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Why We Call Summit, Stark, Medina, and Portage Counties Home

Discover the best the region has to offer and more!

OTHER SMART

STUFF!

Changemakers, Smart Moves

Meet the Changemakers among us, and the Smart Moves who are glad they made Akron-Canton their home

Kaitlyn May, D.O. Akron Children’s Hospital Emergency Doctor

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Aultman Health System

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E X I S T S of of childhood, childhood, from from Toddler Toddler to to Grade Grade 8, 8, is is met met with with thoughtful thoughtful intention. intention. Strong Strong foundations foundations become become deeper deeper understanding. understanding. Curiosity Curiosity becomes becomes conficonfidence. Simple questions become complex dence. Simple questions become complex thinkthinking. ing. As As children children grow, grow, so so do do the the opportunities opportunities to to challenge themselves, discover new passions and challenge themselves, discover new passions and realize realize just just how how much much they’re they’re capable capable of. of. Because Because the the most most important important thing thing we we nurture nurture isn’t isn’t simply academic success—it’s children simply academic success—it’s children who who know know themselves, themselves, remain remain curious curious and and have have the the conficonfidence dence to to make make aa positive positive difference difference in in the the world. world. And And it it all all begins begins with with childhood. childhood. Come Come see see who who your your child child will will become. become. Schedule Schedule aa tour tour this this fall fall and and throughout throughout the the school year. school year.

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What I Love About the Greater Akron-Canton Region

Eateries, Breweries, and Wineries Feature: From Italy to Akron—A Merchant Tavern/ Towpath Distillery Journey

Shopping Destinations, Farm Markets, and Garden Centers

Music, Dance, Theater, and Film

Libraries, Independent Bookstores, and Speaker Series Feature: Preserving the Legacies of Our Nation’s First Ladies

Museums and Galleries Feature: Stan Hywet’s Deck the Hall—An Insider’s View

Sports, Fitness, and Outdoor Fun

Education for Everyone

Coffee on Wheels, Vince and Anne Bell Austin Ferguson— Leading the Way at Tuesday Musical Kaitlyn May, D.O., Akron Children’s Hospital Sara Whittingham, M.D.—Finding the Good Jota Nakano, M.D., Ph.D., Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital

Health and Wellness

Community Resources Feature: Middlebury on the Rise

Business, Economic, and Professional Development Feature: Welty Enterprises—More Than Just a Building Company

LeBron James— Just a Kid from Akron David W. James—A Region Built on Opportunity: Education in Greater Akron Charnise Lewis— The Jewell Method SCMBA’s Marketplace on 10th Street Opens for Business

Home is Here

What I Love About the Greater Akron-Canton Region W

hen I moved from Warren, Ohio, to Summit County more than 30 years ago, I didn’t know what to expect, particularly since my previous experiences had only been driving past Akron on Routes 76 and 77 while heading somewhere else. What I found here was everything I wanted. Friendly people. Welcoming neighborhoods. A great food scene. World-class medical care and nationally and internationally recognized colleges and universities. Lots of live music, dance, and theater. Hiking, biking, and other sports (including professional teams in Cleveland). Easy access to other smart stuff.

On the cover: Kaitlyn May, D.O., Akron Children’s Hospital Photo by Bruce Ford

I grew into this area, and it grew into me. Am I Akron and Canton’s biggest fan? People who travel from other places to visit my husband and me think so. I love taking these friends on hikes in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio’s only national park) or to one of the Summit County Metro Parks. I am always eager to spend an evening under the stars at Blossom Music Center or Porthouse Theatre. My outdoor blanket is in the trunk of my car, ready to head to a local park for a Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival performance. There are not enough days in the year to sample every area restaurant that I love: Fisher’s in Peninsula, Russo’s in Cuyahoga Falls, Maddalena’s in Kent, and so many others. As I worked on this magazine, I discovered even more wonderful things about the Akron-Canton region. I can’t wait to try one of Canton’s restaurants or borrow a free pass to the Akron Zoo from one of our libraries. The Medina County Park District is on my radar as a new place to hike. I am definitely going to check out LeBron James’s House Three Thirty, and I’m eager to see how the Middlebury neighborhood progresses. Plus (I’m embarrassed to admit this), I’ve never been to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. It’s on my short list of “must-visits.” Whether you are new to the area or have lived here for decades, I’m confident you’ll find plenty of interesting, fun, and exciting things to do—and people to meet. Here’s to our community and to everyone who makes this region so special! Pam @prandersonpoet

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Publisher: John Schambach Project Director: Ruth Krise Senior Writer: Pamela R. Anderson-Bartholet Editor: Jinni Fontana Art Direction and Design: Frank Cucciarre Production Manager: Gail Smith Operations Assistant: Beth Koblitz Principal Photography: Bruce Ford, except where noted.

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All photos courtesy of Merchant Tavern

The Merchant Tavern Burger

ecades ago, Anthony Piscazzi’s family immigrated from Italy to Akron. His great-grandparents, Roxy and Lucia Piscazzi, had a storied romance involving a kidnapping, a North Akron bar called Roxy’s Cafe, and Lucia’s locally renowned cooking. But even though his family roots ran deep, From that point forward, the tavern was Anthony had big dreams that didn’t include thriving—until 2020, when COVID-19 hit. staying in Akron—he wanted more than the Like most small businesses, the tavern “same old, same old.” He earned a marketing locked its doors, but Anthony used the and advertising degree at The University downtime wisely. Following strict COVIDof Akron, packed his bags, and moved to 19 guidelines, he and a small crew deepColorado. cleaned the kitchen, made needed repairs, and built The Towpath Distillery. In Denver, the only work he could find was unpaid internships in advertising, so he switched to wine sales, then pharmaceutical sales, working his way back through Columbus and eventually home to Akron. In total, it took four years. For the next seven years, Anthony grew in new ways, working his way up to district manager and traveling a seven-state territory. Managing salespeople taught him how to build a team. But even in that lucrative career, he kept thinking about owning a restaurant—the history that began with Roxy and Lucia was in his blood. Money was always the obstacle, but Anthony saved what he could and kept an eye out for the right bar or restaurant to buy. The opportunity came when a bar on Merriman Road went up for sale. He made an offer and was turned down—but a few months later, the owner called back, and they struck a deal.

Anthony Piscazzi

He quit his day job and cashed out everything he had—enough to open the bar and restaurant and live without a paycheck for a year. Over several months, he built a staff, tested menu options, and planned renovations. In October 2013, he closed the bar on a Sunday, remodeled side-by-side with his dad and a small crew, and reopened Friday as The Merchant Tavern. “I slept there that week,” he recalls. “I never left from Sunday when we closed until we reopened on Friday.” The Towpath Distillery

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What would Anthony say to someone who is new to the area and is thinking about going to the tavern for a meal? “When you are at our place, we’ll treat you like a guest in our home. We’ll do everything we can to make you feel comfortable. We want The Merchant Tavern to be a place where friends become family.” And it does feel that way—the patio is always busy, the crowd is friendly, and the food is top-notch. Whether you’re new to Akron and putting down roots, or you’ve been here for decades, the tavern is the kind of place to gather with family and friends.

Read about Roxy and Lucia’s swashbuckling romance on The Merchant Tavern’s website. It’s a charming story of love beating the odds. Some of Lucia’s original recipes influence several current menu items, and the angel food cake dessert is an original recipe from Anthony’s Uncle John. 6 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

Akron Family Restaurant

Swensons Drive-in

Debbie DiNicola and JoEllen Burke

eople from all around the country—and the world—have settled in the Greater Akron-Canton area, bringing old family recipes and culinary gifts to the restaurants, cafes, and food trucks we all enjoy. In this area, you don’t have to travel far to find fine dining, a quirky diner, or good oldfashioned home cooking. We are a “foodie” place— and proud of it. Although it’s impossible to list every place to grab a bite to eat, the following are some favorites recommended by local folks.

Sisters. Retirees. Foodies.

We were close when we were children, and that hasn’t changed over the years. Since we’re both retired now, we love to keep our connection by eating out at new restaurants or old favorites. Some of our favorite local spots are the Akron Family Restaurant (where we never had a bad meal) and Village Gardens in Cuyahoga Falls (delicious homemade soups!). With a large menu and a well-stocked bar, you can’t beat Gasoline Alley in Bath. In the Valley, we like to go to Papa Joe’s or Michael’s AM. And, for something a little more upscale, the Tomato Grill in Hudson has wonderful Italian food in a convenient location. We have some of our best—and most fun— times when we are sharing a meal.

Courtesy of Swensons Drive-In

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What does Anthony love most about running The Merchant Tavern and Towpath Distillery? “It’s the social aspect. I get to see my family and friends every day. Most people can’t say that. It’s important to me.” He also says he loves creating things that people consume—specialty cocktails, appetizers, and meals. “There is a sense of pride. Of I made that!”

The tavern’s bar is its heart and soul— on any weeknight, it’s the first place to fill up and the last place to empty. COVID-19 threatened to shrink seating from 20 to just eight, so Anthony and a friend built custom plexiglass dividers that let the business operate at full capacity. Customers noticed and appreciated that Anthony was taking things seriously. Since then, it’s thrived.

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Lucca Downtown

Shammas Malik

William V. Sherer, II

Mayor of Akron

Mayor of Canton favorite neighborhood spot for grabbing a healthy meal or meeting with friends and colleagues.

Mayor Malik says one of the best ways to experience Akron is through its local restaurants and coffee shops, each with its own personality, loyal following, and connection to the neighborhoods around them. “Akron has always been a city with a strong sense of place, and our local restaurants reflect that. Whether it’s an oldschool staple, a neighborhood coffee shop, or a family-owned restaurant serving food from around the world, these businesses help define the character of our city.” Akron’s coffee scene is one of Mayor Malik’s favorite ways to connect with residents and spend time in various parts of the city. His regular stops include Nervous Dog Coffee Bar on West Market Street, Porchlight Coffee near The University of Akron, 647 Coffee on East Market Street, Artisan Coffee on Canton Road, and Angel Falls Coffee Company in Highland Square. He also points to Mustard Seed Market & Cafe as a

For classic Akron dining, Mayor Malik recommends Luigi’s in Northside, a longtime institution known as much for its atmosphere and history as for its pizza, along with Swensons Drive-In, which he says remains a uniquely Akron experience. When he’s in the mood for Mediterranean or international flavors, he highlights Aladdin’s in Highland Square, Saffron Patch in the Merriman Valley, and Cilantro downtown as examples of the diversity and creativity that continue to shape Akron’s food scene. “Local restaurants are where so much of city life happens,” says Mayor Malik. “They’re where people reconnect after work, celebrate milestones, meet neighbors, and support local families and entrepreneurs. Every time you choose to eat local, you’re investing back into the community and helping keep Akron’s neighborhoods vibrant and connected.”

From upscale dining to hometown favorites, Mayor Sherer says Canton’s restaurant scene reflects the heart and personality of the community itself. “Canton is fortunate to have so many wonderful, unique, locally owned and operated restaurants to choose from,” says Mayor Sherer. “Our local restaurant owners help make Canton a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.” For a night out, he enjoys the atmosphere and Italian cuisine at Lucca Downtown, while The Willow Bistro offers a relaxed setting paired with creative dishes and exceptional service. Longtime Canton staples like Sparta Steak House & Lounge and Desert Inn bring tradition, familiar faces, and flavors that have become part of the community’s fabric, with Desert Inn remaining a favorite for its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Sparta Steak House & Lounge

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Mayor Sherer says Canton’s restaurants are more than just places to eat—they are gathering places where friendships are made, stories are shared, and the community comes together.

Courtesy of Bombay Sitar

George’s Lounge and Jerzees Cafe, both known for lively crowds and community spirit. For Asian-inspired dishes and sushi, Basil Asian Bistro remains a favorite, while Carpe Diem Coffee Shop is a go-to stop for coffee, conversation, and a welcoming downtown vibe.

Bombay Sitar

Sarah’s Vineyard

Rachel Hagemeier

President and CEO of the Canton Symphony Orchestra the patio area), and they offer many gluten-free options. Speaking of options, Gervasi Destinations offers plenty. The Bistro for a fancy night out (where I spend my anniversary every year); The Crush House for the best pork chops in the world; The Still House for live music and unique cocktails; The Piazza for a summertime patio experience; and their two off-property restaurants: The Twisted Olive in Green and Olinda in Jackson Township—almost everything on the menu is gluten free!

There is no shortage of fun places to eat in Northeast Ohio. Just a few of my Canton and North Canton favorites are Bombay Sitar, which has the loveliest people and great Indian food. I’ve never had a bad meal there. And then there is Table Six, where you can sit at the bar and have a couple of free tacos (always fun and different) on Tuesdays. Plus, their espresso martini is killer! When I can spare some time in the afternoon, I like to go to Walkie Talkie Coffee, where they serve delicious turmeric lattes.

hat’s better than sitting outside on a perfect summer night in Northeast Ohio at a local winery or brewery? It doesn’t get much better than that—unless you add in the company of family and good friends. After all, we know how to appreciate good things in Ohio. And when the evening is fine, you’re with people you care about, and you have a favorite beverage in front of you (probably with snacks or a farm-fresh feast), it’s easy to create another memorable Akron-Canton moment.

A little further north of me is The Farmer’s Rail in Hudson (great bourbon, wonderful cuts of meat, and a fun atmosphere) and The Green Dragon Inn in Akron, which is my go-to place for anything nerdy. Order a drink, get a sandwich, and select from their menu of board games. As I said, there’s no shortage of fun and fabulous dining in this area.

Courtesy of Gervasi Vineyard

Heading to Massillon is Social at the Stone House, which is a great restaurant with tons of amazing food and well-crafted cocktails. It is in an old house and has a spooky vibe, especially at Halloween. The third floor is perfect for a private party (I love Gervasi Wine Cave 8 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

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The Wine Mill

Located on the banks of the Cuyahoga River, Missing Mountain offers one of the best outdoor patio experiences in Summit County. The rustic and relaxed atmosphere of Sarah’s Vineyard feels like a hidden countryside retreat right here in Northeast Ohio. In downtown Akron, inside the former Swinehart Tire Factory, Lock 15 Brewing Co. sits alongside the Cascade Valley Trailhead and the historic Mustill Store Museum on the Towpath Trail.

Courtesy of Bell Tower Brewing Co.

For us, wellness has always been more than movement. It’s about community, connection, slowing down, and finding joy in the simple moments. Sometimes it looks like yoga and meditation, and other times it looks like sharing a glass of wine with friends on a vineyard patio or enjoying a locally brewed beer beside the river with family. Maybe one of our favorite spots will become your favorite, too.

We also love going to Bell Tower Brewing Co., where they have transformed an historic building of sacred origin into a welcoming brewpub, carefully preserving many of the original architectural details and reclaimed artifacts. Or there is Cellar 59 wine bar, which is inside a beautifully restored 19th-century farmhouse, combining rustic charm with warm hospitality. 750ml Akron is among the boutiques and shops of Fairlawn’s Pilgrim Square and offers a refined yet approachable wine and cocktail experience.

Bell Tower Brewing Co.

Courtesy of HiHO Brewing Co.

Nici Munyer and the Yoga Teachers at HARVEST yoga + wellness studio

Bender’s Tavern

HiHO Brewing Co.

TRIAD

Founded in 1994, TRIAD crafts award-winning marketing and design solutions for businesses, government, nonprofits, and foundations. For families with young kiddos, TRIAD recommends HiHO Brewing Co. in Cuyahoga Falls. Mom and Dad can enjoy a craft beer while the kids chow down on wood-fired pizza and carrots from their hummus plate. HiHO has a wide variety of craft beers to choose from and is always working on something new. What sets HiHo apart are the people and the atmosphere. You won’t find a nicer, more laid-back group. At the opposite end of Front Street in CF, you’ll find MacArthur’s Brewhouse, a small but mighty brewery that brings in a rotation of fantastic food trucks. Oak and Olive, one of the newest additions to Downtown Cuyahoga Falls, offers dark and moody speakeasy vibes with overthe-top drink presentations. Order 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 9

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For a little spiritual atmosphere, you can’t beat Crafted Artisan Meadery. It’s off the beaten path (Waterloo Road in Mogadore), but it’s worth the commute. Travel due north and enjoy Kent’s Bell Tower Brewing Co. Enjoy your beverages while comparing the renovations of two places of worship turned into places to pour and sip. Akronym Brewing

Don’t miss the Missings: Missing Mountain in Cuyahoga Falls has one of the best outdoor patios around, and Missing Falls in Downtown Akron has some of the best wings. Try the Sassy Sauce. You’ll thank us. For those traveling throughout Greater Akron-Canton, TRIAD suggests becoming a regular at multiple breweries, such as Pub Club at Sandy Springs Brewing Company in Minerva (Stark County). You should never be too far away from good beer and a bartender who knows your name.

Jan Kenepp and Kathy Hampton

As best friends for decades, we’ve been to many wineries and breweries—including fun brewpubs in Dublin and London, as well as fabulous wineries in upstate New York and charming cafes in Paris. Having sampled near and far, we can say that Northeast Ohio wineries and breweries hold their own. One of our favorites is North Water Street Brewing—a chill brewery in 10 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

Courtesy of Wadsworth Brewing Company

the Black Widow if you like tequila drinks served in a glowing briefcase with billowing smoke.

Kent with ample indoor space and garage doors that open to the patio. Located in the recently branded “Mill District,” North Water focuses on sustainability and environmental responsibility and is family-friendly. They offer live music, trivia, books, and games for all ages, along with a full bar with great cocktails and, of course, great beer! Be sure to check out their pizza kitchen—Good Day Oven Pizza—delicious! Another great place is the Wadsworth Brewing Company on the Square in Wadsworth. We love old buildings with brick walls, large windows, and inviting atmospheres— and beer, of course (try the Chocolate Raspberry Stout). WBC offers outdoor seating (when it’s not raining or snowing), and dogs are welcome on the patio. If you’re in the area, stop by and check out this family-owned brewery.

Wadsworth Brewing Company

Mill in Peninsula. The big question is: Why haven’t we gone there? At 170 years young, it has an old, quaint look and a menu featuring cheese boards, mason jar salads (yes, please!), skillet dips, flatbreads, and a dessert called a S’mores Skillet Dip. We definitely are going there soon, with plans to order a Graham Beck Brut Rosé. So many breweries and wineries, so little time! Here’s to more spirited spirits from Jan and Kathy.

It’s impossible to name every great, iconic restaurant (or sweet-treat spot) in the Akron-Canton region. Here are a few more favorites: Belgrage Gardens Bender’s Tavern Blue Door Cafe & Bakery Dean Martin’s Lanning’s Diamond Grille

Akronym Brewing in Downtown Akron is a local favorite, and who can resist a beer name like the Black Hat German Schwarzbier (a German-style dark lager)? Although nothing beats having a Guinness in Ireland, Akron doesn’t miss out on great stouts at Akronym. Plus, they have an excellent menu (try the pretzels), open patio season, and seasonal specials (Goat Yoga! Books and Brews!). We’re all about Goat Yoga, so look for us there.

Good Company

With so many eclectic wineries and breweries in Greater Akron-Canton, we’re always on the lookout for something new, including places we can introduce to our adult children (and sometimes grandchildren) and friends. On our short list is The Wine

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Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Ken Stewart’s Grille Laconi’s Luigi’s Maddalena’s Authentic Italian Cuisine Marques Restaurant New Era Cafe Strickland’s Frozen Custard Swenson’s

Since 1953, Arnold’s Candies has been a pillar of the Akron confectionery landscape. This small, familyowned business in Ellet makes oldfashioned, homestyle candy using

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Akron’s famous Kidney Bean Salad

Courtesy of Arnold’s Candies

Pav’s Creamery

time-honored cooking methods and traditional ingredients. Their peanut brittle is legendary, but so are their other classic candies (peppermint puffs, butter mints, and chocolates). Find Arnold’s Candies at farmers’ markets and in stores nationwide.

Courtesy of Ben Heggy’s

The Ben Heggy Candy Company has built a rich tradition of premium handcrafted chocolates and candies for over 100 years. Based in Canton and loved worldwide, you can order Ben Heggy’s treats online, but they are also available locally at Ben Heggy Chocolates on Cleveland Avenue; at the Ben Heggy Nut Shop at the Hall of Fame Village; and at the Ben Heggy Nut Shop on Tuscarawas, where they also serve great burgers, fries, and ice cream in an old-fashioned soda shop atmosphere.

Ben Heggy’s Candy Company

The largest manufacturer of Swiss cheese in the nation (one-third of the American-made supply) is in the little town of Brewster in Stark County.

Brewster Cheese is a Certified Woman-Owned Business that produces more than 100 million pounds of award-winning, all-natural Swiss cheese every year. Are they cheesy? You bet they are! Be sure to try DeVitis Fine Italian Foods. DeVitis was established in the mid-1920s when Italian immigrant Frank DeVitis arrived in the United States. In the early 1950s, Frank opened Frank’s Fruits & Vegetables in a converted gas station, where his 20-year-old son Angelo joined him. Together, they built a family business that has lasted for generations. If you want authentic Italian flavors, look no further than DeVitis. One local Akron restaurant, Nick Anthe’s, is gone now, but memories of the warm hospitality and dishes everyone remembers still remain. Nick Anthe’s legendary Kidney Bean Salad is one such recipe. Find out why this Akron-famous recipe is so delicious when you order it at DeVitas Fine Italian Foods (on E. Tallmadge Avenue in Akron), Papa Joe’s Restaurant (on Akron Peninsula Road), and Wise Guys Lounge & Grill (on North Main Street in Akron). Do you want the recipes for Barberton chicken, sauerkraut balls, Waterloo Restaurant’s coconut-cream pie, or other Akron favorites? Are you interested in the connections between each recipe and people, places, times, or experiences that inspired them? Would you like menu ideas and tips? Then pick up a copy of “Jane Snow Cooks: Spirited Recipes and Stories” (University of Akron Press). Jane is the beloved,

now-retired food editor for the Akron Beacon Journal. She went to great lengths to discover and share recipe secrets in a book that celebrates Akron and the food that defines us. Pav’s Creamery—“Where Life Is Sweet”—has been a Portage Lakes staple since 1969, serving freshly made custard, homemade hard ice cream, yogurts, and sorbets. With more than 30 flavors and additional locations in Green, North Canton, and Cuyahoga Falls, you’ll want to sample each one. Krispy Kreme was founded by Vernon Rudolph, who bought a yeast-raised recipe from a New Orleans chef, rented a building in 1937 in historic Old Salem, NC, and began selling to local grocery stores. By 1939, the first Krispy Kreme bakery outside the South opened on South Maple Street in Akron. When the “HOT” light is on, a fresh, warm, melt-inyour-mouth donut may be calling your name. Peanut Shoppe. The delicious aroma of roasting nuts will lead you to this downtown Akron anchor that’s been in business since Peanut Shoppe the 1930s. 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 11

Coffee on Wheels, Vince and Anne Bell

ince and Anne Bell are living their dream. It’s not the dream either one of them originally envisioned—a linear path of college followed by marriage and jobs that promised upward mobility—but it is perfect for them. Exactly what are they doing? They are selling coffee from a truck. Specifically, a Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck. Before Vince and Anne met as students at Kent State University, each of them followed a fairly traditional path. He was born in Goodyear Heights and studied construction management; she came from Latrobe, Pennsylvania, and studied fashion design and merchandising. They met. They married. After college, they got jobs with regular hours, good pay, promotions, and healthcare benefits. That lifestyle suits many people, but Vince and Anne quickly realized that the basic nine-to-five did not satisfy either one of them. They wanted more flexibility and time together. They wanted to make a difference and contribute meaningfully to their community. They wanted to work for themselves. While they considered how to navigate their work situations, they traveled to Italy for vacation. It was a pivotal trip. They fell in love with the people, the food, and especially the coffee. “Coffee is different in Italy,” Anne says (and Vince agrees). “In Italy, there’s an entire culture around coffee.” When they returned, they bought an espresso machine and tried to recreate the laid-back Italian vibe at home. And they kept thinking and talking about what they wanted to do next. In 2025, they upended their lives by selling their house and moving to a

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Vince and Anne Bell

small community in Summit County. That transition seemed to shake things up because, as they spent time together renovating their new space, they researched new professional possibilities. Eventually, they discovered Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee. A coffee shop on wheels. The family-owned company, launched in 2020 and headquartered in Kentucky, checked every box that mattered to them—community-minded and perfect for the life they wanted to build together. Within two months, they’d driven to Kentucky, signed on, and come home with their Travelin’ Tom’s truck. “We didn’t want to overthink it,” says Vince. “We knew it was the right thing for us.” Officially, they are “Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Hudson,” but they serve communities outside of Hudson, too—Atwater, Brecksville, Broadview Heights, Green, Hartville, Mantua, Northfield, Randolph, Ravenna, Rootstown, Twinsburg, and Uniontown. You might see their truck at public gatherings—athletic events, festivals, school functions—or you might book

them for private celebrations and corporate events. Whenever you do see the Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Hudson coffee truck, you’re in for a treat. With Vince and Anne, you’ll meet a husband-andwife duo whose good vibes and friendly service make every order special. Your beverage will be made to order—coffee, tea, lemonade, or refreshers—with dairy-free, glutenfree, caffeine-free, or Kosher options. Vince and Anne love coffee (Anne prefers cold brew with oat milk and French vanilla flavoring; Vince’s favorite is cappuccino). But what they love most is how their lives have evolved. Every day, they meet new people and serve them fresh coffee. When the day is done, they grab takeout from a favorite restaurant, drive their truck home, and sit down to dinner together. It’s their dream life—and they are living it, one cup of coffee at a time. Check them out on Facebook or X. @travelintomscoffeeofhudson

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Courtesy of Graf’s Garden Shop

Graf’s Garden Shop, Landscape & Farm Market

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e love to support the Greater Akron-Canton Region’s wonderfully diverse mix of retail shops, farmer and produce markets, and garden centers. Our dynamic, thriving communities are sustained in large part by these locally owned and operated businesses, and we have great appreciation for the hardworking entrepreneurs who make them possible. Stroll through open markets, shop for a perfect gift, browse for flowers and plants at garden centers, make holidays even more special, or pause to chat with shopkeepers or friends—it’s all part of fostering our region’s strong community ties.

