PBS Western Reserve presents a collection of stories that are singularly focused on the region that we all call home. Explore the people, places, history and events that make Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania so special.
About Our Region — April 2025
Published on
A PBS Western Reserve Production
Around Akron with Blue Green
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Tuesday, April 1, at 10:30 PM
This monthly half-hour shines a spotlight on all of the good things that Akron has to offer. Each show consists of four stories, including segments on dining, arts and culture, history, business, and movers and shakers.
Presented by PBS Western Reserve
Forum 360
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
First Monday of every month at 5 PM and 5:30 PM
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Mondays at 7:30 PM and Saturdays at 5 PM
This public affairs series provides a local viewpoint on global topics. Subjects covered are both educational and entertaining, and are hosted by a Northeast Ohio community member who assists in determining the show’s content.
Presented by PBS Western Reserve and The Summit FM
Studio C Sessions
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Saturdays at 10:30 PM
Sundays at 2:30 AM
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Sundays at 8 PM
Enjoy live performances that capture artists and audiences connecting in the closest of confines. To experience these unique concerts live, you have to be a member of The Summit FM, a public radio station serving Akron, Canton and Youngstown. This series allows you to watch these intimate music moments on PBS Western Reserve.
Presented by PBS Western Reserve
The Ohio & Erie Canal
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1)
Sunday, April 6, at 5:30 PM
Monday, April 7, at 5:30 AM
From its immense benefits to commerce in the 1800s to its present-day natural, historic and recreational importance, the Ohio and Erie Canal has impacted life in Ohio and the nation.
Presented by PBS Western Reserve
The World According to Polka, Cleveland Kurentovanje
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Tuesday, April 8, at 10:30 PM
Wednesday, April 9, at 3:30 AM
Cleveland’s Chardon Polka Band takes you on the road to teach you about the rich history and lively culture surrounding polka. Embrace winter traditions while learning about the history of Cleveland Kurentovanje, a festival held at the Slovenian National Home. The band performs songs including “Polka All Night,” “Silk Umbrella,” “The Midnight Special” and more. Lead singer Jake Kouwe is joined by ukelele songstress Sara Beth Lowe for a snowy outdoor performance.
A PBS Western Reserve Production
Under Fire, Under Siege: Strike Breakers in Kent, Ohio
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Tuesday, April 15, at 9 PM
In 1936, two truckloads of Cleveland strikebreakers crashed through a peaceful picket line in Kent, OH. They fired sawed-off shotguns and tear gas in an attempt to intimidate the workers and break a six-week-old strike at the Black & Decker Co. The strikebreakers not only failed to end the strike but had the tables reversed on them as strikers and sympathizers fired rifles at them for six hours.
Watch UNDER FIRE, UNDER SIEGE: STRIKE BREAKERS IN KENT, OHIO.
A PBS Western Reserve Production
Akron 200: Forgotten History Forum Series, Trailblazing Women of Akron
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Thursday, April 17, at 6 PM
Monday, April 28, at 9 PM
Explore the history and legacy of trailblazing women in Akron with a dynamic panel of women moderated by Leianne Neff Heppner, president and CEO of Summit County Historical Society. Panelists include May Chen, Carrie Herman, Towanda Mullins, Norma Rist and Barbara Varley.
A PBS Western Reserve Production
By Nature’s Design: Exploring Our Native Wildlife, Welcome to the Wetlands
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Tuesday, April 22, at 8 PM
Wednesday, April 23, at 1 AM
Thursday, April 24, at 4 PM
Saturday, April 26, at 10 PM
Sunday, April 27, at 2 AM & 11 AM
Monday, April 28, at 5:30 AM
Discover an ecosystem under threat and the people and forces working to save it — the fascinating world of the wetlands. Exploring Ohio’s diminished wetlands, this episode examines the dangers wetlands are facing and what can be done to preserve them with the help of local experts.
Learn more about BY NATURE’S DESIGN: EXPLORING OUR NATIVE WILDLIFE.
A PBS Western Reserve Production
City Centric, Medina
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Tuesday, April 22, at 8:30 PM
Wednesday, April 23, at 1:30 AM
PBS Western Reserve presents an inspiring series highlighting passionate individuals who reflect the fabric of their cities.
Medina-centric guests featured are Nichole Schill, community education coordinator at Medina County Park District; Andrew Dutton, the city of Medina’s community development director; Michelle Powell, founding director of Let’s Make a Difference; Craig Staufer, local artist; Brian Feron, president of Medina County Historical Society; and Arthur Ruffin, pastor and community organizer.
Presented by PBS Western Reserve, Ideastream Public Media and the
University of Akron’s Media Studies program
Akron Roundtable
Fusion (WNEO 45.2 / WEAO 49.2):
Thursday, April 24, at 6 PM
Since 1976, the Akron Roundtable has brought new ideas to Akron. Now, PBS Western Reserve, Ideastream Public Media and the University of Akron’s Media Studies program are partnering with the Akron Roundtable to bring those ideas to our region at large. The Akron Roundtable’s signature series delivers thought-provoking presentations on a wide range of topics from speakers of global, national and regional importance.
In April, AKRON ROUNDTABLE presents “In Search of Solutions to the Challenges Facing U.S. Immigrants and Refugees,” hosted by scholar and journalist Steven T. Savides in conversation with Madhu Sharma, the executive director of the International Institute of Akron, and Farhad Sethna, an attorney at Immigration America.
Antiques Roadshow, Vintage Cleveland
PBS Western Reserve (WNEO 45.1 / WEAO 49.1):
Monday, April 28, at 2 PM & 9 PM
Tuesday, April 29, at 2 AM
A 1979 Kent State apology, a Patek Philippe watch and a Herter Brothers sideboard are featured.
