Latest news with #Akron
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Lakers' LeBron James overheard revealing when his wife wants him to retire
The post Lakers' LeBron James overheard revealing when his wife wants him to retire appeared first on ClutchPoints. On Sunday, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James confirmed that he will be back on the court next season when he picked up his player option for more than $52 million. More than likely, James will be back in the purple and gold next to Luka Doncic as the two chase a championship in their first full season together. Advertisement James is the oldest star in the NBA right now and will be turning 41 years old this December. Naturally, that leads to plenty of discussion as to when he will hang up his shoes and retire, and that speculation becomes especially strong every time that he is eliminated from the playoffs. There are surely many factors that go into the decision for the Akron, OH, native. The level that he is still playing at is certainly one of them as well as his drive to keep racking up the achievements. However, arguably none of them are bigger than his family, which may be having a massive influence on how he plays out the end of his career. Recently, James was even overheard saying that his wife, Savannah, wants him to retire sooner than many fans may think, via ESPN's Shams Charania. 'It remains to be seen whether James will reach season No. 24 or beyond,' Charania wrote. Advertisement 'James went out to dinner in New York this past week with his wife, Savannah, Miami Heat big man Kevin Love and his wife, Kate, and other confidants, and one of the dinner guests posted a snippet of the night to Instagram where James can be heard saying, '[Savannah] wants me to f—ing retire in the next year or so.'' James' play on the court certainly does not suggest that he needs to hang it up any time soon. Last year, in his 22nd season in the NBA, he was named an All-Star and made All-NBA Second Team at the end of the regular season with averages of 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game. If James can keep that level of production up coming into next season, it's easy to see a world where he, Doncic and the Lakers quickly become one of the top teams in the Western Conference and can contend for a championship. Advertisement Related: Lakers land forward on $12 million deal after losing Dorian Finney-Smith Related: Lakers rumors: DeAndre Ayton a 'strong possibility' to join Lakers per NBA Insider
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Valmark Financial Group Marks Sixth Consecutive Win as a Top Workplace in Northeast Ohio
AKRON, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jun 30, 2025-- Valmark Financial Group is thrilled to announce that and The Plain Dealer have named it a 2025 Top Workplace, marking its sixth consecutive year of recognition for its outstanding workplace culture. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: This milestone achievement not only reflects the company's enduring values but also reinforces its status as a consistent leader in creating a people-first, purpose-driven work environment. The Top Workplaces award is grounded in authentic employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey that evaluates elements such as professional growth, inclusion, leadership, and overall workplace satisfaction. 'We're very proud to be honored for the sixth straight year,' said Larry J. Rybka, Chairman & CEO of Valmark Financial Group. 'This award is a reflection of who we are and our team's dedication to excellence, collaboration, and meaningful work. Among our peer firms, Valmark stands out for how we cultivate new talent through our internship program. Over the last year, we extended full-time offers to 17 of our 30 interns. It's initiatives like these that make Valmark a great place to work and one where people choose to stay and grow their careers.' Valmark's people-first philosophy is deeply embedded in the organization, influencing everything from daily interactions to strategic decisions. At the company's core is a deep commitment to actively listening to employees and translating their feedback into meaningful action. Through quarterly surveys that invite anonymous employee feedback on key aspects of the workplace experience, such as communication, leadership, development opportunities, and overall culture, Valmark remains closely attuned to the evolving needs of its team. This ongoing dialogue helps foster an environment rooted in respect, growth, and empowerment, ensuring employees feel heard, valued, and supported. The company's Engage Team, a cross-functional group of employees, also plays a key role in fostering connection and culture by organizing wellness activities, volunteer opportunities, fun workplace events, and team-building opportunities for employees throughout the year. These intentional investments in culture have yielded meaningful results, including stronger employee engagement, higher employee retention, and, ultimately, exceptional service for Valmark's 110+ Member Firms. Valmark's latest survey of its Member Firms revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback, reinforcing the idea that a strong internal culture directly elevates the quality of service a firm delivers and overall customer satisfaction. 