Good morning, Kent.

The Celebrate Portage committee is seeking nominations for its annual awards that honor events and projects from 2024.

Nominations are due by May 30 and winners will be recognized at the annual dinner on September 25.

Since UH Portage opened its new catheterization lab at the Rootstown hospital in April 2024, fewer Portage County residents have died from ischemic heart disease due to preventive programs begun in 2016—hospital officials say the lab and programs have helped lower death rates among older adults.

Idaho Smokehouse Partners, LLC recalled roughly 29,541 pounds of Chomps Original beef and turkey sticks sold at Costco in Ohio and 21 other states after consumers reported finding metal in the product — no injuries have been reported so far.

Kent State's men's basketball team played Loyola Chicago in the NIT quarterfinals on March 26 at 7 p.m. ET—Loyola's chaplain, Sister Jean, who turned 105 in September, became a national sensation during the team's 2018 tournament run.

Nine Portage County boys basketball players were named to the OPSMA all-state teams for Divisions IV through VII following Wednesday’s announcement.

Local seniors Carlos Bruton from Windham and Dekota Johnson from Crestwood earned second team honors — Bruton averaged 22 points and Johnson averaged 18.7 points.

Wood Block Printing Workshop

2-5 p.m. — FJKluth Art Gallery — Materials provided — Explore the art of woodcuts and printing techniques while creating your own designs.

Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group

2:30 p.m. — Kent Free Library — Free entry — Connect with others in a supportive environment as you share the challenges and rewards of caregiving.

13th Annual Black Squirrel 5K and 1-Mile Event

8-10 a.m. — Kent State University — Registration fee applies — Participate in a vibrant community race inspired by Kent State University's mascot.

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny and Friends

9:30-11 a.m. — Venue Banquet Center — Tickets required — Enjoy a delightful breakfast with the Easter Bunny, Mickey, and Minnie, plus fun activities for the family.

Kent Moxx Basketball 101

6:15-8:30 p.m. — Kent Parks and Recreation — Check event page for cost — Learn basketball fundamentals in a fun environment led by experienced coaches.

Martin Barre Acoustic Evening

Acoustic Performance — Evening — The Kent Stage — Tickets available — Experience a unique blend of music and storytelling with Martin Barre and friends.

Amelia White & Linda McRae Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Kent Stage — Reservations required — Experience an intimate and lively house concert with Amelia White and Linda McRae.

The Fixx Concert in Kent

6:30 PM – 12:30 AM — The Kent Stage — Ticket prices vary — Experience the innovative sounds of The Fixx, celebrated for their hits from the MTV era.

Carbon Leaf Concert

7:30-11:30 p.m. — The Kent Stage — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartfelt melodies and storytelling of Carbon Leaf's latest album amid a lively performance.

American Roots Music Festival

7 PM – 1 AM — The Loft — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant celebration of Bluegrass and Country music with performances for all tastes.