Akron Podcast cover art

Akron Podcast

Akron Podcast

By: Dave Jackson
Listen for free

Do you live in Akron, Ohio? Want to keep up with what is going on in your city? This podcast is for you. We will cover local news (the good and the bad), Entertainment schedules, Updates on what your local representatives are up to (in a "just the facts / Non-biased fashion), and whatever else you'd like to hear.Copyright 2026 Dave Jackson Politics & Government Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • Devo Day? Would You Vote For This?

    Devo Day? Would You Vote For This?
    May 18 2026
    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.Got Feedback?Leave a message for the show and we'll play it in the show.Introduction and OverviewBrief summary of episode topics: Spaghetti Warehouse news, Cedar Point updates, shootings, Devo Day, Akron Public Schools newsMention of episode date and podcast website2. Devo Day LegislationOhio lawmakers considering House Bill 866 to designate April 18 as Devo DayIntroduced by Veronica Sims (Akron) and Michelle Grimm (Toledo)Chosen for Devo's first performance date at Kent State in 1973Devo's contribution to music and Ohio cultureHonors Devo's influence and philosophy of de-evolutionKey band members mentioned: Gerald Casale and Mark MothersbaughNotable songs cited: "Whip It," "The Girl You Want," "Freedom of Choice," "Beautiful World," and "Mongoloid"Devo's local tiesFormed in Kent, developed in AkronBill must pass several legislative steps to become officialUpcoming Devo concert at Akron Civic Theater3. Akron Area Road Closures and ConstructionCentral Interchange overnight closures (May 17–22)Purpose: Bridge painting by ODOTSpecific detour routes providedGent Road ramp closure (starting May 18)Ramp to I-77 North closed for pavement reconstructionAll American Bridge repair and related street closures (from May 26)Charles Street under State Route 261 closed through June 64. Cedar Point Millennium Force Ride IssueSeat belt issue leading to guests being unable to rideSeat belts shorter than intended spec, causing problems for ridersLonger load times and some guests turned awayConfirmation of replacement seatbelts coming5. Spaghetti Warehouse Akron ClosureOfficial closing statement and last day (May 17)Reflection on the restaurant’s significance to the communityHistorical backgroundOpened in 1992 in the B.F. Goodrich warehouse buildingProximity to local landmarksCompany history and other locations6. New Downtown Akron Restaurant – Crafty SteerDescription of Crafty Steer as a multi-use destinationRestaurant, bar, games, market, event spaceRevitalization of previously vacant Ohio Brewing Company spaceImportance to downtown Akron’s urban developmentEffort to increase density and foot trafficUse of West Point Market recipesOwner's goals and connection to existing marketsTiming of opening and ongoing downtown revitalization efforts7. Akron Public Schools Staffing Cuts DebateTemporary postponement of planned staffing reductionsBoard voted 5–2 against current reduction proposalDiscussion around necessity and presentation of cutsSpecific positions proposed for reduction:Assistant principal (dean) rolesParaprofessional positionsLibrary technician jobsArt therapistIssues raised by board members about approach and processOther cost-saving measures being consideredStatement from district leaders on funding challenges8. Cleveland Orchestra Event at Blossom Music CenterAnnouncement of Itzhak Perlman performing July 9, 2026Details of the all-Beethoven programSignificance of Perlman’s appearance9. Recent Shootings and Crime Updates in AkronShooting near Marcy Street and Cole AvenueDetails of the incident, victim identity, current investigationContact information for providing tipsBar owner shooting at North Hill Game Day GrillCircumstances and status of the victimRepeated encouragement to provide information10. Bath Township Airbnb Shooting LawsuitLawsuit filed by Brooklyn Diner against Airbnb, homeowner, and party organizersAlleged zoning violations and foreseeability of violenceDetails of the incident and legal argumentsStatus of related criminal casesStatus of the property where the incident occurred11. Akron Civic Theater Free ToursMonthly free tours of the Civic TheaterHow to sign up, age restrictions, and format of the tours12. Proposed WM Trash Transfer Station AgreementOverview of agreement between Akron and WM (Waste Management)Closure of Fountain Street facility after new Archwood Ave. site opensDeed restrictions, community improvement fund, Joy Park supportTruck routing changes and public accountability measuresCommunity benefits: youth programs, cleanupsDebate over adequacy of financial compensationTimeline for construction and potential delays13. Closing AnnouncementsCall for resident voicemails about living near the Fountain Street facilityNotice of upcoming events: State of the City, River Butcher comedy show, Steve Earle concertReminder to check akronpodcast.com for more eventsMentioned in this episode:Start Your Podcast TodayJoin 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 ...
    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
  • Free Meals for Kids: A Summer Lifeline in Akron

    Free Meals for Kids: A Summer Lifeline in Akron
    May 15 2026
    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 fun. Any amount of support is DEEPLY appreciated.

    Chippewa Lake News

    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.

    Akron Zoo New Animals

    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.

    Free Food For Youth

    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.

    Akron Potholes - When Will They Be Fixed?

    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
    Show More Show Less
    18 mins
  • Shooting Scares and Mayor's Reports: Just Another Day in Akron

    Shooting Scares and Mayor's Reports: Just Another Day in Akron
    May 9 2026

    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:
    • 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
    Show More Show Less
    36 mins
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_c
No reviews yet