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Akron Children's Pediatric Residency Program Overview Video

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Akron Children's Pediatric Residency Program Overview Video

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Akron Children’s Pediatric Residency Program

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About Akron Children’s | Akron Children’s Hospital

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Akron Children’s Hospital is ranked among the best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. And to ensure families have convenient access to our pediatric care, we have 2 hospitals in northeast Ohio and 50 urgent, primary and specialty care locations. We also partner with other health syste…

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Akron Children's Pediatric Residency Tour Video

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Akron Children's Pediatric Residency Tour Video

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Pediatric Residency Tour - Akron Children's

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The upper portion of Brandywine Falls.
© Steve Paddon

Parking at Brandywine Falls
This 60-foot waterfall is accessed via a partially accessible boardwalk. Avoid this area during peak time as it is our most popular location and parking near the falls is limited.

The Brandywine Falls parking area serves both the Summit Metroparks Bike and Hike Trail and Brandywine Falls, making it a very busy location. If accessing the Bike and Hike Trail, please consider parking at another trailhead. More information about the trail can be found on the Summit Metro Parks website.

During nice weather and throughout the summer, the parking lot is generally full between 10 am and 4 pm.

Do not park on the roadway. Vehicles have been damaged, ticketed, and/or towed.*

Arriving early or later in the day may improve the likelihood of getting a parking space.

Do not park outside of designated parking spaces. There is no overflow parking for Brandywine Falls.

Consider hiking to Brandywine Falls from Boston Mill Visitor Center . Maps and information are provided at the visitor center. The roundtrip hike is approximately 5 miles.*

Visiting

Brandywine Falls is open daily from dawn to dusk. The boardwalk may be closed during icy conditions. Brandywine Falls is located at 8176 Brandywine Road in Sagamore Hills Township.

Hiking the Trail

The 1.5-mile Brandywine Gorge Loop lets you explore beyond the waterfall. It starts near the bed & breakfast and follows the edge of the gorge, eventually taking you down to creek level. The trail is worth revisiting in the spring to view vernal pools that temporarily fill with water, attracting breeding salamanders. Along the way, there are also views of the creek and the layers of rock it has exposed.

Seasonal Changes

Brandywine Falls is a place to return to time and time again - to enjoy seasonal changes like fall colors and spring vernal pools. It is also a place to watch the moods of the waterfall. With less water, the bridal-veil pattern becomes more pronounced. In winter, ice becomes the attraction. Runoff from upstream paved surfaces has increased water flow compared to historic water volumes. This is especially true immediately after storms and water can be seen in high volumes as it rushes over the falls.

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Brandywine Falls - Cuyahoga Valley National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

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This 60-foot waterfall is accessed via a partially accessible boardwalk. Avoid this area during peak time as it is our most popular location and parking near the falls is limited. The Brandywine Falls parking area serves both the Summit Metroparks Bike and Hike Trail and Brandywine Falls, making it a very busy location.

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Visit Amish Country | Holmes County, Ohio

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"I love the back roads, the simple slow down way of life, all the great restaurants, gift stores and the little, off the main roads, places of business, as well as the bigger hardware stores. So much to see and enjoy in the Ohio Amish Country. "

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Visit Amish Country - Holmes County, Ohio

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Discover Amish Country near Millersburg, Ohio. Experience Amish Country Ohio tourism, vacations in heart of Holmes County. Relax. Unwind. Recharge.

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The site requires JavaScript to be enabled! The browser you're using doesn't support JavaScript, or has JavaScript turned off.
Try again with a browser that has JavaScript turned on. Learn More

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Our pediatric residency program stresses the role of the pediatrician as a lifelong learner and educator of patients, families and other healthcare providers, as well as an advocate for issues affecting infants, children and teens. By giving you ample opportunities to gain first-hand experience, we focus on the development of your medical knowledge, clinical skills, professionalism, and interpersonal and communication skills.

We also provide you with community-based, continuity clinic experiences so you can learn what it's really like to practice general pediatrics in urban, suburban and rural communities. This includes working with an immigrant population and children in foster care.

You will also be exposed to a variety of pediatric subspecialties and we encourage you to pursue research projects with subspecialists in your area of interest.

Our program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, and affiliated with Northeast Ohio Medical University in Rootstown, Ohio.

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Pediatric Residency Program: Akron Children's

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We provide our pediatric residents with a diverse, collaborative, scholarly atmosphere that values work-life balance.

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Pediatric Residency Salary & Benefits | Akron Children’s

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Learn more about Akron Children’s pediatric residency salary, benefits, educational and moving stipends to help future pediatric providers take their next steps.

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Celebrating the Future of Pediatric Care: Akron Children's Honors its 2025 Graduating Residents

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Celebrating the Future of Pediatric Care: Akron Children's Honors its 2025 Graduating Residents

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Kathy Johnson - Senior Corporate Communications Specialist

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Celebrating the future of pediatric care: Akron Children’s honors its 2025 graduating residents : Inside Children’s Blog

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Akron Children’s is proud to celebrate the exceptional physicians completing their pediatric residencies this year. Residency is a transformative time –

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Akron Children’s celebrates its graduating residents

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Akron Children’s celebrates its graduating residents

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Akron Children's is thrilled to recognize this year's graduating class of 23 pediatric residents. Residency is a demanding yet rewarding time, and these individuals have dedicated themselves to excellence in pediatric care. As they embark on the next chapter of their careers, we'd like to recognize their achievements and celebrate their bright futures.

