Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Summit County / May 22, 2025

🚌 Free ride summer

Summit County • May 22, 2025

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Good morning, Summit County. Summer just got a little sweeter for local travelers as METRO RTA brings back its popular "Free Fare Summer Weekends" program. Starting June 1, residents can hop aboard any of 22 routes absolutely free every Saturday and Sunday through August – perfectly timed with Akron's 200th birthday celebrations. And speaking of summer savings, Live Nation's $30 all-inclusive concert ticket deal might be music to your wallet, with over 1,000 shows featuring everyone from Willie Nelson to Weird Al Yankovic.

The season's flavors are getting an upgrade too, as Akron's beloved Swensons Drive-In joins forces with hometown hero and James Beard semifinalist Chef Vinnie Cimino. Their limited-edition Pimento Burger, complete with green Kool-Aid Pickles (yes, you read that correctly), arrives June 1. It's a delicious collision of nostalgic comfort food and culinary innovation that proves even after 90 years, there's always room for a fresh twist on tradition.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🚌 Free weekend bus rides return to Akron this summer. METRO RTA is offering free Saturday and Sunday service on 22 routes throughout June, July, and August. This marks the fourth year of the "Free Fare Summer Weekends" program, providing 27 days of complimentary transportation. The initiative coincides with Akron's 200th anniversary celebration and aims to remove transportation barriers for community events. METRO ADA riders will also qualify for the free weekend rides, which begin June 1 and end August 31.

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🎵 Live Nation's summer deal brings $30 concert tickets to Cleveland. The promotion includes over 1,000 shows at venues like Blossom Music Center and Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre, with no hidden fees. Music fans can enjoy diverse artists including Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Kesha, Weird Al Yankovic, and Pantera throughout the summer. The ticket sale begins May 21st at 10am and will continue with more shows added as the season progresses. Northeast Ohioans can "rock out all summer long in a financially prudent manner" regardless of musical taste.

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🍔 Akron's iconic Swensons teams up with James Beard chef for culinary magic. The legendary drive-in burger joint is collaborating with Akron-born chef Vinnie Cimino on a limited-time Pimento Burger featuring signature Pimento Cheese and green Kool-Aid Pickles. Starting June 1, the special burger will be available at all Swensons locations, while Cimino's Cleveland restaurant Cordelia will simultaneously offer Swensons-inspired dishes. The partnership celebrates Ohio's culinary heritage while introducing innovative flavors to the 90-year-old brand. "Growing up in Akron, Swensons wasn't just a restaurant—it was woven into the fabric of my childhood memories," said Cimino, a 2024 James Beard Semifinalist.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Spacious Colonial maintenance-free backyard: This charming two-story Colonial home, listed at $329,000, features a maintenance-free exterior, fenced backyard, and an open concept design perfect for entertaining, along with a finished lower level providing extra living space.
Real estate listing image Hudson Park Luxury Estate Awaits: This Hudson Park Estates home offers luxurious living at $849,000, featuring five bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen with stainless appliances, sunroom, four-car garage, and spacious recreation rooms with included amenities.
Real estate listing image Colonial retreat with doggie spa: Priced at $410,000, this Colonial home in Hudson features brand new carpeting, a granite kitchen, wood-burning fireplace, large bedrooms, and an outdoor oasis complete with a heated doghouse, all within minutes of downtown and top-rated schools.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎵 May 22 - Austin Awake: Big Trip: Catch rising New York artist Big Trip at The Vortex on May 22! Experience his captivating storytelling and melodic craftsmanship as he brings his undeniable audience connection to Akron's favorite venue.
🐉 May 22 - Angie Haze Time Machine: Join The Angie Haze Annual Time Machine Shows as they honor beloved Luck Dragon Reggio Geppetto at The Rialto Theatre on May 22. Celebrate the unconditional love of furry companions with this heartwarming musical tribute.
⚾ May 23 - Curve vs. RubberDucks: Catch all the Minor League action as the Altoona Curve takes on our hometown Akron RubberDucks at Canal Park on May 23! Perfect for families looking for affordable outdoor entertainment.
🚚 May 24 - Highland Square Food Fest: Hungry for adventure? The first annual Highland Square Food Truck Festival rolls into Akron Civic Theatre on May 24, serving up delicious street eats and community vibes at 182 S Main St.
🗣️ May 24 - Spanish Meetup @ Panera: Practice your español at the Summit County Spanish Language Meetup, gathering weekly at Panera Bread on Howe Ave. Join fellow language enthusiasts May 24 in the meeting room or patio, weather permitting!
🎵 May 24 - Ellie Williams Live: Catch rising star Ellie Williams as she takes the stage at Jilly's Music Room in Akron on May 24. Doors open at 7:00 PM for this intimate musical evening you won't want to miss!
🎷 May 24 - Banda Kebradora Live: Feel the vibrant rhythms of Banda La KEBRADORA live at Royal Palace on May 24! This exciting San Agustín Jalisco ensemble brings authentic Mexican sounds to Akron starting at 9PM. Don't miss it!

