2024-25 City of Green Magazine

2024-25

Chill

Out

4 hot spots to grab a cool treat

How local businesses are making their mark in aerospace

4 hidden gems to visit in the city

An inside look at Green’s ROTC program

SPONSORED BY THE CITY OF GREEN

Builder Builder Developer Developer Real RealEstate EstateBroker Broker 330.896.3253 330.896.3253

Building BuildingRelationships Relationshipsininthe theCity CityofofGreen GreenSince Since1984 1984

SERVING SERVINGTHE THECITY CITYOF OFGREEN GREEN GREAT GREATFOOD FOOD~~SINCE SINCE1987 1987 1687 1687Sandy SandyKnoll KnollDrive Drive• Green, • Green,Ohio Ohio

24 We’re

COVER PHOTO: L AURA WATILO BL AKE / FEATURING JENN HARMER , OWNER OF WAYLON’S HANDCRAFTED ICE CREAM / THIS PAGE: COURTESY RACHEL BELLIS

| CONTENTS |

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MESSAGE FROM

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SWEET TREATS

THE MAYOR Central Park shines as a community gathering place.

Find out where to grab a sweet, cool treat in Green.

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MAP & LOCATION INDEX

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CITY NEWS: ART X LOVE

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SCHOOLS

Learn more about Green, including city demographics.

A community activity book sparks new ideas for the city.

communities working together to keep Green’s utility rates affordable.

Put NOPEC’s bulk buying power to work for you.

Since 2001, NOPEC has been working to keep your natural gas and electric rates manageable.

We make it easy, with no tricky contracts and the flexibility to move between products without penalties or fees. Plus, with our 24/7 Customer Care Center, we’re always just a phone call away. For more than 20 years, NOPEC has had your back. And you can be sure we will continue to for years to come.

For more information, visit NOPEC.org or call 855-667-3201.

Learn more about Green’s ROTC program.

18 Green businesses play an

AEROSPACE IN ACTION important role in aerospace and defense.

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HIDDEN GEMS Check out four unique spots to visit in the city.

you are so loved.

Sunday services at 9am & 10:40am Learn more about us at tcig.org!

A PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF GREEN. FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL 216-377-3693.

1 8 0 0 R A B E R R OA D CityofGreen.org ✦ 330-896-5500

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CITY OF GREEN ADMINISTRATION

330-896-5500

cityofgreen.org

CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION BUILDING

1755 Town Park Blvd., Green, OH 44685 GENERAL MAILING ADDRESS

P.O. Box 278, Green, OH 44232 INCOME TAX MAILING ADDRESS

P.O. Box 460, Green, OH 44232

GENERAL PHONE NUMBERS Mayor’s Office 330-896-6602 City Council 330-896-6604 Engineering Department 330-896-5510 Finance Department 330-896-6603 Highway/Stormwater Division 330-896-6607 Human Resources 330-896-4138 Income Tax Division 330-896-6622 Law Department 330-896-6615 Parks & Recreation Division 330-896-6621 Planning Department 330-896-6614 Public Service Department 330-896-4176 Zoning Division 330-896-6605 Emergency 911 Fire Division Non-Emergency 330-896-6610 Summit County Sheriff/ 330-643-2181 Non-Emergency

GREEN EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS Cleveland Clinic Akron General Health 330-896-5011 & Wellness Center 1940 Town Park Blvd., Green, OH 44685 Summa Health Center 330-899-2400 Emergency Room 1825 Franks Pkwy., Green, OH 44685

GREEN LOCAL SCHOOLS greenlocalschools.org, 330-896-7500 Physical Address 1755 Town Park Blvd., Green, OH 44685

Mailing Address P.O. Box 218 Green, OH 44232

PORTAGE LAKES CAREER CENTER plcc.edu, 330-896-8200 4041 Shriver Road, Green, OH 44685

OTHER COMMUNITY SERVICE PROVIDERS Green Area Chamber of Commerce 330-552-5066 Akron-Summit County Library-Green Branch 330-896-9074 4046 Massillon Road, Green, OH 44685 UTILITY PROVIDERS NATURAL GAS Dominion East Ohio 330-794-0790 ELECTRICITY FirstEnergy/Ohio Edison 800-633-4766 ELECTRICITY Report a Street Light Outage 800-646-0400 ELECTRICITY Report a Power Outage 888-544-4877 SANITARY SEWER Summit County 330-926-2400 Department of Sanitary Sewer Services ON-SITE WELL & SEPTIC Summit County 330-926-5600 General Health District CABLE TV Spectrum Cable 330-633-9203 TELEPHONE AT&T 800-660-1000 REFUSE COLLECTION Republic Services 800-247-3644 WATER Aqua Ohio 877-987-2782