We asked a few of them to share their career plans and their favorite parts of residency.
Bonds of Friendship and Support: Jennifer Fritch, MD
As Dr. Fritch approaches the completion of her residency, she is most appreciative of the relationships she has formed with co-residents and mentors while at Akron Children's.

"The unwavering support and encouragement of my peers gave me the confidence to excel both personally and professionally," she said.

Specifically, Dr. Fritch expressed her gratitude to her continuity clinic preceptor, Dr. Jessica Cerrezuela Steiner.

Because of the time she spent under the mentorship of "Dr. Jess," Dr. Fritch said she has developed a strong skill set, learned how to function productively in a busy clinic, and can comfortably communicate with patients and their families.

As Dr. Fritch prepares to return to her hometown of Washington, PA, as a general pediatrician, she is eager to share her love of pediatrics with her future patients.

"I will be rounding at the hospital where I was born and where I met my husband volunteering in high school," she said. Fritch. "I feel blessed to have the opportunity to return and serve the community where I was raised."
A Passion for Research and Gastroenterology: Micah Morris, MD
Dr. Micah Morris said the unique opportunity to gain hands-on learning with endoscopy during his residency has helped prepare him for his upcoming fellowship in pediatric gastroenterology at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus.

He acknowledged Dr. Kevin Watson, pediatric gastroenterologist, as a pivotal mentor who guided him in his academic research and fellowship preparation.

"Dr. Watson helped me find venues to present my findings and create my network with other members in the field of gastroenterology," he said. "He has been an example of a mentor I would like to carry forward in my career, providing support and also pushing me outside of my comfort zone to grow."

Dr. Morris said the volume of patients seen is an important factor in developing skills as a clinician, and there was no shortage of clinical experiences within his training.

"The number of rare diagnoses cared for at Akron Children's helped me to broaden my knowledge and prepared me to see patients with complex needs while understanding the challenges in providing care for this population," he said.
Building a Rewarding Career in Outpatient Care: Sarah Holcomb, DO
For Dr. Sarah Holcomb, her co-residents, faculty and her patients have all profoundly impacted her journey.

"I would like to thank pediatrician Dr. Jennifer Dwyer, who was my RECs preceptor for my three years of residency," she said. "She was instrumental in my education, my desire to pursue outpatient pediatrics, and in helping me feel more comfortable with the transition from resident to attending physician."

Akron Children's not only provided a strong educational foundation but also fostered a supportive network Dr. Holcomb can rely on as she embarks on her new role as a general outpatient pediatrician at Akron Children's Pediatrics North Canton.

"Many of the providers I have worked with throughout my residency have told me that their doors are always open if I run into any questions, which is very reassuring as I start out on this new journey," she said.
Fellowship Bound: Kayla Schlosser, DO
When Dr. Kayla Schlosser thinks about her residency, she knows her robust training at Akron Children's will be invaluable to the patient care, management, coordination and problem-solving skills that will be necessary in the next step in her career as a neonatology fellow at UH Rainbow Babies and Children's in Cleveland.

'I'm especially grateful to the hospitalist group, particularly Dr. Nimisha Jain, who significantly shaped my clinical skills," said Dr. Schlosser. "Additionally, the neonatology groups at Akron Children's and St. Elizabeth's provided invaluable support and mentorship, particularly Dr. Julia Schaffer, Dr. Laura Jackson, Dr. Douglas Potoka, Dr. Jennifer Grow, Dr. Melissa Andrianov and Dr. Kelly Roush.

"I've been exposed to three different NICU settings at Akron Children's, which has been beneficial to my long-term career aspirations," she added.

Some of her favorite memories include social events with her co-residents allowing her to create meaningful off-the-job friendships.

"I have made lifelong friendships through residency and am so grateful for the relationships that Akron Children's fostered," she said.
The Pursuit of Excellence in Cardiology: Jaron Maggard, DO
Akron Children's Heart Center, with its exceptional faculty and exposure to complex cases, has prepared Dr. Jaron Maggard for his cardiology fellowship at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital at the University of Texas at Houston.

Although research is a large part of the path toward becoming a physician, Dr. Maggard never found it exciting until he began working with cardiologist Dr. John Clark.

"Working with Dr. Clark on projects related to the emerging field of cardioneuroablation was the first time I've truly felt excited about the field of research," he said. "I can now say I hope to incorporate it into my practice in the future.

"Medicine can be a hard path, especially when managing some of the sickest patients and most worried parents, but Dr. Clark's ability to bring a smile to both his patients and co-workers is a unique aspect of his approach to medicine," he added "Just like Dr. Clark, I hope to be able to say I have 'the best job in the world.'"

Congratulations to our graduating residents! We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and excited to witness the positive impact they will continue to make on the lives of children.

Below is a complete list of this year's graduating class:

Class of 2024 Pediatric Residency Graduates

Kathryn Abele, DO

General Pediatrician, Cleveland Clinic

Ashley Burke, DO

Boston Children's Health Physicians- Orangetown Pediatrics

Paige Daily, MD

Pediatric Chief Resident, Akron Children's

Mackenzie Dreher, DO

PICU Fellowship, Children's Mercy Hospital

Jennifer Fritch, MD

General Pediatrician, Washington Pediatrics, Washington, PA

Sarah Holcomb, DO

General Pediatrician, Akron Children's Pediatrics North Canton

Alexas Ophaug, DO

General Pediatrics/Urgent Care in Raleigh North Carolina

Avi Rascoe, DO

Pediatric Chief Resident, Akron Children's

Julia Russell, DO

Pediatric Chief Resident, Akron Children's

Ahana Walia, MD

Pediatric Infectious Diseases

Mount Sinai Kravis Children's Hospital

New York, NY

Melissa Walker, MD

Pediatric Hospital Medicine Fellowship, Akron Children's

2024 Pediatric Residency Chief Residents

Learn more about Akron Children's pediatric residency program.

