Thursday, May 7th, 2026
Good morning, Akron. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 7th of May.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Target is set to renovate nine stores in Ohio by late summer, including three in Greater Akron that will get expanded grocery sections and improved pick-up areas. The upgrades are part of a $5 billion investment to boost in-store shopping and online experience. Akron Beacon Journal
- ➤ Vendors at Northside Marketplace are still waiting for full payments as Akron Honey’s co-owner Brent Wesley removed products on May 3 to prevent further losses. Marketplace director Justin Lepley said he is working with vendors (and city officials) to resolve the issue at the 10,000 sqft micro market on Furnace St. Akron Beacon Journal
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Chevron CEO Mike Wirth warned earlier this week that global oil supply disruptions may lead to higher gas prices & possible shortages, with Ohio drivers paying about $4.81 per gallon as experts expect costs to remain elevated until next year. Akron Beacon Journal
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Local middle schoolers have created a youth-led documentary on gun violence that will premiere today at Akron Urban League. The film, made by Akron Kids Against Gun Violence from Miller South School and Litchfield Middle School + supported by TomTod Ideas, shows local students calling for change. News 5 Cleveland
- ➤ Akron families used the EdChoice Scholarship as the state allocated $2.4 billion for vouchers in 2026-27 while cutting public school funding by $2.75 billion. Families can apply from Feb. 1 to June 30 to attend one of 32 Summit County private schools accepting vouchers. Signal Akron
- ➤ After voters failed to approve a $5.6 million levy on Tuesday, Tallmadge City Schools announced planned cuts that include reductions in staffing + bus service and elective courses to save $2 million for the next school year. Superintendent Steve Wood said the steps are needed to meet state requirements. WKYC
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Renovations have begun across the Akron-Summit County Public Library system under a $160 million voter-approved plan to modernize 19 branches. The Tallmadge branch closed on March 16, the Ellet branch will close on May 9, and Nordonia Hills on Aug. 1 (services will continue via bookmobiles). Signal Akron
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ A recent study (reporting a 77% increase since 2017) shows more parents are refusing the vitamin K shot for newborns, which is key to preventing serious bleeding. Akron Children’s advises expecting parents to consult their provider for safe treatment. Akron Beacon Journal
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ OHSAA’s 2026 high school football season is set for fall in Greater Akron (with scheduled matchups spanning Weeks 1 to 10 for local teams), and some dates or times may change as game day approaches. Akron Beacon Journal
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Susie Everiss Live at Picklebacks
7-11 p.m. — Pickleback's Medina — Cost info unavailable — Experience an amazing night of music with Susie Everiss and sound engineer Nigel Pinnell.
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Memorial Day Celebration
7 a.m.-3 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Park — Free entry — Enjoy a pancake breakfast, a parade, a ceremony, and a car show while honoring Memorial Day.
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DJ Dracula Returns
7-11 p.m. — Musica — Free entry — Enjoy classic alternative, new wave, and punk vinyl spun by DJ Dracula for a fun night out.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.
~ Carl Jung
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