🔥 Flames and fame

Good morning, Summit County. A dramatic night unfolded on West Wilbeth Road as flames engulfed a vacant commercial building, sending Akron firefighters into an overnight battle against collapsing walls and persistent hotspots. The structure fire, which began Wednesday around 10:45 p.m., required multiple crews working through dawn to fully extinguish—thankfully without injuries despite the partial collapse that transformed the city's skyline.

Beyond breaking news, our community experiences both triumph and tragedy this week. The University of Akron has claimed global bragging rights as the world's #1 institution for polymer science and plastics engineering, outranking even Harvard and MIT with innovations that touch industries worldwide. Meanwhile, a local courtroom witnessed emotional scenes as Denzel Ayers received his sentence in the shooting death of Jalisa Buchanan, whose six children and grieving family members delivered powerful impact statements before uniting in prayer.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Akron

63°

91°

Cuyahoga Falls

63°

91°

Stow

59°

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Barberton

60°

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Green

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89°

Hudson

60°

88°

Tallmadge

60°

88°

Macedonia

60°

88°

Twinsburg

60°

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Norton

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89°

Munroe Falls

59°

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Fairlawn

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🔥 Vacant Akron building erupts in flames, partially collapses overnight. Multiple crews from the Akron Fire Department battled the commercial structure fire that was reported around 10:45 p.m. Wednesday in the 500 block of W. Wilbeth Road. Firefighters worked through the night and into early morning hours to extinguish remaining hot spots after finding the building fully engulfed upon arrival. Despite part of the structure collapsing during the blaze, no injuries were reported. The cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation.

⚖️ Akron man sentenced for shooting death of mother of six. Denzel Ayers, 32, received his sentence from Judge Mary Margaret Rowlands on July 3 after pleading guilty to reckless homicide in May. The case involved the tragic death of 29-year-old Jalisa Buchanan, whose six children now face life without their mother. During the emotional hearing, multiple family members including Buchanan's 14-year-old daughter, grandmother, aunt, and mother delivered impact statements before the court. Following the sentencing, Buchanan's family and friends stood together in prayer.

🏆 Akron University crowned world's best for polymer science and plastics engineering. The Ohio institution topped 1,015 global programs according to EduRank.org, maintaining its number one position from 2022. Prestigious institutions like MIT, Harvard, and the University of Tokyo rounded out the top ten. The university's polymer program, which began in 1939, boasts one of America's largest concentrations of polymer expertise with faculty members holding over 300 patents. Their innovations have been commercialized worldwide in various applications including coatings and biomedical fields.

Cozy Barberton gem power ready: Priced at $359,900, this beautiful Barberton home offers three bedrooms, spacious living areas, modern kitchen with included appliances, a Trex deck overlooking a fenced yard, and extras like a Generac generator.

Remodeled ranch with custom kitchen: Listed at $375,000, this 1967 custom-built ranch offers a remodeled kitchen with cherry cabinets, main-floor laundry, new carpet, and a partially finished basement with a bar and workshop area.

Panoramic views first-floor primary: Listed at $319,900, this stand-alone unit in the Arboretum at Greenwood Village boasts a first-floor primary suite, a two-story great room, and panoramic views, all in a community with pools, tennis courts and biking trails.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎵 Jul. 4 - Umojah Nation Festival: Groove to the reggae rhythms of Umojah Nation at Soul Of The City Festival this Independence Day! Join the celebration at Lock 3 Park in downtown Akron for a vibrant musical experience on July 4.

⚾ Jul. 4 - RubberDucks vs. Sea Wolves: Celebrate Independence Day with America's favorite pastime as the Akron RubberDucks take on the Erie Sea Wolves at Canal Park! Cheer on the home team and enjoy holiday baseball excitement downtown.

🚀 Jul. 4 - Akronauts at Lock 3: Blast off with the Akronauts at Lock 3 Park this Independence Day! Join the excitement on July 4th at 3:00 PM for a stellar celebration in downtown Akron.

🎉 Jul. 5 - Akron Bicentennial Parade: Celebrate Akron's 200th birthday with a festive downtown parade at Lock 3 Park on July 5! Join the community as colorful floats and performers wind through South Main Street in this historic celebration.

