Akron Podcast

So I went to the "State of the City" (part 3) presentation at the beautiful civic. I didn't know what to expect, but I was surprised by the turnout. A wide variety of Akronites, who were all lead by Kindergarteners to open with the pledge of Allegiance. It was special

The Mayor went through the different things the city has been planning and doing. Was it a pep rally? Sure, but you can ignore the positive things happening in the city. We like to poke fun of those things that aren't, but all in all a lot of...

Welcome to the Akron Podcast, today we have a lot news to cover with restaurant's coming and goings, Cedar Point News, Devo, shootings, and road closures along with the new trash facility and the APS.

PLEASE help support this show. Every little helps. It takes a lot of time, and I do my best to bring local news from all sources and spinkle in some snark to make it fun. Any amount of support is DEEPLY appreciated.

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AI Voices Today For Some of the Show

Kicking off with a mix of sarcasm and sincerity, Dave dives straight into the chaos of recording amidst a symphony of jackhammers. The irony of trying to deliver a podcast with construction noise in the background is not lost on him, and honestly, it sets the perfect tone for what’s to come.

PLEASE help support this show. Every little helps. It takes a lot of time, and I do my best to bring local news from all sources and spinkle in some snark to make it fu...

Lots of news today, along with an extended look at a new report from the Mayor.

If you enjoy the show, please consider supporting the show.

PLEASE help support this show. Every little helps. It takes a lot of time, and I do my best to bring local news from all sources and spinkle in some snark to make it fun. Any amount of support is DEEPLY appreciated.

Takeaways:

Voting This Week in Akron

I’m turning my attention to local politics this week, and honestly, there’s a lot going on with the upcoming primary elections. There’s a real sense of urgency here—between school funding proposals and even changes in polling locations, this isn’t one to sleep on. And yeah, I’ll admit it… low voter turnout is always a little frustrating. It almost feels like an open invitation for the wrong people to sneak through. So consider this my reminder: get out and vote. If nothing else, it’s about making sure our local s...

Congresswoman Emilia Sykes is Bringing Money to the Area

Federal funding is flowing into Summit County, and it’s a mixed bag of good news and head-scratchers. Projects on the docket include a whopping $1.2 million for South Main Street improvements, which will finally make it less of a hazard to navigate. This revamp will include upgraded roads and sidewalks, and maybe even some bike lanes—because who doesn’t love dodging traffic on two wheels?

In Peninsula, another $1.09 million is earmarked for a new sanitary sewer system. Yes, sewer systems. Apparently, this is crucial to protec...

LOUIGI'S FINALLY ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS!

Exciting developments are unfolding in Akron with the announcement that Luigi's Pizza is now accepting credit cards. Yes, you heard that right! This revelation feels like a miracle happening in the middle of June, and it’s about time. We dive deep into the absurdity of a beloved local institution clinging to cash-only transactions for so long. It was like living in the dark ages every time we had to hunt down an ATM just to enjoy a slice of their delicious pizza. The charm of Luigi’s is undeniable, but let’s be r...

Akron School Board

A recent Akron podcast dives deep into the issues plaguing the Akron Public Schools, particularly focusing on the school board's budget dilemma. The board recently rejected a proposal to cut 17 staff positions, which was supposed to save the district about $1.66 million, leaving many to wonder what comes next. Superintendent Mary Outley emphasized the need for substantial cuts, suggesting at least $11 million needs to be trimmed from the $386 million budget. While some board members are keen on making cuts to avoid state fiscal watch, others are hesitant, demanding more data on how job losses would impact students and staff. The episode reveals the tension between immediate financial necessity and...

Welcome to the Akron Podcast where we keep you up to date with what is happening in Akron. This week we are talking the new budget and sharing some of the items that we are spending our money on when we cut the budget. We also have update on some of the popular Akron landmarks.

Takeaways:

Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of chicken and weed, because apparently, that’s what everyone is talking about.

Seriously, who knew these two would become such a hot topic? We also have updates on the towpath, the Inner Belt, and the not-so-welcome news about a recent shooting.

It’s not just the chicken that’s getting fried around here. Plus, we’ll touch on some mixed feelings about new regulations on marijuana use in Ohio and the ongoing construction chaos that will make your daily commute feel like a scavenger hunt.

So, buck...

In today's Akron Podcast, we tackle a whirlwind of topics that range from legislative changes to community events, all while maintaining our signature sarcastic tone.

