Good morning, Akron.

Today, a partial solar eclipse will begin at 11:34 a.m. ET with its peak at 1:46 p.m. ET for Akron residents — experts advise using ISO-approved solar eclipse glasses for safe viewing.

The Akron Urban League furloughed its leaders, including President and CEO John Williams, due to financial challenges reported yesterday + Larry Chadwick now manages daily operations as the board works to stabilize community programs.

Akron’s PorchRokr music festival will return to Highland Square on Aug.

15 with 161 acts performing at 40 venues plus a beer tent, food trucks, a kids zone and a silent disco. Metro RTA will provide free rides for attendees.

Akron-area couple Riley and Trevor Hykes (recognized as Multimedia Master winners) run @hikingwithhykes to share local and regional hiking adventures.

The pair plans to inspire community explorers with fresh content and a bucket list trip to Yosemite scheduled for September.

Akron Public Schools banned backpacks and large purses from events on district property as part of new safety rules announced on Aug.

11. The restrictions allow only clear clutch-sized bags (up to 8.3x6.5x3.3 inches) and include extra security measures for athletic games.

After Monday's storms caused damage and forced the zoo to close, Tuesday's heavy rain and 75 mph wind gusts brought renewed risk, and Akron faces ongoing severe weather today — with potential flooding and further damage into Thursday.

Gov. DeWine updated on storm damage in Columbus on Aug.

11 and warned that flooding would worsen over the next several days, while heavy winds forced the Akron Zoo to close Monday before it reopened Tuesday.

Historic Leonora Hall (formerly a convent and women’s shelter) in Highland Square was acquired by Grace House Akron on Aug.

11 through an anonymous donation. The nonprofit is evaluating the property and will explore possibilities to serve community needs over the coming months.

Akron-area voters are invited to choose the top high school football game of the 2025-26 season (voting closes at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, Aug.

13) with winners to be announced Friday, Aug. 14 on BeaconJournal.com.