Shopping Destinations Love to shop? On the hunt for unique, artisan-made gifts? Want vintage pieces to decorate your home? Seeking traditional, classic threads or jewelry? Searching for that perfect keepsake? Look no further for everything and anything your heart desires. Shopping in Downtown Cuyahoga Falls is a celebration of individuality. Streets are lined with thoughtfully curated boutiques, artisan body care products, hand-poured candles, hand-printed apparel, antiques and vintage goods, an arcade, yarn, books, accessories, alternative fashion, and great dining options. Beyond shopping and dining, festivals and other social activities are held year-round.

Zeber-Martell Gallery & Clay Studio

Every year, Hartville—a village located between Akron and Canton—brings in two million visitors who are drawn by its retail scene. Discover the year-round Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market, which is the largest of its kind in Ohio. Browse your way through Hartville Hardware & Lumber, the largest independent home center store in the country. Indulge your sweet tooth at Hartville Chocolate Companies. Pick up fresh-cut flowers at Bloom Hill Farm. Find everything from fashions to keepsakes at The Shops at Hartville Kitchen and then enjoy a homestyle meal from the Hartville Kitchen. Hudson’s First & Main is an upscale lifestyle shopping center located in the heart of historic downtown Hudson, featuring a blend of national chains, unique locally owned shops, and award-winning restaurants. In its park-like setting, it hosts more

Hudson’s First & Main

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than a dozen events annually, including “Art on the Green,” a summer art show presented for more than 40 years by the Hudson Society of Artists. With ample parking, easy access, and a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere, First & Main is a perfect place to shop, share a meal with family and friends, or enjoy an evening out. Main Street Kent is home to many independently owned shops; art galleries and public art; live music, restaurants and pubs; and outdoor green spaces. Ample on-street and other parking areas make it easy to access shopping, and Kent State University is just a short walk away. While you are there, be sure to walk through the charming Acorn Alley. Spend a memorable day at historic Medina Square. You can shop in boutiques that feature gifts, fashion, and home décor; dine at locally owned restaurants; pamper yourself at a spa; go to the seasonal Medina Square Farmer’s Market; attend a festival; or explore gaming spots.

A few more places to quench your shopping thirst Arrowhead Vintage and Handmade Goods has “fun stuff for weird 16 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

The Bomb Shelter

people.” Located in Canton’s Arts District, this locally owned shop offers art prints, knitwear, and more. Blimp City Bike and Hike is conveniently located off the Towpath Trail in the Merriman Valley (Akron) and has e-bikes and regular bikes for sale and rent. The Bomb Shelter in Akron’s Middlebury neighborhood has a wide selection of vintage items, from women’s and men’s clothing to furniture to hardware (think antique doorknobs and light fixtures). Shopping at The Bomb Shelter is a step back in time.

Lucky Shoes in Fairlawn and Canton. Founded a century ago, this shoe store pairs old-fashioned customer service with the latest styles for the entire family. Main Street Modern in Canton buys and sells high-end, mid-century furniture, and decorative arts. They also offer restoration services. Medina Antique Mall has more than 500 dealer spaces under one roof. With antiques, collectibles, home furnishings, jewelry, coins, and sports memorabilia, it’s a one-stop shopping destination.

City Brocante Vintage in the heart of downtown Cuyahoga Falls offers carefully curated antique, vintage, retro-inspired home décor and gifts. Jewelry, home décor, and books— 40s-era chic to 70s kitsch.

Modern Traditions embraces the charm of yesteryear with thoughtfully selected vintage clothing. Check them out at Rubber City Comics in Akron and Magic City Comics in Barberton.

The Hidden Pearl in downtown Cuyahoga Falls burgeons with fine and fun vintage that is affordable enough for the new collector and intense enough for the addicted. Vintage clothing, hats, jewelry, and more.

Off the Wagon (Kent, Medina, and Chagrin Falls) features eclectic collections of fun, weird, and strange gags, games, and gifts, and Red Letter Days (Kent) sells pens, journals, books, art tools.

House. Shop for beautiful basics and original “one-offs” in this charming Hudson boutique. House has what you want to make your space cozier.

At Stars-N-Stripes Company (in Barberton), military might is on display with flags, gear, and anything else needed to celebrate our armed forces.

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Michael and Claudia Martell, Zeber-Martell Gallery & Clay Studio

The Toys Time Forgot in Canal Fulton. Feeling nostalgic? Find your favorite childhood toys and classic games in a collection that spans decades.

Artisans We Love Shopping at the Don Drumm Studios & Gallery is an experience you won’t forget. Walking through room after room filled with beautiful, artistic pieces—jewelry, wall hangings, textiles, glass, ceramics, and metal—you will be dazzled. Buy a unique wedding or holiday gift, and have it wrapped in their Art from Don signature purple bag Drumm Studios with colorful ribbons. Go with a friend and just wander around. Located on Crouse Street in Akron, the gallery showcases handcrafted works by more than 500 North American artists. At River Light Gallery in Peninsula, you’ll find works by more than 50 Northeast Ohio artists and artisans with selections that rotate regularly.

The Sage + Lavender Collective in Cuyahoga Falls is a small, woman-owned business that celebrates creativity, women’s entrepreneurship, and the beauty of handmade goods, featuring 10 local microbusinesses. Explore the artistry of handcrafted ceramics made in Akron at ZeberMartell Gallery & Clay Studio on Furnace Street. They offer decorative and functional clay pieces for every occasion—garden chimes and lanterns, holiday ornaments, jewelry, and more. Plus, you can explore your inner artist by taking classes to learn how to throw a vessel on the potter’s wheel.

Beyond the Garden Gate: Garden Centers We have some serious gardeners in Greater Akron-Canton. And we have equally fervent chefs who seek out the freshest produce for farm-totable meals. Fortunately, we also have farmers and growers who share our passion for plants. It’s a symbiotic relationship. Akron’s Finest Mulch is a father-son business that was founded more than 25 years ago. When you step into their fully stocked nursery, you will find everything you need to create a

lush, vibrant garden. Plus, they offer spring cleanup, landscaping design, hardscape installation, and other lawn and garden services. Centrally located off Route 480 in Twinsburg, Kollman’s Greenhouse and Garden Center offers an extraordinary selection of unique and specialty plants. Family-owned and operated, they strive to meet customers’ changing needs by providing innovative plant material, new varieties of plants, and great customer service. They also welcome groups of all ages for personal tours of the facility, and if your organization is looking for a speaker, they’re happy to help with that, too! Petitti Garden Centers is a familyowned home and garden business with 10 locations—including Bath Township, Canton-Jackson Township, and Tallmadge. For gardeners from novice to expert, Petitti’s is a great choice, in part because 98% of the plants sold at Petitti’s are grown right here in Northeast Ohio, helping to ensure quality, climate hardiness, and availability. If you’re looking for great quality plants for a classic landscape—or the newest hot trends in gardening— Suncrest Gardens in Akron will 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 17

exceed your expectations. They offer an impressive selection of annual, tropical, and perennial plants and are ready, willing, and able to help you with total landscaping or garden renovation. The garden center has a gallery atmosphere and features an inspiring collection of artful giftware, home and garden accents, pottery, fountains, and more. Whether you are a gardening novice or a Master Gardener, you can find what you need at Suncrest Gardens.

Farm and Produce Markets

Bauman Orchards in Rittman has grown and sold fresh produce— apples, peaches, plums, sweet corn, and more—since 1929. Their 117 acres of land include 20,000 apple trees (25 varieties) and 3,000 peach trees (15 varieties). The cider presses are busy from September through May, making fresh cider sold in their farm market along with homemade pies and cookies, gift baskets, and plenty of produce. Beckwith’s Orchards in Ravenna has been family-owned and operated since 1878. Their season begins in late July with peaches, nectarines, and corn, continuing into the fall with apples, pumpkins, gourds, and cider. The gift shop is filled with reasonably priced items such as candles, soup and dip mixes, local honey and maple syrup, and ornaments. Their fresh-baked pies are superb. With the Portage County Hike and Bike Trail and Towner’s Woods nearby, you can easily bike to Beckwith’s. Start your Saturday at the Canton Farmers Market, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy free activities and live music. The market has indoor and outdoor seasons, so you have year-round opportunities to find the best of all things local. It hosts special events, visiting vendors, and fun extras that you won’t want to miss. 18 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

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In Northeast Ohio, we know how to appreciate post-winter days, especially when the sun is shining. Throw in some fresh corn or watermelon—or a freshly picked apple in the fall—and you have the makings of a perfect day, courtesy of our local farm and produce markets.

Canton Mayor William Sherer at the Canton Farmers Market

Every Saturday—rain or shine—the Cuyahoga Valley Farmers’ Market (in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park) is open for business. From early May until late October, the Summer Market is at Howe Meadow in Peninsula; the remainder of the year, the Winter Market moves to Old Trail School. Both locations showcase vendors and makers from a 100-mile radius, offering breads and baked goods; coffee and tea; herbs, flowers, and nursery plants; and fruits and vegetables. And since you’re already in the park, you can hike before or after you shop. Graf’s Garden Shop, Landscape & Farm Market on White Pond Drive in Akron had its start in 1910 when Swiss immigrant Ernest Graf brought his farming know-how to America. Generations (and many changes) later, his descendants still run the business, which is open year-round. There is a garden shop, flower truck, and farm market, along with landscaping and design services, floral design workshops, and classes on creating your own fairy gardens and holiday arrangements. Graf’s is truly more than “just” a garden center.

The Haymaker Farmers’ Market in Kent is Portage County’s oldest producers-only farmers’ market. Open year-round on Saturdays, the market offers locally grown and produced items that include prepared foods; fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs; cut flowers; garden starts and perennials; jams and jellies; grassfed meats; honey; baked goods; and locally roasted coffee. The market’s main focus is bringing local food producers and the community together in a vibrant gathering place. Every Saturday from early June to mid-October, the Hudson Farmers Market on the beautiful Village Green welcomes produce and specialty food vendors from across Northeast Ohio. A collaborative, volunteer-run effort dedicated to preserving Hudson’s unique character, this market actively supports local artisan producers, small businesses, and the surrounding community. Since opening in 2006 with 25 vendors, it has grown to more than 40 vendors, all located within a 100-mile radius of Hudson. Purple Brown Farm Store in Peninsula sources food from Northeast Ohio

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the fields, alongside an abundance of delicious homemade goodies. In the fall, you can wander through its three-acre corn maze.

Courtesy of Akron/Summit CVB

Szalay’s Farm & Market

The Greater Akron-Canton area is a gateway to Amish Country, which begins in southern Stark County. Shop for handmade furniture, eat oldstyle homemade food, and enjoy the peaceful farmland south of Canton. One favorite place is Lehman’s in Kidron (a one-of-a-kind store that is dedicated to simple living). When in Kenmore, you’ll enjoy the fun and funky shops and cool neighborhood vibe, but keep an eye out for the elusive Grassman, the area’s own version of Bigfoot. Sightings over the decades have drawn cryptozoological investigators from across the world. Why he (she?) is called Grassman has been lost to time.

The Leaf Store

growers and regenerative, organic, and sustainable artisans, as well as beverages from B Certified companies and other carbon-neutral producers. In doing so, it nourishes our local tables as well as the Ohio food and farm communities. The Stow Community Farmer’s Market strives to bring a true sense of community to customers in a friendly, hometown environment. When you shop here, you support 50 small businesses with dollars that stay local. It is a great way to reconnect with small farmers, artisan bakers, local artisans, and neighbors. The market also spotlights a local nonprofit each week, features live music while you shop, and provides a Kidz Patch activity area for children. When it is in season, there’s nothing quite like fresh corn from Szalay’s Farm & Market, located in the Cuyahoga Valley. Voted Akron’s Best Farm Market and one of Northeast Ohio’s Top 100 Destinations, Szalay’s began in 1931 as a vegetable farm. Today, Szalay’s is a sweet corn farm and an old-fashioned market offering fruits and vegetables fresh from

Yankee Peddler Festival—Held at Clay’s Resort, this festival will take you back to 1776. Artisans and crafters fashion their wares in rustic shops, and militias and mountain men stroll the grounds in an authentic pioneer setting. Enjoy foods cooked over open fires and a full day of entertainment that includes magicians, puppets, and musicians galore.

Yankee Peddler Festival

There is no shortage of festivals and art shows in Greater Akron-Canton. There are far too many to list—but here are a few highlights: Boston Mills Arts Fest—One of the region’s premier fine art shows, this event spans two weekends each summer at Boston Mills-Brandywine in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Each weekend features a distinct lineup of 150 artists, bringing 300 total artists from across the country. Ohio Mart—Held at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, this annual artisan craft showcase is an autumn tradition for many. Expect to find artisans working with sculpture, garden art, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and hand-crafted furniture—and be sure to try the famous hot gingerbread. Made in Ohio Festival—This familyfriendly event is the perfect way to explore the diverse talents of Ohio’s creators, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and experience the charm of Hale Farm & Village, one of Ohio’s premier cultural destinations.

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Courtesy of The Cleveland Orchestra

Blossom Music Center

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The 1920s atmospheric Akron Civic Theatre, designed by renowned Austrian-born architect John Eberson, has been restored to its original grandeur. With a twinkling, starlit sky and clouds that move across the ceiling, the interior replicates an exotic garden at night. In addition to the main stage, the more intimate John, James, and Clara Knight Stage, with its contemporary design, great acoustics, cutting-edge lighting, and flexibility, provides everything from small theatrical productions to rock concerts to private corporate events. The Akron Civic is a fantastic place to hear and see music, dance, and theater—in a venue that will charm your heart.

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very day, all year long, the Greater Akron-Canton Region buzzes with live performances. From free concerts on porches and dancing in local parks, to theatrical productions featuring professional and local talent alike, to world-class music in gorgeous concert halls, there’s no shortage of entertainment options.

Akron Symphony is the Orchestra and more than the Orchestra. It is also the Akron Symphony Chorus, the Akron Youth Symphony, the Akron Youth Philharmonic, and Gospel Meets Symphony. In short, Akron Symphony has enriched the lives of audiences, musicians, and our community since 1949, when Mabel Lamborn Graham received $500 in “seed money” to get it off the ground. It was money well spent! Founded in 1989, the Alliance Symphony Orchestra brings together the musical skills of area residents, music educators, college students, professors, and talented high school musicians. The City of Alliance is one of a handful of communities of its size in the nation that can boast having a symphony orchestra. It is a testament to the community that they support this hometown treasure.

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One of the country’s three largest Baroque orchestras, Apollo’s Fire brings to life the music of the past for audiences of today. Apollo’s Fire has performed sold-out concerts at Carnegie Hall, the BBC Proms, the Royal Theatre of Madrid, the Tanglewood Festival, and elsewhere, but the musicians particularly love to bring their world-class performances to your doorstep in an ongoing “tour” of Northeast Ohio neighborhoods.

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Gospel Meets Symphony with the Akron Symphony Orchestra

Ballet Theatre of Ohio is a pre-professional ballet company that features professional guest artists for spring and fall performances at the historic Akron Civic Theatre. Their holiday performance of “The Nutcracker”—which runs over two weekends in November and December—is a favorite for families, ballet lovers, and anyone who wants to get into the holiday spirit. Blossom Music Center—the summer home for the worldfamous Cleveland Orchestra—is a beautiful outdoor amphitheater in Cuyahoga Falls. Blossom also hosts rock, country, and

Akron Civic Theatre

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indie concerts, presented by Live Nation. Pack a picnic, order full-service open-air dining at the Blossom Grille, or grab food and beverages from one of the concessions—however you dine, enjoy a night under the stars at Blossom.

Jeff Klaum

BLU Jazz+—a live music venue in downtown Akron—presents eclectic jazz performances enhanced by a relaxing atmosphere, a chef-driven menu of seasonal fare, a full-service bar with signature cocktails, and a jazz photography and memorabilia gallery. Capture the vibe of New York City jazz clubs at the “retro” midcentury modern feel that is BLU Jazz+.

BLU Jazz+

Founded in 1965, the Canton Ballet is an acclaimed dance school and pre-professional company that is deeply committed to enriching our community through the art of dance and its inspired public productions and outreach programs. Spring and fall performances are held at the beautiful, historic Canton Palace Theatre. If you are looking for live music, dancing, stand-up comedy, and other live entertainment, look no further than the historic Canton Music Block in the heart of Canton’s thriving arts district. Venues such as George’s Lounge and The Auricle Venue + Bar showcase a variety of local and touring groups, including the blues, jazz, 90s dance-party hits, and New Wave. Designed in the 1920s by renowned Austrian-born architect John Eberson, the Canton Palace Theatre re-creates a Spanish courtyard on a starry midsummer night. This multipurpose entertainment facility hosts more than 300 events annually and 22 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

is a cornerstone of the Canton Arts District. Come for the beauty and stay for the live performances, films, and much more. Since 1938, the Canton Symphony Orchestra has presented live standard and contemporary orchestral music, commissioned new music, and showcased established guest soloists as well as new young talent. Its MasterWorks Series incorporates undiscovered and underappreciated classical music and musicians; the Pops Series pairs familiar orchestral programming with amazing local bands; and the Divergent Sounds Series combines classical music with unexpected genres such as hip-hop, rock, and punk. Concerts take place in Zimmerman Hall, named after the beloved late Maestro Gerhardt Zimmerman. The Center for Applied Theatre and Active Culture (CATAC) on Balch Street in Akron aims to “embolden innovative performances and artist-centered events that nurture social change and foster community.” CATAC is the home base for performances by the Chameleon Village Theatre Collective, the Gum-Dip Theatre, QuTheatr, and others, as they create new work and experiment with new forms of expression. Every June, Canal Fulton hosts Country Fest, a weekend of live country music. Set in Clay’s Park Resort, this event combines chart-topping country hits with perfect Ohio camping experiences. Grab your camping gear and plan to stay on-site all weekend at one of Clay Park’s campsites. It’s a party you won’t want to miss. Named in honor of the past chair and CEO of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Edwin J. Thomas, the E.J. Performing Arts Hall is owned and operated by The University of Akron. E.J. is home to the Akron Symphony Orchestra, Tuesday Musical, Children’s Concert Society, and the Akron Youth Symphony. It presents its own season of more than 30 events each year, including holiday specials, arts extravaganzas, popular artists, dance, family shows, and Broadway in Akron, a Broadway season created especially for Akron

and presented by Playhouse Square in partnership with The University of Akron. The G.A.R. Hall is home to Voices in the Valley roots music concerts from local, national, and international touring artists. Built in 1851 as a one-room schoolhouse and originally known as the Grand Army of the Republic Hall, it was renovated in 1888 to become a meeting place for Civil War veterans. Decades later, it was purchased at auction and refurbished before becoming a concert hall in 2015. Located in the heart of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, operated by the Peninsula Foundation, and recently renovated for accessibility, the G.A.R. Hall is (as one audience member noted) “like walking into a shoe box diorama from the past.” Part of a mixed-use redevelopment initiative to create a “live, work, and play” environment in Akron’s east end, the Goodyear Theater’s 1,400-plus-seat performance space is a perfect venue for live music, theatrical productions, and touring stage performances. In addition to being an ideal venue for large events and organizational group retreats, the Happy Days Lodge is home to live music and unforgettable performances. Located in and managed by the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and dating back to the New Deal under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Happy Days’ rustic charm and earthy elegance offers access to woodlands, rock outcroppings, an easily accessible park trailhead, and (of course) great music. Sponsored by the City of Akron, c the Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival honors the legacy of the legendary founding artistic

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Jilly’s Music Room

At Jilly’s in Akron’s Northside District, you’ll find a sizzling live music venue with a great menu—100% gluten-free, locally-sourced, and made fresh to order—along with craft cocktails, premium wines, more than 100 kinds of beer, and a huge selection of alcohol-free options. It’s all about the music, the food, and the atmosphere at Jilly’s.

Based in the Park Theatre in Barberton, Magical Theatre Company is Northeast Ohio’s only professional resident and touring theater for children. Along with productions, workshops, touring shows, camps, and educational programming, the Company introduces young people to theater, provides positive messages through drama, develops creativity, improves communication

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The Kent Stage—constructed in 1927 as a silent movie and vaudevillian theater—was transformed in 2002 when the Western Reserve Folk Arts Association took over management and turned it into a concert venue. With a capacity of more than 640 seats, this intimate hall—called the

Lock 3 hosts affordable, familyfriendly entertainment yearround. Located in the heart of Akron next to the Akron Civic Theatre, it features outdoor weekend concerts, festivals, community events, the City of Akron’s official Fourth of July fireworks display, and outdoor ice-skating rinks in winter, to name a few. Inviting, beautiful, ADA accessible, and recently renovated—Lock 3 is a welcoming gathering place for the young and the young at heart.

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The Hudson Players was founded in the 1920s, paused in the 1930s, and revived in 1945 to stage more than 225 productions across eight decades of community theater. With performances in the Barlow Community Center in Hudson, The Hudson Players welcomes professionals and amateurs, actors and stagehands, young and old—all united with the common goal of creating quality theater, making good friends, and providing memorable times for audiences and participants alike.

Best Acoustic Venue in Northeast Ohio by The Plain Dealer—hosts about 150 concerts a year as well as a variety of music festivals.

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director of Ohio Ballet with free public performances by respected dance companies. Held during the summer in a variety of local parks (and including interactive programming for children prior to performances), each performing dance company shares the common thread of Poll’s commitment to impeccably high artistic standards.

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skills, builds teamwork, and offers alternative problem-solving methods. It’s magical! Makeshift Theater has created a space where talented individuals can experiment, learn, and grow in their craft and in the art of live performance—while offering audiences of every background a place for healing, connection, and entertainment. Its permanent home is in the Coach House Theatre at the Akron Woman’s City Club in West Akron.