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Akron Children's celebrates its graduating residents : Inside Children's Blog

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Akron Children's is thrilled to recognize this year's graduating class of 23 pediatric residents. Residency is a demanding yet rewarding time, and these

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Akron Children's Fellowship programs are structured to provide excellent clinical and scholarly training in a friendly and supportive environment. Our trainees graduate as expertly trained clinicians who provide superior clinical care, are content experts in their respective fields and are seasoned educators of future clinicians. In addition to busy clinical services which expose Fellows to the breadth of their subspecialties, the Rebecca D. Considine Research Institute at Akron Children's provides Fellows with the scholarly training and experience necessary to further their academic pursuits.

To learn more about Akron, area activities and more, click here.

For more information, Contact:

Tasha Capozzi, BS, CCRC
Fellowship Coordinator
Akron Children's
One Perkins Square
Akron, OH 44308
330-543-4266
tcapozzi@akronchildrens.org

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Akron Children's Fellowship Programs | Akron Children's

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Akron Children's Fellowship programs are structured to provide excellent clinical and scholarly training in a friendly and supportive environment. Our trainees graduate as expertly trained clinicians who provide superior clinical care, are content experts in their respective fields and are seasoned educators of future clinicians.

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Sep 4, 2025

Patricia Raimer, MD, Director, Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine at Akron Children's, discusses the meticulous planning that went into moving patients to the newly-opened Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and Heart Unit at the hospital's Akron campus. Originally aired on http://www.fox8.com on September 3, 2025. To learn more about our PICU services, visit https://www.akronchildrens.org/picu.

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Akron Children's moves patients into new PICU and heart unit

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While we are ranked among the best children's hospitals in the country, it's our compassionate approach to treatment that makes us truly exceptional. Through a combination of revolutionary treatments and extraordinary patient experiences, our care does more than heal.

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Akron Children’s ranks amongst the best children’s hospitals in US News & World Report

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Akron Children’s ranks amongst the best children’s hospitals in US News & World Report

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Akron Children’s ranks amongst the best children’s hospitals in US News & World Report | Akron Children’s

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Akron Children’s ranks amongst the best children’s hospitals in US News & World Report - News from Akron Children’s

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Newsweek names Akron Children’s a top pediatric hospital  

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Newsweek names Akron Children’s a top pediatric hospital  

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America's Best Children's Hospitals 2024

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Newsweek and the global market research and consumer data firm Statista are proud to announce our ranking of America's Best Children's Hospitals 2024. Our list names the leading hospitals for pediatric care in the United States.

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Wellness Resources Residents, Fellows and Medical Staff

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Wellness Resources Residents, Fellows and Medical Staff

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Staff support for mental health and well-being

At Akron Children’s, we offer a number of resources to support the mental health and well-being of our medical providers. This includes:

Critical incident stress management

Our critical incident stress management team offers several services in the aftermath of an overwhelming event, such as the death of a patient or a significant traumatic event involving children.

Help is available 24/7 by pager at 330-914-1038.

Schwartz Center Rounds

These sessions provide a forum for our clinical staff to explore the emotional and psychosocial dimensions of care. Staff members present on a variety of topics focused on supporting caregivers and strengthening the relationships between patients and their care providers.

Chaplaincy services

Along with providing spiritual care to patients and their families, our chaplain is also available to support the spiritual needs of our staff.

A chaplain can be reached at any time by calling the operator who will page the chaplain on call. During regular office hours, Monday-Friday, you may call 330-543-8254 for non-urgent requests.

Employee Assistance Program

Akron Children’s has partnered with the Carebridge Corporation to provide counseling services for personal and family issues, such as marital and relationship issues, alcohol and drug abuse, stress management, family/parenting problems, depression or anxiety, or grief and loss. These confidential services are available to employees and eligible dependents cost-free.

Call 800-437-0911 or e-mail clientservice@carebridge.com.

Akron Physician Wellness Initiative

Akron Physician Wellness Initiative (APWI) is a new private entity offering FREE and confidential wellness support services for Akron Children’s residents, fellows, physicians and advanced practice providers. You can find them here.

Women Physician Association

Our medical staff female physicians are encouraged to join the Women Physician Association, a group that was formed at Akron Children’s to advocate for the professional development, advancement and well-being of women physicians who are credentialed here.

Find information on myKidsnet or contact Dr. Janice McDaniel at 330-543-8309 or jmcdaniel@akronchildrens.org.

Fitness center memberships

Exercise is a great way to promote both physical and mental well-being. To make it easier for our residents and fellows to participate in regular exercise, we provide free memberships to Cleveland Clinic Akron General Health & Wellness Centers in Bath, Green and Stow.

Fitness center discounts are also available for employed members of our medical staff.

Lactation support
We are committed to supporting our breastfeeding trainees by providing several dedicated lactation rooms and a conveniently-located breast milk storage space in the resident work area. Read more about how we support our GME Trainees.

