JULY 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #7 • THEDEVILSTRIP.COM 10 Highland Square Porches (and yards) will be Rokn 17 Who was Mr. East Akron? 22 Why people are doing yoga outside the Akron Art Museum

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AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 • THEDEVILSTRIP.COM

SPECIAL SECTION: PORCH ROKR 19 10 What’s happening and where at PorchRokr 2016 12 Six PorchRokr bands we think you should know 15 Is Akron the poetry capital of 12 E. Exchange Street 2nd Floor the Midwest? Akron, Ohio 44308 10

Publisher: THE ARTS Chris “no carny-handed mango man” Horne Email: [email protected] 18 Intuition plus rusty junk equals Phone: 330-555-GHOSTBUSTERS Akron Tree Project Art Director: Alesa “doesn’t sleep” Upholzer 19 A look inside Kirk Olmstead’s studio Managing Editor: M. Sophie “Has Many Names, Wears Many Hats” Hamad Email: [email protected] 20 Art Bomb Brigade coming to a wall near you Visuals Editor: Svetla “The Balkan Comrade” Morrison

Director of Sales & Distribution: 3528 TJ "is in fact a Newsie, hat and all" Masterson Email: [email protected] CULTURE CLUB 26 91.3 The Summit: How does 43 The Editorial Team local radio compete? THE ARTS Lead Editor ...... Bronlynn “Space Kitty” Thurman 28 BMe leader uses $10,000 award to Asst. Editor ...... Megan “Oxford comma slayer” Combs fund The W.O.M.B. Literary Arts Editor ...... Noor "Nervous Poodle Poet" Hindi 31 30 The Trouble with Old People COMMUNITY & CULTURE Lead Editor ...... Katie “Miss Jackson if You’re Nasty” Jackson Asst. Editor ...... Ilenia “Our Short, Tired Garbanzo Bean Eatin', WTF Video Girl Writer” Pezzaniti FOOD & DRINK FOOD & DRINK table of contents Editor ...... Lia “Just One More Slice” Pietrolungo 31 Did you even know that Angel Falls has a kitchen? MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT 18 Music ...... Brittany “Sass Master Flash” Nader 33 Butter Your Nuts moves to Akron Music ...... Clay “Needs a Whimsical Middle Name” Chabola Entertainment ...... Andrew “Has a Mighty Fine Beard” Leask 35 A double dose of The Wanderer 42 Sta Writers, Columnists & The A/V Club: Kristina “Urban Explorer” Aiad-Toss; Emily “Lady Beer Drinker” Anderson; Melanie “newbie for now” Anderson; Rick “Small Business Chronicler” Bohan; Holly “The Wanderer” Brown; MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT Christina “no paddles, fl ow downstream” Dearing; Sam "Buzzkilling Feminist" DePaul; Michelle “The Camera Nerd” DeShon; Emily 42 Beware WHAT? Bewarewolves. “Potty Perfectionist” Dressler and Marissa Marangoni, Bathroom Culture Enthusiast; Brian “Wemlo Twinge” Dunphy; Grace “Always 43 Zep the Bear reviews the Running Away” Ebner; Lois “Beautyscandal” Elswick; Kait "rice cake enthusiast" Erdman; Gabe “Softballin’” Gott; Dan “The Akron Liberal Redneck Knight” Gorman; Paul “I don’t write but I can draw” Ho man; Chris “the Film Freak” Kessinger; Jacob Luther, the Towny Townie 44 Film Freak goes vintage with video Toonist; Hillary "Gets Lost in Her Own World but Reappears if There is Dancing Involved" Martter; TJ “Don’t Call Me Shirley” 33 Masterson; Krissy "Someone make me a real fi sh taco before I go insane" O'Connor; Atticus “Wreckage” Pamer the absolutely real and totally non-fi ctional Georgio Pelogrande; Roger Riddle, Wears Meet Daffodil! She is a social gal who loves everyone she meets. Daffodil the Purple Pants; Amanda "That Crazy Cat Lady" Sedlak-Hevener; Lenny “Where’s Squiggy?” Spengler; Nicole “likes the way Akron enjoys soaking up all of the pets she can get! She loves to roll around in sounds” Stempak; Steve “is not a zombie” Van Auken; Patrick catnip and bat around her toys. Daffodil should do well with children and “Pattycakes” Worden; and The Shane Wynn Supremacy has lived with other cats prior to arriving at Pawsibilities, Humane Society of Greater Akron. Daffodil is hoping to bloom into a forever home soon! ———————————————————— PTAB O L Alka is around 5 years old and weighs about 50 pounds. This pretty lady CONTACT US: D E gets along well with most other dogs but needs a home with no cats, and O c e ...... (330) 842-6606 A General Info ...... [email protected] she would do best in a home with older children. Alka already knows sit, Advertising ...... [email protected] down, stay and settle on command. She is eager to learn much, much, Dstribution ...... [email protected] Website ...... www.thedevilstrip.com more, and she is doing just that, in our manners course (she is attending Facebook ...... Facebook.com/thedevilstrip here at the PHSGA). In this class she is focusing on real life training that she Twitter ...... @akrondevilstrip Instagram ...... @thedevilstrip P can use in new her home, like kennel up on cue, and how to politely greet ETS someone. Alka loves toys of all kinds but a good old fashion tennis ball is ———————————————————— the way to this girls heart. She loves to swim in the summertime and roll around in snow during the winter. Alka would be an amazing running/hiking

The Devil Strip is published bi-monthly by Random Family, LLC. Akron partner, she has been taken off site many times by staff and volunteers and Distribution: The Devil Strip is available free of charge, limited to one copy has easily completed 5-6 miles. Sprint on down and meet Alka today! per reader. Copyright: The entire contents of The Devil Strip are copyright 2016 by Random Family, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part without PAWSibilities Humane Society of Greater Akron written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Publisher does not assume any liability for unsolicited manuscripts, materials, or other content. Any 7996 Darrow Rd., Twinsburg, OH 44087 | 1.888.588.8436 | 330.487.0333 submission must include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All editorial, [email protected] | www.summithumane.org | www.facebook.com/summithumane advertising, and business correspondence should be mailed to the address listed above. AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / THE Devil Strip | 3 pub notes YOU CAN'T ALWAYS Pub Notes >> GIVE WHAT YOU WANT (But if you try, sometimes you’ll give what you need)

early every person I admire in and around never get to spoil my daughter, who wasn’t yet matter of fact. Humble. He did, however, get Akron has been supported, inspired or four months old when he passed. Eventually, animated as he talked about the Summit for befriended by Russ Pry at some point. though, I began to see how my pain was carved Kids at the Knight Center. Still, it was not pride NThis makes the news of the Summit out of a place made by what he’d gifted me. I but enthusiasm, like he was genuinely excited County Executive’s untimely death even more am a better parent, spouse and friend because that he could be part of helping so many painful. Mr. Pry was, by all accounts, as good, of my father. But if I dig, if I try, I can share with children have some fun and load up on school devoted and passionate a public servant as others my dad’s best aspects so those things supplies. He was happy. he was a caring and generous human being. continue to live. It will seem like it’s me, but it’ll Indeed, I have no doubt he was such a good be him. public servant because he was such a great Part of what made him special is that he didn’t human being. We only ever honor people like Russ Pry by carry himself like he thought he was special. becoming more like them and helping others Instead, he preferred, from what I can tell, We could fi ll every single page in this issue with do the same. We grieve, and then we rally. He to see what was special in others. What an tributes from people whose lives were made did so much, he gave so much, the only way excellent way to live. Let’s give that a shot for better by the presence of Russ Pry — and we to keep this community going forward is to do a while, eh? Start small, like with a friend, would still have a waiting list long enough to fi ll more and give more ourselves. The more we and work up to treating a stranger like they’re every single page in every issue the rest of this give — as he gave to so many others — the special, too. Bet you’ll be surprised where that year. And then some, I bet. These testimonies more people we can encourage to follow suit. leads you. About the Cover have fl ooded social media, and as I read them, I wish for something better to say than, “I’m I only crossed paths with him a couple times, Thank you for your dedication, your generosity sorry for your loss.” The phrase just isn’t big but I liked him a lot. We fi rst met because Beth of spirit and your example, Mr. Pry. You will be That time a mysterious enough to fi t. The loss isn’t confi ned to one Boggins at United Way of Summit County missed, but you won’t be far from our thoughts person, not even at a time. These friends, arranged it so I could interview him, as she had or deeds. illustration scared the weeping together, have become — or perhaps earlier done with the late Judy Read, another crap out of me always been — a makeshift family whose local stalwart of compassion and kindness. The — shared bond is both the man they’re mourning whole time we talked, Chris and the principles that guided his life. I kept looking for the A year ago, I solicited local art to adorn the politician. I couldn’t fi nd sides of newspaper racks we would fi rst In the wake of my father’s death, I learned that him. Nary a boast about refurbish with the money we crowdsourced on the good ones are the hardest to honor when what he had done. No Kickstarter. Though I am dedicated to following they’re gone. For a while, all I felt was the pain claims about how great through with this project, it hasn’t happened of what I’d lost. For the last fi ve years, I haven’t he was. Everything was yet. In addition to simultaneously starting a been able to call him up on August 13 and wish bi-monthly print magazine from scratch without him a happy birthday. We won’t bullshit about Right: Russ Pry at Bill a staff or a real budget, I lost out on the initial the Braves or UGA, or politics. I won’t get to Clinton's stump speech in Akron before the primaries. cache of boxes I’d found and substituted them cringe through my laughter as he shares top Photo credit: Shane Wynn with ones ill-suited for this idea. That said, the secret embarrassing stories with my wife. He’ll process itself connected me to some of the most talented people in Akron.

That includes Michael Ayers. You’ve seen his work if you’ve spent time at Lock 4 or hanging It’s not all black & white around Canal Park, where the RubberDucks By Lenny Spengler The Altered Realm by Brian Dunphy and Dan Gorman play. His mural at The Game even inspired the relaunch of NORKA soda.

Well… One day, I found a manila envelope in The GOP nom’s in my pocket my kitchen. It had been hand-delivered, not I’m takin off just like a rocket mailed. Addressed with just my name. Curious My campaign is off the chain and a bit freaked-out, I opened it expecting to I‘m runnin’ dis thing like Usain fi nd surveillance photographs or a cut-out letter Movin’ up like Weezy and George ransom note. Instead, it was an early version of On all the power I gon’ gorge the artwork on the cover of this issue. Concerns Everybody callin’ me a stooge about how it found me faded as soon as I But when I’m Prez, saw how badass the illustration is. As it turns it’s gon’ be huge! out, Miss Pat, the beloved leader of St. Paul’s daycare, where my daughter was then, brought Panda, Panda, it over because the artist is her husband. I’ve Panda, Panda, Panda, since gotten to know them both a little better. Panda, Panda, Panda You’ll be hard-pressed to fi nd two kinder, more generous Akronites. I’m excited to fi nally share this with our readers and the community that Mike’s art regularly celebrates, this time with a 2016 Lenny Spengler Lenny 2016

devilish fl are. Thank you, Mike! — Chris Horne ©

Listen to The Altered Realm Radio Show every Saturday from 8pm-Midnight on KRMA Karma Internet Radio. 4 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM agenda IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO ACT LIKE YOU KNOW

by Chris Horne

areas of Cleveland they typically enjoy, which coupled with the smaller than anticipated RNC crowds, meant slow days for otherwise popular places. Though the offi cial, academically evaluated study won’t be available for months, a travel association pinned the direct economic impact at $180 million. That’s less than half what was promised. // Photo courtesyof clecityhall.com

part of Mogadore, which is our favorite part Transportation Investment Generating Economic THE GOO GOO DOLLS DID A SONG of Mogadore. Here’s the kicker: This new Recovery program (aka - TIGER; aka - would CALLED “BROADWAY” downtown construction will replace the Morley have been funnier if it’d be TIGGER), the US Just 38 years after a study concluded that Health Center Building, which is the kind of Dept. of Transportation came through for the “citizens and court personnel needed a more windowless box people in the past thought city of Akron, coming up with $5 million to customer service friendly building that is easily the people of the future would just love. So complete the Downtown Akron Promenade accessible, safe and secure,” it looks like Akron there’s some addition by subtraction as well as — think roadway and sidewalk repairs with is going to get it. Judge Joy Malek Oldfi eld by addition here. I’m not good at math. // Photo dedicated bike lanes, a roundabout, wayfi nding THE WRONG KIND OF COMIC CON and Mayor Dan Horrigan announced the plans courtesy of googoodolls.com and “green infrastructure,” which I’ll assume Two years ago, when the Republican National for a $21 million courthouse paid for by the means eco-friendly, not Kermit-y (pictured Committee announced they’d selected left- Courthouse Special Projects Fund. In addition above). This will piece together with other leaning Cleveland over Dallas, the convention to hosting the Prosecutor’s Offi ce, Clerk of ongoing projects, so the overall impact should was good news. It was such a different time, Courts and other community agencies, the new Put a TIGER in your town be pretty signifi cant. the pre-Drumpf Era of the RNC, when the courthouse will house the Municipal Court, The feds are ponying up a hot cash injection lawyer for the organizing committee was which serves Akron, Fairlawn, Bath, Richfi eld, for downtown. In the last year of the quoted by Cleveland.com projecting a $400 Springfi eld, Lakemore and the Summit County million economic impact. In fairness, he also said it wasn’t about the money but rather reintroducing Cleveland. While it seems offi cials and law enforcement were at their best, the 7TH ANNUAL attention was focused inside The Q, which was surprisingly empty much of the time, perhaps owed to all the in-party fi ghting and their candidate’s general ugliness towards anyone not wearing one of his stupid red hats. As if expecting swarms of angry bees, the people of Northeast Ohio generally stayed away from

The Altered Realm by Brian Dunphy and Dan Gorman Good Month FOR PEOPLE NAMED LEBRON JAMES Not only did “King James” end Cleveland’s title-drought and put more butts in the seats at The Q than a potential President, but he has a street named after him and a big one too — Main Street. Who says you can’t FRIDAY, AUGUST 12 go home again? 6-9 pm at THIRSTY DOG BREWING CO.

bad Month MAKE YOUR RESERVATION FOR WOMEN WHO'VE BEEN STALKED BY A TODAY FOR AKRON’S EVENT DRUG-ADDICTED FORMER COP OF THE SUMMER! After Alexis DeKany says police were slow to protect her from her UA instructor- turned-boyfriend, former APD offi cer Eric Paull — who prosecutors say used the Visit cgfsevents.org or call CG&FS Development Ohio Law Enforcement Gateway to look-up more than 50 women, including former at 330.384.2882 or [email protected] students and dancers at a strip club he frequented — she watched him take a plea deal for a four-year sentence then request an early release after one year. Please note: This is an Adults Only Event. Guests at the event must be 21 years of age or older.

Listen to The Altered Realm Radio Show every Saturday from 8pm-Midnight on KRMA Karma Internet Radio. AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE CGFS_GUA-DS-Ad.indd 1 THE Devil Strip5/19/16 |2:04 5 PM agenda

WHO IS UA'S NON-TRADITIONALIST, JAPANESE-SPEAKING INTERIM PRESIDENT? In Brief by Chris Horne

After Dr. Scott Scarborough was forced out as Raised a Mormon, Wilson served as a champion mock trial teams existed. So, he had president at The University of Akron (or, if you missionary in Japan. Initially, he thought the banners made and the impression on recruits prefer, he stepped down to resume his fi rst assignment was awful — he hated rice and was immediate. “We have so many good love, classroom instruction), the trustees picked didn’t speak the language — but he parlayed things here — great faculty who care about the law school dean, Matthew Wilson, to serve it into a career in international law, which led the students — but the messaging hasn’t been Akron as interim president. Just four (long) days on the him to academia and then the administration. there,” he says. job, he agreed to an interview. The next day, he He says, “I don’t do things traditionally.” This Ex-Pat was on a plane headed to Japan. From there, approach emerged early as he tried to land The key to his success goes beyond messaging. he’s been “commuting” so he can both get his fi rst “real” job in Japan — doing technical He practices the personal touch and builds a started as president and also keep his promise translations of manuals — but was still trying culture where that’s expected of others. As How this to the students he recruited for the study to master the language, so he decided to ask dean, he sought out, as he had his whole Portage Lakes native abroad program. So here’s our way-too-early- more questions than he was asked. When administrative career, opportunities to speak at met Akron again to-really-judge primer on UA’s new chief cheese. the conversation turned to baseball, Wilson’s schools and colleges. He shows up at recruiting Find more online at thedevilstrip.com. pitch was how he could help the company’s events because, he says, “Talking to a dean for the fi rst time team with his “wicked and an experienced international lawyer is WHO IS HE? curveball” which he used in different.” That’s the kind of thing that gives — ————— He’s the kind of guy who high school to strikeout 15 him leverage over other programs, and it’s why Kelly delivered this speech at the closing night wanted to be a fi re hydrant batters. he puts some of his best people on recruitment, of InternEdge and with her permission, we’re because he wants to help too. As a result, UA’s School of Law grew, which sharing it here because it’s the kind of thing we people. Granted, Matthew Why did the bucked declining national trends. live to hear. - Chris H. Wilson was only three trustees pick him? — ————— at the time and soon set Short answer: Enrollment. So… any concerns? his sights on becoming a He has seemingly been Taking him at his word, the only concern Hello! I'm Kelly Daniels, an audit and tax intern lawyer thanks to a pep talk expert at boosting for now is how he’ll scale his labor-intensive at Meaden & Moore. I grew up in the Portage from Alice, a widow in his enrollment everywhere he’s approach. While that face-to-face effort may Lakes but never spent much time in Akron. Utah neighborhood who been, starting with Temple work as law school dean, the main campus My family and I would go to dinner in North suggested the talkative University’s study abroad could prove to be a whole other matter. This is Canton and my friends and I would hang out at young man follow in his law program in Japan. It where his leadership team, which isn’t currently Belden Village mall in high school. Akron was father’s footsteps. He’s was on the brink of failure, illustrious, will be most vital. At the law school, for special family dinners at Crave or random also the kind of guy willing but in a year he’d turned it he showed skill putting his best people where events at Lock 3. I heard so many kids in high to share a detail like that, which is disarming around completely. In turn, he was rewarded he needed them. As interim president, he’s school talk about how they couldn’t wait to after the secrecy that marked (and marred) the with more opportunities and responsibilities. working with a short deck stacked with B-team leave the area and never look back. previous administration. Though he’s polite Without sharing the recipe to his secret and C-team players because so many of the and engaging, Wilson is no Barney Fife. He’s sauce, Wilson says his approach focuses on university’s talented administrators left during Then I left. I go to school at Loyola University clearly ambitious and driven. I’ve never before understanding the strengths so they can the Scarborough era. “Everything is on the in Chicago and study accounting. I come home met someone who so comfortable describing shine, strengthening weaknesses and putting table,” Wilson says about assessing who will for the summers, but I have to admit, it’s hard his accomplishments and able to do so without good people in a place to do good work. One he’ll ask to help him lead and who will be asked leaving the Windy City. On the north side of coming across like a pompous jerk. There example he offered was how you could fi nd no to go. “It has to be.” Chicago, everyone loves where they are. There wasn’t an ounce of brag involved. evidence in the school of law that UA’s national (continued on page 7)

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T W Brittany Nader // Buzzfeed’s Katie Jackson // Comfort Grace Ebner // I'm really into Amanda Hevener // I'm A E'R H E “Internet Explorer” Podcast If At 8-months pregnant during a the Summit Metro Parks Summer looking forward to the Collings W you’ve got a strange affi nity for warm Ohio summer, there are three Biking Spree and Running Foundation Wings of Freedom mysterious Internet memes and viral things I am really digging: Spree. These two programs have event at MAPS Air Museum in North sensations, this is the podcast for 1) Air conditioning (for obvious encouraged me to get out and Canton. I went last year with my you. Hosted by Katie Notopoulos reasons). exercise on our local trails. For the dad and had a blast - it's a like a and Ryan Roderick, each episode 2) Binge watching the Amazon Biking Spree, participants bike fi ve smaller version of the Cleveland Digging tackles a different weird web TV series "Catastrophe,” trails to earn a bicycle license plate Air Show. For some reason, I really phenomenon, such as the Dancing empathizing with the witty and sticker, and for the Running like historic aircraft. I think it might Pumpkin Guy, celebrity death whirlwind realness of the Spree, participants run six trails to be because my grandfather was a hoaxes, troll farms, Japanese Pigeon character's lives a little too much earn a medal and ribbon. My friends WWII bomber mechanic. (Airplanes Dating Simulators, Twitter parody sometimes. and I are really looking forward are in my blood, or something.) accounts, “Jet Fuel Can’t Melt Steel 3) Simultaneously binge eating Ben to earning our rewards! We've This year I'm dragging my husband Beams,” stan wars and much more. and Jerry's new non-dairy ice also enjoyed attending Running along with me! The topics may sound stupid, but cream fl avors. Vegan and lactose- Spree group runs led by the Akron August 12th ...... 2 - 5pm the amount of depth and discovery intolerant people rejoice: we can Marathon staff. // Photo courtesy of August 13th & 14th ...... 9am - 5pm unveiled in each episode is both now enjoy Chunky Monkey too! Summit County Metro Parks Admission is $12 for adults and $6 fascinating and hilarious. I look // Photo courtesy of Ben and Jerry’s for children 12 and under. forward to tuning in every Friday. // // Photo by David Watts, Jr., courtesy of photo courtesy of Buzzfeed the Collings Foundation

(continued from page 6) I started to fall in love again with Akron’s Sweet Mary’s and he wants to visit Nuevo. I’m sure whether I will stay in the Windy City or the small town feel in a busy Midwestern city. I excited to visit the fl ea market on August 14. Rubber City after graduation, but both hold is so much pride in each neighborhood. In the also learned that there are people who deeply This weekend we are looking at spending an special places in my heart. country’s third largest city, there are always love Akron, which was kind of hard for me to afternoon at The Eye Opener. And before I go hundreds of things to do. believe. The volunteers at Leadership Akron and back to school, I know I need to stop at Rubber I would like to thank all the members of Torchbearers helped me to fi nd that passion City Clothing. Next summer, when we are 21, Leadership Akron and Torchbearers who And then I come home. To Akron. And I in myself. If I’m going to live somewhere, it’s we are sure to have even more fun exploring donated their time and energy to help me fall in struggle to fi nd one event to keep me busy. important for me to love it. Sometimes that different places! love with a city I’ve known for 20 years. Thankfully, this summer I participated in Intern takes a little bit of work but what I’ve found is //Kelly is a 2014 graduate of Manchester High School. Edge. I re-discovered a city that I had known my that you can always fi nd something good. I’m not quite sure where I want to take my I now study accounting and management at Loyola whole life. With the help of great people who accounting degree yet. I saw some audit and University Chicago and plan to graduate May 2018. I were passionate about where they lived, I found My boyfriend and I are excited to keep trying tax this summer with Meaden & Moore. In am currently an audit and tax intern with Meaden & Moore in Akron. In my free time I love spending time new restaurants and awesome things going on new restaurants. Last weekend we went the fall I will see investigative accounting with on the family boat, reading, and catching up on the in Akron. to the Lockview and loved it! I want to try Meaden & Moore’s Chicago offi ce. I’m also not latest political news.