Musica is an independent live music venue and tavern in Downtown Akron’s historic arts district. Featuring original live music, dance parties, DJs, and comedians, Musica claims to put on the best concerts and dance parties in the city. The Nightlight Cinema on High Street in Akron’s Historic Arts District is passionate about showing exceptional films on the big screen. From cult to classic to indie to foreign films, the Nightlight (launched in 2014) promotes cinema and community through an arthouse experience. As

one patron noted, it’s “like watching movies with a friend who has their own theater room.” Akron’s Northside District is a hip residential arts and entertainment area in what was once the city’s red-light quarter. Akron restaurant landmark Luigi’s anchors the District while Jilly’s brings in music fans; Northside Speakeasy serves great cocktails; Northside Marketplace mixes established retailers with startups; Northside Lofts provide elegant urban living; and the Towpath Trail is just 100 yards away.

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The Ohio Shakespeare Festival—on the grounds of Stan Hywet Hall in the summer or in Greystone Hall in the winter—is a professional theater troupe that brings the magic of Shakespeare and his fellow playwrights to vivid life. In celebrating the value and beauty of classic stories, they also reflect the diversity of our modern society. Each first Friday of June, July, and August, the charming Village of Peninsula hosts Peninsula Live. With live bands, food trucks, games, and interactive entertainment, it’s

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a family-friendly summer gathering everyone will enjoy. The Players Guild Theatre was founded in 1932 by Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Truxton, who were committed to fostering a lifelong appreciation of the arts among Canton community members. It’s one of the oldest continually operating theatres in the nation. Performances take place at Kent State University’s Stark Theatre in North Canton. PorchROKR—in Akron’s Highland Square neighborhood—is a one-ofa-kind outdoor music festival experience showcasing some of our area’s best musical talent as they perform on front porches and lawns. With a variety of genres represented and food trucks aplenty, it’s a vibrant, unforgettable August day of music, food, and fun. Porthouse Theatre—founded in 1968 and part of the Kent/Blossom Arts partnership—presents summer outdoor musicals and dramas on the grounds of Blossom Music Center. In addition to mounting fantastic productions, Porthouse provides professional-level training to Kent State University theatre students—actors, designers, technicians, and managers— as part of a professional producing theatre environment. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy in a pavilion or at a picnic table before the show. Akron’s rich jazz and blues history takes center stage every September with the Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival. The festival features world-renowned jazz and blues artists while also spotlighting local musicians and emerging young talent from Greater Akron. During the three-day festival, you can stroll all around Akron—BLU Jazz+, Baxter’s Speakeasy, the Akron Art Museum, Musica, the Mustill Store, Downtown Akron Main Library, Lock 3—to hear the cool cats play.

Ohio Contemporary Ballet at Heinz Poll Summer Dance Festival

The mission of Rubber City Theatre— in residence at The University of Akron—is to bring affordable professional theatre to Akron residents. Together, a family of artists, performers, and storytellers creates innovative, intimate productions that are

rooted in a community-driven spirit. They collaborate with and reflect diverse voices to ensure their work resonates beyond the stage. Throughout the summer, Stark County Community Concerts entertain concertgoers with outdoor live music at a variety of locations across the county. From the Plain Township Amphitheater to The Nash Family Jackson Amphitheater to the North Canton City Hall Portico to the Duncan Plaza in Massillon, these concerts will delight you and your family. Be sure to check out the Summer Serenades in the Park—a collaboration between Stark Parks and the Canton Symphony Orchestra. Bring a chair (or blanket) and a picnic, sit back, and prepare to relax to the summer sounds of nature and music. All concerts are free. The Summit Choral Society presents nationally recognized, awardwinning choral programs such as The Metropolitan Chorus, the Children’s Chorus, and Sing With Me. A particular favorite of appreciative audiences is the spectacular December Candlelight Concerts held in historic St. Bernard’s Church in downtown Akron. Who doesn’t love a tuba? If you have one, you are welcome to join TubaChristmas, a magical, musical performance with hundreds of tubas, sparkly lights, and sing-along songs in a festive setting. Founded nearly 50 years ago by TubaMaestro Tucker Jolly (yes, that’s his real name!), this holiday experience is unforgettable. Performances are held at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall. Tuesday Musical presents year-round classical music concerts. Beyond the stage, it brings guest artists into masterclasses; offers teaching residencies; holds open rehearsals and lectures; provides free tickets for students; and awards scholarships to college students pursuing careers in music performance and education. Tuesday Musical is an Akron gem. Weathervane Playhouse aspires to be one of the foremost communitybased playhouses in the country, and it definitely lives up to that vision. With 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 27

Courtesy of The University of Akron

Courtesy of Earthquaker Devices

EarthQuaker Devices

The University of Akron Steel Drum Band

consistently high-caliber, diverse, challenging, and fun theater productions, it draws appreciative audiences while offering workshops and training initiatives for students pursuing careers in the performing arts.

Boy”) won three Grammy Awards. The Village Voice put it this way in 1978: “Something is obviously going on out there.” Five decades later, that comment still rings true.

Each year, Light Up Downtown in Canton features favorite holiday characters, fireworks, music, and a holiday visit from the Man in Red. Following the show, stroll up and down 16 blocks of downtown, enjoying sleigh rides, food, drink, singing, dancing, and more. The number of iconic musicians who have come from (or to) Greater Akron is impressive, putting Akron on the punk rock map since the 1970s. Musical experimenters who embraced revolutionary sounds include Devo (with Mark Mothersbaugh) of “Whip It” fame, The Pretenders’ Chrissie Hynde, Chi-Pig, the Waitresses, Tin Huey, the Bizarros, the Rubber City Rebels, and Rachel Sweet. Fast-forward 25 years, and you have Akron’s Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney forming the blues-y rock band The Black Keys, whose 2011 album “El Camino” (and its hit single “Lonely

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Akron is home to companies that manufacture the tools musicians depend on—the Music Maker Makers. It’s a niche market, but it’s an important one for musicians. Mollard Conducting Batons, a small family business, produces what many consider the world’s finest conducting batons, used by leading conductors around the globe. Founded in 2004 by musician Jamie Stillman, EarthQuaker Devices makes guitar effects pedals one at a time, by hand, the hard way. One musician’s passion project turned into a lifeline for the musical community. S.I.T. (Stay In Tune) Strings was founded on the belief that a guitar string is more than just an accessory—it’s an integral part of a musician’s sound and voice. Handcrafted strings—manufactured one at a time.

With a passion for global music, a commitment to excellence, and respect for the culture that brought us energetic, uplifting Trinidadian music, Panyard manufactures steel drums right here in Akron. Audio-Technica U.S., Inc. designs critically acclaimed headphones, turntables, and microphones with the belief that high-quality audio should be accessible to everyone. The National Center for Choreography at The University of Akron was founded in 2015 to support working dance artists as they experiment, engage in the creative process, and advocate for their work and for the field. It helps to strengthen the national dance ecosystem as an anchor development space for dance. Founded in 1980, The University of Akron’s Steel Drum Band is one of the nation’s oldest collegiate panorama-style steel bands. The ensemble—consisting of percussion majors at The University of Akron— is dedicated to performing the musical art form of Trinidad and to educating people about the history of pan.

Bruce Ford

you follow your dreams. “There is a real energy in the room right now, and we want to see that going forward,” he says.

Leading the Way at Tuesday Musical— Austin Ferguson

uesday Musical is settling into its 140th year with a new executive director: Austin Ferguson. For Austin (the former director of artistic operations and educational engagement), this promotion is a lifetime in the making. Born and raised in Brilliant, Ohio, Austin comes from a family where music was ever-present. His mother was a church organist, but he gravitated to percussion instead, joining his school band and jazz band, and eventually leading the high school drum line. His high school band director was honest with him: a career in music wouldn’t be easy. After his family suggested The University of Akron, he made the two-hour drive to campus and fell in love—with the energy of the campus, the marching band, and the chance to make music with fellow students, including in the UA Steel Drum Band, something he had never experienced. He auditioned for the School of Music, was accepted, and spent the next four years performing with UA ensembles. After earning his bachelor’s degree in music performance, he went to Youngstown State University for his music education license, then moved to Norfolk to work for the Virginia Arts Festival as assistant director of its Rhythm Project, an in-school music program for area students. Music was central to Norfolk’s school curriculum, and Austin worked alongside teachers while also serving as operations manager for the Virginia International PANFest, a major national steel band competition. The pandemic ended the in-school programs he loved—but that was also when Tuesday Musical had a job opening that brought him back to Northeast Ohio.

Austin Ferguson

Tuesday Musical was founded in 1887 by a group of women with “proven musical ability.” The organization presents concerts in Akron by world-renowned classical and jazz musicians and leads education and community engagement programs throughout Northeast Ohio. Those in-school programs especially inspired Austin. He applied for the job, was hired, and settled in with the rest of the “small, scrappy team.” That was 2021. The next five years passed swiftly. As Austin puts it, “we all wear a ton of hats at Tuesday Musical.” Amid it all, he earned his master’s degree in nonprofit organization management at Case Western Reserve University’s Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences. When executive director Cynthia Snider announced her retirement at the end of 2025, she strongly advocated for Austin to succeed her. His experience and passion made him the clear choice. As Austin takes the helm, he’s focused on continuing Tuesday Musical’s momentum: subscriber numbers are up; new audiences are growing; and diverse, exciting performers are drawing in both longtime subscribers and newcomers. Guest artists will keep visiting schools to show students what’s possible when

Austin wants to keep finding creative ways to bring music to the community. For example, in August 2025, Tuesday Musical hosted The Concert Truck, a traveling concert hall on wheels, drawing more than 1,500 Akronites during the weeklong stay. Austin is glad to be back in a region where arts organizations work well together by sharing a mission of bringing affordable world-class performances to the public. Every March since 1955, Tuesday Musical has held a scholarship competition awarding nearly $45,000 to Ohio college students pursuing careers in music performance and education, with nearly 30 scholarships given annually. “There are magnificent performers out there who have received our scholarships,” says Austin. “All of us at Tuesday Musical are proud to see them living the dream they always wanted to pursue.” Learn more at tuesdaymusical.org/ scholarship. Austin recalls the first concert he attended as a student at The University of Akron: The Cleveland Orchestra at E.J. Thomas Hall, with a ticket provided by Tuesday Musical. In fact, Tuesday Musical gives free concert tickets—with bus funding included—to any Ohio student of any age. Parents and adult companions can purchase reduced-price tickets.

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All photos Courtesy of National First Ladies Library

Saxton McKinley House

nd that is exactly what the NFLLM does. The deep dives into the careers, passions, hobbies, and even recipes of our First Ladies make a trip to this museum a fascinating experience for the whole family. With in-person as well as online events offered, anyone can learn how our First Ladies intricately wove themselves into the fabric of our country. And, lucky for us, the museum is located in Canton.

“The story of America cannot be told without the story of its First Ladies,” says David Lee, president and CEO of the National First Ladies Library & Museum (NFLLM). In an extraordinary and historic demonstration of unity, all five of our nation’s living First Ladies—Dr. Jill Biden, Mrs. Laura Bush, Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton, Mrs. Michelle Obama, and current First Lady Mrs. Melania Trump—have joined together to serve as Honorary Chairs of the NFLLM national advisory board. These accomplished women have reached across political parties to send a powerful message about the importance of preserving the legacies of all our First Ladies. From their unique perspectives as women who have served alongside their president partners, they know their profound contributions have helped shape our nation and are a key part of our American heritage. They also realize that their work is often unrecognized—perhaps until generations after they have served our country. Thanks to the NFLLM, founded in 2000 as the only museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of America’s First Ladies, these women’s many achievements receive the spotlight they deserve. As we honor our past First Ladies, we also recognize our five living First Ladies, who are anchored in decades of public service and personal commitments to initiatives that are most meaningful to each of them. Dr. Jill Biden is an advocate for education for all ages, community

colleges, and support for military families and families confronting cancer. She is also a champion for advancing research into women’s health. Mrs. Laura Bush is a longtime advocate for literacy and education (with her “Ready to Read” initiative) as well as historical preservation and conservation. She is also a defender of Afghan women’s rights and health initiatives. Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton’s lifelong passion focuses on the needs of children, advocating for adoption and foster care. She also champions equal rights for everyone. Mrs. Michelle Obama focuses on health, education, military families, and civic engagement. During her time as First Lady, her “Let’s Move” initiative for healthy eating included planting a vegetable garden at the White House.

The Eras Exhibit

Mrs. Melania Trump, our current First Lady, promotes the well-being of children (including young people in foster care) in the digital age through her “Be Best” initiative. She also works to combat opioid abuse. The stories of these remarkable women—along with those of the other women who helped to lead from the White House—are inspirational. The National First Ladies Library & Museum is a local resource (with a national presence) that ensures our continuing ability to learn from and honor each of them.

National First Ladies Visitor Center

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Last Exit Books & Coffeehouse

rom the quaint and quirky independent bookshops that dot the Greater Akron-Canton region, to the welcoming and well-organized libraries located in most neighborhoods, you don’t have to travel far to find your next great read. Whether you want a new tome for your personal collection, borrow the latest BookTok thriller, or just browse the stacks, there are plenty of options. Local bookstores and libraries are active gathering spots for lectures, classes, and clubs. And many libraries offer Museum Passes, a Library of Things, and Seed Sharing. Browse each library’s website for a complete list of benefits. Libraries The Akron-Summit County Public Library comprises 19 locations throughout Summit County, including a Main Library and 18 branch locations. In addition, Mobile Services take the library on the road, serving children and adults in a variety of settings, and Library On the Go provides convenient and quick access to Library resources at the METRO RTA Transit Center in Akron.

The Cuyahoga Falls Library has a full catalog of books and films and is a wonderful community asset. Besides, you can use your library card to check out a Museum Pass (free access to local museums such as the Akron Art Museum, Akron Zoo, McKinley Presidential Library and Museum, and others); items from its Library of Things (ukuleles, pickle ball sets, and

INVESTING IN STRONG LIBRARIES FOR A STRONG COMMUNITY For more than 150 years, the Akron-Summit County Public Library has been a cornerstone of our community—providing resources, programs, and welcoming spaces for all residents. Thanks to strong local support, including a property tax levy that has funded nearly half of our operating budget since 1984, we’ve been able to deliver high-quality library services for generations. Our long-term capital improvement plan, funded by the 1 mill, 20-year bond issue approved by voters in May 2025, will allow us to modernize every ASCPL location and ensure our libraries remain vibrant, accessible, and functional for many years to come. These funds are restricted solely for building and infrastructure needs. Learn more at akronlibrary.org/building-our-future

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Courtesy of Stow-Munroe Falls Library Courtesy of Hudson Library

Courtesy of Stow-Munroe Falls Library

Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library

Hudson Library

metal detectors, to name a few); and Children’s Discovery Packs.

Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library

Established in 1910, the Hudson Library and Historical Society is a state-of-the-art facility located in the heart of downtown Hudson. Used for research and entertainment; business development and job searches; art exhibits and concerts; technology support and training; local history and genealogy; and story time and curriculum enrichment, the Hudson Library is a vital cultural and educational institution—with books!

People interested in local history and genealogy will find trained staff who can help with their searches at the Massillon Public Library. The library provides many databases for patrons to access inside the building or from the comfort of their home. All you need is a Massillon Public Library card, free of charge and open to local as well as nonlocal residents. Plus, they have the Dolly Parton Imagination Library for Massillon children (preschool to age five)—60 free books delivered to children’s homes.

Since 1875, the Kent Free Library has been satisfying curious minds with its diverse collection of books, films, magazines, games, and materials for all ages. But—as we have come to expect with today’s libraries—the Kent Free Library also has digital collections available 24/7, wireless printing, Wi-Fi, book clubs and community events, meeting rooms, and a Library of Things that lends items such as fitness equipment and birdwatching and stargazing kits.

In 2017, the Stark Library launched its Reimagine Project. Since then, it has built a new branch in Jackson, renovated several other branches, and built a new main library in downtown Canton. The Canton branch features upgraded technology, enhanced accessibility, collaborative workspaces, a rooftop terrace, a Maker Studio, a community green space, and (of course) books—along with accompanying book clubs, author events, and story times.

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The Stow-Munroe Falls Public Library (fine-free for late returns on most items) gives you access to nearly 12 million items from more than 45 other participating CLEVNET libraries; Museum Passes (free tickets to the Akron Art Museum, Akron Children’s Museum, Canton Museum of Art, and others); and events and programs for adults, teens, and kids; and book clubs. It’s always busy at the Wadsworth Public Library on Broad Street in Wadsworth. Whether it’s story times and book clubs or free concerts and special programs, there is something for all ages, and everyone is welcome. Check out the reading clubs, reading recommendations, or (especially for history buffs) the historical Wadsworth newspaper collection.

Independent Bookstores Black Cat Books & Oddities was founded by a husband-and-wife team who are passionate about good stories. Located in two 100-year-old houses in Medina, Black Cat sells

Here for

Stark Learned Owl Bookshop

new books, thoughtfully curated favorites, and lesser-known titles. As to the “Oddities”—they sell unique gifts, apparel, and other unique items. Their vibe is eccentric Victorian and family-friendly. BookShelf by Project: LEARN (in Medina and Wadsworth) offers a diverse selection of gently used books for all ages and interests. Every book purchased at The BookShelf directly funds Project: LEARN’s educational programs by providing essential resources (classes, tutoring, and materials) to adult learners who are improving their lives through education. When you shop at The BookShelf, you find great reads at affordable prices while also investing in the growth and development of our community. Founded in 2020 to amplify marginalized voices, Elizabeth’s Bookshop & Writing Centre is Akron’s only Black-, woman-, and queer-owned bookstore. With shelves and events at Akron’s Northside Marketplace—and workshops and meetups at The Well CDC in Akron’s Middlebury neighborhood—this is more than a bookstore. It’s a place that curates books; challenges perspectives; inspires change; and serves as a space for conversation, learning, and connection through the power of storytelling. Last Exit Books & Coffeehouse is an independent bookstore and coffeehouse in downtown Kent. Since 2004, they have been buying, trading, and selling new and used books, DVDs,

Blu-rays, CDs, and records. Over the years, it has grown to include an inviting coffee shop with cafe seating. The Learned Owl Book Shop is a locally run, community bookstore in historic downtown Hudson. With three floors of books for all ages and interests, The Learned Owl has everything from classic picture books to travel guides to the latest New York Times bestsellers and more. If they don’t have the book you want, they will order it (they also offer an out-ofprint search service for hard-to-find books). It’s an old-fashioned atmosphere with exceptional customer service. Mythical Bookworm in Munroe Falls is a family-owned used bookstore that prioritizes affordability and community literacy. In addition to its storefront—with a well-curated selection of books, including largeprint editions—it also offers online ordering with free shipping on orders over $40.

Stark Library is here for you... INVITING, INFORMING and TRANSFORMING our community! Whether you’re looking for job help, supporting a child’s education, or finding your next favorite read, we have something for YOU. Scan the QR code & Start with us today!

Shelf Life is an independent used bookstore in downtown Cuyahoga Falls. The store curates books based on condition and maintains a strong focus on affordability and accessibility to reading and book ownership through low-cost/no-cost options. Shelf Life encourages analog reconnection, anti-censorship, childhood literacy, and community outreach. Open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Snowball Books & More in Barberton claims to be the largest

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used and out-of-print bookstore in Northeast Ohio, with more than 100,000 books. The Village Bookstore on Main Street in Garrettsville opened in 2005. This cozy little store is filled to the brim with new and used books, and the owner (it’s a female-owned, local business) has a particular focus on finding and selling old and out-ofprint books. If you’re a bibliophile, this is the place for you. More independent bookstores to love: Bilbury & Company in historic downtown Mantua Courtesy of Black Cat Books

Books a Go Go in downtown Ravenna The Book Treehouse at The Common Ground in Medina Dorrie’s Booktique in Canton Little Sparrow Book Shop in North Canton

Black Cat Books & Oddities

Thrifty Owl Book Shop in Northfield Trust Books at Jenks on Front Street in Cuyahoga Falls Woven Words Book Shop in Bath

Speaker Series The Greater Akron-Canton Region welcomes speakers and authors who share their knowledge and expertise across a variety of speaker series. There are many opportunities for you and your family to quench your intellectual thirst. The Akron Roundtable was established in 1976 as a community forum to spark bold new ideas and promote

dialogue across the region. Corporate executives, writers, government officials, artists, and civic leaders from around the country have come to share their perspectives on issues of global, national, and regional importance. Attend Roundtable events in person or listen via the Roundtable Podcast or the rebroadcast on Ideastream Public Media and PBS. Since 2016, the Stark Library— with sponsorship from Kent State University at Stark—has invited authors of every genre and background to speak in the Dr. Audrey Lavin Speaking of Books Author

SUBSCRIBE!

Join us for another exciting year!

Visit our website for special 2027 subscription oﬀers!

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Series. Well-known and up-andcoming authors share their powerful stories before engaging in lively, sometimes challenging questionand-answer sessions with the audience. All events are free and open to the public (upgraded tickets are available for purchase); registration is required. The Wick Poetry Center at Kent State University—established in 1984 by brothers Robert and Walter Wick in memory of their sons—hosts emerging as well as established poets at poetry readings on the Kent Campus. Wick Poetry also offers opportunities for publication, scholarships, workshops, and internships. All readings are free and open to the public.

The annual William Carlos Williams Poetry Competition at the Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) draws hundreds of entries each year from medical students across the country. Williams (1883-1963) was a celebrated American poet and family physician—a fitting inspiration for NEOMED, where the humanities have been woven into the medical curriculum since the university’s founding in 1973.

DOWNTOWN AKRON HAS IT ALL! ENTERTAINMENT • EVENTS • SHOPPING • DINING • ART • RECREATION

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The home of Akron & Summit County’s founding family.

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Medina

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Vegan options always available

SummitHistory.org

Photo by Bruce S. Ford

MUSIC, DRINKS, FOOD, FUN!

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tours & events Cellar Door Boutique gift shop Carriage House Call for tour days: 330.972.6909 www.uakron.edu/howerhousemuseum Bring this ad for 20% off entire purchase at Cellar Door Boutique gift shop. (excludes markdowns & HHM merch) Limit 1 coupon per person; expires Dec. 19, 2027.

Let us be your guide to downtown Akron! Scan the QR code or visit downtownakron.com

tan Hywet Hall & Gardens is renowned for its 65-room Tudor Revival Manor House, sumptuous gardens, and public events that conclude each year with Deck the Hall. That dazzling celebration—featuring 1.4 million outdoor lights, a massive poinsettia tree in the Corbin Conservatory, hot cocoa and gingerbread in Molly’s Shop & Cafe, and 22 Manor House rooms decorated for the holidays—is one of Akron’s most popular seasonal events. Deck the Hall honors the Seiberling family’s large holiday gatherings, a tradition dating to their first year at the Manor (1915), when they hosted more than 40 people for dinner. The estate opened to the public in 1957 and began offering holiday tours, which eventually evolved into Deck the Hall. Transforming Stan Hywet into Deck the Hall takes months of planning (and one frenetic day), as Robin Vande Zande, her son David, and her daughter Lauren Warnock 38 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

discovered when they vied for an opportunity to decorate a Manor House room for the 2025 holiday season. Robin, David, and Lauren had attended Deck the Hall for years but had never inquired about the room decorating selection process. How were people or companies chosen? What were the selection criteria? Could they be considered? Their questions led them to Stan Hywet curator Bailey Yoder, who

invited them to send a proposal focusing on the 2025 theme: Enchanted Forest. By February, family brainstorming sessions had evolved into a vision of a Christmas tree forest with parasols floating overhead and vines and butterflies cascading from their undersides into flowers that morphed into tree ornaments. The centerpiece would be a river lit with twinkle lights that revealed woodland creatures along the riverbank.

