July 2014

Best Loccal Livee Music Subject Matter: "A is for Akron"

Best Local Live Theater Best Local Radio Station

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Seventh-term Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic introduces our 2014 Best of the City.

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Akron as I am.

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Medical Mutual is the leading health insurer in the Greater Akron area. The company employs Akron residents and supports meaningful charities in our community. I care about Akron. It’s nice to know that Medical Mutual does too. Learn more about Medical Mutual’s commitment to the

© 2014 Medical Mutual of Ohio. City of Akron photo © Bruce S. Ford/City of Akron

Akron area at medmutual.com/akron.

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1/3/14 3:37 PM

We’re Your Back Yard

Go out and PLAY! “The spree is a family activity, with exercise.” ~ Mom Karen, with husband Mike and kids

July 1 to August 31

Biking forms are available online and at all Acme Fresh Market stores. Spree rewards are FREE for Summit County residents.

One lucky participant – drawn at random from submitted forms – will win a new Raleigh bike from Century Cycles.

#summitmetroparks

First-time participants who complete five different rides receive a bicycle license plate, reflective sticker and vehicle-window cling.

Veteran participants receive a sticker and cling.

330-865-8065 | summitmetroparks.org

july 2014 / vol. 12 / issue 7

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/ Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic / photo by Shane Wynn

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On The Cover / 42 The Best of The City

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Features

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The Best of the City

The results are in! Our reader-nominated contest for Akron's best is complete. Are you ready for the big reveal?

july 2014

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pages

18 around town

72 untapped

Departments

8

20

/ Mail Bonding

9

/ From the Editor

10

/ Radar (Seen + Heard)

12

/ All the Best

13

/ The Gamut

18

/ Subject Matter

/ Around Town

Special Sections

Capes of Courage Mother-daughter team offers bravery to sick kids, one cape at a time.

/ 60 Financial Planning

20

/ Agenda 20 Entertainment listings & calendar of events 26 FLASH: Hope's Dream Doll House 30 FLASH: Spirits of the Civic - A Pirate's Adventure

66

"A is for Akron" by Karen Starr and Joanna Wilson

/ Good Eats

(notable food & drink)

66 Restaurant listings 68 Diners' Diary: Pub Bricco

16

/ The Interview

70 Uncorked: The 2010 Clos de Los Siete

Shaquille Riddick Local scholar-athlete and Defensive end for the West Virginia Mountaineers

72 Untapped: The Return of Blues & Brews

74

/ Parting Shot Outdoor Fun

6

akronlife

You Can't Out Plan Bad Habits

/ 63 Cosmetic Enhancement Beautiful Inside and Out

Pristine Pastures The rueful lament of a habitual grass gazer

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agenda

july 2014

V ivian Maier

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©VIVIAN MAIER/MALOOF COLLECTION, COURTESY HOWARD GREENBERG GALLERY, NEW YORK.

30 photographic works by the acclaimed, twentieth centur y street photographer Vivian Maier on exhibit at the Joseph Saxton Galler y of Photography.

Finding Vivian Maier

Plus...

The acclaimed film, presented by the Canton Palace Theatre

.JS. ..

520 C leveland Ave NW in the Canton Ar ts Distr ict Hours: Wed. through Sat. from noon to 5 p.m.

July 31 Aug. 2 7 p.m. 2 p.m.

Special Guest John Maloof, Maier historian, author and director of the film Finding Vivian Maier, will appear at both showings for remarks or Q&A.

$5 admission

605 Market Ave. N | cantonpalacetheatre.com

mail bonding

Tell us what's on your mind.

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

Publisher Colin Baker

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

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

Canton Living: Festivals, Fairs and Foodie Events

volume 1 2 / issue 6

june 2014

[Zk[^\n^ This converted Edsel houses a grill used

by Ivan's Catering.

Boomers' Guide 2014 The Gamut: A Bird in the Hand p.12

Get Your Face In Our Magazine

Creative Director William L. Teckmyer III

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

Managing Editor Abby Cymerman

The Bluecoats Drum and Bugle Corps p13

wteckmyer@bakermediagroup.com

acymerman@bakermediagroup.com

Editorial Assistant Audrey Fletcher

Thank You!

Contributing Writers Caitlyn Callahan Aaron Fowler Denise Henry Jesse W. Hurst II Rick Rodger Rodney Wilson

akronlife magazine won first place in The Press Club of Cleveland’s Ohio Excellence in Journalism competition.

The award, in the Magazine category, was for a multiple-page spread in the October 2013 issue, “By Their Own Hands" – Photography by Micah Beree, words by Abby Cymerman and layout & design by William L. Teckmyer III.

Artistic Director Kathy Baker Moorhouse kmoorhouse@bakermediagroup.com

Graphic Designer Christa Allen

More than 800 entries were submitted to this year’s competition, which covered all the journalistic bases — from college publications to multimedia projects.

Judges for this year’s awards program were professionals affiliated with press clubs in New Orleans, Los Angeles, Omaha, Tulsa, Syracuse, San Francisco Peninsula and San Diego.

Photographer Shane Wynn swynn@bakermediagroup.com

Sales Colin Baker Melissa Cooley Bunny Lacey Steven Tyson sales@bakermediagroup.com

Thank you to The Press Club of Cleveland for giving us this honor. And, thanks to you, our readers. We couldn’t produce such a great magazine every month without your enthusiasm and support.

Sincerely, The akronlife staff

Circulation Jessica Burkhart jburkhart@bakermediagroup.com

330-253-0056 ext. 112

akronlife magazine, October 2013

Look for these special features in upcoming issues.

In August, look for Cool Jobs, Best Lawyers, Home & Garden and Neighborhood: Hudson.

In September, look for our Arts & Galleries section, our spotlight on Downtown Akron and our popular Life @ 50+.

In October, look for Wine and Food Pairings, Amish Country, Breast Cancer Awareness, Education and our Fall Guide.

To advertise in one of these special issues contact Colin Baker at 330-253-0056 ext. 104 • cbaker@bakermediagroup.com 8

cbaker@bakermediagroup.com

akronlife

july 2014

Interns Andrew Keller – Photography Catie Peterson – Design Hannah Yang – Editorial July 2014, Volume 12, Issue 7 (ISSN No. 74470 57871) akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313. Copyright 2014 © by Baker Media Group, LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by an addressed envelope and sufficient postage. Baker Media Group, LLC and akronlife accept no responsibility for unsolicited material. Subscription rates: Continental U.S., One year —19.95, Two years —34.95. Call for Alaska, Hawaii or international rates. Single issues available by calling the circulation department. $3.95 each plus $3.50 shipping & handling.

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

from the editor

Breakfast with Ronald McDonald / A local’s 15 minutes of fame /

I had breakfast with Ronald McDonald the other day.

We ate at The Eye Opener in West Akron’s Wallhaven district.

He told me the story of how he was selected to appear in a Taco Bell commercial, a TV spot I’m sure you’ve all seen. In it, several people named Ronald McDonald take a bite of the new Taco Bell A.M. Crunchwrap and claim how much they like it.

It all started with a phone call late on a Sunday evening.

“Is this Ronald McDonald?” the caller asked abruptly.

Ron McDonald was used to these prank phone calls from idle teenagers, but this caller was female and older than a teenager.

“Yes this is,” Ron answered.

The caller worked for a Los Angeles advertising agency that represented a client whom she wouldn’t name. She explained that the agency came up with the idea to invite several people named Ronald McDonald to participate in a national advertising campaign about which she was sworn to secrecy.

“You will be receiving a package in a few days that will detail what Ronald McDonald we want you to do and how much you will be paid,” the caller said, ending the conversation in a mysterious tone. Ron didn’t know what to think until a few days later, when a package arrived with all the details and a contract.

“By golly, these people are serious,” Ron exclaimed to his wife.

The agency flew Ron and several other people named Ronald McDonald to a location in California’s San Fernando Valley.

There, they all learned that they were to appear in a Taco Bell commercial touting the company’s new breakfast menu.

The private house where the commercial was filmed was also used in the movie, “Risky Business.” Next to the house were several motor homes used as dressing rooms and meeting rooms. Behind the house was a 14-wheeler installed with a full Taco Bell kitchen.

During the week, six Ronald McDonalds were filmed eating breakfast food and making exclamatory statements into the camera. By week’s end, Akron Ron was so tired of Taco Bell’s breakfast food that he’s been eating a lot of salads since.

Ron’s 15 minutes of fame also came with residuals. Until a month ago, he received weekly checks ranging from a few dollars to several thousand dollars, depending upon what part of the country the ad had run during the previous week.

Taco Bell is planning follow-up commercials in the future, but the company hasn’t announced if it will use the same cast of characters. Ron’s 15 minutes may or may not be over, so in the meantime, he has to sit by the phone.

In real life Ron McDonald retired from The University of Akron in 2012 as director of leadership development and special projects.

He and his wife live in Jackson Township.

To see a behind-the-scenes video of the making of this Taco Bell commercial, visit www.usatoday.com. >> When we were deciding on this year’s Best of the City cover, photographer Shane Wynn spoke up and asked, “We have a handsome mayor. Why don’t we put Don Plusquellic on the cover?”

His Honor agreed and produced this year’s best cover for our July issue. Thanks Mayor P. Don Baker, Jr., Founder and Editor-in-Chief dbakerjr@bakermediagroup.com

w w w. akronlife.com

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july 2014 / vol. 12 / issue 7

New York newspaper editor Horace Greeley laid the cornerstone of Buchtel College (now known as The University of Akron) on July 4, 1871.

RADAR seen+heard

Countryside Farmers' Market Booming Local Economy Benefits the Local Economy

The Countryside Farmers' Market 2013 Statistics

$$$

29,379 Shoppers

“Boy with the Leaky Boot” Unveiled

Photo by Andrew Keller

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Buying locally contributes to the local economy 2-4 times more than buying from an equivalent chain store.

Buying Locally

Buying from Chain Stores

As a part of Wadsworth’s bicentennial, citizens gathered at North Park on Memorial Day to dedicate a new “Boy with the Leaky Boot” statue. Built in the 1800s, the original statue represented a young boy carrying water in his boot to soldiers during the Civil War. During World War II, the statue’s metal was scrapped and donated to the war effort.

akronlife

$642,250 In total vendor sales

60+

Vendors

New Metro Parks Name Approved for Summit County

city watch

by Rodney Wilson

Youngstown’s mayor was recently indicted on felony corruption charges that included bribery and

conspiracy. The city claims the charges are part of an ongoing campaign to sell Youngstown as “Detroit South.”

At Malone University, where squirrels enjoy celebrity status, officials are begging students not to feed the rodents, as they cause thousands of dollars in repairs. The college

president made the announcement from under his desk, a squirrel-proof refuge crudely constructed from leather couch cushions and boxes of empty ledgers.

Akron saw the arrival of two new residents recently: rare twins who were born holding hands. The twin girls, just

months old, are already said to be hatching telepathic plans for world domination.

The previously named "Metro Parks, Serving Summit County," is now being changed to "Summit Metro Parks." New park Commissioner Jane Bond pushed for the name change for simplicity's sake as well as branding. Changes to signs, logos and park materials will be made gradually to minimize costs.

A local woman recently experienced mouth injuries when a Summit County deputy pried open her jaw to remove

Ram Chooses Goodyear for its 2014 Power Wagon

responded, saying, “You said we should be tough on drugs. Well?”

Ram has engineered the most off-road capable truck on the market and equipped it with Goodyear's DuraTrac Tires. These tires allow the Power Wagon to face any off-road terrain while still providing a quiet ride on paved roads.

july 2014

Tylenol pills. A city spokesperson

The mayor of Cuyahoga Falls recently announced a new Internet forum for residents to discuss city issues. The

mayor himself started the site’s inaugural thread titled: “Falls Mayor is Awesome, Totally Not Corrupt and Even Lets You Take Tylenol!”

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all the best

Superlatives From year to year, we occasionally change our Best of the City categories to better represent the state of the Greater Akron area and its current trends. In this global economy, the “Best Steak” category exits and the “Best Sushi” category saunters in. The “Best Dive Bar” makes way for the “Best Locally-Brewed Beer.”

I never knew what superlatives were until I became one at the end of my eighth-grade year.

In that 1987 yearbook, I was voted Most Studious and Most Likely to Succeed. Those “Mosts” were given to me by my classmates, and you wouldn’t believe how important they were to me and my 14-year-old self-esteem. They gave me the boost to enter high school with a little more confidence than a typical freshman.

I’d like to think that I’m pretty much “in the know” when it comes to the Greater Akron area, but the Best of the City reader nominations often surprise me — in the best way. Your votes often represent “the buzz” in our region and give me ideas for future articles. They also help us promote locally-owned businesses and that, in turn, gives their owners a boost of confidence so they can continue doing extraordinary things.

In this issue of akronlife magazine, we focus on the superlatives of Akron – The Best of the City. Every year, we ask our readers to share with us the people, places and things that they consider The Best in the Greater Akron area.

>> If this July issue sparks your curiosity, come to our Best of the City Showcase, Aug. 9 at Summit Mall from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Our 2014 winners will be accepting their awards, and current and past winners will be on-hand to show you why they were named “The Best.” Hope to see you there too!

Think of it this way: If someone moves to our community, where would you tell him to go for pizza or a great cup of coffee? You’d want your new neighbor to support local businesses where the owners take time to know the names of customers, where the employees understand that customer service is a priority and not just lip-service, and where your neighbor would get his money’s worth and be guaranteed to have a good time/meal/drink/concert/haircut.

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

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the gamut

by Rodney Wilson

Pristine Pastures / The rueful lament of a habitual grass gazer /

Frequent visitors to this page of the magazine may recall a recent Gamut dedicated to an underappreciated, though wholly indispensable, turn of phrase known as the idiom.

The article was pretty good — I had fun typing it, at least — but I retain a nagging sense of incompleteness about the piece.

You see, I can’t shake the feeling that a glaring omission in composition is on full display in the idiom article, and I suspect the oversight may represent more than simple neglect.

“The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.” It’s a beauty, right? So concrete, so visual, though carrying such an easily-accessible metaphoric meaning. For me, though, the phrase is so true it almost hurts because I am obsessed with other farmers’ pastures. Truly and deeply fixated.

A drive to the grocery or post office is, for my family, a meandering spin through the countryside, and I admit with the deepest of shame that I have, on a few occasions, become so preoccupied with others’ sprawling fields of grass and clover that my safety and that of my blood-relative passengers was placed in jeopardy.

On our homestead, we have two small pastures, single-acre strips of sloping grassland on either side of our ancient house, and they’re both completely wrecked by the previous owner’s horses. Not knowing anything about pastures when we bought the place, I envisioned many heads of beefy cattle lazily munching down overgrown plant stalks, quietly (and with no cost required of me) sustaining their red meat muscles while I looked on from the living room window. And while we do have two cows now — a surly milk cow

and her wild-child calf, Buttercup — their sorry pastures are just barely healthy enough to keep them fed and, before we thinned our three-head herd with a recent steer delivery to the processor, our pastures were denuded and shorn within what seemed like minutes of releasing the bovine trio to the next patchy plot of green.

So when acres of thick, lustrous grass greet me upon rounding our dented SUV through a bend in the road ... well, you can’t blame me for almost driving the car through the fourboard fence, can you?

But here’s what I also know: By and large, those pristine pastures look that way through the assistance of chemical fertilizers and herbicides, very handy tools for optimum pasture maintenance, but nothing I want anywhere near my family or in the dairy and meat we raise and harvest for ourselves. A quick till and seeding, followed by copious application of liquids that require a special state permit to purchase, would convert our little pastures into dense, plush swatches of vibrant chlorophyll, but instead we’ve chosen to let chickens and pigs do their slow work on the fields, aerating and fertilizing the horse-damaged ground as they pick and plow their way across the property. It works, but it requires patience and a resignation that perfect, weed-free grass may never have a place on my land.

I recently celebrated a birthday (a fact not lost on the Gamut superfans), and one of my obligatory Facebook greetings congratulated me for “living the dream.” Around that time, old acquaintances visited our table at the farmers’ market and commented that my wife and I “looked content.” I wish these observations were airtight truisms, but the sad fact is, when it comes to the work I perform in any 24-hour period, I always wonder if there’s some better way to spend my time.

It’s been over a decade since I worked in an

office, a miserable stint of my life as editor at a struggling publishing company. But through all the ensuing years of running an awesome local business, writing pieces that inform and entertain and, now, raising food for my family and community, I’ve never shaken the feeling that there’s a person in a cubicle downtown who enjoys his 9-to-5 much more than I do mine. I just can’t stop looking over the fence at all that lovely, green grass.

My suspicion is that my up-to-date résumé and daily LinkedIn logins aren’t exclusive to a singular condition. I think I’m supposed to feel this way, that our culture has mixed up contentment with complacency, an ideological flub that keeps “upward mobility” on the list of national virtues — and is common to the point of cliché.

My restlessness while mucking out the cow barn or loading pigs into a livestock trailer is the same vague discontent felt by the office worker who finally got her Aeron’s lumbar setting just right, who’s cleared her inbox and knows her clients are completely satisfied. I once had a friend who told me that the first thing he did on his first day at a new job was log into Monster.com to check for job alerts.

This is just how we do.

I need to seed some bare spots in the pasture we moved the chickens out of last night. It’s a fancy alfalfa/red clover mix we bought the other day, and I’m excited to see how green the grass is when it starts to grow. Things are starting to look really good on our side of the fence. / Rodney Wilson is a freelance writer who can still be found slumped over his laptop, rewriting a young adult novel and, as always, listening to Taylor Swift.

Comments?

Email them to managing editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

w w w. akronlife.com

13

subject matter

by Caitlyn Callahan

An Inside Look

/ From the art museum to the zoo, learn about Akron’s history, attractions and claims to fame./

It began as a simple Facebook post sharing an article with friends about exercising. Very quickly, it turned into a book outlining the best parts of Akron from A to Z. In the message that sparked the idea, Karen Starr said to Joanna Wilson, “It’s going to be awesome.”

Wilson, a Christmas entertainment writer, co-founding blogger of Akron Empire and author of four books, enjoys writing about her experiences in Akron, sharing her favorite places, bands, restaurants and shops.

Starr co-owns Hazel Tree Interiors and is involved in several community groups and projects. Both born and raised in the Akron area, they’ve become two of the city's biggest cheerleaders.

“We love Akron, we’re community-based, we love sharing and interacting in that way with what we love,” Wilson says. “We just knew [we] could turn this into something bigger, like a book.”

“A is for Akron” was released this spring after one year of research, interviews, informationgathering and writing.

“We met at Highland Tavern, and several beers later, we had almost a complete list,” Starr says. “We’re so familiar with our town, and we love it so much. We started by saying, ‘Well, there are 26 letters. Let’s pick one and start.’”

“Some of the scenes were writing themselves,” Wilson adds. “It really just fell together quickly.”

Wilson, a self-proclaimed history buff, was delighted throughout the process to learn about the history of Akron, appreciating what the city had to offer that she didn’t know before.

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akronlife

“There are all these things, and once you start doing the research, you realize, ‘This is huge,’” she says. “It was thrilling.”

Though Starr claims N is for Neighborhoods and G is for Glendale Cemetery are her two favorite entries in the book, Wilson finds it more difficult to pick one.

“I’m proud of the creativity we brought to it,” she says. “It’s very emotional to hear the people love it as much as we do because it ends up getting personal, and when people are as turned onto it like you are, it’s overwhelming. It’s nice.”

“Throughout the process, anyone we told about the idea said, ‘Oh my gosh, that is the best idea. We can’t wait,’” Starr says. “We’ve had support for this ever since the beginning.”

Wilson says that support provided the encouragement they needed for this nostalgic project, which sends a positive message about the city and its history, to be intended for people who live here now and to update those who have moved away.

“Everybody knows everybody [in Akron] but it’s not too small,” Wilson says. “I can write a blog about Akron, and everybody jumps on board and is appreciative. You’re not stepping on anybody else’s toes by starting something new. We’re strong and we’re hardy, and we like to work hard.”

“You can make anything happen in this town,” Starr says. “Just decide to do it, and then you do it. The people out and about in july 2014

the community who were so willing to share their experience, knowledge and resources with us [made] the book as awesome as it is.”

Starr and Wilson have admitted it's time to be excited.

“We had this idea of what we wanted a year ago, and the fact that we were able to do that — and better than what I even imagined — we’re pretty jubilant about that,” Wilson says.

“A is for Akron” is available through aisforakron.com and locally at Square Records. Digital copies can be purchased on amazon.com, and signed copies are available at Hazel Tree Interiors. / Writer Caitlyn Callahan recently graduated from KSU with her bachelor’s in magazine journalism.

