June 2021 Akron Life Magazine

VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 6

JUNE 2021

Ready, Set, Summer!

Gear up for action-packed local sports

Summit Sports & Social SAND VOLLEYBALL at Canal Courts photo by Tylar Sutton

DOUBLE STRENGTH GET FIT WITH A YOGA RUN CLUB

JUN. 2021 $3.95

COOL OFF TRY SIX REFRESHING BREWS

330 HOMES 4 FANTASY OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES

Making Memories, One Road Trip at a Time

MORE BRIGHT

3363 S. Arlington Road in Green • 330-645-7275 • www.serraautopark.com

Spree

All

FITNESS and FUN for EVERYONE!

visit spreeforall.summitmetroparks.org 330-867-5511 | # SMPspree

PAGES

JUNE 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 6

Pages start here

On The Cover

| 28 Outdoors | photo by Tylar Sutton

[ FEATURE ]

28 ACTION PACKED Get out and gear up to play sports at 330 parks. From adrenaline-pumping sand volleyball teams to strategic single-player archery, these sports add excitement, challenge and bonding to your summer.

Golfers at Ellsworth Meadows photo by Tylar Sutton

Prepare for power outages with a Generac home standby generator REQUEST A FREE QUOTE!

855-961-2862

FREE

7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value!

Limited Time Offer – Call for details

Special Financing Available Subject to Credit Approval

*To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions.

PAGES

45

12

38

UNCORKED

AGENDA

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Pompette hard sparkling water

[ the essential social digest ]

Yoga Squared Run Club

[ DEPARTMENTS ]

08 MAIL BONDING 09 FROM THE PUBLISHER Venture Out

10 RADAR [ seen + heard ]

12 AGENDA [ the essential social digest ] 14 Entertainment listings

+ Calendar of events 18 Flash: 76th annual Addy awards

44 GOOD EATS [ notable food + drink ] 44 Restaurant listings 45 Uncorked: Pompette

hard sparkling water 49 Untapped: Six refreshing

11 UPFRONT Growing Season

summer beers

51 PARTING SHOT Akron Airdock

6

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

Special Section 38 HEALTH & WELLNESS Yoga Squared combines yoga and running.

CHANGE AGENT

The news of proposed tax law changes has caused many of our clients to ask, “How will that affect me?” Our team at W3 is closely tracking these changes and is up to date on strategies that can help you proactively prepare for opportunities and challenges in the short and long term.

Other major changes, particularly for business owners, are the fiscal recovery programs to address the pandemic and infrastructure needs. During this time of immense change and fiscal complexity, having the guidance of professional accounting and business advisors at W3 can mitigate that stress of feeling overwhelmed.

Alicia Lazzaro Accounting Manager Global Accounting

GLOBAL ACCOUNTING | 330.867.3578 WEALTH MANAGEMENT | 330.836.3805 W3FINANCIALGROUP.COM Fee-Based Planning offered through W3 Wealth Advisors, LLC, a State Registered Investment Advisor. Third Party Money Management offered through Valmark Advisers, Inc., a SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through Valmark Securities, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. W3 Global Accounting provides only tax and accounting.

W3 Financial Group, LLC, W3 Wealth Advisors, LLC, and W3 Global Accounting are separate entities from Valmark Securities, Inc. and Valmark Advisers, Inc.

PAGES MAIL BONDING

VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 5

Tell us what's on your mind.

MAY 2021

POWER MOVES A DANCE CENTER SHAKES UP THE NATIONAL MODEL

ON A

MISSION

PLAY GROUND ENTERTAIN KIDS WITH FUN SUMMER CAMPS

Locals persist against the odds

SPRING GLOW REVIVE SKIN AT A MED SPA

Meet KIMMY HENDERSON of the Bipolar Butterfly Project photo by Tylar Sutton

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

Or maybe you want to tell us about something great happening in the area.

Send comments and suggestions to: Akron Life, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313, and please include your name and address.

Or email them to editor@bakermediagroup.com.

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

HAVE AKRON, WILL TRAVEL

FOUNDER

Don Baker Jr. [ 1940-2018 ] PUBLISHER

Colin Baker cbaker@bakermediagroup.com C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

William L. Teckmyer III w teckmyer@bakermediagroup.com MANAGING EDITOR

Get Your Face In Our Magazine

Kelly Petryszyn kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com

Send us pics of yourself with a copy of Akron Life and end up on this page!

Images and descriptions can be sent to editor@bakermediagroup.com.

A S S I S TA N T E D I T O R

Alexandra Sobczak asobczak@bakermediagroup.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Tylar Sutton tsut ton@bakermediagroup.com CO N T R I B U T I N G W R I T E R S

Aaron Fowler Mike McKenney PHOTOGR APHER

Tylar Sutton POWERED BY

SALES

Bunny Lacey Steve Tyson Ben DiCola Roberto Almenar sales@bakermediagroup.com C I R C U L AT I O N

circulation@bakermediagroup.com 330-253-0056, ext. 104 PHOTOGR APHY INTERN

WHE T HER YO U

Ryanne Locker

WANT TO HOS T O R AT T E N D A

EDITORIAL INTERNS

V I R T U A L E V E N T,

Wyatt Loy Morgan McGrath

33 0 T IX O F F E R S BOTH EASE AND E N T E R TA I N M E N T .

JUNE 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 6 (ISSN No. 74 470 5787 1)

YO U R T I CKE T TO LO C A L E V E N T S

330tix.com 8

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313. Copyright 2021© by Baker Media Group, LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by an addressed envelope and sufficient postage.

Baker Media Group, LLC and akronlife accept no responsibility for unsolicited material. Subscription rates: Continental U.S., One year —$19.95, Two years —$34.95. Call for Alaska, Hawaii or international rates. Single issues available by calling the circulation department or visiting akronlife.com/store. $3.95 each plus $3.50 shipping & handling. Editorial, advertising and business offices: (330) 253-0056, fax (330) 253-5868.

PAGES FROM THE PUBLISHER

[ Publisher | Colin Baker | cbaker@bakermediagroup.com ]

Venture Out Summer reminds us of good times on the road.

As travel restarts for many of us, I am sure there will be a lot of you hitting the open road versus boarding a plane. I have always loved getting in the car for a long road trip.

I do not do it very often anymore. I guess I have gotten lazy, only want to fly and complain when there are too many connections or layovers.

When I was in my 20s, I drove everywhere.

It seemed like nothing to jump in the car with buddies and go on a trip. All we worried about was having enough money for gas and some food. We never thought about where we would stay or anything else.

One of my favorite road trip stories is when me, my brother and a friend decided at the last minute to drive to Steamboat Springs in Colorado to go skiing. I had an old Toyota Tercel that was given to me. I did not think much about if it was road-worthy or not. Somewhere around Indianapolis, we blew a radiator. We limped the car to a junkyard and found a radiator off another Toyota. It did not quite match the size, so we used bungee cords to hold it in place.

Then we were once again on our way to Colorado.

I always liked driving the night shift. There is something soothing about nighttime when your eyes are relaxed, the roads are empty and you’re drinking bad gas station coffee that is burnt. I would find weird latenight talk shows on the radio, like “Coast to Coast AM” with Art Bell, which had listeners calling in with stories of paranormal activity. The hardest time was when the sun started coming back up, and my eyes had to adjust. That is when I would get sleepy and want to switch drivers.

We would also pull race cars across the country while traveling the open road.

One year, we were headed to Sonoma, California, and we would often have a volunteer pit crew. One of the lures about going to northern California was, Hey, we can stop in San Francisco on our way home.

That trip, we pulled a trailer 50 hours straight, rotating between four drivers without stopping.

Whether you decide to travel this summer, you can still venture out and make memories with friends and family here in The 330. Check out “Action Packed” on pg. 28 to read about finding excitement and fun with sports like volleyball, pickleball, golf and more.

I would like to take my family on a trip this summer, but something about traveling with a baby does not have the same allure. So for now, my road trips will be to Westerville, Ohio, to see the in-laws.

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

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

9

PAGES RADAR

[ by Kelly Petryszyn ] seen + heard

Guzzle Down Beer passports are back, and here’s how two local ones stack up.

summitbrewpath.com

provided by Visit Canton

ASCVB / Tim Fitzwater

Summit Brew Path

Hall of Fame Hops Craft Brew Trail visitcanton.com

Stops: •

24 in Greater Akron area by Dec. 12

•

15 in Canton area by Nov. 7

Prizes: •

Drawings for VIP brewery experiences and cash

•

Magnetic photo frames for first 1,000 and drawings for a Brewers Quarters trip and other prizes

Try This: •

Missing Mountain Brewing Co.: Don’t Worry About It Player, A juicy, smooth triple New England India pale ale

•

Royal Docks Brewing Co.: Dark Cherry Vanilla, A creamy milk dessert stout made in collaboration with Pav’s Creamery

The Shot

Snack Break

The COVID-19 vaccine has inspired impassioned conversations. Kent State University’s Wick Poetry Center and the University of Arizona Poetry Center are recording those views through the Global Vaccine Poem, which invites anyone to submit their thoughts on the vaccine and can be read online. Here are a few local responses. globalvaccinepoem.com

Feast on a mouthwatering picnic in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park without packing a basket thanks to the new Boston Store. Formerly called Trail Mix, the expanded shop has goodies you crave like Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream, Fat T’s Cookies, sandwiches and salads. And if you’re in a philanthropic mood, buy tickets for a gourmet spread including grilled Ohio chicken, rhubarb crumble and a bottle of wine during the June 19 Meal in the Meadow benefiting the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park. conservancyforcvnp.org

“It felt like hope was injected into my arm. …” Jan Leach, Fairlawn “… We’re sorry we complained. Dear vaccine, please restore these luxuries that we all took for granted,” Valoree Vargo, Hudson “… I hope your chemistry allows each and every one of us to reflect … That we truly are all one people who need each other to survive …” Todd Snider, Munroe Falls

10

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

PAGES UPFRONT

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

Growing Season Gardening provides a close, simple comfort.

I wouldn’t call myself a gardener now, but I’m certainly more interested in it than when I was an adolescent. I remember loathing when the mulch truck dropped a mountain in our driveway, and we had to spread it down our pine-tree-lined hill. I often watered our gobs of pots, baskets and beds and counted the time for each plant, feeling like it would never end. I didn’t consider the purpose or the fruit of what I was doing then.

We moved into our house when it was blanketed in snow, so we never really saw the yard. When it finally melted, there were dead shrubs, the beds were eroding and patches of grass had grown into them. The pandemic gave my husband, Tony, and me the push to get the yard into shape. After we had been holed up inside, we spent many weeknights last spring weeding, edging, mulching and planting. It was nice to see that our neighbors had the same idea as they worked in their yards, and we were able to talk to other people face to face. We even cracked open some drinks on the patio with a neighbor and enjoyed our first distant social encounter.

There’s solidarity in being a homeowner.

We’ve added a summer issue of 330 Homes to help you through whatever project you’re doing, whether it be finishing the basement, expanding the patio or doing a full-scale remodel.

For 330 Homes, I spoke to Tom Dayton of Dayton Nurseries for some tips on growing a fruit and veggie garden. Last year, Tony and I decided to finally fill the raised beds in our backyard with produce — partly inspired by our neighbor, Angelo, whose backyard faces ours and has impressive rows of staked tomatoes, huge eggplants and the like.

We went to the garden center last summer and had no idea what we were doing.

It seemed we went too late because it was already picked over, so we ended up buying some ailing plants, including cilantro that I swore I could revive. We planted an odd assortment: Brussels sprouts, peppers, tomatoes, kale, onions, spinach and herbs.

The tomatoes were the first to come in, and I remember bringing them to the Fourth of July so proud that they were big and juicy and that we grew them ourselves. Picking the herbs — flat-leaf parsley, oregano, rosemary, basil and cilantro (that barely lasted) — right from the back patio as I cooked made me feel like a farm-to-table chef. Angelo gave us basil plants, including a second after we killed the first, and I even had friends over for homemade pizza on the patio topped with the basil. The kale grew so fast that we were giving away bushels to friends and family for salads, pasta sauce and smoothies. Of course, some plants perished our first time out — the

spinach withered immediately and after it was really hot and dry, the tomatoes became disease-ridden.

Tony got really into the garden, constantly watering and picking. I watered a good deal too, since I worked from home a lot. I was surprised I didn’t detest the process this time — rather, it was a comfort.

Maybe it was getting to care for something after being so cut off from people, maybe it was seeing changes in what felt like a static moment, maybe it was simply having something to share with family around the table.

I still really dislike weeding — who doesn’t?

— but the self-reliance of growing your own food was surprisingly invigorating.

There’s a beautiful assurance in the idea that if you put the effort into caring for your plants, you will get to feast on the fruits of your labor.

And spending time outdoors is quite rewarding too. For this outdoors issue of Akron Life, we introduce you to local sports leagues and clubs for adults so you can seek some healthy competition and feel the camaraderie of being a part of something.

This year, we’re starting our garden late between the cold weather and building a bathroom in our basement. After speaking with Dayton, I realize we made a few rookie mistakes like watering too much. I’m looking forward to tending to our produce garden this year. This world is uncertain, but there’s comfort in simply going to your backyard and experiencing that little bud of joy when the first tomato appears and knowing more are on the way.

[ Managing Editor Kelly Petryszyn is an adventure seeker, forever a dreamer and an avid supporter of #TeamFiona.

]

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

11

AGENDA

JUNE 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 6

Agenda

the essential social digest

6/1-9/4 Planetarium Shows The McKinley Presidential Library & Museum offers limited-capacity planetarium shows with two programs. The Universe at Large is for kids 7 and up on Tuesdays through Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., and Cosmic Kids is for kids 3 and up on Saturdays 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. $10. mckinleymuseum.org

12

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

VITAL FOR STRONG MINDS Compassionate Neurology Care At the root of our community is resilience. So, when new mom Tyra arrived in the middle of the night suffering from a brain hemorrhage, our team, ranked one of America’s 100 Best stroke care hospitals, went to work. By diagnosing and treating brain conditions 24 minutes faster than the national average, we were able to save Tyra’s life and full cognitive functions and get her back to what she loves the most – time with her son.

Because Good Health is Vital for Life.