ZIP CODES Green 4735 Massillon Road, Green, OH 44232 North Canton 2201 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720 Uniontown 11230 Cleveland Ave. NW, Uniontown, OH 44685 Ellet (Akron) 2390 Wedgewood Drive, Ellet, OH 44312 Firestone (Akron) 2001 Brown St., Akron, OH 44319 Clinton 2733 W. Comet Road, Clinton, OH 44216

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» A PARK FOR ALL SEASONS In the center of Green is Central Park. Adjacent to the City Administration Building, Green Local Schools campus, and future home of the city’s Community Courts facility, this 5-acre park is in the geographic center of our city. It is also quickly becoming the hub of gatherings and connection among neighbors all year long.

In Spring, the park starts to come alive with families coming out to play on the playground on those first warm days or take a stroll through the park. And on a Saturday in May, you’ll see brightly colored gowns and the sweet faces of Green High School students taking prom photos.

In Summer, Central Park is the place to be, filled with free entertainment for the whole family. Summer Friday night concerts, sponsored by Serra Auto Park, bring out hundreds of residents to enjoy live music and community (and don’t forget food from the handful of local food trucks).

Equally as popular, the Children’s Entertainment Series, a collaboration between the city and the Akron Summit County Library Green Branch, brings toddlers and young elementary students alike along with their caregivers to learn about wild animals or be entertained by jugglers, bubbles, music and so much more.

Of course, the splash pad, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, is abuzz with laughter and shrieks of joy. And in the still of Wednesday and Saturday mornings, novice and seasoned yoga students enjoy the peace of movement led by Cleveland Clinic Akron General yoga instructors.

In the Fall, Friday night lights at the Green Memorial Stadium next door begin with Friday tailgates on select game nights. And on a Saturday in October, all the little ghosts and goblins come out to seek treats along the not-so-scary Trick-or-Treat Trail.

In the Winter, dog walkers brave the elements and meander through on their daily walks. On sunny days, you might even catch a few lingering on the park benches for a moment. On the first Saturday in December, we welcome Santa to Christmas in the Park, greeting families bubbling with excitement for the holiday season.

This little park, tucked so efficiently in our city center, is truly the heartbeat of Green, filled with the sounds and activities of our community. It is a place to gather for all, whatever the season. We hope to see you there soon.

- Mayor Rocco Yeargin

COURTESY CIT Y OF GREEN

Green residents are served by six post offices.

Message from the Mayor

abound

in Green for your family, your employees, and your business

Great location with three exits along I-77 | Equidistant between Akron and Canton Home to the Akron-Canton Airport | More than 2,000 acres of parkland Variety of housing options | Available land for commercial/industrial use in multiple business parks

@cityofgreenohio

@cityofgreenoh

/cityofgreenohio

cityofgreen.org

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S W E E T T R E AT S

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Green Screams for Ice Cream!

Here’s the scoop on what makes the local frozen treat scene so sweet.

By Leslie Basalla-McCafferty

CHERRY

» FROM SOFT SERVE TO HARD SCOOP, local ice cream shops, stands and parlors are dishing out a dazzling array of tantalizing treats that span well beyond 31 flavors. No matter what floats your boat — even if you’re dairy-free by necessity or by choice — you’ll be sure to find something that’s parfait for your palate when you dip into one of these area favorites.

COOKIE MONSTER

L AURA WATILO BL AKE

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BIRTHDAY CAKE

“Everything is handmade on site. When there is cinnamon roll ice cream, it comes from cinnamon rolls that are made from scratch; the brownies and cookies in the ice cream are all scratch made.”

– Jenn Harmer, owner

L AURA WATILO BL AKE

PISTACHIO

Waylon’s Handcrafted No truth in advertising laws are being violated at Waylon’s Handcrafted. As the shop’s name implies, everything, from the ice cream itself to the baked goods that get blended into signature flavors like Fudge Brownie, is lovingly made inhouse, from scratch.