Comments?

Email them to managing editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

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the interview

by Hannah Yang and photo by Shane Wynn

Shaquille Riddick

/ Local scholar-athlete/Defensive end, West Virginia Mountaineers /

Ever since he was a child, the West Akron native dreamed of playing football. But, from a young age, his family—a long line of scholars and athletes— also instilled in him the importance of education. His mother, Mia O’Hara, is a teacher at Litchfield Middle School.

Riddick played three sports for Buchtel High School, including football under Head Coach Ricky Powers, and graduated from Akron Early College High School in 2011.

He received his associate degree in political science from The University of Akron and got a fullride football scholarship to GardnerWebb University, a private school in North Carolina.

How do you find time to juggle training and studying for your degree?

This month, at the age of 21, Riddick will receive his bachelor’s in business administration two semesters early, and has already transferred to West Virginia University to start training as a defensive end on the Mountaineers football team.

He plans to pursue his master’s in sports management while at the Big 12 school, making him one of fewer than 25 players in football who attains a graduate level degree prior to or during their athletic career.

Did you always want to play professional football? Were you always a good student?

Not only that, Riddick is ranked nationally among the best 15 defensive ends and is expected to be a top round prospect for the 2015 NFL draft.

Just hours before receiving a commendation from Summit County Council, we spoke with Riddick about his life in the classroom and on the field.

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SR: Being a student-athlete in college is probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever done — not necessarily for the physical parts, because Buchtel prepared me very well for those aspects — but when it comes to the mental aspect of being a student-athlete, it’s very tough.

SR: I’ve been playing football yearround since I was 8. I was never the type of child that banked on the NFL, but I always had a dream to go to the NFL. I have a lot of teachers in my family: my grandma’s a librarian, my aunt’s a teacher, my uncle’s a principal and my mom is a teacher. There are a lot of master’s degrees and doctorates in my family, so education was a must; my family doesn’t play games with that.

Who inspires you and keeps you grounded?

SR: My mom inspires me. She gives me all the drive. Growing up, she was a single-parent who worked two jobs and had two kids: me and my sister, Ashanti. My mom did a lot to

put smiles on our faces and is one of the main reasons I grind so hard today. She’s my rock and the most important person in my life.

My stepdad, Mike O’Hara, is an amazing guy and gives his all, just like my mom. I have the utmost respect for him, and he’s there whenever I need him to be there for me.

How do you prepare yourself for a game? Do you have any special rituals?

SR: Throughout the whole week, you’re preparing for the game. It’s not just preparation at the last second. When it comes to daily games, I’m more locked in and focused on the task at hand. My goals for that game are running through my head. I’m eating healthy foods the day of the game. I make sure I know my assignments and the key characteristics of my opponents coming into that game.

A big part of being good at football is game study and knowing your opponent. I watch a lot of film on my own time that will give me a hint, whether it’s run or pass or which way the ball’s going. There’s a lot more to football than running around. There’s a lot of preparation to get to game day.

When it comes to rituals, I don’t want to do one exact thing before every game because

what if before one game I can’t do that? I would feel like, ‘What’s gonna happen now?’

I do like to look good on the field. If you look good, you play good. I’ll tape my wrists. I’ll have a visor on. I have armbands. As long as I’m making plays, I might as well look good while the camera’s on.

What prompted you to go from Gardner-Webb to WVU? Do you feel intimidated by this transition?

My family has a lot of respect for how I hold myself. Through the years, I’ve shown that I’m a respectable young man that handles all my business, so they respect everything that I do. I’m locked into my senior year because I know all that stuff won’t even matter if I don’t perform this year.

What advice would you share with other young student-athletes in the Akron area?

SR: That’s my reason for doing it. I grew up on the west side of Akron, and competition was at an all-time high where I was playing, so I have full confidence in my abilities and in the hard work I’ve been putting into the game. I’m confident on any stage, and I’m excited to show that I can do it.

SR: Make sure books are the number-one priority. I also wish I would have taken my athletic career more seriously when I was in high school. Looking back, I see all the things I should’ve done that would’ve put me in a better position now. That drives me today, to prove that there’s no one in the nation that can play like I play.

How do you prepare for your last season with WVU with the 2015 NFL draft just around the corner? Does it change the way you look at things while playing?

/ Writer Hannah Yang is a senior at Ohio University working on her bachelor’s in journalism.

SR: You shouldn’t play worried about the next level. I’m going to make sure I don’t overlook my senior year. I’m excited and happy to do my all and try to help West Virginia win a Big 12 title for my last year. All the other NFL stuff will come on its own. I try not to worry about that.

Comments?

Email them to managing editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

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around town

by Hannah Yang

Capes of Courage

/ Mother-daughter team offers bravery to sick kids, one cape at a time. /

Spider Man was once told: "With great power, comes great responsibility," and for a group of Akronites, that responsibility includes making capes for little heroes fighting a different kind of battle.

Many children dream of becoming a superhero. Whether it’s Batman or Superman saving the day, there’s one character trait they share: courage. That’s exactly what the nonprofit group Capes of Courage is seeking to do: give children an extra boost of bravery when going through tough battles with cancer and other health issues.

Although this group has only been around for a couple months, its presence has been nothing short of extraordinary. The concept was born when Debby Rowland, the group’s founder, was watching NBC’s “Today” show and saw a woman working on a similar project.

“I thought, ‘I would love to do that for children around here,’” Rowland says. “I felt that it was God speaking to me, telling me, ‘This is what you need to do.’”

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It was her fondness for volunteer work and serving others that prompted Rowland and her daughter, Monica Rowland Moyer, to create Capes of Courage with the helping hands of their friends.

No details are overlooked in making these stylish and meaningful treasures, from the type of Velcro used to fasten the cape to the fabrics that are stitched with happy monsters and smiley designs.

The first cape that Rowland and Moyer made was red with a lightning bolt for a boy at their church who was struggling with cancer. Another, a tiny pink cape, was made for a premature baby, who is now a healthy 8-month-old.

The dynamic duo says Capes of Courage really took off when they dropped off the first load of 20 capes at Akron Children’s Hospital.

Organizers of the hospital’s fundraiser asked july 2014

the ladies to donate some capes for a silent auction.

Since it began, volunteers with Capes of Courage have created about 100 capes in a variety of colors, designs and sizes. Now a part of the Northampton United Methodist Church’s ministry, many people help to sew the capes, which take about 45 minutes to make.

“It’s interesting to see the fabric people pick out,” Moyer says, adding that the creativity her volunteers use to make the capes is a beautiful process to watch.

Rowland says the group recently donated Capes of Courage to an equestrian therapy camp where children with developmental disabilities can ride horses. Other capes were delivered to the special education department of a local elementary school. The students were thrilled with their gifts.

/

Kate Decker Schuett and her sons wear Capes of Courage featuring a black ribbon to support her fight against melanoma.

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“When I walk through the halls now, they say, ‘There’s the Cape Lady!” she adds.

Her church also hosts a summer retreat for local foster children, and church members — young and old — created 60 capes for the attendees, who will be wearing them during the retreat.

Rowland and Moyer recall the day they went to a craft store at Christmas time to purchase more fabric for capes and learned of a little girl who was suffering from an illness. “We took her address, went home, made a cape and sent it off,” Moyer says.

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The capes are free for children fighting health issues, but for children who just want fun superhero gear, the organization has a “givewhat-you-can” philosophy. All monetary donations help the group purchase more capemaking materials, and contributions of fabric and volunteer time are always welcome.

Although Capes of Courage is growing, Rowland and Moyer will never forget their group’s mission.

“It’s so heartbreaking to know of a child who’s going through something a child shouldn’t have to endure,” Moyer says. “Anything you can do to make a kid and the kid’s parent feel better, to put a smile on their face, is indescribable.”

To contact Capes of Courage, email capesofcourage@gmail.com or call 330-730-1883. / Writer Hannah Yang is a senior at Ohio University working on her bachelor’s in journalism.

Comments?

Email them to managing editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com. w w w. akronlife.com

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The first canal passenger boat, traveling from Akron to Cleveland, left on July 3, 1827.

july 2014 / vol. 12 / issue 7

AGENDA the essential social digest

Through 9/14 Fragile WaTers Stunning black-and-white water-related photography from high in the Sierras to deep beneath the Pacific. Exhibit includes work by Ansel Adams, Dorothy Kerper Monnelly and Ernest Brooks II. Curated by Jeanne Falk Adams, the daughter-in-law of Ansel Adams, and organized by Photokunst. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon. Tues.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org

7/18-7/20 pro F ooTBall hall oF Fame enshrinemenT FesTival A weekend packed with fun. Check out the Balloon Classic, JacksonBelden Food Fest and Fireworks. Canton. www. profootballhoffestival.com

7/25 varsiTy “a” a ssoCiaTion Beer and Wine TasTing, p 33

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7/19 The C leveland orChesTra, “a TasTe oF spain” 7/13 The C leveland o rChesTra, “sCi-Fi speCTaCular” Explore strange new worlds with music from the biggest and best science fiction TV shows and movies, including selections from “Star Trek,” “Star Wars,” “E.T.,” and “2001: A Space Odyssey.” It’s the final frontier of music! Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7 p.m.

Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www.clevelandorchestra.com july 2014

With conductor Bramwell Tovey, violinist Karen Gomyo and mezzo-soprano Emily Fons making her Cleveland Orchestra debut. The program includes works by Bizet, Saint-Saens and Falla. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 8 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25.

Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www. clevelandorchestra.com

Come Celebrate the 330!

Event August 9, 2014 • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Summit Mall Meet our 2014 “Best of the City” winners, watch them receive their awards and find out why they were voted the Best by our readers. Sample the products and services each of our local winners has to offer!

For more information, visit:

Keep up with akronlife on your tablet or mobile device Visit akronlife.com/app to download our free app for your tablet or phone. Available for Apple and Android devices and Kindle Fire.

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

Through 2015-2016 Journey to the Reef Take your own journey and get nose-to-nose with animals that live on or near the reef including lion fish, sea horses, octopus, eels, jellyfish, clown fish and more. Touch a sting ray at the new touch tank or play in the new interactive area of the reef exhibit. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7-$10; free for members. www.akronzoo.org Through 7/13 The Rubber City Shakespeare Company’s “Much Ado About Nothing” and “Romeo and Juliet” This company of 12 college and professional actors will perform both shows in true rotating repertory, presenting a different show every other night. The University of Akron’s Schrank Hall South Auditorium, 240 Carroll St., Akron. Evening performances at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. $8-$12. www.rubbercityshakes.com

Through 7/18 “Water Rhythms” This exhibit of nature-based art is by local artist Emily Vigil. Her works present views of nature within our human habitat. Digital audio and video pieces, collages, and handmade books are on display alongside the featured paintings. Lincoln Gallery, Weinberg Financial Services, 160 Lincoln Way East, Massillon. Mon.-Fri., 9-11 a.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. Free.

Through 8/15 Summer Camps This summer, the Great Lakes Science Center is offering 74 camp themes among 10 different locations for kids of all ages, from preschool to high school. Great Lakes Science Center, 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland. www. greatscience.com/programs/summer-camps.aspx Through 8/17 Tony Feher Exhibit This exhibition features the range of everyday materials Feher employs, from bottles filled with colored water to marbles and pennies, Styrofoam blocks, soft drink crates, plastic bags, paper cups and various packing materials. Although these materials can be seen as banal—even throwaway—they are chosen specifically for their distinct visual and structural qualities as well as for their connection to people. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. $7/adults, $5/students and seniors 65+, free/members and children 17 and under. Gallery admission is free every Thursday. www.AkronArtMuseum.org Through Sept. 2014 Massillon & The War of the Rebellion: Important Artifacts from the Permanent Collection In conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War, the Massillon Museum presents various exhibits about Massillon during the 1860s, at home and abroad. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon. Tues.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org

Through 9/1 Mudlarked in Roscoe Enjoy a family-fun historic scavenger hunt through the beautiful Living History Buildings. You’re handed a Bill of Lading which has a list of goods to gather in each building. As you gather your cargo, costumed interpreters will share some history about the items. At the end of your journey, check in at the Toll House and receive a discount off your horsedrawn canal boat ride. You even get to take the wares with you. Roscoe Village, along SR 16 and near the junction of U.S. Route 36. For times and prices, visit www. roscoevillage.com.

Through 7/20 Actors’ Summit: “Back to Bacharach and David” Funny, romantic and filled with memorable music, this show breathes new life into the hits of Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Greystone Hall, 103 High St., Akron. For showtimes and ticket prices, call 330-374-7568.

Through 7/20 Studio M Exhibition — A Sense of Place: Mark Pitocco Photographs of the HustonBrumbaugh Nature Center at Mount Union. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon. Tues.Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m. Free. www. massillonmuseum.org

Through 9/7 LEGO Travel Adventure Choose an amazing destination, and build the perfect means of transportation. Inspired by LEGO models of famous vehicles, you can build your dream machine. Great Lakes Science Center, 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland.

For center hours and ticket prices, call 216-621-2400.

Through 7/20 “Waylande Gregory: Art Deco Ceramics and the Atomic Impulse” This exhibition is the first retrospective on the artist, highlighting more than 60 works including paintings, glass and ceramics, most notably four Electrons from his major commission for the 1939-1940 New York World’s Fair, “The Fountain of the Atom.” Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. For hours and admission, visit www.cantonart.org.

Through 9/14 Language in Art From the early 20th century, when Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque introduced words into their Cubist still life paintings and collages, artists have incorporated language into their images. This exhibit explores the variety of ways contemporary artists utilize words in artworks from the Akron Art Museum collection. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. $7/adults, $5/students and seniors 65+, free/members and children 17 and under. Gallery admission is free every Thursday. www.AkronArtMuseum.org

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Through 9/14 Fragile Waters Stunning black-and-white waterrelated photography from high in the Sierras to deep beneath the Pacific.

Exhibit includes work by Ansel Adams, Dorothy Kerper Monnelly and Ernest Brooks II. Curated by Jeanne Falk Adams, the daughter-in-law of Ansel Adams, and organized by Photokunst. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon. Tues.Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m.

Free. www.massillonmuseum.org

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Through 9/20 A Vision to Share, A Story to Tell This year’s summer exhibit will explore the fascinating world of children’s authors and illustrators of the mid19th and early 20th centuries. View rare items from the Hower collection and local private collections.

Tour times are Wed.-Sat., noon-3:30 p.m. Last tour begins at 3 p.m. Groups by appointment. Hower House, The University of Akron, 60 Fir Hill, Akron. www.howerhouse.org 7/1, 7/10, 7/12, 7/18, 7/24, 7/29, 8/5 and 8/7 “The Pirates of Penzance” No Gilbert and Sullivan stage work boasts as many walk-away tunes as this 1879 operetta. Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster. For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera.org.

7/1, 7/8, 7/15, 7/22 and 7/29 City of Green Farmers’ Market Make the healthy and nutritious choice. Central Administration Building, 1755 Town Park Blvd., Green. 3 to 7 p.m. Free. www.cityofgreen.org 7/1 Summer Concert in the Park: Phil ‘n The Blanks Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Firestone Park, 1480 Girard St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2806 7/2, 7/8, 7/17, 7/24, 7/30 and 8/7 “Die Fledermaus” No stage work so magically evokes the elegance and effervescence of life in Vienna as does this operetta.

Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster.

For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera. org.

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7/3 Downtown@Dusk: Wanda Hunt Band Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert. Refreshments available. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 330-376-9185 7/4 Akron RubberDucks v. Bowie Baysox Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 6:35 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com

7/5, 7/12, 7/19 and 7/26 Canton Farmers’ Market Reduce your carbon footprint – buy local! Timken High School Administrative Building parking lot, Fourth Street NW and McKinley Avenue NW, Canton. 8 to 11:30 a.m. Free. www.CantonFarmersMarket. com 7/5, 7/12, 7/19 and 7/26 Massillon Farmers’ Market Get to know your local farmers. Great Escape Theater parking lot, 175 Cherry Road NE, Massillon. 8 a.m.noon. Free. www.massillonrecreation.com

7/5, 7/12, 7/19 and 7/26 Countryside Farmers’ Market at Howe Meadow A vibrant, producers-only farmers’ market established and managed by Countryside Conservancy. Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula. 9 a.m.-noon.

Free. cvcountryside.org 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23 and 7/30 NDS Downtown Barberton Farmers’ Market The freshest foods around! Third Street NW, between West Park and West Tuscarawas, Barberton. 2 to 6 p.m. Free. www. ndsbarbertonevents.com

7/3, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24 and 7/31 Jackson Township Farmers’ Market Expand your produce repertoire; buy something new for dinner. Jackson Township Park Department, 5735 Wales Ave., Massillon. 3 to 6 p.m.

Free. www.jacksontwp.com

7/2-7/5 Rib, White and Blue: Akron’s National Rib Festival Barons of the barbecue gather from across the country to sling sauce and titillate taste buds in their bids to become rib royalty! South Main Street in front of Lock 3, Downtown Akron. Free. www. akronribfestival.org

7/3, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24 and 7/31 Countryside Farmers’ Market at Highland Square A vibrant, producersonly farmers’ market established and managed by Countryside Conservancy. Highland Square, corner of Conger and West Market streets, Akron. 4-7 p.m.

Free. cvcountryside.org

7/2 Summer Concert in the Park: 45rpm Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Shadyside Park, Kenmore Boulevard and 24th Street, Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free.

330-375-2806 7/3-7/6, 7/10-7/13 and 7/17-7/20 “Twelfth Night” A comedy about a cross-dressing, shipwreck-surviving, poetry-loving girl who finds herself at the center of a not-so-average love triangle. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 7:30-10 p.m.

For ticket prices, visit www.ohioshakespeare.com.

7/3-7/19 “Starmites” Directed by Michael McIntosh. A high-energy adventure fantasy in which humans and heroes conquer the sinister inhabitants of Innerspace. They discover love, loyalty, inner strength and a great doo-wop beat along the way.

Porthouse Theatre, Blossom Music Center grounds, Cuyahoga Falls. Tues.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. For ticket prices, visit porthousetheatre.com 24

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7/3-7/6 Boston Mills Artfest All artwork on display can be purchased at the show.

In addition to the featured artists, there is also a wine and beer tasting and hors d’oeuvres. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Peninsula. $6-$8; children 12 years and under are free. bmbw.com/boston_mills_ artfest.html 7/3 and 7/4 Blossom Festival Band, “A Salute to America” Loras John Schissel, conductor. Music by such beloved composers as Bernstein, Gershwin and John Philip Sousa, topped off with the “1812” Overture and a spectacular fireworks display, weather permitting. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 8 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www. clevelandorchestra.com

july 2014

7/5, 7/12, 7/19 and 7/26 Alliance Farmers’ Market Shop fresh and local. Corner of East Main Street and Mechanic Avenue, Alliance. 9 a.m.-noon. www. alliancefarmersmarket.com 7/5, 7/12, 7/19 and 7/26 Hudson Farmers’ Market Bring your shopping bags for this healthy trip! Village Green, corner of Routes 91 and 303, Hudson. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. www.hudsonfarmersmarket.org

7/5, 7/12, 7/19 and 7/26 Haymaker Farmers’ Market Fresh produce and locally-made products. Franklin Avenue and Summit Street, downtown Kent. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. www.haymakermarket.com 7/5, 7/12, 7/19 and 7/26 Medina County Farmers’ Market Start eating healthy with locally-grown foods.

Medina Square, Medina. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. www. mainstreetmedina.com

7/5 Zoar Speaker Series: Milann Daughtery Daugherty explains how her great-uncle’s letters inspired her to write the book, “Your Affectionate Son: Letters from a Civil War Soldier.” Zoar Church, 142 E. 5th St., Zoar. 1 p.m. Free. 800-262-6105 7/5 Akron RubberDucks v. Bowie Baysox Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com

7/5 The Cleveland Orchestra, “Festival Opening: Dvořák’s New World” Conductor Jaap van Zweden will make his Blossom Music Festival debut, and violinist Renaud Capuçon will make his Cleveland Orchestra debut.

The program includes works

by Tchaikovsky, Sibelius and Dvořák.

Following the concert, there will be a spectacular fireworks display, weather permitting.

Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 8 p.m.

Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www.clevelandorchestra.com 7/6, 7/12, 7/16, 7/22, 7/26, 8/2, 8/3 and 8/8 “My Fair Lady” From its 1956 opening to its close more than six years later as the longest running musical in Broadway history, this show captured the hearts of theater-goers as no musical before or since.

Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster.

For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera. org.

7/6 Akron RubberDucks v. Bowie Baysox Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 2:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com 7/7 Summer Concert in the Park: Rudy & The Professionals Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the familyfriendly concert. Refreshments available. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330375-2836

7/8 Journey With Steve Miller Band.

Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 6:45 p.m.

For ticket prices, check out www.livenation.com.

7/8 Summer Concert in the Park: Boogie Fever/ Big 80s Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert. Refreshments available. Firestone Park, 1480 Girard St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2806

7/10 Downtown@Dusk: The Speedbumps Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 330-376-9185

7/9, 7/11, 7/13, 7/19, 7/25, 8/1 and 8/9 “Oh, Lady!

Lady!!” Jerome Kern’s score bristles from beginning to end with catchy, sentimental tunes. Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster. For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera.org.

7/10 Cheap Trick Since the ‘70s, Cheap Trick has been blending elements of pop, punk and metal in a way that is instantly catchy and recognizable. Anyone familiar with Comedy Central’s “The Colbert Report” will note that Cheap Trick wrote and performed the theme song. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park, 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield. 7:30 p.m. For ticket prices, check out www.livenation.com.

7/9 Music in the Meadow: Pitch the Peat This dynamic four-piece Celtic ensemble has roots in County Clare, Ireland. The members delight in exploring the common threads in their vast repertoire, from traditional Irish tunes to contemporary music. Howe Meadow, Peninsula. 5:30 p.m. family activities; 6:30 p.m. concert begins. Free. www. conservancyforcvnp.org

7/9 Summer Concert in the Park: Tony Rio & Relentless Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Shadyside Park, Kenmore Boulevard and 24th Street, Akron.

7-9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2806 7/10-7/12 Olde Canal Days Festival Parade, fireworks, amusement rides, beauty pageants, Civil War reenactment demonstrations and fun for the whole family. Ride the horse-drawn canal boat, tour the museum and historical sites while enjoying arts and crafts vendors. Canal Fulton. For a schedule of events, visit www.discovercanalfulton.com.

7/10 RiffTrax Live: “Sharknado” Considered by many critics to be one of the greatest movies ever made in the “Tornado full of sharks” genre, “Sharknado” debuted in 2013 to unprecedented buzz. Not since “Snakes On A Plane” had the Internet been so excited about a movie, and not since the late ‘90s had anyone been so excited about anything starring Tara Reid. 8 p.m.

For ticket prices and theater locations, visit fathomevents.com.

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Hope’s Dream Doll House Members of The American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball committee joined Ron and Nancy Marhofer to present Hope’s Dream Doll House to Ronald McDonald House Akron on April 2 at Portage Country Club.

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The elaborate doll house is a gift to children staying at the Ronald McDonald House Akron and was created by “Kids for a Cure” children’s outreach group to support the Cattle Baron’s Ball.

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1. Hope’s Dream Doll House 2. June Netzley, Patti Noel and Alexandra Houser Vukoder 3. American Cancer Society leadership council member Tamara Boyasis with Ron and Nancy Marhofer 4. Heather Jalbert, president of the board of trustees of Ronald McDonald House Akron, and Anne Collins, executive director of Ronald McDonald House Akron

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5. Megan Merril, the 12-year-old cancer survivor who inspired Hope’s Doll House 6. WQMX 94.9 FM on-air personality Lynn Kelly, Megan and Kim Merril, and Meri Skiera, program and services director for Ronald McDonald House Akron 7. Jamie Heinl, 2012 Cattle Baron’s Ball Chair Jane Carroll-Spelich, Sarah Wells and Kristy Kalnitzky 8. American Cancer Society Volunteer Leadership Council President Judi Hill 26

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7/11, 7/19, 7/26, 8/1 and 8/9 “Call Me Madam” Written by Irving Berlin, this show is based on episodes in the life of Washington socialite Perle Mesta. Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster. For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera.org.

7/12 Summit County Historical Society’s 90th Anniversary Tours of the Perkins Stone Mansion and John Brown House, music, games, activities, cake walk and Bojo the Clown. Perkins Stone Mansion, 550 Copley Road, Akron. 1 p.m. Free. www. summithistory.org

7/11-7/13 67th Annual Italian American Festival Presented by the Summit County Italian-American Societies. Music, food, wine, dancing, bocce tournament and more. Lock 3, downtown Akron. For a schedule of events, visit www.it-am.org.

7/12 Ohio Regional Music Arts and Cultural Outreach’s Jazz under the Stars series: Bobby Selvaggio One of the leading alto saxophone voices on today’s jazz scene, Selvaggio returns with Ashley Summers on bass, Chris Baker on drums and Theron Brown on piano. The concert will feature new original jazz music and jazz favorites. Uptown Park, Medina. 7 p.m. www.ormaco.org

7/11, 7/18 and 7/25 Farmers’ Market in the Falls Get your fresh produce and handmade goodies here.

Quirk Cultural Center, 1201 Grant Ave., Cuyahoga Falls. 3 to 6 p.m. Free. www.cityofcf.com 7/11 First Friday Club: David W. James The 22nd superintendent of the Akron Public schools will discuss “A Call to Leadership.” Quaker Station, 135 S. Broadway, Akron. 11:15 a.m.-1 p.m. $15. www. firstfridayclubofgreaterakron.org

7/11 Summer Concert in the Park: The Juke Hounds Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Goodyear Heights Metro Park, 2077 Newton St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2835 7/11 CVSR Ales on the Rails Beer-Tasting Train: Ohio Breweries Sample five unique beers while you enjoy appetizers designed to complement each brew.

Commemorative glass included. Rockside Station, 7900 Old Rockside Road, Independence. 7-9 p.m. 21 and older. $47-$82. Reservations are required; call 800-468-4070.

7/12 Pancakes with the Penguins Enjoy a pancake breakfast with all the fixings in Komodo Kingdom Cafe, then help with the morning feed at Penguin Point as the zoo’s Education Staff tells you about these fine, feathered friends. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron. 8-10 a.m. $15-$24. www. akronzoo.org

7/12 Movie Night at Canal Park Proceeds benefit Goodwill Industries. Families can play and relax in the outfield of Canal Park before the film is screened on the giant 26-by-68-foot HD video board, the largest in double-A baseball. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7 p.m. $5. 330-253-5151 7/12 The Cleveland Orchestra, “Beethoven’s Seventh” Conductor Asher Fisch and violinist Isabelle Faust will make their Cleveland Orchestra debuts. The program includes works by Wagner, Mendelssohn and Beethoven. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 8 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www.clevelandorchestra.com

7/13 The Cleveland Orchestra, “Sci-Fi Spectacular” Explore strange new worlds with music from the biggest and best science fiction TV shows and movies, including selections from “Star Trek,” “Star Wars,” “E.T.,” and “2001: A Space Odyssey.” It’s the final frontier of music! Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www.clevelandorchestra.com

7/12 Mantua Village Art on the Hill and Wine Tasting High-quality artists and craftsmen, local food vendors, demonstrations, children’s activities and musical entertainment. Prospect Street, Mantua. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www. mantuashalersvillechamber.com 7/12 39th Annual Music in the Valley Folk Music & Wine Festival Enjoy homegrown music by local musicians, Ohio-made wine and food, and craft and trade demonstrations. Bring a chair and your family, and make a day of listening to music throughout the grounds. Hale Farm & Village, 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www.wrhs.org

7/14-7/20 Medina County Arts Week Festival Medina. Free kids’ activities in Medina and Brunswick and free concerts in Medina, Brunswick, Sharon Center and Valley City all week long. See www. medinacountyartscouncil.org for details.

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7/5-8/16 2014 Streetscapes: Akron in Plein Air Nationallyknown artist Laurence Channing is this year’s judge for this exhibit. The awards reception is 7/11 from 5-8 p.m. with the awards announced at 6 p.m. Summit Artspace, 140 E. Market St., Akron. Free. www.akronareaarts.org

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7/14 Summer Concert in the Park: The Michael Weber Show Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the familyfriendly concert. Refreshments available. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330375-2836

7/15, 7/18, 7/20, 7/26, 7/31 and 8/8 “Dream City and the Magic Knight” Victor Herbert’s score for this show is a mashup of musical styles: ragtime, vaudeville, country music, musical comedy, operetta, opera and music hall. Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster.

For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera.org.

7/15 Free Civic Tour Led by the theater’s media gal, Val, you’ll learn the history of the theater and some “behind the scenes” info during this 1 hour and 15 minute tour. No guarantee that the ghosts will show up ... but you never know! Call 330-535-3179 to reserve your spot. Not for kids younger than 13 years old. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron.

Noon. Free. www.akroncivic.com 7/15 Summer Concert in the Park: Victory Hwy Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Firestone Park, 1480 Girard St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2806

7/17 Vans Warped Tour 2014 For the full lineup, check out vanswarpedtour.com. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls.

Noon. For ticket prices, check out www.livenation. com.

7/17 Downtown@Dusk: Zach Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the familyfriendly concert. Refreshments available.

Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 330-376-9185 7/17 Akron RubberDucks v. Erie SeaWolves Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com

7/17 Casting Crowns It’s been more than a decade since the members of Casting Crowns heard their first single on the radio in July 2003. The band has continued to promote and shape the sound of Christian music. Akron Civic Theatre, 175 S. Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $18-$43. www. akroncivic.com

7/16 Brew at the Zoo: Christmas in July 21 and older only. An after-hours beer tasting featuring Christmas Ales from local breweries and music by Cold Blue Steele.

Tastings and light appetizers included; full-size beers, additional tasting cards and food from The Beachcomber Truck available for purchase. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron. 6-9 p.m. $17-$23. www.akronzoo.org 7/16 Summer Concert in the Park: Juke in the Box Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Shadyside Park, Kenmore Boulevard and 24th Street, Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free.

330-375-2806 july 2014

7/18-7/20 Festa Italiana Food, music and activities for the whole family. Downtown Cuyahoga Falls. See festaitalianacf.com for a schedule of events.

7/18-7/20 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival A weekend packed with fun. Check out the Balloon Classic, Jackson-Belden Food Fest and Fireworks. Canton. www.profootballhoffestival.com

7/18 and 7/25 The Market at Lock 3 Think green and support local farmers. Lock 3, downtown Akron. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Free. www.downtownakron.com/enjoy/ the-market-at-lock-3 7/18 and 7/19 Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival: Ballet Hispanico of New York Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly ballet. Refreshments available. Goodyear Heights Metro Park, 2077 Newton St., Akron. Children’s program, 7:45 p.m.

Ballet, 8:45-10:15 p.m. Free. 330-375-2835 7/18 College Vet Day Are you a college student interested in becoming a zoo veterinarian? Join our zoo vet and staff as we explore the requirements necessary for consideration into vet schools across the country. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron.

1-3:30 p.m. $25. www.akronzoo.org 7/18 CVSR “Grape Escape” Wine-Tasting Train: The Down Unders Enjoy an evening presentation of wines from Australia and New Zealand and tasty appetizers.

Commemorative glass included. Rockside Station, 7900 Old Rockside Road, Independence. 7-9 p.m. 21 and older. $57-$92. Reservations are required; call 800-468-4070.

7/18 Akron RubberDucks v. Erie SeaWolves Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com TI

7/18 Brian Culbertson Culbertson began his musical journey at the age of 8 on piano, adding drums at 9, trombone at 10 then bass at 12. In 1994, he selfproduced his debut album and then went on to compose advertising jingles while continuing to make records and tour.

Since then, he’s released 12 more albums, toured the world, seen his name at the top of Billboard and radio charts. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $15-$30. www.akroncivic.com 7/19 Akron RubberDucks v. Erie SeaWolves Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com

7/19 The Cleveland Orchestra, “A Taste of Spain” With conductor Bramwell Tovey, violinist Karen Gomyo and mezzo-soprano Emily Fons making her Cleveland Orchestra debut. The program includes works by Bizet, Saint-Saens and Falla. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 8 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www.clevelandorchestra. com

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Spirits of the Civic – A Pirate’s Adventure 1

The Akron Civic Theatre became a tropical paradise April 12 during Spirits of the Civic – A Pirate’s Adventure, the theater’s annual gala, presented by Fifth Third Bank.

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Guests dressed for the occasion and entered into the mystical high seas on the Civic’s mezzanine level, where they enjoyed hearty appetizers and listened to The University of Akron Steel Drum Band.

The night continued to unfold with a special rum bar, whiskey tastings and a live auction. Guests were lured by the beauty of a mysterious mermaid, and some of them crossed the scandalous pirate Davey Jones and ended up in his locker.

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Partygoers enjoyed the music of Mo’ Mojo and The Parrots of the Caribbean on stage from their private “skybox” in the balcony. Desserts and coffee rounded out the night.

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1. Brigkeeper Barb Lawless 2. Mermaid Carli Willis

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3. Mike Poinski serves up the spirits.

4. The Civic’s Canadian pirate Bob Robb 5. Ron Davis and Kyla Williger 6. Board President Mark Watkins 7. Event Chair Ted Walter with his wife, Barb 8. Barmaids Kim Medellin, Mindy Bittle and Sarah Rice 9. Honorary Chairs Ralph and Barb Palmisano

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7/20 2nd Annual Derby Downs 5K Run/ Walk This event kicks off a weeklong festival of activities as Akron welcomes more than 400 Soap Box Derby champions and their families from around the world to compete in FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby. Derby Downs, 1000 George Washington Blvd., Akron. 9 a.m. Preregistration, $25; race day registration, $30. www.runsignup.com/DerbyDowns5K

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7/20 34th Annual African American Festival Sponsored by The Akron African American Cultural Association and the City of Akron. Family-friendly festival with continuous music from the Lock 3 stage starting at noon. Lock 3, Akron. 11 a.m.

Free until 5 p.m.; $7 after 5 p.m. www. lock3live.com

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7/19 Stewart’s Caring Place 11th Annual Butterfly Gala, “An Evening on the Greens” Judge Elinore Marsh Stormer will receive the first annual Spirit Award at this fundraiser. All proceeds help this organization provide free services, hope, and healing for individuals and families touched by cancer. Golf Improvement and Event Center, 116 Medina Road, Montrose. For details, check out www. stewartscaringplace.org/annual-events/full-butterfly.

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7/20 Akron RubberDucks v. Erie SeaWolves Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 2:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com 7/20 The Cleveland Orchestra, “Mozart and Shostakovich” With conductor Stanislaw Skrowaczewski and pianist Francesco Piemontesi making his Cleveland Orchestra debut. The program includes works by Weber, Mozart and Shostakovich.

Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regularpriced adult paid admission. www.clevelandorchestra. com

7/20 Akron Symphony Orchestra Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the familyfriendly concert. Refreshments available.

Goodyear Heights Metro Park, 2077 Newton St., Akron. 7:30-9 p.m. Free. 330375-2835 7/21 Summer Concert in the Park: Howard Street Blues Band Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the familyfriendly concert. Refreshments available. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330375-2836

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7/21 Akron RubberDucks v. Richmond Flying Squirrels Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9. www.akronrubberducks.com

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7/22-7/27 Summit County Fair New for 2014: Firstever cheerleading competition on July 23. Summit County Fairgrounds, 229 E. Howe Road, Tallmadge. www.summitfair.com 7/22 Akron RubberDucks v. Richmond Flying Squirrels Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9. www.akronrubberducks.com 7/22 Bad Company With Lynyrd Skynyrd. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7:30 p.m. For ticket prices, check out www.livenation.com.

7/23, 7/27, 7/31, 8/2 and 8/6 “The Little King” The score from this 1912 operetta features an evercaptivating blend of Viennese waltzes and haunting Hungarian harmonies and rhythms, as well as the first-ever use of a tango in a Viennese stage work.

Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster.

For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera. org.

7/23 Akron RubberDucks v. Richmond Flying Squirrels Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 12:05 p.m. $5-$9. www.akronrubberducks.com 7/23 Music in the Meadow: Mo’ Mojo The femalefronted band plays music from zydeco kings, sing in French on rowdy Cajun numbers and specialize in Mardi Gras and other New Orleans music. Howe Meadow. 5:30 p.m. family activities; 6:30 p.m. concert begins. Free. www.conservancyforcvnp.org 7/23 Yes The band will perform two of its classic albums in their entirety in one evening: “Fragile” and “Close to the Edge,” plus an encore of its greatest hits. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park, 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield. 7:30 p.m. For ticket prices, check out www.livenation.com.

7/24-8/10 “Oliver!” Directed by Terri Kent. This musical classic, based on Charles Dickens’ novel, will engage you with its pathos and drama, while delighting you with its outstanding musical numbers. Dickens’ character Bill Sykes will be brought to life by Brian Johnson, and Eric van Baars will “pick a pocket or two” as Fagin. Porthouse Theatre, Blossom Music Center grounds, Cuyahoga Falls.

Tues.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. For ticket prices, visit porthousetheatre.com 7/24-7/27 35th Annual Akron Arts Expo Weekend Events Enjoy the Taste of Akron, Thursday from 6-10 p.m.; the 16th annual Wine Tasting and Silent Auction, sponsored by AkronLife magazine and Catering by Mark DiFeo, Friday from 6-8:30 p.m.; and the Arts Expo, Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron. Admission to the Arts Expo is free; tickets available for the other events. www. akronartsexpo.org 7/24 Downtown@Dusk: Horns and Things Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. 330-376-9185 7/25-7/27 Wadsworth Bicentennial Activities Live bands, food, crafts, car shows, 1800s demonstrators, 32

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Native American display, old-fashioned baseball games, wandering musicians, kids’ games and more.

Memorial Park, Park Drive, Wadsworth. Free. For a schedule of events, visit www.wadsworth200.com.

7/25 and 7/26 Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival: NEOS Dance Theatre Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly ballet. Refreshments available.

Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron. Children’s program, 7:45 p.m. Ballet, 8:45-10:15 p.m. Free. 330375-2836 7/25 Varsity “A” Association Beer and Wine Tasting Join your favorite Zips coaches for this special event with live music. Prime 93 Chef John Bahas has designed a menu that pairs specially chosen beers and wines with amazing hors d’oeuvres and desserts.

Proceeds support the organization and Zips studentathletes. Prime 93, 4315 Manchester Road, Akron. 7 p.m. $35. GoZips.com/ZFund/events 7/25 James Taylor One of our greatest singersongwriters performs live. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 8 p.m.

For ticket prices, check out www.livenation.com.

7/25 The Marshall Tucker Band This band hits the road again for its 2014 Take the Highway Tour. Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park, 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield. 8 p.m. For ticket prices, check out www.livenation.com.

7/26 Princess & Pirate Night Wear your best princess gown or pirate garb as you explore the zoo. Enjoy face painting, bouncy houses, crafts and visits from Peter Pan and Hook, presented by Spectacular Party Entertainment. Have your picture taken with the zoo’s mascot, Conrad Conservation. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron. 6-9 p.m. $10-$17. www. akronzoo.org

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7/26 The Cleveland Orchestra, “Beethoven and Liszt” With conductor John Storgårds making his Cleveland Orchestra debut, pianist Stephen Hough with the Kent/Blossom Chamber Orchestra, and conductor Brett Mitchell making his Blossom Music Festival debut.

The Kent/Blossom Chamber Orchestra performs selections by Ravel and Wagner, followed by the Cleveland Orchestra’s performances of works by Beethoven, Liszt and Sibelius. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 8 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www.clevelandorchestra.com

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7/27 Fairy Garden Tea and Program Dust off your fairy wings and join us for a fun afternoon of delicious tea, savories and sweets, and a program, walk-thru tour of the house and shopping in the Cellar Door Store. Following this indoor tea, we invite you to enjoy a stroll through our grounds and gardens. Creative attire encouraged. Hower House, The University of Akron, 60 Fir Hill, Akron. Prepaid reservation deadline, 7/21. $30 adults, $18 children ages 8 to 12. 2-4 p.m. www.howerhouse.org

charismatic and comedic Christina Bianco presents excerpts from her Diva Moments solo show, sure to bring down the house with her celebrity impressions of Julie Andrews, Barbra Streisand, Judy Garland and others. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www. clevelandorchestra.com

7/27 The Cleveland Orchestra, “Broadway Standing Ovations” Enjoy a concert of Broadway showstoppers including highlights from “The Phantom of the Opera” (featuring Broadway’s “Phantom,” Ted Keegan), “Wicked,” “Rent,” “Les Misérables” and more.

Plus, as seen on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” the

7/27 Akron Symphony Orchestra Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert. Refreshments available. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron.

7:30-9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2836

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7/28-8/3 Medina County Fair New for 2014: New, expanded Family Entertainment Area. Medina County Fairgrounds, 710 W. Smith Road, Medina. www. medina-fair.com

7/28 5th Annual “A Home in One” Golf Outing Proceeds benefit Habitat for Humanity of Summit County. Registration fee includes 18 holes with a cart and forecaddie, lunch, dinner, two beverage tickets, closest to pin and long drive contests, hole in one contests, golf takeaway gift and door prizes. Portage Country Club, 240 N. Portage Path, Akron. $150. To register, visit www. hfhsummitcounty.org.

