May 2015

Kosar’s Wood-Fired Grill / Akron Bike Party Founder Dave Massary

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Be a u t y Gu i d e

Stan Hywet

100 years later

A retrospective p look at The 330’s ico onic Estate

Look the Part A stray comment probes the question of essence

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Explore Medina County

Travel Beyond The 330

Three local family businesses have passed the torch from one generation to the next

Itineraries for a quick weekend jaunt

Don Drumm’s 80th Birthday Celebration

We’re Your Back Yard

Go out and ENJOY! May 1 to June 30

“ Completing the spree is a source of pride.” ~ Regina Lewis, recreation specialist,

Complete five trails to receive a lanyard and pin. (Veteran hikers earn a pin.)

United Disability Services

Enjoy your Metro Parks on flat, easy trails — good for strollers, wheelchairs, walkers and canes.

Hiking forms are available online and at Acme Fresh Markett stores.

Spree rewards are FREE for Summit County residents.

330-865-8065 | summitmetroparks.org | #summitmetroparks

may 2015 / vol. 13 / issue 5

PAGES start here

On The Cover

/ 38 The English Garden at Stan Hywet

Stan Hywet Manor House viewed from the Great Garden.

Feature

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Not For Us Alone Stan Hywet celebrates 100 years

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pages

14 around town

58 untapped

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agenda

Departments

6

/ Mail Bonding

7

/ From the Editor

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/ Radar (Seen + Heard)

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17 Entertainment listings & Calendar of events 20 FLASH: Don Drumm’s 80th Birthday 26 FLASH: Cleveland International Film Festival, Knight and Day in Akron 30 FLASH: The Lippman School Celebrates 50 years

/ The Gamut Look the Part A stray comment probes the question of essence

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/ The Interview Dave Massary Founder, Akron Bike Party

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/ Around Town The Ruhlin Company Celebrates 100 years

Special Sections

/ Agenda

57

/ 44 Travel & Summer Fun Adventure is out there

/ 54 Beauty Guide Embracing Beauty

/ 67 Medina County

/ Good Eats (notable food & drink) 57 Restaurant listings 58 Untapped: Breckenridge Brewery: Breck IPA 62 Big Bite: Kosar’s WoodFired Grill: A football-inspired steakhouse 66 Uncorked: Michael David Winery

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mail bonding

Tell us what's on your mind.

The Gamut: Getting the Boot / Temple Israel Celebrates 150 Years

volume 1 3 / issue 4

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PETS THERAPY ANIMALS OF THE 330

Home & Garden

The Anchorage: Inside one of Akron’s amazing homes Hannah from the Doggie Brigade at Akron Children’s Hospital

Realtors: President’s Sales Club

Go Red For Women

Education

Interview

Apps, Summer Camps and Recommended Reads

Tom Malone, President and CEO of Summa Health System

C Comments?

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

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Publisher Colin Baker cbaker@bakermediagroup.com

Editor-in-Chief Don Baker Jr.

For all of you who voted for your favorite local businesses in the 330, we are excited to announce your winners of the 2015 "Best of the City" competition in our upcoming July issue! Everyone that took the time to vote is eligible to win one of our many great prizes. Be sure to visit www.akronlife.com and keep checking our Facebook page for details and updates.

http:// p // from the web In response to what our readers look forward to doing most in the summer around The 330: Pam Darkow: Exploring the metro parks, Lock 3 concerts, beach

combing along the north coast, kayaking and canoeing .... water, sun and music in The 330!

Benjamin Rexroad: Walking! Kyle Jozsa and I love walking around the city and exploring new areas! [Benjamin was one of the lucky winners of two Cleveland International Film Festival tickets]

dbakerjr@bakermediagroup.com

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

Editorial Associate Molly Gase mgase@bakermediagroup.com

Contributing Writers Abby Cymerman Gailmarie K. Fort Aaron Fowler Julie Leone Emily Mangano Rick Rodger Rodney Wilson Graphic Designer Christa Allen graphics@bakermediagroup.com

Photographer Shane Wynn swynn@bakermediagroup.com

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

Carla Anderson: Food and drinks on the patio after a day in the Circulation Jessica Burkhart

Summit Metro Parks!

jburkhart@bakermediagroup.com

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

Look for these special features in upcoming issues.

In June, look for our Foodie Feature on Appetizers, Canton Living, Boomers' Guide and our Home and Garden section.

In July, look for our Best of the City feature, Heath and Wellness, Financial Planning and our Home and Garden section.

In August, look for our Cool Jobs feature, Best Lawyers, Education MBA Programs and our Neighborhood: Twinsburg section.

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

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330-253-0056 ext. 112 May 2015, Volume 13, Issue 5 (ISSN No. 74470 57871) akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313. Copyright 2014 © by Baker Media Group, LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission.

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from the editor

Journey into Pair-a-dice >> This isn’t my first trip to Las Vegas, or as my friend Dave King calls it, “Lost Wages.” The Convention and Trade Show center of the universe shifted from Chicago sometime in the 1970s to Las Vegas.

My first ever recollection of Las Vegas was in 1966 when I stayed at the old Stardust Hotel at the end of the Las Vegas Strip. Back then you could rent small, one-room cabins cheaply, that contained a bedroom, small kitchenette and a bathroom. There were rooms inside these hotels as well, but they were more expensive so us plebes had to sleep in the back of the casino. The trade show was being held in the newly constructed Las Vegas Convention Center, just a few blocks away and a cab cost $1.25 with tip to get there from the hotel.

did four guys do on a Wednesday afternoon between trade shows? We rented an off-road dune buggy, of course. When we asked the attendant where we could ride the buggy, he waved his hand in the general direction of the desert and said, “It’s all yours.”

In 1970 my friend Bob Cusick had been assigned to cover an automotive rebuilding trade show in Las Vegas at the same time I was covering an automotive speed equipment show for the same publishing company. Since this combined show was big, all the publishing company heads were in attendance; including their first born sons, Matt and James. I had been assigned to cover the speed equipment trade show the week before the rebuilding trade show began, and had been asked to fill in at the rebuilding show the week afterward.

Now, I am an experienced driver of race cars, dune buggies and golf carts. My friend, Bob Cusick (for whom I would later drive his Venus Formula Vee race cars) was a car nut and had himself driven in a few races. James and Matt were newbies whose only connection to the car business was that their fathers owned the publishing company. They were on vacation, more or less.

Matt was later diagnosed with schizophrenia, but was on meds. James was an ambitious teenager who would later become vice president of a big automotive aftermarket company.

On this last trip to Las Vegas, my wife Nancy and I rode a doubledecker bus back to our hotel from one of the shows and a young girl, holding an exotic drink in a meter-long stemmed glass, said “I’ve been here too long.”

“How long have you been here?” I asked.

“Five days. I told them Las Vegas is only a three-day trip.” she replied.

So, with the two trade shows combined, I had spent nine days in the desert traveling between hotel, convention center, hospitality suites and casinos. I saw several shows, one of which - Ike and Tina Turner was memorable, while the others just blur together over time. I did see Elvis during a different visit and bumped into Frank Sinatra coming out of one of the big hotels. He was in a hurry and I could see that I was in his way, so I bowed to him as I gave way to his entourage.

Frank gave me his trademark scowl and handed me $50.

We didn’t see any celebrities this trip, though we did have dinner with writer, director, producer and actor, Joe Zucherro and his wife Josey. They both live in Las Vegas after a nearly 40-year stay in the Philippines and work at the MGM Grand. Joe and I were great friends in high school and both moved to California at the same time. Joe went to film school at USC and I was a beach bum studying art and poetry at the University of California at Long Beach. He moved to Manila after film school and I had babies, moved back to Kent and continued a budding writing career.

So, back in 1970, between trade shows during my nine-day stay in Las Vegas, I realized that I was really bored. I’d seen the shows, gambled away my allotment of money and taken in the opulence that was Sin City. I am, to this day, surprised at how quickly this glitz and glamour can become normal and the opposite becomes the unusual. So, what

Bob rode shotgun, with Matt and James in the back. There were no seat belts and the only thing to hold on to was the chrome rollbar.

The buggy, with four adults, was heavy but the small VW engine gave us enough power to get air borne over a series of whoop-de-doos down one dune and back up another. Darkness comes quickly in the desert and before I knew it I needed the headlights to show the trail, or in this case, lack of one. The only time I felt we were in trouble was when the left front tire dug into the sand as we landed awkwardly and would have overturned had it not been for the people in the back. Bob, through his wisdom, suggested we head back to the hotel since we had almost killed the two sons of our employer. But Matt especially had fun, saying later after spending years in mental hospitals, that the ride was the best time he’d had in his entire life.

This year, Nancy and I took cabs and rode the double-decker bus up and down the strip. We rented a car for our last day and visited the Hoover Dam. In years past we had rented a car and gone to Death Valley California, one of the wonders of the world. I was often in bed by 9:30 p.m. as Nancy stayed up to watch movies. We meant to gamble during this trip, but we forgot. I haven’t gambled during most of my trips to the city even when it was the only game in the country.

The years have changed me and Las Vegas; we are both much tamer and wanting to go to bed early is no sin.

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

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may 2015 / vol. 13 / issue 5

RADAR seen+heard

Student Art Inspired from Science Buchtel High School’s biology teacher, Elizabeth Terrill, is conducting a new kind of study in her classroom considered to be “biohealth” learning. Her students are using the school’s first microscope camera to study and take pictures of different specimens, some of which include infectious diseases that are no longer alive. The students are then creating beautiful pieces of art from the photographs they’re taking e under the microscope. You can purchase an image by donating towards the Buchtel PTA Scholarship. For more information visit sites.google.com/a/buchtelclc. org/biohealth-microart-show/ for more detials.

Stow and Munroe Falls Honor Active Military and Veterans Orders e are now being accepted for banners that will be printed onto 4-foot long vinyl to hang in Stow and Munroe Falls honoring active military participants and veterans. The banners can be purchased for $125 and will list the military personnel’s name, connections to the area, and when they served. The banners will hang until Veterans Day in November and will then be presented to the people that purchased them. Contact Stow’s representative, Jordan Warfield, at 330-689-2814 or jwarfield@stow.oh.us. Contact Munroe Fall’s representative, Anne DiCola, at 330688-7491 or adicola@munroefalls.com.

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city watch

by Rodney Wilson Mycobacter y rium Tuberculosi ube cu osis

The city of Kent’s yearold county courthouse is suffering from crumbling steps and sidewalks and cracking

interior floors. City officials say the brand-new building has felt dated in recent months anyway, proposing demolition and a new building project.

Akron’s years-long battle with a vandal who uses his own feces, took a step forward recently as the serial pooper was photographed in the act. In related

news, experts say the local job market for 12-year-old boys seeking journalism work has never been better.

Bacillus Anthracis MIYA

United Way of Summit County will be naming Jim Mullen as their new president and CEO on May 4th replacing retiree Bob Kulinski, who has served since 2000.

Seniors at an Akron assisted living center experienced fifteen minutes of fame after creating a nude calendar of themselves to raise money for charity. “What

calendar?” said a participant, commenting on his involvement.

An Akron woman was recently arrested for stabbing her boyfriend in the pelvis after an argument over chips and salsa. Council for the accused is said

to be building a case against the victim, well-known in snack circles as a “double-dipper.”

Josephine Wright, a professor at The College of Wooster, has recently been recognized by the Society for American Music with the 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award.

may 2015

Kent State recently contracted a creative services agency to assist the school in rebranding efforts. With marijuana

legalization initiatives gaining ground, university officials encouraged the PR firm to consider the school’s local landscape as a draw for potential students.

The 330's Most Stolen Magazine

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the gamut

by Rodney Wilson and illustration by Christa Allen

Look the Part

/ A stray comment probes the question of essence /

When I was first offered this column back in the dark ages of 2013, the assignment was both a dream and a nightmare: I was tasked to write about, you know, whatever.

The subjects I explored with my blinking cursor and dying laptop battery were to run the gamut (get it?). For me, personally, I use the space to extrapolate on whatever notion has my attention at any given time, and it’s under this latter parameter that I offer you, reader, a glimpse at what I’ve been thinking lately.

"

The other day, a friend described me to someone else as looking “like a writer,” and I can’t figure out what the hell that means.

I am a writer. For a long time, I bucked against saying that, partly because I’m overcautious about labeling myself anything, partly because I’ve often felt one doesn’t call oneself “writer” until achieving a greater level of literary accomplishment than my scrabbling little freelance career has afforded me. But of late I’ve said, “I’m a writer,” a few times and didn’t hate it: I’m trained to write, I write often, ergo.

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But the notion of “looking like a writer” to someone else introduces a new angle to the quandary, one I really don’t know what to do with. I know that, in my function as a writer, I recently produced a piece on hog breeding for an online outlet, a series of branded articles for a major automobile manufacturer, monthly Gamuts and City Watches; I wrote a young adult novel some time back and, in my attempts to sell it, recently composed various, preform letters and other “salesy” peripherals for distribution to potential partners in getting the thing out there. I write as often propped up in bed or on the couch as I do in my Big Lots office chair before my top-drop desk; showering or non-pajama clothes aren’t required to perform the task of composition. My suspicion is that, when I write what I write, I probably don’t look “like a writer.”

So do I carry myself in the way of a writer? You know how Plato defined the notion of essence as possessing

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a set of predefined characteristics? Maybe I possess some prescribed set of writer’s ideals: has inkstained fingers, carries a scuffed and threadbare soul inside his chest, wears black glasses. But I’m a Sartre man myself, so I have to believe that existence trumps essence; my portfolio of past work, and my definition of self in relation to said portfolio, make me a writer.

I think, though, the root of what I’m trying to puzzle out lies in a realization I came to recently: I lack a fixed notion of self. Do you have a fixed notion of self, reader? I’ll explain.

You know how some people go to work, come home to the family, enjoy a ballgame on the weekends, and when they look at the facets of their life in a moment of quiet reflection say, “Yes. This is me”? I don’t have that. I’ve manned a corporate desk, run a small business, farmed a tiny parcel of land, married the love of my life, fathered a gaggle of children, and produced a downright schizophrenic body of written work, but I can’t seem to really nail down who I am. There’s a part of me that believes I should be shepherding a small flock of sheep in the French countryside right now, and I say that in full and total honesty.

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This is where gaining a comfort level with calling myself “writer,” and perhaps accepting that it’s essential to my notion of self, really gains some heft because, when I glance over my shoulder at the road behind me, or strain my vision for a peek at the path ahead, I see myself writing. Unshowered, pajama-clad and composing in the suburbs of my past, the pastures of my present, the rolling French hillsides of my future (fingers crossed). If I’m ever to gain a fixed notion of myself, it’s probably going to be through acceptance of my role in this world as a writer.

/ Rodney Wilson is either a pig farmer who writes or a writer who farms pigs. Either way, he’s got a freezer full of bacon and a finished manuscript, and he’s trying to sell both.

Comments?

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And, really, I do understand that the “fixed notion of self ” is largely a construct of sitcoms and hour-long dramas. While I’m sure a percentage of folks stroll out the door self-assured and confident, I don’t believe that percentage is large. We watch our kids grow, interests shift, careers change, waistlines evolve and we wonder, the whole time, who we really are underneath everything. For me, I think there’s a writer under there, and I don’t hate admitting that. To myself, I mean—apparently, everybody else already knew.

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the interview

by Abby Cymerman and photo by Shane Wynn

Dave Massary / Founder, Akron Bike Party /

Every day, as a child, Dave Massary would watch the opening of the movie, “Rad,” because he loved cycling so much. Little did he know he would be hosting his own regular bike parties as an adult.

On the third Friday of every month, Massary leads the Akron Bike Party on a 10- to 12-mile bike ride throughout our community. The event, which celebrates its first anniversary this month, attracts young and old, beginner cyclists and advanced riders, as well as community “groupies” along the route.

There are more than 30 Bike Parties worldwide, and Massary was introduced to the concept while visiting a friend in San Jose last winter.

“We rode 20 miles around the city with thousands of riders, listening to music, bikes blaring tunes throughout the evening. I was blown away,” he says. “I couldn’t stop smiling. It was an amazing experience. David encouraged me to get Akron Bike Party going.”

“Cycling in Akron is great because it’s growing so much here, the towpath is wonderful, Summit Cycling Center, and the bike shops rule.”

Tell our readers a bit about yourself: Are you originally from Akron? If not, where did you come from?

DM: I am originally from Warren.

Before settling down here, my wife 12

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and I lived in Youngstown, Columbus and in Cleveland Heights. We’ve been living in Fairlawn for the past 10 years. We absolutely love it here. Akron/Summit County is a wonderful place to live.

My wife’s name is Jana and we have two boys; Ethan is 10 and Luke is 7.

When did you first become interested in cycling?

DM: I was nuts about riding bikes as a kid.

Unfortunately, I pretty much quit riding when I turned 16. I began cycling again last year. Riding bikes with friends is an unbelievable feeling. We have the best time on our Bike Party group rides.

How do you choose the route each month?

DM: It’s difficult because Akron is so hilly. The routes are usually based on what neighborhoods we haven’t rolled through yet or what Akron Landmark we haven’t been too yet. We’ve been through The University of Akron many times, Stan Hywet, Swenson’s, different parts of the towpath, Highland Square, Glendale Cemetery and we usually go over the Y-Bridge and back. Returning to downtown Akron from North Hill on the Y-bridge at night is probably my favorite Akron Bike Party experience. It’s an amazing feeling and a wonderful view of the city.

How does the Akron Bike Party work in the winter? Is that safe?

DM: Riding in the winter is cold. So far it’s been safe and only a small number of us ride. We still have a blast. If the roads are really bad, we would cancel the ride.

If we want to join the ride, do we need to invest in spandex?

DM: Haha, there’s no need to invest in spandex unless that’s your thing. We are all so different and so similar on Bike Party. Some ride a lot, some ride a little. We all have different backgrounds and different lives, but on Bike Party, we are together in just having fun, meeting new people and letting go of it all for a few hours.

Is the Akron Bike Party just for adults, or can kids ride too? Is there a fee to participate?

How much has the bike party grown since it began? What are your goals for the group?

DM: The ride has grown so much in our first year. We have many volunteers and riders and the community has really embraced us when we roll through neighborhoods and downtown. Our goals are to get more people in the community involved in the ride, themes, artistic flyers, course design, and on the ride (leading, corner guides, sweeping etc...). We’re striving to someday have food trucks, bands and DJs at mid-ride regroups. That is a dream of mine. The San Jose Bike Party has huge regroups with food, music and entertainment.

It’s an absolute blast. SJBP is our inspiration and they are so supportive.

Do you participate in Bike Party every month, or are you a behind-the-scenes kind-of guy?

DM: I do participate in every ride and am behind the scenes. I pull a huge speaker in a trailer with my bike during the rides. It’s so fun.

When I’m not leading the pack, my day job is ...

DM: I do a little bit of everything from fixing toilets, working on computers/databases, reading stories, shoveling snow, bus driving, gardening, to washing dishes. My wife and I own and operate The Primrose School of Hudson. We’ve been open for two years and it’s been crazy and wonderful at the same time.

If you could invite any celebrity to join the Akron Bike Party, who would it be, and why?

DM: On just about every ride the children in the community yell out “Bikeparty!” and they always ask “Where’s LeBron?” The community would absolutely love to see that.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

DM: Summit Cycling Center has helped us out so much. We are partnering with them again for some exciting things in 2015. Oh and “BIKEPARTY!” Comments?

Email them to Molly Gase at mgase@bakermediagroup.com.

DM: Everyone is always invited. The ride is 10 hilly miles, so if you can handle that, join the ride. We’ve had many kids on rides. Kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

There’s no fee.

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around town

By Molly Gase

From the ground up

/ For the past century, The Ruhlin Company has been building The 330 / The Ruhlin Company has not just been a part of the Greater Akron Area for the last century, they have been building the Greater Akron Area. When driving around the community, their work surrounds you. 100 years of projects are seen in classrooms, hospital wings, health and wellness centers, and blood donation centers.

Jim Ruhlin, President and CEO, has watched building after building go up in the area throughout his life. His grandfather founded the company 100 years ago, passing the leadership of it down to his sons and grandsons. Ruhlin is the third generation and 6th president to lead the company, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, uncle, father and brother. “They began a path of growth [that] I’m trying to continue, of becoming more than just a building company and offering a full range of General Contracting, Construction Management and Design/Build services to serve the healthcare, education, government, commercial, energy, environmental, transportation, industrial and structural steel markets,” says Ruhlin.

The Ruhlin Company’s first headquarters were located at 1024 Home Avenue in Akron.

The company then moved to III Cascade Plaza in 1969, and to 200 North ClevelandMassillion Road in 1983. In 1989 they moved to their current home in Sharon Center, on a

plot of land that Ruhlin says was actually purchased in 1962.

Though their headquarters have remained in the area for the last century, their reach for projects has expanded past the 330. “We are very committed to serving the Greater Akron Area and want to remain close to our founding roots. From this home though, we are continuing to expand our reach with projects in the surrounding states - Illinois (railroad bridge in Chicago), Michigan (railroad bridge in Monroe), and Indiana (work at Emmet J. Bean Federal Center in Indianapolis). We have even had temporary branches in some of these other areas, in order to best serve clients locally as our idea of “local” expands,” says Ruhlin.

Each successful project has generated more business for Ruhlin. “What stands out is that most of our clients, 90 percent, are so happy with one project that they work with us again and again.” This has spawned projects across the campuses of Akron General

Medical Center and The University of Akron.

“We’ve been building on the campus of Akron General Medical Center since 1973, completing more than $200 million of work including the Emergency Department, Heart and Vascular Center, two health and wellness centers, medical office buildings, parking decks and more,” says Ruhlin.

In the late ‘50s, Ruhlin says that the company started industrial and civil divisions so that they could be a full-service construction provider across markets. These two divisions have helped them over the years to navigate through rough economic waters.

“We diversified into different marketplaces, which has helped us navigate through some down markets because when one market is down, another one might be up,” says Ruhlin.

Their first civil project was along the old State Route 5, near Easton Ohio and their first hydro project was the Shenango Dam in Pennsylvania. Currently, the company is working with American Municipal Power to design

Far Left: American Municipal Power Willow Island Hydroelectric Powerhouse on the Ohio River.

Left: Jim Ruhlin, President and CEO

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and build the Willow Island Powerhouse and cofferdams on the Ohio River. “There are a lot of geotechnical issues in these projects, which requires specialized expertise, and that makes it very exciting for us.”

Though the reach of their projects stretches beyond the 330, the company employs many in this area. “We provide income for a lot of members of the community. That money stays in the community. We want a successful project because we live and work here,” says Ruhlin. 82 percent of the company is owned by its employees, which Ruhlin says motivates everyone to do their best. “We implemented an Employee Stock Ownership Plan in 1977 to give employee-owners a clear stake in the company’s success. It shows that we’re all in this together, and this teamwork mentality is really what makes the difference at Ruhlin.”

The future for Ruhlin will include adapting to the ever-changing technology and automation that are a part of the construction industry.

However, Jim Ruhlin is optimistic about the next 100 years. “If we continue to work hard, work together as a team, hold close to our founding values, and learn from 100 years of projects before us, I expect us to continue to grow.”

Barberton Industrial Arts High School 1940

Current projects for Ruhlin include the trench for US Route 23 in Columbus, replacement of the old Inner Belt Bridge in Cleveland, the Kent Police Station, updates to Kent State University’s campus, as well as many more projects.

As the company celebrates their 100th year in business, they will be sharing memories of their past that will include videos highlighting the people-focused culture as well as an anniversary website. Visit the website at www. ruhlin.com/100.

/ Writer Molly Gase is a new basset hound parent, who quotes movies a little too frequently.

Creston School 1915

Comments?

Email them to Molly Gase at mgase@bakermediagroup.com.

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may 2015 / vol. 13 / issue 5

AGENDA the essential social digest

FOR A LIST OF THE MAY RUBBER D UCKS GAMES GO TO WWW. AKRONRUBBERDUCKS . COM

5/23 SPRING BIRD WALK New and experienced birdwatchers join a naturalist for a spring bird walk in Liberty Park this season. Binoculars are recommended. Liberty Park, Twinsburg Ledges Area 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg.

8:30-10:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

T HROUGH 5/30 28TH A NNUAL I NTERNATIONAL E XHIBITION This year’s 28th show features work by Belgian painter PaulHenri Bourguignon, who’s work highlights memories and social situations experienced from his extensive travels to Haiti and Peru. Also on view are works acquired by Gallerist, Meg Harris Stanton from her trips to England and France. Harris Stanton Gallery, 2301 West Market Street, Akron. For details, visit www.

HarrisStantonGallery.com.

5/8 VOICES IN THE VALLEY PRESENTS T HE S TUMPY B ASIN VOLUNTEERS The Peninsula Foundation supports the Arts Community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music. Kick back and relax for a night of music in the Historic G.A.R. Hall. Beer, wine and adult beverages available.

G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 7 p.m. $7. www.peninsulahistory.org.

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5/14, 5/28 C ONTRA D ANCES, P 29

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

Join Us As We Celebrate

Through 5/7 “Seymour: An Introduction” Director Ethan Hawke explores the life and lessons of piano teacher Seymour Bernstein. The Nightlight Cinema, 30 North High St., Akron. For tickets and showtimes, visit www.nightlightcinema.com.

Through 5/9 “Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type” The cows on Farmer Brown’s farm have had enough! Underappreciated, they request electric blankets for the drafty barn. And so begins this musical about cows, hens and ducks going on strike. This show is most enjoyed by families ages 4 and up. Barberton High School, 555 Barber Road, Barberton. $9-$13. For showtimes, visit www.magicaltheatre.org.

Through 5/10 The Canton Artists League Spring Show: “April Assemblage” This year’s “April Assemblage” show ranges from watercolor, oils, acrylic and photography to pottery, wood carving, fiber art, mixed media, colored pencil and more.

Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. North, Canton. Free. For museum hours, visit www. cantonart.org.

Through 5/10 “An Unnecessary Farce” This is a wild, theatrical comedy written by Paul Slade Smith and directed by Marc Moritz featuring two cops, three crooks and eight doors. Thus begins a wild, theatrical night in an economy motel room where an embezzling mayor is supposed to meet with his female accountant. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. $5-$22. For showtimes, visit www.weathervaneplayhouse.org.

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Stan Hywet Presents Bloom!

The Glass Artistry of Craig Mitchell Smith June 2 - Sept. 20 the entire family and enjoy PLAYGARDEN Bring the fun adventures in Playgarden!

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Through 5/30 28th Annual International Exhibition This year’s 28th show features work by Belgian painter Paul-Henri Bourguignon, who’s work highlights memories and social situations experienced from his extensive travels to Haiti and Peru. Also on view are works acquired by Gallerist, Meg Harris Stanton from her trips to England and France. Harris Stanton Gallery, 2301 West Market Street, Akron. For details, visit www.HarrisStantonGallery.com.

Through 6/30 12th Annual Spree for All Hikers on foot and those with strollers, wheelchairs, walkers and canes can enjoy flat, easy trails during this hiking series for people of all abilities. Complete at least five hikes to receive hiking rewards. Hiking forms with the list of trails will be available starting April 15 at summitmetroparks.org, at F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, the park district’s administrative offices and all Acme Fresh Market stores in Summit County. For more information, call 330-865-8065.

