Good morning, Akron.

Dave Thomas, the flowerscape director for Keep Akron Beautiful, sorted a large order of plants on May 15 to prepare for keeping key downtown sites vibrant through spring and summer.

The nonprofit, founded in 1981, uses native species to attract pollinators and has transformed spaces like unused parking lots into wildflower areas—he has overseen multiple Dreamscape projects while working 54 to 75 hours each week during growing season.

Fire crews responded to a house fire on Annadale Avenue in Akron on Saturday morning and pulled a woman from the home—she remains hospitalized in critical condition as officials have not yet determined the cause.

A 26-year-old motorcycle rider died in an accident on I-277 near South Main Street on Friday just before 9:15 p.m. (the crash involved only one vehicle).

Akron Public School’s Buchtel CLC was struck by gunfire over the weekend when a bullet hit the building on May 19 at about 8:46 a.m.—police later found a firearm in a nearby backyard and reported no injuries.

Innes Community Learning Center was evacuated this morning after a bomb threat was found inside the building—police are investigating vandalism that occurred over the weekend and parents were asked to pick up students at Garfield High School.

As Akron celebrates its bicentennial, Beacon Journal readers share memories of local landmarks such as the Y-Bridge opening on Oct.

31, 1981, games in the West Akron Baseball League and festive downtown holiday displays. Their recollections highlight moments that shaped the city’s history—stories that show how Akron’s past has built a strong community.

At a recent city council meeting, tensions rose as council members rejected the police union’s independent report on a contract while community organizers demanded more accountability following use-of-force incidents—one case being the shooting death of Jazmir Tucker nearly six months ago. Council President Margo Sommerville said she hopes both sides will find common ground soon.

Blossom Music Center kicked off its summer concert season on May 19 with Breaking Benjamin and Staind, and nine locally owned restaurants within 15 minute drives offered diverse meals for concertgoers—each venue providing a unique food option—ensuring fans had a satisfying pre-show experience.

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.

The Quarry Neighborhood Community Garage Sale

8 AM – 4 PM — The Quarry Golf Club & Venue — Free entry — Explore local treasures and bargains at this community garage sale.

The Flame Group's 58th Anniversary Dinner

12-4 p.m. — Guy's Party Center — $25.00 — Celebrate with a grand dinner marking 58 years of the Flame Group's legacy.