🏰 Stan's spring showcase

Good morning, Summit County. Spring has officially arrived at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, where the historic Seiberling mansion reopens its doors today. The 70-acre estate, once home to Goodyear Tire's founder, invites visitors to explore its grandeur while supporting the community—bring a non-perishable food item this month and score a buy-one-get-one deal on Manor House tours. From theatrical performances to car shows, this industrial-era time capsule promises something for everyone through December.

The sound of music filled the Akron Civic Theatre recently as over 1,800 fifth-graders joined professional musicians for "The Orchestra Swings" concerts. While these young performers created harmonious memories, a different kind of note arrives in mailboxes soon—electricity rates nearly doubling to 9.24 cents/kWh starting in May. Residents can opt out of the new aggregation plan by responding to letters coming in April, or explore energy-saving measures like LED lighting and programmable thermostats.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Akron

30°

57°

Cuyahoga Falls

30°

58°

Stow

30°

58°

Barberton

30°

57°

Green

29°

55°

Hudson

30°

58°

Tallmadge

29°

55°

Macedonia

30°

58°

Twinsburg

30°

58°

Norton

30°

57°

Munroe Falls

30°

58°

Fairlawn

30°

57°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏛️ Historic Seiberling mansion reopens for spring visitors today. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, once the private estate of Goodyear Tire founder F.A. Seiberling, welcomes the public starting April 1 as spring flowers prepare to bloom across its 70-acre grounds. Throughout April, visitors who donate a non-perishable food item receive a buy-one-get-one offer on self-guided Manor House tours. The nonprofit museum offers various tour options and will host numerous events including theater performances, car shows, and yoga sessions through December. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am-6pm, the historic estate provides a glimpse into America's industrial past.

🎵 Fifth-graders rock with Akron Symphony Orchestra in massive musical event. Over 1,800 Akron Public Schools students joined nearly 3,000 total area schoolchildren at the Akron Civic Theatre for "The Orchestra Swings" concerts. The young musicians performed alongside professional orchestral players using recorders they had been learning to play. This collaboration was made possible through Carnegie Hall's Link Up program, which introduces elementary students to orchestral music. The special event brought classical music education to life as students experienced the thrill of performing in a historic venue.

💡 Akron electric bills about to shock residents with $40 monthly increase. Starting in May, a new 13-month aggregation deal with Dynegy will fix electricity rates at 9.24 cents/kWh, nearly double the previous 4.97 cents/kWh. City officials blame "significantly higher costs set by energy suppliers" for the price hike, noting their new rate is comparable to recent deals in neighboring communities. Residents can opt out by responding to letters arriving in April or explore alternative suppliers without penalties. The city has provided tips to reduce energy consumption, including using programmable thermostats, sealing air leaks, and switching to LED lighting.

Spacious brick home plus land: This 2-bath, 5-bedroom brick house with updated furnace, AC, and kitchen is listed at $199,900 and includes a bonus land parcel zoned for a duplex, offering additional space for summer gatherings across from a park.

Classic home with spacious potential: This charming traditional home, listed at $248,000, offers 1,700 square feet of thoughtfully designed space with a welcoming living room, separate dining area, three bedrooms, and an adaptable basement, all complemented by a private fenced backyard.

Spacious country fixer needs love: For $175,000, grab this 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom fixer upper featuring a spacious 2-car detached garage, picturesque country views, full basement and large attic, though the property is selling as-is.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🤝 Mar. 27 - Black Chamber Open House: Connect with the Black Chamber of Commerce Summit County at their open house! Drop by 1495 S Hawkins Ave on March 27 for networking, refreshments, and music while meeting the dedicated team.

🎸 Mar. 27 - Emo/Math Punk Night: Rock out at Musica on March 27 as regional powerhouses collide! Catch Posture, Yes Yes A Thousand Times Yes, Manor Gates, and Placid State for an electrifying night of emo and math punk at 51 E Market St.

💘 Mar. 28 - Speed Dating for Singles: Find your perfect match at BARMACY Bar & Grill's Speed Dating Event! Mingle with fellow singles (ages 25-49) in a fun, civilized atmosphere on March 28. The modern way to meet someone wonderful.

🌨️ Mar. 29 - Midwinter Evening: Warm up your winter at Midwinter, lighting up St. Paul Event Center in South Akron on March 29. Doors open at 7:00 PM for this cozy evening celebration at 196 E Voris St.

🗣️ Mar. 29 - Spanish Language Meetup: Practice your español at the Summit County Spanish Language Meetup every Friday at Panera Bread on Howe Ave! Join fellow language enthusiasts in the meeting room, on the patio, or wherever we find cozy space.

🎵 Mar. 30 - The Miracles Live: Groove to Motown magic as The Miracles take the stage at EJ Thomas Hall in Akron on March 30! Grab your tickets now through Spotify and experience this legendary group live.

