October 2011

Monster fun with Fred Coladonato

Wine and Cheese, Please

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volume 9 / issue 10

Vinyl is Back

— as Boomers to Millennials make records cool again

+

CAW

OF THE

WILD

3 Signs a Zombie’s from Akron p16 Ode to Garlic p93 What to Know Before You Remodel p78

singles in the city contest p11

Shrinking City: Advantage Akron?

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How Akron can find worth in its vacancy

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october 2011 / vol. 9 / issue 10

paGEs start here

On The Cover / 42 What Goes Around, Comes Around

52

Features

42

Vinyl is back. But how could a format that was virtually dead suddenly become popular again, particularly with Millennials, who weren’t even born during vinyl’s prime?

Calling All Sexy Singles!

We’re accepting nominations for akronlife’s Single in the City contest. Winners will be interviewed, photographed and featured in an upcoming issue! See page 11 for details.

/ What Goes Around, Comes Around /

50

/ Caw of the Wild / Hundreds of crows live in Summit County all year round. Long associated with all that’s creepy, crows may not deserve the “omen of death” label, but it is scary just how smart they are.

52

/ Shrinking City: Advantage Akron? / Akron lost nearly 18,000 people since the 2007 census — and continues to lose people. To be a safe, sustainable, satisfying place to live in the years to come, Akron must find worth in its vacancy.

akronlife

october 2011

pages

93 big bite

10 radar

28 agenda

Departments

8

/ Mail Bonding

9

/ From the Editor

10

/ Radar (Seen + Heard)

12

/ Dating Diary

18

/ Speak Easy Music to My Ears

/ 19 Summit Mall Has It All

27

/ Flash / 56 Choosing a Private School

28

/ Agenda 29 Entertainment listings/ calendar of featured events

Can the evening be salvaged when your date’s teeth don’t fit?

30 The Date Escape

14

/ The Interview Fred Coladonato, truck driver/ part-time monster

16

92

(notable food & drink)

94 Uncorked: entwine wines, a collaboration between Wente Vineyards and Food Network

98

akronlife

/ Good Eats

93 Big Bite: “G” Is for Garlic

/ Subject Matter A 97,000-word novel on ravenous zombies, plus other flesh-eater fun facts

6

Special Sections

october 2011

/ Parting Shot

/ 64 Breast Cancer Awareness Month / 70 Healthy Tips / 71 Home & Garden / 84 The City of Green / 90 Wine and Cheese, Please

mail bonding

>> War Stories We just got a copy of the August akronlife, and the Civil War article, “Time Remembered,” is fantastic. I thought I’d let you know that not only did the reenactment happen in Zoar, but my little Akron restaurant was one of the food vendors. We got the gig by promising to serve Civil War-era recipes, dress in period clothes and cook with Dutch ovens, a fire, etc. — rather than in the electric soup kettles we normally use. We were extremely excited about it!

By the way, there’s no way we should’ve been anything but first in the Best Meal Deal category [Best Of, July 2011]. We’ve got the best food at prices no one can beat!

farmers market, tours, dinners and even a program of sorts where you can buy a share and get all kinds of good foods and treats each month. So thanks for the article, and congratulations to Jackie on her graduation from Kent. She’s a great writer! Love the magazine, too!

Paula Cutillo Bath Township

Correction In The Interview with Jeff Brunty [August 2011], we incorrectly referred to him as an “organic” farmer. His farm has not been certified organic.

Have Akron, Will Travel

>> Verbing Is Disturbing As always, I enjoyed the recent issue of akronlife, particularly the article, “Suit Speak” [August 2011]. The “verbing” that gets under my skin is “dialogue” — as in, “Let’s dialogue about that topic.” Can’t we discuss it, talk about it even? Thank you for bringing this affliction to light.

>> Sustainable Farming I just finished reading the article on Jeff Brunty [“The Interview,” August 2011] and absolutely loved it. I have been learning more and more about the horrors of factory farming and have been trying to become a vegetarian — or at least find more humanely raised meats and eggs — for quite some time. In addition, I teach at Arrowhead Primary in Copley, where the students raised and cared for chickens so, like Jeff, I learned first-hand this year how delicious fresh eggs taste. Imagine my surprise when I discovered his farm is two miles from my house! I can’t wait to go over and meet this amazing young couple and try everything they have to offer at their farm. I also discovered a ton of other things they’re involved with, like the

akronlife

Associate Publisher Colin Baker cbaker@bakermediagroup.com

Creative Director Kathy Baker Moorhouse kmoorhouse@bakermediagroup.com

Editor Georgina K. Carson gcarson@bakermediagroup.com

Assistant Editor Abby Cymerman Contributing Writers Amy Antenora Greathouse Julie Herron Tom Lukes Jackie McLean Jaysen Mercer Charles Parsons Kelly Petryszyn Rick Rodger Rodney Wilson Artistic Director / Production Manager William L. Teckmyer III wteckmyer@bakermediagroup.com

Josh Gippin, Shane Wynn (pregnant with son, Malcolm Gippin) and Amelia Gippin. We enjoyed a Rockwell-esque family vacation with my husband’s family on Chincoteague Island, Va. in early July (home of the famous pony, Misty of Chincoteague, from the children’s book of the same name). We were none too soon to enjoy the unspoiled, quaint little island. According to the Washington Post, “The marshy, earlobe-shaped land mass southwest of Chincoteague Island is home to NASA’s first rocket-launching site. With the retirement of the space shuttles, the spaceport is poised to become a major hub of commercial space flight and a tourist attraction to rival the Florida Space Coast at Cape Canaveral.”

Shane Wynn Akron

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

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

dbakerjr@bakermediagroup.com

acymerman@bakermediagroup.com

Scott Malensek, owner The Stew Pot Kitchen Akron

Beth Winter Wadsworth

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief Don Baker Jr.

october 2011

Photographers Ken Love Shane Wynn swynn@bakermediagroup.com

Sales Colin Baker Ben DiCola Carol Null Tim O’Connell sales@bakermediagroup.com

Circulation jburkhart@bakermediagroup.com

Jessica Burkhart 330-253-0056 ext. 112

October 2011, Volume 9, Issue 10 (ISSN No. 74470 57871) akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 90 S. Maple St., Akron, Ohio 443021629. Copyright 2011 © by Baker Media Group, LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by an addressed envelope and sufficient postage. Baker Media Group, LLC and akronlife accept no responsibility for unsolicited material. Subscription rates: Continental U.S., One year —19.95, Two years —34.95. Call for Alaska, Hawaii or international rates. Single issues available by calling the circulation department. $3.95 each plus $3.50 shipping & handling.

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

from the editor

Dream On >> After meeting with a writer at Barley House, I attempt to speed

walk (as speedy as one can in platform shoes, anyway) down South Main Street toward my car. Lunch went longer than I anticipated so I’m pretty sure my hour has run out. Preoccupied by the potentially lapsed meter, I don’t seem to notice (or find it odd) that I’m wearing a totally heinous forest-green bridesmaid’s dress.

As my windshield comes into view, I can see it’s ticket-free. Yay me!

Before I can say “crisis averted,” someone pokes the back of my arm (like a kid would do to get your attention), and I turn around and see a zombie standing there, smirking. He grumbles what sounds like, “Gotcha!”

Rather than the blinding panic I should’ve felt, I ask exasperatedly, “Gotcha? Do I look dressed for tag?!”

He stares unblinking, hands me a business card and shuffles up onto the sidewalk. “Call that number before 2 to opt out,” he grunts/wheezes as he heads toward Market.

If it’s not one thing it’s another, I think to myself as I lift my floor-length dress a bit to climb into my Scion XB. Once situated comfortably, I have a chance to better examine the card, which is completely black on both sides, save for the phone number listed on one side printed in white.

Footnotes

Random facts, useless tidbits and silly stats behind this issue >> 590 the number of crows in Summit County. Historically feared and maligned, crows’ bad press dates to the 14th-century bubonic plague outbreak, when they scavenged dead bodies in the streets. Read all about this scary smart bird in “Caw of the Wild” on pg. 50.

>> 3 Weeks, Tops the length of time her junior-high crush on Ben Barrie lasted. “I still get the giggles a little bit when I think of him,” says Amy Antenora Greathouse, who reminisces about her slow dance with the 8th-grade hottie in “Music to My Ears” on pg. 18. “I don’t think we danced again after that night. He ended up dating someone in his own grade.”

Better call and get this over with, I think to myself …

>> 370

“Yes?” says the person(?) on the other end.

the running total of cities throughout the world

“Um, hello,” I say. “A zombie told me to call before 2.”

cant population loss. To create a sustainable future,

“Well, yes, you’ve been infected. What’s your decision?”

“Uh … decision?”

“Yes. Decision. Do you want to be a zombie or not?”

“Oh, well, um … no ... thank you. You mean I’ve got a choice?”

“This time you do. Don’t let it happen again.”

— including Akron — that have experienced signifiAkron must find worth in its vacancy, as examined

by Charles Parsons in “Shrinking City: Advantage Akron?” on pg. 52.

>> Down the Chimney how the bat got into Rodney Wilson’s living room. “I

opened the screen door and, after circling the room about 10 times, he left,” says Wilson. “A bunch of

[click ~ dial tone]

people were like, ‘Yeah, that’s happened to me, too.’

That was the dream I had the other night. I blame Michael Bryson.

tennis racquet by his bed.” Which explains a punch

I’d just spent a weekend with an advance copy of Bryson’s first book, “Zombie: A Madness” (see pg. 16). Bryson has seven books planned, each featuring his cast of characters battling a supernatural menace. In the first book, “Sam” is tricked into performing a spell that causes 12 corpses to rise. “Those 12 disciples of death then infect the city,” says Bryson.

Along with my subconscious.

What I can’t explain is that bridesmaid’s dress.

One friend told me that, growing up, he slept with a line in CityWatch, on pg. 10.

>> Too Many to Count the amount of times Fred Coladonato has been

punched by customers. “When people get scared, their natural reaction is to jump back, and their arms fly up,” says the part-time haunted house monster.

“Normally it happens when they realize I’m a real person.” For more with Coladonato, check out “The Interview” on pg. 14.

Georgina K. Carson, Editor gcarson@bakermediagroup.com

www.akronlife.com

9

october 2011 / vol. 9 / issue 10

You’re more likely to be killed by a champagne cork than a poisonous spider.

RaDaR a aDaR seen+heard

city watch

by Rodney Wilson

Akron’s National Hamburger Festival served up a new menu option this year, offering visitors a chance to try the country’s first ever deep-fried cheeseburger. Local

arteries, pointing to decades of what they call “cruel and unusual punishment,” issued the following statement: “Are you [expletive] SERIOUS?!”

“No one that I know of has had to deal with seven players going to the pros, so that gave us quite [a recruiting] task.”

— UA men’s soccer coach Caleb Porter, on the challenges of defending their NCAA championship with only four returning starters and 16 newcomers

Wo rd o n th e Street Text purgatory: The time period one waits for a response to a flirtatious text.

In a sentence: Sam was in text purgatory after sending Kim “drinks later?”

Keating’s Comments: “Texting is the new call back,” says akronlife Word-on-theStreet tester Abigail Keating. “But dating rules still apply — you can’t respond too quickly or you look too available. My boyfriend and I use texting almost exclusively to communicate, and if he hasn’t responded within 10 minutes, it’s text purgatory.”

Rating:

*****

“In our phone-centric, tech-savvy world, this word has staying power,” predicts Keating.

NEED YOUR USELESS KNOWLEDGE 10

akronlife

A single Indiana bat, a species of endangered mammal with an Ohio presence, delayed development of Twinsburg’s former Chrysler Stamping Plant. Dozens of tennis-racquetwielding Ohio homeowners laughed nervously at the news, saying, “What’s this about an ‘endangered’ bat?”

A Ravenna flagpole that has attracted two intoxicated climbers within the past year is the target of city trustees, who are seeking its removal. Other proposals include construction of a custom human-sized squirrel baffle, such as those seen on bird feeders, to deter any future climbers.

Kent State student Miles Hartman, 23, is charged with stealing a bulletproof vest from the Alliance Police Department and impersonating a police officer. Hartman is pleading not guilty to the charges, claiming: “I think I was, like, protesting injustice or something.”

Northeast Ohioans took to social media sites after experiencing slight tremors from the East Coast’s mid-August earthquake.

Californians, upon hearing Ohio residents discussing earthquake survival, issued the following statement: “Are you [expletive] SERIOUS?!”

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

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

Calling All Sexy Singles! :H¶UH DFFHSWLQJ QRPLQDWLRQV IRU DNURQOLIH¶V 6LQJOH LQ WKH &LW\ FRQWHVW Greater Akron is full of guys and gals who are hot both inside and out. And we’re looking for the hottest.

We’re in search of sexy, successful, fun, photogenic singles to feature in an upcoming issue of akronlife, and we need your suggestions by Dec. 5th, 2011!

:H¶UH DFFHSWLQJ VHOI QRPLQDWLRQV DQG VHFRQG SDUW\ QRPLQDWLRQV 3OHDVH NHHS LQ PLQG 7KH SHUVRQ QRPLQDWHG PXVW EH VLQJOH VLQJOH PHDQV QRW H[FOXVLYHO\ GDWLQJ RQH SHUVRQ 1RPLQHHV PXVW OLYH LQ 6XPPLW 6WDUN 0HGLQD RU 3RUWDJH FRXQWLHV DQG EH DW OHDVW \HDUV ROG 7R QRPLQDWH \RXUVHOI RU VRPHRQH \RX NQRZ SOHDVH LQFOXGH )LUVW DQG ODVW QDPH RI 6H[\ 6LQJOH $JH &LW\ RI UHVLGHQFH -RE WLWOH 6H[\ 6LQJOH¶V FHOO SKRQH DQG HPDLO DGGUHVV 7KUHH UHFHQW SKRWRJUDSKV RI WKH 6H[\ 6LQJOH SOHDVH LQFOXGH DW OHDVW RQH IXOO OHQJWK VKRW $ IHZ SDUDJUDSKV DERXW ZK\ WKH SHUVRQ LV D 6H[\ 6LQJOH DQG VKRXOG EH FKRVHQ DV D ZLQQHU 7KH 1RPLQDWRU¶V IXOO QDPH SKRQH QXPEHU DQG HPDLO DGGUHVV LQ FDVH ZH KDYH IROORZ XS TXHVWLRQV ,QFRPSOHWH QRPLQDWLRQV ZLOO EH GLVFDUGHG (PDLO HQWULHV DQG SKRWRV WR HGLWRU#EDNHUPHGLDJURXS FRP 2U VQDLO PDLO WKHP WR DNURQOLIH $WWQ (GLWRUV 6 0DSOH 6W $NURQ 2+ :LQQHUV ZLOO EH LQWHUYLHZHG DQG SKRWRJUDSKHG IRU DQ XSFRPLQJ LVVXH RI DNURQOLIH 1RPLQDWLRQV PXVW EH UHFHLYHG E\ 'HF WK

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dating diary

by Julie Herron and illustration by Chad O’Malley

See Julie Date

/ One woman’s quest to find her so-called soul mate /

>>

Most women I know (myself included) have sort of a “thing” for a man in uniform, whether he’s a mechanic, pilot or policeman.

And we love those yearly calendars of halfdressed firemen. Hubba hubba! (Don’t tell us these guys are models — we don’t want to hear it!)

>> But what do these guys look like

when they’re off the clock and dressed like us civilians? Let’s just say my experience with Policeman “Sam” seriously altered my “man in uniform” fantasy …

I met Sam via email, and we talked on the phone a few weeks before we met.

He was witty and sweet, and entertained me with his tough guy “eye-talian” demeanor. Sam had been divorced for years, had children in their 20s and seemed grounded, sane, normal. He made me laugh. And, he was Italian (see above for pronunciation).

Working around his schedule, which varied from slightly off-kilter to you’ve-gotto-be-kidding-me shifts, we decided to meet one night for a beer. The moment I laid eyes on him, I knew something was wrong. As soon as he opened his mouth and smiled at me while shaking my hand, I figured it out.

Sam was wearing the most ill-fitting dentures I’d ever seen. Not only were they obviously misaligned, but when he opened his mouth to talk or chew, they clicked. His jaw looked like it was almost

12

akronlife

lopsided and needed to be snapped back into place, which would have been bad enough, but hearing the click of his upper and lower plates when he spoke was like nails on a chalkboard. (He must not have been wearing them when we talked on the phone.)

I don’t think it’s possible to talk without my hands.

In addition to Sam’s poorly fitted teeth was his poorly thought-out wardrobe.

Sam was wearing his early 50s like a badge of honor: high-waisted pants, a button-down short-sleeved shirt, slip-on sneakers. So this is what a policeman looks like out of uniform.

Still, I felt a compunction to persevere through the date. He’d driven from the Cleveland suburb where he lived to meet me, so I owed him that much. And I can converse with anyone, really, without much issue. Usually anyway.

I’m a very “animated” conversationalist, and Sam was extremely put off by my communication style. I admit, I talk

october 2011

with my hands. In fact, I don’t think it’s possible to talk without my hands. Sam was so taken aback that he shrank back in his chair, raised his eyebrows and said “Wow” several times during our conversation. He also asked repeatedly, “Do you ever sleep?” and “Do you always talk with your hands?”

Sigh. Apparently those of us who talk with our hands do so because we’re strung out from lack of sleep.

One more beer and another hour or so of attempted conversation, and the date was over. Between his dentures clicking and my hand signaling, we were clearly not compatible communicators. Regardless, I asked him to text me when he got home — since his drive was nearly 40 miles and I wanted to know he made it OK. His text to me when he arrived home read: “You certainly are UNIQUE.” Despite the tone, I sent him an email thanking him for meeting me and for having driven so far south. Sam replied citing the exact mileage between our homes and guesstimating the amount of wear and tear that this kind of regular round trip would

produce on his vehicle, should he come to see me again. He felt that he was much more comfortable dating within his own city limits.

One and done.

Besides ruining (or seriously marring) my uniform fantasy, my date with Sam also left me wondering: Why is talking with my hands such an issue for some men?

Between his dentures clicking and my hand signaling, we were clearly not compatible communicators.

One of my friends suggested this aversion to my, let’s call it “exuberance,” is most likely because they’re used to being around women who agree with them (their mothers) and probably had first wives who were much more … docile.

I know I’m a force to be reckoned with and I scare some men off, but I refuse to change in order to find a partner — nor would I ever expect someone to change for me. I’m also probably too honest, open and trusting — always willing to put it all out there, no matter what. Foolishly.

But that’s just me.

NEXT MONTH: Julie goes out with the quintessential “nerd” — and discovers he’s hauling around more baggage than the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on their American tour. / Writer Julie Herron is an IT professional who spends her spare time biking, running, taking care of her old house, texting her teenagers, meeting up with her girlfriends, making lists, laughing at herself, dating and writing about all of it.

She does not paint her toenails.

Comments?

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

www.akronlife.com

13

the interview

by Jackie McLean and photo by Shane Wynn

Fred Coladonato

/ Truck driver/part-time monster /

>> Akron beware! It’s almost All Hallows’ Eve, and Fred Coladonato’s looking for his next big scare.

“I get to do what a lot of people wish they could do — play an alter-ego,” says Coladonato.

This 53-year-old North Canton native has been scaring the wits out of people for 11 years now, playing The Undertaker at Akron’s Haunted Schoolhouse and Laboratory.

Though he’s well-known for this role, he started out playing a warlock. Three years later, he was cast as The Undertaker because of his distinct deep voice and his ability to interact with the crowd.

Besides giving scares at HSL, Coladonato also works there during the off-season, hiring new monsters, working on sets and promoting the business. You may even see him at Halloween block parties driving around in a 1973 Cadillac hearse, which was retired after 25 years from a funeral home.

While his alter ego is embalming bodies at HSL, his daytime persona works as a truck driver for Davis Printing. “What I haul during the day,” he says, “is entirely different than what I haul at night.”

What makes The Undertaker scary?

FC: There are times I just stand there, and people don’t know if I’m a mannequin or not. I’m also known for being able to stare you down without blinking or smiling.

Sometimes I just scream. I may even say something scary, like they’ll ask if Freddy Krueger’s down there so I’ll start saying, ‘One, two, Freddie’s coming for you, three, four, better lock the door’ — and that will just freak them out.

14

akronlife

october 2011

As a child, did you ever think: When I grow up, I want to be a monster?

FC: Actually, I wanted to be a drummer in a rock band. I played in a rock band in high school and in two other bands later in life. Kiss had a big influence on me. Maybe that’s why I wear makeup at the haunted house. [Laughs] Where do you get inspiration for the part?

FC: I kid around a lot at work and with my friends. I’m the one who pulls pranks, and I can make people laugh, so some of my character is actually based on who I am in real life.

Can the monsters touch people?

FC: No. Our rule to the customers is, ‘Don’t touch the monsters, and the monsters won’t touch you!’ [Laughs] How do you prepare for the big night?

FC: Watching scary movies year round.

I like a lot of the original black-andwhite horror movies like ‘Dracula’ and ‘Frankenstein’ and some of the newer ones like ‘Saw,’ ‘Nightmare on Elm Street’ and ‘Halloween.’ I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of watching those.

Could someone earn a living playing a monster, or do they only get paid in large amounts of small children (to eat later, of course)?

FC: No, this is just seasonal work. And we don’t have our monsters eat small children — they’re less filling.

So what do monsters eat? ___ Neck-tarines ___ Scream cheese ___ Alpha bat soup _X_Other (please explain): FC: We prefer the heartier meals. We do enjoy the boo-burgers, fright fries and fran-

kenfurters, along with our finger foods. No pun intended.

If I could play any monster, it would be …

FC: Frankenstein. I remember the black-andwhite version and for some reason, I was scared and fascinated at the same time.

Have you ever accidentally scared someone?

FC: One time, I came home from the haunted house and still had my makeup and costume on, and I got pulled over by the State Highway Patrol. I don’t know if I really scared him, but he came up to me real cautious. Once he saw me, he asked a bunch of questions. I didn’t get a ticket, and he had a good laugh with it.

What was the most embarrassing Halloween costume you wore as a kid?

FC: When my mother dressed me up as a gypsy. I hated it! To this day, I still talk about it. I always thought for Halloween, the scarier the better.

Is HSL really haunted?

FC: The Laboratory is haunted! I always get an eerie feeling. There are unexplained noises and the feeling of being watched. I was at the lab by myself one night working on scene lights. I left to get more light bulbs and when I came back to the floor I was working on, all the lights were off. I was out of there! The world’s first vertical wind tunnel was actually built in the lab, and they ran experiments on chimpanzees for NASA’s outer space travel.

Could these be our ghosts?

(Editor’s note: HSL once hired professional ghost hunters, and they found a ton of paranormal activity in the lab.)

I’ve scared a person so bad at HSL they … _X_ Peed their pants _X_ Punched me in the face _X_ Thought they were having a heart attack ___ Vomited ___ Other (please explain): What scares you?

FC: Snakes! I just don’t like them! In science class in junior high, we were forced to pick one up and handle it as part of our grade. I refused to do it. I won’t even watch ‘Snakes on a Plane.’ / Writer Jackie McLean is an editorial intern with akronlife. She graduated last month from Kent State University with a bachelor’s in journalism.

Comments?

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

www.akronlife.com

15

subject matter

by Georgina K. Carson

(Un)Dead End

/ A 97,000-word novel on ravenous zombies, plus other flesh-eater fun facts /

>>

“Picture Indiana Jones meets Shaun of the Dead meets Aliens,” says Michael C. Bryson, about his book and labor of love, Zombie: A Madness. “It has humor, but isn’t humorous; it has horror, but isn’t horror.”

>>The lifelong Akronite/full-time car salesman/first-time author calls the genre “action/horror” and has spent “the better part of three years” — working “only at night in my spare time, in between my wife and three kids and job” — writing the 97,000-word novel and creating the book’s artwork.

The villain of the story: an evil mastermind who uses the dead in an effort to take over the globe, forcing the character Sam to try to save humanity after being given another chance at life. You can buy the book at www.zombiehunterpi.com or on Amazon or ebay.

WHY ZOMBIES WOULD INVADE AKRON 1. Military base in Cleveland secretly working on viral weaponry uses Akron for test run 2. LeBron’s large, empty house attracts zombie squatters wanting posh headquarters 3. Rubber fumes mask smell of decomposing flesh 4. Cheap flights into Akron-Canton Airport

ZOMBIE ABOUT TOWN Summer of ’86, zombies invaded Akron, literally — when Akronite J.R. Bookwalter returned home to film his first featurelength effort, “The Dead Next Door.” The movie was financed by director Sam Raimi (“Evil Dead” series, “Spider-Man,” “Darkman”).

