May 2011

Rubber City’s ties to rubbers & 8 other fun facts

volume 9 / issue 5

may 201 1

IS IT ART? The Writing on the Wall: It’s controversial. It’s illegal. But ...

+

Smart majors for NEO ... p52 Charlie Sheen … is a Zips fan #p8akronlfe

05 >

0

7447 0 5 7 8 71 formerly

$3.95

I’ll take a 7½ stiletto in dark chocolate p67 0

may 2011 / vol. 9 / issue 5

paGEs start here

On The Cover / photo by Shane Wynn

40 / The Writing on the Wall / Urban street art is as diverse as the people creating it — and (slowly) gaining acceptance as a legit art form.

40

Features

48

/ 9 Things (Most) Locals Don’t Know About Akron / Test your Akron know-it-all knowledge — and learn some fun facts sure to impress at the next family gathering or Friday Happy Hour.

akronlife

may 2011

pages

8

46 uncorked

radar

14 agenda

Special Sections

52 Career Track Fast Track These “high demand” fields of study offer tremendous potential for students, lending themselves to a variety of career paths right here in Northeast Ohio.

60 Life@50+ How can “Sandwich Boomers” — those caring for aging parents while raising their own children — still have a life of their own?

63 Healthy Tip How can you recognize a medical emergency?

Departments

64 Let the Fun Begin!

20 things to do when you visit Ohio Amish Country

6

/ Mail Bonding

7

/ From the Editor

8

/ Radar (Seen + Heard)

14

/ The Interview Christina Babich is a classical cellist who’s comfortable playing with the Akron Symphony … or Tommy Lee.

14 / Agenda 10

/ Speak Easy

17 Entertainment listings/a calendar of featured events

12

/ See Ben Date: One Man’s Dating Diary

29 Flash: Taste of Vintage, Akron Zoo Snow Bowl 2011, Valentine’s Ball

We resume Ben’s date with Theresa, already in progress. Ben has just returned to their table to find “Muscle Man” and Theresa flirting … again.

30 Museum & Gallery Guide

67 / Good Eats

(notable food & drink) 67 The Mad Platter: Stilettos are only good for eating.

69 Restaurant Listings 70 Small Bite: Deli Dilemma 72 Uncorked: A to Z Pinot Noir Oregon and Pinot Gris Oregon 73 Small Bite: Catch a free trolley ride to lunch.

74 / Parting Shot

www.akronlife.com

5

mail bonding Music to Die For Last evening, my 8-year-old son was strolling through his iTunes song list, pushing my speakers to their limits, and the song, “Just No Getting Over You” by David Guetta started playing. As I danced around the dining room getting ready for dinner, I thought, “This would be another great Down song for my funeral!” &Derby COFFEE — and proceeded GROUNDS ZERO to picture everyone shawn porter dancing around to my + crazy playlist of songs.

Then, not five minutes later, I was flipping through my March issue of akronlife and came to David Ritchey’s article, “Swan Song.”

I just about fell over! I’ve had this morbid fantasy of my funeral, should I die young, and how I would NOT want it to be a traditional affair in an odd red and pink parlor somewhere with super depressing hymns, but instead, a fantastic party outside — perhaps a picnic. The music is always the main event and my playlist is made up of ridiculous pop songs from the mid-’80s to today (with multiple songs from both Duran Duran and Madonna). I must say, it’s refreshing to know that I’m not alone with my “list.” Thank you, David. That was a fun one. inside Hepburn’s closet / dating misadventures / music to die for

volume 9 / issue 3

march 201 1

BAD-ASS ALTER EGOS, HIGH-SPEED HIJINKS AND THE OCCASIONAL BLACK EYE

GUIDE TO CAFFEINE + CULTURE

fighting his way to a world title?

Q

Q

PO UIF MBNC

0

7447 0 5 7 8 71

0

03 >

SVTU CFMU UIF OFX DPPM

Q UPQ EFOUJTUT

formerly

Dawn Gainer Akron

Articles with ‘Teeth’ I live in a lifecare facility in Arizona, so you know I’m really a senior citizen. I’ve read akronlife magazine for over a year now (I was born and raised in Akron on North Hill). Your magazine wasn’t of much interest to me as it concentrated on the events pertinent to people who had gone to college, had ideal jobs and belonged to organizations where they could meet and socialize with people of the same background.

Now, after receiving your January issue, I found myself greedily reading some of the pertinent issues of our society, i.e. Deadly Bullying. I hope akronlife continues to direct interest into the lives of “other” people. I had a good life in Akron, but living there in the 6

akronlife

Depression and being from a family of 11, my background is rather obscure to readers of your magazine. Akron is a melting pot of nationalities and backgrounds. Let’s hear more about these people.

Alice Knipe Sun City, AZ From the Editor: Thank you Alice — for taking the time to handwrite us a letter and for noticing the changes in the magazine. We’re working hard to make akronlife a must-read publication for Greater Akronites, and your letter helps let us know that we’re on the right track!

We’ve been enjoying your magazine, and your feature articles are exciting and catching the eyes of all who live in Akron (and other cities and states); we’ve been sending copies to our sons in the USAF stationed in New Jersey and Spain at their request. Good job on the article on the young boxer, Shawn Porter [The Interview, March 2011] and the Rubber City Rollergirls [March 2011] — we wouldn’t have known any of that, and they’re right here in our city.

Lawrence and Cynthia Nixon Akron

Going Green: A Practical Guide I live with this on daily basis and yet I felt Heather Hunter’s spin on the material was refreshing [Go (Light) Green, April 2011].

If only all Akronites would read the story, my job would be much easier! Your once-ayear “green” issue goes a long way in helping our social change efforts — so necessary to meeting carbon footprint goals through the city’s Greenprint for Akron for government AND the community-at-large. In fact, our taskforce for community outreach is just beginning to figure out how to pursue a low carbon diet for the whole community to lose 500 pounds of greenhouse gases. Good job!

Paula Davis President/CEO, Keep Akron Beautiful Director, Greenprint for Akron Akron

may 2011

FROM THE WEB On The March Issue’s “Down & Derby” Just saw the cover of the newest issue of akronlife and couldn’t believe it! Krakatoa of the Rubber City Rollergirls on the COVER? It’s about time!

— Mad Dog Madrin Wicked awesome cover!

— Kerri Ehlers akronlife: You did an AMAZING job on the RCRG article! The pictures are amazing and the writing couldn’t have been better! Thank you so much for having us! You truly captured our image well. :o)

— Jennifer Doles, Dead Eye HuntHer #682

Corrections The phone number for Cool Beans Café (www.coolbeansmedina.com) was listed incorrectly in our March article, “Coffee Grounds Zero.” The correct number is 330-723-7174. Stop in to say “hi” to new owner Laura Parnell — and to buy something!

In the March issue, Top Dentists 2011, pg. 56, the business information for Top Dentist Mark A. Iati provided to akronlife from topDentists, LLC was incorrect and should have read, “Stow Dental Group,” rather than “Show Dental Group.”

Comments?

Got something to say about an article you read in akronlife? Send comments to: akronlife, 90 South Maple St., Akron, OH 44302 and please include your name and address. Or, e-mail editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com.

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

from the editor

Footnotes

Random facts, useless tidbits and silly stats behind this issue

street smaRT

>> 1 near arrest. That’d be our graphic designer Will Teckmyer, who was taking photos of graffiti along railroad tracks in East Akron for our cover story, “The Writing on the Wall”

>>

While painting a mural on the side of a brick building, artist Steve Ehret often found himself face-to-face with the law — since police officers would occasionally stop by to shoot the breeze before heading to the cop bar across the street. “I worked in the daytime always,” says Ehret, 25. “If you act like you’re supposed to be there, it’s unlikely anyone will question it.”

Ehret would know. He began painting and drawing in grade school, honing his skills through the years by practicing in “places that were abandoned, falling over and forgotten by the everyday public. Of course, I was never asked to paint these places, but no one seemed to care much,” he says.

Perhaps the reason was that his work was perceived not as graffiti, but as art. Which was the case with the unsanctioned mural — a phantasmal otherworld featuring both playful and malevolent alien creatures — that Ehret and friend Ron Copeland painted in downtown Canton. “The wall was old, ugly and boring — so we decided it would be a good plan to make it pretty. I tried my hardest to give my hometown something they could be proud of. A new landmark,” says Ehret, who uses his real name on everything he paints — whether gallery work or street art. “We figured it would be better to beg for forgiveness than ask permission.”

Turns out, no forgiveness was necessary. “The Chamber and the City of Canton have embraced the Canton Arts District and the area around it. I think we all expect some ‘spontaneous creativity,’ ” says Robb Hankins, CEO and president of ArtsinStark, about Ehret’s mural, adding that, “technically, there is an Architectural Review Board that people have to go through for any attached signs, facades or permanently installed pieces of artwork.”

Ehret says he’s thankful that Canton has been so open-minded about his mural, which is still a work in progress since he’s “rarely satisfied with anything.” (He plans to add more to the mural this summer — “maybe an egg or two.”)

During the making of this issue, it became clear that the lines are blurring regarding just who is painting the town these days — that a lot of self-proclaimed street artists run an alias to their alias to do graffiti, that both graffiti and street artists are often part of the art world under their real name and that some artists don’t use an alias ever, even if they do, on occasion, paint public property.

So which of these works are art? Those lines are also blurring. While there’s consensus that “tagging” (writing an alias everywhere and anywhere) isn’t, there is a general “vibe” in some places that if it’s an intentional piece of artwork like Ehret’s …

Making that subjective determination puts me in mind of what Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart once famously said (about obscenity): “I know it when I see it.”

on pg. 40, when he was approached by the trainmaster.

“He told me he should call the police because I could be one of those ‘kids’ who come down here to spray paint,” says Will. “He also insinuated that I could be a terrorist!”

After much convincing (and proving he was spray-can free), Will was escorted off the premises — but still had his freedom.

>> [pin drop]

what we heard in response to our request for a comment from the University of Akron regarding Charlie Sheen coming out as a Zips basketball fan. Coach Dambrot chose to “respectfully pass” on the opportunity. See more on Sheen and other local wackiness in “Radar” on pg. 8.

>> 5 inches

the maximum manageable heel height for a sober, experienced stiletto wearer (as computed by a physics lecturer in England). Bev Shaffer expounds on how these shoes weren’t made for walking (but can be tasty treats) in “Open Mouth, Insert Foot” on pg. 67.

>> $48,000 average annual salary earned in Northeast Ohio’s bioscience sector. Manufacturing (wrongly labeled a “dying” industry) is just one of the high-demand fields expected to play a major role in Northeast Ohio’s economic future and featured in “Career Track Fast Track” on pg. 52.

>> 5 hours

amount of time writer Karen Edwards spent driving around Akron with local history buff Larry Pentecost.

“Larry was great,” says Edwards, “but for five hours, we drove around Akron in the rain in his little car — and I couldn’t smoke.” But she learned a lot, enough to write “9 Things (Most) Locals Don’t Know About Akron” on pg. 48.

>> 15,000

the most people cellist Christina Babich has played in front of at one time. (It was at Quicken Loans Arena, while touring with Trans-Siberian Orchestra). Learn more about this cellist extraordinaire/occasional head-banger in “The Interview” on pg. 14.

>> 156

approximate number of times Abby Cymerman’s husband rolled his eyes during a ghost hunt in Hartville.

The same seems to hold true for art.

Though her hubby might disagree, Abby believes they encountered the paranormal and lived to write about it, in

Georgina K. Carson, Editor gcarson@bakermediagroup.com

“Meeting My Evil Twin” on pg. 10.

www.akronlife.com

7

may 2011 / vol. 9 / issue 5

There are more chickens than people in the world.

RaDaR seen+heard

“I might come to like [Governor] John Kasich someday, but probably for the wrong reason. The way he’s been characterized by the media as kind of a crazy, wild guy — he actually makes me look like a wallflower.”

— Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic, at his recent State of the City address

City Watch

by Rodney Wilson

1. Ohio governor John Kasich’s approval rating sunk to 40 percent in March, the state’s lowest initial rat-

ing in 28 years. Taking a page from Charlie Sheen’s book, Kasich launched a Twitter-based campaign of self-affirming nonsense to regain popularity. #winning

2. Melting snow, rainfall cause major flooding of Akron’s Big Sioux River. Akron zoo-

Fashion Week Cleveland (the first week in May)

keepers spotted at local lumberyard declined to comment, saying, “Ark? What ark?”

the nation’s third largest fashion week after New York and Los Angeles.

28,740

the number of potholes filled so far this year (as of late March) by Akron public work crews — with a total cost to the city of

$ 295,507 NEED YOUR USELESS KNOWLEDGE 8

akronlife

3. An Akron postal carrier was indicted on charges of stealing over $180 in gift cards from letters. “Neither snow, nor rain, nor — whoa, is that an O’Charley’s gift card?!”

4. Following a nasty winter, costly Ohio potholes gained media exposure in March. Local star “Large Pot Hole in Left Lane on Route 8,” humbly deflected attention, saying, “It’s nice to be noticed but, at the end of the day, it’s just about doing my job as well as I can.”

5. Charlie Sheen picked the University of Akron Zips for his NCAA bracket. The team’s loss prompted scores of journalists and bloggers to point out that Sheen wasn’t “winning” — but when scores of people talk about a publicity hound, can it be considered anything but? #tigerblood

Got some random (local) fun facts? Heard a rumor? Know about something that belongs on this page?

Contact akronlife editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com. may 2011

Mercedes-Benz of Akron Our building has changed.

Our commitment to our customers hasn’t.

Come visit our new state-of-the-art facility.

Mercedes-Benz of Akron is pleased to announce the completion of their redesigned facility, home to new and Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. With advanced diagnostic equipment and Mercedes-Benz Roadside Assistance,* our redesigned facility offers everything you need to take care of your vehicle. MBUSA.com

Ganley Akron, Inc. 1361 E. Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44305 330-733-7511 Open 24/7 at: www.ganleymercedesbenz.com

Come by and find out why we are the fastest growing Mercedes-Benz dealership in Ohio! * based on new Mercedes-Benz sales year January-September.

speak easy

by Abby Cymerman

Meeting My Evil Twin

/ Sure, we were on a ghost hunt, but who really thought we’d encounter the paranormal? /

>> I have a confession to make: I have an evil twin.

Yep, just like in soap operas. There’s always a good twin, and then there’s the evil one who interferes in the good twin’s life.

Long ago, my parents and I recognized the existence of my doppelganger, Amy — I did receive her mail, after all — and, over the years, her presence has become a running joke in my family.

Well, this weekend, I met her.

My husband and I attended a ghost hunt sponsored by Spiritual Insight Ghost Hunting Team of Ohio (S.I.G.H.T.). The hunt was at Quail Hollow Manor, a beautiful, 40-room estate set on the rolling hills of Hartville’s Quail Hollow State Park.

Now, I should explain: This was our first time attending one of these things. My husband is the family skeptic, and I tend to be more open to things of the supernatural realm, but we figured it was a bucket list item: Hunted for ghosts? Check.

About 30 participants met in the manor’s library. Some were newbies, others were wideeyed fans of TV’s ghost-hunting shows and others were hard-core hunters — with fullspectrum cameras, infrared flashlights and other paranormal paraphernalia.

The three-hour program began with a lecture by a local author who says ghosts are people too, just forms of energy, and we shouldn’t be fearful of them but, instead, communicate in a helpful and compassionate way.

OK, I get that. I glance at my husband, who looks at me and rolls his eyes.

After a demonstration of high-tech ways to communicate with ghosts (using electromagnetic field readers, radios that sweep the AM/FM bands to capture voices a.k.a. ghost boxes, and tape recorders to save these conversations for future study), as well as old-school techniques (like dowsing rods), we took a 10-minute break.

The men wandered the halls, and the women, of course, headed for the restroom.

Waiting in line, I had the oddest feeling, like someone running their fingers through the back of my hair. It felt cold and electric — not threatening, just … interested. And then it was my turn to go, so I did.

Back in the library, I told my husband, and he said it was a draft from an old window.

(Gotta love this man, my Voice of Reason.)

After the break, one of S.I.G.H.T’s leaders — a woman who’s a psychic — explained that a spirit’s touch is cold and electric. My husband and I exchanged looks. I told the woman about my experience, and she said a spirit may have been trying to communicate with me.

10

akronlife

may 2011

Awesome.

Next, we were set free in the manor.

Normally, manor tours are limited to certain areas, but during the hunt, we had permission to roam. From the attic to the basement, beyond the velvet ropes, behind closed doors, inside hidden rooms. That, in itself, made it a very cool experience.

I glance at my husband, who looks at me and rolls his eyes.

During our exploration of the nursery, our psychic struck up a conversation with the spirit of the children’s mother. A woman who had once thrown lavish dinner parties, she seemed to enjoy our company so we sat in a circle and chatted with her about gardening, one of her pastimes.

As the evening ended, I asked the psychic if she could communicate with the spirit who had touched me. So we crowded into the tiny one-stall powder room, where our psychic welcomed the spirit. A faint “Hello” echoed from the ghost box. She asked the spirit’s name, and the reply … “Amy.” Met my evil twin?

Check.

/ Writer Abby Cymerman is assistant editor of akronlife.

Comments?

E-mail them to editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com.

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Don Baker Jr.

EXPERIENCE RELIEF

dbakerjr@bakermediagroup.com

Associate Publisher Colin Baker cbaker@bakermediagroup.com

Creative Director Kathy Baker Moorhouse kmoorhouse@bakermediagroup.com

New Eco-friendly office in Stow!

Editor Georgina K. Carson gcarson@bakermediagroup.com

Assistant Editor Abby Cymerman acymerman@bakermediagroup.com

Contributing Writers Ben DiCola Bev Shaffer Karen Edwards Rob Hawk Alicia Blessing Rodney Wilson Carol Steffey

Ohio Foot & Ankle is a full-service podiatric office and corporation that strives for excellence in patient care and patient satisfaction.

We specialize in reconstructive, diabetic and traumatic surgery of the foot and ankle along with treatment of common and uncommon lower extremity ailments.

Graphic Designer William Teckmyer III wteckmyer@bakermediagroup.com

Photographers Andy Prisbylla Shane Wynn

STOW OFFICE

Dr. Aaron J. Chokan DPM, FACFAS, FAPWCA

3226 Kent Road, Stow 44224 p:330-929-3331 f:330-929-5408

www.ohiofac.com

swynn@bakermediagroup.com

Bookkeeper Debbie Jacobs Sales sales@bakermediagroup.com

Colin Baker Ben DiCola Carol Null Tim O’Connell Circulation

jburkhart@bakermediagroup.com

Jessica Burkhart 330-253-0056 ext. 112

May 2011, Volume 9, Issue 5 (ISSN No. 74470 57871) akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 90 S. Maple St., Akron, Ohio 44302-1629. Copyright 2011 © by Baker Media Group, LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by an addressed envelope and sufficient postage.

Baker Media Group, LLC and akronlife accept no responsibility for unsolicited material. Subscription rates: Continental U.S., One year —19.95, Two years —34.95. Call for Alaska, Hawaii or international rates. Single issues available by calling the circulation department. $3.95 each plus $3.50 shipping & handling.

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

An invitation to tranquility www.ricesnursery.com Design/Build Landscapes • Landscape Maintenance 330-499-9857 Garden Center 330-499-9622 1651 55th Street NE, Canton www.akronlife.com

11

ongoing saga

by Ben DiCola and illustration by Chad O’Malley

See Ben Date

/ One man’s dating diary /

>>Last month, Ben went on a date with “Theresa,” who he thought could be his dream girl — until their first date began resembling a nightmare.

>> Not long after Theresa explained

how she hated when men flirted with other women right in front of her, she did that very thing. In fact, when Ben returned from the dance floor, the “Muscle Man” she’d been chatting up earlier was standing at their table talking to Theresa … again! Let’s resume this date already in progress …

She hung up on me.

“Oh, he was just being friendly,” she told me after he finally left. Uh-huh. I laughed and shrugged it off.

When I drove her home, she had me park at the mouth of the drive and said she’d walk to her condo unit. So, neither at the beginning of the date nor at the end did I get a chance to see where she actually lived.

If she was uncomfortable about me seeing her place, maybe she shouldn’t have gone out with me yet. Maybe we needed another meeting for coffee before an evening out. I would’ve understood. Now that I mention it, I had also asked where her office was located. She said it was close to home; again, no details. Was she being secretive? Guarded?

Rather than question her, I chose again to let things slide. This was only the second time we’d been out, and I didn’t want to jeopardize a nice (albeit weird) evening by coming across as paranoid.

But I did have some questions and figured I could ask them on our next date, if the situation presented itself.

12

akronlife

the next day and left a message saying I’d go alone, since she didn’t seem comfortable attending. She then called me back and asked why I had a change of heart. Why? Because it was clear she didn’t want to go. I also told her that I understood. She then said she knew little about baseball, wouldn’t recognize players’ names and that the distance was too far and the day too long. I accepted her explanation and said no problem. But instead of dropping it, she went full on into a rant ...

Speaking of our next date … I’d been planning for some time on attending a wintertime baseball carnival in Pittsburgh, which was the following weekend. I knew Theresa wasn’t a huge sports fan, but at the same time, if I like someone, my rule of thumb is to at least ask her to attend something with me. No harm in asking, or so I thought.

And if Theresa chose not to go with me, I’d go alone and we could do something together later that week.

So I called and invited her. It ran that Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. By no means did I intend for us to stay there the entire 10 hours; I’ve never stayed that long even when attending it alone.

She agreed to go, but reluctantly. After giving it some thought, I called her back

may 2011

“You ask the people at the dating service you’re using if this is normal,” she said.

“Ask them if it’s normal for a man to take a woman across state lines that he’s only been out with twice. And here’s what I’m going to do,” she continued.

“There’s a kitchen design show coming up in a few weeks. I’m going to take you to that for six hours and see how you like doing that.”

I jumped in, asking if this was some sort of childish contest she was playing. I said, “Look, if you don’t want to go with me, fine. I accept your decision.” But she went right back into her rant about taking me to something she assumed I’d dislike. Finally, I told her I wasn’t engaging in a contest and that I had other things to do.

She hung up on me.

This was a 51-year-old woman acting like she was 14. What she didn’t realize was that I would’ve attended a kitchen design show with her, and actually have gone to them before. But she

didn’t know me long enough to find that out.

However, I won’t attend anything with anyone who’s seeking to “even the score.”

Theresa had told me previously that she had long been controlled by the men she dated.

One man, she said, would take her to lingerie stores and select what he wanted to see her wear. He’d even go into the dressing room with her while she put it on. Was this game of hers with me her way of getting back at men like him?

In the weeks since, I believe this outrage wasn’t really directed at me. The experience obviously touched a nerve from something in her past and triggered a strange overreaction. The scary part, for men and women, is that we don’t really know the degree to which someone has been scorned. And as we all know, “Hell hath no fury …”

F

I

N

E

J

E

W

E

L

R Y

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

I also learned that guys (yes, me too) are attracted to the “fancy packages” like Theresa, but the chemistry isn’t worth the level of craziness. I do think, deep down, she’s a nice girl — but she’s like so many women out there: They’ve been screwed over so many times by men that they seem revengeful, looking to get even and vowing those things will never happen to them again. And then they date me.

But these women shouldn’t even be dating — at least not until they work through those feelings.

I haven’t seen or spoken to Theresa since her meltdown. It’s probably best I don’t.

/ Writer Ben DiCola is an account representative at Baker Media Group and a freelance writer.

Coming next month: An acquaintance contacts Ben about how she read his article in akronlife — and feels his pain. Guess what happened next?

Comments?

E-mail them to editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com.

www.akronlife.com

13

the interview

by Georgina K. Carson and photo by Shane Wynn

Christina Babich / Cellist Extraordinaire / Occasional Head-Banger /

She may have only been 4, but Christina Babich >> wasn’t happy with a recent turn her life had taken.

[Air violin plays.]

So your family is also musically inclined?

(Somewhat ironically?) the instrument of her unhappiness just happened to be … the violin.

CB: Yes. My older sister, Julie, plays violin, viola and piano. Both my younger sisters are, too: Caren plays violin, and Joanna sings and plays the piano. Family get-togethers, especially at the holidays, are very musical!

“My mom started me on it because my older sister played, but I refused to practice. My parents did everything to try to get me to do it,” says Babich, who finally convinced them to let her quit after a semester. For the next three years, she “begged to play the cello.”