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Lauren Warnock, and David and Robin Vande Zande

They presented their ideas during a Zoom call with Bailey, who was kneedeep in proposals from past and potential decorators. Two months and one on-site visit to the Manor House later, Robin, David, and Lauren learned that their proposal had been accepted. That’s when the real work began. Their room “assignment” was the second-floor Master Bedroom. With room dimensions in hand, they calcu lated what they needed. Lauren, a Chicago-based interior designer with an eye for filling space, suggested six trees with lights, ornaments, feathers, garland, and flowers. David, a contractor, planned to build the river in his workshop using Styrofoam, plexiglass sheets, spray paint, and LED light strips. Given the size of the room, he would have to build it in sections that could be taken apart and put back together.

Over the summer, they returned to Stan Hywet to pore over two binders— one of Christmas trees stored in an outbuilding, the other of holiday decorations stored in the Manor House’s “Trunk Room.” They ordered what they needed and planned to buy a few special items. Meanwhile, Milwaukee-based friend Elizabeth Watts foraged, soaked, dried, and glittered 150 pine cones before mailing them to David that fall. On installation day—November 18— they bounced between chaos and creativity. David stayed at his workshop finishing the river while Robin, Lauren, and their friend Mary Baldwin began decorating at Stan Hywet, the room burgeoning with trees and bins of decorations, as they moved gingerly around the room’s historic artifacts and furniture. While placing trees into position, they realized the parasols could not be hung from the ceiling as originally envisioned. They quickly pivoted and jury-rigged them

onto the treetops. At the same time, David finished the river, disassembled it, transported it to Stan Hywet, and reassembled it. Eight ambitious hours later, Paddling Down the Cuyahoga River in the Enchanted Forest was ready for the more than 47,000 visitors who would pass through Stan Hywet’s Manor House doors to enjoy Deck the Hall. Then—just like that—the holiday festivities were over. In January, Robin and David returned to Stan Hywet and spent just two hours dismantling their room. They— and Lauren—loved the experience of working and being together and are ready to do it all again. Deck the Hall runs from the weekend after Thanksgiving through December 30, closing Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.

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hether you are a fan of the arts or just want something to do with family or friends, look no further. We have plenty of museums and galleries, along with artists and creators who enrich our lives and communities with art that reaches and teaches. To learn more about what’s happening in the arts in the Greater Akron-Canton region, check out ArtsNow (“Connecting Arts, Culture and Community”), the Downtown Akron Partnership, or Arts in Stark (“transforming Stark County through the power of the arts”).

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Welcoming All: Museums and Galleries W

The Akron Art Museum features a wonderful blend of modern and contemporary art. With ever-changing galleries; resources for families, educators, and schools; an Akron Art Library/ Akron-Summit County Public Library collaboration that allows library-card-carrying Summit County residents to check-out original artwork for four weeks at a time; new acquisition purchases; and the inspiring Bud and Susie Rogers Garden that features terraces and event space, it’s obvious the museum fully embraces its dual role as preserver of the past and herald of the future.

Founded in 2014 to serve the Greater Akron area, the Akron Children’s Museum is a playful, interactive environment where kids and families can learn and explore together. Reflecting the people who live in our region, the museum offers safe, inspiring, and accessible family activities, including S.T.E.A.M. learning, field trips, outreach programs, and team building. Thanks to the Akron History Center, located in Akron’s historic downtown, Akron’s history is illuminated by relics and artifacts from our past. It celebrates the city’s industrial past; acknowledges its leadership in public education, the abolition of slavery, and the fight to establish organized labor; and explores previously untold stories of Indigenous people, African-born freedom-seekers, and immigrants. It’s operated by the Akron-Summit County Public Library in

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watch some of our region’s finest glass artists at work. Plus, you don’t need experience to take a workshop, though you do need to be 15 years or older. It’s an exciting, beautiful art form—and is definitely Akron’s hottest destination.

Discover World at the McKinley Museum

partnership with the Summit County Historical Society, The University of Akron, the Downtown Akron Partnership, and the Akron-Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Akron Fossils & Science Center is a place where visitors of all ages can explore the science of our world—past, present, and future—through hands-on science

programming that makes learning fun. Just like real scientists, you can become a researcher and experimenter, hold real fossils and make your own replicas, interact with live animals, and ask critical questions. It’s a learning adventure. Housed in a former church near the University of Akron’s campus, Akron Glass Works is the place to go to

Founded in 2016, Akron Soul Train is an artist residency program that empowers artists by providing residencies across all creative disciplines. Its vision is to create supportive, inclusive spaces for artists, be a catalyst for the arts, offer a destination for Greater Akron residents to engage with artists, and celebrate and amplify artistic expression. Imagine seeing an 18th-century sailing ship—complete with deck nails and rigging—just as it must have appeared more than 200 years ago. Now imagine this ship is only 4 feet long. That is the magic of the Blue Water Majesty Museum. In addition to featuring models that are exact duplicates of their full-grown

PLAN YOUR VISIT! First Ladies National Historic Site Canton, Ohio | FirstLadies.org 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 41

counterparts, made from copies of original blueprints, the museum includes replicas of a Great Lakes schooner as well as the Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank in Lake Superior in 1975. This maritime marvel is located on Columbus Road in Canton. The Canton Arts District calls itself the “beating heart of downtown Canton”—and for good reason. With galleries, studios, specialty shops, restaurants, and more than 40 pieces of public art, Canton’s bustling, buzzing, bodacious arts community celebrates art and culture. Its monthly First Friday nights—including live performances at the Hall of Fame Centennial Plaza—are pedestrian-friendly gatherings that take place year-round, rain or shine. For locals and visitors alike, Canton is the perfect blend of historic charm and modern artistic expression.

Courtesy of Canton Museum of Art

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Akron Art Museum

More Galleries. More To Experience.

One South High Akron, OH 44308 330.376.9186 akronartmuseum.org

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The Canton Classic Car Museum exhibits more than 40 rare and unusual classic and special-interest automobiles, including a 1937 Studebaker President Bullet-Proof Police Car. These gorgeous vehicles are complemented by historic memorabilia: vintage toys, steam engines, movie posters, historic photography, and more. As the Museum notes: “We’re so much more than cars!” The Canton Museum of Art is one of Ohio’s premier museums. Founded in 1935, its collection focuses on American watercolors and works on paper from the 19th century onward, as well as contemporary ceramics from the 1950s forward. Through its School of Art, thousands of students— adults, teens, children, and even toddlers—take studio art classes and workshops ranging from ceramics to watercolor to oil painting to drawing, among many others. The Canton Museum of Art is an inspiring, welcoming, and much-loved cultural destination for everyone. Admission is free every Thursday. Castle Noel in Medina—“America’s Largest Year-Round Indoor Christmas Entertainment Attraction”—has charmed visitors since it opened in 2013. It features Hollywood Christmas movie props and costumes from

favorite classics such as “The Grinch” and “Elf.” There are Christmas window displays from Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale’s, Lord & Taylor, and Macy’s. Sprinkled into the magic are the Blizzard Vortex, Santa’s Chimney Squeeze, a 25-foot-tall animated Christmas tree, the Starlight Dining Experience, the Gingerbread Theater, and more. With new additions constantly being introduced, every visit offers a fresh and unforgettable experience. The Cuyahoga Valley Art Center in historic downtown Cuyahoga Falls offers visual art classes and workshops in a wide range of media for beginning to advanced students. Exhibitions are free and open to the public. The Emily Davis Gallery is nationally recognized for presenting thoughtprovoking contemporary exhibitions and events that showcase the most current expressions and critical ideas in the visual arts today. The gallery is located at The University of Akron’s Mary Schiller Myers School of Art. Hale Farm & Village—the original homestead of Connecticut native Jonathan Hale, who migrated to the Western Reserve in 1810—is a living history museum operated by the Western Reserve Historical Society and located within the boundaries of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Costumed interpreters offer glimpses into daily farm life with explorations into historic structures, farm animals, gardens, and early American craft and trade demonstrations. Yearround signature events include their Maple Sugar Festival and Pancake Breakfast, Music in the Valley Folk & Wine Festival, Civil War Weekend, Made In Ohio Art & Craft Festival, Harvest Festival, and Holiday Lantern Tours. For more than 100 years, “Hoover” has been a trusted brand for vacuum cleaners, with the Hoover Historical Center being the go-to place to learn more about this iconic Canton company. Located on original Hoover family farmland, the Center offers free, guided tours that feature displays highlighting the evolution of floor care, innovations in vacuum

cleaners, and the cultural impact of The Hoover Company (including significant contributions made during World War II). Complete your visit with a stroll through award-winning gardens tended to by the members of the Center’s Herb Society. The Hower House was built in 1871 by John Henry Hower, a leading Akron industrialist who was known as the “Father of Akron Industry.” This three-story, 28-room mansion— capped with a distinctive mansard roof and soaring tower—is one of our country’s finest, best-preserved examples of the Italianate style. Deeded to The University of Akron in 1970 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, the Hower House is open for tours, concerts, book club gatherings, special exhibits, member meetups, and shopping at The Cellar Door Boutique. The Kent State Museum—located on the grounds of Kent State University and affiliated with Kent’s top-ranked

School of Fashion Design and Merchandising—features a stunning collection of historic, contemporary, and world fashions, along with American glass, furniture, paintings, decorative arts, and a library of books and historic periodicals. With its permanent collection and rotating exhibitions, the Museum is dedicated to advancing understanding of world cultures through collection, preservation, interpretation, and exhibits of fashion, textiles, and related arts.

University students protesting the Vietnam War, killing four and wounding nine. Now listed in the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the May 4 Visitors Center is a permanent exhibit that tells the story of the Kent State shootings. It also includes a self-guided outdoor trail that is open whenever the campus grounds are accessible, with seven exhibit panels guiding visitors through the events of that tragic day.

The Massillon Museum is a local art and history museum with major collections of photography, costumes and textiles, china, glass and pottery, domestic appliances, and circus memorabilia. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the museum’s permanent collection includes more than 100,000 items, most of them gifts from the community.

The William McKinley Presidential Library & Museum is a presidential library dedicated to our 25th president and the final resting place of President McKinley and First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley, who lie side by side in two dark-green granite sarcophagi. It incorporates into a single adventure the history museum, an interactive science center (Discover World), a planetarium (Hoover-Price Planetarium), and a research library. The museum also hosts Summer Science Camps and a life-sized

On May 4, 1970, Ohio National Guardsmen fired on Kent State

Courtesy of Hale Farm & Village

McKINLEY PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM

www.McKinleyMuseum.org

Courtesy of MAPS Air Museum

Hale Farm & Village

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The Military Aircraft Preservation Society (MAPS) Museum is an internationally recognized aviation museum and center of aviation history. Located on the west side of the Akron-Canton Airport, MAPS has more than 50 planes—most of them on loan from the U.S. Air Force and Navy for on-site restoration. As a working museum, it repairs and restores historical aircraft and also offers educational displays of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and historical archives in its own library. The National First Ladies Library & Museum celebrates the accomplishments of our nation’s First Ladies. Located in the former Canton home of President William McKinley and First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley, the museum is part of the National Park Service and serves as the foremost repository of scholarly research on America’s First Ladies. Get to know what made them tick as you learn about their careers, passions, hobbies, and even recipes. With a variety of events held throughout the year— including Third Thursday programs— each visit offers a fascinating learning experience for the whole family. The National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum honors inventors who have shaped the world around us, inspires tomorrow’s innovators, and challenges today’s creative thinkers to design the future. Located in North Canton, this museum features dynamic exhibits and interactive experiences that ignite the innovative spirit in visitors of all ages. Programs for children are phenomenal, including Camp Invention, where kids take on creative challenges with programs such as Make Waves (campers learn to commercialize their own innovative products), Infringers (kids team up with real-life superheroes), and Space 44 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

Courtesy of National First Ladies Library

Street of Shops, complete with a horse-drawn fire engine. In addition, it houses the Stark County Black History Museum, which is dedicated to preserving the rich legacy and heritage of Black people who settled in Stark County beginning in the early 1800s. Take an afternoon to treat yourself to this incredible, multifaceted, educational experience. Saxton McKinley House

Perkins Stone Mansion

Morphers (kids build DIY rockets). It’s fun. It’s interesting. It’s inspiring. Completed in 1837, the Perkins Stone Mansion was built by Colonel Simon Perkins, the son of Akron’s founder, General Simon Perkins. As one of Ohio’s finest examples of Greek Revival architecture, this historical house museum brings to life the Perkins family’s lifestyle across three generations. The Perkins Museum also interprets the history of Akron and Summit County from Akron’s founding through the turn of the century. The Pro Football Hall of Fame and Museum (HoF), established in 1963, is recognized worldwide as America’s premier sports Hall of Fame and is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, making it the first major sports museum to receive this distinction. Over the years, the HoF has welcomed more than 10 million fans. Each year, visitors from all 50 states and more than 70 foreign countries travel to Canton to learn about the talents and triumphs of

pro football’s greatest legends. You may be a fan. You may be a super fan. You may be an interested bystander. No matter what team you follow (or not), the HoF is an iconic American destination. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is a 65-room mansion that was the home of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. One of five historic buildings on the property, Stan Hywet sits on 70 acres of green space and has 10 fully restored historic gardens, including the English Garden, created by pioneering female architect Ellen Biddle Shipman. The Gate Lodge on the property is the site of the first meeting between Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson, who founded Alcoholics Anonymous. Each year, Stan Hywet hosts a variety of events beyond public tours of the house and grounds, including Ohio Mart, an outdoor market with an Elizabethan flair; Deck the Hall, one of Ohio’s largest holiday light displays; an annual Easter Egg Hunt; bird walks with the

Andrea Hallgren

quarterly celebration of the arts and local artists. By fostering a strong, diverse, and vibrant arts and culture community in Greater Akron, Summit Artspace bustles with inspiration.

Courtesy of Visit Canton

Troll down memory lane at the Troll Hole Museum. Located in Alliance, the Troll Hole Museum holds the Guinness World record for the world’s largest troll doll collection. With more than 10,000 memorabilia items placed in artistic settings featuring murals and outdoor sculptures—as well as the Grumpy Troll Cafe, which serves locally roasted gourmet coffee, tea, and smoothies—a visit to the Troll Hole is fun for all ages.

Hoover-Price Planetarium

Kent State Museum

Greater Akron Audubon Society; and more. Stan Hywet is Akron’s first and largest National Historic Landmark, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, and is the sixth largest historic home open to the public.

artists at every stage of the creative process. Located in Akron’s downtown historic district, this hub for artists and arts supporters offers affordable studio space to artists and creative organizations. Its five galleries feature rotating exhibitions four times a year, and it also coordinates public programs such as ArtWalk, a

Summit Artspace is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to supporting

The Downtown Akron Skyline includes old-fashioned grain silos built in the 19th century by German immigrant Ferdinand Schumacher, who had a crazy idea to market oats for breakfast (Quaker Oats). The silos and factory are now business offices and a University of Akron residence hall.

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Terri Barbush

Balloon Classic

here is so much to love about the Akron-Canton region. We have fantastic museums and galleries; lots of live music, theater, and dance; a wealth of libraries and independent bookstores; and wonderful restaurants and farm markets. But we also enjoy four seasons of sports, fitness, and outdoor fun. Whether you are a participant or a spectator, you don’t need to look far beyond your own front door to get outside and connect with nature.

For nearly 50 years, hot-air balloons in Ravenna’s Balloon A-Fair have filled the September sky with

With Boston Mills/Brandywine located within the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park, you don’t have to travel far to experience the exhilaration of skiing and snowboarding. Learn to ski, hone your skills, or have a romp with Polar Blast Snow Tubing. Two resorts—many unforgettable experiences. In Canal Fulton, visit the Canal Fulton Canalway Center and take a ride on the St. Helena III replica

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Valentine’s Day in the Cuyahoga Valley has special meaning when it comes to the Bath Road Heronry. That’s when great blue herons typically return to their nesting colony. Standing four feet tall with sevenfoot wingspans, these magnificent birds can be seen from the vantage of a paved pullout along Bath Road. Another prominent nesting site located within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park area is the Great Blue Heron Rookery on Waterloo Road (near the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail). Visitors can watch herons in treetops that seem impossibly fragile to support such giant nests.

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With animal residents from around the world (Sumatran tigers, snow leopards, red pandas, penguins, and Komodo dragons), unique experiences (Behind-the-Scenes, Rise and Shine Safari, and Get Closer tours), education days (Zoorific and Veterinary career days as well as Family Adventures), and unforgettable special events (Boo At The Zoo, Wild Lights, and Summer Safari) the Akron Zoo is a treasure trove of fun. It’s comfortably navigable in a day and was the first Ohio zoo to receive the Age-Friendly Seal of Approval from the Better Business Bureau.

Akron RubberDucks mascot Webster and friend

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The Akron RubberDucks are the AA affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians, and Canal Park in downtown Akron is our team’s home. It’s a thrill to watch baseball’s rising stars on a warm summer night. Add fireworks, special events, and mascots in a beautiful ballpark, and you have a little slice of Akron heaven.

color. Kicking off the festivities is the Children’s Parade, followed by two additional days of live music, food and craft vendors, helicopter rides, fireworks, the Hot Air Balloon Night Glow, and a final ascension of 14 hotair balloons. Since the festival is held at the Portage County Fairgrounds, there is room for everyone.

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Run the Blue Line in the First Energy Akron Marathon, Half Marathon, and Team Relay, presented by Summa Health. Launched in 2003 with 3,500 runners, the Akron Marathon has expanded into a series of races culminating in the marquee marathon in September. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Whether you are chasing your personal best, walking to stay active, or sharing the experience with family and friends, Akron’s race day is a rubber-burning blast.

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canal boat. The St. Helena III—originally pulled by two Percheron draft horses—offers a one-hour boat ride. As you travel on an original section of the Ohio & Erie Canal, the onboard historian will tell you all about the history of the canal, boat, and local area. Arrive 30 minutes before departure to watch the DVD presentation of “Our Canal Heritage.” Canton Parks and Recreation has more than 800 acres of parkland and recreation facilities that are a source of community pride and offer a wide range of recreational activities. From softball, volleyball, pickleball, and bocce ball to disc golf and shuffleboard to children’s activities (Dirt Dawg T-ball, baseball, and pitching clinics), there’s an activity to fit every interest. When you visit the more than three dozen parks, be sure to take a little time to see Monument Park (next to the William McKinley National Memorial).

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP)—Ohio’s only national park— spans 33,000 acres and more than 125 miles of trails along the Cuyahoga (kai-uh-HOAG-uh) River. Discover woodlands, wetlands, old fields, and rolling hills. Pause to appreciate the native plants and wildlife. Choose your hiking adventure from nearly level to more challenging trails. Pack a picnic lunch and bring the whole family. No matter where you are in Greater Akron, the natural magic of the CVNP is just a 20-minute drive away. For over 100 years, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad—the only heritage railroad operating within the boundaries of a national park in the U.S.—has provided historic train rides through breathtaking Cuyahoga Valley landscapes. Take the Classic 24-mile round-trip scenic ride or special rides such as the Roaring 20s, Western Locomotive, Donut Sundays, Murder Mystery, Ales on Rails, and others. With stations in Akron, Peninsula, and Rockside (in Independence), the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is an iconic Northeast Ohio day trip.

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The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Explorer Program (formerly Bike Aboard) offers one-way train rides

for cyclists, hikers, runners, walkers, or kayakers. Just flag down the train at any of the eight CVSR boarding stations, climb aboard (cyclists load bikes on the train), enjoy the oneway ride, disembark, bike, hike, run, walk, or paddle along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and catch a train back to your starting place. There is no need to book in advance; just hop aboard and purchase your one-way fare directly from the train crew. Akron and Canton’s Disc Golf (aka Frisbee Golf) scene is strong and growing. Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links is an Akron favorite, and so are Chestnut Ridge (a healthy mix of open and wooded holes), Sand Run Metro Park (scenic and challenging), and Silver Creek Metro Park (in the Summit Metro Parks). In Canton, the Disc Golf Courses at Arboretum Park and Spiker Park, both managed by Canton Parks & Recreation, are great choices. If you’ve never tried disc golf, consider incorporating this healthy, inexpensive activity into your workout or recreational routine. The Downtown Akron Sakura Festival celebrates springtime, Japanese culture, and the beauty of more than 470 cherry blossom trees that line the Towpath Trail between Downtown Akron and Summit Lake. The festival features cultural performances and activities, including a chado tea ceremony, Japanese tea-making and origami workshops, a bonsai display, and the beloved Wishing Tree, where visitors can write their hopes and dreams on satin ribbons and affix them to blossom-laden tree branches. The Huntington Towpath Century Ride supports the Ohio & Erie Canalway’s mission to develop, enhance, and activate the Canalway (a designated National Heritage Area), Towpath Trail, and connector trails. This 101-mile bike ride traverses the Towpath Trail from Settler’s Point in Cleveland to Massillon. Bike it in one day—or two—and join hundreds of others who are helping to preserve this natural, historical, and recreational resource. If winter is your jam, check out our local ice skating rinks. Lock 3 Ice

Skating—located next to the Akron Civic Theatre—is home to two ice rinks, historic holiday displays, and Akron’s very own Archie the Talking Snowman. Or go to the Massillon Ice Skating Rink at Duncan Plaza, where ice skates are provided by the Massillon Parks and Recreation Department at no cost on weekends. Or try the outdoor rink at the Downtown Cuyahoga Falls Ice Skating Rink (free admission; bring your own skates or rent them for $5). Or make a day of it and go to the Hall of Fame City Ice Rink in Canton. Or head over to the Jackson Township Ice Skating Rink at North Park near the David Ruwadi Pavilion (rent skates or bring your own and use the rink for free). When the weather turns cold, you can warm up on the ice! Challenge body and mind with Indoor Rock Climbing (aka Bouldering) where experienced climbers master technical moves while novice climbers learn how to belay, tie knots, and navigate boulder

Kayaking on the Cuyahoga River

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The Medina County Park District was formed in 1965 with boundaries that include all of Medina County (except Hinckley Township). Over the decades, the park has acquired land for the preservation of open spaces, unique natural resources, and wildlife—and now has 14 parks, eight nature preserves, two nature centers, and more. It hosts public and community programs for young people, scouts, and educators, including the Natural Discovery Nature Series, the Get Out and Fish Challenge, the Strolling Through Spring program, and other events. You name it, and the Medina County Park District probably does it.

Tim Hite

routes (route setters keep walls fresh)—all while building strength and agility, improving balance and coordination, and gaining more confidence. It’s an ultimate indoor adventure. Some options: Rock Mill Climbing and Urban Air Adventure Park in Akron, and Kendall Cliffs Climbing Gym in Peninsula.

Summit Lake

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Explorer Program

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Rob Vaughn

Courtesy of Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Metro Parks Ledges

The Ledges at sunset

Orienteering is a competitive international sport that combines racing with navigation using a map and compass—and it’s what the Northeastern Ohio Orienteering Club (NEOOC) is all about. The original, classic orienteering format is a timed race in which individual participants use a specially created, highly detailed map to complete a course by selecting routes, navigating through diverse (and often unfamiliar) terrain, and visiting “control points” in sequence. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is the path where, from 1827 to 1913, mules pulled canal boats laden with passengers and goods up and down the historic Ohio & Erie Canalway (a National Heritage Area). Today’s Towpath Trail follows the historic towpath as closely as possible and is a favorite place to hike, bike, and learn more about the cultural, historic, natural, and recreational resources being preserved along the trail. One trailhead (of many) to visit is Summit

Lake—a natural glacial lake whose storied history includes the original route used by Indigenous populations to portage between the Cuyahoga and Tuscarawas Rivers. Pickleball is one of America’s fastestgrowing sports. If you are (or want to be) a Picklehead, you can find courts all around Akron and Canton. Discover what the Pickleball buzz is all about at the indoor Hot Shots Pickleball Club in Canton, the outdoor Towpath Tennis Center in Akron, and many other local locations.