3 SIGNS A ZOMBIE IS FROM AKRON 1. He has on an Indians jersey and a Pittsburgh Steelers ball cap.

2. He gets easily distracted by commercials about carpet.

3. He sneezes a lot (hayfever).

Ataxic Neurodegenerative Satiety Deficiency Syndrome (ANSD) noun the infectious medical condition from which zombies suffer, according to Harvard psychiatrist Steven Scholzman.

Said to be the world’s leading authority on the neurobiology of the living dead, Scholzman drafted a fictional medical journal article on the zombie plague, explaining how a zombie’s brain functions and giving a name to the “affliction” once and for all. The article credits five authors: one living, three “deceased” and one “humanoid infected.”

Why zombies? “I guess zombies made sense to me,” says Bryson, a fan of all things sci-fi, in particular, H.P. Lovecraft. “People seem to be morbidly attracted to zombies, and no one minds if a flesh-eating zombie gets blown away.”

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

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october 2011

www.akronlife.com

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speak easy

by Amy Antenora Greathouse

Music to My Ears

/ It was 1987, and I was painfully in love. It’s not easy being 13. /

>>

Many of us have wished for a time machine at some point. I actually got one the other day, by way of my car — my car radio, that is. It was a familiar, old love song called “Amanda,” transporting me back to a faraway place.

>> Suddenly and without warning,

I’m no longer a 30-something motherof-two driving north on 77. I’m a 5-foottall, 13-year-old in acid-washed jeans.

And I’m in L-O-V-E. Big time. Or so I think.

It’s 1987, and I’m in 7th grade. His name is Ben Barrie* — a much more worldly 8th grader with big, brown puppy dog eyes that, as the cliché goes, make me weak in the knees.

I’m slow-dancing with him to “Amanda” at Confetti’s, the teenage “nightclub” (now the Copley Community Center), where all the local kids gather on Friday nights. We’re dancing in that stilted myhands-on-your-shoulders-your-hands-onmy-hips kind of way. It passes for dancing, and you get to touch a person of the opposite sex — and at 13, that’s what it’s all about.

“Amanda,” Boston’s only No. 1 Billboard hit, had been released the year before and had quickly become one of the most overplayed songs at school dances and basement make-out parties in suburbs across America. And for good reason. It was the musical equivalent of Spanish Fly for teenagers.

Hearing the song again brings back every detail from that night. Ben’s skinny frame in his Levi’s jean jacket, the darkened party hall flecked with the glimmer

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of the disco ball, the muddled cocktail of nervous sweat and Polo wafting to and fro as couples swayed in the dark. The whole place was electric, as the boys from Revere tried to get to first base with the girls from Litchfield.

It makes me laugh now, to think how fiercely we believed we knew what love was. We felt it all so deeply — the angst, the desperation and the conviction that Boston’s lead singer, the late Brad Delp, sang about. You just couldn’t hold it in any longer. Your crush had to know how you felt — and had to know now!

Otherwise, you would die. You were sure of it.

And indeed, time was running out. We weren’t just hanging on to the last precious remnants of unrequited love, like Delp sang about. We were also hanging on to the last precious moments of Friday night, before our parents began pulling into the parking lot to pick us up.

Back then, relationships usually had a life cycle akin to a mosquito, and by the end, you found your crush as annoying as one, too. Such is the nature of the fickle, teenage heart.

Now, some 20 years later, I’ve been lucky enough to know what real, “grown-up” love feels like. And I wish the same for my own two kids, when the time comes. october 2011

But first, I’ll be forced to watch my son and daughter in the miserable throes of unrequited teenage “love.” (And I must admit, I’m as uncomfortable and awkward around teenagers today as I was being one, so this could get ugly.)

I’ll do my best to resist the urge to roll my eyes and scoff. I’ll bite my tongue before I say the words every teen dreads hearing: “You’re too young to know what love is!”

Instead, I’ll hand over a bottle of the hubby’s best cologne, dust off that old Boston album and let “Amanda” do the talking.

Kids don’t really listen to their parents anyway, right? But music, now that is powerful stuff. *Name changed to protect me from embarrassment in case I see Ben at the grocery store next week.

/ A rabid music fan and avid tester of new recipes, Amy Antenora Greathouse spends her spare time trying to make her loved ones listen to her new favorite album or eat. Sometimes simultaneously.

Comments?

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

BRING THE BLING

THE STOP FOR BEAUTY MUST-HAVES Beauty trendsetters will find everything they need at Summit Mall, like hair and skin care products from Aveda or makeup, perfume and hair products at Sephora, the largest beauty retailer in the U.S. Bare Escentuals, which opened in the mall this past spring, offers mineral-based makeup and other natural products for cosmetic-savvy shoppers.

Summit Mall is home to one of only 10 Swarovski Crystal boutiques in Ohio. Located in the Dillard’s concourse, Swarovski is the perfect place to find a sparkling fashion accessory or crystal collectible for that special someone — or to add to your own collection. Since 1895, the company has created beautiful precisely-cut lead crystal items that simply dazzle.

AN APPLE A DAY Techies in the family are sure to flock to the Apple Store, which moved in to Summit Mall late last year and is located between Macy’s and Dillard’s. One of only six Apple retail locations in Ohio, the Apple Store at Summit Mall offers the latest MacBooks, iPods and iPads. If you love the gadgets but need a tutorial, the store also hosts workshops taught by knowledgeable Apple staff who are passionate about sharing their expertise with customers.

All of the shopping available at Summit Mall is sure to make you hungry. Sample Asian-inspired fare at P.F. Chang’s or great-tasting Italian at Bravo! Cucina Italiana. If All American is your style, try The Rail, a burger bar featuring handformed hamburgers made from locally-sourced ground beef, veggie burgers, salads and handdipped milkshakes.

If it’s a pick-me-up you need, head to the center court of the mall to get your favorite coffee treat at Starbucks Coffee Company.

WE’VE GOT THE EXCLUSIVE Gourmet gods and goddesses will be excited to know that Summit Mall houses the only Williams-Sonoma in the region. The premier specialty retailer that celebrates food and cooking is a great place to stock up on cutlery, bakeware and glass and barware. With so many wonderful items for the home, it’s also ideal for bridal registries.

SHOP, THEN DROP … FOR A BITE

STRUT YOUR STYLE Regardless of your signature style, you can find wardrobe staples at a variety of new clothing retailers at Summit Mall. The Buckle caters to style-conscious young men and women who like designer jeans and the latest fashion trends.

And it’s the only location in the area, which makes it the place to shop for denim wardrobe staples.

Some new additions to Summit Mall’s line up of fashion-forward apparel retailers include Francesca’s Collections, a boutique that provides women’s clothes, fashion jewelry and handbags; The Limited, a retailer offering fashion for the young, professional woman; and Soma Intimates, which specializes in lingerie but also offers a line of swimwear and active wear for women.

“The many new additions and old favorites at Summit Mall have created a one-stop entertainment spot,” said Huesser. “Our customers have ample opportunities for shopping, relaxing, dining and enjoying family time.”

With so many retailers to choose from, your head may be spinning trying to find just the right gift. If that’s the case, Summit Mall still has you covered. One-size-fits-all American Express Simon Giftcards are available at Simon Guest Services at center court in the mall. Available in any denomination from $20-$500, American Express Simon Giftcards never expire and can be used anywhere American Express cards are accepted, like the many retail stores and restaurants located in Summit Mall.

Regardless of your shopping mission, the many new additions and exclusive retailers at Summit Mall have created a one-stop-shop for your shopping and dining needs.

GET THE SIMON MALL APP

AND FIND US ON facebook.com/SummitMall twitter.com/SummitMall

magazine

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UPCOMING EVENTS •

Oct. 7 - 6-8 p.m.

Girls Night Out

•

Oct. 22-23 - NARI Home Improvement Show

•

Nov. 12 - 11 a.m.

Santa’s Arrival

•

Nov. 19 - Winter Wonderland Holiday Shopping Event

•

Nov. 20 - Pet Photo Night with Santa

•

Nov. 25 - Black Friday Early Bird Shopping; check simon.com for holiday hours.

•

Dec. 4 - Pet Photo Night with Santa

/RRN <RXU %HVW

SKRWRIDFLDOV FKHPLFDO SHHOV ODVHU WKHUDS\ ERWR[ MXYHGHU P YHLQV YDVFXODU VNLQ FDUH SURGXFWV At Akron Skin Center, we strive to provide the highest quality care using the most advanced technology in medical, cosmetic, and laser treatments.

$W $Q\ $JH We specialize in medical and cosmetic dermatology provided in an inviting and comfortable atmosphere.

Our services include treatments for skin cancer, psoriasis, acne and other skin, hair and nail diseases.

James Libecco, MD

www.akronskin.com

3085 West Market Street Suite 102 Akron, Ohio 44333 • 330-836-0201

FLASH 2

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Akron Arts Expo Wine Tasting and Silent Auction The annual Akron Arts Expo Wine Tasting and Silent Auction on the evening of July 22 at Hardesty Park featured more than 150 wines, beers from around the world and 169 participating artists. Four hundred guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres while viewing the one-ofa-kind silent auction items that were donated by local businesses and artists participating in the Akron Arts Expo.

Brittany Schmoekel — the community events coordinator with the Akron Recreation Bureau,

which has organized the event for 32 years — and Kelli Comer co-chaired the event.

Heidelberg Distributing Co. representative and akronlife contributing writer Rick Rodger also helped put together the gala — as he’s done for the past 11 years. The event was sponsored by akronlife and Totally Cooked Catering.

The Akron Arts Expo weekend is one of the City of Akron’s premier events — drawing more than 30,000 patrons each year.

1. Jim and Theresa Rice 2. Rick Vernon, Yvette Davidson and Del Karnuth 3. Dorianne Denard and Joy Oldfield 4. Georjette Thomas and Alan Garren

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Puttin’ On the Ritz The Akron Civic Theatre was transformed into a 1920s-style Speakeasy for its annual benefit, Celebrate the Civic – “Puttin’ On the Ritz” on May 13. The gala included music, food, a casino and “bootleg beverages.”

Guests were greeted by “gangsters and molls,” given “hooch” and entertained throughout the evening by Verb Ballets, Helen Welch and the Jack Schantz Trio. They also arrested their “thug” friends at the Civic Jail and took vintage photos with their companions.

Three hundred participants attended this soiree while supporting the Akron Civic Theatre. A silent and oral auction rounded out the evening and raised funds for the operating budget of this historic theater.

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1. Akron Civic Board President Mark Watkins and his wife, Donna 2. Bob and Martha Peyak 3. Guests have fun at the blackjack tables.

4. Committee member Mary Kay Finn and her husband, Terry

www.akronlife.com

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october 2011 / vol. 9 / issue 10

In Dutch, “vader” means father.

AGENDA the essential social digest

10/8 UNIVERSITY PARK YMCA’ S J ACKO-LANTERN J OG P32

10/6-10/9 THE A KRON FILM+P IXEL FESTIVAL Local and international films, discussion panels, exhibitions of independent video games, parties and events. Former Hole drummer Patty Schemel will showcase her documentary, “Hit So Hard” on 10/7; Q&A to follow with Schemel, director P. David Ebersol and producer Todd Hughes. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Call for show times. $8, individual programs; $28, full-festival passes. First-come, first-serve seating. www.akronfilm.com

10/18 WILLIE NELSON, A KRON CIVIC T HEATRE. $50-$60.

P 37

10/21 AND 10/22 D RACULA … T HE BALLET, C ANTON PALACE T HEATRE. $8-$22. P38

Kurt Cobain, his daughter and Patty Schemel living together in Hollywood 1992; photo by Courtney Love

10/15 4 TH ANNUAL MASSILLON Z OMBIE WALK Kicks off with a performance of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.”

Duncan Plaza, Massillon. 6 p.m. Free. theanandacenter.org

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10/29-4/4 SUPERN ATURAL: LANDSCAPES BY B RUCE C HECEFSKY AND BARRY UNDERWOOD, A KRON ART M USEUM. P40

9/29-10/2 3RD A NNUAL E LLORA’S CAVE ROMANTICON P 29

Saturdays through 10/1 Hudson Farmers’ Market Village Green, Hudson. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Free. www. hudsonfarmersmarket.org Saturdays through 10/8 Massillon Farmers’ Market Massillon Recreation Center parking lot, 505 Erie St. N, Massillon. 8 a.m.-noon. Free. www.massillonparks. com Tuesdays through 10/11 City of Green Farmers’ Market Summa Health System parking lot, 3838 Massillon Rd., Uniontown. 3-7 p.m. Free. 330-8966621 Thursdays through 10/13 Twinsburg Farmers’ Market Creekside Commons, 2695 Creekside Dr., Twinsburg. 3-6:30 p.m. Free. 330-425-7161 Fridays through 10/14 The Market at Lock 3 Lock 3, downtown Akron. 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free. www. downtownakron.com/market Saturdays through 10/15 Alliance Farmers’ Market Alliance Farmers’ Market, corner of E. Main St. and Mechanic Ave., Alliance. 9 a.m.-noon. Free. www. alliancefarmersmarket.com Saturdays through 10/15 Canton Farmers’ Market Cleveland Ave. NW, between 4th and 5th St. NW. 8 -11:30 a.m. Free. www.CantonFarmersMarket.com Saturdays through 10/29 Countryside Farmers’ Market at Howe Meadow 4040 Riverview Rd., Peninsula. 9 a.m.-noon. Free. www.cvcountryside.org Saturdays through 10/29 Haymaker Farmers’ Market Franklin Avenue between College and Summit streets, downtown Kent. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Free. www. haymakermarket.com Through 10/2 Ohio Mart and Stitchery Showcase More than 140 artisans and craftspeople, 300 unique pieces from the Needlework Guild, performances by the Firestone High School Madrigals and Fergie and the Bog Dogs, kids activities and raffle. And don’t forget about the famous gingerbread. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. Thurs.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $2-$8; children 5 and under free with an adult. www.stanhywet.org Through 10/2 3rd Annual Ellora’s Cave Romanticon The premier convention for erotic romance fans and writers. Pole dancing classes, steampunk fashion show, cougar games, writing workshops and performances by Elora’s Cavemen. Ramada Plaza Akron City Centre Hotel, 20 W. Mill St., Akron. 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Sat., and 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun. $275. www. ecromanticon.com

Through 10/9 Faces of Rural America exhibition Historic portraits by photographers Henry Clay Fleming and Belle Johnson. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E., Massillon. Tues.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.5 p.m.; Sun., 2-5 p.m. Closed Mon. Free. www. massillonmuseum.org Through 10/16 The Dorothy and Herbert Vogel Collection: Fifty Works for Ohio The Akron Art Museum has received the Ohio gift of this collection.

The Vogels dedicated their lives to collecting works by more than 170 artists. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.9 p.m. Closed Mon., Tues., and all major holidays. $7 adults; $5 students and seniors; free for members and children 12 and under. www.AkronArtMuseum.org Through 10/23 “Flora” Flowers have proven to be irresistible subjects for painters, sculptors and photographers. This exhibition, drawn entirely from the collection of the Akron Art Museum, surveys different approaches photographers have used to depict the plant world. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron.

Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Mon., Tues. and all major holidays. $5-$7; free for members and children under 12 with adult. $5-$7.

330-376-9185 Through 10/28 Uniquely Rubber Explore the many roles and uses of the Hevea brasiliensis (rubber) plant. Exhibit features mid-19th century to Civil War era items from the extensive collection of Mike Woshner: hard rubber combs, flasks, buttons, matchboxes, inkwells, pens, medical items and jewelry that appear to be made of modern plastic. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, Manor House, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Last admission at 4:30 p.m. $10 adults; $4 students 6-17; free for children 5 and under and members. 330-836-5533 Through 10/28 Plants of Industry This exhibit offers a broader look at the use and influence of flowers, trees and other vegetation in business and commerce.

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, Corbin Conservatory, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Last admission at 4:30 p.m. $10 adults; $4 students 6-17; free for children 5 and under and members.

330-836-5533 Through 10/30 “A Nation Divided: The Heartland Responds” An exhibit of Civil War photography and artifacts relevant to Ohio and neighboring states.

Includes a gallery space devoted to viewing Civil War stereograph images reproduced in digital 3D. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Call for times. $4-$6; free for members and children 12 and under. www.cantonart.org Through 11/3 Nine Asian Artists-Paintings and Calligraphy An exhibition of works by Mitzi Lai, Sharley Chang, Pimei Huang, Chin Tsai Liao, Sibyl Tien, Mina Huang, Manna Huang, Dorina Shan and Ted Yu — Asian artists who reside in Northern Ohio or Taiwan. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Art Gallery, 1361 W. Market St., Akron. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-noon; Sun., 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. 330-836-9327

Through 10/8 “Compression” A solo show of recent paintings and drawings by acclaimed local artist Matthew Kolodziej.

Harris-Stanton Gallery, 2301 W. Market St., Akron. Tues.-Fri., 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; or by appointment.

330-867-7600

Through 11/15 Canalway Questing Go on 22 new adventures in the Ohio & Erie Canalway. Each has its own character, reflecting the personalities of the quest writers and the special features of the quest location.

Quests for all ages and abilities. No GPS unit needed.

Participants only need a pen or pencil, and walking shoes. Find a quest box, collect its unique stamp, sign its logbook and then re-hide it for others. Each quest begins with a short description of trail conditions, a time estimate and the address of the starting point.

Visit www.nps.gov/cuva, keyword “questing.”

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

Through 11/30 48th Annual Fall Hiking Spree Hike at least eight designated Summit County Metro Parks trails Sept. 1-Nov. 30 to receive hiking rewards.

Rewards are free to Summit County residents; outof-county residents pay to receive rewards ($10 for first-year hikers, $5 for veteran hikers). Hiking forms available at summitmetroparks.org, at the Seiberling Nature Realm visitors center (1828 Smith Rd., Akron), the park district’s administrative offices (975 Treaty Line Rd., Akron) and all Acme Fresh Market stores.

330-865-8065 Through 12/31 Nomination deadline for Acts of Courage and Real Heroes Breakfast Each year, the American Red Cross of Summit and Portage counties holds these two events in Portage County to honor local individuals who’ve performed courageous acts to save a life. To submit a nomination for the 2011 calendar year, visit www.summitcounty.redcross.org and click on the “Nominate Your Hero” icon.

Through 8/26/12 “On the Home Front: Civil War Fashions & Domestic Life” This exhibit will focus on the daily life and experiences of the American civilian population during the Civil War through the display of women’s and children’s costumes, supplemented with photographs, decorative arts and women’s magazines. Kent State University Museum, Broadbent Gallery, 515 Hilltop Dr., Kent.

Call for times. $3-$5; free for children under 7, KSU students, staff and faculty, and on Sunday. www.kent.edu/museum 10/1-10/31 Fall Holidays Book Sale Library Shop on Main offers books on fall holidays, holiday crafts and cookbooks all month. Half-price sale on selected books, 10/4-10/6. Sidewalk sale, 10/5, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Buy gently used books and unique gifts to support the library. Volunteer opportunities available. AkronSummit County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron.

Call for times. www.lsom.org 10/1 Celebrating Horizon of Hope & You This event supports breast cancer research and awareness and includes a basket workshop, a 5K Fun Run & Walk and a Best in Pink award. Longaberger Homestead, 5563 Raiders Rd., Frazeysburg. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Free; fees for basket-weaving workshops and lunch. www. longaberger.com 10/1 Nature and History of Furnace Run Celebrate the Metro Parks’ 90th anniversary by hiking the 1-mile Old Mill Trail with naturalist Mike Greene. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield. 10 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/1 2nd Walk and Wag Against Abuse Connect the link between domestic violence and animal abuse.

Proceeds will benefit the Battered Women’s Shelter.

Akron Dog Park, 499 Memorial Pkwy., Akron. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. www.scmcbws.org/2nd_annual_walk_ and_wag.asp

10/1 Do the Mu! A horror movie makeup class for all ages. No reservations needed.

Snack provided. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Noon-2 p.m.

Free. www.massillonmuseum.org

www.akronlife.com

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by Jaysen Mercer

The Date Escape How to keep the romance alive this month …

>> “Let’s go this way,” Jake says, before starting off on a path

into the woods behind Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens. “There’s something I want to show you.”

>> They walk for a few minutes before the rusted metal tubing comes unexpectedly into Alessa’s view. “What in the world?” she wonders aloud, as they take a few more steps up through the wooded trail.

Jake laughs and walks toward her. “Exactly … a tennis court!” he says before mocking a return volley. “I love standing here, looking at the framework of metal tubing and imagining the fence actually surrounding us, a net through the center, and people coming in and out of that door.”

Jake smiles and takes her hand. “Come on,” he says, as he speeds up toward what’s now looking like a grass clearing surrounded by a framework cage.

“Yeah, I can see what you mean,” Alessa replies.

“I like to do that, too. It gets me thinking. It’s almost like I can see the ghosts of the people who were here.”

Alessa crinkles her eyebrows and turns the corners of her mouth upward in a show of befuddled amusement as they step onto the rectangular patch of low-cut grass. She turns to Jake and asks, “So, do you have any idea what this was?”

Jake is right next to her now and puts his arms around her. “And are they laughing or crying?” he asks with a smile.

“I do,” he replies. “Do you?”

“Maybe both,” she replies, before giving him a quick kiss on the lips.

She lets go of his hand and begins to wander the area. “I don’t know …” she says. “It looks familiar to me, but not.” She turns back toward Jake and asks: “Does that make sense?”

“It’s a mystery?” Jake asks.

“Something like that.” Alessa winks before continuing. “Speaking of which, it’s almost seven o’clock. We need to get inside before this ‘Murder in the Mansion’ thing starts with the killing.”

“Yes, it does,” he replies. “The first time I saw this, I felt like I’d seen this kind of thing a hundred times, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it.”

He watches Alessa as she approaches a section of the framework and runs her hand over the metal.

“It’s crazy, but this looks like a door to me,” she says, noticing how rough the rusted poles feel on her fingers.

“That’s not crazy. It is a door,” he says with a smile.

“And those in the center, sticking up all by themselves,” she says, pointing to a set of poles about 40 feet apart. “Those have to be a pair.”

“They are,” Jake replies.

The pieces begin to come together, and Alessa starts to back up toward one side of the cage.

She cracks a smile and catches Jake’s eye before looking up and lifting her hand. “Love, love,” she says with a giggle, before mocking a tennis serve.

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“You’re killin’ me,” Jake says with a laugh, as he takes her hand and heads back toward Stan Hywet.

The Price of Love: • “Murder in the Mansion”: $34 members; $42 non-members Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron Offered Oct. 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 • Wandering the abandoned tennis court: your time Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

/ Jaysen Mercer is a hopeless romantic by night and a hopeful CPA with SS&G by day. His unusual mix of left and right brain activity causes both confusion and more confusion for those around him.

His new book, “Love Raine,” can be purchased at your favorite online retailer.

october 2011

10/1 Hike the Hollow Enjoy a briskly paced autumn hike on the 1.6-mile Spring Hollow Trail with a naturalist. Hampton Hills Metro Park, Main Entrance, 2925 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron. 1 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/1 Nature Trivia From in the Saddle Join naturalist Sarah Putnam for an excursion on your mighty steed while learning about our trails. Participants must bring their own horse and tack. Silver Creek Metro Park, Boathouse, 5171 S. Medina Line Rd., Norton. 2 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065 10/1 Life in the Soil Tunnel through soil along the 1.1-mile Redwing Trail to observe soil layers, plant roots and critters that live beneath your feet with naturalist Sarah Matheny. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 6 p.m. Free. 330-8658065

10/1 Fall Family Outing Fall into autumn fun with free hayrides, bonfires, naturalist activities, live music, apple cider, cookies and more.

A wheelchair-accessible hay wagon is available. Goodyear Heights Metro Park, Main Entrance, 2077 Newton St., Akron. 6-9 p.m. Free. 330-8658065 10/1 “Believe” concert A Chorus for a Cause invites you to this vocal music concert that benefits Special Olympics. Hoover High School auditorium, 525 7th St. NE, North Canton. 7:30 p.m. For ticket prices and information, go to www.achorusforacause.org

10/1 Suuns An all-ages indie concert with Valleys. The Auricle, 601 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton. 8 p.m. $8-$10 (Under 21, $2 surcharge at door.) 330-353-8694 10/1 Quiet Riot A concert with founding member Frankie Banali, veteran bassist Chuck Wright, guitarist Alex Grossi and vocalist Mark Huff. With Typhoid Mary, featuring WONE disc jockey Steve Hammond. The Tangier, 532 W. Market St., Akron. 8:30 p.m. $35-$40. 330-3767171 10/2 Sunday on Seneca Deck Enjoy the music of Northern Cross and a wonderful fire after hiking on your own for the Fall Hiking Spree.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Seneca Deck, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 1-3 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/2 Leaf Identification Hike Join naturalist Sarah Matheny to learn the unique characteristics of different tree species and how to use a simple key to identify leaves.