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Wellness Resources for Medical Staff, Residents and Fellows | Akron Children’s Hospital

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At Akron Children’s, we offer a number of resources to support the mental health and well-being of our medical providers. This includes:

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Pediatric Residency Program featuring 2024-2025 Chief Residents

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Pediatric Residency Program featuring 2024-2025 Chief Residents

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The Pediatric Residency Program at Akron Children's

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Float The River | Cuyahoga River Tubing, Rafting & Kayaking

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Float the River: Experience the thrill of tubing, rafting, and kayaking in Cuyahoga River, OH. Discover scenic beauty and adventure. Book online today!

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The Akron Children's Hospital Culture of Caring

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AKRON, Ohio - Akron Children's Hospital on Wednesday cut the ribbon for its new food pantry for eligible patient families.

Known as the Food Farmacy, the pantry is located on the first floor of the hospital's Considine Professional Building. The food pantry is part of a pilot program that aims to identify patient families who are experiencing food insecurity, particularly among families who have a child experiencing chronic health issues, according to the hospital. The program is funded by an Ohio Department of Medicaid grant to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank.

During her time as a state representative, Rep. Emilia Sykes played a key role in the passage of an amendment to the state's budget in 2020-21 and 2021-22 that funded the pilot program. The $1 million allocated to the program also funded food pantries at Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Summa Health, both of which opened last summer.

"This was and is a very near and dear project to me. It started when I was a member of the Ohio Legislature with an idea to try to bring the concept of food as medicine to our local hospital systems. In working with the Department of Medicaid and my colleagues, working across the aisle to figure out how we can actually fund something like this, we have the Food Farmacy pilot project," Sykes said.

Since the pantry opened three weeks ago, it has served 79 households and 364 people, according to Akron Children's Hospital CEO Christopher Gessner.

"Those of us who have been in healthcare for a long time have seen the importance of food insecurity and addressing food insecurity become more and more prominent and we know in pediatrics, how important the right amount of food and a healthy balanced diet is in keeping children healthy and seeing them grow and develop through their years. And so, it's a real honor for us to partner with so many important people in the community. I really want to thank Emilia for her vision and commitment, because without her energy behind this, we wouldn't have got the initial gift to make this happen," Gessner said.

The pantry offers non-perishable staples such as canned vegetables, rice and peanut butter, along with fresh produce, meat and dairy products. The pantry is also stocked with toilet paper and hygiene products when possible. Product availability will vary depending on food bank supplies, according to pantry coordinator Chanelle Waligura. During summer months, produce from the hospital's wellness garden will also be added.

Food Farmacy eligibility

Initially, pantry visits will be prescribed to families in the hospital's Locust Pediatrics Primary Care and Endocrinology practices who are experiencing food insecurity, which is defined as the lack of regular access to nutritional food, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. The hospital plans to expand the pantry's reach to other subspecialty areas in the future, according to Waligura.

To help identify patient families who can benefit from the food pantry, the hospital's healthcare professionals will ask individuals if they have been worried about their ability to buy food in the past year, or if they ran out of food and didn't have money to buy more. Respondents who answer yes to at least one of those questions can fill out a form to determine if they meet Ohio Department of Job and Family Services income guidelines for federal and state-funded food programs.

Food Farmacy accessibility

The pantry's location on the Akron Children's Hospital campus makes it convenient to pick up staples before or after appointments. The pantry offers reusable tote bags, and also has insulated bags to keep perishable foods cool.

"We want to make sure we are meeting emerging food needs by meeting people where they are - here on campus," said Bernett Williams, the hospital's chief of diversity, equity and inclusion officer and vice president for community initiatives. "We're already seeing value and benefits for families."

The pantry also has an iPad with translation capabilities that can help staff communicate with families who don't speak English or those who speak English as a second language.

Food pantry hours are Mondays-Fridays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hospital is considering adding pantry volunteers and expanding hours, according to Williams.
Want more Akron news? Sign up for cleveland.com's Rubber City Update, an email newsletter delivered at 5:30 a.m. Wednesdays.

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Akron Children's Hospital debuts Food Farmacy for eligible patient families

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AKRON, Ohio - Akron Children's Hospital on Wednesday cut the ribbon for its new food pantry for eligible patient families. Known as the Food Farmacy, the pantry is located on the first floor of the hospital's Considine Professional Building.

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Summit Mall Play Area
Answer Key:

Click to expand

The five differences are:
– Phone color
– Coat pocket
– Stethoscope earpiece color
– Stethoscope bell dot
– Clipboard paper color

Need help finding a doctor, choosing a location or getting a general question about Akron Children's answered? Call us or fill out the form and we'll help in any way we can.

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Akron Children's Hospital Research Institute | Akron Children's Hospital

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The Rebecca D. Considine Research Institute is the catalyst for research and innovation at Akron Children's, northeast Ohio's largest pediatric health care provider.

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Servicios de acceso a idiomas

Servicios de acceso a idiomas se ofrecen las 24 horas del día sin costo alguno para los pacientes y las familias con dominio limitado del Inglés ( LEP ) o que son sordos , con problemas de audición , ciegos o deficientes visuales. Servicios incluyen:

Servicios de interpretación en persona en varios idiomas, entre otros la lengua gestual o de señas.

Servicios de interpretación telefónica y por video en aproximadamente 200 idiomas distintos.

Herramientas de asistencia para la comunicación para sordos, hipoacúsicos, ciegos o personas con incapacidades comunicativas.

Servicios de traducción de documentos.

Por favor pídale más información acerca de como acceder a estos servicios a un miembro del personal. Todos estos servicios están disponibles sin costo alguno para pacientes y familias.