United Way of Summit County VOLUNTEERS PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN UNITED WAY’S WORK TO MAKE OUR COMMUNITY STRONGER.

we are hosting a variety of community engagement events in 2016, uniting volunteers to make a difference for our neighbors. the projects can accept large groups, and offer teambuilding and networking opportunities. GET INVOLVED @ UWSUMMIT.ORG/VOLUNTEER

WhWhATAT ThThISIS PLACEPLACE NEEDSNEEDS.. great things happen when we LIVE UNITED!

United Way of Summit County UWSUMMIT.ORG

AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / THE Devil Strip | 7 agenda

18 NORTH FORGE STREET / AKRON, OH (AT THE CORNER OF NORTH FORGE ST. AND EAST MARKET ST.) 11:30 a.m. EVERY FRIDAY to THRU SEPTEMBER 2 1:30 p.m. SPACE(Follow Up) CGFS.ORG/FOODTRUCKFRIDAY "A Brief History of Tang"

by Georgio Pelogrande

Upon doing some follow up research on an again; only this time aloud and in the voice of earlier article I wrote about outer space, I have the mayor from The Simpsons. Done? Good. discovered that the refreshing drink known as I'm sure now you can feel the seriousness and CGFS_FTF-DS-Ad.indd 1 6/8/16 3:30 PM Tang was invented for astronauts who were sincerity in his words. travelling in space. It seems that the astronauts had become tired of only drinking water or malt Where was I? Ah yes... Hence, a drink mix was liquor while in orbit or on the way to the moon. created that would be known as "T.A.N.G." which originally stood for Taste Always The first attempt to provide an additional option Now Greatness. Eventually, the apparently proved to be futile. Scientific pioneer Raymond nonsensical acronym was dropped and it just A. Croc attempted to install an entire working became known as Tang, which is a shortened McDonalds on the space shuttle complete with version of the word used to describe its taste: a food preparation, service and cleaning staff. "tangy." R Of course this made the shuttle too heavy. Also, A M during dietary testing in zero gravity several Now you know. I'm sure President Kennedy F astronauts suffered mild heart attacks after would be proud to know that I am continuing eating a steady menu of cheeseburgers and the to spread the word about his groundbreaking fan-favorite McRib. work in deep space refreshments.

So, rather than risk the health of America's I will now leave you with my favorite quote bravest souls, President John F. Kennedy about space drinks: "If only LeBron James were put out a challenge to scientists and drink to star in a remake of the critically acclaimed manufacturers alike. classic film Space Jam would the work of so many astronauts and drink manufacturers be In a quote from his 1967 press release he fulfilled. For then would Sprite reign supreme." stated, "There is no more important task than - Georgio Pelogrande 2016 developing a powdered drink mix that will get our boys into space and back without ever Well, until next time, try and be nice. That's my knowing the hunger of being thirsty. For after advice. That rhymed. See, Kanye, that wasn't so all, space is like a vast desert, cold and dark; hard. On a related note, I think I just figured out F with no sand, water, cacti from which to get what my topic will be for next month's article. A water, water fountains or gravity. Let the space L E shuttle be like a giant metal camel, and let a Thank you and you're welcome. new innovative drink fill that camel's hump." STARTS ENDS -Pres JFK, 1967, Official Press Release. // Catch Georgio most Saturdays from 8 pm to 10AM MKT 2PM midnight on the Altered Realm radio show on By the way, if that quote doesn't sound KRMAradio.com. JOIN US ON THESE DATES! completely legitimate, go back and read it JUNE 12 JULY 10 AUG 14 SEPT 11 Located at Urban Eats / 51 E. Market St. WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM july Comics • july Comics • july Comics Poetry Festival Porch cm Fairlawn & Hudson School of Music cn Teen Stage cq Hereford Dr 923 cp cs KinderCare Learning Center 909 950 co KID ZONE New Belgium Brewing 973 Hereford Park 943 Hereford Dr Beer Garden cr cl Wye Dr 886 974 ct

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1 44 8 Silent Disco 82 9 Conger The Merriman N. Highland 83 Next 6 Wally Wa e Georgio’s MarketChipotle Path Library 42 Walgreens West Market4 Casterton53 PorchRokr Nemer Bldg. WHAT TO BRING: 3 • A water bottle: There will be Reverse Osmosis water Revival 7 stations (thanks to Donamarc Water Systems), so bring a reusable water bottle to fi ll up. Or you can purchase Highland Theater Highland ShoeSquare Repair RecordsSquare Bar AL Post a collapsible water bottle at PorchRokr. Ray’s Pub 21 • Cash to tip performers: Hear something you like? The Matinee 5 Tip the band!

HighlandOhio Tavern Brewing • Camera/Phone: Take pictures/videos and be sure to TheWHAT 411 YOU use hashtag #porchrokr

NEED TO KNOW • Portable phone charger in case you run out of Angel Falls TO MAKE PORCH battery from fi lming all those videos, Snaps, etc. Annabells ROKR A ROKN • Sunscreen (No one likes to look or feel like a lobster.)

Mary Coyles GOOD TIME • Bug spray

Poetry Festival Porch cm Fairlawn & Hudson School of Music cn Teen Stage

cq Hereford Dr 923 cp cs KinderCare Learning Center 909 950 co KID ZONE New Belgium Brewing 973 Hereford Park 943 Hereford Dr Beer Garden cr cl Wye Dr 886 974 ct

225 ck bt Portage Dr Metz Ave

N. Portage Path 146 150

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1 44 8 Silent Disco 82 9 Conger TheThe MMerriman N. Highland 83 Next 6 Wally Wa e Georgio’s MarketChipotle Path Library 42 Walgreens West Market4 Casterton53 Nemer Bldg.Bld 3 Pictured left (top to bottom): A Revival 7 band plays on a neighborhood Highland Theater Highland ShoeSquare Repair RecordsSquare Bar AL Post porch; Look for compost and Ray’s Pub 21 The Matinee 5 recycling bins at this year’s festival; 2015 crowd shot; HighlandOhio Tavern Brewing Silent Disco at PorchRokr 2015. Photos by Shane Wynn. Angel Falls Annabells

Mary Coyles

10 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM PorchRokr

• A tote bag or backpack to haul your merch on your lawn. So set up that yard sale you’ve ID. Suggested donation is $5. 12pm Rain barrel been putting off all summer, or let the kids sell A how-to on creating a simple and • Comfortable shoes to get you around to lemonade and cookies. LEARN SOMETHING: inexpensive rain barrel for your home see all of the vendors and musicians. Is sustainability your thing? PorchRokr will FIND PARKING: provide several opportunities for DIY education 1pm Seed saving • A friend! Bonus points if they’ve never been Coming to PorchRokr from outside of Highland this year. Let’s Grow Akron will teach you A how-to on saving seeds from your to Akron or PorchRokr before. Square? There will be street parking available as everything from composting to seed saving to garden to plant next year well as some parking in business lots. Look for upcycling plastic bags. KEEP IT CLEAN: signs telling you where to park and where to 2pm Plastic grocery bag upcycling Please look for the recycling, compost and NOT park. Workshops will all take place in the triangle A fun and creative way to reuse those garbage receptacles to dispose of your waste. park at Highland and Edgerton. See the dozens of plastic bags we all have at Residents, please leave your recycling and GET AROUND: workshop times listed below. home (*bring your own bag of bags) garbage bins on the curb. Summit Cycle will have a bike share at this year’s PorchRokr festival near the N. Highland 11am Composting 101 3pm Home canning SELL YOUR WARES: Ave cul-de-sac. Adult sized bikes will be A how-to on setting up, establishing A how-to on preserving and canning If you live on the PorchRokr route and want available for use at the festival. Bikes will need and maintaining composting at home your garden's bounty to make some extra money, you can sell stuff to be signed out with a driver license or state Jamming Granny Growlers and Glasses PorchRokr 2016 Beer Garden to Feature Artwork by Kevin Smalley

by Michelle DeShon

Kevin Smalley, 29-year-old artist from Cuyahoga Belgium Brewing Company. lap. The vision stuck how I can blend them all together.” At the Falls, has designed the illustration that will be and for me represents moment, one of his favorite kinds of artwork featured on approximately 300 growlers and “This project is unique an homage to all the is illustration, like what he has brewed up for glasses for the Beer Garden at PorchRokr’s because it is an illustration creative and young-at- PorchRokr 2016. festival on August 20th, 2016. that helps brand a heart women I have met music festival on a mass in my life,” said Smalley. Pictured left: An illustration of Kevin Smalley’s design When he was invited to create the design for production level. I'm honored that will be appearing on the growlers and glasses the glassware, he said that upon hearing the to have my artwork displayed Smalley said, “I take pleasure at this year’s Beer Garden at the PorchRokr festival. name of the festival, the idea of an “eccentric on various growlers and glasses. in creating visual art for the (Image courtesy of Kevin Smalley) Beverly Hillbillies type character” popped into It's always special to see your sheer enjoyment I receive from the his mind and he was unable to forget that artwork in the hands of others. art making process and fi nal product. image. Guests Another unique dimension of the Exploring various ideas and techniques The Beer Garden, located at 941 Dopler Ave at the festival illustration perhaps, is using a female character enrich my perception and understanding of next to Champlin Cleaners and Blue Sky Art can fi ll up to represent the festival. I enjoy drawing female life.” Smalley’s favorite responses to his work Gallery, will be serving New Belguim Brewing their jamming characters, and my fi rst vision when asked to that he has received over the years are the ones Company beer. Guests can purchase a $5 beer granny glass create an illustration for the event was an older that are “simple and kind.” token. Come early to sample micro brews with beers woman sitting in her rocking chair enjoying from New Belgium Brewing Company. from New some brews and good music with a cat in her Diversity keeps Smalley on his toes. He said, “I typically bounce between design, illustration, // Michelle DeShon is an aspiring journalist with an Pictured left: Kevin Smalley, the man behind the designs on the glasses fi ne art, digital art and natural art, such as sand unhealthy obsession with antique cameras, french fries and growlers at this year’s Beer Garden at the PorchRokr festival. sculpting and rock balancing. I love working in and vinyl records. (Photo courtesy of Kevin Smalley) each one of these mediums and often explore

AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / THE Devil Strip | 11 PorchRokr Standing Room Six PorchRokr Bands We Think You Should Know å Highland Square by Brittany Nader and Andrew Leask

LIVE MUSIC å StepS2Change Since 2011, Mike Schartiger, Mike Ternosky, Justin Redlinger and Jon Kogut have delivered feel-good grooves to the Akron area, playing a blend of funk, jazz and reggae that perfectly complements any outdoor summer happening. The band’s mission is to make the world a better place, “one note at a time,” and while such a goal may seem broad LINEUP and idealistic, hearing their smooth, melodic jams can at least put the listener in a much more positive, united headspace. These guys have a noticeable Sublime vibe with all the attributes and sensibilities local Deadheads will dig. Tunes like “Paradise,” “Someday,” “Live For Tomorrow” Friday, 8/5 • 9pm – Midnight and “Cloud 9” communicate the group’s message of hope and peace, accented by staccato Ozone – chords signature to the reggae style. As is tradition in reggae music, the group crafts songs ç Funk & Roll, Rock & Soul with a somewhat political message, sharing their words of wisdom about a brighter future. StepS2Change recently performed with blues rockers Outdated View at Barley House downtown Saturday, 8/6 • 9pm – Midnight and will make their rounds across the Northeast Ohio region as their sound and catalog expand. Anna & The Consequences – (Photo courtesy of the band) Speakeasy Jazzy Blues

Sunday, 8/7 • 12 – 3pm ç Umojah Nation Women have made an incredible impact in reggae music, but too often Jazz Shepherds – their contributions to the genre are overlooked or forgotten. As a response, Akron’s own Umojah Jazz Nation banded together to celebrate collaboration between men and women musicians, placing husband-and-wife powerhouse Tracey and Stefano Nguma at the forefront of the group. Its name Friday, 8/12 • 9pm – Midnight comes from the Swahili word for “unity,” which is quite appropriate, as this eight-piece ensemble Sausalito – works seamlessly together, delivering both original tunes and covers of revered reggae artists like R&B & Jazz é Bob Marley and Freddie McGregor. Umojah Nation has shared the stage with Carlos Jones and the BALCONY PARTY PLUS Band, Mighty Diamond and Dub is a Weapon, just to name a few. As Akron’s most distinct and harmonious reggae group, it’s not hard to fi nd the musicians performing around town at Saturday, 8/13 • 8 – 11pm DJ Naeno – Mustard Seed, Hardesty Park, Musica and nearly any other venue that can contain their powerful, Funky Dance Party vivacious sound and energy. (Photo by Scott Evans Photography)

Sunday, 8/14 • 12 – 3pm é Violet Blue Head north for an hour and change, and you’ll reach the city of Norwalk, Little Steve O Blues Duo – home of spacey rockers Violet Blue. Though they may be rooted in Ohio, their music sends the Blues listener straight through earth’s atmosphere and nestled high up into the stars and galaxies. With layered vocals and distorted guitars, the quartet delivers a lush, textured sound that’s both dreamy Friday, 8/19 • 9pm – Midnight and disorienting. “Dazed” could be considered the perfect introduction to the group, serving as a Acid Cats – compelling original tune packed with fervid vocals, animalistic drumming and the band’s signature Soul Funk Jazz Fusion dense and otherworldly guitars. The band released its fi rst, self-titled EP this year, available at violetblueoh.bandcamp.com. An inspired fusion of shoegaze, punk and alternative rock, Violet è PORCHROKR AFTER PARTY Blue is igniting venues across the state with their loud and vibrant live performances. (Photo by Saturday, 8/20 • 9pm – Midnight Anderson Rush) New Belgium Fat Tire & Friends Tap è The Village Bicycle Cleveland punk band The Village Bicycle released their second Takeover ALL DAY album back in February. “Fits and Starts,” which is available on the group’s Bandcamp page, balances classic punk posturing with something smarter and deeper. When she sings “Hot Sunday, 8/21 • 12 – 3pm Mom,” vocalist Elizabeth Kelly has her tongue fi rmly planted in her cheek: “She’s a woman of the Gretchen Pleuss – nineties, she knows what she’s about. / She watches Nancy Grace while she’s working out.” But Acoustic Pop these punks can be profound, too, as in “Interstellar,” the album’s fi rst track: “The metal in our bodies comes from outer space / … / And when we die, someone will take our place / And we’ll Friday, 8/26 • 9pm – Midnight become the minerals beneath their feet.” High and low can both fi nd a home within the noise Zach & The Bright Lights – and the rhythm of The Village Bicycle. (Photo by Peter Larson) Soul & Inspiring ê Indie Folk Rock ê Treespeak Fusion prog-rock band Treespeak is a newcomer to the Northeast Ohio music Saturday, 8/27 • 9pm – Midnight scene. Composed of Andy Russo on drums, Doug Gallo on bass, Elias Bolick on guitar and David DJ Mind-E – House Boehm on the keyboard, the group fi nds its groove and sticks with it, trading funky improvised melodies. Since forming in late January, Treespeak has played shows throughout the region. Sunday, 8/28 • 12 – 3pm On Aug. 7, they will perform at Cin Dee’s Place in Medina. Get a taste of their sound on their DJ Ben Fulkman – Bandcamp page: treespeaktunes.bandcamp.com. (Photo by Alex Hall) Spinning Funky Soul-filled Vinyl ë Kiss Me Deadly Don’t bother trying to pin down Kiss Me Deadly. With their eclectic mix of classic rock instrumentation and offbeat touches – such as bouzouki electric mandolin – it’s easiest to just call them an indie rock band and call it a day. After eight years of performing *NO COVER CHARGE throughout Cleveland (with the occasional visit to Akron), they’ve also earned the right to be called old pros. Their quirky style – and even quirkier sense of humor – is on full display in their ë music videos, which feature off-the-wall visuals like campy secret agent karate fi ghts and a man in HIGHLAND SQUARE: a chicken suit. Their sound is infectious too, with infl uences from blues rock to folk to punk. Their 867 West Market Street debut album, “What You Do In the Dark,” released last year, is available on iTunes. (Photo courtesy Akron, Ohio, 44303 • 330-434-7333 of the band) www.MustardSeedMarket.com WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM Poetry Festival Porch cm Fairlawn & Hudson School of Music cn Teen Stage cq Hereford Dr 923 cp cs KinderCare Learning Center 909 950 co KID ZONE New Belgium Brewing 973 Hereford Park 943 Hereford Dr Beer Garden cr cl Wye Dr 886 974 ct

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1 44 8 Silent Disco 82 9 Conger The Merriman N. Highland 83 Next 6 Wally Wa e Georgio’s MarketChipotle Path Library 42 Walgreens West Market4 PorchRokr Casterton53 Nemer Bldg. 3 Revival 7 Highland Theater Highland ShoeSquare Repair RecordsSquare Bar AL Post Ray’s Pub 21 The Matinee 5

HighlandOhio Tavern Brewing

Angel Falls Annabells Mary Coyles Bands BY GENRE

2nd Floor Jazz Trio ...... Jazz Jeff Klemm & the Letters ...... Alt. Rock Pop 722 Ensemble ...... Jazz JLB (Jared Lees) ...... Fusion Actual Form ...... Prog / Punk John Patrick & The Outside Voices ....Rock & Roll Alexis Antes ...... Original Singer Songwriter Johnny G ...... Acoustic Blues & Funk Analog Bandits ...... Progressive Rock Just Add Water! ...... Alternative Rock Axon-Neuron ...... Progressive Rock Kathy Johnson Trio ...... Folk and Americana Backroom Boys Bluegrass Band ...... Bluegrass Keeler/Mirth ...... Instrumental Acoustic Guitar Bad Hounds ...... Blues / Folk Rock Kiss Me Deadly ...... Indie pop rock Bad News Benny and KKARMA ...... Acoustic duo, folk, blues, the Night Fevers ...... Folk, Blues, Rock cool versions of popular songs Band Kamp Rejects ...... Rockish, Punkish Kofi Boakye (& Yours Truly) ...... R&B, Jazz, Funk Birthday Noose ...... Garage / Psych Layer Cake ...... Americana / Alt Country Blues Bizarros, The ...... Original India Rock Madison Cummins ...... Singer, Songwriter, Acoustic Guitar set Blackswamp Blues ...... Swamp Boogie Blues Map the World ...... Rock Bobby Bubonic and the Plague ...... Punk / Rock / Alternative Massive Hotdog Recall .....Rock (with trombone) Break Even ...... Jazz / Rock Max Howard Adams ...... Acoustic Bro Dylan ...... Rock-Blues Mick and Rick ...... 60s and 70s Rock and Soul By Light We Loom ...... Indie-Pop Morning Star ...... Bluegrass / Americana Byke ...... Classic Rock Moxie Collect ...... Folk Rock Celtic Rush ...... Irish Traditional Natalie Grace Martin ...... Pop / Acoustic Clay Otter ...... Grunge / Alt National Security ...... Alternative Rock Conway Brothers Outdated View ...... Blues / Rock Band ...... Blues / Funk / Soul / Rock Pizza Ghost ...... Lo-Fi Indie Garage Rock Copali ...... Instrumental Indie / Funk Lunch Poshen ...... Pop Rock- Girl Grunge for and Copper Pennies ...... Alternative / Country / Pop en D Punch Drunk Tagalongs ...... Indie Rock Op i Cosmic Lemons ...... Funk / Fusion / Jazz nn QS Jazz ...... Jazz / Swing / Blues w e Cover Band, The ...... Dance Music (all decades) o r Rachel Roberts ...... Indie Folk ! David Loy ...... Rockabilly / Americana N Recipe for Life ...... Folk / Pop Dead End Job ...... Punk Rock RED ROSE PANIC ...... Hip Hop Band Deely Stan ...... Rock Red Tape Revolution ...... Hard Rock Doerr & Drumm & COOP & Guitar ... Classic Rock Reloaded ...... Classic Rock Duchess ...... Classic Country Rhodes Street Empire's Child ...... Rock Rude Boys ...... Reggae, Rock, Punk, Ska, Funk Eskimo Sisters ...... Pop-Punk Ryann Anderson ...... Folk Jazz Instrumentalist Eye Wonder ...... Progressive Alternative Scarlet & The Harlots ...... Blues/Rock T F-5 ...... Rock Sean Benjamin .... Urban Acoustic Pop / Alt Rock he uare Fiendish Thingy ...... Indie Rock SexyPigDivas ...... Experimental Rock Brew d Sq Filthy Kangaroos ...... Dirty Blues Rock Skychief ...... Rock pub in Highlan Flowers In Flames .... Post Punk, Shoegaze, Psych Social Hostages ...... Punk Free World ...... Roots Reggae / Punk Rock Soleo ...... Middle Eastern Rock/Progressive Friendly Faux ...... Alt / Psych / Grunge Rock Sons of Midori ...... Rock Front Porch ...... Folk SoulShine ...... Blues / Rock HAPPY HOUR: 1/2 o appetizers and $3 house drafts GoldenBear ...... Indie Splitroot ...... New Orleans Gypsy Jazz LUNCH SPECIAL: M-F 11:30am-3:00pm Grompa ...... House band Standing Rock Blues Band ...... Blues Late night menu after 10pm Hellespont ...... Post Rock / Drone State Park ...... Indie Rock Hillbilly Savant ...... Folk-infused Pop, Mixed with StepS2Change ...... Rock Bluegrass, Blues and Jazz Infl uence Stumpy Basin Volunteers ...... Bluegrass Hoodoo BBQ ...... Americana For details visit or www.ohiobrewing.com Stunt Cycle ...... Rock Party Dance Band Hoseff ...... Acoustic Rock 804 W. Market Street, Akron, OH 44303 • (234) 208-6797 Iris Isadora ...... Folk (continued on page 15) (at the corner of Highland Ave and W. Market St.) Hours: M-W 11:30-midnight, TH-Sat 11:30-Close, Sun 1pm-midnight AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE Porchrokr

November and has since performed at venues Pictured left: Punch Drunk Tagalongs perform at the all around the area, including Annabell’s, Beachland Tavern, opening for And The Kids. Photo Musica and the Beachland Ballroom, to name courtesy of Punch Drunk Tagalong / Facebook. a few.