The Dangerous Dog Law in Akron

We kick things off with a heavy but necessary discussion on Avery's Law, which brings a much-needed overhaul to Ohio's dangerous dog laws. With mandates that include euthanizing dogs involved in attacks and requiring hefty liability insurance for owners, it's a step towards accountability that some might argue is long overdue. Of course, the irony of dog owners now living in fear of their...

Dave Jackson from the School of Podcasting bring some friend along to talk about the latest new in Akron. Including a fire ball, some new stores at the mall, some possible cutbackthat may effect 911, LeBron is suing a local weed store, and part of the concert schedule at Lock 3 has been revealed.

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The Akron Podcast dives into the post-daylight saving time struggle we all love to loathe—the infamous sleep hangover. We chat about how, apparently, the lost hour of sleep is not just a figment of our imaginations. Professor Jessica Farrell, a researcher at Northeast Ohio Medical University, enlightens us on how this biannual time shift messes with our circadian rhythms, leading to all sorts of delightful consequences like sleepiness and, oh joy, increased health risks. Who knew that losing an hour could lead to heart attacks and strokes? It's all fun and games until someone forgets their coffee.

The Akron Council has officially approved Amazon's plan to build a massive fulfillment center on Manchester Road, a decision that had only one dissenting vote. This new facility, which will take over the former Akron Baptist Temple site, is set to deliver products like groceries and pharmaceuticals within 24 hours. Despite the expected increase in traffic, studies suggest it won't significantly impact the area, and interestingly, many deliveries will be made by employees using their own vehicles. In other news, we dive into the controversial Senate Bill 56, which aims to tighten marijuana regulations in Ohio, raising eyebrows among lawmakers and...

A new law in Ohio is on the verge of passing that could make life a little more complicated for marijuana users. It introduces minor penalties for improperly transporting or possessing marijuana, which is a lovely twist in the saga of cannabis legality. While most rights from the 2023 legalization remain intact, the bill could roll back some protections in child custody or professional licensing disputes. So, if you thought driving with a little green in your car was perfectly fine, think again—this could land you a minor misdemeanor and a $150 fine. We’ll also touch on local news, like...

Akron just experienced a whirlwind of changes at the polls, with a significant 79% approving a bill to keep taxes in check. Meanwhile, the Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board also secured funding with a 57% vote. But let’s not forget the city council's decision to grant raises to all non-union city employees, including council members. This comes right after the police union got a hefty wage hike, which is great for morale but raises eyebrows about the city’s budget. With income tax revenue dropping and federal grants disappearing, we’re left wondering how Akron plans to balanc...

Welcome to another episode of the Akron Podcast. If you find value in this show, please consider donating to keep it going.

00:00:00.000 Introduction

00:00:10.960 Mass Shooting at Youth Party in Bath Township

00:02:58.319 Free Metro Rides for SNAP and EBT Cardholders

00:05:16.350 Reduced Dog Adoption Fees at Summit County Animal Control

00:06:34.694 Mr. Fun's Store Closing After Decades

00:07:34.040 Proposals to Repurpose Historic Firestone Building for Police

00:08:38.100 New Nonstop Flights from Akron-Canton Airport

00:10:36.019 Wicked Costumes Exhibit at Kent State University Museum

00:11:30.500 Akron Stories Documentary Screening

This week, I want to remind you how important it is to get out and vote in the upcoming local election. Even though it’s not a presidential race, it’s our civic duty to make our voices heard—especially since lower turnout can allow unpopular measures to slip through.

On the ballot, you’ll find Issue 2, a proposed charter amendment that protects property owners by capping annual tax assessment increases at 3%. There’s also a renewal (plus a small 0.5 mil increase) for the Summit County Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services levy, which hasn’t seen a raise...

We dive into the chaos of Akron's upcoming events, starting with the all-important leaf collection schedule. Leaves are set to be collected from Ward 3 starting November 3rd, and let’s hope they’re not buried under snow by then, right? We also discuss the city's trick-or-treating plans, which have apparently caused some confusion—because who doesn't love a good scheduling mix-up? Oh, and if you’re looking for some thrilling news, we touch on a recent shooting incident that left a 21-year-old hospitalized, just to add a little spice to our usual banter. Join us as we navigate through parades...

The Akron podcast covers a variety of topics in a refreshingly candid manner, starting with the less-than-stellar performance of LeBron James' I PROMISE School. The hosts discuss the unfortunate reality of the education system, where not a single eighth grader passed the state math test. The statistics are shocking, and the hosts can't help but highlight the irony of a school that was intended to inspire struggling students now facing such dire outcomes. They question the effectiveness of policies that allow students to simply walk out of class, pointing out the absurdity of expecting success under such circumstances. The...