When her parents finally let her try it, she took to it instantly — making up for lost time by taking lessons through the Suzuki method and learning to play by ear practicing in church with the band. Once in high school, she began playing at weddings and around the area as part of the Northern Ohio Cello Choir.

With a master’s from The Cleveland Institute of Music and a doctorate in early music from Case, Babich has performed with such groups as the Akron Symphony, Cleveland Chamber Symphony and Seattle Baroque Orchestra and everywhere from Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Finland, Poland and Ecuador. These days, when she’s not busy being a homemaker and mom to 2-year-old Nolan and 2-month-old Rachael, Babich splits her time between various performing and teaching positions — running Camerata Musical Arts in West Akron (with her musically inclined sisters) and teaching cello at The University of Akron.

And the stories she could tell …

Babich has been playing with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra for about 10 years now and also has performed with such musicians as Rod Stewart, Josh Groban, Olivia Newton-John, Barry Manilow, Tommy Lee and Kanye West — perfecting her craft, along with her head-banging skills.

14

akronlife

may 2011

How do you explain your family’s fascination with music?

CB: My mom is a pianist and now a general music teacher for the Akron Public Schools.

She saw the Phil Donahue show where 2- and 3-year-old children were playing Suzuki-method violin. It impressed her, and though we all sang at an early age, my parents wanted us to play instruments, too.

What would surprise people about you?

CB: I played bass drum in my high school marching band for one season.

Of the celebrity musicians you’ve played with, who has been your favorite?

CB: Dave Stewart. I got to fly to California to perform on TV with various celebrities.

I recorded cello parts for an album for him, including ‘Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This),’ which he made famous with Annie Lennox when they were the Eurythmics.

It was also fantastic fun to be part of that scene, eating dinner in his home with his family and meeting some of the great musicians he has worked with. I was even there when he was on a call with Bono on speakerphone — that doesn’t happen every day to a classical musician!

What other instrument would you like to play?

CB: I also play the viola da gamba, but if I had a million free hours, I’d learn the theorbo (long necked lute). It’s so incredibly

beautiful. I’d also love to play the banjo. My family formed a bluegrass band, and I play ‘bass’ on the cello, but the banjo would be so fun!

Mozart Requiem MAY 14, 2011 I 8 PM

Did Kanye West ever interrupt you and claim that someone else was a better cellist than you?

CB: He never dared! Seriously though, his concert was one of the only times I’ve had to stand up and dance while playing the cello — for the entire concert!

How does one dance with a cello?

CB: It’s difficult! Hopefully the microphones weren’t turned up because it’s very hard to play in tune when you’re also trying not to drop your instrument! I’m sure it looked ridiculous. I can’t even dance without trying to hold my cello!

Did you ever consider taking up a more portable instrument, like the flute?

E.J. Thomas Hall, The University of Akron

CLASSIC

7

PÄRT Cantus in Memory of Benjamin Britten

VAUGHAN WILLIAMS MOZART Fantasia on a theme Requiem

by Thomas Tallis

David Lockington, guest conductor

Akron Symphony Chorus, Maria Sensi Sellner, director Amelia D’Arcy, soprano Ivy Walz, alto Robert Frankenberry, tenor

Brian Keith Johnson,

Guest Artist Sponsor:

Previews from the Podium Sponsor: Media Partners:

bass

T I C K E T S

CB: No! Never! My cello case has wheels, which is plenty portable.

Did Tommy Lee ever greet you with a lick to the face? Or ask you to marry him?

CB: No, but I did take pictures of him while I was backstage waiting to go on and got in serious trouble for it! I had to erase the pictures from my camera before going home!

How do you feel about your rock-star-byaffiliation status?

CB: I’m generally not a rock star by day — I mostly play classical cello. But I’ve let my hair down, so to speak, by playing with such a great variety of groups. Head-banging for years while playing with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra got me started, and rock and pop concerts are fun diversions. I love playing a wide variety of musical styles. When I’m behind my cello, I’m in the zone and can let loose at the drop of a hat. It’s like having an alter ego/stage self.

FROM $20 – $40*

CHRISTOPHER WILKINS, MUSIC DIRECTOR

akronsymphony.org

* discounts available for seniors, students, & groups

CALL 330.535.8131 TO ORDER

D]l Mk Hjgl][l Qgmj @ge] gj :mkaf]kk

What do you consider your greatest achievement so far?

CB: Besides marrying my amazing husband, Ben, I would say giving birth at home — on purpose!

What’s your guilty pleasure?

CB: Judge Judy and bacon — I can’t get enough of either one.

Comments? E-mail them to editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com.

800-860-7413 www.securitec1.com Locally Owned & Operated Since 1990 www.akronlife.com

15

may 2011 / vol. 9 / issue 5

The longest one-syllable word in the English language is “screeched.”

AGENDA the essential social digest

5/15 VINO & V INYASA THE WINERY AT WOLF C REEK. $20. P 22

5/7 ACCESS KICK UP YOUR HEELS 5K & STILETTO SPRINT P 19

THROUGH 6/5 BEYOND N EWSPRINT, S UMMIT ARTSPACE .

FREE . P 17

5/7 AND 5/8 20 TH ANNUAL I NTERNATIONAL B ATTLE OF M AGICIANS

5/5 J AGERMEISTER COUNTRY TOUR FEATURING D IERKS B ENTLEY M ULTIPLE G RAMMY NOMINEE AND CHART- TOPPING COUNTRY MUSIC STAR D IERKS B ENTLEY HEADLINES . W ITH SPECIAL GUESTS J OSH T HOMPSON , DUO M ISS W ILLIE B ROWN AND A LOCAL J AGERMEISTER- SPONSORED COUNTRY ACT . A KRON C IVIC T HEATER, 182 S. M AIN S T ., A KRON. 7 P.M. $35.50.

330-253-2488

J AY M ATTIOLI & C O. WILL PERFORM MIND - BOGGLING ILLUSIONS , AS SEEN ON “A MERICA’S G OT TALENT.” A LSO SEE PERFORMANCES FROM M ARK K ORNHAUSER, CHARLIE F RYE & C O., M IKE M ICHAELS, JAY S TERLING AND THE BATTLE AWARD WINNER. C ANTON PALACE

T HEATRE, 605 M ARKET AVE. N, C ANTON . SAT., 8 P.M .; S UN., 2 P. M. $25.

330-454-8172

5/22 T HREE WATERFALLS H IKE, PENINSULA . FREE . P 25 THROUGH 5/15 “T HE N ERD” WEATHERVANE P LAYHOUSE. $21.

P 17 16

akronlife

5/14 P ORTAGE L AKES B OATING & F ISHING SWAP MEET NEW AND USED BOAT DISPLAYS, FISHING ITEMS AND DEMONSTRATIONS . P ROCEEDS BENEFIT THE F RANKLIN PARK C IVIC C ENTER/TUDOR HOUSE. PORTAGE

may 2011

L AKES STATE PARK AND THE TUDOR HOUSE, 5031 MANCHESTER RD., A KRON . 8 A. M .-4 P. M . FREE .

330-882-4324

An ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain.

Throughout May Junior Achievement of North Central Ohio’s I Love the ‘80s Bowl-a-Thon Raise funds for local JA educational programs. Teams must include five bowlers. Stonehedge Lanes, 5/6, 5/14 and 5/21; Wayne Lanes, 5/7; Bill White’s Akron Lanes, 5/13; Kent Lanes 11th Frame, 5/20; Victory Lanes, 5/20; Bluefusion Entertainment, 5/26; and Medina Lanes, 5/27. Registration is $10 per person or $50 per team.

330-434-1875 Through 5/7 Clean Up Akron Week Keep Akron Beautiful needs volunteers. All will receive trash and recycle bags, gloves, hand sanitizer and free trash removal. The first 1,000 volunteers are invited to the Akron Zoo for a free volunteer appreciation picnic on 5/7. Keep Akron Beautiful, 850 E. Market St., Akron. www.keepakronbeautiful.org Through 5/14 EARTH & SKY Nearly 20 years after she left her art studio (on the top floor of Fairhill Psychiatric Hospital’s high-security lockup ward for women in Cleveland), renowned artist, teacher and author Donna Drozda is returning to her hometown to showcase a new gallery exhibition. John F. Seiberling Gallery, 1403 W. Hines Hill Rd., within the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park offices, Peninsula. 330-657-2909 Through 5/14 Something to Crow About Don Drumm Studios and Gallery features works by award-winning artist Joan Colbert as part of its Annual Spring Show. One of Akron’s premier artists, Colbert describes her style as “abstract realism,” working in mixed media with an emphasis on printmaking, painting and collage. Don Drumm Studios and Gallery, 437 Crouse St., Akron. Gallery hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www.drummstudios.com

Through 5/22 “Color in Freedom: Journey along the Underground Railroad” Fifty paintings, etchings and drawings by Joseph Holston that capture the struggle for freedom. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tues.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org Through 5/22 “Some Enchanted Evening – The Songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein” This collection of classic showstoppers gives five performers the chance to strut their stuff. Actors’ Summit, 103 High St., Sixth Floor, Akron. $17-$30. 330-374-7568 Through 5/22 Miss Massillonian Artifacts representing the Washington High School yearbook honor, 1938 to the present: dresses, photographs, yearbooks and more. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Free. 330-873-3408 Through 5/31 Registration for Ronald McDonald House Charity Golf Classic Presented annually by the Junior Women’s Civic Club. Registration ends 5/31; event held 6/27 at Portage Country Club. Included in the cost: 18 holes of golf, golf cart, lunch, dinner, drink tickets, golfer gift and recognition in program. Three levels of golf packages are available. Contact Nora Houser at 330-819-8437 or at nhouser278@aol.com Through 5/31 Bench Tile Contest Enter a contest to design tiles for two new benches that will be installed at Brunswick Lake Park. Tiles will be 6-inches by 6inches and will be affixed around the edges of benches made of cedar and steel. Entry forms and details available at Brunswick City Hall, 4095 Center Rd., Brunswick. www.brunswickartworks.org

Through 5/15 “The Nerd” On the night of his 34th birthday, an architect welcomes into his home the man who saved his life in Vietnam, and this nerdy visitor soon proves the old saying that fish and houseguests begin to stink after three days. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. Call for dates and times. $21. 330-836-2626 Through 5/15 Studio M Exhibition: Walsh University Photojournalism Students View the students’ photographs juxtaposed with the work of famous photographers whose style they want to emulate.

Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon.

Tues.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org Through 5/21 “Rock The Tradition” Musicians and bands with at least one musician 18 or younger will compete for their original recording to be a part of a nationally distributed music compilation called “Rock the Tradition.” Select winners will be invited to Akron to participate in a concert and may be considered for a recording deal with Magnetic Bunny Arts. Sponsored by the All American Soap Box Derby (AASBD), Corbin Bernsen’s “25 Hill” film and recording label Magnetic Bunny Arts. Proceeds from sales will be donated to the All American Soap Box Derby. Deadline for song submissions is 5/2. Download an entry form at RockTheTradition.com

Through 6/5 Beyond Newsprint The six artists featured (Chuck Ayers, Dennis Balogh, Derf, Kathy Hagedorn, Art Krummel and Brian Shellito) have worked for the Akron Beacon Journal as graphic artists, illustrators and cartoonists. Free demo: 5/7, 1-3 p.m. with Dennis Balogh; two workshops for adults and older teens: 5/21, 1-3 p.m. with Chuck Ayers and 5/28, 1-3 p.m. with Brian Shellito. Beginners and professional artists welcome. E-mail psargent@neo.rr.com to register. Summit Artspace, 140 E. Market St., Akron. Gallery hours: Thurs.-Sat., noon to 5 p.m. Free admission and parking. www.akronareaarts.org

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

Through 6/5 Celebrate the Sixties Explore one of the most turbulent decades in American history.

Exhibit includes a 1969 Oldsmobile 442 convertible, an above-the-knee wedding dress, Jacqueline Kennedy paper dolls, a majorette uniform from the first Pro Football Hall of Fame Parade, a vintage Barbie, Batman collectibles and more. McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, Keller Gallery, 800 McKinley Monument Dr. NW, Canton. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m. $6-$8 (children under 2, free). 330-455-7043 Through 6/9 Keep Akron Beautiful Dreamscape raffle ticket sale Owners of Summit County businesses or residences can enter to win a professionally designed front- or back-yard makeover valued at $10,000. Winning ticket will be drawn 6/ 9 at 10:30 a.m. at Alexander Park on West Market Street. Raffle tickets: $25 each or five for $100. www. keepakronbeautiful.org

Through 6/11 Unfolding Space Cleveland artist Sarah Kabot creates installations that toy with human perception. Kabot will use foamcore to replicate the lights, floorboards and wall surfaces of the gallery. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Mon., Tues. Free for members and children under 12 with adult. $5-$7. 330-376-9185 Through 7/10 All-Star Jazz: The Photographs of Herman Leonard Often credited with creating the visual archetype of the jazz musician, Herman Leonard photographed his subjects during performances, rehearsals, recording sessions and backstage gatherings to create a visual diary of post-war jazz.

Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Mon., Tues.

Free for members and children under 12 with adult. $5-$7. 330-376-9185 Through 9/30 Akron Zoo Annual Shutterbug Photo Contest Calling photographers of all ages. Start snapping photos of your favorite animals, landscapes or exhibits at the Akron Zoo. All entries must be printed on 4-by-6-inch photographic quality paper in black and white or color. Entry fee: one photo, $5; additional photos submitted by same contestant, $3 each. Prizes will be awarded for the top three winners in each category. Judges will evaluate entries for composition, neatness, imaginative subject matter and photographic quality. Submit entries by 9/30. www. akronzoo.org Through 10/28 Uniquely Rubber Explore the many roles and uses of the Hevea brasiliensis (rubber) plant. Exhibit features mid-19th century to Civil War-era items from the extensive collection of Mike Woshner: hard rubber combs, flasks, buttons, matchboxes, inkwells, pens, medical items and jewelry that appear to be made of modern plastic. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, Manor House, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. Tues-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Last admission, 4:30 p.m. $10 for adults, $4 for students 6-17, and free for children 5 and under and Stan Hywet members. 330836-5533

www.akronlife.com

17

Through 10/28 Plants of Industry Offers a broad look at the use and influence of flowers, trees and other vegetation in business and commerce. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, Corbin Conservatory, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Last admission, 4:30 p.m. $10 for adults, $4 for students 6-17, and free for children 5 and under and Stan Hywet members. 330-836-5533 5/1-5/31 M is for Moms The Library Shop on Main will offer quilting, crafting and Mother’s Day books at low prices. For book groups, multiple copies of popular titles also being featured, along with tips for starting a book group. Half-price “dot” sale on selected books, 5/3-5/5. Sidewalk sale, 5/4, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. AkronSummit County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron.

Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Free. 330-643-9070 5/1-6/30 Spree For All Multiple locations within Metro Parks. Hikers on foot and those with strollers, wheelchairs, walkers and canes enjoy flat, easy trails during this 8th annual hiking series. Complete at least five hikes to receive hiking rewards. Rewards: free to Summit County residents; out-of-county hikers, $10 for first-year hikers, $5 for veteran hikers. Go to summitmetroparks.org for hiking forms and list of trails or to F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm (1828 Smith Rd., Akron), the park district’s administrative offices (975 Treaty Line Rd., Akron) and all Acme Fresh Market stores in Summit County. 330-865-8065

5/1 Birding in Clinton Join naturalist Meghan Doran for this 4th annual series of bird walks along the Towpath Trail.

Follow the spring migration, and discover which species pass through or stay to nest. Towpath Trail, Clinton Trailhead, 2749 North St., Clinton. 8:30 a.m. Free. 330865-8065 5/1 Wildflowers from in the Saddle Saddle up your horse to learn about local flowers with naturalist Sarah Putnam. See the explosion of flowers along the trail while learning about native plants. Bring your own horse and tack. Silver Creek Metro Park, Boathouse, 5171 S. Medina Line Rd., Norton. 2 p.m. Free. 330865-8065

18

akronlife

5/4 Josh Buskirk An instrumental, blues guitar concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. ClevelandMassillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426

5/1 UA Tuba Ensemble Performed by students.

Guzzetta Recita Hall, Room 9, 139 E. Buchtel Ave., Akron. 5 p.m. Free. 330-972-8301 5/1 Quietdrive With All Ends Up. Musica, 51 E. Market St., Akron. 6 p.m. show. $9. www. akronmusica.com 5/2 Breathe Carolina A concert of crowd-pleasing pop, rock and electronica. With Everbright and Where Are You Houston. Musica, 51 E. Market St., Akron.

6 p.m. doors open, 6:30 p.m. show. $12. www. akronmusica.com

5/2 Brian Henke A fingerstyle guitar concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland- Massillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426

5/1, 5/15, 5/22 and 5/29 Woof Walks Walk your dog on the grounds and enjoy the beauty of Stan Hywet on most Sundays (except 5/8, 6/19 and 10/2). Dogs must be leashed, and owners expected to pick up after their pets (“doggie bag” provided). All dogs receive a doggie biscuit. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Last admission, 4:30 p.m.

Garden and grounds admission: $5 per dog, $10 for adults, $4 for students 6-17, and free for children 5 and under and Stan Hywet members. 330-836-5533

5/4 Akron Urban League Annual Meeting and Scholarship Lunch Guest speakers: Ilene Shapiro, Council Member At-Large, Summit County Council; G. Kwame Scruggs, Alchemy, Inc.; and Gary Wyatt, North Hill Community House. Akron Urban League, 440 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. $50. www.akronurbanleague.org

5/1 UA Concert Choir/Chamber Choir Performed by a student ensemble. Guzzetta Recital Hall, 139 E. Buchtel Ave., Akron. 3 p.m. Free. 330-972-8301

5/2 Monday Night Movies Watch the best films of 2010. This week: “The Kids Are All Right,” Rated R, adults only. Refreshments served 10 minutes prior; popcorn, iced tea and giveaways. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Rd., Twinsburg. 6:30-8 p.m.

Free. Call 330-425-4268, ext. 2, for reservations

5/1 and 5/3 “Memphis” LIVE Captured live in performance on Broadway, “Memphis” bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, songs and a tale of fame and forbidden love. Regal Montrose Movies 12, 4020 Medina Rd., Akron, 330-6669357; Hudson Cinema 10, 5339 Darrow Rd., Hudson, 330-655-3584. Sun., 12:30 p.m.; Tues., 7:30 p.m. $20.

Cello Quintet juxtaposed with a new work by the Argentinian composer Osvaldo Golijov. This piece was written exclusively for SLSQ and was just premiered at Carnegie Hall. Tuesday Musical Club, EJ Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $22-$40. 330-761-3460

5/3 Stroller Hike Bring your little one out for a hike. Children can be in strollers, backpacks or can toddle along on their own. Be prepared for some unpaved trails; mid- to full-size or jogger-type strollers recommended. All ages welcome. Plum Creek Park South, 2500 Plum Creek Pkwy., Brunswick. 10 a.m.

Free. 330-722-9364 5/3 “Viaducts, Foot Bridges, Historic Bridges” Join this history discussion group, moderated by Chris Craft. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Coffee and sweets available for a donation. www.massillonmuseum.org 5/3 Radio Murder Sarah’s Vineyard and Random Acts present this murder mystery dinner and show. Each ticket includes a 90-minute interactive murder mystery, appetizer, salad with gourmet rolls and butter, dinner (meat or veggie lasagna), mixed vegetables, dessert and three samples from Sarah’s wine selection. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Sarah’s Vineyard, 1204 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 6-10 p.m. $40. 330-929-8057 5/3 Downtown Fiction With He Is We, Cady Groves and Amely. Musica, 51 E. Market St., Akron. 7 p.m. show. $12. www.akronmusica.com 5/3 St. Lawrence String Quartet with cellist Andrés Diaz Features Franz Schubert’s beloved

may 2011

5/6-5/15 “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” See a whirlwind of antics and acrobatics when a cookie is given to a mouse by a well-meaning boy. This physical production is colorful, dynamic and very funny.

Suggested for students up to Grade 3.

Magical Theatre Company, 565 Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton. Call for times and prices.

330-848-3708 5/6 Firestone Friday Feathers & Friends New and experienced birdwatchers join naturalist Pat Rydquist every Friday morning through 5/20 for spring bird walks along the Tuscarawas River migratory flyway.

Excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas. Binoculars are recommended. Participants will receive a checklist and final tally of birds seen this season. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 7:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/6 Green & Clean Business employees and community members form teams and do projects around their own downtown property or are assigned tasks within the district. Morning or afternoon shifts available. Each team member receives a t-shirt, goodie bag and a lunch celebration at the Green Fair at Lock 3 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Call to get an assignment and a shift. 330-374-7676 5/6 Show & Tell Me a Story Join naturalist Sarah Matheny for a special storytime with puppets and games. Kids 1 and up are welcome with their favorite adult. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 10:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/6 Akron Aeros vs. Trenton Thunder Cajun toga party fireworks. The Sauce Boss. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com

5/6 An Evening with Judy Collins Collins has thrilled audiences worldwide with her unique blend of interpretative folksongs and contemporary themes.

Her impressive career has spanned more than 50 years. The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent. 8 p.m. $35-$50. 330-677-5005 5/6 Canton First Friday – Gone to the Dogs This themed, monthly street party features art exhibits, workshops, poetry slams, kids activities, concerts, restaurant specials and more! Past First Fridays have included giraffes, flash mobs, Budweiser Clydesdales, belly dancing, stilt-walkers, ice sculptors and a fulldress performance of Shakespeare. Downtown Canton Arts District, between Cleveland and Market avenues, and between 6th St. NE and Tuscarawas St. 6-10 p.m.

Free. www.cantonfirstfriday.com 5/7-5/28 Canstruction display Design teams come together to build structures made entirely of canned foods to benefit the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank.

Open to the public. We Gallery, 20 N. High St., Akron.

Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m. www.thewegallery.com

5/7 ACCESS Kick Up Your Heels 5K & Stiletto Sprint Got sneakers? The 5K is for you. Got stilettos? The Stiletto Sprint, the first of its kind in Northeast Ohio, is open to women (and brave men) willing to sprint for the cause in their favorite high heels. Proceeds benefit ACCESS Homeless Shelter. Summit Mall main entrance, 3265 W. Market St., Akron. Registration, 7 a.m.; Stiletto Sprint, 8 a.m.; Kick Up Your Heels 5K, 9 a.m. $10-$35. www.kickupyourheels5K.com

N OW S HOW I N G O N A M O N I TO R N E A R YO U !

Trip Planner, System Map, How-to-Videos, Mobile Site and More...

It’s stopping traffic!

www.akronlife.com

19

5/7 Choir Performances High school choirs from Wayne, Medina, Summit and Portage counties that received superior ratings at District Choir Events perform for a state-level choir adjudicated event.

Highland Vocal Music, Auditorium, 4150 Ridge Rd., Medina. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. 330-239-1901 5/7 Getting Started in African American Genealogy The Special Collections Division presents a class for genealogy beginners who have a specific interest in African American ancestral research. Akron-Summit County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Meeting Room 2AB, Akron. 10 a.m.-noon. Free. sc.akronlibrary.org 5/7 Babysitting Class RNs will teach babysitting as a business, choking prevention, problem prevention, safety for the sitter and more. For boys and girls 11-15.

Medina County District Library, 210 S. Broadway, Medina. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $45 fee includes a safe sitter manual and completion card. 330-723-6393 5/7 Eco-Arts Chalk Festival Enjoy nature activities and displays, go on a naturalist-led hike and create chalk drawing masterpieces. Prizes will be awarded for: best elementary, best middle school, best high school, best adult and best group entries. Susan Hambley Nature Center, 1473 Parschen Blvd., Brunswick. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. Call 330-722-9364 by 5/6 to reserve chalk space 5/7 Kinderealm: Three Sisters Garden Children 3-6 and their adult companions discover the importance of American Indians’ Three Sisters Garden. Program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 10:30 a.m. Free.

Registration begins 4/28; call 330-865-8065

5/7 Rubber City Rollergirls double header The RCRG’s AK Rowdy Rollers versus Gen City Roller Girls, and the RCRG’s Rubber City Renegades versus Ohio Rollergirls. John S. Knight Center, 77 E. Mill St., Akron.