'Creating an environment where our people can thrive is the foundation for delivering extraordinary value to our Member Firms,' said Larry J. Rybka, Chairman & CEO. 'As Stephen Covey wisely said, 'Treat your employees exactly as you want them to treat your best customers.' That philosophy is part of our DNA.' Valmark's values-driven culture creates a ripple effect that extends throughout the organization and into the communities it serves. By prioritizing growth, collaboration, and respect, Valmark empowers its employees to do meaningful work and give back. This deliberate focus on people has become a powerful catalyst for long-term success, shaping not only how Valmark serves its Member Firms but also how the company benefits the greater good through initiatives like employee volunteer days and the Valmark Global Gift Fund. In championing a culture rooted in purpose and generosity, Valmark proves that business success and positive social impact can go hand in hand. 'Earning this recognition six years in a row is no accident—it's a direct result of the character, passion, and integrity our people bring every day,' said Caleb Callahan, President of Valmark Financial Group. 'Their unwavering commitment to our purpose and to each other is what sets Valmark apart. Together, we're carrying forward a legacy rooted in the Golden Rule—one that inspires our future and elevates everyone we serve.' To explore Valmark's profile on the Top Workplaces website, click here. About Valmark Financial Group, LLC Valmark Financial Group is a holding company of several subsidiaries, including Executive Insurance Agency, Inc., a national producer group; Valmark Securities, Inc., a broker-dealer and member of both FINRA and SIPC; Valmark Advisers, Inc., a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission registered investment adviser; and the Valmark Policy Management Company, LLC, which provides ongoing policy management and monitoring services for life insurance policyholders. With a proud history of working with independently owned financial services firms committed to high ethical standards in over 30 states throughout the United States, Valmark offers a wide range of insurance and investment solutions for high net-worth clients. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio with operations in St. Paul, Minnesota, Valmark, through its affiliated entities, has helped its member firms place over $70 billion of life insurance death benefits and manage insurance policies with a cumulative cash value of over $8 billion dollars. Valmark's affiliated RIA, Valmark Advisers, has an estimated $10 billion in assets under management and advisement, including approximately $1.2 billion in variable sub-account assets within its TOPS® funds. To learn more about Valmark Financial Group and its Life Settlements offering, visit or Securities offered through Valmark Securities, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory services offered through Valmark Advisers, Inc., a SEC Registered Investment Advisor. View source version on CONTACT: Jamie Summerville – VP, Communications Valmark Financial Group 130 Springside Drive Akron, OH 44333 P: 330.576.1234 x3609 E:[email protected] KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA OHIO INDUSTRY KEYWORD: FINANCE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ASSET MANAGEMENT INSURANCE HUMAN RESOURCES SOURCE: Valmark Financial Group Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 06/30/2025 09:00 AM/DISC: 06/30/2025 09:01 AM
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
LeBron James Facing Pressure At Home — Savannah Reportedly Wants Him To Retire Soon
LeBron James Facing Pressure At Home — Savannah Reportedly Wants Him To Retire Soon originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Even kings aren't immune to the pressures of home life, and for LeBron James, the greatest basketball player of his generation, that reality is beginning to show. Advertisement According to a report by ESPN's Shams Charania, James' wife, Savannah James, has privately expressed her desire for the Lakers superstar to consider stepping away from the game sooner rather than later. During a recent dinner in New York City with close friends, including Miami Heat forward Kevin Love and their spouses, one guest captured a candid moment on Instagram. In the background, LeBron can be heard saying, '[Savannah] wants me to f***ing retire in the next year or so.' It was a rare unfiltered glimpse into the off-court pressures the 40-year-old legend now faces. From a family standpoint, Savannah's request is completely understandable. She and LeBron have been together since their high school days in Akron, Ohio, a relationship spanning over two decades. Advertisement The couple has been married for 12 years and shares three children: Bronny, Bryce, and Zhuri. Bronny James is now officially in the NBA, and Bryce, meanwhile, is committed to Arizona and could join