🙏 In Remembrance

William Charles "Bill" Miller

William Charles "Bill" Miller, born April 13, 1937, in Chicago, passed away on May 17, 2025, in Akron, Ohio at the age of 88. Throughout his varied career, Bill taught English, worked as a newspaper editor, served as a sales and marketing manager at Clauss Cutlery Company, and even began a second career at Walmart at age 70. He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Dr. Kateri Miller, along with his children, stepson, grandchildren, siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was a dedicated family man, gifted writer who authored a family history book, and a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus.

Susan Larue Craft

Susan Larue Craft (Frech) passed away on May 6, 2025. She was a lifelong artist who graduated from Tallmadge High School in 1980 and enjoyed crocheting and gardening with her dog Buddy. She is survived by her three children, six grandchildren, one great-grandchild, her mother, and her siblings. A celebration of life will be announced later, and the family requests donations to Chihuahua Rescue in lieu of flowers.

Susan Larue Craft

Martha Lee Meconi

Martha Lee Apple Meconi, 76, of Akron, Ohio, passed away on May 18, 2025, leaving behind her husband Tony, three daughters, and four grandchildren. She dedicated over 30 years to teaching mathematics at The University of Akron while also sharing her love of music as a harp instructor. Martha was a multi-talented individual who excelled as a calligrapher, harpist, puzzle enthusiast, and card maker. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, extraordinary talents, and the unwavering love she showed to family and friends throughout her life.

Martha Lee Meconi

Norma Jean Criner

Norma Jean Criner, born August 30, 1934, passed away on May 13, 2025, after a lifetime in Akron. She was an artist with a strong character and lively spirit who worked hard as a factory worker for Coke. Norma was preceded in death by her parents, two sons, two sisters, and a brother, but leaves behind a daughter, a son, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. A visitation will be held on May 22, 2025, at Hecker-Patron Funeral Home, followed by a service and interment at Hillside Memorial Park.

Norma Jean Criner

James Allen Stefanko Jr.

James A. Stefanko, Jr., 72, passed away on May 17th after a life spent as a truck driver for over 30 years. He is survived by his wife Wendie of 50 years, his son, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and numerous other family members and friends. Jim enjoyed fishing and visiting the American Legion and Eagles in his spare time. The family expressed gratitude to Summa Hospice, Post Acute Care staff, and Pastor Mike for their care. A Celebration of Life service will be held on June 7th at the American Legion in Akron.

James Allen Stefanko Jr.

Thomas James Long

Thomas James Long, 75, of Aurora and formerly Hudson, passed away on May 17, 2025, leaving behind his wife of 51 years, Kathleen, three children, and seven grandchildren. After growing up in Pennsylvania and graduating from Youngstown College, Tom worked in sales and lived in various cities, though he considered Hudson his true home. He had a profound love for baseball, attending the College World Series regularly and dedicating 13 years to managing the Kiwanis Summer Baseball program, which led to Field A at Barlow Farm Park being named in his honor. A memorial gathering will be held on May 22, 2025, at Busch-Romito Funeral Home in Hudson, with the family suggesting donations to the Hudson Kiwanis Club Baseball Program in lieu of flowers.

Thomas James Long

Jeffrey M Crowell

Jeffrey M. Crowell, born in Amherst, Ohio in 1969, passed away on March 5, 2025, while residing in Uniontown, Ohio. A University of Michigan graduate, Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, Susan Meuser and James Crowell. He is survived by his daughter Sylvie Crowell and numerous friends and family across multiple states. His loved ones are spread throughout Ohio, Pennsylvania, California, and North Carolina.