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Translation and Language Access Services

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Servicios de acceso a idiomas se ofrecen las 24 horas del día sin costo alguno para los pacientes y las familias con dominio limitado del Inglés ( LEP ) o que son sordos , con problemas de audición , ciegos o deficientes visuales.

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Does your dog have what it takes to become a Doggie Brigade member?

Handler Requirements:

At least 18 years old

Must commit to 26 hospital visits and 2 hospital-sponsored community events each year

Complete the hospital volunteer process (interview, criminal background check, immunization review, tuberculosis screening, canine behavior evaluation, annual flu shot and training)

Adhere to all requirements and guidelines of the Akron Children's Doggie Brigade program, including regular bathing/grooming of your dog

Have the ability to work in a busy, complex hospital environment, be team-oriented, be familiar with dog body language and able to advocate for their dog's needs

Registered with a hospital-approved therapy dog organization (see therapy dog links for more information)

Therapy Dog Organizations

Dog Applicant Requirements

At least one year of age or older

In good physical health and up to date on required vaccinations

Complete an annual fecal, heartworm and physical veterinary exam

Enjoy and seek out interactions and

interact politely with unfamiliar people

reliably respond to basic cues (sit, down, come, stay, leave it)

be comfortable in new environments

be comfortable around other dogs

Sign Up

If your dog meets the above requirements and you are interested in joining the Doggie Brigade, review the Doggie Brigade Information slides and complete a Doggie Brigade application.

If you have any questions about the program, please contact Volunteer Services at 330-543-8424 or volunteers@akronchildrens.org.

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At least 18 years old Must commit to 26 hospital visits and 2 hospital-sponsored community events each year Complete the hospital volunteer process (interview, criminal background check, immunization review, tuberculosis screening, canine behavior evaluation, annual flu shot and training) Adhere to all requirements and guidelines of the Akron Children's Doggie

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We serve as the liaison between the hospital and local, state and federal government officials as well as community-based organizations. We strive to improve the health status of children and teens in our region through:

Promoting and communicating public health advocacy efforts

Engaging community partners and public officials to develop child health policy

Fostering relationships with governmental organizations and officials

Interacting with local, state and national advocacy organizations

Facilitating tours for public officials and community stakeholder visits to Akron Children's locations

Educating employees and physicians on advocacy with public officials and facilitating interactions

How you can help

One of the most effective ways to help protect the health and safety of children is to advocate on their behalf. The term "legislative advocacy" means supporting laws and policies that will benefit children, and opposing ones that won't. Go to legislative advocacy to learn why it's important to Akron Children's and what you can do to help.

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Government Relations | Akron Children's Hospital

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We serve as the liaison between the hospital and local, state and federal government officials as well as community-based organizations.

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Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors' Bureau

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Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors' Bureau

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City Life. Outdoor Life. Grab Life Right Here!

Hot metropolitan places alongside cool outdoor spaces. You decided which vibe will satisfy - we'd like to think you'll enjoy it all.

SEE WHAT GREATER AKRON HAS TO OFFER

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, please check with each attraction, venue and business for their current hours of operation and event schedules.

What's Happening Around Town

What to do around Akron/Summit County

Akron/Summit County is a place where you can hit the trails and hike through beautiful landscapes, or see it all from the comfort of a train. It’s a place for people who want to enjoy a night at the theatre, or for those jamming along at a live concert. It’s a place where you can sit down to creative international cuisine, or you can indulge on local favorites like jojos and pizza, hamburgers, and more. If you're wondering what to do, Akron/Summit County has your answer!

More to Explore

Here's the place we'll be sharing special programs, partner initiatives and must-have information!

Experience Akron/Summit

Ohio's Only National Park

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park - Ohio's only national park - boasts 33,000 acres of natural treasures and was the 7th most-visited park in the U.S. in 2020. Gaze upon the gorgeous Brandywine Falls, ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad through the heart of the park, and reconnect to nature by enjoying your favorite outdoor activities!

EXPLORE TODAY

Local: 330-374-7560
Toll-free: 800.245.4254

77 E. Mill Street
Akron, Ohio 44308

Follow us

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Quest Digital - A Digital Marketing Company

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Akron/Summit Convention & Visitors Bureau

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With a wonderful array of things to do, places to stay and eat, meeting and convention facilities and countless recreational activities, Akron and Summit County should be your next destination for fun and excitement.

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Living in Akron: How far will my salary go in another city?

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Living in Akron: How far will my salary go in another city?

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To maintain your standard of living in Akron, OH, you'll need a household income of:

The cost of living is 14.00% lower in Akron, OH

The total income needed is $8,598 less than your current household income.

If you would like to know the cost of living in other cities, then please enter a city name.

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Akron, OH Cost Of Living Calculator | Forbes Advisor

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Use the Forbes Advisor cost of living calculator to assess the cost of living in Akron, OH and estimate your housing, transportation, healthcare and other costs.

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We're Your Back Yard

We conserve, sustainably manage and value natural resources for the health and enjoyment of our community, and inspire people to connect with nature through clean and safe parks.

Founded in 1921, Summit Metro Parks is the second oldest park district in Ohio. We manage 15,000 acres throughout 16 parks, three nature centers and more than 150 miles of trails, including 22 miles of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Annual attendance in 2020 was six million visits.

The park district is funded by a Summit County real-estate tax, approved by 73% in April 2020. The annual cost per $100,000 property valuation is $60.54.

