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🗞️ Easter Weekend Treats

🗞️ Easter Weekend Treats

April 18, 2025

Good Morning, Akron!

Why is eggnog a Christmas drink… but Easter, the holiday literally themed around eggs, gets no signature beverage?

Seems like a missed branding opportunity. “Eggs-tra” confusing, if you ask us.

Let’s crack into this week’s news.

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The Digest

Zoo Announces Multi-Million Dollar Hospital for Furry (and Scaly) Patients 🦒

The Akron Zoo is breaking ground on a state-of-the-art animal hospital that would make any human jealous of the healthcare their exotic neighbors are about to receive. The $11.95 million facility will soon provide specialized medical care for over 2,000 animals, from tiny amphibians to massive carnivores. Located behind the Pride of Africa area, the nearly 12,000-square-foot building will include an intensive care unit, specialized surgery suite, and custom spaces designed for various species from hoofstock to large carnivores.

After outgrowing their current 30-year-old animal care center (we know the feeling), zoo officials are ensuring their residents receive top-notch treatment while simultaneously announcing their next ambitious project: an immersive year-round giraffe habitat as part of the Pride of Africa area. With $2 million in state funding already secured, these long-necked lovelies will soon have Akron's version of a luxury penthouse with a view.

U of A Trims Academic Branches to Balance Budget 🪓

The University of Akron is taking the academic equivalent of a buzzcut in its latest round of budget adjustments. As part of a broader $22 million budget improvement plan, the University is eliminating two departments entirely – Anthropology and Physics – while requiring faculty to teach four courses per year unless they secure external research funding.

The moves come amid enrollment declines that have strained finances, with the administration working to right-size operations for its current student population. Some voluntary separations have already occurred, with multiple faculty members opting to leave their positions, generating over $1 Million in savings. While the cuts have sparked debate about the university's priorities, administrators insist the changes are necessary to ensure long-term sustainability. Students looking to study the fundamental forces of the universe or ancient human cultures might need to shop for a new major or transfer to a university that still believes in gravity.

School Superintendent Sent to Principal's Office 😳

Akron Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Michael Robinson has been placed on paid administrative leave following allegations that would make even the toughest high school hall monitor cringe. A four-month independent investigation revealed "multiple, credible accounts of bullying, intimidation, and retaliation" by Robinson against district employees, substantiated by interviews with 16 current and former APS employees.

The investigation, conducted by Cleveland-based law firm Brennan Manna Diamond, found Robinson allegedly violated numerous policies, including those related to public records and harassment of students and coworkers. The school board has appointed Mary Outley as interim superintendent while they determine Robinson's future, with a final decision expected by April 28. The irony of a school leader allegedly breaking anti-bullying policies isn't lost on anyone who's ever survived middle school cafeteria politics.

What’s Happening

Here is our list of hand-picked events around the area:

Eggs, Sand, and Racing Shoes: Lakeside Spring Sprint 🐰

Who says Easter egg hunts are just for kids? The Run to the Beach 5K and One-Mile Easter Eggs Scramble invites participants of all ages to dash around Portage Lakes State Park this Saturday at 8:30 AM (5K) or 8:00 AM (1-Mile). This unique event combines fitness with festivity as runners sprint through a mostly flat course that begins in the parking lot and – here's the kicker – finishes right on the sandy beach!

The 1-Mile "scramble" features Easter eggs along the route that can be redeemed for prizes, while both 5K runners and competitive walkers receive medals worthy of showing off. The dedicated 5K Competitive Walk category (strict no running rules!) offers serious walkers their own division with top awards. Tech shirts, goodie bags, and post-race food sweeten the deal for participants. Whether you're competing for age group awards, joining the team challenge, or just want an excuse to traverse sand without looking weird, this event supporting the Portage Lakes Advisory Council delivers springtime fun with a competitive edge. Info Here

Art in Motion: UADC Spring Showcase 💃

The University of Akron Dance Company is leaping into spring with their annual showcase that proves college students can indeed do more than TikTok dances. Happening Tonight and Saturday at 7:00 PM at EJ Thomas Hall, this electric performance features a special appearance by the prestigious Joffrey Concert Group flying in from New York City exclusively for this engagement.

This year's showcase highlights works from both faculty choreographers and ambitious student creators, providing an intriguing glimpse into the future of dance. The performances blend technical precision with raw emotional expression that will leave you both impressed and slightly guilty about your own dance floor efforts. With multiple styles showcased throughout the evening, even those who think they "don't get dance" will find something that resonates. Whether you're a dance enthusiast or just appreciate watching people who can touch their toes without grimacing, this event offers a perfect cultural night out. Info Here

Comedy's Wild Child Storms Goodyear Theater 🎭

Marlon Wayans is bringing his signature brand of unfiltered comedy to Goodyear Theatre this Saturday at 8:00, and your abs should prepare for a serious workout. The "Wild Child Tour" lands at Goodyear Theater with Wayans' high-energy performance style that somehow transforms life's most uncomfortable moments into material that has audiences gasping for air between laughs.