Call 800.993.3907 to schedule an appointment or meet our highly trained specialists at summahealth.org/brain

AGENDA

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

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

REMOTE Akron Art Museum Explore the museum’s collections online. Kiddos and those wanting to get creative can craft via video lessons. akronartmuseum.org/at-home Akron Civic Theatre

Blu Jazz

Sit the kids down for regular storytimes with children’s librarians or various book talks via videos on its Facebook page. Books are available inside or for curbside pickup. facebook.com/akronlibrary

Jazz enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite tunes through livestreams on Blu’s Facebook page and support local artists. facebook.com/blujazzakron

Akron Zoo Visit the zoo via Zoom to enjoy live keeper talks, animal encounters and presentations from local experts. akronzoo.org

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

The Civic has an assortment of live performances from all over with its Live Virtually portal. Check its Facebook every week for local musicians’ streams, events, stage shows and other performances. facebook.com/akroncivic

ArtsInStark

Akron Soul Train

Apollo’s Fire

View video profiles from past, current and future Soul Train artists-in-residence. facebook.com/ akronsoultrain

14

Akron-Summit County Public Library

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

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

Indulge in music, art and literature with the Music for the Soul video series from the Cleveland Baroque orchestra. The group posts past concert videos, interviews with people like the Grammy Awardwinning conductor Jeannette Sorrell and related readings. See shows through a digital portal or in person. apollosfire.org

Canton History Canton museums got together to regularly provide online content via social media. Engage with the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum on Mondays, the Paul Brown Museum at the Massillon Museum on Tuesdays, the National First Ladies’ Library on Thursdays, the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Fridays and the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum on Saturdays. Visit each museum’s Facebook page for updates.

Canton Symphony Orchestra The orchestra is offering fun ways to connect virtually. Watch mini concerts and learn about the issue of diversity in classical music during the “Orchestrating Change” podcast. cantonsymphony.org

SPONSORED CONTENT

Cascade Auto Group Celebrates

50 Years

Pat, Michelle and Mike Primm

Half a century ago, Cascade Auto Group operated out of a small building across from Akron Family Restaurant under the leadership of Don Primm with just 15 employees selling Audis.

Since then, the fourth oldest Audi dealer in the country expanded into a Cuyahoga Falls campus with six buildings on 21 acres, 100 employees and nearly 400 new and used Audis, Subarus and Mazdas in stock.

Some of the same customers who purchased vehicles from Cascade in the ‘70s still return to buy cars and Pat Primm, Don’s son who started doing odd jobs at 10 and is now a partner, attests that steady family involvement has built continuous trust and relationships with customers. While Don, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday, is retired, you can find Pat or Don’s other children, Michelle, managing partner, and Mike, fixed operations director, at the dealership nearly every day.

And even though Pat has become management, he still sells.

recently built a $3 million standalone Audi showroom and a $4 million state-of-the-art Audi service center. In that showroom, Cascade offers an inventory that includes five Audi hybrid models and four electric Audi models, such as the new supercar Audi e-tron GT. Cascade’s service is cutting-edge with innovations, like videos of your car during maintenance checks so you can visualize the problem as the technician explains it.

“The fact that they can still talk to an owner and do business with an owner sets us apart,” Pat says.

Cascade is thankful for the community’s support, so it gives back by hosting blood drives for the American Red Cross and donating to organizations like the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley

Being family-owned doesn’t mean Cascade is static either. Cascade

“It’s like standing underneath the car with the technician,” Pat says.

National Park, the Humane Society of Summit County, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition and more.

Whether you are buying a new car, are trading in a lease or looking to service your Audi, Subaru or Mazda, Cascade can be your home like it has been for so many customers.

“You’re going to be treated like one of the family when you walk in,” Pat says. “You’re gonna see familiar faces that are well-trained and well-educated on not only the product at hand but how to keep you happy.”

4149 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls • 330-929-1861 • cascadeautogroup.com JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

15

AGENDA

Cleveland Orchestra Connect with the orchestra via the streaming platform Adella to access new performances recorded in Severance Hall through the In Focus series, as well as the “On a Personal Note” podcast that’s about classical music. clevelandorchestra.com

Gage House Sessions Grab your favorite drink and enjoy an evening with local musicians via Gage House’s live sessions. Check out previous shows from artists including Madison Cummins and Ben Gage, who both make for evenings of soothing tunes. facebook.com/ gagehousesessions Jilly’s Music Room

Experience Ohio’s History this Summer!

Ohio’s premiere living history museum is open June - August Wednesday-Sunday

JUNE 12 &13 SOW & GROW Pollinator Festival and Plant Sale JULY 10 & 11 MUSIC IN THE VALLEY Music & Wine Festival HALEFARM.ORG 330-666-3711 Bath, Ohio

16

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

The Akron music venue is hosting select Streaming Saturdays on its YouTube channel. Watch the livestreams and visit the online store to order dinner, tip the band, make a donation and buy merchandise. jillysmusicroom. com

Magical Theatre Co. The Barberton theater company is offering game nights and educational videos.

Children can also enjoy stories read by local theater veterans during Magical Storytime. magicaltheatre.org

Nightlight Cinema Purchase tickets to rent movies online through the Akron art house cinema’s virtual screening room — you’ll have access to the films at nightlightcinema.com/ virtual-screening-room.

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

Radio on the Lake Theatre The Shaker Heights-based organization utilizes modern technology to connect with actors, directors and artists from throughout the country to perform and record radio plays. radioonthelaketheatre.org

Rubber City Theatre Dive into the world of online theater with its Shakespeare in the Living Room series in which professional actors perform Shakespearean works using props they found lying around their homes. facebook. com/rubbercitytheatre

Standing Rock Cultural Arts Enjoy a podcast of “Arcade Cheezy Town,” a play written and performed by students in the New World Children’s Theatre based in Kent. standingrock.podbean.com

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens The North American Reciprocal Museum Association is offering virtual tours of the first floor of the Manor House at Stan Hywet. Guests can tour the most impressive floor without leaving their homes. stanhywet.org

Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH Learn about historical figures on their birthdays, join virtual book talks, view artifacts and more on the Summit County Historical Society’s Facebook page. facebook.com/ summitcountyhistoricalsociety

Summit Metro Parks Explore many different topics, including animals, plants, different habitats and more, through virtual events. summitmetroparks.org

Up Front Art Space This Cuyahoga Falls gallery is sharing photos and videos of artwork for sale to support local creatives. facebook.com/ upfrontartspace

Virtual Jukebox Dance and sing along to videos made by local artists. You may have heard some of these 330 artists, like Jim Ballard, Shelby Olive and Adrian Labra on 90.7 and 91.3 Summit FM radio waves in the past. Check out the 50-plus videos to enjoy your favorites and discover new sounds. the330.net/virtual-jukebox Wandering Aesthetics Theatre Go on this Akron troupe’s Facebook page for performance videos from members and fans — it could be play readings, poetry, comedy, puppets, dance or whatever else artists submit. facebook. com/watheatre

Weathervane Playhouse Sign up for virtual workshops and classes for all ages that focus on dancing, acting and more. Also check out short films on the theater’s YouTube channel. weathervaneplayhouse.com

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

17

AGENDA FLASH

Addy Awards The American Advertising Federation of Akron held its 76th annual American Advertising “Addy” awards celebration via livestream from the Akron Civic Theatre Feb. 19. The theme, “Earn Your Mark,” featured scout badge icons unique to Akron, as well as a campsite.

The ceremony was cohosted by AAFAkron president and design partner Daniel Kearsey and vice president Garrick R. Black II, along with special guest Dara Harper, an artist and the founder of the Akron Black Artist Guild. Female scouts also attended, including Katy and Margie Spinner, who are Gold Award Scouts less than a year away from becoming Eagle Scouts, and Gabrielle Foust, the first female Eagle Scout in the Great Trail Council area. The event also featured an Akron Apple cocktail intermission hosted by John Bahas of Waterloo Restaurant & Catering.

Pritt Entertainment Group took home the best of show award for its Akronite App Launch Video done for the city of Akron. Kent State University, Pritt Entertainment Group and Todd Biss Productions each received a judge’s choice award.

Amanda Whitsett, a graduating senior at The University of Akron, won the student best of show for her Korasada Branding entry. She also won a gold Addy and student best of show for the same piece at the Fifth District American Advertising Awards competition. Kara DeVol and Maria Groom also won district silver Addys, and their work will be judged nationally.

18

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

2

1

3

4

5

6

7

8

AGENDA

9

10

Photos provided by AAF-Akron

11

12

13

14

1.

Clayton Schrock, Jumpstart Video Productions

2.

Lydia DeVincent

3.

Scott Zaklan

4.

JD Dumire, Maria Groom, Daniel Kearsey

5.

Derek Stulpin

6.

Garrick R. Black II, Dara Harper, Daniel Kearsey

7.

Kim Wengerd

8.

Jake Spinner

9.

Kent State University Flash and University of Akron Zippy

10. John Bahas 11. Judge Evan Pease from Buffalo New York 15

12. Judge Laura Hand from Cedar Falls, Iowa 13. Daniel Kearsey 14. AAF-Akron team behind the scenes 15. Mario Micale

17 16

16. Sisters Katy and Margie Spinner and Gabrielle Foust 17. Mac Love

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

19

AGENDA

E VENT S Through 6/16 “Rebecca Cross: Suspended Animations” This

exhibit features large-scale drawings and installations portraying the current state of the environment. Massillon Museum, Studio M Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.com

Through 6/26 “The Art of Y” The Akron Area YMCA celebrates its 150th anniversary by partnering with Summit Artspace for an exhibit in which community members created pieces of art that include the letter “Y” to tell their stories. View virtually or in person.

Summit Artspace, Main Gallery, 140 E. Market St., Akron. Saturdays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. summitartspace.org Through 6/30 Charge Community Scavenger Hunt Download the Charge app to

participate in this community-wide scavenger hunt hosted by the Canton Charge. Scan QR codes at local participating businesses and receive prizes for hitting certain milestones. Canton.gleague.nba.com

Through 7/3 “Collection Gems: Celebrating 85 Years of CMA” For this

anniversary exhibit, the Canton Museum of Art’s Volunteer Angels and staff have chosen their favorite pieces from the museum’s collection. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave., Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, $8 adult nonmembers. cantonart.org

the Paul Brown Museum at the Massillon Museum to see this exhibit about Massillon’s history of women’s sports.

Massillon Museum, Paul Brown Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. TuesdaySaturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.com

Through 7/3 “Massillon’s Pro and Semi-Pro Teams, 1890-1926” Visit the Paul Brown Museum

Through 7/3 “Tomorrow… An Unknown Quantity: The Work of Lee Kessler” View the work of

within the Massillon Museum to see photos and learn info about various local football teams throughout the years. Massillon Museum, Paul Brown Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.com

Through 7/3 “Mort Künstler: ‘The Godfather’ Of Pulp Fiction Illustrators” This exhibit features more

than 70 original drawings and paintings first seen on magazines and paperbacks in the ‘50s and ‘60s. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave., Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, $8 adult nonmembers. cantonart.org

The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory

Family owned and operated since 1875, with chapels in Fairlawn and Cuyahoga Falls. Now celebrating the sixth-generation of family leadership in dedicated service to the city of Akron.

Complimentary Live Streaming. Virtual Arrangements. Digital Tribute Wall and Guestbook

Fairlawn • Cuyahoga Falls • 330-867-4141 • www.billowfuneralhomes.com 20

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

Through 7/3 “Play Like a Girl: Massillon Women’s Tiger Teams from Gym Class to Title IX” Head to

this Canton native in this exhibit that’s a collaboration between the Canton Museum of Art, the Maps Air Museum and the Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. Kessler created drawings and painted on planes during WWII. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave., Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, $8 adult nonmembers. cantonart.org

AGENDA

Through 7/3 “We’ve Got Issues: Myra Schuetter Watercolors” View

these large watercolor paintings based on realism and complex still life. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave., Canton.

Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., FridaySaturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, $8 nonmembers. cantonart.org

Through 8/8 “What’s New: Recent Acquisitions” This exhibit focuses

on new wardrobe pieces in the Kent State University Museum from groups that previously weren’t represented or had little representation, such as the Naga from northeastern India, the Karen from southeastern Myanmar and the Miao of southern China. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sundays, $6 general public. kent.edu/museum

Through 8/22 “Reconsidered: Works from the Collection” Only

1 percent of the Akron Art Museum’s collection is on view, so this exhibit rotates pieces out of storage and focuses on telling better stories about art. Akron Art Museum, Karl and Bertl Arnstein Galleries, 1 S. High St., Akron. Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. akronartmuseum.org

Through 10/13 South Town Cruise-In Go over to Habitat for Humanity in Medina for a weekly show of antique, classic and muscle cars through Main Street Medina. Habitat for Humanity Medina County, 233 Lafayette Road, Medina. Wednesdays 4-8 p.m. Free. mainstreetmedina.com

Through 10/16 Medina Square Farmers Market Shop local

produce, baked goods, breads, sauces, prepared foods, flowers and more at this weekly market. Public Square, Medina. Saturdays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. medinafarmersmarket.com

Through 9/19 “Totally Rad: Bold Color in the 1980s” This exhibit

brings forth pieces from the Akron Art Museum’s permanent collection that represent the bright, neon and contrasting colors that were common in the ‘80s in media, fashion, art and more.

Akron Art Museum, Judith Bear Isroff Gallery, 1 S. High St., Akron. Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. akronartmuseum.org

Through 9/19 “Totally Radical: Art and Politics in the 1980s” Created from the pieces in the Akron Art Museum’s permanent collection, this exhibit features political art from the ‘80s about issues such as feminism, racial justice, the environment and more.

Akron Art Museum, Fred and Laura Ruth Bidwell Gallery, 1 S. High St., Akron.

Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. akronartmuseum. org

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

21

AGENDA

Through 12/31 Centennial Tour Visit all 20 destinations in the Summit Metro Parks to celebrate the district turning 100.

Keep track of your locations, learn about the history and heritage of the area and more. View a full list of the parks and get a Centennial Tour form online to earn rewards. summitmetroparks.org

Through 10/30 Howe Meadow Farmers’ Market Visit Countryside’s

outdoor market at Howe Meadow to shop from over 50 local farmers, artists and more. Pickup orders and curbside pickup orders are also available.

Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula. Saturdays 9 a.m.-noon. countrysidefoodandfarms.org/howemeadow Through 12/19 “Stitched: Regional Dress Across Europe” The Kent State University

Museum features an exhibit that showcases regional costumes throughout Europe, highlighting what the pieces of clothing have in common rather than the original context, which marked social differences.

