Good morning, Akron.

J.M. Smucker Company is donating a 19,000-square-foot building, 30 acres of land, and $1 million over five years to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank in its largest donation ever.

The foodbank will take possession in the spring when the Smucker Retail Store closes in January and plans to use the space to help more than 15,000 Wayne County residents facing food insecurity.

Blue Door Cafe and Bakery in Cuyahoga Falls was inspired by a summer trip to Paris—owner Michael Bruno increased butter in croissants by 50% and lowered prices while adding a French jambon beurre sandwich to the menu.

The new dough divider machine speeds up bread-making—cutting labor and waste so savings pass on to customers.

Akron Zoo will rededicate the John Brown Monument on Sept.

28 with a wreath-laying ceremony starting at 3 p.m. plus speakers, music, and activities through 6 p.m.; attendees must reserve a spot by email or phone and park in Lot B near the main entrance.

Akron Public Schools is hosting a virtual tour of the planned Pfeiffer/Miller South schools to show local residents the design and features of the new facility—this tour will let community members see key details of the upcoming project.

Akron Public Schools administrators are warning that federal funding cuts could cost the district $7.7 million, risking support for reading, math, professional development and enrichment programs like the Aim High Akron GEARUP grant.

They have appealed the decision and expect a ruling by September 30—Title one funding may drop 26% if the grant is lost.

The University of Akron received a $500,000 grant from the GAR Foundation to help pay for renovations to the historic Polsky Building, which will be renamed the Knight Center for Creative Engagement and will serve university students & downtown residents.

The funding brings the school closer to its $15.5 million goal to secure a matching grant from the Knight Foundation, with $2.7M still needed by the end of October.

Akron’s historic Firestone Plant #1 at 1200 Firestone Parkway faces a demolition threat if a developer is not found by November 21—without a redeveloped plan, the $5 million state grant may be lost—and preservation groups warn that the short timeline jeopardizes a key piece of our local history.

Akron's firefighters' union voted 347 to 5 on Sept.

23 to reject a fact finder's report that proposed a rise in health coverage costs, saying the increase would undercut recommended wage boosts — the union now moves negotiations to conciliation while direct talks with the city remain an option.

Poetry Night at House Three Thirty

7:30-10 p.m. — House Three Thirty — Specialty food and beverages available — Immerse yourself in a night of poetic expression and community creativity at this open mic event.

Akron Marathon, Half Marathon & Team Relay

7 a.m. — Akron Art Museum — Registration fees apply — Experience a scenic run through Akron's historic landmarks and stunning parks.

Mentallo & The Fixer Resurrection Tour 2025

7-10 p.m. — Musica — $15 online / $20 at the door — Experience an electrifying night with Mentallo & The Fixer alongside special guests Access to Concrete and HAREN & THORLA.

Mr. Pink – Free Live Music Band

7-10 p.m. — Old 97 — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant night of live music with tunes from Mr. Pink while hanging out with friends.

Ohio Plant Show

9 a.m.-3 p.m. — John S. Knight Center — Admission details not provided — Explore a diverse collection of carnivorous plants and orchids at this exciting two-day event.

CAK 5K on the Runway

8 AM – 12 PM — Akron-Canton Airport — Registration fees apply — Experience a unique 5K run on an actual runway with great finisher awards and post-race festivities.

CoComelon Live Show

6-7:30 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Family-friendly fun — Experience the interactive world of CoComelon with singing and dancing for all ages.

The Ultimate Pink Floyd Tribute Experience

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Goodyear Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Pink Floyd like never before in an unforgettable tribute performance.

Canal Corridor 100 Mile Endurance Run

October 11-12 — Missing Falls Brewery, Downtown Akron — Donations from profits — Challenge yourself in this scenic ultramarathon along the Ohio & Erie Canalway.

Brecksville Sunday Hike: Coffee & Snacks

9 AM - 12 PM — Harriet Keeler Memorial Picnic Area — Free entry — Start the hiking season with coffee, snacks, and a delightful outdoor adventure.