Good morning, Akron.

A Fairlawn firm is redesigning animal shelters in Northeast Ohio to lower animal stress and boost adoptions by improving lighting, ventilation, and kennel layout at a new Medina County Dog Shelter.

Lockview in downtown Akron started a GoFundMe page as rising costs and overdue taxes threaten its liquor license, the owner said.

The longtime restaurant, known for its grilled cheese sandwiches and craft beer, remains a local staple near Credit Union Park.

Luigi's, a longtime favorite on North Main Street, now accepts credit cards+ ending its decades-long cash-only tradition and easing payments for regular diners.

The change comes as customers seek a smoother experience at the iconic restaurant.

Pink Petals Florist in Wallhaven will move to 2003 W.

Market St., Suite 100 by April 30 + Klutch Cannabis will open its dispensary at the former location. The shop plans to serve customers with fresh arrangements for Mother’s Day.

Akron’s new Legacy Building Project, a cultural center and museum in Sherbondy Hill, will host educational classes in investment and financial literacy this summer in a leased space connected to Mt. Olive Baptist Church (a proof-of-concept for a larger complex).

The project aims to restore identity and spur economic empowerment.

Local education leaders met at Firestone Community Learning Center on Tuesday, April 21 to warn that expanding school voucher use is draining funds from public schools as officials face upcoming cuts to cover rising costs (panelists cited fair school funding concerns).

Officials reported sightings of bobcats in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and nearby metroparks on April 21; park officials urged visitors to refrain from sharing location details on social media to protect the animals.

Kody Green, a social media influencer known for his mental health advocacy, will speak at the NAMI Summit County luncheon on May 7 at the Doubletree by Hilton Akron Fairlawn.

Meet and greet begins at 10 a.m., and tickets are available on NAMI’s website until May 1.

Akron Children’s Hospital announced a $50 million gift from philanthropist Tom Golisano on Monday, prompting the Akron campus to be renamed the Akron Children’s Golisano Campus.

The funds will boost clinical services, expand specialty care, and support research in underserved areas across Northeast and Southeast Ohio.

Akron-area high schools finished the week of April 20-26 with notable achievements in tennis, baseball, and other sports; Revere swept Copley on the courts, STVM rallied to beat Walsh Jesuit in baseball, and Norton secured a win over Field with strong pitching + timely hits.

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.

Soar Dance Competition

All day — Firestone Community Learning Center — Registration fees apply — Showcase your dancing skills and celebrate the art of dance in Akron.

Canton Comedy Night with Bill Boronkay

8-9:30 p.m. — Canton Comedy Boom — $16.50 online / $20 at door — Experience an evening of laughter with stand-up performances by Bill Boronkay and Nick Dlouhy.

Awakening Events — Christian Music Concerts

7-11 p.m. — EJ Thomas Hall — Tickets available — Experience uplifting performances at this exciting Christian music event.

SmokeFace Jam Session

9 p.m. — Musica — Free entry for performers — Bring your instrument and join in on a lively jam session atmosphere!

Daisypusher and Friends Live at Musica

8 PM — Musica — $10 online / $12 at the door — Enjoy an evening of live music with Daisypusher and I'd Like To Go Home Now featuring Bailey Jade.