Purchase tickets in advance online. Kent State University Museum, Stager and Blum Galleries, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sundays, $6 general public. kent.edu/museum

Making Meaningful Connections

Through 5/15/21 “The 10,000 Things” The Akron Art Museum’s newest

outdoor exhibition pops up amongst the native grasses and flowers in the Bud and Susie Rogers Garden. Cleveland artist Jordan Wong melds inspiration from Asian art with graphic design, iconographies and his musings on triumph and growth. It features brightly colored large-scale vinyl printworks. Akron Art Museum, Bud and Susie Rogers Garden, 1 S. High St., Akron.

Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. akronartmuseum.org

6/1-6/6 & 6/22-6/27 Akron RubberDucks vs. Erie SeaWolves Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our minor league baseball team. For tickets and game times, visit akronrubberducks.com. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron.

6/1-9/4 Planetarium Shows The McKinley Presidential Library & Museum offers limited-capacity planetarium shows with two programs. The Universe at Large is for kids 7 and up on Tuesdays through Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m., and Cosmic Kids is for kids 3 and up on Saturdays 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. $10. mckinleymuseum.org 6/2-6/30 Live Music at the Still House Relax at Gervasi Vineyard

with live music by artists like Rolando, Becky Flinn Music, Lolo, Stan Miller and more. Gervasi Vineyard, the Still House, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. WednesdayThursday, Sunday 7-10 p.m., FridaySaturday 8-11 p.m. gervasivineyard.com

6/2, 6/9, 6/16, 6/23 & 6/30 Yoga Join an evening yoga session just once or throughout the month on select dates. Kenmore Community Center, 880 Kenmore Blvd., Akron. 6-7 p.m. Free for first session. betterkenmore.org

Featuring Upscale Clothing Jewelry Shoes

In Your Neighborhood

Accessories

By connecting children and

Shop

adults with disabilities to the support they need to thrive … one person at a time.

Great Deals

Create Jobs

In Our Community

335 S. Main Street Akron, OH 44308

summit SummitDD.org

234.200.0130 UPCOMING SIDEWALK SALES: JUNE 12, JULY 10 & AUG. 14!

Check Us Out Online: GOODWILLAKRON.ORG/BLUE

22

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

AGENDA

6/2-11/29 GV Cruise-Ins Explore a range of cars and trucks at the Gervasi Vineyard grounds at this familyfriendly event.

Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. Wednesdays 5-8 p.m. Free. gervasivineyard.com

6/3 “Celestial Serenades” The first

season of the Cleveland Orchestra’s In Focus digital concert series nears its end with “Celestial Serenades,” featuring principal trumpet player Michael Sachs and guest harpist Yolanda Kondonassis.

The episode is available on the Adella streaming app. adella.live

6/4 & 6/5 Cleveland Ballet at Stan Hywet: “Alice” Enjoy the classic

story adapted to a whimsical ballet, choreographed by Margo Sappington.

Watch it on the Great Meadow. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 7-8 p.m. $25 lawn seats, $50 preferred seats. stanhywet.org

6/4 Dirty Deeds This AC/DC tribute band performs at Lock 3 as a part of the First Friday celebration, with opening act Walking in Circles. Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St., Akron. 7-10 p.m. $5. lock3live.com 6/4 Lunchtime Five: “The 10,000 Things” Join this virtual walk-through

of Jordan Wong’s outdoor installation to learn behind-the-scenes information on how he created it. Noon-12:05 p.m. akronartmuseum.org

6/4 Main Street Medina First Friday Head downtown for a day of shopping, dining, live music, art and more. Medina Public Square Historic District, Medina. 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. mainstreetmedina.com

6/4 Woodland Mushrooms Join a

naturalist at Liberty Park to search for and identify fungi during a hike. Summit Metro Parks, Liberty Park, Twinsburg Ledges Area & Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. 6-8 p.m. summitmetroparks.org

6/5 Family Day: 10,000 Things Art Party Bring the family to the Akron Art Museum for a chance to celebrate the new outdoor exhibit, “The 10,000 Things”

by Jordan Wong, and create your own artwork to take home. Akron Art Museum, Bud and Susie Rogers Garden, 1 S. High St., Akron. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. akronartmuseum.org 6/5 Kids Day of Safety & Play Kids and families can learn about the fire and police departments, play games, visit the Medina Square Farmers Market and more during this day of family-friendly activities. Public Square, Medina. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. mainstreetmedina. com

6/5 PACC Turns 100 Celebration Enjoy sauerkraut, cabbage and noodles, sausage, pierogies and more at this outdoor centennial event for the Polish American Citizens Club of Akron, Ohio. 472 E. Glenwood Ave., Akron. Noon-8 p.m. Free. facebook.com/PACAkron

6/5-9/4 Peninsula Flea Shop handmade, repurposed and vintage items by 50 to 70 vendors including artists, craftspeople and collectors on June 5, June 26 and select dates. Heritage Farms, 6050 Riverview Road, Peninsula. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Free. heritagefarms.com

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

23

AGENDA

6/6 Distance Hike Put on your hiking shoes and explore over 5 miles of Liberty Park on a guided hike.

Summit Metro Parks, Liberty Park, Twinsburg Ledges Area & Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg.

9-11:30 a.m. summitmetroparks.org

6/11 Fleetwood Macked Listen to this Fleetwood Mac tribute band and opener Monica Robbins. Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St., Akron. 7-10 p.m. Free. lock3live.com

6/12 Russell Thompson and Michael Austin Project Enjoy a night of music featuring Russell

6/6-10/17 Open Paint Days Bring your painting

6/11& 6/12 Special Film Presentation: “Holler” This movie,

6/12 Try It: Stand-Up Paddle Boarding Learn to paddleboard during this relaxed session. Participants must be 13 and older and know how to swim. Summit Metro Parks, Silver Creek Metro Park, Bathhouse & Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Road, Norton. 10-11 a.m., 11 a.m.-noon and noon-1 p.m. summitmetroparks. org

supplies and capture the beautiful gardens on your canvas on select dates. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 1-6 p.m. Free members, $12 nonmember adult. stanhywet.org

6/6 Plein Air Demonstration Watch local artist Jessica Henry Gray as she demonstrates plein air painting and teaches about the art form. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 1 p.m. stanhywet.org 6/6-8/8 Zoothing Hour The Akron Zoo

opens early for an hour on select dates for guests with disabilities who want to avoid crowds or loud noises. Purchase timed tickets ahead of time online. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 9-10 a.m. Members free, nonmembers $13. akronzoo.org 6/6 Bath Art Festival Enjoy local food, entertainment and art. The event is a juried art festival that promotes local artists. Bath Community Park, 1615 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Akron. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. bathartfestival.com

6/7-6/11 Piano-a-thon 2021 This annual event is virtual this year, a weeklong fundraiser that features students performing piano programs. Students obtain sponsors, and funds go to the John and Elaine Thompson Piano-a-thon Endowment for Palliative Care and Music Therapy at Akron Children’s Hospital. View the videos on Facebook and YouTube. akronchildrens.org/ giving.html

6/9 Cuyahoga Valley Civil War Roundtable: The Lincoln Children Barbara Brugler

provides a virtual presentation about Abraham Lincoln’s children. The event is free but requires registration. 7:30 p.m. cuyvalleycwrt.wixsite.com/home 6/9 Learning Curve Community Tour 89.7

WKSU and Ideastream host virtual events about public education in Ohio, including a discussion about positive outcomes and progress throughout the last year on Facebook Live. 6-7 p.m. Free. wksu.org

6/10-12/31 “Amanda Wicker: Black Fashion Design in Cleveland” This

exhibit showcases 15 garments, such as jumpsuits and bridal gowns, created by Amanda Wicker, who started the Clarke School of Dressmaking and Fashion Design in her home in Cleveland’s Fairfax neighborhood. Cleveland History Center, 10825 East Blvd., Cleveland. Friday-Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $20-$25. wrhs.org

filmed in Ohio and debuting in June, is about a young woman who joins a dangerous scrap metal crew to pay for her education. Preorder concessions to get them delivered to your seat before the film starts. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7:30 p.m. $7. cantonpalacetheatre.org 6/11, 6/25, 7/9 & 7/23 Movies in the Parks Bring a chair or blanket to Cuyahoga Falls parks on select Fridays to see the movies “Trolls World Tour,” “Doolittle,” “The Crood: A New Age” and “Tom and Jerry,” which start at dusk at Lions Park, Linden Park, Indian Mountain Park and Oak Park, respectively. facebook.com/cfoparks

6/12-6/13 Founders’ Day Weekend Honor the 86th anniversary of the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous by Bill W. and Dr. Bob in the Gate Lodge. Admission is free to the Gate Lodge during the weekend, where you can view the immersive exhibit, “Henrietta Seiberling: A Spark for a Movement.” Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. stanhywet.org

6/12 Brew at the Zoo Guests 21 and

over can explore the zoo while sipping a beer or glass of wine after hours. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 6:30-9:30 p.m. $27 members, $33 nonmembers. akronzoo.org

6/12 Car show at Maps Air Museum Bring the family to the 11th annual car show, presented by the Don Sitts Auto Group, to see cars and planes that changed our country. Also enjoy food vendors, a 50/50 raffle and more. Maps Air Museum, 2260 International Parkway, North Canton.

9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. $15 display vehicle, $10 general admission. mapsairmuseum.org 6/12 MSK 5K Main Street Kent and North Water

Brewing Co. host this noncompetitive run or walk that starts and ends on the Portage Hike & Bike Trail. There are staggered start times at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and noon. $30. mainstreetkent.org

6/12 Opening Day: Canton Farmers’ Market Shop fresh fruit and vegetables,

eggs, baked goods, maple syrup, coffee, live plants and more at the Canton Farmers’ Market’s new location. Centennial Plaza, Fourth Street NW and Court Avenue.

Saturdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free.

6/12 “Oz” The Summit Choral Society’s virtual performance with the Wayne Center for the Arts Ballet is released. summitchoralsociety.org

24

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

Thompson, the Michael Austin Project and opener DJ Mo Lee. Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St., Akron. 7-10 p.m. Free. lock3live.com

6/12-9/25 “A Thrilling Act: The Art of Anthony Eterovich (19162011)” This exhibit features paintings

and works on paper in oil, watercolor, charcoal, ink and graphite by the late Cleveland artist Anthony Eterovich, which represent seven decades of life on Ohio’s North Coast. Massillon Museum, Aultman Health Foundation Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org

6/13 Ballet Excel Ohio: “The Snow Queen” Get tickets for this ballet choreographed by New York City choreographer Tom Gold and inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s children’s story about magical lands, an elegant queen and a snowman. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 2 p.m. $10 general admission. akroncivic.com 6/13-10/17 Making “Sense” of Stan Hywet This program for children 5 to 7 years old allows them to become scientists and use their five senses while exploring the Manor House and gardens on select dates.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 1-2:30 p.m. $8.50 child member, $14 adult member, $12 child nonmember, $20 adult nonmember. stanhywet.org

6/13 Rhythm on the River: Forecast Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park hosts a free concert series this summer, with the first headlined by indie rock band Forecast. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula. 4 p.m. Free. forcvnp.org/rotr

6/13 Silver Creek Kayak Paddle on Silver Creek’s lake while getting pointers from a certified instructor and naturalist.

Participants must be 13 and older and be able to swim. Summit Metro Parks, Silver Creek Metro Park, Bathhouse & Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Road, Norton. 9:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. $15. summitmetroparks.org 6/13-8/22 Vintage Days Enjoy an Akron Black Stockings baseball game, an outdoor concert and more, as the Stan Hywet Historic Players, History First Hand acting troupe brings you back to the 1920s. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. Noon-4 p.m. stanhywet.org

Great Dealership.

Great Brands.

Since 2001

Since 1978

Since 1969

Take America’s best test drive through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

For more than 50 years, we have been the safe, friendly place to buy and service your car!

4149 State Road 330-929-1861 Shop Our Complete Inventory of New and Used Cars at: www.CascadeAutoGroup.com

AGENDA

6/17 AAM After Work: Games in the Garden with Artist Jordan Wong Complete a scavenger hunt

through the outdoor art installation “The 10,000 Things” in the Bud and Susie Rogers Garden. Then, artist Jordan Wong gives a tour of the installation. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free members, $5 nonmembers. akronartmuseum.org 6/17 Dancing Conversations: BLKmenMoves Join in the National Center

for Choreography at The University of Akron’s virtual discussion about the plurality of Black male identities and decolonized metrics of success. Listen to Akron native Dominic Moore-Dunson and other Black male choreographers on the center’s YouTube channel. 7 p.m. Free. nccakron.org

The National Center for Choreography at The University of Akron premieres a collection of short dance films by choreographer Cara Hagan, in which she collaborated with Ananya Chatterjea, Paloma McGregor, Tamara (Fákẹ́mi) Williams, Jacinta V. White and Sharon Bridgforth. The films are available on Juneteenth on NCCAkron’s YouTube channel. 3-4 p.m. Free. nccakron. org

6/19 Towpath Bike Ride Join a

naturalist for this casually-paced 15.5mile bike ride along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail from the Wolf Creek parking lot to Summit Lake and back. Summit Metro Parks, Towpath Trail, Wolf Creek Trailhead, 33 Snyder Ave., Barberton. 10 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. summitmetroparks.org

6/17 “Dance & Drama” The first season of the

6/20 Father’s Day All dads and grandpas get free admission to the Akron Zoo. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free fathers, $13 nonmembers. akronzoo.org

6/17 Akron Roundtable: Literature as a Gateway to Understanding Tune in to Akron

6/20 Father’s Day Car Show View 400 classic, antique and collector cars from 1915 to 1996. The 63rd annual show is presented with the Ohio Region Classic Car Club of America. Q.S. Jazz performs live at the Courtyard Stage from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

On-site guest parking is not available. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path,

Cleveland Orchestra’s In Focus digital concert series concludes with “Dance & Drama,” featuring music director Franz Welser-Most leading Grieg’s Holberg Suite and Korngold’s Symphonic Serenade. The episode is available on the Adella streaming app. adella.live

Roundtable’s live virtual forum to hear Rachel Cargle, a public academic, writer, and philanthropic innovator, as she discusses her journey founding a business ecosystem with roots in Akron based on the traditions of other Black-owned bookstores. Noon-1 p.m. akronroundtable.org

6/17 Sweet Treats & Tunes with The Rat Pack Listen to tunes ranging

from country to Motown as Damion Fontaine, Scott Brotherton and Stan Davis as Frank, Dean and Sammy perform in the open-air pavilion. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton.