Jeffrey M Crowell

John Cousins Sullivan

John Cousins "Sully" Sullivan passed away at age 63 on May 14, 2025, in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. Born in 1961, he grew up in Northfield and Copley before settling in Cuyahoga Falls and later retiring from his shipping job at Diebold. He is survived by his daughter Samantha and three siblings, while being preceded in death by his parents. A memorial will be announced soon, with donations requested to the Sons of the American Legion Post 281 rather than flowers.

John Cousins Sullivan

John Robert Sauner

John Robert Sauner, born on February 11, 1963, in Ravenna, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025. He was married to Christine for nearly 25 years after meeting on a blind date in 1997, and was known for his devotion to family, his 26-year career at Flagstar Bank, and his love of scuba diving, baking, and Ohio State football. A devoted Christian, John leaves behind his wife Christine, son David, daughter Natalie, his mother Betty, siblings, and five granddaughters who called him Papa. His legacy of faith, kindness, and family values will continue to inspire all who knew him.

John Robert Sauner

Kathern T. Refi

Kathern T. Refi, 83, passed away on May 18, 2025, after being born in Akron, Ohio in 1942. She worked for Goodrich for 20 years before retiring from the Summit County Juvenile Detention Center. Known for her warmth, cooking talents, love of animals, and outdoor activities, Kathern's greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren. She is survived by her daughters, grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, a niece, and her best friend, with cremation taking place according to her wishes.

Kathern T. Refi

Louise Ann Gaitan

Louise Ann Gaitan, 83, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, after 59 years of marriage to Carmen Gaitan, with whom she raised four children. Known for her caring nature, Christian values, and quiet humor, she enjoyed activities like vacationing, swimming, puzzles, and especially family time. Louise worked as a bookkeeper at AmeriGas, later at Heinen's in Aurora, and was a devoted caregiver to many children. She is survived by her four children, eight grandchildren, two brothers, and a brother-in-law, with her family requesting donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in her memory.

Louise Ann Gaitan

Mary Lou Hayward-Brown

Mary Lou Hayward-Brown passed away on May 17, 2025, at home with her daughter and daughter-in-law by her side. She is survived by her son Brett and daughter Lisa, their spouses, and her four beloved grandchildren. A proud 1966 graduate of North High, Mary Lou was dedicated to organizing class reunions and maintained many lifelong friendships spanning over 70 years. Her family has requested donations to Town Square Hospice in her memory, with a celebration of her life scheduled for May 27, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home.

Robert G. Knicely

Robert G. Knicely, known as "Gunny," passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, at age 73. He served 16 years in the United States Marine Corps, including during Vietnam and Desert Storm, maintaining his pride as a Marine throughout his life. Preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, he is survived by a sister, brother, two sons, two grandsons, and numerous nieces and nephews. The family expressed gratitude to Pleasant View Healthcare Center and Summa Barberton Hospital for their compassionate care during his final days, with visitation scheduled for May 22, 2025, at Cox-McNulty Funeral Home.

Robert G. Knicely

Thomas Joseph Coyne

Thomas Joseph Coyne, Jr., a 91-year-old Korean War veteran with dual US-Irish citizenship, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025. He had a distinguished career as both a tenured professor of finance and economics and as the founder of investment banking firm Coyne and Associates, Inc., while also serving as an arbitrator for the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. Coyne earned multiple advanced degrees, including a Ph.D. from Case Western Reserve University, while demonstrating remarkable determination by working full-time jobs during his educational pursuits. He is survived by his sister, three sons, one daughter, twelve grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, having been preceded in death by his daughter Karen, brother Donald, and sister Helen.

Thomas Joseph Coyne

Loretto Jean Rees

Loretto Jean Rees, born on April 2, 1943, in Barberton, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on May 18, 2025, at age 82. A graduate of Barberton High School and Robert Fiance Beauty School, she spent her life as a beautician while pursuing passions for art, animal welfare, and travel. Loretto was known for being loving, funny, stubborn, faithful, and politically spirited, as well as a devoted Catholic, wife, mother, and grandmother. She is now reunited with her husband of 44 years, Richard J Rees, and is survived by her daughters, grandson, son-in-law, and "son-in-love," as well as extended family and friends.

Loretto Jean Rees
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