5/1 Friday Firestone Feathers and Friends New and experienced birders join a naturalist for spring bird walks along the Tuscarawas River migratory flyway.

This is an excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas. Binoculars are recommended. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Road, Akron. 7:3010:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/1 Show & Tell Me a Story Kids ages 1 to 3 join a naturalist for this special 30-minute story time for tots! Registration required. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 9:3010 a.m. and 10:30-11 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065. w w w. akronlife.com

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5/1 2015 Green Fair The City of Akron and Downtown Akron Partnership are collaborating to host the 8th Annual Green & Clean Day. This event is geared towards anyone wanting to learn more about environmentally-friendly resources and products that could be used in the work place. Vendors will display a variety of safe products available on the market and demonstrate how to use them. Lock 3, 200 South Main St., Akron. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free. www. lock3live.com.

5/1 Heron Watch Join Metro Parks naturalists to celebrate Mother’s Day by observing herons and their young through our binoculars and spotting scopes.

Hampton Hills Metro Park, Bath Road Heronry, Bath and Riverview Roads, Akron. 1-3 p.m. Free. 330-8658065.

5/1 CVSR Ales on Rails Beer-Tasting Train: Battle of the Brews - East vs. West Sample a variety of brews while riding the rails through CVNP. This fun trip includes a five-sample tasting of beers and appetizers as you watch the sun set on the park.

A commemorative glass is included. Reservations required. For ages 21 and older. Akron Northside Station, 27 Ridge St, Akron. 7 p.m. $47-$82. To register, visit www.cvsr.com.

5/1 Voices in the Valley presents The Honey Dewdrops CD Release The Peninsula Foundation supports the arts community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music.

Kick back and relax for a night of music in the Historic G.A.R. Hall. Beer, wine and adult beverages available.

G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 7 p.m. $10-$15. www.peninsulahistory.org.

5/1 Heritage Concert: “Front Country” Since forming in 2011, Front Country blend everything from high-lonesome mountain music to new-wave power pop, newgrass picking, oldgrass harmonies, and just plain glorious musicality. Happy Days Lodge, 500 West Streetsboro St., Peninsula. 8-10 p.m. $5-$17. www.conservancyforcvnp. org.

5/2 Countryside Farmers’ Market at Howe Meadow A vibrant, producers-only farmers’ market established and managed by Countryside Conservancy. Howe Meadow, 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula. 9 a.m.noon. Free. www.cvcountryside.org.

5/2 Fishing for Adults Everyone 16 and older can join a naturalist to learn the basics of fishing and cast a line without having to buy a fishing license. It’s one of Ohio’s “Free Fishing Days!” Some rods and reels will be available. Bait is provided. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Road, Richfield. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

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5/2 Do the Mu!: Typewriter Art Drop in anytime between noon and 2 p.m. for a different art and history workshop taught by local artists or Museum staff. These workshops are funded by The National Endowment for the Arts, KSU Stark, Massillon/North Canton Elks, and Massillon Rotary Club. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way, East, Massillon. Noon-2 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org.

5/2 Kids Studio Class: Comic Android Lab: Where Drawings Come Alive! Who says drawings have to be flat? Take your cartooning skills to the next level by building a model based on your drawing, then use simple tools and gadgets to make your android bend, flex and defend the universe. Children ages 7 to 12. Registration required. Akron Art Museum, 1 South High Street, Akron. 1-3 p.m. $10-$15. www. akronartmuseum.org.

5/2, 5/3 Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant 50th Anniversary Tour” Best known to generations as a prolific songwriter, social commentator, master storyteller, actor and activist, Arlo Guthrie brings Alice’s Restaurant to E.J. Thomas Hall for two shows. The University of Akron’s E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 7 and 8 p.m. www.ticketmaster.com.

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5/2 Thyme for Dinner: Herbs Excited for summer cookouts? Join a naturalist for ideas about what to plant in the garden to add something new to your palate.

Registration required. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 330-8658065.

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

5/2 Small Hall Concert: Kristine Jackson The Peninsula Foundation supports the arts community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music. Kick back and relax for a night of music in the Historic G.A.R. Hall. Beer, wine and adult beverages available. G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 8 p.m. For tickets, visit www. peninsulahistory.org.

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5/2, 5/16 Point of No Return Improv An interactive comedy experience. Audience members provide inspiration in the form of suggestions from which original scenes are created. Brave volunteers may even find themselves on stage being serenaded or used as props by the cast. Quirk Cultural Center, 1201 Grant Ave, Cuyahoga Falls. 7:30 p.m. Ages 13 and up. $5. www.pnrimprov.org.

5/3 Akron Symphony Orchestra: “Rachmaninoff’s Vespers” Blending the pure beauty of ancient Russian Orthodox chant with the late Romantic language that was Rachmaninoff’s natural voice, the All-Night Vigil is unsurpassed in all the choral literature. Its inspired tone is at once majestic and ecstatic. St. Sebastian Church, 476 Mull Ave., Akron. 3:30 p.m. $7.50-$15.

For tickets, call 330-535-8131.

5/2 Woodcock Waltz Join a naturalist to watch the aerial dances of male woodcocks as they try to win the hearts of watching females. Call the seasonal info line at 330-865-8060 the day of the program for weather status. Hampton Hills Metro Park, Top O’ the World, 1285 Bath Road, Cuyahoga Falls. 8:30-9:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/3 Spring Bird Walk New and experienced birdwatchers join a naturalist to see which birds are migrating through Liberty Park, as well as the permanent residents. Binoculars are suggested.

Liberty Park, Nature Center, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. 8:30-10 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/2, 5/3 The International Battle of the Magicians This 24th annual magic, comedy and illusion show features spectacular magic acts from around the world, right before your eyes. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. North, Canton. $30. For showtimes, visit www.cantonpalacetheatre.org.

5/3 Reception for Artist Danette Rushboldt Join us in celebrating the art exhibit of Naturalist Danette Rushboldt. We are showcasing personal pieces inspired by her work at Metro Parks and her passion for capturing eclectic moments of life. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 12-2 p.m.

Free. 330-865-8065.

5/2 and 5/3 Ballet Theatre of Ohio’s “Sleeping Beauty” Enjoy elaborate sets and lavish costumes of this age-old fairy tale. Arrive early to join in the fun activities planned for the lobby of the theater before each performance. Children are welcome to come dressed as their favorite princess or prince, or their finest dress-up clothes. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 South Main St., Akron. $18-$38. For showtimes, visit www.akroncivic.com.

5/3 Hattie Larlham’s Spring Open House Explore Hattie Larlham programs and services and meet special guests R. Charles Larlham, author of “The Old Man and Me,” and Aaron Broadstreet, co-author of “Sound Bites: Life Lessons by a Boy Who Has Autism.” Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities, 9772 Diagonal Road, Mantua. 1-3 p.m.

Free. www.hattielarlham.org.

5/2, 5/3 Oddmall Oddmall is part art fair, part craft show, part comic con, part gaming festival, part cosplay extravaganza, part toy show, part antique show, part vintage fashion show, part geeksplosion, part music fest, part magic show and part various undefinable othernesses. If it’s fun, artsy, geeky, crafty or odd, chances are it can be found at Oddmall.

It’s the Emporium of the Weird. John S. Knight Center, 77 East Mill St., Akron. Free. www.oddmall.info.

5/3 Akron Black Stockings Vintage Base Ball Enjoy a home “match” on the Great Meadow, hosted by the Stan Hywet’s resident vintage base ball team, the Akron Black Stockings. Eight clubs compete and two matches take place simultaneously throughout the day. Guests should bring blankets or chairs. Included in a garden and grounds admission. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 1-3 p.m. For details, visit www.stanhywet.org. w w w. akronlife.com

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flash

Don Drumm’s 80th Birthday Don Drumm celebrated his 80th birthday on Saturday, April 11 with a party at the Don Drumm Studios and Gallery. The artist whose creations are a staple of the Akron area, was born in Warren, Ohio in 1935. His Akron art studio opened in 1960 and has been featuring his beautiful, whimsical art ever since.

In honor of his birthday, all art made by Don Drumm, was 20 percent off.

Attendees scooped up their favorite pieces and also took a chance to chat with the man behind it all. Cake, a must for any birthday celebration, was served in the afternoon.

We wish a very happy birthday to Drumm and many more yet to come.

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The “Blue Heron Homecoming” Environmental Festival and Open

Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Works Progress Administration (WPA) employed men to build new sewers in Akron in the 1930s, including these near Crosby and Balch streets in West Akron.

House on Saturday, May 9 will open the doors of Akron’s Water Reclamation facility to the public.

Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., visitors can take a tour of the facility located on Akron-Peninsula Road near Bath Road. The event is free and family-friendly, including hands-on environmental science demonstrations, tours of the facility and of the Bath Road Blue Heron Rookery. Free parking will be available with free shuttles to the plant for all activities.

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FREE Admission FREE Refreshments Children’s Activities Hands-On Exhibits

Plant Tours Blue Heron Rookery Tour

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5/3 Wildflower Hike Search for wildflowers with a naturalist, and discover some past and present plant uses. Sand Run Metro Park / Wadsworth Area 1400 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron. 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 330-8658065.

5/3 Self-Publishing Workshop with JoAnn Shade Drop in for a different art and history workshop taught by local artists or Museum staff. These workshops are funded by The National Endowment for the Arts, KSU Stark, Massillon/North Canton Elks, and Massillon Rotary Club. Registration required. $15-$18. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way, East, Massillon. 2:30-4:30 p.m. www.massillonmuseum. org.

5/3 Nurture Through Nature: De-stress Join a naturalist with tai chi instructor, motivational speaker and energy coach Nancy Gardner to kick off Mental Health Month. Enjoy a hike and learn simple exercises using a hiking staff (bring your own). F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron.

3-5 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/4 Cardio Hike Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Beginners are welcome, but talk to your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine.

Drinking water is recommended. Good for spree credit. Liberty Park, Tinkers Creek Area, 10303 Aurora-Hudson Road, Streetsboro. 9-11 a.m. Free.

330-865-8065.

5/5 Bookbinding with Gary Spangler Be a part of the Handmade Books series that accents The Big Read, which is funded by The National Endowment for the Arts, KSU Stark, Massillon/North Canton Elks and the Massillon Rotary Club. All ages are welcome.

Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon.

5:30-7 p.m. $25-$30. www.massillonmuseum.org.

5/5 Dinner in the Valley: Wildflower Hike and Dinner Enjoy the beauty of spring with a hike on the Stanford Trail, followed by a seasonal meal prepared

by Chef Larkin Rogers. Dinner includes locally made mead. Stanford House, 6093 Stanford Road 6 p.m. hike, 7 p.m. dinner. $15-$45. For reservations, visit www.conservancyforcvnp.org.

5/5 Tuesday Musical presents Academy of St. Martin in the Fields The Chamber Ensemble was created in 1967 to perform the larger chamber work with players who customarily work together. Drawn from the principal players of the orchestra, the Chamber Ensemble tours as a string octet, string sextet and in other configurations. The program will include works by Brahms, Shostakovich and Mendelssohn. The University of Akron’s E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $25-$45. www.uaevents.com.

5/5 BLU Jazz+ presents Jamey Haddad Join us for this very special performance featuring Jamey Haddad on drums and percussion, Roberto Occhipinti on acoustic bass, Sullivan Fortner on piano and Billy Drewes on reeds. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $15. www.blujazzakron.com.

5/5-5/14 Akron Symphony Orchestra’s Concerts for Kids: “Aesop’s Fables” Geared toward kids ages 2-6, these 45-minute interactive performances feature live music accompanied by the music of Ravel by the Akron Symphony Orchestra and interactive storytelling with acting and narration, all led by Assistant Conductor Levi Hammer. 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. $5. For tickets and show locations, visit www. akronsymphony.org.

5/5-5/15 “Two Swords, a Bag of Marbles and a PB&J” 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. With help from the audience, the young prince discovers that he is more than equal to the tasks presented to him. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. For tickets and showtimes, visit www. weathervaneplayhouse.com.

5/6 BLU Jazz+ presents Sullivan Fortner Sullivan Joseph Fortner Jr. is a native New Orleanian who has already made a significant foray into the jazz world that belies his young age. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 7 p.m. Free. www. blujazzakron.com.

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5/6 Neil deGrasse Tyson Astrophysicist, author and science communicator, Neil deGrasse Tyson recently served as Executive Editor, on-camera host and narrator of the popular Emmy-nominated series Cosmos: A SpaceTime Odyssey, the 21st century reboot of Carl Sagan’s landmark television series. The University of Akron’s E. J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. $6-$10. 7:30 p.m. www. ticketmaster.com.

5/6 The Club @ the Civic presents 3rd Impressions with James III Stand up, impressions, storytelling, and more from the mind of a weirdo. Come on a journey with James III as he plays several different celebrities that are just as flawed as the rest of us.

Akron Civic Theatre, 182 South Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $15. www.akroncivic.com.

5/6 Rockabilly Ball North U.S.A. Tour 2015 Don’t miss a night of music featuring Cleveland Rock-n-Roll Legends Johnny Fay and Neil “Crash” Coffin and the Pallbearers, along with Paris, France’s Wild Rockin’ Band, The Megatons. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 7:30-11 p.m. For tickets, visit www. jillysmusicroom.com.

5/6, 5/13, 5/20, and 5/27 Exploring the Small Farm Dream This four-week course is designed to help aspiring farmers decide whether starting an agricultural business is right for them. Registration required. Crown Point Ecology Center, 3220 Ira Road, Bath. 6-9 p.m. $100-$150. www.conservancyforcvnp. org.

5/7 Black and Orange: Film Noir and Massillon, Ohio This exhibit encompasses the decades between the late 1800s and the mid-1900s and offers a “tip of the fedora” to the Lincoln Theatre, which is celebrating its centennial this year. The museum’s

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lower lobby will be filled with the history of movie theatres in Massillon, including a city map with photographic reproductions and markers where the theatres stood or still stand. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon. 7 p.m. A $7 donation is suggested. www.massillonmuseum.org.

5/8 Lil’ Sprouts Who doesn’t love pizza? Children ages 3 and up can help build a pizza garden. Wear old clothes and expect to get dirty. Registration begins 5/1. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. 330-8658065.

5/7 BLU Jazz+ presents One Sound This Akronbased group of up-and-comers performs an infused variety of Jazz and R&B and features Kofi Boakye, Ashton Blake, Cody Mansfield, Jai Latimore, Vinny Mansfield. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $10. www.blujazzakron.com.

5/8 Akron Rubber Ducks vs. Binghamton Mets Cheer on the Akron Rubber Ducks, our minor league baseball affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 South Main St., Akron. 6:35 p.m. $5-$17. www. akronrubberducks.com.

5/7 Josh Hill’s Songwriters In The Round Showcase This performance features Josh Hill, Gretchen Pleuss, Raymond Arthur Flanagan and Christian Conant. Jilly’s Music Room is a live music venue located in the Northside District of downtown Akron, offering a greatt atmosphere, a tapas menu, craft cocktails, more than 100 beers and a gluten-free menu. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. For tickets, visit www.jillysmusicroom.com.

5/8 Friday Firestone Feathers and Friends New and experienced birders join a naturalist for spring bird walks along the Tuscarawas River migratory flyway.

This is an excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas. Binoculars are recommended. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Road, Akron. 7:3010:30 a.m. 330-865-8065.

5/8 Voices in the Valley presents The Stumpy Basin Volunteers The Peninsula Foundation supports the Arts Community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music. Kick back and relax for a night of music in the Historic G.A.R. Hall.

Beer, Wine and adult beverages available. G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 7 p.m. $7. www. peninsulahistory.org.

5/8 CVSR “Grape Escape” Wine-Tasting Train: Sonoma Wine Relax as you travel through CVNP, sampling five wines, hors d’oeuvres and enjoying the view. A commemorative glass is included. Registration required. For ages 21 and older. To register, visit www.cvsr.com. Akron Northside Station, 27 Ridge St, Akron. 7 p.m. $59-$92. www.cvsr.com.

5/8 BLU Jazz+ presents Brandon Coleman This Cincinnati-based guitarist and composer leads an original modern jazz quartet with fierce improvisation and interaction, firmly rooted in the jazz tradition.

Featuring Brandon Coleman, Keigo Hirakawa, Matt Wiles, Jeff Mellott. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $12. www.blujazzakron.com.

5/8-5/10 Visitors Appreciation Days Shop for moms, dads and grads, and receive 15 percent off all merchandise in the Nature Realm gift shop. On Mother’s Day the first 100 ladies visiting the shop will receive a free flower. Support your Metro Parks and find some fantastic fair trade, made-in-the-U.S.A. gifts at a great price! F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 3-5 p.m. 330-865-8065.

5/8 to 5/21 The Nightlight presents “The Clouds of Sils Maria” A veteran actress comes face-to-face with an uncomfortable reflection of herself when she agrees to take part in a revival of the play that launched her career 20 years earlier. The Nightlight Cinema, 30 North High St., Akron. $8.50. For showtimes, visit www.nightlightcinema.com.

5/9 Ken Ludwig’s “A Comedy of Tenors” As opening night draws near, flaring tempers, mistaken identities and bedroom hijinks bring new meaning to the phrase “the show must go on.” A Comedy of Tenors is a laugh-out-loud farce set amidst the glitz and glamour of 1930s Paris. Cleveland Playhouse, Helen Theatre, 1407 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. For tickets and showtimes, visit www.clevelandplayhouse.com.

5/9 Hike, Eat, Ride Take an early morning, 7.5-mile hike to Howe Meadow, have a bite at the Countryside Farmers’ Market, then catch the train back. Peninsula Depot, 1630 Mill Street, Peninsula. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. $3 for train ticket. www.cvsr.com.

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flash 1. “Finding the Gold Within” Director

Cleveland International Film Festival’s Knight and Day in Akron

Karina Epperlein and the men featured in the film chat with attendees.

2. “Traficant: The Congressmen of

The Cleveland International Film Festival held screenings of select films in Akron for the fifth consecutive year this spring. Knight and Day in Akron included three screening locations - the Akron Art Museum, Akron-Summit County Public Library and The Nightlight. The event kicked off on Friday, March 20 with the film “Finding The Gold Within.” We were proud sponsors of this film and were thrilled to have the festival in Akron.

Crimetown”; Eric Murphy, Director 3. Joel Clark “A Man from Reno” Gabrielle Weller producer “A Royal Hangover” 4. “Traficant: The Congressmen of Crimetown”; Eric Murphy, Director and Jeff Alberini, Producer

Other films included “1971,” “The Circle,” “The Creeping Garden,” “Man From Reno,” “A Royal Hangover,” and “Traficant: The Congressman of Crimetown.” It was wonderful to be involved in this event and we would like to thank Mayor Plusquellic for attending the event.

5. Night Life : “A Man from Reno,” Writer Joel Clark 6. Night Life : Akron Public Library, Director Robert Ethington, WKSU Ann VerWiebe, Akron Art Museum Arnold

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Tunstall 7. “Finding the Gold Within” screening at Akron-Summit County Public Library.

8. Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic talking with Knight and Day partners at the “Finding the Gold Within” screenings.

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5/9 Flap Jack & Jill 5K and 15K Pick your distance for this out-and-back course on the Towpath Trail.

Then join your fellow runners for a delicious all-youcan-eat pancake breakfast at Stanford House. Feast on buttery pancakes, sausage links and drinks in the great company of runners, park lovers and pancake enthusiasts. The pancake breakfast is included with your registration. Stanford House, 6093 Stanford Road, Peninsula. 8 a.m. www.conservancyforcvnp. org.

5/9 Bird Search Search for migrating birds, including colorful warblers, in this Audubon-designated Important Bird Area. Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park, 5779 Riverview Road, Peninsula. 8-10 a.m. Free. 330865-8065.

5/9 9th Annual Hope Walk for Stewart’s Caring Place The first 500 registrants will receive a Hope Walk t-shirt at the event, and any team that raises over $500 will receive a $50 gift card to Second Sole or Lucky Shoes. Proceeds provide free cancer wellness services at Stewart’s to individuals and families touched by cancer. Fairlawn Community Center, Bicentennial Park, 3486 South Smith Road, Fairlawn. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Walk starts at 10:15 a.m. $20. For details, visit www. stewartscaringplace.org/hope-walk.

5/9 2015 Spring into Summer Business Expo Over 50 of the best businesses in Akron and Medina will be showcased at this event, including hourly prize drawings and goodie bags for the first 100 attendees.

Come out and do your Mother’s Day shopping with the whole family. Sponsored by the Greater Medina Chamber and The Medina County Women’s Journal.

Summit Mall, 3265 W. Market St., Akron. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free. www.springintosummerbusinessexpo.com.

5/9 The 6th Annual All-American Baseball and Softball Parade Little league teams of Akron will be honored in this parade down Main Street to Lock 3.

Each little league baseball and softball team in the city is invited to participate. After the parade there will be games, inflatable activities, music, lunch and prize giveaways at Lock 3 for everyone to enjoy. 11 a.m. For information, call 330-375-2835.

5/9 Akron Rubber Ducks vs. Binghamton Mets Cheer on the Akron Rubber Ducks, our minor league baseball affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 South Main St., Akron. 6:35 p.m. $5-$17. www. akronrubberducks.com.

5/9 BLU Jazz+ presents Contemporary Jazz Trio Welcome Peter Dominguez, Sullivan Fortner and Paul Samuels, three jazz masters and Oberlin Conservatory of Music faculty members, for a very special, one-night-only trio performance. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 7 and 9:30 p.m. $15. www. blujazzakron.com.

5/9 Small Hall Concert: Hal Walker The Peninsula Foundation supports the Arts Community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music. Kick back and relax for a night of music in the Historic G.A.R. Hall. Beer, wine and adult beverages available. G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 8 p.m. $7. www.peninsulahistory.org.

5/9 Down Home and Josh Hill Band Down Home from Nashville can best be described as a vibrant and energetic Americana band with deep roots in Blues, Country and Southern Rock. Josh Hill Band is a power trio combining blues and rock music with the lyrical content of a savvy singer-songwriter. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

For tickets, visit www.jillysmusicroom.com.

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5/10 4th Annual Mother’s Day 5K Run with or in celebration of Mom during the annual Mother’s Day 5K, a fundraiser to benefit the Metro Parks Foundation. Jogging strollers are welcome. Pet spectators are welcome, but not allowed on the course. Advance registration is $20/adult, ages 15 and older. Day-of registration is $30/adult. 14 and under are free, but they must register. Registration required.

Munroe Falls Metro Park, Lake Area, 521 South River Road, Munroe Falls.

8-9 a.m. Call 330-865-8065 or visit summitmetroparks.org.

5/10 Mother’s Day at Stan Hywet Stan Hywet invites Moms to spend their special day on the Estate with family and friends.

All mothers receive a complimentary admission when family members pay regular admission prices. Includes a selfguided tour of the 65-room Manor House, the Corbin Conservatory, the Gate Lodge, Playgarden and the landscaped historic gardens and grounds. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron.

10 a.m.-6 p.m. For details, visit www. stanhywet.org.

5/10 Mother’s Day Fairy Gardens Celebrate Mother’s Day with a special woman in your life by creating a fairy garden that will last all year. Basic materials will be provided, but we will encourage you to add more at home. Light refreshments will be served. Registration begins 5/2. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 12-2 p.m. $20 for materials. 330-865-8065.

5/10 Akron Rubber Ducks vs. Binghamton Mets Cheer on the Akron Rubber Ducks, our minor league baseball affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 South Main St., Akron. 2:05 p.m. $5-$17. www. akronrubberducks.com.

5/12 Weekday Walkers Enjoy this leisurely stroll with frequent stops to discover nature and history along the way. Good for spree credit. Munroe Falls Metro Park, Tallmadge Meadows Area, 1088 North Ave., Tallmadge. 10-11 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/12 Calligraphy with Gary Spangler This event is part of the Handmade Books series and accents The Big Read, which is funded by The National Endowment for the Arts, KSU Stark, Massillon/ North Canton Elks and Massillon Rotary Club. All ages are welcome. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon. 5:30-7 p.m. $25-$30. www. massillonmuseum.org.

5/12 Dr. Sketchy’s of Akron “Anti-Art School” What happens when art class meets cabaret? Enter Dr Sketchy: themed life drawing with a twist! Music, drinking, drawing, games and dames. Must be 18 and over to paint. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $10. For tickets, visit www. jillysmusicroom.com.

5/13 O&E Canal: Digging the Ditch The Ohio and Erie Canal didn’t appear overnight. Join a naturalist to continue learning about the canals by discovering what went into constructing the canal and its locks.

Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park, 5779 Riverview Road, Peninsula. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/15 Homeschoolers: Water Systems Homeschoolers, ages 7 to 10, join a naturalist to investigate the water cycle and how human activity can affect water quality. Registration begins 5/5. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 1-3 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/15 BLU Jazz+ presents Pat Harris This renowned vocalist makes a swingin’ return to BLU with her premier jazz group. Featuring Pat Harris, Lafayette Carthon, Peter Dominguez, and Ron Godale. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $15. www. blujazzakron.com.

5/14 Story Time: Magic, Invention and Wonder What do you do with an idea? Get inspired to live your dreams by reading some fabulous tales about young inventors and artists who feed their curiosity in peculiar ways! Registration required. Akron Art Museum, 1 South High Street, Akron. 11:15 a.m.12:30 p.m. Free. www.akronartmuseum.org.

5/15 Voices in the Valley presents SyRuP The Peninsula Foundation supports the Arts Community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music. Kick back and relax for a night of music in the Historic G.A.R. Hall. Beer, wine and adult beverages available. G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 7 p.m. $7. www.peninsulahistory.org.

5/14 BLU Jazz+ presents Red Light Roxy and Get Hep Join these jump blues, swing jazz and boogiewoogie masters, Red Light Roxy, accompanied by the renowned Get Hep Swing Dancers for a throwbackthemed night of music and dance. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 7 p.m. $12. www.blujazzakron. com.

5/15 Campfire Tales: Train Wrecks, Shipwrecks and Other Spooky Tales Gather around a roaring fire, where we’ll share eerie stories sure to send a tingle up your spine. Octagon Shelter, Truxell/Kendall Park Road, Peninsula. 7-8 p.m. Free. www.nps.gov.

5/15-5/17 The 59th Annual Barberton Cherry Blossom Festival The Festival will feature Kissel Bros Shows’ carnival rides, games and food, along with vendors, a parade, free entertainment and children’s events. Bring the entire family out to enjoy the cherry pie-eating contest, fishing derby and more.

The Visitors Center stage will offer entertainment including Barberton Idol, lip-syncing and Friday evening music. Lake Anna Park, Barberton. For details, visit www.barbertoncherryblossom.com.

5/14 Rhythms Concert: Roger Hoover This singersongwriter plays in the tradition of folk, Americana & blues. The performance accents The Big Read, which is funded by The National Endowment for the Arts, KSU Stark, Massillon/North Canton Elks, and Massillon Rotary Club. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way, East, Massillon. 8 p.m. $5-$18. www. massillonmuseum.org.