🎸 Mar. 30 - 330 Day Concert: Celebrate local music at the 8th annual 330 Day Concert featuring Cody J. Martin and Marc Lee Shannon! Join The Summit FM at Akron Civic Theatre on March 30, 2025, for this can't-miss community tradition.

🎻 Mar. 30 - Oblivion Project Tango: Experience the passionate rhythms of The Oblivion Project as they bring Astor Piazzolla's Nuevo Tango to life at Akron-Summit County Public Library on March 30. A vibrant cultural journey not to be missed!

🙏 In Remembrance

Dr. Ranendra DasVarma

Dr. Ranendra "Ron" DasVarma, 89, passed away on March 19, 2025, in Naples, Florida. Born in India in 1935, he immigrated to the United States after receiving his medical degree, eventually establishing a distinguished cardiology career in Akron, Ohio, where he served as Chairman of Internal Medicine at St. Thomas Medical Center for 20 years. He is survived by his three children and two grandchildren, having been preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Janet. Following retirement, Ron volunteered at free clinics, participated in medical missions abroad, and remained physically active, walking several miles daily until his passing.

Lloyd Henry Nelson

Lloyd Henry Nelson, 87, passed away on March 21, 2025, in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio after a brief illness. A graduate of West Geauga High School and National Guard veteran, Lloyd worked for W.S. Tyler Company and Graco Rubbermaid before retiring in 2003. He was a devoted member of Relentless Church for 40 years, actively participating in nursing home ministries, hospital volunteering, and street outreach. Lloyd is survived by his wife of 55 years, Barbara, his son Matthew, his sister Ardean, and his brother Eric.

Laurie J. Funk

Laurie J. Funk, 49, of Canton, passed away on March 18, 2025. Born in Akron in 1975, she was a 1993 graduate of Waterloo High School where she played saxophone in the band. After graduation, Laurie proudly served in the U.S. Army and later developed interests in reading and fishing. She is survived by her parents, several aunts and uncles, and many cousins, relatives, and friends.

Randall Joseph "Randy" Rager

Randall Joseph Rager, 55, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Fairlawn, Ohio on March 17, 2025. Born in Barberton, Ohio in 1969, Randy worked as a senior purchaser at Co-ax Technology for 17 years after graduating from Barberton High School in 1987. He was known for his adventurous spirit, love of travel, and dedication to fitness, as well as his kind and generous nature that brought joy to those around him. Randy is survived by his father Daniel, two sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews, while a viewing and funeral service will be held on March 30th at Campfield-Hickman-Collier Funeral Home in Barberton.

Todd Buchanan

Todd Lawson Buchanan, born February 13, 1977, passed away on March 18th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, wit, and loyalty. Known for his fashion sense and perfectionist approach to music, Todd was a beloved father, fiancé, brother, and friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, Diana and Tommy Buchanan. Todd is survived by his fiancé Mary, five children (Raven, Makinzie, Madison, Blake, and Trevin), his siblings Tiffini and Tommy "Tre'," and numerous other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Howard E Walls

Howard E. Walls, Sr., 86, passed away on March 24, 2025, after being born in Hollidaysburg, PA in 1938 and relocating to Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio in 1965. He retired from Ford Motor Company after 33 years of service and was a devoted member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church for 56 years. An avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and competitive shooting, Howard also enjoyed watching sports, particularly teams from Pennsylvania and Cleveland. He is survived by his two children, a granddaughter, a great-grandson, and extended family, having been preceded in death by his wife Roberta and his parents.

Maurice Mundy

Maurice Mundy passed away on March 21, 2025. A viewing will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 10:00 am until 12:00 noon at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Akron, Ohio. The funeral service will take place immediately following the viewing at the same location. Interment will be at Rose Hill Burial Park. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during these services.

Jerry James Slagle

Jerry J. Slagle, 81, of Stow, Ohio, passed away on March 20, 2025, after battling cancer, surrounded by family. Born in Templeton, PA, in 1943, Jerry retired from ALLTEL in 2000 after 44 years in the telecommunications industry to pursue his passions for golf, hunting, and fishing. He is survived by his wife Sharon, two sons, two step-sons, two sisters, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. No formal services are planned, and the family suggests donations to Children's Cancer Research in honor of Jerry's great-grandson.

Rose M. Payne

Rose M. Payne, aged 80, passed away after 59 years of marriage to Jeffrey J. Payne. She was a loving mother to Deedra Evert and devoted grandmother to Cameron and Erin Evert. Rose was preceded in death by her parents, Marie and John Kabat, as well as her brother Daniel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Victor Church in Richfield, Ohio on March 28, 2025, with the family requesting contributions to the American Heart Association or American Lung Association in lieu of flowers.