More about Summit Metro Parks

Summit Metro Parks 975 Treaty Line Rd.
Akron, OH 44313
330-867-5511

Contact Us Administrative Offices:
330-867-5511
Weekdays, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
© Summit Metro Parks

Stay Informed

Check out our publications!

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Founded in 1921, Summit Metro Parks is the second oldest park district in Ohio and manages 14,100 acres and over 125 miles of trails. Learn more.

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Issuu is a digital publishing platform that makes it simple to publish magazines, catalogs, newspapers, books, and more online. Easily share your publications and get them in front of Issuu’s millions of monthly readers. Title: Akron/Summit Visitors Guide 2023, Author: greatlakespublishing, Length:…

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Celebrating Art & People Open 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, Wednesday, Friday - SundayOpen 11:00 am - 8:00 pm, Thursday RETOLD: AFRICAN AMERICAN ART AND FOLKLORE November 4, 2023 - March 24, 2024 EXPLORE CALENDAR OF EVENTS EXPLORE FOR FAMILIES EXPLORE ART CONNECTS Listen to community voices about artwork on loan from Art Bridges EXPLORE BARBARA STANCZAK: SPIRIT AND MATTER September 16, 2023 - February 4, 2024 EXPLORE LAND JAM June 1, 2023 - May 12, 2024 EXPLORE AMANDA D.

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Lake Erie’s name is derived from “erielhonan,” which is Iroquoian for “long tail.” Aptly named, over 40 km of its sandy shore stretches out as a peninsula into the deepest part of the lake where sweeping sand cliffs dominate, left behind after the ancient glacial retreat. Erie is the most southerly, shallow, and biologically diverse of all of the Great Lakes. Its shallow depth makes it the warmest Great Lake and a favourite destination for summer recreationists and migrating birds. Lake Erie also supports a variety of industries and is home to one of the world’s largest and most valuable freshwater commercial and sport fisheries.

Lake Erie in a nutshell:

The 13th largest lake in the world by surface area

The 2nd smallest of the Great Lakes by surface area

The shallowest Great Lake with an average depth of 19 m (62 ft)

The second-to-last and most southerly Great Lake, with water flowing in from Lake Huron and out to Lake Ontario

Home to approximately 12.4 million people

-jon (Flickr)

Why is Lake Erie so important?

Erie is the most biologically productive and diverse of all the Great Lakes due to its warm shallow waters. Alongside this astounding biodiversity, more than 11 million people get their drinking water from the Lake Erie watershed. Not only that, but most of the water that flows through the lake moves north and empties out through the Niagara River before entering Lake Ontario. This movement provides hydroelectric power to millions of Canadians and Americans via the thundering power of Niagara Falls.

Did You Know?

Approximately 33% of the Great Lakes population (11 million out of 34 million) lives within the Lake Erie watershed!

Precious environment

Since its waters are so shallow, they are highly productive. Lake Erie’s sandy shores are critical stopover grounds for thousands of migratory birds and butterflies each year. These regions offer one-of-a-kind wildlife viewing opportunities: Throughout the year, butterflies, songbirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl flock to the region in a natural spectacle like no other. Lake Erie also supports the highest fish production of all the Great Lakes and is considered to be the Walleye capital for the world.

Along with its productive waters, Erie’s shores also host nutrient-rich soils that grow generous amounts of concord grapes, earning it the nickname “The Lake Erie Concord Grape Belt.” This region supports the largest vine culture in North America, outside of California.

Brand Canada

Did You Know?

Lake Erie has its very own mythical lake monster (named Bessie) that was first sighted in 1793. Unfortunately, it’s likely nothing but a very large Lake Sturgeon.

Regional economy

Among many things, the Lake Erie watershed is farm country. From the supply of freshwater to the soil itself, the Great Lakes create rich agricultural lands. In fact, half of Canada's prime agricultural lands sit on the north shores of Lake Erie and across to Lake Ontario. Most of the region surrounding Lake Erie has been intensely urbanized and turned into agricultural land. Here you will find a wide variety of produce, including fruit, grains, and other crops.

Erie hosts 17 distinct metropolitan areas, each with populations of over 50,000 people. Lake Erie also supports billions of dollars in commercial and recreational fisheries, providing jobs for over 10,000 workers each year. Despite its smaller size, we eat more fish from Lake Erie than all of the other Great Lakes combined!

Image Ontario

Lake Erie geography: What’s here?

Most of the water that flows through Lake Erie exits through the raging Niagara Falls, connecting Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. Erie’s sandy shores touch the Province of Ontario and four U.S. states — New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan. Long Point (in Point Pelee National Park) punctuates Lake Erie’s prolific sand supply as the southernmost point in Canada. There are also extensive marshland habitats that are home to a wide variety of plants and animals.

Lake Erie is dotted with over 26 islands and a resulting 1,400 km of shoreline. Most of the eastern and western shorelines are made of clay and silt deposits, making Erie’s shoreline more likely to erode than the resistant dolomite rock of many other Great Lake shorelines. These shores continue to provide minerals to the surrounding communities, including salt mines and the largest sandstone quarry in the world in Ohio.

Did You Know?

There are rocks within the Lake Erie watershed that date back 400 million years ago, formed from an ancient tropical ocean reef habitat.

Image Ontario

A brief history of Lake Erie

Lake Erie was one of the first Great Lakes to be uncovered by the ancient glacier retreat. Thousands of years ago, there was an ancient river that was gradually deepened by the scraping of an ancient retreating glacier. The shale and limestone rock was eroded to create one long and wide depression. It was uncovered anywhere between 12,000 and 1 million years ago and eventually reached its current shape and size less than 4,000 years ago.

