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🎨 Art you can eat

Summit County • May 15, 2025

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Good morning, Summit County. The intersection of art and daily life takes center stage this week as Fairlawn's Emerald Hive Gallery prepares for a multi-sensory feast. At Friday's "Taste the Art" event, visitors won't just view iconic artworks – they'll literally consume their culinary counterparts, from Warhol-inspired soup to Picasso-shaped pizza slices. This creative collision of visual and gustatory experiences offers a refreshing reminder that art needn't be confined to silent contemplation.

Meanwhile, Akron continues addressing everyday challenges with practical compassion. The city's "Tumble Together" program transforms the mundane task of laundry into a community lifeline, providing free washing services for families struggling to make ends meet. And for those following developments in global affairs, Canton native Rosemarie Esber returns home Saturday to share her perspective on the Palestinian crisis during a free lecture at the downtown library – bringing international issues into local conversation.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🗣️ Canton native returns home to lecture on Middle East conflict. Rosemarie M. Esber will present "Truth and Memory: The Nakba Then and Now, The Catastrophe in Palestine" on May 18 at the Akron-Summit Public Library. The free event runs from 2 to 4 p.m. at the downtown Akron location. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear Esber's perspective on this historical and ongoing crisis in Palestine.

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🎨 Art and food collide at Emerald Hive Gallery's unique event. Lisa Yedidsion's "Taste the Art" experience pairs iconic artwork with 15 complementary food tastings at her Fairlawn gallery on May 17. Guests will enjoy clever pairings like Campbell's soup with Andy Warhol's work, cubist-shaped pizza pieces representing Picasso, and melting brie cheese alongside Salvador Dali's surrealist art. The 1,800-square-foot gallery, celebrating its one-year anniversary, showcases various art forms from local artists. Tickets are $35 for singles and $50 for couples, with reservations required.

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🧺 Akron offers free laundry day to help struggling families. The city's "Tumble Together" event on May 20 will provide free washing and drying for up to three loads per Akron household at Super Clean Laundromat. Mayor Shammas Malik noted that "when times are hard, clean laundry can sometimes become a luxury," highlighting the dignity this service provides. The program has already helped 97 families complete over 300 loads in previous events this year, with a goal of assisting 200 families total. Free detergent, dryer sheets and meals will also be provided during the four-hour event.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Wooded acreage with modern updates: This well-maintained split level for $225,000 offers three bedrooms, original charm on a two-acre lot with woods, and recent upgrades including a new water heater, furnace, and connection to city water.
Real estate listing image Spacious park-adjacent ready condo: This tastefully updated 2-bed, 2-bath condo in Greenwood Village is listed at $159,900, offering 1,206 square feet of move-in ready space with community amenities and a prime location near Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Real estate listing image Colonial Renovation Balances Old New: Priced at $225,000, this 4-bedroom Colonial offers a blend of timeless character and modern updates, including a new roof, windows, furnace, and an updated kitchen with Corian countertops.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎷 May 16 - Gin & Jazz Night: Step back in time at Bounce Innovation Hub on May 16 for "Perfect Pairings: Gin and Jazz" where The Generator transforms into a swinging Prohibition-era jazz club for one unforgettable night.
🤘 May 16 - ExitWounds Rock The Vortex: ExitWounds brings the noise to The Vortex with their "Screams of Sanity" show! Catch this high-energy performance on May 16 at 5:00 PM at 1167 Brittain Rd, Akron.
🌱 May 17 - Native Plant Festival: Discover the delicious side of native gardening at Munroe Falls Metro Park's Native Plant Festival! Join a naturalist on May 17 to learn how to incorporate attractive, edible native trees and shrubs into your landscape.
🚲 May 17 - Summit Bike & Hike: Pedal and trek through Summit County at the 2025 Let's Move Bike & Hike! Join the outdoor adventure on May 17 at Summit Lake Community Center for a day of scenic exploration.
🏰 May 17 - Grand Ren Faire: Step back in time at the Renaissance Faire at Akron Zoo on May 17! Enjoy whimsical entertainment and enchanted festivities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 500 Edgewood Ave.
🎸 May 18 - Company Live in Akron: Experience the magic of "Company" live at the historic Akron Civic Theatre on Sunday, May 18, 2025. Don't miss this spectacular performance in the heart of downtown Akron!