7/28 Akron RubberDucks v. Bowie Baysox Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com 7/29 Summer Concert in the Park: JiMiller Band Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Firestone Park, 1480 Girard St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2806 7/29 Akron RubberDucks v. Bowie Baysox Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com

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7/30-8/1 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival - Ribs Burnoff Inflatables, face painting, mobile tours, the Grand Parade and lots of ribs. Stark County Fairgrounds, Canton. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Free. www.profootballhoffestival.com 7/30 Akron RubberDucks v. Bowie Baysox Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 12:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com 7/30 Dinner in the Valley: Blueberry Abundance This beautiful barn serves as the backdrop for our mid-summer meal featuring blueberry lemonade, blueberry sauces and other seasonal treats from the farm. Reservations taken through 7/23. Greenfield Berry Farm, 2485 Major Road, Peninsula. 6-8 p.m. $15-$40. www.conservancyforcvnp.org 7/30 Summer Concert in the Park: Cold Blue Steele Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Shadyside Park, Kenmore Boulevard and 24th Street, Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free.

330-375-2806

7/31, 8/1-8/3, 8/7-8/10 and 8/17 “Henry IV, Part 1” A history play, the second in Shakespeare’s tetralogy, dealing with the successive reigns of Richard II, Henry IV (two plays) and Henry V. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron.

7:30-10 p.m. For ticket prices, visit www. ohioshakespeare.com.

7/31-end of 2014 Vivian Maier exhibit This is the premiere Ohio exhibit of the photographic work of Vivian Maier. Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography, 520 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton. www.josephsaxton. com

8/1 and 8/9 “Call Me Madam” Written by Irving Berlin, this show is based on episodes in the life of Washington socialite Perle Mesta. Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster. For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera.org.

7/31 Downtown@Dusk: JD Eicher & The Goodnights Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the familyfriendly concert. Refreshments available. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free.

330-376-9185

8/1 and 8/9 “Oh, Lady! Lady!!” Jerome Kern’s score bristles from beginning to end with catchy, sentimental tunes. Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster. For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera.org.

August 2014 8/1-8/3, 8/7-8/10 and 8/17 “Henry IV, Part 1” A history play, the second in Shakespeare’s tetralogy, dealing with the successive reigns of Richard II, Henry IV (two plays) and Henry V. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 7:30-10 p.m.

For ticket prices, visit www.ohioshakespeare.com.

8/1 Canton Farmers’ Market Reduce your carbon footprint – buy local! Aultman Hospital, Canton. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. www.CantonFarmersMarket.com 8/1 Summer Concert in the Park: The ReBeats Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Goodyear Heights Metro Park, 2077 Newton St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330375-2835

8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22 and 8/29 The Market at Lock 3 Think green and support local farmers. Lock 3, downtown Akron. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free. www. downtownakron.com/enjoy/the-market-at-lock-3 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22 and 8/29 Farmers’ Market in the Falls Get your fresh produce and handmade goodies here. Quirk Cultural Center, 1201 Grant Ave., Cuyahoga Falls. 3 to 6 p.m. Free. www.cityofcf.com 8/1-8/3 39th annual Twins Days Festival: “Twinstock! Groovy in Twinsburg” Open to all multiples — identical, fraternal, young and old — and their families. Parking available for $3 at Twinsburg High School and Dodge Intermediate School.

Admission is $4 per person per day; free for kids 5 and younger; free to Twinsburg residents. www. twinsdays.org

8/1-8/3 The Honda Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio The Verizon IndyCar Series visits Mid-Ohio for the 30th time with legends Andretti, Castroneves, Fittipaldi, Rahal, Unser and Franchitti, as well as Chip Ganassi. Watch the following races: the entire Mazda Road to Indy ladder with Indy Lights, Pro Mazda Championship and USF2000 National Championship, and the Pirelli World Challenge. Enjoy the IndyCar Fan Zone, fireworks, autograph sessions and driver Q&As. Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, 7721 Steam Corners Road, Lexington. For times and ticket prices, visit midohio.com.

8/1-8/3 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend Activities and Game Friday’s events include the Fashion Show, Enshrinees’ Gold Jacket Dinner and the Reception at the Hall of Fame.

Saturday’s events include the Grand Parade, Fan Party and Enshrinement Ceremony, and Sunday is the NFL/ Hall of Fame Game at Fawcett Stadium. Events take place in Downtown Canton and at the Pro Football Hall of Fame. www.profootballhoffestival.com 8/1 and 8/2 Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival: GroundWorks Dance Theater Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly ballet. Refreshments available. Glendale Cemetery, Akron. Children’s program, 7:45 p.m. Ballet, 8:45-10:15 p.m. Free. 330375-2836

8/1 Cintas Country Megaticket: Rascal Flatts With Sheryl Crow and Gloriana.

Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. For concert times and ticket prices, check out www. megaticket.com.

8/2, 8/9, 8/16, 8/23 and 8/30 Massillon Farmers’ Market Get to know your local farmers. Great Escape Theater parking lot, 175 Cherry Road NE, Massillon. 8 a.m.-noon. Free. www.massillonrecreation.com 8/2, 8/9, 8/16, 8/23 and 8/30 Countryside Farmers’ Market at Howe Meadow A vibrant, producersonly farmers’ market established and managed by Countryside Conservancy. Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula. 9 a.m.-noon. Free. cvcountryside.org 8/2, 8/9, 8/16, 8/23 and 8/30 Alliance Farmers’ Market Shop fresh and local. Corner of East Main Street and Mechanic Avenue, Alliance. 9 a.m.-noon. www.alliancefarmersmarket.com 8/2, 8/9, 8/16, 8/23 and 8/30 Hudson Farmers’ Market Bring your shopping bags for this healthy trip! Village Green, corner of Routes 91 and 303, Hudson. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Free. www. hudsonfarmersmarket.org 8/2, 8/9, 8/16, 8/23 and 8/30 Haymaker Farmers’ Market Fresh produce and locally-made products.

Franklin Avenue and Summit Street, downtown Kent.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. www.haymakermarket.com 8/2, 8/9, 8/16, 8/23 and 8/30 Medina County Farmers’ Market Start eating healthy with locallygrown foods. Medina Square, Medina. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. www.mainstreetmedina.com 8/2, 8/3 and 8/8 “My Fair Lady” From its 1956 opening to its close more than six years later as the longest running musical in Broadway history, this show captured the hearts of theater-goers as no musical before or since. Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster. For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera.org. w w w. akronlife.com

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8/2 and 8/6 “The Little King” The score from this 1912 operetta features an ever-captivating blend of Viennese waltzes and haunting Hungarian harmonies and rhythms, as well as the first-ever use of a tango in a Viennese stage work. Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster. For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera.org.

8/2 Zoar Speaker Series: Raylene Hlavaty Hlavaty brings Fanny Crosby to life in her presentation of the blind hymn writer and poet. Zoar Church, 142 E. 5th St., Zoar. 1 p.m. Free. 800-262-6105 After

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3UHVHQWHG E\ 3ULPH )ULGD\ -XO\ WK y SP /RFDWLRQ 0DQFKHVWHU 5G $NURQ 2+ Join your favorite Zips coaches for a unique beer & wine tasting event to support our student-athletes. *Tickets starting at just $35.

Reserve your space online by visiting GoZips.com/Zfund/Events For more information, contact Alexa Doutt at 330-972-2695 or via email at asd9@uakron.edu.

8/2 The Cleveland Orchestra, “Romantic Rachmaninoff” With conductor Johannes Debus and pianist Benjamin Grosvenor making his Blossom Music Festival debut.

The program includes works by Rameau, Ravel and Rachmaninoff. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 8 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regular-priced adult paid admission. www.clevelandorchestra. com 8/3 Canal Fulton Glassworks’ 200th Anniversary and Canal Fulton Bicentennial Entertainment, tours of historic sites and open studio art demonstrations.

Rain date, 8/10. Canal Fulton Glassworks Glass Studio and Art Gallery, 215 Market St. W, Canal Fulton. Free. www.canalfultonglassworks.com 8/3 The Cleveland Orchestra, “Hollywood Under the Stars” Hollywood maestro Richard Kaufman leads a blockbuster tribute to the most memorable music of the movies. Enjoy selections from films including “Forrest Gump,” “The Godfather,” “Gone with the Wind,” “The Magnificent Seven,” “Lincoln,” “Lawrence of Arabia,” “The Right Stuff” and more.

Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 7 p.m. Pavilion seats: $23-$120. Lawn seats and general admission pavilion seats: $23 or $25. Two “Under 18s Free” lawn passes per regularpriced adult paid admission. www.clevelandorchestra. com 8/3 Akron Symphony Orchestra Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert. Refreshments available. Glendale Cemetery, Akron. 7:30-9 p.m.

Free. 330-375-2836 8/4 Mobile Meals Benefit Golf Outing A fundraiser to benefit this Meals on Wheels-affiliated organization operating in Northeast Ohio. Portage Country Club, 240 N. Portage Path, Akron. Registration, 8 a.m. Shot gun start, 9 a.m. For registration fees and details, call 330-376-7717, ext. 148.

8/4 Drum Corps International Competition The Tour of Champions is an exciting event featuring top World Class corps. Spectators will be able to immerse themselves in the drum corps experience with exclusive fan-member interaction, pre-show and intermission entertainment and more. Paul Brown Tiger Stadium, 1 Paul E. Brown Drive SE, Massillon. 7 p.m. $20-$40. www.profootballhoffestival.com

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Voted # Fine Artist

Voted # Art Gallery Thank You, Akron, for making Gardner pies part of your family since 1945.

More than 65 varieties available at our factory store.

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or call 330.245.2030 for more information.

8/4 Summer Concert in the Park: Funkology Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Hardesty Park, 1615 W. Market St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2836 8/5, 8/12, 8/19 and 8/26 City of Green Farmers’ Market Make the healthy and nutritious choice.

Central Administration Building, 1755 Town Park Blvd., Green. 3 to 7 p.m. Free. www.cityofgreen.org 8/5 and 8/7 “The Pirates of Penzance” No Gilbert and Sullivan stage work boasts as many walk-away tunes as this 1879 operetta. Freedlander Theatre, 329 E. University St., Wooster. For showtimes and ticket prices, visit ohiolightopera.org.

8/5 Summer Concert in the Park: Rock Radio Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Firestone Park, 1480 Girard St., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-375-2806 8/6 Summer Concert in the Park: Conestoga Bring your chair, have a picnic dinner, catch up with your neighbors and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

Refreshments available. Shadyside Park, Kenmore Boulevard and 24th Street, Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free.

330-375-2806

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8/5 Akron RubberDucks v. New Britain Rock Cats Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9. www. akronrubberducks.com EH<:M>= BG ?BKLM F:BG

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You can find Lindsay and Rick at Nosh Eatery, 5929 Darrow Road in Hudson, or at the 10th anniversary Taste of Hudson event over Labor Day weekend, Aug. 31 to Sept. 1. For details, visit www. tasteofhudson.com.

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Pa l a te- P l e a s i n july july 2014 2014

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Creative Couple : Two of Three

Lindsay Neidhart + Rick Carson = A recipe for love Bent over a bin of freshly chopped lettuce, Rick Carson prepares for tomorrow’s catering event. His partner, Lindsay Neidhart, will groom the servers and the dishes at the private gathering, ensuring their feast flows to guests without a ripple.

It’s late Saturday afternoon, closing time at Nosh Eatery in Hudson. Here, the couple segues into part two of their three-part mini empire, Nosh Eatery & Creative Catering and their organic garden, where they grow the vegetables and herbs they use in their dishes.

“We have the same passions and goals,” says Carson, referring to the business and personal relationships shared by the duo. “You can’t go wrong with that.”

Restaurateur Neidhart and chef Carson say their mutual affection for fresh foods prepared to perfection stems from their childhoods. Growing up, Neidhart says she always helped in the kitchen. She baked pies with her grandmother, cooked meals for the family and did much of the family shopping.

“My parents would give me a blank check to do the grocery shopping. I loved it,” Neidhart says, adding that she continues the shopping ritual, circling to three markets a week to check off every item on her list.

Carson says he dreamed of becoming a chef since he was 14 and even planned to study under master chef Thomas Keller.

“It’s something I’ve always wanted,” says Carson, who began his culinary training as a teenager, through a high school vocational program. He quickly launched his career as a chef at fine-dining establishments in and around Ohio.

Nosh Eatery,

LINDSAY &RICK

by Denise Henry Photos by Shane Wynn

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“Family is super important to both of us." – Neidhart

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Influenced by his upbringing, Carson says his mother would pick vegetables from the family garden to prepare dishes that paid homage to her Filipino heritage. Eclectic ingredients like tamarind, okra and bitter melon accompanied pork and rice for daily family dinners. Equally delightful: breakfasts at the Carson home, which never came out of a Lucky Charms box.

Instead, Carson’s father would whip up mouthwatering pork schnitzel for morning meals. The schnitzel is still Carson’s favorite dish and the memory of his father preparing it, his fondest.

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Neidhart and Carson bring their family traditions to their eatery and catering businesses, where they make everything from scratch and dishes incorporate seasonal foods infused with global spices. Traditions shift into the couple’s home life, akronlife

where food and family blend as smoothly as their trademark aioli.

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“Family is super important to both of us,” says Neidhart, noting that her father joins the couple for dinners at their home two or three days a week.

“We have a lot of the same values,” adds Carson, pointing out that the couple says grace before every meal.

Carson’s 12-year-old son, Issac, completes the family fold.

When he’s not on stage acting in lead roles for school plays, Issac can be found in the kitchen shucking corn or out with his father picking peppers and other vegetables from their organic farm.

Forking it Over Nosh’s artsy trademark — an abstract fork — adorns the eatery’s storefront window, staff T-shirts and catering vans and, most recently, takes the form of a metal sculpture that graces the restaurant. The symbol with a novel twist fueled our inspiration to fork out a few extra morsels about creative culinary couple Lindsay Neidhart and Rick Carson.

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First jobs: He was a VFW hall dishwasher and after-hours pool shooter.

She was an A&W carhop.

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Before they were a couple: They were platonic roommates for more than a year. “He became my best friend,” she says. “We did everything backward.”

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Adventures: Globetrotting, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, hiking and dining at hidden gems off the beaten path

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Mutual character trait: Perfectionism

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Why the name "Nosh"? : It means to eat a snack, or to eat on the sly. Why not?

Their harvest finds its home in meals prepared and shared by the family. As Carson and his son sauté freshly peeled asparagus in olive oil and lemon zest, Neidhart prepares wild rice with sun dried tomatoes and fresh basil. These accompaniments are paired with a plate of pork cutlets, which Carson and his son marinate with garlic, tamari, red wine vinegar, fresh-picked rosemary, olive oil and espelette pepper.

“It’s great for all of us to prepare dinner, then enjoy the fruits of our labor. I believe that it brings us closer together as a family,” Carson says, adding that good food and conversation replace cell phones and television during their family meals.

Like Carson and herself, Neidhart describes Issac as “a real foodie.”

“I’d like him to become a doctor,” intercepts Carson, who has big plans for his son and for his future with Neidhart.

Up the road, the couple hopes to build a restaurant on tranquil farmland where they would raise the foods they cook and serve.

In the meantime, the couple keeps a steady simmer.

“It takes a strong couple to be in business together,” Carson says, “And we’ve got momentum.” / Denise Henry is a PR representative and writer living in Stow.

Comments?

Email them to managing editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com. w w w. akronlife.com

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First and foremost, I love Akron because we are a city of warm and friendly people. Our citizens care about their community and prove it by contributing one of the highest amounts of volunteer hours in the country each year.

Next, I love the fact that our city offers an amazing assortment of amenities. Akron is the gateway to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and I enjoy walking in the Summit County Metro Park system. Both of these parks provide hundreds of miles of hiking trails and include a portion of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.

Akron has a variety of great restaurants and sports venues, including Akron’s Canal Park (home of the RubberDucks), Firestone Stadium (home of the Racers), and Firestone Country Club (home of the PGA Bridgestone Golf Invitational), among many others. Akron has a world-class art museum, several performance halls including the Akron Civic, and outstanding free public entertainment venues, including Lock 3 and Lock 4.

Akron is a great place to raise a family. I grew up here, and it’s where my children grew up, and where my six grandchildren are growing up enjoying my favorite place to take them: our exceptional Akron Zoo.

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Working with Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic for our Best of the City cover shoot was a lot of fun for us here at akronlife. Our mayor certainly likes to chat, and we enjoyed learning everything he loves about Akron and his views on politics, travel, food and family. We know that being Akron’s longest-serving mayor (27 years!) has been a great honor for him and a very good thing for Akron. Happy Birthday on July 3, Your Honor!

Mayor’s faves ...

Favorite Appetizer: Olives Akron’s Best Meal: Steak at Ken Stewart’s or Diamond Grille Favorite Attraction: He likes the Akron Zoo’s lion, but his grandkids like the otters Favorite Live Entertainment Venue: The Cabaret at Tangier or Akron Civic Theatre

Mayor Don Plusquellic

Favorite Hangout: Bricco and Lock 3 Favorite High School Team: The 1966 Kenmore High School Football Team

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july 2014

by Abby Cymerman and Hannah Yang and photos by Shane Wynn and Andrew Keller

Mayor's Faves

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The Best Of List

1st Place

Featuring Akron’s Finest Everybody has an opinion, and when it comes to sharing their opinions, nobody does it better than the readers of akronlife magazine.

Way back in the frozen tundra that was our Akron-area January, we asked you to tell us what places, people and things you consider to be the Best of the City. And, boy, did you tell us — online, on paper and in the aisles of the grocery store (Okay, that last one may have just happened to me.)

Anyway, we received nearly 1,000 nominations, and we’re so excited to share those results with you in this annual Best of the City issue. Whether you grew up here, you recently chose this area to be your hometown or you live elsewhere and visit often, we hope that you’ll find some new treasures on this list mixed in with your old favorites. Want to support the “Buy Local” movement? Start here, and then put your money where your mouth is.

If these awardees pique your interest, be sure to come to our 3rd annual Best of the City Showcase at Summit Mall on Sat., Aug. 9. You’ll be able to check out our current and past winners from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and see the products and services that make them The Best! This awards ceremony and its accompanying showcase has become the event of the summer, so mark your calendars now! We’ll see you there!

All About Akron Best LocaL charity event

Best LocaL reason for Waiting in Line

First Place: Akron

First Place: To dine

Children’s Hospital/ WKDD “Have A Heart, Do Your Part” Radiothon Second Place: Akron

Children’s Hospital Holiday Tree Festival Third Place: Akron Zoo

Summer Safari

Honorable Mention (3way tie): Akron-Canton

Regional Foodbank’s Taste of the NFL; PAWSibilities Humane Society of Greater Akron’s PAWSibility Ball; and the Arthritis Foundation, Great Lakes Region, Northeastern Ohio’s Red and White on Thursday Night

Akron Zoo’s new Grizzly Ridge exhibit and go down the otter slide

Third Place: To buy

Honorable Mention (tie): “Greater Akron:

Honorable Mention: To

Inventive. Industrious.

Inspired” by David Lieberth; and “The Legend of Tommy: The Tiny Christmas Tree” by Sidney Louis Fleishman

Best neW Book By a LocaL author

Best LocaL PLace to Buy akroncentric items

chocolate croissants from Sally Ohle at Summit Croissants at a farmers’ market get Handel’s Ice Cream

First Place: “The

First Place: Rubber

Second Place (tie): “A is

Second Place: Don Drumm Studios & Gallery, Akron

Hard Way on Purpose”

by David Giffels

for Akron” by Joanna Wilson and Karen Starr; and “No Mopes Allowed” by Chief David Oliver

City Clothing, Akron

Third Place: Revival,

Highland Square

For an artist like David Giffels, his paintbrush is a pen and his muse is the city of Akron.

Writing was always the career path that Giffels wanted to pursue, even as a child. He spent several years as a columnist for the Akron Beacon Journal, served as a contributing commentator and essayist on National Public Radio station WKSU and is currently an assistant professor of English at The University of Akron, teaching creative nonfiction in the Northeast Ohio Master of Fine Arts Program.

In his free time, he can be found writing in the attic of his Highland Square home.

Having written four books since 1998, Giffels has a dedicated fanbase, both in Akron and beyond. His most recent book, “The Hard Way on Purpose,” garnered national attention in May from Esquire magazine and the New York Times. The stories in the book even inspired a clothing line from Rubber City Clothing.