5/14, 5/28 Contra Dances Become part of a living tradition in Cuyahoga Valley. A caller leads while the band, Hu$hmoney, plays lively jigs, reels and tunes.

Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended.

Boston Township School House, 1775 Main St., Peninsula. 7-10:30 p.m. $7. To register, visit www. conservancyforcvnp.org.

5/15 Strangled Darlings and The Angie Haze Project Strangled Darlings are an Americana, experimental folk, punkgrass, folk pop, freak folk band and The Angie Haze Project mixes Indie, gypsy, blues, folk with vaudeville. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. to 12 a.m.

For tickets, visit www.jillysmusicroom.com.

5/16 Bird Watching: Annual Spring Bird Census Birders of all experience levels are invited to participate in this annual spring outing to compile vital population records used in natural resource studies. Bring binoculars and a field guide. NPS Park Headquarters, 15610 Vaughn Road, Brecksville. 7 a.m.

Free. www.nps.gov.

5/16 Birding for Beginners Does birding in spring intimidate you? Join a naturalist for a basic introduction of what to look for when birding this season. Some binoculars and field guides will be provided. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Road, Akron. 9-11 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/16 Fishing for Kids Kids 15 and under learn the basics of fishing. A few rods and reels will be available. Bait is provided. Adults are not permitted to fish. Firestone Metro Park, Little Turtle Pond, 2400 Harrington Road, Akron. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Free. 330865-8065.

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flash

The Lippman School Celebrates 50 Years The Lippman School celebrated its 50th Anniversary with an event that attracted more than 170 community members on March 14. The evening’s theme, “Honoring Our Past, Experiencing Our Present, and Growing Our Future” was illustrated as guests toured the school, viewed slideshows featuring pictures from the past, saw current classroom projects, and learned about plans for the future.

Akron Mayor Donald Plusquellic joined the festivities, and City of Akron Communications Director, Stephanie York read his “Lippman School Day” proclamation just before dinner in the Schultz Campus for Jewish Life Auditorium.

Guests also enjoyed a champagne toast, and viewed a video greeting from Honorary Co-Chairs, GOJO Industries, Inc. CEO Joe Kanfer, and his wife, Pam Kanfer who has been a teacher at The Lippman School for more than 30 years. The video also included a greeting from their daughter, GOJO Vice-Chair and Lippman alumna, Marcella Kanfer Rolnick, and her husband, author, Josh Rolnick,

who were also Honorary Co-Chairs for the event. The school is named after Joe Kanfer’s uncle, the late Jerome “Jerry” Lippman, who founded GOJO. To help raise funds for the school and to give back to the community, sponsors are donating 50 trees to the City of Akron and 50 trees to Israel. In Akron, the trees will be planted in midApril at city parks including Forest Lodge, Hardesty Park, Schneider Park and the Glendale Steps.

Left to right: Head of School Sam Chestnut, Board of Trustees President Trish Crane, and City of Akron Communications Director, Stephanie York.

Pam Kanfer and students, late ‘70s.

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hands-on instruction provided. Must be 50 inches or taller. Registration required. Silver Creek Metro Park, Archery Range, 89 Eastern Road, Wadsworth Twp. 3-4:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/16 Small Hall Concert: Boy=Girl The Peninsula Foundation supports the Arts Community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music. Kick back and relax for a night of music in the Historic G.A.R. Hall. Beer, wine and adult beverages available. G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 8 p.m. $7. www.peninsulahistory.org.

5/16 BLU Jazz+ presents Sam Blakeslee Large Group: “A Celebration of New Works” This trombonist and composer brings a 17-piece, all-star jazz orchestra for an evening of original compositions influenced by hip-hop, classical and hard-swinging traditional jazz. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron.

8 p.m. $18. www.blujazzakron.com.

5/16 School-to-School Bike Ride at Stark Parks Bring your own bike and helmet! This event accents The Big Read, which is funded by The National Endowment for the Arts, KSU Stark, Massillon/ North Canton Elks and Massillon Rotary Club Branch Trail. Schneider Park Trailhead, 1714 Schneider St. Northeast, Canton. 1-4 p.m. Free. www.starkparks. com.

5/16 Archery for Kids Children 9 to 12 join us to learn international-style target archery at our traveling outdoor range. The program is good for beginning and practiced archers. All equipment and

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5/17 Anthony Hamilton This Grammy Award winner has been singing in church since he was 10 years old and his natural talent has earned him a reputation as an “artist’s artist.” Between his own album sales and collaborations, Hamilton has sold more than 19.6 million albums. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 South Main St., Akron. 7 p.m. $50-$80. www.akroncivic.com.

5/17 Cuyahoga Valley House Concerts Fiddler Ed Caner has performed as a sideman for over 50 major acts. He is also a founding member of his own band, Hey Mavis. Ed invites different guest musicians to perform with him each month. Hines Hill Conference Center, 1403 West Hines Hill Road, Peninsula. 7 p.m. $6-$8. www. conservancyforcvnp.org.

5/17 Nurture Through Nature: Yoga Join a naturalist with a certified yoga instructor from Yoga Bliss for a brief hike and yoga during Mental Health Month.

Please wear comfortable clothing. Bring a yoga mat or large towel and drinking water. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Road, Richfield. 3-5 p.m. Free. 330865-8065.

5/18 Kinderealm: Migration Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about bird migration, inside and out. After making a craft, we’ll take a brief walk. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration begins 5/5. Goodyear Heights Metro Park, Pavilion, 2077 Newton St., Akron. 10:3011:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/17 Miller South’s Singers Companye Akron’s chamber choir under the baton of Samuel Gordon, will present The Peacemakers by Karl Jenkins. The multi-movement work features texts by Mother Teresa, Gandhi, St. Francis, the Dalai Lama, Mandela, MLK, Anne Frank and others. Joining Singers Companye will be Akron’s choirs from Miller South School for the Arts under the direction of Nathaniel Duvuvei. St. Sebastian’s Church, 476 Mull Ave., Akron. $8.-$20. 4:30-5:45 p.m. singerscompanye. com.

5/18 Akron History: Glendale Cemetery Leaders from the Summit County Historical Society and Metro Parks are your guides on this trolley tour of Glendale Cemetery. There will be some walking along Mausoleum Row and other flat areas. No restrooms.

Cost: $10 adult, $5 children ages 12 and under, or $25 family of five, payable by April 28. Registration required. Lock 3, 200 South Main St., Akron. 7-8:30 p.m. 330-865-8065.

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5/22 Friday Firestone Feathers and Friends New and experienced birders join a naturalist for spring bird walks along the Tuscarawas River migratory flyway. This is an excellent opportunity to see avian travelers on their way to summer breeding areas.

Binoculars are recommended. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Road, Akron. 7:30-10:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/22 Lil’ Sprouts Children 3 and older will learn what a plant needs to survive and which part of a plant to eat! Afterward, we will give plants a home in our pizza garden. Wear old clothes and expect to get dirty. Registration begins 5/1. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. 330865-8065.

5/22 Homeschoolers: Water Systems Homeschoolers, ages 11 to 14, join a naturalist to investigate the water cycle and how human activity can affect water quality. Registration begins 5/5. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 1-3 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

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ZZZ &URZQ*UDQLWHDQG0DUEOH FRP 6WDWH 5RDG &X\DKRJD )DOOV 0 ) 6DW 5/19 Free Civic Tour Come along on a tour with our media gal, Val. You will learn the history of the theatre and some “behind the scenes” information. The tour is approximately an hour and fifteen minutes. Please note that this tour is more adult oriented and not advisable for children under 13 years of age. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 South Main St., Akron. Noon. Free.

For reservations, call 330-535-3179.

5/20 Nature Drawing for Adults Join a naturalistartist for this entertaining lesson in nature drawing.

Bring a sketchbook, pencil and a sense of humor.

Beginners are welcome. Registration begins 5/12. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1-3 p.m. Free. 330865-8065.

5/20 Kinderealm: Migration Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about bird migration, inside and out. After making a craft, we’ll take a brief walk. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration begins 5/5. Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Area, 40 Axline Ave., Akron. 1-2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/20 Afternoon Stroll Join a naturalist for a leisurely stroll with stops along the way to discover nature and history. Silver Creek Metro Park, Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Road, Norton. 2-3:30 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065.

5/20, 5/21 Akron Rubber Ducks vs. New Britain Rock Cats Cheer on the Akron Rubber Ducks, our minor league baseball affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 South Main St., Akron. 10:35 a.m. $5-$17. www.akronrubberducks.com.

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5/21 Tree Flowers: Mammals, Birds & Insects While not all trees have spring flowers as you might expect, these trees fit the bill. Hike with a naturalist to see our flowering trees and learn how they are pollinated.

O’Neil Woods Metro Park, Trail Lot, 2550 Martin Road, Bath. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/21 Campfire: Northern Cheyenne Indians Join tribal members from Montana’s Northern Cheyenne Indians as they share their history, traditional celebratory music and drumming. This is a rare opportunity for an authentic glimpse into their nation’s powerful artistry. In the case of rain, the program will be moved to the Tuscarawas Shelter. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Road, Akron. 7-8:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/21 The Jon Mosey Trio Come to Jilly’s Music Room and enjoy this band’s all original blues-rock music, including Jon Mosey, Tb Player and Jason Edwards on drums. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. For tickets, visit www. jillysmusicroom.com.

5/21 BLU Jazz+ presents “Organ Ism” Four of Northeast Ohio’s most versatile jazz musicians unite in a very exciting musical setting, featuring Howie Smith, Bob Ferrazza, David Thomas and Bill Ransom.

BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $12. www.blujazzakron.com.

may 2015

5/22 Vicious Cycle: A Tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd Your favorite tributes perform at Lock 3 for the free Friday nights concert series. Lock 3, 200 South Main St., Akron.

Free. 6 p.m. www.lock3live.com.

5/22 Voices in the Valley presents Austin Walkin’ Cane The Peninsula Foundation supports the Arts Community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music. Kick back and relax for a night of music in the Historic G.A.R. Hall.

Beer, wine and adult beverages available. G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 7 p.m. $7. www. peninsulahistory.org.

5/22 Steff Mahan and The Highway 61 Band Sweet and soulful is the sound of Nashville-based singer/ songwriter Steff Mahan. The Highway 61 Band blends harmonica-driven roots rock and boogie blues. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 5:30 and 8 p.m. For tickets, visit www.jillysmusicroom.com.

5/22 BLU Jazz+ presents Peter and Will Anderson Trio Listen as these clarinet and saxophone virtuosos and brothers from New York City swing into Akron for special one-night-only trio performance. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $15. www. blujazzakron.com.

5/22-6/20 PPG’s Teslin Art Show Opening Reception Over 100 artists experiment with different mediums, techniques, and styles to create works of art. This show will showcase all the possibilities of this wonderful product as used in the art world. Nine Muses Art Gallery, 584 W Tuscarawas Ave, Barberton. 5-9 p.m. www.ninemusesart.com.

5/23 Spring Bird Walk New and experienced birdwatchers join a naturalist for a spring bird walk in Liberty Park this season. Binoculars are recommended.

Liberty Park, Twinsburg Ledges Area 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. 8:30-10:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/23 Celebrate 50 Years of the Nature Realm Arboretum Join a naturalist and the park’s grounds manager for a then-and-now tour through the arboretum. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on Seneca Deck during a question-and-answer period after the hike. We will provide lemonade and tea made with herbs from our garden. Meet at the welcome kiosk near the parking lot. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065.

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5/23 Poetry-themed Book Discussion with David Harding This discussion accents The Big Read, which is funded by The National Endowment for the Arts, KSU Stark, Massillon/North Canton Elks and Massillon Rotary Club. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon. Noon -1 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org.

5/23 Carve Your Own Stamp Discover questing!

Stop by our tables for 20 to 30 minutes. After carving your own signature stamp, you will learn how to use rhyming clues, riddles and hand-drawn maps to find hidden treasures (quest boxes) while discovering the natural and cultural histories of our parks. Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park, 5779 Riverview Road, Peninsula.

2-4 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/23 Voices in the Valley presents Rachel Brown and the Beatnik Playboys The Peninsula Foundation supports the Arts Community by presenting Voices in the Valley, a showcase of traditional roots music. Kick back and relax for a night of music in the Historic G.A.R. Hall. Beer, wine and adult beverages available. G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 8 p.m. $7. www.peninsulahistory.org.

5/23 The Juke Hounds The Juke Hounds’ mixture of blues, rock and soul brings the crowd to their feet until it’s time to go home. Today, the Juke Hounds are playing the blues to packed houses across Northeast Ohio, not to mention all the way to Memphis. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. For tickets, visit www.jillysmusicroom.com.

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5/24 Off the Beaten Path: Brandywine Gorgeous Discover the Brandywine Gorge from the inside on this moderate 2-mile hike that will meander in and out of Brandywine Creek. Brandywine Falls, 8176 Brandywine Road, Sagamore Hills. 9-11 a.m. Free. www.nps.gov.

» Ideal Location in the Historic Evans Building (corner of S. Main & Exchange)

5/24 Metro Parks Book Club Join us to discuss “The Endangered Species Road Trip” by Cameron MacDonald. Drinks are provided, but please bring a mug. Sand Run Metro Park, Shady Hollow Pavilion, 1750 Sand Run Pkwy., Akron. 2-3:30 p.m. Free. 330865-8065.

5/24 Good Old-Fashioned Outdoor Fun Calling all families! Join a naturalist for some interactive outdoor fun. Please dress for the weather. Parents, you’ll be expected to play, too. Sand Run Metro Park, Treaty Line Area, 995 Treaty Line Road, Akron. 2-3:30 p.m.

Free. 330-865-8065.

5/25, 5/30, 5/31 Art @ M.D. Garage: “Nature’s Palette” Art @ M.D. Garage is a series of free art exhibitions organized and coordinated by the Crooked River Gang, a volunteer group that promotes art in the Cuyahoga Valley. The M.D. Garage is a 1940s gas station located in the village of Boston. M.D. Garage, 1556 West Boston Mills Road, Peninsula. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Most artwork is available for purchase. www.nps.gov.

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NET ZERO READY HOME COMING IN MAY

5/26 Brown Bag Lunch: Chris Craft, “The Enduring Impact of the Civil War” Bring a brown bag, carry-out or buy lunch at Anderson’s in the City in the Museum lobby to commemorate the Civil War sesquicentennial, sponsored by Bates Printing.

Free coffee and cookies are offered, compliments of the museum. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way East, Massillon. 12:10-12:50 p.m. Free. www. massillonmuseum.org.

5/26, 5/27, 5/28 Akron Rubber Ducks vs. Trenton Thunder Cheer on the Akron Rubber Ducks, our minor league baseball affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 South Main St., Akron. 6:35 p.m. $5-$17. www.akronrubberducks.com.

5/27 Feeding Time Ever wonder what we feed our display animals at the Nature Realm? Ages 5 and older can help us feed the animals and learn more about them. Registration begins 5/16. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 4-5 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

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5/27 Grassland Birds: Bobolinks & More Join a naturalist to walk a new trail in search of bobolinks, meadowlarks and field and grasshopper sparrows.

Other birds will be a bonus. Binoculars are recommended. Liberty Park, Twinsburg Ledges Area, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330865-8065.

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5/27 Meet Me in the Garden: Plant & Insect Photography Join the Master Gardeners of Summit County to learn how to take great photos of flowers and insects while exploring the many creatures that call your garden home. Presented by Danae Wolfe, educator with The Ohio State University Extension.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/28 Nature Crafting for Adults: Bird Bath Join a naturalist to create a beautiful bird bath using old CDs. Registration begins 5/22. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/28 Countryside Farmers’ Market at Highland Square Celebrate opening day at this vibrant, producers-only farmers’ market established and managed by Countryside Conservancy. Highland Square, corner of Conger and West Market streets, Akron. 4-7 p.m. Free. www.cvcountryside.com.

5/28 #artypartyakron This is a juried art show featuring 100 works of art from local artists ranging from young people in grades pre-school to college.

The art will be auctioned off at a fun and exciting event on. The art show will be judged by Don and Lisa Drumm and Mark Soppeland. All proceeds will benefit the CASA/GAL Program of Summit County.

Akrona Galleries, 1765 W. Market St., Akron. 6-9 p.m. www.akrona.com.

5/28 Mr. Lincoln’s Camera Man: An Evening with Mathew Brady This event is presented by Mark Holbrook. Come hear the story from Mathew Brady himself as the world-renowned photographer and chronicler of the American Civil War and the presidency of Abraham Lincoln shares some of his photographs and the stories behind them. The G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 7 p.m. Free. www. peninsulahistory.org.

5/28 An Evening with Gordon Lightfoot Due to an acute illness with Mr. Lightfoot, this concert has been rescheduled from its original March date. Tickets for the March concert will be honored the night of show, with no exchange necessary. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 South Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $47-$67. www. akroncivic.com.

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5/28 Ryan Humbert Drawing influence from musical greats like Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Lucinda Williams and Elvis Costello, Humbert’s songs mix the lyricism of roots music with the inventive arrangements of rock and pop. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. For tickets, visit www.jillysmusicroom.com.

5/28 BLU Jazz+ presents Glenn Zaleski Trio This New York City-based pianist and composer leads an all-star trio in support of his new album, “My Ideal,” on Sunnyside Records, and features Paul Thompson and James Johnson III. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $12. www.blujazzakron.com.

5/29 Spring Fungus Hike Without fungi, fallen trees might never disappear from the understory! Hike with a naturalist to see the many different types of fungi in our parks and learn about their important role in healthy forests. Liberty Park, Tinkers Creek Area, 10303 Aurora-Hudson Road, Streetsboro. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/29 Kinderealm: Migration Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about bird migration, inside and out. After making a craft, we’ll take a brief walk. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration begins 5/5. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/29 Full Moon Fever: A Tribute to Tom Petty Your favorite tributes perform at Lock 3 for the free Friday nights concert series. Lock 3, 200 South Main St., Akron. Free. 6 p.m. www.lock3live.com.

5/29 Akron Rubber Ducks vs. Erie SeaWolves Cheer on the Akron Rubber Ducks, our minor league baseball affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 South Main St., Akron. 6:35 p.m. $5-$17. www.akronrubberducks.com.

Medina Community Recreation Center. There is no day-of-race pick up. Friends and family may pick up your bib for you. Registration required. Medina Square, 23 Public Square, Medina. The Half Marathon begins at 6:45 a.m. and the 5K Race begins at 7:30 a.m. $25-$60. www.runmedina.org.

5/30 Cardio Hike Join a naturalist for healthy outdoor exercise by hiking at a vigorous pace with few, if any, rest stops. Silver Creek Metro Park, Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Road, Norton.

9-10:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/30 Kinderealm: Migration Children ages 3 to 6 and their adult companions learn about bird migration, inside and out. After making a craft, we’ll take a brief walk. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Registration begins 5/5. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/30 Archery Games for Seniors Seniors 55 and older will play different games to build archery skills in a fun and exciting way. Participants must have already taken one of our intro to archery programs.

All equipment and hands-on instruction provided.

Advance registration is required and begins 5/19.

Hampton Hills Metro Park, Archery Range, 1940 West Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. For information, call 330-865-8065.

5/30 The Medina Farmers Market With over 80 farmers, bakers, artisans and more, the Market has been a Medina favorite for 12 years. On Medina Square every Saturday through October 18. 5 Public Square, Medina. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. www. medinafarmersmarket.com.

5/30 Living History Days Friends, business associates and staff members of the Seiberling family are eager to tell you about life in the 1920s on an American Country Estate. Played by our History First Hand troupe, this interactive tour for guests of all ages. All tours on Living History Days are included in a self-guided tour admission. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For details, visit www.stanhywet.org.

5/30 Yoga for Kids Children ages 6 to 10 can join a naturalist and a certified yoga instructor to mimic animal and other natural movements. Please bring a mat and wear comfortable clothing. Registration begins 5/23. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Road, Akron.

1-2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

5/29 The Rally in the Alley presents “Skinny Moo” This weekly summer event benefits a different Medina County charity each week. There is plenty of entertainment, beer, wine, spirits and food to last the entire evening. Come out and enjoy some great BBQ, a beer or cocktail, and a wonderful evening of music.

17 Public Square, Medina. 7 to 11 p.m. Free. www. themainstreetcafe.com.

5/29 BLU Jazz+ presents Bobby Selvaggio’s Transcendental Orchestra This alto saxophonist brings a hybrid ensemble project that features Theron Brown, Cory Todd, Zaire Darden and a string quintet.

BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $12. www.blujazzakron.com.

5/30 Medina Half Marathon, 5K and Expo The Medina Half Marathon is sponsored by the Medina County Road Runners. The race starts and finishes at the Medina Square and the expo is located at the

5/30 Weathervane’s Taste of Theater Gather your family and friends and come to the Playhouse to experience a behind-the-scenes, picnic-style fundraising party. Enjoy a tour of the backstage areas of the Playhouse to find out how performances are created. See a sneak peek into one of the final rehearsals of Oklahoma! All proceeds from the event will benefit Weathervane Playhouse. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. 4 p.m.

For event details, visit www.weathervaneplayhouse. com.

5/30 Akron Rubber Ducks vs. Erie SeaWolves Cheer on the Akron Rubber Ducks, our minor league baseball affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. Canal Park, 300 South Main St., Akron. 6:35 p.m. $5-$17. www. akronrubberducks.com.

5/30 “Wingenstock 7”: Concert in the Big Red Barn Enjoy an evening at this Countryside Initiative farm with a Beatles tribute: Mike, Jim and Bill do “The White Album.” Canal Corners Farm & Market, 7243 Canal Road, Valley View. 7 p.m. $10. For reservations, visit www.lanterntheatreohio.com.

5/30 Bob Corlett and Mo’ Mojo Corlett’s piano playing is a mixture of old school Rhythm & Blues mixed with boogie woogie and the spirit of New Orleans. The female-fronted Mo’ Mojo features three-part harmonies, accordion, fiddle, guitar, bass, rub-board, sax, trumpet, harp, percussion and drums.

Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 5:30 and 8 p.m. For tickets, visit www.jillysmusicroom. com.

6/4-6/28 Rogers & Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!”

Set in a Western Indian territory just after the turn of the century, the high-spirited rivalry between the local farmers and cowboys provides the colorful background against which Curly, a handsome cowboy, and Laurey, a winsome farm girl, play out their love story. Weathervane Playhouse, 1301 Weathervane Lane, Akron. $10-$26. For tickets and showtimes, visit www.weathervaneplayhouse.com.

6/5 BLU Jazz+ presents Tom Tallitch Trio This New York City-based saxophonist performs music off his newly-released album, “All Together Now”, featuring Tom Tallitsch on tenor sax, Brian Charette on B3 organ, and Jordan Young on drums. BLU Jazz+, 47 East Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $12. www. blujazzakron.com.

6/6 Roxxymoron This Akron-based band is an 8-piece rock cover band with a full horn section, tight vocals and harmonies, witty banter, and ridiculous costumes for Halloween. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 North Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. For tickets, visit www. jillysmusicroom.com.

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Stan Hywet Celebrates 100 Years By: Gailmarie K. Fort and Julie Leone

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t the turn of the 20th century, the Industrial Revolution was transforming the very fabric of America, fueled by the genius and entrepreneurial spirit of innovators and visionaries like F.A. Seiberling. His impulsive purchase of a vacant building in downtown Akron forced him to consider ways to put it to good use. Seeing an opportunity to serve a booming market by building bicycle tires, he co-founded The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company with his brother C.W., naming it not for himself, but for the man who actually invented the vulcanization process that made it possible for their company to grow.

It was one of many enterprises F.A. pursued in his lifetime – and without question, it was the most successful one. As Goodyear was on the rise, he and his wife Gertrude needed more space for their family to gather and grow. The answer was Stan Hywet Hall, and it was virtually the house that rubber built.

Until Stan Hywet became their home, F.A. and his wife Gertrude rented a house next door to his mother on East Market Street.

When the prospect of building the Estate was discussed, the senior Mrs. Seiberling prevailed upon her son and daughter-inlaw to not make any such changes until after her passing, so the family could continue its many beloved traditions. It was 1911 before they felt free to begin creating the home they had dreamed of.

In preparation to oversee the professionals selected to handle the work, Gertrude took classes in interior decorating, landscape architecture, architecture and horticulture at Buchtel College — now The University of Akron.

The Seiberling Letters

When the time came for the Seiberling’s to select an architect and a landscape architect, F.A. exchanged letters with a friend in Boston discussing the matter. The letters reveal something of his thinking.

F.A. Seiberling began to purchase land at the end of 1910 and continued to add to the parcel through 1917. The original tract was over 1000 contiguous acres and stretched as far back as the present day Summit Mall. It also included the land where Sand Run Park now sits.

“F.A. Seiberling to Harvey Ruhe — May 5, 1911” I am figuring on building a home on a country place and am seeking to locate the best landscape architect and the best architect of country homes, particularly of the English type, that I can find. It occurred to me that in New England some

Left: In 1912, the Seiberlings and architect Charles Schneider traveled to England to tour the countryside and view Tudor architecture.

They returned flush with ideas and Schneider immediately got to work updating his initial proposed design. The crenelated tower, stacked chimneys and timber accents are just a handful of the Tudor Revival features evident on the exterior of the house.

The Seiberling's third child Willard was an amateur photographer and took photographs of the home during the construction process. This view shows the northwest corner of the rear of the house. ca. 1914

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Gertrude and their eldest daughter Irene traveled to England and France with Schneider to glean ideas for the style of home they would build. Ultimately, three English manors provided the most significant inspiration for the Tudor Revival style created for Stan Hywet: Ockwells Manor, Haddon Hall and Compton Wynyates.

Ground was broken on the foundations in December 1912.

Above: In order to move all of the materials to the construction site as quickly and easily as possible, a railroad spur was constructed off of the main line. All of the construction materials as well as interior furnishings were transported by railway. ca. 1914 Below: Warren Manning was the landscape designer for Stan Hywet Hall. A former employee of Frederick Law Olmstead, Manning was supervising numerous projects while simultaneously traveling across the country to meet with clients and oversee each project.

one or two men might stand out conspicuously as filling these requirements, and if so, you could give me their names…My property has woods or natural forest as one side overlooks the Cuyahoga Valley and has a fine view. I want a home of the English type to fit it, and in fixing up my ground I want to stay to the natural position of things as much as possible and avoid the artificial filigrees that most landscape architects try to work in.

“F.A. Seiberling to Harvey Ruhe — May 11, 1911” I would much prefer to have a local or Cleveland architect…but the difficulty is that the best ones have all done work in Akron and …I did not want any duplication; that I wanted my home original and outside of anything now existing in Akron.

“Harvey Ruhe to F.A. Seiberling — May 27, 1911” Now in regard to the landscape architect I agree with you and I believe that an eastern architect would eliminate the chance of duplication and a man like Manning would give you something original and different from anything existing in Akron.

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arren Manning, the landscape designer hired by the Seiberlings walked the property for the first time in June 1911. He created an initial sketch with proposed siting of the Manor House, service buildings and gardens. In his words to F.A. “I will at the outset say that very few of the thousands or more properties that I have examined and made plans for, offer within a hundred acres, so many and such varied incidents that will give a home estate distinction and interest.”