🙏 In Remembrance

John Clendenen

John E. Clendenen of Akron, Ohio, passed away on May 11, 2025, after battling cancer for a year. Born in Akron and a 1976 graduate of Ellet High School, John was an avid sports enthusiast with special love for the Browns, Guardians, and Cavs, even managing to win his Fantasy Football League during his cancer treatment. He was preceded in death by his parents, several in-laws, and his dogs Roscoe and Chester. John is survived by his sisters Pamela Collinson and Kathy Kessler, who supported him throughout his illness, along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and close friends, with a Celebration of Life planned for later.

John Clendenen

Clifford Steven Johnson

Clifford Steven "Steve" Johnson, 78, of Norton, Ohio, passed away on May 6, 2025, after a life dedicated to education and service. A summa cum laude graduate with degrees in accounting and business administration, Steve worked for 31 years as an auditor for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. He was an avid traveler who visited all 50 states and several continents, and he had a deep appreciation for literature, film, and the simple pleasures of life. Family was paramount to Steve, who generously supported his relatives with his time and care, particularly tending to his mother after his father's passing. He is survived by his siblings, nieces, nephews, and eleven great-nieces and nephews.

Clifford Steven Johnson

John M. Arnett

John M. Arnett, a 93-year-old U.S. Army veteran, passed away peacefully at home on May 10, 2025. Born in Akron, Ohio on November 21, 1931, to George and Evelyn Arnett, John enjoyed 63 years of marriage with his late wife Lyvonne. He was a member of the American Legion Post 645 for over 20 years and the former Goodyear Heights United Methodist Church. John is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and sisters, with services scheduled for May 17 at Newcomer, Akron Chapel.

John M. Arnett

Shirley Sue Robertson

Shirley Sue (Hook) Robertson, 83, of Akron, Ohio, passed away on May 10, 2025. Born in Welch, West Virginia on June 1, 1941, she was a member of Higher Praise Ministries and retired from Akron General Medical Center. She is survived by her four children, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Norman Robertson, her mother Frances Brown, two brothers, and two sisters. Services will be held at Higher Praise Ministries with visitation on May 14 and funeral services on May 15, followed by burial at Hillside Memorial Park.

Shirley Sue Robertson

Sharon Kay Thomas

Sharon Kay Thomas (McGalliard) of Barberton, Ohio, passed away on May 9, 2025, at age 74 after a long battle with COPD. Born in 1950, she worked at Akron General Hospital for over 25 years until retirement. Known for her vibrant personality, Sharon was active in local clubs and cherished time with family and friends. She is survived by her granddaughters, great-grandsons, siblings, and many extended family members, while being preceded in death by her sons, parents, and several siblings.

Sharon Kay Thomas

Louis E. Pinazza

Louis Eugene Pinazza, 91, of Akron, passed away on May 7, 2025, at Hospice Care Center. Born in Irwin, PA, in 1934, he worked as a Pipe Fitter before retirement and was a dedicated member of Milheim Baptist Church. Louis was a devoted husband to Martha for over 50 years until her passing. He is survived by his children, step-children, brother Tony, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, while being preceded in death by his parents, wife, and nine siblings.

Louis E. Pinazza

Frederick I. Metzler Jr.

Frederick I. Metzler Jr., born on April 10, 1937, in Akron, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, at the age of 88. He worked as a foreman and lineman at Ohio Edison until his retirement in 1996, while also serving as secretary of the Utility Workers Union of America and working at the Akron Auto Auction for 16 years. Fred was universally described as an exceptionally kind and generous man who enjoyed simple pleasures like his favorite chair and television, as well as activities such as golfing, skiing, and bowling. He is survived by his wife Priscella, four children, numerous grandchildren, and extended family members who will cherish his memory along with the many friends whose lives he touched.

Frederick I. Metzler Jr.

Sadie Louise Wilson

Sadie Louise Wilson, an 83-year-old resident of Northeast Ohio originally from Alabama, passed away on May 7, 2025. She was an active member of Rootstown United Methodist Church who enjoyed crafting, teaching, spending time with family, and outdoor activities like fishing and camping. Sadie was predeceased by her husband Fred and sister Mary, and is survived by her son, grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. A visitation will be held on May 16 at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, followed immediately by a service, with a private interment to take place later.