Registration required. Registered participants receive a mini plant press. For all ages. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 3 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/2 Average White Band This six-piece band took the influences of their R&B heroes and created their own authentic sound. The Tangier, 532 W. Market St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $35-$40.

330-376-7171

10/3 Riverfront Cruise In Specialty cars, music and food. 2310 Second St., Cuyahoga Falls. 5-9 p.m. Free. www.cityofcf.com 10/3 Brian Henke A fingerstyle guitar concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426 10/4 History Discussion Group: “Famous Massillonians and Famous Visitors” This monthly event is moderated by Chris Craft. No reservations. Coffee and sweets available for a donation. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 10 a.m.-noon. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org 10/4 Cinda Williams Chima New York Times bestselling author Cinda Williams Chima comes to Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library for a reception and brief talk to celebrate the release of her new young adult fantasy novel, “The Gray Wolf Throne.” Chima is also known for her Heir Chronicles series. Books will be available for purchase and autographing. StowMunroe Falls Public Library, 3512 Darrow Rd., Stow. 7 p.m. Free. Call 330-688-3295, ext. 4, to register.

10/5 TGIFriday’s Day for Stewart’s Dine at the TGIFriday’s in Green or Stow today, and 10 percent of all pre-tax sales will be donated to Stewart’s Caring Place Cancer Wellness Center. TGIFriday’s, 4300 Lake Rd., Stow, and 1039 Interstate Pkwy., Green. www. stewartscaringplace.org 10/5 Zach: Love in Action Zach Taylor brings his multimedia concert to the Akron Civic stage with special guests The Bright Lights and other local artists and musicians. Taylor’s music has been described as a fusion of folk, pop and soul, and his mantra of “be the change you want to see in the world” has brought many fans to self realization by experiencing the spiritual side of his music. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 7 p.m. $20-$25. 330-253-2488 10/5 Josh Buskirk An instrumental, blues guitar concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. ClevelandMassillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426 10/5 Jorma Kaukonen Kaukonen is a founding member of The Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna, a Grammy nominee, a member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the most in-demand instructor at the Fur Peace Ranch Guitar Camp that he and his wife operate in Southeastern Ohio. The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent. 8 p.m. $25.50-$200. 330-677-5005

10/6-10/30 “Woody Guthrie’s American Song” American troubadour Woody Guthrie gave a passionate voice to the nation during the Great Depression. Five talented actor/musicians sing Woody’s story from New York’s skid row to the ravaged dustbowl to the orchards of California. Actors’ Summit, 103 High St., 6th Floor, Akron. Call for times. $17-$30.

330-374-7568 10/6 Thursday Movies@Main: “Insidious” A family tries to prevent evil spirits from trapping their young son. This scary film stars Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne. Main Library Auditorium, 60 S. High St., Akron.

6:30 p.m. Free. 330-643-9000 10/6 Richard Thompson This critically acclaimed, prolific songwriter received BBC’s Lifetime Achievement Award and was named one of Rolling Stone’s Top 20 Guitarists of All Time for his acoustic and electric virtuosity. The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent. 8 p.m. $34.50. 330-677-5005 www.akronlife.com

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10/7 Collage Techniques with Gretchen Bierbaum This class is based on Gretchen’s new book, “Creating Collage in All Dimensions: Techniques to Alter and Transfer Images.” Well-behaved children are invited to sign up with a parent. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $45-$50. www. peninsulaartacademy.com

10/8 Painting with Nicki Lanzi Learn how to capture favorite scenes from your travels with quick pen-andink sketches and light washes of color in an artist travel book. Work from your favorite travel photos, and keep these small paintings for references or refreshing your travel memories. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $40-$45. 330-657-2248

10/7 Show and Tell Me a Story Join naturalist Sarah Matheny for a special story time with puppets, songs and a craft. Kids 1 and older welcome with their favorite adult. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 10:30 a.m. Free. 330865-8065

10/8 Essential Oils in the Bible Jody Byrne, coowner of Daybreak Lavender Farm, will discuss the myths, mysteries and facts. Daybreak Lavender Farm, 9292 Market Square Dr., Streetsboro. Noon. Free. www.daybreaklavenderfarm.com

10/7 Fall Clam Bake Sarah’s Vineyard and Duet Fine Catered and Prepared Foods present this traditional clambake, featuring New England clam chowder, hot clam broth, Middleneck clams, roasted chicken, corn on the cob, baked sweet potato, creamy cole slaw, housebaked rolls and butter, outrageous chocolate brownies and wine. Sarah’s Vineyard, 1204 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls. 5:30-8:30 p.m. $40 single and $75 couple; tickets must be pre-ordered.

330-929-8057 10/7 Canton First Fri. – Dancin’ in the Moonlight This themed, monthly street party features art exhibits, workshops, poetry slams, kids activities, concerts, restaurant specials and more. Past First Fridays have included giraffes, flash mobs, Budweiser Clydesdales, belly dancing, stilt-walkers, ice sculptors and a fulldress performance of Shakespeare. Downtown Canton Arts District, between Cleveland and Market avenues, and between 6th St. NE and Tuscarawas St. 6-10 p.m.

Free. www.cantonfirstFri.com

10/8 Woodland Wands Explore the magical world of the forest with naturalist Sarah Matheny. Examine trees close-up to find out what magical qualities a tree branch might possess. Participants will choose their own wand to take home. Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park, 5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula. 1 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065 10/8 and 10/30 Hiking Spree Shield Assistance You’ve hiked eight trails to earn this year’s hiking shield, but attaching it to your hiking staff may be harder than completing the hikes. Volunteers will attach it for you at no charge. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 1-4 p.m. 330-865-8065 10/8-11/19 Peninsula’s 3rd Annual Plein Aire Competition exhibit Celebrate the wonder and beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley with an exhibit of works created for this competition. 11/19, Artists’ reception from 5-7 p.m. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula. Free. www.peninsulaartacademy.com

10/7 Firestone Friday: Kathy Johnson Singer/ songwriter Kathy Johnson performs songs around the campfire. Bring chairs and marshmallow sticks. If it rains, program will be moved to the shelter. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

10/8 Extended Hike Join hiking volunteer Pat Patterson to hike five miles on the Deer Run Trail, cutting across Bath Road to the towpath and north to the Buckeye Trail. O’Neil Woods Metro Park, Trail Lot, 2550 Martin Rd., Bath. 9 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/8 Hudson Wedding Walk More than 20 local businesses will come together for one day to help plan your entire wedding: jewelry, gowns, menswear, floral arrangements, invitations, accessories, hair, makeup, nails, skin, cakes, desserts and catering. Also, wedding venues, travel planners and apparel, favors, photographers and more. Downtown Hudson, 10 a.m.5 p.m. Free. weddingsinhudson.com

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10/8 Livingston Taylor From top-40 hits to “I Can Dream of You” and “Boatman” — both recorded by his brother James — Livingston is equally at home with a range of musical genres. The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent. 8 p.m. $26. 330-677-5005 10/8, 10/16, 10/22 and 10/29 Glassblowing Glass artist Bob Pozarski will walk you through the steps to beginning glassblowing during these one-day, five-hour paperweight and beginner’s classes. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula. Call for times. $110; $90 members. 330-657-2248 10/9, 10/16 and 10/23 Woof Walks Enjoy the beauty of Stan Hywet with your favorite pooch. Dogs must be leashed, and owners are expected to pick up after their pets (“doggie bag” provided). All dogs receive a biscuit.

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Last admission at 4:30 p.m. $5 dog; $10 adults; $4 students 6-17; free for children 5 and under and members. 330-836-5533 10/9 American Heart Association Akron Heart Walk A 2-mile non-competitive walk that promotes a healthy lifestyle and raises needed funds for research and education programs. Louis and Freda Stile Athletics Field House, The University of Akron. 11 a.m. registration. www.heartwalk.kintera.org/akronoh 10/9 Kids’ Nature Drawing: Crows & Blackbirds For ages 6-12. Join naturalist and artist Danette Rushboldt for this lesson in nature drawing. Bring a sketchbook and pencil. Registration begins 10/4. Space is limited. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

10/7 Herbie Hancock, “Blue, Gold and Soul” Pianist and composer Herbie Hancock transcends limits and genres. His five-decade career includes an Academy Award for his “Round Midnight” film score and 14 Grammys, including 2008 Album of the Year.

E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 8 p.m. $10-$15.

330-972-7570 10/8 University Park YMCA’s Jack-O-Lantern Jog Race through the historic Glendale Cemetery in downtown Akron, while enjoying a day with the family.

Proceeds from this annual 5K and 1-mile Fun Run benefit Partners With Youth. One Canal Square Plaza, corner of State and Bowery streets, Akron. 7:30 a.m. registration. $20 before 10/6; $25 day of race. www. akronymca.org

10/8 Moonlight Bike Ride Ride the towpath under the light of the Hunter’s Moon, followed by a campfire, during this family-friendly 15-mile bike ride. Bring your own campfire food and chairs. Helmets required. Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park, 5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula. 7 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065

10/8 The Rubber City BeatleFest Experience the anticipation and excitement of Beatles concerts, carefully and skillfully recreated by Ohio tribute bands, local authors and photographers, and memorabilia vendors. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 5:45 p.m. $12-$25.

330-253-2488 10/8 Open Mic Night Sing, read poetry, present stand-up comedy or play acoustic instruments. It’s self-expression within family-friendly content. Register in advance at facebook.com/THE.DALY.PROJECT Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 6-9 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org 10/8 Fall Family Outing Fall into autumn fun with free hayrides, bonfires, naturalist activities, live music, apple cider, cookies and more. A wheelchair-accessible hay wagon is available. Silver Creek Metro Park, Bathhouse, 5000 Hametown Rd., Norton. 6-9 p.m.

Free. 330-865-8065

october 2011

10/9 Autumn Bird Hike New and experienced bird watchers are welcome to join naturalists Sarah Matheny and Meghan Doran and City of Twinsburg naturalist Stanley Stine to view resident and migrating birds, including the fox sparrow and hermit thrush.

Binoculars and bird guides provided. Expect to be out 2-3 hours. Dress for rugged terrain. The Stone House in Liberty Park, 9207 Liberty Rd., Twinsburg. 2 p.m.

Free. 330-865-8065 10/9 LA Phil Live Music director Gustavo Dudamel leads an all-Mendelssohn program, featuring the Hebrides Overture, the “Scottish” Symphony and a Violin Concerto performed by Dutch violinist Janine Jansen. Montrose Movies 12. 4020 Medina Rd., Akron; Hudson Cinema 10, 5339 Darrow Rd., Hudson; Tinseltown USA 290, 4720 Mega St. NW, N. Canton. 5 p.m. $16-$20. www.fathomevents.com 10/9 FolkNite Bring your musical instruments to a casual acoustic open jam with Greg Canda. A computer and projector will be hooked up so everyone can play the same music (and sing the same lyrics). If you have something to share, bring it on a USB drive.

Or, just bring your own food and drinks, and enjoy the jam. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula. 7-10 p.m. Free. www.peninsulaartacademy. com

10/10-10/28 Keep Akron Beautiful Gallery Show Photographers living, working and/or attending universities in Summit, Portage, Stark and Medina Counties share their best shots of urban beautification.

Hazel Tree Interiors, 143 W. Market St., Akron. Tues.Fri., 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and Sat., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. hazeltreeinteriors.com 10/10 Michelle Rhee The career of education reformist Michelle Rhee has been guided by one core principle: Put students first. Rhee has appeared on television shows, radio programs and in the documentary, “Waiting for Superman,” a film analyzing the failure of American public education. Kent State University at Stark’s Timken Great Hall, 6000 Frank Ave. NW, Jackson Township. 6:45 p.m. Free, but tickets are required. www.stark.kent.edu/about/events/ featuredspeakers 10/10 Dr. Maurer’s Genuine Good Time Groove A mountain pop concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m.

Free. 800-436-0426 10/11 Lunch with a Notable Woman: Pat Stropko O’Leary, executive director of Hospice of Medina County Women’s Network offers this lunch series the second Tues. of every month, which includes an informal Q&A session. Weymouth Country Club, 3946 Weymouth Rd., Medina. 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Members $20, non-member $23. Payable at the door. No-shows will be invoiced. RSVP by 10/7 to Kathi Bond, 330466-0973 10/11 Yappy Hours Enjoy a glass of wine with your best friend of the canine variety. Proceeds benefit GivePetsAChance. Enjoy the ambiance, meet other pet lovers and help animals in need. The Winery at Wolf

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Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland Massillon Road, Norton.

5 p.m.-8 p.m. $10 (includes a raffle entry, a glass of wine and goodies for your dog); $5 (for non-drinkers, includes a soda or bottle of water). 800-436-0426 10/12 Heart-Healthy Hike Hiking in the Metro Parks is good for your heart and soul. Naturalist Sarah Matheny will make it good for your mind as well by answering your nature and history questions on this steady 2.4-mile stroll with difficult terrain. Bring your own water and snacks. Cascade Valley Metro Park, Chuckery Area, 837 Cuyahoga St., Akron. 10 a.m. Free.

330-865-8065 10/12 Kinderealm: Chipmunks and Squirrels For ages 3-6. Explore the tricks and treats of chipmunks and squirrels. Includes a short hike and craft. Registration begins 10/6. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Firestone Metro Park, Coventry Oaks Pavilion, 40 Axline Ave., Akron. 1 p.m.

Free. 330-865-8065 10/12 Full Moon Night Hike Enjoy nature at night on the 1.8-mile Deer Run Trail with a naturalist under the full Hunter’s Moon. O’Neil Woods Metro Park, Trail Lot, 2550 Martin Rd., Bath. 7 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/12 Rachel Roberts A folk/rock pop concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426 10/13 Kinderealm: Chipmunks and Squirrels For ages 3-6. Explore the tricks and treats of chipmunks and squirrels. Includes a short hike and craft. Registration begins 10/6. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Area, 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield. 10:30 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065.

10/13, 10/14, 10/20, 10/21, 10/27 and 10/28 Murder in the Mansion F.A. Seiberling has a new rubber formula that’s going to revolutionize the rubber industry, so he’s invited businessmen and acquaintances from all over the country to join him as he presents the new mysterious concoction. Guests have gathered, but it appears there may be more enemies than friends in attendance. Will the secret formula be revealed? Or does some unforeseen event change things forever?

Tickets include one glass of wine or beer and light snacks. Guests must be able to climb stairs and stand for an extended length of time. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 6:45 p.m. $34$42. 330-836-5533 10/13 Joyful Tastes of Life Sample seasonal food from the area’s best restaurants, wine and craft beer tasting, music, silent auction and raffle for a vacation package to The Greenbrier Resort. Event benefits Hospice of Visiting Nurse Service. Todaro’s Party Center, 1820 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron. 6-9 p.m. $50 event ticket; $10 raffle ticket. www.akrongeneral.org 10/13 Humor Hike Join naturalist Mike Greene for nature jokes and riddles as you move at a steady pace along the 1.6-mile Spring Hollow Trail. Hampton Hills Metro Park, Main Entrance, 2925 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron. 6:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 34

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10/13 Thursday Movies@Main: “The Thing from Another World” Arctic researchers discover a frozen alien inside a crashed UFO and thaw it out. Big mistake. Starring Kenneth Tobey and James Arness.

Main Library Auditorium, 60 S. High St., Akron. 6:30 p.m. Free. 330-643-9000 10/13 “Love and Rage: Opera Fireworks by Handel & Vivaldi” A concert by Apollo’s Fire. Fairlawn Lutheran Church, 3415 W. Market St., Fairlawn. 7:30 p.m. $20-$58; free for full-time students under 30. www.apollosfire.org 10/13 Gravestones, Lanterns and Legends Walk by lantern light into the shadows of this 60-acre cemetery.

Age 10 and up due to tour content. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Massillon Cemetery Assoc.

Massillon Cemetery, 1827 S. Erie St., Massillon. 8-9:30 p.m. $15. www.hauntedhistory.net

10/14-10/23 “A Wrinkle in Time” Before Star Wars and Harry Potter, there was this award-winning book by Madeleine L’Engle in which three children travel across space and time to rescue their father from the forces of evil. For ages 8 and up. Magical Theatre Company, 565 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton. Call for show times and ticket prices. 330-848-3708 10/14 Freewheelin’ Friday Join a naturalist to ride the towpath and discover the history and nature of the canalway. Helmets required. Towpath Trail, Botzum Trailhead, 2928 Riverview Rd., Akron. 1 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065 10/14 Honey Extraction Demonstration The honeybees have created a “sticky situation.” Watch as Metro Parks naturalists and Summit County beekeepers extract the honey from our observation and field hives. Learn about the extraction, straining and bottling process. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 1-3 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065 10/14 Family & Friends Connected Military Support Group Support meeting for military families of all branches. 1053 S. Hawkins Ave., Akron. 6-8 p.m.

Free. familyfriendsconnected.com 10/14 Young Birders Join naturalist Pat Rydquist and expert birding volunteers to walk through different habitats to search for owls. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 7 p.m.

Free. 330-865-8065 10/14 Firestone Friday: That Irish Band No blarney here! Enjoy an evening of Irish folk songs and more around the campfire. Bring chairs and marshmallow sticks. If it rains, program will be moved to the shelter.

Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-8658065 10/14 James Keeleghan Called Canada’s finest singer-songwriter, James Keelaghan is an artist who has proven to be a man for all seasons. For almost a quarter of a century, this poet laureate of the folk and roots music world has worked with passion, curiosity and intensity. The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent. 8 p.m. $15.50. 330-677-5005 10/14 Psychic Haunted Tour with Laura Lyn Guests ages 16 and older can pack their flashlights and ghost hunting equipment and investigate the nooks

and crannies of the 1837 Perkins Stone Mansion.

Psychic Laura Lyn will lead the tours and provide insight on the paranormal. Perkins Stone Mansion, 550 Copley Rd., Akron. First tour: 6-7:30 p.m.; second tour: 8-9:30 p.m. $18-$20. 330-535-1120 10/14 Haunted History Walk Listen as your guide, paranormal investigator Sherri Brake, weaves local legends with actual documented paranormal investigations and history. Use ghost-hunting EMF meters as you walk into the shadows of the night.

This walking tour covers about 1.25 miles and is not handicap accessible. Bring cameras, and wear comfortable shoes. Downtown Canal Fulton, 29 N. Canal St., Canal Fulton. 8-9:30 p.m. $15. www. hauntedhistory.net 10/15, 10/16, 10/21-10/23, 10/28-10/30 Boo at the Akron Zoo Everyone’s favorite safe, non-scary event is back. Dress your little ghosts and goblins in their Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat at 12 different themed stations. Treat bags provided must be used while trick-or-treating. All-you-can-eat pizza buffet available for an extra fee. Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron. Call for times. Trick-or-treaters, $10; observers, $6. Call for details. 330-375-2550 10/15 Hike & Breakfast Participants will be asked to contribute to the feast. Registration begins 10/6.

Goodyear Heights Metro Park, Pavilion, 2077 Newton St., Akron. 8 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/15 Scarecrow Day A fabulous afternoon of fall fun, including cool crow information, face painting, marshmallow roasting and a scavenger hunt. You can also build your very own scarecrow! Awards will be given, and the top three scarecrows will be used to decorate the grounds. To participate in the scarecrow

Save the Dates!

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walks !

AKRON: Sunday, October 16, 2011 University of Akron Field House Teri.Incorvia@cancer.org | 888-227-6446, ext. 2224

CANTON: Sunday, October 23, 2011 Canton McKinley High School Maria.Varrati@cancer.org | 888.227.6446, ext. 2223

Visit cancer.org/stridesonline today to sign up and create your personal Web page.

cancer.org/stridesonline www.akronlife.com

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build-off, registration is required; registration begins 10/4. Armature, straw, cloth bag (for the head), markers and twine provided; the clothes and creativity are up to you. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 1-4 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

10/15 Metropolitan Opera – Donizetti’s “Anna Bolena” Live Anna Netrebko opens the Met season with her portrayal of the illfated queen driven insane by her unfaithful king. She sings one of opera’s greatest mad scenes in this Met premiere production by David McVicar. Montrose Movies 12. 4020 Medina Rd., Akron; Hudson Cinema 10, 5339 Darrow Rd., Hudson; Tinseltown USA 290, 4720 Mega St. NW, N. Canton. 12:55 p.m. $18-$24. www.fathomevents.com

Calling all Summit County K-12 Teachers!

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10/15 Akron Symphony Orchestra and Chorus: Opera’s Greatest Moments Dina Kuznetsova and Brian Keith Johnson perform a program of thrilling operatic moments. The Akron Symphony and Symphony Chorus dazzle with operatic hits and heartstoppers, including the “William Tell” Overture and the dramatic storm scene from Verdi’s “Otello.” E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 8 p.m. Call for ticket prices. 330-535-8131 10/15 Widespread Panic After 25 years, Widespread Panic continue to be one of the top touring acts in the country, playing to packed houses and setting attendance records throughout the U.S. This is the band’s only Northern Ohio appearance. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $35. www. akroncivic.com 10/16 American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk – Akron Every dollar raised and every step taken at this event will save lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures and by fighting back against breast cancer. University of Akron Field House, 302 Buchtel Mall, Akron. Registration, 9 a.m.; walk begins, 10 a.m. makingstrides.acsevents.org 10/16, 10/22 or 10/30 Glassblowing with Bob Pozarski Dip molten glass from a furnace and shape it into a paperweight. Blow a bubble and shape it into a tumbler or small vase. Pozarski will walk you through the steps to beginning glassblowing. Pre-register a week in advance. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula. Sat. classes, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun. classes, noon-5 p.m. $90-$110. 330-836-6758 10/16 Nature and History of Cascade Valley Celebrate the park district’s 90th anniversary by hiking the 2.4-mile Chuckery Trail with naturalist Mike Greene. Cascade Valley Metro Park, Chuckery Area, 837 Cuyahoga St., Akron. 1 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

10/16 Puppets on Patrol Help naturalist Pat Rydquist and the Nature Realm puppets earn their hiking spree shield and enjoy hidden treasures along the new Meadow Trail. Munroe Falls Metro Park, Tallmadge Meadows Area, 1088 North Ave., Tallmadge. 1 p.m.

Free. 330-865-8065 10/16 Valley Views Join naturalist Meghan Doran to take in the beauty of the changing seasons. This hike will be a rugged one, so dress for the trail conditions.

Hampton Hills Metro Park, Main Entrance, 2925 Akron-Peninsula Rd., Akron. 3 p.m. Free. 330-8658065 10/16 Michael Haber & Friends The London Times has called Michael Haber “a romantic cellist,” The New York Times spoke of the “lyricism and perfection of his playing,” and The Plain Dealer has called him a “superb musician.” A “meet-the-artist” reception will follow the concert. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 4 p.m. $15-$22. 330-315-3287 10/16 Cooking with Wine with Jim Reynolds Learn how to pair wine with food and how it can add flavor and depth to your favorite dishes. Taste samples featuring seasonal produce and fresh herbs from Dayton Nursery, and go home with a collection of recipes to try in your own kitchen. The Great Room at The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 5:30 p.m. $12 prepaid. 800-436-0426 10/17 Zach An acoustic pop concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton.

7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426 10/18 For Women Only Join naturalist Danette Rushboldt and other women for exercise and companionship on this one-mile hike on Old Mill Trail.

Furnace Run Metro Park, Brushwood Pavilion, 4955 Townsend Rd., Richfield. 10 a.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/18 Hike with the Shooting Stars The Orionid meteor showers are peaking. Hike with a naturalist on this briskly paced evening hike and possibly catch a shooting star while getting hiking spree credit on the 2mile Chippewa Trail. Silver Creek Metro Park, Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Rd., Norton. 7 p.m. Free.

