Good morning, Akron.

Summit County Humane Society announced that Randy Barnes (an Ohio native who grew up on a small farm) will serve as its new president and CEO starting June 8.

Previously, Barnes led Lake Humane Society in Mentor with innovative programs to support community animal welfare.

Huntsman Corp. will end its nitrile latex production at 240 W.

Emerling Ave. by March 31, cutting nearly one third of the facility's workforce plus it will continue producing other polymers and test its new MIRALON carbon nanotube materials.

The Eyes of Freedom memorial featuring 23 oil portraits honoring fallen soldiers will be on display from May 19 to 22 at Stark State College (room M100 of the Business and Entrepreneurial Center).

The event includes an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. on May 19 and a veterans resource fair on May 21.

The Akron school board approved an $11 million budget cut yesterday to prevent teacher layoffs, reassigning six deans as teachers and eliminating 17 positions from administrative costs + planning further adjustments to meet budget needs.

Local high school and college seniors can submit graduation photos to be featured in an upcoming Beacon Journal story.

Graduates may send images via the online form or email ([email protected]) with their name and school for publication.

Charly Murphy, Bob's Hamburg co-owner in Highland Square, shares a veggie burger recipe in the Local Flavor at Home (a monthly recipe series).

The burger, which features panko and portobello mushrooms, is served daily and once won first place at the National Hamburger festival.

The Akron City Series spring championships include a softball final held on Tuesday, May 12, a baseball final on Thursday, May 14 at a site to be determined, and a track meet at Ellet on Saturday, May 16 starting at 9 a.m.

Donovan Mitchell scored 39 points in the second half to tie an NBA playoff record and help the Cavaliers even the series 2-2 with the Pistons in Detroit on Tuesday, May 12.

Local voters can choose the standout high school athlete of the week from May 4–10 as the contest features one boy and one girl nominee; voting will close at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 14, with winners to be announced Friday on BeaconJournal.com.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Graveridden with Wasted Society and Dead Beat Horse

8-11 p.m. — Musica — $10 online / $12 at the door — Experience a night of live music with local rock bands.

Mosaic Lamp Workshop in Akron

10:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Cambria Hotel Akron - Canton Airport — All materials included — Create a stunning Turkish mosaic lamp while enjoying traditional tea and treats.

#inviteHER Golf Celebration at Firestone Country Club

2:30-8 p.m. — Firestone Country Club — Ticket includes golf or clinics and dinner — Celebrate women's golf with a fun afternoon of games and camaraderie.

R&B Sing-Along at House Three Thirty

7:30-11 p.m. — House Three Thirty — General admission with VIP upgrades available — Enjoy a lively R&B sing-along with DJ Mr. King and exclusive seating options.