November 5, 2024, marks an engaging episode of the Akron Podcast, where listeners are welcomed with the excitement of civic engagement and local happenings. The show kicks off with a reminder for voters about the importance of participating in the elections, noting poll hours and providing links for those unsure of their voting locations. Beyond the ballots, the episode introduces Swenson's, an iconic Akron eatery, celebrating the season with their limited-time Thanksgiving on a Bun sandwich. This festive offering includes a turkey burger adorned with Swiss cheese, stuffing, and cranberry mayo, paired with sweet potato waffle fries—a culinary delight that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving while highlighting local businesses. The episode further explores Swenson's 90th anniversary, emphasizing the restaurant's legacy and community involvement.

Transitioning from food to leisure, the episode marks the opening of Topgolf Akron, a rebranded venue promising entertainment for golf enthusiasts. Listeners are treated to a description of the unique experience offered at Topgolf, including the technology that tracks swings and distances, making it an inviting space for both beginners and pros. However, the podcast does not shy away from addressing the more serious aspects of community life, discussing recent incidents of violence in Akron. The tone shifts as the host reflects on tragic events, urging a collective reconsideration of community engagement and safety. This juxtaposition of festive local culture with pressing social issues paints a vibrant yet sobering portrait of Akron life.

The episode also dives into pressing financial matters within the State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio, revealing the controversial exit package of Bill Neville amidst public discontent and calls for reform. The discussion touches on themes of accountability, highlighting the disparity between executive compensation and the financial struggles faced by teachers and retirees. This segment serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges within educational systems and the importance of transparency. As the episode wraps up, listeners are invited to the Akron Children's Hospital annual Holiday Tree Festival, an event that encapsulates the spirit of giving and community support, offering a chance for families to engage in holiday festivities while contributing to a good cause. Through a blend of celebration, civic duty, and critical social commentary, the Akron Podcast for November 5 provides a rich tapestry of the community's current landscape.

Takeaways:

• Swenson's is offering a Thanksgiving on a Bun Sandwich featuring turkey, Swiss cheese, stuffing, and cranberry mayo until December 1st.
• Topgolf has opened at the former Firestone Golf location, providing a new entertainment option for Akron residents.
• Recent violence in Akron resulted in multiple shootings over the weekend, raising community concerns.
• Legislation is being proposed for police body cameras in Akron to enhance accountability and transparency.
• The Akron Children's Hospital Holiday Tree Festival will feature 165 decorated trees and is free to the public.
• A $1.65 million exit package for a controversial STRS executive has sparked outcry over public spending.

Links referenced in this episode:

• akronpodcast.com
• Acorns Online Banking
• 1.65 Exit Package
• Akron Killings Map

Mentioned in this...

In a proactive step against gun violence, Akron City Council has approved new funding for a violence prevention program, set to launch in January 2025. Following a recent surge in local shootings, the council will use nearly $185,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act to hire three 'credible messengers'—individuals with criminal pasts who’ve since turned their lives around. These messengers will work with street teams to identify potential violence hotspots using Akron Police Department shooting reports. Public Safety Strategist Tony Ingram explains that these teams will build relationships with high-risk individuals, families, and communities, aiming to prevent violence before it escalates and curb retaliations after incidents.

It was just past 1 a.m. on October 20th when what started as an average night in Highland Square took a sudden turn. Residents were jolted by the sound of an Akron police cruiser crashing into a parked car on West Market Street, setting off a chain reaction that left four cars damaged.

Among those affected was Steven Rockich, a bartender at Square Nightclub, who discovered his car—a 2010 Mazda 3—smashed beyond repair. 'It looked like an accordion,' Rockich shared, now left without reliable transportation and waiting for some form of accountability.

Help him get a new car, cause so far the cops aren't helping. If you are interested in donating, click here.

Issues 41 and 42

ISSUE 41

Certain family members of classified employees who earn at least $80,000 a year are prohibited from working for the county under the existing charter.

Issue 41 proposes three changes to Article V of the charter, where that rule is codified. The first change would clarify that the rule only applies to relatives of employees in county charter offices — those include the county executive, the county fiscal officer, the county prosecutor, the clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, the county engineer, the county sheriff and the members of the County Council, said Greta Johnson, a public information officer for the Summit County Executive’s office.

