Good morning, Akron.

Paws and Prayers in Cuyahoga Falls offers a forever foster program that lets families care for older pets while the nonprofit covers medical costs (easing financial burdens).

The program provides stable homes for aging animals like Holly, ensuring they enjoy a safe, comfortable life.

Summit County Pro Bono Collaborative is set to offer free legal clinics to help Akron residents with civil issues such as custody and evictions at the Courthouse Annex (209 S.

High St) on the first Friday from 9-11 a.m.; the first session is scheduled May 1.

Luigi's, a longtime Akron eatery, now accepts credit cards for the first time in 77 years; manager Jim Corl says the change meets growing customer demand + modernizes payment methods.

Akron Public Schools approved a resolution on Wednesday to cut $11M next school year by laying off 10 paraprofessionals, eliminating 6 dean positions, and cutting one art therapist role to help address a forecasted $37M gap.

The proposal now moves to the Rules Committee for review on May 4.

Residents met Tuesday at the Akron-Summit County Public Library for an update on the $130 million Gorge Dam Project, which will dredge contaminated sediment from the Cuyahoga River through 2027 and remove the dam in 2028 to restore free flow from Kent to Lake Erie.

The endangered lakeside daisy is in bloom at the Lakeside Daisy State Nature Preserve (309 Alexander Pike, Marblehead) where visitors can join an open house from 2 to 5 p.m. and a guided hike at 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 2.

This Financial Literacy Month, Ace Epps, Chase Community Manager in Akron, shares four key steps to boost financial health—earning, protecting, spending, and saving.

He advises residents to set clear goals, create a budget, and automate savings to build long-term security.

Chansey Willis Jr., who played for Minnesota & Western Michigan and led the MAC in scoring and assists, will transfer to Kent State for the 2026-27 season.

Kent State head coach Rob Senderoff said he is excited to add his dynamic play to the team this summer.

After leading the girls basketball team to a state semifinal run at Copley, coach Julie Solis stepped down (citing health issues) while board approval will soon confirm longtime teacher Mary Stockdale Miller as the new coach.

Former No. 1 pick Travis Bazzana made his MLB debut on April 28 against the Rays while striking out at his first at-bat for the Guardians.

He was promoted in place of Juan Brito and had posted a .287 average (in 24 Triple-A games with the Columbus Clippers) before joining the majors.

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.

Nexstar National Talent Competition

N/A — May 8-10 — Akron Civic Theatre — Registration fees apply — Celebrate young talent at this premier competition for performers of all levels.

Dirty Lookz Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Old 97 — Free entry — Get ready to party hard with Dirty Lookz live for killer vibes and great tunes.

Pink Calla Lily Painting Event for Moms

12-2 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $39-$44 per person — Celebrate Mother's Day by creating a beautiful calla lily painting in a family-friendly environment.

Akron Speed Dating for Singles 40s/50s

7-9 p.m. — P.F. Chang's — Check website for ticket costs — Engage in pre-dates with multiple singles looking for connections in a relaxed atmosphere.

Evening of French Wine & Culinary Pairings

6-8 p.m. — 159 Events on Main — Free entry — Savor exquisite French wines paired with delicious culinary creations in a relaxed atmosphere.