Good morning, Akron.

Canton resident Dennis VanFossen Jr., a former Soap Box Derby World Champion, was named president and CEO of the Akron-based Derby last November — he said his racing background will help inspire local youth as the organization plans for future events.

Residents remember Lorelei Green, a cherished student at Copley-Fairlawn City Schools who passed away on Jan.

14 after multiple surgeries and hospital stays. Her enduring resilience fostered empathy among classmates and neighbors + united the community.

Buckeye Chuck (Ohio's official groundhog) will emerge from his burrow at Marion County Fairgrounds between 7 and 8 a.m. today to forecast if winter will linger or if spring will come early; listeners can tune in on 1490 WMRN and on his Facebook page.

Akron celebrates Black History Month with varied events; visitors can see exhibits at Akron Zoo until March 3, join a virtual art series on Feb.

5 at Maple Valley Library, and attend guided tours, concerts, and workshops this month. Local groups host free events highlighting African American art and history.

Akron city officials ordered Spring Hill Apartments to clear a cockroach infestation that halted mail delivery and repair trash and elevator issues; the building owners must show progress by Feb.

28 or face fines + potential criminal penalties.

The Cavaliers traded De'Andre Hunter to the Kings, acquiring Dennis Schroder & Keon Ellis in a three-team deal that sent Dario Saric and two second-round picks to Chicago while saving about $50 million in luxury tax penalties.

The Cavaliers acquired guards Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder from Sacramento in a three-team deal that sent forward De’Andre Hunter to the Kings.

Chicago will get forward Dario Saric plus two second-round picks while Cleveland benefited from salary relief and improved depth.

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.

Galentine's Sea Glass Trees and Collage Craft Night

6-8 p.m. — P.F. Chang's — Food and drinks available for purchase — Create beautiful sea glass trees or collages in a fun atmosphere.

Business Networking at House Three Thirty

9-10 a.m. — House Three Thirty — Free entry — Connect with fellow Outstanding Ohioans in a vibrant community setting.

Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Concert

7-10 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Tickets required — Experience high-energy live performances featuring catchy tunes and impressive stage presence.

Midweek Jump Off with Smokeface & Brainwreck

9:00–11:45 p.m. — Musica — $7 entry — Enjoy a live band and DJ experience featuring weekly guests as the bar opens at 7 PM.

Girl Scout Launch Event in West Akron

6-7 p.m. — Northwest Family Recreation — Free entry — Explore space-themed activities and kick off your Girl Scout journey with hands-on learning and fun.

Zipcon 2026

10 AM – 10 PM — Jean Hower Taber Student Union — $10 entry — Immerse yourself in anime culture at this one-day convention hosted by the University of Akron's Anime Club.

Meet The Maker Mixer

5-7 p.m. — The Well CDC — Free entry — Experience local culinary delights while supporting community food entrepreneurs and enjoying live music.