Known for his roles in classics like "White Chicks" and "Scary Movie," Wayans brings that same fearless energy to his stand-up, tackling everything from family dynamics to current events with his unique perspective. The intimate theater setting creates an electric atmosphere where no audience member is safe from becoming part of the show. Fair warning: this isn't comedy for the easily offended or those who blush at adult language – Wayans delivers raw, unfiltered observations that cut straight through political correctness. A perfect night out for those who believe laughter truly is the best medicine, especially when it's slightly inappropriate. Info Here

Everlong Entertainment: Foo Fighters Tribute Rocks Downtown 🎸

For those who can't get enough Dave Grohl in their lives (and honestly, who can?), Back and Forth: The Foo Fighters Tribute Band is bringing all the energy of arena rock to Akron's intimate Knight Stage this Saturday at 7:30. This isn't just any cover band – these musicians have studied every riff, drum fill, and growly Grohl vocal to deliver an experience that'll have you forgetting you're not at an actual Foo Fighters concert.

The setlist spans the band's entire catalog, from early classics like "Everlong" and "My Hero" to recent hits, recreated with stunning accuracy and authentic passion. The Knight Stage's perfect acoustics and close quarters mean you'll feel every power chord in your chest and see every bead of sweat flying from the drummer's forehead – the way rock was meant to be experienced. Perfect for both die-hard Foo fans and those who just appreciate solid rock performed with heart, this show promises to be the best seated workout you'll get all weekend. Arrive early to grab a drink and stake out your spot – these tribute shows have been known to sell out faster than you can say "THE BEST THE BEST THE BEST OF YOU!" Info Here

Nostalgia Meets Retail Therapy: House Three Thirty's Throwback Market 🕰️

House Three Thirty is launching its first-ever Throwback Market this Saturday at 11:00 AM, transforming LeBron James' community hub into a paradise for collectors, nostalgia-seekers, and anyone who appreciates the charm of yesteryear. Located at 532 West Market Street in Akron, this six-hour retro extravaganza invites visitors to "shop, trade, and relive favorite pastimes" in a community-centered atmosphere.

The market takes place inside the impressive 60,000-square-foot former Tangier Restaurant & Cabaret, which the LeBron James Family Foundation has reimagined as a multi-purpose community space offering job training, dining, retail, and entertainment experiences. Vendors will showcase everything from vintage clothing and classic vinyl records to retro video games and collectible toys that defined generations. Between treasure hunting, visitors can refuel at the venue's food options, including Secret Pizza and The Sweet Shop. Whether you're searching for that one nostalgic item from your childhood or simply want to soak in the throwback vibes, this market offers a perfect blend of community connection and retail therapy. Info Here

Akron Weekend Movie Action 🎬️ 🎥

Nightlight Theatre

The Ballad Of Wallis Island
Eccentric lottery winner Charles lives alone on a remote island but dreams of hiring his favourite musician, Herb McGwyer, to play an exclusive, private gig. Unbeknownst to Herb, Charles has also hired Herb’s ex-bandmate and ex-girlfriend, Nell, with her new husband in tow, to perform the old favourites. As tempers flare and old tensions resurface, the stormy weather traps them all on the island and Charles desperately looks for a way to salvage his dream gig.
Rotten Tomatoes: 97%
Showtimes

Highland Theatre

A Minecraft Movie
"A Minecraft Movie" is a 2025 fantasy adventure comedy directed by Jared Hess, featuring Jason Momoa as Garrett "The Garbage Man" Garrison and Jack Black as Steve. The plot follows four misfits—Garrett, Henry (Sebastian Hansen), Natalie (Emma Myers), and Dawn (Danielle Brooks)—who are transported through a mysterious portal into the Overworld, a cubic realm thriving on imagination. To return home, they must master this blocky world and embark on a quest with the expert crafter Steve, confronting various challenges and adversaries along the way.
Rotten Tomatoes: 52%
Showtimes

Live Music Breakdown

Here is a summary of live music happening all around Akron this weekend:

Friday

Saturday

Weather

Today

77 🌡️ 62 | ☁️ | 5% 🌧️

Saturday

68 🌡️ 42 | 🌧️ | 92% 🌧️

Sunday

60 🌡️ 52 | 🌧️ | 30% 🌧️

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Talk to you next Friday!