Doors open, 4 p.m.; bout, 5 p.m. Free parking. Adults, $9 in advance, $13 at the door; kids 12 and under, $5 in advance, $6 at the door. www.rubbercityrollergirls. com 5/7 Downtown Akron Artwalk Each month, meet the artists who make downtown a culturally and artistically vibrant community. Participating galleries are in the Northside District, North High Street, East and West Market Street, and Main Street. The city’s free trolley service runs the entire route 5-10 p.m. www.downtownakron.com/enjoy/artwalk 5/8 Birding in Clinton Join naturalist Meghan Doran for this 4th annual series of bird walks along the Towpath Trail. Towpath Trail, Clinton Trailhead, 2749 North St., Clinton. 8:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/8 Spring Wildflowers Hike the 1.2-mile Oxbow Trail with naturalist Mike Greene in search of these colorful trailside highlights. Cascade Valley Metro Park, Oxbow Area, 1061 Cuyahoga St., Akron. 1 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065 5/8 Akron Aeros vs. Trenton Thunder Family Funday. Mother’s Day celebration. Cancer Awareness Day with special pink jersey auction. Pink visor giveaway to the first 1,000 ladies. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 1:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com

5/7 Life on the Canal Ever wonder what life was like on a canal boat on the Ohio & Erie Canal? Join naturalist and captain Dave Gates for an easy hike along the towpath to explore what life was like for canawlers. Expect to hike about 2.4 miles. Towpath Trail, Mustill Store Trailhead, 248 Ferndale St., Akron.

11 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/7 Meet Cheeks Meet Cheeks the chipmunk at the trailhead and receive a Metro Park trading card; then hike the trail on your own to earn Spree For All credit. Cancelled if it rains. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield. 11 a.m.-noon. Free. 330-865-8065 5/7 Do the Mu: Meet Stark Parks living history interpreter, Canal Boat Captain TJ Drop in any time during the two hours for this activity time for all ages. Learn about Massillon’s canal history and its similarities to Mark Twain’s time on the river. Make a buzzer toy. Snack served. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Noon-2 p.m. Free. www. massillonmuseum.org 5/7 Free Comic Book Day Receive a free comic book.

Norton Branch, Akron-Summit County Public Library, 3930 Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 1 p.m. Free.

330-643-4710 5/7 Akron Aeros vs. Trenton Thunder Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 1:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com 5/7 Spring on Spring Hollow Join naturalist Maureen McGinty for this 1.6-mile hike to experience spring wildflowers, birds and flowering trees. Hampton Hills Metro Park, Main Entrance, 2925 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron. 2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 20

akronlife

5/8 Cooking with Wine Join the winery’s epicurean, Jim Reynolds, and learn more about the perfect pairing of wine with food, whether used as an ingredient or served alongside the meal. Plenty of samples to taste and a collection of recipes to take home and try in your own kitchen.

Prepayment required. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 6:30 p.m. $12. 800-436-0426 5/8 FolkNite Every second Sunday. A casual acoustic open jam with Greg Canda. Think of a few songs in advance you’d be willing to play or teach, and preferably, bring the lyrics and chords to share with the others. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 West Mill St., Peninsula. 7-10 p.m. Free. 330-657-2248 5/9 Monday Night Movies Watch the best films of 2010 at the library. This week: “The Fighter,” Rated R, adults only. Refreshments served 10 minutes prior; popcorn, iced tea and giveaways. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Rd., Twinsburg. 6:30-8 p.m.

Free. Call 330-425-4268, ext. 2, for reservations 5/9 Jennifer Maurer and Sam Rettman A blues, Americana concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland- Massillon Rd., Norton. 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Free.

800-436-0426 5/10-5/20 “Two Swords, a Bag of Marbles and a PB&J” The only place to see this brand-new play, commissioned for the theater’s Education Outreach Program. Young Prince Vladimir — having seen his older brothers rescue Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Rapunzel, Cinderella and the Little Mermaid — goes off in search of his own damsel in distress and finds a travel companion, a princess-in-training. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. Call for dates and times. $8. 330-836-2626 5/10 Stroller Walk With naturalist Sarah Matheny.

The paved trail is child-friendly, and socializing is encouraged. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Seneca Deck, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 10:30 a.m. Free. 330865-8065

5/8 Mother’s Day Tea and Program Enjoy delectable food, teas and an entertaining and informative program

by Sue Marocchino in the elegant surroundings of this historic home. Hower House, 60 Fir Hill, The University of Akron, Akron. 2-4 p.m. $25, adults; $10, children 8-12. Limited seating. 330-972-6909 5/8 Mother’s Day Wildflower Walk You don’t have to be a mom to join this hike and enjoy the spectacular display of wild geraniums, may apple, Solomon’s seal and more. Bring your wildflower guide. Ages 7 to adult.

Hubbard Valley Park, 8600 Hubbard Valley Rd., Seville.

3 p.m. Free. www.medinacountyparks.com 5/8 Time for Toms Learn what turkeys are doing this time of year as you hike to look for them with naturalist Sarah Putnam. Silver Creek Metro Park, Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Rd., Norton. 4 p.m. Free. 330865-8065

may 2011

5/10 Yappy Hours Enjoy a glass of wine with your best friend of the canine variety. Proceeds benefit GivePetsAChance. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd., Norton. 5-8 p.m. $10 (includes a raffle entry, a glass of wine and goodies for your dog); $5 (for non-drinkers, includes a soda or bottle of water). 800-436-0426 5/10 Meet Cheeks Meet Cheeks the chipmunk at the trailhead and receive a Metro Park trading card; then hike the trail on your own to earn Spree For All credit. Cancelled if it rains. Gorge Metro Park, Main Entrance, 1160 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls. 6-7 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065 5/11-5/22 Girls Night: The Musical Follow five friends as they re-live their past, celebrate their present and look to the future on a wild and hilarious karaoke night out ... and you’ll recognize every one of them!

Packed with musical hits. 14th St. Theatre, 2037 E. 14th St., Cleveland. Call for show times. $39.50-$55.

216-771-8403 5/11 Rachel Roberts A folk/rock pop concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland- Massillon Rd., Norton. 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426

5/11 “The Belle of Amherst” Mary Jo Alexander stars in this whimsical one-woman show, based on the life of Emily Dickinson, one of America’s greatest and most enigmatic poets. Akron Civic Theater, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $25. 330-253-2488 5/11 University Park Alliance 2011 Annual Luncheon Dr. Henry Cisneros, housing innovator and former Secretary of HUD, will deliver the keynote address: “Interwoven Destinies: America’s Cities & the Nation’s Future.” Event proceeds benefit UPA’s scholarship fund for long-term residents of University Park. Student Union Ballroom, The University of Akron.

11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. $20-$5,000. www.upakron.com 5/12-6/5 “Sleuth” Coach House closes its season with this classic thriller by Anthony Shaffer. Coach House Theatre, 732 W. Exchange St., Akron. Call for times. $12-$18. 330-434-7741 5/12 Weaving Without a Loom with Carol Adams Will equip students at any level with many aspects of fiber art without the need of a floor loom. Learn coiling, twining, macramé, braiding, card weaving, frame loom weaving, artistic crochet, artistic knitting, sprang, etc. Meets every Thursday for 6 weeks.

Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 West Mill St., Peninsula.

7-9:30 p.m. Materials fee: $15. $30 ($28 per session for PAA members). 330-657-2248 5/12 Hillbilly Idol This band remains dedicated to infectious beats, heartfelt harmony singing, crisp instrumental picking and solid songwriting about timeless themes. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 8 p.m. $10-$17. 330-873-3408 5/13 Firestone Friday Feathers & Friends Join naturalist Pat Rydquist every Friday morning through 5/20 for spring bird walks along the Tuscarawas River migratory flyway. Binoculars are recommended. All participants will receive a checklist and final tally of birds seen this season. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 7:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/13 Military Support Group Family & Friends Connected hosts this meeting for military families of all branches. F&FC, 1053 S. Hawkins Ave., Akron. 6-8 p.m. Free. 330-208-0662

5/13 Puttin on the Ritz Fundraiser Step back into time, where the “speakeasy” was the place to be. Festivities include hearty appetizers, “hooch” to wet your whistle, entertainment, casino gaming tables, desserts, silent auction, live auctions with autographed merchandise from Bill Cosby, The Temptations, George Jones, Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Gabriel Iglesias and more. Proceeds benefit the theater. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 6:30 p.m. $75. 330-535-3179 5/14 and 5/15 FIRSTMERIT Towpath Century Ride The Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition is coordinating this fundraiser to support the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Approximately 50 riders will bicycle the entire length of the trail, from the lakefront in Cleveland to the southern terminus in New Philadelphia — 101 miles. Participants receive a bicycle jersey, transportation, lunch and snacks. Call Dan Rice at 330-374-5657

www.akronlife.com

21

A cat has 32 muscles in each ear.

5/14 5th Annual Hope Walk Support individuals and families touched by cancer by participating in this 2-mile walk. Join as an individual or start a team.

Fairlawn Community Center, 3486 S. Smith Rd., Fairlawn. 8 a.m. 330-836-1772 5/14 Go Wild, Go Birding For International Migratory Bird Day, join naturalists Meghan Doran and Pat Rydquist to scout for migrating and resident birds.

The group will divide into two teams at 8:30 a.m. to tally what’s seen and heard. Winning team will have something to crow about. Enjoy bird crafts, birding information and tips from local experts. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 8 a.m.-noon. Free. 330-8658065 5/14 Extended Hike Join volunteer Pat Patterson for a 7-mile hike on the Highbridge, Gorge and Glens trails.

Meet in the back parking lot. Cascade Valley Metro Park, Chuckery Area, 837 Cuyahoga St., Akron. 9 a.m.

Free. 330-865-8065 5/14 Getting Started in Family History An introduction to genealogy for new family historians.

Includes an overview of genealogical sources available at the library, suggestions for getting started and tips for organizing your research. Akron-Summit County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Special Collections Division, 3rd floor, Akron. 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Free. sc.akronlibrary.org 5/14 Young Birders: Go Wild, Go Birding Birders 8 and up join naturalists Meghan Doran and Pat Rydquist to scout the park for migrating and resident birds.

Binoculars and bird books provided. Enjoy crafts and get birding information and tips from local experts.

Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 10:30 a.m. Free. 330865-8065 5/14 Bees for Kids Kids 6 to 12 join naturalist Sarah Putnam and beekeeper John Irvine to discover why bees are good. Watch through the window as they take apart a beehive, and then enjoy a short hike and craft.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/14 Open Mic Night at the Chit Chat Coffee Shop Sing, read poetry, present stand-up comedy or play acoustic instruments. Self-expression within familyfriendly content. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 6-9 p.m. Free. Register in advance to skynylove@yahoo.com 5/14 Sounds of Spring Concert The Summit Children’s Choirs will join their 200+ voices in this annual spring celebration. Cuyahoga Falls High School Auditorium, 2300 4th St., Cuyahoga Falls. 7 p.m. $5$10. 330-434-7464

5/14 Moonlight Bike Ride & Campfire Ride the towpath under the light of the full Flower Moon during a family-friendly ride of 15 miles, followed by a campfire. Bring your own bike, campfire food and a chair or blanket. Helmets required. Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park, 5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula. 8 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

22

akronlife

5/15 Vino & Vinyasa Relax your mind and body with a yoga class taught overlooking the vineyards and then continue to unwind with a wine tasting. No yoga or wine experience required! Bring your own yoga mat, and wear comfortable clothing. Prepayment required.

The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 5 p.m. $20. 800-436-0426 5/16 Zach An acoustic pop concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland- Massillon Rd., Norton.

7 p.m.-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426

5/14 The Metropolitan Opera: Wagner’s Die Walkure LIVE A stellar cast comes together for this second installment of Robert Lepage’s new production of the Ring cycle, conducted by James Levine.

Bryn Terfel is Wotan, lord of the Gods.

Deborah Voigt adds the part of Brunnhilde to her extensive Wagnerian repertoire at the MET. Jones Kaufmann and Eva-Maria Westbroek star as the twins, Siegmund and Sieglinde, and Stephanie Blythe is Fricka.

Regal Montrose Movies 12, 4020 Medina Rd., Akron, 330-666-9357; Hudson Cinema 10, 5339 Darrow Rd., Hudson, 330-6553584; and Tinseltown USA, 4720 Mega St. NW, North Canton, 330-305-9877. Noon. $18-$24 5/14 Mozart Requiem Guest conductor David Lockington conducts the Akron Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. EJ Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 8 p.m.

330-972-7570 5/14 Sergei Babayan Pianist Sergei Babayan’s emotional intensity and bold energy equip him to explore stylistically-diverse repertoire. The first pianist from the former USSR to compete without government sponsorship. Babayan is currently the Mr. and Mrs. John D. Gilliam Artist-in-Residence at Cleveland Institute of Music. Christ Church Episcopal, 21 Aurora St., Hudson. 5 p.m. Free. 330-840-8429 5/15 Birding in Clinton Join naturalist Meghan Doran for the final bird walk in the series along the Towpath Trail, to review findings from the last few weeks and look for nesting birds. Towpath Trail, Clinton Trailhead, 2749 North St., Clinton. 8:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/15 Water Monsters Join naturalist Mike Greene to discover what creatures call murky waters home. Use special nets to help gather living things from the water.

Program is for all ages, but adults must accompany and supervise their children. Plan to get wet and dirty.

Meet in the Shady Beach parking lot. Munroe Falls Metro Park, Lake Area, 521 S. River Rd., Munroe Falls.

1 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/15 Leave-No-Trace Ethics Join outdoor education volunteers and naturalist Dave Gates as they share Leave-No-Trace ethics in this family-oriented program with activities, games, videos and more. Program, presented by certified LNT instructors, is ideal for scouts, leaders and camp counselors. All receive instructional materials. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 2 p.m. Free.

Registration begins 5/10; call 330-865-8065 may 2011

5/17-5/19 Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Based on the award-winning animated film, this classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers.

EJ Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $35$57.50. 330-972-7570 5/17 Kinderealm: Three Sisters Garden Children 3-6 and their adult companions discover the importance of American Indians’ Three Sisters Garden. Program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Goodyear Heights Metro Park, Pavilion, 2077 Newton St., Akron. 10:30 a.m. Free.

Registration begins 4/28; call 330-865-8065 5/17 Akron Aeros vs. Altoona Curve 2-4-2sday, buy one get one free ticket with a Kraft Singles coupon.

Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9; free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com 5/18 Jennifer Ciptak The Community Welfare Forum presents Ciptak, the school administrator of Life Skills.

She’ll discuss her organization’s life skill program during this luncheon meeting. First Congregational Church, 292 E. Market St., Akron. Noon-1 p.m.

Members $7; non-members $7.50. 330 864-1359 5/18 Kinderealm: Three Sisters Garden Children 36 and their adult companions discover the importance of American Indians’ Three Sisters Garden. Program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Pavilion, 40 Axline Ave., Akron. 1 p.m. Free.

Registration begins 4/28; call 330-865-8065 5/18 Meet Cheeks Meet Cheeks the chipmunk and receive a Metro Park trading card; then hike the trail on your own to earn Spree For All credit. Cancelled if it rains. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 6-7 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/18 Ohio’s Civil War Connection Join naturalist Dave Gates for the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War. See in photos and replicas what this war was really like, and discover the pivotal role Ohio played.

Bring your dinner; decaf coffee, tea and hot chocolate supplied. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 6:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/18 Ryann Anderson An acoustic guitar concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426 5/18 Akron Aeros vs. Altoona Curve Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com

5/19 Kinderealm: Three Sisters Garden Children 3-6 and their adult companions discover the importance of American Indians’ Three Sisters Garden. Program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers.

Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Pavilion, 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield.

10:30 a.m. Free. Registration begins 4/28; call 330-865-8065 5/19 Akron Aeros vs. Altoona Curve Education Day #2. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 10:35 a.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros. com 5/19 Akron Roundtable: Richard K. Vedder Professor of Economics, Ohio University. Quaker Square Inn at University of Akron, 135 S. Broadway, Akron. 11:45 a.m. $20. 330-247-8682 5/19 Akron History Hike The first in a series of Akron history hikes in partnership with the Summit County Historical Society. Join naturalist Maureen McGinty from Metro Parks and Charlotte Gintert from the SCHS to walk a loop from the Schumacher Mill site into downtown. Towpath Trail, Mustill Store Trailhead, 248 Ferndale St., Akron. 7 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/19 Akron Baroque Concert This 13-piece chamber ensemble, conducted by Guy Victor Bordo, performs a concert of works by Rameau, Corelli, Handel, and J.S. Bach. Will feature George Pope, flute, and Valerie Thorson, organ. First Congregational Church, 292 E. Market St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. Free. 330-253-5109

www.akronlife.com

23

In England, the Speaker of the House is not allowed to speak.

5/20-5/22 ShowHouse 2011: The Kitchen Tour The Junior League of Akron will host a tour of some of Summit County’s most gracious kitchens. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $25 pre-sale tickets. www.juniorleagueakron.org 5/20 Firestone Friday Feathers & Friends Join naturalist Pat Rydquist for her final Friday morning birdwalk along the Tuscarawas River migratory flyway.

Binoculars are recommended. All participants will receive a checklist and final tally of birds seen this season. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 7:30 a.m. Free.

330-865-8065 5/20 Mocha Moms Meeting A support group for mothers of color who have chosen not to work fulltime outside the home. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Rd., Twinsburg. 10:15 a.m.-noon. $5 per family for babysitting service. www.mochamoms.org 5/20 Studio M Exhibition Opening: Diane Belfiglio Meet this artist who works in pastels. Her works are included in 12 corporate art collections and numerous private collections, including the collection of singer Patti LaBelle. Refreshments served. Exhibition runs through 6/26. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Free. 330-873-3408

Step back into time, where the “Speak Easys” were the place to be. Casinos, Bath-Tub Gin, Hotsy Totsys and The Big Cheese were all part of the scenery.

Friday, May 13th starting at 6:30pm The night’s festivities will include: Hearty appetizers “Hooch” to wet your whistle Entertainment Casino Gaming Tables Desserts Silent Auction Live Auctions with autographed merchandise from Bill Cosby, The Temptations, Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt, George Jones and many more!

Lots of surprises!

Ticket info at www.AkronCivic.com Call the Civic for more information 330-535-3179 $OO SURFHHGV EHQH¿W The Akron Civic Theatre

5/20 6th Annual “Hail to the Chefs” Fundraising Gala This preview party features many of the chefs who will participate in the Taste of Hudson event over Labor Day weekend. Great food selections from numerous cooking stations, fine wines and crafted beers, dancing to the music of Fabulous Voices, a silent auction and a presentation of the annual “Children at Heart” award. Lake Forest Country Club, 100 Lake Forest Dr., Hudson. 7-11 p.m. Call for ticket prices. www.tasteofhudson.com]] 5/20 Firestone Friday: Dulcimer & Guitar Campfire Donna McDonald and Tim Yeager share their musical heritage and talents on dulcimer and guitar. Bring a chair and marshmallow sticks; marshmallows supplied.

Program will be moved to the shelter if it rains.

Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-8658065

5/21, 5/22, 5/27, 5/28 and 5/29 Day Out with Thomas Take a ride with a 15-ton replica of Thomas the Tank Engine, and enjoy Thomas-themed activities at the Imagination Station, including stamps, temporary tattoos and hands-on arts and crafts. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 7100 Riverview Rd., Boston Township. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $18 plus tax for ages 2 and up. 866-468-7630

akronlife

5/21 Hike & Breakfast Join the Nature Realm chefs for a spring hike and breakfast. Participants will contribute to the feast. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 8 a.m. Free.

Registration begins 5/12.330-865-8065 5/21 Finding Your Family in the Census U.S. Census records are rich sources of genealogical information.

Learn more about using these records in your family research. Basic computer skills are recommended.

Akron-Summit County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Computer Lab 1, 1st Floor, Akron. 10 a.m.-noon. Free. sc.akronlibrary.org 5/21 Path to Success Walkathon Complimentary food, music and family-friendly activities provided.

Walkers of all ages and strollers are welcome. Proceeds benefit Pathway Caring for Children’s Family Services program, which provides services for adoptive children and their families. Price Park, 1000 W. Maple St., North Canton. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 330-818-0416 5/21 Tour the Towpath: Part Two Avid cyclists join Bike Patrol volunteers to ride the entire towpath from Harvard Road to Zoar in four segments. Part two is a 32-mile ride that heads south to Zoar for lunch.

Helmets required. Ernie’s Bike Shop, 135 Lake Ave. NW, Massillon. 10 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/21 Beginning Weaving with Carol Adams Learn how to calculate your warp, dress the loom and weave a sampler, using many different types of 4-harness weaves. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 West Mill St., Peninsula. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $30; $28 for PAA members.

330-657-2248

Don’t miss the opportunity to be the Cat’s Pajamas!

24

5/21 13th annual Jeep Davis Memorial 5K & Kids Romp The 5K begins at the Military Honor Roll on 6th St. NW and ends in front of the Barberton Public Library. The Kids Romp is a free, noncompetitive event for kids 10 and under. All finishers receive prizes. Proceeds benefit the Barberton Community Foundation’s Jeep Davis Olympic Hopeful Fund, which assists young Barberton athletes.

Participants receive a ticket to the Magic City Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast at St. Augustine that same morning. Lake Anna, Downtown Barberton. 8 a.m. $18, online registration (www.rsracingsystems.com); $20, mail-in-entries (available from cbako@ bcfcharity.org or all Akron YMCAs); $25, race-day entries and mail-ins postmarked after 5/13. 330-745-5995

may 2011

5/21 Goosetown: Reconstructing an Akron Neighborhood Speaker will be Dr. Joyce Dyer, author of “Goosetown” She’s director of writing and professor of English at Hiram College and also the author of 3 other books. Akron-Summit County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron. 1 p.m. Free. sc.akronlibrary.org 5/21 Pond Brook Progress Report Join naturalists Meghan Doran and Sarah Matheny on an extended hike in this beautifully restored area. Discover habitat improvements, wildlife and unique plants. Wear sturdy boots that can get wet, and bring snacks and water.

Liberty Park, Pond Brook Conservation Area, 3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg. 2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/22 Three Waterfalls Hike Join a park ranger on this 9.5-mile difficult hike on and off trail to Brandywine, Blue Hen and Buttermilk falls, exploring the dynamics of our watershed. Pack a lunch, and wear appropriate footwear. Boston Store Visitor Center, 1550 Boston Mills Rd., Peninsula. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. www.nps. gov/cuva 5/22 Nest & Egg I.D. Hike Join naturalist Danette Rushboldt on this family-friendly hike. Will begin on the Seneca Deck with a quick lesson in nest and egg identification before hitting Cherry Lane Trail. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Seneca Deck, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/22 Springfield Bog Hike Join naturalist Pat Rydquist to hike around the newest Metro Park, exploring which animals and plants live in the fields and wetlands.

Dress for an off-trail hike. Springfield Bog Metro Park, 1400 Portage Line Rd., Springfield Township. 3 p.m.

Free. Registration begins 5/19. 330-865-8065 5/22 Ron Pope Pope is part guitar hero, part introspective songwriter. With guest Ari Herstand.

Musica, 51 E. Market St., Akron. Doors open, 5:30 p.m.; show, 6 p.m. $12. www.akronmusica.com

5/22 U.F.O. For U.F.O., it’s the audience who passes final judgment on the quality of a song. Only when a number has proven its worth at a U.F.O. gig can Phil Mogg and the rest of the band be confident that it’ll stand the test of time. Tangier, 532 W. Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $30-$35. 330376-7171 5/23 Barberton Book Club Join in for a lively discussion of May’s book selection: “Such a Pretty Face” by Cathy Lamb. Call or stop by for a copy of the book. Bring a friend. Barberton Public Library, 602 W. Park Ave., Barberton. 6 p.m. Free. www. barbertonlibrary.org 5/23 Monday Night Movies Watch the best films of 2010 at the library. This week: “Toy Story 3.”

Refreshments served 10 minutes prior; popcorn, iced tea and giveaways. Twinsburg Public Library, 10050 Ravenna Rd., Twinsburg. 6:30-8 p.m. Free. Call 330425-4268, ext. 2, for reservations 5/23 Kerry Kean An singer/songwriter, guitar concert.

The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426 5/23 Akron Aeros vs. Harrisburg Senators Charity Begins at Home. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron.

7:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com

:,//,$06 +$5':22' )/225,1* ,QVWDOODWLRQV

VT IW 6KRZURRP

3UHILQLVKHG

8QILQLVKHG

5HSDLUV 6DQG )LQLVK 'XVW (YDFXDWLRQ 6\VWHP

:HVW 1RUWK 6WUHHW $NURQ 2KLR

ZLOOLDPVIORRULQJ FRP www.akronlife.com

25

Mr. Rogers was an ordained minister.