“We started off playing my original songs, and “People always seem surprised — ‘Oh, how as the band has grown, we’ve kind of broken long have you guys been playing together?’ off from just me writing,” she explains. “Now and I’m always like, ‘We’re kind of an the whole band writes as a unit, and our sound instant band still,’ and they’re always like, is actually starting to evolve… which is really ‘What?!’ Sometimes, we come off as slightly cool,” she says. professional,” Stahnke laughs, “which is good and what we really, really strive for. You want Punch Drunk Tagalongs is comprised of Stahnke to make people think that you’ve been playing on vocals and guitar, Caleb Lemmo on guitar, together for a decade, so that’s what we try to Alex Wright on bass and Ryan Hunter on do, and sometimes it comes off that way.” drums. The members were all friends prior to forming the band. Lemmo is Stahnke’s Punch Drunk Tagalongs released its fi rst four- boyfriend, Lemmo and Hunter are in another song demo in January, which is available on What a Di erence a Year Makes area band together called Broken Mugs, and Bandcamp and iTunes, and is currently working Punch Drunk Tagalongs according to Stahnke, they got to know Wright on a second recording, which the band hopes hit the main stage at PorchRokr 2016 because he can be found at “any random bar to release in early September. Following on any given night.” that, the members hope by Gabe Gott to continue building a “We had some growing fanbase and playing more Punch Drunk Tagalongs’ frontwoman, Alisha explains how she is on the other side at the pains in the beginning, shows regionally. However, Stahnke, attended last year’s PorchRokr as a beginning of her adulthood and how she just but we learned how to according to Stahnke, they member of the audience. This year, she and her wanted to be on the other side of it,” she says. communicate and how have an even bigger goal for band will not only be performing, but doing so “So I guess it’s very similar to that. I’ve always to work as a group, the not-too-distant future. on the main stage. felt like that. I enjoy going to shows, but I together,” Stahnke always have been drawn to play rather than just says. “I think it’s just “I know one of my goals in “I love being part of the audience and seeing watch.” like anything — any life before I’m 30 is to get into great bands play, but it’s a whole other relationship — you learn a car — SUV, van, whatever experience being on the other side of that and Stahnke started out as a singer/songwriter and how to communicate it is — and cross the country playing to a crowd. I really, really enjoy that,” spent about a year writing original songs and within it and how the dynamics work, and now and play music to different people every says Stahnke. “It’s kind of similar to what I’ve performing at area open mic nights. It was we’re like a nicely oiled machine.” single night. I’m sure that’s a few other band been reading, ‘Hunger Makes Me a Modern around this time last year that she decided she members’ goal also. That’s a really big goal, Girl’ by Carrie Brownstein, and she actually wanted to form a band. The band played its fi rst show this past though,” she laughs. GET TO KNOW As the team prepares for the 2016 PorchRokr Marron creates a new design to represent the festival, I sat down with Anita Marron, festival each year. The fi rst year, the logo was a Pictured below: Anita Marron’s graphic art: who is responsible for the graphic design simple black cricket on a blue background. This an infographic showing the rotation of the A N I T art at the PorchRokr festivals. She is the year’s design will be an image featuring white PorchRokr location over the years. This year, it’s mastermind behind the PorchRokr logo. She’s piano keys that double as a fence. back to location #1. Marron says, “we rotate also responsible for creating the brochures, [the location] that way like the neighborhood postcards and banners that we see the day of She enjoys the work that she creates for doesn’t get fatigued... I think it draws people the event. PorchRokr because she has total “creative from different sections of the neighborhood to A M A freedom.” “I really do love the graphic art side different parts of the neighborhood that they When asked why she enjoys the work she of the festival, from the initial concepts to the don’t normally travel through.” (Image courtesy creates for PorchRokr, she said, “This is what fi nal designs,” said Marron. of Anita Marron) I want my neighborhood to be like… full of R R O N energy, art, music and neighbors that enjoy // Michelle DeShon is an aspiring each other, and care about the place they live. journalist with an unhealthy obsession THE WOMAN BEHIND I can’t just wait around for someone to create with antique cameras, french fries and what I want have happen, and complain when vinyl records. PORCHROKR'S it doesn’t.” GRAPHIC DESIGN She began volunteering for Highland Square by Michelle DeShon Neighborhood Association (HSNA) in 2009, and by late 2010, she was named President of HSNA. After a friend invited her to a meeting for Art in the Square, she got involved in the art committee. She then got involved with the fi rst PorchRokr festival in spring of 2013. She tries to keep her designs simple yet interesting.

Pictured left: Anita Marron’s 2016 PorchRokr design. (Image courtesy of Anita Marron)

14 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM Poetry Festival Porch cm Fairlawn & Hudson School of Music cn Teen Stage

cq Hereford Dr 923 cp cs KinderCare Learning Center 909 950 co KID ZONE New Belgium Brewing 973 Hereford Park 943 Hereford Dr Beer Garden cr cl Wye Dr 886 974 ct

225 ck bt Portage Dr Metz Ave

N. Portage Path 146 150

943 Beer EarthQuaker Devices Dopler Dr Garden Electric Pressure Beer Garden Stage dl Cooker Caberet bs 179 do 235

168 dk namirreM 183 dp

215

dn N. Highland

br notretsaC dq 156 122 dm 187

144 dt Jilly’s Music Room Conger dr bq 172 Main Stage 1 171 94 ds N. Portage Path

147 bp bo ek Summit Toyota 159 75 Jazz Stage Edgerton Square Records Mustard Seed Market & Cafe bm bl

Revival 2 bn 62 bk 150 56

1 44 8 Silent Disco 82 9 Conger The Merriman N. Highland 83 Next 6 Wally Wa e Georgio’s MarketChipotle Path Library 42 Walgreens West Market4 Casterton53 porchrokr Nemer Bldg. 3 KRON Revival A 7 Highland Theater Highland ShoeSquare Repair RecordsSquare Bar AL Post Ray’s Pub 21 The Matinee 5

HighlandOhio Tavern Brewing

C

T A S AngelP Falls Poetry E AnnabellsI T A W D Mary CoylesL I OF THE M

Mini Poetry Festival at Porch Rokr by Noor Hindi Did you know that Akron is the Poetry Capital top it off, the weather was beautiful, and the WHAT I WISH I KNEW... of the Midwest? If you didn't, don't feel too sunset at the end of the night was no less bad, because three months ago, neither did than magical. The brains behind the PorchRokr Festival I. But that was before I met with Annal Vyas, by Michelle DeShon Katie Reed, and Yoly Miller, three badass So you may ask me, after reading all of this, community members, poetry advocates, and oh Nervous Poodle Poet, what can poetry do Anita Marron, Jonathan Morschl, and Karen Starr have been working to put together the all around great people. for Akron and why the hell is it important? PorchRokr festival since its fi rst year in 2013. They refl ect on what they wish they had known Simple. It brings people together; it provides when they fi rst got involved with Akron’s music and art festival. When we fi rst met at Mustard Seed Market an avenue for self expression, it changes the at the end of May, we talked poetry festivals, way we see the world (and Akron), and, as sidewalk poetry, literary conferences, giant one of my favorite poets (Rita Dove) puts it, billboards with poems on them, and other “Poetry is language at its most distilled and ideas that we're thinking of bringing to most powerful.” Akron. Over the last two months, we've organized readings, as well an Akron mini If you missed our debut reading on July 2, I poetry festival in collaboration with Porch want to extend an invite to our Akron Mini Rokr on August 20. Throughout all of this Poetry Festival on August 20, in collaboration planning, Akronites have cheered us on, and with Porch Rokr. This event will be Akron’s I've personally been shocked at the sheer fi rst poetry festival. Needless to say, it’ll be volume of enthusiasm we've received from a special event. Aside from eight readers, poetry fans in the city (there's more of them including our amazing editor Sophie Hamad, than you think). we’re going to have sidewalk poetry featuring the work of University of Akron poetry Our fi rst reading took place at Bluff Blue Door professor Mary Biddinger. We’ll also be Gallery on July 2 in collaboration with the assembling an Akron Cento at the event (a Art Walk. We had nine extraordinary readers, poem composed of verses or passages taken including Katie Mertz, founder of The Big, from other authors). If you happen to be at Big Mess reading series, which takes place in Porch Rokr, be sure to drop by, say hi, tell us Annabel's the fi rst Saturday of every month. about your favorite poet/poem, and help us Anita Marron Karen Starr I could brag about the rest of the readers for celebrate Akron as the Poetry Capital of Head of arts and graphics. Responsible for environment rentals like another 15 pages, but I'll save you the pain. the Midwest. “I wish that I would have kind of trusted that waste bins, portable toilets, and critical That night, Yoly and Michael Owens (owner the neighborhood would be as accepting as it elements like booths, tables and chairs. // For more poetic badassery, check out The Nervous of Bluff) provided light refreshments, and kept Poodle Poet’s blog at nervouspoodlepoetry.com. is … like that the neighbors would all embrace She dubbed herself “zero waste lady.” two bonfi res going throughout the night. To Then go write some poems, you poet, you. it. The fi rst meeting of PorchRokr, I’m kind of standing on a cliff and you just jump and you “Well, because the very specifi c thing that I do hope that there’s something below you. And every PorchRokr morning, by putting a bunch (continued from page 13) The Stone Wheels ...... Rock that’s kind of how it works out every year. Kind of tables in the back of my van and schlep- Summer Daze ...... 60/70s and More The Village Bicycle ...... Rock of trust that everyone’s gonna do their stuff ping them all over the neighborhood, I wish Taylor Carano ...... Rock -Blues-Funk The Waves ...... Alternative Rock and the neighborhood’s going to love it and the I would have known that I should have put a The Beyonderers ...... Surf / Twang / Hard Rock Third Saturday ...... Jam Band bands will all show up…” little packing blanket on the back of my van” The Drawing Blanks ...... Alt / Indie Rock This Epic Life ...... Folk, Funk because her car has experienced some wear and tear, but she said they are “good scars for The Dreemers ...... Garage Soul and Rock N Roll Three Legged Chairs ...... Indie/Alternative Rock Jonathan Morschl the neighborhood.” The Effangee Band ...... Original Folk / Rock Thursdays with Red Wolf ...... Folk, Rock, Blues “Co Chair” / Americana Time Cat ...... Rock N Roll “I think it’s just the amount of work that “I wish I would have known that more people The Friends Club ...... Rock and Roll Treespeak .. Progressive Rock / Fusion / Jam band goes into it, as easy as it is now, there’s still all would have helped out had we asked that fi rst The Jon Mosey Trio ...Original Akron Roots Rock this work that needs to be done in terms of year. I think that we were all so busy putting Twin Atomic...... Rock The Mickeys ...... Celtic Rock planning that it doesn’t seem like you can just it together and not really understanding what Umojah Nation Reggae ...... Reggae replicate every time for whatever reason. It’s type of help we needed, I wish I would have The New Rangers ...... Rock Unwind Galvanize ...... Indie / Alt ever-evolving, we never thought that it would asked more friends to just show up that day The Painbirds ...... Indie Valley Girls ...... Experimental / Krautrock get as big as it is now, so learning how to scale and we’ll fi gure something out for you to do.” The Permanents ...... Alternative Rock that and you know, over the years that’s been Version: Mary ...... Rock The Rainbow Emergency ...... Soul Pop a challenge.” Vicious Six, The ...... 70's - Now Rock The Ravenna Arsenal ...... Hard Rock / Metal Violent High Fives, The ...... Indie / Rock / Folk Pictured above: Karen Starr, Jonathan Morschl and Anita Marron, some of the creative visionaries behind the The Rhythm Syndicate ...... Blues / Swing / R&B Xtra Crispy ...... Blues-Rock PorchRokr festival. (Michelle DeShon / The Devil Strip) The PorchRokr logo designed by Anita Marron. The Shadow Division ...... Indie / Alternative (Image courtesy of Anita Marron / The Devil Strip)

AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / THE Devil Strip | 15 16 GET ARTSY AT ONE OF OUR EVENT PICKS

17 EAST AKRON NEIGHBORHOOD GETS CREATIVE MAKEOVER the arts 22 PLAY OUTSIDE AT THE NEW arts EXPLORING THE ARTS IN AKRON CIVIC COMMONS DOWNTOWN News Brief

Upcoming Myopia Programs MARK MOTHERSBAUGH SECOND SATURDAY CURATOR GALLERY LAST LOOK PARTY: WE ARE NOT MEN TALK: A CLOSER LOOK AT MYOPIA August 20 • 2 pm • Free concert August 13 • 1:30 pm í DOWNTOWN@DUSK: EXCLUSIVE MEET & GREET: MARK 15 60 75 THE NUMBERS BAND MOTHERSBAUGH & GERALD CASALE August 18 • 6:30 • Free concert August 13 • 6:30 pm* MYOPIA DOWNTOWN@DUSK: HALF CLEVELAND FILM SCORING EVENT: THE INSTRUCTOR August 25 • 6:30 pm • Free concert August 18 • 9 pm • Free *purchase tickets at AkronArtMuseum.org ê Through August 28, 2016 ë Akron Art Museum & MOCA Cleveland One South High I Akron, OH 44308 I AkronArtMuseum.org è ç Akron Art Prize September 3 through October 1, Summit Art Space The Akron Art Prize is a month-long arts show that invites the community to see and enjoy works from local artists while also providing artists the opportunity to display their work. It provides an entryway into the downtown arts district and a look at a competition with å é winners decided by popular vote. Visitors can download the Akron Art Prize to their phone and vote for their favorite pieces of art. The winner will be announced on Oct. 1 at the The palette: Akron Art Museum. Our picks for arts events happening in August by Bronlynn Thurman

å Exclusive Meet and Greet $10 for spoken word and music only. Cash Bar. sculpture, postcard drawings, paintings and so with Mark Mothersbaugh and much more. Gerald Casale é Shakespeare: Macbeth August 13 at the Every weekend in August at ë The Maker Sessions: Akron Art Museum, 6:30 pm Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 7:30 - 10pm Crafty Your Creative Business DEVO co-founders Gerald Casale and Mark Enjoy Shakespeare under the stars in the Lagoon August 24 at the Bit Factory, 6 - 9pm Mothersbaugh will screen and discuss area of Stan Hywet. Macbeth will play every The creative geniuses behind Crafty Mart are DEVO music videos. Afterward, Casale and Friday, Saturday and Sunday night throughout hosting a series of entrepreneurial workshops Mothersbaugh will mingle at a wine reception August. Tickets are $15 to $33 and can be for local makers. Experts will share their and autograph signing. The cost is $50 for purchased at ohioshakespearefestival.com. knowledge, resources and advice on various museum members, $65 for non-members.Get topics for developing and promoting a small The Joy of Voting tickets at akronartmuseum.org. è Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka business. Tickets are $20 for one session and Voting is more than just a civic duty. Wandering Now through August 14 at can be purchased at craftymart.org. Aesthetics is looking for submissions for ç The Wet Whistle and Weathervane Playhouse, various times its upcoming “Rest Stop Political Theatre Canvas Experience: On Stage at The candy man can, and you can too. Check í artApalooza Project” that showcases the joys of voting. the Akron Civic Theatre out this timeless sugary classic before time runs August 20 at Boettler Park in Green, The performance will take place in the back August 13 at the Akron Civic Theatre, 6pm out. Tickets are $18 for adults and $14 for 10am - 5pm of a pickup truck in fi ve Akron communities. If you enjoy wine, painting, spoken word, and children under age 18. They can be purchased artApalooza is a juried fi ne art and craft show Submissions should showcase a wide variety music, then be sure to attend The Wet Whistle at weathervaneplayhouse.com. celebrating 12 years. Along with art, there of voices and perspectives about voting, and Canvas Experience with Andre Williams. will be food, entertainment and children’s art democracy and America’s political history, Wet your whistle with wine as you paint a ê Mark Mothersbaugh: Myopia activities. Admission is free. the present and the future. Keep in mind, sunset beachscape, listen to the sound of local Akron Art Museum all submissions will be considered as a musician Kofi Boakye, spoken word with local This is the last month to catch DEVO co-founder PHOTO CREDIT: Willy wonka: credit Weathervane performance piece. They should be short wordsmiths and live painting with Andre Evans. Mark Mothersbaugh’s exhibit at the Akron Playhouse; Craftymart: credit CraftyMart; Devo: credit enough that actors can portray the message Akron Art Museum; Macbeth: credit Stan Hywet; Tickets are $35.00 for the full experience or Art Museum. His collection includes music, Artapalooza: credit Green Arts Council at Boettler Park in two to 10 minutes. People of all ages can submit their writing to [email protected]. 16 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM the arts

MONTHLY EVENTS: MR. EAST AKRON LIVE MUSIC, CARD READERS, POETRY, MASSAGES AND MORE Art Minson, a life of service. no goats by Bronlynn Thurman no glory When you’re driving south down Arlington, you man’s legacy. Minson was an advisor for the Minson passed away in 2005, and from 2010- — may have noticed a large mural of a waving Millennium Fund for Children, a board member 2012, local artist, small business owner and Custom pieces include lighting, older man with the words “Mr. East Akron” of Ohio Citizen Action, volunteered with the art teacher Micah Kraus, along with some area over his head. You may have wondered who East Akron Community House and Akron middle and high school students, constructed wood pieces and metal fabrication Mr. East Akron is and what he did to receive Community Foundation and created a soup the mural to honor this great man. as well as custom jewelry, aprons, such an honor. Well, I did some digging. kitchen and food pantry for St. John’s CME boho-style clothing, gypsy fl ags as Church. He was instrumental in the creation “Iʻve never made a fortune, Art Minson was a man who dedicated his life of the East Akron Development Corporation well as monthly tarot and oracle to helping the east Akron area thrive. For more and when he received the national JCPenney and Iʻll never make one now. reading and massage therapy, than 50 years, Minson volunteered his time and Golden Rule Award along with $10,000, he But it really doesnʻt matter, gave as much as he could to Akron. Having donated the money so that children in a low- acoustic artists and more. because Iʻm happy anyhow. worked at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. for income building could have a playground. — 40 years, he helped create a credit union for As I go along my journey, HOURS: African Americans to help them get home loans As a young man, Minson was a trumpet Iʻm reaping better than Iʻve sowed. Mon-Tues 12-6 * Wed closed after being turned away and became president player. He started his own band called the of the United Rubber Workers. He would often Art Minson Band and played with greats like Iʻm drinking from the saucer, Thurs-Fri Sat 10-6 * Sun 12-4 take trips to D.C. to lobby for civil rights and Duke Ellington and Count Basie. He was also a because my cup has overfl owed.” was a life member of the NAACP. part of the Goodyear Band that played across the country at schools and hospitals during // Bronlynn searches for the stories behind the art. But there’s so much more to this fantastic World War II. Follower her on Twitter and Instagram @_bront_.// NEIGHBORHOOD REBORN Local organizations team up to bring creative fl air to abandoned buildings

photos and words by Bronlynn Thurman

Over the last few months, many Akron porch steps, solar powered security lights, neighborhoods have been getting a bit of creating gardens for neighbors and boarding up Photo courtesy of Shane Wynn a makeover. Local organization East Akron houses set for demolition. Many of the houses Neighborhood Development Corporation that will be torn down no longer look the part. (EANDC) started its preservation board-up Faux windows, shutters and fun images give project earlier this year in which they painted the area’s abandoned houses a creative fl air. boarded up buildings and houses to protect Some could even pass for habitable. Many of the windows. One such building sits near the neighbors sat outside and watched the the corner of Arlington and Lovers Lane with volunteers work or requested services. Many windows painted to look like the sky. were grateful that someone had taken notice and were attempting to help. Although that project has ended, Neighborhood Network University Park, Habitat for Humanity, “The neighborhood needs it...This is just United Way of Summit County, Let’s Grow surreal. It’s great,” said resident Jason Bannister. Akron, Keep Akron Beautiful, the City of Akron and several others have teamed up to give This was a creative way to address a major another East Akron neighborhood some love. problem. Keep an eye out for other volunteer opportunities and check out the website Pictured (top to bottom): Group working on project; (neighborhoodreborn.com) to nominate your Let's Grow Akron working with community; Artist Board Up of a House set for Demolition. neighborhood.

Volunteers gathered in the Middlebury/ // Bronlynn, the elfi n artist, loves seeing Akronites University Park area and spent the day installing volunteering. the arts AKRON TREE PROJECT Artist Michael Marras grows tree from intuition mixed with Rust Belt junk

by M. Sophie Hamad; photos by Svetla Morrison

ince December, every time I’ve driven Marras was also drawn to Akron because of [with the tree] when I got halfway up the trunk, needing to pause the tree project to take on past Hazel Tree Interiors on my way to our abundance of junk. Marras works with and I was walking by it, and I would kick it other projects, so that I could come out of my Sdowntown, I’ve noticed what appeared recycled materials and says he appreciates that, every morning, and it was just not quite stout fi rst public sculpture with business still intact.” to be a metal tree trunk growing into the wall since we’re located in the rust belt, “there are enough for me. So I ripped that all apart and of Hazel Tree. I’d heard rumor of branches to junkyards that you can go to here, and all kinds ended up fi nding a big pipe, and then I actually Marras originally intended to complete the come. And one day they did. of free materials.” went back to the junkyard and got some other project without any funding and just build it big plates of steel and started beefi ng it up a lot as he could. “But we decided against that and The artist behind the Akron Tree Project, Marras says he doesn’t usually plan out what more. So I was a lot happier with it once I was to go with doing the public funding to involve Michael Marras graduated from Full Sail he’ll get from the junkyard. “I like to work able to really kick it as hard as I could, and it other people too, which I think is one of the University with a degree in Computer intuitively, so I like to know the engineering didn’t move, like a real tree.” best parts about it,” says Marras. Animation, and then he worked in the aspects of it—weight, things like that—certain computer animation program within the Fine hardware I need to use—but after I fi gure Marras chose to purchase new steel for the So what’s next for Marras? He’ll be showing Arts department at Full Sail for three years. that out, I like to just kind of let the materials branches, since thin gauge scrap steel is diffi cult his work at Earthquaker Day on August 6 at Michael was working at a computer for 12 build the sculpture themselves. I like to let to fi nd in usable condition. Marras explains, “I EarthQuaker Devices. hours a day, and he thought, “Why can’t I just the sculpture come to life on its own and not had to purchase steel for the branches because make the things I’m modeling—in real life?” strangle it too much with the design.” I wanted it to be extremely lightweight for a lot “I’m excited about that because I haven’t So he got an apprenticeship with sculptor and of reasons—building integrity and safety and shown any work aside from the Art Prize last artist Marcos Cruz and learned how to weld. According to Marras, the Akron Tree Project longevity of the sculpture in general.” year,” says Marras. “I haven’t really shown any is made of approximately 75 percent recycled work lately, and that’s really what I enjoy most, Marras decided to move back to Akron in 2012 materials. The trunk is 100 percent recycled The gap in time between the trunk construction is doing gallery shows and stuff where people because he had a support system here that he materials aside from the nuts and bolts, which and the completion of the project was due to and children can come and experience what I didn’t have in Florida and because he wanted to he bought brand new. Marras’ need to work on other commissioned love doing.” pursue a career as a full time artist. Akron’s low projects in order to keep his business afl oat cost of living and developing art scene made “I was actually able to use an old TV antenna while fi nishing the public sculpture. After that, Marras plans to work on the rewards that a realistic endeavor. tower for the inner structure,” Marras says. for those who funded the Akron Tree Project “I got very lucky—a friend of mine had one “I put in the budget just enough to do this through Kickstarter, and then he plans to begin Marras says, “It’s kind of like the Wild West in his backyard, and I was going to build that project. So there wasn’t that cushion of a a new body of work. as far as the arts scene goes, because you can structure out of fresh steel, but it’s a really old normal public sculpture…there wasn’t that do your thing, and there aren’t a lot of people TV tower from when steel was a lot better...So I personal money put into the budget as much For more information on Michael Marras doing that. So when I asked to do a public was able to use that.” as it normally would be if I was to be hired or and to see some of his work, check out his sculpture, aside from people knowing who I commissioned by somebody or the city or an website, mwmarras.com. was and having art connections in the city…I When Marras had fi nished about half of the organization to do a public sculpture. So aside

think they were more open to it. Like, ‘Yeah, go trunk, he decided to start over. “I like to work in from me wanting to take breaks—and working // Sophie Hamad appreciates artists who choose to ahead and do your thing.’” an intuitive style so that I can…let the sculpture on the same thing for two years can drive you tread lightly on the earth by way of using eco- grow on its own. And that really happened a little crazy—aside from that, it was mainly me conscious materials, such as junkyard treasures.