“Everything is handmade on site,” Owner-Operator Jenn Harmer says (although she notes she does occasionally use pre-made pretzels and Oreos for some treats). “When there is cinnamon roll ice cream, it comes from cinnamon rolls that are made from scratch; the brownies and cookies in the ice cream are all scratch made.”

Harmer launched Waylon’s, which is named after her son, in 2020, as a production kitchen, selling pints and custom creations off-site. The public scoop shop debuted last year and has been dishing out a rotating array of 15 to 20 varieties of hard scoop in classic and creative flavors, but it’s also Harmer’s spec-

tacular ice cream sandwiches and cakes that keep guests coming back.

“I started it all by making ice cream sandwiches — they’ve become Waylon’s signature treat,” she says. “From there I moved on to the ice cream cakes. Our cakes are completely customizable because we are making all the ingredients.”

Harmer says the most popular sandwich features Cookie Monster ice cream, packed with an assortment of handmade cookie crumbles and fudge, and coated in blue sprinkles to resemble its namesake Muppet. Bestselling ice creams include Buckeye Fudge and Banana Oreo.

Harmer says she can’t decide what she likes better between her Fudge Brownie and Coffee flavors.

“I make everything the way I’d want to eat it,” she adds. “I always try to think of a way to make each flavor the most delicious I’d know how.”

3979 S. Main St., 937-545-7969, waylonshandcrafted.com CityofGreen.org ✦ 330-896-5500

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“People are just happy when they come get ice cream. We love being able to make someone’s day.”

– Miriah Valentic, owner

3433 Massillon Road, 330-896-5655, handelsicecream.com/store/green

The Reading Garden at Green Branch Library

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Monday - Thursday 10 am - 8 pm Friday 12 - 6 pm Saturday 10 am - 5 pm Sunday Closed

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GREEN BRANCH 4046 Massillon Road Uniontown, Ohio 44685 330.896.9074 akronlibrary.org

COURTESY MIRIAH VALENTIC

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Fresh, seasonal tastes are among the main attractions at Handel’s Ice Cream.

“Our slogan, ‘made fresh daily,’ isn’t just a slogan. We truly make our ice cream in-house, every day,” says Green franchise Owner Miriah Valentic.

At 79 years old, the chain has 27 locations in Ohio, plus spots in 14 other states, but no matter where, the focus is on fun flavors made with the best ingredients.

“Banana flavors are made with real bananas; peach is made with real peaches,” Valentic says. “Every flavor can be enjoyed on its own or made into a milkshake, sundae or banana split.”

Popular scoops include Chocoholic Peanut Butter Ripple and Graham Central Station (one of Valentic’s favorites). Her

husband, and co-franchisee, John, reaches for Key Lime Pie and the banana, caramel and brownie-fueled Monkey Business.

Regardless of what she’s savoring, Valentic says the greatest reward for filling cones and stuffing sandwiches is satisfied customers and a sated sweet tooth.

“The way that ice cream makes somebody’s day, I think that’s the most fun part,” she says. “People are just happy when they come get ice cream. We love being able to make someone’s day.”

COURTESY KARL WARTHER

Dairy Queen Grill and Chill At Dairy Queen Grill and Chill, there’s more to enjoy than just frozen desserts.

Guests are greeted by a full fast-food menu of burgers, fries and treats — meaning you can start with a meal and finish with something sweet.

“My personal favorite is the Chicken Strip Basket with a Peanut Buster Parfait,” says Karl Warther, who owns the Green franchise, plus five others, with his brother and brother-in-law.

One of the oldest soft-serve chains in the country, Dairy Queen is famous for customer favorites like its Blizzards and DQ cakes. “(DQ) has created generations of stories,” Warther says. “Whenever we talk to somebody in public and they ask what we do for a living, we always hear a childhood story about ‘my Dairy Queen.’”

Warther and his partners plan to eventually relocate the store out of its current location in Town Park Plaza and into a freestanding building, but in the meantime, he says he’s just happy to serve the community its frozen favorites.

“One of the reasons we got into DQ was to be in the treat business, where people come to celebrate, be happy and get a treat.”

“One of the reasons we got into DQ was to be in the treat business, where people come to celebrate, be happy and get a treat.”