5/24 Brown Bag Lunch: “On the Mark: Twain Ties to Ohio” Presented by Mark Dawidziak, author, actor and Twain scholar. Part of “The Big Read: Western Star k County Reads The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.” Bring lunch; buy specialty beverages at the Chit Chat Coffee Shoppe; enjoy complimentary coffee and cookies.

Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon.

12:10-12:50 p.m. Free. 330-873-3408 5/24 Akron Aeros vs. Harrisburg Senators 2-42sday, buy one get one free ticket with a Kraft Singles coupon. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com 5/25 Master Gardeners: The Nature Realm’s Sustainable Landscape Landscape architect John Vittum shares the plans, processes, results and lessons learned at the Nature Realm and their impacts on future projects. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 7 p.m. Free. 330-8658065 5/25 Jim Gill and Cathy Miller A singer/songwriter and fiddle concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Free.

800-436-0426 5/25 Akron Aeros vs. Harrisburg Senators Crock Pot junkie cookoff. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron.

7:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com 5/26 Akron Aeros vs. Harrisburg Senators Education Day #3. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron.

10:35 a.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com 5/26 Meet Cheeks Meet Cheeks the chipmunk, and receive a Metro Park trading card; then hike the trail on your own to earn Spree For All credit. Cancelled if it rains. Towpath Trail, Clinton Trailhead, 2749 North St., Clinton. 6-7 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/27 Kinderealm: Three Sisters Garden Children 3 to 6 and their adult companions discover the importance of American Indians’ Three Sisters Garden.

Program includes a craft and short hike. Please make other arrangements for children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Free. Registration begins 4/28. 330-865-8065 5/27 Freewheelin’ Friday Join naturalist Maureen McGinty for this 15-mile ride that will head north past ledges and waterfalls. Bike & Hike Trail, SR 303 Trailhead, 64 W. Streetsboro Rd., Boston Hts. 11 a.m.

Free. 330-865-8065

5/27 Rumours, The Tribute to Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks With The WIXY 1260 Band. Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St., Akron. 7 p.m. Free. www.lock3live.com 5/27 Firestone Friday: More Ohio Tales & Campfire Experience the weird, wacky and wonderful as naturalist Dave Gates serves up another helping of Ohio tales. Bring a chair and roasting sticks; marshmallows provided. If it rains, the program will be moved to the shelter. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 26

akronlife

may 2011

5/27 Akron Aeros vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels Memorial Day fireworks spectacular. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com 5/28 Hot Glass Working Class By appointment, 10 a.m.-noon; meet Brian Graham, resident hot glass artist, and see his works; hot glass production demonstrations, noon-5 p.m. Canal Fulton Glassworks, 215 Market St. West, Canal Fulton. 330-854-2966 or www.canalfultonglassworks.com 5/28 Fiber Cafe meetings Plan upcoming events and classes, and meet fellow fiber artists. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 West Mill St., Peninsula. 10 a.m.

330-657-2248 5/28 Kids’ Fishing Kids 15 and under learn about the basics of fishing. A few rods and reels will be available during the program. Bait provided. Adults must supervise their children but aren’t permitted to fish. Firestone Metro Park, Little Turtle Pond, 2400 Harrington Rd., Akron. 1 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/28 Woodland Flowers Walkabout Meet naturalist Meghan Doran at the trailhead to find out about those beautiful flowers growing on the trailside. Hampton Hills Metro Park, Main Entrance, 2925 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron. 3 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/28 Spring Celebration Campfire Stories and games with naturalist Sarah Matheny. Bring blankets, chairs and drinks. Marshmallows and sticks provided.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Campfire Area, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 6 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

5/28 BluesNite An informal open jam for all levels of musicians interested in playing and learning the blues. Every fourth Saturday. Bring your equipment (electric or acoustic instruments) and join in, or sit back, bring your own food and drink, and enjoy the music. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 West Mill St., Peninsula. 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Free. www.openmicmusic.org 5/28 Akron Aeros vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels Military appreciation night, featuring Sgt. Slaughter.

Aeros camo cap giveaway. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com 5/29 Akron Aeros vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels Family Funday. Curve ball giveaway. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 1:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com 5/29 Nature Realm Book Club Naturalist Sarah Matheny leads a discussion of this month’s selection, “The Daily Coyote: A Story of Love, Survival, and Trust in the Wilds of Wyoming” by Shreve Stockton. Warm drinks and snacks provided. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 2 p.m.

Free. 330-865-8065 5/29 O’Brother Musica, 51 E. Market St., Akron.

Show, 7 p.m. $10. www.akronmusica.com 5/30-7/22 “Spirit Dresses” This one-woman show by Judith Salamon features newly created contemporary works in mixed media, based on an American Indian folklore legend. The dresses are designed to be worn

*HQHUDO 'HQWLVW 3URYLGLQJ 6HGDWLRQ for life passages and ceremonies as they’re part of the universal “Circle of Life.” Also featured are small works in collage and water media. Opening reception, 6/24, 5-7 p.m. Akron Woman’s City Club, 732 W. Exchange St., Akron. Mon.-Wed., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs.-Fri., 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. 330-762-6261

5/30-9/5 Innovation Stations Interact with larger-than-life, energy-powered “machines” meant to educate and inspire children of all ages. Designed to be fun, interactive experiences, each installation focuses on a form of energy, including kinetic energy, wind power, compressed air power, solar energy and momentum. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Last admission at 4:30 p.m. $10, adults; $4, students 6-17; free, children 5 and under and Stan Hywet members. 330-836-5533 5/30 City of Green Memorial Day Festivities Pancake breakfast, parade, car show, community picnic and Memorial Day service. 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. www.cityofgreen.org 5/30 Memorial Day Parade Join the City of New Franklin to honor our veterans. Parade starts at the Grace Bible Church, 5781 Manchester Rd., Akron. 1011:30 a.m. Free. 330-882-4324

.DWH 5D\PRQG ' ' 6 ,I \RX·UH DIUDLG WR JR WR WKH GHQWLVW \RX·YH FRPH WR WKH ULJKW SODFH (YHU IHOW HPEDUUDVVHG DERXW \RXU WHHWK" +DG D EDG H[SHULHQFH ZLWK D GHQWLVW LQ WKH SDVW" +DYH D VWURQJ JDJ UHÁ H[" 'R WKH VRXQGV DQG VPHOOV RI GHQWLVWU\ PDNH \RX DQ[LRXV" $IUDLG RI QHHGOHV" +DYH WURXEOH JHWWLQJ QXPE" 6R EXV\ WKDW \RX GRQ·W KDYH PXFK WLPH WR JLYH WR \RXU GHQWDO FDUH"

7KHQ FRQVFLRXV VHGDWLRQ LV WKH DQVZHU IRU \RX ,W·V VLPSOH DQG VDIH $OO RI WKH SURFHGXUHV \RX QHHG FDQ EH GRQH DW RQH WLPH <RX ZLOO KDYH YHU\ OLWWOH PHPRU\ RI \RXU YLVLW

)RU \RXU KHDOWK )RU \RXU FRPIRUW :H ZDQW \RX WR IHHO EHWWHU

9LVLW RXU :HEVLWH IRU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ www.sedationdentistakron.com Call for an Appointment Today

330-825-4446

4322 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. Norton, OH 44203

5/30 Mucky Bugs Display Join naturalist Sarah Matheny to learn about aquatic wildlife and plants, and discover what it takes to survive in a pond ecosystem.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Seneca Deck, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 1-4 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 5/30 Akron Aeros vs. Richmond Flying Squirrels Charity Begins at Home, benefiting the American Heart Association. Get your free tickets at Subway. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 1:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com 5/30 Catch of the Day Cast a line into Brushwood Lake with naturalist Sarah Putnam, and learn about local fish. A limited number of fishing poles available for use. Bait provided. Each adult must have a valid fishing license. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield. 3 p.m. Free. 330865-8065 5/30 Operations A jazz, R&B and soul concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426

june 6/1 Josh Buskirk An instrumental, blues guitar concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. ClevelandMassillon Rd., Norton. 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Free. 800-4360426 6/2-6/26 “Pippin” In this musical retelling of Prince Pippin, the son of King Charlemagne seeks the secret to happiness and fulfillment. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. Call for dates and times. $24. 330-836-2626 6/3 Bargain, The Nation’s #1 Who Tribute Band With Blood Sweat and Beers. Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St., Akron. 7 p.m. Free. www.lock3live.com www.akronlife.com

27

Main Library

With ground floor retail, the Gothic Building connects your practice to the heart of the Akron legal community.

Convenient attached and covered parking Full usable basement

Connected to the "Legal Loop" Skywalk System

SM

E M IL

L ST

REET

OAD

Gothic Bldg

EET

John S. Knight Center

S BR

Conveniently located at High and Mill streets near city hall and the courthouse, the Gothic Building has become center stage for Akron’s legal community. This four-story historic structure offers smartly renovated office space from 3,000 - 9,000 ft.

Bar Assoc.

S H IG

A IN

STR

EET

IN THE

6/4 The Legendary Drifters Legendary singing quartet who sang “Under the Boardwalk.” The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent. 8 p.m. $20. 330-677-5005

6/5 LA Phil Live: Dudamel Conducts Brahms For the first time ever, NCM Fathom and the Los Angeles Philharmonic are partnering to bring specially selected performances live from the Walt Disney Concert Hall to movie theatres nationwide. Montrose Movies 12, 4020 Medina Rd., Akron, 330-666-9357; Tinseltown USA, 4720 Mega St. NW, North Canton. 5 p.m. $16-$20. 330-305-9877

STR

6/4 Akron Aeros vs. Binghamton Mets Manny Ramirez throwback bobble head. Appearance by Jerry “The King” Lawler. Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron.

7:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www. akronaeros.com

6/5 Akron Aeros vs. Binghamton Mets Family Funday. Pillowcases giveaway for the first 2,000 kids.

Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 1:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com

WAY

6/4 Downtown Akron Artwalk Opportunity to meet the artists that make downtown a culturally and artistically vibrant community. www.downtownakron. com/enjoy/artwalk

T

6/4 Summer Festival Under new ownership. Grand re-opening event. Mapleside Farms, 294 Pearl Road, Brunswick. 9 a.m. Free. www.mapleside.com

REE

6/3 Urban Luau II With Carlos Jones & The Plus Band, Umojah Nation and Rhodes St Rude Boys. Musica, 51 E. Market St., Akron. 9 p.m. show. $10. www.akronmusica.com

6/5, 6/12 and 6/26 Woof Walks Walk your dog on the grounds, and enjoy the beauty of Stan Hywet on most Sundays (except 6/19 and 10/2). Dogs must be leashed, and owners are expected to pick up after their pets (“doggie bag” provided).

All dogs receive a doggie biscuit Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Last admission, 4:30 p.m. Garden and grounds admission: $5 per dog; $10, adults; $4, students 6-17; free, children 5 and under and Stan Hywet members. 330-836-5533

H ST

6/3 Akron Aeros vs. Binghamton Mets Superhero fireworks. Appearance by BirdZerk! Canal Park, 300 S. Main St., Akron. 7:05 p.m. $5-$9, free for children 3 and under. www.akronaeros.com

P P

CitiCenter City Hall

E BO

WER

Y ST

REE

T

Summit County Court House Stubbs Justice Center

GET IN THE LOOP – TOUR THE SPACE TODAY! p: 330·697·4619 e: tnt_everettgrp@yahoo.com

1Akron .com 28

akronlife

may 2011

FLASH Taste of Vintage

1

2

3

4

5

Nearly 400 guests attended Goodwill Industries’ fifth-annual Taste of Vintage on Nov. 18 in the Tangier ballroom.

In addition to silent and live auctions, guests watched a vintage fashion show featuring garments from 1947 to the late 1980s — most were donated pieces from Goodwill’s Vintage Collection. With oldies music as a soundtrack, 33 notable community women graced the runway and demonstrated fashion trends in history.

Proceeds from the event — more than $34,000 — will support Goodwill Industries’ Youth Employment Opportunities to Work Program and Radio Reading Service.

1. Jessica Burkhart, akronlife magazine 2. Dawn Bowman, White Hat Management 2

1

5. Naomi Merklin and Nicole Wolanski,

3. Michelle Ward, ASW Global, LLC

1. Princess Cheyenne Charles 2. Prince Charming/ Camp Y Noah Director Mike Oh and Cinderella/Kendall Diver

4. Jenny Schumacher, American Red Cross and Shenen May, Junior League of Akron both of Revere High School

1

Valentine’s Ball

The Snow Bowl

The Akron Area YMCA Teen Leaders Club, Y-Maidens, Y staff and volunteers came together Feb. 19 to transform Voris Community Learning Center into a magical Valentine’s Ball. Sponsored by Giant Eagle and Greg’s Painting Company in Barberton, the event helped the YMaidens collect donations for the Partners With Youth annual giving campaign.

The Akron Zoo’s 24th annual Snow Bowl was held Jan. 29 at Stonehedge Family Fun Center and raised more than $30,000 for animals at the zoo. Snow Bowl is a target score bowling tournament, and the winning team must predict their score ahead of time. Coming within one pin of their predicted score — and winning the tournament — was Chemstress Consultant Co. FedEx Custom Critical’s team, Strike That, came in second place, and The House of LaRose came in third place.

As the evening’s activities came to a close, Cinderella and Prince Charming met the children on the dance f loor as hundreds of red and black balloons fell from the ceiling.

And they lived happily ever after ...

Eighty-six teams participated in this year’s event, including area organizations and businesses. Over 120 employees from FedEx Custom Critical participated with 24 teams — the most by any company. Proceeds from the event support the Akron Zoo’s mission and their programs. Snow Bowl was sponsored by Pepsi Americas, SGS Tool Company and Rubber City Radio Group, which emceed the event.

The End.

2

1. L to R: WCCV Flooring team members John Merriman, Shawn Bates, Greg Peeler, Jack Howe and Patrick Williams 2. Allyson Tatlow of the Akron Zoo, and WONE radio personality and Snow Bowl emcee Sandra Miller

www.akronlife.com

29

museums & galleries

Akron Art Museum – “Kaleidoscopic XVII: Caribbean Blues” by Paula Nadelstern The Canal Fulton Glass Works – Vase by Brian Graham

2nd April Galerie & Studios 324 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330-451-0924 secondapril.org

Akron Art Museum 1 S. High St., Akron, 330-376-9185 akronartmuseum.org

Anderson Creative 331 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330-280-1606 www.andersoncreativestudio.com

Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.;

Wed.-Sat., noon-5 p.m.

Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

ACME Artists 332 4th St. NW, Canton, 330-452-2263 acmeartists.com Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Ages Tribal Arts Gallery 194 Myrtle Place, Akron, 330-434-1010 agestribalarts.com By appointment only.

Akrona Galleries 1765 W. Market St., Akron, 330-865-0909 akrona.com 30

akronlife

Akron Glass Works 106 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-5888 akronglassworks.com Tues.-Fri., noon-6 p.m.

Almond Tea Gallery/Studios of Jack Richard 2250 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-1575 fallsriversquaredistrict.com/ arts.asp

may 2011

Andrew McAllister Photography 30 N. High St., Akron, 330-687-6364 andrewfoto.com Art 101 Gallery 23 Public Square, Suite 11, Medina, 419-709-4747 art-101-gallery.com Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Art With Heart 843 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Suite DN #4, Akron, 330-666-5511 artwheart.com

Cari Miller’s Sunthing Special – “Turbulence” by Cari Miller Don Drumm – “Crow” block print by Joan Colbert

0DVWHU:RUNV 6HDVRQ $ %LUWKGD\ &HOHEUDWLRQ RI /LV]W 2FWREHU SP 0DUWLQD )LOMDN SLDQR

,Q 5HPHPEUDQFH &LYLO :DU 1RYHPEHU SP 0DWWKHZ %URZQ FRQGXFWLQJ :HVWZDWHU 3KRWR &KRUHRJUDSK\

3UHVVOHU 5HWXUQV

'HFHPEHU SP 0HQDKHP 3UHVVOHU SLDQR

:LQWHU 'UHDPV -DQXDU\ SP (PLO\ &RUQHOLXV YLROLQ 'DQ %R\H EDULWRQH

7KH 0DMHVW\ RI +D\GQ LQ 6RQJ )HEUXDU\ SP &DQWRQ 6\PSKRQ\ &KRUXV

$ 5RPDQWLF·V 'UHDP

0DUFK SP 1DWKDQ 2OVRQ YLROLQ 'DYLG 5HTXLUR FHOOR

6RXQG WKH 7UXPSHWV

$SULO SP 3HWHU 5LFKDUG &RQWH RUJDQ %OXHFRDWV 'UXP %XJOH &RUSV

6XEVFULSWLRQV RQ VDOH QRZ &DOO 0 ) DP SP ZZZ FDQWRQV\PSKRQ\ RUJ

32

akronlife

The BOX: An Artists of Rubber City (AoRC) Gallery 140 E. Market St., Akron, 330-865-7352

Canton Museum of Art 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton, 330-453-7666 cantonart.org Tues.-Wed., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Thurs.-Fri., 10

Butler Institute of American Art 524 Wick Ave., Youngstown, 330-743-1107 butlerart.com Canal Fulton Glassworks 215 Market St. West, Canal Fulton, 330-854-2966 www.canalfultonglassworks.com Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

May 7: Hot glass working class, by appointment, 10 a.m.-noon; hot glass demonstrations all afternoon; open house, noon-6 p.m. Learn about the history of glass production along the Tuscarawas River. Family friendly.

May 14: Hot glass working class, by appointment, 10 a.m.-noon; meet Katie Mullins, an Argentium jewelry maker, and see her works; hot glass production demonstrations, noon-5 p.m.

May 21: Hot glass working class, by appointment, 10 a.m.-noon; meet Amy Nichols, enamellist and glass bead artist, and see her works; hot glass production demonstrations, noon-5 p.m.

Canton Classic Car Museum Market Avenue at 6th St. SW, Canton, 330-455-3603 cantonclassiccar.org may 2011

a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m.

Cari Miller’s Sunthing Special 140 E. Market St., 3rd Floor, Akron, 330-208-5693 www.sunthingspecial.com Carolyn Lewis Gallery 140 E. Market St., 3rd floor, Akron, 330-929-4509 www.lewisstudio.com Chris Klassen 43 Furnace St., Akron, 330-761-1940 cklassendesigns.com Hours by appointment only.

Cleveland Museum of Art 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, 888-262-0033 clevelandart.org Tues., Thurs., Sat., Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wed., Fri., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Connie Bloom’s Quilting Arts Studio and Gallery 140 E. Market St., 3rd floor, Akron, 330-472-0161 conniebloom.com

Seiberling Gallery – “Blind” by Donna Drozda Massillon Museum – “Dawn of Despair” by Joseph Holston

Cuyahoga Valley Art Center 2131 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-8092 cvartcenter.org Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Emily Davis Gallery University of Akron Myers School of Art Folk Hall, 150 E. Exchange St., Akron, 330-972-6030 art.uakron.edu Mon., Tues., Fri., Sat., 10 a.m.-

Denis Conley Gallery 1936 W. Market St., Akron, 330-836-9044 denisconleygallery.com Don Drumm Studios & Gallery 437 Crouse St., Akron, 330-253-6268 dondrummstudios.com Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Elemental Arts 236 Walnut Ave. NE, Canton, 330-456-4874 Wed., Thurs., 11a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

34

akronlife

may 2011

5 p.m.; Wed.-Thurs., 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.

Gallery 143 4195 Massillon Rd., Uniontown, 330-896-8166 gallery143.net Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Great Lakes Science Center 601 Erieside Ave., Cleveland, 216-694-2000 glsc.org Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Harris-Stanton Gallery 2301 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-7600 harrisstantongallery.com Tues.-Fri, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Hazel Tree Interiors 143 W. Market St., Akron, 330-761-3100 hazeltreeinteriors.com Tue.–Fri., 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; additional hours available by appointment

Hoover Historical Center Walsh University 1875 E. Maple St., North Canton, 330-499-0287 walsh.edu/hooverhistoricalcent.htm Wed.-Sat., tours hourly 1-4 p.m.; morning reservations available Mon.-Fri. for groups of eight or more.

The Hoover Historical Center preserves the Hoover legacy in the Hoover family’s Victorian home. Ladies’ vintage fashions, family furnishings and elegant Victorian décor complement Hoover Company history. Experience interactives throughout, product displays, vintage advertising and war memorabilia. Awardwinning herb gardens grace the grounds.

Located inside Walsh University’s Hoover Park on original Hoover farmland Upcoming Exhibition: Through November, “Souvenirs of Yesteryear” — Hoover memorabilia from personal collections of former employees. Service awards, photographs and items bearing Hoover circle logo are among the mementos on display.

Hower House 60 Fir Hill, Akron, 330-972-6909 www3.uakron.edu/howerhse Icehouse Complex, Troy Myers Studio 129 N. Summit St., Akron, 330-379-1105 web.mac.com/troymyers3 Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography 520 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330-438-0030 josephsaxton.com Wed.-Sat., noon-5 p.m. www.akronlife.com

35

Studio 2091 – A work by Amy Mothersbaugh Roos Akrona – “Amber’s Photo” Stan Hywet – Photo of Virginia Seiberling, taken in 1919

Kathleen Lucas Walls, Jewelry Designer 43 Furnace St., Akron, 330-990-2188 kathleenlucaswalls.com

Kent State University Museum 515 Hilltop Dr., at the corner of S. Lincoln and E. Main, Kent, 330-672-3450 kent.edu/museum Wed., Fri., Sat., 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m.;

Katina Pastis Radwanski Studio/Gallery 140 E. Market St., Akron

Thurs., 10 a.m.-8:45 p.m.; Sun., noon-4:45 p.m.

Kiraly Fencing Academy Art & Antiques 304 N. Howard St., Akron, 330-762-4866 kiralyfencing.tripod.com/index.htm

Lawrence Churski Gallery 3850 Granger Rd., Bath, 330-666-8732 churskigallery.com Lazar’s Art Gallery of American Craft 2940 Woodlawn Ave. NW, Canton, 800-400-8351 lazarsartgallery.com The Little Art Gallery of the North Canton Library 185 N. Main St., North Canton 330-499-4712, ext. 312 northcantonlibrary.org/lag Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.6 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m.

(Closed Sunday, Memorial Day-Labor Day)

Magoun Pewter 43 Furnace St., Akron, 330-253-1987 magounpewter.com

7KURXJK 0D\

DFWRUVVXPPLW RUJ

0D\ 62/' 287

*UH\VWRQH +DOO 6 +LJK 6WUHHW $NURQ

Massillon Museum 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon, 330-833-4061 massillonmuseum.org Tues.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m.

McDonough Museum of Art Youngstown State University 525 Wick Ave., Youngstown, 330-941-1400

How does your garden grow?

Introducing the new Spring Floral Collection.

Tues.-Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m

6UL VM H RPUK Jewelry for Mother’s Day and Graduation

Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri - 10am to 6pm, Thurs - 10am to 8pm & Sat - 9am to 3pm

36

akronlife

may 2011

2492 Wedgewood Dr., Akron 330-733-8000 taylormadejewelry.com

Millworks Gallery 106 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-2007 millworksgallery.com Saturday, 6-9 p.m. or by appointment

Museum Of Contemporary Art 8501 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland, 216-421-8671 mocacleveland.org Tues., Thurs., Fri., Sat., Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wed., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Peninsula Art Academy 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula, 330-657-2248 peninsulaartacademy.com Pro Football Hall of Fame 2121 George Halas Dr. NW, Canton, 330-456-8207 profootballhof.com

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum 1100 Rock and Roll Blvd., Cleveland 216-781-7625 http://rockhall.com Open daily, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., until 9 p.m. on Wed.

Somethin g CROW ABOUT

THE WORKS OF JOAN COLBERT

APRIL 16 - MAY 14

TO

Red Light Galleries 111 N. Main St., Akron, 330-434-7625

CROUSE ST - AKRON : 330.253.6268 DON DRUMM STUDIOS & GALLERY 437 SHOP ONLINE: DONDRUMM.COM

Seiberling Gallery 1403 W. Hines Hill Rd., Peninsula (at CVNPA administrative office), 330-657-2909 www.cvnpa.org Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; weekends upon request

1615 W. Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44313

Taste of Akron

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens 714 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-836-5533 stanhywet.org April-Dec.: Tues.-Sun, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (Last admission 4:30 p.m.) Closed Mondays, except Memorial Day and Labor Day, when regular hours apply.

July 21 6 - 10 pm Sample Appetizers Entrees & Desserts for 1, 2, & 3 Tickets Tickets: $2.00 Each Over 25 Restaurants Live Entertainment Free Admission Cooking Contest & Much More!