8-9:30 p.m. $49 premium tickets, $39 general tickets. gervasivineyard.com 6/18 Crush Visit Lock 3 to hear this Bon Jovi tribute band and opener Juke Hounds. Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St., Akron. 7-10 p.m. Free. lock3live.com

Akron. 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. stanhywet.org

6/20 Lights Out: Frankie Valli Tribute Listen to this tribute band to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, with songs like “Sherry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “My Eyes Adored You” and more. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 4 p.m. $25-$30. akroncivic.com 6/23-6/27 Bridgestone Senior Players Championship Spectators are welcome at Firestone

Country Club for the Bridgestone Senior Players Championship. Also enjoy musical performances by the Sunrise Jones, the Shootouts and the Akron Symphony Orchestra. $10-$200. pgatour.com

6/24 Civil War Lecture Series: Bloody Autumn: The Shenandoah Campaign of 1864 Historians and

6/19-11/13 Introduction to Geocaching for Scouts Scouts can participate in this outdoor

authors Phillip Greenwalt and Daniel Davis discuss their book via Zoom as a part of the 11th season of the Peninsula Foundation’s Civil War Lecture Series. The presentation is free but requires registration. 7 p.m. peninsulahistory.org/cwls

6/19 Medina County Pizza Palooza Pick your favorite slice at this

6/25 Satisfaction Enjoy Rolling Stones

treasure hunt using GPS-enabled devices on select dates. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10:30 a.m.-noon. $8.50 scout member, $14 adult member, $12 scout nonmember, $20 adult nonmember. stanhywet.org

annual pizza competition. Up to eight pizzerias compete for the best, voted on both by judges and by the people.

Also learn about over 50 service and nonprofit groups. Public Square, 2 Public Square, Medina. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. mainstreetmedina.com

26

6/19 Reframe/Remnant/Ritual: Film Premiere

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

tribute music and opener Big Pop. Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St., Akron. 7-10 p.m. Free. lock3live.com

6/25 Tie-Dye by the Lake Meet a naturalist at Summit Lake to get a provided T-shirt and tie-dye it however you want. Summit Metro Parks, Summit Lake, 411 Ira Ave., Akron. 4-5 p.m. summitmetroparks.org 6/25-8/27 Members’ Night Akron Zoo members can visit for an exclusive after-hours event on select Fridays. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron.

5-9 p.m. akronzoo.org

6/26-8/11 “John Chang: In Ink: Transformation of Calligraphy” This exhibit at the Massillon Museum features mixed-media work by John Chang, who was born and raised in China and now lives in California, and it focuses on his memories from both places. Massillon Museum, Studio M Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon.

Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum. org 6/26 Old School Soul Presents Midnight Star Listen to the Kentucky-based band responsible

for ‘80s hits “Midas Touch” and “Operator,” as well as openers Jan Marie and Hubb’s Groove. Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St., Akron. 7-10 p.m. $15 general admission, $20 reserved seating. lock3live.com

6/27 Otter Spotters Talk with naturalists about otters and complete a self-guided scavenger hunt about the playful creatures. Summit Metro Parks, Liberty Park, Pond Brook Conservation Area, 3973 E. Aurora Road, Twinsburg. Noon-3 p.m. summitmetroparks.org 6/27, 7/25, 8/29 & 9/26 Yoga on the West Terrace Join a yoga class in the fresh air and then

stroll the gardens on select dates. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. $12 members, $16 nonmembers. stanhywet.org

6/29-7/4 Akron RubberDucks vs. Bowie Baysox Cheer on the Akron RubberDucks, our

minor league baseball team. For tickets and game times, visit akronrubberducks.com. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron.

7/1 Knight Nation St. Thomas Aquinas High School & Middle School’s annual auction fundraiser kicks off Fourth of July weekend. Enjoy upscale cookout-themed food, a silent auction, a live auction and more outside on the patio.

Skyland Pines Banquet Center & Golf Course, 3550 Columbus Road NE, Canton. 5:30-10 p.m. $75. bit. ly/2021aquinasauction 7/2 E5C4P3 This Journey tribute band performs at Lock 3 as a part of the First Friday celebration, with opening act the Tony Lange Band. Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St., Akron. 7-10 p.m. $5. lock3live.com

7/3 Clue at the Zoo Visit the Akron

Zoo to investigate and find clues to solve a family-friendly mystery. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free members, $13 nonmembers. akronzoo. org

by Kelly Petryszyn, Alexandra Sobczak and Wyatt Loy

Action Packed Get out and gear up to play sports at 330 parks.

From adrenaline-pumping sand volleyball teams to strategic single-player archery, these sports add excitement, challenge and bonding to your summer.

28

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

To the Tee While the pandemic has stalled some activities, locals are flocking to get back in the swing of golf. At Ellsworth Meadows Golf Club in Hudson, nearly 47,000 rounds of golf were played in 2020 — that’s a staggering 12,000 more than the average during PGA head pro Greg Andrego’s tenure at Ellsworth.

“People that had other things they used to do said, I’m going to try to get back in this game,” 49-year-old Andrego observes.

facility that has a 300yard driving range and target rolling fairways and greens, practice greens for chipping and putting and a sand bunker.

“Get used to the body moving the right way, making clean contact with the golf ball,” he says, “Then continue to progress to lengthen the shots.”

On the course, the eighth hole is considered one of the most difficult in Summit County for its left dogleg, fairway that tilts hard right and steeply sloped green, while the 17th hole has a memorable risk/reward challenge over a water hazard that forces players to implement their own strategies.

The city-owned 18-hole manicured public course is a good place to land, as its rolling treelined fairways and fast, undulating greens provide a fun, exciting test for skilled “Golf is exercise outside. golfers and a manageIt’s competition. It’s able test for beginners. camaraderie,” Andrego says. “It’s all about your Locals returning to self-expectation.”

Ellsworth after a while away will find It’s also a sport you can the course, formerly play as you age. He named Big Springs, has recently saw a group been redesigned and with three generaexpanded, and conditions — a grandpa, a tions have become father and a daughter pristine since draincompeting. Hopefully, age and continuous fresh golfers stick with cart paths have been it, and it becomes a added. Plus, there are pastime they can keep new sought-after Finn up through their silver scooters, which can be years. rented for foursomes, accommodate your golf “You can get hooked on bag and allow you to this thing pretty quick,” zip along the course at Andrego says.

18 mph versus a cart’s Daily dawn to dusk, pokey 12 mph.

1101 Barlow Road, Andrego recommends Hudson, 330-655-2267, beginners start with ellsworthmeadows.com the 7-iron, work on the mechanics of their swing and then hit shots at the practice photo by Tylar Sutton

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

29

Speed Zone Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and if you haven’t tried it yet, it may seem familiar — it has similarities to tennis, Ping-Pong, badminton and racquetball.

“It’s like playing PingPong,” says 65-yearold Joe Harold, a board member and the tournament and league director for the Hall of Fame City Pickleball Club in Canton. “It’s that confined, a lot of the same strokes and a lot of the same strategies.”

Each player uses a paddle, commonly made of wood or graphite, to hit a ball a little smaller than a whiffle ball across a 3-foot-tall net, either as a volley or after a bounce. Doubles play games to 11, but you must win by two points. “Action becomes very rapid,” he says.

Harold started playing eight years ago with one friend after his then-26-year-old son tipped him off about the sport. Harold used to coach basketball and turned a basketball court in his yard into a pickleball court.

“I said … Here’s the game for us,” Harold says. His friend played a lot of tennis growing up.

The two met more players at the Hall of Fame Fitness Center, where they played during the winter, and they joined the Hall of Fame City Pickleball 30

Club in 2017. Since pickleball player Aaron Haney founded it that year, the club has grown to nearly 300 members. Some play competitively in leagues with tournaments, and some just play for fun.

On a typical morning at Stadium Park in Canton, 20 to 30 players rotate in and out of matches on the four courts, with six more courts set to open there this summer.

“It’s a tremendous social game,” he says.

“Met so many wonderful people that I would not have met. … You can play a game in 10, 15 minutes and then on to another game or rotate your turn in.”

Although many older adults play, several young people play too.

The club has taught the game to middle school students and invites anyone to join while they’re playing at Stadium Park.

“Amongst the trees, … a hillside which blocks a lot of the wind — these courts are situated in such a great place,” he says.

“It’s just a real gem in the city of Canton.”

Tournaments through Nov. 7, hofcpickleball. com, Other courts at Boettler Park, Jackson Community Park, Waters Park and more spots.

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

photos by Ryanne Locker

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

31

32

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

Set for Joy To play volleyball, Akronite Logan Jennings used to leave the city for leagues in Bath and Cuyahoga Falls. So when he discovered volleyball courts under the State Street Bridge in Akron, he decided to start a league. In 2016, eight teams began playing volleyball there, and Jennings launched Stay in Play Recreation adult sports leagues, with his friend, Andrew Novak.

“The whole idea was to get people out doing things,” says 33-year-old Jennings.

When construction made those courts unusable, the pair worked with the Knight Foundation and the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition to open the Canal Courts.

Between the Towpath Trail and the smokestacks of Canal Place center in the former BFGoodrich factory, they installed four public sand volleyball courts, surrounded by picnic tables and bleachers, in 2018. It’s grown to 78 volleyball teams and 450 players competing in weeknight games. Now called Summit Sports & Social, it also offers kickball, but volleyball is its biggest sport.

“Volleyball is super popular because it’s a game that men and women can play on equal footing,” Jennings says. The all-levels leagues range from men’s, women’s and coed to recreational company faceoffs to intense matchups of excollegiate players. photos by Tylar Sutton

“We have people that probably haven’t played organized sports since gym class in high school,” he says, “that now show up to leagues and absolutely love it.”

It’s easy to start playing volleyball again, especially with the help of Jennings, a men’s volleyball coach at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School who hosts volleyball skills clinics at Goodyear Hall and the Canal Courts. He advises newbies to focus on passing by bumping or setting and not rush to hitting a showstopping spike. “It doesn’t look as cool, but it is important,” he says. “Learn how to pass and you’ll always be on a team.”

While Jennings confesses to being super competitive, he says Summit Sports & Social is more about fun and making friends. They play music and dance. They go for beers after at R. Shea Brewing and Missing Falls Brewery. That laidback approach works, and now, Novak and Jennings are expanding locations — a kickball league starts in Cuyahoga Falls in June — so more adults can enjoy team sports. And they’re set on continuing to grow.

“If you give people the opportunity to do something fun, they’re going to come behind an old warehouse and play volleyball for 22 weeks — in droves,” Jennings says. “So what other opportunities are laying in the lurch?”

Volleyball runs May to September, Sign up at summitsports.social

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

33

Target Run Summit Metro Parks interpretive naturalist Janean Kazimir likes to play tic-tac-toe — with a bow and arrow.

While at the archery range at Hampton Hills Metro Park in Cuyahoga Falls, she and other naturalists teach archery programs that are about more than just target practice. During their games program, classic games like Battleship and Twister sharpen skills by shooting at a ship on the target or shooting from your knees, respectively.

“It really challenges you, because as you’re learning, you’re always focused just on the center of the target,” says the 28-year old instructor. “It really starts to hone [being] able to move around.”

Programs are open to anyone over 50 inches tall and are aimed at myriad skill levels, from a beginner Try It class focused on form, technique and safety to an open shoot program designed for people with some experience. Equipment is provided for programs, but people must bring gear to shoot on their own at the Metro Parks ranges. Choose from the range at Liberty Park, or the ranges at Silver Creek Metro Park and Hampton Hills that both have 34

a raised platform from which you can shoot at targets 10 to 60 yards away.

Archery may seem daunting, but Kazimir has some tips to ease in. First, hold the bow with the hand that corresponds to your nondominant eye. Test which is dominant by making a small opening between your hands, gazing at a far object and figuring out which eye you unconsciously use to peer through the hole. Then, place the aluminum arrow on the synthetic string. Keeping the arm holding the bow straight without overextending it, pull the string back with your other hand, ensuring your elbow is parallel to the ground. “You want to make your body into a T,” she says. “Your hands are very, very close to your face. …

But as long as you’re not touching your face when you let go, it’s gonna be fine.”

Kazimir loves that in archery you can compete against yourself at your own pace. At the range, how many shots you take is up to you.

“It can be a very personal sport,” she says.

“It’s something you can get up and go do yourself. And it’s also something that you can self-challenge.”

Ranges open daily dawn to dusk, summitmetroparks.org

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

photos by Tylar Sutton

Celebrate 100: As you go to Summit Metro Parks, print a Centennial Tour form off the website, mark visits and read signs near parking lots to discover the history of each park in honor of the district’s centennial. Visit all 20 parks by Dec. 31 and turn in your completed form to earn a centennial leather tag.

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

35

On the Fly To the passerby, the disc golf course at Portage Lakes State Park blends into the trees aside from a few wooden signs and metal poles with large circular chain baskets.

Ben Rahe, a 32-year-old Summit County Disc Golf Association board member, explains disc golf, or frisbee golf, as similar to normal golf, where you try to get your disc into the goal basket in the fewest number of throws.

Players typically use at least one of each of the differently shaped and sized disc types: a driver, a midrange and a putter. On one hole, you might throw a driver from the tee to gain distance in the beginning, use a midrange on the fairway and use a putter when you get closer to the basket.

“Each one flies differently,” says Mike Knepp, a 39-year-old Summit DGA board member. “I would suggest a new player start off with throwing more putters or midrange discs to get the technique before moving on to highspeed drivers.”

Like golf, every disc golf course has nine or 18 holes. Each one, about 200 to 500 feet long, has a par value, a tee, a fairway and a green with the goal

36

basket. Rahe and Knepp’s favorite is the 18-hole course at Portage Lakes.

Rahe’s favorite hole is the course’s most challenging: the crescent-shaped, par 4, 14th hole, which is densely wooded and requires carefully throwing through trees. “It starts on an elevated tee area overlooking the lake. For your first shot, you want to hit a tight gap off the tee going downhill,” Rahe says. “You want to hit a landing zone so that [for] your second shot you can throw over the lake to the basket.”