840 Town Park Blvd., 330-563-4224, 1 dairyqueen.com

– Karl Warther, owner

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CityofGreen.org ✦ 330-896-5500

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NOT FOR PROFIT

FAITH BASED

LOCALLY OPERATED

COURTESY NIK PAPPAS

Pav’s Creamery Pav’s Creamery has been run by the same family for four generations, starting when current Co-owner Nik Pappas’ grandfather bought his first ice cream stand from original Owner Robert Pavlik in 1978. Now Nik’s son Luca has joined the company. No one involved in the business is content to coast on past victories. Pav’s, instead, has respected a multigenerational tradition of quality while continually expanding, innovating and thinking outside the carton.

“I had no intentions of ever getting into the ice cream business,” Pappas says. “I was a hotelier for many years, worked overseas for 12 years and was happy doing that. Then I came home one summer and just kind of fell in love with it — so here I am 15 years later, and we have five stores now. It just kind of organically grew.”

Among the things that have fueled Pav’s growth are its adult milkshakes, which are frozen custard shakes spiked with liquor.

“We were the first ice cream shop in Ohio and the second one in America (the other one was in Las Vegas) to have to have a full-service liquor license,” Pappas

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“Our whole model is just to be different; we don’t want to be the same old ice cream shop. We’re just trying to do things that are fun, engaging and unique.”

– Nik Pappas, owner

says. “We have the same liquor license that a bar in Downtown Cleveland would have, so it gives us an opportunity to create different things that other ice cream shops can’t. Our adult milkshakes were a hit, and then we did adult push pops for the summer with sorbets.”

Pav’s is still kid-friendly, though. Last year, the shop recreated Willy Wonka’s golden ticket contest, offering anyone who came into the shop a gold scratchoff ticket. Five lucky winners received free ice cream for life.

Another way Pav’s is innovating is by taking its treats to the streets.

“When COVID happened, we went out and bought two old-fashioned ice cream trucks,” Pappas says. “(We thought), how could we survive as a business? Well, there’s always going to

be weddings, there’s always going to be graduation parties, there’s always going to be neighborhood block parties — so we bought two trucks and that has just totally taken off. We do right around 25 to 30 events a week, so it’s kind of like a business within a business.”

Whether Pappas is slinging a signature Baklava Sundae or enjoying one of Pav’s 15-plus dairy-free options (he, ironically, is lactose intolerant), he says making the shop stand out is the goal.

“Our whole model is just to be different; we don’t want to be the same old ice cream shop. We’re just trying to do things that are fun, engaging and unique.”

3875 Massillon Road, 330-958-1589,

pavscreamery.com

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CityofGreen.org ✦ 330-896-5500

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M A P & L O C AT I O N I N D E X

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CIT Y OFFICES 5F

City of Green Central Administration Building 8G City of Green Highway Division 8G City of Green Recycling Center

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FIRE/POLICE 5F 2C 3I 2C

Fire Station No. 1 Fire Station No. 2 Fire Station No. 3 Sheriff’s Office

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SCHOOLS 4F 5F 5F

Green High School Green Intermediate School Green Local Schools Board of Education 5F Green Middle School 4H Green Primary School 4H Greenwood Elementary School 4H Mayfair Christian School 5F Portage Lakes Career Center

PARKS 6H 8F 5F 2C 7G 5F 7E 1B 3J 2I 6B 9E 9F 2E 5F 8C

Ariss Park/Dick Goddard Dog Park Boettler Park Central Park East Liberty Park Greensburg Park John Torok Community Center Kleckner Park Knapp Recreation Area Kreighbaum Park Myersville Fen Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park Singer Lake Preserve Southgate Park Spring Hill Sports Complex Veterans Memorial Park YMCA Camp Y-Noah

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GOLF COURSES 1E 2H 3H 5H 2A

Chenoweth Golf Course Mayfair Golf & Country Club Ohio Prestwick Country Club Raintree Golf and Event Center Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links

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CEMETERIES 2D 7E 6D

East Liberty Cemetery Greensburg Cemetery Klinefelter Cemetery

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OTHER 5F

Akron-Summit Public Library Green Branch 5G Cleveland Clinic Akron General Emergency Department/Health & Wellness Center 6G Post Office 4G Summa Emergency Department 4F YMCA