Wine Tasting & Akron Arts Expo Silent Auction July 22 6 - 8:30 pm 150 Wines & Beers Hors d’oeuvres Silent Auction Live Entertainment Ballet Performance Tickets: $40.00 2 Tickets for $75.00

July 23 - 24 Sat.10 - 6 pm Sun.10 - 5 pm Free Admission 160 Artists Fine Arts & Crafts Live Entertainment Ballet Performance Children’s Area Free Parking Free Shuttle Service

www.AkronArtsExpo.org ~ 330-375-2836 www.akronlife.com

37

Standing Rock Cultural Arts 257 N. Water St., Kent, 330-673-4970 standingrock.net Thurs.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. or by appointment

Studio 2091/Mothersbaugh Roos 2091 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-962-4292 studio2091.com Wed.-Fri., 4-8 p.m.; Sat., 1-6 p.m.

Summit Artspace Gallery 140 E. Market St., Akron, 330-376-8480 summitartspace.org Thurs.-Sat., noon-5 p.m. during exhibitions

Summit Artspace – For the show titled, “Beyond Newsprint,”

by Kathy Hagedorn

Terry Klausman Studio and Gallery 140 E. Market St., Akron, 330-524-3729

todd v – Does That Line Work

todd v 30 N. High St., Akron toddv.com

historic furnishings•corporate gatherings•eclectic treasures••decorative arts••

HOWER HOUSE 60 FIR HILL • AKRON, OHIO

Help us celebrate our 140th anniversary...

•Summer Exhibit:

Industry loves Company July 6 - October 15, 2011 •Carriage House & restored vehicle dedication festivities: Friday, July 15 & Sunday, July 17 ( visit website for event details )

Call Hower House for details or visit us on the web

330-972-6909

www.uakron.edu/howerhse

arts•milestone celebrations•guided tours•exhibits•museum shop••events•

38

Celebrating 140 years of Victorian splendor...

akronlife

may 2011

events•historic furnishings•corporate gatherings•eclectic treasures••decorative

•decorative arts•milestone celebrations•guided tours•exhibits•museum shop•• The University of Akron

Urban Eats - A Pop Art Café 51 E. Market St., Akron, 330-310-7135 urbaneatsmusica.com We Gallery 20 N. High St., Akron, 330-252-0988 thewegallery.com Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

What a Great Hat! 2855 W. Market St., Suite 202, Fairlawn, 330-592-2295 whatagreathat.com Hours by appointment only.

William McKinley Presidential Library & Museum 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton, 330-455-7043 mckinleymuseum.org Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.

Zeber-Martell Studio & Gallery 43 Furnace St., Akron, 330-253-3808 zeber-martell.com

A project of the

Check out our monthly arts & entertainment calendar.

Where people meet, greet & create!

Plus the Artists of Rubber City BOX Gallery and the studios of: Akron Society of Artists, Cari Miller, Carolyn E. Lewis, Connie Bloom, Katina Pastis Radwanski & Terrence Klausman

140 E. Market Street, Akron - SummitArtspace.org

www.akronlife.com

39

The Writing on the Wall

40

akronlife

may 2011

by Rodney Wilson

photographs by William L. Teckmyer III and Shane Wynn

Graffiti and signature tags are only a small part of the evolving set of urban street art forms. Though still a subject of controversy, street artists are slowly gaining acceptance — causing (some) cities to reexamine what art is acceptable and where.

A handful of years ago, my wife and I bought our first home in a Greater Cincinnati neighborhood that one wouldn’t be incorrect describing as “the ghetto.” The house was small, the neighbors suspect, but we were elated homeowners. How a defining characteristic of our new mailing address eluded us until ink on the last form had dried and keys rested in our palms is still a mystery to me.

Not one block from our property, a curving train track sliced through our decrepit burg, sending up a thunderous cacophony of screeching metal and shaking the foundation of our little house. Drive times were highly unpredictable — a 10-minute dash to the store could easily be sidelined by a crawling locomotive. We’d curse in vain as hulking cars crept past our parked car.

Then we began paying attention to the rolling tanks — in addition to the cryptic codes and identifiers officially applied to the black and green exteriors, adornments of various colors and size began to draw our eyes. It was graffiti, of course, and we soon came to consider ourselves amateur art critics as we watched spraycan compositions roll by on temporary, makeshift canvases.

“Check that out,” I’d comment.

“That’s a good one,” she’d reply.

www.akronlife.com

41

“To me, it’s much more than the act of painting something. It’s a mind set, a way of life.”

Graffiti is ubiquitous in the world around us, such a common sight that, for many of us, it blends into the urban landscape of modern America.

For all the brash, colorful clamour of a graffiti-covered wall, it’s easily glanced and summarily dismissed as visual pollution, just another sign of urban decay.

While graffiti won’t likely cease plaguing city managers intent on maintaining population numbers and attracting new businesses, many people never before interested in the aesthetics of spray

42

akronlife

paint on a brick wall are now taking the time to give a tagged wall a second glance. “That’s a good one,” they might even say.

This heightened interest in the left-of-legal art form is due in large part to last year’s awardwinning and Academy Awardnominated documentary, “Exit Through the Gift Shop,” an enthralling look at a form of graffiti known as “street art” (street art is more about publicly disseminating an artist’s ideas, rather than promoting the alias of the artist). Featuring celebrity artists Shephard Fairey and the film’s director, the mysterious (and very anonymous) Banksy, the documentary offered viewers a new perspective on artwork that exists not within the walls of traditional galleries, but outside and on walls.

While our town isn’t exactly New York City or Los Angeles, two

may 2011

hubs for street-level art, Akron has plenty of temporary treasures for observers seeking alternative aesthetic experiences. Lack of metropolitan excitement is, in fact, a contributing factor in Akron’s emerging graffiti scene.

“For all the lack of ‘vibrant active night life’ associated with more urban centers, there’s a lot of free time here,” says Arise, an area artist who has produced graffiti in and around Akron. “Creative people will always find a creative way to occupy their time.

Additionally, all the industry brings freight trains, and all the abandoned industry turns into more accessible locations to paint.

It’s a very conducive habitat for graffiti, and the area has a surprising amount of history.”

For the uninitiated, the illicit nature of graffiti and street art might take Akron’s tagged underand overpasses as a sign of further

nefarious activity — a growing population of outlaws lurking under cover of night, hellbent on snatching purses from little old ladies and defacing personal property willy-nilly. The truth, however, is that graffiti’s appeal spreads far wider than any supposed criminal underbelly.

“If asked 10 years ago, I would be able to pinpoint the ‘graffiti type,’ ” says an Akron artist who identifies himself by the handle BEERS. “Nowadays, with the Internet, it could be any and everyone. I’ve seen older writers in their 40s go walk their dog at night and get a few tags.

You see kids still in school sneak out of their parents’ house and spend the whole night painting.

Successful business types, general labor/ trade worker types, college students, artist types — no joke, in this day and age, it could be anyone.”

Losing sleep, evading authorities, scaling structures to dangerous heights, eluding violent aggressors — outside of occasional daydreams of comic book vigilanteism, the majority of us would go to great lengths to avoid even one of these challenges. For graffiti artists, however, danger is big part of “writing’s” appeal.

“I’ve got chased, caught, got away, close calls, fights, met some of the most interesting people, and made some of the best friends I have from doing graffiti,” says BEERS, adding that his years as a graffiti artist have presented some unexpected opportunities as well. “I’ve taught graffiti to little kids at the library, I’ve done community service, paid fines, got paid, got laid, all because of graffiti. To me, it’s much more than the act of painting something. It’s a mind set, a way of life.”

Arise echoes the notion that writing presents an attractive lifestyle, citing travel as one incentive keeping him interested after almost a decade.

“I’ve been more random places and met more weirdos, just to write my name on stuff,” he says. “It’s weird to think of compulsive scribbling as a lifestyle, but if you’re willing to call it that, the lifestyle leads to more experiences every day than what most people will experience their whole lives. The closest thing I could compare it to would be to be in a nationally touring band, but with no monetary incentive — and playing concerts isn’t illegal.”

www.akronlife.com

43

44

akronlife

may 2011

“No joke, in this day and age, it could be anyone.”

www.akronlife.com

45

Gra ffiti v s. Stre et Art: What’s the Di ffe re n ce ?

Why is Banksy called a “street artist” instead of a “graffiti writer?”

“Graffiti,” as the term is used by those who write it, is the application of one’s alias to the surface of a publiclydisplayed piece of property, usually using spraypaint or markers. The goal of graffiti, whether a full wall piece or a quick Sharpie tag, is personal promotion of the writer’s alias, a notion stemming from New York subway culture that accompanied the dawn of hip hop.

“Exit Through the Gift Shop” offered filmgoers a glimpse at a few big-name street artists making inroads into the traditional art world with hugely successful gallery shows. One wonders, if the next Banksy were scribbling his or her name on an Akron wall right now, what level of acceptance would the local art world extend?

“I’m strongly in favor of the movement of street artists into the art world because the work will get wider circulation and be preserved as time passes,” says Dr. Mitchell Kahan, director and CEO of the Akron Art Museum. Kahan urges artists to bring their work indoors, as he feels the illegality of graffiti supercedes any aesthetic appeal the art form holds. “The careers of Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, from bad boys to art stars, suggests there’s plenty of room for the street aesthetic to move into galleries. The art world is a form of capitalism that turns just about all visual expression into a commodity.”

46

akronlife

may 2011

“Graffiti’s acceptance in gallery spaces — that’s not nearly as prevalent as the acceptance of street art,” says Arise, who concedes that overlap between the two realms makes it easy for many artists to exist under both umbrella terms.

While both Arise and BEERS work exclusively in graffiti, they’re both acquainted with artists who’ve found success as street artists. In fact, both met Shepard Fairey at the artist’s 2002 show at Cleveland’s 1300 Club and speak highly of him.

“Street art often ‘flips’ established cultural imagery, so it’s very accessible to the average viewer,” says Arise, acknowledging street art’s current popularity in the art world. “Pretend you’re a curator in the ‘traditional art world.’ Are you going to hang a show of my series of life-size nude self-portraits that ain’t no one want to see never, or some clever one-liner of a dude throwing flowers instead of Molotov cocktail, so people giggle and then buy a print of it?

Likewise, if you’re an artist, spraypainting some found objects is a very quick and attractive style to work in, with a lot higher ceilings financially, than trying to sell 10-foot-wide, oil-painted history paintings in a coffee shop. So while I’m not on that hustle at all, I do indeed know people that are pursuing those dollars. And you can’t blame them.”

“Street art” differs from this popular understanding of graffiti in that it’s less concerned with selfpromotion than it is with publicly disseminating an artist’s ideas. Street artists essentially treat public areas as both canvas and gallery.

Street artists will often use spray paint and markers, but they may also involve stencils, wheat paste posters and precreated signage.

So Banksy is a street artist because his (her? their?) primary goal isn’t to write “Banksy” on every surface possible but, rather, to create concept-driven pieces of art on every possible surface.

Of course, if caught, Banksy’s “street artist” tag won’t save him from vandalism charges.

“I’m strongly in favor of the movement of street artists into the art world because the work will get wider circulation and be preserved as time passes.”

– Dr. Mitchell Kahan, director and CEO, Akron Art Museum

After you’ve digested as much Akron graffiti as you can track down, head south to Canton for a look at some street art of a different stripe. A great place to start is Rust Belt, an art space on 4th St. NE, which features a fully-painted wall by local artist Steve Ehret. Ehret’s wall piece was unsanctioned and unapproved, painted one summer under the notion that it’s “easier to beg for forgiveness than ask for permission,” but it drew praise rather than ire from the city.

“Surprisingly, I didn’t get in trouble for it,” says Ehret. “People were actually somewhat excited about it.”

Canton’s acceptance of public art holds hope for some, including a nameless Canton street artist who asked to remain anonymous.

“I think giving people something different to look at on their way to or from work is amazing. The culture has been growing for a long time, and people are only getting more talented as the years go by,” he says, adding that public acceptance often hinges on the nature of the work. “It depends very much on what the city or town has seen as far as ‘graffiti.’ If it’s been mostly positive, then I would understand that the town officials might be a little more accepting of the work.

“I think street art and graffiti can be very positive as long as there’s some level of respect. It’s hard to define respect, though, when what you’re doing is illegal. I think a lot of people are now accepting graffiti as a legit art form, as it should be. It’s expression, no matter how you put it.”

Writer Rodney Wilson spends his days serving coffee at his Kent, OH, coffee shop, evenings wrangling two rambunctious daughters and nights writing a novel that refuses to end. He’s also a musician with a nasty case of tinnitus.

Comments? E-mail them to editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com. www.akronlife.com

47

9

Things (Most) Locals Don’t Know About Akron

From Rubber City’s ties to rubbers (and Vera Wang) to being a safe haven for refugees escaping persecution, there’s a lot more to Akron than meets the eye.

by Karen Edwards

48

akronlife

may 2011

A

kron, how I hate to love you, but when I think about your rustbelt smile and shaggy demeanor, my heart just skips a beat.

It’s easy to complain about Akron (and NE Ohio!) but when it comes right down to it, Akron is an eclectic city with a great big heart that grew from humble beginnings into a major municipality.

Just how much do you know about Akron and its contributions? We’re all familiar with the obvious and the infamous, but there’s a whole lot more, if you know where to look.

With that in mind, I present to you, nine things most locals don’t know about Akron.

1. Who the Devil Owns This Grass?

We’ve all heard the term “devil’s strip,” but what does it mean? I didn’t learn until my sophomore year of college that not everyone uses this term for the thin strip of grass that separates the sidewalk from the street. According to Joan Hall, director of the American Dictionary of Regionalisms, “devil’s strip” is only used in Northern Summit County, Ohio.

Apparently (so the story goes), when the city was putting in sidewalks, the strip of grass between the sidewalk and street was to be owned by the city — but taxed to and cared for by the homeowner.

This announcement incited some

anger from the masses, who were left pondering: “If it’s not the city’s strip, and it’s not the homeowner’s strip, whose strip is it?”

Because the city can plant trees or dig up the strip without permission from the resident who pays tax on the land, the “devil” is likely derived from the area being a noman’s land between public and private property — or a vague reference to government itself.

FYI: The “devil’s strip” is known elsewhere as a tree lawn, verge, sidewalk buffer, nature strip, tree belt, utility strip, planting strip or city grass.

2. Vera Wang

Bridal Couture Made in Akron

Flying under the radar in a warehouse space in downtown Akron is Vera Wang Luxe, the high-end division of New York-based Vera Wang Bridal House Ltd. Vera Wang and Nancy Haber — VP of Vera Wang Luxe and former children’s dress designer — opened the division in Akron in 1995 and ran it out of Haber’s home in West Akron until 1996. “Fifteen years ago, we had three people in my basement,” says Haber.

The current space is 14,000 square feet, with much of it taken up by gowns. “They have to be spread out on these huge, long tables because the trains are so long,” says Haber, explaining that the Luxe division of Vera Wang Bridal is the most expensive of the three divisions and features the most handwork and lace.

“The gowns are much more complicated technically,” says Haber. “It takes on average 60 hours per dress, but sometimes longer — like the 380 hours we put into the beaded dress we made for Billy Crystal’s daughter.”

And while we’re name dropping … “I did Ivanka Trump’s dress last year, and I did the dress for the girl who married one of the Jonas Brothers,” says Haber. “Vera did the dress for Chelsea Clinton, and it was a made-to-order version of one of the styles we manufacture here.”

The Akron division employs about 40 people, whom Haber recruits from Akron organizations like The Job Center and International Institute. Cutters and seamstresses at Luxe have come from Russia, Afghanistan, Bosnia, Korea, Vietnam, Yugoslavia and the United States; currently, more than half are from Laos.

“They’re expert seamstresses, but we retrain every single person who works for us from the beginning. It’s a special kind of work since it’s a bridal gown,” says Haber. “These are people who are all very smart and artistic, but because of their English, were having limitations in terms of work they could do. Now here they are, getting paid very well, earning very good benefits and having the joy of doing something really beautiful.”

But don’t show up to the warehouse with your maid of honor and hard-earned cash — the Akron division isn’t open to the public.

The gowns are manufactured in this facility, but are sold in the Madison Avenue showroom in New York City, where they retail for $5,500 to $12,000. www.akronlife.com

49

3. N.E.R.D.S. Are Us!

Michael Buckley, New York Times best-selling children’s book author (Sisters Grimm and N.E.R.D.S.) and cartoon creator (Robotomy) is from Akron. In fact, he’s one of my oldschool peeps. We went to Garfield High School together, still make each other laugh and generally harass each other about our gray hairs.

After graduating college in 1996, he moved to New York City to be an intern on the “Late Show with David Letterman.”

To pay the rent, he also worked as a pasta maker, hamburger flipper, personal assistant, stand-up comic and singer in a punk rock band (not all at the same time, of course). His parents worried that he might be shiftless, but he assured them he was actually acquiring valuable life experience.

Turns out, he was. Eventually, he found work in television production and has developed programming for MTV, MTV Animation, Discovery Networks and Klasky Csupo (producers of Nickelodeon’s “Rugrats”). The Sisters Grimm series was Buckley’s first venture into the world of children’s book writing.

Buckley now lives in New York City with his wife Alison — but is still an Akronite at heart.

4.

Behold the

Ice Cream Cone!

According to the Library of Congress, the ice cream cone was invented on July 23, 1904, at the St. Louis World’s Fair by Akronites/concessionaires Charles and Frank Menches.

The story goes that Charles was attempting to make waffle cups to hold ice cream but was unable to shape them before the waffle became hard. Charles got an idea when he saw Frank using a sailor’s fid, a conical tool used to splice thick tent ropes.

Charles used the fid to roll up his waffles directly on the griddle — and the ice cream cone was born.

Charles and Frank also claimed to have invented the hamburger at the 1885 Erie County Fair in Hamburg, NY (although this claim doesn’t go undisputed). And at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago, Charles and Frank sold caramel-coated peanuts and popcorn with a prize in the pack called Gee-Whiz — the supposed predecessor to Cracker Jack; Frito Lay, however, credits F.W. Rueckheim and Brother with creating the snack at the 1893 event.

5. Santa Claus Is a Local

Santa may now reside at the North Pole, but it turns out that he’s originally from Akron. Oh … and he’s blue! During winter 2001-02, an archaeological team led by Brian Graham, president of the American Toy and Marble Museum, unearthed a tiny ceramic figurine. “It was a curious little man with a sweet face and long white beard, wearing a blue hooded coat,” says Graham. When thoroughly cleaned and examined, they discovered the little fellow was Santa. The real Santa. According to Graham, the figurine was manufactured in the mid-1890s, making it the first and most likely oldest three-dimensional figurine of Santa. Santa is now in a display case at the museum at Lock 3 Park.

6. Burma Refugees Resettled in Akron Ever wondered about your North Hill neighbors? I see them walking everywhere, wearing the most beautiful clothing. They’re the Karen (pronounced: cor-IN) people of Burma — many of whom fled to refugee camps in Thailand to escape cultural persecution and atrocities committed by the military regime that had taken over their country.

50

akronlife

may 2011

According to Sunday Moo, chairperson of Karen Community of Akron Inc., the International Institute has been resettling Karen families (more than 500 to date) here in Akron since 2006. And most heads of household have been able to find employment and prosper. They work hard to maintain their traditional cultural customs (many of the women still weave their own clothing), while, at the same time, working to assimilate.

8. The

Earth Shook for Judy Resnick

7. Rubber City’s Ties to Rubbers

By 1905, Akron native John R. Gammeter was head of B.F. Goodrich’s experimental department. Among his inventions were a machine that manufactured inner tubes for bicycle tires and the first winding machine for the modern rubber-thread golf ball. He also found a way to mass-produce rubber bands.

During his career, Gammeter was responsible for more than 300 inventions, including one that probably made him the most money but got him the least amount of publicity in his day: an improved latex condom — for which he’s been dubbed, “The King of the Condom.”

The world thanks you, Mr. Gammeter.

We all know that Akronite Judy Resnick was killed when the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded on Jan. 28, 1986. What you may not know is that on Jan. 31, 1986 — during the memorial service — an earthquake shook Akron. (Most Akronites who felt it assumed the tremble was caused by the Air Force jets flying overhead during the service.)

Though earthquakes aren’t that uncommon in Northeastern Ohio (more than 200 of at least a 2.0 magnitude have occurred since 1776), what is a bit strange is that the strongest one ever recorded here was the Jan. 31, 1986 quake — which measured 5.0 on the Richter Scale.

Special thanks to Larry Pentecost, owner of Northeast Ohio Tours and Conventions, for sharing his knowledge on everything Akron.

Comments?

E-mail them to editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com.

9. “Pretty Boy” Floyd Captured Akron Charles Arthur “Pretty Boy” Floyd was a gangster famous for a series of daring bank robberies, shootouts and escapes at the height of the Great Depression. According to legend, he routinely sprinkled cash from his car window as he and his gang sped away from the scene of their crimes, and he occasionally attended church, even while on the run. Still, he was a cold-blooded killer who carried a .45 automatic and filed a notch in his pocket-watch for everyone he killed.

But on March 8, 1930, his luck soured in Akron, when two of his gang members had a shoot out with Akron police. The police captured one of the gang members, and that afternoon, Akron-area detectives broke down the front door of the gang’s hideout and captured three outlaws, including Pretty Boy. Floyd was tried, convicted and sentenced to 15 years for his Ohio robbery spree. En route to the Ohio Penitentiary, Floyd talked his guards into uncuffing him so he could go to the bathroom, where he jumped out of the train window near Kenton, Ohio. (Floyd was later gunned down by FBI agents in a cornfield in East Liverpool.) www.akronlife.com

51

education

by Alicia Blessing

Career Track Fast Track

/ These ‘high demand’ fields of study are expected to play a major role in NEO’s economic future — offering tremendous potential for students. /

>>

Navigating your future is never an easy task. With so many options in today’s progressively global economy, how do college-bound students decide what major and career path to pursue? As the U.S. continues to recover from the latest economic downturn, students and parents alike want to know what fields of study will provide the most opportunities in the coming years.

As Northeast Ohio has made significant strides in diversifying its economy, job opportunities across a number of diverse disciplines have emerged — giving students a wide selection of majors to choose from that will also provide a base for long-term success.

With a $140 billion economy and an expansive higher education system, Northeast Ohio offers innumerable opportunities for tomorrow’s graduates. Even leading career site Monster.com agrees. The job-matching powerhouse released a report in early 2011 revealing the top markets for job seekers, and Northeast Ohio came in near the top of the list. Based on the relative abundance of open positions, Cleveland and Northeast Ohio made the number seven slot, signaling that there are, indeed, numerous opportunities available throughout the region.

Monster.com’s report also showed that the hottest jobs in these markets fell largely in the healthcare and information technology industries — industries in which Northeast Ohio excels.

While many factors come into play when choosing a course of study, students should consider how their major of choice will lead them down a successful career path. As Northeast Ohio grows in areas such as healthcare, IT, advanced energy, manufacturing and flexible electronics, students should consider pursuing a degree in these high-demand fields, which are expected to play a major role in Northeast Ohio’s economic future.

One of the fastest growing industries in Northeast Ohio is the healthcare sector.

Employing more than 480,000 workers 52

akronlife

throughout the region, the healthcare and biomedical field is likely to play an even larger role in the region’s ongoing success. With more than 600 medical-related organizations located in Northeast Ohio, the healthcare industry offers tremendous potential for students.

Supported by a number of worldrenowned organizations such as the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals and the Summa Health System, as well as a vast array of higher education institutions, Northeast Ohio has emerged as a global leader in the biomedical field. Given the healthcare sector’s breadth and depth across the region, there are numerous avenues students can pursue to start a career in the healthcare industry.

For those considering a career in medicine, Northeast Ohio boasts establishments that are leading the medical world in innovation and pioneering techniques. In fact, Northeast Ohio is home to some 9,000 physicians. With such a large number of nationally recognized health systems residing in our 16-county footprint, the need for world-class physicians will continue to grow in the decades to come.

For those thinking of going into the medical field, Case Western Reserve University’s School of Medicine is consistently ranked as one of the top medical schools in the nation and is graduating physicians that could one day unearth the next medical breakthrough. Our region is also fortunate to be home to another medical school, the Northeast Ohio Colleges University of Medicine and Pharmacy, one of the largest B.S./M.D. programs in the country.

