Good morning, Akron.

Community events include a leadership forum at Kent State University Hotel on April 15 with reservations due April 14, a whiskey tasting at Akron Civic Theatre on April 17 offering four and eight pours, and a Ramp Up Peninsula market on April 25 featuring local ramps (details vary).

The Jumper Ring stables in Lake Township partners with New Vocations to retrain retired racehorses for family companionship.

The program, active since 1992, now offers 150 available thoroughbreds for adoption (inquiries accepted at the stables).

Yesterday, columnist Holly Christensen led friend James on a tour of Akron landmarks including the Akron Summit County Library, Akron Art Museum and the University of Akron campus; the visit ended at Hop House on High Street and reminded her why the city has a rich cultural design.

Retired cardiologist Terry Gordon (formerly AHA National Physician of the Year) released his debut novel, My Love Will See You Through, which explores death as a transition to another life.

The 244‑page softcover is priced at $14.99 and available online.

Downtown Akron’s plaza outside the federal building shows two historic sculptures that continue to blend into the everyday city scene.

The 22-foot aluminum figures installed by William King in 1978 and granite pieces by Robert Morris a year later quietly invite local onlookers to connect with the city’s art history.

Many Amish in Ohio now work off the farm as small businesses and trades replace traditional farming.

Local experts note that examples from Troyer's Rope Company (which supplies major retailers) and Chupp's Country Cupboard show a shift in work traditions amidst a growing Amish population.

Families with young children are invited to join the Akron Art Museum event on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of Week of the Young Child—experience hands-on art stations, building play, and a live performance at 12:30 p.m.

Akron students at Buchtel Community Learning Center train for salon careers with hands-on practice using mannequins — the program offers up to 1,768 practicum hours to prepare them for certification and an annual hair show on April 25.

The Cavaliers will face the Toronto Raptors in the first round of the NBA playoffs on April 18 at 1:00 p.m. in Cleveland; game times for later rounds will be set as needed.

Nae’Qwan Tomlin scored a career-high 26 points as the Cavaliers led wire-to-wire to beat the Wizards 130-117 on Sunday.

The team now prepares to face Toronto in the first playoff round after a strong first-quarter showing.

Winter Concert: Little Jazz Heritage Orchestra

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Happy Days Lodge — Tickets: $20 for members, $25 general — Experience an evening of vibrant big band jazz with the Little Jazz Heritage Orchestra.

Sharel Cassity Live

7:30-9:30 p.m. — E.J. Thomas Hall — Tickets from $42 — Experience the unforgettable performance of Sharel Cassity in Akron, OH.

Revisiting Creedence Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — E.J. Thomas Hall — Tickets from $64 — Relive the legendary tunes of Creedence Clearwater Revival in an unforgettable live performance.

Taste of Coventry

6-9 p.m. — Gather at the Lakes Event Venue — Proceeds benefit Coventry Schools Foundation — Sample local cuisine while enjoying raffles and silent auctions.

Stomp Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — E.J. Thomas Hall — Tickets starting at $54 — Experience an unforgettable night of rhythm and energy with Stomp in Akron.

An Evening with Derek Hough

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Canton Palace Theatre — $0.00 - $75.00 USD — Experience the inspiring journey of three-time Emmy Award winner Derek Hough and his life lessons through dance.

Curtain Up FUNraiser 50th Anniversary

6-2:30 p.m. — North Canton Playhouse — $26.13 — Enjoy a weekend of variety shows, games, and food while supporting a local cause.

3rd Annual CHESS FOR CURE Open

6 AM - 6 AM — The East End — Registration required — Engage in competitive chess while supporting a noble cause in Akron.

PBA Tournament of Champions

4-7 p.m. — AMF Riviera Lanes — Spectator passes available — Witness world-class bowlers compete for the prestigious PBA title at this iconic venue.

Baja Thunder Live Concert

7-11 p.m. — Musica — $10 online, $12 at the door — Catch live performances by Baja Thunder, Betzler, and Missy for an exciting night of music.