Good morning, Kent.

Janice Simmons-Mortimer, executive director of the Portage Foundation, was named a fellow in Leadership Ohio’s Class of 2026.

She was selected among 35 leaders from nearly 200 nominees statewide and will join monthly sessions addressing key community issues over the next year.

At its Feb. 16 meeting in Ravenna, the James A.

Garfield Historical Society invited local groups to a March 7 Open House and sought new board trustees to renovate its empty rental property (a board responsibility). Presenters also discussed the 'Cradle to the Grave' presentation and shared historic village photos.

Lettie Friona, a senior social studies major at Kent State, has grown her leadership through roles such as marketing director for Dress Up for Down Syndrome and social media coordinator for Ladies Lift.

She credits Kent State and her father's academic achievements with shaping her future.

Streetsboro Rockets' wrestling team earned second place at the MAC tournament at Woodridge High School and crowned four champions on Saturday; the team will begin its OHSAA Division II sectional tournament today at 9:30 a.m. at West Branch High School in Beloit.

High school wrestling sectionals start today with 18 tournaments across local high schools for Divisions I, II and III.

Returning team and individual champions will compete to qualify for district tournaments.

Akron and Kent State met last Friday at the Memorial Athletic and Convocation Center at 8 p.m. in their rivalry game, with Akron leading the all-time series (86–82) as key players featured, and the event was broadcast on ESPNU and local radio.

On Feb. 27, Streetsboro seniors Braden Hodge and Ethan Laryea led their team to a 37 to 34 win over Bay in the Division IV sectional final after a slow start.

PJ Robinson’s timely three-pointer helped seal the game as the Rockets extended their season.

First Thursday Cookie Social

10-11 a.m. — Fashion Library — Free — Enjoy sweet treats while discovering the resources of the Fashion Library.

Kent State Golden Flashes Women's Basketball vs. Western Michigan Broncos

1-3 p.m. — Kent State – College of Education, Health, and Human Services — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of college basketball with a rivalry showdown.

Albert Lee Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Kent Stage — Tickets available — Experience the triumphant return of legendary guitarist Albert Lee with his new album performances.

Midnight at the Masquerade: A Murder Mystery

5:30-8 p.m. — Kent State University Hotel & Conference Center — $75 per ticket — Unravel secrets and clues in a thrilling murder mystery setting.

Learn Mahjong

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Nauti Vine Winery — Fun event — Master Mahjong with friends while learning strategies in a relaxed atmosphere.

St. Patrick's Day Celebration at The Getaway Pub

7-11 p.m. — The Getaway Pub — No cover charge — Wear your green and enjoy live music from Chris Platis and Acid Raincoat while mingling with fellow social group members.

Bunnies and Brews

7-9:30 p.m. — Kent Student Center — $5 donation — Discover glowing eggs and enjoy an adults-only dessert reception with drinks in support of scholarships.

Seed Starting Workshop

3 PM — Bell Tower Brewing Co. — Ticket required — Learn sustainable farming practices and start your garden with herbs and tomatoes.