While everyone may not dream of becoming a physician, there are still a number of ways to pursue a career in Northeast Ohio’s healthcare sector. Disciplines such as polymer engineering and biomaterials are revolutionizing the biomedical field by bringing medical innovations to fruition. Akron, a hub for polymer may 2011

The University of Akron

research and innovation, is a leading example of the opportunities available. With a successful track record of growing biomedical companies, Northeast Ohio is leveraging its polymer expertise and building a robust workforce.

The University of Akron’s College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering offers courses of study in biomaterials and bio systems, giving students the foundation they need to start a career at one of the many biomedical companies being formed throughout the region.

Another major growth area in Northeast Ohio’s healthcare industry is medical manufacturing.

Given the high concentration of hospitals and medical-related organizations in the region, the bioscience sector is projected to grow at 12 percent a year. Those looking to combine their interests in healthcare and manufacturing can pursue opportunities related to medical device manufacturing and pharmaceutical drug manufacturing.

While the healthcare industry is growing rapidly, so too is Northeast Ohio’s advanced energy sector. Over the last several years, the term “go green” has made its way into our everyday lives and introduced new opportunities for students. How is Northeast Ohio “going green,” and what does that mean for students preparing to enter the workforce? For Northeast Ohio, the green movement has led to the development of a growing cleantech industry. Cleantech refers to new forms of energy creation such as wind energy, solar pan-

els and fuel cells. Traditional industries such as steel, rubber, coatings and electronic controls serve as the basis for the cleantech sector and are projected to grow by 20 percent over the next five years.

Students with an interest in the green movement should consider pursuing a degree in the cleantech field, which shows signs of significant growth in the coming years. In fact, Ohio boasts the sixth highest concentration of clean energy companies in the nation with 2,513 businesses located in the state. Additionally, Ohio employs 35,267 workers in an advanced energy industry, making Ohio fourth in the nation in the number of clean energy jobs.

As Northeast Ohio builds its advanced energy cluster, cleantech-related jobs will continue to grow in demand, and it’s likely that degrees related to fuel cell manufacturing and wind energy development will become more popular. Knowing this, many colleges and universities across the region have already instituted advanced energy-related programs. For example, Stark State Community College developed its Fuel Cell Prototyping Center, while Lorain County Community College launched a new major focused entirely on wind turbine development.

As Northeast Ohio establishes itself as a healthcare and advanced energy hub, it remains dependent on its manufacturing heritage — another high-growth sector in Northeast Ohio.

Wrongly perceived as a “dying” industry, manufacturing actually represents a field with tremendous opportunity. In fact, Northeast Ohio added 4,900 manufacturing jobs in 2010 alone.

As manufacturing helped bring Northeast Ohio to economic greatness in the 20th century, it’s also enabling the region to compete in the global economy of the new millennium. While many hold a stereotypical view of manufacturing, it remains the base for growth as Northeast Ohio expands into new, emerging fields like the biomedical and advanced energy sectors.

Advanced degrees in medical device manufacturing, fuel cell development, wind energy and aerospace all involve manufacturing.

Flexible electronics, a new science and manufacturing sector to emerge in Northeast Ohio, also involves manufacturing at its core. While still new, flexible electronics refers to devices such as electronic writing tablets, switchable eyewear, printed batteries and medical implants. Experts predict the global flexible electronics market to grow to $250 billion by 2025. Rooted in the invention of liquid crystal technology, which was pioneered at Kent State University, flexible electronics is on track to 54

akronlife

may 2011

become a major industry and represents an exciting career path to pursue.

Canton Country Day School

Together, these growing industries represent the vibrant future of Northeast Ohio’s economy, with each of these sectors lending themselves to a variety of career paths and options.

While planning for your future can seem daunting, young adults getting ready for college and their careers should feel relieved knowing they have an array of options — and have a better understanding now of what it takes to prepare for Northeast Ohio’s growing economy.

Northeast Ohio is not only growing and strengthening its economy, it’s diversifying it as well. In doing this, a number of divergent sectors have emerged, creating “high demand” fields of study. Over the next decade and beyond, these areas will represent some of the hottest fields for finding a job — right here at home. / Writer Alicia Blessing is a Northeast Ohio native and marketing professional working to promote our great region at the Cleveland Plus Marketing Alliance.

Comments? E-mail them to editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com.

Empowering Students

for Success in the 21st Century through Canton Country Day’s “One to One” laptop program for every child in grades four through eight

Preschool through Grade Eight 3000 Demington Avenue NW / Canton, OH 44718 / 330-453-8279

www.cantoncountryday.org

www.akronlife.com

55

promotional editorial

Baldwin-Wallace College

education and athletic training

Primary research in all

are highly-regarded. The

disciplines is conducted

Center for Innovation and

through the Faculty-Student

Growth works to develop

Collaboration program. Students

an entrepreneurial spirit

work with faculty mentors to

across all College programs

discover the genetic basis

and the undergraduate-only

of multiple sclerosis. They

Conservatory of Music is

measure the influence of

internationally renowned.

religious affiliation on political

A faculty dedicated to teaching is the heart of the BaldwinWallace education. Small class

about the Holocaust.

B-W students participate in

between students and their

more than 100 campus groups

instructors, and B-W professors

and organizations, from Greek

take an interest in a student’s

life to the marching band to the

progress, both in and out of the

campus radio station, WBWC.

classroom.

They contribute thousands of

daily basis at Baldwin-Wallace.

Arts Management students collaborate with Cleveland’s

hours each year to community outreach programs. And they are perennial winners in 21 NCAA Division III varsity sports for both men and women.

aldwin-Wallace College has been described as a “best value”

PlayhouseSquare to market

in higher education, not only because it is consistently

professional theatre to young

Add a tree-lined suburban

ranked among the top colleges in the Midwest, but

adults. Chemistry students

campus that is just 20

because its affordable, innovative programs produce accomplished

partner with working chemists

minutes from downtown

graduates.

on projects for Sherwin-Williams.

Cleveland and all of the arts,

Sports Management majors

business, educational and

intern with the Indians and

recreational resources of a

the Cavaliers. Other students

major metropolitan center,

work with local communities

and it becomes evident why

to develop a workable plan for

students, parents, educators

regionalizing fire and safety

and businesses alike have their

services. Non-verbal children

eye on Baldwin-Wallace.

Every B-W student develops a personal Action Plan that integrates academic studies with experiential learning and co-curricular activities to provide a truly customized education. An emphasis on the traditional liberal arts gives B-W grads the flexible skills in critical thinking, communication and problem-solving that are necessary in an increasingly global society.

B-W is the first Ohio college to offer an undergraduate major in sustainability. Its programs in neuroscience, music theatre,

56

a multi-media theatrical event

sizes encourage interaction

Theory is put into practice on a

B

engagement or help to develop

akronlife

may 2011

are taught to communicate by undergraduate students in the campus Speech Clinic.

promotional editorial

University of Akron University of Akron‚ College of Business Adminstration unveils new flexible mBA program.

A

kron, Ohio, April 8, 2011: The University of Akron‚ College of Business Administration (CBA) has introduced several new changes to its Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs, including a new Flexible MBA. Available in Fall 2011, the revised MBA will be offered as the Flexible MBA on the Akron campus and as the Saturday MBA at Wayne College in Orrville and the Medina County University Center (MCUC) in Medina.

The changes to the MBA program are intended to: •

Increase the relevancy of the curriculum;

•

Attract more students with work experience and undergraduate backgrounds in non-business disciplines; and

•

Allow students to personalize their MBA concentration depending upon their interests and career plans.

“We are excited to offer these enhancements to our excellent MBA programs,” said Dr. Ravi Krovi, dean of the College of Business Administration. “Our program is also flexible and has been designed to meet the needs of the evening student. In addition to quality instruction and flexibility, our MBA program also offers students the opportunity to interact 58

akronlife

may 2011

with the best and brightest from Northeast Ohio and beyond. In addition, the average GMAT score of students in our part-time program is one of the highest in Ohio. Our MBA program continues to have a good reputation, our graduates are highly sought after and are well placed in organizations across the country.”

Students taking the Saturday MBA at Wayne College and MCUC will take courses taught by full-time UA MBA faculty using distance-learning technologies at both campuses every other Saturday for two years.

The in-class experiences will be supplemented and enhanced with online technology.

“A cohort of students will attend classes together over the two-year period. This format provides cohesion and a team environment conducive to learning and builds a spirit of cooperation,” Krovi said.

Program features include: •

The instructors are full-time UA faculty;

•

A cohort of students will take three courses each semester, complete a team project and graduate together;

•

An action-based live team project is required;

•

Students complete the program in six semesters, including summers;

•

Classes meet two Saturdays each month from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.;

•

Format includes distancelearning and web-based technology;

•

All students pursue the interdisciplinary concentration of three elective courses; and

•

Lunch is provided and during lunch a panel of business executives will be available to speak to students in an informal question-and-answer session.

“Students who are currently enrolled in the MBA program have the option to finish with the old curriculum or convert to the new MBA program,” Krovi said. Many courses offered under the old concentrations will no longer be available, but CBA has developed a list of courses that students may take as substitutes for the discontinued courses.

“This is an exciting time for students to enroll or continue their education at the College of Business Administration,” Krovi said. “Our programs emphasize rigor and key competencies that are essential in the global workforce. These coupled with co-curricular experiences and a strong relationship with the business community provides real value to our students.”

life@50+

by Abby Cymerman

Stuck in the Middle

/ In the 1990s, the term

‘sandwich generation’ described latch-key kids. These days, the phrase has a whole new meaning. /

>> And according to the U.S. Census Bureau,

Today’s “Sandwich >> Generation” is a group of adults who care for aging parents while raising their own children — an endeavor that leaves many frustrated, exhausted and hesitant to have a life of their own since both the older and younger generations depend on them.

the number of 65 or older Americans will double by the year 2030 — to more than 70 million — meaning the Sandwich Generation will also continue to grow its numbers.

DeLores Pressley and Dr. Merle Griff co-host WHBC radio show, “Wriggling in the Middle,” which focuses on the dilemmas of the Sandwich Generation — and their responsibility of caring for multiple generations.

Pressley, a motivational speaker, personal power expert and coach, and Griff, a gerontologist and founder of SarahCare Adult Day Centers, both advise that Sandwich Gens maintain their sense of balance and well-being.

How can Sandwich Gens care for their family and still have a life? Pressley says they need to find ways to re-energize their soul.

“Having a life doesn’t mean you need to spend an hour a day doing something for yourself, and that if you don’t have an hour, then the day is wasted for you,” she says. “Sometimes, you’ll only have 15 minutes, but if those 15 minutes are powerful, the result can be the same.”

Guests on the radio show often suggest stress busters that can be done in your car while waiting at the drive-thru or picking up your child from basketball practice, and such things as walk-

“We have learned to manage multiple priorities and multitasking, but now the issues of time management and having to be very organized plays a critical role in our lives,” says Griff.

Sandwiched & Stressed The graying of America hit a new level in January 2011 — as the first of the nation’s 77 million Baby Boomers turned 65. And many of these Boomers, rather than planning for a life of leisure, are struggling to balance the demands of a full-time job, raising a family and caring for a family member.

A recent study from Humana shows how these “sandwich boomers” — those caring for their own children and their parents — are feeling the pressure.

80

% of Boomers feel moderate to high

68

% of Boomers

46 46 % of

Boomers

% of Boomers

43

% of Boomers

have missed work or left

worry about caregiving

have given up social

have skipped a

care or support they’re giving to

early due to caregiving

affecting their job.

activities.

vacation.

children, spouses and/or parents.

duties.

levels of stress related to the

60

akronlife

may 2011

The Akron Art Museum. Akron-Summit County Public Library. Coffee shops.

Galleries. And an array of restaurants.

All just steps away from the recently renovated United Building, located at the corner of Market and Main. This eight-story historic structure is the centerpiece of the revived north end. A premiere location for visibility, it’s also easily accessible from I-77, as well as all major interstates.

• Up to 50,000 square feet • Open floor for space planning flexibility • State-of-the-art communication capabilities • Room for near-term growth and future expansion • Convenient parking in recently constructed city deck • Within walking distance of central business district, restaurants, coffee shops and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The United Building Today’s Address for Commerce, Culture and Art

Premier retirement

community in Medina.

We welcome ALL seniors to our beautiful community!

• relaxed lifestyle

• cultural outings

• diverse activities

• convenient location

Leasing Opportunities Now Available

Independent Villa Homes & Apartments Assisted Living Apartments

Call Tony Troppe at (330) 535-3218 or email at tnt_everettgrp@yahoo.com 1 South Main Street • Akron, Ohio 44308

www.1akron.com

Worry Less. Laugh Often. Live Well.

www.wrmcohio.org 4931 Nettleton Rd., Medina, OH // 1-866-433-1514 (conveniently located near I-71 & Rt. 18)

Health Care Center On-Campus Rehab www.akronlife.com

61

ing outside your home and breathing deeply or simply taking a moment to hold hands with your spouse or significant other.

When Dr. Griff was caring for her mother, she loved getting a massage because she felt like someone was taking care of her — and it allowed her to refuel and return to her caregiving responsibilities.

“Don’t wait until you’re exhausted and in crisis,” she says.

Pressley, on the other hand, would schedule a “Girls’ Day Out” with her friends while she was caring for her parents.

“It was fun for me and allowed me to remove myself momentarily from the situation of taking care of very ill parents,” she says. “I would also read motivational books.”

These co-hosts suggest that caregivers make a list of activities that are meaningful to them but — they emphasize — these activities should be divided between those that can be done if you only have five or 10 minutes, an hour or a day.

“In this way, you can refuel every day and can plan ahead for those events that will take more time,” Griff says.

“Wriggling in the Middle” can be heard Mondays at 9:10 a.m. on News-Talk 1480 WHBC in Canton. / Writer Abby Cymerman is the assistant editor of akronlife. She likes to think of herself as the pickle in her family’s club sandwich. You can reach her at acymerman@bakermediagroup.com.

Comments?

E-mail them to editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com.

Food for Thought • In July 2006, Merriam-Webster added “sandwich generation” to its dictionary.

• July is registered within the U.S. National Special Events Registry as Sandwich Generation Month, an annual national observation.

FAMILY CAREGIVER

— Open Faced Sandwich: anyone else involved in elder care.

• Carol Abaya, a specialist on elder/parent care issues, coined two phrases describing other “sandwich generation” scenarios:

62

akronlife

— Club Sandwich: those in their 50s or 60s, sandwiched between aging parents, adult children and grandchildren; or those in their 30s and 40s, with young children, aging parents and grandparents.

may 2011

• Tallmadge blogger Jacquelyn Stager writes about her Club Sandwich experiences in lifebetweenthebuns.blogspot.com.

Healthy Tips

R ecog n izi ng a Med ical Emergency We a s ked G reg S m i th, M.D., a b o a rdce r ti fi ed e m e rg e n cy m ed i c i n e p hys i c i a n a n d th e reg i o n a l m ed i c a l d i recto r fo r e m e rg e n cy s e r vi ce s at S u m m a B a r b e r to n H o s p i ta l a n d S u m m a Wad swo r th- R i t tm a n H o s p i ta l, fo r g u i d e l i n e s to rec o g n ize th e n eed fo r e m e rg e n cy c a re.

What conditions should prompt a visit to the Emergency Department (ED)?

A general list includes: • Losing consciousness • Serious traumatic injury • Signs of a heart attack or stroke • Significant shortness of breath • Bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying direct pressure for 10 minutes • Quick onset of severe pain

Under what circumstances should we take our child to the ED?

• An allergic reaction to medicine or insect bites

Children may exhibit different symptoms, and symptoms that may not be so serious for an adult can be very serious for a child. Things like a traumatic injury; sudden, high fever; severe headache; persistent vomiting; malaise or disorientation should trigger a trip to the ED. If you think your child may need emergency care, trust your judgment.

• Severe vomiting • Unexplained disorientation or drowsiness If you experience other symptoms you believe are an emergency, go to the ED. What are the signs of heart attack?

Signs include chest pain, pressure or tightness; pain radiating down the arm; and lightheadedness. Some people exhibit only some or none of these signs, or completely different signs, such as severe indigestion. If you’re not sure and the signs last longer than two minutes, go to the ED. What are the signs of stroke?

Signs include sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg; sudden dimming or loss of vision; loss of speech; trouble talking or understanding speech; or sudden, severe headache with no known cause. These are just a few signs of a stroke. Remember, with both a heart attack and a stroke, there’s a limited window of time to get optimum treatment. Don’t wait to see if symptoms go away.

Under what circumstances should we call for an ambulance?

Some reasons to call 9-1-1 include heart attack or stroke symptoms, bleeding, confusion or having suffered a fall. The EMS is trained to provide you with pre-hospital care and get you to the hospital quickly.

We’re fortunate to have such highly-skilled EMS in our region.

Any other suggestions for seeking emergency care?

Prepare for an emergency before you have one.

• Carry a current list of all medications including the name, strength and dose.

• Carry a list of your allergies and a list of the immunizations you’ve had and when you had them.

• Carry your primary care physician’s name and phone number.

Call (888) 720-5318, extension “ED4” and request a personal health record and medication profile card for you to complete so you can be prepared for a visit to the ED. For a referral to any Summa Health System physician, call (330) 379-5111.

destinations

by Carol Steffey

Let the Fun Begin! / 20 things to do in Amish Country /

>>I often receive phone calls from people in the

Canton, Akron, Cleveland or Columbus area telling me they’re thinking about spending a night at our bed and breakfast. But then they ask: “Is there enough to do in Amish Country if we spend a night there?”

6. Stop at Heini’s Cheese in Berlin in the morning — and you can watch cheese being made. Just about any time of day, you can sample 50 kinds of cheese, including a green Moon Cheese.

7. Watch candles being hand-dipped and carved at Lamp & Light Candles, an Amish-owned shop.

8. If you like to sew, don’t miss Millers Dry Goods in Charm. Over 8,000 bolts of fabric to choose from!

9. Take a stroll (or ride a bike) on the Rails to Trails path that runs from Fredericksburg to just south of Killbuck — the only section in the country where there’s a special path for Amish buggies.

10. Find three stores and several floors of crafts at Sol’s Exchange. They have everything from wood to sweatshirts to candles to baby items.

11. Visit Yoders Amish Home & Farm near Walnut Creek to learn how the Amish live. Tour two homes and a schoolhouse, and take an Amish buggy ride.

Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast

>> The reality is, you could spend

a week at our bed and breakfast, and I could send you somewhere different every day! To give you just a taste of how many places there are to visit, I’ve put together this short list of 20 things to do in Amish Country. Enjoy!

1. Choose a place to stay, like the Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast, a triple-award winning inn known for evening campfires and beautiful flower gardens.

2. Ride on a horse-drawn wagon and feed exotic animals at Rolling Ridge Ranch (they have more than 500 types of animals from around the world).

64

akronlife

3. Chalet in the Valley in a Swiss-style restaurant that has a wonderful cheese fondue and five kinds of schnitzel. They also serve chicken, fish, burgers and more.

4. Go Willy Wonka at the Coblentz Chocolate Company. Build your own box, or buy something prepackaged. You can even watch them making chocolates!

5. Visit Breitenbach Amish Country Wines, Ohio’s second largest winery, for taste testing or to have a BBQ lunch on the patio.

may 2011

12. Drive to Dalton to tour the P. Graham Dunn factory, where they make beautiful inspirational wood items and art. Be sure to stop by the seconds room for bargains.

13. For a one-of-a-kind shop, visit Bowden Bells. See the unusual items they make from recycled materials. They also have a glass kiln, and you can buy gorgeous garden art.

14. At the Mt. Hope Auction yard, you’ll find everything from horses and cows to hay and chickens being auctioned.

15. Go horseback riding through the beautiful Charm countryside at Amish Country Riding Stables.

16. Don’t miss Eagle Song Studio in Winesburg. Will Kallberg carves fireplace mantles out of old barn beams and also does bronze sculpture, garden items and bird baths.

17. If you watch HGTV, you’ll want to visit the Victorian House Museum in Millersburg. Pay special attention to the fireplaces in this beautiful home.

18. From homemade custard to handdipped, Mudd Valley Creamery serves just about any flavor you can dream up.

19. Amish Door dinner theater offers shows with a Biblical theme, musicals and more.

20. If you’re an antique lover, check out Starlight Antiques. They participate in the Antiques in the Alley and the annual Antique Festival in Millersburg. Watch for “Girls Night Out” activities, too.

/ Writer Carol Steffey is the owner of Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast and Cottages at Garden Gate Get-A-Way in Millersburg, OH. She can be reached at www.garden-gate.com.

Located in

Luxury, Elegance & Romance t 1FOJOTVMB 'JSFQMBDF +BDV[[J 5VC

Holmes County Amish Country

t 5XFOUZ UISFF GPPU 1SJWBUF 1PSDI t "NJTI NBEF $BCJOFUT #FET t -VYVSJPVT "NFOJUJFT

Named 1 of the Top 10 B&B’s in the USA! t &WFOJOH $BNQĕ SF 'MPXFS (BSEFOT t 1FBDFGVM 4FUUJOH $MPTF UP "UUSBDUJPOT t (BSEFO -FWFM 3PPNT XJUI 1SJWBUF &OUSBODFT #BUIT 6QTDBMF "NFOJUJFT BOE -JOFOT

XXX HBSEFO HBUF DPN for our special packages, rates, etc.

for Bed & Breakfast for Cottages at Garden Gate Get-A-Way

www.akronlife.com

65

Promotional Editorial

Come...Relax...Enjoy...

Life’s Simple Pleasures

6LPSOH

3OHDVXUHV

Bed & Breakfast

<RXU +RVWV

1

&DURO /HH DQG 2ZHQ 6KHYOLQ

Guests Enjoy High Tea day of check in, a complimentary glass of wine or non-alcoholic beverage, a full gourmet breakfast each morning

2

VLPSOHSOHDVXUHVEHGDQGEUHDNIDVW FRP

3 1. Behalt at the Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center in Berlin Make this your first stop in Amish Country! Experience the heritage of the Amish and Mennonite community through the colorful artistic presentation of Behalt — a stunning 265-foot mural-inthe round. Video of community life. Bookstore, gift shop, displays. Restored one-room schoolhouse. Pioneer Barn.

Open year-round Mon.-Sat. 9-5. Closed Sunday.

For more information, call 877-858-4634 or visit www.behalt.com.

66

akronlife

may 2011

2. Amish Country Lodging at Its Best Multi-award-winning Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in Amish Country Ohio offers evening campfires and beautiful flower gardens, which are some of the guest favorite features. Wine tasting weekends, murder mysteries, Amish culture tours and itinerary planning for guests will enhance your stay. Indulge in homemade breakfasts and afternoon snacks. For more information, call 330-674-7608 or visit www.garden-gate.com.

3. Something for Everyone In Ohio’s Amish Country, it’s easy to find homestyle cooking, cheese factory tours, artisan-quality chocolates, quilts and solid furniture.

Affordable accommodations and restaurants make Amish Country an experience available for everyone. For free, customized information for couples, families and groups, call 877-643-7874 or go online at www.visitamishcountry.com.

the mad platter

by Bev Shaffer

Open Mouth, Insert Foot

/ The creator of stilettos was a sadist — or missing a few toes. Regardless, these shoes weren’t made for walking, but I will take a 7½ in dark chocolate ... /

>>I’ve always been a little too practical when I shop

for shoes, gravitating toward the attractive black shoe with a low or mid-heel. I’ve even given a “try-on chance” to Birkies (as those who love Birkenstocks call them).

Let me describe that experience for >> those of you who haven’t ventured into this shoe dimension. Imagine taking two bricks and strapping them to the bottom of your feet (open-toed bricks, of course), then dragging your feet over to the mirror (as if you were trying to decide whether they fit or not), all the while listening to the shoe clerk (do these people now have a more politically correct name? footwear fitter? sole provider?) say, “Aren’t those great?!”

(Great for what? A quick trip to the bottom of Lake Erie?)

OK, OK. So a few years ago in France, I fell in love with a pair of Birkenstocks (I should’ve been looking at French designers, I know!) that are covered with assorted bright-colored hearts. They are so adorable. Although I’ve worn them a million times (read as five or six times), I have yet to “break them in,” whatever that means.

(When the clerk in France said “breaking them in” — loosely translated as “casser les en” — it sounded so much more sophisticated and believable.)

Now I don’t buy a pair of shoes unless, when I’m trying them on, my eyes light up and I say out loud, “I love these!”

UGG Australia? Don’t even get me started.

