Good morning, Akron.

Akron-area municipal pools and splash pads have opened ahead of the summer season.

Akron splash pads run daily from June 1 until Sept. 30 — and pools at Perkins Woods and Reservoir Park offer free open swim membership hours after their June 8 opening, while other locations began welcoming season pass holders earlier.

Itzhak Perlman returns to Blossom Music Center for the first time in over 30 years.

The renowned violinist will conduct and perform an all-Beethoven concert with the Cleveland Orchestra on Thursday, July 9 (7 p.m.), reviving a cherished local tradition.

Akron Public Schools is discussing closing more schools amid a drop in enrollment from 45,000 to 19,000 and ongoing budget challenges.

Former planning director Jason Segedy warned the city must repurpose closed facilities responsibly (as with the Perkins Middle School redevelopment) to avoid disrepair and neighborhood blight.

City officials and river partners announced Tuesday a new safety tool called the Cuyahoga River Conditions Tool (CUYAC) to give paddlers near-real-time updates on weather and water conditions along the river, using a GIS map-based system to indicate risk via color codes.

Ohio has relaxed state fireworks rules, but Akron and other local communities still ban private displays so residents must check local guidelines before celebrating.

Meanwhile, Boom Boss Fireworks opened a new store on Canton Road+offering pyrotechnic supplies.

A water main break near I Promise School on West Market Street was repaired Tuesday, June 30, but the road remained narrowed to two lanes for further repairs (affecting local traffic).

City officials said crews would inspect additional damage.

Ohio is under a heat advisory with temps expected to feel 100+, urging pet owners to keep cats and dogs cool.

Experts from the Humane Society, ASPCA and American Red Cross advise never leaving pets in parked cars, offering shade and water and limiting exercise to avoid heat stroke.

Akron native LeBron James informed the Lakers he will play elsewhere next season, leaving open free-agent speculation about a return to the Cavaliers or a move to the Warriors.

The 41-year-old will begin his record 24th NBA season later this year.

Preschool Field Day

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Northwest Akron Branch Library — Free entry — Enjoy outdoor lawn games and water activities at this family-friendly event.

R&B Sing-Along Night at House Three Thirty

7:30-11 p.m. — House Three Thirty — General Admission — Enjoy a lively R&B sing-along led by DJ Mr. King with food and drink options available.

Star Spangled Bangerz 3

9 p.m.-3 a.m. — The Vortex — Refunds available up to 7 days before — Akron's annual 4th of July bash featuring M8TRX and more!

Parade The Musical

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Weathervane Playhouse — Tickets from $64 — Experience the unforgettable live musical Parade in Akron.

Space Exploration Camp

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Akron Fossils & Science Center — Fees apply — Discover the exciting history of the space race through interactive activities and learning.

The James Hunter Six Live in Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Kent Stage — Tickets available — Experience the soulful rhythms of James Hunter and his six-piece band as they perform songs from their new album.

Dave Banks Big Band Performs Bond Themes

8-11 p.m. — BLU Jazz+ — $— Experience the exciting music of '007' with the 17-piece Dave Banks Big Band at BluJazz.

The Desert Song

3:00 – 5:30 PM — Firestone Theatre — Check event page for ticket prices — Experience a musical masterpiece for the first time in Akron in 75 years.

Art in Motion

2-3 p.m. — Northwest Akron Branch Library — Registration required — Enjoy a creative afternoon of exploration through various art techniques for children.

Derek Hough Performance

8 p.m. — Akron Civic Theatre — Ticket options available — Enjoy an evening with acclaimed performer Derek Hough.