The Akron Podcast dives into several pressing local issues that impact the community, starting with a discussion about whether the $17 million investment into Lock 3 is paying off. With the park attracting an estimated 85,000 visitors for various events, including the Akron Pride Festival, the podcast hosts analyze if the increased foot traffic and economic benefits justify the funding. They candidly question the aesthetic improvements versus tangible returns, ensuring listeners are left pondering the true value of such public projects. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of community investments and how they can shape local culture and economy.

Takeaways:

Links referenced in this episode:

There's a big change coming to Gorge Park that you might want to check out before it happens. In about two weeks, they’re starting a two-year project to remove a whopping eleven football fields' worth of sediment from the waterfall area. So, if you're hoping to enjoy the view, now's the time to go, because who knows what they'll rope off when the construction kicks in. On a different note, we dive into the local crime scene where, surprise, surprise, it turns out crime isn’t actually down, despite what the officials may claim. Oh, and if you're crav...

Akron’s fire and EMS services just snagged the Mission Lifeline Gold Achievement Award from the American Heart Association, proving that if you happen to have a heart attack or stroke, you’re in pretty good hands here. It’s refreshing to hear some good news for a change, right? We also dive into the excitement of a new splash pad at Elizabeth Park, which promises 2,600 square feet of sheer joy for kids. And if you’re in the mood for entertainment, Steve Martin and Martin Short are gracing the Civic Theater soon, while we also touch on the new Sire...

Akron is stepping up to help hungry kids this summer with free meals, starting June 9, for those 18 and under who qualify. This initiative will run Monday through Friday until August 1, ensuring that eligible youth, especially those from families receiving food assistance, won’t go hungry. Meanwhile, it seems like the local dining scene is getting a bit of a reality check, with several restaurants landing on the Wall of Widges for health violations. Oh, and if you’re planning a trip to Cedar Point, you might want to check if it’s midge season first—because nothing says fun like bei...

The Mayor of Akron, Shammas Malik, delivered a compelling state of the city address, marking a significant moment for our community. He highlighted the progress made under his administration and laid out a bold vision for the future of Akron. Among the exciting news, three blimps celebrated the centennial of the Goodyear blimp, adding a festive touch to the event. Malik's focus remains on building a safer, stronger, and more equitable city for all residents, emphasizing transparency and community engagement in his plans. It's a time for Akron to come together, face challenges head-on, and continue the hard work...

The blimps are coming to Akron! Yes, you heard that right. Three blimps will be floating over our city to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first blimp flight. We’ll dive into the details of when and where you can catch these majestic airships in action, including during the mayor's State of the City address and a Rubber Ducks game. But that's not all; we’ll also tackle some serious topics, like hazardous waste disposal, because who doesn't love a good convo about batteries and oil-based paints? Plus, we’ll check out a cool exhibit at the Rock Hall a...

Wayne Dawson is back in the news, but not for his usual morning TV gig—he's opening a pot dispensary in Akron. Yes, you heard that right; Steinle's restaurant is being transformed into a marijuana haven. Meanwhile, Metro RTA is offering free rides on weekends this summer, which is great because who doesn't love free stuff? On a more serious note, Akron's mayor and police are still squabbling over officer pay, while we collectively ponder why shooting each other seems to be a popular pastime. And if you're planning to hit up Blossom for a concert, be prepared for a...

Ohio has decided that students and their cell phones should take a break during school hours, as the Senate just voted to implement a ban starting September 1st. While supporters argue this will boost student engagement and minimize distractions, opponents are concerned about how kids will communicate with parents during emergencies. Honestly, it's almost like they forgot that we used to have landlines for that. In other news, Cedar Point is attempting to spice up its live entertainment by bringing in comedians who probably have more talent in their pinky fingers than I do in my entire body. Spoiler...

We've got some big news on the Akron Podcast today: crime is still a hot topic, despite the mayor's optimistic claims. While we might have thought gun violence was down, a recent shooting at a party proves otherwise. And just when you think it can't get worse, there's a wild story about a stabbing involving a pit bull—yes, you heard that right. But it's not all doom and gloom; we're also talking about some exciting developments, like the return of Big Lots to the area and a giveaway for free Akron Rubber Ducks baseball tickets. So, if you're in...