ISSUE 42

Issue 42 seeks to amend the county charter to require all county offices, agencies, authorities, boards and commissions to submit estimated revenues and proposed expenditures annually rather than quarterly.

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This episode provides crucial information about Akron's leaf removal schedule, ensuring residents are prepared for the upcoming season. The hosts discuss how each ward in Akron has different leaf pickup dates, emphasizing the importance of knowing your specific ward to avoid missing the collection. Listeners will learn how to easily find their ward through the Akron City Council website, which offers a straightforward mapping tool. Additionally, the episode outlines essential rules for leaf disposal, such as placing leaves no more than two feet from the curb and avoiding mixing yard waste. Following these guidelines, residents can ensure a stress-free and efficient leaf pickup season, keeping their streets clean and clear for the city crews.

Takeaways:

• The leaf removal schedule in Akron varies by ward, so knowing your ward is crucial.
• Residents should check the Akron City Council website for a ward map.
• Leaves must be placed no more than two feet from the curb for pickup.
• Only leaves are accepted for pickup; no branches or yard waste should be included.
• During leaf collection, vehicles should be removed from the street to facilitate the process.
• Mark your leaf pickup date on your calendar to avoid missing the collection.

SCHEDULE

Find your Ward At https://www.akroncitycouncil.org/find-my-ward

November 4: Leaf pickup in Ward 5.

November 6: Leaf pickup in Ward 3.

November 8: Leaf pickup in Ward 9.

November 12: Leaf pickup in Ward 7.

November 15: Leaf pickup in Ward 6.

November 19: Leaf pickup in Ward 4.

November 25: Leaf pickup in Ward 8.

December 4: Leaf pickup in Ward 1.

December 7: Leaf pickup in Ward 2.

December 11: Leaf pickup in Ward 10.

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When I purchase something, Acrons rounds up to the nearest dollar and I earn interest on that. It's a simple (almost invisible) way to save money. I switched all my banking to Acorns. They even have tools to help me teach my kids to be financially responsible. Use the link below and sign up today!

Acorns Online Banking

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Join the School of Podcasting When you join the School of Podcasting you can quit worrying about: Are people going to listen to me? (Yes, cause I'll show you how to see what they want). Am I going to sound stupid? (No, as I'll show you the magic of editing) It will cost a million dollars (No, I'll have you sounding like a million bucks without spending a million bucks). I don't anything about this technology (You said the same thing about driving). Get access to: Step-by-step tutorials, live group coaching, a mastermind group filled with brilliant podcasting minds, and the ability to schedule as many one-on-one quick fix calls as you like at no extra charge. Join worry-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee Go to...

Akron City Council voted 10-3 Monday night to move forward on a heavily contested plan to build a modern waste transfer station at a different site than its current operations.

The three council members who voted against the proposal were Johnnie Hannah (Ward 5), Margo Sommerville (Ward 3) and Jan Davis (Ward 4).

We are told, "it won't smell..."

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Is Your Bank Paying You Interest? Acorns Does!

When I purchase something, Acrons rounds up to the nearest dollar and I earn interest on that. It's a simple (almost invisible) way to save money. I switched all my banking to Acorns. They even have tools to help me teach my kids to be financially responsible. Use the link below and sign up today!

Acorns Online Banking

Today, we introduce two AI Anchors that help me share information. While they are not real, they sound real and will help me consistently get more information out.

Today, you will hear about a ruling on the Police shooting from April 1st. Also, there has been an update on who pays the settlement for Jaylon Walker and how much it is.

Go to www.akronpodcast.com/voicemail

Beacon Journal on Jaylon Walker

Findings on April 1 shooting.

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Join the School of Podcasting When you join the School of Podcasting you can quit worrying about: Are people going to listen to me? (Yes, cause I'll show you how to see what they want). Am I going to sound stupid? (No, as I'll show you the magic of editing) It will cost a million dollars (No, I'll have you sounding like a million bucks without spending a million bucks). I don't anything about this technology (You said the same thing about driving). Get access to: Step-by-step tutorials, live group coaching, a mastermind group filled with brilliant podcasting minds, and the ability to schedule as many one-on-one quick fix calls as you like at no extra charge. Join worry-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/akron

Share the Show With a Friend

If you know someone who would like the Akron Podcast, please share it with them, or tell them to go to AkronPodcast.com If you can support the show, go to www.akronpodcast.com/value

Is Your Bank Paying You Interest? Acorns Does!