“One of the things I love about Akron is the way people support each other organically,” Giffels says. “In a place like this, I think we realize we need one another to make things work.”

Rather than waiting for inspiration to hit, Giffels says he’s a firm believer in discipline and chooses to combat writer’s block with music and sitting at his desk.

“It’s far more important to write every day and push through the bad days than to try to guess when the good days will happen,” he says.

This summer, Giffels hit the road to promote “The Hard Way on Purpose” and has become a literary cheerleader for his hometown.

“Akron’s such a weird, lovable place that has legitimate soul,” Giffels says. “It gives me more than most writers could ever hope for.”

—HY akr

Honorable Mention: The

University of Akron

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Second Place: To see

Third Place (tie): “Left at the Mango Tree” by Stephanie Siciarz, and “With Just One Push: A New Mother’s Journey of Love, Loss and Survival” by Lori Dente

"The Hard Way on Purpose" by David Giffels

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Best New Book By A Local Author

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Best LocaL PLace to voLunteer First Place: Akron Children’s Hospital

Second Place: AkronCanton Regional Foodbank Third Place:

PAWSibilities Humane Society of Greater Akron

Honorable Mention:

Akron Zoo

WKDD

First Place: Opening

WQMX

of the Akron Zoo’s Grizzly Ridge exhibit

First Place: Stan

Babby rebrands Aeros as Akron RubberDucks

Third Place: Downtown

development and expansion of The University of Akron

Mustard Seed Market breaks ground in Highland Square

Hywet Hall and Gardens

Entertainment

Second Place: Akron

Zoo

Best LocaL Live music venue

Third Place: Cuyahoga

First Place: Musica,

Valley National Park, especially Brandywine Falls and Peninsula

Honorable Mention:

Summit Metro Parks

Second Place: Blossom

Music Center, Cuyahoga Falls

Second Place: Allow

food trucks

Create more job opportunities, especially in manufacturing/give incentives to startups

Honorable Mention:

Second Place: J. Edward Good Park Golf Course, Akron Third Place: Fox Den

Golf Course, Stow

Honorable Mention (tie):

Brookledge Golf Club, Cuyahoga Falls, and Mud Run Golf Course, Akron

Best LocaL sWimming PooL First Place: Water

Second Place: The Natatorium, Cuyahoga Falls

Best LocaL Live theater First Place: Akron Civic Theatre, Akron

Second Place:

Third Place: Shaw JCC,

Akron

Honorable Mention:

YMCA, multiple locations

Weathervane Playhouse, Akron

Best LocaL hike

Third Place: E.J.

First Place: Gorge

Honorable Mention:

Magical Theatre Company, Barberton

Why spend years in school to become a fashion designer, when your inspirations can come to life in just two minutes? From its humble origins in a basement to its success as a company owned by Edward Gaffney, Rubber City Clothing has been printing its clever creations in downtown Akron for the last 10 years.

Akronites (and former Akronites) are especially attracted to Rubber City’s Akron Pride-themed designs, apparel and other fun items. If you want a 33-inch inflatable Goodyear blimp or a “Made in Akron” onesie for your baby, this is the place to buy it. Want a T-shirt that celebrates lost-butnot-forgotten Akron-area businesses like Red Barn Restaurant or Lawson’s? You’ll find them here too.

“It’s all Akron, and that’s what makes us different,” says Angela Roloff, Rubber City’s general manager.

“The whole process of printing on any garment … it’s kind of crazy.”

With the ability to print Rubber City’s tonguein-cheek slogans on any piece of clothing — from T-shirts to high-top sneakers to jeans — this store can efficiently respond to creative requests from visitors, both in-store and online.

First, customers choose an item — a tank, dress, bag, hat or other garment — to have printed, or they can bring in their own items. Then, they choose from a wide array of designs, created by local artists as well as Roloff and Gaffney, hanging on the store’s walls. Since the designs are already on paper, it only takes two minutes for people to have their creations in their hands and out the door.

Metro Park, Cuyahoga Falls

However, Roloff says the best feeling comes from helping fellow Akronites show their pride and support for the city and giving them the freedom to make their own custom designs.

Second Place: Sand Run

“That’s what makes me happy,” Roloff says. —HY

Metro Park, Akron

Third Place: Cuyahoga

Best LocaL radio station First Place: 91.3

Honorable Mention:

Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail

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Valley National Parks, multiple locations

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Firestone Country Club, Akron

Best Local Place to Buy Akron-centric Items 1st Place Rubber City Clothing

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Rehab neglected properties or demo vacant houses and turn their lots into neighborhood gardens

First Place:

Honorable Mention: Blue

Thomas Hall, Akron

Third Place:

Best LocaL goLf course

Works Aquatic Center, Cuyahoga Falls

Rock Café, Hudson

violence and crime; attract higher quality independent restaurants and retail to downtown; and fix potholes

FM WNIR

Third Place: Lock 3,

First Place (3way tie): Reduce

Honorable Mention: 100

Akron

Akron

Best Way to imProve akron

Third Place: 94.9 FM

Second Place: Ken

Honorable Mention:

Best LocaL PLace to take visitors

Second Place: 98.1 FM

Best thing to haPPen to akron (Last 12 months)

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Best LocaL naturaL Wonder

Second Place: Pump It Up,

Stow

Best LocaL Pet groomer

Second Place: Summa/Akron

First Place (tie):

Third Place (tie): Rockin’

First Place: Celebrity

One reader noted: "'Tall’ Donna is the best nurse in labor and delivery.”

Brandywine Falls, Sagamore Hills; and The Gorge, Cuyahoga Falls Second Place: Cuyahoga

Valley National Parks, multiple locations

Robin’s Amazone, Medina, and Laser Quest, Montrose

Honorable Mention (tie):

Fun ‘n’ Stuff, Macedonia, and Summit Metro Parks, multiple locations

Third Place: The Ledges at

Virginia Kendall Park, CVNP, Peninsula

Best LocaL free event

Honorable Mention: The Cuyahoga River and The Falls

concerts and Holiday Market, Akron

The Snarky Award goes to the reader who nominated “Don Plusquellic’s hair.”

River, Cuyahoga Falls

The Polar Vortex Award goes to the reader who nominated “Snow Rollers.”

Best LocaL museum

First Place: Lock 3 Second Place: Rockin’ on the Third Place: Porch Rokr

Festival, Highland Square Honorable Mention: Akron Arts

Expo at Hardesty Park

Services

Pets, Akron

Second Place (tie): Groovy

Dog Grooms, Akron, and Wizard of Paws, Stow

Third Place: Summa

Third Place: Kay-9 Pet Salon,

Honorable Mention: Medina

Akron

Hospital

Best LocaL sPa

Best LocaL reaL estate agent

First Place: The Spa at Yellow Creek, Bath

Second Place: Gavin Scott

Salon and Spa, Stow Paradise, Akron

Honorable Mention: Falling

First Place: Martell School

Second Place: MC Hair and

Second Place (3-way tie):

Third Place: Rian A Hair

Honorable Mention (tie): Akron

Marble Museum at Lock 3, Akron; and the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum, Canton

Third Place (3-way tie): 2 Left

Salon and Spa, Stow

Studio MC, Cuyahoga Falls Studio, Akron

Honorable Mention: Salon

180, Hudson

Best LocaL oLdschooL BarBer shoP First Place: Barbers West,

First Place: Square Bar,

Feet Dance Studio, Richfield; All About Dance by Kristen, Stow; and Studio West, Fairlawn

Second Place (tie): Musica,

Best LocaL fLorist

Third Place: Fairlawn Plaza

Best LocaL nighttime hot sPot Highland Square

Akron; and The Lockview, Akron

Third Place: Annabell’s,

Highland Square

Honorable Mention (tie): Jilly’s

Music Room, Akron, and Thursday’s Lounge, Akron

Best LocaL kids’ Birthday Party venue

Greenhouse, Hudson Second Place: Savoir Faire,

Akron

Third Place (tie): Dietz Falls

akronlife

Second Place: Michele’s

Barber Shop, Cuyahoga Falls

Honorable Mention: Highland

Barber Shop, Highland Square

Florist, Cuyahoga Falls, and Pam’s Posies, Fairlawn

Best LocaL hosPitaL maternity Ward

Honorable Mention: Molly

First Place: Akron General

Taylor Designs, Hudson

First Place: Akron Zoo 48

Fairlawn

Barbers, Fairlawn

First Place: The

july 2014

Best LocaL cooking cLass

Second Place: Mustard Seed

Second Place: Stan Hywet

Christine Jones-Meneer School of Dance, Munroe Falls; Marquette School of Dance, Stow; and McCardle’s Dance Studio, Cuyahoga Falls

Second Place: Rich Lubinski

Best LocaL hair saLon

Museum, Akron

Village, Bath

Coldwell Banker

First Place: Western

First Place: Gavin Scott

Third Place: Hale Farm and

First Place: Eric Cooper,

Waters Spa in the Summa Wellness Institute, Hudson

Best LocaL dance studio of Dance, Highland Square

Barberton

Third Place: A White Pond

First Place: Akron Art Hall and Gardens, Akron

City Hospital.

Hospital

Reserve School of Cooking, Hudson

Market and Café, Montrose Third Place: Ms. Julie’s

Kitchen, Akron.

Honorable Mention: The

Cucina at Gervasi Vineyard, Canton

Best LocaL antique shoP/retro décor shoP First Place: The Bomb Shelter, Akron

Second Place (tie): Abbey

Ann’s, Tallmadge, and Stagecoach Antiques, Akron

Third Place (tie): Givits Thrift

and Recycle, Stow, and Land of Plenty, Akron

Best LocaL Women’s cLothing store First Place: NOTO, Akron Second Place (tie): The Grey

Colt, Hudson, and Revival, Highland Square

Third Place: Carnaby Street

Style, Kent

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Left to Right: Manager Nicholas DeVitis, President Robert DeVitis and Vice President Anthony DeVitis are co-owners of DeVitis Fine Italian Foods on Tallmadge Avenue, along with Laura DeVitis (not pictured), who is also the kitchen manager.

DeVitis

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Honorable Mention (tie):

Ino’s, Fairlawn, and La Ti Da, Hudson

Best LocaL consignment shoP First Place: Glitzy Finds, Fairlawn

Best LocaL art gaLLery First Place: Don Drumm Studios & Gallery, Akron

Second Place: Akron Art

Museum

Third Place (tie): Summit

Honorable Mention:

Blimp City Bike & Hike, Akron

Best neW LocaL store (Last 12 months) First Place: Land of Plenty, Akron

Second Place: Second

Second Place: Rust &

to None, Fairlawn

ArtSpace, Akron, and We Gallery, Akron

Third Place: Pieces,

Honorable Mention:

Third Place (tie): MOD:

Cuyahoga Falls

Honorable Mention:

Gerri’s Closet, Uniontown, and Lil Frog Fashions, Cuyahoga Falls

Akrona Gallery, Akron

Best LocaL indePendent Bookstore First Place: The

Learned Owl, Hudson

Best LocaL JeWeLer

Second Place: The

First Place:

Third Place: Snowball

Bookseller, Akron

Kimberly Jewelers, Akron

Bookshop, Barberton

Second Place: Jewelry

Project: LEARN of Medina County’s The Book Shelf, Medina

Art, Hudson

Third Place (tie): Sam’s Emporium, Akron, and Taylor Made Jewelry, Akron Honorable Mention:

Glenn Fisher Jewelry Inc., Akron

Best LocaL PLace for sPLurge shoes First Place: Lucky Shoes, multiple locations

Second Place: Carnaby

Street Style, Kent

Third Place (tie): Long’s

Shoes, Stow, and Second Sole, multiple locations Honorable Mention:

Winds of Change, Hudson

Best LocaL toy store First Place: My Little Red Wagon, Hudson

Second Place:

Smartickles Toy Store, Medina

Third Place: Off the

Wagon, Kent

Best LocaL Bike shoP First Place: Eddy’s Bike Shop, Stow and Montrose

Second Place: Century

Food and Drink Best LocaL farmers’ market First Place:

Countryside Conservancy – Highland Square, Howe Meadow and Old Trail locations Second Place: Hudson

Farmers’ Market, Hudson

Third Place: Szalay’s

Farm, Peninsula

Honorable Mention:

Haymaker Farmers’ Market, Kent

Best LocaLLy made Pie First Place: Gardner Pie, Akron

Second Place: Hartville

Kitchen, Hartville.

Readers can’t get enough of the butterscotch cream and strawberry.

Cycles, Peninsula and Medina

Third Place: West Side

Third Place (tie): Marty’s

Honorable Mention (tie):

As the head chef at Piscazzi’s The Merchant Tavern, which opened last fall, Todaro creates simple dishes using quality ingredients, a dream he’s had since childhood. For the past 15 years, he’s worked as a professional chef in restaurant kitchens and credits his “nonni”/grandmother and his father as his culinary influences.

“I’ve been cooking since I could crawl,” Todaro says. “Back in first grade, when they asked what I wanted to be, I said ‘cook.’ My family has always cooked. I’ve never steered away from it.”

Working alongside Todaro to develop the restaurant’s menu and its extensive wine and beer list is his longtime friend and the restaurant’s owner, Anthony Piscazzi. If their surnames ring a bell, it’s because they both hail from a long line of local experts in the dining and hospitality business. Piscazzi’s great-grandmother and greatuncle owned and operated the Merriman Valley’s beloved Wine Merchant restaurant, and Todaro’s family owns Todaro’s Party Center, which lies just around the corner on Akron-Peninsula Road.

“Victor is probably one of the most fun people to work with and be around,” Piscazzi says. “He’s always smiling and exudes positive energy.”

Todaro says he’s living out his dreams every day.

“I get to do what I love and work with Anthony.

We have a lot of fun,” he says. “It’s always cool to see something rise from the ground up.”

Piscazzi’s The Merchant Tavern opens at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and at noon on Saturday and Sunday. To check out the food and drink menu, visit themerchanttavern.com. —HY

Bakery, Akron

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Matter of Design, Hudson, and The Market Path, Kent

With no formal training — other than “the occasional slap to the back of the head” — Victor Todaro is establishing himself as a culinary tourde-force in Akron’s Merriman Valley.

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Honorable Mention:

Found, Canal Fulton

Best Local Chef 1st Place Victor Todaro, of Piscazzi’s The Merchant Tavern, Akron

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Best LocaL ethnic market First Place: DeVitis Fine Italian Foods, Akron

Second Place: Hana Asian Market,

Akron

Third Place: West Point Market,

Akron

Honorable Mention: Sanabel Middle East Bakery, Akron

Best LocaL vegetarian menu

Honorable Mention (tie): Akron

Family Restaurant, Akron, and Wally Waffle, Highland Square

Best LocaL famiLyfriendLy dining First Place: Hudson’s Restaurant, Hudson and Montrose Second Place: Rockne’s, multiple

locations

Third Place: Dontino’s, Akron Honorable Mention: Parasson’s,

First Place: Aladdin’s Eatery,

multiple locations

Second Place: Mustard Seed

Best Pizza

multiple locations

Market and Café, Montrose

Third Place: Ms. Julie’s Kitchen,

Akron

First Place: Luigi’s, Akron Second Place: Gionino’s, multiple

locations

Honorable Mention: Saffron Patch,

Akron

Third Place: 3 Palms, Hudson Honorable Mention (tie): Mr. G’s

Best LocaL gLutenfree menu

Pizzeria and Wings, Fairlawn, and Rocco’s Pizza, Cuyahoga Falls and Stow

First Place: Mustard Seed Market and Café, Montrose

Best LocaL Wings

Second Place: Ms. Julie’s Kitchen,

First Place: Winking Lizard

Akron

Tavern, multiple locations

Third Place (tie): Altieri’s Pizza, Stow, and Jilly’s Music Room, Akron

Second Place: The Basement at

Honorable Mention: Aladdin’s

multiple locations

Eatery, multiple locations, and Bricco, Akron

Best LocaL ethnic restaurant

Waterloo, Akron

Third Place: Wing Warehouse, Honorable Mention: On Tap, multiple

locations

Best LocaL Burger

First Place: Aladdin’s Eatery,

First Place: Swensons Drive In,

Second Place: Saffron Patch, Akron

Second Place: The Rail, Fairlawn

multiple locations

Third Place: Cilantro, Akron

Best LocaL Breakfast First Place: The Blue Door

Bakery and Café, Cuyahoga Falls

multiple locations

Third Place: Flip Side, Hudson Honorable Mention: Louie’s Bar and

Grille, Akron

Best LocaL french fries

Second Place: The Eye Opener,

First Place: Swensons Drive In,

Third Place (tie): Hudson’s

Second Place: The Rail’s truffle

Akron

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multiple locations fries, Fairlawn

Third Place (tie): Flip Side, Hudson, july 2014

Best Local Farmers’ Market 1st Place - Countryside Conservancy Farmers’ Markets: Highland Square, Howe Meadow and Old Trail locations You may not have grown that salad yourself but you’ll always know what’s on your plate when you purchase fresh produce and other locally-made items from the Countryside Conservancy Farmers’ Markets.

With locations in Highland Square, Howe Meadow and Old Trail, the Countryside Conservancy’s producers-only farmers’ markets cover all the bases with fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, home baked treats and a social atmosphere that has allowed home cooks and area farmers to exchange in a foodfriendly dialogue for the past decade.

“The farmers’ market is an amazing environment in which you see a huge age-span, little kids walking through with their parents and grandparents,” says Heather Roszczyk, the conservancy’s education and marketing manager. “Everyone’s happy to be there.”

The market’s items are kept local, which means more money stays within our communities rather than allowing dollars to float into national-chain grocery stores. With that in mind, customers can have more say as to what’s in their food. Plus, Roszczyk says, there are no secrets in freshness.

“I love that people get that access to the fresh local food,” she says. “No one can be in a bad mood at a farmers’ market.”

The conservancy also offers Countryside U classes where people can discover canning techniques, collect recipes for making homemade bread, get advice on starting their first vegetable garden or learn from experts whether the farming lifestyle is right for them.

Another event, the conservancy’s monthly “food swap” — which began last year — allows community members to meet and exchange homemade products, whether it’s chocolate chip cookies or homegrown tomatoes.

Countryside Conservancy began in 1999 as a nonprofit to assist the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in the creation of the Countryside Initiative program.

Today, the initiative includes 10 farms that are committed to sustainable agriculture. -—HY

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and Rockne’s, multiple locations

Third Place: Eddie’s

Third Place: Scribbles

Honorable Mention (tie):

Honorable Mention: Wholly

Honorable Mention: Tree

Best LocaL Patio dining

Best LocaL Winery

First Place: Beau’s

First Place: The

Hamburger Station, multiple locations, and Skyway Drive-In, Fairlawn

Best LocaL sushi First Place: Sakura

Sushi House, Montrose

Second Place (tie):

Cilantro, Akron, and House of Hunan, multiple locations

Third Place: Sushi Katsu,

Akron

Honorable Mention: Big

Eye Japanese Cuisine and Sushi Bar, Fairlawn

Best LocaL Bakery First Place: West

Side Bakery, multiple locations

Second Place: A Cupcake

A Day, Medina

Third Place: The Blue

Door Bakery and Café, Cuyahoga Falls

Cheesesteaks

Coffee Co., Kent

Frijoles

Grille, Montrose

Winery at Wolf Creek, Akron

Second Place: Sarah’s

Vineyard, Cuyahoga Falls

Vineyard, Cuyahoga Falls

Honorable Mention: DBA,

Vineyard, Canton

Akron

Third Place: Gervasi

Akron

Honorable Mention: Maize

Valley Winery, Hartville

Best LocaL chef

Best LocaL Bar

First Place: Victor

Todaro, Piscazzi's The Merchant Tavern, Akron

First Place: The

Second Place: Dante

Second Place: The

Lockview, Akron

Boccuzzi, DBA, Akron

Basement at Waterloo, Akron

Third Place: Steve Sabo,

The Orange Trük

Third Place: Ray’s Place,

Kent

Honorable Mention (tie):

Beau Schmidt, Beau’s, and Roger Thomas, Fiore's Italian Steakhouse (formerly of Sheraton Suites)

First Place:

Second Place: Piscazzi's

Tavern, Cuyahoga Falls

multiple locations

Third Place: Mary Coyle

Ice Cream, Akron

The Merchant Tavern, Akron

Co., Stow

Third Place: Nuevo

Honorable Mention: Great

Modern Mexican and Tequila Bar, Akron

Kent

Coffee Company, Akron

Second Place: Nervous

Second Place: Swensons 54

First Place: Nick

First Place: Angel Falls

Orange Trük

akronlife

Lakes Brewing Company, Cleveland

Best LocaL Bartender

Best LocaL coffeehouse

First Place: The

Second Place: The Double

Third Place: MapCap Brew

multiple locations

Best LocaL food truck

Dog Brewing Co., Akron Pumpkin Ale at Hoppin’ Frog Brewery, Akron

Honorable Mention: Bricco,

Honorable Mention: Pav’s,

Office Bistro, Akron and Cuyahoga Falls

First Place: Thirsty

First Place: Burntwood

Second Place: Handel’s,

Honorable Mention: The

Best LocaLLyBreWed Beer

Best neW LocaL restaurant (Last 12 months)

Best LocaL ice cream Strickland’s, multiple locations

Second Place: Sarah’s

Third Place: Edgar’s,

Honorable Mention: The

“awesome crème sticks” at Crest Bakery, Akron

City Coffee and Pastry, Kent

Kaluger, The Basement at Waterloo, Akron

Second Place: Jimmy

Dog Coffee Bar, multiple locations

Finley, Hudson’s Restaurant, Hudson

july 2014

Best Local Place to Take Visitors 1st Place Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

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Best Local Performing Artist 1st Place Zach Freidhof When Zach Freidhof was 15 years old, he wanted to be a basketball player.

