Good morning, Akron.

Signal Akron’s events calendar shows family-friendly festivals, outdoor concerts, art exhibits, and block parties coming up in Akron and Summit County.

It also features volunteer opportunities and public meetings that let residents stay informed and connected.

Gary Dean from First Glance Student Center is using a $150,000 grant and local volunteer help to build a permanent DIY skate park on unused tennis courts at Prentiss Park in Kenmore.

Construction will begin in late March or early April.

Therapy dog Nola stars in a new children’s book, 'Nola the Noble Corgi Visits the Hospital' (launching March 10), drawing on her work with Akron Children’s Doggie Brigade to comfort patients during hospital visits.

The book, written by her owner Matt Swinehart, shares her journey from puppy to therapy dog.

Fairlawn City Council updated residents on several projects after winter, including work at Rosemont Preserve (the former golf course), the start of the North South Trailway today on South Cleveland-Massillon Road, and a $1.14 million Riveria Street repair project; Bicentennial Park will reopen March 5.

Summit County officials (Prosecutor Kolkovich and Sheriff Fatheree) announced an expansion of the Take Me Home program to include individuals with mental, behavioral, and substance abuse disorders.

The program, which began in 2007, now assists over 2,000 residents in safely reconnecting with their families.

U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes today announced a $500,000 EPA grant for the Summit and Medina Workforce Area Council to train 40 residents for environmental cleanup jobs.

The program will help place at least 30 participants in work such as asbestos abatement and lead paint remediation (fields may expand further).

Akron City Council approved a March 2 resolution to rename a portion of Orrin Street as Orlando Green Way in honor of the late coach who served at Buchtel Community Learning Center.

His daughter and wife presented the tribute, and the new street sign will be installed this spring.

Akron City Council unanimously approved renaming Schneider Park to Schneider Memorial Park (to honor hundreds buried beneath) as part of a nine-year effort by local resident Jane Greenland.

The administration, led by Mayor Malik, will plan a renaming event soon.

Stewart’s Caring Place will host its 20th annual Hope Walk for those affected by cancer on Saturday, May 2 at 8 a.m. in Fairlawn (3501 Ridge Park Dr.) and at Sippo Lake Park to fund free support groups, counseling, and wellness programs.

Trailhead Community Health Foundation is forming in Akron after the sale of Summa Health System to a for-profit group (HATCo) in 2025, and is finalizing plans to lease downtown office space, recruit staff, and start grantmaking by late 2026 or early 2027.

Akron's football team will be postseason eligible in 2026 after the NCAA lifted restrictions following a jump in academic scores; they must finish with enough wins to enter the MAC Championship or a bowl game.

The season starts Sept. 3 at Wake Forest (schedule details to be released soon).

Golf legend John Daly will be honored with the Ambassador of Golf Award at Firestone Country Club in July during the Kaulig Companies Championship.

The ceremony will recognize his lasting impact on the sport.

Boys high school wrestling tournaments kick off today in the Akron/Canton area at five district sites, including Wadsworth and Perrysburg High Schools — events feature returning team and individual champions with updated schedules in Divisions I, II, and III, setting the stage for state competition.

Former All-Star David Fry is back playing in the field and at the plate after recovering from Tommy John surgery and facial injuries (showing the confidence missing last season).

His return gives the Guardians a boost against left-handed pitchers.

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.

Iris Blue Live

8-11 p.m. — Musica — $12 online / $15 at the door — Enjoy an evening of indie rock with Chicago’s Iris Blue and support from local favorites.

Akron Mini Renaissance Festival

5 PM - 1 AM — The Green Dragon Inn — $15 per day — Celebrate with costumes, vendors, and live entertainment at Akron’s vibrant Renaissance Festival.

Ballet Excel Ohio Presents: Aladdin

2-5 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Family-friendly event — Experience the enchanting ballet adaptation of Aladdin with stunning performances and a journey of love and adventure.

An Evening with Terry Virts

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Canton Palace Theatre — $0.00 - $75.00 — Hear astronaut Terry Virts share insights from his space missions and photography adventures.

I’D LIKE TO GO HOME NOW Album Release

7-8 p.m. — The Rialto Theatre — $5 surcharge for under 21 — Experience the unique blend of folk and rock as I’d Like to Go Home Now celebrates their debut album with local acts.

Great Lakes Indoor Sectionals & National Series 2026 - Bounce Archery

12 p.m. — 5676 Manchester Rd, Akron, OH — Early registration required — Compete in the indoor archery sectional for national rankings with flexible shooting rounds.

Akron Singles Speed Dating Event

7-9 p.m. — P.F. Chang's — Ticket required — Connect with up to 12 potential matches during a fun evening of speed dating.

Vintage Record Clock Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Nauti Vine Winery — All supplies included — Create a unique vintage record clock while enjoying a fun and creative atmosphere.