Hope your week is off to a strong start. Here’s what’s happening around Akron-Canton this week, from local stories worth knowing to a few events and outings to keep on your radar.
-Housing Work in Akron
-Free Meals
-Top Ranked Housing Markets
-Wine Certification
-Events and More!!
-JJ
Akron Civic Assembly members say housing work is building something bigger
Akron’s Civic Assembly was created to help tackle the city’s housing challenges, but participants say the 10-week process is also creating something less expected: stronger connections between residents. The 65-member group, which was selected to reflect a broad cross section of the city, has been meeting regularly to review possible housing solutions, and organizers say the longer format is giving people time to actually listen, collaborate, and build trust across different backgrounds and viewpoints.
At the center of the latest discussion was how Akron should raise more dedicated money for housing. Assembly members reviewed a proposal that includes three possible funding tools: housing bonds, a city income tax, and developer fees. Some delegates said the most promising path may be a mix of all three rather than relying on a single solution. The assembly’s final vote is set for May 14, with recommendations expected to be presented to Mayor Shammas Malik, City Council, and the public at a closing ceremony on May 21.
Akron to offer free summer meals for kids again this year
Akron Public Schools is once again teaming up with the City of Akron to provide free breakfasts and lunches for children during summer break, helping fill the gap when school meals are no longer available. City Council recently approved a $300,000 contract to support meal preparation and delivery for the Summer Food Service Program, which will run from June 8 through July 31.
The program will operate at 15 sites across Akron’s community centers, plus Lane Field Park and 25 to 30 school locations throughout the APS district. Last summer, the city served about 46,000 meals, and officials say demand could be even higher this year as more families feel the strain of rising costs.
Canton-Massillon and Akron land near top of national housing ranking
The Canton-Massillon housing market was ranked the third best in the country in the latest Wall Street Journal/Realtor.com Housing Market Ranking, while Akron came in at No. 6. That made them the only two Ohio metros in the Top 20, continuing a strong run for both local markets after Canton-Massillon ranked No. 1 in the winter report.
The report points to a mix of affordability, steady buyer demand, and relatively stable local economies as key reasons both markets continue to stand out nationally. In March, Canton-Massillon had a median home listing price of $239,900, while Akron came in at $229,500. For Stark and Summit County readers, it is another sign that the region is increasingly being viewed as one of the most competitive and attractive housing markets in the country.
Gervasi launches advanced wine camp with certification option
Gervasi Vineyard is expanding its wine education lineup with a new Level 2 Wine Camp scheduled for Oct. 23–25, created in partnership with the American Wine School. The program builds on Gervasi’s beginner-level camps and is designed for both serious wine enthusiasts and people looking to grow their knowledge professionally, ending with the chance to earn a WSET Level 2 certification.
The weekend will include guided tastings, wine theory, food pairing instruction, and a deeper look at major grape varieties, wine regions, and winemaking styles. For Gervasi, it is another example of the property continuing to lean into experience-based offerings beyond just dining and stays , this time aimed at guests who want something more immersive and educational.
1. Fiddler on the Roof Akron Civic Theatre’s Knight Stage
Runs May 15 and 16 at 7 p.m. and May 17 at 2 p.m. It is probably the strongest all-around theater pick of the week because it gives readers multiple chances to go and it is a recognizable title.2. Akron RubberDucks home game First Responders Appreciation Night
The RubberDucks are home on Thursday, May 14 at 6:35 p.m. against Chesapeake, and the promotion tied to that game is First Responders Appreciation Night. That is an easy, broad-interest local event.3. Summit Artspace Spring Exhibitions opening reception
This happens May 14 from 5 to 8:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Good arts/community pick and easy newsletter material.4. Matilda the Musical , Players Guild Theatre, North Canton
Runs May 15 at 7:30 p.m., May 16 at 7:30 p.m., and May 17 at 2 p.m. Strong family-friendly and theater-friendly option on the Canton side.5. Sampler Day at The Wilderness Center
Set for May 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Wilmot. It stands out because it is free, outdoorsy, and a little different from the usual concert/play list.6. Mayor Malik’s State of the City Address , Akron Civic Theatre
Scheduled for May 19 at 5 p.m. Not really an entertainment event, but definitely one of the more important civic happenings in Akron that week.7. Sunday Jazz Brunch at The Bistro , Gervasi
Happening May 17 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is one of the better lifestyle/weekend outing picks in Stark County.8. Live Music: Matilda Pablo , The Still House at Gervasi
Scheduled for May 15 from 8 to 11 p.m. Good Friday-night option, especially for readers looking for something lower-key but still polished.9. Free Graphic Novel Book Club: Holy Lacrimony , Akron Art Museum
Set for May 14 from 7 to 8 p.m. It is more niche, but it adds some variety and gives you at least one museum/literary event in the mix.10. Lunch and Learn: “Kent Monkman: History is Painted by the Victors” , Akron Art Museum
Happening May 19 from noon to 1 p.m. Another nice culture pick that helps round out the list beyond just theater and sports.
Hope everyone has an amazing week!