Now made in China without the stickershock reduction. And on a recent onemonth trip to Australia and New Zealand, I saw two (that’s two!) people wearing them

— and they didn’t even have an Aussie accent, mate!

And yes, I know my legs would look sexy in black stiletto heels — but here’s the rub (figuratively, that is!): I have five toes. You, more than likely, also have five toes.

And no, I don’t believe my five-toed foot would fit into a stiletto heel, much less be able to walk with a stiletto heel on.

So, there I was, psyching myself up for trying on a pair of shoes that I know only two or three of my toes will fit into. (Hmmm … I could attractively cascade one toe over the other and have them permanently fused together, creating an intriguing bump on the front of the pump …)

“How do those feel?” the footwear fitter asked, directly avoiding contact with my eyes, which were screaming, “Feel? Who can feel?!”

Even a three-toed sloth could see that a stiletto was created with evil intentions.

The perfect shoe for a dominant female to trample a submissive (male). Why else would a shoe be named after a narrow bladed dagger? (A dagger designed as a stabbing weapon, since its long, narrow shape allows it to penetrate deeply. Ouch!)

And women invite foot problems with high heels. Hey, some women need all the attention they can get … and for them, inviting

foot problems may be a good thing. But how do these women end up? With knee and back problems, disabling injuries from falls, shortened calf muscles and (get this!) an awkward, unnatural gait. The Podiatric Feet-Planted-Firmly-On-The-Ground Association has all the facts gathered for you. In case you aren’t aware, there are, according to the PFPFOTGA, “comfortable and attractive ‘walking’ pumps.” Also called in inner foot-fetish circles, “comfort” or “performance” pumps. These attractive little ditties are perfect for work or social activities.

As if that weren’t enough to wrap your legs around, a network of foot-health providers

www.akronlife.com

67

:HYHO­Z 6XPPHU 6ROVWLFH =PUL`HYK WK $QQXDO

:LQH $UW DQG %OXHV )HVWLYDO

Sponsored by The Cuyahoga Valley Countryside Conservancy

)ULGD\ -XQH WK SP SP

6DWXUGD\ -XQH WK SP SP

6XQGD\ -XQH WK DP SP

&RPH WDVWH JUHDW ZLQHV IURP 2KLR :LQHULHV HDW JUHDW IRRG EX\ JUHDW DUW DQG OLVWHQ WR JUHDW %OXHV %DQGV $GPLVVLRQ LQFOXGHV D FU\VWDO ZLQH JODVV )UHH 3DUNLQJ $W 6DUDK·V 9LQH\DUG ZH IHDWXUH PRUH WKDQ MXVW

KLJK TXDOLW\ ZLQHV &RPH DQG VDPSOH RXU GHOLFLRXV DSSHWL]HUV VDQGZLFKHV DQG GHVVHUWV ZKLOH VLWWLQJ RQ RXU SDWLR RU LQ RXU HGXFDWLRQDO EXWWHUÁ \ JDUGHQ :KLOH VLSSLQJ RQ ZLQH \RX ZLOO HQMR\ YLHZLQJ RXU DUW JDOOHU\ IHDWXULQJ ORFDO DUWLVWV· ZRUNV DYDLODEOH IRU SXUFKDVH :H ORRN IRUZDUG WR \RXU YLVLW

6WHHOV &RUQHUV 5RDG $FURVV IURP %ORVVRP 0XVLF &HQWHU

VDUDKVYLQH\DUGZLQHU\ FRP

has determined that your two feet may be different sizes — so buy shoes for the larger one.

Is this how the saying, ‘You’ve got some big shoes to fill’ was started, by the smaller foot?

Which brings me full circle to stiletto heels and the image of femme fatale … and what would be the perfect use for a mold of a shoe this shape and size?

Chocolate!

When I took a chocolate-molding class from a master chocolatier a number of years ago and we got to the piece de resistance in the handson class, I finally understood why these shoes were created.

A molded version of a stiletto heel was given to us to create the perfect chocolate sensation: a hollow, edible chocolate shoe — filled with truffles and other irresistible candies.

So in this case, if the shoe fits (and it will), eat it.

/ Bev Shaffer is a freelance writer voted “most

likely to be witty” during her incredibly fulfilling time in high school. Her Mad Platter column often deals with issues of conflama (conflict and drama) that affect, irritate and generally amuse both women and men. Relax with some chocolate and enjoy her website at www.bevshaffer.com.

Comments?

E-mail them to editor Georgina K. Carson at gcarson@bakermediagroup.com.

Where Can I Get Edible Shoes?

Chocolate heels are available at: Coblentz Chocolate Company in Holmes County Amish country 4917 State Route 515 Walnut Creek, OH 44687 330-893-2995 (They also have a retail shop in Berlin, Ohio, and their sea salt caramels are not to be missed!)

To have a chocolate shoe custom-made in the likeness of your favorite pair of heels, call 216-362-8700 to speak with a “confectionary designer” at Malley’s.

68

akronlife

may 2011

good eats

restaurants / notable food & drink /

Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices. 250 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330376-0600 $ B, L, D, T Aladdin’s Eatery Outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-535-0110; First and Main streets (Hudson) 330-656-0560 $$ L, D, A, T Al’s Corner Restaurant Old-world comfort food served cafeteria style. Cabbage rolls and sausage made locally are a favorite. 545 W. Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330-753-7216 $$ L, T Amato’s Restaurant & Bar A former stagecoach inn and tavern built in the 1840s. 3044 Wadsworth Rd. (Norton) 330-825-8280 $$$ L, D, A, T Angello’s Historic building with an Italian neighborhood feel. 4905 Tuscarawas St. W. (Canton) 330-477-1486 $$ L, D, A, T Arcadia Grille Authentic Italian cuisine with pasta and chops. Breakfast served Saturday and Sunday. A local favorite for more than 85 years. 321 Court Ave. (Canton: Downtown) 330-454-6055 $$ B, L, D, A Arnie’s West Branch Steak House Casual dining, specializing in steak, ribs and seafood.

Closed Sundays. 5343 State Route 14 (Ravenna) 330-297-1717 $$$ D, A, T Barley House Menu includes hot and cold deli sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, soups and more. 222 S. Main St. (Akron) 330-374-0925 $$ L, D, A, T Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Fairlawn Hilton. 3180 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-5577 $$$$ L, D, A, T Belgrade Gardens Famous for fried chicken and home-style cooking. 401 E. State St. (Barberton) 330-745-0113; 3476 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-3396 $$ L, D, A, T Bellacino’s Known for grinders, pizza, pasta and fresh salads. Full bar, patio and banquet room with dance floor. 3657 Fishcreek Rd. (Stow) 330-6783000 $$ L, D, A, T Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood.

137 Court Ave. SW (Canton: Downtown) 330-4538424 $$$$ L, D, A, T Bennett’s Family Restaurant Comfort food, standard American fare. 13211 Cleveland Ave. NW (Uniontown) 330-699-9291 $ B, L, D, T No credit cards Beside the Point Café Specialty sandwiches, main-event salads, homemade soups and hot kitchen creations at this West Point Market restaurant. 1711 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-8642151 $$ B, L, D, T Bialy’s At the Lakes American menu with lots of seafood choices. 493 Portage Lakes Dr. (Portage Lakes) 330-644-7177 $$ L, D, A, T

Bianca’s Italian Ristorante & Lounge Traditional Italian, juicy steaks and fresh seafood.

4284 Beverly Hills Dr. (Brunswick) 330-225-0927 $$ L, D, A, T Bistro on Main House-made desserts, hand-cut steaks and fresh pasta. Closed Sundays. 1313 W. Main St. (Kent) 330-673-9900 $$$$ L, D, A, T Blue Canyon Creative American cuisine in six nature-inspired dining environments. Sunday jazz brunch. 8960 Wilcox Dr. (Twinsburg) 330-486-2583 $$$ L, D, A, T Bombay Sitar Fine Indian cuisine. Food is natural and prepared fresh daily. 4633 Belden Village St. NW (North Canton) 330-493-0671 $$ L, D, T Bricco Unique pizza and pasta. 1 W. Exchange St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T The Cabin Upscale Italian within the Mario’s International Spa and Inn complex. 49 E. Garfield Rd. (Aurora) 330-562-9171 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Cafe Tandoor Casual atmosphere, Indian cuisine.

Closed Mondays. 96 Barrington Town Center (Aurora) 330-562-5334 $$$ L, D, A, T Caffé Gelato Italian coffee drinks, paninis, salads, soups, pizza, desserts and homemade Italian gelato.

Live entertainment on weekend evenings. 506 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330-494-1123 $ B, L, D, T Cajun Dave’s at the Water Street Tavern.

Specializes in Cajun classics, homestyle southern foods, Ohio grass-fed hamburgers and homemade pizza. 138 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-474-0800 $$ L, D, A, T Capri Pizza Longtime Highland Square joint with pizza, pasta, wings and barbeque ribs. 810 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-762-9131 $ L, D, T Casa Del Ranchero Mexican dining. 562 West Tuscarawas (Barberton) 330-753-8494 $$ L, D, A, T China City Traditional Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting. 156 Cherry St. (Kent) 330-673-6566 $$ L, D, A, T China Gourmet Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin and Cantonese dishes. Known for General Tso’s Chicken.

1971 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-867-8838 $$$ L, D, A, T Chowder House Café Salads, soups, sandwiches and clam chowder. Bring your own wine and beer ($5 corkage fee). Open weekdays for lunch; Saturday lunch and dinner. Closed Sundays. 2028 Chestnut Blvd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-794-7102 $$$ L, D, T No credit cards Cilantro Upscale Thai and Japanese, extensive menu, fresh ingredients, hand-selected sushi and no MSG. Spice levels from 0 to 5. Eclectic atmosphere. 326 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-434-2876 $$$ L, D, A, T Coopers in the Valley American-style classics including soups, chili and BBQ ribs. Most entrées made from scratch. 1824 Merriman Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-865-9510 $$ L, D, A, T

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

Please call ahead to verify location, hours and events.

Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 57 E. Market St. (Akron) 330-253-1234 $$ L, D, A, T, V Cristo’s House of Pasta Pizza, manicotti and stuffed shells are a few of the favorites. Closed Sundays. 1275 Norton Ave. (Norton) 330-825-1994 $$ L, D, A, T Crooked River Grill Full-service catering and restaurant. Ribs are a specialty. 403 N. Main St. (Munroe Falls) 330-688-9911 $$$ L, D, A, T D’Agneses Tomato Grill Wide array of entrée choices. Sunday brunch.106 First St. (Hudson) 330342-3771 $$$$ L, D, A, T D’Agneses Trattoria and Café Northern and Southern Italian cuisine made in-house with fresh ingredients. Specialties include chicken and veal saltimbocca and gorgonzola crusted grouper.

566 White Pond Dr. (Akron) 234-678-3612 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Danny Boy’s If you love the Rat Pack, you’ll love this menu. Try the Old Blue Eyes Mac & Cheese, the Hammy Davis Jr. Melt or The Chairman of the Board Calzone. 6081 Dressler Road NW (Canton) 330-4993726 $$$ L, D, A, T Dave’s Cosmic Subs Sign the walls at this sub stop, featuring psychedelic and music memorabilia decor. 186 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-342-5666 $$ L, D, T Dave’s Tip Top Pleasant atmosphere with homestyle menu. Perfect for family dining. 3428 Darrow Rd. (Stow) 330-688-3171 $$ B, L, D, T David B’s Grill & Pub Known locally for excellent service and a variety of foods. 3900 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-666-1191; 526 W. Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330-745-7677 $$$ L, D, A, T Delanie’s Neighborhood Grille Comfort food, sporty atmosphere and full bar. 67 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-630-2888 $$$ L, D, A, T Deli on Rye Excellent variety of sandwiches. Meats and cheeses sliced to order. Deli-style dill pickles on each table are the house tradition. 180 W. Streetsboro St. (Hudson) 330-650-1617 $$ L, D, A, T Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970. Specializes in “Family Style” shish kabobs. 204 12th St. NW (Canton) 330-456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-762-5877 $ B, L, A, T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, authentic 1950s-style décor, highly regarded. All steaks are hand-cut, and seafood is flown in fresh.

77 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No credit cards Dontino’s Restaurant Home-style Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T

Double Decker Stone Grill Gourmet sandwich shop combines lava stone grilling with highest-quality steaks and fresh seafood. Homemade corned beef and pastrami from Ohio-fed beef.

Wine-tasting Tuesdays. 1662 Merriman Rd. (Akron) 330-864-3663 $$$ L, D, A, T Edgar’s Serves a variety of entrées, such as chargrilled grouper. Homemade soups, salads and starters. 530 Nome Ave. at Good Park Golf Course (Akron) 330869-3000 $$$ L, D, A, T El Campesino Authentic Mexican cuisine. 4360 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-5561; 9169 State Route 14 (Streetsboro) 330-626-9777; 4048 Lincolnway E. (Massillon) 330-477-8731 $$ L, D, A, T El Rincon Authentic Mexican cuisine. 1485 S. Arlington St. (Akron: South) 330-785-3724; 720 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330-497-2229; 3212 Tuscarawas St. W. (Canton) 330-453-9200 $$ L, D, A, T Erie Station Grille Features such classics as baby-back ribs seared with homemade BBQ sauce and prime rib of beef au jus. 70 East Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-634-9900. $$$ L, D, A, T The Eye Opener Diner-style menu features jams and jellies from Crooked River Herb Farm. Upscale décor includes photos of historic Akron. 1688 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-867-1114 $$ B, L, D, T Farmer Boy Restaurant House specialties include Greek souvlaki, broaster chicken and delicious desserts. 1324 Canton Rd. (Akron: East) 330-7844052 $$ B, L, D, T Firehouse Grill & Pub Watch sports and enjoy steaks, buffalo wings or crab legs. 1677 E. Market St. (Akron: East) 330-733-6279; 2727 Manchester Rd. (Akron) 330-848-2426; 581 Norton Rd. (Barberton) 330-861-0300; 4809 State Route 44 (Rootstown) 330-325-0706; 76 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-6349967 $$ L, D, A Fisher’s Café & Pub American cuisine. 1607 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-657-2651 $$ L, D, A, T Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Upscale steakhouse offering aged beef, chops, fresh seafood, salad and more than 100 wines by the glass. 4000 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330-670-5200 $$$$ D, A, T Flip Side Gourmet, Ohio-raised beef burgers with chef-crafted condiments, toppings and sides; free-range organic chicken breast sandwiches; and market fresh salads. Craft beer on tap. 49 Village Way (Hudson) 330-655-3547 $$ L, D, A, T Franklin Square Deli Quality sandwich shop with an auto-racing theme. 108 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-673-2942 $$ B, L, D, T Fred’s Diner Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch. 930 Home Ave. (Akron: North) 330-535-3733 $ B, L, T

www.akronlife.com

69

by Abby Cymerman

small bite

Deli Dilemma Scott Durbin, of the Imagination >> Movers, gave a shout-out to downtown Akron’s The Diamond Deli at the end of his band’s March 25 matinee show at the Akron Civic Theatre. Corned beef emergency ... solved!

FRESH – Healthy Café Upscale healthy options, quick-service setting. Smoothies, organic coffees, wraps, grilled paninis, wheatgrass shots, antioxidant drinks and more. 3265 West Market St. in Summit Mall (Fairlawn) 330-865-8133 $$ B, L, D The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building. Fantastic desserts.

201 Park Centre Dr. (Wadsworth) 330-334-3663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Gasoline Alley Eclectic menu featuring pizza, salads, sandwiches and sauerkraut balls. 870 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-2670 $$$ L, D, A, T Geisen Haus Generous portions, great beer selection. 6955 Promway Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-499-9116 $$ L, D, A, T Gervasi Vineyard & Italian Bistro 55-acre estate, winery and bistro, outdoor seating, six-acre lake with resident swans and outdoor bocce courts. Committed to fresh ingredients and the locavore movement. Closed Mondays. Lunch Saturdays and Sundays. 1700 55th St. NE (Canton) 330-497-1000 $$$ L, D, A Golden Dragon Chinese fare. Also offers traditional Japanese cooking and sushi. 1634 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-1109 $$ L, D, A, T Great Harvest Bread Co. Neighborhood bakery specializing in natural, whole grain breads, cookies and breakfast items. Deli sandwiches and soup served at lunch. 3900 Medina Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-666-7497 $ B, L, T Great Shanghai Buffet Chinese and Japanese buffet-style food. 1619 Streetsboro Plaza (Streetsboro) 330-626-8000 $$ L, D, A, T 70

akronlife

Green Diamond Grille & Pub Upscale dining without upscale pricing. Specializes in steaks and chops. 125 Second St. (Barberton) 330-7451900 $$$ L, D, A, T Gregory’s Grille & Pub American food in a country setting within Mario’s International Spa and Inn. 30 Shawnee Trail (Aurora) 330-562-6121 $$$ B, L, D, A, T The Grill Room at Martin University Center Former members-only University Club.

Casual upscale, sandwiches, salads and entrées.

105 Fir Hill (Akron: Downtown) 330-972-7711 $$ L, A, T Grille 39 Soup, salads, sandwiches, steaks, chicken, pasta and seafood. Everything made from scratch, including the salad dressings. Meat is locally raised.

3939 Massillon Rd. (Uniontown) 330-899-1616 $$$ L, D, A Grinders Above & Beyond Family restaurant. Grinders, burgers, dinners, appetizers, homemade soups and pies. 1671 N. Main St. (North Canton) 330-497-4800; 3114 Whipple Ave. (Canton) 330-477-5411; 1820 W. State St. (Alliance) 330-821-6665; 404 E. Lincoln Way (Minerva) 330-868-7824; 500 W. Main St. (Louisville) 330-875-9700 $ B, L, D, A, T Gus’ Chalet A North Hill institution, popular meeting place for Akron area politicos. Serves variety of dishes, from Greek favorites to standard American fare. 938 E. Tallmadge Ave. (Akron: North) 330-633-2322 $$ L, D, A, T Hattie’s Café & Gifts Training and vocational site for people with disabilities. Features coffee, homemade pastries, ice cream, soups, salads may 2011

and sandwiches. 164 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330655-0044; 520 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-535-1779; 60 S. High St. (at Akron Library) 330-762-0853; 166 S. High St. (at Akron municipal building) 330-252-0556; 1 S. High St. (at Akron Art Museum) 330-376-9186 $ B, L, D, T Henry Wahner’s Restaurant An old favorite across from KSU. Complete German menu. Germanstyle bar with beers served in ice-cold steins. 1609 E. Main St. (Kent) 330-678-4055 $$$$ D, A, T No credit cards Hibachi Japan Steak House Japanese Hibachi-style cooking, great steak and sushi. 2251 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-3333 $$$ L, D, A, T Hopocan Gardens Barberton-style chicken.

4396 W. Hopocan Ave. (Barberton) 330-825-9923 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards House of Hunan Common favorites to spicy specialties. Oriental décor. 12 E. Exchange St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-1888; 2717 W. Market St. (Fairlawn Town Centre) 330-864-8201; 18 Public Square (Medina) 330-722-1899 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Hudson’s Restaurant Neighborhood restaurant and bar serving fresh, chef-driven dishes.

Family-friendly atmosphere. 80 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-650-1955; 3900 Median Rd. (Akron: West) 330666-7777 $$ B, L, D, A, T Hyde Park Grille New York-style upscale steakhouse. 4073 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-6706303 $$$$ 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: South) 330-773-1724 $$$ L, D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Grille Widely recognized as one of Akron’s finest. Upscale, eclectic cuisine. Emphasis on steak and seafood. 1970 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-867-2555 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Ken Stewart’s Lodge Casual, Adirondack-style atmosphere, eclectic cuisine. 1911 N. ClevelandMassillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-8881 $$$$ D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Tre Belle Italian atmosphere and authentic cuisine. Specialties include an antipasto bar, big drinks and an extensive wine list.

1911 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-6669990 $$$ D, A, V, T Kozmo’s Grille Stone-hearth pizzas, upscale pasta dishes, fresh seafood and steaks. 37 First St. NW (Massillon) 330-832-8807 $$$ L, D, A, T Lanning’s Restaurant Elegant dining atmosphere with a beautiful view. More than 150 types of wine. 826 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-1159, 330-864-2553 $$$$ D, A, T, V Larry’s Main Entrance English-pub style, burgers of note. 1964 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-864-8162 $$ L, D, A, T The Leopard Eclectic menu with American, Asian, French and Italian influences. Features seven-course chef’s table, prix fixe. 600 N. Aurora Rd. (Aurora) 330562-2111 $$$$ D, A, T, V The Lockview Traditional American favorites.

Fresh menu with spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T Lolli’s Well-regarded Italian cuisine, suitable for private parties. 4801 Dressler Rd. NW (Canton) 330492-6846 $$$ L, D, A, T Longfellow’s Tavern American fare with frequent live music. 127 Watrusa Ave. (Wadsworth) 330-336-0028 $$ L, D, A, T Louie’s Bar & Grille Local reputation for burgers. 739 E. Glenwood Ave. (Akron: North) 330535-5030 $ L, D, A, T

Luchita’s Authentic Mexican cuisine with a four-star rating. Voted No. 1 by Scene magazine. 36 Park Lane (Hudson) 330-655-0059 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Lucia’s Steakhouse Fresh seafood, signature garlic butter-topped steaks, Italian favorites and Lucia classics, like homemade crab cakes or cubanella and long, hot peppers. Closed Sundays.

4769 Belpar St. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330492-9933 $$$$ D, A Luigi’s Restaurant An Akron icon. Open late. Serves superb Italian cuisine, salads and award-winning pizza. Voted Best Pizza and Best Italian Restaurant by Akron Life readers in 2004, 2006–2009. Party trays and sheet-pan pizzas available with 24-hour notice. 105 N. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-2999 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards Lukity Country Inn Home-style comfort food.

2697 Manchester Rd. (Akron: South) 330-753-5983 $$ B, L, A, T Main Wok Fast Chinese cuisine. 2855 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-8885 $$ L, D, T Accepts Discover and MasterCard Maize Valley Winery Sample wine by bottle or glass. Taste 100+ types of cheeses. Appetizers and sandwiches served daily. Full dinner menu on Saturday evenings. 6193 Edison St. NE (Hartville) 330-877-8344 $$ L, D, A Mandarin House Mandarin-style cuisine is an interesting change from traditional Cantonese food.

3201 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-8157 $$ L, D, A, T Mapleside Farms & Restaurant Country dining room with fireplace, beautiful view. Try the cinnamon crescents and apple pie. 294 Pearl Rd. (Brunswick) 330-225-5576 $$$ L, D, A Marcelita’s Southwestern atmosphere, guacamole made fresh daily, authentic Mexican fare. 7774 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-650-1121 $$ L, D, A, T Mariachi Cocos Mexican restaurant and cantina with daily happy hour. 1682 Merriman Rd. (Akron: Merriman Valley) 330-836-1167; 10333 Northfield Rd. (Northfield) 330-467-6655 $$ L, D, A, T Mariachi Locos Fast, authentic Mexican cuisine.

2215 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: East) 330-733-4065; 4161 Steels Point (Stow) 330-922-3307 $$ L, D, A, T Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s Best Red Sauce. Known for endless ice cream options. 780 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-253-1511 $$ L, D Mavis Winkle’s Irish Pub Attentive, friendly service. Large, eclectic menu, cozy atmosphere and live music. 5005 Rockside Rd. (Independence) 216-525-0770; 8870 Darrow Rd. (Twinsburg) 330405-3663 $$ L, D, A, T Medina Steakhouse & Saloon Oldfashioned décor turns this once stagecoach stop into an open, casual place for food. 538 W. Liberty St. (Medina) 330-723-2853 $$ L, D, A Meet Me At Irene’s House favorites include chili, omelets and daily specials, such as Swiss steak, beef tips, meatloaf and tuna melts. 264 Kent Ave. N.E. (Hartville) 330-877-6477 $ B, L, T Menches Brothers Restaurant Inventors of the hamburger and ice cream cone. In Akron since 1901. 3700 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-2288 $$ B, L, D, A, T Metro Burger Over 33 million combinations of burgers. Veggie, chicken and turkey burgers also available. Order a gourmet burger, or build your own. 845 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-2538743 $$ L, D, A, T

Michael’s AM Casual, family-style dining. Full breakfast and lunch menu featuring sandwiches and daily specials.1562 Akron-Peninsula Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-929-3447 $ 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 Milich’s Village Inn Finger-lickin’ chicken prepared Barberton style.