330-865-8065 10/18 Willie Nelson Adored by every generation of music lover, Willie Nelson is an American hero, standing up for what he believes, advocating for the working citizen and gifting us with timeless songs that are part of the soundtrack of our lives. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $50-$60. www.akroncivic.com 10/18 Yuja Wang Chinese-born Yuja Wang is one of the most gifted of today’s pianists. She’s widely recognized for performances that combine the spontaneity and fearless imagination of youth with the discipline and depth of a mature artist. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $22-$40. 330-9727570 10/18 Gillian Welch Welch and guitarist David Rawlings will perform a set of their dark music — a combination of Appalachian music, Bluegrass and Americana. The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent. 8 p.m. $30.50-$33.50. 888-718-4253 10/19 Heart-Healthy Hike Hiking in the Metro Parks is good for your heart and soul. Naturalist Mike Greene will make it good for your mind as well by answering your nature and history questions on this steady stroll along the 1.2-mile Quarry Trail. Deep Lock Quarry Metro Park, 5779 Riverview Rd., Peninsula. 10 a.m.

Free. 330-865-8065 www.akronlife.com

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10/19 Ryann Anderson An acoustic guitar concert.

The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426

boots and bring a flashlight. Liberty Park, Pond Brook Conservation Area, 3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg. 7 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065

10/19 Something Dada Comedy Group Based on audience suggestions, every Something Dada show is completely different. With their eclectic menagerie of improvisational structures, songs, theater games and audience interaction, Something Dada presents an outrageous extravaganza that’s fast, flexible and frighteningly funny. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $12. 330-253-2488

10/21 and 10/28 Haunted Tours Join the staff of the Summit County Historical Society for ghost tours of the Perkins Stone Mansion. Perkins Stone Mansion, 550 Copley Rd., Akron. 6:30 p.m. $12-$15. 330-5351120

10/20 and 10/21 “My Fair Lady” Based on Shaw’s play and Pascal’s movie “Pygmalion,” with book, music and lyrics by Lerner and Loewe, “My Fair Lady” has been called “the perfect musical.” E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St, Akron. 7:30 p.m. Friday; 8 p.m. Saturday. $32.50-$52.50. www.ejthomashall.com 10/20 Kids Club: The Keeper of the Keys For ages 3-5. The head housekeeper had a very important job at Stan Hywet. Let’s explore her long list of chores, meet some of her helpers and see what doors her huge set of keys might open. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. $10-$15.

330-315-3205 10/20 Akron Roundtable: Steve Marks CEO and cofounder of Main Street Gourmet. Quaker Square Inn at University of Akron, 135 S. Broadway, Akron. 11:45 a.m. $20. 330-247-8682 10/20 “Million Dollar Quartet” Party Bus Ohio Regional Music Arts Cultural Outreach invites you to hop on the party bus to Playhouse Square to see this true story of the famed recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time. Enjoy a boxed lunch, flowing wine and trivia quizzes. After the show, hop back on the bus for more wine, homemade chocolates and the 50/50 raffle. Meet at Buehler’s River Styx, 3626 Medina Rd., Medina. 6 p.m. $40-$76. ormaco.org 10/20 Helen Welch: Notes from the Silver Screen If you’re a fan of music and movies, Helen Welch and her trio of musicians will take you on a magical musical journey featuring songs from well-loved films. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $25.

330-253-2488 10/21 and 10/22 Kinderealm: Chipmunks and Squirrels For ages 3-6. Explore the tricks and treats of chipmunks and squirrels. Includes a short hike and craft. Registration begins 10/6. Please make other arrangements for younger children unable to remain in infant seats or strollers. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 10:30 a.m. (Fri. and Sat.) and 1 p.m. (Fri.) Free. 330-865-8065 10/21 Firestone Friday: Family Halloween and Pumpkin Carving Join a naturalist for this family evening of fun at the Tuscarawas Shelter. Bring a safe, sharp knife for pumpkin carving (pre-register to receive a free pumpkin) and your own meal to cook in the fireplace. Then, enjoy a campfire at 7 p.m. with jacko-lanterns adding to the mood, and share your familyfriendly Halloween stories. Registration begins 10/13.

Bring chairs and marshmallow sticks. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 6-8:30 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/21 Adult Night on Buttonbush Trail Leave the little ones at home for this adventure! Join naturalist Sarah Matheny and City of Twinsburg naturalist Stanley Stine to experience nature’s night life along the Buttonbush Trail. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy 38

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10/21 Architectural Justice’s 25th Anniversary-“Product Runway Fashion Show” Students of Virginia Marti College will showcase their architecturally inspired fashion pieces, created with home interior products like glass tiles, granite and wood veneers. Music, wine and hors d’oeuvres.

Proceeds benefit the Medina County Habitat for Humanity. Architectural Justice, 2462 Pearl Rd., Medina. 7-10 p.m. $15 10/21 and 10/22 Dracula … The Ballet Bram Stoker’s classic gothic romance tale is stunningly retold in the medium of ballet. The original score is compiled from many genres — New Age, classical and choral, among others — with eerie sounds and special effects throughout. The Saturday performance will be followed by “Dracula … The After Bite,” a party at Joseph Saxton Gallery of Photography. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N., Canton. 7:30 p.m. $8-$22. www. cantonballet.com 10/21 “25 Hill” Dreams of Soap Box Derby victory fade when Trey Caldwell’s father is killed fighting in Afghanistan. But Trey rebuilds those dreams with the help of reluctant hero/one-time Derby champ Roy (Corbin Bernsen.) Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $5-$10; free for kids 2 and under.

330-253-2488 10/21 New Riders Of The Purple Sage and Commander Cody New Riders original lineup included several members of the Grateful Dead. Commander Cody, a pioneer in incorporating Western swing into its style, is legendary for marathon live shows. The Tangier, 532 W. Market St., Akron. 8:30 p.m. $35-$40.

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10/22 Neuro-Aromatherapy Jody Byrne, co-owner of Daybreak Lavender Farm, presents this workshop that will unlock a simple but powerful “best life” tool for you, your family, your friends and your life.

Daybreak Lavender Farm, 9292 Market Square Dr., Streetsboro. Noon. Free. www. daybreaklavenderfarm.com 10/22 Forest Folklore Explore the forest for fairies, gnomes and other woodland creatures at with naturalist Sarah Matheny. Costumes are encouraged.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Seneca Deck, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/22 Owl Prowl Patience and silence are important as you look and listen for local owls while hiking the 1.1-mile Redwing Trail with naturalist Mike Greene.

During extended stops along the trail, we’ll attempt to call owls using recordings. Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 7 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/22-11/27 Studio M Exhibition Opening: The Digital Artwork of John Branham Meet the artist and view his artwork. No reservations. Refreshments served. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 7-9 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org october 2011

10/22-12/31 Stark County Artists Exhibition Opening Meet many of the participating artists and view their artwork. No reservations. Refreshments served.

Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 7-9 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org 10/22 Junior Brown Junior Brown’s music combines the soul of country and the spirit of rock n’ roll. He invented the “guit-steel,” an instrument that combines the standard 6-string guitar and the steel guitar. The Tangier, 532 W. Market St., Akron. 9 p.m. $30-$40.

330-376-7171 10/23 American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk – Canton Every dollar raised and every step taken at this event will save lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures and by fighting back against breast cancer. McKinley High School, 2323 17th St. NW, Canton. Registration, 9 a.m.; walk begins, 10 a.m. makingstrides.acsevents.org 10/23 Let’s Find Some Furried Treasure Join naturalist Sarah Putnam on a hunt to discover the riches of our mammal friends. Treasure hunters will find the hidden prize using maps and following riddles.

All participants will enjoy their share of the treasure.

Cascade Valley Metro Park, Oxbow Area, 1061 Cuyahoga St., Akron. 2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/23 Nature Realm Book Club Naturalist Sarah Matheny leads this engaging discussion of the Book Club selection, “The Big Year: A Tale of Man, Nature and Fowl Obsession,” by Mark Obmascik. Test your book knowledge against the adapted film. Warm drinks and snacks provided. Book is available for purchase in the gift shop at 10 percent off. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 2 p.m.

Free. 330-865-8065 10/23 The University of Akron Steel Drum Band Performance Founded in 1980 by Dr. Larry Snider, this band is comprised of undergrad and grad percussion students who perform in this group as a degree requirement, along with the percussion ensemble and other musical groups. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 2:30 p.m. $5-$10; free for kids 2 and under. 330-253-2488 10/24 Will Cheshier A singer/songwriter, jazzy guitar concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. ClevelandMassillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426 10/25 Brown Bag Lunch Bring or buy your lunch and discuss the lighter side of radio with Dick Waco.

No reservations. Complimentary coffee and cookies.

Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon.

12:10-12:50 p.m. Free. www.massillonmuseum.org 10/25 Cooking with Amanda Enjoy an evening of food prepared with fresh produce and herbs from Dayton Nursery and paired with your favorite Wolf Creek wines. The Great Room at The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 5:30 p.m. $12 prepaid. 800-436-0426 10/26 Heart-Healthy Hike Hiking in the Metro Parks is good for your heart and soul. Naturalist Mike Greene will make it good for your mind as well by answering your nature and history questions on this steady stroll along the 1.8-mile Deer Run Trail. O’Neil Woods Metro Park, Trail Lot, 2550 Martin Rd., Bath. 10 a.m. Free.

330-865-8065 10/26 Author! Author! Featuring April Smith, author of “White Shotgun,” and Ilene Beckerman, author of “The Smartest Woman I Know.” This lecture series and lunch gives national and local authors the forum

to speak to avid readers in the Akron area. Proceeds support the Alumnae Association’s scholarships. Our Lady of the Elms High School, 1375 W. Exchange St, Akron. 11 a.m. $15-$40. www.TheElms.org 10/26 Trunk or Treat! Venture into the forest with naturalist Sarah Matheny to identify which trees are good treats for you. Costumes are encouraged. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Seneca Deck, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 6 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/26 Jim Gill and Cathy Miller A singer/songwriter and fiddle concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free.

800-436-0426 10/27 Brenda June Cares Prostate Cancer Awareness Fundraiser Brenda June Cares is hosting its first fundraiser dinner and auction. This locally-based organization works to raise awareness for prostate cancer and to make it easy and comfortable for men to receive a screening test. Firestone Country Club, 452 E. Warner Rd., Akron. 6 p.m. $75 per person; $125 per couple. www.brendajunecares.org 10/27 Thursday Movies@Main: “Rio” When Blu, a macaw from a small town, meets a female friend, he takes off on a journey to Rio de Janeiro with this bird of his dreams. This high-flying animated tale includes the voices of Jesse Eisenberg, Anne Hathaway and Wanda Sykes. Main Library Auditorium, 60 S. High St., Akron.

6:30 p.m. Free. 330-643-9000 10/27 Dar Williams The sizable body of work accumulated by celebrated writer/artist Dar Williams is a continuing narrative of her life’s experiences and what she’s observed during her years of intensive touring. The Kent Stage, 175 E. Main St., Kent. 8 p.m. $25.50-$200. 330-677-5005 10/28 Creatures of the Night Join naturalist Mike Greene to explore the 2-mile Chippewa Trail in search of animals that work the night shift. Silver Creek Metro Park, Pheasant Run Area, 5000 Hametown Rd., Akron.

7 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/28 Halloween Bike Ride Come in costume for this family night ride followed by a campfire. Bring your own campfire food and chairs. Helmets and lights required. Towpath Trail, Mustill Store, 248 Ferndale St., Akron. 7 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/28 Firestone Friday: Halloween Hike & Campfire Wear your Halloween costume and enjoy a short night hike across the meadow and into the woods. Who knows what we might find lurking there.

Then, relax around the campfire in the shelter for some haunting Halloween tales. Adults and children welcome. Bring chairs and marshmallow sticks.

Firestone Metro Park, Tuscarawas Meadows Area, 2620 Harrington Rd., Akron. 7-9 p.m. Free. 330-8658065 10/28 Collage 2011 This 90-minute concert will keep you at the edge of your seat as performers appear and disappear throughout the concert hall. Experience the dazzling array of music created by The University of Akron School of Music in one breathtaking event. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 8 p.m. $5-$10; free for UA students with ZipCard. 330-972-7570 10/28 8th Annual Halloween Charity Ball Wear your most creative Halloween costume and vie for prizes. Tickets include drinks and food for the entire evening. This year’s event benefits the Battered Women’s Shelter and a local DECA chapter.

The Tangier, 532 W. Market St., Akron. 8 p.m.midnight. $50 pre-sale; $60 at the door; $100 VIP. Halloweencharityball.org www.akronlife.com

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10/29-2/5 “Landscapes from the Age of Impressionism” A broad survey of landscape painting as practiced by leading French artists from Gustave Courbet to Claude Monet and their most significant American followers including Childe Hassam and John Singer Sargent. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Monday, Tuesday and all major holidays. $5-$7; free for members and children 12 and under. www.akronartmuseum.org 10/29-2/19 Michelle Droll: Landslide – Between a Rock and a Place Kent-area artist Michelle Droll uses paint scraps from her studio, Styrofoam and other recycled man-made materials to construct objects that represent landscape as both a physical and imaginary place. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron.

Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Monday, Tuesday and all major holidays. $5-$7; free for members and children 12 and under. www. akronartmuseum.org 10/29-4/4 SuperNatural: Landscapes by Bruce Checefsky and Barry Underwood Each artist utilizes the effects of atmospheric light and outside light sources to create ephemeral moments in the landscape that give viewers the sense of discovering hidden worlds. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; closed Monday, Tuesday and all major holidays. $5-$7; free for members and children 12 and under. www.akronartmuseum.org 10/29 Metropolitan Opera – Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” Live Mariusz Kwiecien brings his youthful and sensual interpretation of Mozart’s timeless antihero to the Met for the first time, under the direction of Tony Award-winning director Michael Grandage and Music Director James Levine conducting. Montrose Movies 12. 4020 Medina Rd., Akron; Hudson Cinema 10, 5339 Darrow Road, Hudson; Tinseltown USA 290, 4720 Mega St. NW, N. Canton. 12:55 p.m. $18-$24. www.fathomevents.com 10/29 Catch of the Day Cast a line with naturalist Sarah Putnam. Program is for all ages. Participants will learn about the fish in Silver Creek Lake. A limited number of poles available for use during the program.

Live bait provided. Adults need a valid fishing license.

Silver Creek Metro Park, Boathouse, 5171 S. Medina Line Rd., Norton. 1-3 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/29 Nature Myths Join naturalist Meghan Doran for a leisurely walk through the wetlands of Liberty Park to discover the answers to some of nature’s biggest myths. Be prepared for tricks and treats from Mother Nature. Dress for the weather. Liberty Park, Pond Brook Conservation Area, 3973 E. Aurora Rd., Twinsburg. 2 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/29 BluesNite An informal open mike jam for all levels of musicians interested in playing and learning the blues. Bring your equipment (electric and/or acoustic instruments: guitars, harps, bass, etc.) and join in, or sit back, bring your own food and drink or something to share, and enjoy the music. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula. 7:30-10 p.m.

Free. www.peninsulaartacademy.com 10/29 Coyote Capers Join naturalist Pat Rydquist for an indoor evening of coyote information and quiet outdoor adventure in the hopes that coyotes will respond to calling them. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 8 p.m. Free.

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10/29 Masque of the Red Death Halloween Party A macabre masquerade that pays homage to Poe’s classic tale (a wicked good time is promised to all, whether or not your play the optional game). Food; drink; Goth-a-billy, horrorrock band The Cult of the Psychic Fetus; artful macabre portraiture; dancing; a “gypsy trail” featuring tarot and palm readers, crystal readers, a psychic impression painter, a Mayan astrologer and a mystic who can commune with animals and pets (living or dead). Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 8 p.mmidnight. $75 at the door. 330-253-2488.

For details, go to www.reddeathparty.com

10/29 The Tubes Featuring Fee Waybil Ahead of their time, The Tubes’ media savvy and theatrical skills are at the forefront of every performance. Fee Waybill leads the show with band members Roger Steen, Prairie Prince, Rick Anderson and David Medd. The Tangier, 532 W. Market St., Akron. 9 p.m. $35-$45.

330-376-7171 10/30 Scrapbooking: 90 Years of Memories Do you have special memories of your favorite times in the Metro Parks? If so, stop by with your photos, letters and announcements. Save them in our 90th anniversary scrapbook. Scrapbook, pages, scissors, tape and glue provided. You provide the memories.

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Visitors Center, 1828 Smith Rd., Akron. 2-4 p.m. Free. 330-865-8065 10/30 Halloween Spooktacular – Organ Concert with Todd Wilson Come in costume for a familyfriendly Halloween event in the Music Room featuring Stan Hywet’s fabulous Aeolian Organ and the famous silent film, “Phantom of the Opera” with Lon Chaney.

Todd Wilson, house organist, has a fabulous afternoon planned that’s a little spooky, but mostly fun. Before the music, you’ll create a ghostly craft to enjoy during the concert. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. 4 p.m. $4-$22. 330-315-3287 10/30 Drag Bingo Admission includes five games of bingo with 45 chances to win and appetizers, followed by a drag show. Proceeds support programs for individuals who are HIV positive or at risk of HIV and the LGBT Community. Community AIDS Network, 895 N. Main St., Akron. 5-9:30 p.m. $20. www. communityaidsnetwork.org 10/31 Special Halloween Night Paranormal Pizza Party Guests ages 16 and older can pack their flashlights and ghost hunting equipment and come investigate the nooks and crannies of the 1837 Perkins Stone Mansion. Guests are encouraged to dress in costume, but no masks please. Perkins Stone Mansion, 550 Copley Rd., Akron. 6:30-9 p.m. $30-$35. 330535-1120 10/31 Operations A jazz, R&B and soul concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426

November 11/1-11/30 Pre-Holiday Book Sale Library Shop on Main features like-new regift books and more for Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Half-price sale on selected books, 11/1-11/3. First Night Akron info and buttons available mid-month. Akron-Summit County Public Library, 60 S. High St., Akron. Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., 1-4 p.m. www.lsom.org 11/2 Josh Buskirk An instrumental, blues guitar concert. The Winery at Wolf Creek, 2637 S. ClevelandMassillon Rd., Norton. 7-9 p.m. Free. 800-436-0426 11/4 Canton First Fri. – Noteworthy November This themed, monthly street party features art exhibits, workshops, poetry slams, kids activities, concerts, restaurant specials and more. Downtown Canton Arts District, between Cleveland and Market avenues, and between 6th St. NE and Tuscarawas St. 6-10 p.m. Free. www.cantonfirstFri.com 11/4 Anthony Bourdain Bourdain’s television show, “No Reservations,” has been nominated for an Emmy and is currently in its sixth season. On the internationally popular show, Bourdain travels to the farthest reaches of the globe, exploring cuisine and destinations from Laos to New Orleans. State Theatre, 1519 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 8 p.m. $27.50-$57.50. www.playhousesquare.org.

11/5 Metropolitan Opera – Wagner’s “Siegfried” Live In part three of the Ring cycle, Wagner’s cosmic vision focuses on his hero’s early conquests, while director Robert Lepage’s revolutionary stage machine transforms itself from bewitched forest to mountaintop love nest. Montrose Movies 12. 4020 Medina Rd., Akron; Hudson Cinema 10, 5339 Darrow Rd., Hudson; Tinseltown USA 290, 4720 Mega St. NW, N. Canton.

12 p.m. $18-$24. www.fathomevents.com 11/5 David Sterner Quartet Ohio Regional Music Arts Cultural Outreach invites you to see the David Sterner Quartet perform blues, swing, bebop and Latin jazz. Montrose Zion Methodist Church, 565 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Akron. $18. 7 p.m. ormaco.org 11/5 The Easy Street Band with special guests The Rats A Northeast Ohio tradition: part concert (they play for over 4 hours!), part reunion, but mostly it’s a huge party. A special seating arrangement allows room for dancing and enjoying the band up close. The Tangier, 532 W. Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $25-$40.

330-376-7171 11/6, 11/12, 11/13 or 11/27 Glassblowing with Bob Pozarski Dip molten glass from a furnace and shape it into a paperweight. Blow a bubble and shape it into a tumbler or small vase. Pozarski will walk you through the steps to beginning glassblowing. Pre-register a week in advance. Peninsula Art Academy, 1600 W. Mill St., Peninsula. Sat. classes, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun. classes, noon-5 p.m. $90-$110. 330-836-6758

Artisan Market & Craft Fair E. Market Street at Union St. First Congregational Church of Akron 292 292 E. Market Street at Union Street

k

Featuring quality crafts from local artists

Saturday, October 22 9am Ǧ 3pm Free and Open to the Public Ǧ HandicapǦAccessible Ǧ 330 . 253 . 5109

11/6 Firestone Theatre presents “Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr.” Tom, a school teacher nervous about his first day of teaching, tries to relax by watching TV when characters emerge from the set and show him how to win his students over with imagination and songs like “Just A Bill,” “Lolly, Lolly, Lolly” and “Conjunction Junction.” Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 2:30 p.m. $5-$10; free for kids 2 and under. 330-253-2488

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What goes around .....

by Kelly Petryszyn photos by Ken Love

42

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..... comes around Vinyl is back.

With a vengeance.

But how could a format that was virtually dead suddenly become so popular again, particularly with Millennials, who weren’t even born during vinyl’s prime?

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.....

When

Vinyl is history, memories, time gone by and found again.

Louie Zamabataro was 12, he and his brother dug out their father’s record player from the basement and listened to Funkadelic’s “Maggot Brain” over and over and over again.

On the flip side, only 900,000 vinyl albums were shipped in 2006, the lowest amount in the past 10 years, according to RIAA. At that time, it looked like the end was near.

Because the record had been stowed in the basement for so many years, when Zamabataro and his brother played it, it sounded aged.

“Probably in the late ’80s, early ’90s, people were real infatuated with CDs so a lot of them were getting rid of their vinyl,” says George Betovich, owner of Checkered Records in Canton. “Major labels decided, without consulting independent record stores, that they weren’t going to press any more vinyl.”

“You could really hear the dust,” says Zamabataro.

“It wasn’t a perfect recording, and I just thought that was really cool how it sounded old.”

Since then, Zamabataro’s father has replaced his records with a CD player and surround-sound, but the younger Zamabataro hasn’t lost his interest in vinyl. He inherited his father’s collection and started one of his own — now at 100 records and counting. Zamabataro, now 21, still plays the records on the same player his father once used (though he did have to replace the needle).

Zamabataro isn’t alone in his fascination with the once almost-extinct musical medium. Over the past three or four years, younger collectors have been growing in numbers, and older collectors have remained loyal all along. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), shipments of vinyl records have been increasing since 2007, with shipments nearly tripling from 1.3 million records in 2007 to 3.2 million in 2009 — a 41 percent increase.

Betovich says that even though this drought continued for almost a decade, he never stopped buying and selling records — even though he wasn’t selling nearly as many as he does now.

Then something strange happened: Small labels started to release vinyl. Next, some of the major labels got the message and started issuing vinyl again. And now, as Phil Peachock, owner of Spin More Records in Kent, says, “Vinyl is back with a vengeance.”

According to Betovich, one of the reasons vinyl is back is because many Millennials who grew up downloading free music from the Internet are realizing that “compressed” sound can’t compare to the real thing. It also helps that some of those same teens are discovering their parents’ record collections (and classic rock, says Betovich, was recorded to be

“I like knowing that I have something that’s 40 or 50 years old — and it sounds like it’s 40 or 50 years old.”

Louie Zamabataro

Vinyl at Square Records 44

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George Betovich, owner of Checkered Records

played on grooves of a vinyl record — so it just sounds better that way).

To Betovich — who has a collection of 20,000 used albums dating to the 1940s in his store, mostly in the $10 price range — no other format of music sounds better than records. “You can’t capture the warmth on a CD or digital [download].”

Zamabataro agrees, saying he prefers records because he appreciates the “aged” sound. One of his favorite vinyl albums is a ’70s Bob Dylan record from his father. Zamabataro has the reissued vinyl, but it

.....

Through

just doesn’t sound the same.

The ’70s version “transports you to another time,” says Zamabataro. “I like knowing that I have something that’s 40 or 50 years old — and it sounds like it’s 40 or 50 years old.”

Jenn Kidd, 32, also collects because she likes the sound and the history. Drawn to everything vintage, Kidd says that vintage cameras, furniture and books fill her house (along with the sounds of records). During a trip to the record store, Kidd might leaf through 500 or so records, even if she leaves with only two (usually something from the ’50s, ’60s or ’70s). For

Kidd, playing records is solace away from the technology and information overload constantly surrounding her.

“When I’m alone and want to be away from [it all], I put something on and turn everything else off,” she says.

For many like Kidd, records give them a break from the daily stress — in part, because listening to music on vinyl is a ritual: picking the right album, putting the needle on the record, flipping the record. This physical listening experience stands in stark contrast to the digital one.

Dave Ignizio, owner of Square Records

all the drastic musical format changes — from cassettes to CDs to MP3s — records have endured. Peachock (owner of Spin More Records) says the reason for their survival is simple: It’s “because they’re cool.”

