Cale Yarborough.

The goals of the Soap Box Derby program have not changed since it began in 1934. It brings families together in an environment that fosters communication, cooperation and just plain fun. That’s why every participant in the All-American Soap Box Derby is a true winner—in every sense of the word. ✪

Everything Derby Akron library has the stuff—from helmets to films

W

hen Corbin Bernsen was preparing to write the script for “25 Hill,” he had to rely primarily on the Internet and phone interviews with All-American Soap Box Derby officials for background.

special collections at the library. “But we felt we needed to make an exception because of the Soap Box Derby’s place in Akron history.”

James believes it’s the broadest and perhaps largest collection of Soap Box Derby materials anywhere.

The collection has also put all of the Akron Beacon Journal’s stories about the Derby dating back to 1935 in a searchable database. That means if you want to look for a story about someone who raced in 1941, you can

simply type his name into the search field and all Derby stories mentioning him will come up. There are more than 4,500 articles in the database, James said.

The collection also has numerous photographs, books, construction directions, blueprints, films, ticket, newsletters and news releases. ✪ For more information, call special collections at the Akron Summit County Public Library at 330-643-9041 or e-mail jjames@akronlibrary.org

Derby car from the movie, 25 Hill

If you’re interested in researching the Derby and its history, all you have to do is visit the Akron-Summit County Public Library in downtown Akron. Go to the third floor. There you’ll find the special collections division and its 21 linear feet of Soap Box Derby materials.

Although as a rule the library doesn’t collect paraphernalia, it made an exception when Michigan resident Richard Boye donated his entire Soap Box Derby collection to the library in the late 1990s. The collection includes Derby helmets from the 1960s, axles, wheels, souvenir pins, a carrying case, posters, programs from the 1940s and much more.

Be on top of

“The Hill”

G

et a bird’s eye view of the All-American Soap Box Derby history in Special Collections.

Learn about the downhill heroes and secrets to building a winning soap box race car from past champions in the scores of rare newspaper clippings, posters and photos, official programs and design drawings.

Visit www.akronlibrary.org/main-sc.html today to start the wheels spinning.

“We usually don’t take items like that because we’re a library, not a museum,” said Judy James, director of

July 2010

Akron Life & Leisure

25 HILL

27

On Location Education UA grad is teacher to the stars.

M

ost days, Michelle Stertzbach, a 1994 University of Akron graduate, has a normal teaching job as head of speech at debate at Hoover High School in North Canton. But this spring, Stertzbach found herself on the set of “25 Hill” teaching Nathan Gamble, the child star of the film and already a well-known professional at the age of 12.

Stertzbach wasn’t nervous. She’s done that kind of thing plenty of times before. From 1999 to 2008, Stertzbach taught child professionals full-time while based in New York City as a member of On Location Education, a New York-based company that provides studio and on-set teachers.

She tutored on Broadway, movie sets, commercials and television shows. She also tutored recording artists and although she personally didn’t teach any child athletes, some of her colleagues did. Basically, anywhere a professional child was working, Stertzbach would pack up her book bag and travel. She tutored all the children of the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular for four years, she said.

In 2008, Stertzbach, moved back to Stark County to be near family and because living in New York was too expensive on her teacher’s salary. Although she loves her job at Hoover, she misses teaching on-set. “There’s something really exciting about being on a film set,” Stertzbach said.

That’s why she was thrilled when producers of “25 Hill” called her in early spring to ask her

30

25 HILL

Akron Life & Leisure

July 2010

to be Nathan’s on-set teacher.

They had found her via a website, which lists teachers by geographic area.

“Nathan is so bright and inquisitive. We’d just be reading through his textbooks and he’d stop and ask questions. He was just a delight to teach,” she said.

Nathan, a towheaded charmer, has a long list of films to his credit. He was the son of the Jennifer Anniston and Owen Wilson characters in “Marley & Me” and played Commissioner Gordon’s son in “Dark Knight.” He was nominated for a Young Artist Award in 2007 for his role in “Babel.”

Stertzbach said she traveled to wherever Nathan was filming on any given day because he was in nearly every scene. She followed his home schooling curriculum, which is set out at the beginning of the school year. She was required to teach him on average three hours a day, although that could mean six hours one day and none the next. They also had time for a field trip—a jaunt to Progressive Field to watch Corbin Bernsen throw out the first ball at an Indians-White Sox game.

She believes more film production will be coming to Northeast Ohio, in part because of the broad publicity “25 Hill” has received.

“It was great to work on a film set close to home,” said Stertzbach. “It was the best of both worlds for me.”

®

Look for these hometown favorites in the deli department of your favorite grocery store.

By Jane Day

TheLAST WORD

Blossom Music Center Amphitheater at eye of storm in summer of 1968

a cultural event that will be memorable in Ohio’s history.”

Initially, Mayor Ballard agreed to instruct police to honor the “passes” that Blossom issued so attendees could drive through the areas under curfew on their way home from the concert. At the last minute, he changed his mind.

But by the time radio announcements were made that the curfew exemption for Blossom was cancelled, many concert goers were already at the amphitheater.

Two couples on the lawn at Blossom Music Center during the opening concert.

Photo courtesy the Akron Beacon Journal

W

hen the Cleveland Orchestra played its all Beethoven show for the inaugural concert at Blossom Music Center, its music was in stark contrast to the sounds most often heard that summer.

Race riots, looting and war protests set the tone of a turbulent time. As threats of violence heated up, Akron Mayor John Ballard decided to impose a 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew to cool things down.

Cuyahoga Falls, Fairlawn, Norton and Barberton quickly followed suit.

The curfew was imposed the night before Blossom was scheduled to open. An editorial in the Akron Beacon Journal that day read: “War and politics must fade into the background Friday evening for

July 2010

Local resident Tim Prinz, just 11 years old at the time, remembers. He sat in the pavilion on opening night with his mom, an Akron socialite and member of the Blossom board.

She wore a fox stole; he wore a sport jacket with a white shirt and tie.

“We thought it was pretty spectacular,” he recalls. “...quite a coup for Akron.” And quite a contrast from the trouble in the streets.

Blossom also hosted Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass, Harry Belafonte, folk singers Judy Collins and Arlo Guthrie and The New York City Ballet that year. It sponsored “Mod Night” with The Association, and “Family Night” with The Young Americans and The Serendipity Singers.

The times aren’t the only things to have changed radically since 1968. Prices have changed pretty drastically, too. General lawn admission was $2 then. Pavillion tickets were $2.50 to $5.

Akron Life & Leisure

99

We’re one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals.

That’s more than healthcare. That’s smartcare.

At Summa Akron City and St. Thomas Hospitals, our clinical quality ranks with the nation’s most elite institutions. Only 27 U.S. hospitals have achieved this ranking four years in a row.

Summa Akron City and St. Thomas Hospitals are the only Akron-area hospitals ranked by HealthGrades® in Ohio’s Top 5 for cardiac surgery and Ohio’s Top 10 for joint replacements.

That excellence extends throughout our system. Summa Barberton Hospital’s skilled nursing unit is ranked one of Ohio’s top 8 by U.S. News & World Report. Summa Wadsworth-Rittman Hospital’s ER enjoys patient satisfaction scores in the 98th percentile. And Summa affiliate Robinson Memorial Hospital offers Magnet™ nursing status. That’s more than healthcare. That’s smartcare.