(W. Manning to F.A. Seiberling — June 23, 1911)

There are no records as to just how many people worked on the construction of Stan Hywet. However other details about the actual construction are known. Seiberling retained an old barn that would have been located on Portage Path, near to the site of the present day Carriage House, that he had retrofitted to act as a work camp site. The barn was equipped with a make-shift dining facility for the workers and a dormitory-style bedroom for sleeping. There are some invoices remaining that show the expenses of this camp site.

It employed workers under Warren Manning, who helped to clear the foundation of the house and complete a lot of the physical/ manual labor — moving rocks, building walls, moving dirt. The invoices also list a lump sum every two weeks for wages, but they in no way indicate how many men were paid. Different skill levels made different amounts, so it is difficult to try to back track and create an estimate that is in any way accurate.

Seiberling also purchased a bus or van that was used to drive down to the street car stop on Market Street to pick up workers who lived locally and commuted each day to the work site.

There was a labor shortage in Akron throughout most of the construction. Correspondence between Seiberling and Manning especially continue to discuss how to find qualified men to complete all of the needed work. Rubber factory jobs paid better and were easy to get, which pulled men away from other unskilled/ skilled professions. The rubber strikes in the spring of 1913 also affected the construction at Stan Hywet. There are indications that other workers struck in solidarity with the rubber workers, creating an almost standstill on all work throughout the city at that time.

On March 8, 1912, contracts were signed with George Post & Sons, a New York City architectural firm. The project would be managed out of their Cleveland office by architect Charles Schneider. The decision to hire Schneider followed an architectural competition among six or eight firms from Cleveland to New York to Boston. Also in 1912, F.A., may 2015

There was a lot of skilled labor needed to complete all of the wood paneling and plaster ceilings in the house. The Hayden Company of New York City, was contracted to complete the designs found in such spaces as the Linenfold Hallway. Two English carvers stayed in Akron and worked throughout the construction process, supervising the creation and installation of all wood carving and paneling.

Below: Gertrude Seiberling and F.A. Seiberling taking a stroll on a ship deck during one of their many overseas trips, ca. 1910.

Above: Stan Hywet's lagoon was formed by the excavation work of the White Sands Stone Company who owned a portion of the property prior to the Seiberlings. Below: The stained glass windows in the Tower are an exact replica of a window seen by the Seiberlings at Ockwells Manor.

Home life

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tan Hywet Hall was one of the finest examples of the American Country Estate movement, which flourished during the Industrial Age. The family moved into the Manor House on Christmas day 1915, and while the Estate was designed to serve nearly every need and desire of their vast, extended family, its use was not by any means, confined to them.

When they moved into the home, F.A. was 56 years old and Gertrude was 49. Their oldest son, Fred was 27 and was serving in the Ohio National Guard, stationed in Fort Bliss, Texas.

Irene was 25 and lived with her parents, as did Franklin who was only 7 years old when the family moved into Stan Hywet. Their other children, Willard (23), Penfield (17) and Virginia (16), were each away at school.

Both F.A. and Gerturde resided at the Estate until each of their deaths (Gertrude in 1946 and F.A. in 1955). Gertrude’s mother, Elsie Penfield, also lived there until her death in 1917.

Supplies for the home were brought right to the front door. The Seiberlings originally owned the property on both sides of the railroad tracks that bisect the property on the north side. A spur was laid from the main rail line up to almost the front door of the Manor House. It was used to transport all building materials as well as furniture deliveries, landscape materials, etc. to the house.

One worker, William Dennis, was hired by Manning to act as a supervisor for the landscape installation. Seiberling was so taken with Dennis, that he offered him the position of Head Gardner when the house opened.

Dennis accepted and he and his family lived in the Gate Lodge until his death in 1923.

F.A. and Gertrude were passionate about living well, but also about sharing their wealth and talents with others. They immersed themselves in the spirit of philanthropy, providing important leadership that extended far beyond the boundaries of their beloved Stan Hywet and permeated throughout Akron, and beyond.

Giving back to the community was one of the greatest rewards of their legacy. In doing

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The Seiberling hired interior designer Hugo Huber to complete the decorating of the Manor House. Huber blended modern conveniences and comfort with period furnishings. The library illustrates his creative design spirit with the integration of painted ceiling, fabric covered walls and carved woodwork. Opposite: The Tea Houses were completed in 1916 as an exterior entertainment space for the family. They overlook the lagoon and were purposefully built into the side of the old quarry wall to give the structure an immediate patina.

so, they set an unparalleled example for their family who made the choice to carry forward their parent’s generosity by gifting Stan Hywet to Akron.

While F.A. was hailed as a titan of the rubber industry, Gertrude established her own reputation as an accomplished artist, musician and patron of the arts. In fact, Stan Hywet’s design and décor were largely influenced by her personal taste. While the family was in residence, she also used her style and influence as a founding member of Tuesday Musical, the Akron Garden Club and other institutions that remain strong, vibrant and iconic organizations even today.

Stan Hywet became a beacon of progress for F.A. and his business associates who often met at the Estate to discuss and negotiate the challenges of the day. It served as an international stage for well-known figures in music, the arts and politics. Throughout the next 40 years, Stan Hywet played host to large family celebrations, including two weddings, and to such luminaries as Presidents William Howard Taft, Warren G. Harding and Calvin Coolidge, as well as Helen Keller, Will Rogers, Thomas A. Edison, the Von Trapp family and many others.

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The extended family also contributed to the community. The Seiberling’s oldest son Fred, his wife Henrietta and their three children lived in the Gate Lodge on the property. In the Gate Lodge on Mother’s Day, 1935, Henrietta Sieberling introduced Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson, co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous. This is considered the first meeting of the organization.

Henrietta had a concern regarding her friend Dr. Bob Smith’s drinking. When Bill Wilson, a successful Wall Street financier who also battled alcoholism made a desperate phone call to Henrietta from the Mayflower Hotel, she thougt the two men might be able to help each other. For the next three months, Henrietta, Wilson, Smith and his wife Ann, studied the Bible and Oxford Group literature and prayed together. They discussed spiritual principles extensively; sought out alcoholics to help; and attended regular Oxford Group meetings at the Williams residence.

From personal to public

F

.A.’s death in 1955 occurred before any decision had been made about a way to provide for Stan Hywet’s future. By this time, he had not been in a position to endow it, may 2015

something that caused him a measure of worry during his lifetime. It prompted Irene to promise her father that she would find a way to save the Estate and keep it alive as a community treasure.

In the last years of F.A.’s life he had moved into the Library and much of the house had been shut up. The grounds had also fallen into neglect without a staff to care for all of the gardens. There were discussions about turning the house into a country club, nursing home, even possibly a children’s home. None of these proposals were satisfactory to the family. They did not want the house cut up or changed as would most likely happen with any of the proposals.

In September 1955, 75 family members and community leaders representing nearly every organization in Akron as well as its leading citizens gathered at Stan Hywet to discuss what might be done with the Estate. During that meeting, it was decided that a committee would be formed and a study underwritten by some of those present, including Akron’s major rubber companies – Goodyear, Firestone, General Tire and Goodrich – to determine what might be required to sustain

the Estate. It was determined that a $1 million endowment would be necessary, a decision that the men would not support, but the women of Akron did.

and more, historic interpretations by the History First Hand acting troupe, a formal program featuring dignitaries to help us honor Seiberling family members and volunteers, and much, much more.

These strong-willed women began a “crusade,” rolling up their sleeves to clean and repair the Manor House, gardens and grounds, and to raise the needed money to open it up for the public to enjoy. They demonstrated the epitome of the American Spirit. The original group of women evolved into the Women’s Auxiliary Board (now the Auxiliary Board), and remains today a proud and integral partner in helping to sustain Stan Hywet’s work, primarily through Ohio Mart, their signature annual fundraising event for the Estate.

Special events that are guest favorites are also returning. Inspiration in Bloom, opened the season with a fresh floral exhibit on display in the Manor House, April 10-12 and a special Seiberling Home Tour Tea featuring tours of Tri-Acres, the home of C.W. Seiberling and many other family homes, followed by a formal tea in the Manor House.

Founders’ Day commemorates the 80th anniversary of the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous at the Gate Lodge, and the Father’s Day Car Show features century cars from 1915 and earlier, live music, and a display of vintage bicycles by the Ohio Wheelmen. The annual Gala, Shakespearean Ball on June 19 is inspired by the Seiberlings’ housewarming party shortly after they took up residence at Stan Hywet.

Present Day

T

oday, Stan Hywet remains a testament to the success of the Industrial Age as well as a symbol of the American Country Estate movement. It is nationally accredited by the American Alliance of Museums – one of only 776 out of 17,500 museums in the country, and the 6th largest historic home in the nation open to the public. The Estate welcomes more than 107,000 visitors every year.

Among the most significant aspects of Stan Hywet are the authentic collections, nearly all of which are original to the home and the family. The furniture, furnishings, paintings, journals, photographs, china, silver – even the hairbrush one might see on the vanity was owned by the Seiberlings.

This year, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens celebrates its 100th Anniversary. The season will be filled with special exhibits, tours and events – while continuing its 2nd Century Restoration & Sustainability Campaign and beginning some of the major restoration work being funded by the campaign. Collectively, these plans for the season honor Stan Hywet’s 100-year history while celebrating its promise for the future under the theme: 2nd Century in Bloom.

Among the many new things to see and do is to tour the Manor House, which has been restaged for the season to look just as it did in 1915. Family photos provided the important references needed to pull some objects from the archives and move others into their original positions.

Also Playgarden returns, with six outdoor interactive spaces inviting family fun for every generation.

A highlight of 2nd Century in Bloom is a new specialty tour, Blueprints to Bricks: Manor House 100th Anniversary Tour. Offered twice

daily, this tour, both inside the Manor House and outside on the grounds focuses on how the Estate was planned and constructed, with a new tour route in the Manor House, where guests will see and venture into areas and unique spaces that are usually not accessible.

In the gardens, Bloom! is on display, June 2 to September 20. This unique installation features the glass artistry of Craig Mitchell Smith. Thirty-two larger-than-life kiln-fired and nature-inspired glass sculptures will be “planted” in the gardens; 12 are inspired by, and designed specifically for the Estate.

The sculptures will be up-lit for special Twilight & Flashlights evening tours on Thursdays and Fridays from August 20 to September 4, inviting guests to enjoy the gardens, grounds and tour the Manor House against a backdrop of music and a selection of food offerings. Picturing the Past features 15 select oversized photographs of the property, dating from 1912-1915. These images are strategically placed throughout the grounds at the photographer’s vantage point, giving guests who visit in 2015 a look at then and now.

Stan Hywet hosts its official 100th anniversary celebration at Community Day on August 16.

Admission will be free for registered guests (by telephone or online) and the day includes vintage base ball, games, music, Playgarden, complimentary tours, antique cars, a Goodyear Band Concert, fun and informative presentations on butterflies, gardening, horticulture

The 49th annual Ohio Mart is October 1-4, with highlights that include a 100th anniversary store and a museum tent celebrating the history of Stan Hywet’s volunteer Auxiliary Board at this annual artisan craft festival. In keeping with the year-long theme, Deck the Hall in November and December focuses on The Seiberling Family Christmases with an exhibit of the family’s traditions in the 1920s, and a scale model of the Manor House — made out of gingerbread. More than 800,000 lights will illuminate the Estate, including Dazzle and Gingerbread Land.

“We are honored to be the stewards of this magnificent estate. The Seiberlings left us with an enduring legacy, which we have the privilege to share, and a rich archive which will be presented throughout the 2015 season.

We are dedicated to ensuring the gardens are always in bloom, the Estate is preserved and restored, the stories are shared and every generation in our community helps set the stage for the second century of this national historic landmark,” notes Linda Conrad, President and Executive Director of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens.

It is obvious that the team at Stan Hywet is proudly guided every day by a mission that is passionately embraced and celebrated by staff, board and volunteers alike: To preserve and share [our] historic Estate and serve as a resource for educational, cultural and recreational enrichment.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is well positioned for at least another century.

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travel + summer fun

by Molly Gase and Jessica Burkhart

Adventure is out there Explore beyond the 330 this summer

Columbus

It’s good to get out and explore, but sometimes we miss the things that are at the tip of our noses.

This summer we encourage you to look just beyond the 330 and discover something new at these destinations. Whether you are looking to enrich your senses through a cultural trip to Youngstown, learn more about Ohio history in Sandusky, or create memories with your family in Columbus, there is a lot to explore this summer.

Travel to the center of the state this summer with the whole family for a weekend to remember. Only a few hours from the Greater Akron Area, visitors to Columbus can check out a variety of activities.

Book lovers beware! The Book Loft of German Village is the kind of place that you can easily lose track of time in. This 32-room book store offers a vast array of books at bargain prices. As you leaf through novels, children’s books, and more, look around at the pre-Civil War era buildings that were once general stores, a saloon and a nickelodeon cinema. Combined to house the many books for sale there, this store has a little of everything. To learn more, visit www.bookloft.com.

After finding your favorite book, or two, or three, go outdoors and explore the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Experience exceptional plant collections, gardens, seasonal art- and nature-based exhibitions and more at this destination. The Conservatory is located on the 88-acre Franklin Park, near downtown Columbus. This location combines the beauty of many exotic plants with a sense of relaxation that allows you to simply enjoy your time outdoors. Learn more about this destination by visiting www.fpconservatory.org.

(Continued on page 46)

Photo Credits

Book lovers beware!

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The Columbus Skyline - Randall L. Schieber The front entrance of the Book Loft Photos courtesy of Experience Columbus

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(Continued from page 44)

Yes, we said castle.

However, it can be quite toasty exploring gardens in the summer, so why not make your next stop involve ice cream? Satisfy your sweet tooth with a stop at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. Founded by Jeni Britton Bauer in 2002, this ice cream is built from the ground up. There are no flavorings, chemical dyes or off-the-shelf ice cream mixes within this frozen treat. Instead your taste buds will be treated to a natural, hand-crafted ice cream. Whether or not it fits into your diet is up to you. Learn more about Jeni’s at www.jenis.com.

Hocking Hills The Hocking Hills area has long been heralded as a gorgeous piece of nature in Ohio.

If you love to hike, zipline, or just enjoy soaking in the environment around you, this could be the place for you. However, once your feet are aching from your full day of adventures, take some time to relax with a stay at the very unique Ravenwood Castle.

Yes, we said castle. Nestled in the woods of Hocking Hills, this lodging definitely has a medieval flair. Guests can pick between lodgings within the castle itself or go for a more rustic feel at the Huntsman’s Hollow. The Huntsman’s Hollow features small cabins, set around a campfire on the grounds of the castle. Learn more about Ravenwood Castle at www.ravenwoodcastle.com.

Photo Credits Ravenwood Castle - Jumping Rocks The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Randall L. Schieber Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams - Photos courtesy of Experience Columbus

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A one-stop shop

Sandusky Are you a history buff? If so, head west this summer and immerse yourself in the past.

Begin your journey in Sandusky. The first thought that pops into the minds of many people when thinking of this lakeside destination is probably scream-inducing thrill rides. However, beyond the rollercoasters, mini golf and chain stores, there is a rich history waiting to be explored.

The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center in nearby Fremont, Ohio, is a onestop shop for those who enjoy presidential history. Housing the presidential library, the home, museum, tomb and a 25-acre estate called Spiegel Grove, visitors enter through one of six sets of original White House gates. The exquisite home underwent a historically accurate restoration in 2012, with everything from the carpets and upholstery to the original wall colors being replicated as authentically as possible. To learn more about this destination, visit www.rbhayes.org.

Continue on your Ohio history tour with a visit to Thomas Edison’s Birthplace in Milan, Ohio. The famous inventor of the phonograph and the incandescent light bulb, Thomas Alva Edison lit up our world — literally. The museum highlights his humble origins and showcases many of his early inventions. Learn more by visiting www.tomedison.org.

After exploring the local museums, go into Sandusky itself for some delicious food. J. Bistro Downtown is a contemporary restaurant located in the Manhattan on Market building. This local eatery is elegant without feeling over the top. Their seasonal menu uses local produce and proteins when possible, including fresh produce from the Chef ’s Garden. To learn more about J. Bistro Downtown, visit www. jbistrodowntown.com.

Toledo As you dive into the past, continue west from Sandusky to Toledo, the glass city. Known for their production of glass, Toledo has a strong history with the practical and beautiful material.

In 2006, the Toledo Museum of Art added the postmodern Glass Pavilion to showcase their glass collection. The 74,000-square-foot building is a work of art itself, with all exterior and nearly all interior walls consisting of large panels of curved glass. The pavilion houses more than 5,000 works of art, ranging from ancient to contemporary.

Learn more about this destination at www. toledomuseum.org/glass-pavilion.

Photo Credits The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center and Home photos courtesy of the Hayes Presidential Center The Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion - Floto+Warner

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Paula R. Chesser

What will I experience working with Paula?

A Flash in the Pan Investment headlines touting the latest and greatest ideas can entice investors to make financial decisions based upon emotions and temporary hype. In many cases, these same investments tend to be short-lived and fail to live up to their promises and expectations.

Our team will help you make investment decisions based upon fundamental principles. We will help craft your overall investment strategy to increase your potential for success while minimizing volatility.

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

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

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Youngstown Experience Youngstown’s cultural side this summer. Begin your trip at The Butler Institute of American Art. Founded in 1919 by Joseph G. Butler, Jr., this is the first museum of American Art. The building itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places making it the first thing to check out when visiting. Learn more and plan your visit at www.butlerart.com.

After touring the Butler Institute, head outdoors to the Mill Creek MetroParks. The picturesque landscaping places you in a tranquil mindset, allowing you to soak up the summer sun. One feature that you will want to check out is the Lanterman’s Mill. One of Mahoning County’s historic landmarks, the mill was built in 1845-46

by German Lanterman and Samuel Kimberly. The mill was restored in 1982-85 and still operates today. Tour Lanterman’s Mill and learn about early production of meal and flour, as well as smell the aroma of freshly ground grains. Learn more about Mill Creek MetroParks and Lanterman’s Mill at www.millcreekmetroparks.com.

Complete your cultural tour of Youngstown with a visit to a unique restaurant in the DeYor Performing Arts Center. With its glass enclosure, dining at Overture offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a feeling of alfresco dining all year round.

The restaurant is open to the public Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and offers a dinner menu prior to performances as well as a late night menu, with a variety of wine choices available to pair with your meal. During your visit, take a look around the building. Originally built in 1931 as the Warner Theatre, the space was renovated and became the home of the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra in 1969. It has since went through several more renovations over the years, including the Eleanor Beecher Flad Pavilion. Opened in 2006, this pavilion is actually named after the great-granddaughter of German Lanterman, of Lanterman’s Mill. Learn more by visiting www.youngstownsymphony.com.

A cosmopolitan atmosphere with a feeling of alfresco dining

Pittsburgh Once you have enriched your senses with the cultural scene in Youngstown, take a side trip over to Pittsburgh. Tour two modern art museums that will stimulate those already culturally astute senses even more.

When thinking about modern art, it is hard not to picture soup cans and the brightly colored faces of pop culture icons. The Andy Warhol Museum includes 900 paintings, approximately 100 sculptures, more than 1,000 published unique prints and 4,000 photographs. Walking through the halls of this museum, you will get a feel for the range of Warhol’s works. To learn more, visit www. warholmuseum.org.

Continue your art tour at the Mattress Factory. Founded in 1977, this museum is a contemporary art museum and experimental lab that features site-specific art installations. If you are looking for a non-traditional museum experience, the Mattress Factory could be the stop for you. Learn more at www.mattress.org.

Photo Credits The Butler Institute of American Art Photos courtesy of the Butler Institute of American Art The DeYor Performing Arts Center Photos courtesy of DeYor Performing Arts Center Mill Creek MetroParks - Photos courtesy of the Mill Creek MetroParks The Warhol Store in the Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh - Abby Warhola

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Pounding the pavement By: Emily Mangano Running and walking in the great outdoors is one of the summertime activities that many people either resume or pick up as soon as the sun thaws our frozen section of the state. This summer, strap on your running shoes and check out a few of the many races available in the 330. Some support local causes, other challenge you physically, while others are just a lot of fun.

Dates, times and locations are subject to change, so double check with event organizers before hitting the start line this summer.

May May 1- Medina City Schools Foundation Run.4.Fun, 5k Run/Walk, 5k Family of Four Entry, 1-Mile Run/Walk, Children’s Half Mile Run/Walk (Medina, Ohio) Help the Medina City Schools Foundation raise money for classroom projects, student programs, scholarships and staff awards. Registration is available at runsignup.org.

May 2- 3rd Annual Immaculate Heart of Mary School Mustang 5k Walk/Run, 1-Mile Fun Run/ Walk Benefiting the Immaculate Heart of Mary School’s technology upgrade plan, this Mustang 5k Walk/ Run and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk is on a mostly flat

surface on the school grounds. This race is child and family wellness oriented and will feature more than 800 runners.

May 3- 5th Annual Kelly’s Grief Center 5k Run/ Walk (Stow, OH) This race takes a scenic route through Pambi Farms and surrounding areas, beginning and ending at Roses Run. Registration includes a short-sleeve technical running shirt, pre-race fruit, coffee and water, water station, goody bags and post-race celebration. All proceeds will benefit Kelly’s Grief Center in Kent, OH. May 9- Mother of All Races 5k and 10k (Canal Fulton, OH) Support the Rotary of Canal Fulton this Mother’s Day weekend. Starting at Northwest High School, the trail goes through the historic and picturesque downtowns of Canal Fulton and Clinton, Ohio.

Run as an individual or team up with your mother or son or daughter to compete for chances to win great door prizes, including a one-week trip to St. Croix!

May 10- Mother’s Day 5k (Munroe Falls, OH) Run in support of the Metro Parks Foundation this Mother’s Day. Children 14 and under run for free. Jogging strollers are welcome on the course and T-shirts will be available to purchase on race day.

May 16- ADM Recovery Challenge 5k (Akron, OH) This 5k challenge includes running/walking, climbing, crawling, balancing and maneuvering through trees, fields and grounds. Age groups of 5 to 11 years and 12 and older are offered.

May 23- The Color Vibe 5k (Akron, OH) The most colorful race in Ohio! You will get blasted with color while you run this 5k race held at Lock 3 Park. Register at thecolorvibe.com/ akron.

May 25- Tallmadge Memorial 5k (Tallmadge, OH) Women start first at this year’s Tallmadge Memorial 5k. Women begin at 7:30 a.m. and men will follow starting at 8:45 a.m. After the race, enjoy a pancake breakfast and the Memorial Day Parade. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Relay For Life.

June June 5- Running4Hope 2015 Night Glow 5k Run/ Walk (North Canton, OH) Running4Hope benefits the Domestic Violence Project, Inc. Help create better services to victims of domestic violence in Stark County by participating in this event.

June 13- Fit Family 5k (North Canton, OH) Located on the campus of Walsh University, the Fit Family 5k promotes health and wellness to all ages of the community. Proceeds create scholarships for the Walsh University Doctoral Physical Therapy Students.

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June 13- Together We’ll Trample ALS 5k, 10k, 15k and Solo 5k (Wooster, OH) You and two friends will be tethered together as you compete in a 5k, 10k or 15k to trample ALS. You can also complete as an individual in a 5k race.

Summer Fun Local Festivals

June 21- Triathlon (Duathlon) at Munroe Falls Metroparks (Munroe Falls, OH) Celebrate Father’s Day by competing in a Triathlon or Duathlon. The triathlon consists of a 400 yard swim, 10.5-mile bike ride and a 3M run. The Duathlon includes a 1.5-mile run, 10.5-mile bike ride and a 3M run.

Music in the Valley – Hale Farm and Village

June 27- Akron Marathon Rubber City Race Series (Akron, OH) The Rubber City Race Series takes place on three different dates. Kickoff to the Rubber City Race Series begins on June 27th with an 8k or 1m race. Following the race will be a Thirsty Dog Beer Festival. Train hard and challenge yourself during the next two races on August 15th and September 26th.

July July 4- Orrville Rotary Firecracker 5k, 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk (Orrville, OH) Celebrate our country’s independence by running in the 16th Annual Orrville Rotary Firecracker 5k. This race begins and ends at Orrville Christian Church and trophies will be given to top male and female runners.

July 5- Dirty Trail Race Series: Muddy Paws (Peninsula, OH) Choose between a 5 or 10-mile run or bring your furry friend for a 2-mile run. A portion of the proceeds benefits the HSGA.

August August 2- Komen Northeast Ohio Akron Race For the Cure 5k (Akron, OH) The Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure Series is the largest and most successful event created for breast cancer awareness in the world. Choose between a 5k and a Family Fun Walk.

August 8- Warrior Dash Ohio II (North Lawrence, OH) Warrior Dash is the world’s largest obstacle race series. Participants earn their medals by dashing through a 3.21-mile long obstacle course with 14 different obstacles. Proceeds benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

August 15- Circle City Mile (Tallmadge, OH) The first loop of the run will be on the inside of the Tallmadge Circle and the second loop will be around the outside.

Enjoy an informal folk music festival at Hale Farm & Village this summer with the 40th Music in the Valley series.

The casual concerts are presented in partnership with FolkNet and feature different folk musicians. Guests are able to wander the museum and stop by the concert throughout their visit. This summer, guests can also taste various Ohio-based wines. For more information, visit www.wrhs.org.

Brew at the Zoo: ‘80s night and Christmas in July A visit to the Akron Zoo this summer will not only allow you to view the many amazing animals, but also sample a variety of beers. There are four Brew at the Zoo events throughout the year, each with their own distinct theme.

During the summer months, check out their ‘80s Night themed event in June and Christmas in July. Brew passes are available and provide access to all four events. For prices and more information, visit www.akronzoo.org.

Ohio Shakespeare Festival at Stan Hywet: Much Ado About Nothing & Henry V This summer, enjoy an evening of Shakespeare in the Lagoon area of Stan Hywet. Presented in partnership with the Ohio Shakespeare Festival, audiences can enjoy two works by the famous bard. From July 2 to July 19, catch performances of the witty romance, Much Ado About Nothing. This romantic comedy draws viewers into a battle of the sexes, played out by main characters Beatrice and Benedick. In contrast, dive into history with Shakespeare’s Henry V. Running from July 30 to August 16, this is a play full of action. Watch as England battles France during the Hundred Years’ War and a young king, Henry V, navigates through treachery, plots and romance. For more information on tickets, visit www. ohioshakespeare.com or call 330-673-8761.

Blossom Summer Concert Series: Cleveland Orchestra Since 1968, Blossom Music Center has been the summer home of the Cleveland Orchestra. Visitors to Blossom have been able to sit back, relax and enjoy the sounds of classical music under the stars. Situated on 200 acres of green space, the concert venue is surrounded by the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Beginning in July with the “America the Beautiful” concert, the Cleveland Orchestra performs at Blossom until early September. The last concert of the summer is “The Music of John Williams.” Music lovers ages 17 and under can attend for free. For more information, visit www. clevelandorchestra.com.

August 16- Machine Head Triathlon (Lake Milton State Park) Choose from two different triathlons, the Sprint and the Olympic. The Sprint includes a 750m swim, 16-mile bike ride and 3.1-mile run. The Olympic includes a 1500m swim, 24-mile bike ride and a 6.2-mile run.