Knepp’s best advice for beginners is to take time perfecting their shot. “It’s a management matter of holding onto your disc, making sure you don’t lose them in the woods or in the water and keeping them on the fairway,” he says. “And just playing the course rather than playing your opponent.”

“It’s super accessible, you’re outside getting good exercise, good mental health,” Rahe says. “When you’re out in nature, it does something for you.”

Join Summit DGA events through October and find disc golf courses at discgolfscene.com/ clubs/summit_dga

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

photos by Ryanne Locker

SPONSORED CONTENT

Stark Parks Stark Parks makes fun affordable! Join us for a free event or visit one of our 15 parks or 125-plus miles of trail in Stark County! We also offer rentals at two marina locations. For more info, check us out at starkparks.com!

Stark Parks 5300 Tyner St. NW, Canton 330-477-3552 starkparks.com

photo by Denny Reiser

Portage Park District Portage Park District manages over 2,400 acres of parkland in Portage County, with six parks and three Hike and Bike Trails. Portage Parks offers a variety of natural environments including wetlands, forests, meadows and more. The Wild Hikes Challenge encourages participants to hike our trails to earn rewards — and is a great way to explore the Portage Park District!

Portage Park District 705 Oakwood St. #G-4, Ravenna 330-297-7728 portageparkdistrict.org

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

37

HEALTH & WELLNESS

[ by Alexandra Sobczak and Wyatt Loy and photos by Elizabeth Tipton ]

Movement Flow Yoga Squared combines yoga and running for a total body exercise.

Do a sun salutation, an airplane pose, a chair pose, crescent lunges and more during 20 minutes of yoga in the fresh air of Will Christy Park before setting off on a 3-mile run around the Highland Square area of Akron. There are physical and mental benefits to running, yoga and being outdoors, so the Yoga Squared Run Club brings them all together while surrounding you with other runners, walkers and yogis.

“Tapping into the natural elements of the planet will give you a sense of energy and a drive like no other,” says Kate Woodford-Shell, the coowner of Yoga Squared and a Run Club instructor. “It’s connecting to the Earth and connecting to each other.”

Part of the goal of the studio, which Woodford-Shell’s now wife, Nikki, opened in December 2016, is to make yoga accessible. Participants don’t need to be members, pay a fee or be an experienced runner to attend the club on the last Thursday of each month. Each meeting ends with encouraged stretching and then an optional hangout at a local restaurant or bar. All runners can bond beforehand, too, during yoga.

“When you run, you’re running at all different paces,” Woodford-Shell says. “The yoga thing is so that we can all come together and move and breathe as one … and to get into that space where we feel very interconnected to the people around us.” [continued on page 40]

38

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

Partnering with

HEALTH & WELLNESS

[continued from page 38]

Seasoned runners can benefit from adding yoga, she says. Some runners have told her that they don’t always warm up their muscles or stretch the way they should, so the yoga session serves as a way to focus your mind, ground your spirit and prepare you physically for running. It activates your mind and gets your body feeling strong.

“Finding that interconnectedness is really, really important,” Woodford-Shell says. “This is the union of the mind, body and spirit.”

Yoga Squared offers a plethora of yoga styles, from beginner-friendly Hatha yoga to hot power yoga to yoga Nidra — a type of meditation — to yoga and weights classes and more. Any style of yoga and running are symbiotic, as yoga can also help your breath, which is essential in running. “Yoga is about breathing,” she says. “We get a lot of runners who say, I’m so much more aware of my breathing during my run because of yoga.”

Woodford-Shell started her running journey near the beginning of the COVID19 pandemic when Yoga Squared was [continued on page 42] 40

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

UNITY HEALTH NETWORK IS YOUR SOURCE FOR PRIMARY CARE

Looking for a

Great Doctor in

Akron?

Unity Health Network is available for patients like you to provide local, high-quality care for life. Our doctors and care providers are ready to help – from annual wellness visits and the most common health needs to chronic conditions, Unity Health Network is your first point of contact for personalized, comprehensive care.

Call us today – our primary care physicians and specialists are in your neighborhood.

Dr. Joshua Harbert, Family Medicine

unityhealthnetwork.org 3333 Massillon Road, Suite 102 Akron, Ohio 44312 330-926-3235

Dr. Valerie Johnson, Internal Medicine

Strike a Pose

[continued from page 40]

closed and started the Run Club this April. Running gave her some peace of mind to know her lungs were strengthening and her cardiovascular health was improving. “I feel stronger,” she says. “I feel mentally stronger.”

Even while running on her own, she does 20 minutes of yoga poses beforehand. “I’m always doing like, chair poses and crescent warrior, and my sun salutations, and making sure my muscles are turned on before I head out the door,” Woodford-Shell says. “That kind of mimics the movement of running. … The ones that activate your leg muscles are going to be best.” She adds that she does deep stretching afterward for her muscles and joints.

That habit helps her body best perform, which is an aim of the club too. “My goal is to really help people to not get injured,” she says, “and also just to have the best possible run, jog or walk that they can.”

You can not only get guidance and reap physical and mental benefits from joining the club, but you can also meet other people, build a community and grow new friendships.

“It’s important for us as a community to help each other,” Woodford-Shell says, “and support each other in that pursuit of being mentally, spiritually and physically fit.” yogasquaredakron.com

42

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

Activate Take in fresh air and a good workout with these other outdoor classes.

Downtown Fitness: Soak up the sights and sounds of Lock 3 while Yoga Squared leads yoga sessions every Tuesday from June 1 to Sept. 28 or while Just Us Line Dance Crew leads line dancing on Sundays from June 6 to Sept. 26. Or head to Cascade Plaza Thursdays from June 3 to Sept. 30 for your choice of workout: Taiji (tai chi) on lunch breaks, as well as kickboxing or line dancing during evenings. There, on select Saturdays, including June 5 and 12, pump up your energy with Zumba. Free, Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron; Cascade Plaza, 1 W. Mill St., Akron, downtownakron.com/summer Stretching: Grab your hiking staff for some stretches and movements during this outdoor workshop focused on posture, mobility, strength and brain integration, hosted by Nancy Gardner, an instructor with 26 years of experience in tai chi, martial arts and qigong, an ancient Chinese exercise. $20, June 6, Center for Mind-Body Harmony, 1923 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, ngenergy.us Tyrannosaurus Flex DrumFit: Wearing glowsticks and using glow-in-the-dark drumsticks to pound a yoga ball, participants do DrumFit, which is cardio that burns 600 to 800 calories a session, and this glow-in-dark class makes it into a party. $6, June 4 & 18, July 2, 16 & 30, Aug. 13 & 27, First Christian Church parking lot, 3493 Darrow Road, Stow, tflexfitness.com Yoga on Draft: Do an all-levels flow led by Yoga Lounge & Barre in the open air at High Bridge Glens park and reward your hard work with a 10-ounce beer at HiHo Brewing Co. after. $15, June 13, High Bridge Glens, 1817 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, facebook.com/ yogaloungehudson

GOOD EATS

JUNE 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 6

Restaurants [ notable food & drink ]

B Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner A Alcohol available T Takeout available V Valet parking W Wheelchair Accessible $ average entrees less than $6 $$ average entrees between $6-$10 $$$ average entrees between $11-$16 $$$$ average entrees are $17 or higher Information subject to change.

Please call ahead to verify location, hours and events.

Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices. 250 W. Market St., Akron, 330-376-0600 $$ B, L, D, T, W Aladdin’s Eatery Outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St., Akron, 330-535-0110; 1991 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-4640; 44 Park Lane, Hudson 330-656-0560; 3895 Medina Road, Fairlawn, 330-665-3102 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Al’s Corner Restaurant Old World comfort food served cafeteria style. Cabbage rolls and sausage made locally are a favorite. 155 Second St. NW, Barberton, 330-475-7978 $$ L, T, W Alexander Pierce Fine dining menu of steaks and house-made pastas includes calamari misto and cavatelli alla vodka in an intimate speakeasystyle atmosphere. 797 E. Market St., Akron, 330-529-2003 $$$ D, A Arcadia Grille Authentic Italian cuisine with pasta and chops. Breakfast served Sat. and Sun. A local favorite for more than 85 years. 321 Court Ave. NW, Canton, 330-454-6055 $$ B, L, D, A, W Arnie’s Public House An attractive, affordable restaurant with a modern twist on comfort food. Featuring award-winning burgers, chicken and waffles, fish and chips, pasta and vegetarian dishes. Also serving brunch on Sat. and Sun. 1682 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-0154 $$$ L,D,A,T, W Arnie’s West Branch Steak House Casual dining, specializing in steak, ribs and seafood. 5343 state Route 14, Ravenna, 330-297-1717 $$$ D, A, T Barley House Hot and cold deli sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, soups 44

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

and more. 222 S. Main St., Akron, 330-374-0925 $$ L, D, A, T, W Basil Asian Bistro Menu features Thai, Chinese and Korean dishes, as well as sushi and Vietnamese specialties.

585 Market Ave. N, Canton, 330-4523888 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn. 3180 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-867-5218 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Beau’s on the River Stunning views of the falls with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary decor. Fusion eclectic cuisine, lunch buffet and Sun. brunch. Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-920-7530 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Belgrade Gardens Famous for fried chicken and homestyle cooking. 401 E. State St., Barberton, 330-745-0113; 3476 Massillon Road, Uniontown, 330-896-3396 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Bellacino’s Known for grinders, pizza, pasta and fresh salads. Full bar, patio and banquet room with dance floor.

3657 Fishcreek Road, Stow, 330-6783000 $$ L, D, A, T, W Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood. 137 Court Ave. SW, Canton, 330-453-8424 $$$$ L, D, A, T Bianca’s Italian Ristorante & Lounge Traditional Italian, juicy steaks and fresh seafood. 4284 Beverly Hills Drive, Brunswick, 330-225-0927 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Big Eu’es BBQ Known for delicious barbecue meals and Kool Aid pies.

The takeout spot also has a small dining area. 1730 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-706-6700 $$ L, D, T Big Eye Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar Menu offers a variety of sushi as well as salads, soups, appetizers, cooked entrees and vegan options to suit everyone at your table. 2965 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-836-4433 $$$ L, D, A, T, W The Bistro at Gervasi Vineyard Situated on a 55-acre estate in a renovated historic barn that overlooks a beautiful lake. Serving rustic Italian fare using only fresh and seasonal ingredients. 1700 55th St. NE,

Canton, 330-497-1000 $$$ L, D, A Bistro on Main House-made desserts, hand-cut steaks and fresh pasta.

1313 W. Main St., Kent, 330-673-9900 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Block 7 Bar & Grill Fresh-ground burgers, unique sandwiches, onion rings and more. 524 W. Tuscarawas St., Barberton, 330-745-7677 $$ L, D, A, T, W Blue Canyon Kitchen & Tavern Creative American cuisine in six natureinspired dining environments. Sun. brunch buffet. 8960 Wilcox Drive, Twinsburg, 330-486-2583 $$$$ L, D, A, T, W Blue Door Cafe & Bakery Chef-driven sandwiches, quiche, soups, crepes, house-made pastries and rotating specials made using local ingredients. Voted No. 1 brunch in Ohio. Drive-thru available. 1970 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-926-9774 $$$ B, L, T, A Berlin Farmstead Enjoy regionallyinspired and homestyle meals including the all-you-can-eat Barn Raising Buffet with mashed potatoes and a salad bar. 4757 Township Road 366, Berlin, 330-893-4600 $$ B, L, D, W, T Blu Plate Fine Southern-inspired fare in the Blu Jazz club with dinner and show packages available. 45 E. Market St., Akron, 330-252-1190 $$$ D, W, A, T Bob’s Hamburg Classic family diner with affordable favorites such as the BBQ Bonanza burger. 1351 East Ave., Akron, 330-253-2627 $ B, L, D, W, T Boiling House Authentic Louisiana seafood boils with king crab legs and lobster tail. A unique sushi menu diversifies the offerings. 1 W. Exchange St., Akron, 234-571-9692 $$$$ L, D, T Bomba Taco & Bar Chef-inspired Latin tacos, international rice bowls and creative desserts like mango mojito sorbet and churro ice cream sandwiches. 3900 Medina Road, Akron, 234-466-7180 $$$ L, D, A, T Bombay Sitar Fine Indian cuisine. Food is natural and prepared fresh daily.

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

Go t

o

.com nlife ore akro m

w to vie aurants st e r . a re a ents & ev

restaurant is known for its eclectic seasonal menu, wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. 1 W. Exchange St., Akron, 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T, V, W Bricco in Kent Menu is modeled after the original Bricco in downtown Akron. À la carte brunch on Sun. 210 S. Depeyster St., Kent, 330-677-1335 $$$ L, D, A, T Brick Oven Brew Pub Handcrafted traditional, deep-dish, specialty and dessert pizzas, calzones, appetizers, salads and nano-brewed beer. 604 Canton Road, Akron, 330-475-7005 $$ D, A, T Brew Wall Sample a vast amount of pour-it-yourself beers and wines while you nosh on wood-fired pizza and sandwiches from the crew behind Antonio’s Pizza. 3161 Heritage Drive, Copley, 330-576-6880 $$$ L, D, A, W, T Brubaker’s Pub Specialty sandwiches, wraps, pizzas, appetizers and a full bar. Bottomless soup and salad special. 4005 Medina Road, Montrose, 330-666-8021; 5823 Darrow Road, Hudson, 330-650-9401; 3939 Massillon Road, Green, 330896-8803; 4141 Bridgewater Parkway, Stow, 330-475-1525 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Burntwood Tavern Owned by the same couple that runs the other Burntwood locations in Rocky River, Brecksville, Chagrin Falls and Solon, this restaurant’s menu features steaks, sliders, hand-cut fries, smoked, planked and woodgrilled food. 2291 Riverfront Parkway, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-794-7085 burntwoodtavern.com $$$$ L, D, A, T, W The Cabin Upscale Italian within the Mario’s International Spa and Hotel complex. 35 E. Garfield Road, Aurora, 330-562-9171 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Café Bricco This menu is a smaller version of the one at the original Bricco location downtown.

DoubleTree Hotel, 3150 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-835-2203 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Cafe Tandoor Casual atmosphere, Indian Go to akronlife.com to view more area restaurants & events.

