Good morning, Akron.

Akron Area YMCA named Tiffany McGee as its new CEO — she will begin on June 1 and replaces Jill Kolesar, who retires after 35 years with the organization.

Akron police will hold a donation drive for youth soccer equipment on May 3 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the North Avenue Soccer Complex in Tallmadge (items needed include cleats, balls, shin guards, socks, gym bags and shorts to support local youth teams).

Akron native David Allan Coe, known for hits such as 'The Ride' (his signature anthem), died on April 29 in hospital at age 86.

His long career and collaborations with key country artists left a lasting mark on our musical culture.

On April 30, the Beacon Journal checked grocery staples at four Akron stores – Acme, Aldi, Giant Eagle and Walmart – and found that food prices rose 1.9% over the past year while monthly increases slowed; future reports will track changes to help locals budget.

Gas prices surged across Northeast Ohio on Friday, with many pumps nearing $5 per gallon, leaving the state ranked eighth nationally for high fuel costs.

The 2026 Senior Summit Expo will be held at St. George Fellowship Center (3204 Ridgewood Road) on Wednesday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering free breakfast and lunch along with health, wellness, educational, and entertainment resources for older adults, families, and community professionals.

The Cavaliers took a 3-2 lead on Friday, May 1, with a narrow win at Rocket Arena that set the stage for a tense Game 6 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.

Beacon Journal writers offered differing predictions on the outcome as the series moved closer to a decisive round.

A poll to choose Akron-area high school baseball player of the year is open, featuring nominees from Hoban, CVCA, Hudson, St. Vincent-St. Mary, and Twinsburg high schools.

Readers have until 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 5 to vote, with winners announced Wednesday, May 6.

Akron-area high school softball nominees from Coventry, Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy, Manchester, Springfield and Walsh Jesuit are vying for midseason player of the year, and readers can vote until 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 5 with winners to be announced on May 6 at beaconjournal.com.

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.

Red Tie Affair

6 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Akron Fairlawn — Sponsorships starting at $500 — An engaging gala with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and memorable auctions.

Michael Martin Murphey Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Kent Stage — Ticket prices vary — Experience the musical journey of Michael Martin Murphey as he blends Pop, Country, Western, and Bluegrass.