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CITY OF GREEN

BY THE NUMBERS

LOCATION Southern Summit County with three interchanges along I-77 AKRON ➤ 11.4 mi CANTON ➤ 14.6 mi CLEVELAND ➤ 47.1 mi COLUMBUS ➤ 130 mi PITTSBURGH, PA ➤ 116 mi WHEELING, WV ➤ 99.4 mi YOUNGSTOWN ➤ 56.4 mi

POPULATION

27,475 50.1% Male 49.9% Female

24.6% Families with

Children Under 18 Years Old

Residents with a Bachelor’s Degree or Higher

42.7%

18.7% Persons 65+

INCOME $

90,419

Median Household Income

PROPERTY Median Value Owner-Occupied = $ Units

256,200

Average Household Size = Owner-Occupied = Housing Unit Rate

2.53 75.4%

FORM OF GOVERNMENT STRONG MAYOR/COUNCIL SOURCES: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU, 2020 U.S. CENSUS; AND AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY 2018-2022

CityofGreen.org ✦ 330-896-5500

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CITY NEWS

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Community Voice

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By Jill Sell

“Something like this builds trust between city leadership and the community.”

– Mac Love

books were distributed, generating 302 participants. The data was tallied this summer and presented to the city to help with future plans. Some residents loved their activity book so much (which introduced some participants to places like Green’s 197-acre Southgate Park and the historic Hartong Farmstead, which they weren’t familiar with), that they didn’t want to give them up.

“Something like this builds trust between city leadership and the commu-

nity,” says Mac Love, who, along with Co-founder and Chief Operator Allyse Love, have created similar books for other communities — large and small — across the country. “Some of the things people indicated they wanted in the earliest responses included more public art and landscaping in the city’s roundabouts.”

“A lot of people want to stay in Green — they like it there, and they want to spend their money in the community.

But they also want more places to do that, like local coffee shops,” adds Allyse Love.

Common themes about what inspired residents, and what they identified with, also became apparent. Among those things mentioned were Green’s natural environments and parks, the local school district’s Bulldog mascot and the city’s name itself. (Mac Love particularly found the public art idea, “GREEN: We have other colors, too” to be amusing and clever.)

Haring says the activity book has been not just a wealth of information about community needs and wants but has also acted as a springboard for other activities. That has included selecting images that were submitted from activity book participants, enlarging and framing those with the intent to display them in various public places around town.

“The response has also indicated that it is time for us to develop a far-reaching arts and culture plan,” Haring says. “We have folks in the community who have a heart for that and the talent to put those ideas to good use for all of us.”

COURTESY ART X LOVE

» THANKS TO A UNIQUE PROJECT, RESIDENTS HAVE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE THEIR IDEAS about what they think would make Green even better. Ideas such as an independent bookstore within the city, a city-sponsored sports and rec day featuring family fun challenges (think potato sack races) and a senior Olympics were just some of the things residents mentioned.

These ideas were gleaned through the Green Visionary community activity booklet, a project that began in 2023. Created by the Akron-based creative agency Art x Love and sponsored by the City of Green, the booklet includes coloring opportunities, community searches (like scavenger hunts) and lots of other fun activities.

In addition, the booklet gave residents, as well as those who work and visit the city, a new voice in registering what they like about Green and what improvements and amenities they hope to see.

“One of the values of this book has come from the way we gathered information and from whom,” says Sarah Haring, community development administrator for the City of Green. “We knew we would hear from certain demographics who have time to answer surveys and also those who care about certain issues. We always value those voices. But with this project, we also heard from students, younger people and others who may not always have the opportunity to come to a community or city meeting. That was extraordinary.”

Mac Love, Art x Love’s co-founder and chief catalyst, said about 3,000 activity

The Green Visionary activity book has its finger on the pulse of the city.

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SCHOOLS

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Growing

LEADERS

Green’s ROTC program teaches life skills and helps build character. By Kellie Innes and a fitness team. And while many of the ROTC cadets go on to serve their country — and quickly rise through the ranks because of what they’ve learned at Green — the program is not solely a recruiting program but rather a citizenship program.

“We teach a variety of life skills that aren’t in most school curriculum,” Master Sergeant Justin Speight shares. “We want students to be leaders in the community and the school district.”

After a banner year of individual and student group awards, Green’s ROTC program has landed within the top 5% of units nationwide. Here, student Keely Bahry, a senior and wing commander, shares her experience of being part of such a dynamic, successful and impactful program.