Professional football was born in a car dealership in Canton in 1920. More than 100 years later, the city remains the epicenter of the game with the Pro Football Hall of Fame (HoF) being an iconic, must-visit for football fans, families, and the curious. It’s big. It’s fun. It’s football. With the HoF Museum, the Tom Benson HoF Stadium, the HoF Enshrinement Festival, the Balloon Classic, eight youth playing fields, and a retail promenade, the HoF is a sports lover’s destination. The Village hosts many concerts, games, and events each year, with the Enshrinement

Portage Lakes State Park lies at one of the highest points in Ohio and is home to eight lakes. With swimming, boating (eight launch ramps), sailing, jet-skiing, fishing (for novice as well as experienced anglers), five miles of hiking trails, and wetlands that attract waterfowl and shorebirds, Portage Lakes State Park has a wealth of outdoor recreation to experience.

We wade on azure pebbles, We wear our trousers rolled: Even turtles trust you here. —“Brandywine Falls in June” from “Gospels From the Lower Shelf” by Thomas Dukes, Akron poet

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Bruce Ford Courtesy of Falls & Co.

Courtesy of Akron/Summit CVB

Soap Box Derby

Canton Repository Grand Parade

ceremony serving as the capstone— when inductees receive the coveted Gold Jacket. And there’s more. Throughout downtown Canton, The Eleven—a collaboration between ArtsinStark and the HoF—is 11 pieces of art representing 11 key moments in pro football. Even if football is not your “jam,” this is a place we all can (and do) rally around. The Pro Football Hall of Fame Village is a 100-acre sports and entertainment destination centered around Canton’s Pro Football Hall of Fame. Enjoy the Play-Action Plaza, featuring the “Red Zone” giant Ferris wheel; the pedestrian-friendly Fan Engagement Zone promenade; shopping and dining, featuring restaurants like Don Shula’s American Kitchen, The Brew Kettle, and Gridiron Gastropub; fun shops like Build-A-Bear Workshop and Heggy’s Nuts; Topgolf Swing Suites; and the ForeverLawn Sports Complex with eight turf fields for tournaments and events. The Village also features the Center for Performance, a massive dome used for events, and the Constellation Center for Excellence.

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Good Park ninth hole

For everyone with a love/hate relationship with golf, public golf courses in Akron and Canton are plentiful, and you don’t have to drive far to get to a course. The quality of the courses— well-maintained, affordably priced (as compared to other cities), and diverse in design and layout—makes this region a golfer’s playground. Just a few of the courses you will find: Brookledge Golf Club—Cuyahoga Falls Chenoweth Golf Course—Akron Ellsworth Meadows—Hudson Fox Den Golf Course—Stow Good Park—Akron Mud Run Golf Course—Akron Pine Valley Golf Club—Wadsworth Raintree Golf & Event Center—Uniontown Raymond C. Firestone Golf Course—Akron

acres, three park entrances, a variety of trails near the shoreline, interactive displays about the history of the Ohio & Erie Canal, and options for self-guided activities as well as scheduled programs and events, it’s an explorer’s heaven. Skateboarding made its Olympic debut during the 2020 Summer Games in Tokyo, but the sport (as it exists today) likely started in the late 1940s or early 1950s. It took 20 more years before skateparks were designed and constructed specifically for use by skateboarders, freestyle BMXers, aggressive skaters, and scooter riders. Several of these skateparks are in the Akron-Canton area. Akron Skatepark Dogwood Skatepark—North Canton Harmont Skatepark—Canton

The Quarry Golf Club—Canton

Hudson Skate Park

Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links—Akron

Medina Ohio Skatepark

As part of the Stark Parks system, Sippo Lake Park is a great place to hike, bike, fish, paddle, and enjoy up-close views of wildlife. With 300

Ravenna Skatepark Skatepark Twinsburg Stonewater Skatepark—Kent Stow Rotary Skatepark Streetsboro Skatepark

Founded in Akron in 1934, the Soap Box Derby attracts throngs to Derby Downs for the “Thrill of the Hill.” The first step for young people—ages 7 to 20—who want to participate in the Derby is finding a “race city” (close to 100 cities are home to officially sanctioned Soap Box Derby Local Race Organizations). Those race outcomes determine local champions who qualify for the annual World Championships, held in Akron in July and including a week of familyfriendly activities.

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We’re Your Back Yard Explore 6 parks, over 50 miles of trails and dozens of free programs each month.

Stark Parks manages 15 parks, four lakes, and more than 120 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails on nearly 6,800 acres of land in Stark County. From its modest beginnings to recent times of rapid growth, its goal is to offer places and opportunities for families, visitors, and everyone else in the community to “get your park on!” Founded in 1921, Summit Metro Parks is Ohio’s second-oldest park district. With 16,000 acres throughout 16 parks, nature and visitor centers, and more than 150 miles of trails (including the Summit County Hike & Bike Trail), Summit Metro Parks counts more than 5 million visits each year. But hiking is not its only focus. Summit Metro Parks also conserves and studies green space to help plants, wildlife, and people thrive. A few fanfavorite places to visit and hike are: Don Drumm Sculpture “Sun Tracker”—the Valley View section of Cascade Valley Park F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm— 3 hiking trails, gardens, 2 ponds, and a suspension bridge

Join us in creating

a Greener Future! Visit bit.ly/SMPGreenerFuture to learn how you can become involved.

Gorge Metro Park—scenic views along the Cuyahoga River Munroe Falls Metro Park—a fun trail in a beautiful setting Signal Tree—a 350-year-old burr oak used by Native Americans as a waymark linking the Tuscarawas and Cuyahoga rivers Every year for more than 60 years, hikers—old and young, experienced and novice—have explored trails while enjoying fall colors during the Summit Metro Parks Fall Hiking Spree. Hikers have from September 1 to November 30 to complete eight designated

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The annual Twins Days Festival in Twinsburg is the largest gathering of twins (and other multiples) in the world, drawing about 25,000 visitors for two fun-filled days. With contests, the “Double Take” parade, the Royal Court, the Twins Talent Show, and other activities, you’ll quickly realize you don’t have to be a twin to enjoy Twins Days.

B.A.R.C. Akron Dog Park In 1969, the Cuyahoga (kai-uhHOAG-uh) River was so polluted it caught fire (not our best moment) and was the catalyst for the environmental revolution in our country. Today, the 84.9-mile river is an American Heritage River—sparkling, healthy, and alive with blue herons, insects, fish, as well as kayakers. We embrace our river and its history in many ways. So. . .try a Burning River Pale Ale from the Great Lakes Brewing Company. Paddle down the river with Burning River Adventures. Rent a bike from Dirty River Bicycle Works at Northside. Grab some friends and go tubing with Float the River. Or just stroll or bike down a paved pathway along the banks of the Cuyahoga. It’s our river, and we’re proud of it. We love our furry family members and are eager to offer them “play dates” with other canine companions. Thus. . .dog parks. While Fido exercises and plays (off leash), twolegged owners can sit back, relax,

Courtesy of The University of Akron

Wingfoot Lake State Park in Mogadore features a relaxing backdrop of tall trees, expanses of grass, a beautiful lake, and picnic shelters (some with large fireplaces). It has everything you need for a day of hiking on paved trails, playing disc golf, paddleboating, fishing, or picnicking. Originally owned by the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, the park joined the state system in 2009.

and enjoy park-like settings. Bow Wow Beach Dog Park—Stow Canal Fulton Dog Park Keyser Dog Park—Cuyahoga Falls Plain Township Veterans Park—Canton Schneider Community Park—Canton Professional sports. Football. Basketball. Baseball. Hockey. We’re fans (or the family members of fans). And we know the Greater AkronCanton region is lucky to have all four—just a stone’s throw down the road—in Cleveland. Since one of the great things about living here is access, it’s easy to hop onto the highway to attend a home game downtown. When it comes to the Browns, the Cavs, the Guardians, and the Monsters, we are “In It to Win It”—together! Zippy, the marsupial mascot of The University of Akron, is more than just a kangaroo. She represents pride, energy, tradition, and the spirit of The University of Akron. And she can be requested to make an appearance at your event or gathering. Just check out her homepage (Yes! Zippy has her own page on UA’s website!) for more information.

Courtesy of The University of Akron

trails. First-year hikers earn a hiking staff and a shield to affix to it (returning hikers earn the shield). The Metro Parks’ Spree for All—May 1 until June 30—is another great way to enjoy the parks. Both Sprees are for people of all abilities and are free to enjoy.

David Dermer

InfoCision Stadium, home of The University of Akron Zips

Courtesy of Mount Union

Zippy

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University of Mount Union Football

Just a Kid from Akron

he world sees LeBron James as an NBA superstar and one of the sport’s all-time greatest players. Akronites also view him as their hometown hero for his countless contributions off the court.

His well-deserved accolades and incredible athletic achievements are undeniable, but LeBron’s steadfast, generous support for Akron also stands out.

Photos courtesy of LeBron James Family Foundation

Akron is where he and his family decided to base The LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF), which was established in 2004. Their philanthropic initiatives began in 2009 with a Bike-A-Thon—giving free bikes to Akron kids—in recognition of LeBron’s early years of biking around town with friends. In 2011, the LJFF created the I PROMISE Program (IPP), focusing on the life-changing power of education and providing at-risk children and their families with academic, emotional, and social support. The IPP serves 1,100 Akron Public School students in grades six through 11, plus 343 students in grades three through five at the I PROMISE School (IPS), which opened in 2018 with a STEMinfused hands-on curriculum that funnels all IPS students into the IPP. In 2015, the LJFF partnered with The University of Akron to guarantee free, four-year college scholarships to

LeBron James

every eligible I PROMISE student. The following year, he established the I PROMISE Institute at The University of Akron campus, providing his I PROMISE college students with a 24/7 resource center. In 2019, he announced the I PROMISE Village by LeBron James Home Cour t Graduate Hotels, giving students and their families who were experiencing immersive museum inside House challenges a safe place to Three Thirty that explores his stay. In 2020, the LJFF purchased upbringing, career, and accomplishthe iconic Tangier Restaurant and ments on and off the court. Visitors converted it into House Three receive a key on a string—representThirty—a hub for hands-on job training the latchkey LeBron carried as ing for underrepresented workers, a a child—that opens a door labeled “one-stop shop” for financial plan“602” leading to a replica of his ning, and a gathering space open to everyone, with dining, retail, arts, and childhood apartment and bedroom, filled with posters, trophies, and entertainment. sneakers displayed on milk crates. The museum also features a replica The LeBron James Home Court, of the St. Vincent-St. Mary locker which opened in 2023, is an room and artifacts from his career and personal life. Buckets, a full-service restaurant inside House Three Thirty, opened in 2026 and features menu items like “The Deviled Strip,” “Breaking Down Barriers Brussels Sprouts,” and “Promise Keeper Pasta,” showing the good humor and positive affirmations LeBron James shares off the court.

Courtesy of Buckets

Our admiration began when LeBron played basketball for St. VincentSt. Mary High School, where those who saw him play predicted great things. Immediately after graduating, he was the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA draft, becoming a Cleveland Cavalier and igniting a spark that never dimmed. Nicknamed “King James,” he was exciting to watch, a team leader, and our best hope for a national championship— one that came in 2016, ending a 52-year professional sports title drought and cementing his place in our hearts.

Buckets Restaurant at House Three Thirty

As LeBron has said, he is “just a kid from Akron.” We are grateful to this phenomenally talented, philanthropic man who has wrapped his arms around our community in ways that may have seemed impossible when he was biking around Akron with his buddies, dreaming big and working hard to make those dreams real. 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 55

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Courtesy of Old Trail School

Old Trail School

eeting the needs of our constantly evolving world requires a nimble mindset. While many people still follow traditional professional pathways—early education, high school, college, graduate school, career—others choose to forge their own way. Do you or your child have special needs? Have you always had an entrepreneurial outlook and want to explore owning a business? Are the skilled trades in your future? Do you know a craftsperson who might mentor you? Does a job change mean you need new skills? Are you embarking on a new phase of life? Whatever your educational, training, or support needs, you’ll find helping hands in the Greater Akron-Canton region. Early Childhood Education Akron Public Schools (APS) Serve every student by enriching his or her talents and interests

in Jewish values—with small classes, carefully selected teachers, and a fast-paced curriculum. Old Trail School Where closer relationships and deeper learning experiences take children farther.

APS develops well-rounded young people through strong, innovative programs that stimulate curiosity and For more than a century, Old Trail School in Bath has been one of appeal to passions for life and learnAkron’s most respected indepening. APS’s Early Learning Program dent schools—and today it remains helps pre-K students prepare for the nation’s only independent school by teaching key academic school located within a national concepts, listening skills, and more. park. Serving students from age two The program integrates typically through eighth grade, Old Trail comdeveloping children and those with bines exceptional academics with special needs, promoting greater meaningful relationships, preparing acceptance by all. children to think critically, act with compassion, and make a positive I PROMISE School difference in the world. We Are Family The mission of the I PROMISE School The school’s remarkable setting on is to create a home where the entire 62 acres within Cuyahoga Valley family is loved, and students are National Park is more than a beaueducated for the 21st century. This tiful campus. It serves as an extenempowers them to influence and sion of the classroom, enriching an improve our community and change experiential curriculum that helps the world. Its goal is to be a nationstudents make deeper connections ally recognized model of urban and to what they are learning. Younger public school excellence. students participate in dedicated nature classes, while older students The Lippman School build on those experiences through Global perspective. Individual Focus. outdoor education. Across grade Located in Akron, The Lippman levels, teachers thoughtfully incorSchool offers a globalized K-8 indeporate the surrounding woods, pendent school education—steeped streams, and meadows to enhance

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instruction—whether by conducting scientific investigations, inspiring creative writing, exploring local history, or making real-world connections in mathematics and art.

With an enrollment of about 450 students annually, Old Trail offers its families a welcoming community, transformative educational experiences, and a foundation that prepares children not only to succeed but to lead lives of purpose. Our Lady of the Elms Developing Women Leaders

As the only all-girls, faith-based K-12 school in Summit County, The Elms creates space for girls to lead with confidence, speak with conviction, and grow into the kind of women the world needs: bold thinkers, compassionate doers, and joyful changemakers. St. Sebastian Parish School Inspiring the Critical Thinkers of Tomorrow

This faith-based Pre-K through 8 school in Akron has been awarded The Ohio Governor’s Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM education multiple times and was also honored with the Diocese of Cleveland Catholic 58 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

I PROMISE School

Higher Education Courtesy of Akron Public Schools

Character education is equally central to the Old Trail experience. Guided by the school’s four core values—Respect, Responsibility, Goodness, and Service—students learn that how they achieve is just as important as what they achieve. These values shape everyday interactions, leadership opportunities, and service experiences, fostering integrity, empathy, and a commitment to making a positive difference.

Courtesy of LeBron James Family Foundation

Small classes and exceptional teachers ensure that every child is known, challenged, and encouraged to reach their full potential. Through the Center for Global Understanding, Middle School students also have opportunities to participate in immersive educational travel experiences in destinations such as Italy and Japan, developing cultural awareness, global perspective, and confidence in an increasingly interconnected world.

Akron Public Schools

Schools Christ the Teacher Award for Academic Growth multiple times. Stark County Schools There are 30 Stark County school districts with more than 100 elementary, middle, and high schools. Stark County has education covered from Canton to Alliance to Canal Fulton to Navarre to Massillon. Together, the districts serve over 60,000 students across a wide range of communities, big and small. Every student gets a quality education—no matter which corner of the county they call home. Summit Academy Schools A supportive, structured environment tailored to students with ADHD, Autism, and other learning differences.

Serving Akron, Canton, and other Ohio locations, Summit Academy is a proud cohort member of Ohio’s Lead for Literacy Institute. Its mission is to design, develop, and deliver educational opportunities in a therapeutic environment so everyone can learn. Grades K-12.

Malone University Celebrating more than 130 years of higher education, Malone University in Canton is a Christian university for the arts, sciences, and professions in the liberal arts tradition, affiliated with the Evangelical Friends Church. Malone provides a faith-integrated education that equips its graduates to identify God’s calling for their lives while gaining the skills necessary to serve, engage, and transform the communities in which they live and work. In 2025, Malone was again selected by Education Insider as a Top Christian College. It was also ranked by ModernThink for the third time as a “Great College to Work For,” receiving its second Honor Roll designation in 2025. This national recognition places Malone in elite company, as only 76 institutions in the U.S. were included, and only 42 of those were Honor Roll institutions. Forbes Advisor selected Malone as one of the Best Master’s in Mental Health Counseling Online programs for 2023, and Washington Monthly again included Malone on its Best Bang for the Buck list based on its performance with graduation rates and test scores, as well as the price of education and graduates’ salaries. Over the last three years, 94% of graduates from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program passed the National Council Licensure

Aultman College of Nursing

Examination (NCLEX-RN) on their first attempt. Additionally, registerednursing.org ranked Malone the No. 3 school in Ohio for 2026. Malone University has had four faculty Fulbright Scholars in the last fifteen years, and 76% of the full-time faculty have earned the terminal degree in their discipline. Unapologetically Christian, Malone’s faith-integrated curriculum helps students understand how their faith impacts all areas of life, including intellectual, spiritual, and community pursuits. Faculty and staff walk alongside students as they discover who God has called them to be.

Aultman College offers associate degrees in radiography, sonography, nursing, and health sciences; bachelor’s degrees in nursing (including the RN to BSN completion program); a medical assisting certificate; and College Credit Plus for high school students. With nearly 400 students enrolled, Aultman College offers the best of both worlds: a close-knit, supportive community paired with the strength and resources of a major health system. Hiram College Explore Your Possibilities

Hiram College is a small private college in a prime Portage County location with convenient access to internships, cultural experiences, and professional networks. It offers the Tuition Guarantee,

Courtesy of Hiram College

Courtesy of Aultman Hospital

the Aultman Health System—Stark County’s largest hospital and employer—and has the longestrunning nursing education program in the region.

Hiram College

Malone’s Pendle Hill Pledge is a campus-wide commitment to support the vocational and personal growth of every Malone student through mentoring, experiential learning, and holistic career preparation across the curriculum. Before graduation, 100% of Malone students receive valuable hands-on learning opportunities. The annual Research Symposium allows students to work closely with faculty members to formally present their own research, showcasing the academic and creative work that prepares undergraduates for graduate-level education. Significant Malone-funded financial aid ($16 million in 2025) is one way that Malone University demonstrates a commitment to affordability for all students. Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences Preparing skilled, compassionate healthcare leaders through education, experience, and innovation

Located near downtown Canton, Aultman College sits alongside 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 59

Hiram’s academic programs are organized into four schools: the School of Arts, Humanities and Politics; the Scarborough School of Business and Communication; the School of Health, Education, Sustainability, and Society; and the School of Science and Technology. Each school has its own focus; however, the overall mission of the schools is to foster integrated and experiential learning for all students through an interdisciplinary and collaborative framework that operates within and among each school. Kent State University Begin Where You Belong

With eight campuses spanning Northeast Ohio, a College of Podiatric Medicine, a Twinsburg Academic Center, and academic sites in locations around the globe (such as New York City; Florence, Italy; and Curitiba, Brazil), Kent State is one of Ohio’s leading public universities and a major educational, economic, and cultural resource far beyond the Northeast Ohio region it has served since 1910. At Kent State University, you’ll find more than 300 degrees and programs, more than 200 student organizations, and a welcoming campus community that will empower you to thrive in your studies, your interests, and your future. Kent State University is the highest-ranked public university in northern Ohio on the Top Public Schools and Best National Universities lists by U.S. News & World Report. Kent State is the only one of five institutions in Ohio that is recognized as an R1 top-tier research university by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. 60 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

Courtesy of Mount Union

Courtesy of NEOMED

NEOMED

Mount Union

Kent State University commencement

Stark State College

Courtesy of Stark State College

Hiram provides an educational experience that focuses on personal growth, academic achievement, and hands-on learning. Students have diverse programs to choose from and learn in classrooms with a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

Bob Christy

which locks in tuition rates for all four years of college.

Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) Creating transformational healthcare leaders

As Ohio’s health and science university, NEOMED prepares future leaders in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and the health sciences through innovative education, collaborative research, and service to the community. NEOMED strengthens our region’s healthcare workforce and builds healthier Ohio communities through partnerships with hospitals, health systems, universities, and community organizations; faculty and researcher collaborations across disciplines; and a focus on service that fosters compassion, professionalism, and leadership in every graduate. NEOMED has four colleges (medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and graduate studies) and offers the Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.), and Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degrees, along with master’s and doctoral programs, and research opportunities in medical and life sciences. The newest college—the Bitonte College of Dentistry—welcomed its first class of students in 2025. NEOMED has a growing national presence in neurodegenerative research and is committed to

improving the lives of individuals who are living with Parkinson’s disease. Stark State College Stark State College positively influences the life of each student and our communities by providing access to high-quality, affordable, and in-demand education. Stark State College’s Main Campus is located in North Canton, with additional campuses in Akron and the Downtown Canton Satellite Center. It is the fifth largest of the 23 public two-year colleges in the University System of Ohio. This College maintains an “open door” policy and welcomes anyone who wishes to receive a higher education. Open admission carries with it the full weight of equal opportunity for all, which means the College makes every effort to be sensitive and responsive to prospective students’ needs, allowing students to enroll in the College but not necessarily in a specific degree-granting program. Stark State offers more than 200 associate degrees and certificates in business, education, engineering technologies, health and public services, information technology, liberal arts, mathematics, and sciences. Its wide range of short-term

Courtesy of Walsh University

Walsh University

Courtesy of The University of Akron

More than 2,200 undergraduate and graduate students who study at Mount Union come from 30 states and 16 countries, and the 123-acre campus has an additional 162-acre Nature Center, top-notch academic buildings, a state-ofthe-art academic and athletic complex, and a variety of residential housing options. The University of Akron

certificates helps employees improve skills and gain a competitive edge in a marketplace of rapidly changing technology. The University of Akron (UA) The World Needs More Yes

Founded in 1870, The University of Akron (UA) is a publicly assisted metropolitan institution that offers comprehensive programs of instruction from associate through doctoral levels; pursues a vigorous agenda of research in the arts, sciences, and professions; and provides service to the community. UA is a world leader in polymers, offering students an unmatched opportunity to launch careers in one of the most dynamic industries in Northeast Ohio and beyond. Through worldclass teaching and cutting-edge research, students build a strong foundation in polymer chemistry, physics, and engineering while exploring specialized areas such as sustainability, processing, and biomaterials. Akron Early College High School on the UA campus is designed for first-generation college students. Students who have 60 college credit hours by high school graduation can earn an associate’s degree from The University of Akron.

Walsh University With championship-winning NCAA Division I sports teams, hundreds of student organizations, and a nationally ranked Student Recreation and Wellness Center, UA provides students with the full-campus experience. The University of Mount Union Show Up Bold; Show Up Strong.

The University of Mount Union, a private Midwestern institution founded in 1846, offers a rigorous and relevant academic program that is grounded in the liberal arts tradition. Mount Union’s students can select from broad-based and career-specific undergraduate majors as well as graduate programs. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15:1, and the average class size is 18. Students can choose from 44 undergraduate majors and more than 55 undergraduate minors. Mount Union offers graduate programs in Physician Assistant Studies, Education, Business Administration, Nursing Family Nurse Practitioner, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy— as well as certificate programs in Athletic Coaching, Family Nurse Practitioner, Instructional Design and Technology, and Ohio Principal Licensure.

More than a degree. Your education partner for life.

As a Catholic university that welcomes students from 42 states and 35 countries and offers undergraduate, graduate, and online adult accelerated degree programs, Walsh’s ultimate mission is to develop leaders in service to others. Walsh University has small class sizes, hands-on experiential learning opportunities, interdisciplinary institutes, internships, and global learning programs. Plus, a Walsh education is affordable, with 98% of students receiving some form of financial aid. Walsh’s unique character and commitment to faith—along with nearly 100 academic majors and minors, award-winning athletics, and vibrant student life—attract students from around the globe. The campus has outstanding academic facilities, chapels, residence halls, a health and wellness complex, and flagship programs in the areas of health sciences, business, education, and more.