18 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM the arts

n a hot Saturday afternoon, Kirk Olmstead I could see these ideas beginning to emerge in Owelcomed me into his home in the West a curiously happy fi gure hang-gliding from his Akron neighborhood of Kenmore. His wife and ceiling fan. The wings of the character’s fl ying their two young daughters greeted me inside contraption are cloth and there is a kind of Sky and immediately wanted to show me their Captain and the World of Tomorrow feeling artwork on the walls of their playroom. to this vintage fl yer. It is supposed to be one AKRON of the Wright Brothers, Olmstead tells me, Nearby, Olmstead’s and he has studio is clean, classy plans to make and well organized, the other TREE with mason jars of brother on a various brushes, bike pulling pens and pencils the glider placed in groupings with rotating around his scenery behind PROJECT desk. Even with them with a Artist Michael Marras well-organized mechanism to grows tree from intuition materials, the make these space is anything pieces move in mixed with Rust Belt junk but staid. There tandem. are Sculpy fi gures of quirky characters and by M. Sophie Hamad; photos by Svetla Morrison hand sewn Muppets-esque puppets laying in a Born in Ohio, Olmstead is proud to represent wide-eyed pile in the corner. some of the state’s history, like the Wright Brothers, in his artwork. He sees Ohioans as A large Creature from the Black Lagoon framed a very proud people with that “hard way on movie poster hangs on the wall and somehow purpose” mentality, and knows that culture has fi ts well near Olmstead’s massive Munch-style infl uenced his life and work. painting sitting in the corner. The painting depicts a haunting female fi gure seemingly By day, Olmstead is an employment counselor ignoring a man groveling at her skirts. for refugees at the International Institute of Akron, but he would love one day to make his There is a delightfully creepy and fantastical living via his habit of making. Around Akron, element to most of Olmstead’s work. His you may see Olmstead recharging his creativity characters and fi gures stir up curiosity and story. in one of his two favorite Akron spots, the Among his infl uences are Jim Henson (The downtown Akron Library or the Towpath Trail. Muppets), comic books, Munch and Picasso. He works on impulse, he says, using whatever Looking for his INSIDE THE STUDIO: materials are present or of interest to him, artwork? Perhaps always trying to learn something new. you will see some pieces at the Akron Olmstead’s mediums include watercolor, oil, Art Prize but Kirk Olmstead pen and ink, woodcarving, Sculpy, felt and you can always Blurring the line between art and object more. He is seeking engagement with his fi nd him on viewers, merging art with functionality, adding SummitLive365.com. by C. Birch an educational or interactive component, maybe blurring the line between art and object.

Upcoming Myopia Programs MARK MOTHERSBAUGH SECOND SATURDAY CURATOR GALLERY LAST LOOK PARTY: WE ARE NOT MEN TALK: A CLOSER LOOK AT MYOPIA August 20 • 2 pm • Free concert August 13 • 1:30 pm DOWNTOWN@DUSK: EXCLUSIVE MEET & GREET: MARK 15 60 75 THE NUMBERS BAND MOTHERSBAUGH & GERALD CASALE August 18 • 6:30 • Free concert August 13 • 6:30 pm* MYOPIA DOWNTOWN@DUSK: HALF CLEVELAND FILM SCORING EVENT: THE INSTRUCTOR August 25 • 6:30 pm • Free concert August 18 • 9 pm • Free *purchase tickets at AkronArtMuseum.org

Through August 28, 2016 Akron Art Museum & MOCA Cleveland

One South High I Akron, OH 44308 I AkronArtMuseum.org

AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / THE Devil Strip | 19 the arts

ART BOMB BRIGADE

“CleanCOMPLETES & Bright” stops tra ITS c at Downtown FIRST Laundromat MURAL

by Michelle DeShon

rt Bomb Brigade completed its fi rst some rejuvenation. We literally bomb a place project revolves around her thesis which is project, a vivid mural that spans over that was not expecting it, has not asked for about arts in the public sector and she hopes A3,000 square feet on the Downtown it, and we call them up and say, ‘How would that this mural brings a “glimmer of joy” to Laundromat on South Main Street. Elisa you like to have your business overtaken with people’s day. Gargarella, Art Bomb Brigade director and arts awesomeness?’” education professor at The University of Akron, “I only work with local businesses so I do hope was awarded $45,000 as one of the winners of The creative team consists of fi ne art students to infuse some energy and culture into the the Knight Arts Challenge. from The University of Akron, high school local business, so it goes back into the city,” students from Akron Public Schools, and an Gargarella says. She hopes that residents can Gargarella says the Art Bomb Brigade’s mission artist that serves as a guide for the students. appreciate an original piece of artwork right is to “implement murals in a very, very warp- Art Bomb Brigade has joined forces with Arts in their city and that her students carry on the speed fashion in neighborhoods that we LIFT, another public arts program created by responsibility to engage their communities in identify as really in need of a facelift and Gargarella about 15 years ago that uses the creative ways and that “they understand how work of high school students and a lead artist. a little creative spark can create a massive change.” Pictured left: The Art Bomb Brigade left their signatures on the mural as a fi nal touch; A different view of the Gargarella has almost met her match for her unveiling party from behind some of the booths with the $45,000 grant. At the unveiling party, Art Bomb “Clean & Bright” mural as a colorful backdrop. (Photo courtesy of Michelle DeShon / The Devil Strip) Brigade sold t-shirts, tote bags, handmade books and temporary tattoos of Matt’s artwork. The program is funded from the Lola Isroff All proceeds went back to Art Bomb Brigade. Foundation through The University of Akron. Each of Art Bomb Brigade’s projects will be Gargarella hopes the art Art Bomb Brigade uniquely different, Gargarella added. The creates will encourage other campaigns for projects will always be different because they more public art projects. When choosing an will be based on the needs of the local business artist to lead the group, Gargarella looks for owner, the artist that they partner with, and someone whose work will inspire the students the team of students that will “mural bomb” and whose personality is positive, upbeat and Akron. energetic. For this project, she chose Matt Miller, local artist and alumni of The University The biggest challenge that Gargarella has faced of Akron’s Myers School of Art. is not having a sustainable income to support what she is trying to accomplish with her After much discussion between Gargarella, non-profi t program. She suggests future grant Miller and the business owner, the chosen winners fi nd partnerships within the community design stemmed from the concept laid out by and use existing assets in the community, such the business owner, as using buildings as and then they worked canvases, to create a bigger impact. Adele Roth, Deputy One of her favorite Planning Director for Economic Development, parts of creating spoke at the unveiling public art is witnessing party. (Michelle DeShon the “staying power” / The Devil Strip) of the art. She loves when it blows up on together to fi ne social media and how tune it. Miller says they become a place of he put a lot of “Akron-centric imagery” into th gathering. She says people still come to Akron Opening August 19 the design, including local species of plants and to take pictures in front of the Angel Falls mural Mike Birbiglia teams up with Keegan- animals and cogs and gears to represent the Michael Key for a genuinely moving and and that was completed about four years ago industrial days of Akron. The creative team also laugh-out-loud funny look at life in a by her Arts LIFT program. comedy troupe. wanted a color palette that “stopped traffi c,” Miller says. To donate to Art Bomb DON’T THINK TWICE Brigade, text artbomb Directed by Mike Birbiglia Their work has been stopping traffi c, says to 71777 and click the Wilma Levengood, a student in The University link to a secure website of Akron’s Arts Administration Graduate where you can choose Program. how much to donate. Gargarella’s goal is to SHOWTIMES AT 30 N HIGH ST “I see joy in their eyes whenever they are just raise $2,016 in 2016. AKRON HISTORIC ARTS DISTRICT looking at this and are just either amazed NIGHTLIGHTCINEMA.COM NEAR CRAVE, URBAN EATS, & NUEVO // Michelle DeShon is an aspiring journalist with an by just how massive it is or how much color unhealthy obsession with antique cameras, french fries it brings in the area,” Levengood says. This and vinyl records.

20 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM the arts The Special Collections Division of the Akron-Summit County Public Library and the Summit County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society Present: Our Ancestors from Europe: How to Discover Their Individual Stories Featuring John Philip Colletta, Ph.D.

// Photo of Jordyn Sharp by Sarah M. Koester // Photo of Jordyn Saturday, August 27, 2016 9:30 am– 4 pm Main Library Auditorium, 60 South High Street, Akron, OH 44326

Sessions: For more • Passenger Arrival Records, information or to Colonial Times to Mid-20th register for this Century free program, • Naturalization Records, Colonial contact the Creative Devils Special Collections Times to Mid-20th Century JORDYN SHARP Division: • Re-discovering “La Famiglia:” 330-643-9030, by Sarah M. Koester Accessing and Using the Records speccollections@ of Italy akronlibrary.org. • Discovering the

I met with Jordyn Sharp in cartoon characters REAL Stories of Your Akron-Summit County her high school’s art room from memory and Immigrant Ancestors Public Library where she was helping make them look complete this year’s senior like tracings. I asked www.akronlibrary.org mural: a Leprechaun about her attraction sliding down a rainbow to animation and to pots of gold. This was she said, “I don’t an obvious fi t for her now like drawing realistic alma mater, St. Vincent- things. If I try to draw We Get You ... St. Mary High School. a real person and it doesn’t look like them, I’ve known Sharp for I wouldn’t want them about a year and her to be offended.” parents for even longer, but she was still reserved Her high school usually and introverted; a girl has an art show every after my own heart. We year, but this year it was exchanged nervous “hellos” and she handed cancelled. Sharp and a few of her classmates me her portfolio. Her work spoke for itself. decided to put on a show of their own. After getting approval from the principal, the Inspired by music, television and social media, students had their show in the school library, Sharp recreates cultural icons with freehand and Sharp was able to put her work on display. pencil drawings. Having been making art since she was a child, Sharp never took a formal class Despite her incredible talent, Jordyn has no until her sophomore year. While showing me interest in pursuing a career in art. It’s a hobby drawings of girls she created inspired by posts and an escape for her. She will be attending © Sigrid Olsson / Alamy on Tumblr, Sharp said, “I like drawing girls’ long Stark State in the fall with hopes of earning a hair because it’s fun. It’s easy. I don’t have to degree in Early Childhood Education. • Where you want to go - think. I just draw lines. I hate drawing eyes, so with TripTik® Travel Planner I either give them sunglasses, make their eyes maps and directions closed, or cut off their heads.” • What you want to know - with hotel, discount and gas As she continued to describe her work to me, price information it was clear that she didn’t realize the amount of talent she possessed. She repeated to me • Help along the way - many times that she draws because it’s easy. with easy road service request As a person who can’t trace her hand without messing it up, I assured her that what she can do is not a task many would call easy. Our apps keep you mobile. Download today. I was particularly taken by her ability to draw

AAA.com/mobile AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE the arts

NEW CIVIC COMMONS OPENS FOR PUBLIC USE AT (Photo courtesy of Svetla Morrison/The Devil Strip) THE AKRON ART MUSEUM Or, Where To Go Picnicking on Your Next Lunch Break

by M. Sophie Hamad

Next time I’m walking around downtown and Museum in 2007, the garden was part of that sculpture garden,” said Caruso. “It would be Association and Akron Garden Club, and past get the urge to do somersaults across a large plan. But when it came time for construction, a space for events, a space for people to just president of the Western Reserve Academy/ grassy area, I know where I’ll be headed: the they decided they would have to delay it. come and hang out and enjoy downtown, and Pioneer Women. She has also helped with Bud and Susie Rogers Garden. That is, the new The completion of the Bud and Susie Rogers hopefully it will enrich downtown Akron. We’ve financial campaigns for the Boys and Girls Clubs civic commons next to the Akron Art Museum. Garden, then, is the completion of that plan. seen a lot of activity in downtown—there’s and United Way. been a sort of a renaissance, at least in the According to my son, one can do 18 Originally, the museum had a courtyard interest of downtown.” In 2007, Bud and Susie received the H. Peter somersaults from one end of the green to the sculpture garden that went away with the Burg Community Leadership Award from the other. He discovered this while I was grooving creation of the new building. At first, the plan Bud and Susie Rogers are much beloved, Red Cross, Summit County Chapter. In 2008, to sounds of Shivering Timbers at the Grand was to create a similar garden, but after a long-time Akron philanthropists. The former they received the Bert A. Polsky Humanitarian Opening Celebration on July 16. series of conversations with local community president and chief executive of the B.W. Award. Both are past recipients of the United members and museum staff and the board, a Rogers Co., Bud Rogers has volunteered with Way's Distinguished Service Award. The week before the Grand Opening new plan emerged for a space that would be and served as board president of the American Celebration for the garden, I toured the new more engaging and more of a public space Red Cross, Boys and Girls Clubs of the Western Rick Rogers was president of the board of the space with the museum’s Design, Marketing downtown. Reserve, Sumner on Ridgewood and the United Akron Art Museum when the museum broke and Communications Coordinator, Dominic Way of Summit County. ground in 2004 for the celebrated John S. and Caruso. Over the clamoring and hammering “They came up with this idea for the Bud and James L. Knight Building. Alita Rogers currently sounds of final construction, Caruso explained Susie Rogers Garden, which would be a place Susie Rogers is an emeritus member of the serves on the board of the Akron Art Museum how the space came to be. where people could have art experiences, board of governors for Akron Golf Charities, and is Secretary of the Board. and there could be temporary art and maybe past board president of the Junior League When planning began for the new Akron Art even permanent art, but it wouldn’t be just a of Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park (continued on page 45)

Soak up a memorable experience with your family! Come say “bon voyage” to our Journey to the Reef exhibit before it swims away.

YOU’VE NEVER BEEN THIS CLOSE!

akronzoo.org

22 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM 24 LOOKING FOR YOUR COMMUNITY? CHECK OUT THESE EVENTS

27 WHAT’S THAT GIANT BLACK SLUG ON THE HORIZON? community & culture 29 A DAY IN AND AROUND MONROE CULTURE CLUB FALLS METRO PARK

THE GRAND EXCHANGE

In the wake of startling fatal shootings both by and of police offi cers, community activists at The Grand Exchange organized an open conversation among some of Akron's concerned black and white residents. (Photo credit: Svetla Morrison)

Soak up a memorable experience with your family! Come say “bon voyage” to our Journey to the Reef exhibit before it swims away.

YOU’VE NEVER BEEN THIS CLOSE! akronzoo.org Community & culture ç community events

August 12, 6 - 9pm An overview of community events happening Thirsty Dog Brewing Co. in Akron this August On Friday, August 12, Child Guidance & Family by Amanda Sedlak-Hevener Solutions (CG&FS) will host its seventh annual “Growing Up Akron” fundraiser. If you have attended the event in the past, you know this ‹ Monday Yoga alongside the Ohio and Erie Canal in this isn’t your typical fundraiser. So leave the tux at August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 at joint effort by the Summit County Historical home. Pick up some Akron attire from Rubber PNC Center, 5:15 pm Society and the Summit Metro Parks. The hike City Clothing to wear to the event—mention Enjoy a stress relieving after work yoga session starts at Lock 3 and ends at the Main Street Growing Up Akron and they will donate a at PNC Center. Tracie from Akron Yoga and farmers market. ê portion of the sale to CG&FS. Wellness will lead you through the many poses of Vinyasa yoga in this hour-long workout. é Hamburger Festival Roxxymoron is back to take the stage again Don’t forget to dress accordingly and bring your August 13 - 14 at Lock 3 Park, this year, and rock the brewery with their own yoga mat! Noon – 11pm and Noon – 7pm music. Food offerings include Swenson's The 11th annual Hamburger Festival has more è Drive In Restaurants, Mustard Seed Market & å Summer Read Aboard Program than just a wide variety of hamburgers from Cafe, Nuevo Modern Mexican & Tequila Bar, August 4, 11 at local restaurants – it also has entertainment for Retro Dog, Old Carolina Barbecue Company, Akron Northside Station, 10:50 am the whole family. There are activities for kids, Diamond Deli, Ivan's Catering, Difeo & Sons, Introduce your children to reading and trains live music, the National Hamburger Festival Tangier Event & Entertainment Center, Gino's at the same time. The Summer Read Aboard Queen Pageant, eating contests, craft beer Pizza, Hilton Garden Inn Akron, Bake at Program features a trip on the Cuyahoga Valley tastings and much more. (Photo courtesy of 350 Bakery, LLC, A&W, Ken Stewart's Grille, Scenic Railroad for both children and their National Hamburger Festiva) Mayfi eld Road Creamery, Shearer's Potato parents. Kids can enjoy story time, a snack, arts Chips and Snacks, Mary Coyle Ice Cream and and crafts, and a scavenger hunt, while parents ‹ Herbal Spa Treatments NORKA Beverage. Rubber City Rollergirls, sit back and enjoy the scenery as the train travels August 14 at F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, Mystery Grab Bags, a Chinese auction and through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. 2 – 2:30pm other special attractions will add to the fun. (Photo courtesy of Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad) Learn how to make everything from sugar scrubs to relaxing salves using all-natural Growing Up Akron is a destination for ç Summer Safari ingredients and items from your backyard é celebrating our community. Whether you August 5 at Akron Zoo, 7 - 10pm garden and kitchen cabinets. “grew up Akron” or not, there is no better way Bid on art created by the zoo animals, enjoy to spend a summer evening. Visit cgfsevents. live music, and raise funds for the Akron Zoo all ‹ Art Tales: org or call (330) 384-2882 to puchase tickets at the same time. Summer Safari is the Akron Messages in the Mailbox and/or view other sponsorship opportunities Zoo’s annual fundraiser, and tickets include August 18 at Akron Akron Art Museum, if you would like to support CG&FS while admission to the event, a catered dinner, and 11:15am – 12:30pm promoting your business or organization. close up encounters with some of the zoo This event for kids and their parents consists Tickets must be purchased by August 8. Event animals. (Photo courtesy of Akron Zoo) of an interactive story, complete with imagery, is 21 and older. rhyming and songs. After story time has ‹ Farm to Table History Hike ended, there will be an arts and crafts session // Growing up Akron logo courtesy of Child Guidance August 12 at Lock 3 Park, 9 – 11am in the lobby of the Akron Arts Museum for å & Family Solution Learn about 19th century trade while hiking participants. (continued on page 45)

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24 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM community & culture

Stage Your Favorite Tribute Bands

Gates open at 6 p.m. Concerts start at 7 p.m. JUL 29 Almost Queen The Ultimate Queen Experience with Chris Allen & The Guilty Hearts Daniel Horrigan, Mayor AUG 5 Atomic Punks A Tribute to Early Van Halen with The Michael Weber Show AUG 12 Captain Fantastic The Elton John Legacy with Mo’ Mojo AUG 19 Space Oddity David Brighton’s Tribute to David Bowie with Angie Haze Project AUG 26 ZOSO The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience with Joe Vitale Jr. Band SEP 2 The Machine Performs Pink Floyd with G-Force Why Is It Called Indian Trail? AUG 13th – 14th 11th Annual National by Amanda Sedlak-Hevsener AUG 6 CHANGES IN LATITUDES Hamburger Festival A Tribute to Jimmy Buffet with The JiMiller Band The Kenmore neighborhood of Akron is Summit County with an Outline Sketch of Ohio in Downtown Akron AUG 20 WHO’S BAD hamburgerfestival.com located on the southwestern edge of the city, described the movements of the Delaware and Admission $5 A Tribute to Michael Jackson with Umoja Nation bordered by Barberton. Many of the streets Iroquois tribes and how they used to portage AUG 13 Fleetwood Mix A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac AUG 27 THE PRINCE EXPERIENCE with Rachel Roberts & The Ryan Humbert Band in this neighborhood have unusual names, (a term meaning “to pick up your boat and Tribute to Prince with The Twistoffs AUG 14 including Indian Trail. This particular street runs physically move it from one body of water to Gaetano’s Underworld Blues Band and The Stingers from east to west, from East Avenue (ironically, another”) around the bodies of water in what on the western end) to 6th Street. is now southern Akron. One of these portage Wednesdays 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. paths was to the west of Summit Lake, not far Discover blues and jazz According to a 1915 plat map of the area, from modern-day Indian Trail. beats on the banks of the Ohio-Erie Canal in the at that time, Indian Trail was named Portage heart of Akron. Trail. When Kenmore became a part of Akron There are other streets and businesses in Akron with Horns AUG 3 Rooster Jones in 1928, many of the streets were renamed in named after this practice as well, including & Things AUG 10 The Rhythm Syndicate order prevent confusion and avoid duplication. the aforementioned Portage Trail, plus Portage Admission $10 AUG 17 Jan Marie and AZ #1 It’s likely that the name of Indian Trail changed Path, Portage Country Club, and even Portage AUG 24 Ernie Krivada All Star Quartet Paid Concerts: Gates open at 6 pm. No pre-sale. AUG 31 at this time, most likely because of the Path Behavioral Health. However, there is only Tickets sold at gates, cash only. Concerts start at 7 p.m. Skip Gibson and Finesse other Portage Trail, which runs from Akron’s one street in Akron named Indian Trail. Merriman Valley up through Cuyahoga Falls. Wireless for All. // Amanda Sedlak-Hevener is a local historian and a graduate student at the University of Akron. The original name – Portage Trail – relates back to the Native Americans that called this Pictured above: The intersection of Indian Trail and area home, long before the settlers moved in. 16th Street. (Photo courtesy of Amanda Sedlak- Hevener/The Devil Strip) William Henry Perrin’s 1881 book History of

County residents, and the fee only applies to out-of-county residents who want to receive their rewards. First-time participants receive Community a bike-sized license plate and sticker after completing fi ve of the designated trail sections between July 1st and August 31st of this year. Returning participants receive a completion sticker. For more information, go to bikingspree. August 5-6 NewsAn overview of community Brief news in Akron summitmetroparks.org. (Photo courtesy of Summit Glendale Cemetery by Amanda Sedlak-Hevener Metro Park)