Standing in the back of his store surrounded by music memorabilia (an Elvis carpet lies on the floor, music posters cover the walls and ceiling, and bins upon bins of records are stacked everywhere), Peachock attempts to substantiate his “cool” theory by gesturing to a young couple near the window.

They’re browsing through records and haven’t touched the CDs next to them.

“I think people are starting to realize that there’s some substance to it,” he says. “There’s [the cover art], the back is usually full of information and it’s a warm item.”

Over at Square Records in Akron, owner Dave Ignizio sells every-

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“Major labels decided, without consulting independent record stores, that they weren’t going to press any more vinyl.”

Top 10 Most Valuable Records #10 “I Can’t Believe” (1953) The Hornets Value: $25,000 Why: It’s a rare, 78-rpm, double-sided doo-wop (the first rock ‘n’ roll records to become valuable as collectibles).

#9 “God Save the Queen” (1977) Sex Pistols Value: $25,000 Why: During the one week the Sex Pistols were signed to A&M Records, this 45-rpm, 7-inch single was recorded and released. Only a dozen or so are known to be in existence, with the original mailer covers intact.

#8 “Stay Away, Joe” (1967) Elvis Presley Value: $25,000 Why: This single-sided promotional record was made to only play once on the radio.

#7 “The Velvet Underground and Nico” (1966) Velvet Underground and Nico Value: $25,000 Why: The original Norman Dolph test pressing contains unreleased recorded material from the Sceptor Studios sessions, featuring different versions of the final release in a different order. Former owner, Warren Hill, bought the record at a NYC flea market in 2002 for 75 cents, later selling it for 25 grand.

#6 “Do I Love You” (1965) Frank Wilson Value: $30,000 Why: Only two copies of the unreleased 1965 7-inch single remain. Motown bigwig Berry Gordy had all other copies destroyed after Wilson moved into songwriting and producing.

Phil Peachock, owner of Spin More Records 46

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thing from modern, independent labels to ’60s jazz records and says he sees customers from young adults into classic rock to people in their 50s and 60s who’ve been collecting their entire life. When asked about the appeal of records, Ignizio explains that records have something that CDs don’t: history, the most extensive one of any musical format.

And let’s not forget the cover art.

He explains how the artistic covers of records, enhanced by their larger size, easily outshine the small CD inserts. In fact, he says he often gets customers who buy cheap records just for the cover. The store also sells journals decorated with record covers, record coasters and unplayable records that have been melted into bowls by his wife and co-owner, Juniper. Also a collector himself, Ignizio can be found scoping out other records stores in his spare time in order to add to his collection.

For many, part of the appeal of collecting is the physical experience of going to record stores — rather than ordering online. “You never know exactly what you’re going to find,” says Zamabataro. “So if you find something that you’ve been looking for that’s really interesting, that you’ve wanted for a really long time, it’s like, ‘Look what I found!’ ” (His roommate also collects so when they go together, it’s a race to see who can find the most prized vinyls.)

#5 “Original Stack O’Lee Blues” (1927) Long Cleve Reed & Little Harvey Hull Value: $30,000 Why: Only one copy exists, discovered and still owned by Joe Bussard of Frederick, Maryland.

#4 “The Freewheeling” (1963) Bob Dylan Value: $40,000 Why: It contains four tracks that were deleted from its final release. A number of these original copies were accidentally released into circulation with restamped labels. Today, mono copies sell in the high $10,000s, while the two existing stereo copies fetch upward of $40,000.

#3 “Yesterday and Today” (1966) The Beatles Value: $45,000-$85,000 Why: After retailers freaked out, Capitol Records replaced these album covers with a more wholesome photo of The Beatles. The group originally posed smiling in butcher aprons while holding dismantled baby dolls and raw meat. Capitol Records President Alan Livingston stowed away a box of 24 sealed “Butcher” albums in his home, which were discovered some 20 years later by his son.

#2 “That’ll Be The Day/In Spite of All The Danger” (1958) The Quarrymen Value: $180,000 Why: The one existing copy of this 78-rpm album — which featured the first-ever recording by the quintet who would launch The Beatles — is owned

by Paul McCartney.

#1 “Double Fantasy” (1980) John Lennon/Yoko Ono Value: $525,000 Why: John Lennon signed this particular album just hours before he was murdered.

Sources: MusicStack.com, Record Collector magazine, eBay and Popsike

Vinyl is an experience — the cracks, the pops, the hisses. It’s a way of discovering something just as it was. www.akronlife.com

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Caw of the Wild Hundreds of crows live in Summit County all year round. Long associated with all that’s creepy, crows may not deserve the “omen of death” label, but it is scary just how smart they are.

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by Jackie McLean

I

t happened at dusk, on a cold winter’s day.

The sky went black. Piercing screams grew louder and louder, as a murder of crows, soaring high above the sky like a moving black cloud, flew to their roost in the woods behind the Akron Zoo. There were hundreds of them.

“It was deafening,” says Debra Swank, an education specialist at the zoo who has a bachelor’s degree in zoology from Ohio State University.

Though the 33-year-old was more fascinated than frightened (she works with crows for a living), a scene like this would cause most of us to run screaming for cover. (Does Alfred Hitchcock’s “The Birds” mean anything to you?)

Michael Myers mask from “Halloween.” Once the crows were tagged and released, the men went back out a week later, wearing the same masks. Not only did they attract the initial seven crows, but the scientists learned that crows can actually hold a grudge because, within minutes, a flock of angry crows were dive-bombing them. The initial seven crows had communicated with their flock that these men were a threat.

And the crows weren’t just telling each other to “get the guy with the mask.” The test was repeated with multiple people wearing multiple masks, and without fail, the crows only went crazy on the mask that’d been worn when they were captured. (Researchers believe the ability to recognize humans is an extension of the crow’s ability to recognize each other, helping them to warn one other about potential predators.)

Associating crows with “creepy” has been kind of ingrained in us.

Crows roost in huge numbers (in the thousands) to protect themAll sorts of myths and superstitions surround this enigmatic creaselves and use at least 250 different calls, including a distress call ture, most often depicted as representing that brings other crows to their aid, since bad luck, revenge or death. (It has been said crows will defend unrelated crows. (This Why a “Murder” of Crows? that if you see a crow caw, death is near, and same type of communication happens when that a group of crows will fly around in a circle right above an area where an animal or a person is about to die.) Adding to the creepy, crows have long been associated with battlefields, execution sites and cemeteries — where they’d be seen scavenging on human carcasses.

According to the American Society of Crows and Ravens, the term, “murder of crows” is derived from a folktale in which crows formed a tribunal in order to punish other members of their flock for bad behavior. If found guilty, the crow would be murdered by the rest of the flock.

According to Greek mythology, Apollo owned a snow-white crow that he charged with watching over his wife, Coronis.

When the crow discovered that Apollo’s wife had fallen in love with another man and told Apollo the news, Apollo turned the crow’s feathers black in an act of rage. Ever since, so the story goes, crows have been creatures of the night, representing the spirit of revenge and bringing back those who’ve been wronged, much like the story of Brandon Lee’s character in “The Crow.”

“One of the reasons why [crow superstitions are] so common in pop culture is because crows are kind of mystical in some way,” says Swank. “People sort of associate a magical quality to them.”

Magical or not, they are intelligent. They’re one of the smartest animals on the planet and, according to Swank, can learn to mimic the human voice, just like parrots. (And she should know; she worked with a crow several years ago that couldn’t keep its mouth shut during her animal show. He would say things like, “Hello” and “My name is Pete,” even when he wasn’t supposed to be talking!)

Less amusing and more terrifying, crows can recognize you. Swank remembers a research study in Seattle where a group of scientists captured seven crows while wearing something similar to the

you see a murder of crows feeding on a dead animal carcass.) Scientists debate whether or not crows actually have what we consider a language, yet those same scientists readily acknowledge that crows have regional dialects.

Though the number of crows has taken a big hit in recent years — the West Nile Virus has killed 45 percent of American crows since 1999 — they’ve begun to rebound. And they’re not just a fair-weather bird; you can find them all year round in Akron, especially in the city. (Living near a lot of people is like an all-you-can-eat buffet for crows, since they’re both predators and scavengers and will eat practically anything — from road kill to McDonald’s French fries.)

Whether it’s a hot, humid day in July or a spooky October evening, “a crow’s not a bird you have to go looking for,” says Swank. “All you have to do is open your eyes, and they’re there.” / Writer Jackie McLean recently graduated from Kent State University with a bachelor’s in journalism.

Want more crows? Go to www.akronlife.com to check out some creepy crow movie clips.

Comments?

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

www.akronlife.com

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Shrinking City:

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by Charles E. Parsons and photos by William Teckmyer III

Advantage Akron?

Akron lost nearly 18,000 people since the 2007 census — and continues to lose people. To be a safe, sustainable, satisfying place to live in the years to come, Akron must find worth in its vacancy.

Turn on the nightly news, and you may catch a story about efforts to revitalize the shrinking city of Detroit. Do a little digging, and you can get plenty of information on what Pittsburgh has done to stay relevant.

Most “steel belt” cities have shrunk. Though many have gotten more press than Akron, you might be surprised at the efforts going on in The Rubber City to overcome the gloom and despondency associated with population loss — the efforts to make Akron a safe, sustainable, satisfying place to live.

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o understand Akron in the 21st century, one must first examine the situation of shrinking cities as a whole.

Until the year 1800, only 2 to 3 percent of the world’s population lived in cities. But the industrial revolution

changed all that. By 1900, 13 percent of people lived in city limits, jumping to 29 percent by 1950 and 47 percent by 2000.

However, continued improvements in mechanization led to more Americans commuting from suburbs, while the outsourcing of the industrial sector and the economic crisis have caused people to leave traditionally strong cities for places with more blue-collar jobs — or, at least, a better yearround climate.

This loss leads to what experts call “urban void.” As a city loses its people, what’s left behind is a geographical location without practical use or aesthetic virtue. What was once a bustling sector of a thriving metropolis doesn’t appear useful or attractive.

Furthermore, this loss can trigger an identity crisis for those who remain.

The fear of more loss becomes a concern for the people and businesses left

Akron is entering a period that experts call “new urbanism.” www.akronlife.com

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“These projects can be intimidating or non-sensical to those who don’t adequately understand the way to execute them or their advantages.” to deal with the abandoned streets, boarded windows, neglected community centers and schools on deteriorating properties. The city’s coffers dwindle and disappear due to the loss of tax revenues. Real estate prices fall.

As conditions worsen, unease and insecurity rise. Those traveling to and from the city for work, entertainment, health care and higher education begin to wonder about safety and whether or not that city will continue to offer solutions to their needs.

offering them what other “growing” cities cannot — access to a city center. Due to shrinking, Akron has a chance to clean up, making way to rezone and reuse its abandoned industrial and residential areas — and it’s doing just that through its active Brownfield program.

The landscape of Akron has changed due to Brownfield policies and restoration over the past 20 years, which include Canal Park and Lock 3. Other buildings that used to hold business and manufacturing now house art

Today, this is true of Akron.

No matter how you spin it, Akron has lost and continues to lose its people — entering a period that experts call “new urbanism.”

Top: Brownfield near S. Main Street. Bottom: Edgewood Village

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shrinking city is a complex situation. One advantage for Akron is that it has already created a comprehensive plan to deal with new urban issues. According to architectural and urban planning experts Joseph Schilling and John Logan, holistic approaches work best to identify opportunities and initiate action. This means that Akron, along with the nonprofit Keep Akron Beautiful, has done well to create Greenprint, a 200-page mission statement compiled in 2009. Greenprint is full of initiatives, goals and arrangements, though Akron’s advantages in a new urban environment can be lost due to the statement’s cumbersome length and unwieldy graphs.

One not-so-obvious advantage is Akron’s ability to attract new businesses and industry by 54

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Another economic solution (outlined in Greenprint) is to make use of clean energy, creating clean energy jobs in the process.

Those traditional manufacturing jobs so prevalent 50 years ago aren’t coming back.

And looking to clean-energy as a resource for Akron can be connected with another new urban goal also outlined in Greenprint: becoming environmentally friendly.

A shrinking city has the opportunity to adapt environmentally friendly alternatives to what has been a place of major pollution. Historically, according to shrinking cities researcher Tim Reineits — who most recently served as chair of architecture and urban design at ETH Zurich — cities produce close to 80 percent of all carbon dioxide and significant amounts of other greenhouse gases, primarily through the generation of energy, vehicle and industrial emissions, and biomass use. Expansion implies pollution. It also implies sprawl. Shrinking is the chance to make right what careless use of materials has created.

Between 2000 and 2007, Akron was No. 10 among U.S. cities in population loss, according to the World Almanac Education Group. According to the 2010 census, however, Akron’s population decreased 8.3 percent over 10 years — double the World Almanac findings.

In fact, the World Almanac statistics would no longer even include Akron as a qualifying city of 200,000 or more.

Akron lost nearly 18,000 people since the census in 2007, dropping under 200,000. (There haven’t been less than 200,000 people in Akron since 1911.)

New urbanism is a movement to recalculate what a city needs to create a sustainable future, which means having economic prosperity, making environmental progress and addressing community concerns.

is certainly another way to create economic prosperity.

venues and studios. Where there were once roads and parking lots, flowers and trees have been added to beautify the city.

Another advantage for Akron is that it’s in Ohio, one of only a few states that allow land banking — which enables a city to take control of and create solutions for problem properties. Though Deputy Director of Development of Summit County Patrick Bravo says that land banking is being looked into, it appears to be a no-brainer. (Land banks have been used successfully by Flint, Mich., to turn the tide against weak real-estate markets.) Improvements made to properties in neighborhoods overwhelmed by foreclosure and neglect receive renewed interest from buyers, creating positive energy and direction. And getting people and businesses back into properties that have been abandoned october 2011

Cleaner, better air and safer water could draw citizens back to a region.

So could a promising new job in a green industry. Uncultivated and unused lots in a shrinking city may look like a crisis to some, but experts emphasize the idea of right-sizing to replace vacancy with green space.

Though Akron’s population may be shrinking, the city limits remain the same, covering 62 square miles. That means there’s a lot of opportunity for the redevelopment of land that had prior uses. And this redevelopment is a chance for the city and citizens to work together to improve residents’ quality of life through community gardens, access to parks and wildlife, and other creative green projects.

Another advantage of green planning is that it gives the city an opportunity to reject urban sprawl that has a historical connection to social inequality. According to Schilling and Logan, any urban strategy for a city facing issues due to shrinkage revisits problems of social equality, as residents in neighborhoods with high concentrations of vacant properties are often predominately low-income and people of color. The leaders of Akron have noted

Uncultivated and unused lots in a shrinking city may look like a crisis to some, but experts emphasize the idea of right-sizing to replace vacancy with green space. this connection and are trying to respond to these issues with a Consolidated Strategy and Plan, which serves as a working guide for the use of federal resources to address local housing, quality of living and economic needs.

should be kept to avoid sprawl. This makes the inner-city denser. It is, after all, not the suburbs. Other researchers point out that some low-income or minority communities want to be rebuilt and reinvigorated, desiring not to lose status.

Social reclamation also means working together regardless of the economic, ethnic, religious or educational boundaries that tend to divide people. An advantage of fewer residents is that there’s a better chance for those remaining to get to know one another.

The city might deem these neighborhoods as too broken and itself too broke to operate on their historical models, but how do citizens know this if there’s no open discussion?

Communication must be a primary goal.

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etting to know each other raises an important question: Who’s more responsible for the survival of a shrinking city — the city’s leaders or the city’s residents? It’s common for both sides to see the other side as not doing enough.

Another situation facing Akron is the upcoming election for the mayor’s office. If mayorship switches hands, what happens to the vision for the city? Will the new leader have the same sort of acknowledgment of Akron’s status, or will there be a return to outdated policies and business-as-usual politics? Would Greenprint efforts be reduced or eliminated?

One city staffer speaking on the condition of anonymity says that though progress may be slow in Plusquellic’s Akron, it is progress.

Keep Akron Beautiful is the main partner in Akron’s efforts to connect with citizens.

To move forward, however, President Paula Davis says there needs to be more connection between residents and city.

Akron cannot afford to stop planning or let its plans falter.

“The city’s impact is small — the people are what really matter,” she says.

Akron can be a city free of many of its present burdens. To do so, however, it’ll have to remain true to its new urban vision: eliminating the burdens associated with the industry of its past and limiting the negative pollutants of the industry of the present and future. It must also inspire thoughtful and enthused politicians to take to its city chambers. It must activate the best city planners and recruit the activists from the community who will guide it for generations to come.

Furthermore, Davis points out that while the Greenprint declaration has brought some improvement, one shouldn’t get caught up in the hype; publicity of projects has been weak and citizen participation disappointing.

Why so difficult getting people to serve their community? Akron resident Mary Yund — a part of the very public Davis was commenting on — says that’s not really the case; it’s more complicated than that: “It’s not fair to put too much responsibility on the shoulders of residents. It’s easy to say that anybody can contribute in a significant way to their community, but it starts with adequate training and sufficient motivation. How can you expect someone who has spent her entire life shopping at a supermarket to go out and start a community garden? These projects can be intimidating or non-sensical to those who don’t adequately understand the way to execute them or their advantages. Time, training and resources are needed before most people can get involved.”

Akron has the advantage of having nonprofit leadership in place, but it certainly could use more creative collaboration between the city and its residents. More emphasis must be

Top: Library in downtown Akron. Bottom: Community Garden

placed on neighborhood-level plans. This is where many municipalities fall short: They’re wishy-washy about committing themselves on a microcosmic level. Urban problems require public leaders and citizens working together, but public participation must be earned.

And an effective plan for a city and its public requires consensus.

Consensus calls for debate. For example, two neighborhoods in Akron are currently on the docket to be razed, but where’s the public discourse? Many critics of new urban planning argue that houses and old business platforms

This is a period of revision for a city with a storied past. It’s a period where shrinking is a chance to create new prosperity with cleaner functionality, all while facilitating a friendlier connection between the city and its public.

In these ways, shrinking is to Akron’s advantage. / Charles E. Parsons is a writer living in Northeast Ohio whose projects include screenplays, novels and non-fiction. He’s currently focusing much of his time on his new career in financial services with New York Life.

Comments?

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

www.akronlife.com

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education

by Kirstin S. Toth

Choosing a Private School

/ Private and parochial school options abound — so how do you select a school that’s right for your child? /

>> Summit County alone is home to 18

public school districts, ranging in all sizes and focus, wholly dependent upon the resources available to it from its geographic location. Without debating the reasonable resource allocation of so many districts in one county, suffice it to say that there are many options available to area families.

>> What many families may not be as familiar with is the prevalence of private schools available in Northeast Ohio, ranging from offerings based in religious preferences to those offering an elite college-preparatory curriculum.

In Summit, Stark, Medina and Portage counties, there are more than 100 private or parochial schools for families to choose from, according to EducationBug.com. And many families are choosing to send their children the private-school route. In Summit County alone, more than 81,000 students attend public schools, while another 11,720 (a little more than 14 percent) attend a private or parochial school, according to the Ohio Department of Education.

And this is in addition to the more than 2,400 Summit County students attending “community” schools — Ohio’s name for charter schools. Nationwide, about 10 percent of students attend private schools.

Families choose a private school education for their children for a number of reasons: •The parents themselves attended a private or parochial school; •Some families seek to be relieved of central city school stressors facing many urban and inner-ring suburban schools; •Some parents are looking for a narrower focus in philosophy for educating their kids, such as along religious (Christian or Jewish-based) or pedagogical or philosophical lines (like the Montessori method).

Whatever your preference, Greater Akron has a broad array of private and parochial schools to choose from. So just how do you choose? Consider the following:

There are more than 100 private or parochial schools in Summit, Stark, Medina and Portage counties for you to choose from.

1. Identify your child’s specific needs. Education should always start and end with the best options tailored to your child’s specific needs and learning style. Ask yourself (and your child) if he or she would best thrive in a traditional or progressive setting; co-ed or single sex; religious or secular. Does your child have special learning needs that require special services or attention? How will teachers communicate with you and your child about prog-

ress? What different types of learning experiences are offered (sports, arts, science and technology-based enrichment, etc.)?

2. Address the practical considerations. How close or far is the school to your home, and is busing provided? What before and/or after-school care or enrichment activities are available to your child?

How much parent volunteer or involvement is expected?

Quite importantly, what does

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the tuition cost, and what additional expenditures can be expected throughout the school year, such as for fundraising activities or extra-curricular activities?

Nationwide, about 10 percent of students attend private schools.

3. Ask yourself how you’ll finance this portion of your child’s education. Knowing that the typical costs of a post-secondary/college education continue to grow and can top more than $100,000 over four or more years, how will this primary education cost fit into your long-term plans and immediate budget? Using Summit County as an example, private and parochial schools’ tuition costs range anywhere from a low $3,000 in early primary grades all the way to a high of more than $28,000 for high schoolers. While many private and parochial schools offer generous tuition assistance to those who qualify based upon need and/or academic merit, cost still remains an important consideration for every family nowadays.

How your child performs is what really matters to prospective colleges.

4. Make a list, survey your choices and visit several options. Since this is one of the most important investments you can make in your child’s future, you owe it to yourself to choose wisely. Don’t be shy about getting on the phone and asking direct questions, including the teacher-to-student ratio; teachers’ background and qualifications; services available on-site, such as a nurse, guidance counselor and librarian. Inquire as to how the school makes placement choices — what entrance tests are required if any, and what curriculum will they follow for your child? When you visit, look around at the facilities for cleanliness (newness isn’t the mark of an excellent educational environment). Watch the teachers teach and observe the students engagement in the

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subject and with each other. Is the style of classroom management one that fits your child’s learning style?

5. Make your decision. Decide what’s best for your child based upon your informed observation and research, and don’t forget to ask around with friends. Remember, don’t rely just upon a school’s name recognition or reputation — the choice should be about your child’s needs. How your child performs is what really matters to prospective colleges; don’t assume that the school name will guarantee a great outcome for your child.

6. Apply early — like now! It’s not too early to make applications for the next academic year, especially if scholarships or financial aid will be requested. Most schools like to know their enrollment as soon as possible, such as by spring 2012 for the following academic year. / Writer Kirstin Toth is Senior Program Officer at GAR Foundation and has a special interest in education.

Comments?

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

For More Information All the sources below offer a complete list of area schools for you to assess and consider:

• The National Association of Independent Schools, www.nais.org • The Ohio Association of Independent Schools, www.oais.org • The Office of Catholic Education of the Diocese of Cleveland, www.oce-ocs.org/oce/index. shtml • The Ohio Department of Education, www.ode.state.oh.us/

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promotional editorial

Kent State University Meet Kent State University’s Second President’s Ambassador, Roxia Boykin “André Thornton has done an

in health care administration from

exceptional job of promoting the

Cleveland State University.

importance of diversity in the business world,” says Kent State University President Lester A. Lefton.

“Now we are thrilled to have Roxia Boykin joining us in the fall as our second President’s Ambassador. And it’s especially wonderful to have a Kent State alumna in the position.”

Established in 2010, the President’s Ambassadorship was created and implemented by the university’s Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The program is a vehicle for securing the services of a local, high-level person of color who will serve as a catalyst for change, promoting pluralistic understanding and mutual respect among diverse constituencies of students, staff, faculty and administrators at the university.

T

“I think this is an evolving position,” his September, Roxia Boykin stepped into the role of President’s Ambassador at Kent State University.

A Kent State alumna, Boykin is vice president of community benefit and diversity for Akron’s Summa Health System and

to serve in this role, I see that we both have different skills, experiences and perspectives to offer the community, faculty and students.”

a leader in driving Summa’s initiatives in the community, as

Boykin will be involved in a variety

well as being very active in civic organizations.

of projects at the university. Those

The President’s Ambassadorship is designed to bring distinguished local minority professionals from Northeast Ohio to Kent State to share their professional knowledge and experience with students and faculty.

This position was previously held by distinguished businessman and baseball legend André Thornton. Thornton, who served as the university’s very first President’s Ambassador, was appointed in August 2010. Each President’s Ambassador performs the official duties for one academic year.

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says Boykin. “As the second person

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projects may include speaking at seminars and special events, engaging students, working on advisory committees, addressing diversity challenges and implementing diversity initiatives.

Boykin earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Kent State and her Master of Public Administration degree with emphasis

Boykin joined Summa Health System in August 2007 and has more than 30 years of comprehensive experience in varied hospital and health system environments, having served in many different capacities including chief nursing officer and chief operations officer.

