In this episode, I get you ready for the Fourth of July with a rundown of where you can catch fireworks all around the Akron area. As America celebrates its 250th birthday, there are plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy the holiday. If you're staying in Akron, Lock 3's fireworks begin at 9:45 p.m., but I'll also share plenty of other options if you're looking for something closer to home.

I also talk about some of the fun happening around town, including the All-American Burger & Barbecue Festival. If you leave hungry, that's on you. There will be plenty of burgers, barbecue, and just about every excuse you need to loosen your belt a notch. Since the weather is expected to be hot, I also cover where you can cool off at local pools and splash pads. And if your holiday plans include a few adult beverages, I'll tell you how to score a discounted Lyft ride, because getting home safely beats getting a DUI every single time.

Kroger bought Giant Eagle for 1.65 Billion

On the news side, I discuss the possibility of an Akron Metro bus strike. Bus operators say they haven't received a raise in more than three years, and if a strike happens, it could have a major impact on people who rely on public transportation every day.

I also cover a heartbreaking story involving teenagers and gun violence. It's one of those stories that's difficult to talk about because it raises serious questions about how young people are getting access to firearms and the devastating consequences that follow. Sometimes sarcasm just isn't enough to cover stories like this, but it's a conversation our community needs to have.

To end on a lighter note, I highlight some great entertainment coming to the area, including concerts at the Goodyear Theater and Blossom Music Center. Summer is one of the best times to get out and enjoy everything Akron has to offer, and I'll help you find something worth putting on your calendar.

Whether you're looking for fireworks, local news, concerts, community events, or just want to know what's happening around town, I've got you covered. It's another week of Akron news, a little humor, a little sarcasm, and hopefully a few reasons to appreciate the community we call home.

• I share a complete Fourth of July fireworks schedule so you can plan where to celebrate.
• I cover changes in local radio and what they might mean for the future of traditional broadcasting.
• I discuss a tragic shooting involving teenagers and why youth access to firearms remains a serious community concern.
• I look at Akron's Street Team violence prevention program and whether expanding it will make a meaningful difference.
• Kroger is returning to the area through its purchase of Giant Eagle, bringing another twist to the local grocery landscape.
• With summer temperatures climbing, I let you know where you can cool off at Akron's public pools and splash pads.

Mentioned in this episode:

Tell a Friend and Support the Show

Do you know someone who would enjoy the show? Tell them to go to Akron Podcast and Follow the show. You can also say "thanks" by visiting the link below to help keep the lights on.

Support the Show

Plan, Track, and Save Your Money

Monarch simplifies finances by bringing all your accounts together into one clear view. Always know where your money is and where it's going, achieve your goals quicker, and collaborate with your partner or professional at no extra cost.

Monarch Money

Get Involved With the Show?

This show is by you for you! Got feedback? I want to hear it? Got insights? I want to hear it! Be a part of the show and help us make our city (and this podcast) better.

Get Involved With the Show

So today I will share my experience going downtown to check out Devo at the Civic. I also talk about Blimp Day, Zoo News, APS Terminations, Pro Golf in Akron, Zoo News, Veterans getting help, Camp Creative along with Connect at the Rec, Grocery stores, and a whole lot more

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.

Mentioned in this episode:

Plan, Track, and Save Your Money

Monarch simplifies finances by bringing all your accounts together into one clear view. Always know where your money is and where it's going, achieve your goals quicker, and collaborate with your partner or professional at no extra cost.

Monarch Money

Start Your Podcast Today

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

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

Tell a Friend and Support the Show

Do you know someone who would enjoy the show? Tell them to go to Akron Podcast and Follow the show. You can also say "thanks" by visiting the link below to help keep the lights on.

Support 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 fun. Any amount of support is DEEPLY appreciated.

The episode explores the local Akron scene, beginning with a nostalgic look back at the Chippewa Lake Amusement Park, now being reborn as a nature preserve. The Tumble Bug Trailhead is just one of the many initiatives aimed at preserving the park's rich history while encouraging outdoor activities. It’s a quaint reminder of the past, filled with tales of glory days gone by.

The episode takes us to the Akron Zoo's new Primate Passage exhibit, which promises to be a hit with families. With playful monkeys and immersive environments, it's not just an exhibit; it's an invitation to escape reality for a moment. And just when you think we’re done with the fun, the return of Dinotrek brings life-sized dinosaurs back to the zoo, proving that Akron knows how to entertain.

But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows; we also tackle serious topics like the city’s initiative to provide free meals for kids during the summer, a response to food insecurity that’s both necessary and commendable.

Two neighborhoods are slotted for help, and look below for a link to the shedule

Takeaways:

• In Akron, new developments at the Chippewa Lake site aim to blend history with nature, making it a serene destination.
• The Akron Zoo is introducing exciting new exhibits, including the Primate Passage and unique axolotls, just in time for summer fun.
• Free meal programs for local youth will be available again this summer to combat food insecurity in Akron.
• Akron's city officials are launching a significant road resurfacing project, addressing pothole concerns for residents effectively.
• Controversy surrounds Akron Public Schools as district spokesperson faces scrutiny, adding drama to an already tumultuous leadership situation.
• Despite Huntsman Corporation scaling back operations, they assure the community that they are committed to Akron's future.