Who knew that a nearly fatal attack of appendicitis would actually steer him on the road to becoming a musician?

During his recuperation in the hospital, Freidhof ’s friends brought music to cheer him up, and he became inspired.

Pulling from musical influences such as U2 and Trevor Hall, Freidhof began playing guitar and singing songs he wrote himself. Within three months, he had his first coffeehouse gig. When his performance was met with a standing ovation, he knew he was on his way to finding his voice.

In addition to music, and as a result of being inspired by the words and actions of Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi, Freidhof co-founded a nonprofit organization in spring 2010, “The Akron Peace Project.” This group provides tools and education about nonviolence to the local communities throughout Akron. “We try to partner with as many groups as we can to spread peace,” he adds.

Formerly from Brecksville, Freidhof now makes his home in Akron’s Highland Square neighborhood. When he’s not on tour, he loves to be outdoors, bike, practice yoga and support other local musicians.

Freidhof has traveled throughout the United States, performing at festivals and concerts, but he says his most memorable musical experiences come from being invited to play music in people’s private homes and build longlasting relationships.

“There’s a beautiful intimacy. You really get to know everyone who comes out,” he says. “It really is a beautiful experience.”

Freidhof was also named akronlife’s Best Humanitarian in the July 2013 Best of The City issue. —HY

Best Local Natural Wonder 1st Place (tie): Brandywine Falls, Sagamore Hills; and The Gorge, Cuyahoga Falls Third Place (tie): Alex Bryson, Tito’s Mexican Grill, Fairlawn, and Joe Lytz, Sarah’s Vineyard, Cuyahoga Falls

Best LocaL fine artist First Place: Don

Drumm

Second Place: Ron White

Kennedy, WKDD

Second Place: Bill Hall,

WAPS

Third Place: Ray Horner,

WAKR

Honorable Mention: John

“Couchburner” Denning, WNIR

Allie Jackson, of Allie M. Designs; Amy Mothersbaugh Roos, Ben Manista and Claudia Zeber-Martel

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financial planning

by Jesse W. Hurst II

You Can't Out Plan Bad Habits / Follow these tips for financial success /

I’ve been fortunate enough over the last month to have two different clients — both of whom have been with me 12 to 15 years — finally at the point where they are ready to turn in their paperwork and retire.

Both of them were happy that they could retire with confidence.

They were optimistic about their future and what they want to do to lead a meaningful life as they transition to this new phase with all kinds of opportunity ahead of them.

Our goal at Millennial Group is to help clients move to this new phase of life with the financial resources necessary to reach their dreams and their significant tomorrows. If clients have reasonably good health, more time available than they have ever had and sufficient financial assets, they can look forward to an exciting phase of life where they’ll be able to pursue activities, travel, hobbies and time spent with family.

I’ve found that there are five major habits which allow clients the opportunity to be successful in their financial lives. None of these are brain surgery, and none of them will come as a surprise. And as much as they sound easy to do, it’s very difficult for most people to implement these on a day-to-day basis in their own financial lives.

1. Spend less than you make. This is the hardest one for today’s “Now” generation that wants everything, wants to keep up with the Joneses and is having a hard time delaying gratitude. This is also a very hard habit for clients to pass on to their children, especially as easy as credit is to get in today’s environment.

2. Save and invest consistently. We know that the two places where people accumulate the most wealth in America is the equity in their homes and in their 401(k) plans. This is largely due to the fact that these are habit-based behaviors. Every month, no matter what, you make your mortgage payment, and over time you build equity in your home. And every paycheck, before you see it, money is deducted from your 401(k) plan and deposited to your account. These habits over long periods of time allow people to accumulate wealth.

Both of these clients are usually our most successful clients. They are millionaire-next-door-type clients who have amassed a large amount of wealth, far in excess of what they ever thought they would have. This is largely due to the fact that they have very good financial habits and have done the right things over a long period of time.

It occurred to me that as much as we try to inspire a vision of what retirement is going to be like and confidence to take the actions necessary to get there, it doesn’t work if the clients don’t cooperate and do their part.

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3. Keep debt levels low, and pay down or pay off debt quickly.

One of the largest problems we find with people trying to accumulate wealth for retirement is having too much of their monthly income going towards debt service. This is especially true as clients approach retirement. It’s a lot easier to maintain standard of living and do the things you’ve always wanted to do in retirement if you’re not making a large mortgage payment or if you’re not paying large monthly amounts on credit cards or student loan debt on behalf of your children.

4. Have a disciplined diversification to your portfolio. Setting up a reasonable asset allocation and diversification is relatively easy based on your age and investment goals. Staying disciplined with it over long periods of time is very difficult. Witness how many people wanted to get into tech stocks in the late '90s right before they dropped significantly, and how many people wanted to bet on the real estate market in 2006 right before it dropped significantly.

6DYY\ :RPHQ &OXE “Helping Smart Women Become Investment Savvy” It was my upbringing that inspired my passion for empowering women to manage their wealth. Growing up, my parents regularly enjoyed open conversations about money, budgeting and savings. While my Dad was the breadwinner, my Mom spearheaded the investment decision-making and actively ran the household budget. Over the years I learned that my childhood experience was somewhat unique, and that the financial services industry had missed the boat by not recognizing the value and unique concerns of the female client.

I invite you to join us for our next 6DYY\ :RPHQ &OXE event to deepen your investment knowledge and increase your financial confidence.

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

Learn more about the SWC at paulachesser.com. @paula_rwbaird t Connect with me on LinkedIn ©2014 Robert W. Baird & Co. Incorporated. Member SIPC.

Likewise, very few people wanted to buy stock in March 2009 when it was at the cheapest point it had been in 12 years. But buying when prices are low is part of maintaining a diversified portfolio. Being diversified means you’ll have the risk of never making a killing in the market; you will never have all your eggs in the one basket that’s going up at that point in time. But, you'll have the blessing of never getting killed in the market because you’ll never have all of your eggs in the one basket that’s going down.

5. Don’t make emotional decisions. We find that when clients make financial decisions based on emotion, such as fear or greed, they tend to make the wrong decision at the wrong point in time.

In talking with both clients recently, they were very thankful that they had accumulated the wealth necessary to be able to retire to their ideal scenario. And, both of them were thankful to us for the advice and guidance we had given them over time.

Both of them stated that one of the best things that we had done was give them the confidence to take the steps necessary to get to this point.

However, when I look at the results of the planning process, I would conservatively guess that even our best advice and guidance over time probably only accounts for one-third of client success, and two-thirds of client success is based on their own actions and habits. No matter how good or how wise the advice is that we give clients, we can’t out plan bad habits and people who don’t follow our advice.

As much as I like to think that Millennial Group is very good in providing financial advice and guidance, especially as it relates to helping people plan for a successful retirement and manage their resources to get there and keep them there successfully, the real outcome of client financial success is up to them and whether or not they build the habits necessary to get to a life of significant tomorrows.

Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other entity. Investments in securities do not offer a fixed rate of return.

Principal, yield and/or share price will fluctuate with changes in market conditions and, when sold or redeemed, you may receive more or less than originally invested. No system or financial planning strategy can guarantee future results. Therefore, no current or prospective client should assume that future performance or any specific investment, investment strategy or product will be profitable. / Jesse W. Hurst II is a Certified Financial Planner and co-founder of the Millennial Group.

Comments?

Email them to managing editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@ bakermediagroup.com.

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We build relationships, then portfolios.

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

Fees You Should Avoid Nonprofit credit counseling agency helps consumers eliminate fees from daily finances, save more money.

It seems there’s a fee for everything. It can be hard to keep track of all of the bank account fees, credit card fees and convenience fees consumers are charged – and it’s even harder to know which fees can be avoided altogether.

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

Thomas M. Presper CFP® Certified Financial Planner, Partner

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

Will your money retire before you do?

Meghan MacDonald, Agent Registered Representative Bus: 330-929-2500

The sooner you start investing, the more likely you are to reach your long-term goals.

Ask me about State Farm Mutual Funds®.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

CALL ME TODAY.

Before investing, consider the funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. Contact State Farm VP Management Corp (1-800-447-4930) for a prospectus or summary prospectus containing this and other information.

Read it carefully. Securities are not FDIC insured, are not bank guaranteed and are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal.

AP2013/03/0938 State Farm VP Management Corp. One State Farm Plaza, Bloomington, Illinois 61710-0001. Neither State Farm nor its agents provide investment, tax, or legal advice.

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“In many cases, people don’t realize how much they’re paying out, as the charges are automatically deducted from checking accounts or tacked onto credit card statements. It can seriously add up from month to month, year to year,” says Mike Sullivan, chief education officer for Take Charge America Inc., a national nonprofit credit counseling and debt management agency.

Sullivan outlines a few fees consumers should avoid: Checking account fees: Consumers who pay a monthly or per-check fee should consider switching to a free account. Many online banks, credit unions and traditional banks offer truly free checking.

Low account balance fees: Many banks charge fees on accounts that fall below a required minimum balance. This fee is a waste, as there are plenty of institutions that don’t set a minimum.

Inactivity fees: Some banks charge clients for inactivity, automatically deducting funds from an account that hasn’t been used over a specified period of time. It’s better for consumers to switch banks or close their accounts rather than pay inactivity fees.

Credit card fees: Many credit card companies charge an annual fee, usually to the tune of $50 or more. Consumers should consider transferring balances to low-interest, no-fee cards, and close the credit cards with annual fees. Moreover, consumers who are racking up over-limit or late fees may want to consider signing up for alerts warning them when they’re nearing their limit or due date.

Extended warranties: Warranties are usually offered on pricey items such as computers and televisions, but they’re not a good use of money. Many big-ticket products already include a manufacturer’s warranty, and consumers who use credit cards with purchase protection will have that safety net, too.

cosmetic enhacement

by Hannah Yang

Beautiful Inside and Out

/ The secret to unlocking beauty doesn’t have to mean going to the extremes./

While the key to inner beauty is confidence, it’s ok to speed up the process with new technologies that don’t involve going under the knife.

We spoke with two aesthetic-savvy Akron doctors on the latest innovations in cosmetic enhancement. They shared tips with us on how patients can work with doctors to get the look they want at a price they can afford.

The Key to Confidence

varies, but Iati says his office works with each patient to make sure affordability is always an option.

“Prices range from a few hundred dollars to thousands depending on the extent of the work and can be done in a single appointment or over several months,” he says.

“Financing is available for select terms, and we maximize the patient’s insurance benefits as much as humanly possible.”

While whitening and cleaning are the most common options for people who come into the office, Stow Dental Group offers other popular wrinkle-reducing treatments includ-

ing Botox and Juvederm.

“Modern cosmetic reconstructive dentistry is truly amazing,” Iati says. “It is painless and predictable, as well as long lasting, if done correctly. It must be well-planned out and communicated well to the patient in order to get the best results.”

No matter what kind of procedure a patient wants, Stow Dental Group is there to help people find what they’re looking for.

“The smile is the gateway to the soul,” Iati says.

Dr. Mark Iati will help you show off your smile.

Stow Dental Group has been offering services in cosmetic dentistry almost 50 years.

Anything from non-invasive procedures, such as whitening or cleaning teeth to full-on dental makeovers, the clinic has been there to help all patients through treatments.

Maybe the fountain of youth isn’t a fountain at all

Dr. Mark Iati says the benefits of paying attention to your smile are limitless. A patient can have better chewing capabilities, less chance of infections and the avoidance of headaches linked to Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ) in the lower jaw muscles.

Mark A. Iati DDS., FAGD Cosmetic, Reconstructive, TMJ, General Dentistry, Botox and Juvederm

“Treatment is not painful if the patient doesn’t delay seeking help,” Iati says. “The more broken-down and infected the situation is, the more complex and potential pitfalls exist when treating. The absolute best time to get dental care is when you’re not in pain.”

Stow Dental Group The Fusion of Art and TECHNOLOGY 3506 Darrow Road Stow, Ohio 44224 330.688.6456 www.stowdental.com

Stow Dental Group takes a unique approach to the dental health of its patients. Many of the procedures performed have a cosmetic component. The clinic offers porcelain crowns, veneers, dentures and implants. The cost and treatment time for each procedure

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Less Risk, Less Cost Akron Skin Center’s Dr. James Libecco shares valuable skin care tips.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), one in five people will be diagnosed with skin cancer during his or her lifetime.

Taking care of your skin is an important aspect of looking and feeling great, says Dr. James Libecco, of the Akron Skin Center. Tanning may be one of society’s popular trends, but many people forget that their skin is susceptible to the sun’s harmful rays which can increase the risk for skin cancers. Not only that, excessive exposure to the sun can cause wrinkling and spots on your skin, which can give an individual the appearance of aging.

To protect the skin outdoors, the AAD recommends the usage of sunscreen and encourages everyone to seek shade between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are at their peak.

50 is the New 30 A report from the experts

After beauty icons and powerhouses like Michelle Obama and Barbie turned 50 this year, 2014 became the year to reexamine how we perceive that big birthday. Previously dreaded as a precursor of sagging, wrinkles and hair loss, the newest bunch of celebrities to become quinquagenarians are defying what it means to be a traditional 50 year old.

The general consensus is that the big 5-0 has never felt (or looked) better. In celebration of its own 50th anniversary, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery conducted a groundbreaking survey of over 500 women age 50 and over to get their take on the changing face of 50. An overwhelming majority concluded that 50 is the new 30.

The AAFPRS’ 50th Anniversary celebration took place in late May in conjunction with the 11th International Symposium of Facial Plastic Surgery in New York City. Experts from around the world converged at the Marriott Marquis to share ideas and knowledge of facial plastic surgery. This interactive, multidisciplinary symposium featured a world-class international faculty presenting on the most innovative developments in the field from around the globe.

The AAFPRS will provide consumers with free information, brochures and a list of qualified facial plastic surgeons in any area by visiting the AAFPRS website at www.facemd.org.

Source: AAFRPS akronlife

“We don’t feel that people should be embarrassed by their skin. People are often afraid that they look out of place or feel too old to be seen,” he says. “Sometimes people say that they feel they’re being vain, but in reality, we look at patients' concern about their skin health as a marker of good mental health.”

Once new patients understand which area of their body is of concern, Libecco provides a consultation. During this meeting, he will discuss possible treatments and what levels of improvement the patient can expect.

“Realistic expectations are important, and expected costs for those improvements should be made clear,” he says. “Some of these treatments are helpful in reducing the risk of skin cancer or ongoing sun damage, which affects so many of our patients.”

Thanks to innovations in medicine and cosmetic enhancement, the Akron Skin Center offers a variety of treatments that are both noninvasive and less costly — such as Botox and Juvederm — which act as fillers to tighten wrinkles. A new version of Juvederm, called Voluma, can lift the entire lower face without having a facelift procedure.

Another popular option is the Forever Young BBL which uses lasers to treat skin pigments, redness and blemishes.

The pain associated with cosmetic enhancement procedures can sometimes cause patients to cringe even more than price. However, Libecco ensures that each person is comfortable during his or her treatments.

In fact, most procedures don’t even require anesthesia.

“Some procedures can have more discomfort than others, and we try to ensure patients understand what they can expect,” he says. “We try to provide multiple levels of comfort like chilled-air anesthesia, stress balls, relaxing music and simple things, like hand-holding, when necessary. We want to be sure that patients are comfortable and happy with their outcomes.”

“Women in their 50s want to feel vibrant, beautiful and desirable, but they demand a natural result,” says Dr. Ed Farrior, president of the AAFPRS. “Women simply want to be the best, most confident version of themselves. The constant advances in safe and effective minimally invasive and non-invasive treatment options are truly empowering women to age backwards.”

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Libecco says patients often come to his office feeling self-conscious about flaws in their skin, but he says there’s no need for them to hide.

There are treatments available that will allow patients to be confident about their appearance.

july 2014

When it comes to skin enhancement procedures, prices range from $100 to $2,000 depending on what treatment is being used, how much time it takes to perform the treatment and what materials are required to perform the procedure. “Financing is available through Care Credit, although most patients pay at the time of the treatment,” Libecco says.

Akron Skin Center focuses primarily on aging skin, brown and red spots, and wrinkles. These skin issues can all be treated with injections of either Botox or Juvederm or with lasers like Forever Young BBL. When he’s helping his patients decide on a treatment for a skin problem, Libecco says while invasive treatments are still being used, modern research has led to the creation of non-invasive procedures. Whatever the patient chooses for his or her needs, the Akron Skin Center is there to help every step of the way.

“There is still a great place for more invasive treatments,” he says. “But there are so many good non-invasive procedures with very minimal downtime now, that we can address most patient needs with less risk and less cost.” / Writer Hannah Yang is a senior at Ohio University working on her bachelor’s in journalism.

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good eats

restaurants

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.

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

Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices. 250 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330376-0600 $ B, L, D, T Aladdin’s Eatery Outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-535-0110; First and Main streets (Hudson) 330-656-0560; 3895 Medina Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-665-3102 $$$ L, D, A, T Angello’s Historic building with an Italian neighborhood feel. 4905 Tuscarawas St. W. (Canton) 330-477-1486 $$ L, D, A, T Arcadia Grille Authentic Italian cuisine with pasta and chops. Breakfast served Sat. and Sun. A local favorite for more than 85 years. 321 Court Ave. (Canton: Downtown) 330-454-6055 $$ B, L, D, A Arnie’s West Branch Steak House Casual dining, specializing in steak, ribs and seafood. Closed Sun. 5343 State Route 14 (Ravenna) 330-297-1717 $$$ D, A, T Babushka’s Kitchen Old World food with a Polish influence. Handmade fresh kielbasa, stuffed cabbage, pierogi, paprikash and more. 6531 Brecksville Road (Independence) 216-447-9275 $$ L, D, T Bar145 This Gastropub features bar fare and an extensive menu of burgers made with Niman Ranch beef. 100 E. Erie St. (Kent) 330-968-6201 $$ L, D, A, T BayLobsters Fish Market & Café Open since May 2012, the café serves seafood meals fresh and hot, including Captain John’s award-winning fish and chips, crab cakes, lobster rolls, grilled salmon, fish tacos and po’ boys. 9224 Darrow Road (Twinsburg) 330-486-0713 $$$ L, D, T Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Fairlawn Hilton. 3180 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-5577 $$$$ L, D, A, T Beau’s on the River Stunning views of the falls with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary décor. Fusion/eclectic cuisine, lunch buffet and Sunday brunch. Sheraton Suites Akron/ Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330920-7530 $$$ B, L, D, A, T

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Belgrade Gardens Famous for fried chicken and home-style cooking. 401 E. State St. (Barberton) 330-745-0113; 3476 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-3396 $$$ L, D, A, T Bellacino’s Known for grinders, pizza, pasta and fresh salads. Full bar, patio and banquet room with dance floor. 3657 Fishcreek Rd. (Stow) 330-6783000 $$ L, D, A, T Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood.

137 Court Ave. SW (Canton: Downtown) 330-4538424 $$$$ L, D, A, T Bennett’s Family Restaurant Comfort food, standard American fare. 13211 Cleveland Ave. NW (Uniontown) 330-699-9291 $ B, L, D, T No credit cards Beside the Point Café Specialty sandwiches, main-event salads, homemade soups and hot kitchen creations at this West Point Market restaurant. 1711 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-8642151 $$ B, L, D, T Bianca’s Italian Ristorante & Lounge Traditional Italian, juicy steaks and fresh seafood.