When I purchase something, Acrons rounds up to the nearest dollar and I earn interest on that. It's a simple (almost invisible) way to save money. I switched all my banking to Acorns. They even have tools to help me teach my kids to be financially responsible. Use the link below and sign up today!

Acorns Online Banking

At an Akron City Council meeting, Brian Lucey, representing Akron's Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7, stated the union's willingness to engage in discussions on police reform, offering to meet with anyone at any time for this purpose. Lucey's remarks were prompted by Councilman James Hardy's suggestion to pause discussions on a new police headquarters until reform is achieved. Councilwoman Jan Davis echoed the need for dialogue on policing in Akron.

Hardy expressed support for Davis' call for reform-oriented conversations, indicating his intention to vote against funding for a new police department until meaningful reform discussions take place. He emphasized the importance of involving all stakeholders in these talks and advocated for a new standard for police-community relations.

Lucey accused Hardy of supporting police defunding, which Hardy refuted, citing his past support for police funding increases. Hardy emphasized the necessity of rethinking the current approach to policing and promoting constructive dialogue rather than divisive rhetoric.

Both Hardy and Davis emphasized the importance of involving Akron's underserved communities in reform discussions and expressed readiness to collaborate with the union and other stakeholders to initiate proactive conversations aimed at positive change.

Parasson's Closing All But One Location

Parasson's is closing all of their locations except for the on on Waterloo road. The Stow location on Darrow Road closed last Saturday, and the Barberton location at 234 Wooster Road. So if you want some of their yummy garlic bread, you need to visit the Waterloo road location.

Fortunately, according to the University of Connecticut, Ohio is not in the path of the two broods set to emerge across much of the Southeast and Midwest.

according to the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Beginning 5 a.m. Wednesday, South Street eastbound from state Route 93/Manchester Road will be closed through early September. The detour will be Thornton Street to Rhodes Street to Lakeshore Boulevard to South Street.

Beginning 7 p.m. Friday, SR 93/Manchester Road at South Street will be closed until 7 a.m. Saturday morning for a bridge deck pour. The northbound detour will be Kenmore Boulevard to Lakeshore Boulevard to Thornton Street. The southbound detour will be Thornton Street to Rhodes Street to Lakeshore Boulevard to South Street.

Other New traffic patterns

According to the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Beginning 5 a.m. Wednesday, South Street eastbound from state Route 93/Manchester Road will be closed through early September. The detour will be Thornton Street to Rhodes Street to Lakeshore Boulevard to South Street.

Beginning 7 p.m. Friday, SR 93/Manchester Road at South Street will be closed until 7 a.m. Saturday morning for a bridge deck pour. The northbound detour will be Kenmore Boulevard to Lakeshore Boulevard to Thornton Street. The southbound detour will be Thornton Street to Rhodes Street to Lakeshore Boulevard to South Street.

Other new traffic patterns

At 8 p.m. Friday, state Route 21 northbound under Interstate 77 in Copley Township will be closed through 5 a.m. May 6 for bridge work. The detour will be I-77 southbound to Ridgewood Road to I-77 northbound.

State Route 303 east of I-77 is also closed for pavement repairs. The detour is Interstate 271 to I-77 to state Route 176 to SR 303.

Fox 8 meteorologist Andre Bernier will give his final forecast on May 22, retiring after more than 36 years with the television station.

Andre Bernier announced his retirement on the same day as his birthday.

The second phase of the Rubber City Heritage Trail will include 10-foot...

Welcome back to the Akron Podcast, where we tackle the tough stories affecting our community. Today is April 11th, 2024, and we have a difficult topic. This isn't an April Fool's Day prank—it's a serious incident involving Tavion Koonce-Williams, a 15-year-old East High School student whom an Akron police officer shot under contentious circumstances.

Reports indicate that Williams was carrying what appeared to be a gun—but was later revealed to be a toy—as he was walking home. A concerned citizen's call to the police led to a confrontation that ended with Williams being shot in the hand by Officer Ryan Westlake, a cop with a checkered past, including being previously fired and reinstated.