Mentioned in this episode:

Give Back to the Akron Podcast

If you are finding value in this show, please consider giving back by going to www.akronpodcast.com/value

Value For Value

Tell a Friend and Support the Show

Do you know someone who would enjoy the show? Tell them to go to Akron Podcast and Follow the show. You can also say "thanks" by visiting the link below to help keep the lights on.

Support the Show

Plan, Track, and Save Your Money

Monarch simplifies finances by bringing all your accounts together into one clear view. Always know where your money is and where it's going, achieve your goals quicker, and collaborate with your partner or professional at no extra cost.

Monarch Money

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.

• In Akron, the police department has faced scrutiny over use of force incidents and accountability issues.
• Recent independent reviews revealed a staggering disconnect between public perception and actual police violence statistics.
• The ongoing investigation of illegal gambling operations in Akron highlights community concerns about local crime.
• The Rock Hall expansion aims to enhance community engagement and drive tourism for Northeast Ohio.
• Akron Honey's withdrawal from the Northside Marketplace shows significant vendor concerns about payment delays and transparency.
• A recent shooting incident in Akron has raised alarms about community safety and the need for better conflict resolution.

Links referenced in this episode:

• akronpodcast.com
• akronpodcast.com/events

Mentioned in this episode:

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

Plan, Track, and Save Your Money

Monarch simplifies finances by bringing all your accounts together into one clear view. Always know where your money is and where it's going, achieve your goals quicker, and collaborate with your partner or professional at no extra cost.

Monarch Money

Start Your Podcast Today

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

Tell a Friend and Support the Show

Do you know someone who would enjoy the show? Tell them to go to Akron Podcast and Follow the show. You can also say "thanks" by visiting the link below to help keep the lights on.

Support the Show

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 schools actually get the funding they need.

Then there’s the situation at the Akron Zoo—which, for a moment, got pretty intense. A bomb threat forced an evacuation, but thankfully it turned out to be a false alarm. The zoo reopened the next day, no injuries, no harm to the animals. Still, it’s one of those moments that reminds me how unpredictable things can get around here.

From there, I can’t help but think about the back-to-school sales tax holiday. It’s back—but it’s definitely not what it used to be. It’s shorter, more restrictive, and honestly, it feels like parents are being asked to do more with less. Trying to save money on school supplies shouldn’t feel this complicated.

On a lighter note, I love seeing local businesses hit milestones. El Patron is celebrating five years, and they’re throwing a Latin night to mark the occasion—which sounds like a good time, depending on how you feel about the drink prices.

And of course, I can’t ignore the ongoing conversation about tribute bands around here. It makes me laugh a little—would I rather go out and see a cover band, or just stay home and stream the original? That’s a real debate.

Let me know your thoughts!

Takeaways:

• I’m keeping an eye on the Summit County elections—low turnout, but high stakes.
• A former fair board member stole over $24,000 from youth programs, which is just frustrating all around.
• The Akron Zoo scare turned out to be a false alarm—thankfully everyone is safe.
• El Patron is celebrating five years with a Latin-themed event.
• Ohio’s sales tax holiday is shorter this year, so planning ahead matters more.
• There’s a community meeting coming up to talk about neighborhood blight—and honestly, that’s a conversation worth having.
• If you want, I can tighten this further into a 60–90 second audio script with pacing beats.

Mentioned in this episode:

Plan, Track, and Save Your Money

Monarch simplifies finances by bringing all your accounts together into one clear view. Always know where your money is and where it's going, achieve your goals quicker, and collaborate with your partner or professional at no extra cost.

Monarch Money

Start Your Podcast Today

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

Tell a Friend and Support the Show

Do you know someone who would enjoy the show? Tell them to go to Akron Podcast and Follow the show. You can also say "thanks" by visiting the link below to help keep the lights on.

Support the Show

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

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 protect the Cuyahoga River and keep local businesses afloat.

Meanwhile, health care and affordable housing are also getting some love. Planned Parenthood is set for $1.85 million to enhance family planning services, and East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation is receiving $254,000 for affordable housing efforts.

How generous! It seems like our representatives are finally paying attention, and while the political colors might not matter much, the money sure does. Let’s just hope they don’t forget about us when the next funding round comes around.

Takeaways:

• Gas prices in Summit County have risen dramatically, hitting an average of $4.24 per gallon.
• Federal funding is being allocated to improve Akron Fulton International Airport for winter safety operations.
• The recent federal funding will also enhance infrastructure and public safety in Summit County.
• A 14-year-old was arrested after a shooting incident involving two other teenagers in Akron.
• A significant federal investment aims to improve the safety of East Copley Road due to high crash risks.
• It's ironic how multi-million dollar sports teams can sidestep laws that affect regular folks.
• Leo Kotke cancels again - we wish him well.

Get Involved With the Show

Value For Value

Support Akron Podcast

Links Mentioned

Mentioned in this episode:

Tell a Friend and Support the Show

Do you know someone who would enjoy the show? Tell them to go to Akron Podcast and Follow the show. You can also say "thanks" by visiting the link below to help keep the lights on.

Support the Show

Start Your Podcast Today

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

Please Support This Show

If you get any value from the show please consider giving some of that value back and help us keep the lights on by going to www.akronpodcast.com/value any size donation is appreciated.

Value For Value

Plan, Track, and Save Your Money

Monarch simplifies finances by bringing all your accounts together into one clear view. Always know where your money is and where it's going, achieve your goals quicker, and collaborate with your partner or professional at no extra cost.

Monarch Money