Akron Group Fights for Trans Rights, Seeks City Protection
As Ohio Republicans push anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, Akron activists ask mayor to issue executive order deprioritizing enforcement.
Judge Keeps Jury Question Secret in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial
Bronny James and LeBron Shine as Lakers Defeat Pacers
Lifestyle
Esther Lin Wins 97th Annual Akron Spelling Bee
Revere Middle School student takes home top prize at regional competition

Downtown Akron Sakura Festival Returns Next Month
The free annual event celebrates the arrival of spring and Japanese culture.
Akron Zoo Expands Sensory Accessibility Program
New guest comfort station and Sensory Explorers program launched to enhance visitor experience.
Weather
FirstEnergy Restoring Power After Windstorm
Utility company working around the clock to repair damage across multiple states

FirstEnergy Prepares for Severe Winds, Offers Safety Tips
Utility company activates incident command to coordinate restoration efforts as strong gusts expected across service area.
FirstEnergy Crews Preparing for Strong Winds on Friday
Utility company offers customers tips to prepare and stay safe
Crime
Man Convicted of Raping Teens at Ohio Strip Club
Javid Ruiz found guilty after girls were told they would be "safe" at Dreamer's Cabaret

Jury deliberating in trial for ex-FirstEnergy executives
Former CEO Chuck Jones and ex-senior vice president Michael Dowling face charges of corruption, bribery, conspiracy and aggravated theft.
Jury Deliberating in Corruption Trial of Ex-FirstEnergy Executives
Former CEO Chuck Jones and ex-senior VP Michael Dowling accused of $4.3 million bribery scheme
Politics
Bizarre Events Grip Ohio, From Bigfoot to Meteors
Portage County Bigfoot sightings, a meteor strike, and a controversial fetal death registry bill stir up the Buckeye State.

Randazzo's FirstEnergy Payments Scrutinized at Trial
Testimony raises questions about former Ohio utility regulator's handling of funds from energy company.
FirstEnergy trial witness says Randazzo dodged payment disclosures
Top Ohio ethics official says former utility regulator failed to report potential conflicts of interest
Entertainment
Iconic '867-5309' Song Number Now Connects to Cancer Support Helpline
The hit 1981 song by Tommy Tutone has been adopted by Cancer Support Community to provide free, confidential support to those affected by cancer.

Ballet Excel Ohio to present 'Aladdin' at Akron theater
The pre-professional dance company will bring the classic tale to life with energetic choreography and captivating music.
Alex Honnold Shares How He Handles Nature's Call During Climbs
The professional climber gets candid about his bathroom habits while scaling cliffs and skyscrapers.