Quit Smoking with Help From Akron General Starting on August 23rd, August 12-13 Akron General Hospital will Goodyear Metro Park host a series of smoking cessation classes, set up in Remember to Pass On the Left conjunction with the Tobacco The Summit Metro Parks’ Summer Biking Spree Treatment Specialists. There are seven classes in Performances at 8:45 P.M. is underway, and they want to remind every all, starting on Tuesday, the 23rd and running participant to follow proper trail etiquette. This through Tuesday, September 27th, with one www.akrondancefestival.org involves passing slower bikers on the left only, additional class on September 15th for those Interactive children’s programs by The University of Akron obeying all traffi c signals and signs, remaining who need extra reinforcement or can’t make it courteous to everyone on the trail, and pulling to one of the other Tuesday sessions. Dance Institute at 7:45 P.M. over to the right– or off the trail entirely – when FREE ADMISSION stopping. Trail etiquette exists to keep everyone Akron General Hospital’s program is based on safe and to ensure that all participants have a the the American Lung Association’s Freedom Enjoy The Akron Symphony on Sunday August 7 at Glendale Cemetery and good time. from Smoking program. Each class will meet in Cardiac Classroom 1544 of the Akron General Sunday August 14 at Goodyear Metro Park. Concerts start at 7:30 P.M. The Summer Biking Spree is free to all Summit (continued on page 45) FREE ADMISSION

AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE

HP_4.876x6.5_DevilStrip.August.indd 1 6/20/16 12:04 PM community & Culture R FA M SMALL BUSINESS CHRONICLES 2016 91.3 FM RADIO "THE SUMMIT" F L E A by Rick Bohan STARTS ENDS AKRON10AM FARMMKT & 2PMFLEA: JOIN US ON THESE DATES! JUNE 12 JULY 10 AUG 14 SEPT 11 Located at Urban Eats / 51 E. Market St. hen I grew up in the South, every small Wtown had its own radio station that New Sunday Market Vibes broadcast local news and events and a music TAKING HOLD DOWNTOWN playlist that was developed by someone who lived right there in town (other than Casey words by Liz Tyran; photos by Kevin Richards Kasem’s Weekly Top 40, of course). In 1983, 50 companies owned 90% of the nation’s The Akron Farm & Flea Market has taken off media outlets. In 2011, just six companies this year! The fi rst two markets received great owned 90% of the media outlets and 80% of attendance as well as great reviews from the radio stations in the country broadcast the vendors and attendees alike. What’s new this same playlist. All to say, few industries have year? LOTS. Not only did the market become become more homogenized than commercial a registered non-profi t for its efforts to create radio. Against that tidal wave of mediocrity wholesome community-oriented activity in stand many college stations of low to medium an historic area of downtown Akron, but it power and a few stations, like 91.3 FM, that partnered with Countryside Conservancy and depend only on the local community for “The Summit is all about regionalism. In a world received support from the Knight Foundation. funding and listeners. where satellite and web media offer listeners more options than ever before, localism can The upcoming August 14th market will be a along with other neighborhood shops like Ely Tommy Bruno, Executive Director and General be a core competitive strength of radio. Here vintage fashion themed market with live models Road and Rubber City Clothing, not to mention Manager of The Summit, tells us, “The surge at The Summit, building strong connections donning trendy vintage wear from several local the art museum and library across the street of broadcasting, Internet radio, streaming to our local audiences has been a driving boutiques. Merchandise will be for sale along with ongoing programming and activities. The media, not to mention the aging strategy for well over a decade, and with all the antique, vintage, farm and fl ea art museum’s new garden will be open to stroll of the baby boomers, have all has fueled particularly strong items from the great stock of existing Farm & through, and the Nightlight even has a 3:30 rapidly changed the future membership and listener growth Flea vendors. showing of Phantom Boy that guests can plan of radio.” over that period.” to take in if they stay downtown. That’s the Visitors can expect to hear a different sound point, after all: to see downtown during a new Asked about the strategy Highlighting local and wave of live local music at each market as time with new eyes. The Summit uses to reach emerging artists is a central well as a change up of special guests, themes, local listeners, Bruno replies, part of The Summit’s strategy. workshops, games and more. No two market Akron Farm & Flea Market “We target local listeners by Bruno explains, “The station is a days will be the same. Musica’s bar and the Aug. 14th and Sept. 1st taking risks in curating brand showcase for local, national, Urban Eats Cafe will be open each market day 51 E. Market St. outside of Musica new music, supporting regional artists, and international musicians, and Free parking in the library deck on High St. nonprofi ts organizations, and cultivating a more particularly for emerging artists who would akronfarmandfl ea.com vibrant community at large. In fact, we here at otherwise be less likely to include a market also follow on fb and instagram for updates. The Summit have been instrumental in creating like Akron, Canton or Youngstown on their a receptive audience for live music in Northeast national tours.” Ohio. The Summit puts a strong emphasis on community based programming. Programs Identifying and meeting the needs of like KidJam! Radio and Rock and Recovery comparatively small but active and loyal local are aimed at specifi c important listening communities is at the heart of The Summit’s communities. Both have won local, regional, strategy. Bruno is clear on this and statewide awards.” (continued on page 44)

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26 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM community & culture Akron HERstory: Edith Terry Bremer By Ilenia Pezzaniti

Alright, HERstory followers, we’re gonna throw New York in conjunction with the YMCA. in a celebrity shot—which, if you haven't played This was the fi rst institution that focused beer pong before, means we’re bringing in on the protection of rights for newly arrived a non-participating player to make a shot. In and second generation immigrant girls and HERstory language, that means this month’s women. It offered recreational services, English feature is on a woman who isn’t an Akronite, classes, employment assistance, housing, and but she did make a huge impact on Akron citizenship services. Most of the social workers Historical Akron and therefore deserves recognition. Because involved were immigrants themselves. They women. Because Akron. taught, visited, counseled, and did Blimp City: The Goodyear Airdock casework for the women. by Katie Jackson As the International Institute of Akron celebrates it’s Edith opened the 100th birthday this year, it International Institute A giant black slug on the horizon of Route 224 1,175 feet long, 325 feet wide, 221 feet high, is people like Edith Terry because she believed holds a mysterious history which is as essentially and is supported by 13 enormous steel arches. Bremer we should thank. that immigrants should Akron as the hum that used to fi ll the sky from This equates to around 364,000 square feet, Edith was a main player preserve and share their it’s former resident. or an area larger than 8 football fi elds. At each in the movement toward cultural background, the end of the building there are two semi-spherical creating institutions for premise of the existence The Goodyear Airdock was built in 1929 by doors which roll on wheels and specially immigrant rights. of the institution itself, Detroit architect Albert Kahn. Completed at a designed railroad tracks, allowing the structure and the idea of cultural cost of $2.2 million, it was the largest building to open and close. Weighing in at 600 tons Edith was born in Hamilton, pluralism. The idea was that in the world without an interior support each, they require their own power system New York on October 9th, 1885. She cultural pluralism, among other structure. The Goodyear Zeppelin Corporation and are fastened closed with hollow pins that studied the rights of women in industrial work benefi ts, would serve as a transitional tool as commissioned the building for development measure 17 inches in diameter. In 1980 the places at the Chicago School of Civics and well as culturally diversify the area. Not only did and construction of lighter-than-air dirigibles. Goodyear Airdock was designated a Historical Philanthropy. After she graduated, Edith started immigrants benefi t, but so did those already The fi rst two airships to be constructed at the Civil Engineering Landmark by the American to advocate for the rights of immigrant women. living in the area. Something we see happening site were the USS Akron in 1931, and its sister Society for Civil Engineers. Edith thought immigrant women were ignored in real-time here, in Akron. ship, USS Macon in 1933. When World War and poorly cared for by the immigrant agencies. II broke out, the building was used for airship The Airdock is so vast and large that it literally She saw the concentration to be solely on men. Over fi fty International Institutes were created, production and storage. After the Navy’s ZPG- is a building with it’s own weather system. Yes, She wanted to change that. including ours. In 1950, Edith visited the 3W was constructed in 1960, marking the last you read that right. Rumor has it that with just Institute in Akron. According to The Akron airship to be built in the Airdock, the space was the right humidity and temperature change, Throughout her career, Edith was a researcher Beacon Journal at that time, she was happy used as the photographic division of Goodyear condensation occurs to mimic a rain storm for the Chicago Women’s Trade Union League, with what she saw and praised the Institute for Aerospace Corporation. within the building. And that’s not it’s only Chicago Juvenile Court, and served as a special its “tremendous vitality.” odd association. agent for The United States Immigration In 1987 military contractor the Loral Commission. In 1927, she was awarded the White Corporation purchased Goodyear Aerospace, If you buy into conspiracy theories, the Lion by President Thomas G. Masaryk of and by proxy, the Goodyear Airdock. When the Goodyear Airdock has plenty of it’s own, In 1910, Edith, then the national fi eld Czechoslovakia for her immigrant welfare work. Loral Corporation was purchased by Lockheed particularly due to its military contractor secretary for the National Board of the Young Edith continued to lobby for immigrant rights Martin in 1996, the Goodyear Airdock became ownership. Several times over the course of the Women’s Christian Association (YMCA), until she passed away of cancer in 1964. a part of their campus. past two decades there have been fi res opened the fi rst International Institute in *A special thank you to Chris Horne for suggesting dear Edith. The building’s unique shape measures in at (continued on page 45)

SUMMER SPECIALS

AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / THE Devil Strip | 27 community & culture

'You Can't Do it On Your Own" BMe leader spotlight: DaMareo Cooper uses $10,000 award to fund projects at The W.O.M.B. words and photos by M. Sophie Hamad

aMareo Cooper is on a mission to who’ve been through about hard work. And what happened to

improve the lives of regular, everyday trauma, violent trauma, Pictured above: me was, you know, I was like everybody else. DOhioans. But he can’t do it on his own. violent crimes. Where DaMareo Cooper (fourth I ended up thinking I was gonna be a drug Luckily, he doesn’t have to. do you go, even if from the left) with dealer, or, like, trying to be a drug dealer—I you’re an activist? I volunteers from AOC wasn’t very good at it. I just wasn’t. I was too Cooper is the Organizing Director of Ohio consider activists and and The W.O.M.B. nice, you know? Like, I would take somebody’s

Organizing Collaborative (OOC), a collaboration organizers kind of like Pictured left: The TV out of their house and then, like, take it of 17 organizations around the state. OOC gluttons for pain. We W.O.M.B.’s community back.” works toward social justice for everyone, and feel a lot. It’s hard to garden, located across E. their primary focus is on issues of economic be an activist if you Market St. from Cooper got into some trouble, and then spent justice and criminal justice reform. OOC don’t feel a lot. So The their offi ce. three and a half years in the Marine Corps. organized and ran the statewide Ban the Box W.O.M.B. kind of acts When he returned to Akron, he started going initiative to get the Ohio Fair Hiring Act passed as that space.” paycheck to keep the to college at the University of Akron, and then in 2015. lights on, to keep transferred to Kent. From The W.O.M.B., the internet going “We knew people weren’t able to get jobs— AOC does voter to make sure there’s “I started school as a psych major because I once you check that box you’re not getting that registration, holds toilet paper,” says was trying to fi gure out what was wrong with job. I don’t care who you might be or what you community meetings Cooper. The BMe my family. Why was everybody in prison? There did or what the felony is, you check that box, and trainings and leadership trainings and award is the fi rst funding that’s come from an must be something mentally wrong with my you’re not getting that job,” says Cooper. teaches organizing strategies. Last year AOC outside source. They don’t receive any funding family,” Cooper says. registered 8,000 people to vote in the city of from any foundations. Cooper is also Executive Director of The Way Akron. This year they plan to register 12,000. But then he began to learn about the journey of Mind and Body (The W.O.M.B.), which “I actually won the award, but I’m not and history and struggle of African people in houses OOC’s Akron chapter, Akron Organizing Cooper is one of the founding members of unilaterally making decisions about what America. “The thirteenth amendment doesn’t Collaborative (AOC). The W.O.M.B.. When he received the $10,000 happens with the money—that’s not how we necessarily abolish slavery,” says Cooper. “The award from BMe, he decided to use the money operate,” says Cooper. “We want to use the thirteenth amendment basically says, when “We don’t have enough healing spaces for toward projects they need funded. money to do a chess program and build a street you’re convicted of a crime you can basically people in the city of Akron,” says Cooper. “We mentor program, but also to have a studio— become a slave again.” Cooper changed his have not done a good job of creating social “We fund The W.O.M.B. with about 6 or 7 I’ve got people who are donating studio major to Pan-African studies, with a minor in spaces and healing spaces, particularly for folks people giving their money, pieces of their own equipment—so we can teach young people to Anthropology. Before long, he was President of make music.” the Black United Students Organization.

“We want to teach young people about “When I graduated from college, I was like, you democracy…and teach them chess so we know, I got this Pan-African Studies degree. can start developing critical thinking skills,” I’m going to be poor, but I’m going to be a says Cooper, “at the same time giving them poor righteous teacher. I’m going to be a poor something they want and enjoy like making person for the community. I’m going to work beats and records and albums.” on building my community,” Cooper says.

Cooper is from Elizabeth Park, and he is After a brief stint in Tulsa, Oklahoma with the passionate about helping people in his Association of Community Organizations for community because of his own past. When Reform Now (ACORN), Cooper was offered Cooper was young, there was a time when all the job as Organizing Director for OOC of his uncles were incarcerated. in Youngstown, where the fi rst branch of OOC started as Mahoning Valley Organizing “I was in a single-parent household—my mom Collaborative. was an amazing woman. Like, she just pulled lifesourceyoga.com • 330.835.9945 us out of the projects, and taught me so much (continued on page 29)

28 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM community & culture

(continued from page 28) Then, when Cooper’s mother died in 2009, he came back to Akron to fi nish raising his younger cousins whom his mother had been raising, and who were 12 and 13 years old. He had promised his mother he’d help them fi nish high school. While he was home grieving, he got a call from his friend from college asking him to help open up The W.O.M.B., which used to be a boxing gym. Cooper threw himself into building The W.O.M.B..

“Our vision is to have a city where folks who are directly impacted by the problems have say-so around the solutions to those problems,” says Cooper. “We want people to have power in the city of Akron. And not just folks who have money or folks who have a lot of relationships, but bringing together the folks who have not been invested in the last 35 years An Evening in Munroe Falls Metro Park to help fi nd answers to the problems together. words and photos by Grace Ebner It’s about engaging people, building authentic relationships, and moving our community forward.” For this month’s park excursion, I chose to hike grass lot. In this lot is a headstone, marked the Meadow Trail, located in the Tallmadge “Rest in Peace / Unknown Skeletal Remains / Feeling inspired yet? Meadows Area of Munroe Falls Metro Park. Summit County, Ohio.” This headstone came as A fl at loop of two miles, this trail takes hikers a surprise to me. Despite having hiked this trail “We need help!” Cooper says. “We could use through shaded woods during the fi rst half, many times, I had never wandered into this part help in any way. If you have a skill, a trade, a while the latter half of the trail meanders of the park before. But all it took was a short checkbook, some time, whatever you’ve got, through the sunny meadow. The wildfl owers walk to return back to the trail bordered with come down and give. And if it’s just time, give are just starting to bloom this time of year, wildfl owers as tall as my shoulders. us an hour a month, at least just an hour a making the course especially scenic. This trail month. Because I know if you give an hour a also has an interesting feature: it leads to a Immediately after my hike, I stopped by month, and you see what you’re doing, you’re small cemetery. Near the start of the trail, the Cornerstone Market, which is located right going to be like, ‘I like being here.’” path splits off to an open across the trail on the other side of the street. Feeling hungry for a meal after my hike in Outside of the market were several large bins the sun, I then headed out to El Tren Grill for fi lled with giant watermelons, along with dinner. The Mexican restaurant is located along hanging fl owerpots for sale. Inside, the quaint Tallmadge Circle, just a ten-minute drive from and colorful store boasted displays of fresh the metro park. I ordered their vegetarian breads and produce, including tropical dragon fajitas. The service was fast, the staff friendly The W.O.M.B. is located at 915 E. Market fruit and liliko’i. and the restaurant was clean and bright. It was St. in Akron. Look for them on Facebook as a delicious end to my evening in the park. Pictured above: The wildfl owers that border the The W.O.M.B., or fi nd them on the web at Meadow Trail near Monroe Park. Pictured left: A wayofmindandbody.org. tombstone marks unknown skeletal remains. // Grace Ebner scored an astounding eight points total Pictured right: Fresh fruit at Cornerstone Market. during her eighth grade basketball season.

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AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / THE Devil Strip | 29 community & culture The Trouble with Old People Zombies in Orthopedic Shoes

column by Steven Van Auken; illustration by Paul Hoffman

When did zombies enter the national There is a Silver Sneakers plan that pays the people broadcasting the zombie consciousness? No one knows for sure. They full cost of gym memberships for many of my shows know a cultural phenomenon didn't cross the frozen Delaware with General friends. (These friends of mine are the reason when they see one. Young people Washington. They weren't there to chase Teddy that they have chairs in yoga studios.) Is there sense that they live under threat. Roosevelt up San Juan Hill. They didn't lurch a Wornout Sneakers program that grants a their way across Europe after D-Day, and no discount to a strapped young mom or dad who That threat is the financial one so far has linked them to the attempted might like to stay in shape? What do you think? demands of their parents assassination of President Reagan. So why and grandparents. Zombies now? Why do they stretch their putrefying arms I think that here is where the zombie hoards symbolize this. Do you suppose toward us in the past couple of decades? lunge into the picture. Who is watching these that it is a coincidence that shows about young people besieged by gangs the weird way of walking We do know this. The rise of the zombie of lifeless fiends who do not have the good that zombies have looks exactly like coincides almost exactly with the advent of the manners to die and stay that way? Who feels the way we seniors walk two months after senior discount at multi-plex theaters. compelled to watch them drain the lifeblood of our joint replacement surgery? And those the young, productive members of society? perpetually outstretched zombie arms: what Old people like myself are awash in offers of could look more like me and my peers after we Their representatives will question why it is financial assistance. They come from perfect It is young people themselves who are watching have (yet again) misplaced our glasses? What that AARP has millions of members who have strangers. I walk up to a movie ticket counter these shows and young people who keep do the zombie hordes really seek as they try to no hesitation in demanding more and more and I say, "I am old." The nice young lady writing them. It is because they have a vague, sink their recessed-gum teeth into a random financial favors, even for those seniors who thanks me for my service at Gettysburg (we horrifying feeling of being under attack from young person? My guess is, fiber. don't need them. Maybe someday there will oldsters love to complain about the fact that decrepit old people. There used to be five be an equally powerful American Association young people aren't taught history in the workers, on average, to provide for every Shows about zombies are not likely to go away of Young, Kind of Annoyed and Financially- schools anymore), and gives me a discount. person on social security. Soon it is estimated anytime soon. They speak too powerfully at Stressed Persons. My meal is discounted in some restaurants. My there will be two. These over-worked young a subconscious level to the fact that young medical bills are comped by Medicare. Nobody people will have to get up pretty early in the people feel burdened by the politically In the meantime, keep on the move. It's the asks if I need the help, I just get it. Of course morning and stay at work until late, to take powerful demands of oldsters. At some point best way to avoid us zombies. this means that others (and here I refer to you) care of me and my cohort in the manner to it seems likely that younger people will rise have to pay more to make up the difference. which we have become accustomed. The up and gain political strength of their own. The Grand Exchange: A Place for the Common Good Live @ A place to collaborate, create and (ex)change! Lock 4 Photo credit: Ilenia Pezzaniti

30 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM 33 BUTTER YOUR NUTS

34 WHAT'S NEW IN FAIRLAWN Food & Drink 36 BARCRAWLER AKRON FOOD SCENE

ANGEL FALLS COFFEE COMPANY Brews Up Love In Every Cup

by Lia Pietrolungo

rom perfectly brewed coffee to waterfall in Venezuela. “It was a logical dreamy gourmet hot chocolate, move to fi nd inspiration from a country that FAngel Falls Coffee Company serves produces coffees but has incredible natural up a drink menu guaranteed to tickle wonders,” says Oletta, who was born in In the Kitchen with even the most fi ckle of tastebuds. Caracas, Venezuela. Owners Rafael Oletta and Jim King are Chef Brian Meeker passionately committed to providing Photo courtesy of Angel Falls Coffee Company the Akron community with high-quality (Facebook Page) beverages, food, and a cozy, inviting environment of friendly faces. Oletta and King are committed to keeping Interview by Lia Pietrolungo Akronites caffeinated with their shade- Photos by Charles Von Upon walking into Angel Falls, one is grown, fair trade, USDA organic and greeted by homey furniture, warm, Rainforest Alliance coffees. They also offer From the age of sixteen, Brian Meeker has wood-paneled walls covered in LP’s 45 different loose leaf teas. spent countless hours in kitchens, learning and and local artwork, and the enticing honing in on his talents as a chef. Recently we aroma of brewing coffee. The eclectic Taught by Oletta, manager Zak Waryas roasts spoke about his approach to cooking, and his art lining the Angel Falls walls was all of their beans in-house -- a practice that famous gluten free, vegan banana nut bread collected over many years of art sets them apart from most coffee shops with chocolate chips. showings. Oletta and King create in Akron. themes from Oletta’s collection of THE DEVIL STRIP: From what I witnessed in about 6,000 LP records and display them In the era of Starbucks, Angel Falls still the kitchen, you seem to be a very lively and on rotation as well. This combination of business and take advantage of the popularity thrives in the heart of Highland Square. “We passionate chef. Tell me a little more about sensory details creates a comforting home away that coffee had in the West Coast,” Oletta went the opposite way in the way Starbucks your experience while cooking: from home feel. says of their business venture. Twenty years marketed their product,” says Oletta of their BRIAN MEEKER: The fi rst [thing] that comes later, Angel Falls has remained a successful coffees, “Starbucks is renown[ed] for very dark, to mind that simply relates and conveys my Before opening up Angel Falls Coffee Co., neighborhood gem. bitter coffees ( a trend in the West Coast). To experience is the book/fi lm, "Like Water King and Oletta worked in corporate in San me it was undrinkable so I decided to Roast (continued on page 34) Francisco. “We decided to be in the coffee Angel Falls is named for the 3,212 ft tall (continued on page 46)

AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / THE Devil Strip | 31 food & drink

Runningby Marilyn the Icsman Pass Hey, Akron. Yeah, you- hi there. FOOD FESTIVALS and Ohio Brewing Co., as well as Great Lakes, We are thrilled to announce the birth of our new Market Garden, Lager Heads, Moerlein and baby! The name is Trifecta- a fully customizable, Mt. Carmel. The event also includes meet-and- single cup air infusion brewing system; JUST greets with several brewery representatives BEAUTIFUL; came in at 41 pounds, 10oz and 24” long. and a few select brews from around the Mom & baby are doing great. country will also be served, like Big Eddy Royal Nektar, Wicked Ram IPA, Fireman’s Brew and It’s a very nuanced single cup brewer; months of Horny Goat. More info at facebook.com/ experimentation & we have tweaked (& re-tweaked) events/1786095151602342 (& re-tweaked) EVERY ASPECT of each particular coffee’s brew cycle based on that specific bean’s unique characteristics. The National Hamburger Festival returns August 13-14 to celebrate Akron's (somewhat GRIDIRON It’s a prodigy; brings out inherent subtleties, leaving dubious but still fun) claim as the birthplace behind the rest… while NEVER TOUCHING a paper of the hamburger. Enjoy some of the best filter. Every origin, every roast level- is completely burgers, fries and more from the best and customized, and every cup is brewed to order. brightest culinary minds around. There'll be plenty to do all weekend like burger-eating With a majority of alternative single cup methods all competitions, live music, family friendly fun and brews begin with the same baseline; but hey- it’s a pop-up vendors like Dropkick Apparel. For more CROP- each harvest is different. The ‘art’ was information, check out hamburgerfestival.com extensive testing, tasting, scrapping it & starting over until it was perfect. The ‘science’: we stored The longtime Buffalo Wild Wings on the each profile for the same, consistent, amazing cup… University of Akron’s campus has offi cially Every. Single. Time. closed and reopened as Gridiron after lawsuits between the owners and the Buffalo Wild The most pure, honest cup of- yes, any origin we Wings corporation. The owners of the former carry; YOUR selection, not ours. We’re CRAZY BW-3, the Bord family, have operated the enthusiastic about the quality of the cup, and quite restaurant for 25 years. Now, with $100,000 certain you’ll understand why. worth of renovations under their belt, the Bords have opened Gridiron and introduced a new So… Stop in during the second week of August menu and appearance for the popular campus and try one on for size- and enjoy it for the price spot. The restaurant and bar, in addition to of your usual Joe. This year's installment of the Nat'l Hamburger having a new food vendor, also includes new Festival brings with it the fi rst ever Buckeye painting and seating, as well as University of We’re convinced YOU’LL be convinced, and then Brewfest at Lock 3 on Sunday, Aug. 14. It's Akron sports decorations. Though business everyone will be convinced, and happy and excited. free with admission to the burger fest, which has been slower than usual, the owners and And convinced. Thanks again, from the bottom of gives you the chance to sample dozens of manager hope that increased traffi c once our cups. beers from more than 10 Ohio-based brewers the school year begins will help Gridiron including Akron's own Thirsty Dog Brewing Co. build popularity. -Your friendly, sassy, always well-meaning ND crew.