4284 Beverly Hills Dr. (Brunswick) 330-225-0927 $$$ L, D, A, T Big Eye Japanese Cuisine and Sushi Bar Menu offers a wide variety of sushi as well as salads, soups, appetizers, cooked entrees and vegan options to suit everyone at your table. Closed on Sundays. 2965 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-8364433 $$$ L, D, A, T The Bistro at Gervasi Vineyard Situated on a 55-acre estate in a renovated historic barn that overlooks a beautiful lake. Serving rustic Italian fare using only fresh and seasonal ingredients. Closed Mon. Open for lunch Sat. and Sun. 1700 55th St. NE (Canton) 330-497-1000 $$$ L, D, A Bistro on Main House-made desserts, hand-cut steaks and fresh pasta. Closed Sun. 1313 W. Main St. (Kent) 330-673-9900 $$$ L, D, A, T Blue Canyon Creative American cuisine in six nature-inspired dining environments. Sunday brunch buffet. 8960 Wilcox Dr. (Twinsburg) 330486-2583 $$$$ L, D, A, T Blue Door Café and Bakery Sandwiches, quiche, soup, crepes and omelets. Open Wed.-Sun., 7 a.m.-3 p.m. 1970 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330926-9774 $$ B, L, T Bombay Sitar Fine Indian cuisine. Food is natural and prepared fresh daily. 5111 Fulton Dr NW (Canton) 330-305-0671 $$ L, D, T Bricco Open since Sept. 2003, this restaurant is known for its eclectic seasonal menu, wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. Open Sunday for dinner only. 1 W. Exchange St. (Akron) 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Bricco in Kent Menu is modeled after the original Bricco in downtown Akron. A la carte july 2014

brunch on Sunday. 210 S. Depeyster St. (Kent) 330677-1335 $$$ L, D, A, T The Burntwood Tavern Owned by the same couple that runs the other Burntwood locations in Rocky River, Brecksville, Chagrin Falls and Solon, this restaurant’s menu features steaks, sliders, hand cut fries, smoked, planked, and wood-grilled food.

2291 Riverfront Pkwy. (Cuyahoga Falls) www. burntwoodtavern.com $$$ L, D, A, T Café Bricco This menu is a smaller version of the one at the original Bricco location downtown.

Doubletree Hotel, 3150 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-835-2203 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Caffé Gelato Italian coffee drinks, paninis, salads, soups, pizza, desserts and homemade Italian gelato.

Coffee house nights with live entertainment. 506 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330-494-1123 $ B, L, D, T Capri Pizza Pizza, pasta, wings and barbeque ribs.

810 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-762-9131 $ L, D, T Casa Del Ranchero Authentic Mexican. Try a 44-ounce jumbo lime margarita, Arroz Con Pollo and flan for dessert. Kids’ menu and vegetarian menu. 562 W. Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330753-8494 $$ L, D, A, T Casa Del Rio Mexican dining. 839 High St. (Wadsworth) 330-335-4001 $$ L, D, A, T Cellar 59 Wine Bar & Wine Shop The menu in this renovated 19th century farmhouse features small plates and desserts, as well as bottles of wine and craft beer. Closed Sunday and Monday. 3984 Kent Road (Stow) 330-688-2684 $$$ L, D, A, T Chicken Manor Restaurant Menu includes pasta, seafood, steaks and chops. Kids’ and seniors’ menu. Closed Mon. 8043 Cleveland Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-499-2159 $$ L, D, T China Gourmet Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin and Cantonese dishes. Known for General Tso’s Chicken. 1971 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-8678838 $$$ L, D, A, T Chowder House Café Salads, soups, sandwiches and clam chowder. Bring your own wine and beer ($5 corkage fee). Open Sun. for brunch only. 2028 Chestnut Blvd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-794-7102 $$$ L, D, T No credit cards Cilantro Upscale Thai and Japanese, extensive menu, fresh ingredients, hand-selected sushi and no MSG. Eclectic atmosphere. 326 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-434-2876 $$$ L, D, A, T Cleats Club Seat Grille This sports pub and grill features burgers, “the official chicken wing of the Cleveland Indians” and the longest happy hour around, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Entertainment at 10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 469 College St. (Wadsworth) 330-3345151 $$ L, D, A, T The Corkscrew Saloon Specializes in fresh seafood, steaks and chops, prepared by executive

chef Ryan Marino. Live entertainment Wednesday nights. 811 W. Liberty (Medina) 330-725-0220 $$$$ L, D, A, T Cortabella’s Italian Eatery In addition to a soup, salad and pasta bar, the menu includes seafood, poultry, steak, pizzas and calzones, desserts and a wine list and full bar. 10 Tallmadge Circle (Tallmadge) 330-633-7844 $$ L, D, A, T Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 57 E. Market St. (Akron) 330-253-1234 $$ L, D, A, T, V Ceedo’s Eatery Traditional Middle Eastern food — kosher and halal — including shwarma and falafel, stuffed whole lamb, hummus, tabbouleh and kibbeh. Closed Monday. 4147 Bridgewater Pkwy. (Stow) 330-940-2424 $$ B, L, D, T Cristo’s House of Pasta Pizza, manicotti and stuffed shells are a few of the favorites. Closed Sun. 1275 Norton Ave. (Norton) 330-825-1994 $$ L, D, A, T The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard A modern industrial building that houses a state-of-the-art winery facility, wine bar and eatery. Perfect for a fun lunch, casual dinner or late snack. Closed Sun. Opens 11 a.m., Mon.-Sat. 1700 55th St. NE (Canton) 330-497-1000 $$ L, D, A D’Agneses Tomato Grill Wide array of entrée choices. Sunday brunch. Catering available.

106 First St. (Hudson) 330-342-3771 $$$$ L, D, A, T D’Agneses at White Pond Crossing Northern and Southern Italian cuisine made inhouse with fresh ingredients. Sunday brunch only.

566 White Pond Dr. (Akron) 234-678-3612 $$$$ L, D, A, T David B’s Grill & Pub Known locally for excellent service and a variety of foods. 3900 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-666-1191; 526 W. Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330-745-7677 $$ L, D, A, T D.B.A. (Dante Boccuzzi Akron) Modern American food in a rock ‘n’ roll palace setting.

Several menu items can be ordered in varied portion sizes, based on your appetite. Vegetarian and vegan options available. Order a drink and relax on the restaurant’s spacious patio. 21 Furnace St. (Akron) 330-375-5050 $$$$ D, A, T, V Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970. Specializes in “Family Style” shish kabobs. 204 12th St. NW (Canton) 330-456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-762-5877 $ B, L, A, D (Saturdays only), T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, authentic 1950s-style décor. All steaks are handcut, and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No

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THANKS FOR VOTING HUDSON’S!

BEST Local FamilyFriendly Restaurant

BEST Local Bartender

BEST Local Breakfast

Fairlawn 3900 Medina Rd. Akron, OH 44333 | 330-666-7777 Hudson 80 N. Main St. Hudson, OH 44236 | 330-650-1955

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for four for only $25. Pickup or delivery only. 783 W. Market St. (Akron: Highland Square) 330926-7919 $$ B, L, D, T Fiore’s Italian Steakhouse Steaks, fish, pizza and Italian classics, like smoked mozzarella ravioli.

Features a fast $6 lunch menu and patio seating. 85 W. Montrose Ave. (Copley Township) $$$ B, L, D, A, T Firehouse Grill & Pub Watch sports and enjoy steaks and buffalo wings. 1677 E. Market St. (Akron: East) 330733-6279; 2437 Canton Rd. (Akron) 330-699-3616; 4809 S. Prospect St. (Rootstown) 330-325-0706; 76 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-634-9967 $$ L, D, A Fisher’s Café & Pub American cuisine. 1607 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-657-2651 $$ L, D, A, T Fred’s Diner Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch. 930 Home Ave. (Akron: North) 330-535-3733 $ B, L, T The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building. Fantastic desserts. 201 Park Centre Dr. (Wadsworth) 330-334-3663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Game Grill + Bar The menu of the new street-level restaurant at Akron’s Canal Park includes several local classics, including sauerkraut balls and Whitey’s chili. Steve Smith, formerly with One Red Door in Hudson and Ken Stewart’s in Akron, is executive chef.

Saturday and Sunday brunch.

Canal Park, 300 S. Main St. (Akron) B, L, D, A, T, V Hattie’s Café & Gifts Training and vocational site for people with disabilities. Features coffee, homemade pastries, ice cream, soups, salads and sandwiches. 520 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-5351779 $ B, L, D, T Henry Wahner’s Restaurant An old favorite across from KSU. Complete German menu. German-style bar with beers served in ice-cold steins. 1609 E. Main St. (Kent) 330-678-4055 $$$$ D, A, T No credit cards Hudson’s Restaurant Neighborhood restaurant and bar serving fresh, chefdriven dishes. Family-friendly atmosphere. 80 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-650-1955; 3900 Medina Rd. (Akron: West) 330666-7777 $$ B, L, D, A, T Jimmy Bigg’s Grille Burgers, Italian subs, Reubens, wings, Philly cheese steak, BLTs, salads, hand-breaded onion rings and more. 1927 State Rd.

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credit cards Dontino’s Restaurant Home-style Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T Downtown 140 Executive Chef Richard E. Bennett IV calls his food style “minimalist new American.” He uses as few ingredients as possible to make an impact and keep clean flavors on the menu at this fine-dining establishment. 140 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-655-2940 $$$$ L, D, A Edgar’s Serves a variety of entrées, such as chargrilled grouper. Homemade soups, salads and starters. 530 Nome Ave. at Good Park Golf Course (Akron) 330-869-3000 $$$ L, D, A, T El Campesino Authentic Mexican cuisine. 4360 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-5561; 9169 State Route 14 (Streetsboro) 330-626-9777; 4048 Lincolnway E. (Massillon) 330477-8731 $$ L, D, A, T El Fogon Mexican Grill Traditional Mexican fare from the owner of El Campesino in Canton and Perry Township. Full bar and weekly margarita specials.

Open 7 days. 1080 Interstate Pkwy. (Green) 330-644-7700 $$ L, D, A, T El Rincon Authentic Mexican cuisine. 1485 S. Arlington St. (Akron: South) 330-785-3724; 720 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330-497-2229 $$ L, D, A, T Emma Marie’s Italiano Casual Italian dining and cocktails. Specialties include veal and pasta dishes. Closed Sun. 161 N. Chestnut St. (Ravenna) 330-298-9773 $$$ L, D, A, T The Eye Opener Diner-style menu features jams and jellies from Crooked River Herb Farm.

Upscale décor includes photos of historic Akron. 1688 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-867-1114 $$ B, L, D, T The Falls Deli Under new ownership of Lisa and Chip Thayer. Menu includes salads, subs, paninis, as well as corned beef and brisket sandwiches.

Closed Sunday. 2625 Bailey Road (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-3500 $ L, D, T Farmer Boy Restaurant House specialties include Greek souvlaki, broaster chicken and delicious desserts. 1324 Canton Rd. (Akron: East) 330-784-4052 $$ B, L, D, T The Fat Bob Grill Housed in The American Legion building, this restaurant provides big portions at low prices. Burgers, pizza and salads. Chef David Tate also offers homecooked meals

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8,%2/ =39 Stop by our NEW Green location.

Spacious floor plan with separate seating areas makes it the perfect spot for group meetings, complete with breakfast or lunch. Offering the same friendly service and quality products to our friends in the Green and Canton area that our Akron community has been enjoying for over 19 years.

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diners’ diary

Diners’

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Best Chef Finalist: Beau Schmidt

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akronlife staffers take a taste of the Valley.

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CHOOSE ONE OF BEAU’S GREAT RESTAURANTS

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CASUAL. RELAXING. GREAT FOOD.

Beau’s On The River at the Sheraton Suites Akron/Cuyahoga Falls 1989 Front Street Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 330-920-7530 www.beausontheriver.com

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Beau’s Grille at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn 3180 West Market Street Akron, OH 44333 330-867-5218 www.beausgrille.com

Gluten-Free Mom tastes the House Nachos and the Hot Corned Beef and Swiss with a side of Cole Slaw.

We began our meal with a plate of the House Nachos. Topped with Chihuahua cheese bean dip, scallions, diced tomatoes, black olives, chorizo and sour cream, this generous appetizer was more than enough to tide us over until our entrées arrived. The corned beef in my sandwich-sans-bread was seasoned beautifully, and the Swiss cheese was the perfect mild complement to the spicy beef.

I’m kind of particular about cole slaw but I’m glad I gave this one a chance; it wasn’t soggy or vinegar-heavy, and the celery seed gave it a nice bite.

Super Senior tastes the Half Salad with Baby Romaine and Marinated Tomato Topped with Caesar Dressing and Rye Croutons (with Chicken added).

If you’re a light eater, this is the perfect meal for you. The baby romaine leaves are presented whole, so if you don’t mind some exercise then get to cutting. I’m kind of lazy when it comes to food, so I prefer my leaves already chopped.

The salad was drenched with a velvety Caesar dressing that had a slightly tangy kick that I adored. The tomatoes are a nice addition, and I suggest adding the grilled chicken to the salad. The rye croutons were a bit too crispy, but overall, I’d get this meal again.

New York International Beer Competition

Foodie Fanatic tastes the Fried Pickles, House Nachos and the Chorizo, Prosciutto, Ham and Provolone Flatbread Pizza with Spicy Marinara.

thirstydog.com

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For an appetizer, we ordered the pickles and nachos. I’m not a pickle fan, but the Fried Pickles were addicting, and the nachos were piled high with tomatoes, cheese bean dip, olives, chorizo and sour cream. As a chorizo fan, I also chose the flatbread pizza with this Mexican sausage, and it had just the right amount of kick and savor. The thick slices of ham, chunks of zesty chorizo and layers of provolone were tastefully balanced with the sauce, and the crust was crispy and wellseasoned. Note: If you don’t like spice, you’d better have a glass of water nearby.

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330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T Louie’s Bar & Grille Local reputation for burgers. 739 E. Glenwood Ave. (Akron: North) 330-535-5030 $ L, D, A, T Luca’s New York Style Pizza Pizza, calzones, stromboli, cheese steaks and subs. 3451 Darrow Rd. (Stow) 330-688-9595 $$$ L, D, T Lucca Downtown Locallysourced, seasonal ingredients.

Italian-inspired menu. Call for reservations. 228 4th St. NW (Canton) 330-456-2534. $$$$ L, D, A, T Luchita’s Authentic Mexican cuisine with a four-star rating.

36 Park Lane (Hudson) 330655-0059 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Lucia’s Steakhouse Fresh seafood, signature garlic butter-topped steaks, Italian favorites and Lucia classics, like homemade crab cakes or cubanella and long, hot peppers.

Closed Sun. 4769 Belpar St. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330492-9933 $$$$ D, A Luigi’s Restaurant An Akron icon. Open late. Serves superb Italian cuisine, salads and award-winning pizza.

Voted Best Pizza and Best Italian Restaurant by akronlife readers.

Party trays and sheet-pan pizzas available with 24-hour notice. 105 N. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-2999 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards Lukity Country Inn Home-style comfort food. 2697 Manchester Rd. (Akron: South) 330-753-5983 $$ B, L, D, T The Main Street Grill A unique concept in in-store dining. The pancake special starts your day off right. 175 Great Oaks Trail in Buehler’s Foods (Wadsworth) 330-3363588 $$ B, L, D, T Main Wok Fast Chinese cuisine.

2855 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-8885 $$ L, D, T Accepts Discover and MasterCard Maize Valley Winery Sample wine by bottle or glass.

Taste 100+ types of cheeses.

Appetizers and sandwiches.

Full dinner menu on Saturday evenings. 6193 Edison St. NE (Hartville) 330-877-8344 $$ L, D, A Marcelita’s Southwestern atmosphere, guacamole made fresh daily, authentic Mexican fare. 7774 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-650-1121 $$ L, D, A, T Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s Best Red Sauce.

Known for endless ice cream options. 780 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-2531511 $$ L, D Medina Steakhouse &

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(Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-2444 $$ L, D, A, T Kasai Japanese Restaurant Sushi, hibachi, noodles, don buri, agamono and more. Enjoy a glass of wine, and finish your meal with tempura cheesecake. 295 Weatherstone Drive (Wadsworth) 330-3347141 $$$ L, D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Grille Widely recognized as one of Akron’s finest. Upscale, eclectic cuisine. Emphasis on steak and seafood. 1970 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-867-2555 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Ken Stewart’s Lodge Casual, Adirondack-style atmosphere, eclectic cuisine.

1911 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-8881 $$$$ D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Tre Belle Italian atmosphere and authentic cuisine. Specialties include an antipasto bar, big drinks and an extensive wine list. 1911 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-9990 $$$ D, A, V, T Kennedy’s BBQ Pit-smoked ham, pork, beef, turkey, pulled pork sandwiches topped with cabbage relish, bean soup, chili and Troyer’s pie by the slice.

1420 7th St. NW (Canton) 330454-0193 $ L, D, T Kozmo’s Grille Stone-hearth pizzas, upscale pasta dishes, fresh seafood and steaks. 37 First St. NW (Massillon) 330-8328807 $$$ L, D, A, T Lanning’s Restaurant Elegant dining atmosphere with a beautiful view. More than 150 types of wine. 826 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-1159, 330-864-2553 $$$$ D, A, T, V LagerHeads BBQ Smokehouse and Brewing Co. Try the BBQ ribs, smoked wings and beer cheese soup, made with Barnburner lager. For dessert, taste the fruit crisp made with grains used to brew their signature beers. 2832 Abbeyville Road (Medina) 330-725-1947 $$$ L, D, A, T Larry’s Main Entrance English-pub style, burgers of note. 1964 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-864-8162 $$ L, D, A, T Laziza High-end Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, plus steak and seafood dishes and a full bar. Acorn Alley, 195 E. Erie St. (Kent) 330-677-7000 $$$ L, D, A, T The Lockview Traditional American favorites. Fresh menu with spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown)

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uncorked

by Rick Rodger

One of My Favorites The 2010 Clos de Los Siete I’m often asked what wine I like to drink. This is a very hard question to answer because I’ve been very lucky and have sampled a number of excellent wines from around the world over the years. “Drink what you like, and like what you drink” is what I always tell people.

There are no rules for drinking wines, but if you’re in doubt, the old wine and food pairing rule is still reliable: white wine with white meat, and red wine with red meat. It’s very hard for me to drink sweet wines, but that’s where we all start when we first start drinking wine. For me, I started drinking Lambrusco and German Rieslings, and they both had a style of sweetness.

I like a lot of wines, but I really like the 2010 Clos de Los Siete blend from Mendoza, Argentina.

Clos de Los Siete means “vineyards of the seven,” and this state-of-the-art winery was started

by Michel Rolland, a world-famous enologist consultant from France, with seven of his wine friends. This winery was started when Rolland was working as a wine consultant in 1988 and discovered this fantastic wine-growing region. After visiting the area several times, he convinced his friends from France to help start this winery in Mendoza. Today, Clos de Los Siete is a flagship Argentine winery and perhaps the most expensive winery project on the planet.

This year Robert Parker rated the 2010 Clos de Los Siete, 89 points. The blend is 53 percent Malbec, 18 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 17 percent Merlot, 11 percent Syrah and 1 percent Petit Verdot. A great value, this wine has a dense ruby/purple color, accompanied by a big sweet nose of blackberries and cherries, and finishing long and flavorful, with ripe tannins and lingering notes of chocolate.

Gionino’s Pizzeria

LDT

Clos de Los Siete can be found locally at select Acme Fresh Markets, West Point Market, Papa Joe’s, Regency Wine Sellers, 750ML, Mustard Seed Market and Wine Reserve of Medina. Clos de Los Siete’s regular price is $24.99, but it’s now on sale for $19.99.

Wine Wisdom A celebration, such as a birthday or anniversary, calls for a festive wine like Champagne or sparkling wine. An even better choice: the celebrant’s favorite wine, regardless of type, if you know what it is. / Rick Rodger is a manager at Heidelberg Distributing Company.

Comments?

