Good morning, Akron.

Hillary Yanok and DJ Nivens got engaged in the classroom where they first met—20 years after graduating from high school during a public tour of the old building.

The couple plans to marry and live locally with their dog Josie.

Yesterday, on Valentine's Day, Swensons introduced its new Galley Girl chicken sandwich featuring Swen Red and Swen White sauces, cheese, and a toasted bun held by a pickle chip toothpick; customers may choose fried+grilled options as the sandwich is set to remain on the menu.

Readers shared cherished memories of Akron’s historic Loew’s Theater and Skunk Hill, recalling a 1951 movie visit and playful winter sledding near where the new high school now stands plus they discussed mispronounced words and the origin of the idiom goody two-shoes.

Akron native LeBron James continues to build on his legacy by supporting the I Promise School that helps at-risk students from his childhood in Spring Hill Apartments.

ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst will speak at an Akron Roundtable on Thursday, Feb. 19 to highlight his ongoing impact on the community.

On Friday, Feb. 13 the Mega Millions drawing did not produce a jackpot winner but awarded thousands of smaller prizes across Ohio.

The jackpot climbs to $395 million with a cash option of $183.3 million for the next drawing scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 11:00 p.m.

Akron officials are reviewing five proposals for preserving Firestone Plant #1 — including a costly option to keep only the clock tower.

A preservation commission will meet Tuesday as the city requests extra time to finalize the plan while gathering community feedback.

A fifth grader in Strongsville is raising heart health awareness during Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week.

Ivan, who survived emergency heart surgery as an infant (his rare condition affects about 1% of cases), now teaches peers CPR and healthy habits to help save lives.

Stray Dog Café will host a Mardi Gras celebration tomorrow from noon to 7 p.m. at Lock 3’s Winter Wonderland Room, serving dishes like crawfish etouffee and alligator gumbo — orders include dine-in, carry-out options and family-size trays.

Akron Zips basketball players Tavari Johnson + Amani Lyles reflected on a physical clash during their win over UMass.

Video footage captures key moments from the game.

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.

Shrek The Musical

7:30 p.m. — Weathervane Playhouse — Check venue for pricing — Enjoy a delightful family tale of an ogre's journey and fairy tale misfits.

Man of La Mancha

3-4 p.m. — Ohio Shakespeare Festival — Ticket prices vary — Immerse yourself in the classic tale of hope and imagination through the vibrant performance of Man of La Mancha.

Canstruction Awards Reception

4-7:30 p.m. — Circle of 5ths — RSVP required — Celebrate creativity in canned food art and enjoy a lively networking happy hour.

Sip & Stitch Craft Night

6:30-8 p.m. — HiHO Brewing Co. — Cost varies — Enjoy a cozy evening of knitting, crocheting, and sewing while sipping craft beers.