Trade Schools, Mentorships, Apprenticeships, and Other Career Opportunities As demand for skilled tradespeople grows, so do training and educational opportunities. In the Greater 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 61

Akron-Canton region, there are many places where you can learn your trade of choice; the following is a snapshot of possibilities. Akron Area Electrical JATC Earn while you learn.

Beyond Expectations Barber College (BEBC) The mission of the BEBC is to provide a quality vocational education experience that surpasses all expectations. Akronites do not need to leave the community to become a licensed barber in the State of Ohio. There is wonderful potential for gainful employment and a successful career in barbering through the BEBC. Fortis Colleges & Institutes What you do today can change your life.

At Fortis, students acquire the skills needed to pursue new careers that are in demand in today’s job market. The student-faculty ratio and class sizes allow for personal attention (in person as well as online), and instructors often are working professionals in their fields who take students beyond the textbook. Programs include nursing, healthcare/medical, dental, medical technologies, skilled trades, commercial driving, and beauty and wellness. Each Fortis college and institute is institutionally accredited. Cuyahoga Falls is our region’s Fortis location. Gerber’s Akron Beauty School

Courtesy of Larock Healthcare Academy

The Akron Area Electrical JATC delivers high-quality training to apprentices at all different levels of education. Even if you only know how to screw in a light bulb, this program can help you reach new levels of success with Inside and Residential apprenticeships and Construction Wireman training. Through classes and on-the-job training, students graduate as journey-level electricians—while earning a solid paycheck. Larock Healthcare Academy

those who have the General Education Development (GED) certificate, with courses that teach you how to become a cosmetologist, manicurist, or esthetician. Located in Akron. The Hamrick School Be driven to succeed at Hamrick School

Since 1980, more than 10,000 students have graduated from Hamrick’s truck driver training program, which includes classroom instruction as well as behind-the-wheel experience. Hamrick will help you become a safe, knowledgeable, and professional driver, leading to a career that allows you to work independently and to travel the country. In today’s business environment, truck drivers play a vital role in delivering the materials and products needed to keep countless companies running successfully. Located in Medina. Larock Healthcare Academy Ready to start a brand-new career in the medical field?

Larock Healthcare Academy—located in Canton—offers programs that

include phlebotomy technician, nurse’s aide, and medical assistant, among others. With flexible schedules of classes offered during the day, evenings, or weekends, Larock supports students through their educational journey. No prior healthcare experience is needed, and instructors have many years of field experience and industry expertise. Students can become nationally certified by the accredited American Medical Certification Association (AMCA) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) for most programs. Portage Lakes Career Center (PLCC) Extraordinary experiences. Every student. Every Day.

Since 1977, PLCC—a leading careertech school located in Uniontown— has offered respected, affordable, and convenient career-tech training. Just a few of the courses and programs offered are: Automotive Service Technician, Cosmetology and Esthetician, Manufacturing and Welding, Practical Nursing, and Culinary and Hospitality. Seasoned

Practical learning and experience.

Accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences and licensed by the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology, Gerber’s trains men and women for positions in the beauty industry. The school accepts high school graduates or 62 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

The blue lights of an Ohio airfield are the hundred eyes of a peacock tail. —“The Flyers” from “Prairie Fever” by Mary Biddinger, Akron poet

Stark State College Start on your path to career success today!

You don’t need to be enrolled in a degree program to work toward a certificate at Stark State College. With these certificate programs, you can broaden your current work skills (or develop new ones); prepare for a transition into a differenst career; unlock new job options; or earn college credit toward a degree with short-term, credit-bearing certificates. Plus, certificate courses are offered in person and online. Stark State’s main campus is in North Canton, and it has a downtown Canton Satellite Center as well as a campus in Akron. The University of Akron (UA) Online Certificate Programs The World Needs More Yes

UA makes education more accessible for students who want to supercharge their career prospects by selecting from a variety of certificate programs, exploring emerging and highgrowth industries, and standing out in the job market. Just a few of the most forward-thinking certificate programs offered by UA include Construction Field Operations, Artificial Intelligence, and Museum and Archive Studies.

The Massillon Museum is the Ohio Arts Council’s Northeast Ohio regional partner for Poetry Out Loud!—a national arts education program that encourages the study of great poetry by offering free educational materials and a recitation competition to high schools across the country. It is a partnership among the National Endowment for the Arts, the Poetry Foundation, and state and jurisdictional arts agencies.

A Region Built on Opportunity: Education in Greater Akron

cross Summit, Medina, Portage, and Stark counties, the Greater Akron region is home to a vibrant and deeply interconnected education ecosystem, one that supports learners from early childhood through career and beyond. This dynamic network is not only central to student success but also serves as a powerful engine for regional economic vitality, ensuring that local industries have the talent they need to grow and thrive. Today, approximately 185,000 to 190,000 students are enrolled in K-12 education across the four-county region. The majority, nearly 80%, attend traditional public schools, complemented by a diverse mix of non-public, charter, and specialized STEM schools. Together, these institutions provide families with a wide range of educational pathways tailored to different interests, learning styles, and futures. A defining feature of the region’s approach to education is its commitment to preparing students for life beyond high school. Many districts have embraced a Portrait of a Graduate, outlining the knowledge, skills, and mindsets students should carry forward into adulthood. Whether pursuing higher education, entering the workforce, or serving in the military, graduates are equipped to take their next step with confidence. Increasingly, students are discovering their passions long before graduation. In Akron Public Schools, for example, the College and Career Academies of Akron immerse high school students in career pathways aligned with their interests. Through real-world experiences, such as internships, workplace visits, and project-based learning, students gain valuable insight into industries ranging from healthcare and business to advanced manufacturing and the arts. This emphasis on career-connected learning extends throughout the region. Collaborative efforts like the Six District Educational Compact bring together our suburban school

David W. James

Shane Wynn

educators, cutting-edge facilities, and education programs tailored to meet student needs— that’s what you’ll find at PLCC.

systems to offer career and technical education across a wide array of fields. These programs bridge classroom learning with hands-on experience, helping students build practical skills while exploring potential careers. Beyond high school, the region’s colleges and universities, including The University of Akron, Kent State University, and Stark State College, provide flexible and accessible pathways to in-demand careers. From traditional degree programs to short-term credentialing and workforce training, these institutions serve learners at every stage of life. Opportunities in fields such as polymers, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, business, and the arts reflect the breadth of innovation and industry that defines Northeast Ohio. Importantly, these institutions emphasize applied learning. Internships, cooperative education programs, and community partnerships allow students to translate classroom knowledge into real-world impact—often while contributing directly to the region’s economic and cultural vitality. Whether a student is just beginning their educational journey, preparing to graduate, or seeking new skills later in life, Greater Akron offers a supportive and opportunity-rich environment. Here, education is more than a system—it is a shared commitment to progress, prosperity, and possibility. David W. James, Ed.D. Executive Director Summit Education Initiative 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 63

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All photos Courtesy of Akron Children’s Hospital

Akron Children’s Hospital

ealthcare systems in the Greater AkronCanton region include nationally ranked providers, leading research companies, an innovative medical and dental school, and imaginative educators. When you live here, excellent medical care is close at hand. Akron Children’s Hospital

We specialize in one thing—kids.

Akron Children’s is the only healthcare system in Northeast Ohio that is solely focused on pediatric care and is 100% dedicated to protecting, preserving, and enriching every stage of childhood. Families have access to pediatric specialists at two hospital campuses, eight regional health centers, and more than 50 primary and specialty care locations across Northeast and Southeast Ohio. Its pediatric specialties are ranked among the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report. With its vast network of Akron Children’s Pediatrics’ offices, the health system offers convenient access to expert pediatric primary care for patients from infancy through young adulthood. In 2024, Akron Children’s provided nearly 1.5 million patient encounters and employed more than 7,300 people. From school-based health care to Quick Care Online virtual visits and the Akron Children’s Mother and Baby app, Akron Children’s makes it easy for today’s busy families to find the high-quality care they need. Founded in 1890 on the principle of serving the needs of the community. This means treating all children as if they were its own and turning no child or family away based on their ability to pay. In the community, Akron Children’s is committed to improving access to healthcare services for children and families, enhancing public health, advancing medical or health knowledge, and reducing the burden of government or other community efforts. Akron Children’s is addressing food insecurity and access to healthy foods through its Food Farmacies in Akron and Boardman by providing income-eligible families of patients with chronic health conditions access to food and personal items. In Akron from 2024-25, it provided 131,133 meals and served more than 26,000 kids and families. In 2025, Akron Children’s earned Magnet recognition for the fifth time—an elite distinction achieved by fewer than 2% of hospitals nationwide—recognizing sustained excellence in nursing and patient care. Awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, it is the highest national recognition for professional nursing practice and reflects an organization’s commitment to quality, safety, and patient outcomes. Akron Children’s Hospital 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 65

In 2025, Akron Children’s was: Named one of the World’s Best Specialized Hospitals in pediatrics and one of the World’s Best Smart Hospitals by Newsweek. Recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Employers for Healthcare Professionals. Nationally ranked in Pediatric and Adolescent Behavioral Health, Pediatric Neurology & Neurosurgery, Pediatric Orthopedics, Pediatric Pulmonology & Lung Surgery, and Pediatric Urology in the U.S. News & World Report annual ranking of the Best Children’s Hospitals. Named to the Forbes list of America’s Best-in-State Employers. Recognized with a Joy in Medicine award for efforts at preventing physician burnout and helping clinicians rediscover the meaning and joy of practicing medicine. Named by Newsweek as one of America’s best children’s hospitals in Cardiology & Cardiac Surgery, Endocrinology, Neonatology, and Orthopedics.

Aultman Hospital

Aultman Health System Caring for Our Community.

In 2019, Aultman opened its first freestanding emergency department in Massillon, and in 2022, it opened the region’s first comprehensive cancer center at the Canton campus, the Timken Family Cancer Center. Aultman’s Cancer Center is also affiliated with University Hospitals (UH) 66 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

Photos courtesy of Aultman Hospital

Aultman Hospital, Stark County’s first hospital, opened in 1892. The nonprofit hospital has more than 7,000 employees across the healthcare system and more than 1,000 active providers. Aultman Health System provides comprehensive healthcare services, including heart, cancer and emergency care, along with a broad spectrum of other specialties and services. With 300 locations, Aultman serves seven counties across the region, spanning multiple hospitals, outpatient facilities, physician offices, therapy locations, and hospice care.

Aultman Hospital

Last year, Aultman Health System collectively had more than 870,000 outpatient visits, nearly 140,000 emergency room visits, and delivered more than 3,200 new babies. First in Ohio to implement schoolbased health clinics, which use innovative virtual care technology to help keep students and teachers in the classroom. Aultman offers these clinics in 12 districts in Carroll, Stark, Tuscarawas, and Wayne counties.

Cleveland Clinic Hospitals in the Akron-Canton Region The Cleveland Clinic’s strong presence in Greater Akron-Canton includes four hospitals (Akron General, Lodi Hospital, Medina Hospital, and Mercy Hospital); outpatient facilities in Alliance, Bath, Brunswick, Canton, Louisville, Medina, Stow, and Uniontown; and express and urgent care facilities in Brunswick, Hudson, Kent, Massillon, North Canton, Stow-Munroe Falls, Tallmadge, Uniontown, and Wadsworth. Cleveland Clinic Akron General Courtesy of Cleveland Clinic

Serving the needs of Akron and the surrounding communities of Summit County.

Cleveland Clinic Mercy Medical Center

Seidman Cancer Center, bringing the oncology expertise from UH and Aultman together with convenient, close-to-home treatment in Stark County. Aultman’s wide variety of unique, state-of-the-art services range from complex TAVR and Watchman heart procedures to groundbreaking new technology such as the Inspire therapy for sleep apnea, as well as comprehensive medical, surgical, interventional and radiation cancer care, robotics-assisted surgeries, and more. It also participates in clinical research, pioneering future cardiac and cancer treatments.

Additionally, Aultman serves as a teaching hospital, offering nine different residency and fellowship programs in interventional cardiology, cardiovascular disease, pharmacy, OB/GYN, radiology, orthopedics, emergency medicine, family medicine, and internal medicine. Spans more than 300 locations serving seven counties in the region. Employs more than 7,000 employees and more than 1,000 active providers. Provides 1,032 private beds for the comfort of patients and their families.

Founded in 1914 as Peoples Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Akron General is a not-for-profit healthcare organization that serves as the hub for the Cleveland Clinic’s Southern Region. In addition to a 532-bed teaching and research medical center in downtown Akron, the Cleveland Clinic Akron General system includes: Lodi Hospital Serving the needs of southwest Medina County and portions of Lorain, Ashland, and Wayne Counties.

This critical access hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including a 24-hour Emergency Department; outpatient surgery; a full range of diagnostics, rehabilitation, and physical therapy; and acute and skilled care. Health & Wellness Centers, located in Bath, Green, and Stow, offer a variety of integrated outpatient services, 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 67

Courtesy of Cleveland Clinic

including 24-hour Emergency Departments, primary and specialty care practices, and a medically supervised exercise program. Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital Serving the needs of Medina County and surrounding communities since 1944.

Courtesy of Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital

Located on the corridor to the Medina community, Medina Hospital is a 148bed acute care facility that features the latest technology and procedures, has more than 300 physicians on the Medical Staff, and covers more than 30 areas of specialization. The Emergency Department treats everything from minor problems to critical injuries and illnesses. Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital Proudly serving the needs of Stark, Carroll, Wayne, Holmes, and Tuscarawas Counties.

Founded in 1908 and sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine, this Catholic faith-based medical center operates a 476-bed hospital in Canton and outpatient locations in Alliance, Carroll County, Jackson Township, Lake Township, Louisville, Massillon, North Canton, Plain Township, and Tuscarawas County. It has 620 members on its Medical Staff and employs 2,800 caregivers. Mercy received an “A” in the most recently published safety grades by the Leapfrog Group.

Courtesy of Summa Health

Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital

Summa Health System The Summa Health System—an integrated healthcare delivery system— is now a part of HATCo (Health Assurance Transformation Company). As such, it is embarking on a longterm vision to create a new, more proactive, accessible, and affordable system of community-based, lifelong healthcare. Summa Health System Akron Campus A Top-Ranked Hospital in Akron.

Previously known as Akron City Hospital, this Summa Campus has achieved national recognition as a provider of quality, compassionate healthcare.

Summa Health System 68 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

Kaitlyn May, D.O. Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Akron Children’s Hospital Moved from Metro Detroit to the Akron area in 2019 Biggest surprise: How amazing the hiking and walking trails are here. There are hundreds of miles of beautiful trails, with a variety of landscapes and terrain, no matter what time of year. My favorite trail is the Ledges. Out-of-town visitor picks: We discovered a bunch of cool local spots by working our way through both the Summit Brew Path Passport and Drip Drive Passport, which highlight local breweries and coffee shops. It was an awesome way to see several towns around Akron and often led us to finding other cool local things to do. I highly recommend the Howe Meadow Farmer’s Market on Saturdays; the selection there is always changing. Favorite restaurants: 3 Palms Pizzeria in Hudson and The Merchant Tavern in the Valley in Akron. Favorite wineries: The Wine Mill in Cuyahoga Falls, Sarah’s Vineyard in Cuyahoga Falls, and Michaelangelo’s in Richfield.

Local day trip spot: going up to Cleveland for major league sports games and concerts, or wine tasting in the Geneva-on-the-Lake area. Favorite special occasion spot: Amelia’s in Cuyahoga Falls. Favorite local traditions: Downtown Cuyahoga Falls hosts several festivals that are so much fun!: Nightmare on Front Street for Halloween, Oktoberfest, Irish Fest, Italian Fest, and Falls Friday every Friday night in the summer.

Bruce Ford

Favorite Breweries: HiHO in Cuyahoga Falls and Green Valley Brewing Co. in Hudson.

Most adventurous, new experience: Floating on the Cuyahoga River in a tube. Favorite thing about relocating: This is such an amazing place to raise children. There are so many fun things to do with kids, no matter the weather.

We love going to the Akron Zoo, the Akron Children’s Museum, Akron Rubber Ducks games, and Majestic Meadows in Medina—and there are many playgrounds and splash pads.

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Summa Health System Barberton Campus

The Barberton Emergency Department has 32 private rooms and an additional 10-bed “fast-track” treatment area. This Summa Campus is located approximately 10 miles southwest of Akron, Ohio.

200 physician offices in 16 counties throughout northern Ohio. University Hospitals is consistently ranked among the nation’s best hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. It has received prestigious awards and recognition for high-quality care, a personalized patient experience, and the latest in medical and research innovations.

Summa Rehab Hospital

Western Reserve Hospital

Meeting the Needs of the Growing Barberton Community.

Proudly named one of America’s best physical rehabilitation centers in 2025.

This locally managed rehab hospital specializes in inpatient and outpatient rehabilitative services and is in a partnership with Ernest Health, a network of rehabilitation and long-term acute care hospitals that share information, knowledge, and resources to continually evaluate and improve the delivery of patient care.

University Hospitals The Science of Health. The Art of Compassion.

Founded in 1866, University Hospitals serves the needs of patients through an integrated network of 21 hospitals (including five joint ventures), more than 50 health centers and outpatient facilities, and more than

Proudly Physician Owned.

Western Reserve Hospital serves as one of Northeast Ohio’s most advanced community hospitals, dedicated not only to exceptional patient care and excellence in healthcare services but also to education, community outreach, and the overall wellness of Cuyahoga Falls and the surrounding areas. Owned and operated by physicians in the community, the hospital is committed to delivering 100% patient-centered care, reinforced by the entire staff’s shared commitment to patient satisfaction and improved healthcare delivery. Western Reserve Hospital is Google’s highest-rated hospital in Northeast Ohio, an achievement that recognizes true excellence as experienced by

patients. And it’s one of only 377 hospitals in the United States to receive the Healthgrades 2025 Outstanding Patient Experience Award.

Yoga, Pilates, and barre classes help to build strength, improve balance, and increase flexibility. Following are a few local studios where you can find your community. Harvest Yoga + Wellness Studio— Cuyahoga Falls Li’l Yoga Shop—New Franklin Merriman Valley Pilates—Akron One Love Yoga—Kent Peace Core Studios—Akron Release Yoga—Green Rogue Awakening—Fairlawn Tru Barre Studio—Akron and Medina Yoga Bliss—Fairlawn Yoga Central—Canton Yoga Lounge & Barre—Hudson The Yoga Place and Yoga Central— North Canton & Canton Yoga Squared—Highland Square Yoga Strong—Canton

Courtesy of Summa Health

Summa Health

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Sara Whittingham, M.D. Finding the Good

Their optimism was strengthened by the friendliness of the people they met in Northeast Ohio when the family traveled out for the formal announcement that John would be the new president of NEOMED (Ohio’s Rootstown-based health and sciences university). On the return trip to Salt Lake City in 2019, a TSA agent, hearing they had been house hunting, told John, “I hope you move here. We’ll see you when you get back.” Those welcoming words—and the beauty of the area—gave them even more confidence than they already had. That December, they began to do what every transplant does: John rolled up his sleeves and got to work, they enrolled their children in school, and Sara began job hunting. In March, she accepted a position at Cleveland Clinic Marymount Hospital in Garfield Heights, just as the COVID-19 lockdown began. As an active family, it was a good time for hiking explorations. Then, in November, things changed again when Sara was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Symptoms she’d been experiencing—trouble sleeping, a tremor in one arm, difficulty with steps—now made sense. For this triathlete and lifelong runner, the diagnosis sent her spinning. “I went through the stages of grief. I pictured a future of disability.” Running, hiking, and triathlons had all been significant and joyful parts of her life, shared

Courtesy of NEOMED

hen Dr. Sara Whittingham and her husband, Dr. John Langell, moved with their family to Northeast Ohio from Utah, it was with the expectation that good things were on the horizon. Their journey together had begun when they each served in the Air Force, and this would be another exciting yet challenging adventure. Sara Whittingham, M.D.

with her father, husband, and friends. Shelving them would be devastating. Suddenly a patient, rather than a doctor, Sara began working with doctors to find a balance of medications to manage her symptoms. Since studies show that activity helps people with Parkinson’s, she enrolled in a clinical study run by Dr. Jay L. Alberts at the Cleveland Clinic: the CYCLE (CYClical Lower Extremity Exercise for Parkinson’s) Trial. The combination of medications and exercise helped her find her footing— and something more. “I found hope and the importance and power of gratitude. I haven’t always been this big optimist. But now I try to find the good in almost every situation.” She decided to race again, competing in a triathlon near the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022 and the New York City Marathon in 2025. Sara also looked beyond her own diagnosis to the greater community of people with Parkinson’s. She became a leading advocate for patient-centered research, education, and awareness, contributing her expertise to NEOMED’s Neurodegenerative Research Focus Area and helping raise money for research on exercise’s role in alleviating Parkinson’s symptoms. And she

wrote and narrated the audiobook “Oh Crap! It’s Parkinson’s: A Rebel’s Guide to Taking Back Control of Your Life,” which draws on insights from people with Parkinson’s and covers topics like “Navigating Grief and Fear,” “Turning Parkinson’s Into Power,” and “When Resources Are Limited.” Recently, she was appointed to the Advisory Council on Parkinson’s Research, Care, and Services, a federal body convened by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, where she’ll help shape national research priorities and care models. She’s also passionate about advocating for fellow veterans who are disproportionately affected by this disease, and she tries to inspire others, especially younger people, who’ve been diagnosed. Advice she offers to the newly diagnosed? “Connect with the Parkinson’s community as quickly as you can. They will help you realize there is a positive future. We have amazing resources in Northeast Ohio.” As she notes in her book, “Hope can look like movement. Movement can look like redemption. And sometimes the impossible is not a wall; it is a door waiting for you to step through.”

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The Jewell Method

harnise Lewis—born and raised in Goodyear Heights—is a registered nurse who works at the Cleveland Clinic’s Main Campus, supporting patients on their health journeys. Her work is meaningful and personally gratifying; however, over the years, her job’s physical and mental demands began to take a toll on her own health. It was nothing major: a lack of energy when she was not working, achy joints, and a sore back after her work shifts ended. But for someone who has always been active, those issues were unexpected and unwelcome. She decided to do something about it, and that determination led her to try yoga.

“I’m a hiker, and I’ve worked out in gyms,” she says. “But Pilates gave me a different kind of feeling.” As her practice deepened, she began to consider the idea of becoming a Pilates instructor. She wanted to share with others the benefits of yoga and Pilates—the strength building, the improved flexibility and balance, the mental release after a robust practice. And she wanted to reach and serve

what she notes is an “untapped audience”—women and men of all ages, sizes, shapes, and colors. She began training (while working full-time), became a certified Mat 1

All photos Courtesy of Charnise Lewis

She began practicing at Peace Core Studios on Main Street in Akron. She took hot yoga, restorative, and yin classes. Then she jumped into Pilates and barre classes. Soon she was exercising three or four times a week, and her body quickly responded. Her “aches and pains” lessened. Her posture improved. Her core became stronger. She had more energy. She felt more like herself.

Charnise Lewi

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The response was overwhelmingly positive. Her first class at Royal Vault Gym in West Akron had 40 enthusiastic women. After that, she reached out to House Three Thirty and asked if she could use their community space. They agreed, and in March 2026, 120 Pilates students filled her class. “It was amazing,” she says. Now she and her friend and yoga instructor Jamilla Bowens teach at various places in Akron. You might find them at House Three Thirty on a Saturday morning, with Jamilla teaching a one-hour yoga class and Charnise following with her one-hour Pilates class. Or they might be at a dance studio on Romig Road in West Akron. Or they might host a pop-up class in a local park. No matter where she is, Charnise is determined to break down barriers to attending class. The cost is low—typically $10 or sometimes free. No preregistration is required. She plays music (sometimes live), ranging from jazz to reggae to R&B. Classes are beginner-friendly, but she also offers modifications to accommodate seasoned practitioners. She wants people to know that “a strong core does not mean a six-pack.” Anyone can take her classes and feel welcomed and comfortable. For Charnise Lewis, this is, has been, and will continue to be a full-circle journey of good health, friendships, and giving back to the community. It is her Jewell Method.