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Sweet Corn Festival Come out and partake in the 34th anniversary of Lodi’s Sweet Corn Festival on July 23, 24 and 25. During the festival, check out various vendors and merchants, as well as enjoying some sweet corn. Visitors can also either participate or cheer from the sidelines during the annual Lodi Sweet Corn Race. For more information, visit www. lodiohiochamber.com/sweet-corn-festival.

2015 Ohio Chataugua Take a journey into the past at the 2015 Ohio Chautauqua. This event brings historic figures to life through the performances of scholars, who tell the story of their specific character while in full costume.

This year the characters will include Titanic survivor Edith Russell, 1849er J. Goldsborough Bruff, Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr., Indian captive Olive Ann Oatman and philosopher Henry David Thoreau. Ohio Chataugua will travel to four locations this summer, stopping in Akron June 23 to June 27.

For more information, visit www.ohiohumanities.org.

Rib White & Blue Festival This summer tradition brings together mouth-watering ribs and rocking musical entertainment for a memorable 4th of July celebration. Sponsored by the City of Akron, Rib White & Blue is located in Lock 3 Park. If you are a fan of ribs, this is the event for you. Rib vendors battle one another for cash prizes and bragging rights as having the best ribs around. Several tribute bands will be on the stage throughout the event including, Bruce in the USA, Tribute to Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band; Hotel California, A Tribute to The Eagles; and 1964 The Tribute.

The Akron Symphony Orchestra will also perform for a July 4th pops concert and fireworks finale. For more information, visit www.akronribfeatival.org.

Square Fest This family-friendly event features local entertainment on three stages. Along with the live entertainment, Square Fest also showcases over 70 exhibitors that include artists, community organizations and neighborhood businesses. The free event also offers a pizza competition, stilt walkers, an interactive children’s area with inflatables and a video game truck. This Akron festival will take place on September 12. For more information, visit www.akronsquarefest.org.

Twins Day Festival – Twinsburg Don’t worry, you aren’t seeing double. It’s the 40th Twins Day Festival in Twinsburg. This festival is open to all multiples, whether they are identical, fraternal, twins, triplets or quadruplets. Multiples and their families gather for the themed event. In honor of the 40th anniversary, this year’s theme is “Twins Days: Times 2 Remember.”

Attending twins can dress to match past Twins Days themes or wear a costume from a past festival. The Twins Day Festival is August 7 through August 9. For more information, visit www.twinsday.org.

Music & Rib Festival Rock out at the Music & Ribfest in early June this summer. Held at the Wayne County fairgrounds, the fest will feature Michael Stanley & The Resonators on June 5, and Sawyer Brown on June 6. For more information, visit www.waynecountyfairohio.com.

may 2015

Canton Blues Festival If your music genre of choice is the Blues, you are in luck this summer. Check out the Canton Blues Festival from June 12 to June 13. This free outdoor festival is located on Market Square in downtown Canton with live music running from noon to 10:30 p.m. each day.

Performers include Jimmy Thackery, Tommy Castro and The Painkillers, Albert Castiglia and Biscuit Miller. For more information, visit www.visitcantonstark.com/canton-bluesfestival.

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Riverfront Irish Festival Stroll around the Falls River Square in Cuyahoga Falls this summer during the 22nd Riverfront Irish Festival. This family-friendly event runs from June 12 to June 14 and features three stages of music, Irish food, and traditional Irish dance. While checking out the festival, you can also shop in the Irish Market place. The market showcases traditional Irish and American items. On Sunday, visitors can also attend an Irish Mass. Admission to the festival is free. For more information, visit www.riverfrontirishfest. com.

Dalton Community Historical Society Strawberry Festival Nothing screams summer more than a bowl of fresh strawberries and ice cream. While enjoying the strawberries at the Dalton Community Historical Society Strawberry Festival, listen to live music and mingle with friends. The festival is on June 13 at Dalton Memorial Park.

For more information, visit www.wccvb.com.

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Paint Twp/Mt. Eaton firefighter’s fest & fireworks Grab some delicious barbeque chicken, listen to music and play family-friendly games at the Paint Twp/Mt. Eaton Firemen’s Festival &Fireworks. After chowing down on the food, watch the fireworks display, beginning at 10:15 p.m. on June 27. For more information, visit www.wccvb.com.

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Brunswick summer celebration Come out to Brunswick for some family fun this summer.

Running from June 30 to July 5, the Brunswick Summer Celebration features amusement rides, food and entertainment. This community event is produced by Brunswick Productions Inc., a community organization that is not affiliated with any city or municipality. For more information, visit www.summer-celebration.com.

Summit County Italian American Fest Head over to Lock 3 Park in downtown Akron July 9 through July 11 for the Annual Italian American Festival.

Since 1947, members of the community have come together for entertainment, food and wine tastings during this festival. Lounge in the park, socialize with others in the community and relax during the festival. For more information, visit www.it-am.org.

Sleepwalker festival The Sleepwalker Festival in downtown Rittman, celebrates late nights at work. Originated from a time when local merchants would stay open late and wear their pajamas to work, the festival celebrates community, tradition and family. Enjoy food, games, music and a car show during the event. The festival runs from July 23 to July 25. For more information, visit www.rittmanchamber.com.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEAUTYGUIDE

EMBRACING BEAUTY It has been a long, harsh winter here in the 330. Month after month, we were greeted with grey skies and muted landscapes. Even though it felt like it would never happen, the leaves finally returned to the barren trees and blankets of green grass rolled along the hillsides. With the warmth of summer embracing you, it is time to shake off any feelings of winter hibernation and emerge into the Greater Akron Area.

Whether you are hitting the beach, attending a family wedding, or just spending quality time on the town with friends, you deserve to look your best this summer. While this is something that only you can define, looking your best comes from matching what you feel inside to your exterior. Maybe it’s a new hair style, or correcting your smile, or even an aesthetic procedure. Regardless, it is good to feel beautiful about yourself. Enjoy your summer!

The Importance of Selecting a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

T

he most important decision you can make before any aesthetic procedure is the careful selection of your plastic surgeon.

When it comes to medicine, not all treatments and doctors are the same. That is especially true in the field of plastic and aesthetic surgery.

Make sure your physician is board certified.

This designation means your surgeon has successfully passed a very critical review process.

Board certification is a voluntary process that is very different from a medical license. Board certification serves as the benchmark measure indicating that a physician has achieved the highest standards of customer care within their medical field. It reflects the important physician core values of compassion, patientcenteredness and a desire for continuing education. It is an earned designation awarded to physicians who demonstrate the very best abilities in their specific medical specialty.

Patients should look for this designation as evidence of a physician’s knowledge, experience and skills for providing quality health care.

Board certification is also equally important when selecting someone to perform non-invasive procedures like CoolSculpting and Botox.

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Michael G. Parker, M.D.

Douglas S. Wagner, M.D.

Although these are not actual surgeries, they are precise medical procedures that can produce dramatically varied results depending on how they are administered. Every medical procedure is accompanied by some risks and those risks are best managed by a boardcertified physician. Today, we often see these procedures being offered at spas, salons or other non-medical facilities. As long as these facilities have the necessary permits, it is legal for these procedures to be performed but we believe any cosmetic procedure that is going to alter your appearance will always be best managed by a board-certified physician.

may 2015

John C. Pedersen, M.D.

You should only select an experienced boardcertified plastic surgeon who can demonstrate significant experience performing the procedure you are interested in.

All of the physicians at Akron Plastic Surgeons are board certified with 80 years of combined experience. When you contact Akron Plastic Surgeons for a consultation, you can be confident you’re choosing the very best doctor and care team in the Akron region.

Please call 330-253-9161 or visit AkronPlasticSurgeons.com to arrange a consultation.

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55

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

BEAUTYGUIDE

MAYBE THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH...

ISN'T A FOUNTAIN AT ALL It all starts with a smile, a laugh or a kiss.

Even a subtle change in your smile helps to project an image of self-confidence and high personal esteem. It shows when you feel good about yourself!

As a leader in the field of cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Iati has been described as artistic and detailed.

His style is relaxed and comforting. These are just a few of the attributes given to the area's finest cosmetic dentist.

While Dr. Iati’s practice focuses on cosmetic, reconstructive and TMJ therapy, he also provides his patients with all facets of general dentistry. He offers digital x-rays, laser cavity detection and computerized anesthetic delivery for pain-free injections. For relaxation, Dr. Iati

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offers in-room flat screens, satellite radio, noise-canceling headphones, paraffin hand dip and a warm towel finish, sending you away refreshed after your visit.

Veneers, crowns, computer-aided smile design and photography help achieve superior, lasting results. As part of a total facial rejuvenation program, Dr. Iati is an Invisalign preferred provider and performs Botox and Juvedurm to complement any smile enhancement procedure.

View before and after results at stowdental.com. See how modern technology and highly crafted skills can be utilized to return a smile to its optimum level of health and beauty. Stop by and FEEL the excitement as Dr. Iati’s wonderfully trained team guides you through your dental experience.

Dr. Mark A. Iati, DDS, FAGD Stow Dental Group 3506 Darrow Road Stow, OH 44224 330-688-6456 stowdental.com

Cindy Richards

Lisa Goodman

Barbers West 2950 West Market St. Ste. M., Fairlawn, OH 44333 234-678-5399 www.barberswest.com

Razors Edge Hair Studio 494 Graham Rd. Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 330-929-4242 www.razorsedgehair.com

Barbers West owner Cindy Richards is joined by three experienced barbers, all specializing in expert cuts for men and boys of all ages, from current to traditional styles. Walk-ins welcome. Open Monday through Saturday.

Lisa Goodman and her team of talented stylists at Razors Edge specialize in award- winning color services and razor cutting, creating haircuts with extra softness and texture. They’ve been a consistent winner on Fox 8's Hot List in Akron & Canton.

Christine Spring

Mandy Mae Heilman

VCS Salon & Spa 410 S. Court St. Medina, OH 44256 330-723-3998 www.vcssalon.com

VCS Salon & Spa 410 S. Court St. Medina, OH 44256 330-723-3998 www.vcssalon.com

Christine's specialty is in hair color, mentoring others in the color business, and teaching color theory.

She also specializes in an advanced technique, "Deva Curl," a system of cutting and styling specifically designed for curly or wavy hair.

With 19 years of experience, one of Mandy's talents are hair extensions, educating guests on ways to achieve fullness, and filling in thin hair. She takes pride in offering the most current looks and is committed to first listening, then designing.

may 2015

good eats

restaurants

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

Please call ahead to verify location, hours and events.

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

Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices. 250 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330376-0600 $ B, L, D, T Aladdin’s Eatery Outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-535-0110; First and Main streets (Hudson) 330-656-0560; 3895 Medina Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-665-3102 $$$ L, D, A, T Al’s Corner Restaurant Old-world comfort food served cafeteria style. Cabbage rolls and sausage made locally are a favorite. 545 W. Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330-753-7216 $$ L, T Angello’s Historic building with an Italian neighborhood feel. 4905 Tuscarawas St. W. (Canton) 330-477-1486 $$ L, D, A, T Arcadia Grille Authentic Italian cuisine with pasta and chops. Breakfast served Sat. and Sun. A local favorite for more than 85 years. 321 Court Ave. (Canton: Downtown) 330-454-6055 $$ B, L, D, A Arnie’s West Branch Steak House Casual dining, specializing in steak, ribs and seafood. Closed Sun. 5343 State Rte. 14 (Ravenna) 330-297-1717 $$$ D, A, T B Loco Mexican Grill Tacos, burritos, burrito bowls, salads, quesadillas, monster nachos and monster fries. Plus Mexican cannoli and elephant ears. 7216 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-830-5020 $ L, D, T Babushka’s Kitchen Old World food with a Polish influence. Handmade fresh kielbasa, stuffed cabbage, pierogi, paprikash and more. 6531 Brecksville Rd. (Independence) 216-447-9275 $$ L, D, T Bar145 This Gastropub features bar fare and an extensive menu of burgers made with Niman Ranch beef. 100 E. Erie St. (Kent) 330-968-6201 $$ L, D, A, T Barley House Hot and cold deli sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, soups and more. 222 S. Main St. (Akron) 330-374-0925 $$ L, D, A, T Basil Asian Bistro Menu features Thai, Chinese and Korean dishes, as well as sushi and Vietnamese specialties. Closed Mon. 585 Market Ave. N. (Canton) 330-452-3888; 4195 Massillon Rd.

(Green) 330-915-6893 $$$ L, D, A, T BayLobsters Fish Market & Café Open since May 2012, the café serves seafood meals fresh and hot, including Captain John’s award-winning fish and chips, crab cakes, lobster rolls, grilled salmon, fish tacos and po’ boys. 9224 Darrow Rd. (Twinsburg) 330-486-0713 $$$ L, D, T Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Fairlawn Hilton. 3180 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-5577 $$$$ L, D, A, T Beau’s on the River Stunning views of the falls with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary décor. Fusion/eclectic cuisine, lunch buffet and Sunday brunch. Sheraton Suites Akron/ Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330920-7530 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Belgrade Gardens Famous for fried chicken and home-style cooking. 401 E. State St. (Barberton) 330-745-0113; 3476 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-3396 $$$ L, D, A, T Bellacino’s Known for grinders, pizza, pasta and fresh salads. Full bar, patio and banquet room with dance floor. 3657 Fishcreek Rd. (Stow) 330-6783000 $$ L, D, A, T Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood.

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

4284 Beverly Hills Dr. (Brunswick) 330-225-0927 $$$ L, D, A, T Big Eye Japanese Cuisine and Sushi Bar Menu offers a wide variety of sushi as well as salads, soups, appetizers, cooked entrees and vegan options to suit everyone at your table. Closed Sun. 2965 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-836-4433 $$$ L, D, A, T The Bistro at Gervasi Vineyard Situated on a 55-acre estate in a renovated historic barn that overlooks a beautiful lake. Serving rustic Italian fare using only fresh and seasonal ingredients. Closed Mon. Open for lunch Sat. and Sun. 1700 55th St. NE (Canton) 330-497-1000 $$$ L, D, A Bistro on Main House-made desserts, hand-cut steaks and fresh pasta. Closed Sun. 1313 W. Main St. (Kent) 330-673-9900 $$$ L, D, A, T Block 7 Fresh-ground burgers, unique sandwiches, onion rings and more. Closed Sun. 524 W.

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

Tuscarawas St. (Barberton) 330-745-7677 $$ L, D, A, T Blue Canyon Creative American cuisine in six nature-inspired dining environments. Sunday brunch buffet. 8960 Wilcox Dr. (Twinsburg) 330486-2583 $$$$ L, D, A, T Blue Door Café and Bakery Sandwiches, quiche, soup, crepes and omelets. Open Wed.-Sun., 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner served Thurs.-Sat. from 6-9 p.m. 1970 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-9269774 $$ B, L, T Bombay Sitar Fine Indian cuisine. Food is natural and prepared fresh daily. 5111 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-305-0671 $$ L, D, T Bricco Open since Sept. 2003, this restaurant is known for its eclectic seasonal menu, wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. Open Sun. for brunch and dinner. 1 W. Exchange St. (Akron) 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Bricco in Kent Menu is modeled after the original Bricco in downtown Akron. À la carte brunch on Sun. 210 S. Depeyster St. (Kent) 330677-1335 $$$ L, D, A, T The Brickoven Brewpub Hand-crafted traditional, deep-dish, specialty and dessert pizzas, calzones, appetizers, salads and nanobrewed beer.

604 Canton Road (Ellet) 330-475-7005 $$ D, A, T Brubaker’s Specialty sandwiches, wraps, pizzas, appetizers and a full bar. Bottomless soup and salad special. 4005 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-666-8021; 5823 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330650-9401; 3939 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-8968803; 1922 Buchholzer Blvd. (Chapel Hill) 330630-2237; 357 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-7160; 4141 Bridgewater Pkwy. (Stow) 330-475-1525 $$$ L, D, A, T The Burntwood Tavern Owned by the same couple that runs the other Burntwood locations in Rocky River, Brecksville, Chagrin Falls and Solon, this restaurant’s menu features steaks, sliders, hand-cut fries, smoked, planked, and wood-grilled food. 2291 Riverfront Pkwy.

(Cuyahoga Falls) www.burntwoodtavern.com $$$ L, D, A, T The Cabin Upscale Italian within the Mario’s International Spa and Inn complex. 35 E. Garfield Rd. (Aurora) 330-562-9171 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T

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Café Bricco This menu is a smaller version of the one at the original Bricco location downtown.

Doubletree Hotel, 3150 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-835-2203 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Cafe Tandoor Casual atmosphere, Indian cuisine.

Closed Mon. 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.

Coffee house nights with live entertainment. 506 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330-494-1123 $ B, L, D, T Cana Valley Winery Check out this winery’s 13 varieties. Bring in your own food. Open Wed.-Sat. 5665 Waterloo Rd. (Atwater) 330-596-3017 $ D, A Capri Pizza Pizza, pasta, wings and barbeque ribs.

810 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-762-9131 $ L, D, T Casa Del Ranchero Authentic Mexican. Try a 44-ounce jumbo lime margarita, Arroz Con Pollo and flan for dessert. Kids’ menu and vegetarian menu. 562 W. Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330753-8494 $$ L, D, A, T Casa Del Rio Mexican dining. 839 High St. (Wadsworth) 330-335-4001 $$ L, D, A, T Ceedo’s Eatery Traditional Middle Eastern food — kosher and halal — including shwarma and falafel, stuffed whole lamb, hummus, tabbouleh and kibbeh. Closed Mon. 4147 Bridgewater Pkwy.

(Stow) 330-940-2424 $$ B, L, D, T Cellar 59 Wine Bar & Wine Shop The menu in this renovated 19th century farmhouse features small plates and desserts, as well as bottles of wine and craft beer. Closed Sun. and Mon. 3984 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-688-2684 $$$ L, D, A, T Chicken Manor Restaurant Menu includes pasta, seafood, steaks and chops. Kids’ and seniors’ menu. Closed Mon. 8043 Cleveland Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-499-2159 $$ L, D, T China City Traditional Chinese cuisine in an elegant setting. 156 Cherry St. (Kent) 330-6736566 $$ L, D, A, T China Gourmet Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin and Cantonese dishes. Known for General Tso’s Chicken. 1971 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-8678838 $$$ L, D, A, T Chowder House Café Salads, soups, sandwiches and clam chowder. Bring your own 57

untapped

by Aaron Fowler

Breckenridge Brewery Breck IPA Six-packs $9.99

Colorado’s Breckenridge Brewery is no stranger to change. The brewery continues to grow and is in the process of moving into a brand spankin’ new location.

What better way to celebrate success than with a fresh new yeararound addition to their already impressive line-up in the form of Breck IPA. Founded by Richard Squire in early 1990, Breckenridge Brewery was at that time only the third craft brewery in the state of Colorado. Two years later, he would open a production facility in Denver to package both 6-packs and 12-packs, which oddly enough was the first craft brewery to do so in the state.

After expanding over the last two decades, with a total of five brewpubs and ale houses throughout Colorado, Breckenridge has now set their sights on an epic new brewery housed on 12 acres of land in Littleton.

When completed, the 76,000-squarefoot facility will have the capacity to brew up to 300,000 barrels of beer per year. The land will also eventually feature a 300-seat Farmhouse Restaurant, an organic garden and a 2-acre hop garden, which will be used to create small batch beers.

Breckenridge plans to unveil the new brewery to the public this June.

Hopped with fan favorite Mosaic and “Mr. Reliable” Cascade, Breck IPA is a citrus forward India Pale Ale that 58

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balances out the aroma and taste with equal part malt backbone. The result is a perfectly drinkable 6.3 percent brew that may become your next go-to pint.

Look for the debut of Breck IPA this month in 6-packs for only $9.99 at Giant Eagle, Acme and Fishers Foods locations, as well as your finer craft beer stops such as West Point Market, Mustard Seed, Lizardville and 101 Bottles. Breck IPA will also be available on draft throughout the state at your neighborhood craft-friendly watering holes. / Writer Aaron Fowler is a sales representative at Cavalier Distributing.

Comments?

Email them to Molly Gase at mgase@bakermediagroup.com.

may 2015

wine and beer ($5 corkage fee). Open Sun. for brunch only. 2028 Chestnut Blvd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-794-7102 $$$ L, D, T No credit cards Cilantro Upscale Thai and Japanese, extensive menu, fresh ingredients, hand-selected sushi and no MSG. Eclectic atmosphere. 326 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-434-2876 $$$ L, D, A, T Circle L Steakhouse The new menu offers a wide selection of steak cuts, and the atmosphere provides an upscale, rustic feel. Sunday brunch and live entertainment. 201 Park Centre Dr. (Wadsworth) 330-335-7913 $$$$ B, L, D, A Cleats Club Seat Grille This sports pub and grill features burgers, “the official chicken wing of the Cleveland Indians” and the longest happy hour around, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Entertainment at 10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 469 College St. (Wadsworth) 330-3345151 $$ L, D, A, T Coffee Pot Café Located in the main Akron-Summit County Public Library building. Coffee, salads and sandwiches.

Open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and special events. 60 S. High St. (Akron) 330-376-7839 $ B, L, T The Corkscrew Saloon Specializes in fresh seafood, steaks and chops, prepared by executive chef Ryan Marino. Live entertainment Wed. nights.

811 W. Liberty (Medina) 330-725-0220 $$$$ L, D, A, T Cortabella’s Italian Eatery In addition to a soup, salad and pasta bar, the menu includes seafood, poultry, steak, pizzas and calzones, desserts and a wine list and full bar. 10 Tallmadge Circle (Tallmadge) 330-633-7844 $$ L, D, A, T Craft Beer Bar A large variety of craft beer, cocktails, wines and whiskeys that accompany upscale bar food.

Watermark Building, 1846 Front St., Suite G (Cuyahoga Falls) 234-571-1409 $$$ D, A, T, V Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 57 E. Market St. (Akron) 330-253-1234 $$ L, D, A, T, V Cristo’s House of Pasta Pizza, manicotti and stuffed shells are a few of the favorites. Closed Sun. 1275 Norton Ave. (Norton) 330-825-1994 $$ L, D, A, T The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard A modern industrial building that houses a state-of-the-art winery facility, wine bar and eatery.

Perfect for a fun lunch, casual dinner or late snack. Closed Sun. Opens 11 a.m., Mon.-Sat. 1700 55th St. NE (Canton) 330-497-1000 $$ L, D, A D’Agneses Tomato Grill Wide array of entrée choices. Sunday brunch.

Catering available. 106 First St. (Hudson) 330-342-3771 $$$$ L, D, A, T D’Agneses at White Pond Crossing Northern and Southern Italian cuisine made in-house with fresh ingredients. Sunday brunch only. 566 White Pond Dr. (Akron) 234-678-3612 $$$$ L, D, A, T

Danny Boy’s If you love the Rat Pack, you’ll love this menu. Try the Old Blue Eyes Mac & Cheese, the Hammy Davis Jr. Melt or The Chairman of the Board Calzone. 6081 Dressler Rd. N (Canton: Belden Village) 330-499-3726 $$$ L, D, A, T Dave’s Cosmic Subs Sign the walls at this sub stop, featuring psychedelic and music memorabilia decor. 186 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-342-5666; 215 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-346-0620 $$ L, D, T Dave’s Tip Top Pleasant atmosphere with home-style menu. Perfect for family dining. 3428 Darrow Rd. (Stow) 330-688-3171 $$ B, L, D, T David B’s Grill & Pub Known locally for excellent service and a variety of foods. 3900 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-666-1191 $$ L, D, A, T D.B.A. (Dante Boccuzzi Akron) Modern American food in a rock ‘n’ roll palace setting. Several menu items can be ordered in varied portion sizes, based on your appetite. Vegetarian and vegan options available. Order a drink and relax on the restaurant’s spacious patio. 21 Furnace St. (Akron) 330-375-5050 $$$$ D, A, T, V Delanie’s Neighborhood Grille Comfort food, sporty atmosphere and full bar. 67 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-630-2888 $$$ L, D, A, T Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970. Specializes in “Family Style” shish kabobs. 204 12th St. NW (Canton) 330456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-7625877 $ B, L, A, D (Saturdays only), T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, authentic 1950s-style décor. All steaks are hand-cut, and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No credit cards Dontino’s Restaurant Homestyle Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T Downtown 140 Executive Chef Richard E. Bennett IV calls his food style “minimalist new American.” He uses as few ingredients as possible to make an impact and keep clean flavors on the menu at this fine-dining establishment.

140 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-6552940 $$$$ L, D, A Eadie’s Fish House Bar & Grill All kinds of seafood, including fried alligator bites, lobster tail and homemade lump crabcakes. 6616 Wise Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-494-4000 $$$ L, D, A, T Eddy’s Deli and Restaurant Try the banana-split waffle, a corned beef sandwich or chicken paprikash.

2655 Oakwood Dr. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-7489; 4581 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-346-0551 $$ B, L, D, 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) 330-869-3000 $$$ D, A, T El Campesino Authentic Mexican cuisine. 4360 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-5561; 9169 State Rte. 14 (Streetsboro) 330626-9777; 4048 Lincolnway E. (Massillon) 330-477-8731 $$ L, D, A, T El Fogon Mexican Grill Traditional Mexican fare from the owner of El Campesino in Canton and Perry Township.

Full bar and weekly margarita specials. Open 7 days. 1080 Interstate Pkwy. (Green) 330644-7700 $$ L, D, A, T El Rancho Traditional Mexican fare made fresh from scratch each day.Weekly margarita and happy hour specials.

Open 7 days. 4065 State Road,(Cuyahoga Falls) 330922-8112; 1666 West Exchange St. (Akron) 330-864-3300 $$ L,D,A,T El Rincon Authentic Mexican cuisine. 1485 S. Arlington St. (Akron: South) 330-785-3724; 720 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330-497-2229 $$ L, D, A, T Emma Marie’s Italiano Casual Italian dining and cocktails. Specialties include veal and pasta dishes. Closed Sun. 161 N. Chestnut St. (Ravenna) 330-298-9773 $$$ L, D, A, T The Eye Opener Diner-style menu features jams and jellies from Crooked River Herb Farm.

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

Closed Sun. 2625 Bailey Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-3500 $ L, D, T Farmer Boy Restaurant House specialties include Greek souvlaki, broaster chicken and delicious desserts. 1324 Canton Rd. (Akron: East) 330-784-4052 $$ B, L, D, T The Fat Bob Grill Housed in The American Legion building, this restaurant provides big portions at low prices. Burgers, pizza and salads. Chef David Tate also offers homecooked meals for four for only $25. Pickup or delivery only. 783 W. Market St. (Akron: Highland Square) 330926-7919 $$ B, L, D, T Firehouse Grill & Pub Watch sports and enjoy steaks and buffalo wings. 1677 E. Market St. (Akron: East) 330733-6279; 2437 Canton Rd. (Akron) 330-699-3616; 4809 S. Prospect St. (Rootstown)

330-325-0706; 76 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-634-9967 $$ L, D, A Fisher’s Café & Pub American cuisine. 1607 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-657-2651 $$ L, D, A, T Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Aged beef, chops, fresh seafood, salad and more than 100 wines by the glass. 4000 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330-6705200 $$$$ 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) 330655-3547 $$ L, D, A, T Franklin Square Deli Quality sandwich shop with an auto-racing theme. 108 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-673-2942 $$ 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 Fresco Mexican Grill and Salsa Bar A new Mexican cuisine experience in the Kent area. Big burritos, tacos, warm soups, quesadillas and more. Known for its beer selection and extensive salsa bar. 100 E. Erie St. (Kent) 330677-2588 $$ L, D, A, T The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building. Fantastic desserts. 201 Park Centre Dr. (Wadsworth) 330-334-3663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Game Grill + Bar The menu of the new street-level restaurant at Akron’s Canal Park includes several local classics, including sauerkraut balls and Whitey’s chili. Steve Smith, formerly with One Red Door in Hudson and Ken Stewart’s in Akron, is executive chef.