🍽️ Jul. 5 - Sample the City: Tantalize your taste buds at Sample the City on July 5, 2025 at Lock 3 Park! Embark on a flavorful journey through Akron's best local cuisine in this delicious downtown celebration.

🎨 Jul. 6 - Boston Mills Artfest: Discover the artistic pulse of summer at Boston Mills Artfest! Browse works from 300 talented artists while enjoying craft beer and wine on the final day, July 6, at 7100 Riverview Rd, Peninsula.

💰 Financial Friday

Consider creating an emergency fund that covers three to six months' worth of living expenses; this safety net can help you navigate unexpected financial challenges without derailing your overall financial plan.

🙏 In Remembrance

Marylee Beichler

Marylee Beichler (1945-2025) passed away peacefully on June 26 after a long illness, leaving behind her husband Colin and four children. She was a devoted family woman who cherished her seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, and found joy in her dogs. Her professional career was spent in banking, while her service extended to Brimfield Methodist Church and youth leadership roles with Camp Fire Girls and Cub Scouts. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on July 6, 2025, at Brimfield Methodist Church, with the family requesting donations to the Portage Animal Protective League in lieu of flowers.

Roy M. Avery

Roy M. Avery, 68, of Akron, Ohio, passed away on June 29, 2025, leaving behind his wife Diane, five children, and thirteen grandchildren. He worked for many years in the Water Pollution Control division for the City of Akron and was known for his strong work ethic. Roy was a devoted fan of Ohio sports teams and an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. Private services will be held for the family, who invites visitors to share memories in the online guest book.

Betty J. Keane

Betty Jeanette Keane, known as "Toty" or "Granny," passed away at age 93 on June 19, 2025, in Hudson, Ohio, surrounded by family. Born in 1931 in Indiana as one of ten siblings, she was a 1950 Euclid High School graduate who dedicated her life to her family, including three children, seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Betty was known for her warm spirit, quick wit, and distinctive expressions that became known as "Granny Lore" among her family members. An avid garage sale enthusiast who loved games like tennis and bridge, Betty's celebration of life will be held on July 11, 2025, at LevelOne Event Center in Hudson.

Eleanor Mae Albert

Eleanor Albert, 89, of Akron, passed away on June 27, 2025, after battling dementia. She was a JCPenney employee for 29 years and enjoyed spending time with friends and family, particularly cherishing her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Eleanor is survived by her three children, six grandchildren, and five great-grandsons, while being preceded in death by her parents, brother, and husband Wendell. She will be laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery on July 7.

William Potts

William Potts, born September 6, 1950, passed away after retiring from Louisiana Pacific where he worked for over thirty years. He was preceded in death by his parents William and Eileen, his wife Susan, and his brothers John and Leo. William is survived by his three children, two grandchildren, and his sister Carrie. A graveside service will be held on July 8, 2025, at Greenlawn Cemetery in Akron, Ohio, and the family expressed gratitude to Pleasant View for their care during his final years.

Michelle Marie Benson

Michelle Taylor Benson, 57, of Copley, died on July 2, 2025 while surrounded by her family. Complete obituary details and service information will be available on Sunday, July 6th. No additional personal details or funeral arrangements have been provided at this time. The brief announcement serves as a placeholder until the full obituary is published.

Roy J. Raber

Roy J. Raber, 61, of Cuyahoga Falls, passed away on June 30, 2025, leaving behind his wife Kathleen, his dog Buzz, his parents, and six siblings. He was a graduate of The University of Akron and Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science, and had worked for Blaze Technical Services, as a funeral director, and at Builders Square. Known for being consistent, humble, and dependable, Roy also had an adventurous side that included skydiving and salsa dancing. Services will be held at Redmon Funeral Home on July 7 and at The Chapel on July 8, followed by burial at Oakwood Cemetery.

