Good morning, Akron.

Downtown Akron Partnership’s Summer Downtown series will run from May 20 through Sept.

6 and offer free wellness classes, themed roller skating sessions at Cascade Plaza, lunchtime programs at Lock 3’s balcony, and a cornhole league starting May 28. Participants can register to join free events—led by certified instructors and featuring community DJ nights—designed to bring neighbors together.

May is Older Americans Month and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program at Direction Home Akron/Canton Agency on Aging & Disabilities advocates for older adults by offering free guidance and assistance with care in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in-home settings.

The program resolved over 1,800 resident complaints last year to help ensure safe and respectful care.

Summit County public pools and splash pads will open over the next few weeks as temperatures climb, with several sites—like Akron’s Perkins Woods Pool on June 9 and Cuyahoga Falls facilities starting May 24—setting scheduled dates and hours.

Some venues require registration or season passes as they prepare for summer use.

Two men involved in pharmacy break-ins near Akron were sentenced to four to six years in prison after they stole narcotics and a pill-counting machine during a series of 2023 crimes in Bath, Twinsburg, and Fairlawn — the prosecutor said the thefts posed a public safety risk.

Mary Davidson was sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty to burglary and theft from a person in a protected class for breaking into an 86-year-old woman's Barberton home late last year — police said the victim's son called when he saw a suspicious figure on his security cameras.

Hope & Healing Survivor Resource Center in Summit and Medina counties reported that crisis hotline calls doubled in early 2025 from 621 to 1,286, with emergency shelter stays rising as families faced increased financial stress.

Federal grants that make up 75% of the center’s budget now face new restrictions—raising fears that tighter funds could reduce vital domestic violence services and add to Ohio’s estimated $1.2 billion annual cost of intimate partner violence.

Jane Bond said Makeshift Theater is working on making Coach House its new home in West Akron.

The group will finish setup soon + plan to host community events once the space is ready.

Two Ohio Lottery players in Akron won large jackpots recently - one won $150,000 on a scratch-off ticket at the Short Stop on Massillon Road and received about $108,000 after taxes, while another won $50,000 in the Pick 5 game at Delia Market on May 9 and got roughly $36,000 after taxes.

Company Live in Akron

2-6 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the acclaimed performance of Company live at one of Akron's historic venues.

6th Annual Foundation 59 Charity Golf Tournament

9 a.m. — Portage Country Club — $200 per player, $800 per team — Swing for a cause at this charity golf tournament supporting Foundation 59.

Angie Haze Annual Time Machine Show

7:00 – 10:30 PM — The Rialto Theatre — Ticketed event — A heartfelt tribute to beloved pets featuring emotional music and artistry from Angie Haze and guests.

Inaugural Creative Exchange Summit

8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. — Bounce Innovation Hub — Light breakfast and full lunch included — A one-day summit for artists to enhance their careers and creative practices through workshops and insights.

A Band Named Ashes and Friends

6-11 p.m. — The Rialto Theatre — Cost info not provided — Enjoy the melodic tunes of local progressive folk bands from Akron.

On-Site Tour at Cardinal Retirement Village

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Cardinal Retirement Village — Free entry — Explore a top-rated senior living community known for excellent meals and friendly staff.

Memorial Day Community Celebration

7 a.m. - 3 p.m. — Veterans Memorial Park — Free admission — Celebrate Memorial Day with a pancake breakfast, parade, ceremony, car show, and picnic for the whole family.

40th Ohio Sr. Open Golf Tournament

Tee off on May 28-29 — Firestone Country Club — Registration required — Compete in this exciting senior golf championship at a premier venue.

Sunset Bike Ride

7-9 p.m. — Ohio to Erie Trail, Big Bend Trailhead — Bring your own gear — Enjoy a casual evening bike ride along scenic trails with friends.

Akron Speed Dating for Singles in Their 30s and 40s

7-9 p.m. — BARMACY Bar & Grill — Ticket required — Meet local singles in a fun and organized speed dating event.