Saturday and Sunday brunch.

Canal Park, 300 S. Main St. (Akron) B, L, D, A, T, V Garretts Mill Breakfast items, sandwiches, soup and homemade ice cream. 4226 Hudson Dr. (Stow) 330-9261344 $$ B, L, T Gasoline Alley Eclectic menu featuring pizza, salads, sandwiches and sauerkraut balls. 870 N. ClevelandMassillon Rd. (Bath) 330-6662670 $$$ L, D, A, T Geisen Haus Generous portions, great beer selection.

6955 Promway Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-499-9116 $$$ L, D, A, T Golden Dragon Chinese fare. Also offers traditional Japanese cooking and sushi.

1634 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-9291109 $$ L, D, A, T Green Diamond Grille & Pub Upscale dining without upscale pricing.

Specializes in steaks, chops, baby back ribs and seafood. 125 Second St. (Barberton) 330-745-1900 $$$ L, D, A, T Gas Pump Bar & Grille Fresh homemade food at a reasonable price. Try their specialty hot dogs. Kids’ menu and daily specials. Closed Sun. 2215 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 330-794-2222 $$ L, D, A, T 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; 1212 Maple (Hartville) 330-587-4280; 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 H2 Huth and Harris Wine

Merchants Savory and sweet tapas, made with ingredients from local farms and bakeries, to enjoy with your wine, craft beer or coffee. 221 S. Court St. (Medina) 330815-4959 $$$ L, D, A, T Hattie’s Café & Gifts Training and vocational site for people with disabilities.

Features coffee, homemade pastries, ice cream, soups, salads and sandwiches. 520 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-535-1779 $ B, L, D, T Henry Wahner’s Restaurant An old favorite across from KSU. Complete German menu. German-style bar with

beers served in ice-cold steins. 1609 E. Main St. (Kent) 330-678-4055 $$$$ D, A, T No credit cards Hibachi Japan Steak House Japanese Hibachi-style cooking, great steak and sushi. 2251 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-3333 $$$ L, D, A, T Hopocan Gardens Barberton-style chicken. 4396 W. Hopocan Ave. (Barberton) 330-825-9923 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards House of Hunan Common favorites to spicy specialties. Oriental décor. 12 E. Exchange St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-2531888; 2717 W. Market St. (Fairlawn Town Centre) 330-864-8201; 18 Public Square (Medina) 330-722-1899 $$ L, D, A, T Hudson’s Restaurant Neighborhood restaurant and bar serving fresh, chef-driven dishes. Family-friendly atmosphere. 80 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-650-1955; 3900 Medina Rd. (Akron: West) 330-666-7777 $$ B, L, D, A, T Hyde Park Grille New York-style upscale steakhouse. 4073 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-670-6303 $$$$ D, A, T, V Ido Bar & Grill Home of the beloved Ido Burger. An Akron tradition since World War II. 1537 S. Main St. (Akron: South) 330-7731724 $$$ L, D, A, T Istocki’s Shish Kebob House Souvlaki, gyros, salads and grilled entrees.

Homemade baklava, cheesecake roll and cinnamon pita with icing. 77 Westgate Circle (Akron: Wallhaven) 330-869-2550. $$ L, D, A, T Ivan’s Diner Menu includes sandwiches, burgers, subs and salads. Open Mon.-Sat.

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2927 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-836-3553 $$ L, T Jilly’s Music Room Creative American tapas in a sophisticated setting with live music, concerts and events Wednesday through Saturday. All gluten-free menu. 111 N. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-5765960 $$ D, A Jimmy Bigg’s Grille Burgers, Italian subs, Reubens, wings, Philly cheese steak, BLTs, salads, hand-breaded onion rings and more. 1927 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330929-2444 $$ L, D, A, T Kasai Japanese Restaurant Sushi, hibachi, noodles, don buri, agamono and more. Enjoy a glass of wine, and finish your meal with tempura cheesecake. 295 Weatherstone Dr. (Wadsworth) 330-3347141 $$$ L, D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Grille Widely recognized as one of Akron’s finest. Upscale, eclectic cuisine. Emphasis on steak and seafood.

1970 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-8672555 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Ken Stewart’s Lodge Casual, Adirondack-style atmosphere, eclectic cuisine. 1911 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-8881 $$$$ D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Tre Belle Italian atmosphere and authentic cuisine.

Specialties include an antipasto bar, big drinks and an extensive wine list. 1911 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-6669990 $$$ D, A, V, T Kennedy’s BBQ Pit-smoked ham, pork, beef, turkey, pulled pork sandwiches topped with cabbage relish, bean soup, chili and 59

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;d`eo More of what you need to know for your weekend More things to do More places to eat and drink

;d`eo Check out Enjoy! every Thursday inside your Akron Beacon Journal and every day on Ohio.com/entertainment

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Troyer’s pie by the slice. 1420 7th St. NW (Canton) 330-454-0193 $ L, D, T Kozmo’s Grille Stone-hearth pizzas, upscale pasta dishes, fresh seafood and steaks.

37 First St. NW (Massillon) 330-832-8807 $$$ L, D, A, T LagerHeads BBQ Smokehouse and Brewing Co. Try the BBQ ribs, smoked wings and beer cheese soup, made with Barnburner lager. For dessert, taste the fruit crisp made with grains used to brew their signature beers. 2832 Abbeyville Rd. (Medina) 330-725-1947 $$$ L, D, A, T Lanning’s Restaurant Elegant dining atmosphere with a beautiful view. More than 150 types of wine. 826 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-1159, 330-864-2553 $$$$ D, A, T, V Laroush Mediterranean Food and Smoothies Hand-roasted vegetables, meat and produce from local farms. Falafel, hummus, spinach pies and salads. Vegetarian and vegan items. 425 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330-677-1282 $$ L, D, T Larry’s Main Entrance English-pub style, burgers of note. 1964 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-864-8162 $$ L, D, A, T Laziza High-end Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, plus steak and seafood dishes and a full bar. Acorn Alley, 195 E. Erie St. (Kent) 330-677-7000 $$$ L, D, A, T Lembo’s Italian Restaurant Weekday lunchtime salad and pizza buffet, Italian specialties, chicken dinners and sandwiches.

Daily specials, lunch specials, kids’ menu.

1186 Canton Rd. (Akron) 330-733-5757 $$$ L, D, A, T The Leopard Eclectic menu with American, Asian, French and Italian influences. Features seven-course chef’s table, prix fixe. 600 N. Aurora Rd. (Aurora) 330-562-2111 $$$$ D, A, T, V The Lockview Traditional American favorites. Fresh menu with spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T Louie’s Bar & Grille Local reputation for burgers. 739 E. Glenwood Ave. (Akron: North) 330-535-5030 $ L, D, A, T Luca’s New York Style Pizza Pizza, calzones, stromboli, cheese steaks and subs.

3451 Darrow Rd. (Stow) 330-688-9595 $$$ L, D, T Lucca Downtown Locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. Italian-inspired menu.

Call for reservations. 228 4th St. NW (Canton) 330-456-2534. $$$$ L, D, A, T Luchita’s Authentic Mexican cuisine with a four-star rating. 36 Park Lane (Hudson) 330655-0059 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Lucia’s Steakhouse Fresh seafood, signature garlic butter-topped steaks, Italian favorites and Lucia classics, like homemade crab cakes or cubanella and long, hot peppers.

Closed Sun. 4769 Belpar St. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330-492-9933 $$$$ D, A Luigi’s Restaurant An Akron icon. Open late. Serves superb Italian cuisine, salads and award-winning pizza. Voted Best Pizza and Best Italian Restaurant by akronlife readers.

Party trays and sheet-pan pizzas available with 24-hour notice. 105 N. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-2999 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards Lukity Country Inn Home-style comfort may 2015

food. 2697 Manchester Rd. (Akron: South) 330-753-5983 $$ B, L, D, T The Main Street Grill A unique concept in in-store dining. The pancake special starts your day off right. 175 Great Oaks Trail in Buehler’s Foods (Wadsworth) 330-336-3588 $$ B, L, D, T Main Street Grille Perfect for date nights.

Sit in the cellar and enjoy the music of a local pianist while you enjoy a casual upscale dinner. We suggest the chicken pesto penne and the Kahlua mocha cheesecake. 123 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330-497-1117 $$$$ L, D, A, T Main Wok Fast Chinese cuisine. 2855 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-8885 $$ L, D, T Accepts Discover and MasterCard Maize Valley Winery Sample wine by bottle or glass, as well as craft beer.

Taste 100+ types of cheeses. Appetizers and sandwiches. Full dinner menu on Sat. evenings. 6193 Edison St. NE (Hartville) 330877-8344 $$ L, D, A Mandarin House Chinese and South Asian entrees. 3201 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-8157 $$ L, D, A, T Marcelita’s Southwestern atmosphere, guacamole made fresh daily, authentic Mexican fare. 7774 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330650-1121 $$ L, D, A, T Mariachi Locos Fast, authentic Mexican cuisine. 2215 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: East) 330-733-4065; 4161 Steels Point (Stow) 330922-3307 $$ L, D, A, T Marques Cajun, Creole and soul food on the plate, and live jazz and blues music in the air.

Gospel brunch on Sundays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

111 Cleveland Ave. SW (Canton) 330-3131030 $$ B, L, D, A, T Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s Best Red Sauce. Known for endless ice cream options. 780 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-253-1511 $$ L, D Mavis Winkle’s Irish Pub Large, eclectic menu, cozy atmosphere and live music. 5005 Rockside Rd. (Independence) 216-525-0770; 8870 Darrow Rd. (Twinsburg) 330-405-3663 $$$ 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 $$$ L, D, A Meet Me At Irene’s House favorites include chili, omelets and daily specials, such as Swiss steak, beef tips, meatloaf and tuna melts. 264 Kent Ave. N.E. (Hartville) 330-8776477 $ B, L, T Menches Brothers Restaurant Inventors of the hamburger and ice cream cone. In Akron since 1901. 3700 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-2288 $$ B, L, D, A, T Michael’s AM Casual, family-style dining.

Full breakfast and lunch menu featuring sandwiches and daily specials.1562 AkronPeninsula Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-9293447 $ B, L, T No credit cards Mike’s Place Unique atmosphere, extensive menu. 1700 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-673-6501 $ B, L, D, A, T Moe’s Hip, intimate atmosphere featuring a diverse chalkboard menu that changes monthly. Martinis, cocktails and extensive selection of wines by the glass. Closed Sun. 2385 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-6600 $$$$ L, D, A, T

Molly Brown’s Country Cafe Big breakfasts, South of the Border menu items and large portions. 1792 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-945-4407; 519 Canton Rd. (Ellet) 330-784-4711; 5151 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-244-9322 $$ B, L, T Mr. Zubs 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. (Highland Square) 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) 330-493-8239 $$$ 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) 330-666-7333 $$$ L, D, T New Era Restaurant A mainstay of the Akron area. Heavenly paprikash and other Hungarian favorites. 10 Massillon Rd. (Akron: East) 330-784-0087 $$ B, L, D, A, T New York 2 Chicago Pizzeria Menu inspired by the famous thin crust pizza of New York and the deep-dish pizza of Chicago.

Sauce and dough made fresh daily. Salads and wings. Closed Sun. 4320-1 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-6922 $$ L, D, T Nicoletti’s Park Place Located in the former Hook, Line and Drinkers, this spot’s fine dining menu features fresh pasta, lobster tail, fish, osso bucco, lamb and pork chops.

The outdoor grill features a casual menu with burgers, steaks and other entrees. 530 Portage Lakes Dr. (Coventry Township) $$ L, D, A, T, V 91 Wood Fired Oven Upscale casual, West Coast atmosphere. Pizza and pasta are specialties. Patio dining. 1983 Easton St. NW in Washington Square Plaza (North Canton) 330-498-9191; 5570 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-497-9111 $$$ D, A, T Nuevo Modern Mexican and Tequila Bar Owned by Zack and Lisa Hirt, this restaurant serves fresh Mexican cuisine in the downtown Gothic Building. Try a tequila flight. Gluten-free menu also available. 54 E. Mill St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-762-8000 $$$$ L, D, A, T The Oaks Lakeside Casual dining, fabulous ambiance in 1914 estate. Outdoor dining and water views. Banquet facility. 5878 Longacre Lane (Chippewa Lake) 800-9225736 $$$$ D, A The Office Metropolitan bistro and lounge with eclectic ambiance and timeless decor.

778 N. Main St. (Akron) 330-376-9550; 1846 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-376-9550 $$$ L, D, A, T, V (Cuyahoga Falls location only) One Eleven Bistro House manager Meghan Pender and executive chef Anthony Scolaro own this new eatery which features starters, soups and salads, sandwiches, pasta and entrees, as well as an extensive wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Weekend brunch available. Closed Mon. 2736 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-952-1122 $$$$ D, A, T

One Red Door Decadent menu featuring gourmet pizzas, share plates such as baconwrapped roasted dates, and burgers. Closed Sun. 49 Village Way (Hudson) 330-342-3667 $$$$ L, D, A On Point Restaurant Basic breakfasts to soul food dinners. 2200 Romig Road (Akron) 330-861-1000 $$$ B, L, D, T On Tap Relaxed atmosphere, great gyros and Greek food.

3263 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-922-0464; 2905 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-725-1972; 4396 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-6865359; 562 Portage Lakes Dr. (Akron) 330-644-1664; 2736 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330-7251972 $$ L, D, A, T Open Door Coffee Co. This café is housed in the landmark Saywell building, across from the Hudson green.

Coffee, smoothies, pastries, music and art. 164 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-653-5900 $ B, L, D, T Orchard House Restaurant Menu features a variety of comfort foods and BBQ favorites prepared in the area’s only applewood smoker.

Closed Mon. Sunday brunch.

294 Pearl Rd. (Brunswick) 330225-5576 $$$ L, D, T Pad Thai Elegant restaurant, extensive menu of traditional Thai dishes. 3545 Brookwall Dr. (Fairlawn) 330-668-9981; 5657 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-6509998 $$$ L, D, A, T Pammie’s Get your fill of soul food, ribs, chicken and fish. 1364 Copley Rd. (Akron) 330-4750406; 401 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (North Hill) 330-926-9191 $$ L, D, T Pancho & Lefty’s Popular neighborhood cantina. 3254 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-6781 $$ 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) 330818-5531 $$ B, L, D, T Paolo’s Small menu of appetizers, paninis and salads. Tues., martini specials; Wed., sushi specials; Thurs., university night drink specials.

1 W. Exchange St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-252-1995 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Bear’s Italian Restaurant Authentic, homemade Italian food. 4990 Dressler Rd. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330-493-0090 $$$ L, D, A, T Papa Gyros Greek Grill

Authentic Greek fare.

Greek wine and beer.

4760 Everhard Rd. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 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) 330-688-3650; 364 Wooster Rd. N. (Barberton) 330-7532264 $$ L, D, A, T Park Street Pizza Locally-grown and -raised ingredients are used to make regular and gluten-free pizzas, salads, wings, sandwiches and desserts. 215 Dover Road (Sugarcreek) 330-8522993 $$$ L, D, T Peachtree Southern Kitchen & Cocktails An upscale, family-friendly spot serving Southern fare from the Low Country. Sunday brunch. 200 N. Main St. (Hudson) 216-9789640 L, D, A Pillitiere’s The sub sandwiches and affordable lunches are a Firestone Park tradition. 61 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: South) 330-773-0206 $ B, L, D, A, T PINTS! Your Premiere Liquid Grille Numerous tap offerings along with sandwiches, pizza, wings and fried delicacies. 426 E. Exchange St. (Akron: University Park) 330535-2276 $ L, D, A, T Piscazzi’s The Merchant Tavern With owner Anthony Piscazzi’s family history running Akron’s beloved Wine Merchant restaurant and chef Victor Todaro in the kitchen, this new restaurant already has a great start. Retail wines available.

Hours: Tues.,Wed.,Thurs. 3:30 p.m. - 12 a.m., Fri. 3:30 p.m. 1:30 a.m., Sat. Noon - 1:30 a.m., Sun. Noon - 9 p.m. Lunch served on weekends. 1824 Merriman Rd. (Akron: Merriman Valley) $$$ L, D, A, T Pizza Fire The first fast casual, fast-fired pizza restaurant in Northeast Ohio. 22 W. Exchange St. (Akron:

Downtown) 330-535-4545 $$ L, D, A, T Platinum Dragon A great spot for people-watching. Menu features a variety of Chinese favorites. 814 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-434-8108 $$ 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 $$$$ L, D, A, T Primo’s Deli An Akron mainstay since 1979. Try their famous corned beef sandwich or spicy Italian sub, and finish with a slice of homemade carrot cake. Closed Sun. and Mon. 1707 Vernon Odom Blvd. (Akron) 330-7459056 $$ L, D, A, T Pub Bricco The menu features gourmet hamburgers, appetizers, salads and drinks served in a pub atmosphere. 1841 Merriman Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-869-0035 $$ L, D, A, T Pufferbelly Ltd. Located in historic Kent railroad depot. 152 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330673-1771 $$$ L, D, A, T The Rail High-quality Ohio beef used for burgers. Top with specialty condiments like truffle butter or sunflower-basil pesto.

Veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, milkshakes, and local and craft beers. 3265 W. Market St. in Summit Mall (Akron) 330864-7245; 4347 Belden Village Mall (Canton) 330-497-7550 $$ L, D, A, T Raj Mahal Traditional Indian cuisine with excellent lamb and chicken curry dishes. Daily lunch buffet. 2035 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-926-0795 $$$ L, D, T Ray’s Place Great burgers, hearty dinners

and the area’s largest selection of foreign and domestic beer in the bottle and on draft. 135 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330-673-2253; 25 Ghent Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-835-2233 $$ 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) 330-650-1717 $$$$ L, D, A, T Retro Dog Family-owned and operated, this dine-in/drive-in restaurant serves char-grilled hotdogs, hand-patted burgers, fresh-cut fries, tempura-battered onion rings, vegetarianfriendly items, home-brewed root beer and homemade custard, floats, shakes and treats.

350 E. Steels Corners Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-3500 $ L, D, T Rockne’s Notorious for huge sandwiches and pub food at a great price. Try Rockne’s Terminator Sub: shaved beef, grill-seared and covered in cheese and fries, topped with lettuce, mayo and Rockne’s dressing on a buttered, grilled long bun. Children’s menu available. 7 Merriman Rd. (Akron) 330-762-7555; 1203 Bailey Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-922-3663; 2914 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-836-7662; 1450 E. Main St. (Kent) 330-677-0904; 155 Lincolnway W (Massillon) 330-833-8800; 5121 Buehlers Dr. (Medina) 330-725-3663; 5000 Portage St. (North Canton) 330-244-4212; 4240 Hudson Dr. (Stow) 330-922-9960; 9406 St. Rte. 14 (Streetsboro) 330-422-8010 $$ L, D, A, T Rosewood Grill Seasonally inspired with the fresh appeal of a local farmer’s market. Happy hour, Mon.-Fri., 3-6 p.m. 36 E. Streetsboro St. (Hudson) 330-656-2100 $$$$ L (Fri/Sat only), D, A, T w w w. akronlife.com

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 $$$$ L, D, A, T Rusty Nail Casual atmosphere serving quality steak, seafood and chicken. 7291 State Rte. 43 (Kent) 330-673-2297 $$$ D, A, T Saffron Patch Fine Indian cuisine including tandoori chicken, ginger-seasoned yellow lentils and garlic naan. 1224 Weathervane Lane (Akron) 330-836-7777 $$$ L, D, A, T Sakura Fresh sushi served daily. Wide selection of specialty rolls. 3900 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330-670-0288 $$$ L, D, T Sammie’s Bar and Grill Dave DeLapa’s restaurant menu features burgers, sandwiches, comfort food and appetizers. 498 South Ave. (Tallmadge) 234-678-8334 $$ L, D, A, T Sarah’s Vineyard Sample high-quality wines, appetizers and desserts in the tasting room, on the deck or in the butterfly garden.

Open Wed.-Sun. 1204 W. Steels Corners Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-8057 $$ L, D, A Schwebel Room Fine dining on KSU campus. (Kent) 330-672-2583 $$$ L, D, A, T Siamone’s Restaurant Specializing in Thai and Cambodian cuisine. 2215 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 330-733-5070 $$$ L, D, A, T Sisters Century House Historic building overlooks Ohio Canal. Known for twice-baked potatoes. 123 S. Canal St. (Canal Fulton) 330-854-9914 $$ B, L, D, T Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition. Drive-in burgers, fast fare.

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big bite

by Molly Gase and photos by Christa Allen

Kosar’s Wood-Fired Grill Football-inspired steakhouse provides a casually elegant dining experience

As soon as you step into Kosar’s WoodFired Grill the richest aroma of burning hardwoods washes over you. All of the excitement of the Rocksino’s many games and events slows into an electric hum. You slip into the causually elegant dining room and allow all of the scents to permeate your senses.

Located in Northfield Park’s Hard Rock Rocksino, Kosar’s is a steakhouse featuring Wagyu beef, which Executive Chef Chris Poplin says is similar to the famous Kobe beef.

“It’s basically the same exact breed; it was just brought over here and raised in the United States. So it is very tender, lots of marbling, lots of flavor,” says Poplin. Another positive attribute of Wagyu beef is its price. Poplin says that is considerably less expensive to the consumer while still being an incredibly tasty steak. “We really use all fresh, USDA grain-fed beef. We don’t get too cute with the seasoning or the preparation of the steaks. We use a wood-fired broiler and we only season with salt, pepper, and a little bit of olive oil.

We believe that the steaks should stand up on their own, which they do,” says Poplin.

Originally from San Diego, Calif., Poplin has been cooking up scrumptious creations in

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casinos such as The Venetian in Las Vegas and the Coushatta Casino Resort in Louisiana.

Now at the Rocksino, Poplin has built a menu that highlights the restaurant’s major show piece – the wood-burning grill. The large grilling surface can be manually raised and lowered for temperature control and is heated with local firewood. “The wood that we’re grilling off of is right here in the dining room, which is also bought locally,” says Poplin.

If you are not a fan of steaks, don’t worry, there are many options available at Kosar’s.

Poplin recommends the blackened halibut with a raspberry demi-glaze. The restaurant also features a fresh salad bar.

The dining room is sprinkled with Bernie Kosar memorabilia, which added to the football-textured chair backings, gently hints at a sports theme without over-doing it.

The dining area itself is divided for different dining experiences. “The dining room is basically broken up into two sections. One of them is our more formal white tablecloth area and we also have an area that is closer to the kitchen, with nice high-top [tables] and leather-backed chairs. It’s a little more

may 2015

of a casual feel,” says Poplin. In the hightop section, diners have a view of both the ongoing work in the kitchen and of their food as it sizzles upon the grill.

Though Poplin says that Kosar’s is currently a tough table to get, and reservations are recommended, it also caters to a wide variety of patrons. “We are unique in the fact that Kosar’s doesn’t have to be a special occasion restaurant, yet we do a good enough job that it certainly can be. It’s really both. We’ve got extensive wine and cocktail lists, a great bar, and a good place to watch the game – there are all kinds of reasons [to come here].”

Whether you are celebrating your 50th anniversary or your 21st birthday, Poplin says that they can make it an experience to remember.

When asked what he would order, Poplin didn’t hesitate for even a second. “Hands down, our best steak is what we call “The 19.”

It’s not even our most expensive steak, but it’s our best. We label it “The 19” because of Bernie Kosar and his number 19 that he wore when he was playing, but it is a USDA Prime New York Strip and it’s out of this world. It is really fantastic.”

For Kosar’s Wagyu Flank Steak with Smokey Mushrooms recipe, see next page.

To learn more about the restaurant, its menu, and to make reservations, visit www. hrrocksinonorthfieldpark.com. w w w. akronlife.com

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Wagyu Flank Steak with

Smokey Mushrooms INGREDIENTS: 2-8 oz portions 1 Tbl. 2 tsp.

3 Tbl. 4 oz.

1 tsp.

1/4 cup 3 Tbl. 6 oz.

2 tsp.

Wagyu or USDA Prime Flank Steak Kosher Salt Black pepper, ground Olive oil Assorted mushrooms Lemon juice Red onions, thinly sliced Seasoned flour Demi-glace or thickened stock Green peppercorns, drained and rinsed

PROCEDURE: 1. Add mushrooms to a slotted pan or basked and grill mushrooms over open flame for maximum flavor. Add small amount of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Add lemon juice.

2. Rub flank steak with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place on hot broiler or grill and cook to desired temperature.

3. Heat demi-glace and add green peppercorns.

4. Lightly dust red onions with seasoned flour and gently fry in a small amount of oil until crisp.

5. Add smoked mushrooms to plate and thinly slice flank steak. Arrange slices around mushrooms.

Top with crispy fried onions and drizzle sauce around the plate.

Note – preferred cooking method would be on an outdoor grill over wood and or charcoal.

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may 2015

2781 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Rd. (Green) 330-896-9350; 3296 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-721-8561 $ L, D, T Smoke-N-Joe’s BBQ and Soul Food Barbecued beef, ribs, brisket, chicken, fish, shrimp, sausages, pulled pork and Southern-style side dishes.1458 Lakemore Rd. (Lakemore) 330-6879591 L, D, T Sonnets Espresso Bar & Restaurant Signature blend coffee, local craft beer, made-toorder sandwiches, salads, soups, kids’ meals and live music every weekend. Closed Sun. 117 College St. (Wadsworth) 330-336-5557 $$ B, L, D, A, T The Sound Garden Café Live music, spirits and burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches. 2156 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 330-858-3951 $$ L, D, A, T Southern Gardens Restaurant & Tea Room Enjoy quiche, soups, sandwiches and salads, as well as Southern-style and authentic Southeast Asian cuisine. Over 50 loose leaf teas are brewed by the pot right at your table and are available for purchase to take home. Children’s menu available. Closed Mon. 497 Portage Lakes Dr. (Akron) 330-644-8363 $$ L, D, T Spennato’s Italian Ristorante Seafood, chicken, pasta and pizza, as well as attentive service and a casual dining atmosphere. 10446 Northfield Rd. (Northfield) 330-468-8688 $$$ L, D, A, T Steinly’s Down-home breakfasts are a mainstay.