In more recent times, the lake suffers from high amounts of phosphorus and nitrogen due to runoff from the surrounding industries. These increased nutrient levels cause periodic algal blooms, creating dead zones by using up all the oxygen in the water. The blooms even caused a river in Ohio to catch fire in the 1960s! The results from this intense pollution lead to the eventual implementation of the Clean Water Act (passed in 1972) and continued advocacy and restoration work today.

NOAA (Flickr)

Did You Know?

Even though it is the warmest lake during the summer, Lake Erie freezes over during most winters — much more than any other great lake — due to its shallow depth.

Appreciating Lake Erie

With its extensive beaches and tremendous biological diversity, Lake Erie is a wonder to see. A popular spot to visit is Point Pelee National Park — a star-gazing and bird-viewing haven. Spring brings a symphony of songbirds, while fall brings the Monarch Butterflies and impressive, predatory Raptors (a type of predatory bird). Point Pelee is a dark sky reserve, free from artificial light pollution, highlighting skies peppered with millions of stars. Port Stanley is another popular spot. Here you will find a quaint, maritime-like town and sweeping, sandy beaches.

Image Ontario

Protecting Lake Erie

As the shallowest Great Lake, Lake Erie is very susceptible to habitat destruction, pollution, and a changing climate. In past decades, it suffered from pollution from surrounding agricultural and urban settlements. The resulting toxic algae blooms posed risks to our drinking supplies, economy, and quality of life. Thanks to work that has been done to protect and restore the lake, some of Lake Erie’s environmental damage has diminished since the 1970s.

Today, this resilient little lake continues to be a home to valuable habitats supporting thousands of plant and animal species and over 12 million people. Lake Erie provides us with drinking water, recreation, transportation, energy, and food. We must work together to understand and protect this critical ecosystem. The first step is to visit this warm, productive, shallow, diverse, and sandy lake and experience firsthand all that Lake Erie has to offer.

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Lake Erie is the warmest of the Great Lakes and is a prime destination for outdoor activities. Connect with Lake Erie using Great Lakes Guide.

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The Akron Zoo is your zoo for coming nose-to-nose with more than 1,000 animals from around the world.

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Mission Statement

To be a gathering place for children and families, where play inspires exploration, discovery, and problem solving.

Vision Statement

We envision a community shaped by lifelong learners, who provide innovative leadership inspired by creativity and diverse perspectives.

Our History

The Akron Children's Museum was founded by a small group of young parents who, after visiting numerous children's museums throughout the U.S. and querying their peers, determined that such an institution was indeed needed, and could serve Akron and the surrounding region well with Akron-centric, unique experiences. Their plans were set in motion in 2012 and 2013, when the founding board commissioned feasibility and market studies. In 2014 ACM received its nonprofit status from the IRS, added new board members and began fundraising to realize the vision. In 2015, a partnership with The City of Akron was forged with ACM's Holiday Pop-Up Site at Lock 3. We officially opened our doors on November 25, 2016.

What is a children's museum?

Children's museums are places where children learn through play and exploration in environments created JUST FOR THEM.

Reflecting their diverse communities, children's museums create playful, interactive learning experiences. In an increasingly complex world, children's museums provide a place where kids and their families can experience learning and playing together.

More and more families visit children's museums each year for the unique, face-to-face fun, enlightenment and shared experiences not available at other attractions. Children's museums also contribute to the local economy and, in ACM's case, also support efforts to continue the renaissance of our downtown area through addition of more safe, inspired and accessible family activities.

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To be a gathering place for children and families, where play inspires exploration, discovery, and problem solving. We envision a community shaped by lifelong learners, who provide innovative leadership inspired by creativity and diverse perspectives. The Akron Children's Museum was founded by a small group of young parents who, after visiting numerous children's museums throughout the U.S.

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Sample PL-1 Pediatric Resident Agreement 

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Sample PL-1 Pediatric Resident Agreement 

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SAMPLE 2025-2026 PL-1 Pediatric Resident Agreement

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Rock Mill: Climbing, fitness, yoga and coffee bar

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Rock Mill: Climbing, fitness, yoga and coffee bar

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Rock Mill | Climbing, Fitness, Yoga & Coffee Bar

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With 80+ bouldering routes and daily yoga, a fully equipped gym and local drinks on tap, Rock Mill is Akron’s community landing ground for adventure-seekers from all walks of life.

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Though a short distance from the urban areas of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife, and provides routes of discovery for visitors. The winding Cuyahoga River gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. Walk or ride the Towpath Trail to follow the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal.

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Cuyahoga Valley National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

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Though a short distance from the urban areas of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife, and provides routes of discovery for visitors. The winding Cuyahoga River gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands.

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Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is a tourist excursion railway and private sector, nonprofit 501(c)3 organization operating in partnership with Cuyahoga Valley National Park located in Northeast, Ohio.

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This week's Gold Jacket spotlight looks back on Shannon Sharpe's rise from a potential roster cut to Hall of Fame tight end."

News

Read More

NFL founded in Canton on Sept. 17, 1920

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Fans view the Hall of Fame bust gallery.

The temporary Pro Football Hall of Fame exhibit "A Legacy Unleashed" celebrates the rich history of the Cleveland Browns.

