Good morning, Akron.

Muszynski (CEO of the Cleveland-based Values-in-Action Foundation) announced a national challenge called Do 250 Acts of Kindness to coincide with America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, as local efforts boost community ties.

Akron Public Schools have promoted similar initiatives (BEKIND330 since 2022) to encourage simple acts of kindness across neighborhoods.

The renovated Reservoir Park in Akron’s Goodyear Heights at 1735 Hillside Terrace now has a modern community center updated on Oct.

8 with a new entrance, meeting room, kitchen, art room, game room and gathering space. The park also features outdoor amenities — a splash pad, pool, waterslide, zip line and ceramic kiln for art classes.

Lee Manes, the 79-year-old owner of Sam’s Jewelry Emporium at 468 E.

Exchange St., said he will close the store on Oct 31 due to declining health after nearly 80 years of family service. He expressed gratitude to loyal customers while recalling that the business began as a pawnshop in 1946—marking the end of a local legacy.

Mustard Seed Market on West Market Street in Akron is stocking THC drinks and gummies ahead of Gov. Mike DeWine’s 90-day ban on intoxicating hemp that begins Oct.

14 — the store is ensuring customers have options before the new rule takes effect.

Akron Art Museum will host an adults-only Halloween dance party on Oct.

31 from 7:30—11 p.m. featuring a Thriller flash mob, trick-or-treating, and a costume contest; a free practice session led by dance instructor Jen Garlando and DJ Rybar is set for Oct. 23 from 6:30—7:30 p.m.

Akron Public Schools shared updates about the new North High School during a meeting on Oct.

9 with about 15 community members in attendance. The planned 190,000-square-foot building will serve 1,100 students with a 750-seat auditorium and new athletic fields—designed by Hasenstab Architects and Moody Nolan—with an open house scheduled on Nov. 5 and an expected opening by the 2029-2030 school year.

On Oct 9, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources updated its fall foliage map showing that leaves peaked in northeast regions and neared peak in areas from Columbus to southeast while dry weather may cause quick changes statewide — locals are advised to check the map often as the colors could fade fast.

An editorial from the Akron Beacon Journal warns that conspiracy theorists are taking over trusted health agencies by pushing false claims about drugs and shots.

The piece urges readers to follow proven science and talk with doctors—experts say that safe care must be based on real facts.

More than 46,000 Ambiano pressure cookers sold at Aldi since 2016 are being recalled after 11 injury reports—including eight serious burns—showed the lid can mistakenly open before steam vents; consumers should stop using the cookers and return them for a full refund or contact the manufacturer.

Thirsty Dog Brewing Co.'s Blues and Brews is taking place today at Lock 3 (200 S.

Main St.) in downtown Akron from noon to 6 p.m. More than 40 Ohio breweries will serve beer and live music, with Jackie O set to perform from 1 to 2 p.m. and another act scheduled from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

The Highland and Walsh Jesuit girls golf teams qualified for the state tournament after finishing third and second at the district tournament on Oct 9 at Tanglewood Golf Course — they will compete at Firestone Country Club on Oct 12 and 13.

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.

Managing Staff Conflict Workshop

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Medina County University Center — Member: $375 / Nonmember: $425 — Enhance your conflict resolution skills in this comprehensive workshop hosted by the Medina County Sheriff's Office.

Akron Epilepsy Support Group

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Fairlawn Kiwanis Community Center — Free event — Connect with locals to discuss epilepsy and share management strategies.

Girl Scouts Adventure Kickoff

6-7 p.m. — Northwest Family Recreation — Free entry — Discover what Girl Scouts can offer girls in grades K-5 while enjoying fun activities and meeting new friends.

Akron Symphony Orchestra - The Firebird

7:30-9 p.m. — Edwin J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall — Enjoy free parking — Experience a captivating evening of cinematic and mythical orchestral music featuring the Firebird Suite.

James Anderson Built on Belief 7K and 1 Mile Walk

7:30-11 a.m. — The JADFA House — $25-$50 — Celebrate resilience and recovery with a community-focused 7K run and a fun 1-mile walk.

Dueling Pianos Fundraiser

6-9 p.m. — EJ Thomas Hall — $40.00 – $75.00 — Enjoy a lively piano showdown where the audience dictates the playlist for a night of fun and music.

Akron Speed Dating for Singles in Their 40s and 50s

7-9 p.m. — BARMACY Bar & Grill — Ticket required — Experience an exciting evening of speed dating with potential matches in a friendly atmosphere.

Ohio & Erie Canal Cleanups

1-4 p.m. — Summit Lake Park — Free entry — Help keep the Ohio & Erie Canal natural spaces healthy while enjoying time outdoors.

5th Annual Haunted Forest Marathon

8 AM - 2 PM — St. Helena Heritage Park — Registration fee applies — Enjoy a festive marathon weekend with a spooky twist for the whole family.