the league within the next year or two. For Savannah, the idea of her husband, who has given his entire adult life to basketball, stepping away to finally enjoy time with their family is more than reasonable. It's overdue. And yet, LeBron isn't done. At least not yet. Just days after that dinner, James officially opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season. He will now enter a record-breaking 23rd year in the NBA, surpassing Vince Carter for the most seasons played, and shows no signs of treating this as a farewell tour. Sources close to the James camp have told ESPN that LeBron is not approaching next season with any certainty that it will be his last. Advertisement For now, the legendary forward continues to balance two worlds: the relentless pursuit of greatness and the call to return home. James still plays at an elite level, averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game last season on 51.3% shooting. He remains one of the most efficient and impactful players in the league, even as his minutes are carefully managed. But the long grinds of road trips, constant scrutiny, and never-ending title expectations may wear more heavily now than ever before, not just on LeBron, but on the people closest to him. Savannah's gentle but firm nudge is likely rooted in concern. Her husband has nothing left to prove. He's a four-time champion, the NBA's all-time leading scorer, and the face of an era. Advertisement And now, with one son beside him on the court and another soon on the way, the idea of retiring while still at the top might be the most poetic end possible. But for now, the King continues. One more season. One more shot. And perhaps, just maybe, one last dance before answering the call of home. Related: Updated NBA Rings Leaderboard: LeBron James And Warriors Stars Remain Atop Active Players This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jun 29, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Yahoo
Swimmer's body recovered from lake at Portage Lakes State Park: ODNR
AKRON, Ohio (WJW) — Search teams have recovered the body of a swimmer who investigators said went missing at Portage Lakes State Park on Tuesday. Witnesses said the man was in the designated swimming area when he went underwater but did not resurface, according to an Ohio Department of Natural Resources spokesperson. According to the New Franklin Fire Department, around 6:45 p.m., divers found the man's body in 10 feet of water about 150 feet from the shore. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim was identified as Walter O'Neil Cox, 49, of Akron. ONDR said an autopsy will be performed. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as they try to come to grips with this tragicaccident,' the fire department said in a release. I-480 ramp to Tiedeman reopens after police incident The beach area remained closed during the search, according to a spokesperson. 2 firefighters injured after fire breaks out at Rocky River Brewing Company One person died following a water rescue last week at the park. That victim's vehicle was found submerged near a boat launch in New Franklin just after 6 a.m. on Thursday, June 19, according to officials. First responders tried to resuscitate that person, but they later died at a hospital. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Hours extended for Cleveland, Akron cooling centers
WJW) — With dangerously high heat continuing into the work week, Cleveland and Akron officials are keeping local cooling centers open longer. A Heat Advisory will continue through Tuesday evening in Northeast Ohio. Get the latest weather alerts here Cooling centers in Cleveland will stay open those days, from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.: Zelma George Neighborhood Resource & Recreation Center, 3155 Martin L. King Blvd. Collinwood Neighborhood Resource & Recreation Center, 16300 Lakeshore Blvd. Gunning Neighborhood Resource & Recreation Center, 16700 Puritas Ave. Kovacic Neighborhood Resource & Recreation Center, 6250 St. Clair Ave. Michael Zone Neighborhood Resource & Recreation Center, 6301 Lorain Ave. Frederick Douglass Neighborhood Resource & Recreation Center, 15401 Miles Ave. All playground and youth outdoor programs are suspended on Monday and Tuesday. All recreation centers will serve lunch to youths 18 and younger from noon to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Outdoor pools will be open from noon to 7:45 p.m. on Sunday. Indoor pools will be open from noon to 7:45 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday. Pool admission and other summer programming are free. Spray parks and basins will also be open whenever the temperature hits 80 degrees or higher — which is every day in the 8-Day Forecast: The city of Akron is also keeping the Summit Lake Community Center, 380 W. Crosier St., open as a cooling center from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Most of the city's other community centers will be closed on Sunday, but open for normal hours on Monday and Tuesday. All centers will return to normal operating hours on Wednesday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
