Community Pulse

Our guests today are Jennifer Syx with J6 Advisors and Carmen DeVeau with EDG Creative, and we're talking about branding's influence on community and economic development. A strong brand tells the story of the community and if well-managed, it can be a real differentiator and provide a competitive advantage for attracting investment, promoting tourism, and attracting families and businesses. Join us to hear how these two talented ladies are working with communities across Ohio to create lasting impacts.

On this episode, we're joined by the Regional Planner of Eastgate Regional Council of Governments, Justin Mondok. Justin discusses current programs the Youngstown-area Metropolitan Planning Organization offers to its community, including air quality monitoring through mahoningvalleyair.org and automible pollution control through Gohio Commute.

On this episode, we are joined by City of Canton, City Engineer, Dan Moeglin. With over 16 years experience, Dan has significant involvement in large scale, multi-disciplinary infrastructure projects, and has been responsible for a $5.2 million annual operating budget and a $5 million annual capital construction program. A dedicated resident of Canton, Ohio, Dan shares his leadership style, visions, and ideas to keep the City of Canton moving forward.

Covid-19 cost the East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation nearly half a million dollars. With a mission to ensure access to affordable, healthy housing, CEO Cheryl Stephens shares what ignited her passion for sustainable economic development and the philosophy that guides her organization through turbulent times. Tune in to explore how she utilizes her past experiences and current positions to support economic and community development.

On this episode, we're joined by Dan Rice, President and CEO of the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition. Since 1994, Dan has built more than 150 community partnerships to develop the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage Area and Towpath Trail. He has provided organizations with assistance on organizational development, public/private partnership building, fundraising strategies, management plans, and government relations. Tune in to this episode to find out how faith, vision, and polite tenacity has transformed the Towpath Trail from 16 miles to almost 100 miles with over 500 miles of connector trails.

On this episode, we're joined by Glenn M. Broska. Currently serving his third term as Mayor of the City of Streetsboro, his love for the City runs deep. As a 36-year resident of the great city of Streetsboro, Glenn offers the unique perspective of someone who has had a front row seat to the city's growth. Tune in to this episode to find out what makes Streetsboro so special and how infrastructure is connecting the city.

On this episode, we're joined by Dr. Christopher Miller founder of Fontus Blue, Inc., an Associate Professor in the Civil Engineering Department at the University of Akron, and a registered Professional Engineer. His Fontus Blue firm specializes in water operations and treatment optimization that help deliver “Exceptional Drinking Water” to small and large communities around the globe. Working together with Fontus Blue, the City of Akron had its best lead results in the past 30 years while saving over $1 million this past year.” Join us as we talk with Chris about the future of water quality in our communities.

How do you garner support for capital improvements in a 130-year-old park system? On this episode, we're joined by Mill Creek Metroparks Executive Director, Aaron Young. Amid a 15-year capital improvement push to see long overdue infrastructure needs addressed in the Metroparks, Aaron shares the significance of the “people” component in successfully implementing strategic plans. Join us as we dive into Aaron's vision for the future of Mill Creek Metroparks and the steps involved in making it happen.

“Don't forget who you are or where you come from.” On this episode, we're joined by the 51st Mayor of the City of Youngstown, Tito Brown. Previously serving the residents of Youngstown as President of Council, 3rd Ward City Councilman and Member of the Youngstown City School Board, Mayor Brown explores the accomplishments, initiatives and challenges involved in guiding the City of Youngstown through disruption and beyond.

“Its not just about the idea, its about the execution of the idea.” On this episode, we are joined by industry leader, entrepreneur, and Bounce Innovation Hub's first CEO, Doug Weintraub. A lifelong resident of Akron, Ohio, Doug explores how he is building meaningful relationships and businesses, growing ideas and brining activity back downtown!