Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Summit County / September 18, 2025

📈 Enrollment bounce

Summit County • September 18, 2025

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Good morning, Summit County. Bucking national trends and defying expectations, Akron University is celebrating a remarkable 3.4% enrollment increase this fall—the first significant uptick in years. While still just half of its 2010 peak, this growth stands in stark contrast to Cleveland State's 7.7% decline, highlighting how some institutions are finding creative pathways forward despite demographic challenges and budget constraints.

Meanwhile, safety takes center stage this weekend as Bridgestone tackles the leading cause of teen deaths with their free "Teens Drive Smart" program at Firestone Stadium. The timing couldn't be better, with Ohio implementing stricter licensing requirements next month for drivers under 21. And for residents in Tallmadge and parts of Akron, Tuesday brings a direct line to local government as Councilwoman Christine Higham hosts office hours at the Tallmadge Branch Library—a perfect opportunity to make your voice heard in District 6.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🎓 Akron University defies enrollment trends with first major increase in years. The school's student count jumped 3.4% this fall, though it's still only half of its 2010 peak. Youngstown State also saw growth, while Cleveland State dropped by 7.7% and Kent State declined by 2%. Universities continue to face challenges including demographic shifts, budget constraints, and international enrollment difficulties under current policies. Despite the mixed results, some institutions are finding success through online programs and targeted academic offerings.

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📅 Summit County Councilwoman opens her doors to the public. Christine Higham will host office hours on Tuesday, October 14 from 5-6pm at the Tallmadge Branch Library. Residents from District 6, which includes Tallmadge and parts of Akron, are welcome to attend on a first-come, first-served basis. The district encompasses Ellet, Goodyear Heights, and North Hill neighborhoods. Those interested can call 330-643-2725 for more information.

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🚗 Free teen driving course tackles leading cause of youth deaths. Bridgestone is offering Akron teens hands-on driving experience this weekend at Firestone Stadium through their "Teens Drive Smart" program. Professional instructors will guide participants through high-risk situations on a closed course, teaching defensive driving and distraction avoidance. The training arrives as Ohio implements stricter licensing laws requiring driver's education for all new drivers under 21 starting next month. With car crashes remaining the leading cause of death among teenagers, both the new law and Bridgestone's program aim to develop crucial skills for safer roads.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Cozy ranch near everything: This charming 3-bedroom ranch for $264,900 offers move-in ready single-level living with finished basement, functional kitchen, primary suite with private bath, and great outdoor space near schools and shopping.
Real estate listing image Lavish four-bedroom suburban retreat: Priced at $800,000, this Twinsburg home in Corbett's Farm community offers refined details throughout, with a sunroom, four bedrooms with walk-in closets, and entertainment spaces including a lower level with a full bar.
Real estate listing image Spacious Colonial Awaits New Family: This charming $319,000 Stow colonial features four upstairs bedrooms, generous living spaces, updated kitchen with stainless appliances, and outdoor relaxation areas including a stone paver patio and covered porch.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎨 Sep. 18 - Summit County Arts Mixer: Welcome artists and arts administrators to the Summit County Arts & Culture Meetup at Mustard Seed Market on September 18. Connect with new faces and reconnect with familiar ones in this casual community gathering.
🍺 Sep. 19 - Falls Oktoberfest Celebration: Raise your stein at the Cuyahoga Falls Oktoberfest! Celebrate with free admission and entertainment at River Front Park on September 19. Prost to good times at 2641 Front Street.
🥘 Sep. 19 - Mountain of Food Distribution: Fill your pantry at OPEN M's Mountain of Food! Drive through for a bulk distribution of free groceries on September 19 at 941 Princeton St, Akron. Happens every third Friday of the month.
🔥 Sep. 20 - Grupo Fuego Latin Festival: Feel the heat at Lock 3 Park when Grupo Fuego brings their sizzling Latin rhythms to Akron Latin Festival on September 20! Join the celebration of "Raíces, Ritmos & Recuerdos" at 200 S Main St.
🗣️ Sep. 20 - Spanish Meetup @ Panera: 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, or on the patio if weather permits.
🍺 Sep. 20 - Oktoberfest Celebration: Raise your steins at Sweetbeats' Oktoberfest Celebration! Dive into beer and bratwurst specials all day on September 20, with live music filling the air at this lively Akron hotspot.
🔥 Sep. 20 - Riverside Campfire Concert: Gather 'round the campfire for acoustic melodies along the Cuyahoga River at Oxbow Landing. Enjoy this cozy evening of music and riverside ambiance on September 20th at 5555 Akron Peninsula Rd, Peninsula.
🎮 Sep. 20 - Nordonia Hills Game Time: Join the fun at Nordonia Hills Game Time! Gather with neighbors for board games and friendly competition at the Nordonia Hills Branch Library on September 20. A perfect way to connect with your community.
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