235 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: South) 330-773-6422 $ B, L, D, T Stew Pot Kitchen Serves soups, stews, slowcooked meals, beer-flavored brats and more. Menu changes weekly. Specials offer unique flavors and pairings. Closed weekends. 23 S. Main St. (Akron) 330-376-7839 $ L, D, T Strickland’s Founded in 1936. Run by the third generation of the Strickland family. 1809 Triplett Blvd.

(Akron); 4050 Cascades Blvd., Unit A, (Brimfield) 330-346-0166; 294 Pearl Rd. (Brunswick) 330-2734600; 2629 Bailey Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-9298498; 3465 S. Arlington Rd. (Green) 330-899-9477; 2930 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-721-9567; 3985 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-670-0811; 3916 Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Norton) 330-706-9920; 9070 State Rt. 14 (Streetsboro) 330-626-2750 $ 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) 330794-7952 $$ B, L, T Swensons Drive In Voted Best Burger in akronlife’s Best of the City. Signature burger is the Galley Boy. 658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-8515; 40 S. Hawkins Ave. (Akron: West) 330-864-8416; 4466 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-678-7775; 40 Brookmont Rd. (Montrose) 330-665-1858; 5815 Wales Ave. (Jackson Twp.) 330-833-5454; 1558 N. Main St. (North Canton) 330-499-9494 $ L, D, T Table Six Kitchen + Bar This gastro pub serves small plates so guests are welcome to order several items and share with each other for a unique culinary experience. Food comes out as it’s ready, so dig in until the next plate arrives. Specialty drinks available. 6113 Whipple Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-305-1666 $$$ L, D, A, 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 Taggart’s Ice Cream Established in 1926, this landmark features wrought-iron “ice cream parlor” chairs and high-backed booths. Try the Bittner!

Homemade soups, salads and sandwiches. Kids’ menu and vegetarian options. 1401 Fulton Rd. NW (Canton) 330-452-6844; 107 S. Main (Magnolia)

330-866-9344 $ L, D, T Tai Wah Popular area Chinese takeout, dine in also.

Nice lunch buffet. 5835 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330528-0888 $$ L, D, A, T Tangier Banquet and Events Center Occasionally featuring live entertainment from around the country. Elaborate décor. Quality steaks and seafood. 532 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-376-7171, 800-826-4437 $$$$ D, A, T Taste of Bangkok & Sushi Bar Menu includes curries, noodle dishes and hand-rolled sushi.

Variety of lunch specials. 514 E. Exchange St. (Akron: University Park) 330-252-2270 $$ L, D, T Hoppin’ Frog Brewery This spot offers 24 beers on tap and more than 50 bottles, including imports, and nightly events. Gastropub seasonal menu available. Open Tues.-Sat. 1680 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 234-525-3764 $$ D, A Tequila Pancho’s Many flavors of margaritas.

5893 Akron-Cleveland Rd. (Boston Heights) 330342-9401 $$ L, D, A, T Thano’s Family Restaurant Burgers, chops, chicken, wraps, seafood and pasta. Breakfast served all day, daily specials, Friday fish fry. 50-seat party room. Open 7 days. 71 5th St. (Barberton) 330-8611300 $$ B, L, D, A, T 3 Palms Pizzeria & Bakery Gourmet Neapolitan pizzas baked in an authentic Italian-built wood-burning oven, plus other Italian specialties. 60 Village Way (Hudson) 330-342-4545 $$$ L, D, T 3 Point Upscale casual American dining with a gourmet twist. Hand-cut steaks, pastas, and fresh chicken and seafood. Craft beers from around the world, boutique wine list. 45 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-535-6410 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Thyme2 the Restaurant Contemporary cuisine with worldly influences, served in an upscale, modern setting. 113 W. Smith Rd. (Medina) 330764-4114 $$$$ L, D, A, T Timber Lodge Steaks are hand-selected from the finest USDA Prime and Choice aged beef. Seafood is flown in daily to assure the peak of flavor and freshness. Prime Rib is slow roasted rotisserie-style and hand-carved to your taste. Open Mon.-Thurs.

4 -10 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 4-11 p.m. , Sun. 1-9 p.m. (brunch until 2 p.m.) and kids’ menu. 2809 Pearl Rd., Rte. 42 (Medina) 330-725-6288 $$$ D, A, T Tito’s Mexican Grill Dining room features wooden chairs and tables hand-carved in Mexico.

Run by the owners of El Rincon on South Arlington.

Great meals and even greater margaritas. 25 Ghent Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-835-9801 $$ L, D, A, T Tokyo Hibachi and Sushi Hibachi meals cooked at your table, entrees from the kitchen, as well as sushi and sashimi. 1132 N. Court St. (Medina) 330-952-2818 $$$$ L, D, T Tomaso’s Italian Villa Family-owned and operated for over 50 years. Features classic Italian cuisine. Pasta dinners, pizza, fortunes (calzones), salads, desserts, beer and wine. Kids’ menu. 3271 Barber Rd. (Norton) 330-745-6063 $$ L, D, A, T Tong-Tong First Chinese restaurant in Hudson/Stow area. Family-style dining. 1646 Norton Rd. (Stow) 330-655-2550 $$ L, D, A, T Tony’s Speakeasy A great place to chill.

Home of the Chocolate Martini. Sandwich originals including The Godfather, Sleeps with the Fishes, Joe the Boss and The SpeakEasy Burger. Call for hours.

560 W Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330-753-9454 $$ D, A, T Totally Cooked Lunch Dock Chef Dante D’Avello prepares lunch at his newest location.

Guests can dine inside or enjoy live music on the covered patio. Check out the 18-foot chuckwagon on BBQ Fridays. Open Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 975 E. Tallmadge Ave. (Akron) $$ L, T

Totally Cooked To-Go Market Comfort foods, soups, made-to-order sandwiches and salads, and desserts. Menu changes weekly. Cuyahoga Falls open Mon.-Sat. Akron open weekdays for breakfast and lunch. 2730 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-9239964; 388 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-2941120 $$ B, L, D, T Tozzi’s Restaurant Downtown Canton Chef Mark Green creates an Italian-influenced menu that includes steaks, fish, chicken and pasta dishes, as well as sandwiches, soups and salads. Lunch served Thurs. and Fri. Closed Sun. and Mon. 218 Court Ave. (Canton) 330-471-8000. $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Trackside Grille at Quaker Square Train-themed restaurant with three actual railroad cars inside. 135 S. Broadway St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-4541 $$ L, D, T Twiisted Sushi and traditional Japanese food, with gourmet burgers and steaks, salads, appetizers, desserts and a full bar. Closed Mon. 985 Boardman Alley (Medina) 330-661-0600 $$$ D, A, T Twisted Meltz Nestled in Acorn Alley, this restaurant serves gourmet grilled cheese, salads, soups and ice cream. 164B E. Main St. (Kent) 330968-4104 L, D, T The Twisted Olive Italian American Kitchen Casual classic Italian-American fare prepared in wood-fire ovens and on grills. Indoor and outdoor seating. 5430 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330497-1000 $$$ L, D, A, T Urban Eats - A Pop Art Café Open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 51 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-310-7135 $ B, L, A, V Vaccaro’s Trattoria One of the area’s best-kept Italian secrets. 1000 Ghent Rd. (Bath) 330-666-6158 $$$$ L, D, A, T Valley Café Owned by a five-star gourmet chef.

Features friendly service, dishes made from scratch and famous cabbage soup. 1212 Weathervane Lane (Merriman Valley) 330-865-0101 $ B, L, T The Valley Inn This one-time country roadhouse has been transformed into a family hot-spot. The prime rib is gigantic. 15004 Portage St. (Doylestown) 330-658-9859 $$$ L, D, A, T Varsity Bar & Grill Beer-battered shrimp, chipotle BBQ ribs, Italian trio and twisted BLTs are menu standouts. DJ on Thurs.; live bands Fri. and Sat. Imported and domestic beer; 11 on draft. 271 S. Main St., Suite A (Akron) 330-376-3663 $$ L, D, A, T Vasili’s Greek Cuisine A welcome addition to Akron’s restaurant scene, Vasili’s provides big flavors and huge portions at a reasonable price with excellent customer service. The mousaka is killer good, and the baklava is decadent. 1702 Merriman Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-864-0722 $$ L, D, T Village Inn Chicken Formerly Milich’s Village Inn, now under new ownership with the same great fried chicken, hot sauce and coleslaw recipes. 4444 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road (Barberton) 330-8254553 $$ L, D, T Village Gardens Restaurant and Pub Family restaurant. 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 Vito Corleone’s Italian Grille Authentic Italian dishes, like cozze di Napoli, Bolognese and puttanesca, served in a “Godfather”-themed setting.

Try their “Mob Mixes” drinks, like the Marlon Brando or Mafia’s Kiss, with tiramisu or gelato for dessert.

Menu includes meals for “Little Gambinos.” 3242 Lincoln Way E (Massillon) 330-880-0760 $$$ L, D, A, T Virtues Signature foods such as a tempura calamari appetizer. Specialty pizzas, filet mignon and other w w w. akronlife.com

gourmet items with high nutritional values. 525 E. Market St. (in Akron City Hospital’s Ann and David Brennan CCU) 330-375-7444 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, V V-Li’s Cuisine Thai dishes. 129 N. Canal St. (Canal Fulton) 330-854-5344 $$ L, D, A, T Wally Waffle Breakfast served all day! Try the Elvis Waffle, loaded with bacon and peanut butter chips and topped with honey and sliced bananas. Plus, burgers, gyros, chicken sandwiches, fresh salads and more. 845 W. Market St. (Akron: Highland Square) 330-374-4915; 750 Darrow Rd. (Tallmadge) 330633-7400 $$ B, L, D (Highland Square location only), T Wasabi Japanese Steakhouse Hibachi steakhouse and sushi bar. Chefs prepare food right before your eyes. 150 Montrose West Ave. (Copley) 330-666-5522; 6338 Strip Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-966-8866 $$$$ L, D, T Waterloo Restaurant Eclectic menu. Famous for the Waterloo Big Apple and French onion soup.

423 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: South) 330-773-5158 $$ B, L, D, T West Side Bakery Specialties include cakes, pastries and cookies. Breakfast items include scones, muffins and yogurt parfaits. All sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups are made from scratch. 2303 W. Market St. (Akron: Pilgrim Square) 330-836-4101; 1840 Town Park Blvd. (Green) 330-899-9968 $ B, L, T Whitehouse Chicken A Barberton tradition.

180 Wooster Rd. N. (Barberton) 330-745-0449; 2457 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-945-6555; 1941 Triplet (Ellet) 330-784-3000; 4195 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-5644; 137 East Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-633-4001; 199 Great Oaks Trail (Wadsworth) 330-335-6000; 247 S. Chestnut St. (Ravenna) 330296-2800 $$ L, D, T Whitey’s Booze N’ Burgers Famous chili, generous portions and live entertainment on the weekends. 3600 Brecksville Rd. (Richfield) 330-6593600 $$ D, A No credit cards The Wine Mill Open daily for wine, craft beer, and bites made from fresh, local ingredients, The rustic Wine Mill serves salads, sliders and cheeseboards, along with Mason jar desserts. The Wine Mill is available for weddings and private events. Closed Sun. 4964 Akron Cleveland Rd. (Peninsula) 234-5712594 $$$ L, D, A, V Winking Lizard Come to see the lizard, stay for the extensive beer selection and food. 79 Springside Dr. (Akron) 330-644-1780; 1615 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-467-1002; 5710 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330497-1133 $$$ L, D, A, T Wise Guys Lounge & Grill Located in the former Nick Anthe Restaurant, this spot, owned by Tom Procaccio, features steaks, seafood and pasta dishes. Closed Sun. 1008 N. Main St. (Akron) 330922-3006 $$$$ L, D, A, T Wishing U Well Tea Shop A fine tea establishment featuring Broad Street Brownies samples every day. Closed Sun. and Mon. 15 Broad St. (Akron) 330-634-5911 B, L, D, T Wolf Creek Tavern Housed in the former Loyal Oak Tavern, this restaurant serves craft beer, wine, salads, wraps, burgers, pasta, steaks and homemade pie. Kids menu. Sunday brunch. 3044 Wadsworth Rd. (Norton) 234-571-4531 $$$$ L, D, A, T Yours Truly This award-winning restaurant is family-owned and operated, with an emphasis on customer service and family-friendly dining. Try the burger, chili and breakfast items. 36 S. Main St. (Hudson) 330-650-2900; 3725 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-722-5800 $$ B, L, D, A, T

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

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uncorked

by Rick Rodger

Michael David Winery Freakshow and Petite Petit Two brothers, Michael and David Phillips, represent the fifth generation of family farmers and wine growers in the town of Lodi, Calif. This long legacy was all started by their great great-grandfather and grandmother, Andrew and Lucille Harshner. After the Civil War, they started a homestead on 160 acres planting vegetables and fruits, which included fifteen different wine varietals. During prohibition they would ship their grapes around the country with instructions on how not to make grapes turn into wine.

Needless to say, business was very good for the Lodi growers. Families across the country would buy these grapes and juices to be bottled at home. I guess back in the day if you knew how to follow instructions, you could make some pretty good wine for your meals.

Present day, the Michael David Winery owns 750 acres of premium wine grapes in Lodi and they strive to use an all-natural method of farming. Whether it is their outlandish brands and packing or their quirky personalities, Michael and David are definitely on a stage of their own.

In November 2014, Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate gave a score of 90 points to Michael David’s 2012 Freakshow Cabernet Sauvignon.

“The Freakshow is a major sleeper in the Cabernet Sauvignon category and sporting an incredible label that reminds me of The Beatles’ Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover. This delicious, dense purple-colored wine possesses plenty of crème de cassis, licorice, spice box and cedar notes in a mediumto full-bodied, supple, explosively fruity, fruit-bomb style. Drink this delicious Cabernet over the next five to six years, although I would not be surprised to see it last even longer in 66

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a cold cellar,” says Parker. This wine retails for $19.99.

The Michael David Petite Petit is also a very big, excellent wine made with 85 percent Petite Sirah and 15 percent Petit Verdot. The brothers like to enjoy great wine and this wine will not disappoint you or any of your guests. Just like the imposingly large elephants on the label, Petite Petit is large. The wine is explained by the winery as “a substantial, dense, full-bodied, whopper style of a wine loaded with pure black fruit and vanilla flavors that coat the palate. It reveals remarkable richness with a finish that is slightly dry and seems to linger.” Petite Petit retails for $15.99.

Both wines are available at Acme Fresh Markets, West Point Market, Regency Wines, Buehler’s Food Markets, Papa Joe’s, Giant Eagle, Mustard Seed Market or your favorite wine shop in the Greater Akron Area.

Michael David Winery 4580 West Highway 12 Lodi, California 95242 1-888-707-WINE

Wine Wisdom A wine labeled as a varietal – “Cabernet Sauvignon” as opposed to “Claret,” or “Chardonnay” as opposed to “Vin Blanc” - might not be made entirely of the listed variety. In fact, in the United States a varietal may consist of as little as 75 percent of the variety listed and as much as 25 percent of other varieties. / Rick Rodger is a manager at Heidelberg Distributing Company.

Comments?

Email them to Molly Gase at mgase@bakermediagroup.com.

may 2015

Explore

Medina County Family Ties

Take a Hike

Three local family businesses have stayed put generation after generation

Experience Medina County's Great Outdoors

+ Q&A with Lagerhead's Brewery

Travel to Medina County Just 25 miles from Akron, Medina County is the kind of area that truly has something for everyone. The vast array of festivals, shopping, attractions, historic architecture and eateries make Medina County a special place to visit and live. Some of the area’s attributes that have put Medina County on the nationwide map are: some of the finest, best-preserved Victorian architecture; an internationally famous candle making facility, A. I. Root; and a strong economic base with companies like MTD, Westfield Insurance and RPM’s World Headquarters. But today’s appeal of Medina County is its ability to retain rich traditions and values, and create events around these values, the local history and agricultural base.

Each year Medina County features its annual Fall Foliage Tour with many of the area farms, parks, historical societies and shops participating to provide a superb tour. In the past, this two-day event has featured such stops as a llama farm, dairy and horse farms, Christmas tree farm and historical societies, among others. The drive itself takes visitors through picturesque, rolling hills and rich farmland to provide a panoramic view of the county in all of its fall splendor.

Each of the communities within the county has their own signature events. Valley City, also known as the Frog Jumping Capital of Ohio, boasts its annual Frog Jump Contest. Stop by Wadsworth for the Blue Tip Festival and see one of the longest parades in Ohio and the world’s tallest match. Buzzard Day is March 15th in Hinckley and marks the return of the buzzards for the summer season and they always show up. This unique community festival also features crafts, its famous pancake breakfast and is a fun-packed day for all ages. The Village of Seville has the World’s Largest Yard Sale every June. The Medina County Fair is one of the area’s largest annual attractions with several acres of games, rides, ethnic foods and top entertainment. Brunswick’s Summer Celebration, another community event, captures the spirit of days gone by with excellent eats, handmade country crafts and more. The entire Village of Lodi participates in the annual Sweet Corn Festival, which makes this event truly a community effort.

While visiting Medina County, take in an old-fashioned band concert in Medina’s Historic Public Square on a June or July

2

Medina County

2015

Friday evening, or if it’s chilly weather you prefer, visit the Square for the Medina Ice Festival with ice carving competitions. Tour the historic churches and historical society houses. Or stop in at one of the garden centers to see some the most beautiful flora in the area. Outdoor adventures can feature a hike at the many parks trails. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy some of Ohio’s finest and most scenic championship courses scattered throughout the county. Or bring the family to enjoy enchanting miniature courses for unique and hilariously entertaining fun. This charming county has loads of apple orchards, several lovely garden centers, specialty shops with handmade and Amish furniture and crafts, antique stores, fascinating eating establishments and many monthly festivities.

Other community celebrations include Christmas Around the World and Walk With the Spirits of the Past which capture the spirit of centuries’ past.

Medina County boasts Lodi Station Outlets with a train ride and over 45 outlets. Just across the highway is Buckin’ Ohio Pro Bull Riding on one Saturday a month May through September.

It’s a great family activity.

Castle Noel, the newest attraction, offers holiday window displays from Bloomingdales in New York, toys, photos, the Santa Squeeze (experience what Santa does when he goes down a chimney), Blizzard Vortex, collections of props and costumes from Christmas movies (the Grinch’s 16’ sleigh, Will Ferrell’s “Elf” costume, a sweater worn by Tim Allen and soldiers from the “Santa Claus” movies and so much more. End with a visit from Santa, then slide down the slide from “A Christmas Story.”

Open year round on weekends and daily for Christmas in July week and the holiday season.

With the vast array of activities, events and some of the most beautiful historic architecture in the state, Medina County is well worth the visit.

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)DPLO\ 7LHV Medina County can boast many family-run businesses. These local establishments embody the community spirit of the area, putting a name and face to each business. With a strong sense of tradition and devotion to the communities they serve, three local family businesses have passed on their passion from one

generation to the next. We spoke with family members from Ritzman Pharmacy in Wadsworth, Mapleside Farms in Brunswick and the A.I. Root Company in Medina. Remaining in the area for two, three, even five generations, each story adds to the feeling of community present in Medina County.

0DSOHVLGH )DUPV 1FBSM 3PBE #SVOTXJDL t t NBQMFTJEF DPN Bill Eyssen and his son Billy are farmers. Eyssen’s father was a farmer, as was his father before him. Each generation has worked the land of Mapleside Farms in Brunswick with tender devotion.

The Eyssens farm an apple orchard with about 4,000 trees and 16 varieties of apples. All of the fruit that they grow on their property is sold on their property whether it is a bushel of apples, a gallon of cider or a jar of applebutter. “My grandfather bought the property back in 1927 and he was a fruit grower, but he was also a general farmer. He had cows and pigs and chickens, but he really liked fruit,” says Eyssen.

Bill Eyssen and his 17-year-old son Billy stand next to a portrait of Eyssen's grandparents Elmer and Clara Eyssen – Mapleside Farm's founders.

4

Medina County

Words and photos

by Molly Gase

2015

The second generation, Bill’s father, took the farm and fine-tuned it into the apple orchard it has become.

Bill Eyssen and his son Billy represent the third and fourth generations of fruit growers in the Eyssen family. A choice that was not pushed upon them, but instead was just a natural fit. “I thought I knew [my career path] and made plans to be a business man, but started seeing those guys with shirts and sweaters going to class and I was in my flannel. I said you know what; I don’t really fit in here. I told my dad that if you need me, I would like to come back. He was

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Though the Eyssen family recently sold Mapleside Farms, the Eyssens are still very much involved in the production of the fruit grown there. He says that the transition has allowed him to return to his first love. “I’ve gotten to step back and do more of what I really like, which is growing fruit,” says Eyssen.

Mapleside Farms is not just an apple orchard, but also an entertainment destination for visitors statewide. Throughout the summer and fall, they offer summer concerts on the hill above their orchard, elaborate corn mazes and even zombie paintball games. It’s not all fun and games though. There is still a family working hard everyday to carry forward the tradition started by Bill’s grandfather and continued by his father. “Dad was so proud to see that he had handed [the farm] on after working so hard. Farming is hard, it's long hours and hard work. My goal is to sit back and watch somebody else do that and it could very well be my son.”

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Our staff also includes Adoption Coordinators that work with prospective adoptive families to help them understand the requirements and the broad range of emotions related to adoptions. Building Blocks Adoption also serves as a go-between for birthmothers and adoptive families in order to respect the confidential needs of

adoptive families, keep them informed of their adoption progress as well as the condition of birthmother and baby.

Building Blocks Adoptions Service, Inc. has participated in over 2,500 acts of adoption.

Adoptions include Ohio domestic (newborn and adoption of older children in the foster care system), out-of-state adoptions, grandparent adoptions and stepparent adoptions.

Building Blocks Adoption Service, Inc. provides all necessary private adoption services starting with home study completion and birth parent counseling, through reporting on the bonding and best interests of the child once placed. The work is performed through licensed Social Workers, as well as licensed Adoption Assessors that are located throughout the State of Ohio. Building Blocks Adoption provides adoption services in a Christian environment to all United States citizens. To learn more about our agency and services call today at 866-321ADOPT (2367). Visit our website to request an information packet or sign up for a free informative webinar at www.bbas.org.

5

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The beginning of the Root Candle Company’s story involves a swarm of bees, a savvy worker and a man’s vision for the future. The A.I. Root Candle Company can trace its roots back to 1865. “It was about at the end of the Civil War, when a swarm of bees landed on A.I.’s windows of his manufacturing jewerey story on the town square,” says Brad Root, descendent of A.I. Root and current president of the company. According to Brad Root, one of A.I.’s workers was a beekeeper and realized that the swarm of bees were actually honeybees. He was able to catch the queen bee and offered it to Root. “He got all of the bees into a box and A.I. paid him a dollar – which was a day's wage at that time – for what his wife called a box of bugs.”

)HDWXULQJ 6RQRPD 7LOH IRU 6SULQJ Davinci Floors & Granite 229 S. Court St. Medina, OH 330-764-3232 davinciflooringmedina.com

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Medina County

2015

Photo courtesy of Root Candles.

Brad Root is part of the fifth generation to lead Root Candles.

This “box of bugs” has led to six presidents and five generations of, first beekeepers and now candle makers, culminating in Brad Root. Based in Medina, the company uses nine million pounds of wax each year and produces about 42 different fragrances.

Throughout time the company has had to adapt and evolve. In the 1920s, they were leaving the honey packing of their early days behind. Hearing about a need for quality religious candles from a local Catholic priest during a tennis match, the company began a new line of candles. “By 1930, we started [the religious candle] line and started to develop the sales force for that. The second generation continued beekeeping and got us into religious candles, then the business passed to my grandfather. He got us through the difficult times of the Depression, but continued to grow the business, getting us into decorative candles in the late 1960s,” says Root. Root’s father continued development of the decorative candles and brought the company to its current production facility in Medina.

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While his own legacy is still in the works, the newest leader of the Root family business has developed their markets into the United Kingdom, Europe and South Korea. “It takes a while to develop an export market, but the export markets at present have a little bit larger growth potential than what the U.S. markets are indicating,” says Root.

As the company continues to grow and expand worldwide, Root says that they must be open to change. “That’s the key thing to our business evolving through multiple generations - we’re willing to have the business evolve and change. If we were so set on beekeeping, the company probably would have already gone out of business during the tough times of beekeeping… The world is a very fast-changing place and each year or so it seems that it moves even faster. That’s the change for a business and that’s a change for family.”

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5LW]PDQ 3KDUPDF\ .VMUJQMF MPDBUJPOT XXX SJU[NBOSY DPN The family-run pharmacy may seem like just another piece of nostalgia, but Wadsworthbased Ritzman Pharmacy would beg to differ.

Unlike other parts of the past that have faded into memory, Ritzman Pharmacy is still here and going strong.

Ritzman Pharmacy has been a family-run business since Forrest Ritzman purchased a small 1,300-square-foot pharmacy in Wadsworth in 1950. At that time, he had worked in several pharmacies in the Akron area and had a large, growing family. Jerry Ritzman is one of Forrest’s eight children.

Many of the children walked in their father’s footsteps by entering medical careers, with five of the six boys becoming pharmacists and the two girls registered nurses.

Jerry Ritzman is a pharmacist and the last of the children still involved in the family business. The business currently has three partners, Ritzman, Eric Graf, and Andrew Fligor.

Fligor’s father, Larry, originally worked with Ritzman and his brothers when each of their independent pharmacies were combined in 1985.

While becoming a pharmacist may not be the job that most children dream of, Ritzman says he never thought of anything else. “I don’t think I ever spent a minute thinking about [another career]. Nobody forced it on me,” says Ritzman. On the contrary, he says that his father tried to talk him out of it. In the ‘60s when Jerry graduated from high school, family pharmacies were facing a lot of pressure from large chains. “It was a big threat to the independently owned pharmacies. And I

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remember dad discouraging me from going into pharmacy. He said, I just don’t know what the future of this is going to be and he didn’t dwell on it, but he encouraged me to think about doing something else rather than pharmacy. But I knew everything, so I did what I wanted to do,” chuckled Ritzman.

Ritzman remembers helping around his father’s store as a child, doing many tasks with his siblings. They would sweep up the basement of the mid-1800’s building, sort unsold magazines, package bulk candy for sale and even scoop powdered water softener into jars.

Forrest Ritzman checks inventory in his pharmacy.

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The business has come a long way since then, now having grown to 25 different stores.

Ritzman Pharmacy prides themselves on maintaining a relationship with patients that is reminiscent of the past, while still allowing themselves to evolve with the times. “[My older brothers, Walt, Earl and Bob] knew that in order to continue to stay in business, we needed to provide the type of service that we always did. It’s kind of paradox that in order to keep some things the same, you have to change,” says Ritzman.

Jerry Ritzman in one of Ritzman Pharmacy's 25 current locations.

Photo courtesy of Ritzman Pharmacy.

9

Take a hike!

A Hometown Brew Buckeye Woods Park

Green space is a valuable thing.

When the sun finally emerges in Northeast Ohio, we all love to head outdoors and enjoy the fresh, cleansing warmth. The Medina County Parks provide many gorgeous locations to stretch your legs for a long walk, or stretch out on a blanket and soak up the sun. Learn more about each park at www. medinacountyparks.com.