GOOD EATS UNCORKED

[ by Mike McKenney ]

Pompette Cincinnati, Ohio At first, hard seltzers seemed like a fad when they gained popularity in the summer of 2019. Now, brands like White Claw and Truly dominate, and it’s clear hard seltzers have become a fixture.

bottl

e

$9.99

Several variations have popped up — including wine, beer, malt and spirit-based spins — and new choices keep hitting shelves. Take Pompette, French for “tipsy,” which is one of the only hard seltzers to come in a shareable, resealable, 750-milliliter glass bottle.

The Mediterranean-style hard sparkling water is sourced from Europe and made with natural ingredients. It’s preservative-free and gluten-free and has only 40 calories and 2 grams of sugar per 6-ounce serving.

Pompette hard sparkling waters are a healthier alternative to traditional wines and beers while being refreshing enough for lazy summer day drinking and elevated enough for dinner parties.

e bottl

$9.99

Released in local stores last month, these delicious flavors can also be spiked for an extra kick.

CLEMENTINE BERRY If you like flavor-forward refreshers, this is a must-try. It pairs the sweetness of a clementine upfront with a mouthwatering juicy blueberry finish.

Stir in a shot of your favorite vodka to punch it up.

Find Pompette at Dave’s Markets, Heinen’s Fine Foods, Lucky’s Market and Buehler’s Fresh Foods.

[ Mike McKenney is a manager at Heidelberg Distributing Co. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

CUCUMBER LIME This bottle is for those who are searching for a crisp sip akin to fruit-infused water. Mix this with your favorite gin and add a slice of cucumber and a lime wedge to create a refreshing cocktail.

LEMON MINT Those who have a taste for something herbal should try the lemon mint. Pour in some Blanco Tequila to make a cocktail so good that it challenges a margarita.

bottl

e

$9.99

ROSÉ HIBISCUS This one is your solution to rosé wine cravings without the added calories and sugars. Add a splash of elderflower liqueur to craft a bubbly cocktail that’s on the next level.

bottl

e

$9.99

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

45

GOOD EATS

cheese, as well as Sunday brunch. 5010 S. Main St., Akron, 330-882-CASK (2275) $$$ L, D, A Ceedo’s Eatery Traditional Middle Eastern food — kosher and halal — including shawarma and falafel, stuffed whole lamb, hummus, tabbouleh and kibbeh. Closed Mon. 4147 Bridgewater Parkway, Stow, 330-940-2424 $$ B, L, D, T Cellar 59 Wine Bar & Wine Shop The menu in this renovated 19th-century farmhouse features small plates and desserts, as well as bottles of wine and craft beer. Closed Sun. and Mon. 3984 Kent Road, Stow, 330688-2684 $$$ L, D, A, T China City Traditional Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting. 156 Cherry St., Kent, 330-673-6566 $$ L, D, A, T Chowder House Cafe Salads, soups, sandwiches and clam chowder. Bring your own wine and beer, $5 corkage fee. Delivery available. 2028 Chestnut Blvd., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-794-7102 $$$ L, D, T No credit cards Cilantro Upscale Thai and Japanese, extensive menu, fresh ingredients, handselected sushi and no monosodium glutamate.

Eclectic atmosphere. 326 S. Main St., Akron, 330-4342876 $$$ L, D, A, T Circle L Steakhouse at the Galaxy The new menu offers a wide selection of steak cuts, and the atmosphere provides an upscale, rustic feel. Sun. brunch and live entertainment. Carryout and Curbside pickup available. 201 Park Centre Drive, Wadsworth, 330-3343663 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Corkscrew Saloon Specializes in fresh seafood, steaks and chops, prepared by executive chef Ryan Marino. Live entertainment Wed. nights. 811 W. Liberty, Medina, 330-725-0220 $$$$ L, D, A, T Craft Social Bar A large variety of craft beer, cocktails, wines and whiskeys that accompany upscale bar food. Watermark Building, 1846 Front St., Suite G, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-5711409 $$$ D, A, T, V Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with 46

bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 57 E. Market St., Akron, 330-2531234 $$ L, D, A, T, V Crave Cantina Latin fare meets global tacos at this modern, artistic eatery from the owner of Crave in downtown Akron. Pair your eclectic taco choices with a rum flight of your choice.

2097 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-940-2000 $$$$ L, D, A, T The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard A modern industrial building that houses a state-of-the-art winery facility, wine bar and eatery. Perfect for a fun lunch, casual dinner or late snack. 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330-497-1000, ext. 5 $$ L, D, A D’Agnese’s Tomato Grill Wide array of entree choices.

Sun. brunch. Catering available. 106 First St., Hudson, 330-342-3771 $$$$ L, D, A, T D’Agnese’s at White Pond Contemporary Italian food served in a classy yet casual setting. Live entertainment in the lounge. Full service catering. 566 White Pond Drive, Akron, 234-678-3612 $$$ L, D, A, T Danny Boy’s If you love the Rat Pack, you’ll love this menu. Try the Old Blue Eyes Mac & Cheese or the Chairman of the Board Calzone. 6081 Dressler Road N, Canton, 330-4993726; 10 Tallmadge Circle, Tallmadge, 330-633-7844 $$$ L, D, A, T Darby’s on Fifty-Nine Rustic dining with an assortment of dishes, including crispy calamari and filet mignon sliders, complemented by craft beer. 2764 state Route 59, Cuyahoga Falls, 330922-7540 $$$ L, D, A, T Dave’s Cosmic Subs Sign the walls at this sub shop, featuring psychedelic and music memorabilia decor.

186 N. Main St., Hudson, 330-342-5666 $$ L, D, T D.B.A., Dante Boccuzzi Akron, Modern American food in a rock ‘n’ roll palace setting.

Several menu items can be ordered in varied portion sizes, based on your appetite. Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Order a drink and relax on the restaurant’s spacious patio. 21 Furnace St.,

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

Akron, 330-375-5050 $$$$ D, A, T, V Delanie’s Grille Comfort food, sporty atmosphere and full bar. Carryout available. 67 West Ave., Tallmadge, 330630-2888 $$$ L, D, A, T Deli Ohio Fresh deli sandwiches made with all-natural products from throughout Ohio. 328 Walnut Ave. NE, Canton, 330-453-7777; 706 S. Main St., North Canton , 234714-9055 $$ L, D, T Der Dutchman A family-friendly comfort food restaurant in Amish Country offering a seniors’ menu, options for vegans and other special diets, along with housemade pies. 720 state Route 97 W, Bellville, 419-8667070 $$ B, L, D, W, T Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970. Specializes in familystyle shish kebabs. 204 12th St. NW, Canton, 330456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A Dewey’s Pizza This familyfriendly pizza joint has offers gluten-free, dairyfree, soy-free and vegan versions of all pizzas, so that everyone can get in on the fun. Beyond pizza, find specialty items such as the candied walnut and grape salad. At Summit Mall, 3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-873-4444 $$$ L, D, A, T Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St., Akron, 330-762-5877 $ B, L, A, D (Saturdays only), T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, authentic 1950s-style decor. All steaks are hand-cut, and seafood is flown in fresh.

77 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No credit cards Divine Food Spirits and Wine Casual and upscale American fare, a scratch kitchen and a wide drink selection. 2752 Hudson Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, 234334-4400 $$$$ D, A, T Dontino’s Fine Italian Cuisine Homestyle Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T Downtown 140 New American cuisine using 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 Driftwood at Embassy Suites Upscale casual dining featuring our multi-awardwinning chili, handmade pasta and other entrees crafted in an open kitchen.

Save room for a delightful made-from-scratch dessert, including our cinnamon roll cheesecake.

Inside Embassy Suites

by Hilton Akron Canton Airport, 7883 Freedom Ave. NW, North Canton, 330305-0500 $$$ D Eadie’s Fish House Bar & Grill All kinds of seafood, including fried alligator bites, lobster tail and homemade lump crab cakes. 6616 Road NW, North Canton, 330-4944000 $$$ L, D, A, T Eddy’s Deli and Restaurant Try the banana split waffle, a corned beef sandwich or chicken paprikash. 2655 Oakwood Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-7489; 4581 Kent Road, Stow, 330-3460551 $$ B, L, D, T Edgar’s Restaurant Serves a variety of entrees, such as chargrilled grouper.

Homemade soups, salads and starters. 530 Nome Ave. at Good Park Golf Course, Akron, 330-8693000 $$$ D, A, T El Campesino Authentic Mexican cuisine. Carryout or delivery available. 4360 Kent Road, Stow, 330-6865561; 9169 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330-6269777; 4048 Lincoln Way E., Massillon, 330-477-8731 $$$ 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. 1080 Interstate Parkway, Green, 330-6447700 $$ L, D, A, T El Rancho Traditional Mexican fare made fresh from scratch each day. Weekly margarita and happy hour specials. 4065 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9228112; 1678 W. Exchange St., Akron, 330-864-3300 $$ L, D, A, T El Rincon Authentic Mexican cuisine. 720 S. Main St., North Canton, 330-4972229 $$ L, D, A, T Emidio & Sons Since 1957, the family-owned Italian

restaurant has been serving house-made pastas and specialty pizzas. 636 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-4777; 3204 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-4282 $$ B, L, D, T Erie Street Kitchen The chefdriven food counter inside the historic Venice Cafe in downtown Kent serves up authentic Southern comfort food with a twist, including a Nashville hot chicken banh mi and chevre goat cheese balls.

163 Erie St., Kent, 330-5935928 $$$ D, A, W, T Everest Restaurant Authentic Indian and Nepali meals include curry and gulab jamun, a sweet deepfried cheese dessert, in a no-frills restaurant run by Nepali natives. 2033 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 234706-6630 $$ L, D, W, T The Eye Opener Diner-style menu features jams and jellies from Crooked River Herb Farm. Upscale decor includes photos of historic Akron. 1688 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-1114 $$ B, L, D, T Farmer Boy Restaurant House specialties include Greek souvlaki, broaster chicken and delicious desserts.

1324 Canton Road, Akron, 330-784-4052 $$ B, L, D, T Fat Head’s Brewery A brewpub with well-known beers, sandwiches as big as your head and hearty appetizers like fried pickles, pepper jack bites and Beasty BBQ wings. 3885 Everhard Road NW, Canton, 330-244-8601 $$$ L, D, W, A, T Firehouse Grill & Pub Watch sports and enjoy steaks and Buffalo wings.

10 Tallmadge Circle, Tallmadge, 330-634-9967 $$ L, D, A, T Fisher’s Café & Pub American cuisine. 1607 Main St., Peninsula, 330-657-2651 $$ L, D, A, T Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Aged beef, chops, fresh seafood, salad and more than 100 wines by the glass. 4000 Medina Road, Akron, 330-670-5200 $$$$ D, A, T Flip Side Gourmet, Ohioraised beef burgers with chef-crafted condiments, toppings and sides; freerange organic chicken breast sandwiches; and

GOOD EATS market fresh salads. Craft beer on tap. 49 Village Way, Hudson, 330-6553547 $$ L, D, A, T Foundry Social Have some nostalgic fun with games like duckpin bowling or electric go-karts while enjoying craft cocktails, elevated pub sandwiches and share plates. 333 Foundry St., Medina, 330333-9000 $$ L, D, A Franklin Hotel Bar An upscale downtown Kent bar featuring craft cocktails, share plates and small plates. 176 E. Main St., Kent, 330-676-1000 $$ D, A Franklin Square Deli Quality sandwich shop with a racing theme. 108 S. Water St., Kent, 330-673-2942 $$ L, T Fred’s Diner Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch. 930 Home Ave., Akron, 330-535-3733 $ B, L, T Fresco Mexican Grill and Salsa Bar A new Mexican cuisine experience in the Kent area. Big burritos, tacos, warm soups, quesadillas and more. Known for its beer selection and extensive salsa bar. 100 E. Erie St., Kent, 330-6772588 $$ L, D, A, T The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building. Fantastic desserts. 201 Park Centre Drive, Wadsworth, 330334-3663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Garretts Mill Breakfast items, sandwiches, soup and house-made ice cream.

4226 Hudson Drive, Stow, 330-926-1344 $$ B, L, T Gasoline Alley Eclectic menu featuring pizza, salads, sandwiches and sauerkraut balls. 870 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-2670 $$$ L, D, A, T Girves Brown Derby An Akron favorite since 1941.

Hardwood-fired fresh-cut steaks, seafood, wine, craft beer and full-service bar. 4670 Everhard Road, Canton, 330-494-4413; 5051 Eastpointe Drive, Medina, 330-721-1731; 9230 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330-626-2171; brownderbyusa.com $$$$ L (only on weekends), D, A, T, W Golden Dragon Chinese fare.

Also offers traditional Japanese cooking and sushi. 1634 State Road,

Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9291109 $$ L, D, A, T Green Diamond Grille & Pub Upscale dining without upscale pricing.

Specializes in steaks, chops, baby back ribs and seafood. 125 Second St., Barberton, 330-745-1900 $$$ L, D, A, T Grinders Above & Beyond Family restaurant.

Grinders, burgers, dinners, appetizers, house-made soups and pies. 1671 N. Main St., North Canton, 330-497-4800; 3114 Whipple Ave., Canton, 330-477-5411; 1212 Maple, Hartville, 330-587-4280; 1820 W. State St., Alliance, 330-821-6665; 404 E. Lincoln Way, Minerva, 330868-7824; 500 W. Main St., Louisville, 330-875-9700 $ L, D, A, T Guiseppe’s Pizza Familyowned pizzeria known for its Sicilian-style square pizza. 14 E. Caston Road, Akron, 330-644-8842 $$ L, D, T H2 Huth & Harris Wine Merchants With a selection of over 200 wines, this Medinabased winery serves up a sizable selection in a rustic, cellar-like atmosphere. Also offers large selection of craft beers, ciders, kombucha, meads and a large selection of tapas dishes.

221 S. Court St., Medina; 427 Tuscarawas St. E, Canton: 330-815-4959 $$$ L, D, A, T Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery A spacious restaurant serving homestyle food made from scratch with a bakery, oil and vinegar tasting room and candy shop on the site of the Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market.

1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330-877-9353 $$$ L, D, T, W Henry Wahner’s Restaurant An old favorite across from Kent State University.

Complete German menu.

German-style bar with beers served in ice-cold steins. 1609 E. Main St., Kent, 330-678-4055 $$$$ D, A, T No credit cards Hibachi Japan Steak House Japanese hibachi-style cooking, great steak and sushi. 1803 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9283333 $$$ L, D, A, T HiHO Brewing Co. Former

educators and co-owners Ali and Jon Hovan plate up fresh pizza with housemade dough and sauce along with myriad draft beers brewed in house.