-CA ON NT R O K N A Name: Dan Flowers Name: Michael Wilson Favorite place to eat: I Favorite place to eat: like to ride the Foodbank Bricco (Dwntn Akron) share bike down to the Dia- Go-to dish: mond Deli to see my friends F Southwest Salad O K Chuck and Brett. OD B A N Go-to dish: My favorite item on Name: Jessica Robb the menu is the Here's The Beef sand- Favorite place to eat: wich, a delightful full-bodied meat fest on rye Taqueria La Loma dripping with homemade coleslaw, mayo, and Go-to dish: Tacos al Pastor melted swiss. For dessert, top it off with their made fresh chocolate brownie with mild custom Name: Katie Carver Reed creamy frosting. Oh my. Favorite place to eat: Nepali Kitchen Go-to dish: It’s hard to pick just one favorite Name: Shelly Hinton dish, but I’ll go with the Chat Pattey! Favorite place to eat: Gasoline Alley Go-to dish: I think it is a hidden gem with Name: Weston Lott ) friendly staff and a broad variety of burgers, deli Favorite place to eat: Crave sandwiches, salads and pizza- but you can’t go Go-to dish: BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich with wrong with the pizza! rosemary fries www.nervousdog.com WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM food & drink

aparnie’s OFFERS HEALTHY OPTIONS FOR public NORTHEAST OHIOANS by Hillary Martter house

he health and organic food markets in larger cities. It is even more rewarding that started in Cleveland, but recently was able to are booming in Akron lately. A Whole innovators like Boling are bringing their visions make the move to Akron with the help of Julie TFoods is set to take the place where to life so that consumers can feel confi dent in Costell of Ms. Julie’s Kitchen. Elegantly Casual West Side Market once stood. Drive a little their food choices for their families. Dining featuring farther down Market Street and you’ll pass Boling’s unique production process requires Modern Twists on Earthfare, Mustardseed, and Robeks. It’s clear Having spent many years in powerlifting and stone grinders rather than traditional metal Your Favorite that non-GMO products, sustainable foods, and bodybuilding, Boling was constantly aware of processors, which were not available to him healthfood items are in demand. the quality of his foods and what he ate to fuel in the Akron area until now. Boling’s unique Comfort Foods and his body: “Nut butters were a staple in my diet process ensures that vital nutrients are not lost Classic Cocktails Enter Butter Your Nuts: a formerly Cleveland- as a source of healthy fats... trying to fi nd ones while processing the nuts. Research led him to based nut butter company that has relocated that are high quality without a lot of added the slow, enriching process of stone grinding -- 1682 W. Market St to Akron. Butter Your Nuts strives “to promote sugars, oils, and preservatives was very diffi cult,” a method utilized by olive oil and fi ne chocolate at Westgate Plaza health and wellness through high-quality and he recalls. From that need for variety and companies as well. in Akron great-tasting 100% natural nut butters.” healthy options, he created Butter Your Nuts. 330-867-0154 Owner and operator Brad Boling explains his Pictured above: Cheeky nut butter knife. Pricture involvement in every step of their very unique right: The variety of nut butters available at Butter Open 7 days a week process: “I designed all of our logos, labels, do Your Nuts. All photos courtesy of Brad Boling. 11:00am-2:30am all of the marketing, fi ll and seal jars by hand, apply labels by hand, [I build] and maintain the Boling was born in Akron but moved away as website/store...It has saved so much money a child. He returned to attend The University [and] we were able to use that money in the of Akron. Boling explains, “I always wanted TRY ONE OF OUR more vital operations side of the business.” This to be an Akron-based company. I love the has allowed for Butter Your Nuts to expand into city of Akron so much and it has a lot to offer Butter Your Nuts peanut, espresso peanut WESTGATE PLAZA the successful and still-growing business that it in terms of arts, entertainment, culture and and almond butters are available online at is today. entrepreneurship. The only problem was trying butteryournuts.com, at Ritzman RESTAURANTS! to fi nd a licensed facility to produce our product pharmacies throughout Northeast Ohio, at As Akronites, many of us desire access to great in since we did not have the money to build our local farmers’ markets, and even in several products normally reserved for larger stores own production facility.” Butter Your Nuts was local gyms.

If you’re planning to head down to Lock 4 for the Third Thursday Live @ Lock 4 Live at Lock 4 event on August 18, you might be wondering what’s on the menu. Food Trucks Here’s who’ll be serving up some tasty treats:

(Photo courtesy of Manna Food Truck) Akron’s Home The Manna Truck of the All Day offers a variety of foods Breakfast for every taste, from featuring a Asian to Italian. Their slogan, “feeding the rich The Southern Thangs Grub Truck serves The Fawaky Burst food truck provides Bloody Mary to feed the poor,” refl ects up “food with twang” and features Southern- health, tasty juices and smoothies. Fawaky, Menu, Mimosas the truck’s founding as a inspired favorites like Po Boys with selection of which means fruit in Arabic, was chosen as the and much more... partnership with a hand-battered side dishes, including gator bites truck’s name because of owner Muhammad workforce reentry and deep fried deviled eggs. The truck also Edwards’ commitment to using quality fruit in 1688 W. Market St program. Sponsored by has a kid’s menu and an enticing dessert menu order to make the best juices possible. Fawaky at Westgate Plaza the Lutheran with items such as their fried bacon sundae and Burst also offers customizable detox juices and Metropolitan Ministry of Cleveland, the truck caramel apple taco. This truck is the perfect an array of healthy food options. Menu items in Akron provides culinary training and jobs to formerly way for anyone to “get their grub on” with include juices like Peach Mango and Raspberry incarcerated men and women in the area. A a homemade Southern meal. (Photo courtesy of Lemonade, alongside foods like the Fawaky 330-867-1114 portion of the truck’s proceeds are used by Southern Thangs Grub Truck) Rice Bowl, which contains a salad served in a Open 7 days a week Bethel to feed the homeless throughout pineapple and loaded with fruits and veggies. 6:30am-3:00pm northeast Ohio. (Photo courtesy of Fawaky Burst) Sundays 8:00am-3:00pm AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE food & drink

(continued from page 31) -- a lot of trial and error. Especially through the From Chocolate"...meaning love can be and is transition from non-vegan to vegan and again communicated through food when love when I switched from wheat fl our to gluten- is present. free fl our.

TDS: How does your background as a surrealist TDS: What is your favorite dish to prepare? artist spill over into your cooking & time spent BM: I've always been a fan of making soups, in the kitchen? so I'd say [Angel Falls’] soups, which I change BM: As in making a piece of visual art, I remain up seasonally. We always have two soups, one open and intuitive to my approach. I realize of which I make vegan for the vegan folks. My sometimes that whatever it is I'm working on favorite and I'd say from how much I make has a voice of it's own and if I fail to listen to during the fall and winter is my fl aming hot what it wants to be on its own terms then vegan chili. And, of course my vegan gluten- generally the outcome won't be born as it free banana nut bread w/choc chips. ought be. Listening is key.

Brian with his famous gluten free, vegan banana nut bread with chocolate chips. Photo by Charles Von

TDS: What is the most challenging part of being in the kitchen, and how do you work with/around/overcome that challenge? BM: Biggest challenge is time constraints...my shift is 6 hours, half of which is lunch...I end up multi-taking so much as once, I bounce and curse way way around the kitchen like someone who's possessed! Ha!

TDS: Your banana bread is most divine! How long did it take for you to come up with the perfect recipe? What was your recipe formation process like? Lunch at Angel Falls Coffee Co. is served BM: The original recipe came from my aunt Mon.-Sat. 11am-2pm Kathy. I loved her nut bread as a kid, so I got her recipe. I can be incredibly nontraditional, especially when making food. [I’m] not sure how long it took to get from my aunt's recipe // Recently, Lia has taken to making pies of all sorts. to me blowing it up to what it is now with Her cat, Heathcliff, has taken to knocking them off of the chocolate chips and spices -- maybe a 10 the counter while trying to sneak a nibble. year plus experiment recipe-forming process Behind the Bar JESSICA FUESTON Pub Bricco, from Cuyahoga Falls currently living in Akron

What was your fi rst night Where do you go when tending bar like? Bartending you’re not at work? is very different form serving The Merchant Tavern, Moe’s so I was nervous. Be or Mustard Seed. confi dent and if you don’t know what something Do you have a is go in the back and signature or favorite google it! drink you like to make? My favorite drinks happens Best tip you ever received? to be my favorite to make I don’t think I’ve ever received too, and we offer it at Bricco. an excessive tip. It’s a delicious and potent little cocktail my coworkers having lovingly dubbed Good or bad, what is the one thing you Jess’s lemonade. Muddle half a lemon in a pint wouldn’t have known if you weren’t a glass, fi ll with ice, add Tito’s vodka with water, bartender? I’m very lucky to have built strong shake and strain onto fresh ice. relationships through bartending. Without this job I wouldn’t have had an opportunity to // words and photo by Sam DePaul, a born Akronite, leads a double life as a bartender and aspiring personal know so many great people. essayist/screenwriter. When not drinking craft beer or working, you can probably catch her joyously holding up a stranger’s day in public by petting their dog.

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The Wanderer New and in Fairlawn

words and photos by Holly Brown

New! Shiny! Hype! Maybe it’s the exclamation points that have drawn you into yet another trip down food lane with yours truly, but, I think we can all agree that the hype surrounding a new restaurant is hard to ignore, especially when the sparkling newness comes with an already sterling reputation.

In the last month, two Cleveland originals have well, it wasn’t greasy made their way to Fairlawn (because Akron is and didn’t fall apart as soon as I the best but that’s besides the point…or is it bit into it. The soft sweet of the mango with the whole point?!): Bomba Tacos & Rum and the jicama crunch was perfect, but beyond Melt Bar & Grilled. everything, the jalapeno remoulade stole that taco. It was creamy, spicy, so delicious- perfect Tacos. Rum. Grilled Cheese. Beer. There’s really with the fi sh. not much more a girl like me can ask for. Second (if you are a seasoned follower you may First on my list of destinations was Bomba, have already guessed): the pork al pastor. I go because what goes better with a 90 degree day crazy for tacos al pastor. I get them every time in July than a mojito? I’ll tell you, not much. I see them. At Bomba, the addition of pickled onions and pickled jalapenos gives a subtle Because I am constantly cultivating a charmed vinegar tang to the pineapple slaw. Just as in food life, I promptly ordered their July Drink of the case of the crispy fi sh, the balsamic aioli the Month -- a watermelon basil mojito -- and sauce really brought everything home. proceeded to work as hard as possible to nurse NUEVO MODERN MEXICAN it for the rest of the evening. It was so welcome Frankly, I don’t believe my cheese quota this and refreshing after a relentlessly sunny day issue has been met. Lucky for all of us, that’s & TEQUILA BAR that I had the urge to fi nish it all in under a exclusively all I’ll be talking about from here on RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED FOR SEATING BUT minute, but I was good at refraining for once. out. Ready? Break. ADVENTURESOME TASTE BUDS REQUIRED FOR DINING Though I did not refrain from also indulging in Ryan’s Rum Punch, Bomba’s staple drink. I hadn’t eaten for seven hours before I went to  Melt. That doesn’t sound like a long time, but My mom LOVES margaritas and it's all she wanted for her birthday, so I made a plan to fl y Easily the highlight of the menu for me is the it certainly was for me. Hot damn, I was craving in from New York and surprise her. While searching for a more upscale sort of venue (it was craft-your-own guacamole option, not only those sandwiches. I wanted to go into this her 60th birthday), this came up. I asked around and most of my home-friends had not because it is a stellar idea, but also because shindig ready for battle. If I was going down been here yet, so I rolled the dice. the add-on ingredients are just so damn eating, I was certainly taking some melted mouthwatering- even without the prospect of cheese with me. The venue was SO nice and accommodating to our large group and made the event go guac! After much strategizing and deliberation, very well. They set up the bar area for us, we ordered apps and drinks and eventually we settled on chipotle honey, spicy peppers, With a Corona in hand (it felt right for the heat, food. They let us bring in a cake from outside and everything. I was really, really impressed and queso fresco. We certainly accomplished but Melt has a pretty extensive and impressive with the level of hospitality we received. the hot jelly vibe we were aiming for. Shout out beer selection with many craft brews) it felt to the plantain chips included in the medley of wrong to not get an appetizer, despite the The menu was GREAT for Akron, I really enjoyed the goat cheese guacamole and the queso guacamole vehicles. They were my favorite. impending monster grilled cheeses soon to dip. I had ceviche for my meal, which was a HUGE helping for $10 and really fresh and be ours. made well. I had MANY margaritas, all of which I loved, but the raspberry and fi g one was When it came time for tacos, we each ordered the best. Everyone had a great time and I'm sure many people will be back. Also, they three (pictured above) with the intent of trying Our little party asked our server, “What’s your had a gluten free menu, which was great because several people in our group have food all of them. Of the six, I have carefully narrowed favorite appetizer on the menu?” With little allergies, so everyone got what they wanted. down my favorite two: to no hesitation, she responded, “Mac and Cheese Bites.” It was a done deal. 54 East Mill St. Akron 44308 First, the crispy fi sh. The fi sh itself was fried (continued on page 36) (330) 762-8000 nuevomodmex.com Hours: M-Th 11-10, F 11-11, Sat 3-11 AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE food & drink

've lived in Akron for 25 years now. I have seen quite a bit of urban One problem: I'm as nostalgic as they come. I love old buildings, cars, renewal during this time. I've seen business after business close and bars, people, music, movies… just about anything but old food and old Ieven more pop up, which is a decent rate of progress if you're not news. A new car smell gives me a headache and drywall gives me the from Bejing. The progress in downtown Akron, UA, Highland Square, willies. I think I've made my point. I don't mind positive change, but and the zoo (to name a few) has been quite remarkable. Now the area when they tear down Lou and Hi's (awesome Jewish deli that used to be by the Goodyear Headquarters is following suit, as I hope other areas across the street from Ken Stewart's) and put up a CVS??!! Well, you are will. Seeing the city I love come alive again makes me proud to be gonna piss off a lot of the locals. I still hear people talk about that place an Akronite. and none of them are happy that it's gone.

Christy’s Bar Eldorado’s Pizza Fire and Ice Bar Jack's Happy K.C.’s Dugout and Grille and Sports Bar and Grill Landing 1317 E. Archwood Ave. 561 S. Seiberling St. 3071 Albrecht Ave. 1941 Triplett Blvd. 641 Massillon Rd. 330-724-4187 330-733-6004 330-628-6868 234-678-6172 330-733-9269

Southeast Akron. You can AREA IN AKRON Southeast Ellet Southeast Akron smell the blimp hangar Southeast Akron from here. Rebuilt in 2006 after a bad ESTABLISHED 2006 2014 2013 fi re, but its original location 1997 dates back decades. It’s always happy-hour. They HAPPY HOUR 3-7pm 3-9pm Always 5-7pm sell liquor twenty-one hours a day. Wow! BIGGEST SELLERS Bud Lt. / Crown Royal Craft Beers/ Cuervo 1800 Bud Lt./ Jack Daniels Bud / Fireball Bud. Lt. / Korski Vodka BEER/LIQUOR

ENTERTAINMENT Karaoke / Pool / Darts Darts Bands / D.J.s / Karaoke Karaoke / Pool Pool / Darts

Full Menu from diner FOOD Bar Menu Full Menu Full Menu Full Menu with Breakfast next door

Joe’s Endzone / The Sideline A dentist o ce / Lawson’s / PREVIOUSLY Whitehouse Chicken New Building Treat’s Bar / Dee’s Place / Tip Top Dairy Mart

Dale Earnhardt meets CELEBRITY Melissa McCarthy meets The Boss (That’s Bruce Alec Baldwin meets David Allan Coe meets Sissy Billy Bob Thornton meets PERSONALITY Chumlee Springsteen to you rookies Paul Rodgers Spacek Lilly Tomlin out there.) K? K.

Driving a cab in the 90s, I This is one of the few places picked up an inebriated older left that caters to the third This place has been slinging woman there who wanted a You can see both the Rubber shifters working in that neck drinks under di erent names This a huge, huge upgrade to ride to Wendy's ...and more. COMMENTS Bowl and the blimp hangar of the woods. If New York for decades. If these walls what it was previously. Dodging her advances, she from here. is the city that never sleeps, could talk… was cool until I turned down Akron is the city that sleeps the cheeseburger. Then she three hours a day. cried all the way home.

(continued from page 35) to do: snuggle the mac and fry that whole thing. Dust it in “Bites” may be the biggest understatement cheese into a solid formation the tiniest amount of powdered of the year. The glorious hunks of deep fried while providing both richness sugar. Serve it with a berry mac and cheese (pictured below) that were and texture to the mac. It preserves dipping sauce. presented to us were anything but bite sized. purely enhanced and all was Affectionately described as “cake slices” by a right in the world. This thing was massive. I’m friend who could not have been more right, talking both halves stacked on these things were equal parts massive and Deciding on one grilled top of each other were easily massively delicious. cheese was agonizing. I half a foot tall, probably taller. I was pleasantly can’t tell you how many Spoiler alert: I could only make it surprised by the different scenarios of cheesy through half. Was I disappointed lightness of the goodness played out in my head. I will tell you, in myself? A wee bit. But did I still feel human fried exterior. It it was a game time decision, and that decision when I left? Yes. didn’t weigh the was spot on: The Big Popper (pictured above). “bites” down but The tang of cheddar, the rich cream cheese, rather did what Let me lay this out: thick slices of bread, herb and the crisp spice of the jalapenos was it was supposed cream cheese, cheddar, fresh jalapenos. Deep everything you love about jalapeno poppers

WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM food & Drink

When those poor decision makers decided to tear down Benito's jazz In southeast Akron there are bars that still cater to third shift factory ʼS ANK PLAC club in the Falls, people cried. Lots of them. It was the oldest bar in workers by serving breakfast at 6am. This olden day, commonplace R E Summit County until it was razed. It was a wonderful place that should practice used to be a way of life for thousands. Ever had a power lunch? F have been saved. Let's just say the price we pay for progress can How about trying a power breakfast, tough guy? "I'll have the #4 sunny- sometimes be a little too steep. side up, wheat toast, Busch in a can with a short glass and in about 15 minutes, can you bring me a shot of Jack Daniels?" Now that's what I Now the good news: East Akron. Luckily, the area has not yet been call Rust Belt living! targeted by this city's visionaries and developers. It is old bar/dive bar heaven! Pubs have changed their generations, but not their decor. Go check these places out. They'll make you feel like that 'woodpecker Pardon my randomness, but do you remember when that guy found that guy'. It's a terrifi c feeling. Trust me. decades gone Ivory-billed Woodpecker in Arkansas a few years back? Stop in and meet Tara and Hannah No? Well it was kinda big news. He must have a felt the same exact way Ch rs and enjoy responsibly, the newest members of our team that I did when I walked in to Randy's Moonbeam, K.C.'s Dugout or Leslie Shirley Nielson "The Bar Crawler" Shirley's Tavern. Try our new menu items Christy’s Bar Eldorado’s Pizza Fire and Ice Bar Jack's Happy K.C.’s Dugout Manny’s Ellet Park Hall Randy’s Shirley's Tavern Tiny Tavern Zodiac Bar and Grille and Grille and Sports Bar and Grill Landing 1317 E. Archwood Ave. Sports Bar 3124 Forrest Park Blvd. Moonbeam Cafe 3074 Albrecht Ave. 2783 Albrecht Ave. 1955 Triplett Blvd. Mondays 561 S. Seiberling St. 3071 Albrecht Ave. 1941 Triplett Blvd. 641 Massillon Rd. 330-724-4187 650 Canton Rd. 330-628-9007 979 Kelly Ave./234-334-4913 They accept collect telegrams No Phone No Phone 330-733-6004 330-628-6868 234-678-6172 330-733-9269 330-733-3242 * Dive Bar Pick * Dive Bar Pick * Dive Bar Pick CuSTomer APPreciATion niGHT� Buy One Drink, Get One 9:00 p.m. until midnight Compliments of TPH Productions Southeast Akron. You can $1.75 Pint Special AREA IN AKRON Southeast Ellet Southeast Akron smell the blimp hangar Southeast Akron Ellet Park Hall Southeast Akron Ellet Ellet Southeast Akron $5.50 Burgers from here. Rebuilt in 2006 after a bad DJ Larry starts at 9 pm 1999 bar dates back to the 2013, but has been a bar ESTABLISHED 2006 2014 2013 fi re, but its original location 1997 1980s 1932 1936 1952 early 30’s since the 50’s with early trivia dates back decades. It’s always happy-hour. They HAPPY HOUR 3-7pm 3-9pm Always 5-7pm sell liquor twenty-one hours a 4-6pm 2-6pm 5-8pm 5-9pm 3-7pm Tuesdays day. Wow! Taco Nights BIGGEST SELLERS Busch / Bud Lt. / Crown Royal Craft Beers/ Cuervo 1800 Bud Lt./ Jack Daniels Bud / Fireball Bud. Lt. / Korski Vodka Busch / Crown Royal Bud Lt. / Jameson Bud / 3-Olives Busch / Crown Royal Bud Lt. / Crown Royal $1.50 to $3.00 BEER/LIQUOR Windsor Black Cherry Drink Specials Available Pool/ Corn Hole/ ENTERTAINMENT Karaoke / Pool / Darts Darts Bands / D.J.s / Karaoke Karaoke / Pool Pool / Darts Karaoke/ Pool Pool / Darts / Karaoke Pool / Bowling Machine Pool Karaoke / Pool / Darts Storytelling Wednesdays They have these little cans of Full Menu from diner You’ll be drinking your FOOD Bar Menu Full Menu Full Menu Full Menu with Breakfast No food Chef-Boyardee behind the Bar Menu Bar Menu Chef Todd’s Food Specials next door dinner here bar for sale. True story!