Just across the bridge from the Schleman Nature Preserve, Buckeye Woods Park is named after a grove of Buckeye trees found along a stream in the preserve. Buckeye Woods features soccer and softball fields, a picnic area and grills. Meet with friends and family to fish in the 3-acre pond, walk the paved paths or just enjoy great outdoors. There are also two playgrounds for children to enjoy at this park.

River Styx Park Not just a part of mythology, the River Styx Park is an over 83-acre park named after the River Styx Valley. The valley, shaped by erosion from a glacier, is a popular travel destination for birds.

Songbirds from Central America nest in the park each year, checking out its mature forests and open fields. The park also features a .75-mile nature trail and a .5-mile paved loop that goes around a 3-acre pond. According to the Medina County Park’s website, May is the best time to view the greatest variety of these amazing songbirds in the park.

Green Leaf Park Originally a gravel pit, this Sharon Center park features grassy slopes and wooded nature trails. The 62-acre facility is located at the corner of Medina Line Road and State Route 162. The park is also home to one of the earliest homes in the county, the Hard family log cabin. Moved to the park by the Sharon Historical Society, visitors to the park can check out the cabin as well as a small herb garden. A fishing pond is also available for park patrons.

Lake Medina

Schleman Nature Preserve Located in Lafayette Township, this nature preserve is a place untouched by development.

Named after the family that donated the land, this piece of nature is a great place to enjoy wildlife and relax undisturbed.

Located in between Route 18 and Granger Road, Lake Medina was originally used as a water supply for the city of Medina. In 2002 an alternative water supply was developed, leaving Lake Medina as a source of enjoyment for visitors. While enjoying this park, patrons can hike, fish, and canoe.

Lagerhead’s Brewery brings unique brews to downtown Medina

by Molly Gase

Looking for a unique local brew to sip on this spring? Matt and Jon Kiene are more than happy to oblige you at their new brewery in downtown Medina.

The owner of Lagerhead’s Smokehouse, Matt Kiene says the expansion to downtown Medina is a necessary one. “We started the restaurant [in 2004] and we put in our brewery in 2010. Since then we’ve essentially just outgrown the brewery space at the restaurant,” says Kiene. The new brewery can be found at 325 West Smith St., just a couple blocks west of the square in Medina.

“We rehabbed the building over the last eight months and we officially opened our doors on Saint Paddy’s day,” says Kiene.

The new location allows the Kiene brothers to increase their capacity and in the last few weeks, they have added more tanks to the brewery. Currently, Lagerhead’s Brewery distributes throughout Northeast Ohio and into Columbus through Heidelberg Distributing Company. The restaurant, located at 2832 Abbeyville Road, is open seven days a week.

What is the origin story of Lagerhead’s?

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Medina County

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Well everything started with my brother Jon and I. We started the restaurant in 2004. What we do out there is a barbeque smokehouse and we both just had a love for craft beers, so we started brewing a little bit. When we put the brewery in we took it to the next level. We have fulltime brewers working for us now; our head brewer is Tom Robbins. We have added on to personnel in the brewery and it’s just been a really wonderful journey.

I was in sales covering about five different states, my brother owned a drywall company, and we both liked smoking different foods and experimenting with different ribs. Really, both of us were wanting to make a career move and do something different. We just kind of took a gamble on it and rehabbed an 1800’s building in York Township. It was a little risky, but it’s paid off and now we have this great opportunity here.

Main Street Medina

Photo courtesy of Lagerhead's Brewery.

When Hollywood chooses your city as the quintessential example of small town America, or when visitors comment that “they feel like they’re walking through a Hallmark movie,” you begin to realize that you have something special. For nearly 200 years, the Square at the heart of Medina, Ohio, has been a shining example of Midwestern values, Victorian-era architecture, independent shops and restaurants, and outstanding events.

Whether it’s enjoying one of the over 50 free special events on the Square each year, or enjoying the best burger in the county, Medina is a hometown get-away for many.

Tell us a little about the new place.

In addition to the production brewery side, we bottle and house [beer] here as well. We also put in a taproom that is open Wednesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. We typically have nine beers on tap as well as our own homemade root beer for the nonalcoholic drinkers.

This will be a nice opportunity for us to offer one-off specialty beers as well. So there is always an interesting reason to pop into the brewery because you probably won’t find these out in the market. One example is the Smokie Robbins Black Lager. That’s a beer that you really won’t find anywhere but here.

What kinds of beers do you offer?

We do ales and lagers. We really try to run the gamut on styles, from a German lager to IPAs to stouts. We try and have a little bit of something for everybody. We’re getting ready to roll out, for the first time this year, our White Water Witte. It’s a Belgian wheat ale, it’s a great summer beer.

We put it out last year in draft to test

Just 20 minutes west of Akron on Route 18, the nineblock Medina historic district has tons of free parking and it seems like there’s always something going on in the Square. No weekend trip to Medina would be complete without a visit to The Medina County Farmers Market on the Square, Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The 75+ vendor market features the best in locally grown produce, flowers, organic meats and cheeses, jams, jellies and fine art, and runs through October 17. After shopping the market, locals usually catch brunch at one of 15 independent diners and restaurants in the district.

Or do some shopping, with choices ranging from handcrafted Amish furniture, upcycled decorator pieces, signature works of art, made-from-scratch dog biscuits, or visit Medina Hardware, which has been in the same building on South Court Street since the early 1870’s.

If vintage goods are your passion, check out the jewelry, hats, hand-bags, and fashion at Jewelry by Jan Lee, or visit Rustic & Refined and Perfectly Charming for outstanding accent pieces for your home.

the market and we got great feedback on it so we’re actually going to package that bottle this year. That will be rolling out in May. Do you have a favorite?

No. I love them all. It just depends what kind of mood I am in.

What do you like about doing business in Medina County?

The local government, through the zoning to the building department, has been really helpful and very positive in bringing new business into town. The customers are great and very loyal. I think it’s just a great place to do business.

If you have a sweet tooth, the Square is the place to be.

Something’s Popping features over 10 flavors of awardwinning, gourmet popcorn made fresh daily, and you can choose from a rotating menu of over 50 flavors of mini cakes at A Cupcake A Day. The Bakery Shoppe daily turns out cinnamon rolls nearly as big as your head, and the vegan granola bars at Cool Beans Café are scrumptious. The Square is also home to Lemonberry Frozen Yogurt, with eight flavors and over 50 toppings from which you can choose. New to the district this May is Chill Artisan Ice Cream, a family venture of three brothers, selling made-on-site gourmet ice cream from locally sourced ingredients.

Local support is at an all-time high.

When you’re not working at your own establishment, what are you doing?

If I’m not at my son’s baseball practice or games, my brother and I have a second passion — golf. I love to golf.

We play at Shale Creek Golf Club quite a bit, but we like to travel all over the place. That’s when and if we have time though.

The brewery recently added more tanks to their new facility.

Photo courtesy of Lagerhead's Brewery.

No trip to Medina would be complete without a visit to Root Candles, just a quarter mile west of the Historic District. Called “The Best Candle in America,” Root offers a dizzying array of colors and scents.

Whether it’s a four-star romantic dinner for two at Thyme2, recapturing childhood holiday memories at Castle Noel (North American’s largest indoor yearround Christmas attraction) or sampling craft brews at Lagerheads on West Smith Road, the scene in Medina truly has a little something for everyone.

For more information and district events, visit www.mainstreetmedina.com 11

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Explore

Medina County Family Ties

Take a Hike

Three local family businesses have stayed put generation after generation

Experience Medina County's Great Outdoors

+ Q&A with Lagerhead's Brewery

Travel to Medina County Just 25 miles from Akron, Medina County is the kind of area that truly has something for everyone. The vast array of festivals, shopping, attractions, historic architecture and eateries make Medina County a special place to visit and live. Some of the area’s attributes that have put Medina County on the nationwide map are: some of the finest, best-preserved Victorian architecture; an internationally famous candle making facility, A. I. Root; and a strong economic base with companies like MTD, Westfield Insurance and RPM’s World Headquarters. But today’s appeal of Medina County is its ability to retain rich traditions and values, and create events around these values, the local history and agricultural base.

Each year Medina County features its annual Fall Foliage Tour with many of the area farms, parks, historical societies and shops participating to provide a superb tour. In the past, this two-day event has featured such stops as a llama farm, dairy and horse farms, Christmas tree farm and historical societies, among others. The drive itself takes visitors through picturesque, rolling hills and rich farmland to provide a panoramic view of the county in all of its fall splendor.

Each of the communities within the county has their own signature events. Valley City, also known as the Frog Jumping Capital of Ohio, boasts its annual Frog Jump Contest. Stop by Wadsworth for the Blue Tip Festival and see one of the longest parades in Ohio and the world’s tallest match. Buzzard Day is March 15th in Hinckley and marks the return of the buzzards for the summer season and they always show up. This unique community festival also features crafts, its famous pancake breakfast and is a fun-packed day for all ages. The Village of Seville has the World’s Largest Yard Sale every June. The Medina County Fair is one of the area’s largest annual attractions with several acres of games, rides, ethnic foods and top entertainment. Brunswick’s Summer Celebration, another community event, captures the spirit of days gone by with excellent eats, handmade country crafts and more. The entire Village of Lodi participates in the annual Sweet Corn Festival, which makes this event truly a community effort.

While visiting Medina County, take in an old-fashioned band concert in Medina’s Historic Public Square on a June or July

2

Medina County

2015

Friday evening, or if it’s chilly weather you prefer, visit the Square for the Medina Ice Festival with ice carving competitions. Tour the historic churches and historical society houses. Or stop in at one of the garden centers to see some the most beautiful flora in the area. Outdoor adventures can feature a hike at the many parks trails. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy some of Ohio’s finest and most scenic championship courses scattered throughout the county. Or bring the family to enjoy enchanting miniature courses for unique and hilariously entertaining fun. This charming county has loads of apple orchards, several lovely garden centers, specialty shops with handmade and Amish furniture and crafts, antique stores, fascinating eating establishments and many monthly festivities.

Other community celebrations include Christmas Around the World and Walk With the Spirits of the Past which capture the spirit of centuries’ past.

Medina County boasts Lodi Station Outlets with a train ride and over 45 outlets. Just across the highway is Buckin’ Ohio Pro Bull Riding on one Saturday a month May through September.

It’s a great family activity.

Castle Noel, the newest attraction, offers holiday window displays from Bloomingdales in New York, toys, photos, the Santa Squeeze (experience what Santa does when he goes down a chimney), Blizzard Vortex, collections of props and costumes from Christmas movies (the Grinch’s 16’ sleigh, Will Ferrell’s “Elf” costume, a sweater worn by Tim Allen and soldiers from the “Santa Claus” movies and so much more. End with a visit from Santa, then slide down the slide from “A Christmas Story.”

Open year round on weekends and daily for Christmas in July week and the holiday season.

With the vast array of activities, events and some of the most beautiful historic architecture in the state, Medina County is well worth the visit.

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)DPLO\ 7LHV Medina County can boast many family-run businesses. These local establishments embody the community spirit of the area, putting a name and face to each business. With a strong sense of tradition and devotion to the communities they serve, three local family businesses have passed on their passion from one

generation to the next. We spoke with family members from Ritzman Pharmacy in Wadsworth, Mapleside Farms in Brunswick and the A.I. Root Company in Medina. Remaining in the area for two, three, even five generations, each story adds to the feeling of community present in Medina County.

0DSOHVLGH )DUPV 1FBSM 3PBE #SVOTXJDL t t NBQMFTJEF DPN Bill Eyssen and his son Billy are farmers. Eyssen’s father was a farmer, as was his father before him. Each generation has worked the land of Mapleside Farms in Brunswick with tender devotion.

The Eyssens farm an apple orchard with about 4,000 trees and 16 varieties of apples. All of the fruit that they grow on their property is sold on their property whether it is a bushel of apples, a gallon of cider or a jar of applebutter. “My grandfather bought the property back in 1927 and he was a fruit grower, but he was also a general farmer. He had cows and pigs and chickens, but he really liked fruit,” says Eyssen.

Bill Eyssen and his 17-year-old son Billy stand next to a portrait of Eyssen's grandparents Elmer and Clara Eyssen – Mapleside Farm's founders.

4

Medina County

Words and photos

by Molly Gase

2015

The second generation, Bill’s father, took the farm and fine-tuned it into the apple orchard it has become.

Bill Eyssen and his son Billy represent the third and fourth generations of fruit growers in the Eyssen family. A choice that was not pushed upon them, but instead was just a natural fit. “I thought I knew [my career path] and made plans to be a business man, but started seeing those guys with shirts and sweaters going to class and I was in my flannel. I said you know what; I don’t really fit in here. I told my dad that if you need me, I would like to come back. He was

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Though the Eyssen family recently sold Mapleside Farms, the Eyssens are still very much involved in the production of the fruit grown there. He says that the transition has allowed him to return to his first love. “I’ve gotten to step back and do more of what I really like, which is growing fruit,” says Eyssen.

Mapleside Farms is not just an apple orchard, but also an entertainment destination for visitors statewide. Throughout the summer and fall, they offer summer concerts on the hill above their orchard, elaborate corn mazes and even zombie paintball games. It’s not all fun and games though. There is still a family working hard everyday to carry forward the tradition started by Bill’s grandfather and continued by his father. “Dad was so proud to see that he had handed [the farm] on after working so hard. Farming is hard, it's long hours and hard work. My goal is to sit back and watch somebody else do that and it could very well be my son.”

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Our staff also includes Adoption Coordinators that work with prospective adoptive families to help them understand the requirements and the broad range of emotions related to adoptions. Building Blocks Adoption also serves as a go-between for birthmothers and adoptive families in order to respect the confidential needs of

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Building Blocks Adoptions Service, Inc. has participated in over 2,500 acts of adoption.

Adoptions include Ohio domestic (newborn and adoption of older children in the foster care system), out-of-state adoptions, grandparent adoptions and stepparent adoptions.

Building Blocks Adoption Service, Inc. provides all necessary private adoption services starting with home study completion and birth parent counseling, through reporting on the bonding and best interests of the child once placed. The work is performed through licensed Social Workers, as well as licensed Adoption Assessors that are located throughout the State of Ohio. Building Blocks Adoption provides adoption services in a Christian environment to all United States citizens. To learn more about our agency and services call today at 866-321ADOPT (2367). Visit our website to request an information packet or sign up for a free informative webinar at www.bbas.org.

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The beginning of the Root Candle Company’s story involves a swarm of bees, a savvy worker and a man’s vision for the future. The A.I. Root Candle Company can trace its roots back to 1865. “It was about at the end of the Civil War, when a swarm of bees landed on A.I.’s windows of his manufacturing jewerey story on the town square,” says Brad Root, descendent of A.I. Root and current president of the company. According to Brad Root, one of A.I.’s workers was a beekeeper and realized that the swarm of bees were actually honeybees. He was able to catch the queen bee and offered it to Root. “He got all of the bees into a box and A.I. paid him a dollar – which was a day's wage at that time – for what his wife called a box of bugs.”

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Medina County

2015

Photo courtesy of Root Candles.

Brad Root is part of the fifth generation to lead Root Candles.

This “box of bugs” has led to six presidents and five generations of, first beekeepers and now candle makers, culminating in Brad Root. Based in Medina, the company uses nine million pounds of wax each year and produces about 42 different fragrances.

Throughout time the company has had to adapt and evolve. In the 1920s, they were leaving the honey packing of their early days behind. Hearing about a need for quality religious candles from a local Catholic priest during a tennis match, the company began a new line of candles. “By 1930, we started [the religious candle] line and started to develop the sales force for that. The second generation continued beekeeping and got us into religious candles, then the business passed to my grandfather. He got us through the difficult times of the Depression, but continued to grow the business, getting us into decorative candles in the late 1960s,” says Root. Root’s father continued development of the decorative candles and brought the company to its current production facility in Medina.

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While his own legacy is still in the works, the newest leader of the Root family business has developed their markets into the United Kingdom, Europe and South Korea. “It takes a while to develop an export market, but the export markets at present have a little bit larger growth potential than what the U.S. markets are indicating,” says Root.

As the company continues to grow and expand worldwide, Root says that they must be open to change. “That’s the key thing to our business evolving through multiple generations - we’re willing to have the business evolve and change. If we were so set on beekeeping, the company probably would have already gone out of business during the tough times of beekeeping… The world is a very fast-changing place and each year or so it seems that it moves even faster. That’s the change for a business and that’s a change for family.”

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5LW]PDQ 3KDUPDF\ .VMUJQMF MPDBUJPOT XXX SJU[NBOSY DPN The family-run pharmacy may seem like just another piece of nostalgia, but Wadsworthbased Ritzman Pharmacy would beg to differ.

Unlike other parts of the past that have faded into memory, Ritzman Pharmacy is still here and going strong.

Ritzman Pharmacy has been a family-run business since Forrest Ritzman purchased a small 1,300-square-foot pharmacy in Wadsworth in 1950. At that time, he had worked in several pharmacies in the Akron area and had a large, growing family. Jerry Ritzman is one of Forrest’s eight children.

Many of the children walked in their father’s footsteps by entering medical careers, with five of the six boys becoming pharmacists and the two girls registered nurses.

Jerry Ritzman is a pharmacist and the last of the children still involved in the family business. The business currently has three partners, Ritzman, Eric Graf, and Andrew Fligor.

Fligor’s father, Larry, originally worked with Ritzman and his brothers when each of their independent pharmacies were combined in 1985.

While becoming a pharmacist may not be the job that most children dream of, Ritzman says he never thought of anything else. “I don’t think I ever spent a minute thinking about [another career]. Nobody forced it on me,” says Ritzman. On the contrary, he says that his father tried to talk him out of it. In the ‘60s when Jerry graduated from high school, family pharmacies were facing a lot of pressure from large chains. “It was a big threat to the independently owned pharmacies. And I

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remember dad discouraging me from going into pharmacy. He said, I just don’t know what the future of this is going to be and he didn’t dwell on it, but he encouraged me to think about doing something else rather than pharmacy. But I knew everything, so I did what I wanted to do,” chuckled Ritzman.

Ritzman remembers helping around his father’s store as a child, doing many tasks with his siblings. They would sweep up the basement of the mid-1800’s building, sort unsold magazines, package bulk candy for sale and even scoop powdered water softener into jars.

Forrest Ritzman checks inventory in his pharmacy.

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The business has come a long way since then, now having grown to 25 different stores.

Ritzman Pharmacy prides themselves on maintaining a relationship with patients that is reminiscent of the past, while still allowing themselves to evolve with the times. “[My older brothers, Walt, Earl and Bob] knew that in order to continue to stay in business, we needed to provide the type of service that we always did. It’s kind of paradox that in order to keep some things the same, you have to change,” says Ritzman.

Jerry Ritzman in one of Ritzman Pharmacy's 25 current locations.

Photo courtesy of Ritzman Pharmacy.

9

Take a hike!

A Hometown Brew Buckeye Woods Park

Green space is a valuable thing.

When the sun finally emerges in Northeast Ohio, we all love to head outdoors and enjoy the fresh, cleansing warmth. The Medina County Parks provide many gorgeous locations to stretch your legs for a long walk, or stretch out on a blanket and soak up the sun. Learn more about each park at www. medinacountyparks.com.

Just across the bridge from the Schleman Nature Preserve, Buckeye Woods Park is named after a grove of Buckeye trees found along a stream in the preserve. Buckeye Woods features soccer and softball fields, a picnic area and grills. Meet with friends and family to fish in the 3-acre pond, walk the paved paths or just enjoy great outdoors. There are also two playgrounds for children to enjoy at this park.

River Styx Park Not just a part of mythology, the River Styx Park is an over 83-acre park named after the River Styx Valley. The valley, shaped by erosion from a glacier, is a popular travel destination for birds.

Songbirds from Central America nest in the park each year, checking out its mature forests and open fields. The park also features a .75-mile nature trail and a .5-mile paved loop that goes around a 3-acre pond. According to the Medina County Park’s website, May is the best time to view the greatest variety of these amazing songbirds in the park.

Green Leaf Park Originally a gravel pit, this Sharon Center park features grassy slopes and wooded nature trails. The 62-acre facility is located at the corner of Medina Line Road and State Route 162. The park is also home to one of the earliest homes in the county, the Hard family log cabin. Moved to the park by the Sharon Historical Society, visitors to the park can check out the cabin as well as a small herb garden. A fishing pond is also available for park patrons.

Lake Medina

Schleman Nature Preserve Located in Lafayette Township, this nature preserve is a place untouched by development.

Named after the family that donated the land, this piece of nature is a great place to enjoy wildlife and relax undisturbed.

Located in between Route 18 and Granger Road, Lake Medina was originally used as a water supply for the city of Medina. In 2002 an alternative water supply was developed, leaving Lake Medina as a source of enjoyment for visitors. While enjoying this park, patrons can hike, fish, and canoe.

Lagerhead’s Brewery brings unique brews to downtown Medina

by Molly Gase

Looking for a unique local brew to sip on this spring? Matt and Jon Kiene are more than happy to oblige you at their new brewery in downtown Medina.

The owner of Lagerhead’s Smokehouse, Matt Kiene says the expansion to downtown Medina is a necessary one. “We started the restaurant [in 2004] and we put in our brewery in 2010. Since then we’ve essentially just outgrown the brewery space at the restaurant,” says Kiene. The new brewery can be found at 325 West Smith St., just a couple blocks west of the square in Medina.

“We rehabbed the building over the last eight months and we officially opened our doors on Saint Paddy’s day,” says Kiene.

The new location allows the Kiene brothers to increase their capacity and in the last few weeks, they have added more tanks to the brewery. Currently, Lagerhead’s Brewery distributes throughout Northeast Ohio and into Columbus through Heidelberg Distributing Company. The restaurant, located at 2832 Abbeyville Road, is open seven days a week.

What is the origin story of Lagerhead’s?

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Before starting the smokehouse, what were you doing? What sparked your interest in opening a smokehouse and later, a brewery?

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Medina County

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Well everything started with my brother Jon and I. We started the restaurant in 2004. What we do out there is a barbeque smokehouse and we both just had a love for craft beers, so we started brewing a little bit. When we put the brewery in we took it to the next level. We have fulltime brewers working for us now; our head brewer is Tom Robbins. We have added on to personnel in the brewery and it’s just been a really wonderful journey.

I was in sales covering about five different states, my brother owned a drywall company, and we both liked smoking different foods and experimenting with different ribs. Really, both of us were wanting to make a career move and do something different. We just kind of took a gamble on it and rehabbed an 1800’s building in York Township. It was a little risky, but it’s paid off and now we have this great opportunity here.

Main Street Medina

Photo courtesy of Lagerhead's Brewery.

When Hollywood chooses your city as the quintessential example of small town America, or when visitors comment that “they feel like they’re walking through a Hallmark movie,” you begin to realize that you have something special. For nearly 200 years, the Square at the heart of Medina, Ohio, has been a shining example of Midwestern values, Victorian-era architecture, independent shops and restaurants, and outstanding events.

Whether it’s enjoying one of the over 50 free special events on the Square each year, or enjoying the best burger in the county, Medina is a hometown get-away for many.

Tell us a little about the new place.

In addition to the production brewery side, we bottle and house [beer] here as well. We also put in a taproom that is open Wednesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. We typically have nine beers on tap as well as our own homemade root beer for the nonalcoholic drinkers.

This will be a nice opportunity for us to offer one-off specialty beers as well. So there is always an interesting reason to pop into the brewery because you probably won’t find these out in the market. One example is the Smokie Robbins Black Lager. That’s a beer that you really won’t find anywhere but here.

What kinds of beers do you offer?

We do ales and lagers. We really try to run the gamut on styles, from a German lager to IPAs to stouts. We try and have a little bit of something for everybody. We’re getting ready to roll out, for the first time this year, our White Water Witte. It’s a Belgian wheat ale, it’s a great summer beer.

We put it out last year in draft to test

Just 20 minutes west of Akron on Route 18, the nineblock Medina historic district has tons of free parking and it seems like there’s always something going on in the Square. No weekend trip to Medina would be complete without a visit to The Medina County Farmers Market on the Square, Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The 75+ vendor market features the best in locally grown produce, flowers, organic meats and cheeses, jams, jellies and fine art, and runs through October 17. After shopping the market, locals usually catch brunch at one of 15 independent diners and restaurants in the district.

Or do some shopping, with choices ranging from handcrafted Amish furniture, upcycled decorator pieces, signature works of art, made-from-scratch dog biscuits, or visit Medina Hardware, which has been in the same building on South Court Street since the early 1870’s.

If vintage goods are your passion, check out the jewelry, hats, hand-bags, and fashion at Jewelry by Jan Lee, or visit Rustic & Refined and Perfectly Charming for outstanding accent pieces for your home.

the market and we got great feedback on it so we’re actually going to package that bottle this year. That will be rolling out in May. Do you have a favorite?

No. I love them all. It just depends what kind of mood I am in.

What do you like about doing business in Medina County?

The local government, through the zoning to the building department, has been really helpful and very positive in bringing new business into town. The customers are great and very loyal. I think it’s just a great place to do business.

If you have a sweet tooth, the Square is the place to be.

Something’s Popping features over 10 flavors of awardwinning, gourmet popcorn made fresh daily, and you can choose from a rotating menu of over 50 flavors of mini cakes at A Cupcake A Day. The Bakery Shoppe daily turns out cinnamon rolls nearly as big as your head, and the vegan granola bars at Cool Beans Café are scrumptious. The Square is also home to Lemonberry Frozen Yogurt, with eight flavors and over 50 toppings from which you can choose. New to the district this May is Chill Artisan Ice Cream, a family venture of three brothers, selling made-on-site gourmet ice cream from locally sourced ingredients.

Local support is at an all-time high.

When you’re not working at your own establishment, what are you doing?

If I’m not at my son’s baseball practice or games, my brother and I have a second passion — golf. I love to golf.

We play at Shale Creek Golf Club quite a bit, but we like to travel all over the place. That’s when and if we have time though.

The brewery recently added more tanks to their new facility.

Photo courtesy of Lagerhead's Brewery.

No trip to Medina would be complete without a visit to Root Candles, just a quarter mile west of the Historic District. Called “The Best Candle in America,” Root offers a dizzying array of colors and scents.

Whether it’s a four-star romantic dinner for two at Thyme2, recapturing childhood holiday memories at Castle Noel (North American’s largest indoor yearround Christmas attraction) or sampling craft brews at Lagerheads on West Smith Road, the scene in Medina truly has a little something for everyone.

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If you come from a la arg ge family as I did, as you grow up, some childrren may need d a little more attention and support.

We see this need so often with families who hav ve few resources and many demands. This can prod ducce a need for more nurturing and affection, and offer er us an opportunity to introduce new experiences. Our community is fortunate to have so many resources where children and families can receive care and help when they need it.

Community organizations such as Child Guidance & Family Solutions are there when they are needed. But they do not come without a price, and it is our obligati tio on – each and all of us – to do our part and supporrt th them m.

Judge Deborah Cook - United States Federal Courrt of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit

Help continue our community’s commitment to care.

Visit growingupcgfs.org or call 330.762.0591.

Support Child Guidance & Family Solutions by attending

growing upAkron Friday, August 14, 2015

Get details at growingupcgfs.org