Email them to managing editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

Twiisted Sushi/Bar/Grill

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www.gioninos.com

985 Boardman Alley (Medina) 330-661-0606 • www.twiisted.com

Timber Lodge

DAT

:HOFRPH WR D WDVWH RI WKH 1RUWKZHVW 2XU VWHDNV DUH KDQG VHOHFWHG DQG FXW GDLO\ IURP WKH À QHVW 86'$ 3ULPH DQG &KRLFH DJHG EHHI 2XU VHDIRRG LV Á RZQ LQ GDLO\ WR DVVXUH WKH SHDN RI Á DYRU DQG IUHVKQHVV :H SURYLGH HDFK JXHVW ZLWK WKH KLJKHVW TXDOLW\ GLQLQJ H[SHULHQFH RXWVWDQGLQJ IRRG XQ FRPSURPLVLQJ VHUYLFH DQG UHFRJQL]DEOH YDOXH )DPRXV IRU WKH %HVW 3ULPH 5LE LQ 2KLR 2809 Pearl Road, Route 42 (Medina) 330-725-6288 • www.timberlodgemedina.com

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This wine comes from low yields, and grapes are handpicked and gravity-fed into the winery. Matured in new French oak barrels prior to release, this wine is an excellent complement to steaks and chops, and it can be stored for five to seven years.

akronlife

Luigi’s Restaurant /'$7 $Q $NURQ LFRQ 2SHQ ODWH 6HUYHV VXSHUE ,WDOLDQ FXLVLQH VDODGV DQG DZDUG ZLQQLQJ SL]]D 9RWHG %HVW 3L]]D DQG %HVW ,WDOLDQ 5HVWDXUDQW E\ DNURQOLIH UHDGHUV 3DUW\ WUD\V DQG VKHHW SDQ SL]]DV DYDLODEOH ZLWK KRXU QRWLFH 105 N. Main St. (Akron) • 330–253–2999 www.luigisrestaurant.com

july 2014

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 The Merchant Tavern With owner Anthony Piscazzi’s family history running Akron’s beloved Wine Merchant restaurant and chef Victor Todaro in the kitchen, this new restaurant already has a great start. Retail wines available.

Hours: Tues.,Wed.,Thurs. 3:30 p.m. - 12 a.m., Fri. 3:30 p.m. 1:30 a.m., Sat. Noon - 1:30 a.m., Sun. Noon - 9 p.m. Lunch served on weekends. 1824 Merriman Road (Akron: Merriman Valley) $$$ L, D, A, T Michael’s AM Casual, family-style dining. Full breakfast and lunch menu featuring sandwiches and daily specials.1562 Akron-Peninsula Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-9293447 $ B, L, T No credit cards Ms. Julie’s Kitchen Opened

by Akron native and author of three vegan cookbooks.

Specialties include salads, whole grain-foods and spelt flour waffles. 1809 S. Main St. (Akron) 330-819-3834 $ B, L, D, T Mustard Seed Market Café Located on mezzanine overlooking natural foods market. Menu reflects same strict standards as the market, with naturally raised meats, free-range poultry and foods free from artificial flavors, colorings and preservatives. Full bar, juice bar and espresso. Live music on weekends. Sunday brunch. 3885 W. Market St. (Montrose) 330-666-7333 $$$ L, D, T New Era Restaurant A mainstay of the Akron area.

Heavenly paprikash and other Hungarian favorites. 10 Massillon Rd. (Akron: East) 330784-0087 $$ B, L, D, A, T 91 Wood Fired Oven Upscale casual, West Coast atmosphere. Pizza and pasta are specialties. Patio dining. 1983 Easton St. NW in Washington Square Plaza (North Canton) 330-498-9191; 5570 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-497-9111 $$$ D, A, T The Office Metropolitan bistro and lounge with eclectic ambiance and timeless decor.

778 N. Main St. (Akron) 330-376-9550; 1846 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-376-9550 $$$ L, D, A, T, V (Cuyahoga Falls location only) One Red Door Decadent menu featuring gourmet pizzas, share plates such as baconwrapped roasted dates, and burgers. Closed Sun. 49 Village

Way (Hudson) 330-342-3667 $$$$ L, D, A Pad Thai Elegant restaurant, extensive menu of traditional Thai dishes. 3545 Brookwall Dr. (Fairlawn) 330-668-9981; 5657 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-6509998 $$$ L, D, A, T Pammie’s Get your fill of soul food, ribs, chicken and fish. 1364 Copley Rd. (Akron) 330-4750406 $$ L, D, T Pancho & Lefty’s Popular neighborhood cantina. 3254 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-6781 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Bear’s Italian Restaurant Authentic, homemade Italian food. 4990 Dressler Rd. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330-493-0090 $$$ L, D, A, T Papa Gyros Greek Grill Authentic Greek fare. Greek wine and beer. 4760 Everhard Rd. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330497-1100; 2045 Cleveland Ave. NW (Canton) 330-456-9000 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Joe’s Classy atmosphere, extensive wine list, fine Italian fare, seafood and steaks. 1561 Akron-Peninsula Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-923-7999 $$$ L, D, A, T Peachtree Southern Kitchen & Cocktails An upscale, family-friendly spot serving Southern fare from the Low Country. Sunday brunch.

200 N. Main St. (Hudson) 216978-9640 L, D, A Pillitiere’s The sub sandwiches and affordable lunches are a Firestone Park tradition. 61 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: South) 330-773-0206 $ B, L, D, A, T PINTS! Your Premiere Liquid Grille Numerous tap offerings along with sandwiches, pizza, wings and fried delicacies. 426 E. Exchange St. (Akron: University Park) 330535-2276 $ L, D, A, T Prime/93 Appetizers, specials, hand-cut and aged steaks, chops and fresh seafood. Chef-driven restaurant. Entertainment on weekends. 4315 Manchester Rd. (Akron: South) 330-644-2239 $$$$ L, D, A, T Primo’s Deli An Akron mainstay since 1979. Try their famous corned beef sandwich or spicy Italian sub, and finish with a slice of homemade carrot cake. Closed Sun. and Mon. 1707 Vernon Odom Blvd. (Akron) 330745-9056 $$ L, D, A, T Pub Bricco The menu features gourmet hamburgers, appetizers, salads and drinks served in a pub atmosphere.

1841 Merriman Road (Merriman Valley) 330-869-0035 $$ L, D, A, T

Early

Summer Nights Monday-Friday 4-6pm, Sunday 4-9pm

Relax and Enjoy a Cocktail and Appetizer...

Featured Pints 99¢ • TL Martini or Manhattan $5.00 Shareable Bountiful Large Shrimp in a Tangy Salsa $13.99

Protein Fresh Garden

Chicken Salad $11.99 • Steak Romaine $13.69 • Blackened Salmon Spinach Salad $14.89

2-Course Dinner Entrees

SOUP / SALAD Select One Crock of Clam Chowder, Crock of Beer Cheese Soup, Lodge House Salad, Caesar Salad ENTREES $12.95 Select One

Half Herb Rotisserie Chicken • Chopped Sirloin Steak • Spaghetti Bolognese

ENTREES $14.95 Select One

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken • Chicken Adobe • Baked North Atlantic Cod Krab Cake Oscar • Peppercorn Demi Sirloin Steak

ENTREES $19.95 Select One

Filetdelphia Kabob • Prime Rib of Beef au jus • Smothered Beef Tenderloin

Shareable Sundowners

Our Famous Chocolate and Carrot Tower Cakes • Homemade Summer Cheesecakes

330.725.6288 2809 PEARL RD. (RT. 42) MEDINA Half way between Medina and Brunswick on Rt. 42

Visit Our Updated Website: www.TimberLodgeMedina.com

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untapped

The Return of Blues & Brews Head to Lock 3 on Aug. 2

by Aaron Fowler

Are you weary of driving to Cleveland for every worthwhile beer festival? Rest assured, one of Northeast Ohio’s largest annual craft beer festivals is right here in our beloved city of Akron.

Enjoy all things beer Aug. 2 when Lock 3 Park downtown hosts the annual Blues & Brews event. Presented by Thirsty Dog Brewing Co. and Winking Lizard Tavern, all proceeds from the event benefit local charities.

Blues & Brews is the perfect time to sample microbrews, with more than 70 breweries offering 200 craft beer samples. Each year, a special tent is dedicated to our favorite Ohio brews and, in past years, attendees’ taste buds have been introduced to JAFB Brewery in Wooster and Cincinnati’s MadTree Brewing.

Expect a handful of new breweries to debut at this year’s fest.

Both general admission and Brewer’s Circle tickets are available. The Brewer’s Circle gives beer geeks early admission, the opportunity to taste limited-edition and barrel-aged beers, as well as lunch courtesy of Winking Lizard. All attendees will enjoy live music and have the chance to bid on beer swag at the ever-popular silent auction.

The event runs from noon to 6 p.m. for Brewer’s Circle ticket holders and 2 to 6 p.m. for guests with general admission tickets, so pick your poison wisely. What are you waiting for? Get out there and buy your tickets today before they inevitably sell out.

Lock 3 Park is located at 200 S. Main St. in Akron. Free parking is available on both sides of Lock 3 in parking garages. / Writer Aaron Fowler is a bit of a craft beer geek. Though he may deem himself a bona fide hophead, he never passes up a well-defined stout.

Comments?

Email them to managing editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

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The Rail High-quality Ohio beef used for burgers. Top with specialty condiments like truffle butter or sunflower-basil pesto. Veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, milkshakes, and local and craft beers. 3265 W. Market St. in Summit Mall (Akron) 330-864-7245; 4347 Belden Village Mall (Canton) 330-4977550 $$ L, D, A, T Raj Mahal Traditional Indian cuisine with excellent lamb and chicken curry dishes. Daily lunch buffet. 2035 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-926-0795 $$$ L, D, T 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) 330-650-1717 $$$$ L, D, A, T Retro Dog Family-owned and operated, this dine-in/drive-in restaurant serves char-grilled hotdogs, hand-patted burgers, fresh-cut fries, tempura-battered onion rings, vegetarian-friendly items, home-brewed root beer and homemade custard, floats, shakes and treats. 350 E. Steels Corners Road (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-3500 $ L, D, T Rockne’s Notorious for huge sandwiches and pub food at a great price. Try Rockne’s Terminator Sub: shaved beef, grill-seared and covered in cheese and fries, topped with lettuce, mayo and Rockne’s dressing on a buttered, grilled long bun. Children’s menu available. 7 Merriman Road (Akron) 330-7627555; 1203 Bailey Road (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-922-3663; 2914 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-8367662; 1450 E. Main St. (Kent) 330-677-0904; 155 Lincolnway West (Massillon) 330-833-8800; 5121 Buehlers Drive (Medina) 330-725-3663; 5000 Portage St. (North Canton) 330-244-4212; 4240 Hudson Drive (Stow) 330-922-9960; 9406 St. Rte. 14 (Streetsboro) 330-422-8010 $$ L, D, A, T Rosewood Grill Seasonally inspired with the fresh appeal of a local farmer’s market. Happy hour, Mon.-Fri., 3-6 p.m. 36 E. Streetsboro St. (Hudson) 330656-2100 $$$$ L (Fri/Sat only), D, A, T Rush Hour Bar & Grill American menu. 8870 Darrow Rd. (Twinsburg) 330-425-3221 $$ L, D, A, T Russo’s Unique cuisine featuring Cajun and Italian influences. Finedining atmosphere. 4895 State Rd. (Peninsula) 330-923-2665 $$$$ L, D, A, T Rusty Nail Casual atmosphere serving quality steak, seafood and chicken. 7291 State Route 43 (Kent) 330-673-2297 $$$ D, A, T Saffron Patch 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.

Wide selection of specialty rolls.

3900 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330670-0288 $$$ L, D, T Sarah’s Vineyard Sample high-quality wines, appetizers and desserts in the tasting room, on the deck or in the butterfly garden.

Open Wed.-Sun. 1204 W. Steels Corners Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330929-8057 $$ L, D, A Schwebel Room Fine dining on KSU campus. (Kent) 330-6722583 $$$ L, D, A, T Siamone’s Restaurant Specializing in Thai and Cambodian cuisine. 2215 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 330-7335070 $$$ L, D, A, T Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition. Drive-in burgers, fast fare. 2781 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Rd. (Green) 330-896-9350; 3296 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-7218561 $ L, D, T Sonnets Espresso Bar & Restaurant Signature blend coffee, local craft beer, made-toorder sandwiches, salads, soups, kids’ meals and live music every weekend. Closed Sunday. 117 College St. (Wadsworth) 330-3365557 $$ B, L, D, A, T Southern Gardens Restaurant & Tea Room Enjoy quiche, soups, sandwiches and salads, as well as Southern-style and authentic Southeast Asian cuisine. Over 50 loose leaf teas are brewed by the pot right at your table and are available for purchase to take home. Children’s menu available.

Closed Monday. 497 Portage Lakes Drive (Akron) 330-644-8363 $$ L, D, T Strickland’s Founded in 1936.

Run by the third generation of the Strickland family. 1809 Triplett Blvd. (Akron); 4050 Cascades Blvd., Unit A, (Brimfield) 330-3460166; 294 Pearl Rd. (Brunswick) 330-273-4600; 2629 Bailey Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-8498; 3465 S. Arlington Rd. (Green) 330-899-9477; 2930 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-721-9567; 3985 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-6700811; 3916 Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Norton) 330-706-9920; 9070 State Rt. 14 (Streetsboro) 330626-2750 $ T Swensons Drive In Voted Best Burger in akronlife’s Best of the City. Signature burger is the Galley Boy. 658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-9288515; 40 S. Hawkins Ave. (Akron: West) 330-864-8416; 4466 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-678-7775;

40 Brookmont Rd. (Montrose) 330-665-1858; 5815 Wales Ave. (Jackson Twp.) 330-833-5454; 1558 N. Main St. (North Canton) 330-499-9494 $ L, D, T Tangier Banquet and Events Center Occasionally featuring live entertainment from around the country. Elaborate décor. Quality steaks and seafood.

532 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-376-7171, 800826-4437 $$$$ D, A, T The Tasting Room at Hoppin’ Frog Brewery This spot offers a dozen beers on tap and more than 24 bottles, including imports, and nightly events. Gastropub seasonal menu available. Open Tues.-Sat. 1680 E. Waterloo Road (Akron) 234-5353764 $$$ D, A Timber Lodge Steaks are hand-selected from the finest USDA Prime and Choice aged beef. Seafood is flown in daily to assure the peak of flavor and freshness. Prime Rib is slow roasted rotisserie-style and handcarved to your taste. Saturday lunch, Sunday brunch and kids’ menu. 2809 Pearl Road, Route 42 (Medina) 330-725-6288 $$$ D, A, T Tito’s Mexican Grill Dining room features wooden chairs and tables hand-carved in Mexico.

Run by the owners of El Rincon on South Arlington. Great meals and even greater margaritas. 25 Ghent Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-835-9801 $$ L, D, A, T Totally Cooked Lunch Dock Chef Dante D’Avello prepares lunch at his newest location. Guests can dine inside or enjoy live music on the covered patio. Check out the 18-foot chuckwagon on BBQ Fridays. Open Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 975 E. Tallmadge Ave. (Akron) $$ L, T Totally Cooked To-Go Market Comfort foods, soups, made-to-order sandwiches and salads, and desserts. Menu changes weekly. Cuyahoga Falls open Mon.-Sat. Akron open weekdays for breakfast and lunch.

2730 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-9964; 388 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-2941120 $$ B, L, D, T Twiisted Sushi and traditional Japanese food, with gourmet burgers and steaks, salads, appetizers, desserts and a full bar.

Closed Monday. 985 Boardman Alley (Medina) 330-661-0600 $$$ D, A, T Twisted Meltz Nestled in Acorn Alley, this restaurant serves gourmet grilled cheese, salads, soups and ice cream. 164B E. Main St. (Kent) 330-968-4104 L, D, T Urban Eats - A Pop Art Café Open M-F, 8 am-4 pm. 51 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown)

small bite

by Caitlyn Callahan

Urban Raccoons A fresh look at a popular snack Brad Indoe was in his fifth year working a corporate job in Los Angeles when he found out he had a gluten intolerance. As an athlete and someone who often traveled for work, he soon realized there weren’t a lot of good gluten-free products on the market.

It was three years ago that he started to experiment in his kitchen making his own granola bars. Today, these bars — sold locally in Acme on Medina Road, Earth Fare, Whole Foods Market and on his website — are not only gluten-free, but also dairy-free, soy-free, GMO-free and vegan.

“I started to realize I can provide a better product and better service to the people who have the same needs as me,” Indoe says. “A lot of the gluten-free products get a bad rap because the ingredients they use don’t taste very good and don’t have a lot of nutritional value, and that’s really what drove me to do this. I wanted something better, and other people do too.”

After moving back home to Medina, Ohio, to start up his business, the next step was finding a name. Indoe grew up on a farm, and when he lived in the city, he grew an urban herb garden on his patio.

“After about four months of fighting this mysterious thing that was taking my produce, I found out that it happened to be a big family of raccoons, and that’s where the term ‘urban raccoon’ came from,” he says. “My whole neighborhood nicknamed them the urban raccoons because they were coming every night and taking everyone’s gardens. I was looking for something nature-focused, easy to remember, humorous, and Urban Raccoons … Who can forget that?”

Indoe’s focus for the granola bars, which currently come in five flavors, is the ingredients.

“I’ve never seen a bar that remotely mirrors my product,” he says.

“I handpick all the ingredients, and I don’t put any added sugars in

330-310-7135 $ B, L Vaccaro’s Trattoria One of the area’s best-kept Italian secrets. 1000 Ghent Rd. (Bath) 330-666-6158 $$$$ L, D, A, T Valley Café Owned by a five-star gourmet chef.

Features friendly service, dishes made from scratch and famous cabbage soup. 1212 Weathervane Lane (Merriman Valley) 330-865-0101 $ B, L, T 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 Varsity Bar & Grill Beer-battered shrimp, chipotle BBQ ribs, Italian trio and twisted BLTs are

menu standouts. DJ on Thurs.; live bands Fri. and Sat. Imported and domestic beer; 11 on draft. 271 S. Main St., Suite A (Akron) 330-376-3663 $$ L, D, A, T Virtues Signature foods such as a tempura calamari appetizer. Specialty pizzas, filet mignon and other gourmet items with high nutritional values. 525 E. Market St. (in Akron City Hospital’s Ann and David Brennan CCU) 330-375-7444 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, V Wally Waffle Breakfast served all day! Try the Elvis Waffle, loaded with bacon and peanut butter chips and topped with honey and sliced bananas. Plus, burgers, gyros, chicken sandwiches, fresh salads and more. 845 W. Market St. (Akron: Highland Square) 330-374-4915; 750 Darrow Road (Tallmadge) 330-

them, just what’s naturally in the dried fruits and maple syrup.” The maple syrup is produced on a farm that has been in his family for 90 years.

The bars’ main ingredient is organic amaranth seeds, which are similar to quinoa, high in protein and fiber, and contain amino acids. Fresh, handpicked fruits, nuts and dairy-free chocolate chips are also found in the bars. The ingredients are natural and locally sourced, when possible. Urban Raccoons’ packaging and labels are also done locally, and Indoe makes all of the bars himself.

“Everything is made in small batches, which is another big difference between us and other products,” he says. “Most other products are mass produced in warehouses, waiting to be shipped out, and they might wait for months. Our products are pretty much made-to-order.

We use all natural ingredients, and we don’t add any artificial preservatives, so it has a shorter shelf life, and it stays fresh when it gets shipped to stores.”

In the upcoming months, Indoe says he would like to unveil a new granola bar flavor and dive into producing other snack foods like crackers, flatbreads and pizza crusts.

“I go out every weekend to a different town, different store, and I’m just trying to get the word out,” Indoe says. “Everyone is so pleasantly surprised to see something so different from a regular bar.”

For more information about Urban Raccoons granola bars, check out www.urbanraccoons.com. / Writer Caitlyn Callahan recently graduated from KSU with her bachelor’s in newspaper journalism.

Comments?

Email them to managing editor Abby Cymerman at acymerman@ bakermediagroup.com.

633-7400 $$ B, L, D (Highland Square location only), T Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse Hibachi steakhouse and sushi bar. Chefs prepare food right before your eyes. 150 Montrose West Ave. (Copley) 330-666-5522; 6338 Strip Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-966-8866 $$$$ L, D, T West Side Bakery Specialties include cakes, pastries and cookies. Breakfast items include scones, muffins and yogurt parfaits. All sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups are made from scratch. 2303 W. Market St. (Akron: Pilgrim Square) 330-836-4101; 1840 Town Park Blvd. (Green) 330-899-9968 $ B, L, T Winking Lizard Come to see the lizard, stay for w w w. akronlife.com

the extensive beer selection and food. 79 Springside Dr. (Akron) 330-644-1780; 1615 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-467-1002; 5710 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330497-1133 $$$ L, D, A, T Yellowtail Japanese-style seafood and sushi buffet.

4054 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-666-9988 $$$$ L, D, A, T

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

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parting shot

Outdoor Fun In this photograph, captured by Willard Penfield Seiberling (18921981), young girls are swinging around on a playground maypole.

An avid and talented photographer, much of Stan Hywet’s historic documentation is owed to Seiberling’s blackand-white images.

Photo courtesy of the Summit Memory Project/Akron-Summit County Public Library, with permission from Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

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akronlife

june 2014

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