A chicken coop next to a truck Joe’s Endzone / The Sideline A dentist o ce / Lawson’s / Ellet Bar / Matado / Spud’s Frida & Curly’s. Bar itself Trees, grass, weeds and The Bing / Viki’s Bar / Thursdays PREVIOUSLY Whitehouse Chicken New Building Treat’s Bar / Dee’s Place stop and bed & breakfast. No, I Tiny's Tavern / Tip Top Dairy Mart Lounge dates back to the 40’s wildlife Akron Rubber Bowl am not making this shit up. $4 Burgers (dine-in only) Dale Earnhardt meets Vince Neil meets Joan CELEBRITY Melissa McCarthy meets The Boss (That’s Bruce Alec Baldwin meets David Allan Coe meets Sissy Billy Bob Thornton meets Gilda Radner meets Phil Anselmo meets Drew Carey meets Tommy Lee Jones meets Jesco White meets Jett with a splash of Peter Chumlee Springsteen to you rookies Paul Rodgers Spacek Lilly Tomlin Doug Dieken Minnie Pearl Roy Clark June Carter-Cash Carrie Fisher PERSONALITY Fonda out there.) K? K. Fridays May be the oldest bar in 12oz Strip Steak $12.00 Driving a cab in the 90s, I I had no clue this place This is one of the few places Akron still under the same picked up an inebriated older existed until locals pointed left that caters to the third Place has an old school feel name. It's about the size Right across the street from This place has been slinging woman there who wanted a me there. Love it. Stuck You can see both the Rubber shifters working in that neck for sure. Wish I could go As long as you don’t bring of a chicken coop. Guess it the airport. The perfect Saturdays drinks under di erent names This a huge, huge upgrade to ride to Wendy's ...and more. in time for 80 years, it’s This place is bigger than you COMMENTS Bowl and the blimp hangar of the woods. If New York back in time and watch a any attitude into this place, could fi t 500 chickens or place to get tanked before for decades. If these walls what it was previously. Dodging her advances, she nothing fancy but time would think. Check Out Our from here. is the city that never sleeps, Tribe game here in black you should be just fi ne. about 40 humans — maybe hopping in your plane and could talk… was cool until I turned down machines are rare and Akron is the city that sleeps and white. 50 when it fi rst opened. fl ying yourself home. the cheeseburger. Then she probably really expensive, Live Music Schedule three hours a day. People were smaller back cried all the way home. so this is your next best bet. then. Sundays in sandwich form! Once again, the deep fry was remarkably light. I Karaoke hosted by Natalie had my doubts about the berry dipping sauce, but damn, the good (Now 9:00 to 1:00) people of Melt know what they’re doing. Not too spicy and not too $0.60 Wings (dine-in only) sweet, this sandwich was exactly the right call. Super Power Hour

Special shout-outs go to: the Fried Green Tomato BLT and the From Open - 8:00 P.M. Smokey Russian. Tried, will try again. $3.50 Well Drinks $3.50 Bud Light Drafts 3900 Medina Road Sun-Thurs: 11am – 10pm Fri-Sat 11am – 11pm Adopt-a-bar HAPPY Hour K.C.'s Pub Monday - Friday Until 8pm Location: Southeast • Address: 1305 E. Archwood Ave. Mon - Fri open at 2pm This place was never a Tiki Bar, but Akron needs one. So, would one 3921 Medina Road Sat & Sun open at 12:30 of you please borrow some money from your parents and do this? everyday 11am – 10pm Please? I’ll spend tons of dough there. I promise! 549 W Market St, Akron Phone: (330) 376-8307 AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE 1 Mile Family Fun Walk Break the Cycle Join us for Break the Cycle, a celebration Joinof recovery, us for Break prevention the Cycle and ,awareness. a celebration of recovery, prevention and awareness. When: Friday, September 30, 2016 When: Friday, September 30, 2016 When: Friday,5:30 p.m. September kickoff, walk 30, 2016at 6 p.m. Where:5:30 p.m. kickoff, walk at 6 p.m. Where: Lock 3 Park Where: Lock200 S. 3 MainPark Street 200Akron, S. MainOhio Street44308 Akron, Ohio 44308 Help conquer addiction one step at a time HelpVisit commhealthcenter.org/walk conquer addiction one step to atregister. a time Visit commhealthcenter.org/walk to register.

A WhiteSpace Pro-Bono Creative Marathon 2016 Project A WhiteSpace Pro-Bono Creative Marathon 2016 Project A WhiteSpace Pro-Bono Creative Marathon 2016 Project

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15CRE003_PrintAd_vs2.indd 1 7/15/16 4:53 PM 40 SHAKE YOUR BOOTY AT ONE OF OUR MUSIC EVENT PICKS

41 WHAT ARE THEY LISTENING TO?

44 IN MY DAY, WE HAD ENTIRE Music & entertainment STORES FULL OF VIDEOS... THE MUSIC SCENE

Big Jul Green guitarist Rufus Jones IV on stage for Live at Lock 4 (Photo credit: Ilenia Pezzaniti) 1 Mile Family Fun Walk Break the Cycle Join us for Break the Cycle, a celebration ofJoin recovery, us for Break prevention the Cycle and ,awareness. a celebration of recovery, prevention and awareness. When: Friday, September 30, 2016 When: Friday, September 30, 2016 When: 5:30Friday, p.m. September kickoff, walk 30, 2016at 6 p.m. Where:5:30 p.m. kickoff, walk at 6 p.m. Where: Lock 3 Park Where: 200Lock S. 3 MainPark Street Akron,200 S. MainOhio Street44308 Akron, Ohio 44308 Help conquer addiction one step at a time VisitHelp commhealthcenter.org/walk conquer addiction one step to atregister. a time Visit commhealthcenter.org/walk to register.

A WhiteSpace Pro-Bono Creative Marathon 2016 Project A WhiteSpace Pro-Bono Creative Marathon 2016 Project A WhiteSpace Pro-Bono Creative Marathon 2016 Project

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15CRE003_PrintAd_vs2.indd 1 7/15/16 4:53 PM music & Entertainment

è Stems, Punch Drunk Tagalongs, one will be turned away from lack of funds. through each song, with lyrics that sound like MA HOLOS private journal pages and sweet guitar chords Friday, Aug. 5 at Thursday’s Lounge, 9 pm Akron Songwriters Festival that evoke those moments alone in a room, Grab fi ve bucks and get yourself over to Presents Joe Vitale Jr., Chris Allen, experimenting and workshopping material Thursday’s on an “off night” to experience Bob Robb without judgment or pressure. Admission is $5. three of the most exciting bands that have Thursday, Aug. 11 at emerged in the local scene. Punch Drunk Akron Civic Theatre, 8 pm é Ben Nichols (of Lucero) Tagalongs — featured more in depth in this As part of the Akron Civic Theatre’s special four- Friday, Aug. 19 at Musica, 8 pm very issue — join moody rockers Stems and day songwriting workshop, the venue will host Spanish for “bright star,” Memphis-based Cleveland’s psych/garage quartet Ma Holos for local songwriters Joe Vitale Jr., Chris Allen and Lucero made a splash in the early 2000s for a night of loud, gritty tunes that embody the Bob Robb as both instructors and performers their unique blend of country and punk rock. spirit of true rock ‘n’ roll. at a special evening event dubbed The Akron The band’s singer and guitarist, Ben Nichols, has Songwriters Festival's Local Songwriters in the made a name for himself in the last few years EarthQuaker Day Round cabaret. Vitale Jr. has been a fi xture as a solo artist with honest, passionate tunes Saturday, Aug. 6 at in the local classic and modern rock scenes that showcase his signature gravelly vocals EarthQuaker Devices, 1 pm for the past decade, while Robb has worked and unabashedly forthright lyrics. Nichols’ solo Akron-based guitar pedal company, as an accomplished session musician and debut, “The Last Pale Light in the West,” was EarthQuaker Devices, has skyrocketed not only performer of original material. Allen is known released as a highly inspired concept album, in our neck of the woods, but on a global scale as the frontman for Cleveland alt-rock band with songs mirroring themes from Cormac å as well. The company’s success comes from Rosavelt, whose four albums garnered much McCarthy’s novel “Blood Meridian.” Hear songs the innovative nature and high quality of its critical acclaim in the late ‘90s. Tickets for the from the album, and others, performed live on equipment, along with support of musicians performances cost $15 and are available at the Aug. 19. Tickets can be purchased in advance local and beyond. Celebrate the company’s Civic Theatre box offi ce. at Urban Eats, Square Records or at TicketWeb

triumphs at its new location, 350 W. Bowery for $15. Under 21 and day-of tickets pay extra. St., with a full day of shop tours, clinics, Akron Songwriters Festival contests and, of course, live music. Bands Presents Steve Bogard, Danielle è The Juke Hounds, performing from 3 pm into the evening are: Howle, Jamie Floyd Diana Chittester Stems, Co_Conspirator, Emotional Support Pigs, Friday, Aug. 12 at Akron Civic Theatre, 8 pm Saturday, Aug. 20 at Doom Christ, Actual Form, Lisa Bella Donna To further celebrate the skillful art of Jilly’s Music Room, 5:30 pm and Relaxer. Local vendors will be on site, along songwriting, the Civic Theatre welcomes three One of Northeast Ohio’s most active blues rock with the chance to win killer door prizes from esteemed national musicians to the cabaret for acts, The Juke Hounds, will hit the stage with Dozen businesses like Jilly’s Music Room, Akron Art an intimate evening of performances. Steve a Jilly’s crowd favorite, Diana Chittester. While Museum, Mr. Zub’s Deli and many more. Bogard has crafted original tunes for country the heavy, rockin’ sounds of the Hounds may superstars like George Strait, Lee Greenwood seem like an odd pairing with Chittester’s more å David J and Reba McEntire. Jamie Floyd is a Grammy- stripped-down folk originals, once you see the (of Love and Rockets, Bauhaus) nominated independent artist and Danielle two on stage, you’ll realize they share similar Saturday, Aug. 6 at Howle, creator of Swamp Sessions, has had sensibilities. Chittester’s arsenal of guitars and Thursday’s Lounge, 8 pm original songs appear on television, including powerful energy make her a standout in the In the midst of all the hair metal and generic Lifetime network’s “Army Wives.” Attendees local scene, while The Juke Hounds carry a pop that was pushed to the mainstream via can see all three musicians perform live for $15 thread of soulful elements through each song, >>> The Devil’s MTV the ‘80s, a few bands were broke the on the Civic Theatre stage. stringing together a rich sound with surprising mold and ushered in a darker, more interesting nuances. No cover. and radical sound. Goth rockers Bauhaus Talons, Travelogue, ç brought in a new era we now refer to as post- We Be Brakes ‘n Sh!t Never Coming Down! Showcase, punk, shifting away from the hurried aggression Saturday, Aug. 13 at Musica, 9 pm Presented by Now What Press, of traditional punk rock and introducing more To celebrate Square Records’ 13th year in A$RL and Lousy Weather Media experimental nuances in their music. Bass business, they’re hosting a special night at Friday, Aug. 26 at Hive Mind, 7 pm player David J was an original member of this Musica (on the 13th, naturally). With a rather A major art, fi lm and music collaborative event foursome, and later he went on to co-found robust catalog of recorded music, Akron’s not to be missed — Never Coming Down! Love and Rockets, arguably one of the best own Talons has perfected its sound, rich with highlights some of the most exciting DIY efforts underground rock bands of the ‘80s. He’s spent sweet, slow and sad folk tunes. Mike Tolan’s of Akron and Cleveland-area creatives. Now the last several years establishing himself as songwriting transcends time and space. Jon What Press, A$RL and Lousy Weather Media an accomplished fi lm score composer and solo Sonnenberg’s Travelogue experiments with a have curated the showcase, featuring artists performer. David J will play a set at Thursday’s blend of electronic, melodic music accented by Xing Bee, Trevor LePage and Bobert, for just $15. Doors open at 6 pm inventive chord progressions and sometimes (continued on page 41) sullen vocals. Also on the bill is We Be Brakes They Say the Wind Made n' Sh!t, and by the name alone, we’re curious Them Crazy, Actual Trains, to see how the complement the other acts in solomonophonic, Douglas Fir the night’s lineup. Tickets cost $5 at the door or Sunday, Aug. 7 at Hive Mind, 7 pm ahead of time at Square Records. If you’re looking for tunes that stray from the ordinary, Hive Mind is the alternative, DIY oasis ç For Everest, Be Still, Cody ê of your dreams. Texas romantic noirgaze group Monday, Aug. 15 at It’s a Kling Thing! They Say The Wind Made Them Crazy makes a House, 7 pm stop at the space, joined by three of Cleveland’s Based in NYC, quintet For Everest kind of most experimental and inventive musical acts. sounds like Paramore if they had evolved into Audiences can expect synths and screaming, a grittier, harder rocking sound that withstands Michael Black paired with trippy visuals, from Actual Trains, the test of time. It’s a Kling Thing! serves as the August 18 at Lock 4 along with funk, jazz, soul and psychedelic perfect venue for this type of band, as they mix Michael Black takes the stage for Live at Lock hip-hop fusion grooves from solomonophonic indie sensibilities with loud, raw passion and 4 on Thursday, August 18, joined by the and haunting, acoustic ambient numbers from energy sure to ignite a room. Be Still, Cody, Conway Brothers. é Douglas Fir. A $5 donation is suggested, but no hailing from Virginia, carry an earnest passion (Photo courtesy of Sam Hileman Creative) 40 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM music & entertainment What I'm Listening To Pop-up museum’s contents will soon go global by Brittany Nader

Brian Parsons Harry Belafonte — “Calypso” The unrivaled king of Caribbean-American pop, Harry Belafonte is perhaps best known for his rendition of “The Banana Boat Song,” better recognized (especially among “Beetlejuice” fans) as “Day-O.” Not only a Grammy Award winner, Belafonte is also regarded as an infl uential Civil Rights activist, and he is still going strong as an adamant supporter of humanitarian efforts affecting the U.S. His breakthrough album, “Calypso,” was the fi rst LP to sell more than 1 million copies, an impressive feat for an artist specializing in calypso and Jamaican folk songs. With exotic beats and simplistic, upbeat vocals, Belafonte has a rare widespread appeal that has bridged generations and withstood the test of time.

Jim Lightcap The Ground is Lava — “Bottle Rockets” Straight outta Brunswick, OH, Jon Rogers, Eric Sandt and Jordan Valentine actively played together from 2009 until their much-grieved departure in 2015. The Ground is Lava could be described as indie punk or emo, but neither broad genre quite gets to the heart of what TGIL sounds like. Valentine serves as a commanding presence throughout the band’s catalog, with prominently featured bass and signature pop-punk vocals. Rogers packs chords upon chords into each song, making the experience of listening a whirlwind — something that’s a bit tricky but mostly pleasant to wrap your head around. Few drummers could match the intricacy of both Rogers’ and Valentine’s skilled playing, Music Festival but Sandt was certainly the well-chosen man for the job. Fast, loud beats perfectly accompany the maniacal guitars, coupled with melodic vocals that result in a colorful, creative and distinct sound. Checklist Maggie Duff Brave Radar— “Lion Head” Bring Guitar Considered rare gems of the indie-pop world, Montreal  quartet Brave Radar have evolved from their trademark Pack Camper Van dissonant, lo-fi sound to a minimalist, psychedelic style Bring AAA Card all their own. With a retro fl air and breathy, talky vocal inclinations, the foursome have an understated sound that’s utterly addictive. “Lion Head” is the band’s fi rst vinyl release, recorded in an all-analog home studio, further communicating the scaled-back sound the band has been fi ne-tuning since 2007. Inspired by aspects of ‘80s New Wave and fi lm scores of composer Ennio Morricone, the common thread that ties the album’s sound together is the callback to dreamy, mind-altering ‘60s tunes. Hit the Road (continued from page 40) ê Def Leppard Monday, Aug. 29 at Blossom Music Center, & Rock on accompanied by live performances from Kudzi, 7 pm B Leezy C, Bobby Comparda, Bad News Benny Whether they’re a guilty pleasure or a nostalgic & The Night Devers, All Star Rubber Life, DJ favorite, you can’t deny the powerful impact sets by Meezy and more. Filmmakers Disaster Def Leppard has had on fans across the world. Michael Black Mind and The Slow Mutants will have their As bombastic as they may seem, “Pour Some August 18 at Lock 4 visual work on display as well. As always, a $5 Sugar On Me,” “Hysteria,” “Photograph,” Michael Black takes the stage for Live at Lock donation is suggested to attend the event at “Love Bites” and “Rock of Ages” are arguably 4 on Thursday, August 18, joined by the Hive Mind. BYOB. some of the most memorable stadium anthems Conway Brothers. and power ballads to emerge from the ‘80s hair (Photo courtesy of Sam Hileman Creative) metal genre.

AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE music & entertainment

LIVE AT LOCK 4 Bewarewolves emerge from the bar basement

by Michelle DeShon

Writer Michelle DeShon spoke with Ben Gfell at Miller South. In fi fth grade I was in class with MD: Describe a typical Bewarewolves Pictured above: The Bewarewolves performing at The and Aiden Matney from Bewarewolves, a local Ben. He was the weird kid sitting across from show for me. Hoe Garden. From left to right: Noah Gfell, Michael indie/alternative garage rock band, one of two me, drawing, who I’d never seen before. So I AM: (Laughing) Probably at a dingy bar or a Brown Jr., and Andrew Walsh. (Photo courtesy of groups scheduled to perform at Live @ Lock 4 met Noah [Gfell] later, that’s Ben’s twin brother, Chandler Mack from the Bewarewolves’ Facebook on Aug. 18. This interview has been edited and then I met Michael [Brown, Jr.] just a few basement somewhere. House shows and stuff. page / The Devil Strip) for length. years later in seventh grade. And we started I mean obviously we play Annabell’s, uh, Stone doing music pretty early. Tavern just closed, that’s kind of where we set we’ve never [done], AdamFest out in Peninsula, Michelle DeShon: How did you and the up most of the last year. I mean, we probably things like that. And it’s just crowds that we’ve band members meet? Ben Gfell: Yeah, I would say that’s one of the played there a few times a month. It’s really never experienced because we’re trying to fi nd Aiden Matney: I met one of our members, fi rst things we defi nitely formed any kind of whatever. We have had some trouble fi nding exactly where we fi t. Andrew [Walsh], way back. We actually went to friendship over. I mean, just because both of exactly what, you know, genre and crowd we elementary school together, back at Case. And our families were just kind of very musical. So fi t in with. So we kind of bounced around a BG: Recently, we’ve been playing with a few then in middle school I met the rest of the band we started doing that pretty early on. little bit. We’re playing a couple new things that (continued on page 45)

Thursday September 1st is our One Year Anniversary!!! We will be celebrating Starting on September 1st thru the 4th. Details on our Facebook Page.

