Good morning, Akron.

The Coffee Pot (Summit County's oldest restaurant in Barberton) was auctioned off on Jan.

8 and now has new owners.

On Jan. 7, AEP Ohio announced a settlement that—if approved by the Public Utilities Commission—will cut the average residential customer's distribution charge by $1.22 per month and upgrade local poles, wires, and transformers with the new rate taking effect 14 days after approval.

APS is working to fill 94 teaching spots and has hired 34 teachers + six more will join soon to cut vacancies to 54.

The district is focusing on special education hires while managing an $11 million gap, and says putting certified teachers in classrooms remains a top priority.

State data shows only 31% of Ohio’s class of 2026 completed FAFSA as of late December, leaving $100 million in aid unclaimed.

Akron schools reported a 24.5% rate while suburban and rural districts fared better; the Ohio Department of Higher Education is working to boost awareness (revised forms have shortened completion time).

Summit County launched an online dog licensing platform on Dec.

1 to update its outdated in-house system. Dog owners can now use DocuPet (an East Syracuse-based service) to apply for new licenses or renewals.

The FDA has upgraded the recall of several Pecorino Romano brands, including Boar's Head, Locatelli, and Ambriola, to Class I due to listeria risks; consumers in Akron and other affected areas should check refrigerators for these products with expiration dates into 2026 + claim a full refund if purchased.

Rylee Kulick of Copley and Tony Canfora of Wadsworth were named Akron-Area Athletes of the Week for Dec.

29-Jan. 4, with Kulick receiving 52.67% and Canfora 57.50% of the 31,140 votes cast.

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FREE FRIDAY: Outdated View, Cabin Fever, SpAIR Jordans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.

Cherry Yachtsman Album Release Party

8-11 p.m. — Musica — $10 online / $15 at the door — Celebrate the release of 'Bison' with Cherry Yachtsman and special guests.

Valentine's Day Paint Your Pet

2-5 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Cost varies — Capture your beloved pet on canvas during this custom painting class.