1707 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-7564 $$$ L, D, A Honeymoon Grille Check out our new building: We even have patio seating! Portage Lakes neighborhood gathering place since 2013 that features made-to-order breakfast, lobster bisque, organic salads, handcut steaks, specialty sandwiches, fresh-ground burgers, colossal onion rings, hand-battered mushrooms and more.

Catering menu and private room rental available.

3458 Manchester Road, 330-644-4355 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Hopocan Gardens Barbertonstyle chicken. 4396 W. Hopocan Ave., Barberton, 330-825-9923 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards House of Hunan Common favorites to spicy specialties. Oriental decor. 2717 W. Market St., Fairlawn Town Centre, 330-864-8215; 18 Public Square, Medina, 330-7221899 $$ L, D, A, T Hudson’s Restaurant Neighborhood restaurant and bar serving fresh, chef-driven dishes. Familyfriendly atmosphere. 80 N. Main St., Hudson, 330-6501955 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse New York-style upscale steakhouse. 4073 Medina Road, Montrose, 330-6706303 $$$$ D, A, T, V Ido Bar & Grill Home of the beloved Ido Burger. An Akron tradition since World War II. 1537 S. Main St., Akron, 330-773-1724 $$$ L, D, A, T Jilly’s Music Room Creative American tapas in a sophisticated setting with live music, concerts and events Wed. through Sat. All gluten-free menu. 111 N. Main St., Akron, 330576-3757 $$, D, A, T, W Jimmy’s Backyard BBQ A family-friendly restaurant known for award-winning baby back ribs. 526 Graham Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-349-6949; 1338 N. Chapel St., Suite 1, Louisville, 330-871-0006

$$ L, D, T Jimmy Bigg’s Grille Burgers, Italian subs, Reubens, wings, Philly cheesesteak, BLTs, salads, handbreaded onion rings and more. 1927 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9292444 $$ 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, 330-334-7141; 3875 Massillon Road, Suite 300, Uniontown, 330-8999788 $$$ 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, 330-867-2555 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Ken Stewart’s Lodge Casual, Adirondack-style atmosphere, eclectic cuisine. 1911 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330666-8881 $$$$ D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Tre Belle Italian atmosphere and authentic cuisine. Specialties include an antipasto bar, big drinks and an extensive wine list. 1911 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-9990 $$$ D, A, V, T Kennedy’s BBQ Pit-smoked ham, pork, beef, turkey, pulled pork sandwiches topped with cabbage relish, bean soup, chili and Troyer’s pie by the slice. 1420 Seventh St. NW, Canton, 330-454-0193 $ L, D, T Kingfish A posh yet sleek interior features the freshest seafood of North Coast. Dress is business casual. Reservations recommended. Happy Hour bar only weekdays 4-6 p.m.; Sun. 1-8 p.m.

Dinner weekdays 4-10 p.m.; Fri and Sat 4-11 p.m.; Sunday 1-8 p.m.

Closed major holidays and Super Bowl Sunday.

115 Montrose West Ave., Copley. 330-777-2005. kingfishakron.com. $$$$ D, A Kosar’s Wood-Fired Grill Awardwinning steakhouse offering aged steaks, fresh chops and expertly prepared seafood tastefully in an upscale

space decorated with beloved former Cleveland Browns player Bernie Kosar’s own authentic memorabilia. At the MGM Northfield Park casino. 21 and over only.

10777 Northfield Road, Northfield, 330-908-7265 $$$$ D, A Kozmo’s Grille Stone-hearth pizzas, upscale pasta dishes, fresh seafood and steaks. 37 First St. SW, Massillon, 330-832-8807 $$$ L, D, A, T LagerHeads BBQ Smokehouse and Brewing Co. Try the barbecue ribs, smoked wings and beer cheese soup, made with Barnburner lager. For dessert, taste the fruit crisp made with grains used to brew their signature beers.

2832 Abbeyville Road, Medina, 330-725-1947 $$$ L, D, A, T Lanning’s Restaurant Elegant dining atmosphere with a beautiful view. More than 150 types of wine. 826 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-1159, 330864-2553 $$$$ D, A, T, V Larry’s Main Entrance Englishpub style, burgers of note.

1964 W. Market St., Akron, 330-864-8162 $$ L, D, A, T Laziza High-end Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, plus steak and seafood dishes and a full bar. Acorn Alley, 195 E. Erie St., Kent, 330677-7000 $$$ L, D, A, T Lembo’s Italian Restaurant Weekday lunchtime salad and pizza buffet, Italian specialties, chicken dinners and sandwiches.

Daily specials, lunch specials, kids’ menu. 1186 Canton Road, Akron, 330733-7586 $$$ L, D, A, T The Leopard Eclectic menu with American, Asian, French and Italian influences. Features sevencourse chef’s table, prix fixe. 600 N. Aurora Road, Aurora, 330-562-2111 $$$$ D, A, T, V Lizardville Large selection of draft and bottled beers, whiskey and cigars to enjoy on site or take home.

Try the Wild Western burger and a glass of Weller Antique Winking Lizard Edition. 21 and over only. 79 Springside Dr., Akron, 330-644-1782 $$ D, A, T The Lockview Traditional JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

47

GOOD EATS

American favorites. Fresh menu with spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St., Akron, 330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T Luca’s New York Style Pizza Pizza, calzones, stromboli, cheesesteaks and subs.

3451 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-688-9595 $$$ D, T Lucia’s Steakhouse Located at Belden Village. Fresh seafood, signature garlic butter-topped steaks, Italian favorites and Lucia classics, like house-made crab cakes or cubanella and long, hot peppers.

Closed Sun. 4769 Belpar St. NW, Canton, 330-4929933 $$$$ D, A Lukity Country Inn Homestyle comfort food. 2697 Manchester Road, Akron, 330-753-5983 $$ B, L, D, T Magic City’s Remarkable Diner Chef-driven breakfast and lunch menu with surprising twists on diner classics, like the smoked salmon and Brie omelet. 451 Fairview Ave., Barberton, 330-983-9787 $$ B, L, T Maize Valley Winery & Craft Brewery Sample wine by bottle or glass, as well as craft beer.

Taste 100-plus types of cheeses. Appetizers and sandwiches. 6193 Edison St. NE, Hartville, 330-8778344 $$ L, D, A, T Melt Bar & Grilled This sandwich bar allows you to enjoy redesigned, gourmet versions of the grilled cheese sandwich, along with ice cold beers and a great atmosphere.

Patio dining is also available. 3921 Medina Road, Akron, 330-983-0015 $$ L, D, A, T The Merchant Tavern With Owner Anthony Piscazzi’s family history running Akron’s beloved Wine Merchant restaurant and Chef Victor Todaro in the kitchen, this new restaurant already has a great start. Retail wines available. Tues., Wed., Thurs. 3:30 p.m.-midnight, Fri. 3:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m., Sat. noon-1:30 a.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m. Lunch served on weekends. 1824 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-865-9510 $$$ L, D, A, T Michael’s AM Casual, family-

48

style dining. Full breakfast and lunch menu featuring sandwiches and daily specials.1562 Akron Peninsula Road, Akron, 330-929-3447 $$ B, L, T No credit cards Mike’s Place Unique atmosphere, extensive menu. 1700 S. Water St., Kent, 330-673-6501 $$ B, L, D, A, T Missing Falls Brewery Located in the historic BF Goodrich factory, Missing Falls Brewery is the latest addition to Akron’s craft brewery scene. Offering sixteen craft beers, a spacious taproom, an open brewery concept, and a family friendly environment in a turn of the century piece of Americana. Oh, did we mention artisan pizza too? 540 S. Main St., Suite 112, Akron, 234-231-1000 missingfalls.com $$ A Moe’s Restaurant Hip, intimate atmosphere featuring a diverse chalkboard menu that changes monthly.

Martinis, cocktails and extensive selection of wines by the glass. Closed Sun. 2385 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9286600 $$$$ L, D, A, T Molly Brown’s Country Cafe Big breakfasts, South of the Border menu items and large portions. 518 Canton Road, Akron, 330-7844711; 493 Portage Lakes Drive, Akron, 234-312-9351 $$ B, L, T Mr. Zubs Deli Features hot and cold sandwiches named after movie characters, cream cheese spreads, salads and sides. Open late night. 795 W. Market St., Akron, 330-252-0272 $ L, D, T 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, 330-8193834 $ B, L, D, T Mulligan’s Pub Local antique decor, award-winning barbecue ribs, extensive menu. 4118 Belden Village St. NW, Canton, 330-4938239 $$$ L, D, A, T Mustard Seed Market & Cafe Located on mezzanine overlooking the Highland Square natural foods

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

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.

Sun. brunch. 3885 W. Market St., Montrose, 330666-7333; 867 W. Market St., Akron, 330-434-7333 $$$ L, D, T Nepali Kitchen Authentic Nepali cuisine like paneer pakora alongside familiar Asian favorites like chicken curry and chow Mein. 399 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-631-1112 $$$ L, D, W, T New Era Restaurant A mainstay of the Akron area.

Heavenly paprikash and other Hungarian favorites.

10 Massillon Road, Akron, 330-784-0087 $$ B, L, D, A, T Niko’s Sandwich Board Cafe Fresh salads, smallbatch soups made from scratch daily, handcrafted sandwiches. Menu includes several veggie, vegan and gluten-free selections. 1947 W. Market St., Suite 104, Akron, 330794-5444 $$ L, D, T Oak and Embers Tavern Southern-style barbecue brisket, pork, ribs and chicken with signature drinks including the Devil’s Grandma and the Revolver. 7774 Darrow Road, Hudson, 234-6021056 $$$ L, D, W, A, T The Oaks Lakeside Casual dining, fabulous ambiance in 1914 estate. Outdoor dining and water views.

Banquet facility. 5878 Longacre Lane, Chippewa Lake, 330-769-2601 $$$$ D, A 111 Bistro House Manager Meghan Pender and Executive Chef Anthony Scolaro own this new eatery which features starters, soups and salads, sandwiches, pasta and entrees, as well as an extensive wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Weekend brunch available. Closed Mon. 2736 Medina Road, Medina, 330-952-1122 $$$$ D, A, T One Red Door Decadent menu featuring gourmet pizzas, share plates such as

wings, sandwiches and bacon-wrapped roasted desserts. 215 Dover Road, dates and burgers. 49 Sugarcreek, 330-852-2993 Village Way, Hudson, 330$$$ L, D, T 342-3667 $$$$ L, D, A Platinum Dragon A great On Tap Grille & Bar Relaxed Highland Square spot atmosphere, great gyros for people-watching. and Greek food. 3263 State Menu features a variety of Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330Chinese favorites. 814 W. 922-0464; 2736 Medina Market St., Akron, 330-434Road, Medina, 330-7258108 $$ L, D, A, T 1972 $$ L, D, A, T Primo’s Deli An Akron Open Door Coffee Co. This cafe mainstay since 1979. Try is housed in the landmark their famous corned beef Saywell building, across sandwich or spicy Italian from the Hudson green. sub, and finish with a slice Coffee, smoothies, of house-made carrot pastries, music and art. cake. Closed Sun. and 164 N. Main St., Hudson, Mon. 1707 Vernon Odom 330-653-5900 $ B, L, D, T Blvd., Akron, 330-745-9056 The Overlook Grill Fine dining $$ L, D, A, T in a mansion overlooking Rasicci’s Pizza Deep-dish the Twin Lakes that’s pizza, fried chicken and often the site of weddings. jojos from owner Rick Menu features classics Rasicci. 513 E. Cuyahoga like chicken piccata and Falls Ave., Akron, 330-923Delmonico steaks. 1519 1999 $$ L, D, T Overlook Road, Kent, 330984-4730 $$$ D, A Ray’s Place Great burgers, hearty dinners and the Pad Thai Elegant restaurant, area’s largest selection of extensive menu of foreign and domestic beer traditional Thai dishes. in the bottle and on draft.

3545 Brookwall Drive, 135 Franklin Ave., Kent, Fairlawn, 330-668-9981; 330-673-2233; 25 Ghent 5657 Darrow Road, Road, Fairlawn, 330-835Hudson, 330-650-9998 $$$ 2233 $$ L, D, A, T L, D, A, T Rizzi’s Ristorante & Pizzeria Pancho & Lefty’s Popular Recipes originating from neighborhood cantina. northern Italy shine at this 3254 Kent Road, Stow, family-owned restaurant 330-686-6781 $$ L, D, A, T with fried chicken that Papa Gyros Greek Grill has garnered its own Authentic Greek fare. trademark. 2809 Copley Greek wine and beer.

Road, Copley, 330-6663939 Massillon Road, 1221, 330-668-2626 $$ Green, 330-899-0707; 4760 L, D, T Everhard Road, Canton, Rubber City’s Remarkable Coffee 330-497-1100; 320 W. State & Cafe A full espresso St., Alliance, 330-823-7773; menu, smoothies, grab 2045 Cleveland Ave. NW, and go house-made Canton, 330-456-9000; 1 N. sandwiches, soups and Hawkins Ave., Akron, 330pastries, including gluten247-2475 $$ L, D, A, T free options. Off-site Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s Classy catering available. Closed atmosphere, extensive weekends. Canal Place, wine list, fine Italian fare, Bounce Innovation Hub seafood and steaks. 1561 building, 526 S. Main St., Akron Peninsula Road, Akron, 234-901-4334 $ Akron, 330-923-7999 $$$ B, L, T L, D, A, T Rush Hour Grille American Parasson’s Good pasta. Great menu. 10735 Ravenna for family dining. 959 E. Road, Twinsburg, 330-405Waterloo Road, Akron, 4990 $$ L, D, A, T 330-724-9375; 3983 Darrow Russo’s Unique cuisine Road, Stow, 330-688-3650; featuring Cajun and Italian 364 Wooster Road N., influences. Fine dining Barberton, 330-753-2264 atmosphere. 4895 State $$ L, D, A, T Park Street Pizza Locally grown and raised ingredients are used Go to akronlife.com to view to make regular and more area restaurants & events. gluten-free pizzas, salads,

GOOD EATS UNTAPPED

[ by Aaron Fowler ]

Summer Chill Cool off on a hot day with these beers.

12-pa

As the sun heats up, beer drinkers enjoy sipping on truly refreshing brews. So sit back and chill out with these six craft beers you shouldn’t overlook this season.