Sadie Louise Wilson

Donna Hines

Donna Hines, a lifelong Akron resident, passed away at age 90 on May 9, 2025, surrounded by family. She worked as Director of Medical Records at Interval Brotherhood Home for 32 years until her retirement in 2017 and was a devoted member of Emmanuel Fellowship Church. Donna was known for her deep love for her family, her daily prayers for them, and her enjoyment of summer poolside gatherings and gardening in her later years. Preceded in death by her husband Jack and son John, she is survived by five children, seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, with a funeral service scheduled for May 17, 2025, at Emmanuel Fellowship Church.

Donna Hines

Thomas William Knepp

Thomas William Knepp, 77, passed away on May 12, 2025, after a life marked by service and dedication. A Vietnam veteran who served in the 1st Cavalry, 50th Battalion, he was awarded both the Bronze Star and Purple Heart before building a 30-year career at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. Tom was a devoted father and grandfather who valued family above all, being the eldest of seven brothers. He remained active in veterans' affairs as a member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 717 and is survived by his son, grandchildren, several brothers, and many nieces and nephews.

Thomas William Knepp

Kathleen "Kathy" Bochard

Kathleen Bochard, age 72, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025. Born on July 4, 1952 in Barberton, Ohio, Kathy dedicated her life to her family as a devoted mother to Stephanie, Melissa, and Julie, and as a beloved grandmother to eight grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents Stephen and Helen Nahacky, husband Frank, and son Frankie. Known for her strength, kindness, and compassion, Kathy had a career in nursing and was always willing to help those in need. Visiting hours will be held on May 16, 2025, at the Campfield-Hickman-Collier Funeral Home in Barberton.

Kathleen Kathy Bochard

Goldie A. Stoller

Goldie Stoller, 84, passed away on May 12, 2025, at her home. Born and raised in Wyoming, she married Dave and relocated to Ohio where she became active in the Copley United Methodist Church and the Friends of Children's Hospital in Akron. Goldie enjoyed teaching ceramics, golfing, traveling, and organizing trips to Cleveland Indians games. She is survived by her two sons and their wives, a granddaughter, a great-granddaughter, two sisters, and a brother-in-law, while being preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Goldie A. Stoller

Betty L. Reining

Betty L. Reining died peacefully on May 12, 2025, with her family by her side. She now reunites with her husband Thomas, to whom she was married for 52 years. Betty leaves behind nine children, 15 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren. A private graveside service will be held for the family, followed by a public Celebration of Life on June 1, 2025, with details to be announced later.

Betty L. Reining

John Walczak

John Lee Walczak, a 77-year-old Vietnam veteran and retired machinist, passed away on May 9, 2025. Born in 1947, he was a high school sports standout before joining the Marines and later working at Standard Jig Boring. John was known for his generosity, religious devotion, and various passions including motorcycles, trains, and card games. He is survived by his son Brad, daughters Kelly and Trisha, grandchildren, stepbrothers, and other family members, and was preceded in death by his wife Judy and several immediate family members.

John Walczak

Patricia R. Cash

Patricia passed away on May 11, 2025, after a prolonged struggle with medical conditions, facing her challenges with independence and positivity. A lifelong Akron resident born in Michigan, she was predeceased by her parents, sister, and husband Jerry, and is survived by her daughter Terre and son-in-law Gregory. Patricia enjoyed traveling, fishing, and had a special affection for animals, particularly her dogs who provided her with companionship. After retirement and her husband's passing, she worked at Wal-Mart to remain active and formed meaningful friendships with colleagues. As per her wishes, she will be cremated without funeral services, with memorial donations directed to the Humane Society of Summit County.

Patricia R. Cash

Linda Jensik

Linda Jensik, a nurse for over 40 years, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025, at the age of 71. Born on December 13, 1953, to Bernard and Elizabeth Kirwin, Linda was known as a caring individual who devoted her life to helping others. She enjoyed watching Cleveland sports, traveling, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren who called her "Grandma Teapot." Linda is survived by her son Jonathan, grandchildren Adelyn and Nolyn, several siblings, and many other relatives, while being preceded in death by her husband James, her parents, and her brother David.

Linda Jensik
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