LEFT & RIGHT PAGES COURTESY KEELY BAHRY

» WHEN YOU SEE A ROOM OF MEN AND WOMEN dressed in military regalia, you might not expect them to be in a sewing circle, carefully reattaching buttons and other small details to their uniforms. If you’re a cadet in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program at Green Local Schools, though, sewing is just one of the many forms of training you’ll go through.

“We teach everything from knot-tying to lessons on health and wellness to aviation history to rocketry,” says Lieutenant Colonel Colleen VanNatta. “We keep them on their toes, and I think they enjoy how different every day could be.”

Formed in 2006, the current branch of the ROTC at Green offers classes, drill work and a number of extracurriculars, including color guard, academic challenge

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KEELY BAHRY Q: Can you tell us about your experience in the ROTC? A: My experience with the program has been nothing short of life changing. You learn valuable life skills and develop outstanding character. We learn how to build resumes for our future, nutrition and fitness basics, uniform wear and chain of command within the wing, and even branch out as far as having hands-on courses.

Q: Are you involved in any of the extracurricular options that the ROTC offers?

A: I am involved in nearly everything the program has to offer. I’m a member of our competitive drill team, which is ranked second in the nation for Air Force teams. I personally commanded the inspection flight and was a part of the Color Guard team that won first in the nation in 2023. I also participate in our athletics program. The more you involve yourself and participate, the more you’re going to get out of it, and I can say from experience that each and every opportunity is absolutely worth it.

Q: What do you think sets the ROTC at Green apart from other ROTC programs?

A: The program at Green High School is set apart from other programs because of the dedication of both the instructors and senior leadership. This program, it gives you a family. We’re more than just teammates or acquaintances, and that, simply put, is why we succeed as we do.

Q: How do you think this program has shaped you for the next steps?

A: This program has helped me to explore many options and paths that I never would have thought possible for me. It has helped me grow as a person and a member of my community. The skills I’ve learned through this course will continue to help me as I go on to apply for scholarships, colleges, jobs and so much more. I’m now prepared to live my life as a leader to those around me.

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MANUFACTURING

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“Like many companies today, finding people who want to work in manufacturing, especially a foundry where it can be 150 degrees, can be difficult, but it also provides opportunities.”

– Thomas Planz

Flying

HIGH

Find out how Green-based businesses are changing the face of aerospace and defense.

By Jill Sell

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Collins Aerospace The next time your plane is flying through an ice storm, you can probably thank Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, for keeping you safe. The company develops products that prevent ice from forming on planes during flight.

Under the right environmental conditions, “an aircraft can collect ice very quickly once it is in the air,” says Kevin Schramm, general manager of the Collins Aerospace facility in Green that supplies the necessary protection for commercial, military, business, general aviation and rotorcraft markets.

The global company, a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for aerospace and defense industries, also provides potable water for use on aircraft.

Collins in Green is “a heavy engineering facility that is half technical,” which allows the company to take ideas through research and development to new product introductions, according to Schramm. One of those innovations

COURTESY COLLINS AEROSPACE / KOVATCH CASTINGS

» THE CRITICAL AEROSPACE AND DEFENSE INDUSTRIES touch the lives of every American directly or indirectly every day. That vacation flight to Florida, the helicopter transport of a patient to a hospital, high-level business and political deals made on private jets and the protection of our country by military aircraft all depend on safe air travel.

Innovation and technology have allowed America to be a leader in the combined aerospace/defense industry that will reach $439 billion in revenue by 2027, according to analyst IBISWorld. Parts manufacturing is a large portion of that, and technology is intertwined. Green is home to several aerospace companies with national and global recognition.

COURTESY KOVATCH CASTINGS / STARK INDUSTRIAL LLC

is a new carbon nanotube that meets sustainability goals and that will help aircraft engine design obtain better gas mileage. The innovation is expected to be available in the late 2020s and early 2030s.

“One of the very unique things about our site in Green is that we have one of the few icing wind tunnels in the world,” says Schramm. “It allows us to prove very quickly that our solutions work.”

Schramm is proud of the company’s connection to local talent and its collaboration with several state universities in Ohio to provide internships that may lead to fulltime employment. Collins employees can choose to make Northeast Ohio their home or take advantage of worldwide opportunities.

