Good morning, Akron.

The 10th annual Summit Brew Path has kicked off as of Jan.

3 in Summit County, inviting craft beer fans to collect stamps at 18 local breweries and enter for a chance to win cash prizes. Participants who complete the trail will later join a Brew Path Bash featuring tastings, games, and food.

Portage County businesses added hundreds of jobs in 2025, and leaders forecast a big 2026 boost with projects like LayerZero Power Systems’ expansion—expected to add 535 jobs at its Streetsboro facility—and new developments in Aurora, Ravenna, and Kent that will benefit local communities.

Barberton and Summit County will host a community forum at the Active Adult Center on Jan.

12 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Representatives from Job and Family Services will explain upcoming changes to Medicaid and SNAP while local providers offer additional resources.

James Starks, founder of Boss Fitted Training Facility (1035 Rosemary Blvd), turned his life around and now offers early morning group sessions at a private Akron gym that promotes physical and mental strength.

The gym hosts community events such as youth fitness days.

In Akron, gym owner James Starks shared his fitness journey and how overcoming personal challenges led to the founding of Boss Fitted gym.

His story highlights the role of active living in inspiring others to embrace a healthier lifestyle.

Trinity Heath (a key athlete for Kent Roosevelt) won four events at a Suburban League American Conference meet and discussed her performance after the event.

Wadsworth junior Tony Canfora (a standout swimmer) won three events at the Suburban League Swim meet on Saturday, Jan.

3 and later shared his thoughts on his performance. His wins mark a promising achievement in local high school sports.

On Friday, CVCA won 78 to 68 with Gray and Collins leading the team, and St. Vincent—St. Mary ended Garfield's six game win streak by a 64 to 61 score.

Tuesday, Streetsboro beat Kent Roosevelt 58 to 43 and Lake edged Tallmadge 56 to 52 in local high school games.

Hudson senior Madeline Drolshagen (a top performer) won four events at the Suburban League National Conference swim meet and shared her thoughts on the experience.

Richard Lloyd Live Performance

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Musica — $23 — Experience the legendary guitarist Richard Lloyd as he showcases classic rock sounds in an intimate setting.

Spiritual New Year's Resolution Discussion

9:30-11:30 a.m. — Portage Path CLC — Free entry — Explore the spiritual path to happiness and personal growth inspired by Bahá’í teachings.

Karaoke Thursday at Musica

9 PM - 1 AM — Musica — Free entry — Grab a drink and take the mic at this fun karaoke night.

Susan Carson Live at Front St Social

7-11 p.m. — Front St Social — Free entry — Experience an evening of diverse music by Susan Carson and Rikk Mayr.

Female Fronted Rock Night

7-10 p.m. — Musica — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy an evening filled with vibrant performances by talented female-fronted bands.

DJ Dracula

8-11 p.m. — Musica — Free entry — DJ Dracula returns to spin classic alternative, new wave, and punk vinyl for a nostalgic night out.

FREE FRIDAY: Outdated View, Cabin Fever, SpAIR Jordans

8-11 p.m. — Musica — Free entry — Enjoy a night of psychedelic blues rock and indie vibes from three amazing bands.

Square Records Closing Fundraiser

7-10 p.m. — Musica — $9.07 — Celebrate the legacy of Square Records as it bids farewell to Akron's music scene.

TB Book Club Meeting

6-7:30 p.m. — 750ml Wines Akron — Open to all Torchbearers — Connect over books and join a fun book swap at this month's meeting.

Cucina Demonstration Dinner – Home-Style Tuscan Comforts

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa — $75.00 - $80.00 USD — Explore comforting Tuscan recipes and culinary techniques in an engaging demonstration dinner.