Akron's Iconic Contribution to Space History

Akron Weekly Digest: Your Insider's Guide to Urban Adventures

Stay in the Loop with the Latest Happenings in Akron

This Week's Highlights:

Upcoming Events:

8/6: Make sure to act out the saying “health is wealth” by heading down to The Akron library to participate in a tai chi and qigong class. Get a good workout in and interact with others starting Tuesday from 12:15-1:00pm.

8/6: The school year is right around the corner and with that means exciting sporting contest are about to begin. On Tuesday at 1 the Akron women's soccer team will be taking on Dayton at first energy stadium in an exhibition game. Enjoy your afternoon by watching some high level soccer in the city.

8/8: It seems like moments ago we were only in June and now we're already in the last month of summer. The summer days dwindling down sadly means it’s gonna start getting chilly soon so take advantage of the warm weather and catch an outdoor movie this Thursday at “ Lock 3 Backyard” . This weeks movie will be the iconic “Jurassic park” so your not gonna want to miss it starting at 8:45 pm.

8/5-8/11 Weather

Mon 05, PM Thunderstorms, 88°/70°

Tue 06, Scattered Thunderstorms, 80°/61°

Wed 07, Partly Cloudy, 77°/61°

Thu 08, Partly Cloudy, 82°/64°

Fri 09, Partly Cloudy, 82°/63°

Sat 10, Mostly Sunny, 80°/61°

Sun 11, Partly Cloudy, 75°/56°

Fact Of The Day: Akron's Iconic Contribution to Space History

Akron is credited with producing the first American spacesuit to orbit the Earth, marking a milestone in space exploration. This historic spacesuit was developed by the iconic B.F. Goodrich Company, known for tire and rubber manufacturing headquartered in Akron. The suit, known as the Mercury spacesuit, was worn by astronaut John Glenn during his iconic Friendship 7 mission on February 20, 1962. This mission made Glenn the first American to orbit the Earth, completing three orbits and solidifying the U.S.'s position in the Space Race. The successful deployment of this spacesuit was a major factor in the success of the Mercury program, making Akron a big puzzle piece in the pioneering of space exploration technology.

Story of the week: Akron Gears Up for a Night of Fun and Unity

The City of Akron invites families to a free event aimed at fostering positive relationships between the community and law enforcement. The 41st annual National Night Out will take place on Tuesday, August 6, featuring block party-style celebrations across the city.

Events will be held in various wards, including the Church of Our Savior in Ward 1 from 6-8 PM, Patterson Park Sports Complex in Ward 2 from 4:30-7:30 PM, and Summit Lake Community Center in Ward 3 from 5-7 PM. Each event will offer food, music, and activities for all ages. Public services like the Akron Fire Department will also participate, offering families the chance to sign up for smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and home evacuation plans.

Mayor Shammas Malik noted that National Night Out, " gives our residents an opportunity to gather together with neighbors, Akron Police and Fire, and city officials to build community, create dialogue, and have a fun evening. Building relationships between our residents and our public safety forces is so important to continue to create trust and ongoing dialogue in our city."

Landmark Of The Week: Hale Farm And Village

Hale Farm & Village is a living history museum located in Bath, Ohio, near Akron. The farm provides visitors with an experience of life in the 19th century. The farm was originally established by Jonathan Hale in 1810, and over the years, it has grown into a site with more than 30 historic structures.

Visitors can explore a variety of buildings, including the Hale family’s original farmhouse, a blacksmith shop, a church, and other period structures. These buildings are populated with actors who demonstrate traditional crafts and trades such as candle making, glassblowing, and weaving. The farm also features livestock and gardens, offering a glimpse into agricultural practices of the time.

Hale Farm & Village hosts numerous events throughout the year, including Civil War reenactments, harvest festivals, and holiday celebrations, making it a vibrant educational resource and a popular destination for families, school groups, and history enthusiasts. The site emphasizes hands-on learning and provides a rich, interactive experience that brings the past to life.

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