Jota Nakano, M.D., Ph.D. Staff surgeon in the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Miller Family Heart, Vascular and Thoracic Institute at Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital Dr. Nakano is originally from Japan and has lived in the U.S. for more than 10 years. He now resides with his family in the greater AkronCanton area. Out-of-town visitor picks: I would definitely take them to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It’s a fantastic place to unwind and see the natural beauty of Northeast Ohio. It’s the perfect spot to bring a good camera for some landscape photography, or to enjoy a quiet walk away from the screens and monitors. On the healthcare climate in the Akron-Canton area: Healthcare here is exceptionally strong. The opportunity to work with great local institutions, combined with academic ties to places like Case Western, was very appealing. It allows me to bring advanced cardiovascular research and specialized surgical techniques directly to this community, meaning patients don’t have to travel far for toplevel care. Tips for newcomers to AkronCanton: Embrace the local pace but stay curious. The area is easy to get around, so take the time to drive through different parks and check out local businesses. I also recommend making your home a comfortable sanctuary—whether that’s setting up a kitchen you love to cook in or finding local shops that carry ingredients that remind you of your hometown.

Courtesy of Cleveland Clinic

Pilates instructor, and launched her business: Jewell Method Pilates. The name recognizes that “every jewel is not the same, and every jewel evolves under pressure.” Then she leveraged Instagram and Facebook to promote her classes.

Jota Nakano, M.D., Ph.D.

Local customs or traditions you find interesting: The deep community pride here is amazing, especially the local enthusiasm for football and Ohio history. It’s a very vibrant, uniquely American tradition. It brings neighborhoods together with an energy that is quite different from the culture I experienced growing up in Japan. One thing you love most about your new community: The genuine warmth of the people and the sense of stability. It’s a place where I can do highly complex, intense work during the day, but then come home, enjoy a quiet evening with my family, and completely recharge.

@thejewellmethod Facebook: Charnise Jewell charniselewis@icloud.com 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 73

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Courtesy of Stewart’s Caring Place

Stewart’s Caring Place Hope Walk

ommunity matters. Take a good look and you’ll see that Greater Akron-Canton residents and leaders are dedicated to the common good. Whether you need support or can offer it to someone else, we welcome you. No matter your background or abilities, there is a place for you— right here. . .right now. . .with us. The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank serves eight Northeast Ohio counties: Carroll, Holmes, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas, and Wayne. They provide food and other essential items to more than 600 hunger-relief partners—food pantries, meal sites, shelters, children’s and senior programs, and other hunger-relief programs—in neighborhoods and communities where people need food. The Akron Community Foundation—whose motto is “By the People, For the People”—was established in 1955 with a $1 million bequest from Edwin Shaw. Today, the foundation has more than 900 charitable funds, has grown to more than $350 million in assets, and has distributed more than $270 million in grants. The foundation is a trusted way for generous individuals, families, companies, and nonprofits to support favorite causes for the greater good of our community. The Akron Rotary Camp for Children with Special Needs has operated since 1926. This cherished and trusted resource provides special needs campers with opportunities to experience traditional camping activities, develop friendships, learn life skills, and make memories that will last a lifetime. The camp serves children and adults with a wide range of developmental and physical disabilities, as well as mental health disorders, in summer day, summer overnight, and school year respite camping programs. The Akron Urban League is committed to improving the quality of life of Summit County citizens, particularly African Americans, by advocating for and facilitating programs that are economically and educationally transformational. The Akron Urban League Young Professionals (AULYP) offers opportunities for emerging leaders ages 21-40 to participate in professional development programs, philanthropy, and civic engagement. If you have a passion for empowering our community and changing lives, you are welcome to join! Asian Services in Action (ASIA) strives to serve, support, and advocate for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs), immigrants, and refugees. They provide wraparound health and social services in Northeast Ohio in multiple languages, including after-school programs, financial education, primary healthcare, and more. 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 75

Gigi’s Playhouse Canton is a place where individuals with Down syndrome have a place to call their own, where they feel safe, and where they can explore their abilities through proven programs in a supportive, celebratory environment. No matter the age, individuals with Down syndrome and their families and caregivers are welcomed into this amazing community. All resources, support, and services are delivered by a team of trained volunteers and are offered at no cost to families.

Courtesy of Habitat for Humanity of Summit County

The Community AIDS Network/ Akron Pride Initiative (CANAPI) serves and promotes the wellbeing of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ+) community as well as persons who are at risk or affected by HIV/AIDS. By supporting these communities with the resources they need most—education, quality housing, advocacy, and more—CANAPI helps empower people to live safe, more inclusive, healthy, joyful lives.

Habitat for Humanity of Summit County

Since 1961, Hattie Larlham—an independent nonprofit—has offered medical, residential, recreational, educational, work training, and employment services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. From its humble beginnings in the Larlham family farmhouse, this organization has grown to reach Northeast as well as North Central Ohio. The International Institute of Akron (IIA) has welcomed immigrants and refugees to Akron since 1916, making our community their home and enriching the vitality of our region. The IIA prepares immigrants and refugees for the naturalization process with comprehensive citizenship classes that cover civics, history, and English proficiency. The final 76 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

Courtesy of Regional Food Bank

Habitat for Humanity in Alliance, East Central Ohio (Canton), Medina County, Portage County, and Summit County. This nonprofit, ecumenical organization builds and repairs homes in partnership with qualified families. It is dedicated to making simple, decent, and affordable housing available for low-income families in need. Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank distribution workers

“graduation” is the successful passage of the naturalization interview and the official Oath of Allegiance ceremony. Since 1913, the Jewish Family Service of Akron (JFS) has served the greater Akron and Summit County community— Jewish and non-Jewish alike. JFS enhances the mental, emotional, and social well-being of individuals (and their families) ages 45 and older through counseling, care management, and education consistent with Jewish values. In 2009, in response to the community’s aging population, JFS’s core programs became specialized to meet the unique needs of both seniors and the adults who care for them.

With civic pride and a love for Akron, Keep Akron Beautiful (KAB) is the only organization in our city dedicated to picking up litter, removing graffiti, and planting flowers on public land. As a small nonprofit with a small budget, KAB relies on communityminded neighbors to help keep our city neat, clean, and beautiful. The mission of OPEN M is to provide pathways out of poverty by feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, and strengthening the community. Operating from its facility in Akron’s Summit Lake neighborhood, OPEN M leverages a community alliance of churches, businesses, and more than 2,000 volunteers to assist more than 67,000 individuals each year,

Feed Our Neighbors, Cultivate Hope

offering programs to those in need in the Greater Akron Area and Summit County. Pegasus Farm in Hartville has created a community that holistically supports and empowers people with diverse needs through therapeutic equestrian programs, vocational services, and recreational and social activities. It serves more than 500 individuals annually, with program participants ranging in age from three years to 75 years. Pegasus Farm is dedicated to the idea that equineassisted activities provide exceptional physical and psychological benefits, challenging participants to positively learn and grow in ways they may not experience in day-to-day life. The Portage Foundation is a nonprofit, community corporation that acts as a “bridge” between donors and charitable activities that serve area residents. Their funding priorities focus on identified community needs and include animal welfare, arts and culture, children’s services, economic development, education, environment, health, and human services.

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akroncantonfoodbank.org

The Rotary Club of Akron encourages and fosters the ideals of providing humanitarian service; encouraging high ethical standards in all vocations; and helping to build international understanding, goodwill, and peace in the world. This nonprofit organization of business and professional men and women is united worldwide in its dedication to both local and international service projects. Since 1963, when the Stark Community Foundation was formed, hundreds of thousands of people’s lives have been changed through the power of philanthropy. The foundation is the community’s trusted partner in effective philanthropy. Today, it stewards more than 850 charitable funds, totaling nearly $400 million in assets, and has granted more than $215 million to nonprofits in our community and beyond. Stewart’s Caring Place provides a caring, relaxed environment to those of all ages who are touched by any phase or stage of cancer. It

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(330) 400-1215 Support Groups • Wigs & Prosthetics • Family Programs • Fitness Classes • Holistic Services 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 77

All Medina, Portage, Stark, and Summit County Development Disability Boards provide services to thousands of people with disabilities and their families. Although services vary with each board, all four provide lifespan support to help people with disabilities work, live, and learn as equal citizens. From early interventions with young children to daycare for older adults, the boards oversee coordinated, reliable care. For families, they provide guidance. For employers, they offer solutions to staffing issues. For the entire community, they offer ways to live richer, more inclusive lives. Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities The Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities Summit Developmental Disabilities Board (Summit DD) The vision of the United Disability Services (UDS) is to create a community where each individual can live their most fulfilling life. Their mission is to provide and support inclusive, life-enriching options through personcentered programs and advocacy. For more than 70 years, UDS has served individuals with all types of disabilities—from mild to severe. Its sports program (sanctioned by the Special Olympics) is competitive and integrated. The Taste Buds division is a catering service that offers boxed lunches while providing employment for the disabled.

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Courtesy of Stewart’s Caring Place

is a welcoming space where anyone impacted by cancer—facing a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or grieving a loss—can find comfort and support. Services include family programs, financial and legal guidance, counseling, a food pantry, group fitness and yoga classes, holistic care, and support groups. In 2024, Stewart’s Caring Place merged with Aunt Susie’s Cancer Wellness Center, adding a second Canton location.

Stewart’s Caring Place

United Way fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community. In the Greater Akron-Canton Region, we have three United Way organizations that support all of us. The mission of the United Way of Greater Stark County is to build our community’s capacity to alleviate the impact of poverty and to empower families to unleash their potential. The United Way of Portage County unites people with resources to improve the quality of life of families and individuals in Portage County. Their vision is to ensure that no Portage County resident goes without food, no child is without tools to learn, and no one is without access to care. United Way of Summit & Medina envisions a community where leaders and organizations come together to solve problems, where help is always within easy reach, and where the opportunity to build a better life is available to everyone.

Searching for forever homes Located in Akron’s Merriman Valley, Happy Tails Thrift Shop supports the Humane Society of Summit County (HSSC) while providing the community with a place to shop for affordable home goods and antiques. One-hundred percent of Happy Tails’ proceeds support the rescue and care of animals at the HSSC. The Humane Society of Stark County in Louisville saves more than 3,400 animals each year. All of their attention goes to helping animals—improving their physical and emotional health, finding foster homes, and funding for food, comfort, and vet care—until someone says, “Let’s Go Home.” Founded in 1968, the Humane Society of Summit County (HSSC) has been dedicated to serving animals that are victims of abuse, neglect, and abandonment, as well as sick and injured strays. As long as it is medically and behaviorally healthy, the animal can stay at the HSSC

Courtesy of Summit DD

Summit DD

as long as it takes to be adopted. Centrally located on Portage Trail, the state-of-the-art, 24,000-square-foot facility contains spacious, modern kennels to house 70 dogs and cages to house 65 cats.

One Of A Kind Pet Rescue in Akron is dedicated to rescuing and adopting homeless pets in imminent danger. It offers low-cost spay and neuter procedures, vaccines, microchips, and TNR programs.

Adopt dogs and cats at the Medina County SPCA, located in Seville. Their new Lobby Boutique offers a wide variety of pet clothing and accessories— pajamas, harnesses, leashes, shoes, and holiday wear. Everything is donation-based, and every contribution directly supports the animals in its care and the mission of helping all Medina County animals.

The Portage County Animal Protective League in Ravenna began as a grassroots organization in the 1950s. They actively support efforts to ensure the welfare of all animals, offer adoption and neuter services, and envision an educated and caring community that recognizes and respects the rights of animals to receive humane and compassionate treatment.

Courtesy of Pegasus Farm

No front yard to speak of, just a porch cantilevered on faith —“The House on Bishop Street” from “Thomas and Beulah” by Rita Dove, Akron-born Pulitzer Prize-winner Pegasus Farm

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We're empowering people of all abilities in their home, school, workplace, and the entire Summit County community.

2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 79

kron’s oldest and most historic neighborhood is on an upswing. Middlebury was its own community until it officially merged with the City of Akron in 1872. Less than three decades later, when brothers F.A. and C.W. Seiberling founded the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in 1898, the neighborhood thrived like never before. Its location near East Market Street and the Lower Cuyahoga River made it easy for Goodyear employees to get to work. Jobs were plentiful, and there was a promise of a bright future for everyone. neighborhoods. He learned that Middlebury— which has about 2,600 homes and Akron’s largest number of pre-1940s homes—is a community where 91% of the residents live below the poverty line, and 77% of the existing homes are owned by nonresidents. Aware that housing is a vital community building block, Zac decided to invest his energy into helping Middlebury return to a place of health, stability, and opportunity.

But change is afoot in Middlebury. The neighborhood—bordered today by The University of Akron, The East End project, and Summa Hospital—is attracting more and more attention, with stakeholders and key community financial supporters contributing to its renaissance through revitalized housing, improved quality of life, and new jobs.

Over the next four years, he located nonresident property owners and purchased seven vacant homes, tearing down one and renovating the rest. But his vision extended beyond buying and fixing up houses—he wanted to help people transition into owner-occupied homes, leading him to found the nonprofit The Well Community Development Corporation (CDC) in 2016.

Among those stakeholders are Zac Kohl and Barry Dunaway. Zac and Barry were born and raised in Akron, and they both graduated from The University of Akron before launching successful careers. After graduating, Zac was a pastor for almost seven years. About 15 years ago, he and his wife Beth moved to Middlebury, where they had strong community ties and were determined not to be people who enjoy a place’s resources while living elsewhere. They found a house where they could raise their three sons, tracked down its California-based owner, struck a deal, and spent six months on a full-gut renovation before moving in. That process gave Zac fresh insight into housing challenges in underinvested 80 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

The primary focus of The Well is to restore housing, strengthen the local economy, and support a strong sense of place. Through the CDC, Zac purchased and repurposed a 100-year-old Middlebury church as The Well’s headquarters. Over the last decade, he and his small staff have purchased and renovated more than 100 homes and over 80,000 square feet of commercial real estate, and they launched a Tool Library with more than 500 tools for local

Courtesy of Welty Enterprises

Rubber Worker Statue

Over time, things changed, and Akron’s business and residential focus shifted away from Middlebury. The area became a “pass-through” rather than a “go-to.” Fewer local people owned their homes, many property owners lived elsewhere, opportunities dwindled, and the neighborhood declined.

The Bowery Project

With historic state and federal tax credits for the renovation, a gift from The John S. Knight Foundation, and other private investments, The Well CDC acquired the building from the Summit County Land Bank.

Bruce Ford

Barry then reached out to Philadelphia-based architect Ed Heimer, who has designed more than 100 food halls nationwide, and asked him to assess the space and offer guidance. In partnership with Peninsula Architects and Prospectus, they quickly developed plans for six food vendors and two bars on the first floor with outdoor dining, a second-floor entertainment space with another bar and food vendor, and event space on the third floor.

Zac Kohl and Barry Dunaway

home improvements. The organization also teaches financial literacy— opening and managing checking and savings accounts—alongside career development classes, mental health workshops, and free childcare and transportation for adult learners. These services are investments in workforce readiness and entrepreneurship, helping people prepare for jobs and build an economy from the inside out. This holistic approach reflects The Well’s commitment to offering a hand up, not a handout, and has helped build and strengthen community pride. While Zac followed this particular path, Barry’s evolved in a different way. Barry’s Akron roots stretch back to his great-grandparents, who came here to build tires. After college, he worked for 32 years at The J.M. Smucker Company in Orrville, with his career taking him across the U.S. and abroad. After retiring, he led Leadership Akron for a few years while completing his master’s degree in food business at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), where he

developed his vision for a food hall offering local, artisanal food in a welcoming communal space. Beyond serving great food, Barry envisioned a physical space grounded in world-class design— one that would be convenient, safe, and inviting, and that would offer programming designed to generate interest and encourage repeat visits. He and Zac—who met through Leadership Akron—began discussing how their interests intersected. After many conversations, they decided to explore converting the historic Homeier-University Building—Akron’s oldest Ford dealership in the 1920s—into a food hall. Though this 30,000-square-foot, three-story building at 816 East Market Street had sat empty for years, its location on Middlebury’s busiest east/west corridor, near the Rubber City Connector Trail, was ideal, and converting it would also dovetail with the neighborhood’s plan to repurpose historic buildings instead of demolishing them. They decided to go for it.

They also envisioned programming to meet the needs of visitors at different times of the day. Art shows, poetry readings, and live music will be part of the vibe—an arcade and golf simulators for young kids and families during the day, and a shift to college students and older adults in the evening. Wedding receptions and family reunions will be possible on the third floor. “Factory 816”—named for its East Market Street address and as a nod to Akron’s industrial heritage—will be a place where people come together in a part of the city long overlooked but now very much in the spotlight. All of this work is not an attempt to “save” Middlebury. Rather, it’s an effort to create jobs and new sources of revenue by encouraging people to travel “to, not through” this part of town—to enjoy its history, meet friends, and have a bite to eat. By balancing moral and market imperatives, Middlebury has become a place that inspires hope and opportunity. Construction of Factory 816 began in summer 2026, with an autumn 2027 opening planned. Learn more about The Well CDC and Factory 816 at thewellakron.com. 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 81

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Courtesy of Welty Enterprises

The Bowery Project

n 2025, Welty Enterprises celebrated its 80th year in business. This remarkable achievement speaks to the company’s commitment to an “OPTIC” framework of core values—Openness , Passion, Teamwork, Integrity, and Customer-Centricity—but the community-oriented focus that has been a Welty hallmark since it was founded has also made a profound impact across the decades. It was longtime Cuyahoga Falls resident and former high school industrial arts teacher Henry D. Welty who founded the company. His vision was to build high-quality homes, and it did not take long before his superb craftsmanship and innovative design work made Welty a first choice for countless homeowners. From the beginning, Henry valued and prioritized the lasting relationships he forged with employees and clients alike. Two decades later, his son, Jerry, joined Henry in leading the company. Jerry took the helm when Henry retired, retaining his father’s focus on community while also transitioning the company from residential building to tackling larger commercial projects. That’s when Welty began to play a role in shaping our region’s skylines. That focus on higher-profile buildings extended from the mid-1960s until the mid-1990s, when Jerry brought Don Taylor on board, and another evolution began. Don became president and—with Jerry remaining involved as board chair—purchased the company. Under Don’s leadership, Welty expanded by opening a Cleveland office in 2011 and a Columbus office in 2013. But even more was on the horizon for Welty. Since meeting the needs of people and cities had always been a priority, Welty’s leadership team looked at thoughtful expansions as a way to deepen their commitment. They launched Welty Energy & Infrastructure, becoming (among other things) experts in the electrical renewable tunnel and wastewater industries. They formed the Welty Think Tank to address facility growth challenges and Welty Development to focus on multifamily, corporate, and healthcare areas. In short, Welty found innovative ways to address modern-day challenges while also retaining the relationships that had always been key to their success. On a more granular level, in 2025, Welty purchased Akron’s historic CitiCenter Building with plans to renovate it into a 116-unit residential community. This strategic step directly supports the Downtown Akron Partnership’s Vision and Redevelopment Plan’s goal of adding 1,200 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 83

residential units to increase the downtown population, as well as the city’s goal of revitalizing downtown and attracting businesses, jobs, and residents.

Courtesy of Welty Enterprises

In Canton, Welty Building Construction is restarting construction on the Hall of Fame Village’s Phase II projects, focusing on the “Gameday Bay” indoor waterpark, with a projected opening of spring 2027. Clearly, Welty Enterprises has made—and continues to make—a The Bowery Apartments big difference in Northeast Ohio. As they celebrate more than 80 years in business, we pay tribute to their tradition of excellence—to the individuals, partners, and clients who have been part of the journey—and to the many ways in which this company has given back to our communities through sponsorships, volunteering, support for other local businesses, and community investments. When it comes to the shape the Welty story takes in the future, the sky’s the limit.

Welty Enterprises serves as the umbrella organization for the Welty family of brands: Welty Construction—Comprehensive construction services for new builds, upgrades, and retrofit projects help prolong the life of buildings and equipment, reduce operating costs, and improve overall efficiency Welty Development—Commercial real estate development services Welty Energy & Infrastructure—A full-service professional consulting company specializing in the power delivery industry Welty Generation Solutions—Providing strategic navigation of emerging generation technologies, missioncritical infrastructure, and evolving power demands

• • • •

•

Building Our Community.

•

Investing in You.

inSITE Advisory Group—Helping to manage site selection, funding, political relationships, negotiations, and incentives in the private and public sectors

Removing barriers to education and training that lead to meaningful careers, strong families, and a thriving local economy.

environments 4 business (e4b)—A full-service office furnishings dealer providing interior and outdoor space planning, project management, delivery, and installation In Akron and Canton, you probably see Welty projects without even knowing it, including: Akron Art Museum

Learn.

Akron History Center

• •

Lead.

Akron Children’s Hospital—Considine Professional Building

Heart to Heart Leadership’s Purposeful Leadership Program.

• •

College degrees, professional certifications, and workforce training.

Grow.

SCAN CODE

CDA, associate, and bachelor’s degrees for early childhood educators.

•

• Find Out More.

• • • • •

Available to individuals who live or work in Barberton.

Bounce Innovation Hub Bowery Apartments City of Green Central Park Courtyard by Marriott at Northside Pro Football Hall of Fame Village—Center for Performance Stark State College Akron Campus Summa Health Professional Center South and North The University of Akron Auburn Science and Engineering Center West Tower United Way of Summit County

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rch sy of LT A Resea Courte

30 for the Future Awards—Each year since 2007, Akron’s Chamber of Commerce has celebrated professionals aged 25-39 who demonstrate exceptional leadership and have the energy, vision, and commitment needed to carry Greater Akron into the future.

Courte Hub ce Inno vation of Boun

The mission of the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce is to drive economic growth and prosperity for Greater Akron by supporting the success of the business community and by acting as a convener of stakeholders on key issues facing the region.

The Goodyear Blimp

Courte sy

The Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce is the leading voice for business in Stark County and beyond. They connect people, ideas, and resources to strengthen businesses, grow the regional economy, and build a vibrant community. Among the many programs offered by the Chamber are yStark (propelling young professionals [YPs] toward success while growing a network of YPs who choose to work, play, and stay in Stark) and the Twenty Under 40! (recognizing outstanding young leaders for their commitment to the community, leadership attributes, professional achievements, personal accomplishments, and volunteerism).

sy of G

The mission of the Black Chamber of Commerce Summit County is to develop, empower, promote, and support Black-owned businesses by providing resources and a unified voice that advocates for the interests of those businesses. They provide education and training, access to resources, networking opportunities, and impact measurements, and are committed to fostering sustainable growth and inspiring similar efforts nationwide.

Baby Airship Test oodyear

inding an organization that supports your professional goals and ambitions is a smart move. The Greater Akron-Canton area has a variety of organizations where you can network, find mentors (or serve as a mentor), give back to the community where you live and work, and help tackle challenges while celebrating our region.

Bounce Innovation Hub 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 85

The Greater Akron Chamber’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) provides its members with opportunities to build relationships with local community, business, and government leaders, while giving a voice to Akron-area young professionals. Since it was founded in 1984, Leadership Akron has created a stronger Greater Akron by unlocking the potential of our leaders. It offers several programs. Diversity on Board (created with the United Way of Summit and Medina counties) advances racial and ethnic minority representation on nonprofit and public boards. Insight Akron is a one-day program that gives leaders who are new to the area a running start in the community. The 10-month

Courtesy of Welty Enterprises

The Women’s Network Leadership Institute (WNLI), a program of the Greater Akron Chamber, is designed to drive development, connectivity, and visibility among female leaders, owners, and professionals.

