Good morning, Akron.

McDonald's in Northeast Ohio reported that increased sales of Shamrock Shake and OREO Shamrock McFlurry on April 8 raised ($115,773) for Ronald McDonald House Charities to assist families near Akron Children's Hospital.

A new Safe Passages program is placing community volunteers in neon vests outside Buchtel Community Learning Center to help students travel safely during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Marcel McDaniel leads the pilot (supported by the GAR Foundation) and plans to gather feedback to improve safety.

Akron's Burger Battle finals pitted Bob's Hamburg and Swensons following nearly 2,400 reader votes.

Votes end just before midnight Sunday, April 12 — check back Tuesday, April 14 to see which burger joint earns local bragging rights.

Akron Zoo has rescheduled its DinoTrek exhibit to open May 16 due to shipping delays and it will run through Sept.

8 featuring 30 life-size dinosaurs (including T. rex, Velociraptor, Iguanodon, and Ceratosaurus).

Heavy rains caused roof leaks at Pfeiffer and Essex elementary schools during spring break — prompting Akron Public Schools to hire contractors for roof repairs and cleanup, while administrators work with families regarding water-damaged belongings and plans to close Pfeiffer when its new school opens in 2028.

Akron Public Schools is repairing Pfeiffer and Essex elementary schools after heavy rainfall caused roof damage and water affected student lockers.

The district hired contractors, and custodians are cleaning water-damaged areas while families of affected students will be notified soon.

EPA and Gov. DeWine said yesterday (after recent tests) that northeast Ohio’s air is cleaner and officials will continue tracking air quality to ensure public safety.

Akron is investing $500,000 in traffic calming this summer to install 13 new speed tables and 40 solar speed limit signs on multiple roads, with installations scheduled for late June or early July (additional projects include reduced speed limits on Delia and Albrecht Avenues and restriping three roads).

The Urban Design and Historic Preservation Commission approved a plan to demolish Akron’s Firestone Plant No. 1 and build a memorial using clock tower elements, pending approval from the State Historic Preservation Office.

Demolition funds will be confirmed by the Ohio Department of Development & Summit County Land Bank.

Akron’s Planning Commission renewed programs last month to sell nearly 400 city-owned lots through Mow to Own, Welcome Home Akron, and the Summit Lake Lot Sale.

The programs offer options for property expansion or new home construction with purchase restrictions — inquiries go to the Office of Integrated Development.

The Akron Beacon Journal named 15 players to its 2025-26 high school girls basketball all-star team (including standouts from Hoban, STVM, Copley, Wadsworth, Norton, and Twinsburg) after local teams competed in state tournaments on April 8.

The Akron RubberDucks have named Noel Blaha (a longtime Minor League Baseball executive with 21 years of experience) as their new president and general manager.

He will succeed Jim Pfander, who is leaving at the end of May.

Easter Plant Bingo Night

7 PM – 1 AM — Acorn & Evergreen Floral Studio — BYOB — Celebrate Easter with plants, prizes, and a fun night of bingo amidst springtime cheer.

Puppy Pals Live

3-5 p.m. — Goodyear Theater — Family-friendly event — Enjoy rescued dogs showcasing their skills in a playful and entertaining performance.

Winter Concert: Little Jazz Heritage Orchestra

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Happy Days Lodge — Tickets: $20 for members, $25 general — Experience an evening of vibrant big band jazz with the Little Jazz Heritage Orchestra.

Sharel Cassity Live

7:30-9:30 p.m. — E.J. Thomas Hall — Tickets from $42 — Experience the unforgettable performance of Sharel Cassity in Akron, OH.

Revisiting Creedence Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — E.J. Thomas Hall — Tickets from $64 — Relive the legendary tunes of Creedence Clearwater Revival in an unforgettable live performance.

Taste of Coventry

6-9 p.m. — Gather at the Lakes Event Venue — Proceeds benefit Coventry Schools Foundation — Sample local cuisine while enjoying raffles and silent auctions.

Stomp Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — E.J. Thomas Hall — Tickets starting at $54 — Experience an unforgettable night of rhythm and energy with Stomp in Akron.

An Evening with Derek Hough

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Canton Palace Theatre — $0.00 - $75.00 USD — Experience the inspiring journey of three-time Emmy Award winner Derek Hough and his life lessons through dance.

Curtain Up FUNraiser 50th Anniversary

6-2:30 p.m. — North Canton Playhouse — $26.13 — Enjoy a weekend of variety shows, games, and food while supporting a local cause.

3rd Annual CHESS FOR CURE Open

6 AM - 6 AM — The East End — Registration required — Engage in competitive chess while supporting a noble cause in Akron.