Kovatch Castings It also helps if the plane you are on stops once it reaches the end of the runway upon landing. Kovatch Castings wants to make sure that happens. The company “provides investment castings to the aerospace industry,” according to Thomas Planz, president of the company, which can be traced back 50-plus years and has been in its Green location since 1991.

Those castings include the all-important braking parts, structural parts, linkage balls, fuel system castings and more for components needed by the commercial and defense industries. Kovatch works with steel, aluminum, cobalt, nickel, copper and other alloys to make parts needed by manufacturers.

Because Kovatch Castings is a supplier to the defense industry, following additional governmental requirements is necessary to run the company, according to Planz. That includes extensive cybersecurity precautions and employee clearances that involve citizenship requirements and strict drug-free mandates.

“Finding materials these days isn’t as much an issue as finding employees, and that doesn’t necessarily mean trained employees,” says Planz, noting the defense industry’s restrictions.

“Also, like many companies today, finding people who want to work in manufacturing, especially a foundry where it can be 150 degrees, can be difficult, but it also provides opportunities. Recently, we gave a tour to the mayor and his staff and have met with the city and state about hiring. That gave us good leads and clarified to the city what we are looking for and need, which in turn can help residents.”

Kovatch Castings is involved with America Makes and works with 50 companies as part of a consortium. (America Makes is a Department of Defense-funded program that accelerates the adoption of additive manufacturing and increases U.S. manufacturing competitiveness.)

The company is part of two programs to develop new technologies. One involves printing ceramic molds that may possibly eliminate several time-consuming and expensive parts of the casting process.

In 2019, Kovatch became an employee stock ownership plan member, a move that has benefited both the business and its workers, according to Planz. The company president is also a promoter of the community in which he has lived since 2019.

“I like Green. It’s a good blend of urban and rural living and is close to larger cities, including Akron and Cleveland,” he says, adding that is also an advantage for his employees and clients.

Stark Industrial Two decades ago, Stark Industrial began its relationship with the aerospace industry. The company created metallurgical samples and created products that helped strengthen aircraft components, including jet engine airfoils.

“More recently, we have become involved with more outer space work and satellite parts. There seem to be satellites going up on a daily basis now, and we are seeing a growth in other orbital systems,” says Jonathan Wilkof, vice president of Stark Industrial and a third-generation member of the family-owned business.

“It used to be if you wanted to go into space, you went to NASA. Now, it’s everyone and everything. Before, if you wanted to build a satellite, you had to design it and every single one of its components.”

Today, different manufacturers make engines, thrusters, commercial instruments and other pieces needed for space flights, according to Wilkof.

Stark Industrial, described as a contract manufacturer of precision metal parts and custom measuring instruments, also has the honor of working with the Maurice J. Zucrow Laboratories at Purdue University, which has the largest academic propulsion lab in the world. Stark Industrial creates parts for their projects that include hypersonic and supersonic engineering and more.

“Our staff got into aerospace 20 years ago because there were so many young startups, and we were able to get in on the ground floor,” says Wilkof. “A small company like us definitely has a place to compete in the aerospace arena. Obviously, I am not going to compete at the highest levels, but there are so many opportunities and so many innovative ideas available.”

Wilkof praises Green’s safety forces, government and community leaders who maintain the city’s accommodating nature, appearance and infrastructure — things that mean a lot to the reputation of his company. And although he’s content with being in the community, would Wilkof ever consider space travel?

“I think getting the perspective from space would probably be one of the most spiritual experiences of my life. It would be a different frame of reference,” says Wilkof. “I’d like to do it if it were ever possible for me.”

CityofGreen.org ✦ 330-896-5500

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EXPLORING THE CITY

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Hidden Gems

Nestled in the rolling hills of Northeast Ohio, Green is more than just a beautiful suburb — it’s a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. By Rachel Hagenbaugh

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airfield. Add to that a children’s Playport, sensory room, Akron Zoo displays and outdoor pet relief area, and it’s easy to see why CAK is the ultimate gateway to embark on your next excursion.

“We strive to offer an exceptional guest experience that includes top-notch food and beverage options, a sense of place and a clean, welcoming facility,” Dalpiaz says. “The goal is for our passengers to start or end their trip relaxed.”

