Good morning, Akron.

Today, as Akron celebrates its bicentennial, local history recalls Ohioans donating for the canal in 1825, a man jailed in 1875 for a crude remark at a train depot, athletes dressing in feminine roles for a 1925 musical, residents saving a historic building in 1975, and Dairy Mart planning to sell many stores in 2000—stories that capture the city’s evolving spirit. BeaconJournal will share these weekly retrospectives every Sunday during the bicentennial year.

Today the Akron Board of Education will vote on how to proceed with suspended Superintendent Michael Robinson after an investigation found he created a hostile work environment that made staff fear for their jobs—options include termination, a separation with a buyout, or accepting his resignation without a buyout.

Akron teacher Malia Tschantz, who teaches art at Miller South School for the Visual and Performing Arts, is a finalist in America's Favorite Teacher contest as her lively classroom energizes her 8th grade students.

She has mentored students for 18 years and the contest voting runs from April 25 to May 1, offering a $25,000 prize, a trip to Hawaii and a Reader’s Digest feature — she plans to use her win to start an arts scholarship.

Max Strus shined in Game 3 on April 26—he scored 18 points, rebounded nine times, and assisted five times as the Cavs took a 3-0 series lead over the Heat.

Coach Kenny Atkinson said Strus does the essential work on the court and remains a trusted starter in the playoff series.

NEOGOV Customer Training Event

10 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — Ellet Community Center — Free entry — Enhance your HR skills with training and networking opportunities while enjoying lunch.

Eternal Harmony Festival

10 AM – 12 PM — Akron-Summit County Public Library — Free entry — Celebrate AAPI Month with music, art, and crafts promoting peace and unity.

Guest Appearance Performance at CDF | Akron Concert Series

7-9 p.m. — Firestone Theatre — Check website for ticket prices — Experience the captivating 'House of Glass' performance choreographed by Angelina DiFranco by the Dancing Wheels Company.

Ballet Theatre of Ohio - The Little Mermaid

2:00 – 3:30 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Ticket purchase required — Experience an enchanting ballet adaptation of a beloved fairy tale.

BOOM! Company Live Performance

7 p.m. — John, James and Clara Knight Stage — Affordable tickets available — Experience the thrilling performance of BOOM! Company live in Akron.

Spring Running Series

6:45 p.m. — Oak Grove Picnic Area — $35+ — Experience a scenic 4-5 mile trail run each week while enjoying nature and competing for awards.

Josee McGee Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — The Auricle - Venue & Bar — Tickets required — Experience the musical talents of gifted singer Josee McGee in a lively setting.

BLUE RADIO and Super Culture Live

7 PM – 1 AM — The Rialto Theatre — Tickets available — Experience a night of energetic rock with Blue Radio and Super Culture and delve into their unique musical journeys.

Akron Symphony Orchestra - Verdi's Requiem

7:30-9 p.m. — EJ Thomas Hall — Experience a powerful musical journey with Verdi’s masterwork performed by the Akron Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.

Open Mother's Day at The Twisted Olive

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — The Twisted Olive — Reservations recommended — Celebrate Mother's Day with delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.