In her role as vice president of community benefit and diversity at Summa Health System, Boykin oversees the development and implementation of the system’s strategic objectives in the areas of community relations, community benefit and diversity.

In her career, Boykin has been recognized and honored with a long list of awards for her service and contributions to the community. She is actively involved in professional and civic organizations.

As Boykin returns to campus in this new role of President’s Ambassador, she reflects on her college experience in Kent: “My professional success has stemmed from the support I received during my undergraduate education,” she says.

“What I’ve gained from my career at Kent State has been invaluable.”

promotional editorial

Baldwin-Wallace College Conservatory of Music Renovation, Expansion Creates Impressive Complex While the new facilities welcome

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community who participate in outreach classes and programs each year, they are primarily designed for faculty-student and peer-to-peer interactions. The complex blends the beauty of historic architecture with new construction. But beyond the dramatic physical expanse, the new Conservatory provides stellar learning experiences.

UndergraduateOnly Conservatory With an emphasis on experiential

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learning within a liberal arts ramatic renovation with new construction is nearly doubling space for the Baldwin-Wallace College’s Conservatory of Music, making it a world-class facility offering outstanding

learning opportunities for students.

In 2008, the College purchased the historic First Congregational United Church of Christ facilities, adjacent to the Conservatory’s Merner-Pfeiffer Hall. The church buildings have been completely

offers outstanding opportunities.

Students take lead roles in performing, composing, conducting, managing and teaching.

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to a Career From the College’s impressive Bach Festival to its recent graduates on Broadway, BaldwinWallace’s Conservatory of Music has garnered national and international attention. B-W alumni have been accepted to the best graduate schools and work as professionals in symphony orchestras and as teachers, composers, arts managers and music therapists worldwide.

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renovated to provide new performance and rehearsal spaces, as

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District, the four-building complex incorporates new, soundproofed practice rooms, classrooms, teaching studios and rehearsal halls that can accommodate the latest technologies for teaching and performance. Also spotlighted in the new facility are the Riemenschneider Bach Institute and the Jones Music Library, both offering outstanding, one-of-a-kind music collections. The facility supports campus efforts in sustainability as well — it’s heated and cooled by geothermal wells.

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environment, the Conservatory

Professional Results Leading

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faculty are members of the Cleveland Orchestra, and most perform with acclaimed arts organizations around the world.

Through B-W’s renowned annual Bach Festival, students perform with internationally acclaimed instrumental and vocal soloists.

The biennial Focus Festival brings

october 2011

For information about Baldwin-

promotional editorial

by Alexandra Houser Vukoder and photos by J. Ryan Photography

How YOU Can Fight Breast Cancer

M

ost women are so busy taking care of everyone else — their children, their spouses, elderly parents — that they barely have time to do what they need to stay well themselves, including scheduling their yearly mammogram. But for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, as the Official Sponsor of Birthdays, the American Cancer Society wants all women to take steps to reduce their breast cancer risk so they can have what they most desire — more time to celebrate special occasions with their loved ones. By taking action, women can fight breast cancer, save lives and ultimately create a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays.

Studies have clearly shown that early detection of breast cancer through mammography greatly improves treatment options, the chances for successful treatment and survival. In fact, getting yearly mammograms is the most important action that women can take to find breast cancer early, before physical symptoms develop and when the disease is most treatable.

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For women of average risk, the American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms and clinical breast exams for women 40 and older and clinical breast exams every three years for women in their 20s and 30s. Women with a high risk for breast cancer should talk to their doctor about when screening should begin and what other testing, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), they might wish to consider.

Here are some tips to help YOU create a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays: Schedule your yearly mammogram and treat yourself afterwards: If you’re 40 or older, grab a friend or two and schedule your yearly mammogram. Then treat yourselves to something fun afterwards — you deserve that and much more for taking charge of your health.

Speak out for those who can’t afford to get their mammograms: Low-income women are less likely to have had a mammogram. The National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (NBCCEDP) is a federal/state-funded program that provides free or low-cost

mammograms and Pap tests for lowincome, uninsured or underinsured women. However, only one in five eligible women between the ages of 50 and 64 nationally are being served due to a lack of resources. Visit acscan.org/makingstrides to find out how you can help urge Congress to increase funding for this lifesaving program.

Contact the American Cancer Society for resources that can help you get well: The American Cancer Society helps newly diagnosed patients and their loved ones by providing free information around the clock by calling 1-800-2272345 or visiting cancer.org. Additional resources include books such as “Breast Cancer Clear & Simple,” which provides easy-to-understand information on the various aspects breast cancer patients face, including answers to questions like “What will happen to me?” and “How will cancer treatment affect my work?”

The Society’s dedicated volunteers will drive breast cancer patients to treatment, and breast cancer survivors will help newly diagnosed patients through their breast cancer journey.

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330-825-4446

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

The NFL will help fight breast cancer and save lives with “A Crucial Catch” screening campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

As the nation marks the annual National Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, the American Cancer Society is joining the National Football League (NFL) and its owners and players with a breast cancer screening campaign called “A Crucial Catch: Annual Screening Saves Lives.” This campaign reminds women 40 and older about the importance of getting a mammogram and clinical breast exam every year to find breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stage.

Throughout October, NFL games will feature team owners, players, coaches and officials wearing pink game apparel to raise awareness for the campaign. Apparel worn at games by players and coaches, special footballs and pink coins will be auctioned off with proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society and team charities.

The Cleveland Browns will kick off “Crucial Catch” Sunday, Oct. 2 with breast cancer survivors and their guests representing the American Cancer Society as part of the gauntlet to welcome the team onto the field. For more information on the Browns apparel auctions, visit the Northeast Ohio walk pages at www.cancer.org/stridesonline.

More than 2.5 million Americans who are surviving breast cancer will celebrate a birthday this year thanks to the American Cancer Society and supporters like the NFL who are helping save lives. Fans can visit www.NFL.com/pink to learn more about reducing their risk of breast cancer and scheduling an early detection exam.

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Here’s How You Can Help Save Lives

Carolyn Bernstorf Carolyn Bernstorf epitomizes courage and determination in the fight against cancer. A six-year breast cancer survivor, she has celebrated her survivorship by raising funds and awareness. This is her story.

Breast cancer is not a foreign topic to Carolyn Bernstorf, 55, of Rittman. Her mother, Louise, was a 20-year breast cancer survivor.

Above: Carolyn with her husband, Allen, and son Paul at the 2010 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk

“I can still distinctly remember her phone call to me in 1986, telling me of her diagnosis,” says Carolyn.

“I really didn’t know or think much about breast cancer in those days. Times were so different back then. Breast cancer wasn’t openly talked about as it is today.

“My mother didn’t tell too many people, only close friends, and didn’t even want me to take time off work to travel back to be with her during her recovery period. My mother was a 5th grade elementary school teacher, and needless to say, she didn’t even try to explain to her students what was going on and why she wasn’t going to be teaching for a period of time.”

Left: Carolyn’s mother Louise Wentzel

With Carolyn now having a family history of breast cancer, her physician insisted that she get a baseline mammogram at age 30, and she has faithfully had one every year since.

Early detection works! Six years ago, during a routine mammogram, a cancerous lump that was not felt externally was detected.

“Now it was my turn to make the call to my mother,” says Carolyn. “We cried. We compared notes. I could get away with a lumpectomy, whereas she had no choice but a mastectomy. We both took Tamoxifen — and the American Cancer Society played a huge role in its discovery to reduce the risk of a reoccurrence of breast cancer.”

When asked why she participates in American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, Carolyn explains that it’s very simple: She’s passionate about eliminating this horrible disease.

“I walk and fundraise to honor the memory of those who we have lost to this disease, as well as to celebrate the lives of breast cancer survivors. On a more personal note, I’m walking in memory of my mother. She and I were very close, she was my best friend, and although we were 400 miles apart after I married and moved away, we always kept in touch by phone or our weekly letters. She was a 20-year breast cancer survivor when she passed away. Everyone walks for a reason that’s very personal and unique to them. It’s my hope that one day, we won’t have to walk to find a cure for breast cancer, but to celebrate its disappearance!”

You can join Carolyn and her family along with thousands of others walking in Akron on Oct. 16 at the University of Akron’s Field House. For more information on how you can help save lives from breast cancer, visit www.cancer.org/stridesonline.

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Start a Team Team leaders are the heart and soul of Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Sign up online to start your team, and invite your friends to join you. Then, using the tools in your Personal Participant Center, ask friends and family to support your effort with a donation to help save lives from breast cancer.

Join a Team When you sign up to join a Making Strides Against Breast Cancer team, you’re committing to share your passion to raise funds to help save lives from breast cancer.

Your team leader will guide you through the process, and together you’ll ask friends and family to support your effort with a donation to help create a world with more birthdays.

Walk as an Individual You may sign up as an individual, but you won’t be alone. Individual walkers are part of our nationwide community of Making Strides participants and fundraisers.

We’ll be here with you every step of the way as you ask friends and family to support your effort to save lives with a donation. And on the day of the walk, you’ll stand side by side with others who share your passion.

Donate to a Walker Making Strides is more than a walk — it’s a fundraising event to help save lives from breast cancer. The dollars raised through the Making Strides events help the American Cancer Society

continue to save lives by helping people stay well, by helping people get well, by finding cures and by fighting back against breast cancer — and we can’t do it without your donations. Search for a Making Strides participant by name to make a donation in support of their fundraising effort.

Donate to a Team Do you have several friends all walking on the same team? No problem. You can support the whole team with a donation and know that you’re helping create a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays. Search for a Making Strides team by name to make a donation to support their fundraising efforts.

Make a General Donation Last year Making Strides events raised more than $60 million to help people stay well, get well, find cures and fight back against breast cancer — and it happened one $10, $25 and $50 donation at a time.

Become a Volunteer Making Strides volunteers are the driving force behind our incredible event. Share your passion to help create a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays by sharing your time as a volunteer.

So please take a moment to sign up today!

Together, we can create a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays. Learn more at cancer.org/stridesonline.

Fighting Back: Join Us and Help Save Lives Cancer touches more than just the people diagnosed. It has an impact on everyone around them. That’s why the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk unites communities to celebrate people who have battled breast cancer, educates people about ways to reduce their risk and empowers communities to join the fight. Every dollar you raise and every step you take will save lives by helping people stay well and get well, by finding cures and by fighting back against breast cancer.

Akron Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk — Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011 University of Akron Field House Canton Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk — Sunday, Oct. 23, 2011 Canton McKinley High School For both walks, registration starts at 9 a.m., and the walk begins at 10 a.m.

Flagship sponsors of the Akron walk are Acme, Akron Education Association, Curves, OMNOVA Solutions, Inc. and Time Warner Cable. Media partners are akronlife magazine, Fox 8 TV and WQMX 94.9 FM Radio.

Aultman Hospital is the Canton event’s flagship sponsor.

Media partners are akronlife magazine, Mix 94.1 FM Radio and 1480 WHBC-AM News – Talk Radio, The Repository and About Magazine.

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Healthy Tips

O steoporos is: What You Need to Know O steo po ros i s i s a co nd iti o n i n wh i c h the bo nes beco me wea k a nd ca n b rea k eas i ly. B ro ken bo nes d ue to osteo po ros i s of ten occ u r i n the h i p, s pi ne a nd wri st — bu t a ny bo ne i n the body ca n be vu l nera ble.

Q: How serious is osteoporosis?

A: Osteoporosis increases your chances for breaking a hip, and a hip fracture can seriously jeopardize your health and independence.

Q: What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?

A: Unfortunately, there are none. Osteoporosis “sneaks” up on you — and breaking a bone may be the first clue that something is wrong.

By that time, the disease may be advanced.

Osteoporosis can cause broken bones in the spine (vertebral fractures), which shortens the spine. As a result, a person may lose some height or their posture may become hunched over or stooped.

Q: How common is osteoporosis and who does it affect?

A: According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, about 10 million Americans already have osteoporosis — and about 34 million more are at risk of developing the disease. Osteoporosis can affect people of all ages, but it’s far more common in older adults. And since women have lighter, thinner bones than men and tend to lose bone quickly after menopause, the disease also is more common in women than in men. About one in two women over age 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. But osteoporosis isn’t just a “woman’s disease.” In fact, one in four men will break a bone due to osteoporosis.

Q: How is osteoporosis detected and diagnosed?

A: Your doctor will review your medical history to identify whether you have any risk factors for osteoporosis, plus perform a physical exam.

It’s important to know that there are certain medicines and medical conditions that can also cause bone loss. If your doctor suspects you may have osteoporosis, he/she should schedule a bone mineral density test, which is the only test that can detect osteoporosis before you break a bone.

Osteoporosis can be prevented; it also can be diagnosed and treated before any fracture occurs. And even after the first fracture has occurred, there are effective treatments to decrease the risk of further fractures.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) recommends that you have a bone density test if you: • Are a woman age 65 or older • Are a man age 70 or older • Are a woman of menopausal age with risk factors 70

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• Are a man age 50-69 with risk factors • Are a postmenopausal woman under age 65 with risk factors • Break a bone after age 50 Common risk factors for osteoporosis include: • Older age • Being female • Family history (osteoporosis/broken bones) • Having reached menopause • Being small and thin • Smoking • Vitamin D deficiency • Excessive alcohol intake • Taking steroid medications • High caffeine intake • Adults with diseases associated with low bone mass (gastrointestinal disease, overactive thyroid, eating disorders) • Adults taking medications associated with low bone mass (steroids, seizure, some thyroid medications, cancer treatment) Q: How is osteoporosis treated?

A: There are medications that can slow or reverse bone loss. If you’re diagnosed with osteoporosis, talk to your doctor about which — if any — medication is the right treatment for you.

Q: What can I do to prevent osteoporosis?

A: You can lower your risk of developing osteoporosis by: • Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of calcium and vitamin D • Staying active and including weight-bearing exercises in your fitness routine • Limiting your alcohol and caffeine intake • Quitting or not smoking If you suspect you may be at risk for developing osteoporosis, talk to your primary care physician about getting a referral for a bone mineral density test. Your physician’s office staff can call 330-670-4000 to schedule an appointment with a Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center specialist. The Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center is a joint partnership with Summa Health System and is located on the campus of Summa St. Thomas Hospital in Akron.

HOME & GARDEN home & garden cover sponsored by BBB

Objective: Opulent Bath home undergoes palatial renovation Plus: What to Know Before You Remodel 5 Ways to Save $$$ Around the House

Sponsored by Better Business Bureau® serving Ashland, Medina, Portage, Richland, Summit and Wayne Counties www.akron.bbb.org

home & garden

by Abby Cymerman and photos by Brenda Long

King of the Hill

/ Music engineer Jeff Lee renovated this Bath home to suit his needs. /

>> They say a man’s

home is his castle, and Jeff Lee’s home certainly fits that palatial bill. Nestled on a hillside in Bath, this fivebedroom, four-bathroom, three-level home combines classic, natural beauty with state-of-the-art technology.

>> Lee, a music engineer for recording artists worldwide, bought the home in 2003 and made it a luxurious place to live. The private master suite features a polished marble fireplace, whirlpool tub, polished limestone shower, a private laundry room and a Yamaha surround-sound system.

The original lower level was a simple basement, but Lee turned it into an entertainment haven, complete with a wine-tasting room, wet bar and concession stand with a builtin commercial draft beer system. And his Roman-style spa was featured in Wall Street Journal Weekend in 2005 because of its opulent features: a jetted soaking tub, Swedish steam bath, “rainforest” shower head, waterfall and sauna large enough for six adults.

Without a doubt, Lee’s favorite spot on the lower level is the home theater, complete with a sound system he installed himself. “This is the finest movie-watching experience you’ll ever want to have,” he says. “Each of the six theatre recliners has installed to the frames an AURA Bass shaker subwoofer device. When you’re watching a movie and a bomb hits or a jet flies overhead, your pant legs literally move, and you feel like you’re right in the middle of the battlefield.”

Entertaining is essential for Jeff Lee, who adapted the lower level of his home to include this wet bar, located near the wine-tasting area, home theater, concession counter and spa.

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Upper left: This streamlined galley kitchen features two dishwashers, two stoves, a Viking cook top, wine and beverage coolers, and lighted glass-front cabinets. An additional caterer’s kitchen is on the home’s second level.

Upper right: The attention-grabber of the Great Room is a fireplace with a stone surround made of river rock, marble and polished limestone from Italy. Natural light shines down from one of the home’s seven cedar pagoda ceilings and skylights.

Lower left: The home’s cobblestone patio has two gazebos, a Bose sound system, landscape lights for nighttime entertaining, a Jenn-Air stainless gas grill and a fire pit.

Beyond this area lie three waterfalls that flow to lighted ponds below.

To view more photos of this home, check out akronlife.com, Home and Garden, Featured Homes for Sale, “King of the Hill.”

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home & garden

by Amanda Warner

Remodeling or Adding On? / Start planning now to ensure a successful project in the spring. /

If you’re >> considering remodeling or adding on to your home in the spring, it’s not too early to start the planning process and to make a few decisions. To help, consider the following: Planning Your Project Before selecting a remodeling contractor, you should carefully plan your project from start to finish. For example, if your project involves a room addition, determine exactly what your needs are, how the room is to be used and what you want the completed job to look like. It’s a good idea to coordinate your color schemes and draw a simple floor plan using miniature tables and chairs to lay out the room arrangement.

Be specific in explaining to the contractor what you want, and be sure to approve any architectural plans that are involved in the remodeling job before the contractor begins the work. Home improvement isn’t an exact science.

Expensive hidden problems can be uncovered once work has begun.

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Roberts Remodeling and Construction

Hiring a Contractor Begin by contacting the Akron Better Business Bureau either by visiting www.akron.bbb.org or by calling the 24/7 toll-free number 330-253-4590.

Check out BBB Business Reviews on companies that you’re considering for the job. The BBB Business Review is a good source to tell you how long a contractor has been in business and if the company has been responsive to any complaints filed with the BBB. It’s extremely important to compare costs before making a financial commitment toward any home improvement project. You should solicit at least two or three bids from prospective contractors — bids based upon the same building specifications, materials, labor and time needed to complete the project.

Discuss bids in detail with each contractor, making certain you understand the reasons for any variations

october 2011

in the prices. Do not automatically choose the lowest price. One contractor’s bid might be higher because the materials to be used are of a better quality or because the work will be especially thorough and, therefore, require more time and labor.

Ask the remodeling contractor for local references, and find out if these customers were satisfied with the contractor’s work. If possible, visit and inspect their completed projects. Find out if the contractor is a member of a professional association, which has standards or a code of ethics for remodelers.

Another important matter to consider before hiring a contractor is to make sure he’s insured. Ask the contractor if the company is insured against claims covering worker’s compensation, property damage and personal liability in case of accidents. Then call to verify the contractor’s insurance coverage after obtaining the name of the carrier and agency.

Finally, check with your state, county or city housing authority to see if the contractor must meet certain licensing and/or bonding requirements in your area. If so, make sure your contractor is properly licensed and bonded.

Financing Your Project To obtain financing for your home improvement project you may want to consider a personal or bank loan, a home equity loan, a loan from your credit union or insurance company, or a loan from a savings and loan institution. While your contractor may be able to assist you in securing the needed financing, it’s important that you investigate the various sources of funding and compare the amounts, interest rates, terms and tax considerations.

If you can’t pay for a home improvement project without a loan, it’s a wise idea to put a clause in your contract with the remodeler stating that the agreement is valid only if financing is obtained.

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans for home improvements are available through certain banks and other lending institutions. However, FHA requires that the lender approve any contractor associated with the loan request and will not guarantee the work or the contractor. Be wary of any contractor

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

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who tells you that he/she has been approved or endorsed by the FHA. If your home improvement project results from an accident or natural disaster that’s covered by insurance, check with your insurance company to determine the extent of coverage before signing a contract to have the damages repaired.

Getting a Building Permit

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Building codes are established by most cities, towns and counties and may vary considerably from one jurisdiction to another. Your contract should state that the work is performed in accordance with all applicable building codes and zoning regulations in the area where you reside.

If the project requires a building permit, the contractor should apply for it in his name so if his work doesn’t pass inspection, you can’t be held financially responsible for corrections that must be made.

A building permit is generally required when performing structural work or when a home’s basic living area is changed. Separate permits for electrical, heating or plumbing work are required in some cases. Check with your local department of licensing and permits when starting a job to learn if a building or work permit is required.

If the project does, in fact, require a building permit, the contractor should apply for it in his or her name. That way, if the contractor’s work doesn’t pass inspection, you can’t be held financially responsible for any corrections that must be made. Terms regarding the application of any permits should be outlined in the written contract.

When a government agency issues a permit for home improvement work, it will inspect the work when that work has reached a certain stage to make sure it complies with various codes and regulations. It’s the responsibility of the contractor to arrange for these inspections.

Contract Negotiations

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Terms and Conditions: All agreements and oral promises regarding a home improvement project should be put in writing to protect

Quick Check List

Before selecting a remodeling contractor, you should do the following: • Plan your project from start to finish.

• Be specific in explaining exactly what you want.

• Contact your local Better Business Bureau to find a BBB Accredited Business, and look up their BBB Business Review and rating.

• Be sure to approve any architectural plans that are involved before the contract work begins.

• Compare costs before making a financial commitment.

• Discuss bids in detail with each contractor.

• Ask the contractor for local references, and find out if he or she is a member of a professional remodelers association.

• Find out if a contractor is insured against claims covering worker’s compensation, property damage and personal liability.

• Check with state, county or city housing authorities to be sure that a contractor meets all area licensing/bonding requirements.

both the customer and the contractor. Walk through the project area with the company explaining exactly what you want done. Ask them for a start and finish date, and discuss in detail what materials you want. If you intend to do some of the work yourself or hire another contractor to do it, such terms should be written into the contract as well.

You should also ask about any warranties and guarantees of workmanship and the payment schedule.

Read the contract carefully through before signing off on it. Make sure you both agree on a start and finish date, a description of the project and a breakdown of the cost for labor and materials.

You should make every attempt to pay a minimal or no down payment for supplies or services, especially if you haven’t done www.akronlife.com

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business with a contractor in the past.

You shouldn’t make any payments for incomplete work. Payments should be scheduled at weekly or monthly intervals or after completion of each phase of the project. All of these terms should be spelled out in the contract and clearly understood by both you and the contractor. Make sure you get copies of all the contracts and change orders that include the cost of the changes. Never pay a contractor for the entire job in advance and avoid paying in cash whenever possible.

Cancellation Rights: When you sign a home improvement contract in your home and in the presence of a contractor or contractor’s representative, you have three business days in which to change your mind and cancel the contract. The contractor is required to tell you about your cancellation rights and provide you with any cancellation forms. If you cancel, it’s recommended that a notice of cancellation be sent to the contractor by certified mail, with a return receipt request.

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Never make final payment or sign an affidavit of final release until you’re satisfied with the work done and know that all subcontractors and suppliers have been paid. An inspector from your local building department should have inspected and signed off on the work, if a permit was needed.

Lien Protection: For a large remodeling job that involves several subcontractors and a substantial financial commitment, you should protect yourself from liens against your home if the primary contractor doesn’t pay his or her subcontractors or suppliers. You may do this by adding a release-of-lien clause to the contract or by placing your payments in an escrow account until the work is completed.

Warranty Clause: Any warranty offered on products by the contractor should be in writing and scrutinized carefully.

Make certain you understand all the terms and conditions, including the length of the warranty. The warranty must state whether it’s a FULL warranty that gives the consumer certain automatic rights or a LIMITED warranty that restricts certain consumer rights.

Waterpik EcoFlow Shower Head

Ways to 5 Easy Save Money Around the House

Saving money around the house can be done in many ways, but sometimes, the smaller things that can really make a difference are overlooked. The following five tips are guaranteed to help you save money: 1. Buy twin draft guards: These double-sided insulation devices slide under the door to eliminate cold or warm air drafts from the underside of the door.

2. Use programmable thermostats: Energy is wasted when no one is home, so why not set the thermostat to turn off when you leave and turn on 15 minutes before you get home?

3. Turn down the water heater: If you’re going on vacation, you should turn your water heater to low. It’s amazing how much energy goes into heating water, and it’s a definite waste if no one is going to use it for a while.

4. Use low-flow shower heads: Older shower heads guzzle out unnecessary amounts of water, while a low-flow shower head will give you the right amount of pressure without waste.

5. Don’t waste toiletry products: Use only the amount of toiletry products needed to do the job. Common examples of wastefulness are exaggerated amounts of toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner and toilet paper.

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weeeew Welcome to Green!