Susan Anita Mullins

Susan Anita Mullins, known as "Mama," passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at age 76. She dedicated her life to caring for children, leaving a lasting impact through her compassion and nurturing spirit. Known for her open heart and generosity, Susan created a warm, welcoming home and found joy in gardening, baking, and holiday decorating. She is survived by her daughter Shannon and son Robert, along with numerous friends who became family, and will be remembered through private services with donations directed to various charities in lieu of flowers.

Peggy Ann Swain

Peggy Swain, 88, passed away on June 30, 2025, in Copley, Ohio after a life characterized by kindness and grace. Born in Akron in 1936, she married Larry Swain in 1959, raising their family in Copley while actively serving in her church and community. Her interests included reading, quilting, sports, and traveling, especially to Amish Country with her husband of 48 years who preceded her in death in 2007. Peggy is survived by her four children, nine grandchildren, and one great-grandson, with a memorial service scheduled for July 26, 2025, at Mt. Zwingli Church.

Gerald P. Wandel

Gerald P. Wandel, who passed away on June 30, 2025, in Akron, Ohio, was a devoted family man and skilled professional who spent most of his career at Goodyear Aerospace working on defense systems. Known as the "handiest guy in the world" with an extraordinary ability to fix anything, Gerald balanced his professional excellence with his passions for golf, camping, and outdoor adventures. He is survived by his wife Kaye, three children, grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter, while being preceded in death by his parents and son Doug. A Celebration of Life service will be held on July 18, 2025, at Grace Presbyterian Church in Hudson, Ohio.

James Lawrence Kolton

James Kolton from Akron, Ohio has passed away on June 29, 2025. His obituary is currently being written by his loved ones. Once completed, the obituary will be available for viewing at the same location as this notice. Those wishing to express condolences may send flowers through the provided floral store link.

James Edward McCartney

James Edward McCartney, 81, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. A devoted family man and educator, Jim enjoyed a 39-year career in education, ultimately retiring as principal of DeWitt Elementary School in 2005. He was passionate about his son Sean's coaching career and his grandchildren's sporting activities, and enjoyed golf, outdoor activities, and world travel with his wife Mindy. Jim is survived by his wife, son, daughter-in-law, two grandchildren, three siblings, and numerous in-laws, and will be remembered for his joy, laughter, and love.

Leala "Grace" Sturm

Leala "Grace" Sturm, 85, died peacefully on June 23, 2025, after battling Alzheimer's for over twelve years. Born in Canton, Ohio in 1939, Grace was deeply involved in her church, Forest Hill Community Christian Church, where she served in multiple roles including the nursery, choir, and as Ladies Guild President. She was dedicated to supporting her children and grandchildren, never missing their various sporting events and activities regardless of weather conditions. A devoted family member, Grace is survived by her husband of 67 years, Francis "Sonny," her four children, five grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren, with memorial donations requested to support three organizations meaningful to her instead of flowers.

Hilda June Flaker

Hilda "June" Flaker, 93, passed away on June 29, 2025, just days after her birthday. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Mike, and two sons-in-law. June is survived by her five children, twelve grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and her sister Virginia. A memorial service will be held on July 3, 2025, at Cox-McNulty Funeral Home in Barberton, Ohio, with calling hours beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Joan Marie Weist

Joan Marie Weist, born on November 20, 1937, in Akron, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 27, 2025, after living with Parkinson's Disease for 14 years. She dedicated her life to education and faith, working as a teacher and religious educator at Catholic schools until age 80, while also serving as an associate member of the Sisters of Charity. Joan was a loving wife to Bill, a devoted mother to four children, and a playful, patient grandmother to thirteen grandchildren who were "the center of her universe." Her legacy of faith, family devotion, and positive attitude will continue to inspire the many who loved her.

Dr. Joseph Mark Stewart

Dr. Joseph "Joe" Mark Stewart, a respected OB/GYN physician, passed away on June 23, 2025, at age 63 in Florida. After graduating medical school in 1989, he built a 32-year career in both Rockford, Illinois and Central Florida, where he was known for his surgical expertise, particularly in robotics. He is survived by his wife Shelly, three children with their spouses and grandchildren, and five siblings. Beyond medicine, Joe enjoyed home projects, travel, ocean activities, and had a great sense of humor, frequently quoting his favorite movies.