Reba Earline Harris

Reba "Earline" Harris, 93, passed away on March 20, 2025, after being born in Akron, Ohio in 1931 and enjoying 72 years of marriage to Arthur Harris, who died in 2024. She was deeply involved with the Summit County Historical Society, served as president of its service league, and was an active member of the Firestone Park Garden Club. Earline took great pleasure in cooking Sunday dinners for her family and spending time with her grandsons. She is survived by her two daughters, three grandsons, two nieces, and a nephew, and will be laid to rest alongside her husband at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery on May 5th.

James Webster Wahl

Jim Wahl, born in Sandusky, Ohio to Sylvan and Nancy Wahl, was a 1979 graduate of Margaretta High School who married his high school sweetheart, Joni Johnson, with whom he shared 44 years of marriage. He enjoyed playing Santa Claus at Christmas, playing guitar, and building models. Jim is survived by his wife, two daughters and their husbands, two grandchildren whom he deeply loved, his father, two brothers, and several extended family members. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 18th at Brushwood Lodge in Summit Metro Parks, Richfield, Ohio.

Clarence Leonard Lorey

Clarence Leonard Lorey, a 98-year-old World War II Navy veteran, passed away on March 15, 2025. A long-time resident of New Franklin, Ohio, Leonard worked as a skilled carpenter specializing in flooring and cabinetry, and was a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. He was passionate about gardening, woodworking, antique restoration, and big band music. Leonard is survived by his daughters, stepdaughter, siblings, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with a military honors service scheduled for April 3 at Woodlawn Cemetery.

Elsie Fern Bray

Elsie F. Bray, born in Cleveland on December 13, 1926, died peacefully in Louisville on March 20, 2025, surrounded by family. She is remembered as a kind and loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and aunt, and was preceded in death by her husband Gerald, daughter Linda, and her parents and sister. Elsie is survived by her daughter Janice, four grandchildren, and two "great granddogs." Visitation and graveside services will be held on March 27, 2025, at Crown Hill Funeral Home in Twinsburg, Ohio.

James Dague Welton

James Dague Welton, 81, passed away on March 20, 2025, after battling Parkinson's Disease. He was a US Army veteran who served over 30 years as a firefighter/medic and Road Superintendent for Copley Township. James is survived by his wife of 57 years, Margaret, two daughters, numerous grandchildren, and extended family members. Following retirement, he enjoyed traveling with his wife in their RV, particularly spending winters in Port Aransas, Texas. Graveside services will be held at Copley Cemetery on May 2, with donations requested to the Parkinson's Foundation or Copley Fire Association in lieu of flowers.

Charles Wetzel

Charles (Chuck) Wetzel, 65, passed away on March 23, 2025, leaving behind his wife Debbie, two sons, five grandchildren, and numerous family members. A machinist for 40 years who retired from Automated Packaging/SealedAir, Chuck was known as a jack of all trades who would help anyone in need. He enjoyed hunting with his sons and best friend, and had a passion for motorcycles, even building Harley Sportsters for his sons. Chuck and Debbie, who were friends since junior high before marrying in 2010, celebrated their life together with annual pig roasts centered around "food, fun, family and friends."

Patricia DiDonato

Patricia "Patti" DiDonato, 89, a lifelong Akron resident, passed away on March 20, 2025, after nearly a decade of health challenges. After graduating from Garfield High School in 1953, she worked as a legal secretary before marrying Rudy in 1956 and raising five children while running her "Patti Cakes" business for nearly 30 years. Known for her kindness, faith, and dedication to family and community service, Patti was active in PTAs, church, and fundraising while supporting her husband and children in their activities. She is survived by her five children and twelve grandchildren, with a funeral service scheduled at St. Paul's Catholic Church on March 29, 2025.

Linda May Desman

Linda May Desman, daughter of Dr. Reynold and Tessie Desman, passed away on March 24, 2025, leaving behind siblings Robert, Richard, and the late Reynold, along with several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Despite facing significant physical hardships throughout her life, Linda demonstrated remarkable resilience, maintaining her joy and kindness. She had a passion for arts and crafts, loved animals (especially her German Shepherd, Coco), and was known for being a compassionate listener. A celebration of Linda's life will be held at Hummel Funeral Home in Akron, Ohio on March 29th, followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

David Palmer Kindt

David Palmer Kindt, 78, of Hudson, OH, passed away at home on March 7, 2025, surrounded by family and pets. A lifelong employee of his family's business, The Kindt-Collins Company LLC, Dave traveled extensively internationally for work before retiring in 2011. He met his wife Diane in 2006 while walking his dog, and they married in 2008, blending their families. Dave's greatest joy was being "Pa" to his six grandchildren, and he was known for his hospitality, fixing abilities, and zest for life.