Hall of Fame Village Gameday Bay Waterpark

Signature program focuses on mid-career leaders. Leadership on Main is a monthly conversation with Akron’s prominent changemakers. The Leadership Akron Alumni Association is a hub for leaders to connect and collaborate. Leadership Akron NEXT is a two-month program designed for community-driven individuals approaching, experiencing, or mastering retirement. Leadership Portage County identifies and develops Portage County leaders to enhance the county’s economic, business, governmental, educational,

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cultural, social, and civic development. Its mission is to provide unique insights into Portage County; explore and develop a range of leadership styles, theories, and examples; create opportunities to build relationships and networks; and catalyze volunteerism and positive change throughout the county. Leadership Stark County engages and educates Stark County’s community leaders through a range of programs specifically designed to meet business and community needs. It also works with community

organizations to identify, prepare, and position persons for leadership within these organizations. Programs—which represent the professional, cultural, racial, economic, geographic and ethnic diversity of the community—include the Signature program; Next Level Leaders (mentoring, mastermind sessions, and executive breakfast conversations); Spotlight for Young Professionals (open to young professionals who are ready to take their careers to the next level); and Youth Leadership Academy (youth leadership development from sophomore through senior years in high school). Stark County Minority Business Association (SCMBA) fosters the development and growth of minority-, women-, and veteranowned businesses by providing resources that include technical and professional assistance, access to capital, and connections to business opportunities. Programs include ERA (Expanding Resources for All) (in which 25 businesses are selected to learn business fundamentals), YEP (a free entrepreneurship program for middle school students in under-resourced communities), and Lunch & Learn (in which speakers are invited to share their experiences). Torchbearers Akron was founded in 2003 to foster collaboration and strengthen the connection between Akron-area non-profits and emerging leaders. As a bridge between established community leaders and rising leaders of the future, Torchbearers strives to connect and retain service-minded individuals committed to making Akron a better place to live and work. The Young Black Professionals Coalition (YBPC) is a nonprofit organization that focuses on the professional and social development of future leaders, including high school and college students. Through workshops, social activities, and continuing education, YBPC aims to develop the whole person and the pursuit of one’s passion.

SCMBA’s Marketplace on 10th Street Opens for Business

arketplace on 10th Street, located in the Canton Arts District, was recently launched by the Stark County Minority Business Association (SCMBA) to expand SCMBA’s reach beyond its main office at the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce. As Ashley Gantz, Ph.D. (Director of Business Development and Growth) says, the Marketplace hub creates new opportunities for minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses and entrepreneurs to access personalized professional services that help their businesses thrive. When the Marketplace idea was first introduced, the community enthusiastically embraced it. Support came from diverse public and private avenues, including Steve Coon of Coon Restoration, and city, state, and key elected officials, such as the late Senator Kirk Schuring, Ohio Senator Jane Timken, and State Representative Jim Thomas, also gave their support. Those stakeholders recognized that, since 2008, the SCMBA had been an excellent economic driver, providing significant value to minority-owned businesses across its service area of Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas, and Carroll counties. As the Akron region’s Tier 1 Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) network, as designated by the State of Ohio’s Department of Development, the project was a bold yet essential next step. Now that the idea has become a reality, it has already proven to be a success. Known as the Kirk Schuring Business Development Project, this initiative combines two independent spaces that work together to foster sustainable innovation and business growth: the Innovation Hub, offering private offices and a co-working option in the heart

of downtown Canton, and the Business Development Center and Marketplace on 10th Street. The Center and Marketplace provide resources such as the CLIMB Program (Capital to Launch Individual Micro-Enterprise Businesses), training, workshops, and one-on-one business support, retail space, and more. Housed in a building that originally served as a fire station and was renovated by historic restoration specialists at Coon Restoration, the Business Development Center and Marketplace is dedicated to empowering business owners through education, collaboration, and access to vital resources. The Marketplace’s first floor has retail space for 18 small businesses and several artists display and sell their merchandise—such as natural body and hair care products, clothing, desserts, beverages, books, and artwork. As an example of the training opportunities SCMBA provides, Ms. Elise Watkins (Marketing and Communications Coordinator) says 13 of the 18 retail vendors in the Marketplace participated in their CLIMB’s 13-week intensive business training program. Their success reflects the kinds of outcomes people have experienced through SCMBA. Having launched Marketplace, the next step is equally exciting. “We want to take this concept of business education and business incubators, replicate it, and expand it across our service area and beyond,” says Dr. Gantz. With their mission of “Building the Future of Small Business,” their dedication to supporting the community, and their deep connections within the community, it seems only a matter of time before they reach that goal. 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 87

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Courtesy of Akron-Canton Airport

Akron-Canton Airport

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CLE Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport in Cleveland—approximately 35 miles northwest of Akron—is Ohio’s busiest airport, serving more than 10 million passengers annually. It offers 115 daily nonstop departures to 40 destinations and all the amenities you’d expect from a major international airport.

Public Transit The Akron-Canton public transit system is primarily a network of buses that provides access to key areas downtown and to and from nearby neighborhoods. Catching a

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The Akron METRO Regional Transit Authority (METRO RTA) serves Akron and Summit County with a fleet of more than 200 vehicles—its main transit station is the Robert K. Pfaff Transit Center on Broadway in downtown Akron. The METRO RTA transports passengers to and from school, work, grocery stores, malls, and jobs. METRO Direct is the traditional bus service with set schedules and designated bus stops; all fixed-route buses are equipped with bicycle racks. METRO Select includes a variety of on-demand services, including METRO SCAT, which serves Mural at the Akron-Canton Airport older adults and people with disabilities; METRO Call-ABus, for riders traveling within specific areas; and METRO Works, a partnership program between METRO and employers in the region. METRO ADA offers special service to people with qualifying disabilities. RTA

CAK The Akron-Canton Airport in North Canton takes pride in offering a relaxing customer experience in a bright, clean terminal that was expanded and renovated in recent years. It offers affordable fares with two dozen nonstop flights, more than 99 international connections, ample parking (including a covered lot), and traveler amenities such as free Wi-Fi, dining, and a business center. Plus, it’s only eight miles from downtown Akron and 10 miles from downtown Canton.

METRO RTA, SARTA, or Greyhound Bus is a practical and environmentally friendly travel option for anyone without a car (or everyone who doesn’t want to drive, park, and dodge orange construction cones or potholes). The systems include fixed routes and schedules, which are helpful for planning trips. If you love a train, Amtrak has whistle stops in Cleveland and Alliance, just 20 minutes southeast of Canton.

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Beyond the “Big Two”—CAK and CLE—in the Greater Akron-Canton region, general aviation facilities in Summit, Stark, Medina, and Portage counties serve private and corporate aircraft with crucial regional access. Key facilities include Portage County Regional (POV) in Ravenna, Akron Executive Airport (AKR) (formerly the Fulton Airport), Medina Municipal (1G5), Kent State University Airport (1G3), and various smaller public/private fields.

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t’s not always practical to walk or bike to a destination. But no worries! Whether you’re on a jaunt or a journey—across town or across the country—Akron-Canton has travel options that make it easier to get where you’re going. For those who drive, three routes are especially helpful to keep in mind for easier navigation: Route 8, Route 76, and Route 77. Happy trails!

The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) has 24 fixed routes in Alliance, Akron, Canton, Jackson Township, Louisville, Massillon, and North Canton that provide

Eco-friendly SARTA Bus 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 89

Courtesy of METRO RTA

Akron METRO Regional Transit Center

approximately 5,000 work rides every day. SARTA serves Stark County with transportation to grocery stores, shopping centers, medical facilities, restaurants, schools, the airport, libraries, and museums. For riders with ADA-recognized disabilities, SARTA offers Proline and Proline Plus, which pick riders up at their point of origin and take them to their desired destinations. SARTA is also continuing the transition toward a greener, hydrogen-supported, low-emission fleet while upgrading facilities with energy-efficient and renewable technologies. Greyhound bus lines operate out of the same main transit center in Akron as METRO RTA. For more than a century, Greyhound has been a trusted name in North American long-distance travel. Today, the company focuses on making travel more affordable and sustainable while keeping communities connected. Want to know what’s going on in your corner of Akron-Canton? Looking for local election results? Eager to take your family—or yourself—to special events around town? Interested in local meetings, new eateries, or road repairs and closings? Want book recommendations or reviews? You can find many of the things you want and need to know by listening to, watching, or accessing local and regional media outlets. Here are a few to get you started.

Radio and TV 91.3 WAPS “The Summit” is an award-winning adult alternative radio station whose long, rich history also includes initiatives that support Greater Akron. One such initiative is Summit Next—made possible 90 / 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON

through Ohio Arts Council funding— which partners with Akron Public and Struthers City schools to give middle and high school students hands-on experience in radio broadcasting and media production. The Summit’s Music & Wellness Program harnesses music as a tool for restoration and everyday well-being. You can also stream homegrown music 24/7 at the330.net, powered by The Summit. It’s no wonder that The Summit has such an enthusiastic following.

Other notable local radio stations

89.7 FM WKSU Ideastream is a non-commercial, educational public radio station licensed to Kent State University and operated by Ideastream Public Media. WKSU’s primary signal serves the Akron metro area, with a reach that extends into Canton and surrounding areas. It is an affiliate of National Public Radio (NPR), American Public Media, Public Radio Exchange, and the BBC World Service. Beyond standard analog transmission, WKSU broadcasts across four HD Radio channels and is simulcast on WCLV’s third HD channel and WVIZ’s 25.7 audio-only subchannel.

Newspapers (online and in print)

PBS Western Reserve Public Media consists of two separately licensed public television stations (WNEO and WEAO) and an Educational Services division. WEAO is licensed to the city of Akron and serves the Cleveland-Akron-Canton designated market area. PBS Western Reserve’s mission is to teach, illuminate, and inspire through television. It presents consistently outstanding programming spanning cultural and artistic offerings; local, state, and national public affairs; and lifelong learning opportunities through both formal instruction and general educational programming.

WAKR 93.5 FM / 1590 AM— “Soft Hits” WHBC 1480—“News-Talk” WHOF 101.7—“Canton’s 70s and 80s Hits” WNIR 100 FM—“The Talk of Akron” WQMX FM 94.9—“Your Country” WRQK 106.9—“Canton’s Rock Station” WZIP-FM 88.1—“Akron’s #1 For Nonstop Hits”

Many communities publish their own local newspapers—in print and online. For up-to-the-minute news, sports, entertainment, and weather, these are some of the media outlets you may want to access. Akron.com—Home of the West Side Leader and South Side News Leader Newspapers Akron Beacon Journal—Includes the Hudson Hub Times as part of its ABJ network Canton Repository—Local news, politics, entertainment, and sports in Canton Kenmore Connection—Published quarterly by the Kenmore Chamber of Commerce Record Courier—The latest breaking news, sports, entertainment, and obituaries from Kent and Ravenna Signal Akron—Local news for Akron by Akronites The Independent—The latest breaking news, sports, and entertainment in Massillon The Portager—Local newspaper for Portage County The Summiteer—Local news for eastern Summit County

e’re the Goldilocks of regions—big enough, with more than one million people, to offer first-class culture, dining, and opportunity, but small enough to skip the traffic jams and long commutes. There are so many fantastic places to live in AkronCanton that we can’t list them all. But we’ll give you a range of possibilities. The numbers are based on information from the 2020 U.S. Census and area realtors.

Carrollton—The Village of Carrollton is the county seat and is located about 25 miles southeast of Canton. It’s a great place for those who want a rural feel. Population: 3,087 Average Home Value: $181,052 Must Go: Each fall, the Algonquin Mill Festival offers crafts, food vendors, and tours of the mill complex.

Hilly, rural Carroll County is located in the foothills of the Appalachians. There are no big cities here, but you’ll find plenty of lovely lakes and beautiful vistas.

Minerva—Part of three counties (Stark, Columbiana, and Carroll), this historic village along the Lincoln Highway (S.R. 30) has plenty of charm. Population: 3,684 Average Home Value: $188,157 Go Here: Sandy Springs Brewing Co. is a stunning place with lovely overnight accommodations.

One of the fastest-growing and wealthiest counties in Ohio, Medina is situated between Akron and Cleveland. There are three small cities scattered among 18 rural townships. 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 91

Medina’s Gazebo

Brunswick—The largest and northernmost city in Medina County, the city attracts people who work in Akron and Cleveland. Population: 35,246 Average Home Value: $317,626 Fun Fact: Brunswick got its name through a community contest held in 1815. Hinckley Township—The spectacular Hinckley Reservation sits at the southern end of the Cleveland Metroparks. Be sure to visit Whipp’s Ledges. Population: 8,103 Average Home Value: $502,911 Don’t Miss: Every spring, people gather for the Return of the Buzzards (turkey vultures) that roost in Hinckley’s ledges. It’s a huge party with hikes, skits, contests, crafts, costumes—and buzzards! Medina—Home to a storybook downtown, the city works hard to maintain its small-town charm.

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Population: 25,950 Average Home Value: $378,804 Check Out: The shops and restaurants on Medina Square. Sharon Township—Once wide-open farmland, Sharon Township has some of the area’s most magnificent homes. Population: 6,027 Average Home Value: $550,000 Enjoy: The recently refurbished Sharon Center Circle features a new gazebo, expanded parking spaces, new landscaping, and concerts. Wadsworth—Founded in 1814, this rapidly growing city is named after General Elijah Wadsworth, a veteran of the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Population: 24,492 Average Home Value: $317,288 Go To: Each June, the five-day Blue Tip Festival begins with a parade and the lighting of a 20-foot blue tip match that lights up downtown during the entire festival.

Making up the eastern part of the Akron-Canton region, this county is a varied mix of college towns, working farms, small cities, and a medical school—all traversed by two eastwest interstates. Aurora—This affluent area is in both Akron’s and Cleveland’s orbit. Population: 17,581 Average Home Value: $431,237 Something to ponder: Some say the village is named after Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn.

Kent—The city is home to the main campus of Kent State University and has a thriving music scene and plenty of fun and quirky downtown shops. Population: 27,116 Average Home Value: $243,706 Insider Info: Kent is home to the Davey Tree Expert Co., thus the nickname “Tree City.” Ravenna—Carved out of Ravenna Township in the Connecticut Western Reserve, Ravenna was founded in 1799 and named after the city of Ravenna, Italy. Population: 11,274 Average Home Value: $217,045 Go To: Towner’s Woods Park is a beautiful 242-acre haven with scenic hiking trails that become perfect spots for winter cross-country skiing or sledding.

its numerous railroad lines, Canton later diversified to include retail, education, finance, and healthcare. Population: 69,209

Known as “America’s Playing Field,” Stark County residents are huge sports fans. Its primary cities are Alliance, Canton, Louisville, and Massillon, but it also has many rural areas and thriving suburbs. Canton—founded in 1805 alongside Nimishillen Creek—is the eighth-most populous city in Ohio. Originally a center of heavy industry because of

Ridgewood/Historic Ridgewood— With its brick-lined streets, 1920s homes, and old-fashioned lampposts, this neighborhood is the definition of gracious. Population: 3,013 Average Home Value: $141,912 (Ridgewood); Median $305,000 (Historic Ridgewood) Walking Distance: The Ridgewood District is within walking distance of Malone University and Weis Park. Avondale—An upscale neighborhood with lovely homes and plenty of green space. Population: 1,641 Average Home Value: $265,500 Back to Nature: Take a stroll through the Avondale Arboretum or Arboretum-Spiker Park.

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Market Heights—Located off Market Avenue between 30th Street NW and 37th Street NW, this neighborhood dates back to 1813, when the first deed on record was filed. Population: 2,555 Average Home Value: $216,442 Notable: The Market Heights Neighborhood Association hosts several social events each year.

Massillon—Once a booming canal town, Massillon offers a great mix of history, outdoor fun, and small-town charm. Population: 32,338 Average Home Value: $216,229 Join in: The Massillon Tigers vs. Canton McKinley Bulldogs football rivalry—dating back to 1894—is fierce. More than 20,000 fans show up after a morning of tailgating, and the Tiger Swing and Bulldog Marching bands put on a performance of their own.

Market Heights

Courtesy of Welty Enterprises

Jackson Township—This is one of Stark County’s 17 townships and is located between Canton and Akron. It became part of the United States Territory in 1785, with the Tuscarawas River serving as the western boundary of the U.S. Population: 43,306 Average Home Value: $304,000 Don’t Miss: Shopping at Belden Village Mall

Cascade Lofts

North Canton—With its ideal location (in the heart of Stark County) and blend of history, recreation, culture, and family-friendly fun, North Canton appeals to people of all ages. Population: 17,727 Average Home Value: $287,878 Check Out: Lake Cable—a scenic, 150-acre lakefront community. Hartville—Although Hartville is growing, it still maintains its rural vibe— and is home to one of the largest flea markets in the country. Population: 3,377 Average Home Value: $295,345 Yum: The Hartville Chocolate Factory

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City of Green Central Park

Courtesy of Barberton Community Foundation

Population: 24,844 Average Home Value: $155,726 Come for the: Barberton Chicken! Cuyahoga Falls—The Falls, as it’s called, is nestled along the Cuyahoga River. Its revitalized downtown features charming shops, restaurants, and coffee shops, all reflecting a local-business-friendly approach that welcomes everyone. Population: 50,909 Average Home Value: $217,369 Check Out: The downtown summer splash pad and wintertime iceskating rink. Ellet—This community has blue-collar roots but, in recent years, has attracted young families and professionals as a place to call home. Ellet is Akron’s largest neighborhood. Population: 18,900 Average Home Value: $159,772 Yum: Strickland’s Frozen Custard on Triplett Boulevard

Barberton Mum Festival

Fairlawn—Most of the houses here were built in the 1920s to 1930s, with additional constructions in the late 1940s and mid-1960s. The community’s graceful, attractive architecture sets it apart from other neighborhoods, blending Tudor and Georgian revivals with French Norman and Chateaux styles, along with large country ranches. Population: 7,711 Average Home Value: $313,623 Historic Detail: Many of the homes in Fairlawn Heights were built by Roy Firestone, one of Akron’s bestknown architects and native son.

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Cuyahoga Falls

Between Cleveland and Canton, Summit County encompasses city, suburban, and rural communities alike.

Courtesy of Main St. Kent

Firestone Park

Kayaking under Haymarket Bridge

Akron—Summit County’s county seat sits along the Little Cuyahoga River about 40 miles south of Cleveland, making it Ohio’s fifth-most populous city. The Akron metropolitan area has an estimated 702,000 residents. Population: 189,669 Barberton—Known as the “Magic City,” Barberton supports the arts with a wonderful children’s theater and White Rabbit Galleries, where local artists create, display, and sell their artwork.

Firestone Park—Just south of downtown Akron and east of Kenmore, Firestone Park is a walkable neighborhood with intentionally mixed housing styles to accommodate a range of income levels. Population: 13,607 Average Home Value: $135,426 Insider Info: Rubber pioneer Harvey Firestone designed this community in 1915 for employees of his tire company. Goodyear Heights—This large residential community—developed in 1912 for factory workers of the rubber giant—is home to Goodyear Heights Metro Park, a popular hiking destination. 2027 EXPERIENCE AKRON-CANTON / 95

Bruce Ford

Goodyear Heights

Population: 19,564 Average Home Value: $128,165 Fun Fact: Goodyear Heights has a huge reservoir—holding 20 million gallons of water in its underground chamber—that still serves Akron. Green—Located between Canton and Akron and near Portage Lakes, Green includes Singer Lake Bog and the 26-acre Boettler Park, a popular recreational area with trails and a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, picnicking, and biking. Population: 27,393 Average Home Value: $215,274 (Average Stark County; Green median value $275,000) Notable: The Akron-Canton Regional Airport is located in Green and Jackson Township. Highland Square—Known as one of Akron’s more eclectic areas, the area offers an organic grocery store, a theater, a library, several restaurants, a great coffee shop, and more. It’s pleasant and walkable. Population: 11,043 Average Home Value: $162,103 Hangout: The Mustard Seed Market & Cafe combines its grocery store, restaurant, live music venue, and local art gallery into one cool venue.

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City of Green Music Festival

Hudson—Located between Akron and Cleveland, Hudson has the feel of a New England town and has preserved its history as a settlement of the Western Reserve. Population: 23,039 Average Home Value: $549,417 Happy Distraction: The Learned Owl on Main Street is a booklover’s bookstore. Merriman Road/Merriman Hills—On the north end, stately homes built mainly in the 1920s for tire executives still grace this elegant neighborhood. On the south end, smaller and older homes carry their own quiet charm. Average Home Value (north): Ranging between $450,000 and $1,600,000 (median $538,000) Average Home Value (south): Ranging between $250,000 and $450,000 Insider Info: Portage Path was briefly the western boundary of the United States.

Sherbondy Hill—Once called Lane Wooster, the neighborhood was renamed for one of Akron’s founding families. The area is experiencing revitalization with both historic and new construction underway. Population: 9,329 Average Home Value: $110,000 (with new construction listing at $220,000) Insider Info: Sherbondy Hill Cemetery dates to 1907. Twinsburg—Halfway between Akron and Cleveland, Twinsburg strikes a balance between a strong industrial base and a suburban vibe. Population: 19,410 Average Home Value: $355,432 Fun Fact: Twins Moses and Aaron Wilcox founded this town in 1818. It is now home to the annual Twins Days Festival.

We would pause at the broad bend of the Cuyahoga, where river abandons its plunge to the Great Lake, maybe saying rest, reconsider. —“Skipping Stones at the Oxbow” from “Imagine a Town” by Barbara Sabol, Akronite and Ohio Poet of the Year

Art

INSPIRES Explore & Discover Exciting

2026 - 27 EXHIBI EXHIBITIONS TIONS & EVENTS Good Times Celebrating the Art of Sports, Music & Black Culture The The Artistic Artistic journey journey of of Ernie Ernie barnes barnes

Aug 18 - Nov 1, 2026

Former NFL player Ernie Barnes (1938–2009) created some of the 20th century’s most iconic images of African American life. Best known for his dance scene painting, The Sugar Shack, featured on the 1970s hit sitcom, Good Times, this new, original exhibit offers a survey of his inspiring paintings across sports, music, and Black culture ... emphasizing joy, resilience, and achievement!

In partnership with ... The Ernie Barnes Family Trust

Images (clockwise left to right): The artist at work in his studio. Photograph © Ernie Barnes Family Trust. The Sugar Shack, 1976. Ernie Barnes (American: 1938-2009). Acrylic on canvas, 36 x 48 in. On loan from the Collection of William O. Perkins, III and Lara Perkins. All artworks © ERNIE BARNES. Exhibition artworks courtesy of the Ernie Barnes Estate; Private Collections; Ortuzar, New York; and Andrew Kreps Gallery, New York.

Nov 24, 2026 - Mar 7, 2027 Good and Plenty: The Expressive World of Paul Spina explores the renowned artist’s illusion, activism, and vibrant color palettes. Also on View ... Outside the Lines — Abstract Art from the Collection Curious Beasts: A Ceramic Tale by Jennifer Rosseter What Holds: Fiber Art by Melissa English Campbell Balloons, 1973. Alexander Calder. CMA Collection.

Apr 27 - Oct 31, 2027 A Premier Juried Fine Arts & Fine Crafts Show Join thousands of holiday shoppers from around the region to explore fine artisan selections including Metalworks, Wood, Jewelry, Holiday & Home Decor, Fiber & Wearables, Ceramics, Glass, and so much more! Food, drink, entertainment, and themed basket raffles create a perfect holiday experience.

Plan Your Visit at CantonArt.org 1001 Market Avenue North, Canton, OH, 44702

Close to Home: Animals of North America showcases creatures big and small in this new, juried exhibition from the Society of Animal Artists. Also on View ... Animal Visions: Judith Brandon From the CMA Collection — Fantastical Creatures Fragile Balance — A Study in Copper: John Nativio

Big Blue. Kim Diment. Acrylic on board. (detail)

Support for CMA exhibition, education, marketing, and operating programs provided in part by . . .

The Anthony J. and Susan E. Paparella Family Foundation

Your first stop, long before their first step.

If you have children – or one might be on the way – there’s only one health system 100% focused on kids. Trust Akron Children’s for comprehensive, coordinated care close to home. Visit akronchildrens.org/MotherAndBaby to learn more, or scan the code below.