Good morning, Kent.

Snow Day 2026 is set to transform downtown Kent into a winter wonderland tomorrow, Jan.

24, as live music moves indoors and an ice carving demonstration relocates to Hometown Bank Plaza — changes made to ensure warmth and safety amid a frigid forecast.

Portage County District Library now offers ON THE LIST, an automatic holds service that places cardholders near the top of the waitlist for new adult books.

Residents can sign up online or in person at any branch.

As Winter Storm Fern brings bitter cold to the area, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends keeping thermostats at 68 degrees to avoid health risks while saving up to 10% on heating bills; residents in Kent may lower heat by 7 to 10 degrees for eight hours when away.

Viral social media posts warned that trees might 'explode' due to frost cracks during a major winter storm, but experts explain that although sap freezing can cause a loud crack and some branch damage, trees rarely burst in Ohio because temperatures are not expected to drop to 20°F below zero.

With frigid conditions expected this week, Ohio cold weather is reducing car battery power by slowing chemical reactions and thickening engine oil, making it harder to start your car.

Experts advise drivers to use batteries with high cold-cranking amps and keep a jump starter ready.

Townhall II Integrated Health Network has opened its call for sponsors for its spring fundraiser — Midnight at the Masquerade: A Murder Mystery — scheduled for Friday, Mar.

13 at the Kent State University Hotel and Conference Center with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. to support mental health and addiction services.

A Bowling Green State University poll commissioned by the Ohio AAP (Jan.

22) found 86% say routine vaccines are safe and 3 in 4 support mandates, with 89% trusting pediatricians for advice. The survey also noted less confidence in COVID-19 vaccines and strong backing for insurance covering all vaccines.

Crestwood Red Devil girls basketball beat West Geauga 48-45 on Saturday afternoon in Mantua, ending an eight-game losing streak and celebrating senior night for Katrina Richards and Becca Brady.

The team will host Norwayne on Jan. 26 at 6:45 p.m.

Local sports news notes the passing of Bobby (Sumthin') Smith, an Akron Zips standout and high school coach who died Wednesday, Jan.

21 in Randolph Township at age 79. He was celebrated for his spirited play and colorful coaching style.

Portage County schools including Garfield, Crestwood, and Ravenna will form an eight-team league that begins in the 2026-27 season.

Athletic directors plan to renew long-standing rivalries and build balanced competition — a move announced after years of planning following the disbandment of the Portage Trail Conference.

Ohio Bobcats vs Kent State Golden Flashes Basketball

7-9 p.m. — Kent State – College of Education, Health, and Human Services — Free T-shirts — Participate in Coaches Vs. Cancer Night with giveaways and engaging community support.

Free Lunch and Campus Safety Brainstorming Session

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Design Innovation Hub — Free lunch — Discuss and shape personal security tools for students over a free meal.

Chocolate Walk 2026

11 AM - 5 PM — Kent State University Hotel & Conference Center — Tickets from $40 — Indulge in a delightful stroll sampling chocolate treats and participating in exclusive VIP tastings.

Galentine's Bouquet Making Workshop

7-9 p.m. — Bell Tower Brewing Co. — Tickets required — Craft beautiful bouquets while enjoying drinks with friends at this fun floral workshop.

Thai Yoga Massage and Reiki Workshop

6-7:30 p.m. — SHINE Ohio — Limited spots available — Experience a relaxing journey with Thai Yoga Massage and Reiki in a cozy setting.

Tinsley Ellis Acoustic Concert

7:30 p.m. — The Kent Stage — Ticket prices vary — Experience the raw essence of blues with Tinsley Ellis' intimate acoustic performance featuring his new album 'Naked Truth'.

Kent State Women's Basketball vs. Northern Illinois

2-9 p.m. — Kent State – College of Education, Health, and Human Services — Ticket prices vary — Watch the Golden Flashes take on the Huskies in an exciting women's basketball matchup.