MADTREE RAMBLE ON Cincinnati’s MadTree Brewing knows a thing or two about creating delicious India pale ales. Ramble On is its take on the low-cal craze. With just 4 percent alcohol by volume and 106 calories, this Citra-hopped session IPA still packs a ton of fruity goodness and a subtle hop bite. $9.99, six-pack cans

VEDETT EXTRA WHITE Those looking for a traditional Belgian witbier — move aside Blue Moon — will be thoroughly pleased with what Vedett Extra White has to offer.

With more complexity than your typical witbier, it kicks you where it counts with mouthwatering aromas and flavors of coriander and orange peel. $9.99, four-pack bottles

cuisine. 96 Barrington Town Center, Aurora, 330-562-5334 $$$ L, D, A, T Cana Valley Winery Check out this winery’s 13 varieties. Bring in your own food. 5665 Waterloo Road, Atwater, 330-596-3017 $$$$ D, A Canal Tavern of Zoar Fine casual dining in Zoar’s original tavern and inn.

Features steaks and chops, seafood and Zoar-inspired German cuisine,

ck

9 $15.9

WEIHENSTEPHANER HEFEWEIZEN If your favorite wheat beer is instead the German hefeweizen style, then the world’s oldest brewery, Weihenstephaner, has just what you need. The 2016 World Beer Cup gold medalist is filled with satisfying hints of banana, clove and bubblegum that we have all grown to love during summertime. $10.99, six-pack bottles

URBAN ARTIFACT SPYGLASS Over the years, Urban Artifact has created quite the splash for delivering fantastically original sour beers, and this offering does not disappoint. Spyglass is a quaffable session sour brewed with 50 pounds of lemon zest and 66 pounds of limes per 30-barrel batch. $10.99, sixpack cans

concentrate to craft the perfect answer to blazing June temperatures. $9.99, six-pack cans

STONE BUENAVEZA

A shandy is always the perfect choice during this season, and Narragansett Beer has liquid gold for you. Del’s Shandy takes the brewery’s famous lager and blends it with natural lemonade

Stone Brewing, known for its West Coast hoppy fan favorites, takes its stab at the Mexican lager style with this salt and lime lager. Exceptionally executed and ready for you to gulp down on a hot summer day, Buenaveza has all the taste of a Mexican lager with a nice light hoppiness to please admirers of the brewery. $15.99, 12-pack bottles

as well as draft brews and extensive wine list. Sun. brunch. Patio bar and dining along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. 8806 Towpath Road, NE, Bolivar, 330-874-4444 $$$ L, D, A, T Casa Del Ranchero Authentic Mexican. Try a 44-ounce jumbo lime margarita, arroz con pollo and flan for dessert.

Kids’ menu and vegetarian menu.

562 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton,

330-753-8494 $$ L, D, A, T Casa Del Rio Mexican dining. 839 High St., Wadsworth, 330-335-4001 $$ L, D, A, T Caston & Main Brew Yard This cozy, casual gastropub with a fireplace and two outdoor patios with fire features offers a large variety of craft beer including 32 taps, with wine, specialty cocktails and 140-plus

NARRAGANSETT DEL’S SHANDY

All are available at select Giant Eagle, Acme Fresh Market, Fishers Foods and Mustard Seed Market & Cafe locations, as well as your finer craft beer stops such as Lizardville and 101 Bottles of Beer on the Wall.

[ Aaron Fowler is a sales representative at Cavalier Distributing. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

bourbons, whiskeys and spirits including rare selections. The chefdriven menu offers house-made flatbreads, sandwiches and beer

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

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

49

GOOD EATS

Road, Peninsula, 330-9232665 $$$$ L, D, A, T Saffron Patch Fine Indian cuisine including tandoori chicken, ginger-seasoned yellow lentils and garlic naan. 1238 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-836-7777 $$$ L, D, A, T Sakura Fresh sushi served daily. Wide selection of specialty rolls. 3900 Medina Road, Akron, 330-670-0288 $$$ L, D, T Samantha’s Restaurant Canton staple known for its substantial menu featuring many varieties of eggs Benedict, like the California with spinach, asparagus, portobello mushrooms, red onion and feta. 4954 Portage St. NW, North Canton, 330-4999700 $$ B, L, D, A, W, T Sammie’s Bar and Grill Dave DeLapa’s restaurant menu features burgers, sandwiches, comfort food and appetizers. 498 South Ave., Tallmadge, 234-6788334 $$ L, D, A, T Samosky’s Homestyle Pizzeria Winner of the American Pizza Championship, Chef Jason Samosky creates unrivaled pies and calzones, like the No. 1 award-winning Philly Cheese Steak pizza. 6738 Center Road, Valley City, 330-483-2000 $$$ L, D, T Sarah’s Vineyard Sample highquality wines, appetizers and desserts in the tasting room, on the deck or in the butterfly garden. 1204 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9298057 $$ L, D, A, T Serenite Restaurant Fine French dining includes oysters, shrimp cocktail, escargot, duck confit and smoked salmon. Socially conscious mission with a staff made up of people in recovery from addiction.

538 W. Liberty St., Medina, 330-952-2611 $$$ L, D, A, T Shawarma Bros. Get a taste of authentic shawarma lamb, chicken or beef in a rice bowl or on pita bread and falafel, then finish off your meal with baklava at this affordable takeout restaurant. 1808 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234334-3996 $$ L, D, T Sisters Century House Historic building overlooks Ohio Canal. Known for twicebaked potatoes. 123 S. 50

Canal St., Canal Fulton, 330-854-9914 $$ B, L, D, T Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition. Drivein burgers, fast fare. 2781 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Road, Green, 330-896-9350 $ L, D, T Sonnets Espresso Bar & Restaurant Signature blend coffee, local craft beer, made-to-order sandwiches, salads, soups, kids’ meals and live music every weekend. Closed Sun. 117 College St., Wadsworth, 330-336-5557 $$ B, L, D, A, T Spennato’s Italian Ristorante Seafood, chicken, pasta and pizza, as well as attentive service and a casual dining atmosphere.

10446 Northfield Road, Northfield, 330-468-8688 $$$ L, D, A, T Steinly’s Down-home breakfasts are a mainstay.

235 E. Waterloo Road, Akron, 330-773-6422 $ B, L, D, T Stricklands Frozen Custard Founded in 1936. Run by the third generation of the Strickland family. 1809 Triplett Blvd., Akron; 2629 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-8498; 3465 S. Arlington Road, Green, 330-899-9477; 9070 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330626-2750 $ T Sushi Katsu Award-winning sushi spot in the Merriman Valley. 1446 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-867-2334 $$$ L, D, A, T Swensons Drive-In Voted best burger in Akron Life’s Best of the City. Signature burger is the Galley Boy. 658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-928-8515; 40 S. Hawkins Ave., Akron, 330-864-8416; 4466 Kent Road, Stow, 330-678-7775; 40 Brookmont Road, Montrose, 330-665-1858; 5815 Wales Ave., Jackson Township, 330-833-5454; 1558 N. Main St., North Canton, 330-499-9494 $ L, D, T Table Six Kitchen & Bar Innovative and shareable dishes made from scratch in a gastropub where the drinks are also held to the same high standard. Road 6113 Whipple Ave NW, North Canton, 330-3051666 $$$ L, D, W, A, T Taco Tontos Funky, college

akronlife.com | JUNE 2021

atmosphere featuring authentic Mexican cuisine made from scratch. Good selection of vegetarian dishes. 123 Franklin Ave., Kent, 330-677-0223 $$ L, D, T Taggart’s Ice Cream Established in 1926, this landmark features wrought-iron ice cream parlor chairs and highbacked booths. Try the Bittner! Homemade soups, salads and sandwiches.

Kids’ menu and vegetarian options. 1401 Fulton Road NW, Canton, 330-452-6844; 107 S. Main, Magnolia, 330866-9344 $ L, D, T Thyme2 Pub & Fine Dining Contemporary cuisine with worldly influences, served in an upscale, modern setting. 113 W. Smith Road, Medina, 330-764-4114 $$$$ L, D, A, T Tim’s Pizzeria and Pub Specialty pizza, traditional Italian dishes, subs, awardwinning wings, housemade soup and more. 2823 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-1530 $$ D, A, T Timber Lodge Steaks are handselected from the finest USDA Prime and Choice aged beef. Seafood is flown in daily to assure the peak of flavor and freshness. Prime rib is slow roasted rotisserie-style and hand-carved to your taste.

Famous for its No. 1 giant lobster tail. 2809 Pearl Road, Medina, 330-7256288 $$$ D, A, T Tip Top Restaurant & Catering Pleasant atmosphere with homestyle menu. Perfect for family dining. Curbside pickup and delivery available. 3428 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-688-3171 $$ B, L, D, 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 Road, Fairlawn, 330-835-9801 $$ L, D, A, T Tokyo Hibachi and Sushi Hibachi meals cooked at your table, entrees from the kitchen, as well as sushi and sashimi. 1132 N. Court St., Medina, 330-9522818 $$$$ L, D, T Tomaso’s Italian Villa Familyowned and operated for over 50 years. Features

classic Italian cuisine.

Pasta dinners, pizza, fortunes, calzones, salads, desserts, beer and wine.

Kids’ menu. 3271 Barber Road, Norton, 330-7456063 $$ L, D, A, T Totally Cooked To-Go Comfort foods, soups, made-toorder sandwiches and salads, and desserts. Menu changes weekly. 388 S. Main St., Akron, 330-2941102 $$ B, L, D, T Trecaso’s Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s best red sauce. Highland Square spot known for several ice cream options.

780 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-1511 $$ L, D, T Treno Ristorante Upscale dining with a focus on classic northern Italian cuisine in a former train depot along train tracks by the Cuyahoga River in downtown Kent. Coowned by Kent State University alum and British Open champion Ben Curtis. 152 Franklin Ave., Kent, 330-676-5139 $$$ L, D, A, W The Twisted Olive Casual classic Italian-American fare prepared in wood-fire ovens and on grills. Indoor and outdoor seating. 5430 Massillon Road, Green, 330-899-0550 $$$ L, D, A, T Vaccaro’s Trattoria Traditional Italian cuisine with a twist on nouveau. Famous since 1957. An Italian and Akron classic. 1000 Ghent Road, Akron, 330-666-6158; Lunch Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Dinner Mon.-Sat. 5-10 p.m. $$$ L, D, A, T Valley Cafe Owned by a fivestar gourmet chef. Features friendly service, dishes made from scratch and famous cabbage soup.

1212 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-865-0101; 101 High St., Wadsworth, 330-331-7555 $ B, L, D (Wadsworth only), T The Valley Inn This one-time country roadhouse has been transformed into a family hot spot. The prime rib is gigantic. 15004 Portage St., Doylestown, 330-658-9859 $$$ L, D, A, T Vasili’s Greek Cuisine A welcome addition to Akron’s restaurant scene, Vasili’s provides big flavors and huge portions at a reasonable price with

excellent customer service.

The moussaka is excellent, and the baklava is decadent. 1702 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-864-0722 $$ L, D, T Village Inn Chicken Formerly Milich’s Village Inn, now under new ownership with the same great fried chicken, hot sauce and coleslaw recipes. 4444 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Barberton, 330-825-4553 $$ L, D, T Vinifera Wine-to-Whiskey Bar Extensive beverage list with an enomatic wine dispenser system of more than 60 wine selections, more than 80 whiskey and bourbon options and a food menu. 3236 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 234571-0233 $$$ D, A, T Virtues Signature foods such as a tempura calamari appetizer. Specialty pizzas, filet mignon and other gourmet items with high nutritional values on Summa Health System Akron Campus. 525 E. Market St., Akron, 330-3757444 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, V Waterloo Restaurant Eclectic menu. Famous for the Waterloo Big Apple and French onion soup. 423 E. Waterloo Road, Akron, 330773-5158 $$ B, L, D, T Water Main Grille Sandwiches, soups and dinner platters.

339 Main St., Wadsworth, 330-331-7757 $$ L, D, T The West Side Bakery Specialties include cakes, pastries and cookies.

Breakfast items include scones, muffins and yogurt parfaits. All sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups are made from scratch.

2303 W. Market St., Akron, 330-836-4101 $ B, L, T Whitehouse Chicken A Barberton tradition.

180 Wooster Road N., Barberton, 330-745-0449; 4195 Massillon Road, Uniontown, 330-896-5644; 199 Great Oaks Trail, Wadsworth, 330-335-6000 $$ L, D, T Whitey’s Booze N’ Burgers Famous chili, generous portions and live entertainment on the weekends. 3600 Brecksville Road, Richfield, 330-6593600 $$ D, A No credit cards Please send any changes or corrections to kpetryszyn@ bakermediagroup.com.

PARTING SHOT

[ by Wyat t Loy, photo cour tesy of Summit Memory/Akron-Summit County Public Library ]

“

Sky Lift Akron, circa 1931

”

Akron was the center of blimp construction in the U.S. more than a century ago, but the Blimp City continues to innovate at the Akron Airdock. The building is a marvel: After completion in 1929, it became the largest building without internal supports at 1,175 feet long. It’s so cavernous that some residents still claim, on a humid day with a sudden temperature drop, clouds can form inside and pour down rain. In 1931, it set another bar — it became home to the first rigid lighterthan-air airship built in Ohio: the pictured U.S.S. Akron used by the Navy. This March, the airdock was sold to Lockheed Martin and subleased to the California company Lighter Than Air. It has been working with University of Akron students to research unmanned aircraft systems and electric-powered airships that will reduce emissions, find new solutions to delivering aid and continue the airdock’s legacy as a home of cutting-edge airship technology.

JUNE 2021 | akronlife.com

51

Why limit happy to just one hour?

US ALL D PL

AY

Happy Hour 4PM - 6P

MONDAY - FRIDAY featuring

S

M

UN

DA Y

-CHILLED-

BLUE POINT OYSTERS 1.5 EA SHRIMP COCKTAIL 2 EA

- H O T-

S T E A M E D B L U E H I L L B AY M U S S E L S 7 OYSTERS ROCKEFELLER 6.5

- $ 6 C L A S S I C C O C K TA I L S “Kingfish is the King of Happy Hour.”

- AKRON BEACON JOURNAL

K I N G F I S H A K RO N . C O M | 1 1 5 M O N T RO S E W E S T AV E | 3 3 0 . 7 7 7 . 2 0 0 5 | H R C L E V E L A N D . C O M