Good morning, Akron.

The Titan Arum plant at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron is blooming and gives off a rotting meat smell, with the display lasting *two to three days* and likely not returning for another decade.

Visitors can see the exhibit today between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The Akron Art Museum kicked off a $13 million capital campaign called Create the Future on Friday to renovate its historic 1899 building and add new interactive galleries and classrooms for school tours.

The museum remains open during construction — exhibits and programs continue without interruption.

A local documentary from Grace Academy of Small Wonders examines the impact of suicide and gun violence on Akron’s Black community — featuring interviews with residents and officials that reveal personal trauma and systemic challenges.

The film, which took over two years to produce, will have a public screening at House Three Thirty in October.

Northampton Point — built in collaboration between Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Summit Metro Parks — opened on July 10 in Cuyahoga Falls to give paddlers a new access point along the Cuyahoga River with parking, seating, a launch area and portable restroom.

Paddlers have a 6-mile trip from Cascade Valley Metro Park to the point and a 7.5-mile paddle from the point to Lock 29.

The Guardians told teams they will not trade relievers Emmanuel Clase and Cade Smith ahead of the July 31 trade deadline—Clase converted 20 saves this season and Smith has shown promise as a future closer.

Joe Whitman—an Akron native and Hudson High School graduate—pitched six innings for the Richmond Flying Squirrels in a 2-1 win over the RubberDucks on July 9 at Canal Park.

He struck out six batters and allowed four hits as he maintained his role among the Giants' top prospects.

Akron’s Derby Downs will host the 87th International Soap Box Derby race week with a parade at noon on July 14 from Canal Park to Lock 3 and pre-championship races starting July 15 for 320 racers aged 7 to 20.

The race week ends with championship races at 8:30 a.m. on July 19 and an awards ceremony at 7 p.m.—additional events include All-Star, Legacy and Super Kids races as well as a vintage car show.

Ninja Adventure Half Day Camp

12:30-4 p.m. — Super Ninja World — Pricing varies — Experience thrilling ninja activities in a co-ed environment for ages 6-14.

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.

Rock of Ages

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — VIP tickets and packages available — Experience an unforgettable night of classic rock music and entertainment.

Halfway to Christmas Expo

10 AM – 4 PM — John S. Knight Center — $1 donation at the door — Celebrate Christmas halfway with festive vendors, food, and fun activities.

Uncle Tito's Mexican Grill 10th Anniversary Celebration

2-5 p.m. — Uncle Tito's Mexican Grill — Free registration — Celebrate with cars, music, food, and fun for the whole family.

Stretch Social with Flo

10:00 – 11:30 PM — Outdoor Space — Free entry — A gentle stretch session for relaxation and community connection.

Idolos, Orion's Sword, Wendy's Ash Concert

7-11 p.m. — Musica — $10 — Experience local rock talent with Idolos and Orion's Sword alongside Wendy's Ash.

Parcours Hike and Picnic

10 a.m. — Sand Run Metroparks — Free registration required — Enjoy a refreshing hike followed by a relaxing picnic with your packed lunch.

Club Car / Pepsi SP #6 Golf Tournament

Event Time — Portage Country Club — Cost Info — Participate in an exciting golf tournament at a scenic venue.

Euchre Game Night

12:30-1:30 p.m. — Kenmore Community Center — Free entry — A friendly afternoon of card-playing excitement awaits enthusiasts of all skill levels.