5400 Lauby Road NW, 888-434-2359, akroncantonairport.com A Nature Lover’s Paradise Discover the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts at Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park, boasting 16 miles of sparkling shoreline perfect for birding, fishing, boating and paddling.

“A sunset paddle in a kayak or canoe or on a paddleboard is hard to beat,” says

Claire Merrick, marketing and public relations manager for Summit Metro Parks, noting the area offers four boat launches. “There is a dedicated kayak and canoe launch at Lot C-4 (5550 Christman Road) that has plenty of parking spaces for busy summer days.”

Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish, including largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish and walleye. Meanwhile, birdwatchers will find Nimisila to be a prime location, especially during the purple martin migration in August.

“The reservoir is also home to several species of waterfowl, eagles and osprey,” Merrick says.

For those seeking a scenic walk, park at Lot SM-2 (5531 S. Main St.) and stroll a 3.1-mile round-trip trail that overlooks the water. Looking to spend the night?

COURTESY AKRON-CANTON AIRPORT / SUMMIT METRO PARK MARKETING

Gateway to Global Exploration The entire world is just a flight away at Akron-Canton Airport (CAK). Here, a stress-free and smooth passenger experience complements 20 nonstop and more than 150 one-stop flights throughout the country, including new routes to Raleigh-Durham and Las Vegas, as well as about 100 international connections to destinations including Beijing, Frankfurt, Cancun, Paris and Toyko.

“Akron-Canton Airport is the preferred Northeast Ohio airport for many reasons, including short lines, car to gate in minutes, a clean facility and friendly staff,” says Lisa Dalpiaz, vice president of air service and business development. “Plus, CAK has the lowest average fares among airports including Cleveland, Columbus and Pittsburgh.”

Imagine sipping a craft beer at Great Lakes Brewing Co. before jetting off to a tropical paradise or bustling metropolis. Or, grab a seat at the new Observation Deck, which offers travelers a taste of local cuisine with exciting views of the

Camping is available at the Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park Campground, with both electric and nonelectric sites accommodating tents, campers and RVs. South Main Street and Christman Road, 330-867-5511

Taking Flight Through Time Aviation admirers and history buffs alike will be captivated by the MAPS Air Museum, a haven of aircraft displays and memorabilia. Housed in a repurposed National Guard complex, the destination is a testament to the ingenuity and bravery of those who’ve soared the skies.

“We found out that we are very good at talking about history by telling stories of local people,” says Kim Kovesci, executive director, adding that the majority of the museum’s volunteers are veterans. “They set the tone for the culture of the organization.”

Wander through the hangars and marvel at more than 60 meticulously restored vessels, each of which tells a story. Beyond the aircraft, pay homage to Ohioans who made the ultimate sacrifice at the Fallen Feathers of Ohio, Korean and Vietnam Tree of Lives displays. Other highlights include a Pearl Harbor display and a Vietnam-era Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (MASH) Unit.

Soon, MAPS Air Museum will offer even more to explore, including a room dedicated to Bob Hope, a comedian who lifted the spirits of millions during wars, and three Vietnam rooms.

“They will be full of mannequins dressed up to represent Vietnam veterans,” Kovesci says. “Each one will have a story of a Northeast Ohio veteran.”

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6521 Mt. Pleasant St. NW, 440-832-0865, southgatefarm.com

COURTESY RACHEL BELLIS

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A Sustainable Oasis Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or nature lover, Southgate Farm promises a delightful and enriching experience for all. Nestled on the Hartong Farmstead and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the property’s agricultural roots run deep, dating back to the 19th century.

Now in its fifth growing season, this charming, sustainable, family-run farm is located in a city park.

“We are here to grow food while taking care of the soil and surrounding ecosystem and interacting with our local community,” says Rachel Bellis, who co-owns the farm with her husband, Justin Turner.

“I think we have a unique opportunity to share this space with local park goers and educate people about small-scale food production.”

In the fields, vibrant, chemical-free vegetables and grass-fed lamb are lovingly raised. May through October, the Farm Shop offers a generous selection of the property’s produce and pasteurized meats, as well as other local offerings. Think artisanal bread, jams and jellies, flours and baking mixes, flavorful mushrooms, honey and more.

“I love how many people are involved with the farm,” Bellis says. “We have a lot of people who come to visit to learn about gardening and food production.

Their enthusiasm fuels my own.”

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