42 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM music & entertainment Akron Apex of ENTERTAINMENT

WHEN

‘WICKED SMART INTIMATE PRFORMANCE LIVE JAZZ, SPACE, TOURING ARTISTS FINE FOOD & SPIRITS SOUTHERN LIBERALS’ & LOCAL SONGWRITERS COME TO TOWN Our new favorite local blogger reviews SATURDAY, AUG. 6 AT 8PM The Claudettes - $12 wellRED Comedy’s stop in Akron SATURDAY, AUG. 6 AT 8PM Lacey Sturm - $15 SUNDAY, AUG. 7 (DOORS AT 2PM) by Ted Lehr, special to The Devil Strip feat. Cage 9 and Goodnight $20 / $25 / $30 Tonight “Bringing Gospel to BLU” feat. Minister Brandon Hollis, Kofi Ed. note: Ted writes as Zep the Bear for ‘Super No Bueno’ where he applies his insight and humor to Boakye, Greg Skinner, Jordan ‘The Other Side of Pop Culture,’ taking on horror fl icks and cult classics, wrestling, comic books, Bigfoot, FRIDAY, AUG. 12 AT 9PM Welch and Kari Rodgers MMA and technology, among others. Follow him on Twitter at @supernobueno and read more at The Weeks - $10 Includes food served at 2:30pm. SuperNoBueno.Wordpress.com TUESDAY, AUG. 9 AT 7PM SATURDAY, AUG. 13 AT 9PM M&M Throwback Tuesday Old Square Records School Comedy Night The Setting liberals. They are talented comedians who have Anniversary Party - $5 feat. Eddie Bryant - $20 Akron is a city in transition. From the down taken to the road to open eyes about both feat. Talons, Travelogue and WEDNESDAY, and out days of the 1970s to the current stereotypes and politics. We Be Breaks n' Shit AUG. 10 AT 7PM - FREE revitalization of the downtown district, the city Solo Piano Wednesday is fl exing and fi nally, FINALLY, coming to life. The Show feat. Rock Wehrmann FRIDAY, AUG. 19 AT 8PM The tour stopped at the sold-out Musica on July Ben Nichols THURSDAY, AUG. 11 Amazing bars and restaurants, as well as a 16. Musica is a chic, yet unassuming, concert & AUG. 25 AT 8PM - FREE major resurgence of the arts, have served to venue. Turns out it was the ideal setting for from Lucero - $15 BLU Jazz Jam breathe life back into the a chic, yet unassuming, "Birthday Show!" hosted by Theron Brown long-slumbering beast. comedy show. FRIDAY, AUG. 12 AT 8PM SATURDAY, The Experience Pictured above: wellRED comic Akron is a working class feat. Nathan-Paul Davis - $12 Drew Morgan warmed up the AUG. 20 AT 10PM town. There are a number sold-out crowd at Musica for The CrossRhodes - $15 SATURDAY, AUG. 13 AT 8PM of connotations that can Trae Crowder. Photo courtesy of feat. Raheem Devaughn & Hot Djang! - $12 be attached to the phrase Svetla Morrison. Wes Felton featuring Sa Roc SUN., AUG. 14 AT 2PM “working class.” Perhaps, Pictured left: Ronny Chieng “lacking sophistication” is stopped in for a set on break $25/$30 (21+ only) from his duties covering the THURS., SEPT. 1 AT 8PM “The Brunch Experience” one. “Resistant to change feat. Acid Cats and DJ 88 RNC for The Daily Show. Photos MELODIME - $12 or progress” is another. courtesy of Svetla Morrison. Heck, even “not cool” WEDNESDAY, AUG. 17 AT 7PM might apply. Point being, Trae Crowder was the FRIDAY, SEPT. 2 AT 8PM Solo Piano Wednesday Jackie Warren it’s easy to put Akron away headliner. The Celina, TN Gildersleeve Reunion - $10 on a shelf in a labeled box. native’s career has been THURSDAY, AUG. 18 AT 8PM white hot the last number of months due to THURSDAY, SEPT. 8 AT 8PM Tommy Lehman Sextet- $12 And that right there is the exact reason why the series of “Liberal Redneck” videos he has Agent Orange - $15 FRIDAY, AUG. 19 AT 8PM Akron was a perfect fi t to host a stop of the produced that have gone viral. By viral, I mean feat. Counterpunch $20 (advance), $25 (door) wellRED Comedy Tour. he has accumulated views to the tune of 15-20 “Purple in BLU” MILLION. He has a lot of people’s attention. Marcus Anderson TUESDAY, OCT. 11 AT 8PM The wellRed tour is composed of comedians The Get Up Kids - $18 SATURDAY, AUG. 20 AT 8PM Trae Crowder, Corey Forrester, and Drew His standup is very similar to the videos. He Ahi-Nama - $12 Morgan. All three are from the South. They walks the line between “aw, shucks” and FRIDAY, OCT. 28 AT 9PM speak with drawls. One is the son of a Baptist New York sophistication with grace. He lures WED., AUG. 24 AT 7PM Watsky, X Infi nity Tour - Solo Piano Wednesdays preacher. Another passionately loves college one in with his warm Southern delivery only feat. Cli Habian - FREE football. The third would be hard-pressed to to whack them over the head with a prescient $20-$55 be separated from his Pabst Blue Ribbon observation about politics or family. feat. Witt Lowry, Daye Jack FRIDAY, AUG. 26 - trucker cap. and Chukwudi Hodge SATURDAY, AUG. 27, 8 PM Rubber City Jazz & Early in his set he recalled that had to grow up Blues Festival - FREE Think you got them fi gured out? You’re not and leave home before he realized what he even close. was, which was white trash. This is the type of honesty that makes live comedy so intimate. It MUSICA BLU JAZZ+ Much like Akron, they are more than they reminds me of the writing of heralded essayist 51 E. MARKET ST. 47 E MARKET ST. seem. All three are wicked smart Southern (continued on page 44) AKRON, OH 44308 AKRON, OH 44308 LIVEATMUSICA.COM BLUJAZZAKRON.COM AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE Music & entertainment AKRON ADOLESCENCE The Rise and Fallof Roadrunner Video

by Chris Kessinger (The Film Freak)

Long before you could skip North Main Street felt like crossing into another of 10, I decided that enough was enough. All fi lm subject: women. They were everywhere, chapters on a DVD or stream dimension. Upon opening the door, the smell by myself, I rode my bike down to the store. I and their lack of clothing on the countless an entire movie on Netfl ix, of fresh plastic would fi ll my nose, thanks to had no intention of checking out a movie – just video cases that fi lled the room was quite a VHS video was a rising the hundreds of video cases that crowded a to handle business. My heart was pounding shock for a kid who still viewed them as "cootie technology among the masses room as big as any I had ever seen at the age at a million beats per second when I opened holders." In a sense, Roadrunner Video took for their dose of culture. of seven. I still associate the door with authority, my innocence that day and never gave it back, Among the very places that you could fi nd such the smell of fresh plastic strode right up to Antie which may explain why video stores aren't a relic was the local video store. In Akron, with that video store, and said, "I can't be popular in today’s world of ever more plenty came and went, but Roadrunner Video even today, when the afraid of you anymore." protective parents. was among the most memorable for any movie occasional whiff freezes Not the bravest of lover like myself. The once-prosperous local me dead in my tracks. speeches, sure, but it Throughout the years, of course, technology chain boasted 12 locations that garnered a It makes me long for an was my "Citizen Kane" kept evolving, and competition mounted for reputation for the increasing attention to video easier time. As a local-run moment. Roadrunner Video. Invaders like Blockbuster and VCR sales. Roadrunner did more than business, Roadrunner Video and Hollywood Video staked their claim kickstart the dawn of the video store, it Video’s employee door Once my childhood was on the Rubber City, and soon the days were embraced it with hard-to-fi nd titles and a was never a revolving one. over, and my young numbered for the dwindling local chain. By dependable selection of movie posters. It was a Every week, I got to speak teenage years were fast 2005, all the Roadrunner Videos were out library of visual stimulation for the masses that with Randy, a teenager approaching, Roadrunner of business, leaving me with a lifetime of craved the gore of horror, the destruction of whom I viewed as the single coolest entity in became the source of the biggest mystery memories as the pink neons went off for the action, the feel-good laughs of a comedy or the my pathetic Pee-Wee Herman fi lled life. Randy among me and my friends – what was behind last time. On the fi nal day, I remember a nearly titillation of the behind-the-curtain section – felt like family – something sorely lacking in the silver curtain? Perhaps you've seen it; empty room and the feeling of defeated dread more on that later. It was a place where dreams today's businesses. every store had a curtain that led to another that overtook the once beautiful spirit of the were rented out one, two or fi ve days at a time, room with a different kind of fi lm. I could only place. That day, I purchased a copy of "Bubble and its endless supply of stocked shelves Roadrunner Video was also the venue for my speculate what kind of treasures the store Boy" for $3. Not my proudest moment, but it provided countless opportunities for my weekly showdown with my arch-nemesis: hid back there. I mean, if the movies on the was the least I could do for a place that acted personal love of fi lm to escape its cage. Antie the Bug. An enormous prop ant from showroom fl oor were as good as I remembered as a third parent in my life. A place where I the movie "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids," Antie them being, surely those had to be even better, conquered my fears and was shocked out of If I remember one thing from my frequent sat to the right of the cash registers, looming right? innocence. A place where it was kind to rewind, visits to Roadrunner, it was the visual delight nightmarishly over children like me. Every week, a philosophy that we could all use more of in of a place that took pride in embracing both I ran past Antie, so as not to stand face-to-face I was right – well, kind of. I remember being our lives. the best styles of the ‘80s and the cultish with my greatest fear. The bug never came dared by one of my friends to run in there for feel of B-movie fandom. The neon decals down throughout my childhood, and eventually 10 seconds – the typical mischief of bored // You Can read more of Chris's weekly fi lm reviews at throughout the store lit up its interiors with it began to decay, due to neighborhood vandals teenagers. When I took the dare and entered Thefi lmfreak.com pink fl uorescence, so that entering the store at and aging papier-mâché. At around the age the room, my eyes focused on a new kind of // Photo Credit : Ed Haas

(continued from page 43) the curtain too far and revealed too much. night off hot with material highlighting his (continued on page 26) David Foster Wallace, who famously struggled Musicians are no longer special. He closed with hometown. He posited that Chickamauga, point, “The Summit’s core business is with the complications of his roots. a bit about Jim Morrison of The Doors that was GA has yet to fi gure out that the Civil War is producing and presenting high-quality music so tremendous. history. He has some great jokes about early programming that is ‘made in northeast Ohio’. Drew Morgan preceded Crowder. His father is a balding. He isn’t afraid to get dirty, either. Our programming appeals to a musically preacher and his mother an alcoholic. His set If the evening wasn’t already special enough, adventurous, sophisticated local audience.“ consisted of him talking about his early days unannounced sets from Ronny Chieng and After introductions by Tony Troppe and Chris growing up and playing college ball. Roy Woods Jr., both correspondents on The Horne, local comedian Sarah Jones performed “In addition, we have an advantage that the Daily Show, sealed the evening as a classic. a short set. Jones came out swinging. She had national companies don’t have. We’re able He revealed that he fi nds no solace in Presumably in town for the upcoming RNC in a particularly great line about former mayor to create face-to-face connections with and traditional religion and has replaced it with Cleveland, the two performed short, concise Don Plusquelic. Since she is homegrown, I will among our listeners and across the community music. He misses the musicians of previous sets. Both men destroyed. Originally from certainly make the effort to see her again. as a whole. We do this through a variety of eras because he feels current artist have no Malaysia, Chieng spoke about how he didn’t partnerships with other local non-profi t art aura. Things like social media have pulled back know there were Asian stereotypes until he The Point Being… organizations and community groups. arrived in America. Woods did a It seems to me that comedy is about place and blistering set that focused heavily time. When and where count when it comes How does The Summit hope to compete with on the addictive nature of sugar. to humor. That’s why the performances not the technology the large national corporations only worked but were great. Trae Crowder has can invest in? “There is an ever changing Pictured left: At the end of the night, assumed the mission of addressing expectations array of audio streaming platforms at our Drew, Corey and Trae took questions and perception and fl ipping them around. disposal,” Bruno explains. “In fact, our use of from the audience and told some Expectations and perception are the very story live web streaming is attracting national and stories. (Photo courtesy of Svetla of this city for the last three decades. As for international audiences because of our unique Morrison.) fl ipping them around…we’re working on it. local fl avor that reinforces a positive image of the region.” Cory Ryan Forrester was the host — Ted Lehr of the evening. He started the // Photo courtesy of 91.3 The Summit

44 | THE Devil Strip / AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 WWW.THEDEVILSTRIP.COM misc.

(continued from page 22) “We would love to see dads and moms coming through winter. and there will be programmed museum events, Rick and Alita Rogers gave a lead gift to the from the library. The trip to the library doesn’t but the rest of the time, the garden will be museum to fund the garden, so the garden has have to end with them checking out books and The upper grove, or “art oasis” is another open to the public. Caruso said that the idea is been named after Rick Rogers’ parents. going home; maybe they could have story time grove of trees growing out of crushed granite, two-fold: to have meaningful art experiences on the lawn,” said Caruso. The museum hopes from which you can survey the entire garden. at the garden and available to a wider array of The one-acre garden has two entrances—one to have structured events with the library, such The crushed granite is softer to the foot than people, but also to have a space that’s like a on South High Street and one off of Broadway as story walks or story times. pavement, but holds up as fi rm as concrete. civic commons where people can come spend Street—and four basic parts: the plaza, the Again: trees growing out of granite. I’m still time downtown. green, the criss-cross and the upper grove, or The green also has a feature wall, which the trying to wrap my head around it. But it looks “art oasis.” museum will use for art experiences such as cool, and it’s good for the environment. “That will be the real success of the place is murals and installations. “We wanted a place when we just have people—families and kids The plaza seats 50 people on the concrete that was a blank slate that we could propose The garden will be open year-round. There just playing and coming to enjoy the space.” walls, with plenty of room for additional chair to artists—both local artists and national and is lighting all around the perimeter, so that seating. The plaza has a sub-portion called the international artists—to invite them to come even when the garden is closed, it will remain canopy, which is a small grove of white birch look at the space and create work especially for illuminated. “We want the place to look inviting trees growing out of crushed granite. It’s surreal Akron and this space,” said Caruso. at night. Even though it won’t be accessible, we to see trees growing out of what looks like want it to be secure and safe,” said Caruso. cement. But the crushed granite provides more The criss-cross is an ADA-accessible, paved BUD AND SUSIE ROGERS GARDEN drainage and is better for water conservation walkway that zig-zags up from the plaza and “The idea is,” said Caruso. “People want to HOURS: Monday through Friday 9am – 6pm than concrete. And trees can grow out of it. green to the upper grove. The walkway is be downtown. We see a lot of foot traffi c just Thursday 9am – 9pm bordered with fl owerbeds containing native on Market and High, so we’re thinking this will Saturday & Sunday 10am – 5pm The green is exactly what it sounds like: a large plants. In fact, all the plants in the garden, with energize the block even more.” grassy area, perfect for an impromptu yoga the exception of one tree, are native to Ohio, FREE and Open to the Public every day during class, a picnic lunch, or, you know…cartwheels. and all the plants are hardy enough to make it The garden will be rentable for private events, the posted hours.

(continued from page 24) (continued from page 25) looking for food and crafty vendors. More month, the Riverfront Square area of Cuyahoga è Summit for Kids Family Expo Health and Vascular Center, located at One information about volunteering or being a Falls hosts its own version of the event, thanks August 20 at John S. Knight Center, Akron General Avenue on the main hospital vendor can be found at copleybetterblock. to a grant from Torchbearers via the Knight 10am - 4pm campus. The classes are free, and each lasts an wordpress.com. Foundation, and a number of local sponsors, The seventh annual Summit for Kids Family hour and a half, starting at 5:30pm and ending all put together by a committee co-chaired by Expo is designed for kids and teenagers in at 7pm. Samantha Coldwell and Getta Cornici. kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as for their parents. There will be a number of fun Falls Better Block takes place on August 26th learning activities, plus live entertainment, BETTER AND BETTER BLOCKS and 27th, and features a number of different guest speakers, and giveaways that include Copley Circle to Host Better Block pop-up shops, food carts and other activities, all back-to-school items and other necessities. What would bring you to Copley Circle and with the goal of enhancing the foot traffi c on PNC Bank and Foundation, Akron Children’s make you want to hang out for part of the the Front Street Pedestrian Mall. Some of the Hospital, Summit County Children Services, day? A coffee shop? A dog park? Restaurants? many things to do include kayak trips on the Metro RTA, the Akron Area YMCA, and many The Copley Circle Advisory Board (CCAB) is Cuyahoga River, workout boot camps, and a other local organizations are sponsors for the hosting a Better Block September 9 through yoga class. There will also be a pop-up theatre, Summit for Kids Family Expo. Admission is free. 11 at the circle on Cleveland-Massillon Road to Falls Better Block a stage with live entertainment, a playground, (Photo courtesy of Summit for Kids) demonstrate how great the circle area could be The community revitalizing Better Block a night market, a beer garden and a number of with less vacancies and more entertainment. Movement spread to northeastern Ohio last pop-up shops. (Falls Better Block image courtesy of ‹ John Brown House The board is currently looking for volunteers year, taking over part of East Cuyahoga Falls 427 Design) Community Forum to help build and run the event. CCAB is also Avenue in Akron’s North Hill for two days. This August 25 at John Brown House, 4-6pm The John Brown House Community Forum is a (continued from page 27) (continued from page 42) events, but for the most part, we’re playing in platform to discuss both historic and modern reported within the structure, mostly rumored bands, it seems like. Like Shag, we’re getting bars late at night or in people’s basements at events in the Akron area. Each forum features to be the destruction of UFOs. And in 2011, closer to them, and we’re playing another 1 in the morning, which is fun, but it’s just not a discussion of Akron’s participation in the 19th Lockheed Martin conducted a test fl ight for show with them. We used to play whatever the same. Going to a Lock 3 event — or in century abolitionist movement, also known as a new airship model, High Altitude Long shows we could get, basically. And it would this case, a Lock 4 event — it’s just a different the “crusade” against slavery, up through the Endurance Demonstrator (or HALE-D, for short). range from like, I don’t know, like hardcore energy, and we’re excited to see what we can modern civil rights movement. The scheduled The mysterious silver airship ran into “technical emo stuff to like folk stuff, and we we’re just do with that. speaker for the August 25th forum is Margo issues” however, and caught fi re in a heavily like somewhere in the middle — or not in the Sommerville, city council representative for wooded area outside of Pittsburgh. According middle. (Laughing) We’ve been trying to fi nd BG: I think it will be interesting just because ward three and owner of Sommerville Funeral to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, personnel from our spot. But I feel like more and more, kind it will be, not necessarily a different group of Services. Her talk focuses on Akron’s Maple Lockheed Martin arrived on the scene prior to of, we’re being placed with people who we people, but there will certainly be people who, Valley neighborhood, in which she lives and fi refi ghters to extinguish the fl ames and clean actually fi t with. I don’t know, wouldn’t necessarily go to see us. works, and the challenges that this particular up whatever remained. So I think it will be some good exposure that’s community in Akron faces on a daily basis. MD: What are your hopes or expectations good for everybody. Regardless of whether the X-Files-esque rumors for the upcoming show at Lock 4? ‹ Woodland Mushrooms are true, one thing is for certain: the Goodyear AM: I’m pretty excited for it just because it’s AM: People you wouldn’t normally fi nd at August 27 at Campfi re Area of F.A. Airdock is a one-of-a-kind structure that can just a much different experience than what we Annabell’s at 1 in the morning. And I think Seiberling Nature Realm, 10am - 12pm only be found in Akron, and is a key piece in normally do. In the past, we that’s good. I mean, we did PorchRokr last Knowing which mushrooms are edible and the history of our beloved Blimp mascot. played a farmers market, we year, and that was one of the best shows which are poisonous is important for survival. played a couple outdoor we’ve done. It was a lot of fun, just ‘cause Even if you aren’t planning any multi-day hikes it’s a different vibe, lots of new people, through a national forest while subsisting only especially talking to them afterward. It’s a really off of the land, this informative hike led by interesting experience. a trained naturalist will teach you quite a bit about the mushrooms that grow wild in // Michelle DeShon is an aspiring journalist with an our area. unhealthy obsession with antique cameras, french fries and vinyl records.

AKRON MUSIC, ART & CULTURE AUGUST 2016 • VOL 2 • ISSUE #8 / THE Devil Strip | 45 back of book

UrineHold me Closer, LuckTiny Dancer by Emily Dressler and Robert Ledyard

This month’s installment of Urine Luck features disrupt this idyllic scene, for sure, even if they that is made from recycled plastic will a lineup change. Marissa had her beautiful baby are made of green plastic that is meant (I actually be made from this very Porta boy on June 9, so she’s chillaxin at home during guess?) to blend in with nature. Potty. What luck. Who knows about the her me-ternity leave getting peed on every life of this particular plastic. This little guy twenty minutes. My dear, talented husband, My husband used the Porta Potty fi rst and said might have started out as a hard hat or Robbie Ledyard is helping out with this it earns 5 out of 5. I am not as generous. Hell is as a swimming pool, and now here he/she month’s column. probably a little bit like standing in a hot Porta is in Akron, Ohio just gathering up some Potty on a summer night during this weather poop and pee. I know that Porta Potties have their uses: I phenomenon called a Heat Dome. At least I’m understand they are preferable to open-air not on my period. Or a ballerina. Are you really Sure wish I could tell you about the fl ushing pits and I also understand that in some places, telling me that the ballerinas use these Porta powers on this toilet, but don’t worry-- they are the only barrier between disease and Potties? Do they hold it all night, or are they no fl ushing necessary. You just do your widespread contamination. But still. They are willing to make such great sacrifi ces for the business on top of all the other stuff in not my favorite. I don’t know when I became sake of art? such a wimp. In fact, I am actually queasy from Pictured right: Art and Nature / checking out the wikipedia page on chemical When it was my turn, I stood in there and tried Drawing by Robert Ledyard toilets. to calm my anxiety. I just don’t feel comfortable in a big plastic box, okay? However, I will say there. It’s chemically treated so that you We were at Firestone Park for the Heinz that these things have made some decent can’t smell all the waste. Instead Summer Dance Festival, which really is a advancements in recent years, at least as far as you get that all-too familiar chemical gorgeous endeavor: free ballet at the park, aesthetics go. I cannot speak to the effi ciency smell that seems to have pervaded our the sun setting behind the stage, art and of handling human excreta. This particular one modern society. nature intertwined as my toddler dances is handicap accessible, so there is a bit of extra a wimp and it’s idiotic. and looks back to make sure I’m watching, room and a small curved bench to the side of Robbie says that when he’s in a Porta Potty he her curly hair glinting in the setting sun. The the “toilet.” I seriously doubt there is room to feels the confl icting forces of not wanting to Even though I am usually against the hand Porta Potties—located by the tennis courts— easily maneuver a wheelchair, though. touch anything while also wanting to touch all sanitizer in public restrooms, I welcomed this of it. Dear reader, I don’t feel that confl iction. one, but was at the same time only partially Inside the unisex Porta Potty, a layer of I want to crawl into my own skin and through reassured by its presence. I feel that the high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic my bones so that I’m not actually there. I want cleanliness of everything in the Porta Potty has separates you from the outside. Luckily, HDPE to be a robot who does not have to pee at been compromised. is recyclable, so maybe your next Dr. Pepper all, ever. bottle will be made from a Porta Potty! Or If I pretend that this Porta Potty should be maybe that cute little purse at a craft show I wish I could tell you that I used this toilet, but judged like all other bathrooms, it gets a low I did not. I could not summon the strength. I rating of .5 out of 5 toilets. If I judge it against Pictured left: Hello, Hell / Picture by Emily Dressler// have to be in dire straits to use a prefab toilet. other Porta Potties I’ve visited in the past, I The Devil Strip If I walk into a bathroom and an immediately reward it a very high score of 3 out of 5. uncomfortable, I have a hard time. I know, I’m

(continued from page 31) lighter coffees.” Chain coffee shops are recently Oletta and King’s passion for their business and and are continuously catching up to Oletta and King’s successful their customers shines through in their carefully expanding their menu -- be roasts: “time has proven us right,” Oletta curated food and drink menus. The drinks on sure to stop in to see what states, “the big Starbucks is now offering the Angel Falls menu are personal, homemade they'll create next! lighter coffees.” recipes, which, Oletta proudly states, “separates Oletta attributes their success to having us from any other coffee business in town”. Pictured right: Rafael Oletta a “great product, pride in what we do, His favorite, he says, is the Volcan: “It took me (left) and Jim King (right)/ involvement in the community, and [improving] close to a whole year to come up with the fi rst Photo by Lia Pietrolungo the quality of life in the community.” Oletta one. Pure venezuelan chocolate, spices, and and King support the Akron community by milk. Thick european style.” // Lia spends her spare time hosting art showings, sourcing sweet treats attempting to take her cat, from numerous local bakeries, and stocking As with their drink menu, Oletta and King use Heathcliff, on walks. Much to their fridge with Akron-based and brewed cherished home recipes for their lunch menu, her vexation, Heath continues Bucha Bill’s kombucha, to name a few. which features vegetarian and Venezuelan- to stubbornly resist the inspired creations. In creating the recipes, Oletta outdoors. Outside, a public mural spans the side of called on the Caribbean roots of Venezuelan their building. Keeping with Oletta and King’s cuisine: “I wanted to bring those fl avors and passion for community involvement, they seasonings to our menu,” he mentions. reached out to local artists. The mural was created by University of Akron’s Arts Lift team, The passion and dedication that Oletta and as well as local high school students and Jesse King pour into their business and community Strother of Good Life Tattoo. speaks for itself through their twenty years of 792 West Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44303. success. Angel Falls serves seasonal favorites Hours: Monday-Thursday 7am - 10pm, Friday-Saturday 7am - 12am, and Sunday 9am - 10pm

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