Good morning, Akron.

John D. Ong, the former B.F.

Goodrich chief who shifted the company into aerospace and specialty chemicals, died June 4 at 92 from kidney failure (he was respected for his long-standing community service in Akron).

Akron is hosting its first Blimp Day today as Goodyear's blimp program marks 101 years of flight.

Two blimps (Wingfoot One and Wingfoot Two) will fly from 9 a.m. to noon over all 24 neighborhoods while a photo contest invites locals to submit their best shots.

The annual Steam in the Valley event kicked off Friday with the Nickel Plate Road No. 765, a historic 1944 locomotive built in Lima that thrilled families at Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

The event continues over the next two weekends as locals can enjoy close-up experiences with steam-powered trains.

Teacher Rob Yanko retired after 55 years at Hudson High and Hoban High, using engaging storytelling and 'Yanko-isms' to inspire his students.

He ended his final week with plans to tutor and travel with his wife (a retired speech therapist) as he transitions to a new chapter.

During a May 29 conference at Akron Children's, experts urged adults to talk with kids about gun safety while sharing best practices—such as treating every firearm as loaded and securing them—to help reduce youth gun violence in the community.

Renovations at the Hilton Garden Inn in Akron’s East End are complete — the updates include a larger foodservice area featuring local honey and a refreshed pool and exercise facility, part of a revitalization project led by Industrial Realty Group.

The Hilton Garden Inn in Middlebury now sports a refreshed look after a soft-goods renovation finished in February.

The hotel updated guest rooms, the Garden Grille, ballroom & fitness center and works with local partners such as Hatch's Honey to support community ties.

At Good Park on June 5, Dr. J played in the Williams Challenge Golf Tournament and recalled local legends Nate Thurmond and Gus Johnson.

His remarks honored their legacies and celebrated Akron’s rich basketball history.

Kids’ Pokémon Club

6-7 p.m. — Canal Fulton Public Library — Free registration required — Calling all Pokémon Trainers for a fun meet-up bringing cards and camaraderie.

Sow and Grow Festival

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Hale Farm & Village — $15 adults, $8 children — Experience a 19th-century farm with historic crafts, plant sales, and local artisan goods.

Akron Epilepsy Support Group

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Fairlawn Kiwanis Community Center — Free entry — Connect with others in the Akron area to share experiences and strategies for managing epilepsy.

Grease at Porthouse Theatre

8:00 – 10:30 PM — Porthouse Theatre — Tickets vary — Experience the lively musical ‘Grease’ bringing back the spirit of Rydell High’s Class of 1959.

Chevy Terrill Stand-Up Comedy Show

6-7:30 p.m. — The Killbox Comedy Club — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughter with local comedian Chevy Terrill, who brings humor to life with a unique perspective.

Family Storytime at the Library

10:30 – 11:30 AM — Northwest Akron Branch Library — Free entry — Experience a delightful morning of storytelling and learning for families in the community.

Parade

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Weathervane Playhouse — Tickets starting at $95 — Experience the unforgettable live performance of Parade in Akron, OH.

Live Music with Teddy Rob

6-9 p.m. — The Piazza at Gervasi Vineyard — Cost info not provided — Experience the rising country star Teddy Robb as he performs in a beautiful vineyard setting.

Canton Comedy Boom Variety Show

8-9:30 p.m. — Canton Comedy Boom — $16.50 online / $20 at door — Experience a high-energy mix of stand-up, sketch, improv, and musical comedy featuring talented local performers.

Preschool Field Day

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Northwest Akron Branch Library — Free entry — Enjoy outdoor lawn games and water activities at this family-friendly event.