The superintendent of Akron Public Schools is officially out, and we’re left with a $200,000 payout to show for it. Mark Robinson’s tenure ended amid allegations of bullying his staff and making some truly questionable choices, including threatening board members' families. Meanwhile, Ohio's ongoing ban on gender-affirming care for minors is still a hot topic, with legal battles in the works as the ACLU steps in. On the bright side, crime stats in Akron are showing some improvement, with notable declines in shootings and assaults, although reported rapes are up. We also touch on the state’s plans to ref...

The main focus today is the upcoming meeting on April 29 called "Designing Akron's Future," where local creatives can share their ideas for a new city logo. We’ll hear from notable partners and city representatives about how community insights will actually influence this design process. It's a chance for all you graphic designers, community artists, and anyone who cares about Akron’s visual identity to get involved. On a lighter note, we also dive into some recent local absurdities, like a student fight at a school involving a Stanley Cup—no, not the trophy, but a very unfortunate stainless steel...

The big news in Akron this week is the sudden leave of Superintendent Dr. Michael Robinson from Akron Public Schools, which has everyone buzzing. Meanwhile, Mary Outley steps in as the interim superintendent (again), and the Mayor is optimistic about the future of the school district.

Also on the agenda, we'll discuss the city’s quest for a new logo—because apparently, the last one didn't quite cut it. And if you thought the city was done with all the logo drama, think again; we’re forming subcommittees now!

Plus, we’ll touch on some exciting...

Akron is buzzing with news this week, and we’ve got all the juicy details.

Akron Taxes Due

First off, let’s talk about taxes. If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, well, I don’t know what to say—like, do you really think the IRS is going to take pity on you? You can’t complain about potholes if you’re not doing your part, right?

North Main Street Open Discussion

Speaking of potholes, the city is hosting an open house on April 16 at the North Hill Branch Library to dis...

Grant Money for Small Businesses

Entrepreneurs and small business owners can visit https://bit.ly/3FfsT8J or call 2-1-1 to make a FEC financial counseling appointment.

Shooting at Field House Lounge

Two people in critical condition. Do we blame Boosie?

Clean Slate Event

SUMMIT COUNTY JUVENILE EXPUNGEMENT

CLINIC

Juvenile records are not automatically sealed at the age of 18.

Unless sealed, juvenile records may appear on background checks

for employment or housing.

MARCH 15, 2025

9 AM - 12 PM

The Akron City Council meeting offers a revealing glimpse into the local governance, where residents voice urgent concerns about police accountability and public safety. We dive into the absurdity of public comments, where citizens passionately address issues like police violence, yet the council seems to treat these grave matters like an uncomfortable formality.

It’s almost as if feedback is a luxury they can choose to ignore. We highlight the stark contrast between the emotional weight of the testimonies and the council's detached responses, which often feel like they’re just checking off a box.

Buck...

The Akron podcast dives into the exciting transformation of the Linda Theater, shifting from showing first-run movies to live entertainment. This change is about as groundbreaking as, well, watching paint dry, but at least we’ll get to see Bernie Kozar live at the reopening. I mean, who doesn’t want to hear a former football player talk? Future plans include concerts and comedy shows, which could either be a blast or just another excuse to watch tribute bands butcher classics. We also chat about the new My Akron 311 app, which lets residents report everything from potholes to, I don...

Ohio lawmakers are gearing up to make significant changes to the state's voter-approved recreational marijuana law through Senate Bill 56, which could raise the excise tax on marijuana and implement several restrictions. The proposed bill aims to cut the number of home-grown plants from 12 to 6, limit dispensaries to 350 locations, and ban smoking and vaping in public spaces. Critics argue that these changes could destabilize a thriving market that has already generated $300 million in sales, raising concerns about the uncertainty it creates for businesses and consumers alike. Additionally, the episode touches on the troubling news surrounding Joann Fabrics, which is facing...

The latest Akron Podcast dives into the exciting launch of the Downtown Akron Development Corporation, a new initiative aimed at revitalizing the city's downtown area. With a significant funding boost of $360,000 per year for three years, this organization will focus on key priorities such as increasing residential development, establishing a convention center hotel, and expanding retail options. Host discussions highlight the essential role of an executive director dedicated to transforming these plans into reality, backed by potential matching funds from the Knight Foundation. The episode also addresses the pressing issue of food deserts in downtown Akron, as the hosts...

This episode of the Akron Podcast discusses the important bond issue on the upcoming ballot that aims to fund a significant renovation of the Akron Summit County Public Library system. As the library infrastructure ages, community leaders are advocating for updates to ensure the libraries remain relevant in the 21st century, responding to the evolving needs of residents.

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