The bodycam footage is out for public scrutiny and raises alarming concerns. Why do our teens feel the need to carry fake guns for protection? And why was Officer Westlake, with a history of unprofessional conduct, allowed back on the force, only to be involved in another controversial shooting? We'll delve into Westlake's disciplinary record, examine the city's handling of the case, and look at how this repeats patterns we've seen in previous incidents.

It's a tragic story with far-reaching implications, and it leaves us asking hard questions about police accountability, community safety, and the deep-seated issues that lead to such incidents. Join us as we explore this crucial matter on the Akron Podcast.

Sources:

https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/news/2024/04/08/akron-police-officer-who-shot-teen-was-fired-reinstated-in-2021/73242042007/

Mentioned in this episode:

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Join the School of Podcasting When you join the School of Podcasting you can quit worrying about: Are people going to listen to me? (Yes, cause I'll show you how to see what they want). Am I going to sound stupid? (No, as I'll show you the magic of editing) It will cost a million dollars (No, I'll have you sounding like a million bucks without spending a million bucks). I don't anything about this technology (You said the same thing about driving). Get access to: Step-by-step tutorials, live group coaching, a mastermind group filled with brilliant podcasting minds, and the ability to schedule as many one-on-one quick fix calls as you like at no extra charge. Join worry-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/akron

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Akron police and EMS were dispatched to the scene at about 11:15 p.m. Tuesday. They found the victim, an employee at the store, with an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at 11:38 p.m.

The shooting occurred after a man approached the drive-thru window on foot seeking to buy black and mild cigars, Akron police Capt. Michael Miller said.

He handed the clerk some cash that was in poor condition, possibly with soil or blood, Miller said. A dispute quickly broke out over the condition of the money. The suspect then pulled out a long-barreled rifle. That's when the clerk returned the cigar to the suspect and asked him to leave with it.

Before fleeing on foot, the suspect fired at least two shots through the window at the group of employees inside the drive-thru, striking the 21-year-old at least once. Shattered glass may have injured others standing nearby, Miller said.

See the Akron Shootings app to see other murders in our city

https://www.mapcustomizer.com/map/Akron-Killings

The National Park Service plans to close a large section of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail to visitors.

A 1.5-mile section of the popular trail just north of the Station Road Bridge Trailhead in Brecksville will close on weekdays beginning Dec. 18 through May 3.

Park officials say the closure is needed while crews continue to work on stabilizing the river bank inside of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

The trail will be open to visitors on weekends.

This is part of a two-phase project with work shifting to south of Station Road at a later date.

The construction is part of a $14 million effort to stabilize the trail and tracks for the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad along the Cuyahoga River.

Businesses in the area affected by the road closure are open & still accessible, including the Peanut Shoppe of Akron (Hours until Dec. 24th: Monday - Friday 10 am - 5 pm, Saturday 10 am - 4 pm, & Sunday 1 pm - 4 pm.), ChillandIndulge (see the 2nd picture for some of their holiday offerings), Crave, Unknwn, and others.

Don't forget: The Peanut Shoppe has seasonal round tins & boxes for gift-giving, & will also take your order by phone & ship it to anywhere in the U.S. of A. 330-376-7020)

Okay, now the road closure information

The affected area is S. Main St., between Church St. and University Ave.

WHEN:

This stretch of road will be closed on Monday, December 11 through Friday, December 22

WHY:

The closure is for Emergency Sewer Repair.

On Monday, December 11, Kenmore Construction Co. and the City of Akron plan to close S. Main St. to all traffic between Church St. and University Avenue as they begin emergency sewer repair work.

STILL OPEN:

Businesses in the road closure area will still be open and accessible. Park on Church St., University, or in the Summit County or State St. parking decks.

DETOURS:

Southbound traffic will be detoured using E. Bowery St., S. High St., and University Ave.

Northbound traffic will be detoured using University Ave., S. Broadway, and E. Bowery St.

This work is expected to be completed by Friday, December 22.

See the attached image for a map of the detours. For all downtown traffic advisories, visit https://bit.ly/TrafficAdvisoriesDowntownAkron

Christmas chimes won’t be playing at...