Letter from the mayor

>>

I

believe Green is one of the best places to live in the country — that’s why my family has called Green home for more than 30 years. As mayor, I’m pleased to be a part of shaping the future of the community that I love. My vision for Green is to share globally that our community is truly one of the best places to live, work and play.

What makes Green so special?

• The Green Local School District is the top-rated school system in Summit County and ranks in the top 10 percent in the state of Ohio.

• More than 25 percent of our youth participate in recreational sports teams. We also have a very active adult and senior population, with more than 1,500 adults and seniors participating in city-sponsored programs.

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• We have more than 530 acres of parkland in 10 city parks, and Green is also home to a large portion of the Portage Lakes State Park.

• We’re home to one of the fastest growing airports in the country — the Akron-Canton Airport, providing travelers efficient, stressfree access to the rest of the world.

• Green is serviced by three I-77 exits, giving commuters easy access to Akron or Canton in less than 15 minutes and to downtown Cleveland in just a 45-minute drive.

• Green has a myriad of housing options from apartments, condominiums, senior living and a breadth of neighborhoods with single-family homes to meet your family’s needs.

• Green has three shopping districts located along South Main Street, South Arlington and Massillon roads, providing consumers access to major retail stores, grocers and small

october 2011

local shops. Additional major regional shopping districts are in close proximity including Belden Village and the Strip area, and Chapel Hill and Summit malls.

• We’re a city looking to do business at every level in a way that demonstrates our commitment to the next generation.

• Green values the more than 1,100 businesses that have decided to call Green “home,” whether large or small.

• And so much more.

I invite you and your family to come play in our parks, dine at our restaurants, catch a movie or work for one of our many worldclass businesses, and you’ll see why so many people choose to live, work and play in Green.

Dick Norton, Mayor

weeeew Prosperous. Progressive. Promising — Green Has It All

residents an estimated $1.85 million per year. In addition, Green operates a joint dispatch center for EMS services for several southern Summit County townships and municipalities.

G

reen is one of the youngest cities in Summit County, incorporated in 1992. Since then, the 33.5-square-mile city has evolved into one of the most prosperous, progressive communities in Northeast Ohio, with a future as promising as any 20-year-old.

Green is prosperous. With one of the fastest growing airports in the country, the Akron-Canton Airport, and a diverse business base, Green has grown in both business and development. Green is home to more than 1,100 diverse businesses including some well-known brands such as FedEx Custom Critical, Diebold, Inc. and Harry London/Fannie May Chocolates; research and development centers such as Goodrich and Hankook Tire; as well as some locally owned manufacturing firms, small back-office operations and familyowned businesses. Because of the diversity of the industry segments and business sizes in Green, the city has continued to prosper even in the recent economic downturn.

“We have continued to make strategic investments in our infrastructure to cultivate a robust business environment here in Green,” says Mayor Dick Norton. “And as our business community thrives, many families are choosing to make Green their home.”

Both Akron General and Summa Health System have announced their intentions to expand their presence in Green: Both hospital systems will soon open 24-hour emergency departments in the town center along Massillon Road near I-77. In addition to the emergency facility, Akron General also plans to open a new medical office building and a Health and Wellness Center, which will house a state-of-the-art fitness center, three swimming pools and medical diagnostic equipment.

The city also enjoys a strong, dynamic relationship with the Green Local School District. Albeit separate entities, Superintendent Mike Nutter and Mayor Norton believe that working together makes each stronger. In Green, the city and schools collaborate in unique ways including sharing facilities for parks and recreational programming, technology and even a central city/school administration building — each saving taxpayers money.

In the spring of 2011, the school district passed a levy with more than 60 percent of the voters supporting the school district, due in part to the district’s progressive commitment to reducing spending and the community’s commitment to strong schools.

“All told between these two facilities and other anticipated business expansions in Green, we anticipate an estimated 700 new jobs within three years,” says Norton.

Green is progressive. With strong city leadership, Green takes a progressive approach to conducting city business. Partnering with the Summit County Sheriff ’s Department, the Summit County Board of Health and the Summit County Building Department, city officials eliminate duplication of services that saves

“Many communities don’t have the kind of partnership between the city and schools that we have here in Green,” says Superintendent Nutter. “Sharing ideas and resources is the right thing to do for our entire city, and in turn, it makes us a stronger community.” www.akronlife.com

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weeeew In 2010, the Green Local School District was the top-ranked school district in Summit County and has achieved an “Excellent with Distinction” rating from the State of Ohio for the past three years. Green is also progressive in its commitment to aggressively manage infrastructure projects and diligently communicate with those residents and businesses most affected by construction. Since 2008, the city has employed the services of a construction communications liaison who works closely with those in any immediate construction area to ensure the least amount of disruption. This one-on-one communication doesn’t go unnoticed by residents or business owners, and combined with the city’s enhanced communications through its website, Facebook page (www.facebook.com/cityofgreenohio), e-newsletters, newsletter and local newspaper coverage, it’s hard not to know what’s going on in Green.

Green is promising. With new jobs, great schools and a strong community, Green couldn’t be more promising. Add in a fantastic, award-winning parks system, active youth sports programs and a variety of housing options, and you have a community that everyone can be proud to call home.

Green has been fortunate to continue to see growth in both residential and commercial investment. Many communities across the country haven’t been as fortunate. The current level of commercial investment in Green helps to support the community as a whole and allows Green to improve the quality of life for its residents.

“I look forward to seeing how Green continues to grow,” says Norton. “With our current prosperity, our progressive attitude and our promising future, I believe Green is already one of the best places to live in the country.”

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Five Hamlets Make Green’s History Rich

I

n the early 1800s, Green Township was a part of Stark County with five hamlets — Aultman to the southeast, Greensburg to the south, East Liberty to the northwest, Comet to the southwest and Myersville to the northeast. Today pieces of these hamlets still dot the city, giving residents glimpses of Green’s rich history.

During the past several years, the Green Historical Society has actively worked to document the history of the hamlets and their first settlers. One key in archiving Green’s history has been the successful partnership between the Green Historical Society and the City’s Historical Preservation Commission, which has resulted in the designation of several properties as local historical landmarks.

Today, there are eight local landmarks in Green including several homes of early settlers, two cemeteries and two former one-room schoolhouses. One of the most notable historical homes is the Levi Hartong Homestead, the only property in Green named to the National Registry of Historic Places, located within Southgate Park at 5300 Massillon Road. It includes a circa 1883 Pennsylvania-style farmhouse, barn, other agricultural outbuildings and the family cemetery of the Grable family — who were the first to farm the land before the Hartong family purchased it in 1859.

The Aultman Schoolhouse and the Lichtenwalter Schoolhouse are both

examples of late 1800s one-room schoolhouses. The Aultman School was converted into a single-family home in the early 1900s and is still owned by members of that original family.

Today, the Lichtenwalter Schoolhouse, relocated from land near the airport to Boettler Park in the late 1990s, is used for special programs by the Historical Society to teach schoolchildren and residents about life in Green in the 1800s.

The other historic properties include many unique architectural designs and histories. The Reverend Henry Heiss Homestead, a Greek revival home with a four bay façade, was home to the deacon of the Western Conference of the Evangelical Association. There are also two brick, high-style, Italianate Victorian farmhouses known as the Conrad Dillman and Aaron Swartz homes. The Conrad Dillman home

was once a stop for many Evangelical circuit riders who came through Green on their way to Canton in the early 1800s. And the Aaron Swartz home was built by Henry Heiss’ daughter and son-in-law.

The Greensburg Cemetery, which is still an active cemetery today, and the Klinefelter Cemetery are also listed as local landmarks.

The Klinefelter Cemetery was on land donated by Conrad Dillman to serve as a public cemetery — an early potter’s field — and the final resting place to many early settlers including several members of the Klinefelter family and Conrad Dillman.

The Green Historical Society has archived these stories and more on its website, www. greenhistoricalsociety.com. In addition, the Historical Society conducts several events each year, sharing the history of the local barns, homes and people who settled, influenced and lived in Green. The Green Historical Society meets quarterly at the John Torok Community Center in Green. Its final special event for the year is a presentation on one-room schoolhouses on Nov. 21, 2011 in Council Chambers, 1755 Town Park Blvd. at 7 p.m. The event is free to the public.

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Dedication to Parks Is Cornerstone of City of Green I

n 1992, when Green was incorporated as a city, there was only one six-acre park — the Green Community Park. Today, there are 10 city-owned parks with more than 530 acres of greenspace, playgrounds, hiking trails, sports fields and fishing ponds. In addition, more than 2,000 acres of water and land within the Portage Lakes State Park is within city limits.

When the city was incorporated, park creation and preservation were important to the authors of the City Charter, declaring a percentage of income tax revenues to be used for park capital improvements within the original charter.

“It was because of this commitment to parks that the city was able to acquire and create the parks we have today,” says Mike Elkins, parks and recreation superintendent.

Green’s largest park is Southgate Park — adjacent to and accessible through Boettler Park.

It’s a nature park with more than five miles of hiking trails, a nine-hole disc golf course and three fishing ponds. The park is also

home to the Levi Hartong Homestead, the only property in Green currently listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. The homestead includes a standard Pennsylvaniastyle barn, which is home to the Summit County Sherriff ’s patrol horses; Grable family cemetery; and a farm house with Eastlake design elements. The homestead is an important link to Green’s early agricultural roots and is now preserved within the city’s park system.

In 2010, what began as a simple letter to the mayor became a community-wide project to create a new veterans memorial to recognize the service and sacrifices of those who have served and protected our country. On Nov. 11, 2010, more than 2,000 people solemnly dedicated the city’s new Veterans Memorial.

The project took only five months to build and was supported by more than $200,000 in private individual and corporate donations.

Boettler Park, the city’s most notable park, opened in 1997 and serves as the location for many of the city’s special events including its annual FreedomFest, held the last Saturday in June; and art-A-palooza, a fine art show produced by the City of Green and the Green Arts Council held the last Saturday in August.

“Boettler Park is our most used park and on any given day in the summer, the parking lot is full of cars,” says Elkins. “This park has so many features — the picturesque pond, a

one-mile handicap accessible walking trail, two pavilions, two playground areas, tennis and basketball courts and soccer fields, vibrant wetlands and a historic one-room schoolhouse — which bring people of all ages to the park.”

In addition to Boettler Park, many of the city parks serve as home to the more than 3,000 practices and games of youth sports including soccer, football, lacrosse, baseball and softball throughout the year. Spring Hill Sports Complex boasts five regulation-sized soccer/lacrosse fields. However, Fortuna Drive, which leads up to Spring Hill, received some special attention as a stand-in for a Seattle soapbox derby track in the Akron-based movie, “25 Hill.”

The other key sports parks include Greensburg Park, with its four baseball fields, picnic pavilion and playground; Ariss Park, with two flag football fields, one practice area and three full-sized tackle fields; Kreighbaum Park, with two softball fields; and East Liberty Park, with tennis and basketball courts, a picnic shelter and children’s play area.

“Our parks have come a long way in the past 20 years from acquiring land to developing them into active recreation areas for all residents,” says Elkins.

Learn more about Green’s parks at www.cityofgreen.org/parks.

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october 2011

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CUYAHOGAFALLS LIFE ALONG THE CROOKED RIVER

for women 2011

volume 9 / issue 7

THE MEANING OF [A QUALITY] LIFE CUYAHOGA FALLS CELEBRATES THE BIG 200 ENJOYING THE GREAT OUTDOORS

& A special supplement to

A special supplement to akronlife magazine

MY SYMPHONY

Living

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Vo l u m e 59 Issue 1

From giraffes to flash mobs to stilt-walkers, this monthly street party is bringing businesses, money and the masses back downtown.

John S. Knight Center - Akron, Ohio

PRESENTING PARTNER:

The quarterly program of the Akron Symphony Orchestra

A First-Timer’s Guide to First Friday

February 25 - 27, 2011 Photo by John Ashley Photography

Trips for the Adventure Junkie / Mary Myers talks serial killers

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A special supplement to akronlife

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Bye-bye body hair? p14 Build a Better You p60 Inside/Out Design p74 Flour(less) Power: Going Gluten-Free p96

Canton Arts District Studio & Gallery Guide

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33 Early Romantice November 6, 2010

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89

amish country

by Carol Steffey

Wine and Cheese, Please

/ Look no further than Ohio Amish Country for great, local wines (and award-winning cheese). /

>> If you’re planning a trip to Ohio’s Amish Country, you might want to add “wine tasting” to your itinerary — since several wineries call the region home. >> Whether you like an occasional taste or are a wine connoisseur, you’ll be amazed at the variety of wines available. And if you like a little cheese with your wine, well, you’re in the right place, since you’ll find many award-winning cheese factories in the same region.

To get to there, head south on Interstate 77, get off at the Dover exit and head west.

Just a short way down State Route 39, you’ll come across the exit for Breitenbach Wine Cellars. Started in 1980, this winery is Ohio’s second largest winery and offers about 40 different wines. Here, you’ll find red, white, blush and fruit wines. One of their most unique wines is the dessert wine, Dandelion Wine. But if you prefer a dry wine, check out their Cabernet and Chardonnay.

Just across the street from Breitenbach Wine Cellars is Broad Run Cheese House.

Established in 1933, it’s one of the oldest cheese factories in Ohio. And if you stop in before 11 a.m., you can watch the cheesemaking process. During your visit, stop by Swiss Heritage Winery, which opened in 2003 in the same building. The winery currently offers 16 wines (most of them sweet), with plans to introduce two more wines this fall.

If you head further west on State Route 39, you’ll come to Heini’s Gourmet Market, where you’ll find more than 200 specialty

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Take a Guided Tour You might worry about following this wine-cheeseand-chocolate trail, taste testing and then driving.

If you think you’ll be in no condition to drive and/or you can’t get anyone to agree to be your designated driver (since you all want to taste test!), consider staying at Garden Gate GetA-Way Bed & Breakfast near Millersburg, which has a tour bus that takes guests on wine-and-cheese tours. During the colder, winter months, they offer a Saturday afternoon wine tour to weekend guests, and in warmer weather, they offer a 10-hour tour that stops at the wineries mentioned in this article, which includes both lunch and dinner on the road. The all-inclusive price gives you transportation, wine tasting, souvenir wine glasses, winery tours and meals.

foods, Heini’s Cheese and many Ohio wines — including wines produced in the West and Southwest parts of the state. One unusual activity at the market: You can make your own cheese ball to take home and enjoy with the wine you purchase. Also, on Saturday afternoons, they have entertainment, and throughout the year, offer various cooking classes.

When you travel further west on State Route 39 to the town of Walnut Creek, you’ll find

october 2011

Coblentz Chocolate Company, the perfect complement to one of the dessert wines you just bought. And if you visit on a weekday, you can watch chocolate being made through the viewing gallery.

Follow State Route 515 from Walnut Creek to U.S. 62, traveling toward Wilmot to Gateway Place. This wine-tasting showroom features wines from more than 50 Ohio wineries, along with some international wines.

Here, they carry everything from dry to sweet,

including some very different wines. Have you ever tasted watermelon wine? How about a wine called “Foreplay”? Shopping here is an experience.

If you head over toward the Coshocton area, check out Heritage Vineyard Winery in Warsaw — the newest of the wineries mentioned in this article. This winery carries a variety of estate-grown American and French hybrid wines. And in the summer months, you can sign up for a cookout — where you grill your own steak, and the side dishes and a bottle of wine are provided.

Next, head east on US 36 from the Roscoe Village area, and you’ll come upon Ravens Glenn Winery. (This is my favorite winery.)

The wine-tasting bar has very knowledgeable, friendly staff to help you choose your wine, and there’s also a restaurant — which sits on the Tuscarawas River — offering Tuscanstyle food. Stop here around dinner for an excellent meal. If dry wines appeal to you, be sure to try White October and Cabernet Sauvignon. On the other hand, some of their best-selling wines are the sweeter table wines: Ravens Rouge, White Raven and White Zinfandel. Their secret for great wine? They

have a rare filtration system that not only helps to create some of the best-tasting wines you’ll ever drink, but is “headache sufferer” friendly — i.e. if you tend to get “wine headaches,” you probably won’t get them from these wines.

Almost around the corner from Ravens Glenn is Rainbow Hills Vineyards. You’ll think you’re traveling to the middle of nowhere when you take a little township road to get there, but the tasty wine and hospitality are worth it. Here, they have several outside decks where you can purchase a bread-andcheese tray, along with some wine, and relax overlooking a fountain pond.

So the next time you’re looking for a good bottle of wine, look no further than your own backyard — and explore Ohio Amish Country wines. /Writer Carol Steffey is the owner of Garden Gate Get-A-Way Bed & Breakfast in Millersburg, OH. Comments?

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

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91

good eats

restaurants / notable food & drink / Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices.

250 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-376-0600 $ B, L, D, T Aladdin’s Eatery Outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-535-0110; First and Main streets (Hudson) 330-656-0560 $$$ L, D, A, T Al’s Corner Restaurant Old-world comfort food served cafeteria style. Cabbage rolls and sausage made locally are a favorite. 545 W. Tuscarawas Ave. (Barberton) 330-753-7216 $$ L, T Angello’s Historic building with an Italian neighborhood feel. 4905 Tuscarawas St. W. (Canton) 330-477-1486 $$ L, D, A, T Arcadia Grille Authentic Italian cuisine with pasta and chops. Breakfast served Sat. and Sun. A local favorite for more than 85 years. 321 Court Ave. (Canton: Downtown) 330-454-6055 $$ B, L, D, A Arnie’s West Branch Steak House Casual dining, specializing in steak, ribs and seafood. Closed Sun. 5343 State Route 14 (Ravenna) 330-297-1717 $$$ D, A, T Babushka’s Kitchen Old World food with a Polish influence. Handmade fresh kielbasa, stuffed cabbage, pierogi, paprikash and more. 9199 Olde Eight Rd. (Northfield Center) 330-468-0402 $$ L, D, T Barley House Hot and cold deli sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, soups and more. 222 S. Main St. (Akron) 330-374-0925 $$ L, D, A, T Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Fairlawn Hilton. 3180 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-5577 $$$$ L, D, A, T Belgrade Gardens Famous for fried chicken and home-style cooking. 401 E. State St. (Barberton) 330745-0113; 3476 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-3396 $$$ 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) 330-678-3000 $$ L, D, A, T Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood. 137 Court Ave. SW (Canton: Downtown) 330-453-8424 $$$$ 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 Bianca’s Italian Ristorante & Lounge Traditional Italian, juicy steaks and fresh seafood.

4284 Beverly Hills Dr. (Brunswick) 330-225-0927 $$$ L, D, A, T Blue Canyon Creative American cuisine in six nature-inspired dining environments. Sunday brunch buffet. 8960 Wilcox Dr. (Twinsburg) 330-486-2583 $$$$ L, D, A, T

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Blue Door Cafe and Bakery Sandwiches, quiche, soup, crepes and omelets. Open Wed.-Sat., 7 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sun., 7 a.m.-3 p.m. 1970 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-926-9774 $$ B, L, T Bombay Sitar Fine Indian cuisine. Food is natural and prepared fresh daily. 4633 Belden Village St. NW (North Canton) 330-493-0671 $$ L, D, T Bricco Unique pizza and pasta. 1 W. Exchange St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T The Cabin Upscale Italian within the Mario’s International Spa and Inn complex. 35 E. Garfield Rd. (Aurora) 330-562-9171 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Cafe Tandoor Casual atmosphere, Indian cuisine.

Closed Mon. 96 Barrington Town Center (Aurora) 330562-5334 $$$ 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 Cajun Dave’s at the Water Street Tavern. Specializes in Cajun classics, homestyle southern foods, Ohio grass-fed hamburgers and homemade pizza. 138 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-474-0800 $$ L, D, A, T Capri Pizza 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) 330-753-8494 $$ L, D, A, T Casa Del Rio Mexican dining. 839 High St. (Wadsworth) 330-335-4001 $$ L, D, A, T China Gourmet Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin and Cantonese dishes. Known for General Tso’s Chicken.

1971 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-867-8838 $$$ L, D, A, T Chowder House Café Salads, soups, sandwiches and clam chowder. Bring your own wine and beer ($5 corkage fee). Open 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 Cipriano’s Downtown Casual Italian dining and cocktails. Specialties include veal and pasta dishes. Closed Sun. 161 N. Chestnut St. (Ravenna) 330-298-9773 $$$ L, D, A, T Coopers in the Valley American-style classics including soups, burgers and wings. Most entrées made from scratch. 1824 Merriman Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-865-9510 $ L, D, A Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 57 E. Market St. (Akron) 330-253-1234 $$ L, D, A, T, V

october 2011

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.

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 $$ L, D, A, T Crooked River Grill Full-service catering and restaurant. Ribs are a specialty. 403 N. Main St. (Munroe Falls) 330-688-9911 $$$ L, D, A, T D’Agneses Tomato Grill Wide array of entrée choices. Sunday brunch. Catering available. 106 First St. (Hudson) 330-342-3771 $$$$ L, D, A, T D’Agneses Trattoria and Café Northern and Southern Italian cuisine made in-house with fresh ingredients. Sunday brunch only. 566 White Pond Dr. (Akron) 234-678-3612 $$$$ L, D, A, T

Go to akronlife.com to view more area restaurants.

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 $$$ L, D, A, T Dave’s Cosmic Subs Sign the walls at this sub stop, featuring psychedelic and music memorabilia decor. 186 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-342-5666; 1176 N. Court St. (Medina) 330-721-8675 $$ L, D, T Delanie’s Neighborhood Grille Comfort food, sporty atmosphere and full bar. 67 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-630-2888 $$$ L, D, A, T Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970. Specializes in “Family Style” shish kabobs. 204 12th St. NW (Canton) 330-456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-762-5877 $ B, L, A, T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, authentic 1950s-style décor. All steaks are handcut, and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No credit cards Dontino’s Restaurant Home-style Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T 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 $$$ L, D, A, T Eddy’s Deli and Restaurant Try the bananasplit waffle, a corned beef sandwich or chicken paprikash. 2655 Oakwood Dr. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-7489; 4581 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-346-0551 $$ 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) 330869-3000 $$$ L, D, A, T El Campesino Authentic Mexican cuisine. 4360 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-5561; 9169 State Route 14 (Streetsboro) 330-626-9777; 4048 Lincolnway E. (Massillon) 330-477-8731 $$ L, D, A, T El Rincon Authentic Mexican cuisine. 1485 S. Arlington St. (Akron: South) 330-785-3724; 720 S. Main St. (North Canton) 330-497-2229 $$ L, D, A, T Erie Station Grille Features such classics as baby-back ribs seared with homemade BBQ sauce and prime rib of beef au jus. 70 East Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-634-9900. $$$ L, D, A, T The Eye Opener Diner-style menu features jams and jellies from Crooked River Herb Farm. Upscale décor includes photos of historic Akron. 1688 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-867-1114 $$ B, L, D, T Farmer Boy Restaurant House specialties include Greek souvlaki, broaster chicken and delicious desserts. 1324 Canton Rd. (Akron: East) 330-7844052 $$ B, L, D, T Firehouse Grill & Pub Watch sports and enjoy steaks and buffalo wings. 1677 E. Market St. (Akron: East) 330-733-6279; 2727 Manchester Rd. (Akron) 330-848-2426; 2437 Canton Rd. (Akron) 330-699-3616; 4809 S. Prospect St. (Rootstown) 330-325-0706; 76 West Ave. (Tallmadge) 330-6349967 $$ L, D, A Fisher’s Café & Pub American cuisine. 1607 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-657-2651 $$ L, D, A, T Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Aged beef, chops, fresh seafood, salad and more than 100 wines by the glass. 4000 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330-670-5200 $$$$ D, A, T Flip Side Gourmet, Ohio-raised beef burgers with chef-crafted condiments, toppings and sides; free-range organic chicken breast sandwiches; and market fresh salads. Craft beer on tap. 49 Village Way (Hudson) 330-655-3547 $$ L, D, A, T Fred’s Diner Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch. 930 Home Ave. (Akron: North) 330-535-3733 $ B, L, T The French Coffee Shop French cuisine at reasonable prices. French onion soup, chicken crepes with béchamel sauce, cinnamon-sugar dessert crepes. Closed Sun., Mon., Wed. 1911 Bailey Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-3987 $$ L, D, T The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building. Fantastic desserts. 201 Park Centre Dr. (Wadsworth) 330-334-3663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Gasoline Alley Eclectic menu featuring pizza, salads, sandwiches and sauerkraut balls. 870 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-2670 $$$ L, D, A, T

big bite

by Tom Lukes

G is for Garlic >>

I’ll admit it. There have been times in my life that I’ve been tempted to yell out, “Just add the garlic, and nobody gets hurt!”