The tenders are a twist on the famous recipe. 4444 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Norton) 330-825-4553 $$ L, D, T The Mill A unique concept in in-store dining. The pancake special starts your day off right. 175 Great Oaks Trail in Buehler’s Foods (Wadsworth) 330-336-3588 $$ B, L, D, T Moe’s Hip, intimate atmosphere featuring a diverse chalkboard menu that changes weekly. Martinis, cocktails and extensive selection of wines by the glass. Closed Sundays. 2385 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-6600 $$$$ L, D, A, T Mr. Zubs Deli New Highland Square deli at the Matinee features hot and cold sandwiches named after movie characters, cream cheese spreads, salads and sides. Open late-night. 812 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-252-0272 $ L, D, T Ms. Julie’s Kitchen Opened by Akron native and author of three vegan cookbooks. Specialties include salads, whole grain-foods and spelt flour waffles. 1809 S. Main St. (Akron) 330-819-3834 $ B, L, D, T Mulligan’s Pub Local antique décor, award-winning barbecued ribs, extensive menu. 4118 Belden Village St. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330493-8239 $$$ L, D, A, T Mustard Seed Market Café Located on mezzanine overlooking natural foods market. Menu reflects same strict standards as the market, with naturally raised meats, free-range poultry and foods free from artificial flavors, colorings and preservatives. Full bar, juice bar and espresso. Live music on weekends. Sunday brunch. 3885 W. Market St. (Montrose) 330666-7333; 6025 Kruze Dr. (Solon) 440-519-3663 $$$ L, D, T New Era Restaurant A mainstay of the Akron area. Heavenly paprikash and other Hungarian favorites. 10 Massillon Rd. (Akron: East) 330-784-0087 $$ B, L, D, A, T The New Peter Shears Downtown New York City atmosphere.

Upscale with small, intimate rooms and muted lighting. Families and children welcome. 427 E. Tuscarawas St. (Canton: Downtown) 330-5888300 $$$$ L, D, A, T Nick Anthe’s An established tradition in Akron’s North Hill. Halibut is a favorite. Steaks, lamb chops and rack of lamb are also popular. 1008 N. Main St. (Akron: North) 330-929-6425 $$$$ L, D, A, T Nicolinni’s Ristorante% Traditional Italian recipes by way of Youngstown. Pasta, veal, chicken, steak and seafood. 85 W. Montrose Ave. (Akron) 330-664-0808 $$$ L, D, A, T Northside Loud food and spicy music in an historic, turn-of-the-century saloon. All-organic menu. Live music six nights a week. Attached to Northside is Snook’s, an intimate jazz lounge featuring fine wine and spirits.

111 N. Main St. (Akron) 330-434-0611 $$ L, D, A, T 91 Wood Fired Oven Upscale casual, West Coast atmosphere. Pizza and pasta are specialties. Patio dining. 1983 Easton St. NW in Washington Square Plaza (North Canton) 330-498-9191; 5570 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-497-9111 $$$ D, A, T The Oaks Lakeside Casual dining, fabulous ambiance in 1914 estate.

Outdoor dining and water views. 5878 Longacre Lane (Chippewa Lake) 800-922-5736 $$$$ L, D, A The Office Metropolitan bistro and lounge with eclectic ambiance and timeless decor. 778 N. Main St. (Akron) 330-376-9550 $$$ L, D, A, T Olde Harbor Inn Upscale dining with contemporary cuisine. Overlooks Portage Lakes. 562 Portage Lakes Dr. (Akron) 330-644-1664 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V On Tap Relaxed atmosphere, great gyros and Greek food. 3263 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-922-0464; 2905 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-7251972; 4396 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-5359; 3997 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330-668-1116 $$ L, D, A, T One Red Door Decadent menu featuring gourmet pizzas, share plates such as bacon-wrapped roasted dates, and burgers. Closed Sundays. 49 Village Way (Hudson) 330-342-3667 $$$$ L, D, A Otani’s Japanese Hibachi-style tableside cooking. 1684 Merriman Rd. (Akron) 330-836-1500 $$$$ L, D, A, T Pad Thai Elegant restaurant, extensive menu of traditional Thai dishes.

3545 Brookwall Dr. (Fairlawn) 330-668-9981; 5657 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-650-9998 $$ L, D, A, T Pancho & Lefty’s Popular neighborhood cantina. 3254 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-6781 $$ L, D, A, T

Th� fr���es� ��ggies, ��� & d��� �e�ts!

2XU LQ VWRUH EDNHU\ DQG GHOL DUH FUHDWLYH DPD]LQJ (QMR\ RXU KRPHPDGH GLSV VSUHDGV VDOVDV

:H VWRFN +DUW]OHU )DPLO\ 'DLU\ PLON LFH FUHDP EXWWHU 0F&XWFKHRQ -DPV 0RQ )UL DP SP 6DW DP SP &/26(' 681 -HOOLHV ( 7XUNH\IRRW /DNH 5G 5WH &LW\ RI *UHHQ 9LGDV +RPHPDGH QRRGOHV &RPH VPHOO 7DVWH ([SHULHQFH WKH QHZ PHDQLQJ RI ³)5(6+´ 5HLQHFNHUV %UHDGV

9HJJLHV :H JURZ RXU RZQ )LVK 0HDW 1HYHU )UR]HQ %RDU¶V +HDG 0HDWV &KHHVHV 6OLFHG WR 2UGHU

www.akronlife.com

71

uncorked

A to Z Wineworks A to Z Pinot Noir Oregon A to Z Pinot Gris Oregon

By Rob Hawk

>> Founded in 2002, A to Z Winery is Oregon’s fastest growing producer and has catapulted like a rocket to the top of the wine-producing heap — despite the fact that the wine label has no permanent physical location.

Owner and founder Bill Hatcher was a consultant in 1987, when the Drouhin family acquired their first property in Oregon. He then helped to build and develop Domaine Drouhin, remaining there until 2001 when he left to form A to Z. The winery doesn’t own any vineyards; Hatcher and his partners, Sam Tannahill and Cheryl Francis, secured contracts from numerous Oregon vineyards, keeping the identities of those vineyards a “professional secret.” And the name came from the fact that, in the beginning, the winery didn’t know if its grapes would come from Winery A, Winery B or Winery Z. The model is simple — to produce and market Oregon’s best wine values by concentrating on their core competencies of superior fruit acquisition and blending.

The result: All A to Z wines reflect the true essence of Oregon.

The 2009 A to Z Oregon Pinot Gris is a great example of classic Oregon. It shimmers in the glass with pear, ginger, almond and vanilla aromas. Juicy, bright and succulent on the attack, this wine showcases flavors of tangerine, melon, pineapple and wet stone. The wine is framed by ripe acidity, giving classic Oregon Pinot Gris proportions and lift to the richness. The long finish slides effortlessly from the mid-palate with lingering impressions of tantalizing, pure, intense fruit. It pairs wonderfully with foods low in acid, such as pan-seared halibut with coconut rice and mango chutney.

Super sexy and spicy on the nose, the 2009 A to Z Pinot Noir exhibits aromas of apricots, blueberries, bing cherries, blood oranges, gingerbread, white pepper, sweet Eastern spices, violets, tea and sweet pipe tobacco. In the mouth, the wine has refreshing acidity with silky tannins and rich flavors mirroring the aromatics. The wine restrains power while balancing richness and purity with a clean, refreshing finish. Classically proportioned and built for midterm aging, the wine will continue to build weight and structure with cellaring. It makes a great match for poultry and fowl, especially duck or goose prepared a variety of ways. It’s also a great cheese wine too, brie, especially, and other mild soft cheeses.

The Pinot Noir retails for around $20, and the Pinot Gris for around $15.

They can be found at many fine retailers around the Akron area, including Papa Joe’s, 750 ML, Regency Wine Shop, West Point Market, Mustard Seed Market, Buehler’s, Riverside Wine & Imports, and select Acme and Giant Eagle stores.

Writer Rob Hawk is a regional sales manager at Wine Trends, Inc. 72

akronlife

may 2011

Pancho’s Southwestern Grill Tex-Mex, Southwestern chicken specialties, charbroiled pizza, steaks and seafood. 4325 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-1991 $$ L, D, A, T Pantry Restaurant Casual dining in a country setting. Wraparound balcony seating (weather permitting). Homecooked meals, fresh-made pies and kids’ menu. 101 N. Prospect Ave. (Hartville) 330-818-5531 $$ B, L, D, T Papa Bear’s Italian Restaurant Great, authentic, homemade Italian food.

4990 Dressler Rd. NW (Canton) 330-4930090 $$$ L, D, A, T Papa Gyros Greek Grill Authentic Greek fare. Greek wine and beer. 4760 Everhard Rd. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330-497-1100; 2045 Cleveland Ave. NW (Canton) 330-456-9000 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Joe’s Classy atmosphere, extensive wine list, fine Italian fare, seafood and steaks.

1561 Akron-Peninsula Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-923-7999 $$$ L, D, A, T Parasson’s Good pasta. Great for family dining. 501 N. Main St. (Akron: North) 330-376-2117; 959 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 330-724-9375; 3983 Darrow Rd. (Stow) 330688-3650; 364 Wooster Rd. N. (Barberton) 330-753-2264 $$ L, D, A, T Piatto Novo Authentic Italian fare including steaks and seafood, coupled with a breathtaking view of the Cuyahoga River, make this a must-do experience.1989 Front St. at the Sheraton (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-9207530 $$$$ L, D, A, V Pillitiere’s The sub sandwiches and affordable lunches are a Firestone Park tradition. 61 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: South) 330-773-0206 $ B, L, D, A, T PINTS! Your Premiere Liquid Grille Numerous tap offerings along with sandwiches, pizza, wings and fried delicacies.

426 E. Exchange St. (Akron: University Park) $ L, D, A, T Platinum Dragon A great spot for people-watching. Menu features a variety of Chinese favorites. 814 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-434-8108 $ L, D, A, T Prime/93 Appetizers, specials, hand-cut and aged steaks, chops and fresh seafood.

Chef-driven restaurant. Entertainment on weekends. 4315 Manchester Rd. (Akron: South) 330-644-2239 $$$$ L, D, A, T Pufferbelly Ltd. Located in historic Kent railroad depot. 152 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330673-1771 $$$ L, D, A, T Raj Mahal Traditional Indian cuisine with excellent lamb and chicken curry dishes. Daily lunch buffet. 2035 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-926-0795 $$$ L, D, A, T Ray’s Place The area’s largest selection of foreign and domestic beer in the bottle and on draft. 135 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330-6732253 $$ L, D, A, T Reggie’s Cheerful atmosphere, home-style cooking from breakfast to burgers. Perfect for family dining. 4065 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-1234 $$ B, L, D, A, T Reserve Inn A Hudson landmark featuring fine cuisine and an upscale setting. Traditional steaks and ribs with a Cajun selection or two.

30 W. Streetsboro St. (Hudson) 330-6501717 $$$ L, D, A, T

Rose Villa American menu. 368 Portage Lakes Dr. (Portage Lakes) 330-644-5522 $$$ L, D, A, T Rosewood Grill Seasonally inspired with the fresh appeal of a local farmer’s market.

Happy hour, Mon. - Fri., 3-6 p.m. 36 E. Streetsboro St. (Hudson) 330-656-2100 $$$$ L (Fri/Sat only), D, A, T Rush Hour Bar & Grill American menu.

8870 Darrow Rd. (Twinsburg) 330-425-3221 $$ L, D, A, T Russo’s Unique cuisine featuring Cajun and Italian influences. Fine-dining atmosphere.

4895 State Rd. (Peninsula) 330-923-2665 $$$$ L, D, A, T Rusty Nail Casual atmosphere serving quality steak, seafood and chicken. 7291 State Route 43 (Kent) 330-673-2297 $$$ D, A, T Saffron Patch Features fine Indian cuisine including tandoori chicken, gingerseasoned yellow lentils and garlic naan. 1224 Weathervane Lane (Akron) 330-836-7777 $$$ L, D, A, T Sakura Fresh sushi served daily. Wide selection of specialty rolls. 3900 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330-670-0288 $$$ L, D, T Samira Formerly the River Brasserie & Bar. Menu features chef-inspired entrées, casual comfort foods and tavern-style appetizers.

Closed Sundays. 2291 Riverfront Pkwy.

(Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-4233 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Sarah’s Vineyard Sample high-quality wines, appetizers, sandwiches and desserts in the tasting room, on the deck or in the butterfly garden. Open Wednesday-Sunday.

1204 W. Steels Corners Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-8057 $$ L, D, A Schwebel Garden Room Fine dining on the KSU campus. (Kent) 330-672-2583 $$$ L, D, A, T Sisters Century House Historic Canal Fulton building overlooks Ohio Canal. Known for twice-baked potatoes. 123 S. Canal St. (Canal Fulton) 330-854-9914 $$ B, L, D, T Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition. Drive-in burgers, fast fare. 2781 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Rd. (Green) 330-896-9350; 3296 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-721-8561 $ L, D, T Spaghetti Warehouse Generous portions, Italian favorites and a unique atmosphere. Eat in an old railroad car or a converted bed. 510 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-374-0025, 888-485-5510 $$ L, D, A, T Stables Restaurant & Hall of Fame Grille Unique atmosphere in former Timken estate stables, just a few blocks from the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Perfect for sports fans. 2317 13th St. NW (Canton) 330-452-1230 $$$ L, D, A, T Steak on a Stone Steaks, seafood and poultry served on volcanic stone heated to more than 750 degrees. Sunday brunch.145 Montrose West Ave. (Copley) 330-665-2929 $$$$ L, D, A, T Steinly’s Down-home breakfasts are a mainstay. 235 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: South) 330-773-6422 $ B, L, D, T

Steve’s Dakota Grill Upscale casual NW lodge setting with prime-rib specialty voted Best of the Best. Fresh seafood daily. 2809 Pearl Rd. (Medina) 330-725-6288 $$$$ L, D, A, T No credit cards Stew Pot Kitchen Serves soups, stews, slow-cooked meals, beer-flavored brats and more. Menu changes daily. Weekly specials offer unique flavors and pairings. Closed weekends. 30 N. High St (Akron: Downtown) 330-376-7839 $ L, D, T Sugo Modern Italian Bistro The newest restaurant operated by Chef Louis Prpich, proprietor of Chowder House Café.

Sugo offers a seasonal menu, bar menu, wine dinners and nightly fixed-price 4-course dinners that include wine, coffee and dessert.

Closed Sundays. 2485 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 234-678-7153 $$$$ L, D, A, T Sweet Pea Café Traditional breakfast fare plus homemade granola, omelets and frittatas.

Soup, salad, sandwiches, mac and cheese and meatloaf, all made from scratch. 117 Merz Blvd.

(Fairlawn) 330-794-7952 $$ B, L, T Swensons Drive In Voted best cheeseburger in America. Signature burger is the Galley Boy. 658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-8515; 40 S. Hawkins Ave. (Akron: West) 330-864-8416; 4466 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-678-7775; 40 Brookmont Rd. (Montrose) 330-665-1858; 5815 Wales Ave. (Jackson Twp.) 330-833-5454; 1558 N. Main St. (North Canton) 330-499-9494 $ L, D, T Taco Tontos Funky, college atmosphere featuring authentic Mexican cuisine made from scratch. Good selection of vegetarian dishes. 123 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330-677-0223 $$ L, D, T Tai Wah Popular area Chinese takeout, dine in also. Nice lunch buffet. 5835 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-528-0888 $$ L, D, A, T Tangier Restaurant Occasionally featuring live entertainment from around the country. Elaborate décor. Quality steaks and seafood. 532 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-376-7171, 800-826-4437 $$$$ D, A, T, V Taste of Bangkok & Sushi Bar Run by brother and sister duo. Menu includes curries, noodle dishes and hand-rolled sushi.

Variety of lunch specials. 514 E. Exchange St. (Akron: University Park) 330-252-2270 L, D, T Tequila Pancho’s Many flavors of margaritas. 5893 Akron-Cleveland Rd. (Boston Heights) 330-342-9401 $$ L, D, A, T 3 Point Upscale casual American dining with a gourmet twist. Hand-cut steaks, pastas, and fresh chicken and seafood. Craft beers from around the world, boutique wine list. 45 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-535-6410 $$$ L, D, A, T, V 356th Fighter Group World War IItheme restaurant, casual fine dining, locally owned and operated. 4919 Mt. Pleasant Rd. (North Canton) 330-494-3500, 800-994-2662 $$$ L, D, A, T Thyme the Restaurant Fine dining.

Contemporary cuisine with worldly influences, served in an upscale, modern setting. 716 N. Court St. (Medina) 330-674-4114 $$$$ L, D, A, T Tong-Tong First Chinese restaurant in Hudson/Stow area. Family-style dining. 1646 Norton Rd. (Stow) 330-655-2550 $$ L, D, A, T

Totally Cooked To Go Market Adjacent to the catering offices. Casual comfort food menu that changes weekly. 2730 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-9964 $$ B, L, D, A, T Trackside Grille at Quaker Square Train-themed restaurant with three actual railroad cars inside. 135 S. Broadway St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-4541 $$ L, D, T Triple Crown Restaurant Landmark fine-dining. Certified Angus beef house.

Also serves pastas and seafood. Signature dishes include sesame seared ahi tuna. Closed Mondays. 335 S. Main St. Rt 91 (Munroe Falls) 330-633-4200 $$$ L, D, A, T Twigs Diner Don’t let the small exterior fool you. There’s plenty of room inside. Everything from burgers to breakfast specials. 334 31st St. NW (Norton) 330-825-1016 $ B, L, T No credit cards Urban Eats - A Pop Art Cafe A variety of specialties, including Asian chicken wraps, paninis and “the best little Mexican pizza you’ve ever had.” Open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. only. 51 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-310-7135 $ L, A, V Vaccaro’s Trattoria One of the area’s bestkept Italian secrets. 1000 Ghent Rd. (Montrose) 330-666-6158 $$$$ L, D, A, T Valley Café Owned by a five-star gourmet chef. Features friendly service, dishes made from scratch and famous cabbage soup. 1212 Weathervane Lane (Merriman Valley) 330-8650101 $ B, L, T The Valley Inn This one-time country roadhouse has been transformed into a family hot-spot. The prime rib is gigantic. 15004 Portage St. (Doylestown) 330-658-9859 $$$ L, D, A, T VegiTerranean Akronite and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Chrissie Hynde’s awardwinning restaurant. Deliciously indulgent gourmet vegan fare with a modern Italian flair. 21 Furnace St. at Northside Lofts (Akron: Downtown) 330-374-5550 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Village Gardens Restaurant and Pub Family restaurant serving homemade meals, including house-favorites Macedonian bean soup, chicken vlaki and chicken paprikash.

Full-service lounge. 2437 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-5751 $ B, L, D, A, T Virtues Signature foods such as a tempura calamari appetizer. Specialty pizzas, filet mignon and other gourmet items with high nutritional values. 525 E. Market St. (in Akron City Hospital’s Ann and David Brennan CCU) 330-375-7444 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Vito’s An Italian Grill in the old-country style.

395 N. Aurora Rd. (Aurora) 330-562-6010 $$$ A, T V-Li’s Cuisine Thai dishes. 129 N. Canal St. (Canal Fulton) 330-854-5344 $$ L, D, A, T Wally Waffle Quaint breakfast place, perfect for Sunday brunch. 338 Locust St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-762-3388; 750 Darrow Rd. (Tallmadge) 330-633-7400 $ B, L, T Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse Sensational hibachi steakhouse and sushi bar.

Chefs prepare food right before your eyes. 150 Montrose West Ave. (Copley) 330-666-5522; 6338 Strip Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-9668866 $$$$ L, D, T Waterloo Restaurant Eclectic menu.

Famous for the Waterloo Big Apple and French onion soup. 423 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: South) 330-773-5158 $$ B, L, D, T

West Side Bakery In addition to cookies, pastries and cakes, the bakery also carries a variety of breakfast items including scones, muffins and yogurt parfaits. Sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups served at lunch. 2303 W. Market St. (Akron: Pilgrim’s Square) 330836-4101 $ B, L, T Whitehouse Chicken A Barberton tradition. 180 Wooster Rd. N. (Barberton) 330-745-0449; 1948 Portage Trail (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-945-6555; 1941 Triplet (Ellet) 330-784-3000; 4195 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-5644; 137 East Ave. (Tallmadge) 330633-4001; 199 Great Oaks Trail (Wadsworth) 330-335-6000 $$ L, D, T No credit cards Whitey’s Booze N’ Burgers Famous chili, generous portions and live entertainment on the weekends. 3600 Brecksville Rd. (Richfield) 330-659-3600 $$ L, D, A No credit cards Wild Goats Coffee & Café Offers light entrées, vegan and vegetarian soups, and exceptional coffee. 319 W. Main St. (Kent) 330677-2326 $$ B, L, D, T Winking Lizard Come to see the lizard, stay for the extensive beer selection and outdoor patio. 25 Ghent Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-836-6129; 1615 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-467-1002; 5710 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-497-1133 $$$ L, D, A, T Yellowtail Japanese-style seafood and sushi buffet. 4054 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-6669988 $$$$ L, D, A, T Yocono’s Homey, Italian restaurant with reasonable prices. 1666 W. Exchange St. (Akron: West) 330-867-5550 $$ B, L, D, A, T

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

Casual Dining at its Finest...

'DLO\ 'ULQN 'LQQHU 6SHFLDOV

5HVHUYDWLRQV $FFHSWHG +XGVRQ 1 0DLQ 6W 0RQWURVH 0HGLQD 5G

ZZZ KXGVRQVUHVWDXUDQW FRP &RPSOLPHQWDU\ 6PDOO +RXVH &KLS :LWK WKH 3XUFKDVH RI (QWUHHV

1RW YDOLG ZLWK DQ\ RWKHU RIIHUV 0XVW SUHVHQW RULJLQDO FRXSRQ WR UHGHHP 9DOLG WKURXJK 2WKHU UHVWULFWLRQV PD\ DSSO\

by Abby Cymerman

small bite

Who Says There Are No Free Rides?

>>

Catch a free ride to lunch every Friday in downtown Akron by waving down the red-and-green trolley or finding the Trolley Stop signs on Main Street. From 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., riders will receive a coupon for discounts at downtown restaurants, including 3 Point, Akron City Club Bistro, Appeteazers Waterside Deli, Barley House, Bricco, Brubaker’s Pub, Cilantro, Crave, Davinci’s, Diamond Deli, Hattie’s Café, House of Hunan, I.C. Sweets Ice Cream, The Lockview, Mocha Maiden, Papa’s Food to Go, The Peanut Shoppe, Pita Pit, Spaghetti Warehouse, Suki’s International Cuisine, Urban Eats, VegiTerranean, Wafa’s and Wing Warehouse. The free lunch trolleys are sponsored by Downtown Akron Partnership and the City of Akron.

www.akronlife.com

73

parting shot

‘Behind the Brain Plaza’ / Sculpture creator Brinsley Tyrrell, Kent State University; shot by Andy Prisbylla /

>>

Photographer bio: Andy Prisbylla is a student studying Non-Profit Management & Fundraising at Kent State University. Originally from Steubenville, Prisbylla says that he has been a lot of things in his short time on this planet: pizza cook, librarian, graphic designer, cartoonist, writer, but that photography “is where my heart lies.” He immediately fell in love with Behind the Brain Plaza for its figurative nature and straightforward approach. “On a campus filled with abstract, esoteric public sculptures that scream for the viewer to interpret their meaning, the Brain Plaza creates a uniquely honest and simplistic voice that most artists are afraid to use.” Prisbylla wanted his documentation to be just as honest, which is why he chose black and white for his aesthetic.

Go to akronlife.com for a slideshow on sculpture artist Brinsley Tyrrell and the making of Behind the Brain Plaza.

74

akronlife

may 2011

Concierge service from your bank?

Yes, we have that.

Wealth Management Services At FirstMerit, we have a team of experts waiting and ready to help you meet your financial needs. Imagine making one call to your Private Banker who, in turn, will call upon a team of specialists who provide active advice in investment management, estate and retirement planning, and banking. It’s wealth management with a concierge touch.

Contact Leigh Gerstenberger at 1-888-384-6388

|

firstmerit.com/mywealth

At FirstMerit, you’ll have a full range of products and services to meet your business, investment, and personal financial needs.

Securities and Insurance products are Not FDIC insured; May lose value; Not bank guaranteed; Not a deposit; Not insured by any federal or state government agency.

Securities offered through FirstMerit Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA, SIPC; Advisory Services offered through FirstMerit Advisors, Inc.; Insurance products offered through FirstMerit Insurance Agency, Inc., subsidiary companies of FirstMerit Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.