A Legacy Unleashed: Peyton Hillis

Browns Legend Peyton Hillis is coming to Canton March 16-17 to help celebrate the limited-time Hall of Fame exhibit "A Legacy Unleashed," which celebrates the rich history of the Cleveland Browns.

Learn more

The temporary Pro Football Hall of Fame exhibit "A Legacy Unleashed" celebrates the rich history of the Cleveland Browns.

A Legacy Unleashed: Phil Dawson, Hanford Dixon, Felix Wright

Browns Legends Phil Dawson, Hanford Dixon and Felix Wright are coming to Canton March 22-23 to help celebrate the limited-time Hall of Fame exhibit "A Legacy Unleashed," which celebrates the rich history of the Cleveland Browns.

Learn more

The temporary Pro Football Hall of Fame exhibit "A Legacy Unleashed" celebrates the rich history of the Cleveland Browns.

A Legacy Unleashed: Greg Pruitt

Browns Legend Greg Pruitt is coming to Canton March 29-30 to help celebrate the limited-time Hall of Fame exhibit "A Legacy Unleashed," which celebrates the rich history of the Cleveland Browns.

Learn more

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Pro Football Hall of Fame | Pro Football Hall of Fame

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Visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio & create long-lasting memories. Learn about the Legends of the Game & experience interactive exhibits.

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Proud to feature the handcrafted works of more than 500 North American artists.

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Registration for Aviation Merit Badge Campout - Fall 2024 is now open! Friday, September 20th through Sunday, September 22nd. [...]

Find out more

Click on the photo below for more information, including registration forms!

Find out more

OUR HISTORY

MAPS Air Museum is an internationally known museum of aviation and serves as a center of aviation history for Northeast Ohio. The museum features exciting educational displays of its collection of acquired artifacts, interactive exhibits and historical archives in its own library.

Whether you have an hour or a whole day, there's something for you at MAPS.

Continue Reading the First 30 years of the MAPS Air Museum History

ON DISPLAY

Fighter Aircraft

Fallen Feathers Memorial

Rosie the Riveter

Pearl Harbor War Memorial

Tuskegee Airmen

Reamer E. Buzz Sewell

Lee Kessler

Nadine Harris-Bluhm

William L. Willaman

Bomber Aircraft

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An internationally known museum of aviation and serves as a center of aviation history for Northeast Ohio that features displays of its aircraft and artifacts.

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The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame announces the Inductee class of 2024.

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Cavaliers - The official site of the NBA for the latest NBA Scores, Stats & News. | NBA.com

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The official site of the National Basketball Association. Follow the action on NBA scores, schedules, stats, news, Team and Player news.

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Official Cleveland Guardians Website | MLB.com

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The official website of the Cleveland Guardians with the most up-to-date information on scores, schedule, stats, tickets and team news.

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Wellness Program

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Wellness Program

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Wellness Program 8.12.25

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency NICU & TNB Rotations 

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency NICU & TNB Rotations 

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency NICU & TN Rotations 9.25

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Simulation 

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Simulation 

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Simulation Curriculum 9.11.25

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Research Curriculum 9.2025

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency RAT Track 8.13.25

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Med Ed Policy for Supporting Culture of Feedback

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Med Ed Policy for Supporting Culture of Feedback

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Department of Medical Education_Trainee Feedback

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency QI Updated 8.27.25

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Community 

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Community 

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Curriculum-ACH Peds Residency Community  9.25

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Downtown events, culture and entertainment provide a wide range of things to do and see. Whether you're looking for a day of family fun or to catch a performance by your favorite band, downtown Akron offers a plenty of options.

From casual eats to upscale dining, you'll find delicious food and great atmosphere when you choose to dine downtown. When it comes to shopping, if you're looking for a gift or something for yourself, downtown shops and services are a must-add to your list.

Grab your friends for a night of dancing or spend the day wandering through galleries featuring artwork by local and world-renowned artists. Enjoy a day of recreation on the Towpath Trail or in downtown's green spaces.

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Downtown events, culture and entertainment provide a wide range of things to do and see. Whether you're looking for a day of family fun or to catch a performance by your favorite band, downtown Akron offers a plenty of options. From casual eats to upscale dining, you'll find delicious food and great atmosphere when you choose to dine downtown.

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Cleveland Browns Home: The official source of the latest Browns headlines, news, videos, photos, tickets, rosters, stats, schedule, and gameday information

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Dr. Bearer's Testimonial: ACH Pediatric Rheumatologist

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Dr. Bearer's Testimonial: ACH Pediatric Rheumatologist

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Dr. Riley's Testimonial: General Pediatrician

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Dr. Riley's Testimonial: General Pediatrician

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We are a not-for-profit performing arts center whose mission is presenting and producing a wide variety of quality performing arts, advancing arts education and creating a destination that is a superior location for entertainment, business and residential living, thereby strengthening the economic vitality of the region.

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Playhouse Square Official ticketing website for performances at Playhouse Square, the not-for-profit performing arts center in downtown Cleveland, Ohio, presenting Broadway, concerts, comedy, dance, film and educational programs.

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Akron Children's Locations and Footprint

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Akron Children's Locations and Footprint

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More healing, more locations ... More childhood, please.™

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Akron Children's Best-In-State Employers List

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Akron Children's Best-In-State Employers List

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Business Journal Daily | The Youngstown Publishing Company

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Akron Children’s Named to Forbes’ Best-In-State Employers List

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Akron Children’s Hospital has been named to the Forbes list of America’s Best-In-State Employers 2025.

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Akron Childrens Pediatric Program Perks At a Glance