“When you can smell garlic coming out of your skin, you know you’re healthy,” said Ciriello with a smile.

I love to eat — especially well-seasoned meals made with fresh ingredients. After years of gardening organically and experimenting with cooking, there are a few favorite plants that I look forward to harvesting every year. Garlic is one of them.

It’s truly a food of the gods because of its flavor and health benefits (not to mention, its ability to ward off vampires).

He told me the recipe for their white sauce pizza came about after much experimentation with his uncle.

Although he couldn’t share the actual recipe, he did say they use fresh onions, garlic, butter, oregano, black pepper, parmesan and Romano cheeses, and heavy cream. In addition, their crust is made from special dough that goes through a two-day preparation. (Finding the right quantities and culinary techniques to replicate their pizza is up to those of us interested in taking on the challenge.)

Ten years ago, I started to grow hard-neck garlic, since the bulbs are large with only four to six oversized, intensely flavored cloves. Because I use it in much of my cooking, my family started giving me garlic-themed gifts, including one of my favorite t-shirts — with “Garlicoholic” scrawled across the front.

As we all know, going out to eat is sometimes a hit-and-miss venture. So when I have a memorable meal at a restaurant, I find myself analyzing the dish in order to try making it at home using fresh ingredients from my garden. One such meal is the white sauce cheese pizza with extra garlic chunks (no surprise there) made by Luigi’s Restaurant. This locally owned family business at 105 N. Main St. in Akron has been working to perfect pizza-making along with other Italian cuisine since 1949. I’ve really enjoyed their pizza over the years, so when I got the opportunity to see how they made it — and to bring along some of my own garlic — I jumped at the chance.

I met with Tony Ciriello, Luigi’s general manager (and very gracious host) and learned that he and I share a similar love for garlic.

When we went to the kitchen to make the pizza, it was truly poetry in motion. They had a rhythm of a team of professionals at the top of their game, which is a complete necessity considering they make hundreds of pizzas daily and over 600 a day on weekends. And that’s in addition to their other entrées.

It was a great behind-thescenes experience and just served to reinforce the fact that if I want a really great pizza with lots of garlic, Luigi’s can meet the challenge every time.

Now that’s food for thought. / Tom Lukes is a communications consultant, urban farmer and cook who is certain that, someday, garlic will be embraced as a solution to world peace. He lives in Cuyahoga Falls with his wife and three cats who find him occasionally amusing.

Comments?

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

www.akronlife.com

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uncorked

by Rick Rodger

entwine

Sonoma County, California A collaboration between Wente Vineyards, California and Food Network

>> To “entwine” means to twine with, about, around or together. And that’s exactly what entwine wines are all about — the coming together of two of the country’s leading food and wine pioneers: the Food Network and Wente Vineyards.

This new line of wine was created with the 100 million households the network reaches in mind, as well as consumers across America — to take the mystery out of wine. Food Network identified world-class American wineries and chose Wente Vineyards because of the quality of their wine, as well as their innate understanding of wine consumers and shared vision of the new portfolio.

Wente will source grapes from 3,000 acres of their family-owned estate of sustainably farmed vineyards.

Founded in 1883, Wente Vineyards is one of the oldest continuously owned and operated familyrun wineries in California (and the first to produce Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay in California).

The winery is now run by fourth- and fifthgeneration Wente family members.

Fifth-generation winemaker Karl Wente has worked with Food Network to develop and blend wines that are delicious on their own yet also marry easily and beautifully with a wide range of food pairings. entwine Cabernet Sauvignon is rich, fruity and herbaceous — like eating raspberry jam off of a sprig of thyme. It’s perfect for backyard barbecues Geisen Haus Generous portions, great beer selection. 6955 Promway Ave. NW (North Canton) 330-499-9116 $$$ L, D, A, T Gervasi Vineyard & Italian Bistro 55-acre estate, winery and bistro, outdoor seating, six-acre lake with swans and outdoor bocce courts.

Committed to fresh ingredients and the locavore movement. Closed Mon. Lunch Sat. and Sun. 1700 55th St. NE (Canton) 330-497-1000 $$$ L, D, A Golden Dragon Chinese fare. Also offers traditional Japanese cooking and sushi. 1634 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-1109 $$ L, D, A, T The Grill Room at Martin University Center Casual upscale, sandwiches, salads and entrées. 105 Fir Hill (Akron: Downtown) 330-9727711 $$ L, 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; 1820 W. State St. (Alliance) 330-8216665; 404 E. Lincoln Way (Minerva) 330-868-7824; 500 W. Main St. (Louisville) 330-875-9700 $ B, L, D, A, T 94

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Gus’ Chalet A North Hill institution, popular meeting place for Akron area politicos. Serves variety of dishes, from Greek favorites to standard American fare. 938 E. Tallmadge Ave. (Akron: North) 330-6332322 $$$ L, D, A, T Hattie’s Café & Gifts Training and vocational site for people with disabilities. Features coffee, homemade pastries, ice cream, soups, salads and sandwiches. 164 N. Main St. (Hudson) 330-6550044; 520 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-5351779; 60 S. High St. (at Akron Library) 330-7620853; 166 S. High St. (at Akron municipal building) 330-252-0556; 1 S. High St. (at Akron Art Museum) 330-376-9186 $ B, L, D, T Henry Wahner’s Restaurant An old favorite across from KSU. Complete German menu. Germanstyle bar with beers served in ice-cold steins. 1609 E. Main St. (Kent) 330-678-4055 $$$$ D, A, T No credit cards Hibachi Japan Steak House Japanese Hibachi-style cooking, great steak and sushi. 2251 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-3333 $$$ L, D, A, T

october 2011

and entwines with: blue cheese, burgers, cheese straws, creamed vegetables, roasted carrots, sautéed mushrooms, and steak and potatoes. entwine Chardonnay is easy-drinking, with crisp fruit — think toast spread with homemade apple butter. It’s perfect for a casual night with friends and entwines with: cream sauces, goat cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, potato chips, roast chicken and shellfish. entwine Merlot is juicy and mouthwatering — think mid-summer plums and cherries with a hint of black tea. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and entwines with: grilled pork, mac and cheese, meatloaf, pizza, salami, tomato sauce and wild salmon. entwine Pinot Grigio is crisp, refreshing and citrusy — like a green apple drizzled with lime juice and honey. It’s perfect for nice evenings out on the porch and entwines with: Asian takeout, guacamole, ham, hors d’oeuvres, salty cheese, tropical fruit and whitefish. entwine wines are available at Acme Fresh Foods, Buehler’s Fresh Market, Giant Eagle, Papa Joe’s and other wine retailers throughout Northeast Ohio. They retail for $12.99.

Visit them at www.entwine-wines.com. / Rick Rodger is a manager at Heidelberg Distributing Company.

Hook, Line & Drinkers Try HLD’s famous Grilled Sugar Cane Shrimp Skewer or their fresh-cut fries tossed with Jamaican spice, lime zest, salt and cracked pepper. Seafood, burgers, salads, grilled menu items, desserts. 530 Portage Lakes Dr. (Akron) 330-864-6653 $$ L, D, A, T Hopocan Gardens Barberton-style chicken.

4396 W. Hopocan Ave. (Barberton) 330-825-9923 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards House of Hunan Common favorites to spicy specialties. Oriental décor. 12 E. Exchange St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-253-1888; 2717 W. Market St. (Fairlawn Town Centre) 330-864-8201; 18 Public Square (Medina) 330-722-1899 $$ L, D, A, T 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) 330666-7777 $$ B, L, D, A, T Hyde Park Grille New York-style upscale steakhouse. 4073 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-6706303 $$$$ D, A, T, V

Inferno Gourmet Burger Bar Build your perfect fire-grilled burger with a variety of meat, buns, cheeses and toppings. Also custom hot dogs, milkshakes and root beer floats. 1100 N. Court St. (Medina) 330-764-4060 $$ L, D, A, T Ivan’s Diner Menu includes sandwiches, burgers, subs and salads. Open Mon.-Sat. 2927 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-836-3553 $$ L, T Ken Stewart’s Grille Widely recognized as one of Akron’s finest. Upscale, eclectic cuisine. Emphasis on steak and seafood. 1970 W. Market St. (Akron: West) 330-867-2555 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Ken Stewart’s Lodge Casual, Adirondack-style atmosphere, eclectic cuisine. 1911 N. ClevelandMassillon Rd. (Bath) 330-666-8881 $$$$ D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Tre Belle Italian atmosphere and authentic cuisine. Specialties include an antipasto bar, big drinks and an extensive wine list.

1911 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Bath) 330-6669990 $$$ D, A, V, T Kennedy’s BBQ Pit-smoked ham, pork, beef, turkey, pulled pork sandwiches topped with cabbage relish, bean soup, chili and Troyer’s pie by the slice.

1420 7th St. NW (Canton) 330-454-0193 $ L, D, 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 $$ L, D, A, T The Leopard Eclectic menu with American, Asian, French and Italian influences. Features seven-course chef’s table, prix fixe. 600 N. Aurora Rd. (Aurora) 330562-2111 $$$$ D, A, T, V The Lockview Traditional American favorites.

Fresh menu with spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T 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 $$$ L, D, T Luchita’s Authentic Mexican cuisine with a four-star rating. 36 Park Lane (Hudson) 330-655-0059 $$$ L, D, A, T, V Lucia’s Steakhouse Fresh seafood, signature garlic butter-topped steaks, Italian favorites and Lucia classics, like homemade crab cakes or cubanella and long, hot peppers. Closed 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 awardwinning pizza. Voted Best Pizza and Best Italian Restaurant by akronlife readers. Party trays and

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

2697 Manchester Rd. (Akron: South) 330-753-5983 $$ B, L, D, T The Main Street Grill A unique concept in in-store dining. The pancake special starts your day off right. 175 Great Oaks Trail in Buehler’s Foods (Wadsworth) 330-336-3588 $$ B, L, D, T Main Wok Fast Chinese cuisine. 2855 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-865-8885 $$ L, D, T Accepts Discover and MasterCard Maize Valley Winery Sample wine by bottle or glass. Taste 100+ types of cheeses. Appetizers and sandwiches. Full dinner menu on Saturday evenings.

6193 Edison St. NE (Hartville) 330-877-8344 $$ L, D, A Mandarin House Chinese and South Asian entrees. 3201 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-9298157 $$ L, D, A, T Marcelita’s Southwestern atmosphere, guacamole made fresh daily, authentic Mexican fare. 7774 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-650-1121 $$ L, D, A, T Mariachi Locos Fast, authentic Mexican cuisine.

2215 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: East) 330-733-4065; 4161 Steels Point (Stow) 330-922-3307 $$ L, D, A, T Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s Best Red Sauce. Known for endless ice cream options. 780 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330-253-1511 $$ L, D Mavis Winkle’s Irish Pub 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) 330-877-6477 $ B, L, T Melrose Grille Specialties include pulled pork, beef briskets, grilled pizzas and smoked foods.

Sunday brunch. 294 Pearl Rd. (Brunswick) 330-2255576 $$$ L, D, A, T Menches Brothers Restaurant Inventors of the hamburger and ice cream cone. In Akron since 1901. 3700 Massillon Rd. (Green) 330-896-2288 $$ B, L, D, A, T Metro Burger Over 33 million combinations of burgers. Veggie, chicken and turkey burgers also available. 845 W. Market St. (Highland Square) 330253-8743 $$ L, D, A, T Michael’s AM Casual, family-style dining. Full breakfast and lunch menu featuring sandwiches and daily specials.1562 Akron-Peninsula Rd. (Merriman Valley) 330-929-3447 $ B, L, T No credit cards Mike’s Place Unique atmosphere, extensive menu.

1700 S. Water St. (Kent) 330-673-6501 $ B, L, D, A, T Milich’s Village Inn Finger-lickin’ chicken prepared Barberton style. The tenders are a twist on the famous recipe. 4444 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Norton) 330-825-4553 $$ L, D, T Moe’s Hip, intimate atmosphere featuring a diverse chalkboard menu that changes monthly. Martinis, cocktails and extensive selection of wines by the glass. Closed Sun. 2385 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-6600 $$$$ L, D, A, T 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) 330252-0272 $ 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, awardwinning barbecued ribs, extensive menu. 4118 Belden Village St. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330493-8239 $$$ L, D, A, T Mustard Seed Market Café Located on mezzanine overlooking natural foods market. Menu reflects same strict standards as the market, with naturally raised meats, free-range poultry and foods free from artificial flavors, colorings and preservatives.

Full bar, juice bar and espresso. Live music on weekends. Sunday brunch. 3885 W. Market St. (Montrose) 330-666-7333 $$$ L, D, T New Era Restaurant A mainstay of the Akron area. Heavenly paprikash and other Hungarian favorites. 10 Massillon Rd. (Akron: East) 330-7840087 $$ B, L, D, A, T Nick Anthe’s An established tradition in Akron’s North Hill. Halibut is a favorite. Steaks, lamb chops and rack of lamb are also popular. 1008 N. Main St. (Akron: North) 330-929-6425 $$$$ L, D, A, T Nicolinni’s Ristorante Traditional Italian recipes by way of Youngstown. Pasta, veal, chicken, steak and seafood. 85 W. Montrose Ave. (Akron) 330664-0808 $$$ L, D, A, T 91 Wood Fired Oven Upscale casual, West Coast atmosphere. Pizza and pasta are specialties.

Patio dining. 1983 Easton St. NW in Washington Square Plaza (North Canton) 330-498-9191; 5570 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-497-9111 $$$ D, A, T Northside Bar food and live music six nights a week in an historic, turn-of-the-century saloon. Intimate jazz lounge featuring fine wine and spirits. 111 N. Main St. (Akron) 330-434-0611 $$$ L, D, A, T

One of Akron’s Best Casual Restaurants %UHDN WKH &KDLQV /RFDO &KHI 2ZQHG 2SHUDWHG

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ZZZ KXGVRQVUHVWDXUDQW FRP www.akronlife.com

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small bite

New Additions

Inferno Gourmet Burger Bar Build your perfect fire-grilled burger with a variety of meat, buns, cheeses and toppings.

Also custom hot dogs, milkshakes and root beer floats. 1100 N. Court St. (Medina) 330-764-4060 Ivan’s Diner Menu includes sandwiches, burgers, subs and salads. Open Mon.-Sat. 2927 W. Market St. (Akron) 330-836-3553 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 Luca’s New York Style Pizza Pizza, calzones, stromboli, cheese steaks and subs. 3451 Darrow Rd. (Stow) 330-688-9595 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

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The Office Metropolitan bistro and lounge with eclectic ambiance and timeless decor.

778 N. Main St. (Akron) 330-376-9550 $$$ L, D, A, T On Tap Relaxed atmosphere, great gyros and Greek food. 3263 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-922-0464; 2905 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-725-1972; 4396 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330686-5359; 3997 Medina Rd. (Akron) 330668-1116 $$ L, 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 $$$$ L, D, A Pad Thai Elegant restaurant, extensive menu of traditional Thai dishes. 3545 Brookwall Dr. (Fairlawn) 330-668-9981; 5657 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-650-9998 $$$ L, D, A, T Pammie’s Get your fill of soul food, ribs, chicken and fish. 1364 Copley Rd. (Akron) 330-475-0406 $$ L, D, T Pancho & Lefty’s Popular neighborhood cantina. 3254 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-686-6781 $$ L, D, A, 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) 330252-1995 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Bear’s Italian Restaurant Authentic, homemade Italian food. 4990 Dressler Rd. NW (Canton: Belden Village) 330493-0090 $$$ 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 $$$ L, D, A, T Parasson’s Good pasta. Great for family dining. 501 N. Main St. (Akron: North) 330-376-2117; 959 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 330-724-9375; 3983 Darrow Rd. (Stow) 330688-3650; 364 Wooster Rd. N. (Barberton) 330-753-2264 $$ L, D, A, T Piatto Novo Authentic Italian fare including steaks and seafood, coupled with a breathtaking view of the Cuyahoga River. 1989 Front St. at the Sheraton (Cuyahoga Falls) 330920-7530 $$$$ 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) 330-535-2276 $ L, D, A, T Prime/93 Appetizers, specials, hand-cut and aged steaks, chops and fresh seafood.

Chef-driven restaurant. Entertainment on weekends. 4315 Manchester Rd. (Akron: South) 330-644-2239 $$$$ L, D, A, T Pufferbelly Ltd. Located in historic Kent railroad depot. 152 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330673-1771 $$$ L, D, A, T The Rail High-quality Ohio beef used for burgers. Top with specialty condiments like truffle butter or sunflower-basil pesto. october 2011

Veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, milkshakes, and local and craft beers.

3265 W. Market St. in Summit Mall (Akron) 330-864-7245 $$ L, D, A, T Raj Mahal Traditional Indian cuisine with excellent lamb and chicken curry dishes. Daily lunch buffet. 2035 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-926-0795 $$$ 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 $$ 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 $$$$ L, D, A, T Rosewood Grill Seasonally inspired with the fresh appeal of a local farmer’s market. Happy hour, Mon.-Fri., 3-6 p.m. 36 E. Streetsboro St. (Hudson) 330-656-2100 $$$$ L (Fri/Sat only), D, A, T Rush Hour Bar & Grill American menu.

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

4895 State Rd. (Peninsula) 330-923-2665 $$$$ L, D, A, T Rusty Nail Casual atmosphere serving quality steak, seafood and chicken. 7291 State Route 43 (Kent) 330-673-2297 $$$ D, A, T Saffron Patch 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 Samira Chef-inspired entrées, casual comfort foods and tavern-style appetizers. Closed Sun. 2291 Riverfront Pkwy. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330923-4233 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V 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 $$ L, D, A Siamone’s Restaurant Specializing in Thai and Cambodian cuisine. 2215 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron) 330-733-5070 $$$ L, D, A, T Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition. Drive-in burgers, fast fare.

2781 W. Market St. (Fairlawn) 330-836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Rd. (Green) 330-896-9350; 3296 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-721-8561 $ 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, slow-cooked meals, beer-flavored brats and more. Menu changes weekly. Specials offer unique flavors and pairings. Closed weekends.

30 N. High St (Akron: Downtown) 330-3767839 $ 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) 330-273-4600; 2629 Bailey Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-929-8498; 3465 S. Arlington Rd. (Green) 330-899-9477; 2930 Medina Rd. (Medina) 330-721-9567; 3985 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-670-0811; 3916 Cleveland-Massillon Rd. (Norton) 330706-9920; 9070 State Rt. 14 (Streetsboro) 330-626-2750 $ T Sugo Modern Italian Bistro The newest restaurant operated by Chef Louis Prpich, proprietor of Chowder House Café.

Sugo offers a seasonal menu, bar menu, wine dinners and nightly fixed-price 4course dinners that include wine, coffee and dessert. Closed Sun. and Mon. 2485 State Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 234-678-7153 $$$$ L, D, A, T Swensons Drive In Voted best cheeseburger in America. Signature burger is the Galley Boy. 658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave. (Akron: North) 330-928-8515; 40 S. Hawkins Ave. (Akron: West) 330-864-8416; 4466 Kent Rd. (Stow) 330-678-7775; 40 Brookmont Rd. (Montrose) 330-665-1858; 5815 Wales Ave. (Jackson Twp.) 330-833-5454; 1558 N. Main St. (North Canton) 330-499-9494 $ L, D, T Taco Tontos Funky, college atmosphere featuring authentic Mexican cuisine made from scratch. Good selection of vegetarian dishes. 123 Franklin Ave. (Kent) 330-6770223 $$ 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) 330452-6844; 107 S. Main (Magnolia) 330-8669344 $ L, D, T Tai Wah Popular area Chinese takeout, dine in also. Nice lunch buffet. 5835 Darrow Rd. (Hudson) 330-528-0888 $$ L, D, A, T Tangier Banquet and Events Center Occasionally featuring live entertainment from around the country.

Elaborate décor. Quality steaks and seafood.

532 W. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330376-7171, 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 $$ L, D, T Tequila Pancho’s Many flavors of margaritas. 5893 Akron-Cleveland Rd. (Boston Heights) 330-342-9401 $$ L, D, A, T 3 Point Upscale casual American dining with a gourmet twist. Hand-cut steaks, pastas, and fresh chicken and seafood. Craft beers from around the world, boutique wine list. 45 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-535-6410 $$$ L, D, A, T, V 356th Fighter Group World War IItheme restaurant, casual fine dining, locally owned and operated. 4919 Mt. Pleasant Rd. (North Canton) 330-494-3500, 800-9942662 $$$ L, D, A, T Thyme the Restaurant Fine dining.

Contemporary cuisine with worldly influences, served in an upscale, modern setting. 716 N. Court St. (Medina) 330-674-4114 $$$$ L, D, A, T

Tim’s Pizzeria and Pub Casual, sit-down restaurant serving pizza, pasta, homemade soups, sandwiches and desserts.

Open for lunch only on weekends. 2823 Bailey Rd. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-928-1530 $$ D, A, T Tito’s Mexican Grill Dining room features wooden chairs and tables handcarved in Mexico. Run by the owners of El Rincon on South Arlington. Great meals and even greater margaritas. 25 Ghent Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-835-9801 $$ L, D, A, T 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) 330745-6063 $$ 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 To Go Market Adjacent to the catering offices. Casual comfort food menu that changes weekly.

2730 Front St. (Cuyahoga Falls) 330-923-9964 $$ B, L, D, A, T Trackside Grille at Quaker Square Train-themed restaurant with three actual railroad cars inside. 135 S. Broadway St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-2534541 $$ L, D, T Twigs Diner Don’t let the small exterior fool you. There’s plenty of room inside. Everything from burgers to breakfast specials. 334 31st St. NW (Norton) 330-825-1016 $ B, L, T No credit cards

Urban Eats - A Pop Art Café Serves coffee, breakfast and lunch. Open M-F, 8 am-4 pm. 51 E. Market St. (Akron: Downtown) 330310-7135 $ B, L, A, V Vaccaro’s Trattoria One of the area’s best-kept Italian secrets. 1000 Ghent Rd. (Bath) 330-666-6158 $$$$ L, D, A, T Valley Café Owned by a five-star gourmet chef. Features friendly service, dishes made from scratch and famous cabbage soup. 1212 Weathervane Lane (Merriman Valley) 330865-0101 $ B, L, T The Valley Inn This one-time country roadhouse has been transformed into a family hot-spot. The prime rib is gigantic. 15004 Portage St. (Doylestown) 330-658-9859 $$$ L, D, A, T VegiTerranean Akronite and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Chrissie Hynde’s awardwinning restaurant. Deliciously indulgent gourmet vegan fare with a modern Italian flair. 21 Furnace St. at Northside Lofts (Akron: Downtown) 330-374-5550 $$$ L, D, A, T Virtues Signature foods such as a tempura calamari appetizer. Specialty pizzas, filet mignon and other gourmet items with high nutritional values. 525 E. Market St. (in Akron City Hospital’s Ann and David Brennan CCU) 330-375-7444 $$$ L, D, A, T, V V-Li’s Cuisine Thai dishes. 129 N. Canal St. (Canal Fulton) 330-854-5344 $$ L, D, A, T Wally Waffle Quaint breakfast place, perfect for Sunday brunch. 338 Locust St. (Akron: Downtown) 330-762-3388; 750 Darrow Rd. (Tallmadge) 330-633-7400 $ B, L, T

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

Famous for the Waterloo Big Apple and French onion soup. 423 E. Waterloo Rd. (Akron: South) 330-773-5158 $$ B, L, D, T West Side Bakery 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 $ B, L, T Wild Goats Coffee & Café Offers light entrées, vegan and vegetarian soups, and exceptional coffee. 319 W. Main St. (Kent) 330-677-2326 $$ B, L, D, T Winking Lizard Come to see the lizard, stay for the extensive beer selection and food.

25 Ghent Rd. (Fairlawn) 330-836-6129; 1615 Main St. (Peninsula) 330-467-1002; 5710 Fulton Dr. NW (Canton) 330-497-1133 $$$ L, D, A, T Yellowtail Japanese-style seafood and sushi buffet. 4054 Medina Rd. (Montrose) 330-6669988 $$$$ L, D, A, T Yocono’s Homey, Italian restaurant with reasonable prices. 1666 W. Exchange St. (Akron: West) 330-867-5550 $$ B, L, D, A, T

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

www.akronlife.com

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photo by Shane Wynn

parting shot

Seasons Change / A view of beautiful fall foliage in Cascade Village /

>> This view of fall colors taken from the Y-Bridge is a testament to Akron’s commitment to the value of green space in neighborhood communities. Along with these urban green spaces, Akron also offers 6,600 acres of scenic park areas.

Comments?

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

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akronlife

october 2011